Daihatsu's cute little third-generation Sirion has been given a "beef injection" in the shape of a new 1.5-litre engine and an uprated suspension so you can use the extra voomah.
Daihatsu quotes 76kW at 6000rpm and 132Nm at 4400rpm - or 138Nm for the automatic model - for the four-cylinder engine and claims fuel consumption of only 6.2 litres/100km on the combined EU cycle (6.7 if you want it to change gears for you).
It also has an "intelligent", self-regenerating exhaust catalyser that's claimed to scrub more noxious gases from exhaust fumes than a standard catalyser, for longer before needing replacement.
The new Sirion 1.5i Sport has a 60:40 split rear seat for versatility and a built-in sound radio/CD player with auxiliary MP3 point. Aircon is standard, as are anti-lock brakes with electronic pressure distribution.
The new instrument cluster is always in the driver's sightline - regardless of seat adjustment - because it's mounted on the height-adjustable steering column.
The Sport styling package front foglights, headlights integrated with a sporty new bumper, side stone guards, rear spoiler and revised tail light clusters,
Prices
1.5i Sport - R119 995
1.5i Sport a/t - 128 995
- The Sirion 1.5i Sport comes with a three-year or 100 000km manufacturer's warranty and its service plan has been extended to three years or 75 000km.