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Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Achieves Record Sales In 2017

2017 was the fourth consecutive record year for Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM), achieving an all-time high sales record of 12,045 vehicles sold in 2017. This translates into an overall 2.3 per cent growth compared to 2016. The three-pointed star is well ahead of the pack in the premium segment, maintaining a 2.3 per cent market share*.

“Mercedes-Benz Malaysia enjoyed a remarkable year in 2017 as a result of our customer centric strategy. We’re very proud of our achievements in 2017. It is the result of great teamwork from everyone in the Mercedes-Benz Malaysia team including our dealer partners. We understand our customers’ requirements and target to fulfill their expectations. To deliver the Best Products, we launched 17 new models…” (cont’d)

“To offer the Best Customer Experience, we launched nine new and upgraded dealerships, including a brand new dealer group, Auto Commerz Sdn Bhd. As a result, we successfully achieved a record-breaking year, our best ever performance in the history of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia. Moving into 2018, we are confident of the growth potential in the Malaysian automotive market and will continue to invest substantially in developing key areas including talent, technology, production and service. This is the strategy behind maintaining our position as the No. 1 premium brand in Malaysia,” said Mercedes-Benz Malaysia President and CEO, Dr Claus Weidner (above, second from right).

“We are delighted to have delivered a record-breaking 12,045 Mercedes-Benz Cars to customers in Malaysia and by this confirming our position as the leading premium brand. Our locally produced vehicles, especially the new E-Class and the GLC have been our growth drivers. We are thankful that our customers have put their confidence in our premium products. With our innovative mobility solutions, digitalisation initiatives as well as upcoming product highlights, we are confident of continuing on this success path,” said Mercedes-Benz Malaysia, Sales & Marketing, Vice President, Mark Raine (above).

For FY2017, MBM’s sales was driven by the locally produced limousines which recorded 7,041 units sold. This was followed closely by the Mercedes-Benz SUVs with 2,599 units sold, spurred by the introduction of the locally produced Mercedes-Benz GLC 200 and GLC 250. Growth within this segment is expected to continue. The Mercedes-Benz compact cars recorded a total of 2,031 units sold, while the aspirational Mercedes-Benz Dream Cars, also known as the brand shapers, recorded a total of 374 units sold.

MBM marked the the year by launching six new 43 series models namely, the Mercedes-Benz E 43 4MATIC (above), SLC 43, C 43 4MATIC (below), C 43 4MATIC Coupe, GLC 43 4MATIC, GLC 43 4MATIC Coupe and later, the AMG GT R.
Complementing its line-up of Best Products, MBM invested in initiatives that demonstrated its signature Best Customer Experience by organising various customer engagement activities focusing on the different interests of its target audience. These included the Ultra Singapore 2017, Urban Hunting movement, and Hungry for Adventure in East Malaysia.

In addition, MBM also launched a Mercedes-Benz branded charging station in Bangsar Shopping Centre (BSC) and hosted the Mike Horn X Hungry for Adventure event, featuring the greatest explorer of all time who is currently on a two-year journey – Pole2Pole mission.

Moving even closer to its fans and customers, MBM continued to innovate exciting platforms to enhance customer touch points in 2017. These included mobile roadshows, the Mercedes-Benz Gallery, Customer Care Centre, and Test Drive Booking System. MBM also introduced experiencing cars in Virtual Reality, Digital Signage, Product Experts, Online Service Booking, Mercedes-Benz Financial Calculator and also a one-stop integrated state-of-the-art web platform which facilitates the needs of both new and existing customers known as OneWeb.

In regards to its dealer network, MBM introduced SalesTouch, a mobile sales tool which enables product experts and sales consultants to provide customers with real time information. The feature complements its existing features which are the Service Differentiation and Product Experts.

Always in touch with customers’ needs, MBM launched a new campaign in late 2017 in partnership with its sister company, Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia (MBSM). The campaign, in anticipation for the Chinese New Year celebration in 2018, offers personalised and flexible financing packages to give Mercedes-Benz fans total peace of mind to finance their dream Mercedes-Benz cars based on their respective financing commitments.

