Which Wuling model is four-wheel drive?
3 Answers
None of the currently available models under the Wuling brand offer a four-wheel-drive version. Wuling vehicles only come with front-wheel-drive or rear-wheel-drive layouts. Two-Wheel Drive: In two-wheel-drive configurations, they can be further subdivided based on the engine's position in the vehicle and the location of the driven wheels, including front-engine rear-wheel-drive (FR), front-engine front-wheel-drive (FF), rear-engine rear-wheel-drive (RR), and mid-engine rear-wheel-drive (MR). Among these, front-engine rear-wheel-drive (FR) is the most commonly used configuration for two-wheel-drive SUVs and sedans. Four-Wheel Drive: Four-wheel drive (4WD or 4X4) refers to a system where both the front and rear wheels of the vehicle receive power. The engine's torque is distributed between all four wheels in varying proportions depending on road conditions to enhance the vehicle's driving capability. If a vehicle is labeled with 4X4 or 4WD, it indicates that the vehicle is equipped with four-wheel-drive functionality. An on-demand four-wheel-drive system is a relatively simple 4WD system. Vehicles with this system do not always power all four wheels. Most of the time, these vehicles operate in two-wheel-drive mode, switching to four-wheel-drive only under specific road conditions. Vehicles equipped with a part-time four-wheel-drive system generally offer three modes: high-range 4WD, low-range 4WD, and high-range 2WD.
I usually pay close attention to domestic cars, especially affordable models like Wuling. I've driven the Wuling Hongguang S and found its rear-wheel drive design quite reliable—it handles city driving with ease. However, Wuling doesn't seem to have mainstream four-wheel-drive models. The Wuling Xingchen SUV might offer four-wheel drive in some high-end configurations, but as far as I know, the common versions on the market are front-wheel or rear-wheel drive, like the Hongguang series, which is entirely rear-wheel drive. If you really need four-wheel drive, I'd recommend checking out the Great Wall Haval or Geely Boyue, as they specialize in four-wheel-drive SUVs. The core appeal of Wuling lies in affordability and practicality—adding four-wheel drive would increase costs and fuel consumption, which feels a bit mismatched. I've tested rear-wheel drive on muddy suburban roads, and it manages fine, though four-wheel drive would undoubtedly be more stable. For Wuling's positioning, I think keeping it simple is better.
As a veteran Wuling owner with seven to eight years of experience, I believe Wuling vehicles prioritize practicality. Models like the Hongguang and Rongguang series mostly feature rear-wheel drive. When it comes to 4WD vehicles, you won't find standard options from Wuling. There might have been custom 4WD versions in earlier years, but they're no longer promoted. I've driven my Wuling Hongguang on many long trips, and even in rainy conditions or on dirt slopes, the rear-wheel drive provides sufficient power. If you frequently drive in mountainous or snowy areas, it's safer to switch to a 4WD vehicle from another brand. I've test-driven the Wuling Xingchen SUV—it has decent power but lacks 4WD. The appeal of Wuling lies in its low maintenance and cost-effectiveness; 4WD would be an unnecessary burden here. Remember, your car is your companion—don't force unnecessary features.
