I think there's also the perception of brand. At the risk of invoking wrath; Daihatsu is not a well respected brand here in UK (unlike other Japanese brands like Toyota, Honda, etc), it is seen a bit like other Asian brands such as Kia and Daewoo - when I told my dad I had a Daihatsu he asked 'why did you buy a Korean car?'. IMHO the Copen should have been (or a replacement should be) branded a Toyota in UK. On a plus note, I was in Waterstones looking at the Top Gear Cool Cars book and the Copen is in it.
hmm. If it was badged as a Toyota it would probably gain more appeal as a small car. You have the Toyota Aygo already as a small 4 seater, so why not do a small 2 seater really?
There you have it lads and ladies, we are officially cool! I think Toyota branding is a good idea but it would clash with them having another bigger 2 seater. Daihatsu specialising in small vehicles, the Copen fits in with that better though. Although, there could a niche! a more upmarket one!
