The hatchback 5 doors Chery Sweet (QQ) 2003 - 2013 year modification 1.1 AMT (53 hp)

Chery Sweet (QQ): A Compact Hatchback for Urban Adventures

The Chery Sweet (QQ) is a compact hatchback that has been a popular choice for urban drivers since its introduction in 2003. With its small footprint, efficient engine, and practical design, this car is perfect for navigating crowded city streets while offering a surprising amount of comfort and functionality. Let’s dive into what makes the Chery Sweet (QQ) a standout in its class.

Overview and Design

The Chery Sweet (QQ) is a 5-door hatchback that falls into the A-class category, making it one of the smallest and most affordable cars on the market. Its compact dimensions—3550 mm in length, 1495 mm in width, and 1485 mm in height—make it easy to maneuver and park in tight spaces. Despite its small size, the car offers a surprisingly spacious interior, with a trunk volume ranging from 170 liters, which can be expanded by folding the rear seats. The design is simple yet functional, with a focus on practicality and affordability.

Performance and Efficiency

Under the hood, the Chery Sweet (QQ) is powered by a 1.1-liter petrol engine that delivers 53 horsepower and 83 Nm of torque. While these numbers may seem modest, they are more than sufficient for city driving. The car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.5 seconds and has a top speed of 140 km/h. Fuel efficiency is one of its strong suits, with a combined fuel consumption of 6.2 liters per 100 km, making it an economical choice for daily commutes. The 5-speed robotic transmission ensures smooth gear shifts, while the front-wheel-drive system provides stability and control.

Comfort and Handling

The Chery Sweet (QQ) features an independent front suspension and a dependent rear suspension, which, combined with its lightweight construction (curb weight of 930 kg), offers a comfortable and nimble ride. The ground clearance of 160 mm ensures that the car can handle uneven roads with ease. The compact wheelbase of 2340 mm contributes to its agility, making it a joy to drive in urban environments. The car’s small turning radius further enhances its maneuverability, allowing drivers to navigate narrow streets and tight corners effortlessly.

Safety and Reliability

While the Chery Sweet (QQ) is designed primarily for city driving, it does come with basic safety features such as front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. However, it’s worth noting that the car has a low safety rating of 1 according to ARCAP, which may be a concern for some buyers. Despite this, the car’s reliability and affordability have made it a popular choice in emerging markets, where cost and practicality often take precedence over advanced safety features.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Affordable price, excellent fuel efficiency, compact and easy to park, spacious interior for its size, reliable performance in urban settings.
• Cons: Low safety rating, modest engine power, limited features compared to more modern vehicles.

Conclusion

The Chery Sweet (QQ) is a practical and economical choice for those seeking a reliable city car. Its compact size, efficient engine, and affordable price make it an excellent option for first-time car buyers or those looking for a secondary vehicle for urban commuting. While it may lack some of the advanced features and safety ratings of more expensive models, its simplicity and reliability have earned it a loyal following over the years. If you’re in the market for a no-frills, budget-friendly hatchback, the Chery Sweet (QQ) is definitely worth considering.