As of February 2025, the Perodua Rusa, which ceased production in 2007, is available exclusively in the used car market. Prices for pre-owned Rusa models vary based on factors such as condition, mileage, and year of manufacture. Recent listings indicate that prices range from approximately RM4,200 to RM15,800, with a median price of RM 5,500. Various listings provide examples, such as a 2001 Perodua Rusa 1.6 GX Van priced at RM 9,800 and a 2000 Perodua Rusa 1.3 EX available for RM 4,875.
Perodua Rusa was introduced as the first model by a Malaysian company, featuring three variations: CX (1.3-litre, two-seat), EX (1.3-litre, five-seat), and GX (1.6-litre, seven-seat), all powered by Daihatsu-origin engines. The vehicle’s dimensions include a length of 3,880 mm, width of 1,560 mm, and height of 1,845 mm, with a wheelbase of 2,080 mm. Sales data show a decline over the years, with peak sales in 2003 at 2,603 units and a significant drop by 2007 to 344 units. For those seeking a new vehicle with similar attributes, the Perodua Alza, starting at RM62,500, serves as a modern successor, offering updated features and improved efficiency.
Perodua Rusa Pricing
What Is the Perodua Rusa?
The Perodua Rusa is a cab-over microvan that was manufactured by the Malaysian automotive company Perodua from 1996 to 2007. It holds the distinction of being Malaysia’s first locally produced van, highlighting the nation’s growing automotive industry during that period. The Rusa is based on the Daihatsu Zebra platform and was designed to cater to both commercial and private transportation needs within Malaysia. It was introduced with a 1.3-litre engine, and a larger 1.6-litre variant followed shortly after, expanding its appeal to a broader market.
How Did the Perodua Rusa Evolve in Malaysia?
The Perodua Rusa debuted on March 6, 1996, and immediately captured attention with nearly 3,000 bookings on its launch day. Initially priced between RM 34,000 and RM 39,200, the Rusa offered a competitive option for those seeking a reliable and affordable vehicle. The model lineup included three variations: the CX, EX, and GX, each tailored to different user requirements. The CX model was designed primarily for cargo use, while the EX and GX models were aimed at private users, with seating capacities of five and seven, respectively. This versatility made the Rusa a popular choice among Malaysian families and businesses, as well as governmental bodies like the police and fire departments.
What Are the Specifications of the Perodua Rusa?
The Perodua Rusa came in three distinct variants: CX, EX, and GX. The CX featured a 1.3-litre, two-seat configuration focusing on cargo. The EX, with a 1.3-litre engine, offered five seats, while the GX, powered by a 1.6-litre engine, provided seating for seven passengers. All models were equipped with Daihatsu’s H engine family, ensuring reliability and performance.
Key specifications include:
- Wheelbase: 2,080 mm
- Dimensions: 3,880 mm in length, 1,560 mm in width, and 1,845 mm in height
- Curb Weight: Ranges from 935 kg to 1,145 kg depending on the model
- Engine Output: The 1.3-litre engine delivers 73 PS at 6,000 rpm, while the 1.6-litre engine produces 82 PS at 5,600 rpm
- Fuel Consumption: Approximately 12.7 to 13.2 km/L at a constant speed of 90 km/h
How Has the Perodua Rusa Been Positioned in the Market?
The Perodua Rusa was primarily marketed as an affordable and versatile vehicle suitable for both personal and commercial use. Its initial market positioning was bolstered by its competitive pricing and features that appealed to a wide range of consumers. The Rusa’s success can be observed through its sales figures, with notable peaks in 2000 and 2003, selling 2,341 and 2,603 units, respectively.
Over the years, the Rusa maintained a steady presence in the Malaysian automotive market, though it faced increasing competition from other models and brands. Its production eventually ceased in 2007, but the Rusa remains a popular choice in the second-hand market, valued for its reliability and functionality.
Why Did the Perodua Rusa Become Popular?
The Perodua Rusa is Malaysia’s first locally produced van. It symbolized national pride and the country’s growing automotive capabilities. Its affordability made it accessible to a large segment of the population, while its versatility appealed to both families and businesses. The Rusa’s ability to serve as both a passenger vehicle and a cargo transporter added to its appeal.
The Rusa’s design and reliable performance ensured its suitability for Malaysia’s diverse driving conditions. Its use by governmental bodies further enhanced its reputation as a trustworthy vehicle. The combination of these factors positioned the Rusa as a practical, reliable, and iconic choice for Malaysian consumers.
What Is the Legacy of the Perodua Rusa?
As the first van produced by a Malaysian company, Perodua Rusa set a precedent for future local automotive endeavors. The Rusa’s success showed the potential for domestic vehicles to compete with international brands, paving the way for future models from Perodua and other Malaysian manufacturers.
Even after its production ended, the Rusa’s influence persists in the second-hand market, where it remains a choice for those seeking affordable and reliable transportation. Its legacy is a proof to Malaysia’s industrial growth and the enduring impact of pioneering automotive models.