
The Dongfeng Fengon S560 is a compact C-segment SUV launched by DFSK's Fengon brand, positioned as a "practical family SUV" with a strong emphasis on generous cabin space, value for money, and multi-seat versatility. First launched on 14 November 2017 with an introductory price range of RM69,900 to RM96,900, the model represented a key strategic rollout for the brand in the entry-level SUV segment. Over its extensive model lifecycle, the S560 has undergone numerous annual facelifts, transitioning from an early 1.8-litre naturally aspirated mill to a powertrain line-up centred primarily around a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine.
In April 2025, the latest Fengon S560 went on sale as a single 1.5T Manual Comfort variant, carrying an official retail price of RM99,900. The vehicle comes standard in a 5-seater configuration with an optional 7-seater setup (2+3+2 layout), backed by a 7-year or 150,000 km comprehensive manufacturer warranty that is fully transferable to subsequent used-car buyers. In its class, principal rivals include the Chery Tiggo 7, Haval M6, Wuling Xingchen, and Jetour X70.
The exterior styling of the Fengon S560 retains the brand’s signature understated and functional aesthetic. Up front, it features a vertical chrome-slatted radiator grille flanked by halogen headlamp assemblies, delivering a clean and conventional look. The side profile adopts straightforward character lines, complemented by 17-inch alloy rims and functional roof rails that underline its utilitarian character. The rear styling remains distinctly squarish, with some netizens remarking on its "van-like silhouette", making the overall design lean on the conservative side.
Dimension-wise, the 2025 model measures 4,550 mm long, 1,815 mm wide, and 1,735 mm tall, with a 2,690 mm wheelbase and a minimum ground clearance of 200 mm when fully laden. While its overall footprint sits mid-pack among compact SUVs, the 2,690 mm wheelbase provides a solid foundation for flexible interior seating arrangements. Exterior colour choices include basic shades such as Gilt Black and Nebula White.
Inside, the cabin features a horizontal dashboard layout fitted with a 3.5-inch TFT multi-info display and a 7-inch floating touchscreen infotainment unit with smartphone connectivity support. The interior is predominantly finished in hard scratchy plastics with basic tactile quality, representing a typical cost-saving compromise in this budget segment. An openable panoramic sunroof is available as an option on higher-spec grades.
The 2025 Fengon S560 is driven by a transversely mounted SFG15TA 1.5-litre turbocharged inline-four petrol engine. The powerplant delivers a maximum output of 110 kW (approx. 150 PS) and 220 Nm of peak torque, with the pulling power accessible between 1,800 and 4,000 rpm. Utilising multi-point fuel injection (MPI) with a cast-iron block and aluminium alloy cylinder head, the engine complies with China VI emission standards and runs on RON 92 petrol.
Power is routed to the front wheels via a 6-speed manual transmission in a front-wheel-drive (FWD) layout. Top speed is rated at 180 km/h, while WLTC combined fuel consumption stands at 7.0 L/100 km. It features a 50-litre fuel tank and registers a kerb weight of 1,500 kg.
Notably, the 2025 lineup is exclusively manual-only, which significantly curtails its market appeal given the overwhelming consumer preference for automatic transmissions today. Earlier model years (2018–2022) offered a broader range of options, including a 1.8-litre NA unit (102 kW), a 2.0-litre NA unit (105 kW), and a CVT automatic gearbox.
Underneath, the Fengon S560 utilises a front MacPherson strut independent suspension and a rear five-link coil spring non-independent rigid axle setup, typical of entry-level budget SUVs in this class. Tuned primarily for load-hauling capability, the rear suspension offers mediocre bump absorption on paved surfaces, with noticeable rebound and firmness felt by rear passengers over rougher tarmac.
The drivetrain is front-wheel drive, paired with an electric power steering (EPS) system featuring speed-sensitive weighting. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, retained by a traditional mechanical handbrake instead of an electronic parking brake (EPB). It rides on 215/60 R17 tyres and comes with a full-sized spare tyre. While specific approach and departure angles are not stated, the 200 mm ground clearance easily accommodates light off-road excursions and unpaved rural roads.
Overall chassis tuning prioritises utilitarian load-lugging over passenger comfort. Some owners have pointed out that the suspension rides stiffly, leading to a rather jarring ride when crossing speed bumps.
The on-board tech in the 2025 Fengon S560 covers the basic essentials. Standard equipment includes a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment unit supporting factory smartphone mirroring (CarLife), Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, and USB/AUX audio playback. Entertainment is piped through a 4-speaker sound system.
On the comfort and convenience front, it comes standard with a urethane multi-function steering wheel, faux leather upholstery, manual air conditioning, rear air-con vents, a reverse camera, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. The seating layout comes standard as a 5-seater with an optional 7-seater configuration (a RM3,000 option); the 7-seater variant features 60:40 split-folding second-row seats with recline adjustment, alongside 50:50 split-folding third-row seats that fold flat to expand boot capacity.
In terms of safety kit, standard equipment across the board is limited to ABS, EBD, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and dual front airbags (2 airbags in total). Crucially, Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), side airbags, and curtain airbags are omitted. As for driving aids, it only features standard passive cruise control, lacking any Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).
The market performance of the Dongfeng Fengon S560 paints a clear picture of an early peak followed by a steep decline. Having been on sale for nearly nine years, its monthly sales volume has plummeted to negligible numbers—recording just 26 units in March 2025 (ranking 69th in its segment), an annual tally of only 154 units across 2025, and a mere 9 units in December 2025.
Industry observers attribute the S560's struggles to several key factors: first, sluggish product updates, as offering solely a manual variant in 2025 alienates the vast majority of mainstream buyers; second, weak brand presence, with Dongfeng Fengon suffering from dwindling brand visibility and a retail/after-sales network that lags far behind leading domestic marques; third, mixed quality control records, where complaint platforms such as 12365auto show that earlier batches (2018–2019 models) suffered from gearbox noises and jerking, persistent check engine lights, rough idling, engine stalling, and body rust issues, all of which undermined consumer confidence.
From an ownership standpoint, satisfied buyers praise the S560 for its accessible entry price, practical 7-seater versatility, and the long-term peace of mind offered by the 7-year/150,000 km warranty. Conversely, common complaints centre on the excessive hard plastics in the cabin, prominent engine noise under load, and the lack of ergonomic details like a rear centre armrest and rear cup holders.
To sum up, the Dongfeng Fengon S560 is a budget-focused compact SUV built around the formula of "low price tag + expansive space + 7 seats". In the sub-RM100,000 petrol SUV space, it caters precisely to buyers seeking strict seating capacity, simple mechanicals, and low upfront costs (such as large families in tier-3/4 cities or small business operators). Nevertheless, as rival domestic brands rapidly move upmarket and new energy vehicles (NEVs) gain substantial market share, the ageing S560's product appeal has fallen behind, leaving it with very limited room to compete moving forward.