Daihatsu Gran Max Van

Overview:

Daihatsu motors, a celebrated name in Japan automobile industry, have earned themselves a reputation over the years as producers of micro cars and off-road vehicles. Not only in its native Japan, Daihatsu's car are extremely popular in Asian, Middle Eastern and European markets. Originated from the land of technology and innovations, Daihatsu motors believes in the motto of continuous modification and experimentation in its products to completely satisfy the needs of its customers and exceeding expectation with each product. One such vehicle of Daihatsu, is Gran Max Van, that has bought a breath of fresh air in the segment of commercial vehicle. The market of commercial vehicle is pretty small especially in Asian regions, and are filled with cheap and inferior quality products which do not inspire any confidence in buyers. Luckily, due to creative manufactures like Daihatsu, consumers now have an option to opt for a sophisticated yet practical MPV. Daihatsu’s experience in commercial vehicle segment is pretty vast, as it started to built the first models since 1960. Thankfully, because of their constant upgradation approach, Daihatsu's models were constantly innovated and today the most advance LCV (Light Commercial Vehicles) in the company's lineup if Gran Max.

Daihatsu gives two option to buyers to choose from – Gran Max Pickup and Gran Max Van with either version powered by 1.5 L 4 cylinder 16 valve engine generating a moderate 71 kW at 6000 rpm along with a peak torque of 134 Nm at 4400 rpm. The car offers a basic 2-wheel drive along with 5-speed manual transmission system. Crafting a classic multi-purpose vehicle on the same chassis in never an ordinary task. However, Daihatsu has plunged its decades of experience gained in the production of mini van and commercial vehicles and created a top-notch vehicle in the shape of Gran Max Van. Gran Max is available in two variants – Pannel Van and Glass Van in five metallic colours. Creating a classic dual purpose vehicle on the same chassis is never an easy task. However Daihatsu have plunged all of their decades of experience in the mini-van and truck production industry into creating a first class vehicle in the Gran Max Van

Mileage and Fuel economy:

Gran Max Van with its 1.5 Liter petrol engine with DVVT technology is very fuel efficient. With its Multi-point fuel injection DOHC system, Gran Max gives a fairly good mileage of 8.8-11.2 km/l while driving in city area whereas in highways, this MPV gives a mileage of 8.1-10.3 km/l, which makes a combined mileage of 11.7 km/l. At this rate, Gran Max stand at a good position amongst its competitors.

Power:

Under the hood, this tenacious LCV, meets its match in a 1.5 Liter DVVT engine that achieves both a stable power of 71 kW at 6000 rpm and yields a balanced torque of 134 Nm at 4400 rpm. This unit is married to a 5- speed manual transmission. The 4 cylinder and 16 Valve engine are cable of pulling the bulky vehicle with ease.

Acceleration & Pickup:

The spark ignition 4-stroke gasoline engine with Variable Valve Timing with Intelligence system is pretty efficient and generates a top speed of 154 km/h. This sturdy MPV gives a satisfactory acceleration even when one carries load at back. It reaches the speed of 0 to 100 km/h in 13 seconds.

Exterior:

Unlike its old ancestor, the new Gran Max features an admirable design with modern elements and classic frame. Daihatsu has custom made the design of their Gran Max, to fully perform the dual purpose of a working truck and people carries. The new and improved low loading deck floor make loading and unloading of cargo easy and the presence of sturdy rear axle and minimum wheel house intrusion makes Gran Max a light van more than capable of carrying heavy loads. This LCV have retained the common elements of its predecessor such as an over-sized bumper making a bold statement spotting an insignia which gives the vehicle its rugged appeal. Modernized head-lights despite its simple shape accentuates the look of the front bumper. Stylish black-mat finish grill copes great with the rest of the body. The bonnet is heavily raked and sits at a similar angle as the windshield . Two sliding side doors a big enough for accessible loading and give the car a compact look. Daihatsu's designers have strike a perfect balance between functionality and style of the car.

