The Luxgen U5 1.6i, producing 120 horsepower with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), was a compact SUV produced by the Taiwanese automaker Luxgen from September 2017 onwards. Positioned as an entry-level offering within the U5 range, it aimed to provide an affordable and fuel-efficient option for families and urban commuters. The U5 itself was Luxgen’s attempt to establish a foothold in the increasingly competitive compact SUV segment, leveraging a blend of contemporary styling and technology. It was primarily marketed within Taiwan and select export markets, representing Luxgen’s ambition to move beyond its initial focus on luxury sedans.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Luxgen |
| Model | U5 |
| Generation | U5 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6i (120 Hp) CVT |
| Start of production | September, 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.7 kg/Hp, 93.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.6 kg/Nm, 116.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 77.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 150 Nm @ 4200 rpm (110.63 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1556 cm3 (94.95 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, Dual VVT-i |
| Kerb Weight | 1283-1328 kg (2828.53 – 2927.74 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 422 l (14.9 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 47 l (12.42 US gal | 10.34 UK gal) |
| Length | 4395 mm (173.03 in.) |
| Width | 1783 mm (70.2 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2048 mm (80.63 in.) |
| Height | 1607 mm (63.27 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2620 mm (103.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1505 mm (59.25 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1522 mm (59.92 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 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 | 7 gears, automatic transmission CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 215/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Luxgen U5 1.6i was powered by a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, while not a particularly advanced design, featured dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and dual Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-i) technology. The VVT-i system optimized valve timing based on engine speed and load, improving both fuel efficiency and power delivery. The engine produced 120 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 150 Nm (110.63 lb-ft) of torque at 4200 rpm. The engine utilized multi-point fuel injection. The engine was transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. The engine was paired with a seven-speed Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). CVTs are known for providing smooth, stepless acceleration and contributing to improved fuel economy compared to traditional automatic transmissions. However, they sometimes lack the direct feel of a conventional gearbox.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.8i/CVT combination in the U5 prioritized fuel efficiency and ease of driving over outright performance. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving situations, but the CVT’s nature meant that the engine often remained at a constant rpm during acceleration, which could feel somewhat disconnected. Compared to potential higher-output versions of the U5 (if offered), the 1.6i felt noticeably less responsive. The CVT’s gear ratios were tuned for economy, meaning that quick overtaking maneuvers required careful planning. The suspension setup, while comfortable for absorbing bumps, didn’t offer particularly sporty handling characteristics. The U5 1.6i CVT was best suited for urban commuting and relaxed highway cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The U5 1.6i typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and airbags. Higher trim levels, available as options, added features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, a rearview camera, and parking sensors. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with the option of leather seats on higher trims. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over luxury. Optional extras often included a panoramic sunroof and upgraded sound systems.
Chassis & Braking
The U5 1.6i utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a torsion beam suspension in the rear. The front brakes were ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The suspension was tuned for comfort, prioritizing ride quality over sporty handling. The relatively lightweight nature of the 1.6i variant, compared to potentially heavier trims, helped to mitigate some of the limitations of the torsion beam rear suspension. The tires were typically 215/55 R17, offering a balance of grip and fuel efficiency.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Luxgen U5 1.6i CVT received mixed reviews. Critics generally praised its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride, but noted its lack of performance and somewhat unrefined driving experience. Compared to other compact SUVs in its class, the U5 1.6i was often seen as a more affordable option, but it lacked the brand recognition and established reputation of competitors from established automakers. Fuel economy figures of around 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg) were competitive for its class. Reliability reports were limited due to the relatively low sales volume of the U5, but early indications suggested that the powertrain was generally reliable.
Legacy
The Luxgen U5 1.6i CVT represents a relatively niche offering in the global automotive market. While it didn’t achieve widespread success, it served as an important step for Luxgen in expanding its product lineup and attempting to gain a foothold in the competitive compact SUV segment. On the used car market, the U5 1.6i is often available at a relatively low price point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The 1.6-liter engine and CVT transmission, while not known for exceptional performance, have proven to be reasonably reliable in service. However, potential buyers should be aware of the limited availability of spare parts and the lack of a widespread dealer network for Luxgen vehicles.
