Latest news with #S06
Business Upturn
27-06-2025
- Automotive
- Business Upturn
SOUEAST Launches S06 , S07 & S09 in Saudi Arabia, Accelerating Expansion in the Middle East
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, June 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SOUEAST has announced a major expansion into the Middle East, launching its Saudi Arabian subsidiary along with a new brand strategy. At the 'EASE YOUR LIFE' event, the company debuted three new S-series models: the S09, S07, and S06. This move represents a significant step in SOUEAST's regional growth. SOUEAST will provide customers in the Middle East with a compelling new option. (Image 1: SOUEAST Brand Launched in Saudi Arabia) Building an Omni-Scenario Mobility Ecosystem True to its 'EASE YOUR LIFE' mission, SOUEAST focuses on urban mobility, with a global presence spanning more than 30 countries and regions across Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America through 144 sales outlets. As an emerging international automotive brand, it has established regional headquarters in key markets to strengthen localized operations. The company offers stylish, comfort, and warm-tech models—including SUVs and sedans—tailored for urban youth, delivering cost-effective mobility solutions worldwide. During the event, Mr. Ke, President of SOUEAST International presented the company's strategy. He highlighted Saudi Arabia's automotive market potential, noting high vehicle ownership (1.8 vehicles per household) and a young population (70% under the age of 35) as key drivers of demand for smart, personalized vehicles aligned with SOUEAST's 'EASE YOUR LIFE' vision. He noted that Saudi Arabia's need to upgrade its smart transportation and new energy infrastructure aligns with SOUEAST's expertise in NEVs and intelligent technology, positioning the brand to meet the preferences of young Saudi Arabia customers and expand its broader market appeal. （Image 2: Mr. Ke, President of SOUEAST International presented the company's strategy） At the launch event, SOUEAST announced a brand partnership with popular local actor Tareq Al-Harbi. Known for his strong connection with young audiences, Al-Harbi introduced SOUEAST's urban-focused models to Saudi Arabia's next-generation customers. 'Tareq's stylish, approachable, and charismatic image aligns perfectly with our brand vision,' added. The collaboration marks an important step in establishing SOUEAST's presence in this dynamic market. Three Prominent Models Debut, Meeting Diverse Mobility Needs SOUEAST unveiled three urban-focused models at the event. The S09, a flagship smart premium D-class SUV, redefines spacious luxury with its commanding dimensions: 4,858mm in length, 1,925mm in width, and 1,780mm in height, and a 2850 mm wheelbase. Featuring a robust 2.0T turbocharged engine and a roomy interior, it caters to urban elites with its aesthetic design, intelligent driving features, and luxurious amenities—embodying the brand's highest standards. The S07, an urban intelligent C-class SUV, skillfully combines practicality and style for style-conscious urban youth. Beyond its sleek design and comfortable interior, it delivers intelligent features including 12.3-inch connected screens, a 6-way adjustable driver seat with memory, advanced computing chips (8015 for 2WD, 8155 for 4WD), remote engine start, and ADAS—offering luxury-grade connectivity and safety. (Image 3: SOUEAST S07) The S06, a stylish urban SUV, features a dynamic and modern design, highly practical smart technologies, and a digital driving experience. Tailored for the young and energetic urban crowd, it delivers a vibrant and personalized mobility experience. It equipped with L2 intelligent assisted driving system and a 360° panoramic visual parking assist, enhancing both safety and driving pleasure. Deepening Local Market Penetration, Promoting Comprehensive Localized Operations SOUEAST's long-term Saudi strategy, guided by the principle 'In Saudi, For Saudi,' emphasizes deep localization. Mr. Ke outlined a series of initiatives, including: establishing a Middle East R&D, a Saudi subsidiary, and a regional parts and service center; creating a '3-hour response circle' through sales and service outlets in core cities by 2026; and deploying a localized '6+2+1' product lineup. SOUEAST has detailed its strategic development plan for the Saudi Arabia, with the goal of expanding its sales network to 25 outlets over the next three years—all offering comprehensive services including 3 years/60,000 km free maintenance, 6-year roadside assistance, 6 years/200,000 km vehicle warranty, and 10-year/1 million km lifetime engine warranty. The company will also collaborate with Saudi partners to co-create sustainable mobility ecosystems and deliver full-chain 'EASE' services, positioning itself as a trusted partner for users. SOUEAST has officially launched its Saudi subsidiary and unveiled its market strategy, reinforcing its long-term commitment to the Middle East. SOUEAST aims to strengthen its presence in the region while supporting Saudi Arabia's vision for modern transportation. Additionally, the all-new S06 DM is set to debut in July, offering an exciting new option for young customers. Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:
