Toyota’s popular compact minivan, the Roomy, will undergo a full model change in June 2027 and will be released equipped with the company’s first hybrid model, the e-SMART HYBRID. The Roomy has long been loved for its spacious interior and affordable price, but it is finally evolving into a next-generation model. The focus is on the series’ first e-SMART HYBRID system, which will significantly improve fuel efficiency and dramatically improve quietness and driving performance.
The current model was released in November 2016, and this will be the first full model change in about 11 years. What kind of changes will it undergo? In this article, we will provide detailed information on the latest information regarding the full model change of the new Roomy, including the exterior and interior design, powertrain, and advanced safety technology.
Summary of information on the new Roomy full model change
Key points of the full model change
- First hybrid model equipped with “e-SMART HYBRID”
- Renewed exterior design (keep concept)
- Renewed interior design
- Equipped with the latest advanced safety technology
Exterior
- Body size: Overall length 3,730mm (+30mm), overall width 1,670mm (+25mm), overall height 1,735mm (+0mm), wheelbase 2,520mm (+30mm)
- Large radiator grille
- DRL (Daytime Running Light) “Signature Lamp” adopted
- Standard model and custom model
interior
- 10.5-inch smartphone-linked display audio
- Compatible with SmartDeviceLink, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto
- Electric parking brake
- Auto Brake Hold
Powertrain
- Hybrid system: e-SMART HYBRID
- 1.2L inline 3-cylinder engine (power generation only) + motor
- Series hybrid system
- Estimated WLCT mode fuel economy: 27.0km/L (2WD)
- Gasoline model: 1.2L inline 3-cylinder engine
Advanced safety technology
- Next-generation Smart Assist
- Stereo camera
- Collision warning function
- Collision avoidance assist brake function
- Lane Departure Prevention Control Function
- Preceding vehicle departure notification function
- Smart Assist Plus (optional)
- ACC with full-speed tracking function
- Lane Keep Control
- Smart Panorama Parking Assist
price
- Hybrid model: 2.16 million to 2.33 million yen
others
- Release postponed due to Daihatsu fraud scandal
- Adopts Daihatsu’s DNGA platform
- Daihatsu Connect adopted
Release date
- Scheduled for release after June 2027
The new Roomy full model change will be postponed until after June 2027
It has now been eight years since its release, and it was originally scheduled for a full model change at the end of 2023 or 2024. However, due to the Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd. fraud scandal that occurred in December 2023 , the plan was delayed and it was expected to be pushed back to 2025. However, the new car development project has been significantly revised, and the Nikkan Jidosha Shimbun reported on July 11, 2024 that it will now be after June 2027 .
Roomy: 10 fraudulent cases uncovered by third-party committee
On December 20, 2023, the investigation revealed that in addition to the door trim irregularities in April and the pole side impact test irregularities in May, there had been 174 new irregularities in 25 test items. In response to the results of the investigation, Daihatsu decided to temporarily halt shipments of all Daihatsu-developed vehicles currently in production. The Roomy was found to have been affected by 10 of the irregularities.
- Pedestrian head and leg protection test fraud
- Rear-end crash test fraud
- Cheating in cargo shift prevention tests
- Cheating on seat belt tests
- Cheating on exterior noise tests
- Brake system test fraud
- Cheating in headlamp leveling tests
- Cheating in demisting tests using defrosters
- Cheating on speedometer tests
- Fraudulent conduct in engine on-board power certification tests
On March 15, 2024, it was announced that the suspension of shipments of three models, the Daihatsu Thor, Toyota Roomy, and Subaru Justy, would be lifted after it was confirmed that they comply with the standards of the Road Transport Vehicle Act . Production of the three models, the Daihatsu Thor, Toyota Roomy, and Subaru Justy, resumed on Friday, April 19, 2024 .
