Smooth but Uninspiring Performance

Power comes from a 1.8-litre engine producing 97 bhp and an electric motor adding another 94 bhp. Together, they offer a combined 138 bhp and 142 Nm of torque. On paper, that sounds reasonable for an MPV. In practice, the Noah feels smooth and easy to drive at city speeds, but it runs out of breath quickly when pushed harder.

Even with just me in the car, it already felt sluggish when overtaking. With a full family load, I can imagine it feeling even more strained. To its credit, it remains composed and quiet during gentle cruising, which is likely what most owners will do anyway.

Noah’s Ark?

Inside, the Noah’s real strengths show. The layout is practical, featuring captain’s seats in the middle row and a bench in the third row, which allows six passengers to travel comfortably while accommodating up to seven. There are many compartments and cubby holes to store various items; the cabin feels airy and functional, and Toyota’s experience in making family-friendly interiors shines through here.

One neat feature is the easy-open kick function for the side doors. Just swing your foot under the sill, and the sliding doors open automatically. It’s a clever touch usually reserved for boot operation, and families juggling kids or groceries will appreciate it.

Toyota Practicality, With a Catch

The rear hatch is large, making loading big items straightforward. The problem comes when you try to do that in most Singapore carparks. The door swings out wide, and with no remote boot release, you’ll need some space to access it comfortably. It’s a minor but noticeable inconvenience.

Tech and Cabin Quality

Toyota’s infotainment system feels dated, both in design and responsiveness. The interface looks plain and lacks the slickness of newer systems from Korean or European rivals. The rear camera’s resolution is also poor, which doesn’t inspire much confidence when reversing in tight spaces.

The interior design feels slightly overstyled, with too many lines and surfaces competing for attention. It’s functional, yes, but not particularly elegant despite the nameplate.

Verdict – Reliable but Outdated

At around S$230,000, the Noah Hybrid is priced reasonably for its features and offerings. It delivers the usual Toyota strengths: dependability, comfort and good hybrid efficiency. It’s quiet on the move, and it should serve a family of six with ease. But in today’s crowded MPV segment, that might not be enough.

Rivals like the Nissan Serena offer more value, while newer EV MPVs provide fresher tech and stronger performance. The Noah feels like an older model trying to stay relevant in a fast-moving market.

For those loyal to the Toyota brand, this is a safe and sensible choice. For everyone else, it’s competent but uninspiring, a car that will do the job faithfully, but not much more.

Technical Specifications

Toyota Noah Hybrid 1.8 Elegance (A)

Engine: 1.8-litre inline 4
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive
Power: Combined 138 bhp
Torque: 142 Nm
Gearbox: E-CVT
0-100km/h: 13 seconds
Top Speed: 160 km/h
Fuel Tank Capacity: 52 litres 
Fuel Economy: 22.7 km/litre (claimed)
Price: S$229,800 with COE (accurate at the time of this article)

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Some cars ask to be driven. Some beg to be thrashed on the twistiest road you can find or launched pedal-to-the-metal on a de-restricted stretch of road. The XPeng X9, however, doesn’t make such demands. It simply opens its sliding doors and invites you in. Not to drive. To recline.

Because while most cars want you in the driver’s seat, this one insists you experience it from the back row.

A future-focused ride

The X9 is huge, and unapologetically proud of it. Park it next to a Range Rover or even a Bentley Bentayga, and it stands toe to toe.

From some angles, it looks less like a car and more like a Star Trek shuttle pod, especially with its smooth, creaseless bodywork and futuristic proportions.

But don’t mistake the X9’s sleek silhouette for cold minimalism. It’s a first-class cabin on wheels. Pull open the powered sliding doors and you’re greeted by what XPeng clearly considers its pièce de résistance: the second-row captain’s chairs. These thrones recline, massage, heat, cool, and extend leg supports like they’re trying to outdo First Class.

Nestled between them is a central fridge for your beverages, multiple USB-C ports, wireless chargers, and tray tables. A screen large enough to host a Zoom call with every relative in your family tree folds down from the ceiling, and with five-zone climate control, everyone gets their own little bubble of comfort.

In most MPVs, the third row is where grandparents go to reconsider their life choices. Not here. In the X9, the last row is genuinely usable. Adults fit comfortably, and when you don’t need the seats, they fold completely flat into the floor, revealing a cavernous 2,500-litre boot.

