55,354 units of Honda vehicles assembled in Malaysia in 2018 and 2019 are being recalled to replace a fuel pump. This move follows a global action by Honda in many other countries.
It is understood that the fuel pump in affected vehicles may contain faulty impellers. The fault may, in some cases, cause the fuel pump to get stuck and unable to provide fuel, resulting in the engine not starting or stalling while driving.
According to Honda Malaysia, no injuries or accidents have occurred due to fuel pump issues and the replacement is a precautionary measure. The models affected are shown on the chart below:
In a statement issued today, Honda Malaysia apologises for the inconvenience caused to the affected customers and reassures that all its models produced in 2020 are not affected in this product recall.
Owners of affected vehicles will be informed via notification letters which will include details of the product recall. The company urges owners to contact any Honda authorized dealer to make an appointment upon receipt of notification to replace the fuel pump (subject to parts availability). The replacement of the fuel pump and all related costs will be free of charge.
The recall includes the hybrid models as well (HR-V Hybrid pictured).
As the Honda Toll Free number is undergoing technical maintenance, owners can obtain more information on this product recall by contacting any Honda authorized dealer or log on to www.honda.com.my to check their vehicle status.
In the event that you are not the original owner of the vehicle, your contact details may not be available to Honda Malaysia and you might not receive a notification letter. If you believe your vehicle is also among the affected units, you can contact a Honda authorised dealer for assistance to check on the matter.
UMW Toyota Motor has just unveiled their latest model for the Malaysian market, the 2020 Toyota RAV4. The fifth-generation model has seen a lot of excitement built up in the past few weeks prior to the launch and now, the Toyota RAV4 is bigger and better than ever before.
We were given the opportunity to test out the 2.5-litre variant yesterday during a very well-organised media drive (with social distancing and hygiene being their number one priority due to the COVID-19 pandemic) and we had a few hours of fun driving around in the SUV. (more…)
The Toyota RAV4 is a historically significant model in Toyota’s line-up. Introduced in 1994, it came at a time when motorists were beginning to appreciate SUVs and created a new segment in the car market almost overnight.
While the earlier SUVs (which were also rather big) were traditionally based on chassis-on-frame construction, Toyota designed the RAV4 with a monocoque bodyshell – the same as a passenger car. So it handled like a car and was also almost as comfortable; for many making the switch to the RAV4, the transition was easy as it felt like a passenger car when driven.
First generation of the RAV4 which created a new market segment almost overnight from the mid-1990s.
The RAV4 set off an ‘explosion’ in the SUV segment and in the years that followed, virtually every manufacturer would introduce a SUV (if it didn’t have one) or expand its SUV range. Demand kept growing and even the luxury segment began to have SUVs.
In 2019, the RAV4 was the world’s best-selling SUV and to date, over 10 million units have been sold worldwide. Now comes the fifth generation of the model which got off to a good start by being voted Japan’s Car of the Year 2019-2020.
The all-new RAV4 imported by UMW Toyota Motor is available in two variants with 2.0-litre and 2.5-litre engines, priced at RM196,436 and RM219,664.50 (Peninsular Malaysia price, excluding insurance premium). The vehicles are imported as Completely Built-Up (CBU) units from Japan and come with a 5-year/unlimited mileage warranty. [Click here for price list]
The prices are higher than the popular rivals in the local market but bear in mind that the RAV4 is imported as CBU from Japan whereas competitors in the same class such as the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5 are assembled locally with lower tax imposed on them (apart from getting incentives from the government for investments in local assembly). And the strength of the ringgit (or lack of it) these days also has an impact on pricing.
Evolving with trends
Over the years, the RAV4 has grown in size from the original design. The latest generation, with an overall length of 4600 mm, it is 445 mm longer than the first generation, while the overall width of 1855 mm is 160 mm wider. The wheelbase of 2690 mm is 280 mm longer. This moved the RAV4 up a notch is size categorisation and Toyota filled its place with the more compact C-HR.
