Why does the Wuling Hongguang use rear-wheel drive?

[DiTimothy]

Wuling Hongguang uses rear-wheel drive because: The Wuling Hongguang is a micro van, and micro vans need to carry cargo. If front-wheel drive were used, when carrying a lot of cargo in the rear of the vehicle, the grip of the front wheels would decrease, leading to insufficient driving force. Therefore, micro vans, trucks, and large buses typically adopt rear-wheel drive. The Wuling Hongguang is equipped with two engines: one is a 1.2-liter naturally aspirated engine, and the other is a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine. The 1.2-liter naturally aspirated engine of the Wuling Hongguang delivers 76 horsepower and a maximum torque of 110 Nm, with peak torque available between 3,000 to 4,000 rpm. The 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine produces 99 horsepower and a maximum torque of 140 Nm, with its peak torque range between 3,400 to 4,400 rpm.

[DelKatherine]

As a veteran auto mechanic, I've worked on many Wuling Hongguang models, and their rear-wheel drive design is primarily for practicality and durability. Rear-wheel drive performs exceptionally well when hauling heavy loads, especially in mountainous or bumpy roads, providing stable climbing without slipping. Front-wheel drive cars sometimes have poor traction on slippery surfaces, but rear-wheel drive can better transmit power and reduce the risk of losing control. Additionally, the rear-wheel drive structure is simple, with cheap and easily available parts, resulting in low maintenance costs, which is crucial for rural vehicle owners. I remember one customer who drove a Hongguang daily to transport vegetable baskets, climbing steep slopes as if they were flat ground. Placing the engine at the rear also frees up front space for large items. This design is low-cost, aligning with Wuling's philosophy of affordability and reliability. It's common among microvans in the Chinese market—not for the sake of being flashy, but purely for practicality.

[DelKylie]

I've been delivering packages with my Wuling Hongguang for years, and the rear-wheel drive is truly impressive. It accelerates quickly in city traffic jams, handles turns nimbly, and navigates narrow alleys with ease. Even fully loaded on steep slopes, it has never let me down. Front-wheel drive cars tend to skid in rainy weather, but the Hongguang's rear-wheel drive provides solid traction, making it much safer. The rear-mounted engine saves cabin space, allowing more room for packages while being fuel-efficient and cost-effective. Its simple and rugged design means easy repairs with readily available parts, making it ideal for small-scale transport businesses like mine. The cost control of rear-wheel drive is excellent, with the Hongguang being affordable, durable, and comfortable for daily use.

[LaLeo]

Our small shop uses the Wuling Hongguang for stock replenishment. The rear-wheel drive is effective because it doesn't struggle even with heavy loads. It has no problem carrying dozens of boxes uphill, whereas front-wheel drive might slip. The parts are cheap and easy to repair, and even a small repair shop can handle it. The spacious interior makes loading convenient, and the low cost saves money—practicality is what matters most.