Daihatsu Fourtrak (1984-2002) Car Review

Drive along any country lane and youÕre bound to spot one: thereÕs no doubt that the Daihatsu Fourtrak is the country-dweller's favourite 4x4. The reasons are simple. This unassuming mud-plugger is competitively priced, as tough as old boots and extremely competent in the rough. The rather basic original model was not endowed with the most appealing road manners. However, this problem was addressed in 1993 with the introduction of an independent suspension system, which did wonders for its road-going ability. At the same time, the whole range benefited from an extensive revamp and the appropriately named ÔIndependentÕ trim level was introduced to help the Fourtrak appeal to a wider audience. The ruggedness, which was the biggest appeal of the original, is still there though. The Fourtrak will seat the family, carry the odd chest of drawers and sail through a ploughed field as well as whisk you down to the local wine bar on a Friday night.

History
The first Fourtraks arrived in the UK way back in 1984 and offered basic off-road petrol and diesel-powered transport in short wheelbase three-door form. For a few years (1985-1988) they were joined by Soft Top versions, but the derivatives weÕre looking at here are the sturdy yet stylish Estates.
In 1990, all models were treated to uprated brakes, exhausts and transmissions. A year later the range was revised again and all models gained restyled bodywork, extended wheel arches, bigger bumpers and little luxuries such as electric windows and central locking. A 90bhp 2.2-litre petrol derivative arrived in June 1992 to compliment the 2.0-litre petrol and 2.8-litre turbo diesel engines already on offer.
The most significant changes didnÕt occur until a year later though. Early models had a harsh ride caused by their old-fashioned leaf sprung suspension, and this was addressed in 1993 with the a new suspension set-up. The `Independent` suspension system did wonders for the road-going ability, its double wishbone set-up at the front and five-link coil-spring suspension at the rear meant potholes would no longer shake your fillings out. The same year saw the introduction of a pair of seven-seater versions, the 2.8 TDL and TDX and the demise of the less popular petrol-engined derivatives.
Later revisions improved noise and vibration, and safety has been a priority too. The car looks more aggressive than it did when it was originally launched. Later versions are some 110mm wider than their predecessors and boast wider wheelarches as well as sleeker bumpers and a revised grille. Inside, there's a user-friendly instrument binnacle, while the driver and front seat passengers benefit from bucket-style seats with integral head restraints.

Opinion
All the latest Fourtrak models come with power steering, selectable two or four-wheel drive and an immobiliser security system. Inside, the cars are fitted with a substantial rear roll-over bar which provides mountings for three-point inertia-reel seat belts for rear seat passengers. There are also two (rather uncomfortable) occasional seats in the rear in the long wheelbase models to increase the carrying capacity to seven.
Higher up the range, the TDL-SE is another seven-seater with a healthy dose of equipment. This runs to electric windows, central locking, a four-speaker stereo, an adjustable steering column and additional instrumentation. If you want more, the Fourtrak TDX has colour-coded wheelarch extensions and unique alloy wheels. Gadgetry on the flagship TDX includes electronic 4WD engagement, electric mirrors, power headlamp washers and an RDS stereo system.
If you choose a model thatÕs fitted with the torquey 2.8-litre intercooled turbo diesel unit, youÕll also get a hefty 3,500kg towing capacity.

Cost
The best course of action, if you can afford it, is to stick with the post-1993 Independent machines, but you do have to pay more for their improved ride and specification. A 1993L TDX Independent 2.8 is likely to set you back around £1,800, while a slightly lower spec TDL Independent should start at about £1,500.
Alternatively you could take the newer route Ð after all, the Fourtrak is seen by many as a more affordable alternative to a Land Rover. A 2000X-reg TDL Independent should start at £6,600 and a TDX Independent will set you back around £8,800 on 2002 plates. For SE versions, add around £500-£1000 to these figures depending on age and condition.

Problems?
These capable workhorses are likely to be used for serious off-roading, so itÕs advisable to check the bodywork, suspension and chassis for damage. Particular areas that need attention are differentials, gearbox and engine.
Faulty or damaged turbos can be expensive to repair, so have the engine checked out by an expert if youÕre unsure.

Parts
Parts prices are relatively low for an Oriental make. A brake master cylinder will be around £85, front shock absorbers will be roughly £25 and a clutch disc will be only just over £50. All these prices exclude VAT.

Road
As already mentioned, post 1993 cars are better on-road. That said, donÕt expect car-like manners: the ride is still rather bouncy on the tarmac. Off-road itÕs a different matter though: the Fourtrak is one of the most capable small 4x4s around with good ground clearance. It will clamber up a rocky outcrop almost as well as a mountain goat, or even wade through a raging river. If all this sounds a little too extreme for your needs, donÕt worry: the Fourtrak is just as good at getting you safely off a waterlogged school playing field.

Overall
The 2.8 turbo diesel versions are well equipped, sturdy and have even gained rather stylish looks in recent years. All in all, they provide a good, affordable alternative to a Land Rover.

By CLAIRE EVANS.

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Daihatsu Cuore, Many Features Packed In One Small Vehicle

Since the year 1980, the world has already been introduced to the Daihatsu Cuore. This vehicle has constantly been in production since that year and until present, manufacture and production for this vehicle has still not halted. It runs under the Daihatsu brand and is classified and categorized as a hatchback. In Japan, which is the home country of the Daihatsu Cuore, this vehicle is known and marketed as the Daihatsu Mira. However, in other places around the world, this same vehicle is also known as Daihatsu Domino or the Daihatsu Charade.

The Daihatsu Cuore has been made available in two body style options which are both hatchbacks however the difference lies in the number of doors that it has. One holds three doors while another holds five. This vehicle from the 1980s actually replaced the Daihatsu Fellow when the latterÕs production was halted. The Daihatsu Cuore shares most of its components with other Daihatsu vehicles like the Daihatsu Leeza, the Daihatsu Move, the Daihatsu YRV, the Daihatsu Copen, the Daihatsu Terios, and the Daihatsu Opti. This vehicleÕs competition include the Suzuki Altoworks, the Mitsubishi Dangun ZZ, the Subaru Vivio, and the Suzuki Cervo.

The company markets the Daihatsu Cuore as a new variety and entry to the mini car segment and it claims that this vehicle would serve as an avenue for channeling changes to this category. The present version of the Daihatsu Cuore is more elegant and has a style that appeals greatly to the younger buyers. It has also been made available with a range of bright and vivid body color choices which comprise of Black Mica, Blue Mica Metallic, Champagne Metallic Opal, Lavender Metallic Opal, Red, Rose Metallic Opal, Silver Metallic, and White.

Despite the fact that the Daihatsu Cuore is a small car, one who would take a further look at the vehicle would know that this vehicle has a whole lot things to offer. In fact, in its segment, it is considered as the most spacious. It also comes with safety and comfort features that are of high quality. Daihatsu claims that the Daihatsu Cuore holds a very fine design compared to the rest of the vehicles in its class. As a petrol car, this vehicle delivers and performs with a fuel economy that is considered as the best in this category.

By Stacey Wilson.