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Geely KX21 flagship HEV crossover teased in China as Galaxy M9 sister model

3 min to read
Apr 16, 2026 10:22 AM CEST
Geely KX21 flagship HEV crossover teased in China as Galaxy M9 sister-model
The Geely KX21 is a sister model of the Galaxy M9. Image created by CarNewsChina

The Geely KX21 full-size crossover was teased in China as the flagship model in the brand’s new HEV line. It will offer a petrol-powered engine with a thermal efficiency of 48.41% and an e-motor for 230 kW (308 hp). The KX21 will enter the market this year as the top-of-the-line model.

On April 13, Geely released the i-HEV system. It is a hybrid powertrain that could not be charged externally. This system comprises an ICE, an electric motor, and a small battery. The HEV tech is gaining traction in China alongside the gradual phasing-out of government subsidies for the BEV, PHEV, and EREV segments. Previously, Chery, Changan, and GWM also revealed such powertrains.

More about Geely KX21

The Geely KX21 was teased at the i-HEV launch ceremony as a full-size crossover. Its front end adopts two headlights and a sizeable grille. The overall styling of the KX21 resembles the Geely Monjaro (Xingyue L) mid-size SUV. Other features of the KX21 are a LiDAR on the roof and conventional door handles.

The overall body shape of the KX21 aligns with the Geely Galaxy M9 plug-in hybrid SUV. These two cars have similar greenhouses. It seems that the KX21 will enter the Chinese market as the Galaxy M9’s sister model with the HEV powertrain. We will remind you that the M9 is a six-seat SUV with hefty dimensions of 5205/1999/1800 mm. The wheelbase is 3,030 mm.

The Geely Galaxy M9’s interior offers a 2+2+2 layout. It adopts a large 30-inch screen in the center console, a 17.3-inch ceiling-mounted screen, a 9.1-liter refrigerator, and 27 speakers. The car could be optionally equipped with air suspension. CarNewsChina expects the Geely KX21 to adopt the same equipment.

The new HEV flagship will most likely adopt the 2-liter BHE-series turbocharged petrol-powered engine. It boasts a thermal efficiency of 48.41%. This ICE is paired with the “11-in-1” electric drive with an integrated e-motor for 230 kW (308 hp). Cars with this combination can drive without turning on the engine at speeds below 66 km/h.

Geely domestic sales in China. Credit: China EV DataTracker

The Geely KX21 will broaden the brand’s domestic model line. At the same time, this HEV car can enter foreign markets as it will be suitable for regions with poorly developed charging infrastructure. We will highlight that the Geely brand (excluding Geely Galaxy) sold around 311,800 units in Q1 2026. Based on China EV DataTracker data, its domestic deliveries reached 234,291 cars, down 34,7% Year-Over-Year.

Geely
Geely KX21
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