FAW has unveiled the X40 SUV at the ongoing Guangzhou Auto Show which is supposed to be their latest addition in the compact crossover segment. The X40 is reportedly based on the same platform on which the FAW Senya R7 is built. The R7 was officially launched in China earlier this year.
Related: FAW Senya R7 SUV launched in China
The X40 has a very stylish design with a front fascia that seems well connected with the Besturn family of cars produced by FAW. The car on display features hexagonal chrome grille, dual-tone exterior color, skid pads under the bumpers, roof rails, alloy wheels, while key features include tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), auto-dimming rear view mirror, 8-inch LCD screen and vehicle stability assist.
The X40 will initially be available with a 1.6 liter naturally aspirated engine with a maximum output of 116 hp and peak torque of 155 Nm, mated to either a 5-speed manual or a six-speed automatic gearbox. However according to FAW, an all-electric & a plug-in hybrid version will also be made available.
Related: Video: All New 2016 FAW B50
The compact crossover segment is booming in Chinese market at an astonishing pace. Currently there are nearly 292 models of SUVs available for sale in China offered by different manufacturers including international as well as Chinese domestic brands, while there are approximately 80 or more SUVs that will be launched during 2017, FAW X40 being one of them.
The presence of Honda HR-V, Honda Vezel, BMW X1 and the rumors of possible launch of Audi Q2 in Pakistan does indicate that crossovers have a bright future in our country as well, but with most of these vehicles occupying the 3.0 million+ price bracket, FAW does have a chance to capture the compact crossover market with a wide variety of budget-friendly options in their arsenal such as the D60, R7, X80 and X40..
Related: FAW X80- Star of the Pak-China Friendship Car Rally
FAW is currently selling the V2 hatchback in Pakistan which is steadily making its ground in the resale-oriented market. But with an impressive range of vehicles out there, perhaps it’s only a matter of time to see these impressive FAW vehicles running on our roads. FAW’s X80 SUV has recently proved the reliability & potential of Chinese SUVs during the Pak-China rally; one may expect the X40 SUV to be equally good.
Stay tuned to CarSpiritPK for more news from the 2016 Guangzhou Auto Show.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