The styling also evolved with trends although even the first generation was stylish in its own way. The latest fifth generation has an octagonal theme giving a chiseled appearance with a front end that is bolder.
The door mirrors have been repositioned from the window panel to the door panel, increasing forward visibility around the A-pillars and contributing to a general increase in all-round visibility for better situational awareness.
Concept sketch for the new RAV4 shows how the octagonal theme was adopted, giving the model a chiselled appearance.
The RAV4 rides on 18-inch alloy wheels, wrapped with 225/60R18 dual-purpose tyres. Unlike the earlier RAV4s, the spare wheel is no longer on the rear door – which used to be a must for the SUV image. These days, apart from a few models, the spare wheel is carried on board and in the case of the RAV4, it’s a space-saver type for emergency use only. Thankfully, it isn’t hung under the vehicle like the traditional SUVs.
Joining the TNGA era
While the original RAV4 departed from traditional SUV construction by having a unitary monocoque structure, the latest model has TNGA, which stands for Toyota New Global Architecture. This is the brand new platform developed for use in a wide range of new Toyota models.
The TNGA structure is also monocoque and is 57% more rigid. With the adoption of a ring structure, the torsional rigidity of the body has increased. Contributing to the rigidity is the reinforcement in many areas, strengthening the structure. This enhances agility while also providing a smoother, quieter ride.
Adopting the TNGA platform allowed the engineers to position the powertrain lower down which means a lower centre of gravity for better stability. Using high-strength hot-stamped steel and aluminium have also reduced weight in the upper body, again helping to shift the centre of gravity downwards. A new saddle-style fuel tank distributes weight of the fuel evenly side-to-side.
The suspension consists of MacPherson struts at the front and trailing wishbones, a straightforward layout which is clearly oriented towards on-road driving rather than off-road motoring. Handling and comfort were the priorities and a select group of takumi (highly trained master craftsmen) helped to refine the ride comfort, focusing on tuning details.
A new steering system is installed in the RAV4. The new parallel-type electric power steering system is rack-mounted rather than column-mounted, unlike the previous model. The new design helps enhance turning response and gives a natural feel that can help reduce fatigue on long drives.
The engineers also gave a lot of attention to reducing noise levels in the cabin, this aspect being important to the perception of quality. The reinforcements in the structure help, along with low noise features like integrating the floor silencer and expanding the surface area of damping materials.
Practical interior with car ambience
With the new platform, the interior designers took the opportunity to do a complete redesign of the cabin. As with earlier RAV4s, the interior concept focusses on practicality but blends in modern passenger car ambience with many convenience features.
The new dashboard layout incorporates a slimmed-down instrument panel which is installed low, giving the driver better visibility. Bright and clear Optitron meters (originally developed for the Lexus luxury models) are used on the instrument panel. The TFT Combination Meter can be switched between analog and digital displays.
Infotainment is right up to date with a 7-inch display and a range of connectivity options such as Mirrorlink, Miracast, AUX and Bluetooth. AppleCarPlay and Android Auto are also available so occupants can connect their compatible smartphone and access apps from the dashboard. There’s also voice command which enables management of certain features or handsfree telephony.
Seating comfort is improved with thicker cushions and enlarged lumbar support pads and there’s also a Seat Ventilation System installed – something which you usually find on luxury models.
Large cargo space with auto-opening door
The RAV4 is a 5-seater with two rows of seats, and the back row can be folded flat to increase the cargo floor length for more cargo volume. The cargo area is large enough to even accommodate a 62-inch bicycle with the front wheels having to be removed.
Where the earliest RAV4s had side-hinged rear doors, the door for latest one is top-hinged. There are pros and cons to this as a top-hinged door requires extra space behind the vehicle to open whereas you can open a side-hinged door a bit to put things in. But what will be greatly appreciate is not just powered operation for opening and closing but also a handsfree operation. Placing a foot under the rear bumper will unlatch the door and it raises automatically – a great feature to have when both your hands are full.
