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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)

Ford brings back the Bronco, the original small SUV

Five years before the Suzuki Jimny and long before the Suzuki Vitara, Ford was already selling a small SUV. It was called the Bronco and appeared in the market in 1965, a time when Ford was still creating excitement with the Mustang that had been launched a year earlier. Although Americans love their vehicles big, the small (for that market) Bronco found a niche for itself and went through 5 generations until 1996 when production of the model ceased,

Today, with strong demand for smaller SUVs, Ford is getting in on the action with a new Bronco. Of course, it is a totally different vehicle from the original and where the Bronco name only referred to the model, Ford is now using it as a brand name for a family of SUVs.

“We created the Bronco family to elevate every aspect of off-road adventure and equipped them with class-leading chassis hardware and exclusive technologies to raise the bar in the rugged 4×4 segment and take people further into the wild,” said Jim Farley, Ford’s Chief Operating Officer. “They’re built with the toughness of an F-Series truck and performance spirit of Mustang – and come wrapped in one of the most stunning and functional off-road designs that’s true to the original Bronco design DNA.”

To go on sale in early 2021, the Bronco family comes in two sizes with 2-door and 4-door variants – a larger one and a smaller compact model that differentiated with ‘Sport’ added as a suffix. But both models have all the necessary systems and engineering to give them extensive off-road capability that justifies using the G.O.A.T. – for ‘Goes Over Any Terrain’ – nickname which the original Bronco had.

However, where the earlier generations used mostly mechanical systems, the latest one has many electrical, computer-managed systems that make driving on rough terrain easier and safer. The Terrain Management System with ‘G.O.A.T. Modes’ (probably something Ford engineers learnt when Land Rover was in the Ford group) has 7 driver-selectable modes to customise traction and engine systems for optimum performance over different surface conditions, to boost acceleration or even to economise on fuel. In Rock Crawl mode, the electronic power steering system is calibrated to provide more precise control and help reduce steering wheel disturbance during low-speed manoeuvres over rocky terrain.

“Bronco has the toughness and smarts to help turn off-road novices into 4×4 pros,” said Hau Thai-Tang, Ford’s Chief Product Development & Purchasing Officer. “Bronco embraces the needs of outdoor enthusiasts – every inch of it was designed and engineered with weekend adventurers in mind.”

2021 Ford Bronco — *Tough steel chassis for the roughest off-road driving*

The 4×4 systems are available in standard set-up and advanced. The standard system utilizes a 2-speed electronic shift-on-the-fly transfer case, while the optional advanced system features a 2-speed electromechanical transfer case that adds an auto mode for on-demand engagement to select between 2H and 4H. Electronic locking differentials for improved traction over rough terrain are available if customers want them.

Other driver assistance technologies include a Trail Toolbox which ‘elevates’ the off-road experience for Bronco. Trail Control provides cruise control for low-speed trail driving (up to 33 km/h forward and about 10 km/h in reverse). Trail Turn Assist tightens off-road turning radiuses through torque vectoring. The innovative Trail One-Pedal Drive acceleration/braking control makes for more precise and confident slow-mode rock crawling.

EcoBoost powertrains
Two EcoBoost engines are available with displacements of 2.3 litres and 2.7 litres. The smaller 4-cylinder engine has outputs of 270 bhp/420 Nm while the larger twin-turbo V6 generates 310 bhp/ 542 Nm. There’s a choice of a Getrag 7-speed (6 + 1 ‘crawler gear’) manual or 10-speed automatic transmission. A hybrid powertrain is in the product plan as well.

*One of the EcoBoost engines available.*

For the Bronco Sport, there’s a 2.0-litre EcoBoost 4-cylinder engine that produces 245 bhp/ 373 Nm and also a 1.5-litre EcoBoost unit with 181 bhp/258 Nm. Perhaps these two powertrains will be offered in export markets but at this time, Ford has not mentioned selling the Bronco outside North America and it’s uncertain if there will even be a righthand drive variant. They’ve lost interest in the Southeast Asian markets where there could be a potentially big volume, letting only the Ranger soldier on for the brand.

Every Bronco comes with an independent front suspension and at the rear, a rugged solid axle design featuring coil springs with 5 locating links. Long-travel position-sensitive Bilstein dampers with end-stop control valves at every corner are optionally available for added off-road durability and reduced harshness.

Also available is a semi-active hydraulic stabilizer bar disconnect design which provides maximum articulation and increased ramp angle index for off-camber terrain. This innovative system works by disconnecting during articulation; it can reconnect automatically under all conditions to improve steering and stability at higher speeds.

Ford claims segment-leading levels of off-road capability for the Bronco with 300 mm of ground clearance and water-crossing capability up to a depth of 850 mm. There’s a choice of tyre types and sizes up to 35 inches too.

