Manufacturer Daihatsu Production 1999–2011 Class Kei car | Also called Daihatsu Trevis Assembly Osaka, Japan Body style Hatchback | |
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The Daihatsu Mira Gino is a kei car with distinctive retro styling made by the Japanese automaker Daihatsu. It is based on the more mainstream Daihatsu Mira and was first introduced to the Japanese market in 1999, with the second generation following in 2004. The second-generation model was also exported as the Daihatsu Trevis to some markets in Europe.
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First generation (1999–2004)
The first generation was introduced in 1999 and was available in either three or five-door versions. The car was based on the fifth generation of the Daihatsu Mira (L700/710), which was produced between 1998 and 2002. The car was originally only available with the 659 cc "EF" series engine, naturally aspirated or turbocharged. Either front-wheel and four-wheel drive was available. The styling evoked the design of the classic Mini.
An unusual development was the installation of the European market 1-litre "EJ" engine in the Mira Gino 1000, presented in August 2002. This version no longer fit into the Kei class because of its larger engine, and was also marginally longer and wider due to the installation of bumper overriders and fender trim. The bigger engine produced 64 PS (47 kW), the same as a turbocharged 660 cc engine, but offered considerably more power at lower engine speeds. 1,290 of the Gino 1000 had been built when production of the first generation came to an end in June 2004. The Gino 1000 was effectively replaced by the 1-litre Daihatsu Boon.
Second generation (2004–2009)
For the second generation, the three-door version was dropped and it was only available as a five-door hatchback. The Mira Gino was discontinued in March 2009 and was replaced by the Daihatsu Mira Cocoa, also with retro styling albeit more original.
The styling was again inspired by the Mini, although this time the new BMW Mini set the example.