Daihatsu Rocky

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    Exciting Customization Daihatsu Rocky Transformed into ‘Mini RAV4’ Draws Attention

    ByPawani

    Toyota’s “Mini RAV4” unveiled! Daihatsu’s “Rocky” in “RAV4” spec? The toughlooking, super cool “compact SUV” has sparked a stir at the event “FIELDSTYLE JAPAN 2024” held at AICHI SKY EXPO (Tokoname City, Aichi Prefecture) from May 18th to 19th, 2024. This Daihatsu Rocky, dubbed the “mini RAV4,” was a standout at the venue, attracting significant attention and garnering various reactions.

    Crafted by Brat, a company under the IDOM Group and affiliated with the used car dealership “Gulliver,” this custom vehicle embodies the essence of enjoying nature like a child regardless of age, aligning with the company’s philosophy. With 11 stores nationwide, Brat specializes in customizing a range of vehicle models. The showcased model, based on the Daihatsu Rocky, boasts a striking front face resembling the Toyota RAV4, featuring a hexagonal front grille akin to its counterpart. Notably, the iconic TOYOTA letter logo, a common sight on Toyota SUVs, is prominently displayed at the grille’s center, enhancing the mini RAV4 vibe.

    Equipped with a roof rack, white letter tires, and raised by 1 inch, this customized Rocky comes with a total parts cost of 549,100 yen, excluding labor expenses. Interestingly, the parts are available for individual purchase, allowing customization based on personal preferences. This customization option extends to the Toyota Raize as well. When questioned about the motivation behind this project, a staff member expressed the desire to offer the RAV4 experience at an affordable price point. The positive reception from visitors, particularly families with children, indicates the success of their endeavor.

    This unique customization provides a glimpse into the RAV4 experience within the manageable Rocky platform. User feedback includes praises such as The RAV4’s face is great!, It’s interesting, and The mini RAV4 is nice, too.

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    Rapidly Soaring Popularity: Toyota’s Raize SUV Garnering 3.5 Years of Glowing Reviews

    ByPawani

    The Toyota “Raize” is an SUV released in 2019 under OEM from Daihatsu. What kind of response have you received from retailers so far?Raize was introduced in November 2019 as the first product that incorporates Daihatsu’s DNGA into a compact car as an OEM vehicle for Daihatsu “Rocky” in anticipation of the product development of both companies. Everything from the platform to the powertrain unit has been newly developed.

    Since its debut in 2019 as Toyota’s smallest SUV under the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) partnership with Daihatsu, the Toyota “Raize” has been creating waves in the automotive market. Priced attractively at under 1.75 million yen, this compact SUV has managed to win over the hearts of many car enthusiasts, and its popularity shows no signs of slowing down even after three and a half years.

    One of the reasons behind the Raize’s popularity is its sturdiness, despite its relatively small size. Measuring just 4 meters in length, the Raize boasts a sturdy and powerful SUV-like design that appeals to both city drivers and adventure seekers alike. Additionally, the vehicle’s spacious cargo space ensures practicality and convenience, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of consumers.

    Originally equipped with a 1-liter turbo gasoline engine, Toyota made a strategic move to improve the product by switching to a more efficient 1.2-liter engine in November 2021. This upgrade not only enhanced the vehicle’s overall performance but also made the engine quieter, a point appreciated by customers who had taken the test drive.

    The Raize lineup includes various grades for both gasoline and hybrid vehicles, with the latter gaining popularity among environmentally-conscious drivers. However, as of now, only petrol cars are available for sale, while the release of hybrid models remains uncertain due to issues with Daihatsu.

    Despite this uncertainty, the Raize continues to be a hit among young, single buyers who find its attractive design and compact size appealing. Female customers, in particular, have been drawn to the Raize, often describing it as “cute” and showing appreciation for its aesthetic appeal.

    However, the Raize faces some competition in the hybrid car market, particularly from the Yaris Cross, which is also a popular choice among customers considering a hybrid vehicle. Though the Raize has a 5-seater configuration while the Yaris Cross seats 3, the actual driving comfort remains similar, making the choice between the two a matter of personal preference.

