Used 1st-gen Perodua Axia: From RM 27k, it still makes a sensible city car choice

During its near decade of sale, the first-generation Perodua Axia served as the default city car for Malaysians whether it was their first new car purchase or just a secondary car. More than half a million were sold in the country and the first Axia is one of the most popular models in Malaysia and for Perodua too.

While the all-new D74A Axia is many leaps ahead of its predecessor, some might be a bit put off by the higher starting price. For those who wanted a used car that is still within their budget, a used Axia makes a lot of sense.

At the time of writing, CARSOME has a little over 100 units of the first-gen Axia on sale with prices starting from RM 27,000.

Overview

Replacing the Perodua Viva in 2014, the first-gen Perodua Axia was the entry-level Perodua model that immediately made an impact on Malaysians. Compared to its predecessor, the Axia brought out some much-needed features for most young buyers while being affordable for Malaysians in general.

6 variants were offered that were powered by a single engine option – a 1.0-litre 1KR-DE 3-cylinder that makes 67 PS/90 Nm. The non-DVVT unit was paired with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic.

Then in 2017 came the first update for the Axia when it sport a new look to keep in line with the newly-introduced Bezza. The first Axia facelift also saw the introduction of an improved 1.0-litre engine that came with DVVT. Power was boosted to 68 PS and 91 Nm.

Finally, in 2019, the second update of the Axia was introduced with the refresh gaining enhanced safety features in the form of ASA 2.0 on the highest AV variant as well as standard vehicle stability control (VSC) on most variants.

Speaking of variants, the 2019 update also saw the introduction of a new variant to the Axia’s line-up, the faux crossover-looking Axia Style.

Also read: Review: Perodua Axia 2019 Style - Stands out from the crowd, but is it enough?

Which variant to get?

If you’re seeking a used first-gen Axia, we suggest going for the post-2017 updated models instead of the initial pre-facelift ones. Aside from the DVVT engine that offers greater fuel economy, the post-2017 models offer better equipment in terms of safety and convenience features.

Also read: Looking for a used Perodua Axia? Forget the pre-facelift and get the post-2017 facelift instead

For that, the best-recommended variant of the post-2017 Axia would be the Axia AV with AEB which was introduced in 2019. This variant offers enhanced safety features with ADAS as standard. The next best variant though would be the 2017 Axia SE which offers 2 airbags, ABS, and VSC.

The 2017 facelift addressed some minor inconveniences from the first batch of the Axia including a button to disable the front parking sensors, smart entry, and a release handle on the boot lid instead of having to open from inside the car.

What are the common issues?

The Perodua Axia is generally fault-free like almost all Perodua models. It’s an affordable car when new and general maintenance is also friendly on your wallet.

However, the most common issue is the engine mountings that need to be replaced usually after the 100,000 km mark. It costs around RM 900 to have the three mountings replaced including labour.

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

With Malaysia being a warm climate, having good A/C is vital and as such do keep in mind when it is time to replace the condenser and cooling coil which can cost around RM 1,200.

Finally, there’s the usual tyre replacement and since the Axia uses skinny tyres as standard, replacing them when the time comes is also not too inexpensive. Do expect to spend around RM 150 apiece for a renowned brand.

Conclusion

The first-gen Perodua Axia is more of an appliance even with some added value features. But it’s nothing to fault for when the Axia does its job well transporting from A to B all the while returning some very good fuel mileage.

For less than RM 30,000, you’re getting a city car that is generally reliable and has enough room to carry more than just passengers. If you’re keen on getting a used Axia, CARSOME has a few units currently on sale and with its ongoing Raya campaign, you can get discounts of up to RM 8,000 along with a free 1 year-service and warranty when you purchase a car!