Daihatsu Copen (04-10) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Last Updated: 24 September 2009
The funky little Copen is one of the most affordable small convertibles around and great fun to drive too. Unusually for a car this small it features a metal-folding roof rather than a fabric hood, which means it is relatively quiet on the move and well-insulated from cold weather. It's diminutive dimensions make it easy to drive and a doddle to park in town, but the downside is a cramped cabin and virtually no boot space when the roof is down. The original engine was a 0.7-litre turbo but this was replaced in early 2007 by a more powerful 1.3-litre which is also more economical.
3.5 out of 5

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3.5 out of 5

Summary

New price range:

£12,238 - £13,495

Used price range:

£2,810 - £8,516

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Great fun to drive, metal folding roof, cheeky styling, economical engines

Basic and dated interior, cramped driving position, tiny boot

The funky little Copen is one of the most affordable small convertibles around and great fun to drive too. Unusually for a car this small it features a metal-folding roof rather than a fabric hood, which means it is relatively quiet on the move and well-insulated from cold weather. It's diminutive dimensions make it easy to drive and a doddle to park in town, but the downside is a cramped cabin and virtually no boot space when the roof is down. The original engine was a 0.7-litre turbo but this was replaced in early 2007 by a more powerful 1.3-litre which is also more economical.

Driving & Performance

  • Performance

    3 out of 5

    "The Copen was originally launched with a tiny 659cc turbocharged petrol engine. With just 68bhp it..."

  • Handling

    3.5 out of 5

    "The little Daihatsu has short overhangs and a low centre of gravity, making it great at handling..."

Comfort

  • Comfort

    2 out of 5

    "With the roof up the Copen is as good as a standard coupe, but on the motorway road, engine and wind..."

  • Practicality

    1 out of 5

    "The biggest annoyance with the Copen is the non-existent boot. It's okay with the roof up, but lower..."

  • Equipment

    4 out of 5

    "Considering the affordable price tag, the Copen comes well equipped with an electrically-operated..."

  • Behind the wheel

    2 out of 5

    "The driving position is best described as cosy, but even though the Copen is small, it comes with a..."

Costs

  • Running costs

    2.5 out of 5

    "It's a good choice if you're looking to keep costs down. Not only is it cheap to buy (either new or..."

  • Green credentials

    3 out of 5

    "The Copen is very economical for a two-seat convertible and the 660cc engine averages 44mpg."

Safety & Reliability

  • Safety

    2.5 out of 5

    "Twin front airbags are standard as are dual side-impact door beams and extensive underfloor bracing."

  • Reliability

    2.5 out of 5

    "Daihatsu has a reputation for mechanical toughness. However, the quality of some of the trim isn't..."

Buying & Selling

  • Buying new

    3.5 out of 5

    "If you're after a small and affordable convertible then the Copen could perfectly fit the bill. It's..."

  • Buying used

    2.5 out of 5

    "The more powerful and economical 1.3-litre model was launched in March 2007 so if you're after one..."

  • Selling

    3.5 out of 5

    "There aren't many Copen dealers on the second hand market as it doesn't sell in huge numbers. The..."

Gallery

  • Interior Daihatsu Copen (04-10)
  • Exterior Daihatsu Copen (04-10)
  • Exterior Daihatsu Copen (04-10)
  • Exterior Daihatsu Copen (04-10)

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Owners' reviews