Zeekr, the premium brand under Geely Auto, is reportedly exploring the development of a rugged off-road SUV aimed at competing with the Mercedes-Benz G-Class. The project is still in its early stages, with design and technical details yet to be finalized.
Early Stage Development for Zeekr’s Off-Road SUV
According to a report from Auto Time, Zeekr has approached several suppliers to discuss requirements for a new boxy SUV, which is being referred to as Zeekr’s proposed Mercedes-Benz G-Class rival. The project is currently at the supplier-matching stage and has not yet received formal approval or an internal codename.
People familiar with the matter estimate that the vehicle could enter mass production between 2028 and 2029, though this is not an official timeline from Zeekr. The design of the SUV remains undecided, with considerations reportedly including unibody or semi-unibody construction, independently controlled electric drive systems, air suspension travel, and intelligent recovery technology.
Expanding Zeekr’s Luxury Lineup
If developed, the new off-road SUV would join Zeekr’s existing range of urban SUVs, MPVs, and sedans. The current SUV lineup in China includes the Zeekr 9X, Zeekr 8X, Zeekr 7X, and Zeekr X. Zeekr also offers the 009 MPV and MIX van, but has yet to launch a dedicated rugged off-road model.
Other models in Zeekr’s portfolio include the 001 shooting brake, 007 sedan, 007 GT shooting brake, as well as derivatives like the 001 FR and 009 Grand series.
Recent Milestones for Zeekr
Zeekr’s flagship 9X hybrid SUV continues to help the brand reach higher price points. As of October 21, cumulative deliveries of the Zeekr 9X had exceeded 85,000 units, with an average transaction price of more than $79,515 (~AUD 113,539).
On July 28, Zeekr expanded its 9X lineup by launching a 5-seat version, adding to the original 6-seat configuration to better meet the needs of luxury SUV buyers.
Delivery Performance in 2026
In October, Zeekr delivered 32,483 vehicles, marking a 51.63% increase year-on-year but a 12.72% decrease from September. This ended a streak of six consecutive monthly delivery records.
For the first ten months of 2026, Zeekr delivered a total of 320,887 vehicles, representing a 94.45% increase compared to the same period last year.
Why this matters
Zeekr’s reported move into the rugged off-road SUV segment signals its ambition to compete at the highest end of the luxury market, traditionally dominated by models like the Mercedes-Benz G-Class. If realized, this project could further diversify Zeekr’s portfolio and attract new buyers seeking both luxury and off-road capability.
The brand’s recent sales growth and expansion of its SUV lineup demonstrate Zeekr’s increasing presence in the premium segment, making its next steps in product development closely watched by industry observers.
What this means for buyers
Buyers interested in luxury off-road vehicles should keep an eye on Zeekr’s future announcements, as the proposed SUV is still several years from potential production. Those considering a Zeekr today can choose from a growing range of SUVs, MPVs, and sedans, with the 9X offering both 5-seat and 6-seat options for different needs.
Key Specs
- Brand: Zeekr (Geely Auto HKEX: 0175)
- Proposed Segment: Rugged off-road luxury SUV
- Potential Competitor: Mercedes-Benz G-Class
- Estimated Production Start: 2028–2029 (not officially confirmed)
- Current SUV Lineup: Zeekr 9X, 8X, 7X, X
- Zeekr 9X Cumulative Deliveries: 85,000+ units as of October 21, 2026
- Average Zeekr 9X Transaction Price: $79,515 (~AUD 113,539)
- 2026 Deliveries (Jan–Oct): 320,887 vehicles
Images sourced from: electrive
