Forthing V9 Guardian 2026 Review: Chinese Cars Ultra-Luxury MPV Tested

Forthing V9 Guardian 2026 Review: Chinese Cars Ultra-Luxury MPV Tested

The Forthing V9 Guardian represents the pinnacle of Dongfeng's premium MPV ambitions, arriving in the UAE as the flagship of the Chinese cars invasion into the luxury people-mover segment. Priced at 189,900 AED, it directly challenges established players like the Toyota Alphard and Kia Carnival while bringing plug-in hybrid technology and a 1,300 km combined range that traditional ICE rivals simply cannot match. As Chinese cars continue their aggressive expansion across the GCC, the V9 Guardian stands out with its 41-inch triple-screen infotainment system, Nappa leather interior, and executive-grade second-row seating that rivals anything from Japan or Korea. This review examines whether the V9 Guardian truly delivers ultra-luxury substance or merely premium aesthetics.

Updated August 2026. Data verified against manufacturer specifications and Cartea UAE market data.

Quick Overview

Forthing V9 Guardian at a Glance

Price: 189,900 AED | Body Style: 7-Seater Luxury MPV

The Forthing V9 Guardian is the range-topping variant of the V9 MPV family, designed from the ground up as an ultra-luxury people mover that blends plug-in hybrid efficiency with executive-class comfort. At 189,900 AED, it sits at the top of the Forthing lineup in the UAE and represents the brand's most ambitious effort to date. The 1.5TD turbocharged PHEV system combines a petrol engine with electric motors to deliver a combined range of 1,300 km, making it one of the longest-range MPVs available in the region regardless of origin.

What sets the Guardian apart from the standard V9 PHEV is its focus on luxury appointments. The cabin features Nappa leather on all seating surfaces, a 41-inch triple-screen infotainment array that stretches across the entire dashboard, and second-row captain's chairs that offer heating, ventilation, and multi-mode massage functions. The 19-inch wheels are fitted with premium touring tires tuned for ride comfort, and the suspension has been specifically calibrated for the smooth, quiet ride that luxury MPV buyers expect.

In the context of Chinese cars entering the UAE market, the V9 Guardian is a statement piece. It demonstrates that manufacturers like Dongfeng can produce vehicles that compete on luxury and technology, not just on price. The 5-year / 150,000 km warranty provides peace of mind for buyers concerned about long-term reliability, and the PHEV powertrain offers genuine fuel savings for daily commuting while retaining the flexibility of petrol power for long-distance travel across the Emirates.

Key Highlights

• 1.5TD PHEV powertrain delivering 1,300 km combined range
• 41-inch triple-screen infotainment spanning the full dashboard
• Executive second-row captain's chairs with massage, heating, and ventilation
• 19-inch alloy wheels with luxury touring tires
• Nappa leather upholstery throughout all three rows
• 5-year / 150,000 km comprehensive warranty package
• Ambient lighting system with 64 colour options

Best For: Families and executives wanting limousine-grade comfort with PHEV efficiency

Performance & Powertrain

The V9 Guardian's 1.5TD PHEV powertrain is the heart of its appeal. The turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine works in concert with electric motors to deliver smooth, linear power delivery that suits the luxury MPV character perfectly. Unlike performance-oriented vehicles, the V9 Guardian prioritises refinement over outright acceleration, with the electric motors providing instant torque for effortless city driving and the petrol engine seamlessly taking over for highway cruising. The combined range of 1,300 km is exceptional and means UAE owners can drive from Abu Dhabi to Dubai and back multiple times without visiting a fuel station, provided they charge the battery regularly. The PHEV system allows for pure electric driving over shorter distances, which is ideal for school runs, shopping trips, and daily commutes. Transition between electric and petrol modes is virtually imperceptible, and the regenerative braking system captures energy during deceleration to maximise efficiency. The suspension is tuned for comfort rather than sportiness, absorbing road imperfections with the composure expected of a vehicle in this price bracket. Wind and road noise are well-suppressed thanks to acoustic glass and extensive sound deadening, creating a serene cabin environment that rivals far more expensive luxury vehicles.

