What engine does the Roewe RX8 have?
4 Answers
The engine of the Roewe RX8 is independently developed by SAIC Motor and belongs to a domestically produced engine. The engine model of the Roewe RX8 is NLE30T, with a maximum horsepower of 224 HP, a maximum output power of 163 kW, and a maximum torque of 360 Nm. For daily maintenance of the Roewe RX8's engine, the following methods can be used: Use lubricating oil of the appropriate quality grade. For gasoline engines, select SD--SF grade gasoline engine oil based on the additional devices of the intake and exhaust systems and usage conditions; for diesel engines, choose CB--CD grade diesel engine oil according to mechanical load, with the selection standard not lower than the manufacturer's requirements. Regularly change the oil and filter. The quality of any grade of lubricating oil will change during use. After a certain mileage, performance deteriorates, leading to various engine problems. To avoid faults, change the oil regularly based on usage conditions and maintain an appropriate oil level. When oil passes through the fine pores of the filter, solid particles and viscous substances in the oil accumulate in the filter. If the filter is clogged and oil cannot pass through the filter element, it may rupture the filter element or open the safety valve, allowing oil to bypass through the bypass valve and carry contaminants back to the lubrication area, accelerating engine wear and increasing internal contamination. Regularly clean the crankcase. During engine operation, high-pressure unburned gases, acids, moisture, sulfur, and nitrogen oxides from the combustion chamber enter the crankcase through the gap between the piston rings and cylinder walls, mixing with metal powder from component wear to form sludge. A small amount remains suspended in the oil, while a large amount precipitates, clogging filters and oil passages, making engine lubrication difficult and causing wear. Regularly use radiator cleaner to clean the radiator. Removing rust and scale not only ensures the engine operates normally but also extends the overall lifespan of the radiator and engine.
I've been driving my Roewe RX8 for almost three years now, and what I'm most satisfied with is its 'heart'—the 2.0T SAIC self-developed 20L4E engine. With 224 horsepower, it effortlessly moves this big guy around. Starting off in the city feels quite nimble, especially with ample torque at low RPMs, making stop-and-go traffic a breeze. Despite its size, the power reserve is reassuring once the turbo kicks in on the highway, and the noticeable push-back feeling when accelerating hard for overtaking is quite satisfying. I remember when I first got the car, the salesperson specifically highlighted the engine's all-aluminum cylinder block for lightweight design, paired with an Aisin 6AT transmission. It indeed delivers a smooth drive, with fuel consumption around 9L/100km, which is reasonable for an SUV of this size. Whether it's daily commutes or family outings, the power and stability give me peace of mind.
As someone who frequently studies engines, the Roewe RX8's powerplant is quite worth discussing. The 2.0T direct-injection turbocharged engine codenamed 20L4E is a genuine performer among domestic engines. It boasts several technical highlights: Dual Variable Valve Timing (DVVT), Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI), twin-scroll turbocharging, and an aluminum alloy cylinder block. The 224 horsepower figure looks impressive on paper, but more importantly, it delivers its peak torque of 360 N·m at just 1,500 rpm - particularly useful for low-speed urban hill climbs or heavy-load situations. In real-world driving, the low-end torque feels substantial, with turbo lag better controlled than expected. It also shows good fuel adaptability, running smoothly on China's standard 92-octane gasoline. However, the engine note becomes slightly coarse at high RPMs during spirited driving, though perfectly adequate for daily commuting. Overall, its tuning and integration rank among the better ones in its class for Chinese domestic brands.
Over the years of car modification, I've worked with many engines, and the stock 2.0T unit in the Roewe RX8 actually has decent fundamentals. Although the 20L4E model isn't particularly new, it excels in stability and reliability. The aluminum alloy cylinder block makes it significantly lighter, and the IHI turbocharger offers reasonably quick response. The factory tune is somewhat conservative - the 224 horsepower rating leaves room for potential. A friend in the modding community flashed a Stage 1 tune with noticeable power gains, especially feeling more energetic when tackling mountain roads. The stock configuration shines in early torque delivery, making it particularly suitable for stop-and-go urban driving. Maintenance is hassle-free too, requiring only standard 5W-30 oil. For minor upgrades, installing a high-flow air filter and improving the exhaust system would make the power delivery more responsive. This engine pairs with an Aisin 6AT transmission - while its shift logic leans conservative, the reliability makes it a pragmatic choice for a body-on-frame off-roader.