About the new Roomy full model change
The exterior design will be revamped while maintaining the same concept, with the front bumper having a more distinctive design. It is expected to feature a large radiator grille and ” signature lamps ” that are DRLs (daytime running lights) . The next-generation Roomy will have sliding doors on both sides. The interior will also be completely revamped, with a redesigned instrument panel that will improve usability and increase storage space . It will also feature a ” 10.5-inch smartphone-linked display audio ” that will allow apps compatible with “SmartDeviceLink,” “Apple CarPlay,” and “Android Auto” to be operated on the display. An “electric parking brake” and “auto brake hold” will also be adopted.
Daihatsu will be in charge of design, development, and production, and the car will feature the ” Daihatsu Connect ” service, which links car navigation systems with smartphones, and Daihatsu’s ” DNGA platform .” Furthermore, the hybrid system will be ” e-SMART HYBRID ,” and the advanced technology ” Next Generation Smart Assist ” will be introduced.
About the new Roomy full model change exterior
The basic exterior design concept is likely to be the same. As it will be a tall wagon type that fits within the 5-number size, the body size is expected to be approximately 3,730mm in length (+30mm), 1,670mm in width (+25mm), 1,735mm in height (+0mm), and 2,520mm in wheelbase (+30mm). This should allow for more interior space by slightly increasing the wheelbase, length, and width. In addition, the front bumper will have a more emphasized design, and if a large radiator grille and “signature lamps” (DRLs) are adopted, the design will be completely revamped, which could potentially make it an even more popular model.
Toyota Roomy predicted CG image
Like the previous model, the next-generation Roomy will be available in a standard model and a custom model, with the custom model having different instrument panels, seats, and functions. The custom model will have plating and special bumpers not found on the standard model, making it a more luxurious model than the standard model.
Alphard-style front face
The exterior design of the new Roomy has been completely revamped to give it a more powerful and high-quality impression .
Major cosmetic changes:
- Large plated grille
- Sharp LED headlights
- Strong sideline
- Newly designed aluminum wheels
New Roomy Fully Redesigned Interior
Move Canvas
The interior has also been completely redesigned, and a 10.5- inch smartphone-linked display audio system has been adopted. Apps compatible with SmartDeviceLink, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto can be operated on the display. The car also features Daihatsu Connect , a service that connects car navigation systems to smartphones.
Improved convenience with a large 10-inch display
The interior will also undergo a major upgrade.
Key interior improvements include:
- 10-inch large display audio
- Add a USB Type-C port
- Improved texture of interior materials
- Use of materials to improve quietness
Connected functions have also been significantly improved
Additional comfort features:
- SmartDeviceLink compatible
- Apple CarPlay/Android Auto standard equipment
- Vehicle remote control function
- Real-time traffic information
About the new Roomy Hybrid “e-SMART HYBRID” system
The powertrain of the next-generation Roomy will use the e-SMART HYBRID hybrid system, just like the Raize Hybrid released on November 1, 2021. The e-SMART HYBRID system is composed of a newly developed 1.2L inline 3-cylinder engine (WA-VEX) + motor , with the engine used only for power generation. It uses a series hybrid system that uses the electricity generated by the motor to run the vehicle 100% . Its small displacement allows for a simple structure and compact size. It is a hybrid system that excels at low and medium speeds, making it suitable for small cars that are frequently used for city driving. It achieves incredible fuel economy of 27.0km/L (2WD) in WLCT mode.
The generator engine is a 1.2L inline three-cylinder engine (WA-VEX) with a maximum output of 60kW (82ps) at 5,600 rpm and 105Nm (10.7kgfm) at 3,200-5,200 rpm. The drive motor delivers a maximum output of 78kW (106ps) and a maximum torque of 170Nm (17.4kgm). The torque allows for driving that takes advantage of the motor’s characteristics. Vehicle speed can be controlled solely by operating the accelerator. The vehicle is equipped with a “Smart Pedal (S-PDL)” system, which reduces the frequency of switching from accelerator to brake during repeated acceleration and deceleration in city streets and downhill sections, reducing driver burden and providing a more comfortable ride. With this engine, fuel economy in the WLCT mode is expected to be around 27.0km/L .
Series hybrid achieves both quietness and fuel efficiency
The e-SMART HYBRID installed in the new Roomy is a series hybrid system similar to Nissan’s e-POWER.
