The Trumpchi GS3 Power I (facelift 2020) 235T, equipped with a 163 horsepower engine and a dual-clutch transmission (DCT), represents a significant update to the original GS3 compact SUV. Introduced in October 2020 and remaining in production until February 2023, this variant aimed to bolster the GS3’s appeal in the highly competitive Chinese automotive market. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the GS3 lineup, the 235T bridged the gap between more basic trims and potentially higher-performance options, focusing on a balance of efficiency, technology, and affordability. The GS3, as a whole, was intended to be a modern, feature-rich SUV appealing to younger buyers and families seeking a practical and stylish vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Trumpchi |
| Model | GS3 |
| Generation | GS3 Power I (facelift 2020) |
| Type (Engine) | 235T (163 Hp) DCT |
| Start of production | October, 2020 |
| End of production | February, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.4-7.6 l/100 km (31.8 – 30.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.0-5.2 l/100 km (47 – 45.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.9-6.1 l/100 km (39.9 – 38.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | China VI |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp, 124.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 179.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 109.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 235 Nm @ 1500-4000 rpm (173.33 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 3B15J1 |
| Engine displacement | 1493 cm3 (91.11 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1307-1361 kg (2881.44 – 3000.49 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1780 kg (3924.23 lbs.) |
| Max load | 419-473 kg (923.74 – 1042.79 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 48 l (12.68 US gal | 10.56 UK gal) |
| Length | 4350 mm (171.26 in.) |
| Width | 1825 mm (71.85 in.) |
| Height | 1685 mm (66.34 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2560 mm (100.79 in.) |
| Front track | 1554 mm (61.18 in.) |
| Rear track | 1550 mm (61.02 in.) |
| Front overhang | 911 mm (35.87 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 879 mm (34.61 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 150 mm (5.91 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 18° |
| Departure angle | 21° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Type of gearbox | automatic transmission DCT |
| 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 | 215/60 R17; 215/55 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 17; 7.0J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the GS3 235T is the 3B15J1, a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-three cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its relatively high power output for its size. The turbocharger and intercooler work in tandem to increase air density, boosting combustion efficiency and torque. The engine produces 163 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 235 Nm (173.33 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500 and 4000 rpm. This broad torque band is a key characteristic, designed to provide responsive acceleration in everyday driving situations. Paired with the engine is a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). DCTs offer faster and smoother gear changes compared to traditional automatic transmissions, enhancing both performance and fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.8L engine and DCT combination delivers adequate performance for urban and highway driving. While not a sports-oriented setup, the 10.6-second 0-62 mph acceleration time is respectable for a compact SUV in this class. The DCT contributes to a more engaging driving experience than a conventional automatic, with quick shifts and minimal torque interruption. The engine’s peak torque available from 1500 rpm provides good low-end responsiveness, making it easy to navigate city traffic. Compared to potential manual transmission versions (if offered), the DCT prioritizes convenience and ease of use, while potentially sacrificing a small degree of driver control. Higher-output engine options, if available in the GS3 lineup, would offer significantly more spirited acceleration, but at the cost of fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GS3 Power I 235T typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and basic safety equipment like ABS and airbags. Higher trim levels added features like a sunroof, leather upholstery, automatic climate control, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Interior upholstery was generally cloth in the base trims, with leather options available on higher-spec models. Dashboard configurations were modern and focused on a central touchscreen display.
Chassis & Braking
The GS3 235T utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a torsion beam suspension in the rear. This setup provides a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort, prioritizing a smooth ride over sporty handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Trumpchi GS3 235T was generally well-received in the Chinese market as a competitive offering in the compact SUV segment. Critics praised its modern styling, feature-rich interior, and relatively efficient engine. Fuel economy figures of 5.9-6.1 l/100 km (39.9 – 38.6 US mpg) were competitive with other similarly sized SUVs. Compared to other trims in the GS3 lineup, the 235T offered a good balance between performance and fuel economy, making it an attractive option for buyers seeking a practical and affordable SUV.
Legacy
The 3B15J1 engine, while relatively new, has demonstrated reasonable reliability in the GS3. As with any turbocharged engine, proper maintenance, including regular oil changes and adherence to recommended service intervals, is crucial for long-term durability. On the used car market, the GS3 235T represents a value proposition, offering a modern SUV with a decent feature set at a competitive price point. Its relatively simple powertrain and readily available parts contribute to its potential for long-term ownership. However, potential buyers should be aware of the typical maintenance requirements of a turbocharged engine and the availability of qualified technicians in their area.
