A feminine ride with conveniences every woman wants in a car.

Modelled on Daihatsu’s standard 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder, 16-valve Terios means that on paper, the Diva isn’t all that different to its predecessor. But, step away from the engine and technical-speak, and it’s a whole other story.

Not only does this she-ride (yes boys, this one’s for us!) boast striking vinyl decal on the front, but climb inside for what I’d like to call, a bonafide ‘diva’ experience, finished with:

•    Heel-protecting carpets;

•    Comfortable, black leather seats set off with a luminous orange trim;

•    A touch-screen media centre with CD/DVD/MP3/iPod/USB and Bluetooth functionality, as well as a built-in Sat-Nav system, a hard drive and a full-colour reverse camera;

•    An adjustable seat and power-steering wheel that is fitted with convenient audio buttons.

Space?

There’s tons of it! Think lots of legroom, a big boot, six cup holders, a swanky passenger seat organiser which, let me tell you, is large enough to hold everything from babies’ bottles, padkos and tissues; to make-up, hair accessories galore. Not enough? Then simply flip the back seats down for added space.

Safety-wise?

With a  4-Star Euro NCAP safety rating, this compact SUV doubles up as an uber-illustrious mommy-mobile, complete with ISOFIX baby seat mounting points, driver and passenger airbags, ABS with EBD and Brake Assist, smash and grab safety, a crash-sensing cut-off system and a higher than normal brake light.

And the drive?

No bells nor whistles in terms of power. But, it’s easy and comfy, and the fact that you’re elevated in your seat makes visibility better. Plus the sporty bucket seats provide a sense of security which is always welcome if you’re a shorty like me.

A word from an expert:

“Although the Terios is built to specification in Japan, several divalicious details are retrofit in South Africa since the update only extends to the little SUV's cosmetic features. Beneath the metal, the Diva is a standard front-wheel drive, short-wheelbase with a ride height of 205mm powered by Daihatsu’s 1.5-litre petrol engine that develops 77kW at 6000rpm and 140Nm at 4400rpm and turns a five-speed manual transmission. The Daihatsu Terios Diva costs R245 995. A service is required every 15 00km (or annually) and the car is covered by a three-year or 100 000 km warranty.” Hailey Philander, Wheels24

The Daihatsu Terios is:

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  By: Meagan Karstens