Review: 2021 Daihatsu Xenia III 1.5 (106 Hp) CVT

A comprehensive look at the 2021 Daihatsu Xenia III, exploring its features, performance, and suitability for various lifestyles.

Olivia Harper | Feb 2, 2025 | 8 minutes
Review: 2021 Daihatsu Xenia III 1.5 (106 Hp) CVT

The 2021 Daihatsu Xenia III 1.5 (106 Hp) CVT is a versatile multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) that caters to families and individuals seeking a practical and efficient car. With its spacious interior, reliable performance, and modern features, the Xenia III is designed to meet the needs of everyday driving. Whether you're navigating city streets or embarking on a long road trip, this vehicle offers a comfortable and enjoyable ride.

Understanding the Basics

Before diving into the specifics, let's clarify some key terms. The Xenia III is an MPV, which stands for Multi-Purpose Vehicle. This type of car is known for its spacious interior and flexibility, making it ideal for families or those who need extra cargo space. The '1.5 (106 Hp) CVT' refers to the engine and transmission. The '1.5' indicates the engine's displacement in liters, '106 Hp' is the horsepower, and 'CVT' stands for Continuously Variable Transmission, a type of automatic transmission that provides smooth acceleration without the traditional gear shifts.

Performance and Engine Details

The Daihatsu Xenia III is powered by a 1.5-liter inline-four engine, producing 106 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 138 Nm of torque at 4200 rpm. This naturally aspirated engine, with a multi-port manifold injection system, ensures a balanced performance suitable for daily commutes and family outings. The front-wheel-drive system, coupled with a CVT, offers a smooth driving experience, especially in urban environments where stop-and-go traffic is common.

With a kerb weight of 1115 kg, the Xenia III maintains a good weight-to-power ratio, ensuring efficient fuel consumption and manageable handling. The vehicle's dimensions, including a length of 4395 mm and a wheelbase of 2750 mm, provide ample interior space while maintaining a compact footprint for easy maneuverability.

Suitability for Different Lifestyles

The Daihatsu Xenia III is particularly well-suited for family use, thanks to its seven-seat configuration and generous cargo space. The MPV's design allows for flexible seating arrangements, making it easy to accommodate both passengers and luggage. For city driving, the Xenia's compact size and electric power steering make parking and navigating tight spaces a breeze.

For long-distance travel, the Xenia offers a comfortable ride with its independent front suspension and torsion rear suspension, absorbing road imperfections effectively. However, its naturally aspirated engine might not provide the punch needed for high-speed overtaking on highways, which is something to consider for frequent long-distance travelers.

While the Xenia is not specifically designed for adventure lifestyles, its 205 mm ground clearance allows it to handle rougher roads and light off-road conditions, making it a versatile choice for those occasional weekend getaways.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Strengths: Spacious interior, flexible seating, efficient fuel consumption, smooth CVT, and good ground clearance.
  • Weaknesses: Limited engine power for high-speed driving, basic interior features compared to competitors, and lack of advanced driver-assistance systems.

Conclusion

In summary, the 2021 Daihatsu Xenia III 1.5 (106 Hp) CVT is a practical choice for families and individuals who prioritize space, efficiency, and comfort in their vehicle. While it may not be the most powerful option on the market, its strengths lie in its versatility and user-friendly design. When considering a new car, think about what features matter most to you. Do you need extra cargo space or a vehicle that's easy to park in urban areas?

AttributeDetails
GenerationXenia III
Modification (Engine)1.5 (106 Hp) CVT
Powertrain ArchitectureInternal Combustion engine
Body TypeMPV
Seats7
Doors5
Fuel TypePetrol (Gasoline)
Kerb Weight1115 kg
Max Load590 kg
Fuel Tank Capacity43 l
Length4395 mm
Width1730 mm
Height1700 mm
Wheelbase2750 mm
Drive Wheel SystemFront wheel drive
Number of Gears (Transmission Type)CVT
Front SuspensionIndependent type McPherson
Rear SuspensionTorsion
Front BrakesVentilated discs
Rear BrakesDrum
Assisting SystemsABS
Power SteeringElectric Steering
Tire Size195/60 R16
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