Daihatsu debuts new Tanto microcar for Japanese market

On Thursday Daihatsu debuted its fully redesigned third-generation Tanto microcar in Japan. It is the company’s latest offering in an increasingly contested market for kei cars, which recently topped 40 percent market share in Japan.

The new model was launched in conjunction with the Tanto Custom, technically a separate model but in practice more like a higher-spec version with upgraded standard equipment and optional turbocharging. 

Base versions will be powered by Daihatsu’s 660cc, 12-valve inline-three, capable of 51 horsepower at 6,800 rpm and 44 pound-feet of torque. Turbocharged variants of the same engine will output 63-horsepower and 68 pound-feet. Both engine options are available in either front- or all-wheel-drive and the sole transmission choice is a CVT.

Non-turbocharged versions can achieve 65.8 mpg according to Japanese driving cycles. Used primarily as city cars, the Tanto boasts a turning radius of 14.4 feet. Use of resin in the hood, front fenders and back door drop the curb weight to 2,028 pounds.

The starting price at current exchange rates range from $12,010 for the base Tanto 2WD to $17,974 for the fully loaded turbocharged Tanto Custom 4WD. Daihatsu expects sales of about 12,000 per month.

Daihatsu has long been a leader in kei car sales, and the Tanto has been a class leader since its debut in 2003. Toyota owns a majority stake in Daihatsu. There are no plans for US export.<![CDATA[
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