The first design ideas for the modern Bronco started 16 years ago with the Bronco concept displayed at the 2004 North American International Auto Show. It drew inspiration from the original Bronco style with a slab-side chunky look that traditional SUVs had. In fact, Ford’s designers did a life-size digital scan of a first-generation model to understand its DNA. Incidentally, if you saw the movie Rampage in 2018, you would have seen that concept SUV being driven by Dwayne Johnson.

Ford Bronco Concept 2014 — *Ford Bronco Concept displayed in 2004.*

The production Bronco adopts much of the concept model’s design with modernised retro looks that include classic round headlights on either side of an encapsulated cartridge grille. The 2-door variants come with a standard 3-section roof system incorporating a modular top with four sections that adds a removable panel over the rear seats and cargo area. The 4-door versions have 4 removable roof sections.

A cloth soft top provides easy access to the open air and a unique tilt-up function for quick access to the rear cargo area. To further enable the ‘wide open’ feeling, every Bronco comes with frameless doors that are easily removed. On 4-door Broncos, all the doors can be stored onboard with protective door bags.

2021 Ford Bronco and 1965 Ford Bronco — *The modern Bronco and the original which was introduced in 1965*

“Similar to the first-generation model, Bronco’s square proportions, short overhangs and wide stance are optimized for off-road adventure,” said Paul Wraith, the SUV’s Chief Designer. “The side profile features a flat, no-nonsense surface with clear-cut edges and robustly flared fenders. Large, open wheel wells are a modular design with a quick-release attachment for simple customization.”

Purpose-built cabin
The multicolour LCD instrument panel is clearly inspired by the first-generation Bronco while the colours and materials are inspired by natural palettes and outdoor gear. With off-road functionality paramount, materials are tough and rugged. There are washable rubberized floors with integrated drains and marine-grade vinyl seating surfaces that resist mildew. Instrument panel surfaces are wipeable, with seamless silicone rubber on the dash-mounted hero switches, while rubber touchpoints protect against dirt and water.

Attachment points are built into the instrument panel to mount a device rack, with 12V power connections to easily mount cameras, navigation units, phones or other devices that today’s adventurers will carry.

For navigation, especially off-road, Bronco drivers can plan, navigate and share their adventures on the SYNC 4 infotainment system with a 12-inch display. The system has advanced topographic trail maps and more than 1,000 curated trail maps of the USA. The SYNC system also displays images from the 360-degree camera system to provide additional visibility in tricky exercises such as rock crawling.

A modern high-strength steel roll cage with integrated side curtain airbags in the upper structure and seats helps protect passengers from side impacts and complements driver and front passenger airbags. Needless to say, there’s a full range of active and passive safety systems around the vehicle.

Click here for more news and articles about Ford and Sime Darby Auto ConneXion.

Visit www.sdacford.com.my to find out about Ford 4×4 models in Malaysia.

Geely Auto enters D-segment SUV market with the Haoyue

In the 22 years that Geely Auto has been making cars, it has steadily established a presence in many segments of the automobile market. And like other global players, the company has also been increasing its presence in the booming SUV market.

Now it is entering the D-segment SUV market, a highly competitive area of the market that is currently dominated by foreign joint-venture brands (in the Chinese market). Its first entrant is the Haoyue, a 7-seater model with strong design, functionality, and value.

Speaking at the online launch event, the President & CEO of Geely Auto Group, An Conghui, said: “Geely is committed to meeting the different demands of people from all corners of life. Geely was founded on the premise of making good cars that are affordable for all, which today has transformed into ‘Making refined cars for everyone’. The Hao Yue’s unique offering in its segment will go on to lead the market and become another excellent product representative of the Geely Auto brand.”

Maximum space with ‘Expansive Aesthetic’
Geely’s ‘Expansive Aesthetic’ concept guided the design of the Haoyue’s broad muscular body. Its form integrates with technology to create a modern, refined design that strikes unique a balance of space and functionality. Sizewise, the Haoyue has an overall length of 4835, a width of 1900 mm and its roof line is 1780 mm from the road.

With a 2815 mm wheelbase, the Haoyue is available in both 5-seat and 7-seat configurations with rear seats capable of folding completely flat to maximise space utilization. Fully folded, the rear interior space can reach 2.2 square metres – equivalent to a king-sized bed – whilst the cargo space can be expanded to 2,360 litres, capable of accommodating all kinds of medium to large objects.

Both seating configurations offer extensive legroom, allowing users as tall as 1.9 metres to sit comfortably without any adjustments. Seats in all rows are adjustable including those in the third row which are even equipped with 8-way adjustable backrests. Customers can also opt for a 7 ‘VIP’ seat configuration that has 7 independently-adjustable seats.

