Daihatsu’s light crossover SUV, the Taft, is popular for its unique style and practicality, but some people say they regret buying the Taft. In this article, we’ll explain in detail why these complaints arise and what you should pay attention to when purchasing a Daihatsu Taft.
Reasons for regret
Taft
- Narrow rear seat and luggage space : To achieve its stylish design, the Taft sacrifices some rear seat space, making it unsuitable for long-distance travel, especially with large groups of people.
- Stiff ride : The Taft’s suspension settings are designed to emphasize the off-road capabilities of an SUV, so the ride may feel stiff on poorly paved roads.
- Poor visibility : Some people say that the Taft has poor visibility. It’s hard to see traffic lights, and you need to be careful when parking.
- High price : The Taft is priced on the high side for a minicar. Depending on the equipment, the price range could be comparable to that of a compact car, so it may not be suitable for those who prioritize cost-effectiveness.
Reasons for regret: Social media, word of mouth
代車タフトのココが良い
ﾀｰﾎﾞエンジンが元気（特にPWRモード）
ガラスルーフで室内明るい、開放感⚪︎
ステアリング、シフトノブがレザー調
シートヒーター、オートエアコン装備代車タフトのココが気になる
荷室が狭い（買い物かご入らない）
足廻りがバタつく
セルフステアが弱い— KO_BAとカロスポ&ペルシャ猫のてん🐾＠ねこのしもべ (@koba_corolla214) December 5, 2023
家にタフトあるけど、フロントガラスの面積少ないけん意外と運転中の視界は狭いっす😅
信号待ち先頭やと信号見づらい場合あり🤣— こまったもんだ (@koike19800501) April 18, 2024
Comparative analysis with competing models
Competitors of the Taft include the Suzuki Hustler and Honda N-BOX.
- Suzuki Hustler: Like the Taft, it features a unique design and powerful SUV-like driving performance. It also has better fuel economy than the Taft.
- Honda N-BOX: It is characterized by its spacious interior and ease of use.
The Taft is a recommended vehicle for those looking for a unique design and the powerful driving performance of an SUV.
Learn more about Daihatsu Taft’s fuel economy
Fuel efficiency evaluation method
The Taft’s fuel economy is said to be 20.2km/L to 20.5km/L (2WD) in WLTC mode. This is an average figure for a light vehicle, but actual fuel economy will vary greatly depending on driving style and road conditions. To understand actual fuel economy, it is effective to use the full tank method or a fuel economy meter.
Daihatsu Taft fuel economy performance SNS reviews
神祇大社へ初詣に行ってきた🐶
雨すごくてレイは車でお留守番なっちゃったけどもタフトはハイオク入れてから燃費良すぎてまじかよってなってます。
誰もが感じる静かになったやこれはオモロすぎでしょ！笑
リッター20切ることがなくなった😳 pic.twitter.com/JBVrRgZP8J— AKI (@RYUakifumi) January 2, 2024
https://twitter.com/naoyou1108/status/1758071578712309942
Fuel economy comparison with Hustler
When comparing the fuel economy of the Taft and Hustler, the Hustler tends to have better fuel economy. The Hustler’s WLTC mode fuel economy is 22.6km/L to 25.0km/L (2WD). This is likely due to the Hustler being lighter and being equipped with a mild hybrid system.
Hustler fuel economy SNS reviews
去年よりエアコン付けてる気がするけど全然燃費下がらない😆
ちゃんと動いてないんかなと思ったけど車でお昼ご飯食べたときに0.1下がった笑 pic.twitter.com/8gv6yyjNiG— かな＠ハスラーと2にゃんᗢᕡᓗ (@bt_zlz) August 11, 2024
納車から５ヶ月で約５０００km。
３月に福岡、６月に福山（広島）〜岡山〜香川に遊びに行ったので、ちょっと走行距離多め。
ここ１ヶ月ほど、平均燃費が２１．１kmから全く変動しないんだけど…😅#ハスラー pic.twitter.com/ftdrP4rirc
— 豚骨ラーメンは、ばりかた派 (@masa_pig) July 15, 2024
Taft is recommended for these people
- Unique design : The Taft has a unique design that is not found in other minicars. It is recommended for those who don’t want to have the same car as everyone else.
- Outdoors : The Taft has excellent off-road capabilities as an SUV, making it ideal for outdoor leisure activities. It is recommended for those who enjoy active hobbies such as camping and fishing.
- City Driving : The Taft is maneuverable and easy to drive even on narrow roads. It is recommended for those who mainly use it for city driving.
Explore the benefits of Taft
The benefits of Tuft include:
- Unique design: It features a square body and a large glass roof that are not found in other minicars.
- Powerful driving performance typical of an SUV: High ground clearance and excellent off-road performance.
- Spacious interior space: For a minicar, it has a relatively spacious interior space.
- Ample storage space: There is ample storage space, including a glove box and door pockets.
- Sunroof (Sky Feel Top) is standard equipment: You can enjoy a drive with a sense of openness.
