With a full lockdown Movement Control Order (MCO) to run from June 1 to June 14, 2021, many businesses are required to stop operations and these include car companies. In connection with this directive, Honda Malaysia has announced that its main business operations will remain closed for the period.
The business operations involved are the company’s assembly plant in Pegoh (Melaka), sales office and authorised dealer showrooms nationwide. However, aftersales services are permitted so owners can send their vehicles to authorised Honda service centres nationwide. Aftersales services available are preventive maintenance, Body and Paint (BP) and towing assistance.
Showrooms will be closed for 2 weeks (tentatively) but service centres will continue to operate.
Honda Malaysia encourages owners to use the HondaTouch application to make their appointments at the service centres. They should not just go to the service centres without a prior appointment as this will not be entertained so appointments must be made in advance. It should also be noted that there is a restriction on the range that they can travel which is 10 kms from their home, so they should locate the nearest authorised service centre.
All Honda dealerships strictly adhere to the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) specified by the health authorities for the safety of Honda customers and company associates as well as to provide customers peace of mind when visiting the dealerships.
Honda today gave the world its first look at the next generation of the BR-V, presented as the N7X Concept. The original BR-V had its world debut in Indonesia in August 2015, and now, for the first time, Honda is unveiling a concept car in the country. The reason is that the BR-V is a model that was developed primarily with the Indonesia market in mind, although it is also sold in some other countries, including Malaysia.
For the second generation, the 7-seater cabin is maintained, this being an important point for customers in Indonesia. Honda understands that a car is ‘not just a car’, and considering how much time people spend in it, the vehicle is also a ‘second home’. This led the design team at Honda Asia Pacific to combine the best features of a MPV and the advantages of a SUV for the N7X Concept that will be the basis for the forthcoming new BR-V.
Designed with Gen X in mind
The exterior design is sleeker than the current BR-V and the overall size appears larger. There are some styling elements from other models, such as the CR-V, with the high ground clearance being a necessity in Indonesia and also other parts of ASEAN.
Honda product planners conducted extensive studies, primarily in Indonesia, to find out what customers expect and aimed to exceed the expectations. They focussed especially on the Generation X family, which has a lifestyle that is balanced between personal activities and family togetherness.
Details of the interior are not available other than from brief views during the presentation. With words like ‘premium’ being used, it is likely that Honda will offer the new BR-V with a higher quality than before, the same way that the City evolved upwards. Of course, with the emphasis on safety, we may see better safety systems installed, probably including an autonomous braking capability.
Honda’s idea of a 7-seater
“The N7X is our concept of what a 7-seater car should be, which not only offers pleasant driving performance but also the serenity and comfort of a premium car for all occupants. We are very proud to make Indonesia the first in the world to introduce the N7X Concept, a concept that will redefine the categories of cars and driving pleasure,” said Takehiro Watanabe, President Director of PT Honda Prospect Motor, during the world premiere online.
The current BR-V was launched at the Indonesia International Auto Show in 2015 but given the current pandemic, the future of such public events remains uncertain. Nevertheless, Honda Indonesia is displaying the N7X Concept at a shopping mall in Jakarta this week, and will probably do an online launch of the production model sometime during the second half of this year.
2019 BR-V (the model received some updates last year). Prices start from RM86,726.
The BR-V arrived in Malaysia about 2 years after its debut in Indonesia, though this second generation might not take as long. Anyway, if you prefer the current one and want to get one before it runs out, visit any authorized Honda dealer and their locations can be found at www.honda.com.my.
It’s 2021 and just under 6 years from the time the 10th generation was introduced (in America), Honda has revealed a new generation of the Civic. With a history of almost 50 years, the 11th generation Civic continues the nameplate that was used for Honda’s first global car.
In designing the new Civic, Honda stylists and engineers revisited design concepts of previous generations, maintaining the brand’s original design approach of ‘Man-Maximum, Machine-Minimum’ (or ‘M/M’). Unlike the 10th generation which had a major design change from its predecessor, an evolutionary approach has been taken this time round for the 11th generation.
Subtle design changes
The body design is ‘thin and light’ with a low bonnet and front fenders, and the low horizontal beltline gives a low-slung look to the profile. Key to the new Civic’s styling was moving the bottom of the windscreen pillars further back rearward by 50 mm, which elongates its bonnet for a sleeker silhouette. This also visually connects the pillar to the front wheel hub, a subtle design element that emphasizes its wheels and tyres for a stable, planted stance.
