SAIC MAXUS G70

Model Overview

The SAIC MAXUS G70 is a mid-size family MPV under the SAIC MAXUS stable. Officially launched at the Guangzhou Auto Show in November 2023, it is positioned between the G50 and G90. Built around the philosophy of a "five-star fully-equipped family MPV", the vehicle focuses on five core selling points: "aesthetic design, expansive space, robust performance, smart connectivity, and five-star safety", catering directly to multi-member family mobility needs. The 2025 model year represents the current core lineup on sale, offering three variants: Comfort Edition, Luxury Edition, and Flagship Edition, with official recommended retail prices ranging from RM149,800 to RM199,800. The entire range is powered by a 2.0T turbocharged engine paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission (9AT), available in both 6-seater and 7-seater layouts. Notably, the 6-seater version features a distinctive 2+1+3 seating arrangement that supports versatile scenario switching.

Design Language

The SAIC MAXUS G70 adopts the brand's latest family design language. The front fascia features a "Boundless Galaxy" trapezoidal radiator grille accented with diamond-pattern elements for a striking visual impact. Above it sits a full-width "Star Orbit" LED light bar spanning the front end, complemented by a split headlamp setup where the high and low beam units are integrated into the flanks of the grille. The MAXUS wordmark is prominently positioned on the bonnet, creating an avant-garde and instantly recognizable appearance.

Along the sides, the vehicle exhibits sleek character lines and flush pop-out door handles. Higher-spec variants come equipped with dual powered sliding doors (manual on the base trim, single-sided electric on the mid-spec). In terms of dimensions, the G70 measures 4,900 mm in length, 1,885 mm in width, and 1,756 mm in height (with certain versions standing at 1,768 mm), riding on a 2,960 mm wheelbase. Front and rear track widths are 1,615 mm and 1,630 mm respectively. At the rear, the "Starlight" full-width taillight cluster extends vertically on both ends into an H-shaped signature, ensuring high visibility when lit.

Inside, the G70 showcases a MOM wraparound cockpit layout. The dashboard is headlined by a continuous triple-screen setup comprising a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch central infotainment touchscreen, and a 12.3-inch front passenger entertainment display, delivering a sleek, high-definition aesthetic. Under the skin, the infotainment system is driven by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 automotive chip running the Zebra smart operating system, supporting full-scenario voice control (with 4-zone recognition and continuous voice commands), a 360-degree panoramic camera system, and a transparent chassis view. A wireless smartphone charging pad is integrated into the centre console armrest area.

Powertrain Performance

Under the bonnet, the SAIC MAXUS G70 is uniformly powered by an SAIC NF2 2.0-litre direct-injection turbocharged petrol engine mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission (9AT) driving the front wheels (FWD). The powerplant delivers a maximum output of 172 kW (234 PS) and a net output of 160 kW, with peak torque rated at 360 Nm across 1,500 to 4,000 rpm, while maximum power is achieved between 5,000 and 5,500 rpm. It completes the 0-100 km/h sprint in an official 8.8 seconds, with a top speed of 185 km/h. Under WLTC testing, combined fuel consumption stands at 8.5 L/100 km; coupled with a 65-litre fuel tank, the cruising range exceeds 750 km. Running on RON 92 petrol, it meets China 6 emission standards. Kerb weight ranges from 1,890 kg to 1,930 kg depending on the trim, with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 2,435 kg to 2,475 kg.

Chassis and Handling

The SAIC MAXUS G70 utilizes a monocoque chassis structure with a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout. Up front, it employs a MacPherson strut independent suspension, while the rear features a Quapact five-link multi-link independent setup. This suspension architecture effectively balances driving stability with ride comfort; the multi-link rear axle is particularly rare in this MPV class and substantially enhances ride refinement for rear occupants. Steering duties are handled by an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system that delivers a light, effortless feel. Braking is handled by front ventilated discs and rear disc brakes (solid discs on selected trims), complemented by an Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) with Auto Brake Hold. For tyre specifications, the Comfort Edition rides on 215/60 R17 tyres, while the Luxury and Flagship Editions are upgraded to 225/55 R18 rubbers. Acoustic dual-layer laminated glass for the front windows comes standard across the board, effectively keeping wind noise at bay.

Cabin and Features

The SAIC MAXUS G70's cabin prioritises modular space flexibility and occupant comfort. Thanks to its 2,960 mm wheelbase and 1,885 mm overall width, the MPV offers generous legroom and shoulder room. Buyers can choose between two seating configurations:

• 6-Seater Version: Employs a unique 2+1+3 arrangement. The second-row right seat features ultra-long sliding tracks spanning front to back, allowing seamless transitions between "1+2+3" and "2+1+3" setups to facilitate various usage modes, such as a "Queen's Lounge" or a mobile meeting room.

• 7-Seater Version: Adopts a conventional 2+2+3 MPV layout featuring individual captain chairs in the second row with fore-aft sliding and backrest recline adjustments.

