Perodua Kelisa (2002 - 2008) GXi 5d (2002/52) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Most people say 'whats that?' so maybe that I like to drive something different, probably that im really tight though cos it looks tiny and the styling is quite old.

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

Most have been very complimentary, they think its very economical (my dad struggles to get 50 out of his i10) and most people are impressed with its compact dimensions but still being reasonable comfortable to travel in.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes, its so cheap to buy, fun to drive and is different. Its also very reliable. I want to keep this one for as long as possible, but if I needed a second commuter car I would buy another of these.

What are you likely to buy next?

My dream is a Renault Avantime, depends on job i get. Would also consider a Fiat Seicento if I needed to commut not too far as you can pick those up so cheap and they are cheapest to insure.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£1,500

When did you buy the car?

April 2010

Did you get a good deal and why?

Yes, car was not advertised for sale, was their own runaround/courtesy car. Paid £1500 with only 37k, 2 new front tyres, major service 9 months tax and MOT and 6 month warranty.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

It's uncommon, cheap and really economical. Bought this specific one because it was for sale locally when I needed it.

What was the dealer like?

Very friendly and helpful, but a bit disorganised. They had lost the service history and manual, I was not too bothered but asked for a manual, it took over 6 months before they sent me a photocopy (as agreed). Sorted out a HPI issue, came up as written off, they contacted the company and it turned out it had been a typo and should have been a peugeot (so someones unkowingly driving a wrecked pug!) they gave me a new HPI certificate.

What's it like to drive?

Really fun, its not very refined over about 55, but living in Norfolk is so fun shooting round B-roads. Long journeys are possible, we regularly drive down to Devon, but tend to stick to about 58mph for economy and noise reasons, also, above 65 steering gets light. However seats lack support after about 1hr and you cannot tilt the back to an upright position. Fuel consumption (actua figures): Minimum:45 Maximum:63 (we got 480miles on 1 tank with 1 gallon left!) we usually get 50-55 on mixed driving

What's it like to park?

Excellent. all round visibility is great, power steering is light, but has enough feel (i dont like the new cars with 'city' modes, you just dont know where the wheels are) and the turning circle is one of the best, I often surprise myself with the sapces i fit into!

Have you had any problems with the car?

yes, the interior light didnt go out when door was closed, caused battery to drain over 5 days, turned out to be a faulty door switch, dealer fixed for free. they also attempted to fix a connection issue with the temp guage, but didnt, but its quite rare it happens anyway (just shows it cold). Also exhaust went, but not surprising given age of car.

What's most practical about your car?

Probably parking, but although it is small its boot is not a bad size and the 5 drs mean rear access is good. My fiancées 6' brothers can fit in the back behind me (5'7") in reasonable comfort.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The heated seats i fitted myself, but as standard the only luxuries are front electric windows and central locking, which i consider really useful (you dont get them on the base EXi). I think the fact that the mirror is only adjustable from the outside with your hand is really quirky too, its also not a problem (actually can be easier)