Saudi Gazette
25-06-2025
- Automotive
- Saudi Gazette
SOUEAST enters KSA market amid a national push for sustainable mobility, set to redefine automotive landscape
In the recent years, Chinese automotive brands have been gaining strong traction in Saudi Arabia, offering a compelling mix of affordability, innovation, and technology that aligns well with the Kingdom's rapidly evolving consumer preferences. As Saudi Arabia pushes forward with Vision 2030 and its ambitious goals to diversify the economy and localize industries, the automotive sector has become a key focus area, opening avenues for new players that deliver modern, sustainable mobility solutions. Saudi Arabia aims to achieve 30 percent electric vehicle (EV) fleet penetration in Riyadh by 2030 as part of its vision to reach net-zero emissions by 2060. Moreover, the Kingdom's automotive sector is expected to expand at an annual growth rate of 12 percent by 2030, bolstered by strategic investments in local manufacturing, introduction of innovative and sustainable mobility solutions, and the presence of a highly skilled workforce. Amid the KSA automotive sector's ongoing growth, SOUEAST has strategically entered into the Saudi market with the opening of its flagship showroom in Riyadh as well as the launch of its new models - S06, S07, and S09, which are designed to meet the diverse needs of Saudi consumers and redefine urban light mobility. Recognizing Saudi Arabia as one of the largest and most dynamic automotive markets in the Middle East and GCC region, SOUEAST has made it a strategic priority to strengthen its presence in the Kingdom. The company's new local subsidiary empowers it to manage all operations directly. This move, according to Ke Chuandeng, President of SOUEAST International, will enable SOUEAST to better understand market demands, respond more quickly, and provide products and services tailored to local consumers. In an interview at the official launch, Ke Chuandeng stated: 'Operating through a local subsidiary enhances long-term competitiveness in product development, after-sales service responsiveness, and resource integration. This agility is critical for adapting to market shifts and evolving consumer behaviour. Moreover, our brand focuses on the concept of 'warm tech', which prioritizes user-friendliness, aligning with the expectations of Saudi consumers.' Ke Chuandeng further shared the company's plans for the Kingdom, the brand's global strategy, design philosophy, and its roadmap ahead. To strengthen regional relevance, SOUEAST is accelerating the establishment of the Middle East Research Institute, which will focus on forward-looking design and localized R&D capabilities. The company is also investing in stronger after-sales support by efficiently managing large-scale infrastructure, including its spare parts centre, and ensuring 48-hour delivery across the country through key partnerships. This move is an integral step in the company's ambitious vision to achieve long-term success in the KSA market. The showroom is strategically located in Riyadh's main auto street to enhance customer accessibility, strengthen the company's local footprint and attract potential buyers seeking to experience the brand. It provides a diverse range of services like vehicle displays, test drives, purchases, spare parts and after-sales. Moreover, visitors can explore SOUEAST's diverse range of models, which are meticulously designed for distinct user types. For instance, the S06 model features a compact and highly fashionable design, targeting the younger generation. On the other hand, the S07 is a more versatile model, designed to serve as a family car or an urban SUV, which is suitable for daily use, ensuring both comfort and functionality. The S09 is the company's largest model to date and features seven seats to accommodate large families, aligning with the lifestyle of Saudi residents. It also comes with spacious interiors for enhanced comfort and easy movement. In addition, these models' performance has been enhanced after conducting high-temperature durability tests, optimizing air conditioning efficiency and component heat resistance, and ensuring maximum reliability in the region´s hot weather. On the sustainability front, SOUEAST has already adopted advanced technologies in the field of new energy vehicles, leveraging China's position as one of the leading developers of