The Dongfeng Forthing T5 EVO (known in export markets as the Dongfeng Forthing T5 EVO) is a stylish sports compact SUV built by Dongfeng Liuzhou Motor on its modular EMA platform. As the spearhead of the Forthing brand's shift towards a younger, bolder, and more passenger-centric line-up, the T5 EVO broke away from the conservative styling norms of mainstream Chinese SUVs, turning heads with its supercar-inspired "Front Dynamics" design language. Combining an aggressive road presence, potent output from the Mach Power engine, and a 5-star C-NCAP safety rating, the T5 EVO not only became an "urban beast" sensation among young first-time car buyers in China, but also served as the brand's dual-engine spearhead (ICE and green energy) across Europe, the Middle East, Latin America, and Southeast Asia—cementing its place as a staple of Chinese performance-oriented SUVs globally.
Positioned as a next-generation trendy sports C-segment SUV, the Dongfeng Forthing T5 EVO petrol and Hurricane Edition variants are priced domestically between RM99,900 and RM139,900. Its value proposition is unashamedly aggressive: offering RM300,000-class supercar aesthetics, a class-leading 2,715 mm wheelbase, a punchy 300 Nm Mach Power engine, and a tech-laden digital cockpit as standard—all at an entry price point around the RM100,000 mark. It squarely targets Gen-Z first-time car buyers and modern urban family drivers looking to steer clear of mundane crossovers; abroad, its striking styling and high-spec chassis make it a prime benchmark for high-value Chinese compact SUVs.
From its breakthrough debut as an "urban beast" to its latest dual-track petrol and hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) line-up, the evolution of the T5 EVO reflects the democratization of performance and radical design in the Chinese compact SUV segment:
"Urban Beast" Debut and 5-Star Safety (2021–2022): Officially launched in spring 2021. Its signature waterfall "Lion Roar" grille, split hunting-eye LED headlights, and sleek fastback silhouette redefined the design standards of RM100,000-class vehicles. In the same year, the SUV earned a 5-star C-NCAP crash safety rating and began expanding into key export markets across the Middle East, Europe, and South America as a premium sporty offering.
"Hurricane Edition" High-Performance Overhaul (2023–2024): Capitalising on the popularity of the hit drama *The Knockout* (Kuang Biao) and youth demand for sharper dynamics, Dongfeng Forthing rolled out the comprehensively upgraded T5 EVO Hurricane Edition. The refreshed model gained a new horizontal integrated front grille, aggressive side skirts, and Dongfeng's flagship Mach Power 1.5T direct-injection turbocharged engine, bumping peak torque up to a muscular 300 Nm.
2025/2026 Petrol and HEV Synergy (2025–Present): For the 2025–2026 model cycle, the Forthing T5 EVO underwent a major overhaul for multi-energy global markets. The update solidified the performance credentials of the 1.5T Mach Power petrol model (197 PS / 300 Nm); meanwhile, the T5 EVO Hybrid (HEV) made significant inroads into export markets. Pairing a 1.5TD high-efficiency turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor, the hybrid setup delivers a combined output of 240 PS to 288 PS (depending on overseas market tuning), offering snappier 0-100 km/h acceleration alongside a substantial reduction in city fuel consumption.
In the cut-throat C-segment SUV market, the Forthing T5 EVO holds its own against heavyweight rivals like the Changan CS75 PLUS and Geely Boyue L, carving out a distinct niche through its sharp supercar-inspired styling and punchy Mach powertrain. On the export front, the Forthing T5 EVO exemplifies high value-added Chinese manufacturing. In Middle Eastern markets like Jordan and Saudi Arabia, its standard leather-wrapped cabin and vibrant colourways have won over young, affluent buyers; in Southern European markets such as Italy, it has been selected by local automotive firms for bespoke regional adaptations; while in Southeast Asia and the Baltic region, its factory 2K weather-resistant paint (delivering 2x acid resistance and a 30% boost in anti-corrosion performance) ensures proven durability across diverse climate conditions.
