The Luxgen S5 2.0i (192 Hp) Automatic, introduced with a facelift in 2015, represents a mid-cycle update to Luxgen’s entry-level sedan. Produced from 2015 to 2019, this variant aimed to provide a balance of performance and comfort within the S5 lineup. The S5 itself was Luxgen’s attempt to establish a foothold in the competitive mid-size sedan segment, primarily targeting the Taiwanese market and select export regions. This 2.0i Automatic trim served as a step up from the base models, offering a turbocharged engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, positioning it as a more refined option for buyers seeking a smoother driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Luxgen |
| Model | S5 |
| Generation | S5 (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0i (192 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 192 Hp |
| Power per litre | 96.1 Hp/l |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 |
| Engine displacement (cu. in.) | 121.93 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 470 l |
| Trunk (boot) space (cu. ft.) | 16.6 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l |
| Fuel tank capacity (US gal) | 14.53 US gal |
| Fuel tank capacity (UK gal) | 12.1 UK gal |
| Length | 4690 mm |
| Length (in.) | 184.65 in. |
| Width | 1805 mm |
| Width (in.) | 71.06 in. |
| Height | 1490 mm |
| Height (in.) | 58.66 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2720 mm |
| Wheelbase (in.) | 107.09 in. |
| Front track | 1555 mm |
| Front track (in.) | 61.22 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1565 mm |
| Rear (Back) track (in.) | 61.61 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.8 m |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) (ft.) | 35.43 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 | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 215/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S5 2.0i Automatic is a 1.998-liter inline-four cylinder engine, designated as a turbocharged unit. This engine utilizes a single-scroll turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output to 192 horsepower. The engine employs multi-point fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. This configuration allows for efficient combustion and improved volumetric efficiency. The six-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Aisin, was chosen for its smooth shifting characteristics and reliability. While not a dual-clutch transmission, it offered a comfortable driving experience, particularly in urban environments. The transmission features adaptive learning, adjusting shift points based on driving style.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0i Automatic variant of the Luxgen S5 delivers a respectable driving experience, though it doesn’t prioritize outright performance. The turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power during acceleration, but the automatic transmission can sometimes feel hesitant when downshifting. The six-speed automatic is geared for comfort and fuel efficiency rather than aggressive driving. Compared to a hypothetical manual transmission version, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness. The S5’s suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road reasonably well. However, this does result in some body roll during cornering. Steering feel is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in city traffic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2015 facelift brought updated interior features to the S5 2.0i Automatic. Standard equipment typically included power windows, power door locks, air conditioning, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS. Higher trim levels, often available as optional packages, added features such as leather upholstery, a sunroof, a more advanced infotainment system with navigation, and rear parking sensors. Interior materials were generally of acceptable quality for the price point, though they didn’t match the refinement of some European or Japanese competitors. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The Luxgen S5 utilizes a front-wheel-drive platform with a MacPherson strut suspension in the front and a multi-link suspension in the rear. This setup provides a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, offering adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The S5’s chassis is relatively lightweight, contributing to its fuel efficiency. The 17-inch alloy wheels, paired with 215/50 R17 tires, provide a reasonable level of grip.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Luxgen S5 2.0i Automatic received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While the turbocharged engine and automatic transmission were praised for their smoothness, the car was often criticized for its bland styling and lack of brand recognition. Compared to competitors like the Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic, the S5 offered a less established reputation and a less refined driving experience. However, it often undercut those rivals in price. Fuel economy was average for the class, with combined figures typically around 28-32 mpg. Reliability reports were limited due to the relatively low sales volume of the S5.
Legacy
The Luxgen S5, including the 2.0i Automatic variant, ultimately failed to gain significant market share outside of Taiwan. Luxgen as a brand struggled to compete with established automakers, and production ceased in 2019. On the used car market, the S5 2.0i Automatic represents an affordable option for buyers seeking a spacious sedan with a turbocharged engine. However, potential buyers should be aware of the limited availability of spare parts and the lack of a strong dealer network. The Aisin six-speed automatic transmission is generally considered reliable, but the long-term durability of the turbocharged engine remains a concern for some owners. The S5’s legacy is that of a valiant effort by a new automaker to break into a highly competitive market, but ultimately a commercially unsuccessful one.
