January 26, 2014, 01:32
Model: FAW Besturn X80
Year: 2014 Rating:In short:
Small trunk, only front-wheel drive, high cornering valkost, .
Crossover FAW Besturn X80 was the general public at the end of April 2013 car show in Shanghai. This autoforum, by tradition, is one of the most significant for car manufacturers from China, because the models presented here are primarily aimed at the markets of the Asian region.
The premiere of the X80 crossover from the giant of the Chinese automobile industry, the FAW concern, turned out to be interesting for domestic motorists. The fact is that the presented car is planned in the near future. So, Besturn X80 will be first presented at the motor show in Moscow, after which official sales will start in dealerships.
Brand history
It is worth noting that the FAW concern, established in the mid-1950s with the direct participation of specialists from the USSR, became the first automobile plant in the People's Republic of China. Today FAW is one of the largest automakers in China. The concern owns almost three dozen subsidiaries. In addition, the Chinese manufacturer is involved in joint ventures with giants such as Toyota, Volkswagen and Mazda. According to foreign experts, the production sites of the FAW plant are the most modern.
For potential buyers from Russia, the FAW Besturn X80 can definitely be called an interesting car in every respect. This body type, like a compact crossover, is very popular today in our country. The basis for the appearance of the X80 production version was laid three years ago, when the debut of the FAW X concept took place at the Shanghai Motor Show in 2011. The very attractive appearance of the car was noted by an overwhelming number of experts, including professional auto critics.
Modern looking crossover
When looking at the car, the appearance features of the first generation Infiniti FX and the current best-selling Mazda CX-5 are clearly captured. True, according to the assurances of FAW officials, the exterior of their X80 model was developed without regard to eminent competitors, but taking into account modern trends in automotive design.
Be that as it may, the appearance of the crossover turned out to be harmonious and attractive. Modern head optics with integrated LED daytime running lights look good in tandem with an expressive grille, in the middle of which, the manufacturer's emblem flaunts. The sloping roof, turning into a visor - a spoiler of the fifth door, gives dynamics to the exterior of the Chinese car.
Impressive bumpers of unusual geometry, combined with two exhaust pipes, add a sporty and slightly aggressive spirit to the appearance of the car. Perhaps the reversing lights look somewhat odd, as if they were attached to the tailgate from another car.
The creators of the car did not stint on the chrome finish of body elements, including door handles, roof rails, fog lamp surrounds and a radiator grille. In this regard, the eastern school of design and the indulgence of the tastes of the Chinese car enthusiast are clearly visible. But the gaps between the body elements are uniform, walking joints along the car body are definitely not to be found.
A quality salon is half the success
But, perhaps, the interior of the car surprises even more pleasantly. Sitting behind the wheel of the FAW Besturn X80, we can say with absolute certainty that the interior architecture was not taken from abandoned Toyota warehouses, which store interior details from the late 80s of the last century. Indeed, unfortunately, most automakers from the Middle Kingdom continue to act in exactly this way, copying design trends that have long been outdated. The quality of the interior of the X80 crossover, of course, does not reach the standards of the most famous brands, but it can compete with inexpensive models from Europe or South Korea.
Soft plastic is used approximately equally with hard plastic. The steering wheel, optimal in diameter and section, is covered with high-quality leatherette and lies comfortably in the palms. The neat keys of the controls are arranged in logical blocks. The dashboard is a pair of deep wells, at the bottom of which the main instruments are removed. Indications are well read, regardless of the time of day.
The front seats are generally not bad, but they don’t cause much enthusiasm for the convenience of landing. Obviously, on long trips, the backs of the driver and front passenger will have a hard time. But three people can comfortably fit on the back sofa, however, thanks to a sharp decrease in the roof line in its rear part, tall riders can rest their heads against the ceiling.
Among other disadvantages of the cabin, one can note the smallish on-board computer screen, located in the middle of the front panel above the center console. In addition, the information on the computer screen is difficult to perceive due to the fading of the image. Unfortunately, the glove box turned out to be impressive only in appearance, but in reality there was very little space in it. As for the luggage compartment, a large part of it was “eaten” by the dynamic roof profile. The luggage capacity of the X80 is modest, for this class of car, 400 liters. The interior is transformed quite well, having expanded the rear seats, you can get an almost flat floor surface.
