Of the seven Special Edition models to be given away to celebrate 1 million sales of new vehicles since Honda Malaysia was established, the Honda BR-V is the youngest one in the Malaysian range. It was introduced in early 2017 and was specially developed by Honda R&D Asia Pacific Co., Ltd. (HRAP) for the ASEAN market and is the first HRAP model to be introduced in Malaysia.
The BR-V (the initials stand for Bold Runabout Vehicle) was developed in anticipation of demand for SUV and utility vehicles growing in this region. Taking into consideration usage requirements in the different markets, it was found that a bigger space was desired, and as the space within created was larger, the BR-V could be configured as a 7-seater.
Class-leading in 3 areas
The BR-V is class-leading in boot volume (223 litres with all seats up, 539 litres when 3rd row seats are folded), engine output (120 ps) and ground clearance (201 mm). It also has a maximum 5-star rating from ASEAN NCAP which evaluated its safety and results of a crash-test.
Powering the compact crossover is a 1.5L i-VTEC engine coupled to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) which was developed with Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology to improve fuel economy and deliver better driving performance.
1.5V variant for Special Edition
Two variants of the BR-V are assembled in Malaysia – the 1.5E and 1.5V – with prices starting from RM86,726 (without insurance). Honda Malaysia chose the 1.5V variant for its ‘1 Million Dreams’ Special Edition and the exclusive unit (money cannot buy) is finished in white with a black roof, like the other Special Edition models.
The other exclusive features are the black grille with a red highlight line with red lines on each door mirror as well. The 16-inch alloy wheels, finished in black, also have the red highlights and of course, there are exclusive emblems on either side of the bodywork.
The BR-V 1.5V comes standard with leather upholstery and just for the Special Edition, ‘1 Million Dreams’ wording is embossed on the headrests, while the leather-wrapped steering wheel has red stitching and a centre mark at the 12 o’clock position. A small ‘1 Million Dreams’ plaque is also affixed to the dashboard to identify this very exclusive model.
The seats can be folded separately to create various cabin layouts according to usage. The second row of seats can slide forward and back to adjust legroom, as well as tumble forward for easy access to the third row. The third row seats can also be folded and tumbled forward to create a larger space for cargo.
Additional giveaways
Additionally, as part of the ‘1 Million Dreams’ campaign, there is the Shopee Coins Giveaway for those who participate in any of the ‘1 Million Dreams’ activities on honda.com.my or at an authorized Honda dealer! Up to 1,000,000 Shopee Coins are being given out to 150 weekly winners.
The lucky winner of the BR-V Special Edition will be announced at a Grand Finale scheduled to be held at the end of this month at Stadium Bukit Jalil on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur. The Grand Finale Fun Fair will be on March 27 and 28 and entrance is free. Do remember that with the pandemic still on, you have to observe the Standard Operating Procedures when at the site and do remember to bring along and use a facemask.
Visit any authorized Honda dealership nationwide to participate. Locations of dealerships can be found at www.honda.com.my.
Being developed specially for the ASEAN market, the BR-V had its world premiere at a motorshow in Indonesia. It was progressively introduced in various markets in the region, with the Malaysian-assembled version launched in early 2017.Response to the BR-V surprised Honda Malaysia as over 4,000 bookings were received within a space of just 3 weeks following the launch. That number was 5 times greater than the target that had been set for each month. Nevertheless, with adjustment of the production schedule at the Melaka plant, waiting times were maintained at 1 to 2 months. After the first 6 months, Honda Malaysia reported impressive sales of close to 11,000, exceeding its annual sales target of 10,000 units for the model.In June last year, a refreshed BR-V (shown above) was introduced. As it was during the pandemic period, the launch campaign had the theme of ‘Be Kind With BR-V’, dedicated to support COVID-19 relief programmes. Between June 2 and August 31, 2020, for every unit of the new BR-V sold, Honda Malaysia donated a portion of the proceeds to the relief programmes.
The Honda CR-V helped to create the modern SUV segment in the mid-1990s, starting a trend that continuously enlarged the segment to this day. Along the way, a new generation of SUVs have appeared with more car-like styling as well – while still retaining the aspects of SUVs that people like. This gave rise to terms like ‘crossover’ and the association more with the ‘urban jungle’ than the natural jungle.
Honda took note of this trend and developed the HR-V (also known as the Vezel in Japan and some markets) to meet new tastes. This had a fresh, sleek design and Honda described it as having ‘the dynamic qualities of an SUV, the elegance of a coupe and the functionality of a minivan’.
RS variant chosen for Special Edition
Naturally, the HR-V would be included in the exclusive line-up of Special Edition models to celebrate the cumulative sales of 1 million vehicles since Honda Malaysia was established. A single unit of the HR-V RS variant was given the Special Edition treatment which consists of a dual-tone finish with a white body and black roof. At the front, the black grille has a red highlight line running across the lower section and there are also similar red lines on each door mirror. The alloy wheels, finished in black, also have the red highlights and of course, there are exclusive emblems on either side of the bodywork.
Inside the spacious cabin of the HR-V are exclusive features like the ‘1 Million Dreams’ wording embossed on the leather front seats, while the leather-wrapped steering wheel has red stitching and a centre mark to indicate to the driver where the front wheels are pointed. A small ‘1 Million Dreams’ plaque is also affixed to the dashboard to identify this very exclusive model.
The HR-V RS variant used for the ‘1 Million Dreams’ Special Edition is powered by a 1.8-litre SOHC i-VTEC engine with an output of 142 ps/172 Nm, delivered to the front wheels via a CVT. As the top variant in the HR-V range, the alloy wheels are 18 inches in diameter and fitted with 225/50 tyres.
Like the top variants of the other Honda models, the HR-V Special Edition has many premium features – cruise control, keyless entry and pushbutton engine start/stop, paddle shifters, power adjustment for the driver’s seat, electric parking brake and automatic air-conditioning system.
Multi-utility space
The rear half of the cabin has a multi-utility space with three modes to suit different purposes. The layout can be configured for carrying tall items (like the ULTRA Seat in the Jazz), long items or large items. And if it’s just people in the back seat, the amount of space available for legroom is class-leading.