    According to feedback from dealers, one common concern expressed by potential buyers with families is that the Raize might feel slightly cramped due to its compact size. To cater to customers seeking more cargo space, dealers sometimes recommend the Corolla Cross, a larger alternative from Toyota’s lineup.

    Despite these considerations and the temporary halt in the sales of Raize Hybrid due to Daihatsu’s issues, there is still significant interest from customers eagerly awaiting the hybrid model’s return. Many are patiently waiting for safety issues to be resolved so they can get their hands on the eco-friendly version of the Raize as soon as possible.

    In conclusion, the Toyota Raize has firmly established itself as a popular choice among SUV enthusiasts, offering a winning combination of affordability, sturdy design, and ample cargo space. As the automotive industry moves towards a greener future, the eagerly anticipated Raize Hybrid could further solidify its position as one of Toyota’s most sought-after offerings in the market.

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    The affected models are the hybrid versions of Rocky and Raize

    ByChathura Chanuka

    Daihatsu has revealed that there were irregularities in the certification process for the side collision test for its “Rocky” and Toyota’s “Raize” hybrid models, which Daihatsu supplies to Toyota as OEM, and a third-party committee will investigate the cause. The affected models are the hybrid versions of Rocky and Raize, which were launched in November 2021, and as of May 18, 2023, 22,329 Rocky and 55,111 Raize had been sold. The irregularity was that while the left side of the side collision test using a pole was conducted under the supervision of a certification agency, the right side was submitted with the same data as the left side, which was a test conducted internally. Daihatsu had previously announced irregularities in the certification application for the side collision test of four models, totaling 88,123 units for overseas markets on April 28, and this was discovered during an internal inspection. Daihatsu commented that this irregularity is not socially acceptable as it is related to the safety of cars and that it is believed to have occurred because management did not support the production site and compliance with laws and regulations and the development of a healthy corporate culture were neglected.

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    The compact SUV Rocky from Daihatsu is the best-selling registered car in their lineup

    ByChathura Chanuka

    The compact SUV “Rocky” from Daihatsu is the best-selling registered car in their lineup. It debuted in November 2019 and is the second model to incorporate Daihatsu’s new generation car-making technology, DNGA. Its popularity is due to its compact size, which is easy to drive and park, and its spacious interior and cargo area. The front grill and 17-inch tires give it a powerful and dynamic appearance. Although there is no strict definition of a compact SUV, the Rocky’s length of 3995mm, width of 1695mm, and height of 1620mm make it one of the smallest SUVs in Japan, making it easy to maneuver on narrow roads and in parking lots. The powertrain initially had only a 1-liter turbo engine, but a new 1.2-liter engine was released in November 2021.

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    Popular small SUV “Rocky / Raize” hybrid or gasoline car which one to buy? It is difficult to recover the price difference with “fuel consumption”!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Popular small SUV “”Rocky/Rise”” hybrid or gasoline vehicle? Difficult to recoup the price difference in “”fuel economy””!

    Daihatsu “”Rocky”” and Toyota “”Rise”” with two major powertrains available
    　The Daihatsu Rocky and Toyota Rise compact SUVs, which debuted in November 2019, continue to enjoy steady sales.
    　
    　In November 2021, the newly developed 1,2-liter “”e-SMART”” hybrid and 1.2-liter gasoline models will be replaced as the mainstay of the lineup, further solidifying the lineup.
    　
    　There is a price difference of approximately 300,000 yen between the hybrid and gasoline models. Which is more popular and which is more affordable?

    Which one is your favorite? Compare Daihatsu’s “”Rocky”” and Toyota’s “”Rise”” in 15 images.

    The Rocky/Rise with a new engine lineup for the 2021 model year [Photo: Daihatsu “”Rocky PremiumG””].

    　Rocky and Rise are compact SUVs developed mainly by Daihatsu.

    　Based on Daihatsu’s new-generation development concept “”DNGA”” (Daihatsu New Global Architecture), a new platform and engine have been developed to achieve a high level of all aspects, including handling, stability, and advanced driving support functions.

    　Packaging is kept to less than 4 m in length, within the 5-number size range, which is easy to handle in Japan’s narrow streets, while still providing a spacious interior and cargo space.