The overall impression of the interior assembly level is very pleasant. Sitting inside the car, it is almost impossible to understand that this is the brainchild of the Chinese auto industry in its usual sense. Depending on the selected configuration, the car can be equipped with four airbags and side air curtains, ABS and EBD systems.
Passengers are offered a dual-zone climate control system, as well as a modern multimedia complex that includes navigation, Bluetooth support and other devices. The engine is started with a button, and at the request of the buyer, the interior of the car can be covered in light or dark leather.
Technical indicators of the car
Speaking about the technical side of the car, it is worth saying that the FAW X80 is built on the platform of the second generation of the Mazda 6, which was equipped with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link suspension at the rear. The dimensions of the car are 4,586 mm long, 1,820 mm wide and 1,662 mm high. The clearance of the crossover is not so impressive and is equal to 190 mm. At the same time, only front-wheel drive versions of the model will be sold in Russia.
Considering the Japanese Mazda platform, the car is not bad to drive, however, if the Mazda suspension is quite dense, and even stiff on some models, then the X80 has a completely different character. The behavior of the car resembles an imposing "American". Steep turns are contraindicated for this car. Banks, even at a relatively low speed, cause serious discomfort. At the same time, on straight sections of the road, the car holds the road well, confidently swallowing not only small and medium bumps, but also more serious potholes. All four wheels of the crossover are equipped with ventilated disc brakes.
What's under the hood?
The crossover is equipped with one of two Mazda gasoline engines. The base will be a 2-liter engine developing 145 hp. and having a torque indicator of 184 Nm at 4000 rpm. For such a power unit, a 6-speed manual gearbox is provided, as well as a 6-band robotic gearbox.
The second engine has 158 horsepower with a 2.3-liter displacement. The torque of such an engine is equal to 207 Nm at 4000 rpm. A more powerful motor is aggregated exclusively with a robotic gearbox. Both engines comply with the requirements of the Euro-5 environmental standard and will please the owner of the car with moderate fuel consumption.
In the combined cycle, the more “gluttonous” 2.3-liter unit consumes no more than 10 liters of gasoline per 100 kilometers. It is worth noting that, according to representatives of the manufacturer, the new Chinese crossover will receive an adaptive-type robotic box. Such a unit is able to adjust to the driving style of a particular driver, thereby optimizing dynamic and fuel performance.
In the arsenal of the manufacturer there is another power unit. This is a 1.8-liter turbocharged engine developed by FAW engineers together with Toyota specialists. But, since the installation of such an engine will be carried out a little later, the authors of the car do not provide more detailed information about it.
Prospects in Russia
Summing up, it can be noted that the new car not only made a good impression, but became an actual confirmation that the time when full-fledged cars will be produced in China is coming.
The segment, which includes the FAW X80, is characterized by fierce competition from more famous manufacturers. Crossovers in Russia are a success among all categories of buyers. In this connection, the key point will be the price of the presented car. If the cost of the X80 in the average configuration will be 700-750 thousand rubles in Russia, as the creators of the crossover plan, then the demand for the model will be ensured. It is unlikely that this will be a resounding success in the domestic market, but if the authors of the car change the settings of its suspension, then the new “Chinese” will certainly take it.
Mileage: 2500 km
It so happened that he took a new petrol Chinese. The choice was not very long, a couple of months decided and bought. Taken from stock.
Normal automatic transmission, sunroof, ground clearance 190 mm, soft torpedo, adjustable lumbar support, many drawers and a normal armrest, full spare tire, multi-link, 64-liter fuel, short-stroke engine (I suspect that from Mazda, something from the MZR series), rear seats laid out on a flat floor without a step, tire pressure sensors, power steering. While running in and was not disappointed even once. If anyone is not afraid of China and the fact that the brand is very rare on our roads, in my opinion it is quite a normal device.
