Daihatsu Charade Review (2003 to date)

Quick Summary

The Charade is in many respects the forgotten gem of the citycar sector. If you can live with the econobasic styling, you'll be getting a supremely well-built and reliable car that will put a smile on your face every time you turn a wheel. On a fun per pound basis, motoring doesn't get a lot better than this.

Overall:

Models Covered: 3/5dr hatchback, 1.0 petrol [EL, SL]

SQUARE BUT SATISFYING

Daihatsu's Charade may not be the most visually arresting citycar you've ever clapped eyes upon, but beneath those unassuming lines is one of the most entertaining small cars money can buy. The 1.0-litre engine that resides beneath the Charade's stubby bonnet is more than enough to entertain and serves up a big portion of fun at a very small price.
Used Daihatsu Charade for sale

History of the Charade

The Charade was introduced in 2003 after a three-year absence from the British market. During this period, the YRV and the Sirion models had been fulfilling the small car duties for Daihatsu but neither could really fill the Charade's shoes and in May 2003 a new Charade was officially offered for sale. Three models were available starting with three and five-door EL and the range-topping SL. All models were powered by the same 57bhp three-cylinder powerplant with an option of manual or automatic gearboxes.
Used Daihatsu Charade for sale

Daihatsu Charade Road Test

The 57.6 horsepower available can punt the Charade to 60mph in 12 seconds and on to a top speed that knocks on the door of 100mph. The automatic version can be recommended if you plan to use it as a second urban scoot. Fuel economy is a beneficiary of the low weight/low drag approach. An outstanding fuel return of 58.9mpg makes the Charade amongst the most economical cars it's possible to buy in the UK and the 114g/km emissions figure also takes some beating.The engine features Dynamic Variable Valve Timing (DVVT) to provide even stronger low-speed pulling power, resulting in fewer gearchanges, yet also manages to increase top end power. Other innovations include a resin port intake manifold and a head cover incorporating an air-cleaner casing. Both serve to reduce weight and beef up torque in the lower and mid ranges.Anybody who has ever driven a sporty Daihatsu Sirion Rally can't fail to have been impressed by the meaty feel of the gearchange, and the Charade adopts the same materials used in the bushings and the same springs to give a similarly substantial feel to the manual shifter. Likewise, the speed-sensitive power steering also offers plenty of feel once the car's rolling, being feather light for parking manoeuvres. The firm feel to the steering and gearbox, the surprising refinement and the abundance of room in the cabin all serve to give the impression that the Charade is operating in a class above its citycar station. It's not, of course, and one benefit of its light weight comes when you press the brakes. Anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution are fitted as standard, a system that takes into account the distribution of passengers and luggage to optimise the braking forces.
Used Daihatsu Charade for sale

Buying a Daihatsu Charade

The Charade is not known to have developed any significant faults during its existence. It will in all likelihood have transported children, so check the cabin for rips, stains and other damage wreaked by small hands. The luggage bay should also be examined for evidence of wear and tear. This model should have been exposed to a fair amount of city driving, so check the exterior for knocks and scrapes, and check under the bonnet for accident damage or paint overspray. Otherwise, the usual reminder to obtain a service history applies.
Used Daihatsu Charade for sale

Daihatsu Charade Typical Pricing

Prices start at £3,100 for an 03-plated EL three-door. Specify an automatic gearbox and you'll need to tack on another £400. The five-door manual kicks off at £3,300, again on the 03 plate. Should you prefer the higher equipment levels of the SL, you'll need to fork out around £3,500 for a manual car or £3,800 for an auto. Insurance for all Charade variants is rated at Group 5.
Used Daihatsu Charade for sale

Daihatsu Charade Parts

(Estimated prices, based on a 2003 Charade EL) Daihatsus are so reliable that it's hard to see how the dealers make a profit on spares that include a clutch assembly at £155, starter motors from £115, headlamps from £65 and brake pads at £30 a set.
Used Daihatsu Charade for sale