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• NEWJun. 19, 2006

Daihatsu Launches New Mini Passenger Car SONICA

Jun. 19, 2006

DAIHATSU MOTOR CO., LTD. (Daihatsu) announced the launch in Japan of the new SONICA*1 mini passenger car on June 19.

The SONICA is a new concept car, developed in the pursuit of innovatively high quality driving performance for a small car. With target buyer focus on commonly known "freestyle couples" who place great importance on their own personalities and private time, this car anticipates recent lifestyle changes in Japan, as well as the shift of user preference toward smaller cars. The SONICA is the result of Daihatsu's continuing quest for passenger cars that give their users the driving enjoyment and cruising comfort they are seeking.

Key features of the newly launched SONICA:

(1) Car body design that brings refreshment and excitement

Low, long body configuration that conveys an image of comfortable driving

(2) Spacious, comfortable interior that relaxes

Low floor, long and wide interior space
Roomy interior that gently encompasses passengers; bench seats that make cruising enjoyable

(3) Traveling performance ideal for cruising

Turbo engine equipped with newly developed CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) achieves smoothly controlled yet powerful driving force, with low fuel consumption (2WD: 23.0 km/L*3, lowest among the class*2; 4WD: 21.0 km/L*3).
Exhilarating steering feel, relaxing ride
Low interior noise that accommodates lively conversation

*1: SONICA is a coined name, representing a soaring and nimble car.
*2: According to Daihatsu's June 2006 survey for light vehicles with turbo engines
*3: Based on 10-15 Japanese test cycle. Figures reviewed by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport

Monthly sales target in Japan: 2,000 units
Manufacturer's suggested retail price (excluding consumption tax): ¥1.13 - 1.475 million
(Photo shows 2WD/RS Limited grade of SONICA, priced at ¥1.35 million.)

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