The Daihatsu Mud Master concept is a diminutive, multi-faceted transporter that leverages compactness and lightweight for special off-road agility. Though it looks like a small van with 4X4 mechanicals in these photographs, the Mud Master-C also has scope to be a pickup truck.

The exterior design of the concept is simple and utilitarian, with a body that employs durable, lightweight materials and compact body-on-frame construction for cargo capability. A range of attachments can be fitted for a variety of applications, from outdoor sports to work in rough terrain. This mountain bike support model (pictured) was designed in collaboration with professional cyclist, Raita Suzuki. Large gullwing doors on all three sides heighten the concept's convenience attributes, ideal for loading and unloading bicycles.

Inside the cockpit is a simple instrument panel design with large-screen LCD multi-display and water-repellent seats, reflecting the car's rugged image. A hub reduction system together with large-diameter 16-inch off-road tires, enable the concept to achieve a 370mm ride height and generous angles of approach, departure and breakover for drivability over various off-road surfaces.

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Diahatsu Mud Master-C - Tokyo 2007
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Daihatsu has released pictures of the all-new Move mini-wagon that has just gone on sale in Japan. The most obvious change over previous incarnations is its one-box volume, now accompanied by assertive-looking twin headlamps. There is also a Move Custom option with a more conventional DRG that has some semblance to the Mitsubishi Colt. At the rear the haunches wrap into the trunk-lid, while both models have vertical rear lights.

Inside the basic architecture puts the binnacles in the middle, much like a scaled-down Nissan Primera. This with the monovolume form also benefits key dimensions, making the Move the most spacious in its class, while details include wing-mirrors that are connected to the reverse gear, rotating for a view of the kerb. Prices of the Daihatsu Move start from about $10,000.

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Daihatsu launched the Sonica yesterday, a small hatchback for Japan. Designed in Osaka, the Daihatsu Sonica furthers the goal of parent company Toyota Motor Corporation to make the brand synonymous with small affordable cars.