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WEEKEND FEATURE: Honda HR-V Hybrid i-DCD Driven!

Honda Malaysia Sdn Bhd has done it again! With the rise of numerous competitors in the compact SUV market, HMSB has introduced the first-in-segment Hybrid Compact SUV, in the from of the ever-popular Honda HR-V. Benefitting from the use of a 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder internal-combustion engine paired with an electric motor, and on paper the HR-V Hybrid produces a combined 152Ps and 190Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, or i-DCD.

The HR-V Hybrid is not a PHEV (plug-in), it uses brake-energy regeneration as well as kinetic energy-loss during engine braking to recharge the battery. While driving, an animation on the instrument cluster constantly shows how the power is being used and distributed. In total EV mode – indicated by a green “EV” symbol – this HR-V runs in complete silence. Prodding the accelerator pedal unleashes all the 150 horses 190 Nm despatched by the engine and electric motor, producing the kind of acceleration that seems more suited for a 2.0-litre car.

That being said, during the Q&A session I did ask what’s been done to the suspension set-up given the added weight of the battery & electric-motor, and to my surprise, the engineers on hand mentioned that the suspension has been softened to cope with the added weight. This can actually be felt whilst seated at the back, where it can get a bit ‘bouncy’ especially in mid-corner undulations.

I also lamented the lack of rear aircon vents, and was informed that all HR-Vs have never had rear a/c vents, anywhere in the world. Speaking of which, Malaysia is the only country outside Japan that sells the HR-V Hybrid, how’s that for exclusive? Even Singapore doesn’t have this model variant.

Apart from that, the HR-V Hybrid, priced at around RM120,000 is surprisingly versatile, not just in terms of its powertrain, but also its useable interior space, as can be seen by the video above. The best part is, with the combination of the hybrid powertrain, the HR-V Hybrid returns an incredible 4.4L / 100km (claimed) fuel consumption figure during normal driving.

For more info on the Honda HR-V Range, click this link.

2019 Honda HR-V Hybrid Photo Gallery…

Volkswagen Dealers Participate In Retail Qualification World Championship (RQWC 2019)

The Volkswagen Training Academy in Glenmarie recently hosted the National Finals of the 2018/2019 Volkswagen Retail Qualification World Championship (RQWC). The Volkswagen RQWC is a global assessment that consists of online tests, theoretical and practical assessments, and exams that is open to all dealer staff – in particular services advisors, master technicians and parts service advisors. The assessment was created and tailored with the mission to strengthen dealer networks, improve quality and customer satisfaction in addition to providing insights on global standards and practices.

Kicking off last year, a total of 311 participants from the Volkswagen network in Malaysia took part in the online test, and a total of 27 top performers were chosen for the National Finals. The final 27 participants consist of 10 service advisors, 10 parts advisors and 7 master technicians.

The champions of the RQWC National Finals are Mr Lu Weng Jen from MHV Autohaus (Volkswagen Gombak) in the Service Advisor Category; Mr John Leow Zhi Kuan MHV Autohaus (Volkswagen Gombak) in the Parts Services Category; and Mr Yeoh Chun Ping from Goh Brother Motors (Volkswagen Juru) in the Master Technician category.

The 2018/2019 National Finals, which took place from the 19 to 21 February at the Volkswagen Training Academy was broken down into several modules for the respective categories over three days. Services advisors were tested on soft skills, dialogue reception and aftersales systems, whereas parts advisors were tested on role-play scenarios, aftersales systems and underwent a written exam. The Master technicians were tested on dialogue reception, diagnostic competency, technical professional competency and systematic methodology.

Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM said that participations in global assessments are a way to continuously ensure excellence in local standards. “It goes without saying that our customers are our top priority – and this is but one of the major initiatives we are taking to uphold our Volkswagen Cares philosophy to provide value-added, quality products and more importantly, exceptional service to our customers across our network.“

The syllabus for the RQWC National Finals are provided by Volkswagen AG, while execution and evaluation were conducted locally by a panel of judges from Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM). For more information, please visit www.volkswagen.com.my

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Launches New CKD E-Class Range, With 3 Variants!

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) has unveiled three new variants of the E-Class, which includes the all-new Mercedes-Benz E 350 AMG Line as well as the Mercedes-Benz E 200 SPORTSTYLE Avantgarde and the Mercedes-Benz E 300 Exclusive Line – exemplifying the automobile’s brand ethos, coupled with added state-of-the-art performance and safety features. The E-Class portrays style, status and exclusivity with class and progression.

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class range showcases a proud heritage in the premium luxury vehicles segment carrying the modern luxury hallmark and exclusivity with its suite of luxurious features and stylish highlights with distinctive emotive design and high-grade interior. With the launch of the Mercedes-Benz E 350 AMG Line, it expands the range with a luxury performance variant with the new turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine under the hood.

