The Hawtai C9 2.0 (136 Hp) was a compact SUV produced by the Chinese manufacturer Hawtai Motor Group between 2014 and 2018. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the C9 lineup, it aimed to provide a balance of practicality, space, and affordability in the rapidly growing Chinese SUV market. The C9 itself represented Hawtai’s attempt to establish a foothold in the competitive SUV segment, leveraging a relatively modern design and feature set. This particular 2.0-liter variant served as a key volume seller, offering a step up in performance from the base engine options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hawtai |
| Model | C9 |
| Generation | C9 |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 (136 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.2 kg/Hp, 81.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.4 kg/Nm, 106.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 177 Nm @ 4800 rpm (130.55 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 4G94D |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Kerb Weight | 1665 kg (3670.7 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 850 l (30.02 cu. ft) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2100 l (74.16 cu. ft) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4500 mm (177.17 in) |
| Width | 1820 mm (71.65 in) |
| Height | 1730 mm (68.11 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2620 mm (103.15 in) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 207 mm (8.15 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 | 225/70 R16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Hawtai C9 2.0 utilized the Mitsubishi-sourced 4G94D engine, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine featured a naturally aspirated configuration and employed a multi-port fuel injection system. While not a particularly advanced engine design by contemporary standards, it was known for its relative reliability and ease of maintenance. The 4G94D produced 136 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 177 Nm (130.55 lb-ft) of torque at 4800 rpm. The engine’s valvetrain consisted of a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design. The engine was transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. The transmission was a standard 5-speed manual gearbox, offering a relatively direct driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The C9 2.0 with the 5-speed manual transmission offered adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration was not particularly brisk, but sufficient for merging onto highways and navigating urban traffic. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and drivability rather than outright performance. The manual transmission allowed for a greater degree of driver control compared to any potential automatic variants (which were less common). The relatively low torque output meant that the engine needed to be revved to access its full power potential. Handling was typical for a compact SUV of its era – comfortable and predictable, but not particularly sporty. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided reasonable traction in most conditions, but could exhibit torque steer under hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Hawtai C9 2.0 typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features for its price point. These included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system. Higher trim levels offered upgrades such as alloy wheels, a more sophisticated audio system, and additional safety features. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with optional leather available on higher trims. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over aesthetic flair. Optional extras could include a sunroof, rear parking sensors, and a navigation system.
Chassis & Braking
The C9 2.0 featured an independent McPherson strut suspension system at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This suspension setup provided a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. The front brakes were ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The steering system utilized a rack and pinion setup, offering precise and responsive steering feel. The vehicle rode on 225/70 R16 tires, providing a good balance of comfort and grip.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hawtai C9 2.0 was generally well-received in the Chinese market as a practical and affordable SUV. Critics praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reasonable fuel economy. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked refinement and that the interior materials were not of the highest quality. Compared to other SUVs in its class, such as the Geely Emgrand X7 and the Changan CS75, the C9 2.0 offered a competitive value proposition. Its fuel economy was comparable to its rivals, and its reliability was generally considered to be good.
Legacy
The Hawtai C9, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, played a role in establishing Hawtai as a player in the Chinese SUV market. The 2.0-liter engine proved to be relatively durable and reliable, and many examples remain on the road today. In the used car market, the C9 2.0 is often sought after for its affordability and practicality. While it may not offer the latest technology or the most refined driving experience, it represents a solid and dependable option for budget-conscious buyers. The C9’s success helped pave the way for Hawtai’s subsequent SUV models, and its design elements can be seen in later vehicles produced by the company.