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has 33 dedicated dealerships nationwide delivering the Best Products and Best Customer Service throughout the entire customer journey. To date, Mercedes-Benz has the largest premium dealer network in the country.

In FY2017, Mercedes-Benz achieved a total investment of over RM 1 billion in the Malaysian market. One-third of this investment was made in its Pekan Production Plant and MBM Training Academy in Puchong, Selangor. This strategy demonstrates the leading premium German marque’s commitment in supporting the nation’s ambition of becoming an EEV hub.

*As of YTD November 2017
NB: The numbers for 2017 are unaudited and subject to change.

“MYPerodua Nation 2018” Begins This Weekend

The nation’s favourite Perodua carnival is back to usher in the New Year, with additional deals on top of its on-going Happy New Ride campaign that offers RM2,000 off the Bezza Standard G and Alza, and RM1,500 off the Bezza Advance and Axia.

Following last year’s successful event in Shah Alam, the MYPerodua Nation carnival is going up north this weekend to Amanjaya Mall in Sungai Petani between 13 and 14 January, from 10 am to 10 pm.

“The MYPerodua Nation promises something for everyone. Experience the amazing journey with us as the nation’s number one carmaker and take advantage of our attractive promotions at the carnival,” Perodua Sales Sdn Bhd Managing Director Dato’ Dr Zahari Husin said.

Visitors can get up to 50% off selected parts, GearUp accessories and merchandise at the MYPerodua Nation carnival, and take advantage of Happy Hours on both days where even more attractive parts packages can be had.

MYPerodua Nation will also feature a special Compact Nation exhibition that tells the story of Perodua’s 25-year journey towards becoming the most preferred compact car maker in Malaysia.

“MYPerodua Nation is an annual event that represents one of our efforts to reach out and get closer to Malaysians. Last year we held this carnival in Shah Alam, and now we’re taking it nationwide, beginning with the northern region this year,” said Dato’ Dr Zahari Husin.

Visitors are invited to experience how the All-New Perodua Myvi’s Advanced Safety Assist (ASA) works through the demonstration, and enjoy performances by Aiman Tino, Aizat Amdan, Projector Band, Hazama, Siti Nordiana and even BoBoiBoy.

A lucky draw could see you walk away with a smartphone worth over RM3,000, and mini games, contests, food trucks and even an outdoor cinema promise a fun-filled two days for you and your family.

“With irresistible deals, games, giveaways and celebrity appearances at the MYPerodua Nation carnival, it’s a great way to start your 2018. We hope to see you there!” said Dato’ Dr Zahari Husin.

For more information on the MYPerodua Nation event, please visit www.perodua.com.my.

All-New Land Rover Discovery Debuts In Malaysia [+Video]

Jaguar Land Rover (Malaysia) has just rolled-out the new Discovery to the Malaysian market. The fifth-generation model benefits from Land Rover’s strong, safe and light full-size SUV architecture, delivering comfort and adaptability like no other.

The new Discovery redefines the large SUV, which has been revolutionised to create a highly desirable, extremely versatile and hugely capable premium SUV. It also embodies Land Rover’s drive to go Above and Beyond, combining British desirability with an unstoppable spirit of adventure.

This three-row, seven-seat SUV that measures 4,970mm long, 2,220mm wide (mirrors out) and 1,846mm tall, is the ultimate family and active lifestyle companion. The Discovery’s trademark stadium seating is accommodated by its distinctive stepped roof that ensures all passengers enjoy excellent forward visibility and unrivalled long-haul comfort.

The new Discovery also offers the driver, driving confidence due to the raised Command Driving Position, simple controls and enhanced chassis technology. Apart from that, it is also equipped with InControl Touch Pro, which provides greater connectivity than ever before including access to a range of apps, satellite navigation as well as vehicle controls through the updated 10-inch high-resolution touchscreen display.

