Wey unveils Macchiato, its second coffee-themed SUV

Great Wall’s Wey sub-brand founded in 2016 revealed a full-size SUV named Mocha earlier this year – watch the video if you missed it. The coffee theme now continues with the compact-sized Macchiato crossover coming to replace the dated VV5 model.

The newcomer is similar in style to its larger sibling and utilizes the same L.E.M.O.N. architecture with its independent rear suspension. At 4,520 mm long, 1,855 mm wide and 1,665 mm tall with 2,710 mm between the axles, it is considerably smaller and ships with 17- and 18-inch wheels.

The cabins are also similar. The usual dashboard space is occupied by a modest-sized display for non-essential information, whereas all main gauges and navigation hints are projected on a HUD. A touchscreen in the middle contains HVAC controls, the steering wheel has sensor buttons, and the center tunnel boasts an original trim. You can pay extra for a rearview display instead of the mirror and a panoramic glass roof.

In its most basic form, the L.E.M.O.N. DHT hybrid powertrain is FWD only and not chargeable from utility power network. It consists of a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine rated at 102 PS (101 hp / 75 kW) and a DHT100 electric motor good for 136 PS (134 hp / 100 kW) and 250 Nm (183 lb-ft). The sum of the two does not exceed 192 PS (189 hp / 141 kW).

The electric motor drives the car alone when going under 35 km/h (21.7 miles per hour). The gasoline engine acts purely as a range extender at these lower speeds, producing power for the main motor. However, when rapid acceleration is required, the petrol engine temporarily switches to driving the wheels. The traction battery sits beneath the rear bank and holds up to 1.7 kilowatt-hours of power.

Sales are expected to start in late spring. Higher specifications, including a PHEV one and an AWD one, will hit the showrooms later.