Great Wall Motors has expanded its premium lineup by launching a new plug-in hybrid minivan series under its high-end brand, Wey. Known as Gaoshan, the lineup has evolved from a single model into a full-fledged family featuring three distinct variants: Gaoshan 7, Gaoshan 8, and Gaoshan 9. These models enter direct competition with rivals like the Denza D9 and Voyah Dream.
The Gaoshan story began in October 2023 with the original model's debut, which was later sold internationally as the Wey 80. Although total sales reached only 8,378 units by April 2025, Great Wall Motors opted to transform the model into a complete series aimed at the luxury minivan market.
Distinguishing Features of Gaoshan 8 and Gaoshan 9
Both the Gaoshan 8 and Gaoshan 9 feature a contemporary design inspired by minivans like the Toyota Alphard. They are equipped with a wide chrome front grille, flat roofline, sliding rear doors, and a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor. These vehicles offer a luxurious ride, combining modern technologies tailored for both families and business users.
While they share many exterior similarities, the primary differences between the Gaoshan 8 and Gaoshan 9 lie in their dimensions and interior layouts. The Gaoshan 8 measures 5,280 mm in length, 1,960 mm in width, and 1,900 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,145 mm. It offers a 2+2+3 seating configuration across three rows, along with a rear cargo space of 435 liters and a 17.3-inch entertainment screen for second-row passengers.
In contrast, the flagship Gaoshan 9 is slightly larger, measuring 5,410 mm in length with a 3,275 mm wheelbase. It features a 2+2+2 seating layout and a smaller cargo capacity of 315 liters. Both models share the same center console layout, which includes two 15.6-inch integrated screens powered by Snapdragon processors running on a smart operating system. They also feature a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a large 26-inch head-up display, wireless phone charging pads, and 12.5-liter mini fridges.
Robust Hybrid System & All-Wheel Drive Across Models
Both Gaoshan models are equipped with an advanced plug-in hybrid system that pairs a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine producing approximately 170 horsepower with two electric motors delivering 107 hp and 228 hp, respectively. This setup results in a total combined output of 452 horsepower, transmitted through a standard all-wheel-drive system. The result is strong acceleration, confident traction, and enhanced stability across various road conditions.
The electric driving range varies slightly between the two models. The Gaoshan 8 is fitted with a 44.28 kWh ternary lithium battery, offering up to 172 kilometers of electric-only range based on WLTC standards. In contrast, the Gaoshan 9 features a larger 51.55 kWh battery pack, extending the electric range to approximately 201 kilometers, providing greater flexibility for daily commutes and longer journeys.
Pricing and Competitive Landscape: Value Meets Luxury
Pricing for the Gaoshan 8 starts at 309,800 Chinese yuan, approximately 161,000 Saudi riyals. Meanwhile, the flagship Gaoshan 9 reaches 353,900 yuan, or around 184,000 riyals. Both models are positioned to compete directly with premium rivals such as the Denza D9, Voyah Dream, and Xpeng X9.
Great Wall Motors also plans to introduce a more compact and budget-friendly model under the same series, the Gaoshan 7. This upcoming version will feature smaller dimensions, measuring 5,050 mm in length with a 3,085 mm wheelbase, making it an ideal choice for buyers seeking practicality within a more accessible price range.
My passion for cars began long before my journey into automotive journalism in 2015. Even though I'm originally a pharmacist, the thrill of speed, elegant designs, and roaring engines has always had my heart. Today, I channel this passion by exploring the newest cars and sharing my experiences with fellow car enthusiasts across the GCC.
