DAIHATSU'S ever-popular Hijet has been voted Best Microvan 2003 by commercial vehicle experts from What Van? magazine.

This is a record eleventh year in succession that the 1.3 litre petrol/LPG workhorse has carried off the golden prize.

The prestigious Van Of The Year awards cover 13 categories aimed at advising everyone from small businessmen to major fleet buyers on the best LCV for their needs.

Priced at just £5,995 as either a van or pick-up (excluding VAT, road tax or first registration charge), the Hijet was praised for its value, visibility, manoeuvrability and practical features.

As magazine editor Neil Mclntee said: “One of the van’s big plus points is the ease of access to the 2.9 cubic metres load bay. There is a sliding door on each side and a big hatch-type door at the back. It offers useful shelter when you are working at the rear in the rain.”