The 2022 Daihatsu Wake is the boxiest car ever made, and that is a compliment. Launched in 2014 and ending production in August 2022, this model marks the final evolution of the "Ultra Space" Kei car. Its selling point is simple: an interior height of 1,455mm—the highest in its class. You can literally walk into the back seat. It is the spiritual ancestor to the current Daihatsu Atrai/Tanto Fun Cross.

The Wake is heavy (1000kg+), so engine choice matters:

• 660cc Turbo (KF-VET): 64 HP. MANDATORY We strongly recommend the Turbo model ("G Turbo"). The Wake's boxy shape acts like a parachute. The non-turbo struggles on highways.
• 660cc NA (KF-VE): 52 HP. Only for flat city driving. It works very hard to push this brick through the air.

• Vertical Space: The headroom is comical. You can wear a top hat. The boot floor has an "under-trunk" for storing wet items, perfect for swimming gear.
• Fine Vision Meter: The 2021/22 models feature a large central speedometer with a digital display, giving it a modern feel.

• Consumption: 15–18 km/l. It is less efficient than a Mira or Alto because of its aerodynamics (or lack thereof).
• Service: KF engine parts are standard Daihatsu fare. Cheap and available.
• Stability: Crosswinds are its enemy. On the highway, you will feel the wind pushing the car. Drive accordingly.

City Van: At 140mm clearance, it is a tarmac car. The short wheelbase makes it nimble in traffic. The sliding doors are a huge plus in tight Nairobi parking lots.

Final edition models feature Smart Assist III (collision avoidance). Reliability is excellent, but check the turbo on high-mileage units as they work hard.

The following are average showroom prices for fresh imports in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret.

Who is this for? The hobbyist who wants a car that feels like a portable room. Great for carrying bicycles (upright!) or camping gear. Who is it NOT for? Highway commuters—it is noisy and slow at 100km/h.