The Wuling Starlight is a new energy D-segment sedan launched by SAIC-GM-Wuling in late 2023, serving as the first "Super A-segment family sedan" under Wuling’s Silver Badge strategy. The 2025 model debuted in May 2025, offering a choice between plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and pure electric (EV) powertrains. Offering B-segment vehicle dimensions at an A-segment price point, its official recommended retail price ranges from RM79,800 to RM125,800, with a trade-in promotional price of RM76,800 to RM115,800.
Positioned as a mid-size sedan under SAIC-GM-Wuling, its key highlights include an overall length of 4,835 mm, a 2,800 mm wheelbase, an E-type four-link independent rear suspension, a 150 kW (310 Nm) drive motor, and 2C fast-charging capability on the EV variant. The 2025 line-up comprises six variants: three PHEV variants (priced from RM79,800 to RM99,800) and three EV variants (RM109,800 to RM125,800). Exterior dimensions measure 4,835/1,860/1,515 mm with a 2,800 mm wheelbase, alongside a boot capacity of 553 litres for the PHEV and 600 litres for the EV.
Key rivals in the segment include the BYD Qin PLUS, Qin L, XPENG MONA M03, and GAC AION RT.
The 2025 Starlight adopts the "Star Wing Aesthetics" design philosophy. The PHEV variant features a wing-spread front grille with split LED headlamps, while the EV variant gets a sleek, closed-off front bumper design. In profile, the fastback silhouette is paired with 18-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, achieving an impressive drag coefficient of just 0.228 Cd on the EV. At the rear, full-width "Star Ring" LED taillights and an integrated ducktail spoiler deliver a dynamic, sporty stance.
Inside, the 2025 model gains a redesigned flat-bottom three-spoke multifunction steering wheel and adopts a column-mounted gear selector (replacing the previous rotary dial), while the centre console integrates a 50W air-cooled wireless smartphone charger and horizontal dual cup holders. The cockpit is equipped with an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster and a 15.6-inch floating central infotainment touchscreen (12.8-inch on entry-level trims). A "Dark Night Grey" interior theme is available across the range, with higher variants adding a new "Glow Orange" upholstery option.
The 2025 Starlight is offered with two front-wheel-drive (FWD) powertrain options:
| Variant | Engine / Motor | Output & Torque | Battery Capacity | CLTC Range | Fast Charging |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHEV - 70km Variant | 1.5L (106 PS / 130 Nm) + 150 kW motor | Combined output not disclosed | 9.5 kWh | 70 km | Not supported |
| PHEV - 150km Variant | 1.5L (106 PS / 130 Nm) + 150 kW motor | Combined output not disclosed | 20.5 kWh | 150 km | 0.5 hr |
| EV Variant | 150 kW (204 PS) / 310 Nm | Single motor | 54.5 / 69.2 kWh | 510 / 610 km | 2C fast charging 0.33 hr |
The PHEV variant delivers a WLTC battery-depleted fuel consumption of 3.98–4.09 L/100 km, while the EV variant records an energy consumption of 12.5–12.8 kWh per 100 km.
Underneath, the chassis employs a front MacPherson strut setup paired with an E-type four-link independent rear suspension—a generous specification for this price point that enhances rear passenger ride comfort and handling stability. Electric Power Steering (EPS), Electronic Parking Brake (EPB), and regenerative braking come standard across the range. Tyre sizes are 215/55 R17 on the PHEV 70km variant and 215/50 R18 on all other variants.
The infotainment system has been upgraded with the Lingyu AI operating system integrated with the DeepSeek Large Model, supporting 8 major Chinese dialects and 12 heavy accents for noticeably smoother voice interactions. A reverse camera is standard on the base model, while mid-to-high trims step up to a 540° panoramic view monitor with an underbody transparent chassis view.
In terms of comfort amenities, faux leather upholstery and a 6-way power-adjustable driver's seat are standard across the range, with higher trims adding a powered front passenger seat alongside seat heating and ventilation for the front row. The cabin offers 26 storage compartments throughout, along with 60:40 split-folding rear seats.
The 2025 model also adds 50 acoustic insulation packages and front dual-layer acoustic laminated glass, delivering markedly improved NVH levels over the previous model.
Passive safety features include standard ESC, Traction Control (TCS), and 6 airbags (dual front and front side airbags), with high-spec variants adding full-length curtain airbags.
For advanced driver assistance, the range-topping 610km Smart Flagship comes equipped with the Lingmou Intelligent Driving Assistance standard suite (developed with DJI). Using a stereo binocular camera setup, it supports Level 2+ semi-autonomous driving features, including full-speed 0–130 km/h adaptive cruise assist, Highway Navigate on Autopilot (NOA), automated parking assist, and multi-storey memory parking.
Following its initial launch in December 2023, monthly sales of the Starlight briefly topped 18,000 units, making it one of the top two best-selling PHEV sedans priced under RM150,000. However, that momentum was short-lived; after the BYD Qin PLUS received an official price drop to RM79,800 in February 2024, Starlight sales were quickly halved. In April 2025, deliveries dropped to just 2,404 units, followed by 3,575 units in May—trailing significantly behind the Qin PLUS, which continues to clock over 25,000 units monthly.
Factors contributing to the sales slump include aggressive and ongoing price cuts on the Qin PLUS (now starting from RM69,800), two price drops within four months of launch (triggering significant backlash from early buyers over rapid depreciation), weaker brand cachet for Wuling in larger sedan segments, and customer complaints regarding real-world range discrepancies, engine vibrations, and a less refined chassis feel.
Bottom Line: The Wuling Starlight delivers B-segment sizing at an A-segment price tag, underpinned by solid hardware (independent rear suspension), a punchy 150 kW motor, and updated ADAS and range for 2025. However, limited brand premium, weak resale value, and mixed quality feedback have capped monthly sales at around 2,000 to 3,000 units. It remains a practical choice for budget-conscious buyers who prioritise cabin space and performance, do not mind badge prestige, and are prepared for rapid price depreciation. The sweet spots in the range are the PHEV 150km Advanced (RM92,800, well-balanced spec) and the EV 510km Variant (from RM109,800, offering strong value with 2C fast charging).
© 2024 Bitauto.com. All Rights Reserved.
Bitauto (www.yiche.com and www.bitauto.com) is one of the most visited automotive websites in China. We provide detailed info on Chinese car brands available in your area. Please note that the information provided on this website is based on publicly available data and is for reference only. It may not be fully updated or accurate at all times.
Help us improve our website
