Cosmetic Changes for Perodua Kelisa
Perodua’s MD, Tan Sri Abdul Rahman Omar, had said that after the Kembara DVVT, there would be nothing new till 2005 when a significant new model will be launched. However, that did not mean that Perodua would not continue on product development work (the growing R&D department still needs to be kept busy!).
Following the practice of making cosmetic changes about halfway through a model’s typical 5-year life-span, Perodua has brought out a facelifted Kelisa 26 months after its original launch in September 2001. In that time, some 75,000 Kelisas have been put on Malaysian roads and by end 2003, the cumulative number should be close to 83,000 units.
Feedback from the market guided the changes made for this latest version which has a more macho and sporty look. It has been clear that the car has appealed to younger motorists who enjoy its zippy nature so now they get looks to go with the character.
New bumpers are fitted front and rear, giving a wider appearance, especially with the slender wrap-around signal lights on the corners of the front bumper. The large air-scoop is also re-shaped but more noticeable is the new grille which has a honeycomb pattern (with the Perodua chrome ‘T-bar’ providing a highlight). The headlights are unchanged and thus retain their unique oval style.
The side mouldings are also new and as you move to the rear, there are minor changes here and there with the numberplate holder having a garnish. While the rear lighting units are unchanged, there are now reflectors embedded in the corners of the rear bumper.
On the roof is a ‘European style’ antenna which can be unscrewed or pushed down. Apparently, studies have shown that the position is the ideal for radio reception.
There are no mechanical changes but the wheels are a larger 14-inch size which should provide positive effects to ride and handling. Alloy rims with a new design are used for the Kelisa EZ while the Kelisa GX has full-sized wheel covers, also with a new design.
No major changes inside but like some of the new Peroduas, the meters now have white backgrounds – just like many sportscars. New fabrics are evident but the trim colours are still on the dark side. It might be nicer to have light colours to give a sense of spaciousness. In the interests of health, Perodua has installed an ionizer on the rear parcel shelf.
It is not unusual for anything new – even a facelifted model – to be accompanied by a new price… usually higher than before. However, Perodua has made a commitment to its customers not to raise its prices in the short-term and it can do this because it is pursuing cost-cutting very seriously. The aim is to bring costs down by 30% over a 3-year period which is by the end of 2004.
So the good news is that the new Kelisa costs the same as before, with prices starting from RM 36,228 and going up to RM40,497 (roadtax, insurance and accessories package included). Those who wish to enhance their ownership experience can also join KAPMA, the Perodua owners’ club, which has a joining fee of RM60 that covers the first year’s membership.
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