crossover Archives

All-new Honda HR-V (Vezel) revealed

The Honda HR-V (also known as Vezel in Japan and some other markets) was a hit the moment it arrived in showrooms. As always, Honda somehow got it right first time and in just about every market it was launched – including Malaysia – waiting lists quickly built up.

But no matter how good a product is, there comes a time when competitors have new offerings which start to draw customers away. It’s then time to do a model change and that time has come for the HR-V 5 years after the first generation was launched. Actually, to some, it is considered the second generation because there was a HR-V back in the late 1990s, but that was really a different model concept.

*Preview of HR-V prior to its Malaysian launch in 2015 attracted a lot of attention.*

Hybrid e:HEV powertrain
This time round, the new HR-V gets Honda’s advanced e:HEV hybrid powertrain as standard in most markets. This powertrain is a 2-motor hybrid powertrain which first appeared in the latest Jazz. Unlike the earlier hybrid systems Honda had, the e:HEV powertrain uses on electric motor as a generator and the other as a propulsion motor.

Specific details of the powertrain for the new HR-V are still not available. While it may be an improved version from that in the Jazz, it still has a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder engine and the system output would probably be around 200 ps.

Cleaner appearance
Honda’s designers have maintained the coupe-inspired profile for the crossover SUV. They aimed for ‘seamless, clean, modern design’ but some may find the overall appearance rather bland compared to the current model. But with car designs, time can sometimes change perceptions and as one designer (not from Honda) once said: “If the design of a new car is a great hit right away, we may have a problem as it can also age quickly”.

Interior space has also been a strong point of the HR-V, and with this new generation, exceptional spaciousness is claimed. Intelligent packaging of the hybrid powertrain and its components, which include the battery pack, has liberated more usable space in the cabin.

Thanks to Honda’s compact, integrated powertrain technology and centre fuel tank layout, the new HR-V also retains the Magic Seats that more versatility than conventional folding seats.

Premium SUV feel
As with the exterior, the interior has a premium SUV feel, but with contemporary fabrics and soft-touch materials. The modern minimalist aesthetic, which is initiated by the horizontal sweep of the instrument panel, is the result of an uncluttered interior and dashboard, with each element carefully positioned to contribute to the sense of space.

The feeling of airiness and space is elevated by a new air diffusion system that creates a curtain of fresh air beside and above passengers, flowing from unique L-shaped vents positioned in the top corners of the dashboard.

The first market that will get the new HR-V will be Japan, from April, with export markets around Asia possibly getting it by mid-year. European markets will have the model in showrooms towards the end of the year. As for Malaysia, a year-end debut might be possible if the supply chain is not disrupted as the model is assembled locally at Honda’s own plant in Melaka.

Prefer the current HR-V? Visit www.honda.com.my to locate an authorised dealer to buy one.

First units of new Mitsubishi XPANDER roll out from plant in Pekan, Pahang

Those who have booked a Mitsubishi XPANDER can expect their new 7-seater crossover soon. The first units have been completed and will soon be leaving the plant at HICOM Automotive Manufacturers Sdn Bhd in Pekan, Pahang. Malaysia is the third country to locally-assemble the XPANDER, following Indonesia and Vietnam.

The plant location would be familiar to Mitsubishi Motors as the Pajero (and earlier models of Mitsubishi pick-ups and vans) used to be assembled there in the 1990s. Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) has its own dedicated area for assembling the XPANDER at a rate of 6,000 units annually.

MMM invested in setting up an all-new Body Shop, Painting Jigs and Tester Line at the plant. The Paint Shop is said to be one of the most advanced in ASEAN. Complete immersion and coverage with protective primer paint is achieved during the Electro-Deposition (ED) process with the 360-degree rotation of the vehicle in the tank. Conventional ED processes usually just dip the body at one orientation.

Robots are used for consistent application of multiple coats of paint to ensure a high quality finish. To ensure that the XPANDERs assembled in Malaysia meet the high standards set by Mitsubishi Motors, there are auditors from the Japanese manufacturer who constantly carry out checks.

