Chinese automaker Deepal has officially launched the all-wheel-drive variant of

Chinese automaker Deepal has officially launched the all-wheel-drive variant of its G318 Wilderness Edition, maintaining an aggressive pricing strategy that positions it directly against its two-wheel-drive counterpart. The AWD model carries a sticker price of ¥185,900 (approximately $25,641 USD, based on China market pricing), identical to the 2WD version—a bold move that essentially offers customers four-wheel-drive capability at no additional cost.

The new AWD configuration represents more than just an added drivetrain option; it signals Deepal’s commitment to delivering capable off-road vehicles at competitive price points in China’s increasingly crowded extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) segment. While the AWD version shares most design elements with its 2WD sibling, the company has made strategic adjustments to both features and specifications to differentiate the model while maintaining cost parity. For those interested in tracking the latest developments in China’s electric vehicle market and intelligent automotive technologies, visit AI Tools & API Access for the latest EV insights and analysis.

Key Features & Specs

The Deepal G318 AWD Wilderness Edition maintains the exterior design language of the two-wheel-drive variant, though buyers are limited to a single Canyon Black color option. The vehicle’s substantial dimensions remain unchanged, measuring 5,125mm in length, 2,025mm in width, and 1,895mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,880mm. These proportions place it firmly in the mid-to-large SUV category, offering ample interior space for both passengers and cargo. The model rides on 255/65 R18 wheels and features upgraded rear ventilated brake discs to handle the increased performance demands of the dual-motor setup.

Under the hood—or rather, throughout the drivetrain—the G318 AWD continues to utilize Deepal’s 1.5-liter turbocharged range-extending system. The combustion engine delivers a maximum output of 110kW, serving primarily as a generator to charge the battery. The real performance story lies in the electric motors: a 131kW unit powers the front axle, while a more powerful 185kW motor drives the rear wheels, creating a combined electric output that propels the vehicle from 0-100km/h in just 5.9 seconds—impressive acceleration for a vehicle of this size and purpose. The 35.07kWh battery pack provides 186 kilometers of pure electric range under CLTC testing standards, allowing for emissions-free daily commuting before the range extender kicks in.

The off-road credentials receive particular attention in the AWD specification. Deepal claims a maximum climbing gradient of 63%, supported by specialized features including a crawl mode for low-speed rock crawling and a tank turn function that enables the vehicle to pivot in place—useful capabilities for tight trail navigation. Interior adjustments reflect a pragmatic approach: the company removed heated steering wheel and seat memory functions to offset costs, while adding a water depth sensing system, a practical feature for genuine off-road adventurers who might encounter river crossings or deep puddles.

Market Position & Competition

The Deepal G318’s pricing strategy represents a fascinating case study in China’s hypercompetitive new energy vehicle market. By pricing the AWD variant identically to the 2WD model at ¥185,900, Deepal essentially eliminates one of the traditional decision points for SUV buyers. This approach suggests the company is prioritizing market share and brand awareness over per-unit margins, betting that volume sales will compensate for reduced profit margins on the more expensive-to-produce AWD variant.

This vehicle enters a segment increasingly crowded with capable extended-range electric SUVs from both established automakers and emerging brands. Competitors like the Li Auto L series, NIO’s SUV lineup, and traditional manufacturers’ electrified offerings all vie for attention from Chinese consumers seeking vehicles that combine electric driving for daily use with the range confidence provided by an onboard generator. The G318’s focus on off-road capability distinguishes it somewhat from more urban-focused competitors, potentially carving out a niche among adventure-oriented buyers who want electric efficiency without range anxiety on remote trails.

The sub-¥200,000 price point positions the G318 AWD as an accessible entry into the premium EREV market. While it undercuts more established luxury brands significantly, it competes directly with other Chinese brands pursuing similar strategies. The vehicle’s combination of reasonable electric-only range, strong performance figures, and legitimate off-road hardware creates a value proposition that traditional internal combustion competitors in this price bracket struggle to match, particularly as Chinese consumers increasingly embrace electrification.

Should You Buy One?

The Deepal G318 AWD Wilderness Edition presents a compelling package for specific buyer profiles. Adventure enthusiasts who genuinely intend to use their vehicle off-road will appreciate the dual-motor setup, impressive climbing capability, and features like tank turn and crawl mode. The 186km electric range handles typical daily driving scenarios without engaging the range extender, while the 1.5T generator eliminates range anxiety on weekend excursions to remote locations where charging infrastructure remains sparse.

However, potential buyers should carefully consider the trade-offs. The removal of convenience features like heated steering wheel and seat memory represents a step backward in comfort compared to the 2WD variant, and the single color option limits personalization. The Canyon Black exterior, while practical for concealing trail dirt, may not appeal to all tastes. Additionally, while the 5.9-second 0-100km/h time impresses on paper, the vehicle’s nearly two-ton curb weight means it’s not exactly a sports car in handling characteristics—though that’s hardly the point for an off-road-focused SUV. Those monitoring emerging automotive technologies and market trends should explore resources like AI Tools & API Access to understand how vehicles like the G318 fit into broader industry shifts toward electrification and intelligent features.

For urban buyers who rarely venture off pavement, the 2WD variant might actually make more sense despite the identical pricing, as it retains those comfort features better suited to daily driving. The AWD system’s benefits only truly manifest when traction demands exceed what a single-axle setup can deliver. Conversely, serious off-road enthusiasts might find the G318’s capabilities sufficient for most scenarios while appreciating the electric drivetrain’s low-end torque advantages over traditional combustion engines in technical terrain.

Verdict

Deepal’s decision to price the G318 AWD Wilderness Edition identically to its 2WD counterpart represents bold positioning in China’s crowded EREV market. The strategy effectively removes price as a differentiating factor between drivetrain options, forcing buyers to choose based purely on their genuine four-wheel-drive needs and feature preferences. For the right buyer—someone who values off-road capability and doesn’t prioritize heated steering wheels or seat memory—the AWD variant delivers exceptional value at ¥185,900.

The broader significance extends beyond this single model. As Chinese EV manufacturers continue pushing boundaries in pricing, features, and performance, established automakers face increasing pressure to respond. The G318 AWD exemplifies how extended-range electric vehicles can address range anxiety while delivering the benefits of electric propulsion, potentially representing a transitional technology as charging infrastructure continues expanding. Whether Deepal can maintain profitability at these price points remains to be seen, but for consumers, the aggressive pricing creates genuine value in a segment that traditionally demanded significant premiums for AWD capability.