The Evolution of the DFSK Glory 560: DFSK’s Compact Family SUV for Global Markets
The DFSK Glory 560 became an important part of DFSK Motor’s expanding SUV lineup during the late 2010s. Developed by Dongfeng Sokon Automobile, commonly known as DFSK, the Glory 560 was introduced as a compact crossover SUV positioned below the larger Glory 580. The model was designed to appeal to buyers seeking affordable family transportation with modern styling, seven-seat practicality, and competitive technology features.
Since its introduction in 2017, the Glory 560 has been sold in numerous international markets under various names, including the Dongfeng Fengguang S560 in China and the DFSK Glory 560 in export markets. The SUV helped DFSK strengthen its presence in Southeast Asia, South America, and other emerging automotive regions.
Although it was positioned as a budget-oriented crossover, the Glory 560 evolved steadily over the years with improved engines, upgraded interior technology, and additional trim levels that reflected the rapid advancement of Chinese automotive manufacturing.
Origins of DFSK and the Glory Series
DFSK was formed as a joint venture between Dongfeng Motor Corporation and Sokon Industry Group. Initially known for producing commercial vehicles and compact vans, the company gradually expanded into passenger vehicles as demand for SUVs surged in China during the 2010s.
The “Glory” sub-brand, also known as Fengguang or Fengon in some markets, was created to target family-oriented SUV buyers. The larger Glory 580 became DFSK’s first major crossover success, and the company quickly followed with the smaller Glory 560 to compete in the growing compact SUV segment.
The Glory 560 officially debuted in China during 2017 as the Dongfeng Fengguang S560. Production began the same year, and the model later entered export markets beginning in 2018 and 2019.
.
.
First Generation DFSK Glory 560 (2017–Present)
The first-generation Glory 560 was designed as a practical compact crossover SUV with either five-seat or 5+2 seating configurations depending on market requirements.
The SUV featured:
- Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout
- Five-door crossover body style
- Raised ride height
- Modern SUV-inspired styling
- Flexible passenger and cargo space
Dimensionally, the Glory 560 measured approximately:
| Specification | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Length | 177.8 inches |
| Width | 71.5 inches |
| Height | 68.3 inches |
| Wheelbase | 105.9 inches |
These dimensions positioned the SUV between compact and mid-size crossover categories. The vehicle was slightly smaller than the Glory 580 but still offered generous interior room for families.
Exterior Design Evolution
The Glory 560 adopted a more youthful and sporty appearance than earlier DFSK vehicles. The front fascia featured:
- Large chrome-accented grille
- Swept-back headlights
- LED daytime running lights
- Sculpted hood design
- Elevated ground clearance
The SUV’s proportions and styling reflected the broader influence of global crossover design trends during the late 2010s.
Throughout its production run, DFSK introduced several small styling revisions that included:
- Updated wheel designs
- Revised front bumpers
- Additional chrome trim
- New lighting signatures
- Refreshed rear taillight designs
The design remained relatively modern for the price category, especially in developing markets where affordable seven-seat SUVs were in strong demand.
Engine and Powertrain Options
The Glory 560 was offered with two primary gasoline engine choices throughout most markets.
1.5-Liter Turbocharged Engine
The most widely available engine was a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four producing approximately 148–150 horsepower and 169 lb-ft of torque.
This engine became the preferred option in many export markets because it offered:
- Better acceleration
- Improved highway performance
- Stronger low-end torque
- Better load-carrying capability
Transmission options included:
- Six-speed manual
- CVT automatic
1.8-Liter Naturally Aspirated Engine
The second engine option was a 1.8-liter naturally aspirated inline-four producing approximately 137–139 horsepower.
This engine focused more on simplicity and lower operating costs. It was often paired with:
- Five-speed manual transmission
- CVT automatic transmission
Both powertrains used front-wheel drive only. All-wheel drive was never widely offered for the Glory 560.
Initial Trim Levels (2017–2019)
The early Glory 560 lineup varied by region, but the most common trims included:
| Trim Level | Main Features |
|---|---|
| B-Type | Basic infotainment, cloth seating, manual controls |
| C-Type | Upgraded multimedia, alloy wheels, improved interior trim |
| L-Type | Premium equipment, CVT option, leather seating |
These trim names became especially common in Indonesia after the SUV officially launched there in 2019.
