Luxury MPV? Yes. Hybrid technology? Absolutely. Plugging in? Not necessary.

GWM Malaysia has officially opened bookings for the new Wey G9 Hi4 HEV, bringing its premium MPV experience to buyers who prefer to simply refuel and drive.

And the timing couldn't be better. With the existing Wey G9 PHEV approaching 2,000 deliveries nationwide, according to GWM, the new HEV could give even more Malaysians a reason to consider the brand's luxury MPV.

A Different Hybrid, But Still Plenty Of Power

While both Wey G9 variants carry the Hi4 badge, their hybrid systems take different approaches. The new HEV features a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, paired with a four-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT), two electric motors and a 1.67 kWh hybrid battery.

Together, the system produces 358 PS and 782 Nm of torque, substantial figures for a premium MPV designed to transport families and passengers in comfort.

GWM's Hi4 (Hybrid Intelligent 4WD) technology is designed to combine four-wheel-drive capability with hybrid efficiency, balancing performance and energy use according to driving conditions.

However, GWM has yet to disclose the HEV's official fuel-consumption figures, so it remains to be seen how efficiently the new powertrain performs in everyday Malaysian driving.

Luxury Without Having To Plug In

Perhaps the biggest selling point of the Wey G9 HEV isn't its power output. It's the convenience. Unlike the PHEV, the HEV doesn't require external charging. Its smaller hybrid battery works alongside the petrol engine and electric motors, allowing drivers to enjoy hybrid assistance without connecting the vehicle to a charger.

There's no need to arrange external charging sessions around daily journeys.

Of course, that doesn't mean the PHEV is inconvenient. For owners who can charge regularly, its larger battery and electric-driving capability offer a different set of advantages.

The HEV simply provides another option for buyers whose circumstances don't suit a plug-in vehicle.

What About The First Class Experience?

GWM has built much of the Wey G9's Malaysian positioning around its First Class for All philosophy.

The existing Wey G9 is known for its spacious three-row cabin and premium appointments, with GWM highlighting features such as Nappa leather seating, active noise cancellation, a premium sound system and intelligent driver assistance technologies.

The company says the new HEV continues the same emphasis on driving comfort, refinement and safety.

Wey G9 HEV vs PHEV: Which Makes More Sense?

The existing Wey G9 Hi4 PHEV was launched in Malaysia at RM269,800, offering a larger battery and the ability to drive using externally charged electricity.

The new HEV takes a different ownership approach, relying on its petrol-electric hybrid system without requiring external charging.

HEV specifications: GWM Malaysia, 12 October 2026. PHEV figures and pricing refer to the existing Malaysian model.

Which Wey G9 Suits You?

Ultimately, the better choice depends on your driving patterns, charging access and budget.

Could The Wey G9 HEV Be The More Affordable Option?

That's arguably the biggest unanswered question. The existing Wey G9 PHEV is priced at RM269,800, but GWM Malaysia has not revealed how much the new HEV will cost.

Given its considerably smaller battery, some buyers may expect the HEV to be positioned below the PHEV.

However, a smaller battery doesn't automatically guarantee a lower selling price. The HEV uses a different engine and hybrid transmission, while its final equipment package remains unconfirmed. 

Until GWM announces official pricing, any suggestion that the HEV will be cheaper remains speculation. Still, its eventual price could play a major role in determining how attractive it becomes to Malaysian buyers.

Bookings Now Open In Malaysia

Bookings for the GWM Wey G9 Hi4 HEV are officially open at authorised GWM dealerships nationwide. The company has confirmed that pricing and full specifications will be announced closer to its official market introduction.

The expansion also follows an encouraging start for the model, with the Wey G9 previously recording 800 bookings within its first week.

Rather than expecting every buyer to embrace plug-in charging, GWM is offering two approaches to hybrid ownership within the same premium MPV family.

And for Malaysians who want luxury MPV comfort without adding charging to their daily routine, the Wey G9 HEV could be worth keeping an eye on.

The real question now is whether GWM can make its pricing just as appealing as its no-plug convenience.