Feedback from owners of earlier generations told the new RAV4 development team that many owners have outdoor activities. This led them to come up with useful features to support such activities. For example, the inside handle of the rear door can be used for clothes hangers or camping lights. The wide and long ceiling can be used as a storage area with a nylon strap strung across the passenger grips. Numerous hooks are available to secure irregular-sized luggage as well.
A new engine family
With this new generation, the RAV4 gets an entirely new powertrain with Dynamic Force engines. Lighter and more powerful, these 4-cylinder petrol engines have a combination of a very high compression ratio (13:1), advanced D4-S fuel injection (combining direct and secondary port injectors), high-speed combustion technologies, VVT-iE intelligent variable valve-timing (both sides), and ultra-low internal friction. The thermal efficiencies are as high as 40%, double the average of most internal combustion engines.
The 2.5-litre version produces up to 207 ps/243 Nm of torque while the 2.0-litre engine produces up to 173 ps/207 Nm. The bigger engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission (Direct Shift 8-AT) but for the 2-litre unit, there’s a CVT with Sequential Shiftmatic.
For both transmissions, the driver can choose from Eco, Normal and Sport modes to suit driving preference or conditions. Selection of the preferred mode is done by pressing switches on the centre console. Paddle shifters are also provided (both variants), allowing the driver to make manual selections without removing the hands from the steering wheel.
Both variants have front-wheel drive rather than 4-wheel drive. When the RAV4 was first introduced, SUVs all had 4-wheel drive although there were also 2-wheel drive variants available, especially for the flatter regions of the US market. But as time went on, manufacturers found that the new generation of SUV buyers didn’t seem to care much for 4WD. Omitting 4WD meant weight reduction, with cost savings which could be used to provide more features. Those who had to have 4WD could still get it in more expensive variants but the majority were satisfied with 2WD.
Integrated active safety systems
Like most of the latest Toyota models, active safety systems are no longer independent elements but integrated to work together to help the driver avoid accidents and maintain better control of the vehicle. Besides the now-standard provision of systems such as ABS, Traction Control and Vehicle Stability Control, Toyota has developed an integrated package known as Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) which is used in the RAV4 and many of the Toyota’s latest models.
TSS consists of four driver-assistance systems – Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert with Lane Tracing Assist, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control at All Speeds (DRCC), and Automatic High Beam (AHB). Lane Tracing Assist operates using the camera and radar to recognize lane markers or the preceding vehicle’s driving path. It estimates the vehicle’s position in the lane and then implements steering assist to remain in the lane, even on roads with curves.
Lane Tracing Assist guides the RAV4 along curves.
DRCC is a more advanced form of cruise control which can vary the cruising speed depending on conditions, while AHB detects the headlights of an oncoming vehicle or tail lights of a vehicle ahead and automatically switches to low beams.
Other safety features and systems in the RAV4 include Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert both of which alert the driver when other vehicles are in the blind spot during changing lanes and reversing.
Besides the camera used for the TSS, there are also six other cameras around the vehicle. The first two are the Driving Video Recorders (DVR) mounted in the front and rear positions inside the cabin and the other four cameras are tiny one installed around the body for 360-degree coverage. The driver can view the surrounding areas next to the vehicle while parking, a great benefit in narrow or tight parking spaces.
Apart from the engine immobilizer and alarm system, UMWT also installs a Vehicle Telematics System (VTS) in the RAV4. This system uses GPS/GSM for tracking so if the vehicle is stolen, its location can be identified quickly and the authorities informed to recover the vehicle. The service provider for the VTS can also provide emergency assistance from its 24-hour command centre.
Visit www.toyota.com.my to find out more about the new RAV4 and where to view it.
Bookings made from now up to June 30, 2020 will be entitled to an additional 1-year warranty extension, and up to additional 2-years free insurance (depending on model).
Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP) is offering customers even further versatility and flexibility for those buying a new Porsche Macan with the new Porsche 360 Financing+, applicable from now up to 31 December 2020. This new extension of SDAP’s current 360 Financing programme starts from RM6,300 a month with up to 30% reduced monthly repayments compared to conventional financing (for the Macan).
