Move Over, Nissan Cube: Daihatsu Introduces Move Conte Minicar in Japan

TOKYO — Daihatsu, Toyota's kei car subsidiary, has unveiled its newest minicar, a diminutive five-door that it calls the Move Conte.Although the Move Conte is shorter in overall length than a Fiat 500 at only 134 inches, the innovative design of the cabin offers ample space for up to four passengers. The Japanese automaker gets that extra room by reducing the size of the engine compartment and rearranging the seats to optimize space.Power will come from a normally aspirated KF-VE three-cylinder that lays down 58 horsepower, but customers can opt for a turbocharged KF-DET engine that produces 64 hp. Both front- and four-wheel-drive versions will be offered.Safety features include driver and passenger airbags, ABS and a body that is specifically designed to protect pedestrians in the event they are struck by the vehicle. Daihatsu is targeting sales of 4,000 units a month. Price will range from the equivalent of $9,133-$14,714, excluding the consumption tax.What this means to you: Daihatsu knows how to make an attractively styled and economical minicar. — Mike Lysaght, Correspondent