During the ongoing Japan Mobility Show, Honda surprised enthusiasts with the unveiling of the new-age Prelude Concept. While Honda has not yet confirmed whether the Prelude Concept will lead to a production model, this move follows Acura’s revival of the Integra nameplate, leaving the door open for Honda to make a similar comeback.
The Prelude concept stands out from its predecessors, as it departs from the traditional compact two-door coupe design. Instead, the new model is considerably larger, in line with contemporary vehicle sizes.
From the front, the Prelude Concept could easily be mistaken for a new Toyota model, possibly part of the new Crown family. It features sharp headlights connected by an LED light bar located just above the space where a license plate would be situated. The lower bumper section is adorned in black with a mesh pattern and a small vertical design element finished in blue.
The side profile aligns more closely with the Prelude legacy. It displays small black wing mirrors, flush door handles, angular rocker panels, and gloss black wheels with blue brake calipers hinting at its performance potential. The roofline tapers towards the rear, although Honda has yet to reveal the full rear view of the concept.
Honda has provided limited details about the Prelude Concept. It describes the model as “sporty” and promises to deliver “the joy of driving” and “provide extraordinary excitement that you have never felt before.” While Honda has confirmed that the model is electric, it has not disclosed further information about its powertrain.
As it stands, Honda’s Prelude Concept represents a bold step into the future, embracing the evolving design language and technology to deliver an electrifying driving experience.
Additional specifications and the production future of the Prelude Concept have not been confirmed by Honda at this early stage.
Honda Malaysia has made an announcement offering buyers the opportunity to drive home the popular Honda City B-segment sedan with a 100% loan option, completely eliminating the need for an initial downpayment. This incredible offer stands in contrast to the typical 90% loan and 10% downpayment arrangement.
Participating Banks: The partner banks facilitating this groundbreaking offer are Maybank and Bank Muamalat. Potential buyers will, of course, need to meet the loan qualifications to take advantage of this opportunity. It’s essential to note that the offer pertains exclusively to the Honda City sedan, and there is no mention of the City Hatchback in this deal.
Honda, a long-time player in the hybrid car realm, is venturing further into the world of electric vehicles (EVs) with the upcoming 2024 Honda Prologue. This marks a significant step for Honda, known for its environmentally conscious automobiles, as it delves deeper into full electrification. The Prologue, a Honda Passport-sized crossover, is Honda’s substantial foray into the EV market.
Power and Platform
The 2024 Honda Prologue will share the Ultium platform and battery with electric GM models like the Chevrolet Blazer EV. However, Honda is confident that its unique suspension tuning, styling, and cabin design will distinguish the Prologue and appeal to potential customers. The SUV will boast an 85.0-kilowatt-hour battery, providing a manufacturer-estimated range of 482km for the most efficient versions.
The Prologue will be available in single- and dual-motor variants, with the all-wheel-drive version generating 288hp and 451Nm of torque, promising a satisfying performance.
In 2023, Honda celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Honda Civic, a significant milestone for the brand. Additionally, it marked 25 years since the introduction of Honda’s iconic high-performance Type R model, which had made a lasting impact on enthusiasts and the automotive market.
To commemorate this special year, Honda introduced the new Civic Type R in September 2022. This latest iteration was unveiled as the most powerful Type R model ever produced, showcasing Honda’s dedication to performance and innovation.
Honda Malaysia has finally introduced the new Type R into the Malaysian market. Building on the foundation of the 11th generation Civic hatchback, the new Civic Type R represented a significant leap forward. It incorporated advanced technologies inspired by motorsport, enabling it to surpass the performance capabilities of even the stripped-down, lightweight versions of the previous model.
The exterior design of the new FL5 Civic Type R emphasizes unity and simplicity, showcasing uncluttered details on the front and rear bumpers. Integrated design features, like the rear doors and arches, have been specifically developed for the Type R, not only enhancing the aesthetics but also providing improved aerodynamic benefits.
The Type R’s design is optimised for aerodynamics, enhancing performance. The large lower grille, with a larger fan behind it, effectively channels airflow to the engine. This design is complemented by a subtle bonnet featuring a vent to further enhance airflow around the front end.
In addition, strategic design elements contribute to superior aerodynamics. Large aperture vents positioned behind the front wheels and a larger rear diffuser, seamlessly integrated into the under-floor and coordinated with the bodywork above, all play a role in maximising the aerodynamic efficiency of the car.
The Pilot Sport 4S tyres for the Type R were created by Honda and Michelin in partnership and have a 265/30 profile, making them 20 mm wider than earlier models. The “reverse rim” design of the 19-inch wheels these tyres are attached to efficiently reduce deformation on the inside of the wheel and improve the stability of the tyre contact patch, especially while under load.
