The electric people mover segment in Australia just witnessed a seismic shift in value. Zeekr, the premium electric sub-brand of Geely, has officially expanded its local lineup with the 2026 Zeekr 009 FWD (Front-Wheel Drive).

While “value” is a relative term in the six-figure luxury segment, the headline news is undeniable: this new entry-level variant slashes a massive $20,000 off the starting price compared to the existing All-Wheel Drive (AWD) model. Now starting from $115,900 plus on-road costs, the Zeekr 009 FWD doesn’t just bring the price down; it actually boosts the driving range to a segment-leading 604km (WLTP).

For affluent Australian families waiting for a luxury electric hauler that can genuinely handle interstate road trips without constant charging anxiety, the 2026 Zeekr 009 FWD might just be the most compelling option on the market.

💰 The Price Cut: What Do You Get for $115,900?

The introduction of the FWD variant is a strategic masterstroke. Previously, the Zeekr 009 was an AWD-only affair starting at $135,900, placing it firmly in niche luxury territory. The new $115,900 price point positions it aggressively against its primary rival, the LDV Mifa 9 Executive, and significantly undercuts the luxury benchmark, the Lexus LM.

So, what do you lose for saving $20,000? Surprisingly little that matters for the average school run or family holiday.

• Drivetrain: You swap the blistering dual-motor AWD setup for a sensible single-motor FWD configuration.
• Performance: The 0-100km/h sprint drops from a supercar-like 4.5 seconds to a still-respectable 7.9 seconds.
• Wheels: You roll on slightly smaller 19-inch alloy wheels, which arguably offer better ride comfort on Australian roads than the 20-inchers on the AWD.

Crucially, you keep the same massive battery and the lion’s share of the ultra-luxury interior features. This isn’t a “stripped-out” base model; it’s a smarter configuration for the family driver.

🔋 The Range King: 604km of Freedom

The most exciting specification for Australian buyers is the range. By deleting the rear motor and reducing weight, the 2026 Zeekr 009 FWD squeezes more efficiency out of its colossal 116kWh NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt) battery.

• Official Range: 604km (WLTP). This is an increase over the AWD’s 582km, making it one of the longest-range 7-seaters available in Australia.
• Real-World Impact: For a family in Melbourne, this means a trip to Warrnambool or Albury on a single charge is genuinely feasible. For Sydney families, a run to the Hunter Valley or Canberra becomes a non-event.

When you do need to stop, the Zeekr 009 is ready. It supports 205kW DC fast charging, capable of replenishing the battery from 10% to 80% in just 30 minutes. That’s barely enough time for a bathroom break and a round of coffees for the family before you’re ready for another 400km of highway driving.

🛋️ Inside the “Private Jet on Wheels”

Zeekr describes the 009 as a “private jet for the road,” and the interior specs back this up. Even in this new “entry-level” FWD grade, the cabin is unapologetically opulent.

The FWD model comes exclusively in a 7-seat configuration (2+2+3), which is the preferred layout for most families.

• First Class Comfort: The second row features captain’s chairs that are heated, ventilated, and powered. While you miss out on the active air suspension of the AWD, the ride is tuned for supreme comfort.
• Tech Overload: The dashboard is dominated by a 15.05-inch 2.5K OLED touchscreen and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. For the driver, there’s a massive 35.95-inch Augmented Reality Head-Up Display (AR-HUD).
• Rear Entertainment: Keeping the kids pacified is a 17-inch 3K OLED ceiling-mounted screen, ready to stream content on the go.
• The “Concert Hall”: A standard 30-speaker Yamaha surround sound system ensures that whether it’s The Wiggles or a true crime podcast, the audio quality is crystal clear.

Additional luxuries like Nappa leather upholstery, a 50W wireless phone charger, and a comprehensive suite of driver assists (including a 360-degree camera and automated parking) remain standard.

🥊 The Competitive Landscape

The 2026 Zeekr 009 FWD lands in a fascinating spot in the Australian market.

1. Vs. LDV Mifa 9: The LDV has been the default electric people mover, but the top-spec Mifa 9 Luxe ($130k+) is actually more expensive than this new Zeekr. The entry Mifa 9 Mode is cheaper (~$106k), but lacks the range, power, and sheer polish of the Zeekr.
2. Vs. Kia Carnival: A top-spec Kia Carnival Platinum Diesel sits around $75k-$80k. The Zeekr asks for a $35k premium. For that, you get zero emissions, vastly superior performance (250kW vs 148kW), and a level of interior tech the Kia simply cannot match.
3. Vs. Volkswagen ID. Buzz: The incoming long-wheelbase ID. Buzz is the style icon, but the Zeekr 009 offers a larger battery and a more traditional luxury limousine feel compared to the VW’s retro-fun vibe.

🏁 Verdict: The Smartest Buy in the Range

The arrival of the 2026 Zeekr 009 FWD is a game-changer for the brand in Australia. While the AWD model was an impressive halo product, its price and unnecessary performance limited its appeal.

This new FWD variant strips away the vanity metrics (0-100km/h times) and doubles down on what actually matters to families: Range, Comfort, and Value.

Saving $20,000 while gaining 22km of range is a trade-off any sensible buyer would take. At $115,900, the Zeekr 009 is no longer just a niche curiosity; it is now a serious, highly competitive option for premium family transport, setting a new benchmark for luxury utility in the electric age.

About EV Evolution

EV Evolution is the leading online platform dedicated to Australian electric vehicle owners and enthusiasts. We foster a vibrant community, delivering essential EV news and insights, and enhancing user engagement through our innovative, AI-powered chatbot for dynamic discussions. Our mission is to empower Australian electric vehicle owners and enthusiasts by fostering a vibrant, AI-driven online community that connects, informs, and advances the nation’s electric vehicle landscape.