2019 Persona base vs. Bezza top variant: Which one should you buy?

The 2019 Proton Persona is essentially a sedan version of the new and popular Iriz hatchback. Similarly, the Perodua Bezza shares much of its underpinnings with the smaller Axia hatchback. Now obviously, the Persona is a bigger car compared to the Bezza and as such, priced accordingly. However, it’s essential and crucial to note that the price gap between the base variant of the Persona and the top variant of the Bezza isn’t that significant.

In our market, both of these sedans do quite well for their respective manufacturers. But as a prospective buyer, which one should you pick? Also, to keep things fair, we will be pitting the automatic variant of the Proton Persona base trim and the Perodua Bezza top model.

Looks and styling

As you approach the two, the size difference between the Proton Persona and Perodua Bezza becomes apparent. The new Persona measures in at 4,362 mm X 1,722 mm X 1,554 mm in length, width, and height, respectively. In comparison, the new Bezza measures 4,150 mm X 1,620 mm X 1,510 mm in length, width, and height, respectively. This means the Proton is longer, wider, and taller than the more compact Perodua. The Persona also has the Bezza beat when it comes to wheelbase – 2,555 mm vs. 2,455 mm. Interestingly, there isn’t much difference when it comes to the total trunk space of these two cars; the Persona is ever so slightly larger at 510 litres (over the Bezza’s 508 litres).

When it comes down to the way these two sedans look, there’s little denying that the 2019 Proton Persona edges ahead with its sleeker, more contemporary, and relatively upmarket design. However, since this is the base Standard trim of the Persona that we’re talking about, it isn’t wearing the more expensive suit, unlike the top Premium trim. So, it loses out on the LED daytime running lights and black finish for the B-pillar. Despite that, you still get 15-inch alloy wheels (over the Bezza’s 14-inchers) and a rear spoiler, which the Bezza misses out on. But, the Bezza strikes back with front foglights, chrome door handles, and even some side skirts. However, if it’s a more streamlined design you’re after, then the Proton Persona wins.

Interior

 

Because of its larger dimensions, the interior of the 2019 Proton Persona is a touch roomier than the Perodua Bezza’s. There’s not only more legroom, headroom, and shoulder room in the Persona, but its cabin also feels airier between the two. Now, it’s not that the Perodua Bezza’s interior is despicable, but it’s simply a smaller space. The seats in both cars are relatively good, but the Persona offers slightly better support and cushioning.

However, if it’s more equipment and features that you value, the fully-loaded Perodua Bezza Advance trim comes with keyless-entry with push-button start, remote boot release, leather seats, leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel and gear lever, power-operated and retractable door mirrors, split-folding rear seats, plus a touch-sensitive multimedia head unit with navigation, Smart Link connectivity, and four speakers. And while the build quality of the Persona is slightly better, it isn’t good enough to offset the balance.

Engine and transmission

Neither of these two cars is particularly powerful or excitingly fast. However, the Proton Persona gets a bigger 1.6-litre engine compared to the Perodua Bezza’s smaller 1.4-litre unit. It makes 107 hp and 150 Nm of torque and pushes them through a CVT and to the front wheels. The Bezza, meanwhile, makes do with 94 hp and 121 Nm of torque and comes with an old-school 4-speed automatic transmission. However, it’s a lighter car and only weighs 930 kgs, whereas the Persona tips the scales at 1,174 kgs. This combined with the ‘Eco Idle’ technology and smaller engine results in the Perodua Bezza returning an impressive 21.3 kmpl. Therefore, if you don’t care much about performance and more about how often you hit the pumps, the Bezza sure makes more sense.

Safety features

On this front, both the cars are almost similar in the equipment that they offer. You get dual airbags, ABS with EBD and brake assist, electronic stability management, traction control, ISOFIX anchors, and front & rear parking sensors. The Bezza, however, also adds a reversing camera to this list, though it misses out on the Persona’s impact-sensing door unlock feature. Fortunately, both have been awarded a five-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating.

In conclusion

If Bezza's awkward exterior styling, dated cabin design, and slower performance aren’t enough to put you off, then the 2019 Perodua Bezza Advance is a good pick at RM 47,790. Other than that the 2019 Persona has everything a buyer would require.