Daihatsu New Move 2025 Model Fully Redesigned – Points to Note and Disadvantages When Considering a Purchase

On June 5, 2025, Daihatsu’s flagship minicar, the Move , underwent a long-awaited full model change for the first time in 11 years.

However, for users considering purchasing, there are some “points of caution” that cannot be overlooked, “disappointing points” when compared to rival cars, and points that require so-called “compromises.”

” Is the design really cool? ” ” Does the turbo’s performance exceed expectations? ” ” How easy are the sliding doors to use? ” ” Is it true that the latest driver assistance features are inferior to those of rivals? ” ” How much will the on-road price be? “

We will answer all of these questions and provide objective, multifaceted information so that you won’t end up regretting your purchase after purchasing the new Move. Please read carefully to the end and use this information to help you make your final decision on which car to buy.

The biggest topic of this full model change is the discontinuation of the previous “Move Custom” and the unification of the design line. Furthermore, the introduction of the “RS” as the top grade. This new Move RS is not merely a practical light height wagon, but is attracting a lot of attention as a car that proposes new value by combining high-quality interior and exterior with sporty driving at a high level.

In this article, we will fully explain the appeal of the new Move RS 2025 model for those of you who are seriously considering purchasing it, as well as thoroughly explain the points to be aware of and disappointing points that you should be aware of before signing the contract.

Related reading

Daihatsu’s new Move undergoes a full model change and will be released on June 5, 2025. It will be the first car to feature sliding doors. The Move Custom will be discontinued. Daihatsu is redesigning its new tall mini wagon, the Move, and plans to release it on June 5, 2025. This redesign includes the Move’s first sliding doors…

[Points to note and disappointments] Things to know before purchasing

So far, we’ve looked at the brilliant merits of the new Move RS, but no car is perfect. From here on, we’ll honestly explain the weaknesses compared to rival cars, the small shortcomings, and the so-called “disappointments” so that you don’t regret your purchase and say, “I didn’t know that.”

1. The “disappointing” aspects of the driver assistance system: It falls just short of rivals

The Move RS is equipped with ACC, which is extremely useful on highways, but when looking at the overall driving assistance system, it is an undeniable fact that it is slightly inferior to its rivals in some areas.

■Biggest weakness: Lane Keep Assist is limited to speeds of 60km/h or moreUnfortunately , the Lane Keep Assist (LKA) feature installed in the new Move RS only works at speeds of 60km/h or more.This is a convenient feature that assists with steering to keep the vehicle in the center of the lane on highways, but it does not work at low speeds such as in traffic jams.

On the other hand, rivals such as the Mitsubishi Delica Mini, Nissan Roox/Dayz, and the top models of the new Suzuki Spacia, its biggest competitor, are equipped with a lane-keeping function that works at all speeds . This allows the car to stay in the center of its lane even when driving slowly in traffic jams, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of driving assistance in a wider range of situations.

This may not be a big issue for those who mainly cruise on the highway, but for users who prioritize reducing the burden of driving in traffic jams, this difference is very significant and is the biggest point that they will feel is a shame.

■ Equipment differences depending on grade: If you want ACC, the RS is pretty much your only choice. ACC with all-speed tracking and an electric parking brake are standard equipment on the RS grade of the new Move, and are available as manufacturer options on the higher-end “G” grade with a naturally aspirated engine. This means that they are not even available on lower grades. In particular, the mid-range “X” grade comes with a foot-operated parking brake. If you frequently use the highway and want to get the most out of ACC, you will inevitably need to choose the turbo RS grade or the G grade (optional). This is an important constraint when choosing a grade.

2. Insufficient equipment and operability for daily comfort

Because it’s a car you use every day, small details like equipment and operability have a big impact on comfort. The new Move RS seems to fall short in some areas.