That’s the sort of space you get in a small removal van, not a luxury MPV. You could theoretically pack for a long-haul family road trip and still have room for impulse buys from every shopping mall between here and Thailand.

Driving? Optional, But Surprisingly Pleasant

Of course, one still has to drive the X9 from time to time. Power comes from a single front-mounted motor making 315hp, drawing energy from a substantial 101.5kWh battery. Official range stands at 590km (WLTP), giving you a realistic 500km of useable distance, more than enough for a weekly commute.

Despite its size, the X9 moves with surprising grace. It takes just 7.8 seconds to get to 100km/h, which is quick enough to make it to your child’s piano recital even after realising you’ve forgotten their scoresheets at home.

Thanks to rear-wheel steering, it turns like something half its size. The turning radius borders on the comical, like watching a sumo wrestler pirouette. Tight U-turns, carparks, and multi-storey ramps are no longer any concern.

And when it comes time to park, just press a button. The car will park itself, smoothly and silently, like it’s checking itself into a spa.

A true tech tsunami

XPeng is, at its heart, a tech company that just happens to build cars. And you feel that in every part of the X9. There are menus within menus, letting you tweak everything from steering weight to ride height to how much regen braking you want on your daily jaunt.

It’s all very clever. But it can also feel like ordering coffee and being asked whether you’d like your beans ground clockwise or anti-clockwise, and with or without a hint of optimism.

Take the air-conditioning, for instance. Adjusting vents via the touchscreen is about as intuitive as painting with chopsticks. A physical dial or switch would have sufficed.

Despite the minor UI quirks and the inevitable learning curve that comes with all this tech, the X9 is a remarkable achievement. It redefines the MPV as something aspirational, not just practical. A car that can shuttle seven in absolute serenity, while looking like it just rolled off a sci-fi film set.

Your lounge on wheels awaits

In the XPeng X9, you don’t drive. You arrive.

And when you do, you’ll step out fully massaged, perfectly temperate, with your phone charged, your coffee cooled (or warmed), and your sanity intact, even with a full family on board.

If this is what the future of people-movers looks like, count me in.

Technical Specifications

XPeng X9

Powertrain: Single Electric Motor, Front-Wheel Drive
Power: 235 kW (315 bhp)
Torque: 450 Nm
Gearbox: Single-Speed (A)
Acceleration: 7.8 Seconds (0-100km/h)
Top Speed: 200 km/h
Battery Capacity: 101.5 kWh
Drive Range: 590 km
Energy Consumption: N.A.
Price: S$355,999 with COE (accurate at the time of this article)

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

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We last reviewed the Maxus Mifa 7 earlier this year. Its practicality and sensible pricing were key attributes in its attractiveness, and now Maxus has introduced yet another cheaper variant. One that falls under Category A of the COE ladder.

But, is the reduction of power a dealbreaker for the practical family man navigating Singapore’s urban landscape?

Just Enough Power

This new variant keeps the spaciousness and plush features of its Cat B sibling but recalibrates its electric motor to 108kW. Crucially, torque figures (350Nm) remain the same, offering just enough power to keep up with traffic. You will feel its heft with a full load of passengers, but with a full posse in tow, you wouldn’t want to speed anyway.

The suspension is tuned for comfort, gliding smoothly over most surfaces. Third row  passengers will especially feel a difference, as the rear wheels are fitted with multi-link rods.

However, show it a road with more undulations or go over a sharp bump quickly, and you’ll feel a bit of bounce. That said, this is hardly a dealbreaker in an MPV designed for family comfort, not Nürburgring laps.

Still The Right Size

The MIFA 7 is pretty much the maximum size you would want an MPV to be before it starts getting annoying. It’s a better fit for our roads and parking structures compared to other rivals, being much easier to manoeuvre through tight HDB car parks and narrow streets.  

But don’t mistake “smaller” for “less commanding.” The MIFA 7’s design ensures it still holds its own on the road. Its 1.75m height also means it won’t be dwarfed by opposing SUVs either.

Spacious And Smart

Speaking of height, the MIFA 7 shows its true strength on the inside. There’s room for everyone; slide the second row forward a little, and you’ll find plenty of head and legroom for six adults. 

The third row is spacious enough to accommodate an adolescent or two in comfort, and the seats feels just right in terms of width and height. For those needing extra help, grab handles and a wide step make entering the second row easier. 

