Perodua Bezza Sedan

• Perodua Bezza taxi rendered by Theophilus Chin

  In Cars, Local News, Malaysian Makes, Perodua, Public Transport / By Jonathan Lee / 12 August 2016 12:11 pm / 53 comments

  

  As Perodua’s first sedan, the new Perodua Bezza provides levels of boot space and luggage security hitherto unheard of for the national carmaker. In fact, resident rendering wizard Theophilus Chin thinks it is perfect to be used as a taxi, so much so that he has actually put his Photoshop brushes to work on creating his vision of what a Bezza cab would look like!

  We think the Bezza looks the part resplendent in red and white, with unpainted black plastic bumpers recalling the old Proton Saga Iswara taxis of yore – although it has to be said that real Malaysian taxis have been wearing body-coloured bumpers for some time now.

  Adding to the utilitarian flavour are the steel wheels borrowed from the Axia 1.0 E and side rubbing strips that are reminiscent of those on the current Proton Saga – the ones sold in the GearUp accessories lineup are mounted higher up the doors.

  

  Widely regarded as the fiercest competition to the Saga, the Bezza could stand a real chance of snatching the bowl away from the Proton in the latter’s key taxi market. The only problem would be the engine size – the Bezza biggest mill is a 1.3 litre Dual VVT-i unit.

  Although we generally feel that the 94 hp/121 Nm engine’s performance is more than adequate for such a light car, engine displacement is a big factor for taxi drivers, which is why taxi-spec Sagas have had to be equipped with bigger 1.6 litre engines. Perhaps the upcoming 1.5 litre NR engine slated for the next-gen Myvi could be what Perodua needs to make the Bezza worthy of the “teksi bermeter” light bar.

  What do you think of Theophilus Chin’s take on a Perodua Bezza taxi? How do you think a fare-earning Perodua sedan would, er, fare? Sound off in the comments section after the jump.

  GALLERY: Perodua Bezza sedan

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• Perodua Bezza security patrol car displayed at launch

  In Cars, Local News, Malaysian Makes, Perodua / By Jonathan Lee / 21 July 2016 10:02 pm / 42 comments

  

  The covers have just been pulled off the new Perodua Bezza sedan, but the national carmaker also had a bit of a surprise in store – the company displayed a security patrol version of the car at the launch here at the One World Hotel in Bandar Utama. The car was primarily used to showcase the Bezza’s versatility, in an effort to entice potential fleet buyers such as the police and private security firms.

  As such, this Premium X model is fitted with a number of additional equipment, such as a light bar and several LED strobe lights that dot the exterior of the car, along with a special reflective security livery. Inside, this Bezza’s changes are limited to a CB radio and a control panel for the light bar.

  These additions go on top of the standard specification of the Premium X, which includes 14-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, keyless entry, push-button start, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, a smartphone slot with a USB charging port, dual airbags and ABS with EBD.

  

  

  

  Of course, these utilitarian-minded customers are probably less enamoured by the kit on board, and are more interested in the fact that the Premium X model features the larger 1NR-VE 1.3 litre Dual VVT-i engine, producing 94 hp at 6,000 rpm and 121 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. Power is sent through the front wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission on this car.

  So, what do you think of the security-spec Perodua Bezza? Could it be making the rounds in your neighbourhood soon? Sound off in the comments section after the jump.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• Perodua Bezza officially launched – first ever sedan, 1.0 VVT-i and 1.3 Dual VVT-i, RM37k to RM51k EEV

  In Cars, Local Car Launches, Local News, Perodua / By Danny Tan / 21 July 2016 8:48 pm / 158 comments

  

  Much has been said and revealed about the Perodua Bezza, but the company’s first ever sedan has not been officially launched. Till now. Moments ago, the Energy Efficient Vehicle (EEV) rated sedan was officially revealed by Minister of International Trade and Industry Datuk Seri Mustapa bin Mohamed in Bandar Utama.

  You already know that the Bezza – name derived from the Malay word ‘beza’, which means different – comes in five variants and two engines (1.0 litre VVT-i and 1.3 litre Dual VVT-i, 5MT and 4AT available), that it’s a five-star ASEAN NCAP-rated car (for the Vehicle Stability Control-equipped 1.3 Advance, four-star for the other variants), and that it will come with a GearUp bodykit and accessories.

  You also already know the new model’s price, which range from RM37k to RM51k, and read our first impressions test drive report that surfaced before the official media preview and accompanying Bezza story blitz last Saturday. So here’s a recap of all that we know about the new sedan that’s “Beyond Compact”.

  Axia platform, big boot

  The Bezza is an in-house effort (there’s no existing Daihatsu/Toyota model) with 95% local content, and took RM300 million to develop. Based on the Axia‘s platform, and shares the same 2,455 mm wheelbase length as Malaysia’s most popular car. Also similar to the Axia is the width (1,620 mm) and height (1,510 mm). But with the addition of a very big boot (at 508 litres, it’s bigger than the boot of the Vios and there’s a full size spare beneath), the Bezza is 510 mm longer than the Axia, at 4,150 mm.

  

  The Bezza is positioned as an entry A-segment sedan, which means that the inevitable comparison with the Proton Saga cannot be avoided. The Saga, which is due for a revision soon, has a larger footprint – it’s 4,278 mm long (+128 mm), 1,680 mm wide (+60 mm) and 1,520 mm tall (+10 mm), with a slightly longer 2,465 mm wheelbase (+10 mm).

