THE F word - or rather words - feature heavily in the promotional blurb for the new look Daewoo Tacuma.
Really! Not those kind of words. We are talking functionality, flexibility and fun here.
Because the Tacuma is a state-of-the-art compact MPV aimed at young families who appreciate the versatility of a conventional people carrier, but who don't want to drive a bus.
I particularly appreciated that it really is an easy, comfortable, light drive. Some of its competitors in this segment can be a trifle hard work at times, and I've ended up with aching shoulders. Not so the Tacuma.
And it really does have a refreshing new look, in much the same way the company does, now it is GM Daewoo. There is more to its recent makeover than a few knobs and buttons, however.
The latest Tacuma has a new grille-style for the front of the car, providing a fresh face, and includes revisions to the associated body mouldings, providing a 'family likeness' to Daewoo's Kalos supermini.
The interior sees the introduction of an attractive new Flag Grey seat trim on several models, while a new metallic Light Opal Grey joins the colour choice.
Another new item for 2004 is a battery saver function that automatically switches off the headlamps when the key is removed from the ignition and the door is shut.
Taking three years from concept to reality, the Tacuma reflects how quickly Daewoo has been able to react to market trends.
Developed as a recreational saloon, the Tacuma is seen as an active and flexible partner combining the practicality of a multi-purpose vehicle with the comfort of an executive four door.
It features three individual folding and removable rear seats, a swivelling front passenger seat and lots of stowage space, even under the floor. Passengers get plenty of space, the cabin is light and airy and travelling in the Tacuma is travelling in style.
Incidentally, the name Tacuma is derived from an Afrikaans word meaning a 'joyful lifestyle' and, thinking about it, the car pretty much suits its name.
Although the vehicle was conceived in Korea, its chassis dynamics and styling were both heavily influenced by technical partners including Porsche, Giugiaro and Pininfarina.
Nor has the design been compromised by being based on an existing chassis. The Tacuma uses a unique platform, which helps give it class-leading legroom and luggage capability.
The range is powered by 1.6 and two-litre engines, and there is an option of automatic transmission with the latter.
The car's exterior style is bold yet contemporary and the interior modern and functional. Ergonomics are good with all controls falling easily to hand and the practicality of the interior makes it very family friendly.
Those folding or removable rear seats, a 180-degree swivelling front passenger seat and plenty of cup holders and storage space, even in compartments under the rear floor and front seats, make it extremely versatile.
There are four versions in the range and my SX test car was powered by a perky, 16-valve 1.6-litre engine
Officially you can get 103mph out of it, but more impressive, particularly for families with economy in mind, is it's fuel consumption. Daewoo figures show it ekes out 42.2mpg on the extra urban cycle and 34mpg on the combined
FAST FACTS
Daewoo Tacuma SX 1.6
Price: £11,995
Mechanical: 103bhp, 1,598cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via 5-spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 103mph
0-62mph: 12.2secs
Combined mpg: 34
Insurance group: 8
CO2 emissions: 208g/km
BiK rating: 27%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60, 000miles; 6yrs anti-rust