Up to 6 airbags are installed at the front and sides of the cabin, ready to deploy and providing cushioning during a severe impact. The airbags supplement the G-CON structure which absorbs impact energy before it can reach the occupants to cause injuries. Honda LaneWatch, a system for monitoring the blind zone on the left side of the car using a camera, is also provided.
Only one person gets to own the HR-V Special Edition but you can also own a HR-V, and you have a choice of three variants with 1.8-litre engines as well as the HR-V Hybrid, with prices starting from RM104,000 (excluding insurance).
Additional giveaways
Additionally, as part of the ‘1 Million Dreams’ campaign, there is the Shopee Coins Giveaway for those who participate in any of the ‘1 Million Dreams’ activities on honda.com.my or at an authorised Honda dealer! Up to 1,000,000 Shopee Coins are being given out to 150 weekly winners.
Visit any authorised Honda dealership nationwide to participate. Locations of dealerships can be found at www.honda.com.my.
The lucky winners will be announced at a Grand Finale scheduled to be held by the end of this month at Stadium Bukit Jalil on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur. The Grand Finale Fun Fair will be on March 27 and 28 and entrance is free. Do remember that with the pandemic still on, you have to observe the Standard Operating Procedures when at the site and do remember to bring along and use a facemask.
The unexpectedly high record bookings have led to a 4-month waiting period, and Honda Malaysia’s plant in Melaka had to revise its production scheduling to try to deliver more vehicles. Fortunately, its No.2 line was in operation already and the flexible production schedule enabled revisions to be made so that customers did not have to wait long.Since being launched in Malaysia 6 years ago, around 100,000 units have been sold. Last year, the HR-V was the third best-selling model for Honda Malaysia, accounting for 17% of its total sales. It also maintained its leadership position in the Non-National Compact SUV segment with a 73% market share.
When the Honda Fit – the name for the Jazz in Japan – was launched in 2001, it arrived at a time when consumer tastes were changing. Traditional sedans were no longer appealing and motorists in Japan wanted compact and eco-friendly cars. The Fit proved to be just the sort of car they preferred and not surprisingly, the model outsold the Corolla which had been the bestselling car in Japan year after year since it was launched in 1966. It even became ‘Japan Car of the Year’ for 2001, strong validation of the product concept being right for the times.
The Fit was also right for other markets where small was increasingly preferred as urban conditions became more and more congested. Honda exported the car to many countries, including the big US market. In Malaysia, where it was introduced as the Jazz, its entry was modest as it was an imported CBU model but it still attracted interest due to its practical and innovative features.
Eventually, Honda Malaysia began assembling the model as strong demand was evident, and it has remained a popular hatchback in the local line-up. The current generation in the Malaysian market is the third generation which was launched in 2017. From the line-up of four variants, Honda Malaysia has chosen the Jazz 1.5V for the ‘1 Million Dreams’ Special Edition that will be given away at the end of this month.
Specially for frontliners
In the past year, the heroes in the fight against COVID-19 have been the frontliners, especially those in the healthcare areas. As a way of saying ‘Thank You‘ to these Malaysians for their dedication to protect us and save lives, the Jazz ‘1 Million Dreams’ Special Edition is reserved for a winner from this group that includes those in the Health, Defence, Public Service and Education sectors. They are invited to submit entries and select the ‘FRONTLINERS’ category to identify themselves when filling out their details.
Like the other six Special Edition models, this exclusive Jazz comes in a dual-tone finish with a white body and black roof. At the front, the black grille has a red highlight line running across it and there are also similar red lines on each door mirror. At the rear end too, a red highlight has been added below the bumper. The alloy wheels, finished in black, also have the red highlights.
The Jazz has a spacious platform which provides a roomy interior. Exclusive features within are the ‘1 Million Dreams’ wording embossed on the half-leather front seats, while the leather-wrapped steering wheel has red stitching and a centre mark to indicate to the driver where the front wheels are pointed (which may not always be where the nose is pointed!).
Innovative ULTRA Seats
Right from the start, the Jazz has had ULTRA Seats in the rear and the concept for these seats came about after the leader of the development team and his members spent long hours observing how people use their cars, especially when out shopping. And by simply making it possible to fold the rear seats upwards against the backrests, a taller space was created which would be useful when carrying tall items like plants.
At the same time, the seating layout was also made more versatile with additional variations, including one that allowed stretching out to relax. The interior designers also thoughtfully added grocery hooks to the underside of the ULTRA Seats.
Premium features
With the Jazz 1.5V variant, there are a number of premium features such as paddle shifters, touch controls for the air-conditioning system, engine pushstart button and keyless entry, and cruise control.
The occupants are well protected not just by the tough G-CON structure but also airbags on the front and sides. Active safety systems such as ABS, Vehicle Stability Assist, Brake Assist and Hillstart Assist are provided to ensure that the driver can avoid accidents or maintain control in slippery conditions.
The engine is the familiar SOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder unit which produces 120 ps/145 Nm, output that will enable spirited performance as the Jazz has a kerb weight of 1,099 kgs. The Jazz was the first Honda model to introduce the CVT in the Malaysian market and this transmission type remains in use as it promotes fuel efficiency.
While you can’t buy the Jazz Special Edition, there are three variants of the model that you can choose from, with prices starting from RM72,511 (excluding insurance). A MUGEN package is also available, along with optional packages to enhance functionality or looks.
Additional giveaways
Additionally, as part of the ‘1 Million Dreams’ campaign, there is the Shopee Coins Giveaway for those who participate in any of the ‘1 Million Dreams’ activities on honda.com.my or at an authorised Honda dealer! Up to 1,000,000 Shopee Coins are being given out to 150 weekly winners.
The lucky winners will be announced at a Grand Finale scheduled to be held by the end of this month.
Visit any authorised Honda dealership nationwide to participate. Locations of dealerships can be found at www.honda.com.my.
