The Qoros 5 1.6 (156 Hp) was a compact SUV produced by the Chinese manufacturer Qoros Auto from 2016 to 2021. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Qoros 5 lineup, it aimed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency, performance, and modern features in a competitive segment. The Qoros 5 itself was a significant model for the brand, representing an attempt to establish a foothold in the global automotive market with vehicles designed to European standards. It was built on the Qoros 5 platform, sharing components with other models in the Qoros range.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Qoros |
| Model | 5 |
| Generation | 5 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (156 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.4 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 31.8 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 38.2 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (km/l) | 13.5 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.9 kg/Hp, 101.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.3 kg/Nm, 136.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 156 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 97.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 210 Nm @ 1750-5000 rpm (154.89 lb.-ft. @ 1750-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | SQRE4T16 |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (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 | 1540 kg (3395.12 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 450 l (15.89 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1500 l (52.97 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4600 mm (181.1 in) |
| Width | 1869 mm (73.58 in) |
| Height | 1676 mm (65.98 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2710 mm (106.69 in) |
| Front track | 1619 mm (63.74 in) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1607 mm (63.27 in) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 240 mm (9.45 in) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.7 m (38.39 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, manual 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 |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Qoros 5 1.6 utilized the SQRE4T16 engine, a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine was a key component of Qoros’s strategy to offer modern, efficient powertrains. The engine featured 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, boosted power output to 156 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 210 Nm (155 lb-ft) of torque available from 1750 to 5000 rpm. This engine was paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, providing drivers with direct control over gear selection. The engine’s transverse mounting and front-wheel-drive configuration were typical for compact SUVs of this era.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter turbocharged engine in the Qoros 5 provided adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 10.2 seconds, and the vehicle had a top speed of 195 km/h (121 mph). While not exceptionally quick, the turbocharger provided a noticeable boost in power during acceleration, making overtaking maneuvers reasonably comfortable. The 6-speed manual transmission offered precise shifts, but the gear ratios were tuned more for fuel efficiency than outright performance. Compared to potential higher-output engine options (had they been available), this variant prioritized fuel economy and a smoother driving experience over sporty handling. The front-wheel-drive setup offered predictable handling characteristics, but lacked the all-weather capability of an all-wheel-drive system.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Qoros 5 1.6 typically came equipped with a range of standard features designed to appeal to family buyers. These included air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels offered upgrades such as a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, leather upholstery, automatic climate control, and parking sensors. Interior materials were generally of good quality for the price point, and the cabin offered a reasonable amount of space for passengers and cargo. Optional extras included a sunroof, alloy wheels, and a rear-view camera.
Chassis & Braking
The Qoros 5 featured an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This suspension setup provided a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. The vehicle was equipped with ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for its weight class. Electric power steering offered light and precise steering feel. The chassis was designed to balance ride comfort with handling stability, prioritizing a smooth and predictable driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Qoros 5 1.6 received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While praised for its modern design, good build quality, and competitive pricing, it was sometimes criticized for its lack of brand recognition and its relatively unremarkable driving dynamics. Fuel economy was generally considered to be good, with combined fuel consumption figures around 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg). Compared to other compact SUVs in its class, the Qoros 5 1.6 offered a compelling value proposition, but it lacked the established reputation and extensive dealer network of more established brands.
Legacy
The Qoros 5 1.6, while not a massive sales success, played a role in establishing Qoros as a legitimate automotive manufacturer. The SQRE4T16 engine proved to be a relatively reliable unit, and examples of the Qoros 5 1.6 continue to appear on the used car market. Long-term reliability reports suggest that the engine and transmission are generally durable, but routine maintenance is essential to prevent issues. The Qoros 5 1.6 represents an interesting chapter in the history of Chinese automotive manufacturing, showcasing the country’s growing capabilities in vehicle design and engineering.
