8 months ago 08th Dec 13:27
Daihatsu have dared to be different by launching a brand new funky mini MPV christened the Materia that has such distinctive looks, it has created a cult following in Japan and the USA with manufacturers struggling to keep up with the customer demand.
So what is causing all this fuss? Well, the exterior looks is rather reminiscent of a throw back to the 1930’s American gangster cars and certainly reminded me of the cars I tried to draw as a child.
The Materia is boxy personified with a wide and squat like design along with flared wheel arches and short overhangs, but I have to say, I thought she was lovable and huggable.
Causing many heads to turn and gasps of amazement from passer by’s, in my books, is a good sign. The front of the Materia sees a seriously chunky yet short bonnet with the rectangular headlights sitting near the top then the bumper drops steeply down into the colour coded bumper with integrated fog lights just below the wide smiley grille.
The funky new look is not just for show because the shape actually maximises the interior space
The small glass area with darkened privacy glass in the rear gives the Materia almost a sinister look while the spoked alloy wheels linked by deep side skirts cements its firmness on the road. To the rear and the Chrysler PT Cruiser comes to mind due to the slightly sloping rear and narrow light clusters that gently curve over the wheel arches.
But the funky new look is not just for show because the shape actually maximises the interior space thus giving the Materia the MPV practicality. The feeling of space is further accentuated by the drivers instrument panel positioned in the centre of the dashboard and has a three dimensional looks thanks to the arc that sweeps across the whole fascia.
The funkiness continues into the cabin with black acrylic panels, blue lighting for the armrests and circular front door speakers. The Materia is action packed with height adjustable steering wheel and drivers seat, air conditioning, electric windows and door mirrors, radio CD with MP3 capability and an abundance of storage solutions. On top of that is the generous 619 litres of load space with the rear seat folded along with a compartment under the rear floor to keep the tools or first aid kit in place. The rear seats split 60/40 and come with a rake adjustable backrest, which can fully recline to make a bed. And yes the children simply loved this concept as I found them snuggled up in their sleeping bags one evening! With the rear seats in place there is still enough room to cater for the weekly shop and a bit of Christmas shopping.
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