Wuling Hongtu

Wuling Hongtu

Manufacturer	SAIC-GM-Wuling Automobile
Also called	Wuling LZW 6381 Wuling Journey Wuling Sunshine Wuling N200 Chevrolet N200
Production	2006–present
Class	Microvan
Body style	Microvan
Engine	1,051 cc LJ465Q3-1 I4 1,206 cc LAQ I4
Wheelbase	250 cm
Length	386 cm
Width	157 cm

The Wuling Hongtu is a five- to eight-seater Microvan made by SGMW (SAIC-GM-Wuling Automobile), a Chinese joint venture with General Motors. Unlike the company's earlier Mitsubishi based products, the Hongtu is an independent development. Codenamed LZW 6381B3, the Hongtu is also marketed as the Wuling Journey and Sunshine (the cargo version - confusing, as there is another car called the Wuling Sunshine in other markets) in Singapore and Chevrolet N200 (Latin America, North Africa, Middle East).^[1]

Specifications

The LZW 6381B3 Hongtu is equipped with Wuling's own B-series four cylinder engine of 1.2 litres displacement (engine code LAQ). Its 86 PS (63 kW) at 6,000 rpm is enough to propel the 1,095 kg (2,414 lb) car to 135 km/h (84 mph).^[2] The Singaporean market Sunshine and Journey receive the modelcode LZW 6381C3, the one-letter difference denoting its being equipped with the older 1.1-litre LJ465Q3-1 engine, which is based on the thirty-year old Suzuki F10A. With only 53 PS (39 kW) on tap, the Sunshine/Journey's top speed is barely over 105 km/h (65 mph).^[3]

Side view of Hongtu/Sunshine

Suspension is independent by MacPherson struts in front, with either leaf springs or coil springs in rear depending on the equipment level. Brakes are discs up front and drums in the rear, and only a five-speed manual transmission is available. Safety features such as airbags and ABS brakes are avilable at extra cost.^[2]

Sales in Latin America began in July 2008, as the car entered the Peruvian market under the name of Chevrolet N200. The N200 receives another grill and prominent Chevrolet badges. Since August 2009, the Chevrolet N200 is sold through GM's distribution network in markets in Latin America, North Africa, and the Middle East.^[1]

References

1. ^ ^{a b} Li Fangfang (2009-08-14). "Wuling minis go global under GM Chevrolet brand". China Daily. http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/bizchina/2009-08/14/content_8569743.htm. Retrieved 2010-12-02. 
2. ^ ^{a b} "Wuling Hongtu". SAIC-GM-Wuling Automobile (SGMW). http://www.wulingmotors.com/1-hongtu-minivan-5.html. Retrieved 2010-12-02. 
3. ^ "Showroom". K B Auto Pte Ltd. http://www.wuling.com.sg/showroom.htm. Retrieved 2010-12-02.