The Haima S5 1.6, produced between 2014 and 2017, was a compact SUV positioned as an entry-level offering within the Haima S5 range. Haima, a Chinese automotive manufacturer established in 1992 as a joint venture with Ford, aimed to provide affordable and practical vehicles for the rapidly growing Chinese automotive market. The S5, and specifically the 1.6-liter variant, was designed to appeal to budget-conscious buyers seeking a versatile family vehicle. It represented Haima’s attempt to compete in the increasingly crowded SUV segment, leveraging a relatively simple and proven powertrain to deliver value. This model was primarily sold within the Chinese domestic market, with limited export sales.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Haima |
| Model | S5 |
| Generation | S5 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (122 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.3 kg/Hp, 88.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.6 kg/Nm, 115.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 122 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 4000 rpm (118.01 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | HMAGN16-VF1 |
| Engine displacement | 1591 cm3 (97.09 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 | VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.8 l (4.02 US qt | 3.34 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.8 l (7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1380 kg (3042.38 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4358 mm (171.57 in.) |
| Width | 1823 mm (71.77 in.) |
| Height | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2630 mm (103.54 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 201 mm (7.91 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 with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/65 R16; 215/60 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Haima S5 1.6 utilized the HMAGN16-VF1 engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine featured a multi-point fuel injection system and Variable Valve Timing (VVT) technology, aimed at improving fuel efficiency and responsiveness. The engine produced 122 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine’s design was relatively conventional, prioritizing reliability and affordability over outright performance. The engine was transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. The standard transmission was a five-speed manual gearbox. While an automatic transmission was offered on other S5 variants, it was not available with the 1.6-liter engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter engine, paired with the five-speed manual transmission, provided adequate, but not exceptional, performance. Acceleration was modest, with a focus on fuel economy rather than spirited driving. The gear ratios were tuned for everyday usability, prioritizing smooth operation and reasonable fuel consumption. Compared to the higher-output engines available in the S5 range, the 1.6-liter variant felt noticeably less powerful, particularly when fully loaded or tackling inclines. However, the lighter engine weight contributed to slightly improved handling and responsiveness compared to its more powerful siblings. The manual transmission offered a more engaging driving experience than the automatic options available on other trims.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Haima S5 1.6 was typically offered in a base trim level, focusing on essential features. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, power windows, power steering, and an audio system with basic connectivity options. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional, if somewhat basic, dashboard layout. Optional extras, depending on the market and availability, could include alloy wheels, a rear parking sensor, and upgraded audio systems. The interior design prioritized practicality and durability over luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The S5 1.6 featured a McPherson strut front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The suspension was tuned for everyday driving conditions, prioritizing comfort over sporty handling. The braking system consisted of disc brakes on all four wheels, coupled with ABS. The steering utilized a hydraulic power steering system, offering a direct and responsive feel. The relatively lightweight nature of the 1.6-liter engine contributed to a slightly more agile feel compared to the heavier, more powerful S5 variants.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Haima S5 1.6 was generally well-received in the Chinese market as an affordable and practical SUV option. Critics noted its reasonable fuel economy and adequate performance for everyday driving. However, it was often criticized for its relatively basic interior and lack of advanced features compared to some of its competitors. Compared to other S5 trims, the 1.6-liter variant offered the most affordable entry point into the S5 range, appealing to budget-conscious buyers. The higher-output engines offered significantly more performance but came at a higher price point. The 1.6L model was often compared to other entry-level compact SUVs from Chinese manufacturers, such as the Changan CS35 and the Geely Emgrand X6.
Legacy
The Haima S5 1.6, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, played a significant role in establishing Haima as a competitor in the Chinese SUV market. The powertrain, while simple, proved to be relatively reliable in real-world conditions. On the used car market, the S5 1.6 remains an affordable option for buyers seeking a practical and economical SUV. Maintenance costs are generally low due to the engine’s straightforward design and the availability of spare parts. However, potential buyers should be aware of the vehicle’s relatively basic features and limited performance compared to more modern SUVs. The S5 1.6 represents a snapshot of the early stages of the Chinese automotive industry’s growth and its increasing focus on providing affordable transportation options.
