Dongfeng Box gains safety upgrades for 2026

The Dongfeng Box has been updated for the 2026 model year with enhanced safety equipment, addressing previous concerns about the New Zealand specification while maintaining its $29,990 launch offer price.

The compact electric vehicle now features side and curtain airbags, bringing the total airbag count to six. A split folding rear seat and integrated Apple CarPlay are also now standard across the range.

When the Dongfeng Box first launched in New Zealand, it lacked the side and curtain airbags fitted to the European-specification model that achieved a three-star Euro NCAP rating. AutoTalk broke the story about the differing safety specifications between markets.

Both ANCAP and NZTA declined to extend the European rating to the New Zealand car, with NZTA taking the unusual step of labelling it “unrated” on its RightCar website.

Enhanced specification aims for improved safety rating

Armstrong’s Distribution will be hoping the updated model picks up a five-star Vehicle Safety Risk Rating, similar to the Dongfeng Vigo and 007 models. This rating differs from an ANCAP assessment as it is based purely on specification and the safety performance of similar vehicles.

“The BOX has debuted to great reviews which have praised its all-round suitability for urban commuters looking for a stylish, efficient and competitively priced fully electric vehicle with outstanding features, impressive technology and great range,” says Simon Rutherford, chief executive of Armstrong’s Distribution Limited.

The MY26 Box retains its 317km WLTP range and existing features including a 12-inch touchscreen, heated and ventilated front seats, power driver’s seat, wireless phone charging, 360-degree camera, adaptive cruise control and automatic parking.

Launch pricing extended with increased supply

While the Box maintains its $29,990 launch offer for now, this will return to the standard price of $32,990 at the end of May. Rutherford says the company has negotiated additional stock and accelerated supply from Dongfeng to meet demand.

“As part of the new MY26 upgrades, we have been able to negotiate extra stock and also accelerate supply from Dongfeng. This means there will be a greater number of new BOX available even sooner for Kiwi motorists,” he says.

The updated model also gains three steering profiles, new Electric Green paint with white roof option, and maintains the existing warranty package of six years or 200,000km for the vehicle and eight years or 200,000km for the battery.

The Dongfeng range is available through dealerships in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Hamilton and Tauranga, with the Vigo SUV priced from $37,990 and the 007 fastback coupe from $54,990.