B-Type
The entry-level B-Type trim targeted budget-conscious buyers and fleet users.
Standard equipment generally included:
- Cloth seats
- Manual air conditioning
- Power windows
- Basic touchscreen infotainment
- Rear parking sensors
- Steel or basic alloy wheels
C-Type
The mid-level C-Type trim added more comfort and convenience features, including:
- Larger touchscreen display
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Additional chrome trim
- Improved seat materials
- Rear camera systems
- Enhanced audio equipment
L-Type
The L-Type became the flagship trim during the SUV’s early years.
Features included:
- Leather upholstery
- CVT transmission availability
- Push-button start
- Smart key entry
- Larger infotainment screen
- Additional safety systems
- Upgraded wheels
The L-Type also became the only trim in some markets to offer the naturally aspirated 1.8-liter engine.
Interior and Technology Development
One of the strongest selling points of the Glory 560 was its interior equipment level relative to price.
Depending on trim and market, the SUV offered:
- 8-inch touchscreen infotainment systems
- Apple and Android smartphone connectivity
- GPS navigation
- Voice-control systems
- Leather seating
- Panoramic sunroof
- Reverse camera
- Push-button start
DFSK also emphasized practicality by including up to 29 storage compartments throughout the cabin.
The interior design improved steadily over time as DFSK refined material quality and infotainment functionality.
Safety Features
Early Chinese SUVs were often criticized for limited safety technology, but the Glory 560 gradually improved in this area.
Available safety equipment included:
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
- Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
- Emergency Brake Assist (EBA)
- Hill Hold Control (HHC)
- Traction Control System (TCS)
- Rear parking sensors
- Reverse camera
- Dual front airbags
Higher trim levels added more electronic safety systems, helping the SUV compete against similarly priced rivals from Japanese and Korean manufacturers.
Global Expansion
The Glory 560 became one of DFSK’s major export vehicles.
Major export markets included:
- Indonesia
- Thailand
- Colombia
- Ecuador
- Pakistan
- South America
- Southeast Asia
In Indonesia, the SUV officially launched in 2019 and quickly became one of DFSK’s most visible products in the region.
Thailand received updated versions beginning with the 2022 model year, including improved infotainment systems and CVT-equipped turbocharged variants.
Production Timeline
The DFSK Glory 560 lineup evolved gradually rather than through complete redesigns.
| Model | Years Produced |
|---|---|
| Dongfeng Fengguang S560 | 2017–present |
| DFSK Glory 560 B-Type | 2019–present |
| DFSK Glory 560 C-Type | 2019–present |
| DFSK Glory 560 L-Type | 2019–present |
| Updated Glory 560 Turbo CVT | 2022–present |
Although the model has not yet received a full second-generation redesign, DFSK continues updating the SUV with revised technology and trim enhancements.
Market Reception
The Glory 560 gained popularity mainly because of its affordability and practicality.
Owners and reviewers commonly praised:
- Spacious cabin
- Seven-seat flexibility
- Strong equipment value
- Competitive pricing
- Modern styling
However, criticism focused on:
- Inconsistent build quality
- Limited dealer support in some markets
- Fuel economy concerns
- Weaker resale values compared with Japanese rivals
Despite these issues, the SUV performed well in developing markets where affordability and passenger capacity were more important than brand prestige.
Future Outlook
The future of the DFSK Glory 560 will likely involve electrification and additional technology upgrades. DFSK’s parent companies have increasingly focused on hybrid systems, intelligent infotainment, and electric vehicle development.
As Chinese manufacturers continue expanding globally, vehicles like the Glory 560 demonstrate the industry’s rapid improvement in design, engineering, and feature content.
While the Glory 560 remains positioned as a value-oriented crossover, its steady evolution shows how Chinese automakers have become increasingly competitive in international SUV markets. The model continues serving as an important entry point for buyers seeking an affordable family SUV with modern features and flexible seating configurations.
