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Daihatsu Taft: the old off-roader and the new mini SUV
Daihatsu Taft — a model name used for two very different cars: a small off-roader produced since 1974 and a Japanese mini SUV sold since 2020. We look at both generations and what buyers need to know.
The Taft in brief
The original Taft was a compact, rugged off-roader with a body-on-frame construction and four-wheel drive, designed for tough terrain and hard work. It had a basic interior and often came with a canvas or hardtop roof.
The new Taft (since 2020) is a completely different beast — a boxy mini SUV sold mainly in Japan and belonging to the 'kei' class. It features a large glass roof, plenty of safety kit, and compact dimensions.
Which generation — and how do they differ?
The old Taft is now a rare and simple classic off-roader. It requires careful body and chassis checks, and parts can often be hard to find.
The new Taft is most commonly found in Lithuania as a right-hand-drive import from Japan. It's city-friendly, economical, and easy to park, but it's small and not particularly powerful.
Engines and gearboxes
The new Taft comes with a 660 cm³ three-cylinder petrol engine — either naturally aspirated or turbocharged. Power is limited due to 'kei' class restrictions, and the gearbox is an automatic with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Both front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive versions are available.
The old Taft used simple petrol and diesel engines along with manual gearboxes. Always check specific details against the car's documents.
What to check when buying a used Taft
If you're buying a new Taft from Japan, check the auction sheet, mileage records, and body condition. Right-hand drive cars require some getting used to, and some features may be tailored only for the Japanese market.
Inspect an older Taft for rust, check the frame, suspension, and operation of all-wheel drive. In newer models, look at the air conditioning, multimedia, and safety systems.
Note that 'kei' class cars in Europe often have specific registration requirements.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the versions most commonly found in Europe.
Taft (senasis)
From 1974First-generation SUV.
- Body-on-frame construction
- All-wheel drive
- Basic interior trim
Taft X
From 2020The main version of the new Taft.
- 660 cm³ petrol engine
- CVT gearbox
- Often — simpler equipment
Taft G
From 2020Higher trim level.
- More comfort and safety features
- Often — a large glass roof
- CVT gearbox
Taft G Turbo
From 2020Version with a turbocharger.
- 660 cm³ turbo engine
- More dynamic driving
- Often — more equipment
Comparison of versions
| Senasis Taft | Taft X | Taft G | Taft G Turbo | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For fans of classic SUVs | For city use | For comfort and equipment | For more dynamic driving |
| Engine | Varies by version | 660 cm³ | 660 cm³ | 660 cm³ with turbo |
| Gearbox | Four-wheel drive | Front or four-wheel drive | Front or four-wheel drive | Front or four-wheel drive |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | Mid-range | Mid-range | Mid-range | High-end |
If you're after a straightforward classic 4x4, go for the old Taft. If you need a compact, modern city car, check out the new Taft, but pay attention to import and registration requirements.
Pros
- Compact dimensions and easy parking
- The new Taft offers plenty of safety and comfort features
- Unusual, distinctive styling
- The old Taft boasts a robust body-on-frame construction
Cons
- The New Taft — low power and limited speed
- Parts and registration issues for imported cars
- The Old Taft — rust and outdated tech
Frequently asked questions
Is the Daihatsu Taft a true 4x4?
The Old Taft was a genuine 4x4 with a ladder frame, while the new one is a mini SUV, with some versions offering all-wheel drive.
What engine does the New Taft have?
A 660 cm³ three-cylinder petrol engine — naturally aspirated or turbocharged.
Is the Taft sold in Europe?
The New Taft is mostly sold in Japan, so in Lithuania it's only available as an imported car.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
