Edmunds Says Chinese SUV Galaxy M9 Threatens US Automakers

The automotive review site Edmunds recently completed a series of rigorous evaluations on a vehicle from China, concluding that manufacturers in the United States should be concerned about the rising quality of overseas competition. Editor-in-Chief Alistair Weaver noted that while Chinese vehicles are currently restricted from the American market, their combination of affordability and advanced features is drawing significant consumer interest.

Edmunds tested the Galaxy M9, an extended-range hybrid SUV manufactured by Geely Automobile Holdings Lt. The vehicle starts at approximately $25,000 in its domestic market and was subjected to range, acceleration, and braking tests at a track in Los Angeles. Weaver emphasized the high level of integration and performance observed during the trials.

"The technology is terrific."

Market data from Cox Automotive indicates that American consumers are becoming more open to Chinese brands, which are currently hindered by tariffs reaching 100% and political opposition. Some buyers have reportedly explored acquiring these models through Mexico or Canada, where trade barriers differ. Despite the interest, Geely representatives stated that the M9 remains focused on the Chinese market for now.

"Geely continuously evaluates global markets, but our current commercial focus for the Galaxy M9 remains on China."

The three-row SUV was compared to established models like the Palisade from HYUNDAI MOTOR CO, the Telluride by KIA CORP, or the Grand Highlander from TOYOTA MOTOR CORP. Edmunds noted that even if the M9's price were doubled to account for import costs, it would still represent a competitive alternative to these established rivals.

Inside the cabin, the M9 features a 30-inch infotainment screen that Edmunds found to be as responsive as the interfaces provided by TESLA INC. The vehicle also includes luxury-oriented additions such as a built-in refrigerator and secondary entertainment screens. Its hybrid system, which uses a gasoline engine as a generator to charge the battery, provides an estimated 808 miles of total driving range. This technology is similar to systems planned for the U.S. market by FORD MOTOR CO and STELLANTIS NV.

Industry analysts believe the pressure of a highly competitive domestic market has forced Chinese firms to innovate rapidly. Tu Le of Sino Auto Insights suggested that blocking these products entirely could eventually frustrate global consumers looking for value.

"We are seeing some of the most innovative products at the lowest prices, and consumers around the world are benefiting."