Perodua Myvi Lux EZi Automatic 5dr Car Review - February 2012

The driving experience is probably the biggest problem to be found with the Myvi, and the steering is very light, but does respond very accurately to the instruction of the driver. However, the handling itself is badly affected by the suspension that is comfortable over some parts of the road, with larger bumps sending the car bouncing up. The lack of grip is also an issue, and taking corners at speed will be a risk worth avoiding. There is enough adjustment in the front of the car to ensure that the vast majority of drivers can find a comfortable driving position.

In terms of the engine performance of the Myvi, it is a little sluggish but is reliable enough to get people from A to B reliably. The acceleration from 0-62mph is a sluggish 13.0 seconds, and the top speed of 102mph is a little lower than many of its competitors. However, most other cars with these performance figures can usually boast a much greater fuel performance than the Myvi can deliver.

The Myvi has not been ripping up any trees in terms of the design, but it is attractive enough to be passable on the road, and the winged logo on the front of the car is reminiscent of a much more prestigious brand. The Myvi does have a slightly boxy look to it, but the spoiler over the rear window helps to reduce this, and the thick rear bumper also improves the look at the back of the car. This version of the Myvi comes with alloy wheels as standard, which certainly makes the overall impression of the Myvi much more favourable.

In terms of the levels of equipment to be found here, even with the improvements provided by the Lux trim it is still a little sparse. Air conditioning and electric windows throughout the car are included, as is a CD player and electric mirrors. One oddity is the option of a rear parking sensor, which really shouldn't be necessary on a car as small as the Myvi.

One aspect which is very positive from the Myvi is that it is quite a practical car. The space to the front and rear is quite surprising, and the boot is a decent size as well. This is certainly a car that is designed for urban and suburban travel rather than motorway driving, and could become uncomfortable on a long journey.

The Myvi was created in association with Toyota, which bodes well for the reliability, and so far there are no major issues with that aspect of the car. One concern is the level of safety equipment, with only driver and passenger airbags available. No ESP or traction control also add to the feeling that cutbacks have been made.

This version of the Myvi with Lux trim and automatic gearbox is priced at £8,099, which is a remarkable price in the current market, but the most basic models are available for under £7,000. Many of the competitors are more expensive, but do offer a more rounded package.

In terms of the running costs, fuel efficiency for the Myvi isn't impressive, with the 1.3 litre engine only able to achieve an average 44.1mpg. The insurance group is also higher than would be expected, and depreciation is significant with this type of car. The warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles, and it also has a two year roadside breakdown cover.