“We ensure all our customers that each unit of the XPANDER undergoes extensive quality control tests before it is shipped out. Every inch is checked by human-eyes and cutting-edge technology,” said the CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia, Tomoyuki Shinnishi.

Mr. Shinnishi said that the XPANDER is being assembled locally to achieve a more competitive and attractive price, with better specifications providing customers more convenience and comfort. “The XPANDER is a significant model for MMM and we are confident that it will be a favourite among many Malaysians,” he added.

Since its launch in Indonesia, some 270,000 units of the XPANDER (including the XPANDER Cross variant) have been sold across ASEAN. It will be in showrooms next month and come with a 1.5-litre MIVEC engine. Pricing has not been revealed but is expected to be under RM100,000. Visit www.mitsubishi-motors.com.my to locate a showroom to view and test-drive the XPANDER and other Mitsubishi models.

Besides the XPANDER, MMM also assembles two SUV models in Malaysia – the Outlander and ASX – at the Tan Chong plant in Kuala Lumpur. Its most popular model, the Triton, is imported from Thailand in CBU form.

More details of new Mitsubishi XPANDER revealed before launch next month

More details of new Mitsubishi XPANDER revealed before launch next month

Ahead of its official sales launch next month, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) is now making public the main specifications of the Mitsubishi XPANDER, its new 7-seater crossover. While bookings are accepted at all authorised dealerships nationwide, the company is still not revealing its price.

However, it is known that the model is assembled in Malaysia, rather than being imported in CBU form from the production hub in Indonesia. This allows the pricing to be more competitive (possibly below RM100,000) as local assemblers can get incentives from the government to offset their production cost and lower the retail price.

“At Mitsubishi Motors, we want to offer a more price competitive model with better specifications, hence the move to assemble locally. The XPANDER is a significant model for MMM and we are optimistic that it will be a favourite among many Malaysians for its design is more than just aesthetics. We understand that Malaysians now want a car that matched their aspiration for a more active lifestyle and practicality and as such, the XPANDER is customized to meet Malaysians preferences,” said the CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia, Tomoyuki Shinnishi.

The XPANDER has an all-aluminium 1.5-litre MIVEC petrol engine with an output of 105 ps/141 Nm, delivered to the front wheels through a 4-speed automatic transmission.

Mitsubishi Dynamic Shield design
The front end has the latest Mitsubishi Dynamic Shield design concept to express high performance and give a sense of protection for the passengers and pedestrians. On either side are LED Headlamps, Crystal blocks LED position lamps and at the rear, L-illumination LED Tail Lights.

The new XPANDER also comes with 16-inch dual-tone alloy wheels. Besides the large diameter of the wheels, the ground clearance is also set high at 205 mm so that the vehicle can negotiate rough roads and travel along some flooded roads.

The 3-row cabin has an overall length of 4475 mm and an overall height of 1730 mm, made possible by the 2775 mm wheelbase. MMM says that the XPANDER is the only model in its class with fold-flat second and third rows seats providing full luggage space and a car-like cargo area

For the convenience of the many occupants, the XPANDER comes with under-seat multi-purpose storage, a cargo floor box with a lid, third row side pocket and cupholder, centre console box with sliding lid, multiple storage compartments and glovebox with a double compartment.

Keeping everyone cool
Four ceiling-mounted air vents carry cool air all the way to the back of the cabin, ensuring that even the passengers in the third row will be comfortable all the time. Having the extra vents above also helps in cooling down the interior more quickly.

For entertainment, the XPANDER comes with a 9-Inch audio system with Apple Carplay and Android Auto so that compatible smartphones can be connected. This means that favourite apps on the smartphone can be duplicated on the dashboard display panel and operated from there.

