How does the new Perodua compact SUV fare against the experienced BR-V?

The new Perodua Aruz is now the latest offering in the compact-SUV segment with its introductory price ranging between RM 72,900 to RM 77,900 (ex-showroom). This price tag brings it into contention with similar cars like the Toyota Rush, Nissan Grand Livina, and even the Honda BR-V. But at similar prices, does the Aruz offer more value than the BR-V?
In order to do so, we’ll have to compare the two on different elements like dimensions, engine, specs, price, more.

Dimensions

Measurement	Perodua Aruz	Honda BR-V	Difference
Length	4,435 mm	4,453 mm	18 mm (BR-V is longer)
Width	1,695 mm	1,735 mm	40 mm (BR-V is wider)
Height	1,740 mm	1,666 mm	74 mm (Aruz is taller)
Wheelbase	2,685 mm	2,662 mm	23 mm (Aruz is longer)
Boot Space	213/514 litres	223/539 litres	10/25 litres (BR-V boot is bigger)

The BR-V is a bigger SUV than the Aruz in terms of length, width, and boot capacity. However, the Perodua offers a bit more height and wheelbase than the Honda.

Engine

	Perodua Aruz	Honda BR-V
Engine	1.4-litre, 4-cylinder, DOHC with DUAL VVT-i	1.4-litre, 4-cylinder, SOHC i-VTEC
Transmission Options	4-speed automatic	Continuous Variable Transmission
Power	102 PS at 6,000 rpm	120 PS at 6,600 rpm
Torque	133 Nm at 4,200 rpm	145 Nm at 4,600 rpm
Claimed Fuel Efficiency	15.6 kmpl	16 kmpl

• The Aruz and BR-V are available with a 1.4-litre petrol engine, but Honda’s engine is more powerful and torquier
• While Aruz mill comes with a DOHC setup, while that in BR-V is SOHC
• The Aruz’s 1.4-litre petrol unit is paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission system. The BR-V powerplant is coupled to a CVT unit
• The Aruz is available in two broad trims - X and XV. The BR-V too is offered in two trims - E and V
• The BR-V’s petrol powertrains have a higher claimed fuel efficiency figure than the Aruz engine

Detailed prices

Perodua Aruz	Honda BR-V
1.5 XL - RM 72,900 (Solid) 1.5XL - RM 72,900 (Metallic)	1.5L E - RM 80,989
1.5L AV - RM 77,900 (Solid) 1.5L AV - RM 77,900 (Metallic)	1.5L V - RM 87,701

 

Standard features on offer -

	Perodua Aruz	Honda BR-V
Airbags	6 (front, side, & curtain)	2
ABS with EBD & BA	Y	without BA
Vehicle Stability Control	Y	Y
Traction Control	Y	N
Emergency Stop Signa	Y	N
Hill-Start Assist	Y	Y
Reverse Camera	Y	only reverse sensor
ISOFIX	Y	N
Solar & security window film	Y	N
Smart Start/stop button	Y	Y
Speakers	6	4
USB	Y	Y
12V	Y	Y
Air-con system	Digital with rear vents	Manual
Audio	Digital	Standard
Headlamps	LED with follow-me-home function	Halogen with LED DRLs
ORVM	Electronic & retractable	with turn signals

 

What Perodua Aruz AV offers over BR-V V: Eco Idle system, Advanced safety assist (ASA) 2.0, auto-on and leveling headlamps, multimedia system with navigation, ‘Smart Link’ & HDMI with chrome ring

What BR-V V offers over Aruz AV: Chrome side protector, bumper lower garnish, electric tailgate lock, and a 6.1-inch display audio system.

Verdict: Looks like it is an easy win for the Aruz over the Honda BR-V in terms of price. Aruz top-spec variant costs less then BR-V lower model and has more to offer in terms of comfort, safety, features, and technology.

Also read: Perodua Aruz is the best-selling crossover in Malaysia