Japanese car maker Daihatsu launched in August 2009 MIRA COCOA to the Japanese domestic market, a cute mini-car specifically marketed for women. According to the press release jargon the woman being targeted is pursuing a fun and laid-back style. The name Cocoa was chosen  to reflect how the car gives the passengers the warm and fuzzy feeling that occurs when drinking hot cocoa and the design language for MIRA includes words like friendly, modern and carefree, and is definitely non-threatening with its rounded edges and with an interior designed to resemble a well-loved bag, offering an incredible panoramic view. Cocoa also features suede seats and has a deodorant feature that keeps the car smelling fresh.

In terms of performance, we have a five-door vehicle with a 66o cc three cylinder engine, producing 58 horsepower ND 65 Nm of maximum torque. It also comes  paired with a four-speed automatic gearbox and will be available in both front and all-wheel drive versions. So, the drivers have the option of getting either a four-speed transmission or a CVT (Continuous Variable Transmission), depending on their wish of having an all-drive wheel or not. Cocoa is also available in 2WD or 4WD.

MIRA COCOA is also environmental friendly with emission levels 75% lower than the standard  put in place by the 2005 Exhaust Emission Standards for Japan and comes in 25% below the 2010 fuel efficiency standards. Another important selling point for Cocoa is safety. The car is fitted with a Total Advanced Function collision safety body, meeting collision standards for both Europe and Japan, and is equipped with an impact absorbing steering-wheel standard airbags and 3point ELR(Emergency Locking Retractor) seat belts. In the case of an eventual collision with a pedestrian , Mira Cocoa is designed to soften the blow with its impact reducing structures and force absorbing spaces in the resin cowl, wiper pivots and hood hinges.

At its launching time a Japan exclusive, Mira Cocoa is going for a wallet-friendly car, ranging from 1 million yen to 1.364 million yen(around 10579.54 USD to 14430.50 USD). The minivan is no more  than a longer version of the Daihatsu Cuore, presented at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show along with other news of the Japanese house.

Fun to drive around, easy handling, Mira Cocoa provides reliability and security and it currently seems to be quite a hit in the UK with its modest European price, about 7500 euros. The model is available  in L, X, Plus L, Plus X and range -topping Plus G forms. Its main competitor remains the Suzuki Alto Lapin, both having a distinctive retro styling.

Currently  Japan`s number-one minicar best-seller, Mira Cocoa follows the wheel tracks of two other classic food-and beverage-themed minis in Japan: the Suzuki Alto Afternoon Tea and Mitsubishi Minica Lettuce.

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