Interior & Comfort

Step inside the V9 Guardian and the first thing that commands attention is the 41-inch triple-screen infotainment array. This panoramic display spans the full width of the dashboard and combines the driver's instrument cluster, the central infotainment screen, and the front passenger's entertainment display into one continuous visual surface. The resolution is crisp, the interface is responsive, and the sheer scale of the display creates an immediate impression of technological sophistication. The Nappa leather upholstery covers all three rows of seating, and the quality of the hide is genuinely impressive for a vehicle at this price point. The second-row captain's chairs are the centrepiece of the cabin, offering heating, ventilation, and multiple massage modes. They recline significantly and include adjustable headrests, fold-out leg rests, and dedicated climate controls. The third row is surprisingly accommodating for adults, with adequate headroom and legroom for shorter journeys. Ambient lighting with 64 colour options allows owners to customise the cabin atmosphere, and the panoramic sunroof floods the interior with natural light. Storage is abundant, with large door bins, a deep centre console, and numerous cup holders distributed throughout all three rows. The overall material quality, fit, and finish are a significant step up from what we have come to expect from Chinese cars in previous years.

Technology & Infotainment

The technology package in the V9 Guardian is extensive and ambitious. The 41-inch triple-screen system runs a custom Android-based operating system that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though many users will find the native navigation and media apps more than adequate. Voice control is available in multiple languages including Arabic and English, and the system can control virtually every vehicle function from climate to seat massage. A premium audio system with multiple speakers strategically placed throughout the cabin delivers rich, immersive sound quality. The digital rearview mirror uses a camera feed to provide an unobstructed view behind the vehicle, which is particularly useful given the MPV's size. A 360-degree camera system with 3D view makes parking and manoeuvring in tight UAE parking spaces straightforward. The Guardian also includes over-the-air update capability, meaning the infotainment system and vehicle software can be improved over time without visiting a dealership. Wireless phone charging is standard, as are multiple USB-C ports distributed across all rows. The head-up display projects key information onto the windscreen, allowing the driver to keep their eyes on the road. For rear passengers, dedicated entertainment screens and wireless headphones transform long journeys into first-class travel experiences.

Safety & Driver Assistance

Safety is a critical consideration for any family-oriented MPV, and the V9 Guardian comes well-equipped in this department. The vehicle features a comprehensive airbag system covering all three rows, including side curtain airbags that extend to the third row. Advanced driver assistance systems include adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, lane departure warning with lane keeping assist, autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and a driver attention monitor that detects signs of fatigue. The 360-degree camera system provides a bird's-eye view for parking and low-speed manoeuvring, and front and rear parking sensors offer additional assistance. Automatic high-beam control and traffic sign recognition are also included. The body structure uses high-strength steel in critical areas to provide robust crash protection, and the vehicle has been engineered to meet global safety standards. ISOFIX child seat anchorages are provided on the second-row seats, and the doors feature child locks with electronic override. For a Chinese car entering the UAE market, the safety equipment level is competitive with established Japanese and Korean rivals and exceeds what many European brands offer at similar price points.

Practicality & Boot Space

As a 7-seater luxury MPV, practicality is fundamental to the V9 Guardian's purpose. The rear doors are power-operated sliding doors on both sides, which is essential for family use in tight parking situations. The tailgate is also power-operated with hands-free opening via a foot sensor under the rear bumper. With all seven seats in use, boot space is modest but adequate for groceries and small bags, and folding the third row expands the cargo area significantly. The second-row seats can also be folded (though not removed) to create a vast load space when maximum cargo capacity is needed. Cabin storage is generous, with large door bins, a cooled glovebox, a deep centre console with armrest storage, and multiple cup holders across all rows. The cabin features multiple 12V power outlets and USB-C charging ports, ensuring all passengers can keep their devices charged on long journeys. The PHEV powertrain can be charged at home or at public charging stations, and the fuel tank is sized to support the 1,300 km combined range. Ground clearance is adequate for UAE roads and speed bumps, and the turning circle is manageable for a vehicle of this size. The ride height provides good visibility, and the large windows offer excellent all-round visibility for the driver.

