The Hawtai B11 1.8 T (160 Hp) Automatic was a mid-size sedan produced by the Chinese manufacturer Hawtai Motor Group between 2014 and 2017. Positioned as a relatively upscale offering within Hawtai’s lineup, the B11 aimed to compete with established international brands in the Chinese market. This particular variant, featuring a 1.8-liter turbocharged engine paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, represented a balance between performance and affordability, targeting buyers seeking a comfortable and reasonably 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) Automatic |
| 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 | 9.7 kg/Hp, 102.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.2 kg/Nm, 138.3 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 | 1555 kg (3428.19 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 | 4 gears, automatic 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 Automatic is the 18K4G engine, a 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler. This engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its relatively high output for its displacement. The turbocharger is crucial for boosting power and torque, allowing the engine to produce 160 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 215 Nm (158.58 lb-ft) of torque at 4500 rpm. The engine’s 9.2:1 compression ratio is a compromise between efficiency and performance. The four-speed automatic transmission, while not the most modern, was chosen for its cost-effectiveness and perceived smoothness in operation. It’s important to note that this transmission lacks the efficiency and responsiveness of more modern six- or eight-speed automatics.
Driving Characteristics
The driving experience in the Hawtai B11 1.8 T Automatic is generally described as comfortable and adequate for everyday driving. The 160 hp engine provides sufficient power for highway cruising and overtaking, although it doesn’t offer particularly brisk acceleration. The four-speed automatic transmission contributes to a somewhat relaxed driving style, with noticeable shifts and a lack of the tight gear ratios found in more advanced transmissions. Compared to potential manual transmission versions (which were less common), the automatic offers convenience at the expense of some performance and fuel economy. The weight of the vehicle (1555 kg) does impact acceleration and handling, making it feel less nimble than lighter competitors.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The B11 1.8 T Automatic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features for its price point. These included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system, and ABS brakes. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for leather upgrades available. The dashboard layout was functional but not particularly luxurious, featuring a mix of plastic and metallic trim. Optional extras could include a sunroof, upgraded audio system, and parking sensors. The trim level of the 1.8T Automatic generally sat in the mid-range of the B11 lineup, offering a step up from the base models but falling short of the more luxurious trims.
Chassis & Braking
The Hawtai B11 utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear, providing a reasonably comfortable ride quality. The front brakes are ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering system is a rack and pinion setup, providing adequate precision and feedback. The vehicle rides on 225/60 R16 tires, which offer a good balance between comfort and grip.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hawtai B11 1.8 T Automatic received mixed reviews in the Chinese automotive press. Critics generally praised its comfortable ride and reasonable level of equipment for the price, but noted its somewhat unrefined engine and transmission, as well as its less-than-stellar fuel economy compared to some competitors. Compared to other 1.8-liter turbocharged sedans available in China at the time, the B11 offered a competitive price but lacked the brand recognition and perceived quality of established international brands. Fuel economy was reported to be around 8-10 liters per 100 kilometers (approximately 29-35 mpg), which was average for the segment.
Legacy
The Hawtai B11 1.8 T Automatic, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, represents an important step in Hawtai’s development as an automotive manufacturer. The 18K4G engine, while not known for exceptional reliability, proved to be generally durable with proper maintenance. On the used car market, the B11 1.8 T Automatic is typically offered at a relatively low price, making it an affordable option for budget-conscious buyers. However, potential buyers should be aware of the age of the vehicle and the potential for maintenance issues associated with older turbocharged engines and four-speed automatic transmissions. Parts availability can also be a concern, as Hawtai is not as widely represented internationally as some other brands.
