At the recent press conference where Toyota’s President, Akio Toyoda, gave a broad overview of the company’s electrification strategies during this decade, 16 fully electric – also known as BEVs or battery electric vehicles – were shown on stage. Most are probably just 3-dimensional models of future products but they certainly attracted a lot of speculation and attention, especially the electric Hilux and a SUV that has styling reminiscent of the FJ Cruiser.
To date, Toyota has launched one BEV model which will go on sale in 2022. This is the bZ4X, which is said to have been developed with involvement of Subaru, which will sell a similar model it calls the Solterra. Mr. Toyoda also showed a video of himself and Koji Sato, President & Chief Branding Officer of Lexus International, testing a Lexus BEV prototype around a test course. It’s typical of the Toyota President who, being a racing driver himself, also gets involved in product development.
An uncamouflaged model of that BEV appeared to be in the group of Lexus prototypes also displayed. The BEV will go into production in 2022 and while details have not been released, Lexus has shown more uncamouflaged pictures of the car. The BEV prototype will be the new RZ, a SUV crossover that will be the first of range of Lexus vehicles that have been designed from the start to be BEVs. Apart from having sold hybrids for many years, this will not be the first fully-electric Lexus model as the all-electric UX 300e has been available for about 2 years now. However, that model was not developed only as a BEV.
UX 300e is the fully electric version of the UX compact crossover.
e-TNGA
With the RZ, which will start with a 450e variant, the vehicle is built on a completely new dedicated platform called e-TNGA, a version of the TNGA (Toyota New Generation Architecture) that has been used for all recent new models. While the bz4X is RAV4-sized, the RZ 450e looks like a RX-sized model with similar styling themes but a closed front end typical of EVs.
All-wheel drive with DIRECT4
Not many details are available at this time though it can be expected that the powertrain will be something similar to what is in the bZ4X, with higher output and a bigger battery pack. The all-wheel drive system will be an exclusive control system called DIRECT4 which dynamically controls the drive force to the wheels constantly optimizing the power delivery. It can be fully front wheel drive or rear wheel drive or varying combinations of front and rear drive as conditions require.
The new RZ will also be available with a steer-by-wire system. This is said to eliminate the traditional hand-over-hand action for lower speed driving or parking. It would be possible to do a full U-turn with a simple rotation of the steering wheel.
Steering wheel in the Toyota bZ4X which will initially be offered in SUVs for the China market.
Lexus says there will be a ‘comfortable and unique shape’ which provides a clear view to all relevant information from the instrument panel to the heads-up windshield display. This suggests that the RZ may also have that steering column with a wing-shape. In the bz4X, it will initially be offered in China and then progressively appear in other markets.
Battery warranty up to 10 years
As a measure of the brand’s confidence in its BEV technology, Lexus is offering (in some markets) a 10-year (or up to 1,000,000 kms) extended care on all functional defects of the vehicle’s main battery pack and capacity degradation below 70%, provided that the regular health checks foreseen in the maintenance program are followed. This is a separate warranty from the vehicle warranty which covers the powertrain.
The new RZ range will begin the Lexus offensive to have BEVs in every segment, and account for 100% of the brand’s total sales in Europe, North America, and China by 2030.
LF-Z Electrified concept shows design direction for future BEVs from the brand.
The first units of the new Peugeot 2008 have left the production line at the Stellantis manufacturing plant in Gurun, Kedah. The production is meant for the Malaysian market as well as for export to neighbouring countries. Sales will start in Thailand this month and there will also be lefthand drive versions produced for markets such as the Philippines.
“Built in ASEAN for ASEAN, we’re proud to announce that the first locally-produced new Peugeot 2008 vehicles will be on their way to customers in Southeast Asia in the coming months,” said Christophe Musy, Senior Vice-President, ASEAN & General Distributors at Stellantis.
“This is an important step in our plan to enlarge the Stellantis manufacturing footprint in the region and the first example of our ambition to expand the portfolio of Stellantis vehicles built in Southeast Asia,” said Mr. Musy.
The 2008 comes with Full LED Headlights, Peugeot’s signature 3-claws Light, the new Peugeot i-Cockpit 3D, 3D Quartz Cluster and 7-inch HD Touchscreen with Toggle Switches. It also has the latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) that include Automatic Emergency Braking, Driver Attention Assist 3, and Active Blind Spot Detection + Lane Keep Assist.
Peugeot engineers have done extensive endurance and quality testing in local conditions, with up to 200,000 kms around Malaysia in the diverse local climate and environmental landscape to ensure it is suited for Southeast Asian conditions.
New Peugeot 2008.
Despite forced closure of the plant for an extended period (due to government actions to fight the pandemic), the Stellantis manufacturing team in Malaysia was able to keep to production timelines. By utilizing dynamic online tools and methodologies, they virtually collaborated with colleagues in China and Europe.
