With the number of improvements that the full spec 1.5-L Advance Myvi brings, one can easily see why the 1.3-L Premium X would fall a little by the wayside. We had the opportunity to try this specific version of the Myvi out during the judging phase of our Vehicle of the Year Awards earlier this year. The Myvi won that overall, and you can read our review of the 1.5-litre High spec version too.
For now, here are reasons why you might consider the 1.3 Premium X variant.
1. Better value vs the Proton Iriz 1.3 Executive
I can’t think of a more Malaysian car versus match than ‘Myvi vs Iriz’. These are both largely similar vehicles in many ways. Both are B-segment hatchbacks that compete in a similar price bracket. Both have similar mechanical setups, but each is unique. While we must admit that the Iriz is a little more fun to throw around, performance isn’t a primary concern for many shopping for 1.3-litre budget-friendly vehicles. The main concern is value-for-money. In that regard, the 1.3-litre Premium X Myvi has the 1.3-litre Iriz Executive beat.
First of all, the Myvi is a few hundred Ringgit cheaper at RM45,481. It’s also safe to presume that the Myvi is cheaper to run in the long term due to Perodua’s advantages in scale, parts sharing with Daihatsu/Toyota, proven resale value and the number of major components that are built by entities within Perodua’s own ecosystem. The Myvi’s 1.3-litre uses a timing chain instead of a timing belt, which also cuts down maintenance costs and worries.
On the topic of the powertrain. The Myvi’s Dual VVT-i system is at least a generation ahead of the Iriz’s VVT engine. The Myvi’s ‘Eco Idle’ cuts power to the engine when the car is at a stop which saves fuel. These factors, plus the Myvi’s lower weight and the good gearing of the 4-speed automatic give the Myvi a clear edge in terms of fuel efficiency.
While the Iriz is one of the safest vehicles in its class, this variant of the Myvi does have both forward and side airbags for occupants sitting in front. The Executive Iriz comes with just 2 front airbags. Perodua have also added seatbelt reminders on ALL seats which is handy for building the habit of buckling up behind.
One major practicality advantage in the Myvi is the larger boot. You get 277 litres to play with here compared to 215 litres in the Iriz.
The Iriz does have quite a few USB ports, but this version of the Myvi still has more ameneties overall. Front parking sensors can prevent frustrating minor scratches and bumps for the unattentive. Parking in narrow spots is made a little more natural thanks to folding wing mirrors. Steering mounted audio controls take convenience up a notch for the driver. Plus, the digital air conditioner control actually lets you preset 2 climate settings which negates the need for micromanagement of the cooling system.
Drivers of the Myvi Premium X also get minor subjective advantages from the electroluminescent instrument cluster and the LED reflector headlights.
2. Better power, refinement, safety and practicality vs the full-spec Axia
If you’re already budget-conscious and just need something practical for town use, you may consider a cheaper full spec Perodua Axia instead. At less than RM40,000, this is certainly a no-brainer. You even get a few more amenities like navigation and leather upholstery with the full-spec Axia.
To me, the Myvi Premium X still has enough advantages to warrant the higher price tag. First of all, it has mechanical advantages. The 4-cylinder dual VVT-i engine in the Myvi is buttery smooth. 3-cylinder engines don’t have that natural balance. In spite of the size and weight difference, the Myvi has the edge in terms of power-to-weight (67hp for 850kg in the Axia vs 94hp for 975kg in the Myvi). Fuel consumption on the Axia will be a little better, but the Eco Idle feature on the Myvi’s engine can close the gap if you’re someone who gets stuck in traffic often.
The Myvi is also a lot more practical. If you’re moving more than 4 adults, the Axia’s going to show its size disadvantage. The Myvi’s boot is also just a little larger (17 litre advantage). There are also convenience benefits to owning the Myvi Premium X. You get 60:40 split folding rear seats to open up the cargo area. And once more, the digital air conditioner with its presets adds a touch of modernity and convenience.
The Axia may be full spec, but there are things the Myvi in its 1.3L Premium X guise bring that it cannot. On the more important side of things, there’s safety features. Stability control and side airbags for the front passengers are very, VERY important. Plus, you get seatbelt reminders on all seats and LED reflector headlights which have potential in making drives safer.
3. More basic amenities vs the Myvi 1.3 Standard G
If you’re just in need of the Myvi’s basic features, you might want to save a few bucks and opt for a Myvi Standard G. It shares the same engine, transmission as the Premium X, but there are amenities you might want to live with.
Hill Start Assist can take the pressure off when on slopes in heavy traffic. Bluetooth connectivity is something many young people can’t live without. The front parking sensors and folding wing mirrors we mentioned earlier too are missing on the Standard G Myvi, as are front fog lights. These aren’t high priority features, but might be worth the difference in price.
Perodua Myvi 1.3L Premium X Specifications
Engine: 4-cylinder, Dual VVT-i, Naturally Aspirated, 16V, DOHC
Capacity: 1329cc
Gearbox: 4-speed Conventional Automatic
Max power: 94hp @ 6000rpm
Max torque: 121Nm @ 4000rpm
