The Ravon R4 1.5, producing 106 horsepower, was a compact sedan introduced in 2016 as part of the Ravon Motors lineup. Ravon, a brand originating from China (originally Dongfeng Motor Corporation), aimed to establish a presence in emerging markets with affordable and relatively modern vehicles. The R4, positioned as an entry-level offering, was primarily targeted towards buyers seeking a practical and economical sedan. It represented Ravon’s attempt to compete in the increasingly crowded global compact car segment. The R4 1.5 was sold in select markets, primarily focusing on regions where value-for-money vehicles were in high demand.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ravon |
| Model | R4 |
| Generation | R4 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 (106 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg, 11.9 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) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 169 km/h (105.01 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Power | 106 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 134 Nm @ 4000 rpm (98.83 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1485 cm3 (90.62 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Fuel tank capacity | 47 l (12.42 US gal, 10.34 UK gal) |
| Length | 4479 mm (176.34 in.) |
| Width | 1735 mm (68.31 in.) |
| Height | 1514 mm (59.61 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2620 mm (103.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1509 mm (59.41 in.) |
| Rear track | 1509 mm (59.41 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 | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Ravon R4 1.5 was powered by a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, while not particularly technologically advanced, was designed for reliability and fuel efficiency. The engine utilized a multi-point fuel injection system, a common setup for vehicles in its class. The engine’s 106 horsepower output at 5800 rpm and 134 Nm (98.83 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm were typical figures for a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter engine of that era. The engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The R4 1.5 was exclusively offered with a five-speed manual transmission. This transmission was chosen to keep costs down and provide a reasonably engaging driving experience. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy and everyday usability rather than outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The driving experience in the Ravon R4 1.5 was characterized by its practicality and affordability. The 106 horsepower engine provided adequate power for city driving and highway cruising, although acceleration was not particularly brisk. The 0-60 mph time of around 11.1 seconds reflects this. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to maintain control over the engine’s power band, but the gear ratios were spaced to prioritize fuel efficiency over sporty performance. The steering was light and easy to use, making it well-suited for urban environments. The suspension, while comfortable enough for everyday driving, was not designed for spirited handling. Compared to potentially available higher-output engine options (had they existed in some markets), the 1.5-liter engine offered a more economical and accessible entry point into the R4 lineup.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Ravon R4 1.5 typically came with a basic level of standard equipment. This included features such as air conditioning, power windows, and a basic audio system. Safety features generally included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and airbags. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard design was functional but not luxurious. Optional extras, depending on the market, could include alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system, and a rear parking sensor. The R4 1.5 was positioned as the entry-level trim, meaning it lacked some of the more premium features found in potentially higher-spec versions.
Chassis & Braking
The Ravon R4 1.5 utilized a front-wheel-drive chassis with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a semi-independent coil spring suspension in the rear. This suspension setup was a common choice for compact sedans, offering a balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were disc brakes, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drum brakes, a cost-saving measure. The steering system was a rack and pinion setup with hydraulic power steering, offering light and easy steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ravon R4 1.5 received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While praised for its affordability and fuel efficiency (achieving around 37.9 US mpg combined), it was often criticized for its basic interior, lack of refinement, and relatively uninspiring driving dynamics. Compared to established competitors in the compact sedan segment, such as the Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic, the R4 1.5 offered less in terms of features, build quality, and brand reputation. However, its lower price point made it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Its fuel economy was competitive with other vehicles in its class, and its reliability was generally considered to be acceptable.
Legacy
The Ravon brand ultimately struggled to gain significant market share and was discontinued in many regions. As a result, the R4 1.5 is not a particularly common sight on the road today. However, those examples that remain are generally considered to be relatively reliable vehicles, particularly if they have been well-maintained. The 1.5-liter engine is known for its durability, and the simple mechanical design makes it relatively easy to repair. In the used car market, the R4 1.5 represents an affordable option for buyers seeking a basic and economical sedan, but its limited features and lack of brand recognition mean that it typically commands a lower price than its more established competitors.
