DAIHATSU Cars: Complete Guide, Models & Reliability (2025)

Daihatsu is a well-established automotive brand known for its compact and efficient vehicles. With a total of 434 vehicles registered in the UK, Daihatsu has carved a niche for itself, particularly with models that cater to urban driving and practicality.

Last updated September 07, 2025 1998 words Based on real UK vehicle data

Introduction and Brand Overview

Daihatsu is a well-established automotive brand known for its compact and efficient vehicles. With a total of 434 vehicles registered in the UK, Daihatsu has carved a niche for itself, particularly with models that cater to urban driving and practicality.

The brand's top models include the Daihatsu Sirion, which accounts for 158 registrations, followed by the Terios with 122. Other notable models include the Copen and Hijet, each with 30 registrations, and the Charade with 20. This diverse range of vehicles showcases Daihatsu's commitment to providing options that meet various consumer needs.

In terms of fuel type distribution, petrol vehicles dominate the lineup, with 402 petrol registrations and an additional 18 listed as PETROL. Diesel vehicles are less common, with only 10 registrations combined, while LPG vehicles account for 2 registrations. This indicates a strong preference for petrol engines among Daihatsu owners.

The age distribution of Daihatsu vehicles in the UK reveals a significant presence of older models, with the majority registered between 2000 and 2009. Notably, 75 vehicles are from 2008, and 67 from 2007, highlighting the brand's longevity in the market.

Daihatsu vehicles have an average MOT pass rate of 78.5%, which reflects a reasonable level of reliability. However, common failures during MOT tests include issues with brakes, suspension, and lighting, indicating areas where owners may need to focus on maintenance.

All data presented is based on current registrations and MOT test statistics, and while efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, figures may vary over time. For the latest information, it is advisable to consult official sources.

Popular DAIHATSU Models

DAIHATSU has established a notable presence in the UK automotive market, with a total of 434 vehicles registered. Among these, several models stand out for their popularity and performance.

The DAIHATSU SIRION is the most popular model, accounting for 158 registrations. Known for its compact size and efficient fuel consumption, the SIRION appeals to urban drivers seeking practicality.

Following closely is the DAIHATSU TERIOS, with 122 units registered. This compact SUV offers versatility and a higher driving position, making it a favourite among those who require a bit more space without sacrificing manoeuvrability.

Other notable models include the DAIHATSU COPEN and HIJET, each with 30 registrations. The COPEN is celebrated for its unique design and convertible features, while the HIJET is a reliable choice for commercial use, known for its practicality and load capacity.

The DAIHATSU CHARADA rounds out the list with 20 registrations, showcasing the brand's long-standing appeal in the compact car segment.

In terms of fuel types, petrol vehicles dominate the DAIHATSU lineup, with 402 petrol and 18 PETROL registrations, compared to just 7 diesel and 3 DIESEL vehicles. This indicates a strong preference for petrol engines among DAIHATSU owners.

When it comes to the age of vehicles, the majority are from the 2000s, with 75 registered in 2008 and 67 in 2007. The average MOT pass rate for DAIHATSU vehicles stands at 78.5%, reflecting a reasonable level of reliability.

Common failures during MOT tests include issues with brakes, suspension, and lighting, highlighting areas where owners may need to focus on maintenance.

Data accuracy is subject to change, and the statistics presented here are based on the latest available information.

MOT Reliability and Common Issues

The reliability of Daihatsu vehicles during the MOT test is reflected in their average pass rate of 78.5%. This statistic indicates that while many Daihatsu owners maintain their vehicles well, there are still common issues that can lead to failures.

Among the 434 Daihatsu vehicles tested, the most frequently encountered problems fall into several categories. Brakes are the leading cause of failure, with a total of 659 instances recorded. This highlights the importance of regular brake maintenance to ensure safety and compliance.

Other common failures include issues classified under 'Other' (494 failures), suspension problems (445 failures), and lighting defects (439 failures). Exhaust and emissions issues also contribute significantly, with 354 failures noted. These categories represent critical areas for owners to focus on when preparing for their MOT.

In terms of vehicle distribution, the top models include the Daihatsu Sirion, with 158 vehicles tested, followed by the Terios (122), and the Copen and Hijet, each with 30. The Charade rounds out the list with 20 vehicles. Understanding which models are more prevalent can help in identifying specific issues that may arise.

Fuel type distribution shows a predominance of petrol vehicles, accounting for 402 of the total, while diesel and LPG vehicles make up a smaller fraction. This distribution may influence the types of common issues encountered during MOT tests.

It is essential for Daihatsu owners to be aware of these common issues and to address them proactively. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can significantly improve the chances of passing the MOT test. Please note that the data presented here is based on the latest available statistics and may not reflect the most current trends.

