The 2001 Daihatsu U4B Concept, aptly named "Urban 4x4 Buggy," aimed to be a versatile mini car capable of tackling both city streets and off-road adventures. Here's a closer look at its features:
Built for Any Terrain:
Four-wheel drive: This feature allowed the U4B to navigate challenging terrain and various driving conditions.
Compact and rounded form: This design optimized maneuverability and handling, making it suitable for tight city spaces.
Performance and Convenience:
Three-cylinder engine: This engine, equipped with a turbocharger and dual overhead camshafts, likely offered a balance of power and efficiency.
Four-speed automatic transmission: This provided smooth gear changes and ease of use for drivers.
High-quality and user-friendly interior: Despite its compact size, the U4B prioritized comfort and user experience with a well-designed interior.
Additional Notes:
The U4B shared some similarities with the Daihatsu UFE concept showcased the same year. Both featured three-cylinder turbocharged engines and all-wheel drive systems, suggesting a potential design direction for future compact SUVs from Daihatsu.
While the U4B never reached production, it showcased Daihatsu's exploration of versatile and practical small car designs with a focus on both urban and off-road capability.
Source: www.hakonet.de; "Exhibitions. Tokyo motorshow 2001" - Newspaper "AUTOREVIEW", 2001 / No. 21
Images: DAIHATSU MOTOR CO.
