The Luxgen 5 2.0i Automatic, produced between November 2011 and 2015, represented a significant offering in the Taiwanese automaker’s early foray into the sedan market. Positioned as a mid-range trim within the broader Luxgen 5 lineup, this variant aimed to balance performance with affordability and comfort. The 5 series, and specifically this 2.0i model, was primarily targeted towards family buyers seeking a spacious and well-equipped vehicle, initially within Taiwan and later with limited exports to other Asian markets. It was built on a dedicated platform for the brand, aiming to establish a foothold against established Japanese and Korean competitors.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Luxgen |
| Model | S5 |
| Generation | 5 |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0i (170 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | November, 2011 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg, 31.7 UK mpg, 11.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.3 kg/Hp, 120.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm, 181.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 170 Hp |
| Power per litre | 85.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 256 Nm @ 2000-4000 rpm (188.82 lb.-ft. @ 2000-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1410 kg (3108.52 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4650 mm (183.07 in.) |
| Width | 1805 mm (71.06 in.) |
| Height | 1490 mm (58.66 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2720 mm (107.09 in.) |
| Front track | 1555 mm (61.22 in.) |
| Rear track | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 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, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system), Electric Power steering |
| Tires size | 215/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Luxgen 5 2.0i Automatic is a 1.998-liter (121.93 cubic inches) inline-four cylinder engine. This naturally aspirated engine, designated with a specific internal code (details often vary by market), produces 170 horsepower and 256 Nm (188.82 lb.-ft.) of torque between 2000 and 4000 rpm. The engine utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system, a relatively conventional setup for its time, prioritizing reliability and cost-effectiveness over cutting-edge direct injection technology. The valvetrain features four valves per cylinder, contributing to improved breathing and overall engine efficiency. Paired with this engine is a five-speed automatic transmission. This transmission, while providing convenient shift operation, wasn’t known for particularly rapid or sporty gear changes. It was selected for its smooth operation and suitability for everyday driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0i Automatic variant of the Luxgen 5 delivered a comfortable, if not particularly exhilarating, driving experience. The 170 hp engine provided adequate power for typical commuting and highway cruising, but acceleration was noticeably slower compared to manual transmission versions or potential higher-output engine options (if offered in certain markets). The five-speed automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy and smooth transitions, rather than aggressive performance. The weight of the vehicle (1410 kg / 3108.52 lbs) further contributed to the less-than-sporty feel. Steering feel was light, prioritizing ease of use over road feedback. Overall, the driving experience was geared towards comfort and practicality.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0i Automatic trim of the Luxgen 5 typically included a reasonable level of standard equipment. This generally encompassed features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system (often with CD player and auxiliary input), and standard safety features like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and airbags. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades available at an additional cost. Higher trim levels within the 5 series offered features like sunroofs, upgraded audio systems with navigation, and more premium interior materials. The 2.0i Automatic served as a solid base model, offering a good balance of features for the price.
Chassis & Braking
The Luxgen 5 2.0i Automatic employed a front-wheel-drive layout. The front suspension utilized an independent McPherson strut design, providing a reasonable level of ride comfort and handling. The rear suspension featured a torsion beam setup, a cost-effective solution commonly found in vehicles of this class. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Electric power steering was standard, offering lighter steering effort at low speeds. The tire size was typically 215/50 R17, mounted on 17-inch alloy wheels.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Luxgen 5 2.0i Automatic received mixed reviews. Critics generally praised the vehicle’s spacious interior, comfortable ride, and relatively generous equipment list for its price point. However, the engine’s performance was often cited as a weakness, with reviewers noting its lack of responsiveness and relatively slow acceleration. Fuel economy, at 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg), was considered average for its class. Compared to competitors from established brands like Toyota, Honda, and Hyundai, the Luxgen 5 2.0i Automatic often lagged in terms of brand recognition and perceived reliability. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t as refined or efficient as some of the more advanced transmissions offered by its rivals.
Legacy
The Luxgen 5 2.0i Automatic, while not a resounding success in terms of global sales, played a role in establishing the Luxgen brand. The powertrain, while not particularly groundbreaking, proved to be reasonably reliable in real-world use, although long-term maintenance records are limited due to the brand’s relatively short lifespan. On the used car market, these vehicles are typically available at very affordable prices. Potential buyers should be aware of the limited availability of spare parts and the potential challenges of finding qualified technicians familiar with the Luxgen brand. Despite these drawbacks, the 2.0i Automatic can represent a budget-friendly option for those seeking a spacious and comfortable sedan.