Maximum financing of up to 90% of the vehicle value is available with financing periods starting from 12 months up to 60 months.
The last time a Ford Mustang Mach 1 was displayed for sale in showrooms in America was 17 years ago. It’s never been forgotten by Mustang fans and there must also have been people within the company who wanted to see it revived with the latest generation.
Now it is back and like the original Mach 1 in 1969, the all-new descendant bridges the gap between Mustang GT and Shelby models. “Bold styling, great acceleration and speed – Mach 1 says it all,” said Jim Farley, Ford’s Chief Operating Officer. “This is one of those special Mustangs that truly brings a smile to the faces of our owners, enthusiasts and fans – including me – so there’s never been a better time to bring back Mach 1 and have it go global too.”
Most track-capable 5-litre Mustang
The all-new Mustang Mach 1 is set to become the most track-capable 5-litre Mustang ever, thanks to a newly designed front end, plus Ford Performance parts from the Mustang Shelby GT350 and Shelby GT500 models as well as an optional Handling Package for greater at-limit handling.
The specially tuned V8 engine has a projected 480 bhp at 7,000 rpm and 570 Nm of torque at 4,600 rpm. Integrated into the engine are revised Shelby GT350 components including the intake manifold, oil filter adapter and engine oil cooler, increasing engine oil cooling capability by 50%.
The Mach 1 also comes standard with a Tremec 3160 6-speed manual transmission from the Shelby GT350. And for the first time, Ford has added rev-matching while the transmission is paired with the GT350 oil cooler system and the Mustang GT’s twin-disc clutch and short-throw shifter.
Drivers can also opt for the 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission with an upgraded torque converter and unique calibration that enables optimizing torque capability, shift character and overall enhanced performance. A second air-to-oil cooler increases cooling capacity by 75%.
Recapturing Mach 1 style
The new Mach 1’s grille harkens back to the original with a deep 3D mesh, shark-nosed section and faux lamp elements. Flanking the fascia are new side grilles below each turn signal lamp. A low-gloss Magnetic pony badge is centered on the grille, with low-gloss magnetic and black accents providing a premium look. Yet everything is true to Mach 1’s bold heritage, including low-gloss Magnetic mirror caps and the rear spoiler.
Focus on downforce
A front splitter optimized to the fascia shape improves track performance and provides a more aggressive appearance, while a matched rear spoiler works in concert to create ideal lift balance. Mach 1 features 22% more downforce than a Mustang GT with Performance Pack Level 1 and the downforce improvement jumps to approximately 150% with the Handling Package.
A new underbelly pan, the car’s most aerodynamically important upgrade, extends further rearward than on a Mustang GT Performance Pack to smooth and increase the airflow under the front of the car. Large underwing features in the belly pan increase downforce, while special belly pan airfoils in the brake cooling ramps improve downforce and assist the brake cooling flow – a first for Mustang.
The interior features a unique Dark Spindrift instrument panel with aluminium accents. Ebony seats with an accent stripe hint at Mach 1 heritage in cars equipped with a leather interior. Other interior upgrades include new door sill plates, an updated splash screen on the 12.3-inch all-LCD instrument cluster, a white cue ball shift knob, and engraved badging that displays the vehicle’s unique chassis number.
This generation of the Mustang is the first one which has righthand drive variants engineered and built at the factory for wider global sales. However, for now, Ford will only concentrate on supplying to the North American market.
Sime Darby Auto ConneXion also offers the latest Mustang with 2.3-litre EcoBoost and 5-litre engines. Visit www.sdacford.com.my to know more.
Mazda and Ford had a relationship that went back to the mid-1970s and by many accounts, it was a successful one. One of the successful joint efforts to come out of the partnership was the pick-up truck program which saw the development of the Mazda BT-50 and Ford Ranger, along with a 50:50 investment in a brand new factory in Thailand to build the vehicles.
