Unveiled today at the heart of Kuala Lumpur, is Malaysia’s cheapest car. Say hello to the all-new Perodua Axia, Perodua’s latest model.
Quick facts on the new Perodua Axia
- Zerotohundred: N/A
- Top Speed : N/A
- Power: 66 hp @ 6,000 rpm
- Torque: 90NM @ 3,600 rpm
- Drivetrain: 4 Speed Automatic / 5 Speed Manual
- Price: RM24,600 E (MT), RM29,800 G (MT), RM32,800 G (AT), RM36,800 SE (MT), RM39,800 SE (AT), RM42,130 Advanced (AT)
The Perodua Axia In A Nutshell
Effectively replacing the 7 year old Perodua Viva, the New Axia shares the same platform as it’s Indonesian cousin, the Toyota Agya and the Daihatsu Ayla. The body has been done inhouse by Perodua. The Axia is an A segment 5 door hatchback that is in the same segment as the Hyundai i10 and the Kia Picanto.
Engine and Performance
For the Axia, Perodua has done away with multiple engine choices like what they did with the Viva in the past. So this time around, all Axia variants will offer the same 1KR-DE DOHC 3-cylinder 1L engine. This is Perodua’s first foray into using aluminium parts in an engine. Unlike the older EF-VE, ED-VE and the EJ-VE that powered the Viva, the new 1KR-DE does not feature any form of variable valve timing. Also a first, the Axia’s automatic transmission is electronically controlled. Perodua has fitted the Axia with an Electric Power Steering system for further fuel savings.
Technology Behind the Brawn
The Perodua Axia is Malaysia’s first Energy Efficient Vehicle (EEV). EEV in Malaysia means that the car complies with a set of predefined specifications which includes fuel consumption and kerb weight. Perodua has done various improvements to the Axia to achieve the EEV status, which includes improving the Axia’s aerodynamics, reducing the overall vehicle weight by using high tensile steel, using low rolling resistance tires, improving engine and transmission matching and reducing engine load by introducing the new Electric Power Steering and the use of 0W-20 fully synthetic engine oil.
Exterior
Since the Axia shares a lot with its Indonesian cousin, it is no surprise that on the exterior, it does look quite similar as well. For the Axia E, the front end is has a simple front end, and does not feature front foglights. The Axia G, features the same looks as the Axia E, but with 14″ alloy wheels as standard.
Perodua Axia, in the standard E trim.
One variant higher than the E, shown here is the Axia 1.0 G
Those opting for a more aggressive looks can opt for the Axia SE, as the Axia SE features a full bodykit, which includes a different front bumper, side skirts and a rear spoiler. All Axia variants will offer rear LED tail lights (Clear type on the SE and Advance) and painted door handles. No more unpainted bumpers from now on.
The Perodua Axia, shown here in Advance trim
Perodua Axia, in SE trim
Interior
For those of you that saw the Perodua concept car back in KLIMS 2013, you would recall that the supposed concept car actually previewed the Axia’s interior. This time around, Perodua has outdone themselves, as all Axia variants will offer all-round power windows. Besides that, those chasing for ultimate fuel savings will be pleased to know that the Axia will have an ECO Drive indicator.
Shown here is the Axia Advance’s interior
For the entertainment front, the Axia E will have no radio. You will have to opt for the Axia G, if you want the radio and speakers. The Axia Advance will have a touchscreen multimedia system with GPS built in.
Other than that, the Axia houses some very clever features, like a built in tissue compartment (housed behind the front passenger seat) and an anti-snatch hook for the female drivers to secure their handbags.
Tissue compartment located conveniently.
The anti-snatch hook for handbags.
Safety
For those who are concerned with safety, you would be very pleased to know that Perodua did not skimp on the safety kit for the Axia. All Axia variants will offering dual front SRS airbags, as well as 4 star Asean NCAP crash test rating. However, ABS, EBD and Brake Assist is only available on the SE and Advance variant only. For the family guy, the Axia G, SE and Advance will offer ISOFIX mount for child seats.
The Perodua Axia will be available in eight colours, consisting of Ivory White, Glittering Silver, Ebony Black, Moonlight Blue, Cherry Blossom, Lemon Grass Green, Sunflower Yellow and Lava Red. Prices stated here are for solid colours, topping up another RM400 gets you the metallic colour option. The Perodua Axia (And all Perodua models sold from 15 September onwards) will carry Perodua’s 5-year warranty.
