INFO NEW CARS IN MARKET

The Land Rover LR4

noreply@blogger.com (Fauzi) — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 15:06:00 +0000

One thing that I have noticed about 2010 is that there is a new Land Rover that is in play and it is the Land Rover LR4. This car is absolutely incredible and it is the fourth generation of the Discovery. The Land Rover LR4, is all new and while there might just seem like some minor tweaks, there are some large tweaks that have been made as well. For example, the outside is still a little bulky but it has been trimmed down a little bit and the brand new interior is very soft to the touch. There is also a group of more functions that are all in the central touch screen.

Under the hood, this car features the old 4.4 liter V-8 engine, but it also features a new and direct-injected 5.0 liter unit that jumps this car to 375 HP and 375 lb-ft of torque. That is incredible for a car like this huh?
Personally, I have never driven a Range Rover, but I have heard that they look absolutely incredible and to be honest, they are the height of luxury – so really, check them out and see what you think, after all, it’s brand new!

The Tesla Roadster

noreply@blogger.com (Fauzi) — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 12:19:00 +0000

It’s Coming In ‘10!

There are some cars that I simply can not wait for them to come out … the Tesla Roadster is one of them. This car is going to be one of the best cars as soon as it comes out in the first quarter of 2010 and it will be available in either standard or Sport.

While right now, there is one Tesla Roadster available, it is in Australia and to be honest, it is for the left-handed drivers … wrong side of the road drivers I call ‘em (just kidding!) and it costs upwards of $200,000 Australian dollars and to me … that is a little more than I wanted to spend on this car.

I’ll just wait for it to come out and be released next year … hopefully the cost is going to go down, however I do now see that happening, as the Tesla Roadster is one of the most anticipated cars in the world. The sport feel of it and overall look is something that everyone is expecting and waiting for.

2010 Fesler-Moss Camaro

noreply@blogger.com (Fauzi) — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 03:58:00 +0000

Finally Seen!

If you have been following along with the General Motors news, you would have read that GM actually partnered with Chris Fesler’s custom car shop. Now though, we are finally able to reveal some of the pictures that have come out as a result of that partnership and I am proud to say that the 2010 Fesler-Moss Camaro is absolutely beautiful.
Not only is the 2010 Fesler-Moss Camaro available in two different flavors, but the overall appeal of this particular Camaro is incredible! Now – the first package is the Competition package and this has a $50,000 price tag but the upgrades like a supercharger and a six-piston brake system make it all the better!
If you are looking for another flavor of the 2010 Fesler-Moss Camaro, well, the Limited Edition package is just $150,000 and has everything!

2010 Jaguar XKR

noreply@blogger.com (Fauzi) — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 13:10:00 +0000

2010 Jaguar XKR Goodwood Special: It’s Unveiled!

I never thought that I would actually like a Jaguar car. My girlfriend, she is nuts for them but me? Well, I never thought that I would find one that I actually loved … until I laid eyes on the 2010 Jaguar XKR Goodwood Special. This beautiful car is not only one of those cars that is breathtaking to look at, but under the hood, it is completely exotic and all around beautiful! This incredible car is actually a need-for-speed car … no the video game exactly, but it is a car that needs to be going fast most of the time because honestly … it goes up to about 225 miles per hour and that is … crazy!

Under the hood: 5.0-liter V8 for a total of 530 horsepower and 515 lb-ft of torque. Considering that the (anything but) ordinary 510 hp version rockets to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds. All of that and the car actually looks cool too? That is mind blowing to me and I have to say that you really need to take a closer look at this particular car … it truly is one of those cars that look beautiful and live up to the Jaguar name!
Just remember the 2010 Jaguar XKR Goodwood Special name and just wait for it to come out … it is going to be hot and selling out so fast!

2010 BMW ActiveHybrid X6

noreply@blogger.com (Fauzi) — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 11:36:00 +0000

It’s Coming Soon!

When you think about BMW – what is usually the first thing that comes to your mind? Well, the first thing that comes to my mind is never hybrid and never ever fuel efficient, however – BMW has switched their name around a bit and they are not becoming one of the premium hybrid car makers, starting with the all new 2010 BMW ActiveHybrid X6. This beautiful, wonderful and powerful BMW lives right up to the name and is certainly one of the hybrids that is not only pretty to look at … but absolutely powerful in every way possible.
The great thing about the 2010 BMW ActiveHybrid X6 is that there is a ton of horsepower behind that engine – 480 HP actually and it has very impressive powertain that consists of twin electric motors and twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 engine. This car can run to sixty and will take just about 5 seconds to get to the top speed of 130 miles per hour.
2010 BMW ActiveHybrid X6 is the car to get – it is a hybrid, it is fast and it is by far one of the coolest looking cars.

The All-New 2010 Ford Grand C-Max!

noreply@blogger.com (Fauzi) — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 03:28:00 +0000

For me not being a Ford lover and for me to be writing a blog like this – I have to say, it is pretty rare. Ford is actually coming out with some of the best cars in the world and I have to say that their 2010 lineup is something that I am actually looking forward to. For example, the 2010 Ford Grand C-Max is actually one SUV that I am looking forward to … which is weird!

Personally, I think that the ‘soccer-mom’ mini-van days are a thing of the past because of things like the 2010 Ford Grand C-Max. While this SUV seems to be based off of the Pontiac Vibe, which I personally own, I think that the Grand C-Max is actually a fantastic comparison … and it looks chic!

Chic, stylish and fashionable – those are the three words that I would use to describe the all new 2010 Ford Grand C-Max!

Volvo S80 Saloon

noreply@blogger.com (Fauzi) — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 04:16:00 +0000

2010 Model Year

The second-generation Volvo S80 saloon was first introduced for sale back in 2006 and hasn’t seen many major alterations since then except for the introduction of a long-wheelbase version for the Chinese market late last year. That’s all set to change as Volvo has announced plans for a slightly refreshed version due to go on sale in the coming months.

Updates to the car, which arrives in time for the 2010 model year, include distinctive changes to the body, a more exclusive interior and a sharper chassis and upgraded engine range. The new model looks lower, longer and wider. This is thanks in part to a new grille and rocker panels.

Inside, designers have focused on improving the premium feel of the car. New leather seats are featured, and are accompanied by door panels echoing the same trim. The car’s floating center stack has also been upgraded with a silk metal frame that matches the more modern units found in newer models like the XC60.

New to the engine range is the introduction of a brand new five-cylinder diesel unit. The new engine is Euro 5 compliant and delivers up to 205hp (152kW) and 310lb-ft (420Nm) of torque - all while returning fuel economy of 38mpg (6.2L/100km) and C02 emissions of roughly 164g/km. The 2010 S80 is also available with a second diesel, rated at 175hp (130kW) and 310lb-ft (420Nm) of torque.

Finally, Volvo has also added a new chassis management system with two different settings. A “comfort” chassis will be offered as standard and a lowered “sport” chassis will be offered as an option. This sport version features a 20mm lower ride height up front and a 15mm lower height at the rear, stiffer springs, improved shock absorbers, and firmer anti-roll bars.

The refreshed Volvo S80 will be unveiled for the very first time at the Geneva Motor Show next week and will go on sale in most markets by the middle of the year.

Audi A6 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Fauzi) — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 03:09:00 +0000

Audi's new A6, an engineering mule of which is revealed in our new spy photos, will sport a new multi-material spaceframe to narrow the gap with its arch rivals, the BMW 5-series and Mercedes E-class – both of which are being imminently renewed. The new Audi A6 arrives in 2010.