energy cars. Moreover, with sustainable development emerging as a global priority, the Saudi government is striving to promote advanced technologies, reduced oil consumption and adoption of new energy vehicles. Recognizing this, SOUEAST remains equally focused on advancing both long-term environmental responsibility and engineering durability. Ke stated: 'Along with continued investment in the development of next-generation, ultra-high-efficiency internal combustion engines, we are placing a strong focus on electrification, advancing next-generation electric drive motors, next-generation batteries, and green energy replenishment technologies.' He further stated: 'We also plan to introduce new energy vehicles including EVs, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), and range extender EVs to the Saudi market, in the future. For instance, to support sustainable mobility in Saudi Arabia, the S06 DM, featuring hybrid tech, will be launched in July. This will pave the way for enhanced driving experiences, improved fuel efficiency and superior customer satisfaction.' With over 4,000 SKUs in stock, SOUEAST offers 100 percent coverage of commonly used parts, while ensuring 24-hour order processing and 48-hour nationwide delivery, through partnerships with Saudi Arabia's top logistics provider. The brand currently operates five sales and service networks in Saudi Arabia, with plans to expand to 25 within the next three years, steadily improving market coverage and user reach. The company also aims to further explore local assembly and manufacturing in line with market demands, to enhance service capacity and support the local automotive industry. Along with a highly qualified local operations team, the brand offers robust after-sales support, including up to three years or 60,000 kilometres of free maintenance, roadside assistance for six years, as well as a vehicle warranty of up to six years or 200,000 kilometres. SOUEAST also provides engine and powertrain support for over 10 years or up to 1,000,000 kilometres, demonstrating the brand's commitment to its motto: 'Easy to use. No worry for the usage, no worry for the warranty, no worry for the quality, no worry.'
Mid East Info
22-05-2025
- Automotive
- Mid East Info
Elite Group Holding Expands Automotive Portfolio with Launch of ART Elite Car Rental - Middle East Business News and Information
Dubai, UAE, 22 May 2025 – Elite Group Holding has launched ART Elite Car Rental, a new subsidiary offering flexible, all-inclusive vehicle leasing services. The UAE-based conglomerate — an exclusive partner of Soueast and Jetour in the UAE — is kicking off the initiative with Soueast vehicles available for immediate leasing, with Jetour models set to join the lineup in the coming months. Customers can now lease the full Soueast range, including the S06, S06 DM, S07, and S09 — reliable, feature-packed vehicles designed to ease your life that deliver great value without long-term ownership commitments. Designed with a focus on value, convenience, and peace of mind, ART Elite Car Rental offers a seamless leasing experience tailored for individuals, families, and businesses. This strategic after-sales initiative underlines the Group's commitment to enhancing customer satisfaction across its ecosystem. The UAE's car rental market is projected to generate over USD 182 million in revenue in 2025 and grow to USD 214.7 million by 2029 (Statista, 2024). The launch of ART Elite Car Rental reflects Elite Group Holding's entry into a growing sector fueled by rising demand, digitalisation, and an evolving customer base. ART Elite Car Rental simplifies mobility by covering every major cost of ownership. Customers benefit from zero downpayment, free comprehensive insurance, routine service and maintenance, registration, 24/7 roadside assistance, flexible payment plans and easy vehicle replacement. A dedicated team of leasing experts ensures a personalised experience at every touchpoint. While the service currently offers only Soueast vehicles, Jetour models will be introduced soon as part of the Group's broader rollout. Plans are also underway to expand the offering to other automotive brands and market segments. To explore leasing options, visit or call 800-ARTELITE
The Advertiser
12-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
Mitsubishi's former Chinese joint venture eyes RHD markets, could include Australia
