The Perodua Myvi III 1.3 (95 hp) Automatic, produced between November 2017 and November 2021, represents a significant iteration in Perodua’s popular city car lineage. Positioned as an entry-level variant within the Myvi III range, it aimed to provide affordable and practical transportation for the Malaysian market. The Myvi, consistently a best-seller in Malaysia, is designed to cater to the needs of urban commuters and small families, prioritizing fuel efficiency and ease of use. This particular 1.3L automatic model served as the gateway to the Myvi III lineup, offering a balance between cost and convenience. It’s built on the Perodua’s in-house developed platform, a testament to the company’s growing engineering capabilities.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Perodua |
| Model | Myvi |
| Generation | Myvi III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 (95 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | November, 2017 |
| End of production | November, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.3 kg/Hp, 97.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.1 kg/Nm, 124.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 95 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 121 Nm @ 4000 rpm (89.25 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 1NR-VE |
| Engine displacement | 1329 cm3 (81.1 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 3.1 l (3.28 US qt | 2.73 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 975 kg (2149.51 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 277 l (9.78 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 36 l (9.51 US gal | 7.92 UK gal) |
| Length | 3895 mm (153.35 in.) |
| Width | 1735 mm (68.31 in.) |
| Height | 1515 mm (59.65 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2500 mm (98.43 in.) |
| Front track | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 9.6 m (31.5 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) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 175/65 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Myvi III 1.3 Automatic is the 1NR-VE engine, a 1.3-liter inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its relatively efficient operation. The 1NR-VE is known for its reliability and simplicity, making it a cost-effective choice for Perodua. The engine produces 95 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 121 Nm (89.25 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. Paired with this engine is a four-speed automatic transmission. While not the most modern transmission available, it provides smooth and convenient shifting for everyday driving. The transmission is tuned for fuel economy rather than outright performance, with relatively short gear ratios designed to keep the engine operating within its optimal range.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3L automatic powertrain delivers adequate performance for urban driving conditions. Acceleration is modest, and overtaking requires planning, but the engine is generally responsive enough for typical commutes. The four-speed automatic transmission, while not offering the refinement of more modern gearboxes, provides smooth shifts. Compared to the manual transmission version of the same engine, the automatic sacrifices some fuel economy and responsiveness. Higher-spec Myvi III models equipped with a 1.5-liter engine offered significantly more power and a more engaging driving experience, but at a higher price point. The 1.3L automatic prioritizes ease of use and fuel efficiency over sporty handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Myvi III 1.3 Automatic typically came equipped with basic but essential features. Standard equipment included air conditioning, power windows, and central locking. Safety features such as dual airbags and ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) were also standard. Interior upholstery was typically fabric, and the dashboard featured a simple, functional design. Optional extras, depending on the package selected, could include a touchscreen infotainment system, reverse parking sensors, and alloy wheels. The trim level was generally considered the base model, offering a no-frills approach to transportation.
Chassis & Braking
The Myvi III utilizes a front-wheel-drive chassis with a MacPherson strut suspension in the front and a torsion beam suspension in the rear. The braking system consists of disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. This configuration is typical for vehicles in this price segment. The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a relatively smooth ride over uneven road surfaces. The electric power steering offers light and easy steering, making it ideal for maneuvering in tight urban environments.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Perodua Myvi III 1.3 Automatic was well-received in the Malaysian market due to its affordability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. Critics generally praised its ease of use and comfortable ride. However, some noted the engine’s lack of power and the transmission’s dated technology. Compared to other trims in the Myvi III lineup, the 1.3L automatic offered the lowest price of entry but sacrificed performance and some features. It competed directly with other entry-level city cars in Malaysia, such as the Proton Saga and the Kia Picanto, offering a compelling value proposition.
Legacy
The 1NR-VE engine, used in the Myvi III 1.3 Automatic, has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain. The Myvi III, in general, has maintained a strong reputation for reliability and low running costs. In the used car market, the 1.3L automatic variant remains a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical and dependable city car. Parts availability is excellent, and maintenance costs are relatively low, contributing to its continued appeal. While not a performance icon, the Myvi III 1.3 Automatic played a crucial role in making affordable and reliable transportation accessible to a wide range of Malaysian consumers.