Even with all seats up, the rear boot offers 270 litres of usable space, enough for groceries, school bags, or a baby stroller.

For the elderly or young children, the MIFA 7’s low 152mm ground clearance also makes getting in and out a breeze. The large sliding doors are an instant advantage over compact MPVs in this segment.

The Practical Choice

The Maxus MIFA 7 finds its niche in offering a balanced, value-packed MPV experience. It’s neither too large nor too cramped, with just the right amount of practicality for Singapore’s roads.  

There really isn’t another vehicle like this on the market now (at the time of writing). Coupled with its attractive pricing, you wouldn’t need to shop elsewhere too. 

Technical Specifications

Maxus MIFA 7 (108kW)

Engine: Single Electric Motor
Powertrain: Front-Wheel Drive
Power: 108kW (145bhp)
Torque: 350Nm
Gearbox: Single-Speed (A) Reduction Gear
0-100km/h: Unknown
Top Speed: 170 km/h
Battery Capacity: 90 kWh
Drive Range: 480 km (claimed)
Energy Consumption: 4.88 km/kWh (claimed)

Price: S$208,999 (Luxury), S$213,999 (Premium), both with COE (accurate at the time of this article)

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

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Some cars beg to be flung around a winding mountain pass, while others all but demand a full-throttle run down an unrestricted stretch of road. The XPeng X9, however, plays a different tune altogether.

The moment I laid eyes on it, my instinct wasn’t to grab the wheel, but to slide into the back and sink into one of the sumptuous captain’s chairs. Because when an MPV is this luxurious, the true experience starts in the rear cabin, where comfort reigns supreme.

You don’t need a membership to hop aboard

The XPeng X9 is enormous. At 5.3 metres long and a full two metres wide, it’s less MPV and more rolling condominium. Park it next to a Bentley Bentayga, and it might just eclipse it.

With its clean panels and slightly alien silhouette, the X9 looks more like a monolith from a sci-fi film than something you’d ferry the kids to school in.

Open the power-sliding doors and you’re greeted by thrones. The second row is the real show here: plush captain’s chairs that recline, massage, heat, and ventilate on command.

Your calves rest on powered leg supports. Your devices charge silently via wireless pads. Your mid-journey coffee stays chilled (or warmed) in a proper, functioning fridge between the front seats. No one here is roughing it.

There’s a rear screen the size of a studio apartment window, multiple USB ports, fold-out tray tables, and five-zone climate control. Yes, five. Each occupant gets their own weather forecast.

The third row isn’t an afterthought either. Adults fit comfortably. And when not in use, those seats disappear into the floor, revealing over 2,500 litres of cargo space. That’s enough room for a whole holiday’s worth of suitcases.

How does she roll?

XPeng is a tech company first, and that DNA is baked into every pixel and panel. The X9 feels less like a car designed by engineers and more like a gadget conceived by a team of over-caffeinated software developers who just discovered luxury travel.

Power comes from a front-mounted motor with 320 horsepower, fed by a sizeable 101.5kWh battery. Official range is between 500 to 590km, though most buyers will care more about how chilled their bubble tea is than their WLTP stats.

Still, 0-100km/h in 7.8 seconds is no slouch for something this size. Handy when you’re late for your child’s piano recital across town.

Rear-wheel steering gives the X9 a U-turn radius that defies physics. The steering is light, the ride supple, and the sheer ease with which it manoeuvres makes lesser MPVs feel like cruise ships.

And when it is time to park this leviathan, press a button, and it parks itself. Smoothly, silently, with all the precision of a valet at The Ritz.

Of course, with all this tech comes the inevitable side effects. The car is very customisable. You can adjust steering weight, brake feel, accelerator response, ride height, and regenerative braking, each with multiple levels.

It’s impressive. It’s excessive. It’s a bit like ordering coffee and being asked whether you’d like your beans ground anti-clockwise or with a hint of optimism. Some people like it, but I suspect most people won’t bother going through the hassle.

Then there’s the air-conditioning interface. Adjusting the vents via touchscreen feels like trying to thread a needle in zero gravity. The team responsible may need to rethink their UI priorities.

A rolling statement

Still, these are quibbles.

The X9 is an experience after all. A rolling statement that family motoring doesn’t have to mean compromise. It redefines the MPV as something aspirational, desirable, and cool.

