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Wuling Asta
Wuling Asta
from Wikipedia

Wuling Asta
Overview
ManufacturerSAIC-GM-Wuling
Model code730S
Also calledWuling Xingchen
Production2021–present
AssemblyChina: Liuzhou, Guangxi
Body and chassis
ClassCompact crossover SUV
Body style5-door SUV
LayoutFront-engine, front-wheel-drive
Related
Powertrain
Engine
Power output
  • 108 kW (145 hp; 147 PS)
  • 130 kW (174 hp; 177 PS) (system output, HEV)
Transmission
  • 6-speed manual
  • CVT
  • Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (HEV)
Hybrid drivetrainPower-split hybrid
Battery1.8 kWh lithium-ion (HEV)
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,750 mm (108.3 in)
Length4,594 mm (180.9 in)
Width1,820 mm (71.7 in)
Height1,740 mm (68.5 in)
Kerb weight1,550–1,615 mm (61.0–63.6 in) (HEV)

The Wuling Asta[1] (Chinese: 五菱星辰; pinyin: Wǔlíng Xīngchén) is a compact crossover SUV produced by SAIC-GM-Wuling through the Wuling brand since 2021.

Overview

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Rear view

The Asta was released on the April 2021 Auto Shanghai as part of Wuling's model offensive among regular passenger cars.[2] It is built on the same platform as the Baojun 530.[3]

The design of Asta follows the style of the Victory minivan, with a trapezoidal grille with a wing motif,[4] and boomerang-shaped LED lighting. In addition, like the Victory, the Asta is equipped with a silver corporate logo for the global model range.[5]

The Asta is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre LJO four-cylinder engine producing 108 kW (145 hp; 147 PS). The engine is mated to either a six-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission with eight pre-programmed gear ratios.[6]

The Asta is the second model designed for global markets, after the Victory. Firstly, its sale began on the domestic Chinese market, with plans to start sales in export countries in 2022.[7][needs update]

Hybrid

[edit]

The Asta HEV was released in August 2022. It uses a hybrid system adopting the "P1+P3 dual motor series parallel architecture" consisting of a 2.0-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine rated at 100 kW (136 PS; 134 hp) paired with a Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT), producing a total output of 130 kW (177 PS; 174 hp) and 320 N⋅m (32.6 kg⋅m; 236 lb⋅ft) of torque.[8] It has a claimed 0–60 km/h (37 mph) figure of 3.2 seconds, 0–100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.8 seconds, a driving range of 1,100 kilometres (680 mi), and a fuel consumption of 4.6 L/100 km (21.7 km/L; 61.4 mpg‑imp; 51.1 mpg‑US) in city driving.[9]

Sales

[edit]
Year China
2024 20,192[10]

References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
The Wuling Asta is a manufactured by under the Wuling brand, introduced in September 2021 as the company's first global model aimed at international markets. Known domestically in as the Xing Chen, it features a emphasizing dynamic with a grille, split LED headlights, and a of 2,750 mm, providing spacious interior room for five passengers and an expandable trunk capacity of up to 1,632 liters. Priced affordably starting from around 69,800 CNY (approximately $10,800 USD as of 2021) for entry-level trims, the Asta targets budget-conscious consumers seeking practical urban mobility. The initial powertrain consists of a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine producing 145 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a six-speed manual transmission in base models or a continuously variable transmission (CVT) in higher trims, achieving 0-100 km/h acceleration in 10.6 seconds and fuel efficiency of about 7 L/100 km. In August 2022, SAIC-GM-Wuling expanded the lineup with a hybrid variant featuring a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle engine combined with an electric motor (delivering 320 Nm torque), a dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT), and a high-performance battery enabling 0-60 km/h in 3.2 seconds, a combined range exceeding 1,100 km, and urban fuel consumption of 4.6 L/100 km. This hybrid edition, priced from 99,800 CNY, incorporates advanced features like the Ling OS infotainment system on a 10.25-inch touchscreen, 360-degree cameras, and a body structure using two-thirds high-strength steel for enhanced safety. The Asta's launch marked a milestone in Wuling's expansion beyond mini vehicles and electric models like the Hongguang Mini EV, contributing to SAIC-GM-Wuling's achievement of 1 million new energy vehicle sales since 2017. Available primarily in the Chinese market (as the Wuling Xingchen), with the Asta name intended for international exports, it comes in multiple trims such as Star Dynamic, , and Star Edition, with options for trendy exterior colors and premium amenities like panoramic sunroofs. By 2023, hybrid models became prominent, underscoring Wuling's focus on efficient, technology-driven SUVs for emerging global demand; the model was updated and succeeded by the Wuling S in 2024, which includes variants.

