Next Gen Off-Roaders: 5 newest cars from China
Jetour T5
Meet the T5 hybrid prototype — built from the ground up and ready to conquer the wild. Though the interior’s still under wraps, its rugged, accessory-packed exterior hints at the adventure ahead. The T5 will be the first to feature China’s cutting-edge Super Hybrid Off-Road Platform.
Under the hood, it’s got a turbo engine and twin electric motors powering all four wheels, with flexibility for future upgrades, like in-wheel motors and serious horsepower boosts. Think deep water fording, adjustable clearance, and unstoppable off-road potential. The T5 is set to debut in 2025. We can't wait to see it in action!
BAIC BJ40
The new BAIC BJ40 draws inspiration from the iconic Land Rover Defender with its clean lines, classic silhouette, and high-tech interior. Yet, beneath the surface, it remains a rugged, old-school off-roader.
While slightly larger now, the BJ40 keeps its hardcore build — a sturdy frame with independent front suspension, a solid rear axle, and part-time 4WD with a low-range gear. Both axles come with lockable differentials. Under the hood, it sports a 2.0L turbo engine with 245 horsepower, paired with a classic 8-speed ZF automatic.
Gone is the flashy removable roof, but the split rear door with a swing-open lower section stays. In person, the BJ40 feels modern yet balanced, without over-the-top styling. And with its tech-filled cabin, loaded with screens and amenities, it's ready for long expeditions. Just add some rugged tires, and this SUV is adventure-ready!
Dongfeng E-truck
The simply named e-Truck concept is packed with cutting-edge innovations from Dongfeng. One of the highlights? A fully electric off-road platform with an 800-volt system, rear-wheel steering, and four motors delivering a combined 1,304 horsepower. Surprisingly, it’s not just about speed—this setup allows for ultra-precise traction control (with torque managed at each wheel individually) and remarkable agility, even enabling a "tank turn" on the spot.
Dongfeng’s focus is on efficient energy use, which extends the truck’s range. Though they haven’t specified the range, it does feature an onboard heat pump and fold-out solar panels on the roof.
The interior remains mostly under wraps, but it promises excitement: a high-res curved display spanning door to door and seats that convert into sleeping spaces. You can even rest outdoors in the truck bed, which comes with a canopy option and a mattress. Additional features include storage for portable chairs and a drone, plus a satellite phone for remote communication.
Dongfeng E hunter
Dongfeng has already brought impressive hybrid and electric tech to its off-roaders. But a traditional five-door SUV wasn’t enough, Dongfeng took the same four-motor battery platform and created the M-Hunter, an extreme open buggy on massive wheels.
Inspired by rally prototypes, the M-Hunter features a two-seat cabin, a tubular frame instead of a standard chassis, and loads of carbon fiber. It’s equipped with off-road essentials like a winch and twin spare tires in the back. Sleek tubular gates replace doors, and the seats are like racing “buckets.” The best part? Almost everything—except the yoke-style steering wheel—feels production-ready, not just for show.
While Dongfeng hasn’t revealed full specs, there’s buzz that a limited run of these extreme buggies might be available for collectors and select clients.
Smart Concept #5
Classic mini Smart cars have always been city-centric, but that hasn’t stopped some Russian owners from transforming these tiny cars into quirky expedition and mini-off-road vehicles. Since Geely took over much of the brand’s development, though, Smart’s “ultracompact” concept has evolved. Enter Concept #5—the biggest and most rugged Smart in history.
With a matte gray finish, rugged off-road look, and features like branch deflectors, chunky tires, a roof rack, and an LED light bar, it’s built to tackle the wild. Inside, there’s no middle pillar, three sleek dashboard screens, and even a projector for movies under the stars.
Smart is tight-lipped with full specs, but here’s a taste: dual electric motors, 800-volt system, and a 100 kWh battery with up to 550 km of range. The full reveal is set for late 2024—stay tuned!