- High resale value: The resale value of the Taft is higher than that of other minicars.
Examining the resale value of the Daihatsu Taft
Daihatsu Taft resale value: Highest among minicars! The Taft’s resale value is ranked 4th in the minicar rankings. This proves the appeal of the Taft and its high demand in the market.
[2024 Edition] Kei Car Resale Value Ranking
It has a higher resale value than the hugely popular N-BOX and its biggest rival, the Hustler.
| Ranking | Car model | Residual value rate (after 5 years) |
|---|---|---|
| 1st place | Suzuki Jimny | 78.02% |
| 2nd place | Daihatsu Copen | 71.48% |
| 3rd place | Suzuki Spacia Custom | 71.43% |
| 4th place | Daihatsu Taft | 69.22% |
| 4th place | Daihatsu Move Canvas | 69.22% |
| 6th place | Honda N-BOX | 67.49% |
| 7th place | Suzuki Spacia | 66.38% |
| 8th place | Suzuki Hustler | 66.32% |
| 9th place | Mazda Flair Wagon Custom Style | 65.86% |
| 10th place | Suzuki Every Wagon | 65.58% |
Resale value ranking of light vehicles
Source: Ucarpack
Why does the Taft have such a high resale value?
Consistently popular: Although it has been several years since its release, the Taft’s popularity has not waned. There is always a certain demand in the used car market, which leads to a high resale value.
Unique design and concept: The Taft’s square shape and large glass roof give it a unique character not found in other minicars, and it has gained strong support from certain demographics. This uniqueness has also ensured a certain level of demand in the used car market.
High driving performance with an SUV feel: Although it is a light vehicle, it has the powerful off-road capabilities and stability of an SUV. This is a point that is appreciated, especially by outdoor-oriented users.
Ample storage space and ease of use: Its high practicality is also an attractive feature, with a variety of storage spaces designed for outdoor use and a flat-flat rear seat.
Tips to avoid regrets
- Test drive : If you are considering purchasing a Taft, be sure to take a test drive to check the ride comfort, visibility, etc. In particular, there are some aspects of the rear seat space and ride comfort that you can’t know until you actually experience it.
- Use : The Taft is primarily suited to small groups, such as city driving and outdoor leisure activities. It may not be suitable for large groups traveling long distances or for those who often need to carry a lot of luggage.
- Budget : The Taft is a bit pricey for a minicar, so it is recommended for those with a flexible budget or who prioritize equipment.
Explaining why you might regret buying a Daihatsu Taft
Taft fuel economy and its impact
The Taft’s fuel economy is said to be 20.2km/L to 20.5km/L (2WD) in WLTC mode. This is an average figure for a light vehicle, but actual fuel economy will vary greatly depending on driving style and road conditions. Fuel economy tends to worsen, especially in models with turbo engines or when driving frequently on highways. Poor fuel economy not only increases gasoline costs, but also puts a greater strain on the environment.
Taft Specs
| Specifications | Taft NA |
Taft Turbo |
|---|---|---|
| full length | 3,395mm | 3,395mm |
| Overall width | 1,475mm | 1,475mm |
| Overall height | 1,630mm | 1,630mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,460mm | 2,460mm |
| ground clearance | 190mm | 190mm |
| engine | 658cc inline 3 DOHC engine |
658cc inline 3 DOHC turbo engine |
| Maximum power | 38kW (52ps) / 6,900rpm |
47kW (64ps) / 6,400rpm |
| Maximum torque | 60Nm (6.1kgm) / 3,600rpm |
100Nm (10.2kgm) / 3,600rpm |
| transmission | CVT | CVT |
| Drive system | 2WD(FF)/4WD | 2WD(FF)/4WD |
| JC08 mode fuel economy | 25.7km/L (2WD) -km/L (4WD) |
25.4km/L (2WD) -km/L (4WD) |
| WLTC mode fuel economy | 20.5km/L (2WD) 19.7km/L (4WD) |
20.2km/L (2WD) 19.6km/L (4WD) |
Points to note when selecting a grade
The Taft is available in multiple grades. Equipment and prices vary greatly depending on the grade. For example, higher grades come equipped with luxurious features such as genuine leather seats and aluminum wheels, but they also come at a higher price. Also, models with turbo engines tend to be more expensive and have worse fuel economy than non-turbo models. If you choose the wrong grade, you may end up paying for equipment you don’t need or regretting your decision due to poor fuel economy.