Overview

Introduction

The Wuling Asta is a manufactured by under the Wuling brand since its launch in 2021. Designed primarily as an affordable family vehicle, it targets budget-conscious consumers seeking a practical and spacious option in the competitive compact SUV segment. The model serves as the international export name for the domestically marketed Wuling Xingchen in . Measuring 4,594 mm in length, 1,820 mm in width, 1,740 mm in height, and with a of 2,750 mm, the Asta offers a roomy interior suitable for urban and suburban driving. At launch in , pricing started at approximately 69,800 yuan, equivalent to around $10,800 USD, making it one of the more accessible crossovers in its class. The is available in both and hybrid variants, providing flexibility for different buyer preferences.

Market positioning

The Wuling Asta is positioned as an entry-level urban crossover , targeting young families and first-time buyers in emerging markets who prioritize affordability, practicality, and spaciousness over premium luxury features. Priced starting at approximately $10,800, it appeals to budget-conscious consumers seeking a versatile vehicle for daily commuting and family outings, with a focus on value-driven attributes like a long of 2,750 mm that enables generous interior room without exceeding compact dimensions. This positioning aligns with Wuling's emphasis on democratizing ownership in price-sensitive segments, where the Asta serves as a bridge between the brand's ultra-affordable mini-EVs, such as the Hongguang Mini EV, and more upscale offerings. In the competitive landscape of the sub-$15,000 SUV market, the Asta directly rivals models like the and Coolray, which also target similar demographics with comparable sizing and pricing but often at the expense of Wuling's superior space efficiency. Wuling differentiates the Asta through its strategic integration of hybrid powertrains, offering as low as 4.6 L/100 km in select variants, which caters to eco-conscious urban dwellers in markets like and amid rising demand for sustainable yet economical transport. This hybrid emphasis underscores Wuling's broader strategy to evolve its lineup toward electrified options, expanding appeal beyond entry-level electric minis to hybrid crossovers that balance cost, versatility, and environmental considerations. The Asta's role in Wuling's portfolio is pivotal as the brand's inaugural "strategic SUV" with a global silver badge, signaling an intent to penetrate international markets with a model that combines family-oriented utility—such as ample rear seating and cargo space—with modern tech features at an accessible price point. By focusing on these elements, Wuling positions the Asta not just as a budget vehicle but as a practical choice for growing households in developing economies, where it outshines competitors in interior volume per dollar spent.

Development

Background and conception

The Wuling Asta was conceived amid China's accelerating shift toward in the early , driven by government subsidies for electric and hybrid technologies as well as increasing that heightened demand for efficient, affordable . In 2020, recorded 1.37 million NEV sales, a 10.9% year-over-year increase despite the , underscoring the market's appetite for cost-effective electrified options under RMB 100,000 to serve urban commuters and families. , recognizing this trend following the success of its , initiated planning for a hybrid SUV to bridge its micro-vehicle lineup with more versatile models, leveraging national policies providing subsidies for new energy vehicles, including hybrids. The project emerged from close collaboration within the , established in 2002 with SAIC holding 50.1%, 44%, and Wuling Group 5.9% (since 2011), to harness GM's global engineering expertise for cost-effective production. Development focused on creating a compact priced below RMB 100,000 by utilizing shared platforms from existing models like the , enabling while integrating hybrid technology for enhanced efficiency. This partnership allowed to target entry-level consumers seeking reliable performance without premium pricing, aligning with the venture's broader expansion from commercial micro-vans to passenger SUVs. Initial goals emphasized achieving a combined range exceeding 1,100 km through an integrated , while maintaining low ownership costs to compete in the RMB 90,000–110,000 segment. Development of the began in late 2020, leveraging SAIC-GM-Wuling's experience with electric vehicles. The project was publicly announced in early 2021 at the Auto Show, where the Wuling Xingchen (Asta's ) was unveiled as the brand's first global crossover, signaling SAIC-GM-Wuling's intent to move beyond micro-vehicles into international markets with NEV-capable platforms. This conception phase laid the foundation for the model's hybrid variant, launched in 2022 as the venture's inaugural HEV offering.

