If you’re in the market for a used entry-level sedan that still qualifies for a loan, our in-house clairvoyant predicts that your shortlist will likely comprise the Proton Saga and Perodua Bezza.
It’s easy work to see why this pair isn’t just the top two choices but likely the only two as well. Priced around the RM30k mark and with plenty of practicality, that’s plenty of bang for the buck.
On paper, it’s easy to assume the duo would be going neck-to-neck, what with both having naturally aspirated 1.3-liter engines and 4-speed automatic transmissions driving the front wheels together with relatively identical levels of equipment.
However, they both appeal to very different demographics and further inspection reveals plenty of traits unique to either one. The reason behind this lies with Proton and Perodua both adopting completely different preferences in the development of each model.
For this comparison between the Saga and Bezza, we’ll forgo looking at the engine performance as they’re pretty evenly matched.
Proton Saga
Pros – Ride and handling, comfort.
Cons – Thirsty on fuel, not as spacious.
Is the Proton Saga More Affordable?
A cursory browse on CARSOME reveals that the pricing of a 2016 Proton Saga starts at around RM21,000. In comparison, a Bezza 1.3 of the same year starts at a staggering RM34,800. This covers the flagship variants or close to them. When it comes to the price of a Proton Saga vs Perodua Bezza, the Saga wins by being the most affordable by a mile.
Affordability is a major factor when deciding to purchase a used entry-level sedan, and in all honesty, a smaller budget is the primary reason people go for used. Considering that the Saga has depreciated the most between the two, you can be more certain that you won’t lose as much should you decide to sell it down the road.
Interior of the Proton Saga Premium
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Get the Proton Saga for Its Handling
Another factor that the Saga can’t be disputed in is the ride and handling. Protons are famed for their impressive handling and the Saga hasn’t been left out. For the money you fork out, the little sedan can really run rings around the Bezza. Furthermore, comfort also leans in favor of the Saga. While the cabin isn’t as spacious as the Bezza, it is a much nicer ride on the road.
Saga Fuel Consumption
One important aspect to consider when buying a used Proton Saga is the transmission. If you’re going for an automatic Saga and your budget allows, try to go for a 2019 or newer unit that carries the much more refined Hyundai-sourced 4-speed torque converter transmission.
Units prior to that came with the Punch CVT (continuously variable transmission) which was not as good and contributed to higher fuel consumption figures.
This brings us to the Saga’s downside. When looking at the Bezza vs Saga fuel consumption, there’s one clear winner. Real-world figures place the Bezza ahead when it comes to sipping fuel.
Bezza owners reported an average fuel consumption of around 6.0 to 6.7 L/100 km though some owners have reported achieving 5.0 L/ 100 km at times as well. On the other hand, Saga owners returned an average fuel consumption closer to the 7.0 L/100 km mark.
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Perodua Bezza
Pros – Better creature comforts, fuel-efficient.
Cons – Jarring ride, fixed steering column.
Excellent Fuel Consumption in the Bezza
Perodua and fuel efficiency are pretty much synonymous. They know how to develop an engine that sips fuel. The sophisticated dual VVT-i engine in the Bezza is lightweight and compact enabling it to leave the ancient Campro VVT mill in the Saga in its fumes.
Coupled with features such as Eco Idle (auto start/stop) and a curb weight very much on the lighter side, it’s little surprise the Bezza is king at the petrol pumps.
Bezza’s Interior Equipment Wins
In the cabin, the Bezza is a much more well-equipped machine. You’ll find keyless entry and push-start that might seem menial on paper but can make the ownership experience much more pleasant. The range-topping Bezza 1.3 AV has full leather seats while the Saga 1.3 Premium has semi-leather with fabric seats. Additionally, the Bezza has a front center armrest while the Saga doesn’t.
Besides the interior equipment, the Bezza has abundant cabin space that stretches into the boot space. As a comparison, the Bezza’s boot space is 508 L while the Saga’s boot space is 420 L.
Interior of a Perodua Bezza AV
Bezza vs Saga Safety Features
In terms of safety, both the Bezza and Saga are quite evenly matched. The Perodua Bezza 1.3 X and AV variants both have ABS with EBD, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRC), Brake Assist (BA), and Hill-Start Assist (HSA), while only the AV has Perodua’s Advanced Safety Assist (A.S.A) 2.0.
The Proton Saga has all the same basic safety features as the Bezza, though they’re available on more variants; the Saga Standard AT, Premium, and Premium S. With the exception of A.S.A 2.0 on the Bezza AV, you can get the same safety features at a significantly lower price by choosing the Saga.
Some Perodua Bezza Downsides
However, no car is perfect and the Bezza loses out on the road to the Saga’s stellar ride and handling. Many have pointed out the Bezza’s crashy ride, especially those that have taken a ride in one courtesy of ride-sharing apps.
Lastly, the Bezza’s architecture comes from the Axia and this means it loses out on an adjustable steering column, which the Axia isn’t equipped with as well.
Proton Saga vs Perodua Bezza Conclusion
As you can see, there’s a distinct difference in the type of buyers for each model. Those with a family and who go on frequent road trips with more luggage will likely need something more spacious and easier on the wallet to run, favoring the Bezza.
However, someone who wants something a little fun to drive without much need for extreme practicality will favor the Saga.
Weigh up the pros and cons before deciding but keep in mind the Saga of an equivalent year will always be priced lower than the Bezza and if budget is the primary deciding factor, there’s your answer.
If you’re looking for a quality pre-owned car, check out CARSOME today. You can also download our app and browse our large inventory at your fingertips!
This content was originally published on 29/12/2022. It has been updated for freshness, accuracy, and comprehensiveness.
