Technical Specifications
| Brand | Daihatsu |
| Model | Xenia |
| Generation | Xenia III (W100) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 (98 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11 kg/Hp, 90.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.9 kg/Nm, 113 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 98 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 73.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 122 Nm @ 4200 rpm (89.98 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| 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 |
| Kerb Weight | 1080-1090 kg (2380.99 – 2403.04 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1705 kg (3758.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 615-625 kg (1355.84 – 1377.89 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 43 l (11.36 US gal | 9.46 UK gal) |
| Length | 4395 mm (173.03 in.) |
| Width | 1730 mm (68.11 in.) |
| Height | 1690 mm (66.54 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2750 mm (108.27 in.) |
| Front track | 1515 mm (59.65 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 195 mm (7.68 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 |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Worm-reduction unit |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15 |
The Daihatsu Xenia III (W100) 1.3, producing 98 horsepower, represents an entry-level variant within the third generation of the Xenia, launched in 2021. The Xenia, a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV), is primarily marketed in Indonesia and other Southeast Asian countries as an affordable and practical family transport solution. The W100 generation marked a significant shift for the Xenia, moving to a front-wheel-drive layout and sharing a platform with the Toyota Avanza, reflecting a joint development effort between the two manufacturers. This 1.3-liter engine and five-speed manual transmission combination was positioned as the most accessible trim level, prioritizing fuel efficiency and affordability over outright performance.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Xenia III 1.3 is the 1NR-VE engine, a 1.3-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain and multi-point fuel injection. The 1NR-VE is known for its relatively simple design, contributing to its reliability and ease of maintenance. It’s a naturally aspirated engine, meaning it doesn’t employ turbocharging or supercharging. The engine’s 98 horsepower output is achieved at 6000 rpm, while peak torque of 122 Nm (89.98 lb-ft) arrives at 4200 rpm. Paired with this engine is a five-speed manual transmission, chosen for its cost-effectiveness and efficiency. The transmission is a conventional setup, designed to provide smooth shifts and reliable operation.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3-liter engine, coupled with the manual transmission, delivers adequate performance for typical urban and highway driving conditions in its target market. However, it’s not designed for spirited acceleration. With a kerb weight of around 1080-1090 kg, the Xenia 1.3 has a weight-to-power ratio of approximately 11 kg/hp. This translates to a noticeable lack of urgency when accelerating, especially when fully loaded with passengers and cargo. The five-speed manual transmission allows drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band, but frequent downshifts are often necessary when encountering hills or overtaking. Compared to higher-spec Xenia models equipped with larger engines, the 1.3 feels significantly less powerful. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy rather than performance, prioritizing efficiency over rapid acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Xenia III 1.3 typically represents the base trim level. Standard features generally include basic air conditioning, power windows, and a simple audio system. Interior upholstery is usually cloth, and the dashboard design is functional but not luxurious. Safety features are typically limited to ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and dual front airbags. Optional extras, depending on the market and dealer, could include a more advanced audio system, alloy wheels, and rear parking sensors. The focus of this trim level is on providing essential transportation at the lowest possible price point.
Chassis & Braking
The Xenia III utilizes a McPherson strut independent suspension system at the front, providing a reasonable level of ride comfort. The rear suspension employs a torsion beam setup, which is a cost-effective solution for MPVs. The front brakes are ventilated discs, offering adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes are drums, a common feature in entry-level vehicles to reduce costs. The steering system is a worm-reduction unit with electric power steering, providing assisted steering feel. The 185/65 R15 tires are chosen for a balance of comfort and fuel efficiency.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Xenia III 1.3 was generally well-received in its target markets as an affordable and practical family vehicle. Critics often praised its spacious interior and fuel efficiency. However, the 1.3-liter engine was often criticized for its lack of power, particularly when compared to the larger 1.5-liter engine options available in higher trim levels. The 1.5-liter variants offered a noticeable improvement in performance, making them more suitable for drivers who frequently carry passengers or travel on highways. In terms of reliability, the 1NR-VE engine has a generally good reputation, but regular maintenance is crucial to ensure long-term durability.
Legacy
The Daihatsu Xenia III 1.3, while not a performance standout, has established itself as a reliable and affordable MPV in Southeast Asia. On the used car market, these models are often sought after by budget-conscious buyers looking for a practical family vehicle. The 1NR-VE engine is known for its durability and relatively low maintenance costs, making it a popular choice among owners. The W100 generation Xenia, and specifically the 1.3 variant, represents a significant step forward for the model, offering improved fuel efficiency and a more modern driving experience compared to its predecessors. Its continued presence on the roads is a testament to its practicality and affordability.
