Suzuki closed shop in Malaysia last year, much to the dismay of many their loyal local fans. This was a car company that was very much in touch with the way Malaysians perceived Japanese cars – they were cheap to run, reliable, built to last decades and well-thought out. The designs were always pleasant to look at and down-to-earth.
Plus, they built cars that were well-priced while staying sufficiently modern.
Today, finding a new Suzuki can be quite the task. The showrooms have all been closed down. Perhaps there are still a few stray Swifts or SX4s left in stock, but officially the brand is no more here.
What if you really wanted all those traits in a car? Where could you look today?
The answer:
The Suzuki Proton Ertiga.
Yes, it bears the Proton badge. But this car is 99.9% Suzuki. Proton simply changed the badges and added a few pieces of trim.
We test drove it over the weekend and found the car to be extremely well-packaged. There was simply nothing to complain about when we considered just how low the asking price was.
And just how low IS the asking price? Consider this, it has:
- Air conditioning for the second row
- Seatbelts for 6, but room for 7
- A radio with USB playback
- Quick 3rd row seat Smart Access
- Mind-blowing efficiency (5 pax to Malacca and back for RM45 (avg 6.2L/100km) of petrol!)
With all that, as well as Suzuki build quality, they’re still only asking for RM62,000!
Most Malaysians are prepared to drop that kind of money for a sedan or hatchback, but we guarantee the Ertiga offers better value.
Check back for a full review later this week.
Waiting ertiga sport
Suzuki Ertiga launching date?
I heard that Suzuki has departed from Proton. What is the current situation like? Can Suzuki sell their cars again locally?
Suzuki cars are not sold in Malaysia right now and there is a new partner being processed. The return of Suzuki to Malaysia should be before this year end if all goes well.