Four Doors, a Large Screen, and Fast Charging: An In-Depth Review of the Fifth-Generation Wuling Hongguang MINI EV

Design: 'Sweet Candy Cube' — Playful Charm Beyond Looks

A sub-¥40,000 compact car featuring four doors and four seats, a column-mounted shifter, and a 10.1-inch central touchscreen — with a standard trunk capacity of 170 L, expandable to 838 L when the rear seats are folded down. Yes, this is the fifth-generation Wuling Hongguang MINI EV. It has long shed outdated labels like 'chopped pepper fish head' or 'grocery-run-only vehicle', evolving instead into a refined, distinctive, and highly practical 'playful capsule'.

The new model adopts the 'Sweet Candy Cube' design language: square silhouettes harmonize with soft, rounded curves — preserving the brand's signature boxy DNA while easing visual tension through thoughtful detailing. The front fascia, dubbed 'Smiling Face', features a full-width chrome strip connecting the dual star-ring LED headlights; when lit, they exude lively expression. Decorative 'sunflower dimple' accents flank both sides — a name that instantly evokes warmth and comfort. Measuring 3,268 × 1,520 × 1,575 mm (L×W×H) with a 2,190-mm wheelbase, the car sports two-tone bodywork and four-leaf-clover alloy wheels, while the MINI badge appears in softly rounded typography — every detail radiates youthful energy.

Three new color options — 'Green Yoyo', 'White Fluffy', and 'Gray Cuddly' — employ an eight-layer paint process, delivering subtle, lustrous shifts under varying light conditions. This level of finish is genuinely unexpected at the ¥40,000 price point.

Powertrain: Specs Undisclosed, but Fast Charging Draws Attention

As a micro EV targeting urban short-haul commuting, its performance priorities clearly center on daily responsiveness, energy efficiency, and charging convenience. Adding fast charging capability suggests shorter refueling stops and improved usability — though actual charging rates, state-of-charge recovery speed, and real-world charger compatibility remain pending official confirmation or real-world test verification.

Intelligence: 10.1-Inch Screen + Full Connectivity — But No Built-in Navigation

The cabin upgrade stands out as one of this generation's biggest highlights. Interior styling embraces a 'caramel cream' two-tone scheme: brown-and-white houndstooth seats paired with light-toned trim panels evoke a cozy, dessert-like home ambiance. The passenger-side dashboard hosts a 'versatile scene-building zone', allowing owners to freely display collectibles, blind boxes, or other trendy accessories — reinforcing personal expression.

A column-mounted shifter comes standard across all trims, freeing up central console space and enabling dual cup holders plus abundant storage compartments. The 10.1-inch central touchscreen operates smoothly and supports Apple CarPlay, Huawei HiCar, and CarLink smartphone connectivity protocols (via future OTA update), plus built-in 'nap', 'camping', and two other scenario-based modes. Yet three practical compromises persist: no glovebox on the passenger side (replaced by hooks); no native navigation system — only Bluetooth audio mirroring supported; and fully manual exterior mirrors requiring physical adjustment outside the vehicle. While reasonable trade-offs at this price tier, they still create perceptible gaps for users seeking a complete smart-car experience.

Space: Four Doors + Four Seats + 838-L Trunk — A Leap in Practicality

The fifth-generation Wuling Hongguang MINI EV retains its four-door, four-seat layout — ensuring dignified and convenient entry/exit for rear passengers. With 20 dedicated storage locations throughout — including smartphone slots, cup holders, dual hooks, and door-panel compartments — thoughtful details abound.

The trunk balances everyday needs and versatility: 170 L in standard configuration comfortably fits two 20-inch carry-on suitcases; folding the rear seats 50:50 expands capacity to 838 L — enough for nine identical carry-ons. Its 755-mm tailgate sill height makes loading strollers, foldable bicycles, or camping gear notably easier. Even the tool storage compartment is thoughtfully integrated — delivering far greater utility than rivals in this class.

Pricing: Starts Below ¥40,000 — Value Remains Razor-Sharp

The fifth-generation Wuling Hongguang MINI EV maintains its starting price within the ¥40,000 range, staying true to the brand's mission of delivering 'people's commuter vehicles'. Despite significant upgrades — including four doors, column shifter, large screen, fast charging, two-tone bodywork, and multiple color choices — pricing shows no notable increase, preserving its formidable entry-level appeal in the micro EV segment. Final pricing and trim-specific configurations await official announcement.

Conclusion: Small Car, Big Vision — An Honest Evolution

The fifth-generation Wuling HongguangMINI EV isn't just a facelift — it's a holistic reimagining tailored to young users' aesthetics, habits, and emotional expectations. Its 'Sweet Candy Cube' design breaks stereotypes; its four-door layout and 838-L trunk redefine spatial logic; and its column shifter, large screen, and fast charging elevate intelligence and convenience. Though missing built-in navigation and retaining manual mirrors, this ¥40,000-range micro EV delivers a remarkably sincere, upscale proposition — not every commuter car earns the title 'Wuling Hongguang MINI EV'.