The Daihatsu Move is a small Japanese car built for tight spaces and fuel efficiency

The Daihatsu Move is a kei car — a Japanese vehicle category for cars under specific size and engine limits. It measures about 3.4 meters long and 1.5 meters wide, making it roughly the size of a Honda Fit or Toyota Yaris, but designed specifically for Japan's narrow streets and small parking spaces. The Move has been in production since 1995 and remains one of Daihatsu's most popular models.

The car comes with a small engine, usually between 660cc and 1.0 liters, and front-wheel drive. Most versions are automatic transmissions. The Move prioritizes interior space over power — it has a tall, boxy shape that gives passengers more headroom and cargo room than a sedan of similar length. Fuel economy typically ranges from 20 to 30 miles per gallon depending on the engine size and driving conditions.

Daihatsu is owned by Toyota, so parts and service follow Toyota's network in most countries. The Move is sold primarily in Japan, Southeast Asia, and some African markets. It is not sold new in the United States or Europe, though used imports do appear in those regions.

Key Takeaways

  • The Daihatsu Move is a kei car designed for compact urban driving, with a boxy shape that maximizes interior space in a small footprint.
  • Engine sizes range from 660cc to 1.0 liters, and most models use automatic transmission with front-wheel drive.
  • Fuel economy is typically 20 to 30 miles per gallon, making it economical for city driving and short commutes.
  • The Move is sold primarily in Japan and Southeast Asia; it is not available new in North America or Europe.
  • Service and parts are available through Toyota dealers in most markets where the Move is sold.

Engine options and what they mean for performance

Most Daihatsu Move models sold in Japan come with a 660cc three-cylinder engine, which is the legal limit for kei cars in Japan. This engine produces roughly 50 to 60 horsepower and is designed for city driving rather than highway speed. Acceleration is modest, and the car reaches highway speeds slowly, but fuel consumption is very low.

Some markets outside Japan receive a 1.0-liter version with around 70 to 80 horsepower, which offers better acceleration and highway performance. This engine is still small by global standards but noticeably more responsive than the 660cc version. The trade-off is slightly higher fuel consumption and a higher purchase price.

Both engines are paired with either a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or a traditional automatic. The CVT is more common in newer models and delivers smoother acceleration, while older models may have four-speed automatics. Manual transmissions are rare on the Move.

Interior space and practicality for daily use

The Move's tall, boxy design creates more usable interior space than a traditional sedan of the same length. Headroom is generous, and the rear seats fold flat to create a large cargo area — useful for shopping, moving small items, or carrying luggage. The rear doors open wide, making it easier to load children or cargo compared to lower-slung cars.

Seating is comfortable for short trips around town, though the seats are firmer than luxury cars and long highway drives can feel tiring. The steering is light and responsive, which makes parking and maneuvering in tight spaces much easier than in larger vehicles. The turning radius is tight, a major advantage in congested urban areas.

Climate control, power windows, and basic infotainment systems are standard on most models, though features vary by year and trim level. Older models may have manual windows and basic air conditioning, while newer versions include touchscreen displays and smartphone integration.

Fuel economy and running costs

The Daihatsu Move typically achieves 20 to 30 miles per gallon in mixed driving, with highway driving on the lower end and city driving on the higher end. The 660cc engine is more efficient than the 1.0-liter version. Real-world fuel economy depends on driving habits, road conditions, and whether the car is carrying a full load.

Insurance costs for the Move are generally low because the car is inexpensive to repair and has a good safety record in its market. Maintenance costs are modest — oil changes, filter replacements, and routine service are straightforward and affordable. Parts are inexpensive in Japan and Southeast Asia, though importing parts to other regions can add cost.

Registration and tax costs vary by country and region. In Japan, kei cars receive favorable tax treatment compared to larger vehicles, which is one reason the Move is so popular there. Outside Japan, registration costs depend on local rules and the car's age and engine size.

Safety features and crash test ratings

Older Daihatsu Move models were not tested by major crash test organizations like NHTSA or Euro NCAP, so detailed safety ratings are not available for many years. Newer models include airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control as standard, which are the baseline safety features expected in modern cars.

The Move's small size means it offers less metal and distance between the occupants and an impact compared to larger vehicles. This is a real disadvantage in a collision with a larger car. However, the Move's light weight and modest power mean it is less likely to be involved in high-speed accidents in the first place.

If you are considering a used Move, check the specific model year for the safety features included. Newer models (2010 and later) are significantly safer than older ones due to improvements in airbag design, structural rigidity, and electronic safety systems.

Where the Daihatsu Move is sold and how to find one

The Move is sold new primarily in Japan, where it is one of the top-selling kei cars. It is also available new in some Southeast Asian countries including Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. Daihatsu dealers in these regions can provide information about current models, pricing, and financing options.

In North America and Europe, the Move is not sold new, but used imports are available through specialty importers and used car dealers. Importing a used Move from Japan involves shipping, customs clearance, and local registration — costs and complexity vary by country. Some regions have restrictions on importing older vehicles or vehicles that do not meet local emissions standards.

If you are looking for a used Move outside its primary markets, research local import regulations and find a dealer or importer with experience bringing Japanese kei cars into your country. Verify that the car can be registered and insured where you live before committing to a purchase.

Comparing the Move to similar small cars

The Daihatsu Move competes with other kei cars in Japan, including the Honda N-Box, Suzuki Spacia, and Mitsubishi eK Wagon. All of these are boxy, tall cars designed for maximum interior space in a small footprint. The Move is generally considered more affordable than the N-Box and offers similar practicality.

Outside Japan, the Move's closest competitors are small hatchbacks like the Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, and Hyundai i10. These cars are slightly larger and more powerful than the Move, but less fuel-efficient. The Move is narrower and shorter, making it better suited to very tight urban spaces, while these competitors offer more power and highway comfort.

If you are choosing between a Move and a traditional small sedan or hatchback, consider your priorities. The Move excels at parking, fuel economy, and interior space for its size. Traditional small cars offer more power, better highway performance, and more cargo space without sacrificing interior room.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy a new Daihatsu Move in the United States?

No, Daihatsu does not sell the Move new in the United States. The company does not currently import any vehicles to the U.S. market. Used imports are available through specialty dealers, but importing involves significant costs and regulatory compliance.

How reliable is the Daihatsu Move?

The Move has a solid reputation for reliability in Japan and Southeast Asia, where it has been in production for nearly 30 years. Common issues in older models include transmission wear and rust in humid climates. Newer models are more durable, but long-term reliability data outside Japan is limited because the car is less common there.

What is the difference between a kei car and a regular small car?

Kei cars are a Japanese category with legal limits on size, engine displacement, and power. They receive favorable tax and insurance treatment in Japan. Regular small cars like the Honda Fit have no such restrictions and are larger and more powerful. Kei cars are designed specifically for Japan's narrow roads and parking spaces.

Is the Daihatsu Move good for highway driving?

The Move is adequate for highway driving but not ideal. The small engine accelerates slowly, and the car can feel underpowered at highway speeds. Wind and road noise are noticeable at 65+ mph. It is better suited to city driving and short trips than long-distance highway travel.

How much does a used Daihatsu Move cost?

Prices vary widely depending on age, mileage, condition, and location. In Japan, used Moves typically range from $3,000 to $8,000 depending on year and condition. Imported used models in other countries cost more due to shipping and import fees, often $5,000 to $12,000 or higher.