The Perodua Ativa has been a hit in Malaysia, much like its donor twins, the Daihatsu Rocky and Toyota Raize in Japan and Indonesia. However, the models have been introduced in Japan back in 2019 and thus, it gets a slight update along with the addition of a hybrid variant.

Back in June, we reported that Daihatsu was planning to expand its hybrid model range and this included the popular Rocky/Raize twins. Instead of sharing a similar hybrid system on existing models, the compact SUV utilises a brand-new system.

Powering the hybrid Rocky/Raize is a 1.2-litre e-Smart hybrid system that produces 106 PS and 170 Nm. This hybrid powertrain works similar to the Nissan e-Power hybrid system in which it’s a full-hybrid (series) system.

In addition to the hybrid powertrain and the existing turbocharged 1.0-litre KR-VET, the updated Raize and Rocky is also available with a naturally-aspirated 1.2-litre WA-VE engine that made its debut in Indonesia. Unlike in the archipelago, the 1.2-litre units in Japan are only paired to a CVT automatic.

Also read: The most popular Daihatsu Rocky (Perodua Ativa) variant in Indonesia is also the most expensive

This 1.2-litre engine is also used in the e-Smart hybrid system using the code WA-VEX. Basically, the engine only serves as an on-board generator and instead, an electric motor is used to drive the front wheels.

Hence, it doesn’t really need a transmission to power the SUV, much like a proper electric vehicle (EV).

As such, the Rocky/Raize e-Smart offers the same feeling of an EV with smooth acceleration and maximum torque. Daihatsu and Toyota claim the hybrid variants offer among the lowest fuel consumption in their class with an average of 28 km/L based on WLTC tests.

Also read: At least 10 new DNGA-based Daihatsu models planned for emerging markets; hybrids and EVs too

Another feature that sounds similar to what is used on some of Nissan e-Power models is the one-pedal feature. Toyota and Daihatsu call this the Smart Pedal (S-PDL) and the driver can simply accelerate and brake by using only the accelerator pedal.

There are also some minor changes in design for the Rocky e-Smart variant. The most obvious being the front grille which sports a different design that looks classier. Another difference between the two variants are the wheels, the e-Smart gets five lugs as opposed to the petrol variants' four-lug design.

Other features that is gained by the updated Rocky and Raize are the electric parking brake (EPB) and low-speed follow. In terms of drivetrain, the only variants with all-wheel-drive are those with the turbocharged 1.0-litre unit.

The 1.2-litre hybrid and non-hybrid variants are only available with front-wheel-drive.

Just like the updated Toyota Aqua (Prius C) and the Japanese-spec Corolla Cross Hybrid, the Rocky and Raize e-Smart come with an Emergency Power Supply Mode that turns the SUVs into back-up generators for emergencies.

Also read: Toyota Corolla Cross launched in Japan – Hybrid doubles as a powerbank, adds panoramic sunroof

Both the Toyota Raize and Daihatsu Rocky are available with 8 and 5 variants respectively. Prices for the Toyota Raize e-Smart starts from JPY 2.163 million (~RM 78k) while the Daihatsu Rocky e-Smart surprisingly starts less, from JPY 2.116 million (~RM 77k).

Also read: The Daihatsu Rocky is more expensive than the Toyota Raize, why?

Though a Daihatsu Rocky e-Smart was spotted in Malaysia, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the Perodua Ativa will get a hybrid very soon. Malaysians are generally adamant when it comes to hybrid-electric vehicles (HEVs) but if a local player like Perodua starts introducing an affordable hybrid, perhaps more Malaysians will have confidence in getting one.

Also read: Rich man’s EVs are tax free, but common man’s hybrids are not – here’s why