2014-2016 Iveco Daily III Panel Van 2.3 Multijet (146 Hp) L1H1

Technical Specifications

The Iveco Daily III Panel Van 2.3 Multijet (146 Hp) L1H1 represents a significant evolution in Iveco’s long-established Daily commercial vehicle line. Produced from April 2014 to April 2016, this variant occupied a crucial mid-range position within the Daily III generation (introduced in 2006), offering a balance between payload capacity, fuel efficiency, and operational cost for businesses. The “L1H1” designation refers to the vehicle’s body length and roof height – a relatively compact configuration suited for urban delivery and service applications. This model was primarily marketed in Europe and other regions where light commercial vehicles of this size are in high demand.

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

The heart of the Daily III 2.3 Multijet is the F1AFL411C engine, a 2.3-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is part of Iveco’s well-regarded Multijet family, known for its common-rail direct injection system. The Multijet technology allows for multiple fuel injections per combustion cycle, resulting in smoother operation, reduced noise, and improved fuel efficiency. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output and torque. The 146 horsepower peak is achieved between 3250 and 3600 rpm, while the substantial 350 Nm (258.15 lb.-ft.) of torque is available from a low 1500 rpm, extending to 2750 rpm. This broad torque curve is particularly beneficial for commercial applications requiring frequent acceleration and load-carrying. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing gas flow and contributing to its performance. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, providing a good balance between fuel economy and drivability.

Driving Characteristics

The 146 hp 2.3 Multijet, paired with the 6-speed manual gearbox, offered a practical and capable driving experience. While not designed for outright speed, the engine’s strong low-end torque made it well-suited for navigating city streets and carrying heavy loads. The gear ratios were optimized for maximizing fuel efficiency and providing sufficient power for everyday driving. Compared to lower-powered versions of the Daily III, this variant offered noticeably improved acceleration and hill-climbing ability. However, it didn’t match the performance of the higher-output engines available in the range. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provided good traction under normal conditions, but could become a limitation in slippery environments without careful driving.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The Daily III Panel Van 2.3 Multijet L1H1 typically came equipped with a functional, work-oriented interior. Standard features included a driver’s airbag, power steering, and a basic audio system. The cabin was designed for durability and ease of cleaning, with hard-wearing plastics and vinyl upholstery. Air conditioning and electric windows were often optional extras. The L1H1 configuration provided a generous 7300 liters (257.8 cu. ft.) of cargo space, making it suitable for a wide range of commercial applications. Trim levels were relatively basic, focusing on functionality rather than luxury.

Chassis & Braking

The Daily III utilized a robust ladder-frame chassis, providing a solid foundation for its load-carrying capabilities. The front suspension consisted of independent double wishbones with a transverse stabilizer and leaf springs, while the rear suspension employed a rigid axle setup with leaf springs and an optional air suspension system for improved ride comfort and load leveling. The braking system featured ventilated discs on the front wheels and discs on the rear, along with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The suspension and braking systems were designed to handle the vehicle’s maximum gross weight of 3300-3500 kg (7275.25 – 7716.18 lbs.).

Market Reception & Comparison

The Iveco Daily III 2.3 Multijet (146 Hp) L1H1 was generally well-received by critics and operators alike. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, reliability, and load-carrying capacity. Compared to other light commercial vehicles in its class, the Daily offered a compelling combination of features and value. The 2.3 Multijet engine provided a good balance between performance and economy, making it a popular choice for businesses seeking a versatile and cost-effective van. Lower-powered Daily variants offered better fuel economy but lacked the performance needed for demanding applications, while higher-output engines came at a premium price.

Legacy

The Iveco Daily III 2.3 Multijet (146 Hp) L1H1 has proven to be a durable and reliable workhorse. Many examples remain in service today, testament to the quality of Iveco’s engineering. The F1AFL411C engine, while not without its potential maintenance needs (like any diesel engine), is generally considered robust when properly maintained. On the used market, these vans represent a good value proposition for businesses seeking a dependable and affordable commercial vehicle. Parts availability remains good, and the relatively simple mechanical design makes them relatively easy to repair.