The Kaiyi X3 1.5L, introduced in 2020, represents an entry point into the compact SUV segment for the Chinese automaker Kaiyi. Positioned as an affordable and practical option, the X3 aimed to capture market share in a rapidly growing SUV market. This particular variant, equipped with a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine producing 113 horsepower, and a five-speed manual transmission, was designed to appeal to budget-conscious buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and basic transportation. The X3 is a five-door, five-seater SUV built on a traditional internal combustion engine platform.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kaiyi |
| Model | X3 |
| Generation | X3 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5L (113 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 166 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.1 sec |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 10 kg/Nm |
| Power | 113 Hp @ 6150 rpm |
| Torque | 138 Nm @ 4000 rpm (101.78 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | SQRE4G15C |
| Engine displacement | 1499 cm3 (91.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Kerb Weight | 1377 kg (3035.77 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1753 kg (3864.7 lbs.) |
| Max load | 376 kg (828.94 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 360 l (12.71 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 51 l (13.47 US gal) |
| Length | 4400 mm (173.23 in.) |
| Width | 1831 mm (72.09 in.) |
| Height | 1653 mm (65.08 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2632 mm (103.62 in.) |
| Front track | 1551 mm (61.06 in.) |
| Rear track | 1563 mm (61.54 in.) |
| Front overhang | 908 mm (35.75 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 860 mm (33.86 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 190 mm (7.48 in.) |
| Approach angle | 23° |
| Departure angle | 30° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| 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 | 215/60 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Kaiyi X3 1.5L utilizes the SQRE4G15C engine, a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine employs a multi-port fuel injection system, a relatively simple and cost-effective technology. The engine produces 113 horsepower at 6150 rpm and 138 Nm (101.78 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The compression ratio is set at 11:1. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with four valves per cylinder. Paired with this engine is a five-speed manual transmission, chosen for its simplicity and affordability. This combination prioritizes fuel economy over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The X3 1.5L’s driving experience is best described as adequate for everyday commuting and urban driving. The 113 horsepower engine provides sufficient power for normal driving conditions, but acceleration is noticeably slow, taking approximately 13.8 seconds to reach 100 km/h (62 mph). The five-speed manual transmission allows for some driver engagement, but the gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency rather than sporty performance. Compared to potentially available higher-output engine options (if offered in other X3 trims), this variant feels significantly less responsive. The focus is on providing a smooth and predictable driving experience, rather than an exciting one.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The base-level X3 1.5L typically came equipped with essential features such as air conditioning, power windows, and a basic audio system. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). Interior upholstery was generally cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional but basic design. Optional extras, depending on the market and package selected, could include alloy wheels, a rearview camera, and an upgraded infotainment system. The trim level was generally considered the entry-level offering, designed to attract buyers seeking the most affordable option in the X3 lineup.
Chassis & Braking
The Kaiyi X3 1.5L utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout. The front suspension consists of independent McPherson struts, providing a reasonable level of ride comfort. The rear suspension employs a torsion beam setup, a cost-effective solution commonly found in compact SUVs. The braking system features ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. The steering is rack and pinion with electric power steering assistance. The tires are typically sized 215/60 R17, providing a balance between ride comfort and handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kaiyi X3 1.5L was generally well-received as an affordable and practical SUV option in its target markets. Critics noted its competitive pricing and decent fuel economy. However, the engine’s lack of power and the basic interior were common criticisms. Compared to other compact SUVs available at the time, the X3 1.5L offered a compelling value proposition for budget-conscious buyers. Its fuel economy of 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg) was competitive within its class. Reliability reports are still emerging, but initial indications suggest that the powertrain is relatively robust.
Legacy
The Kaiyi X3 1.5L established Kaiyi as a contender in the competitive compact SUV market. While not known for groundbreaking performance or luxury, it provided a reliable and affordable transportation solution for many buyers. On the used car market, the X3 1.5L remains an attractive option for those seeking a budget-friendly SUV. The SQRE4G15C engine, while not a high-performance unit, is generally considered to be durable and relatively easy to maintain. Its simplicity contributes to its long-term reliability, making it a practical choice for those seeking a dependable vehicle.