The Jazz, also known as the Fit in Japan, was marketed in its home market with the theme of ‘Small is the New Big’, and appealed to a new generation of consumers. It was Japan Car of the Year for 2001 and its successor again won the title in 2007. It appeared in Malaysia in April 2003 as a CBU model imported from Thailand.ULTRA Seat concept in the Jazz was one of the clever ideas it had which created more room for carrying tall items like plants.The Jazz grew in popularity after the second generation was launched in 2008, offering the nippiness of the hatchback and versatility for many usage requirements. In 2012, local assembly of the Jazz Hybrid (shown above) began at Honda Malaysia’s plant in Melaka and it was the first hybrid model ever assembled in the country. The sporty side of the Jazz was also demonstrated when it was used by the Honda Malaysia team in local races.The current Jazz, when launched in 2017, came with Honda’s new advanced Sport Hybrid i-DCD system and Malaysia was the only country outside Japan to introduce this powertrain.
The Honda City has been Honda Malaysia’s bestselling model for many years and certainly deserves to be one of the very exclusive ‘1 Million Dreams’ Special Edition models. Originally conceived as Honda’s ‘Asian Car’ to provide a new entry-level model when the Civic had risen aware from that position, the City had the right formula in both price and design to win more and more customers.
It was assembled in Malaysia right from the first generation in the closing years of the 1990s. The early generation was assembled in Johor at the Oriental Assemblers factory and then assembly was transferred to Melaka when the Honda Malaysia plant began operations in 2003.
Commenting on the success of the model, Honda Malaysia’s Managing Director & CEO, Toichi Ishiyama, said: “The City has proven to be an important model for Honda Malaysia, a favourite among many Malaysians for its spaciousness, practicality and safety features.”
Although the City was already being sold before 2001, Honda Malaysia records sales of the City from that year and according to the company’s data, cumulative sales have been 351,000 units. Of that number, the 4th Generation City launched in 2014 accounted for more than 205,000 units and kept the model in a leadership position in its segment.
The fifth generation was launched last October and as with previous generations, there was a long list of people waiting for it. Some 5,000 people put their money down to book a unit; although they knew what it looked like, they did not have a chance to try it first. But as with other Honda models, the brand has become so trusted that it was not a matter of waiting to hear if there were any negative experiences by new owners, as can be the case with some brands. Those who liked what they saw and read about were confident enough to pay the deposit to be among the first to own one.
For the ‘1 Million Dreams’ Special Edition, one unit of the latest City 1.5V variant has been given additional features. The features are identical for all the Special Edition models: on the exterior are a Dual-Tone finish (white bodywork with black roof), red highlight line running across the black grille, red highlight line on each door mirror, red highlights on wheels with a black finish and of course, ‘1 Million Dreams’ emblems on either side of the bodywork.
Exclusive interior fittings
Inside the cabin which has been noted for its spaciousness, the leather upholstered front seats have an embossed ‘1 Million Dreams’ signature as well as a plaque on the dashboard. The steering wheel is also leather-wrapped and has sporty red stitching as well as a red mark at the 12 o’clock position. This little detail is usually found on sportscars or drivers put it so that there is a visual indicator to where the front wheels are pointing. Every owner of a Special Edition model will also receive an exclusive Honda Leather Pouch.
The City 1.5V uses a 1.5-litre i-VTEC engine with a DOHC and 16-valve cylinder head and a PGM-FI fuel delivery system. Output from this proven engine, the most powerful in its class, is 121 ps/145 Nm which goes through a CVT to the front wheels. While offering zippy performance, the engine also runs economically, with factory tests indicating that it will go almost 19 kms a litre. Drivers can stretch the litre further by using the ECON mode which prioritises fuel-saving.
Features from more expensive models
Though it is priced from RM86,561.45 (without insurance), the City has many features that are usually enjoyed by those who buy more expensive cars. For instance, the engine and air-conditioner can be started remotely and unlocking the doors is keyless along with starting/stopping the engine. The 1.5V variant also comes with cruise control and paddle shifters on the steering wheel.
With its strong G-FORCE CONTROL (G-CON) body structure, the latest City has been awarded the maximum of 5 stars from ASEAN NCAP. It comes with a comprehensive range of active and passive safety systems and features that will help the driver to avoid an accident and reduce injuries if the accident does occur. ISOFIX points are provided at the rear seat so owners can install compatible childseats which are now required by law.
Being aware of the surroundings is important for safe driving and besides a Multi-Angle Reverse Cameras, the new City 1.5V has Honda LaneWatch. This is an innovative camera-based system which provides the driver with a real-time view of the blind spot along the left side of the car. The advantage of this system is that the driver does not need to turn the head so much to see the traffic situation (unlike having to turn a lot to see the door mirror). The LaneWatch display automatically comes on whenever the signal indicator is activated.
Being feature-packed, Honda Malaysia believes the new City is a game-changer in its class. While you cannot buy the ‘1 Million Dreams’ Special Edition which will be given free to one lucky Malaysian, you can choose from 4 variants to purchase, including the recently-launched City RS with the e:HEV hybrid powertrain. Prices start from RM74,191 and go up to RM105,950 (without insurance). There are also Modulo accessories available which are specially designed for the new City.
How to own this exclusive car
To own the City ‘1 Million Dreams’ Special Edition, you need to submit as many entries as possible. The entries can be obtained by participating in various activities during the campaign period which ends on March 24, 2021. If you have the Honda Touch app, you can get 5x entries.
Each owner of a Special Edition model will also receive this exclusive Honda Leather Pouch.
Additional giveaways
Additionally, as part of the ‘1 Million Dreams’ campaign, there is the Shopee Coins Giveaway for those who participate in any of the ‘1 Million Dreams’ activities on honda.com.my or at an authorised Honda dealer! Up to 1,000,000 Shopee Coins are being given out to 150 weekly winners.
The lucky winners will be announced at a Grand Finale scheduled to be held by the end of this month.
Visit any authorised Honda dealership nationwide to participate. Locations of dealerships can be found at www.honda.com.my.
The City was originally a compact hatchback Honda model in the 1980s which was only produced between 1981 and 1994 in two generations. The City which people know today was a new sedan launched in 1996. It was Honda’s ‘Asian Car’, developed to offer a more affordable Honda model to developing markets where the Civic’s price had moved it beyond being an ‘entry-level’ model. The hub for City production has been Thailand, although it is also assembled in some other countries like Malaysia where a high level of localization helps to make the price more attractive.
