Toyota Raize/Daihatsu Rocky, see its transformation from concept to production

Back at the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show, Daihatsu showcased the DN Trec concept, a concept SUV that embodied the “active, fun, tough” theme.

Let’s take a closer look and see how much the DN Trec evolved from a concept car into the Toyota Raize/Daihatsu Rocky.

From the exterior, Daihatsu refined much of the design elements on the DN Trec to give it a more angular and rugged design, as keywords they uncovered after conducting a survey on younger buyers included “active” and “power”. Back then, many speculated that the DN Trec could point to the return of the Perodua Kembara/5-seater Terios. We now know the production car as the Daihatsu Rocky/Toyota Raize, and for now, the yet-to-be named Perodua D55L.

Despite being completely redesigned, some design elements like the raised window line towards the rear of the DN Trec and black A-pillars were carried over to the Raize/Rocky. The same can be said for the rear, as much of the design elements got carried over from the DN Trec, but were refined on the Raize/Rocky. In fact, the Raize/Rocky's rear end is curiously reminiscent of the Perodua Myvi.

A quick glance at both the DN Trec and Raize’s interior may not reveal any similarities, but upon closer inspection, Daihatsu did carry over some design traits, like the orange highlights on the air-conditioning vents, seats, and centre console. The Rocky/Raize also gets a raised gear lever, much like the Honda HR-V, though it remains to be seen if the Perodua D55L offers the same feature.

Closer to home, Perodua is expected to introduce the D55L later this year. The yet-to-be named D55L is said to feature a number of firsts for Perodua, including the DNGA platform, a turbocharged engine, as well as a CVT-type automatic.