At the rear, the third-row seats fold forward to create a completely flat boot floor. A multi-functional, foldable, and detachable boot parcel shelf further enhances cargo versatility.

On the tech front, all variants come standard with the triple 12.3-inch screen array, Snapdragon 8155 chipset, and Zebra OS, offering 4-zone voice control, continuous command execution, and OTA firmware updates. Multiple USB/Type-C ports and 12V power sockets are distributed throughout the cabin.

Comfort equipment is clearly tiered across the range:

Second-row seats also gain fold-out tray tables on the Luxury Edition and above, while climate control is handled by a tri-zone automatic system with dedicated rear air-conditioning vents.

Safety and Intelligent Driving

On the passive safety front, the SAIC MAXUS G70 features a high-strength safety cage construction, with high-strength steel comprising over 80% of the body structure. The cabin is protected by dual front airbags, front side airbags, and full-length side curtain airbags spanning 2.89 metres across both rows. ISOFIX child seat anchorages, a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and three-point seatbelts for all seats are standard across the lineup. The vehicle is backed by a 5-year or 100,000 km manufacturer warranty.

In terms of active safety, standard electronic driver aids across the range include Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA/BAS), Traction Control System (TCS/ASR), and Electronic Stability Programme (ESP/DSC). Auto Brake Hold, Hill-Start Assist (HSA), and standard cruise control are also included.

In terms of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), the G70's offerings remain rudimentary for its class. While rear parking sensors and a 360-degree panoramic camera with transparent chassis view are standard across the range, the vehicle lacks Level 2 (L2) semi-autonomous driving features such as full-speed Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), or Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), and omits millimetre-wave radar hardware. This has drawn criticism from prospective buyers who find the tech suite lagging behind class benchmarks at this price point.

Market Performance and Reception

Since its launch, the SAIC MAXUS G70 has experienced subdued market reception. Sales figures reveal that in March 2025, monthly sales stood at just 29 units, placing it sixth within the SAIC MAXUS portfolio behind the G50 (890 units) and G10 (328 units). By February 2026, monthly deliveries dipped to 4 units, with actual transaction prices hovering around RM155,800 in March 2026. Automotive community discussions reflect this slow uptake, noting that "nationwide monthly sales struggle to top 200 units", with dealership insiders reportedly even discouraging prospective buyers.

Feedback from owners highlights several key product strengths:

• Flexible & Innovative Packaging: The 6-seater 2+1+3 layout is a unique proposition in this segment, offering unmatched interior adaptability.

• Solid Powertrain: The 2.0T+9AT combo delivers punchy performance and creamy shifts, with an 8.8-second century sprint that easily satisfies family requirements.

• Generous Standard Kit: The triple-screen setup, 8155 chip, and dual powered sliding doors (on higher trims) offer strong value in the RM150,000 to RM200,000 bracket.

• Refined Ride Quality: The multi-link rear suspension delivers superior ride compliance and bump absorption compared to torsion-beam rivals.

Conversely, notable weaknesses include:

• Lack of ADAS / L2 Driver Aids: The absence of L2 driving assistance across all variants puts it at a disadvantage against rivals like the GAC Trumpchi M8 and Roewe iMAX8.

• Weak Brand Equity: The MAXUS badge relies heavily on the budget G50 for sales volume, struggling to command brand premium in the RM150,000–RM200,000 bracket.

• Pricing Dilemma: Its list price clashes with discounted examples of the Roewe iMAX8 and Hyundai Custo, both of which boast stronger brand cachet and richer kit.

• No Hybrid Powertrain Option: Amid surging demand for PHEV MPVs, the G70 remains exclusively petrol-powered, missing out on the electrified vehicle trend.

• Customer Complaints: Isolated owner complaints point to pre-delivery dealer non-disclosure of faults (such as turn indicator malfunctions), recurring issues post-delivery, and lacklustre after-sales response.

Key competitors include mid-size MPVs such as the GAC Trumpchi M8 (from RM179,800), Roewe iMAX8 (from RM185,800), and Hyundai Custo (from RM169,800). The G70's primary differentiators are its innovative 6-seater 2+1+3 arrangement, multi-link rear suspension, and triple-screen smart cabin, though it falls short in brand prestige, active driving aids, and powertrain diversity.

Conclusion

Occupying the RM150,000 to RM200,000 mid-size family MPV segment, the SAIC MAXUS G70 demonstrates commendable product substance in packaging versatility, powertrain punch, and chassis sophistication, with its distinctive 6-seater 2+1+3 configuration serving as a key unique selling proposition. However, the complete omission of Level 2 driver assistance, the lack of hybrid powertrain choices, and limited brand pull have hobbled its commercial success in an increasingly competitive MPV arena. For family buyers who prioritise ride refinement and seating modularity over cutting-edge driver aids, the G70 remains an intriguing option. Prospective buyers are advised to aim for the Luxury Edition or above to secure essential creature comforts like dual powered sliding doors and ventilated seats, while taking care to inspect vehicle condition and vet dealer service reputation thoroughly prior to purchase.