SWMG01F

Model Overview

The SWM G01F is a compact sporty SUV launched by SWM Motors (originally the Italian SWM motorcycle marque, acquired outright by Shineray Holdings in 2014 and repurposed as a Chinese independent passenger car brand), serving as a sportier derivative of the SWM G01 (introduced in August 2018). Built on SWM Motors' all-new G platform, the vehicle was styled under the direction of its design and R&D centre in Milan, Italy. The G01F made its public debut and official market launch at the Guangzhou International Automobile Exhibition on 16 November 2018, offering a 7-variant lineup paired with 1.5T-6MT and 6AT powertrains, priced between RM103,900 and RM147,900. In May 2019, SWM rolled out a facelifted G01F range, streamlining the lineup to 5 variants and lowering the price bracket to between RM95,900 and RM125,900. As of 2024, the G01FF variant on sale (such as the 2024 1.5T DCT Glory Edition) retails at RM129,800. Aimed squarely at younger buyers, the SUV champions a "factory-customised" aggressive exterior as its headline selling point, locking horns with mainstream C-segment SUVs like the Haval H6 and Geely Boyue.

Design Language

In terms of dimensions, the SWM G01F measures 4,670 mm long, 1,855 mm wide, and 1,740 mm tall, with a 2,750 mm wheelbase, positioning it on the larger end of the compact SUV class. Visually, the G01F’s biggest draw is its assertive, motorsport-inspired styling. Setting it apart from the standard G01, the G01F gets a blacked-out trapezoidal honeycomb front grille accented by "F"-motif sporty garnishes, paired with flared front and rear wheel arches, an aggressive front splitter, and muscular black bumper vents that complete a full aero kit, exuding an aftermarket widebody look straight from the factory. Buyers can choose from 4 monotone finishes—Red, White, Blue, and Grey—along with 3 dual-tone combinations: Red/Black, White/Black, and Blue/Black, making up 7 exterior colour schemes in total. Down the sides, it features a floating black roof design (on two-tone variants) highlighted by chrome waistline trim, while the rear sports arrow-signature LED taillights, a prominent roof spoiler, dual polished exhaust finishers, and an aggressive lower diffuser. Italian tricolour badges also feature on the front fenders to highlight the brand's Italian heritage.

Inside, the G01F adopts an asymmetrical dashboard layout trimmed generously with faux suede for a more premium tactile feel, complemented by vibrant yellow contrast accents across the seats, gear shifter, and interior trim to create a youthful, high-energy cabin atmosphere.

Powertrain and Performance

Powering the SWM G01F across the range is a DG15T 1.5-litre turbocharged inline-four petrol engine displacing 1,498 cc, featuring an aluminium cylinder head and a cast-iron cylinder block. It produces a maximum output of 115 kW (approx. 156 PS) and 220 Nm to 230 Nm of peak torque (tuning varies slightly by model year, with earlier variants producing 220 Nm and select revisions delivering 230 Nm). Gearbox options include a 6-speed manual and an Aisin-sourced 6-speed torque-converter automatic. The updated 2024 G01FF shifts to a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (DCT) with unchanged output figures, delivering an MIIT combined fuel consumption rating of 7.2 L to 7.8 L/100 km. The engine relies on multi-point fuel injection (MPI), runs on RON 92 petrol, and complies with China VI emission standards (China V on earlier iterations). Notably, no hybrid, mild-hybrid, or fully electric variants are offered, relying solely on pure internal combustion power. In terms of power delivery, low-end takeoff and urban driving are relatively subdued, requiring higher revs before the engine delivers meaningful mid-range punch.

Chassis and Handling

The SWM G01F utilises a front-engine, front-wheel-drive (FWD) configuration. Suspension-wise, earlier G01F units were fitted with front MacPherson struts and an independent rear multi-link setup. However, later 2024 G01FF models saw select variants revised to a rear torsion beam semi-independent setup; rear suspension hardware is no longer uniform across all variants, meaning buyers should refer to individual specification sheets. Steering is assisted by an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system, built on a monocoque chassis structure. Braking is handled by ventilated discs up front and solid discs at the rear, complete with an Electronic Parking Brake (EPB). Wheel and tyre configurations vary by variant, offering either 225/65 R17 (entry-level) or 225/60 R18 (higher-spec variants). Kerb weight is rated at around 1,560 kg. No all-wheel-drive (AWD) variant is available.

Cabin and Equipment

On the tech front, the SWM G01F dashboard features a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment display. The driver's instrument cluster blends a 4.2-inch digital multi-info display with traditional analogue gauges. Infotainment duties are run by SWM’s E-go operating system, supporting intelligent voice control (powered by iFLYTEK AI voice tech), remote telematics, smartphone mirroring (via CarLife), in-car Wi-Fi hotspot sharing, and an online app ecosystem. In terms of convenience, the G01F comes standard across the range with a powered tailgate, an operable panoramic sunroof, rear privacy glass, keyless entry with push-start button, as well as power-folding and heated wing mirrors. Rear parking sensors, a reverse camera, and Hill-Start Assist are also included. Upholstery on 2019 to 2024 models is finished in faux leather, with front seats offering tilt adjustments and 60:40 split-folding rear backrests to expand boot capacity when required. Multiple practical cubby spaces and cup holders are dotted throughout the interior for family convenience. Overall, the G01F upholds the generous equipment levels typical of Chinese brands, with standard inclusions such as the powered tailgate and panoramic sunroof giving it a competitive edge in its price segment.

Safety and Driver Assistance

In terms of safety kit, passive safety on the SWM G01F covers basic essentials with standard dual front airbags, though front side airbags and full-length curtain airbags are not equipped. ISOFIX child seat anchors, a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and all-seat seatbelt reminders come standard. Active safety systems across the range include Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control System (TCS), and Electronic Stability Programme (ESP). Higher-spec models add a 360-degree HD surround-view camera, Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), and Lane Departure Warning (LDW). Crucially, the G01F does not feature Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) in line with modern standards, remaining strictly at Level 0—omitting key features like Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Centring Assist (LCA), and Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB). Overall, while the active and passive safety suite meets mainstream entry-level SUV standards for routine driving, it shows a clear shortfall in advanced driver assistance tech.

Market Performance and Reception

Up to July 2020, cumulative sales of the SWM G01 series (encompassing both the standard G01 and G01F) reached 61,169 units, averaging roughly 2,660 units a month, with a historical monthly peak of 4,786 units achieved in November 2018. Post-2020, however, sales volume experienced a marked slowdown. As an offering from a second-tier Chinese marque in the competitive compact SUV market, the SWM G01F struggled against heavyweight domestic rivals such as the Haval H6, Changan CS75 PLUS, and Geely Boyue. Limited brand equity, low dealer network penetration, and weak residual values were the primary factors hindering broader commercial success. Among owners, the vehicle earned praise for its head-turning sporty styling, generous cabin room (particularly rear passenger space), and value-packed kit list; conversely, powertrain refinement, cabin trim fit-and-finish, and after-sales service network coverage remain frequent points for improvement. Representing SWM's bold sporty venture in the RM100,000 SUV market, the G01F successfully differentiated itself with its factory-tuned styling, yet overall sales failed to hit target expectations—ultimately becoming a case of critical praise over commercial sales, reflecting the uphill battle second-tier domestic brands face in crowded market segments.