Compared to the hustle and bustle of previous years, the upcoming 2024 Chengdu Auto Show appears relatively quiet. Apart from the scarcity of media presence, the enthusiasm of automakers towards auto shows seems to be rapidly fading. Especially in the context of intense competition, when people recall the Beijing Auto Show a few months ago, the most impressive memory is likely the overwhelming traffic generated by individuals like Lei Jun and Zhou Hongyi, but who can actually enumerate all the genuinely new products?

Nonetheless, as one of China's four major A-class automotive exhibitions, the Chengdu Auto Show remains at the forefront in terms of influence and importance. Official data shows that this year's Chengdu Auto Show covers an area of 200,000 square meters, attracting 129 brands and showcasing a total of 1,600 vehicle models.

With the imminent opening of the auto show, let's take a look at the key models that are "must-visits" in each of the 12 exhibition halls from the already announced floor plans.

Hall 1: A Hub of Popularity and Traffic

If we had to pick the most popular exhibition hall at this year's Chengdu Auto Show, Hall 1 would undoubtedly rank at the top. It gathers seven brands, including Xiaomi, Nezha, Great Wall Motors (Haval, WEY, Ora, Tank, Great Wall Pickup), Beijing Automotive Group, GAC Honda, GAC Toyota, and CATL.

Compared to established automakers like Great Wall Motors, GAC Toyota, GAC Honda, and Beijing Automotive Group, Xiaomi and Nezha have Lei Jun and Zhou Hongyi standing behind them, respectively. Among them, besides Xiaomi's ever-popular SU7, the recently launched Nezha S Shooting Brake version is also bound to attract significant attention.

On August 25, the Nezha S officially launched. The new vehicle offers both pure electric and extended-range versions, priced between 159,900 and 209,900 yuan. In terms of design, the Nezha S Shooting Brake is based on the standard Nezha S but with optimized and innovative details.

Specifically, the pure electric version of the Nezha S Shooting Brake is equipped with a 200kW drive motor and a new LFP battery from CATL. Based on CLTC testing, it offers two range options: 510km and 640km. The extended-range version, meanwhile, features the Haozhi 2.0 super-extended-range system, consisting of a 1.5L range extender and a 200kW motor. Paired with a 43.88kWh battery pack, it achieves a CLTC pure electric range of up to 300km and a combined range of up to 1,200km.

Hall 2: SAIC Motor and ARCFOX Highlighted

Hall 2 of this year's Chengdu Auto Show gathers five SAIC Motor brands, including SAIC Volkswagen, Buick, Chevrolet, Roewe, and MG, as well as two independent new energy brands, Geely Galaxy and ARCFOX.

In terms of gasoline vehicles, SAIC Volkswagen's Passat PRO will make its debut at the auto show. Earlier, live images of the Passat PRO have been leaked. The new car will offer two front-end design styles, with dimensions of 5006mm x 1850mm x 1489mm and a wheelbase of 2871mm, which is 58mm longer than the current Passat but maintains the same wheelbase.

Furthermore, the Passat PRO plans to introduce an EXECUTIVE model in the future, potentially featuring a 4-seat luxury layout. Power-wise, depending on configuration, the Passat PRO will offer 1.5T and 2.0T engines.

In terms of new energy vehicles in Hall 2, ARCFOX's latest SUV, the ARCFOX S05, will also make its debut. Positioned as a compact SUV, the ARCFOX S05 adopts a new design language, creating a futuristic appearance. Dimensionally, it measures 4620mm x 1900mm x 1600mm, with a wheelbase of 2880mm, providing ample interior space.

Power-wise, the ARCFOX S05 offers both pure electric and extended-range versions. The pure electric model is equipped with a 175kW motor, delivering robust performance, while the extended-range version features a 1.5L range extender with a maximum power of 72kW and a XTDM38 drive motor with a peak power of 160kW, ensuring excellent performance and range.

Hall 3: Hongqi Introduces New PHEV Models

Hall 3 features eight brands. Among them, Hongqi will officially launch two PHEV SUV models.

