The Mighty Mira: A Comprehensive History of Daihatsu's Enduring Kei Car

In the dense, bustling urban landscapes of Japan, a unique automotive category reigns supreme: the kei jidōsha, or kei car. These miniature vehicles, defined by strict government regulations on size and engine displacement, are the lifeblood of personal transportation, offering unparalleled efficiency, practicality, and tax advantages. For over four decades, one name has stood as a titan in this class, a paragon of adaptability and innovation: the Daihatsu Mira. From a humble, utilitarian two-cylinder runabout to a high-tech, hyper-efficient commuter, the Mira’s evolution is a fascinating reflection of Japan’s changing economic and social landscape.

First Generation: The L55/L60 (1980–1985)

The story of the Mira began on July 1, 1980, though its roots trace back to the Daihatsu Max Cuore of the late 1970s. The first-generation Mira, designated L55, was introduced as the commercial-use version of the existing Daihatsu Cuore passenger car. This distinction was crucial for Japanese tax law; commercial vehicles enjoyed lower tax rates, making them an attractive proposition for private buyers who could overlook the spartan rear seating.

Powered by a diminutive 547 cc AB-series two-stroke, two-cylinder engine, the L55 was the epitome of basic transportation. It was simple, reliable, and incredibly cheap to run. Initially, it was only available as a three-door van.

Key Models and Trim Levels:

Mira Van (L55V): The foundational model, aimed at small businesses and budget-conscious buyers.
Mira Cuore: In export markets, the passenger version was often badged simply as the Daihatsu Cuore.
Trim Levels: These were incredibly basic, often designated by letters.
- A-Type: The absolute base model, often lacking even a passenger-side exterior mirror.
- B-Type: A slight step up, adding basic amenities.
Mira S (L60S): In 1983, a four-wheel drive version was introduced, offering enhanced traction for Japan’s snowy northern regions.

The first generation established the Mira’s core identity: a no-frills, highly efficient vehicle that perfectly met the needs of its time.

Second Generation: The L70/L80 (1985–1990)

The launch of the second-generation Mira in August 1985 marked a significant leap forward. The design evolved from the rounded L55 to a sharper, more angular “tall boy” aesthetic, maximizing interior space within the kei car footprint. The most crucial change, however, was under the hood. The old two-stroke engine was replaced by the new EB-series 547 cc three-cylinder four-stroke engine, which was smoother, quieter, and more environmentally friendly.

This generation also saw the birth of a legend: the performance-oriented Mira. Daihatsu, sensing a market for “hot hatch” kei cars, introduced the turbocharged TR. This model, along with the later fuel-injected TR-XX, transformed the Mira from a simple econobox into a pocket rocket, capable of embarrassing much larger cars.

Key Models and Trim Levels:

Mira Van (L70V/L71V for 4WD): The commercial workhorse continued, now with the improved three-cylinder engine.
Mira/Cuore (L70S): The passenger car version, available in both three- and five-door configurations.
Mira TR: The first turbocharged model, setting the stage for the performance variants to come.
Mira TR-XX: An icon of the era. This model featured a potent turbocharged and intercooled engine, aggressive body kits, alloy wheels, and a sporty interior. It was later upgraded with electronic fuel injection (EFI) and became a cult classic.
Parco: A special edition, produced in collaboration with the Parco department store chain, featuring unique upholstery and stylish appointments aimed at younger, fashion-conscious buyers.
Walk-Through Van: An unusual but practical commercial model with a high roof and a sliding driver’s side door, designed for easy entry and exit during delivery routes.

The L70 generation solidified the Mira’s dual personality: a sensible, economical daily driver on one hand, and a thrilling, high-revving performance machine on the other.

Third Generation: The L200 (1990–1994)

Launched in the spring of 1990, the L200 series arrived just as kei car regulations were updated. The maximum engine displacement was increased from 550 cc to 660 cc, and Daihatsu responded with the new 659 cc EF-series engine. The L200’s design reflected the “bubble economy” era in which it was born; it was softer, more rounded, and felt significantly more substantial than its predecessor.

