The Hawtai Terracan 2.4 (125 Hp) 4×4 was a mid-size SUV produced by the Chinese manufacturer Hawtai between 2014 and 2017. Positioned as a relatively affordable and capable all-terrain vehicle, the Terracan aimed to capture a segment of the market seeking a robust SUV with four-wheel drive. It represented Hawtai’s attempt to establish a foothold in the competitive SUV landscape, leveraging a design that drew inspiration from established Japanese and Korean models. The 2.4-liter variant, equipped with a five-speed manual transmission and four-wheel drive, served as a core offering within the Terracan lineup, appealing to buyers prioritizing practicality and off-road capability over outright performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hawtai |
| Model | Terracan |
| Generation | Terracan |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 (125 Hp) 4×4 |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle, SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 20.8 kg/Hp, 48 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 13 kg/Nm, 76.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 125 Hp @ 5250 rpm |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 2500 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 4G69 |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Kerb Weight | 2605 kg (5743.04 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1060 l (37.43 cu. ft) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Length | 4710 mm (185.43 in) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in) |
| Height | 1850 mm (72.83 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2750 mm (108.27 in) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 205 mm (8.07 in) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Independent torsion bar, double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 255/65 R16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Hawtai Terracan 2.4 4×4 was powered by the Mitsubishi-sourced 4G69 engine, a 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, known for its relative simplicity and durability, produced 125 horsepower at 5250 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque at 2500 rpm. The 4G69 featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was managed by a multi-point fuel injection system. The engine’s design prioritized reliability and low-end torque, making it suitable for the Terracan’s intended use as a practical SUV. The engine was mated to a five-speed manual transmission, which sent power to all four wheels via a part-time four-wheel-drive system. This system allowed the driver to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive modes, enhancing both on-road efficiency and off-road capability.
Driving Characteristics
The Terracan 2.4 4×4’s driving experience was characterized by its focus on practicality rather than sporty performance. The 125 horsepower engine provided adequate power for everyday driving, but acceleration was not particularly brisk. The five-speed manual transmission offered a reasonable level of control, but the gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and low-speed torque rather than rapid acceleration. In real-world conditions, the Terracan felt most comfortable cruising at highway speeds or navigating moderate off-road terrain. Compared to potential higher-output engine options (had they been available), the 2.4-liter engine offered a more economical driving experience, albeit at the expense of performance. The four-wheel-drive system provided enhanced traction in slippery conditions, making it a capable vehicle for tackling unpaved roads and mild off-road trails.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Hawtai Terracan 2.4 4×4 typically came equipped with a standard set of features aimed at providing comfort and convenience. These included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with a functional and durable design. The dashboard layout was straightforward and easy to use, prioritizing practicality over aesthetic flair. Optional extras, depending on the market and specific package, could include alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system, and a sunroof. Safety features typically included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard, but other advanced safety technologies were generally absent.
Chassis & Braking
The Terracan 2.4 4×4 featured a body-on-frame construction, which contributed to its robust and durable character. The front suspension utilized a coil spring, independent torsion bar, and double wishbone setup, while the rear suspension employed an independent multi-link system. This suspension configuration aimed to provide a balance between ride comfort and handling stability. The braking system consisted of disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight class. The steering system was a rack and pinion type, offering reasonably precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hawtai Terracan 2.4 4×4 received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While its affordability and four-wheel-drive capability were praised, its relatively basic interior and lack of refinement were often criticized. Compared to established competitors from Japanese and Korean manufacturers, the Terracan was often seen as offering less refinement and a less sophisticated driving experience. However, its lower price point made it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers seeking a capable SUV. Fuel economy was average for its class, and reliability reports were limited due to the relatively short production run and limited market presence.
Legacy
The Hawtai Terracan 2.4 4×4, while not a major success in terms of sales volume, represents an interesting chapter in the development of the Chinese automotive industry. The 4G69 engine, sourced from Mitsubishi, proved to be a relatively reliable and durable powertrain. In the used car market, the Terracan 2.4 4×4 is often sought after by buyers looking for an affordable and capable off-road vehicle. However, potential buyers should be aware of the vehicle’s limited refinement and the potential for higher maintenance costs due to its age and Chinese origin. Parts availability can also be a concern, depending on the region.
