With the current economic downturn, not everyone has the financial capabilities to splurge on an expensive new car. Setting aside a budget of around RM 30,000, the logical choice is a brand-new Perodua Axia – a fuss-free little hatchback that is also relatively easy on the pocket.

But, for the same RM 30k budget, there is another interesting proposition, in the form of a used Proton Suprima S.

Used Proton Suprima S – If you want something sophisticated, but..

After all, when it comes to the Suprima S, almost every aspect of the car is worlds ahead of the little Axia.

Not only is the Suprima S considerably more comfortable than the Axia, owing to its multilink rear suspension, the former also offers better refinement levels. While the turbocharged Campro engine may not be winning any fuel efficiency awards against the Axia, it is still more refined than the Axia’s three-pot unit.

By the virtue of being a larger car, the Suprima S also offers more usable space within the cabin. Need to store something? The Suprima S has you covered with the numerous storage spaces within the cabin. There's a customary storage space in front of the gear lever, as well as a storage spot nestled within the arm rest. 

If boot space is a concern to you, you’ll be pleased to know that the Suprima S offers a 427-litre boot (VDA measurement), considerably more than the Axia’s 260-litre boot.

The Proton Suprima S also has a number of features not found on the Axia, such as LED daytime running lights, cruise control, side and curtain airbags, and an adjustable steering column (tilt only, no telescopic adjustment).

Also Read: Pros and Cons: Perodua Axia – The best car for young Malaysians?

Being a used car, you will need to set aside some budget for wear and tear parts. Do your due diligences and find for a trustworthy workshop so you won’t be spending more money than necessary.

The cost to maintain a Proton Suprima S also isn’t cheap, as mentioned in our used car buying guide. Workshops familiar with the Suprima S mentioned that the Body Control Module (BCM), fuse box, and turbocharger can fail. The infamous oil cooler hose (OCH) issue also affects the Suprima S.

Also Read: Used Car Guide: RM 20k for a used Proton Preve, should you consider it?

Finding for a well-maintained, non-modified Proton Suprima S is also rather tough, as not many units were sold during its six year lifecycle.

New Perodua Axia – Trouble-free motoring

A brand-new Perodua Axia, on the other hand, may not be as fancy or as tech-laden as the Suprima, but that’s where the appeal lies.

Seeing that the Axia has a naturally-aspirated three-pot engine, maintenance is pretty straightforward. In fact, despite its smaller fuel tank (33 litres vs 50 litres), the Axia offers more kilometers per refuel. So that’s good news for those who wants to maximize every drop of fuel.

Also Read: Review: 2020 Perodua Axia 1.0 AV – RM43k for a 1.0-litre engine?

In the rare chance that there’s something wrong with the Axia, you can always count on the manufacturer’s warranty – something that is could be an issue on the used Suprima S. 

Also Read: Warranty for used and recond cars; here’s what you need to know

As basic as the Axia’s four-speed automatic may be, it does its job well enough. It won’t whine or jerk like the Suprima’s CVT unit.

Conclusion – Are you after driving performance or peace-of-mind?

At the end of the day, ask yourself this: do you want driving performance or a fuss-free vehicle ownership experience? If it’s the latter, then the used car life may not be suitable for you. A brand-new Perodua Axia is your best bet.

But if you’re willing to tinker and learn a bit more about your car, then the used Proton Suprima S is definitely a compelling option. The Proton Suprima S is a decent purchase, though you have to do your homework before buying one.

With the MCO in full force, inspecting a used car physically is practically impossible. As such, if you want to buy a car online but want none of the risk associated with it, enter Carsome's Promise, which includes a 1-year warranty, Carsome Certified inspection, and a 5-day money back guarantee.

Also Read: Carsome's new used-car buying process has a 5-day money-back guarantee