The Geely Atlas 1.8T AWD Automatic, produced between March 2016 and September 2020, represents a significant step forward for the Geely brand, showcasing its ambition to compete in the increasingly popular compact SUV segment. This particular variant, equipped with a 1.8-liter turbocharged engine and a six-speed automatic transmission coupled with all-wheel drive, was positioned as a mid-to-upper trim level within the Atlas lineup, offering a balance of performance, features, and capability. The Atlas was Geely’s first self-developed SUV, and it played a crucial role in establishing the brand’s design language and technological prowess in the Chinese market, with limited export sales to select regions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Geely |
| Model | Atlas |
| Generation | Atlas |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8T (184 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | March, 2016 |
| End of production | September, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Power | 184 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 102.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 285 Nm @ 1500-4000 rpm / 210.21 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | JLE4G18TD |
| Engine displacement | 1799 cm3 / 109.78 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 |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l / 4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt |
| Coolant | 7 l / 7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 320-397 l / 11.3 – 14.02 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l / 15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal |
| Length | 4519 mm / 177.91 in. |
| Width | 1831 mm / 72.09 in. |
| Height | 1694 mm / 66.69 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2670 mm / 105.12 in. |
| Front track | 1560 mm / 61.42 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1550 mm / 61.02 in. |
| Front overhang | 919 mm / 36.18 in. |
| Rear overhang | 930 mm / 36.61 in. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels permanently, and the rear wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| 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 heart of the Geely Atlas 1.8T AWD is the JLE4G18TD engine, a 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler. This engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The turbocharging system provides a significant boost in power and torque compared to naturally aspirated engines of similar displacement. The engine’s design prioritizes a broad torque curve, delivering 285 Nm (210.21 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 4000 rpm, making it responsive in everyday driving situations. The six-speed automatic transmission is a conventional torque converter type, chosen for its smoothness and reliability. While not the most technologically advanced transmission available at the time, it was well-suited to the engine’s characteristics and the intended market.
Driving Characteristics
The 184 hp and all-wheel-drive configuration of the Atlas 1.8T AWD provides a reasonably spirited driving experience. Acceleration is adequate for merging onto highways and overtaking, though it doesn’t offer the outright performance of some competitors with larger displacement engines. The automatic transmission generally shifts smoothly, but can sometimes feel hesitant during quick acceleration. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in inclement weather and on loose surfaces, making it a more capable vehicle than front-wheel-drive variants. Compared to the base 1.5-liter engine option, the 1.8T offers a noticeable improvement in performance, while the automatic transmission provides convenience at the expense of some fuel efficiency compared to the available manual transmission.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.8T AWD trim of the Geely Atlas typically included a generous array of standard features. Interior appointments generally included cloth or leatherette upholstery, depending on optional packages. Standard equipment often included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and basic safety features like ABS and airbags. Higher-end trims offered features such as a panoramic sunroof, leather seats, automatic climate control, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control. The Atlas aimed to provide a comfortable and well-equipped interior, competing with other compact SUVs in terms of features.
Chassis & Braking
The Geely Atlas utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride quality and decent handling characteristics. The front suspension incorporates a stabilizer bar to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight class. The ABS system helps to prevent wheel lockup during hard braking, enhancing safety. The all-wheel-drive system contributes to improved stability and handling, particularly in slippery conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Geely Atlas 1.8T AWD was generally well-received in the Chinese market, praised for its stylish design, spacious interior, and competitive features. Critics noted the engine’s strong torque output and the all-wheel-drive system’s added capability. However, some reviewers pointed out the automatic transmission’s occasional hesitation and the somewhat firm ride quality. Compared to other compact SUVs in the Chinese market, such as the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, the Atlas offered a compelling value proposition, with a similar level of features at a lower price point. Fuel economy was generally comparable to other turbocharged SUVs in its class.
Legacy
The Geely Atlas 1.8T AWD played a significant role in establishing Geely as a major player in the Chinese automotive market. The JLE4G18TD engine proved to be a reliable and durable powertrain, and the Atlas’s overall design and features set a new standard for Geely vehicles. In the used car market, the Atlas 1.8T AWD remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a spacious, well-equipped, and capable compact SUV. While long-term reliability data is still emerging, early reports suggest that the powertrain is generally robust, with routine maintenance being the key to ensuring its longevity. The Atlas paved the way for Geely’s continued expansion and development of more advanced and technologically sophisticated vehicles.