This set of wheels and tyres results in a 12.7mm larger rear track and a front track that is 25mm wider. The new model’s body is 20mm longer and 15mm wider when the FL hatchback base and Type R-specific external design components are combined.
The Civic Type R flaunts a bold rear spoiler design, not only enhancing downforce but also minimizing air resistance due to its rearward angulation. The spoiler is mounted lower and wider compared to the previous model, providing a sleeker roofline and a broader stance. Reinforced by new aluminium die-cast mounts, this rear wing is a notable aerodynamic feature.
Beneath the vented aluminium bonnet lies a potent version of Honda’s K20C1 engine. Key performance metrics like horsepower, torque, and responsiveness have been elevated through a redesigned turbocharger, heightened air intake flow rate, and an upgraded exhaust system boasting a straight-through design and an active exhaust valve. Optimisations in the turbocharger’s turbine wheel blades, size, shape, and intake charge flow path enable efficient pressure generation in a broader range. These enhancements collectively contribute to an impressive powertrain.
A considerable update has been made to the turbocharged 2-litre 4-cylinder DOHC VTEC engine, which now produces an astounding 319PS at 6,500 rpm and a hefty 420Nm between 2,600 and 4,000 rpm. The Type R is now firmly established as one of the most powerful cars in its class thanks to this improvement.
A crisp and exciting 6-speed manual gearbox is included with the Type R. It should be noted that this gearbox has been improved, with a lighter flywheel and a new rev-match mechanism. The rev-matching technology, which is beautifully timed with downshifts, aids in corner entrance stability.
Hyper-precise gear changes are made possible by the gearbox’s fortification with high-strength parts, such as a high-rigidity lever and an improved shift gate layout. A typical helical-type limited-slip differential also effectively transmits the engine’s power to the road, improving overall performance.
The Type R provides a dynamic driving experience through selectable performance modes that allow the driver to tailor the car’s behaviour according to their preferences. These modes encompass engine, steering, suspension, and engine sound settings. The available pre-set modes include Comfort, Sport, and +R. In addition to these, a new ‘Individual Mode’ has been introduced, granting the driver the ability to customise various driving parameters to achieve a personalised and optimal driving experience.
The cabin is aesthetically pleasing and has been built with performance in mind. Along with the recognisable red seats, carpet, and trim, it also has a newly designed aluminium shift knob and a serialised Type R plate on the dashboard as distinguishing elements.
The cockpit was designed with performance driving in mind, and it has a new digital instrument cluster with crisp, easy-to-read visuals and a variety of display settings. It is notable for having a large tachometer, a display for the gear position, and a multi-information display.
The engine rpm and gear position are put at the top of a second new metre that is only available in Type R’s +R mode, giving the driver immediate access to the information they need. During performance driving, an illuminated rev indicator with a racing theme is situated above the gauge cluster to offer the driver a rapid indication of engine rpm.
A new 9-inch Colour Touchscreen, the biggest touchscreen ever in a Type R, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, is just one example of how technology has been thoughtfully incorporated into the redesigned cabin with an emphasis on the driver.
Additionally standard are a Bose Centrepoint premium sound system that was specifically designed for the Civic’s interior and wireless charging that is Qi compliant.
A newly improved Honda LogR Performance Datalogger that is exclusive to the Type R combines the onboard computer and sensors of the car with a new built-in vehicle app, eliminating the need for a smartphone. When driving on a track or other closed courses, this aids drivers in monitoring and recording a number of performance metrics in real-time.
Because to the narrower pillars, repositioned side mirrors, and lower bonnet, the driver is seated more comfortably and with better visibility than before in a new, lighter, body-stabilizing performance seat. On the track and during extended journeys, the front sports seats’ lightweight, firmly bolstered design and suede-effect material provide great support and comfort.
The most powerful car sold by Honda Malaysia is priced at RM399,900 and for 2023, there will only be 19 units available for booking. The Type R will only come in Championship White and the lucky 19 Type R owners for 2023 will be announced by Honda Malaysia.
During the launch of the new facelifted Honda City, Honda Malaysia CEO Mr. Hironobu Yoshimura delivered the heart-wrenching news that the Honda Accord would no longer be available for sale in Malaysia. This announcement left many enthusiasts and customers heartbroken, marking the end of an era for the Honda Accord in the Malaysian market.
So for Malaysians, the 10th-generation Honda Accord, currently available in Malaysia, represents the final model that will be accessible in the country. However, in November 2022, the 11th-generation Honda Accord made its North American debut before going on sale in China. It hasn’t, however, been made available in its native Japan until recently.
Honda has revealed the details and availability of the Accord’s JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) hybrid-only model, which is scheduled to hit dealerships in the first quarter of 2024.
