Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Lova |
| Generation | Lova RV |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5i (113 Hp) Automatic |
| 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 | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 172 km/h (106.88 mph) |
| Emission standard | China V |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10 kg/Hp, 100 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8 kg/Nm, 124.8 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 | 1130 kg (2491.22 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 | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 185/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
The Chevrolet Lova RV 1.5i Automatic, introduced in 2016, marked General Motors’ foray into the compact MPV segment, specifically tailored for the Chinese automotive market. Designed as a practical and affordable family vehicle, the Lova RV aimed to meet the increasing demand for spacious and versatile transportation. This particular variant, featuring a 1.5-liter engine coupled with a four-speed automatic transmission, occupied a mid-range position within the Lova RV lineup, offering a balance between fuel efficiency and adequate performance for daily use. It was built upon a modified version of the Buick Sail platform, demonstrating GM’s strategy of utilizing existing architectures to control costs.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Chevrolet Lova RV 1.5i Automatic is powered by the GM L2B engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine incorporates a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with variable valve timing (D-VVT) on both the intake and exhaust camshafts, contributing to improved fuel economy and a wider, more usable torque band. The engine utilizes multi-point fuel injection, a common technology for vehicles in this class, delivering fuel directly to the intake ports. The engine produces 113 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 141 Nm (104 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm – figures typical for a naturally aspirated engine of this displacement. The engine is paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. While not the most advanced transmission available, it provided a level of convenience and ease of use that appealed to a wide range of drivers, especially in heavily congested urban areas. The transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy and smooth operation, rather than prioritizing outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The driving experience in the Lova RV 1.5i Automatic is best described as comfortable and predictable. The four-speed automatic transmission, while lacking the responsiveness of more modern units, delivers smooth shifts and sufficient acceleration for typical city and highway driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes around 12.5 seconds, which is fairly standard for a vehicle in this segment with this engine and transmission combination. Compared to a manual transmission version of the same engine, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness and fuel economy. However, the convenience of the automatic transmission outweighs these drawbacks for many drivers. The power delivery is linear, with peak torque available at 4000 rpm, making it reasonably easy to maintain speed on inclines. The suspension is tuned for comfort, effectively absorbing bumps and road imperfections.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Lova RV 1.5i Automatic typically came equipped with a range of standard features designed to appeal to family buyers. These included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system with radio and MP3 playback. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as alloy wheels, a more sophisticated audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and a rear parking sensor system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, prioritizing durability and ease of cleaning. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, emphasizing usability over aesthetic design. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded interior trim, and a navigation system.
Chassis & Braking
The Lova RV utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. This suspension setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling stability. The front brakes are disc brakes, offering superior stopping power compared to drum brakes, while the rear brakes are drum brakes, a cost-saving measure common in this vehicle class. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The tires are typically 185/60 R15, providing adequate grip for everyday driving conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chevrolet Lova RV 1.5i Automatic was generally well-received in the Chinese market as a practical and affordable MPV. Critics praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reasonable fuel economy. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked significant power and that the four-speed automatic transmission felt somewhat dated compared to newer offerings from competitors. Compared to other trims in the Lova RV lineup, the 1.5i Automatic offered a good compromise between performance and fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice for families who prioritized convenience and practicality. Its fuel economy of 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg) was competitive within its segment.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Lova RV, and specifically the 1.5i Automatic variant, has earned a reputation for reasonable reliability and affordability in the used car market. The L2B engine is known to be relatively durable, although regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring long-term reliability. The four-speed automatic transmission, while not as sophisticated as more modern units, is generally reliable when properly maintained. Today, the Lova RV represents a budget-friendly option for buyers seeking a spacious and practical MPV, particularly in regions where affordability is a key consideration. Its simplicity and relatively low running costs contribute to its continued appeal in the used car market.
