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 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, and the lines flow smoothly.
Build quality matters in the premium class. We found tight, consistent panel gaps. The paint finish is deep and lustrous, and 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, and 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, a large central display and a 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, and both front and rear passengers get excellent space.
The cabin is packed with features that cost extra on German rivals. A few highlights stood out 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.
- An Infinity sound system that delivers clear, powerful audio.
- Highly customisable ambient lighting that enhances the premium feel.
Infotainment: A Flawed Gem?
The infotainment system looks impressive and offers many features. It responds well most of the time, and the graphics are crisp and modern.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto work properly, letting 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, and 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, and 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 the typical P2 or P4 hybrid systems used by many European competitors. The WEY's DHT is designed specifically to maximise electric-only driving, delivering both high efficiency and strong, immediate power when needed.
The 146 km Electric Range Test
The official WLTP figure reaches up to 146 km — class-leading numbers. But real-world performance is what matters, so we ran a dedicated test to verify the 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 before 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.
That 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 a 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 one of effortless, rapid acceleration. The car surges forward with authority, high-speed merges feel safe and easy, and 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, and 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, and 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 tyre noise are exceptionally well-suppressed, making 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.
It performed admirably, bringing the car to smooth stops and resuming acceleration gently while keeping 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 and build 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 just as much for German buyers.
Analysing 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 its German counterparts.
| Feature | GWM WEY 05 | Audi Q5 55 TFSI e | BMW X3 xDrive30e |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base price (est.) | ~€55,900 | ~€64,000 | ~€66,000 |
| E-range (WLTP) | ~146 km | ~62 km | ~50 km |
| Standard kit | High | Medium (options) | Medium (options) |
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 by partnering 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, indicating slow but sure market penetration.
This challenge is well-documented. An analysis from the respected Center of Automotive Management (CAM) highlights it: 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: five years for the car and eight years for the battery. This helps address concerns about a new brand.
For owners looking beyond standard dealer services, a supportive ecosystem is emerging. If you're looking for accessories or specific replacement components for your GWM, specialist suppliers can be valuable resources for keeping the car in top condition over the long term.
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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 to give you 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 who prioritise the latest plug-in hybrid technology, class-leading electric range and vast standard features — and value those 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
- Class-leading real-world electric range (121 km on test)
- Exceptional value with a high standard specification
- Genuinely luxurious, well-equipped interior
- Strong, seamless plug-in hybrid performance
- Unproven long-term reliability and resale value
- Service network still developing vs 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the GWM WEY 05's electric range?
The WEY 05 has a class-leading WLTP electric range of up to 146 km from its large 39.7 kWh battery. In our real-world Munich test — city traffic and ring road, heating on — we achieved 121 km on pure electric power before the petrol engine engaged, easily enough for a week of commuting for many drivers.
How much does the GWM WEY 05 cost?
The WEY 05 starts at around €55,900 in Germany — roughly €8,000-10,000 less than an Audi Q5 55 TFSI e (~€64,000) or BMW X3 xDrive30e (~€66,000), while including more standard equipment. Much of the kit that's optional on the German rivals is fitted as standard here.
Is the GWM WEY 05 a plug-in hybrid?
Yes. The WEY 05 is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) using a 2.0L turbocharged petrol engine and two electric motors through a 2-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT). Combined output is 350 kW (476 hp), with a 0-100 km/h time of about 5.0 seconds.
¿Cómo se compara el WEY 05 con el Audi Q5 y el BMW X3?
Sobre el papel, el WEY 05 ofrece mucha más autonomía eléctrica (~146 km vs ~50-62 km) y más equipamiento de serie por un precio inferior. Igual a sus rivales en cuanto a velocidad en línea recta y comodidad en Autobahn. Lo que sacrifica es el prestigio de una marca establecida, una red de servicio completamente madura y un valor de reventa a largo plazo comprobado.
¿Es fiable el GWM WEY 05?
Al ser un modelo muy nuevo en Europa, todavía no hay datos de fiabilidad a largo plazo. De forma tranquilizadora, está respaldado por una garantía de 5 años para el vehículo y 8 años para la batería, obtuvo una calificación de 5 estrellas Euro NCAP (probado como Coffee 01) y recibe servicio a través de la red establecida de Emil Frey en Alemania. La calidad de construcción de nuestro coche de prueba se sintió sólida.
¿Cómo es el interior del GWM WEY 05?
Es genuinamente premium: tres pantallas, asientos de cuero Nappa, asientos delanteros calefactables, ventilados y con masaje, un techo solar panorámico, un sistema de sonido Infinity e iluminación ambiental personalizable, gran parte de serie. El principal inconveniente es una estructura de menú de infoentretenimiento que requiere tiempo para aprender.
