I am guessing you mean B-segment sedan or equivalent MPV/SUV

Mazda2 - should be out of your consideration because it is too compact the rear seats will be too cramped when fitting 4

Kia - they've exited this margin for bargain cars and now fight as a premium korean brand or EV brand

Honda City/Nissan Almera full spec is with your reach. Both cars have similar body types where they stretch it abit so the rear passengers have better legroom. The Nissan has a turbo option but maintainence wise after warranty period it will be a hit/miss, so if you only plan to keep it 3-5 years go for turbo else pick the NA, the Honda City is NA but as with most Honda's the engine is tweaked well so it won't feel underpowered.

Don't bother with recon EV's
Battery packs will cost you near 100k without warranty.

Volvo recharge series is a good option.



Hot ones always don't drop.
All the even number Civics are hot, and price don't drop so much.
Even FD coming up and might overtake Gen9 eventhough it is older.



Based on (8) and with no reliability and upkeep issues.
These are my suggestions below.

2009 Porsche Cayenne 4.8 - fantastic engine, fantastic brand, fantastic performance, and a comfortable cabin for everything. You'll have more than just cruise control at your disposal. However, before you make the plunge do join owners groups and find out ways to reduce your upkeep cause although buying price is cheap, maintenance isn't.

2017 Pug 508 1.6THP - they say a luxury conti on par with BMW and Merc. It fits the requirements you've set out, although it is nice to drive but if you're looking for something you can drive aggressively this isn't the car.

2015 Audi A4 Quattro S-Line - this is the highest trim level before going into crazy performance spec cars in similar vein as AMG from Merc or M3 from BMW. The Quattro means it is an AWD meaning the traction is crazy good so unless the drive is an idiot the car won't "buang" easily when cornering at speed. Talking about speed the S-Line is like the performance tune of those engines without doing extra engineering like chassis lightening, better headers, extractors, exhaust, etc. It is factory tune to the full capability of the cars hardware.

2018 Proton Perdana 2.4 - if you're looking for all that but a more realistic target then Perdana would be it. It is based on the reliable Honda Accord, thus no issues on finding parts and mechanics to work on it on a budget. The 2.4cc variant is the top-spec with all the bells and whistles. Being a 2018 car it is about 5 years old, still young enough and have a long life ahead. Take it now and maintain it well.










If you wanna save money and get an upgrade from your Getz then a used Vento is a way to go about it.
However, VAG has probably stopped selling them.
But they're common as Myvi in China and India thus parts isn't an issue to get with global supply chains.

VAG Malaysia has been losing money for sometime for Vento/Polo Sedan because the price is broken.
Dealers used to do pre-reg cars alot just to push volume and hit targets.
Because a new car is limited by the set RSP of the brand owner.
Used cars are not, it is dependant on market forces.
Dealers pre-reg and sell new cars as used so they price it down alot.
VAG knew this loophole and wasn't happy but I think they've stopped it after all the committed stocks to malaysia has been sold.

You might wanna checkout Neta V
Last I check they're giving a 10 year warranty, 7 year free service and 5 years 0% loan.

if you mean you want fuel efficient means you wanna drive there at a crawling speed
or fuel efficient at higher speeds

because if want outright fuel efficient get a small car like myvi manual
drive slow slow very efficient
but if you go fast it cannot because the engine and gearbox not setup that way

but if you wanna drive fast and be efficient need cars with good gearing ratios and efficient engine
a car like honda civic would enable you to cruise at 90-120kmh at around 2000+ rpm

so with that in mind here are my dua sen

2018 Merc CLA180 Shooting Brake - this might cost you more than Japanese cars when it comes to upkeep but never turn down a good deal for a conti. Usually you'll be able to get recon/unreg after the 120k price mark. If you're not familiar with the term it means a used car that hasn't been registered in Malaysia before. It is parallel imported here so when you register it you can usually get some new car benefits like choosing your own number plate, there won't be any factory warranty but such cars would get you decently priced 3rd party warranty usually paid by the seller for minimum first year, you want to extend it can it is up to you and if you're worried of gremlins i recommend you do it before buying and using because premiums go up higher after purchasing because it is not in "mint condition" anymore. So about the car basically shooting brake means a stationwagon but not ugly ones grandpa used to drive, it is quite tasteful.

