- Wuling has launched a new crossover that offers plug-in hybrid and electric powertrains.
- The PHEV offers up to 81 miles of range in the CLTC cycle, while the EV can go 317 miles on a single charge.
- Pricing starts at ¥99,800 which is the equivalent of $14,014.
Wuling has launched the new Xing Guang S (Starlight S) in China. It features a Buick-esque design as well as plug-in hybrid and electric powertrains.
While the model looks slightly generic, it features flowing bodywork and plastic body cladding. Designers also gave the crossover split lighting units, rain-sensing wipers, and 18-inch alloy wheels.
More: Wuling Starlight Is A Head-Turning Wagon For China
In terms of size, the Starlight S measures 186.8 inches (4,745 mm) long, 74.4 inches (1,890 mm) wide, and 66.1 inches (1,680 mm) tall with a wheelbase that spans 110.2 inches (2,800 mm). This means the model is larger than the Chevrolet Equinox, but smaller than the Buick Electra E5.
The minimalist cabin features a modern design as well as an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster and a 15.6-inch infotainment system. They’re joined by a leather-wrapped steering wheel and leather front seats that can fold flat to transform into “nap beds.” Other highlights include 23 storage compartments and a cargo area that can hold up to 62.4 cubic feet (1,768 liters) of luggage when the rear seats are folded down.
Higher-end variants are more luxurious as they offer heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and a panoramic moonroof. Customers can also get a power liftgate, a Level 2 semi-autonomous driving system, and a power supply that provides up to 3.3 kW of juice for camping.
The plug-in hybrid variant has a 1.5-liter engine, an electronic continuously variable transmission, and an electric motor producing 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS) and 229 lb-ft (310 Nm) of torque. They’re joined by a 9.5 or 20.5 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery. The former provides a CLTC range of 37 miles (60 km), while the latter increases that distance to 81 miles (130 km).
GM went on to say the Starlight S PHEV has a combined range of up to 684 miles (1,100 km) and can accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in as little as 7.9 seconds.
The EV uses the same motor, but it has a larger 60 kWh battery pack. This enables it to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 7.7 seconds and travel up to 317 miles (510 km) on a single charge.
Pricing starts at ¥99,800 ($14,014) for the plug-in hybrid, while the EV will set you back at least ¥119,800 ($16,822). That’s pretty reasonable, so it’s not surprising that Wuling has racked up over 10,000 pre-orders since the beginning of August.
