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Roewe i5
The Roewe i5 Max is a compact sedan from Roewe, a premium brand under SAIC Motor, which is one of China’s largest automotive groups. The i5 Max is an enhanced version of the original Roewe i5, offering more premium features, a larger size, a more dynamic design, and cutting-edge technology. The i5 Max is designed to provide a spacious, comfortable, and tech-filled driving experience with an emphasis on modernity, performance, and luxury features typically found in higher-end vehicles.
Type: Saloon
Engine type: Hybrid
Engine size (cc): 1500
Number of doors: 4
Number of seats: 5
1. Overview & Positioning
The Roewe i5 Max is positioned as a premium compact sedan that combines modern design, advanced technology, and spaciousness for families and individual drivers who want a feature-rich car without the premium price tag of luxury sedans. The i5 Max aims to attract those looking for a practical, well-appointed vehicle with good driving dynamics and an elevated sense of style.
By offering more space, higher-quality materials, and a more dynamic design compared to other vehicles in its class, the i5 Max makes a strong case for being a standout choice in China’s highly competitive compact sedan market.
2. Exterior Design
The Roewe i5 Max adopts a modern, sleek design that blends sportiness with elegance, offering a more refined and upmarket appearance compared to the standard i5. Its exterior reflects a balance between dynamic lines, aggressive styling, and a premium aesthetic, designed to attract buyers looking for a compact sedan with a distinctive presence.
Front Design
Bold Grille: The front of the i5 Max features a wide, chrome-accented grille with a modern honeycomb pattern. The grille is designed to give the car a sporty yet sophisticated look, with sharp lines leading toward the headlights.
Sleek LED Headlights: The headlights are sharp and angular, with LED technology for improved lighting efficiency and energy savings. These are paired with DRL (daytime running lights) to create a modern light signature.
Flowing Bumper Design: The front bumper is designed with sleek, aerodynamic lines and a bold lower air intake, which enhances both the car’s sporty appeal and its efficiency.
Side Profile
Sporty Lines: The side profile of the i5 Max features smooth, sculpted lines that run from the front to the rear, accentuating the car’s elongated body and dynamic proportions. The design is aimed at evoking a sense of movement, even when the car is stationary.
Chrome Window Accents: Chrome accents around the windows enhance the car's premium feel, contributing to a more upscale appearance.
Body-color Side Mirrors: The side mirrors are integrated with LED turn signal indicators for added convenience and visibility.
Multi-Spoke Alloy Wheels: The i5 Max comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, which provide a sporty and modern look while maintaining a smooth and comfortable ride.
Rear Design
Narrow LED Taillights: The rear of the i5 Max features slim, horizontally oriented LED taillights, which emphasize the car’s width and provide a modern, high-tech look. The design also integrates a light strip that connects the taillights for a more cohesive and stylish rear profile.
Sporty Rear Bumper: The rear bumper features a sporty design with integrated exhaust outlets, enhancing the sedan’s overall athletic and sleek character.
Subtle Lip Spoiler: A small, integrated lip spoiler adds an extra touch of sportiness to the rear, helping with aerodynamics.
Dimensions
Length: 4,670 mm (183.9 inches)
Width: 1,840 mm (72.4 inches)
Height: 1,470 mm (57.9 inches)
Wheelbase: 2,700 mm (106.3 inches)
The larger dimensions of the i5 Max make it a more spacious and roomy sedan compared to other compact sedans, offering better interior comfort while still being nimble enough for urban driving.
3. Interior and Comfort
The interior of the Roewe i5 Max is designed to create a premium feel with an emphasis on spaciousness, comfort, and modern technology. The cabin is finished with high-quality materials and features a driver-focused design with an abundance of technology and convenience features.
Cabin Design
Premium Materials: The cabin is equipped with soft-touch plastics, leather upholstery, and metal accents on the dashboard, center console, and door panels, providing a high-quality look and feel. The materials used are intended to enhance the car's premium appeal.
Minimalist Dashboard: The dashboard layout is clean and modern, with a floating center console that integrates the infotainment system and climate controls into a sleek, minimalist design.
