The Evolution of the VGV VX7: From SUV-Based Pickup to Lifestyle Utility Vehicle
The VGV VX7 is one of the more unusual pickup trucks to emerge from China in recent years. Developed by VGV, a passenger vehicle division of Sinotruk Group, the VX7 combines the styling and comfort of a modern crossover SUV with the practicality of a pickup truck. Since its introduction in 2022, the model has represented VGV’s attempt to create what the company describes as a “passenger pickup,” targeting families and recreational users rather than traditional commercial truck buyers.
Origins of the VGV Brand
The VGV brand was established in 2019 by Weichai (Chongqing) Automotive, which later became part of Sinotruk. The brand was created to compete in China’s rapidly growing crossover and light-vehicle market. Its early lineup consisted primarily of SUVs, including the U70 and the more upscale U75 Plus. The VX7 would eventually be developed from the U75 Plus platform.
Unlike traditional body-on-frame pickups, the VX7 was designed as a unibody vehicle derived from an SUV. This approach emphasized ride comfort, modern styling, and everyday usability over heavy-duty work capabilities. The concept followed a growing trend among Chinese manufacturers to develop lifestyle-oriented pickups aimed at urban customers.
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Development and Launch (2022)
The VGV VX7 was officially unveiled in February 2022 and entered production shortly thereafter. Built on the same architecture as the VGV U75 Plus crossover, the pickup shared much of its front-end styling, interior design, and mechanical components with its SUV sibling.
The truck featured a four-door double-cab configuration and measured approximately 197.4 inches long (5,015 mm), 73.6 inches wide (1,870 mm), and 68.2 inches high (1,732 mm), with a wheelbase of 110.2 inches (2,800 mm). Cargo bed dimensions measured roughly 43.9 inches by 56.6 inches by 23.1 inches (1,114 mm × 1,438 mm × 588 mm).
Power came from a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine producing approximately 224 horsepower and 284 lb-ft (385 Nm) of torque. The engine was paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. Top speed was listed at approximately 122 mph (196 km/h).
2022 Model Year
The initial VX7 lineup was launched with multiple trim levels in the Chinese market. Available versions included:
- 2.0T Base
- 2.0T Deluxe
- 2.0T Flagship Edition
The Flagship Edition served as the highest specification model and included a more comprehensive equipment package. Features available across the range included LED lighting, a digital instrument cluster, touchscreen infotainment, voice-control functionality, electronic parking brake, panoramic camera systems, traction control, stability control, and multiple driving modes.
A special lifestyle-oriented version featuring a sloped rear cargo cover was also displayed during the model’s introduction. Marketed toward outdoor enthusiasts, this variant emphasized camping and recreational activities rather than commercial use.
2023 Model Year
For 2023, the VX7 remained largely unchanged mechanically. VGV continued positioning the vehicle as a premium lifestyle pickup rather than a work truck. The company focused on expanding availability and improving equipment levels instead of introducing major engineering revisions. The model maintained its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and automatic transmission combination.
The truck’s crossover-derived construction continued to distinguish it from conventional pickups. Independent suspension systems and passenger-car-oriented tuning delivered a smoother ride than many traditional competitors.
Introduction of the VX7 VIP Model (2022–Present)
Later in 2022, VGV expanded the lineup with the introduction of the VX7 VIP Model. This trim became the flagship offering and added additional luxury and convenience features intended to attract buyers seeking a more upscale experience. The VIP version retained the same powertrain and dimensions but featured enhanced equipment and trim details.
Known VX7 Trim Levels
Throughout its production run, the following trims and variants have been documented:
| Model Year | Trim Level |
|---|---|
| 2022 | 2.0T Base |
| 2022 | 2.0T Deluxe |
| 2022 | 2.0T Flagship Edition |
| 2022–Present | 2.0T VIP Model |
| 2024 | Cambodian “Half” Specification |
| 2024 | Cambodian “Full” Specification |
Available trim names varied by market, with export models often receiving localized branding and packaging.
International Expansion
Although originally developed for China, the VX7 eventually entered international markets. One of the most notable expansions occurred in 2024 when the vehicle was introduced in Cambodia under the name GTV Krusar. The Cambodian version retained the VX7’s overall design and engineering while adopting local branding.
The Krusar was offered in two primary trims:
- Half
- Full
Equipment included LED headlights, leather seating, a touchscreen infotainment system, a 360-degree camera system, electronic parking brake with auto-hold functionality, and advanced driver-assistance technologies.
The Cambodian launch represented an important milestone for the VX7, demonstrating VGV’s ambitions beyond the Chinese domestic market.
Design Philosophy
The VX7 occupies a unique niche between traditional pickups and crossover SUVs. Rather than targeting construction sites or agricultural buyers, VGV designed the vehicle for urban lifestyles, weekend travel, camping, and family recreation. Company marketing materials frequently depicted outdoor activities such as fishing, camping, and road trips.
Key design characteristics include:
- SUV-inspired styling
- Four-door crew-cab body
- Passenger-focused interior
- Modern infotainment systems
- Car-like driving dynamics
- Moderate cargo-carrying capability
This approach aligns with a broader trend in the Chinese automotive industry toward multipurpose lifestyle vehicles.
Production Years
The VGV VX7 has been produced during the following years:
- 2022–Present (China)
- 2024–Present (Cambodia, as the GTV Krusar)
As of 2026, the model remains in production, with no official replacement announced.
Future Outlook
The future of the VX7 will likely depend on the continued growth of lifestyle pickups in China and emerging export markets. Demand for vehicles that combine SUV comfort with pickup versatility has increased significantly in recent years. If this trend continues, VGV may further develop the VX7 platform with updated powertrains, additional trim levels, and potentially electrified variants.
Given the rapid evolution of China’s automotive industry and increasing emphasis on electrification, hybrid or battery-electric successors could eventually appear. However, no official announcements regarding such developments have been made. Current indications suggest that VGV intends to continue expanding the VX7’s international presence while refining its existing product strategy.
The VGV VX7 represents an unconventional approach to the pickup truck segment. Introduced in 2022 as an SUV-derived lifestyle vehicle, it combines passenger-car comfort, modern technology, and moderate utility in a package aimed at recreational users rather than traditional truck buyers. Built on the foundations of the U75 Plus crossover, the VX7 has evolved through multiple trim levels, including the Flagship Edition and VIP Model, while also expanding into export markets such as Cambodia. As consumer preferences continue shifting toward versatile lifestyle vehicles, the VX7 remains an interesting example of how Chinese manufacturers are redefining the modern pickup truck.
