Dongfeng Fengon 500 (Glory 500 / Seres 3)

The Dongfeng Fengon 500 (widely known in export and overseas markets as the Dongfeng DFSK Glory 500 or Fengon 500) serves as a core strategic offering in Dongfeng Motor’s entry-level compact SUV portfolio. Standing out as a benchmark for "exceptional value-for-money and generous cabin space" among Chinese marques, the Fengon 500 disrupted conventional pricing barriers in the mainstream compact SUV segment by offering standard compact-sized dimensions at subcompact pricing. Furthermore, engineered on a global multi-powertrain platform from day one, it features not only a rugged, reliable internal combustion engine (ICE) version, but also a pure electric derivative—the Seres 3 / Glory E3 —which has made inroads into Western Europe and Southeast Asia as a pioneer for accessible Chinese electric SUVs.

Model Overview 

Positioned as a "people's compact SUV", the Dongfeng Fengon 500's domestic recommended retail pricing has consistently hovered between RM61,800 and RM85,800 (with early entry variants dipping as low as RM54,800), underlining its strong mass-market appeal. Its headline appeal centres on delivering a practical, near-compact cabin courtesy of a 2,655 mm wheelbase on a subcompact budget, paired with an energetic two-tone styling package and versatile 1.5L NA / 1.5T turbo powertrain choices. It squarely targets young first-time car buyers, pragmatic families, and cost-conscious urban commuters in export markets seeking an affordable daily workhorse.

Development History 

The evolution of the Fengon 500 highlights DFSK’s transition from a commercial-vehicle-centric manufacturer into a refined, globally oriented passenger car brand:

Debut of the "People's SUV" Concept (2020–2021): Officially launched in late 2020, Dongfeng Fengon positioned it as an RM50,000 to RM60,000-bracket "People's SUV". With European-tuned chassis dynamics typically found in RM100,000-class vehicles, it dispelled the notion that budget-friendly cars must compromise on ride quality.

1.5T Turbo Upgrade and Sporty Two-Tone Styling (2022–2024): To satisfy market demand for punchier performance, a 1.5T turbocharged mill producing 150 PS was introduced. Aesthetic revisions brought a bold gloss-black front radiator grille, striking orange sport accents, and a trendy floating two-tone roof that resonated strongly with younger demographics.

2025/2026 Model Years: ICE & EV Dual-Track Strategy (2025–Present): Moving into the 2025–2026 product cycle, the Fengon 500 / Glory 500 family underwent a strategic global realignment. The ICE lineup continues to offer dependable, frugal options—namely a 1.5L naturally aspirated engine (116 PS) and a potent 1.5T turbo unit, paired with a 5-speed manual or a Punch-sourced CVT. Meanwhile, its dedicated electric sibling, the Seres 3 (Seres 3 / Landian E3), spearheads the brand's electrification push across key European and Southeast Asian markets (including Malaysia and Singapore), completing the 500 series' international portfolio.

Market Performance 

In the hotly contested budget SUV arena, the Dongfeng Fengon 500 battles rivals like the Geely Vision X6 and Chery Tiggo 5x, carving out a distinct edge with its class-above cabin room. On the international stage, the DFSK Glory 500 has proven to be a solid export performer. In South American markets like Peru and Ecuador, it is a go-to choice for first-time buyers of Chinese SUVs; in Southern Europe (notably Italy), it has been badge-engineered and customised by local marques such as the Cirelli 2; while in the Middle East, its standard leatherette cabin upholstery and proven thermal resilience in hot climates make it a popular daily runabout for urban households.

Core Technologies 

Dimensionally, the 2026 Fengon 500 strikes a balanced compact SUV footprint, measuring 4,385 mm in length, 1,850 mm in width, and 1,645 mm in height, riding on an impressive 2,655 mm wheelbase. Its 1,850 mm width translates to generous shoulder room, complemented by a virtually flat rear floor pan that enhances second-row passenger comfort.

Below are the key powertrain, packaging, and chassis specifications: 

Dual Powertrain Lineup (Front-Wheel Drive / FWD): 

1.5L Naturally Aspirated (NA): Powered by a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 85 kW (approx. 116 PS) and 147.5 Nm of torque, paired with either a 5-speed manual (5MT) or a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

1.5T Turbocharged: Delivers a higher output of 110 kW (approx. 150 PS) and 220 Nm of torque, mated to a 6-speed manual or a CVT, returning an estimated combined fuel economy of around 6.9 L/100 km .

Pure Electric Derivative (Seres 3 / E3): Driven by a 120 kW (163 PS) permanent magnet synchronous motor paired with an approx. 53.6 kWh battery pack, delivering over 400 km of urban range (NEDC cycle) alongside DC fast charging capability.

Chassis and Suspension:

The setup employs front MacPherson struts and a rear torsion beam semi-independent layout. Developed under RM100,000-class benchmark standards and tuned by experienced European chassis engineers, the front setup provides adequate roll stiffness, neatly controlling body rebound over speed humps or winding hill roads to ensure a composed and planted ride.

Versatile 5-Seater Practicality:

Flat, Expandable Boot Space: The interior features leatherette or premium dual-tone fabric upholstery. The 60:40 split-folding rear seats fold flat to transform the standard generous boot into a vast, uninterrupted cargo bed capable of swallowing bulky camping equipment or boxes with ease.

The dashboard design embraces a sporty, youthful theme, featuring turbine-style circular air-con vents on the centre stack. Higher-grade variants come fitted with a 7.0-inch or 10.5-inch HD touchscreen infotainment head unit complete with GPS navigation, a high-definition reverse camera, and Bluetooth connectivity.

On the comfort and safety front, the 2026 Fengon 500 upholds an egalitarian approach. Standard equipment across all variants includes Electric Power Steering (EPS) with light steering feel, a high-output air-conditioning system, and rear reading lamps. Braking safety is managed by ABS with EBD. Mid-to-high variants add Traction Control (TCS), Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC/HHC) , and cruise control. Paired with dual front airbags and a high-tensile safety cell structure, the vehicle provides robust and dependable occupant protection at an entry-level price point.

Future Plans 

As Dongfeng Motor accelerates its global drive towards electrification and brand elevation, the Fengon 500 family's roadmap centres squarely on multi-powertrain export expansion. Over the next two years, Dongfeng aims to unlock further potential in right-hand-drive (RHD) markets, spearheading its push with updated iterations of the electric Seres 3 featuring advanced connected-cockpit tech to penetrate the compact EV segments across Southeast Asia and Europe. Concurrently, leveraging DFSK's established dealer networks and local knock-down (KD) assembly operations across Latin America, the Middle East, and South Asia, the 500 series will continue to offer budget-conscious families worldwide an attractive, practical, and highly dependable mobility solution.