Ambient Lighting: The interior features ambient lighting, which can be adjusted to enhance the overall atmosphere of the cabin, adding a luxurious touch during night drives.
Seating
Front Seats: The front seats are ergonomically designed to provide excellent support, with adjustable lumbar support, heated and ventilated seating available on higher trims. The seating materials are soft and premium, ensuring long-distance comfort.
Rear Seats: The rear seating area offers plenty of legroom and headroom, making it spacious enough for adult passengers. The seats are well-padded and feature a center armrest with cupholders for added convenience.
Power-Adjustable Seats: Higher trims offer power-adjustable front seats, providing a greater level of customization and comfort for drivers and passengers.
Cargo Space
Generous Trunk Space: The trunk capacity of the i5 Max is around 510 liters, which is quite spacious for the compact sedan class. The large trunk space allows for ample storage of luggage, groceries, and other items.
4. Powertrain and Performance
The Roewe i5 Max is available with a choice of gasoline engines that combine efficiency and performance. It is designed to provide a balanced driving experience, with an emphasis on comfort, fuel efficiency, and a smooth ride.
Engine Options
1.5L Turbocharged Engine: The primary engine option for the i5 Max is a 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, which produces around 169 hp (126 kW) and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque. This engine provides a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency, suitable for everyday driving.
1.5L Hybrid Engine (i5 Max eHybrid): The i5 Max is also offered as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), combining the 1.5L turbo engine with an electric motor. The combined output is approximately 220 hp (164 kW), with 330 Nm (243 lb-ft) of torque, offering a more fuel-efficient option for drivers who are looking to reduce their environmental impact. The electric-only range is around 50-60 km (31-37 miles).
Transmission
The i5 Max is typically paired with a 6-speed manual transmission on lower trims, while higher trims feature a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT). The DCT provides smooth gear transitions and is more efficient in terms of performance and fuel consumption.
Performance and Handling
Acceleration: The i5 Max with the 1.5L turbocharged engine accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in approximately 8.5-9 seconds, which is quite competitive for its class.
Top Speed: The top speed is around 200 km/h (124 mph), allowing for solid highway performance.
Fuel Efficiency
The i5 Max delivers impressive fuel efficiency, with the 1.5L turbocharged engine returning approximately 6.5 to 7.0 liters per 100 km (36-40 mpg). The PHEV variant is expected to offer significantly lower fuel consumption, with a combined fuel economy of around 1.5 to 2.0 liters per 100 km (117-140 mpg equivalent).
Suspension and Ride Quality
The i5 Max features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, which provides a comfortable, smooth ride while also allowing for a more sporty driving experience when desired.
Driving Modes
The i5 Max comes with multiple driving modes, such as Eco, Normal, and Sport, allowing the driver to adjust the car’s performance characteristics according to their preferences.
5. Technology and Features
The Roewe i5 Max is equipped with a suite of advanced technologies designed to improve both driver convenience and passenger comfort.
Infotainment System
10.1-inch Touchscreen: The i5 Max features a large, high-definition 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system that is responsive and easy to use. The system includes a navigation system, smartphone connectivity via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and access to various media and apps.
Premium Audio System: Higher trims come with a premium audio system, providing high-quality sound for music lovers.
Driver Assistance Features
The i5 Max is equipped with a variety of advanced safety and driver-assistance technologies, including:
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
Lane Keep Assist (LKA)
Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)
Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM)
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA)
360-degree Camera System for parking assistance and low-speed maneuvers
Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR)
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Additional Features
Wireless Charging Pad for smartphones
Keyless Entry & Start
Dual-zone Climate Control
Panoramic Sunroof (available on higher trims)
Adaptive Headlights
6. Pricing and Market Availability
The Roewe i5 Max is primarily available in China, where it competes with compact sedans from brands like Volkswagen, Honda, and Toyota. The pricing for the i5 Max varies depending on the trim level and engine options but typically ranges from ¥120,000 to ¥170,000 (approximately $16,500 to $23,500 USD). This pricing places it in the affordable yet premium-segment, making it a great choice for consumers who want a well-equipped sedan without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
The Roewe i5 Max stands out as a stylish, spacious, and well-equipped compact sedan that offers a premium driving experience at an affordable price. With its modern design, advanced technology, and solid performance, the i5 Max is an excellent choice for those looking for a family-friendly sedan that doesn’t compromise on comfort, features, or style. Its competitive pricing and advanced features make it an attractive option for the growing Chinese market, while also appealing to consumers in other markets looking for a value-driven compact sedan.
