Perodua Axia – Hits & misses

Perodua Axia is a car that is truly for the masses. It has become one of the best selling cars in Malaysia mostly due to its quality and value for money attribute. Built on the platform of Toyota Agya, the car has received several uplifts over the years. It is available in multiple variants with a range of color options to suit every need. However, just like any other vehicle, it comes with some downsides too. Let us look at some of the hits and misses of 2018 Perodua Axia.

Perodua Axia Hits

Interior Design

The interior of the Axia is designed with the target users in mind. The space and flexibility inside the car are remarkable. There are a total space for five adults, thus enabling you to utilise the space to the maximum. Based on the number of passengers and the luggage, users can fold the rear seat, except the driver and front passenger seat. All seats can also be folded in a stationary position. The boot space after folding all seats is 260 litres.

Interior features

Perodua Axia specifications will leave you wondering if it is an entry-level car. The car is equipped with features such as push-button start, smart entry system with smart key, and multimedia system with ‘Smart Link.’ There is a touch screen music system with four speakers for enriching entertainment experience. The leather upholstery gives a premium feeling inside the Axia. You also get reverse parking sensors, front cornering sensors, and steering mounted audio controls besides the usual features. The features on the inside are a definite hit.

Safety

Safety is usually not the concern in the entry-level vehicles, which is not the case with the 2018 Perodua Axia. The car has received ASEAN NCAP 4 star rating indicating that it is safe for family trips. 2018 Perodua Axia comes with an Anti-Lock Braking System with Electronic Brake Distribution. Features such as Dual SRS Airbags, ISOFIX system, and 3-point rear seatbelt are provided with the 2018 Axia. The car also comes with collision resistant body to minimise the damage in the event of any incident. Such safety features and a 4-star ASEAN NCAP rating make safety feature a hit.

Fuel Economy

Given that the 2018 Perodua Axia is an entry-level car, fuel economy becomes an essential aspect of the entire scheme of things. The engine which was updated in the last facelift received VVT-i technology from Toyota vastly improving its fuel efficiency. The Axia can deliver fuel economy of 22.5 kmpl with manual transmission and 21.6 kmpl with automatic transmission. These are stellar numbers making the 2018 Perodua Axia one of the most fuel-efficient cars in Malaysia.

Perodua Axia Misses

Exterior Design

The exterior design of Axia is unappealing and straightforward which could have been certainly improved. Although the last facelift did get some changes in design, it still remains uninspiring. On the front, there is a hexagonal grille with chrome slats. The headlamps are present adjacent to the grille. The side profile of the 2018 Perodua Axia is also dull and boring with no sharp character lines. The alloy wheels and chrome door handle are the only aspects which add at least some premium look. The story on the rear is no different which gets plain hatchback design. Overall, it is clear that the company has put performance overlooks.

Engine power

The 2018 Perodua Axia is powered by a 1.0-litre gasoline engine which is capable of delivering 67 hp at 6000 rpm and 91 Nm of torque at 4400 rpm. This is one of the smallest engines in the line-up, so do not expect it to deliver a lot of power. The car is capable of providing maximum power at a higher rpm range. The car is not an ideal highway cruiser but should be fine navigating within the city. It can go up to 110 kmph without any problem. However, the engine power at par with the competition could be a perfect addition to this otherwise valuable car.