The Powered Inner Tailgate is another great innovation that is offered with the new Discovery. This neat innovation incorporates an additional fold-down section that deploys when the tailgate is opened. A button inside the load area can then be used to lower the Powered Inner Tailgate section. The deployed 285mm long tailgate serves as impromptu event seating and is able to support a maximum load of 300kg, making it the perfect place to enjoy a tailgate picnic or to change out of muddy boots – all under the shelter of the tailgate.

Powered by a 258PS 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine, badged Td6, the single-turbo engine features low-pressure exhaust recirculation, a two-stage oil pump and revised fuel-injector nozzle for improved responses, refinement and efficiency. The 258PS engine delivers stronger performance than before and the benchmark 0-100km/h sprint takes only 8.1 seconds – a reduction of 1.3 seconds. With a significant 600Nm of torque on offer, the new Td6 diesel delivers relaxed cruising refinement and towering all-terrain capability. Speaking of terrain, check out this short video of the Disco in action:

More on the new Land Rover Discovery…

Coupled with the Td6 diesel engine is the ZF eight-speed automatic gearbox, which has been engineered by the powertrain experts at Land Rover to combine smooth shifts with sharp responses and optimized fuel efficiency. The gearbox is controlled using the rotary gearshift controller that rises from the center console, while manual changes can be prompted with the use of the steering wheel-mounted shift paddles for dynamic driving and precise control when completing off-road maneuvers.

For the ultimate all-terrain capability, the new Discovery is offered a two-speed transfer box, providing selectable high and low range gears for optimum on-road and off-road performance. The intelligent system provides a standard 50/50 torque split between front and rear wheels, while the two-speed fully synchronised ‘shift on the move’ system allows the driver to swap between high and low ratios without having to stop the vehicle, at speeds of up to 60km/h.

In addition, an available four-corner air suspension system in the new Discovery that improves ride quality when driving on-road also provides greater capability when off-roading.

In terms of design, the new design of the Discovery features optimised proportions, combined with beautiful detailing as well as enhanced precision to create a highly capable and versatile SUV with a more dynamic design than before. At the front, the new Discovery’s sculpted surfaces, jewel-like headlamps and a faster windscreen angle break the Discovery tradition and the state-of-the-art daytime running lamps deliver a modern appearance with a distinctive new light signature. At the back, the LED rear lamps have a horizontal emphasis, giving New Discovery a more sporty appearance, while the new one-piece tailgate delivers a more dynamic rear design.

“The new Discovery builds upon the practicality and versatility of its predecessor, offering the same supreme breadth of capability that only a Land Rover can. Pioneering technologies, lightweight aluminium architectures and advanced powertrains ensure that the new Discovery appeals to consumers of multiple levels,” said Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia Sdn Bhd Managing Director Datuk Aishah Ahmad.

Land Rover’s innovative aluminium full-sized SUV platform provides the perfect basis for the new Discovery, delivering a lightweight but durable architecture that contributes to lower CO₂ emissions and improved fuel economy, as well as enhancing its dynamic abilities. This lightweight monocoque body construction is made up of 85% aluminium – 43% recycled – and is a significant 480kg lighter than before.

The Activity Key, which is offered as an optional accessory is another ‘first’ in the large SUV segment that allows owners to lock and unlock the vehicle without the need to carry a conventional key fob. It is designed as a durable wristband to be worn during outdoor activities.

Priced at RM729,800* the new Discovery comes with 5 years warranty and free service as well as 3 years of complimentary roadside assist. The first 5 customers to purchase the new Discovery will be given a RM5,000 accessory voucher. Genuine Land Rover accessories are also covered by a 12-month warranty. Accessories fitted within one month or 1,600km (whichever comes first) of the handover of the new Discovery will be covered by the vehicle warranty.

In conjunction with the official launch of the new Discovery, Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia will be organizing a ‘Discovery Day’ on January 13 and 14, 2018 at Sime Darby Auto Connexion Petaling Jaya and SISMA Auto Glenmarie and also at SISMA Auto Penang on January 20 and 21, 2018. This exclusive event is by invitation only. Interested customers can call the respective showrooms to register their interest.

