2025 Daihatsu Move

The New Move

After a brief hiatus, Daihatsu is gearing up to launch the 2025 Move. This marks a fresh start following its predecessor’s discontinuation in 2023. The delay in release was attributed to a safety testing scandal that rocked the automotive world, causing Daihatsu and other Japanese automakers to pause and review their operations.

Design Updates

The next-generation Move takes a modern design approach with sleeker lines and a new face featuring slimmer LED headlights and a wider grille. These elements aim to give it a more aggressive look. A significant functionality boost comes from the new sliding rear doors, enhancing practicality—especially for urban drivers who value easy ingress and egress in tight spaces. The vehicle also sports a wraparound greenhouse with darkened pillars and an extended rear window, emphasizing its compact kei car heritage.

Engine Specs

The Move continues with Daihatsu’s DNGA platform, which it’s sharing with other popular models in the Toyota and Daihatsu lineup. Buyers will have the chance to choose between a naturally aspirated and a turbocharged engine, alongside mild hybrid technology options aimed at providing improved fuel efficiency. Both front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations will cater to varying driving preferences.

Pricing and Release

Pricing will start at approximately $8,800 for the base Move L trim, a tempting entry-level price for cost-conscious drivers. The fully loaded RS model with all-wheel drive and turbocharged engine can be expected to set buyers back about $13,500.

On the Road

Driving the Move is expected to be a balance of ease and agility. Kei cars like the Move are especially suited for East Asian markets where compactness and efficiency are paramount, but the same characteristics can make them appealing in crowded American cities. While power won’t be its primary appeal, the anticipated blend of nimble handling, economical driving, and all-around functionality is what kei car enthusiasts look forward to.

Overall, the new Daihatsu Move aims to offer a pragmatic blend of style and substance, enhanced by a much-needed design refresh. Considering its past success, this next-gen model is expected to further cement its legacy by capturing the hearts of urban drivers who prioritize practicality without compromising on modern features.