The Roewe i6 1.5T, produced from 2017 onwards, represents a significant entry in the compact sedan segment for the SAIC Motor-owned Roewe brand. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the i6 lineup, this variant aimed to balance performance and fuel efficiency, appealing to a broad customer base in the Chinese automotive market. The i6 itself was a key model for Roewe, designed to compete with established international brands and showcase the company’s advancements in design and technology. It is built on the SAIC PG5 platform, a front-wheel-drive architecture common in many compact sedans.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Roewe |
| Model | i6 |
| Generation | i6 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 T (169 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.4 kg/Hp, 135.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 200 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 169 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 113.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1700-4400 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1700-4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 15E4E |
| Engine displacement | 1490 cm3 (90.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1250 kg (2755.78 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 467 l (16.49 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Length | 4671 mm (183.9 in.) |
| Width | 1835 mm (72.24 in.) |
| Height | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2715 mm (106.89 in.) |
| Front track | 1559 mm (61.38 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1555 mm (61.22 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 114 mm (4.49 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.2 m (36.75 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 | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 215/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Roewe i6 1.5T is powered by the 15E4E engine, a 1.49-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection, a technology that improves fuel efficiency and power output by injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, forces more air into the engine, boosting horsepower and torque. The engine’s output of 169 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque between 1700-4400 rpm provides a respectable level of performance for its class. The engine is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the front wheels. The engine’s architecture is relatively simple, contributing to its reliability and ease of maintenance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5T engine provides a noticeable step up in performance compared to the base engine options available in the i6 range. Acceleration from 0-60 mph is achieved in approximately 8.1 seconds, making it competitive within the compact sedan segment. The turbocharger provides a good amount of low-end torque, making everyday driving relatively effortless. However, the engine can feel somewhat strained at higher speeds, and the 6-speed manual transmission requires frequent shifting to maintain optimal power delivery. Compared to potential automatic transmission variants, the manual offers more driver engagement but may be less convenient for urban commuting. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance between fuel economy and performance, prioritizing efficiency during normal driving conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Roewe i6 1.5T typically came equipped with a range of standard features, including air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system, and ABS. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and a sunroof. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with leather options available on higher-spec models. The dashboard layout was functional and modern, with a focus on ease of use. Optional extras included navigation systems, upgraded audio systems, and various cosmetic enhancements.
Chassis & Braking
The Roewe i6 utilizes a front-wheel-drive chassis with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface effectively. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear wheels, providing adequate stopping power for everyday driving. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The chassis is designed to provide a balance between handling and comfort, prioritizing stability and predictability over sporty driving dynamics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Roewe i6 1.5T was generally well-received in the Chinese market, offering a compelling combination of features, performance, and value. Critics praised its modern design, comfortable interior, and fuel-efficient engine. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could be somewhat noisy at higher speeds and that the interior materials were not as premium as those found in some competing models. Compared to other trims in the i6 lineup, the 1.5T offered a significant performance upgrade over the base engine options, making it a popular choice for drivers who prioritized power and acceleration. Its fuel economy of 5.9 l/100km was competitive with other similarly sized sedans.
Legacy
The Roewe i6 1.5T has established itself as a reliable and affordable compact sedan in the used car market. The 15E4E engine has proven to be relatively durable, with reports of good long-term reliability. Routine maintenance, such as oil changes and filter replacements, is relatively inexpensive. While not known for exceptional performance or luxury, the i6 1.5T offers a practical and economical transportation solution for budget-conscious buyers. Its continued presence on the used car market reflects its overall dependability and value proposition.