The ‘Healthiest’ SUV
The Haoyue was developed following Geely’s ‘healthy car’ concept, with all materials undergoing stringent environmental testing. The company’s in-house requirements are over 20 times higher than Chinese national standards.

There is said to be no ‘harmful new car smell’, usually emanating from certain types of materials that are traditionally used in cars. The Haoyue also comes equipped with Geely’s officially certified CN95 grade high-efficiency air purification system capable of filtering out 99% of PM2.5 particles and 98% of droplets bigger than 0.74µm which may contain viruses and other harmful elements. In combination with a 3-zone air conditioner and AQS system, cabin air can be quickly purified and refreshed in under 3 minutes.

Powering the Haoyue is Geely’s latest 1.8TD engine paired with a dual-clutch 7-speed transmission. It is likely that this won’t be the only engine choice and a new 2-litre turbocharged petrol engine is expected to be offered in future.

Semi-autonomous motoring
L2-assisted driving technologies receive data from 24 sensors to provide 17 intelligent drive features. The various systems enable the large SUV to automatically follow, stop, as well as turn at speeds up to 150 km/h. The vehicle can also park itself automatically with 360° panoramic imaging.

Inside the Hao Yue, there’s the latest GKUI Geely Smart Ecosystem utilizing Geely’s independently developed high-performance quad-core dedicated vehicle microprocessor. GKUI allows users to interact with the vehicle through an AI-powered voice assistant. The ecosystem is also able to be integrated with a host of IoT (Internet of Things) applications such as JD.com’s Smart Home which allows for monitoring and controlling home appliances from the vehicle.

The driver can also interact and monitor information in the vehicle through the multiple high-definition displays including a 12.3-inch central infotainment panel, 12.3-inch full LCD instrument panel, and advanced WHUD heads-up navigation display.

An export model too?
In China, the Haoyue is priced from 103,600 to 139,600 yuan (about RM63,120 to RM85,000) with a choice of 3 variants. Export plans have not been announced but it is almost certain that Geely would sell it in places like Russia and Europe. ASEAN may a possibility if they can price it attractively enough as the D-segment market already has a number of models.

Geely Auto looks at ‘passenger safety’ from a different perspective, aims to make cars ‘healthier’

Audi Q4 e-tron Sportback Concept

Audi launched its electric offensive with the all-electric Q4 e-tron SUV in September 2018 and by 2025, the carmaker aims to offer more than 20 vehicles with electric drive and achieve roughly 40% of its sales with electrified models.

To date, Audi has grown its electrified range to six models and the seventh will be the Q4 Sportback e-tron SUV coupe will be launched next year. Previewing the second e-tron SUV model as a concept study for now, Audi’s aim is to give potential Q4 customers the opportunity to start thinking about which version they prefer roughly a year before the first vehicles will be delivered.

MEB and its importance
The technology of the Q4 e-tron concept is provided by the modular electrification platform (MEB), which will be used for numerous electric vehicles produced by the Volkswagen Group in the future. This platform serves as the basis primarily for electric cars in the high-volume A segment. It allows the best technology available to be developed jointly across brands and used in many different electric cars. The MEB thus also helps electric mobility to break through even in the particularly price-sensitive compact segment.

The dimensions of the two Q4 models are almost identical. With an exterior length of 4.6 metres and a height of 1.6 metres, the Sportback is just 1 cm longer and flatter. They are identical in terms of their width and wheelbase.

They will also have the same drive technology using two electric motors with 225 kW of system output. Claimed acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is 6.3 seconds, with the top speed restricted to 180 km/h.

Audi Q4 e-tron — *The Q4 e-tron which was launched in 2018 (left) and the Q4 e-tron Sportback concept which previews the next electric SUV model to go on sale in 2021.*

Electric quattro
The quattro all-wheel drive system sends the power to the road but there is no mechanical connection between the axles. Instead, an electronic control ensures that the torque distribution is coordinated optimally, and it does so in fractions of a second.

In most cases, the Q4 Sportback e-tron concept mainly uses its rear electric motor in order to achieve the highest efficiency. For reasons of efficiency, the drive torque is generally distributed with a rear-axle bias. If the driver requires more power than the rear electric motor can supply, the electric all-wheel drive uses the front asynchronous motor to redistribute the torque as required to the front axle. This also happens predictively even before slip occurs in icy conditions or when cornering fast, or if the car understeers or oversteers.

A large battery pack with a capacity of 82 kWh takes up almost the entire space in the underbody area between the axles. The range claimed from a fully charged pack is over 450 kms. Versions with rear-wheel drive can go further, with a range of over 500 kms. The battery is charged with a maximum of 125 kW, requiring little more than 30 minutes to reach 80% of the total capacity.

