Daihatsu Naked

The Daihatsu Naked is a kei car that was produced by the Japanese automaker Daihatsu between 1999 and 2003. It was first unveiled to the public at the Tokyo Motor Show in 1997, generating interest for its unique design and rugged appeal. The Naked was part of Daihatsu's efforts to develop compact, practical vehicles tailored to urban environments while incorporating styling elements that evoke off-road robustness.

This model was equipped with a 658 cc petrol engine, which was characteristic of kei cars designed to comply with Japanese regulations on vehicle size and engine capacity. The Naked offered both front-wheel and four-wheel drive options, making it versatile for various driving conditions. Despite its small size, the vehicle aimed to provide a sense of adventure and durability, appealing to customers looking for a compact car with an adventurous look.

One of the most distinctive features of the Daihatsu Naked was its exterior styling. The car sported ridges on the doors, exposed hinges, and bolts, giving it a rugged and utilitarian appearance reminiscent of military vehicles. This design language was innovative at the time and marked one of the early instances of off-road styling cues being applied to everyday road cars. Such design elements have since influenced other models, including the Rover Streetwise, Citroën C3 XTR, and Volkswagen CrossPolo.

Inside, the Naked’s interior reflected its outdoor inspiration with plastic moldings designed to mimic fabric textures seen in models like the Fiat Panda. Notably, the rear seat was designed to be easily removable, enhancing the vehicle's practicality for carrying larger or unconventional loads. Additionally, the rear of the car was equipped with various attachment points, including straps and hooks, emphasizing its functional, rugged character.

In terms of technical specifications, the Daihatsu Naked was straightforward yet functional. It featured a gasoline engine producing around 64 PS of power, combined with an automatic transmission. The vehicle had only two doors, consistent with its compact design. Despite its minimalist approach, the Naked offered a distinctive blend of practicality, style, and a sense of adventure, making it a memorable model within Daihatsu’s lineup of kei cars.