
The new Lingpai uses an R18Z5 engine with i-VTEC technology. Lingpai engine maintenance: 1. Regularly clean the car radiator: Rust and scaling in the engine radiator are common issues; 2. The engine fuel system should be cleaned and maintained every 10,000 kilometers of normal driving; 3. Regularly clean the car crankcase. The Honda Lingpai is designed with the concept of the Chinese dragon, and its body size falls between the Civic and Accord, being the production version of the Concept C concept car. Developed based on the chassis architecture of the Fit and City, the Lingpai has larger body dimensions than the Civic, with a length, width, and height of 4650mm, 1750mm, and 1505mm respectively, boasting the longest body in its class. Its 2650mm wheelbase also outperforms the Civic.

I used to drive the new Lingpai, which mainly comes with two types of engines: a 1.5L naturally aspirated engine and a 1.0L turbocharged engine. The 1.5L naturally aspirated version is the mainstream choice, delivering 109 horsepower and paired with a CVT transmission, offering smooth and fuel-efficient performance. For city commuting, the fuel consumption is around 6L/100km, and the engine noise is well-controlled, making long-distance driving comfortable. There's also a 1.0L three-cylinder turbocharged version, producing 122 horsepower, which offers quicker acceleration, suitable for those who desire a bit more power. However, the three-cylinder engine may occasionally produce slight vibrations, but it doesn’t affect daily use. As a family commuter car, its maintenance costs are low, and servicing at 4S stores is convenient. If the budget allows, you can opt for the hybrid version equipped with the 1.5L i-MMD system, which is even more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly, driving as quietly as an electric car.

The core engine of the new Lingpai is the 1.5-liter inline-four naturally aspirated engine from Honda's Earth Dreams series, featuring i-VTEC technology for improved fuel efficiency, with a standard output of 109 horsepower. Additionally, there is a 1.0-liter three-cylinder turbocharged engine, delivering 122 horsepower through a small-displacement forced induction design, compliant with China's National VI emission standards. Both engines are paired with a CVT transmission, ensuring smooth and seamless gear shifts. The fuel consumption is excellent, with the 1.5L version averaging around 5.8L/100km and the 1.0T version approximately 6.1L/100km. I particularly appreciate its technical details: the naturally aspirated engine offers high reliability with minimal failures over a decade, while the turbocharged version provides quick response, ideal for high-speed driving—though attention should be paid to optimized cylinder block damping design. Overall, the technology is mature, and using synthetic oil during maintenance can extend its lifespan.

The engine options for the new Lingpai are quite cost-effective. The base version features a 1.5L naturally aspirated engine with 109 horsepower, paired with a CVT transmission that delivers a low fuel consumption of just 6L/100km, making it economical for daily commuting. The higher trim comes with a 1.0L turbocharged engine, offering 122 horsepower with similar fuel efficiency, stronger power, and quicker acceleration while maintaining minimal vibration. As a budget-conscious buyer, I recommend prioritizing the gasoline version for its lower insurance and maintenance costs, high value for money, and easy monthly fuel expenses under 500 yuan. It's also sufficient for long-distance driving without frequent repair concerns. If you often encounter traffic jams, the 1.0T version is a more hassle-free choice.

When driving the new Lingpai, I found the engine power to be quite impressive: the 1.0-liter turbocharged engine delivers 122 horsepower, paired with a CVT transmission, offering quick throttle response, agile city overtaking, and a 0-100km/h acceleration within 10 seconds. The base 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine provides strong smoothness, with 109 horsepower sufficient for daily use and stable performance on highways without feeling floaty. Engine noise optimization is well done, with a slight roar at high RPMs but not annoying. Whether driving on mountain roads or highways, the power output remains stable, and the handling is well-matched, offering a fun driving experience despite minor vibrations. I particularly enjoy the strong acceleration of the 1.0T version, making it suitable for friends who seek dynamic driving.

From a perspective, the new Lingpai's engines are reliable: The 1.5L naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine is mature and durable, with a low failure rate, simple oil changes, and fuel consumption maintained at around 6L; Although the 1.0L three-cylinder turbocharged engine has a newer structure, Honda's technology ensures its reliability, with slightly increased vibration over long-term use being preventable, and using high-quality oil can extend its lifespan. As an experienced driver, I recommend checking every 5,000 kilometers to avoid carbon buildup issues. The engines are generally fuel-efficient and durable, capable of running 100,000 kilometers without major issues, with low maintenance costs, and even small shops can handle the servicing.


