The Daewoo Korando (KJ) 2.3 i 16V, produced between 1999 and 2001, represented a significant step for the South Korean automaker into the compact SUV market. Positioned as a rugged, affordable utility vehicle, the Korando KJ aimed to provide a practical and capable option for families and individuals seeking all-wheel drive capability. It was a key model in Daewoo’s lineup before the company’s acquisition by General Motors, and it offered a blend of functionality and value, particularly in European and Asian markets. This specific 2.3-liter, 140 horsepower variant with a five-speed manual transmission was a mainstay of the range, offering a balance between performance and fuel economy.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Daewoo |
| Model | Korando |
| Generation | Korando (KJ) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.3 i 16V (140 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1999 |
| End of production | 2001 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg, 34.4 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 17 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 17 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 16.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 165 km/h (102.53 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 5250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 61 Hp/l |
| Torque | 196 Nm @ 4000 rpm (144.56 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 2295 cm3 (140.05 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 90.9 mm (3.58 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.4 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.4:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1760 kg (3880.14 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2515 kg (5544.63 lbs.) |
| Max load | 755 kg (1664.49 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 350 l (12.36 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1200 l (42.38 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4260 mm (167.72 in.) |
| Width | 1841 mm (72.48 in.) |
| Height | 1840 mm (72.44 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2480 mm (97.64 in.) |
| Front track | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1520 mm (59.84 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/75 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Korando KJ 2.3 i 16V was powered by Daewoo’s inline four-cylinder engine, designated as the C23SE. This engine featured a cast iron block and an aluminum cylinder head, incorporating a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder. The multi-port fuel injection system delivered fuel to each cylinder individually, optimizing combustion efficiency. The engine produced 140 horsepower at 5250 rpm and 196 Nm (144.56 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing drivers with direct control over gear selection. The engine’s longitudinal mounting allowed for a more traditional rear-wheel-drive-based all-wheel-drive system.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.3-liter engine, paired with the five-speed manual transmission, provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 16.2 seconds, and the top speed was around 102.53 mph. The engine’s torque curve was relatively flat, offering usable power across a broad range of engine speeds. However, it wasn’t particularly responsive at higher RPMs. The manual transmission offered precise shifts, and the all-wheel-drive system provided enhanced traction in various conditions. Compared to potential higher-output engine options (had they been available in all markets), this variant prioritized fuel efficiency and affordability over outright performance. The gear ratios were tuned for everyday driving, emphasizing practicality over sporty acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Korando KJ 2.3 i 16V typically came with a fairly basic level of standard equipment. Interior features generally included cloth upholstery, a simple dashboard layout, and manual windows and door locks. Air conditioning was often an optional extra, as were power windows and a basic audio system. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), which was becoming increasingly common during this period. The trim level was generally considered a mid-range offering, providing a step up from the most basic models but lacking the luxury features found in higher-end SUVs of the time. Optional extras could include alloy wheels, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems.
Chassis & Braking
The Korando KJ utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable chassis. The suspension consisted of coil springs at all four corners, offering a comfortable ride quality, although it wasn’t particularly refined. The front brakes were discs, while the rear brakes were also discs, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. Hydraulic power steering was standard, making maneuvering easier. The all-wheel-drive system was typically part-time, allowing drivers to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive depending on road conditions. Stabilizer bars were included to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Daewoo Korando KJ 2.3 i 16V was generally well-received as a value-oriented SUV. Critics praised its ruggedness, spacious interior, and all-wheel-drive capability. However, it was often criticized for its relatively basic interior, unrefined engine, and somewhat dated design. Compared to competitors like the Suzuki Vitara and the Honda CR-V, the Korando offered a more affordable price point but lacked the same level of refinement and brand recognition. Fuel economy was reasonable for its class, but not exceptional. Reliability was generally considered average, with some reports of minor mechanical issues.
Legacy
The Daewoo Korando KJ, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, played an important role in establishing Daewoo as a contender in the SUV market. The 2.3-liter engine proved to be reasonably durable, and many examples are still on the road today. However, parts availability can be a challenge due to Daewoo’s subsequent acquisition by General Motors and the discontinuation of the Korando model. In the used car market, the Korando KJ 2.3 i 16V is often sought after by enthusiasts looking for an affordable and capable off-road vehicle. Its simplicity and rugged construction make it a relatively easy vehicle to maintain and repair, appealing to those with mechanical skills. The Korando nameplate would be revived years later under the SsangYong brand, demonstrating the lasting impact of this early SUV.