With each generation, the City has gained more and more features and more advanced technologies, including hybrid technologies. The latest City RS e:HEV sold in Malaysia (below) now has Honda SENSING and a new advanced 2-motor hybrid system using an intelligent Multi-Mode Drive (i-MMD). This is the first time in the Asia & Oceania region that Honda is introducing its e:HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle).
The third model which is part of the very exclusive money-cannot-buy ‘1 Million Dreams’ Special Edition range is the Honda CR-V. This SUV is the third oldest model line in Honda Malaysian’s current line-up, so it would have contributed significantly to the sales volume of Honda in Malaysia. It’s been around since the first generation which came out in the mid-1990s and, along with Toyota’s RAV4, established a new market segment.
The CR-V was initially imported in CBU (completely built-up) form and sold quite well as it offered passenger car-like comfort and driving character with the functional image of a SUV. The early generations even came with a picnic table cleverly stowed in the floor of the boot.
When production began at Honda Malaysia’s plant in Melaka in 2003, the first model to be assembled was the CR-V, which was then in its second generation. To commemorate the model’s special place in the plant’s history, a Melaka Edition was created for sale to the public in limited numbers.
Now, for the ‘1 Million Dreams’ campaign to celebrate sales of 1 million vehicles since Honda Malaysia was established, a special version of the CR-V will be given away. Like the other Special Edition models, there is only one CR-V to be given away free to a lucky customer. This comes with exclusive features on the exterior are a Dual-Tone finish (white bodywork with black roof), red highlight line running across the black grille, red highlight line on each door mirror, red highlights on wheels with a black finish and of course, the ‘1 Million Dreams’ emblems.
Inside the spacious cabin, the leather upholstered front seats have an embossed ‘1 Million Dreams’ signature as well as a plaque on the dashboard. The steering wheel is also leather-wrapped and has sporty red stitching as well as a red mark at the 12 o’clock position, a visual indicator can help the driver to know where the wheels are pointing – which can be useful on slippery off-road tracks. Every owner of a Special Edition model will also receive an exclusive Honda Leather Pouch.
Earth Dreams engine
The CR-V Special Edition is powered by a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder VTEC engine with a CVT. Though it seems small, with Honda Earth Dreams Technology and turbocharging, the engine can produce up to 193 ps, with the maximum of 243 Nm of torque available from 2,000 rpm to as high as 5,000 rpm. That sort of output is even greater than bigger engines and the advantage, besides saving weight, is that fuel consumption can be up to 14.3 kms per litre. With a full fuel tank of 57 litres, that can mean a range of at least 800 kms.
Many people buy a SUV for its high seating position which gives a commanding view, and the ground clearance of 208 mm will give more confidence when going over uneven or even flooded roads.
The version chosen for the Special Edition is the top version and as such, it comes with many premium features as well as lots of convenience features. You can even start the engine and air-conditioner from a distance to cool down the interior on a hot day. And while the level of sound insulation is quite generous to prevent external noises from entering, there is also an Active Noise Control system to cancel out noises at irritating frequencies.
First with Honda SENSING
Besides being the first model to be assembled at Honda Malaysia’s plant, the CR-V is also the first model with Honda SENSING. This suite of driver assistance systems was introduced together with the 5th generation of the model in 2017. Honda SENSING has eight active systems, most of which use a camera and work with each other, to help the driver avoid accidents. The system also has Autonomous Emergency Braking which means that if a collision is likely to occur (as detected by the sensors) but the driver does not take the right action to prevent it, the brakes will come on automatically. Even if it cannot prevent contact (due to the road being slippery), the earlier braking action will reduce the speed and could result in less severe damage, reducing repair costs.
The CR-V was the first model to introduce Honda SENSING in Malaysia when the current generation was launched in 2017.
There’s also Honda LaneWatch, an innovative blindspot monitoring system that uses a camera instead of sensors on the body. The camera captures a real-time image of the area along the left side of the car and shows it on the display screen on the dashboard. Active only when the left signal is on, the display allows the driver to spot other vehicles coming up and close. As the display screen is positioned in the middle, the driver also does not have to turn the head so much, which would be the case if having to look at the left door mirror.
You won’t be able to buy the CR-V ‘1 Million Dreams’ Special Edition but if you want to own a CR-V, there are three variants, two of which have the Earth Dreams turbocharged engine. Pricing ranges from RM140,000 to about RM163,000 (without insurance).
All the different ways you can get entries to submit and if you are lucky, you will be the owner of the money-cannot-buy CR-V Special Edition.
If you really want to own the CR-V Special Edition, then you will have to submit as many entries as possible and if you have the Honda Touch app, you can get 5x entries. Additionally, as part of the ‘1 Million Dreams’ campaign, there is the ‘Shopee Coins Giveaway’ for those who participate in any of the ‘1 Million Dreams’ activities on honda.com.my or at an authorised Honda dealer. Up to 1,000,000 Shopee Coins are being given out to 150 weekly winners.
The campaign ends on March 24, 2021 and the lucky winners will be announced at a Grand Finale scheduled to be held by the end of this month.
Visit any authorised Honda dealership nationwide to participate. Locations of dealerships can be found at www.honda.com.my.
The CR-V (first generation shown above) arrived in Malaysia in the second half of the 1990s and attracted a lot of interest due to its ‘lifestyle’ image. It was easy to drive for a SUV, offered extra carrying space and with the Real-Time AWD system in the drivetrain, it had all-wheel drive for extra grip in slippery conditions. Local assembly began with the second generation at the newly opened Honda Malaysia plant in Melaka. Thereafter, the CR-V has been a major model for Honda in this market, maintaining leadership in its segment for many years. In 2017, it was also the first model in the Malaysian market to have the Honda SENSING driver-assistance system.First Honda model assembled at the newly opened plant in Melaka was the second generation of the CR-V.Since being assembled locally, every generation of the CR-V has been a leader in its segment.
