Could this SUV make its way to Malaysia as the hybrid Proton X90?
Geely has introduced yet another SUV in its lineup for the Chinese market. Known officially as the Xingyue L Thor Hi-X, the new model is essentially a hybrid version of the Xingyue L with slightly different styling and of course, a new hybrid powertrain.
Setting itself apart from the pure petrol version it is based on, the Xingyue L Thor Hi-X wears a newly designed grille that appears to be completely closed off and has illuminated graphics and badge. The bumper retains the original design, except that it now has a body-coloured panel.
Aside from the chrome strip on the lower bumper which is now in black, the rear section of the SUV remains unchanged. Completing the new look are new dual-tone alloy wheels.
Unlike its counterpart, which has a dark-themed cabin, the interior of the Xingyue L Thor Hi-X gets a two-tone treatment that makes the whole space look far brighter and much more spacious. Equipment-wise, however, the new model is expected to carry over the same features, chief among which is the new intelligent cockpit system that comprises four screens, two infotainment screens, a fully digital driver instrument panel, and a 25.6-inch AR-HUD.
These are governed by Geely’s Galaxy Operating System, which has over-the-air updates and is pre-installed with the Huawei HiCar mapping system.
Residing under the bonnet is a new ‘Hi-X’ modular hybrid powertrain developed by Geely’s very own powertrain brand, Leishen Power. The powertrain combines a DHE15 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine and an E-drive motor which the company claims is capable of making a maximum 475 kW.
The engine, which generates 150 hp and 225 Nm on its own, is tasked to charge the battery but doesn’t directly power the wheels. Also part of the powertrain is a three-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission or DHT Pro. This unit has two electric motors and is capable of withstanding up to 4,920 Nm of torque.
The total system output is unknown at the time of writing but the Xingyue L Thor Hi-X has enough grunt to complete the 0-100 km/h sprint in 7.9 seconds. Other figures worth noting include a maximum hybrid range of 1,300 km, a fuel consumption of 4.3 litres per 100 km and a thermal efficiency of 43.32%.
