The 2018 Perodua Alza SE 1.5 Auto is a refreshed version of Perodua’s popular compact MPV, offering a balance of practicality, efficiency, and modern features. This particular variant comes with the added convenience of an automatic transmission and is positioned as a higher trim level (SE) with more equipment compared to the base models.
Key Specifications
Engine & Performance
•Engine: 1.5L DOHC 16-valve Inline-4 (K3-VE)
•Power: Approximately 102 hp (76 kW) at 6,000 rpm
•Torque: 136 Nm at 4,400 rpm
•Transmission: 4-speed automatic (A/T)
•Drive Type: Front-wheel drive (FWD)
•Fuel Economy: Around 6.5 – 7.5 L/100 km (varies with driving style and conditions)
•0-100 km/h: Estimated 12.5 – 13.5 seconds
Dimensions & Capacity
•Length: 4,145 mm
•Width: 1,695 mm
•Height: 1,620 mm
•Wheelbase: 2,750 mm
•Ground Clearance: 160 mm
•Seating Capacity: 7 seats (3-row configuration)
•Cargo Capacity: 130 liters (with all seats up), expandable by folding rear seats
Interior Features
•Seating: Fabric upholstery (with more premium materials for the SE trim)
•Infotainment: 6.7-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, USB, and MP3/CD player.
•Air Conditioning: Automatic climate control (for added comfort)
•Steering Wheel: Leather-wrapped with audio and phone controls
•Storage: Multiple compartments for small items, including cup holders and door pockets.
Exterior Features
•Front: Chrome grille, projector headlights with LED DRLs (daytime running lights)
•Wheels: 15-inch alloy wheels (SE trim)
•Rear: Rear spoiler and LED taillights
•Fog Lights: Standard for better visibility in poor conditions
Safety Features
•Airbags: Dual front airbags, side airbags
•Brakes: Disc brakes in the front, drum brakes in the rear with ABS, EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
•Vehicle Stability Control (VSC): Helps maintain stability during skidding
•Hill Start Assist: Prevents rollback on inclines
•Parking Sensors: Standard in the SE trim for added convenience when parking
•Rearview Camera: Available for better rear visibility during parking
Ride & Handling
•Suspension: Front MacPherson strut, rear torsion beam (offers a comfortable yet stable ride)
•The Perodua Alza SE 1.5 Auto is known for its responsive and nimble handling, making it a good option for city driving, but it remains comfortable on highways as well. The suspension setup provides a decent balance between comfort and stability.
Fuel Economy & Performance
•The 1.5L engine offers a reasonable level of performance for city and highway driving, and the automatic transmission ensures smooth shifts. Fuel economy is competitive for an MPV, making the Alza an affordable choice for daily commuting and family trips.
Overall Impression
The 2018 Perodua Alza SE 1.5 Auto strikes a solid balance between affordability, practicality, and modern features. As a compact MPV, it is ideal for those seeking a family car with enough space for 7 passengers while offering relatively low maintenance costs and good fuel economy. The SE trim, in particular, adds some premium touches that enhance the driving experience.
Pros:
•Fuel-efficient for its class.
•Comfortable and spacious interior, especially for families.
•Good list of standard features like automatic air conditioning, touchscreen, and parking sensors.
•Affordable maintenance and running costs.
Cons:
•Some rivals offer more powerful engines or better ride quality.
•The 4-speed automatic transmission may feel dated compared to more modern 6-speed or CVT units.
•Rear-seat comfort may not be ideal for taller passengers on long trips.
Overall, the 2018 Alza SE 1.5 Auto is a strong contender in the compact MPV market, especially for buyers prioritizing practicality and value for money.