Main features:
- The engine is used exclusively for power generation
- The motor is responsible for the actual driving
- Smooth acceleration from low to high speeds
- Quietness that makes engine noise almost unnoticeable
Fuel economy is 27.0km/L in WLTC mode.
Expected fuel economy:
- Hybrid specification: WLTC mode 25.0-30.0km/L
- Conventional gasoline specification: WLTC mode 16.8km/L
This improvement in fuel efficiency is expected to result in annual savings of approximately 30,000 to 50,000 yen in gasoline costs .
Powertrain detailed specifications
| item | e-SMART HYBRID | Conventional gasoline specifications |
|---|---|---|
| engine | 1.2L 3-cylinder (60kW/82ps) | 1.2L 3-cylinder (64kW/87ps) |
| motor | 78kW/106ps | – |
| Motor torque | 170Nm/17.4kgm | – |
| Fuel economy (WLTC) | 27.0km/L | 16.8km/L |
| Price difference | +approx. 300,000 yen | Base Price |
New Roomy comes standard with advanced technology “Next Generation Smart Assist”
Daihatsu’s preventive safety feature “Smart Assist” is equipped with two cameras and has evolved into “Next Generation Smart Assist.” Functions such as “ACC with full-speed tracking function” and “Lane Keep Assist” have been added, significantly improving safety.
The adoption of a stereo camera has enabled pedestrian detection and an expanded operating speed range. A full range of safety features are standard, including collision warning, collision avoidance assist braking, lane departure prevention control, and preceding vehicle departure notification.
Equipped with two corner sensors at the front and rear of the vehicle , the further evolved “Next Generation Smart Assist” helps avoid accidents in close calls while driving, supporting your safe driving. In addition to sonar sensors, the car is newly equipped with the world’s smallest stereo camera, which does not obstruct the driver’s field of vision or headroom. It accurately captures various information such as pedestrians, preceding vehicles, and obstacles, and warns the driver or activates emergency braking.
Collision Warning Function / Collision Avoidance Assist Brake Function ① Collision Warning (Vehicle-to-Vehicle, Pedestrian-to-Pedestrian) While driving, the camera detects vehicles or pedestrians ahead, and if it determines there is a risk of collision, it will sound a buzzer and display the warning in the meter.
② Primary Braking (Vehicle-to-Pedestrian) If the system determines there is a risk of collision, it will automatically apply light brakes (primary brakes) to urge the driver to avoid the collision.
③ Damage Reduction Brake Assist (Vehicle-to-Pedestrian) If the driver applies the brakes while the primary braking function is activated, the brake assist will activate and increase braking force.
④ Emergency Braking (Vehicle-to-Pedestrian) If the system determines that a collision is unavoidable, it will apply heavy brakes (secondary brakes) to slow down the vehicle, avoiding a collision or reducing damage.
Lane Departure Prevention Function: If the vehicle is about to deviate from its lane without using its turn signal, the system will warn the driver with a buzzer and a display on the meter, prompting them to take action. It will also assist with steering to bring the vehicle back into the lane.
If the preceding vehicle departure notification function is disabled and the driver does not notice that the preceding vehicle has started moving and does not start moving, a buzzer will sound and a display will appear on the meter to notify the driver.
AT False Start Prevention Control + False Start Prevention with Brake Control ① Forward False Start Prevention Control If the stereo camera detects an obstacle such as a vehicle or wall within 4m ahead and the accelerator pedal is pressed with the shift position in “forward”, the engine output will be limited to prevent sudden acceleration. ② Rear False Start Prevention Control If the sonar sensor built into the rear bumper detects an obstacle such as a wall within 2-3m behind and the accelerator pedal is pressed with the shift position in “reverse”, the engine output will be limited to prevent sudden acceleration. Brake control has also been added.
The high beam assist stereo camera detects the brightness of oncoming vehicle headlights and automatically switches between high and low beams. This allows you to drive with high beams without having to switch between them, allowing you to drive safely at night even on roads with few streetlights.
Adaptive Driving Beam: When driving with high beams on, if an oncoming vehicle is detected, the light is automatically blocked only in the area of the oncoming vehicle.
