Daihatsu Rocky has just been launched in Indonesia, ahead of its Toyota Raize sibling. The compact SUV is poised to become a hot commodity in the archipelago as a new entrant in the burgeoning crossover segment. Pricing starts at IDR 214 million and tops out at IDR 236 million.
Styling-wise, the Rocky takes after the
Japanese-market model almost entirely, with a large hexagonal grille and
angular front and rear bumpers, plus the same LED headlights and 17-inch
six-spoke two-tone alloy wheels fitted as standard across the range. The door
mirrors, however, are the more streamlined items replete
with noise-reducing aero fins.
There
are also no LED daytime running lights on the bumper corners, unlike the
Japanese car – not even on the range-topper. Buyers can also opt for the ADS
package that adds a thick chrome grille surround reminiscent of the facelifted
previous-generation Audi Q3, along with a red grille strip, front, side and
rear skid plates, black door mouldings with ADS badging and a chrome strip on
the black tailgate bar.
Inside, the Rocky is again very similar to the Japanese car, sporting the same dashboard, seven-inch digital instrument display and a floating infotainment touchscreen. The central display measures nine inches across but it adds a USB port on the side and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. Also fitted are six speakers and push-button digital air-conditioning controls. Keyless entry, push-button start, fabric upholstery and a reverse camera come as standard.
Safety is one area where the Indonesian Rocky has been downgraded significantly from the Japanese-market model. The Advanced Safety Assist (ASA) suite of driver assists is an optional extra, not a standard feature; as on the other cars, it incorporates autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping assist, front departure alert and pedal misapplication control. The Rocky only comes with two airbags, although stability control and seat belt reminders on all seats are standard.
Mechanically, the Rocky is mostly similar to its other counterparts. At launch, the sole engine option is a 1KR-VET 1.0 litre turbocharged three-cylinder producing 98 PS at 6,000 rpm and 140 Nm of torque from 2,400 to 4,000 rpm. However, the Indonesian-market model benefits from the option of a five-speed manual gearbox on top of the usual CVT, although the ASA model is only available with the auto. Later on, Daihatsu will offer a new WA-VE 1.2 litre naturally-aspirated three-cylinder, making 86 PS at 6,000 rpm and 105 Nm at 4,200 rpm and offered with the same manual and CVT.
