Previously, I shared information about upcoming domestic sedans and MPVs set to launch in 2026, but the SUV market is even more exciting. Current leaks suggest a wave of new models is on the horizon, with none of them being easy rivals in terms of design, space, or tech features. It’s clear that next year’s SUV market will be vibrant and fiercely competitive, offering consumers more choices than ever. If you’re considering buying an SUV next year, here are eight models worth checking out first.

BYD Sealion 08

New Car Highlights: Flagship SUV

BYD’s Ocean Network has officially announced its new flagship SUV, the Sealion 08, set to debut in the first quarter of 2026. The vehicle adopts the design language of the Ocean-S concept car, featuring a sleek and elegant body proportion. As a flagship model, it is expected to incorporate cutting-edge technologies such as megawatt flash charging and long-range capabilities, making it highly anticipated.

Geely Galaxy M7

New Car Highlights: Five-Seat Plug-in Hybrid SUV

Following the Galaxy M9, Geely has also filed for the Galaxy M7. Its design is similar to the Galaxy M9, with a strong new energy (new energy) aesthetic, featuring a closed front grille paired with a through-type (continuous) light strip and chrome accents on both sides. The side profile includes traditional door handles. In terms of dimensions, the Galaxy M7 measures 4,770mm in length with a 2,785mm wheelbase, offering a five-seat layout that is well-suited for family use. Powertrain-wise, it will be equipped with a 1.5-liter plug-in hybrid system, offering pure electric ranges of 101km and 155km (WLTC).

Leapmotor D19

New Car Highlights: Flagship SUV

The interior of the Leapmotor D19 has been revealed, showcasing impressive configurations. Notable features include second-row zero-gravity seats, dual Qualcomm 8797 chips, Nappa leather, a 21.4-inch rear entertainment screen, and dual-chamber air suspension. In terms of size, the vehicle is massive, exceeding 5.2 meters in length and 3.1 meters in wheelbase, with five-, six-, and seven-seat layouts available. Leapmotor is known for offering high value for money, and if this flagship model is priced reasonably, it has strong potential to become a bestseller.

Xiaomi YU9

New Car Highlights: Large Size

Information about the Xiaomi YU9 has leaked, suggesting it will be positioned as a flagship six-seat SUV with a length potentially exceeding 5.2 meters. It is expected to feature an extended-range powertrain with dual motors, offering a pure electric range exceeding 300km. With Xiaomi entering the flagship SUV segment, do you think it can succeed?

Zeekr 8X

New Car Highlights: High Performance

Spy shots of the Zeekr 8X have surfaced, revealing its ultimate (ultimate) performance in design and configuration. Built on the SEA-S luxury electric hybrid architecture, its top variant is expected to feature the same tri-motor megawatt powertrain as the Zeekr 9X, achieving zero-to-100km/h acceleration in around three seconds. It will also retain a dual-chamber closed air suspension system paired with CCD continuously variable damping shock absorbers. The design is sporty, featuring a waterfall-style grille. Inside, it boasts a large central touchscreen, and the central console area includes two handrails for better grip during dynamic driving.

Lotus For Me

New Car Highlights: Lotus’s First Plug-in Hybrid SUV

The For Me will be Lotus’s first plug-in hybrid SUV, featuring a dual-motor plug-in hybrid system. Its design exudes a sporty sports car (sports car) aesthetic, continue (carrying on) the styling of the ELETRE, with a striking front grille and bumper. In terms of size, the vehicle measures 5,103mm in length with a 3,019mm wheelbase. Powertrain-wise, it will be equipped with a 2.0-liter plug-in hybrid engine delivering a maximum power of 205kW, offering a CLTC pure electric range of 420km, which is quite impressive.

Chery Fengyun T9L

New Car Highlights: Large Five-Seat Midsize SUV

Chery’s new SUV in the Fengyun series, the T9L, has been filed for launch. Positioned as a large five-seat midsize SUV, it is expected to hit the market in the first quarter of 2026. Its design is tech-oriented, featuring a closed front grille and sharp headlight modeling (styling). The interior will include a large central touchscreen, with some variants offering a rear-seat entertainment screen. Powertrain-wise, it will be equipped with the Kunpeng Super Electric Hybrid C-DM system, featuring a 1.5-liter plug-in hybrid engine delivering a maximum power of 115kW, with pure electric ranges of 101km and 170km available.

Wuling Xingguang L

New Car Highlights: Mid-to-Large SUV

The Wuling Xingguang L is expected to continue Wuling’s reputation for affordability, likely priced around the 120,000 yuan mark. Despite its budget-friendly price, it is no small vehicle, measuring 4,980mm in length with a 2,950mm wheelbase, firmly placing it in the mid-to-large SUV category. It will offer five- and six-seat configurations. Powertrain-wise, it will feature a plug-in hybrid system with 1.5-liter and 1.5-liter turbo engine options. This adds another affordable, spacious plug-in hybrid SUV to the market.

In Conclusion

The new models mentioned above are all domestic SUVs set to launch next year, each representing a major release with top-tier tech and features. The competition in next year’s SUV market will be fiercer than ever. Which model do you think has the best chance of becoming a bestseller? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!