Volvo’s flagship range in Malaysia has gained an additional variant – the XC90 B5 Inscription Plus, a mild hybrid under the B badge line. The B badge is used to signify the presence of a mild hybrid powertrain which is expected to help the carmaker move closer to its goal of having all its models electrified by the middle of the next decade.
The new 7-seater SUV variant, which joins the XC90 Recharge T8 Inscription Plus, has an integrated electrified powertrain (similar to the one in the latest XC60). This combines an advanced kinetic energy recovery braking system with the petrol engine to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
The 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine is coupled to an 8-speed Geartronic automatic transmission. Together with an electric motor, it produces up to 249 ps/350 Nm which goes to all the wheels.
Standard equipment includes a Bowers & Wilkins Premium Sound audio system, while for active safety, there is a 360° surround view camera and IntelliSafe systems such as City Safety with Autobrake, Lane Keeping Aid, and Cross Traffic Alert.
Excluding insurance and sales tax, the XC90 B5 Inscription Plus is priced from RM386,842.12. Customers can choose from 4 exterior colours (Crystal White, Onyx Black, Denim Blue and Pebble Grey) and enjoy a full 5-year warranty as there is no limit on mileage after registration.
For the 2022 Formula 1 World Championship, Ferrari will enter the F1-75, it’s 68th F1 car which has been unveiled on the 75th anniversary of the Italian company’s founding. To mark this anniversary is a celebratory logo and the Italian flag, which has been a long-time feature on Ferrari’s F1 cars.
Finished in a brand new shade of red, its appearance was developed by the Ferrari Style Centre. Like other F1 cars for this new season, the F1-75 has a completely new look as a result of the significantly new technical regulations being introduced this year.
The design phase was tackled with an innovative, unconventional approach. Among the elements that stand out are the lower nose, and the bodywork where particular attention has been paid to the packaging of the Power Unit and its ancillary parts in order to achieve the best possible aerodynamic performance. This year also marks the return of ground effect after a 40-year absence, while the Pirelli tyres have increased in size to 18 inches (also a regulation change).
The team has the same pairing of drivers – Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz Jr – with Antonio Giovinazzi and Mick Schumacher as reserve drivers.
“Our race team is gearing up for the longest season ever and possibly for one of the most surprising seasons of the last decade. Different regulations, different cars, 23 races. It’s going to be an incredible challenge for all of us. Last year, we had a good scrap for third place in the Constructors’ Championship and, as a team, we made significant progress. The coming season might hold some surprises….,” said Laurent Mekies, Racing Director – Head of Track Area.
“At the first race in Bahrain, there could be very little difference in performance terms between the teams, but then over the course of the year, we could see some teams and drivers make great progress. We will definitely have to manage our energy well, in order to stay fully focussed all year long. We can count on our fantastic team spirit and our desire to test ourselves against the strongest opponents. In our favour, we have the incredible talent and dedication of Charles and Carlos, who have worked hard all winter with the engineers to develop the car in the right direction,” he said.
Commenting on the technical changes in the car, Enrico Cardile – Head of Chassis Area, agreed that the rule changes in 2022 are undoubtedly the most radical of the last 40 years. “We approached it with an open mind and seized the opportunity of the rule changes to go in many different directions, bucking the trends of recent years. This open-mindedness has extended to the development of the suspension: the new rules have imposed a general rethink, with the aim of giving us the flexibility to manage a brand-new car concept and tyres with different properties to those used up until now. In short, so many variables came into play, making it a challenging and exciting exercise. Aerodynamics was definitely our number one priority,” he said.
After a difficult year in 2021, Honda Malaysia will make a big push in 2022 with a target of 80,000 units, a 50% increase over the volume last year. This is based on the forecast of 600,000 units which the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) announced last month and would give the brand a 13.3% market share (10.4% in 2021).
The target has been set taking into consideration the global microchip shortage that is causing disruptions in vehicle assembly. However, the company also expects the introduction of two new models during the year to help boost the numbers.
The 5th generation City accounted for 36% of total Honda sales last year.
