- The Daihatsu Tanto kei wagon receives model year updates in Japan.
- The kei wagon gains improved safety and a new Daily Tool edition.
- Prices start from ¥1,496,000 ($9,400) for the base L 2WD variant.
Following the recent updates to almost its entire kei car lineup in Japan, Daihatsu has rolled out a series of enhancements for the Tanto kei wagon. The model benefits from an upgraded safety suite, more colors, and a new special edition called the Daily Tool.
The fourth generation of the Daihatsu Tanto has been on sale since 2019, alongside the Subaru Chiffon twin. In 2022, the automaker facelifted the Tanto Custom and introduced the adventurous Tanto FunCross variant. The highlight for 2026 is the new Tanto Daily Tool edition, which leans into the sporty side.
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The Daily Tool is based on the Tanto X trim but gains a glossy black finish for the mirrors caps, door handles, and 14-inch alloy wheels. For buyers who want more, the optional Daily Tool Style package adds side decals, glossy black garnish for the fog lights and the tailgate, plus special emblems.
A similar glossy black treatment has also been applied to the mirrors, door handles, and alloy wheels of the crossover-style Tanto FunCross which is also available with the rugged Urban Tough Style package. Furthermore, there is a new Smooth Gray Mica Metallic shade that can be optionally combined with a black roof.
Daihatsu Tanto Daily Tool
For 2026, the entire Tanto lineup benefits from the improved Smart Assist suite, already found in the Daihatsu Hijet Cargo, Atrai, Taft, Move, Move Canvas, and Mira e:S kei cars.
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The active collision-avoidance braking system now features Crossing Cyclist Detection, as well as the capability to detect oncoming vehicles and crossing pedestrians when executing turns at intersections. Furthermore, the maximum speed threshold for pedestrian detection has been raised from 60 km/h (37 mph) to 80 km/h (50 mph), while software tweaks to the Lane Keep Control reduce vehicle sway during operation.
Daihatsu Tanto FunCross
The Tanto is powered by a carry-over 660cc three-cylinder engine producing 52 hp (38 kW / 52 PS) in naturally aspirated form or 64 hp (47 kW / 65 PS) when fitted with a turbocharger. Both versions are exclusively offered with a CVT gearbox, offering the option between front- and all-wheel drive.
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The updated Daihatsu Tanto is available to order in Japan, starting at a sensible ¥1,496,000 ($9,400) for the base L trim, reaching ¥2,145,000 ($13,400) for the most expensive Tanto Custom RS. The new Tanto X Daily Tool special edition starts at ¥1,661,000 ($10,400) in 2WD form, while the range-topping X Turbo Daily Tool 4WD is priced at ¥1,947,000 ($12,200).