2019 Honda Civic FK7 Hatch 1.5T - would you rather buy a used car from 2017 @ RM90k ++ or a recon from 2019 @ RM130k ++, the recon you getting something rare and different from everyone. Your name is first owner of the car so selling on is better, consider like new car you can get it with warranty and new number plate, put on the bodykit people think it is TypeR.

actually you can get a used Perdana Accord cheaper
about the same age
spec better and higher segment

so in this scenario you need two cars for a total budget of 150k, okay

Car 1: 2023 Perodua Axia 1.0G @ 39k - a base spec car that is a capable runabout, won't give you prestige but won't give you headaches either

Car 2:
2018 Toyota Tank 1.0 @ 99K - a small MPV, it is small enough it won't be like driving a gajah around everyday but it gives you the seats and seatbelts for weekend use.

2023 Neta V @ 99k - an EV with a good price, long warranty and also good purchase package (if u need recommendations for SA do PM) because it is a second car you can indulge in something more fancy because the Axia is a tank and won't die on you.

2016 Merc A200 @ 95k - if you're not comfortable with EV's then how about a prestige marque's baby segment?

Mitsubishi Xpander mostly suffers from poor marketing with owners getting mocked for buying a "suspender" or underwear.
It's mirror twin is the Nissan Livina.
Overall it is a decent enough car, the engine is quite reliable.
It doesn't use junk Nissan engines or gearboxes.
It uses 4A91 from Mitsubishi, which was used in many other models before this, not many complaints.
it's height is crossover-like so higher than sedan but lower than a van so people can step in and out without needing a step.
But like the Livina before this they don't do well in terms of resale value so it is an alternative MPV/SUV option if you wanna avoid Toyota/Honda but still want something reliable.

Outlander is a fuel guzzler, high roadtax and with low volume sales parts are pricier than other models.
Except for engine components as it shares a similar engine with many other models.

Sorento don't touch the upkeep is expensive.

Tiguan will have an expensive upkeep as well but the turbo is fun to drive.

2019 Toyota Harrier 2.0 - if you can up your budget by 10k then just aim for this, most of these will be recon/imported units with very good spec. Since it is not too old expect things like leather seats to be still in good condition, after buying quickly go to polish shop to seal in the leather and paint with protection. Reliability isn't an issue with Toyota cars unless abused. And it's resale value should hold quite nicely at 35-45k for until it's 10th birthday, by then you'll probably accumulate enough funds to replace it.

2019 Subaru Forrester 2.0ip - the IP doesn't mean you'll be a master kungfu practitioner, it means the car is the highest spec available locally. This is the spec with the power boot, useful for wifey and oldies. Things to note for this car, although the engine and gearbox is quite reliable and not too expensive to maintain -- this is thanks to Subaru being bought by Toyota so they Toyota-rised it, many models use the same engine and gearbox just tuned differently for different results but maintenance is lowered by more cars on the road with the same stuff so you have economics of scale. Only bad point is the fuel consumption because it is AWD so the engine eats more fuel for driving 4 wheels all the time but the benefit is during wheatear like this u can drive with confidence.

2019 Renault Koleos 2.5 - basically the Koleos is the twin of the Nissan X-Trail, they have similar dimensions and spec, only thing is the Koleos gets that refined european interior look and feel. But you can still treat it like a japanese car and bring it to any workshop that will take care of it like a nissan. Only thing though -- the xtrail is a 5+2 seater, but this is a fixed 5 seater only.

king

myvi would be an okay car
also don't go for kelisa/kancil anymore those cars running on 12-13" tires because that tire size is getting rare
a friend bought china tires for his kancil oso spent like 140 per donut
that is like promo price for 15"

2016 VW Vento/Polo Sedan 1.6MPI - VW was selling this at a loss here to gain market share but it didn't happen because of too many scandals/gates, their brand is alright now but people mostly focus on few premium models only. I think it is okay to gain from others loss, this was selling for quite a sum of money when new because of the badge but don't let that fool you. This is like taxi spec they use at India and China (it is quite common there) it has a reliable 1.6MPI engine which is similar in technology to i-VTEC or VVT-i era, and the 6 speed gearbox is supplied by Aisin -- the same guys that make Toyota gearboxes so it is plenty reliable if not abused. European tuned suspension would feel a bit more stiff but has a solid reassuring feel.

2017 Renault Fluence 2.0 - This may look like a continental car to avoid but it is actually a Sylphy in disguise. Via partnership with Nissan this model came out. Basically it is a reskin of the Sylpy you can bring it to any local workshop and treat it like a japanese car, not a problem. The only problem that both cars face is overheating CVT transmission if you drive it hard or for long periods, check if the one you buying has been sorted because there isn't an official recall but some may have been fixed at the 3S or newer model which already fixed the problem. Same like the Vento it has a nicely sorted European interior and handling.

if you have considered the sylphy then expect the same from fluence

everything exactly the same
just looks nicer not so uncle look
and interior gaya europah

Nothing under 100k has a decently powerful engine and sorted chassis for spirited driving.
Spirited driving dangerously, yes.