Advantages:
1. Engine. For myself, I decided not to turn above 3000 rpm up to 3000 km, so I drive calmly for now, but after about 2000 km I noticed that, subjectively, traction has increased. I notice on the same long rise in engine speed. Since the engine is short-stroke, it seems to like to spin. In the meantime, for the city, the dynamics are enough for the eyes, and I overtook trucks along the highway, twisted up to 2500 rpm, I didn’t experience any problems with overtaking, I thought it would be worse. Already used to the turbodiesel on the old car, there is always thrust shaft. But so far, he has not been disappointed.
2. Geometry. It is clear that this car will not compete in cross-country ability with the same Duster, but the entry / exit angles are quite normal (26/27, respectively). Already climbed a little on the broken primer. Didn't get stuck anywhere. Although the primer is different, and perhaps where I drive, it will be bullshit for you. But for my needs, behind the eyes.
3. Suspension. Rolls are small. At first, I thought that after the sedan there would be some kind of strong difference. Yes, there are rolls, but not critical ones in order to somehow focus on them. By its nature, the suspension is perhaps similar to the Sportage 2 suspension, dense. In the city, where I used to slow down, now I am walking, but without fanaticism.
4. The tank is really 64 liters, maybe even more, or maybe the gas stations are just lying. The pointer was half a tank, maybe just a little less, I think well, up to a full fit of 30-32 liters. Climbed 37 liters. Just yesterday I refueled, it was a little less than 3/4 of a tank, I also thought that no more than 15-17 liters would fit in, 22 fit in.
5. Box. Here it is interesting. There is no mention in the book what exactly the box is on the car, whose specific hydrotrans, but on Chinese sites if translated, it seems like Korean Aisin. True or not, I'm still digging, but so far everything seems to be fine. Switches softly and quickly, but the first 1500 km somewhere is clearly stupid. Now I don't really notice it. There is a sport mode and a manual mode. It’s more convenient to drive uphill manually, in a drive it tries to keep the gear higher all the time, which is not always convenient. True, here the Chinese also pinned, in manual mode, switch to a higher gear, this is not to push the lever away from you, but on the contrary - to pull it towards you.
6. The car warms up quickly enough. The engine temperature in normal mode is 93 degrees on tidy. In traffic jams from 88 to 100. In winter, let's see how warm it will be, until everything is ok.
7. Taxiing. I did not notice at all any cardinal difference with the trade wind. Gur there, gur here. Zero is clear enough, I always understand how the wheels are turned. The steering wheel rotates quite easily, with one hand it is not a problem to steer. Rutting is not particularly felt. but it’s still dry now, but in the winter it will be visible and then I’ll unsubscribe. On the highway, the car is not blown away by the wind, it is quite heavy - 1545 kg curb weight according to the passport.
8. Salon and trunk. Here is beauty in general. Plenty of room, front and back. Lots of drawers to put junk in. Underfloor trunk. The cover of the subfloor is double, which is convenient. you can get to the spare tire without unloading all the bags. Rubber mats took in the cabin. Fasten well, do not crawl.
9. Head light. Lens headlights. Dipped beam with a clear border of chiaroscuro, takes some getting used to. On the highway it is quite sufficient for itself, the distant one is good. Nothing has been lost compared to the previous car. The fog lights do a good job of illuminating the roadside. The rear fogs are cut separately.
10. I remembered about the brakes. Brakes discs in a circle. Slows down well, predictably. Never strained after the old trade wind.
Well, all sorts of nishtyaki in trifles. The washer reservoir is probably 6 liters for sure. The whole eggplant of the non-freeze climbed in. Window lifters are similar on all windows. Luke is cool. Radio catches well, certainly better than on the old car. Mirrors fold automatically if you put on the signaling. There is no rain sensor and I'm fucking happy about it. A fairly large adjustment of the frequency of the wipers, but at the minimum speed, I would like an even rarer operation. There is a single swing. Cabin mirror with auto-dimming light sensor. Cool. Tire pressure sensors really work. From the passenger compartment, 3 wheels were pumped up to 3 atm, and one to 2.3, and the pressure icon on the tidy sometimes blinked. I thought maybe it was buggy until I checked the pressure in the wheels with a pressure gauge. Equalized the pressure. the icon on the dash went out.
