The Daihatsu Xenia II (F650) 1.0, produced from 2011 to 2015, represents an entry-level variant within the second generation of the Xenia multi-purpose vehicle (MPV). Designed primarily for the Indonesian market and other Southeast Asian countries, the Xenia II aimed to provide affordable and practical transportation for families. This 1.0-liter model served as the base trim, offering a more economical option compared to higher-spec versions with larger engines. It was positioned as a budget-friendly choice within a segment dominated by similar MPVs focused on maximizing interior space and passenger capacity.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Daihatsu |
| Model | Xenia |
| Generation | Xenia II (F650) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 (63 Hp) |
| Start of production | November, 2011 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16 kg/Hp, 62.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 11.2 kg/Nm, 89.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 63 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 63.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 90 Nm @ 3600 rpm (66.38 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EJ-VE |
| Engine displacement | 989 cm3 (60.35 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72 mm (2.83 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT-i |
| Kerb Weight | 1005-1030 kg (2215.65 – 2270.76 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1540 kg (3395.12 lbs.) |
| Max load | 510-535 kg (1124.36 – 1179.47 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Length | 4140 mm (162.99 in.) |
| Width | 1660 mm (65.35 in.) |
| Height | 1685 mm (66.34 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2655 mm (104.53 in.) |
| Front track | 1425 mm (56.1 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 170-190 mm (6.69 – 7.48 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 9.2 m (30.18 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 165/80 R13 |
| Wheel rims size | 4.5J x 13 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Xenia II 1.0 is the Daihatsu EJ-VE engine, a 989cc inline-three cylinder petrol engine. This engine utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system and a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Variable Valve Timing-intelligence (VVT-i). The VVT-i system optimizes valve timing based on engine speed and load, improving both fuel efficiency and power delivery. The longitudinal engine placement was a common characteristic of rear-wheel-drive MPVs in this segment. The EJ-VE, while relatively simple in design, was known for its durability and ease of maintenance. The 5-speed manual transmission was the sole gearbox option for this variant, prioritizing affordability over the convenience of an automatic.
Driving Characteristics
With only 63 horsepower and 90 Nm (66 lb-ft) of torque, the Xenia II 1.0 was not designed for spirited performance. Acceleration was modest, and overtaking required careful planning. The rear-wheel-drive configuration, while unusual for a modern MPV, provided a slightly different driving feel compared to front-wheel-drive competitors. The 5-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band, but the limited power output meant that frequent downshifts were necessary, especially when carrying a full load of passengers. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy rather than outright speed. Compared to the 1.3-liter versions of the Xenia, the 1.0 felt noticeably slower, particularly when climbing hills or fully loaded.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.0-liter Xenia II was the most basic trim level. Standard features typically included manual windows, manual door locks, and a simple audio system. The interior upholstery was usually a durable, easy-to-clean fabric. Air conditioning was often an optional extra, and power steering was a welcome addition for ease of maneuverability. Safety features were minimal, generally limited to seatbelts. The dashboard layout was functional but lacked the aesthetic refinements found in higher-spec models. Optional extras could include a basic CD player and upgraded interior trim.
Chassis & Braking
The Xenia II utilized a body-on-frame construction, a relatively traditional approach for MPVs in this price range. The front suspension employed an independent McPherson strut setup, while the rear suspension featured a rigid axle with leaf springs. This configuration prioritized load-carrying capacity and durability over sophisticated handling. The braking system consisted of disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. The rear drum brakes were a cost-saving measure typical of entry-level models. Steering was rack and pinion, assisted by electric power steering, providing reasonable maneuverability at low speeds.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Daihatsu Xenia II 1.0 was well-received in its target market as an affordable and practical family vehicle. Critics acknowledged its spacious interior and relatively low running costs. However, the limited power output and basic features were often noted. Compared to the 1.3-liter Xenia, the 1.0 offered significantly better fuel economy but at the expense of performance. The 1.3-liter was often preferred by buyers who frequently carried passengers or drove on hilly terrain. The Xenia competed with other affordable MPVs such as the Toyota Avanza, which offered a similar combination of space, practicality, and affordability.
Legacy
The Daihatsu Xenia II 1.0, while not a performance icon, proved to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The EJ-VE engine, despite its small displacement, was known for its longevity and relatively low maintenance costs. In the used car market, these Xenia models remain popular due to their affordability and practicality. However, potential buyers should be aware of the limited power output and the basic level of equipment. The Xenia II 1.0 represents a significant example of Daihatsu’s focus on providing accessible transportation solutions for emerging markets, and its simple, robust design has contributed to its continued presence on the roads today.
