I've driven the Ativa, first-gen Myvi, third-gen Myvi, X50, X70 and sixth-gen City, so in terms of better driving experience for me it would be X70, X50, City, Ativa, Myvi in that order.

However, in terms of after sales experience, Perodua wins hands down. I regret buying the Honda City only to pay more and still end up with funny rattling sounds and lousy service. I might as well buy local.

I tried giving Proton a chance but they screwed it up too, making me wait 6 months but still no sign of my X50 even though I booked on the very first day. I cancelled it the day Ativa was announced, and now have to wait 2 months for a refund. I can't imagine how long owners would have to wait for parts.

Although I can afford the X70, I realize that unless I have connections inside Proton, it's far more stress-free to stick with Perodua. I'm willing to forego all the refinement and premium quality the X70/X50 has to offer so that I can drive a car that does its job well enough.

So far I'm very satisfied with the Ativa experience, both driving and owning it. I got it a week after launch, enjoyed driving it all over KL, PJ, Subang Jaya, Cyberjaya and Shah Alam, and just went through the 1000km inspection last week. I'm so happy with my Ativa that I'm glad I didn't get the X50.

Of course there are some complaints but for me it's an acceptable trade off. You get what you pay for. Or do you? Pick your poison and hope for the best, I guess...