Safety features
With so many people on board, safety is even more important and Mitsubishi Motors has made sure that the driver has many active safety systems to help avoid an accident. These include ABS with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), Active Stability Control, Brake Assist, Hill Start Assist, a Rest Reminder and Brake Override System. Cruise control is also mentioned, and this feature can help to reduce fatigue on long drives along the highway.

In the event that an accident does occur, the strong RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) body structure offers protection like a safety cage, with SRS airbags to provide cushioning within so as to reduce serious injuries. Anti-intrusion beams in the doors also provide protection during side collisions.

Dealer packages
Authorized Mitsubishi Motors dealers will also offer customers an optional package which includes an All-Round Monitor, Driving Video Recorder and black leather upholstery.

For more updates and information, visit www.mitsubishi-motors.com.my.

New warehouse in Shah Alam, Selangor, will improve parts operations for Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia

New Mitsubishi XPANDER to be assembled locally

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) will soon launch an all-new model – the Mitsubishi XPANDER. To have competitive pricing, carmakers must assemble their products locally to get incentives that can lower their cost and enable them to have lower retail prices.

MMM is therefore assembling the 7-seater crossover model in Malaysia, its third model to be assembled locally after the ASX and Outlander (the Triton pick-up truck is still imported from Thailand in CBU form). However, unlike the Outlander and ASX, the XPANDER will not be assembled at the Tan Chong plant in Segambut, Kuala Lumpur.

New production facility in Pahang
Instead, it will be assembled in Pekan, Pahang, where Mitsubishi Motors’ partner in MMM, DRB-HICOM, has a manufacturing complex also used by Volkswagen, Isuzu and Mercedes-Benz. According to MMM’s Chief Executive Officer, Tomoyuki Shinnishi, the new production facility for the XPANDER incorporates Japanese automotive technology.

The plant has an all-new body welding workshop including new welding equipment. Its paintshop utilises advanced painting technology including a 360-degree ED-coating and a robotic spray system. This will provide high quality finishes and extend corrosion resistance. The XPANDER, which will have a 1.5-litre MIVEC engine, will also go through an all-new tester line to check all safety functions including Active Stability Control (ASC) system.

“The XPANDER is localized to meet the demands of Malaysian customers. It will be priced competitively to cater for families and adventure-seekers who are looking for a more comfortable and practical 7-seater to make their journeys a more pleasant one. Malaysians can expect to place their bookings soon,” Mr. Shinnishi said.

*Locally-assembled version of the XPANDER.*

As a prelude to the launch, there’s a teaser display of the XPANDER at Mid Valley Megamall in Kuala Lumpur from today until September 13. Those interested to know more and want to receive updates on the new model’s launch can register their interest at www.mitsubishi-motors.com.my.

Click here for other news and articles about Mitsubishi Motors.

Mitsubishi XPANDER confirmed for introduction in Malaysia during 2020

The rumours are true: Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia will be launching the Mitsubishi XPANDER crossover this year. The 7-seater crossover originated in the Indonesian market where the production hub is located, and has been progressively introduced in various ASEAN countries.

The new XPANDER blends functionality with SUV-inspired styling. While Its rugged image appeals broadly, it also has the roominess, convenience, style and functionality which consumers of today want. These qualities are expanded to make it highly suitable for Malaysian lifestyles.

The XPANDER’s styling adopts the ‘Dynamic Shield’ front design concept which has been incorporated in every Mitsubishi model launched in recent years. The ‘Dynamic Shield’ not only gives a bold appearance but also expresses high performance and a sense of protection for the driver and passengers.

Its successful design concept has been validated by the various awards it has won. Some of the prominent awards are ‘2018 Car of the Year’ in Indonesia; ‘Philippines 2019 Automobile of the Year (Standard Category)’; and ‘Thailand Car of the Year 2019 and 2020’ as well as ‘The Best MPV under 1600 cc’ (also in Thailand).