“What we’ve been able to achieve at the Gurun plant in Malaysia over the past few months is a great achievement, and we are now focused on continuing the momentum to keep up with the increased customer demand for locally-manufactured Peugeot vehicles in the region,” said Mr. Musy.
Besides the 2008, the plant in Gurun also assembles the latest Peugeot 3008 and 5008.
Stellantis (a merger between the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and the French PSA Group) acquired the NAZA Automotive Manufacturing Sdn. Bhd. plant in October this year. Over 170 employees have returned to work and the company is working with more than 50 local suppliers with production ramping up for the remainder of 2021 to meet local demand. The plant assembles the 3008 and 5008, besides the 2008.
To know more about Peugeot models and aftersales services in Malaysia, visit www.peugeot.com.my. Peugeot owners in Malaysia are urged to provide their contact details to Bermaz Auto Alliance Sdn Bhd which is the new distributor for the brand.
Mazda’s all-new CX-50 is another new model from the carmaker that could be seen as the beginning of a new range with the ‘0’ added at the end. With the exception of the older BT-50, we’ve had the MX-30 and the CX-30 in recent years and now a larger SUV joins this new generation of models.
The CX-50, not intended as an immediate replacement for the CX-5, is essentially for the North American market where Mazda enjoys strong sales. Not only has it been developed for the market but it will also be built there, at the new Mazda Toyota Manufacturing factory in Alabama, with production beginning in January 2022.
The CX-50 will have both naturally aspirated and turbocharged SKYACTIV-G petrol engines. This is a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder unit which will be paired a 6-speed automatic transmission. All versions will have i-ACTIV all-wheel drive and a new Mazda Intelligent Drive Select known as Mi-Drive.
Later on, the company plans to add electrified powertrain options. It confirms a ‘traditional hybrid model’ will be offered but no details are being provided yet. The hybrid powertrain is likely to be Toyota’s (which has often said it is willing to share its technology to promote hybrids) although Mazda engineers would also ‘tune’ it according to their own philosophy.
Up to 150,000 units of the new CX-50 will be built annually at the jointly owned Mazda Toyota Manufacturing factory in Alabama, USA.
With this new model, it appears that Mazda has adjusted the balance of highway capability and off-road capability based on market studies of how owners of SUVs use their vehicles. The present range of models are already fairly competent with jinba-ittai driving dynamics on the road and with the CX-50, some extra capability has been added for off-road motoring. Exactly what this entails is not explained but Mazda says that drivers will be able ‘to venture further into the outdoors and various terrain’.
It is likely that Mazda engineers have adapted the G-Vectoring Control (GVC) to enhance driving on loose surfaces. This proprietary system developed by the carmaker intelligently adjusts engine torque so that weight distribution is more front-biased when turning in. That could be useful on loose surfaces to enhance grip as the vehicle goes around a turn.
With the ‘father of KODO Design’, Ikuo Maeda (Head of Mazda Design) having expressed a hope that KODO design will exist ‘forever’, it is also adopted for the CX-50. As with each new model, there is a bit of evolution in the design language and the design elements are geared toward a more rugged image.
Riding on a new platform also used for the latest Mazda3 and CX-30, the CX-50 is slightly longer than the CX-5 as well as wider. However, the roofline is closer to the road and the designers have put on roof rails. While roof rails on many SUVs are more for looks, those on the CX-50 are said to be high-strength and, along with reinforced B-pillars and door jambs, allow equipment to be securely stowed on the roof. For those who have more gear, Mazda also offers a roof carrier as an option.
As with other current Mazdas, the cabin has a premium look with functionality that would be welcome by those who do venture off-road. The generous height and length contribute to the spacious cargo area and perhaps some of the useful lessons gained from working with Ford on the jointly developed Escape/Tribute years ago have been recalled. A new panoramic moonroof, a first for Mazda, brings the sky in, again something that will be especially appreciated off-road.
As the model is intended mainly for the North American market, it is unlikely that it will be offered in Malaysia by Bermaz. However, it might eventually appear in a later generation as the current single-digit number range transitions into the double-digit one in later years as Mazda clearly would not be having dual model ranges for too long. That has already happened with the CX-30, with the CX-3 to be discontinued in some markets next year.
To know more about Mazda models available in Malaysia, visit www.mazda.com.my.
Japanese carmakers built their reputation on reliable, economical and affordable small cars and for most of the world (with the exception of America), they captured big market shares. However, in Europe, while their small cars were successful and popular, they faced a big challenge in the supermini A-segment. This was where European carmakers had popular products and were pretty well entrenched.
Prior to the 1990s, some European countries like France, Spain, Portugal and Italy had formal and informal quotas on imports of Japanese cars to limit their threat. As in America, the Japanese carmakers began to build factories in Europe as a way to get behind the barriers. Eventually, as the World Trade Organisation forced upon countries the requirement to drop barriers, the issue of quotas became less pursued.
