Can I Afford Kancil?

Kancil Price

In January 1995, the Perodua Kancil EZ was introduced with a price of RM28,931.14 for solid colors, RM29,838.14 for metallic versions, and RM30,214.00 for the mica version in Peninsular Malaysia. As production continued, various models and facelifts were released, with prices adjusted accordingly. For instance, in August 1996, the Kancil 850cc version was launched and priced slightly higher than the 660cc due to its larger engine and additional features. Over its production run until 2009, the Kancil remained an economical option for buyers, with its second-hand market prices today reflecting its status as a used vehicle, varying based on condition and mileage. As an example, listings for used Kancils range from approximately RM2,345 to RM7,800, reflecting its enduring appeal as a budget-friendly vehicle. Perodua Kancil was priced to appeal to cost-conscious consumers, with its fuel-efficient engine and compact size making it a practical choice for urban driving.

What Is the Perodua Kancil?

The Perodua Kancil is a compact city car produced by the Malaysian automotive company Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Sdn Bhd (Perodua). Launched in August 1994, the Kancil was the first vehicle produced by Perodua after its inception in 1993. It quickly became one of Malaysia’s most popular and affordable cars, known for its small size, fuel efficiency, and ease of maintenance. The Kancil is a rebadged version of the third-generation Daihatsu Mira, which is a common practice in Malaysia’s automotive industry, where local manufacturers often adopt designs from established models. The car was in production until July 2009, with over 722,223 units manufactured.

How Did the Perodua Kancil Evolve Over Time?

The Perodua Kancil’s evolution is marked by several facelifts and updates over its 15-year production span. Initially available with a 660cc engine and manual transmission, the Kancil underwent its first facelift in 1997, which included cosmetic upgrades such as a new grille and improved interior fabrics. In 1996, Perodua introduced the 850cc engine option, offering more power and an automatic transmission, which broadened its appeal.

The car saw another facelift in 2000, featuring body-colored moldings and updated bumpers. The most significant redesign occurred in 2002, when the Kancil received rounder headlights and taillights, a repositioned rear license plate, and a new dashboard design. Despite these updates, the Kancil maintained its core mechanical structure, emphasizing reliability and simplicity.

What Engine Options Were Available for the Perodua Kancil?

The Perodua Kancil offered several engine options, including the 659cc Daihatsu EF-CL single overhead cam three-cylinder engine producing 31 PS, and the 847cc Daihatsu ED-10 carbureted engine producing 37 PS. In its later years, the Kancil was available with an 847cc Daihatsu ED-DE fuel-injected engine producing 50 PS, exclusive to the 850 EZi variant. Transmission options included four-speed and five-speed manual gearboxes, as well as a three-speed automatic transmission for select models.

How Was the Perodua Kancil Priced?

The pricing of the Perodua Kancil was designed to make it accessible to the average Malaysian consumer. Upon its launch, the 660cc manual transmission models were priced around RM28,931.14 for solid colors, with slight increases for metallic and mica finishes. The introduction of the 850cc model saw prices ranging from RM24,833.74 to RM33,465.84, depending on the variant and features. Over its production life, the Kancil remained one of the most affordable vehicles in Malaysia, a key factor in its widespread adoption.

The popularity of the Perodua Kancil can be attributed to several factors. Its compact size made it ideal for urban driving and easy parking, while its fuel efficiency appealed to cost-conscious consumers. The Kancil also became a favorite among new drivers and driving schools due to its simplicity and ease of handling. Additionally, its affordability and low maintenance costs contributed to its status as a household name in Malaysia.

What Was the Sales Performance of the Perodua Kancil?

The sales performance of the Perodua Kancil was impressive, with total production reaching 722,223 units. The Kancil quickly became a bestseller upon its release, with Perodua producing its 50,000th unit by December 1995. By January 1997, production had surpassed 100,000 units, and by 1999, 250,000 units were on the road. Monthly production averaged 4,000 cars, peaking in October 2002 with 7,700 units built.

How Did the Perodua Kancil Fare in International Markets?

The Perodua Kancil was exported to 19 countries, including the United Kingdom, where it was marketed as the Perodua Nippa. Launched in the UK in September 1997, the Nippa was priced just over £5,000, making it the cheapest new car available at the time. In Indonesia, it was sold as the Daihatsu Ceria, available with the 850cc engine. The Ceria was marketed as a cheerful, budget-friendly city car until its discontinuation in 2006.

What Models and Variants Were Available for the Perodua Kancil?

The Perodua Kancil was available in multiple models and variants, catering to diverse consumer needs. The base models included the 660cc EX and GX with manual transmissions, and the 660cc EZ with an automatic transmission. The 850cc models included the EX and GX with manual transmissions, and the EZ and EZi with automatic options. Special editions, such as the Kancil SE and EXS, offered additional features like alloy wheels and CD players, enhancing the vehicle’s appeal.

What Is the Legacy of the Perodua Kancil?

The legacy of the Perodua Kancil is significant in the context of Malaysia’s automotive history. As Perodua’s inaugural model, it set the stage for the company’s success and paved the way for future models like the Perodua Viva and Kelisa. The Kancil’s affordability, reliability, and practicality made it a beloved choice for many Malaysians, leaving a lasting impact on the nation’s car culture. The Kancil remains a nostalgic symbol of Malaysia’s automotive industry, often remembered fondly by those who grew up with it.