Forthing V9 PHEV vs V9 Guardian: Chinese Cars MPV Tier Comparison

Forthing V9 PHEV vs V9 Guardian: Chinese Cars MPV Tier Comparison

The Forthing V9 is available in two PHEV variants that represent distinct tiers of Chinese cars luxury MPV offering in the UAE: the standard V9 PHEV at 149,900 AED and the flagship V9 Guardian at 189,900 AED. Both share the same 1.5TD PHEV powertrain delivering 1,300 km of combined range and the 41-inch triple-screen infotainment system, but the Guardian elevates the experience with Nappa leather, executive captain's chairs with massage, 19-inch wheels, and 64-colour ambient lighting. As Chinese cars increasingly offer tiered luxury options to compete with established premium brands, the V9 comparison illustrates whether the 40,000 AED premium for the Guardian is justified or whether the standard PHEV represents the sweet spot of value and luxury.

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

Quick Overview

Forthing V9 at a Glance

Price: 149,900 AED (PHEV) / 189,900 AED (Guardian) | Body Style: 7-Seater Luxury MPV

The Forthing V9 PHEV and V9 Guardian share the same fundamental vehicle: a 7-seater luxury MPV powered by a 1.5TD turbocharged plug-in hybrid powertrain delivering 1,300 km of combined range. Both feature the impressive 41-inch triple-screen infotainment system that spans the full dashboard width, both offer three rows of seating, and both are backed by a 5-year / 150,000 km warranty. The difference lies in the level of luxury appointments and the attention to detail in the cabin.

The V9 PHEV, at 149,900 AED, is the entry point to luxury PHEV MPV ownership in the Forthing range. It offers the same powertrain, the same infotainment system, and the same 7-seat practicality as the Guardian, making it an outstanding value proposition for buyers who want PHEV MPV luxury without paying for the most expensive trim. The V9 Guardian, at 189,900 AED, adds Nappa leather throughout all rows, executive second-row captain's chairs with heating, ventilation, and multi-mode massage, 19-inch alloy wheels, 64-colour ambient lighting, and additional luxury touches that elevate the cabin to ultra-luxury territory.

The 40,000 AED price difference between the two variants is significant and represents the premium for moving from standard luxury to ultra-luxury appointments. For some buyers, the Guardian's executive seating and Nappa leather will be worth every dirham, particularly those who regularly carry VIP passengers or who simply want the best. For others, the PHEV's combination of the same powertrain, the same infotainment, and the same practicality at a lower price will represent the smarter choice. This comparison examines the differences in detail to help buyers decide.

Key Highlights

• Both share 1.5TD PHEV with 1,300 km combined range and 41-inch triple screen
• V9 PHEV: 149,900 AED entry to luxury PHEV MPV ownership
• V9 Guardian: 189,900 AED with Nappa leather and massage captain's chairs
• Guardian adds 19-inch wheels vs standard PHEV wheels
• Guardian features 64-colour ambient lighting system
• Both offer 7-seat configuration with three rows of comfort
• Both backed by 5-year / 150,000 km warranty

Best For: Buyers choosing between premium PHEV MPV value and ultra-luxury MPV flagship

Performance & Powertrain

In terms of performance, the V9 PHEV and V9 Guardian are identical, as both share the same 1.5TD PHEV powertrain. The turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine works with electric motors to deliver smooth, linear power that suits the luxury MPV character. Both variants offer the same 1,300 km combined range, the same pure electric driving capability for shorter trips, and the same seamless transition between electric and petrol modes. The Guardian's 19-inch wheels and potentially different tire specification may slightly affect ride comfort and road noise compared to the PHEV's standard wheels, with the larger wheels typically providing a firmer ride but potentially better highway stability. However, both variants are tuned primarily for comfort, and the suspension absorbs road imperfections with the composure expected of luxury MPVs. Wind and road noise are well-suppressed in both, and the cabin remains serene at highway speeds. The regenerative braking system is shared, and both variants offer the same driving modes. In practical terms, there is no performance difference between the two variants, and the choice is purely about luxury appointments rather than driving dynamics.