Among the seven Special Edition models that Honda Malaysia has prepared to celebrate passing the 1 million vehicle milestone for locally-assembled vehicles from its plant in Melaka, the Accord is one of the older model lines. In fact, like the Civic, the model has been assembled in Malaysia since the first generation, and it has contributed significantly to enhancing the brand image as well as volume growth over the years.
Just one lucky customer will be the owner of the money-cannot-buy Accord Special Edition offered in the ‘1 Million Dreams’ campaign that is now on. It ends on March 24, 2021 and there are 6 ways which the public can obtain entries for submission to be in the running for one of the seven exclusive models.
Like the other Special Edition models, the Accord Special Edition comes with exclusive features on the exterior – a Dual-Tone finish (with black roof), red highlight line on the black grille, red highlight line on the door mirrors, red highlights on the 18-inch alloy wheels with a black finish and of course, the ‘1 Million Dreams’ emblem.
Inside the executive sedan, the leather upholstered front seats have an embossed ‘1 Million Dreams’ signature as well as a plaque on the dashboard. The steering wheel is also leather-wrapped and has sporty red stitching as well as a red mark at the 12 o’clock position, a visual indicator often found on sportscars to keep the driver aware of where the wheels are pointing.
The Accord Special Edition has the trim and equipment level of the flagship variant, the Accord 1.5 TC-P which has a retail price of around RM188,000. Although earlier generations had larger engines – up to 3.5 litres – today’s Accord uses an a small powerplant which has been developed in line with the industry’s downsizing trends. With Earth Dreams technology and turbocharging, the 4-cylinder DOHC VTEC engine can produce up to 201 ps of power, with 268 Nm of torque coming in from as low as 1,600 rpm. While the top speed is at 190 km/h, fuel consumption can be up to almost 16 kms per litre (factory testing) with a CVT.
Besides having all the features that make it suitable as an executive sedan, the Accord Special Edition also has many safety systems to protect the occupants. Top of the list is Honda SENSING, an integrated suite of active safety systems that help the driver to avoid accidents. In some cases, the systems may act autonomously, activating Automatic Emergency Braking to prevent a collision, if the driver does not take appropriate action in time.
There are also systems that provide monitoring, eg the Driver Attention Monitor which will detect if the driver is drowsy by the way the car is being controlled. There is also a monitor for tyre pressures and the driver will be alerted if there is sudden deflation.
A small camera on the left door mirror provided a real-time view along that side of the car, acting as a blindspot monitor called Honda LaneWatch. The view is displayed on the screen on the dashboard, appearing whenever the left signal is activated. In all lighting condition, the driver will be able to spot other vehicles nearby, avoiding a potential accident.
The Accord Special Edition also comes with a Multi-View Camera System which provides 360-degree coverage. The driver is able to see the ground situation on all sides of the car, a great help when parking in a tight spot.
Each owner of a Special Edition model will also receive this exclusive Honda Leather Pouch.
The lucky winners will be announced at a Grand Finale scheduled to be held by the end of this month.
Visit any authorized Honda dealership nationwide to participate. Locations of dealerships can be found at www.honda.com.my.
The Accord was the second global model to be assembled in Malaysia, initially at Oriental Assemblers in Johor. The first generation, available in hatchback and sedan bodystyles, was assembled from the late 1970s. Like the Civic, the hatchback was eventually discontinued as sales were low. The seventh generation was the first one to be assembled at Honda Malaysia’s own plant in Melaka from 2004. In its time, the Accord has had a leadership position among executive sedans, contributing to Honda’s strong presence in the market.
Since its establishment in 2000, Honda Malaysia’s position in Malaysia has constantly grown, with volumes and market share increasing year after year. In 2003, it began assembly operations at its own plant in Melaka, with the firm commitment to use as much local content to meet the government’s expectations of the local industry.
New models were added each year and today, Malaysians have a wide variety of models, all assembled locally, enabling their pricing to be attractive. The popularity of Honda vehicles has never been higher with the brand maintaining its leading position in the non-national category.
This year, the cumulative volume of vehicles assembled at the Melaka plant and sold throughout the country passed the 1 million mark, 18 years after the first vehicle rolled rolled out. To commemorate this significant milestone, Honda Malaysia is having the ‘1 Million Dreams Campaign’ this month to show its appreciation to customers for their support in this achievement.
During the campaign period, which will run until March 24, 2021, the company will be having various activities and will also be giving away 7 vehicles to lucky customers. These are Special Editions with very exclusive features – money cannot buy – on each of them. The Special Editions are of each of the current locally assembled models – the BR-V, Jazz, City, HR-V, Civic, Accord and CR-V.
The exclusive features on the exterior are a Dual-Tone finish (with black roof), red highlight line on the black grille, red highlight line on the door mirrors, red highlights on wheels with a black finish and of course, the ‘1 Million Dreams’ emblem.
Inside, the leather upholstered front seats have an embossed ‘1 Million Dreams’ signature as well as a plaque on the dashboard. The steering wheel is also leather-wrapped and has sporty red stitching as well as a red mark at the 12 o’clock position, a visual indicator often found on sportscars to keep the driver aware of where the wheels are pointing.
Each owner of a Special Edition model will also receive this exclusive Honda Leather Pouch.
Other than the cosmetic exclusive features, the technical aspects of the cars are similar to the top variants of each model. In the case of the Civic Special Edition, this would be the 1.5 TC-P with a turbocharged 4-cylinder VTEC engine. This 1.5-litre engine, developed with Earth Dreams Technology, produces 173 ps with 220 Nm of torque, more than the 1.8-litre i-VTEC engine available in another Civic variant.
With a CVT delivering power smoothly and efficiently to the front wheels, the Civic is capable of a top speed of 200 km/h after getting to 100 km/h within 8.2 seconds from taking off. Stopping power from high speeds is assured with disc brakes on all four wheels, the front ones being ventilated for fade-free performance.
The Civic comes with an extensive list of convenience features that include keyless entry with pushstart button for starting/stopping the engine, paddle shifters, cruise control, and 8-way adjustment for the driver’s seat. The engine can also be started from a distance, allowing the air-conditioner to be activated to cool down the interior before getting in.
