Daihatsu now has the perfect answer for belt-tightening motorists wishing to downsize but not down-spec.

For its most popular model – the Sirion supermini – has now been expanded to include more luxury models badged simply ‘+’.

The extra equipment on Sirion ‘+’ models comprises a large electric sun-roof with a rain-sensing and anti-trap feature, front fog lamps, side protection mouldings, leather steering wheel and leather gear-knob for manual models.

The more luxurious ‘+’ models cost an extra £895 for all models except the top-of-the-range Sirion 1.5 SX which carries a £725 surcharge.

Priced from £7,995 on-the-road for the Sirion 1.0 S, the entire range is extremely well-equipped with, for example, air-conditioning, ABS with EBD, driver, passenger and side airbags, radio/CD player, four electric windows and remote central-locking.

Despite a difficult new car market, the Sirion is enjoying a 40 per cent sales increase this year, aided by outstanding fuel economy and low exhaust emissions. The 1.0 litre version, for example, records 64.2 mpg on the Extra Urban Cycle and qualifies for a £35 annual Road Fund Licence.

As a further incentive in these financially-challenging times, all Daihatsus now come with a five-year unlimited mileage warranty plus five years’ UK roadside recovery. The offer is not transferable and applies to all retail sales.