The Roewe i5 Max is positioned as a premium compact sedan that combines modern design, advanced technology, and spaciousness for families and individual drivers who want a feature-rich car without the premium price tag of luxury sedans. The i5 Max aims to attract those looking for a practical, well-appointed vehicle with good driving dynamics and an elevated sense of style.
By offering more space, higher-quality materials, and a more dynamic design compared to other vehicles in its class, the i5 Max makes a strong case for being a standout choice in China’s highly competitive compact sedan market.
2. Exterior Design
The Roewe i5 Max adopts a modern, sleek design that blends sportiness with elegance, offering a more refined and upmarket appearance compared to the standard i5. Its exterior reflects a balance between dynamic lines, aggressive styling, and a premium aesthetic, designed to attract buyers looking for a compact sedan with a distinctive presence.
Front Design
Bold Grille: The front of the i5 Max features a wide, chrome-accented grille with a modern honeycomb pattern. The grille is designed to give the car a sporty yet sophisticated look, with sharp lines leading toward the headlights.
Sleek LED Headlights: The headlights are sharp and angular, with LED technology for improved lighting efficiency and energy savings. These are paired with DRL (daytime running lights) to create a modern light signature.
Flowing Bumper Design: The front bumper is designed with sleek, aerodynamic lines and a bold lower air intake, which enhances both the car’s sporty appeal and its efficiency.
Side Profile
Sporty Lines: The side profile of the i5 Max features smooth, sculpted lines that run from the front to the rear, accentuating the car’s elongated body and dynamic proportions. The design is aimed at evoking a sense of movement, even when the car is stationary.
Chrome Window Accents: Chrome accents around the windows enhance the car's premium feel, contributing to a more upscale appearance.
Body-color Side Mirrors: The side mirrors are integrated with LED turn signal indicators for added convenience and visibility.
Multi-Spoke Alloy Wheels: The i5 Max comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, which provide a sporty and modern look while maintaining a smooth and comfortable ride.
Rear Design
Narrow LED Taillights: The rear of the i5 Max features slim, horizontally oriented LED taillights, which emphasize the car’s width and provide a modern, high-tech look. The design also integrates a light strip that connects the taillights for a more cohesive and stylish rear profile.
Sporty Rear Bumper: The rear bumper features a sporty design with integrated exhaust outlets, enhancing the sedan’s overall athletic and sleek character.
Subtle Lip Spoiler: A small, integrated lip spoiler adds an extra touch of sportiness to the rear, helping with aerodynamics.
Dimensions
Length: 4,670 mm (183.9 inches)
Width: 1,840 mm (72.4 inches)
Height: 1,470 mm (57.9 inches)
Wheelbase: 2,700 mm (106.3 inches)
The larger dimensions of the i5 Max make it a more spacious and roomy sedan compared to other compact sedans, offering better interior comfort while still being nimble enough for urban driving.
3. Interior and Comfort
The interior of the Roewe i5 Max is designed to create a premium feel with an emphasis on spaciousness, comfort, and modern technology. The cabin is finished with high-quality materials and features a driver-focused design with an abundance of technology and convenience features.
Cabin Design
Premium Materials: The cabin is equipped with soft-touch plastics, leather upholstery, and metal accents on the dashboard, center console, and door panels, providing a high-quality look and feel. The materials used are intended to enhance the car's premium appeal.
Minimalist Dashboard: The dashboard layout is clean and modern, with a floating center console that integrates the infotainment system and climate controls into a sleek, minimalist design.
Ambient Lighting: The interior features ambient lighting, which can be adjusted to enhance the overall atmosphere of the cabin, adding a luxurious touch during night drives.
Seating
Front Seats: The front seats are ergonomically designed to provide excellent support, with adjustable lumbar support, heated and ventilated seating available on higher trims. The seating materials are soft and premium, ensuring long-distance comfort.
