Dongfeng Forthing V8

Model Overview

The Dongfeng Forthing V8 is a large luxury MPV introduced by Dongfeng Forthing in 2025, serving as a flagship cornerstone under the brand's full-scale new energy transformation strategy. Making its official debut at Auto Shanghai in April 2025, the vehicle is positioned as a "new luxury flagship for the smart electric era" and is powered by a plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) powertrain. In terms of exterior dimensions, the V8 comfortably eclipses established joint-venture rivals like the Buick GL8 and Toyota Sienna. Combined with a massive front grille and a dual-tone paint scheme, its commanding road presence rivals million-ringgit luxury MPVs. Its headline selling points centre on "generous dimensions, immense cabin space, dual-fuel and electric versatility, and advanced intelligent driving", tailored primarily for corporate executive transport and multi-generational family use.

Design Language

The exterior styling of the Dongfeng Forthing V8 makes a striking visual statement. Up front, an imposing "waterfall" chrome-plated radiator grille is flanked by matrix LED headlamps and crowned by a full-width LED light bar, exuding an authoritative executive aura. The side profile features clean, elongated body lines, paired with a steeply raked A-pillar to optimise aerodynamic efficiency. Blacked-out B- and C-pillars create a sleek floating-roof effect, complemented by multi-spoke chrome alloy wheels that further enhance its premium look. At the rear, full-width LED taillights with downward-extending light blades house the central "FORTHING" lettering, echoing the front-end styling. Dimension-wise, the MPV measures 5,250 mm in length, 1,920 mm in width, and 1,810 mm in height, riding on a generous 3,018 mm wheelbase.

Inside, the V8 adopts an "encircling interstellar cockpit" design philosophy. The dashboard is dominated by a colossal 41-inch continuous triple-screen display (digital instrument cluster + central infotainment touchscreen + front passenger entertainment screen), delivering a futuristic cabin ambience. The interior is lavishly appointed with Nappa leather upholstery, genuine wood veneers, and metallic trim pieces, offered in an upscale dual-tone colour scheme. Seating is arranged in a 2+2+3 seven-seater layout, featuring individual aviation-grade captain chairs in the second row.

Powertrain and Performance

Powering the Dongfeng Forthing V8 is a 1.5-litre turbocharged plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system. The 1.5T petrol engine produces a maximum output of 113 kW (approx. 154 PS), which, working in tandem with the electric drive motor, generates a combined system output of 285 kW (approx. 387 PS) and 530 Nm of total torque. Power is sent to the front wheels via an E-CVT gearbox. The 0-100 km/h sprint is completed in 8.8 seconds, on to a top speed of 180 km/h.

Energy is stored in a 34.94 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack, providing a CLTC-rated pure electric range of 160 km. With a full tank of fuel and a full charge, the combined CLTC driving range exceeds 1,300 km, with fuel consumption in battery-depleted mode rated at just 6.2 L/100 km under the WLTC cycle. The vehicle supports DC fast charging, taking around 30 minutes to replenish from 30% to 80% state of charge, and features 3.3 kW Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) external power supply capability for outdoor power needs.

Chassis and Handling

The Dongfeng Forthing V8 is built on Dongfeng Group's latest S2-E architecture, a dedicated platform engineered specifically for large new energy MPVs with seamless battery-to-chassis integration. Suspension duties are handled by front MacPherson struts and a rear multi-link independent setup. The suspension is tuned for pliant ride comfort, effectively soaking up road imperfections, which, coupled with the long wheelbase and wide track, guarantees a serene and composed ride for rear passengers. Steering is managed by an Electric Power Steering system offering three selectable assist modes: Light, Standard, and Firm. Stopping power is provided by ventilated front discs and solid rear discs, paired with an Electronic Parking Brake (EPB).

Cabin and Equipment

The core strength of the Dongfeng Forthing V8 lies in its cavernous cabin space and extensive comfort amenities. The second-row "aviation seats" come equipped with multi-way power adjustments (including powered leg rests, backrests, and lumbar support), seat heating, ventilation, and massage functions, alongside integrated foldable tray tables. The third-row bench also offers generous headroom and legroom and features a 60:40 split-folding mechanism, expanding the standard boot capacity of 328 litres to over 1,700 litres.

In terms of convenience features, the V8 is equipped with dual power sliding doors (with key fob remote operation), a powered tailgate, a panoramic sunroof, tri-zone automatic climate control, rear privacy glass, and acoustic laminated glass all around. The infotainment unit is driven by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 processor, supporting four-zone voice recognition, over-the-air (OTA) updates, and a wide ecosystem of connected apps. An 8-speaker audio system comes standard, with an optional 12-speaker premium sound system available on higher-spec variants.

Safety and Intelligent Driving

On the active safety front, the Dongfeng Forthing V8 delivers Level 2+ Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). Standard across the range is the Forthing Intelligent Driving Assistance Suite, which bundles:

• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

• Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)

• Lane Departure Warning (LDW)

• Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)

• Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR)

• Blind Spot Detection (BSD)

• 360-degree surround-view camera and transparent chassis display

Higher-spec models further add automated lane change assist and intelligent parking assist.

For passive safety, the V8 employs a high-strength safety cage body structure, with high-strength steel accounting for over 70% of the shell and hot-stamped steel deployed across critical load-bearing areas. Cabin protection is provided by 6 airbags, comprising dual front airbags, front side airbags, and full-length side curtain airbags.

Market Performance and Overview

As a strategic model spearheaded to propel the brand into the premium MPV space, the Dongfeng Forthing V8 demonstrates formidable competitiveness in a crowded segment thanks to its segment-busting dimensions, fuel-sipping PHEV powertrain, and high-end smart features. Its key rivals include established mainstream mid-to-large MPVs such as the Buick GL8, Toyota Sienna, Denza D9, and Trumpchi M8. Following its global unveiling at Auto Shanghai 2025, the V8 garnered significant automotive buzz and was lauded as "a compelling attempt by a Chinese brand in the large luxury MPV arena." With an estimated indicative pricing between RM250,000 and RM350,000 (final official pricing pending as of August 2025), the V8 is set to mount a serious challenge against both joint-venture and domestic competitors through its potent formula of "grand dimensions, electrified efficiency, and generous standard specifications."