The Haima S5 Young 1.6 (122 Hp) Automatic is a compact SUV produced by the Chinese manufacturer Haima Automobile from 2017 onwards. Positioned as an entry-level to mid-range offering within the S5 Young lineup, this variant aimed to provide a balance of affordability, practicality, and modern features for the burgeoning Chinese automotive market. The S5 Young itself is a derivative of the broader Haima S5 series, representing a refreshed and slightly more youthful design aesthetic. It competes with other domestically produced SUVs and increasingly, with offerings from joint-venture brands in China.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Haima |
| Model | S5 Young |
| Generation | S5 Young |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (122 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.8 kg/Hp, 92.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.3 kg/Nm, 121.1 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 | DOHC |
| 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 | 1321 kg (2912.31 lbs.) |
| Length | 4195 mm (165.16 in.) |
| Width | 1765 mm (69.49 in.) |
| Height | 1637 mm (64.45 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2560 mm (100.79 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 180 mm (7.09 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 | automatic transmission CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring, Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Haima S5 Young 1.6 Automatic is powered by the HMAGN16-VF1 engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes a naturally aspirated configuration and employs multi-point fuel injection to deliver fuel to the cylinders. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, operating with four valves per cylinder, contributing to improved breathing and efficiency. The engine produces a peak power output of 122 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), a popular choice in the Chinese market for its smooth operation and fuel efficiency. The CVT lacks traditional gear steps, instead utilizing a belt and pulley system to provide a seamless range of ratios.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter engine and CVT combination in the S5 Young delivers adequate performance for urban driving and highway cruising. However, it’s not designed for spirited acceleration. The CVT prioritizes fuel economy over outright speed, resulting in a somewhat less engaging driving experience compared to models equipped with manual transmissions or more powerful engines. The CVT’s continuously variable ratios help keep the engine within its optimal power band, but can sometimes feel ‘rubber-bandy’ under hard acceleration. The weight of the vehicle (1321 kg) contributes to a moderate 0-60 mph time, estimated to be around 11-12 seconds. The suspension setup, featuring McPherson struts at the front and a torsion beam rear axle, provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Haima S5 Young 1.6 Automatic typically came equipped with a standard set of features aimed at providing convenience and comfort. These generally included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system with USB connectivity. Higher trim levels, available as optional upgrades, could add features such as a touchscreen infotainment system, rearview camera, alloy wheels, and upgraded interior upholstery. Interior materials were generally of a budget-conscious nature, utilizing plastics and cloth upholstery. Safety features typically included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard, with airbags varying depending on the specific trim level.
Chassis & Braking
The S5 Young utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout. The front suspension employs independent McPherson struts, providing a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The rear suspension utilizes a semi-independent torsion beam setup, a cost-effective solution commonly found in compact SUVs. The braking system consists of disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight class. The 16-inch wheels are fitted with 205/60 R16 tires, offering a reasonable compromise between ride comfort and grip.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Haima S5 Young 1.6 Automatic was generally well-received in the Chinese market as an affordable and practical SUV option. Critics noted its comfortable ride, decent fuel economy (6.9 l/100km), and relatively spacious interior. However, the engine’s performance was often cited as a weakness, particularly when compared to competitors offering turbocharged engines or more powerful naturally aspirated options. Compared to higher-spec S5 Young models with larger engines, the 1.6-liter variant offered a more economical entry point, appealing to budget-conscious buyers. Reliability reports have been mixed, with some owners reporting minor issues with the CVT transmission and electrical components.
Legacy
The Haima S5 Young 1.6 Automatic represents a significant step in Haima’s development as an automotive manufacturer. While not a groundbreaking vehicle, it provided a competitive offering in the rapidly expanding Chinese SUV market. On the used car market, these models are generally available at very affordable prices. The longevity of the CVT transmission is a key consideration for potential buyers, and regular maintenance is crucial to ensure its continued operation. The 1.6-liter engine is generally considered reliable, but routine servicing is essential to prevent issues. The S5 Young, in its various configurations, helped establish Haima as a recognizable brand in China and paved the way for future models.
