The SWM G01F is a compact sporty SUV introduced by the SWM brand under Shineray Group. As a performance-styled derivative of the G01 range, the G01F debuted at the Guangzhou Auto Show in November 2018, targeting younger drivers seeking distinct styling and driving excitement with its aggressive bodywork, sporty trim, and strong value proposition. In May 2019, the all-new SWM G01F officially went on sale with a retail price of RM95,900–RM125,900 (a noticeable price reduction from the predecessor's RM103,900–RM147,900). Sold alongside the standard G01, it primarily competed against mainstream C-segment SUVs such as the Haval H6/F7, Geely Boyue, and Changan CS75.
Dimension-wise, the G01F came in several sizing configurations across facelifts and trim levels: early iterations measured 4,610 × 1,855 × 1,725 mm (L × W × H) with a 2,750 mm wheelbase, while the 2019 iteration and later extended-body versions grew to 4,670 × 1,855 × 1,740 mm, retaining the 2,750 mm wheelbase. This wheelbase offered a class-leading advantage over contemporary rivals like the Haval H6 (2,680 mm) and Lynk & Co 01 (2,734 mm). It features a 52-litre fuel tank, a kerb weight of 1,520–1,575 kg, a monocoque chassis, and a standard five-door, five-seater layout.
Visually, the G01F stands out with an aggressive, high-impact aesthetic—the primary differentiator from the standard G01. The front end is dominated by a gloss-black, high-density wing-spread sports grille, flanked by "F"-motif aero trims, an aggressive body kit, and a rear spoiler, delivering a bold, track-inspired aesthetic. Combining design cues reminiscent of German performance kits with SWM’s proprietary "Knight’s Soul" styling language, it creates the athletic stance of a coupe-SUV. Out back, arrow-profile LED tail lamps and twin polished sports exhaust tips further underline its athletic character. Seven exterior paint options were offered, comprising red, white, and blue solid finishes, alongside three two-tone combinations (Red/Black, White/Black, and Blue/Black) to cater to younger buyers.
The cabin carries over the "Knight’s Soul" theme, elevating the standard car's clean layout with extra sporting flair. A dual-tone interior scheme is accented with vibrant yellow or fluorescent highlights on the trim garnishes, gear lever, and seat piping to break up the monochromatic black cabin. The dashboard is generously lined in suede-like trim, complemented by carbon-look inserts and sports seats upholstered in leather/leatherette for a more upmarket, sporty vibe. A flat-bottom multi-function sports steering wheel (in urethane or leather) frames a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, paired with a 10-inch central touchscreen infotainment display running the E-go smart connectivity system. With physical switchgear kept to a minimum, the cabin strikes a neat balance between clean minimalism and modern technology.
Under the bonnet, the entire SWM G01F lineup is powered by the DG15T 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, set in a transverse layout with multi-point fuel injection (MPI). Output is rated at 115 kW (approx. 156 PS), while peak torque varies slightly by market calibration: 220 Nm for domestic units and 212 Nm for export models. Transmission choices originally included a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque-converter automatic (6AT) , with later export models receiving a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (7DCT) . Power is directed exclusively to the front wheels (FWD), offering an easy-driving everyday road setup with a mild sporty edge.
Official top speed and 0–100 km/h acceleration figures have not been formally published. It runs comfortably on RON 92 petrol. Fuel consumption under China's MIIT combined cycle stands at 7.2 L/100 km for the manual and 7.5 L/100 km for the automatic, on par with typical 1.5T engines in this segment. Power delivery is linear and progressive, tuned primarily for daily urban driving. This relaxed powertrain calibration presents a noticeable contrast to its aggressive, race-ready exterior, prompting feedback from some drivers that while the car looks fast, performance remains modest.
