The Hawtai B11 1.8 T (160 Hp) was a mid-size sedan produced by the Chinese manufacturer Hawtai Motor Group from 2014 to 2017. Positioned as a more upscale offering within the Hawtai lineup, the B11 aimed to compete with established international brands in the burgeoning Chinese automotive market. This particular variant, powered by a turbocharged 1.8-liter engine and a five-speed manual transmission, represented a balance between performance and affordability, targeting buyers seeking a comfortable and relatively powerful sedan. The B11 was Hawtai’s attempt to move upmarket, offering a more refined experience than their earlier offerings.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hawtai |
| Model | B11 |
| Generation | B11 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 T (160 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.4 kg/Hp, 106 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7 kg/Nm, 142.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 89.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 215 Nm @ 4500 rpm (158.58 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 18K4G |
| Engine displacement | 1796 cm3 (109.6 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 80.01 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89.3 mm (3.52 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.9 l (5.18 US qt | 4.31 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1510 kg (3328.98 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 450 l (15.89 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4943 mm (194.61 in.) |
| Width | 1852 mm (72.91 in.) |
| Height | 1511 mm (59.49 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2764 mm (108.82 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 138 mm (5.43 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 |
| 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 | 225/60 R16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the B11 1.8 T was the 18K4G engine, a 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler. This engine produced 160 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 215 Nm (158.58 lb-ft) of torque at 4500 rpm. The engine utilized multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its relatively efficient operation. The turbocharger was crucial in boosting power output from the relatively small displacement engine. The five-speed manual transmission was the sole gearbox option for this variant, providing drivers with full control over gear selection. While not a particularly advanced powertrain by global standards, it was considered competitive within the Chinese market segment at the time.
Driving Characteristics
The B11 1.8 T offered a reasonably engaging driving experience, particularly when compared to naturally aspirated alternatives. The turbocharger provided a noticeable boost in acceleration, making overtaking maneuvers easier. However, the five-speed manual transmission, while offering driver involvement, lacked the refinement of more modern automatic transmissions. The gear ratios were tuned for a balance between fuel economy and performance, with a slightly taller final drive to improve highway cruising. Compared to other B11 variants, the 1.8T offered a more spirited driving experience than the base engine options, but lacked the outright performance of any potential higher-output models that were never fully realized.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The B11 1.8 T typically came equipped with a standard set of features including air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with optional leather upgrades available. Higher trim levels added features such as alloy wheels, a sunroof, and a more advanced audio system with navigation. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over stylistic flair. Safety features included ABS and airbags, but advanced driver-assistance systems were not commonly available on this model.
Chassis & Braking
The B11 utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. Ventilated disc brakes were fitted to the front wheels, while solid discs were used at the rear. The steering system employed a rack and pinion setup, offering reasonably precise steering feel. The chassis was designed to provide a balance between handling and ride comfort, prioritizing stability over sporty dynamics. The 225/60 R16 tires provided adequate grip for everyday driving conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hawtai B11 1.8 T received mixed reviews from automotive critics in China. While praised for its relatively spacious interior and comfortable ride, it was often criticized for its somewhat bland styling and lack of brand recognition compared to established international competitors. The 1.8-liter turbo engine was generally well-received, offering a good balance of power and fuel economy. However, some reviewers noted that the five-speed manual transmission felt dated compared to the automatic transmissions offered in competing models. Fuel economy was comparable to other vehicles in its class, and reliability was generally considered average.
Legacy
The Hawtai B11 1.8 T, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, represented Hawtai’s ambition to compete in the mid-size sedan segment. The 18K4G engine proved to be reasonably durable, and examples of the B11 1.8 T are still found on the used car market in China today. However, due to the relatively limited production run and the emergence of newer, more competitive models, the B11 has not achieved significant collector status. The B11 served as a stepping stone for Hawtai, providing valuable experience in developing and manufacturing passenger vehicles, and paving the way for future models.
