SUV has made it into most Malaysian’s favourite car list. To fulfil the demand of the Malaysia market, you can start seeing many car brands vying for the title of the best SUV in Malaysia.
I don’t know about you, but the sheer amount of marketing noise is enough to make me feel intimidated when I’m trying to choose the best SUV in Malaysia.
As an average consumer, buying an SUV is not a small decision. I feel your worries, which is why our team of experts have tested and made a review of many SUVs. Besides, we have also gathered users’ and buyers’ comments and reviews about all these SUVs. After some analysis, we have made a list with 10 options for you to choose.
10 Best SUV Cars in Malaysia Compared: Prices, Specs, and Reviews
- Toyota Harrier: A multipurpose SUV that offers comfort and agility for urban and off-road terrains and is renowned for its luxury and performance blend.
- Proton X90: Proton X90 is the next new car from X70. X90 provides its users with a spacious and roomy feel, and it can comfortably fit up to 7 adults.
- Proton X70: The X70, Proton’s first-ever SUV, was introduced with a focus on comfort, amenities, and affordable prices in the Malaysian market. It has a luxury design and can accommodate five passengers.
- Honda CR-V: The Honda CR-V, a standard in the SUV market, is praised for its comfort, dependability, and cutting-edge technology that makes driving a breeze.
- Mazda CX-5: The Mazda CX-5, built in Malaysia, is a top pick among SUV aficionados because of its innovative features and sporty design.
- Perodua Ativa: A small SUV made by Perodua, a well-liked automaker in Malaysia, renowned for its affordability, usefulness, and contemporary style geared toward urban users.
- Nissan X-Trail: The X-Trail is a family-oriented SUV known for its roomy interior, cutting-edge safety equipment, and ability to handle paved roads and rough terrain.
- Hyundai Kona: The Kona is a small SUV with a zesty personality that appeals to younger drivers with its distinctive style, cutting-edge technology, and effective performance.
- Toyota Rush: The Toyota Rush, a seven-seater SUV, is popular among families because it combines size, dependability, and efficiency.
- Lamborghini Urus: The Urus is a “Super SUV” that combines luxury and performance. It redefines the SUV class with its impeccable power, unrivalled speed, and distinctive Lamborghini styling.
1. Toyota Harrier
Toyota Harrier is one of the best SUVs in Malaysia. The company demonstrates its commitment to innovation and design.
Equipped with features that are not just luxurious but also functional, the Harrier boasts design elements like the Bi-LED headlamp, rear LED combination lights, and an auto-retractable wing mirror with an LED signal lamp and welcome Light.
Additionally, convenience is its primary consideration, evidenced by the inclusion of a Kick-sensor Power Back Door.
While there’s much competition in the SUV market, the Toyota Harrier has stood out and become one of the best SUVs in Malaysia based on its advanced features, commitment to safety, and Toyota’s reputation for producing reliable vehicles.
Toyota Harrier Review
We have collected some comments from various platforms, and the keyword “smooth driving experience” is commented on by most of the Toyota Harrier owners.
Aside from the smooth driving experience, the cabin size, innovative features, and passenger experience also achieve a high rating.
If you are comfortable with the price of around RM300 thousand, Toyota Harrier 2023 is the best option for you.
| Price | RM274,000 – 2.0 Luxury |
| RM277,000 – 2.0 Luxury SE | |
| Engine | 16-valve DOHC |
| Cylinder(s) | 4 Cylinders, In-line |
| Transmission | Direct Shift – CVT |
| Power | 171 Hp & 6,600 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm & 4,400-4,900RPM |
| Fuel Tank | 55 Litres |
| Boot Size | 396 Litres |
2. Proton X90
Proton X90 is a new member of the Proton SUV family. This vehicle is a contender for the “best SUV in Malaysia below 200k” title.
It is not only offered as an appealing alternative for those looking for a new SUV but is also tactically priced to provide outstanding value.
The Proton X90 has a more spacious interior than all the Proton SUV models, and it is the only Proton SUV model with more than 5 seats.
Proton X90 has the most advanced technology, such as online navigation, music streaming and weather forecast, smartphone connectivity, remote control via PROTON Link App, 7 USB Ports, and a wireless charger.
Proton X90 Review
Proton X90 has a striking exterior with various colours. Besides, most of the owners mentioned that they are attracted by its function, which is suitable for daily drives.
However, the increased road noise and inadequate thigh support in the front seats were the cons of the Proton X90, but the overall performance is worth the price.
| Price | RM123,800 – 1.5 Standard |
| RM130,800 – 1.5 Executive | |
| RM144,800 – 1.5 Premium | |
| RM152,800 – 1.5 Flagship | |
| Engine | 12V DOHC |
| Cylinder(s) | 3 Cylinders, In-line |
| Transmission | 7DCT |
| Power | 177 Hp & 5,500 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm & 1,500 RPM |
| Fuel Tank | 60 Litres |
| Boot Size | 257 Litres |
3. Proton X70
If you like Proton but the X90 is out of your budget, the Proton X70 might be your best SUV in Malaysia.
