Daihatsu to Launch the GR SPORT, the Fourth Model in its COPEN Range of Mini Convertible Sports Vehicles

Oct. 15, 2019
Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd.

Front*1 Front*1

Rear*1 Rear*1

Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd. (hereinafter “Daihatsu”) will launch the COPEN GR SPORT, the fourth model in its COPEN range of mini convertible sports vehicles, nationwide on October 15.

The COPEN mini convertible sports vehicle utilizes a new D-Frame framework and Dress-Formation changeable interior and exterior structure to realize impressive driving performance and enable owners to express their individuality. It is currently available in three distinct designs: the COPEN Robe, which launched in June 2014, the COPEN XPLAY, and the COPEN Cero. The COPEN GR SPORT will be the fourth model in the COPEN line-up.

The COPEN GR SPORT is a production version of the COPEN GR SPORT CONCEPT that was exhibited at the Tokyo Auto Salon in January 2019. It was developed by Daihatsu with the support of Toyota Motor Corporation’s (hereinafter “Toyota”) TOYOTA GAZOO Racing, leveraging knowledge they have cultivated through their motorsports activities. In order to respond to customer requests for improved driving performance, Daihatsu overcame manufacturer boundaries to work together with TOYOTA GAZOO Racing and develop a car that feels good to drive and whose handling responds accurately to driver input.

Compared to existing models, the GR SPORT features increased body rigidity, achieved by adding reinforcing materials to the underbody and adjusting its shape; this reduces body torsion and results in a smooth and stable ride. By optimizing its suspension, and by adopting parts that enhance aerodynamics, the car boasts improved nimbleness and stability. In contrast to the base grades and even the top-level “S” grades of the other three models, the high-class GR SPORT has been designed to combine even greater sports performance, driving enjoyment, and an unprecedentedly exciting ride.

The front of the GR SPORT features the same Functional MATRIX front grille used by some of the vehicles in Toyota’s GR line-up; at the same time, the cabin sports special Recaro seats and meters to realize a high-quality interior space.

This year marks the fifth anniversary of the existing COPEN models. In addition to expanding the COPEN line-up with the launch of the GR SPORT, Daihatsu will continue working together with sales companies to proactively strengthen communications with its customers. The company will seek to use the COPEN and both its MONODUKURI and KOTODUKURI activities to increase the number of Daihatsu fans.

※1: The “GR” logo on the pictured vehicles and “TOYOTA GAZOO Racing” are trademarks of Toyota Motor Corporation

Product Overview

1. Improved driving performance

Increased body rigidity, the use of aerodynamic parts, and the adoption of more flexible suspension results in a smoother, more planted ride at all speeds. The GR SPORT responds more accurately to steering input and features greater straight-line stability, and so can be enjoyed in various usage scenarios from everyday life to long drives.

Improved body rigidity

A reinforcing front brace has been added to the underbody, while the shape of the center brace has been revised; these changes have increased the body’s torsional rigidity, contributing to a smoother, more stable ride

Optimized suspension

An innovative suspension has been developed by optimizing the springs and shock absorbers; the suspension flexibly tracks input from the road, resulting in a greater sense of surface traction
Improved surface traction helps clarify where the neutral position of the steering wheel is, and harmonizes steering input with car response

Aerodynamic parts

The GR SPORT uses a range of parts—including front and rear bumpers, front bumper air outlets, and underfloor spats—that contribute to more aerodynamic airflow underneath the car and along its sides; compared to the Robe, the GR SPORT experiences approximately 10 percent less body lift, so achieving greater straight-line stability and a more planted feel

2. Design

Exterior

Both the front and rear of the car feature blacked-out lights connected with black lines that emphasize its horizontal structure; the GR SPORT’s wide and low stance underscores its sporty design
The car features a Functional MATRIX grille and specially designed BBS-forged 16-inch aluminum wheels
Both the front and rear of the car are decorated with the COPEN emblem
The GR SPORT is available in the same eight color schemes as the Robe

Interior

The GR SPORT is equipped with specialized items to improve its functionality as a sports car and specialized decorations to create an adult sense of luxury; these include specially designed Piano Black door grips and center cluster, a card key, Recaro seats, a MOMO leather-wrapped steering wheel, and self-illuminating three-meter cluster

3. Dealer options

In order to further enhance the appeal of the GR SPORT, GR Parts (TRD parts^*2 and genuine Daihatsu parts) are available as dealer options
Available TRD parts include front spoilers, side skirts, rear side spoilers, front corner spoilers, and rear trunk spoilers

※2: TRD parts are manufactured by Toyota Customizing & Development Co., Ltd. and therefore differ from genuine Daihatsu parts