The Daewoo Rezzo 1.8 i Automatic, produced from 2000 to 2008, was a five-door minivan aimed at providing affordable family transportation. Part of the KLAU generation, the Rezzo represented Daewoo’s attempt to enter the compact MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) segment, primarily targeting markets in Europe and developing nations. This particular variant, equipped with the 1.8-liter engine and a four-speed automatic transmission, occupied a mid-range position within the Rezzo lineup, offering a balance between affordability and convenience. It was positioned above the base models with smaller engines and manual transmissions, but below any potential higher-trim levels with more features.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Daewoo |
| Model | Rezzo |
| Generation | Rezzo (KLAU) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 i (101 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2000 year |
| End of production | 2008 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 12.9 l/100 km (18.2 US mpg, 21.9 UK mpg, 7.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 9.7 l/100 km (24.2 US mpg, 29.1 UK mpg, 10.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 15 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 15 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 160 km/h (99.42 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.2 kg/Hp, 82.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.4 kg/Nm, 118.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 101 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 56.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 146 Nm @ 3300 rpm (107.68 lb.-ft. @ 3300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | F18S2 |
| Engine displacement | 1796 cm3 (109.6 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84.8 mm (3.34 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.75 l (3.96 US qt | 3.3 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1230 kg (2711.69 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1725 kg (3802.97 lbs.) |
| Max load | 495 kg (1091.29 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 455 l (16.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1165 l (41.14 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4350 mm (171.26 in.) |
| Width | 1755 mm (69.09 in.) |
| Height | 1580 mm (62.2 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2600 mm (102.36 in.) |
| Front track | 1476 mm (58.11 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1480 mm (58.27 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 | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Rezzo 1.8 i Automatic was powered by Daewoo’s F18S2 engine, a 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilized a multi-port fuel injection system, providing a reasonable balance between fuel efficiency and power output for its time. The engine featured an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to improved breathing and overall performance. The compression ratio was set at 8.8:1. Paired with this engine was a four-speed automatic transmission, designed for ease of use and convenience, particularly in urban driving conditions. This transmission wasn’t known for its sportiness, prioritizing smooth shifts over rapid acceleration. The F18S2 engine, while not a powerhouse, was considered relatively reliable, though regular maintenance was crucial.
Driving Characteristics
The 101 horsepower and 146 Nm (107.68 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 1.8-liter engine and automatic transmission combination resulted in adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 14.3 seconds, and the top speed was around 99.42 mph. The four-speed automatic transmission, while providing smooth shifts, had relatively wide gear ratios, which could sometimes lead to the engine feeling strained during acceleration or when climbing hills. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the Rezzo, the automatic offered less driver engagement and slightly slower acceleration. However, it provided a more relaxed driving experience, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. The automatic transmission also impacted fuel economy, typically resulting in slightly lower MPG figures compared to the manual variants.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Rezzo 1.8 i Automatic typically came equipped with standard features such as power windows, power steering, and an anti-lock braking system (ABS). Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with a relatively basic dashboard layout. Optional extras included air conditioning, a radio/cassette player (later upgraded to CD players), and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels, if available in specific markets, might have added features like a sunroof, upgraded interior trim, and additional safety equipment. The focus of this trim level was practicality and affordability, making it a popular choice for families seeking a no-frills, reliable minivan.
Chassis & Braking
The Rezzo utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with a relatively simple suspension setup. The front suspension consisted of a spring strut configuration, while the rear employed a coil spring setup. Braking duties were handled by disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. The suspension was tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, providing a reasonably smooth ride on most road surfaces. The steering was rack and pinion, assisted by hydraulic power steering, offering light and easy maneuverability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Daewoo Rezzo, and specifically the 1.8 i Automatic variant, received mixed reviews. Critics generally praised its spacious interior and affordability, but noted its lackluster performance and somewhat dated design. Compared to competitors like the Renault Scenic or Opel Zafira in Europe, the Rezzo offered a lower price point but lacked the refinement and driving dynamics of those models. Fuel economy was considered average for its class. Reliability was generally acceptable, but some owners reported issues with the automatic transmission over the long term. The Rezzo’s primary appeal lay in its value proposition – a relatively spacious and practical minivan at an affordable price.
Legacy
The Daewoo Rezzo, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, served as a reasonably reliable and affordable family transport option during its production run. The F18S2 engine, while not particularly powerful, proved to be relatively durable with proper maintenance. Today, the Rezzo is a relatively uncommon sight on the roads, but those that remain are often appreciated by owners for their practicality and low running costs. The automatic transmission, while not known for its longevity, can be rebuilt or replaced if necessary. The Rezzo represents a snapshot of Daewoo’s efforts to establish itself in the global automotive market before its eventual acquisition by General Motors.
