Daihatsu has quietly unveiled a surprisingly capable performance version of its Mira e:S kei car, developed in collaboration with D-Sport Racing. The model, showcased at the Tokyo Auto Salon, combines a turbocharged engine, manual transmission, and a factory-installed roll cage—all wrapped in the unassuming styling of the base vehicle.
Understated Approach to Performance
Unlike many performance cars that rely on aggressive body kits and flashy badging, the modified Mira e:S maintains a deliberately low-key presence. It uses the standard model’s halogen headlights and black steel wheels, ensuring it blends into traffic rather than standing out. This design choice highlights Daihatsu’s approach: raw performance without the need for ostentation.
Track-Ready Features
The interior reveals the car’s true nature with a standard six-point roll cage, accommodating four passengers while ensuring safety on the track. The uninspiring CVT found in the production model has been replaced with a five-speed manual gearbox, offering a more engaging driving experience.
Copen-Derived Power
Under the hood is a 660 cc turbocharged three-cylinder engine borrowed from the Daihatsu Copen, producing 64 hp (48 kW / 65 PS) and 92 Nm (68 lb-ft) of torque. Despite these modest figures, the Mira e:S’s lightweight construction—between 650 and 740 kg (1,433–1,631 lbs)—yields an impressive power-to-weight ratio.
Enhanced Handling and Braking
D-Sport Racing further equipped the car with a limited-slip differential and ventilated disc brakes on the front axle, ensuring optimal traction and stopping power. The modifications were validated through rigorous testing in 10-hour endurance events, demonstrating the model’s durability and reliability.
Accessibility and Market Availability
Daihatsu plans to sell this special edition Mira e:S through SPK as a complete, road-legal vehicle. While official pricing has not been announced, it’s expected to remain affordable, aligning with Daihatsu’s mission of making driving enjoyable for everyone. The base model starts at around $6,500, and even with the added performance upgrades, the price should remain competitive.
This isn’t just a novelty; it’s a demonstration of how Daihatsu is blending practicality with genuine driving fun in a segment often overlooked by performance enthusiasts.