The company has maintained its No.1 position in Non-National Passenger Vehicle Segment for 8 consecutive years since 2014. The Central region was the largest contributor to the total sales in 2021 with more than 25,000 units sold, followed by Southern region and Northern region with more than 9,800 and 9,100 units, respectively. Model-wise, the City, HR-V and CR-V were the best-selling models, contributing 36%, 21% and 14%, respectively to the total volume.
“We started 2022 on the back of the strong momentum gained from the launch of the All-New City Hatchback in December 2021. This model raised the benchmark in B-hatchback segment, offering advanced technology, namely e:HEV, Honda SENSING and Honda CONNECT. This excellent start to the year continued with the launch of the All-New Civic last month. We set a new benchmark for the C-segment by offering VTEC Turbocharged and Honda SENSING as standard features for all variants. The model’s exceptional interior and exterior further complemented the All-New Civic’s overall package, making it stand apart in the C-segment,” said Madoka Chujo, Honda Malaysia’s Managing Director & CEO, at a media event this evening.
Honda e:HEV powertrain in the latest City RS. It can run on the petrol engine and/or electric motor, enhancing performance while saving fuel and reducing exhaust emissions.
Having introduced Honda’s e:HEV hybrid technology with the new City, Honda Malaysia plans to further popularise this technology among Malaysians. It is available with the new City Hatchback as well and as hinted by Ms Chujo during the new Civic launch, there is also a possibility that we might see an e:HEV version of the model (it is available in Europe). One strategy that Honda Malaysia will be using will be to make such hybrid models more affordable.
In addition to the new model launches (likely to be the new BR-V and HR-V which have already been launched in neighbouring countries), Honda Malaysia will introduce the Honda Certified Used Car business, a new business activity that will provide another option for customers to become Honda owners.
Honda Malaysia won’t say what the two new models are but we’re pretty certain they will be the new BR-V (above) and new HR-V (below), both of which are on sale in neighbouring countries.
While the company’s network of authorised dealerships nationwide already offer sales and aftersales services of a high standard, the company will continue to enhance the after-sales services experience by expanding its mobile service. This additional option for servicing the vehicle is expected to add convenience and satisfaction for Honda owners. They can make an appointment via the HondaTouch application and Honda Malaysia mobile teams will come to their home or any location they provide to service their vehicle.
To locate a showroom to view or test-drive Honda vehicles in Malaysia, visit www.honda.com.my.
Data sources: Monthly reports of Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA)
While 2021 ended on a high note with the highest Total Industry Volume (TIV) of the year, the new year started with a significant drop in new vehicle deliveries due to low stocks as a result of the plants being unable to complete vehicles. This was due to the floods in certain parts of the Klang Valley which has a large concentration of parts suppliers whose factories were flooded, causing supply chain disruptions.
The TIV for January 2022 was 40,581 units, 38% lower than the volume of new vehicles delivered during December 2021 (65,184 units). It was, however, 22% higher than the TIV for January 2021.
Year-end promotions and the ongoing sales tax exemption also saw many buyers taking their vehicles in December, so the spill-over to January was lower than usual.
The companies were also unable to register new electric vehicles for their customers due to a problem at the JPJ which prevented the registration process from being completed as roadtax does not need to be paid from January 1. Presumably, the people who developed the system never expected that one day, the government would exempt certain vehicles from roadtax so no provision was made.
It is only recently that the Transport Minister finally announced that the matter was resolved and EVs can now be registered. The exemption is given until the end of 2025 and applies only to fully electric vehicles (including fuel cell electric vehicles), not hybrids.
As per the announcement during the Budget 2022 presentation last year, all EVs will be exempted from import and excise taxes for BEVs this year and in 2023, and those which are assembled in Malaysia will continue to have this full exemption until 2025.
The MAA expects the February TIV to be at the January level as it is a short working month due to the Chinese New Year holidays, besides having only 28 days.
Assemblers also expect to be able to complete only limited numbers of vehicles due to some suppliers still recovering from the floods, as well as the global shortage of microchips. All it takes is just one part not to be available and the vehicle cannot be completed and therefore cannot leave the plant.