According to a chief strategist, the current TT is the role model for the advanced body architecture of all future Audis. Dubbed ASF II – shorthand for aluminium and steel spaceframe – the innovative material mix weighs about half what an all-steel constructed chassis would. It's the Weight Watchers solution of the automotive world.

So how does the new aluminium Audi A6 shape up?

It doesn't take Colin Chapman to work out that lightweight execs are A Good Thing. Our engineering moles point out that an alloy A6 will achieve all the usual lightweight gains – performance, emissions, economy – but will also throw up a few surprise wins. It's 50 percent more rigid than before.

The new passenger cell is made of aluminium, but there are steel and foam reinforcements where necessary. In addition, Audi is developing lightweight front and rear subframes which are integral parts of the compact but strong modular nose and tail structures.

And I guess the A6's construction will trickle down Audi's (rapidly expanding) range?

Innovative bonding techniques and more efficient production methods will be applied to ensure top quality and competitive cost patterns. The second-generation ASF system will be introduced top-down, starting with the next Audi A6 and A8 along with the new A7.

To implement the ASF system on the next-gen A3 will be a financial challenge, but Audi is reportedly willing to accept it, and this should also apply to the A1 and the follow-up to the A4/A5. A special ASF version is being prepared for SUVs and crossovers, too, which must shed weight even more urgently.

The next Q7 will for instance be 300 kilos/660lb lighter than the model it replaces.

2010 BMW 5-series

noreply@blogger.com (Fauzi) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 14:59:00 +0000

Could this really be the new 5-series? According to the article below, this model will be available in 2010.

When you think of luxury executive saloons, one car always comes to mind, the BMW 5-series. A class leader since its inception, the 5-series remains a crucial car to BMW. With the current E60 5-series introduced back in 2004, BMW is preparing the sixth-generation model to be revealed in 2010. It will be a tough job for the designers as well as the thousands of engineers working across BMW’s development centers to renew the current model, a car that already resides at the edge of the technical front line.
The new design is critical for BMW’s design manager Adrian van Hooydonk and his team, who have to create an exterior that radiates the brand’s distinctive design values and at the same time feels new and fresh. Using information from various sources, these renderings were compiled by our partners over at Sweden’s Auto Motor and Sport and their illustrator Radovan Varicak, giving us a preview of what the final version will look like.The front-end will likely feature a more upright kidney grille in order to comply with stronger pedestrian protection laws, while the headlights won’t be stretched out like on the current model. BMW’s characteristic interaction between convex and concave shapes will still be emphasized, and will be clearly indicated in the engine hood’s lines.
The rear roofline and C-pillar connects more fluidly to the trunk lid, which is now devoid of the Bangle-butt that was so universally derided with the E60 model. Parts of the tail-lights continue onto the trunk lid in order to strengthen the impression of width. We must say, this design is very pleasing and if BMW’s car looks anything like this, we sure it’ll lure back any customers loss to its rivals because of the controversial styling of the former E60.

The new 5-series is being built off an entirely new chassis, with double wishbones in the front, like on the new X5. The move is designed to give better control and road grip around corners, according to the chassis engineers. With the aid of the extremely fast Flex-Ray automotive network communications protocol, the adaptive shock absorbers is set to become more effective, as will active steering.
BMW will also be updating its iDrive system for the new 5-series, making life a little easier with the addition of yet another pair of programmable buttons. Those that think the standard 5-series isn’t sporty enough will have to wait for a few more years until the new M5 turns up with its V10 motor and more power than the 507hp offered in today’s edition. The M version will be the only 5-series model offered with a new dual clutch gearbox (similar to VW’s DSG technology).
The standard version will instead be fitted with an 8-speed automatic transmission that will take the fight to Lexus. This gearbox is being developed by ZF, which will also manufacture a new four wheel drive system that will feature in the new Five. A new 5-series wouldn’t be complete without the introduction of more electronic driver’s aids, and this time BMW is bringing Dynamic Performance Control to the table. The system actively distributes torque between the wheels, depending on how the car acts during a turn. The result is increased security and the ability to handle larger side forces. The new differential will also come in the new 3-series and potentially even the 1-series as an option.
A full-hybrid system, featuring an electric motor in parallel with an engine, is not currently planned for the new 5-series, which instead is likely to feature the same system already used in the 1-series. This light-hybrid system consists of an electric starter motor that’s connected to the crankshaft and can function as both a generator and a propulsion system, spinning the engine during initial off the line acceleration. The light-hybrid will be available in both diesel and petrol versions and expect a new V8 diesel engine to make its debut in the next-gen model.
The two-mode hybrid transmission that was developed by BMW together with General Motors and DaimlerChrysler is mostly aimed at bigger vehicles such as trucks and SUVs. The design features dual motors, and an advanced control system that can allow both engines can be turned on simultaneously, and to regenerate electric power during braking.
This two-mode system, however, is not currently planned for the next generation 5-series, although BMW has not eliminated the possibility that a similar technology can be added towards the end of the model’s life cycle. We’ll have to make do with the light hybrid at the moment since BMW feels it has already succeeded in heavily reducing the fuel consumption of their engines. However, it remains to be seen whether or not BMW will be able to reach the EU’s new requirements for average CO2 emissions of 130g/km by 2012.
That’s it for now, we’ll be back soon with more exclusive news. But in the mean time, if you would like us to keep you updated on all the BMW news, please take a moment and sign up for our email feed.

Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupe

noreply@blogger.com (Fauzi) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 11:15:00 +0000

The Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupe is the latest addition to the automaker's growing line of vehicles. The new car follows in the footsteps of the new Drophead Coupe, which is a convertible version of the Phantom. The two are closely related, with obvious clues from the 100EX concept car.

The large driver-oriented grand tourer is powered by the company's 6.75-liter V12 that produces 453 horsepower, 531 pound-feet of torque -- with nearly 400 lb-ft, or 75 percent, available at just 1,000 rpm -- and has segment-leading fuel economy thanks to modern technology such as direct injection and variable valve and camshaft control. A 25 percent increase in fuel capacity, compared to the Drophead Coupe, adds significant driving range. Electronic driving aids are integrated into the car's anti-lock braking and traction control system to ensure the behemoth is never out of shape.

At the core of the Phantom Coupe is an aluminum chassis. The lightweight unibody structure is hand made, requiring over 430 feet of welding.

The Phantom Coupe features rear-hinged coach doors which add considerably to the ease of access to the rear seats as well as to the overall aesthetics. According to the automaker, they also aid the overall stiffness of the body as the rear hinged doors allow for an uninterrupted A-pillar helping to make this the most torsionally rigid Rolls-Royce ever. A brushed steel finish of A-pillar and hood, as seen first on 100EX Concept, is also available for the Coupe.

The Drophead's Picnic Boot, a split opening tailgate trunk, is likewise retained. A choice of three 21-inch wheel styles is available at no additional cost.

"Rolls-Royce has always been about pace, performance and style," Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Chief Designer, Ian Cameron, said. "The dynamic drive of the Phantom has always come as a surprise to customers and the Coupe takes it one step further."

