
Hanteng X5 uses a self-produced engine. The entire lineup of this car is equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, paired with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic transmission. The Hanteng X5 is a model under Hanteng Motors, with dimensions of 4501mm in length, 1820mm in width, and 1648mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2600mm. In terms of interior, the car features a warm design with dual-tone upholstery and wood grain trim, equipped with a 9-inch central control screen that includes the Hanteng Cloud Intelligent Network Service System, providing functions such as remote diagnosis, remote control, and navigation. In terms of configuration, the car is equipped with one-button start-stop, EPB electronic parking brake, automatic parking, panoramic sunroof, and more.

I drive the Han Teng X5 1.5T model, which is equipped with the Shenyang Aerospace 4A91T engine. My friend's 1.5L naturally aspirated version comes with the 4G15 engine. Mitsubishi engines have been used in many domestic cars—they're stable but the power is just average. This engine delivers a maximum of 152 horsepower, which is absolutely sufficient for city commuting, though it feels a bit sluggish when overtaking on the highway. If you're buying used, pay attention to the turbo condition—I've heard the early models had issues with the turbo bypass valve sticking. The fuel consumption is decent in my opinion, around 8L/100km in the city, and experienced drivers can get it down to about 7L/100km. For regular maintenance, use 5W-30 full synthetic oil, and avoid small workshops when replacing the three filters—parts for this car are easy to find.

The engine of this car is based on technology and produced by Shenyang Aerospace Mitsubishi. The 1.5T model is the 4A91T, with the turbo kicking in early at 1200 RPM, delivering strong power, and a maximum power output of 112 kW. The oil pan is made of aluminum alloy, which dissipates heat quickly but requires attention to avoid bottoming out. The paired Punch CVT transmission is somewhat of a weak point, with the engine roaring noticeably during rapid acceleration. It is recommended to use 95-octane fuel; the manual states 92 is acceptable, but 95 runs smoother. A common issue is oil seepage in the turbo intake pipe, so check the connection clamps during maintenance. The spark plugs need their gaps checked every 20,000 kilometers, as the factory-fitted nickel alloy ones are not very durable.

During test drives back then, it was noticed that all Hunteng models used Aerospace engines, with the X5's 1.5T being the same unit as the Soueast DX7. The switch from mechanical throttle cable to electronic throttle improved response slightly. Mitsubishi's red-top engine technology is indeed reliable, though the valve cover gasket might start leaking oil around 50,000 km. I installed an oil catch can myself - reducing crankcase exhaust gases entering the turbo helps extend its lifespan. Shifting at 2,200 rpm delivers the smoothest gear changes; doing it earlier causes transmission jerkiness. Genuine Mitsubishi filters cost about 30 yuan more than aftermarket parts but provide better filtration. The air filter box's clip design isn't very user-friendly - always requires excessive force to open.

I've seen quite a few Han Teng X5s in repair shops, all equipped with the same Aerospace Sanling 4A91T engine. This engine has few faults, but the throttle body carbon buildup is particularly rapid—it needs cleaning every 20,000 km; otherwise, the idle will shake. The factory coolant is long-life type and only needs replacement at 80,000 km. The timing chain is -free, but the rattling noise during cold starts indicates oil pressure issues to watch for. A common issue is the aging and electrical leakage of the ignition coil rubber boots, which can cause cylinder misfires in rainy weather. Replacing them with improved silicone boots solves the problem. The oil filler port is inconveniently located behind the turbo, so be careful of burns when adding oil yourself. The generator belt tensioner often makes noise; replacing it with an INA brand part is quieter than the OEM.

My friend bought a used Hanteng X5 last year, the 1.5T low-power version equipped with the 4G15T engine. This version only has a maximum of 143 horsepower, but the low-end torque is sufficient for climbing hills. The cast iron cylinder block is twenty kilograms heavier than the new 4A91T aluminum alloy one, resulting in about half a liter more fuel consumption. The advantage is that it can run on regular 92-octane gasoline. The oil dipstick design is ergonomically terrible—you have to tilt your head to check it. The spark plugs should be replaced with platinum ones, as the original Champion brand ones wear out the electrodes by 30,000 kilometers. The standard oil capacity is 4.2 liters—don’t overfill it, as exceeding the mark can cause oil leakage. Dripping water from the exhaust pipe is a sign of good combustion, so don’t mistake it for a malfunction.