However, by 2015, the automotive world had changed substantially, and Ford was also going through challenging times. It decided to end the long partnership with Mazda that year by selling off its remaining shares in the company. Further collaboration was also not considered, and an announcement was made that the next Ranger generation would not involve Mazda (and we now know that it will involve Volkswagen).
A new association with Isuzu
At the time of the announcement in 2017, a Mazda executive would only suggest that the reason for not developing the next Ranger and BT-50 together with Mazda was due to ‘business considerations’. The Ford package was not as commercially attractive to Mazda as what was offered by Isuzu Motors for its next generation of pick-up trucks.
Actually, Isuzu and Mazda had already been working together for some years on commercial vehicles in the Japanese market. The new agreement would see Isuzu providing its D-MAX pick-up for adaption to become the new generation of the Mazda BT-50. It’s not known how much involvement Mazda had in the current D-MAX which was launched in October last year.
Like other Mazda models, KODO design language is used and differentiates the BT-50 from the Isuzu D-MAX (inset).
The result of the project has now been revealed with preliminary information and pictures of the new BT-50 being released. Mazda’s designers have done a good job of differentiating the Mazda model from the D-MAX. It’s not one of those vehicles which will draw remarks like ‘just a badge-engineered job’.
Immediate brand recognition
As with all current Mazda models, the KODO design language is used, giving immediate brand recognition. Mazda’s designers have adapted the KODO design theme to present an image of ‘power, toughness and utilitarian functionality’ suited to a pick-up truck.
The platform for the new BT-50 is identical to the one developed for the latest D-MAX.
Just as there were tiny engineering differences between the Mazda Tribute and Ford Escape SUVs, there seems to be the same subtle differences between the new BT-50 and D-MAX. Mazda says it developed the BT-50 ‘with the intention of making travel and the time spent inside the vehicle exceptionally pleasant’. Its focus is therefore on personal transport for leisure more than a workhorse role although the D-MAX genes should still give it plenty of capability for those who use it for business.
The 1.9-litre Blue Power engine too?
The information available is still limited and a 3-litre turbodiesel engine is mentioned. This would be an Isuzu unit and it remains to be seen whether the 1.9-litre Blue Power turbodiesel will also be offered in the BT-50. Mazda’s strategy could be to cater to a niche segment with smaller volumes, rather than try to compete over a broad spectrum of customers with extra engine options.
For now, Mazda has indicated that the new BT-50 will have a 3-litre turbodiesel engine which will be Isuzu’s (left). It’s not known if the new model will get Isuzu’s 1.9-litre Blue Power engine (right) as well.The BT-50 will be manufactured for Mazda at Isuzu’s global production hub for the D-MAX in Thailand.
The new BT-50 will be manufactured by Isuzu Motors at its D-MAX production hub in Thailand. It will go on sale in that market later this year and as it is also a CBU import for the Malaysian market, we could see it here before the year ends too.
Visit www.mazda.com.my to know more about Mazda models available in Malaysia.
Following on from the launch of the G05 BMW X5 a year ago, BMW Malaysia has now added an electrified variant – the X5 xDrive45e M Sport – to the range. Excluding insurance premium and with the 10% Sales Tax exemption as the model is assembled locally in Kedah, the retail price is RM440,745.
The bestselling model of BMW’s SAV (Sport Activity Vehicle) range worldwide, the X5 has accounted for more than 25% of the X range sold in Malaysia with over 3,000 units delivered. The latest electrified variant has the same larger proportions of the current generation which is the fourth X5 since the model line was launched in 1999.
Additionally, it has slim Adaptive LED headlights with BMW Selective Beam and front LED foglights and the M Sport package. This package includes 20-inch M light alloy wheels in Star Spoke style 740 M Bicolour, along with the signature M Sport brake.
Powering the X5 xDrive45e M Sport is a 3-litre 6-cylinder engine with BMW eDrive technology. With a combined maximum output of 394 bhp/ 600 Nm, the new SAV is claimed to have a top speed of 235 km/h and a 0 to 100 km/h capability of 5.6 seconds.
