Livan Auto X3 PRO

Model Overview

The Livan Auto X3 PRO is a petrol-powered subcompact SUV under Livan Auto. Founded on 24 January 2022, Livan Auto is an all-new battery-swapping mobility brand under Geely Auto, established through a joint venture between Geely Auto and Lifan Technology. The X3 PRO made its official market debut on 13 May 2022, followed by an annual facelift update in March 2024. The 2024 lineup offers two variants: 1.5L Manual Xiao Meng and 1.5L CVT Xiao Sa; at initial launch, three variants were available: Xiao Shu, Xiao Meng, and Xiao Sa. The official retail price ranges from RM49,900 to RM67,900. Positioned as an entry-level subcompact SUV, its key rivals include segment contenders such as the Geely Vision X3 and Chery Tiggo 3x.

Design Language

The X3 PRO adopts Livan's signature family design styling. Up front, it features a quadrilateral grille with a blacked-out vertical waterfall insert, flanked by silver surround trims that seamlessly integrate into the headlamps. The headlight assemblies utilize halogen units, complemented by LED daytime running lights (DRLs) set into both sides of the front bumper. The side profile adopts a dynamic, forward-raked stance, highlighted by a sharp waistline running across the door handles to meet the tail lamps. Blacked-out finishes are applied to the wing mirrors, window frames, wheel arches, and lower side skirts. The rear end comes fitted with split tail lamp clusters, a roof spoiler, and a high-mounted third brake light. Dimension-wise, it measures 4,005 mm in length, 1,760 mm in width, and 1,575 mm in height, with a 2,480 mm wheelbase. Inside, the cabin sports an all-black colour scheme with vibrant orange contrast accents on the dashboard and door handles. It is equipped with a three-spoke flat-bottom multifunction steering wheel, an analogue instrument cluster, and an 8-inch floating infotainment display. The dashboard integrates full-width air-conditioning vents, retaining a row of tactile physical buttons below.

Powertrain and Performance

Powering the X3 PRO range is a JLC-4G15C 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, producing a maximum output of 83 kW (113 PS) and a peak torque of 143 Nm. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual gearbox and a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The top speed is rated at 170 km/h for the manual and 160 km/h for the automatic. Fuel consumption under the WLTC combined cycle stands at 6.8 L/100 km for the manual and 6.92 L/100 km for the CVT. It runs on RON 92 petrol and above. The vehicle comes with a 4-year or 100,000 km manufacturer warranty.

Ride and Handling

In terms of chassis setup, the X3 PRO utilizes front MacPherson independent struts paired with a rear torsion beam semi-independent suspension. The drivetrain is configured in a front-engine, front-wheel-drive (FWD) layout. Steering is handled by an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system. Braking performance is provided by ventilated discs up front and solid discs at the rear. It utilizes a conventional mechanical handbrake. Tyre dimensions are specified at 205/60 R16. The suspension tuning strikes a balance between ride comfort and ground clearance capability.

Cabin and Equipment

On the connectivity front, the X3 PRO comes standard with a floating 8-inch infotainment touchscreen. The infotainment unit supports Bluetooth, hands-free telephony, voice recognition, and smartphone screen-mirroring, though it omits connected car services and over-the-air (OTA) updates.

In terms of equipment, the entry-level variant (Manual Xiao Meng) comes standard with halogen headlamps, manual air conditioning, roof rails, power-adjustable and heated wing mirrors, dual front airbags, tyre pressure monitoring alert, rear parking sensors, a reverse camera, and cruise control. The cabin provides 26 practical storage cubbies throughout. The seats are wrapped in leatherette upholstery. The top-spec variant (CVT Xiao Sa) further adds an electric sunroof, smart key with keyless entry and push-start button, built-in driving video recorder (dashcam), 6-speaker audio system, automatic headlamps, all-round one-touch power windows with anti-pinch protection, and a rear windscreen wiper. Boot capacity is rated at 400 litres under standard configuration.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Safety-wise, the X3 PRO is engineered with a high-strength body structure and laser welding techniques. Passive safety includes dual front airbags for the driver and front passenger as standard. Active safety across the range features Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), and tyre pressure monitoring alert. Driver assistance features include rear parking sensors, a reverse camera, and cruise control. Higher-spec models offer optional Hill Start Assist (HSA) and Electronic Stability Programme (ESP).

Market Performance and Verdict

Following its market launch, the X3 PRO saw a dramatic turnaround in sales momentum from a sluggish start to strong performance. In 2024, full-year sales reached approximately 59,094 units; cumulative deliveries in 2025 stood at 26,443 units, with 6,873 units registered in June and 5,752 units in July. Compared with stablemate Geely Vision X3 and the Chery Tiggo 3x, the X3 PRO arrived later to market, offering a more competitive equipment package. In owner reviews, it is widely praised for its fuel frugality, youthful exterior styling, practical kit list, and strong value proposition. However, some owners have noted mechanical concerns such as clutch shudder. Overall, backed by its accessible price point, 1.5-litre powertrain, and functional features, the Livan X3 PRO has carved out a solid competitive presence in the RM50,000 to RM70,000 subcompact SUV segment, although brand recognition and after-sales service network coverage remain areas for ongoing improvement.