The Daihatsu Xenia III (W100) 1.5, producing 106 horsepower, represents a significant iteration in the Xenia line, a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) primarily aimed at the Indonesian and broader Southeast Asian markets. Introduced in 2021, the W100 generation marked a substantial redesign and a shift towards a more modern aesthetic and feature set. This particular 1.5-liter variant occupied a middle ground within the Xenia III lineup, offering a balance between affordability, fuel efficiency, and practicality for families. It was positioned as a step up from the base models, providing increased performance without the higher price tag of the top-tier trims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Daihatsu |
| Model | Xenia |
| Generation | Xenia III (W100) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 (106 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 | 10.5 kg/Hp, 95.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8 kg/Nm, 124.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 106 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 138 Nm @ 4200 rpm (101.78 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 2NR-VE |
| Engine displacement | 1496 cm3 (91.29 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72.5 mm (2.85 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.6 mm (3.57 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1110 kg (2447.13 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1705 kg (3758.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 595 kg (1311.75 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 | 1700 mm (66.93 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2750 mm (108.27 in.) |
| Front track | 1505 mm (59.25 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 205 mm (8.07 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 | 195/60 R16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Xenia III 1.5 is the 2NR-VE engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Daihatsu’s NR engine family, known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. The 2NR-VE utilizes a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to improved breathing and power delivery. Fuel is delivered via a multi-port fuel injection system, optimizing combustion efficiency. The engine produces 106 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 138 Nm (101.78 lb-ft) of torque at 4200 rpm. This engine is known for its relatively simple design, making it easier to maintain and repair, a crucial factor in its target markets. The engine is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, providing a direct and engaging driving experience. While an automatic transmission was available on other Xenia III trims, the 1.5-liter version was primarily offered with the manual gearbox.
Driving Characteristics
The Xenia III 1.5 with the 5-speed manual transmission offers a reasonably peppy driving experience, particularly considering its focus on practicality and affordability. The 106 hp output is adequate for navigating urban environments and handling highway cruising, although acceleration is not its strong suit. The manual gearbox allows drivers to maximize the available power and maintain control, especially when fully loaded with passengers and cargo. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine may need to be revved slightly higher to achieve brisk acceleration. Compared to the higher-spec Xenia trims with more powerful engines, the 1.5 feels less refined and has a more noticeable engine note under hard acceleration. However, the lighter weight of this variant, compared to some of the more heavily equipped models, helps to mitigate the power difference.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Xenia III 1.5 typically came with a fairly basic, yet functional, equipment list. Standard features generally included air conditioning, power windows, and a basic audio system. Safety features such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) were also standard. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a durable and practical design. Higher trim levels offered features like alloy wheels, a more sophisticated audio system, and additional comfort features. The 1.5 trim was often seen as a good value proposition, offering essential features without the added cost of luxury items. Optional extras, depending on the market, could include a rear parking sensor, a touchscreen infotainment system, and upgraded interior trim.
Chassis & Braking
The Xenia III utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a torsion beam suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride quality, suitable for the often-challenging road conditions found in Southeast Asia. The front brakes are ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes are drums, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. The steering system is a worm-reduction unit with electric power steering, providing reasonable steering feel and assistance. The vehicle’s ride height of 205 mm (8.07 inches) provides ample ground clearance for navigating uneven roads and dealing with occasional flooding.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Daihatsu Xenia III 1.5 was generally well-received in its target markets, particularly for its affordability, practicality, and fuel efficiency. Critics noted that the 1.5-liter engine provided adequate performance for everyday driving, but it wasn’t particularly exciting. Compared to other MPVs in the same class, the Xenia offered a competitive price point and a spacious interior. The manual transmission was praised for its engaging driving experience, but some reviewers noted that it might not appeal to all buyers. In terms of fuel economy, the 1.5-liter engine delivered respectable figures, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Compared to the higher-output Xenia trims, the 1.5 offered a more affordable entry point into the Xenia lineup, appealing to a wider range of customers.
Legacy
The Daihatsu Xenia III 1.5 has established a reputation for reliability and durability, particularly in the used car market. The 2NR-VE engine is known for its longevity and relatively low maintenance costs. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the Xenia III 1.5 remains a popular choice for families and individuals seeking a practical and affordable MPV. Its simple design and readily available parts contribute to its continued appeal in the used car market. As a workhorse vehicle, the Xenia III 1.5 continues to provide reliable transportation for many owners, solidifying its place as a significant model in Daihatsu’s history.
