The DR EVO5 1.6 (126 Hp) is a compact SUV produced by the Italian manufacturer DR Automobiles between 2016 and 2020. Positioned as a relatively affordable entry in the burgeoning compact SUV segment, the EVO5 was DR’s attempt to capture market share with a practical and value-oriented vehicle. It’s based heavily on the Chery Tiggo 5, reflecting DR’s strategy of rebadging and adapting existing designs for the European market. This particular 1.6-liter, 126 horsepower variant with a five-speed manual transmission served as a core offering within the EVO5 lineup, targeting buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and a lower purchase price over outright performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | DR |
| Model | EVO5 |
| Generation | EVO5 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (126 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.2 l/100 km (25.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 164 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 126 Hp @ 6150 rpm |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 3900 rpm (118.01 lb.-ft. @ 3900 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Kerb Weight | 1315 kg (2899.08 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1980 kg (4365.15 lbs.) |
| Max load | 665 kg (1466.07 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 550 l (19.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1800 l (63.57 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4420 mm (174.02 in.) |
| Width | 1760 mm (69.29 in.) |
| Height | 1670 mm (65.75 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2510 mm (98.82 in.) |
| Front track | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1495 mm (58.86 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| 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 |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The DR EVO5 1.6 utilizes a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. While the engine’s origins lie in Chery’s designs, DR made minor adjustments for European compliance. The engine employs a naturally aspirated configuration, meaning it doesn’t rely on turbocharging or supercharging for increased power. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-point fuel injection system. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to improved breathing and efficiency. The 126 horsepower peak is achieved at 6150 rpm, while the 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) of torque is available at 3900 rpm. This engine is paired with a five-speed manual transmission, which was the standard offering for this trim level. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy and everyday drivability rather than sporty performance.
Driving Characteristics
The EVO5 1.6 Automatic delivers modest performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 11.5 seconds, making it slower than many competitors with more powerful engines. The power delivery is relatively linear, but the engine can feel strained when accelerating hard or climbing hills. The five-speed manual transmission provides adequate control, but the gear ratios aren’t particularly optimized for spirited driving. Compared to potential higher-output variants (had DR offered them), this 1.6-liter engine prioritizes fuel efficiency and affordability over outright speed. The front-wheel-drive configuration contributes to predictable handling, but it lacks the all-weather capability of all-wheel-drive systems found in some competing SUVs.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The DR EVO5 1.6 typically came with a base level of equipment, focusing on essential features. Standard amenities included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system with USB connectivity. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional but basic design. Optional extras, depending on the market and specific package, could include alloy wheels, a rear parking sensor, and a more advanced infotainment system. The trim level was generally considered an entry-level offering, aimed at budget-conscious buyers.
Chassis & Braking
The EVO5 1.6 utilizes a front-wheel-drive chassis with an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a semi-independent suspension at the rear. The front brakes are ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The suspension setup is tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, resulting in a relatively soft ride quality. The steering is rack-and-pinion with hydraulic power assistance, offering reasonable precision. Stabilizer bars are present, but their thickness is modest, reflecting the vehicle’s focus on affordability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The DR EVO5 1.6 received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While praised for its affordability and spacious interior, it was often criticized for its lackluster performance and basic interior materials. Fuel economy was generally considered acceptable, with combined figures around 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg). Compared to other trims in the EVO5 lineup (if offered), the 1.6-liter engine represented the most economical option, but it came at the expense of performance. Competitors like the Dacia Duster and other budget-friendly SUVs offered similar value propositions, often with more established brand reputations.
Legacy
The DR EVO5 1.6, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, served as an important model for DR Automobiles, establishing the brand in the European market. The 1.6-liter engine, while not known for exceptional reliability, has proven to be reasonably durable in normal use. On the used car market, the EVO5 1.6 represents an affordable entry point into SUV ownership. However, potential buyers should be aware of the vehicle’s limitations in terms of performance and refinement. Its long-term value is primarily as a practical and economical transportation option, rather than a collector’s item.
