If the new Alza looks anything close to this, Perodua might have another best seller
Having been on the market since 2009, Perodua’s B-segment MPV, the Alza is long overdue for replacement. Reports have surfaced over the last few years about the automaker’s next people carrier, with majority of them saying it will be utilising the Daihatsu New Global Architecture (DNGA) platform, but it is not until now that we get the best look at what could be the second generation Alza.
The new Alza could be based on a new seven-seater minivan from Daihatsu, which according to bestcarweb.jp, is set to be launched in October this year. Detailed information is scarce at the time of writing but there is a high possibility that the new model is underpinned by the DNGA platform. After all, following the Rocky and the recently launched Ativa, it makes absolute sense for the Japanese automaker to be using the same platform for another compact vehicle.
The website goes on to state that the minivan could be offered with a choice of two engines, namely a 1.5-litre hybrid from Toyota and Daihatsu’s own 1.3-litre mild-hybrid. The former could turn out to be the three-litre Dynamic Force mill sourced from Toyota Yaris Cross, which generates a combined output of 116 PS.
For what it’s worth, the next Alza could adopt either of these two powertrains, making it Perodua’s first ever hybrid. We say this because Perodua chairman and chief executive officer Datuk Zainal Abidin Ahmad has previously hinted at the idea of electrification, although nothing is set in stone yet.
As for design, the rendered image of the green minivan featured above offers a glimpse of what Daihatsu’s upcoming vehicle might look like. There’s a lot to like about the design to be honest, from the prominent hexagonal grille, to the sculptured bumper, to the rugged body cladding. The minivan will likely come with sliding doors, as they are more cost effective because then Daihatsu will be able to share the body panels with the Thor.
In terms of dimensions, bestcarweb says the minivan is 4,100 mm long, 1,680 mm wide, 1,700 mm, while the wheelbase is set at 2,710 mm. If this is to be believed, it is 120 mm shorter, 15 mm narrower and 80 mm taller than the Alza. The wheelbase is also shorter by 40 mm.
The website does say that it is shorter and narrower than the Sienta by 135 mm and 15 mm to be exact. However, the evidently taller greenhouse means Daihatsu’s next minivan offers a bit more headroom for the passengers and cargo. This could be the deal-clincher for those who are in the market for a budget MPV.
