Daihatsu Move Canbus (Gen 2)

Back in 2016, Daihatsu launched the Move Canbus, which is basically a kei minivan that is roughly as small as a Tanto but a fine choice for young Japanese females on the move. Now in its second generation, the new Canbus tries to continue where its predecessor left off with new features that will accommodate just about everyone looking for a dependable friend on wheels.

2023 Daihatsu Move Canbus Theory

2023 Daihatsu Move Canbus Stripes

Priced at 1.496 million Yen plus additional costs, which is more expensive than its main rival, the Suzuki Wagon R Smile, the all-new Move Canbus is offered in two different styles; the single-colored Theory and the two-toned Stripes for those who want a little nod from the previous Canbus. Whichever Canbus you pick, the new model still looks fairly similar to the previous model it replaces and when you pack alongside them, you can't truly tell the difference between them.

2023 Daihatsu Move Canbus Stripes interior

2023 Daihatsu Move Canbus Theory interior

While the new model features an awkwardly similar exterior design, the interior design has been heavily changed with a rather cozy dashboard design that works like a tray to place your stuff, especially your smartphone thanks to its optional wireless charging port. With the touchscreen monitor positioned above the dashboard and the speedo on the driver's side, the new interior is more functional than the previous model. In terms of comfort, it's still as roomy as its predecessor. It has four seats and it can be folded down for various situations, be it for work or for relaxation time, whichever floats your boat.

2023 Daihatsu Move Canbus Stripes

Now running on the DNGA platform, the new Canbus drives better and more smoothly compared to its predecessor. Under the hood, the new Canbus still runs on a 660cc 3-cylinder engine in natural aspiration and turbo configurations. Mated to a D-CVT gearbox, fuel economy is around 22.9km/L on the WLTC Mode scale, which is less efficient than the Suzuki Wagon R Smile as expected. On the bright side, it's more efficient than its bigger but cheaper sibling, the Tanto.

Having satisfied with its small sizing, DNGA platform, and improved NVH, the new Canbus is loaded with Daihatsu's new-generation Smart Assist that comes with up to 17 active safety features ranging from Collision Warning, Collision Avoidance Support Brake, false start suppression, line deviation warning and suppression control, stagger alarm, roadside deviation warning, sign recognition, AHB, ADB, ACC, LKC, Smart Panorama Parking Assist, and more. It's the safest Canbus ever made in times of the new normal.

Despite its stale looks and being outlasted by the Suzuki Smile, the all-new Daihatsu Canbus is ready to cater to typical Japanese people with its functional interior, improved driving, and tech that will make their day feel like it's the weekends. Feel free to relax with the all-new Canbus anytime you want.

Photo: Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd.