New Daihatsu Rocky Facelift Debuts in Indonesia with Sportier Style

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The newest iteration of the Daihatsu Rocky has been unveiled, marking a subtle yet meaningful update for the subcompact SUV that first appeared in 2019. Although the overall design and platform remain largely unchanged, Daihatsu has refreshed the model to help it stay competitive in an increasingly crowded segment. For now, these updates are exclusive to the Indonesian market, where the Rocky continues to enjoy popularity. The model is part of a broader family that includes its close relatives — the Toyota Raize, Subaru Rex, and Perodua Ativa — all of which share much of the same engineering and design but have yet to receive any facelift of their own.

Daihatsu Rocky suv

Visually, the most significant update can be seen at the front end, where the new Rocky sports a slightly tougher and more refined look. The grille maintains its familiar shape but now adopts a honeycomb mesh pattern, while the “Daihatsu” lettering replaces the traditional brand emblem, echoing design cues from the rare Rocky Limited Edition. The front bumper has also been reshaped, featuring a new lower extension that connects the side air intakes and frames the vertical daytime running lights (DRLs) positioned beneath the fog lamps. These details give the SUV a bolder and more assertive appearance. Along the sides, the changes are primarily aesthetic, with new decals enhancing the profile and providing a sportier contrast against the gloss-black mirror caps and 16-inch alloy wheels. At the rear, the design has been subtly updated with faux air intakes integrated into the bumper and a new chrome garnish stretching across the tailgate, creating a slightly more dynamic finish.

Daihatsu Rocky interior

Inside the cabin, interior changes are modest but functional. The black interior theme is complemented by red accents, adding a touch of sportiness. The infotainment system continues to feature a 9-inch touchscreen display, which works in tandem with a digital instrument cluster. Higher-end trims also gain an 8-inch subwoofer, enhancing the in-car audio experience. Daihatsu has also preserved several thoughtful storage features, such as an underseat tray, a pop-out cup holder beneath the climate control vent, and additional space beneath the center console, all of which enhance daily usability and practicality.

Mechanically, the updated Rocky retains its DNGA platform and the same engine options as before. Buyers can choose between a 1.2-liter naturally aspirated engine producing 87 horsepower, a 1.0-liter turbocharged unit with 97 horsepower, or a range-extender hybrid setup. Notably, the facelift applies only to the X and R trims, while the base M variant and the imported hybrid version from Japan continue with the pre-facelift design.

Daihatsu Rocky

In Indonesia, pricing starts at approximately $12,800 for the M trim equipped with the 1.2-liter engine and manual transmission. The range-topping R trim featuring the 1.0-liter turbo engine and CVT begins at around $17,600, while the hybrid model starts at $18,100. At present, Daihatsu has not confirmed whether these design updates will extend to the Japanese domestic market, or if they will remain a market-specific refresh for Indonesian customers. Nonetheless, the 2025 update gives the Rocky a fresher and more refined appeal, ensuring it remains a strong contender in the compact SUV segment.

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