The Terios is a smaller scaled SUV produced by Japanese auto maker Daihatsu and initially bared in 1997. The engine of the vehicle is an adapted Charade 1.3L 660cc unit with stable 4-wheel drive or 2-wheel drive individually. It features a five speed manual gear mechanism or a 4-speed automatic gear mechanism. The second phase Daihatsu Terios was manufactured by both Daihatsu and Toyota.

In 2000, Daihatsu altered the look of the Terios. The exterior as well as the interior was redesigned. The plastic frontal framework was substituted with a chrome framework. Cosmetically the front windows were adjusted to function electronically, central locking was fitted, head restraints were added to the rear seats and a rear roof-mounted aerofoil was fitted. On the mechanics side, the 1.3L SOHC 4-cylinder engine was substituted with a 1.3L DOHC 4-cylinder engine. The power of the Terios was adjusted with an additional 3kW (4hp).

During 2001 the Australian auto market presented a limited edition sport model. The automobile hosted colour-coded front and rear bumpers and the interior was characterised by metallic paint decorativeness on the middle cabinet as well as the dashboard. Only 200 units were released.

Internationally

The first phase Daihatsu Terios was traded internationally as the Toyota Cami. Both vehicles were manufactured as a 4-door, 5-seater wagon hosting 16 inch alloy wheels.

The Terios and Toyota Cami feature 3SZ petrol, 4-cylinder DOHC 16 Valve engines reaching a maximum ability of 77kW at 4400 rpm. Its engine capacity is 1495cc. The automobile is sustained by disk brakes featuring a booster in the front and drums leading in the rear. The steering wheel hosts power steering (Rack and Pinion), whilst its suspension features Macpherson bracings with coil springs at the front and at the rear, a five link unbending axle with coil springs.

It furthermore displays a five speed manual gearbox which is for sale as a two- or four wheel drive. The four speed automatic vehicle is only for sale as a four wheel drive.

Exterior

The exterior of the Daihatsu Terios and Toyota Cami features a polypropylene bumper which is completely crack resistant and chip resistant based on a collision not exceeding 15 km/hr. The bonnet is enhanced in its design to ensure the safety of pedestrians during a collision. The front head- and fog lights are manufactured from polycarbonate to withstand fading and cracking.

The Daihatsu Terios and Toyota Cami are fitted with a high placed rear stop light to enhance the visibility of the rear driver when the vehicle comes to a stop. The spare wheel is mounted to the outside of the vehicles to create a larger boot area.

Interior

The interior of the Daihatsu Terios and Toyota Cami is luxuriously comfortable and features an air conditioning system which is controlled electronically. It switches of on its own accord when the engine is in need of additional power. Other features include various storage compartments, CD/radio system and cup holders.

Both vehicles allows for sufficient leg room in the rear. The rear seats are able to adjust into folding forward in three positions. The doors open extremely wide to ensure optimal space when loading or to allow passengers adequate space when entering or exiting the automobile.

The vehicles provide complete safety to the driver with its fitted dual airbags, ABS brake system and steering wheel which is collapsible to reveal a recoil brake panel.

The Daihatsu Terios and Toyota Cami was designed and manufactured for safety and comfort. It is guaranteed to render its occupiers a comfortable (and safe) journey, no matter the distance you have to travel, lending the driver extra piece of mind.