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 vehicles 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 point is notably lower than competitors in the hybrid and gasoline compact SUV segment. The Mage features a single trim level with a well-equipped package and aims to compete in one of the most important vehicle categories in Israel.

The Mage sports a coupe-style design with dimensions larger than typical compact SUVs, measuring 4.68 meters long, 1.90 meters wide, and 1.61 meters tall, with a 2.77-meter wheelbase and a 525-liter trunk. For comparison, the Mazda CX-5, a larger model in the segment, is only slightly bigger and offers a higher towing capacity, which the Mage lacks. Dongfeng plans to add more models next year, including the Huge, a five-seater SUV, and updates to the smaller Box model with three-phase charging and plug-in hybrid options.

The Mage’s powertrain combines a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine producing 111 horsepower with a 188-horsepower electric motor, delivering a combined output of 299 horsepower to the front wheels through a smart transmission system. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.6 seconds, with a top speed of 176 km/h. The 17 kWh battery offers an electric-only range of 81 km, with a combined fuel efficiency of 45.4 km per liter when using both power sources. Charging options include a 3.3 kW single-phase home charger and a 22 kW fast charger that can charge from 30% to 80% in 30 minutes.

The single trim level includes a 10.25-inch instrument cluster, a 14.6-inch multimedia screen, synthetic leather seats in multiple color options, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, panoramic sunroof, 19-inch wheels, and advanced driver assistance features like adaptive cruise control and lane keeping. However, some privacy-related features such as OTA updates and remote control apps are disabled to meet institutional customer requirements. The vehicle comes with a six-year or 210,000 km warranty and an eight-year warranty on the battery.

Safety ratings are a concern, with the Israeli Ministry of Transportation assigning the Mage a low score of 2 out of 8 due to the absence of blind spot warnings, rear cross-traffic alerts, door opening warnings, intersection collision warnings, and child presence alerts. The vehicle has not yet undergone European crash testing. Dongfeng plans to showcase nine new models by the end of 2027 in Israel, signaling a significant expansion of its presence in the local market.