Daihatsu K-Open Concept: The Affordable Sports Car Europe Has Been Waiting For

The Copen’s successor arrives with rear-wheel drive and a manual gearbox, promising pure driving fun at a low cost.

Daihatsu has officially confirmed the development of the K-Open Concept, the spiritual successor to the iconic Copen, which will end production in 2026. This prototype surprises with its rear-wheel-drive platform and manual transmission, features that are rare in its segment and ensure an authentic, sporty driving experience. While its final dimensions are yet to be confirmed, the K-Open is expected to retain the compact, lightweight essence that made the Copen famous.

Engine and Performance: Guaranteed Fun

Although Daihatsu has not yet revealed the engine for the K-Open Concept, the current Copen uses a 0.7-liter, three-cylinder turbo engine with 64 hp, enough to move a car weighing just 850 kg with agility. This suggests that the new model will prioritize lightweight design and responsiveness over raw power, offering a small urban sports car with genuinely engaging driving dynamics, something roadster enthusiasts will truly appreciate.

Exterior Design: Nods to the Past, Eyes on the Future

The K-Open Concept’s design retains the round headlights reminiscent of the first-generation Copen (2002–2012), while modern touches, such as a potential retractable hardtop, point to current technology without losing its classic identity. Its aesthetics focus on lightness and functionality, with simple lines and compact proportions, anticipating a car that will be as enjoyable to drive as it is to look at.

Interior: Analog and Driver-Focused

Inside, the cabin is centered on the driver, featuring a five-speed manual gearbox, traditional handbrake, and sport seats with lateral support for optimal cornering stability. Minimalist details, like fabric door handles and limited touch controls, emphasize that the K-Open Concept prioritizes human interaction over extreme digitalization, preserving the spirit of classic roadsters for the 21st century.

Expectations and Launch: Fun for 2027

Toyota has not confirmed the exact launch date, but everything points to the third-generation Copen arriving in 2027, after the current model ends production in August 2026. With Koji Sato and Akio Toyoda overseeing testing and development, the K-Open Concept promises to be an affordable, fun, and authentic urban sports car, a breath of fresh air in the European market where small roadsters are increasingly rare.