  One can counter dimensions with packaging, and that’s what Perodua has done. Despite the length and wheelbase deficit, the Bezza has 32 mm better tandem distance (distance between the front and rear passengers) than the Saga. P2’s measuring tapes also put the Bezza’s TD higher than the Vios’ by 3 mm. The 508L boot is almost 100 litres bigger than the Saga’s (413 litres).

  

  Rear headroom is the same as the Axia, which means while it should be adequate for most, there’s no Myvi-style abundant headroom here. Speaking of the Myvi, while it’s technically from a segment above, the Axia’s better packaging and space utilisation means that the smaller hatchback has a 50 mm longer interior length and cabin width that’s 5 mm superior. The Bezza should have the same advantage, bar headroom.

  The Bezza is pretty versatile for a sedan. The rear seat backs split fold 60:40 (although not fully flat) and the front passenger seat back can be tilted back fully to accomodate long items such as that curtain rail from Ikea.

  New engines, VVT-i introduced

  The Bezza comes with two engine options – 1.0L and 1.3L. Both can be had with a five-speed manual gearbox or four-speed automatic transmission. The top-spec 1.3 Advance is auto-only.

  The 1KR-VE 1.0 litre three-cylinder engine is related to the 1KR-DE2 in the Axia, but not identical. The sedan’s KR engine gets VVT-i variable valve timing (with the same Toyota logo, previously branded as DVVT), a higher compression ratio (11.5 vs 11.0), reduced friction and improved combustion – all measures to improve fuel consumption over the already thrifty Axia. Figures are up slightly too – 67 hp at 6,000 rpm and 91 Nm at 4,400 rpm vs the Axia’s 66 hp at 6,000 rpm and 90 Nm at 3,600 rpm.

  

  Measures include a high-tumble intake port that increases intake air tumble flow through the use of a funnel-shaped intake port. This increases the velocity of the air coming in, raising the intake volume ratio and resulting in improved combustion efficiency and increased power.

  There’s also a longer intake manifold to compensate for the engine’s reduced power when the VVT-i system is in its most economical setting, while a micro spray injector has been incorporated to optimise fuel spray shape and minimise fuel atomisation time, facilitating more rapid combustion. Lastly, the valve lifters have been finely finished to reduce surface roughness by as much as 90%, contributing to lower friction.

  The Bezza’s 1.3 litre NR engine is a new one in the Toyota family and not a carryover from the Myvi, which 1,298 cc K3-VE makes 90 hp and 117 Nm. The 1NR-VE made its ASEAN debut in the facelifted Toyota Avanza/Daihatsu Xenia in Indonesia last year, and pushes out 94 hp at 6,000 rpm and 121 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm in the Bezza. The 1,329 cc motor comes from P2’s new engine plant in Sendayan, Negeri Sembilan, for local consumption (1.0L made in Rawang).

  

  

  The NR engine family (there’s also a 1.5L version in the Avanza) comes with intake and exhaust Dual VVT-i, teflon coating for the pistons (to reduce friction and improve durability), larger water jackets (better cooling, improved combustion, lower noise), roller rocker arm (reduces friction between rocker arm and camshaft) and iridium spark plugs (the 1.0L KR in the Bezza and Axia also uses the latter).

  Meanwhile, the cylinder head has also been redesigned with optimised intake and exhaust ports, as well as a revised combustion chamber shape. As with the 1.0 litre mill, the NR’s compression ratio stands at 11.5:1, a significant increase from the Myvi’s 10.0:1.

  Revisions have been made to the four-speed auto to reduce mechanical losses, while the transmission lock-up range has been expanded in third and fourth gear during acceleration and steady-state running. Lock-up has also been added to these ratios under deceleration. Perodua has also increased fuel cut time under deceleration.

  Efficiency is the main goal – up to 22.8 km/l

  The Perodua Bezza was designed to be export-ready, and counts compact sedans like the Honda Brio Amaze and Mitsubishi Attrage as benchmarks. Space and affordability aside, fuel efficiency is a main goal for cars like these, and the Bezza does well.

  

  

  Besides engine efficiency as described above, Perodua has worked to make the Bezza its most aerodynamic car ever. Being a sedan helps of course, but the Cd value of 0.286 is also helped by under floor covers to smoothen airflow and reduce drag. The use of a “shark fin” style antenna and air spats at the bottom of the front bumper also help the cause. Mini fins on the side of the rear lamp cluster and wing mirror area improve stability at speed.

  Perodua has also worked together with Bridgestone and Silverstone for unique tyres with reduced rolling resistance. The 175/65 R14 tyres – BS Ecopia on the 1.3 and SS Kruizer on the 1.0 – have 10% less rolling resistance compared to the rubber on the Axia, further boosting FC.

  The biggest enemy of efficiency is weight. To reduce that, P2 used high tensile steel in strategic areas, which reduced weight as panel thickness can be reduced without sacrificing rigidity, as proven in the ASEAN NCAP crash test. The Bezza is a flyweight and tips the scales at just 865 kg for the base 1.0 MT to 930 kg for the top 1.3 Advance with all the bells and whistles. Whole range below one tonne.

  

  

  Of course, there’s also the Eco Idle auto stop-start system that’s a first for a national car – for all cars below RM100k, only the Mazda 2 has idle stop, once a preserve of hybrids and premium Continental models. Available on the 1.3 Advance, Eco Idle improves FC by around 1 km/l, Perodua says. Regenerative braking, which harvests energy when braking and decelerating, is also present alongside Eco Idle in the range-topper.

