One surely cannot forget the Daihatsu Copen, one of the smallest convertible cars on sale in recent years. Now Daihatsu has unveiled the new model, which it has to be said, looks more stylish, but still offers extremely compact dimensions.

The front of the car looks similar to that of some current Hyundai models, especially the layout of the grille, but nevertheless, for such a tiny car it is a job well done. The rear design offers a sporty intent with the high bootlid end and two exhaust pipes.

The Copen features a two-piece, electric hard top that is folded in behind the driver when the bootlid opens towards the rear. The Copen only measures 3 395 mm long, 1 475 mm wide and 1 280 mm high.

In an interesting move, the Copen’s platform will allow buyers the swap body panels, giving the buyer the option to add new colours to the car – except for the door and the roof panels! Apparently this is also the case with the interior where the panels can be swapped for a different colour.

The interior is indeed a step up from the previous model. Apart from what seems to be pseudo carbon fibre trim, there is a leather-wrapped gear lever and steering wheel, as well as air conditioning, key-less start and an infotainment system. The latter will probably form part of the optional equipment.

Under the small engine hood is a 660 cm3, turbopetrol engine delivering a modest 48 kW and 92 N.m. Torque is send to the front wheels via a CVT transmission or a five-speed manual gearbox.

Pricing starts from R190 000 in Japan, although it is unclear if the new Copen will be heading to South Africa.

Original article from Car