• A disappointment for driving enthusiasts? No “paddle shifters” The new Move RS claims to offer sporty driving, but it does not come equipped with paddle shifters that allow for active use of engine braking or the enjoyment of simulated gear changes. This is a feature that is commonly found on rival turbo models such as the Spacia Custom and N-BOX Custom, so it is a disappointment for users who want to enjoy driving. Using the power mode gives you a simulated step shift feel, but when it comes to the feeling of being able to control the car at will, paddle shifters win out.
• Can’t find the optimal position? The driving position is fundamental for driving without the “telescopic” function. The steering adjustment of the new Move RS only has a tilt function in the up and down direction, and does not have a telescopic function in the forward and backward direction. This can make it difficult to find the optimal driving position depending on your physique. In fact, some people have commented that “even with the seat lowered all the way, the steering position is a little high and they wish it was a little lower,” so tall drivers (with long arms) in particular should be sure to check the position in the actual car before purchasing.
• Why isn’t there a wiper intermittent time adjustment function? Surprisingly, even though the RS is the highest grade model, there is no time adjustment function for the intermittent (INT) operation of the front wipers. The wiper speed can only be adjusted in rough steps such as “off,” “intermittent,” “low speed,” and “high speed,” so it is not possible to operate the wipers at just the right time in situations where light rain is falling on and off. As this is an aspect that is directly related to comfort on rainy days, it is a very disappointing point, even if it is due to cost-cutting measures.
• No option for a “steering wheel heater” – a necessity in winter . On cold winter mornings, gripping a cold steering wheel can be painful. In recent years, steering wheel heaters have become increasingly common in light vehicles , but they are not available in the new Move. Seat heaters are standard on the RS, but the lack of a steering wheel heater is a clear drawback in terms of comfort, especially when considering use in cold climates.
• Even though it’s the highest grade, it has manual air conditioning : The air conditioning is a manual type , where you manually adjust the temperature and airflow . In an age where automatic air conditioning is the norm, this specification is clearly a cost-cutting measure.
• Outdated USB Type-A Port : There’s a USB port on the passenger side, but it’s the older Type-A, not the Type-C that supports fast charging . There’s also an HDMI port, but it’s a bit outdated.
• Things to note about navigation and audio : High-performance 10-inch navigation systems do not have CD/DVD slots. Also, inexpensive manufacturer-option display audio systems (starting at around 60,000 yen) do not have navigation functionality , so smartphone connectivity is required.
• Though this is a premium grade custom model, the interior lamps are not LED but rather old-fashioned halogen bulbs . Considering that rivals like the Spacia Custom use LED lamps as standard, enhancing the interior’s sophistication and quality, this is a glimpse of the impact of cost cutting, and some users may find this disappointing.
• Just a little more! Usability of the armrests: The front seats are equipped with armrests, but some have pointed out that they are a little short. Also, while the rear seats boast a spacious interior, they are not equipped with a center armrest. This is also a shame, as it affects comfort during long-distance travel.
• Rear seat slide that cannot be operated from the luggage space side : The ability to slide the rear seats back and forth is very convenient, but the operating lever is only located under the seats and cannot be operated from the luggage space side. If you want to move the seats to load luggage, you have to go around to the rear door side, which is very inconvenient.
• Fatal? “Large step” when folding down the seats : Even if you fold down the rear seat backs to expand the luggage compartment, there is no mechanism to allow the seats to sink down, so there is a “fairly large step” between the seat and the luggage compartment floor. Since it is not possible to create a large, nearly flat space like the N-BOX, Spacia, or Delica Mini, it must be said that the usability when loading large items is significantly inferior to that of its rivals.

3. The harsh reality of pricing and cost performance

New Move 2025 model price and grade

The new Move RS has attractive features and performance, but when it comes to its price and comparison with its rivals, a harsh reality awaits.

On-the-road price over 2.5 million yen? Direct competition with rivals The vehicle price of the new Move RS starts at 1.9 million yen for the 2WD model. When options and other fees are added, it is not uncommon for the on-the-road price (total payment amount) to reach around 2.5 million yen . This price range is in direct competition with the higher grades of its biggest rival, the Suzuki Spacia Custom HYBRID TURBO .

The problem here is the difference in equipment mentioned above. The Spacia Custom is equipped with many of the features that the Move RS has “compromised,” such as lane keep assist that works at all speeds, paddle shifters, a heated steering wheel (depending on the grade), and improved operability of the electric parking brake (EPB) switch (multi-use flap).