Advanced engineering is used to protect the passengers in the event of an accident. Besides the G-CON collision safety body technology designed to withstand collisions with vehicles of other sizes, the Civic also has Honda SENSING to help the driver avoid accidents. Honda SENSING has been introduced in recent years, bringing an integrated suite of active systems for drive assistance. These include Automatic Emergency Braking which activates if the driver doesn’t take the appropriate action if a collision might occur.
Besides the rearview camera which shows different angles, the Civic also comes with Honda LaneWatch, an innovative feature which functions as a Blind Spot monitor for the left side of the car. Instead of just a sensor and warning light or icon, the system gives the driver a real-time image of the area along the side of the car (when the left signal is activated). The image, captured by a small camera on the door mirror, is displayed on the monitor in the middle of the dashboard. This reduces the amount of turning that the driver’s head must make and the image also gives a better idea of what sort of hazard might be in the blind spot.
While the Civic Special Edition cannot be purchased, there are three variants of the Civic available for those who want to own this model. Priced from around RM114,000 – RM140,000, they come with a choice of two engines.
As for the Civic Special Edition, there are 6 ways (shown on the chart below) for you to become the owner of the exclusive model. Basically, you get a number of entries for certain Honda-related activities and obviously, the more entries you can get and submit, the greater your chances of winning. If you are Honda Touch (a smartphone app) user, you get 5x bonus entries so it’s worthwhile to download the app.
The lucky winners will be announced at a Grand Finale scheduled to be held by the end of this month.
Visit any authorised Honda dealership nationwide to participate. Locations of dealerships can be found at www.honda.com.my.
Although Honda began assembly in Malaysia in the early 1970s with the N360 model, it was the Civic that was the first global model assembled locally towards the end of the same decade, initially at the Oriental Assemblers plant in Johor. The Civic Sedan which joined the hatchback in the 1980s, quickly became a popular model and eventually, Honda Malaysia ceased producing the hatchback locally. When Honda Malaysia set up its own plant, the Civic Sedan was added to the line and in 2007, it had the honour of being the 100,000th vehicle (below) to roll out from the plant in Melaka.
When the fifth generation of the City was introduced in Malaysia last year, four variants were presented – but only three were in the showrooms. The fourth – which was the flagship City RS e:HEV – was not available then and was this eagerly awaited because it promised to be a game-changer in its segment (as some other Honda models have been in the past). In any case, even without the City RS, the other three variants sold briskly with more than 13,100 units already delivered, out of over 20,000 bookings received to date.
Now the City RS is starting to roll out of the Honda plant on Melaka and first deliveries are commencing to waiting customers. The price has also been announced as RM105,950.45 (excluding insurance and sales tax, the latter exemption only until June 30, 2021). Malaysia is the first country to have the variant, a reflection of the importance of this market to the Japanese carmaker.
“Today we are pleased to announce the official price for the All-New City RS e:HEV at with an overall package that is beyond the B-segment, complete with Next Generation Advanced Technology, Honda SENSING as well as Honda CONNECT, class-leading innovative features and a sporty exterior. I would like to convey my sincere gratitude to our customers who have booked the RS e:HEV variant and waited patiently for the official price announcement,“ said Honda Malaysia’s Managing Director & CEO, Toichi Ishiyama.
Mr. Ishiyama said that the new City, being the leader in the non-national B-segment, was a strong contributor to Honda maintaining its No.1 position in the non-national segment for the sixth consecutive year.
Three colour choices are available for the City RS e:HEV. This is Platinum White Pearl and the others are Passion Red Pearl and Modern Steel Metallic.
Sportier exterior features
The exterior of the City RS is strongly differentiated from the other variants with the Gloss Black Grille and lower grille design as well as the diffuser integrated in the rear bumper. It also comes with a Gloss Black Bootlid Spoiler and the door mirror housings are finished Gloss Black as well.
Other standard equipment includes LED Headlights Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), Foglights and Taillights as well as Dual-Tone 16-inch Alloy Wheels.
2-motor hybrid system
The hybrid powertrain is something new too with a highly efficient 2-motor system working with the familiar 1.5-litre DOHC i-VTEC intelligent Multi-Mode Drive (i-MMD) system. Referred to as the e:HEV system, it delivers up to 109 ps with a class-leading 253 Nm of torque, guaranteeing strong acceleration.
Besides the efficiency of the Electric Continuously Variable Transmission (e-CVT), the City RS runs in three different driving modes – EV Drive, Hybrid Drive and Engine Drive – depending on conditions. There are also Deceleration Selector Paddles that enable the driver to activate power regeneration and decelerate the car without stepping on the brake pedal.
Advanced infotainment features
Inside, there are high-quality textures and a sophisticated premium all around the spacious cabin. Displays include a 7-inch Interactive Thin Film Transistor (TFT) meter and an 8-inch colour touchscreen that is like a sophisticated ‘command centre’ from which the driver uses Honda CONNECT and other infotainment features. The system has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to enable interfacing with compatible smartphones which means favourite and functional apps can be transferred and accessed from the dashboard.
In keeping with its sportier image, the City RS comes with Sport Pedal Pads and the Ultrasuede seats have red stitching (also used in other trim areas).
Smart telematics technology
The City RS e:HEV is the first model in Honda Malaysia’s range to offer innovative Honda CONNECT technology which is only just rolling out in a small number of markets globally. Again, like the e:HEV system, Honda has put Malaysia as one of the early markets to receive this new technology. Honda CONNECT utilizes smart telematics technology to bring connectivity to a whole new level for owners and provides services 24/7. With this technology, safety, security and convenience are enhanced for a more enjoyable ownership experience.
Honda SENSING
Honda SENSING, the brand’s suite of driver-assistance systems, is now present on all models but the number of sub-systems (all integrated) varies. In the case of the City RS, there are seven systems:
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS)
Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS)
Road Departure Mitigation (RDM)
Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
Auto High Beam (AHB)
All the systems use a camera with a wide field of view installed in the grille to scan the road ahead. The camera imagery of road markings, road edges and other vehicles is analysed by a computer and appropriate action is taken to avoid or prevent accidents.
