SWM G01 Sport

Model Overview

The SWM G01 Sport is a compact sports SUV launched by the SWM brand under Shineray Group, serving as the sportier iteration of the G01 lineup. The vehicle made its public debut in June 2018 at the Chongqing International Auto Show and was officially launched at the Chengdu Motor Show later that year. Based on the standard G01, the G01 Sport gains an aggressive aero body kit, squarely targeting young buyers seeking individuality and a sporty flair.

In SWM's product naming hierarchy, two distinct sporty derivatives—"Sport" and "F"—coexist. The G01 Sport broke cover at the 2018 Beijing Auto Show featuring a bold and aggressive exterior styling; while the G01 F made its debut at the 2018 Guangzhou Auto Show, distinguished by subtle exterior cosmetic tweaks. In May 2019, the all-new SWM G01 F was officially launched with an official price tag ranging from RM95,900 to RM125,900, marking a notable price reduction against the outgoing model's RM103,900–RM147,900. The G01 Sport primarily rivals mainstream C-segment SUVs including the Haval H6, Geely Boyue, and Changan CS75.

In terms of dimensions, the G01 Sport measures 4,670 mm in length, 1,855 mm in width, and 1,740 mm in height (with certain variants measuring 4,610 × 1,855 × 1,725 mm), riding on a 2,750 mm wheelbase. Configured in a 5-door, 5-seater layout, its long wheelbase offers a competitive edge within its class. Boot space is rated at a generous 970 litres, and the 60:40 split-folding rear bench can be folded completely flat, significantly boosting cargo versatility and cabin space utilisation.

Design Language

Penned under the helm of Sotirios Kovos, Design Director at SWM's European Design Centre, the G01 Sport embodies the  "Knight's Soul" design philosophy, exuding Italian flair and athletic character inside out. The front fascia combines a wide-body stance with an arrow-themed front grille, complemented by Dark Knight LED headlights and an aggressive front bumper to deliver a poised, assertive road presence. The profile is defined by twin arrow-feather character lines and dual-tone alloy wheels, while the rear end accentuates its sporting credentials with dual chrome exhaust pipes and a silver rear diffuser.

Inside, the cabin features a driver-centric, sporty theme dominated by black tones, paired with seats trimmed in Italian genuine leather with vibrant contrast stitching. The dashboard houses a smart connected infotainment system with a three-screen setup and supports FOTA (Firmware Over-The-Air) updates. Drivers are treated to a flat-bottom multi-function steering wheel, alongside an electronic parking brake (EPB) with Auto Hold on the centre console. The G01 F model takes things up a notch with a dual-tone black and neon green interior with suede upholstery, delivering an even more striking visual punch.

Powertrain & Performance

Under the bonnet, the entire G01 Sport range is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine (engine code DG15T), churning out a maximum output of 115 kW (approx. 156 PS) and peak torque of 212–230 Nm depending on the state of tune. Select export variants feature the SWD15T powerplant producing around 110 kW. Employing multi-point fuel injection, it runs efficiently on RON 92 petrol, delivering commendable fuel economy.

Power is sent to the front wheels via either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed torque-converter automatic (AT) , with subsequent export batches upgraded to a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (DCT) . The drivetrain comes standard as a front-engine, front-wheel-drive (FWD) layout. While official top speed and 0–100 km/h sprint figures remain unannounced, combined fuel consumption is rated at around 7.2–7.5 L/100 km under WLTC testing. Power delivery is calibrated to be linear and progressive, ensuring smooth city cruising and seamless gear shifts without noticeable judder, geared primarily towards day-to-day driving comfort.

Chassis & Handling

Underpinnings-wise, the G01 Sport rides on an all-round independent suspension setup, comprising a front MacPherson strut and a rear multi-link setup. Compared to the torsion beam rear setups typical of its segment, the multi-link rear suspension delivers superior wheel tracking and lateral stability, curbing body roll effectively through high-speed cornering. The chassis is tuned with a distinctly European sporty profile—taut, planted, and offering ample lateral support in bends.

Handling is managed by an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system, with ABS, EBD, and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) fitted as standard for dependable baseline safety. Braking duties are handled by ventilated front discs and solid rear discs, paired with an electronic parking brake. It rides on 225/60 R18 or 235/55 R18 tyres wrapped around sporty alloy wheels. The G01 F variant steps up the visual aggression with bespoke sports alloy rims and twin dual polished exhaust outlets.

Cabin & Equipment

In the equipment department, the G01 Sport caters extensively to tech-savvy younger drivers. Keyless entry with push-start ignition comes standard across the range. Infotainment is handled by SWM's proprietary E-go intelligent connectivity system, packing voice command, an online app store, mobile remote vehicle telematics, connected GPS navigation, geo-fencing capabilities, and integrated security monitoring. A prominent 10-inch central touchscreen supports smartphone screen mirroring, online music streaming, connected car services, and OTA updates. A reverse camera, rear parking sensors, and a 4-to-6-speaker sound system are standard, while range-topping trims gain a 360-degree surround-view monitor. Air conditioning is manual, supplemented by dedicated rear air-con vents.

On the comfort front, higher variants are equipped with heated driver's seats with backrest ventilation, an electric panoramic sunroof with anti-pinch protection, and Follow-Me-Home headlamp functionality. Seats are draped in Italian genuine leather, with power multi-way adjustment for the driver.

Safety & Driver Assistance

Safety-wise, the G01 Sport is engineered to meet 5-star crash safety standards. Its body incorporates a high-rigidity safety cage reinforced with high-strength steel in structural zones. A comprehensive suite of 6 airbags (front dual, side, and curtain airbags) comes standard across the range, alongside ISOFIX child seat anchor points. Active safety kit includes ABS, EBD, Traction Control System (TCS), and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) across all trims.

For driver assistance, the G01 Sport is available with an optional Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) suite, bundling Blind Spot Detection (BSD), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) with Lane Keep Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). Selected high-spec variants also feature Forward Collision Warning (FCW) as standard. Higher variants further add an integrated driving video recorder (DVR/dashcam), a forward-facing camera, and full LED headlights. The overall active driver assist suite operates at Level 1 to Level 2 capabilities, focusing on core everyday driving aids.

Market Performance & Reception

The SWM G01 series (encompassing the G01, G01 Sport, and G01 F) got off to a flying start, chalking up 3,680 bookings within just three days of its domestic debut. Globally, the G01 Sport plays a pivotal role in SWM's overseas expansion. In November 2022, the maiden batch of SWM G01 F models rolled out from the Chongqing Fuling manufacturing base bound for Germany, marking Shineray Group's first passenger car shipment to Europe. The G01 Sport is currently marketed in various European markets, including Russia, Germany, Italy, and Spain, with the export 1.5T manual Comfort variant wearing an entry price of around EUR 27,990. By 2025, SWM's global footprint had expanded to nearly 50 countries and regions worldwide, backed by over 2,000 service touchpoints worldwide.

In the Russian market, however, SWM has faced headwinds. In the first two months of 2025, brand sales stood at just 101 units, marking a steep 91.3% drop year-on-year. According to data from Autostat, SWM's overall Russian sales plummeted by 92% in 2025, with roughly 35% of surveyed dealers speculating a potential market exit. Despite this, SWM continues to defend its foothold in the region.

In summary, the SWM G01 Sport serves as a strategic milestone for the marque, pivoting from utilitarian origins to a vibrant, youth-centric, and sporty brand persona. Boasting a striking design, four-wheel independent suspension, and an ambitious export footprint, it stands as a testament to Chinese independent carmakers venturing into niche sporty SUV segments on the global stage.