Would suggest proton ertiga. Yes, its an rebadged suzuki ertiga 2012 but its a MPV that handles like a car, higher wheelbase, and high headroom which is good for your height. 2nd hand less RM40k can get, but parts need to sendiri cari.

If you want shorter cars with similar headroom, consider Suzuki SX4.

Dunno why still got people say Saga is CVT tranny.... Saga already using 4AT since 2019. Even 2023 version using Aisin 4AT. I had the 2008 Saga BLM (4AT) and acceleration all is great after a few exhaust modifications. That time, I was using 15" rim with Michelin Pilot Sport 3 (which has great grip) and the car still can move fast. Served 12 years with zero issues other than engine oil leaking due to wear and tear. The car do has its downside (i.e. NVH and the infamous sagat, in addition seats using bad cloth material) but for the price its negligible.

Downfall starts when they released this FL and FLX with CVT until 2018 and practically all the complaints on the transmission flood like no tomorrow.

Persona's power is okay due to higher cc but mind you, Campro engines fc is on the higher side even for a 1.3L. Imagine having a 1.6L above campro. But least you get a better chassis, NVH, and ride comfort and safety features.

If really your budget is around 40k, new Saga should be enough to have a peace of mind. 2nd hand japanese cars could be a pain in the arse as you will need to reserve another 4-5k for suspension and engine weartear parts - even if you get a well maintained model....

This post has been edited by MishimaZ: Jul 27 2023, 05:19 PM

I believe 3rd gen Saga (2019 to 2022) is using the same gearbox as the 1st gen Saga, but may be wrong about it. It is this year the gearbox is from other supplier, so nobody knows the reliability, but its Aisin so I think nothing much will go wrong.

2nd generation has the worst tranny, but has better suspension than the 1st. Not to say CVT got big issues as cars is always about the quality of maintenance, but its known those that abuses their Proton CVT tend to face problems more frequently... Maybe the gearbox itself ain't as durable as the traditional 4at? I dunno.

If I buy 2nd hand also, I'd prefer cars with 4at over cvt too.