Perodua Ativa: Why Malaysia's Top Compact SUV?

【PCauto】In the automotive market, Perodua, which occupies nearly half of the market sales, released the Ativa in 2021. With balanced product strength and affordable price, Ativa has become a popular choice for many consumers. Even today, the sales of Ativa are over 2,700 units per month. If not for the competition from the similarly priced but larger-bodied and higher-displacement Perodua Alza, the Ativa might have achieved even higher sales figures.

Is Perodua Ativa Still Worth Buying in 2025?

This B-segment SUV offers six variants across three trim levels (X, H, AV), with prices ranging from RM62,500 to RM73,400.

The Ativa lineup exclusively features a 1.0-liter three-cylinder turbocharged engine (998cc) delivering 98PS maximum power and 140Nm peak torque, paired with a CVT transmission.

In real-world driving, the sound of the 1.0-liter three-cylinder turbo engine feels somewhat thin, but its performance while driving is surprising. The D-CVT tuning shows excellent adaptability: when lightly pressing the accelerator, the power response is gentle, making it suitable for congested road conditions; when the pedal is pushed deeper, the turbo engages instantly. Although D-CVT tuning lacks a strong push-back feel, accelerating and overtaking below 80 km/h is adequately smooth.

High-speed cruising shows commendable stability, with precise steering and better-than-expected body roll control. However, when faced with common rough road surfaces, the suspension system reveals its limitations. At low speeds, passing over speed bumps results in noticeable rear-axle bouncing, and rear passengers often complain about the strong jarring sensation. Continuous uneven road conditions can further cause cabin vibrations.

Despite its 200mm ground clearance (theoretically enhancing off-road capability), the stiff suspension tuning actually impairs rough-road comfort, performing worse than Myvi in certain scenarios.

Safety: Ativa's Key Strength

Ativa comes standard with six airbags across all variants, ABS/EBD, electronic stability control (ESC), and an ADAS system that includes pre-collision braking and lane keeping alert. The ASA 3.0 system performs impressively at night—its adaptive high-beam system can accurately identify vehicles ahead, and switch illumination ranges instantly, while the adaptive cruise control can effectively reduce driver fatigue on highways. The blind spot monitoring system also issues alerts with well-timed precision. However, the lane keeping assist frequently disengages on roads with unclear lane markings.

Practical Space & Thoughtful Design

Measuring 4,065mm in length with a 2,525mm wheelbase, the five-seater Ativa delivers satisfactory cabin space through reasonable layout. The trunk offers 303 liters of standard capacity (expandable to 369 liters in the Turbo H Special Metallic variant), with all models featuring split-folding rear seats: 60:40 configuration for the Turbo X, while other variants upgrade to 40:60 split with adjustable backrest angles. Combined with multiple storage compartments inside the car, Ativa meets the cargo needs of family users. In addition, the 200mm ground clearance further enhances road-going capability.

Differences across Various Variants

The entire lineup features LED headlights with automatic on/off function, though front fog lights are only available in mid and high trim levels.

The entry-level variant is equipped with a 9-inch touchscreen and 4-speaker system, while higher trims upgrade to 6 speakers.

Keyless entry and power-folding side mirrors are standard across all models, with front/rear parking sensors exclusively offered to the AV trim.

Turbo X rides on 16-inch wheels (205/65 R16), with other variants upgrading to 17-inch alloys (205/60 R17).

Starting from RM62,500, Turbo X focuses on practicality, whereas the top-spec two-tone version is priced at RM73,400 emphasizes technology and individuality.

Compared with its competitors in the same class, Ativa may not have advantages in power performance or interior refinement, but its standout fuel efficiency, high-standard safety features across all trims, and versatile space make it ideally suited for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize reliability—particularly for young families purchasing their first SUV and urban commuters.