Ownership Costs & Warranty

The V9 Guardian comes with a 5-year / 150,000 km comprehensive warranty, which is competitive for the segment and provides significant peace of mind for buyers new to the Forthing brand. The PHEV battery is covered under a separate warranty, and Dongfeng's growing dealer network in the UAE means servicing and parts availability should not be a major concern. Running costs are a key advantage of the PHEV powertrain: when regularly charged, the V9 Guardian can cover daily commutes on electricity alone, dramatically reducing fuel bills. Even on longer journeys using petrol power, the hybrid system's efficiency means fuel consumption is significantly lower than a conventional ICE MPV of similar size. Insurance costs should be moderate given the vehicle's safety equipment and market positioning. Depreciation is the biggest question mark for any Chinese car in the UAE, though the V9 Guardian's unique positioning as a PHEV luxury MPV with no direct rivals at this price may help it retain value better than mainstream Chinese SUVs. Service intervals are recommended every 10,000 km or 12 months, and Dongfeng offers prepaid service packages that can reduce maintenance costs over the ownership period.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Exceptional 1,300 km combined range eliminates range anxiety entirely
• 41-inch triple-screen infotainment is class-leading in scale and functionality
• Executive second-row captain's chairs with massage rival vehicles costing twice as much
• Nappa leather throughout and 64-colour ambient lighting create genuine luxury ambiance
• PHEV system offers significant fuel savings for daily commuting
• 5-year / 150,000 km warranty provides long-term peace of mind

Cons

• At 189,900 AED, it is the most expensive Forthing and approaches established luxury MPV territory
• Brand recognition and resale value remain unproven in the UAE market
• Pure electric range is limited compared to dedicated EVs
• Vehicle dimensions make it challenging to park in older UAE developments

Full Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the Forthing V9 Guardian in the UAE?

The Forthing V9 Guardian is priced at 189,900 AED in the UAE. This positions it as the flagship of the Forthing lineup and makes it a direct competitor to luxury MPVs like the Toyota Alphard, though with the significant advantage of plug-in hybrid technology and a 1,300 km combined range.

How far can the V9 Guardian travel on a full charge and tank?

The V9 Guardian delivers a combined range of 1,300 km when both the battery and fuel tank are full. This is achieved through the 1.5TD PHEV powertrain, which combines electric-only driving for shorter trips with petrol power for longer journeys. The pure electric range is suitable for daily city commuting, while the petrol engine extends range for inter-emirate travel.

What warranty does the Forthing V9 Guardian come with?

The V9 Guardian is backed by a 5-year / 150,000 km comprehensive warranty. The PHEV battery pack is covered under a separate warranty. This coverage is competitive with established brands and provides peace of mind for buyers concerned about the reliability of a relatively new Chinese car brand in the UAE.

How does the V9 Guardian compare to the Toyota Alphard?

The V9 Guardian offers several advantages over the Alphard: it is significantly less expensive, it has plug-in hybrid technology with 1,300 km combined range versus the Alphard's conventional petrol engine, and it features a 41-inch triple-screen infotainment system that the Alphard cannot match. The Alphard holds advantages in brand prestige, proven reliability, and resale value, though the Guardian closes the gap on luxury features.

Is the third row of the V9 Guardian suitable for adults?

Yes, the third row of the V9 Guardian is surprisingly accommodating for adults. Unlike many 7-seaters where the third row is suitable only for children, the V9 Guardian provides adequate headroom and legroom for average-sized adults on shorter journeys. The second-row captain's chairs can slide forward to create additional third-row legroom, and dedicated climate vents and USB-C charging ports ensure third-row passenger comfort.

Final Verdict

The Forthing V9 Guardian is a genuinely impressive luxury MPV that succeeds in its mission to deliver ultra-luxury comfort at a price that undercuts established competitors. The 41-inch triple-screen infotainment system, Nappa leather interior, and executive second-row captain's chairs with massage create an ambiance that rivals vehicles costing significantly more. The 1,300 km combined range from the PHEV powertrain is a genuine game-changer for MPV buyers, eliminating the range anxiety that pure EVs still provoke while delivering real fuel savings for daily use.

Where the V9 Guardian falls short is in brand perception and proven long-term reliability. At 189,900 AED, buyers are investing a significant sum in a brand that is still establishing itself in the UAE, and resale value remains an unknown. However, the 5-year / 150,000 km warranty goes a long way toward addressing these concerns, and the vehicle's unique combination of PHEV efficiency and luxury appointments means it has no direct rival at this price point.

For UAE families and executives seeking a luxury 7-seater that offers both prestige and practicality, the V9 Guardian deserves serious consideration. It is not a perfect vehicle, but it is a remarkably complete one that signals a new era for Chinese cars in the premium segment. The technology, comfort, and efficiency on offer make it one of the most compelling MPVs available in the UAE market today.

Overall Score: 8.5 / 10. The Forthing V9 Guardian earns high marks for its powertrain, interior luxury, technology, and warranty, with deductions for brand uncertainty and the premium price tag. For buyers willing to look beyond badge prestige, it represents outstanding value in the luxury MPV segment.