Although it is in the same price range, it is inferior in terms of driver assistance and comfort equipment, so some users may find it difficult to accept the “product’s attractiveness for the price,” or cost performance. It is only natural to ask, “If it’s going to cost this much, why doesn’t it have all-speed LKA?”

As mentioned in the section on the benefits of expensive dealer-option navigation systems , the easy-to-read 10-inch dealer-option navigation system is very attractive, but it is expensive, costing around 350,000 yen . If you are not particular about the navigation system, you will need to consider options such as aftermarket products or display audio with smartphone connectivity to reduce the total payment amount.

Required options increase the price : The heated seats for the driver and passenger are an option called the “Comfort Package” (approximately 30,000 yen), which is bundled with 360° UV & IR cut glass. Considering winter comfort, it is recommended that you “definitely have it on,” and as it is considered a required option, the price increases accordingly.

4. Other minor points of concern (weak points)

Finally, we will summarize some more minor points of concern regarding driving performance and everyday use.

• Slight vibrations when idling : When idling, a slight vibration is felt through the seat. This is a common characteristic of many light vehicles, and although it is unavoidable, it may be a concern for users who want the ultimate in quietness.
• Restarting from idle stop : When restarting from idle stop, you may hear the starter motor and feel a slight vibration. This is normal, but some people would like a smoother restart.
• Brake hold release feeling : The brake hold function of the electric parking brake is convenient, but some people have reported that when the brake is released when starting again, it feels a bit “stiff” and unsmooth.
• Daytime running light function : The bold LED lights do not function as daytime running lights that are always on when the engine is started, but only as small lamps (position lamps).
• CVT characteristics : Some people point out a slight sense of discomfort that is unique to CVTs when it comes to the linearity of acceleration in relation to the amount of pressure on the accelerator.

[Advantages] The appeal and highlights of the new 2025 Move RS model

First, let’s look at the overwhelming appeal of the new Move RS, which continues to attract many users. We’ll delve into its capabilities in four areas: design, driving performance, interior, and advanced features.

1. Sophisticated exterior design: “Unique coolness” that maximizes the desire to own it

The biggest appeal of the new Move RS is its exterior design, which will impress anyone who sees it. It beautifully combines sportiness and a high-quality feel in a practical package as a light, high-roof wagon.

• The RS-exclusive front face accentuates its ruggedness. While the standard model grille is a “grained” type that makes use of the texture of the resin, the RS front grille features a special design that combines clear parts and sharp chrome lines on a lustrous gloss black painted panel. The sharp lines that connect this grille to the headlights create a very rugged and firm look. Combined with the standard fog lamps, the presence and luxury of the front mask can be said to be beyond its class.
• For those who want even more style, we highly recommend the ” Another Style Package ” (¥11,000) , available as a factory option . This package delivers the ultimate exterior aesthetic, perfectly aligning with the “Dandy Sports Style” concept. Selecting this package transforms the grille, chrome-plated parts around the fog lamps, and even the outer handlebars into a dark chrome finish. Owners who have installed this package on a black body have given it rave reviews, saying, “The dark chrome and aluminum wheels blend seamlessly with the body color, and when I first saw the car upon delivery, I exclaimed, ‘It looks so cool!'” and “It’s an option I’m truly glad I chose.” While the standard chrome plating is of high quality, this darkened style gives the Move RS a unique character unlike any other kei car.
• Elegant form and RS-exclusive 15-inch wheels : The slant A-pillars create a flowing side profile that is hard to believe is a super-height wagon. The RS-exclusive 15-inch machined aluminum wheels adorn the base. The combination with the black paint creates a powerful presence and a premium feel that exceeds its class.
• A sleek form and undercarriage that’s hard to believe is a super-tall wagon . The new Move has the same overall height of 1655mm as the Move Canvas, but by slanting the A-pillars and incorporating a kick-up line that rises near the D-pillar (the rearmost pillar), it achieves a very elongated, sleek, and elegant side profile. The flat roof design makes the car appear lower and more stylish than its actual height, a testament to Daihatsu’s sophisticated design prowess. The undercarriage is rounded off by the RS-exclusive 15-inch machined aluminum wheels. Beautifully combined with the black paint, these large wheels offer a premium feel and impact that sets them apart from the 14-inch wheels on the mid-range “X” model. Optional two-tone colors (such as pearl white and black) further enhance the car’s stylish look.