Interior & Comfort

The interior is where the V9 Guardian justifies its premium price, and the differences are significant. Both variants share the 41-inch triple-screen infotainment system, which is equally impressive in both. However, the Guardian upgrades the upholstery to Nappa leather on all seating surfaces, compared to the PHEV's standard leather or leatherette. The quality difference is noticeable: Nappa leather is softer, more supple, and more luxurious to the touch. The Guardian's second-row captain's chairs are the most significant upgrade, offering heating, ventilation, and multiple massage modes, compared to the PHEV's standard captain's chairs which may offer heating but not the full suite of comfort functions. The Guardian also adds 64-colour ambient lighting, which transforms the cabin ambiance at night and creates a genuinely premium atmosphere. Additional Guardian upgrades may include upgraded carpet mats, additional wood or metallic trim accents, and potentially enhanced sound insulation. The 19-inch wheels on the Guardian fill the arches more impressively than the PHEV's standard wheels. For buyers who spend significant time in the second row, particularly those who use a driver, the Guardian's executive seating transforms the experience from comfortable to truly luxurious. For buyers who primarily drive themselves and use the second row for family members, the PHEV's standard seating is more than adequate, and the 40,000 AED saving is substantial.

Technology & Infotainment

The technology package is shared between the V9 PHEV and V9 Guardian, as both feature the same 41-inch triple-screen infotainment system. This system is the technological centrepiece of both variants and includes the driver's instrument cluster, central infotainment, and front passenger display in one continuous array. Both variants include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, built-in navigation, voice control in Arabic and English, a premium audio system, wireless phone charging, and multiple USB-C ports. Both include over-the-air updates and connected services via smartphone app. The 360-degree camera system, digital rearview mirror, and head-up display are shared. The Guardian may include additional technology features such as rear-seat entertainment screens and wireless headphones, which enhance the passenger experience on long journeys. However, the core technology is identical, and the PHEV does not feel technologically inferior to the Guardian. The infotainment performance, display quality, and feature set are the same, and both variants benefit from the same software and connectivity. The technology is a shared strength, and neither variant has a meaningful advantage in this area.

Safety & Driver Assistance

Safety equipment is identical between the V9 PHEV and V9 Guardian, as both share the same body structure and safety systems. Both vehicles feature high-strength steel construction, comprehensive airbag coverage including side curtain airbags for all three rows, ABS, electronic stability control, and traction control. Both include adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning with lane keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Both feature a 360-degree camera system, front and rear parking sensors, driver attention monitoring, automatic high-beam assist, and traffic sign recognition. Both include ISOFIX child seat anchorages and power-operated sliding doors. The PHEV battery pack includes thermal management, and both variants share the same crash structure. The safety equipment level is excellent in both variants and competitive with established luxury MPV brands. There is no safety advantage to choosing the Guardian over the PHEV, and both provide the same level of protection for all occupants.

Practicality & Boot Space

Practicality is shared between the two variants, as both offer the same 7-seat configuration, the same power-operated sliding doors, the same power tailgate, and the same boot space. Both can be configured for maximum cargo by folding the third and second rows. The Guardian's 19-inch wheels do not significantly impact practicality, and both variants have the same ground clearance and manoeuvrability. The PHEV's charging requirements are the same as the Guardian's, and both can be charged at home or at public stations. The 1,300 km combined range is shared, meaning both variants offer the same freedom from range anxiety. The practical differences are minimal: the Guardian's Nappa leather may require more careful maintenance than the PHEV's standard upholstery, and the Guardian's 19-inch tires will be more expensive to replace. For practical family use, both variants are equally capable, and the choice is about luxury preference rather than practicality.

Ownership Costs & Warranty

Both the V9 PHEV and V9 Guardian share the same 5-year / 150,000 km warranty, providing identical peace of mind. Running costs are similar, as both share the same powertrain and deliver the same fuel efficiency. The Guardian's 19-inch tires will be more expensive to replace, and the Nappa leather may require specialist cleaning products, slightly increasing maintenance costs. Depreciation is a concern for both, though the Guardian's higher initial price means a potentially larger absolute depreciation amount. However, the Guardian's ultra-luxury positioning may help it retain a higher percentage of its value if demand for luxury Chinese MPVs increases. Insurance costs will be higher for the Guardian due to its higher value. Service intervals and costs are the same for both variants. For buyers focused on value, the PHEV offers the same powertrain, practicality, and warranty at a significantly lower price. For buyers who prioritise luxury and are willing to pay for the best, the Guardian's premium appointments justify the additional cost.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Both share the 1.5TD PHEV powertrain with 1,300 km combined range
• Both feature the class-leading 41-inch triple-screen infotainment
• Guardian adds Nappa leather, massage captain's chairs, and 64-colour ambient lighting
• PHEV offers outstanding luxury MPV value at 149,900 AED
• Both backed by 5-year / 150,000 km comprehensive warranty
• Both offer genuine 7-seat practicality with three comfortable rows

