Quick Reads
- This is Xiaomi’s first-ever hybrid car introduced under a new sub-brand called “SkyNomad”
- The 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine is used solely to recharge two electric motors, along with the 76 kWh battery pack
- Will be offered in both 5- and 7- seater configurations, with 180-degree swivel front seats
After introducing the Xiaomi SU7 sedan and Xiaomi YU7 SUV, Chinese tech giant Xiaomi is making its move to the hybrid vehicle market. The company has officially launched its N90 model under a new sub-brand called SkyNomad. Unlike its sports-inspired, aerodynamically efficient EVs that served as an introduction of Xiaomi to the automotive industry, the SkyNomad N90 is quite a departure from the former. It is a large, bulky SUV designed with passenger-orientated goals in mind.
Design and Dimensions
The SkyNomad N90 trades sleek curves for an upright, typical people mover silhouette. It is a significantly large vehicle, measuring 5,285 mm in length, 1,998 mm in width, and 1,825 mm in height. With a wheelbase stretching 3,080 mm and a kerb weight of 2.8 tonnes, it casts a larger shadow than many traditional full-size SUVs on the market.
The front fascia has a full-width light panel featuring T-shaped LED daytime running lights, a prominent central air intake, and the SkyNomad wordmark. A roof-mounted LiDAR sensor points to the inclusion of advanced driver-assistance systems. Moving to the sides, the SUV gets 21-inch alloy wheels, flush flap-type door handles, and a substantial rear overhang that maximises third-row space. The rear is dominated by a rectangular LED light bar and a standard roof spoiler.
Flexible Cabin Layout
The primary focus of the N90 is its highly configurable interior. Xiaomi offers the vehicle in both 5-seater and 7-seater configurations. The cabin is designed around a flat floor and a longitudinal rail system that runs the length of the passenger area.
In the 7-seat version, the second row features powered, reclining captain’s chairs with extendable ottomans. A distinct feature is the ability of the front seats to swivel 180 degrees to face the rear passengers. If buyers choose the 5-seat layout, even a coffee table can be mounted in the centre, turning the interior into a conversational space.
The dashboard maintains a minimalist approach, practically eliminating physical buttons. It relies on a large freestanding infotainment touchscreen, complemented by a dedicated entertainment screen for rear passengers and a dual-pane panoramic sunroof overhead.
Powertrain and Range
Under the skin, the N90 is built on Xiaomi’s new Kunlun Architecture. It is the brand’s first range-extender electric vehicle (EREV). The powertrain pairs a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with two electric motors. Crucially, the petrol engine does not drive the wheels directly; instead, it acts solely as an onboard generator to supply electricity to the motors and keep the battery topped up.
The dual-motor setup generates a combined output of 421 hp, allowing the heavy SUV to reach a governed top speed of 190 km/h. The vehicle comes with a 76 kWh NMC battery pack as standard, which allows for an all-electric range of up to 370 km (claimed). Once the battery is depleted, the petrol engine kicks in, but as a generator to extend the journey, carrying a rated fuel efficiency figure of 15.9 kmpl.
Our Take On The New Xiaomi PHEV
The Xiaomi SkyNomad N90 is a fascinating pivot for the tech giant. It is now targeting the very lucrative luxury family SUV market with a massive footprint, tech, and unique cabin equipment. The decision to use a range-extender (EREV) powertrain is a smart move for a heavy three-row SUV, as it completely removes range anxiety on long road trips.
However, the real draw here is the cabin. The swivelling front seats, flat floor, and configurable seating arrangements set the Xiaomi SUV apart.