Additionally, there is also Honda LaneWatch, an innovative blindspot monitoring system which uses a small camera installed in the left door mirror. When the left signal is activated, the camera starts showing the view along the left side of the car on the display screen. The advantage of this approach is that the driver does not have to turn the head as much as looking at the door mirror. Just a slight turn towards the middle of the dashboard will be enough and the display has clear images day and night.
Though not new in this market, the Remote Engine Start is a first-in-segment feature that City owners get. It allows starting the engine while away from the car and even activating the air-conditioner to cool down the interior – definitely what we need in Malaysia. Needless to say, there is keyless entry and you don’t need a key to start/stop the engine. This variant also comes with an Electric Parking Brake which engages with an almost effortless a lift of a small tab.
Consistent 5-Star record
The City has already been tested by ASEAN NCAP which gave it the maximum of 5 stars. In fact, for the ASEAN NCAP Grand Prix Awards 2020, the model received the safety organisation’s Excellent Award for Consistent 5-Star performance which has been achieved since the third generation.
Interested in getting one? If you don’t wish to go to a showroom, you can use the New Car Pre-Booking Online Platform at prebook.honda.com.my to pre-book the car. However, if you want to view and test-drive first, you can visit any authorised Honda dealer nationwide. Locations can be found at www.honda.com.my or by calling Honda Malaysia’s Toll-Free number 1-800-88-2020.
‘Connected’ is a catchword in the auto industry today and advanced new technologies are providing this in cars. The advanced connectivity enables carmakers to provide even better safety, security and convenience and in many cases, interfacing with smartphones as well.
With Honda CONNECT, Honda Malaysia is bringing its latest innovative and advanced technology using smart Telematics Technology to allows the users to connect with their cars with a touch of their fingertips via a smartphone application.
New level of connectivity
Honda CONNECT is said to bring connectivity to a whole new level for owners. Key functions include Vehicle Diagnostics, Remote Applications, Security Applications, Vehicle Tracking and Support Services. All these are accessible from anywhere (via the smartphone), giving additional peace of mind.
“The technology within Honda CONNECT embodies Honda’s vision of value creation for mobility and people’s daily lives. Driven by the passion to share the 3 Joys of Honda through this intelligent and advanced technology, we seek to improve the daily lives of our customers with an innovative and advanced information platform that provides multiple benefits such as peace of mind, convenience and most importantly, fun!” said Honda Malaysia’s Managing Director & CEO, Toichi Ishiyama.
“This innovative technology is set to redefine safety, security and convenience for Honda car owners, allowing them to fully experience and enjoy their Honda car while enabling us to provide round-the-clock support to our valued customers,” said Mr. Ishiyama, adding that Honda CONNECT technology is available in the all-new City RS e:HEV variant which will be delivered to customers from this month.
Safety, Convenience and Security
Within the function of Safety and Security, Honda CONNECT is equipped with Automatic Collision Detection System, Security Alarm Detection, Speed Alert, Find My Car, Geo-Fencing Alert and Emergency Call. The Automatic Collision Detection System provides immediate support to the driver via Honda’s 24 Hours Roadside Assist Call Centre in case of an accident or airbag deployment in the car, when a notification will be sent to the Call Centre and emergency support will be dispatched.
Users of Honda CONNECT will also be notified via push notification on the application when collisions are detected with the car, and help will be at hand in case of any emergency.
The Security Alarm Detection feature remotely monitors the car situation from wherever the owner is and a push notification will be sent to the owner as well as the Call Centre when the car door, bootlid or bonnet are forcibly opened. This could mean attempted car theft and will trigger the security alarm accordingly. Ultimately, it offers the assurance of being able to park the car with more peace of mind.
Taking connectivity to another level, owners are also able to conveniently and safely locate their vehicle with the Find My Car function which allows owners to park with ease anywhere knowing that they can now easily locate their car on a map that is linked to their smartphone.
The Speed Alert and Geo-Fencing Alert function is to alert and notify the owner when the vehicle is being driven out of the set conditional parameters of driving radius and speed limit. The owner is also able to set the speed and location range in the system for monitoring purposes if the vehicle is being used by someone else. This will be a feature that parents will appreciate but their children who use the car might not…
Enhancing the ownership experience
Honda CONNECT also adds convenience to car ownership with multiple features such as Remote Vehicle Control; Car Status and Service Reminder; Vehicle Dashboard and Point of Interest search. One of the most useful and convenient functions is the Remote Vehicle Control function which is able to command remote locking/unlocking of the car even when the owner is away in order for a family member to retrieve an item left inside the cabin. An example might be if the owner is in Penang on business and the son wants to borrow the tollcard in the car but it is locked. With Honda CONNECT, the door can be unlocked to allow the son to get in and take the card, and then locked again – from Penang.
Similarly, owners can also request for the Call Centre to unlock the doors remotely if the car key is accidentally left inside. Besides the car lock, this intelligent feature can also remotely start or stop the car engine, switch on or off the air-conditioning to conveniently cool the cabin as well as remotely switch on the lights to help the owner locate the parked car at night.
Service support
The vehicle dashboard will show information such as Car Status and Service Reminder. This information will be connected and displayed on the Honda CONNECT application as alerts and reminders. An emergency call function enables users to quickly connect with emergency contacts who can provide prompt support and assistance in emergencies.
Driving behaviour and Trip logs can track and record driving styles with driving data from the connected vehicle. The Service Reminder function provides users with updates on all past service information including reminders for next required maintenance. Users can check Service History, Parts List and Estimation cost for future vehicle service as well as contact a Honda Dealer to make a service appointment.
Honda CONNECT is available in the new City RS e:HEV. Deliveries of this top variant of the City range start this month.
Remote Diagnostic Support provides initial assessment and necessary diagnosis by detect any issues with 11 main indicators. The Call Centre will arrange for necessary support, if requested by the owner. Similarly, with the other safety and security features, a push notification will be sent to users when trouble occurs with the vehicle.
The 11 indicators supported by the Remote Diagnostic Support are ABS, Supplemental Restraint System (airbags), Brake System, Engine Malfunction, Charging System, Vehicle Stability Assist System, Electric Power Steering System, Lane Keep Assist System, Adaptive Cruise Control System, Safety Support and Power System.