For more information on the newly launched Discovery, kindly visit www.landrover.com.my or Land Rover Showrooms – Sime Darby Auto Connexion Petaling Jaya (03-7946 3800), SISMA Auto Glenmarie (03-5569 3311) and SISMA Auto Penang (04-226 2279).

*Price is inclusive of 6% GST, excludes road tax, registration and insurance.

2018 Lexus LS Now Open For Booking [+Video]

Lexus Malaysia, a division of UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd, has announced that all authorised Lexus Centres across Malaysia are now accepting orders for its newest flagship luxury sedan, the 2018 LS.

The fifth generation LS reinvents the brand’s take on luxury after a decade, and is said to be a significant step up from its predecessor in terms of platform and powertrain as well as styling and craftsmanship.

Debuting last year at the 2017 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, the 2018 LS features Lexus’ first-ever twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine that delivers 415hp coupled with a 10-speed (yes, ten speeds) automatic transmission and an intuitive, predictive steering system – promising pure power, precise handling and excellent efficiency.

The new LS also boasts a finesse design language that pays tribute to the brand’s intricate Japanese craftsmanship. From the outside, Lexus’ new sedan sports a “new silhouette”, which has the appearance and appeal of a four-door coupe but maintains the roominess of a traditional 3 Box design. Its interior is meticulously crafted to feature Kiriko cut glass and a hand pleated door trim – both of which transform according to lighting conditions, creating a one of a kind space that epitomises luxury and elegance.

As far as safety is concerned, the luxury sedan is equipped with the Lexus Safety System – featuring the Pre-Collision System that helps to warn the driver on the possibility of a collision so they may perform an invasive manoeuvre; and the advanced Lane Departure Alert that is capable of detecting boundaries through improved recognition capability to offer continued performance on roads. Here’s a short video on the 2018 Lexus LS:

Proudly designed and manufactured at the brand’s Tahara plant, the 2018 Lexus LS is already a big hit in Japan with pre-orders for the new flagship sedan reaching 9,500 units, or nearly 1,600% higher than the sales goal of 600 units a month.

Closer to home, there has been much talk and anticipation on the luxury sedan with growing interests from Lexus fans, especially among chauffeur-driven top executives – a key market of the 2018 Lexus LS. While the 2018 Lexus LS is scheduled to arrive on Malaysian shores in the first quarter of 2018, customers who wish to be among the first to own Lexus’ newest flagship luxury sedan can now place their bookings at all Lexus Centres nationwide.

The 2018 Lexus LS comes with a comprehensive warranty of five (5) years covering unlimited mileage. Complete aftersales support is available at seven (7) locations around Malaysia where professional technicians with extensive training by Lexus are ready to serve.

The 2018 Lexus LS will be fully imported (CBU) from Japan and will be offered in three variants:

The 2018 Lexus LS	Peninsular Malaysia	Sabah	Sarawak
LS Luxury	RM799,000	RM800,166.70	RM800,166.70
LS Executive	RM999,000	RM1,000,166.70	RM1,000,166.70
LS Executive (Hybrid)	RM1,459,000	RM1,460,132.00	RM1,460,132.00

*The prices listed above are On the Road price including GST without insurance.

2018 Toyota Vios Now Available For Booking Starting @ RM74,980

UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has announced that the order-taking of the new Toyota Vios will start effective from this week onward.

UMWT has started the New Year with upgrades to its bestselling model, the Toyota Vios. It will now give customers even better value for money. The 2018 model gets cosmetic changes on the exterior as well as interior, providing a fresh appearance.

Besides design refreshment, new accessories such as Parking Sensor, Shark Fin Antenna, and Illuminated Scuff Plates have been introduced. Vios will be the first model in its segment to have a Parking Sensor and this item will be offered as standard for TRD, GX and G variants.

A new DVD-AVX entertainment system with enhanced features is also available for this Vios and it is offered with a reverse camera as standard for all variants except Vios J (MT) and J (AT).