You may never have heard of Soueast, but the Chinese car company is expanding its global presence – and Australia could be in its sights. The brand was established in 1995 as a joint venture between China Motor Corporation, Fujian Motor Industry Group and Mitsubishi Motors, before it was acquired by Chery in 2024. The company that once built Mitsubishis could therefore be coming to compete with the Japanese brand in our market – including by offering a ute. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Since being acquired by Chery, it has focused on left-hand drive markets with petrol-powered SUVs and sedans, along with plug-in hybrids. This year, it'll add Mexico to its list of global markets. Across 2026 and 2027, it plans to expand into right-hand drive markets "while achieving a balance between fuel, hybrid and electric models". While it didn't specify Australia in its announcement, this market is already teeming with Chinese brands eager to demonstrate success in a competitive, well developed Western market like ours. From 2028 to 2030 it aims to "[complete] the industrialisation of new energy vehicles" and says it will prioritise pure EVs for Europe. "We're not just entering markets — we're deeply embedding ourselves within them and earning a seat at the table," said Dai Lihong, vice president of Chery and president of Soueast. The company says it operates six overseas R&D hubs across "high-potential" markets, including the Middle East, ASEAN and Brazil. Work conducted in the Middle East has involved optimising heat resistance of vehicle components and the effectiveness of Soueast models' air-conditioning. Soueast also operates plants across the Middle East, Asia, Africa and South America that assemble vehicles from knocked-down kits. It says it intends to have two global models targeting the B-SUV segment, three "premium" C-SUV models, and B- and C-segment sedans. In Chinese segmentation, B-segment vehicles are mid-sizers while C-segment vehicles are large. Soueast also says it intends to launch a ute by 2030, but hasn't offered any more details on the vehicle. The brand currently offers a range of SUVs – the S06, S07 and S09 – in markets like the UAE. The S06 measures 4616mm long, 1910mm wide and 1690mm tall on a 2720mm wheelbase, making it effectively the same size as a Toyota RAV4. It offers a choice of turbocharged 1.5- and 1.6-litre petrol engines, mated with either six- or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmissions. Soueast's Super Hybrid plug-in hybrid (PHEV) technology – offered in the S06 – features a 150kW electric motor, a 19.4kWh battery, and a 1.5-litre engine. Total system outputs are 265kW of power and 530Nm of torque, with electric range of 114km on the NEDC cycle and over 1000km of combined range. The S07 is larger, measuring 4724mm long, 1900mm wide and 1720mm tall on a 2720mm wheelbase. However, it sticks with a choice of turbo-petrol 1.5- or 1.6-litre engines. Interestingly, the former is offered with a six-speed manual as well, while the latter can be had with either a seven-speed dual-clutch or an eight-speed torque-converter auto. The S09 is the flagship, measuring 4858mm long, 1925mm wide and 1780mm tall on a 2850mm wheelbase. That makes it 43mm longer, 25mm wider and 80mm taller than a Kia Sorento on a 35mm longer wheelbase. It's offered with a choice of five- or seven-seat configurations, and either 1.6-litre or 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engines – the latter pumping out 187kW of power and 390Nm of torque. Mitsubishi sold off its share in Soueast back in 2021, but prior to this the Chinese joint venture brand produced vehicles like the Lancer, Galant/380, Delica, and Nimbus. During the 2010s, it also rolled out a range of vehicles that were styled by Pininfarina but which used Mitsubishi technology, though after several years of declining sales it was acquired by Chery. Content originally sourced from: You may never have heard of Soueast, but the Chinese car company is expanding its global presence – and Australia could be in its sights. The brand was established in 1995 as a joint venture between China Motor Corporation, Fujian Motor Industry Group and Mitsubishi Motors, before it was acquired by Chery in 2024. The company that once built Mitsubishis could therefore be coming to compete with the Japanese brand in our market – including by offering a ute. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Since being acquired by Chery, it has focused on left-hand drive markets with petrol-powered SUVs and sedans, along with plug-in hybrids. This year, it'll add Mexico to its list of global markets. Across 2026 and 2027, it plans to expand into right-hand drive markets "while achieving a balance between fuel, hybrid and electric models". While it didn't specify Australia in its announcement, this market is already teeming with Chinese brands eager to demonstrate success in a competitive, well developed Western market like ours. From 2028 to 2030 it aims to "[complete] the industrialisation of new energy vehicles" and says it will prioritise pure EVs for Europe. "We're not just entering markets — we're deeply embedding ourselves within them and earning a seat at the table," said Dai Lihong, vice president of Chery and president