Current 10th generation Civic (Malaysian market).
A low beltline with horizontal windowsills and door-mounted side mirrors improve visibility while maintaining the clean lines of the exterior. A sharp shoulder character line carves a gentle arc from the front fender to the taillights, giving continuity to the design. The lower character line carries up from the bottom of the front door, rising across the rear doors, and through the rear fenders for an enhanced sense of motion.
The additional stability provided by its new wider rear track is emphasized by stronger rear shoulders, wide-set taillights, and the upswept and aerodynamically efficient trailing edge of its bootlid. LEDs are used extensively for all the lighting units, offering benefits such as quick light-up time and longer life as well as low energy consumption.
Uncluttered cabin appearance
Inside, the M/M approach gives a simple, clean and modern look that is reminiscent of the early Civics. Back then, there were less electronic features so there was less ‘visual clutter’ and the interior designers have sought to replicate this for the latest model.
While the overall dimensions are not significantly changed (although the wheelbase has increased), which means the interior packaging continues to offer good head, leg, shoulder and hip room for all occupants. The sense of spaciousness is enhanced by the low, flat beltline and clean cabin layout, as well as the expansive view all round. The front seat design uses Honda’s Body Stabilizing Seat approach with a new-generation seat frame that firmly holds the body, enhancing comfort on long drives.
Further improving visibility is the top of the Civic’s instrument panel, which has been designed with minimum cutlines to reduce windscreen reflections and visual distractions. A striking metal honeycomb mesh accent stretches from door to door across the dashboard. It serves both form and function, creating a dramatic visual dividing line between the audio, information displays and climate controls, while the intricate flow-through design conceals the air vents for an uncluttered look.
High-quality materials are used throughout the interior, especially on touchpoints, with close attention paid to the operation of all switchgear and controls. Materials were also chosen with an eye toward practicality, such as the new premium centre console trim specifically designed to hide fingerprints and smudges to help maintain a high-end appearance.
Driver-focused technology
The instrument panel has become more high-tech with partial or full digital displays, depending on the variant. Top variants will have the Civic’s first all-digital LCD instrument display measuring 10.2 inches with a high-definition full-colour LCD panel. A ‘surprise-and-delight’ feature – the brake lights, headlights and turn signals of the displayed Civic vehicle image turn on and off when activated or deactivated.
For the North American market, where the new Civic will be manufactured at two locations, Honda is installing a Bose Premium Sound System for the first time (in the model). The system has been custom-engineered precisely for the best sound quality and reproduction in the Civic’s cabin. Expert audio engineers developed the Bose sound system with advanced components and technologies, working closely with Honda engineers to integrate the system early in the vehicle design process.
Stiffer body structure
The 11th-generation Civic body structure is said to be the most rigid in Civic history, with an 8% improvement in torsional rigidity and 13% improvement in bending rigidity versus the previous generation. This stiffer structure supports improvements in ride, handling and NVH.
As with other models, Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering structure is designed to meet present and anticipated future collision standards while minimizing additional weight. This is achieved with the extensive use of lightweight materials, such as aluminium and various grades of high-strength steel, as well as an expanded application of structural adhesives. The new, stiffer body also reduces the transmission of road and wind noise to create a more relaxed driving environment.
Drivetrain choices
Engine choices will differ from region to region although the two 4-cylinder engines – a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre or a turbocharged 1.5-litre – are likely to continue to be offered for ASEAN versions. Both are paired with an updated CVT and are said to have improved fuel efficiency.
The suspension system has been tuned to take maximum advantage of the stiffer body structure and lengthened wheelbase for a smoother ride, while improving sporty handling. The front MacPherson struts have new low-friction ball joints and front damper mount bearings to improve steering feel and self-centering, and the spring and damper alignment has been optimized to minimize operational friction.
At the rear, the wider track enhances stability, with a new larger compliance bushing with an improved bushing axis to minimize harshness. Additionally, the two rear lower arms are equipped with a new bushing that reduces noise and vibration inside the cabin, while also promoting better straight-line stability and turn in. The electronic power steering has been re-tuned to provide better feedback and improved straight-line stability.
An all-new and lighter aluminium front subframe with an efficient truss and rib structure provides rigidity and stability. Additionally, a new lightweight flex tube in the exhaust system decreases noise transmission. The reduced suspension friction and improved bushings help reduce harsh road shock by 20%.
