The Daihatsu Tanto (LA650S) revolutionized the Kei car market with one feature: the "Miracle Open Door." By eliminating the B-pillar on the passenger side, it creates a massive 1.5-meter wide opening when the front and rear doors are open. The 2019 model is the 4th Generation, built on the new DNGA platform, making it stiffer, safer, and better to drive than ever before.

Built on the DNGA platform, the engines are refined and punchy.

• 660cc Turbo (Code: LA650S) RECOMMENDED
  Features the KF-VET engine (64 HP). Found in the "Custom RS" grade. It uses a new D-CVT transmission that uses both a belt and gears to improve acceleration and highway efficiency.
• 660cc Non-Turbo (Code: LA650S)
  Features the KF-VE engine (52 HP). Adequate for city use, but the heavy sliding doors make it feel sluggish when accelerating to 80 km/h.

• Miracle Open Door: The passenger side B-pillar is built into the sliding door itself. When opened, it leaves a pillar-less gap. You can load a child seat, a stroller, or even a bicycle sideways with zero obstruction.
• Long-Slide Seat: The driver's seat slides back 540mm, allowing the driver to slide all the way to the rear seats to tend to a child without leaving the car.

• Smart Assist Next: The 2019 model features updated stereo cameras that can detect pedestrians at night and recognize road signs.
• Touchscreen Climate: High-end "Custom" models feature sleek climate controls and a digital instrument cluster positioned high on the dash for visibility.

• Turbo Economy: 18–20 km/l
• Maintenance: Cheap. KF engine parts are shared with the Toyota Pixis and Subaru Chiffon (rebadged Tantos).
• Spares: Service parts are easy. Body parts (especially that complex passenger door) are expensive and rare in Nairobi.

• Ground Clearance: At 150mm, it is standard. The wheelbase is short, so it won't scrape on speed bumps as easily as a long sedan.
• Structural Rigidity: Despite lacking a B-pillar, the door is reinforced with ultra-high-tensile steel. It feels solid on rough roads, but door seals should be checked for dust ingress.

The Tanto (2019+) is a safe car, despite the pillar-less design. It passes strict side-impact tests. The D-CVT gearbox is new technology, so ensure only high-quality CVT fluid is used during service.

The following are estimated showroom prices for fresh imports (duty-paid) in major Kenyan cities including **Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret**.

The Daihatsu Tanto is the ultimate car for parents with toddlers or elderly passengers. The "Miracle Open Door" is not a gimmick; it transforms how you use the car. If ease of access is your #1 priority, buy the Tanto. If you want better highway stability, buy the Honda N-WGN.