So, if you’ve ever dreamed of a living room that takes the school run in stride and does it with more tech than your actual living quaters, the X9 is it. It’s sci-fi luxury for the real world, complete with its own fridge.

Technical Specifications

XPeng X9

Powertrain: Single Electric Motor, Front-Wheel Drive
Power: 235 kW (315 bhp)
Torque: 450 Nm
Gearbox: Single-Speed (A)
Acceleration: 7.8 Seconds (0-100km/h)
Top Speed: 200 km/h
Battery Capacity: 101.5 kWh
Drive Range: 590 km
Energy Consumption: N.A.
Price: S$340,999 with COE (accurate at the time of this article)

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

Read more automotive news at AutoApp, or check out our latest videos on YouTube and on TikTok!

An electric seven-seater that can out-accelerate other cars while massaging your back and chilling your drink? That’s a billionaire’s fever dream. Yet, here we are, with a near-5.2 metre behemoth from a brand that barely existed five years ago, making a surprisingly convincing pitch for your dollar.

So, is the Zeekr 009 all sizzle and no steak? Or is it quietly rewriting the MPV rulebook while you were busy comparing SUV ground clearances?

Who, or What, is Zeekr?

Zeekr (a blend of ‘Gen Z’ and ‘geek’, apparently) is Geely’s upmarket EV sub-brand, the Chinese auto giant that owns Volvo, Polestar, Lotus, and even a slice of Smart.

Since launching in late 2021, Zeekr has aimed squarely at the “premium electric mobility” segment, and the 009 is its most audacious attempt yet. The name might not roll off the tongue like 007, but once you’ve spent time in the 009, you’ll find yourself whispering it with unexpected affection.

The Spaceship Has Landed

In the metal, the 009 is massive, longer than a Toyota Alphard and broader than most things not classified as commercial vehicles. If it had wings, Changi Airport might mistake it for a regional jet. With a 3.2m wheelbase and 20-inch “Starlight” wheels, this is not a car you park discreetly.

The front fascia is a dazzling mix of LED claws and a silver-slat grille, which thankfully avoids the chrome overdose of its Chinese-market siblings. The profile is dominated by giant power-sliding doors and equally enormous windows, while the rear is conventional, albeit dressed with a light show.

It’s a design that demands attention, though whether it’s admiration or bewilderment you receive depends on your audience. Fellow motoring journalists, for instance, reacted like children shown a real spaceship.

All Aboard the Lounge on Wheels

Step inside and the Zeekr wastes no time making its case. This is the top-of-the-range Flagship variant, dripping in Nappa leather, suede, and soft-touch surfaces.

The best seat in the house is undoubtedly the second-row captain’s chairs. Heated, cooled, massaging, power-reclining, and paired with footrests, they’re the automotive equivalent of a La-Z-Boy.

Tap “First Class Mode”, and the seats recline to nearly 45 degrees, leg-rests rise, and a 17-inch screen drops down from the ceiling like a Netflix portal from heaven. There’s even a fridge hidden in the centre console for your drinks, because of course there is.

Boot space with all seats up is 574 litres. Fold the third row and you’ll free up more, though the floor ends up uneven, and it does limit how far the second row can recline.

The third-row seats themselves are manual and best reserved for kids or short jaunts.

Tech Overload? Almost.

At the heart of the dash sits a 15-inch 2.5K OLED touchscreen that’s responsive, sharp, and packed with more functions than some smartphones. You can open sliding doors, adjust seat massage settings, tweak the panoramic roof, or even launch a game of Candy Blast.

Add to that wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, 5G connectivity, OTA updates, an AR head-up display the size of your forearm, and eight USB-C ports, four of which are for the second row alone, and you start to feel like you’re in a rolling Apple store.

Credit has to be given to the 30-speaker Yamaha sound system too. It’s not the brightest or best sounding (though it does come pretty darn close), but what it trumps the competition in is immersion. You feel like you’re actually listening to a concert live on stage, with the crowds behind cheering on.

If sound is one of the top things you look out for when buying a car, Zeekr and Yamaha have got it absolutely nailed down.

But, while there’s plenty of clever tech, things like manual window blinds and the lack of tray tables on lower trims feel like oversights in an otherwise opulent experience.

Driver Still Matters

Now, you’re probably wondering, who’s actually driving this thing? In most cases, a chauffeur. But for those curious enough to take the wheel themselves, despite weighing nearly three tonnes, the Zeekr 009 surges from 0–100km/h in just 4.5 seconds. That’s thanks to a dual-motor setup with 450kW and 693Nm on tap.