Launch and production start

The Wuling Asta, known domestically in as the Xingchen, made its world premiere at the 2021 Shanghai Auto Show in April, where unveiled it as the brand's first global crossover designed for international markets. This debut highlighted the vehicle's compact crossover design aimed at young urban buyers, with early announcements emphasizing its export potential under the Asta name to distinguish it from the Chinese-market Xingchen branding. Production of the Asta commenced on September 8, 2021, at SAIC-GM-Wuling's primary facility in , , marking the start of volume manufacturing for both domestic and planned export units. Sales officially began in shortly thereafter in mid-September 2021, with initial pricing positioned affordably to capture entry-level demand. In August 2022, expanded the lineup with the introduction of hybrid variants, launching the Asta HEV on August 25 as the company's first hybrid model for the Chinese market. These included two trims—the "" and "Electric Speed" versions—featuring a 2.0-liter paired with a dedicated hybrid transmission for improved efficiency. plans, first outlined during the 2021 debut, targeted international rollout starting in 2022 to leverage the Asta's global positioning.

Design

Exterior styling

The Wuling Asta adopts a modern crossover styling with a bold, trapezoidal front grille integrated into its "dynamic wing" design, which emphasizes a youthful and aggressive aesthetic. This is complemented by boomerang-shaped split LED headlights that provide sharp illumination and enhance the vehicle's forward-facing presence. The side profile features smooth, dynamic lines with slightly flared fenders and a concave under-door design that creates a sense of motion, while higher trims include 18-inch wheels fitted with 215/55 R18 tires for improved stance and handling. Premium variants distinguish themselves with chrome accents along the grille, surrounds, and door handles, adding a layer of sophistication to the otherwise sporty exterior. A sloped roofline contributes to the vehicle's aerodynamic profile, aiding highway efficiency through reduced wind resistance. Color options for the Asta include Pristine White, Pearl White, Purple, Green, Blue, and Dark Brown, allowing buyers to personalize the vehicle's visual appeal. At the rear, three-dimensional taillights and a floating roof design maintain the cohesive, technological look, with the overall dimensions of 4,594 mm in length, 1,820 mm in width, and 1,740 mm in height supporting its compact yet spacious crossover form. The luggage compartment offers practical versatility, with a capacity expandable to 1,632 liters when the rear seats are folded flat.

Interior and chassis

The Wuling Asta employs a standard five-seat configuration in its cabin, featuring cloth or imitation upholstery across the trims for a balance of affordability and comfort, with adjustable front seats that include height and lumbar support options for the driver. The rear seats adopt a 60/40 split-folding design, allowing flexible cargo expansion while maintaining seating for three passengers when upright, and include a central for added convenience. The underlying chassis utilizes a front-wheel-drive shared with other models, such as the , providing a reliable foundation for urban and light off-road use. Suspension consists of MacPherson at the front for precise steering response and a torsion beam setup at the rear, which contributes to composed handling and adequate ride comfort over varied surfaces without excessive complexity. This setup, combined with the vehicle's 2,750 mm , ensures a spacious interior with ample legroom for rear occupants, supporting family-oriented practicality. Build quality emphasizes structural integrity through the use of high-strength steel comprising more than 64.7% of the body, including ultra-high-strength and hot-formed materials in critical areas for enhanced rigidity. This construction helps achieve a curb weight of 1,415 to 1,615 kg across variants, aiding fuel efficiency while maintaining a stable center of gravity for confident driving dynamics.

Powertrain

Gasoline variants

The gasoline variants of the Wuling Asta are equipped with a 1.5-liter LJO turbocharged inline-4 engine that produces 108 kW (145 hp) of power and 250 Nm of . This engine design emphasizes balanced performance for urban and highway driving, providing responsive acceleration suitable for a . The powertrain is mated to either a 6-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT), with all configurations utilizing front-wheel drive only. This setup ensures smooth power delivery and efficient operation across various driving conditions. Performance metrics for the gasoline models include a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 10.6 seconds, a top speed of 170 km/h, and a combined fuel consumption of 7.0 L/100 km based on WLTC testing. These figures highlight the variant's capability for everyday usability while maintaining reasonable efficiency. Base trims were launched in 2021 as part of the model's initial lineup.

