The SWM G01 2.0L (143 Hp) is a compact SUV produced by the Italian-owned, Chinese manufacturer SWM Motors, beginning with the 2021 model year. Positioned as a mainstream offering within the G01 range, it represents SWM’s entry into the competitive compact SUV segment. The G01 is built upon a dedicated SUV platform and aimed primarily at the Chinese domestic market, with limited export sales. This variant, equipped with the 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine and a five-speed manual transmission, served as a core model in the lineup, offering a balance between affordability and practicality.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | SWM |
| Model | G01 |
| Generation | G01 |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0L (143 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (WLTC) | 7.7 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (US mpg) | 30.5 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (UK mpg) | 36.7 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (km/l) | 13 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | China VI |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.6 kg/Hp, 94.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8 kg/Nm, 125 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 143 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 4000 rpm (140.14 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | SWE20 |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System |
| Kerb Weight | 1520 kg (3351.03 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 789 l (27.86 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1725 l (60.92 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Length | 4610 mm (181.5 in) |
| Width | 1855 mm (73.03 in) |
| Height | 1740 mm (68.5 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2750 mm (108.27 in) |
| Front track | 1575 mm (62.01 in) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1575 mm (62.01 in) |
| Front overhang | 968 mm (38.11 in) |
| Rear overhang | 892 mm (35.12 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 | 5 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 SWM G01 2.0L utilizes the SWE20 engine, a naturally aspirated 1.998-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine employs a multi-port fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to reasonable efficiency and responsiveness for its class. The engine produces 143 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 190 Nm (140.14 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing direct control over the engine’s power delivery. The engine also incorporates a Start & Stop system to improve fuel economy during urban driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0L manual G01 offers a fairly typical driving experience for a compact SUV. The 143 hp engine provides adequate power for everyday driving, but acceleration is not particularly brisk. The five-speed manual transmission allows for precise gear selection, but the gear ratios are tuned more for fuel efficiency than outright performance. Compared to potentially available higher-output engine options (if offered in other G01 trims), this variant prioritizes fuel economy and ease of use over sporty driving dynamics. The front-wheel-drive configuration contributes to predictable handling, although it lacks the all-weather capability of an all-wheel-drive system.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The G01 2.0L typically came equipped with a standard suite of features including air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with plastic trim accents. Higher trim levels, if selected, could add features such as a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and alloy wheels. Safety features typically included ABS, airbags, and basic stability control systems. The specific standard equipment could vary slightly depending on regional specifications.
Chassis & Braking
The SWM G01 utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The steering system is a rack and pinion setup with electric power steering. The vehicle rides on 17-inch wheels with 225/65 R17 tires. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort and stability rather than sporty handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The SWM G01 2.0L was primarily targeted at the Chinese market, where it competed with a wide range of domestic and international compact SUVs. Reviews within China generally praised the G01 for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and relatively affordable price point. However, some critics noted the engine’s lack of refinement and the somewhat basic interior materials. Compared to other trims in the G01 lineup, the 2.0L manual variant represented the entry-level option, offering a more accessible price point but sacrificing some performance and features. Fuel economy was generally considered competitive within its segment.
Legacy
The SWM G01 2.0L, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, played an important role in establishing SWM Motors as a player in the Chinese automotive market. The SWE20 engine, while not known for exceptional performance, has proven to be reasonably reliable in service. On the used car market, the G01 2.0L represents a relatively affordable and practical option for buyers seeking a compact SUV. Its simplicity and relatively low maintenance costs make it an attractive choice for budget-conscious consumers. The long-term durability of the powertrain remains a key factor for potential buyers in the used market.