It’s hilariously fast, not in a pinned-to-your-seat kind of way, but in that surreal “Did a house just zoom past me?” sense.

On the move, the air suspension and electromagnetic damping deliver a pillowy, wafting ride, although it can be a little too soft at times, especially over multiple sharp speed bumps. Leave it in Normal mode and everything feels refined, unhurried, and whisper quiet, exactly what you want in an electric luxury MPV.

Handling is surprisingly tidy. There’s a tight turning circle, decent body control, and driver aids that behave like they’ve been tuned by adults. The steering lacks feel, and the brakes are a bit grabby, but unless you’re planning to smoke other motorists on the road, you’ll be fine.

Range is officially rated at 582km WLTP, thanks to a massive 116kWh battery. But real-world figures suggest closer to 480–500km, especially if you’re hauling passengers and blasting the aircon.

Charging from 10–80% takes about 30 minutes at a fast enough DC fast charger, but if you’re stuck with a 50kW unit, expect a long lunch… and maybe dinner.

So, Who’s It For?

The Zeekr 009 isn’t for everyone. It’s not practical in the way a Kia Carnival is, and it doesn’t carry the badge appeal of a Lexus LM or a Mercedes-Benz EQV. But at just over SGD$400,000 with COE, it undercuts both while offering more tech, more pace, and arguably more luxury.

Luxury hotels, premium limo services, or families who’ve outgrown their SUVs but still want to travel in style, this is your spaceship. It’s quirky, indulgent, and oddly desirable.

The biggest hurdle? The badge. Zeekr is new. And resale value is, at this point, a mystery. But as a statement of intent, as proof that Chinese EVs can now rival the best in comfort, performance and design, the 009 is a thunderous mic drop.

And yes, because of Yamaha, I sorely want one.

Technical Specifications

Zeekr 009

Powertrain: Dual Electric Motors, All-Wheel Drive
Power: 450 kW (603 bhp)
Torque: 693 Nm
Gearbox: Single-Speed (A)
Acceleration: 4.5 Seconds (0-100km/h)
Top Speed: 210 km/h
Battery Capacity: 116 kWh
Drive Range: 582 km
Energy Consumption: 4.5 km/kWh (claimed)
Price: S$412,999 with COE (accurate at the time of this article)

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

Read more automotive news at AutoApp, or check out our latest videos on YouTube and on TikTok!

If you do not drive one, your neighbour probably does. Or you probably sat in one the last time you booked a Grab ride.

The Freed’s appeal has always been remarkably straightforward. It is compact, efficient, ridiculously practical, and does not try to be anything it is not. In many ways, that is exactly why it works so well.

So, when Honda launched this new generation Freed Hybrid, there was no need for drastic reinvention. Instead, the focus was on refinement, efficiency, and a little extra charm, all while staying true to the formula that has made the Freed a favourite.  

Fulfilling A Boxy Purpose  

No one buys an MPV for its styling, and Honda knows it. That is why, instead of trying to hide its shape, the new Honda Freed Hybrid fully embraces its boxiness.  

In profile, it looks like a well-rounded Tupperware on wheels, with proportions that scream practicality first, everything else second. But that doesn’t mean the designers didn’t try.

The headlights flank a blacked-out glossy strip across the front, and the taillights have a stacked cube pattern embedded within. Small quirks, but it gives the car some charm.

The cabin is the same story. Honda’s designers have done a fantastic job balancing cost-conscious practicality with usability. The dashboard layout is clean, symmetrical, and pleasantly minimalistic. Most importantly, Honda has resisted the temptation to digitise everything.

The driver’s display is a huge step up from before, with a vibrant, easy-to-read digital display taken from the Honda Jazz Crosstar that proves you do not need massive screens to feel modern.  

Physical buttons are still present and accounted for, including proper dials for temperature and fan speed. The controls are precisely laid out, with excellent tactile feedback, making them effortless to use while driving.  

The Freed’s Greatest Strengths  

If there is one thing the Freed has always done better than most, it is maximising space. This new model continues to lead its segment in passenger comfort and versatility.  

The powered sliding doors make ingress and egress effortless, especially for elderly passengers or young children. The second-row seats retain their 60:40 split, meaning the middle passenger gets a properly moulded seat, rather than a half-hearted excuse of a cushion.  