Introducing the new E-Class range, Mark Raine, Vice President, Sales and Marketing of MBM (above, right) said, “As the vehicle of choice in the premium executive limousine segment, we are proud to introduce the all-new Mercedes-Benz E 350 AMG Line to now lead the E-Class range. The locally-assembled car also comes with a four-cylinder 2.0 engine equipped with a belt-driven starter generator and the Driving Assistance Package with state-of-the-art safety technologies”.

Raine added, “Alongside the E 350 AMG Line debut, we are also proud to introduce two new variants − the Mercedes-Benz E 200 SPORTSTYLE (below) Avantgarde and the Mercedes-Benz E 300 Exclusive (above) – to further complete the existing lineup. New in the E 200 and the E 300 is the Blind Spot Assist and the Lane Tracking Package, respectively”.

According to Raine, the E-Class is the core of the Mercedes-Benz brand and has gone through several stages of redefinition to continue carrying the wealth of top-class innovations, stylish highlights and an impeccable interior with high-value perception.

The new range of locally-assembled Mercedes-Benz E-Class takes a step further in the evolution of safety, comfort and performance while upholding the standard of design and luxury. With the latest Mercedes-Benz E 350 AMG Line (above), the Mercedes-Benz E 200 SPORTSTYLE Avantgarde and the Mercedes-Benz E 300 Exclusive customers will get to experience best-in-class luxury and performance.

“The E-Class, is a class of its own. It carries the modern luxury hallmark and exclusivity that is only made possible through Mercedes-Benz craftsmanship. Riding into its latest generation of its long and successful heritage, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class continues to deliver stylish highlights with its distinct, emotive design and an impeccable interior with high value perception,” said President and CEO of MBM Dr Claus Weidner (above, left) in his welcome speech at the media launch.

Locally-assembled Mercedes-Benz E-Class range and data at a glance:

Model	E 200 SPORTSTYLE Avantgarde	E 300 Exclusive	E 350 AMG Line
Number of cyl./ arrangement	4/in-line, 4 valves per cylinder	4/in-line, 4 valves per cylinder	4/in-line, 4 valves per cylinder
Displacement (cc)	1991	1991	1991
Rated output (kW/hp at rpm)	145/197 at 5,500	190/258 at 5,800	220/299 at 5,800
Rated torque (Nm at rpm)	320/1,650 – 4,000	370/1,800 – 4,000	400/3,000 – 4,000
Acceleration 0-100 km/h (s)	7.5	6.2	5.9
Top speed (km/h)	240	250	250
Price (OTR w/o Insurance)	RM 329,888.00 (estimated)	RM 379,888.00 (estimated)	RM 399,888.00

BONUS! Own your masterpiece of intelligence…

The E-Class certainly portrays class and progression. So does its financing, a class act of its own, designed with your lifestyle in mind. Enjoy affordable monthly instalments, flexible end of agreement options, a guaranteed future value of your car and a wide range of insurance products.

The E-ssential financing starts from RM3,998 and comes with a variety of packages. Just choose a financing package that suits your need and we will take care of the rest. Now for a limited time, all Agility financing contract comes with 2 Complimentary Comprehensive Service Package. Perfectly tailored for the individual who seeks value, unrivalled benefits and peace of mind at the wheel.

Indulge in the advantages of Agility Financing offerings while the performance of your prized investment is well taken care of by Mercedes-Benz certified and trained technicians with genuine spare parts at their disposal. Campaign ends on April 30^th, 2019. For more details call 1-800-88-1133 or speak to a Finance and Insurance Executive at your nearest Mercedes-Benz Autohaus.

Monthly instalment above is calculated based on a 5 years tenure and downpayment of approximately 30% for the E350 AMG Line. Terms and conditions apply. Mercedes-Benz Financial – A Daimler Financial Services Brand. The financial services provided by Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia Sdn Bhd are regulated by the provisions of the Financial Services Act 2013. Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia’s operations are not within the regulatory purview of Bank Negara Malaysia.

BIMS 2019: The Bangkok International Motorshow 2019 Is Coming, And It’s The 40th Edition

The 40^th Bangkok International Motor Show 2019 (40^th BIMS) is ready to open its doors for car enthusiasts! Organised by Grand Prix International Public Company Limited under the theme of “ENJOYMENT OF AUTOMOBILES” from 27 March to 7 April 2019 at IMPACT Challenger, Muang Thong Thani.

Dr. Prachin Eamlumnow (above), CEO of Grand Prix PCL and the Chairman of the 40^th Bangkok International Motor Show revealed that ““Bangkok International Motor Show” has been internationally recognized as the Greatest Motor Show of ASEAN, proven by the annual participation of various global leading automotive brands.

