Honda Malaysia has again claimed the No.1 position in the Non-National segment of the Malaysian car market, with a total of 60,469 vehicle delivered in 2020. This is the sixth consecutive year that the company has been in the lead position after the two Malaysian makes.
Announcing the achievement, Honda Malaysia’s Managing Director & CEO, Toichi Ishiyama, said: “The year 2020 may have been challenging but we have managed to maintain our undisputed No.1 position in the Non-National Segment for the sixth consecutive and for that, we are truly humbled by the support we have received.”
City accounted for 34% of sales
Mr. Ishiyama said that the City, being the most popular Non-National B-segment model among Malaysians, was the biggest contributor (34%) to the total volume. “Officially launched in October 2020, the all-new City recorded highest monthly sales in its history with over 5,500 units sold in the month of December 2020. It also received positive response from the market with more than 15,200 bookings to date, making it one of the highest booking figures for a newly launched model in Honda Malaysia in the second half of 2020.
The second best-selling model was the Civic, followed by the HR-V, which contributed 20% and 17% to the total sales volume, respectively.
Mr. Ishiyama also expressed gratitude to the Malaysian government extending the sales tax exemption incentive. “We sincerely thank the Malaysian government for the extension of sales tax exemption until June 30, 2021 which will allow many Malaysians to purchase cars with extra savings. As we move on in 2021, we will continue to support the government’s efforts to curb the pandemic which is still active nationwide,” he said.
City RS e:HEV due this month
While the City S, V and E variants (priced from RM74,191.27, excluding 10% sales tax) with the new 1.5-litre DOHC i-VTEC powertrain have been on sale since October, the all-new City RS e:HEV variant will be available from this month. The RS e:HEV variant is a world-first with its intelligent Multi-Mode Drive (i-MMD) powertrain.
The new City RS e:HEV will be available this month.
This electrified powertrain is an advanced hybrid powertrain with 2 motors and an Electric Continuous Variable Transmission (e-CVT). Together with a 1.5-litre petrol engine, the i-MMD powertrain can generate up to 253 Nm of torque, an exceptional output for its size. Maximum power output is 108 ps which can take the City beyond 170 km/h and yet consume fuel at a claimed rate of 26.5 kms/litre.
It was described as ‘the world’s most advanced sportscar’ when it made its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 1995. Famously named after a grand-daughter of Romano Artioli, who was then Chairman of Lotus, it was built on a futuristic epoxy-bonded extruded aluminium chassis. This was a world first, as were its extruded aluminium suspension uprights and aluminium metal-matrix brake discs.
Rewrote the lightweight rulebook
Designed and developed in-house at Lotus, it was a genuine innovation that rewrote the rulebook on lightweight automotive engineering which was an obsession for Colin Chapman, the company’s founder. “Adding power makes you faster on the straights; subtracting weight makes you faster everywhere,” he once said.
Power for the 690-kg Elise came from Rover’s 1.8-litre 118-bhp K-Series engine, transversely-mounted behind the two seats. Given the car’s exceptionally light weight, it meant a swift 0 – 100 km/h times of around 5.5 seconds with the 5-speed manual transmission.
Not surprisingly, when journalists and enthusiasts drove it, the reviews were stellar. It heralded a new generation of light, agile and pure performance car that thrilled the enthusiastic driver. The promise of breathtaking performance would cost less than £20,000 (in the UK in 1996).
Up to 190 bhp
Sport Elise versions with outputs of 135, 160 and 190 bhp were launched to support the growing track-day industry, plus the Elise 111S with a Variable Valve Control (VVC) version of the K-Series. Numerous special editions were offered, including some with Lotus motorsport heritage paint colours such as the iconic JPS and Gold Leaf liveries.
The 340R was the final chapter in the S1 story, first seen at the British Motor Show in October 1998 and named after the number that were to be built. On sale 12 months later, it was a more hardcore version of the Elise, minimalist in its execution with no doors or roof and tiny mudguards covering the outboard wheels. Whilst road-legal, Lotus made no secret that it was the ideal track-day car.
Lotus 340R
Made in Malaysia too
Although never officially designated S1 by Lotus, the car’s global fan base defined the 1996-2001 Elise as the S1 when a new Elise entered production. That was designated the S2, again unofficially.
By the time S1 production ended in 2001, around 12,000 had been sold over 5 years. A small number were also made at the Proton factory in Malaysia at one stage as Proton had acquired Lotus in 1996, and owned it till 2017.
