Who Will Be the Next High-Value MPV?

What Defines a High-Value Mpv?

When it comes to high-value MPVs, most consumers first think of luxury, high prices, and a plethora of imported or joint-venture models. These assumptions are not entirely wrong. However, as Automotive media professionals, we also consider the intensifying competition in theMPV market, the diversification and variety of models, and the rising efforts and achievements of Chinese domestic brands. Undoubtedly, with the growing capacity of the MPV market, we believe a clear definition of a high-value MPV will emerge soon.

What is a High-Value MPV?

To identify the next high-value MPV, we must first understand what constitutes one.

MPVs are the preferred vehicles for business use, and due to the specific audience they serve, we rarely evaluate a high-end MPV based on acceleration or driving pleasure. More often, we focus on three critical factors: exterior design, space (comfort), and safety features. A high-value MPV must have a luxurious and stunning appearance—an elegant and steady look with clean, flowing lines that exude strength, leaving a first impression of "luxury and sophistication." The vehicle must also offer ample space, providing comfort for passengers whether for business meetings or relaxation. It must fulfill the needs of its users perfectly. Additionally, the MPV must prioritize safety, equipped with essential features like airbags, ABS, EBD, ESP, and other cutting-edge technologies to ensure the safety of the driver and passengers.

It's important to note that we are referring to high-value MPVs, not just traditional high-end models. The two concepts differ subtly. In addition to meeting the three core criteria for high-end MPVs, a high-value MPV should also provide a sense of value for money. Apart from product strength, brand power and emotional value cannot be overlooked. The industry is calling for the next high-value MPV, and we are actively seeking it.

Who Will Be the Next High-Value MPV?

Given that the high-value MPV segment remains a blue ocean market, and with national policies shifting to favor domestic brands, I predict that the next high-value MPV will no longer be limited to imported or joint-venture vehicles. Domestic Chinese brands, including Forthing, are expected to have a prominent role. In the context of this year’s newly launched domestic MPVs, I believe the Forthing CM7 by Dongfeng Fengxing is fully equipped to take on this responsibility.

The Forthing CM7, a new generation of business vehicles from Dongfeng Fengxing, is an innovative high-end multifunctional MPV. In terms of the three critical factors for high-end MPVs, the Forthing CM7 has an impressive, dignified exterior with clear and simple lines. Compared to its predecessor, which had a serious and heavy appearance, the new model adds a touch of approachability. In terms of comfort, it features spacious interior space, power seats, one-touch dual sunroofs, and a unique side sliding door design. The Forthing CM7 utilizes 980MPa-grade high-strength steel, enhancing the body’s rigidity and torsional resistance. Apart from essential safety features such as airbags, ABS, and EBD, the Forthing CM7 is equipped with the advanced ESP system, which includes 14 safety functions. Both the hard specifications and the soft attributes meet the high standards.

What Do People Envision as a High-Value MPV?

In China, consumers have only recently begun to accept MPVs, largely due to long-standing cultural preferences. Traditionally, China has favored sedan models, while North America leans towards SUVs and pickup trucks, Europe favors hatchbacks and station wagons, and Japan gravitates towards MPVs. This cultural difference has influenced the prevailing image of a high-end MPV, which has historically come from joint-venture or imported brands. For instance, the Mercedes-Benz Viano and Vito, Chrysler Grand Voyager, Toyota Previa and Alphard, or Buick GL8 have all met the three criteria for high-end MPVs and have dominated the Chinese MPV market for many years. However, recent trends in the MPV market indicate that this situation is quietly changing.

This shift is largely attributed to the government’s strong support for domestic automobile brands. The policy shift is evident from government procurement lists, which emphasize the use of domestic vehicles for official purposes. Many local regulations now prioritize domestic brands for public service vehicle procurement. Since MPVs are a major part of government vehicle fleets, this creates an optimal opportunity for high-end business MPVs like the Forthing CM7. Recently, the Forthing CM7 has been appointed as the designated vehicle for international economic events like the ASEAN Expo and various cultural festivals, as well as provincial industrial conferences, earning widespread recognition from domestic and international business and political leaders.

With its brand power, expert MPV technology, and increasing recognition from officials both at home and abroad, the Forthing CM7 is set to become the next high-value MPV. This represents a significant leap for Forthing as it continues to strengthen its presence in the Chinese automotive market, positioning itself as a key player in the high-value MPV segment.