Hybrid variants

The Wuling Asta's hybrid variants feature a non-plug-in HEV configuration utilizing a dedicated 2.0-liter LJM20A Atkinson-cycle inline-four engine paired with a permanent magnet synchronous and a dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT). The engine produces 100 kW (136 hp) and 175 Nm of , while the electric motor delivers 100 kW (136 hp) and 320 Nm of , resulting in a combined output of 130 kW (177 PS) and 320 Nm. This setup employs a small 1.8 kWh pack, which supports short bursts of electric-only driving and to enhance overall efficiency without external charging capability. Available in two trims introduced in August 2022—the balanced "" version and the performance-oriented "Electric Speed" version—the prioritizes seamless transitions between electric and operation via the electromagnetic DHT for optimized power delivery. The Electric Speed trim achieves 0-60 km/h acceleration in 3.2 seconds, leveraging the electric motor's instant for responsive low-speed performance, while both variants maintain a top speed of around 170 km/h. Efficiency is a key advantage, with the hybrid enabling combined WLTC fuel consumption of 5.7 L/100 km, significantly lower than comparable models due to the electric motor's assistance in city driving and highway cruising. This translates to a total range exceeding 1,100 km on a full 55-liter , supported by the system's ability to operate in series-parallel hybrid modes for versatile energy management.

Plug-in hybrid variants

In April 2024, introduced the Wuling Xingchen Plus, a electric vehicle (PHEV) variant of the Asta. It features a 1.5-liter LBG range-extender rated at 78 kW (106 hp) paired with a 150 kW (201 hp) , delivering a combined output of 165 kW (221 hp). The system includes an 18.3 kWh ternary pack, providing a pure electric range of 115 km under the CLTC standard and a total range exceeding 1,000 km. This variant supports external charging and offers improved efficiency for urban and long-distance driving.

Features and safety

Technology and infotainment

The Wuling Asta features a 10.25-inch floating system as its primary interface for digital controls and entertainment. This display is powered by the vehicle's proprietary Ling OS operating system, which emphasizes user-friendly navigation and real-time connectivity through integrated network support and mapping services. Ling OS enables over-the-air (OTA) updates to enhance system performance and add new functionalities without requiring a dealership visit. In export markets such as , the system includes native support for Apple CarPlay and , facilitating wireless mirroring of smartphone apps for navigation, music, and calls, alongside standard pairing and multiple USB ports for device connectivity and charging. The smart assistant within Ling OS provides voice recognition for hands-free operation, supporting commands in Chinese to manage multimedia playback, online navigation, climate control, and telephone functions. For enhanced visibility and convenience, higher trims incorporate a 360-degree panoramic camera system that displays real-time views around the vehicle on the central screen, aiding in maneuvering and parking. The audio setup consists of a standard 6-speaker system, delivering balanced sound for music and media, with the interface allowing easy adjustments via touch or voice. Integrated into the minimalist layout, the promotes intuitive access to these features while minimizing driver distraction.

Safety systems and ratings

The Wuling Asta comes standard with six airbags across all variants, providing comprehensive occupant protection in the event of a collision. It also includes an (ABS) with (EBD) to optimize braking performance and prevent wheel lockup, (ESC) to maintain vehicle traction during cornering or slippery conditions, hill-start assist to prevent rollback on inclines, and a (TPMS) to alert drivers of low tire pressure for improved handling and . Hybrid variants of the Wuling Asta incorporate advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) features, including for maintaining safe following distances, -keeping assist to help prevent unintentional departures, automatic braking to detect and mitigate potential frontal collisions, and blind-spot monitoring to warn of vehicles in adjacent lanes. These systems enhance driver awareness and reduce the risk of accidents, particularly in or urban scenarios. Additionally, the in hybrids improves stability by enabling controlled deceleration that recaptures energy while blending seamlessly with friction brakes, contributing to shorter stopping distances. A 360-degree camera further aids in and low-speed maneuvers by providing a full view around the vehicle. It also demonstrated excellent overall results in the China Insurance Automotive Safety Index (C-IASI) tests, attributed to its high-strength steel cage-type body structure and advanced techniques that effectively distribute impact forces.

