The Hawtai C9 2.0 TD (150 Hp) was a compact SUV produced by the Chinese manufacturer Hawtai Motor Group between 2014 and 2017. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the C9 lineup, it aimed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency, practicality, and affordability in the burgeoning Chinese SUV market. The C9 itself represented Hawtai’s attempt to establish a foothold in the competitive SUV segment, leveraging imported technology and design elements. This particular 2.0 TD variant was a key component of that strategy, offering a diesel engine option alongside gasoline-powered models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hawtai |
| Model | C9 |
| Generation | C9 |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TD (150 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.5 kg/Hp, 86.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 179.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 310 Nm @ 2000 rpm, 228.64 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | OED483 |
| Engine displacement | 1991 cm3, 121.5 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm, 3.27 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm, 3.62 in. |
| Compression ratio | 17.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.3 l, 6.66 US qt | 5.54 UK qt |
| Coolant | 9 l, 9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 1730 kg, 3814 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 heart of the Hawtai C9 2.0 TD was the OED483 engine, a 1.991-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine utilized a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output to 150 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 310 Nm (228.64 lb-ft) of torque at 2000 rpm. The engine employed a Diesel Commonrail direct fuel injection system, a technology that allowed for precise fuel delivery and improved combustion efficiency. The engine featured a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its relatively high power output for its displacement. The engine’s high compression ratio of 17.5:1 was typical for diesel engines, maximizing thermal efficiency. The engine was transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 TD engine, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, provided adequate performance for everyday driving. While not particularly sporty, the engine’s torque output at low rpm made it suitable for navigating urban environments and handling moderate inclines. The 5-speed gearbox offered reasonable spacing, but lacked the refinement of more modern automatic transmissions. Compared to the gasoline-powered versions of the C9, the diesel variant offered superior fuel economy and a more relaxed driving experience at highway speeds. However, it was noticeably slower in acceleration compared to higher-powered gasoline engines. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided predictable handling, but lacked the all-weather capability of an all-wheel-drive system.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Hawtai C9 2.0 TD typically came equipped with standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system. Higher trim levels offered upgrades like alloy wheels, a more sophisticated audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and a sunroof. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with leather options available as an upgrade. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard, but other advanced safety systems were often optional or unavailable. The dashboard layout was functional but lacked the aesthetic appeal of more established brands.
Chassis & Braking
The C9 2.0 TD utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension system at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This suspension setup provided a reasonable level of ride comfort and handling stability. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The steering system was a rack and pinion type, offering adequate precision and feedback. The vehicle rode on 225/70 R16 tires, which provided a good balance of comfort and grip. The relatively high ground clearance of 207 mm (8.15 in) made the C9 suitable for navigating rough roads and uneven terrain.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hawtai C9 2.0 TD received mixed reviews from automotive critics in China. While praised for its fuel efficiency and practicality, it was often criticized for its relatively basic interior, lack of refinement, and uninspired styling. Compared to established competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, the C9 lagged behind in terms of build quality, brand reputation, and overall driving experience. However, its lower price point made it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The diesel variant offered a significant fuel economy advantage over the gasoline-powered models, but its higher initial cost and potential maintenance concerns limited its appeal.
Legacy
The Hawtai C9 2.0 TD, while not a resounding success, played a role in Hawtai’s efforts to gain a foothold in the Chinese SUV market. The OED483 diesel engine proved to be reasonably reliable, although long-term durability data is limited. On the used car market, the C9 2.0 TD is typically offered at a low price point, making it an affordable option for buyers seeking a practical and fuel-efficient SUV. However, potential buyers should be aware of the vehicle’s age, limited availability of spare parts, and the potential for higher maintenance costs compared to more established brands. The C9 represents a snapshot of the early stages of the Chinese automotive industry’s development, showcasing both its ambitions and its limitations.