“The XPANDER is not just an important model for Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia, but across the ASEAN region as well. As of June 2020, the model has reached cumulative sales of around 256,000 units. The success of the XPANDER in our neighbouring countries such as Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam reflects how well-suited this car will be to meet the needs of Malaysian customers. MMM is very excited for a thrilling year ahead with the introduction of this impressive 7-seater crossover in Malaysia later this year,” said Tomoyuki Shinnishi, CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia.

The question now is whether it will be assembled locally, as the Outlander and ASX models are, or will it be imported as a CBU model from Indonesia? Although the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) agreement allows for duty-free importation, having a model assembled locally would enable the pricing to be more competitive.

2020 Mitsubishi XPANDER — *The launch date must be close as a unit was spotted being moved around recently.*

If you are keen to get one, visit an authorised Mitsubishi Motors dealer to let them know of your interest so you can be updated. Information will also be available at www.mitsubishi-motors.com.my.

MITSUBISHI CONNECT adds convenience to the ownership experience for Mitsubishi owners

2021 Ariya crossover SUV takes Nissan further along the EV road

Nissan may be buffeted by financial problems at this time but new products still need to get into the market and even though the COVID-19 pandemic has slowed things down, the carmaker is continuing on the road forward.

That road is one which requires electric vehicles (EVs) and Nissan is ready with the all-new Ariya, a crossover SUV which, like the successful LEAF, is powered only by electricity. Introduced online to a global audience today from the new Nissan Pavilion in Yokohama, Japan, the Ariya will be priced at around 5 million yen (about RM200,000). It is scheduled to go on sale in Japan in mid-2021, with exports starting by the end of next year to Europe, North America and China.

“The Nissan Ariya is a truly beautiful and remarkable car,” said Nissan’s Chief Operating Officer, Ashwani Gupta. “It enables you to go further, easier and in comfort. The Ariya is designed to impress, and to express what Nissan strives for – making our customers’ lives better.”

New electrified brand identity
The Ariya is heavily based on the similarly-named concept vehicle displayed at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show although the first design ideas started with the IMx at the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show. The first production model to represent Nissan’s new electrified brand identity, it utilizes an all-new Alliance-developed EV platform.

The styling adopts the company’s new design philosophy which is based on what Nissan calls ‘Timeless Japanese Futurism’ – a distinctive Japanese approach conveyed in a simple-yet-powerfully modern way. Embracing the Japanese term ‘iki’, which characterizes the Ariya’s chic, cutting-edge nature, the front of the vehicle appears seamless, elegant and fresh.

It’s highlighted by a shield – a new term for the traditional grille for the EV era. The shield, incorporating a 3-D, traditional Japanese kumiko pattern just under the smooth surface, protects sensing equipment used for ProPILOT functions and Intelligent Key detection without the aesthetics interrupting operation.

Redesigned brand logo
Nissan’s brand logo, which has been redesigned, is prominently placed at the centre of this aerodynamic shield, beaming with crisp definition from the 20 LEDs that compose it. The lower section of the shield is bordered by subtle lighting that illuminates, along with the logo, when the Ariya is ready for operation. Thin LED headlamps, constructed with four 20-mm mini-projectors, are combined with sequential turn signals to reinvent Nissan’s signature V-motion design.

When viewed from the side, the Ariya has a single, uninterrupted horizon line that stretches across the side profile, linking the front fascia and the rear, conveys linear movement, creating architectural beauty in tension and drama from every angle.

The rear of the Ariya characterized by a steeply raked C-pillar that blends into the rear deck. The one-piece light blade, representing the rear combination lamps, has been engineered to give a black-out effect when parked, and a consistent red illumination, day or night, when in use. Rear fender flares and a high-mounted rear wing signal the Ariya’s powerful EV capabilities.

2WD and AWD, with two battery pack sizes
Building on Nissan’s strength as an EV pioneer, the Ariya is said to ‘take the powerful performance and capabilities of zero-emission vehicles to a new level’. Four core models are offered with choices of 2-wheel-drive (2WD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). Using peak 130 kW charging, the Ariya can recover up to 375 kms with a 30-minute quick charge using Japan’s CHAdeMO charging system.

