Perodua Axia - Things we like

Small, affordable hatchbacks will never go out of style, anytime soon. And Perodua is acutely aware of this fact, which is why they introduced the compact Axia back in 2014. Obviously, the Axia is the Malaysian carmaker’s entry-level offering, and unsurprisingly, is also one of their better-selling models in the country. The Perodua Axia range starts from just under RM 23,000 for the base variant, though that price can soon rise to just north of RM 40,000 for the top variant.

The super-popular carmaker gave the Axia a facelift in early 2017, which only helped boost its sales further. The new Axia is actually based on the same platform as the Bezza sedan, and its primary competitor in Malaysia comes from the Kia Picanto. Also, despite its rather budget price tag, Perodua still offers the Axia with some modern amenities -- most of which are, obviously, found on the higher variants of the hatchback.

Having stated all that, let’s now look at the 5 things we like about the Perodua Axia.

Price

When it comes to buying an affordable hatchback, it’s important for manufacturers to focus on the car’s price. This is one aspect which the carmaker has absolutely nailed. Of course, to get the price down to an affordable level, Perodua has had to skimp on a few things here and there. However, one could say that, in the grand scheme of things, that’s quite irrelevant. The absolute base variant of the Perodua Axia is the Standard E trim with the manual transmission, and it starts at RM 22,990. Meanwhile, the most expensive Advance variant with the automatic gearbox costs RM 40,390. However, if all you want is the convenience of an automatic gearbox and some basic features, the RM 34,390 Standard G trim should suffice.

Efficiency

One of the most vital factors that buyers in this segment consider before they sign on the dotted line is the car’s fuel efficiency. Yet again, Perodua knocks it out of the park with this one as well. The Axia comes equipped with an understandably puny but really frugal 1.0-litre naturally-aspirated three-cylinder petrol engine. It puts out a modest 67hp and 91Nm of torque, routing it to the front wheels via either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. The 1KR-VE motor is fitted with electronic fuel injection and variable valve timing, which, when paired with the stick shift, can result in stunning fuel efficiency of 22.5 kmpl. On the other hand, the Axia automatic still impresses with its 21.6 kmpl - which isn’t exactly something to frown upon.

Features

If it’s features that you’re concerned about, most variants of the Perodua Axia cover some of the most basic ones that one might expect to find. For example, the Standard G trim comes with projector headlamps, 14-inch alloy wheels, remote-key entry, rear wiper and defogger, central locking, power windows, electrically-retractable wing mirrors, reverse parking sensors, driver’s seat-height adjustment, manual air-conditioning, front & rear cup holders, multi-information display, and a built-in 4-speaker audio system with radio and USB compatibility.

As for safety tech, the Axia Standard G variant gets dual front airbags, Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD), ISOFIX anchor points, and a 4-star ASENA NCAP safety rating. However, none of the variants sports electronic stability control (ESC). As for the range-topping Advance variant, there’s a new design for the alloy rims, front fog lamps, wing mirrors with integrated LED turn signals, side skirts, rear spoiler, window tint, front & rear parking sensors, smart keyless-entry with push-button start, semi-bucket leather seats, leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, and a touchscreen head unit with ‘Smart Link’ Android device connectivity and Bluetooth.

User-friendly

One of the most sought-after virtues in a small, budget hatchback is its overall user experience - and Perodua doesn’t disappoint on this front, either. All the buttons, switches, knobs and switchgear are easy to reach and operate. From the driver’s perspective, the gauges are easy to read, the steering is light and easy to operate in congested urban areas (same goes for the clutch and gearbox for the manual variant), while the view out isn’t too restrictive, either. On top of all this, the small exterior dimension of the Perodua Axia makes parking and manoeuvring tasks a complete non-worry.

Value for money

Depending on the variant you go for, the new Perodua Axia can be one of the better value-for-money deals on the new car market in Malaysia. Yes, its interior and even exterior design don’t really stand out on our crowded streets. However, despite its decidedly-budget price tag, the Perodua Axia is far from being a shoddily built, cheap-looking hatchback. If all you’re after is an affordable, cheap-to-run, easy to drive, and decently practical family urban hatchback, there isn’t anything too wrong with this one.