The third row remains easy to access, thanks to the tumble-forward seats.

While legroom and shoulder room are adequate, headroom is where the Freed excels. Even taller passengers will find plenty of space above, making it one of the most comfortable small MPVs on the market.

Storage is another strong suit. There are spaces in every nook and cranny of this car, and there are USB-C charging ports integrated into the front seats, so second-row passengers never have to fight for a charging cable.  

Surprisingly Engaging Too

If there was one major weakness in the previous-generation Freed, it was the drivetrain. It was functional, but in a segment full of hybrids and turbocharged alternatives, outdated.  

Power now comes from a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine, paired with two electric motors, producing 130bhp and 253Nm of instant torque from a standstill. The instant torque from the electric motors gives the Freed a sense of urgency that its predecessor simply did not have.  

Accelerating from a standstill feels effortless even with a full posse of passengers, and when cruising at expressway speeds, the hybrid system works seamlessly in the background, providing electric assistance whenever needed.

Honda’s e-CVT transmission has been significantly improved. Even under hard acceleration, it never feels too loud or strained, making long drives far more comfortable.  

The suspension setup is soft enough to absorb bumps effortlessly, but firm enough to maintain composure even with a full load. The steering is light but not overly vague, making it easy to manoeuvre in tight spaces.

While it is not designed for spirited driving, it handles corners with confidence, resisting body roll better than expected for an MPV of this size.  

Braking is another strong point. The brake pedal is weighted nicely, providing smooth and predictable stopping power.

For those new to MPVs, the Freed is incredibly easy to drive. And with Honda Sensing driver-assist features, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, highway driving is effortless and stress-free.  

Honda claims 19.6km/litre for efficiency, and in real-world conditions, the Freed exceeded that. That translates to a range of over 800km on a full tank.

The MPV That Just Works

The Honda Freed has always been one of the most practical, sensible, and universally appealing MPVs on the market. This new model takes everything that made it great, refines the details, and adds modern efficiency into the mix.  

It is charming without being flashy, spacious without being bulky, and efficient without sacrificing usability.

It may not be the flashiest car on the road, but for the vast majority of buyers, that is precisely why it works so well.  

Technical Specifications

Honda Freed Hybrid

Engine: 1,498cc in-line 4 i-VTEC, Turbocharged
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
Power: 130bhp (combined)
Torque: 253Nm
Gearbox: E-CVT (A)
0-100km/h: Unknown
Fuel Economy: 19.6km/litre (claimed)

Price: S$158,999 (HS7) / S$164,999 (HE7) with COE (accurate at the time of this article)
Contact: Kah Motor

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

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How Does ACOTY Define This Class?

Only MPVs are eligible for this award, and both candidates showcased below were previously victorious in their respective Round 1 categories.

Seven contestants witted down to two, and now we are about to crown the overall MPV champion.

Meet The Contenders

Kia Carnival

The Kia Carnival triumphed over the Toyota Vellfire, Lexus LM and Nissan Serena Alfa to be crowned Best Cat B MPV.

With its new hybrid platform, the new Kia Carnival is a spacious and practical winner in our hearts.

Denza D9

The Denza D9 locked horns and won against the MG M9 and Opel Combo-e Life to win Best MPV EV.

BYD has made sure that the Denza’s first impressions were on point, and it truly delivered on all fronts.

So who won?

For transparency sake, price isn’t the only factor in deciding an eventual winner. The winner has to be desirable, a good all-rounder, and above all else, worth its market value.

Where the points tally in Round 1 was the final determinant of each category’s winner, here in Round 2, points are taken into consideration but are not the final arbiter of victory.

AutoApp Car Of The Year Overall Best MPV
Denza D9

And our overall winner is the Denza D9! Even after testing both variants of the D9, we were blown away by its impressive suite of features, build quality, and performance.

In a market increasingly receptive to new luxury brands, the Denza D9 is poised to carve out its niche, and this is why we felt it was deserving of this coveted award.

More on the scoring categories used to derive points in Round 1 here.

Congratulations to the Denza D9 for winning the AutoApp Car of the Year 2025 Overall Best MPV!

Read more automotive news at AutoApp, or check out our latest videos on Ignition Labs TV and on TikTok!

How Does ACOTY Define This Class?

