Daihatsu

Global environmental issues, social changes, and shifts in consumer values are all combining to put compact cars in the spotlight. Since Daihatsu Motor Company was established in 1907, they have focused on compact cars.

This is an age with many issues. Big is not Better anymore. Rather, Small is Smart. These cars are friendly to the environment. They are also people friendly.

As a company they are practical, innovative and imaginative and as a member of the Toyota Group, aim to become the world's leading compact car maker.

Please click for more information on the Copen, Sirion, Materia, or Terios.

Copen

Sometimes a manufacturer makes a product that just looks so desirable that everybody wants one.

The new Copen is one of these cars. With its new 1.3 litre engine it is just unbeatable value for money. Not only has the Copen retained its stunning looks but it has added a stunning specification to match.

Standard equipment includes alloy wheels, rear spoiler, electric retractable hard top that opens or closes in only 20 seconds, air conditioning, electric windows and the list just goes on and on.

With a performance to match its looks the new Copen delivers in every area. 0 – 62 mph in only 9.5 seconds. 47.1 mpg on the combined cycle. CO2 emissions of only 140 g/km. Made in Japan it offers the traditional Japanese reliability. What more could you want?

Copen

1.3 from £11,495

Sirion

Not only do we think the Sirion is a brilliant car but WHATCAR? thinks so too. The Sirion was Highly Recommended in the Best Supermini category in the WHAT CAR Car of the Year 2007 awards.

To add icing to the cake in Test Drive's Car of the Year award the Sirion was Highly Commended in the City Car class.

The Sirion is a 5 door supermini with a range of engines to suit all driving styles. Starting with a 1.0 litre engine for maximum economy, then a 1.3 litre engine for a little more power and finally a 1.5 engine for those who want a more sporty drive. Easy to get in and out of, it is built in Japan and offers performance, reliability, economy, low emissions and high levels of equipment.

Low emissions mean that the annual Road Tax on the Sirion 1.0 litre is only £35 per year.

The interior offers class leading space whilst standard equipment includes air conditioning, integral CD tuner, height adjustable steering column, electric windows front and rear, driver, passenger and side airbags. The rear seat splits 60:40 giving load versatility.

Sirion

1.0 from £7,455

Materia

With its striking looks and spacious interior the Materia offers style and practicality.

A split, folding, reclining and sliding rear seat means that the accommodation is flexible enough to meet all your needs – be it luggage space or more leg room for those rear seat passengers.

Whatever your hobby, whatever the task, you'll be amazed at how the Materia swallows up luggage, golf bags, picnic baskets and even surf boards with ease.

Standard equipment includes air conditioning, alloy wheels, CD Tuner with 6 speakers, rear parking sensors, electric mirrors and head turning looks.

A 1.5 litre engine guarantees lively performance with economy giving 39.2 mpg (manual transmission) on the Combined Cycle with a 0 – 62 mph acceleration time of 10.8 seconds.

Materia

1.5 from £10,995

Terios

Winner of the Best Compact 4x4 category in 4x4 Magazine's 4x4 of the Year 2007 Awards the Terios is no stranger to praise.

With its 1.5 litre engine giving ample performance and economy, its low emissions means that Road Tax is only £205 per year.

Compact but with an amazingly spacious interior, room for 5 people and loads of luggage space the Terios is at home in the city as well as the country. The 1.5 litre petrol engine gives good performance and economy whilst air conditioning is standard as is the integral CD tuner and reverse parking sensors on all models.

Shorter than the Golf the Terios is really the alternative hatchback offering space, versatility and 4WD.

Terios

1.5 from £12,995