Daihatsu Brings Chrome Trucks And Strange Concepts To Tokyo Auto Salon 2026

Daihatsu is going big at the 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon, which opens to the public on January 9. Its stand will be packed with concepts, ranging from playful to downright strange. There’s a customized Hijet dump truck, a Move with a sportier look, and a Tanto that really leans into bold styling.

First up is the Hijet Truck, wrapped in chrome and packed with lights. It stands out instantly, and there’s no way you’d ever miss it. The sides of the bed are filled with hand-drawn art showing the history of the Hijet, plus a nod to the old Midget. Around the back, the bumper is lined with 14 round LED lights. Yes, fourteen.

Lighting shows up everywhere else, too. Wheels, body panels, even the roof. Inside, it’s just as unusual, with floral patterns and images of older Hijet models stitched into the seats. If that’s a bit much, Daihatsu also brought a more sensible concept. The Hijet Panel Van Extend3 focuses on practicality, using a sliding rear section that adds extra cargo space when parked. It still looks tough, with chunky tires, rugged wheels, and a roof rack.

The Move lineup splits into two styles. The #ootd variant goes for a lifestyle look with two-tone paint, retro wheels, and a denim-themed interior. The Kuromeki version takes a darker route, with matte paint, new wheels, a sharper body kit, and a blacked-out interior with suede trim.

There’s also a Kuromeki version of the Tanto Custom. The main talking point here is the huge front grille that takes up almost the entire bumper. It’s inspired by larger Japanese vans, just scaled down to kei-car size. New wheels, aero parts, and a custom interior finish complete the look.

Daihatsu also teased five more concepts hidden behind covers under a Gazoo Racing sign. One could be a GR-tuned Copen, while the others appear to be sporty minivans. Either way, Daihatsu clearly isn’t playing it safe this year.