Every Multipurpose Vehicle (MPV) that qualifies for this category needs to be powered and propelled solely by electricity from battery packs and sold with a Category B Certificate of Entitlement (Cat B COE). Easy peasy.

Meet The Contenders

Representing the UK is the MG M9 (left), flying China’s flag is the Denza D9 Grandeur (right), and championing Germany is the Opel Combo e-Life.

The MG M9 is capacious and comfortably seats seven. It’s loaded with features and creature comforts, tech is pretty good, and is practical to the hilt. Despite it’s huge size, the M9 looks sharp from the front and rear. It’s silent, brisk and rides very smoothly.

The Denza D9 Grandeur is BYD’s answer to premium MPVs. It looks bold on the outside, sumptuously appointed with upmarket looking and feeling materials on the inside, and tech is well integrated. Lots of features and creature comforts abound for occupants to play with as the D9 glides along in almost eerie silence and soaks up undulations along the way.

The Opel Combo e-Life prefers to keep things simple, down to earth and practical. Its got an airy ambience on the inside, hard-wearing materials that will likely stand up to abuse from the young’uns, and sufficient tech to get things done but not get in the way. It rides smooth, relaxed and silent, and will keep your clan happy on the obligatory family outings.

Three came, but there’s one clear winner.

AutoApp Car Of The Year Best Cat B Single Motor SUV EV
Denza D9 Grandeur

The Denza D9 Grandeur takes the W with 423 points. Despite being BYD’s first foray into the premium segment, the D9 knocks it out of the park. The way ‘upmarket’ is executed here is just brilliant, and it showed with the final decision being unanimous.

More on the scoring categories used to derive points here.

Congratulations to the Denza D9 Grandeur for winning the AutoApp Car of the Year 2025 Best Cat B MPV EV!

Read more automotive news at AutoApp, or check out our latest videos on Ignition Labs TV and on TikTok!

How Does ACOTY Define This Class?

Each contender must be a Multi-purpose Vehicle (MPV), also known as ‘minivan’ in North America, and sold with a Category B Certificate of Entitlement (Cat B COE). Pretty straightforward.

Meet The Contenders

Clockwise from top left are the Kia Carnival, Lexus LM, Nissan Serena and Toyota Vellfire.

The Kia Carnival looks futuristic and aggressive simultaneously. With lots of tech and creature comforts on the inside, packaging and ergonomics that are well thought out, loads of practicality and comfort and pretty good fuel economy for a vehicle it’s size, the Carnival is a great package for the family.

The Lexus LM comes into this competition with its luxury credentials ablaze. For those that demand the highest quality while moving six people, the LM goes to town with captain’s chairs and creature comforts that aim to soothe Sir or Ma’am in the middle row, sufficient but understated customization that follows the Japanese style of opulence, and ride comfort that rivals much more expensive brands.

The Nissan Serena e-Power needs no introduction because it’s relatively common sight on our roads – for good reason.

Practicality, check. Packaging, check. Spaciousness, check. It hits all the essentials on the bullseye while offering good comfort, sufficient tech integration and a unique powertrain that’s a stepping-stone to EV-dom without the accompanying range anxiety.

Want a more sporty-looking yet understated MPV? The Toyota Vellfire is right up your alley in this case. With lots of space, practicality, ride comfort and Japanese sophistication, the Vellfire lets you move the family while sipping petrol with Toyota’s famed hybrid powertrain.

Four minivans that mean business, but only one can be crowned king.

AutoApp Car Of The Year Best Cat B SUV
Kia Carnival

The winner with 413 points is the Kia Carnival. The South Koreans sure know how to offer a lot of vehicle for the money, and the Carnival represents a fantastic value proposition in this group.

More on the scoring categories used to derive points here.

Congratulations to the Kia Carnival for winning the AutoApp Car of the Year 2025 Best Cat B SUV!

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Denza is a relatively new marque, originating from a former partnership between BYD and Mercedes-Benz. Positioned as BYD’s premium arm, Denza aims to deliver vehicles that blend luxury and cutting-edge technology.

The Denza D9, which officially launched in Singapore back in October 2024, is poised to attract buyers seeking an alternative to conventional luxury MPVs such as the Toyota Alphard.

BYD has already established itself as a dominant force in Singapore’s electric vehicle (EV) market, leading sales charts and demonstrating a strong understanding of the local consumer’s appetite for EVs.

Building on this momentum, the Denza D9 seeks to provide discerning buyers with a spacious and technologically advanced MPV.  