Sign Recognition Function When the stereo camera detects a no entry sign, a notification is displayed in the meter.
New Roomy equipped with advanced technology “Smart Assist Plus” option
ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control) with full-speed following function: The stereo camera detects the speed and distance of the vehicle ahead, maintains the distance and speed between vehicles, and follows the vehicle ahead, controlling it until it comes to a stop.
Lane Keep Control : The stereo camera detects the lane and assists steering to keep the vehicle in the center of the lane.
Parking assistance function “Smart Panorama Parking Assist” The left and right cameras detect the white lines of parking spaces and provide audio and on-screen guidance as well as steering assistance.
Side View Lamps When turning right or left at night, auxiliary lights that illuminate the left and right directions are turned on in addition to the normal headlights, brightly illuminating the direction in which the steering wheel is turned.
Smart Assist Comparison
| Functional Systems | Smart Assist II |
Smart Assist III |
Next-generation Smart Assist |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| method | Laser radar + monocular camera |
Stereo camera | Stereo camera | |
| Automatic Braking Pedestrian |
– Warning only (below 50km/h) |
◯ |
◯ (50km/h or less) |
|
| Automatic braking collision avoidance |
◯ |
◯ |
◯ (30km/h or less) |
|
| Automatic braking damage reduction |
◯ |
◯ |
◯ (80km/h or less, 50km/h or less for pedestrians) |
|
| False start prevention front/rear |
◯ | ◯ (Brake control) |
||
| Lane Departure Warning | ◯ | |||
Notice of advance start |
◯ | |||
| Auto high beam or adaptive high beam system |
– | ◯ | ◯ | |
| Sign recognition function | – | – | ◯ | |
| Corner Sensor | – | – | ◯ | |
| Smart Assist Plus |
Lane Keep Control |
– | – | ◯ |
ACC with full-speed tracking function |
– | – | ◯ | |
| Smart Panorama Parking |
– | – | ◯ | |
| Panoramic Monitor |
– | – | ◯ | |
| Side view lamp |
– | – | ◯ | |
New Roomy Hybrid specs forecast
The new model features a 1.2L inline 3-cylinder direct injection engine and motor “e-SMART HYBRID.” The 1.0L inline 3-cylinder turbo engine has been discontinued and replaced with a 1.2L inline 3-cylinder engine.
| Specifications | New Roomy Hybrid |
New Roomy |
|---|---|---|
| full length | 3,730mm | |
| Overall width | 1,670mm | |
| Overall height | 2,520mm | |
| Wheelbase | 2,490mm | |
| engine | 1.2L inline 3-cylinder direct injection engine + motor |
1.2L inline 3-cylinder engine |
| Maximum power | 60kW (82ps) / 5,600rpm |
64kW (87ps) / 6,000rpm |
| Maximum torque | 105Nm (10.7kgfm) / 3,200-5,200rpm |
113Nm (11.5kgfm) / 4,500rpm |
| Motor maximum output |
78kW (106ps) | – |
| Motor Maximum Torque |
170Nm (17.4kgm) | – |
transmission |
e-SMART HYBRID system |
CVT |
| Drive system | 2WD/4WD | |
| Minimum turning radius | 4.7 to 4.6 m | |
| Tire size | 195/60R17 | |
| Drive system | 2WD | 2WD |
| WLCT mode fuel economy | Approximately 27.0km/L | Approximately 16.8km/L |
Expected price of the new Roomy Hybrid
The price of the new Roomy Hybrid is expected to be in the same range as the Toyota Raize, which is also manufactured by Daihatsu. The current model of the Raize Hybrid is priced between 2,163,000 and 2,328,000 yen, and the Roomy Hybrid is expected to be in a similar price range.
Hybrid models start at the low 2 million yen range
The price of the new Roomy is expected to be higher than the current model due to its improved equipment.
