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SAIC Maxus MIFA 9 Specifications & Features
Looking back, it’s clear that the minivan emerged as a logical stride for the American auto sector in the early 1980s. With families expanding and trips to burgeoning theme parks becoming more extensive. The need arose for a vehicle capable of accommodating larger groups than the erstwhile favorite, the station wagon with rear seat cushions. Fast forward, and China has embarked on a similar chapter of automotive progression, albeit with an electric thrust. Enter the SAIC Maxus MIFA 9. A three-row EV minivan that seamlessly merges expansive interior capacity, remarkable equipment tiers, and a front-end aesthetic evoking thoughts of the iconic Star Wars bounty hunter, Boba Fett.
What’s New?
Maxus stands as a prominent commercial brand within SAIC Motor, formerly recognized as Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation, China’s largest automaker. Rooted in a legacy, the Maxus name traces its origins back to a once-thriving U.K. van manufacturer. Whose rights were acquired by SAIC some time ago. The MIFA acronym unfolds as “Maximum Intelligent Friendly Artistic,” embodying a blend of attributes. Sitting on the shared platform with the gasoline-powered Maxus G90. The MIFA 9 electric vehicle shines with a distinctive, more refined design, amplified features, and a weightier price point. Setting it apart in elegance and functionality.
SAIC Maxus MIFA 9 Motor, Battery & Range
The MIFA concept car debuted at the 2021 Shanghai auto show, and now, the production model boasts a sole 241-horsepower motor propelling the front wheels. This power stems from a battery pack, touting a substantial 90-kWh capacity. Impressively, it’s projected to cover approximately 275 miles according to Europe’s favorably rated WLTP test cycle. Engaging the accelerator with a gentle touch initiates nearly seamless acceleration. While a firmer press may trigger slight wheelspin on the front tires. Halting the Maxus is equally inconspicuous, with its seamless integration of regenerative and friction braking mechanisms.
Although the Maxus doesn’t boast the swift acceleration typical of electric vehicles—with an official 0-62 mph time of 9.2 seconds. It excels in providing a serene and comfortable cruising experience at an indicated 80 mph. Of course, this assumes the driver has taken the necessary step of deactivating the overly sensitive lane-keeping assistant along with its rather loud warning chimes. While the top speed is electronically capped at 112 mph, aiming for that would likely sacrifice the impressive cruising range. Interestingly, there are separate and switchable Sports modes designed for both the accelerator and steering maps. Though it’s challenging to identify any car with less need for these features. Regrettably, in the case of the steering, this only adds unnecessary weight without substantial benefits.
SAIC Maxus MIFA 9 Dimensions & Space
| SAIC Maxus MIFA 9 Dimensions | |
| Length | 207.48 in |
| Width | 78.74 in |
| Height | 72.44 in |
| Wheelbase | 125.98 in |
| Cargo Volume | 16.4 ft3 |
| Airbags | 8 Airbags |
The second row offers exceptional legroom, though it’s worth noting that extending it requires adjusting the front seats forward. If you’re looking to recline fully. Keep in mind that doing so will naturally encroach upon the already constrained area available to passengers in the third row. Furthermore, the third-row seats can’t be folded down completely to expand the cargo room. Although the backrests have the flexibility to collapse, the battery’s positioning prevents the bases from being stowed. Thus maintaining their fixed placement.
Pricing
| SAIC Maxus MIFA 9 Trims | Price (USD) |
| Elite | $63,400 |
| Luxury | $69,800 |
| Premium | $74,100 |
The MIFA 9 stands as a testament to its substantial and high-quality construction, a fact underscored by its corresponding price. In the German market, the base model commences at 57,974 euros prior to taxes, which translates to around $63,400 at current exchange rates. Opting for the Luxury variant introduces power-adjustable rear seats at a price of $69,800, while the top-tier Premium edition, priced at $74,100, not only offers motorized leg rests but also incorporates various other specification enhancements. This pricing places the MIFA 9 in close competition with the more lavish iterations of the electric long-wheelbase Mercedes-Benz EQV, which stands as a prominent alternative within this market segment.
Specifications, Quarter Mile, 0-60 Mph & Top-Speed
| SAIC Maxus MIFA 9 Specifications | Specs |
| Motor | permanent magnet synchronous AC |
| Drivetrain | FWD |
| Horsepower | 241 hp |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft |
| 0-60 MPH | 9.2 sec |
| 0-100 MPH | NA |
| 1/4 Mile | NA |
| Top-Speed | 112 mph |