By GK | Pics by Azyzie Zakaria

Beginning its journey back in 1994, Perodua has walked a great distance to where it is now, growing bigger and wiser by every step taken forward, surprising everyone who have been keeping an eye on its progress. Now, for those who just went “yea, right”, Perodua just finished at the top of the 2009 car sales chart once again, for the fourth time in a row with 166,700 units sold. Still having doubts?

When words started spreading that there will be a new Perodua MPV heading our way, there were all sorts of mixed reactions coming from our local friendly neighbourhood motoring pundits; with some saying that it’s going to be a joke, some getting excited that something better than the Myvi is on the way, and some getting so curious that they began neglecting their day jobs and started scouting for spy-shots!

And so, after all the hype and two months upon being launched last November, the much anticipated Perodua Alza finally reached the shores of ON THE ROAD with a cheerful “grin”, waiting to be reviewed. The first thing that popped up my head after looking at the Classy Purple 1.5 (M) Premium SXi Alza was the late Sudirman’s legendary song, “Balik Kampung”, as its first appearance made a clear statement that now anyone can own this economic MPV and have a great trip with their loved ones.

The Alza basically looks like a more cheerful, elongated Myvi-Viva mash-up, which is not that bad of an idea as it does not only make you recognize that it’s a Perodua, but also has its distinctive features that makes it look different from its sisters and rivals like the Proton Exora and the Toyota Avanza. Besides that, the Perodua Alza’s unique selling point in terms of exterior features is that it looks pretty decent, with the right amount of details given. Not too much, and not too little – “Just nice”.

Would your grandparents be proud of you landing in front of their house during holidays in the Perodua Alza? Definitely!

Inside, simplicity is at its best again. The two-tone instrument panel looks neat and comes fitted with basic functions – Air cond vents, Audio system with USB and Bluetooth functions (only for the Premium range), and the air cond levers. Despite the fact that there are limited features on the panel, it does not look empty, thanks to the perfectly expanded audio system that comes with easy-to-reach big buttons.The highlight of the front panel has to be the trendy blue illuminated centre meter panel which also has a Multi-info Display showing the necessary details that we need to know such as average fuel consumption and maximum travelling range.

In terms of space, the Alza has good amount of room for both the head and legs around the first and second row seats; making it possible for four six-footers to sit comfortably, thanks to the generous 2750mm long wheelbase. However, the third row seems to be a little fiddly as its narrower compared to the first two rows. But based on the size of average Malaysians, it shouldn’t be a problem for two adults to fit the third row perfectly.

With a strong air-conditioning system, 12 cup-holders, under-seat trays, and around six storage compartments fitted anywhere and everywhere possible inside the Alza, it is evident that Perodua made practicality and comfort the ultimate priorities.

To enhance safety, the Alza comes with dual SRS airbags, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and also the Brake Assist feature to prevent tyres from locking and also to provide the Alza more grip and control during emergencies. Other vital safety features include the collapsible steering shaft to reduce frontal impact, and an immobiliser system to prevent thefts.

Under the hood, the Alza comes fitted with the 1.5L 16-Valve DVVT DOHC engine that produces a maximum output of 105PS at 6000rpm and maximum torque of 136Nm at 4400rpm, delivering a way better ‘power to weight’ ratio compared to its rivals. First hand, I was quite surprised with the amount of power the Alza delivered and how smooth the ‘pick-up’ was, during both highway cruising and also during the times when I needed the boost to climb hills. Despite the fact that it’s an MPV, the Alza behaves exactly like a car in terms of performance. This was when I realized what Perodua meant by referring to the Alza as ‘car one moment, MPV the next’.

In all, the Perodua Alza is a definite dream-come-true for those who have been waiting for a decent, budget MPV as it is not only very economical, but also looks good, performs well and has every feature that you need to “Balik Kampung” safe and sound, in style.

Engine: DOHC, 16-Valve with DVVT 

Displacement: 1,495cc

Maximum Output: 104PS@6,000rpm

Maximum Torque: 136Nm @4,400rpm

Fuel Tank: 42L

Kerb Weight: 1148kg

Wheels: 15 inch Alloy

Price: RM66, 490.00 OTR

Road Tax: RM180.00 per year