Perodua Ativa: Malaysia’s Compact SUV That Punches Above Its Weight

In a market flooded with compact SUVs, the Perodua Ativa has carved out a niche for itself by offering a compelling mix of style, practicality, and value. Launched in 2021, the Ativa is Perodua’s first foray into the B-segment SUV category, and it’s quickly become a favorite among urban drivers and small families across Malaysia. With its bold design, efficient powertrain, and impressive feature set, the Ativa proves that you don’t need to spend big to drive smart.

🚗 Design That Stands Out

The Ativa’s exterior design is modern and assertive. It features a bold front grille, LED headlamps, and sharp character lines that give it a sporty and youthful vibe. The compact dimensions—just under 4 meters in length—make it ideal for navigating tight city streets, while the elevated ride height and rugged styling lend it a confident SUV stance.

Available in vibrant colors like Pearl Delima Red, Cobalt Blue, and Glittering Silver, the Ativa appeals to a wide range of tastes. Alloy wheels, roof rails, and a rear spoiler add to its dynamic look, making it one of the most stylish options in its segment.

⚙️ Engine and Performance

Under the hood, the Ativa is powered by a 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine, producing 98 PS and 140 Nm of torque. Paired with a D-CVT (Dual-mode Continuously Variable Transmission), the engine delivers smooth acceleration and commendable fuel efficiency—averaging around 18.9 km/l, depending on driving conditions.

While it’s not built for high-speed thrills, the Ativa offers enough punch for daily commuting and weekend getaways. The turbocharger ensures responsive performance, especially in city traffic, and the CVT keeps the drive smooth and quiet.

🧠 Smart Features for Everyday Convenience

One of the Ativa’s biggest strengths is its feature-rich cabin. Even the base variant comes equipped with:

• LED headlights and DRLs
• Digital instrument cluster
• Touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth and USB connectivity
• Reverse camera and parking sensors

Higher trims add even more value, including:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Leather seats
• Push-start ignition
• Automatic climate control

The dashboard layout is clean and intuitive, with soft-touch materials and thoughtful storage spaces. The rear seats offer decent legroom for adults, and the boot space of 369 liters is more than adequate for groceries, luggage, or sports gear.

🛡️ Safety First

Perodua has made safety a priority with the Ativa. All variants come with six airbags, ABS with EBD, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), and Hill Hold Assist. But what really sets the Ativa apart is its inclusion of Perodua Smart Drive Assist (PSDA) in the higher trims, which includes:

• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Lane Keep Control
• Blind Spot Monitor
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert
• Pre-Collision Braking and Warning

These features are rare in this price bracket, making the Ativa one of the most safety-conscious compact SUVs in Malaysia.

📈 Market Impact and Popularity

Since its launch, the Ativa has consistently ranked among the top-selling SUVs in Malaysia. Its competitive pricing—starting around RM 62,500 and going up to RM 72,600—makes it accessible to a wide range of buyers. It’s especially popular among first-time car owners, young professionals, and small families looking for a reliable and stylish vehicle.

Perodua’s extensive service network and reputation for affordability and reliability further boost the Ativa’s appeal. Maintenance costs are low, spare parts are readily available, and resale value remains strong.

🌍 A Glimpse into the Future

With growing interest in electrification and hybrid technology, there’s speculation that Perodua may introduce a hybrid or electric variant of the Ativa in the coming years. Given its partnership with Daihatsu and Toyota, and the shared platform with the Daihatsu Rocky and Toyota Raize, the potential for future tech upgrades is promising.

If Perodua continues to innovate while keeping prices competitive, the Ativa could evolve into a regional benchmark for affordable, tech-savvy SUVs.

🏁 Final Thoughts: Small SUV, Big Value

The Perodua Ativa is proof that great things come in small packages. It combines stylish design, smart features, and solid performance in a compact footprint that’s perfect for urban living. With its impressive safety suite and wallet-friendly pricing, it’s no surprise that the Ativa has become a top choice for Malaysian drivers.