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DAIHATSU TANTO BUYERS GUIDE(2019-2025)

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The Daihatsu Tanto is a masterclass in smart design. With its sliding doors, ultra-tall cabin, and clever pillarless side opening, the Tanto redefines what a small city car can do. Buying a used or imported Tanto, requires some insider knowledge. Therefore, this guide helps you make the right call before you buy. Click To Read More

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What You’ll Find in This Guide:

Every Trim Explained — From L to RS & FunCross

We break down the complete lineup:

  • L / X Trims

  • X Turbo / RS

  • Tanto Custom L / X / RS

  • Tanto FunCross

You’ll know exactly what features, engines, and tech to expect — and which trims are ideal for daily use, families, or spirited city driving.

Naturally Aspirated vs Turbo Engines

We compare both engine types:

  • 658cc KF-VE NA

  • 658cc KF-VET Turbo

Our recommendation?

  • Best Overall

  • Best for Simplicity

Urban Driving, Comfort & Practicality

The Tanto excels in tight spaces:

  • Sliding doors 

  • Flat floors and upright seating for easy access

  • Excellent visibility and a tight turning radius

  • Smooth ride quality over bumps, ideal for stop-start traffic

Bonus: Rear-seat flexibility, kid- and senior-friendly design, and optional AWD for wet or slippery roads.

Used & Import Buyer Tips

We show you how to avoid risky units:

  • How to read and trust the Japanese Auction Sheet

  • What CVT fluid to check and when to walk away

  • How to test electric sliding doors and Smart Assist safety tech

  • What warning lights, noises, or vibrations to watch for during a test drive

Includes a checklist of red flags, ideal mileage ranges, and how to verify service history.

Known Issues & Maintenance Tips

The Tanto is reliable — but here’s what to watch for:

  • CVT Transmission Shuddering — common in neglected units

  • Engine Oil Consumption in older KF-VE units

  • Cooling System Stress in hot climates or urban traffic

  • Sliding Door Motor Faults on higher trims

Each issue includes warning signs and practical fixes.

Cheap to Own, Easy to Run

  • CVT service every 40,000–50,000 km

  • Affordable oil, coolant, and brake maintenance

  • Excellent fuel economy (18–22 km/L)

  • Great parts support and low insurance premiums in most markets

The Tanto is one of the cheapest vehicles to run in the kei car segment.

Tanto vs. N-BOX, Spacia, and Roox

We compare the Tanto with its biggest rivals:

  • Honda N-BOX

  • Suzuki Spacia

  • Nissan Roox

Verdict?

Conclusion

The Daihatsu Tanto Buyer’s Guide (2019–2025) is your step-by-step manual for confidently choosing the right kei car — especially if you’re importing or buying used.

This guide helps you:

  • Choose the right engine and trim for your needs

  • Avoid problem units with expert pre-purchase tips

  • Understand CVT care and Smart Assist tech

  • Compare the Tanto fairly against the N-BOX, Spacia, and Roox

If you want a kei car that’s light on your wallet but big on practicality — the Daihatsu Tanto is it. And this guide makes sure you buy the best one.