A new player is preparing to enter the highly competitive Australian SUV market. Forthing, a brand under the umbrella of Chinese automotive giant Dongfeng, has been confirmed for a June 2026 launch in Australia.
The brand’s entry marks a significant expansion of Chinese automotive influence in the region, specifically targeting the high-volume mid-size SUV segment currently dominated by established players like the Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5.
Strategic Partnerships and Market Entry
The Australian rollout will be managed by the Ateco Group, a major distributor with an established local footprint that includes brands such as LDV, Renault, and Maserati. This partnership is a critical detail for industry observers; many new entrants struggle in Australia due to poor service networks, but Ateco plans to prioritize a national dealer rollout with showrooms in every capital city.
Forthing will also debut in New Zealand in April, signaling Dongfeng’s broader strategy to expand its presence in right-hand-drive markets.
The Flagship Model: Taikon 5
The brand’s lead offering will be the Taikon 5, a mid-size SUV designed to compete directly with the most popular vehicles in its class. To appeal to a modern, eco-conscious consumer base, Forthing is offering two distinct powertrain options:
1. Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (EREV/REEV)
This model uses a 1.5-litre petrol engine acting as a generator to power the electric motor, effectively eliminating “range anxiety.”
– Battery: 31.94kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP).
– Electric Range: Approximately 138km (WLTP cycle).
– Suspension: Features a multi-link rear setup for improved ride quality.
2. Battery Electric Vehicle (EV)
A fully electric option aimed at pure EV enthusiasts.
– Powertrain: 150kW single-motor, front-wheel drive.
– Battery: 64.4kWh LFP.
– Claimed Range: 530km (CLTC cycle).
– Suspension: Utilizes a torsion beam rear setup.
Competitive Landscape and Pricing Context
The Taikon 5 enters a crowded field. In terms of dimensions, it sits comfortably between the Toyota RAV4 and the next-generation Mazda CX-5. It also competes directly with recent Chinese arrivals like the Leapmotor C10.
While specific Australian pricing has not yet been released, we can look at the current market benchmarks to estimate its positioning:
– Leapmotor C10 EV: Starts from ~$45,888.
– Leapmotor C10 REEV: Starts from ~$43,888.
– Geely EX5: Starts from ~$41,990.
Why this matters: The success of Forthing will likely depend on whether it can undercut these established Chinese competitors on price while offering a more robust physical dealership network.
Summary
Forthing’s arrival in June 2026 represents a calculated move to capture the mid-size SUV market through diverse “new-energy” powertrains and a strong distribution partnership. If Ateco can successfully implement its national dealer network, Forthing could become a formidable challenger to traditional market leaders.
