The SWM G01FF 1.5T (156 Hp) DCT is a compact SUV produced by the Italian-owned, Chinese manufacturer SWM Motors, beginning in May 2019. Positioned as a mainstream offering within the G01FF generation, it aimed to provide a balance of practicality, fuel efficiency, and modern features in a competitive segment. The G01FF represents SWM’s entry into the popular compact SUV market, leveraging a turbocharged engine and dual-clutch transmission (DCT) to appeal to buyers seeking a more engaging driving experience than typically found in similarly priced vehicles. It is primarily marketed towards the Chinese domestic market, with limited export sales.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | SWM |
| Model | G01FF |
| Generation | G01FF |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5T (156 Hp) DCT |
| Start of production | May, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (WLTC) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg, 37.7 UK mpg, 13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | China VI |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.9 kg/Hp, 100.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.3 kg/Nm, 136.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 156 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 104.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 212 Nm @ 4000 rpm (156.36 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | SWD15T |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System |
| Kerb Weight | 1550 kg (3417.17 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 789 l (27.86 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1725 l (60.92 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Length | 4670 mm (183.86 in.) |
| Width | 1855 mm (73.03 in.) |
| Height | 1725-1740 mm (67.91 – 68.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2750 mm (108.27 in.) |
| Front track | 1575 mm (62.01 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1025 mm (40.35 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 895 mm (35.24 in.) |
| 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 | 7 gears, automatic transmission DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/65 R17; 225/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The SWM G01FF 1.5T utilizes the SWD15T engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is turbocharged and features multi-port fuel injection, along with a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The turbocharger and intercooler are designed to improve volumetric efficiency and boost power output. The engine produces 156 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 212 Nm (156.36 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), which provides quicker and smoother gear changes compared to a traditional automatic transmission. The DCT contributes to improved fuel efficiency and a more responsive driving experience. A start-stop system is included as standard to further enhance fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5T DCT powertrain delivers adequate performance for everyday driving. While not exceptionally quick, the turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power during acceleration. The DCT transmission shifts quickly and efficiently, contributing to a relatively smooth driving experience. Compared to potential lower-powered engine options (if available), the 1.5T offers a more confident experience when merging onto highways or overtaking other vehicles. However, it doesn’t match the performance of larger displacement engines. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides predictable handling, but it lacks the all-weather capability of an all-wheel-drive system. The DCT’s gear ratios are tuned for a balance between fuel efficiency and responsiveness, with lower gears providing brisk acceleration and higher gears optimized for highway cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The G01FF 1.5T typically comes equipped with a range of standard features, including air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display. Higher trim levels add features such as a rearview camera, parking sensors, automatic climate control, and upgraded upholstery. Interior materials are generally of acceptable quality for the price point, with a focus on durability and practicality. Optional extras could include a panoramic sunroof, leather seats, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking, depending on the specific market and trim level.
Chassis & Braking
The SWM G01FF utilizes a front-wheel-drive chassis with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a torsion beam suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. The front brakes are ventilated discs, providing good stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The steering system is a rack and pinion type with electric power steering, offering light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The SWM G01FF 1.5T has received mixed reviews. Critics generally praise its value for money and its relatively modern features. However, some have noted that the interior materials and overall refinement are not on par with some of its more established competitors. Fuel economy is competitive within its class, achieving approximately 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg). Compared to other trims in the G01FF lineup, the 1.5T offers a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice for buyers who prioritize both. It represents a step up in performance from any potential base engine options, while remaining more affordable than higher-powered variants.
Legacy
The SWM G01FF 1.5T DCT, while relatively new to the market, has established itself as a viable option in the competitive compact SUV segment. The long-term reliability of the SWD15T engine and DCT transmission remains to be fully assessed, but early reports suggest that they are generally reliable. On the used car market, the G01FF 1.5T is likely to appeal to buyers seeking an affordable and well-equipped SUV with a modern powertrain. Its combination of practicality, fuel efficiency, and features makes it a compelling choice for those looking for a value-oriented vehicle.