Advancing safety performance
New active and passive safety systems are available for the Civic and in a world’s first application, both driver and passenger frontal airbags are designed to more effectively reduce conditions associated with brain injury by better controlling head motions in certain types of crashes. These all-new airbag designs, offered in the US version, attempt to address the recently recognized issue of severe brain trauma associated with angled frontal collisions.
The Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure in the new Civic has been enhanced for even better compatibility with larger vehicles. This includes improved occupant protection in angled frontal collisions, with a new upper A-pillar structure, side frame and lower firewall structure—all designed to route crash energy around the cabin. Side impact protection also has been improved, with stiffer structures in the roof, side sill and B-pillar, doors, and the rear wheel arch and C-pillar.
The new front driver’s airbag system in the Civic uses an innovative donut-shaped structure to cradle and hold the head to reduce rotation. The passenger-side front airbag uses a three-chamber design to achieve a similar result, with two outer chambers designed to cradle and control head rotation. It is also used in the new Acura TLX and MDX.
The standard Honda Sensing suite of active safety and driver assistive technologies uses a new single-camera system that provides a wider field of view than the previous radar+camera-based system. Combined with software advances and a new, more powerful processor, the system is also capable of more quickly and accurately identifying pedestrians, bicyclists and other vehicles, along with road lines and road signs.
The new camera-based system improves on existing functionality, such as more natural brake application and quicker reactions when using Adaptive Cruise Control. It also has more linear and natural steering action when using the Lane-Keeping Assist System. With the addition of 8 sonar sensors, the Civic will have, for the first time, Low-Speed Braking Control, and front and rear false-start prevention.
Pedestrian safety was not overlooked in the engineering of the new Civic. It has a new front bumper beam safety plate designed to decrease leg injuries and the bonnet incorporates an embossed inner structure designed to reduce injuries to the head if the pedestrian hits the bonnet.
Images and video of new Civic shown are of the US version. ASEAN version may differ in some areas and features.
New Civic for ASEAN
As has been the case for many generations now, the model revealed in America may not be identical to the one we will get in Malaysia. Honda designers consider preferences influenced by culture and make small changes here and there. However, the engineering would be largely similar since that part has been developed at great cost and to make too many modifications would be an unnecessary expense.
Every Civic generation has been assembled in Malaysia since the mid-1970s when the first generation was launched. It was the 100,000th unit (inclusive of other models) assembled at Honda Malaysia’s plant in Melaka in 2007.
As it takes up to a year for a new Honda model to be in Malaysian showrooms, this new Civic generation will probably appear in early 2022. When the model is launched in Thailand, then you can expect the Malaysian debut to occur within months. The only thing that may slow down the process is that the Civic is assembled locally at the Melaka plant, and Honda Malaysia tries to localise parts supply as much as possible. This is an extra step that adds time, instead of just getting all the parts in the pack from the main factory in Thailand.
Do you like the new Civic? If you prefer the current one and want to get one before stocks run out, you can locate an authorised dealer at www.honda.com.my.
A number of models are being recalled by Honda Malaysia to replace a fuel pump as a precautionary measure. This follows an announcement last year in connection with a global recall by the carmaker, with 55,354 units of Honda vehicles assembled in Malaysia in 2018 and 2019 being affected. Now, Honda Malaysia says that an additional 77,708 vehicles have also been added to the recall list. The latest models currently on sale are not affected.
The affected models added to the recall list are shown below:
The earlier recall list issued in June 2020.
No incidents reported so far
Honda Malaysia believes this recall is necessary as a preventive measure to address the possibility of difficulty in starting the engine, loss of engine power or vehicle stalling. So far, there are no incidences of crashes or injuries caused by this issue reported in Malaysia. However, as customer safety is Honda Malaysia’s top priority, the company will continue to uphold transparency and stringent controls for all its customers.
Owners of affected vehicles will be informed via notification letters which will include details of the recall. Owners can also check if their vehicle is affected in the fuel pump recall using the HondaTouch application or visit www.honda.com.my/productrecall.honda.com.my.
If you are not the original owner
It is possible that some owners may not receive notification letters as they are not the original owners whose details are on Honda Malaysia’s database. In this case, they can obtain assistance from an authorised Honda dealer to check on the status of their vehicle, or call Honda Malaysia’s Toll-Free number at 1-800-88-2020.
Honda Malaysia urges all affected owners to contact any authorised Honda dealer to make an appointment upon receipt of the notification to replace the fuel pump, subject to parts availability. The replacement of the affected fuel pump is free of charge and all costs related to this activity will be borne by Honda Malaysia.
