The 2026 Forthing Taikon 5 enters the Australian market as an affordable mid-size SUV, offering both EREV and EV variants with competitive pricing and features.
UPDATED 14/07/2026 10:30am: Forthing distributor Ateco Automotive has confirmed the Range Extender Hybrid version of the Taikon 5 is rear-wheel drive, contrary to previous reports of it being front-wheel drive.
The Forthing Taikon 5 is set to make its showroom debut shortly, offering buyers the choice between an extended-range electric vehicle (EREV)—designated as a Range Extender Hybrid—and a fully electric vehicle (EV). This model positions itself as Australia's most affordable mid-size electric SUV and also the lowest-priced EREV available in the market.
Currently, EREVs are somewhat scarce in Australia compared to their prevalence in places like China. The hybrid's appeal lies in its ability to combine a petrol engine with electric driving, providing added flexibility for users. Remarkably, the Taikon 5's EREV variants are priced lower than their electric counterparts, a unique offering in the Australian automotive scene.
Pricing Highlights
The pricing structure for the Forthing Taikon 5 is notably attractive:
| Model | Drive-away price |
|---|---|
| 2026 Forthing Taikon 5 Range Extender Hybrid Luxury | $36,990 |
| 2026 Forthing Taikon 5 BEV Luxury | $38,990 |
| 2026 Forthing Taikon 5 Range Extender Hybrid Exclusive | $40,490 |
| 2026 Forthing Taikon 5 BEV Exclusive | $42,490 |
For comparison, the EREV model starts at $36,990, whereas the electric version is just $2000 more expensive. The pricing undercuts other competitors in its class, such as the newly introduced EREV version of the Leapmotor B10 Style, which is listed at $37,888 before on-road costs. Additionally, the electric Taikon 5 is priced lower than the BYD Atto 3 Essential, which retails for $39,990 before on-road fees.
Ateco Automotive, the local distributor also managing brands such as LDV and Maserati, has established a network of Forthing showrooms across Australia to facilitate sales and service for the Taikon 5.
Drivetrain and Efficiency
In terms of drivetrain, the EREV utilizes a smaller battery compared to its fully electric sibling. Both variants reportedly take around 30 minutes to charge from 30% to 80%, making them convenient for quick top-ups during travels. Each Taikon 5 variant supports vehicle-to-load (V2L) capabilities, enabling drivers to power external appliances with up to 3.5kW.
Specifications Overview
The specifications for the Forthing Taikon 5 are as follows:
| Specifications | Range Extender Hybrid | BEV |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L 4cyl | - |
| Engine outputs | 75kW + 130Nm | - |
| Electric motor outputs | 120kW + 240Nm | 150kW + 340Nm |
| Battery | 31kWh lithium iron phosphate | 64kWh lithium iron phosphate |
| Drive type | Rear-wheel drive | Front-wheel drive |
| Kerb weight | 1820kg | 1920kg |
| Electric driving range (WLTP) | 170km | 427km |
| Total combined range (WLTP) | 937km | - |
| Max DC charge rate | 40kW | 80kW |
| Fuel tank capacity | 43L | - |
| Fuel requirement | 91-octane regular unleaded | - |
Dimensions Comparison
The Forthing Taikon 5 boasts dimensions closely mirroring those of the popular Toyota RAV4, making it a familiar size for SUV shoppers:
| Dimensions | Range Extender Hybrid | BEV |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 4600mm | 4600mm |
| Width | 1860mm | 1860mm |
| Height | 1700mm | 1680mm |
| Wheelbase | 2715mm | 2715mm |
Servicing and Warranty Information
Owners can expect a seven-year or 200,000km warranty on their Taikon 5. The service intervals are set at 12 months or 15,000km for EREV variants and 12 months or 20,000km for EV variants. Notably, Forthing has yet to announce a capped-price servicing plan, which may be a consideration for potential buyers seeking predictability in ownership costs.
Safety Features
Safety assessments from independent authorities like ANCAP are pending for the Taikon 5. However, the vehicle is equipped with a range of standard safety features, including:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Autonomous emergency braking
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Lane-keep assist
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Safe exit warning
- Traffic sign recognition
- 6 airbags (front, front-side, and curtain)
- Rear parking sensors
- Reversing camera
- Tyre pressure monitoring
The Exclusive variant adds front parking sensors and a surround-view camera for enhanced safety.
Standard Equipment Package
Forthing offers two trim levels, Luxury and Exclusive, both of which can be configured with either the EREV or EV powertrains. Standard features for the base Luxury version include:
- 19-inch alloy wheels with 235/55/R19 tyres
- Bi-LED headlights
- 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster
- 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- AM/FM radio and DAB+ digital radio
- 4-speaker sound system
- 10-way power driver's seat with ventilation and massage
- 4-way power passenger seat
- Height- and reach-adjustable steering wheel
- Electric park brake
The Exclusive trim enhances the package with:
- Space-saver spare (EREV only)
- Power tailgate
- Opening panoramic sunroof
- Rear privacy glass
- Power-folding exterior mirrors
- 6-speaker sound system
- Wireless phone charger
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
For those interested in custom looks, metallic paint is available as a $600 option.
