Hijet stowage for six
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by John Kendall • Daihatsu has introduced a six-seater MPV version of its Hijet microvan. The people carrier retains the twin side sliding doors of the van, now equipped with wind-down windows. The middle two seats can be hinged forwards to gain access to the rear, while the rear seats will fold flat against the middle row to provide four seats and luggage space. All seats are fitted with lap and diagonal seatbelts. There are two glass sunroofs, fitted with roller sun-blinds.
The drivetrain is shared with the van. Daihatsu's frontmounted 993cc triple cylinder petrol engine drives the rear axle via a five speed synchromesh gearbox. Maximum power is 47hp (35kW) at 5,300rpm, with peak torque of 56lbft (76Nm) produced at 4,000rpm.
The Hijet MPV is covered by a three year/60,000 mile warranty, plus six year anti-perforation corrosion warranty. In addition, there is 12 months emergency breakdown cover.
Built in Italy, Hijet MPV sales are not quota restricted. Daihatsu managing director Tony DarwallSmith says: "We will be happy if we sell 1,000 MPVs a year."
A brief drive in Ireland confirmed our previous impressions of the Hijet. In Dublin traffic, its compact dimensions gave it the edge over wider rivals, while its high driving position helped its good allround visibility.
The little triple cylinder petrol engine seems unburstable, happily buzzing away beneath the front seats. Performance is adequate, particularly for a vehicle with such a high centre of gravity. Its rolypoly handling does not inspire much confidence but the compliant suspension ensures a good ride.
Designed for Japanese city streets, the Hijet is not so happy on the open road. Cross winds blow it off course far too easily. Daihatsu claims it performs satisfactorily in crash testing, although it is exempt from European frontal impact tests. The lack of airbag and side impact beams increase the sense of vulnerability.
Taxi operators have expressed interest while Daihatsu hopes to win orders from hotel and airport courtesy bus operators and small businesses who need the flexibility of a van and car.
Priced at £7,995 including VAT, the Hijet MPV goes on sale on 9 June.