The Perodua Bezza 1.0 Automatic, introduced with the 2020 facelift, represents an entry-level offering within the Bezza sedan range. Launched by Malaysian manufacturer Perodua, the Bezza was conceived as an affordable and fuel-efficient sedan aimed at first-time car buyers and families in the Southeast Asian market. The 2020 facelift brought cosmetic updates and minor revisions to the powertrain, solidifying the Bezza’s position as a popular choice in its segment. This particular 1.0L variant, paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, served as the base model, prioritizing economy and ease of use over outright performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Perodua |
| Model | Bezza |
| Generation | Bezza (facelift 2020) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 (68 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.9 kg/Hp, 77.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.7 kg/Nm, 103.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 68 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 91 Nm @ 4400 rpm (67.12 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 1KR-VE |
| Engine displacement | 998 cm3 (60.9 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 71 mm (2.8 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 2.7 l (2.85 US qt | 2.38 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 2.9 l (3.06 US qt | 2.55 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 880 kg (1940.07 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 508 l (17.94 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 36 l (9.51 US gal | 7.92 UK gal) |
| Length | 4170 mm (164.17 in.) |
| Width | 1620 mm (63.78 in.) |
| Height | 1525 mm (60.04 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2455 mm (96.65 in.) |
| Front track | 1410 mm (55.51 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1405 mm (55.31 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 9 m (29.53 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive, Internal Combustion engine |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 175/65 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Bezza 1.0 Automatic is the 1KR-VE engine, a 998cc inline-three cylinder petrol engine. This engine is a staple in Perodua’s lineup, known for its simplicity and fuel efficiency. It utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Variable Valve Timing-intelligence (VVT-i) to optimize performance and economy. The 1KR-VE produces 68 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 91 Nm (67.12 lb-ft) of torque at 4400 rpm. This power is then sent to the front wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission. While not a sophisticated gearbox by modern standards, the four-speed automatic was chosen for its reliability and cost-effectiveness, contributing to the Bezza’s overall affordability.
Driving Characteristics
The driving experience in the Bezza 1.0 Automatic is geared towards practicality and ease of use. Acceleration is modest, with the engine feeling strained when attempting brisk maneuvers or overtaking. The four-speed automatic transmission, while smooth in operation, lacks the responsiveness of more modern transmissions with a greater number of gears. Gear ratios are optimized for fuel economy rather than performance. In real-world conditions, the Bezza 1.0 Automatic performs best in city driving, where its compact size and light steering make it easy to maneuver. Compared to higher-spec Bezza variants with a 1.3-liter engine, the 1.0L feels noticeably slower, particularly when fully loaded with passengers and cargo.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The base-model Bezza 1.0 Automatic typically came equipped with basic amenities. Standard features included air conditioning, power windows, and central locking. Safety features such as dual airbags and ABS were also standard. Interior upholstery was typically a simple cloth material. Optional extras, depending on the package selected, could include a touchscreen infotainment system, reverse parking sensors, and alloy wheels. The trim level focused on providing essential features at the lowest possible price point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
Chassis & Braking
The Bezza utilizes a relatively simple chassis design. The front suspension consists of MacPherson struts, while the rear suspension employs a torsion beam setup. This configuration prioritizes cost-effectiveness and space efficiency. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. The braking system, while adequate for everyday driving, lacks the stopping power of more sophisticated setups found in higher-spec vehicles. Stabilizer bars were typically omitted on the base model to further reduce costs.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Perodua Bezza 1.0 Automatic was generally well-received in the Malaysian market as an affordable and fuel-efficient sedan. Critics praised its practicality and low running costs, but noted its lack of performance and refinement. Compared to other entry-level sedans in its class, such as the Proton Saga, the Bezza offered a slightly more refined driving experience and a reputation for reliability. Fuel economy was a key selling point, with the Bezza consistently achieving impressive figures in real-world testing. However, the 1.0L engine was often criticized for feeling underpowered, particularly when compared to the 1.3L variants.
Legacy
The Perodua Bezza, including the 1.0 Automatic variant, has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The 1KR-VE engine is known for its longevity, and the four-speed automatic transmission is generally trouble-free. In the used car market, the Bezza 1.0 Automatic remains a popular choice for those seeking an affordable and economical mode of transportation. Its simplicity and low maintenance costs make it an attractive option for first-time car owners and those on a tight budget. While not a performance car, the Bezza 1.0 Automatic has established itself as a practical and dependable sedan in the Malaysian automotive landscape.
