The Great Wall SUV G5 2.2i (105 hp) was a five-door sport utility vehicle produced by the Chinese manufacturer Great Wall Motors from 2001 to 2010. Representing an early foray into the SUV market for Great Wall, the G5 aimed to provide a relatively affordable and capable vehicle for both domestic Chinese consumers and, increasingly, export markets. This particular variant, equipped with the 2.2-liter inline-four engine producing 105 horsepower, served as a base model within the G5 lineup, offering a balance between cost and functionality. It was positioned below higher-trim levels that featured more powerful engines and additional features.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Great Wall |
| Model | SUV |
| Generation | SUV G5 |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 i (105 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2001 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 140 km/h (86.99 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16.8 kg/Hp, 59.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.3 kg/Nm, 108 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 105 Hp |
| Power per litre | 46.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 2400 rpm (140.14 lb.-ft. @ 2400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 2237 cm3 (136.51 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Kerb Weight | 1760 kg (3880.14 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2430 kg (5357.23 lbs.) |
| Max load | 670 kg (1477.1 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4860 mm (191.34 in.) |
| Width | 1725 mm (67.91 in.) |
| Height | 1820 mm (71.65 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2615 mm (102.95 in.) |
| Front track | 1480 mm (58.27 in.) |
| Rear track | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Torsion |
| Rear suspension | dependent spring suspension |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the G5 2.2i was the 4G13 engine, a 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilized a multi-point fuel injection system, a relatively common setup for the time, providing adequate fuel delivery for its modest power output. The engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its simplicity and lower manufacturing cost. While not a particularly advanced engine design, it was known for its relative durability and ease of maintenance. The 105 horsepower and 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque were delivered at 2400 rpm. The engine was mounted longitudinally in the chassis, a configuration often found in rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive vehicles. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing a direct connection between the engine and the drivetrain.
Driving Characteristics
The G5 2.2i, with its 105 hp engine and manual transmission, offered modest performance. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, but overtaking maneuvers required careful planning. The five-speed manual transmission provided a reasonable spread of gears, allowing the driver to keep the engine in its optimal power band. The all-wheel-drive system enhanced traction, particularly on loose surfaces, making it a capable vehicle for navigating varied terrain. Compared to higher-trim G5 models equipped with larger engines, the 2.2i felt noticeably less powerful. However, the lower engine output also contributed to slightly better fuel economy. The suspension, while functional, was tuned more for comfort than sporty handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The G5 2.2i typically came with a basic level of equipment. Standard features generally included power steering, air conditioning, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional, if somewhat utilitarian, design. Optional extras could include power windows, central locking, and an upgraded audio system. The trim level was generally considered the entry-level offering for the G5 range, appealing to buyers prioritizing affordability and practicality over luxury features.
Chassis & Braking
The G5 utilized a body-on-frame construction, a traditional SUV design that prioritized robustness and off-road capability. The front suspension consisted of torsion bars, while the rear suspension employed a dependent spring setup. This configuration provided a comfortable ride, but it wasn’t particularly refined in terms of handling. The braking system featured disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. This configuration was common for vehicles in this price range during the early 2000s. The all-wheel-drive system was part-time, meaning it could be engaged or disengaged as needed.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Great Wall G5 2.2i received mixed reviews. Critics generally praised its affordability and all-wheel-drive capability, but noted its lack of refinement and relatively low power output. Compared to other SUVs available in the Chinese market at the time, the G5 offered a competitive price point. However, it lagged behind more established brands in terms of build quality and overall sophistication. Fuel economy was considered average for its class. Reliability reports were generally positive, with the 2.2-liter engine proving to be relatively durable.
Legacy
The Great Wall G5 2.2i played a significant role in establishing Great Wall Motors as a player in the Chinese automotive market. While not a groundbreaking vehicle, it provided a relatively affordable and capable SUV option for a growing segment of consumers. Today, the G5 2.2i can be found on the used car market, often at very low prices. The 2.2-liter engine, while not known for its performance, has proven to be reasonably reliable, making it a viable option for budget-conscious buyers seeking a basic, utilitarian SUV. Parts availability can be a challenge outside of China, but the relatively simple mechanical design makes it a potentially rewarding vehicle for mechanically inclined owners.
