Perodua has teased its next model shortly after launching its first electric vehicle, dropping a brief video on the brand’s social channels. While details are scarce for the moment, the guess is that this is the long-awaited B-segment crossover codenamed D66B.
The D66B is expected to share many characteristics with the DNGA-based Toyota Yaris Cross, which earned a five-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating earlier this year. The Malaysia-assembled Yaris Cross is slated to appear here in both Toyota and Perodua badges, with the Perodua version rumored to carry the Nexis or Traz nameplates based on trademark filings from more than three years ago.
As seen with the Alza and Veloz, the D66B Nexis/Traz will exhibit subtle design differences from its Toyota sibling. In the teaser, Perodua only provides a clear view of the front grille, which features an insert with angular, L-shaped motifs distinct from the U-shaped patterns on the Yaris Cross.
The teaser also offers a dark, wide-shot glimpse of the D66B. After a few edits, the silhouette hints at cues familiar from the Yaris Cross, such as slender headlights and chrome trim sweeping toward the C-pillar. Some observers have sketched renders, suggesting what the final product might look like.
Powertrain options for the Nexis/Traz are not confirmed yet. In Indonesia, where the Yaris Cross is sold, the model is offered with a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine (106 PS, 138 Nm) paired with a five-speed manual or CVT, driving the front wheels. In Thailand, the Yaris Cross is available only as a hybrid, combining a 1.5-liter NA engine (91 PS, 121 Nm) with an 80 PS/141 Nm electric motor for a combined output of 111 PS.
The D66B’s introduction had originally been planned for April 2024, according to a February 2024 Kenanga Research report. A shift to prioritize the Q-VE project likely delayed the launch, but the model is now expected to arrive soon.
Regardless of its name, the D66B will sit above the Ativa in Perodua’s lineup. The Ativa starts around RM62,500 (OTR, excluding insurance) and tops out near RM73,100 (RM73,400 with the two-tone AV option). How much do you think the D66B will cost when it reaches showrooms?
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— Gerard Lye
Notes: This summary preserves the core information about the D66B’s teased reveal, its likely resemblance to the Toyota Yaris Cross, potential branding names Nexis or Traz, possible powertrain configurations mirrored from regional markets, and the expected placement in Perodua’s lineup above the Ativa, along with pricing context.