    　On the other hand, the exterior of the vehicle is characterized by a powerful SUV-like appearance that gives the impression of its small size.

    　According to a survey by the Japan Automobile Dealers Association (JDA), the Rise ranked fifth in new vehicle sales ranking by brand in the first half of 2022 (January to June, 2022) with 45,380 units sold.

    　Rocky is also ranked 27th with 10,808 units sold, indicating that both brands are showing stable sales in their third year of debut.

    　When the Rocky/Rise debuted in 2019, it was equipped with a 1-liter inline 3-cylinder turbocharged engine, offering both dynamic performance equivalent to a 1.5-liter engine and eco-friendly performance with a catalog fuel economy of 18.6 km/L (2WD, WLTC mode fuel economy).

    　In addition, the 1-liter turbocharged engine has been made a 4WD-only engine for the 2021 partial improvement, and two newly-developed powertrains are available for the 2WD model.

    　The first is a newly developed 1.2-liter inline 3-cylinder naturally aspirated gasoline engine.

    　The first is a newly developed 1.2-liter in-line 3-cylinder naturally-aspirated gasoline engine with improved combustion efficiency for better fuel economy and improved acceleration performance at low speeds, making it easier to handle.

    　The e-SMART Hybrid is a series hybrid in which the highly efficient 1.2-liter engine is used exclusively for power generation and is driven 100% by a motor.

    　The e-SMART Hybrid is designed with an emphasis on easy handling at low and medium speeds, and its simple structure makes it possible to be installed in the compact Rocky/Rise.

    　Prices for each 2WD model, including consumption tax, range from 1,707,000 yen to 2,039,000 yen for the Rise’s 1.2-liter gasoline model.

    　The Rise’s e-SMART Hybrid model ranges from 2,163,000 yen to 2,328,000 yen.

    　This is the cheapest model among SUVs equipped with a hybrid system (excluding mini cars).

    　Comparing the Rocky/Rise 2WD models among the same grades, the difference ranges from 306,000 yen to 289,000 yen.

    　According to Daihatsu’s public relations department, the latest sales ratio of the Rocky is 60% hybrid vehicles compared to 40% gasoline vehicles. The hybrid seems to be very popular, regardless of the price difference of about 300,000 yen.

    　So which of these two types is actually the better value for money?

    Which is a better buy, the hybrid or gasoline-powered version of the popular small SUVs “”Rocky/Rise””? Difficult to recoup the price difference in “”fuel economy””!

    300,000 yen price difference cannot be recouped by fuel economy alone, but the difference “”isn’t just that.””
    　Now let’s compare the value for money of the Rocky/Rise 1.2-liter gasoline and e-SMART hybrid vehicles.

    　The average retail price of gasoline nationwide as of September 20, 2022 is 169.7 yen (regular gasoline / consumption tax included), according to the Agency for Natural Resources and Energy, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

    　Based on this, we calculate the gasoline consumption for a 50,000 km trip and the fuel cost at that time, using the catalog fuel efficiency value (WLTC mode fuel efficiency).

    The hybrid is the focus of much attention, but the best value may be found in the 1.2-liter gasoline model [Photo: Toyota Rise Z Gasoline (2WD)].

    　The Rocky/Rise e-SMART Hybrid model has a catalog fuel economy of 28.0 km/L.

    　The gasoline bill is calculated to cost approximately 303,035 yen for 50,000 km.

    　In contrast, the catalog fuel efficiency of the Rocky/Rise 1.2-liter gasoline vehicle is 20.7 km/L.

    　The gasoline cost for 50,000 km is approximately 409,903 yen.

    　The difference between the e-SMART Hybrid and the 1.2-liter gasoline vehicle is approximately 100,000 yen. Even if the distance is doubled to 100,000 km, the difference will be approximately 200,000 yen.

    　This is only a rough estimate based on a simple calculation, but it is clear that it is not easy for a user with a long driving distance to recover the price difference of the e-SMART Hybrid vehicle, which is about 300,000 yen higher.

    　It can also be said that the gasoline-powered vehicle’s fuel economy is also excellent enough.

