It’s not long since the Beijing Auto Show ended with great pomp and show. Do you remember that new Wuling Hong Guang compact business vehicle presented by SAIC-GM-Wuling at the show? Whoa! What an automobile that was. Now, good news follows.

The same model is going to be launched in the Indian market. China’s Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation Group (SAIC) and General Motors Company recently set up a US$100 million joint venture in Hong Kong to focus on the Asian markets and that included India. It certainly looks like the joint venture plans to explore and launch an entry-level low-cost car for the Indian market.

The Hong Guang flaunts a well-designed exterior that’s truly compact. The relatively small engine changes traditional perceptions of compact business vehicles. It has been aimed at luring those looking for a business vehicle with exceptional fuel economy, terrific functionality and at an affordable price. If launched in India, we believe the new car may fetch around Rs. 7-9 Lakh and will be pitted against the likes of Mahindra Xylo and Toyota Innova.

The company, however, has remained tight-lipped about the matter. No news yet. But speculation also says that the Hong Guang will come with P-TEC 1.2-litre and 1.4-litre engine options. If speculation transforms into reality, the Hong Guang will be the first business vehicle with an engine displacement under 1.6 litres. The 1.2-liter engine was one of the 10 best engines of China in 2009. Both these eco-friendly engines are more fuel efficient than other engines with the same displacements.

The new car was chiefly created to meet the demands of small and intermediate ventures as well as private entrepreneurs. The Hong Guang’s Eastern aesthetics give it an eminent image that reflects Chinese personality and sensibilities. The rounded and streamlined exteriors and the U-shaped front face add to the vehicle’s solid personality. The arc-like grille connects with the same type of eagle-eye headlights found in international business vehicles. The shield-shaped taillights accentuate the Hong Guang’s destructive attitude.

Yet, the car puts on show a lot of grace with its side body lines flowing smoothly in a simple and acute manner. The dazzling six-inch aluminum alloy wheels add the missing streak of luxury while the carrier on the rear-sloping roof adds to the vehicle’s functionality.

Just like the exteriors, the Hong Guang’s interior has round interfaces and arcing lines; proof of Chinese design that also gives a spacious feeling. The handy and attractive central console is dual-toned with sedan-like instruments. Like other members of the Wuling family, the Hong Guang has a T-shaped interior layout.

Like any other business vehicle, the Hong Guang’s interiors with the 2+2+3 seating arrangement boast ample space. The wheelbase is longer than like-sized sedans. Flexibility personified; luggage and seating capacity can be increased or decreased based on need. The second and third rows of seats can fold flat or be removed entirely. Digital technology takes driving, comfort, power, fuel economy, safety and durability to a whole new level.

The chassis of the Hong Guang was adjusted and optimized by Lotus in the UK, which focused on comfort and safety. The suspension has a quake-absorbing function, making it quite comfortable even when driving on rough roads or under stormy weather conditions.