Rear Seats: The rear seating area offers plenty of legroom and headroom, making it spacious enough for adult passengers. The seats are well-padded and feature a center armrest with cupholders for added convenience.
Power-Adjustable Seats: Higher trims offer power-adjustable front seats, providing a greater level of customization and comfort for drivers and passengers.
Cargo Space
Generous Trunk Space: The trunk capacity of the i5 Max is around 510 liters, which is quite spacious for the compact sedan class. The large trunk space allows for ample storage of luggage, groceries, and other items.
4. Powertrain and Performance
The Roewe i5 Max is available with a choice of gasoline engines that combine efficiency and performance. It is designed to provide a balanced driving experience, with an emphasis on comfort, fuel efficiency, and a smooth ride.
Engine Options
1.5L Turbocharged Engine: The primary engine option for the i5 Max is a 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, which produces around 169 hp (126 kW) and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque. This engine provides a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency, suitable for everyday driving.
1.5L Hybrid Engine (i5 Max eHybrid): The i5 Max is also offered as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), combining the 1.5L turbo engine with an electric motor. The combined output is approximately 220 hp (164 kW), with 330 Nm (243 lb-ft) of torque, offering a more fuel-efficient option for drivers who are looking to reduce their environmental impact. The electric-only range is around 50-60 km (31-37 miles).
Transmission
The i5 Max is typically paired with a 6-speed manual transmission on lower trims, while higher trims feature a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT). The DCT provides smooth gear transitions and is more efficient in terms of performance and fuel consumption.
Performance and Handling
Acceleration: The i5 Max with the 1.5L turbocharged engine accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in approximately 8.5-9 seconds, which is quite competitive for its class.
Top Speed: The top speed is around 200 km/h (124 mph), allowing for solid highway performance.
Fuel Efficiency
The i5 Max delivers impressive fuel efficiency, with the 1.5L turbocharged engine returning approximately 6.5 to 7.0 liters per 100 km (36-40 mpg). The PHEV variant is expected to offer significantly lower fuel consumption, with a combined fuel economy of around 1.5 to 2.0 liters per 100 km (117-140 mpg equivalent).
Suspension and Ride Quality
The i5 Max features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, which provides a comfortable, smooth ride while also allowing for a more sporty driving experience when desired.
Driving Modes
The i5 Max comes with multiple driving modes, such as Eco, Normal, and Sport, allowing the driver to adjust the car’s performance characteristics according to their preferences.
5. Technology and Features
The Roewe i5 Max is equipped with a suite of advanced technologies designed to improve both driver convenience and passenger comfort.
Infotainment System
10.1-inch Touchscreen: The i5 Max features a large, high-definition 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system that is responsive and easy to use. The system includes a navigation system, smartphone connectivity via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and access to various media and apps.
Premium Audio System: Higher trims come with a premium audio system, providing high-quality sound for music lovers.
Driver Assistance Features
The i5 Max is equipped with a variety of advanced safety and driver-assistance technologies, including:
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
Lane Keep Assist (LKA)
Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)
Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM)
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA)
360-degree Camera System for parking assistance and low-speed maneuvers
Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR)
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Additional Features
Wireless Charging Pad for smartphones
Keyless Entry & Start
Dual-zone Climate Control
Panoramic Sunroof (available on higher trims)
Adaptive Headlights
6. Pricing and Market Availability
The Roewe i5 Max is primarily available in China, where it competes with compact sedans from brands like Volkswagen, Honda, and Toyota. The pricing for the i5 Max varies depending on the trim level and engine options but typically ranges from ¥120,000 to ¥170,000 (approximately $16,500 to $23,500 USD). This pricing places it in the affordable yet premium-segment, making it a great choice for consumers who want a well-equipped sedan without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
The Roewe i5 Max stands out as a stylish, spacious, and well-equipped compact sedan that offers a premium driving experience at an affordable price. With its modern design, advanced technology, and solid performance, the i5 Max is an excellent choice for those looking for a family-friendly sedan that doesn’t compromise on comfort, features, or style. Its competitive pricing and advanced features make it an attractive option for the growing Chinese market, while also appealing to consumers in other markets looking for a value-driven compact sedan.
