- Suzuki is believed to be working on a new Cappuccino roadster with a 1.3L turbo and RWD.
- The model is expected to be a sibling to the upcoming Daihatsu Copen and Toyota S-FR.
- A debut is rumored for late 2026, though Suzuki has yet to provide any specific details.
Affordable sports cars are an endangered species, slowly being pushed aside by the relentless march of crossovers and SUVs. Automakers are all too happy to follow the money, leaving driving enthusiasts with fewer options. But not all hope is lost, as Suzuki is rumored to be developing a two-seater roadster that could arrive in late 2026, alongside closely related models from Toyota and Daihatsu.
More: Toyota Rumored To Revive S-FR As A Tiny RWD Turbo Terror
While Suzuki has yet to make an official announcement, speculation suggests this new model could revive the Cappuccino nameplate, positioning it as a sibling to the next-generation Daihatsu Copen and the rumored Toyota S-FR. Unlike the original 1991 Cappuccino, which fit neatly into Japan’s kei car category, the new version is expected to grow significantly in size, putting it in direct competition with the Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Bigger Footprint, More Potent Engine
According to Japanese outlet Response, which echoed earlier reports from Best Car, the roadster could measure 3,895 mm (153.3 inches) in length, with a 2,410 mm (94.9 inches) wheelbase. That’s strikingly close to the 2023 Daihatsu Vision Copen concept, which came in at 3,835 mm (151 inches) long with a 2,415 mm (95.1 inches) wheelbase.
More importantly, it also aligns closely with the Mazda MX-5 ND, which measures 3,915 mm (154.1 inches) in length, 1,730 mm (68.1 inches) in width, and 1,235 mm (48.6 inches) in height, with a 2,310 mm (90.9 inches) wheelbase.
By breaking free from kei car size and engine restrictions, Suzuki gains the flexibility to equip the new Cappuccino with a larger and more powerful engine.
Reports suggest the roadster could be powered by a Toyota-sourced turbocharged 1.3-liter three-cylinder, delivering between 120 and 150 horsepower. An alternative option could be a naturally aspirated 1.6-liter four-cylinder, offering more grunt. Power will be sent to the rear wheels, with both automatic and manual transmissions likely on the table.
Design & Interior: Shared DNA, Distinct Personalities
While it’s too early to make concrete predictions about styling, the Suzuki Cappuccino is expected to share key structural elements, its greenhouse, and possibly some body panels with the upcoming Daihatsu Copen and Toyota S-FR to keep development costs in check. However, rather than being simple rebadged versions of the same car, like the Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ, each model is believed to have its own unique identity.
A speculative rendering based on the Daihatsu Vision Copen suggests Suzuki’s version could incorporate design cues from the Swift, including a familiar front fascia and a set of unique alloy wheels. Inside, the two-seater cabin is expected to feature a fully digital cockpit with a minimalist layout, much like the Vision Copen. At the moment, it remains unclear whether the company will opt for a fabric retractable roof or a hardtop.
Can Suzuki Beat Mazda at Its Own Game?
While the rumored launch is still nearly two years away, Suzuki could reveal a concept model sooner to drum up excitement. If the Suzuki-Toyota-Daihatsu partnership delivers, the result could be a trio of fun, lightweight roadsters to challenge the MX-5’s dominance. Here’s hoping they get it right.
