A series of unexpected events has prolonged Daihatsu's life in Europe, a market the Toyota-controlled automaker says it plans to exit in 2013. Its sales have dropped in half over the last couple of years and the company announced last year that it could no longer profitably offer Japanese-made vehicles in Europe. Still, the company says it has buyers to satisfy, so it will offer Thailand-assembled last-generation Yarises masquerading as Charades as it orchestrates its departure from the market.
Two trim levels will be on offer and both should certainly undercut the outgoing Yaris. Toyota, meanwhile, is expected to unveil the European-trim third-generation Yaris at the Geneva Motor Show next week.
