The Forthing T5 1.5T (150 Hp) CVT was a compact crossover utility vehicle (CUV) produced by Forthing, a sub-brand of Dongfeng Motor Corporation, between September 2018 and July 2019. Positioned as a mainstream offering within the rapidly expanding Chinese automotive market, the T5 aimed to provide a balance of practicality, fuel efficiency, and modern features. This specific 1.5T variant, equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), represented a mid-range option in the T5 lineup, slotting between the base models and potentially higher-trim levels with more powerful engine options. The T5 competed with a growing number of domestic and international CUVs in China, targeting families and urban drivers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Forthing |
| Model | T5 |
| Generation | T5 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5T (150 Hp) CVT |
| Start of production | September, 2018 |
| End of production | July, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | CUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.5 l/100 km (24.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 160 km/h (99.42 mph) |
| Emission standard | China V |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 100.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 2000-4500 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 4A91T |
| Engine displacement | 1499 cm3 (91.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System |
| Kerb Weight | 1530 kg (3373.07 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 515 l (18.19 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal) |
| Length | 4550 mm (179.13 in.) |
| Width | 1825 mm (71.85 in.) |
| Height | 1725 mm (67.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2720 mm (107.09 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission CVT |
| 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 |
| Tires size | 215/55 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Forthing T5 1.5T CVT was powered by the 4A91T engine, a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine was part of a series developed by Mitsubishi, and utilized multi-point fuel injection. The turbocharger and intercooler were employed to boost power output and improve efficiency. The engine produced 150 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque between 2000 and 4500 rpm. The engine featured a compression ratio of 9.5:1 and a four-valve-per-cylinder configuration. The engine was paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which prioritized smooth operation and fuel economy over outright performance. The CVT lacked fixed gear ratios, instead utilizing a belt and pulley system to provide a seamless range of ratios.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5T CVT configuration of the Forthing T5 offered a comfortable and generally adequate driving experience for everyday use. The CVT, while smooth, didn’t provide the immediate response of a traditional automatic transmission or a manual gearbox. Acceleration was linear, but not particularly brisk. The engine’s peak torque, available from 2000 rpm, provided sufficient power for merging onto highways and overtaking slower traffic. Compared to potential higher-output versions of the T5 (if offered), this variant would have felt less sporty and more focused on fuel efficiency. The CVT’s programming likely prioritized economy, resulting in a more relaxed driving experience. The front-wheel-drive layout contributed to predictable handling, but didn’t offer the all-weather capability of an all-wheel-drive system.
Equipment & Trim Levels
Specific standard equipment for the 1.5T CVT trim level would have varied depending on the exact package offered by Forthing. However, it likely included features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and standard safety equipment like ABS and airbags. Higher trim levels would have added features like a touchscreen infotainment system, alloy wheels, a rearview camera, and potentially more advanced safety features. Interior upholstery was likely cloth, with options for leatherette or leather available on higher trims. The dashboard layout was typical of contemporary CUVs, with a focus on functionality and ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The Forthing T5 utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension setup at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This configuration aimed to provide a comfortable ride and reasonable handling characteristics. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The steering system was a rack and pinion setup, providing precise and responsive steering feel. The vehicle rode on 18-inch alloy wheels with 215/55 R18 tires, which balanced ride comfort and handling performance. The T5’s chassis was designed to provide a stable and predictable driving experience, prioritizing comfort over sporty handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Forthing T5 1.5T CVT was generally well-received in the Chinese market as a practical and affordable CUV. Critics noted its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and decent fuel economy. However, some reviewers pointed out the CVT’s lack of responsiveness and the engine’s somewhat underwhelming performance compared to some competitors. Compared to other trims in the T5 lineup, the 1.5T CVT offered a good balance of price and features, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Its fuel economy of 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg) was competitive within its segment.
Legacy
The Forthing T5, while not a long-lived model, represented an important step for Forthing in establishing itself as a player in the competitive Chinese automotive market. The 1.5T engine and CVT combination proved to be a reliable powertrain, and examples continue to appear on the used car market in China. While long-term reliability data is limited due to the vehicle’s relatively short production run, the Mitsubishi-derived engine is generally considered to be durable. The T5 helped pave the way for Forthing’s subsequent models and contributed to the brand’s growing recognition among Chinese consumers.
