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Nissan has unveiled its all-new 2020 Nissan Sentra during the 2019 Los Angeles Auto Show. Known as their best-selling model of all time in the American market, the 2020 Nissan Sentra comes with a lot of desirable features from class-leading interior refinement, standard Safety Shield 360, seamless connectivity, to fun-to-drive performance. (more…)

Long before the appearance of the small SUVs that are so popular today, Ford was selling a 4×4 vehicle that would have been called a compact SUV had the term been in use then. It was known as the Bronco and sold during the 1960s and 1970s as a rival to the Jeep. The model line went through a few generations until the mid-1990s when its engineering was dated compared to the new generation of SUVs coming into the market.

The Bronco name is still fondly remembered by many (in America) and Ford has said that it is working on bringing back the model in 2020. Although there were rumours it would be a rebadged Everest, Ford has said that it will not be done that way and will have a new design using the platform of the current T6 Ranger (previous generations of the Bronco sat on the F-Series chassis).

Ford Bronco R race prototype
The Ford Bronco R race prototype with the original first generation model (left).

Celebrating a historic win 50 years ago
While we’re waiting for the new Bronco to be unveiled (possibly in Detroit in January?), the Bronco R race prototype shows some clues as to what it will look like. It debuts in the desert to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Rod Hall’s historic Baja 1000 win, an overall victory in a 4×4 that’s never been duplicated in 50 years. As a test, the Bronco R will head back to the Baja Peninsula later this month to take on the near 1,600-km gruelling off-road course and challenge the production Bronco’s powertrain and architecture.

Ford Bronco R race prototype
Ford’s Bronco R race prototype debuts in the desert to celebrate the 50th anniversary of a historic Baja 1000 win, an overall victory in a 4×4 that’s never been duplicated in 50 years.

And as a tease, the Bronco R – developed by Ford Performance in collaboration with builder Geiser Bros Design and Development and Baja 1000 Trophy Truck champion Cameron Steele – drops heritage-inspired design and proportion hints of what enthusiasts can expect to see when the future Bronco makes its world premiere.

Iconic Bronco design
Hidden behind an innocuous security door in a Ford studio basement, a small team led by Paul Wraith, Bronco chief designer, worked since July to make the race prototype unmistakably Bronco at first sight. The team worked in secret to create a one-off build that hints at the all-new Bronco to come, while paying homage to the first-generation styling and proportions.

Ford Bronco Race R prototype

Ford Bronco R race prototype

The team focused on creating a race-ready look with an overall heritage-inspired design language. With its compressed body height and long-travel suspension, the Bronco R features an ultra-wide stance, while a variety of aero components reinforce its performance intent.

The prototype’s lightweight composite body includes a clamshell bonnet and roof, as well as clean body panels that are reminiscent of the first-generation Bronco. A cut-roof design allows rear seat passengers to use a second-row hatch for access.

1966 Ford Bronco
The first generation of the Bronco.

Race-focussed exterior
The exterior incorporates 15 LED lightbars, including a grille sequence framing the new BRONCO brand lettering boldly. To underscore that this is a one-of-a-kind racing prototype, the ‘R’ is given a sharp graphic treatment. Washers inscribed with the Bronco name are visible at various points around the exterior and secure the composite skin to the roll cage beneath it.

Ford Bronco R race prototype

A unique race-focused interior features lightweight off-road racing shells from Recaro for all three seating positions. Simple surfaces of the instrument panel nod to the first-generation, and the integration of a MoTeC data acquisition system enables real-time monitoring and measurement of the prototype’s performance attributes.

The Bronco R race prototype is designed with the production model’s body-on-frame architecture to test its capability and durability. It is modified from the Ranger’s chassis which will be the base for the production model. Beefed up for Baja, it has independent front suspension with 355 mm of travel and a production-based 5-link rear suspension with almost 500 mm of travel, plus custom Fox shocks, 17-inch beadlock-capable aluminim wheels and 37-inch BFGoodrich tyres.

Ford Ranger
The production Bronco will use the same platform as the current global Ranger pick-up available from Sime Darby Auto ConneXion.

Ford Bronco R race prototype

“Like the original Bronco, we kept Bronco R’s design authentic and simple, with a roll cage on a production-style frame, and a 5-piece lightweight body on top,” said Brian Novak, Ford Performance off-road racing supervisor. “For the endurance needs of Baja’s 1,600 gruelling kms, we built in a limited number of race-focused parts. But even the twin turbos of the EcoBoost engine are representative of what the production Bronco will offer.”

