The Maxus D90 2.0 Turbo Automatic, launched in 2017, represents a significant offering from the Chinese automaker SAIC Motor, marketed under the Maxus brand. This full-size SUV was primarily aimed at the Chinese domestic market, where large, comfortable, and relatively affordable SUVs are highly sought after. The D90 aimed to provide a compelling alternative to established players, offering seven-passenger seating and a robust feature set. This particular variant, equipped with the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, positioned itself as a mid-range option within the D90 lineup, balancing performance with fuel efficiency and cost. It was designed to appeal to families and buyers seeking a spacious and well-equipped vehicle for both urban and long-distance travel.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Maxus |
| Model | D90 |
| Generation | D90 |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 Turbo (224 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 238 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.1 kg/Hp, 109.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm, 171.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 224 Hp @ 5300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 112.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 2500-3500 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 2500-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 20L4E |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.5 l (12.15 US qt | 10.12 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2040-2210 kg (4497.43 – 4872.22 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2900 kg (6393.41 lbs.) |
| Max load | 690-860 kg (1521.19 – 1895.98 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 343 l (12.11 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2382 l (84.12 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 5005 mm (197.05 in.) |
| Width | 1932 mm (76.06 in.) |
| Height | 1875 mm (73.82 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2950 mm (116.14 in.) |
| Front track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1620 mm (63.78 in.) |
| Front overhang | 935 mm (36.81 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1120 mm (44.09 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 210 mm (8.27 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.35 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12 m (39.37 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 28° |
| Departure angle | 25° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 20° |
| Wading depth | 550 mm (21.65 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Coil spring |
| 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 | 255/65 R17; 255/60 R18; 255/55 R19; 265/45 R21 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17; 7.5J x 18; 7.5J x 19; 8.5J x 21 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the D90 2.0 Turbo Automatic is the 20L4E engine, a 1.995-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is coupled with a single turbocharger and intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The 20L4E engine produces 224 horsepower at 5300 rpm and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque between 2500 and 3500 rpm. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its relatively high specific output. The six-speed automatic transmission, while not a cutting-edge design, provides smooth shifts and is well-suited to the engine’s torque curve. It’s a conventional torque converter automatic, prioritizing comfort and ease of use over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The D90 2.0 Turbo Automatic offers a comfortable and composed driving experience. While not particularly sporty, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 9.3 seconds, which is respectable for a large SUV. The automatic transmission is programmed for smooth shifts, prioritizing fuel economy and comfort. Compared to higher-output versions of the D90, this variant feels less urgent in acceleration, but the trade-off is improved fuel efficiency. The rear-wheel-drive configuration contributes to a balanced feel, although it doesn’t offer the all-weather capability of all-wheel-drive models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 Turbo Automatic trim typically included standard features such as leather upholstery, a touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control, and a suite of safety features including ABS, airbags, and stability control. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, premium audio system, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Interior appointments were generally well-executed, with a focus on comfort and practicality. The D90 aimed to provide a premium feel without the premium price tag of European or Japanese competitors.
Chassis & Braking
The D90 utilizes a double wishbone suspension setup at the front and a rigid axle with coil springs at the rear. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality, although it’s not as refined as independent rear suspension systems found in some competitors. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The ABS system provides effective stopping power and stability in emergency braking situations. The steering is electrically assisted, offering light and precise control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Maxus D90 2.0 Turbo Automatic was generally well-received in the Chinese market, praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and competitive pricing. Critics noted that the engine, while adequate, wasn’t as refined or powerful as some of its rivals. Fuel economy was considered average for its class. Compared to other D90 trims, the 2.0 Turbo Automatic offered a more affordable entry point, appealing to buyers who prioritized value and practicality over outright performance. It competed with other large SUVs from Chinese manufacturers, as well as established brands like Toyota and Honda.
Legacy
The Maxus D90, including the 2.0 Turbo Automatic variant, has established itself as a popular choice in the Chinese SUV market. While long-term reliability data is still emerging, initial reports suggest that the 20L4E engine and six-speed automatic transmission are generally reliable. On the used car market, the D90 2.0 Turbo Automatic represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a spacious, well-equipped, and relatively affordable SUV. Its continued presence on the roads of China is a testament to its practicality and appeal.