Running with just the electric motor, the claimed range can be up to 77 kms on a fully charged lithium-ion battery pack, with a top speed of 135 km/h. With the hybrid powertrain optimising fuel efficiency, the fuel consumption is said to be up to 40 kms/litre.
All X5s have all-wheel drive (except for one variant specifically for the US market) which is provided by BMW’s proven xDrive system. Power delivery first goes through a revised 8-speed Steptronic transmission with enhanced shift dynamics and then to all four wheels with torque distribution according to grip and surface conditions. The X5 xDrive45e M Sport is now also equipped with the 2-axle air suspension on the front and rear axles, maximising its dynamic ability and comfort.
Inside the SAV
The highlight of the X5 xDrive45e M Sport is the BMW Live Cockpit Professional with Gesture Control and Intelligent Personal Assistant. This infotainment system combines a 12.3-inch Fully Digital Instrument Display with an equally large touchscreen Control Display. Rear passengers have the Rear Seat Entertainment Professional with a 10.2-inch touchscreen monitor.
The cockpit has Vernasca leather upholstery and like other M Sport versions, comes with the M leather-wrapped steering wheel (with electric adjustment) and Sport front seats. 4-zone automatic air conditioning distributes cool air throughout the cabin efficiently while the 464W 16-speaker Harman Kardon Surround Sound audio system provides superior sound reproduction.
Depending on how much cargo has to be carried on board, the capacity of the boot can be varied from 500 litres with all seats in use to 1,720 litres at maximum. Automatic operation of the split tailgate with contactless opening and closing functions makes loading easier. The top section can be opened electrically, while the bottom section is released manually.
Advanced driver aids
Next-level driving assistance is offered via the BMW Personal CoPilot. This includes the Lane Departure Warning and Lane Changing Warning. The system also features the Frontal Collision Warning with braking intervention, Rear Crossing Traffic Warning, Rear Collision Prevention as well as information on speed limits.
Additionally, the new SAV is equipped with the intelligent Parking Assistant Plus with Surround View Camera, along with the Reversing Assistant. This makes manoeuvring in and out of a parking spot and also reversing in tight spaces much easier and safer. The Reversing Assistant can also assist to reverse out from a parking spot or tight spaces by taking over the steering.
Colour offerings for this new variant include Phytonic Blue, Black Sapphire, Mineral White and Artic Grey. They are complemented with interior upholstery of Leather ‘Vernasca’ design perforations in black and a fine-wood trim ‘Fineline Stripe’ with brown high-gloss.
The X5 xDrive45e M Sport with additional M Performance Genuine Parts and Accessories
As an added option, the exterior appearance can be enhanced with BMW M Performance Genuine Parts and Accessories. The items available include a front air inlet, exterior mirror cap, front and rear winglets, and rear diffuser in carbonfibre. Side decals and side skirt films in Frozen Black are also available, as well as wheels in Star Spoke Jet Black Matte.
Buying the new X5
With the Balloon Financing Plan from BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia, the X5 xDrive45e M Sport can be owned with a monthly instalment plan starting from RM5,028.00 (based on estimates of an 80% loan on a 5-year tenure).
Every X5 owner will receive the complete BMW Group Malaysia Premium Ownership experience which includes a 5-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Scheduled Service Programme, 8-Year/160,000-km Battery Warranty (whichever comes first), 2-Year/24 Month Tyre Warranty Programme (for Run Flat Tyres), BMW Roadside Assistance and Accident Support, BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile App – BMW White Card, and BMW Service Online.
The X5 xDrive45e M Sport will be in showrooms of all authorised BMW dealerships nationwide from June 20, 2020. Alternatively, from the comfort of the home, interested customers can visit BMW Shop Online for information and to make a booking.
Note: Prices shown are for private registration, excluding insurance premiums. CKD models have full Sales Tax exemption of 10%, CBU models have partial Sales Tax exemption of 5%.