‘Mobility’ is a word that automakers like to use today, some explaining that they are transforming themselves from just being vehicle manufacturers to ‘mobility companies’. Honda too sees itself as a mobility company and indeed, over the 73 years it has been in business, it has developed products that provide mobility for the masses. In fact, it’s the world’s largest power unit manufacturer, making products from power generators used at pasar malams to motorized transport and even jet aircraft.
Honda would like to be regarded as a company that society wants to exist, because of the good things it does and can do. And as a responsible corporate citizen, it also has to consider important global issues concerning the environment and road safety, the latter related to the vehicles it provides.
With reduction of carbon emissions as a priority, Honda has made a firm commitment to achieve carbon neutrality for all its products and corporate activities by 2050. In this way, its business will have zero environmental impact and this will require the use of clean energy and resource recirculation.
In order to achieve this carbon-free goal on a ‘tank-to-wheel’ basis, Honda has decided that by 2040 – just 19 years from now – it will sell only battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCVs). It will no longer sell vehicle with internal combustion engines (ICE) that generate pollution, even if much has been done in past decades to bring pollution from exhaust emissions down (Honda’s CVCC system being one of the ways).
Of course, between now and 2040, the phasing out of ICE vehicles has to be progressive and will start with the more advanced markets where there is already a trend of electrification. In fact, Norway has already reported that sales of fully electric vehicles have overtaken ICE vehicles in that country. The ratio of electrified vehicles will be 40% by 2030 and then doubled to 80% by 2035.
The company has identified North America as one of the regions where it will pursue the targets and has formed an alliance with GM to achieve electrification in North America efficiently. The two companies are jointly developing two large EV models using GM’s Ultium batteries which will enter the market in 2024 under both the Honda and Acura brands.
Starting from the second half of the 2020s, Honda will launch a series of new EV models which adopt e:Architecture, a completely new EV platform developed by the company. These EV models will first be introduced to the North American market, and then to other regions of the world.
China, the world’s largest automobile market, will also see a similar progression to EVs and during the next 5 years, at least 10 Honda-brand models will be introduced. In fact, the first of these will be the SUV e:prototype which is scheduled to go on sale in early 2022.
SUV e:prototype, unveiled in Shanghai this week, will go on sale in 2022 as the symbolic first Honda-brand EV in China.
Japan, Honda’s home market, will see a sales ratio of 20% EVs by 2030, 80% by 2035 and 100% by 2040. However, if including hybrid models, 100% of automobile sales in Japan can be electrified by 2030. There will also be a K-car EV in 2024 as well.
It will be interesting to see how Honda deals with markets which do not have firm policies concerning EVs. Obviously the company won’t want to stop selling altogether but conditions could be difficult if prices of EVs do not come down sufficiently for the masses to afford. Right now, in countries like Malaysia, the fact that EVs have to be imported in CBU form makes them very expensive and low numbers will not be encouraging for companies, even less so to consider local assembly that could help offset the high production costs. Even then, a poor recharging infrastructure will be a discouraging factor to consumers and this would need government support to establish comprehensively and extensively.
Cruise Origin self-driving vehicle.
In the area of mobility services (MaaS), Honda will introduce the Cruise Origin, an electric self-driving vehicle. The company is currently developing jointly the vehicle with GM and Cruise, for the Japanese MaaS market in the mid-2020s. On a broader scale, Honda will continue to work on the concept of Honda eMaaS (mobility services) by connecting electrified mobility products and energy service. Honda eMaaS will have three core areas: Expansion of the utilization of Mobile Power Packs; utilization of large-capacity batteries for electrified vehicles; and application and implementation of fuel cell systems.
Regarding fuel cell systems, hydrogen is expected to be popularized as a renewable energy source and Honda has a long history of R&D in hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCVs). It was one of the first carmakers to produce a FCV which was successfully used on a commercial basis and its collaboration with GM will see reduced costs and expansion of its line-up of FCVs and also using FC systems for a wide range of applications.
Honda has many years of experience in developing fuel cell vehicles (FCVs). In 2008, it introduced the FCX Clarity which had a hydrogen fuel cell to generate electrical power.
Honda will strive for zero traffic collision fatalities involving Honda motorcycles and automobiles globally by 2050. The major challenge we will face as we work toward this goal is how to eliminate motorcycle collision fatalities, especially in emerging countries. As a company that has both motorcycle and automobile businesses, we will continue to strengthen our research on safety technologies that enable motorcycles and automobiles to safely coexist and lead the way in realizing a collision-free society from the standpoint of both hardware and software.
