Diahatsu’s proud and innovative history has often been overshadowed by that of its long-time collaborator and parent company, Toyota, but the Japanese compact car manufacturer has continued to endear itself to consumers worldwide.
Few people know that the 1965 Daihatsu Compagno was in fact the first Japanese car to be marketed and sold in the UK, and it’s that type of legacy that has kept the brand around for this long.
Although the brand is no longer sold here, South Africans are very familiar with the spritely Charade hatchback - and who could forget the off-road giant killer, the Daihatsu Terios? You might have even spotted a Daihatsu Copen roadster, with its bug eyes and brave styling, and yet more South Africans will know the Gran Max, arguably the cutest bakkie on our roads today.
Thanks to Imperial Auto, South African Daihatsu vehicles are still serviced at dozens of dealerships countrywide, meaning there are plenty of top-quality Daihatsu cars to choose from!