Dongfeng is celebrating its first year in the New Zealand market, with more than 1,000 new vehicles finding homes around the country since the brand’s local launch.
The milestone marks a strong start for the Chinese automotive marque, with the compact, city-focused Dongfeng BOX accounting for more than 60% of sales. Combining nimble dimensions, versatile practicality and accessible electric mobility, plus offering best-in-segment EV range of 317km (WLTP), the BOX has established itself as a key model in the brand’s growing local line-up.
Arek Zywot, General Manager for Dongfeng at Auto Distribution Holdings Ltd, Dongfeng’s New Zealand distributor, said the first year had demonstrated the appeal of offering well-equipped, contemporary vehicles at competitive prices across the range with BOX, VIGO and 007.
“When we launched our intention was to deliver value and break barriers to EV ownership, versatility and performance. Reaching more than 1,000 sales in our first year is a significant milestone for Dongfeng in New Zealand, with BOX and VIGO leading the charge,” said Mr Zywot.
“It shows there is a real opportunity for a brand that puts design, technology, practicality and value at the forefront. We’re building momentum, listening to our customers and continually looking for ways to improve the ownership experience.”
To mark the anniversary, Dongfeng is introducing a new Rose Gold with White Roof paint option for the BOX, adding a distinctive finish to the entry model in the range.
Limited to just 50 units, the special-edition BOX pairs the Rose Gold with White Roof exterior with a White/Black interior. The first 15 vehicles are expected to arrive in November, with the additional paint option costing $990 and bringing the limited-edition model’s price to $30,980 plus on-road costs.
The current BOX model is available at a special price from $29,990 plus on-road costs until the end of the year, after which the price will increase to $32,990 plus on-road costs. The standard paint is Twilight White and other colours are a $990 option.
Dongfeng is also preparing to introduce the updated MY27 007, bringing customer-inspired improvements to the stylish electric fastback. Pricing for the new Model Year remains unchanged at $54,990 plus on-road costs for the Long Range and $59,990 plus on-road costs for the Performance variant.
Both Long Range and Performance variants now offer 750kg braked/ unbraked towing capability, a retractable rear spoiler to enhance performance and the addition of heated front seats for more comfort for the driver and front passenger. The Performance model offers a new Black/Grey interior option, further broadening the model’s specification and personalisation choices.
The third model in the Dongfeng new car portfolio, the VIGO, is also proving popular on the sales front. At launch it debuted as New Zealand’s best value fully electric SUV and, since then, has established itself as a consistent performer in the charts.
Available from $39,990 plus on-road costs, the lifestyle-orientated VIGO SUV is finding favour with private, business and ride share customers, with drivers praising the vehicle for its spaciousness and comfortable ride as well as versatility and style. It is also currently available with 0% finance or $2,000 cashback, creating a smoother ownership pathway to the vehicle.
“Customer and dealer feedback plays an important role in shaping Dongfeng’s local offering, and we want current and future buyers to know that we listen and react,” said Mr Zywot.
“Their feedback helps us identify where we can make meaningful improvements, whether that’s in the 007, the BOX or VIGO. Continuous improvement is central to how we intend to grow the brand in New Zealand.”
Alongside product development, Dongfeng has rapidly expanded its nationwide dealer network, growing to 12 outlets in less than a year and representing 80% nationwide coverage. The expanded network gives customers access to more local sales and support options, helping make vehicle purchasing, servicing and ongoing ownership more convenient.
“With a growing range of vehicles, an expanding dealer network and a clear focus on customer feedback, we’re excited about the next chapter for Dongfeng in New Zealand,” said Mr Zywot. “Thanks to BOX, VIGO and 007 we’re reshaping the EV conversation and are continuing to break barriers to EV fun, versatility and performance.”
The five newest Dongfeng dealer locations are as follows:
Dongfeng West Auckland: 439 Great North Road, Henderson 0610
Dongfeng Rotorua: 6 Tallyho Street, Mangakakahi, Rotorua 3015
Dongfeng Taupo: Unit 2, 86 Miro Street, Tauhara, Taupo 3330
Dongfeng Hawkes Bay: 220 Prebensen Drive, Onekawa, Napier 4110
Dongfeng Manawatu: 178 John F Kennedy Drive, Milson, Palmerston North 4410