The compact crossover Besturn X80 is a newcomer only by Russian standards. The car has been rolling off the assembly line of the largest Chinese manufacturer FAW (First Automobile Works) since 2013, and uses units from the world's largest manufacturers. Forgive us the official FAW dealer in Yekaterinburg, the AvtoLegion company, but the only thing unique about the FAW Besturn X80 is its appearance. The point is this. Automakers all over the planet look with envy at the Chinese market, but Chinese law prohibits the direct import of cars. There is only one way out: to create a joint venture and establish a SKD assembly. The Chinese themselves are not stupid either: they buy a license for the platform, engine, gearbox and build cars on proven units.
Overview of the FAW Besturn X80
The FAW Besturn X80 crossover was created on the first generation Mazda6 platform (Mazda GG platform) - a relative of the Ford Mondeo, Volvo S60 and Jaguar X-Type. Engines - a 2.0-liter unit with 142 hp. (184 N / m) and a 2.3-liter engine about 160 “horses” (207 N / m) she shared. There are two gearboxes, a 6-speed manual and a classic automatic with 6 gears from Aisin (Japan). Is FAV Besturn X80 beautiful? At a minimum, it is original, and the traditional image is “diluted” with interesting design solutions. Estimate the point of convergence of the window sill line, rear door glazing and roof. Or rear reflectors in the bumper and "three-dimensional" lights, where each light element is sunk to a different height. Take a look at how original the combination of fender, roof and rear window is. In the last issue of Kartel, we talked about another novelty of the AvtoLegion dealership, the Zotye T600 crossover, and expressed our conviction that the third wave of Chinese cars is coming. But in the heat of work, one important feature was forgotten - a minimum of unnecessary gloss and non-functional details. This also applies to the FAW Besturn X80: chrome and nickel are in moderation here. In the cabin, it was not possible to get rid of the love for electronics: the first thing that falls on the eye is a huge stereo system monitor on Android. Like any phone and tablet, it has GPS navigation, the ability to view photos and videos, phone calls, radio and a whole bunch of applications from Google Play. The display also shows a picture from the rear view camera with dynamic (!) markings. Almost European interior with modern build quality. We got the basic equipment of the FAW Besturn X80 for the test - it is equipped with air conditioning, not climate control and lacks a pair of keys on the steering wheel. But it is ready to boast of the electric drive of all windows and mirrors with the folding function, heated seats, a sunroof, a USB port and an AUX input. In higher trim levels, cruise control, an electric driver's seat and even little things appear.How does the FAW Besturn X80 ride?
On the move, the FAW Besturn X80 is good - a torque of 184 newtons per meter is already achieved at four thousand revolutions per minute. Acceleration is quite linear - the more you press the accelerator pedal, the faster. The engine brings no surprises: Mazda's developments are more than a dozen years old, and there is nothing to improve here. Although, the Chinese distinguished themselves in another way, adapting the engine to our 92 gasoline. According to FAW specialists, the crossover is equipped with a Mazda engine. The gearbox with sport mode and manual shifting does not like the first ranges and tends to climb higher. Before taking the X80 for a test drive, I spoke with the owners, including those who bought the crossover from the AvtoLegion company. They say that after the initial break-in, the “automatic” changes its character and starts switching faster than an example. One of the men who owned a European car with a “robot” repeated the subjective opinion several times: for him there is no difference between the boxes. Although, there is: the classic fluid mechanics of the FAW does not twitch in traffic jams, but it serves hundreds of thousands of kilometers without problems. And we recall that it was developed and released by the Japanese from Aisin, who have been producing transmissions for more than 70 years. The distance from the back of the driver's seat to the seat of the sofa is as much as 38 centimeters, so you can even cross your legs in the back. The brakes are exemplary - I wouldn’t be surprised if they were either adjusted on the racetracks, or bought as a whole and only mounted on regular places. At the same time, the process of stopping is predictable and pleasant both on asphalt, and on slush, and on mixed. In this