Mercedes-Benz launched the new CLE model on March 26, filling the gap between the C Coupe and E Coupe models. The price range is from 45.76 to 55.23 million yuan, with three models to choose from. The CLE continues the design language of the Mercedes-Benz family, with a highly recognizable grille and digital headlights. The body lines are smooth, emphasizing a comfortable rather than aggressive exterior design. In terms of body size, the convertible is slightly higher than the hardtop model, with the same wheelbase, and offers 18 to 20-inch wheels to choose from.
In terms of interior, equipped with a 12.3-inch full LCD digital instrument panel and an 11.9-inch central control screen, built-in third-generation MBUX interactive system, other luxury configurations include Nappa leather, 64-color ambient lighting, and Burmester sound system. In terms of power system, the domestic model is equipped with a 2.0T engine, with a maximum output of 258 horsepower, peak torque of 400 Nm, combined with a 9-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive system.
Due to replacing both the C Coupe and E Coupe, the CLE does not directly compete with the Audi A5 and BMW 4 Series, but is also positioned slightly above them in terms of pricing. The focus is not on high sales volume, but rather on meeting the needs of niche markets.
Beijing Hyundai officially launches the 11th generation Sonata. Keywords: mid-size car/13.98 to 18.68 million yuan/mainly sports. On March 26, Beijing Hyundai’s mid-size car Sonata 11th generation model was launched, with 6 configurations priced from 13.98 to 18.68 million yuan. The Sonata’s exterior emphasizes a sporty and futuristic design language, with the N Line version adding special elements such as badges, five-spoke 19-inch wheels, and red brake calipers to further enhance its sportiness.
In terms of interior, the Sonata leans towards the driver, with a 12.3-inch curved display integrating the center console and instrument panel. The N Line model differentiates from the regular version with red decorative elements in the interior. In terms of intelligent configuration, the Sonata is equipped with Hyundai’s own intelligent network architecture, supporting various connectivity functions such as CarPlay. The large sunroof and BOSE’s 12-speaker audio system enhance functionality and convenience. In terms of power system, the Sonata offers 1.5T and 2.0T turbocharged engine options, with outputs of 170 horsepower and 250 horsepower respectively, all equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
The price of Sonata is competitive in the fuel vehicle market, but its power and handling advantages may not be enough to attract consumers in the growing new energy vehicle market in China. Sonata may lag behind some new energy vehicle models in terms of intelligent driving and vehicle connectivity. Hyundai, like Toyota, attracts consumers by offering mature and reliable configurations. However, considering the current external environment, old rivals such as Camry, Accord, and Passat may also adopt price reduction strategies to further squeeze Sonata’s market space.
Chery Arrizo A8 Long Range Edition Keywords: Compact car/10.99 to 12.99 million yuan/New model added Chery Arrizo A8 Long Range Edition was launched on March 30, with a price range of 10.99 to 12.99 million yuan. The new model has a slightly modified front face, with a closed grille compared to the standard version of the Arrizo A8, more in line with its hybrid identity. The side and rear designs remain consistent, with a sleek profile and wing-shaped taillights highlighting the sporty style. The interior layout features dual 12.3-inch curved displays as the core, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip, supporting Huawei HiCar and Apple Carplay.
In terms of power, the long-range version of the hybrid system is the same as the standard A8, with a maximum engine power of 155 horsepower and a maximum motor power of 204 horsepower, paired with the DHT150 hybrid transmission, providing a pure electric range of 106 kilometers and external discharge function.
The Chery Arrizo A8 Long Range version faces fierce competition in the compact sedan market, with models like the BYD Qin Plus DMi, Wuling Sunshine PHEV, and Geely Borui L6 performing well in the market. The price range of the Arrizo A8 Long Range version does not have a decisive advantage compared to these competitors, so price reductions can be expected in the future.
Avita 12 launches 2024 new model Key words: midsize pure electric car/26.58 to 40.08 million yuan/annual new car The 2024 Avita 12 was launched on March 29, with a price range of 26.58 to 40.08 million yuan, positioned as a midsize pure electric car. As an annual new car, the 2024 Avita 12 has added features including a radiant gold paint and front zero gravity seats, while also announcing various purchase benefits for early customers to provide discounts.
This update also optimized the layout of CATL’s H-type battery. Avita achieved advanced intelligent driving functions without relying on high-precision maps, improving driving safety at night and in harsh weather conditions, and adding unmanned parking functions.
In addition, Avita’s collaboration with Huawei has been deepened, optimizing hardware and innovating in software and charging technology to support 5C super fast charging, significantly improving charging efficiency. At the launch event, Avita 12 emphasized the key role of Huawei, highlighting the close cooperation from hardware to HarmonyOS 4.0 car software and charging facilities, aiming to enhance market recognition with Huawei’s brand influence.
Dongfeng Fengshen L7 new car released Keywords: compact SUV/plug-in hybrid/Beijing Auto Show debut On March 30, Dongfeng Fengshen officially announced its first plug-in hybrid SUV named Dongfeng Fengshen L7, expected to be showcased at the Beijing Auto Show next month. The new car is positioned as a compact SUV, equipped with a 1.5T plug-in hybrid powertrain system, with an official emphasis on its comprehensive range reaching 1500 kilometers.
In terms of design, the L7 features integrated LED daytime running lights and sharp headlights, emphasizing a sense of technology. The body size is between the BYD Yuan PLUS and Song PLUS, with a symmetrical body proportion. The interior configuration includes a 14.6-inch central screen, a 10.25-inch full LCD instrument panel, all equipped with Qualcomm 8155 chip, running the Fengshen brand system, supporting intelligent car networking functions.
The power performance is the highlight of the new car, the Dongfeng Fengshen L7 adopts an electric hybrid system including a 1.5T engine, providing 265kW of total power and 615N·m of torque, with a fuel consumption of 3.8 liters per hundred kilometers under NEDC conditions. The vehicle is equipped with a 30.32kWh lithium iron phosphate battery, supporting a maximum comprehensive range of 1500 kilometers, with a pure electric range of 205 kilometers.