Multi-purpose vehicles, or MPVs, are suitable for large families owing to their generous interior and cargo space and flexible seating configurations. But that’s not the only reason to buy one. Like other cars, they also have a long list of safety equipment, infotainment systems, and convenience features. While there are several MPVs in the market, the Daihatsu Sigra is a popular choice because of its great design, multiple trims, and competitive prices.

Exterior design
A key factor that makes the Sigra stand out in the MPV segment is its simple yet elegant external design. Daihatsu has given the vehicle new LED headlamps and a dark grille with chrome ornament for a sharper, sportier look in the front.

Interior design and space
Like its exterior, the Sigra’s cabin is well-designed to be both stylish and practical. Daihatsu has used durable and premium materials for the panels. The car’s seats are also comfortable and have a darker shade, ensuring dirt and stains are not easily visible. All three rows are roomy, providing ample headroom, shoulder room, knee room, and leg room.

Another key attribute of the all-new Sigra is the ergonomic nature of its cabin. All buttons, levers, and controls are placed close enough so that one can easily reach them. For example, the air-conditioning controls are right next to the steering wheel, ensuring drivers can access them at any time without moving too much.

Engine options
Like many vehicles in its segment, the Sigra comes with the choice of multiple engines. For example, one can go for a frugal yet punchy 1.0-liter engine that produces 67 PS of power and 9.1 Nm of torque or a more powerful 1.2-liter engine that creates 88 PS of power and an impressive 11 Nm of torque.

As one can expect, the first engine offers a better fuel economy. With three cylinders, an EFI fuel supply system, and four valves per cylinder, this engine can be purchased with a manual or an automatic gearbox. The two gearbox choices also apply to the 1.2-liter, four-cylinder engine version of the new Sigra, which fares better in terms of power and performance.

Fuel economy
Both engines offer decent fuel economy, but the 1.0-liter is slightly better. The small size of the engines, combined with how well they are tuned, contribute to the high mileage figure. The all-new Sigra returns an average of 5.78 liters per 100 km, which is quite impressive for a vehicle of this size. As per the manufacturer, all the variants, whether with a manual or an automatic gearbox, return similar fuel consumption numbers. Compared to many vehicles in its segment, the new Sigra is either on par or better when it comes to overall fuel economy.

Features
The new Sigra has several exciting features that make every trip convenient. Its top-end variant is particularly attractive, with numerous advanced systems.

• An air conditioner
• Accessory power outlets at the rear and front rows
• A bottle holder
• Power windows for the front passengers
• A heater to keep the cabin warmed up during chilly weather
• Cupholders for the rear occupants
• Automatic headlamps that sense the dark and illuminate as per the intensity needed

The long list of convenience and safety features is one of the main value propositions for this vehicle. That said, the futures can vary depending on the variant one chooses, so it’s important to compare them before deciding.

Safety equipment
Usually, MPVs are used by large families or those who need to travel around in groups. This is one reason they need to come with the best and most extensive safety equipment possible. The Sigra’s safety features are proactive (avoid collisions and other accidental outcomes) as well as reactive (minimize the impact of collisions and the potential injuries to the vehicle’s occupants).

• An anti-lock braking system
• Driver and passenger airbags
• Door ajar warning
• Crash sensors
• Front and rear seat belts
• Height adjustable front seat belts
• Seat belt warning lamps
• Parking sensors
• Rear park assist
• Child safety locks
• Front and side impact beams
• Engine immobilizer

Like the convenience features, the safety features can vary depending on the trim one chooses. The higher trims are usually safer with additional and more advanced safety technologies.

Prices
The all-new Sigra comes in multiple variants, such as the Sigra D, M, X, and R. People can buy both the 1.0-liter engine variant and its bigger cousin, the 1.2-liter engine variant, for prices that range from about Rp 139.000.000 to Rp 178.800.000. These prices are highly reasonable and competitive compared to some other vehicles in the same segment.

With its punchy engines, long list of features, solid build, and many safety technologies, the all-new Sigra is among the market leaders in its segment. Still, one should research, compare available options, and make an informed choice. A car is usually a long-term investment, and one wouldn’t want to be stuck with something that does not meet their requirements.