The Iveco Daily III Panel Van 2.3 Multijet (146 Hp) L3H3 represents a significant iteration in Iveco’s long-standing Daily commercial vehicle line. Produced between April 2014 and April 2016, this variant occupied a crucial middle ground within the Daily III range, offering a balance between payload capacity, fuel efficiency, and operational cost for businesses. The “L3H3” designation indicates a long wheelbase and high roof configuration, maximizing cargo volume. This particular model was primarily aimed at the European market, where it served as a versatile workhorse for delivery services, tradespeople, and specialized commercial applications.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Iveco |
| Model | Daily |
| Generation | Daily III Panel Van |
| Type (Engine) | 2.3 Multijet (146 Hp) L3H3 |
| Start of production | April, 2014 |
| End of production | April, 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Van |
| Seats | 3 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 7.8-8.4 l/100 km (30.2 – 28 US mpg, 36.2 – 33.6 UK mpg, 12.8 – 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 6.6-7.5 l/100 km (35.6 – 31.4 US mpg, 42.8 – 37.7 UK mpg, 15.2 – 13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 7-7.8 l/100 km (33.6 – 30.2 US mpg, 40.4 – 36.2 UK mpg, 14.3 – 12.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 186-206 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.5 kg/Hp, 64.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.4 kg/Nm, 155.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 146 Hp @ 3250-3600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 63.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1500-2750 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | F1AFL411C |
| Engine displacement | 2287 cm3 (139.56 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 16 l (16.91 US qt | 14.08 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2257-2266 kg (4975.83 – 4995.67 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1234-1243 kg (2720.5 – 2740.35 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 13400 l (473.22 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 140 kg (308.65 lbs.) |
| Length | 6069 mm (238.94 in.) |
| Width | 2010 mm (79.13 in.) |
| Height | 2780 mm (109.45 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3520 mm (138.58 in.) |
| Front track | 1740 mm (68.5 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1704 mm (67.09 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1008 mm (39.69 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1541 mm (60.67 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 180 mm (7.09 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.08 m (39.63 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer, Leaf spring |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Leaf spring, Air Suspension – Optional |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 300 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 296 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/65 R16; 235/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
INTRODUCTION
The Iveco Daily III, launched in 2006, represented a significant step forward for the Italian manufacturer, building upon the success of its predecessors. The 2.3 Multijet (146 Hp) L3H3 variant, introduced in 2014, was a key component of this generation. It was designed to meet the evolving demands of the light commercial vehicle (LCV) sector, offering a compelling combination of load capacity, fuel economy, and reliability. The L3H3 configuration, with its extended wheelbase and increased roof height, provided a substantial cargo area, making it ideal for businesses requiring maximum space utilization. This model was positioned as a workhorse, prioritizing practicality and efficiency over outright performance.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Daily III 2.3 Multijet (146 Hp) L3H3 lies the F1AFL411C engine, a 2.3-liter inline four-cylinder diesel. This engine utilizes common-rail direct injection, a technology that significantly improves fuel efficiency and reduces emissions compared to older diesel injection systems. The engine produces 146 horsepower at 3250-3600 rpm and 350 Nm (258.15 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500-2750 rpm. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain and is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler to enhance power output. The standard transmission for this variant was a 6-speed manual gearbox, optimized for both fuel economy and load-carrying capability. The engine is longitudinally mounted, contributing to a more balanced weight distribution.
Driving Characteristics
The driving experience of the Daily III 2.3 Multijet (146 Hp) L3H3 is geared towards functionality rather than sportiness. The 146 hp engine, while adequate for most tasks, doesn’t offer blistering acceleration, especially when fully loaded. However, the readily available 350 Nm of torque provides sufficient pulling power for navigating urban environments and tackling highway inclines. The 6-speed manual transmission allows drivers to select the optimal gear for various driving conditions, maximizing fuel efficiency and minimizing engine strain. Compared to higher-powered Daily variants, this model prioritizes fuel economy and lower operating costs, making it a popular choice for businesses focused on minimizing their total cost of ownership. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provides good traction, particularly when carrying heavy loads.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Iveco Daily III 2.3 Multijet (146 Hp) L3H3 was typically equipped with a functional, no-frills interior. Standard features included a driver’s air bag, power steering, and a basic audio system. The cabin was designed for durability and ease of cleaning, with hard-wearing plastics and vinyl upholstery. Optional extras included air conditioning, electric windows, a passenger airbag, and a more advanced audio system with Bluetooth connectivity. The focus was on providing a comfortable and practical working environment for the driver, rather than luxury features. Trim levels were relatively basic, with the emphasis on providing a robust and reliable platform for commercial use.
Chassis & Braking
The Daily III chassis is built around a robust ladder frame construction, providing a solid foundation for heavy loads. The front suspension utilizes a double wishbone setup with a transverse stabilizer and leaf springs, while the rear suspension employs a rigid axle configuration with leaf springs and an optional air suspension system. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on the front wheels and discs on the rear wheels, coupled with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. The steering is rack and pinion with hydraulic power assistance, providing precise and responsive handling. The tires are typically 225/65 R16 or 235/65 R16, chosen for their durability and load-carrying capacity.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Iveco Daily III 2.3 Multijet (146 Hp) L3H3 was generally well-received by critics and operators alike. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, load capacity, and reliability. Compared to other LCVs in its class, such as the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and the Volkswagen Crafter, the Daily offered a competitive combination of features and price. The 2.3-liter engine provided a good balance between performance and economy, making it a suitable choice for a wide range of commercial applications. While some competitors offered more refined interiors or advanced technology, the Daily’s focus on practicality and durability resonated with many businesses.
Legacy
The Iveco Daily III 2.3 Multijet (146 Hp) L3H3 has proven to be a durable and reliable workhorse, with many examples still in service today. The F1AFL411C engine is known for its longevity, provided it receives regular maintenance. In the used car market, these vans represent good value for money, offering a substantial cargo capacity and relatively low operating costs. While older models may require some maintenance due to their age and mileage, the Daily’s robust construction and readily available parts supply ensure that it remains a viable option for businesses and tradespeople seeking a dependable commercial vehicle.
