The Geely Tugella 2.0 (238 Hp) 4WD Aisin is a compact SUV produced by the Chinese automaker Geely, entering production in November 2020. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Tugella lineup, it represents Geely’s attempt to compete in the increasingly popular crossover segment with a focus on performance and all-weather capability. The Tugella, marketed as a coupe SUV, blends styling cues from both traditional SUVs and sportier crossover designs. This particular variant, equipped with the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and Aisin-sourced 8-speed automatic transmission, aims to deliver a balance of power, efficiency, and refinement for the North American and European markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Geely |
| Model | Tugella |
| Generation | Tugella |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 (238 Hp) 4WD Aisin |
| Start of production | November, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe, SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.4 l/100 km (20.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 238 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1800-4500 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | JLH-4G20TDB |
| Engine displacement | 1969 cm3 (120.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1815 kg (4001.39 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 446 l (15.75 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 53 l (14 US gal | 11.66 UK gal) |
| Length | 4605 mm (181.3 in.) |
| Width | 1878 mm (73.94 in.) |
| Height | 1643 mm (64.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Rear track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 204 mm (8.03 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.325 |
| Gears/Transmission | 8 gears, automatic transmission Aisin |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Tugella 2.0 4WD Aisin is the JLH-4G20TDB, a 1.969-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is coupled with a single scroll turbocharger and intercooler to boost power output to 238 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque between 1800 and 4500 rpm. The engine features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for improved performance. The Aisin 8-speed automatic transmission is a crucial component, known for its smooth shifting and efficiency. It’s designed to handle the engine’s torque output effectively and contribute to the vehicle’s overall drivability. The transmission features multiple driving modes, including Eco, Normal, and Sport, allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle’s response to their preferences.
Driving Characteristics
The Tugella 2.0 4WD Aisin delivers a responsive driving experience. The 8-speed automatic transmission provides quick and seamless gear changes, contributing to brisk acceleration. The 0-60 mph time of approximately 6.6 seconds is competitive within its class. Compared to lower-powered versions of the Tugella, this variant offers significantly more punch, making overtaking maneuvers easier and more confident. While not as sporty as some dedicated performance SUVs, the Tugella 2.0 strikes a good balance between comfort and performance. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The gear ratios are tuned for a blend of acceleration and fuel efficiency, with taller gears for highway cruising and shorter gears for quicker response in city driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Tugella 2.0 4WD Aisin typically comes standard with a comprehensive suite of features. These include a large touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), a digital instrument cluster, leather upholstery, automatic climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. Safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags are also standard. Optional extras often include a premium sound system, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and a 360-degree camera system. Interior trim levels vary, with higher trims offering more luxurious materials and finishes.
Chassis & Braking
The Tugella 2.0 utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension setup at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This configuration provides a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The chassis is reinforced to handle the increased power output of the 2.0-liter engine. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power. The inclusion of ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic brake-force distribution enhances safety and control during emergency braking situations. The steering system is an electric power steering (EPS) setup, offering light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Geely Tugella 2.0 4WD Aisin has received mixed reviews. Critics generally praise its stylish design, spacious interior, and comprehensive feature list. However, some have noted that the ride quality can be firm on rough roads and that the engine, while powerful, can be somewhat noisy under hard acceleration. Compared to other trims in the Tugella lineup, the 2.0-liter variant offers a significant performance upgrade over the base engine options. Fuel economy is respectable, averaging around 29 US mpg in combined driving, but it’s not class-leading. Reliability reports are still emerging, as the Tugella is a relatively new model, but early indications suggest that it is generally reliable.
Legacy
The Geely Tugella 2.0 4WD Aisin represents a significant step forward for Geely in terms of design, technology, and performance. While its long-term reliability remains to be fully established, the combination of a turbocharged engine, a smooth-shifting Aisin transmission, and all-wheel drive makes it a compelling option in the compact SUV segment. In the used car market, the Tugella 2.0 is expected to hold its value reasonably well, particularly among buyers seeking a stylish and well-equipped SUV with a bit of extra performance. Its success will depend on Geely’s ability to continue improving its build quality and establishing a strong reputation for reliability.