As a compact PHEV SUV, the Hongqi HS3 PHEV employs a 1.5T PHEV powertrain, with a gasoline engine delivering a maximum power of 124kW. Paired with a CATL battery, it offers a pure electric range of 115km and a combined range of 1,100km. Its unique design concept, spacious interior, and abundant features make it highly competitive in the market.

As another heavyweight model from Hongqi, the HS7 PHEV will also make an appearance at the auto show. This mid-to-large SUV is equipped with a 2.0T PHEV system, offering a combined range of up to 1,102km and a pure electric range of 100km. Its classic and elegant exterior, luxurious interior, and powerful performance are sure to attract numerous consumers.

Hall 4: HarmonyOS Intelligent Driving "Launches Across Three Realms"

On August 26, HarmonyOS Intelligent Driving held a new product launch event on the eve of the Chengdu Auto Show, unveiling the new AITO M7 Pro. At the same time, the brand's first pure electric coupe SUV, the AITO R7, made its debut. At this year's Chengdu Auto Show, the AITO R7 will officially meet the public and is expected to garner significant attention.

As the second model from the AITO brand, a collaboration between Huawei and Chery, and the first coupe SUV powered by HarmonyOS Intelligent Driving, the AITO R7 is defined as the "Challenger of the Pure Electric World." Its design adheres to Huawei's principles of "Extreme, Simplicity, and Purity," measuring 4956mm x 1981mm x 1634mm with a wheelbase of 2950mm.

Moreover, the AITO R7 is equipped with Huawei's "Whale" 800V high-voltage battery platform, CDC continuously variable damping shock absorbers, and air suspension, among other premium features. With a maximum range of 802km, it enters the "Dual 800" era. Additionally, the HUAWEI ADS 3.0 advanced intelligent driving system, built on the Tuling platform, will provide an even more exceptional driving experience.

Apart from HarmonyOS Intelligent Driving, Hall 4 also features noteworthy new products from Beijing Hyundai and Mercedes-Benz. For instance, Beijing Hyundai's all-new Santa Fe will officially launch at the auto show, while the Beijing-Benz GLC PHEV will also make an appearance in Chengdu.

Hall 5: Chery Group Holds Up "Half the Sky"

Hall 5 of this year's Chengdu Auto Show hosts eight brands. Compared to joint venture brands like Toyota, Changan Mazda, and Dongfeng Peugeot Citroën, the highlights of Hall 5 primarily center around the splendid showcase of the Chery Group and its sub-brands. Among them, the all-new model from Chery's Fengyun series, the Fengyun T11, will make its debut.

Positioned as a large SUV, the Fengyun T11 measures 5150mm in length, 1995mm in width, 1800mm in height, and boasts an impressive wheelbase of 3100mm. Power-wise, it employs a dual-motor four-wheel-drive system, achieving a 0-100km/h acceleration time of approximately 5 seconds, a pure electric range exceeding 200km, and a combined range of up to 1,400km, catering to users' needs for long-distance travel.

Design-wise, the Fengyun T11's front face adopts a frameless design reminiscent of the Land Rover Range Rover series, exuding a formidable presence. The interior boasts a simplistic yet luxurious design, featuring a 30-inch central touchscreen, dual panoramic sunroofs, a 23-speaker audio system, and other premium amenities. The vehicle also sports a 2+2+2 seating layout, with the second-row seats offering electric fore-and-aft adjustment, leg support, heating, ventilation, and massage functions, further enhancing ride comfort.

Hall 6: Jiangling Motors and Ford Are the Main Attractions

Hall 6 of this year's Chengdu Auto Show gathers joint venture brands such as FAW-Volkswagen, Jetta, Ford, and Dongfeng Honda. The main attractions are expected to be Jiangling Motors and Ford's booths.

Regarding Jiangling Motors, the JMC Avenue Mountain Edition, a heavyweight new pickup, will make its debut in Hall 6. Customized for rugged mountain roads, it is equipped with high-performance features like a high-capacity chassis, sturdy steel bumpers, side steps, underbody protection, and 265AT tires to better tackle mountainous terrain.