regard, they can compete with the settings of the French and Italians, who got their hands on mountain serpentines. The crossover suspension is traditional: MacPherson strut in front, multi-link in the back. Such a scheme is optimal not only for financial reasons, but also for the construction of all-wheel drive. Close "relatives" of the FAV Besturn X80 - Mazda Altezza, Mazda6 (including MPS) and CX5 - contain modifications with automatically connected all-wheel drive in the model range. A camera with dynamic markings is the prerogative of much more than other cars. The pride of FAW Corporation is the laser welding technology used in the assembly of the Besturn X80. Such a scheme increases the strength of the body not only in the event of an accident, but also has a positive effect on handling. After all, the less the body "plays back" on the bumps in the road, the more predictable the control becomes at any speed.Summarizing
The Chinese continue to amaze with progress. Each new model is a breakthrough, each new solution is tested. Looking at the FAV Besturn X80, you are amazed at how the culture of production and technology is improving. Against the background of the legal borrowing of components and assemblies of the same Mazda, you begin to pay less attention to annoying little things, and you begin to appreciate the very existence of FAW more. Cartel magazine thanks the only official FAW car dealer in Yekaterinburg, AvtoLegion, for their help in preparing the test drive. AutoLegion is convinced that soon there will be many X80s on the streets.Features FAW Besturn X80:
| Model | Comfort 2.0AT |
| Transmission | 6 speed automatic |
| Dimensions (mm) | 4 586 / 1 820 / 1 695 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2 675 |
| Clearance (mm) | 190 |
| Curb weight (kg) | N.d. |
| Gross weight (kg) | 2 035 |
| Luggage compartment volume (l) | 398 |
| Engine volume (cc) | 1 999 |
| Maximum power (hp at rpm) | 142 |
| Torque (N/m) | 184 |
| Max Speed | N.d. |
| Acceleration to 100 km/h | N.d. |
| Fuel consumption in the urban cycle | N.d. |
In the exterior of the car, the following elements attract attention:
- Radiator grille. The chrome-plated radiator grill is in harmony with the massive bumper.
- Head optics. The tapered headlights with integrated LED daytime running light strips add style and modernity to the vehicle.
- Rear view mirrors. Heated side mirrors, painted in body color, are equipped with an electric drive and repeaters.
- roof rails. On the roof there are metal rails for comfortable transportation of goods.
- Wheel disks. The image of the model is completed by the original 17" alloy wheels.
Interior
The spacious, ergonomic cabin with high-quality finishing materials can easily accommodate five people.In the interior of the car, the following elements attract attention:
- Comfort seats. Comfortable front seats are heated and adjustable in 6 (driver) and 4 (passenger) directions.
- Multifunction steering wheel. The three-spoke multifunction steering wheel with leather trim and power steering is height and reach adjustable.
- Dashboard. On the informative instrument panel with two wells of the tachometer and speedometer there is an on-board computer screen.
- multimedia system. The modern multimedia system is equipped with an 8” touch screen, USB port and 6 speakers.
In the Chinese market, the mid-size urban crossover FAW Besturn X80 began to be sold back in 2013, in fact, immediately after the world debut at the Shanghai Motor Show. He was supposed to get to Russia only a year later, but due to a change in the manufacturer's plans, he appeared only recently. Initially, the “new” model of the oldest automobile company in China, FAW, was offered in our country in a single Comfort configuration, and today it is already available in two trim levels with different levels of equipment - by no means poor, by the way. About what this crossover has in its “arsenal” and why it is interesting in general, read in our review!
Design
The “SUV” from the Middle Kingdom vaguely resembles the “Japanese” Infiniti FX of the first generation and looks, as it should be, very Asian. In front, it has original linded headlights with LED running lights, a radiator grille with chrome trims and a company emblem in the center, round fog optics, a hood with longitudinal ribs and a windshield slightly littered back. On the side, there are impressive doors, large exterior mirrors with electric drive and turn signals, 17-inch alloy wheels and not too expressive body lines. On the sloping roof there are silver-colored metal roof rails, an electric sunroof and an additional brake light in the rear spoiler.