Sense of spaciousness
With its dimensions, the Q4 Sportback e-tron concept takes its position in the upper third of the compact class. By contrast, its wheelbase of 2.77 metres puts it at least one class higher. As there is no transmission tunnel restricting the space, there is generous legroom at the front and even more in the rear.

The colour scheme in the cabin emphasizes the sense of spaciousness. Sustainability is the top priority not only in terms of the electric drive but also materials used. The floor covering, for example, is made of recycled materials.

The Audi virtual cockpit displays the main elements for speed, charge level, and navigation, while a large-format head-up display with an augmented reality function is a new feature. It can display important graphical information, such as directional arrows for turning, directly on the course of the road.

As the centre console does not need to hold functional elements such as a gearlever or handbrake lever, the area is used for a more spacious stowage compartment that includes a cell phone charging cradle. In addition to the conventional lower storage compartment, the doors now provide the possibility to store bottles in the specially molded upper section, where they are easy to reach.

Audi electrification strategy — *By 2025, Audi aims to offer more than 20 vehicles with electric drive and achieve roughly 40% of its sales with electrified models.*

The gripping story of Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system

Toyota RAV4 becomes Suzuki ACROSS PHEV for European market

Two years ago, Suzuki and Toyota agreed to work together on joint projects for technological development, vehicle Production, and market development. Apart from the mutual supply of vehicles for the Indian market, where Suzuki has a strong presence, the two companies have also worked on sharing models.

For Toyota, it would mean a higher volume for a model and help push production costs down while for Suzuki, it would mean having a new model without the high cost of developing it. A win-win situation.

The first model to be shared is Toyota’s latest RAV4 which has been supplied to Suzuki and sold as the ACROSS. While the ‘double octagonal’ RAV4 design is evident, Suzuki’s stylists have given their SUV a different frontal look from Toyota’s model. Under the front bumper is silver garnish that underlines the off-road image of the vehicle.

2020 Suzuki ACROSS — *The front end of the Suzuki has a different look from the Toyota RAV4 (below).*

For European market
Intended for sale in the European market from the third quarter of 2020, the ACROSS has also uses the same Plug-in Hybrid system as that for the RAV4. The powertrain consists of a front electric motor producing 134 kW/270 Nm and a 2.5-litre Dynamic Force petrol engine, both of which are Toyota items.

Electricity storage is in an 18.1 kWh (50.9 Ah) high-capacity lithium-ion battery pack mounted beneath the floor. The engine functions as a charger for the battery pack and provides power assistance to the electric motor during high-speed driving if required.

The hybrid powertrain helps Suzuki to meet the tougher carbon dioxide emission regulations as well as offer high fuel efficiency.

Electronic 4×4 system
The Across also has Toyota’s E-Four electronic 4×4 system for additional capability in off-road or slippery conditions. The system uses an independent 40 kW rear motor that works in conjunction with the front motor to provide front:rear torque variation ranging from 100:00 to 20:80.

Beneﬁts of this system include enhanced stability during take-off on slippery surfaces such as snow-covered roads, and more stable handling when cornering on varying road surfaces. A ‘Trail Mode’ uses an automatic limited-slip diﬀerential control to ensure the best possible grip and control on slippery surfaces.

Central to the E-Four system is the highly sophisticated AWD Integrated Management (AIM), which controls not only drive force distribution, but also engine throttle control, transmission shift scheduling, Electric Power Steering assistance and braking, according to the driving conditions.

Same interior as RAV4
The interior environment is pretty much similar to the RAV4’s and not surprisingly shares the same high-quality materials with soft padding on the dashboard and door trims.

While cabin space is designed for the comfort of occupants in both the first and second rows, cargo space has been maximised in the spacious rear compartment. It has a 490-litre volume with the rear backrests up and up to 1,604 litres with both backrests folded down.

Advanced safety/technology features
To meet the demanding safety expectation of consumers in Europe, the ACROSS comes with a package of safety systems to help the driver. These include a Pre-Collision System (PCS), Lane Tracing Assist and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitor, and Rear Crossing Traffic Alert.

If the systems sound familiar, they are the same as what it found on the RAV4, which again saves Suzuki money as they do not have to incur development costs to make their own safety systems.

In Europe, new vehicles are also required to have eCall, a feature which automatically alerts emergency services with a phone message when the vehicle is involved in a traﬃc accident. The message includes the precise location of the vehicle, helping the emergency services to reach it faster.

The practice of one manufacturer making and supplying models to another is not new and has been going on for quite some time. In fact, it is quite common in Japan. With the market becoming more and more challenging and competitive, it only makes sense to share models and reduce cost. Each brand will have its own loyal base of customers who will be happy to have an extra choice, even if it is not made by the company.

Toyota and Suzuki Strengthen Ties with Capital Alliance Agreement

Updated Volkswagen Tiguan range includes Tiguan R variant!

