Perodua Kelisa (2002 - 2008) EX 5d (2007/07) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Nothing at all. It's a small silver car with 4 wheels and an engine. If you care what your car says about you buy something else. You may be seen as poor or tight for buying the cheapest car, but most people don't know what it is.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

I often get asked what sort of car it is, and then when I tell them I have to explain the Daihatsu connection. Some friends were surprised how nippy it felt to drive.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes. It's very good on petrol, quite good fun to drive and as cheap as you can get.

What are you likely to buy next?

Another Perodua. Possibly the Kelissa replacement that is based on the Daihatsu Charade, or even the Myvi if I get enough as a p/ex when I sell it, but I've got to pay for this one first.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

Yes

What price did you pay?

£4,592

When did you buy the car?

April 2007

Did you get a good deal and why?

I paid the full asking price, but the base model is incredibly cheap to start with so there's not much chance of negotiating a discount. The finance deal was reasonable and the usual extras such as mud flaps and floor mats come as standard. I think it was a reasonable price.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

It is the cheapest new car.

What was the dealer like?

So far the dealer has been very helpful and approachable. They have been trading from the same site for a long time, previously as a Nissan dealer, so I think it is likely they will be there for some time to come. The only other Perodua dealer locally also seems freindly.

What's it like to drive?

It handles very well. I haven't been able to make it lose grip at all despite driving with enthusiasm. The steering is light and direct so it's lovely along lanes and around tighter roads. The only time it feels a bit short of power is on long motorway hills, but how much of the time is spent on motorway hills anyway. Cruises happily at 80, quiet and comfortable.

What's it like to park?

Power steering and barely bigger than a mini. Great visibilty due to large windows. Couldn't be easier to park.

Have you had any problems with the car?

There has been a rattle from the exhaust, but apart from that nothing has gone wrong. For such a cheap car it is fantastic.

What's most practical about your car?

The back seat is very easy to fold down, and the boot opening is wider than a Fiat Panda, so despite it's small size it's quite easy to load up with gear.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

It would have to be the wind-up windows. It's refreshing to have something so simple and straightforward.