Daihatsu Charade Hatchback (2003 - 2007) 1.0 EL 3d Auto (2004/04) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Not many people have heard of (let alone seen) the Daihatsu Charade. Autocar magazine gave it a great review and even Jeremy Clarkson liked it. The other owners on this site seem to agree.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

See above. Although this is a great value car that is practical and fun to drive, it is a little-known make and model is small and boxy. If other people's opinions are important, spend a few thousand extra and get a 'proper' small car (e.g. Fiesta, Corsa) although it might not be much better.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes: fun drive (in an unconventional way), great value for money. As an alternative, maybe consider a used Toyota Yaris or Nissan Micra: similar reliability and good value but slightly larger and sturdier.

What are you likely to buy next?

Don't know: will keep this 'til it falls apart.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

Yes

What price did you pay?

£6,000

When did you buy the car?

April 2004

Did you get a good deal and why?

Car is very reasonably priced and had a great specification so discount and trade-in were good but not great. Very good value.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Have purchased vehicle from same dealer previously.

What was the dealer like?

OK: polite, helpful, not pushy.

What's it like to drive?

On a practical level, this car is hard to beat. With a light (and narrow) body, nippy engine, responsive automatic gearbox and light power steering, it is excellent around town. It effortlessly moves away at the lights, gets through gaps and is easy to park. The little engine provides great economy (manual version qualifies for lower road tax bracket) but is also gutsy enough on the open road and motorway. Its high centre of gravity and little wheels mean that you can't take corners as fast as in other cars but it's still fun. The downside of the light weight and slab sides is that in a crosswind you must slow down and take care.

What's it like to park?

Could be the easiest car in the market to park. Small, great visibility and easy power steering. Perfect city car.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Exhaust (after nearly 3 years): replaced under warranty. Central locking (after nearly 3 years): replaced under warranty. Petrol cap sometimes release sticks. Car feels tinny but is better built than much dearer cars.

What's most practical about your car?

Power steering: light, so easy to park. Narrow body makes it easy to get through gaps and to park in smaller spaces. Boxy shape makes for very good visibility and is very roomy inside. Boot is small but seats fold to give a large load area.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Light power steering, responsive automatic transmission (4-speed) are the highlights. The EL (base model) has lots of toys and safety equipment as standard despite its low price: electric windows, electric mirrors, radio/CD player, central locking, ABS, 2 airbags. SL model is even better value for not much extra: air-con, alloys, side airbags. That's hard to beat for approx. £6k.