  Results? The 1.0L manual does 22.8 km/l, which is the best in the family. The 1.0L auto does 21.3 km/l. It’s 21.7 km/l for the 1.3 manual and 21 km/l for the 1.3 auto. For the 1.3 Advance auto with Eco Idle, fuel economy is 22 km/l in the ECE mode. Minus off a couple of kilometeres per litre for real world driving and the returns should be still very decent. The efficiency benchmark for the refreshed Saga that’s coming this year is high indeed.

  Perodua Bezza pricing and equipment

  The top-spec Bezza, which is just above RM50k, comes with plenty of equipment new to both Perodua and cars in the price bracket. Besides the Dual VVT-i engine and Eco Idle system, the 1.3 Advance sports Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), front passenger seat belt reminder, keyless entry and push start with remote boot release, leather seats with a quilted pattern and a touchscreen head unit with navigation, and reverse camera.

  

  The latter, a 2DIN unit with Bluetooth, comes with Smart Link, which is what Perodua calls Mirror Link. This allows for Android users to pair up their smartphone with the ICE system, meaning that apps such as Waze and Google Maps can be displayed on the car’s screen.

  Safety wise, variants get dual front airbags, ABS brakes and Isofix child seat mounts. The 1.3 Advance adds on VSC, front passenger seat belt reminder (both needed to get five stars from ASEAN NCAP) and Hill Start Assist.

  Prices for the five variants, on-the-road including insurance, are as follows:

  • 1.0 Standard G MT – RM37,300
  • 1.0 Standard G AT – RM39,300
  • 1.3 Premium X MT – RM42,800
  • 1.3 Premium X AT – RM44,800
  • 1.3 Advance AT – RM50,800

  

  

  Perodua Bezza 1.0 Standard G

  • 14-inch alloy wheels
  • Fabric seats
  • Polyurethane steering wheel
  • Audio system with USB
  • Handphone slot (at the rear console)
  • Fixed rear seat headrests
  • 60:40 split folding rear seats
  • Remote boot release
  • Manual side mirrors
  • Body-mounted signal indicators
  • Reverse sensors
  • Power windows
  • Dual airbags (front passenger and driver)
  • ABS with EBD

  

  

  Perodua Bezza 1.3 Premium X

  • Audio system with USB and Bluetooth
  • Handphone slot with 5V/2A USB charging port (at the rear console)
  • Adjustable rear seat headrests
  • Keyless entry and push-start
  • Boot release button on the boot
  • Chrome door handles
  • Side mirror indicators
  • Front fog lamps
  • Front parking sensors
  • Jam protection for the driver-side power window
  • Premium trim (gloss black, silver accents, fabric door card inserts)
  • Solar and security window film
  • Key fob

  

  

  

  Perodua Bezza 1.3 Advance

  • Different design two-tone 14-inch wheels
  • Leather seats
  • Leather steering wheel with multimedia system controls
  • Eco Idle System
  • Side skirting
  • Powered, retractable side mirrors
  • Front passenger seat belt reminder
  • Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)
  • Traction control
  • Hill start assist
  • Multimedia system with navigation, Smart Link and reverse camera
  • Additional trim details

  

  

  Perodua has also designed a GearUp bodykit and accessories for the Bezza. There’s a “Dynamic” five-piece bodykit (front and rear bumper extensions, side skirts, boot spoiler) retailing for RM2,000, and a upholstery pack for the seats and door cards going for RM900. Take both and it’s RM2,600, RM300 less than the à la carte price. There’s also a “Stylish Package” that combines the bodykit with door visors and door protector strips for RM2,265. Available for all variants.

  The six available colours are Lava Red, Ebony Black, Glittering Silver, Solid Ivory White, Sugar Brown and Ocean Blue – the latter two are new to Perodua and only for the 1.3L. The car comes with a five-year or 100,000 km warranty. Reed our first impressions test drive report.

  Browse full specification and equipment of all Perodua Bezza variants on CarBase.my.

  GALLERY: Perodua Bezza 1.3L Advance
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  
  GALLERY: Perodua Bezza 1.3L Premium X
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  
  GALLERY: Perodua Bezza 1.0L Standard G
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  
  GALLERY: Perodua Bezza GearUp
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  
  GALLERY: Perodua Bezza official photos
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  
  GALLERY: Perodua Bezza GearUp official photos
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• Analysts raise Perodua sales forecasts due to Bezza

  In Cars, Local News, Malaysian Makes, Perodua / By Jonathan Lee / 21 July 2016 10:34 am / 60 comments

  

  We’re still several hours away from the launch of the Perodua Bezza, but the second national carmaker’s first sedan has already caused quite a stir, with The Star reporting that Maybank Investment Bank Research is raising its sales forecasts for the company because of the huge interest in the model.

  The research house revealed that it was raising its Perodua sales forecasts for the calendar years of 2016, 2017 and 2018 from 220,000, 217,000 and 205,000 units to 225,000, 250,000 and 240,000 units respectively. Higher sales numbers are also expected to increase the earnings forecasts for beneficiaries such as parent company UMW Holdings and suppliers MBM Resources and Pecca Group by between 1% and 12%.

  “In terms of exposure to Perodua, we believe that MBM is the largest with Perodua being a 22.6%-owned associate which accounts for 80% to 85% of MBM’s bottomline. We estimate about 10% to 11% of Perodua cars sold in Malaysia are via MBM’s DMM Sales; auto parts supplies (i.e. seatbelts, airbags and wheels) [are] via Hirotako and Oriental Metal Industries (OMI), both under MBM.

