This Compact Minivan Vanished for Two Years, and Now It’s Returning with Sliding Doors | Carscoops

      The kei car was initially scheduled to launch in 2023, but due to Japan's safety scandal, Daihatsu had to delay its release.

      8 hours ago

      by Thanos Pappas

      The seventh-generation Daihatsu Move has officially premiered in Japan following a two-year postponement.

      This kei car is based on the DNGA platform and features a completely redesigned exterior, now equipped with sliding doors.

      The Move RS variant is powered by a turbo engine delivering 63 hp and boasts a sportier suspension setup.

      The wait is finally over for the Daihatsu Move. After a two-year delay prompted by a safety scandal affecting Japan’s automotive sector in 2023, Daihatsu is entering the kei car market again with a new generation of its established city car. The seventh generation of the Move showcases new styling, sliding rear doors, and a modern platform, representing a significant departure from its predecessor.

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      Since the launch of the original model in 1995, Daihatsu has sold over 3.4 million Moves. This latest version features a comprehensive redesign, utilizing the DNGA platform shared with the Hijet and Atrai light commercial vehicles. Maintaining conformity with kei car regulations, the new Move measures 3,395 mm (133.7 inches) in length, with a mildly extended wheelbase of 2,460 mm (96.9 inches).

      The addition of sliding doors significantly enhances practicality, providing this compact minivan with an important feature. This enhancement is a strategic decision, reflecting offerings from competitors such as the Honda N-Box. All trims aside from the base L grade come equipped with power sliding doors and a touch-and-go locking mechanism.

      At the front, the Move now sports a more streamlined appearance with slim headlights, a more approachable grille, and sporty bumper intakes that are more aesthetic than functional. The side profile is sharper and more sculpted, featuring defined character lines and a wraparound greenhouse. The rear showcases smaller L-shaped taillights, subtly curved rear glass, and faux triangular vents on the bumper, producing a cleaner and slightly more contemporary look.

      Daihatsu provides 13 color options along with minor variations across the different trims (grille, headlight designs, wheels) and offers additional personalization possibilities for the Move. These include exterior and interior enhancements included in the optional Dandysport and Noble Chic styles.

      Compact Yet Functional

      Inside, the cabin prioritizes utility over flair. It accommodates four passengers and emphasizes everyday practicality, with ample storage options. The front seats can fold flat and, when used in conjunction with the reclining rear bench, create a makeshift double sofa bed ideal for mid-trip rest or light camping.

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      Customers can choose from three infotainment screen sizes—7, 9, or 10 inches—all complemented by an analog instrument cluster. The gear selector is conveniently located high on the center console adjacent to the physical climate controls, maintaining simplicity and familiarity. Optional features include heated front seats, a wireless charging pad, and the Smart Assist driver-assistance system.

      Small Engine, Sporty RS Variant

      Beneath the compact hood of the Move is a 658 cc gasoline engine that complies with kei car regulations in Japan, which restrict larger displacements. The naturally aspirated engine produces 51 hp (38 kW / 52 PS), while the turbocharged variant found in the RS trim offers a more robust 63 hp (47 kW / 64 PS).

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      The Move RS is not only more powerful but also features a sportier suspension with distinctive shock absorbers and rides on 15-inch wheels. Similar to other kei cars, the Move is available in both 2WD and 4WD configurations, with all versions equipped with a CVT transmission.

      The new Daihatsu Move is now open for orders in Japan. The price begins at ¥1,358,500 ($9,500) for the base 2WD variant and reaches up to ¥2,044,000 ($14,300) for the top-tier 4WD model. Daihatsu aims to sell 6,000 units of this kei car monthly, all produced in Japan’s Oita prefecture.