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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.