Toyota’s Tiny New Roadster Is Smaller Than a Miata—but Looks Just as Fun

Key Points

• Daihatsu K-Open concept previews next-generation Copen, aiming to revive kei-class convertible fun.
• Features rear-wheel drive, compact size, and thoughtful engineering for personal, playful driving experience.
• Powered by a traditional engine, it keeps the spirit of lightweight motoring alive.

The Copen’s Comeback Starts Here
The Daihatsu Copen has always been interesting for us – a kei-class convertible that delivers more smiles than speed. However, it has been long overdue for an update. Thankfully, Toyota has taken notice. Amid the group’s expansive lineup at the Japan Mobility Show, one small car caught plenty of attention: the Daihatsu K-Open, a pint-sized, rear-drive concept that clearly previews what could be the next-generation Copen.

This new K-Open channels the original Copen’s charm but adds engineering ambition. Toyota’s CEO Koji Sato described it as a car that brings the “Mobility for All” idea closer to the individual, not just the collective. It’s a neat way of saying the K-Open is meant to put the fun of driving back into personal mobility – something the kei segment has been missing lately.

A Tiny Roadster with Real Personality
At first glance, the K-Open looks like a toy that grew up. It’s low, short, and, yes, unmistakably playful. Measuring 133.7 inches long and 58.1 inches wide, it’s way shorter than the Mazda MX-5 Miata and other compacts, but way better than the latter thanks to its rear-wheel-drive stance. The body design is simple but straightforward, with short overhang and a clean beltline.

Inside, the packaging challenge was enormous – literally. To make a front-engine, rear-drive layout work in a kei-sized body, Daihatsu engineers had to mount the engine low, fit a transmission and propeller shaft, and still leave space for pedals and driver comfort. The result looks tight but functional.

Daihatsu displayed two prototypes: a sleek grey version and a red, race-ready version that’s slightly taller by about 2 inches with a 1.4-inch shorter wheelbase. Both hint at how compact yet surprisingly dynamic the production Copen could be. 

Still Small, Still Fun
For now, the K-Open sticks with a traditional internal combustion engine, though Daihatsu hasn’t released performance details yet. The car’s balance, size, manual transmission, and rear-drive setup already promise more character than numbers ever could.

While not confirmed for production, the K-Open captures everything the Copen should stand for – lightweight fun, clever design, and just enough mischief to keep it interesting. If it makes the jump from concept to showroom – and we strongly believe this is happening – the Miata, or the Roadster, might just have a smaller, cheekier rival to worry about in Japan.