Expected price range:
| Powertrain | Price range (estimated) | Current ratio |
|---|---|---|
| Gasoline model | Approximately 1.75 million to 2.05 million yen | +approximately 200,000 yen |
| Hybrid model | Approximately 2.05 million to 2.35 million yen | New Settings |
Cost recovery possible through eco-car tax reductions
Hybrid models are expected to be more expensive, but the benefits of these models can help recoup the cost:
- Eco-car tax reductions and environmental performance tax reductions
- Reduce fuel costs by approximately 30,000 to 50,000 yen per year
- Improved resale value
The key to the new Roomy hybrid model is the aftermath of Daihatsu’s test fraud scandal
Toyota has not yet made any official announcement regarding the Roomy hybrid model. However, there has been some new activity in relation to Daihatsu’s certification fraud scandal.
Toyota Motor Corporation and Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd. announced on April 8, 2024, that they will review the structure of their overseas businesses, effective May 1, 2024, as Daihatsu aims to be reborn as a “mobility company centered on light vehicles.”
The product planning function was transferred from the “Emerging Market Compact Car Company” that straddled Toyota and Daihatsu to Toyota’s “Toyota Compact Car Company.” By outsourcing the work from the Toyota Compact Car Company to Daihatsu, Toyota has taken responsibility for everything from development to certification.
Future direction
- Daihatsu will hone its strength in producing “high-quality, affordable” cars, providing freedom of mobility to customers across the country.
- We will expand the appeal and possibilities of kei cars, which can be considered the people’s car, and take on the challenge of developing BEV kei cars.
- We offer compact cars essential for the daily lives of customers in emerging countries at affordable prices.
- We will deepen our collaboration with Toyota to achieve carbon neutrality in the fields of electrification and intelligent vehicles, and contribute to the development of the automotive industry and economy.
If a full model change is made, cooperation with Toyota will be deepened and development of an electrified hybrid model will also progress in order to achieve carbon neutrality.
Comparison with competing models
Fuel economy and price competition with Suzuki Solio intensifies
We will introduce a competitive analysis of the compact tall wagon market.
| Car model | Fuel economy (WLTC) | Price range | Room size | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Roomy | 27.0km/L | 2.05-2.35 million yen | ◎ | Latest HV and full safety equipment |
| Suzuki Solio | 22.3km/L | 1.8 million to 2.2 million yen | ◎ | A proven track record and good value for money |
| Honda Freed | 20.8km/L | 2.3 million to 3 million yen | ○ | For 3-row seat minivans |
The new Roomy is expected to achieve top-class fuel efficiency and also have an advantage in terms of the comprehensiveness of its safety features.
Release Date
It was initially said that a full model change would occur between the end of 2023 and around 2024, but the actual release date is expected to be delayed due to Daihatsu’s inspection fraud scandal, recalls, and parts shortages. The full model change of the minicar Move, which was scheduled for release on July 3, 2023 , has also been delayed by more than a year and is now aimed for release around April 2025. The Nikkan Jidosha Shimbun has reported that the Roomy’s new car development project has been significantly revised, with the release date now set to be after June 2027. Taking these reasons into consideration, the new Roomy is expected to be released after June 2027.
History of Roomy
The Roomy and Tank, released on November 9, 2016, are tall wagon-type compact cars sold by Toyota. These models are based on the Daihatsu Thor and are supplied as OEMs. The Tank, a sister model with a different design, was announced at Toyopet and Netz dealerships at the same time as the Roomy. Subaru is also selling the Justy, marking the brand’s revival after 22 years. Toyota sells the Justy at four Toyota dealerships, plus six Subaru and Daihatsu dealerships. Suzuki’s new Solio is a competing model. These vehicles share the “1LD-CAR” concept, which emphasizes both “living space” and “driving comfort.”
| release date | Content |
|---|---|
| November 9, 2016 | The new Roomy will be released, and a sister car with a different design, the Tank, will be released at Toyopet and Netz stores . Arakawa Ryoto and Kato Ai will be used as commercial characters. |
| December 20, 2017 | A “Welcab passenger lift-up seat” is available. |
| March 1, 2018 | The collision avoidance support system “Smart Assist II” is standard equipment. |
| November 1, 2018 | Partially improved . At the same time, a special edition vehicle “G” Cozy Edition “” was released. “Smart Assist II” was changed to “Smart Assist III”. |
| September 15, 2020 | Minor change. “Tank” was abolished. The front face design was changed. “Electric parking brake & hold” was adopted for the first time. The catchphrase was “Useful! Spacious room to move around in!” The commercial character was Raisen Inagaki, and the narrator was Kazuyuki Sakuma. |
| December 20, 2023 | Shipments were halted due to a fraud scandal at OEM Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd. |
| April 19, 2024 | Production resumes |
How many Roomy units have been sold?