Launched in 2016, Volkswagen’s most popular model – the Tiguan SUV – has been updated and refreshed for 2020. The new model, launched today, is electrifed, digitalised and networked. It gets a new plug-in hybrid drive but the big news is that the SUV line will now also include a Tiguan R variant for the very first time.

At this time, full technical data on the Tiguan R is limited. But it is known that under the bonnet will be a turbocharged 2-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine tuned to deliver about 318 ps/420Nm. The power will flow through a 7-speed DSG and a new all-wheel drive with selective wheel torque control for this new high-performance variant.

It also has R-Performance Torque Vectoring which is said to enable totally new SUV driving dynamics by distributing the drive power variably between the front and rear axles as well as the left and right rear wheels.

New face with visual links
Design-wise, the Tiguan gets a new ‘face’, with the radiator grille having visual links to the larger Touareg and US-market Atlas Cross Sport. The bonnet is more concise in its appearance and the new radiator grille with LED headlights is wider, with the new Volkswagen badge positioned centrally at the front.

The bumpers have also undergone a makeover. At the rear, the Tiguan lettering is now in a prominent central position below the VW badge. As would be expected, the Tiguan R is 10 mm lower than other Tiguans, with 21-inch Estoril wheels at each corner.

Inside the new Tiguan
The new steering wheel generation features touch controls and the interior designers have also digitalised the climate control functions by means of touch sliders and touch buttons. Also coming in the new Tiguan is a third-generation modular infotainment matrix (MIB3) that extends the online connectivity for the SUV. The optional 480W sound system comes from Harman Kardon.

Assisted Driving up to 210 km/h
Volkswagen is steadily moving towards autonomous motoring and those who use the Tiguan will be able to experience it with the new Travel Assist system. It is capable of providing assisted driving at speed up to 210 km/h. The system relies on systems including Adaptive Cruise Control (longitudinal guidance) and Lane Assist/lane keeping (latitudinal guidance).

For legal and safety-relevant reasons, drivers must permanently monitor the system – for this purpose, they must have at least one hand on the steering wheel. Thanks to new capacitive sensor technology in the steering wheel, it is sufficient if drivers merely touch it. However, if they let go of the steering wheel for more than 15 seconds, visual and audible warning signals and a braking jolt are issued and implemented. The driver must react by this point at the latest and touch the steering wheel, otherwise Emergency Assist is activated and the vehicle is brought to a stop.

2020 Volkswagen Tiguan eHybrid — *The new Tiguan will be available with a plug-in hybrid powertrain as part of Volkswagen’s electrification strategy.*

As the Tiguan is assembled in Malaysia, it can be expected that this updated one will eventually be in local showrooms – although the R variant is unlikely to be a regular offering.

Visit www.volkswagen.com.my to know more about models available in Malaysia and the latest promotions.

Volkswagen Tiguan has crossed 6-million mark and remains VW’s bestseller

The Rolls-Royce Black Badge Cullinan has arrived in Malaysia

‘Black’ is mentioned a lot in the news these days and it’s become controversial in the social and political context. But not all black subjects are controversial and the Black Badge family of cars from Rolls-Royce are desirable products for those an emerging generation of super-luxury consumer.

Launched in 2016, the Black Badge cars for a permanent Bespoke range that, in the words of Torsten Muller-Otvos, CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, ‘reflects the desires of a distinct group of Rolls-Royce clients: men and women who take risks, break rules and build success on their own terms’.

Appealing to new, younger generation of customers
Since being launched, demand for the Black Badge offering has been growing as the bold theme attracts new – and younger – customers to the marque. It appeals to the new generation of customers – or ‘clients’ as Rolls-Royce refers to them – who would consider the ‘silver badge’ Rolls-Royce too conventional and traditional. The approach is not new to Rolls-Royce as there have been offerings in the past which inverted the ‘silver badge’ to black as a means of creating uniqueness (apparently there was even a ‘red badge’ tried out at one time).

This ‘alter ego’ is codified by the mathematical symbol that represents a potential infinity, placed discreetly within the motor car’s interior. This marking, known also as the lemniscate, was applied to Sir Malcolm Campbell’s record-breaking Rolls-Royce-powered Blue Bird K3 hydroplane, denoting that it belonged to an insurance class reserved for boats with unlimited and therefore infinite engine power. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars selected this hallmark for its Black Badge cars to reflect its own unrelenting pursuit of power.

Full Black Badge range
Rolls-Royce debuted the Black Badge range with the Wraith and Ghost in 2016, followed by the Dawn in 2017. Today, the family is completed for the first time in Malaysia with the introduction of the Black Badge Cullinan by Rolls-Royce Kuala Lumpur (RRKL). It is rare for a distributor to have the full range but RRKL does, perhaps a reflection of its notable presence in the Rolls-Royce global network.

