The Daihatsu Xenia II (F650), specifically the 1.3-liter (97 hp) variant with an automatic transmission, was a popular multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) produced from 2015 to 2019. This facelifted version of the second-generation Xenia, built upon the F650 platform, primarily served the Indonesian and broader Southeast Asian markets. Positioned as an affordable and practical family vehicle, the 1.3 Automatic trim represented an entry-level option within the Xenia II range, offering a balance between fuel efficiency and convenience. It catered to buyers seeking a spacious seven-seater without the higher cost and performance of the larger engine options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Daihatsu |
| Model | Xenia |
| Generation | Xenia II (F650, facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 (97 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | August, 2015 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.5 kg/Hp, 87 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.2 kg/Nm, 108.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 97 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 73 Hp/l |
| Torque | 121 Nm @ 4200 rpm, 89.25 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 1NR-VE |
| Engine displacement | 1329 cm3, 81.1 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72.5 mm, 2.85 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm, 3.17 in. |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, Dual VVT-i |
| Kerb Weight | 1115-1130 kg, 2458.15 – 2491.22 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 1680 kg, 3703.77 lbs. |
| Max load | 550-565 kg, 1212.54 – 1245.61 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 | 1695 mm, 66.73 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) | 200 mm, 7.87 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 9.4 m, 30.84 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 | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 185/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Xenia II 1.3 Automatic is the 1NR-VE engine, a 1.3-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Daihatsu’s NR engine family, known for its relatively simple design and focus on fuel efficiency. The 1NR-VE utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system and a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent) technology. This technology optimizes valve timing for improved performance and fuel economy across a wider range of engine speeds. The engine produces 97 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 121 Nm (89.25 lb-ft) of torque at 4200 rpm. The engine is longitudinally mounted, driving the rear wheels. The transmission is a four-speed automatic, chosen for its ease of use and suitability for urban driving conditions. While not offering the sporty responsiveness of a manual transmission, it provided a comfortable and convenient driving experience for the target demographic.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3-liter engine and four-speed automatic combination in the Xenia II delivered adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration was modest, particularly when fully loaded with passengers and cargo. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy rather than outright speed. Compared to the available 1.5-liter engine option, the 1.3 Automatic felt noticeably slower, especially during overtaking maneuvers. However, the lower engine displacement contributed to better fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice for daily commuting and family trips where outright performance wasn’t a priority. The rear-wheel drive configuration, while uncommon in modern MPVs, provided a unique driving feel and contributed to the vehicle’s relatively simple mechanical layout.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Xenia II 1.3 Automatic typically came equipped with basic but functional features. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, power steering, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a durable and practical design. Higher trim levels, available as options, could add features such as power windows, central locking, and upgraded audio systems. The dashboard layout was straightforward and user-friendly, prioritizing functionality over aesthetics. Safety features were relatively basic, typically including seatbelts for all passengers and a driver-side airbag.
Chassis & Braking
The Xenia II utilized a body-on-frame construction, a relatively traditional approach that contributed to its affordability and durability. The front suspension consisted of an independent McPherson strut setup with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension employed a rigid axle configuration. This setup prioritized ride comfort and load-carrying capacity over sporty handling. The braking system featured disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. The relatively simple braking system was adequate for the vehicle’s weight and performance, but lacked the stopping power of more advanced braking systems found in higher-end vehicles.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Daihatsu Xenia II 1.3 Automatic was well-received in its target market as an affordable and practical family vehicle. Critics praised its spacious interior, fuel efficiency, and ease of use. However, the engine’s lack of power and the transmission’s limited number of gears were often cited as drawbacks. Compared to the 1.5-liter Xenia, the 1.3 Automatic offered better fuel economy but significantly less performance. It also competed with other MPVs in the Southeast Asian market, such as the Toyota Avanza (which is mechanically very similar), offering a similar value proposition.
Legacy
The Daihatsu Xenia II 1.3 Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, particularly when properly maintained. The 1NR-VE engine is known for its durability, and the four-speed automatic transmission is generally dependable. In the used car market, these Xenia models remain popular due to their affordability and practicality. While not a performance icon, the Xenia II 1.3 Automatic served a valuable role in providing affordable transportation for families in Southeast Asia, and continues to be a viable option for budget-conscious buyers today. Its simple mechanical design makes it relatively easy and inexpensive to repair, contributing to its enduring appeal.
