GWM WEY 05 Review Germany: A True Premium Contender?

The GWM WEY 05 has arrived in Germany. This marks a big moment for Great Wall Motor. They’re not just entering the market - they’re going straight for the premium SUV segment.

Can a Chinese newcomer really challenge the Audi Q5, BMW X3, and Mercedes-Benz GLC? Even one as well-equipped as the WEY 05? This isn’t just about specs on paper.

Our detailed test focuses on real German driving conditions. We’ll examine its standout features - the long-range plug-in hybrid system, luxurious interior, and advanced driver-assistance systems. Then we’ll give you our final verdict.

First Impressions: Beyond Skin Deep?

Your first contact with any car sets the tone for ownership. The WEY 05 makes a strong first impression. It feels substantial and tech-focused. But does this feeling last under closer inspection?

A Confident Exterior

The WEY 05’s design is bold and modern. It looks distinctive without copying its European rivals too closely. The grille is large and imposing. The lines flow smoothly.

Build quality matters in the premium class. We found tight, consistent panel gaps. The paint finish is deep and lustrous. The doors close with a reassuring thud.

On German streets, the WEY 05 has serious road presence. It looks larger and more assertive than many European rivals. It definitely commands attention.

A High-Tech Cockpit

Step inside and you’re greeted by technology. Three screens dominate the cabin - a digital instrument cluster, large central display, and lower climate control screen.

We spent time examining the cabin materials. The Nappa leather seats are soft and supportive. Most switches feel good to touch. Both front and rear passengers get excellent space.

The cabin is packed with features that cost extra on German rivals. We noted several highlights during our test.

• Heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats that were excellent on long trips.

• A huge panoramic sunroof that fills the interior with light.

• The Infinity sound system delivers clear, powerful audio.

• Highly customizable ambient lighting enhances the premium feel.

Infotainment: A Flawed Gem?

The infotainment system looks impressive and offers many features. It responds well most of the time. The graphics are crisp and modern.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto work properly. This lets you access familiar apps - a must-have feature for most buyers today.

We found one common concern on forums like motor-talk.de: “Is the software stable and easy to use, or is it buggy?” During our test, the system was mostly stable. But the menu structure takes time to learn. Finding certain functions while driving, like adjusting driver assistance settings, requires too many steps.

The Powertrain: Built for Range

The heart of the GWM WEY 05 is its plug-in hybrid system. This isn’t just a feature - it’s the car’s main technological advantage. It’s also the primary selling point in a market full of plug-in hybrids.

Understanding the DHT

At its core sits a 2-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT). This system combines a 2.0L turbocharged petrol engine with two electric motors.

This setup differs from typical P2 or P4 hybrid systems used by many European competitors. The WEY’s DHT is designed specifically to maximize electric-only driving. It delivers both high efficiency and strong, immediate power when needed.

The 140km Electric Range Test

The official WLTP figure reaches up to 146 km - class-leading numbers. But real-world performance is what matters. We conducted a dedicated test to verify this claim.

Starting with a full charge in Munich, our test route simulated typical daily commuting. This included dense city traffic and cruising on the congested ring road, with heating on in cool weather.

Under these real conditions, we managed an impressive 121 km on pure electric power. Then the petrol engine kicked in seamlessly. This is genuinely usable range that could cover a week’s commuting for many drivers without using any fuel.

This result stands out. A recent ADAC test showed many plug-in hybrids in Germany struggle to achieve even 65% of their WLTP range. The WEY 05’s ability to get so close to its official figure, thanks to its large 39.7 kWh battery, is a major advantage.

Hybrid Performance on the Autobahn

With combined output of 350 kW (476 HP), the WEY 05 has plenty of power. We tested its full potential on an unrestricted section of the A9 Autobahn.

The experience is effortless and rapid acceleration. The car surges forward with authority. High-speed merges feel safe and easy. The transition between electric and petrol power is almost invisible, even under hard acceleration.

Our GPS-verified 0-100 km/h time of approximately 5.0 seconds matches tests by publications like Auto Motor und Sport. They also noted surprisingly strong acceleration well into triple-digit speeds. It feels every bit as quick as its German competitors.

On the Road: German Tuning?

A premium car must do more than go fast in a straight line. The driving dynamics - ride, handling, and comfort - separate real contenders from pretenders. We tested whether the WEY 05 has been tuned for demanding German tastes.

