The Perodua Aruz 1.5i Automatic, launched in 2019, represents Perodua’s entry into the seven-seater sport utility vehicle (SUV) market. Built upon a rebadged Toyota Daihatsu New Global Platform (DNGA), the Aruz was designed to cater to the growing demand for affordable, family-oriented vehicles in Malaysia and other Southeast Asian markets. This particular 1.5i variant, powered by the 2NR-VE engine and a four-speed automatic transmission, served as the base model within the Aruz lineup, prioritizing practicality and fuel efficiency over outright performance. It quickly became a popular choice for families seeking a spacious and reliable vehicle at a competitive price point.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Perodua |
| Model | Aruz |
| Generation | Aruz |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5i (102 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.8 kg/Hp, 77.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.8 kg/Nm, 101.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 102 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 133 Nm @ 4200 rpm (98.1 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm) |
| Engine Model/Code | 2NR-VE |
| Engine displacement | 1496 cm3 (91.29 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, D-VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1310 kg (2888.06 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 213 l (7.52 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 514 l (18.15 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Length | 4435 mm (174.61 in.) |
| Width | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Height | 1740 mm (68.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2685 mm (105.71 in.) |
| Front track | 1445 mm (56.89 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 220 mm (8.66 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| 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 | 215/60 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Aruz 1.5i Automatic is the 2NR-VE 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is part of Toyota’s NR engine family, known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. The 2NR-VE utilizes a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) configuration with Dual Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (D-VVT-i) technology, optimizing valve timing for improved performance and fuel economy across a wider range of engine speeds. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine produces 102 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 133 Nm (98.1 lb-ft) of torque at 4200 rpm. Paired with this engine is a four-speed automatic transmission, chosen for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. While not offering the refinement of more modern transmissions with more gears, it provides smooth enough shifts for everyday driving.
Driving Characteristics
The Aruz 1.5i Automatic’s driving experience is geared towards comfort and ease of use rather than sporty performance. The four-speed automatic transmission, while reliable, has relatively wide gear ratios. This results in noticeable engine revving during acceleration, particularly when fully loaded with passengers and cargo. The 102 hp output is adequate for city driving and highway cruising, but overtaking maneuvers require careful planning. Compared to potential higher-spec variants (if offered with a more powerful engine), the 1.5i feels noticeably less responsive. The rear-wheel drive configuration contributes to a stable feel, but it doesn’t offer the all-weather capability of an all-wheel drive system. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road reasonably well.
Equipment & Trim Levels
As the base model, the Aruz 1.5i Automatic typically came equipped with essential features. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system. Safety features such as Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) were standard. Interior upholstery was typically fabric, and the dashboard featured a functional, if somewhat basic, design. Optional extras, depending on the market and dealer packages, could include alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, reverse parking sensors, and upgraded interior trim.
Chassis & Braking
The Aruz utilizes a body-on-frame construction, a traditional approach that contributes to its robustness and durability. The suspension system consists of MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. The rear drum brakes were a cost-saving measure typical of base model variants. The vehicle’s relatively high ground clearance of 220 mm (8.66 inches) provides good clearance for navigating uneven roads and minor obstacles.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Perodua Aruz 1.5i Automatic was generally well-received in its target market. Critics praised its spacious interior, affordability, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted the engine’s lack of power, particularly when the vehicle was fully loaded. Compared to other seven-seater SUVs available in the same price range, the Aruz offered a compelling value proposition, especially for families prioritizing practicality and reliability. Its fuel economy of 6.4 l/100 km was competitive within its class. Compared to potential higher-spec Aruz variants, the 1.5i offered a more accessible entry point, albeit with fewer features and less performance.
Legacy
The Perodua Aruz 1.5i Automatic has established itself as a reliable and affordable family vehicle in the used car market. The 2NR-VE engine is known for its durability, and the four-speed automatic transmission, while simple, is generally trouble-free. Maintenance costs are relatively low, thanks to the widespread availability of parts and the simplicity of the powertrain. As a result, the Aruz 1.5i Automatic remains a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a spacious and dependable SUV.
