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Daihatsu Mud Master-C

Minivan meets pickup truck in this versatile and tough off-roader with gullwing doors and room for an ATV

Daihatsu Mud Master-C

By Stuart Schwartzapfel

As its name indicates, the Daihatsu Mud Master-C Concept is prepared for just about any adventure you can throw at it. A hybrid of sorts, this "minivan meets pickup truck" is an adaptable and capable off-roader. It was shown at this year's Tokyo Motor Show.

On either side and in the rear, the concept features "gullwing" doors (more like hatches in this case because they open up to storage not seating). The mountain bike support model, designed in collaboration with
professional cyclist Raita Suzuki, is configured to carry a pair of bikes, but the concept can also be configured as an open-bed truck capable of carrying an ATV (Daihatsu did not give details of how the conversion might work).

With its body-on-frame design and despite its compact dimensions, the Mud Master-C Concept is a true truck. A "hub reduction system" transfers driving power via gears mounted between the drive shaft and wheel hub. This, together with 16-in. off-road tires, achieves high ride height and generous angles of approach, departure, and break-over for impressive off-road driving and stream-fording capability.

The interior features a simple instrument panel with large-screen LCD multi-display. Seats are water repellent, which makes post-camping-trip cleaning a snap.

The Verdict: A minivan one day and pickup truck the next, the Mud Master-C Concept offers unique levels of utility and functional style.

Schwartzapfel, a certified car freak, has studied the automotive marketplace and worked as an advertising/marketing strategist for major manufacturers. He does not write about any car brands for which he currently works

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