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Daihatsu Sirion: 1998–2010 compact hatchback, engines and what the buyer should know
The Daihatsu Sirion is a compact city hatchback that was offered in Europe twice (around 1998–2004 and 2004–2010). In this article, we review the generations, engines, and what to check when buying a used Sirion.
The Sirion in brief
The Sirion is a five-door compact city car with a higher seating position and practical interior. It's designed for those who need a small, economical, and easy-to-park car.
Daihatsu pulled out of the European market in 2013, so you'll mostly find first and second-generation Sirions. Later model variants are mostly sold in Asian markets under different names.
Which generation to choose
The first generation (around 1998–2004) is simpler and cheaper, but it's aging. The second generation (around 2004–2010) is more modern, has more safety features, and better comfort.
Most buyers opt for the second generation as it's newer, and its body and interior better meet current needs. The first generation might be suitable as a cheap second car.
Engines and transmissions
The Sirion comes with small petrol engines: 1.0-litre three-cylinder and 1.3-litre four-cylinder, and in the second generation also a 1.5-litre. In the first generation, a four-wheel-drive version was also offered.
The transmission is a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic. Engine power is modest, so the car is best suited to city driving and short distances.
What to check when buying a used Sirion
First and foremost — the body condition and corrosion, especially around the sills and wheel arches. Check the engine oil leaks, the service history of the timing mechanism, the clutch, and the gearbox.
Test the suspension, brakes, steering mechanism, and electrical equipment. Many cars already have high mileage, so it's important to see the service history.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the versions most commonly found in Europe.
Sirion (pirma karta)
around 1998–2004The simpler first generation with 1.0 and 1.3-litre engines.
- 1.0-litre or 1.3-litre petrol engine
- Manual or automatic gearbox
- Often — full-time four-wheel drive (in some versions)
Sirion SE
around 2004–2010The simpler second-generation trim.
- 1.0-litre or 1.3-litre engine
- Often — electrically operated windows
- Often — basic safety equipment
Sirion SX
around 2004–2010Better-equipped second-generation version.
- Often — 1.3 or 1.5 l engine
- Often — air conditioning and alloy wheels
- More comfort features
Sirion versions compared
| Pirma karta | SE | SX | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it suits | For those after an affordable city car | For daily city driving | For those seeking more comfort |
| Engine | 1.0 or 1.3 l | 1.0 or 1.3 l | 1.3 or 1.5 l |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | € | € | €€ |
Sirion — an affordable and economical city car. Choice is usually determined by generation, engine, and condition.
Pros
- Compact and easy to park
- Low fuel consumption
- Practical interior and high driving position
- Four-wheel drive available from the start
Cons
- Modest power and limited highway comfort
- Many cars have high mileage
- Parts availability has dwindled since Daihatsu left Europe
Frequently asked questions
When was the Daihatsu Sirion made?
Offered in Europe twice — roughly 1998–2004 and 2004–2010
What engines does the Sirion have?
Mostly 1.0-litre three-cylinder and 1.3-litre four-cylinder; in the second generation, also a 1.5-litre.
Does the Sirion have four-wheel drive?
A four-wheel-drive version was available in the first generation.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