Introducing the Black Badge Cullinan SUV this afternoon, Anas Zawawi Khalid, Executive Director for Quill Motorcars Sdn Bhd, which operates RRKL, said: “We are seeing a distinct change in the Super-luxury arena within Malaysia. Increasingly, we are welcoming younger, adventurous Rolls-Royce customers alongside our more established clientele. We have refreshed our Black Badge range for 2020 and have already seen strong interest from customers who are looking for something very contemporary and bold.”

The Cullinan, which is the first SUV from Rolls-Royce, has been in the market for two years now. It may have been late into the luxury SUV market but then again, a SUV bearing the Spirit of Ecstasy on the bonnet has to be the best in every aspect – including off-road capability – so that would have taken the engineers a while to achieve. The end result is a vehicle that is ‘Effortless, Everywhere’ as the company describes the true ‘Rolls-Royce of SUVs’.

It doesn’t have to be black…
Black is, of course, the dominant theme of the Black Badge Cullinan and while most customers will choose this colour, Rolls-Royce also offers no less than other 44,000 colours to choose from. And if the colour cannot be found, the customer can provide a sample of a colour desired and it will be developed for his or her car.

Rolls-Royce Cullinan — *If you prefer, you can also have your Black Badge Cullinan in white – or any of the 44,000 colour choices available.*

Multiple layers of paint and lacquer are meticulously applied and hand-polished 10 times, the most comprehensive surface finish process ever applied to a solid paint colour. The depth and intensity of Black Badge Cullinan’s coachwork serves as the perfect canvas upon which to throw a contrasting hand-painted Coachline into stark relief.

Exclusive core elements
Core elements are in black or black chrome, including the Spirit of Ecstasy mascot (including its mounting plate). The ‘Double R’ badge on the front, flanks and aft invert to become silver-on-black, while chrome surfaces such as the front grille surround, side frame finishers, boot handle, boot trim, lower air inlet finisher and exhaust pipes are darkened. While they appear black, the vertical grille bars remain polished, reflecting the blackened surfaces that surround them to add a frisson of movement that hints at the motor car’s dynamic intent.

The overall effect artfully simplifies and enlarges SUV’s exterior design graphics, further dramatized by all-new 22-inch forged alloy wheels, reserved exclusively for Black Badge Cullinan.

The gloss black and polished design also creates the perfect stage for the marque’s first ever coloured brake caliper finished in high gloss red paint.

Incidentally, many of the core items on a Black Badge model are exclusive. They are not offered by as Bespoke items so customers cannot personalise their car to be like a Black Badge. If they want a Black Badge model, they have to buy the whole car but they can personalise it as much as they want too.

‘Amplified’ V12 engine
The Black Badge Cullinan isn’t just about the dark aesthetics. The boldness of the theme is supported by ‘amplification’ of the 6.75-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine. It was deemed unnecessary to make changes to the ample internal capacity but tuning adjustments have generated an extra 29 ps for a total output of 600 ps. The sense of a single, infinite gear has also been enhanced with the addition of a further 50 Nm of torque, bringing the total to a 900 Nm.

There’s also an entirely new exhaust system, announcing the vehicle’s arrival with a deep, authoritative basso profundo. It’s not the sort of sound that will disturb the neighbour’s baby but it will signal the presence of the Black Badge Cullinan.

The drivetrain, ZF 8-speed gear box and both front and rear steered axles work collaboratively to adjust the levels of engagement depending on throttle and steering inputs. Changes to suspension components and settings add to the suite of dynamic technologies that ensure an appropriate balance between dynamism and refinement.

To bolster confidence, the braking bite point has been raised and pedal travel decreased. Redesigned brake disc ventilation also allows consistency in these changes while braking at elevated temperatures.

Whatever the customer wants…
It is unlikely that any two Black Badge Cullinans will have similarly equipped interiors. Apart from a near-infinitely configurable interior colour palette, just about anything a customer wants to install can be done provided it does not compromise safety. For those who prefer to leave it to the professionals, the Colour and Trim designers have created a bold new leather colour, Forge Yellow, to offer as part of the brand’s curated collection.

One increasingly popular feature is the Starlight Headliner and its presence in Black Badge Cullinan intensifies the cabin’s ambience by casting a low light over the whole cabin. Presented in fine Black leather, handwoven with 1,344 fibre-optic lights in the ceiling, it can show the sky at night with 8 brilliant white shooting stars that dart at random around the ceiling. Or the customer can specify a personal design and the tiny lights can be arranged to show it.

A person who is ready to buy a Rolls-Royce is unlikely to be overly concerned about its price but for those who are interested to know, the price of a Cullinan in Malaysia at the time of its launch in January 2019 started at RM1.8 million (without tax). A Black Badge version would be considerably more although the present exemption of 5% of Sales Tax has also brought it down. According to Encik Anas, the Sales Tax exemption – which has obviously meant significant savings for a buyer – has encouraged more people to ‘come through the door’ and discuss a purchase.

