MG has signaled a major shift in its premium strategy by showcasing the IM LS9 at the Melbourne motor show. This large, extended-range electric SUV (EREV) represents the most luxurious offering yet under the “IM Presented by MG Motor” banner, marking a significant step in the brand’s attempt to move upmarket.
Bridging the Gap with Extended-Range Technology
While the IM brand in Australia has focused exclusively on pure electric vehicles (EVs) so far, the LS9 introduces a different approach: Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) technology.
Unlike a traditional hybrid, an EREV uses a small petrol engine solely as a generator to charge the battery, which then powers electric motors to drive the wheels. This technology is becoming a critical trend in the global EV market, as it offers a “best of both worlds” solution—the smooth, silent driving experience of an electric motor combined with the massive range and refueling convenience of petrol, effectively eliminating “range anxiety.”
Key technical specifications include:
– Powertrain: A 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol generator paired with an 800V electrical system.
– Battery Options: 52kWh or 66kWh capacities.
– Performance: A combined system output of 390kW and 670Nm.
– Range: An impressive estimated 1,500km (based on the CLTC cycle).
Massive Dimensions and High-End Luxury
The LS9 is a behemoth in terms of scale. Measuring 5,279mm in length, it is roughly 300mm longer than the Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series, making it the largest SUV MG has ever proposed for the Australian market.
Inside, the LS9 aims to compete with high-end luxury brands through a tech-heavy, opulent cabin. The interior features:
– Massive Displays: A 27.1-inch driver screen, a 15.6-inch passenger screen, and two 21.5-inch screens for rear passengers.
– Premium Comfort: Nappa leather upholstery, heated/ventilated/massaging front seats, and dual-chamber air suspension.
– Lifestyle Amenities: A 12.3-litre refrigerator (with heating), dual 50W wireless chargers, and a high-fidelity 21-speaker sound system (upgradable to 25 speakers by B&O).
Market Context: The Race for Premium Market Share
The introduction of the LS9 comes at a pivotal time for MG’s premium IM division. While MG is a household name, the IM sub-brand is still finding its footing in Australia.
Recent delivery data shows a competitive landscape:
– In early 2026, MG delivered 101 IM5s and 134 IM6s in the first three months.
– In comparison, the rival Zeekr 7X achieved 1,206 deliveries in the same period.
The LS9’s arrival suggests that MG is looking to capture a different segment of the market—those who want luxury and massive size but are not yet ready to commit to a purely plug-in lifestyle. By offering an EREV, MG is addressing a common barrier to EV adoption: the fear of being stranded on long trips.
The IM LS9 represents MG’s ambition to transition from a value-oriented brand to a serious contender in the luxury SUV segment by leveraging extended-range technology.
Conclusion
The IM LS9 is poised to be MG’s most ambitious flagship, combining massive dimensions with high-end luxury and the practical versatility of an extended-range powertrain. Its success will depend on whether its superior range and premium features can overcome the current momentum of established luxury EV competitors.