First generation of the Aygo
But the market had also changed by the beginning of the 21st century and collaboration was necessary as it was very costly to develop a model and then to have sufficient volumes to justify the investments. Even Toyota, which had often chosen to control its destiny alone, found it pragmatic to cooperate with other carmakers.
One of these joint ventures was with Groupe PSA, the parent company of Peugeot and Citroen, which saw the opening of a factory in the Czech Republic. Established in 2002, the factory, owned 50:50, was known as Toyota Peugeot Citroen Automobile Czech (TPCA) and was used to produce a supermini that would be marketed by Peugeot, Toyota and also Citroen. The model, jointly developed, was known as the Aygo and Peugeot called theirs the 107 while Citroen’s was badged as the C1.
The factory in the Czech Republic, which started as Toyota Peugeot Citroen Automobile Czech but is now Toyota Motor Manufacturing Czech Republic after the Japanese carmaker took over Groupe PSA’s 50% share in January this year.
The combined sales volume of the three models reached a peak of almost 340,000 units in 2009 and it sold well enough that a second generation was introduced in 2014. However, this will be the last generation of the common model as Groupe PSA (which is now in the Stellantis Group) has decided to cease the collaboration. At the same time, TPCA was also taken over entirely by Toyota in January this year.
Having been in the market for 7 years now, the Aygo might seem like it’s reaching the end of its generation cycle but that has not stopped Toyota from coming out with a brand new variant. This is the Aygo X launched this week and it is a response to the continuing demand for crossovers.
Designed mainly in Europe, it’s still a city car but has additional versatility. As with many of the latest Toyota models, it also uses TNGA – Toyota Global New Architecture – and specifically the GA-B platform first introduced with the latest European Yaris and more recently, the Yaris Cross.
“Since the Aygo first arrived in the market in 2005, not only has it been Toyota’s most accessible car in Europe, it also delighted customers with its youthful and fun character. Not only has it brought many new customers to Toyota. It also fulfils our mission to provide everyone with the right mobility solution,” said Andrea Carlucci, Vice-President, Product & Marketing, Toyota Motor Europe, adding that the A-segment is very important to the company.
The Aygo X is the production version of the Aygo X prologue shown in March this year. The concept car was developed at Toyota’s European Design and Development (ED2) in France. Feedback on the concept car helped the designers at Toyota Motor Europe’s styling division in Belgium to fine-tune the product and take it from concept to reality.
The Aygo X uses the dramatic spice colour concept of the prototype with a bi-tone black roof to create a unique graphic profile. A wedged roofline also increases the dynamic feeling for a sportier image. In the front, high-tech lamps hug the upper bonnet to form a wing-like shape, while lower to the ground, the large grille, foglamps and skidplate all build on the double trapezoid theme that is part of Aygo’s identity.
“The bi-tone of the Aygo X immediately grabs people’s attention. It’s clearly not just a detail. It’s an integral part of the design,” explained Anastasiia Stoliarova, Aygo X Product Planner.
The spice theme is not just on the exterior as interior highlights match the bodywork’s spice colours to give a distinctive design to the cockpit, including the dashboard and centre consoles. On the seats can be seen an ‘X’ symbol discreetly stitched right into the fabric. The Aygo X model name is also subtly echoed in the keen look headlamps to provide a strong and coherent identity.
Toyota isn’t offering an ‘Edition 1’ (as some carmakers do) but, for the first 6 months after going on sale in 2022, there will be a ‘spicier’ limited edition Aygo X in Cardamom. This features additional matte Mandarina accents in orange throughout the car with accent stripes on the exterior and on the bespoke 18-inch matte black alloy wheels. The Mandarina theme is also carried through the interior panels and seat fabric design.
As with other Aygo models, the Aygo X is powered by a 1-litre, 3-cylinder engine. Coupled to a new S-CVT transmission, it is claimed to be able to do 21.3 kms/litre.
In adapting the GA-B platform for the Aygo X, the A-segment contender has evolved into a credible crossover product. It has a modified and downsized rear chassis section with reduced front and rear overhangs. The 3700 mm long Aygo X has less front overhang than the Yaris, and has an exceptionally small turning circle of 4.7 metres.
The total body width is 125 mm more than an Aygo, which has allowed the front seats to be moved 20 mm further apart and increasing shoulder space. Luggage space is claimed to be segment-leading with 125 mm more floor length and a smart space design behind the rear seats. Up to 231 litres of cargo volume is available.
The ‘Pagoda’ roof design maintains compact overall dimensions, while providing comfortable, spacious cabin for driver and passengers. And the sky’s the limit, so to speak, with the optional retractable canvas top, a first for an A-segment crossover. The canvas top, of high quality materials, offers improved water and dust protection and has a wind deflector structure.