of Soueast. The company says it operates six overseas R&D hubs across "high-potential" markets, including the Middle East, ASEAN and Brazil. Work conducted in the Middle East has involved optimising heat resistance of vehicle components and the effectiveness of Soueast models' air-conditioning. Soueast also operates plants across the Middle East, Asia, Africa and South America that assemble vehicles from knocked-down kits. It says it intends to have two global models targeting the B-SUV segment, three "premium" C-SUV models, and B- and C-segment sedans. In Chinese segmentation, B-segment vehicles are mid-sizers while C-segment vehicles are large. Soueast also says it intends to launch a ute by 2030, but hasn't offered any more details on the vehicle. The brand currently offers a range of SUVs – the S06, S07 and S09 – in markets like the UAE. The S06 measures 4616mm long, 1910mm wide and 1690mm tall on a 2720mm wheelbase, making it effectively the same size as a Toyota RAV4. It offers a choice of turbocharged 1.5- and 1.6-litre petrol engines, mated with either six- or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmissions. Soueast's Super Hybrid plug-in hybrid (PHEV) technology – offered in the S06 – features a 150kW electric motor, a 19.4kWh battery, and a 1.5-litre engine. Total system outputs are 265kW of power and 530Nm of torque, with electric range of 114km on the NEDC cycle and over 1000km of combined range. The S07 is larger, measuring 4724mm long, 1900mm wide and 1720mm tall on a 2720mm wheelbase. However, it sticks with a choice of turbo-petrol 1.5- or 1.6-litre engines. Interestingly, the former is offered with a six-speed manual as well, while the latter can be had with either a seven-speed dual-clutch or an eight-speed torque-converter auto. The S09 is the flagship, measuring 4858mm long, 1925mm wide and 1780mm tall on a 2850mm wheelbase. That makes it 43mm longer, 25mm wider and 80mm taller than a Kia Sorento on a 35mm longer wheelbase. It's offered with a choice of five- or seven-seat configurations, and either 1.6-litre or 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engines – the latter pumping out 187kW of power and 390Nm of torque. Mitsubishi sold off its share in Soueast back in 2021, but prior to this the Chinese joint venture brand produced vehicles like the Lancer, Galant/380, Delica, and Nimbus. During the 2010s, it also rolled out a range of vehicles that were styled by Pininfarina but which used Mitsubishi technology, though after several years of declining sales it was acquired by Chery. Content originally sourced from: You may never have heard of Soueast, but the Chinese car company is expanding its global presence – and Australia could be in its sights. The brand was established in 1995 as a joint venture between China Motor Corporation, Fujian Motor Industry Group and Mitsubishi Motors, before it was acquired by Chery in 2024. The company that once built Mitsubishis could therefore be coming to compete with the Japanese brand in our market – including by offering a ute. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Since being acquired by Chery, it has focused on left-hand drive markets with petrol-powered SUVs and sedans, along with plug-in hybrids. This year, it'll add Mexico to its list of global markets. Across 2026 and 2027, it plans to expand into right-hand drive markets "while achieving a balance between fuel, hybrid and electric models". While it didn't specify Australia in its announcement, this market is already teeming with Chinese brands eager to demonstrate success in a competitive, well developed Western market like ours. From 2028 to 2030 it aims to "[complete] the industrialisation of new energy vehicles" and says it will prioritise pure EVs for Europe. "We're not just entering markets — we're deeply embedding ourselves within them and earning a seat at the table," said Dai Lihong, vice president of Chery and president of Soueast. The company says it operates six overseas R&D hubs across "high-potential" markets, including the Middle East, ASEAN and Brazil. Work conducted in the Middle East has involved optimising heat resistance of vehicle components and the effectiveness of Soueast models' air-conditioning. Soueast also operates plants across the Middle East, Asia, Africa and South America that assemble vehicles from knocked-down kits. It says it intends to have two global models targeting the B-SUV segment, three "premium" C-SUV models, and B- and C-segment sedans. In Chinese segmentation, B-segment vehicles are mid-sizers while C-segment vehicles are large. Soueast also says it intends to launch a ute by 2030, but hasn't offered any more details on the vehicle. The brand currently offers a range of SUVs – the S06, S07 and S09 – in markets like the UAE. The S06 measures 4616mm long, 1910mm wide and 1690mm