Forthing SUV Launches in Australia with Mixed Reviews

Forthing, a new Australian market entrant from Chinese-state owned manufacturer Dongfeng, has made headlines with its mid-sized SUV model, the Forthing Electric and Range Extender Hybrid. The vehicle was originally marketed as the Taikon 5, but the name was dropped due to trademark challenges from Porsche AG and Volkswagen in Australia and New Zealand.

Powertrain Options and Pricing

The Forthing Electric and Range Extender Hybrid offers two powertrain options: a fully electric front-wheel-drive system and a range extender plug-in hybrid (REEV) rear-wheel-drive system. The electric model features a 150kW and 340Nm electric motor with a 64.4kWh battery, providing a WLTP driving range of 427km. The REEV combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine with a 31.94kWh battery and a 120kW and 240Nm electric motor, offering a 170km electric range and a 937km total range with the petrol engine.

Prices start at $36,990 for the REEV Luxury model, while the Exclusive BEV tops the range at $42,490. In the mid-size SUV segment, it competes with other Chinese models like the BYD Sealion 5, Atto 3 Evo, Chery Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid, Geely EX5, Starray EM-i, and Leapmotor C10.

Features and Warranty

Standard equipment on the Luxury model includes 19-inch alloy wheels, a 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen, synthetic leather seats, and a massaging, ventilated driver’s seat. The Exclusive adds front parking sensors, a 360-degree camera, and a panoramic sunroof. Both models come with a seven-year/200,000km warranty, an eight-year/200,000km battery warranty, and five years of roadside assist.

At a Sydney media launch, the SUV was tested across various road types, from highways to winding backroads. While its electric torque delivered brisk acceleration, the experience was marred by tyre noise, a whine from the electric motors, and an unnatural brake pedal feel. The steering was criticized as vague and inconsistent, and the body control over bumps was found lacking.

For example, the “Car Body and Chassis” menu included unrelated items like door and window controls. Screen response times were also inconsistent, detracting from the overall user experience.

Despite these issues, the SUV offers aggressive pricing, an impressive claimed range, and a generous warranty package. However, its shortcomings in driving feel and interior quality may limit its appeal in Australia’s competitive market.

Interior and Technology

The interior design resembles a decade-old Mercedes GLC, with a similar dashboard layout, trim, and circular air vents. Modern touches include a crystal gear selector featuring a light-up Forthing logo and carbon-look accents.

Related Post: BYD cuts Australia’s cheapest new car price to $19,990

However, the premium impression is undermined by scratchy door plastics, a flexible center console, and flimsy air vent bezels. The inclusion of physical buttons for key functions like air conditioning and hazard lights is a welcome feature, setting it apart from many Chinese competitors.

Market Position and Practicality

Forthing aims to compete in Australia by leveraging Dongfeng’s manufacturing expertise, Ateco’s market presence, and its affordable new energy vehicles with luxury features. The Forthing Electric and Range Extender Hybrid targets the mid-size SUV segment, competing with models like the BYD Sealion 5, Atto 3 Evo, and Chery Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid. Both powertrains support 3.5kW vehicle-to-load functionality, enhancing practicality for users.

Standard safety features include rear parking sensors, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring. Storage capacity is 480 litres with the rear seats up and 1480 litres when folded. The Exclusive Electric model includes a space-saver spare wheel, while other variants come with a tyre repair kit. Service intervals are set at 12 months or 15,000km for the Range Extender Hybrid and 12 months or 20,000km for the Electric variant.

The vehicle’s design includes sleek front lighting, a hexagonal grille, and a clean rear-end. Interior highlights are a 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen, synthetic leather seats, and a massaging driver’s seat. Visibility is adequate forward but limited rearward due to a slim back window. Rear passengers have decent headroom and knee room, with amenities like USB-A ports and large door bins. Forthing has partnered with Revcharge to offer home charging solutions, adding convenience for customers.

Driving Experience and Efficiency

During the Sydney launch, testing revealed several driving issues: pronounced tyre noise, a whine from the electric motors, and an unnatural brake pedal feel. The steering was described as inconsistent, and the ride quality over bumps was criticized. The Atlas tyres on the Electric model struggled with grip, leading to traction issues. While Sport mode offered minor improvements, it did not fully address these concerns.

Efficiency testing showed promising results. The Range Extender Hybrid achieved 0.4L/100km and 15.6kWh/100km in hybrid mode during heavy traffic. On a mixed highway and backroad route, the REEV posted 0.5L/100km and 14.7kWh/100km, while the Electric model returned 12.6kWh/100km on the same course.

Forthing faces stiff competition from established Chinese brands like BYD, Chery, and Geely, which offer similar features at comparable prices.