Daihatsu Tanto made its debut in 2003 and it was codenamed L350. From 2007 to 2012, L371 the second generation of Tanto was in production. LA600, the third generation of Tanto commenced its production in 2013 and continued up to 2018. Daihatsu Tanto is currently in its fourth generation of production designated as LA650.
The 2018 Daihatsu Tanto comes with two engine options, a 658cc KF-VE 13 Petrol and a 658cc KF-DET Turbo 13T Petrol connected to a CVT.
2018 Daihatsu Tanto Grades
- Daihatsu Tanto L- This grade comes with halogen headlights, manual air conditioning, fabric upholstery, AM/FM Radio, steel wheels with Hubcaps, and power windows (front only).
- Daihatsu Tanto X- This grade encompasses power sliding doors, keyless entry & start, push-start button, Audio system with a CD player, power windows, adjustable rear seats, and wheel covers with an upgraded design.
- Daihatsu Tanto Custom X- This grade has LED headlights, fog lights, alloy wheels, body-colored door mirrors with integrated turn signals, partial leather accents & fabric seats, electronic brakeforce distribution, and power sliding doors.
- Daihatsu Tanto Custom RS- This grade features large alloy wheels with a sporty design, sport-tuned suspension, Advanced infotainment system that supports Apple Car Play & Android Auto, automatic climate control, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a lane departure warning.
Interior
Legroom & Space
The 2018 Daihatsu Tanto’s boxy shape and tall stance results in a spacious interior lending the occupants ample legroom and headroom. With a simple and functional layout, the controls are intuitive and the driver has excellent visibility and command of the surrounding traffic.
Keyless entry & start in top grades enhance convinience. The power sliding doors allow passengers to embark or disembark effortlessly from the car. Automatic climate control ensures room temperature is maintained in the cabin. With a seating arrangement for four people, each occupant has ample legroom and headroom.
Cabin Storage
The 2018 Daihatsu Tanto encompasses multiple storage compartments that are used to either keep or hold the gears of its occupants for ease of access and reach. The first row has a glove box, door panel storage, and two cupholders. The second row has door pockets and jacket pockets.
Boot Space
The 2018 Daihatsu Tanto has 130 liters of boot space when all seats are in place. The rear seats can be retracted to create more space.
Exterior
The 2018 Daihatsu Tanto has a boxy shape maintaining its compact footprints for urban practicality. Its tall stance results in a roomy cabin. Compared to its predecessors, the 2018 model has added aesthetically appealing features hence its high demand in the market.
The front end is distinguished by a small nose adorned with either halogen headlights or LED headlights depending on the grade. The small chrome-accented grille adds a distinctive look as the lower fascia encompasses a front bumper integrated with air intake.
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The side profile is somewhat conservative but very functional. The sliding rear doors are a standout feature allowing passengers to easily embark or disembark from the vehicle. The large windows improve visibility while simultaneously allowing natural light to flood into the cabin creating an inviting atmosphere. The rear has a clean modern touch incorporating a tailgate that opens wide for easy loading and offloading of small freight.
2018 Daihatsu Tanto Safety Features
The 2018 features multiple airbags, vehicle stability assist, anti-lock braking system, electronic brakeforce distribution, immobilizer system, child seat anchors, seat belts with pretensioners & force limiters, and brake assist.
2018 Daihatsu Tanto Fuel Consumption
2018 Daihatsu Tanto 658cc KF-VE Petrol engine consumption- 27.2 km/l on average
2018 Daihatsu Tanto 658cc KF-DET Turbo 13T Petrol engine consumption- 24.0 km/l on average
2018 Daihatsu Tanto Acceleration
2018 Daihatsu Tanto 658cc KF-VE Petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 18.0 secs
2018 Daihatsu Tanto 658cc KF-DET Turbo 13T Petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 15.6 secs
2018 Daihatsu Tanto Fuel Tank Capacity: 30 liters
Ground Clearance: The 2018 Daihatsu Tanto has a ground clearance of 6.4 inches
Service Intervals
Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil.
Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires an Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.
Spare Parts and Availability
The Daihatsu Tanto spare parts are easily available and are fairly priced.
Stability And Handling
The 2018 Daihatsu Tanto’s small size and lightweight construction contribute to its excellent stability. However, it is advisable not to drive at high speed. The steering wheel is power-assisted hence it adapts effectively to road curvature. The Tanto sits on a monocoque chassis paired with a suspension that absorbs road imperfections ensuring the occupants enjoy a jarring-free ride.
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The braking system is robust and adequate for its size. Other features incorporated in this compact car to improve its stability and handling include an anti-lock braking system, electronic brakeforce distribution, and vehicle stability assist.
Reliability
Daihatsu boasts a reputable history of producing reliable and durable cars that withstand the test of time. The Tanto is no different. It has undergone numerous modifications, improvements, and tweaks contributing to its reliability. Transmission issues are the most commonly reported problems in this car. Regular service and maintenance are required to keep this car in optimal condition. Refer to the Daihatsu Tanto buyer’s guide for a thorough reliability report. We also urge you to always follow the instructions in the owner’s manual.
Resale Value: Good
Daihatsu Tanto Competitors: Suzuki Spacia, Honda N Box, Nissan Dayz, and Mitsubishi eK Wagon.
What we like about the 2018 Daihatsu Tanto
- Spacious interior
- Fuel efficiency
- Sliding doors
What we don’t
- Limited power
- Lacks advanced safety features
Conclusion
The 2018 Daihatsu Tanto makes a perfect urban daily driver owing to its compact size, practicality, and excellent fuel economy. The best part about it is its affordable pricing allowing individuals on a tight budget to consider them. However, be it as it may, Daihatsu Tanto does not make a perfect choice when you want to go for long-distance drives due to its small engine capacity. To import the 2018 Daihatsu Tanto, send your request to EMAIL info@topcar.co.ke. Click Here to Kickstart The Importation Process.
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