Perodua Ativa 2023 Review

In recent years, the competition in Malaysia's B-Segment SUV market has become increasingly intense. Consumers with a budget under RM 100,000 not only pursue the passability and space of SUVs but also focus on fuel economy and smart configurations. As the entry-level model of the series, the 2023 Perodua Ativa 1.0L Turbo X is priced at RM 62,500 and features six airbags, Level 2 driving assistance functions, and turbocharged power, which are rare in its class. It has become the focus of many family users. The main purpose of this test drive was to verify whether this entry-level model can meet the comprehensive needs of daily commuting and family outings beyond its cost-effectiveness.

In terms of appearance, the 2023 Ativa Turbo X retains the iconic youthful design of the series. The front features a large trapezoidal grille with horizontally blackened trim. The automatic LED headlights and daytime running lights on both sides are integrated, enhancing visual width. The body side lines are simple and smooth, with waistlines extending from the front fender to the rear, enhancing the three-dimensional sense. The 16-inch alloy wheels are of a standard design, paired with 205/65 R16 tires, balancing comfort and passability. At the rear, the blackened LED taillights echo the silver skid plate below the rear bumper. The overall design is highly recognizable in the same class and aligns with the aesthetics of young family users.

Inside the car, the interior of the Turbo X prioritizes practicality. The center console mainly uses hard plastic materials but improves visual quality through silver trim and textured detailing. The 7-inch TFT multifunction display panel has clear visuals and can switch between information such as fuel consumption and driving assistance status. The 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system supports Bluetooth connectivity, with operating fluency meeting expectations for this price range. In terms of configuration, keyless entry/start, a multifunction steering wheel, and a manually operated digital air-conditioning system with memory function are standard. The front seats support manual adjustment, and the fabric upholstery offers moderate support, ensuring comfort during long rides.

In terms of space, the Ativa Turbo X's body dimensions are 4065mm×1710mm×1635mm, with a wheelbase of 2525mm, which is within the mainstream for B-Segment SUVs. A front-row passenger with a height of 175cm has 1 fist and 2 fingers of headroom after adjusting the seat, while a rear-row passenger of the same height has 1 fist of legroom and headroom, meeting the daily travel needs of families. The trunk has a regular capacity of 303 liters, which can be expanded to a larger space by folding down the 60:40 split rear seats, accommodating a stroller or two 20-inch suitcases. The car’s interior offers plenty of storage options, with front and rear door slots for water bottles, a center armrest box, and a glove box of moderate capacity. The front row is also equipped with a 220V/230V power outlet for external device charging.

In terms of power, the Turbo X is equipped with a 1.0L three-cylinder turbocharged engine delivering a maximum power of 72 kW (98 PS) at 6000 rpm and a maximum torque of 140 N·m between 2400-4000 rpm, paired with a CVT gearbox. During daily driving, the engine begins delivering maximum torque after 2400 rpm, with light starts and responsive mid-range acceleration. When overtaking, stepping hard on the accelerator prompts the CVT to simulate shifting, providing linear power output with no significant lag. At highway speeds, the engine runs at around 2000 rpm at 100 km/h and increases to 2500 rpm when cruising at 120 km/h. Noise levels are acceptable, with wind and road noise at tolerable levels. The official combined fuel consumption is 5.3L/100km, while actual test drives showed about 6.2L/100km in urban roads and approximately 4.8L/100km on highways, meeting expectations for fuel economy performance.

In terms of handling and chassis, the combination of front MacPherson independent suspension and rear double-link independent suspension is tuned for comfort within the same class. When driving over speed bumps or uneven roads, the suspension effectively filters out most of the jolts, ensuring that rear passengers do not experience significant bumps. Body roll is kept within a reasonable range when cornering, and the steering wheel has moderate weight and precise directional control, making it suitable for daily family driving. With a minimum ground clearance of 200mm, it handles rural dirt roads or light unpaved roads without difficulty, meeting occasional suburban travel needs.

Safety features are a highlight of the Turbo X, which comes standard with six airbags, ABS anti-lock braking system, vehicle stability control, lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and active braking. During the test drive, the lane departure warning system provided timely alerts when changing lanes without signaling, while the forward collision warning system was sensitive in recognizing stationary vehicles and pedestrians, effectively reducing accident risks. The rear parking sensors and reverse camera are of decent clarity, making parking easier for beginners.

Overall, at a price of RM 62,500, the 2023 Perodua Ativa 1.0L Turbo X achieves a balance of performance, space, and safety features. Compared to competitors in the same class, its Level 2 driving assistance and six airbags are key advantages, and its fuel efficiency can meet the daily needs of family users. However, details like the use of hard plastic materials for the interior and seats that only support manual adjustment are common compromises for entry-level models.

This vehicle is suitable for family users who value cost-effectiveness and safety features, especially those primarily focused on daily commuting and occasionally traveling with family members. It has no particularly significant shortcomings, and its overall performance can meet family usage scenarios. It is a practical choice worth considering in the sub-RM 100,000 SUV market.