The SWM G01FF 1.5T, launched in May 2019, represents SWM Motor’s entry into the compact SUV segment. SWM, originally an Italian motorcycle manufacturer, was revived by the Chinese Shineray Group and began producing automobiles in China. The G01FF is a five-seater, five-door SUV positioned as a mainstream offering within the brand’s lineup, aiming to provide a balance of practicality, features, and affordability. It’s built on a dedicated SUV platform and designed primarily for the Chinese market, though export ambitions have been expressed. This specific 1.5T variant, producing 156 horsepower, served as a key engine option, offering a step up in performance from potential base models while remaining competitive in price.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | SWM |
| Model | G01FF |
| Generation | G01FF |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5T (156 Hp) |
| Start of production | May, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (WLTC) | 7.2 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (US mpg) | 32.7 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (UK mpg) | 39.2 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (km/l) | 13.9 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | China VI |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-power ratio (alternative) | 102.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.2 kg/Nm |
| Weight-to-torque ratio (alternative) | 139.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 156 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 104.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 212 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque (lb.-ft.) | 156.36 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | SWD15T |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 |
| Engine displacement (cu. in.) | 91.41 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 |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System |
| Kerb Weight | 1520 kg |
| Kerb Weight (lbs.) | 3351.03 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 789 l |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum (cu. ft.) | 27.86 cu. ft. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1725 l |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum (cu. ft.) | 60.92 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l |
| Fuel tank capacity (US gal) | 13.74 US gal |
| Fuel tank capacity (UK gal) | 11.44 UK gal |
| Length | 4670 mm |
| Length (in.) | 183.86 in. |
| Width | 1855 mm |
| Width (in.) | 73.03 in. |
| Height | 1725 mm |
| Height (in.) | 67.91 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2750 mm |
| Wheelbase (in.) | 108.27 in. |
| Front track | 1575 mm |
| Front track (in.) | 62.01 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1575 mm |
| Rear (Back) track (in.) | 62.01 in. |
| Front overhang | 1024 mm |
| Front overhang (in.) | 40.31 in. |
| Rear overhang | 896 mm |
| Rear overhang (in.) | 35.28 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 | 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 SWM G01FF 1.5T is powered by the SWD15T engine, a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The addition of a turbocharger and intercooler allows for increased power output from a relatively small displacement engine. The engine produces 156 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 212 Nm (156.36 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine also incorporates a Start & Stop system to improve fuel efficiency. The G01FF 1.5T is equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission, directing power to the front wheels. While an automatic transmission was offered on other G01FF variants, the 1.5T was primarily available with the manual, catering to drivers seeking more control and potentially better fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5T engine provides adequate performance for everyday driving. While not exceptionally quick, the turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power during acceleration. The 6-speed manual transmission allows drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to potential lower-powered engine options, the 1.5T offers a more responsive and engaging driving experience. However, it doesn’t match the performance of larger displacement engines available in other SUVs. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides predictable handling, but lacks the all-weather capability of an all-wheel-drive system. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance between fuel efficiency and acceleration, prioritizing usability over outright speed.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The SWM G01FF 1.5T typically came equipped with standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a basic audio system, and ABS. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and a rearview camera. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for leatherette in higher trims. The dashboard layout is functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, automatic climate control, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) depending on the specific market and trim level.
Chassis & Braking
The G01FF utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The suspension is tuned for a balance between comfort and handling, prioritizing ride quality over sporty performance. Steering is rack and pinion with electric power assistance. The vehicle rides on 17-inch wheels with 225/65 R17 tires.
Market Reception & Comparison
The SWM G01FF 1.5T was generally well-received in the Chinese market as a practical and affordable SUV. Critics noted its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and decent fuel economy. However, some reviewers pointed out the relatively basic interior materials and the lack of brand recognition compared to established competitors. Compared to other trims in the G01FF lineup, the 1.5T offered a good balance of performance and price. It was more powerful and engaging to drive than the base engine options, but less expensive than the higher-powered variants. Fuel economy was comparable to other 1.5-liter turbocharged SUVs in its class.
Legacy
The SWM G01FF 1.5T represents an early effort by SWM Motor to establish itself in the competitive Chinese SUV market. While long-term reliability data is still emerging, the 1.5T engine has proven to be generally reliable in other SWM models. On the used car market, the G01FF 1.5T offers a relatively affordable entry point into the compact SUV segment. Its simple mechanicals and readily available parts make it a potentially attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The vehicle’s success, or lack thereof, will contribute to SWM’s overall brand image and future product development strategies.
