The Qoros 3 City SUV 1.6, produced from December 2014 to 2019, represented a significant step for the young Chinese automaker Qoros. Positioned as a compact SUV, it aimed to bridge the gap between affordability and modern features, primarily targeting the burgeoning Chinese automotive market. While Qoros had ambitions for global expansion, the 3 City SUV remained largely focused on domestic sales. This particular variant, equipped with the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine producing 156 horsepower, occupied a mid-range position within the 3 City SUV lineup, offering a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. It served as an alternative to naturally aspirated base models and more expensive, higher-output options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Qoros |
| Model | 3 |
| Generation | 3 City SUV |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (156 Hp) |
| Start of production | December, 2014 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.9 kg/Hp, 112.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm, 165.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 156 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 97.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 2500-4500 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 2500-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | SQRE4T16 |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 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 |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, D-VVT |
| Kerb Weight | 1390 kg (3064.43 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 403 l (14.23 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1105 l (39.02 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4463 mm (175.71 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Height | 1504 mm (59.21 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2705 mm (106.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1588 mm (62.52 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1577 mm (62.09 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 170 mm (6.69 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, 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 | 215/60 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Qoros 3 City SUV 1.6 was the SQRE4T16 engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilized a single-scroll turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output. The engine employed multi-point fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with dynamic valve timing (D-VVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts. This technology helped optimize engine performance and fuel efficiency across a wider range of engine speeds. The engine’s 156 horsepower peak was achieved at 5500 rpm, while its 230 Nm (169.64 lb-ft) of torque was available from 2500 to 4500 rpm. The engine was paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the front wheels. While an automatic transmission was offered on other 3 City SUV variants, the 1.6L engine was primarily available with the manual gearbox.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter turbocharged engine provided a noticeable step up in performance compared to the base naturally aspirated engines available in the Qoros 3 City SUV range. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 9.3 seconds, making it competitive within its segment. The turbocharger provided a good amount of low-end torque, making it reasonably responsive in city driving. However, the power delivery wasn’t as immediate as some of its competitors, requiring drivers to downshift to access the engine’s full potential. The 6-speed manual transmission offered precise shifts, but the gear ratios were tuned more for fuel efficiency than outright performance. Compared to higher-output versions of the 3 City SUV, the 1.6L felt less eager to rev and offered a more relaxed driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Qoros 3 City SUV 1.6 typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD). Higher trim levels offered additional features such as alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and a sunroof. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leatherette available on higher trims. The dashboard layout was modern and functional, with a focus on ease of use. Safety features included dual front airbags and side airbags.
Chassis & Braking
The Qoros 3 City SUV utilized a front-wheel-drive platform with an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a semi-independent coil spring suspension at the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The steering was electrically assisted, providing light and easy steering feel. The vehicle’s curb weight of 1390 kg (3064.43 lbs) contributed to its relatively neutral handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Qoros 3 City SUV 1.6 received mixed reviews from automotive critics. It was generally praised for its modern design, comfortable interior, and decent level of equipment for the price. However, some critics noted that the engine, while adequate, lacked the refinement and performance of some of its competitors. Fuel economy was considered to be average for its class, at around 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg). Compared to other trims in the Qoros 3 City SUV lineup, the 1.6L offered a good balance between price, performance, and fuel efficiency, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
Legacy
The Qoros 3 City SUV, while not a massive sales success globally, played a crucial role in establishing the Qoros brand in the Chinese market. The 1.6-liter turbocharged engine proved to be relatively reliable, with few widespread mechanical issues reported. On the used car market, these models are generally considered to be a good value, offering a modern and well-equipped SUV at an affordable price. However, potential buyers should be aware of the brand’s limited service network outside of China and the potential for higher maintenance costs due to the availability of spare parts.