With the debut of the new Lexus IS sports sedan, the premium brand is introducing the ‘Lexus Driving Signature’ that will become the development standard for all future Lexus models. The company explains that the ‘Lexus Driving Signature’ is defined by linear vehicle operation that is faithful to a driver’s intentions, providing seamless transition from braking to steering and acceleration through a corner.
These Lexus dynamic values were achieved by utilising the country road test course at the company’s new technical centre in Shimoyama, Japan, which opened in 2019. The new test course is based on many years of Lexus experience of driving on the Nurburgring Nordschleife, famous for its gruelling driving conditions.
The new test course has been designed to take advantage of the local topography, featuring a change in elevation of about 75 metres, a wide range of curves and a variety of road surfaces. By repeatedly subjecting both vehicle and engineers to daily tests in this severe driving environment, Lexus was able to devise an ever-higher dimension of vehicle performance – with the new IS being the first product to be ‘born’ at the Shimoyama facility.
Part of Toyota’s new test course at Shimoyama in Japan.
Reimagined sports sedan concept
The new IS reimagines the sports sedan concept with a low and wide stance, the sleek proportions of a four-door coupe, slimmer headlights and a lower, sharper side character line that combine to express a centre of gravity closer to the ground. This is further emphasised by single-blade rear combination lights sporting an ‘L’ motif and a sharper overall contour created by the character line around the bootlid.
According to Lexus International Chief Designer Kenichi Hirai, the aim for the new IS was to achieve an aggressive design that evokes a sense of driving. “To achieve a high degree of design, Lexus members in product planning, production technology, engineering, and styling combined their various insights and united behind development from an early stage,” he said.
The elaborate and dimensional forms unique to Lexus are made possible by the use of drawing die construction, the latest in high-precision stamping technology that adds a mechanism that slides in tandem with the movement of the stamping press.
Body rigidity is enhanced by reinforcing radiator side supports, increasing the number of front-side-member weld points and optimising structures from the rear-quarter pillars to the sides of the roof, among other areas.
Focus on driving dynamics
Developing the sports sedan, the focus of the engineers’ attention was on driving dynamics and they sought to improve elements such as responsiveness to driver input and the suppression of unnecessary movement in sprung mass. New swing-valve shock absorbers have been employed and are equipped with ultra-low-velocity valves that respond to even minor road irregularities, generating the most appropriate damping force.
The availability of new-design 19-inch tyres improves cornering performance. Hub bolts are used to fasten the wheels, resulting in tight handling and braking due to increased fastening strength and reduced mass. With optional 18-inch wheels (comparative to the previous IS F Sport), the car rides on a 45mm-wider front track and 50mm-wider rear track.
Three powertrains
Besides the IS 300h hybrid powertrain, there is also an advanced 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine available for the IS 300. This now features enhanced adaptive control for the 8-speed automatic transmission. An 8-speed automatic transmission also continues to be available in the 3.5-litre normally aspirated V6-powered IS 350 (powertrain shown below).
New interior themes
Within the new IS are key firsts which include a new form of Lexus decorative expression for part of the door trim. This features a graphic pattern of embossed intersecting lines, new accents in surface treatments and decorative ornamentation.
A 10.3-inch display screen features newly forward-mounted positioning, touch-display functionality and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility for the first time in the model.
Lexus Safety System+ evolved
The Lexus Safety System+ suite has also been upgraded with newly added functions to create a safer on-road experience, including the addition or enhancement of Lane Trace Assist which has improved lane recognition performance that aids stability and comfort by automatically reducing vehicle speed to ensure constant g-forces while driving through curves.
The Pre-Collision Safety System has also been expanded to include intersection detection where, during right turns, the system responds to vehicles and to pedestrians crossing the street from the direction toward which the vehicle was travelling before it started to turn.
Ever since the debut of its first generation in 1999, the IS has pursued the fun of driving unique to compact rear-wheel-drive sports sedans. Approximately 1.09 million units of the sports sedan have been delivered over a span of more than 20 years.
To know more about Lexus models available in Malaysia, visit www.lexus.com.my.
