The Trumpchi GS3 Power I (facelift 2020) 235T, a compact SUV produced by Guangzhou Automobile Group (GAC) Motor under the Trumpchi brand, represented a significant update to the original GS3. Introduced in October 2020 and continuing through February 2023, this variant aimed to provide a balance of affordability, fuel efficiency, and modern features within the competitive Chinese automotive market. The “Power I” designation signified a refreshed design and, crucially, a new engine option. This particular 235T trim, equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing 163 horsepower, positioned itself as a mid-range offering within the GS3 lineup, slotting above the base models and below any potential higher-performance variants.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Trumpchi |
| Model | GS3 |
| Generation | GS3 Power I (facelift 2020) |
| Type (Engine) | 235T (163 Hp) |
| Start of production | October, 2020 |
| End of production | February, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.9-8.0 l/100 km (29.8 – 29.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.9-5.0 l/100 km (48 – 47 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.0-6.1 l/100 km (39.2 – 38.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | China VI |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.1 kg/Hp, 122.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 177 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 235 Nm @ 1500-4000 rpm (173.33 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 3B15J1 |
| Engine displacement | 1493 cm3 (91.11 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1328-1371 kg (2927.74 – 3022.54 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1780 kg (3924.23 lbs.) |
| Max load | 409-452 kg (901.69 – 996.49 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 48 l (12.68 US gal | 10.56 UK gal) |
| Length | 4350 mm (171.26 in.) |
| Width | 1825 mm (71.85 in.) |
| Height | 1685 mm (66.34 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2560 mm (100.79 in.) |
| Front track | 1554 mm (61.18 in.) |
| Rear track | 1550 mm (61.02 in.) |
| Front overhang | 911 mm (35.87 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 879 mm (34.61 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 150 mm (5.91 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 18° |
| Departure angle | 21° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| 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 | 215/60 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the GS3 235T is the 3B15J1, a 1.5-liter inline three-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is coupled with a single turbocharger and intercooler to boost power output. The engine’s design prioritizes efficiency and responsiveness, with the turbocharger providing increased torque at lower RPMs. The DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain further contributes to improved engine breathing and performance. The 6-speed manual transmission was the sole transmission option for this variant, offering drivers a more engaging driving experience compared to an automatic. The engine’s 11.3:1 compression ratio is relatively high for a turbocharged engine, contributing to thermal efficiency. The engine also incorporates a Start & Stop system to further reduce fuel consumption during city driving.
Driving Characteristics
The 163 horsepower and 235 Nm (173 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 235T engine provided adequate performance for daily commuting and highway driving. While not a sports-oriented vehicle, the turbocharger helped to mitigate the inherent torque deficit often associated with smaller displacement engines. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 10.6 seconds. The 6-speed manual transmission allowed for precise gear selection, enabling drivers to maximize the engine’s power band. Compared to potential higher-output versions (had they existed), the 235T prioritized fuel economy and a smoother, more relaxed driving experience. The manual transmission, while engaging, required more driver involvement than an automatic, which might have appealed to a smaller segment of the market.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GS3 Power I 235T typically came equipped with standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a basic infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for upgraded materials available. Higher trim levels within the 235T range might have included features like a larger touchscreen display, a rearview camera, and keyless entry. The overall interior design was functional and modern, though material quality was generally in line with the vehicle’s price point.
Chassis & Braking
The GS3 235T utilized a front-wheel-drive configuration with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a torsion beam suspension in the rear. This setup provided a reasonable balance of ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The electric power steering offered light and easy steering feel, making it well-suited for urban driving. The relatively lightweight construction of the vehicle (1328-1371 kg) helped to contribute to its overall agility.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Trumpchi GS3 Power I 235T was generally well-received in the Chinese market as a practical and affordable compact SUV. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and modern styling. Compared to other trims in the GS3 lineup, the 235T offered a compelling balance of performance and economy. Its fuel consumption figures of 6.0-6.1 l/100 km were competitive within its segment. However, some reviewers noted that the three-cylinder engine could be somewhat noisy and lacked the refinement of larger displacement engines.
Legacy
The 3B15J1 engine, while not known for exceptional longevity or complexity, has proven to be reasonably reliable in the GS3. In the used car market, the GS3 235T represents a value-oriented option for buyers seeking an affordable and fuel-efficient SUV. Maintenance costs are generally moderate, and parts availability is good within China. The GS3 Power I, including the 235T variant, helped to establish Trumpchi as a credible player in the Chinese automotive industry, paving the way for future models and technological advancements.
