Perodua Aruz: More details on the 7-seater SUV

It was somewhere in early December that we talked about the prospective arrival of a Perodua SUV. Well, who would have known, because only after a few days Perodua released a teaser showing off its brand new seven-seater creation. Back then not much was known about this car, no name, no specs, no nothing. However, it was only recently that we catch hold of an abundance of information about this car. All thanks to a leaked leaflet that contained substantial info. Following which, Perodua came forward with an announcement of its new SUV’s booking. Coincidence or a strategy, who knows?

Well, what we are excited about is that the Malaysian market has two new SUV’s and that too from its inborn, trust-worthy automakers - Proton & Perodua. The arrival of the Proton X70 took the whole country by storm. Starting from its KLIMS 2018 showcasing, to its amazing online booking offer, followed by its much-awaited launch - it was no less than a festivity. As a matter of fact, the X70 booking figures are impressive, as the car has been receiving 200-300 registrations each day since its launch. However, now with the Aruz in the SUV frame too, it would be interesting to see how these number would change for the X70.

We’ll cover a full story on the X70 and Aruz, as too which one is better/their differences? However, as for now, it's time to study the Perodua Aruz specs and other details.

1. Perodua Aruz competition

Entering the 7-seater SUV market, the Aruz will rival against the likes of Toyota Rush, Honda BR-V, and Mitsubishi Xpander. The Proton X70 too makes for a good competition (though on a bit higher price point) and the fight would on an interesting one like style or utility.

2. Perodua Aruz price

At an estimated price of RM 72k to RM 77k, the Aruz will become one of the most affordable seven-seater SUVs in the market. This point may get the ball rolling in Aruz court, as a budget family car is always in demand.

3. Perodua Aruz eligible for petrol subsidy

Being tuned with a 1500cc engine, the Aruz is a petrol subsidy benefiting cars. According to Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng announcement, R0N95 petrol subsidies limited to 100-litres would be enjoyed by car owners. The new subsidy mechanism would most probably begin from second-quarter of 2019.

4. Flexible seating arrangments

Well, these are the exact words used by Perodua. Though nothing more is said, we believe that all the rows and seats individually can be folded to obtain the needed arrangement. So, the Aruz can go from being a seven to a two-seater SUV with massive trunk space.

5. Perodua Aruz safety rating

As per ASEAN NCAP, the Perodua Aruz has been granted a 5-star safety rating. Great, isn’t it! Well, though the details of the test are yet to reveal, we are pretty sure about its sturdy built, and elevated level of both active and passive safety features. In the list of safety features is included six-airbags, ABS with EBD and BA, Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent Control, Vehicle Stability Control, Seatbelt reminder (for all seats), Emergency Signal Stop, and Advance Safety Assist 2.0 with pedestrian detection. It sounds like the Aruz has come all prepared, and despite its economical price tag, it does not compromise on safety.

6. Aruz gets the Eco Idle tag

Like most Perodua cars, the all-new Aruz too gets the Eco Ideal tag, thus making it an eco-friendly vehicle. The credit for this goes to the 1.5-litre 2NR-VE Dual VVT-i mill that naturally-aspirated and has four-cylinder. The said petrol engine generates 105 PS of power at 6000 rpm and 136 Nm of torque at 4200 rpm. Further, included in the package is a 4-speed torque converter automatic transmission and an Eco Ideal engine start/stop button. According to Perodua, the Aruz can deliver fuel economy of 15.6 kmpl.

7. Base model with amazing features

It’s often seen that the base model misses on comforting and safety features courtesy to its low price tag. However, that’s not the case with the Aruz, as most of the features offered are standard. For starters, is the LED headlight with follow me home function, keyless entry, power folding door mirrors with electric adjustment, air-con system with memory function and digital display, 7-inch touchscreen system, push start/stop button, USB port in the first and second row, and more.

For details on Perodua Aurz specs, variants, colour and price, click here.