DFSK F5

Model Overview

The DFSK F5 is a compact SUV launched by DFSK for overseas markets, known domestically in China as the Dongfeng Fengon ix5 (also badged as the Fengon 5 or Glory iX5). Serving as a pivotal passenger car offering for the brand, the F5 commenced production in 2020 and is primarily marketed across European regions such as Spain, anchoring DFSK's SUV line-up. As of June 2026, the primary variant on sale in Europe is the 1.5T Standard, carrying an official retail price starting from around €29,695 (approx. RM230,000). Key selling points include its 1.5T turbocharged powertrain, front-wheel-drive (FWD) layout, and practical 5-seater cabin, primarily appealing to value-conscious European families.

Notably, DFSK previously introduced a 'microvan' codenamed the F505 in the Chinese domestic market back in 2013; however, its positioning was completely distinct from the export-market F5, with no direct lineage between the two. The international-spec F5 remains a key model in DFSK's passenger vehicle export strategy, tasked with spearheading the brand's pivot towards the SUV segment and broadening its global footprint.

Design Language

The DFSK F5 sports a coupe-SUV silhouette with a distinctive fastback roofline, measuring 4,685 mm long, 1,865 mm wide, and 1,645 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2,790 mm. Up front, a hexagonal honeycomb grille merges seamlessly into the LED headlamp clusters on either side, complemented by a two-tone silver-and-black lower front bumper to project an athletic SUV stance. In profile, the vehicle showcases fluid lines, with blacked-out B-pillars and a raked roofline evoking sports-coupe aesthetics, set over dual five-spoke alloy wheels. Around the rear, full-width LED tail lamps extend inwards across the tailgate, paired with twin chrome exhaust garnishes to accentuate its youthful, sporty character. Exterior paint options include White, Black, and Red, among others. A minimum ground clearance of 200 mm ensures respectable obstacle clearance across urban streets and unpaved suburban routes.

Inside, the cabin features a wraparound dashboard layout slightly canted towards the driver. The seats are wrapped in tactile leatherette upholstery and fitted with ISOFIX child seat anchor points, catering well to families with young children. The overall interior aesthetic remains clean and understated, dominated by dark upholstery tones accented with satin chrome trim and piano black finishing.

Powertrain and Performance

Under the bonnet, the DFSK F5 is powered by a 1.5-litre SFG15T turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine displacing 1,498 cc. It produces a maximum output of 101 kW (approx. 137 PS) and 220 Nm of peak torque at 5,600 rpm. Power is sent to the front wheels via a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) in European-spec models, while selected variants received an upgrade to a 6-speed automatic transmission (6AT) after 2022. Top speed is rated at 180 km/h, though official 0-100 km/h acceleration figures have not been released. Additionally, the F5 can be configured with a petrol/LPG bi-fuel system to significantly reduce operating costs. Peak torque is accessible across an 1,800–4,000 rpm band, with early boost onset providing brisk low-to-mid-range tractability ideal for city driving conditions.

Chassis and Handling

Underneath, the DFSK F5 rides on front MacPherson struts and a rear multi-link independent suspension setup—a solid mechanical configuration that delivers a commendable balance of ride comfort and handling composure in this price bracket. Steering is managed by an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system calibrated for light, effortless manoeuvring in urban environments. Braking duties are handled by front ventilated discs and rear solid discs (early models) or four-wheel disc brakes (later iterations), with higher-spec trims gaining an Electronic Parking Brake (EPB). Power goes exclusively to the front wheels, with no all-wheel-drive (AWD) option offered. Tuned to meet European road demands, the chassis provides reassuring high-speed highway stability and effectively isolates minor tarmac imperfections. Riding on 235/50 R18 tyres, it strikes a neat balance between grip and stance, with an overall suspension setup tailored for compliant family cruising and long-distance road trips.

Cabin and Equipment

The interior of the F5 centres around everyday practicality and essential comfort. The dashboard houses a 7-inch freestanding touchscreen infotainment unit supporting fundamental multimedia connectivity. The instrument panel features a full-digital LCD cluster on higher variants, whereas entry-level specs settle for analogue gauges flanking a 3.5-inch multi-info display. In terms of convenience kit, top-spec variants boast a powered tailgate, automatic headlamps, and rain-sensing wipers. Cabin comforts include standard manual air conditioning (upgraded to single-zone automatic climate control on higher trims), a multi-function steering wheel, and cruise control. In-car entertainment is delivered via a basic 4-to-6-speaker setup, which some owners have cited as average in audio fidelity. Configured strictly as a 5-seater, the F5 offers a generous 779-litre boot, expandable via 60:40 split-folding rear seats to accommodate bulkier cargo and family road-trip gear.

Safety and Driver Assistance

On the safety front, the F5 is constructed with a high-strength cage body shell and features dual front airbags as standard, with higher-spec variants gaining front side airbags and full-length curtain airbags. Standard active safety kit across the range includes a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), ISOFIX child seat mounts, and essential electronic aids such as ABS, EBD, Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control System (TCS), and Electronic Stability Programme (ESP). Premium variants further add advanced warning systems, including Rear Collision Warning (RCW), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), and Door Open Warning (DOW).

For driver assistance, range-topping variants come equipped with a Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS). Core features encompass full-speed Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Blind Spot Detection (BSD), and a 360-degree surround-view camera. The 360-degree camera system proves particularly handy when negotiating tight alleys or executing parallel parking, mitigating the blind spots associated with the vehicle's wider footprint.

Market Performance and Evaluation

DFSK has carefully calibrated the positioning of the F5 for global markets. In European territories like Spain, the F5 retails in the €30,000 bracket, putting it in direct contention with European segment rivals such as the Renault Captur and Peugeot 2008. Owner feedback has been largely positive regarding the vehicle's strong value-for-money quotient, sensible fuel economy, and expansive interior space. Across Europe, DFSK also leverages the dealership and marketing network of SERES—the group's premium sub-brand—to bolster market presence. While its relatively wide body dimensions can compromise manoeuvrability through narrow Italian city streets, the onboard 360-degree camera system significantly eases parking and tight-space navigation.

In terms of overall sales performance, the DFSK F5 has sustained a steady volume, gradually cultivating brand awareness abroad. Nonetheless, in Europe's competitive compact SUV arena, its market share growth remains capped by modest brand equity and an extended product lifecycle. The sales and service network continues to expand, backed by several authorised dealer outlets in Spain and neighbouring countries. Customer deliveries in Europe began in 2021, and by 2025, with nearly five years in production, the F5 has stepped into the later phase of its model lifecycle. All told, bolstered by sharp pricing and functional practicality, the DFSK F5 has carved out a respectable niche among budget-conscious family buyers overseas, marking a significant milestone in DFSK's ongoing global expansion.