The new Bronco is unlikely to be sold in Malaysia but if you are interested in the Ranger, which has the same rugged platform, visit a Sime Darby Auto ConneXion showroom for a test-drive.

PISTON.MY

Ever wondered how fast a tractor can go? No? Neither have we but the folks from Williams Advanced Engineering wanted to find out and with the help of the very popular Isle of Man TT racer / TV presenter, Guy Martin, they actually found out earlier this week. (more…)

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In Malaysia, as in most countries, it is a legal requirement to have a vehicle registered and roadtax paid annually plus there must be insurance coverage, in order to drive on public roads. Those with very old vehicles may opt to save on insurance premiums by buying cheaper third-party coverage, which pays compensation only to other parties in the event of an accident. They will not be able to make claims for damage to their own vehicle.

For those with relatively new vehicles, comprehensive insurance coverage is usually chosen. In fact, if the vehicle is under a H-P loan, it is a must as the bank needs to be assured it will be compensated if the vehicle is stolen or written-off in an accident. This covers not only third-party compensation but also provides for compensation for loss of the vehicle or repair costs to restore it after an accident.

Volkswagen Puchong
The Volkswagen Insurance Plan (VIP) is available from all authorised Volkswagen dealers in Malaysia.

Of course, just like other types of insurance (health, life, house, etc), you buy insurance hoping that you never have to call up the insurance company to make a claim. But, apart from being a mandatory requirement for vehicles, it gives peace of mind that you are ‘covered’. Should you one day have an accident or the vehicle is stolen, you will be so glad that there is compensation for the loss and you don’t have to pay yourself.

Exclusively for Volkswagen owners
Generally, comprehensive insurance policies for motor vehicles offer similar benefits which focus mainly on compensation in the event of loss or damage. However, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) believes that its customers deserve more and working with a group of leading insurance companies, it has formulated the Volkswagen Insurance Plan (VIP) exclusively for Volkswagen owners.

VIP
Owners of older Volkswagen models can also enjoy all the extra benefits of VIP.

VIP is just one of the elements in its Volkswagen Cares commitment to give the best to every customer. Whether you are owning a Volkswagen for the first time or have one which has been a trusted member of the family for years, VIP is available with its enhanced benefits that go beyond just compensation. VIP is available only from authorized Volkswagen dealers in Malaysia and the insurance policy can be purchased at any time.

Should the vehicle be disabled or seriously damaged due to an accident, having VIP ensures that reliable and authorized towing services are used. The assistance to call the towing service will be handled by the VIP 24-hour Roadside Assistance and the vehicle will be transported to the nearest authorized Volkswagen service centre. Such assistance would prove valuable especially if there is an accident and stress levels are high. Just call the toll-free number 1-800-88-2389 and help will be on its way.

Volkswagen Service

Why get VIP?
The value of VIP will also be demonstrated when a claim has to be made. Those who have had to make such claims themselves know that the process can be time-consuming and even frustrating in some cases. Apart from submitting the claim, there is a need to wait for the adjuster to come and assess the damage and decide on the cost the insurance company is willing to cover.

Volkswagen
When you have VIP, claims are prioritised and repairs can start faster.

VIP takes all that away for claims below RM30,000 because the claim will be prioritized the moment the vehicle enters the service centre. The Volkswagen staff, who are familiar with the process, will assist in all aspects and obtain approval to start repairs as fast as possible. In fact, the owner is unlikely to have to personally be involved other than to provide the required documents, sign on the Claim Form and receive updates on the repair work. It’s as good as being a VIP (Very Important Person)!

Paint booth
Refinishing and repainting are done in accordance with Volkswagen AG’s strict standards, restoring the car to its original condition.

Extra benefits
Some insurance companies impose what is known as a ‘betterment charges’. This can run to thousands of ringgit because the insurance industry sees repairs which use brand new parts as improving the condition of the car in relation to its actual age. This means that if a 10-year old car has new headlights installed because the old ones were completely destroyed, the ‘age’ of the car in that area differs. For this, the insurance company will impose the betterment charge which sometimes catches owners by surprise.

Volkswagen owners who have VIP do not have to worry about this charge because it is waived for vehicles up to 10 years old. They will not have to pay anything extra for brand new genuine parts as required for the repairs. Everything related to restoring their vehicle to proper running condition will be done by certified technicians with materials that meet Volkswagen AG’s high standards. It is important to note that because it is an authorized service centre, only Genuine Parts will be used to repair your vehicle.

Volkswagen
Only Volkswagen Genuine Parts are used and all work is done by certified technicians.