On the “stern” you can see nice red lights, a bumper with non-standard geometry and two exhaust pipes, as well as a wide luggage compartment lid, behind which there is 398 liters. cargo space. The volume is modest, but this is enough to carry two or three rather big suitcases. Inside the trunk is a full-size spare tire on an alloy wheel and there is a 12-volt outlet. A lot of chrome is used in the exterior, but the sense of proportion is definitely present. The car does not seem pseudo-pretentious, it looks good even against the background of much more expensive cars and harmoniously fits into the modern urban landscape.
Design
The foundation for the Besturn X80 is an improved design from the first generation Mazda 6, which indicates good handling. It has an independent double wishbone suspension at the front and a multi-link at the rear. The brakes are disc, and the drive is exclusively front-wheel drive, which is quite typical for a car that is positioned by the Chinese manufacturer as an urban crossover.
Adaptation to Russian conditions
The assembly of the Besturn X80 for the Russian market has been set up at the Avtotor plant in Kaliningrad. The model is produced with a gasoline "four", unpretentious to the quality of fuel, and 190 mm ground clearance - more than enough for normal everyday driving. But such a car is not suitable for off-road, since there is no all-wheel drive and is not expected. To prevent the driver and passengers from freezing in winter, the car has heated front seats. Heated steering wheel and windshield, alas, is missing. Dual-zone climate control is only available in the top-of-the-line Luxury trim, while other versions rely on a simple air conditioner.
Comfort
In terms of build quality and finishing materials, the interior of the Besturn X80 does not reach the interiors of eminent "classmates", but can seriously compete with the interiors of a number of European and South Korean state employees. The gaps here are even, there is no more hard plastic than soft, and the plastic steering wheel is sheathed with solid leatherette. The steering wheel is adjustable in both height and reach, has a comfortable grip and is equipped with buttons for adjusting the volume of the audio system. The original dashboard is made in the form of two analog "wells" with a speedometer and a tachometer. In the middle is the console, "overloaded" with various mechanical controls. Like many other Asian models, the instrument lighting is blue, “for an amateur”. A small trip computer display is housed in a recess at the top of the center console.
Pleasantly surprised by the spaciousness in the back row of seats and the absence of a phenolic smell, which buyers of mid-budget "Chinese" usually complain about. In the front part of the cabin, there is also no tightness, only landing at the seats is slightly disappointing - on a long trip, a aching back is provided. The chairs themselves are not bad, with soft headrests, a wide range of adjustments and fairly high-quality upholstery - fabric or leather, depending on the configuration. On the center console there is a climate control system and a radio tape recorder with an archaic scattering of buttons. Under it there is a place where you can put your smartphone, and there are also AUX / USB inputs, a 12-volt socket and a cigarette lighter. Between the front seats is a box armrest with two cup holders. The power window control buttons are placed on the driver's door, all windows have automatic mode. The mirrors in the visors are equipped with illumination.
In Chinese crash tests, the C-NCAP Besturn X80 earned the highest safety rating - 5 points out of 5. And all thanks to a reinforced body, whose parts are fastened at key points by laser welding, as well as a set of front and side airbags, rear parking sensors, cruise control, tire pressure sensor and a set of electronic assistants, including:
Even the top version does not have a full-fledged multimedia complex with a touch screen - all trim levels have an ordinary CD / MP3 radio with AM / FM radio, an AUX line-in and a USB connector for connecting mobile devices. There are 6 speakers, and the basic version of the Standard, which is not yet available in Russia, has only 4 of them. The sound of the radio tape recorder is like a “four”.
Fav Besturn X80 Specifications
Under the hood is a two-liter 4-cylinder "aspirated" ET3 of FAW's own design, created on the basis of the Mazda LF-DE engine. The engine produces 142 hp. at 6500 rpm. and 184 Nm at 4000 rpm, complies with the Euro-4 environmental standard and calmly relates to 92nd gasoline. Paired with it is a six-speed automatic transmission of the Japanese brand Aisin Seiki F21 of the 2nd generation, or a manual transmission with the same number of steps (manual transmission - in the Standard version). According to the manufacturer, the average fuel consumption is 8.2 liters. per 100 kilometers, but the actual consumption may be higher.