The show will feature 33 international automotive brands and 14 renowned motorcycle companies. This year also marks the inaugural participation of the world’s finest supercar brand like McLaren for the first time in Thailand. This significantly reflects how important the 40^th BIMS is as the event that strengthen the image and the growth of Thailand’s automotive industry in the international arena.” he said.

The Japanese participating brands include those of Toyota, Lexus, Nissan, Honda, Mitsubishi, Isuzu, Mazda, Subaru, Suzuki – KIA, Hyundai represent Korean manufacturers, while Europe and USA brands are the likes of Audi, Aston Martin, BMW, Bentley, Chevrolet, Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lamborghini, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, Maserati, McLaren, Porsche, Rolls-Royce, Volvo alongside with FOMM and MIND the newcomers from the EV segment. For the motorbike zone, this year will see 14 brands in total, namely Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki, Harley-Davidson, Triumph, Vespiario, GPX, etc.

This year, the “Bangkok International Motor Show” will be travelling through time to its 40^th Anniversary. The Organizer then decided to celebrate this auspicious occasion with special setups that will bring everyone back 4 decades ago to the time when Bangkok International Motor Show was held for the first time at Lumpini Park in 1979 before the legendary story move on to other venues and the current one. The exhibition will feature the history of BIMS along with the development, growth and how BIMS take part in the automotive industry in a retro vibe that many will feel nostalgic of the good old days.

“Many thanks to the Royal Automobile Association of Thailand Under Royal Patronage, Ministry of Industry, Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Society of Automotive Engineer – Thailand, Thai Auto Parts Manufacturers Association, Kits and Accessory Parts of Motorcycle (Thai) Association and Impact Exhibition Management Company Limited for the kind support as always.” – GPI International.

Mr. Jaturont Komolmis (above), Executive Committee / COO of Grand Prix International PCL and the Vice Chairman of the 40^th Bangkok International Motor Show said “The 40^th BIMS is held under the theme of “ENJOYMENT OF AUTOMOBILES”, conveying the craftmanship of modern-day automobiles that have been finely designed to blend well with cutting-edge technologies equipped with the car to bring out the most enjoyable experience between man and machine on all journeys.”

“The Bangkok International Motor Show is said to be the first auto event of Thailand that has been able to keep its leadership in the organizing standard for more than 4 decades – and is also the significant index which trigger the bustle atmosphere of Thailand’s automotive industry since the very first quarter of each year. Despite the current upslope trend, in which consumer behavior is dramatically shifted from offline to online, our study found that consumers still require to see, test, touch and feel the actual vehicle before buying a car of their choice. So, we believe that such changing trend will not affect the number of visitors.” he added.

Last year, the total number of visitors through out the 12-day event is as high as 1,620,000 people, while the number expected this year is not lesser than last year. Visitors to the show will have first-hand experience of the latest models as well as concept cars, embrace cutting-edge technology and innovation of today and tomorrow. More than 10 new models will be launched by world renowned brands, especially those of alternative energy vehicles like EV, Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid, which conform to the government policy of developing Thailand as the leader of Electric Vehicle in the near future. Special promotions and campaigns offering by individual brand will surely attract attention of visitors and potential buyers, allowing great ease of purchase within one visit, while ensuring the growth of domestic car market at the same time.

Most of the exhibition spaces have been vigorously booked by car and bike companies as usual, even though the rent-out space in the Accessories Hall is dropped by 40% due to many small entrepreneurs have changed their business model to online platform more and more. However, there is no impact on the overall business turnover because the revenue generated from the event grows by 1.17% compared to last year. To respond to the growing demand of SUV market, a specially designed SUV test drive ground is added to this year’s event, reflecting the Organizer’s dedication and attention to details in developing the show.

As every year, the admission fee is maintained at 100 THB and comes with the ‘Lucky Draw’ campaign. Every ticket purchased will have a chance to win cars and motorcycles that worth more than 3.5 million Baht. All lucky draw participants are required to complete the registration and fill in the questionnaire via www.bangkok-motorshow.com

For further convenience in visiting the show, the Organizer of the 40^th BIMS also team up with Kasikorn Bank in selling advance ticket through online channel. The ticket can be purchased in advance via ‘K-PLUS’ application under special campaign of ‘40-Day : 40-Baht’. The special rate ticket will be available from 13 February through 26 March 2019.

The 40^th Bangkok International Motor Show is held from 27 March through 7 April 2019 (12 days in total) at Challenger Hall 1-3, IMPACT Muang Thong Thani. For more information, please visit www.bangkok-motorshow.com

Ferrari Unleashes Most Powerful V8 In Its History – The Ferrari F8 Tributo!