The premiums for VIP will be in accordance with prevailing industry levels. At this time, Allianz General Insurance Berhad and Etiqa General Takaful Berhad are the partner panel insurers collaborating with VPCM to offer the Volkswagen Insurance Plan.

Volkswagen Cares

“With VIP, all Volkswagen owners regardless of model, can enjoy quality services and roadside assistance at the best value under a comprehensive plan catered exclusively just for them,” says Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM. “Our owners are at the core of everything we do and providing this added service to them at our dealerships also ensures that the entire process is streamlined and more convenient, making our Volkswagen dealerships a one-stop centre for customer convenience and peace of mind.”

Click here to know more about the Volkswagen Insurance Plan and extra benefits.

 

In recent times, Hyundai has been using an evolving design language that maintained an overall familiarity. It’s referred to as ‘Sensuous Sportiness’ and has been applied globally. The design language is still evolving and is shown in the seventh model in a series of Hyundai Design Centre concepts – the Vision T Plug-in Hybrid SUV Concept.

The SUV concept, likely to be a preview of the next generation of the Tucson (the ‘T’ may be the clue), has a matte-green exterior finish and is powered by a plug-in hybrid powertrain indicating its eco-lifestyle focus and inherent balance with the environment in which it is driven.

2019 Hyundai Vision T Concept

2019 Hyundai Tucson 3rd generation
Current Tucson which is in the third generation.

Two derivative sub-themes
Two derivative sub-themes of the dynamism fundamental design concept are ‘Parametric Fantasy’ and ‘Transcendent Connectivity’. In these sub-themes, all parametric surfaces are connected from the body to either light or trim features. It features seamless connectivity free from distinct design boundaries.

Ambient light reflects off these concave and convex lines creating an extreme sense of tension. Charisma is added with the evolution of a Hidden Signature Lamp derived from the Le Fil Rouge and Grandeur Face Lift.

2019 Hyundai Vision T Concept

2019 Hyundai Vision T Concept

Parametric Air Shutter Grille Design
At higher speeds, the Parametric Air Shutter is an original developmental feature that actively adjusts both aerodynamics and design appearance. When stationary, the grille is closed and static. Once in motion, each individual cell of the grille design continues to move in a prescribed sequence, creating a truly dynamic forward stance. This dynamic character includes the functional effect of controlling airflow to the powertrain, optimizing aerodynamics and fuel efficiency.

The 4.6-metre long Vision T’s side profile conveys a continual sense of speed and forward motion. The long bonnet and level roofline coupled with a long wheelbase and short overhangs reflect a ready-for-anything dynamic character. In contrast to prevailing compact SUV designs, the Vision T uses crisp geometric angles and edges to create a striking contrast between a sleek silhouette and masculine wedge lines.

2019 Hyundai Vision T Concept

The side window design is ultra-clean and seamless, with a futuristic frameless daylight opening and a satin chrome garnish. The oversize satin chrome alloy wheels feature ample voided area with dark orange brake calipers visible within the split-5-spoke wheel design. The beveled sides of the wheel spokes feature a matte-gray finish descending into the voided areas, highlighting the brilliance of the satin chrome spoke faces.

From above, a special glass pattern is embossed within the roof glass structure. These dynamic effects carry into the Hyundai logo design. The H design is dark chrome; when illuminated it is enhanced with a bright green and deep red hue for sharper dimensionality.

2019 Hyundai Vision T Concept

Integrated Hidden Signature Headlamp
When the powertrain is started, the dark-chrome matte hue of the integrated hidden signature headlamp system features a half-mirror system that has a chromium appearance which transforms into functional lighting on demand. The designers have elevated the appeal of luminous parametric design through hidden DRLs, while the hidden signature lamp represents the next generation of this Hyundai design innovation.

2019 Hyundai Vision T Concept

The sequenced lighting theme carries through to the rear of the vehicle, demonstrated when the powertrain is shut down and the rear tail lamps and Hyundai logo follow a prescribed light extinguishing sequence, with the Hyundai logo as the last of the rear lighting signature to cease illumination.

2019 Hyundai Vision T Concept

The charging port for the battery pack is located on the passenger side rear quarter panel and features a sliding cover. When charging, ‘Blue Drive’ is illuminated, indicating the system is actively charging. The battery state of charge is also visually indicated externally in a metered, circular light cluster, creating a complete circle appearance when fully charged.

(more…)

The folks from Bermaz Motor Sdn Bhd, the official custodian of the Mazda brand here in Malaysia, has announced that their all-new 2019 Mazda CX-30 is now open for booking for those looking for the next-generation compact crossover SUV. Three variants are up on offer from RM143,119.20 (OTR price without insurance). (more…)

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