  

  

  “Pecca benefits as the sole supplier of leather car seat covers to the automaker while UMW sees positive exposure from its 38% stake in Perodua itself,” it stated.

  Perodua expect to sell nearly 8,000 units of the Bezza per month in 2016, and 38,000 units for the remaining five months of the year. Maybank IB has been conservative in its projections for the model, raising sales forecasts from 15,000, 30,000 and 25,000 units in 2016, 2017 and 2018 to 30,000, 84,000 and 70,000 units.

  However, it only raised its forecasts for total Perodua sales by 2% to 17% to account for the Bezza’s expected cannibalisation of Myvi sales, as well as slower sales of the dated Alza.

  

  To be built at Perodua’s new plant in Serendah, the Bezza has a local content of 95%. The Bezza’s new 1NR-VE 1.3 litre Dual VVT-i engine will be manufactured at a new engine plant in Sendayan, where another new plant, which will build the car’s electronic automatic transmission (E-AT), is also situated.

  Priced at between RM37,300 for the 1.0 Standard G manual and RM50,800 for the range-topping 1.3 Advance auto, the Bezza comes with kit including LED tail lights, keyless entry, push button start, front parking sensors, a USB smartphone charging port, a touchscreen multimedia system, a reverse camera and hill start assist, many of which are new to the brand.

  Safety-wise, all models come with dual airbags, but ABS with EBD is now standard-fit as well. What’s more, the Advance model also gets Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), allowing it to nab Perodua’s first five-star ASEAN NCAP rating (all other models get four stars).

  

  Two engines are available for the Bezza, the first a 67 hp/91 Nm 1KR-VE 1.0 litre VVT-i engine and the aforementioned 94 hp/121 Nm 1NR-VE 1.3 litre Dual VVT-i mill. These engines are paired to either a five-speed manual transmission of a four-speed automatic.

  Such is the public interest in the Bezza that Maybank IB sees it as a threat to Proton’s offerings – the Saga, Iriz and Persona are reported to make up a combined 70,000 to 75,000 units of the carmaker’s 102,000 sales in 2015. It has to be said, however, that Proton will launch the new Saga and Persona this year.

  GALLERY: Perodua Bezza 1.3 Advance

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2016 Perodua Bezza – watch the launch live Thursday July 21 from 8pm onwards, exclusively on paultan.org

  In Cars, Local Car Launches, Local News, Malaysian Makes, Perodua / By Jonathan Lee / 18 July 2016 2:36 pm / 81 comments

  It’s a big day for Perodua this Thursday – the second national carmaker will be introducing its first sedan, the 2016 Perodua Bezza, in just three days. And you’ll be able to watch this historic moment right from the comfort of your own computer, smartphone or tablet, as paultan.org is proud to bring you exclusive live streaming coverage of the launch event, happening on July 21 from 8pm onwards!

  That’s right, aside from reading our usual comprehensive launch report, you will also be able to watch it being unveiled before your eyes, before anyone else, right from this website! Be the first to see the new car inside and out and learn of all the details, specifications and equipment count for all variants – as long as your device’s browser supports YouTube streaming, you’ll be able to watch it anywhere.

  So what do we know about the car itself? Well, pretty much everything, really, most importantly the price – the Bezza will start at RM37,300 (auto RM39,300) for the base 1.0 Standard G, rising up to RM42,800 (auto RM44,800) for the mid-table 1.3 Premium X and topping off at RM50,800 for the auto-only 1.3 Advance. Prices are the same for solid or metallic paint and include a five-year/150,000 km warranty.

  

  

  Full kit count has also been revealed, with standard equipment including 14-inch alloy wheels, LED tail lights and USB audio. The Premium X variant tacks on front fog lights, keyless entry, push button start, front parking sensors, power-adjustable door mirrors, Bluetooth and a USB charging port, while the Advance adds two-tone alloys, leather seats, a touchscreen multimedia system, a reverse camera and hill start assist.

  Safety has taken a significant step upwards – as usual for Perodua, all models come with dual airbags, but ABS with EBD is now standard-fit as well, a first for Perodua (the single-spec, imported-from-Japan Nautica SUV notwithstanding). What’s more, the Advance model also gets Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), allowing it to nab Perodua’s first five-star ASEAN NCAP rating (all other models get four stars).

  Two new engine choices are available for the Bezza, the first a 1.0 litre 1KR-VE VVT-i unit seen in the baseline Standard G manual and auto. Output is 67 hp at 6,000 rpm and 91 Nm at 4,400 rpm (slightly higher than the Axia’s non-VVT-i 1KR-DE2’s 66 hp at 6,000 rpm and 90 Nm at 3,600 rpm).

  

  The other is a 1.3 litre unit called the 1NR-VE, equipping the Premium X and Advance models. Good for 94 hp at 6,000 rpm and 121 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, the dual VVT-i mill is not the same as that seen on the Myvi (K3-VE, with 90 hp and 117 Nm). Transmission options are a five-speed manual or four-speed auto for the Standard G and Premium X, while the Advance is only available with an auto.

  So stay tuned to watch the exclusive live stream of the launch of the 2016 Perodua Bezza this Thursday, July 21 at 8pm, right here on paultan.org. See you then!

  GALLERY: Perodua Bezza 1.3 Advance

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• Perodua Bezza prices revealed – RM37k to RM51k

  In Cars, Local News, Malaysian Makes, Perodua / By Anthony Lim / 16 July 2016 8:21 am / 119 comments

  
  

  While the Perodua Bezza hasn’t been officially launched yet, bookings have opened for the car as of today with a RM300 booking fee, and the national carmaker has now revealed the official pricing of its first-ever sedan.