As for Ford, its lineup includes star products like the Ford Bronco, Ford Mustang, Ford Mondeo, and more. Additionally, the new Explorer will make its debut at the auto show. As an annual model update, the new Explorer features minor adjustments to its exterior, interior, features, and powertrain, with plans to officially launch in the fourth quarter of this year.

Hall 9: BYD Takes Over the Center Stage

Unlike other brands scattered across various halls, BYD has taken over Hall 9, the central hall, at this year's Chengdu Auto Show. Its Dynasty, Ocean, Denza, NIO, and Fangchengbao brands all showcase their flagship models. Among them, the global debut of BYD's all-new Dynasty MPV is undoubtedly the most noteworthy new product.

Firstly, in terms of naming, this new MPV will adopt a brand-new dynasty name, becoming BYD's sixth major IP following the Han, Tang, Qin, Song, and Yuan. According to online rumors, the names "Zhou" and "Xia" have entered the final round of naming candidates, but the final name will need to wait for BYD's official announcement.

Secondly, the new vehicle is positioned as a mid-to-large flagship MPV, adopting the Dragon Face 3.0 design language. Its length can exceed 5 meters, with a wheelbase of over 3 meters. The interior will also feature a brand-new design concept and a 2+2+3 seven-seat layout across three rows.

In terms of power, the new vehicle is expected to be equipped with BYD's latest fifth-generation DM technology, consisting of a 1.5T hybrid-dedicated engine and an electric motor. This combination ensures robust power output while maintaining fuel economy. The expected 0-100 km/h acceleration time is within 9 seconds, and the pure electric driving range exceeds 100 kilometers.

Hall 10: Avita 07 vs. Zeekr 7X - Who Steals the Show?

Hall 10 of the 2024 Chengdu Auto Show serves as a gathering place for new energy vehicle brands, attracting numerous emerging automotive companies such as NIO, Zeekr, Leapmotor, Avita, IM Motors, and Hyperion. All of them will showcase their latest products. Among them, Avita 07 and Zeekr 7X are undoubtedly the stars of the show.

Avita's mid-size SUV, the Avita 07, will make its debut at the Chengdu Auto Show and officially start presales, with an expected price range of 250,000 to 350,000 yuan. The new vehicle embodies the AVATR 2.0 design concept and will be equipped with Huawei's ADS 3.0 intelligent driving system. Additionally, the Avita 07 offers two powertrain options: an extended-range version and a pure electric version, catering to different user needs. The extended-range version is powered by a 1.5T range extender and electric motor, while the pure electric version boasts a driving range of up to 650 kilometers.

As Zeekr's first mid-size SUV, the Zeekr 7X is also scheduled to make its debut at the Chengdu Auto Show. The vehicle adopts the Hidden Energy design language, featuring a through-type smoked combination headlight and the ZEEKR STARGATE integrated smart light screen, presenting a futuristic and imposing visual effect. In terms of power, the Zeekr 7X comes standard with an 800V high-voltage platform, offering both lithium iron phosphate and ternary lithium batteries. The single-motor version boasts a maximum power of 310kW, while the four-wheel-drive version reaches a maximum total power of 475kW, promising impressive performance.

Hall 11: The Fourth-Generation CS75PLUS Worth Noticing

Hall 11 of this year's Chengdu Auto Show features both emerging brands like Jiyue and XPeng vying for attention and traditional automakers such as Changan and Dongfeng lending support. In terms of new products, there are plenty of highlights. Among them, the fourth-generation CS75PLUS, which has recently rolled off the production line as Changan's sales driver, will make its debut at the show.

As the successor to the third-generation CS75 PLUS, the fourth-generation CS75 PLUS brings upgrades to its exterior, interior, and specifications. After making its debut at this year's Chengdu Auto Show, the new vehicle is scheduled to be launched in September. In terms of exterior design, the fourth-generation CS75 PLUS continues the boundaryless concept with a large inverted trapezoidal grille, complemented by new LED headlights and upgraded daytime running lights featuring a multi-bar design. Minor adjustments have been made to the lower intake grille, and the vehicle's length and width have increased compared to the current model.

