Daihatsu Materia

Daihatsu Materia mini-MPV went on sale in the UK in July 2008 with prices starting from £10,995 on-the-road offering outstanding interior space and distinctive styling.

In fact, the boxy yet wide and squat design theme with flared wheelarches and minimum overhangs has created a cult-following in Japan - and now the United States - with several manufacturers struggling to keep up with consumer demand.

Key competitors in the UK and Europe are the similar-sized but move conservatively-styled Renault Modus and Vauxhall/Opel Meriva. All are compact and versatile with a high-command driving position that especially appeals to women.

However, the Materia's owners are expected to include style-conscious young families seeking a distinctive yet practical design plus older couples who appreciate the Materia's low running costs, manoeuvrability and easy access thanks to wide-opening and deep doors.

Daihatsu Terios Kiri (2008)

Daihatsu Terios Kiri

Daihatsu is offering customers extra value from its limited-edition Daihatsu Terios Kiri which is being restricted to only 250 cars.

Based on the Terios 1.5 S, the 'Kiri' adds unique metallic green paint, roof rails, special five-spoke 16 x 6 ins alloy wheels with 215/65 R16 tyres, a hard spare wheel cover, leather-covered steering wheel, front fog lamps and special 'Kiri' graphics.

Despite the extra equipment, the Daihatsu Terios Kiri costs just £13,895 on-the-road compared to the £12,995 OTR for the Terios 1.5 S.

Powered by a sprightly 1.5 litre petrol engine, the Terios 'Kiri' returns 40.4 mpg on the Extra Urban Cycle and boasts low emissions of 185 g/km meaning the Road Fund Licence is only £170 per annum.

The award-winning Terios range has a high standard specification which includes air-conditioning, power-steering, ABS with EBD and full-time four-wheel drive with electronic centre diff-lock.