The Qoros 3 Sedan 1.6 (156 Hp) DCT represents a significant entry for the Qoros brand, a joint venture between Chery Automobile and Israel Corporation, into the competitive compact sedan market. Introduced in November 2013 and continuing production through 2020, this variant played a crucial role in establishing Qoros as a contender focused on European-inspired design and technology. It was positioned as a mid-range offering within the 3 Sedan lineup, aiming to balance performance, fuel efficiency, and modern features. The Qoros 3 Sedan is built on the Qoros’ own platform.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Qoros |
| Model | 3 |
| Generation | 3 Sedan |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (156 Hp) DCT |
| Start of production | November, 2013 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 6.2 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 37.9 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 45.6 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 16.1 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 217 km/h |
| Maximum speed | 134.84 mph |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 109.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 161.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 156 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 97.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 2500-4500 rpm |
| Torque | 169.64 lb.-ft. @ 2500-4500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | SQRE4T16 |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 |
| Engine displacement | 97.52 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, D-VVT |
| Kerb Weight | 1425 kg |
| Kerb Weight | 3141.59 lbs |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 450 l |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 15.89 cu. ft. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 900 l |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 31.78 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l |
| Fuel tank capacity | 14.53 US gal |
| Fuel tank capacity | 12.1 UK gal |
| Length | 4627 mm |
| Length | 182.17 in. |
| Width | 1839 mm |
| Width | 72.4 in. |
| Height | 1445 mm |
| Height | 56.89 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2702 mm |
| Wheelbase | 106.38 in. |
| Front track | 1579 mm |
| Front track | 62.17 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1585 mm |
| Rear (Back) track | 62.4 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.5 m |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 37.73 ft. |
| 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 | 6 gears, automatic transmission DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| 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 | 225/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Qoros 3 Sedan 1.6 DCT lies the SQRE4T16 engine, a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes multi-point fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with dynamic valve timing (D-VVT) on both intake and exhaust sides. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, boosts power output to 156 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 230 Nm (169.64 lb-ft) of torque between 2500 and 4500 rpm. The engine’s design prioritizes a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle.
The “DCT” in the name refers to the 6-speed dual-clutch transmission. This transmission type offers quicker and smoother gear changes compared to a traditional automatic, contributing to a more engaging driving experience. The DCT’s programming is tuned for everyday usability, prioritizing comfort and fuel economy over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter turbo engine paired with the 6-speed DCT provides adequate performance for daily commuting and highway driving. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 9 seconds, and the car has a top speed of 217 km/h (134.84 mph). While not a sports sedan, the turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power during acceleration, making overtaking maneuvers relatively effortless. The DCT transmission shifts smoothly and responsively in normal driving conditions. Compared to the base engine options, the 1.6 DCT offers a significant performance upgrade. However, it doesn’t match the responsiveness or power of higher-spec engines available in other markets.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Qoros 3 Sedan 1.6 DCT typically came equipped with a range of standard features, reflecting its mid-range positioning. These included air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels offered options such as leather upholstery, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and automatic climate control. Interior materials were generally of good quality for the price point, with a focus on creating a comfortable and modern cabin environment.
Chassis & Braking
The Qoros 3 Sedan utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension setup at the front and a semi-independent coil spring suspension at the rear. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. Electric power steering is standard, offering light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Qoros 3 Sedan 1.6 DCT was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its European-inspired design, comfortable ride, and well-equipped interior. However, some reviewers noted that the engine, while adequate, lacked the refinement and power of some competitors. Fuel economy was a strong point, with the car achieving around 37.9 US mpg in combined driving. Compared to other compact sedans in its class, the Qoros 3 offered a compelling value proposition, particularly in terms of features and build quality.
Legacy
The Qoros 3 Sedan 1.6 DCT, while not a massive sales success globally, played a vital role in establishing the Qoros brand and demonstrating its commitment to building modern, well-equipped vehicles. The SQRE4T16 engine and DCT transmission proved to be relatively reliable, with few widespread issues reported. On the used car market, these models are generally considered to be a good value, offering a comfortable and well-equipped driving experience at an affordable price. However, potential buyers should be aware of the brand’s limited service network in some regions.