In the 1970s, a company called Asia Motor was the first distributor of Mazda and Peugeot cars in Malaysia. It handled the two brands (and even assembled some models at its own plant) until the late 1980s when other companies took over each brand. Then in the early 2000s, both brands somehow ended up being taken on by the same company – Cycle & Carriage – which sold their cars till 2008. Mazda was then taken up by Bermaz while Peugeot went to Nasim Motors.
An advertisement from the 1970s when a company called Asia Motor sold both Peugeot and Mazda cars.
Now, history seems to be repeating itself as the Mazda and Peugeot brands are again being handled by the same company or rather, the same group. Late last year, Bermaz formed a new joint venture company with Berjaya Corporation known as Berjaya Auto Alliance Sdn Bhd (BAASB) which was appointed to the new role of Peugeot distributor. The BAASB name has since changed to Bermaz Auto Alliance Sdn Bhd and the company which imports the vehicles is Mega Galeri Sdn Bhd. While BAASB and Bermaz Motor are separate companies, the core people are the same and they are veterans in the auto industry.
Following its appointment, BAASB was busy setting up the new business which was interrupted by the pandemic and long lockdown period, delaying some plans. But since mid-August when the government began to relax restrictions and businesses could operate again, BAASB has been busy preparing to launch new models.
Meanwhile, in January this year, Peugeot’s parent company, Groupe PSA, had merged with the FCA Group (which has Chrysler and a number of Italian brands) to form Stellantis. While this did not really affect BAASB, it did see the change of ownership of the plant in Kedah which was originally bought over from the NAZA Group by Groupe PSA. The intention was to use the plant as a regional hub for Peugeot models and this was already underway.
Peugeot 5008Peugeot 3008
2008 to join locally-assembled range
Currently, three models are being assembled at the plant – the 3008, 5008 and 2008, the latter to be launched in the near future. With no more restrictions on gatherings and crossing borders, BAASB wasted no time organizing a media event to introduce themselves, the Stellantis people and the new 3008 and 5008 with a quick drive to Genting Highlands and back.
Both the SUVs are not new to the market, the 3008 having been introduced in second generation form in 2017, and the 5008 in 2018. However, they have received updates since their original introductions which adopt the latest design language of the carmaker. While the overall styling is unchanged, the notable differences can be seen in the front end. The grille is new with a large mass of textured elements and no frame.
The Peugeot Lion is also new and unlike previous ones, only its head is now shown (for corporate materials but the full body remains on the products). This is 11th time since the 1850s (although the original company was founded in 1810) that the brand identity and logo have been changed and the recreated emblem is said to ‘a shift in stance; a new state of mind, and a new lifestyle’. Above the Lion, on the edge of the bonnet, is the model identifier.
As their first digit indicates, the 3008 and 5008 are positioned at different levels in the market with the ‘double 00’ used for models that have a taller body structure, which means SUVs and crossovers. Comparing the two, the 3008 has a sleeker profile with bold lines whereas the 5008, being a 7-seater, is essentially an MPV but can also pass as a SUV. Both cars certainly have a premium appearance which is not unexpected of European brands.
Same engine for both models
To simplify production, both models use the same engine (for now at least) which is the same 1.6-litre THP 4-cylinder unit that came with the original introduction. Power output is 167 ps with 240 Nm of torque and the 6-speed automatic transmission is also the same one supplied by Aisin. To optimize grip on different surfaces, there are 5 modes which the driver can choose using a rotary dial.
Known as Advanced Grip Control, the system has been available in some Peugeot models since 2013 and adjusts the grip and torque to the front wheels. It helps most on very slippery surfaces when there is a need to be more sensitive with the throttle and a computer can do that better than a human foot. In most cases, drivers can probably leave it in standard mode which will be fine for most conditions.
Peugeot i-Cockpit
The highlight of the interior which Peugeot usually starts off with is the i-Cockpit. First introduced in 2012, this dashboard concept has evolved over the years and in the 3008 and 5008, it has been fully digitized. Peugeot calls the 12.3-inch digi-graphic instrument panel a ‘head-up instrument panel’ which might have people looking for the head-up display (HUD) on the windscreen ahead. However, what Peugeot’s designers have done is to position the panel in such a way that it allows the driver to keep his head up to watch the road ahead as well as still see the information on the panel.
An important contributor to the effectiveness of this arrangement is the steering wheel which is compact and flat at the top and bottom (looks like something from a racing car). It allows a clear view of the display and though compact, there is surprising ease of maneuverability. With the arms no longer needing to be so open and wide to hold the steering wheel, the actual amount of movement during maneuvers is reduced. Incidentally, for the 5008, there are also paddle shifters.
The third element of the i-Cockpit is a display in the middle of the dashboard. Resembling a tablet, this has a high-resolution full colour screen which is now 10 inches instead of 8 inches wide. It provides supplementary information and can be accessed either by touching the screen or by using the row of ‘piano keys’ below.
