Daihatsu Move Canbus: a kei class car with sliding rear doors
Daihatsu Move Canbus — a Japanese kei class car with retro styling, sliding rear doors and a 660 cm³ engine. We look at what makes it special, what trims are available and what to check when buying used.
Move Canbus in brief
The Move Canbus was introduced in September 2016 as the successor to the Move Conte. It's a high-roofed kei class car with round headlights, retro styling and a two-tone body.
Its main selling point is the sliding rear doors and spacious interior, despite its compact exterior dimensions. In Japan, kei cars are built to strict size and power limitations.
Generations
The first generation was produced from September 2016 to July 2022, the second from July 2022 onwards. The first generation mainly features 'Stripes' and 'Theory' trims with different colours and upholstery.
The second generation has a refreshed design and more modern safety features, but both variants are technically similar.
Engine and transmission
The Move Canbus has a 660 cm³ three-cylinder petrol engine with or without a turbocharger, and power is limited to the kei standard (up to 64 hp). Transmission is CVT, with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
It's an economical city car, but power is limited for longer motorway journeys.
What to check when buying a used Canbus
Check that the sliding doors operate smoothly, that there's no rust, and that the CVT works without juddering. Inspect the body for minor dents — these cars are often used in the city.
Since the car is imported from Japan, check the chassis number against the auction or documentation details and ensure it meets your country's registration requirements.
Trim levels
Trim levels vary by year; here are a few commonly found.
Stripes
First generationTwo-tone body and retro styling.
- Often — contrasting roof colour
- Often — sliding doors on both sides
- 660 cm³ engine and CVT
Theory
First generationA more basic-looking version.
- Single-colour body
- Often — simpler styling
- 660 cm³ engine and CVT
Comparison of Move Canbus versions
| Stripes | Theory | |
|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For fans of retro design | Everyday driving |
| Body | Two-tone | Single-tone |
| Engine | 660 cc | 660 cc (often turbocharged) |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | Mid-range | Mid-range |
Pick based on looks and condition — mechanically, the versions are very similar.
Pros
- Spacious interior in a compact body
- Hinged rear doors
- Economical engine
- Retro design
Cons
- Limited power on the motorway
- Rare in Europe, parts are harder to find
- Parts are imported from Japan
Frequently asked questions
What is a kei class car?
It's a popular class of small cars in Japan with restricted dimensions and up to a 660 cm³ engine, power limited to 64 HP.
How does the Canbus differ from the Move Conte?
The Canbus is the successor to the Move Conte with a retro design, rear-hinged doors, and updated technology.
Is the Canbus suitable for daily use?
Yes, especially in the city. It's slower and noisier on the motorway.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically





























