When the Lifan X60 was developed, the Chinese team studied the Toyota RAV4 closely, mirrored many layout and design choices, and began with the suspension system. Four-wheel drive, however, was not part of the plan. During a 2016 restyling, the exterior, lighting elements, and the center console received updates. The cars were assembled in Cherkessk, where welding and body finishing were refined.
Lifan X60
Advantages:
– Extremely affordable.
– A spacious and comfortable interior.
– A suspension that is robust yet not overly stiff.
– Well equipped, even in the base trim.
From new cars, a distinct phenol odor could be noticed. Ergonomics and seat comfort were generally adequate, though the interior materials did not stand out for high wear resistance.
Defects
– Corrosion issues tended to appear after two to three years.
– Occasional sloppy assembly, low-quality components, and a tendency for minor malfunctions.
Engines
There was limited choice in engines. The sole petrol model, the LFB479Q 1.8 (128 hp), is a modified version of the Toyota 1ZZ-FE. It inherited a common drawback of this lineage: a tendency for soot buildup and ring wear. Prospective buyers should not expect an extremely clean engine bay, and preemptive piston-ring replacement and related work are advisable to mitigate wear. A significant amount of soot can accelerate wear and potential damage, though many Toyota components could be compatible.
The timing chain is rated to about 150,000 km. Catalytic converters struggle to last beyond 100,000 km. The phase controller can fail sooner. Hydraulic lifters are not present. The overall engine life is estimated around 250–300 thousand kilometers, with relatively low repair costs.
Transmission
There is no hydraulic system in the drive, and the gear mechanics have a mixed record. At around 100,000 km, bearing wear may require replacement. Earlier instances of closed-body damage occurred, but this problem was addressed after 2014. In 2015, the X60 adopted a VT2 variator from a Dutch supplier, Punch Powertrain, designed by ZF engineers. Like many CVTs, it does not tolerate sudden acceleration or skidding well, but with regular oil changes it can deliver about 200,000 km of service. Mid-life, solenoid replacement is likely, and spare parts availability can be challenging in the early years. The unit is substantial in size and, while not widely stocked locally, parts may be sourced from China.
A noted issue is the mismatch between engine and transmission. The gear ratios feel unconventional, with even gears sometimes appearing redundant, and the variator can feel a bit soft on pedal input. This does not dramatically hinder acceleration but can contribute to faster wear over time.
Operational shortcomings
– The suspension generally holds up, but frequent driving on rough roads can reveal early wear in wheel bearings and shock absorbers, particularly the front set, around 50,000–80,000 km.
– Observations about failures resemble those seen in some VAZ models. ABS faults, generator bearing and relay failures, door lock issues, and wiper drive problems are among the common complaints. Some units require repairs as early as 100–120 thousand kilometers, while others hold up longer.
– Mounting and alignment problems are typically addressed by previous owners, including resealing and reattaching doors and locks. The gaps between body panels, however, often remain uneven.
Euro NCAP: not tested.
The largest availability on the secondary market is the X60 1.8 MCP. Optimal choice: X60 1.8 MCP. For a similar budget, options include the Lada 4×4, UAZ Patriot, Chevrolet Niva, or Geely Emgrand X7.
Tips for selecting a good crossover can be found in expert recommendations. The topic and related discussions are also available through automotive communities for broader context [Source: automotive discussions].