MECHANICAL

6.75L 48-valve V12 engine w/direct injection & variable valve timing

6-speed ZF automatic transmission

Rear wheel drive

Variable assist pwr rack & pinion steering

4-wheel vented disc brakes w/dual-piston front calipers

EXTERIOR

255/50WR21 front run-flat tires & 285/45WR21 rear run-flat tires

21" x 8" front alloy wheels & 21" x 9.5" rear alloy wheels

Stainless steel Spirit of Ecstacy hood ornament

Body color front & rear bumpers

Chrome/bright trim around side windows

Polished steel front grille

Bi-xenon projector beam headlights w/delay auto-off & dusk sensor

Headlight washers

Dual body-color heated pwr mirrors

Intermittent auto wipers w/rain sensor

INTERIOR

Leather heated 6-way pwr front bucket seat w/lumbar adjustment

Leather rear fixed bench seat

Front & rear center armrests

Front & rear floor mats

Leather-covered tilt/telescoping steering wheel w/audio controls

Instrumentation w/LED illumination, external temp, trip computer, compass, tire pressure indicator

Cruise control

Pwr trunk/hatch pull-down

Bluetooth hands-free telephone

Remote trunk/hatch release

Memory -inc: mirror, steering wheel, driver & front passenger seat position

Front & rear pwr windows w/one-touch control

Pwr door locks

Remote keyless entry

Auto door closer

Rear view camera w/parking sensors

Air conditioning w/dual zone auto climate control -inc: micro filter, active carbon filter

Rear window defogger

Front fixed & rear pop-out cup holders

Luxury wood & leather trim on doors & dashboard

Auto-dimming rearview mirror

Front & rear door pockets

Mahogany flare dash veneer

Full dashboard & floor console w/covered storage box

(4) 12V aux pwr outlets

Illuminated driver & front passenger vanity mirrors

Courtesy lights w/delayed fade

Front & rear reading lights

Front seat-back storage

Illuminated entry

Cargo area light

SAFETY

Dual front airbags w/occupant sensors

Front side airbags w/occupant sensors

Active pwr height-adjustable front head restraints

Dual height-adjustable rear head restraints

3-point seat belts for all positions

Dynamic stability control

4-wheel anti-lock vented disc brakes w/emergency brake assist

Daytime running lights

Peugeot 3008

noreply@blogger.com (Fauzi) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 17:11:00 +0000

What you get if you cross a saloon, an MPV, an SUV and a hatchback

The Peugeot 3008: With plenty of low-down torque and a top speed of 125mph, you can always pull out to overtake the odd lorry or caravan

Man flu is the worst, isn't it? I've had plenty of time to think about this, as I've been bedridden for most of the week.
The reason women think we're laying it on thick when we complain is that to them, being tucked up under a duvet with a hot drink watching rubbish telly counts as 'me time'. They look forward to it. Whereas to us, daytime telly is a hell far worse than the sore throat, shivers and shakes.

I've learnt a lot, you know, lying here watching Jeremy Kyle and Matthew Wright with my bottle of Night Nurse. I've learnt more than I'll ever need to know about car boot sales and 'what not to wear', but mostly I've learnt about Katie Price and DNA tests - it's no wonder the country is in the state it's in, if these are our priorities. eriously, watching Kyle shouting at a poor family who were about to be split up because of a live paternity test made me sicker than any virus. I had to get up and out - they should prescribe this show instead of pills. It's a much quicker medicine.

So out I went into the bone-chilling cold, to take another look at this new Peugeot 3008. It's a new fixture in the French firm's range, and is supposed to combine aspects of a saloon, an MPV, an SUV and a hatchback - an overambitious plan if you ask me.
The press release showed what looked like a sporty race car, but that wasn't the car I was looking at, even allowing for my weeping eyes. It's fair to say the 3008 isn't the prettiest car ever made. I like the roofline and rear view, but that's about it.
Then again, the people this is aimed at are much more interested in function than form. This is 100 per cent a family car, with four doors, a five-star NCAP safety rating and a hatch at the back, and British mums have been snapping those up for years. It's what's in the box, not what it looks like, that matters - and the 3008 gets a lot of things right.

The dashboard, with clear-glass head-up display and pop-up screen

Take the massive boot: more than enough to take a week's shopping and a buggy, and easily expanded by sliding the back seats forward or folding them flat.
The bottom half of the split tailgate works as a loading shelf, and you can split the boot into two levels with a full-width adjustable tray. Up front there's plenty of headroom, giving a sense of space that's increased by the panoramic windscreen - extending all the way from the bonnet to the back seats.
At the front sits a plastic wrap-around dashboard and a big drinks chiller, but not many gadgets - as you'd expect at this price (the range goes from £16,000 to £22,000; I had a good one in 'Exclusive' trim, with the same 1.6-litre petrol engine as the Mini Cooper S). I do love the clear glass head-up display that rises from the dash, like the weapons system on a helicopter gunship. But if you've got kids - and if you buy this car, you will - it's the first thing the little terrors will rip off when you're out putting money in the meter.
As for the driving, I was pleasantly surprised. With plenty of low-down torque and a top speed of 125mph, you can always pull out to overtake the odd lorry or caravan. Gear-changing is quick and easy, which makes for a smooth ride as you pull away from the lights.

The Peugeot 3008's spacious seats

t's no hot hatch - due to its height and your raised seating position, corners are taken slower than in most cars - but it feels sportier than a lot of these jack-of-all-trades crossovers. The top half of the 3008 range is fitted with Dynamic Roll Control to prevent that wallowy feeling, and mine never felt anything less than squarely planted.

Over the week-long test, the fuel economy was good, averaging 50 miles per gallon, which isn't bad as the car was full of people and heavy garden stuff. Driving at night was great, with the optional directional headlights making life a lot easier. Overall, I can see a lot of plus points. But does it really combine saloon, hatchback, MPV and SUV in one package?

The first three, yes, but to call it an SUV is pushing it. Unlike its chief competitor the Nissan Qashqai, which is a genuine 4x4, the best this can offer is an optional 'Grip Control' system, which combines special mud-and-snow tyres with a front-wheel anti-slip gizmo. I suspect even with that it would get stuck in my drive at the slightest appearance of slush.
I've just re-read the brochure, though, and it only claims 'the rugged looks of an SUV', not the abilities. Maybe I'm being unfair judging it against four-wheel-drive competitors, but they shouldn't bring it up if they don't really mean it.
Since they do, it invites comparison not only with the Qashqai but with Volkswagen's 4WD Tiguan, which I tried last year and found better-looking and better-equipped than this. Even if you forget the off-road elements, the 3008 still has to beat the Citroen C4 Picasso and Ford C-Max. So, which one should you pick?
Well, if you're after a cheap family load-lugger there's absolutely nothing wrong with the 3008 - it's bright and sunny to drive, just not much fun to look at. Which I suppose is rich coming from a 37-year-old chef, standing in the cold with a dripping nose, four days' stubble and Lemsip breath.
But that's the great thing about man flu: it means never having to say you're sorry.

New Toyota Wish 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Fauzi) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 14:15:00 +0000

Toyota have launched the new Wish in the Japan market not too long ago, with a new front look. It comes either 1.8 or 2.0 variant. I guess the protruding concept is also being brought over to the Wish as well, as you can see the front headlights is like coming out of the body :p

The new Wish is fitted with the new generation engine with “Valvematic” technology, i guess they renamed VVTL-i to this name, since the technology is variable valve and lift.

The interior looks great, with the triangular window at the side so that you have more view of the road.
This baby also comes with Super CVT-i transmission which gives better fuel economy. Also mentioned is that the 1.8L gives 16Km/L while the 2.0L gives 15.2Km/L. I would say these are pretty impressive figures for the MPV class.
Also available is an Eco Drive mode, i guess in this mode the ECU optimizes the alignment of the driving force with the accelerator operation to offer better fuel economy.
The 1.8L makes about 142 HP with 176 Nm of torque while the 2.0L makes out 156HP with 196Nm of torque.