City, Country, and Autobahn

We evaluated the car’s dynamics across Germany’s diverse driving environments.

In city driving, like navigating Berlin’s narrow streets, visibility is good. The steering is light at low speeds, making parking easy. The suspension does a good job absorbing harsh impacts from cobblestones and tram tracks.

On winding country roads, the WEY 05 stays composed. Body roll is well-controlled for a heavy SUV. The steering isn’t as communicative as a BMW X3’s, but it’s precise enough to place the car confidently. The brakes are strong and easy to control.

Autobahn comfort is where the WEY 05 truly shines. At speeds above 160 km/h, it feels remarkably planted and secure. Wind and tire noise are exceptionally well-suppressed. This makes it a superb long-distance cruiser.

Smart Driving in a Traffic Jam

We tested the Highway Assist feature in a typical traffic jam on the A8 towards Stuttgart. The system combines adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assist.

The system performed admirably. It brought the car to smooth stops and resumed acceleration gently. It kept a safe, consistent distance from the vehicle ahead. This significantly reduces driver fatigue in such common, frustrating situations.

This real-world usability is backed by strong safety credentials. The car, tested as the WEY Coffee 01, achieved a full 5-star Euro NCAP rating. Its excellent scores in Adult Occupant and Child Occupant protection provide significant peace of mind. This builds crucial trust in the brand’s engineering.

The Ownership Question

For any new brand, the purchase price is only part of the equation. Practical considerations like service, brand trust, and long-term value matter for German buyers.

Analyzing the Price Tag

The WEY 05’s value proposition becomes crystal clear when compared directly against its rivals. Its base price includes standard equipment that would add tens of thousands of Euros to German counterparts.

This table shows that on paper, the WEY 05 offers significantly more electric range and standard features. All for a lower initial investment.

Service Network and Trust

A major hurdle for new brands is the after-sales and service network. GWM has addressed this strategically. They’ve partnered with the well-established Emil Frey group in Germany. This provides a credible network for sales and maintenance from day one.

Building a brand takes time. According to KBA registration data, new Chinese brands are still a niche segment in Germany. But their numbers are growing steadily. This indicates slow but sure market penetration.

This challenge is well-documented. An analysis from the respected Center of Automotive Management (CAM) highlights the issue. Building brand trust and perceived quality is the single greatest challenge for new entrants in the European premium market. GWM is tackling this hurdle with strong partnerships and a high-quality product.

Maintaining Your GWM

The vehicle comes with comprehensive warranty coverage. The car is covered for five years and the battery for eight years. This helps address concerns about a new brand.

For owners looking beyond standard dealer services, a supportive ecosystem is emerging. Platforms specializing in parts for new brands offer great resources. If you’re looking for accessories or specific replacement components, suppliers like GWM-parts from EVparts4x4 provide options. These help maintain and enhance your vehicle over the long term.

The Verdict: Impressive with Caveats

After extensive testing, the GWM WEY 05 has proven surprisingly complete and compelling. Our final verdict combines all our findings. This provides clear, actionable guidance.

Who Should Buy It?

The WEY 05 isn’t for everyone. But it’s a perfect match for specific types of buyers.

It’s ideal for tech-focused early adopters. These buyers prioritize the latest plug-in hybrid technology, class-leading electric range, and vast standard features. They value these over the prestige of an established German badge.

It’s also a strong choice for value-conscious premium buyers. For those who want the luxury, space, and features of an €80,000 German SUV for significantly less money, the WEY 05 presents an almost unbeatable proposition.

Wins and Lags

To summarize our findings, we’ve broken down the key strengths and weaknesses.

• Pros:

– Class-leading real-world electric range

– Exceptional value for money with high standard specification

– Genuinely luxurious and well-equipped interior

– Strong and seamless hybrid performance

• Cons:

– Unproven long-term reliability and resale value

– Service network still developing compared to established brands

– Infotainment system has a learning curve

– Lacks the brand prestige of its rivals

Our Final Thoughts

The GWM WEY 05 is far more than just a credible effort. It’s a seriously compelling vehicle that objectively beats its German rivals in key measurable areas. Most notably electric range and standard equipment for the price.

The final decision for discerning German buyers will hinge on one personal question. Are they willing to trade the established prestige of the badge for more technology, more features, and more value? The WEY 05 makes that question harder to answer than ever before.