2. Powerful and high-quality driving: The newly developed turbo engine and RS-specific suspension deliver exceptional performance.

“The driving performance of a minicar is just…” Such preconceived notions are meaningless in front of the new Move RS. Not only the design, but also the driving performance is a major factor that attracts drivers.

• Powerful even at low RPMs! The stress-free turbo engine in the RS grade is equipped with a newly developed 660cc turbo engine that generates a maximum output of 64 horsepower, the maximum limit for light vehicles, and a powerful torque of 100 Nm at just 3,600 RPM. The driving experience, resulting from these specs, is incredibly powerful and smooth, as the initial impression of “super-active” suggests. Of particular note is the natural feel, with virtually no turbo lag (the delay between stepping on the accelerator and the boost kicking in). The torque is particularly abundant at low RPMs, which are frequently used in everyday driving. In city driving, the car can quietly maintain speeds below 2,000 RPM, sometimes even at around 1,500 RPM. This reduces unnecessary engine rotation, improving quietness and fuel economy. In fact, despite not being equipped with a mild hybrid system, the WLTC mode fuel economy is excellent, and the displayed cruising range suggests excellent fuel economy in real-world driving. Its acceleration has been highly praised by users who have previously reviewed the turbo models of the Delica Mini and Spacia, with comments such as “It feels like it has good acceleration” and “It’s not bad compared to the N-BOX,” leaving no doubt that it has top-class power performance for a minicar. Its power to climb hills without having to press the accelerator too hard promises stress-free driving in all situations in everyday use.
• Dedicated Settings Create a “Solid” and “Smooth” Ride Quality. The driving quality of the new Move RS is determined by its specially tuned suspension and EPS (electric power steering). The RS is equipped with large 15-inch tires, and the high-performance shock absorbers, custom-made for the RS, do not prevent a deterioration in ride comfort but, in fact, dramatically improve its maneuverability. The ride quality, described as “solid,” offers a sense of stability while also absorbing minor bumps in the road beautifully, resulting in a smooth, flat ride. There’s none of the cheapness that’s often associated with kei cars. The steering feel, too, is described as “solid” for a kei car, contributing to stable handling. Its true value is particularly apparent on the highway. “It’s not bouncy like older kei cars, and you can drive with ease,” says one commenter, providing excellent straight-line stability. Although it is a tall car with sliding doors, there is little body shaking when changing lanes, and body roll (tilt) is well suppressed, so you can drive with a linear feeling as if you were driving a low-profile sporty minicar. This sense of stability and flexibility will greatly reduce fatigue on long drives.

3. An advanced interior that combines convenience and quality

The interior space that the driver and passengers constantly come into contact with is one that the new Move RS makes no compromises in. It offers a spacious space that skillfully combines practicality with a sense of quality.