Presence And Proportions

The Denza D9 is an imposing vehicle, stretching over 5.2 metres in length and nearly two metres in height.

Its dimensions give it a commanding presence on the road, while design elements such as vertical daytime running lights and a chrome-heavy grille lend it a distinctive aesthetic.

Despite its size, the D9 remains practical for urban environments, with a height that fits comfortably into most carparks.  

With A Focus On Comfort And Technology 

The interior of the Denza D9 exemplifies modern luxury. The driver’s area is equipped with a digital instrument cluster, a 15.6-inch infotainment display, and a head-up display.

Additionally, voice control functionality and a range of convenience features enhance the overall driving experience.

However, the true focus of the Denza D9 is its rear passenger space.

The middle-row seats offer a Business Class-level experience, with features such as ventilation, heating, and individual touchscreens for climate and entertainment controls.

High-quality materials, including Nappa leather, real wood accents and a 6.9 litre fridge elevate the cabin’s ambience.

Even the third row is designed to accommodate three adults comfortably, with sufficient legroom and dedicated air vents.

Passengers in all rows benefit from multiple USB-C ports, ensuring device connectivity throughout the journey.

The D9 also offers 410 litres of boot space, even with all seats in use.

Nimble On Its Feet Too

Available in two variants, this Elite front-wheel drive model features a single electric motor delivering 230kW and 360Nm of torque, propelling it from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.5 seconds.  

With nearly 2.9 tonnes of mass to haul, putting that much torque through the front wheels comes with some noticeable wheelspin if you’re too heavy on the throttle.

But let’s be clear: outright speed isn’t the D9’s raison d’être. This MPV was built for comfort, and it excels in that department.

Despite lacking Denza’s advanced DiSus-C intelligent damping system, the Elite variant still delivers a plush ride. It handles potholes and road imperfections with ease, offering a smooth experience for its occupants.

Although, on bumpier stretches or when navigating speed humps, the D9’s long wheelbase and soft suspension occasionally introduce some vertical motion.  

However, considering its size and weight, the D9 handles admirably. It’s not only comfortable but surprisingly composed, ensuring that even the pickiest rear-seat passengers remain at ease.

At higher speeds, the cabin remains impressively quiet. At 80 km/h, road and wind noise are virtually nonexistent, creating a cocoon of serenity for those seeking a peaceful journey.  

The D9’s technological features further enhance the driving experience. Its panoramic imaging system and 360-degree cameras make navigating tight spaces a breeze. The “see-through” parking view, which offers a virtual look beneath the car, is a particularly clever touch.

What About Range? 

The Denza D9 comes equipped with a hefty 103.36 kWh battery, offering a quoted range of 520km. In real-world conditions, I managed a solid 460 km, a commendable figure for a vehicle of this size and weight.  

Charging is efficient, too, with a maximum DC fast-charging rate of 166kW. However, let’s face it: most D9 owners won’t be the ones standing by the charger, as this MPV is designed with a chauffeured lifestyle in mind.  

Should You Go Grandeur?  

For those considering the Grandeur variant, which includes all-wheel drive and additional luxury features, it’s undoubtedly an enticing upgrade.

But for most, the Elite trim offers more than enough to serve as a luxurious and capable family vehicle.

Luxury Meets Value  

Priced at $290,888 for the Elite FWD model, the D9 undercuts competitors like the Toyota Alphard, which currently sits at $399,888.

For its price, the D9 offers an impressive suite of features, build quality, and performance. Compared to other Chinese MPVs such as the MIFA 9 and MG 9, the D9’s premium offering justifies its position as a more upscale option. 

In a market increasingly receptive to new luxury brands, the Denza D9 is poised to carve out its niche. It’s not just a practical family vehicle but a rolling sanctuary for executives and those seeking a premium experience.  

Technical Specifications

Denza D9 Elite 

Powertrain: Single Electric Motor, Front-Wheel Drive
Power: 230 kW (308 bhp)
Torque: 360 Nm
Gearbox: Single-Speed (A)
0-100km/h: 9.5 seconds (claimed)
Top Speed: 160 km/h
Battery Capacity: 103.36 kWh
Drive Range: 520 km (claimed)
Energy Consumption: 4.5 km/kWh (claimed)

Price: S$290,888 with COE (accurate at the time of this article)
Contact: Denza Singapore

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

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