Owner reviews for the Perodua Kelisa
No edits, no filters—just real feedback from verified vehicle owners to help you make confident decisions.
Overall rating 5/5The Perodua Kelisa offers city-friendly motoring at a price that’s hard to ignore. Known for its simplicity, ease of use and low running costs, this compact car keeps ownership straightforward, so you can spend more time driving and less time worrying about maintenance.
No edits, no filters—just real feedback from verified vehicle owners to help you make confident decisions.
Overall rating 5/5If you want a basic, budget-friendly car, the Perodua Kelisa could be just what you're after. Designed to get you from A to B without fuss or frills, it became one of the cheapest new cars of its era. Sold in the UK from 2002 to 2008, it's light to drive, with a tight turning circle and exceptional fuel economy – perfect if most of your miles are in town. It won’t match rivals like the Daewoo Matiz or Suzuki Alto for interior polish, but the Perodua Kelisa earns points for being easy to park, inexpensive to buy and cheap to run. Its small size and straightforward mechanics mean there’s little to go wrong, which is why it’s often chosen as a first car or dependable urban runabout.
The Perodua Kelisa keeps safety straightforward, with many models equipped with twin front airbags. Side airbags and ABS are generally not included, reflecting the car’s budget-friendly design. While it may not match modern safety tech, it still offers basic protection – worth bearing in mind if you need to carry passengers regularly.
Every Perodua Kelisa comes with a reliable 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine, known for its excellent fuel economy. There are no diesel or hybrid variants, but you can choose between a manual gearbox or a simple automatic. All models feature front-wheel drive, making them easy to handle in town.
Technology is kept minimal to maintain affordability. Early versions include essentials like a heater, basic stereo and manual windows. Some higher-spec trims add central locking or electric windows, but overall, infotainment is basic compared with more recent city cars.
Official fuel economy figures range from 43 to 55 mpg, with many owners comfortably achieving around 50 mpg in everyday driving. The Perodua Kelisa also benefits from low vehicle tax, helping to keep running costs manageable.
Watch for rust, especially on older cars, so give the bodywork a careful look. It’s also wise to test all electrics, such as windows and lights, to make sure they work as they should. A full service history is ideal, and for added peace of mind, a professional inspection through The AA Vehicle Inspection is recommended.
Yes – when properly maintained, the Perodua Kelisa’s lightweight build and simple mechanics mean fewer things to go wrong. Many owners enjoy years of trouble-free driving, with major faults being rare when regular servicing is kept up.