After making a big splash with the launch of multiple models last month, UMW Toyota Motor starts off the new year by being the first company to announce new models that will be in showrooms soon. The first of these is the updated Toyota Innova for 2021 which has cosmetic changes and additional safety systems made standard.
Bookings are accepted from today for the new Innova which is available in three variants: Innova 2.0X – from RM129,677; Innova 2.0G – from RM121,483; and Innova 2.0 E – from RM111,622. There are six exterior colour choices, with the Innova 2.0X having an additional choice of Crimson Spark Red Metallic. Every new vehicle comes with a 5-year warranty and no limit on mileage covered. [Click here for latest pricelists]
Styling enhancements
The 2021 Innova’s cosmetic changes alter the appearance of the front end noticeably, with a chrome and black theme used for the grille and chrome for the door mirror housings and integrated turn signals. The foglamps and foglamp bezels have also been redesigned for a bolder appearance.
The flagship Innova 2.0X comes with exclusive styling enhancements such as new wheelarch mouldings for protecting the bodywork, new bodyside mouldings and redesigned side skirts that add a sporty touch.
While the lightweight 17-inch alloy rims of the Innova 2.0X are now in Dark Mica Metallic instead of black, those on the Innova 2.0G get a more dynamic new design. At the rear, the garnish on the back door has been restyled, while the roof spoiler (only for the Innova 2.0X) has been reprofiled for aerodynamic improvements.
Changes within
The large and bright 9-inch capacitive touchscreen for the infotainment system also serves as a display for the Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) which is now standard for the Innova 2.0X and Innova 2.0G. The PVM display has been changed from a 2D view to a 3D view to provide the driver with a better perspective of the vehicle and its surroundings for more precise maneuvering in tight spaces.
Responding to customer feedback, more charging ports have been added. The front 2 USB ports have been repositioned in the dashboard from the centre console and an additional USB port has been provided for those in the third row of seats. All the ports have Fast Charging capability for compatible smartphones and other portable devices. Additionally, a wireless charging pad located in the centre console is also available as an option.
The Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert systems which can help prevent collisions with other vehicles are now standard for the Innova 2.0X and Innova 2.0G. The entire Innova range qualifies for the maximum 5-star ASEAN NCAP rating. All variants come with 7 SRS airbags and every one of the occupants on 3 rows has a 3-point auto-retracting seatbelt.
All variants have ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Brake Assist, as well as Vehicle Stability Control with Traction Control, Emergency Stop Signal and Hill-start Assist Control.
Better security
Besides the standard electronic security system, UMWT is now installing a Toyota Vehicle Telematics System (VTS) which can track the vehicle’s movements using GPS and GSM technology. In the event that the vehicle is stolen, the VTS Command Centre can determine its location and inform relevant authorities to make recovery faster.
Bookings can be made at all Toyota showrooms nationwide as well as online at build.toyota.com.my. Locations of all showrooms can be found at www.toyota.com.my or by calling the Toyota Freephone at 1800-8-TOYOTA (869682).
The second model to be announced by UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) today is the updated Toyota Fortuner which will be available during the first quarter of this year. However, bookings can be made now at all authorised UMWT dealerships nationwide or online.
Assembled in Malaysia, Toyota’s full-sized 4×4 SUV for the Malaysian market will continue to be available with a choice of two variants at the following prices: Fortuner 2.8 VRZ 4×4 A/T – from RM203,183 and Fortuner 2.7 SRZ 4×4 A/T – from RM172,244. A 5-year warranty with unlimited mileage comes with each vehicle. [Click here for latest pricelists]
The Fortuner 2.8 VRZ 4×4 A/T is a new variant which replaces the Fortuner 2.4 VRZ offered previously. A new body colour – Bronze Mica Metallic – with a Black Roof will be available exclusively for this new variant which is the flagship of the range. The Black Roof is also available with the Super White II exterior colour only for this variant with other four exterior colour choices.
Exterior changes
The 2021 Fortuner 2.8 VRZ comes with Quad LED headlamps with a new housing, flanking a mesh-type front grille. The foglamps, turn signals and position lamps have also been restyled while the front and rear bumpers have a new design. The skidplate below the front end is also new, emphasising ruggedness. Additionally, the corner mouldings are specially shaped for aerodynamic benefits.
For the Fortuner 2.7 SRZ, the Bi-Beam LED headlamps also have a new sharper design along with the revised front grille and front bumper. The turn signals, position lamps and rear combination lamps have also received cosmetic changes for both variants.
