Jinbei Jinhaishi M Classic

Model Overview

The Jinbei Jinhaishi M Classic is a mid-size multi-purpose MPV produced under the Jinbei marque by Shineray Auto (formerly Brilliance Shineray). Positioned in the budget-friendly RM50,000 dual-purpose "commercial and family" segment, it first debuted in 2022 and received a facelift in 2024. Bridging the gap between conventional window vans and passenger MPVs, it adopts a "front-engine layout + MPV styling" ethos tailored for petty traders, large households, and dual-purpose transport operators. Available in 2022 to 2024 model iterations, the Jinhaishi M Classic offers 1.5L and 1.6L petrol engine options across variants like the Engineering Lion, Travel Lion, E-Commerce Edition, and Panda Edition, with official retail pricing spanning RM50,900 to RM59,900. Buyers can choose between 5-seater, 6-seater, and 7-seater configurations in either passenger van or panel van body styles, backed by an 8-year or 200,000 km manufacturer warranty.

Design Language

The Jinhaishi M Classic embraces a "front-engine + aerodynamic MPV silhouette" concept, imparting a distinctly car-like profile compared to traditional cab-over vans. Up front, a bold polygonal grille with horizontal chrome louvres seamlessly integrates with the headlamp clusters, delivering a neat and cohesive front fascia. Along the sides, clean and straight character lines complement the prominent bonnet—a front-engine structure that provides an extended crumple zone during frontal impacts, delivering superior passive safety over traditional flat-front vans. At the rear, a top-hinged liftback tailgate opens wide to facilitate hassle-free loading and unloading of cargo.

In terms of exterior dimensions, the Jinhaishi M Classic measures 4,575 mm long, 1,700 mm wide, and 1,925 mm tall, sitting on a 2,960 mm wheelbase. An approach angle of 24° and a departure angle of 29° ensure decent ground clearance and ramp-over capability under full load. Exterior paint choices include Black, Global White, Pearl White, Brown, Blue, and Grey, while the cabin can be trimmed in Beige, Black, or Brown.

Inside, the cabin takes a utilitarian, function-first approach. Mid-to-high spec variants gain an 8-inch central touchscreen infotainment unit supporting Bluetooth hands-free connectivity and a reverse camera, whereas entry-level trims settle for a conventional AM/FM radio head unit. The cockpit is fitted with a durable 3-spoke plastic steering wheel and a floor-mounted manual gear lever. Seating upholstery is hard-wearing fabric in the Engineering Lion, upgraded to leatherette in the Travel Lion and E-Commerce Edition. Air-conditioning is managed via tactile rotary dials and physical buttons for straightforward, fuss-free operation on the go.

Powertrain & Performance

The Jinhaishi M Classic is powered by a choice of 1.5L or 1.6L naturally aspirated petrol engines, paired exclusively with a 5-speed manual transmission driving the rear wheels (FR layout). Both powerplants comply with China 6 emissions standards and run on RON 92 petrol or higher.

1.5L Engine: Codenamed SWD15F, it develops a maximum output of 82 kW (112 PS) and a peak torque of 146 N·m, with peak torque delivered between 3,500 and 4,500 rpm. Marketed as the "Diamond" powertrain, owners report sprightly initial take-off and ample low-end pull for day-to-day driving.

1.6L Engine: Delivers a maximum output of 88 kW (120 PS) and 155 N·m of peak torque, primarily serving the heavy-duty panel van variants.

The vehicle hits a top speed of 120 km/h and features a 45-litre fuel tank. Kerb weight stands at 1,320 kg, with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 1,770 kg. Real-world fuel consumption averages around 6.5 L/100 km under laden conditions and can drop to approximately 5.0 L/100 km during long-distance highway cruising.

