The automotive landscape in China keeps evolving at a furious pace, and SAIC-GM-Wuling (SGMW) is right in the thick of it. Their latest offering, the Wuling Starlight 560 SUV, was recently caught on camera, hinting at a formal debut later this year. This isn’t just another SUV, it’s poised to shake things up with gasoline, plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and battery electric vehicle (BEV) options, following in the footsteps of its MPV sibling, the Starlight 730.
Design and Dimensions: A Familiar Face with Versatility
Fans of the Wuling Starlight 730 will immediately recognize the familial resemblance in the Starlight 560’s front fascia. The internal combustion engine (ICE) and PHEV variants sport a bold, rectangular blackened front grille adorned with intricate honeycomb elements, flanked by distinctive dual-banner headlights. It is a look that blends aggression with modern sophistication. Meanwhile, the BEV variant takes a different approach, featuring a sleek, closed front fascia. It maintains those signature dual-banner headlights, seamlessly connected by a black panel, and a neatly integrated rectangular lower grille. This design choice highlights its electric heart. Dimensionally, the Starlight 560 is a substantial presence, measuring 4745 mm long, 1850 mm wide, and 1755 (or 1770) mm high, with a generous 2810 mm wheelbase. This size promises ample interior space, and consumers will appreciate the flexibility of choosing between 5- and 7-seat configurations, making it a strong contender for families or those needing extra cargo room.
Powertrain Punch: Options for Every Driver
Under the hood, the Wuling Starlight 560 truly shines with its diverse powertrain offerings, a smart move by SGMW to cater to differing preferences in the Chinese market. It’s clear they want to capture a wide audience.
- ICE Variant: The gasoline-powered version packs a punch with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, delivering a healthy 130 kW (174 hp). This matches the setup in the Starlight 730, suggesting a consistent and reliable performance. We’re expecting transmission options to include both a 6-speed manual (6MT) for those who enjoy a more engaging drive and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for smooth, effortless cruising.
- PHEV Variant: For those looking to dip their toes into electrification without range anxiety, the PHEV variant offers a compelling package. It combines a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine, putting out 78 kW (105 hp), with a 20.5 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery pack. This setup provides an impressive pure electric range of 100 km, likely under CLTC conditions. This means daily commutes could easily be handled on electric power alone. SGMW has not yet detailed the electric motor specifications, but with curb weights declared at 1,685 kg and 1,750 kg, the PHEV promises a balanced driving experience.
- BEV Variant: The all-electric Starlight 560 pushes the boundaries further. It boasts a 100 kW (134 hp) electric motor, paired with either a 54.5 kWh or 56.7 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery pack. These battery options translate to equally diverse CLTC cruising ranges, from 450 km to an impressive 500 km. That’s serious range for an SUV in this segment, making it a viable option for longer journeys without constant charging worries. The curb weights for the BEV variants span from 1,630 kg to 1,730 kg, depending on the battery size.
While interior details remain under wraps, the flexibility of these powertrains and the choice of 5 or 7 seats tell us the Starlight 560 aims for broad appeal. As the Chinese EV market continues its electrifying sprint, with charging infrastructure growing rapidly and innovative brands like Xpeng leading the charge, vehicles like the Wuling Starlight 560 are crucial in shaping its future. We eagerly await more information on this exciting new SUV.
