The Maxus D60 1.5T, equipped with a 169 horsepower turbocharged engine and a dual-clutch transmission (DCT), represents a significant offering in the increasingly competitive compact SUV segment. Introduced in August 2019, the D60 aimed to provide a modern, feature-rich vehicle at a competitive price point, primarily targeting the Chinese domestic market. While the Maxus brand is relatively new to many Western consumers, it’s a subsidiary of SAIC Motor, one of China’s largest automotive manufacturers. This particular variant, the 1.5T DCT, occupied a mid-range position within the D60 lineup, offering a balance between performance, fuel efficiency, and affordability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Maxus |
| Model | D60 |
| Generation | D60 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5T (169 Hp) DCT |
| Start of production | August, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg, 39.2 UK mpg, 13.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | China VI |
| Power | 169 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 113.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1700-4400 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1700-4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 15E4E |
| Engine displacement | 1490 cm3 (90.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4720 mm (185.83 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Height | 1736 mm (68.35 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2760 mm (108.66 in.) |
| 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 | 7 gears, automatic transmission DCT |
| 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 |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/65 R17; 225/55 R18; 235/50 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18; 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the D60 1.5T is the 15E4E engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is coupled with a single turbocharger and intercooler to boost power output. The direct injection system allows for precise fuel delivery, improving both efficiency and performance. The engine produces 169 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque between 1700 and 4400 rpm. This broad torque curve is a key characteristic, providing good responsiveness in everyday driving situations. The engine is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). DCTs are known for their quick and smooth gear changes, offering a more engaging driving experience compared to traditional automatic transmissions. The DCT in the D60 contributes to improved fuel economy and acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The D60 1.5T DCT delivers a reasonably refined driving experience. The 169 hp engine provides adequate power for typical urban and highway driving. While not a performance-oriented SUV, the turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in acceleration when needed. The DCT transmission shifts quickly and smoothly, contributing to a more dynamic feel. Compared to lower-powered versions of the D60, the 1.5T offers a more confident and capable driving experience, particularly when fully loaded or tackling inclines. However, it doesn’t quite match the performance of potential future higher-output variants. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides predictable handling, but it lacks the all-weather capability of an all-wheel-drive system.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The D60 1.5T DCT typically came equipped with a range of standard features, including air conditioning, power windows and locks, a touchscreen infotainment system, and basic safety features like ABS and airbags. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as leather upholstery, a sunroof, a rearview camera, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Interior materials were generally of acceptable quality for the price point, with a focus on practicality and durability. The dashboard layout was modern and functional, with a clear instrument cluster and intuitive controls.
Chassis & Braking
The D60 utilizes a McPherson strut suspension setup at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This configuration provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The steering is electrically assisted, providing light and precise control. Tire sizes varied depending on the trim level, ranging from 215/65 R17 to 235/50 R19. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort, but the D60 still offers reasonably stable handling in corners.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Maxus D60 1.5T DCT was generally well-received in the Chinese market, offering a compelling combination of features, performance, and price. Critics praised its modern design, comfortable interior, and efficient engine. However, some reviewers noted that the interior materials could be improved and that the ride quality could be slightly firmer. Compared to other compact SUVs in the Chinese market, the D60 1.5T offered a competitive value proposition. Its fuel economy of around 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg) was comparable to other similarly sized and powered SUVs.
Legacy
The Maxus D60 1.5T DCT represents a significant step forward for the Maxus brand, demonstrating its ability to produce modern and competitive SUVs. While its long-term reliability is still being assessed, the 15E4E engine and DCT transmission have proven to be relatively reliable in other applications. As the D60 ages, it is likely to become an increasingly popular choice in the used car market, offering a practical and affordable option for buyers seeking a compact SUV. The D60 helped establish Maxus as a viable contender in the crowded SUV segment and paved the way for future models.