The Ariya 2WD can be ordered with 63 kWh of usable battery capacity which is suitable for urban commuters, or a larger battery pack with 87 kWh which can provide additional range. The Ariya with the smaller battery pack has an output of 168 kW while the bigger one has 178 kW, with torque from standstill at 300 Nm for both versions. Factory testing has achieved up to 610 kms on a fully charged battery pack.

Like the 2WD variant, the Ariya AWD also has two choices of battery pack capacities – 63 kWh and 87 kWh. Output is 250 kW/560 Nm for the 63-kWh version and 290 kW/600 M, for the bigger battery pack. The latter has a top speed claim of 200 km/h.

With e-4ORCE AWD control technology and twin electric motors, Nissan claims it can deliver balanced, predictable power to all four wheels, equal to or better than many premium sportscars.

Vehicle pitch and dive are minimized by adding regenerative rear-motor braking to the usual front-motor regenerative braking employed by typical EV and hybrid systems today. In addition to optimizing front and rear torque allocation, the system applies independent brake control at each of the four wheels to maximize the cornering force generated by each one. This delivers cornering that faithfully follows driver intentions with minimal steering adjustments.

“By taking advantage of e-4ORCE’s precise motor control response, we’re able to control vehicle motion as soon as the brakes are applied for a stable, smooth ride,” said Ryozo Hiraku, expert leader of Nissan’s powertrain and EV engineering division.

Most technologically advanced Nissan car
The Ariya is also the most technologically advanced Nissan car to date, especially with its ProPILOT 2.0 advanced driver assistance system and ProPILOT Remote Park and e-Pedal features.

The e-Pedal, first introduced in the LEAF, allows the driver to launch, accelerate and decelerate using only the accelerator pedal. It works by initiating the electric motor to start the deceleration process of the vehicle when easing off the accelerator pedal. On low-traction surfaces, the brakes are applied simultaneously with the motor, allowing all four wheels to safely slow down the vehicle. On models equipped with e-4ORCE, regenerative torque is distributed not only to the front wheels, but also the rear.

Also standard across the Ariya line-up is Nissan’s Safety Shield system. This includes Intelligent Around View Monitor, Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, Intelligent Emergency Braking and Rear Automatic Emergency Braking technology.

‘Like a cafe lounge on a starship’
The interior is described as being more akin to a sleek cafe lounge on a starship, evoking performance and intrigue, than to a traditional automotive cabin. The advantages provided by the new EV platform enabled the interior designers to create the most spacious cabin in its class.

This is also helped by the compact nature of the powertrain components which made it possible for the engineers to install the climate control system under the bonnet (where a traditional gasoline engine would be). This meant that the whole length of the cabin could be utilized without obstructions, such as a transmission tunnel or cabin systems tucked under the instrument panel.

Also, a flat, open floor – made possible by the location of the battery at the base of the chassis – and the Ariya’s slim profile Zero Gravity seats result in vast amounts of legroom and easy interaction between front and rear passengers.

The Ariya’s minimalist dashboard has no buttons and switches, something which is unique. The primary climate control functions are integrated into the wooden centre dash in the form of capacitive haptic switches that offer the same feeling as mechanical switches by vibrating when touched.

The display interface features both a 12.3-inch instrument monitor and 12.3-inch centre display along a single horizon. By displaying multiple facets of information on one horizontal plane, information can be quickly digested without the driver being distracted from the road. The two displays are oriented in a wave-like shape to ensure important vehicle information, such as battery information, range and navigation, can be easily reached and scrolled through with a simple swipe.

Related story: Why Nissan designers avoided the tablet in yhe Ariya Concept

The Ariya is the first Nissan model which can received firmware updates over the air using Remote Software Upgrade. The technology automatically updates various software inside the vehicle, making it unnecessary for the owner to take the car to a service centre. With periodic real-time updates, the Ariya will always be able to operate at its full potential.

