The 2007 DAIHATSU MOVE is a compact kei-car that’s ideal for city driving: small footprint, economical engines and surprisingly flexible interiors. When shopping for a used Move, the key decision is which specification best matches your needs. This guide breaks down what to look for under four practical pillars — comfort, safety, handling and everyday usability — and finishes with a checklist of what to inspect before you buy.
Comfort: cabin features and ride quality
Comfort in a car this size is relative. Look for higher-spec variants if you want a more pleasant daily experience:
- Seating and trim — higher trims often have better padding, lumbar support and improved upholstery. For frequent short journeys or city commutes, comfortable front seats and easy-adjust steering make a big difference.
- Climate control — basic models usually come with manual air-conditioning; higher specs might include automatic climate control. Ensure the AC works properly on a test drive, as re-gassing or compressor replacement can be costly.
- Noise and insulation — check door seals and cabin insulation. Higher trims sometimes have improved sound deadening; consider this if you do a lot of motorway driving.
- Convenience features — remote locks, power windows, higher quality audio systems and keyless entry are often trim-dependent. Decide which items you value and prioritize those trims.
Safety: features and structural condition
Although kei cars are small, safety features vary by trim and market. When evaluating a specific Move:
- Active safety — look for ABS and electronic brake assist if available. These help in wet or emergency braking scenarios.
- Passive safety — check for airbags (driver and passenger at minimum). Side airbags and curtain airbags are desirable if present.
- Build condition — structural rust or damaged sills and suspension mounting points are a red flag. A clean, rust-free body is important because repairs can be expensive and compromise crash protection.
- Child safety — if you need to carry children, check ISOFIX anchors or secure seatbelt arrangements.
Handling: engine, transmission and driving dynamics
Handling is influenced by drivetrain, engine choice and suspension tuning. Consider the following:
- Engine options — many Moves come with small-displacement engines tuned for economy; some performance-oriented variants (if present) may offer a turbocharged option. Naturally aspirated engines are simpler and cheaper to maintain; turbo variants deliver sharper acceleration but can be more demanding and costlier to repair.
- Transmission — CVTs are common in kei cars and offer smooth, economical operation in town. However, they can be costly to rebuild if neglected. If you prefer direct feel, an automatic with stepped gears or a manual (where available) may be more engaging and cheaper to maintain.
- Drivetrain — FWD is the default, giving light steering and good efficiency. A 4WD variant may be available and useful in snowy or hilly regions, but expect reduced fuel economy and slightly higher maintenance.
- Suspension and steering — check for worn bushes, clunks and excessive body roll. Replace worn items can restore handling but factor the cost into the purchase price.
Everyday usability: space, visibility and running costs
The Move shines in everyday practicality, but trim differences matter:
- Packaging — tall hatchback design usually offers good headroom and flexible rear seats. Look for sliding or folding rear seats for greater cargo versatility.
- Visibility and parking — thin pillars and wide windows improve visibility; parking sensors or a reversing camera (if fitted) make urban parking simpler.
- Fuel economy — small engines and light weight translate to excellent economy in city use. Fuel usage will vary with engine choice, driving habits and whether the car is 4WD or turbocharged.
- Running and maintenance costs — check parts availability in your region and typical service intervals. A simple, well-supported model will usually be cheaper to run.
What to check on a used 2007 DAIHATSU Move before you buy
Use this checklist during inspection and test drive. If you’re not confident, get a trusted mechanic to do a pre-purchase inspection.
- Documentation: Service history, MOT/inspection records, any outstanding recalls and correct registration paperwork. A full-service history is a strong positive.
- Exterior condition: Look for rust around wheel arches, sills, door bottoms and under the car. Check panel gaps and paint mismatch which can indicate repairs from an accident.
- Engine bay: Check oil level, colour and smell. Look for fresh leaks, corroded wiring, or excessive dirt. A healthy engine should start smoothly with minimal smoke at cold start.
- Transmission: On an automatic/CVT, watch for smooth, responsive throttle and no hesitation or jerking. CVT noises or slipping sensations are a warning sign.
- Suspension and steering: Drive over bumps and test for clunks, squeaks or excessive bouncing. Check steering play at low speeds.
- Brakes and tyres: Even wear across tyres, good tread depth and predictable braking without pulling indicate sound components.
- Interior and electronics: Test all switches, heating/air conditioning, seat adjustments, windows and central locking. Damp smells or signs of water ingress suggest seal or drainage problems.
- Test drive: Use a mix of city streets and a faster road. Listen for unusual noises, test acceleration, deceleration and observe instrument behaviour. Ensure the car tracks straight and returns well after turns.
- Professional check: If in doubt, pay for a compression test, diagnostic scan and a lift inspection to confirm suspension mounts and underbody condition.
Practical tips when choosing a spec
- If you primarily drive in the city, prioritize comfort features, air-conditioning, and a smooth CVT or automatic transmission.
- If you need occasional spirited driving or highway use, consider a model with a peppier engine or a well-maintained turbo variant — but factor maintenance costs.
- If you live in an area with snow or poor roads, a 4WD model will give extra traction at the cost of fuel economy.
- Always compare the asking price to other similar examples in your market, and negotiate for repairs if inspections reveal minor faults.
Final thoughts
The 2007 Daihatsu Move can be a smart, economical choice for city-focused drivers and small families. Choosing the right spec depends on balancing comfort (seating, climate control), safety (airbags, structural condition), handling (engine, transmission and drivetrain) and everyday usability (cargo flexibility and running costs). A thorough inspection, a good service history and a careful test drive are essential to avoid surprises. With the right checks and a sensible specification, the Move can deliver years of practical, low-cost motoring.
FAQs
Is the 2007 Daihatsu Move reliable?
Generally, yes—if it has been well maintained. The small engines are economical and durable, but like any older car, reliability depends on past care, service history and how it was driven.
Should I choose a turbo or naturally aspirated engine?
Turbo models give better acceleration but can be more expensive to maintain. For most urban users, a naturally aspirated engine provides sufficient performance with lower running costs.
Are CVTs a problem on these cars?
CVTs offer smooth city driving but require proper maintenance. Worn CVTs can be expensive to repair, so check for smooth operation and a clean service history.
What are common issues to watch for?
Typical concerns on any older Move include rust, worn suspension components, and neglected routine maintenance. Turbo models may show higher wear if not serviced correctly.
Is it practical for family use?
For small families and urban use, yes. The Move excels at short trips, school runs and city parking, though space is limited compared with larger hatchbacks or compact MPVs.