What’s new inside
The current generation of the Fortuner has a more premium image and interior feel, and this is further enhanced with the 2021 models. The Fortuner 2.8 VRZ interior, which has 3 rows of seats, is trimmed with a new design and colour while the seat upholstery also has a new colour and design.
The new instrument panel features a revised Multi Information Display (MID) opening animation. Ambient illumination is provided to add a touch of class at night, while the key cover has been redesigned.
The instrument panel for the Fortuner 2.7 SRZ has been redesigned and for enhanced usefulness, the MID has additional information for the driver. This variant also gets a new interior trim colour and new seat upholstery colour to freshen up the cabin appearance.
For added comfort and convenience, the new Fortuner is fitted with LED Interior Lamps, Electrochromic Rearview Mirror (to eliminate dazzle) and the front passenger can now easily adjust the seat with powered controls at the side.
Toyota Safety Sense
Toyota Safety Sense (TSS is standard in the Fortuner 2.8 VRZ). This is an integrated suite of active safety systems which make use of a camera and radar to monitor and detect other vehicles, and to take appropriate action to prevent an accident.
TSS, though available in many Toyota models today, has different elements and for the latest Fortuner, it comes with Pre collision System (PCS), Lane Departure Alert (LDA) and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) and Yaw Assist Function.
Unlike the TSS in passenger vehicles, the system in the Fortuner (as well as Hilux) has a Yaw Assist Function. This activates when lane departure is detected and additional braking force applied to the inner wheels to direct the vehicle back into the proper lane position.
Proven powertrains
The proven Toyota powertrains are maintained with the availability of the new 1GD-FTV 4-cylinder commonrail diesel engine that has a heavy-duty variable nozzle turbocharger and Intercooler. The new muscular 2.8-litre engine, which produces maximum power of 204 pd/500 Nm, operates at high efficiency with the electronically-controlled common rail injection system that can deliver fuel at a maximum pressure of up to 250 MPa.
The Fortuner 2.8 VRZ also comes with Variable Flow Control Power Steering, which helps to improve fuel economy by reducing the power steering pump consumption torque. This is achieved by having a standby mode (low assist) when the vehicle is not being steered. As with other power steering systems, the amount of assistance varies according to the speed. It is greater at low speeds (eg when parking) to make steering easier and becomes less at higher speeds to give a firmer feel.
The part-time 4×4 drivetrain provides for maximum capability on all surfaces, from smooth highway to muddy jungle tracks. With the 4×4 engaged, all four wheels constantly get power to give better stability and grip in all conditions, increasing safety.
The drivetrain of both variants includes an Auto Limited Slip Differential (LSD). This device is very useful in the most difficult conditions and uses the traction control system to control braking when one of the rear wheels start to spin. It allows engine power to be maintained and power is directed to the wheel with better traction.
Bookings can be made at all Toyota showrooms nationwide as well as online at build.toyota.com.my. Locations of all showrooms can be found at www.toyota.com.my or by calling the Toyota Freephone at 1800-8-TOYOTA (869682).
It’s always good for owners if a brand has an official representative in the country, as they can then be assured of aftersales support. For those who own or want to own a Lamborghini, the good news is that the carmaker has appointed an official dealer – SunAgata Supercars Sdn Bhd, which will be known as Lamborghini Kuala Lumpur.
The company will commence full operations from April 2021 when its showroom and aftersales facility are officially opened. Meanwhile, it is wasting no time in ensuring that existing owners can receive aftersales support by having a temporary service facility at the Audi Centre in Glenmarie, Shah Alam, Selangor.
Lamborghini Kuala Lumpur will temporarily operate from the Audi Centre in Glenmarie, Selangor. It’s not surprising that it is at that location since Audi owns the Italian company.
Quality, reliability, immense technical sophistication and a constant commitment to meeting customers’ expectations are the fundamental elements that distinguish the Lamborghini brand. We believe that the strong partnership between Lamborghini and SunAgata Supercar will effectively communicate our brand values to loyal owners as well as new customers, both in terms of our image and how we operate. Lamborghini Kuala Lumpur will strengthen our highly acclaimed brand by delivering an unparalleled customer ownership experience,” said Francesco Scardaoni, Regional Director for Automobili Lamborghini in Asia Pacific.
After a year of unprecedented challenges, Proton closed 2020 on a high with another increase in sales, following a previous landmark performance in 2019. Despite losing over 2 months of vehicle production as well as sales due to the MCO (Movement Control Order), the company was still able to sell 109,716 vehicles for the whole of 2020 after a final month of 13,306 units.
