Priced between RM 38.6k-49.5k, 2023 D74A Perodua Axia is up to 13% pricier than before but loaded with more features

On the same day Perodua announced that bookings for the 2023 D74A Perodua Axia are open, the second Malaysian carmaker also just announced the tentative prices. The next-gen Axia is estimated to be priced between RM 38,600 and RM 49,500 (without insurance, OTR West Malaysia).

• 1.0 G - RM 38,600
• 1.0 X - RM 40,000
• 1.0 SE - RM 44,000
• 1.0 AV - RM 49,500

The D74A Axia is offered in four variants which are the G, X, SE, and AV. It is also two variants fewer compared to the outgoing generation. Prices shown above are tentative.

Compared to their respective outgoing variants, the D74A Axia's estimated prices are between 11-13% higher. Just for comparison, the outgoing Axia 1.0 G starts from RM 33,490 while its upcoming equivalent is estimated to start from RM 38,600 which is around RM 5,000 more.

Also read: Remember the Perodua X Concept? Something we found, do you think it could be the next-gen Axia?

Meanwhile, the top-of-the-range D74A AV is just a smidge below RM 50,000 while its outgoing equivalent is priced at RM 43,190. The highest-spec D74A  Axia's tentative price puts it very close to the price of the Myvi 1.3 G (with PSDA) which starts from RM 48,500.

As shocking as that might sound considering this is the entry-level Perodua model, the price increase is due to a few factors. Inflationary pressure is driving up the cost of raw materials but Perodua is absorbing all increases in cost. Hence, the price increase is purely due to an increase in size (more metal) and features.

Also read: Next-gen D74A 2023 Perodua Axia: Feb debut with DNGA platform, 6 airbags, D-CVT

Some enhanced features on the D74A Axia include LED headlights, a 7-inch multi-info display, electronic stability control (ESC) as standard, the Perodua Smart Drive Assist (PSDA) ADAS suite, as well as up to 6 airbags. It also has a claimed fuel consumption of up to 27.4 km/L.

Also read: Specs for D74A 2023 Perodua Axia - Here's what we know so far

The D-CVT automatic transmission is the sole gearbox available for the all-new Axia for now but contrary to what was previously speculated, the manual transmission isn't dropped. In fact, Perodua announced at a recent press conference that the D74A MT would be launched much later. Good news for our driving schools, then.

Also read: Even Japanese driving schools don’t use Kei cars, is our Perodua Axia even good enough?

However, the naturally-aspirated 1.0-litre 1KR-VE 3-pot from the outgoing Axia continues on. Sorry, aspiring Axia Turbo fans.

Also read: Trial production started for 2023 D74A Perodua Axia - No more 5MT, D-CVT only, same 1.0L NA as before

Another variant that is omitted from the all-new Axia’s lineup is the Axia Style. The jacked-up Axia has its fair share of criticisms over some lack of features but it’s also fairly popular with buyers that are charmed by the "crossover" look. Given the latter, perhaps it’s too early to say that it’s discontinued.

Also read: Used Perodua Axia from RM17k - Is even more affordable equivalent to even better value?

The all-new Axia would be a complete revamp of its predecessor with plenty of features but offers the same efficiency. Could these price increases stave off new buyers looking for their first car purchase?

Also read: D74A 2023 Perodua Axia: Bookings opened, 6 airbags, VSC standard