The JAC Rein 2.0, produced between 2007 and 2013, was a mid-size SUV manufactured by the Anhui Jianghuai Automobile Co., Ltd. (JAC) of China. Positioned as a domestically-focused vehicle, the Rein aimed to provide a spacious and relatively affordable SUV option in the rapidly growing Chinese automotive market. While not officially exported in large numbers to North America, the Rein represents a significant example of early Chinese automotive engineering and design, showcasing the industry’s ambitions to compete on a global scale. This specific variant, equipped with the 2.0-liter HFC4GA3-B engine producing 128 horsepower, was a mainstay of the Rein lineup, offering a balance between performance and fuel economy.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | JAC |
| Model | Rein |
| Generation | Rein |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 (128 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 160 km/h (99.42 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 3 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.3 kg/Hp (75.3 Hp/tonne) |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.9 kg/Nm (101.2 Nm/tonne) |
| Power | 128 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 64.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 172 Nm @ 3000 rpm (126.86 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | HFC4GA3-B |
| Engine displacement | 1997 cm3 (121.86 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Kerb Weight | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Max load | 400 kg (881.85 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 776 l (27.4 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4500 mm (177.17 in.) |
| Width | 1875 mm (73.82 in.) |
| Height | 1730 mm (68.11 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2620 mm (103.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1540 mm (60.63 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1540 mm (60.63 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12 m (39.37 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/70 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the JAC Rein 2.0 was the HFC4GA3-B, a 1.997-liter (121.86 cubic inches) inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilized a multi-port fuel injection system, a common setup for vehicles of this era, providing adequate fuel atomization for efficient combustion. The engine featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to improved breathing and power output. The 128 horsepower peak was achieved at 6000 rpm, while the 172 Nm (126.86 lb-ft) of torque was available at 3000 rpm. This configuration prioritized usable low-end torque over high-revving power. The engine was transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the rear wheels. The Rein 2.0 was exclusively offered with a 5-speed manual transmission, a deliberate choice likely aimed at cost reduction and simplicity.
Driving Characteristics
The 128 hp engine, coupled with the rear-wheel drive layout and 5-speed manual transmission, provided a driving experience that was adequate for everyday use but not particularly sporty. Acceleration was modest, with a 0-60 mph time estimated to be around 11-12 seconds. The rear-wheel drive configuration offered a slightly more engaging driving experience compared to front-wheel drive alternatives, but the relatively narrow tires (225/70 R16) limited grip during cornering. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and drivability, rather than outright performance. Compared to potential higher-output variants (which were not widely available), the 2.0-liter version offered a smoother, more relaxed driving experience, prioritizing comfort over speed.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The JAC Rein 2.0 typically came equipped with a basic level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with a functional but not luxurious design. Higher trim levels, when available, might have included features such as alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system, and upgraded interior trim. Optional extras could include a sunroof, rear parking sensors, and a navigation system, though availability varied depending on the market and year of production.
Chassis & Braking
The Rein 2.0 utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension system at the front, providing a reasonable level of ride comfort and handling. The rear suspension employed an independent multi-link setup with a stabilizer bar, further enhancing stability. The braking system consisted of disc brakes on all four wheels, coupled with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for improved stopping power and control. Hydraulic power steering was standard, providing a relatively light and easy steering feel. The chassis was designed to balance ride comfort with handling stability, prioritizing a comfortable ride for passengers.
Market Reception & Comparison
The JAC Rein 2.0 was primarily targeted at the Chinese domestic market, where it was viewed as a relatively affordable and spacious SUV option. Reviews within China generally praised the vehicle’s spacious interior and comfortable ride, but criticized its relatively basic interior materials and modest performance. Compared to other SUVs available in the Chinese market at the time, the Rein 2.0 offered a competitive price point, but lacked the brand recognition and refinement of established international brands. Fuel economy was considered average for its class, and reliability reports were mixed, with some owners reporting minor mechanical issues.
Legacy
The JAC Rein 2.0 represents an important milestone in the development of the Chinese automotive industry. It demonstrated the growing capabilities of Chinese manufacturers to design and produce modern SUVs. While the Rein itself is not widely known outside of China, it paved the way for subsequent JAC models and contributed to the overall growth of the Chinese automotive market. In the used car market, the Rein 2.0 is generally considered to be a relatively affordable and practical option, but potential buyers should be aware of potential maintenance issues and the limited availability of spare parts outside of China. The HFC4GA3-B engine, while not known for exceptional performance, proved to be reasonably durable with proper maintenance.