Social Network Services
Honda CONNECT also offers an advanced form of communication through the One-to-One Message function, Social Network Services (SNS) Posting and Customer Inquiry features. The One-to-One Message are reminders on service maintenance, insurance renewal and annual vehicle roadtax deadline, while SNS Posting allows users to share their vehicle trip logs with their community via social media. Additionally, the application connects and gives access for the owner to contact Honda directly for any enquiries as well as for Honda dealers to be in touch with customers.
More information on Honda CONNECT is available by calling Honda Malaysia’s Toll-Free number at 1-800-88-2020 or visiting www.honda.com.my.
Honda is taking us one step closer to the day when cars will no longer need our involvement to reach the destination. That day is some way down the road and progressive steps will have to be taken as autonomous technologies continue to advance. Basically, the steps will follow those for autonomous vehicles formulated by the American Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) and there are 5 ‘levels’, each increasing the degree of autonomy.
At this time, many vehicles can provide Level 2, which offers some autonomous operation such as adaptive cruise control where a safe gap will be automatically maintained from the vehicle in front. Automatic Emergency Braking is also a Level 2 capability where the vehicle’s brake will be activated automatically if the driver fails to respond correctly to an impending collision. Level 2 capability, which uses integrated Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), is moving down in the vehicle price ranges and even the recently-launched Perodua Ativa has it.
Honda now offers Level 3 in a version of its current Legend model which will be available for leasing only in Japan. As with the Clarity FCX Fuel Cell Vehicle produced between 2008 and 2014, Honda is only making a very limited number of units. Like the Clarity, of which only around 70 units were produced and leased, the same cautious approach is being taken for this advanced Legend variant. Honda says it will offer only 100 units for leasing, each based on a price of 11 million yen (about RM413,585). Limiting the model only to Japan will enable engineers to get to any car that has problems for quick examination, as compared to having to travel to other countries.
With Level 3, the amount of automation is greater and the driver can take his or her hands of the steering wheel for extended periods. With conditional automated driving in a limited area, it can perform more driving functions on its own. More advanced sensors constantly monitor the surroundings to ensure the car can proceed safely.
Honda SENSING Elite
The Level 3 capability is available with Honda SENSING Elite, the most advanced version of the Honda SENSING system that is already available in many Honda models sold in Malaysia. One of the ‘elite’ technologies is the Traffic Jam Pilot function, an advanced technology for which Honda has received type designation from the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT).
Traffic Jam Pilot technology enables the automated driving system to drive the vehicle, instead of the driver, under certain conditions such as when the vehicle is in congested traffic on an expressway. For vehicle control, the system determines the position of the vehicle and road conditions using data from 3-dimensional high-definition maps and the global navigation satellite system (which includes GPS), while detecting the vehicle’s surroundings using several external sensors that provide 360-degree input. The automated driving sensors are around the bodywork, subtly integrated into the body panels of the flagship sedan model for a clean appearance.
Locations of the many sensors on the bodywork. Inside the car, a camera also monitors the driver (below).
At the same time, the system tracks the condition of the driver using a monitoring camera mounted inside the vehicle. Based on this wide range of information, the main electronic control unit recognizes current conditions, anticipates future conditions and applies a high-level of control to acceleration, braking and steering inputs to assist the driver and achieve high-quality and smooth driving.
1.3 million kms of testing
To ensure maximum safety and reliability, approximately 10 million patterns of possible real-world situations were simulated during system development, and real-world demonstration tests were conducted on expressways for a total of approximately 1.3 million kms. Moreover, the system incorporates a redundant system design to ensure safety and reliability in the event of a problem with any of the devices.
For autonomous motoring to be possible, environmental conditions must also be safe. Lane markings, signage and traffic signals must be clear so that the car’s sensors can detect them and take the necessary actions.
Specific to this model are Honda SENSING Elite indicator lights with carefully selected and visible positions, sizes, colours, brightness and other details, as well as a 12.3-inch full-LCD graphic meter. The equipment provides an intuitive understanding of system operation status, current driving situation and any requests to transfer control back to the driver.
More advanced autonomous systems
While owners of the Civic and Accord would be familiar with Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow and Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), the Honda SENSING Elite system has Adaptive in Lane Driving which assists with the driving of the vehicle and following of vehicles detected ahead within a recognized lane. The system drives the vehicle along the middle of the detected lane while maintaining the pre-set vehicle speed.
Active Lane Change Assist with Hands-off Function is also available, and when activated, the system provides throttle, braking and steering inputs necessary to accomplish the lane change. However, the driver must confirm that this is safe to do so, and also activate the relevant turn indicator. If required and conditions are safe, the system can also guide the car to overtaken a slower vehicle.
While driving using the Adaptive in Lane Driving, if the car is in traffic congestion, the system (under certain slow speed conditions) can take control of acceleration, braking and steering while monitoring the surroundings on behalf of the driver. The system will drive, stop, and resume driving within the same lane while maintaining a proper following interval in accordance with the speed of the vehicle detected ahead.
The benefit to the driver is that while the car is under the control of the system, he or she can watch entertainment on the display screen or do other things, instead of having to stay focussed on the road and other vehicles. This will reduce fatigue and stress while driving in a traffic jam and it is likely that once a driver experiences the benefit, he may never want to be without it!
Emergency stopping
In the event that the driver falls asleep or just does not respond to multiple system requests for a handover (the transfer of control back to the driver), the system will initiate deceleration and stopping of the vehicle by making lane change(s) to the outermost lane or the shoulder of the road. The Traffic Jam Pilot/Hands-off Function will be disengaged, and the system will further urge the driver to respond to the handover request using visual, auditory and tactile alerts including escalated alarm sounds and vibration on the driver’s seatbelt.
If the driver continues to be unresponsive, the system will assist deceleration and stopping of the vehicle while alerting other vehicles around using hazard lights and the horn. When there is a road shoulder, the system assists deceleration and lane changes until the vehicle reaches the shoulder of the road for a safe stop.
To know more about Honda models, technology and services available in Malaysia, visit www.honda.com.my.
