The Perodua Myvi II 1.5, produced between 2011 and 2014, represents a significant iteration of Perodua’s popular city car. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Myvi II generation (internally designated as the M200), this variant aimed to balance affordability with a reasonable level of performance and features. The Myvi, since its introduction in 2005, had become a mainstay of the Malaysian automotive market, catering to first-time car buyers and families seeking a practical and economical hatchback. The 1.5L model, with its 103 horsepower output, offered a step up in performance from the base 1.3L engine, while remaining competitive in price against rivals like the Proton Savvy and imported compact cars.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Perodua |
| Model | Myvi |
| Generation | Myvi II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 (103 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.4 kg/Hp, 106.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.1 kg/Nm, 140.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 103 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 136 Nm @ 4400 rpm (100.31 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 3SZ-VE |
| Engine displacement | 1495 cm3 (91.23 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72 mm (2.83 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 91.8 mm (3.61 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 | 970 kg (2138.48 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l (10.57 US gal | 8.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 3685 mm (145.08 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, Internal Combustion engine |
| Drive wheel | 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 heart of the Myvi II 1.5 is the 3SZ-VE engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly to the intake ports. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, optimizing airflow for improved performance. The 3SZ-VE is a naturally aspirated engine, meaning it doesn’t rely on turbocharging or supercharging for increased power. The engine’s 103 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 136 Nm (100.31 lb-ft) of torque at 4400 rpm provided adequate power for urban driving and highway cruising, although it wasn’t designed for outright speed. The standard transmission for this variant was a five-speed manual gearbox, offering drivers a direct connection to the engine and allowing for precise gear selection. An optional four-speed automatic transmission was also available, catering to drivers prioritizing convenience over sporty driving dynamics.
Driving Characteristics
The Myvi II 1.5 with the manual transmission offered a reasonably engaging driving experience. The gear ratios were well-suited for city driving, providing sufficient acceleration from a standstill. However, the engine’s power output meant that overtaking maneuvers on the highway required careful planning. The automatic transmission, while convenient, resulted in a noticeable decrease in responsiveness and fuel economy. The suspension, tuned for comfort, absorbed bumps and imperfections in the road effectively, but also resulted in some body roll during cornering. Compared to the 1.3L variant, the 1.5L offered a more confident feel, particularly when fully loaded with passengers and cargo. It was a noticeable improvement over the base model, but still lagged behind competitors offering larger displacement engines.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Myvi II 1.5 typically came equipped with standard features such as power windows, power steering, and air conditioning. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, a CD player with MP3 compatibility, and keyless entry. The interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a simple and functional dashboard layout. Optional extras included a factory-fitted security alarm and upgraded audio systems. The 1.5 SE trim, a popular choice, often included body-colored door handles and side mirrors, adding a touch of visual appeal.
Chassis & Braking
The Myvi II utilized a McPherson strut suspension setup at the front, providing a comfortable ride and predictable handling. The rear suspension employed a torsion beam setup, which was cost-effective and space-efficient. The braking system consisted of disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard on the 1.5L variant, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The relatively lightweight construction of the Myvi helped to offset the limitations of the braking system.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Perodua Myvi II 1.5 was generally well-received by Malaysian consumers. Critics praised its affordability, practicality, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted the engine’s lack of refinement and the somewhat basic interior. Compared to the 1.3L variant, the 1.5L offered a significant improvement in performance, justifying the slightly higher price tag. Against competitors like the Proton Savvy, the Myvi II 1.5 offered a more spacious interior and a more comfortable ride. Fuel economy was competitive, averaging around 6.1 liters per 100 kilometers.
Legacy
The Perodua Myvi II 1.5 has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The 3SZ-VE engine is known for its longevity, and with regular maintenance, can provide many years of trouble-free service. In the used car market, the Myvi II 1.5 remains a popular choice, particularly among first-time car buyers and those seeking an affordable and economical city car. Parts availability is excellent, and maintenance costs are relatively low. The Myvi II 1.5 cemented the Myvi’s position as one of Malaysia’s most successful and beloved cars, and continues to be a common sight on Malaysian roads today.
