This Rugged GAC SUV Has a 1.1-Meter Display Across the Windshield

Rugged SUVs usually follow a familiar formula. Boxy body, chunky tires, lots of black plastic and a cabin full of switches. GAC has taken that formula and added a heavy dose of modern technology with the new Yue 7.

The SUV first appeared in Chinese government filings, but GAC has now shown the production design and interior. The company calls its approach an “octagonal” design language. The name sounds more dramatic than the actual shapes, but the Yue 7 certainly has the tough stance GAC wanted.

The front end gives it the strongest personality. Squared matrix headlights sit above five square LED daytime-running light segments on each side. GAC also integrates its badge into the grille and covers the lower bumper with black plastic. That should help protect the bodywork when the Yue 7 leaves the pavement.

From the side, the SUV keeps things simple and upright. Angular wheel arches surround the wheels, while chunky door handles, large mirrors, and black side steps add to the off-road look. GAC plans several wheel and tire combinations, along with three different tailgate designs.

Then you open the door, and the Yue 7 takes a very different direction.

A massive 1.1-meter-wide head-up display stretches across the bottom of the windshield. A 15.6-inch central touchscreen handles infotainment, while three digital gauges sit behind the steering wheel. Those gauges bring a surprisingly retro feel to the otherwise futuristic dashboard.

GAC also avoids the trend of replacing every control with a touchscreen. The Yue 7 has plenty of physical buttons beneath the central air vents and around the center tunnel. A chunky four-spoke steering wheel adds to the rugged character, while a 50-watt wireless charger takes care of smartphones.

Off-road enthusiasts will probably appreciate the auxiliary switches too. Like the setup in a Jeep Wrangler or Gladiator, these controls allow owners to connect extra equipment such as lights and other accessories.

Inside, buyers will get three color themes: Sand Gold, Black and Cloud White.

GAC hasn’t revealed the final power figures yet, but earlier details give us a good idea of the standard setup. A 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder will work with an electric motor, while buyers can choose between 28.3-kWh and 45.9-kWh batteries.

The company hasn’t confirmed total system output, but the larger battery should provide up to 117 miles of electric driving.

That combination could make the Yue 7 an interesting alternative to traditional off-road SUVs. It looks like it belongs in the dirt, but inside it feels more like a high-tech EV.