Markets and sales

Domestic market in

The Wuling Asta is known domestically in as the Wuling Xingchen, a manufactured by the . Primary production takes place at the company's facility in , —where assembly began in September 2021—enabling efficient supply to the local market. The Xingchen is offered in China-specific trims under the Wuling branding, emphasizing affordability and practicality for urban consumers. Gasoline-powered variants feature a 1.5-liter turbocharged paired with a CVT transmission, with prices ranging from 69,800 yuan for the entry-level model to 99,800 yuan for top configurations equipped with advanced features like LED lighting and larger screens. Hybrid models, launched in 2022, start at 99,800 yuan and benefit from incentives, including NEV purchase exemptions and trade-in subsidies of up to 20,000 yuan, which can reduce the effective price to approximately 80,000 yuan for qualifying buyers. These policies align with China's push for greener mobility, making the hybrid Xingchen particularly appealing in the domestic segment. Sales of the Xingchen occur primarily through Wuling's extensive dealership network across , focusing on high-volume urban markets where the vehicle's compact dimensions and low running costs resonate with city drivers. The model adheres to China's GB emission standards (GB 18352.6-2016 for light-duty vehicles) to ensure environmental compliance, while its and navigation systems are optimized with language support and integration with local apps like .

Export and international markets

The Wuling Asta, known internationally under its export name, began targeted exports in 2022 as part of SAIC-GM-Wuling's broader strategy to expand beyond China. Initial shipments focused on emerging economies, with key destinations including Southeast Asia—particularly Indonesia and Thailand—where the vehicle supports local manufacturing and right-hand-drive configurations for ASEAN markets. In Latin America, exports reached countries such as Chile and Peru, leveraging the model's affordability and hybrid options to compete in price-sensitive segments. The Middle East, including the United Arab Emirates (UAE), also emerged as a priority region, with units adapted for regional fuel standards and climate conditions. No under other like Chevrolet has been reported for the Asta specifically, maintaining its Wuling identity abroad to build global brand recognition. Right-hand-drive versions were developed for markets like , though launches there have been delayed due to regulatory approvals and adjustments. Adaptations for international compliance include Euro 6 emissions standards for select regions, multi-language systems supporting local dialects, and pricing positioned between $12,000 and $18,000 USD to align with entry-level segments in developing markets. These modifications draw from the model's domestic production base in while incorporating hybrid variants to appeal to eco-conscious consumers in green-leaning economies. Export growth has faced hurdles, notably tariff barriers in the and , which have steered efforts toward tariff-friendly emerging economies in , , and the . Despite these challenges, cumulative exports of vehicles, including the Asta lineup, reached over 1.1 million units by early 2025 across more than 100 countries.

Reception

Critical reviews

Automotive reviewers have commended the Wuling Asta for its outstanding in the compact segment. A 2021 test by Wheelsboy highlighted it as "the cheapest we've ever tested" at approximately $11,000, praising its surprising level of refinement, including a comfortable interior and smooth ride quality that belies its low price point. Reviews of the hybrid variant have similarly emphasized its peppy acceleration and efficiency. The model achieves a combined fuel economy of 5.7 L/100 km, with city figures as low as 4.6 L/100 km, positioning it as a strong contender for budget-conscious buyers seeking low running costs. However, critics have noted drawbacks such as the use of hard interior plastics that feel less premium than expected, potentially detracting from long-term perceived quality. In terms of handling, the Asta's soft suspension tuning provides adequate stability for urban driving and family use but lacks the sharpness required for spirited performance on twisty roads. Noise insulation has been a highlight, with the 2023 update incorporating 42 acoustic packages across the vehicle to reduce wind and road noise effectively, creating a quieter cabin environment.

Sales performance and awards

The Wuling Asta achieved sales of 78,114 units in China in 2022. Monthly sales data for 2024 indicate continued modest performance, with figures around 1,700-2,000 units per month as of November 2024. In 2023, Wuling as a brand received a customer satisfaction score of 774 out of 1,000 in the NEV Customer Experience Value Index study.

References

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