Update: Check out our new live photos of the Vision Copen Concept, direct from the auto show floor.

Daihatsu has revealed its concept lineup for the Japan Mobility Show 2023 in Tokyo, featuring the Vision Copen as the standout model. What’s intriguing is that this concept deviates from the typical kei car category, instead embracing the identity of a “compact sports convertible” while carrying forward the DNA of the smaller Copen.

To most viewers, the prototype model will likely resemble a modernized and beefier version of the first-generation Copen that debuted back in 2002. It features rounded lighting units on both ends and shares plenty of similarities in its body surfacing.

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The Daihatsu Vision Copen Grows Up And Hints At Mazda MX-5 Rival
The Daihatsu Vision Copen Grows Up And Hints At Mazda MX-5 Rival
The Daihatsu Vision Copen Grows Up And Hints At Mazda MX-5 Rival
The Daihatsu Vision Copen Grows Up And Hints At Mazda MX-5 Rival
The Daihatsu Vision Copen Grows Up And Hints At Mazda MX-5 Rival
The Daihatsu Vision Copen Grows Up And Hints At Mazda MX-5 Rival
The Daihatsu Vision Copen Grows Up And Hints At Mazda MX-5 Rival
The Daihatsu Vision Copen Grows Up And Hints At Mazda MX-5 Rival
The Daihatsu Vision Copen Grows Up And Hints At Mazda MX-5 Rival
The Daihatsu Vision Copen Grows Up And Hints At Mazda MX-5 Rival
The Daihatsu Vision Copen Grows Up And Hints At Mazda MX-5 Rival
The Daihatsu Vision Copen Grows Up And Hints At Mazda MX-5 Rival
The Daihatsu Vision Copen Grows Up And Hints At Mazda MX-5 Rival
The Daihatsu Vision Copen Grows Up And Hints At Mazda MX-5 Rival
The Daihatsu Vision Copen Grows Up And Hints At Mazda MX-5 Rival
The Daihatsu Vision Copen Grows Up And Hints At Mazda MX-5 Rival

In terms of dimensions, it’s a hair smaller than a Mazda MX-5 ND, measuring 3,835 mm (151 inches) in length, 1,695 mm (66.7 inches) in width, and 1,265 mm (49.8 inches) in height, with a wheelbase of 2,415 mm (95.1 inches). These figures represent a substantial increase of 440 mm (17.3 inches) in length compared to the currently available second-generation Copen in Japan, with the extended wheelbase contributing to its more mature proportions.

The cabin features a straightforward and driver-focused design, incorporating a more restrained digital cockpit, touch-sensitive controls on the center console, and a set of sporty seats. In general, both the exterior and interior of the Vision Copen convey a production-ready appearance rather than a futuristic design concept, sparking speculation that Daihatsu may be contemplating an entry into the compact sports car segment.

Furthermore, the presence of a 1.3-liter engine under the hood adds weight to this speculation. While specific details haven’t been disclosed by Daihatsu, they did mention that it can operate on carbon-neutral fuel. The interior rendering hints at its pairing with an automatic gearbox. Given that this engine has twice the capacity of the 658 cc motor found in the production Copen kei car, it’s reasonable to expect a substantial increase in power output.

You can explore our in-depth coverage of the 2023 Japan Mobility Show, formerly known as the Tokyo Motor Show, by visiting our dedicated hub here.

The Daihatsu Vision Copen Grows Up And Hints At Mazda MX-5 Rival
The Daihatsu Vision Copen Grows Up And Hints At Mazda MX-5 Rival
The Daihatsu Vision Copen Grows Up And Hints At Mazda MX-5 Rival
The Daihatsu Vision Copen Grows Up And Hints At Mazda MX-5 Rival
The Daihatsu Vision Copen Grows Up And Hints At Mazda MX-5 Rival
The Daihatsu Vision Copen Grows Up And Hints At Mazda MX-5 Rival
The Daihatsu Vision Copen Grows Up And Hints At Mazda MX-5 Rival
The Daihatsu Vision Copen Grows Up And Hints At Mazda MX-5 Rival