Daihatsu Charade L250
A featherweight Japanese city car renowned for its exceptional fuel economy and reliability.
- Power
- 58 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 12.0 s
- Top speed
- 99 mph
About the Daihatsu Charade L250
The L250 series Daihatsu Charade, known as the Cuore in other markets, was one of the lightest and most efficient cars on sale in the UK during the mid-2000s. Powered by the EJ-VE three-cylinder engine with variable valve timing, it offered surprising pep for its size and class-leading fuel economy. While basic in its EL trim, the car gained a reputation for robust mechanical reliability and low running costs. Its tiny footprint and tight turning circle made it an ideal urban runabout, though its lightweight construction meant it felt less at home on motorways.
Daihatsu Charade L250 specs
The Daihatsu Charade L250 produces 58 bhp (43 kW) and 91 Nm (67 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 12.0 seconds and has a top speed of 99 mph (160 km/h).
| Make | Daihatsu |
|---|---|
| Model | Charade |
| Generation | L250 |
| Trim | 1.0 EL |
| Years | 2003–2007 |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | Japan |
| Engine | 1.0-litre inline-3 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 989 cc (1.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 58 bhp (43 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 91 Nm (67 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 12.0 s |
| Top speed | 99 mph (160 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 720 kg (1,587 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 81 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
Daihatsu Charade L250 rarity in CarSpot
The Daihatsu Charade L250 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 0 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Daihatsu Charade L250 fun facts
- At just 720kg, the Charade was one of the lightest production cars available in Europe during its production run.
- The L250 Charade's doors were designed to open to a full 90 degrees, providing exceptionally easy access for passengers.
- The 1.0-litre EJ-VE engine was so efficient that it achieved over 58 mpg on the combined cycle, a figure that rivalled many contemporary diesels.

