Daihatsu Mira

Model Overview

The Daihatsu Mira is a long-standing Kei car (K-Car) series from Japan's Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd. (Daihatsu), positioned as an entry-level compact passenger car. Tracing its roots back to 1980, the Mira series originated from the Max model line and was initially offered in two iterations: the Cuore (passenger car) and the Mira Cuore (commercial vehicle). Following a full model change for its fourth generation in 1985, the Mira officially became an independent nameplate, going head-to-head with the Mitsubishi Minica.

Over the years, the model line has spawned numerous derivatives, with the most iconic being the Mira e:S introduced in 2011. Centred around the core philosophy of "low fuel consumption", "affordability", and "resource conservation", it was heralded as the "third-generation eco-car". The current second-generation Mira e:S debuted in May 2017, underpinned by Daihatsu's new-generation DNGA platform. As the most accessible model in Daihatsu's passenger car lineup, the Mira e:S starts from RM992,200 (inclusive of tax, as of November 2025). The lineup has also given rise to distinctive variants, including the retro-styled Mira Gino, the sporty Mira e:S GR SPORT concept, and the limited-run performance edition Mira e:S tuned by D-SPORT Racing.

Design Language

Design-wise, the Mira series has consistently stayed true to the essential Kei car principles of compact dimensions and everyday practicality. Early iterations featured a boxy two-box profile measuring 3,195 × 1,395 × 1,415 mm, available in three-door and five-door hatchback body styles.

The current Mira e:S embodies a "clean and clutter-free" design philosophy, further evolving the "essence of a compact hatchback". Up front, an elongated nose is matched with sculpted bumpers flowing outward from the doors, projecting a "sense of reassurance" and a planted, wide-stance aesthetic. Along the flanks, aerodynamically optimised pillar angles and distinct side glass styling ensure excellent outward visibility. At the rear, black garnish strips on both sides of the tailgate glass enhance aerodynamics whilst emphasising a wider visual stance.

On the sporty front, the Mira e:S GR SPORT concept sports a red exterior complemented by gloss black front bumper accents, L-shaped smoked trim with mesh-pattern air intakes, vertically oriented taillights flanked by smoked garnish, and an aggressive rear diffuser. The Mira e:S also offers optional factory chrome dress-up packages (bonnet garnish, tailgate trim, and wing mirror caps), reinterpreting the retro elegance of Showa-era executive cars through a contemporary lens.

Powertrain & Performance

The powertrain options of the Mira have evolved through multiple generations. In the early 1980s, the car was powered by a 547 cc SOHC inline-three carburetted engine, offered in both naturally aspirated and turbocharged configurations. The turbocharged variant came equipped with an air-cooled intercooler, churning out 52 PS (6,500 rpm) and 7.1 kg·m (4,000 rpm), outperforming rivals in its segment at the time.

The standard Mira e:S is powered by a Kei-car-compliant 660 cc inline-three naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 36 kW (49 PS). Power is transmitted via a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

For the performance-oriented variants, the Mira e:S Turbo concept features a KF-VET 660 cc inline-three intercooled turbocharged engine, delivering 64 PS (6,400 rpm) and 92 Nm (3,200 rpm), mated to a dedicated ECU and a 5-speed manual gearbox. This engine is hand-assembled by master Daihatsu craftsmen under strict factory-level quality control standards. The 100-unit limited-edition Mira e:S tuned by D-SPORT Racing shares this exact powertrain, tipping the scales at just 710 kg kerb weight. Meanwhile, the Mira e:S GR SPORT rides on BBS forged alloy wheels wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza RE050 performance tyres (165/50R16).

Chassis & Handling

Underpinned by the new-generation DNGA architecture, the current Mira e:S features a lightweight, high-rigidity "D-Monocoque" chassis structure. Through suspension component optimisation, extensive use of resin parts, and streamlined interior and exterior trims, overall weight is reduced by up to 80 kg over its predecessor. In terms of dimensions, it measures 3,395 mm in length, 1,475 mm in width, and 1,500 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,455 mm.

Chassis upgrades on the performance derivatives are notably more extensive. The Mira e:S tuned by D-SPORT Racing is fitted with a front limited-slip differential (Super LSD) to enhance traction and cornering agility. Its suspension and braking systems are uprated, with the front brakes upgraded from solid discs to 14-inch ventilated discs paired with dedicated brake calipers. A 6-point roll cage (featuring a dash-through design) is installed inside the cabin, substantially enhancing torsional rigidity. The Mira e:S GR SPORT concept, meanwhile, benefits from bespoke suspension tuning by Toyota Gazoo Racing.

Cabin & Features

The interior of the current Mira e:S adopts a highly functional, driver-centric design approach. The dashboard features an open pass-through storage tray alongside twin cupholders. Equipment highlights include a digital instrument cluster, push-start ignition, and keyless entry. The fleet-oriented commercial variant (B Grade) comes standard with a dedicated rear deck board, creating a completely flat boot floor when the rear bench is folded. Buyers can also opt for woodgrain or piano black interior trim packages.

Inside, the Mira e:S GR SPORT concept is equipped with a three-spoke steering wheel, integrated instrument cluster, and central infotainment display, with the gear lever repositioned closer to the driver for enhanced ergonomics. The Mira e:S tuned by D-SPORT Racing sports black steelies, bespoke D-SPORT emblems, a manual-specific centre console, and an individually numbered plaque denoting its 100-unit production run. Optional add-ons include RECARO full bucket seats, an auxiliary tachometer, and a boost gauge.

Safety & Intelligent Driving

Across the range, the current Mira e:S is equipped as standard with Daihatsu's "Smart Assist III" Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS). The suite incorporates Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), and Pedal Misoperation Control (false start suppression). Front and rear parking sensors are also standard fitment across all variants. Following an update in October 2024, standard passive and active safety features were further upgraded. Even with its track-focused enhancements, the Mira e:S tuned by D-SPORT Racing retains the full Smart Assist III suite, ensuring everyday safety remains on par with the standard model.

Market Performance & Evaluation

The Mira series continues to play a vital role in Japan's Kei car segment. Since its introduction in 2011, the Mira e:S has garnered widespread popularity due to its accessible price point and exceptional fuel economy, serving as a trusted choice for daily commuting, grocery runs, and fleet duties.

Limited to just 100 units, the Mira e:S tuned by D-SPORT Racing saw overwhelming demand with lottery applications exceeding supply by roughly 44 times, selling out instantly upon release. The limited-run model is priced at RM2,998,600 (inclusive of tax), roughly triple the cost of a standard Mira e:S. Following its high-profile premiere at the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon, the Mira e:S GR SPORT concept drew widespread acclaim, with industry insiders anticipating a production rollout by 2026.

Capitalising on its ultra-lightweight chassis, the Mira has also proven its mettle in motorsport events such as the All Japan Rally Championship, showcasing performance and dynamic capabilities far exceeding its entry-level badge. Within Daihatsu's product portfolio, the Mira remains a cornerstone nameplate that has birthed numerous iconic offshoots. The Mira e:S also shares its underlying platform with rebadged siblings, the Toyota Pixis Epoch and Subaru Pleo Plus.