Peter Lyon
February 15, 2024
Perodua has a surprise for Malaysia’s SUV fans. The automotive world is buzzing with rumours as the unveiling of the Perodua D66B, dubbed the Nexis, draws near. This could be Perodua’s most ambitious project to date.
Although the carmaker is remaining tight-lipped about pricing, we expect the price range to start from RM70,000 for the entry model and spread up to around RM100,000 for the flagship version which could well offer a hybrid option.
The Nexis’ powertrain is expected to be a 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine producing 105 hp and 138 Nm of torque and mated to a CVT transmission. It will also offer a hybrid system spec, employing a 1.5 litre four-cylinder with 91 ps and 121 Nm and an electric motor rated at 80 ps and 141 Nm, the latter employing a lithium-ion battery.
The generally held belief that a new Perodua SUV will land in showrooms this year is reinforced by the highly-anticipated April launch of the Nexis, which was hinted at by Kenanga Research. This debut just happened to coincide with the release of the Toyota Yaris Cross, which is effectively its sibling.
Taking design cues from other joint releases that Perodua and Toyota have done, like the Veloz and Alza in 2022, both cars are usually unveiled over the course of two months, with the Perodua model being unveiled first.
But now we’re focused on the Perodua SUV, which might revolutionise the Malaysian auto industry. Let’s examine the specifics and the hype around this highly anticipated model.
From what we are hearing, the Perodua D66B/Nexis SUV is based on the Daihatsu New Global Architecture (DNGA) platform, a flexible foundation shared with the like the Toyota Vios, Perodua Axia, and even the Perodua Ativa.
This platform delivers better safety levels, fuel efficiency, and driving performance because of its well-known balance of rigidity and lightweight design.
Inside, the Nexis is rumored to offer a tech-savvy cabin with features like a touchscreen infotainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a digital instrument cluster, and automatic climate control.
If it follows the pricing strategy of the Ativa, which starts at around RM 62,500 for the base model, the Nexis is expected to be priced slightly higher, reflecting additional features.
A speculative price range could start from slightly above RM 70,000 to under RM 100,000 for higher-end variants, especially if a hybrid option is introduced.
CARLIST THOUGHTS
With its combination of modern design, advanced powertrain options, cutting-edge safety features, and a comfortable, connected interior, the Nexis is poised to set new benchmarks in its segment. And more than anything, that price range looks very appealing.
