Daihatsu’s new Rocky Space is currently under development and is attracting attention as a seven-seater, three-row SUV based on the current Rocky. Originally scheduled for release in 2024, this has been significantly delayed due to Daihatsu’s certification fraud scandal, and is now expected to be released around August 2027. This article provides the latest information on the new Rocky Space and details whether those considering purchasing one should wait.
What is Daihatsu Rocky Space?
Basic Concept
The new Rocky Space is based on the popular compact SUV “Rocky,” but with an extended wheelbase and overall length, it can accommodate seven people in three rows of seats. A trademark application was filed in December 2022, and the vehicle is expected to adopt Daihatsu’s new generation platform, “DNGA.”
Trademark registration history
A trademark for “ROCKY SPACE” was applied for with the Japan Patent Office in December 2022, and at the same time, Toyota plans to launch a sister vehicle called “RAIZE SPACE.” This indicates that the two companies will continue the same OEM relationship as the current Rocky Raize.
Predicted specs for the new Rocky Space
Body size
Estimated size
- Overall length: 4,395mm (400mm longer than the current Rocky)
- Overall width: 1,730mm (35mm wider than the current Rocky)
- Overall height: 1,700mm (80mm higher than the current Rocky)
- Wheelbase: 2,625mm (+100mm compared to the current Rocky)
- Seating capacity: 7 people (3-row seats)
It will be one size larger than the current Rocky and is expected to have a total length that exceeds that of the Toyota Sienta .
Powertrain
Engine to be installed
- e-SMART HYBRID system
- 1.2L inline 3-cylinder engine + electric motor
- System output: 106ps/17.3kgm
- Drive system: FF
- Estimated fuel consumption: 24km/L (WLTC mode)
- 1L gasoline turbo engine
- Output: 98ps/14.3kgm
- Transmission: D-CVT
- Drive system: FF/4WD
The new Rocky Space is expected to be equipped with the popular series hybrid ” e-SMART HYBRID ” that is available in the current Rocky, and is expected to achieve excellent fuel efficiency despite being a seven-seater.
Interior and exterior design features
Exterior
- Inheriting the powerful design of an SUV
- Front mask that follows the current Rocky model
- LED headlights as standard
- Practical styling with a higher roof height
interior
- 3-row, 7-seater layout
- Second-row seat sliding function
- Accommodates a variety of seat arrangements
- Expanded luggage space
- Latest infotainment system
Price Forecast
The price of the new Rocky Space is expected to start from the 2 million yen range .
Price forecast by grade
- Entry grade: from approximately 2 million yen
- Mid-range model: from approximately 2.2 million yen
- High-end grade: from approximately 2.5 million yen
- Hybrid car: from approximately 2.3 million yen
Considering that the current Rocky starts at 1.67 million yen, the price will likely reflect the increased costs and enlargement of the vehicle due to the three-row seating arrangement.
Comparison with competing models
Differences from Toyota Sienta
| item | Rocky Space (forecast) | Sienta |
|---|---|---|
| full length | 4,395mm | 4,260mm |
| Overall width | 1,730mm | 1,695mm |
| Overall height | 1,700mm | 1,695mm |
| design | SUV Style | Minivan Style |
| Price range | From 2 million yen | From 2,077,900 yen |
The new Rocky Space features a more powerful design that is more like an SUV than the Sienta, and is expected to have marketability that will appeal to outdoor-oriented users.
Release date and development status
Release Schedule
- Initially scheduled for 2024
- Current plan : Around August 2027
- Reason for delay : Development review due to Daihatsu’s certification fraud issue
Background to continued development
At a Daihatsu press conference in April 2024, it was announced that under the new structure, Toyota would be responsible for everything from development to certification, while Daihatsu would be responsible for the actual development . This confirms that development of the Rocky Space will continue.
Safety equipment and advanced features
The new Rocky Space is expected to be equipped with the latest safety features.
Expected safety equipment
- Smart Assist latest version
- Collision avoidance assist brakes (for vehicles and pedestrians)
- Lane departure warning and prevention function
- ACC with full-speed tracking function
- Lane Keep Assist
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Parking Assist Function
Deciding whether to wait to buy
Reasons to wait
1. Seven-seater compact SUVs are rare on the market
- There are limited options for three-row SUV-design vehicles.
- Ideal for outdoor-loving families
2. Equipped with the latest technology
- Excellent fuel economy thanks to e-SMART HYBRID
- Latest safety equipment and connected features
3. Cost-effective
- Pricing starts from 2 million yen
- Competitively priced for a seven-seater SUV
When to not wait
1. I need a 7-seater car urgently.
- It will take about three years to be released
- Depending on the condition of your current car, this may not be practical.
2. Budget constraints
- It is expected to be about 300,000 to 500,000 yen more expensive than the current Rocky
- There are plenty of options available now in the same price range.
3. Emphasis on performance
- New car, risk of initial defects
- The current model is more reliable
Summary: Is the new Rocky Space worth the wait?
The new Daihatsu Rocky Space is expected to be a very attractive choice as a seven-seater vehicle with an SUV design . It will be worth the wait, especially for the following people:
People who recommend waiting
- Outdoor-oriented families
- A family of seven who loves SUV design
- Anyone interested in the latest hybrid technology
- People who will be satisfied with their current cars until 2027
Who should consider purchasing now?
- Urgently need a 7-seater car
- Focus on proven current models
- People who want to keep their budget low
With approximately three years until the scheduled release in August 2027, it is important to make a comprehensive judgment based on the current state of your car and any changes in your family structure . As a rare SUV-style seven-seater vehicle in Japan, the new Rocky Space is expected to be an attractive model worth waiting for.