Connectivity is extensive with conventional cable ports, Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility (for Android Auto, a cable is needed and, of course, the app installed in the smartphone). Those who have the latest smartphones with wireless charging will also be pleased to find that there is a wireless charging pad added to the vehicles.
Comprehensive equipment list
With the Mazda range, the Bermaz team has always made it a point to offer the most comprehensive equipment level possible to give the best value for money. The same thinking seems to have gone into the 3008 and 5008 (available only in one version) as standard equipment includes a panoramic sunroof, handsfree powered tailgate, power adjustments for the front seats, leather upholstery, and dual zone air-conditioning.
The differences in overall length – 4670 mm for the 5008 and 4510 mm for the 3008 – are indicative of the different occupant capacity. In the case of the longer model, there is a third row of two seats which can be folded flat when not needed. While being flat when not in use is good, it does not mean that the seat is sitting right down on the boot floor with limited legroom.
The extra length of the 5008 gives it a minimum of 952 litres of boot volume, 361 litres more than the 3008. At maximum volume with the rear seats folded down, the 3008’s volume can go up to 1,670 litres while the 5008 has an expansive 2,042 litres.
As for safety, both models have been rated the maximum of 5 stars by EuroNCAP and should certainly be able to achieve the same if assessed by ASEAN NCAP. There are extensive active and passive safety systems which assist the driver but no integrated system which we are seeing in many other cars these days.
BRIEF DRIVING EXPERIENCES
We had a chance to try both models driving Genting Highlands and back to the BAASB headquarters at Glenmarie, Selangor. Although it’s been a while since being behind the wheel of these French cars, there was still a familiarity in feel that Peugeots uniquely have. It’s a feeling of stability and supple ride that you do not expect of a car that also handles well. A Peugeot engineer once suggested that it’s long experience in suspension tuning that has achieved that and something to do with damper valving.
The driving dynamics are competent and confidence-inspiring with a solid feel at all speeds. The THP engine delivers strong midrange which made for easy overtaking and the transmission’s operation was fairly unobtrusive. Between the 3008 and 5008, the smaller model felt nicer to drive with less roll and a bit more nimbleness. This could be largely due to the 100+ kg difference in weight more than the body size.
But unlike older Peugeots (and older cars in general), today’s new generation of cars have a lot of electronic systems and because electronics do not take up much space, many more features are crammed in. To use them, you need to spend a little while figuring out which button to press or how to bring up the menu on the screen.
It can be daunting at first and European manufacturers have different control approaches to the Japanese. So if you are switching from a Japanese model to a Peugeot, be prepared to have to relearn many things! But having said that, once you become familiar with all the controls, then they make driving more convenient.
The i-Cockpit layout – specifically the instrument panel – is ergonomically sound in concept but also needs a bit of getting used to as it is located differently from conventional instrument panels. The display can be configured from minimal to maximum information, depending on your preference.
One thing that is disconcerting is the tachometer and this has been the case since the first i-Cockpit. The sweep of the pointer does not follow convention, ie from left to right. Instead, for some sort of visual symmetry, it sweeps from right to left. In the early versions with traditional meter displays, it was sometimes disturbing to see the pointer somewhere at the 2 o’clock position which would usually mean you are running at high revs but actually, the revs are around 3,000 rpm.
With the latest graphic display, this is less disturbing because the calibrations are not show entirely and only a small segment before and after are shown. But as mentioned earlier, it’s a matter of getting used to this difference and after a while, an owner will be okay. For us who spend only a couple of hours with the car, that familiarity is not always achieved.
It’s the same as having signal stalks on the left side or right side and getting into a car where it is on the opposite side to what you are used to. You keep activating the wipers and curse a lot for a while but after a week or so, you no longer have that problem.
Want to buy one?
Both models are offered with a choice of three common colours (Amazonite Grey, Pearl White and Nera Black) and Cuprite Brown exclusively for the 3008, with Emerald Crystal only for the 5008. Pricing starts from RM161,616.66 for the 3008 and RM177,311.90 for 5008 without insurance. As they are both assembled in Malaysia, the government is exempting the full amount of sales tax until June 30, 2022 so you save some money.
For those who are wondering about aftersales service, we feel sure that the BAASB team will certainly be making sure that it is of the high quality appropriate to the brand. They’re giving free maintenance for the first 3 years (or maximum of 60,000 kms) as well as a 5-year warranty or maximum of 100,000 kms.
Information on showroom locations can be found at www.peugeot.com.my and if you are already owning a Peugeot, BAASB would really like to get your contact details. This will enable them to keep in touch with you and provide the aftersales support, especially if there are any technical updates available for your car.
Honda Malaysia today announced the availability of a limited number of Honda HR-V Special Edition models with enhanced safety features. The limited edition SE version comes with Blind Spot Detection (BSD) to detect and alert the driver of vehicles or motorcyclists coming up in the blind spot behind and along the sides.
