The Forthing T5 1.8T, produced between September 2018 and July 2019, represents an early foray by Forthing Auto into the competitive Compact Utility Vehicle (CUV) segment. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the T5 lineup, this variant aimed to balance performance and fuel efficiency for Chinese consumers. The T5 itself was a significant model for Forthing, representing a move towards more modern SUV designs and technologies. It was built on a dedicated platform intended to provide a comfortable and practical driving experience. This specific 1.8T engine configuration was a key component of Forthing’s strategy to offer a compelling alternative to established domestic and international brands.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Forthing |
| Model | T5 |
| Generation | T5 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8T (165 Hp) |
| Start of production | September, 2018 |
| End of production | July, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | CUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.7 l/100 km (24.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | China V |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 165 Hp @ 4500-5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 91.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 260 Nm @ 1500-4000 rpm (191.77 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | DFMB18T-I |
| Engine displacement | 1796 cm3 (109.6 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System |
| Kerb Weight | 1550 kg (3417.17 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 515 l (18.19 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal) |
| Length | 4550 mm (179.13 in.) |
| Width | 1825 mm (71.85 in.) |
| Height | 1725 mm (67.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2720 mm (107.09 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 215/55 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Forthing T5 1.8T is the DFMB18T-I engine, a 1.8-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a single turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output. The 11:1 compression ratio is fairly standard for a turbocharged engine of this era, balancing efficiency and performance. The engine produces 165 horsepower at 4500-5000 rpm and 260 Nm (191.77 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500-4000 rpm. This broad torque curve is a characteristic of turbocharged engines, providing good responsiveness in everyday driving situations. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. The T5 1.8T was equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission, offering drivers direct control over gear selection. A Start & Stop system was included to improve fuel economy in urban environments.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.8T engine, paired with the 6-speed manual transmission, provided a reasonably engaging driving experience. While not a performance-oriented variant, the turbocharger provided a noticeable boost in acceleration when needed. The gear ratios were tuned for a balance between fuel efficiency and responsiveness. Compared to potential lower-powered engine options (if available), the 1.8T offered significantly more punch, making highway merging and overtaking easier. However, it wouldn’t match the performance of a larger displacement engine. The front-wheel-drive configuration offered predictable handling, but could exhibit some torque steer under hard acceleration. The suspension, tuned for comfort, absorbed bumps well, but didn’t offer the sporty handling of more performance-focused CUVs.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Forthing T5 1.8T typically came with a standard equipment list that included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system, and ABS. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for leather upgrades. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use. Available optional extras could include a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and alloy wheels. The specific trim level determined the availability of these features, with higher trims offering more luxurious appointments.
Chassis & Braking
The T5 1.8T utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear. This setup aimed to provide a comfortable ride while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. The front brakes were ventilated discs, providing good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering system employed a rack and pinion setup, offering precise and responsive steering feel. The vehicle rode on 215/55 R18 tires, mounted on 18-inch alloy wheels.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Forthing T5 1.8T was generally well-received in the Chinese market as a practical and affordable CUV. Critics praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and relatively fuel-efficient engine. However, some reviewers noted that the interior materials weren’t as premium as those found in some competing models. Compared to other trims in the T5 lineup, the 1.8T offered a good balance between performance and price. It was positioned above base models with smaller engines, but below potentially higher-performance variants (if offered). Fuel economy figures of 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg) were competitive for its class.
Legacy
The Forthing T5 1.8T, while a relatively short-lived model, played a role in establishing Forthing Auto as a contender in the Chinese CUV market. The DFMB18T-I engine proved to be a reliable unit, and examples continue to appear on the used car market today. Long-term reliability reports suggest that the engine is generally durable, with proper maintenance. The T5 1.8T represents an interesting example of a Chinese automaker’s attempt to create a competitive and modern CUV for the domestic market, offering a blend of practicality, efficiency, and affordability.
