The Luxgen U7 (facelift 2014) 2.2i ECO HYPER, produced from July 2015, represents a mid-range offering within the U7 SUV lineup. Positioned as a balance between affordability and performance, this variant aimed to provide a more engaging driving experience than the base models while remaining accessible to a broader customer base. The U7 itself was Luxgen’s entry into the increasingly competitive mid-size SUV segment, primarily targeted towards the Taiwanese market and select export regions. This specific 2.2i ECO HYPER trim distinguished itself through its turbocharged engine and Aisin-sourced six-speed automatic transmission, a combination designed to deliver both respectable power and reasonable fuel efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Luxgen |
| Model | U7 |
| Generation | U7 (facelift 2014) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2i ECO HYPER (202 Hp) AISIN |
| Start of production | July, 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.5-8.6 l/100 km (27.7 – 27.4 US mpg, 33.2 – 32.8 UK mpg, 11.8 – 11.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp, 111 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm, 161.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 202 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 91.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 294 Nm @ 2400-4000 rpm (216.84 lb.-ft. @ 2400-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 2198 cm3 (134.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 94.6 mm (3.72 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1820-1850 kg (4012.41 – 4078.55 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Length | 4820 mm (189.76 in.) |
| Width | 1935 mm (76.18 in.) |
| Height | 1715-1730 mm (67.52 – 68.11 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2910 mm (114.57 in.) |
| Front track | 1610 mm (63.39 in.) |
| Rear track | 1640 mm (64.57 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.0 m (39.37 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive, Internal Combustion engine |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission AISIN |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/55 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the U7 2.2i ECO HYPER is the 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, utilizing a turbocharger and intercooler, was designed to provide a balance of power and efficiency. The engine code is not widely publicized, but it shares similarities with engines found in other Luxgen and potentially Nissan vehicles due to the brand’s historical partnerships. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for improved performance. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-point fuel injection system. The Aisin six-speed automatic transmission was chosen for its reputation for smoothness and reliability. This transmission features adaptive shift logic, adjusting gear changes based on driving conditions and driver input. The gear ratios are tuned to provide adequate acceleration while maintaining reasonable fuel economy at highway speeds.
Driving Characteristics
The 202 horsepower and 294 Nm (216.84 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 2.2i ECO HYPER powertrain provide a noticeable step up in performance compared to the lower-powered U7 variants. Acceleration is brisk, and the turbocharger provides a readily available boost in power for overtaking maneuvers. The Aisin transmission shifts smoothly, although it isn’t particularly sporty. Compared to a manual transmission equipped U7, the automatic offers less driver engagement but greater convenience, particularly in urban driving conditions. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides predictable handling, but it can exhibit some torque steer under hard acceleration. The weight of the vehicle, ranging from 1820-1850 kg, is noticeable, impacting overall agility.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.2i ECO HYPER trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a multi-function steering wheel, and a basic audio system. Higher-end features, often available as options, included leather upholstery, a sunroof, a navigation system, and parking sensors. The interior design was generally functional and comfortable, though not particularly luxurious. The dashboard layout was straightforward, with easy-to-use controls. Safety features included ABS, airbags, and stability control.
Chassis & Braking
The U7 utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a torsion beam suspension in the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. The front brakes are ventilated discs, providing ample stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The electric power steering offers light and precise steering feel. The 235/55 R18 tires provide adequate grip in most driving conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Luxgen U7 2.2i ECO HYPER received mixed reviews. Critics generally praised the engine’s performance and the smoothness of the Aisin transmission. However, some reviewers noted the vehicle’s relatively bland styling and interior. Compared to other SUVs in its class, the U7 offered a competitive price point but lacked the brand recognition and refinement of established competitors. Fuel economy was considered average for a vehicle of its size and class, falling in the range of 8.5-8.6 l/100 km. Reliability reports are limited due to the relatively low sales volume of the U7 outside of Taiwan.
Legacy
The Luxgen U7, including the 2.2i ECO HYPER variant, represents an interesting chapter in the development of the Taiwanese automotive industry. While Luxgen ultimately struggled to gain significant market share internationally, the U7 demonstrated the brand’s ambition to produce competitive SUVs. On the used car market, the U7 2.2i ECO HYPER can be found at relatively affordable prices. The Aisin transmission is generally considered a strong point, contributing to the vehicle’s long-term reliability. However, potential buyers should be aware of the limited availability of spare parts and the lack of a widespread dealer network.
