Perodua Ativa: A smart choice in the segment

Perodua dominates the Malaysian automotive industry with a substantial market share of 48%. Half of the country’s top 10 best-selling cars in 2024 are from Perodua, with Bezza, Axia, and Myvi occupying the top three spots. Among the remaining two is the Ativa, a relatively new Perodua model launched in 2021 with several Perodua-first features.

The Perodua Ativa is a compact SUV available in three variants - X, H, and AV, priced between RM 62,500 and RM 73,400. Competing in the B-segment SUV category, it takes on rivals like the Proton X50 and Honda WR-V. The Ativa outsold the X50 last year, with 36,039 units sold compared to the 22,674 for the X50.

So, what makes the Perodua Ativa a smart choice for urban drivers and first-time SUV buyers in Malaysia? Let’s review.

Fuel-efficient and reliable performance

The Ativa comes powered by a 1.0-litre, three-cylinder, turbocharged engine that generates a maximum output of 98 PS at 6,000 rpm and a peak torque of 140 Nm from 2,400 to 4,000 rpm. It comes mated to the world’s first split-gear CVT system, called D-CVT, which integrates a belt drive with a gear drive for better acceleration, fuel efficiency, and quietness.

While the Perodua SUV is not the most powerful option in the segment, it offers smooth, reliable, and fuel-efficient performance. Speaking of the latter, the Ativa has a fuel economy of 18.9 kmpl, which is the best among other compact SUVs available in the market. Thus, it can be an excellent choice for daily commuting.

Advanced safety features

One of the key highlights of the Perodua Ativa is its safety aspect. All the variants of the SUV are fitted with the Advanced Safety Assist ADAS pack, which we often see in higher-priced models. The pack includes Pre-Collision Braking, Pre-Collision Warning, Pedal Misoperation Control, Front Departure Alert, and Lane Departure Warning. 

Further giving it a competitive edge are Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capabilities (available for top-spec AV trim) such as Adaptive cruise control, Lane centring assist, Blind spot monitoring, and Rear cross traffic alert. 

Priced at just RM 71,200, the Ativa stands out as one of the most budget-friendly SUVs to offer this cutting-edge tech.

Spacious and versatile

The Ativa has a spacious cabin offering a comfortable ride to all occupants. Not only front passengers, but rear ones can also get ample legroom to stretch out on long drives.

The SUV also features a flexible boot area with two levels of storage - 303 litres in Tier 1 and 369 litres in Tier 2. The rear seats can be split-folded in a 60:40 ratio and full-flat mode - 

• 60:40 split-fold: Perfect for carrying long or oversized items.
• Full-Flat mode: Suitable for larger items like furniture or sports equipment.

Smart storage solutions

Adding to the practicality and utility are different storage solutions positioned throughout the cabin. These include - 

• Console box with padded armrest
• Illuminated open tray
• Side pockets
• Built-in cup holders
• Vanity mirror with card slot

Modern and compact design

The SUV looks bold and sporty with a striking front grille, LED headlamps, and a high-riding stance, offering a proper SUV feel. However, those who want to add more spice to its styling can choose from a vast range of official GearUp accessories available for all variants.

The vehicle has a high ground clearance of 200 mm, which provides an added advantage over traditional sedans and hatchbacks, as it can smoothly ride over speed bumps, flash floods, and uneven terrain. This compact SUV is also easy to manoeuvre in city traffic, thanks to its 5.1m turning radius.

Perodua Ativa: Variant-wise key specifications  

Here’s a quick rundown of the Perodua Ativa variant-wise specifications, helping prospective buyers pick the best-suited variant for them.

Variants	Ativa X	Ativa H	Ativa AV
Price	RM 62,500	RM 67,300	RM 72,600
Engine	1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged engine	1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged engine	1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged engine
Output	98 PS at 6,000 rpm 140 Nm from 2,400 to 4,000 rpm	98 PS at 6,000 rpm 140 Nm from 2,400 to 4,000 rpm	98 PS at 6,000 rpm 140 Nm from 2,400 to 4,000 rpm
Gearbox	D-CVT	D-CVT	D-CVT
Exterior	LED reflector headlights with automatic high beam LED taillights 16-inch silver alloy wheels	Automatic LED headlights with sequential indicators and cornering lights Adaptive Driving Beam LED front fog lights LED taillights 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels Chrome accents	Automatic LED headlights with sequential indicators and cornering lights Adaptive Driving Beam LED front fog lights LED taillights 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels Chrome accents Black roof
Interior	4.2-inch multi-information display  Radio with Bluetooth connectivity Four speakers Two front USB ports Fabric upholstery Urethane steering wheel	7-inch digital instrument display 9-inch infotainment touchscreen with Smart Link screen mirroring Front and rear USB ports Leather-wrapped steering wheel Four speakers Fabric upholstery	7-inch digital instrument display 9-inch infotainment touchscreen with Smart Link screen mirroring Front and rear USB ports Leather-wrapped steering wheel Six speakers Red accents Faux leather and suede upholstery Driving video recorder
Safety	Six airbags Advanced Safety Assist ADAS pack Rear parking sensors	Six airbags Advanced Safety Assist ADAS pack Front & rear parking sensors Reverse camera	Six airbags Advanced Safety Assist ADAS pack Front & rear parking sensors Reverse camera Adaptive cruise control Lane centring assist Blind spot monitoring Rear cross traffic alert
Body colours	3 metallic colours   Cobalt Blue Granite Grey Glittering Silver	3 metallic colours   Cobalt Blue Granite Grey Glittering Silver 2 Special metallic colours (+RM 500)   Pearl Delima Red Pearl Diamond White	2 metallic colours Cobalt Blue Granite Grey 2 Special metallic colours (+RM 500)  Pearl Delima Red  Pearl Diamond White  2 Special metallic colours with Black roof (+800)  Pearl Delima Red Pearl Diamond White

Verdict

While the Perodua Ativa may not match the power and premium feel of higher-priced SUVs in the segment, it excels in terms of value for money, safety, and running costs. Thus, stands out as a value-packed smart option that appeals to a wide range of buyers.  

Also read: Perodua EV testing starts this June; December 2025 launch confirmed