The Luxgen U6, specifically the facelifted 2017 model year equipped with the 1.8i (202 horsepower) engine and Aisin six-speed automatic transmission, represents a significant offering from the Taiwanese automaker. Introduced in November 2017, this variant aimed to provide a balance of performance, fuel efficiency, and features within the compact SUV segment. The U6, positioned as a mid-range option in Luxgen’s lineup, was designed to appeal to families and individuals seeking a comfortable and well-equipped vehicle. It’s built on the company’s own platform, representing a departure from reliance on established European or Japanese chassis.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Luxgen |
| Model | U6 |
| Generation | U6 (facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8i (202 Hp) AISIN |
| Start of production | November, 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg, 37.2 UK mpg, 13.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.6 kg/Hp, 131.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 196 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 202 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 112.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 2000-4000 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 2000-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1798 cm3 (109.72 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1531-1555 kg (3375.28 – 3428.19 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4630 mm (182.28 in.) |
| Width | 1825 mm (71.85 in.) |
| Height | 1620 mm (63.78 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2720 mm (107.09 in.) |
| Front track | 1555-1568 mm (61.22 – 61.73 in.) |
| Rear track | 1565-1578 mm (61.61 – 62.13 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive, Internal Combustion engine (ICE) |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission AISIN |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 215/55 R17; 225/50 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 2017 Luxgen U6 1.8i is a 1.8-liter, turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, utilizing a twin-scroll turbocharger and intercooler, produces 202 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque between 2000 and 4000 rpm. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its relatively high specific output of 112.3 horsepower per liter. Fuel delivery is managed by direct injection, optimizing combustion efficiency and power delivery. The engine is paired exclusively with a six-speed automatic transmission sourced from Aisin, a well-respected Japanese transmission manufacturer. This transmission is known for its smooth shifting characteristics and reliability.
Driving Characteristics
The combination of the turbocharged 1.8-liter engine and the Aisin six-speed automatic provides a reasonably responsive driving experience. While not a performance-oriented SUV, the U6 1.8i offers adequate acceleration for everyday driving situations. The automatic transmission is tuned for comfort, with smooth gear changes and a focus on fuel efficiency. Compared to potential manual transmission variants (not widely available in most markets), the automatic prioritizes ease of use over outright performance. The torque curve is relatively flat, providing usable power across a broad range of engine speeds. However, the turbocharger does introduce a slight amount of lag at lower rpm, requiring a bit more throttle input for quick acceleration. The front-wheel-drive configuration contributes to predictable handling, but it doesn’t offer the all-weather capability of an all-wheel-drive system.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2017 Luxgen U6 1.8i typically came standard with a respectable array of features. These included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and basic safety equipment like ABS and airbags. Higher trim levels added features such as leather upholstery, a sunroof, rear parking sensors, and a more advanced infotainment system with navigation. Interior materials were generally of acceptable quality, though not necessarily at the level of established European or Japanese competitors. The dashboard layout was functional and user-friendly, with logically placed controls.
Chassis & Braking
The U6 utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension setup at the front, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. The rear suspension employs a torsion beam setup, which is a cost-effective solution that prioritizes space efficiency. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. Steering is power-assisted, providing light and easy maneuverability. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface effectively.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Luxgen U6, including the 1.8i variant, received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and generous equipment levels, it was often criticized for its unremarkable styling and lack of brand recognition. Fuel economy, at 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg), was competitive within the segment, but not class-leading. Compared to other trims in the U6 lineup, the 1.8i offered a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice for buyers who didn’t require the extra power of higher-spec engines. Reliability reports were somewhat limited due to the brand’s relatively small market share.
Legacy
The Luxgen U6, and particularly the 2017 1.8i variant, represents an interesting chapter in the development of the Taiwanese automotive industry. While Luxgen ultimately struggled to gain significant market share outside of Taiwan, the U6 demonstrated the company’s ambition to produce a competitive and well-equipped SUV. The Aisin six-speed automatic transmission has proven to be a reliable component, and the turbocharged 1.8-liter engine, while not without its quirks, offered a decent level of performance. On the used car market, the U6 1.8i can be found at relatively affordable prices, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers seeking a spacious and feature-rich SUV. However, potential buyers should be aware of the limited availability of spare parts and the potential challenges of finding qualified technicians familiar with the Luxgen brand.
