The Chevrolet Lova RV 1.5i, produced from 2016 onwards, represents a compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) aimed primarily at the Chinese automotive market. Positioned as a practical and affordable family vehicle, the Lova RV offered increased interior space and versatility compared to traditional sedan offerings. It falls within the first generation of the Lova RV, built on a dedicated platform for maximizing interior volume within a relatively small footprint. This variant, equipped with the 1.5-liter gasoline engine producing 113 horsepower, served as a core offering in the Lova RV lineup, balancing performance with fuel efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Lova |
| Generation | Lova RV |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5i (113 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 177 km/h (109.98 mph) |
| Emission standard | China V |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.9 kg/Hp, 101.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.9 kg/Nm, 126.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 113 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 141 Nm @ 4000 rpm (104 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | L2B |
| Engine displacement | 1485 cm3 (90.62 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, D-VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1115 kg (2458.15 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 308 l (10.88 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 972 l (34.33 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 42 l (11.1 US gal | 9.24 UK gal) |
| Length | 4205 mm (165.55 in) |
| Width | 1722 mm (67.8 in) |
| Height | 1525 mm (60.04 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2550 mm (100.39 in) |
| Front track | 1477 mm (58.15 in) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1468 mm (57.8 in) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 125 mm (4.92 in) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.2 m (33.46 ft) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 175/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Chevrolet Lova RV 1.5i is powered by the L2B engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes a naturally aspirated configuration, meaning it doesn’t employ forced induction like a turbocharger or supercharger. It features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with variable valve timing (D-VVT) on both intake and exhaust sides. This technology helps optimize engine performance and fuel efficiency across a wider range of engine speeds. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-point fuel injection system. The engine produces 113 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 141 Nm (104 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine is transversely mounted, driving the front wheels. The transmission is a 5-speed manual gearbox, chosen for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness in the target market.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5-liter engine and 5-speed manual transmission combination in the Lova RV provides adequate, though not particularly sporty, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 11.5 seconds. The engine delivers usable torque at lower RPMs, making it suitable for everyday driving conditions. However, when fully loaded or tackling inclines, the engine can feel strained. Compared to potential higher-output variants (which were not widely available), the 1.5i prioritizes fuel economy and affordability over outright performance. The 5-speed gearbox offers a reasonable spread of ratios, but the shift quality is generally considered average. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides predictable handling, but lacks the all-weather capability of an all-wheel-drive system.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Chevrolet Lova RV 1.5i typically came equipped with a basic level of standard features. These generally included air conditioning, power steering, power windows, and a basic audio system with AM/FM radio and auxiliary input. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional, if somewhat basic, dashboard layout. Optional extras could include alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and rear parking sensors. The trim level for this engine/transmission combination generally represented the entry-level or mid-range offering within the Lova RV lineup, providing a balance of features and affordability.
Chassis & Braking
The Lova RV utilizes a McPherson strut independent suspension system at the front, providing a comfortable ride quality. The rear suspension employs a torsion beam setup, which is a cost-effective solution for compact vehicles. The front brakes are disc brakes, offering better stopping power than drum brakes. However, the rear brakes are drum brakes, a common cost-saving measure in this segment. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The relatively lightweight construction of the vehicle (1115 kg / 2458.15 lbs) helps to offset the limitations of the braking system.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chevrolet Lova RV 1.5i was generally well-received in the Chinese market as a practical and affordable MPV. Critics praised its spacious interior and versatile seating configuration. However, some reviewers noted the engine’s lack of refinement and the somewhat basic interior materials. Compared to other MPVs in its class, the Lova RV offered a competitive price point and a good level of standard equipment. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined fuel consumption rated at 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg). Reliability was generally considered average, with no major reported issues specific to the 1.5-liter engine and 5-speed manual transmission combination.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Lova RV, and specifically the 1.5i variant, has established itself as a relatively reliable and affordable used car option in the Chinese market. The L2B engine is known for its durability, and the 5-speed manual transmission is relatively simple to maintain. While not a performance standout, the Lova RV 1.5i continues to appeal to budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical and spacious family vehicle. Parts availability remains good within China, ensuring that maintenance and repairs can be carried out without significant difficulty. The Lova RV represents a significant step for Chevrolet in catering to the specific needs of the Chinese automotive consumer.