Have not much idea when will this be available in Malaysia, so which would you choose, the new Wish or the Honda Stream RSZ ? :p

2009 BMW 5-Series and 3-Series Gran Turismo - Gran Turismo x 2

noreply@blogger.com (Fauzi) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 10:03:00 +0000

The new BMW 5-series Gran Turismo is (almost) here - displayed as a thinly veiled concept in Geneva. The nearly identical production version is scheduled to make its debut in Frankfurt this fall; it should be in showrooms before the end of the year. But that's not the entire BMW GT story. The company isn't talking about it yet, but we'll see the same theme again with a 3-series Gran Turismo coming three years from now.

Both Gran Turismos are essentially slope-roofed, four-door hatchbacks. The new niche models intend to carve a space between BMW's station wagon models and its X3/X5/X6 crossovers. As such, the new Gran Turismos share features like an elevated seating position, an optional panoramic glass roof, available four-wheel drive, a two-piece liftgate, and split and power-operated reclining rear seats for two.

Scoot the rear seats all the way back in the 5-series Gran Turismo, and BMW claims you'll find 7-series-equivalent legroom and a 15-cubic-foot trunk. Slide them forward, and you get passenger space equal to that of a 5-series sedan while the cargo hold grows to nearly 20 cubic feet. Fold them down, and there's close to 58 cubic feet of cargo space. Aside from its unique interior configuration, the Gran Turismo also grants us an early look at the design of BMW's next 5-series; the revamped sedan and wagon are due later this year. Under the hood, the GT will offer a twin-turbo six and a 400-hp twin-turbo V-8. Neither an M version nor a manual gearbox is planned.

The smaller 3-series GT promises to be the more athletic of the Gran Turismos. It likely will be offered with the full range of go-faster options, such as an M-style body kit, a performance suspension, eighteen- or nineteen-inch wheels, active steering, and adjustable dampers. The optional AWD system will come with an active differential and a rear-biased torque split. Engine-wise, the3-series GT - like other next-generation 3-series models - will see a return to four-cylinder power, with a twin-turbo 2.0-liter replacing the entry-level in-line six; the 300-hp turbo six will remain the top offering, and again, there will be no M version for the Gran Turismo.

Although BMW won't admit it, there's no doubt that the GT formula has been created primarily to attract older, affluent customers (a.k.a. empty nesters). This clientele appreciates a commanding view of the road, easy entry and exit, and a large luggage area. Importantly, they also have money to spend. And spend they will, as the GTs are likely to be priced higher than the corresponding sedans or wagons.

NEW HONDA CITY 2009 LAUNCHED IN MALAYSIA

noreply@blogger.com (Fauzi) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 11:04:00 +0000

At last, what we are waiting for from Honda Malaysia already launched today. A new version of Honda City 2009. This New Honda City 1.5 L 2009 is completely different in many ways. Specially the exterior design and specification. read more about the full specification of this new baby from Honda Malaysia, The All New Honda City 2009.

A new dawn has emerged to liberate your spirit. Dynamic from the inside out. The all-new City takes you further with class-leading performance, comfort, space and practicality.
New Honda City 1.5 L 2009 makes you do more and feel more with pure emotion that rides with you every day. That is the excitement of substance with exhilarating style.

NEW HONDA CITY 2009 LAUNCHED IN MALAYSIA - FULL SPECIFICATION, PICTURES, PRICE & VIDEO
By kdi • Dec 18th, 2008 • Category: ! CAR SPECS & Buying Guide, ! WEEKLY CAR HIGHLIGHTS >>, Honda

NEW HONDA CITY 2009 LAUNCHED IN MALAYSIA - FULL SPECIFICATION, PICTURES & PRICE

At last, what we are waiting for from Honda Malaysia already launched today. A new version of Honda City 2009. This New Honda City 1.5 L 2009 is completely different in many ways. Specially the exterior design and specification. read more about the full specification of this new baby from Honda Malaysia, The All New Honda City 2009.

A new dawn has emerged to liberate your spirit. Dynamic from the inside out. The all-new City takes you further with class-leading performance, comfort, space and practicality.
New Honda City 1.5 L 2009 makes you do more and feel more with pure emotion that rides with you every day. That is the excitement of substance with exhilarating style.
NEW HONDA CITY 2009 LAUNCHED IN MALAYSIA - FULL SPECIFICATION, PICTURES, PRICE & VIDEO

NEW HONDA CITY 2009 LAUNCHED IN MALAYSIA - FULL SPECIFICATION, PICTURES & PRICE
Available modulo bodykits for the new honda city 2009 1.5l

For performance and practicality, find them both in the all-new City.

The all-new City is engineered for top performance, smooth handling and responsive acceleration.
1.5-litre i-VTEC engine

Maximum power:
120PS [88kW]@6,600rpm
Maximum torque:
145N•m [14.8kg•m]@4,800rpm

NEW HONDA CITY 2009 LAUNCHED IN MALAYSIA - FULL SPECIFICATION, PICTURES, PRICE & VIDEO
By kdi • Dec 18th, 2008 • Category: ! CAR SPECS & Buying Guide, ! WEEKLY CAR HIGHLIGHTS >>, Honda

NEW HONDA CITY 2009 LAUNCHED IN MALAYSIA - FULL SPECIFICATION, PICTURES & PRICE

At last, what we are waiting for from Honda Malaysia already launched today. A new version of Honda City 2009. This New Honda City 1.5 L 2009 is completely different in many ways. Specially the exterior design and specification. read more about the full specification of this new baby from Honda Malaysia, The All New Honda City 2009.

A new dawn has emerged to liberate your spirit. Dynamic from the inside out. The all-new City takes you further with class-leading performance, comfort, space and practicality.
New Honda City 1.5 L 2009 makes you do more and feel more with pure emotion that rides with you every day. That is the excitement of substance with exhilarating style.
NEW HONDA CITY 2009 LAUNCHED IN MALAYSIA - FULL SPECIFICATION, PICTURES, PRICE & VIDEO

NEW HONDA CITY 2009 LAUNCHED IN MALAYSIA - FULL SPECIFICATION, PICTURES & PRICE
Available modulo bodykits for the new honda city 2009 1.5l

For performance and practicality, find them both in the all-new City.

The all-new City is engineered for top performance, smooth handling and responsive acceleration.
1.5-litre i-VTEC engine

Maximum power:
120PS [88kW]@6,600rpm
Maximum torque:
145N•m [14.8kg•m]@4,800rpm

The 1.5-litre i-VTEC powerplant in the all-new City provides classleading performance and fuel economy. Achieving lower fuel consumption without compromising on engine output and even environmental considerations. This New Honda City 1.5 L 2009 engine is compliant with Euro 4 level emission standards.Drive-By-Wire (DBW)

DBW technology controls the engine and
5-speed automatic transmission to give you smoother shifting for reliable acceleration and linear driving performance at regular speed range.
5-Speed Automatic Transmission

The class-leading 5AT offers efficient speed range with its wide and close gear ratio. Power start acceleration is briskly achieved for an exhilarating drive. With fuel economy and quietness on high speed in mind, the excitement never stops. This New Honda City 1.5 L 2009 automatic lock-up control does its job smartly as well as to improve response. Fuel wastage is reduced during low speed with its extended lock up.
Shift Hold Control

Reduces unnecessary gear changes in cornering and supplies acceleration immediately after making a turn.
Paddle Shift**

The paddle shift increases the enjoyment for sporty driving with fingertip gearshift control on the steering wheel.

