DFSK Fengon ix7

Model Overview

The Fengon ix7 is a mid-size SUV under DFSK's Dongfeng Fengon brand, officially launched in November 2019 with a manufacturer's recommended retail price ranging from RM125,900 to RM215,900. Positioned as Dongfeng Fengon's first mid-to-large SUV, the Fengon ix7 was benchmarked against equivalent joint-venture rivals, taking on the compact SUV market with the generous proportions and robust output of an RM130,000-class mid-size SUV, whilst challenging 2WD rivals with an RM150,000-class 4WD offering in an effort to establish a new value benchmark in the mid-size SUV segment. Following its tenure in the market, the model had been discontinued by around 2025.

Design Language

Visually, the Fengon ix7 adopts Dongfeng Fengon's signature family design language. The front fascia offers two distinct styling choices: a starry dot-matrix grille and a dual-slat chrome grille, both stretching seamlessly towards the headlights to visually widen the front profile. Along the sides, a contrasting yellow decorative strip runs from front to rear for an added touch of style, while the rear features the then-popular full-width LED taillight cluster complemented by dual exhaust finishers, giving the SUV a distinct road presence. In terms of dimensions, the Fengon ix7 measures 4,930 mm in length, 1,935 mm in width, and 1,765 mm in height, with a 2,810 mm wheelbase, giving it a competitive edge in size within its class.

Inside, the Fengon ix7 features a dual-tone cabin highlighted by generous chrome trim strips and gloss panels to create an upscale ambience. Mid-to-high-spec variants are equipped with a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster paired with a 12.3-inch central infotainment touchscreen, alongside a touch-sensitive air-conditioning control panel that lends a distinctly modern, high-tech touch. Seating is configured in a 2+3+2 seven-seater layout; actual cabin testing demonstrates that a 180 cm tall passenger can enjoy four fingers of legroom and three fingers of headroom in the third row.

Powertrain Performance

The powertrain is one of the core highlights of the Fengon ix7. The entire range is powered by an HD20 2.0-litre TGDI direct-injection turbocharged petrol engine, delivering a maximum output of 170 kW (231 PS) and a peak torque of 355 Nm. Maximum power is produced at 5,500 rpm, with peak torque delivered between 1,800 and 4,000 rpm; it runs on RON 92 petrol and complies with China VI emission standards. Power is transmitted via a 6-speed automatic transmission (6AT) sourced from South Korea's Hyundai Group.

In terms of fuel consumption, the official combined figure stands at 8.6 L/100 km for the 2WD variant and 9.2 L/100 km for the 4WD variant. Real-world owner feedback indicates an average combined fuel consumption of around 10.0 L/100 km, with minor variations across different trim levels. Available in both 2WD and 4WD configurations, the entire lineup was backed by a seven-year or 150,000 km manufacturer warranty.

Chassis and Handling

Underneath, the suspension setup comprises front MacPherson struts and a rear multi-link independent setup, fitted with anti-roll bars to enhance handling stability. The 4WD variants feature BorgWarner's next-generation NexTrac intelligent on-demand 4WD system, which can switch flexibly between 2WD, 4WD Lock, and other driving modes to cope with diverse road conditions. Steering is managed by an electric power steering (EPS) system, built over a monocoque chassis structure.

During test drives, the suspension of the Fengon ix7 leans towards a comfort-oriented setup, absorbing and smoothing out most road imperfections nicely for family trips. Industry analyses note that during its development, key components including the 4WD prop shaft, drive shafts, front suspension, and rear suspension referenced the chassis architecture of the Toyota Highlander. The chassis offers a minimum ground clearance of 200 mm, with boot space expandable from 450 litres to 1,893 litres to accommodate diverse cargo requirements.

Cabin and Features

The Fengon ix7 is equipped with the upgraded MY FENGON Super Intelligent Connected System 4.0, featuring responsive voice recognition capable of controlling over 200 functions across six major vehicle systems, including the sunroof, power windows, seats, climate control, MP5 central screen, and doors. Mid-to-high-spec models also support telematics connectivity and OTA updates, allowing owners to remotely operate engine start/stop, windows, sunroof, and air conditioning via a dedicated smartphone app.

In terms of comfort and convenience, high-spec variants come equipped with a Head-Up Display (HUD) projecting vehicle speed, revs, and navigation information onto the windscreen. In addition, the front seats feature heating and ventilation functions, with the driver's seat benefiting from a three-slot memory setting. Rear air vents come standard across the range, while high-spec variants gain dual-zone automatic climate control operated via a touch panel. Premium models also boast Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) headlights, a hands-free powered tailgate, wireless smartphone charging, and an electronic gear shifter.

Safety and Intelligent Driving

In terms of safety equipment, the Fengon ix7 comes standard across the board with essential active and passive safety features such as dual front airbags, a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), ABS, and Electronic Stability Programme (ESP). Higher-grade models build on this with front side airbags, front and rear curtain airbags, and a driver knee airbag for more comprehensive occupant protection.

For advanced driver assistance, the Fengon ix7 is Dongfeng Fengon's first model equipped with a Level 2 ADAS suite. Utilising a mid-range millimetre-wave radar and a multi-function camera unit, the system delivers full Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capabilities, including Full-Speed Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Traffic Jam Assist (TJA), Integrated Cruise Assist (ICA), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Blind Spot Detection (BSD), and Auto Parking Assist (APA), capable of delivering hazard alerts and intervention within milliseconds. Furthermore, the SUV is equipped with practical driving aids including a 360-degree surround-view camera, Hill Descent Control (HDC), Hill-Start Assist (HSA), and Driver Fatigue Alert.

Market Performance and Reception

The Fengon ix7 garnered considerable interest upon its initial debut. Serving as Dongfeng Fengon's flagship SUV, it offered solid value in the RM120,000 to RM210,000 price bracket, thanks to its larger exterior dimensions within the segment, standard 2.0T+6AT powertrain across the lineup, and Level 2 ADAS capabilities. However, with market competition intensifying rapidly, the commercial performance of the Fengon ix7 fell short of expectations. Overall sales for the Dongfeng Fengon brand remained sluggish leading into 2026, by which time sales figures for the Fengon ix7 had practically dwindled to zero.

In terms of owner reception, reviews for the discontinued SUV were largely positive, with overall ratings on automotive portals ranking near the top of its segment. Owners widely praised its commanding road presence, generous cabin space, and punchy performance; conversely, feedback also pointed out higher-than-average fuel consumption, minor interior fit-and-finish flaws, and occasional engine noise in specific variants. Consumer feedback platforms such as CheZhiWang also logged a number of quality complaints, primarily concerning the bodywork, engine, and suspension components. Overall, while the Fengon ix7 stood out as a capable flagship mid-size SUV from a domestic marque, the combined pressures of brand equity, model refresh cycles, and the accelerating transition towards new energy vehicles (NEVs) prevented it from sustaining market momentum, ultimately leading to its discontinuation.