The Brilliance V3 1.5, produced from 2015 onwards, represents Brilliance Auto’s entry into the increasingly competitive compact crossover segment. Positioned as an affordable and practical vehicle, the V3 aimed to capture market share in China and select export markets. This specific 1.5-liter turbocharged variant, producing 150 horsepower, served as a mid-range offering within the V3 lineup, slotting between base models and potentially higher-trim levels with different engine options. The V3 is built on a dedicated crossover platform, representing Brilliance’s attempt to modernize its product portfolio and appeal to a broader customer base.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Brilliance |
| Model | V3 |
| Generation | V3 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 (150 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.3 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 32.2 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 38.7 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (km/l) | 13.7 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp |
| Hp/tonne | 111.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm |
| Nm/tonne | 163 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5500-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 100.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 2000-4500 rpm |
| Torque (lb.-ft.) | 162.26 lb.-ft. @ 2000-4500 rpm |
| Engine Model/Code | BM15TC |
| 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 |
| Kerb Weight | 1350 kg |
| Kerb Weight (lbs.) | 2976.24 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 1765 kg |
| Max. weight (lbs.) | 3891.16 lbs. |
| Max load | 415 kg |
| Max load (lbs.) | 914.92 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 455 l |
| Trunk (boot) space (cu. ft.) | 16.07 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 | 4200 mm |
| Length (in.) | 165.35 in. |
| Width | 1790 mm |
| Width (in.) | 70.47 in. |
| Height | 1600 mm |
| Height (in.) | 62.99 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2570 mm |
| Wheelbase (in.) | 101.18 in. |
| Front track | 1540 mm |
| Front track (in.) | 60.63 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1500 mm |
| Rear (Back) track (in.) | 59.06 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 170 mm |
| Ride height (in.) | 6.69 in. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| 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 | 215/55 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Brilliance V3 1.5 utilizes the BM15TC engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler. This engine is a key component of the V3’s appeal, offering a balance of fuel efficiency and adequate performance. The engine employs multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its responsiveness. The turbocharger is designed to mitigate turbo lag and provide a broader torque curve. The 5-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this trim, providing direct control over the engine’s power. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for a blend of acceleration and fuel economy, prioritizing everyday drivability over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The V3 1.5 with the manual transmission delivers a reasonably engaging driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 9.9 seconds, which is competitive within its class. The turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power during acceleration, but the engine doesn’t feel overly stressed at higher speeds. The 5-speed manual gearbox is relatively smooth, although shift quality isn’t as refined as some European or Japanese competitors. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road reasonably well. However, this does result in some body roll during cornering. Overall, the V3 1.5 offers a practical and comfortable driving experience suitable for urban commuting and highway cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Brilliance V3 1.5 typically came equipped with standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and airbags. Higher trim levels offered additional features like alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and a sunroof. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leatherette in higher trims. The dashboard layout is functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over aesthetic flair.
Chassis & Braking
The V3 utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a torsion beam suspension in the rear. The front brakes are ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The steering is rack and pinion with electric power steering assistance, offering a light and responsive feel. The tires are typically 215/55 R18, providing a good balance of grip and ride comfort. The suspension setup is geared towards providing a comfortable ride rather than sporty handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Brilliance V3 1.5 received mixed reviews from automotive critics. It was generally praised for its affordability, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency. However, it was also criticized for its relatively basic interior materials, unrefined engine, and lack of advanced features compared to some competitors. Compared to other crossovers in its class, the V3 1.5 offered a competitive price point but lacked the brand recognition and refinement of established players. Fuel economy was a strong point, achieving around 32.2 US mpg in combined driving conditions. Reliability reports are limited, but the BM15TC engine appears to be reasonably durable with proper maintenance.
Legacy
The Brilliance V3 1.5 represents an important step in Brilliance Auto’s development as a modern automaker. While not a groundbreaking vehicle, it provided a competitive offering in the rapidly growing compact crossover segment. On the used car market, the V3 1.5 is generally considered an affordable and practical option, particularly for buyers seeking a budget-friendly crossover. The BM15TC engine has proven to be relatively reliable, although regular maintenance is essential to ensure long-term durability. The V3’s legacy lies in its contribution to Brilliance’s expansion and its role as an accessible entry point into the crossover market.
