The Forthing Taikon 5 is set to make waves in the Australian automotive market, offering an affordable and innovative electric vehicle option. This mid-size SUV, arriving in showrooms later this month, is priced competitively, starting at $36,990 for the Range Extender Hybrid Luxury model, making it one of the cheapest mid-size electric SUVs in the country. The extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) variant further undercuts the recently announced EREV version of the base Leapmotor B10 Style, while the electric (EV) version is more affordable than the BYD Atto 3 Essential, despite the latter's classification as a mid-size SUV. This pricing strategy positions the Taikon 5 as a strong contender in the market.
What makes the Taikon 5 even more intriguing is its range of features and specifications. The EV versions combine a powerful 150kW/340Nm front-mounted electric motor with a 64kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, offering an impressive 427km of WLTP range and the ability to fast-charge at up to 80kW on DC power. The EREV versions, marketed as Range Extender Hybrid vehicles, feature a smaller 31kWh LFP battery and a 120kW/340Nm electric motor, along with a 75kW/130Nm 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine for extended range. The battery can be charged at up to 40kW, and the engine runs on 91-octane regular unleaded fuel.
In terms of dimensions, the Taikon 5 measures 4600mm in length, 1860mm in width, and 1680-1700mm in height, with a 2715mm wheelbase. This size is comparable to the new Toyota RAV4, making it a practical choice for Australian consumers. The vehicle is backed by a seven-year, 200,000km warranty, with servicing intervals of 12 months or 15,000km for EREV models and 12 months or 20,000km for EV models.
Inside, the Taikon 5 offers a premium experience with an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Exclusive trim level adds a leather-wrapped steering wheel, surround-view camera, wireless phone charger, power tailgate, and an opening panoramic sunroof. The top-spec model also upgrades the sound system to six speakers. However, a notable feature is the inclusion of a standard space-saver spare tyre, which is a rare feature for an EV, but only available in the Exclusive variant.
The Taikon 5's safety and driver-assist technology are impressive, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, rear cross-traffic alert, safe exit warning, and traffic sign recognition. The vehicle rides on 19-inch alloy wheels and features automatic bi-LED headlights. The interior is adorned with leatherette upholstery, and the Exclusive trim offers premium materials and features.
Forthing, the Chinese automaker behind the Taikon 5, is a subsidiary of Dongfeng Liuzhou Motor, which has joint ventures with Honda and Nissan. The company offers a range of vehicles in the Chinese market, including sedans, SUVs, and people movers, under its namesake brand and premium EV brand Voyah. The brand also sells off-roader brands M-Hero and Mengshi. With a growing presence in New Zealand and the recent testing of the Vigo small electric SUV in Australia, Forthing is expanding its global footprint.
In conclusion, the Forthing Taikon 5 is an exciting prospect for the Australian market, offering an affordable and feature-rich electric SUV. Its competitive pricing, impressive range, and innovative features make it a strong contender in the mid-size electric SUV segment. As the brand continues to expand its global presence, it will be interesting to see how the Taikon 5 performs in the Australian market and whether it can challenge established competitors.
