The Dongfeng Forthing Lingzhi PLUS is a mid-to-large commercial MPV under the Dongfeng Forthing brand, positioned within the higher-tier lineup of the Lingzhi family. Originally introduced around 2020, the model has undergone several model-year updates, with the latest 2027 iteration launched as of March 2026. The Lingzhi PLUS is tailored for entrepreneurs and micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) owners for corporate transport and multi-passenger travel, highlighting its generous cabin space, dual sliding doors, and strong value proposition as key selling points. Within the Dongfeng Forthing stable, the Lingzhi PLUS and Lingzhi M5 make up the brand's MPV lineup, with the PLUS positioned above the M5 with a stronger emphasis on business appeal.
Pricing-wise, the 2027 Lingzhi PLUS is offered in 3 variants: the Basic 7-Seater carries an official launch price of RM89,900 (RM79,900 via trade-in promo), the Luxury 7-Seater is priced at RM99,900 (RM89,900 via trade-in promo), and the Luxury 9-Seater retails at RM101,900 (RM91,900 via trade-in promo). The brand officially bills it as the "first domestic RM70,000-class wide-body large commercial MPV with dual sliding doors". Alongside the petrol model, the Lingzhi PLUS is also available in a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) variant, primarily catering to commercial fleet operators and running cost-conscious buyers.
In terms of styling, the Lingzhi PLUS retains the understated and commanding commercial aesthetic of the Lingzhi series. Up front, a horizontal chrome grille seamlessly integrates with the headlamp clusters, lending the vehicle a boxy and robust front fascia. A relatively flat roofline helps maximise interior headroom and packaging efficiency. The window surrounds feature black trim, while a full-length shoulder line complements the lower door garnishes to accentuate the side profile's layered look. The rear styling remains clean and functional, topped by a subtle roof spoiler and distinctive, irregularly shaped tail lamps. Across the range, the Lingzhi PLUS comes standard with dual side sliding doors for effortless passenger access and cargo loading.
Dimensionally, the Lingzhi PLUS measures 5,170 mm in length, 1,920 mm in width, and 1,935 mm in height, riding on a 3,198 mm wheelbase. These proportions place it comfortably among mid-to-large MPVs, while the upright profile delivers generous vertical cabin room. Inside, the cabin takes a utilitarian approach, equipped with a four-spoke multi-function steering wheel and an LCD instrument cluster, with an optional central infotainment screen available. Higher-spec variants can also be fitted with optional faux-wood flooring and upscale trim finishes to elevate the executive transport ambience.
In terms of powertrain, the Lingzhi PLUS offers two energy types—petrol and CNG natural gas—to suit different commercial and transport requirements.
The petrol lineup is powered across the board by a longitudinally mounted 2.0-litre naturally aspirated engine (coded DAN20L), producing 110 kW (approx. 150 PS) and 204 Nm of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a 5-speed manual transmission in a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout. Under WLTC testing, combined fuel consumption ranges between 9.3 and 9.9 L/100 km. Top speed figures vary slightly across trims, comfortably meeting daily driving requirements. Earlier model year iterations (2024–2025 models) also offered a 1.5-litre turbocharged unit delivering around 140 kW (190 PS) and 300 Nm of torque, mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox.
The CNG variant employs a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated engine running on compressed natural gas, rated at approximately 86 kW (117 PS) and 174 Nm of peak torque, paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox. It is fitted with a 150L–180L gas cylinder, providing an estimated pure-gas range of 320 km; combined with a 15L petrol reserve tank, total driving range reaches 480–580 km. The CNG model's main appeal lies in its substantially lower running costs, making it well-suited for high-mileage commercial fleets.
