Daihatsu Mira Cocoa Launched in Japan

A new small passenger vehicle saw daylight in Japan this week, as manufacturer Daihatsu rolled out the Mira Cocoa. With the aim set on female drivers, Daihatsu hopes to sell some 3,000 units a month, at a price ranging in between 1 million ($10,600) to 1.364 million yen ($14,460).

“Mira Cocoa is a mini passenger vehicle that targets women who pursue a fun and laidback lifestyle by selecting products that suit their particular tastes. The vehicle is intended to perfectly meet their needs and to be a trusted partner thanks to a design that makes it fun to drive around and its ease of handling,” Daihatsu said in a release.

The Mira is powered by a 660 cc three-cylinder engine, developing only 58 horsepower and 65 Nm of maximum torque. It comes paired with a 4-speed automatic gearbox and will be available in both front- and all-wheel drive versions.

''Economic conditions continue to be harsh, but I'm confident that minivehicles will contribute as an easily accessible eco-car with lower fuel consumption and saving of resources amid increased consciousness about the environment,'' Daihatsu president Teruyuki Minoura was quoted as saying by just-auto.com at a press conference in Tokyo.

Even if it may appear a bit expensive, the Mira Cocoa meets the Japanese JC08 mode (Cold) test cycle standard, hence it will be eligible for tax breaks. As for the unconventional name given to the car, it is supposed to "express the fact that the car offers passengers the comfortable feeling and relaxed atmosphere that one gets from drinking cocoa."

Moving on...

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