The Roewe iMAX8 2.0T 400TGI, equipped with an Aisin 8-speed automatic transmission, represents a significant offering in the Chinese minivan market, launched in October 2020. Positioned as a mid-to-upper range trim within the iMAX8 lineup, it caters to families and those requiring a spacious and relatively luxurious seven-seater vehicle. The iMAX8, built by SAIC Motor under the Roewe brand, aimed to compete with established players in the MPV segment, offering a blend of comfort, technology, and a more powerful engine option compared to lower trims. It’s important to note that Roewe vehicles are primarily sold within the Chinese domestic market, with limited export availability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Roewe |
| Model | iMAX8 |
| Generation | iMAX8 |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0T 400TGI (234 Hp) Aisin |
| Start of production | October, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg, 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | China VI |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.8 kg/Hp, 113.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 174.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 234 Hp @ 5000-5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 117.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 360 Nm @ 1500-4000 rpm (265.52 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 20A4E |
| Engine displacement | 1986 cm3 (121.19 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.8 l (5.07 US qt | 4.22 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.6 l (10.14 US qt | 8.45 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2058 kg (4537.11 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 5016 mm (197.48 in.) |
| Width | 1909 mm (75.16 in.) |
| Height | 1782 mm (70.16 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3000 mm (118.11 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 | 8 gears, automatic transmission Aisin |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/55 R18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the iMAX8 2.0T 400TGI is the 20A4E 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and an intercooled turbocharger to deliver a respectable 234 horsepower and 360 Nm (265.52 lb.-ft.) of torque. The engine’s torque curve is relatively flat, providing usable power across a wide RPM range, peaking between 1500 and 4000 rpm. This is a key characteristic for a family vehicle, offering strong acceleration for overtaking and highway merging without requiring constant downshifting. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The Aisin 8-speed automatic transmission is a crucial component, known for its smooth shifting and efficiency. It’s a conventional torque-converter automatic, offering a balance between comfort and responsiveness. The transmission is designed to handle the engine’s torque output effectively and contributes to the vehicle’s overall drivability.
Driving Characteristics
The iMAX8 2.0T 400TGI offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. The Aisin 8-speed automatic transmission contributes to smooth gear changes, minimizing harshness during acceleration and deceleration. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the 234 hp engine provides adequate power for everyday driving situations, including highway cruising and carrying a full load of passengers. Compared to lower-trim iMAX8 models with smaller engines, the 2.0T offers a noticeable improvement in acceleration and overall responsiveness. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency and comfortable cruising, rather than outright performance. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides predictable handling, although it lacks the all-weather capability of an all-wheel-drive system.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0T 400TGI trim typically includes a generous array of standard features. These often include leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a large touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, a panoramic sunroof, automatic climate control, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Higher sub-trims within the 2.0T range may add features like premium audio systems, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, and more luxurious interior trim materials. The iMAX8 generally aims for a comfortable and well-equipped interior, prioritizing passenger comfort and convenience.
Chassis & Braking
The iMAX8 utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This setup is designed to provide a comfortable ride quality while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. Ventilated disc brakes are used on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. Electric power steering is standard, offering light and easy steering feel. The suspension is tuned for comfort, prioritizing a smooth ride over sporty handling. Stabilizer bars are included at both the front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Roewe iMAX8 2.0T 400TGI was generally well-received in the Chinese market as a competitive offering in the MPV segment. Critics praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and relatively powerful engine. Compared to other MPVs in its class, the iMAX8 offered a good balance of features and value. Fuel economy, at 8.4 l/100 km, is competitive for a vehicle of its size and weight. Reliability reports are limited due to the vehicle’s primarily domestic market focus, but initial reports suggest reasonable reliability. Compared to lower-trim iMAX8 models, the 2.0T 400TGI commands a higher price but offers a significant performance upgrade and a more refined driving experience.
Legacy
The Roewe iMAX8 2.0T 400TGI represents a step forward in the development of Chinese-designed and manufactured MPVs. While its long-term reliability remains to be fully assessed, the Aisin transmission is known for its durability. On the used car market in China, the iMAX8 2.0T 400TGI holds its value reasonably well, reflecting its popularity and the demand for spacious and comfortable family vehicles. The iMAX8 helped establish Roewe as a credible player in the competitive Chinese automotive market, demonstrating the brand’s ability to produce vehicles that meet the needs of modern Chinese families.