• Finally here! The first high-roof wagon with power sliding doors on both sides One of the biggest advancements in this full model change is the first high-roof wagon to feature power sliding doors on both sides (standard on the RS grade). This offers great convenience when getting in and out of narrow spaces or when helping children get in and out. Until now, if you wanted the convenience of sliding doors, you had no choice but to choose a super high-roof wagon like the Tanto, but the Move RS has successfully combined two values ​​that were previously difficult to achieve together: excellent driving performance and the convenience of sliding doors.
• The amazing feature of the power sliding door is the “reserved sliding” function . If you reserve the door when you exit the vehicle, the convenient feature allows you to “just approach the door with the key and the sliding door will open automatically.” This is extremely useful when your hands are full with shopping bags.
• The interior boasts a spacious and luxurious feel. The interior is dominated by a black theme, with sporty fabric accents on the armrests and seats. Brown padding accents the instrument panel, and the air conditioning vents are also decorated, creating a distinctly premium feel that’s distinctly different from the mid-range “X” model. The steering wheel and shift knob, which the driver constantly holds, are wrapped in genuine leather, providing a smooth feel that enhances driving satisfaction. The rear seat is also spacious. The footwell is completely flat, and sliding the seat all the way back provides more than enough knee space for adults. The seat length is just right, providing a comfortable seating position and ample headroom. Ease of driving has also been taken into consideration, with glass areas at the base of the front (A) pillars reducing blind spots diagonally forward and ensuring a wide, clear view. The driver’s seat is packed with storage and convenient features, including a wireless charging tray for smartphones, heated seats, USB-A and HDMI ports, and hooks for hanging shopping bags.
• Flat walk-through for easy movement : There is almost no step between the front seats, and **”there is enough width to walk through from side to side without any problems,”** making it easy to move between the driver’s seat and the passenger seat.
• A large, easy-to-see, easy-to-operate 10-inch navigation system. Available as a dealer option, the Panasonic 10-inch navigation system supports a comfortable drive with its size and performance. The high-resolution display makes maps easy to see, and the smooth, smartphone-like operation makes for a stress-free experience. However, it is quite expensive, costing around 350,000 yen, so you’ll need to consider your budget.
• The most spacious rear seat in its class : The rear seats are particularly spacious, with some saying that the knee space is large enough to fit about 3.5 fists. There’s enough room for adults to cross their legs, making them comfortable even on long journeys. The reclining position can also be precisely adjusted.

4. Advanced driver assistance systems and Daihatsu’s unique advanced features

Safety performance and driver assistance technology are also important factors when choosing a car today, and the new Move RS is equipped with the latest systems and unique functions.

• ACC and electric parking brake dramatically reduce fatigue on the highway The RS grade comes standard with adaptive cruise control (ACC) with all-speed tracking function and an electric parking brake (EPB) . This not only allows the car to follow the vehicle ahead on the highway, but also stops and maintains the vehicle in that position if the vehicle ahead stops in traffic, significantly reducing the burden on the driver’s pedal operation. Having this makes a world of difference in terms of fatigue during long-distance travel or rush-hour commutes home.
• A lifesaver for those who aren’t good at parking! Automatic parking function Another attractive feature unique to the Move that rival minicars don’t have is the automatic parking function , which can be selected with the optional “Smart Panorama Parking Pack .” Once the system recognizes the space where you want to park, all you have to do is follow the voice guidance to shift and brake, and the car will handle all steering automatically. For those who aren’t good at parking, this is a reassuring feature that can truly be called a lifesaver.

Additionally, a 360-degree camera is also available as an option, allowing you to view the area around the car, reducing blind spots and supporting safer driving and parking.

[Conclusion] Who is the new Move RS 2025 model recommended for?

We’ve thoroughly explained the advantages and disadvantages so far, but taking that into consideration, who would we recommend the new Move RS to?

■People who can actively recommend purchasing the new Move RS

■ People who need to carefully consider their purchase

A word from the editorial department

The new Move RS 2025 model is the first full model change in 11 years. Its appeal is supported by three major pillars: overwhelming design, high-quality driving performance that you wouldn’t expect from a vehicle with sliding doors, and Daihatsu’s unique advanced features .

On the other hand, it also has clear weaknesses, such as “some driving assistance systems that are inferior to those of rivals (especially LKA, which is not compatible with all speeds),” “compromises on comfort features such as paddle shifters and telescopic steering,” and “somewhat tough price competitiveness considering the difference in equipment.”

Ultimately, whether you should choose the new Move RS will depend on your lifestyle, driving style, and what matters most to you .

• If you value design and driving quality, the Move RS will be your perfect companion.
• If you value “cutting-edge driving assistance” and “cost performance,” it’s essential to compare it with rival vehicles.

Before making a final purchase decision, be sure to take a thorough comparative test drive, including rival vehicles (especially the Suzuki Spacia Custom Turbo) . Use your five senses to check the “quality” of the ride, the “suitability” of the driving position, the “feel” of the interior, and the “actual operation” of the driver assistance systems, all of which cannot be determined by catalog specifications alone.

If you feel that the unique appeal of the new Move RS more than makes up for its weaknesses, then your choice is definitely not wrong. We hope this article will help you choose a car that you won’t regret.