DAIHATSU Sirion 1998-2002 Photos, engines & full specs

Daihatsu's expertise in small cars was obvious, and it introduced the Sirion in 1998 as a sub-compact segment vehicle and exported it from Japan.

Even though the Charade name was better-known, Daihatsu made a bold decision and changed the lineup name instead of just call it a new generation. But it was more than just a new model; it was a new concept. The car aimed to a higher level, with better-equipped vehicles. It wasn't just a box on the wheels anymore, or, at least, it tried not to.

Daihatsu was slow in the decision to implement the bio-design trend on its lineup, but the Sirion adopted it. It featured tear-shaped, swept-back headlights with the turn signals mounted on their upper sides. A rounded grille crossed by a horizontal slat filled most of the area between the headlamps, and the carmaker found a way to install two fog lights on the lower side of the bumper. From its sides, the Sirion surprised the customers with its curved ascending beltline over the rear doors and the last row of windows placed behind them. In the back, the sub-compact car featured similar tear-shaped taillights as the headlights.

Inside, the Sirion offered room for four adults, ending the "fourish" roominess of the Charade's interiors. The dashboard was clearly a big step forward with an advanced design. Its instrument panel and center stack shared the same cover that continued on the passenger's side with an open storage area. Since Daihatsu was part of the Toyota Motor Corporation, it took some ideas from its bigger brother and installed the climate controls above the stereo.

Under the hood, the carmaker installed a choice of two engines, both running on gasoline. Daihatsu paired them with a five-speed manual gearbox.