Dongfeng Forthing SX5

Model Overview

The Dongfeng Forthing SX5 is an all-new compact SUV introduced by the Dongfeng Forthing brand in 2025, serving as a pivotal model under the brand's full-scale new energy vehicle (NEV) strategy. Making its official debut at the Shanghai Auto Show in April 2025, the vehicle is positioned as a "smart electric SUV for the masses", targeting young family buyers seeking value for money and intelligent tech experiences. As one of the core models materialising Dongfeng Forthing’s "Photosynthetic Future" NEV strategy, the SX5 is available in both fully electric (EV) and extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) powertrains, directly rivalling contenders like the BYD Yuan PLUS, GAC AION Y, and Neta U. Slated for an official market launch in the second half of 2025, it carries an estimated price tag ranging from RM120,000 to RM160,000.

Design Language

On the exterior, the Dongfeng Forthing SX5 adopts the brand’s latest "Front Dynamics" design philosophy, exuding a youthful and contemporary flair. The front fascia features a closed-off grille to signify its NEV identity, complemented by a full-width LED daytime running light (DRL) strip and split headlamp units—sharp, slender upper DRLs sit above main headlamp clusters that blend seamlessly into the side air intakes. A trapezoidal lower intake on the front bumper adds visual depth and sportiness. Down the sides, the SX5 sports sleek, taut character lines with a gently sloping roofline that delivers a dynamic fastback profile. Flush pop-out door handles and aero-optimised alloy wheels further reduce aerodynamic drag. At the rear, it gets a full-width LED light bar with a dot-matrix internal graphic, anchored by central "FORTHING" lettering. Dimension-wise, it measures 4,565 mm in length, 1,860 mm in width, and 1,690 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,715 mm.

Inside, the SX5 embraces a "wrap-around intelligent cockpit" layout. The dashboard is headlined by a 15.6-inch floating touchscreen infotainment display paired with a 10.25-inch fully digital instrument cluster, providing a dual-screen linked setup. Extensive soft-touch materials are utilised across the cabin, accented by metallic trim pieces and ambient lighting to deliver a clean yet tech-laden ambience. The seats are wrapped in leatherette, with the front row featuring one-piece sports-style bucket seats.

Powertrain and Performance

The Dongfeng Forthing SX5 is offered in two powertrain configurations:

• Pure Electric Variant (EV) : Driven by a front-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor producing a maximum output of 150 kW (around 204 PS) and a peak torque of 310 Nm. Power is sent to the front wheels via a single-speed direct-drive transmission. The century sprint (0-100 km/h) is completed in 7.9 seconds, with a top speed of 160 km/h. Juicing the motor is a 60 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack, delivering a CLTC-rated range of 520 km. The vehicle supports DC fast charging, which takes around 30 minutes to replenish from 30% to 80% SoC, alongside 3.3 kW Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) external power supply. The CLTC energy consumption is rated at approximately 12.8 kWh/100 km.

• Extended-Range Electric Variant (EREV) : Pairs a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine acting as a dedicated range extender (delivering 70 kW) with a front drive motor (150 kW and 310 Nm), running in a front-wheel-drive setup. The 0-100 km/h sprint is clocked in 8.5 seconds. It is equipped with a 30 kWh LFP battery pack, providing a pure electric CLTC range of 180 km. With a full tank and full charge, the combined CLTC driving range exceeds 1,100 km. Under charge-depleting mode, its WLTC fuel economy is rated at around 5.8 L/100 km.

Chassis and Handling

Underpinning the Dongfeng Forthing SX5 is Dongfeng Group's latest EMA-E modular electric platform, purpose-built for NEVs to achieve integrated structural chassis-battery packaging. The suspension setup comprises front MacPherson struts and a rear multi-link independent suspension, tuned with a comfort bias to iron out road imperfections and deliver a plush, composed ride. The electric power steering (EPS) offers three selectable modes: Light, Standard, and Firm. Stopping power comes from ventilated discs up front and solid discs at the rear, complete with an Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) and Auto Brake Hold.

Cabin and Convenience Features

The Dongfeng Forthing SX5 comes in a five-seater configuration. The front integrated sports seats feature multi-way manual adjustment (powered on higher-spec variants) and seat heating, while the 60:40 split-folding rear bench folds down to create a virtually flat load bay. Boot capacity stands at 420 litres, expandable to 1,350 litres with the rear seats folded.

In terms of convenience features, the SUV gets automatic climate control, a panoramic glass roof with an electric sunblind, keyless entry with push-start button, and a powered tailgate (higher-spec variants). The infotainment system runs on the flagship Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 processor and centres around the 15.6-inch touchscreen, supporting four-zone voice command (for operating windows, climate control, navigation, and more), OTA software updates, and an integrated connected app suite (music, video streaming, navigation, etc.). Audio is channelled through a standard six-speaker sound system, with an eight-speaker premium audio system available on higher variants.

Safety and ADAS

On the active safety front, the Dongfeng Forthing SX5 meets Level 2+ advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) standards. The entire line-up comes standard with the Forthing Intelligent Driving Assistance Suite, packing features such as:

• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

• Lane Centring Control (LCC) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW)

• Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with pedestrian and vehicle detection

• Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR)

• Blind Spot Detection (BSD) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)

• 360-degree Surround View Camera with Transparent Chassis view

Flagship variants further add Automated Lane Change Assist and Automated Parking Assist. For passive safety, the SX5 is engineered with a high-strength safety cage using over 65% high-strength steel, alongside hot-stamped ultra-high-strength steel in critical load-bearing areas. Cabin protection is handled by six airbags, comprising dual front airbags, front side airbags, and full-length side curtain airbags.

Market Outlook and Reception

Representing a major strategic rollout for the brand in the NEV compact SUV segment, the Dongfeng Forthing SX5 presents a compelling package with its sharp styling, dual EV/EREV powertrain offerings, rich tech features, and an accessible price point estimated between RM120,000 and RM160,000. Key segment rivals include the BYD Yuan PLUS (RM131,800 to RM165,800), GAC AION Y (RM119,800 to RM153,800), and Neta U (RM120,800 to RM155,800). The SX5 holds its own against mainstream benchmarks with its generous 2,715 mm wheelbase and competitive 520 km CLTC range, while the range-extender variant offers a practical antidote to range anxiety. Following its showcase at the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, the SX5 generated considerable buzz, being hailed by the media as "another formidable Chinese contender in the RM150k electric SUV bracket." Nonetheless, in a hyper-competitive sub-RM150k Chinese NEV arena, brand cachet and dealership network reach will ultimately determine its long-term commercial success.