Top five MUVs under RM 100,000

After a stressful weekday of office work and house chores, we all deserve an outstation trip. But such long trips are only worth if you and your family are seated comfortably in a spacious car. With Malaysia having one of the highest car ownership rates in the world, you have no choice but to crawl until you’ve reached your destination. But there is always a way to make the journey slightly bearable. Investing in a spacious car is one of the options which offers everything while you are on the road, from safety to comfort. So, here are the top five MUVs under RM 100,000 that are worth a look, especially if you and your familyl ove to go on a long weekend trips:

Perodua Alza

The Perodua Alza is not only a functional family wagon, it is a three-row seven-seater that comes in five variants. The design of the Alza is based on the Toyota Passo Sette. But don't let that that made-in-Malaysia badge underestimate its value. This compact MUV rivals the biggies like Nissan Grand Livina or Toyota Avanza. The Alza has space between seats suitable for tall passengers and the adjustable rear seat slope delivers even more space.

Other features on the standard Alza kit include multi-information display, LED rear lamps, split folding rear seats, reverse sensors, and a four-speaker audio system. On the top end variant you get a multimedia system with navigation, roof-mounted monitors, Bluetooth, USB as well as a leather-wrapped interior. As for the engine, you get a 1.5-litre DVVT DOHC unit with max power of 104 hp at 6,000 rpm and 136 Nm of torque at 4,400 rpm. It gives a fuel efficiency of 8 kmpl. You can choose between a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission. The price range starts from RM 50,550.

Proton Ertiga

The Proton Ertiga is a people-hauler that is built on the extended version of the Suzuki Swift platform. It is a compact MPV that is even smaller than the Exora. Safety wise it has dual frontal airbags, ABS, EBD, and ISOFIX mounts as standard. The adjustable rear seats give decent space and comfort. It has a good legroom on all three rows as well as decent cargo space.

The Ertiga is powered by the K14B engine that produces 91 hp at 6,000 rpm and 130 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. You get a five-speed manual and a four-speed auto transmission. Fuel consumption for both the manual and auto comes to about 7 kmpl. There are three variants to choose from and it is a direct competitor to Toyota Avanza or Perodua Alza. The standard version starts at RM 56,984 while the range-topper is RM82,560.

Proton Exora

Proton Exora is a seven-seater MUV in the affordable bracket. Size wise it is similar to the Mazda 5, but it has a cheaper price tag and engine. The standard Exora is equipped with smoked rear combination lights, side skirting, and a reverse camera with sensors. The range-topping variants get DRL’s, multi-functional steering wheel, rear fog lamps, cruise control and a Bluetooth supported audio system.

There are two 1.6-litre four-cylinder engines on offer. First unit that powers the entry-level Executive Manual and Auto is a naturally aspirated one. Max power is 125 hp at 6,500 rpm with 150 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm. You can get this engine with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission one. Rest of the three other variants are powered by a turbocharged CFE engine that produces 138 hp and 205 Nm of torque. This engine is only available with a CVT only. The Exora is offered in five variants with prices starting from RM 56,940 and all the way up to RM 82,560 for Super Premium CVT.

Honda BR-V

The first full-size seven seater for the Malaysian market, by Honda is the BR-V. This car shares the same platform used in the Honda Brio hatch and Amaze sedan for Thai/Indonesian market. The car has comfortable front, second and third row seats with top of the class legroom, but average shoulder space. The rear seats are foldable for extra boot space.

The BR-V is powered by the 1.5 litre i-VTEC engine, which is also shared by Honda Jazz and City models. Power is at 120 hp with torque at 145 Nm, and is mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). It has two variants with the standard at RM 85,800 and the range-topping at RM 92,800.

Toyota Sienta

Those looking for an affordable and reliable seven-seater, look no further as Toyota’s latest MPV, Sienta is the answer. Features on the standard model include rear fog lights, LED daytime running lights, monochrome trip computer, and rear air-con vents. The range topping variant also includes auto climate control, smart keyless entry, leather-wrapped steering with audio controls and an infotainment console.

Powering the Sienta is a transverse 1.5-litre NR-series engine with Dual VVT-i. It is the same unit used on Avanza. The power measures at 107 PS and 140 Nm. There are two variants, with the standard one priced at RM 92,900 and the top of the line being at RM 99,900.

When planning to buy a comfortable MUV, you have to keep in mind that the car has to fit your purpose. If you are into long distance travel, then the one that has sufficient legroom, headroom and shoulder space will be comfortable. The car that offers decent legroom between all three rows and a slim boot would be best for those quick getaways nearby. While buying a car you should not only look at the fuel efficiency or the cost. You have to look at all the factors as it is a long-term financial commitment with fuel costs, taxes and maintenance cost. While the Perodua Alza is cheapest in terms of cost, the Honda BR-V is best in terms of fuel economy. Ultimately, to buy your perfect MUV, it comes down to what you need from that car and how are you going to use it.