Suspension

The improved front suspension MacPherson Strut and newly designed rear suspension H-shaped torsion beam are designed for lighter, more comfortable and stable rides.
Lightweight High-Rigidity Body

The all-new City’s body frame is shaped with high tension material and sturdier body structure with coupling efficiency for a high-level balance of riding comfort, steering stability and cabin quietness.

5.0m Minimum Turning Radius

Turn around at the corners and U-turns with the all-new City’s trusted steering ability. Its amazing manoeuvrability is the result of its 5.0m minimum turning radius.
When you’re constantly driven by excitement, it’s a comfort to have a classleading, stylish cabin lounge to unwind in. Even while you’re on the move.
Triple Meter Cluster

For that added vroom of Excitement in the City, the sporty design metallic meters with superior visibility provide the thrill of precision performance. Meanwhile, the speedometer displays a broad range of information including odometer, trip meter, and fuel consumption and range indication.

Large 506-litre Trunk Capacity

The trunk space in the all-new City is much more spacious than it looks. New Honda City 1.5 L 2009 large 506-litre capacity can effortlessly fit 10 shopping bags with maximum storage of up to four 9-inch-wide golf bags.

Underseat Tray**
Practical and convenient underseat storage area is also available for wet umbrellas or footwear. Talk about convenience.

Tilt & Telescopic Steering

The tilt and telescopic adjustable steering wheel is designed with precision adjustment capability to offer optimal steering position.
Vehicle Information Display

The vehicle information display’s function helps drivers to increase awareness in fuel efficient driving with useful data displays on current and average fuel efficiency, and estimated travel distance before refuelling.
Rear Foldable Seats with 60:40 split**

You could use more space with the rear foldable seats which can be folded up to a 60:40 split as an extended luggage area.
Cool Lounge

High temperature outside? The quick-cooling air conditioner quickly brings cabin temperature down to comfortable levels. There are also additional air conditioner ports on the rear seat floor. Yet another class-surpassing feature.

Restful Rear Reclining Seats**

For those long and enjoyable rides in the city, a rear reclining mechanism, soft seat cushioning and textured seating upholstery are designed for the consideration of rear passengers’ comfort.

Driver’s Seat Comfort & Height Adjustment

The all-new City driver’s seat provides riding comfort and driving ease that reduces fatigue through a perfect balance of comfort and holding capability.

The more exciting it gets, the safer it is. The more fun you have on the road, the more efficiently the vehicle protects you from harm.

Passive Safety

Helping protect people when an accident becomes unavoidable.
Driver and front passenger seat airbag system

In a frontal impact of sufficient strength, New Honda City 1.5 L 2009 front airbags instantly inflate and deflate to help reduce injury to the driver and front passenger.

Note: Airbags function correctly only when seatbelts are properly used.

3-point ELR seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters

Pedestrian injury reduction
Honda’s comprehensive approach to safety includes enhanced protection of pedestrians in the event of an accident, using impact-absorbing front components.

Impact-absorbing hood
Impact-absorbing hood hinges
Impact-absorbing front fenders
Impact-absorbing wipers
Impact-absorbing bumpers
Impact-absorbing supporting part of windshield

Body designed for collision compatibility with other vehicles as well as greater pedestrian safety
The all-new City’s body is designed to enhance passenger protection through compatibility with other vehicles, reducing damage incurred by impact.This design prevents the vehicle’s shock-absorbent component from jolting out of alignment with that of the other vehicle. At the same time, this design disperses collision impact over as wide an area as possible for greater efficiency of impact absorption and greatly reduced stress on the cabin.

High-level safety performance in collisions from all directions
Honda performed comprehensive crash testing in pursuit of real-world vehicle occupant safety performance. The all-new City was tested in full frontal collisions with a barrier at 55km/h, frontal offset collisions at 64km/h, side collisions as 50km/h, and rear-end collisions at 50km/h. All these crash test showed that New Honda City 1.5 L 2009 reduces injuries to occupants and preserves survival space.

Active Safety

Helping avoid accidents before occurrence.
ABS with EBD and BA as a standard feature
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) helps prevent the wheels from locking in emergency braking situations and on slippery road surfaces. It increases vehicle stability and control during deceleration to help you avoid accidents. For vehicle stability, the EBD (Electronic Brake Force Distribution) applies braking distribution control between front and rear wheels while the BA (Brake Assist) system generates full braking force with minimal braking pedal input.

* New Honda City 1.5 L 2009 Specifications may vary and are subject to change without prior notice.

From water repellent seats to advanced audio, the all-new City employs the latest technology in its design and function.

Advanced Audio

Music enthusiasts will be pleased to enjoy the advanced audio designed for digital media. Just connect your iPod, MP3 player or USB memory device. It also comes with equalizer modes that give you high-frequency compensation for superb sound clarity. A high-power 45W amplifier and optimally placed 6-channel speakers** match cabin acoustics for listening pleasure. All of these will leave you even more relaxed as there is also a covered audio rack for handy storage, which is also designed for anti-theft.
USB Port & AUX Terminal

The versatile USB jack connects a wide range of devices such as iPod, MP3 players, mobile HDD & USB memory readers. This is to ensure your listening pleasure while automatically supplying power to your device. To further boost the enjoyment of driving, there’s also the AUX jack, which is also able to connect your iPod and MP3 player. It’s nice to be on the road again.

Water Repellent Seats

Spilled your tea on the seat? There’s no need to worry as the new cushion is designed with a protective material for water spills.

Specifications Of New Honda City 2009 In Malaysia

Engine Type : 4 Cylinders, 16 Valve, SOHC i-VTEC
Fuel Supply System : PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection)
Bore & Stroke (mm) : 73.0 X 89.4
Displacement (cc) : 1,497
Compression Ratio : 10.4:1
Maximum Horsepower [PS (kW) @ rpm] : 120 (88) @ 6,600
Maximum Torque [Nm (kg•m) @ rpm] : 145 (14.8) @ 4,800
Drive-by-Wire (DBW) •
Transmission Type : 5-Speed Automatic with Shift Hold Control
Steering : Gear Type Rack & Pinion with Electric Power Assist (EPS)
Overall Ratio : 15.89
Turns, Lock to Lock : 3.29
Turning Radius (m) : 5.0

Braking System Type (Front) : Ventilated Disc
Braking System Type (Rear) : Solid Disc

Suspension System (Front) : MacPherson Strut
Suspension System (Rear) : Torsion Beam Axle

New Honda City 1.5 L 2009 Dimensions

Overall Length (mm) 4,395
Overall Width (mm) 1,715
Overall Height (mm) 1,470
Wheelbase (mm) 2,550
Treads (Front) (mm) 1,490
Treads (Rear) (mm) 1,475
Ground Clearance (mm) 150 (unloaded)
Weight (kg) 1,140
Wheel Size 15 x 5 1/2 J
Tyre Size 175/65R15
Fuel Tank Capacity (Litre) 42
Boot Capacity (Litre) 506 (VDA Method)
Seating Capacity 5

TOYOTA PRIUS HYBRID 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Fauzi) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 15:02:00 +0000

The 3rd Generation Toyota Prius Hybrid

It may be different for the enthusiast but say the word hybrid to the layman and he’ll automatically associate it with the Toyota Prius. And now, the third generation is here, and slated to be launched in Malaysia next month. Let’s have a look at the new iconic hybrid Toyota that you’ll be able to buy at showrooms before the end of the year.

