AUTOS CARS CUSTOM

The striking CS95 concept previews plans by Chongqing-based car maker Chang’an for a flamboyantly styled range-topping model to challenge established luxury SUV offerings.

Measuring 5380mm in length, 2120mm in width and 1770mm in height, the big five-seater has been conceived to rival established sporting off-roaders such as the BMW X6, Porsche Cayenne and Range Rover Sport. It is based on a new platform structure developed by Chang’an boasting a wheelbase of 3330mm.

Power for the CS95 comes from a newly developed hybrid gasoline-electric driveline. It uses a 246bhp 3.5-litre V6 and 167bhp electric motor, with drive channelled through an eight- speed automatic gearbox.

The hybrid system appears to be merely for show, although Chang’an, which operates joint ventures with Ford, Mazda, Peugeot and Citroën, does harbour concrete plans to place the new V6 petrol engine into production for use in the production version of the CS95 and other models, including the smaller CS35, according to Chang’an officials.

Thanks to: Autocar