Technical Specifications
| Brand | DFSK |
| Model | 580 |
| Generation | 580 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 (150 Hp) CVT |
| Start of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg, 39.2 UK mpg, 13.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.1 kg/Hp, 99.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.9 kg/Nm, 145.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp |
| Power per litre | 100.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 220 Nm (162.26 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | SFG15T |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84.8 mm (3.34 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1510 kg (3328.98 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2035 kg (4486.41 lbs.) |
| Max load | 525 kg (1157.43 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 58 l (15.32 US gal | 12.76 UK gal) |
| Length | 4680 mm (184.25 in.) |
| Width | 1845 mm (72.64 in.) |
| Height | 1715 mm (67.52 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2780 mm (109.45 in.) |
| Front track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Rear track | 1572 mm (61.89 in.) |
| Front overhang | 925 mm (36.42 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 975 mm (38.39 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 200 mm (7.87 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 19.3° |
| Departure angle | 24.6° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission (CVT) |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/60 R17; 225/60 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17 |
The DFSK 580 1.5 (150 Hp) CVT, launched in 2021, represents a significant offering from Dongfeng Sokon (DFSK) in the compact SUV segment. Positioned as a mid-range trim within the 580 lineup, this variant aimed to balance affordability with a reasonable level of equipment and performance. The 580, in general, was primarily targeted towards emerging markets seeking a spacious, seven-seater SUV at a competitive price point. While DFSK isn’t a widely recognized brand in North America, the 580 was intended to establish a foothold for the company in regions where value-for-money and practicality are key purchasing factors. This specific 1.5L turbocharged engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) was designed to offer improved fuel efficiency compared to potential larger engine options, while still providing adequate power for everyday driving needs.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the DFSK 580 1.5 CVT is the SFG15T engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) configuration with variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust valves, optimizing performance and efficiency across the rev range. Forced induction is provided by a turbocharger with an intercooler, boosting power output to 150 horsepower and 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-point fuel injection system. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The CVT transmission, while offering smooth and stepless gear changes, is a key component in maximizing fuel economy. It lacks traditional fixed gear ratios, instead utilizing a belt-and-pulley system to provide a continuous range of ratios. This setup allows the engine to operate at its most efficient point more often.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5L engine and CVT combination in the DFSK 580 delivers adequate, though not particularly exhilarating, performance. Acceleration is sufficient for everyday driving situations, but the CVT can sometimes feel less responsive than a traditional automatic transmission, particularly during quick overtaking maneuvers. The CVT’s programming prioritizes fuel efficiency, which can result in a slight delay in power delivery when the accelerator is pressed. Compared to potential higher-output engine options (if offered in other 580 trims), this variant sacrifices some performance for improved fuel economy. The front-wheel-drive configuration contributes to a relatively neutral handling balance, but it doesn’t offer the all-weather capability of an all-wheel-drive system.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 CVT trim of the DFSK 580 typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and standard safety equipment like ABS and airbags. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with plastic trim accents. Higher trim levels within the 580 range offered upgrades such as leather seats, a larger touchscreen infotainment system, a sunroof, and additional safety features like parking sensors and a rearview camera. The 1.5 CVT trim was positioned as a good value proposition, offering a reasonable level of equipment for its price point.
Chassis & Braking
The DFSK 580 utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension setup at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. Disc brakes are fitted on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power. The electric power steering system offers light and easy steering, making it well-suited for urban driving. The vehicle’s ride height of 200mm (7.87 inches) provides reasonable ground clearance for navigating uneven road surfaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
The DFSK 580 1.5 CVT was generally well-received in markets where it was sold, particularly for its spacious interior, seven-seat capacity, and competitive pricing. Critics noted that the CVT transmission could feel somewhat sluggish at times, but praised the engine’s fuel efficiency. Compared to other compact SUVs in its class, the 580 offered a compelling value proposition, but it lacked the brand recognition and established reputation of more established manufacturers. Fuel economy figures of around 7.2 l/100km (32.7 US mpg) were competitive for its segment.
Legacy
The DFSK 580 1.5 CVT, while not a mainstream vehicle in many markets, represents an interesting example of a value-oriented SUV from a Chinese manufacturer. Its long-term reliability remains to be fully assessed, but early reports suggest that the powertrain is generally durable. On the used car market, these vehicles are typically offered at attractive prices, making them a potentially affordable option for buyers seeking a spacious and practical SUV. The SFG15T engine, while not known for exceptional performance, has proven to be a relatively reliable unit in other DFSK models.
