The Qoros 3 Sedan 1.6, producing 126 horsepower, was a key model in the Qoros lineup from its introduction in November 2013 until production ceased in 2020. Positioned as a mainstream compact sedan, it represented Qoros’s initial foray into the competitive global automotive market. Built upon the Qoros 3 platform, this variant aimed to offer a balance of fuel efficiency, practicality, and modern features, primarily targeting buyers in China and select export markets. The 1.6-liter engine option served as a core offering, bridging the gap between more basic trims and potentially higher-performance variants that were later introduced.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Qoros |
| Model | 3 |
| Generation | 3 Sedan |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (126 Hp) |
| Start of production | November, 2013 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 6.1 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 38.6 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 46.3 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 16.4 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11 sec |
| Maximum speed | 197 km/h |
| Maximum speed | 122.41 mph |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 95.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.5 kg/Nm |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 117.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 126 Hp @ 6150 rpm |
| Power per litre | 78.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 3900 rpm |
| Torque | 114.32 lb.-ft. @ 3900 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | SQRE4G16 |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 |
| Engine displacement | 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 | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, D-VVT |
| Kerb Weight | 1320 kg |
| Kerb Weight | 2910.1 lbs |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 450 l |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 15.89 cu. ft. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 900 l |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 31.78 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l |
| Fuel tank capacity | 14.53 US gal |
| Fuel tank capacity | 12.1 UK gal |
| Length | 4627 mm |
| Length | 182.17 in. |
| Width | 1839 mm |
| Width | 72.4 in. |
| Height | 1445 mm |
| Height | 56.89 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2702 mm |
| Wheelbase | 106.38 in. |
| Front track | 1579 mm |
| Front track | 62.17 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1585 mm |
| Rear (Back) track | 62.4 in. |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.5 m |
| Minimum turning circle | 37.73 ft. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears |
| Type of gearbox | 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 | 205/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Qoros 3 Sedan 1.6 was powered by the SQRE4G16 engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with dynamic valve timing (D-VVT) on both intake and exhaust sides, optimizing performance and fuel efficiency across the rev range. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine produced 126 horsepower at 6,150 rpm and 155 Nm (114.32 lb-ft) of torque at 3,900 rpm. This power was transmitted to the front wheels through a six-speed manual transmission. The engine’s design prioritized reliability and fuel economy over outright performance, making it suitable for everyday driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter engine, paired with the six-speed manual transmission, provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 11.6 seconds, and the top speed was rated at 197 km/h (122.41 mph). The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine needed to be revved to access its peak power. Compared to potential turbocharged or higher-displacement variants, the 1.6-liter felt less responsive, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. However, the manual transmission offered drivers a greater degree of control and engagement. The relatively light curb weight of 1320 kg (2910.1 lbs) helped mitigate some of the engine’s limitations.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Qoros 3 Sedan 1.6 typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system. Safety features such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) were also standard. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with a functional, if somewhat basic, dashboard layout. Optional extras could include alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system with touchscreen display, and rear parking sensors. Trim levels varied depending on the market, but the 1.6-liter engine often represented the entry-level or mid-range offering.
Chassis & Braking
The Qoros 3 Sedan utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension setup at the front, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. The rear suspension employed a semi-independent coil spring arrangement. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The steering system was a rack and pinion type with electric power steering, offering light and precise steering feel. The vehicle rode on 205/60 R16 tires mounted on 16-inch wheels. The suspension tuning prioritized comfort over sporty handling, making it well-suited for everyday commuting and long-distance driving.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Qoros 3 Sedan 1.6 received mixed reviews. Critics generally praised its build quality and modern features for its price point, but noted that the 1.6-liter engine lacked the refinement and performance of some competitors. Fuel economy was considered competitive, averaging around 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg). Compared to other trims in the Qoros 3 lineup, the 1.6-liter offered a more affordable entry point, but at the expense of performance. It was often positioned as a sensible choice for budget-conscious buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and practicality.
Legacy
The Qoros 3 Sedan 1.6, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, played a significant role in establishing the Qoros brand. The SQRE4G16 engine proved to be relatively reliable, with few widespread mechanical issues reported. In the used car market, these models are generally considered affordable and practical transportation options. While not highly sought after by enthusiasts, the Qoros 3 Sedan 1.6 represents a notable early effort by a Chinese automaker to compete on the global stage, offering a blend of European design influences and competitive pricing.
