Why is the new Emgrand often said to have high fuel consumption?
4 Answers
The fuel consumption performance of the new Emgrand with a 1.5L displacement can reach the standard of a 2.0L engine, with a combined fuel consumption of around 8.5L/100km. This figure generally applies to automatic transmission models, while manual transmission models are slightly lower, typically around 7.8L/100km. Although not as fuel-efficient as Japanese cars in the same class, it is not considered a fuel-guzzling model. The fuel consumption details of the Geely Emgrand are as follows: 1. MIIT fuel consumption: The Emgrand 1.5L 5-speed manual transmission model (China V) has a MIIT combined fuel consumption of 5.8L/100km, the Emgrand 1.5L 5-speed manual transmission model (China VI) has a MIIT combined fuel consumption of 5.8L/100km, the Emgrand 1.5L CVT model (China V) has a MIIT combined fuel consumption of 6.1L/100km, and the Emgrand 1.5L CVT model (China VI) has a MIIT combined fuel consumption of 6.1L/100km. 2. Actual fuel consumption: The Emgrand 1.5L 5-speed manual transmission model (China V) has a fuel consumption range of 6.82-8.75L/100km with an average of 7.78L/100km, the Emgrand 1.5L 5-speed manual transmission model (China VI) has a fuel consumption range of 6.68-8.62L/100km with an average of 7.65L/100km, the Emgrand 1.5L CVT model (China V) has a fuel consumption range of 7.58-9.92L/100km with an average of 8.76L/100km, and the Emgrand 1.5L CVT model (China VI) has a fuel consumption range of 7.42-9.71L/100km with an average of 8.58L/100km.
When I first got my new Emgrand, I was also quite puzzled by the fuel consumption. Actually, after driving it for a while, I realized that the 1.5L engine is indeed a bit underpowered for a car weighing over 1.3 tons. I mostly commute in the city, and when accelerating from traffic lights, the tachometer shoots up quickly, with the display often showing around 8.5 liters per 100 km. However, it's quite surprising on the highway—cruise control can bring it down to just over 6 liters. Later, I learned from car owner groups that insufficient tire pressure or long-term use of air conditioning has a significant impact. Last week, I adjusted the tire pressure from 2.1 to 2.4, and the fuel consumption immediately dropped by half a liter. I recommend new owners develop the habit of anticipating road conditions in advance and avoid sudden braking, and the fuel consumption will naturally be under control.
The fuel consumption controversy surrounding the new Emgrand seems quite normal to me. When accompanying a friend for a test drive last year, I noticed its CVT transmission logic tends to be conservative, requiring higher RPMs at low speeds to deliver sufficient power. This becomes particularly noticeable during daily driving in congested areas, where frequent start-stop situations can easily push instantaneous fuel consumption beyond 10L/100km. However, from another perspective, few vehicles in this price range feature full independent suspension, and the Emgrand's chassis tuning is indeed more solid. My neighbor, whose car has covered 30,000 kilometers, mentioned that regular throttle body cleaning and switching to lower-viscosity engine oil significantly help with fuel efficiency. My advice would be not to overly concern yourself with fuel consumption figures during the break-in period, as improvements typically appear after the first maintenance service.
Real feelings as an old Emgrand owner upgrading to the new model: Fuel consumption is indeed higher than peers. While the new model added many electronic features, the increased weight makes the 1.5L naturally aspirated engine struggle. The most noticeable issue is when climbing hills with AC on in summer - obvious power shortage and higher fuel consumption. My tests show about 1L/100km more fuel usage than Lavida in urban commuting. However, handling improved significantly with much better cornering stability. Rather than focusing solely on fuel economy, consider total ownership costs - maintenance for this car is much cheaper.