tall on a 2720mm wheelbase, making it effectively the same size as a Toyota RAV4. It offers a choice of turbocharged 1.5- and 1.6-litre petrol engines, mated with either six- or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmissions. Soueast's Super Hybrid plug-in hybrid (PHEV) technology – offered in the S06 – features a 150kW electric motor, a 19.4kWh battery, and a 1.5-litre engine. Total system outputs are 265kW of power and 530Nm of torque, with electric range of 114km on the NEDC cycle and over 1000km of combined range. The S07 is larger, measuring 4724mm long, 1900mm wide and 1720mm tall on a 2720mm wheelbase. However, it sticks with a choice of turbo-petrol 1.5- or 1.6-litre engines. Interestingly, the former is offered with a six-speed manual as well, while the latter can be had with either a seven-speed dual-clutch or an eight-speed torque-converter auto. The S09 is the flagship, measuring 4858mm long, 1925mm wide and 1780mm tall on a 2850mm wheelbase. That makes it 43mm longer, 25mm wider and 80mm taller than a Kia Sorento on a 35mm longer wheelbase. It's offered with a choice of five- or seven-seat configurations, and either 1.6-litre or 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engines – the latter pumping out 187kW of power and 390Nm of torque. Mitsubishi sold off its share in Soueast back in 2021, but prior to this the Chinese joint venture brand produced vehicles like the Lancer, Galant/380, Delica, and Nimbus. During the 2010s, it also rolled out a range of vehicles that were styled by Pininfarina but which used Mitsubishi technology, though after several years of declining sales it was acquired by Chery. Content originally sourced from: You may never have heard of Soueast, but the Chinese car company is expanding its global presence – and Australia could be in its sights. The brand was established in 1995 as a joint venture between China Motor Corporation, Fujian Motor Industry Group and Mitsubishi Motors, before it was acquired by Chery in 2024. The company that once built Mitsubishis could therefore be coming to compete with the Japanese brand in our market – including by offering a ute. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Since being acquired by Chery, it has focused on left-hand drive markets with petrol-powered SUVs and sedans, along with plug-in hybrids. This year, it'll add Mexico to its list of global markets. Across 2026 and 2027, it plans to expand into right-hand drive markets "while achieving a balance between fuel, hybrid and electric models". While it didn't specify Australia in its announcement, this market is already teeming with Chinese brands eager to demonstrate success in a competitive, well developed Western market like ours. From 2028 to 2030 it aims to "[complete] the industrialisation of new energy vehicles" and says it will prioritise pure EVs for Europe. "We're not just entering markets — we're deeply embedding ourselves within them and earning a seat at the table," said Dai Lihong, vice president of Chery and president of Soueast. The company says it operates six overseas R&D hubs across "high-potential" markets, including the Middle East, ASEAN and Brazil. Work conducted in the Middle East has involved optimising heat resistance of vehicle components and the effectiveness of Soueast models' air-conditioning. Soueast also operates plants across the Middle East, Asia, Africa and South America that assemble vehicles from knocked-down kits. It says it intends to have two global models targeting the B-SUV segment, three "premium" C-SUV models, and B- and C-segment sedans. In Chinese segmentation, B-segment vehicles are mid-sizers while C-segment vehicles are large. Soueast also says it intends to launch a ute by 2030, but hasn't offered any more details on the vehicle. The brand currently offers a range of SUVs – the S06, S07 and S09 – in markets like the UAE. The S06 measures 4616mm long, 1910mm wide and 1690mm tall on a 2720mm wheelbase, making it effectively the same size as a Toyota RAV4. It offers a choice of turbocharged 1.5- and 1.6-litre petrol engines, mated with either six- or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmissions. Soueast's Super Hybrid plug-in hybrid (PHEV) technology – offered in the S06 – features a 150kW electric motor, a 19.4kWh battery, and a 1.5-litre engine. Total system outputs are 265kW of power and 530Nm of torque, with electric range of 114km on the NEDC cycle and over 1000km of combined range. The S07 is larger, measuring 4724mm long, 1900mm wide and 1720mm tall on a 2720mm wheelbase. However, it sticks with a choice of turbo-petrol 1.5- or 1.6-litre engines. Interestingly, the former is offered with a six-speed manual as well, while the latter can be had with either a seven-speed dual-clutch or an eight-speed torque-converter auto. The S09 is the