The Kaiyi Kunlun 1.5T (156 Hp) DCT is a compact to mid-size SUV introduced by the Chinese automaker Kaiyi in March 2025. Representing a significant step for the relatively new brand, the Kunlun aims to compete in the increasingly crowded SUV market, offering a blend of modern features, a turbocharged engine, and a dual-clutch transmission. This particular variant, equipped with the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine and a 6-speed DCT, positions itself as a mainstream offering within the Kunlun lineup, balancing performance and fuel efficiency. The Kunlun is available with either five or seven seats, catering to a range of family needs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kaiyi |
| Model | Kunlun |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5T (156 Hp) DCT |
| Start of production | March, 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | China VI |
| Power | 156 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 104.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 1750-4000 rpm |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 169.64 lb.-ft. @ 1750-4000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | SQRE4T15C |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 |
| Engine displacement (cu. in.) | 91.41 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l |
| Fuel tank capacity (US gal) | 15.85 US gal |
| Fuel tank capacity (UK gal) | 13.2 UK gal |
| Length | 4738 mm |
| Length (in.) | 186.54 in. |
| Width | 1968 mm |
| Width (in.) | 77.48 in. |
| Height | 1708 mm |
| Height (in.) | 67.24 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2820 mm |
| Wheelbase (in.) | 111.02 in. |
| Front track | 1652 mm |
| Front track (in.) | 65.04 in. |
| Rear track | 1652 mm |
| Rear track (in.) | 65.04 in. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission DCT |
| 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 |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/60 R18; 245/55 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 18; 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Kunlun 1.5T DCT is the SQRE4T15C, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes a turbocharger and intercooler to boost power output to 156 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 230 Nm (169.64 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 4000 rpm. The engine employs multi-port fuel injection, a common setup for modern gasoline engines, and features a Start & Stop system to improve fuel economy during city driving. The engine’s architecture is relatively conventional, aiming for a balance between performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. The 6-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) is a key component, offering quicker and smoother gear changes compared to a traditional automatic transmission. DCTs are known for their efficiency and responsiveness, contributing to a more engaging driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The Kunlun 1.5T DCT delivers adequate performance for everyday driving. The turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power, particularly during acceleration, making merging onto highways and overtaking other vehicles relatively effortless. While not a sports SUV, the combination of 156 hp and the quick-shifting DCT provides a responsive feel. The DCT’s gear ratios are tuned for a balance between acceleration and fuel efficiency. Compared to potential higher-output variants (if offered in the future), this 1.5T version prioritizes fuel economy and a more relaxed driving experience. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides predictable handling, although it may lack the all-weather capability of an all-wheel-drive system.
Equipment & Trim Levels
Specific trim levels and standard equipment for the Kunlun 1.5T DCT will vary depending on the market and optional packages selected. However, it is expected to include standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a touchscreen infotainment system, and basic safety features like ABS and airbags. Higher trim levels are likely to add features such as leather upholstery, a sunroof, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), and upgraded audio systems. The availability of five or seven-seat configurations provides flexibility for families of different sizes.
Chassis & Braking
The Kunlun 1.5T DCT utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear. This suspension setup is designed to provide a comfortable ride while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. Ventilated disc brakes are used on the front wheels, providing strong stopping power, while disc brakes are used on the rear. The electric power steering system offers a light and responsive feel, making it easy to maneuver in city traffic. Tire sizes of 245/60 R18 or 245/55 R19 are offered, depending on the trim level and wheel size.
Market Reception & Comparison
As a new entrant to the market, the Kaiyi Kunlun 1.5T DCT faces stiff competition from established SUV brands. Initial reviews suggest that the Kunlun offers a competitive package in terms of features and price. Its fuel efficiency, meeting China VI emission standards, is a key selling point. Compared to other SUVs in its class, the Kunlun aims to provide a good value proposition, offering a comparable level of equipment and performance at a potentially lower price point. Long-term reliability data is not yet available, as the vehicle is newly launched.
Legacy
The long-term success of the Kaiyi Kunlun 1.5T DCT will depend on its reliability, build quality, and customer satisfaction. As a relatively new brand, Kaiyi will need to establish a reputation for dependability to gain consumer trust. The 1.5T engine and DCT transmission combination is expected to be a mainstay of the Kunlun lineup, potentially undergoing refinements and updates in future model years. The Kunlun represents Kaiyi’s ambition to become a significant player in the global automotive market, and the 1.5T DCT variant is a crucial component of that strategy.
