drives well
The two-liter turbo engine here is tuned to deliver under 200 horsepower, a change attributed to a midstream tweak. Suspension updates have altered springs and shocks to tighten the chassis and improve control. A trace of build-up remains, but it does not reach the level seen in the Chinese variant. The suspension is energy-intensive yet firm over sharp joints and speed bumps. Overall, the setup suits the rougher roads found in Russia, providing stable handling without sacrificing comfort on daily commutes.
The motor and the dual-clutch automatic work in harmony. The clutchpack shifts smoothly and rarely hesitates, at least in typical driving conditions; the powertrain does not trap the driver in gear. Overtaking remains confident, and while it may not feel explosive, the car never feels slow in most real-world scenarios.
Salon – spacious
Two passengers in the second row enjoy limousine-like space in every direction. The interior feels both beautiful and practical, crafted with materials that read as high quality. And there’s a practical note: unlike many competitors, the seat cushion is contoured rather than flat, providing comfort for long rides. With a panoramic roof overhead, there’s ample air and a sense of openness that enhances the cabin experience.
The USB ports are neatly integrated into the lower tier of the center console, angled toward the driver and the front passenger. It’s a clever design that keeps charging cables out of the way while remaining convenient to reach. The setup avoids a cramped, hidden look and makes it easy to plug in devices without stretching for adapters.
Trunk – small
The stated cargo volume is 333 liters, which tests with real-world use often yield even less. Families traveling with gear may need to place a box on the roof from time to time. Still, the trunk offers useful amenities: a 220-volt outlet, securing hooks, and a full-size spare wheel for peace of mind on longer trips.
If the contactless trunk opening fails due to a foot movement under the bumper, a simple kick in the middle of the bumper’s silver trim triggers the sensor. It’s a small convenience that reduces effort and makes loading easier in everyday use.
cool chips
Transparent hood
Off-road testing showcased a feature once reserved for SUVs, the transparent hood. The Dargo’s cameras provide excellent image quality, and the off-road assistant proves practical by delivering a clear view of the terrain with fine details, helping the driver navigate uneven ground with confidence.
children’s pens
The center pillars include built-in handles at the top to aid entry and exit. The car sits high, which can be a challenge for younger passengers. To help, lower steps and strategic footholds are provided, allowing children to climb aboard without extra assistance from an adult.
Quality Stimulator
A comfort feature appears in the top trim, where a seat-based massager activates multiple air chambers to massage the lumbar region. It uses eight pneumatic chambers and five programs to improve circulation, providing noticeably more relief than many peers in this class. The system is complemented by a lumbar roller that adds targeted support during longer drives.
Every door includes cupholders with stretch straps capable of holding a 1.5-liter bottle. The cupholder orientation is angled for easy reach while seated, making it simple to grab a drink without twisting the wrist awkwardly.
The Legacy of Jolyon
The Dargo shares its roots with Jolion on the LEMON platform, extending more than just hardware. The two vehicles share design philosophies and smaller details that influence everyday usability. One example is the inability to switch on the dome lights for the driver and front passenger separately, which remains a minor ergonomic quirk.
Compared to Jolion, the Dargo offers adjustable steering reach, a welcome refinement. Its windshield heating behavior has been updated, operating in park only when antifreeze temperatures fall below a defined threshold, a change addressed in the Jolion family. The Dargo also ships with updated software to improve overall responsiveness.
The desire to test the four-wheel-drive Dargo in winter remains strong, as Jolion’s past handling tended to become unstable at higher speeds on slippery surfaces. The Dargo promises improved traction and predictability in cold conditions.
- “Behind the wheel” can also be read on VKontakte.