DIMENSIONS OF THE ARIYA
Overall length – 4595 mm
Overall width – 1850 mm
Overall height – 1655 mm
Wheelbase – 2775 mm
Kerb weight – 1,900 kgs to 2,200 kgs

The Ariya will only go on sale in 2021 and only in Japan and certain regions, and Malaysia is not included. However, you can own a fully electric EV now as the Nissan LEAF is available in Malaysia. Visit www.nissan.com.my to find out where you can get the EV experience.

Nissan IMk concept EV – the perfect city car of the future? (w/VIDEO)

Bermaz Motor creates limited edition Mazda CX-3 to celebrate brand’s 100th anniversary

100 years is a special milestone in any history and for Mazda, it is of course especially significant. To celebrate this 100-year anniversary, the carmaker has many activities, among them, a 100th Anniversary Special Edition series of models. Unfortunately, yjpugh they are offered in Japan and selected markets, they will not be available in Malaysia.

Nevertheless, Bermaz Motor, which handles the Mazda brand in Malaysia has created a special limited edition Mazda CX-3 to commemorate the occasion. Developed by the company’s MazdaSports Division, the limited edition crossover SUV features various enhancements that gives the car a unique styling and design with a high sense of sophistication.

Exlusive Snowflake White Pearl finish
For a distinctive sportier look, the limited edition CX-3 is fitted with a Front Lip Spoiler & Rear Bumper Diffuser. The body features a two-tone finish with a Piano Black Roof and matching rear boot spoiler. Only a Snowflake White Pearl colour is available.

The 18-inch alloy rims are finished in gunmetal while the rear exhaust tips have a brushed aluminium finish.

Within the SUV, the styling enhancements added to the seats, steering wheel, armrest and gearknob are in the form of a dark gray suede finish to match the dashboard and door trims. There are also brushed aluminium sports pedals and scuff plates. Black carpet mats are also provided, exclusive to this limited edition. A JBL Basspro Hub 11-inch Subwoofer is included and this delivers fast and tight, deep bass with low distortion.

Sharper driving experience
Other functional enhancements include a front strut tower brace that covers the engine as well as lower front, mid and rear chassis bars for a sportier, sharper driving experience.

The CX-3 Limited Edition is priced from RM14,500 and bookings can be placed at any authorised Mazda outlet. The accessories fitted have a 1-Year Mazda Genuine Accessory Warranty based on the period of fitment at the time of new vehicle purchase. Deliveries will start from the end of July 2020.

Visit www.mazda.com.my to locate an authorised Mazda outlet or to know more about Mazda models available in Malaysia.

Unusual, little known Mazda vehicles you may never have heard of

Lexus project creates the world’s first tattooed car

With high quality adhesive films available today, you can put just about any image onto the exterior of a car. But Lexus went one step further by actually tattooing images onto its Lexus UX model. It has created the world’s first tattooed car, a strictly one-of-a-kind interpretation compact SUV by leading London tattoo artist Claudia De Sabe.

Using a pure white SUV as her ‘canvas’ and a Dremel drill tool in place of a fine tattooing needle, Claudia produced a sweeping design featuring koi carp along the entire length of the vehicle. The koi is a motif familiar from traditional Japanese art, representing qualities of good fortune and perseverance.

She used the Dremel tool to drill away the surface paint and expose the metal underneath to create the complex pattern, and then applied 5 litres of high-quality car paint by hand to bring out the details.

The process took 6 months to complete from the initial drawings, with the ‘tattooing’ accomplished over five 8-hour days of intensive work. As a finishing touch, she used gold leaf to create highlights and give the design a stronger 3D effect, before the whole vehicle was given a protective lacquer coating so that it can be driven on the road.