Cons

• 40,000 AED price gap between PHEV and Guardian is significant
• Guardian's 19-inch tires are more expensive to replace
• Brand recognition and resale value remain unproven for both
• Both are large vehicles that can be challenging to park in older developments

Full Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between the V9 PHEV and V9 Guardian?

The main difference is the level of luxury appointments. The Guardian adds Nappa leather throughout, executive second-row captain's chairs with heating, ventilation, and massage, 19-inch alloy wheels, and 64-colour ambient lighting. Both share the same 1.5TD PHEV powertrain, 1,300 km combined range, 41-inch triple-screen infotainment, and 5-year warranty. The Guardian costs 40,000 AED more than the PHEV.

Is the V9 Guardian worth the extra 40,000 AED over the PHEV?

It depends on your priorities. If you regularly carry VIP passengers, use a driver, or simply want the most luxurious MPV available, the Guardian's Nappa leather and massage captain's chairs justify the premium. If you primarily drive yourself and the second row is used by family members, the PHEV offers the same powertrain, infotainment, and practicality at a significantly lower price, making it the smarter value choice.

Do both V9 variants have the same range and performance?

Yes, both the V9 PHEV and V9 Guardian share the same 1.5TD PHEV powertrain and deliver the same 1,300 km combined range. Performance is identical, as both use the same engine, electric motors, and battery system. The Guardian's 19-inch wheels may very slightly affect ride comfort but do not meaningfully change performance or efficiency.

Which V9 variant has better resale value?

This is difficult to predict, as both variants face the brand recognition challenge common to Chinese cars in the UAE. The PHEV's lower purchase price means a smaller absolute depreciation amount, while the Guardian's ultra-luxury positioning may appeal to a niche of used buyers if demand for luxury Chinese MPVs grows. Neither variant has a clear resale value advantage at this stage.

Do both V9 variants come with the same warranty?

Yes, both the V9 PHEV and V9 Guardian come with the same 5-year / 150,000 km comprehensive warranty. The PHEV battery is covered under a separate warranty in both variants. The warranty coverage is identical, providing the same peace of mind regardless of which variant you choose.

Final Verdict

The Forthing V9 PHEV and V9 Guardian represent two tiers of the same excellent luxury MPV, and both deliver outstanding value in their respective price brackets. The PHEV, at 149,900 AED, offers the same 1.5TD PHEV powertrain with 1,300 km range, the same 41-inch triple-screen infotainment, and the same 7-seat practicality as the Guardian, making it one of the best-value luxury PHEV MPVs available. For most buyers, the PHEV represents the sweet spot of the V9 range.

The Guardian, at 189,900 AED, justifies its premium with Nappa leather, executive captain's chairs with massage, 19-inch wheels, and 64-colour ambient lighting. These upgrades transform the cabin from comfortable to truly luxurious, and for buyers who prioritise the second-row experience or who want the absolute best, the Guardian delivers. The 40,000 AED premium is significant but not unreasonable given the level of luxury appointment added.

Both variants share the same powertrain, technology, safety, warranty, and practicality, so the choice is purely about how much luxury you want and are willing to pay for. For value-focused buyers, the PHEV is the obvious choice. For luxury-focused buyers, the Guardian is the ultimate expression of the V9 platform.

Overall Score: V9 PHEV 8.5 / 10, V9 Guardian 9.0 / 10. The PHEV earns high marks for value, powertrain, technology, and practicality. The Guardian earns a higher score for its ultra-luxury appointments, with the deduction being its higher price. Both are outstanding MPVs that demonstrate the capability of Chinese cars in the luxury segment.