- Daihatsu updated the Mira e:S in Japan with a more efficient engine.
- Fuel economy rises to 64 MPG alongside expanded safety tech.
- Pricing for the updated kei car starts at 1,096,700 yen ($6,900).
Daihatsu has introduced a series of updates for the Mira e:S in Japan, focused on improving fuel economy and safety systems to comply with the latest local regulations. The company discontinued the entry-level trim of the kei hatchback but managed to keep its starting price at an affordable ¥1,096,700 ($6,900).
The current second-generation Mira e:S debuted in 2017. The 2026 model doesn’t bring any changes to the exterior or the interior design, instead focusing on technical upgrades. Still, Daihatsu introduced the Ceramic Green Metallic and Grace Brown Crystal Mica colors to the color palette, and added standard LED headlights on the X and X Limited trims,
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With the naturally-aspirated 660cc three-cylinder powertrain, Daihatsu managed to achieve an impressive average fuel consumption of 64 MPG (27.0 km/l or 3.7 lt/100 km) for the FWD variant, an improvement of 8% compared to its predecessor.
The “newly developed engine” also offers increased output and torque figures, although the exact figures have yet to be announced. For context, the outgoing model produced 48 hp (36 kW / 49 PS) and 57 Nm (42 lb-ft) of torque. Power is still transmitted to the front or to all four wheels (4WD) exclusively via a CVT gearbox.
Daihatsu
Safety credentials take a step forward with the addition of the latest Smart Assist driver-assistance package, following the example of other kei cars and kei trucks from the Daihatsu stable and other automakers.
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The improved collision-avoidance braking system detects crossing bicycles, oncoming vehicles when executing right turns at intersections, and pedestrians approaching from opposite directions during turns. Furthermore, nighttime pedestrian detection is standard, while the maximum operational threshold rises from 60 km/h (37 mph) to 80 km/h (50 mph).
Both front and rear start suppression systems now incorporate active brake control to reduce low-speed parking accidents. Finally, the stereo-camera system introduces Roadside Departure Warning and Sway Warning capabilities while the optional Smart Drive Recorder Upgrade Package allows it to act like a dashcam.
Daihatsu
The lineup of the Daihatsu Mira e:S has been simplified by dropping the bare-bones B trim and replacing the flagship G grade with a new X Limited. The latter builds upon the mid-tier X by adding push-button start, keyless entry, heated front seats, a height-adjustable driver seat, tilt steering, automatic climate control, and power retractable mirrors.
The starting price of the updated Mira e:S in Japan is ¥1,096,700 ($6,900) for the cheapest L trim with a FWD layout. On the other end of the spectrum, the most expensive Mira e:S X Limited with 4WD is priced at ¥1,507,000 ($9,500).
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Unfortunately, the revised lineup doesn’t include a performance-focused model like the track-ready Mira e:S that debuted earlier this year. This one was developed in collaboration with D-Sport Racing, adding a turbo engine, a manual transmission, a limited-slip differential, and a factory-installed roll cage. However, it will only be offered as a special conversion instead of being a permanent member of the range. Back in 2024, Daihatsu showed a GR-prepped Mira e:S Turbo Concept with a sporty bodykit and a turbo kit, but that has yet to reach production.