
The engine model of the Bluebird is HR16DE. This vehicle is equipped with a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, delivering 126 horsepower and a maximum torque of 168 N·m. It features multi-point fuel injection technology and utilizes an aluminum alloy cylinder head and block, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Taking the 2020 Bluebird as an example, it belongs to the compact car category, with body dimensions of 4683mm in length, 1780mm in width, and 1465mm in height, a wheelbase of 2700mm, a fuel tank capacity of 50 liters, and a curb weight of 1189kg. In terms of safety, this vehicle adopts an ultra-high rigidity body, front and rear high-strength anti-collision steel beams, and a multi-channel Zone Body regional body structure design. It is also equipped with comprehensive passive safety configurations such as front dual airbags, side airbags, and curtain airbags, ensuring high passive safety performance.

The Bluebird series has used quite a few engines. The domestic older Bluebird mainly used Nissan's SR20DE, the 2.0L four-cylinder one, which is sturdy and durable. Later, after Dongfeng Nissan took over, they mostly used the HR16DE, the 1.6L naturally aspirated engine with CVTC, which is also used in the Sylphy. The imported versions are more varied; the seventh generation used the QG18DE 1.8L engine. To find the exact model, you really need to check the year of the car. For example, around 2002, it was the SR20, and from the 2005 model, it changed to the HR16. Once, when helping a friend look for a used Bluebird, I found that the label in the engine compartment is the most accurate, and the first 8 digits of the VIN can also match the factory data.

It depends on which generation Bluebird you're referring to. I've worked on several models. The early imported U13 version used the CA18 inline-four, while the domestically produced models mainly featured the SR20DE with multi-point fuel injection—that cast iron block was incredibly durable. Later, during the Dongfeng Nissan era, they all switched to the smaller HR16DE. The most iconic were the 1990s models, especially the rare red-top engine versions, which had impressive performance. A little-known fact I discovered while researching this car: after Dongfeng discontinued the old Bluebird in 2005, the new Bluebird was actually a rebadged Sylphy platform, hence the engine changes too.

As a frequent visitor to auto parts markets, I'm quite familiar with the Bluebird's engines. There are basically three common domestic versions on the road: older models mostly use the SR20 series, which had extremely high installation rates around 2001; the mid-cycle facelift used the QG18, but these are rare in circulation; currently, most units in the second-hand market are equipped with the HR16 engine - the one with timing chain. Before buying parts, always verify the stamped serial number - the engine nameplate is affixed beneath the air filter box. Important note: the piston ring specifications differ between 2002 and 2003 SR20 models, so pay attention to this distinction during repairs.