About Taft Grade
| grade | engine | transmission |
Drive system |
Price (10%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| X | 658cc inline 3 DOHC engine |
CVT | 2WD | 1,353,000 yen |
| 4WD | 1,479,500 yen | |||
| G | 2WD | 1,485,000 yen | ||
| 4WD | 1,611,500 yen | |||
| G “Chrome Venture” |
2WD | 1,551,000 yen | ||
| 4WD | 1,677,500 yen | |||
| G “Dark Chrome Venture” |
2WD | 1,556,500 yen | ||
| 4WD | 1,683,000 yen | |||
| X Turbo | 658cc inline 3 DOHC turbo engine |
2WD | 1,441,000 yen | |
| 4WD | 1,567,500 yen | |||
| G Turbo | 2WD | 1,606,000 yen | ||
| 4WD | 1,732,500 yen | |||
| G Turbo “Chrome Venture” |
2WD | 1,672,000 yen | ||
| 4WD | 1,798,500 yen | |||
| G Turbo “Dark Chrome Venture” |
2WD | 1,677,500 yen | ||
| 4WD | 1,804,000 yen |
Differences between Taft and other manufacturers’ models
Taft vs. Honda N-BOX
N-BOX
Comparing the Taft and N-BOX, the N-BOX has a larger interior space and slightly better fuel economy at 20.3km/L to 21.5km/L. On the other hand, the Taft is attractive for its unique design and powerful driving performance typical of an SUV.
Comparison with Suzuki Hustler
Hustler
Comparing the Taft and Hustler, the Hustler has better fuel economy. On the other hand, the Taft has the appeal of being equipped with a sunroof (Sky Feel Top) as standard, having more legroom in the rear seats, and having a high resale value.
Competitive points between Jimny and Taft
New Jimny Jimny Sierra
Comparing the Taft and Jimny, the Jimny has better off-road capability and allows you to enjoy serious off-road driving. It also has the highest resale value among light vehicles. On the other hand, the Taft is a vehicle that can be used in a wide range of situations, including city driving and outdoor leisure activities.
Taft’s position in the used car market
Used Taft car prices and features
Used Taft car prices are about 20% to 30% cheaper than new car prices. This is likely due to the fact that the Taft is still a new model and there are few of them in circulation on the used car market. A characteristic of used Taft cars is that many of them have low mileage and are in good condition.
Checkpoints during assessment
When evaluating a used Taft, it is important to check the following points:
- Exterior condition: Check for scratches, dents, and the condition of the paint.
- Interior condition: Check for stains or tears on the seats, scratches on the dashboard, etc.
- Engine compartment condition: Check for oil leaks and strange noises.
- Mileage: The lower the mileage, the higher the assessed value tends to be.
- Equipment: If the vehicle is a higher grade or comes equipped with optional equipment, the appraisal value tends to be higher.
Reasons for the popularity of Taft and how to buy a used car
The Taft is a popular car thanks to its unique design and powerful SUV-like driving performance. Another reason for its popularity is that it comes standard with a sunroof (Sky Feel Top), which is rare for a light vehicle. When selling a used Taft, it is important to request quotes from multiple dealers and compare them. Also, cleaning the car thoroughly before appraisal can help increase the appraisal value.
If you want to sell your beloved car at a high price
Ucarpack
Ucarpack is a new type of used car appraisal service that utilizes an auction system. Through this system, you have the chance to sell your beloved car at a high price to a dealer who understands its value. Ucarpack has 8,000 participating dealers, and the large number of bidders is one of the reasons you can expect a high purchase price. Also, unlike typical bulk appraisal sites, there are no price negotiations with multiple dealers or sales calls. This means you can sell your beloved car without any hassle.
ENG (High-value purchase of Alphard and Vellfire)
ENG usually buys cars at auctions and exports them overseas. If you sell directly to ENG, we can buy your car at the auction price. In other words, ENG is able to offer high prices by passing on intermediate costs such as the expenses and profits of the dealership and the auction listing costs to you.
Rakuten Car
After applying, all you need to do is a phone call and a one-time vehicle inspection. Sell your car easily and hassle-free! The key to selling your car at a high price is to compete for the purchase price. Rakuten Car Buyback features over 2,000 carefully selected used car dealerships. In typical buying systems, the costs of middlemen can lead to lower purchase prices. However, Rakuten Car Buyback achieves significant cost savings by eliminating middlemen. This is why we are able to offer high purchase prices.
If you want a used car, you should check in advance.
Gulliver
You can search for used cars from unlisted vehicles. Gulliver operates approximately 460 stores nationwide, so you can search from a large inventory of approximately 500 cars arriving every day. Once you register, you can find your ideal car.
If you are considering buying a new car, check the price online beforehand.
MOTA New Car Quote
MOTA’s new car quotes (inquiries) are the answer! Compare quotes from multiple manufacturers for free and negotiate discounts. If you want to buy a car at a good price, it’s important to get quotes for cars with the same specifications from rival manufacturers. One technique is to negotiate the price while quoting the other car during the sales negotiations.
A word from the editorial department
The Taft is an attractive car that combines unique design with practicality, but it’s important to test drive it thoroughly before purchasing to make sure it fits your needs and budget. To avoid regrets, make sure you understand the pros and cons before considering a purchase.
This article is for people who are considering buying a Taft and explains the reasons why they might regret their purchase, as well as some tips to avoid regrets. We hope this article will be helpful to those who are considering buying a Taft.
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