New Diahatsu Terios is bigger and bolder

Wednesday, February 15, 2006

Longer and wider than previous model
Power from 1.5-litre petrol engine
Prices from £12,995 to £14,295

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The all-new Daihatsu Terios 4x4 makes its debut at the Geneva Motor Show, and will cost from £12,995 when it goes on sale in the UK in May.

Although that makes the cheapest S version £4000 more expensive than the outgoing model, the newcomer is a bigger, better-equipped car with a larger and more powerful engine.

From tip to tail, it measures 4075mm, which makes it longer than most superminis. The wheelbase is also stretched by 180mm to give added room in the cabin, and the new Terios is also 190mm wider than the previous model.

The 104bhp 1.5-litre engine is nearly 19bhp more powerful than the outgoing car's engine. Full performance figures haven't yet been given, but top speed increases from 90mph to almost 100mph. It is likely that the outgoing car's 12.9sec 0-60mph time will also be improved.

Daihatsu says there's space for five, and enough space to stack four golf bags in the 380-litre boot. Split-folding rear seats also tumble forward to liberate enough room to accommodate a mountain bike.

All models have a full-time four-wheel-drive system. An electronically controlled differential lock can also be called on for added traction in slippery conditions.

All models will feature air-conditioning, driver, passenger and side airbags, a CD player, electric windows and reversing sensors. Pay £14,295 and you can have an SX car with alloy wheels, extra body styling, roof rails, front foglamps and electric door mirrors.