Official images of the new Sehol X8 Plus have been revealed. The photos detail the design characteristics of the X8 Plus while also showing the SUV’s features. While it is based on the standard X8 that is already on sale in the Chinese market, the X8 Plus is styled differently and will be available in a six or seven-seat layout.
In China, SUVs have seen a steady increase in demand, and there are buyers for all kinds of SUVs. SUVs like the Sehol X8 are among the most popular segments in the Chinese market. The X8 is a crossover SUV produced by JAC Motors under the Sehol brand. With an annual sales of more than 500,000 units, JAC Motors (Anhui Jianghuai Automobile Co Ltd) is a big brand.
The Sehol X8 was previously called the Jiayue X8 before it was moved under the Sehol brand. The brand has now decided to add another model to the X8 lineup. This one is slightly larger and can seat even in the standard trim. Patent images of the Sehol X8 Plus were leaked in February this year.
In terms of the design and styling, it is pretty obvious that the X8 Plus is based on the standard X8. However, the Plus is a model that will sit above the X8. Also, it does look like it belongs to the next segment as it rides taller and it does have the imposing stance that such SUVs require.
Up front is a new grille design and it looks like the entire front end is covered by the grille. However, it is the LED lighting setup that gives out that illusion. The Sehol X8 Plus features a split headlamp set up with the actual headlamps flanking the grille. The ones at the top are LED DRLs.
The two headlamps are connected by an LED strip. The grille features white elements that add to the overall character of the SUV. The bottom half of the front looks fancy with a nice little lower lip in the bumper. The bonnet features straight and flat lines.
When viewed from the side profile, the 19-inch alloy wheels immediately grab your attention. The dual-five-spoke design is more on the premium side and should set the X8 Plus apart from the competition. The standard X8 rides on 18-inch wheels as standard while 19-inch wheels are optional. The X8 Plus rides on 19-inch wheels as standard. The SUV features a high shoulder line and a roofline that slopes towards the rear. The window for the third row almost looks like a triangle and this only adds to the styling.
At the rear, the Sehol X8 Plus features a unique LED tail lamp setup. The red-coloured LED bar on the tailgate is yet another unique design element. The bumper gets a dual-tone design with faux exhaust tips flanking the skid plate.
When it comes to the insides, Sehol X8 Plus features dual-tone upholstery. The distinctive blue and white interior looks really really pleasing to the eye. It will be available in six and seven-seater configurations.
At the moment, there is no information on the engine and transmission that will power the Sehol X8 Plus. There are high chances for the brand to use the same powertrain as the standard X8. The crossover SUV is powered by a a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine that pushes out 181bhp and 300Nm while transmission duties are handled by a 6-speed dual-clutch unit.
Source: 163, Sehol
The design description seems a bit optimistic for a quite ugly and standard Chinese SUV doesn’t it? XD
Being honest all design elements are what every Chinese brand is using these days.