First of all I think it’s best to define what a hybrid car is, and the various types of hybrid cars available on the market. A hybrid vehicle essentially combines two or more power sources to move the vehicle. It commonly refers to hybrid electric vehicles, which combine a combustion engine with electric motors.

When you implement a hybrid system, there are a few ways to configure the combustion engine and electric motors. With the introduction of the Honda Civic Hybrid, we’ve been introduced to the concept of a mild power assist hybrid system, or a mild parallel hybrid system.

In a mild parallel hybrid system, the internal combustion engine is always used as the primary power. A electric motor is installed between the engine and the transmission. It is only used to assist the combustion engine whenever needed, hence Honda calling it an Integrated Motor Assist system. Because the motor steps in whenever the driver demands more power, a smaller and more fuel efficient combustion engine can be used. However with this configuration there is no such thing as a zero emissions full EV mode – the car cannot run solely on the electric motor.

And then you have series hybrid cars, where a combustion engine running at a constant most efficient RPM is used as an electricity generated to power an electric motor, which drives the wheels.

The THS Hybrid Synergy Drive system in the Toyota Prius is of the variant called a full hybrid, a power-split hybrid or a series-parallel hybrid. It offers the best of both world, can run on either the combustion engine only, electric motor only, or both, but is heavier as it has more parts, and more complicated in design.

THS consists of an internal combustion engine, two water-cooled motor-generators (electric motor with dynamo functions), a powersplit device, and a battery pack. The first motor-generator functions as a power generator, converting the internal combustion engine’s mechanical power to electric power, which recharges the battery and supplies electricity to power the second motor-generator. The second motor-generator is used to drive the vehicle. It is mounted on the driveshaft. It also serves as a dynamo during brake-energy regeneration.

Power from the internal combustion engine is split via the power split device and goes to either the front wheels or the first motor-generator. The Prius combustion engine revs independently of the vehicle speed much like how a car with a CVT transmission would, but there is no CVT transmission in a Prius! Some trickery between the power split device, motor-generators and the combustion engine play around with the engine revs that one would find confusing, but the bottom line is the end result is perceived to us as CVT-like. Toyota calls it an ECVT system.

But the best part of such a system is the EV mode where the car runs on the electric motor only. On one end really fast 0 to 100km/h acceleration times can put a smile on your face but I found out that the other end is also true! Complete silence from the car while you are creeping through a traffic jam or looking for parking in a parking lot can be strangely satisfying, it could be something to do with the fact that your car can do something that most likely no other car in that parking lot can do.

The internal combustion engine of the new Prius is the 2ZR-FXE, an Atkinson cycle engine with 1.8 liters of displacement. This is up by 0.3 liters from the previous 2nd gen Prius 1.5 liter engine. The new engine puts out 99 PS compared to 77 PS from the 1.5 liter engine, and 143Nm of torque at 4,000rpm. Now why does a 1.8 liter engine put out so little power you ask? It’s because of the Atkinson cycle – it’s more fuel efficient however has less power density. The engine is now beltless thanks to an electric water pump. The combined output of the motor-generators produce 60kW and 207Nm of torque.

The Prius continues to use a NiMH battery. Some competitors have talked about starting using lithium ion and Toyota says they also have a li-ion battery coming by the end of this year but according to Prius chief engineer Akihiko Otsuka, NiMH and Lithium Ion both have pros and cons. EVs might need the larger capacity of lithium ion batteries, and they can be larger because of the lack of a combustion engine and fuel tank, but in hybrids where the battery can be smaller and of less capacity, NiMH is more suitable as it can sustain a high power output over a shorter period of time. But for plug-in hybrids in the future, they can benefit from lithium ion technology.

Something interesting is an optional feature which is a solar panel on the roof. This panel doesn’t recharge the battery but it actually helps keep the car cool while it is parked under the sun. Unfortunately from what I hear, UMW Toyota specifications for the Prius in Malaysia will not carry this solar panel.

There were no city drives as part of the test drive session that I attended at the Tokachi International racetrack in Hokkaido. Instead, Toyota had designed a series of acceleration and braking patterns set by a pace car over a total of 10.2km on the racetrack that’s meant to emulate city driving. While this isn’t really an indicator of real life driving, CBT’s Thomas Huong and I managed to score a nice average 31.6km per liters fuel consumption, which was the most economical figures of the day.

We later repeated the same track run at full throttle and managed to score about 9km per liter, which is still pretty decent considering it was pedal to the metal for most of the track. I think the Prius would be able to score a decent 20km+ per liter in real life fuel consumption, which is impressive for largeish (you could call it European D segment) car with a 2,700mm wheelbase. The chassis is a common one called the MC platform shared with some Toyota cars such as the RAV4, Estima, Avensis and Auris.

The model with the 17 inch wheels was actually pretty surprisingly fun to drive on the track thanks to a decent chassis with a compliant suspension coupled with the strong torque of the electric motor assist. Grip levels and the tight handling were far lower on the second gen Prius and third gen models with smaller wheels, with VSA stability control kicking in to reel the car in way too often. Big difference – just shows you how much wheels play a part in the dynamics of a car. But all in all, really very surprising for a car that’s focused on boring old fuel economy. Could be something to do with the fact that the chief engineer drives an Alfa Romeo…

The first thing you notice about the interior of the new third generation Prius is the fact that the big Electro Multi Vision touch screen is now gone. Other Prius trademarks are still there such as the tiny shift by wire gearknob and the On button that does nothing but bring some of the dashboard lights up to life. It doesn’t feel like you’re turning a car on but more like an electrical appliance.

The EMV system has been replaced by integrating more displays into the instrumentation panel located at the forward-most end of the dashboard, closest to the windscreen. Stuff like the fuel consumption bar graph history and the real-time display monitoring what sources of power the car is currently powered by are much smaller now but functionality-wise it is much better as they can all be looked at by glancing quickly at the panel instead of looking left at the EMV as per the 2nd generation Prius.

This is all in the interest of keeping the driver focused on the road. Another feature that helps in this aspect is the Touch Tracer system. As the vehicle monitoring display is now near the windscreen, there is no longer any touch screen functions. Instead you control the various displays via steering wheel controls.

You may feel like taking your eyes off the road and glancing at what your steering wheel to look at what button your fingers are resting on. With Touch Tracer you don’t have to do that. The steering wheel controls have dual level sensitivity. Touch lightly and a display on the instrumentation panel that mimics the steering wheel control design shows you what button your finger is touching. Then you activate the button only if you press down a little harder.

All in all the changes to the new Prius makes it look and feel more like a normal car but with exceptional fuel economy rather than a hybrid. The exterior looks way better, less space-age and more sporty, but the interior is more like a regular car, and somehow while it looks much more modern it feels much less expensive compared to the 2nd gen Prius. It’s not just the dashboard but the instrumentation panel – the graphics look quite pixelated. But the third gen is definitely an improvement over the 2nd gen, and the Hybrid Synergy Drive system trumps the motor assist systems of its competitors both in owner experience and in terms of fuel economy.

However in Malaysia the estimated price is expected to hover around a Camry 2.4’s price. That’s quite a premium and if you’re buying this to save fuel, that’s alot of fuel “prepaid”! The drawing factor will undoubtedly be the whole hybrid lifestyle such as the ability for the EV mode, and making an eco statement.

