KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 1 — Perodua has started accepting bookings for the all-new Axia 2023 which is their entry-level compact vehicle. The new model is code-named D74A and it’s based on the Daihatsu New Global Architecture (DNGA), which is the same platform used by the new Alza and Ativa.
The new compact five-door hatchback has gotten a couple of notable upgrades and here’s the list of new features on the new Axia 2023 model that you should know.
D-CVT transmission provides up to 27 per cent more mileage per litre of fuel
The Perodua Axia 2023 appears to retain the same 1KR-VE 3-cylinder naturally aspirated engine as its predecessor which produces 50kW (67hp) of power and 91Nm of torque. However, the Perodua has ditched the old 4-speed auto transmission for a Dual-Mode CVT (D-CVT) which is currently used on the new MyVi and Ativa. As shown in the teaser photo above, there’s also a power button on the steering wheel like the newer Perodua models. Like the latest Myvi, Perodua has also ditched the manual option for the new Axia.
With this new D-CVT pairing, the Perodua Axia 2023 boasts an improved fuel economy with up to 27.4km per litre with its “Eco Idle” start-stop feature. Assuming Perodua retains the same 33-litre petrol tank, that’s almost 800km of mileage on a full tank.
The fuel-saving start-stop feature is only offered for the higher Axia SE and AV variants, while the lower Axia G and X variants are listed with a fuel economy of 25.3km per litre, which is still impressive.
As a comparison, the previous Axia with a 4-speed auto has a rated fuel economy of up to 21.6km per litre, while the 5-speed manual transmission model has a rated 22.5km per litre. Comparing the fuel consumption for both auto variants, the new Axia 2023 boasts up to 27 per cent more mileage per litre.
Improved safety with six airbags and Perodua Smart Driver Assist
In the safety department, the Perodua Axia 2023 now comes with up to 6 airbags, presumably for the top-spec AV variant. This is a huge upgrade from the previous dual SRS airbags that are equipped as standard for the entire range in the previous generation.
Besides the usual Antilock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA), Perodua is also including Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRC) and Hill-Start Assist (HSA) across the range including the G variant for the Axia 2023.
The booking teaser image also shows Perodua Smart Drive Assist (PSDA) which is likely to provide additional driver assist features such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring, in addition to autonomous emergency braking. However, the PSDA features would be offered only on the highest AV variant. We’ll have to wait and see until Perodua reveals the full spec sheet closer to launch.
Digital Multi-info Display with 9″ Infotainment system
On the inside, the Axia is carrying a couple of new modern features from its bigger siblings. The new Axia 2023 AV variant will be offered with a 7″ TFT Multi info display and a 9″ touch-screen head unit. The interface of the TFT multi-info display looks similar to the new Ativa and Alza.
However, the lower G, X and SE variants will come with a standard audio player with an LCD-based multi-info display unit. Interestingly, the Axia 2023 SE will get a different LCD-based display that comes with a tachometer.
LED headlamps and Daytime running lights
Keeping up with the times, Perodua is offering LED headlamps and daytime running lights on the new Axia. However, this LED option is only offered on the X variant and above, while the base G version still gets halogen headlamps. The LED daytime running lights are only offered on the SE and AV version.
Touch-based Keyless entry
Another nice addition is Keyless entry for the Axia 2023 and it uses a touch-based sensor rather than a physical button on the door handle. This feature is likely offered only on the higher-spec variants of the new Axia.
The new Axia 2023 also get electric side mirrors with LED turn signals that are auto retractable for the top two variants, while the lower two models get standard electric side mirrors that are manual retractable. For the rear seats, the higher two variants also get semi-bucket type front seats while the rear sets get separate headrests. The lower two variants get standard front seats while rear occupants get a “pillow” headrest.
Higher pricing close to RM50,000 for top-spec Axia 2023
According to Paul Tan, the Perodua new Axia 2023 is expected to be priced from RM38,600 for the base G variant and RM40,000 for the X variant. Meanwhile, the higher SE and AV variants are estimated to be priced at RM44,000 and RM49,500 respectively. That’s a huge jump considering the previous Axia 2019 was priced from RM24,090 for the base E variant with a manual transmission while the Axia G auto was priced at RM33,490. Even the highest spec Perodua Axia AV was going for RM43,190 back in 2019.
The new Axia will be offered in 5 colours which include Granite Grey, Lava Red, Glittering Silver, Ivory White (Solid) and a new Coral Blue.
For the estimated price of the Perodua Axia 2023 AV, you could get the more powerful Myvi 1.5L X which was launched for RM49,900. If you’re going for a mid-spec Myvi, you do lose out on a couple of things like fewer airbags and potentially less advanced driver safety assistance features.
What do you think of the new Perodua Axia 2023? Is this a better buy than the Proton Saga for someone who’s looking for their first car? Let us know in the comments below. The official launch is expected to take place in the coming weeks. — SoyaCinca
