What's the Difference Between 1.2L and 1.5L Engine Displacement?
2 Answers
1.2L and 1.5L engine displacement differences: 1. Different power performance: The 1.2L engine has a maximum power of 63kW and maximum torque of 108Nm; the 1.5L engine has a maximum power of 82kW and maximum torque of 146Nm. 2. Different technologies: The 1.2L engine is equipped with PTEC engine technology; the 1.5L engine features DVVT (Dual Variable Valve Timing) technology. Selection method between 1.2L and 1.5L: If consumers mainly drive in urban areas or for short distances at low speeds, the 1.2L engine is recommended; for highway or long-distance driving, the 1.5L engine is suggested because smaller displacement vehicles require higher throttle input when reaching certain speeds on highways.
Having driven for over a decade, the biggest differences between 1.2L and 1.5L engines lie in power and fuel consumption. The 1.5L engine has a larger cylinder volume, allowing it to intake more air-fuel mixture, resulting in faster acceleration and easier highway overtaking—especially noticeable when climbing hills or carrying heavy loads. The 1.2L engine is gentler, offering smoother starts in city traffic jams and typically consuming 10% to 15% less fuel, making it both economical and eco-friendly. However, on windy days or when using air conditioning, the 1.2L might feel underpowered, requiring harder throttle input. My advice is to choose based on driving habits: opt for the 1.5L if you frequently take long trips, or the 1.2L for cost-effective commuting. Also, modern turbocharging technology can boost small-displacement engines’ performance, but don’t overlook maintenance costs—larger engines are pricier to repair, while smaller ones have cheaper part replacements.