    　Of course, the beauty of hybrids is not just their high fuel economy. It is also nice to be able to experience the quality that comes with the price difference.

    　By taking advantage of the characteristics of the motor that produces high torque from low speeds, the e-SMART Hybrid’s responsive and smooth driving feel and quietness are sure to be felt.

    　The difference is significant for the owner, and will increase the satisfaction of ownership.

    　When choosing between the two powertrains, it is advisable to visit a dealership to compare and experience the characteristics of each before making a decision.

    * * * *

    　Toyota’s compact SUV lineup includes the Yaris Cross, which is available with a hybrid system.

    　This model is the HYBRID X (2WD) starting at 2,284,000 yen, which is also in the same price range as the Rocky/Rise e-SMART Hybrid models.

    　The Yaris Cross Hybrid’s catalog fuel economy is 30.8 km/L (WLTC mode fuel economy) for the HYBRID X (2WD), which is even better than the Rocky/Rise e-SMART Hybrid model.

    　Applying the previous calculation, the gasoline consumption for 50,000 km on the road is approximately 275,487 yen.

    　If you value not only low fuel consumption but also the feeling of driving on a motor that only a hybrid can provide, you may need to compare the Yaris Cross Hybrid as well.”

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    SUV with black emphasis!Daihatsu announces new “Rocky ADS” The fearless design is cool .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “SUV with black emphasis! Daihatsu Announces New “”Rocky ADS”” at Nuns! Cool fearless design!

    What is “”Rocky”” with an emphasis on a black feel?
    　Daihatsu’s Indonesian subsidiary has unveiled a modified version of the “”Rocky”” compact SUV at the Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) 2022, which opened in Jakarta (August 11-21, 2010).

    The black-emphasized grille is cool! What does the new Daihatsu “”Rocky ADS”” look like? See in pictures
    　The new “”ADS”” version, which can be selected for each grade, features a new design.

    The improved “”Rocky”” model (Indonesian specifications) unveiled at the Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) 2022

    　The improved Rocky ADS model to be sold in Indonesia adopts a black-based design.

    　The black front grille, outer mirrors, and 16-inch black aluminum wheels (available on certain grades only) give it a fearless SUV-like appearance.

    　Some body colors have also been changed.

    　The Indonesian version of the Rocky will be equipped with either a 1-liter turbo engine or a 1.2-liter NA engine, and will be priced between 205.2 million and 273.6 million rupiah (approximately 1.86 million and 2.47 million yen).

    ” “SUV with black emphasis! Daihatsu Announces New “”Rocky ADS”” at Nuns! Cool fearless design!

    What is “”Rocky”” with an emphasis on a black feel?
    　Daihatsu’s Indonesian subsidiary has unveiled a modified version of the “”Rocky”” compact SUV at the Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) 2022, which opened in Jakarta (August 11-21, 2010).

    The black-emphasized grille is cool! What does the new Daihatsu “”Rocky ADS”” look like? See in pictures
    　The new “”ADS”” version, which can be selected for each grade, features a new design.

    The improved “”Rocky”” model (Indonesian specifications) unveiled at the Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) 2022

    　The improved Rocky ADS model to be sold in Indonesia adopts a black-based design.

    　The black front grille, outer mirrors, and 16-inch black aluminum wheels (available on certain grades only) give it a fearless SUV-like appearance.

    　Some body colors have also been changed.

    　The Indonesian version of the Rocky will be equipped with either a 1-liter turbo engine or a 1.2-liter NA engine, and will be priced between 205.2 million and 273.6 million rupiah (approximately 1.86 million and 2.47 million yen).

    “

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    Daihatsu Shiga No. 2 Factory partially suspended in July … Affects production of Rocky and Tanto

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Daihatsu Shiga Plant No.2 to partially halt operations in July…Production of the Rocky, Tanto and other models affected20 June 21, 2010, 08:30

    Daihatsu Motor Co. announced that its Shiga (Ryuoh) No.2 plant will partially suspend operations in July due to a shortage of parts supply from suppliers.

    The Shiga No. 2 Plant will suspend operations for seven days from July 4 to 8, 14, and 15, for a total of 14 shifts. The plant produces the Daihatsu “”Rocky”” / Toyota “”Rise””, Daihatsu “”Tanto”” / Subaru “”Chiffon””, and Daihatsu “”Move Canvas””.”

