This Mud Master Concept from the fertile minds at Daihatsu is an intriguing blend of tiny panel van, and monster SUV, a sure-fire winner for the halls of the Tokyo Motor Show.

The Daihatsu concept uses the old-school recipe of compact dimensions and lightweight to achieve off-road competency. Portal axles use a system of gears between the axleshaft and the wheel hub to efficiently transfer power when the going gets, well, muddy, and increase ground clearance.

(Click on the thumbnails below to launch a gallery of Mud Master-C images or on the jump to read more about the Daihatsu concept van.)

In addition to being one letter change away from a profitable sponsorship partner, the Mud Master-C takes a cool approach to approachable off-roading. Using durable and lightweight body-on-frame construction, the master of mud can combine various attachments to maximize its utility while working in the rough.

The gullwing apertures on the sides make for easy loading and unloading of equipment, or in this case mountain bikes. While the winged doors do seem tremendously huge on such a small van, we would like to think that Daihatsu has engineered in rigidity sufficient to cope with the 4x4 pretensions.

All in all a cool, throwback sort of concept vehicle, we want to know what you think about the tough and tiny Mud Master-C. Let us hear you in ‘comments’.

MUD MASTER-C (Mud Master-Concept)

This small, tough transporter leverages compactness and light weight for special off-road agility and adopts body-on-frame construction for outstanding durability and cargo capability. This mountain bike support model was designed in collaboration with the leading professional cyclist, Raita Suzuki.
— A hub reduction system, which transfers driving power via gears mounted between the drive shaft and wheel hub, together with large-diameter 16-inch off-road tires, achieves 370mm ride height and generous angles of approach, departure and breakover for outstanding off-road drivability and stream-fording capability.
— The body uses highly durable, lightweight and compact body-on-frame construction. A range of attachments can be combined for a variety of applications, from outdoor sports to work in rough terrain.
— Large gullwing doors on three sides give the MUD MASTER-C great convenience, ideal for loading and unloading bicycles in the "mountain bike support" model.
— Full-cabin styling creates a strong presence.
— The interior features a simple instrument panel with large-screen LCD multi-display and the water-repellent seats, reflecting the car's rugged image.