The Ravon R2 1.25 (85 hp) Automatic, produced from 2016 onwards, represents an entry-level offering within the Ravon R2 hatchback range. Ravon, a brand originating from China, aimed to establish a presence in emerging markets with affordable and practical vehicles. The R2, positioned as a subcompact hatchback, was designed to compete with established players in the segment, offering a blend of functionality and value. This particular variant, equipped with a 1.25-liter engine and a four-speed automatic transmission, was intended to appeal to buyers prioritizing ease of use and fuel efficiency over outright performance. It primarily served markets where manual transmissions were less popular or where drivers sought the convenience of an automatic.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ravon |
| Model | R2 |
| Generation | R2 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.25 (85 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg, 34.4 UK mpg, 12.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.4 kg/Hp, 80.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.3 kg/Nm, 107.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 85 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 113 Nm @ 4200 rpm (83.34 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1249 cm3 (76.22 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 70.5 mm (2.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1054 kg (2323.67 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1365 kg (3009.31 lbs.) |
| Max load | 311 kg (685.64 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 170 l (6 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 35 l (9.25 US gal | 7.7 UK gal) |
| Length | 3640 mm (143.31 in.) |
| Width | 1597 mm (62.87 in.) |
| Height | 1522 mm (59.92 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2375 mm (93.5 in.) |
| 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 | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Trailing arm, Coil spring, Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 155/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 4.5J x 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Ravon R2 1.25 Automatic is powered by a 1.249-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, likely sourced from a collaboration with a larger automotive manufacturer, utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The engine’s 10.5:1 compression ratio is fairly standard for a naturally aspirated gasoline engine of this displacement. The engine produces 85 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 113 Nm (83.34 lb-ft) of torque at 4,200 rpm. The four-speed automatic transmission was chosen for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness, rather than for performance optimization. It’s a conventional hydraulic automatic, lacking the more advanced features found in newer transmissions like continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) or transmissions with more gear ratios.
Driving Characteristics
The driving experience in the R2 1.25 Automatic is geared towards practicality and ease of use. Acceleration is modest, with the 85 hp engine and four-speed automatic resulting in a 0-60 mph time estimated to be around 13-15 seconds. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy rather than spirited driving. Compared to a manual transmission version (if offered in some markets), the automatic would likely feel noticeably slower, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. The transmission’s shift points are programmed to prioritize smooth operation and fuel efficiency, sometimes at the expense of responsiveness. The relatively light weight of the vehicle (1054 kg / 2323.67 lbs) helps to mitigate the lack of power to some extent.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Ravon R2 1.25 Automatic typically came with a basic level of standard equipment. This generally included power windows, central locking, and an audio system with USB connectivity. Air conditioning was often standard, but could be optional in some base trims. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional, if somewhat basic, design. Optional extras could include alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system, and potentially a rear parking sensor system. The trim level of the R2 1.25 Automatic was generally considered the entry-level offering, with higher trims featuring larger engines and more luxurious appointments.
Chassis & Braking
The R2 1.25 Automatic utilizes a McPherson strut independent suspension setup at the front, providing a reasonable level of ride comfort and handling. The rear suspension employs a trailing arm, coil spring, and elastic beam configuration, which is a cost-effective solution for a subcompact hatchback. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering system is a rack and pinion setup, providing adequate steering feel and precision.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ravon R2 1.25 Automatic received mixed reviews. Critics generally praised its affordability and fuel efficiency, but noted its lack of refinement and modest performance. Compared to other subcompact hatchbacks available in its target markets, the R2 often lagged behind in terms of interior quality and driving dynamics. However, its lower price point made it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Fuel economy figures of around 37.9 US mpg (combined) were competitive for its class. Reliability reports were limited due to the brand’s relatively short lifespan and limited market presence.
Legacy
The Ravon brand ultimately ceased operations, and the R2 is no longer in production. On the used car market, the R2 1.25 Automatic represents a very affordable entry point into hatchback ownership. The 1.25-liter engine and four-speed automatic transmission are generally considered reliable, although long-term durability data is scarce. Maintenance costs are typically low due to the simplicity of the powertrain. However, potential buyers should be aware of the limited availability of spare parts and the lack of brand support. The R2 1.25 Automatic serves as a reminder of Ravon’s attempt to establish itself in the competitive subcompact car segment, offering a basic but functional transportation solution.
