A distributor operating in Russia under the Chinese car brand umbrella, Dongfen Motorinvest, has announced plans to broaden the local lineup with a more powerful version of the DFSK ix5 crossover. This development is being reported as part of routine industry updates and signals a strategic push to attract buyers who want stronger performance without compromising the practical benefits of a stylish, coupe-inspired body style. The company has positioned the ix5 as a model that sits between compact crossover utility and sportier, more dynamic design cues, aiming to capture a segment of customers who value both everyday usability and a touch of sporty flair in their daily drive.
According to the latest briefing, the enhanced ix5 will be equipped with a 2.0-liter engine paired with an automatic transmission. This marks a notable upgrade from the current version, which is powered by a 1.5-liter engine and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The jump to the larger displacement promises improved acceleration and highway performance, broadening the ix5’s appeal to buyers who want more confident overtaking ability and smoother power delivery on longer trips. In addition to the power boost, the ix5 will come with a heated steering wheel and heated seats across all seating rows, elevating comfort in colder climates and making it a more appealing choice for year-round use. This upgrade aligns with industry trends where manufacturers increasingly blend performance upgrades with comfort-focused features to deliver a well-rounded driving experience.
Market timing for this refresh points toward the summer season, with insiders suggesting that the ix5 may be rolled into the broader ix7 crossover line as a related model offering. The strategy appears to be about providing a family of crossovers that share DNA while offering distinct personas: one focusing on a sportier, coupe-like silhouette and the other emphasizing spacious practicality and advanced technology. In terms of technology, both the ix5 and associated variants are expected to feature multimedia systems that support Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ensuring seamless smartphone integration and access to navigation, messaging, music, and app ecosystems. This emphasis on connectivity reflects a broader shift in the industry toward integrated, user-friendly infotainment experiences that complement modern active lifestyles.
Pricing for the refreshed ix5 has been clarified by Motorinvest, with figures indicating a starting point around 2.99 million rubles for the coupe-inspired variant. The seven-seat ix7 is positioned from approximately 3.99 million rubles, signaling a strategic tiered approach that helps buyers choose the right balance of space, power, and features. In addition to the new engine lineup, the ix5 is slated to be offered in Premium and Luxury trim levels, giving customers options that cater to different preferences for equipment and interior ambiance. Earlier specifications described the current ix5 as equipped with a 1.5-liter gasoline engine producing about 137 horsepower, while the upgraded 2.0-liter engine delivers a substantial boost with around 231 horsepower. The model also includes features such as all-around cameras and a panoramic sunroof, enhancing visibility and the sense of openness inside the cabin. These elements collectively position the ix5 as a compelling choice for families and urban drivers who want a vehicle with enough daily practicality for commuting and weekend getaways while also delivering a more engaging drive when the road opens up.
The ix7, likewise, is equipped with a 2.0-liter gasoline engine delivering 231 horsepower and a front-to-rear all-wheel-drive system that incorporates a simulated differential lock for improved traction in varied road conditions. Inside, the ix7 offers a refined climate control setup with dual-zone controls, interior lighting with multiple color options, and a nine-speaker audio system designed to deliver a balanced, immersive listening experience for all passengers. This combination of performance, comfort, and technology underlines DFSK’s intent to provide a cohesive crossover family that appeals to buyers seeking both utility and a touch of premium appeal in their daily transportation. The approach reflects market realities where consumers in this segment expect robust power, sophisticated safety and driver-assist features, and an interior that remains comfortable and quiet on longer drives.
Overall, the refreshed DFSK ix5 and the companion ix7 fit into a broader landscape of popular foreign-branded models that continue to attract attention in Russia’s auto market, where buyers often weigh price, power, feature sets, and overall value. The latest announcements from Motorinvest emphasize a disciplined upgrade path: more power, enhanced comfort, modern connectivity, and a clear tiered pricing strategy that makes the new lineup accessible to a wide range of customers while preserving the distinctive styling and practical versatility that define these DFSK crossovers. As this refreshed generation arrives, potential buyers can look for a balance of performance and practicality, with the assurance of modern connectivity and safety features that align with current expectations for mid-size crossovers in today’s market.