And we still don’t have any clear answers as to how long the battery lasts and how much it costs to replace, though Toyota claims it will last over 10 years and possibly the lifetime of the car. There needs to be a solid answer and guarantee for this. Perhaps a longer warranty for the battery compared to the rest of the car will give better customer confidence. More details on the Malaysian specifications for the Prius will come when the car is launched next month.

Perodua To Sell 5,000 Limited Edition Cars

noreply@blogger.com (Fauzi) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 11:05:00 +0000

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 24 (Bernama) -- Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Sdn Bhd (Perodua) will produce and sell 5,000 limited edition cars beginning today.

" The 1.3 Myvi Exclusive Edition is built for Myvi enthusiasts who demand style and luxury, minus the premium price associated with executive cars," said its Managing Director Datuk Syed Abdull Hafiz Syed Abu Bakar in a statement on Saturday.

Available in automatic transmission, the Myvi exclusive edition comes in Ebony black, ivory white and medallion grey and is priced between RM51,000 and RM51,500.

The Myvi is Malaysia's top selling model and over 354,000 units have been sold since May 2005.

Perodua recorded the highest ever sale of Myvi in a single month with 9,370 units sold in July 2009.

--BERNAMA

Tucson to get new Leaf

noreply@blogger.com (Fauzi) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 11:02:00 +0000

Nissan's all-electric car rolls into town this fall as part of a promotional tour.

A rolling version of the all-electric Nissan Leaf, the plug-in car that will be test- marketed in Tucson, Phoenix and several other North American cities in 2011, is coming to Tucson on a promotional tour in late November and early December.
There's no word yet on exactly which days it will be here or where it will be on display, said Nissan spokeswoman Katherine Zachary.
The 11-state, 22-city Nissan Leaf Zero Emission Tour, which was just announced, will showcase the car, its battery technology and Nissan's goals for the program. he Leaf is projected to have a 100-mile range under normal driving conditions.
No price has been announced for the cars.
A private company has been lined up to build a network of public quick-charge stations in Tucson, Phoenix and along Interstate 10 between the cities.
Zachary said the Leaf on the tour will be a display-only vehicle, a show version of the car created by the Renault-Nissan alliance and sold in the U.S. as a Nissan Leaf. She said the Leaf's all-electric drivetrain will be demonstrated during the tour in a Nissan Versa body.
But we are getting our first look at the Nissan Leaf as it will appear when it goes into production.
The latest photos of the Leaf, shown here, are of a right-hand-drive version, built for the Japanese market, but otherwise identical to what will be sold in the United States, Zachary said.

New VW GTI Launched With iPhone App, Mazda Diesels Could Come To U.S

noreply@blogger.com (Fauzi) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 10:52:00 +0000

The 2010 Golf GTI is making it’s away across the U.S. and in the lead up to its arrival in showrooms Volkswagen has launched the car in its App Store, with the availability of the new “Real Racing GTI” game. [Motor Authority]

Mazda caught a lot of flak earlier this year for stating outright that it would answer every other brand's hybrids with clean diesels, then promptly flip-flopping and saying it was working on hybrids. The latest news comes straight out of Tokyo as the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show continues on, with the company's head of R&D Seita Kanai hinting that the automaker may launch a diesel in the U.S. if the market conditions were right. [Automotive News, sub req’d]

Toyota’s version of the Lexus HS 250h has made its debut in Japan. Called the Sai, the new compact hybrid will only be sold in Japan and by the looks of it we’re glad. [World Car Fans]

Infiniti is launching a new “Forest Air” climate control system for its 2011 M range. While it still offers cooling and heating, it adds to the package with air flow, odor and humidity controls. [Motor Trend]

Across the pond Honda, together with its Mugen performance arm, has confirmed that it will build 20 of its Mugen Civic Type-R road-legal race cars. A 2.0-liter high-rev engine with 236-horsepower in a car the size of a Fit--enough said. [EVO]

He may have just won the 2009 Formula One World Championship crown but the Jenson Button is selling off his assets, in this case a Black Bugatti Veyron that we hope hasn’t been trashed at a race track. [Autocar]

General Motors CEO Fritz Henderson will take a 25% pay cut as a part of President Obama’s pay reduction for the top 175 executives at seven companies that received the government’s bailout money this year. If you’re wondering, Fritz’s pay will reduce to $950,000 per year. [Detroit Free Press]

PERODUA MPV

noreply@blogger.com (Fauzi) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 15:10:00 +0000

PETALING JAYA, Oct 20 (Bernama) -- Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Sdn Bhd (Perodua) expects to sell 176,000 cars in 2010 with the launch of its multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) which is expected to boost the sales.

Managing director, Syed Abdull Hafiz Syed Abu Bakar, said the second national car was on track to meet its target of 162,000 units for 2009 despite the global economic slowdown.

It sold 167,000 units in 2008.

"We are looking at bullish market in 2010 because we have three strong models to sell, MPV, Viva and Myvi," he told reporters after the launch of its RM6 million Body & Paint Hub (B&P Hub) here Tuesday.

"With the new MPV, which is expected to bring in sales of about 3,500-4,000 units a month, the Myvi, the best seller with over 70,000 units sold a year and over 50,000 units sold for Viva, we believe next year will bring us into a new record year," he said.

The new MPV will be launched in early November with the selling price ranging from RM56,000 to RM65,000 per unit.

Syed Abdull Hafiz said he was optimistic the 2009 car sales would surpass the Malaysian Automotive Association's full-year total industry volume forecast of 500,000 units.

"Although, the forecast number is lower compared with last year's 548,115 units, the local motor vehicle industry is still not bad compared with other countries as consumer spending is still strong.

"Personally, I believe sales can touch as high as 520,000 units," he said.

On the National Automotive Policy review, Syed Abdull Hafiz said Perodua hoped the government would continue to support the local industry players.

"We want the industry to develop, we don't want an oversupply, especially in terms of the numbers of vendors," he said, adding that he hoped Perodua and Proton would continue lead the passenger car market with 75 per cent share.

Meanwhile, Perodua's sales and after sales director, Ahmad Suhaimi Anuar, said the company planned to build four new B&P hubs by 2012 with investment of between RM4 million and RM6 million each.

Two of the four hubs would be in the northern and southern regions of the Klang Valley while the remaining two will be in the northern and southern regions of Peninsular Malaysia.

He said Perodua service intakes were forecast to increase to 1.56 million this year from 1.37 million in 2008.

For the first nine months of this year, Perodua service outlets recorded a total of 1.2 million intakes.

-- BERNAMA

Family Vehicles and MPV's - The Rundown

noreply@blogger.com (Fauzi) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 03:25:00 +0000

Because the children are soon returned to the parents, the school is prepared to attend school again.

This year it seems a host of special family minivans, practical, comfortable and stylish .... How do you decide which one to buy?

Here is a list of the five largest family minivans is to:

1. Opel Zafira - The Opel Zafira is always been marketed as a family business vehicle on the market, it is by the fact that he saved in the class-leading safety. Inside the Zafira is very spacious, which makes it possible to meet the needs of an active family. After checking the Zafira also one of the best vans is going on, in fact, some even say it makes driving fun! Is doing in regards to its appearance, the Zafira is not all that exciting and is somewhat similar to other vans on the market.

2. Citroen C4 Picasso Citroen C4 Picasso is certainly one of the most beautiful cars in the family - and stands out from the rest. The panoramic windscreen is a feature that stands out in particular. This van is spacious inside with plenty of space as it is the 7-seater. He is so comfortable and is ideal for long journeys. The C4 Picasso is 5 a.m. to 7 p.m., with two seats, which means that you choose one, which best suit your lifestyle!

