4 Differences Between Toyota and Daihatsu Cars That You Must Understand

Toyota and Daihatsu have long been the preferred car brands among Indonesians. Both offer reliable vehicles and a comfortable driving experience. If you are currently in the market for a car, these two names might come to mind. To help you decide which one suits you better, here are the key differences between Toyota and Daihatsu vehicles!

Differences Between Toyota and Daihatsu Cars

1. History

Toyota has established itself as one of the global automotive giants since its founding in 1937. Known for its commitment to quality and innovation, Toyota has successfully produced vehicles that are not only reliable but also long-lasting. This reputation has made Toyota cars a favorite among consumers seeking vehicles with good resale value and the ability to perform well over long periods.

On the other hand, Daihatsu, a Japanese automotive company founded in 1907, has solidified its position as a manufacturer of small and compact vehicles. Daihatsu’s focus on this segment has earned it a strong reputation in Asian markets, particularly in countries with diverse road conditions and limited parking spaces. Daihatsu cars are widely recognized for their economical and practical nature, with high fuel efficiency and compact yet functional designs.

Also Read: Toyota Car Credit Requirements that You Need to Know in 2024

2. Technology

Toyota is renowned for its robust build quality and technological innovations, continuously delivering vehicles that are safe and comfortable. With advanced features such as Toyota Safety Sense, Toyota cars provide maximum protection for both drivers and passengers. 

Additionally, the integration of modern technology, including intuitive entertainment systems, automatic climate control, and eco-friendly hybrid options, enhances the user experience. This combination of quality and technology makes Toyota an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and modern vehicle.

In contrast, Daihatsu focuses on functional and practical technology. The technology embedded in Daihatsu cars typically emphasizes driving comfort and safety without compromising reliability. In other words, Daihatsu offers an appealing option for those looking for quality cars at affordable prices.

3. Fuel Efficiency

Toyota is known for its powerful engine performance and impressive fuel efficiency. Its models offer a variety of engine choices, ranging from refined conventional gasoline engines to advanced hybrid technology. This combination results in responsive driving performance and fuel-efficient consumption, making Toyota a great choice for those seeking balanced performance and environmentally friendly options.

Comparatively, Daihatsu is recognized as a manufacturer that prioritizes efficiency and practicality. With responsive small-capacity engines, Daihatsu vehicles provide adequate performance for daily activities. Their compact and lightweight design, along with fuel-saving technology, makes Daihatsu an excellent choice for those seeking economical vehicles.

4. Exterior Design

In terms of exterior design, Daihatsu generally features a more aggressive look with grilles equipped with fog lamps, giving a luxurious and sporty impression. Meanwhile, Toyota typically adopts a more minimalist approach, relying on chrome accents at the front to create an elegant and modern feel. These differences reflect two distinct design characters, both of which appeal to consumers with diverse preferences.

Comparison Based on Specific Models

Beyond general comparisons, it’s also important to compare Toyota and Daihatsu vehicles based on specific models that target similar market segments. Here are some detailed comparisons:

1. Toyota Raize and Daihatsu Rocky

Despite being born from a collaboration between Daihatsu and Toyota and sharing the same platform (TNGA and DNGA), the Toyota Raize and Daihatsu Rocky have distinct visual identities. The exterior design of both vehicles offers unique characteristics.

The Toyota Raize features a sportier look with a large trapezoidal grille and bold design lines, while the Daihatsu Rocky adopts a simpler appearance, more reminiscent of the Datsun model. These differences extend beyond the grille, with the Raize having thinner front lights compared to the Rocky.

2. Toyota Rush and Daihatsu Terios

Although they share the same platform, there are significant differences in terms of variants, design, and features. The Toyota Rush is available in 4 variants, while the Daihatsu Terios offers more options with 9 variants. In terms of exterior design, the Terios tends to use more chrome accents, giving it a more luxurious feel. Both models can accommodate up to 7 passengers, and are equipped with a 1,500 cc engine producing the same power and torque. Both the Rush and Terios come with standard safety features such as ABS, EBD, and VSC.

3. Toyota Calya and Daihatsu Sigra

The Toyota Calya is powered by a 1.197 cc 3NR engine, featuring Dual VVT-i technology and a 4-cylinder inline configuration. This combination produces a maximum power of 88 PS at 6,000 RPM and peak torque of 11kgm at 4,200 RPM.

Meanwhile, the Daihatsu Sigra offers two engine options: the 1KR-VE 1,000 cc 3-cylinder engine for the D and M variants, and the 1,200 cc 3NR-VE engine for the R and X variants. The 1.0-liter engine delivers 66 horsepower with a maximum torque of 89 Nm, while the 1.2-liter engine produces 87 HP and 108 Nm of torque.

These comparisons illustrate the differences between Toyota and Daihatsu in general, as well as in terms of specific models targeting similar market segments. Both Toyota and Daihatsu are excellent choices for those seeking reliable and comfortable vehicles. Each brand offers a variety of models and types, ensuring that you can find a car that meets your needs.

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