Perodua Axia - Pros & cons

Perodua launched its most affordable offering, Axia in 2014 and since then, the hatchback has been garnering huge volumes every month. Introduced as a replacement to the Viva city car, it is built on the same underpinnings as Toyota Agya.

The model is currently available in six variants including E, G, GCTRA, STYLE, SE and AV. With the recent update, it has improved over the pre-facelift version on several fronts, however, there hasn’t been much change to the pricing. 

The 2019 Perodua Axia price list is given below:

Variant	Price
Perodua Axia E MT (Solid and Metallic)	RM 24,090
Perodua Axia G AT (Solid and Metallic)	RM 33,490
Perodua Axia GXTRA AT (Solid and Metallic)	RM 34,990
Perodua Axia STYLE AT (Solid and Metallic)	RM 38,890
Perodua Axia SE AT (Solid and Metallic)	RM 38,890
Perodua Axia AV AT (Solid and Metallic)	RM 43,190

It receives subtle styling tweaks on the outside that set it apart from the preceding model. One of the prominent changes on the 2019 Perodua Axia is the addition of new safety tech, save for these, the five-door hatchback carries over most of the elements from the outgoing version. As for power, the entire line-up gets a single DOHC engine with a choice of manual and automatic transmission. 

Here is a look at 2019 Perodua Axia specs sheet:

Engine	1.0-litre, DOHC, 12V, VVT-i
Power	67 hp
Torque	91 Nm
Transmission	5-speed MT/4-speed AT
Mileage	22.5 kmpl

2019 Perodua Axia Pros

Affordable pricing

Pricing plays a pivotal role in determining a model while purchasing a car. It is indeed a major parameter most consider, especially by first-time buyers. The volume segment has several options, however,

the new Perodua Axia stands out for its utility quotient, all-round package in some of the variants and of course lucrative pricing. This gives Aixa a cusp over rivals in the volume segment and makes it a desirable option for those planning to upgrade from a two-wheeler to a passenger vehicle. (For complete variant break-up, please refer to the price table above). 

Rugged exterior elements 

As mentioned above, the 2019 Perodua Axia gets a mild makeover on the outside. It now comes with some new SUV-like elements such as the larger 15-inch alloy wheels that come wrapped in larger tyres. This has helped raise the ride height by a slight margin. With these new additions, the petite hatchback appears sportier than the predecessor. Speaking of Style variant, it gets a revised front,

highlighted by fake skid plates and a redesigned grille featuring garnishing that mimic carbon surfaces. The body cladding on the hatchback adds a sporty flair. Moving to the sides, there are chrome door handles, five-spoke alloy wheels, and black roof rails atop. As for the rear, it sports faux skid plate, reworked bumper, roof spoiler, and clear-lens tail-lamps. 

Touchscreen Infotainment system 

Another feature that makes Axia stand apart in the segment is the new touch-screen infotainment unit with in-built navigation, USB, HDMI, and Bluetooth connectivity. Also, it is supported by Perodua’s ‘Smart-Link’ smartphone mirroring technology. 

Interior equipment 

While mild styling tweaks can’t be ignored, another welcoming change inside is the addition of new equipment such as keyless entry with push-start button engine start button and an instrument cluster that comes with white backlighting. 

Advanced safety features 

Perodua has added the Advanced Safety Assist (ASA) 2.0 to the top-spec AV variant. The ASA 2.0 comprises a host of tech including Pedestrian Detection, Front Departure Alert, Pedal Misoperation Control, Pre-Collision Warning and Pre-Collision Braking.  Besides,

Vehicle Stability Control and Traction Control are available from GXTra onwards. While prominent bits, such as the Anti-Lock-Braking system, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, and ISOFIX mounts are available in lower variants, solar and security window films come with SE and AV variants only. 

Imposing mileage 

Powered by the 1.0-litre, DOHC unit, the small hatchback delivers a promising fuel-economy. The single manual variant in the line-up has a claimed mileage of 22.5kmpl, and the automatic version offers slightly less at 21.4 kmpl. Hence, the pocket-friendly hatchback has a low running cost too.

2019 Perodua Axia Cons 

Mundane styling 

Talking of overall styling, the entry-level hatchback has a plain-jane design that fails to leave a strong impression. However, Perodua has added new sporty elements to the Style variant that adds to its appeal, the rest of the variants make-do with the mundane styling. Besides, styling on the flanks and at the back seems a bit dated, which could be improved by adding some new elements. 

Dated interior design 

Akin to the exterior, styling on the inside also fails to leave a mark despite some premium features added for the occupants’ comfort. The cabin design and dashboard seem a bit old-fashioned. While a touchscreen unit sits on the console, it still lacks in visual appeal. 

Standard kit 

Touted as one of the most affordable cars in Malaysia, the Perodua Axia base variant is available at a meagre price point of RM 24,090. However, in a bid to curb pricing, Perodua has omitted several features from the standard kit. That said, the list of missing features comprises of front fog lamps, powered wing mirrors, rear wiper, rear defogger, etc. on the outside.

While the interior comes bereft of an audio unit, assist grip, stewing wheel audio controls, push start/stop button and height adjuster for the driver's seat have also been left out. Speaking of safety, dual SRS airbags and ISOFIX systems are standardized, though the anti-lock-braking system with electronic brakeforce distribution is missing in the E MT. 

As with most of the entry-level cars, this A-segment hatchback also misses out on certain features, however, the higher variants are well-equipped.

Also read: Perodua Axia 2019 - Top alternative