For those buying their first cars in Malaysia – especially if one is absolutely clueless about which one to choose – it can be a scary and risky decision.
Nowadays, there are so many brands you can consider and so many factors that have to be thoroughly scrutinized. Or worse, all those hours, days, or weeks of research may leave you scratching your head instead of finalizing your decision!
Hence, we’ve compiled for you a short guide on the top 8 best first cars in Malaysia for first-time buyers – complete with the specs and info you absolutely need to know!
Note: All data compiled below comes from the car brands’ respective websites which will also be linked for your reference.
Top 8 Best First Cars in Malaysia
1. Perodua Axia
As the most affordable car on our list (the E variant begins at only RM24,090!), the Perodua Axia combines compactness, flexibility, efficiency, safety, and style in one car. This is also one of the few cars in Malaysia tailored to both families and young adults, making it especially perfect for fresh graduates and, of course, first-time car buyers!
Types:
| Types | Details |
|---|---|
| Available variants | 1.0L E 1.0L G 1.0L GXtra 1.0L Style 1.0L SE 1.0L AV |
| Available colors *Disclaimer: E variant is only available in Ivory White | Ivory White (solid) Glittering Silver Midnight Blue Lava Red (1.0L GXtra, 1.0L SE, 1.0L AV only) Sunrise Orange (1.0L Style only) |
| Price | 1.0L E: RM24,090 1.0L G: RM33,490 1.0L GXtra: RM 34,990 1.0L Style: RM38,890 1.0L SE: RM38,890 1.0L AV: RM43,190 |
Specs (based on the AV variant only):
| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Mechanical | 1 KR-VE engine with 4 E-AT transmission DOHC, 12V, Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with VVT-i 998 cc 21.6 Km/l fuel consumption 67 ps at 6,000 rpm 91 Nm at 4,400 rpm |
| Safety | Dual SRS airbags ABS with EBD Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRC) Anti-theft devices and anti-snatch hook Wireless door lock and alarm Solar and security window film |
| Exterior | Front and rear skirtings with glossy black lining Two-tone side skirtings Electric, retractable side mirrors with turn signals Laminated green windshield Front fog and rear reflector combination lamps Rear defogger and spoiler with LED brake light |
| Interior | White illuminated meter combination Semi-bucket type fabric seats with detachable headrest Multimedia system with ‘Smart Link’, USB, Bluetooth, and HDMI Smart entry and push start/stop button Electric Power Steering (EPS) |
For more information, visit the Perodua webpage.
2. Proton Saga
The 2022 Saga is nothing like those from the past – this new and improved version is highly recommended to first-time buyers for their first cars! While boasting affordability, this sporty sedan not only has immense style but comes with a wide range of crucial safety assists and intelligent, technological features that boost efficiency in one’s driving experience.
Types:
| Types | Details |
|---|---|
| Available variants | 1.3L Standard MT 1.3L Standard AT 1.3L Premium AT 1.3L Premium S AT |
| Available colors | Silver Jet Grey White (not available for 1.3L Premium S AT) Rosewood Maroon (not available for 1.3L Premium S AT) Ruby Red (1.3L Premium AT and 1.3L Premium S AT only) |
| Price | 1.3L Standard MT: RM34,800 1.3L Standard AT: RM38,800 1.3L Premium AT: RM41,800 1.3L Premium S AT: RM44,800 |
Specs (based on the Premium S AT variant only):
| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Mechanical | 40 liter fuel tank capacity 5-speed manual transmission 4 cylinders in-line, 16 value DOHC, VVT 1332 cc 95 ps at 5750 rpm 120 Nm at 4000 rpm |
| Safety | Dual SRS airbags ABS with EBD Electronic stability control (ESC) Traction Control (TRC) Hill Hold Assist (HHA) Front and rear corner sensors |
| Exterior | Halogen headlamps, LED daytime running lamps Electric door mirrors with auto fold and turn signal lamps Front and side skirtings Trunk spoiler, remote trunk release |
| Interior | Steering switches for audio & hands-free telephone LCD segmented multi-info display Eco drive assist Key-free entry, push start button, 12V power socket Semi leatherette with fabric seats Bench type rear seat fold |
For more information, visit the Proton webpage.
3. Perodua Myvi
Of course, we had to include the most well-known, ‘people’s choice’ cars! The Perodua Myvi has been one of the best-selling cars in Malaysia since its debut launch 13 years ago. Hence, if you – as a first-time car buyer – are looking to play your cards safe and opt for proven and guaranteed reliability, then this car is exactly the one for you.