While Honda has installed the camera-based LaneWatch blindspot system in many models, the BSD for the HR-V SE is a simpler system using proximity sensors in the bodywork. When another vehicle is detected, the driver will be alerted so that he or she will not make a turn or change lanes and cause an accident.
Other active safety features
Additional safety features using the same sensors in the bodywork include Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) which monitors the traffic situation on either side as the vehicle is reversing out of a parking bay. This is especially useful as the driver often cannot see the road on either side because the view is blocked by other vehicles. RCTA sends out signals on both sides from the bumper sensors and if a vehicle is approaching, the driver will receive a warning and can then stop the vehicle’s movement.
The sensors that are used for BSD are also used for the Door Opening Warning system, a feature that has appeared in recent years. It may not be a very common accident but people still do open doors without checking behind and can cause an accident. If the sensors pick up an approaching object – like a cyclist – the occupant will be warned just before opening the door.
There is also Lane Change Assist (LCA) which will make it safer for the driver when intending to move into another lane. This should not be mistaken for the Lane Keeping Assist which is one of the technologies in the Honda SENSING driver assistance suite. From what we can gather, LCA is an extension of BSD and helps the driver change lanes when it is safe to do so.
Extra equipment
Apart from the enhancements in safety, the HR-V SE doesn’t have any other technical differences from the 1.8-litre versions. However, a Digital Video Recorder (more commonly referred to as a dashcam), boot tray and boot organiser are included in the HR-V SE. The price of RM105,363.95 excludes insurance and sales tax (until the end of 2021) and includes a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty as well as free labour services (terms and conditions apply).
Visit www.honda.com.my or any authorised Honda showroom in Malaysia for more information.
It was no secret that the N7X Concept shown earlier in the year was a sneak preview of the new Honda BR-V (although the carmaker didn’t say so). Now Honda has finally unveiled the production model online from Indonesia where its global production hub is located. This is the second time that Indonesia is the location for the global debut of the model which was launched in August 2015. However, it was only in May 2017 that it was finally launched in Malaysia.
The second generation of the crossover SUV not only has fresh new looks but, just like the first City and the second one, it appears that Honda took in a lot of feedback from owners to make improvements to the model. Features which may have taken another generation before being available in the BR-V are included as well as the Honda SENSING driver assistance system.
Honda has not provided dimensions but from the pictures, it seems the new BR-V has grown very slightly, or it could be just the body lines giving that impression. The frontal appearance has gained a bolder look with a distinctive grille flanked by LED headlamps with LEF day running lights. The rear end has new combination lights with LED Light Bars designed to blend in with the body line.
Like the first generation, the second generation of the BR-V also has generous ground clearance. This is something which carmakers who understand the Indonesian market know is an important point. Besides rough roads in the rural areas, there are also floods and being able to cross deep water is appreciated.
Global debut of the first generation in 2015. Honda N7X Concept shown earlier this year as a preview of the new BR-V.
The original concept of the BR-V was to combine the design and toughness of an SUV and within, offer the cabin comfort and functionality of an MPV. This concept is retained for the second generation with increased comfort levels and more functionality. There are three rows of seats for up to 7 persons. The use of leather lining has also been added in the cabin for a more premium feel. Storage areas have been increased too, with more power outlets. The driver is provided all the necessary information on a 4.2-inch Thin-Film Transistor (TFT) display, supplemented by a 7-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system.
Owners of the new BR-V will enjoy more convenience with features such as Remote Engine Start, Walk-Away Auto Lock function, Smart Entry System and auto-folding door mirrors. With the auto-lock function, the doors will lock automatically when the driver has walked at least 2 metres or more from the car.
In safety too, the new BR-V makes a big leap with the inclusion of Honda SENSING. This is a suite of assistance systems to help the driver avoid an accident or act automatically to prevent the accident. These systems, already available in the other models, include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping, automatic emergency braking and automatic headlight high beam control. Also included now are Hill Start Assist, Vehicle Stability Assist and side airbags (besides the front ones).
Also of note is the addition of Honda LaneWatch, a blindspot monitoring system that makes use of a camera on the left side of the car. The mirror is mounted on the door mirror and captures real-time imagery of the area along the side of the car, displaying it on the screen on the dashboard. It is only active when the left turn signal is on, and the imagery is clear even at night.
The new BR-V continues to use a 1.5-litre DOHC i-VTEC petrol engine (improved, of course) with maximum output of 121 ps/145 Nm. Customers can choose a manual transmission or a new CVT which delivers power to the front wheels.
Over 255,000 units have been sold since the model was launched in Indonesia, of which around 30% were delivered in the Indonesian market. While the City is Honda Malaysia’s strongest seller, the BR-V has also had its own following among families with its 7-person cabin and entry-level pricing. Until July this year, over 35,000 units have been assembled in Malaysia.