As for road safety and the 2050 objective of zero traffic collision fatalities involving motorcycles and cars, Honda will apply omnidirectional ADAS (advanced driver-assistance system) to all new automobile models on sales in developed countries by 2030. However, the high accident rates occur in less developed or emerging markets where there are very high numbers of motorcycles. In such areas, particularly in emerging markets, there are many collisions that can be prevented through traffic safety education activities and by approaching the issue from the perspective of infrastructure and government policies. Therefore, Honda will focus also on such areas including strengthening of educational programs and government/industry relations activities.
Future Honda models will have sensors that can scan all round the vehicle to reduce collisions with other road-users, especially motorcyclists.
In order for Honda to keep making progress in its environmental and safety initiatives, it will be necessary for the company to invest in the R&D. This investment will not be influenced by fluctuations in sales revenues and Honda declares that it will invest a total of approximately 5 trillion yen as R&D expenses over the next 6 years.
Honda has been actively developing EV models since the 1990s, some of which have gone on sale in selected markets. By 2040, its range will consist entirely of EVs.
“As of last fiscal year, we enabled Honda R&D to focus on the research of advanced technologies, and we are conducting research on leading-edge environmental and safety technologies for the realization of a society that aims for zero environmental impact and a collision-free society. Also, we are making progress with research on technologies which will expand mobility into the 3rd and 4th dimensions, into the skies, the ocean, outer space and the area of robotics. We will strengthen our original research of technologies by ensuring optimal allocation of resources into the area of advanced and cutting-edge technologies,” said Toshihiro Mibe, Honda Motor’s new President and Representative Director who took over the position from Takahiro Hachigo at the beginning of this month.
“My hope is to hear people saying, ‘We are glad Honda exists’ or ‘Honda will definitely do it’. Honda wants to continue to be a company that people want to exist. That is what we want to achieve,” Mr. Mibe said during his inaugural speech as new President.
Honda Malaysia today concluded its ‘1 Million Dreams’ campaign celebrating the achievement of 1 million vehicles sales with the presentation of the final three ‘1 Million Dreams’ Special Edition models to the lucky winners. The presentation ceremony was done together with the brand partners for the campaign – CUCKOO, Shopee and Watsons.
“Thanks to the excellent leadership of my predecessors, the strong commitment of our Honda associates and dealers as well as the support from the Malaysian government has led Honda Malaysia to achieve many remarkable milestones. Today, I am very privileged to be here celebrating this outstanding achievement with all of you and presenting the final three ‘1 Million Dreams’ Special Edition models to the lucky winners from our brand partners,” said Madoka Chujo, Honda Malaysia’s new Managing Director & CEO.
The three exclusive models
The three exclusive Honda models were the BR-V, HR-V and latest City and the winners were Mohd Aisamuddin bin Mohd Azilah, Muhammed Faisal Adnan and Megawati binti Affendi, respectively.
Additionally, Ahmad Sirwan Bin Mat Tuselim who was the customer who made the 1 millionth vehicle purchase – a Civic – was presented with a token of appreciation worth more than RM8,000 from Honda Malaysia together with the three brand partners.
Ahmad Sirwan bin Mat Tuselim (centre) , the 1-millionth customer, with Honda Malaysia’s Managing Director & CEO, Madoka Chujo (right) and President & COO, Sarly Adle Sarkum (left).
Exclusive features inside and outside
Four other models – the Civic, CR-V, Accord and Jazz – were presented to winners earlier at a Grand Finale held at the Bukit Jalil Stadium outside Kuala Lumpur. Each of the models had exclusive features such as a Dual Tone Exterior, Front Fascia with Red Highlights, Sporty Red Line Side Mirrors, Black Painted Alloy Wheels with Red Highlights and ‘1 Million Dreams’ Signature Emblems on both front fenders of the cars.
Inside the Special Edition models were ‘1 Million Dreams’ Embossed Leather Headrests on the front seats as well as a Leather-wrapped Steering Wheel with Red Stitching and Centre Mark. Each winner also received a ‘1 Million Dreams’ Special Edition Leather Key Pouch.
The ‘1 Million Dreams’ campaign, which included a number of activities, started on February 25, 2021 and submission of entries closed on March 24. Members of the public were invited to participate in the activities to obtain entry forms and those who had registered on the Honda Touch app got 5x more entries. Besides requesting for a test-drive at any authorised Honda dealership, there were 5 other ways for them to obtain entries. According to the company, over 155,600 entries received in just one month.
