Perodua new SUV - A reality or just another rumour?

Perodua, the name doesn’t need an introduction. However, for the sake of formality and taking care of a few exceptions, we’ll say that it is one of the most famous and renowned Malaysian auto brands that’s been in business from 1992. Moving one, the current Perodua lineup in Malaysia includes two hatchbacks - Axia and Myvi, one sedan that goes by the name Bezza, and wrapping the deal is the Alza MPV. Don’t you feel something is missing from the lot? Something that will fit like the last piece in a jig-saw puzzle. Well, if someone asks us, we’ll say bring an SUV and complete the family.

However, it was not always like this, Perodua in the initial years gained its share of experience in the SUV segment. It sold the Kembara from 1998 to 2008 and the Nautica from 2008 to 2010. Post that nothing and this fact makes us believe/think/wounder (so many feeling at once) of a promised place for an SUV in Perodua’s lineup. More so, after the announcement of Proton X70, the first SUV coming from Perodua’s Malaysian counterpart.

Also, with the Kuala Lumpur Motor Show coming after five years, it makes for a perfect scenario for Perodua to launch its version of the X70. If our memory and database serves us right, the rumors around the new Perodua SUV have been going around for a while, say from the beginning of this year. We even remember the ‘red car’ that was said to be the rendered image of Perodua’s next SUV. Later Dr. Zahari Husin, Perodua’s Sales Managing Director dispelled its authenticity. However, he also said that the SUV segment is the perfect venture for the company to invest its time and money in, as its popularity amongst the buyers cannot be overlooked.

Further tieing our hopes once again, he said that the company is capable enough to develop the upper body design of a new car best suiting the requirements of the Malaysian buyer. As for the platform and chassis related elements, all these can be shared with Daihatsu like in the case of the past two Perodua SUVs.

Another incident that makes us hard to banish these rumours is one particular report that talked about MBM Resources Bhd getting an offer letter from UMW Holding Bhd. What makes the matter interesting, is the fact that MBM Resources is involved in the distribution and dealership of Daihatsu (the brand we think Perodua SUV would be based upon).

Also, rumours suggest that something is cooking under the Perodua roof. And what we can say for sure is the 2018 KLMS will see something substantial if not big coming from Perodua’s podium.

Stating the above, a few things can be said for sure (or not, who knows) -

• The 2018 KLMS will see great car launches and display, with Perodua too contributing its part
• If not now, in the future Perodua will introduce an SUV, as the market is inclined towards the segment
• Daihatsu will have some role to play in Perodua’s new SUV, be it sharing of platform or a few techs
• As and when introduced, the Perodua SUV will be built as per global standards, giving Perodua to venture its vehicle across the globe

That’s all for now on the rumored Perodua SUV. Stay tuned with Zigwheels to get all the latest updates of the local and international auto market.