The Daihatsu Mira e:S gets a makeover with the GR SPORT! A new form of minicar with turbo and 5MT for driving pleasure. See it for yourself and see it on sale!

The Mira e:S is Daihatsu’s signature minicar. Loved by many for its fuel-efficient and affordable price, this car underwent an update in October 2024 and was unveiled in its new form as the Mira e:S GR SPORT Concept at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2025 in January 2025. Going beyond being just an economical car, the Mira e:S has added driving pleasure, evolving into an attractive vehicle that appeals to a wide range of people.

In this article, we will explore the appeal of the new Mira e:S, especially the GR SPORT. We will thoroughly analyze the improvements, details of the GR SPORT, design, powertrain, fuel economy, safety features, body size, price, and more from every angle to fully convey the appeal of the Mira e:S.

Daihatsu Mira e:S GR SPORT Concept: Overview

Mira e:S GR SPORT Concept: A minicar that pursues driving pleasure

The Mira e:S GR SPORT Concept, which debuted in January 2025, is a sports model that emphasizes performance and was created in collaboration with Toyota’s sports brand, GR. It was exhibited alongside motorsports cars at the Daihatsu booth at Tokyo Auto Salon 2025, attracting a great deal of attention.

The GR SPORT Concept delivers an evolutionary approach to driving

The Mira e:S GR SPORT Concept features a variety of improvements for driving performance that set it apart from the standard model.

Turbo engine for powerful acceleration

While the standard model has a naturally aspirated engine, the GR SPORT Concept is equipped with a turbocharged engine. Maximum output has been increased from 49ps to 64ps, resulting in powerful acceleration. You can experience a sporty driving experience even though it is a minicar.

Enjoy driving at will with a 5-speed manual transmission

The GR SPORT Concept is equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission, allowing the driver to select the gears themselves and enjoy the joy of controlling the car exactly as they wish. The direct control feel that only a manual car can provide will further enhance the joy of driving.

Exclusive exterior: Aerodynamic performance and sporty design

The car is equipped with a special front bumper, rear bumper, and side skirts that enhance aerodynamic performance, further enhancing its sporty appearance. Utilizing knowledge gained from participating in rallies, the shape of the ducts and the structure of the bumper have been devised to improve cooling performance and optimize aerodynamic performance.

Exclusive interior: A comfortable space that supports sporty driving

The car is equipped with Recaro semi-bucket seats that support sporty driving. The suede fabric provides high support and creates an environment where you can concentrate on driving. The genuine leather steering wheel with GR badge, red push start button, and 5-speed manual shift all have sporty details.

The appeal of the Mira e:S GR SPORT Concept: From everyday use to sports driving

The Mira e:S GR SPORT Concept achieves driving performance that goes beyond the boundaries of a light vehicle.

Comfortable for city riding

Its compact size makes it easy to handle around town. You can drive it without stress even on narrow roads and in parking lots. It will be a comfortable everyday vehicle.

Smooth driving on winding roads

The combination of the turbo engine and 5-speed manual transmission delivers nimble driving even on winding roads, providing a smooth and enjoyable driving experience even on varied roads such as mountain roads and mountain passes.

Potential for circuit driving

The GR SPORT Concept has the potential to be a great choice for circuit driving. The combination of a lightweight body and turbo engine delivers nimble acceleration and cornering, making it a great choice for those who want to enjoy serious sports driving.

Mira e:S GR SPORT Concept: Opening up new possibilities for minicars

The Mira e:S GR SPORT Concept is not just a minicar, but a model that breaks new ground as an entry-level sports car that pursues driving pleasure. It is an appealing vehicle that combines the affordable price of a minicar with the performance you can only get from a GR SPORT.

A word from the editorial department

I went to the Daihatsu booth at Tokyo Auto Salon 2025 and saw the Mira e:S GR SPORT Concept in person! It was so impressive I’m speechless!

The first thing that caught my eye was the striking red body color. It was much deeper than it looked in photos, and it exuded a sporty aura. And then there were the aero parts exclusive to the GR SPORT! It was clear that attention to detail had gone into the design, such as the large ducts on the front bumper and the shape of the diffuser on the rear bumper.

The interior was also fantastic. The Recaro seats, the steering wheel with the GR badge, the red push start button… I was already excited even before getting in. The 5-speed manual transmission shift knob was also very pleasant to the touch, and it made me want to get behind the wheel as soon as possible.

To be honest, at first I was a little surprised, thinking, “The Mira e:S is a GR SPORT?” But when I saw the actual car and heard about it, that thought was completely blown away. It was a fantastic concept car that hinted at the birth of a full-fledged sports car that goes beyond the boundaries of a minicar.

I can’t wait for it to be released on the market!