Ownership Costs and Tax Information

When considering ownership costs for a Daihatsu vehicle, it is essential to evaluate various factors, including fuel type, maintenance, and tax obligations. With a total of 434 registered vehicles in the UK, the most popular models are the Daihatsu Sirion (158 units), Terios (122 units), and Copen (30 units).

The fuel type distribution indicates a strong preference for petrol vehicles, with 402 petrol and 18 PETROL vehicles, compared to a smaller number of diesel (10 total) and LPG (2 total) options. This predominance of petrol vehicles may influence fuel costs, as petrol prices can fluctuate significantly.

In terms of maintenance, the average MOT pass rate for Daihatsu vehicles stands at 78.5%. This suggests that while many vehicles pass their tests, a notable percentage may require repairs. Common failures include issues with brakes (659 instances), suspension (445), and lighting (439), which can contribute to ongoing ownership costs.

Regarding vehicle age, the distribution shows a variety of models from different years, with the oldest being from 1989 and the newest from 2020. The age of a vehicle can impact both insurance premiums and tax rates, as older vehicles may be subject to different tax brackets.

It is also important to consider the regional distribution of Daihatsu vehicles, with all 434 units registered in Great Britain. This concentration may affect the availability of parts and service options, potentially influencing maintenance costs.

As with any vehicle, ownership costs can vary widely based on individual circumstances. It is advisable to consult with a financial advisor or automotive expert for tailored advice. Please note that the data presented here is based on the latest available statistics and may not reflect real-time changes.

Buying Guide and What to Check

Buying Guide and What to Check

When considering a used Daihatsu, it’s essential to understand the model options and their common issues. Daihatsu has a total of 434 vehicles registered, with the most popular models being the Sirion (158 units), Terios (122 units), and Copen (30 units). Each model has its unique characteristics, so it’s advisable to research which one best suits your needs.

Fuel type is another critical factor. The majority of Daihatsu vehicles are petrol, with 402 petrol vehicles and 18 classified as PETROL, alongside a small number of diesel (10 total) and LPG options. This distribution indicates a strong preference for petrol engines, which may affect your choice based on fuel economy and availability.

When inspecting a used Daihatsu, pay attention to the vehicle's age. The year distribution shows that most vehicles are from 2008 to 2009, with 75 and 28 units respectively. Older models may have more wear and tear, so consider the maintenance history and any previous repairs.

It’s also important to check the vehicle’s MOT history. The average pass rate for Daihatsu vehicles is 78.5%, which suggests that while many pass, a significant number may have issues. Common failures include brakes (659 failures), suspension (445 failures), and lighting (439 failures). These areas should be thoroughly inspected during your evaluation.

Finally, always verify the vehicle’s history and ensure it has undergone the necessary MOT tests. With a total of 6,818 MOT tests conducted, understanding the vehicle's past performance can provide insights into its reliability.

Disclaimer: Data accuracy is based on available records and may not reflect the most current statistics.

Related Information and Resources

Related Information and Resources

Daihatsu has a total of 434 vehicles registered in the UK, with the most popular models being the Sirion (158 units), Terios (122 units), and Copen (30 units). Other notable models include the Hijet and Charade, each with 30 and 20 units respectively. This distribution highlights the brand's focus on compact and versatile vehicles.

In terms of fuel types, the majority of Daihatsu vehicles are petrol-powered, with 402 petrol vehicles and an additional 18 listed as PETROL. Diesel vehicles account for 10 units, while LPG vehicles make up 2 units. This fuel distribution indicates a strong preference for petrol engines among Daihatsu owners.

The age distribution of Daihatsu vehicles shows a wide range, with models dating back to 1989. The most common years for registration are 2008 (75 vehicles), 2007 (67 vehicles), and 2009 (28 vehicles). This suggests a significant presence of older models on the road, which may require more frequent maintenance.

When it comes to vehicle safety, the average MOT pass rate for Daihatsu vehicles stands at 78.5%. This figure is derived from a total of 6,818 MOT tests conducted, indicating a reasonable level of compliance with safety standards.

Common failures during MOT tests for Daihatsu vehicles include issues with brakes (659 failures), suspension (445 failures), and lighting (439 failures). These statistics can help owners identify potential areas for maintenance and improvement.

For further information, owners and prospective buyers can consult local dealerships or online resources dedicated to Daihatsu vehicles. Please note that the data presented here is subject to change and should be verified with official sources for accuracy.

Data Source: This guide is based on analysis of thousands of DAIHATSU vehicles in our database, including MOT test results, registration data, and reliability statistics.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for guidance only and is based on historical data in our database. Always verify current vehicle details with official sources and get a professional inspection before purchase.

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