Perodua D55L: Features we hope to see in its specs sheet

Perodua has been planning to expand its footprint globally and is emerging as a prominent ASEAN manufacturer. It has a couple of models up its sleeve including the upcoming D55L SUV that will enter the sub-compact space upon its arrival. The compact SUV has already gathered ample attention much before its launch that will happen in the coming months.

While Perodua has not revealed much information about D55L, the Proton X50 rival will be heavily inspired by Daihatsu Rocky and/or Toyota Raize. Reports suggest, the D55L SUV will be based on Daihatsu’s New Global Architecture (DNGA), and will also share components and some parts with it. As for the list of equipment, there is no hint around that from the national carmaker, though we have come up with a list of features that we would like to see in the Perodua D55L.

LED Lighting package

Aesthetic appeal is vital while selecting a car. It is one of the first things that buyers see before zeroing in on a vehicle. While model these days usually carry a contemporary design, some features enlighten the overall look, especially the front. Among all facets, the face leaves the first impression, and headlamps are an important part of it. Speaking in the context of D55L, LED headlamps with LED daytime running lights and LED fog lamps would enhance the overall styling on the D55L. Also, expect LED-equipped rear combination lamps at the back.

Powered wing mirrors

It is something that is becoming common in passenger vehicles and could be a part of the parcel on the D55L. While most of the cars lack power-adjusting function and make do with manual side mirrors, only some get this feature that seems quite useful. However, it remains to be seen if Perodua will offer power-folding function with it along with integrated LED turn signals.

A large touchscreen infotainment unit

Built on a long wheelbase, the spacious cabin will feature a five-seat layout with decent room for passengers seated at the front and back. While space is important, connectivity and infotainment features are becoming popular these days. A touchscreen unit is on the top of the checklist while selecting a new car, and we expect D55L to get one.

Smartphone connectivity

With smartphone devices becoming a household thing, Apple CarPlay and Android auto are a must in modern vehicles. Not all cars feature both, some come with either Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, Smart Link Mirror and SYNC connectivity are some other connectivity systems that are offered by carmakers. As for Perodua D55L, it could equip an advanced infotainment system with a large 9.0-inch display.

Powered driver’s seat

Sitting behind the steering wheel requires focus, and a comfortable position is a must. Adjusting the driver’s seat manually could be a bit challenging, though powered seats are more feasible for drivers as it doesn’t require much effort. This feature is usually left out in subcompact models, though it would enrich the feature list on the new Perodua D55L if it gets it.

Climate control

A climate control system controls the temperature of a vehicle accurately. Users can set the temperature, and the system automatically adjusts the speed and air accordingly in the cabin. Most of the premium models come with this feature and we hope to see it in the upcoming Perodua D55L also.

Turbocharged petrol engine

Turbocharged engines are a rage in the automotive industry globally, and low displacing units can churn out more power than high capacity motors powering larger vehicles. A low displacing turbocharged engine would do justice to D55L, and a CVT gearbox would be a cherry on the top.

Multiple airbags

An airbag is a crucial preventive safety measure in passenger vehicles, and it is part of the standard safety kit in almost all vehicles. While dual frontal airbags are common, not all cars get side-bags and curtain-bags. Hopefully, the D55L will come with these additional airbags to provide extra cushioning to the occupants, ensuring a protective shielding.

Adaptive cruise control

Adaptive cruise control adjusts vehicle speed automatically to maintain a safe distance from the cars moving ahead. This is a crucial driver assistance feature, which is useful during long-distance journeys. SUVs in this league get this feature on the top-spec variants, and it would be great to see this equipped in the higher grades in D55L line-up.

Perodua’s Advanced Safety Assist (ASA) 2.0

The Advanced Safety Assist 2.0 is offered with the all-new Perodua models launched lately and we expect upcoming D55L to get it in the higher variants, if not in lower grades. The ASA 2.0 is a set of driver assistance features comprising Pedestrian Detection (up to 50 km/h), Pre-Collision Warning (up to 100 km/h), Pre-Collision Braking (up to 80 km/h), Front Departure Alert and Pedal Misoperation Control. It was first introduced in Myvi facelift, followed by other models in Perodua line-up.

The list of features mentioned above is based on features offered in this price bracket and segment, the actual details will be revealed at the official launch.

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