The MPV market is actually very large, with MPVs ranging from tens of thousands to millions of dollars easily available. So if you want to recommend a low-priced, low-cost, and spacious MPV model, then a new energy model is definitely the first choice, just like the RuiFeng M3 PLUS HEV model we are test driving today. This car will use a 2.0L engine + P1 generator + P4 drive motor in series for extended hybrid mode, retaining the driving habits of a fuel car while achieving the driving experience of a pure electric car.
Before we officially start, let’s take a look at the exterior and interior design of this car. In terms of appearance, the Rui Feng M3 PLUS HEV maintains the same design as the regular version, including the use of a family-style front face design, which makes it clear at a glance that this is a Rui Feng MPV model.
The new car will offer three configurations, all using halogen headlights instead of the popular LED light source. However, the vehicle is equipped with LED daytime running lights, giving it a modern design element. The front also features fog lights, a feature not found in many MPV models.
The design of the front grille still adopts a horizontal layout, although there are not too many lines, the overall sense of strength and heaviness is still very strong, and the logo on the front of the car is also placed on the front grille, which is quite recognizable. The design of the front bumper still retains the penetrating shape, and the chrome decoration is also just right.
The side of the body does not have any lines, but retains the appearance of an MPV. The dimensions of the new car are 5145x1765x1900mm, with a wheelbase of 3110mm. However, as an MPV model, the car is only equipped with a sliding door on the right side, while the left side is completely sealed, which may be inconvenient for passengers to get in and out.
The new car will use 15-inch wheels with a unique and stylish design. It will be equipped with 205/65 R15 tires, maximizing the vehicle’s performance and comfort for both passengers and cargo.
The rear end has a simple and clear design, with a straight shape and a reasonable height for easy access to the trunk. The taillights are also designed simply, using halogen bulbs as the light source, making future maintenance easier.
The Rui Feng M3 PLUS HEV, a commercial MPV, has a huge trunk space. Even with the third row seats open, it still retains a rare amount of space compared to other vehicles in its class. Folding the third row seats will further expand the trunk space to meet the needs of different users.
In terms of interior design, the Rui Feng M3 PLUS HEV has a more stylish look, resembling an SUV. The center console features different colors and patterns, along with high-gloss black panels, giving the interior a more upscale feel.
The steering wheel feels good and is equipped with multifunction buttons. The left side controls the vehicle’s cruise control and instrument display, while the right side controls entertainment, volume, and voice interaction. It is easy to operate and can be used blindly after a little familiarization.
The dashboard combines traditional mechanical gauges with a central LCD screen. The left side displays the vehicle’s power consumption and regenerative braking intensity, while the right side shows the vehicle’s speed. The central LCD screen shows the gear position, water temperature, fuel level, output current, and vehicle status.
The new car will come with a 10.25-inch floating central control screen, which integrates online navigation, online entertainment, voice interaction, and reverse image, meeting daily needs. The driving mode and kinetic energy recovery intensity of the vehicle cannot be customized, and can only follow the manufacturer’s factory settings.
Below the screen are the traditional air conditioning buttons, which I personally find very practical. Not only is it easier to operate, but it is also easy to use without looking. However, this model does not come with seat heating, so there is still a chill when starting the car in winter.
The gear lever of the car is designed in an interesting way, especially in terms of the layout of the gears. The forward gear is located on the left side, while the reverse gear is pulled down. Therefore, when driving this car for the first time, you need to get familiar with it, otherwise it’s easy to shift gears incorrectly. On the right side of the gear lever are the electronic handbrake and the automatic handbrake switch, which are quite convenient to use.
The new car will have leather-covered seats, which provide overall comfort. However, the seats are manually adjustable, which is disappointing. The armrest on the front seats is thoughtful and can be adjusted at multiple angles.
The new car’s second-row seats feature an independent layout design, two separate seats also enhance the vehicle’s sense of grade. The second-row seats are equipped with armrests on both sides, but the front and back positions and backrest adjustments are manual. However, considering the price and usage scenarios, this configuration is completely adequate.
The third row seats have a 5/5 layout, with good cushion and backrest firmness. The backrest can be adjusted and the legroom and headroom in the third row are excellent, even for adults on long rides.
The Rui Feng M3 PLUS HEV uses an intelligent power generation system, high-power battery, and P4 drive motor for hybrid power. The engine does not directly drive the vehicle, but instead powers the drive motor and battery, providing a driving experience similar to a fuel-powered car while also offering the feel of a pure electric vehicle.
The vehicle has ample power output at the start and uses rear-wheel drive, which is very suitable for the needs of an MPV. The mid-to-late acceleration performance of the vehicle is also commendable. When you want to overtake, just step on the accelerator pedal to get plenty of power without any sense of weakness.
In terms of quietness, the car has done a lot of homework, including the sealing of the glass, the sound insulation of the engine, the noise reduction of the chassis, and the addition of thick-walled tires, making the car drive more quietly and smoothly. However, when the engine is engaged, there is still some noise and vibration entering the car, which we hope can be improved.
In terms of handling, the vehicle’s steering wheel is light and can be operated with one hand. The car also has good visibility, making driving feel more relaxed. A separate small window has been added to the A-pillar for the driver to observe and effectively avoid blind spots.
In terms of performance, the Ruifeng M3 PLUS HEV also performs well in terms of passability. However, considering the actual use of the vehicle, the design of the rear suspension bridge also increases the bounce during the vehicle’s empty running period. But when there are passengers or cargo in the car, the bounce will be significantly reduced.
The kinetic energy recovery of the vehicle is very impressive, not because this function is new, but because the kinetic energy recovery of this car is set very comfortably. When driving at high speed, releasing the accelerator pedal results in a very noticeable deceleration of the vehicle, and the kinetic energy recovery intensity can also reach its maximum; while driving at low speed, its kinetic energy recovery is not abrupt, and the overall performance is very comfortable and intelligent.
In terms of intelligent driving, the car doesn’t have many features. For many long-distance drivers, a cruise control is a very useful configuration. It can ensure the vehicle’s speed and energy output, and also improve driving safety to a certain extent. At the same time, the vehicle is equipped with a reverse image. It would be even more perfect if it could add a 360° panoramic image. The Ruifeng M3 PLUS HEV actually fills the gap in the 100,000-level HEV hybrid MPV market. Although its main use is for commercial transportation, its good comfort and economical fuel consumption performance give it more competitive strength. So as a professional freight driver, would you consider this economical and practical MPV model?