No mistakes permitted!
It was clearly a physically demanding project, with the vibration of the drill and working with an object that, unlike a human customer, couldn’t be moved into a comfortable position as the design progressed. Where any small slips in a human tattoo can quite easily be worked or coloured into the pattern, the ‘engraving’ with the drill required absolute precision.

It was the first time Claudia had applied her skills to metal rather than human skin and she found both similarities and new challenges in the unique commission. “When you tattoo a person, you have to think about the muscles and tissue beneath the skin. With the car, it was about the way the bodywork changes shape over the framework,” said Claudia, who was assisted in her work by her Japanese husband Yutaro.

“The best thing about tattooing the Lexus UX, and the reason why this car was ideal for the project, is its streamlined shape. Everything from the lines on the side of the body to the shape of the windows, everything is just so dynamic and beautiful. It was a perfect fit for the design and the concept itself,” said Claudia, a co-founder of the Red Point tattoo studio in Islington, London.

Tribute to takumi craftsmanship
The project stands as a tribute to the takumi craftsmanship that is applied to every Lexus, witnessed in design details and flawless finishes achieved with human skills perfected through years of dedicated training.

Similarly, Lexus embraces traditional Japanese aesthetics in its vehicle designs, in elements such as the UX’s washi paper-grain cabin trims and the seamless merging of the interior and exterior through the front screen, echoing the engawa architectural features of Japanese homes.

Lexus doesn’t plan to offer tattooed versions of the UX for sale but it’s estimated that the unique work done by Claudia and her husband would cost upwards of £120,000 (equivalent to about RM649,000).

The Lexus UX has been introduced in many countries, including Malaysia where it is priced from RM243,888. To find out more, visit www.lexus.com.my.

Lexus goes fully electric with the UX300e

2020 Honda HR-V RS gets additional interior colour theme

Seems like with the industry resuming business, the car companies are trying to quickly make up for the lost months and deferred product introductions. After recently starting deliveries of the updated Honda BR-V, Honda Malaysia has now also announced an update for the RS version of the popular HR-V crossover SUV.

Second choice for interior colour
The update is a new interior colour – a classy dark brown leather which customers can choose as an alternative to the existing black leather theme. The dark brown leather materials are fitted to the centre console, front panel, driver and passenger seats (front and rear) as well as door panel lining.

No change in price
The price remains as RM124,800 (without insurance). Colour options are Passion Red Pearl, Modern Steel Metallic and White Orchid Pearl.

Launched in 2015, there are more than 91,000 units of the HR-V on Malaysian roads. Right from the start, it was a hit as it arrived at the right time when the SUV market boom was accelerating. The facelifted HR-V which was introduced in January 2019 has sold more than 19,000 units with the RS variant contributing 21% to the total.

The HR-V RS is powered by a 1.8-litre SOHC i-VTEC engine and uses an Earth Dreams Technology Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT). Functional features include a 7-inch display screen for the infotainment system, paddle shifters and the very useful LaneWatch system which provides a real-time view of the blindspot on the left side of the vehicle.

“The HR-V RS received overwhelming response from the market since we introduced it in early 2019. Then, based on customers’ feedback for an enhanced touch of sophistication, we introduced the stylish black leather interior for the HR-V RS. We are delighted to provide yet another selection of interior styling to suit the differing personalities of our discerning customers – the new classy dark brown leather interior. We are committed to continuously improve our product offerings as we listen to customers’ feedback and market demand,” said Honda Malaysia’s Managing Director & CEO, Toichi Ishiyama.

Safe practices implemented at all authorised Honda dealerships for customers’ peace of mind

Covid-19 — **Fighting COVID-19 is our joint responsibility. Protect yourself and others: make these 6 simple precautions your new habits.**

Lexus UX 200 launching in Malaysia soon, book now to be the first to own one

Bookings are now accepted by Lexus Malaysia for the new UX 200, the premium brand’s compact SUV. Presumably, the stocks from Japan have arrived in Malaysia so the company should be launching it in the near future in three versions – UX Urban, UX Luxury and UX F-Sport. Prices (exclusing insurance) in Peninsular Malaysia range from RM243,888 to RM299,888 but if you buy and register in the duty-free zones, the price range would be RM156,472 to RM191,841.

