The DR 5.0 (facelift 2021) 1.5 ThermoHybrid LPG is a compact SUV produced by the Italian manufacturer DR Automobiles. Introduced in 2021 as part of the 5.0 model’s facelift, this variant combines a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine with a dedicated LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) system, marketed as “ThermoHybrid” despite not being a traditional hybrid. Positioned as a value-oriented option within the DR 5.0 lineup, it aimed to provide a lower cost of operation for drivers seeking an alternative to purely gasoline-powered vehicles. The DR 5.0 itself is based on the previous generation Chery Tiggo 5, reflecting DR’s strategy of rebadging and adapting existing designs for the European market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | DR |
| Model | 5.0 |
| Generation | 5.0 (facelift 2021) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 (116/114 Hp) ThermoHybrid LPG |
| Start of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg, 34.4 UK mpg, 12.2 km/l) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) (LPG) | 9.8 l/100 km |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 189 g/km |
| CO2 emissions (LPG) (WLTP) | 158 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / LPG |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6D ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.9 kg/Hp, 84.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 10.1 kg/Nm, 98.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 116 Hp @ 6150 rpm |
| Power per litre | 77.4 Hp/l |
| Power (LPG) | 114 Hp @ 6150 rpm |
| Power per litre (LPG) | 76.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 136 Nm @ 4700 rpm (100.31 lb.-ft. @ 4700 rpm) |
| Torque (LPG) | 132 Nm @ 4800 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Kerb Weight | 1380 kg (3042.38 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1735 kg (3825.02 lbs.) |
| Max load | 355 kg (782.64 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 340 l (12.01 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1100 l (38.85 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 57 l (15.06 US gal | 12.54 UK gal) |
| Fuel tank capacity (LPG) | 55 l |
| Length | 4318 mm (170 in.) |
| Width | 1830 mm (72.05 in.) |
| Height | 1670 mm (65.75 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2630 mm (103.54 in.) |
| Front track | 1550 mm (61.02 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1550 mm (61.02 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/55 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The DR 5.0 1.5 ThermoHybrid LPG utilizes a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, derived from designs originally developed by Chery, features a multi-point fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine’s architecture is relatively simple, prioritizing reliability and cost-effectiveness over outright performance. The “ThermoHybrid” aspect refers to the addition of a dedicated LPG system, allowing the vehicle to run on either gasoline or LPG, or a combination of both. The LPG system typically includes a separate fuel tank, a vaporizer to convert the liquid LPG into a gaseous state, and an electronically controlled switchover mechanism. The engine control unit (ECU) manages the fuel delivery and ignition timing for both fuel types. The 5-speed manual transmission is the sole gearbox option for this variant, chosen for its simplicity and affordability.
Driving Characteristics
With 116 horsepower and 136 Nm (100 lb-ft) of torque, the DR 5.0 1.5 ThermoHybrid LPG offers modest performance. Acceleration is adequate for everyday driving, but it’s not particularly quick. The 5-speed manual transmission provides a reasonable spread of gears, but the engine feels strained at higher speeds. The LPG system slightly reduces power output (to 114 hp) compared to running on gasoline, but it also lowers fuel costs. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency rather than sporty driving, resulting in a comfortable but uninspiring driving experience. Compared to potential higher-output gasoline versions (if offered), this variant prioritizes economy and lower running costs over dynamic performance. The front-wheel-drive configuration contributes to predictable handling, but it lacks the all-weather capability of an all-wheel-drive system.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The DR 5.0 1.5 ThermoHybrid LPG typically came with a base level of equipment, focusing on essential features. Standard amenities generally included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional but utilitarian design. Optional extras could include alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, rear parking sensors, and a rearview camera. The trim level was generally positioned as the entry-level offering within the DR 5.0 range, appealing to budget-conscious buyers.
Chassis & Braking
The DR 5.0 utilizes a front-wheel-drive chassis with an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride quality, but it’s not particularly sophisticated. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The steering is rack and pinion with electric power assistance, offering light and easy steering feel. The tires are typically 215/55 R18, providing a balance of comfort and grip.
Market Reception & Comparison
The DR 5.0 1.5 ThermoHybrid LPG was primarily marketed towards buyers seeking a low-cost SUV with the added benefit of LPG compatibility. Critics generally acknowledged its affordability but noted its lack of refinement and modest performance. Fuel economy was a key selling point, particularly for drivers in regions with high gasoline prices and well-developed LPG infrastructure. Compared to other trims in the DR 5.0 lineup, this variant offered the lowest purchase price but also the least amount of power and features. Its main competitors were other budget-oriented compact SUVs, often from Chinese manufacturers, offering similar value propositions.
Legacy
The DR 5.0 1.5 ThermoHybrid LPG represents a niche offering within the compact SUV segment. While not known for exceptional performance or luxury, it provided a practical and affordable transportation solution for buyers prioritizing economy and LPG compatibility. The long-term reliability of the powertrain is generally considered average, with the LPG system requiring periodic maintenance to ensure optimal performance. In the used car market, these vehicles are typically priced competitively, appealing to buyers seeking a budget-friendly SUV with the potential for lower running costs. The DR 5.0, and this variant specifically, demonstrates DR Automobile’s strategy of offering affordable vehicles based on existing platforms, catering to a specific segment of the European market.
