The Hawtai Boliger 1.8 T (160 Hp) Automatic was a compact crossover SUV produced by the Chinese manufacturer Hawtai Motor Group from 2014 to 2017. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Boliger lineup, it aimed to provide a balance of comfort, practicality, and affordability in the rapidly expanding Chinese automotive market. The Boliger, and this variant specifically, represented Hawtai’s attempt to compete with established international brands in the burgeoning SUV segment. It was based on a modified platform derived from earlier Mitsubishi designs, adapted for Hawtai’s specific needs and styling preferences.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hawtai |
| Model | Boliger |
| Generation | Boliger |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 T (160 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg, 33.2 UK mpg, 11.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 165 km/h (102.53 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro IV |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.7 kg/Hp, 93.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8 kg/Nm, 125.6 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 | 1712 kg (3774.31 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2170 kg (4784.03 lbs.) |
| Max load | 458 kg (1009.72 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° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| 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 Automatic was the 18K4G engine, a 1.8-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, while developed by Hawtai, shared significant lineage with Mitsubishi’s 4G63 engine family. It featured multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its relatively efficient operation. The turbocharger and intercooler were crucial components, boosting power output to 160 horsepower and 215 Nm (158.58 lb-ft) of torque. The engine’s torque curve was relatively flat, providing usable power across a broad RPM range. The engine was paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, a somewhat dated design by the mid-2010s, but one that prioritized cost-effectiveness over outright performance or fuel efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.8T Automatic Boliger offered a comfortable, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. The four-speed automatic transmission, while smooth in operation, lacked the responsiveness and efficiency of more modern transmissions with six or more gears. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 13.9 seconds, making it adequate for everyday driving but not particularly quick. The turbocharger provided a noticeable boost in power during acceleration, but the engine could feel somewhat strained at higher speeds. The front-wheel-drive configuration offered predictable handling, but lacked the all-weather capability of an all-wheel-drive system. Compared to other Boliger trims, such as those with manual transmissions, the automatic version sacrificed some performance and fuel economy for added convenience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.8 T Automatic trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels offered upgrades like alloy wheels, a sunroof, leather upholstery, and a more advanced infotainment system. Interior materials were generally of acceptable quality for the price point, but lacked the refinement of more established brands. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over aesthetic appeal. Optional extras included rear parking sensors, a navigation system, and upgraded sound systems.
Chassis & Braking
The Boliger 1.8 T Automatic featured an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear, providing a reasonably comfortable ride quality. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The ABS system provided enhanced braking performance and stability, particularly in emergency situations. The vehicle’s ride height of 172 mm (6.77 in) provided adequate ground clearance for navigating typical road conditions. Stabilizer bars were included both front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hawtai Boliger 1.8 T Automatic received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While praised for its spacious interior and relatively affordable price, it was often criticized for its dated transmission, unremarkable performance, and somewhat unrefined driving experience. Compared to competitors like the Geely Emgrand X7 and the Changan CS75, the Boliger offered a similar level of practicality but lacked the same level of sophistication. Fuel economy was average for its class, and reliability reports were limited due to the relatively short production run and limited export market.
Legacy
The Hawtai Boliger 1.8 T Automatic, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, played a role in the development of the Chinese automotive industry. It represented Hawtai’s ambition to compete in the increasingly competitive SUV segment. On the used car market, these vehicles are generally available at very affordable prices, but potential buyers should be aware of the potential for higher maintenance costs due to the age of the vehicle and the limited availability of spare parts. The 18K4G engine, while generally reliable, may require periodic maintenance to address issues such as oil leaks and turbocharger wear. Overall, the Boliger 1.8 T Automatic remains a relatively obscure vehicle, but one that offers a glimpse into the early stages of China’s automotive evolution.