The Lingzhi PLUS adopts a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout across the range, an architecture that enhances driving wheel traction when fully laden or ascending steep inclines. Underneath, it features a monocoque chassis with front MacPherson independent struts and a five-link coil-spring non-independent rear suspension. Compared to the leaf spring setups commonly found on commercial MPVs in this price bracket, the five-link coil-spring rear arrangement offers noticeably superior ride comfort and stability, doing a far better job of absorbing road imperfections while keeping body roll in check through bends and over rough tarmac. Steering is handled by an electric power steering system with speed-sensitive assistance, offering light handling during low-speed parking and a reassuringly weighted feel at highway speeds.
Braking duties are handled by ventilated front discs and solid rear discs, with an Electronic Parking Brake standard across the range. Tyre specifications vary by variant, tuned specifically for everyday commercial and personal use. The chassis setup strikes a practical balance between comfort and payload capacity; on the road, it remains composed even under full load, displaying commendable lateral body control.
The interior of the Lingzhi PLUS is designed with practicality and spatial versatility at its core. It is offered in two seating configurations: a 7-seater (2+2+3) and a 9-seater (2+2+2+3). Dedicated rear air-conditioning vents come standard to ensure passenger comfort across all three rows. Folding down the rear seats opens up enough cargo space to easily swallow five to six 24-inch suitcases, offering class-leading loading capacity. Notably, the boot aperture measures 1,232 mm wide with a maximum interior height of 1,250 mm, making the loading of bulky cargo effortless.
On the tech front, upper-tier models can be equipped with an optional 10.25-inch central infotainment touchscreen with essential connectivity features such as Bluetooth and hands-free telephony. A multi-function steering wheel and faux leather upholstery are standard on higher grades. Furthermore, select CNG variants offer premium options such as a right-side power sliding door, wooden flooring, and a large-ratio rear axle. A standard four-speaker audio system handles basic in-car entertainment.
In terms of active safety, all variants of the Lingzhi PLUS are fitted with essential electronic driver aids as standard, including Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA/EBA/BAS), Traction Control (TCS/ASR/TRC), and Electronic Stability Programme (ESP). Upper variants also gain Hill-Start Assist Control. A Tyre Pressure Monitoring System is standard across the board, providing real-time pressure alerts. For parking convenience, higher-spec models feature rear reverse sensors and a reverse camera.
Passive safety is covered by standard dual front airbags for the driver and front passenger. The body shell utilizes a high-strength safety cage design to effectively disperse collision forces and maintain the integrity of the passenger cell, while ISOFIX child seat tethers are standard throughout. In terms of advanced driver assistance, the Lingzhi PLUS does not feature Level 2 or higher ADAS systems; its safety suite remains strictly entry-level and functional, relying on foundational active safety systems like ESP to manage day-to-day driving safety.
The Lingzhi PLUS is a key volume driver within Dongfeng Forthing's broader Lingzhi nameplate. Geared towards MSME business owners, the Lingzhi series has garnered over 1.18 million owners as of April 2026, commanding a 32% market share to comfortably lead China's commercial MPV segment. As one of China's pioneer domestic MPV marques, Dongfeng Forthing exports to 128 countries and regions worldwide, serving over 2.5 million customers globally. In April 2026, the Lingzhi series registered 459 units in monthly sales, ranking second within the Dongfeng Forthing lineup.
On the ownership front, positive customer feedback routinely praises the cavernous interior space, the convenience of dual sliding doors, and the reassuring chassis stability. In a segment where leaf spring setups remain the norm at this price point, the Lingzhi PLUS's upgrade to a five-link coil-spring rear suspension has earned notable praise for its superior ride comfort and road composure. Conversely, consumer grievances primarily touch upon occasional power cut-offs during high-speed cruising and sluggish acceleration on select powertrain variants. The omission of ESP on certain base trims has also drawn criticism. On the whole, bolstered by its RM70,000-class entry price, wide-body proportions, dual sliding doors, flexible cabin layouts, and coil-sprung rear comfort, the Lingzhi PLUS delivers strong, pragmatic value in the entry-level commercial MPV segment—making it a dependable multi-purpose workhorse for entrepreneurs, MSME operators, and high-frequency fleet users.
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