Dongfeng Mage Compact SUV Launches in Israel at 150,000 Shekels

Dongfeng, the Chinese state-owned automaker, is expanding its model lineup in Israel through its local importer, Delek Motors. Following smaller electric models and premium offerings from its sub-brands Voyah and M-Hero, Dongfeng has introduced the Mage, a compact plug-in hybrid SUV priced at 150,000 shekels. This price is notably lower than competitors in the hybrid and gasoline-powered compact SUV segment. The Mage features a single trim level with a well-equipped package, aiming to attract buyers looking for a spacious yet affordable hybrid SUV.

The Mage sports a coupe-style design and measures 4.68 meters in length, 1.90 meters in width, and 1.61 meters in height, with a 2.77-meter wheelbase and a 525-liter trunk. These dimensions are comparable to larger segment vehicles like the Mazda CX-5, which is only slightly bigger and offers a higher towing capacity. Dongfeng plans to expand its lineup further with the Huge model arriving early next year and updates to the smaller Box model, including three-phase charging and plug-in hybrid options.

Under the hood, the Mage combines a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine producing 111 horsepower with a 188-horsepower electric motor, delivering a combined output of 299 horsepower. Power is sent to the front wheels via a smart transmission that blends a four-speed gearbox with a continuously variable transmission for smooth acceleration. The vehicle accelerates to 100 km/h in 10.6 seconds, reaches a top speed of 176 km/h, and offers a combined fuel efficiency of 45.4 km per liter on hybrid mode, dropping to 18.8 km per liter when the battery is depleted. The 17 kWh battery provides an electric-only range of 81 km, with home charging at 3.3 kW and fast charging at 22 kW, taking 30 minutes to charge from 30% to 80%.

The single trim level includes a 10.25-inch instrument cluster, a 14.6-inch multimedia touchscreen, synthetic leather seats in multiple color options, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, panoramic sunroof, 19-inch wheels, and advanced driver assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control and lane keeping. However, the Mage received a low safety rating of 2 out of 8 from the Israeli Ministry of Transportation due to the absence of blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, door opening warnings, intersection braking, and child presence alerts. The vehicle has not yet undergone European crash testing. Warranty coverage includes six years or 210,000 km for the vehicle and eight years or 210,000 km for the battery, with annual or 15,000 km maintenance intervals.

Dongfeng aims to showcase nine new models by the end of 2027 in Israel, signaling a significant expansion in the local market. The Mage’s competitive pricing and hybrid technology could influence the compact SUV segment, with a full market assessment expected by year-end.