To know more about Honda products and services in Malaysia or to locate a showroom for a test-drive, visit www.honda.com.my.
Honda Malaysia is strong in its gender equality and especially in product planning, teams have been led by women. Now the company can add having its first female Managing Director and CEO, Madoka Chujo to the list. While she is not the first female heading a car company in Malaysia, she is still one of the few to date.
Ms Chujo takes over from Toichi Ishiyama who returns to the head office in Japan. She was previously Vice-President at Honda Canada Inc. since 2019. She has been with Honda Motor Company for 23 years and has held various roles in Japan, China, Spain and Canada. Her expertise and experience are in the area of sales strategy which she applied in her previous positions.
Commenting on her new role at Honda Malaysia, Ms. Chujo said: “Malaysia is indeed an important market in the Asia and Oceania region with Honda Malaysia achieving various significant sales milestones and has become one of the leading automotive brands in the country. I am looking forward and excited for my first assignment as the MD and CEO of Honda Malaysia and, at the same time, I am also eager to explore Malaysia as the country is unique and a melting pot of diverse cultures and people, with enormous potential and of course, a fast-paced work environment.”
During Mr. Ishiyama’s term as MD and CEO, he introduced a number of new models including the latest Honda City. He also maintained the brand’s No. 1 position in the Non-National segment.
Mr. Ishiyama, who was with Honda Malaysia since November 2017, oversaw the continued growth of the company as it passed 900,000 unit sales in 2019 and then reached the 1 millionth sales unit in March 2021 (the numbers are taken from the time Honda Malaysia was established). During Mr. Ishiyama’s term, Honda Malaysia has also continued to maintain its position as the No. 1 Non-National car brand for six consecutive years. The achievements are noteworthy, especially with the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic since March last year.
Honda Malaysia has many women who lead product teams developing new models, like Nadzirah Azli, who was involved in the fourth generation of the City.
Cabin ventilation systems in cars used to have either fresh air brought in from outside, or recirculated air. In some countries, manufacturers added filters especially to trap pollen and help those who had allergies. But generally, the system was quite straightforward and advancements were largely in improving cooling (or heating) efficiency and distribution of air.
Over the past 20 years, companies like Volvo have gone further to improve air quality, and some systems also have ion generators to freshen the air. Now Honda has developed a premium cabin air filter which it says can reliably captures viral aerosols, is highly effective at capturing a wide range of harmful germs, allergens and even viruses related to significant health problems, – including infection risks associated with the SARS COV-2 virus or what the world knows as COVID-19.
Honda genuine accessory
The Honda premium cabin air filter was developed in cooperation with Freudenberg of Germany and is offered as a new Honda genuine spare part in the European market, as an alternative to the standard Honda pollen filter in most recent models.
“As society is now more aware than even of the impact of germs and viruses such as COVID-19, we expect the demand for protective solutions to increase rapidly. This premium cabin air filter is a great example of Honda working together rapidly with its suppliers to deliver a product of real benefit that improves the health and safety of driver and occupants,” said Eiichi Hino, President Honda Access Europe NV.
Significantly reducing concentration of viral aerosols
This new premium cabin air filter provides active protection by significantly reducing the concentration of viral aerosols. This is achieved by a unique multi-layer design that effectively filters, captures and suppresses noxious environmental gases as well as inorganic and biological particles and aerosols.
The premium cabin air filter is available as a Honda accessory for recent models, including the new Honda e.
4-layer filtration system for maximum protection
The fine particle filtration layers provide improved protection against virus transmission in comparison to standard filters. They demonstrably separate not only droplets (> 5 μm), but also critical viral aerosols (droplet nuclei significantly below 5 μm).
The filter can trap more than 90% of viral aerosols and an innovative second step inactivates almost 100% of the captured viral load via a bio-functional layer impregnated with fruit extract. The first two microfibre layers of the Honda premium cabin air filter capture most ultrafine aerosols, dust and pollen while the third layer, made of activated carbon, is responsible for the adsorption of harmful pollution such as particulates and acid gases.
An innovative fourth bio-functional layer coated with the active substance of fruit extract then effectively inactivates captured viral aerosols and prevents them from being released back into the cabin air. This has been conclusively proved by a comprehensive series of tests conducted in collaboration with the Austrian Research Institute OFI.
