I’ve been through the car-shopping dilemma more than once, and one of the biggest debates in my head (and probably yours too) was 5 seater vs 7 seater SUV. At the same time, I couldn’t ignore the allure of sleek sedans – especially since Malaysia has some amazing options, including models from our very own Perodua.
5 Seater vs 7 Seater SUV – My Real-Life Comparison
When my family was smaller, a 5-seater SUV felt perfect. Compact enough for city driving, easier to park in tight KL malls, and still had a good boot space for grocery runs or short trips. SUVs like this give you the elevated driving position we all love without feeling like you’re steering a bus.
But when my extended family started tagging along for balik kampung trips, I realised why people swear by 7-seater SUVs. That extra row makes a world of difference – no more squeezing kids in the back seat or playing Tetris with luggage. On the downside, a 7-seater is bulkier, thirstier on fuel, and sometimes that third row eats into boot space.
For me, it boiled down to lifestyle. If most of your driving is in the city with the occasional weekend getaway, a 5-seater SUV is enough. But if you often carry more than five people, especially for long trips, the comfort of a 7-seater can’t be beaten.
And yes, Perodua has options that hit the sweet spot for Malaysian families – practical, affordable, and built with our roads in mind.
Top 10 Sedan Cars in Malaysia – From My Test Drives and Research
While SUVs are all the rage, sedans still have my heart when it comes to comfort and fuel efficiency. After a lot of test drives, chats with other owners, and some good old online research, here’s my personal pick for the top 10 sedan cars in Malaysia (not ranked, because each shines in its own way):
1. Perodua Bezza – Our national pride. Affordable, fuel-efficient, and surprisingly spacious for a compact sedan. Perfect for first-time buyers or daily commuters.
2. Honda City – Smooth drive, modern tech features, and a refined interior.
3. Toyota Vios – Reliable, durable, and great for long-term ownership.
4. Proton Persona – Great value for money, with improved build quality over the years.
5. Mazda 3 – Sporty styling with a premium interior feel.
6. Nissan Almera – Comfortable ride and good safety features.
7. Hyundai Elantra – Stylish and well-equipped with modern tech.
8. Kia Cerato – Spacious and comes with a solid warranty.
9. Volkswagen Jetta – European feel with a punchy drive.
10. BMW 3 Series – For those wanting a luxury touch without going too big.
My Verdict
If you’re like me, you’ll probably weigh the 5 seater vs 7 seater SUV decision against your family size, driving habits, and budget. But don’t forget that sedans still offer unbeatable value and comfort, especially with brands like Perodua giving us reliable, affordable options made for Malaysian roads.
Personally, I keep coming back to Perodua for the peace of mind – low running costs, easy servicing, and designs that just work for our daily lives. Whether it’s a sedan like the Bezza or an SUV like the Aruz, there’s something for everyone.
FAQs
Q: Which is better for fuel economy – a 5 seater or 7 seater SUV?
A: Generally, 5-seaters consume less fuel because they’re lighter and smaller.
Q: Is a sedan still worth buying in Malaysia?
A: Absolutely. Sedans are comfortable, fuel-efficient, and often more affordable than SUVs.
Q: Why choose Perodua?
A: Perodua offers great value, reliability, and designs suited for Malaysian driving conditions.
Q: Are 7 seater SUVs hard to park in the city?
A: They can be trickier in tight spots, but parking sensors and cameras make it manageable.
Q: Which Perodua models are best for families?
A: The Perodua Aruz (7-seater SUV) and Perodua Bezza (sedan) are excellent for different needs.
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