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Review

Is The Perodua Aruz Really One Of Malaysia's Best-selling SUVs? Here's What We Think!

Soveena

1-10-2021

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DISCLAIMER

All opinions expressed are translated directly from Caricarz’s writer, Suhana Veru’s article. All of the information stated above is based on Caricarz’s previous research in September 2021. Current prices and information may differ.

Did you know that the Perodua Aruz is one of Malaysia’s best-selling Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs)?

Based on several local reports, this machine is a dream car for many Malaysians as it offers a generous amount of space.

This machine is also said to be very suitable for bigger families with four or five children.

In addition to its size, other highlights include a sophisticated communication system and security functions and an affordable price that has caused it to become "viral" among consumers who have bigger families!

Fortunately for us, Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Sdn Bhd (PERODUA) was willing to lend us a Perodua Aruz (AV variant) so that we could experience the Aruz for ourselves!

For your information, the best-selling seven-seater SUV in Malaysia is a rebadged model from the Toyota Rush refurbished for the 2021 release.

It is offered in two variants: the X variant and AV variant, priced at RM70,846.35 and RM75,684.15, respectively.

Many of you may be wondering why the X variant is offered at a lower price than the AV variant.

The AV is equipped with many additional features: a Safe Driving Assistance (ASA) 2.0 system, roof rails, silver lining, an Aruz badge on the side steps, and a Driving Video Recorder (DVR). These features are not available on the X variant.

In addition to that, the AV semi-bucket seat is wrapped in leather material, while the X only receives a fabric seat finish.

Also exclusive to the AV variant is a new shade of Passion Red in addition to the existing colours, Granite Gray (grey), Electric Blue (blue), Glittering Silver (silver) and Ivory White (white).

Other than that, the AV also comes with an automatic door lock feature. This means that when the vehicle’s speed exceeds 20 kilometres per hour, the door will open automatically in the event of a collision.

The vehicle is also built with Smart Tag devices. This way, you don’t have to search for your Touch n Go card every time you reach the toll.

The AV variant infotainment system is equipped with a multimedia system that includes navigation, a smart link for android, while the X only accepts a digital audio system with Bluetooth.

“The back is adorned with spoilers giving it a bit of a sporty feel,” said Caricarz video host Shaun Stephen.

I agree with Shaun's statement. The spoiler brings out the sporty feel of the vehicle.

The AV stands at 4,435mm long, 1,695 mm wide and 1,705 mm high, along with a wheelbase of 2,685mm.

It comes with 213 litres of boot space but can be enlarged further by lowering the third row of seats.

Not only can you fit a couple of suitcases, but you could also even fit a bicycle!

Under the hood is a 1.5-litre DOHC VVT-i engine paired with a 4-speed gearbox that produces 101 hp and 133 Nm of torque.

The model has a fuel consumption of 6.4-litres per 100km.

However, the vehicle may not accelerate as quickly if the vehicle is at full capacity.

Shaun also acknowledged this statement."If we are to bring seven adults in this car, we may not be able to feel the power," he added.

I support Shaun's statement. When I brought in the Caricarz media team of five people, this machine showed signs of lack of power.

All I can say is that this SUV comes with a weak engine, and its gearbox also does not seem to help to smoothen the movement of the Aruz on the road.

Plus, if you’re speeding on the highway, it will already start to make a noise.

Shaun stated that it's because this machine uses a 4-speed automatic transmission.

For me, this is normal considering that when the engine is operating at high speed, the car’s NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) will be affected due to the engine’s roar.

In short, driving Aruz is very simple because you have to remember Aruz is not a rally or racing car!

Moving on to the exterior, the design that attracted the writer's attention the most was the tapered LED reflector headlight design using the Follow Me Home feature.

Matching the headlights is a chrome grille that further highlights its sporty features.

On its sides, it is adorned with silver linings and Aruz badges on both side steppers.

The rear has matching LED taillights, fog lights, a reverse camera and a glossy black finish.

The new model also comes with a design that leads to a sportier image equipped with 17-inch alloy rims.

The interior is equipped with a touch screen infotainment system with a reverse camera display.

For the AV variant, all seats are coated with HDMI leather material, Smart Link navigation, and a driving video recorder.

In addition, it also offers a variety of seating configurations for the extra load as needed, such as the 60:40 folding or 50:50 if the third-row seats are down.

About the comfort of the passenger side in the second and third rows of seats, I feel that the second row is more suitable for adults while the third row is more suitable for children.

When I tried to sit in the third row, I felt less comfortable, and the space was a little cramped.

Shaun also agreed when he tried out the third row of seats.

“Overall, adults like me may be very uncomfortable; it’s more suitable for children,” he said.

As for the air conditioner, the sense of coolness can be reached up to the third row. In short, the flow of air conditioning is enough for the comfort of all passengers in the back.

The exciting thing about this interior space is that there is quite a lot of storage space for water bottles or cups either at the front door, back and near the third-row seats.

Not to forget the 12V electrical sockets supplied on the front and left side of the third row of seats and on the side of the driver’s seat.

It's easy enough to charge your phone or other devices at any time.

As for its safety features, the machine is equipped with six airbags, Brake Assist, Anti-Lock Brake System, A.S.A 2.0, Isofix system, Pre-Collision Brake system, Pedal Misoperation Control, Grip Control System and Climb Start Assist.