Perodua Traz VS Ativa, which one is more worth buying?

【PCauto】For daily commuting, a flexible and easy-to-park car is ideal. In this regard, Perodua's Traz and Ativa both present practical options.

Traz, as a newly launched mid-size SUV, offers more spacious interior and mainstream power compared to small SUVs, but its price is slightly higher than that of the Ativa. Ativa, on the other hand, is Perodua's long-time best-selling small SUV with more affordable pricing and a balanced performance in power and technology features.

The price difference and nuanced positioning of these two models naturally invite comparison: the Traz serves as an upgraded choice for families, while the Ativa is a cost-effective and popular urban SUV.

Traz's Larger Displacement Doesn't Translate to a Significant Advantage Over Ativa

The higher expectations placed on Traz are largely due to its power configuration. It is powered by a 1.5L four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine that delivers 78kW of maximum power and 138N·m of peak torque, paired with a D-CVT transmission. This combination achieves a fuel efficiency of 21.3km/L.

The Ativa, conversely, is equipped with a 1.0L three-cylinder turbocharged engine that generates approximately 98 horsepower and 140N·m of peak torque, the latter available at relatively low RPMs. This powertrain is also paired with a D-CVT transmission and offers fuel efficiency of 18.9km/L.

When the acceleration performance of the two cars is directly compared, the difference becomes more apparent.

The 0-100 km/h acceleration time of the Yaris Cross 1.5L HEV (82kW), which is built on the same platform as the Traz, is approximately 11 seconds; Traz's time is expected to be slightly longer.

In comparison, Ativa’s performance is around 10 seconds. This indicates that despite its larger displacement and higher cylinder count, the Traz exhibits slower acceleration.

The Traz's advantage becomes more evident primarily during high-speed cruising. Its four-cylinder engine performs better in terms of controlling RPM and vibrations, making it quieter and smoother for extended constant-speed driving, thereby reducing driver fatigue.

What are the differences between Traz and Ativa?

For family users and city commuters, car selection is often not just about a single metric, but rather about balancing various needs in everyday use.

Traz Provides Superior Space and Practicality

In terms of space and comfort, Traz clearly holds an advantage. Its rear legroom is about 950 mm, and luggage compartment capacity stands at 471 liters. Additionally, the adjustable rear seat reclining angle and 60:40 split-folding design ensure comfort during long-distance trips or when traveling with multiple passengers.

In comparison, Ativa's rear legroom is about 870 mm, and its luggage compartment capacity ranges from 303 to 369 liters. It is better suited for short commutes and daily urban use, making it more flexible in compact city environments, though its space might feel slightly cramped for long-distance travel.

Ativa Features an L2 Driving Assistance System; Traz Lacks This

The Traz High Configuration version is equipped with a 9-inch central control screen, rear air vents, and an electric tailgate, all contributing to enhanced everyday comfort. It is worth noting, however, that this model does not include Level 2 driving assistance features such as adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assistance.

The Ativa High AV version, in contrast, comes equipped with Level 2 driving assistance functions, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and blind-spot monitoring. It also features LED headlights, sequential turn signals, and power-folding side mirrors.

While the Traz excels in space and comfort, it falls behind the Ativa in terms of active driving technology.

Both Models Deliver Commendable Safety Performance

Both models have earned a 5-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating, though their approach to safety differs. Traz provides six airbags, ABS+EBD, electronic stability control, front and rear parking sensors, and a 360° panoramic camera (H version).

Ativa, on the other hand, incorporates active safety features through its ASA 3.0 suite, which includes pre-collision braking, lane departure assistance, and blind-spot monitoring. The high-end AV version also comes equipped with adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance, providing drivers with greater confidence in both urban and highway driving scenarios.

Prices and Purchase Recommendations for Traz and Ativa

Perodua Traz

Traz X: Starting from approximately RM76,100

Traz H: Approximately RM81,100

Traz H (2-Tone Body Color): Approximately RM82,000 (Additional cost for the highest color option)

Perodua Ativa

Ativa 1.0L TURBO X (Base Model): Approximately RM62,500

Ativa 1.0L TURBO H (Mid-Range Model): Approximately RM67,300–RM67,800

Ativa 1.0L TURBO AV (High-End Model): Approximately RM72,600–RM73,400 (Including 2-Tone color options)

There is a noticeable price overlap between the Traz and the Ativa. The entry-level Traz is close to or even exceeds the high-end version of Ativa. This pricing inevitably leads many to compare Traz and Ativa when purchasing a car.

If your budget is more constrained and your daily driving consists primarily of city commuting, work trips, highway driving, and short-distance journeys, then the Ativa is evidently the more cost-effective choice. Its starting price is over RM10,000 lower than Traz, which is a substantial advantage for many budget-conscious families.

Additionally, Ativa's 1.0L turbocharged engine matches the urban driving rhythm well, with early torque engagement and quick acceleration response, making it feel lighter in stop-and-go city traffic. Moreover, the high-end AV version is equipped with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) as part of its Level 2 Advanced Driving Assistance System, enhancing daily driving convenience and safety. This further solidifies the Ativa's advantage over the Traz in terms of daily driving technology.

If you frequently embark on long trips, often travel with family, require ample luggage space, or prioritize rear-seat comfort, then the Perodua Traz is the preferable choice.