just wondering. if the car is giving you any other problem. coz if its not, maybe a good option is to change the battery.

They're just trying to milk the market by making an MPV that looks like an SUV as they can market and sell it at higher price.
Usually Van/MPV has no nose or short nose, with the engine usually between the driver and first row seats or under driver.
Now with many adopting sedan platform the engine is placed at the nose like most sedan and SUV.
Jack it up high, add roof rails and call it an SUV then mark up the price



You'd probably need a better car for balik kampung but how far away is your kampung?

I don't agree to buy a new car now.
Market is very unstable unless you really need to change car.
If for additional comfort or prestige just hold on to your horses.
Let's say you don't buy a car but instead park that extra rm1000 somewhere every month.
In one year you get 12k, enough to start your own carwash business for side hustle.



Toyota Mark X. *dab*
I probably converted 2-3 fella's here to get this instead of a Camry



Honda City is B-segment and the closes to that for premium German cars would be Audi A2/A3, Merc A-class hatch/sedan, Merc CLA, BMW 1 & 2-series (2 series you gotta becareful as certain models is a coupe and certain models it is also a funky MPV, personally I'd stay away from those as they're going to be pricey to buy and maintain as now many on the road also they all look funky unless you're into unique / rare cars).



The Toyota design is quite modular if either the electric or petrol drivetrain system fails it becomes a 100% of what's left.
e.g. if the electric drive train dies it will just be a regular 1.5 hatchback like a myvi, and if the reverse is true then it becomes an EV.
In better markets there are ways to fully convert to either one with full electric EV one of the favorite choice and the conversion also does away with any check warning lights that the petrol system is not functioning.
Also battery refurbishing and replacement is quite common is europe but not here.
It is still like a taboo topic to think a non-Toyota workshop can do it.
So that's why we're stuck with the idea of getting rid of hybrids after warranty over -- i mean you bought it to save the earth but now look what's happening right?

Any Nissan after Livina/Latio uses CVT from Jatco which is terrible = poor power transfer and high failure rate.
However, unless you're after classic sports cars like Godzilla or Fairlady from Nissan better just skip as even stuff like Livina is considered woefully under-spec in terms of safety regulations we're used to now even basic cars like Bezza has better safety features and fuel efficiency features.

Subaru is launching their new XV, try to book a test drive and see how. Ever since Subaru been taken over by Toyota they've made mode sense in terms of their product offering.
They basically use the Toyota way of designing a good engine and gearbox combo then apply it across their range.
Although we only get the XV and Forrester here in Malaysia, the same stuff can be found on the impreza and other models.
So basically the 2.0na is the baseline for their models and the 2.0T is the highline spec.
But some only come with 2.0t spec like the Le Vomit.

2018 Proton Perdana 2.0 - if you want that D-segment feel but don't want a car that's too old then you can consider the Proton Perdana. Although it is based on the Accord which is like 2 generations behind the current model with Turbo, it shares commonality even with the Accord that is just 1 generation ago and still very common on our streets. Parts and service won't be an issue, eventhough the badge suggest Proton you can service at any workshop as they'll just work on it like any other Accord. The only time you need Proton specific parts is for front and rear bumpers and lights. The door is also interchangeable with Accord in situations where motorbikes bang your door.

2016 VW Passat 1.8T - but what if you want something more current, turbo is the current trend so why buy a plain old NA car? Well, if you don't mind the car being 2 years older you can pick the Passat. VW has had a scandalous few years after the successful launch of the Golf MK5 and MK6 then everything went downhill at the tail end of MK6 for the brand globally. However, don't like bawang news run your life. Issues pertaining to the turbo and gearbox have been rectified. Thus, used car market punters can pickup a 200k car at a bargain basement price now.

2016 Audi A4 1.8T - then you're thinking "hey since i'm down this rabbit hole what is next?" So the answer would be if you don't mind it is 2 years older and instead of paying 49k you're paying 66k but instead of a VW or Proton brand car you're getting an Audi S-Line, then I suppose this is the natural conclusion. Majority of parts are interchangeable within VAG brands. Let's not talk about 3S prices, let's talk about sensible specialist workshops price you're looking at under RM350 for a normal visit and most of the cost goes into the fully synthetic oil you'll need. Still cheaper than bringing a new Vios with warranty to 3S nowadays normal service is around 250-450 depending on the extra's they shove down your throat.

2017 Mazda CX5 - if you want to go for Mazda and feel unsecure about the upkeep then pick their most famous model, with the amount of cars on the road the aftermarket parts scene is good with stockist bringing in parts from other places at cheaper price. The usual place would be China/Taiwan/Thailand, so instead of paying RM500 for brake pads at 3s you can get stuff which is just as good for lesser and really performance level stuff at 3s price. Being a 2017 car and the way Mazda's warranty works you can have 1 year of peace until warranty over. So make sure you take care of it well and get whatever you need changed claim under warranty then it won't bite you when warranty expires.