Vaccination does not make you immune to COVID-19 infection. You can still get infected and although you may not show symptoms, you could still spread the coronavirus to others. Do not stop taking protective measures such as wearing a facemask, washing hands frequently and social distancing.
Since 2019, the Mercedes-EQ family of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) has been growing steadily and by the end of this year, it will probably meet its original target of 10 models by the end of 2022. Over at Mercedes-AMG, a similar push is being made in electrification and so far, one model has been introduced – the EQS sedan last September. Now comes a pair of new sedans – the EQE 43 4MATIC and EQE 53 4MATIC+ – which are the high-performance versions of the EQE.
The new sedans also sit on the same EVA2 platform although the company is now developing its own platform for BEVs which will be used towards the end of the decade. In the meantime, it will adapt the Mercedes-EQ models in the usual AMG way in the areas of drive, suspension, brakes, sound, exterior and interior design, and equipment.
Dual-motor powertrains
Both the new Mercedes-AMG models have dual electric motors, one on each of the axles to provide fully variable all-wheel drive. The AMG-tuned motors are characterised by an optimal balance of power increase, efficiency and noise comfort.
For higher performance, the motors of the EQE 53 4MATIC+ have adapted windings and laminations, higher currents and a specific inverter. This enables higher engine speeds and greater power generation during acceleration and at top speed. The electric motor on the rear axle is particularly powerful with its 6-phase design, based on two windings with three phases each.
Electric motors generate a lot of heat too so cooling is just as important as with a combustion engine. The AMG engineers have developed a highly resilient thermal concept which allows repeated acceleration manoeuvres with consistently high performance. The sophisticated design has a ‘water lance’ in the shaft of the rotor to cools it.
Other AMG-developed elements in the cooling circuit include special ribs on the stator and the needle-shaped pin-fin structure on the inverter, which is made of high-performance ceramics. In addition, there is the transmission oil heat exchanger where the oil is pre-heated during cold starts to increase efficiency.
Up to 687 ps/1000 Nm
Power outputs vary from 350 kW (476 ps) in the EQE 43 4MATIC to 505 kW (687 ps) in the EQE 53 4MATIC+. Maximum torque ranges from 858 to 1000 Nm. AMG DYNAMIC SELECT, besides changing the handling and ride characteristics, also varies power outputs between 50% and 100%. Actually, the 505 kW output for the EQE 53 4MATIC+ is 110% of the rated output and is available only when using the RACE START with boost function (in the AMG DYNAMIC PLUS Package).
The maximum drive power can be called up in the Sport+ drive program, or in all drive programs via kick-down. In the other drive programs (except Sport+), the maximum power is adjusted to increase efficiency and reduce consumption.
New-generation battery
The new Mercedes-AMG models are equipped with a powerful 328V high-performance drive battery pack manufactured using the latest lithium-ion technology. It has a usable energy content of 90.6 kWh and the battery management system in the EQE 53 is tuned specifically for AMG. Updates for the battery management system can be installed over-the-air for continuous improvements over the life cycle.
Another advantage of the new battery generation is the short charging times. The energy storage system can charge with up to 170 kW at fast charging stations with direct current. In this case, electricity for 180 kms (WLTP) can be recharged in 15 minutes, it is claimed.
The AMG sound
One area which enthusiast drivers feel will disappear will be the emotive sounds from combustion engines, which is an important part of the AMG driving experience. Well, this will still be available from AMG BEVs although it will be artificially created. A sound system creates a unique sound with the help of special speakers, a bass actuator and a sound generator. Known as the AMG SOUND EXPERIENCE, the tonality and intensity of the sounds generated are tuned to the driving character or the driver’s wishes, both inside and out. There are ‘Authentic’ and ‘Performance’ programs with three variations each.
In other respects, the two sedans have AMG-specific equipment that provides sportier differentiation from the Mercedes-EQ EQE. The black panel grille is flanked by DIGITAL LIGHT headlamps that feature a specific AMG projection when opening and closing the vehicle. In addition, there are air diffusers on the left and right in high-gloss black for the AIR CURTAIN effect. Various other aerodynamic measures improve the driving dynamics and efficiency, reducing rear lift without significantly changing drag.