flagship, measuring 4858mm long, 1925mm wide and 1780mm tall on a 2850mm wheelbase. That makes it 43mm longer, 25mm wider and 80mm taller than a Kia Sorento on a 35mm longer wheelbase. It's offered with a choice of five- or seven-seat configurations, and either 1.6-litre or 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engines – the latter pumping out 187kW of power and 390Nm of torque. Mitsubishi sold off its share in Soueast back in 2021, but prior to this the Chinese joint venture brand produced vehicles like the Lancer, Galant/380, Delica, and Nimbus. During the 2010s, it also rolled out a range of vehicles that were styled by Pininfarina but which used Mitsubishi technology, though after several years of declining sales it was acquired by Chery. Content originally sourced from:
West Australian
12-05-2025
- Automotive
- West Australian
Mitsubishi's former Chinese joint venture eyes RHD markets, could include Australia
You may never have heard of Soueast, but the Chinese car company is expanding its global presence – and Australia could be in its sights. The brand was established in 1995 as a joint venture between China Motor Corporation, Fujian Motor Industry Group and Mitsubishi Motors, before it was acquired by Chery in 2024. The company that once built Mitsubishis could therefore be coming to compete with the Japanese brand in our market – including by offering a ute. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now . Since being acquired by Chery, it has focused on left-hand drive markets with petrol-powered SUVs and sedans, along with plug-in hybrids. This year, it'll add Mexico to its list of global markets. Across 2026 and 2027, it plans to expand into right-hand drive markets 'while achieving a balance between fuel, hybrid and electric models'. While it didn't specify Australia in its announcement, this market is already teeming with Chinese brands eager to demonstrate success in a competitive, well developed Western market like ours. From 2028 to 2030 it aims to '[complete] the industrialisation of new energy vehicles' and says it will prioritise pure EVs for Europe. 'We're not just entering markets — we're deeply embedding ourselves within them and earning a seat at the table,' said Dai Lihong, vice president of Chery and president of Soueast. The company says it operates six overseas R&D hubs across 'high-potential' markets, including the Middle East, ASEAN and Brazil. Work conducted in the Middle East has involved optimising heat resistance of vehicle components and the effectiveness of Soueast models' air-conditioning. Soueast also operates plants across the Middle East, Asia, Africa and South America that assemble vehicles from knocked-down kits. It says it intends to have two global models targeting the B-SUV segment, three 'premium' C-SUV models, and B- and C-segment sedans. In Chinese segmentation, B-segment vehicles are mid-sizers while C-segment vehicles are large. Soueast also says it intends to launch a ute by 2030, but hasn't offered any more details on the vehicle. The brand currently offers a range of SUVs – the S06, S07 and S09 – in markets like the UAE. The S06 measures 4616mm long, 1910mm wide and 1690mm tall on a 2720mm wheelbase, making it effectively the same size as a Toyota RAV4 . It offers a choice of turbocharged 1.5- and 1.6-litre petrol engines, mated with either six- or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmissions. Soueast's Super Hybrid plug-in hybrid (PHEV) technology – offered in the S06 – features a 150kW electric motor, a 19.4kWh battery, and a 1.5-litre engine. Total system outputs are 265kW of power and 530Nm of torque, with electric range of 114km on the NEDC cycle and over 1000km of combined range. The S07 is larger, measuring 4724mm long, 1900mm wide and 1720mm tall on a 2720mm wheelbase. However, it sticks with a choice of turbo-petrol 1.5- or 1.6-litre engines. Interestingly, the former is offered with a six-speed manual as well, while the latter can be had with either a seven-speed dual-clutch or an eight-speed torque-converter auto. The S09 is the flagship, measuring 4858mm long, 1925mm wide and 1780mm tall on a 2850mm wheelbase. That makes it 43mm longer, 25mm wider and 80mm taller than a Kia Sorento on a 35mm longer wheelbase. It's offered with a choice of five- or seven-seat configurations, and either 1.6-litre or 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engines – the latter pumping out 187kW of power and 390Nm of torque. Mitsubishi sold off its share in Soueast back in 2021, but prior to this the Chinese joint venture brand produced vehicles like the Lancer, Galant/380, Delica, and Nimbus. During the 2010s, it also rolled out a range of vehicles that were styled by Pininfarina but which used Mitsubishi technology, though after several years of declining sales it was acquired by Chery.
