The Forthing T5L 1.5T Automatic, produced between 2019 and 2021, represents a significant offering from Dongfeng Forthing Motor Co., Ltd. within the Chinese automotive market. Positioned as a mid-range variant of the T5L series, a large Crossover Utility Vehicle (CUV), this model aimed to provide a balance of space, comfort, and reasonable performance for families. The T5L, built on a dedicated platform, was designed to cater to the growing demand for seven-passenger vehicles in China, offering a spacious interior and a comprehensive feature set. This specific 1.5T Automatic configuration was intended to appeal to buyers seeking a more efficient and accessible entry point into the T5L lineup compared to potentially higher-trim, larger-displacement engine options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Forthing |
| Model | T5L |
| Generation | T5L |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5T (156 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | CUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Emission standard | China VI B |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10 kg/Hp, 100.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.8 kg/Nm, 147.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 156 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 106.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 1750-4600 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 1750-4600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | MIVEC/4J15T |
| Engine displacement | 1468 cm3 (89.58 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75.5 mm (2.97 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System |
| Kerb Weight | 1555 kg (3428.19 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 240 l (8.48 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2370 l (83.7 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4780 mm (188.19 in.) |
| Width | 1872 mm (73.7 in.) |
| Height | 1760 mm (69.29 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2753 mm (108.39 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 200 mm (7.87 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 | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| 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 | 225/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Forthing T5L 1.5T Automatic is powered by the 4J15T engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes a Mitsubishi-developed MIVEC (Multi-point Injection Variable valve timing Electronic Control) system, which optimizes valve timing for improved efficiency and performance across the engine’s operating range. The engine is turbocharged and intercooled, allowing it to produce 156 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 230 Nm (169.64 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1750 and 4600 rpm. Fuel is delivered via a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The transmission is a six-speed automatic, chosen for its ease of use and suitability for the target market. While not offering the sportiness of a manual transmission, the automatic provides smooth shifts and contributes to a more relaxed driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5T engine, paired with the six-speed automatic transmission, delivers adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration is reasonable, though not particularly brisk. The turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power during overtaking maneuvers, but the engine can feel somewhat strained when pushed hard. The automatic transmission is tuned for comfort and efficiency, with gear changes being smooth and largely unnoticeable. Compared to potential higher-output engine options within the T5L range, this 1.5T variant prioritizes fuel economy and a more relaxed driving experience over outright performance. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides predictable handling, but lacks the all-weather capability of an all-wheel-drive system.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Forthing T5L 1.5T Automatic typically came equipped with a range of standard features designed to appeal to family buyers. These included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system, and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels offered upgrades such as leather seats, a larger touchscreen infotainment system, a sunroof, and various driver-assistance features. Safety equipment generally included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and airbags. The interior design was functional and spacious, with a focus on practicality rather than luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The T5L utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension setup at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. A transverse stabilizer bar is included at the front to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The ABS system helps to maintain steering control during emergency braking situations. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort, prioritizing a smooth ride over sporty handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Forthing T5L 1.5T Automatic was generally well-received in the Chinese market as a practical and affordable seven-passenger CUV. Critics noted its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reasonable fuel economy. However, some reviewers pointed out that the 1.5T engine could feel underpowered when fully loaded with passengers and luggage. Compared to other similarly priced CUVs in China, the T5L offered a competitive level of features and space. Its fuel economy figures were comparable to those of its rivals, and its reliability was generally considered to be good.
Legacy
The Forthing T5L 1.5T Automatic represents a significant step for Dongfeng Forthing in establishing itself as a major player in the Chinese automotive market. While not a performance standout, the 1.5T engine and automatic transmission combination proved to be a reliable and efficient powertrain. On the used car market, these models are generally considered to be a good value for money, offering a spacious and practical vehicle at an affordable price. Long-term reliability reports suggest that the 4J15T engine is relatively durable, although regular maintenance is essential to ensure its longevity. The T5L, in general, helped to solidify Forthing’s reputation for building family-friendly vehicles.