  As previously reported, the Bezza will be available in five variant forms, spread over three models (base Standard G, midline Premium X and range-topping Advance) in the range, and these are priced at:

  • Standard G (1.0 G manual) – RM37,300
  • Standard G (1.0 G automatic) – RM39,300
  • Premium X (1.3 X manual) – RM42,800
  • Premium X (1.3 X automatic) – RM44,800
  • Advance (1.3 AV automatic) – RM50,800

  The prices quoted above are for Peninsular Malaysia and on-the-road with insurance. Additionally, the prices include a five-year (or 150,000 km) warranty, and unlike that in the past (for example, the Axia), both solid and metallic versions of the Bezza go for exactly the same price. Six colours will be offered for the car, with two new metallic shades, Sugar Brown and Ocean Blue, available for the 1.3L variants. Other colours are Lava Red, Ebony Black, Glittering Silver and Solid Ivory White.

  Additionally, Perodua has also released a GearUp package for the Bezza, where you can tag on a bodykit to the sedan, as well as various other enhancements inside and out. Prices start at RM900, and you can find out more information about the Bezza GearUp package, here.

  

  

  

  

  To recap, two new engine choices are available for the Bezza, the first a 1.0 litre 1KR-VE VVT-i unit seen in the baseline Standard G manual and auto. Output is 67 hp at 6,000 rpm and 91 Nm at 4,400 rpm (slightly higher than the Axia’s 1KR-DE2’s 66 hp at 6,000 rpm and 90 Nm at 3,600 rpm.).

  The other is a 1.3 litre unit called the 1NR-VE, equipping the Premium X and Advance models. Good for 94 hp at 6,000 rpm and 121 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, the dual VVT-i mill is not the same as that seen on the Myvi (K3-VE, with 90 hp and 117 Nm). Transmission options are a five-speed manual or four-speed auto for the Standard G and Premium X, while the Advance is only available with an auto.

  The Bezza features kit such as a shark fin antenna, remote boot release, one-touch power window with jam protection, front and front corner sensors, a reverse camera and reverse sensors. Keyless entry with a push-start button – a first for the brand – is available on the Premium X and Advance versions, which also come with a USB port (5V/2A) for rear passengers (located at the tail end of the centre console).

  All variants are equipped with dual-airbags, ABS and Isofix child seat mounts, and on the range-topping Advance, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Hill Start Assist are to be found. The Advance also features a touchscreen double-DIN head unit with Mirror Link.

  Read our first drive impressions of the Perodua Bezza. We’ll have more details about the car very soon, so stay tuned.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• Perodua Bezza sedan – order books open on July 16

  In Cars, Local News, Malaysian Makes, Perodua / By Anthony Lim / 14 July 2016 8:41 pm / 123 comments

  

  Perodua has announced that its new Bezza sedan will be open for booking at all 181 showrooms across the country from this Saturday, July 16. As detailed in both our first drive and initial specification stories earlier today, the car will go on sale in five variant forms, the 1.0L Standard G (manual and auto), the 1.3L Premium X (manual and auto) and the range-topping 1.3 Advance (auto only).

  Explaining the name, Perodua president and CEO Datuk Aminar Rashid Salleh said that the new car breaks all conventions when it comes to what is expected from a compact sedan. “The sedan name takes inspiration from the word Beza in Bahasa Malaysia, which means ‘different’. And that is exactly what Perodua’s first EEV sedan is – distinctly different,” he explained.

  As for the double ‘Z’ in the name, the company states that this somewhat resembles the number 22, which subtly alludes to how long the automaker has been around. The ‘Beyond Compact’ tagline, meanwhile, is supposed to communicate how the Bezza goes beyond drivers’ expectations of what a Malaysian sedan offers.

  

  

  

  Aside from the equipment mentioned in the earlier stories, the Bezza features kit such as a shark fin antenna, remote boot release, one-touch power window with jam protection, front and front corner sensors, a reverse camera and reverse sensors.

  A total of six colours will be offered for the Bezza, with two new metallic shades, Sugar Brown and Ocean Blue, being available for the 1.3L variants. These join the existing Lava Red, Ebony Black, Glittering Silver and Solid Ivory White in the exterior colour palette available for the car.

  Read our first drive report on the Perodua Bezza, and you can check out the initial specifications of the sedan here.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• Perodua Bezza – initial specifications of the new sedan

  In Cars, Local News, Malaysian Makes, Perodua / By Anthony Lim / 14 July 2016 1:11 pm / 135 comments

  

  

  

  You’ve read our first drive report on the new Perodua Bezza – the automaker’s first-ever sedan will be launched very soon, but ahead of that, here are the relevant details about the D63D.

  The Bezza sits on the Axia’s platform, so it’s not a “Myvi Sedan” as initially anticipated. It measures in at 4,150 mm long, 1,620 mm wide and 1,510 mm tall, making it 510 mm longer than the Axia, but similar in width and height. The Axia’s 2,455 mm-long wheelbase remains unchanged here.

  Just for comparison, the Myvi is – obviously – shorter, but wider and taller, stretching the tape at 3,685 mm (-465 mm) long, 1,665 mm wide (+45 mm) and 1,570 mm tall (+60 mm), with a 2,440 mm-long wheelbase (-15 mm).

  The inevitable comparison with the Proton Saga cannot be avoided, so here it is – the Proton is a larger car, at 4,278 mm (+128 mm), 1,680 mm (+60 mm) and 1,520 mm (+10 mm), with a slightly longer wheelbase (2,465 mm, +10 mm).