Back in July the WR-V received 2,500 orders and in August, Honda Malaysia delivered 2,200 of them. The WR-V quickly became Honda’s second best-selling model for July 2023.
The Honda WR-V is gaining popularity in Malaysia despite a slightly higher starting price compared to the City variants. While Honda aimed for 1,400 monthly sales, they’ve already delivered over 3,300 units of the WR-V within two months of launch, with total orders reaching 7,300 units. The RS trim is the most popular choice among customers.
When it comes to Honda, the most talked about models are the NSX, Civic and S2000. However, one legendary model is always left out -the Honda Prelude.
1987 Honda Prelude
The Prelude has been produced over five generations from 1978 to 2001. It was inspired by the Honda Accord and became the first Honda car to have a moonroof, which was included in all its models over the years.
In a recent update, Honda Malaysia has reported delivering 2,200 units of the all-new WR-V in just a single month following its official launch in July 2023.
The corporation additionally marked the first customer who placed a reservation for Honda’s compact SUV in Malaysia. This was observed through an official handover event held in early August at Accord Auto Sdn. Bhd. As a token of gratitude to mark this significant occurrence, the customer was granted Honda accessories, ultra glass body coating, and official merchandise, with a combined value of RM5,000.
During the launch of the new facelifted Honda City, one of the messages that Honda was keen to talk about is the new and improved Honda Connect App. It has been around for a while already, but it is not at its most matured form.
You may or may not have heard of the Honda Connect App, but either way, it is one of those applications that is worth having for your Honda these days.
It if offered as standard on selected Honda models, but for those who want to purchase it, it costs RM1,500. But before you dismiss it as exorbitant, it is an application that is worth considering.
The Honda Connect App predominantly focuses on three areas:
Safety
Security
Convenience
Safety
Under the safety part, the application is designed to be able to alert you or a loved in the event of a collision. This is important especially if the driver is unconscious. The app will detect that a collision has happened and a call centre will be alerted. The operators from the call centre will first try to reach out to the driver of the vehicle, and if the person does not answer, the call centre will then try to reach out to a second number provided.
In the event that the second person too does not answer, the call centre will immediately dispatch emergency services to the last known location. This is especially helpful when driving in a remote area.
The app is also able to inform the driver in the event that the alarm goes off. Alarms are great theft deterrents, but chances are the owner of a car will not be able to hear the alarm if the car is parked in a basement car park or somewhere far off. This is where the Honda Connect App is quite good because it alerts the driver when the alarm goes off, giving the owner precious minutes to rush to the car to see why the alarm went off.
Besides that, the owner of the Honda is also able to set a speed limit of the car, and will be alerted if the car goes beyond the set threshold. Perfect for parents who do not want their children or loved ones to be speeding, or even companies who need to implement health and safety policies, thus assisting to promote safety.
Security
Ever wondered around a car park wondering where you parked your car? We have all been there. This is where the Honda Connect App is especially handy because it has a “Find My Car” feature that is able to assist you to find your parked car. This is also great if your child has taken your car without informing you. If you are a parent, you’re welcome on the tip, if you’re a child, you may not like this feature.
One of our favourite features is something called Geo Fencing Alert. This allows you to set a paremeter of a few hundred meters or a maximum of 160km. And if the car goes beyond the set parameter, the application will alert you. This is especially handy for companies that need to keep track on where their cars are going.
But on a personal level, there’s a feature called Emergency Call. This feature connects the phone to the national emergency number – 999 – and when pressed, will immediately call the emergency number. This is great in parking lots, shopping malls or even in dark alleys at night. You don’t even need to be walking to your car but can use it anytime you feel threatened.
Convenience
So the app is more than just safety, security and controlling measures, it also allows incredible ownership convenience. It allows the owner to check on the car’s status, such as fuel level, battery level and everything about the car that an owner needs to know.
One interesting feature though is the Remote Vehicle Control. This allows the owner to remote start or stop a car, which is great if you need to be away for a few weeks and don’t want the battery of your car going flat. Yes, you can start the car and warm it up even if you are in a different country.
Does your wife need to get something from the car, but you accidentally took the keys with you and the spare key is dead? Yes, you can remotely unlock your car and no this does not mean she can start the car and drive away.
These are just some of the many features that the app has to offer, and some of the more notable ones include being able to locate the closet petrol station, ATM and even book a service appointment.
with all of the features on offer, the RM1,500 asking price suddenly seems like a good deal as it is not just an application, but consider it an automotive personal assistant.
Honda Malaysia has just introduced the 2023 Honda City facelift into the Malaysian market with the e:HEV RS being the top-of-the-line variant, priced at RM111,900.00.
