Perodua Aruz - Top alternatives

Perodua Aruz is the only 7-seater offering coming out from the production facility of the Malaysian car manufacturer. For a starting price of RM 72,900, it is also Perodua’s most expensive model present in the market today. Ever since it was first unveiled at the 2018 Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show, it became infamous for its similarities with Toyota Rush. Even after that, Aruz continued to build its own path and overtime became Malaysia’s best-selling crossover.

What are the key features of Perodua Aruz?

Ans. Following are the Perodua Aruz key features-

• 1.5-litre petrol engine
• 105 PS and 136 Nm
• 4-speed AT gearbox
• 15.6 km/l claimed fuel economy
• Spacious interior with seating for 7
• 7-in touchscreen display

So, if the Aruz is so brilliantly put together, does it really have any alternatives present?

Ans. Well, of course. We don’t deny Aruz’s popularity and capabilities but it isn’t perfect and has its own set of trivial flaws which are more than enough for its rivals to poke into. Following are Aruz’s top alternatives.

Alternative 1 - Toyota Rush

Surprise, surprise! We know that the Aruz and Rush are very similar to each other but we have to include the latter in our list because it has its own set of advantages. To begin with, the Rush has ‘Toyota’ attached to its name and that in itself brings in a lot of brand value which would prove beneficial in some or the other way. We don’t know whether if it’s just us, but we find the Rush to be sportier-looking than the Aruz. Maybe it’s the front grille, the front bumper or perhaps the 17-in alloy wheels that work their magic.

From the inside, things are quite familiar and space shouldn’t be a problem at all. However, we wouldn’t say the same for the quality of materials used; it’s not the best available out there. What we do like is the extensive Rush specs sheet-

• 6 airbags
• Pre-collision system
• Blind spot monitoring
• Rear cross traffic alert
• Panoramic view monitor
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Hill start assist control
• Vehicle stability control
• Traction control

It’s because of these features that the Rush boasts its 5-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating. Available in 2 variants, Toyota Rush price starts at RM 93,000.

Alternative 2 - Honda BR-V

Honda BR-V was introduced in Malaysia in early 2017 and it soon earned its place in the 7-seater crossover segment. Today, it is one of the key names of this category and so far has done Honda very proud. Just like the Aruz, the BR-V also has only two variants - 1.5L E and 1.5L V - that come at a price of RM 80,989 and RM 87,701, respectively. Both of them are powered by the same 1.5-litre petrol engine that churns out 118 bhp of max power and 145 Nm of peak torque. The engine comes mated to a CVT unit and there’s no option for a manual.

 

Unlike the Aruz and the Rush, Honda BR-V brings a fresh look to the table. It comes with a pair of large projector headlamps with LED DRLs, Honda’s signature chrome grille, stylish alloy wheels, rear combination lamps, roof rails, and the best-in-class ground clearance of 201mm. The interior of the BR-V feels better in terms of quality, fit, and finish. We have always liked the steering wheels Honda puts in its cars. The seats are quite comfortable and offer a good amount of support. We also get a 6.1-in infotainment screen, automatic AC with rear vents.

While everything looks great in the Honda BR-V specs sheet, the list of safety features is a bit underwhelming. The only features worth mentioning are-

• Dual front airbags
• Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)
• ABS with EBD
• Hill Start Assist (HSA)
• Reverse sensor with camera

And these weren’t enough to help BR-V earn a 5-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating.

Alternative 3 - Toyota Avanza

Toyota Avanza has been in the Malaysian market for quite some time now and it was in early 2019 when Toyota gave it a minor facelift which, somehow, changed people’s perception of it. In its new version, the 2019 Toyota Avanza looked like a modern car thanks to the unique two-part like front lighting. We also like the large blacked-out front bumper, stylish alloy wheels, sculpted door mirrors, and body-hugging side skirts.

The interior of the new Avanza also saw some rework. Features like a 6.75-inch touchscreen unit which supports Android Auto & Apple CarPlay, along with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, upgraded HVAC panel, and automatic climate control make the Avanza’s cabin a relatively pleasing place to be in. Toyota also added new safety features like Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), front-facing Digital Video Recorder (DVR), and also an Around View Monitor (AVM).

2019 Toyota Avanza specs tell it comes in 3 variants, 4 colours, 1 engine and transmission option. It has a starting price of RM 80,888.

These were the top alternatives of the Perodua Aruz. If you are looking to buy an affordable 7-seater, then these are the best options you should consider.

Also Read: Perodua Aruz becomes 10th most searched keyword on Google Malaysia