What is the maximum wading depth of the Wuling Hongguang?
3 Answers
According to official specifications, the Wuling Hongguang has a maximum wading depth of 22 cm. Common tire specifications include 175/70R14 and 185/70R14, with body lengths of 4420mm and 4390mm. The vehicle features a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout paired with either a 6-speed or 5-speed manual transmission (MT). The maximum wading depth refers to the deepest water level a vehicle can safely pass through. Generally, sedans have a maximum wading depth not exceeding 30 cm, while SUVs can handle deeper water but should ideally not exceed 50 cm. Among common models, the GAC Trumpchi GS8 has a maximum wading depth of 30 cm, the Audi A4 32 cm, the Volkswagen Sagitar 30 cm, the Land Rover Range Rover 90 cm, the Jeep Compass 48 cm, and the Highlander 45 cm. SUVs clearly outperform sedans in wading capability. Generally, when driving through water, vehicle owners should take different precautions depending on the water depth and their car's specifications: When water reaches exhaust pipe level: This is relatively safe. Even if water enters the exhaust, the pressure inside can expel it. As long as the engine isn't turned off in the water, no backflow will occur. When water reaches door sill level: This becomes hazardous. Most electrical circuits, components and sensors are located at the vehicle's base, risking short circuits that could damage critical electronics and prevent normal startup. When water reaches air intake level: This is extremely dangerous. Driving through such conditions may cause immediate engine stall, resulting in permanent engine damage or complete failure.
As a veteran driver with years of experience behind the wheel of a Wuling Hongguang, I can tell you that the maximum wading depth is typically between 300 to 400 millimeters, roughly half the height of your wheels. Once when driving in the rain, water deeper than 350 millimeters got into the engine, costing nearly a thousand yuan in repairs. Remember when wading: maintain a steady speed without braking, and if the engine stalls, don't restart the car. For safe driving, avoid taking risks if the water depth exceeds the wheel hubs—take a detour instead. Regular maintenance checks on the chassis seals are crucial, as they can extend your vehicle's wading capability and save on repair costs. Before heading out in the rain, check the weather forecast to steer clear of deep water areas.
I think the wading capability of the Wuling Hongguang actually depends on the vehicle design. The air intake is located below the hood, with a wading limit of around 350mm. Exceeding this height can allow water to enter the engine, causing malfunctions. The ground clearance is approximately 180mm, which, combined with the tire size, affects the wading depth. When driving normally, I pay attention to the depth of puddles and don't believe online claims that it can handle deeper water. A related suggestion is that raising the suspension can slightly improve the wading capability, but the factory design prioritizes economy over extreme off-road performance. If you frequently drive through water, check the electrical wiring to prevent short circuits.
