2012-2016 Great Wall Voleex C50 1.5 (133 Hp)

The Great Wall Voleex C50 1.5, produced between 2012 and 2016, represented Great Wall Motors’ initial foray into the competitive compact sedan segment. Positioned as a mainstream offering, the C50 aimed to deliver a balance of affordability, practicality, and modern features to consumers. This specific variant, powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 133 horsepower, was a crucial component of the C50 lineup, targeting buyers seeking a reasonably efficient and adequately powered vehicle. The Voleex brand, though short-lived, was intended to signify a more refined and contemporary image for Great Wall, moving away from its traditional focus on utilitarian vehicles.

Technical Specifications

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

The Voleex C50 1.5’s powertrain centers around a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder engine, identified by various internal codes depending on the production year. This engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder. A significant characteristic of this engine is its turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, which substantially increases power output compared to naturally aspirated engines. The fuel delivery system utilizes multi-point fuel injection, ensuring precise fuel metering for optimal combustion efficiency. The turbocharging system delivers a noticeable boost in torque, particularly at lower engine speeds, enhancing drivability in everyday driving scenarios. The engine is mounted transversely at the front of the vehicle, powering the front wheels. A five-speed manual transmission was the standard transmission option for this variant, providing a direct mechanical link between the engine and the wheels.

Driving Characteristics

The Voleex C50 1.5, producing 133 horsepower and 188 Nm (138.66 lb-ft) of torque, offered adequate performance for typical commuting and highway driving. While not designed as a particularly sporty vehicle, the turbocharger provided a useful surge of power during acceleration. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to maintain optimal engine speed for various driving conditions. Compared to potential higher-output variants (which were not widely available), the 1.5-liter engine prioritized fuel efficiency over outright performance. The gear ratios were tuned to balance acceleration and fuel economy, with a relatively tall fifth gear for comfortable cruising. The steering was light and easy to maneuver, making it well-suited for urban environments, although it lacked the precision found in some European competitors.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The Voleex C50 1.5 typically came equipped with a standard set of features designed to provide a comfortable and convenient driving experience. These included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system with AM/FM radio and a CD player. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with a simple and functional dashboard layout. Optional extras, depending on the market and year, could include alloy wheels, an upgraded audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and a sunroof. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard, but more advanced safety systems like electronic stability control were often omitted.

Chassis & Braking

The Voleex C50 1.5 utilized a front-wheel-drive chassis with an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a semi-independent coil spring suspension at the rear. This suspension setup provided a reasonable level of ride comfort, though it wasn’t particularly sophisticated. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. The steering system employed a rack and pinion setup, offering relatively light and responsive steering feel. The standard tire size was 205/55 R16, mounted on 16-inch steel or alloy wheels.

Market Reception & Comparison

The Great Wall Voleex C50 1.5 received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While praised for its affordability and decent level of equipment, it was often criticized for its relatively basic interior quality and lack of refinement compared to established competitors from brands like Toyota, Honda, and Hyundai. Fuel economy was generally considered reasonable, but not exceptional. In terms of reliability, the Voleex C50 had a somewhat mixed reputation, with some owners reporting issues with the engine and electrical systems. Compared to other trims in the C50 lineup (if available), the 1.5-liter variant offered a more accessible price point and better fuel economy, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.

Legacy

The Great Wall Voleex C50, and the Voleex brand itself, were discontinued after a relatively short production run. While it didn’t achieve significant sales success, it represented an important step for Great Wall Motors in its attempt to move upmarket and compete with established automotive brands. Today, the Voleex C50 1.5 can be found on the used car market, typically at very affordable prices. The 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, while not known for exceptional longevity, can provide reliable service with proper maintenance. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for issues with the engine and electrical systems, and should carefully inspect any vehicle before purchase. The C50 serves as a reminder of Great Wall’s early ambitions and its evolving approach to automotive design and engineering.