IF there's a car that dares to be different it's Daihatsu's value for money offering the Materia.

With its high roof, stubby bonnet and near vertical tailgate this model not only stands out from the crowd but is also extremely practical with a vast amount of interior space.

An example of its innovative design is the sliding rear bench seat, which can also be folded flat to create a huge loading area.

There's just the one engine option, a 1.5-litre 16-valve petrol unit that produces 103PS that ensures this mini-MPV packs a real punch while still returning nearly 40 miles per gallon.

It costs £10,775 and comes well equipped with electric windows, four airbags, air-con and alloy wheels.

The Japanese producer's entire range is made up of compact models and the most popular is budget-buster the Sirion.

Cars offering outstanding economy are a serious business in the current climate and the Sirion is up there with the best, the all-petrol line-up stretching to 14 models from 1.0 to 1.4-litres and three trim grades of S, SE and SX.

Recommended is the 1.0-litre model which offers an average 56.5 mpg with CO2 emissions among the lowest in its class at 118 g/km, resulting in just £35 a year road tax.

And the green values are not at the expense of performance either, as this engine propels the Sirion to a whisker under 100mph and 0-60 in 13.5 seconds.

The Sirion comes fully loaded with air-con, six airbags, remote central locking, height adjustable steering column, electric windows front and rear, tachometer and fuel consumption display. It also has an unlimited mileage five-year warranty.

Daihatsu's agile and stylish mini-SUV the Terios shares that warranty and also trades on the value ticket with prices from £12,725.

Safety comes as standard on all Terios models, with full-time four-wheel-drive, wheel-spin-limiting central locking differential, 15-inch front disc brakes, Electronic Brake Force Distribution and anti-lock brakes.

There are also twin and side airbags, a solid safety cell and first class visibility due to the high driving position.

The entry level Terios S also features air-con, four electric windows, 12v power outlet, remote central locking and reverse parking sensors.

With the interior space of a far larger vehicle, plus good boot space and 60/40 split folding rear seats, the Terios is a practical and versatile alternative to the traditional family car.

The Copen open-top sports model completes the Daihatsu line-up. It has an electric, metal folding roof, lively 1.3-litre engine and costs £11,745.