Daihatsu “Colorful Carnival” Is 5 Nutty Modified Models
For the last several years Daihatsu invades the Tokyo Auto Salon with some wacky modified models and the 2021 show is no exception. The Salon is Japan’s version of the SEMA Show but on steroids. This year it has presented five nutty models it calls the “Daihatsu Village Colorful Carnival.” It says the carnival’s theme is “new ways to have fun.”
Daihatsu calls this the Hijet Jumbo Sportza Ver
If your idea of having fun is whacking the top off of a Hijet van then Daihatsu has your number. Daihatsu calls this the Hijet Jumbo Sportza Ver. This is the extended cab model which is now a roadster of sorts. In place of the top is a cut-down windshield and nacelles behind the sports seats.
In the back, there is an open cargo area. The whole thing is lowered with red six-spoke wheels and an integrated side exhaust. In stock form, these Hijet vans come with either a 46 hp electric version hooked to a five-speed manual transmission or a 52 hp gas engine hooked to a four-speed automatic transmission. You also get your choice of rear- or four-wheel-drive.
This is the Hijet Jumbo Camper Ver
This is the Hijet Jumbo Camper Ver. The fascia is made to look like a face with its round headlights and mouth indication down by the license plate. With the camo tent affixed to the back you never need to pitch a tent. A roof rack provides adequate space for camping supplies-just make sure there are no bears around.
Taking a similar approach as it did with the Hijet van Daihatsu buzzed the top off of this Copen. Then it added the cut-down windshield and nacelles behind the sports seats. With the to gone this is now a roadster.
Something with more purpose is the Daihatsu Taft Crossfield Ver
Something with a little more purpose is the Daihatsu Taft Crossfield Ver. The tiny crossover has been raised along with being shod with those off-road tires. The front fascia is new and integrates a winch. A custom brush bar plays up the off-road theme and the roof rack adds storage.
Daihatsu’s last entry is this Thor Premium Ver mini-van. With D-Sport pieces, it features an updated fascia and lowered suspension. The silver and teal paint gives it a custom look and plays up some of the body sculpting. Aftermarket wheels and low-profile tires add a sporty look.
For the 2021 Tokyo Auto Salon, the crazy cars and displays are all seen virtually this year. It’s not the same as seeing it live but doing it virtually gives vendors and builders an opportunity to get their stuff seen. With vaccines for the COVID-19 pandemic having arrived let’s hope we can get back to a live Salon next year.