Sales volume in 2024
The suspension of production had an impact in 2024, and sales finally began to recover in June 2024.
| year and month | Sales volume |
|---|---|
| January 2024 | 3,245 units |
| February 2024 | 1,027 units |
| March 2024 | 649 units |
| April 2024 | 1,331 units |
| May 2024 | 4,887 units |
| June 2024 | 8,117 units |
| July 2024 | 10,003 units |
| August 2024 | 8,058 units |
| September 2024 | 10,495 units |
| October 2024 | 12,868 units |
| November 2024 | 4,530 units |
| December 2024 | 2,488 units |
| total | 67,698 units |
Toyota Roomy registration numbers Source: Japan Automobile Dealers Association
Toyota’s monthly sales target for the Roomy was 8,700 units, which was announced during the minor change in September 2020 , but sales have been significantly lower than this target in recent months.
Roomy What is the delivery time?
Sales volume
This is information from Chiba Toyopet, who I always rely on. It looks like it will take about two months for delivery.
- All grades April 2025 and later
KINTO
- All grades: 1.5 to 3 months
Q&A regarding the new Roomy full model change
When is the full model change of Roomy scheduled?
-
Initially, a full model change was expected around autumn 2024, but due to the impact of Daihatsu’s fraud scandal, this is expected to be delayed until after June 2027. The exact date has not yet been announced, but it is expected to be released within 2027.
What changes are expected in the next-generation Roomy?
-
The next-generation Roomy is expected to undergo a wide range of evolutions, including interior and exterior design, powertrain, and safety performance.
Will the Roomy’s fuel efficiency improve after the full model change?
-
The addition of the hybrid model is expected to significantly improve fuel efficiency.
What direction will the exterior design of the next-generation Roomy take?
-
Details are still unknown, but it is expected to have a more stylish and sophisticated design,
following the design trends of recent Toyota cars, and may incorporate sharp lines and three-dimensional shapes.
What is the expected price range for the Roomy after the full model change?
-
The current model’s price range is around 1.55 million to 2.1 million yen, but the next model may see a slight increase in price due to the addition of a hybrid model and improved safety features.
Will the next-generation Roomy be released as a hybrid vehicle?
-
There has been no official announcement at this time, but it is highly likely that a hybrid model will be added, and
it is highly likely that it will be equipped with Daihatsu’s e-SMART HYBRID system.
Will the rear sliding door of the next-generation Roomy be improved?
-
Although details are unknown, improvements in usability and quietness are expected.
Further improvements in convenience are expected, such as the adoption of electric sliding doors and larger openings.
What changes can we expect to see in the interior of the Roomy with its full model change?
-
The interior design is expected to be more refined and sophisticated, and
improvements in practicality are also expected, such as increased storage space and a wider variety of seat arrangements.
Will the fully redesigned Roomy offer a more comfortable ride?
-
The new platform and improved suspension are expected to improve ride comfort
and quietness, making for a more enjoyable drive.
A word from the editorial department
The current Roomy model is a well-made product packed with many selling points. This full model change is expected to introduce the DNGA platform, adopt the e-SMART HYBRID, and include advanced equipment. This will give the new Roomy excellent fuel economy and safety performance, making it an even more attractive vehicle for many users. Current-generation owners considering a purchase should pay close attention to future dates. The actual release date may be delayed due to issues such as Daihatsu’s inspection fraud, so it’s important to keep an eye on the latest information. We can’t wait for the car to be released after June 2027. We’ll keep you updated as new information becomes available.
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