The Geely Coolray (facelift 2023) 1.5 TD, producing 172 horsepower, represents a significant offering in the increasingly competitive compact SUV segment. Introduced in 2023 as a refreshed version of the original Coolray, this variant is primarily targeted towards the Asian market, particularly China, where Geely has established a strong presence. The facelift brought updated styling, enhanced technology, and refined powertrain options, aiming to appeal to a younger demographic seeking a stylish and technologically advanced vehicle. This specific 1.5-liter turbocharged engine paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) positions itself as a mid-range offering within the Coolray lineup, balancing performance and fuel efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Geely |
| Model | Coolray |
| Generation | Coolray (facelift 2023) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 TD (172 Hp) DCT |
| Start of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.2 sec |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 B |
| Power | 172 Hp |
| Power per litre | 116.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 290 Nm @ 2000-3500 rpm (213.89 lb.-ft. @ 2000-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | JLH-3G15TD |
| Engine displacement | 1477 cm3 (90.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Length | 4380 mm (172.44 in.) |
| Width | 1810 mm (71.26 in.) |
| Height | 1615 mm (63.58 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2600 mm (102.36 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive, Internal Combustion engine (ICE) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/60 R17 96H; 215/55 R18 95V |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 17 ET45; 7J x 18 ET53 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Coolray 1.5 TD is the JLH-3G15TD engine, a 1.5-liter inline-three cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is coupled with a turbocharger and intercooler to boost power output. The three-cylinder configuration, while offering efficiency benefits, is inherently prone to vibrations, which Geely addresses through engine balancing technologies. The engine’s 290 Nm (213.89 lb.-ft.) of torque, available between 2000-3500 rpm, provides a broad powerband suitable for everyday driving. The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) is a key component, offering quick and smooth gear changes compared to a traditional automatic transmission. DCTs are known for their efficiency and responsiveness, contributing to both performance and fuel economy. The DCT’s programming is tuned for a balance between comfort and sportiness, with a tendency towards quicker shifts in sport mode.
Driving Characteristics
The 172 hp and 290 Nm of torque translate to a respectable 0-60 mph time of around 7.2 seconds. While not a sports car, the Coolray 1.5 TD offers sufficient acceleration for merging onto highways and overtaking maneuvers. The DCT contributes to a more engaging driving experience than a conventional automatic, providing quicker responses to throttle inputs. The suspension setup, featuring McPherson struts at the front and a torsion beam at the rear, prioritizes comfort over outright handling prowess. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments. Compared to potential lower-powered variants (if offered), the 1.5 TD provides a noticeable performance upgrade, while remaining more accessible than a potential higher-performance trim.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Coolray 1.5 TD (facelift 2023) typically comes well-equipped, even in its base trim levels. Standard features often include a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), automatic climate control, keyless entry, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels add features like leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Interior materials are generally of good quality for the price point, with a focus on modern design and functionality.
Chassis & Braking
The Coolray utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout. The front suspension employs independent McPherson struts, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. The rear suspension utilizes a torsion beam setup, which is a cost-effective solution that prioritizes space efficiency. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power. The inclusion of ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) enhances safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The steering system is an electric power steering (EPS) rack and pinion, offering light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Geely Coolray has been well-received in its primary markets, particularly in China, where it competes with other popular compact SUVs like the Haval Jolion and Changan CS75 Plus. Critics have praised the Coolray’s stylish design, modern interior, and competitive pricing. The 1.5 TD engine has been noted for its good balance of power and fuel efficiency. Compared to potential lower-powered engine options, the 1.5 TD offers a more engaging driving experience. Fuel economy figures of around 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg) are competitive within its class. Reliability reports are still emerging, but Geely has been steadily improving its quality control in recent years.
Legacy
The Geely Coolray, and specifically the 1.5 TD variant, represents a step forward for Geely in terms of design, technology, and overall quality. While long-term reliability data is still being gathered, the use of a modern turbocharged engine and a DCT transmission suggests a potentially durable powertrain. As Geely expands its global presence, the Coolray is likely to become a more familiar sight on roads outside of Asia. The 1.5 TD variant, with its balance of performance, efficiency, and features, is expected to remain a popular choice among buyers seeking a stylish and technologically advanced compact SUV.