  

  Three models will be available at point of launch, a base 1.0 litre Bezza Standard G and two 1.3 litre versions, a midline Bezza Premium X and range-topping Bezza Advance.

  The Standard G and Premium X are available with five-speed manual and four-speed automatic transmission options, while the Advance comes only in four-speed auto form, making for a total of five variants in the line-up.

  Both engines are new to the brand. The 1.0 litre unit seen in the Standard G is a 1KR-VE, which isn’t identical to the 1KR-DE2 seen in the Axia. The new mill features VVT-i variable valve timing (previously branded as DVVT), a higher compression ratio, reduced friction and improved combustion.

  The revisions have brought output numbers up slightly – 67 hp at 6,000 rpm and 91 Nm at 4,400 rpm vs the Axia’s 66 hp at 6,000 rpm and 90 Nm at 3,600 rpm.

  

  

  As for the 1.3 litre unit, the Dual VVT-i engine is new to the Toyota family and is not the same seen on the Myvi (K3-VE, 90 hp, 117 Nm). The 1NR-VE – which made its ASEAN debut in the facelifted Toyota Avanza/Daihatsu Xenia in Indonesia last year – pushes out 94 hp at 6,000 rpm and 121 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm in the Bezza.

  Some fuel consumption figures, as touted by Perodua, and these range from 21 km per litre for the four-speed Premium X to 22.8 km per litre for the Standard G five-speed manual. The Bezza is said to be more frugal than the Axia – Perodua says that in 1.0 litre, four-speed auto form and measured in ECE mode, the Bezza is good for 21.3 km per litre compared to 20.1 km per litre off the Axia.

  Other numbers, concerning kerb weight, and this ranges from 865 kg for the baseline Standard G 1.0 manual to 930 kg for the Advance 1.3 auto. As for boot space, the Bezza has 508 litres, nearly double that of the Axia’s 260 litres (+248 litres); it’s also 95 litres more than that available on the Proton Saga (413 litres).

  All variants are equipped with dual-airbags, ABS and Isofix child seat mounts. Keyless entry with a push start button is a first for the brand, and is available on the Premium X and Advance versions, which also come with a USB port (5V/2A) for rear passengers (located at the tail end of the centre console).

  

  

  

  The Advance also has Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) as well as Hill Start Assist, which holds the car for two seconds on an incline after you lift your foot off the brake pedal.

  The Bezza also features 60:40 split folding rear seats, which is not a given feature for sedans. As for in-car entertainment, the Advance has a touchscreen double-DIN head unit with Mirror Link, while the Premium and Standard G make do with a more conventional audio system, with Bluetooth connectivity available on the Premium.

  We’ll have more details on the Perodua Bezza very soon. For now, read our first drive impressions of the Bezza, which covers the car in greater scope.

   

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• DRIVEN: New Perodua Bezza 1.0L and 1.3L Dual VVT-i – P2’s first-ever sedan is a game changer

  In Car Reviews, Cars, Perodua / By Danny Tan / 14 July 2016 9:57 am / 479 comments

  

  The term “game changer” has been thrown around rather liberally these days, although more often than not, the cars carrying the label have failed to shake up the segment.

  UPDATE: The Perodua Bezza has now been officially launched, with official prices ranging from RM37k to RM51k. ASEAN NCAP has also officially released the crash test results. As reported earlier, it’s five stars for the VSC-equipped 1.3L Advance and four stars for the other four variants.

  The Kia Optima K5 facelift was branded as such in Malaysia, and we’ve seen the phrase repeated in the local review blitz of the Volkswagen Vento. While certain elements are standout – the design of the K5 and the sophisticated drivetrain of the Polo Sedan facelift, for instance – the segment leaders have been untroubled. While the tenth-generation Civic has revitalised the fading C-segment, it’s a relatively small game in the tournament.

  Here’s something that I feel is a true game changer, a car that will not just sell in huge numbers, but alter the status quo in Malaysian budget motoring. It gets no bigger than this – Malaysia’s market leader for the past decade has been quietly planning a sedan, and it is now here. Ladies and gentlemen, the Perodua Bezza.

  Read The Full Story ›

   

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• New Perodua Sedan mentioned in stock research reports – second half, August 2016 launch

  In Cars, Local News, Perodua / By Danny Tan / 24 May 2016 6:04 pm / 93 comments

  

  We’ve seen and heard plenty of Proton’s upcoming A- and B-segment sedans, the new Saga and new Persona. But what about the sedan that will go head-to-head with the Protons, the sedan that market leader Perodua is planning?

  It’s typical of the Rawang-based carmaker to keep plans under wraps until the final moments, when things are already finalised; and company bosses are very guarded when quizzed by journalists, with the usual smile, non-committal answer and “tunggulah” by president and CEO Datuk Aminar Rashid Salleh. The same questions have been met with the same answers at P2 press conferences for years now. It’s a big contrast from how things are done over at Proton.

  As the Malay saying goes, diam-diam ubi berisi, and this piece of ubi should be pretty heavy. Till now, no timeline has been officially offered with regards to the sedan’s market launch, but now, mentions of the “Perodua Sedan” have appeared in stock research reports.

  Maybank Investment Bank’s research report on major Perodua stakeholder MBM Resources Bhd (MBMR) predicts a “tale of two halves” for the stock, where the second half of 2016 will be boosted by the launch of Perodua’s first sedan. Besides having a direct stake in P2, MBMR distributes Perodua cars via DMM Sales, and is also a major shareholder in P2 vendors Autoliv Hirotako and wheel-maker Oriental Metal Industries.

