Chery E5: compact Chinese saloon, engine and what to know
The „Chery E5“ is a simple compact saloon from China that debuted around 2011. In this article, we review its tech and what to check before buying a used car.
E5 in brief
The E5 is a compact four-door saloon aimed at the budget-conscious market. It's a no-frills, practical car without luxury or complex systems.
In Lithuania, this model is very rare and practically unheard of, so you won't find many listings. Usually, these are older examples, imported from other countries.
Versions and engine
The E5 typically comes with a 1.5-litre petrol engine, with some versions offering a larger capacity. The gearbox is either manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Drive is to the front wheels.
Check the specific engine details on the car's documents, as they vary by year and market.
Who it's for
The E5 is for those who need an affordable and simple car for daily city driving. It's not designed for spirited driving or long journeys.
Basic tech means lower maintenance costs, but also less comfort and safety kit than modern rivals.
What to check when buying a used E5
Check the service history, documents, and ensure the car was properly imported. Test the gearbox — it should operate smoothly.
Inspect the body for rust and check the electronics. Since the model is rare, find out in advance where you can order parts.
Trim levels
Trim names vary by market, so we'll list them generally.
Įprasta komplektacija
Entire production runBasic daily driver version.
- Often — steel or alloy wheels
- Simpler interior trim
- Often — air conditioning
E5 gearbox comparison
| Mechaninė dėžė | Bepakopė dėžė (CVT) | |
|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | Simple and economical to run | More comfortable for city driving |
| Engine | Around 1.5-litre petrol | Around 1.5-litre petrol |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | Affordable | Affordable |
Manual is cheap to run. Automatic is more comfortable in the city.
Pros
- Acceptable price
- Basic technology
- Low running costs
- Practical saloon body
Cons
- Very rare in Lithuania
- Limited choice of parts
- Poor resale value
Frequently asked questions
Is the Chery E5 available in Lithuania?
No, it's very rare here, and you'll mostly find imported cars.
What engine does the E5 have?
Usually a 1.5-litre petrol, but the exact variant depends on the year and version.
Is the E5 reliable?
The technology is basic, but there's little long-term reliability data, so the condition of the specific car is key.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically





