Exterior Measurements:

The new Gran Max comes with a taller height and compact dimensions. The MPV stands at a gigantic size of 4045-4195 mm X 1665-1675 mm X 1890-1900 mm with a wheel base of 2650 mm. Gran Max's has kept its ground clearance minimum to 165 mm.

Interior:

On the inside, Diahatsu Gran Max boats many improvements than is previous version. The materials are made of strong plastic to support the durability factor. The quality of upholstery in the form of cloth/leather is fine and comes in three different colors and prints to give the MPV a modern and classy look. The dashboard features a simplistic design mounted with facilities like shift know, meters, AC dial and ventilation equipment, in a user-friendly manner and easily operable by the driver. Ergonomically placed controls on dashboard make it easy to reach and operate functions Gran Max features a dash mounted knob which is uncomplicated in use and enhance the overall demeanor. The cabin highlighted in silver color gives a premium feel. With upgraded features and modern design, this powerful MPV, projects a strong image of determined and built to last while providing comfort and contentment to its passengers.

Interior Comfort:

The Gran Max is not just rugged vehicle made to carry heavy loads. Installed with upgraded features. This MPV makes you travel in utmost comfort. The Seats in various color and print options are designed in special driving- sitting position to provide a relax feel. The seat slide option assures personalized driving position. The roomy interiors of the van are big enough to accommodate both front and back passengers with enough leg and head space suitable for any job or adventure. Large sliding door opens wide to make it easy for passengers to board and exit.

Interior Measurements:

This sturdy commercial vehicle is pioneer in the market because of its space efficiency. The cargo area in Glass variant with all the 5 seats up measures 1255 mm x 1495 mm x 1340 (L x W x H). This cargo length is enhanced to 2075 mm after folding all the rear seats.

Engine and Performance:

Daihatsu Gran Max is powered by best in class 1.5 litre gasoline engine with DVVT (Dynamic Variable Valve Timing) technology. Spark-ignition system engine with Multi Point Fuel Injection system churns out a power of 71 kW at 6000 rpm and yields a balanced torque of 134 Nm at 4400 rpm. Mated with 5-speed automatic transmission engine along with 4 cylinder and 16 Valve gives sufficient performance by rotating at lower speed and less sound driving at high speeds. This sturdy LCV runs at a top speed of 154km/h even when loaded with heavy bulks.

Stereo and Accessories:

Since Gran Max is made for the dual purpose of a working truck and carrier, its front seat entertainment and other basic infotainment features are left behind. To maintain the low cost of the vehicle, Daihatsu is not specifically bother in offering the best available interior accessories. The minivan offers a provision for a basic music system, which if the buyer wants, can be availed at an additional cost.

Wheels:

This commercial van comes outfitted in wheel size of measurement 13-inch. It enhances the grip of the vehicle with road even though cargo compartment is laden with heavy weights and plenty of belongings.

Braking and Handling:

This large minivan, needs a great braking mechanism as it is expected to perform well is rough conditions along with carrying about seven occupants with ease. The front wheels of this mini van are fitted with a set 13 inch ventilated disc brakes and the rear wheels are fixed with the drum brakes which allows the wheels to maintain the tractive contact with the surface of road based on the driver’s input while braking. Moreover, this minibus offers dynamic suspension system including with a McPherson strut along with stabilizer bar. Whereas, the rear axle has been installed with 5-link coil springs suspension.

Safety and Security:

In terms of safety there is not much that Gran Max offers. The car gets front ELR seat belts that allow the passengers to have a free movement while wearing the belt but at the same time in times of emergency, the retractors lock and help in keeping the passenger safe. The rear seats get static seat belts. The van is installed with SRS airbags for both the front passengers which are basic yet effective. The van is also installed with side beam bags for the front passengers to minimize the effect post collision. There are no safety equipments for the back passengers.

Pros

An ideal vehicle for utility purpose
Economic Price range
Spacious Interiors and easily accessible cargo space

Cons

Outdated exterior
Lack of safety features
Infotainment features lack support