If you're not worried about future problems and would change car after 5-7 years then Ativa / X50 are budget choices.
Fits the bill, however don't give much hope for Proton's after sales service.
Perodua is decent on after sales service but generally old people say Ativa is ugly.

WRV and HRV for me are both underpowered.
HRV turbo top spec is a good but it breaks your budget.
WRV is overall okay, top spec out of your budget but it's 1500cc lump is decent enough.
I feel it is not enough.

Generally unless it is A-segment SUV like Ativa, don't bother with any 1500cc NA B-segment SUV, that goes double for C-segment.
With turbo it is maybe for B-segment but C-segment with 1.5T is still so so only.
I've a Haval H2 which has a 1.5T at home, it is decent enough but not for spirited driving -- decent highway cruiser.

Neta V which is an SUV EV @ RM99k should be in your radar, EV's generally have that punch you want.
Though not entirely convinced about it having a sorted chassis.

so glowing your report on x50
Shhhhh the ativa gang might hear u

You might be right, it might not be available new anymore since Haval is going up market and EV focus with Ora Goodcat.
The one I got was a steal at 93k ono new car.
The Chery Omoda 5 is a great option for slightly above 100k, it has the looks but long term reliability, upkeep and handling....well I don't know

X50 is rapid enough, though I have worries for long term reliability.
Did you add any stability bars, better shocks or tires to improve the handling?
That's an ego busting dent, but luckily damage isn't serious.



Yeah, Ford's here are expensive to maintain.
It is not worth it unless you like the brand or like the handling.
if it is just something for normal transport I'd recommend something else.

With your budget of course another Polo Hatch or Polo Sedan would fit the bill.
Okay, I'm going to put a bit of effort and recommend an alternative.

2011 Nissan X-Gear 1.6 - This is the 5 seater crossover version of the Nissan Livina, it shares the same 1600cc and 1800cc engine with Livina and Latio of the same generation. Nothing really fancy about this car, it uses an ancient but reliable 5 speed slushbox transmission, and simple engine. I used to have one, the only issue I had was the aircon setting at 1 is not cold enough like kupukupu, then setting at 2 is freezing, never go 3 or 4. Simple car to buy and maintain. Maybe size might be a problem but student might wanna go jalan2 or bring equipment for camping or balik kampung.

2013 Nissan Latio 1.6 - think of this as a different body style to the car above, similar chassis and drivetrain. It is also considered a C-segment vehicle, albeit small/narrow for today's standards but back then this was C-segment. Latio has 2 body styles which is sedan and hatch, maybe ladies like the hatch usually the white color STL Impul spec has a nice bodykit too.

2012 Mazda 3 2.0 this is a 2000cc C-segment sedan, upkeep might be higher because of it's segment and engine capacity -- but if you thinking of upgrading from your Polo to drive then then pass the Polo to her it might be an option. Newer Mazda's after Zoom Zoom era are quite reliable but parts are usually a slight premium above the usual suspects of P1, P2, T and H.



Yes, generally a lot of parts are compatible however body panels except for the doors are not compatible.
But for a car that would have any significant damage to the body, it is already a write-off, get your insured value and get another used car/new car.
Upkeep is the same as engine, gearbox, aircond, etc. are the same.

Yes, Polo Sedan is a good option.
However, do note Sylphy/Fluence is C-segment while Polo Sedan is B-segment.

2010 Proton Inspira 1.8A - If you want a more reliable and cheaper C-segment but don't mind slightly aged would be this, also the caveat is that the brand is Proton but it is actually a rebadged Mitsubishi. However, the top-up slightly for the 2000cc instead of the 1800cc is your choice. Having the 2000cc variant means full spec and same engine as a lot of other mitsubishi cars so parts and upkeep should be lower.



Axia Rahmah fits the bill for something which you don't need to overthink.
It has enough safety equipment for the road, but I don't recommend speeding around or driving it outstation where highspeed collisions may happen.
Manual gearbox hardly fails, and it has a reliable engine, should last you forever if not abused and maintained properly.
Most of the time it is just a 'put petrol and go' machine.

I think there are 3 main points you need to consider before buying Axia Rahmah.

1. Are you okay with driving a manual? Yes
2. Are you okay with a basic car? Yes (some people with big ego or thin skin needs it as a means to show off, if for you it is just a transport then no issues)
3. Do you like PBSM girls? Yes

X-Gear and Latio benefits are because they're Japanese made with old tech = reliable.
Made locally so parts ain't an issue.
Noting really fancy about them, gets the job done.

