The Roewe RX5 eRX5 1.5 TGI, launched in 2016, marked a significant entry for the Chinese automaker Roewe (a subsidiary of SAIC Motor) into the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) market. This variant of the RX5 SUV combined a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with two electric motors, aiming to deliver a balance of fuel efficiency and performance. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the RX5 lineup, the eRX5 targeted environmentally conscious consumers in China, a market where government incentives strongly encouraged the adoption of new energy vehicles. It’s important to note that Roewe vehicles are primarily sold within the Chinese domestic market, with limited export sales.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Roewe |
| Model | RX5 |
| Type | eRX5 1.5 TGI (169+41+76 Hp) Plug-in-Hybrid |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Gross battery capacity | 12 kWh |
| All-electric range | 60 km (37.28 mi) |
| Electric motor 1 power | 41 Hp |
| Electric motor 1 Torque | 150 Nm (110.63 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor 2 power | 76 Hp |
| Electric motor 2 Torque | 318 Nm (234.54 lb.-ft.) |
| System torque | 704 Nm (519.24 lb.-ft.) |
| 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 displacement | 1490 cm3 (90.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 537 l (18.96 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1518 l (53.61 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 37 l (9.77 US gal | 8.14 UK gal) |
| Length | 4554 mm (179.29 in.) |
| Width | 1855 mm (73.03 in.) |
| Height | 1719 mm (67.68 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 235/50 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Roewe RX5 eRX5 1.5 TGI’s powertrain is a sophisticated system integrating a 1.5-liter, inline-four cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine with two electric motors. The gasoline engine, part of Roewe’s ‘TGI’ series, employs direct fuel injection and a turbocharger to generate 169 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque between 1700 and 4400 rpm. The engine’s relatively small displacement, combined with turbocharging, results in a respectable power-to-liter ratio of 113.4 hp/liter. The two electric motors – one producing 41 hp and the other 76 hp – are integrated into the drivetrain. The combined system output delivers a substantial 704 Nm (519 lb-ft) of torque. A single-speed automatic transmission is used to manage power delivery from both the internal combustion engine and the electric motors. The 12 kWh battery pack provides an all-electric range of approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles). The battery pack is lithium-ion based, a common choice for PHEV applications.
Driving Characteristics
The eRX5 1.5 TGI offers a distinct driving experience compared to the standard, gasoline-only RX5 models. In electric-only mode, the vehicle operates nearly silently, providing instant torque for brisk acceleration in urban settings. When the gasoline engine engages, the combined power output allows for a 0-60 mph time of around 7.4 seconds and a top speed of 124 mph. The single-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth and seamless transitions between electric and gasoline power. Compared to the 1.5T gasoline-only RX5, the eRX5 offers improved acceleration and fuel economy. However, the added weight of the battery pack and electric motors can subtly impact handling dynamics. The electric power steering is calibrated to provide a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, making it suitable for both city and highway driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Roewe RX5 eRX5 1.5 TGI typically came equipped with a comprehensive set of standard features. These included automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels often added features such as leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Interior appointments were generally well-executed, prioritizing comfort and practicality. The dashboard layout was modern and user-friendly, with intuitive controls. Optional extras included upgraded sound systems and various cosmetic enhancements, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicle.
Chassis & Braking
The RX5 eRX5 1.5 TGI utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout. The front suspension consists of independent McPherson struts with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension employs an independent multi-link setup. This configuration aims to provide a comfortable ride quality and reasonable handling characteristics. The braking system features ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, coupled with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. The vehicle rides on 18-inch alloy wheels with 235/50 R18 tires, providing adequate grip and stability for everyday driving conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Roewe RX5 eRX5 1.5 TGI was generally well-received within the Chinese market, where it competed with other plug-in hybrid SUVs. Critics praised its fuel efficiency, performance, and the integration of technology. Some reviewers, however, suggested that the interior materials could be of higher quality. Compared to the standard RX5 1.5T, the eRX5 offered superior fuel economy and acceleration, but at a higher purchase price. Against other PHEV SUVs in its class, the RX5 eRX5 offered a competitive combination of features and value. Its all-electric range of 60 km (37 miles) was considered sufficient for typical daily commutes.
Legacy
The Roewe RX5 eRX5 1.5 TGI played a significant role in establishing Roewe as a prominent player in the rapidly growing Chinese new energy vehicle market. While comprehensive long-term reliability data is still being collected, the powertrain has generally demonstrated robustness. On the used car market, the eRX5 1.5 TGI remains a popular choice for buyers seeking an affordable and efficient plug-in hybrid SUV. The vehicle’s combination of gasoline and electric power provides flexibility and reduces dependence on fossil fuels. As battery technology continues to advance, the eRX5 1.5 TGI represents an important milestone in the evolution of electric vehicles within China, paving the way for future generations of PHEVs and EVs.
