Daihatsu reveals all-new Xenia MPV

KUALA LUMPUR: It was only recently that Toyota launched the 3rd-gen Avanza/Veloz at the 2021 GIIAS and now Daihatsu has introduced its version of the seven-seater MPV, the Xenia.

Both Toyota and Daihatsu are sister brands in Indonesia and work under the arrangement wherein they share models with a different name and slightly tweaked design. However, of the two, the Daihatsu offering is more significant to Malaysia as the model is rumoured to be the next-gen Perodua Alza!

Let’s check out the Daihatsu Xenia’s key highlights, starting with its exterior design language.

At the front, the Xenia MPV gets a massive upper grille with a mesh insert and houses the Daihatsu logo at the centre. In order to add a sporty touch, the automaker has added a red stripe across the upper grille and headlights. Other exterior bits include -

• Unique fog lamps housing upfront
• Two-tone wheel design
• Gloss black plastic connecting tail lights

The cabin layout seems identical to that of the Avanza and the material used seem economically-focused, due to the monotonous dark-toned theme. The MPVs tech front includes - a 7- or 9-inch touchscreen infotainment display with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support, analogue Optitron instrument cluster, and digital air-con controls.

The MPV also packs - manual seat height adjuster, manual lever-operated hand brake, roof-mounted blowers, and comfortable three-row flexible seats.

What powers the new Daihatsu Xenia MPV?

Daihatsu's latest MPV is offered in two engine options - 98 hp/ 121 Nm naturally-aspirated 1.3-litre four-cylinder mill and 106 hp/ 136 Nm pumping 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated unit.

Depending on the variant, the power is sent to wheels either via a manual gearbox or the automaker's own D-CVT gearbox.

Not to forget, the Daihatsu Xenia is built on the new DNGA platform, thus making the rear-wheel drive to front-wheel drive switch possible.

As for the MPVs safety kit, the range-topping variant benefits from the advanced driver assistance suite that includes - Lane Departure Prevention, Pre Collision System, Leading Vehicle Departure Warning and Pedal Mis-operation Control.

Variant & Price detail

Daihatsu is offering the Xenia MPV with five variant options and their price would range from IDR 190.9 million (approx. RM 56k) to IDR 242.7 million (approx. RM 71k).