Compact Toyota Roomy Prepares for Its First Generation Change in 10 Years

The Toyota Roomy is approaching an important milestone in its history — the compact minivan that has retained its original design for nearly a decade is preparing for its first full generation change. During that time, competitors have made significant progress in fuel economy, safety, and equipment, while the Roomy continues to focus on its compact dimensions and practical cabin.

The next version of the model is expected to adopt the Daihatsu DNGA platform and the e-Smart hybrid system, which could address one of the current vehicle’s main shortcomings — relatively poor fuel economy.

The Toyota Roomy debuted in 2016 and is essentially a clone of the Daihatsu Thor. The model belongs to the category of compact tall wagons and combines a body measuring about 4 meters long with a spacious cabin and two sliding doors. Over the years, the Roomy has remained popular thanks to its practicality and ease of use in the city. The current Roomy is based on the Daihatsu Thor, which was introduced in 2016. Over the years, the model’s design has changed very little, while Daihatsu has gradually moved to the DNGA architecture. The platform is designed to improve driving dynamics and safety while also allowing for electrified powertrains.

The switch to DNGA is expected to be one of the most significant changes for the next-generation Roomy. At the same time, the vehicle’s key features should remain — a compact body measuring less than 4 meters long, a spacious cabin, and two sliding doors.

The Roomy is currently offered with naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines, both displacing 1.0 liter. Fuel consumption is considered one of the model’s weak points, especially compared with the Suzuki Solio, which has received a mild-hybrid system across its entire lineup.

That is why the e-Smart hybrid could be the next Roomy’s main technical innovation. The system is already used in the Daihatsu Rocky and Toyota Raize. It uses a series-hybrid setup in which the internal-combustion engine generates electricity while an electric motor drives the wheels.

This operating principle is particularly well suited to a city vehicle. Electric drive provides smooth acceleration and low noise levels, while the internal-combustion engine serves as a power source for the battery.

The Roomy is also expected to receive more modern equipment along with the new powertrain. Potential changes include expanding the number of trims available with an electric parking brake and further development of the Smart Assist safety system.

The interior could change as well. The next generation is expected to feature a more modern infotainment system with a large display and a digital instrument cluster. At the same time, increasing the vehicle’s size is not considered a primary goal for the developers — the Roomy’s practicality is still expected to go hand in hand with easy maneuverability in the city.

Toyota and Daihatsu have not yet released official information about the launch timing or specifications of the next-generation Roomy.