Perodua is teasing
an all-new mystery model that is currently hidden away inside what is
essentially a big box. Aside from the tagline on said box that reads “something
exciting is coming soon,” Perodua refers to its new creation as a new “sport
utility mobile.”
Fortunately, we do
get to see glimpses of the model through a few carefully drilled holes and
partially transparent fabric, giving us some idea what it might be. We can speculate that this will be Perodua’s upcoming SUV
codenamed D38L.
Perodua SUV appears to be based on the latest Toyota Rush/Daihatsu Terios,
although we expect some design revisions (bumpers, grille, wheels, etc.) to
differentiate them. As far as we can tell, the look of the SUV’s headlamps,
taillights and side mirrors are all almost identical to what you’ll find on the
Terios.
However, going on the premise that the Perodua SUV is
indeed Terios-based, we should expect seating for up to seven. Like the exterior,
the cabin should be similar to the Terios, which curiously already comes with
Perodua-esque touches like the handbag hook, driver seat USB charging port and
others.
As for what’s under
the bonnet, a strong likelihood is a 2NR-VE 1.5 litre naturally-aspirated
four-cylinder petrol engine with Dual VVT-i, which is found in the Rush/Terios, Avanza
and the Myvi. Output figures for the mill are 105 PS at 6,000 rpm and 136 Nm of
torque at 4,200 rpm, with drive going to the rear wheels via a
four-speed torque converter automatic.
