Maxus, a SAIC-owned brand, revealed a new minivan called V70 that will go on sale in China in early 2023. The diesel-powered model is based on a new platform and is similar in size to the likes of the Ford Transit Custom, VW Transporter, and Citroen Spacetourer.
The V70 looks a lot more modern than Maxus’ other offerings. Still, it is not as futuristic as the Hyundai Staria, or as modern as its Maxus Mifa electric minivan stablemate. The signature styling cue is the intake grid on the front bumper that takes the role of a grille. In terms of lighting, the minivan has matrix LED headlights, extra units on the lower bumper intake, and vertically-mounted taillights that connect through an LED strip above the rear windshield.
Read: 2024 Ford Transit Custom Revealed With Diesel, PHEV, And EV Powertrain Options
The model measures 4,998 mm (196.8 inches) long, 2,030 mm (79.9 inches) wide, and 2,035 mm (80.1 inches) long, with a 3-meter (118.1 inches) wheelbase. This makes it slightly longer than the previous-gen Ford Transit Custom, but shorter than the Hyundai Staria. Chinese media report that the Maxus V70 will be available in different roof heights and wheelbase lengths. Personalization options include the pictured bi-tone treatment with a white shade for the upper part of the bodywork and large Maxus V70 lettering on the profile.
In line with rival models, the Maxus V70 has a sliding door for the rear passengers and a two-piece tailgate. Despite the small-diameter wheels the ground clearance appears to be generous, so Maxus equipped the V70 with side steps. Inside, there is room for five, six, or nine passengers depending on the configuration. Maxus didn’t show photos of the dashboard but the minivan can be equipped with a tablet-like infotainment touchscreen, a Bluetooth key, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel.
The Maxus V70 is based on SAIC’s new platform that is expected to underpin several LCVs in the near future. It comes fitted with a turbocharged 2.0-liter diesel engine producing 125 hp (93 kW / 126 PS), exclusively mated to a nine-speed automatic, allowing a top speed of 156 km/h (97 mph).
As reported by Car News China, Maxus is selling vehicles in over 70 countries. This means that the Maxus V70 could be exported to other markets outside China, where it will be introduced in 2023.
