The new Daihatsu TAFT which first appeared as a concept at Tokyo Auto Salon earlier this year has been officially launched in Japan. Daihatsu, which is the biggest rivals of small car maker Suzuki in Japan has positioned the crossover style kei car against the Suzuki Hustler in Japanese domestic market.
Related: All New 2020 Suzuki Hustler Launched in Japan
Although the Taft moniker was first used on a 4×4 SUV introduced back in 1974, where it stood for Tall Almighty Four-wheel Touring vehicle. Since the new one will be offered as a front-wheel drive model (with optional all-wheel drive, as is usual in Japan), the acronym has been changed to Tall Almighty Fun Tool.
2020 Daihatsu TAFT
The design features octagonal headlights and a beefy bumper, boxy black plastic fender flares, skid plates and an upright glasshouse with squarish side windows. The Taft comes with a large glass sunroof and a “flat, easy-to-use luggage space” for enhanced practicality. Inside, there is a blocky dashboard with vertically oriented orange-trimmed air vents. The center console gets an orange rectangle surrounding the horizontally oriented air vents & gear lever whereas a touchscreen display panel sits on top.
Interior of Daihatsu TAFT
Powering the TAFT are two 660cc engine options– a naturally aspirated unit delivering 51 hp of power and 60 Nm of torque, while the turbocharged version produces 62 hp of power and 100 Nm of peak torque. Both variants are equipped with a CVT transmission whereas buyers can choose between a FWD and 4WD drivetrain.
Related: Bestselling Cars in Japan- Q1 2020
Built on Daihatsu New Global Architecture (DNGA) platform, the TAFT measures 3,395 mm long, 1,475 mm wide and 1,630 mm tall while its 190 mm ground clearance, 27 degree approach angle and 58 degree departure angle makes it a capable off-roader. Safety features in addition to airbags & ABS include lane departure warning, lane keep function & the ability to recognize certain road signs (maximum speed, stop, and no entry etc).
2020 Daihatsu TAFT
The 2020 Daihatsu Taft in Japan is priced from 1,353,000 yen (PKR 21.37 lac).
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
wpDiscuz