The features of the Proton X70 are worth its price since its price range is below 200k.
Just because it’s a local brand doesn’t mean that it’s of low quality.
You can expect all the fancy features in this what some would argue is the best SUV in Malaysia. These include the welcome lamps in the front door, LED daylights, a sunroof, leather seats, online navigation, 9 speakers, and a monitor via the PROTON Link App.
Yes, it has an app of its own. Long gone is the perception that Proton is rugged and dated.
Besides the modern design, the Proton X70 has an Advanced Driver Assistance System, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System and 360 camera with 3D display.
Proton X70 Review
Most owners mentioned that the Proton X70 has brought them noble, comfort and convenience with its sturdy build quality and impeccable fit. But the transmission feels sluggish and less exciting to drive than other SUVs.
| Price | RM98,800 – 1.5 Standard |
| RM110,800 – 1.5 Executive | |
| RM123,800 – 1.5 Premium | |
| RM128,800 – 1.8 Premium | |
| Engine | 12V DOHC |
| Cylinder(s) | 3 Cylinders, In-line |
| Transmission | 7DCT |
| Power | 175 Hp & 5,500 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm & 1,500 RPM |
| Fuel Tank | 60 Litres |
| Boot Size | 515 Litres |
4. Honda CR-V
One of Honda’s premier SUV models, the CR-V is renowned for its dependable performance, roomy interior, and cutting-edge safety features.
It’s not unexpected that the Honda CR-V may be regarded as one of the best SUVs in Malaysia, or even the best SUV in Malaysia below 200k, given its reputation for dependability and the value it provides.
The new CR-V has become larger, with less height to increase stability, and the exterior design has also become more contemporary and aggressive than the previous version.
The new CR-V has a 12-piece Bose audio system and a wireless smartphone charger. Besides, it has also increased the number of airbags.
Honda CR-V Review
Great performance is the tag of the Honda CR-V mentioned by the owners. They mentioned that the CR-V has plenty of power and stability when driving, and the interior is comfortable as well.
| Price | RM146,900 – 2.0 2WD |
| RM157,243 – 1.5 TC 2WD | |
| RM162,871 – 1.5 TC 4WD | |
| RM171,400 – 1.5 TC-P 4WD | |
| Engine | 16V DOHC |
| Cylinder(s) | 4 Cylinders, In-line |
| Transmission | G-Design CVT |
| Power | 190 Hp & 5,600 RPM |
| Torque | 243 Nm & 2,000 RPM |
| Fuel Tank | 57 Litres |
| Boot Size | 522 Litres |
5. Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 is a well-known compact crossover SUV praised for its elegant appearance, engaging handling, and cutting-edge technological features. Drivers can enjoy an amazing balance of adaptability, comfort, and sporty handling with the CX-5.
The Mazda CX-5 has attracted considerable interest in the Malaysian market and is frequently cited by many as the best SUV in Malaysia for its comprehensive blend of safety, style, and performance.
Mazda CX-5 Review
As the best SUV in Malaysia below 200k, the Mazda CX-5 was loved by many families due to the seamless driving experience.
Whether it’s daily commuting, weekend adventures, a grocery run, or family vacations, its performance and features like massage functions and climate control add an extra rating to this vehicle.
| Price | RM138,000 – 2.0G Mid |
| RM156,000 – 2.0G High | |
| RM169,000 – 2.5G High | |
| RM183,000 – 2.5G Turbo | |
| Engine | 16V DOHC |
| Cylinder(s) | 4 Cylinders, In-line |
| Transmission | SkyActiv-Drive with Manual Shift and Sport Mode |
| Power | 228 Hp & 5,000 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm & 2,000 RPM |
| Fuel Tank | 56 Litres |
| Boot Size | 442 Litres |
6. Perodua Ativa
Aside from Proton, we also have another synonymous brand: Perodua.
Perodua Ativa is contending head-on with the other brand for the best SUV in Malaysia below 200k, and it seems to have a winning chance.
Perodua Ativa has great performance and features. Although it is only 1.0cc, Ativa has a turbo version for you, and you can choose the version based on your needs.
For SUV models below RM80k, Ativa has a 9’ display screen, 6 airbags, vehicle stability control, emergency stop signal, ABS & EBD, and ISOFIX Child Seat Anchors. All the features and the price were worth it for a family to use daily.
Perodua Ativa Review
As the best SUV in Malaysia below 200k, the Perodua Ativa was praised for the overall experience of driving, and the interiors are spacious and comfortable. It has modern tech and driving aids and is enough to be a great family car.
| Price | RM67,300 – 1.0L Turbo H |
| RM 72,600 – 1.0L Turbo AV | |
| Engine | 12V DOHC |
| Cylinder(s) | 3 Cylinders, In-line |
| Transmission | D-CVT |
| Power | 97 Hp & 6,000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm & 2,400 RPM |
| Fuel Tank | 36 Litres |
| Boot Size | 369 Litres |
7. Nissan X-Trail
Nissan X-Trail is a popular SUV model produced by Nissan. There have been many comments suggesting that it is the best SUV in Malaysia for its ability to tackle any terrain.