Existing advanced items such as Panoramic View Monitor and Digital Video Recorder, etc are still offered on top of the new accessories.

As before, there are 6 variants to choose from with prices starting from RM74,980 (excluding insurance, for private registration in Peninsular Malaysia). All the variants of the Vios qualify as Energy Efficient Vehicles (EEV) under the current National Automotive Policy.

As with all the latest Toyota models sold by UMWT, the Vios comes with a 5-year warranty and unlimited mileage. If the vehicle is sold off during the first 5 years, the warranty coverage will also be available to the next owner, enhancing the value of the vehicle.

Bookings are now accepted at all Toyota showrooms nationwide. For more information, kindly visit toyota.com.my.

KIA Brand Value Increases Globally In 2017

Kia Motors has been ranked among the highest valued brands in the world once again, according to Interbrand’s 2017 ‘Best Global Brands’ report. The latest study, released recently, confirms Kia’s brand value has grown 6% in the last 12 months, to US $6.68 billion.

“Kia’s continued efforts to evolve and redefine itself are critical to the sustained growth in its brand value” commented Mike Rocha, Global Director of Brand Valuation at Interbrand. “The launch of the Stinger (top) – Kia’s new and exciting fastback sports sedan, and the opening of ‘Beat 360’ (above) – a new sensory brand experience center in Seoul, fill me with high expectations of a bright future for the company.”

For the second year running, Kia is named the world’s 69^th most valuable brand in the report, its latest valuation representing a 645% increase in the value of the Kia brand since 2007. Now the 11^th most valuable automotive brand, Kia is ranked ahead of dozens of ‘household name’ consumer brands, as well as a host of volume, premium and luxury car manufacturers.

“This welcome rise in Kia’s brand value is a clear reflection of Kia’s continuous dedication to our customers,” Charles Suh, Senior Vice President of the Corporate Marketing Division at Kia Motors said. “This result provides us with further motivation to continue our mission to become the most desirable automotive brand in the eyes of consumers.”

What is The Power to Surprise?

The sustained growth in the value of the Kia brand is the result of company-wide efforts to cultivate a more emotional attachment between the company’s products and consumers in every market.

Now a byword for quality and reliability in the automotive sector, Kia has achieved the coveted first-place ranking in the USA’s J.D. Power Initial Quality Study for two years running. Ahead of all other car manufacturers for quality, Kia was also the highest-ranked brand in J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Study in Germany and UK in 2017.

With such momentum, Kia Motors Corporation recently launched its first-ever premium sports sedan, the Stinger (below) and its new hybrid crossover Niro, which are designed to boost the desirability and dynamism of the Kia brand. Portraying a modern, forward-looking image, Kia’s latest products speak loudly about the company’s efforts to prepare motorists for the future, with advanced powertrains, innovative technologies, and premium quality and design.

Digital technologies are at the heart of Kia’s efforts to engage with consumers in markets all around the world. In Korea, Kia broadcasted the anticipated launching show of its new Stinger model live, giving media and consumers the chance to witness the unveiling of the powerful new car first-hand. In the USA, Kia launched the ‘NiroBot’, a Facebook Messenger service allowing users of the social media platform to ask about the new Niro and get instant ‘live chat’ responses.

Also in China, the brand introduced a ‘Kia Surprising Lab’ YouTube service, featuring the technologies at the heart of its latest cars, the K5, KX5 and KX7, which you can see in the short video clip below. All of these efforts illustrate how Kia utilizes relevant and evolving technologies to enhance digital experience and to stay connected with consumers at all times.

To accompany the ongoing growth in the company’s product line-up, official partnerships with the world’s most high-profile sports events continue to aid the strength of the brand. Sponsorship arrangements with FIFA, UEFA, NBA, LPGA and the Australian Open tennis championship have provided Kia with a wealth of opportunities to engage with young-at-heart consumers around the globe.

Stay tuned for our upcoming feature on why Kia is catching up fast with the more established Japanese brands! – Chris Wee.

Piston.my

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