The interior of the fourth-generation CS75 PLUS adopts a brand-new design, featuring an embracing cockpit with a 37-inch integrated suspended triple-screen display in the center console. The hidden air vents below the center screen resemble those of the Deep Blue S07. Notably, the new vehicle will offer a zero-gravity queen seat for the front passenger.

Under the hood, the fourth-generation CS75 PLUS is powered by a 1.5T Bluecore engine with a maximum power of 141kW and a peak torque of 310N·m, slightly upgrading from the current model. The transmission system continues to pair with an Aisin 8AT automatic transmission.

Hall 14: BMW X3L Takes Center Stage

When it comes to the most anticipated luxury SUV this year, many consumers would undoubtedly vote for the BMW X3L. At Hall 14 of the Chengdu Auto Show, the BMW X3L will make its debut.

As BMW's key offering in the mid-size luxury SUV market, the BMW X3L boasts a 110mm longer wheelbase than the standard-wheelbase version, reaching 2975mm, which is identical to that of the standard-wheelbase BMW X5. This significantly enhances interior space, particularly legroom for rear passengers.

The new vehicle sports a larger kidney grille adorned with vertical and diagonal chrome elements. The BMW Iconic Glow kidney grille further enhances nighttime visibility. The interior adheres to BMW's principles of "simplicity amidst complexity" and "driver-centric design," featuring large curved displays that elevate the luxury and technological ambiance.

Powering the BMW X3L's 30Li variant is a 2.0T turbocharged engine delivering a maximum power of 211kW, a notable improvement over the 2023 model currently on sale. This powertrain ensures exceptional performance across various road conditions, paired with an 8-speed Steptronic Sport Automatic transmission. Additionally, the new vehicle comes equipped with BMW xDrive, further enhancing handling and stability.

Hall 15: LYNK & CO Z10 Poised for a Breakout

In contrast, Hall 15 of this year's Chengdu Auto Show hosts relatively fewer brands, including Audi, Genesis, and Jaguar Land Rover. However, when it comes to the most anticipated new vehicle, the LYNK & CO Z10 undoubtedly takes center stage.

On August 15, LYNK & CO officially opened pre-orders for its first pure electric sedan, the Z10, which is scheduled to launch on September 5. Design-wise, the Z10 adopts the brand's familial design language, characterized by a closed front face and split headlights, both highly recognizable. As LYNK & CO's first mid-to-large sedan, the Z10 measures 5028mm in length and boasts a wheelbase of 3005mm.

The interior features a 15.4-inch central touchscreen and a fully touch-controlled design, delivering impressive performances in terms of intelligent driving and cockpit technology. Under the hood, the Z10's single-motor variant boasts a maximum power of 310kW, while the dual-motor variant reaches a maximum power of 580kW, with a maximum driving range of 806km.

Hall 16: Dongfeng Mengshi Breaks Through in the Luxury Hall

Hall 16 of this year's Chengdu Auto Show is truly a "luxury hall," gathering ultra-luxury brands such as Porsche, Rolls-Royce, Lamborghini, Bentley, and Lotus. However, the standout new model worth checking out is undoubtedly Dongfeng Mengshi's million-yuan luxury vehicle – the Dongfeng Mengshi 917 Lorinser M800 Starship.

The Dongfeng Mengshi M800 Starship is based on the current Mengshi 917 model. The new vehicle features a composite carbon fiber armored body, offering lightness, strength, premium quality, and luxury. Its front design highlights a futuristic aesthetic, complete with custom spotlights on the roof and angular wheel arches, exuding a rugged charm.

Jointly developed by Mengshi and the customization brand Lorinser, the vehicle will be powered by a range-extended system, featuring a 1.5T range extender with a maximum power of 140kW and front and rear electric motors, each with a maximum power of 200kW. The powertrain operates on a 400V platform.