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    The ancestor is a compact car ! Daihatsu’s first “Rocky” was a cool off-road vehicle!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Your Ancestor was a Compact XC Car! Daihatsu’s first generation “”Rocky”” was a cool off-roader!

    The first “”Rocky”” is a hot compact XC!
    　In recent years, the popularity of SUVs has progressed on a global scale and is now in full boom. Japanese manufacturers are also offering models in various segments and price ranges, with SUVs making up the majority of new models.

    See the very rare XC vehicles Daihatsu used to sell .

    Daihatsu’s first generation “”Rocky”” was a compact and stylish XC vehicle!

    　In the domestic market, the Toyota Rise, a compact SUV launched in November 2019, has always been one of the top selling SUVs in the Japanese market.

    　The Rise was jointly developed by Toyota and Daihatsu, and the Daihatsu brand has added a sister model, the Rocky, to its lineup, with a hybrid model joining the lineup in November 2021, further increasing its popularity.

    　The name “”Rocky”” has been used for models sold in the past, and the current model is the second generation, but the first generation was also quite a unique model.

    　Here is a look back at what the first-generation Rocky was like.

    * * * *

    　The first generation Rocky was born in June 1990, at the height of the bubble economy. The name was derived from the image of the West Coast of the United States from the Rocky Mountains.

    　The body size was 3800 mm (overall length) x 1635 mm (overall width) x 1725 mm (overall height), a compact size that matched the road conditions of Japan. The body type was the three-door “”Regent””.

    　The body type was the three-door “”Resin Top”” with seating for four passengers only. The rear of the cabin was a resin canopy that could be removed from the rear roof to the side windows, allowing the driver to enjoy open-air driving.

    　The vehicle was developed as a genuine cross-country vehicle, built on a full-fledged ladder frame, and was a global car that was also marketed in North America and Europe.

    　It was equipped only with a 1.6-liter inline 4-cylinder SOHC gasoline engine with a maximum output of 105 hp and a 5-speed manual transmission, but a 4-speed automatic transmission was added with a minor change in March 1992.

    　The lineup of drive systems included full-time 4WD, which was rare among XC cars at the time, and part-time 4WD with manual transfer, but these were integrated into the part-time 4WD system when the AT model was introduced.

    　The suspension was double wishbone with torsion bar springs in the front and a rigid axle with leaf springs in the rear, emphasizing durability when driving on rough roads.

    　The compact body made it lightweight for an XC vehicle, with all grades weighing around 1,250 kg, and it boasted high rough road drivability.

    　The first-generation Rocky gained a certain level of popularity as a compact XC vehicle, but lost market share to the Suzuki Jimny 1300 (later renamed the Jimny Sierra) and the later Mitsubishi Pajero Junior, and production ended in 1997. Then, as mentioned above, it was revived after 22 years.

    * * *

    　When the first-generation Rocky was being sold, Daihatsu was also marketing another compact XC car, the Ruger.

    　The Ruger, launched in 1984, had a slightly larger body than the Rocky, but the standard version was still within the 5-number size range.

    　Production of the Ruger also ended in 1997, but it was a very luxurious time when Daihatsu sold two XC cars at the same time.”

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    Daihatsu Shiga No. 2 Factory, which manufactures Rocky, etc., shut down due to lack of parts supply … April 1st and 4th .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Daihatsu Shiga Plant No.2, which manufactures Rocky and other products, suspends operations due to parts supply shortage…April 1 and 4, 2022 6:15 p.m.

    Daihatsu Rocky
    Daihatsu Rocky Toyota Rise
    Daihatsu Motor Co. has announced that its Shiga (Ryuoh) Plant No. 2 will suspend operations for two days (four shifts) on Friday, April 1 and Monday, April 4 due to a shortage of parts supply from suppliers.

    Shiga Plant No.2 manufactures Daihatsu “”Rocky””, Toyota “”Rise””, Daihatsu “”Tanto””, Subaru “”Chiffon””, and Daihatsu “”Move Canvas””.

    Other plants will continue to operate as usual.”