Which car is better for resale?

When purchasing a used car in Malaysia, the Perodua Myvi stands out as the optimal choice for balancing cost-effectiveness and reliability. Equipped with either a 1.3L or 1.5L engine mated to a 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission, it delivers fuel efficiency of 4.7L/100km. With readily available spare parts and affordable maintenance costs, it is particularly suitable for buyers with budgets ranging from RM15,000 to RM30,000. For those requiring more space or family-oriented vehicles, mid-range models like the Honda City and Toyota Vios (priced between RM30,000 and RM60,000) are equally commendable options due to their fuel efficiency and durability. During the purchasing process, buyers should compare prices through physical markets such as Sungai Besi Auto or online platforms like Carlist and Carsome, while paying close attention to gear lever wear, brake pedal condition, and engine vibrations. Additionally, maintenance records from authorized 4S service centers should be requested. Prior to ownership transfer, a mandatory vehicle inspection at PUSPAKOM must be scheduled to ensure compliance. It is further advisable to engage third-party inspection services such as SCRUT for comprehensive vehicle condition verification. Insurance-wise, at least compulsory third-party liability coverage is required, while loan applicants must prepare supporting documents including three months' pay slips and bank statements.

Currently, the cheapest car model on the market is the Kia Rio, priced at approximately 60,000 Malaysian Ringgit. This South Korean compact car is known for its affordability and practicality, equipped with a 1.4L naturally aspirated engine, making it suitable for urban commuting. If considering used cars, mainstream brand models aged 3-5 years, such as the Toyota Vios or Honda City, can be purchased for 30,000 to 50,000 Malaysian Ringgit. It is worth noting that the newly launched entry-level version of the Chery Tiggo 8 in 2026 is priced at 129,800 Malaysian Ringgit. Although not the cheapest option, it stands out for its cost-effectiveness as a seven-seater SUV. Its 1.6T turbocharged engine delivers 197 horsepower and comes with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, priced approximately 30,000 Malaysian Ringgit lower than comparable joint-venture brand models. When purchasing a car, it is advisable to compare price variations between Johor and Borneo regions, where differences for certain models may reach 5%-10%. Additionally, ancillary costs such as insurance and road tax should be factored in, typically amounting to 3%-5% of the vehicle's price.

In the Malaysian automotive market, Toyota stands out as the brand with the most outstanding reliability performance. It has long been favored by consumers for its excellent durability and tropical climate adaptability, particularly dominating the pickup truck (e.g., Hilux) and MPV (e.g., Innova) segments. Local brands Perodua and Proton excel in cost-effectiveness and localized services. Among them, Perodua's budget-friendly models like the Axia and Myvi have become bestsellers due to their low failure rates and affordable prices (approximately RM30,000 to RM80,000), while Proton's models such as the X50, co-developed with Geely, have enhanced reliability through technological upgrades. Japanese brands like Honda and Mitsubishi have also built strong reputations for their proven powertrain systems and after-sales networks, with Honda's engine technology being particularly noteworthy. Notably, Chinese brands such as Chery and BYD have gradually improved market confidence through stringent quality control in recent years, though their overall reliability still requires further validation. When selecting a vehicle, it is advisable to balance budget and intended use—Toyota suits those prioritizing long-term dependability, while local brands better serve daily commuting needs focused on value for money.

When purchasing a used car in Malaysia, the Perodua Myvi stands out as the most cost-effective option, with prices typically ranging between 15,000 to 30,000 Malaysian Ringgit. Its popularity stems from durability, fuel efficiency (approximately 4.7L/100km), and comprehensive after-sales support. For buyers with a higher budget (30,000 to 60,000 Malaysian Ringgit), the Honda City or Toyota Vios are better suited for family needs, offering both fuel economy and reliability. Prior to purchase, thorough inspection of the vehicle's condition is crucial, including engine performance, brake wear, and service history, along with mandatory PUSPAKOM certification. Notably, Johor's automotive industry cluster may provide more competitive pricing, though additional insurance and tax expenses should be factored in. Budget-conscious buyers may consider decade-old Proton Saga or Perodua Axia models available for as little as a few thousand Ringgit, but should account for potential maintenance costs. Utilizing platforms like Carlist for price comparison and selecting vehicles with complete maintenance documentation are recommended risk-mitigation strategies.

Currently, the top-selling brand in the Malaysian automotive market is Perodua, which maintained its leading position in 2025 with sales exceeding 350,000 units. Its mainstay affordable compact cars are deeply favored by consumers due to their high cost-effectiveness and localization advantages, dominating the market. Closely following is another local brand, Proton, with annual sales of approximately 150,000 units. It continues to enhance product competitiveness through technical cooperation with Geely. Among Japanese brands, Toyota ranks third with nearly 130,000 units sold, demonstrating stable market performance. Notably, Chinese brands Chery and BYD have achieved significant growth: Chery's annual sales exceeded 30,000 units, a year-on-year increase of over 60%, while BYD also recorded rapid growth with 14,000 units sold, mainly driven by the market expansion of new energy vehicles. Overall, local brands hold about 65% of the market share. Among them, models like Perodua's Axia and Bezza have long been among the top-selling individual models, fully reflecting their precise grasp of local consumers' needs.