Thanks Sifu Zenix...reli love it when u touch on VW, it represents so much value in the used market (and especially useful for used car punters like us )...imagine d-seg at proton price (although maintenance a bit more than proton saja.. )

its also refreshing to know that prius 1.5 can , run on petrol thingy..seeing that the price dropped like a rock...

thank you soooo much for your valuable sharing of experience and knowledge..i tink u shud b ambassdor for european car brand to educate tat contis are not scary

Hi sifus, currently looking to change car.

1. Brand : BMW 318i, passat , accord 2.0 gen 9.5, civic 1.5, crv, cx5, or x50 (new)
2. Budget : 110k max
3. New/Used/Unreg : used/new
4. Specs : -
5. Transmission : as long as it is durable
6. NA or FI : doesn't matter as long as reliable with warranty
7. Type : 4 seater.
8. Remarks: currently driving 15 years old altis . I am worried the car will suddenly give up on me. So I might as well consider a better option car now.

maintenance is variable depending on TLC, driving style and sourcing.
if you've got the inside track and granted not a major accident/part replacement like dead gearbox, certain used conti's are cheaper to upkeep than a new japanese brand b-segment car.

better not later price go up when people get to smart



Don't touch the 316/318, they're trash.

Read my previous reply as I think the Perdana, Mark X, and Passat 1.8T are remarkable value.

However, looking at your requirements it seems you're roti canai-ing abit.
You want that turbo power but you want something reliable with warranty.
Let me lay out some options to get your head spinning more

Accord 2.0 gen9.5, you might as well pickup the Perdana.
It would be about the same year make but cheaper, of course it would be a generation older.
But both are running the 2.0 which can be underpowered depending on your driving style (you might be able to find a 2.4 that's the one to get as it is the full spec with everything)
2017 Mazda 6 - although it also uses a 2.0 it doesn't feel as underpowered as the Accord/Camry but of course if you can find a 2.5 variant it is better as those are full spec with everything but even the 2.0 middle spec looks, feels and drives miles better than any Camry/Accord. You pay abit more premium for service sometimes but usually normal maintenance just change oil and filter all 2.0 japanese d-segments without turbo is about the same.

I'd suggest you stay away from the Civic unless you gonna top up your budget to get a new one because the 1.5T is bound to be abused.

CRV for me is too boring and under spec.
It gives you reliability but spec for spec and look for look the CX5 beats it.
2016 Renaut Koleos - Overall I think Renault did a better job on the interior design, look and feel. The materials feels more premium too. And of course it should be brand new it is priced closer to 200k while it's twin is price closer to 150k, what's this twin? It is the Nissan X-Trail. Yes, the nicer looking X-Trail mcm copy cat Toyota Harrier but I think the overall "reskin" of the Koleos is better. Looks more premium but under the hood it is the same as the Nissan -- same engine and gearbox. So you can enjoy european refinement with Japanese reliability. And instead of a a 5+2 layout it is a 5 seater only so it is more spacious overall as the spacing between the seats are wider. However, do note any major issues that befall the Nissan X-Trail's engine/transmission will also translate to this model.

1. Brand : Honda, Mazda
2. Budget :Max RM120K
3. New/Used/Unreg : CX3, Civic, HRV (Used or New also OK)
4. Specs : Full spec
5. Transmission : AT/CVT
6. NA or FI : -
7. Type : Sedan or Compact SUV
8. Remarks : Currently driving KIA K3 1.6, 60% city drive

1. Brand : Something reliable, Toyota / Nissan / Kia ?
2. Budget : RM90k
3. New/Used/Unreg : Used
4. Specs : Must have 360cam and bluetooth connectivity
5. Transmission : Auto
6. NA or FI : Doesn't matter
7. Type : SUV
8. Remarks : Looking at XU60 Harrier (2013-2020) , hoping prices will drop further now that new gen Harrier is out.

This will be used for ferrying kids around, so comfort and safety is more important than speed or handling. Apart from Harrier anything else that should be considered ? RM90k is the max, even better if I can just spend half of that

Hi all, can i get some feedback here? Planning to change my car as below.

1. Brand : any (but leaning towards CX-3)
2. Budget : RM90k
3. New/Used/Unreg : Used
4. Specs : -
5. Transmission : Auto
6. NA or FI : -
7. Type : compact SUV
8. Remarks : Looking to change to an SUV as i prefer a taller height during a drive.

