Chinese automaker Haval has just unveiled its flagship SUV in the form of the Shenshou, a name that means ‘Mythical Beast.’ The striking SUV is the production version of the Haval XY concept unveiled just a few months ago and is underpinned by the same Great Wall platform as various other Haval and WEY models. It has a wheelbase of 2,800 mm and is 4,780 mm long, 1,890 mm wide, and 1,675 mm tall.
The exterior design of the Shenshou immediately catches the eye, particularly the front end where there is a gargantuan grille that makes some of those from western brands appear relatively reasonable. In addition, the sleek SUV has thin LED headlights and a prominent light bar. These intriguing design details continue along the sides where there are silver and black wheels, flush door handles, and sharp creases and body lines. The steeply raked D-pillar also helps to make the Shenshou stand out.
Found at the rear of Haval’s new SUV is a roof-mounted spoiler, large LED taillights, a diffuser, and quad tailpipes. The Shenshou also has black body cladding to add to its rugged appeal. The bold styling continues into the cabin where the Shenshou has a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a large 14.6-inch infotainment screen. There is also a Qi wireless phone charger, a spit center console, a three-spoke steering wheel, and an almost complete lack of buttons, other than on the wheel and door panels.
Cars News China reports that the SUV is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine producing 185 hp and 220 Nm of torque that’s coupled to a nine-speed dual-clutch transmission. It is reported that both a 2.0-liter variant and a plug-in hybrid model are also on the cards.