Chassis & Handling

Built on a monocoque chassis, the Jinhaishi M Classic utilizes a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration. The front axle is suspended by MacPherson independent struts, while the rear relies on a heavy-duty leaf spring rigid axle setup. While the rear leaf springs are engineered for heavy payloads and high occupant capacity, they result in a firmer, bouncier ride when driven unladen. An Electric Power Steering (EPS) system is fitted, which drivers praise for its light, effortless low-speed maneuvering and decent road feedback. Braking is handled by front ventilated discs (solid discs on selected trims) and rear drums, paired with a conventional mechanical handbrake. It rides on 185/60 R15 tyres with an underslung full-size spare tyre. Ingress and egress are served by conventional front doors and dual sliding rear side doors, balancing passenger access with loading versatility.

Cabin & Practicality

Cabin practicality and modular seating are the defining strengths of the Jinhaishi M Classic. Benefiting from its 4,575 mm length and generous 2,960 mm wheelbase, it offers commendable legroom and cargo volume. Seating layouts include 5-seater (2+3), 6-seater (2+2+2 or 2+3+2), and 7-seater (2+2+3) arrangements, effortlessly accommodating everything from delivery runs to family road trips. Feedback indicates the cavernous interior comfortably fulfills the "one vehicle for both work and play" brief popular among local small business owners.

In-cabin equipment is tiered across the range: the Travel Lion and E-Commerce Edition feature an 8-inch central touchscreen unit integrated with a reverse camera and Bluetooth phone connectivity, while the base Engineering Lion variant omits the touchscreen. USB charging ports and a 2-speaker audio system are standard across the board. Standard comfort features include manual air conditioning, front power windows, and a remote key fob, with rear air-con blowers available as a cost option. Storage cubbies and cupholders are scattered thoughtfully throughout the cabin for daily convenience.

Safety & Driver Assistance

Passive safety provisions on the Jinhaishi M Classic vary significantly across the variant hierarchy. The 2024 E-Commerce Edition comes equipped with dual front (driver and passenger) airbags as standard; the 2024 Travel Lion includes a driver airbag with an optional front passenger airbag; the 2022 Engineering Lion omits airbags entirely. Standard safety kit across all models includes rear ISOFIX child seat mounting points, a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), and a driver seatbelt reminder. The front-engine layout provides an extended front crumple zone compared to traditional flat-nosed vans, noticeably improving crashworthiness.

On the active safety front, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) come standard, though advanced electronic driver aids like Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Traction Control (TCS), and Electronic Stability Programme (ESP/DSC) are absent. For parking assistance, the Travel Lion and E-Commerce Edition get rear parking sensors and a reverse camera, which are omitted on the base Engineering Lion. Advanced systems like cruise control and Level 2 ADAS driver aids are not offered.

Market Performance & Verdict

Thanks to its accessible RM50,000 price point, safer front-engine packaging, and highly flexible seating configurations, the Jinhaishi M Classic has carved out a solid niche in the entry-level multi-purpose commercial vehicle market. Core strengths praised by owners include its pocket-friendly price bracket (RM50,000–RM60,000), cavernous 5/6/7-seater cabin, better crash safety over cab-over vans, effortless EPS steering, and low running costs (averaging 5.0–6.5 L/100 km). On the flip side, key drawbacks include bare-bones safety on base variants (no airbags), a harsh unladen ride from the rear leaf springs, a cabin dominated by hard plastics, and sporadic complaints regarding auxiliary components such as air-con blower fan failures.

Primary rivals in this space include the Wuling Hongguang, Changan Honor S, and Dongfeng Fengguang 380. The Jinhaishi M Classic sets itself apart through its car-like MPV silhouette and front-engine layout. Based on data from automotive quality platforms like 12365auto, the model has recorded minor quality grievances; notably, the 2024 Travel Lion passenger variant received complaints regarding "blower motor failure with manufacturer parts shortages," pointing to room for improvement in after-sales spare parts support.

In summary, the Jinbei Jinhaishi M Classic carves out a distinct market position with its compelling formula of a "front engine + MPV styling + RM50,000 pricing". For budget-conscious business owners and families seeking maximum practicality, decent safety, and low operating costs, it stands out as an honest, utilitarian workhorse. However, beefing up baseline safety equipment and strengthening after-sales parts availability will be crucial for upcoming model updates.