Tacuma range enhanced with new engine

Following last autumn's introduction of the Tacuma, Daewoo's mini-MPV, the latest addition to the Tacuma range has just gone on sale.

Fitted with a 1.6-litre D-tech engine, the appeal of the range will now broaden with the inclusion of this frugal yet flexible engine. The introduction of the 1.6-litre coincides with the discontinuation of the Tacuma SE, which was fitted with a 1.8-litre engine.

There will now be three derivatives of the Tacuma model. The SE and SX will be powered by the 1.6 and the CDX will continue with the 2.0-litre engine.

In terms of specification, the SE features power steering, driver and passenger airbag, side impact protection beams, front seat belt pre-tensioners, 50:50 split rear seat, alarm and keyless entry, electric front windows, central locking, side body protection strips, roof bars and a Thatcham category 2 immobiliser. The on-the-road price is £10,995.

The SX costs £11,995 and, in addition to the standard features on the SE, comes with air-conditioning, three separate folding/removable rear seats, rear electric windows, metallic-look fascia, extra console-mounted power supply jack, steering wheel mounted audio control, seat back tables, driver's adjustable lumbar support, anti-lock brakes, intermittent rear wash/wipe and front fog lamps.

Performance from the 1.6-litre engine is impressive, with 103 bhp being produced at 6000 rpm and a broad band of torque throughout the rev range, peaking at 104lb-ft at 3,400 rpm. This results in a top speed of 104mph and the dash from 0-62 is covered in 11.8 seconds.

The all-inclusive price includes free servicing for three years/60,000 miles, a three-year/60,000-mile comprehensive mechanical warranty and three years' free AA roadside recovery. The body is covered by a three-year paint and six years' anti-corrosion warranty. In addition, a free defensive driving course and test with the Institute of Advanced Motorists is included.