Underneath, the SWM G01F rides on a four-wheel independent setup with front MacPherson struts and a rear multi-link suspension, tuned in collaboration with an international engineering team. Compared to the torsion beam rear axles common in this class, the multi-link rear end provides superior wheel articulation and lateral stability, curbing body roll through corners and enhancing high-speed stability as well as ride comfort. Steering is handled by an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system, supported by ventilated front and solid rear disc brakes with an Electronic Parking Brake (EPB), alongside standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD). Wheel setups comprise 225/60 R17 or 235/55 R18 tyres (variant-dependent) mounted on sporty alloy rims. While the monocoque chassis provides respectable structural rigidity, its front-wheel-drive configuration and family-oriented brief mean the G01F eschews dedicated sports suspension hardware or AWD, delivering a sensible compromise between pliant comfort and light-hearted handling.
In terms of cabin tech, the G01F is tailored to meet the preferences of younger drivers. Standard equipment across the range includes keyless entry with push-start ignition, while range-topping variants add a powered tailgate and rear privacy glass. Infotainment is handled by SWM's E-go connected system, incorporating smart voice control, remote vehicle telematics, online navigation, 4G in-car connectivity, and an online app ecosystem. Essential functions like navigation, media playback, and climate settings can be managed hands-free via voice commands, complemented by smartphone mirroring and Bluetooth telephony. Climate control is managed via automatic air conditioning, while the audio setup features 4 to 6 speakers depending on the trim. Blue ambient cabin lighting, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and numerous practical storage cubbies complete a cabin that blends functionality with modern flair.
On the safety front, the SWM G01F is well-equipped with passive and active protection systems. It features a high-rigidity safety cage constructed with high-strength steel in critical load-bearing areas. Airbag coverage starts with dual front airbags as standard, expanding to side airbags and full-length curtain airbags on higher variants for up to 6 airbags in total. Active safety gear across the range includes a direct Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and ABS+EBD. Higher-spec models add a 360-degree HD surround-view camera, Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Blind Spot Detection (BSD), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), and Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) for comprehensive protection during commutes and highway driving. Standard safety appointments also include ISOFIX child-seat anchors and crash-sensing automatic door unlocking.
In terms of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), the G01F provides Level 1 to Level 2 driver assistance capabilities. While it lacks high-level highway navigation pilot functions (Level 2+), the inclusion of ACC, AEB, and blind-spot monitoring is relatively generous for an internal-combustion compact SUV in this price segment, offering commendable safety and driving convenience.
At launch, the SWM G01F gained notable traction in the competitive compact SUV arena, driven by its aggressive sports styling, generous dimensions, and competitive pricing. The broader G01 series (including the G01F) logged an impressive 3,680 units within its first three days on sale, with cumulative volume surpassing 10,000 units by its second month. However, market shifts and brand recognition hurdles saw sales taper off sharply over time. By October 2023, monthly sales for the entire SWM G01 lineup dropped to just 376 units, positioning it as a niche contender in a crowded segment.
On the international front, the G01F remains a core component of SWM's global expansion. SWM Auto currently retails the G01, G01F, and G05Pro in the Russian market, with plans to introduce a refreshed G01F featuring revised specifications and an upgraded powertrain in summer 2026. In November 2022, the first consignment of SWM G01F vehicles was exported from Shineray's Fuling Industrial Park in Chongqing to Germany, marking the group’s first passenger car shipment to Europe and securing a foothold in a mature automotive market. By 2025, SWM brand vehicles were sold across nearly 50 countries and regions worldwide, backed by an international network of over 2,000 service touchpoints.
In consumer reviews, the SWM G01F is often commended for its bold road presence, upmarket cabin textures, spacious seating, and good ride comfort. Conversely, limited brand equity, a relatively small sales and service footprint, and steeper depreciation remain key obstacles to broader commercial success. Overall, the G01F represents a pivotal milestone in SWM's evolution from purely utilitarian vehicles toward youthful, sporty personal mobility. With its distinctive factory sports kit and export milestones, it stands as an intriguing example of an independent Chinese automaker navigating sporty niche segments and international markets.
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