Daihatsu
Master of the Mini: The Art of Maximum Efficiency in Minimal Space
Introduction
Daihatsu’s entire philosophy is built on a simple, brilliant premise: ultimate efficiency. As Japan’s oldest vehicle manufacturer, they didn’t try to compete with giants like Toyota on power or luxury. Instead, they became the undisputed masters of the Kei car (light automobile) segment, specializing in creating incredibly space-efficient, fuel-sipping, and often surprisingly clever and fun small cars that perfectly cater to dense urban environments and strict regulations.
| Detail | Information |
| Founded | 1907 (as Hatsudoki Seizo Co., Ltd.) |
| Parent Company | Toyota Motor Corporation (majority stake) |
| HeadQuarters | Ikeda, Osaka, Japan |
| Core Expertise | Kei cars, microcars, compact vehicles |
| First Car | Daihatsu Three-Wheeler (1930) |
| Known For | Ultimate space utilization, innovative small cars |
Iconic Daihatsu Engines
- EF-DET: 0.66L Turbocharged I3 (Cuore L200, Mira TR-XX). The quintessential high-performance Kei car engine. Tiny, turbocharged, and built for surprising speed within strict displacement limits.
- JB-DET: 0.66L Turbocharged I3 (Copen). The modern successor, powering the iconic mini-roadster with a turbocharged punch.
- CB Series (CB-60/70/80): 1.0L-1.3L I4 (Charade, Sirion). Reliable, economical, and lightweight naturally aspirated engines that powered Daihatsu’s global models.
- HD-E: 0.8L-1.0L I3 (Various Kei cars). The workhorse of the Daihatsu lineup, found in countless efficient and practical Kei cars and vans.
Legendary Daihatsu Models
- Daihatsu Copen (2002-Present): The ultimate Kei roadster. A tiny, front-wheel-drive convertible with a folding hardtop and a turbocharged engine. A masterpiece of packaging and fun.
- Daihatsu Charade (1977-2000): Daihatsu’s global superstar. A simple, reliable, and economical supermini. The GTTI version with a turbocharged 1.0L 3-cylinder engine is a cult classic.
- Daihatsu Mira (1980-Present): The definitive Kei car. Also known as the Cuore or Domino in other markets, it represents decades of refining the perfect city car.
- Daihatsu Hijet (1960-Present): The iconic Kei truck. A tiny, ultra-utilitarian pickup and van that is a common sight on farms and in narrow city streets across Japan and the world.
- Daihatsu Move (1995-Present): A “tall boy” Kei car. Pioneered the high-roof, cab-forward design that maximizes interior space within the tiny Kei car dimensions.
- Daihatsu Rocky (1989-2002): A compact, rugged, and simple 4×4 SUV. A capable and affordable off-roader that was sold in various markets.
The Kei Car Specialists
Daihatsu’s entire existence is a masterclass in working within constraints. Japan’s Kei car regulations strictly limit overall size, engine displacement (660cc), and power output. Daihatsu didn’t see this as a limitation but as an engineering challenge. They became artists of packaging, designing cars that feel spacious inside despite a tiny footprint, and engines that deliver peppy performance while sipping fuel. This hyper-specialization made them a leader in a uniquely Japanese automotive art form.