Image for illustration purpose
Perfection is a word that is most commonly associated with that one meme from X-Men but it is also how we described the all-new in our review. That said, there are a few shortcomings in the otherwise impeccable 7-seater MPV.
One of those small niggles that we found in our review is the absence of telescopic steering and until today, not a single Perodua model comes with this feature. Interestingly enough, the which the Alza is based on does come with tilt and telescopic steering at least overseas.
UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) will be launching the replacement to the long-running in due time with a price tag that’s estimated to be nearly RM 20,000 more than the most expensive Alza. At the time of writing, UMWT has revealed that it received 5,200 bookings for the Veloz so some Malaysians really wouldn’t mind the hefty premium.
Premium or not, the Veloz has a few key differences between it and the Alza mostly in the features which Toyota had teased before including bigger wheels, a wireless charger, and a taller height. Yet, there is also a possibility that the upcoming Malaysian-spec Veloz could also feature a solution for those wanting a perfect seating position for their perfect family hauler.
Indonesian-spec Veloz shown
In many markets overseas, the Toyota Veloz comes standard with telescopic steering adjustment which includes Indonesia, the 7-seater’s home market. This is also seen in other markets where the Veloz is imported from the archipelago including Thailand, the Philippines, and Vietnam.
Malaysian-spec Veloz shown
Hence, it should be likely for the upcoming Malaysian-spec Veloz to also be equipped with telescopic steering adjustment. That is if it follows the Indonesian and overseas specifications as UMWT has yet to confirm further spec details on the Veloz, for now.
Telescopic steering as seen in the Indo-spec Avanza 1.5 G
Meanwhile, tilt and telescopic steering adjustment is offered in the Indonesian Avanza albeit only on the highest variant, the 1.5 G. Lower variants only offer tilt steering adjustment and this is also seen in the entire Daihatsu Xenia range.
Daihatsu Xenia shown
The latter offers a clue as to why the Alza doesn’t feature telescopic steering adjustment as it is quite expensive to produce. Many models in the B-segment like the also only offer 2-way steering height adjustment in order to keep prices low.
It ain't wireless but at least there's proper car connectivity in a Perodua
Perodua’s range of cars best represents its slogan of “Building Cars, People First”. Most of the top variants come with an abundance of safety features like the Perodua Smart Drive Assist (PSDA) ADAS suite and the all-new Alza is also the first Malaysian car to feature proper car connectivity through Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
In essence, Malaysia’s second carmaker is all about offering the best features you get in a modern car while maintaining an affordable price. Daihatsu’s position in Indonesia is similar to Perodua’s in Malaysia – both brands’ focus is on offering affordable transport for the masses.
While some of us might agree that a 4-way steering adjustment is a need in today’s day and age, it might come at the cost of having an even more expensive Alza. Bear in mind that the all-new Alza is around 17% more expensive than its predecessor with the inclusion of a modern powertrain as well as some additional convenience and safety features.
A more perfect Alza? You'll have to wait and see
For some, the all-new Toyota Veloz with its estimated RM 95,000 price might be more suited for those who still have a case of badge snobbery even if it will be locally assembled (CKD) alongside the Alza in Rawang. However, with a few additional features like telescopic steering adjustment, the Veloz might just make an already perfect family car for under RM 100k a bit more exemplary.
Keyword: MY-spec 2022 Toyota Veloz could offer telescopic steering, so why is it not on the Alza?