The performance lineage reached its zenith with this generation. The TR-XX Avanzato R became the stuff of legend. Powered by a 16-valve, twin-cam, turbocharged, and intercooled EF-JL engine producing the regulatory maximum of 64 PS (63 hp), this tiny car was a powerhouse. It featured full-time four-wheel drive, four-wheel disc brakes, and sophisticated suspension, making it a formidable force on mountain roads and in amateur motorsports.

Key Models and Trim Levels:

Mira Van (L200V): The commercial model, benefiting from the larger engine.
Mira (L200S): The mainstream passenger car, which saw a significant improvement in refinement and interior quality.
- J-Type: A popular, well-equipped mid-range model.
- X4: A sporty, naturally aspirated 4WD model.
Mira TR-XX Avanzato: The top-tier performance model, available in two main forms:
- Avanzato: The “standard” TR-XX.
- Avanzato R: The ultimate homologation special, designed for competition with a close-ratio gearbox and stripped-down interior. It remains one of the most sought-after kei cars ever made.
RV-4: A lifestyle-oriented model with a rugged, SUV-like appearance, featuring roof rails and a rear-mounted spare tire.

Fourth Generation: The L500 (1994–1998)

The L500 series, introduced in September 1994, was an evolutionary step. The styling became more conventional and slightly more aerodynamic, reflecting the post-bubble economy’s move towards conservative practicality. While the platform was largely a refinement of the L200, Daihatsu continued to innovate. The new JB-series four-cylinder engine was introduced for the top-end performance models, offering smoother power delivery than the high-strung three-cylinder turbos.

This generation also introduced the Mira Moderno, a new line focused on retro-styling and a touch of European elegance, with chrome accents and unique grille designs.

Key Models and Trim Levels:

Mira Van (L500V/L510V for 4WD): Continued its role as the reliable commercial option.
Mira (L502S/L512S): Standard passenger models.
TR-XX Avanzato R: The performance flagship returned, now powered by the 659 cc JB-JL four-cylinder DOHC turbo engine. It was praised for its refinement but some enthusiasts missed the raw character of the previous three-cylinder.
Mira Moderno: A stylish sub-brand available with various engine options, including a turbo version. It catered to buyers seeking a more classic, upscale look.
Mira Classic: A limited edition, even more overtly retro-styled version that laid the groundwork for the future Mira Gino.

Fifth Generation: The L700 (1998–2002)

Debuting in 1998 to meet new, stricter kei car regulations that allowed for a slightly larger body, the L700 was a radical design departure. It featured a distinctive, almost neo-retro look with large, round headlights and a friendly, approachable face. Safety and efficiency were key priorities, with the L700 being one of the first kei cars to offer a high-rigidity body and optional side airbags.

The performance-focused TR-XX line was discontinued, but the spirit lived on in the turbocharged Mira Turbo. The biggest news, however, was the launch of the Mira Gino in 1999. This was a standalone model spun off from the L700 platform, featuring an elaborate retro design reminiscent of classic British cars like the Mini Cooper. The Gino was a massive success and became a sub-brand in its own right.

Key Models and Trim Levels:

Mira Van (L700V/L710V): The commercial variant adopted the new, stylish body.
Mira (L700S/L710S): The standard passenger car, praised for its spacious and modern interior. Trim levels included TL, CL, and the sporty CX.
Mira Turbo: The new performance model, equipped with a 64 PS EF-DET turbo engine. It was less hardcore than the old Avanzato but still provided brisk performance.
Mira Gino (L700S): The runaway success story. It featured a chrome grille, round indicators, optional wood-grain interior trim, and unique color palettes. A “Gino 1000” version with a 1.0-liter engine was also produced for export.