The 2020 volume represented an increase of 8.8% over the 100,821 units sold in 2019, and Proton says it is the only major automotive company to record growth in Malaysia. Its market share for the year also increased to an estimated 21.1%, a significant 4.4% increase.
Main drivers of volume growth
The main drivers of volume growth were the extensively updated Persona, Iriz, Exora and Saga, which all posted higher numbers in 2020. The X50 surpassed expectations despite its later than planned arrival. The sales performance, combined with a 49.8% increase in export volume, allowed Proton to buck the trend of the Malaysian automotive industry which is expected to contract by an estimated 13%.
In terms of individual performance, each Proton model ended the year near the top of their respective segments. The Saga remains as the company’s bestseller for 2020, while the launch of the X50 and continued strong sales for the X70 combined to make Proton the leading SUV brand in the country.
Sales of X50 and continued high demand for X70 makes Proton to leading SUV brand in Malaysia.
“We are grateful to have achieved this level of performance against the backdrop of 2020. To describe it as challenging would be an understatement but we persevered. Our results were backed by many factors, trust from our customers, support from the government, commitment from vendors, resilience of our dealers and also the diligence of our staff,” said Dr. Li Chunrong, CEO of Proton.
Strategic management and decision-making
COVID-19 brought economic activity to a complete halt and its adverse effects required quick, prudent and tough management decisions. Fortunately, with the last few years of vigilant cost control and improved efficiencies, the company was able to react quickly to the crisis. This meant that despite the shutdown, there were no layoffs or salary cuts. More importantly, constant monitoring and agility allowed the company to ramp up production very quickly after the lockdown.
Post-lockdown, Proton was rigorous about safety for both customers and employees. Stringent protocols were deployed and are still being followed to ensure that all customers, partners and employees can interact with peace of mind.
Still, like all other industries dependent on a global supply chain for components, the company was affected by the availability of parts for producing new cars and replenishing its spares. This caused delays that, in some instances, severely increased waiting times for both sales and service customers. However, steps have been taken to address these issues and a marked improvement in the coming year is promised though, in the short term, some delays will persist.
Continued push in manufacturing and quality
A key component in Proton’s performance for 2020 was the results of its investments in manufacturing and quality. This was both in the areas of hardware and software. Aside from technology, new processes and systems were introduced to drive an increase in capacity and precision. This was exemplified not only with the increased volume but with the smooth introduction of the X50 at the company’s new production line at the Tanjung Malim factory in Perak, which also makes the Persona, Iris and X70.
Proton also reports that it markedly improved its Global Customer Product Audit (GCPA) score demonstrating that its quality initiatives are coming to fruition. The company was able to do this despite manufacturing being the most severely impacted by the pandemic.
Export growth in trying times
Despite the restrictions placed on the global movement of goods, 2020 saw a strong year for the company’s export division, with a bumper month in December. The first locally assembled Saga roll-off the assembly line in Kenya and the model also made its debut alongside the X70 in Pakistan. Both models are currently imported in CBU form from Malaysia but will soon be assembled in Karachi when the new assembly plant is completed later this year.
The X50 meanwhile entered its first export market when it made its international debut in Brunei last month. It is the fourth Proton model to be launched in the kingdom in 2020 after the latest Persona, Iriz and Saga.
Raising the retail game
Proton increased its footprint nationwide with another 20 3S/4S outlets, bringing its network size to 140 by the end of 2020. The company continued its programme of upgrading to make a difference in the entire customer value-chain. In striving to deliver a premium brand experience, it paid special focus to revamping the back-end of the business, especially in the areas of after-sales and parts.
While already showing results, these efforts are part of Proton’s plan for the long-term evolution of its business. As such, 2020 also saw Proton change from a retail sales model to a wholesale one with the transfer of ownership of 49 of its branches. This allows the company to focus more on product development, product quality, after sales service and exports while opening the door for dealers to expand the envelope of customer service.
Proton also did its part in helping in the war against COVID-19, providing frontliners with protective equipment made at Proton’s factory, and also vehicles for government agencies to use.
“2020 was a real test of Proton’s mettle as we had only just begun our new trajectory. The nature of this pandemic for an organization like ours, which depends on global supply chains, put great strain on the business. However, a combination of good strategy and hard work has left us not only with an increase in sales against a decreasing market but a renewed belief in our product strategy, quality and commitment to our customers,” Dr.Li said.
“At the same time, we also saw to it that we did our part for the country, which all of us at Proton are especially proud of. We will continue to put the pedal to the metal in 2021 and strive to improve all aspects of the business,” he added,