Likewise, the interior has the typical AMG features that give a sporty ambience. These include AMG seats with individual graphics and special seat covers in ARTICO man-made leather with MICROCUT microfibre and red decorative topstitching. AMG’s own Performance steering wheel has a twin-spoke design with a flattened bottom. Buttons and switches on the steering wheel can also operate the optional Hyperscreen which has more than 15 information and setting options.
MBUX (the intelligent Mercedes-Benz infotainment system) offers a range of additional AMG functions that emphasise the performance character. This is particularly true of the distinctive displays in the instrument cluster, as well as the multimedia display and the Head-Up Display.
As far back as July last year, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) had already confirmed that the new Golf 8 would be coming to Malaysia. That was good news but the restrictions of the COVID-19 pandemic and then the global microchip shortages must have delayed the plans although what had not been mentioned also was that the new 8th generation model would be assembled in Malaysia. That too would have added a bit more time as all previous generations came from Germany completely built-up (CBU) and ready for delivery.
And it’s not just the Golf model being assembled here again but it is the GTI – the original hot hatch – which is something special because there are only two other places in the world where it is made: Germany and China. Malaysia’s market size being tiny compared to China makes it a significant development although having started assembly of MQB platform models (the first being the Tiguan) has made this easier.
The last time the Golf was assembled in Malaysia was in the mid-1970s when the Mark 1 was introduced as the successor to the Beetle. However, due to changes of distributor and also Volkswagen’s strategy for the region, successive models were not assembled and while Auto Dunia (the distributor from 1984 through to the end of the 1990s) did sell some Golfs, most were imported by independent dealers who focussed on the GTI version that was the most popular.
It was only when Volkswagen Malaysia was established in the mid-2000s that a serious effort was made to market Volkswagens in the country. Of the different models imported, the GTI was the bestseller, accounting for 50% of sales at one stage. Since then, every generation of the GTI has occupied a strong position in the range sold in Malaysia and now, with the 8th generation, local assembly means it can sell in bigger numbers as the incentives that the government offers help offset the production costs to bring the price down to RM211,689 (without insurance and sales tax).
Coming soon: the new Golf R-Line with a 1.4-litre TSI engine, to be priced between RM155,000 and RM165,000.With 320 ps/400 Nm, this is the most powerful Golf R to be produced. Imported CBU, it is priced at RM356,412 and the limited number of units available are almost sold out.
The GTI isn’t the only version that is being assembled locally as there is also the lower-priced Golf R-Line which will be priced within the range of RM155,000 to RM165,000, but will only go on sale a bit later (although you can book one now). The price is certainly lower than the last listed price for the CBU Golf R-Line of the 7th generation (well, 7.5 to be more correct).
This is not to be mistaken for the very powerful Golf R which is also available in limited numbers as a CBU import, priced from RM356,412 (without insurance). That’s a lot more money than the GTI but according to the VPCM people, they are almost running out of stocks of the Golf R.
With a model as iconic and legendary as the Golf, especially the GTI, the designers have to be very careful how they shape it. While having to modernise in keeping with the latest trends, there is also a need to retain the heritage so the Mark 8 has evolutionary change from its predecessor and incorporates the signature elements like the honeycomb front grille and red pinstripe trim. But because it has the same basic form as the other versions, it is a ‘wolf in sheep’s clothing’.
The standard LED headlights are positioned low down and dominate the striking front end in conjunction with the radiator grille. A narrow edge below the bonnet, red in colour, reaches across the entire front. This creates the new face which is also in line with the current new models of the brand.
18-inch Richmond alloy wheels (with 225/40 tyres) with red brake calipers are at each corner while at the rear end, LED tail light units provide a distinct visual signature. There is, of course, the mandatory spoiler on the edge of the roof and under the bumper, individual tailpipes on either side.
Like an increasing number of new models today, the brand or model name is larger on the rear panel and in this case, the ‘GTI’ letters below the VW logo can be spotted from some distance (for the R-Line, ‘GOLF’ is used).
The original hot hatch – the first Golf GTI launched in 1975.