Types:
| Types | Details |
|---|---|
| Available variants | 1.3L G (without PSDA) 1.3L G 1.5L X 1.5L H 1.5L AV |
| Available colors | Electric Blue Glittering Silver Ivory White (solid) Granite Grey (not available for 1.3 G) Lava Red (not available for 1.5L AV) Cranberry Red (1.5L AV only) |
| Price (without insurance) | 1.3L G (without PSDA): RM46,500 1.3L G: RM48,500 1.5L X: RM50,900 1.5L H: RM54,900 1.5L AV: RM59,900 |
Specs (based on the AV variant only):
| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Mechanical | EEV Engine with D-CVT transmission 2NR-VE, DOHC with DUAL VVT-I and Eco-Idle 1,496 cc 21.1 Km/l fuel consumption 102 ps at 6,000 rpm 137 Nm at 4,200 rpm |
| Safety | Lane Departure Warning and Prevention (LDW & LDP) Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) Pre-collision warning and braking Pedal misoperation control Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) Front and rear corner sensors |
| Exterior | Auto ON-OFF LED headlamps with Follow-me-home and Leaving home functions Side mirrors with LED turn signals – electric, retractable, & auto-folding Front & side skirting, two-tone rear bumper, and spoiler Laminated green with acoustic glass windshield |
| Interior | TFT-display meter combination Power mode drive Multimedia system with ‘Smart Link’ & HDMI Built-in toll reader Leather seats with red finishing 60:40 fold rear seats with detachable headrest |
For more information, visit the Perodua webpage.
4. Perodua Alza
Look familiar? You may have read about this car in our previous article here.
Just released on July 20 in Malaysia, this sporty MPV as first-time buyers’ first cars is literally one of the most versatile vehicles out there, just as advertised! While offering a number of useful safety features and spacious seating for up to seven passengers, we have to emphasize its fuel efficiency – only 22.0 Km/l, even comparable to the Axia!
Types:
| Types | Details |
|---|---|
| Available variants | 1.5L X 1.5L H 1.5L AV |
| Available colors | Elegant Black Glittering Silver Ivory White (solid) Vintage Brown (1.5L H and 1.5L AV only) Garnet Red (1.5L H and 1.5L AV only) |
| Price (without insurance, SST inclusive) | 1.5L X: RM62,500 1.5L H: RM68,000 1.5L AV: RM75,500 |
Specs (based on the AV variant only):
| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Mechanical | EEV Engine with D-CVT transmission 2NR-VE, 4 cylinders, DOHC EFI with DUAL VVT-I and Eco-Idle 1,496 cc 22.0 Km/l fuel consumption 105 ps at 6,000 rpm 138 Nm at 4,200 rpm |
| Safety | Lane Departure Warning and Prevention (LDW & LDP) Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) Pre-collision warning and braking Pedal misoperation control Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) Front and rear corner sensors |
| Exterior | Auto ON-OFF LED headlamps with Follow-me-home and Leaving home functions Side mirrors with LED turn signals – electric, retractable, & auto-folding LED front fog & back door tail lamps Front & side skirting, chrome backdoor garnish, and key-free entry |
| Interior | 2-tone, 7”, TFT-display instrument panel Drive Mode selection (Eco, Normal, Power) 2 x 12V power sockets & 3 USB ports 2-tone, semi-leather seats with detachable headrest 60:40 fold second-row seats 50:50 fold third-row seats |
For more information, visit the Perodua webpage.
5. Toyota Yaris
We move on to a couple of international brands available right in Malaysia, offering both affordable and quality-ensured cars; hence, enter the Toyota Yaris! While one of the major drawbacks is the CVT (sorry auto drivers), it’s made up for by its other convenient features: Toyota Safety Sense, 360-T Plus Technology, and an improved-quality interior.
Types:
| Types | Details |
|---|---|
| Available variants | 1.5L J 1.5L E 1.5L G |
| Available colors | Red Mica Metallic Platinum White Pearl Silver Metallic |
| Price (without insurance, SST inclusive) | 1.5L J: RM73,800 1.5L E: RM83,300 1.5L G: RM87,600 |
Specs (based on the G variant only):
| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Mechanical | CV Transmission (CVT) 7-speed sport sequential shiftmatic mode 2NR-FE, 4 cylinders 16-valve DOHC with dual VVT-i 1,496 cc 107 ps at 6,000 rpm 140 Nm at 4,200 rpm |
| Safety | 7 SRS airbags Lane Departure Alert (LDA) Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) Pre-collision system (PCS) Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRC) |
| Exterior | Manual LED headlamps with Follow-me-home function Side mirrors with LED turn signals – electric, retractable, & auto-folding LED front fog & LED rear fog combination lamps LED daytime running lights and acoustic windshield glass |
| Interior | Colored, 4.2”, multi-info-display instrument panel Drive Mode selection (Eco, Sport) Optitron meter panel 2 USB ports 60:40 fold black fabric seats 3-spoke leather steering wheel with tilt adjust |
For more information, visit the Toyota webpage.
6. Toyota Vios
Like its Yaris counterpart, the Toyota Vios has similar features such as 107 horsepower & 140 Nm torque for a speedy, smooth driving experience and the reduction of NVH (noise, vibration, harshness). However – take note first-time buyers – the Vios offers larger boot space and is a more versatile vehicle – from premium traveling sedan to quick A to B trip!
