The Dongfeng Forthing T5 EVO is a C-segment SUV under the Dongfeng Forthing stable, positioned as a "trendsetting SUV" tailored for Gen-Z buyers, carving out its market presence through its aggressive "Front Dynamics" design language and high value-for-money proposition. Serving as a watershed model marking Dongfeng Forthing's strategic shift from commercial vehicles to the passenger car arena, the SUV commenced pre-orders in December 2020 with an indicative price range between RM104,900 and RM137,900. The line-up subsequently spawned several derivatives, including the T5 EVO Relang Edition and T5 EVO Kuangbiao Edition. The latter officially went on sale in May 2023 with an official retail price ranging from RM99,900 to RM139,900. In selected overseas markets, the model is badged as the "Forthing T-FIVE", while others retain the "T5 EVO" moniker.
In terms of dimensions, the domestic Chinese-spec T5 EVO is offered in two configurations: the earlier versions measure 4,565 mm in length, 1,860 mm in width, and 1,690 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,715 mm; the 2024 Kuangbiao Edition sees its overall length stretched to 4,595 mm courtesy of its sportier body kit, whilst retaining virtually identical width and height. The export-spec model features marginally different dimensions at 4,650 mm long, 1,862 mm wide, and 1,690 mm tall. Both export and early domestic models adopt a 5-door, 5-seater SUV bodystyle, with kerb weight rated at around 1,550 kg across the board.
The T5 EVO is the first production model to embody Dongfeng Forthing's "Front Dynamics" design philosophy, penned jointly by Dongfeng Forthing's Sino-Western design teams alongside German designers, famously marketed under the bold slogan of "the world's second best-looking SUV". Up front, it sports Dongfeng Forthing's new roaring lion emblem alongside an imposing front fascia defined by a massive blacked-out radiator grille seamlessly integrated with fang-like trim pieces below the split headlamp clusters. Slim LED daytime running lights (DRLs) flanking the bonnet add significant visual drama. Around the back, it features a trendy full-width LED light bar and a quad-exhaust layout with dual round tailpipes on each side to amplify its sporty credentials. The Kuangbiao Edition swaps out the grille for horizontal slats, complemented by black side skirts and rear aerodynamic diffusers. A choice of up to eight exterior colours—including Jasper Green, Starlight Black, and Space-Time Blue—is available alongside dual-tone paint schemes.
Inside, the T5 EVO features a wraparound cockpit architecture focusing on sportiness and tech-laden aesthetics. The interior comes standard with extensive soft-touch upholstery and faux carbon-fibre trim inserts, offering dual-tone colour schemes such as black and red. Taking centre stage is a dual 10.25-inch integrated widescreen display, complemented by an electronic shift-by-wire gear selector on the centre console. A leather multifunction steering wheel is standard across the range, while rear passengers benefit from dedicated rear air-con vents and USB charging ports.
The powertrain lineup of the T5 EVO varies across generations. Early domestic variants and selected export models are powered by a Mitsubishi-sourced 1.5TD turbocharged engine (code: 4A95TD), developing a maximum output of 145 kW (approx. 197 PS) and 285 Nm of peak torque. Meanwhile, mid-to-high-spec variants of the Kuangbiao Edition feature Dongfeng Group's proprietary Mach Power 1.5TD engine (code: DFMC15TP1), matching the maximum output of 145 kW (approx. 197 PS) while bumping peak torque up to 300 Nm. This engine was previously recognised as one of the "China Heart" Top Ten Engines of the Year.
Power is transmitted to the front wheels via a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (DCT) across the range, with early variants sourced from Getrag and later Mach Power-equipped Kuangbiao Edition models utilising units from Magna. The drivetrain is exclusively front-engine, front-wheel-drive (FWD). In terms of performance, the domestic version completes the 0-100 km/h sprint in 8.8 seconds, returning a WLTC combined fuel consumption figure as low as 6.6 L/100 km. Crucially, the SUV runs on RON 92 petrol, delivering robust performance while keeping daily running costs manageable for families.