  

  

  The same research house also mentioned the Perodua sedan in a note on leather upholstery supplier Pecca Group Bhd, which appeared in The Edge Financial Daily. The key catalyst for Pecca’s financial year 2017 growth would be contribution from the Perodua sedan, Maybank Investment Bank said.

  “We expect this model to be priced from RM32,000 to RM40,000 range to compete with Proton Saga, which accounted for about 40,000 to 45,000 units in market size in 2015. In our projection for MBMR, we expect Perodua to sell 15,000 units of the sedan model in 2016, beginning August — conservative in our view — and 30,000 units in 2017,” it added.

  So, the second half of 2016 and more specifically, August 2016, would be when Perodua’s first sedan surfaces, according to the analysts. This would throw it in the same arena, at the same time, as Proton’s new Saga and new Persona sedans, if the latter’s plans aren’t beset by the usual delays.

  What we know for sure is that the design of the sedan will be led by Perodua, as it’s not based on any current Daihatsu model. The in-house upper body design will sit on a proven Daihatsu platform, while engines will be from the Japanese company’s stable (Daihatsu now a wholly-owned subsidiary of Toyota, share exchange will be completed in August).

  

  

  Proton is readying not one, but two compact sedans for 2H 2016; from L-R: new Saga, new Persona

  “Based on our more than 20 years of partnership, Daihatsu has allowed Perodua to be more involved in the design and development of our vehicles. In this process there has been transfer of technical and engineering knowledge as well as transfer of technologies,” Aminar told paultan.org at last year’s Tokyo Motor Show.

  “We would like to leverage on Daihatsu’s more than 100 years of experience in the automotive industry to remain relevant and competitive,” he added, affirming the relationship between Perodua and its Japanese partner. Daihatsu has a 20% stake in Perodua and more significant shareholding in the manufacturing side of P2’s business.

  Perodua having a growing design role in local models is nothing new, and is a continuation of the trend from the Myvi and Axia. It is something that Daihatsu encourages, too. “Having the car’s upper body designed by Perodua will create a better product that suits the Malaysian market,” Daihatsu Motor Company’s senior managing executive officer Shigeharu Toda told us at the same TMS 2015 function.

  It will be an interesting second half for the industry and Malaysian car buying public, that’s for sure. May the best local sedan win.

  GALLERY: Perodua Buddyz Concept from KLIMS 13
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• Perodua sedan rendered based on new Toyota Passo

  In Cars, Local News, Perodua / By Gerard Lye / 13 April 2016 12:42 pm / 42 comments

  

  How about this for a Perodua B-segment sedan? This “interesting” creation by skilled renderer Theophilus Chin hints at a very unlikely third-gen Myvi sedan, and will no doubt get the masses talking.

  Based on the all-new Toyota Passo (pictured below) that was unveiled recently, the “sedan” sees the standard compact hatchback undergo a physical transformation, where its boxy rear is reshaped to feature a steeply-raked rear window, promoting the overhang that gives it the sedan look.

  A side-by-side comparison provides a clearer look at what Theo has done here. If only Toyota released the new Passo several days earlier, this would have made for a great April Fool’s joke.

  

  The Toyota Passo is powered by a 1.0 litre 1KR-FE three-cylinder petrol engine, providing 69 PS at 6,000 rpm and 92 Nm at 4,400 rpm, mated to a CVT with front- and all-wheel drive available. Aside from its new exterior looks, the Passo also gets a revamped interior and updated safety kit featuring Daihatsu’s Smart Assist II collision avoidance assist system.

  These specifications are nigh identical to the new Daihatsu Boon. Perodua enthusiasts will be quick to point out that the current Myvi is based on the second-gen Boon.

  With both B-segment superminis now completely redesigned inside and out, could the third-generation Myvi be based on the new Boon/Passo, adopting its technological (and visual) upgrades?

  GALLERY: 2016 Toyota Passo
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• Perodua to design upper body of upcoming sedan model, engine and platform from Daihatsu

  In Cars, Local News, Perodua / By Danny Tan / 16 November 2015 10:03 am / 30 comments

  

  Perodua will be taking the lead in designing the upper body for its upcoming sedan model. Not directly based on a current Daihatsu model, the booted car will be a first for the Rawang-based carmaker, which has been into hatchbacks since the Kancil. Logically, mechanicals such as the platform and engine will be from Daihatsu.

  The topic was brought up at the recent 2015 Tokyo Motor Show, where Perodua president and CEO Datuk Aminar Rashid Salleh joined the media for a dinner hosted by Daihatsu Motor Company’s senior managing executive officer, Shigeharu Toda.

  “Based on our more than 20 years of partnership, Daihatsu has allowed Perodua to be more involved in the design and development of our vehicles. In this process there has been transfer of technical and engineering knowledge as well as transfer of technologies,” Aminar said.

  

  

  Click to enlarge

  “We would like to leverage on Daihatsu’s more than 100 years of experience in the automotive industry to remain relevant and competitive.” he added, affirming the relationship between Perodua and partner Daihatsu. DMC has a 20% stake in Perodua and more significant shareholding in the manufacturing side of P2’s business.

  Perodua having a growing design role for local models is nothing new, and is a continuation of the trend from the Myvi and Axia. It is something that DMC encourages, too. “Having the car’s upper body designed by Perodua will create a better product that suits the Malaysian market,” Toda said.

