Daihatsu launches upgraded Feroza

By Matthew Allen

DAIHATSU has launched an upgraded version of its Feroza, now called the G2.

It comes in three guises -- Standard, Deluxe and Sporty -- and on-road prices are Rp 25 million, Rp 27.5 million and Rp 28.5 million respectively.

The Feroza is a modern interpretation of a design that originated in the 1970s.

The Feroza is an offspring of the Daihatsu Rocky but with a shorter wheelbase and trendier image.

Under the chunky body, the Feroza has an efficient 16-valve, single-camshaft, 1.6-liter engine that produces a respectable 86kW, with 127Nm torque.

Suspension is independent at the front, with double wishbones and torsion bars, while at the rear, there is a simple live axle with leaf springs.

Taller drivers will find the legroom a little tight, although it does not take long to settle into reasonable comfort.

The back seats sit higher than the front and are more inclined toward passengers focussed on things other than pampered luxury.

The multivalve engine provides a decent surge of acceleration when needed and revs relatively quietly.

The Feroza is easy to drive in traffic, with handling qualities closer to a small passenger car than a bulky commercial vehicle.

The ride quality is comfortable, although there is no doubt the Feroza's wheelbase is shorter than the Rocky on which it is based.

Cheeky style and a certain ruggedness give the Feroza G2 new appeal.

The short wheelbase helps ground clearance, while the vehicle's small size makes it easier to squeeze through Jakarta's narrower streets.