Fresh air also important
Coronaviruses are spread in droplets produced when those affected sneeze, cough or breathe and can remain infectious on surfaces for hours or even days. Wind disturbances, temperature changes and humidity can all cause that these particles become airborne again, at which point they can be picked up by the filter. To lower the infection risk in the vehicle cabin, it is generally recommended to increase the fresh air supply to reduce the concentration of aerosols. In recirculation mode, removing viruses from the air largely depends on the efficiency of the filtration system and the air exchange rate.
Honda Malaysia has a close relationship with the state of Melaka as its own assembly plant is located in the state at the Pegoh Industrial Park. The plant began operations in 2003 and assembles a wide range of models which also have a high degree of localisation.
One of the latest models is the all-new Honda City RS e:HEV which entered showrooms this year. Part of the new City range, the RS e:HEV is powered by a highly efficient 2-motor hybrid system with Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive (i-MMD). With a 1.5-litre i-VTEC engine as part of the powertrain, the e:HEV system can deliver an impressive 253 Nm of torque with 109 ps of power. It will certainly be a game-changer in its segment.
Latest Honda City RS e:HEV
Recently, in connection with its association with Melaka, Honda Malaysia presented one unit of the City RS e:HEV to Invest Melaka Berhad (IMB). The presentation was in collaboration with SOCAR Mobility Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. (SOCAR) and in conjunction with the 50th anniversary celebration of Melaka State Development Corporation (PKNM).
Commenting on the presentation, Sarly Adle Sarkum, President & COO of Honda Malaysia said: “We are delighted to be a part of the celebration by Invest Melaka Berhad and to be able to contribute to the development of our local automotive industry. Honda began operations at Pegoh Plant in Melaka over 17 years ago and currently has two production lines with a production capacity of up to 100,000 units of vehicles per year. We are committed to the Malaysian market and the growth of the automotive industry here. We would like to thank the Malaysian Government, the State Government of Melaka, Invest Melaka Berhad and all our valued customers for their continuous trust which enables Honda to be the company that society wants to exist. With the strong support received, we have recently celebrated our remarkable milestone of 1 millionth sales unit. Honda will continue to be committed in giving back to all Malaysians through various initiatives.”
Honda Malaysia’s assembly plant in Melaka.
Visit any authorised Honda dealer to view, test-drive or purchase the new City. To locate a showroom, visit www.honda.com.my or call Honda’s Toll-Free number at 1-800-88-2020.
It is said that the best recipe for success is to keep things as basic and to the point as possible. With little fussing around, there’s little room for anything to be of considerable bother.
And in general automotive terms, there aren’t many cars that offer as bother-free ownership as a Honda City. It is as simple a recipe as a good car goes – a good design, a good interior with all the latest entertainment, comfortable seats, good space for occupants and their luggage and good safety features as well. The Honda City has it all yet does not overdo anything in particular. It is an achiever, yet not an overachiever, like a friend that went on to become a doctor, a GP, but not an industry dominating specialist.
That is until a new Honda City is introduced. And that is exactly where we are getting at with this article.
If you are a current Honda City owner and swear by it, then this would be a good time to trade up to the latest City. Or if you have always wanted a Honda City but have been waiting for the right moment to strike, well, that moment has arrived. Or if you just want a car that can safely and comfortably take the kids to college or uni.
The fifth-generation City has proven to be galaxies apart from its predecessor. And in this article, we give you some good reasons why this is the car you should be going for should you be looking to upgrade
Lets start with the interior..
The interior is leap years better than the City it replaces. In fact, we even dare say that it is as good an interior as an E46 BMW and save for a couple of panels here and there. Perhaps even as good the E90.
We are talking about quality and fitment here. And that’s before we get to the seats and the interior features.
But on the topic of the seats, this is the one part that has improved by leaps and bounds.
The seats in the new Honda are among the most, if not THE most, comfortable seats in the segment. You can probably feel the comfort level of the seat from the photo above alone, and when compared to the model it replaces (old seats shown below), the difference in comfort is akin to night and day in comparison.
This is of course in the top of the line V-variant, the others don’t offer such perfectly padded seats. And seats have to look just as good as they are to sit on, because great looking seats would be half the battle won. Don’t believe us? Why do you think Bentley or Rolls-Royce put in all that effort to ensure the leather they use are devoid of any imperfections? Because aesthetics are everything.
