Viva looks all grown up next to Perodua Kelisa. In addition to the increased length and height, Viva wears a well-proportioned, neat styling that is current and mini-Myvi-like. Yes, there is none of Kelisa's cuteness, but we think most Malaysians are ready for a styling change, especially one for the better. Not as fun as Perodua Kelisa to drive, but still Viva handles safely and predictably. Viva's tight turning circle and light power steering mean city driving and parking are a breeze. The slight mass lends Viva a nimble feel, although pronounced body roll steps in through bends, reminding the driver that Viva is no hot-hatch. Push hard around corners, and Viva predictably understeers and struggles for grip. The steering could use more feedback, too. The 660 cc and 850 cc miss out on power steering. Despite Viva's light-weight, ride quality is compliant as the soft suspension copes well with road imperfections. Viva feels planted enough at cruising speeds, but be prepared for quite some engine, wind and road noise. But to be fair, direct rivals suffer from the same lack of noise insulation. The steering column is fixed for all Viva trims, but all 1.0-litre trims have seat height adjuster. Seats are comfy, while controls are well-positioned and easy-to-use, but the buttons on the CD-player are rather fiddly. There is an obvious improvement over Perodua Kelisa in terms of the build quality, as can be seen from the fine fit-and-finish throughout. Expectations of the material quality must be adjusted accordingly (to the price), and by that yardstick, cabin plastics are of a reasonable quality. Based on the previous generation Daihatsu Mira, and using familiar engines, Viva should have little problems with its underlying mechanics. A total of three 3-cylinder DOHC engines, 660 cc, 850 cc and 1.0-litre, are available for selection. All three have been in use but are updated with DVVT (Dynamic Variable Valve Timing) and EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection). There is a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic, but the latter is only available with the 1.0-litre. On the roads, the 60 bhp 1.0-litre needs to be worked hard to reach speed. The automatic would further compromise the performance. The 47 bhp 660 cc and 52 bhp 850 cc feel too underpowered for use and should be avoided. This is one area which Viva has vastly improved on over its predecessor, Perodua Kelisa. Viva benefits from the same space-efficient interior engineering seen in Perodua Myvi. With a longer cabin than in Myvi, Viva provides excellent head- and leg-room for front and rear occupants. But fitting three at the rear is too tight for comfort. Ingress and egress are comfortable as the doors open up to 90 degrees. Boot capacity stands at 149 litres and increases to 449 litres with the rear seats down. Viva 1.0-litre automatic has a claimed fuel economy of 15.1 km/litre, 1.0-litre manual at 17.5 km/litre, 850 cc manual at 17.4 km/litre, and 660 cc manual at 18.7 km/litre. Servicing and repairs should be highly affordable. Of the running costs, depreciation represents the greatest concern. Despite Viva's fine reputation as an able, reliable car, the sheer number of Vivas on the resale market will suppress resale prices. Viva is about as cheap a car you can get after Perodua Kancil. Compared to Perodua Kelisa, its predecessor, Viva feels grown up and better in almost every area. Kelisa is cuter-looking and more fun to drive, but Viva is more comfortable, roomier and more frugal, and remains easy to drive around city. In short, Viva brings excellent value for the money as a city car. 660 cc makes do with 12-inch steel wheels and radio-CD player with front door speakers. But misses out on fabric door trim, power windows or power steering. 850 cc adds medium instead of standard grade seat cover material, rear door speakers and power windows. 1.0-litre SX and EZ add 13-inch steel wheels, body skirting, door visor, fabric door trim, power steering and seat-height adjuster. 1.0-litre SXi and EZi add 14-inch alloy wheels, rear spoiler, high grade seat cover material, seat belt anchor adjuster, reverse sensor, dual SRS airbags and ABS with EBD. By virtue of its relatively low weight and the use of small engines, Viva is much “greener” compared to many heavier, more powerful cars on our roads. Preferring to shift gears yourself via the manual transmission will further lower the carbon dioxide emissions and improve fuel economy.