“This dynamic new model is truly a product of creative engineering by Lexus led by its first female Chief Engineer. The design itself connects strongly with any audience as a car that is beautifully styled in the spirit of Engawa (Japanese traditional architecture seamlessly to connect inside with the outside). It also includes such high-end Japanese design elements as Sashiko upholstery (a Japanese stitching technique). The UX is the first Lexus model to offer a new trim grain finish that’s inspired by the grain of Japanese paper know as Washi, familiar in traditional Japanese home” said Deputy Chairman of Lexus Malaysia, Akio Takeyama.

Global Architecture-C Platform
The UX 200 has the signature spindle grille that unifies every Lexus model and of course, keen attention to detail and quality that have always been hallmarks of the brand. The compact SUV, developed on the latest Global Architecture-C Platform (GAC Platform), has a stable and dynamic chassis to give a distinctive driving character with refined driving dynamics.

Aiming to help lower road accidents, Lexus has installed the Lexus Safety System + (LSS+), an integrated suite of safety systems that assist the driver and enhance motoring safety. This system employs sophisticated sensors and cameras on board to not only reduce or avoid accidents but also removes the daily stresses of commuting through some of its functions.

10-speed direct-shift CVT
Features-wise (depending on the version), the UX 200 will have items such as a power back door with ‘kick-open’ function, wireless charging, panoramic-view mirror, and a 10-speed direct-shift CVT with the new M20A-FKS petrol engine.

“We believe that this All-New Lexus UX 200 model will be a head-turning model with a strong appeal to the urban motorist. Its high level of sophistication and technology with Lexus engineering makes this one of the most appealing compact SUVs available on the market today,” added President of Lexus Malaysia, Ravindran K.

All units of the UX 200 imported and distributed by Lexus Malaysia come with a comprehensive warranty of 5 years with unlimited mileage. Being the authorised distributor, Lexus Malaysia ensures that there is complete aftersales support available to its customers and has 7 locations across Malaysia with Lexus-trained technicians, diagnostic equipment and genuine replacement parts.

Visit www.lexus.com.my to know more about Lexus products and service in Malaysia.

Click here for other news and articles about Lexus.

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crossover

All-new Honda HR-V (Vezel) revealed

First units of new Mitsubishi XPANDER roll out from plant in Pekan, Pahang

More details of new Mitsubishi XPANDER revealed before launch next month

New Mitsubishi XPANDER to be assembled locally

Mitsubishi XPANDER confirmed for introduction in Malaysia during 2020

2021 Ariya crossover SUV takes Nissan further along the EV road

Bermaz Motor creates limited edition Mazda CX-3 to celebrate brand’s 100th anniversary

Lexus project creates the world’s first tattooed car

2020 Honda HR-V RS gets additional interior colour theme

Lexus UX 200 launching in Malaysia soon, book now to be the first to own one

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The All-New Electric Countryman SE ALL4: Built For Any Terrain

Mitsubishi Teases Electric Crossover For Japan Mobility Show

Hyundai To Launch Another Compact Crossover Later This Year

Polestar 4 – Brand’s Fastest Production Car

Mazda CX-90 Debuts In North America With 3.3-litre Inline 6-Cylinder Turbo Engine

Mitsubishi XPANDER Venture Event Shows Off Capabilities Of 7-Seater Crossover

Archive

SDAC-Ford Supports Orang Asli Empowerment with Global Peace Foundation Malaysia

Kia Unveils U.S. Spec K5 Sedan with Upgrades and New Engine

2024 Mazda CX-5 Facelift Officially Launched In Malaysia From RM144k

Maserati Unveils The 2024 GranCabrio – 535hp and 650Nm

2024 Nissan Juke With N-Sport Trim and Enhanced Features

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