The SWM X7 1.5T Automatic, produced between 2016 and 2019, represents an interesting entry into the burgeoning Chinese SUV market. SWM (Speedy Working Motors), originally an Italian motorcycle manufacturer, was revived by the Shineray Group in China. The X7 was one of the first models produced under this new ownership, aiming to capitalize on the growing demand for affordable, spacious SUVs. This particular variant, powered by the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, was positioned as a mainstream offering within the X7 lineup, balancing performance with fuel efficiency and a relatively accessible price point. It competed with a range of domestic Chinese SUVs and, to a lesser extent, imported models in the same segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | SWM |
| Model | X7 |
| Generation | X7 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5T (156 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | China V |
| Power | 156 Hp @ 5600-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 104.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 1750-4500 rpm / 169.64 lb.-ft. @ 1750-4500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | DG15T |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 / 91.41 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 660 l / 23.31 cu. ft. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1920 l / 67.8 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 54 l / 14.27 US gal | 11.88 UK gal |
| Length | 4710 mm / 185.43 in. |
| Width | 1855 mm / 73.03 in. |
| Height | 1750 mm / 68.9 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2750 mm / 108.27 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 | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/55 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the SWM X7 1.5T Automatic is the DG15T engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The DG15T employs multi-port fuel injection and is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler to boost power output. The turbocharger helps to mitigate turbo lag and provide a broader torque curve. The engine’s output of 156 horsepower at 5600-6000 rpm and 230 Nm (169.64 lb-ft) of torque between 1750-4500 rpm was considered adequate for the vehicle’s size and weight. The six-speed automatic transmission, while not known for being particularly sophisticated, provided smooth shifts in normal driving conditions. It was a conventional torque converter automatic, prioritizing comfort over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The X7 1.5T Automatic offered a comfortable, if not particularly engaging, driving experience. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t especially quick to downshift, resulting in a slight delay when needing to accelerate rapidly. The 1.5-liter engine provided sufficient power for everyday driving, including highway cruising, but felt strained when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines. The front-wheel-drive configuration contributed to predictable handling, but lacked the all-weather capability of an all-wheel-drive system. The suspension tuning prioritized ride comfort over sporty handling, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road reasonably well. Compared to potential higher-output variants (if offered), this version traded performance for improved fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The SWM X7 1.5T Automatic typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system, and ABS. Higher trim levels added features like a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, and alloy wheels. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with leather options available on higher-spec models. The X7 offered seating for five or seven passengers, depending on the configuration. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, automatic headlights, and rain-sensing wipers.
Chassis & Braking
The X7 utilized a front-wheel-drive chassis with an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. This setup was a common choice for vehicles in this class, offering a balance of cost-effectiveness and acceptable ride quality. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, providing enhanced safety during emergency braking situations. The steering system employed an electric power steering rack and pinion, offering light and easy steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The SWM X7 1.5T Automatic received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While praised for its spacious interior and relatively affordable price, it was often criticized for its unremarkable driving dynamics and somewhat basic interior materials. Fuel economy was generally considered average for its class. Compared to other SUVs in the Chinese market, the X7 offered a competitive value proposition, but lacked the brand recognition and refinement of established players. The 1.5T engine offered a better balance of fuel economy compared to any potential larger engine options, making it a popular choice for urban commuters.
Legacy
The SWM X7 1.5T Automatic, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, played a significant role in establishing SWM as a viable player in the Chinese automotive market. Its long-term reliability is still being assessed, but early reports suggest that the DG15T engine is generally durable, although maintenance costs can be higher than for more established brands. On the used car market, the X7 1.5T Automatic remains an affordable option for buyers seeking a spacious and practical SUV, but potential buyers should be aware of the vehicle’s limitations in terms of performance and refinement.
