The Daewoo X20XEV is a 1,998 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2002. It features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) configuration with 16 valves and multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), delivering 99 kW (135 PS) at 5,600 rpm and 180 Nm of torque at 4,400 rpm. Designed for mid-size sedans, it offered strong mid-range performance with smooth refinement.
Fitted primarily to the Daewoo Leganza (D100), the X20XEV was engineered for executive comfort and highway cruising capability. It meets Euro 2 emissions standards through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control. The engine's aluminium cylinder head and cast-iron block provide durability under sustained load, while hydraulic valve lifters ensure quiet operation.
One documented concern involves premature wear of the timing belt tensioner, which can lead to belt slippage or breakage if not addressed during scheduled maintenance. This issue, referenced in Daewoo Service Information Bulletin D100-07-018, is typically associated with extended service intervals or use of non-OEM replacement parts. In 2000, Daewoo introduced a revised tensioner design with improved spring loading and damping to enhance reliability.
Daewoo
All X20XEV production (1998–2002) meets Euro 2 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Daewoo X20XEV is a 1,998 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans (1998–2002). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver strong mid-range performance and cruising refinement. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it balances power delivery with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 99 kW (135 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 180 Nm @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (replaced every 90,000 km) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (API SL/CF) | |
| Dry weight | 135 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear throttle response ideal for highway cruising but requires strict adherence to 90,000 km timing belt service intervals to prevent valve train damage. SAE 10W-40 oil meeting API SL/CF standards is essential for maintaining lifter function and reducing camshaft wear. Extended idling or short-trip driving can lead to carbon buildup on intake valves, affecting idle quality. Use of fuel with detergent additives is recommended to maintain injector cleanliness. Post-2000 models benefit from a revised tensioner design; pre-2000 units should be inspected for wear per Daewoo SIB D100-07-018. Catalytic converter longevity depends on correct air-fuel mixture and use of unleaded petrol only.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 (API SL/CF) specification (Daewoo SIB D100-03-014). Compatible with ACEA A2 and A3 standards.
Emissions: All X20XEV models comply with Euro 2 standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890). No Euro 3 variant was produced.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting 95 RON minimum (Daewoo TIS Doc. D15790).
Daewoo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D15790, D100-03-014, D100-05-025, D100-07-018
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of fuel consumption
The Daewoo X20XEV was used across Daewoo's D100 platform with longitudinal mounting and later adopted by Chevrolet for select export markets. This engine received model-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in higher-trim Leganza variants and revised ECU mappings for automatic transmission applications-and from 2000 the facelifted Leganza II included updated emissions controls, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Daewoo TIS D15830). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('X' for X20XEV series). Pre-2000 models have silver valve covers with ribbed finish; post-2000 units use black valve covers with smooth finish. Critical differentiation from X18XER: X20XEV has larger displacement (1,998 cc vs 1,796 cc) and distinct intake manifold shape. Service parts require production date verification - timing belts for pre-2000 X20XEV engines are incompatible with post-2000 revisions due to tensioner redesign (Daewoo SIB D100-07-018).
The X20XEV's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles with irregular maintenance. Internal Daewoo quality reports from 2003 indicated a notable share of pre-2000 engines suffering belt slippage before 90,000 km, while VCA records show increased catalytic converter failures in vehicles with neglected oil changes. Extended idling and infrequent service intervals increase tensioner and lifter wear, making adherence to maintenance schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Daewoo technical bulletins (1998–2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000–2008). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DAEWOO X20XEV.
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