Perodua Aruz

Malaysia’s automotive industry has come a long way since its inception in the ’80s. Perodua being the relatively newer player has made leaps and bounds over its competitor Proton, culminating in the most popular car the Perodua Aruz.

In terms of pricing, the Aruz wins hand-down as the cheapest 7-seater SUV in town and its performance rivals those In terms of pricing, the Aruz wins hand-down as the cheapest 7-seater SUV in town, topping the likes of Honda BR-V or Toyota Rush.

It is available in two variants – 1.5 X at RM70,846.35 and 1.5 AV at RM75,684.15.

Very nice and clean finish, with a dual-tone effect with metallic linings. Everything is very easily accessible from the driver’s seat for all control.

Supple leather seats for passenger comfort, that come with adjustable seating for people of all sizes.

As a 7-seater it is a bit of a stretch that it could fit 7 fully grown adults. Space would be ideal for a family of 5.

Large storage space with multiple modes of transport. From simple luggage storage to carrying large items like golf bags and heavy equipment or flower pots. This car is ideal for most transportation needs.

All rows are equipped with charging ports, making for easy cable management without wires dangling from the front to the back.

The Aruz has 213 litres of boot space but is expandable with both the 2nd and 3rd-row seats folded.

The Aruz measurements are Length 4,435mm, Width 1,695mm, Height 1,740mm and Wheelbase  2,685mm, Weight 1,380kg and Fuel tank 45 Litres.

Malaysian cars come in many shapes and sizes that only the manufacturer can love and appeals to a very niche demographic (for example Proton Juara that looks like a cereal box).

The Perodua Aruz looks really amazing with a cross-like bumper and sleek lines look really attractive and up-to-date with the amazing designs we have currently.

The back looks equally polished with curves and garnishes to give it that smooth look.

LED with follow-me-home function and light guides which is more common on higher-end SUVs.

Rear tail lamps are bulb units with turn indicators that work well under extreme weather conditions.

Side mirror is power retractable, with added signal indicators for better visibility to other road users.

215/60 R17 17-inch wheels with alloy rims, the stock rims look thin and may need to be replaced with better-looking rims.

The Aruz has been rated as 5-Star by ASEAN NCAP Safety Rating, Aruz Advanced Safety Assist (A.S.A.) 2.0*, Aruz Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Aruz Traction Control (TRC), Aruz Hill-Start Assist (HSA), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA), Emergency Stop Signal (ESS), ISOFIX System, Seat Belt Reminder.

6 SRS Airbags is the best in class that is available for this segment.

Multimedia System with Navigation and ‘Smart Link’. Pretty basic setup but usable. (For Android Only)*

4 midrange speakers and 2 tweeters do not expect it to be a party vehicle, the sound immersion is barely there.

The Aruz uses a similar 1.5-litre engine as the Myvi, mated to a four-speed automatic that sends power to the rear wheels. 

The mill makes 101hp @ 6,000rpm and 133Nm@4,200rpm. The official fuel consumption is 15.6km per litre.

The engine is eager to rev and pulls strongly at mid-range speeds allowing it to overtake and build up more speed easily.

4 EA-T, is a 4 speed transmission that does the job adequately for this vehicle type.

It is a front-wheel-drive unit.

13 l/100km makes it easy on the wallet.

The Perodua Aruz comes equipped with Smart Entry with Smart Key, Digital Air Conditioner Controller, Reverse Camera, Integrated Driving Video Recorder (DVR), Push Start/Stop Button, Central Lock Button, Auto Light Control, All Rows are Equipped with Power Outlet, 4 Mid-range Speakers, and 2 Tweeters and Built-in Toll Reader.

Rear air vents are available and a must for MPVs of this size for a comfortable environment.

Comfortable for 5, when driving make sure to take into account of swaying as the car is rather high. Tips do not take sharp corners or the swaying will cause motion sickness for those not used to tall vehicles.

The car sound insulation is mediocre, where wind and road noises can easily be heard at high speeds.

Great price point, updated design ease to use are what makes the Perodua Aruz such a good buy. Especially when MPVs and SUVs have gained popularity over the years.

If you are looking for a budget and handsome looking car in the market, the Perodua Aruz is a great choice for all customers.