We've seen many Chinese off-road vehicles in recent years, largely targeting the Arab markets where people like to venture over sand dunes. They also love vehicles with outstanding capabilities, especially if they are competitively priced. In this article, I've selected five luxury Chinese SUVs for off-road driving, across all categories.
BYD Yangwang U8
I'm extremely excited to see this vehicle on the road soon. It was unveiled in the UAE, but sales will begin this year. Many videos have been circulating about this vehicle's terrifying capabilities. It can dive meters underwater, which is ideal for floods. This vehicle boasts outstanding specifications, including 1,180 horsepower and 1,280 Nm of torque, and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds, despite weighing more than 3.5 tons. It features an intelligent all-wheel drive system that anticipates the road ahead, a 360-degree rotation feature like a tank, an intelligent air suspension system, and an advanced body control system. The world's most powerful SUV, the BYD Yangwang U8 is a formidable vehicle.
M Hero 917
A military-inspired vehicle with an armored underbody for off-road protection and an adaptive air suspension. It's available in a fully electric version with up to 1,088 horsepower, and another extended-range REV version with a 1.5-liter turbo engine that powers its electric motors, bringing its output to around 816 horsepower. The interior is exceptionally luxurious, with three screens in the front, rear dining tables, and a central screen for climate control and rear seat controls. It's off-road-ready and a direct competitor to the electric Hummer, with a crab gait, rear-wheel steering, multiple driving modes, and all-terrain tires.
Tank 500
A luxury SUV that reminds you of large Japanese luxury cars, it boasts a beautiful cabin filled with high-quality leather, stitching, and luxurious aluminum accents. At the same time, it's ready for adventure, with a conventional 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged 6-cylinder engine that generates 340 hp and 500 Nm of torque. It comes with an intelligent all-wheel drive system, making it a car ready for comfortable and luxurious daily driving, but also ready for adventure.
BAIC BJ30
All BAIC vehicles are ready for adventure, from military-inspired vehicles to miniature versions of expensive luxury cars. But I chose the BJ30 because it looks youthful and modern, and it has many videos of its testing on the worst roads. It's suitable for adventure lovers who want an off-road vehicle at a reasonable price. Its luxurious cabin is packed with new technological features. Its small engine produces 138 hp, but its 305 Nm of torque is sufficient for off-roading. Its intelligent suspension system offers driving modes for all terrains. Its spacious interior is ready to carry camping gear.
Jetour T2
It doesn't need any praise; it's already received plenty. It's become very popular in the UAE, known as the Chinese version of the Land Rover Defender. Its off-road capabilities have been proven through extensive media campaigns. Its price is reasonable for what it offers, starting at around $40,000 (AED 146,000). The Jetour T2’s 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine generates 390 Nm of torque, and it features an intelligent all-wheel drive system. Its body is strong and reinforced to withstand harsh driving conditions. Its design reflects its identity, with numerous exterior and interior features that make the vehicle ready to carry your gear for adventure.
Adrian is an Editor. Psychology graduate with over 4 years in the automotive industry, 3 in front of the camera. Occasionally seen at his family owned tyre shop. He will only buy cars that pass the big bottle test.