Under the bonnet is a familiar power unit, the EA888, which is a 2-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged engine with direct-injection. With the latest version of the engine, output has improved to 245 ps/370 Nm (15 ps/20 Nm more than the previous GTI 7.5). That’s more than double the power and torque of the original 1.6-litre engine in the Mark 1 which was 110 ps/137 Nm. The proven 7-speed wet-clutch DSG continues to be used to deliver power to the front wheels.
Further along the driveline, there’s an XDS+ Electronic Differential Lock that was initially developed for the Golf GTI (an earlier generation) which enhances handling to be more precise and more neutral. It is an extension of the electronic differential lock (EDS) integrated in the ESP system. It uses the ESP hydraulic system to apply braking forces to the relevant wheel to achieve optimum traction. Thus, the XDS acts like a limited-slip differential to compensate for the understeer typical of FWD cars during fast cornering.
The Golf GTI also comes with a new Vehicle Dynamics Manager (VDM) with Dynamic Chassis Control that has up to 15 settings. The driver can choose pre-set modes for economy or sporty driving, or even customise specific aspects such as the steering, drivetrain and even engine sound. Using a new software application, the VDM intelligently manages the electromechanical running gear systems to provide the driver with an even higher level of control than before.
While the suspension layout is similar to the previous generation’s, there has been some reconfiguration of the front struts and the front axle spring rate is said to be 5% higher than before. The use of a new aluminium subframe also takes away a bit over 3 kgs while maximising rigidity. For the multi-link rear axle, the engineers designed a new wheel mount and increased the spring rate by 15% while also upgrading the damping characteristics.
‘Digital’ and ‘connected’ are the two words that are dominant in the description of the new Golf. The clearest demonstration of this is the new Digital Cockpit, which is part of what Volkswagen calls the Driver’s Workspace. Though looking traditional at a glance, the dashboard is actually revolutionary and presents information in a clearer, neater way. Virtually all of the displays and controls are digital with two display screens – a 10.25-inch TFT panel for the meters and a 10-inch touchscreen for infotainment. Because the instrument panel is digital and graphic, the display can be personalised with different colour themes and views, including a GTI-specific skin.
The 10-inch panel towards the middle of the dashboard displays 3D navigation and has connectivity options that include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to put smartphone apps on the screen and use them. Intuitive operation in the Golf GTI can also be supported by new, natural voice control on request. The system is simply activated by saying ‘Hello Volkswagen’ or pressing the voice button on the steering wheel. The Golf reacts to intuitive voice commands such as ‘Play some music’ or ‘I’m too cold’, activating or adjusting systems as necessary.
The sporty leather-wrapped steering wheel also deserves highlighting with its multifunction haptic controls. This is new technology so for some (maybe computer gamers will be familiar with it), it may need getting used to. Your fingers don’t need to be ultra sensitive as the feedback is strong enough that you will eventually get used to it.
Ambient lighting around the cabin is the in-thing these days as it can create a more pleasant ambience for greater motoring pleasure. Volkswagen’s interior designers have installed accents of indirect lighting in various places and there are 30 colour choices to personalise from, or you can just pick one of the 5 preset themes (Infinity, Eternity, Desire, Euphoria, Vitality).
The sports front seats are upholstered in Vienna leather and for the feet, there are brushed stainless steel pedals. 3-zone climate control provides more personalised comfort to each front occupant as well as the rear occupants, while 4 USB ports (two of which are USB-C type) allow almost everyone to be able to recharge their devices while on the move.
Given the high performance of the Golf GTI, it would be expected that the levels of occupant protection would also be very high. Apart from the very rigid structure, the occupants are also protected by 6 airbags on the front and sides of the cabin. Active safety systems help the driver to maintain control or stabilise the car and if there is a major collision, the Automatic Post-Collision Braking System activates to prevent the car from ‘bouncing’ about and crashing again.
Like other locally-assembled Volkswagen models, the new Golf GTI comes with a 5-year/unlimited mileage warranty and free scheduled maintenance for the first 3 years, plus complimentary roadside assistance for the first 5 years.
To locate a showroom in Malaysia to view and test-drive the new Golf GTI, visit www.volkswagen.com.my.