Types:
| Types | Details |
|---|---|
| Available variants | 1.5L J 1.5L E 1.5L G |
| Available colors | Orange Metallic Platinum White Pearl Nebula Blue Metallic Red Mica Metallic Silver Metallic |
| Price (without insurance, SST inclusive) | 1.5L J: RM77,600 1.5L E: RM85,600 1.5L G: RM90,400 |
Specs (based on the G variant only):
| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Mechanical | CV Transmission (CVT) 7-speed sport sequential shiftmatic mode 2NR-FE, 4 cylinders 16-valve DOHC with dual VVT-i 1,496 cc 107 ps at 6,000 rpm 140 Nm at 4,200 rpm |
| Safety | 7 SRS airbags Lane Departure Alert (LDA) Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) Pre-collision system (PCS) Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRC) |
| Exterior | Manual LED headlamps with Follow-me-home function Side mirrors with LED turn signals – electric, retractable, & auto-folding LED front fog & LED rear fog combination lamps LED daytime running lights and acoustic windshield glass |
| Interior | Colored, 4.2”, multi-info-display instrument panel Drive Mode selection (Eco, Sport) Optitron meter panel 2 USB ports 60:40 fold black perforated leather seats 3-spoke leather steering wheel with tilt adjust |
For more information, visit the Toyota webpage.
7. Honda City
While the Honda City Sedan may also seem identical to the Honda City Hatchback (which we’ll delve into below), like the Yaris and Vios, there are a few key differences. In the long run, this may seem the more appropriate option as it is larger yet lighter and accommodates families. All sedan models have rear air-conditioning which the Hatchback does not have.
Types:
| Types | Details |
|---|---|
| Available variants | Petrol: 1.5L S 1.5L E 1.5L V 1.5L V-SENSING e:HEV: 1.5L RS |
| Available colors | Passion Red Pearl Platinum White Pearl Modern Steel Metallic Lunar Silver Metallic (not available for 1.5L RS) Crystal Black Pearl (not available for 1.5L RS) |
| Price | 1.5L S: RM77,600 1.5L E: RM85,600 1.5L V: RM90,600 1.5L V-SEN: RM94,600 1.5L RS: RM108,800 |
Specs (based on the RS variant only):
| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Mechanical | 4 cylinders, 16 valve, DOHC i-VTEC e-CVT and PGM-FI electronic fuel injection 1,498 cc 3.6 l/100km fuel consumption 98 ps at 5,600-6,400 rpm 127 Nm at 4,500-5,000 rpm |
| Safety | SRS airbags (front, side, curtain) ABS with EBD & BA Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) & reverse sensors Security alarm with immobilizer Honda SENSING Honda CONNECT |
| Exterior | LED auto headlights LED front fog and daytime running lights Side mirrors with turning lights Rear combination lights Trunk spoiler with shark fin antenna Body color outer door handle |
| Interior | Remote engine start and smart entry with push start button 7” TFT-display meter combination Adjustable and retractable door mirrors Semi-leather seats Cruise control and ECON button Deceleration selector paddle, sport pedal pads |
For more information, visit the Honda webpage.
8. Honda City Hatchback
Continuing from above, the Hatchback is more suitable for first-time buyers’ first cars in Malaysia as it is actually smaller than the sedan. This also means that this car is easier to park and drive, especially around corners. While more expensive, this is due to a centrally-mounted fuel tank located under the seats instead of at the rear which frees up legroom in the interior.
Types:
| Types | Details |
|---|---|
| Available variants | Petrol: 1.5L S 1.5L E 1.5L V 1.5L V-SENSING e:HEV: 1.5L RS |
| Available colors | Ignite Red Metallic Platinum White Pearl Meteoroid Gray Metallic Lunar Silver Metallic (not available for 1.5L RS) Crystal Black Pearl (not available for 1.5L RS) |
| Price | 1.5L S: RM78,600 1.5L E: RM86,600 1.5L V: RM91,600 1.5L V-SEN: RM95,600 1.5L RS: RM109,800 |
Specs (based on the RS variant only):
| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Mechanical | 4 cylinders, 16 valve, DOHC i-VTEC e-CVT and PGM-FI electronic fuel injection 1,498 cc 3.6 l/100km fuel consumption 98 ps at 5,600-6,400 rpm 127 Nm at 4,500-5,000 rpm |
| Safety | SRS airbags (front, side, curtain) ABS with EBD & BA Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) & reverse sensors Security alarm with immobilizer Honda SENSING Honda CONNECT |
| Exterior | LED auto headlights LED front fog and daytime running lights Side mirrors with turning lights Rear combination lights Trunk spoiler with shark fin antenna Body color outer door handle |
| Interior | Remote engine start and smart entry with push start button 7” TFT-display meter combination Adjustable and retractable door mirrors Semi-leather seats Cruise control and ECON button Deceleration selector paddle, sport pedal pads |
For more information, visit the Honda webpage.
With that, we’ve come to the end of this helpful guide on the best first cars in Malaysia for first-time buyers! Do you now have an idea of what to get for your first car? Or vying for another option not on this list?
Let us know and you can check out our other articles on automotives in the meantime!
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