Honda Malaysia has mentioned that a new model will be launched before the year ends and this new one could be it. Given the need to pump up interest for people to shop for cars again, Honda Malaysia is unlikely to wait two years to launch the new BR-V, as was the case with the first generation.
To know more about Honda models in Malaysia, visit www.honda.com.my.
Various carmakers have been laying claim to offering the ‘fastest SUV’ and certainly they are all very fast machines. But once a tuner like BRABUS decides to also join in the quest for bragging rights, all best can be off. As an independent tuner without the demands of having to produce large volumes, BRABUS can push the envelope further and it has done this with another 900 ROCKET EDITION, this one derived from the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC+ Coupe. An earlier 900 ROCKET EDITION was based on the Mercedes-AMG G63.
Unveiled today at the Monaco Yacht Show, this is the world’s fastest street-legal SUV with a top speed of 330 km/h. Only 25 units will be available, each priced from 381,243 euros (ex-factory from Germany) which converts to almost RM1.875 million.
The super SUV’s V8 engine having increased displacement to 4407 cc (from 3982 cc). This has been achieved by enlarging the piston bores. With the addition of an efficient high-performance forced induction system, this engine produces a peak output of up to 888 bhp and can generate 1,250 Nm of torque but is limited to 1,050 Nm.
The higher output enables the 900 ROCKET EDITION to get to 100 km/h from standstill in a claimed 3.2 seconds. The real top speed is not known as BRABUS has put in an electronic speed-limiter that doesn’t allow the car to go beyond 330 km/h.
The 900 ROCKET EDITION will definitely not be mistaken for the car it is derived from with exposed-carbonfibre aerodynamic-enhancement components and the custom BRABUS wheels (24-inch Monoblock Z PLATINUM EDITION forged wheels) with carbonfibre aero-discs.
The engine modification also includes larger downpipes with a diameter of 75 mm as well as metal catalysts and special particulate filters. The stainless sport exhaust system with integrated exhaust flaps and two BRABUS titanium/carbonfibre tailpipes protrude on either side of the vehicle. The system offers an active sound management with a throaty V8 sound when the system is open or a subtle whisper in ‘Coming Home’ mode so you don’t wake the neighbours.
The BRABUS control module for the air suspension, which lowers the ride height by about 25 mm, additionally contributes to the outstandingly agile handling for an SUV. It not only gives the all-wheel car a more thrilling visual stance, but also further enhances the driving dynamics thanks to lowering the centre of gravity.
Inside the 4×4 fastback SUV, there are the usual signature fine leather appointments with many personalisation options available for customers. In the first unit shown in the pictures, there is grey leather upholstery matching the outer skin. The seat centre sections and the inner sections of the door panels feature square quilting applied with pinpoint precision and additional perforations.
To match the red brake calipers and the two likewise red signature stripes in the radiator grille, the leather features red contrasting highlights. In addition, all trim pieces in the cockpit sport red glazing. The same colour is also used for the pedals, door pins and the RACE paddle shifters on the steering wheel.
Being the specialist that it is, with a history of almost 45 years, BRABUS has the engineering expertise to upgrade performance reliably and safely. They are confident in what they do and give a 3 years/100,000 kms Tuning Warranty for the ROCKET 900 EDITION.
Vaccination does not make you immune to COVID-19 infection. You can still get infected but you may not show symptoms or feel sick – but you can spread the coronavirus to others. Do not stop taking protective measures such as wearing a facemask, washing hands frequently and social distancing.
It’s been a while since we heard about updates for the Mazda range distributed in Malaysia by Bermaz Motor. The last time was in April for the latest MX-5 RF and Mazda6, and a month earlier, the company also announced that bookings for the new CX-3 were accepted.
Now comes the updated CX-9, flagship of Mazda’s SUV range, which gets cosmetic as well as technical upgrades. The 3-row SUV is available in two variants – 2WD and AWD – both using the SKYACTIV-G 2.5 turbocharged petrol engine with an output of 228 ps/420 Nm and a 6-speed SKYACTIV-Drive automatic transmission.
Peninsular Malaysia pricing (without insurance and with 50% exemption on sales tax) is from RM319,847.40 for the 2WD variant and RM336,215.40 for the AWD variant. All new vehicles come with a 5-year warranty (or maximum of 100,000 kms) and also free maintenance service for the first 5 years (or maximum of 100,000 kms).
Mazda SKYACTIV-G engine
The 2021 CX-9 is now available in the ‘Ignite Edition’ which features gloss black door outer mirrors, gloss black for the new front grille design, and 20-inch black metallic aluminium alloy wheels as standard. LED headlights with auto-levelling, LED daytime running lights and taillights, and rain-sensing windshield wipers are also standard. Body colours available are Soul Red Crystal, Machine Gray, Snowflake White Pearl, Sonic Silver, Deep Crystal Blue and Jet Black.