3. Renault Scenic: The Smart looks like Renault Scenic, is pretty sophisticated-looking MPV. The cabin is spacious and the trunk is a good size. However, the Scenic is not the most exciting car will not go there - that you expect that you really enjoy driving a vehicle designed with families, but it helps! Another positive point about this MPV is the special quality in the cabin ... You will be surprised!

4. Ford S-Max: The Ford S-Max is a bit like the Ford Galaxy, but it is much more athletic. It has a 2.5 turbo engine, it's fun to drive and does not allow transactions in your "fun" car for a "practical car" quite so bad. The S-Max is pretty cheap to buy and run, which is good news for your wallet! But just as the Zafira, the style of this car is nothing special and really make out from the crowd. So basically, S-Max is a galaxy, more sports!

5. Toyota Verso: The back of the Toyota is like the Ford S-Max, but much more compact. The style is more dynamic that makes it pleasant to the eye. It is certainly one of the "less-boxy" anybody there. The interior has been fitted with fabric Nice and attractive blue lighting. The seating arrangement is also flexible, which means that the back is well suited to meet the needs of an active family. This particular minivan is a good price, but I have a used Toyota Verso in Swindon is very, very affordable ... Verso makes my choice!

Lucy Penn is an online marketer and researcher, studied the used Toyota Verso in Swindon http://www.carshop.co.uk/car-guides/view/233/used-toyota-verso

NEW TOYOTA MPV

noreply@blogger.com (Fauzi) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 03:04:00 +0000

Toyota Launches New Verso MPV 2.2 D-CAT 150 with Automatic Transmission

The new Toyota Verso MPV range in the UK has been updated with the introduction of a 2.2 D-CAT 150 diesel engine coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission that was also recently launched on the Avensis. The 2.2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder diesel unit produces an output of 150 horsepower at 3,600rpm and maximum torque of 340Nm available from 2,000rpm. Acceleration from rest to 62mph comes in 10.1 seconds, official combined cycle fuel economy is 41.5mpg UK (34.6 mpg US or 6.8 lt / 100km) and CO2 emissions are 178g/km.

The seven-seater MPV with the 2.2 D-CAT 150 is available in the UK in Verso TR and T Spirit grades with both versions fitted as stand

ard with 17-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels. Prices have been set at £20,835 for the TR, £22,265 for the T Spirit.

NISSAN MPV 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Fauzi) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 02:58:00 +0000

NEW NISSAN MPV BEST SUPERMINI

Nissan Note is What Car? Used Supermini of the Year 2009

19 October 2009

One of the UK’s best value new superminis is now an award winning used car too. Nissan’s super-versatile Note has swept aside the competition to scoop the title of What Car? Used Car of the Year 2009 - Best Supermini.

And it is with gushing praise that the expert used car judges at What Car? handed over the award to the British built Nissan. Readers of the What Car? Used Car of the Year 2009 supplement are told: “You’ll be surprised just how much room there is inside. In fact, it’s so successful in its use of space that you can almost think of it as a small MPV, rather than a supermini.”

Having bettered every rival in its class, the Note very nearly won the overall What Car? Used Car of the Year 2009 title, but instead finished runner-up to a more costly family saloon.

On sale in the UK since March 2006, the Note offers great value for money for any used car buyer searching for space, style and quality in an amazingly compact package.

A range of frugal petrol and diesel engines are available, meaning there is a used Note to suit every driver.

Nissan’s UK MD, Paul Willcox comments: “This is a tremendous accolade for the Note, which is proving not only to be a superb new car purchase but also a great option for used car buyers. We’ve worked tirelessly to push the boundaries of quality and durability expected in the supermini class, and this is helping the Note to remain dependable and desirable for buyers of both new and second-hand examples.”

MPV PERODUA

noreply@blogger.com (Fauzi) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 02:52:00 +0000

NEW MPV FROM PERODUA..

The new Toyota MPV that the Perodua MPV will be based on has been unveiled! Click the linked text to find out how the new MPV looks like as well as its dimensions and specifications.

An interview with Perodua managing director Datuk Hafiz Syed Abu Bakar in The Edge Weekly has revealed some plans about Perodua this year. For one, Perodua will be undergoing a rebranding sometime in the middle of the year, which will coincide with the launch of the new Perodua Kembara. The rebranding exercise will also give Perodua a new logo, which will be more of a restyled evolution of the current one rather than something new.

The new Perodua Kembara will come with a 1.5 liter engine (likely the 3SZ-VE) and will have four-wheel drive. It will not be assembled locally by Perodua but will be a CBU import from Japan. It will be a low volume product, and the expected price tag is likely to be more than the Toyota Rush because of its higher specs (the 4WD drivetrain) and Japan sourcing. It will be targetted at the urban, upper-middle income group. Expect the new Perodua Kembara to be based on the short wheel base Daihatsu Terios with a May 2008 launch date.

Another surprise revealed in the article is Perodua’s plans for 2009. Perodua will launch a new three row 6-seater MPV by the end of 2009. Datuk Hafiz likened it to a Toyota Wish, but a smaller version. I wonder what could this be based on. Can’t really think of any compact 6-seaters from Daihatsu/Toyota other than the Daihatsu Gran Max, but that’s more of a Rusa-like van. (UPDATE: The Perodua MPV codenamed D46T will be based on the “>Toyota Passo Sette!)

If you read this article by Xinhua News Agency posted on the 5th of March 2008. it is revealed that Toyota and Daihatsu is developing a new MPV in Indonesia. The MPV is set to be launched in 2009. This model is could be the one that the new 2009 Perodua MPV will be based on.

Anyway whatever it is, it’s something to look forward to next year. 2009 seems to be the year of the MPVs.

PROTON EXORA MPV

noreply@blogger.com (Fauzi) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 02:25:00 +0000

New from Proton MPV

The new Proton Exora with manual transmission is now on the market and it’s only available in the M-Line trim level, which means basics without fancies like DVD players and GPS units, cloth seats, alloy wheels, and some body-coloured parts instead of chrome bits. It’s priced at RM64,998 for the metallic version and RM64,548 for the solid-coloured version. No ultra-basic no frills Exora B-Line in sight yet so far, but the manual transmission version is very welcome for those who want to save abit more fuel with the Exora, and the manual’s 12% transmission losses which is less than the automatic should result in more of the Campro CPS 125 horsepower going to the front wheels, thus improving the Exora’s lethargic acceleration.

Some of us have already had a go at an Exora equipped with a manual transmission during the prototype test drive and other than the fact that there’s more power that actually reaches the wheels, the manual model with more gear ratios also provides a little more flexibility with picking the right gear depending on the load on the engine. With the automatic model you tend to be working the 2nd gear most of the time, which means alot of high revving sometimes. The good news is NVH is significantly better than models like the Satria Neo so it isn’t that bad of a racket.

Next a B-Line model could come out, but the ultimate would be towards the end of next year where the Proton Exora with the Campro 1.6 Turbo will be launched. The Exora will finally get the engine it deserves and then you’ll have a combination of a very competitive price, good interior space, air conditioning all around, and a more relaxed engine that’s easier to drive because of more low end torque.After a long long wait, Malaysians finally have a decently sized MPV at a decent price to choose from. The new Proton Exora is here and two variants will be available at launch time – a 1.6 liter automatic high-line and a 1.6 liter automatic medium-line, priced at RM75,998.00 and RM69,998.00 respectively OTR with insurance. Head on after the jump for the full scoop on the Exora.......