  No word on when the sedan will eventually surface, though. In July, Aminar said that the sedan’s development could take as much as 36 to 48 months, as there is a lot of local R&D input. “It’s not going to come that soon, that’s all that I will say. It will come, yes, and we think that it’s going to be a good product,” he said then.

  GALLERY: Perodua Buddyz Concept from KLIMS 13
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• Perodua D63D sedan: “36-48 months to develop; not coming so soon, but it’ll be a good product” – Aminar

  In Cars, Local News, Malaysian Makes, Perodua / By Jonathan Lee / 24 July 2015 7:33 pm / 82 comments

  

  At Perodua’s Raya open house today, CEO Datuk Aminar Rashid continued to let slip tiny tidbits regarding the new, highly-awaited Perodua sedan. Unfortunately there was still no information forthcoming about the car itself, as the company’s current focus is on what is expected to be a tough second half this year.

  Aminar told the media present that the platform and engines for the new car have yet to be decided, so any technical information would have to wait. He did, however, confirm a couple of weeks ago that Perodua will be building new 1.3 and 1.5 litre mills from Toyota’s NR engine family, which could be destined for the upcoming model.

  Instead, Aminar focused on the development of the car, saying that the sedan could take as much as 36 to 48 months to develop, as there is a lot of local input in terms of R&D. “It’s not going to come that soon, that’s all that I will say,” he said. “It will come, yes, and we think that it’s going to be a good product.”

  

  As for other models, Aminar hinted that there will be some updates coming as early as this year, even as the company has only recently unveiled the Axia and facelifted Myvi in quick succession. “For us, [our product lifecycle] is five to seven years. So in between, how do you to excite the market?

  “I can confirm, there’s going to be something this year,” he said. “What we can say is that from next month until the end of the year, there is going to be something exciting from us.”

  Additionally, Aminar said that Perodua was looking to expand on its general service business, as it plans to claw back lost customers. “Based on the analysis that we have done, we seem to lose our customers immediately after the expiry of the warranty period,” he said. “Currently [we are only retaining] around 29-30%. This is something we are working on – we are putting an aggressive figure next year of 35%.”

   

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• Perodua D63D sedan rendered based on Buddyz

  In Cars, Local News, Malaysian Makes, Perodua / By Jonathan James Tan / 8 June 2015 10:05 am / 93 comments

  

  In case you’ve missed it, it’s a go – the Perodua sedan, codenamed D63D, has officially been given the green light, as recently revealed by president and CEO Datuk Aminar Rashid. Now in the prototype stage, Perodua is evaluating the engine, platform and gearbox for the project it’s sort of taking the lead on, since no sedan currently exists in the Daihatsu universe.

  The finished product could surface anytime between 2016 and 2018, and will have an upper body designed completely in-house by Perodua. The carmaker is also targeting a five-star NCAP safety rating here – does this mean the sedan will be the first Perodua ever to get electronic stability control (ESC)?

  

  Theophilus Chin has rendered yet another Perodua sedan – his second sedan based on KLIMS13’s Buddyz concept. But while his first Buddyz effort involved very minor tweaks (the car still looked like a concept), this one packs sensible wing mirrors, projector headlamps connected to a slim grille, vertical LED DRLs/fog lamps, a bee-sting antenna, a rear diffuser-like element and a rather generic-looking rump.

  Of course, several Buddyz cues remain, such as the tall, angular roofline and the GT-R-like front haunches (I am so sorry, Godzilla fans). The rendering maestro also famously created the Jaguh brochure hoax in 2013, which involved reskinning a Toyota Etios. He has also rendered an A-segment Perodua sedan and one based on the Myvi facelift.

  Perodua Buddyz concept at KLIMS13
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• Perodua D63D sedan approved, out as soon as 2016

  In Cars, Local News, Malaysian Makes, Perodua / By Jonathan James Tan / 21 May 2015 10:29 am / 124 comments

  
  

  Perodua sedan imagined by Theophilus Chin based on Myvi facelift

  Perodua president and CEO Datuk Aminar Rashid has revealed some details regarding the upcoming Perodua sedan – which we now know to be codenamed D63D – at the ongoing Myvi 10th Anniversary drive event. For the record, the codenames are D54T for the Myvi, D46T for the Alza and D87A for the Axia.

  The sedan has been approved and is now in the prototype stage. Perodua is already evaluating the engine, platform and transmission. The platform employed should be an existing Toyota/Daihatsu platform, although there’s no indication yet on which one it could be.

  No such car (sedan) exists in the current Daihatsu universe, so Perodua will sort of be taking the lead on this project. The upper body, for instance, will be completely designed in-house by Perodua.

  

  

  Aminar also revealed that Perodua is targeting a five-star NCAP safety rating with the sedan – it was not mentioned, but the NCAP is likely to be ASEAN NCAP. If so, this means electronic stability control is planned for the new Perodua D63D sedan, since ESC is a must-have for a five-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating. If it gets it, the new sedan will be the first Perodua ever to offer ESC.

  “(Translated) Not this year. Next year maybe, or even the year after that. But not 2019 or 2020,” was Aminar’s reply on when the new sedan will debut.

  Talk of P2 considering a sedan has been buzzing about for quite some time. There was KLIMS10’s Bezza concept and KLIMS13’s Buddyz concept, the latter of which Theo tweaked a bit. The rendering maestro also famously created the Jaguh brochure hoax in 2013, which involved reskinning a Toyota Etios. He has also rendered an A-segment Perodua sedan.

  GALLERY: Perodua Bezza at KLIMS 2010
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  
  GALLERY: Perodua Buddyz at KLIMS 2013
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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