Which engine is used in the Wuling Hongguang?
4 Answers
Wuling Hongguang is equipped with two types of engines manufactured by General Motors: the PTEC 1.2L and 1.5L DVVT engines. An engine is a machine that can convert other forms of energy into mechanical energy. The term engine can refer to both the power-generating device and the entire machine including the power unit. Types of engines include internal combustion engines, external combustion engines, gas turbines, and electric motors. The Wuling Hongguang features a MacPherson strut independent front suspension and a leaf spring non-independent rear suspension. The engine delivers a maximum horsepower of 76ps, a maximum power output of 56kw, and a maximum torque of 110nm, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission.
I'm quite familiar with the Wuling Hongguang - I've been driving a second-generation model purchased in 2013 myself. Its most iconic engines are the 1.2L and 1.5L from the P-TEC series. Mine uses the 1.2L LMU engine with cast iron cylinder block - though its 82 horsepower isn't powerful, it's sufficient for cargo hauling and hill climbing. Later, my friend's 2018 model switched to the L2B engine with all-aluminum construction, making it lighter and more fuel-efficient. The current new models use China VI-compliant engines with DVVT technology, boosting power to 99hp while reducing fuel consumption to around 7L. This vehicle's engine compartment is exceptionally well-designed - I can even change the spark plugs myself. However, regular throttle body cleaning is necessary as the Hongguang's intake system tends to accumulate carbon deposits, especially when frequently driven on dirt roads.
Over the years, I've worked on at least hundreds of Wuling Honggu vehicles. Its engine evolution is quite noticeable: Before 2010, most used Mitsubishi-based 1.0L engines, later shifting to Liuzhou Wuling's self-developed 1.2L LMU with cast iron cylinder blocks and plastic intake manifolds. Post-2015, the mainstream became the L2B 1.5L engine, shared with Baojun 730, featuring variable valve timing. The latest models now use the N15 1.5L engine meeting China VI emissions, adopting electronic thermostats and low-tension piston rings. Common issues include water pump leaks in older models and oxygen sensor faults in newer ones. Maintenance tip: Replace the timing chain every 20,000 km - chain elongation can cause valve interference.
The success of Wuling Hongguang lies in its engine selection strategy. The main engine is the 1.5L L2B, an all-aluminum powerplant derived from the GM technology platform but specifically tuned for low-end torque to suit Chinese road conditions. Compared to other microvans, it delivers peak torque of 146Nm at just 4000rpm, making light work of hauling one-ton loads up hills. The fuel efficiency is cleverly managed - the 5MT gearbox's ratio design keeps cruising RPM at 2500. Even more impressive are maintenance costs: a full synthetic oil change plus three filters costs just 300 yuan, while the timing chain only requires inspection at 200,000km. Although top speed is rated at 140km/h, we recommend keeping it under 110km/h due to the rear-wheel-drive layout's limited high-speed stability.
