THE importer of Daihatsu has vowed to turn round the fortunes of the Japanese small-car marque in the UK, with new products leading the way. Daihatsu will be included in a fleet sales push under International Motors' custodianship.

The import and distribution acquisition has also meant a group management shake-up: managing director Ed Swatman has been promoted to chief executive officer, while sales director Sam Burton becomes managing director of Subaru (UK) and Isuzu (UK).

Andrew Edmiston heads Daihatsu (UK) as managing director and he has formed a new management team and relocated the operation from Dover to West Bromwich.

Daihatsu unveiled the 1.3-litre YRV micro wagon at this year's Geneva Motor Show, which it plans to launch into the UK later this year (FNN March 10), and it is also to expand its Sirion range with a 1.3-litre version. A six-seat compact MPV is also planned.

Six Subaru, Isuzu and Daihatsu corporate ride and drive days are being run by importer International Motors this summer at Silverstone, Donington and Knockhill circuits, and 70 guests from predominantly small fleets and contract hire companies are expected to attend each as part of a nationwide drive to boost sales.