Wuling Hongguang S3

Vehicle Overview

The Wuling Hongguang S3 is a mid-size SUV from SAIC-GM-Wuling's Wuling brand, officially launched on 10 November 2017. As the brand's first-ever SUV, the S3 is built on an upgraded version of the classic Hongguang S platform, marking Wuling's strategic transition from commercial microvans into the passenger vehicle segment. The lineup offers two powertrain options—a 1.5L naturally aspirated and a 1.5T turbocharged engine—paired exclusively with a 6-speed manual gearbox in a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive (FR) layout. Models currently on sale mainly comprise the 2019 and 2020 model years, with official prices ranging between RM60,100 and RM82,800. The 2025 model-year pricing was revised to RM66,800 to RM79,800. Available in 5-seater and 7-seater configurations, its primary rivals include entry-level mid-size SUVs in the same class, such as the Changan Oshan X70A.

Design Language

The Wuling Hongguang S3 features Wuling’s signature family design, sporting a bold hexagonal front grille with a black honeycomb mesh and the Wuling badge prominently positioned in the centre, giving it an upright, rugged stance. The side profile displays clean, flowing character lines, with selected higher-spec variants sporting a floating roof design for an added touch of style. The rear is cleanly styled with a concealed exhaust outlet beneath the bumper. In terms of dimensions, the vehicle measures 4,655 mm in length, 1,735 mm in width, and 1,790 mm in height (1,780 mm on higher-spec variants), with a generous 2,800 mm wheelbase. Exterior colour options include Aurora Silver, Starry Night Blue, Metallic Red, Candy White, and Earth Brown.

Inside, the S3 features a two-tone black and orange cabin scheme, delivering a youthful and vibrant feel. The dashboard is fitted with an 8-inch floating touchscreen infotainment display, flanked by an analogue quartz clock between the central air-con vents—a rare premium touch in this price bracket that elevates the cabin ambience. The steering wheel is moulded in durable urethane, while selected variants receive an 11-inch digital instrument cluster. Due to cost constraints, hard plastics are used extensively throughout the interior, though they offer the benefit of long-lasting durability and easy maintenance.

Powertrain & Performance

The Wuling Hongguang S3 comes with a choice of two petrol powerplants: a 1.5L naturally aspirated unit and a 1.5T turbocharged engine. The 1.5L engine produces a maximum output of 73 kW (99 PS) and a peak torque of 140 Nm, accessible between 3,400 and 4,400 rpm. The punchier 1.5T engine delivers 108 kW (147 PS) and 250 Nm of peak torque between 2,200 and 3,400 rpm. Both engines are paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. Top speed is rated at 150 km/h for the 1.5L variant and 175 km/h for the 1.5T variant. On the NEDC cycle, the 1.5L model returns a combined fuel economy of 6.9 L/100 km, with a WLTC figure of 7.59 L/100 km. In real-world driving conditions, the 1.5L averages around 8.5 L/100 km, dropping to approximately 7 L/100 km during highway cruising. It runs on RON 92 petrol and has a 49-litre fuel tank. The vehicle is backed by a three-year or 60,000 km manufacturer warranty.

Chassis & Handling

Underneath, the Wuling Hongguang S3 employs a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive (RWD) setup. Up front, it rides on MacPherson strut independent suspension, while the rear setup varies by trim—entry-level variants feature a coil-spring non-independent rigid axle, whereas higher-spec variants are upgraded to a multi-link independent rear suspension. Steering is handled by an electric power steering (EPS) system built over a monocoque body structure. Stopping power comes from ventilated front discs and rear drum brakes, paired with a traditional mechanical handbrake. It rides on 205/65 R16 tyres and includes a full-size spare tyre. Approach and departure angles are rated at 22° and 25° respectively. Kerb weight stands at 1,380 kg with a maximum gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 1,950 kg. The suspension setup strikes a balance between comfort and payload hauling—it feels somewhat firm and bouncy over speed bumps unladen, but settles down and feels significantly more planted when carrying loads.

Cabin & Practicality

On the equipment front, the S3 comes with an 8-inch central touchscreen supporting a reverse camera and smartphone connectivity. Upper-tier variants add convenient amenities such as cruise control and a multifunction steering wheel. The cabin features a 2+2+3 7-seater layout. The second-row individual seats offer slide and recline adjustments, complete with a centre aisle for easy access to the third row. The rear seats fold completely flat into the boot floor, massively expanding cargo volume. Even with all seven seats up, usable luggage room remains, and folding the two rear rows transforms it into a practical load-carrier rivaling a small commercial van. USB charging ports are provided across all three rows. Other practical driving aids include a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Hill-Start Assist (HSA).

Safety & Driver Assistance

Safety-wise, the Wuling Hongguang S3 comes standard with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) across the entire lineup. Higher-spec variants add Electronic Stability Control (ESC). For passive safety, a driver airbag is standard (the front passenger airbag is omitted on entry-level models). A tyre pressure monitoring system and ISOFIX child seat anchors are standard across the range. For advanced driver aids, the S3 does not offer Level 2 ADAS, lacking features such as Lane Departure Warning (LDW) or Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB).

Market Performance & Verdict

As Wuling’s pioneering SUV, the Hongguang S3 quickly garnered market attention thanks to its sub-RM60,000 starting price bracket, long 2,800 mm wheelbase, and practical 7-seater configuration. On the sales front, it recorded 169 units in April 2026. In terms of value retention, its first-year resale value stands at approximately 73.9%. In 2025, the Wuling Hongguang S3 bagged first place in the Compact MPV segment of the J.D. Power China Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS).

Owner reviews generally praise its interior practicality, exterior styling, and value for money. However, its drawbacks are equally evident: the 1.5L engine lacks punch, requiring early downshifts when overtaking at highway speeds; the gearbox is prone to whine and shift jerkiness between first and second gears; cabin insulation is average with noticeable high-speed noise; and the interior has a heavy plastic feel. Some owners have also reported premature failure of the propeller shaft centre bearing requiring a complete propshaft replacement (costing upwards of RM2,000), alongside occasional engine stalling issues. On the whole, the Wuling Hongguang S3 capitalises on its RWD layout, extra-long 2,800 mm wheelbase, flexible 7-seater space, and highly accessible pricing in the RM60,000 range to carve out a compelling proposition focused on sheer utility. Nevertheless, constrained by powertrain refinement, overall build quality, and fierce market competition, there remains noticeable headroom for improvement.