2015 Perodua Myvi Vs. Proton Iriz: Round 2, FIGHT!

Proton launched its Iriz last year and there was no doubt that its target was to topple the Perodua Myvi as the nation’s most-loved. In our previous spec comparison between the two, the Iriz came out on top with an impressive safety package available on all variants across the range.

This time, Perodua is back but not with a completely new model. Instead, the Myvi receives a facelift with updates mainly reflected in design changes to match its newer sibling, the Axia, plus other additional features. But is that enough to win this hotly contested battle?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-vu7rTQL8uY

The Myvi previously lost on the safety front due to its lack of the safety features as those found on the Iriz, which has them from the base variant all the way to the highest-spec one. So what has Perodua done to make its Myvi “Lagi Best” than before? Let’s jump right into it then.

Powertrains

We kick things off by looking at the powertrain options on offer. For the Myvi, no changes occur in the powertrain department, with the same 1.3- and 1.5-litre engines brought forward. Only the Standard G and SE comes with a choice between a 5-speed manual or 4-speed torque converter automatic. The Premium X and Advance is only available with the latter.

The Iriz comes in either 1.3- or 1.6-litre engines and every variant comes with a choice of either a 5-speed Getrag-sourced manual transmission or Punch CVT.

By the looks of things, the Proton Iriz’s 1.3- and 1.6-litre engines certainly produce more power than what the Myvi’s aging 1.3- and 1.5-litre engine is capable of. And with the choice of a Getrag 5-speed manual, it certainly sounds like the better choice.

However, not everyone is a fan of manually rowing through the gears and this is where the Myvi claws back as the Punch CVT automatic transmission used on the Iriz has been drawing quite a bit of flak for its performance. The Myvi may not use a fancier CVT gearbox but its 4-speed automatic is a tried and tested formula.

Dimensions & Space

The Iriz’s dimensions are 3,920 mm length x 1,722 mm width x 1,554 mm height, with a wheelbase of 2,555 mm. Boot space is 215 litres with the seats up and when folded into its 60:40 configuration, an extra 55 litres is made available.

Perodua’s Myvi dimensions as before with a 3,695 mm length (3,685 mm on the 1.5-litre variants) x 1,665 mm width x 1,570 mm height and 2,440 mm wheelbase. However, the Myvi’s rear seats are extendable and when the 60:40 seats have been folded down, allow a flat storage space.

Both cars are capable of sitting 5 passengers in relative comfort and there’s enough headroom and legroom for the both of them. On the merit of cargo capacity however, the Myvi takes the win here.

Infotainment

On the new Myvi, three different infotainment units are available depending on the variant chosen. A basic radio CD-player is assigned to the Standard G variant. Moving upwards, a more featured radio CD-player with MP3/WMA, USB and Bluetooth input unit is fitted onto the Premium X and SE models. At the top-of-the-range Advance variant sits a multimedia system with navigation and reverse camera. The reverse camera itself has distance measurements displayed in real-time, useful when trying to park the car.

The Proton Iriz however just ups the ante as the base Standard model already comes with a 2-DIN radio CD-player with an array of input capabilities including MP3, USB, AUX, and Bluetooth. Moving up to the 1.3 Executive trim, the same 2-DIN unit remains. For the 1.6 Executive and Premium, a 6.2-inch Android-based LCD touchscreen unit is in place featuring a rear view camera, navigation, and DVD playback, along with the above mentioned inputs as well. The aforementioned variants also come with a free Wi-Fi huddle as well

In this part, the Iriz edges the Myvi by introducing a more feature-packed infotainment unit from its base models onwards.

Equipment & Features

This is little bit of a toss-up between the two as each have their own advantages. Among the Myvi’s plusses are its front corner sensors on the Premium X, SE, and Advance, useful when judging the front end of the car is difficult. Semi-bucket seats come in the 1.5 variants with the Advance’s being upholstered in leather while the SE gets fabric ones. The 1.3 variants have standard fabric seats.

We do herald the cleverness of Perodua’s anti-snatch hook, deterring smash-and-grab incidents that was first seen on the Axia. Here, that safety clamp for handbags is available across all variants. Steering audio controls are available on the Premium X through to the Advance variants.

The Proton Iriz does have its fair share of tricks to get it back in the game too. On the 1.3 Executive, rear USB chargers come as standard, allowing your buddies to ensure their gadgets stay charged. The same variant also comes with follow me home lamps as well. Picking the 1.6 Premium brings about a slew of features including keyless operation, leather seats, multi-function steering wheel, daytime running lights, electric folding mirrors and automatic headlamps.

Alloy rims come as standard on both the Myvi and the Iriz’s base models with different designed ones on the upper variants respectively.

Safety

It’s a case of déjà vu here. Yet again, the Myvi’s only safety systems are its anti-lock brake system (ABS) with electronic brake distribution (EBD) and brake assist (BA). Even then, they are not available on the base Standard G model but is found on the other three variants although dual SRS airbags can be found across the range. The Myvi is rated with a 4-star rating on the ASEAN NCAP.

One redeeming feature though is the Myvi’s alarm system that uses a double-press method when unlocking the doors. On the first press, only the driver-side door is unlocked. Only upon a second press will all doors be unlocked, a particularly handy feature especially for those who drive alone.

Proton got it right with its safety package on the Iriz. From the base model onwards, traction control (TC), ABS with EBD and BA, electronic stability control (ESC), hill-hold assist (HHA) and dual front SRS airbags. Even more impressive, the 1.6 Premium tags on another four airbags bringing the total count up to six. This puts the Iriz on a higher rating on the ASEAN NCAP with 5-stars.

Price

As you can see from the prices tabled below, the Perodua Myvi is clearly cheaper than the Iriz. However, when you factor in the safety suite the Proton has to offer along with a few select features, it does negate the price differences which is merely a few hundred ringgit between them.

*All prices are on-the-road (OTR) with insurance