![\"\"](\"https:\/\/carsomemy.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp\/bezza%20vs%20saga%20cover.jpg\")
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The much anticipated Proton Saga was finally released to the grand and warm reception of all whom were in attendance last week. But of course to many, this is seen as the competition of the Perodua Bezza that was launched a few months earlier. With both cars aiming to cater, impress and please pretty much the same audience, we wondered, how would a new car-buying consumer pick between the two?<\/p>\n
So here we are again, without any controversial cross segment comparisons, putting it out there for you to decide; beginning with…<\/p>\n
Price<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Is there a price difference? Yes, there is a price difference around RM 5,000. The Proton Saga Premium, which is the highest spec for the model is priced at RM 45,800 while the Bezza Advance just tips the scale over the RM 50,000 thousand mark at RM 50,800. Just on price alone, the winner is clear.<\/p>\n Dimensions<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n Between the two, the Proton Saga is essentially 181 mm longer, 69 mm wider and 19 mm shorter<\/strong> than the Perodua Bezza. The wheelbase is also 10 mm longer than the Bezza. In theory, the centre of gravity is essentially better in this respect. In terms of comfort? We like them both and interior design is subjective to the individual. While it might not be a point for some, there is also an inch difference for both vehicle\u2019s rim size, with 15-inch 185\/55<\/strong> on the Proton Saga Premium and 14-inches 175\/65<\/strong> on the Perodua Advance.<\/p>\n Performance<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n In terms of output, they\u2019re identical. With a standard 1.3-litre engine, both are capable of an output of 94 horsepower<\/strong>. However, in terms of torque, the Bezza literally goes one up from the Saga by offering 1 extra Nm of torque more than the Saga\u2019s 120 Nm<\/strong>. On numbers its the same. The similarities on paper though, ends there. Until we do a test drive comparison, we’ll be able to tell which feels more refined, quieter and better overall. We’re somehow convinced though that the new Saga will have a better handling and a quieter cabin.<\/p>\n At 101 horsepower per tonne<\/strong>, it\u2019s noticeably higher than the Saga\u2019s 87 horsepower per tonne<\/strong>, which could be contributed by the 175 kg weight deficit it has over the Saga\u2019s 1,075 kilogram kerb weight. As such, in specifications alone, the Bezza would prevail between the two in terms of performance as it has to deal with less weight with the same amount of output.<\/p>\n In terms of transmission choices, this is where many would be subjective on the differences a CVT vs a conventional automatic has. But which is better? Technologically wise, the\u00a0benefits of a CVT transmission on the Saga trumps the traditional four-speed automatic on the Bezza.<\/p>\n The Bezza, as Perodua\u2019s first EEV sedan is claimed to be capable of 22 km\/litre<\/strong> which we assumed is a result of the Eco Idle System, essentially an Automatic Stop-Start system while the Saga, with Proton\u2019s Eco Drive Assist is capable of 18.5 km\/litre<\/strong> (converted from the claimed 5.4 litres\/100km).<\/p>\n Safety and Security<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n The necessity of keeping up with the times have definitely reflected on these two cars as they\u2019re both packed with driving aids that would give cars of a more superior segment a decent run for its money. A great two thumbs up for Proton and Perodua.<\/p>\n Both come with Dual Front Air Bags<\/strong>, ABS with EBD<\/strong>, Electronic Stability Controls<\/strong>, Brake Assist<\/strong>, Traction Control<\/strong>, Hill-Start Assist <\/strong>and ISOFIX<\/strong> for the little ones in the back seat. As for the grown-ups up front, the Saga only offers seat belt reminders for the driver while the Bezza\u2019s system is inclusive of the front passenger as well.<\/p>\n What we liked, that indicates Proton and Perodua are both moving with the times, is that not only are they equipped with rear sensors, they\u2019re also fitted with the same at the front. The rigidity of both the Saga and Bezza\u2019s shell have also been enhanced although in safety ratings, the Bezza has earned a 5-star ASEAN NCAP Safety Rating<\/strong>, 1 more than the 4 afforded to the Saga.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/carsomemy.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp\/saga%20bezza.gif\")
Here the size differences between the two can be seen in height and length which have been worked to proper dimensions.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/carsomemy.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp\/IMG_8897.2%281%29.jpg\")
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Credit: Perodua<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/carsomemy.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp\/IMG_8922.2%281%29.jpg\")
\nThe Saga Premium is provided with 15-inch rims as opposed to the Bezza Advance’s 14-inch.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/carsomemy.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp\/saga%20reverse%20cam%281%29.JPG\")
\nWhile the Bezza’s reverse camera is projected on the headunit, the Saga’s offers a different twist to the process by appearing in the rear-view mirror. How cool is that? Credit: proton-edar.com.my<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n