From the 1990 IP Commuter brochure, UK market
(Printed in Mamaya, August of 1989)
Since 1966, the IP Commuter have provided economical, reliable and practical transport, suited for people in the need for an economy car, not a cheap car. Millions of people have sworn by their Commuters, making it our most popular model ever. Because of that, we feel a great responsibility when it is time to release a new generation Commuter. Now for 1990 it is time to do it for the fourth time, and we can tell you, replacing a legend is not an easy task. But after years of research, development and testing, we feel that the new Commuter series lives up to its name. It is easier and more comfortable to drive, thanks to an all new rear suspension and power steering as standard. It is safer, featuring things like better engineered crumple zones, a more extensively padding of the interior, seat mounted belt anchors and an improved steering column. It handles better with a more refined tuning of the suspension and the new semi-independent torsion axle in the rear. It is more economical with all models featuring our advanced 3 valve per cylinder engines.
But the most important thing is still up to you to decide as a customer. Will you still like it?
We don’t want to brag, but judging by our experiences of making cars for over 40 years, we are convinced that you will like it even more than the earlier Commuters!
The Urback may be the lowest priced model in the Commuter series, but it is by no means a cheap car. One proof of that is found under the bonnet. The 1.4 litre engine is featuring things like 3 valves per cylinder, multi point fuel injection and a catalytic converter, making it a peppy, smooth, economical and clean powerplant. Contributing to the economy and the joy of driving is the 5 speed manual gearbox (4 speed computer controlled automatic is available at extra cost). Other features proving that this economical car ain’t just a cheap car is the power steering, standard cassette radio, contoured bucket seat with durable cloth and vinyl upholstery front and rear, adjustable front seatbelts, sporty 3-spoke leatherette steering wheel and crash resistant bumpers.
But the greatest reward of owning an Urback is what we are hinting about in its name. Its short overall length and standard power steering makes it a joy in crowded urban areas. And despite the short overall length, with the rear seats folded flat, the square and upright shape of the back almost makes it into a little van that can carry amounts of cargo that would make some bigger cars jealous. And if you want to carry some cargo but still needs room for one passenger in the back, you can make one of the rear seats stay in place while folding the other one. It’s a flexible, nimble, economical, fun and clever car for the modern urban resident. And speaking of modern, the proven reliability of the Commuter means that there is a chance of you keeping it into the 21st century. Maybe that’s the most clever part of them all?
(To read about the earlier Commuter models, as well as a fair bit of company history, click here)