The Hawtai Boliger 1.8 T (160 Hp) 4WD Automatic was a compact SUV produced by the Chinese manufacturer Hawtai Motor Group between 2014 and 2017. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Boliger lineup, it aimed to provide a blend of practicality, comfort, and all-weather capability to Chinese consumers. The Boliger, Hawtai’s primary SUV offering, was intended to compete with established international brands in the rapidly growing Chinese SUV market. This particular variant, featuring a turbocharged 1.8-liter engine paired with a four-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, represented a significant step up in performance and features compared to the base models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hawtai |
| Model | Boliger |
| Generation | Boliger |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 T (160 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | Euro IV |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.1 kg/Hp, 90.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.2 kg/Nm, 121.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 89.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 215 Nm @ 2100-4500 rpm (158.58 lb.-ft. @ 2100-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 18K4G |
| Engine displacement | 1796 cm3 (109.6 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 80.01 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89.3 mm (3.52 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.9 l (5.18 US qt | 4.31 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1770 kg (3902.18 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2255 kg (4971.42 lbs.) |
| Max load | 485 kg (1069.24 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 690 l (24.37 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2100 l (74.16 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4618 mm (181.81 in.) |
| Width | 1858 mm (73.15 in.) |
| Height | 1753 mm (69.02 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2620 mm (103.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1540 mm (60.63 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1540 mm (60.63 in.) |
| Front overhang | 941 mm (37.05 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1057 mm (41.61 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 172 mm (6.77 in.) |
| Approach angle | 27° |
| Departure angle | 26° |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic 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 | 225/70 R16; 235/55 R18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Boliger 1.8 T was the 18K4G engine, a 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler. This engine utilized multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its respectable power output of 160 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 215 Nm (158.58 lb-ft) of torque available between 2100 and 4500 rpm. The turbocharger was crucial in boosting performance, providing increased air intake to the engine. The engine’s 9.2:1 compression ratio was a compromise between efficiency and performance. Paired with this engine was a four-speed automatic transmission, a relatively conventional choice for the time, prioritizing simplicity and cost-effectiveness over the more advanced transmissions found in some competitors. While not offering the smoothness or efficiency of newer automatic gearboxes, it provided adequate performance for everyday driving.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.8T 4WD Automatic Boliger offered a noticeable step up in performance compared to the lower-powered, naturally aspirated versions. The turbocharger provided a surge of power during acceleration, making overtaking and merging onto highways easier. However, the four-speed automatic transmission limited the engine’s ability to stay in its optimal power band, and the gear ratios weren’t particularly optimized for fuel economy. The all-wheel-drive system provided enhanced traction in inclement weather conditions, making it a practical choice for regions experiencing snow or rain. The ride quality was generally comfortable, thanks to the independent suspension setup, but handling wasn’t particularly sporty. The steering felt somewhat vague, and body roll was noticeable during cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.8 T 4WD Automatic trim typically included features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels offered additional features like leather upholstery, a sunroof, and a more advanced infotainment system. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The interior design was functional and relatively simple, with a focus on durability rather than luxury. The dashboard layout was straightforward, with easy-to-use controls. The Boliger aimed to provide a comfortable and practical interior for families.
Chassis & Braking
The Boliger utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear, providing a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The all-wheel-drive system employed a viscous coupling to distribute torque between the front and rear axles, providing automatic all-wheel drive engagement when needed. The vehicle’s curb weight of 1770 kg (3902.18 lbs) contributed to its somewhat ponderous handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hawtai Boliger 1.8 T 4WD Automatic was generally well-received in the Chinese market as a practical and affordable SUV. Critics praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and all-weather capability. However, the four-speed automatic transmission and somewhat unrefined engine were points of criticism. Compared to other SUVs in its class, such as the Geely Emgrand X7 or the Chery Tiggo 5, the Boliger offered a competitive level of equipment and performance at a reasonable price point. Fuel economy was average for the segment, with the Euro IV emission standard indicating a focus on meeting regulatory requirements rather than achieving exceptional efficiency.
Legacy
The Hawtai Boliger 1.8 T 4WD Automatic, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, played a role in establishing Hawtai as a player in the Chinese SUV market. The 18K4G engine proved to be reasonably reliable, although long-term durability can vary depending on maintenance and driving conditions. On the used car market, these Boligers are typically available at affordable prices, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. However, potential buyers should be aware of the limitations of the four-speed automatic transmission and the potential for age-related wear and tear on components like the turbocharger and suspension.
