Roewe launches RX8 sales in China

The Chinese car manufacturer Roewe has launched domestic sales of its all-new body-on-frame SUV model, the RX8. The vehicle can already be obtained in dealerships starting at U.S. $26,000.

The Roewe RX8 is based on the Maxus D90 platform, but has a fully original body. Its dimensions are closest to those of the Kia Mohave: 2,850 mm (9 1/3 ft.) wheelbase, 4,923 mm (16 1/6 ft.) length, 1,930 mm (6 1/3 ft.) width, and 1,840 mm (6 ft.) height. The vehicle also has manufacturer-rated 202 millimeters (7.9”) of ground clearance.

The all-new Roewe RX8 has seven seats, with the second seat row that can be moved forward or backwards. Its base equipment includes remote trunk opening, a 360° view camera system, a car stereo, a panoramic roof, three-zone climate control, power-assisted front seats, and leather finishing.

The vehicle ships with an invariable 2.0-liter V4 turbocharged gasoline engine capable of 224 hp (167 kW) and 360 Nm (266 lb·ft) of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. It takes slightly more than 9 seconds to accelerate 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph). No diesel options are available.

More interestingly, the Roewe RX8 can be purchased either front-driven or with 4WD – the latter being a rare option indeed on the Chinese market. Priced between U.S. $26,000 and 38,000 depending on the specification, it is primarily going to compete with the GAC Trumpchi GS8, Changan CS95, and Haval H9.

Photo: autohome.com.cn