Perodua Myvi - Things that could have been better

Perodua Myvi has been a preferred premium hatch for the locals ever since it made its way to the auto market. Possible reasons for the same are its worthwhile pricing, reliability and appreciable interiors. Since its inception, the automaker has produced more than 1 million units of Myvi.

Now 2020 Perodua Myvi is here in its third-generation with two petrol engine options, 1.5- and 1.3-litre four-cylinder, DOHC naturally-aspirated Dual VVT-i coupled with 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission. The bigger displacement variant is good for 107 PS and 140 Nm, while the smaller version is capable of churning out 95 PS of power and 121 Nm of torque. 

With the new-gen model hitting the showrooms lately, we are here to point some of the aspects where the model could have done better. 

Styling

The automaker hasn’t really turned the tide with the styling of the new Myvi. It is still the mundane-looking hatch with very few sporty touches. We expected the automaker to make it a little more stylish by including new elements or maybe revamping the existing ones. But on the design front, there is nothing fascinating and it seems Perodua is happy serving the locals with the same dish as long as they are able to accumulate sales. Because according to the latest Perodua sales report, the company sold 240,341 units last year, with nearly 40% market share.

No LED daytime running lights

Perodua hasn’t considered to include LED DRLs in its latest iteration. While rivals like Kia Picanto and Honda Jazz come with daytime running lights with LED. The automaker could have included them for enhanced visibility even in the day. It could also be a step forward towards styling transformation. However, the company had different plans. 

No auto headlamps

Another important feature that other prominent players in the market have, the 2020 Myvi does not sport is the auto headlamps. Cars like Proton Iriz and Kia Picanto come with auto headlamps, which upon detecting bad weather or dark conditions turn the lights on. A useful feature for city commuters that the company could’ve included. 

Discs at both, front and rear end missing

Considering discs at both ends could have been a better choice, though Perodua Myvi specs sheet comprises plenty of safety aid, including side and front airbags, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRC), Emergency Stop Signal (ESS), ABS with EBD, reverse sensors, Hill Start Assist (HAS) and Advanced safety Assist (ASA) with features like pre-collision warning, pre-collision braking, pedal misoperation, and front departure alert.

Driveability 

Though the Myvi is powered by decently powerful engines, it fails to engage the driver. The suspension and steering are on the softer side. This is something we expected the company to enhance because undoubtedly such kind of setups provide swift response while manoeuvring around the city’s crowded spaces, they do not lend enough confidence to the driver while on the expressways. 

Final thoughts

That is it for the next-gen Myvi, with some of the points that Perodua could have improved. However, its real strength is the fuel-efficient powertrain that delivers exceptional output, 20.1 Kmpl on the 1.5-litre variant and 21.1 Kmpl on the smaller 1.3-litre variant (claimed values). 

Available in five variants, the Myvi ticks essential boxes for a first-time car buyer. In fact, it goes beyond the buyer’s expectations with the presence of ASA on the higher-grade models. 

Pricing (variant-wise)

Here is a look at the Perodua Myvi price list:

• Perodua Myvi 1.3 G MT: RM 42,790
• Perodua Myvi 1.3 G AT: RM 44,590
• Perodua Myvi 1.3 X AT: RM 46,590
• Perodua Myvi 1.5 H AT: RM 50,290
• Perodua Myvi 1.5 AV AT: RM 54,090

Also read: Perodua Myvi - Safety & accessories explained