In terms of dimensions, the 2026 Forthing T5 EVO boasts a low-slung, dynamic stance. It measures 4,565 mm in length, 1,860 mm in width, and 1,690 mm in height, riding on a class-leading 2,715 mm wheelbase. The extended wheelbase ensures generous legroom for second-row occupants, while the sculpted interior headliner maintains ample headroom despite the swooping fastback roofline.
Key powertrain, chassis, and technical specifications include:
Mach Powertrain (Front-Wheel Drive / FWD):
1.5T Mach Direct-Injection Petrol: Powered by Dongfeng’s proprietary "China Heart" award-winning 1.5-litre inline-four turbocharged direct-injection petrol engine. It delivers 145 kW (approx. 197 PS) and 300 Nm of torque, mated to a Magna 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (7DCT). The 0-100 km/h sprint is completed in 8.8 seconds, with a combined fuel economy of around 6.6 L/100 km.
1.5TD Full Hybrid (T5 EVO Hybrid): Features an integrated hybrid-dedicated internal combustion engine and electric drive motor layout. The system puts out between 240 PS and 288 PS, delivering an EV-like smooth, instantaneous surge of torque alongside exceptional fuel efficiency.
Sports-Tuned Chassis Dynamics:
Configured with MacPherson independent front suspension (with anti-roll bar) and a multi-link independent rear setup. Built on the Super Cube EMA platform, the rigid subframe works in tandem with tuned front anti-roll geometry to provide taut body control, minimal roll, and composed damping over mid-corner undulations during lane changes at 80 km/h or spirited driving.
37 dB Ultra-Quiet Cabin:
The cabin is heavily insulated with 30 mm high-density EVA/PU sound-dampening acoustic materials. Thanks to comprehensive NVH optimization, idling noise levels drop to a whisper-quiet 37 dB. Practicality is enhanced by 60:40 split-folding rear seats that fold completely flat, expanding boot capacity effortlessly for daily runs and weekend getaways.
Inside, the cabin blends sporty aesthetics with modern tech. The dashboard is dominated by a dual 10.25-inch panoramic display setup (digital instrument cluster + 10.25-inch / 13.2-inch infotainment touchscreen). A sporty flat-bottom multi-function steering wheel provides intuitive controls, while the infotainment suite supports wireless smartphone connectivity, intelligent voice commands, and 4G-enabled Over-the-Air (OTA) software updates.
On the equipment and safety front, the range-topping 2026 model offers exceptional kit for its segment: including a panoramic sunroof/glass roof, wireless smartphone charging, a refrigerated front armrest compartment, and dual-zone automatic climate control with rear air-con vents. Structurally, high-strength steel accounts for over 65% of the body frame. Standard safety equipment includes 6 to 8 airbags, disc brakes all around, a full electronic stability suite (ABS, EBD, ESP, TCS, EBA), a 540-degree HD transparent chassis camera system, and a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS). Blending aggressive styling with robust powertrain options, the Forthing T5 EVO delivers a well-rounded, dynamic package for the younger driving demographic worldwide.
In line with Dongfeng Motor Corporation’s strategic shift towards electrification and its global right-hand-drive (RHD) push, the Forthing T5 EVO architecture is progressively aligning with Dongfeng’s latest new energy vehicle (NEV) matrix. Over the next two years, the T5 EVO’s chassis and structural assets will merge with Dongfeng’s latest "Forthing Star" EV and range-extended (EREV) platforms (as seen in models like the Forthing Leiting and Forthing Star T5 series). Leveraging established overseas semi-knocked-down / completely-knocked-down (CKD/KD) operations and expanding RHD distribution networks, the T5 EVO’s established reputation for dynamic agility will pave the way for a new generation of high-value smart EV and hybrid offerings in key global compact SUV segments.
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