The Geely Jia Ji 1.5TD (258 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid DCT is a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) produced by the Chinese automaker Geely, entering production in 2019. Representing Geely’s foray into more sophisticated plug-in hybrid technology, the Jia Ji aimed to provide a spacious and efficient family vehicle for the rapidly growing Chinese automotive market. This particular variant, combining a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with an electric motor and a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), positioned itself as a premium offering within the Jia Ji lineup, emphasizing fuel economy and performance. The Jia Ji competes with other large MPVs in China, such as the Buick GL8 and Honda Odyssey, but distinguishes itself through its plug-in hybrid powertrain.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Geely |
| Model | Jia Ji |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5TD (258 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid DCT |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 6-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 1.6 l/100 km (147 US mpg, 176.6 UK mpg, 62.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | China VI |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.2 kg/Hp, 139.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 224.8 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 11.3 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range | 56 km (34.8 mi) |
| Electric motor power | 82 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 160 Nm (118.01 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Rear axle, Transverse |
| System power | 258 Hp |
| System torque | 415 Nm (306.09 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 177 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 119.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 255 Nm @ 1500-4000 rpm (188.08 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1477 cm3 (90.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Kerb Weight | 1846 kg (4069.73 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Length | 4706 mm (185.28 in.) |
| Width | 1909 mm (75.16 in.) |
| Height | 1713 mm (67.44 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2805 mm (110.43 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 155 mm (6.1 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric motor drive the rear wheels of the car with the ability to work in full electric or mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Jia Ji 1.5TD Plug-in Hybrid utilizes a 1.5-liter inline-three cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine, designated as part of Geely’s JL series. This engine employs direct fuel injection and is paired with an electric motor. The engine produces 177 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 255 Nm (188 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 4000 rpm. The electric motor, positioned on the rear axle, contributes an additional 82 horsepower and 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) of torque. Combined, the system delivers a total output of 258 horsepower and 415 Nm (306 lb-ft) of torque. The powertrain is managed by a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), offering quick and smooth gear changes. The 11.3 kWh lithium-ion battery pack is located under the floor, providing an all-electric range of 56 kilometers (34.8 miles). The system allows for various driving modes, including pure electric, hybrid, and sport, optimizing for efficiency or performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5TD Plug-in Hybrid offers a refined driving experience, particularly in urban environments. In electric mode, the vehicle operates silently and provides instant torque, resulting in brisk acceleration. When the gasoline engine engages, the transition is generally seamless. The DCT transmission contributes to responsive shifting, although some drivers may notice slight hesitation at lower speeds. The combined power output of 258 hp provides adequate performance for highway cruising and overtaking maneuvers. Compared to lower-powered Jia Ji variants, the 1.5TD offers significantly improved acceleration and overall responsiveness. However, the added weight of the battery pack and electric motor does slightly impact handling agility compared to the standard gasoline-powered models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5TD Plug-in Hybrid trim typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a premium offering. Standard features included leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, automatic climate control, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included premium sound systems, upgraded interior trim materials, and a 360-degree camera system. The interior design focused on providing a comfortable and spacious environment for passengers, with ample legroom and headroom in all three rows.
Chassis & Braking
The Jia Ji 1.5TD utilizes a McPherson strut suspension setup at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. Stabilizer bars are included on both axles to minimize body roll during cornering. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, coupled with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD). The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort rather than sporty handling, prioritizing a smooth and stable ride for passengers.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Geely Jia Ji 1.5TD Plug-in Hybrid was generally well-received by Chinese automotive media and consumers. Critics praised its fuel efficiency, spacious interior, and advanced technology features. The plug-in hybrid powertrain was seen as a significant advantage, allowing for zero-emission driving in urban areas and reduced fuel consumption on longer journeys. Compared to other Jia Ji variants, the 1.5TD commanded a higher price tag, but the added performance and features were considered worthwhile by many buyers. Fuel economy figures of 1.6 l/100km were consistently reported, making it one of the most efficient vehicles in its class. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with few major issues reported by owners.
Legacy
The Geely Jia Ji 1.5TD Plug-in Hybrid represents a significant step forward for Geely in terms of powertrain technology and vehicle refinement. It demonstrated Geely’s commitment to developing more sustainable and efficient vehicles. While the Jia Ji itself has seen limited export sales outside of China, the technology developed for the 1.5TD Plug-in Hybrid has influenced subsequent Geely models. On the used car market, the Jia Ji 1.5TD holds its value relatively well, particularly among buyers seeking a spacious, fuel-efficient, and technologically advanced MPV. The powertrain, while complex, has proven to be reasonably reliable, with the battery pack maintaining a good level of performance over time.
