Perodua reveals the Axia, its replacement for the Viva and also Malaysia's first energy efficient vehicle (EEV). To qualify as an EEV, it has to achieve an average fuel consumption of more than 20km/l for its 801kg-1000kg kerb weight class.

Based on the Daihatsu Ayla which is on sale in Indonesia, it is 65mm longer, 145mm wider and 20mm shorter than the Viva which has been on sale since 2007. Perodua has packaged the Axia so well that it is even 50mm longer when comparing interior length with its bigger brother, the Myvi.

The Axia is only available with a 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine and will be paired with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic. The aluminium twin-cam unit produces 66bhp and 90Nm of torque. Average fuel consumption for the manual is quoted at 21.6km/l while the automatic version does a-still-impressive 20.6km/l

Priced from $9,600 (RM24,600) to $16,700 (RM42,530) in malaysia, the Axia has four different grades.

Standard E, the basic grade, is obviously aimed at the budget conscious ones, judging from the amount of empty slots and buttons inside the car. The steel wheels reinforces the fact. At least, it does come with coloured bumpers and handles unlike its predecessor.

The next grade, Standard G, is the cheapest you can go if you want an automatic Axia. It adds an much-welcomed audio player that plays CDs, alarm system and alloy wheels.

Next up is Special Edition (SE) grade. It gets a sportier front and rear bumper, different head and tail lights and a rear spoiler. Fog lamps are now included. Other added highlights include, ABS, EBD and brake assist, 'sport' seats, brighter dashboard and a better audio system.

For those who want the best, the Advance grade is the range-topper in the lineup and is only available in automatic. Leather seats, leather steering with audio controls and a multimedia touchscreen audio system is now standard.

Will the Axia make it here? We are not sure to be honest but unless the COE subsides to a more manageable level, it is unlikely we will ever see it here.