Polo Sedan or Hatch are spec well for the price.
Actually they should be more expensive but because of VW kena boikot due to all the scandals everything except GTI doesn't hold value.
Avoid the turbo variants with DSG, fun to drive but high upkeep.
Hatch or sedan is your choice they're both okay.
Try and get the youngest you can afford that isn't abused.

Always go for something without any modifications.
The android player might look nice compared to its standard item but usually for android players to fit they need to change the facade sometimes including the aircon vents, etc.
The fit and finish of these after market facade/casing won't be able to match the original.
And if the person wasn't skilled when installing it the wiring might be ducked up.

Aftermarket rims is another thing.
They do not have the durability of the OEM's, and makes your speedo inaccurate.

VW had 3 issues.

1) Diesel gate: originally all their diesel engines gave glowing emissions reports, it was later found out that VW cheated. The ECU has a testing mode and everyday normal driving mode.

2) DSG gate: early 2010's was the rise of dual clutch gearboxes and made famous by VW especially with the Golf GTI, but not all are made equal. They have the 7 speed dry-clutch, and 6 speed wet-clutch. The 7 speed "dry-clutch" is actually a closed system which VW said should last for the lifetime of the car (nobody told him some people drive the car for over 10 years?) these closed system is like never changing engine oil, things get messed up. Most cars with 1.2TSI and 1.4TSI from VW stable all use the 7 speed. The higher-end models like the Passat CC and Golf GTI uses the 6 speed wet-clutch.

3) TSI gate: same time FSI (fuel stratified injection) engines from VW become TSI (turbo stratified injection) which later also become TSI (twincharged stratified injection) with twincharged meaning it has 2 turbo's instead of 1. Power and performance was great, everyone that ever driven one never complained about the fun they had when driving the car, only when they not having fun at the workshop. Again most cars with 1.2TSI and 1.4TSI from VW were the unlucky ones getting engine failure. The higher-end models like the Passat CC and Golf GTI uses the 2.0TSI which seems more reliable if not abused.

Thus later on people seeing the pattern only go for VW cars with 2.0TSI and 6-speed DSG. They later fixed the issues with the 1.4TSI's which helped saved alot of Passat owners but market impression was already in tatters. This is also why when they launched the new Tiguan with new/improved 1.4TSI with 6-speed DSG nobody really bought into it.



Okay since HRV and Serena is your point of reference I cannot suggest anything lower than that because what you deem as comfort and nice interior doesn't work backwards, so with that in mind going to something like Axia or Bezza as your first car would be a downgrade experience because it is going to be real loud and not as comfortable with poorer NVH, it sounds like you're going 160kmh on a HRV but you're actually just doing 80kmh on a highway. So nothing below B-segment.

Yaris, City, Vios, Almera, HRV, WRV are all decent options.
Pick the one you like the most and you can get the highest spec for the money.

Value for money cars you can consider used.

2018 Proton Perdana 2.4 - it is basically an 8th gen Honda Accord rebadge with slighly different front and rear, everything else is 100% compatible with the Honda. Upkeep is cheap but do remember it is a D-segment sedan thus it ain't as cheap to upkeep as a Kancil. You'll get a comfortable ride, decent interior and 2400cc engine has plenty of punch for highways, if you want to consider the lower end 2000cc also can but it will lack some safety features.

plus buying a car @ 20k and not very old
can still get first party insurance
minor damage just live with it
major accident damage just take insurance write-off sum
top-up to buy another cheapo or deposit for new car
no need worry about "aiyah body parts hard to find for this model later"

that is the power of brand perception and being a smart buyer
people dunno anything easily listen to their friend/brother/father/doctor/dog
then create a situation where that item resale value drop
but if u knowledgeable u can get stuff at good price

This post has been edited by zenix: Nov 23 2023, 08:02 PM

2012 Proton Inspira 2.0 - if you're not convinced then maybe look for something like this? An easy way to get a Japanese C-segment. Rebadge Mitsubishi Lancer. Parts not an issue because Proton made it they have to honour it for 20 years. But since it is a global model all the stockist will bring over alternatives from china and taiwan. See your budget only.

kenot compare conti wif japano

except for steering it is all mitsu

search around.
you can sometimes find them at other conti "premium selection" used car lots.
go through more credible sources like that, topmark, etc. before trying regular used car dealers if you're worried



ah! i forgot due to this the original inspira suspension parts are more expensive than lancer.



you can look at it from this point of view
if the mileage is high means the dealer didn't bother to tamper with anything
so what you see is what you get
inspect it for flood and accident damage
request to drive it to your trusty mechanic for a once over
if refuse offer to pump petrol rm10 should be enough to get you there and back
if they refuse and keep saying "only use our panel" or "when u buy will send to JPJ to check" all free
walk away something they trying to hide