Any reason u guys not considering new SUVs within your budget ? Ativa, Aruz, BR-V, X50..

hi sifus, looking to get a reliable car for commuting. preferably something that's proven low maintenance, optimal fuel consumption, and reliable. this will be my first car (previously been driving a punto loaned by family) so i don't really have any heavy preference / requirements.

i've only started working for 3 years now and will need a car to get around. my clients and office is in KL, and i mainly travel from subang / cyberjaya / klang

1. Brand : any.
2. Budget : <25k
3. New/Used/Unreg : used
4. Specs : any
5. Transmission : auto
6. NA or FI ? : any
7. Type : any
8. Remarks : sometimes will pack my bicycle along, so would prefer something that has foldable seats like city

This post has been edited by klang.boy: Apr 12 2021, 06:12 PM

Mitsubishi XPANDER, with 360 camera, MPV that looks like SUV

Thanks, mainly considering a used XU60 Harrier or even Nissan Murano because of the comfort level in the cabin.

I've not tried x50 but spent time with BR-V and XPANDER and they just don't have that level of refinement yet (and of course, they're priced accordingly) which I why I'm looking at used/recond cars

I'm currently driving a car with 1.0 engine, and suffice to say I wish it had more power when driving in certain situations i.e. when going uphill. That's why Ativa is not in the list.

I've had experience driving a perodua, proton and honda, and would like to try driving a car with a different handling. Heard good things about Mazda, although I cannot find much info on CX-3 ownership.

All in all, I am just using this platform to get views and feedbacks on different car models, and may just end up continue driving my current car.

I suggest you giving Ativa a test drive. Drive before with 5 adults and 1 child in the car going uphill. Doesn't feel underpowered at all.

Agree w Frog, Ativa is 1.0l turbo churning almost 100hp moving slightly more than 1000kg. Your current 1.0l might be < 70hp.

However if handling is highest priority, go test drive CX3 as the model has not changed past 5 years to get an idea of what a second hand one will feel like.

Also which Proton model u benchmark for handling?

will be replying to both of you with the same car.



It doesn't have 360cam, blind spot detectors, auto boot and kick sensor.....but I've seen aftermarket upgrades for those and they're not too expensive.
The thing with certain car features it is okay to buy a car without it as aftermarket upgrades can be had cheaper or better, like the accessories above.
Certain things like tiptronic gear shifting can't be installed at any accessories shop nor would i want a shop to cut the roof to install a sunroof, those are best to come with the car.

It is a C-segment SUV you can buy new which has all the bells and whittles of a german marque.
Comes standard with leather seats, ambient cabin lights, auto wiper, auto lights, auto sunroof, dual zone auto aircon, electric hand brake, etc.
The spec sheet is quite impressive for the price.
Yes, it does lack some of the newer features and should have an all-new replacement soon with all that.
But I gotta admit, it is true the spec sheet for 2021 ain't that great if you compare it to it's peers but at that price it still works for me.
But yeah, that spec sheet would definitely be wow when it was launched back in 2015 iinm.

The 1.5T on this isn't at the same level as the 1.4TSI from VAG, however it is more reliable and cheaper to maintain.
It also comes with a more reliable 6 speed slushbox from the same supplier as BMW for the e90 series.
I've one in my garage for my parents to use, they love the cheap and cheerful car.

There are some drawbacks.
1) said i said before the 1.5T doesn't have the pickup some would expect, i did the tuning by Jason and when i floor it, it really moves especially for quick overtaking from low rolling speed like passing a smart tag lane at the toll.
2) boot size is quite small for a c-segment suv without AWD.
3) the local distributor hq at glenmarie is hopeless, salesman lousy and service center blur. if u buying do pm me to hook u up.



If you're looking for a car with height but not at pickup truck level of height until you need a step to get in and out then this car would be suitable.
Lately it has been raining and my dad went through flood waters with this car and we're lucky the water wasn't that high until it enter the cabin but it was at least higher than the kerb.
It also has a snow mode which is useful for times like this, it keeps your speed low (below 60kmh) so when you play with the throttle it is more or less just adjusting the amount of torque via rpm.
Not AWD but it works for urban terrain.
Yes, the spec for Malaysia is without AWD which can be a pros because we use it for urban roads anyway but it's suspension is good that it rides uneven tarmac well.

I got mine at 93k nett, I hear the newest facelift is quite nice and the pre-facelift models are being cleared at 85-90k OTR with insurance and roadtax.
For the price it is an unbeatable value.

I will just for the fun of it, but for actual purchase I will still need to consider it thoroughly.


I had experience driving the 1st gen Persona. Yes yes, i know it's a far cry from X50, but one of the deciding factors is the car needs to be readily available should I decide to change my current drive this month.


I'm curious - did you get yours brand new with that price? That's quite a steal imo. Mind telling me which dealer you went to?

Just get a 3 month lease from renault.999 per month. Better to wait for your dreamcar.

With 16 days to go,

Likely ..Haval ! lol