The customers, he revealed, are as young as in the early 30s, while the global average is in the 40s. In any case, Rolls-Royce is seeing its clientele becoming younger and has therefore responded with offerings like the Black Badge range.

2020 Rolls-Royce Black Badge Family — *The full Black Badge family, available in Malaysia.*

“This remarkable motor car is creating tremendous amounts of interest amongst younger, affluent customers who are new to Rolls-Royce but who value adventure and freedom of travel without compromise,” he said, adding that RRKL is seeing an increasing number of customers from East Malaysia. As for aftersales support, RRKL has been progressively enhancing its service centre and its practices and services are optimised.

The Starlight Headliner – Bringing the starry sky inside a Rolls-Royce

Pearl Capsule gives Lamborghini Urus buyers additional colour choices

110 years ago, if you wanted to buy the popular Ford Model T, you had a choice of just one colour – black. Henry Ford decided to offer only one colour, largely because he wanted to maximize economies of scale by buying the biggest volume of paint so costs would be lower. Black was also quick-drying which appealed to him because he wanted to accelerate production.

Today, however, apart from limited edition models, a single colour would not go down well with customers who like freedom to choose. Still, there is a limit to colour choices for mass-produced models because the paint shop can only cater to a certain number of colours at one time. And of course, volume is again a consideration but definitely, there’s more than one colour to choose from!

More exclusive colour choices
Because Lamborghini sells cars which are expensive and exclusive, it is willing to meet almost any demand by customers when it comes to colours. Its dedicated paint shop which opened in 2019 incorporates benchmarking Artificial Intelligence applications alongside combined craftsmanship and technologies, extending the potential and volume for exclusive color choices.

As well as the new pearl colours in yellow, orange and green, reflecting the customer demand for sporty and vibrant exteriors, it has now come out with a new design edition, Pearl Capsule, for ‘new adventures in colour’ for the Urus Super SUV.

First exclusive customization option
This first exclusive customization option for the Urus is created by Lamborghini’s Centro Stile design department. The assertive two-tone exterior finish embraces Lamborghini’s traditional high-gloss 4-layer pearl colours of Giallo Inti, Arancio Borealis and Verde Mantis in combination with high-gloss black roof, rear diffuser, spoiler lip and other details. The sporty matt grey tailpipes are complemented by 23-inch high-gloss black rims with body colour accent.

The interior trim is based on a unique 2-tone color combination, featuring the hexagon-shaped upholstery stitching Q-Citura with logo embroidery on the seat, plus carbonfibre and black anodized aluminium details. Available exclusively on the Pearl Capsule, the optional fully-electric seat features airy perforated Alcantara for exceptional comfort.

The Urus Pearl Capsule for the Urus offers an extended range of colors and features following the first full year of Urus production in 2019. With more than 8,300 SUVs delivered worldwide since its launch, the most popular colour options have been elegant hues of greys, closely followed by Lamborghini’s trademark yellow.

Enhancements for coming model year
Alongside enhanced standard and optional equipment, including the most comprehensive ADAS equipment in its segment, Urus owners will now be able to match their personality even more. They can choose from an updated standard colour palette and a continuously-expanding range of special colours, as well as further interior customization offered by Lamborghini Ad Personam.

“The Lamborghini Urus has attracted an extremely diverse clientele since its launch, with exceptionally varied lifestyles,” said Automobili Lamborghini Chairman & CEO, Stefano Domenicali. “Nearly 80% of those customers – of whom around 10% are women – are new to the Lamborghini brand, enjoying the versatility of their Urus whether for business, family outings or of course, leisure time. The colours preferred by owners has varied enormously, with a strong mix of more understated choices as well as traditional sporty Lamborghini colors.

“The next step for the Urus, appealing to a broad client base looking to continue their adventures everywhere from the city to the sand dunes, from the countryside to ski resorts, is to extend our Super SUV’s features and customizability. Lamborghini’s Ad Personam program and Lamborghini colors are an integral aspect of our brand. The new options allow Urus owners to choose exteriors and interiors reflecting their personality, lifestyle, and their chosen adventures in the Urus,” he explained.

Besides more colours choices, the coming model year of the Urus will offer the richest level of standard equipment in terms of technology, safety and ADAS. Notable product improvements include an exclusive new key design and updated optional Parking Assistance Package, including state-of-the-art Intelligent Park Assist. This system allows the car to park itself by managing steering, throttle and brake for automatic parallel and perpendicular parking, at just the push of a button. Optional equipment includes a new premium Sensonum sound system, featuring a 730W amplifier and 17 speakers.