The interior features burgundy-coloured leather seats and black interior trim on the dash, door panels and handle bezels. The infotainment system now has wireless Apple CarPlay along with Android Auto capabilities for easier connectivity with smartphones. Also new are a wireless charger (if you have a phone with the capability) and paddle shifters.
Other standard features include a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, 3-zone automatic climate control, 10 power adjustments for the driver’s seat with memory positioning, interior LED accents, Bluetooth handsfree phone and audio pairing, keyless entry and push-button start.
As the flagship model, the CX-8 gets an advanced package of safety systems which Mazda calls i-Activsense. These help the driver to avoid accidents and can also automatically respond in dangerous situations by applying the brakes. Mazda Radar Cruise Control allows the driver to enjoy long-distance motoring as a safe gap will always be maintained even when a speed has been set for cruising.
Other systems in i-Activesense include Adaptive LED Headlights, Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning with Lane-Keep Assist and Driver Attention Alert.
To know more about the new CX-9 and other Mazda models in Malaysia, visit www.mazda.com.my.
While SUVs are still very popular around the world, the designs have settled on a few common forms, depending on the segment. For Citroen, which has long designed its cars with a degree of uniqueness, looking for a new styling concept was the challenge given to the designers. The new model would have to combine the modernity and appeal of an SUV, the elegance and status of a saloon, and the versatility and practicality of a station wagon.
SUV with alternative design concept
Their proposal is the new C5 X which meets the expectations of customers wanting large tourers and those who are also looking for a more modern and stylish alternative to more traditional SUV’s, saloon and stationwagon models. “With the all-new C5 X, Citroen is revisiting the spirit of touring – the ability to travel in an elegant, refined car and set off to discover the world with complete peace of mind,” said Vincent Cobee, CEO of Citroen.
The bodystyle of the C5 X is muscular with optimised aerodynamics to reduce fuel consumption, with a streamlined profile drawing inspiration from aeronautics. The fluidity of the bodystyle is emphasised by the car’s tight, muscular volume. The extended bonnet, the high beltline and the rear wheel flare give it distinction, dynamism and sturdiness, common among Citroen’s larger vehicles.
The streamlined profile combines with a raised ride height and large diameter alloy wheels to give a more commanding view than would be available in a saloon or stationwagon. Around the wheel arches, vertical surfacing detail enhances the vehicle’s character. They highlight the large-diameter wheels while ensuring that air flows along the length of the body.
Coupe-inspired roofline
The elongated coupe-inspired sloping roofline ends with a ‘floating’ aerodynamic spoiler to further enhance the dynamic silhouette. The impression of a ‘floating roof’ is further enhanced through gloss black a-pillars, door pillar trims and dark tinted rear. As an option, customers choose a bi-tone Perla Nera Black roof for a more stylish appearance.
The LED V-shaped lighting signature representing Citroen’s new identity echoes the 3D rear light signature for greater consistency. The upper chevrons highlight the end of the bonnet and stretch right up to the LED daytime running lights, highlighting the width of the front end. The lower chevrons stretch up to the LED headlights and daytime running lights for a high-tech look.
A close look at the lighting signature will reveal real attention to detail. Small light veins create a graphic chevron design in the headlights that highlight the car’s look and reinforce the signature, particularly from the front three-quarter view.
The bonnet is long and horizontal, and positioned fairly low with pair of large scalloped design details, reminiscent of the latest C4 and C5 Aircross SUV. The lower air intake, highlighted by a chrome strip, has a highly geometric design – one that draws inspiration from chevrons – and houses the main radar used for the car’s driving aids.
Stationwagon practicality at the rear
To the rear of C5 X, dual spoilers combine to give a very dynamic look. This, combined with the steeply raked tailgate window design, helps to continue the flowing silhouette. Further details – such as the crisp lines around the lower part of the tailgate and bumper coupled with the lower chevron pattern and the chrome decoration around the reflectors – emphasise the vehicle’s width.
The rear of the car is also designed to be practical and provide more volume for the driver, offering stationwagon levels of modularity. The tailgate provides a wide and functional opening with a low loading sill.
Plug-in hybrid powertrain
The powerful 225 ps plug-in hybrid powertrain is claimed to give a range of up to 55 kms. Combustion engines will still be available but Citroen is not providing information on them yet.
Other technical details available at this time include Citroen’s Advanced Comfort Active Suspension system, with the cabin having a lounge-like interior space and Advanced Comfort seats
Production of the C5 X will start towards the end of this year with first deliveries starting during the first quarter of 2022.
Vaccination does not make you immune to COVID-19 infection. You can still get infected and you may not show symptoms but spread the coronavirus. Do not stop taking protective measures such as wearing a facemask, washing hands frequently and social distancing.
