Perodua Kelisa
The Malaysian city car that famously charmed Top Gear with its lightweight, go-kart agility.
- Power
- 54 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 14.8 s
- Top speed
- 88 mph
About the Perodua Kelisa
Based on the fifth-generation Daihatsu Mira (L700), the Perodua Kelisa was marketed as the UK's cheapest new car during the early 2000s. Despite its budget positioning, it gained a cult following among enthusiasts for its featherweight kerb weight and eager three-cylinder engine, which provided surprisingly sprightly performance in urban environments. The GXi trim was the mid-range manual offering, featuring essential upgrades like electric windows and central locking. It remains a notable example of simple, honest engineering, famously praised by Richard Hammond for its 'massive personality' and entertaining driving dynamics.
Perodua Kelisa specs
The Perodua Kelisa produces 54 bhp (40 kW) and 88 Nm (65 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 14.8 seconds and has a top speed of 88 mph (141 km/h).
| Make | Perodua |
|---|---|
| Model | Kelisa |
| Trim | 1.0 GXi |
| Years | 2001–2007 |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | Malaysia |
| Engine | 1.0-litre 12V DOHC inline-3 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 989 cc (1.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 54 bhp (40 kW) at 5,200 rpm |
| Torque | 88 Nm (65 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 7,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 14.8 s |
| Top speed | 88 mph (141 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 760 kg (1,676 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 71 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
Perodua Kelisa rarity in CarSpot
The Perodua Kelisa is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 0 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Perodua Kelisa fun facts
- The Kelisa is named after the Ikan Kelisa, the Malay name for the Arowana fish, which is native to Malaysia.
- Despite its budget status, the Kelisa's 1.0-litre EJ-DE engine features a relatively high 7,000 rpm redline.
- In a famous Top Gear segment, James May and Richard Hammond praised the Kelisa's fun factor, though Jeremy Clarkson later famously destroyed one with a crane.