Toyota Duet

Introduction

The Toyota Duet, produced from 1998 to 2004, is a compact hatchback developed in collaboration with Daihatsu. It was essentially a rebadged version of the Daihatsu Storia, aimed at offering an affordable and practical city car. The Duet was designed for young drivers, small families, and urban commuters who needed a compact, fuel-efficient, and reliable vehicle.

Exterior

The Duet featured a small and rounded hatchback design, giving it a friendly and approachable appearance. Its compact size made it easy to maneuver in crowded city streets and park in tight spaces. Despite its simplicity, higher trims offered alloy wheels, fog lights, and body-colored bumpers for a more premium look.

Interior

Inside, the Toyota Duet offered a surprisingly spacious cabin for its size, accommodating up to five passengers. The design was simple but practical, with ergonomic controls and foldable rear seats for increased cargo flexibility. Higher trims came with additional features such as air conditioning, power windows, and upgraded seat fabrics.

Safety Features

The Duet came with basic safety equipment for its class, including dual airbags, ABS brakes, and reinforced body construction. While not as advanced as larger vehicles, it provided essential protection for everyday city driving.

Engine Trims

The Toyota Duet was available with small-capacity petrol engines, typically ranging from 1.0L to 1.3L three- and four-cylinder units. Power outputs ranged from 60 hp to 90 hp, depending on the trim. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic, with front-wheel drive as standard.

Maintenance

Maintenance of the Duet is affordable and simple, with many parts shared with Daihatsu models. Regular servicing of the engine, brakes, and suspension ensures reliability. Its lightweight design and efficient engines kept running costs very low, making it ideal for budget-conscious owners.

Competitors

The Toyota Duet competed with compact hatchbacks such as the Suzuki Alto, Honda Logo, Nissan March, and Mitsubishi Minica. Its affordability, practicality, and Toyota-backed reliability made it a strong contender in the entry-level hatchback segment.