No amount of forumming can explain what is Electric instant torque feeling. The only thing similar is Diesel turbo when you mash the throttle, even then there is a split second quicker of instant-ness from Electric motor. I used to race RC car's competitively and I know what an electric motor rush is like compared to a gas powered engine.

So, the only real way of doing this properly is going to the showroom or at least call for a test drive. And make sure the car is bloody charged up by having it sit in idle for a long time.

The part with hybrids vs fossil fuel is that you may want to bet that petrol prices could increase to Rm4-6 per liter and at that time, it is very economically viable to own a hybrid. BUT this day may or may not come, and is very much under politically control and will. Personally I am for this, because I want to see petrol subsidy monies being used for infrastructure and education. But it is unlikely to happen. still, a bet is a bet. If eventually the government reduces the petrol subsidy, they can actually offset this with reduced hybrid tax. Of course it does not benefit the lower income group but perhaps it is a good way to wean us off fossil fuel dependency.

But, if you are left with Altis, I say its a great upgrade from a 16 y.o City. I will upgrade based on safety rating alone, and its various active and passive safety features. Survivability is much higher in a new metal chassis. But I drive my whole family in that thing and really I think the feeling of safety is utmost importance for me.

Likely you will spend a bit more petrol expense with it, or at least be prepared for it.

It is very comfortable, and longevity wise it will probably last another decade, easily.

With this contrasting condition, I may try and get a hybrid if the price is right - hence perhaps sticking with your current car is not too bad an idea, if you don't actually drive a lot.

in Malaysia, buying car is not really a spur of the moment or an impulsive purchase, at least for me.

Representing almost 1 year of my nett pay, any car is a 10 year commitment. So I wouldn't do it on a whim, even if my car is already 16 years old.....

I'd try to justify my financial goals vs getting a new car just for the sake of the enjoyment.

Maybe I misinterpret your indecision on which model as considering an impulse purchase. My apologies. If you are so open and wide as to what models to consider then I suggest NOT to discount the x50. In my mind, 50k - myvi. 70k Yaris, 100k x50 for small size, Alza for big size, 130k Civic or Corolla or Corolla cross hybrid. In my personal scenario I have 4, Myself, wife, teenagers x2

Including the dreaded punch CVT?

I’m gonna be honest, if I had to go for IRIZ I’d rather listen to Bobby Ang, get a Saga and wait for the right financial situation to get a Civic lol.
I don’t wanna pay rm40-50k for a car I’m horribly not in love with looks wise. There I said it. I also do hate fugly cars , especially at the wrong price.