China’s Great Wall Motor Challenges Japanese Dominance in Luxury Minivan Market

Unveiled in Manila
China’s Great Wall Motor Minivan
WEY Gaoshan

A new luxury minivan model was unveiled at the 2024 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) and is attracting attention. Luxury minivans are usually a field dominated by Japanese automakers, and they have prestigious vehicles such as Toyota’s Alphard and Lexus LM. Still, the vehicle captured this time is a Chinese minivan.

China’s Great Wall Motor entered the competition in the minivan market in earnest by introducing a new luxury minivan, WEY Gaoshan, at the 2024 Manila Auto Show. Not much information has been released as the launch has not yet been officially announced. Still, since the demand for minivans is more significant than expected, it may achieve good results if launched in South Korea. What does China Great Wall Motor’s WEY Gaoshan look like, and how does it perform?

Vertical Large Grill
Similar to Other Models

First, looking at the front, we will notice a huge grille similar to that of other companies’ minivans. The vertically descending grille makes the vehicle more majestic. As a luxury minivan, the chrome material used here and there was used to create highlights, and a straight light was adopted at the rear.

At first glance, it looks similar to the design of the representative minivan, Toyota Alphard. In addition, Chinese vehicle design is always familiar. It does not cause much resistance, but it is always disappointing that it does not show a unique design, so we can’t help but feel the limitations of Chinese vehicles.

Luxurious Interior
Plug-in-Hybrid Equipped

However, the interior has been developed significantly, and the vehicle’s interior on display is decorated with white leather, making it a luxurious feel. The instrument panel and infotainment system can be checked through an integrated display, and the second row is also equipped with independent seats, power seats, and heating and ventilation massage functions, providing convenient features.

In the powertrain case, a plug-in hybrid system has been adopted, combining a 39.48 kWh battery with a 1.5-liter power charger engine. It has an output of 480 horsepower and can drive about 140 km (87 miles) in electric mode.

Expansion of Luxury Van Market

Recently, as the demand for luxury vans has increased, the number of vehicles incorporating elements such as hybrids or more luxurious interiors has increased. In South Korea, the Carnival and Staria are equipped with hybrid powertrains, and the Carnival High Limousine, in particular, is a model that has always been popular due to its luxurious interior and excellent performance.

Likewise, Japan’s luxury minivan, Lexus LM, also confirmed its launch in the South Korean market, predicting a sensation in the South Korean minivan market. Although it is unlikely that Great Wall Motor’s WEY Gaoshan will be launched in South Korea, South Korean automakers appear nervous as Chinese automakers quickly read and respond to market changes.