Sixth Generation: The L250/L260 (2002–2006)

In 2002, Daihatsu launched the L250 Mira. The design philosophy shifted again, moving away from the L700’s retro-futurism towards a more conventional, space-efficient “one-box” design. The focus was squarely on maximizing interior volume, ease of use, and fuel economy. The car was engineered to be exceptionally practical for daily life, with a low, flat floor and large door openings.

The lineup was split. The standard Mira catered to the budget-conscious, while a new, more stylish and upmarket version called the Mira Avy was introduced. The Avy featured projector-style headlights, a more premium interior, and was available with a turbocharged engine.

Key Models and Trim Levels:

Mira (L250S/L260S): The base model, available in trims like L and X, emphasizing fuel efficiency.
Mira Van (L250V/L260V): The ever-present commercial model.
Mira Avy: The premium version.
- Avy L, Avy X: Well-equipped, naturally aspirated models.
- Avy RS: The spiritual successor to the Mira Turbo, featuring the 64 PS EF-DET engine, sport suspension, and an aggressive front bumper.

Seventh Generation: The L275/L285 (2006–2018)

The seventh-generation Mira, launched in December 2006, had the longest production run in the model’s history. It continued the L250’s focus on fuel efficiency and practicality, but with a more modern and refined execution. The big news was the introduction of the new-generation KF-series 658 cc three-cylinder engine, paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) for the first time in many models, drastically improving fuel economy.

The lineup was once again split, this time between the standard Mira and the sporty, male-oriented Mira Custom, which featured a bold, angular front fascia and aero parts.

The most significant development of this generation arrived in 2011 with the introduction of the Mira e:S (Eco & Smart). This was a revolutionary model focused entirely on achieving the highest possible fuel efficiency for a non-hybrid, gasoline-powered vehicle. Through extensive weight reduction, an improved engine with start-stop technology (“Eco Idol”), and superior aerodynamics, the Mira e:S achieved phenomenal mileage figures, setting a new benchmark for the entire industry.

Key Models and Trim Levels:

Mira (L275S/L285S): The standard model, with trims like L and X.
Mira Van (L275V/L285V): The commercial model continued.
Mira Custom: The sporty/premium line, with trims like Custom L, Custom X, and the turbocharged Custom RS.
Mira e:S (LA300S/LA310S): The game-changing, hyper-efficient model that eventually became the new face of the Mira brand.

Eighth Generation: The LA350/LA360 (2017–Present)

By 2017, the market had spoken. The overwhelming success and technological importance of the Mira e:S led Daihatsu to streamline the brand. The eighth generation, launched in May 2017, dropped the standard “Mira” nameplate and is sold exclusively as the Mira e:S.

This latest iteration builds on the principles of its predecessor, pushing the boundaries of lightweight construction and efficiency even further. It utilizes Daihatsu’s new DNGA (Daihatsu New Global Architecture) platform, which increases rigidity while shedding up to 80 kg compared to the previous model. The KF engine was further refined, and advanced safety features from Daihatsu’s “Smart Assist” suite became widely available. The focus is no longer on performance or quirky styling, but on providing the safest, most economical, and most practical basic transportation possible.

Key Models and Trim Levels:

Mira e:S (LA350S/LA360S): The sole model in the lineup.
- B: The entry-level, often fleet-oriented, trim.
- L: The standard mid-range model.
- X: A higher-spec version with more convenience features.
- G: The top-of-the-line model with full Smart Assist safety features and premium appointments.

The Enduring Legacy

The Daihatsu Mira’s journey is a microcosm of the Japanese auto industry’s evolution. It began as a tax loophole special, transformed into a giant-slaying performance icon during the exuberant bubble years, explored retro fashion in the late 90s, and ultimately matured into a technological showcase of ultimate efficiency. While the fire-breathing TR-XX Avanzato R may seem a world away from today’s sensible Mira e:S, they are both products of the same philosophy: to extract the absolute maximum potential from the restrictive but brilliant kei car formula. For over forty years, the Mighty Mira has done just that, cementing its place as an undisputed legend of the small car world.