Lamborghini Huracan EVO Rear-Wheel Drive – for the purists

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

2020 Range Rover Evoque launched with two variants, priced from RM426,828

Ever since businesses resumed their operations, they seem to be catching up with lost time and new models are being quickly launched. Now they can do it faster since there is no need to find a venue and organise all the ‘song and dance’ routine because they can do it online.

The latest to use the online channel for launching a new model is Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia (JLRM) which today officially launched the new 2020 Range Rover Evoque. Two variants of the luxury compact SUV are available – Evoque and Evoque R-Dynamic – with prices from RM426,828 and RM475,398, respectively (inclusive of 5% sales tax exemption but excluding registration fees, insurance premium and roadtax).

In conjunction with the Malaysian launch, JLRM is also offering RM3,000 worth of accessory vouchers (for a limited time only) that can be used to purchase original Evoque accessories. The accessories come with a 5-year warranty.

The Evoque is in its second generation which was launched in 2018 and the latest one has received cosmetic and functional updates. The design remains instantly recognisable, a sophisticated evolution of the original’s distinctive coupe-like silhouette.

The R-Dynamic variant features more exterior enhancements such as burnished copper accents on the front and rear bumpers, as well as front fender inserts.

Both variants come with a new 2- litre Ingenium turbocharged petrol engine and a 9-speed automatic transmission. The twin scroll turbocharged engine comes in two states of tune: for the Evoque, the output is 200 ps/320 Nm while for the R-Dynamic variant, it’s 249 ps/365 Nm.

The technical updates
Most of the updates are on the technical aspects, starting with the All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system having Driveline Disconnect technology. Standard for both variants, the system allows the driver to fully disengage drive to the rear wheels when cruising to reduce frictional losses. When conditions require additional traction or stability, the system will seamlessly re-engage in a fraction of a second.

For more challenging conditions, the Terrain Response 2 system (standard as well) is engaged to automatically adjust the vehicle’s driving characteristics to match surface conditions. Flooded roads won’t stop the Evoque either as it is claimed to have the best-in-class wading depth of 600 mm.

Advanced visibility technologies
With the R-Dynamic variant, there is the segment’s first ‘ClearSight Rear View Mirror’ that transforms into a high-definition (HD) video screen when activated. If rear visibility is compromised by passengers or bulky items, the driver can flip a switch located on the underside of the mirror to activate a camera feed from the top of the car to display the back end of the vehicle in crisp high definition. The camera has a 50-degree field of vision and superior visibility in low light.

Also exclusive for the R-Dynamic variant is the world’s first ‘ClearSight Ground View’ technology allows the driver to virtually see through the bonnet and under the front end of the vehicle. The driver can see, on the dashboard display, a 180-degree view of the ground ahead, which should be very useful on rough ground.

The new Evoque is also the first Land Rover model to feature Smart Settings, a system which uses artificial intelligence algorithms to learn the driver’s preference. The system applies the driver’s preference to automate comfort and driver-specific media settings throughout the drive.

The vehicle ‘recognises’ the driver from their key fob and smartphone with the use of ‘self-learning’ technology, enabling specific seat and steering column position set up upon approach. Up to 8 driver profiles can be registered. After a few journeys, the Evoque remembers the driver’s preferred temperature settings, media preference and commonly dialled numbers, depending on the time or day of the week.

Intelligent infotainment system
Land Rover’s InControl Touch Pro Duo infotainment system is central to the vehicle’s digital interior experience. This combines two sleek 10-inch high-definition glass touchscreens and a 12.3-inch driver display panel on the instrument panel. To minimise distractions, the ‘hidden until lit’ interior is used for the state-of-the-art digital interface. A Meridian Sound System is installed in the new Evoque and this has no less than 11 speakers including a subwoofer.

According to Nick Rogers, Executive Director, Product Engineering of Jaguar Land Rover, the Evoque is now smarter than ever. The software that sits behind the infotainment system has been refined to provide a more intuitive customer experience. “On top of that, we’ve added Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration. Apple CarPlay connects you to your smartphone while the 4G wifi hotspot connects you to the internet,” he explained.

Additional safety systems
Lane Keep Assist is a new safety feature which helps the driver to stay in their lane by adding a necessary steering correction feature. It initiates a gentle steering input to return the vehicle to its intended position

Also added is Driver Condition Monitor technology, a safety feature that is based on the driver’s steering inputs. Jerky, non-linear movements that are typical symptoms of a fatigued (or drunk) driver will automatically trigger an audible and visual warning from the instrument cluster.

All Land Rover vehicles distributed by JLRM come with Land Rover Care, which entitles owners to 5 years (or maximum of 65,000 kms) of free scheduled servicing, 5 years (or maximum of 150,000 kms) warranty coverage and 3 years of roadside assistance.