Daihatsu is the latest Japanese automaker to reveal
its lineup for this year's Tokyo Motor Show, headlined by two completely new
concepts to show the way forward for the small-car specialists.
The pretty little red sedan is called
the DN Compagno, reviving the spirit of the Vignale-designed model line
Daihatsu produced in the 1960s and powered by a 1.0-liter turbocharged engine
(though Daihatsu envisions fitting a 1.2-liter hybrid in there just the same).
The new concept takes the form of a rakish four-door
coupe, with bright metallic trim from the side sills to the roof rails to blend
the modern with the classic. Interior space prioritizes the front passengers,
but the rear seats get their own doors as well – not unlike the Mazda RX-8,
we'd surmise, but with more conventional portals.
It's joined by the DN Pro Cargo, which reaches back
even further to the 1957 Midget for inspiration and takes the form of a compact
commercial van. Looking like something out of a Pixar movie, it packs tiny
wheels and small footprint, but enough room inside for an adult to stand up
straight – as long as said adult is no taller than 5'3", which is more
than the average woman in Japan.
Along with the new DN Compagno and DN Pro Cargo,
Daihatsu has also refreshed a handful of other recent concepts for the Tokyo
show, including the DN U-Space, DN Trek, and DN Multisix. Visitors can also
expect to find on display examples of production Daihatsus like the Copen,
Hijet, Boon, Move, and Tanto.
More Picture :
DN Compagno
DN Cargo
DN U-Space
DN Trek
DN Multisix
Boon Custom