Great Wall Motor (GWM) has introduced two new versions of its Menglong Plus plug-in hybrid (PHEV) SUV in China, targeting different buyer needs. The Menglong Plus Hi4 255 Ultra and the Menglong Plus Lihun Edition were launched on September 23, with official guide prices of 189,800 yuan (about $26,700) and 196,800 yuan (about $27,700) respectively. A limited-time promotional price brings the starting point down to 177,800 yuan (about $25,000) for the Hi4 255 Ultra and 184,800 yuan (about $26,000) for the Lihun Edition. All prices are Chinese guide prices before taxes and incentives, according to NetEase Auto.
The two models share the same body dimensions—4,912 mm long, 1,950 mm wide, and 1,905 mm tall, with a 2,850 mm wheelbase—but differ sharply in styling and focus. The Lihun Edition is a factory-tuned off-road variant, featuring a full exterior kit that meets regulatory standards and requires no post-market modifications. It comes with an H-shaped front grille, hood air intakes, a roof-mounted lidar, and 18-inch all-terrain tires. Available in Flame Black and a 4,000-yuan optional Blazing Orange, it also sports blacked-out trim and a side window badge reading "Lihun" in English.
The Hi4 255 Ultra, by contrast, is pitched as a family-oriented model, offering five color options including Moon White, Midnight Black, Ink Jiangnan Grey, Crystal Yellow, and Dunhuang Green. It rides on 19-inch wheels with 255/60R19 road tires, better suited for urban driving. Inside, the Lihun Edition features a black cabin with orange contrast stitching, while the Hi4 255 Ultra offers three interior color schemes—Basalt Black, Amber Brown, and Sand Dune Beige—along with 45 storage compartments, a front passenger wireless charging pad, rear tray tables, front seat massage, passenger leg rest, ventilated and heated seats for all rows, a refrigerator, and 220V external power output.
Powertrain and capabilities
Both variants are powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine paired with dual electric motors, delivering a combined output of 330 kW (about 443 hp) and 660 Nm of torque. The system is mated to a 44.7 kWh ternary lithium battery pack, providing a CLTC-rated electric-only range of 255 km. For reference, that is roughly equivalent to a WLTP range of around 204–217 km (est.), as CLTC figures are typically 15–20% more optimistic than WLTP. The SUV accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.8 seconds, and the WLTC low-charge fuel consumption is 6.2 L/100 km.
Standard equipment includes GWM's Hi4 electric all-wheel drive and a rear electronic mechanical locking differential, along with seven driving modes—standard, snow, mud, sand, and Lihun—plus tank turn and crawl functions for off-road capability.
Feature differences and purchase benefits
The two models differ notably in driver assistance hardware. The Hi4 255 Ultra drops the higher-tier ADC 3.0 system found on the previous flagship, offering only basic L2 assistance, with an optional electronically controlled damper available for 3,000 yuan (about $420). The Lihun Edition, meanwhile, comes standard with Coffee Pilot 3, which supports urban and highway NOA (navigate on autopilot) and memory parking. Buyers can also add a package for 12,000 yuan (about $1,690) that includes the advanced driving package, electronically controlled dampers, and a damping preview system.
For orders placed and invoiced by October 31, GWM is offering a 12,000-yuan trade-in subsidy, up to 60,000 yuan in zero-interest financing over 24 months, or a five-year loan with zero interest for the first two years. First owners receive a lifetime warranty on the battery, motor, and electronic control, plus free basic and smart services, three years of free entertainment data, and a free charging pile with installation within two years. The Hi4 255 Ultra also offers a free 4,000-yuan matte paint option in Ink Jiangnan Grey.
With a price gap of less than 10,000 yuan, the choice between the two comes down to lifestyle: the Lihun Edition appeals to buyers who want a rugged look without the hassle of aftermarket modifications, while the Hi4 255 Ultra suits families seeking a long electric range for daily commuting.
