Daihatsu Launches the Partially Redesigned Compact SUV Terios

DAIHATSU MOTOR CO., LTD. (Daihatsu) today announced the minor redesign of the compact SUV Terios. Exports of the new Terios will commence in November, initially focusing on Europe.

The Terios (Japanese name: Be-go) was launched in February 2006 as a "tough yet casual SUV" and exports of the vehicle were begun. It won wide support among customers as a new vehicle genre that combines the drivability of an SUV and convenience of a compact vehicle with the functionality of a station wagon.

The modern, urban exterior styling and more upscale interior significantly enhance the product appeal of the new Terios. Plans call for sales of 3,500 units/month worldwide (excluding Japan).

The new Terios offers the following features:

Exterior

- An edgy, modern exterior styling that appeals to urban senses, and establishes a greater sense of presence
- Front and rear bumpers and front grille that boast a new design
- Newly designed 16-inch aluminum wheels
- Rear combination lamps with clear lenses


Interior

- A highly sophisticated interior that provides a greater sense of luxury
- A new design for the instrument cluster
- Newly designed steering wheel
- A new color for the center cluster


Convenient features and functions

- Integrated CD player and AM/FM radio audio system with an auxiliary jack to connect to MP3/WMA players
- Steering wheel equipped with audio system controls
- Fully automatic air conditioner

source : daihatsu.com

Daihatsu coming back at the PRC with the Bego SUV

Daihatsu never did particularly well in the PRC, they came at first with their minivans, they were unique to start with, but then every other company in China started to make minivans too. Daihatsu came back to China with the Terios SUV, which saw minor success, but not as successful as the Zotye SUV, a Chinese version of the Terios. Diahatsu recently tried again with the Xenia, a small MPV. China Car Times is not currently aware of sales goals, or current sales for the Daihatsu Xenia, but seeing as we hardly see them on the roads of the PRC, we cant help but think it isn’t selling that great.

Daihatsu is not ready to give up on the PRC yet, they are planning to launch the Bego SUV (top left) in China later this year with a 1.5 engine and a reasonable price tag of 120,000rmb to 150,000rmb. Other small SUV’s, such as the Suzuki Jimney appear to be gathering steam sales wise, if the Jimney sells, then there is no reason why the Bego wont, providing that Daihatsu carry out a proper media campaign rather than bringing out a car and then forgetting about it, like they did with the Xenia.