Dec

AITO 9 Spotted in UAE: Flagship SUV Launch Expected in Early 2026

The luxury-SUV scene in the UAE may be about to welcome a new contender. The AITO 9: the flagship SUV from rising Chinese EV brand AITO, has reportedly been spotted in the UAE ahead of a planned early 2026 launch. The move signals the brand’s ambition to enter the Gulf luxury SUV market, offering a feature-rich alternative to established players.

Table of Contents

What We Know About the AITO 9

Here is what you need to know.

Performance & Powertrain

The AITO 9 is built on an AWD “REV/REEV” (range-extended EV / hybrid) platform, giving it flexibility for both electric and long-range driving needs.
It delivers a strong 365 kW of power and 675 Nm torque.
Acceleration is reported at 0–100 km/h in 4.9 seconds, making it among the quicker SUVs in its class.
A 52 kWh battery provides a pure EV range of around 225 km (WLTP), while the total “combined” range (with fuel + battery) reaches over 1,200 km, a major plus for long-distance trips and regional travel.

Size & Practicality

Dimensions: about 5,230 mm long, 1,999 mm wide, and 1,800 mm tall, generous size that matches many premium SUVs on the market.
Seating layout: 5-seat standard, with options depending on variant, offering flexibility for families or couples.
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive, which is useful for UAE roads, highways, and occasional off-road or desert-road conditions.

Luxury, Comfort & Tech Inside

The AITO 9 aims high when it comes to interior quality and features:

Rich cabin materials including premium upholstery and attention to finish.
Advanced infotainment and comfort systems: large panoramic screens, luxury seating, and hi-tech amenities, designed for a premium ownership experience.
Safety and driving assistance: comprehensive suite likely to include active safety features, helping assure buyers looking for both comfort and secure driving.

What AITO 9 Means for UAE Buyers (And For the Market)

The arrival of the AITO 9 in the UAE could shake up the luxury SUV segment in a few key ways:

Tech-forward luxury from a rising brand: AITO combines modern EV/hybrid tech with Chinese innovation, offering a different kind of value compared with traditional European and Japanese SUVs.
Extended range + flexibility: The hybrid/REEV setup gives buyers a viable choice for both city commuting (on electric) and long-distance or desert travel, ideally suited for Gulf driving needs.
Competitive alternative: For buyers seeking luxury features, AWD capability, and modern design, but at a potentially more accessible price point, AITO 9 might offer better value compared with premium SUVs from mainstream luxury brands.
Boost for EV adoption: A flagship like the AITO 9 helps strengthen the case for electrified and hybrid SUVs in the UAE and signals the growing maturity of EV-hybrid technology in the region.

What’s Next: Launch, Expectations & What to Watch For

The AITO 9 is expected to launch in the UAE in early 2026. The recent sighting suggests local testing and fine-tuning, an indication that AITO is prioritising GCC climate and market conditions before full release.
Local distributors and AITO partners may soon reveal trim levels, pricing, and warranty/after-sales details, key for buyers to assess value.
Watch for pre-launch previews, test-drive opportunities, and configuration announcements across Dubai and other Emirates.

Drive UAE’s Outlook

The AITO 9 represents a bold move from a relatively new automaker aiming for global relevance. For UAE buyers, it introduces a fresh option, combining hybrid power, AWD versatility, modern tech, and luxury comfort. If delivery and after-sales support match the promises, it could become one of the most interesting alternatives to consider in the SUV segment by 2026.

We’ll keep monitoring AITO’s progress closely and bring updates as the launch approaches. Stay tuned to Drive UAE for full coverage, from showroom reveal to first deliveries.