The Perodua Myvi II 1.3, produced between 2011 and 2014, represents a significant iteration in the popular Malaysian city car’s lineage. Positioned as an entry-level variant within the Myvi II range, it offered an affordable and fuel-efficient option for first-time car buyers and urban commuters. This model, built on the second generation Myvi platform, aimed to build upon the success of the original Myvi by offering improved refinement, safety features, and a more modern aesthetic. It was a key model for Perodua, solidifying their position as a leading automotive manufacturer in Malaysia and a major player in the Southeast Asian market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Perodua |
| Model | Myvi |
| Generation | Myvi II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 (91 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.4 kg/Hp, 95.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.1 kg/Nm, 123.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 91 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 117 Nm @ 4400 rpm (86.29 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | K3-VE |
| Engine displacement | 1298 cm3 (79.21 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72 mm (2.83 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 79.7 mm (3.14 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.1 l (3.28 US qt | 2.73 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.3 l (5.6 US qt | 4.66 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 950 kg (2094.39 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l (10.57 US gal | 8.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 3695 mm (145.47 in.) |
| Width | 1665 mm (65.55 in.) |
| Height | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2440 mm (96.06 in.) |
| Front track | 1455 mm (57.28 in.) |
| Rear track | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 160 mm (6.3 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| 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 Myvi II 1.3 was powered by Perodua’s K3-VE engine, a 1.3-liter inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain and multi-point fuel injection. The K3-VE was known for its relatively simple design, contributing to its reliability and ease of maintenance. The engine produced 91 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 117 Nm (86.29 lb-ft) of torque at 4400 rpm. The engine’s design prioritized fuel efficiency over outright performance. The 5-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing a direct connection between the engine and the front wheels. The transmission was chosen to maximize fuel economy and provide adequate performance for city driving.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3L engine and manual transmission combination in the Myvi II delivered a practical, if not particularly exciting, driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for urban environments, but highway overtaking required careful planning. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine needed to be revved to access its peak power. Compared to higher-spec Myvi II models equipped with larger engines, the 1.3L felt noticeably less powerful. However, the lighter weight of the base model helped to mitigate some of the performance deficit. The manual transmission offered drivers more control over the engine’s power band, allowing for more efficient driving and a more engaging experience than the available automatic option.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Myvi II 1.3 was typically equipped with basic, yet functional, features. Standard equipment included power windows, manual air conditioning, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a simple, straightforward design. Optional extras, depending on the package selected, could include alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system, and body-colored door handles and mirrors. The focus of this trim level was affordability, so luxury features were kept to a minimum. The interior was designed for practicality and durability, rather than outright comfort or style.
Chassis & Braking
The Myvi II utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and an independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were discs, while the rear brakes were drums – a cost-saving measure common in this segment. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was included as a standard safety feature. The chassis was designed to be lightweight, contributing to the car’s fuel efficiency. Stabilizer bars were included to reduce body roll during cornering, improving handling stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Myvi II 1.3 was well-received in the Malaysian market as an affordable and reliable city car. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and practicality, but noted its lack of outright performance. Compared to the higher-spec Myvi II variants, the 1.3L offered a more budget-friendly option, appealing to a different segment of buyers. The 1.3L’s fuel economy was significantly better than that of the larger-engined models, making it a popular choice for daily commuters. Reliability was also a strong point, with the K3-VE engine proving to be durable and relatively trouble-free.
Legacy
The Perodua Myvi II 1.3 remains a common sight on Malaysian roads today. The K3-VE engine has proven to be remarkably durable, and many examples are still running reliably with proper maintenance. In the used car market, the Myvi II 1.3 is valued for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and ease of maintenance. While it may not offer the performance or features of more modern vehicles, it remains a practical and economical choice for those seeking a basic, reliable city car. The Myvi II 1.3 played a crucial role in establishing Perodua as a dominant force in the Malaysian automotive industry, and its legacy continues to be felt today.
