Proton Iriz Active still falls short of the Perodua Myvi on one crucial aspect

In just two years after the facelifted Proton Iriz was launched, it has received yet another nip and tuck. This time, the range-topper gets a crossover-like outfit called the Iriz Active. Is it enough to convince buyers from the Perodua Myvi? Let us compare the range-topping variants of both.

*Prices stated above are OTR without insurance, with SST rebate, valid until 31-December 2021

Powertrain

The Perodua Myvi gets a 1.5-litre Dual-VVTi engine, making 103 PS and 137 Nm of torque that is mated to a 4-speed automatic. Despite its modest figures, it gets up to speed at an ease due to its relatively nimble weight of 1,015 kg.

The Proton Iriz Active on the other hand, still carries on with the 1.6-litre VVT engine that makes 109 PS and 150 Nm of torque, mated to a CVT. Its output figures are higher than the Myvi’s but it is 170 kg heavier, at 1,185 kg. We understand that the CVT has been further improved, so we’ll reserve judgement on how the CVT drives for now.

Also read: Priced from RM 40k, 2022 Proton Iriz MC2 facelift launched alongside crossover-like Active

Interior

The Iriz Active gets a new 8-inch floating-style infotainment display with upgraded “Hi Proton” voice command that now controls the power windows and air-conditioning. From the looks of it, the Iriz has the superior infotainment system here.

As for the infotainment system in the Myvi, it looks and feels aftermarket. The user interface and graphics are no where near as appealing as the Iriz’s.

The Myvi's trump card is its interior packaging, the cabin feels much more spacious inside compared to the Iriz despite the smaller exterior dimensions.

Overall, the Myvi trumps in space as well as neat features like the anti-snatch hook, seat side pocket, and built-in toll reader. The Iriz has better seats and infotainment system, plus the bonus of an armrest.

Features

Both the Iriz Active and Myvi AV feature LED headlamps, but it’s worth noting that the Myvi offers it as standard across the range, compared to the Iriz which is only available in the Active variant.

On the safety front, both have 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, stability control, and traction control.

Crucially, where the Myvi pulls ahead is in the ADAS department. It features Advanced Safety Assist 2.0 (ASA 2.0) which includes Pre-Collision Warning and Braking, Front Departure Alert and Pedal Misoperation Control.

Proton still mentions that the Iriz is rated 5 stars by ASEAN NCAP, but the assessment was based on the previous 2017-2020 protocol. The new 2021-2025 methodology requires ADAS in order to receive the maximum 5 stars.

Ride and handling

The Proton Iriz has been praised for its ride and handling, and we fully expect the Iriz Active to live up to its reputation.

Taking the previous iteration of the Iriz as a reference, it rides with a level of sophistication the Myvi just can’t match. There’s a sense of firmness to it and yet, sharp edges are rounded off and the car settles quickly over bumps, remaining composure at all times.

The well-balanced chassis is also a confidence booster to drivers when going around corners, it’s easy to control and doesn’t get unsettled by undulations.

In the Myvi, the suspension setup is on the firmer side as well but it translates to a bumpier ride when going over pockmarked roads. Although it has to be said that the firmer setup gives better body control over the previous-generation Myvi. But it still can’t quite match the Iriz.

Driven in isolation, the Myvi’s ride and handling is alright. In the presence of the Iriz though, the difference is apparent and it’s perhaps the strongest selling point of the Iriz.

Fuel consumption

While we have yet to test the Iriz Active, we expect the Perodua Myvi to be the more fuel-efficient car here. Owners, who described their driving behaviour as gentle, have been reporting figures close to 6-litre/100 km in mixed driving conditions.

The 2019 Proton Iriz achieved 8.4-litre/100 km during our test. As the powertrain in the Iriz Active is largely similar to before, we don’t expect the fuel consumption figure to deviate significantly. Even with a new “Eco” mode, it needs to compensate for the taller body and larger wheels.

Also read: Old vs New – New 2022 Proton Iriz Facelift, what's new?

Conclusion

At RM 52,697, the Perodua Myvi AV offers an efficient powertrain, spacious interior with unique features, and ADAS. It just offers tremendous value. Its driving dynamics may not be inspiring, but as a car to take you from Point A to Point B, you simply can’t go wrong with the Myvi.

The Proton Iriz Active is a touch more expensive at RM 54,000 and it loses out on ADAS, fuel efficiency, and interior space. Where the Iriz Active redeems itself is in the ride and handling department, better infotainment system, and more comfortable seats.

Ultimately, the Iriz's facelift exercise hasn't given it the crucial update it needed - ADAS. On paper at least, the Perodua Myvi still has the upperhand. But we don’t drive on paper, so it’s best to give them both a try and then decide.

Also read:

2022 Proton Iriz Active: Costs RM 3.6k to maintain over 5 years/100k km, here's the breakdown

Perodua Myvi: Less than RM 3,200 to maintain it over 5 years/100,000 km