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. In terms of size, the Starlight S measures 4,745 mm long, 1,890 mm wide, and 1,680 mm tall with a wheelbase that spans 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 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 and 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 60 km, while the latter increases that distance to 130 km.
GM went on to say the Starlight S PHEV has
a combined range of up to 1,100 km and can accelerate from 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 0-100 km/h in 7.7 seconds and travel up to 510 km on a single
charge.
Pricing starts at ¥ 99,800 (US$ 14,014) for
the plug-in hybrid, while the EV will set you back at least ¥ 119,800 (US$ 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.