Underneath, the T5 EVO comes standard with an all-round independent suspension setup consisting of front MacPherson struts and a rear multi-link layout, complete with anti-roll bars. Underpinned by Dongfeng Forthing's Super Cube EMA platform, the chassis strikes a fine balance between ride comfort, body control, and cornering stability. Steering is handled by an Electric Power Steering (EPS) rack, paired with ventilated front discs and solid rear discs, along with an Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) as standard. It rides on 235/55 R19 tyres across all variants. During the 2021 China Car Performance Challenge (CCPC) track trials, the T5 EVO showcased class-leading dynamic stability thanks to its driver-focused chassis tuning and generous mechanical grip limits. The onboard Bosch 9.3 Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) further refines driving dynamics and active safety over slippery tarmac.
On the infotainment and connectivity front, all T5 EVO variants feature a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen paired with a fully digital instrument cluster. Higher-spec trims are upgraded with the Future Link 4.0 Tencent Smart Link system, which integrates in-car WeChat (supporting voice-to-text messaging and location sharing), Tencent ecosystem apps, and full-duplex voice control with an accuracy rate of up to 97%. Over-the-air (OTA) updates, Internet of Vehicles (IoV), Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, and smartphone remote controls are standard across the range, with selected grades supporting HUAWEI HiCar screen mirroring.
Convenience and comfort amenities include a multifunction steering wheel, automatic climate control, rear air vents, and an in-cabin PM2.5 air purifier as standard. Higher-spec grades add perforated NAPPA leather sports seats with electric adjustments, seat heating, ventilation, and massage functions for the front occupants (multi-level adjustments controllable via voice command). Thanks to its generous wheelbase, the T5 EVO offers ample rear legroom, a completely flat rear floor, and up to 37 practical storage cubbies throughout the cabin.
Structural safety is a key highlight, with high-strength steel making up 58% to 76% of the T5 EVO's body-in-white. Critical load-bearing structures such as the A- and B-pillar reinforcements utilise hot-stamped steel with tensile strengths reaching 1,500 MPa. Engineered to meet five-star crash safety benchmarks, the vehicle incorporates strategically placed crumple zones on the front end and chassis. Passive safety equipment on higher trims includes 6 airbags (dual front, front side, and full-length curtain airbags) plus a driver's knee airbag, alongside ISOFIX child seat anchor points as standard across the range.
In terms of active safety and driver assistance, the SUV is equipped with a full-speed Level 2+ ADAS suite driven by a Mobileye EyeQ4 processor and an array of 17 sensors (including two millimetre-wave radars). Key features include Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop & Go, Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with vehicle and pedestrian detection, Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), and Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR). The flagship variant adds Automated Parking Assist (APA), a transparent chassis view, Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) to minimise blind spots and driver fatigue. Pre-tensioner seatbelts with load limiters are standard for the front seats, while the PM2.5 air filtration system and dual-zone climate control ensure optimal cabin air quality and comfort in all driving conditions.
Since its introduction, the T5 EVO has enjoyed considerable success in the domestic C-segment SUV market, bolstered by its striking aesthetics and competitive "RM100,000-class" pricing. On the home front, the model recorded monthly sales approaching nearly 10,000 units shortly after launch. Internationally, the T5 EVO has demonstrated immense global versatility. In 2022, it made its European debut at the Automechanika Frankfurt (AMF) show via Alibaba.com's digital platform, pioneering digital export avenues into the European automotive landscape. In January 2026, Dongfeng Forthing officially commenced operations at its completely knocked-down (CKD) assembly plant in Cairo, Egypt, rolling off its first locally assembled T5 EVO unit. This marked the brand's transition from straightforward CBU exports to a holistic "technology + manufacturing + ecosystem" global expansion strategy, cementing the model's role as a strategic foothold in North Africa with reach into the Middle East and Europe. In May 2026, the SUV took centre stage once again at the Poznań Motor Show in Poland under the "Forthing T-FIVE" banner.
To provide added peace of mind, Dongfeng Forthing backs the T5 EVO with a lifetime warranty on major powertrain components (engine and transmission) for the first owner, alongside an extensive 8-year or 160,000 km manufacturer vehicle warranty. Beyond its commercial numbers, the T5 EVO not only spearheaded Dongfeng Forthing's evolution from a commercial vehicle specialist into a dynamic passenger vehicle brand, but also exemplifies how Chinese carmakers are leveraging expressive design, advanced powertrain integration, and robust global supply chains to position "Smart Manufacturing in China" as a compelling alternative to traditional joint-venture marques worldwide.
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