Ferrari has revealed the first official photographs of the F8 Tributo, the new mid-rear engined sports car that represents the highest expression of the company’s classic two-seater berlinetta. The name is an homage to both the model’s uncompromising layout and to the engine that powers it – with a massive 720 cv (bhp) and a record specific power output of 185 cv/l, (bhp per litre) it is the most powerful V8 in Prancing Horse history for a non-special series car and sets the benchmark not just for turbos, but for engines across the board. The 3902 cc V8 won “Best Engine” in the International Engine of the Year awards three years running in 2016, 2017 and 2018 and, in addition, in 2018, was awarded the title of the best engine of the last two decades.

As these prestigious awards demonstrate, in the automotive world, Ferrari’s V8 engine is seen as the very epitome of sportiness and driving pleasure. This is particularly the case when it is mid-rear-mounted in a two-seater. Ferrari has been honing the scope of abilities of this architecture, which creates an optimal weight balance, to perfection for over four decades. The result is the F8 Tributo, which is one of the fastest, most thrilling and communicative supercars ever.

The new car replaces the 488 GTB, with improvements across the board, providing even better control on the limit along with greater on-board comfort. The F8 Tributo punches out 50 cv more than the car it replaces, is lighter and benefits from a 10% improvement in aerodynamic efficiency along with the latest version of the Side Slip Angle Control, now in 6.1 guise. So while the F8 Tributo offers the highest levels of performance of any car in the current range, that performance is also very usable.

Ferrari F8 Tributo

Technical specifications

ENGINE

Type 90-degree V8 turbo

Overall displacement 3902 cc

Max. power output* 720 cv at 8,000 rpm

Specific power output 185 cv/l

Max. torque 770 Nm at 3,250 rpm

DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHT

Length 4611 mm

Width 1979 mm

Height 1206 mm

Dry weight** 1330 kg

PERFORMANCE

0-100 km/h 2.9 s

0-200 km/h 7.8 s

Top speed 340 km/h

* With 98 octane petrol

**With lightweight options

More on the Ferrari Tributo…

The F8 Tributo delivers its 720 cv without the slightest hint of turbo lag and produces an evocative soundtrack. Instantaneous power is matched by exceptional handling thanks to advanced vehicle dynamics solutions. These include a new version of the Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer (FDE+) which can be activated in the manettino’s RACE position for the first time, a move designed to make performance on the limit easier to reach and control for an even greater number of drivers. The steering wheel rim is also smaller in diameter to enhance the level of tactility and make the car feel even more agile. In addition, weight reduction measures have cut the car’s dry weight by 40 kg compared to the 488 GTB, further enhancing both responsiveness and driving pleasure without impinging on interior comfort.

State-of-the-art aerodynamic solutions incorporated into the car’s body help ensure that the extraordinarily powerful engine can be fully exploited. As with the 488 Pista, the F8 Tributo’s aero package is directly evolved from the track and it adopts several features from the 488 Pista designed to help manage engine heat, including, for instance, the rearward-angled front radiators and the dynamic engine air intakes positioned either side of the spoiler instead of on the rear flanks. Designed by the Ferrari Styling Centre, the F8 Tributo is essentially a bridge to a new design language that will continue to emphasise Ferrari’s key characteristics of high performance and extreme aerodynamic efficiency.

The front of the car is characterised by the S-Duct, a solution that made its debut on the 488 Pista, but which has been redesigned to suit the extensive modifications made to this area of the car. The result is that the S-Duct alone contributes an impressive 15% to the overall increase in downforce compared to the 488 GTB. The new, more compact, horizontal LED headlights allowed Ferrari’s aerodynamicists to incorporate new brake cooling intakes in combination with those on the outside of the bumper, the aim being to improve air flow throughout the entire wheelarch and thereby avoid having to increase the size of the braking system to cope with the car’s greater speed.

The new Lexan rear screen showcases the engine compartment and also brings a modern twist to the most distinctive design element from Ferrari’s most famous V8, the F40. The louvres help extract hot air from the engine compartment without impacting the efficiency of the blown spoiler which has been further evolved to increase downforce generated at the rear. The spoiler wraps around the tail lights, visually lowering the car’s centre of gravity and allowing a return to the classic twin light cluster and body-coloured tail, another signature of the early 8-cylinder berlinettas like the very first in the legendary series, the 1975 308 GTB.

The cabin retains the classic, driver-oriented cockpit look typical of Ferrari’s mid-rear-engined berlinettas, but every element of the dash, door panels and tunnel, has been completely redesigned. The new generation HMI (Human Machine Interface), complete with round air vents, new steering wheel and controls as well as a new 7” passenger touchscreen display, significantly enhance the on-board environment for driver and passenger.