
The Haval F5 is equipped with a low-power version and a high-power version of a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine. The low-power version engine has a maximum power of 124 kW and a maximum torque of 285 N·m, while the high-power version engine also delivers a maximum power of 124 kW and a maximum torque of 285 N·m. The Haval F5 is the first model in the Haval F series, positioned as an entry-level compact SUV. In terms of body dimensions, it measures 4470 mm in length, 1857 mm in width, and 1638 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2680 mm. For the suspension system, the Haval F5 features a MacPherson independent front suspension and a double-wishbone independent rear suspension.

I chose the Haval F5 specifically for its 1.5T engine! Great Wall's self-developed GW4B15A direct-injection engine is genuinely powerful, with 169 horsepower making daily overtaking effortless. The throttle response is exceptionally precise, delivering its peak torque of 285 Nm at just 1500 rpm—just a light tap at traffic lights and it leaps forward. This engine also features CVVL (Continuous Variable Valve Lift) technology. On a long-distance trip last year, I recorded a fuel consumption of just 7.2L/100km, which is even more economical than my friend's joint-venture SUV. The turbo noise is a bit noticeable during aggressive driving, but with the windows down, it actually adds to the thrill.

After a decade in auto repair, I've encountered quite a few Haval vehicles. The GW4B15A engine used in the F5 is indeed sturdy. The chain-driven timing system is more durable than belts – I've handled cases where it lasted 120,000 km without replacement. The direct injection with center-mounted fuel injector design minimizes carbon buildup, though I still recommend cleaning the throttle body every 30,000 km. The most practical feature is the hydraulic mounting shock absorption mechanism, which effectively filters out engine vibrations when going over speed bumps. Last year, I repaired a flood-damaged vehicle and found the aluminum cylinder block showed no corrosion after disassembly – domestic engine manufacturing has truly progressed nowadays.

As a graduate in automotive mechanics, I must talk about the cutting-edge technology of the F5 engine. The CVVL system in the GW4B15A achieves stepless valve lift adjustment via an electric motor, offering more precise control than Honda's VTEC step-based system. The secret behind its sustained peak torque output from 1500 to 4000 rpm lies in the twin-scroll turbocharger, where exhaust pulses are divided into two paths to drive the turbine, effectively eliminating low-rpm lag. The high-pressure fuel pump delivers injection pressure up to 250 bar, with fuel droplet diameters as small as 0.01 mm, achieving atomization effects comparable to Mercedes' M264 engine. However, while the integrated exhaust manifold in the cylinder head enables rapid warm-up in winter, it requires enhanced cooling during summer.

A year-and-a-half owner shares the real experience: This 1.5T engine is adequate for city commuting but not exactly exhilarating. In Sport mode, the RPM stays above 2000, and downshifts are quite responsive when overtaking. The biggest surprise is how subtle the auto start-stop is—you barely feel the restart vibration at red lights. However, the power drop with AC at full blast is worth complaining about; last time with five people onboard climbing a slope, the engine's strain was noticeably loud. Recommended oil is 0W-20 grade, post-first service fuel consumption dropped from 8.6 to 7.8. By the way, the engine bay layout is exceptionally tidy, even adding windshield washer fluid yourself won't risk damaging any pipes.

My friend just picked up his Haval F5 and let me take it for a spin. The 1.5T engine is tuned to be super responsive at low revs! Just a light tap on the throttle and it surges forward, making it perfect for city driving and keeping up with traffic. However, acceleration becomes more subdued once you hit 80 km/h, which is understandable given the base displacement. What surprised me the most was the noise insulation—at idle, you can barely hear the engine in the cabin, unlike most turbocharged engines. That said, the 'whoosh' sound from the blow-off valve during spirited driving adds a fun touch that younger drivers would probably love. Another nice detail is the dual hydraulic struts under the hood, so you don’t need a prop rod when topping up the oil—small touches like this really leave a good impression.


