Perodua Aruz Launched - From RM72,900

After numerous teases, even concealed within a large box with peepholes, Perodua’s latest SUV model, the Aruz, has been formally been introduced. Perodua’s third SUV model, after the Kembara and the short-lived Nautica, is a localized version of Indonesia's Daihatsu Terios, and is closely related to the Toyota Rush, which is assembled at Perodua's plant in Rawang alongside the Aruz. It's also closely related to the Indonesia-made Toyota Avanza, sharing the same powertrain.

The seven-seater SUV comes in two variants, priced at:

• Aruz 1.5X: RM72,900
• Aruz 1.5AV: RM77,900

All prices are On-The-Road, without insurance.

The Aruz is powered by the 2NR-VE Dual VVT-i 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder which is also found on the Toyota Rush (and Avanza too). Despite using the same engine as the Rush, the Aruz makes 3 PS and 3 Nm less than the Rush - 102 PS at 6,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 133 Nm at 4,200 rpm. The engine is paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission which distributes power to the rear wheels.

Like the Toyota Rush, claimed fuel efficiency of the Aruz is 15.6 km per litre, or 6.4 litres/100 km, aided in part by standard fitment of an Automatic Stop-Start function. Thus, the Aruz qualifies for Energy Efficient Vehicle (EEV) status under the current Malaysian National Automotive Policy.

All variants are offered with six airbags, reverse camera, and LED headlights as standard. The AV variant adds Perodua’s Active Safety Assist 2.0 autonomous emergency braking feature, which has now been upgraded to include Pedestrian Detection (only at speeds up to 50 km/h). It also adds Pre-Collision Warning at up to 100 km/h, and Pre-Collision Braking at up to 80 km/h. Other functions include Front Departure Alert with Pedal Misoperation Control. 

Standard equipment of the Aruz 1.5X include:

• 6 airbags
• Electronic stability control
• 6-speaker touchscreen infotainment
• Steering wheel control buttons for audio
• LED headlamps with Follow-Me-Home function
• 17-inch alloy wheels
• Auto air-cond
• Reverse Camera
• Fabric seats
• Rear air-cond vents
• Adjustable steering with audio controls
• Smart Entry with Start/Stop function
• Smart Tag toll reader
• Reverse camera
• Security window tint

The Aruz 1.5AV adds the following features:

• Perodua ASA 2.0
• Infotainment with Smart Link (Android only) and HDMI support
• Auto headlamps
• Fog lamps
• Painted lower front and rear bumper protectors
• Roof rails
• Leather seats
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel
• Silver-painted interior trim pieces
• Steering wheel buttons for Bluetooth telephone (Receive call only)
• Integrated DVR

Given its generous safety kit, the Aruz has been awarded a 5-Star ASEAN NCAP rating.

The Aruz is available in one solid colour, and four metallic colours: Ivory White (Solid), Amazon Green, Granite Grey, Electric Blue, and Glittering Silver. For added peace of mind, the Aruz comes with a 5-year 150,000 km warranty, whichever comes first.

An optional accessories package under the Gear Up label adds a set of door visors, carpet mats, and luggage tray can be had for RM450.

Additionally, all customer who purchase Perodua Total Protect Plus motor insurance will enjoy free Perodua Auto Assist, free unlimited 'unnamed' driver coverage, flood allowance up to RM1,000, and Personal Accident coverage up to RM10,000.