And then there is the onboard entertainment system. Accessible via an eight inch touch-screen display, which is again leaps and bounds better than the model it replaces, which offered only a tiny screen that was completely counter intuitive and looked and felt like it was installed at a local ‘brother’s’ outlet (shown below). In fact, it was so difficult to connect the bluetooth functions of your phone to the previous generations entertainment system that it was easier to simply talk on your phone while driving and paying the ‘saman’ you get for it than connecting your phone to the entertainment system. Worse if you had more than five people in the family sharing the car because the system only remembered five profiles. You had to delete on just to connect your own.
Now though, the entertainment system offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and the touch screen system is intuitive and easily navigable that even boomers would find it difficult to complain about.
Basically the interior is so much better than before that even the new steering wheel (above) feels like it has progressed about 20 years from the older model, both in touch and feel as well as functionality.
Then there are the air-conditioning controls. But before that, let it be known that we are huge fans of rotating dials because there is nothing more straight forward and to the point than one of those circular things that control functions so accurately.
The dials in a Lexus for example feel so good that it is reminiscent of a high-end audio amplifier, one of those that costs a kidney and feature a heavy metal dial.
The one in the Honda City is not made of metal and it doesn’t feel like you would need to sacrifice a kidney for it, but it feels good enough. And it is a much welcomed departure from the old touch screen ones where you had to tap it a couple of times if you wanted the blower to work harder, or to set the temperature. Now, all you have to do is rotate a dial. Simplicity is bliss.
Same power figures but better fuel consumption!
Engine bay of the new Honda City.
Well, the two run on almost the same engine, except that the new 1.5-litre now comes with a new DOHC units that puts out 121PS and 145Nm of torque. Just for reference, the previous City put out 120PS and the same 145Nm of torque. So there really isn’t much difference in terms of power, neither is it worth mentioning.
Engine bay of the previous generation Honda City.
But the new City is more efficient in terms of fuel efficiency, and when it comes to a car like the Honda City, that is ultimately what matters (simply because no one buys a Honda City for its power figures). The driving habits of the drivers behind both cars were a lot different, but during the photoshoot for this article, the new City still had about half a tank of fuel left while the older one was close to E! And both started at about the same fuel point.
Design
Yes yes, this is where you can bash us a little and we will graciously accept. Because everyone feels entitled to become a keyboard warrior these days, you could perhaps argue that there is very little that a trip to an accessory shop cannot fit. And you may be right. But we would like to beg to differ here. Simply because there is one mega difference that really drives us up a very slippery wall when it comes to the design of the new City.
Everything is nice and dandy from the side. The rims look great. And that rear too is much more proportionate now than ever before. Some do say that the new City looks too much like a BMW 3-Series, but looks are subjective. But then again, there really is nothing wrong with mimicking a successful formula, especially when a City starts to look and feel like a yesteryear Beemer.
But what in the world is up with that mega chrome strip up front that sits right above the grille and seems to merge into the bonnet? That elongated chrome strip of the previous City was bad enough, but now that it is bigger, bad has become worse! It could possibly blind on-coming traffic when the sun is at the right angle, or the driver of a car in front could suddenly be blinded when the sun suddenly glares him through the rear view mirror.
Of course, these are all probabilities, and no one has really reported of such things happening in the real world. But if there is anything that a trip to an accessory shop can fix, it would be the complete removal of that fat chrome lip up front.
We do however love the design of the headlights of the top of the line V-spec, which also work fantastically well in the dark.
Passenger Comfort
We have already touched on how comfortable the seats are in the new City V-spec. But spaciousness is the name of the game here. And the new Honda City is more spacious than before. And you really do feel it when you get inside. There’s more leg room, and the back rests are angled ever so slightly, so you sit more comfortably.
This is quite obvious considering that the new City is bigger than the car it replaces – it is longer, wider and lower. The wheelbase is the same yet there is more interior space for passengers. Curiously though, booth space is a few millimetres smaller than before, but in terms of booth space, the City still offers the most space when compared to its competitors.
Conclusion
The entire purpose of us writing this article is because there are people out there who simply swear by the Honda City. And some love it so much that some families buy two or more of it. This writer’s family being among them, and knows of a few more families that do as well.
We never understood such buying behaviour because ‘variety is, and always will be, the spice of life’, and if you need more than one or two cars, you simply do not buy two of the same. Why not buy different cars and swap among family members so you never get bored of driving the same car?
But that’s just us.
So if your family swears by the Honda City – then trade up to the new one. Or if you are looking for a car in this segment, then the new City will not disappoint. And there has never been a better time than now.