It is equipped with 6 airbags, stability and traction control and ADAS. Besides, the Nissan X-Trail was awarded a 5-star safety rating from ANCAP.
Besides the features, the Nissan X-Trail has the biggest boot size than other SUV models. If you are looking for a comfortable and big boot-size SUV for your family trip, you should consider getting yourself one Nissan X-Trail.
Nissan X-Trail Review
Many sing high praises for Nissan X-Trail’s 7 seats and comfortable ride quality. Besides, people also notice the excellence of its safety features, which also became its most selling point.
| Price | RM138,888 – 2.0L 2WD |
| RM161,888 – 2.0L Hybrid | |
| Engine | 16V DOHC |
| Cylinder(s) | 4 Cylinders, In-line |
| Transmission | XTRONIC CVT |
| Power | 169 Hp & 6,000 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm & 4,000 RPM |
| Fuel Tank | 60 Litres |
| Boot Size | 550 Litres |
8. Hyundai Kona
The number of Hyundai Kona may be less than other SUV models on the road. But don’t be fooled, as popularity is not the sole indicator of the best SUV in Malaysia.
Kona has a modern exterior and interior design and various colours for customers. Besides, Kona has 3 drive modes – ECO, Sport and normal – for the customer to handle different environment needs.
Moreover, Kona is available in 2 versions: the fuel-powered and eco-friendly electric variants. If you belong to one of those pioneering groups that advocates electric vehicles, the Hyundai Kona could be your best electric SUV.
Hyundai Kona Review
Great driving performance is the tag for Kona, and most of the owners are satisfied with its driving experience, such as a stable, quiet ride and outright posh, roomy interior. You can spend less money with the Hyundai Kona but enjoy all the features I mentioned and the turbo mode.
| Price | RM124,188 – 2.0 |
| RM141,328 – 2.0 Active | |
| RM150,888 – 1.6 Turbo | |
| RM161,388 – 1.6N Line | |
| Engine | 16V DOHC |
| Cylinder(s) | 4 Cylinders, In-line |
| Transmission | 7-speed Dual Clutch |
| Power | 175 Hp & 5,500 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm & 1,500 RPM |
| Fuel Tank | 50 Litres |
| Boot Size | 361 Litres |
9. Toyota Rush
Toyota Rush is another Toyota SUV model popular in Malaysia. Compared to the Toyota Harrier, the price of Rush is more affordable for the public, and it provides 7 seats as well.
Rush provided 6 airbags, a Pre-Collision System, and a Blind Spot Monitor. Other safety features include a rear Cross Traffic Alert, a Panoramic View Monitor, Parking Sensors, a Hill-start Assist Control, and a digital video recorder.
And the most important part is that Rush was awarded a 5-star safety rating from ANCAP!
Toyota Rush Review
The exterior of Rush has become more modern and eye-catching than the previous version. As one of the best SUVs in Malaysia below 200k, Rush has a roomy interior for 7 seats, and multiple cup holders are perfect for family use.
| Price | RM93,000 – 1.5G |
| RM97,000 – 1.5S | |
| Engine | 16V DOHC |
| Cylinder(s) | 4 Cylinders, In-line |
| Transmission | 4 Speed Automatic |
| Power | 104 Hp & 6,000 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm & 4,200 RPM |
| Fuel Tank | 45 Litres |
| Boot Size | 213 Litres |
10. Lamborghini Urus
The Lamborghini Urus, categorised as a “Super SUV”, was a luxurious SUV that excels in design, performance, and dynamics and can tackle any terrain.
Urus will change your view of traditional SUVs.
You can enjoy the ability to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in an eye-popping 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 305 km/h with spending RM1 million.
The interior design of Urus was spectacular. Its design is a combination of a sports car and a luxury electric SUV. If you love the speed and luxury interior design, you must have a look at Urus.
Lamborghini Urus Review
Obviously, Urus has a striking exterior and interior design. It also has impeccable performance in its engine, but the price, as you can already tell, is not accessible to the public or average consumers.
| Price | RM1,000,000 – 4.0L |
| Engine | 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 |
| Cylinder(s) | 8 Cylinders |
| Transmission | 8-speed ZF 8HP automatic |
| Power | 641 Hp & 6,000 RPM |
| Torque | 850 Nm & 2,250 RPM |
| Fuel Tank | 85 Litres |
| Boot Size | 616 Litres |
Conclusion
We have constructed the price lists, comprehensive reviews, and specs for all the popular SUVs. Many people may have different opinions on the best SUV in Malaysia because everyone has different requirements.
However, if you want to purchase the best SUV in Malaysia below 200k, the list in this article might be of great help to you.
