Our very own Malaysia made car. The Perodua Kelisa is remarkable well built economical runabout with a low fuel appetite from its Daihatsu-sourced engine of only 1.0-litre capacity producing just 54 bhp, but its delivery is fantastic with its lightweight chassis. With the Myvi still gathering huge sales, many Kelisa owners are trading up thus causing a huge availability of well looked after single owner Kelisa’s arriving in the used car lots. The interior is also very well made, as cars designed by Japanese engineers tend to be. The interior plastics are hard and they fit well and after some harsh Klang valley roads it has minimal rattles or creaks unless abused. Build quality is good, though panels and trim can feel a bit lightweight. Interior space and finish are well above national car benchmark standards, and rear seats lack legroom for big adults. The Kelisa is easy to drive. It’s agile enough around town and at normal speeds, and the twin cam 1.0 liter engine is refined at speed. Even though it sells for a reasonable price, the Kelisa does not lack technology. That little 989cc engine is a sophisticated unit.
Fuel economy is good and depreciation was holding well until recently when many have entered the used market. These cars are reasonable to buy now, but they remain reliable and easy to own. Interesting versions have been introduced in the past 6 years with Mini-look alike stripes and two tone colours. Prices are also varied depending on these versions, however as a guide you should look at RM17,000 to RM19,000 for an early 2001 manual version and RM22,000 to RM23,000 for a 5-6 year old automatic in showroom condition. Many are used to travel just to work and back so a little mileage and run is good for the car.
