All-New DNGA-Based Perodua Alza Replacement In The Works?

We know that Perodua is developing a new seven-seater SUV, codenamed D38L, which brings up the question of whether Perodua will retain the 5+2 seater Alza. Perodua is famed for its very lean product line-up, selling over 200,000 cars annually with just four models. The next question to ask is whether Perodua will maintain two slightly overlapping three-row seats vehicles. Chatter in the marketplace suggest that the answer is yes.

The Perodua Alza is currently the company’s oldest model, as the model was launched way back in late 2009. The Alza is based on the Japanese market Daihatsu Boon Luminas (also sold as the Toyota Passo Sette) that was launched a decade ago. 

Rumours in the marketplace are saying that Perodua is still working on the replacement of the Alza, codenamed D53L. The all-new Alza will be sold alongside the upcoming seven-seater D38L SUV.  

Sources familiar with the matter say that the all-new Alza replacement model will be built on the company's latest Daihatsu New Global Architecture (DNGA), which currently underpins the all-new Japanese market Daihatsu Boon and Mira e:S. The Daihatsu Boon is also rebadged as the Toyota Passo. 

If the DNGA name sounds familiar, you're not wrong, as the DNGA platform is a derivative of Toyota's excellent TNGA platform. Development of DNGA is led by Daihatsu, working under the new Emerging-market Compact Car Company, an internal company established by Toyota and Daihatsu back in January 2017. 

While details of the powertrain remain to be seen, there is a possibility that the all-new Alza will be powered by the same 1.5-litre Dual VVT-i engine found in the Myvi, mated to either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic. Additionally, safety equipment in the all-new model is expected to mirror that of the Myvi, with up to six airbags on the highest variant. 

Considering that development work is still in early stage, the all-new model is expected to be launched only after 2020. 

We still don't know what will the D53L look like but at the last Gaikindo International Auto Show in Jakarta, Daihatsu did showcase the DN MultiSix Concept - a front-wheel drive three-row seat utility vehicle. Judging from past experience, several Daihatsu concept cars that were shown in Jakarta have made it into production. The Ayla, Sigra, and Terios were the most recent examples.