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Honda Malaysia has announced a campaign aimed at rewarding customers who purchase and register a new Honda Civic Type-R! Between April 2018 and June 2018, these new Civic Type R owners will stand a chance to win an exclusive trip to Japan worth up to RM30,000 to experience the 2018 Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka Circuit in October.

The exclusive ‘Sprint to the Suzuka Circuit’ campaign will take place over a period of 3 months, from April 2018 to June 2018. Customers who purchase and register a new Civic Type R during the campaign period will need to fill up a form and answer 2 short questions at any of Honda’s 20 Sport Dealers* to be in the running to win the exclusive trip to Japan. 10 exclusive winners will be selected based on the creativity of their answers to the 2 short questions.

The 10 exclusive winners will each receive 2 Business Class flight tickets, 2 tickets to watch the 2018 Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix, 5 days 4 nights of accommodation in Japan and 2 official Honda merchandise, all worth up to RM30,000.

More on the Honda Civic Type-R…

The All-New Civic Type R which was launched in November 2017, is the world’s fastest front-wheel-drive (FWD) production car. Powered by a highly advanced 2.0-liter VTEC Turbocharged engine, producing 310PS and maximum torque of 400Nm, the All-New Civic Type R was engineered to deliver the most rewarding drive in the hot hatch segment, both on the road and on the race track. The 3-Way Driving Mode offered in the All-New Civic Type R – COMFORT, SPORT and +R allows drivers to experience different dynamic performance depending on the driving environment. The different modes provide drivers with both the race car-like performance and the desired comfort that is required as a daily commute car.

Besides being the most powerful Honda model ever sold in Malaysia, ownership of the All-New Civic Type R is very exclusive. Every Civic Type R sold is unique, each given its own special serial number plate positioned strategically on the center console – which stands as a constant reminder of the Civic Type R’s exclusivity. Since it was open for booking on 1 October 2017, Honda Malaysia has received more than 100 bookings for the All-New Civic Type R. The fully imported All-New Civic Type R is priced at RM320,000 on-the-road without insurance.

So, register now for your very own exclusive All-New Civic Type R! Customers can visit any of Honda’s 20 Sport Dealers* to place a booking for the All-New Civic Type R during the exclusive ‘Sprint to the Suzuka Circuit’ campaign to be in the running for the trip to Japan. For more information on the All-New Civic Type R, please call Honda’s Toll Free number at 1-800-88-2020 or log on to www.honda.com.my

*List of 20 Honda Sport Dealers

No Region Honda Sport Dealers
1 Central Autoworld Asia Sdn Bhd
2 Central Botanic Auto Mall Sdn Bhd
3 Central Global Amity Sdn Bhd (Bangi)
4 Central Kah Motor Co Sdn Bhd – Selayang
5 Central Sri Utama Auto Sdn Bhd
6 Central USJ Car Express Sdn Bhd
7 Central MH Prestige Auto Sdn Bhd
8 Central Peringgit Sri Motor Sdn Bhd
9 Central Tenaga Setia Resources Sdn Bhd
10 Central The Millenium Auto Carriage
11 East Coast Syarikat Tan Eng Ann Sdn Bhd
12 East Malaysia Syarikat Labuan Automobile Sdn Bhd
13 Northern Ban Hoe Seng (Auto) Sdn Bhd
14 Northern Formula Venture Sdn Bhd
15 Northern Kah Motor Co Sdn Bhd – Sg Pinang
16 Northern Lee Motor SP (Car Div) Sdn Bhd
17 Northern Yooi Cars Sdn Bhd
18 Southern Ban Lee Heng Motor Sdn Bhd (Seremban)
19 Southern Syarikat Motor GS Tay Sdn Bhd
20 Southern Yong Ming Motor Sdn Bhd

Think of a motorcycle engine builder, and there is a very good chance that Mugen will not be the first to come to mind. In fact, powerhouses such as S&S and even Polaris are the first companies that come to mind. Mugen is usually associated with Hondas, actually, very mad Hondas. Hardcore, modified beyond the point of horsepower recognition type of Hondas. In Malaysia at least.

Mugen is also a specialised engine builder that supplied engines to Formula 1 teams like Lotus, Ligier and even Jordan, with whom the company achieved a 1-2 finish in Spa-Francorchamps in 98.

But the truth is, Mugen has been dabbling in motorcycles for a while now. In the 70s, the company, which was founded by the son of Soichiro Honda, created a prototype engine called the MRV1000. It was a 1000cc engine featuring twin-carburettors, but it never made production.

And then, in 2012, Mugen collaborated with Honda to produce an all-electric superbike to race in the Isle of Man TT. The legendary race has a class for all-electric superbikes called TT Zero, in which the Mugen-Honda powered superbikes have been dominant ever since. And just for your information, the average speed of Mugen-Honda electric bikes have increased from 165km/h in 2012, to 192km/h in 2015.

Now though, the company seems quite serious about dabbling into proper internal combustion engines for motorcycles with its latest engine concept called the MRV1400.

Showcased at the recently concluded Tokyo Motorcycle Show, the new engine concept is a 1400cc engine featuring a similar layout to its ancestor, with distinctive pushrod tubes and a separate transmission.

At the show, the engine was showcased next to a drawing of a sleek naked roadster, with Mugen even going as far as requesting show-goers for feedback on whether or not it should build the new MRV1400. Interestingly the new engine also features Keihin carburettors, but in these days of strict emission standards, it is unlikely that a carburettor engine will meet emission regulations. Sadly, Mugen will need fuel injectors if it wants its engine to see the light of day.

So what about production? The company says that even if the engine does make it to full-time production, it will not happen before 2020, and it will take even more time for the engine to make it into a full-fledged production motorcycle.

In a surprise move, HMSB has unveiled a Mugen kitted Honda HR-V! Priced at RM118,000 (RM300 extra for pearl white paint), it sports a full Mugen kit including pedals and a special Mugen emblem in the cockpit and on the exterior. Here’s the 360° walk-around video…

There are 2 colour choices and we recommend the white, which shows off the kit a lot better. Check out the gallery of Mugen parts included in the HR-V below:

Click this for the full press release: HONDA HR-V MUGEN LIMITED EDITION NOW AVAILABLE TO THRILL MALAYSIANS

Honda Malaysia Sdn Bhd (HMSB) has extended its model range equipped with Next Generation Advanced Safety Technology by introducing its first model for 2018, the new 7-seater Odyssey MPV with Honda SENSING. Check out this quick 360-degree walk-around and interior video taken at the launch:

The Odyssey is the third model after the CR-V and Accord to be equipped with Honda SENSING, the safety feature which bagged the 2016 ASEAN NCAP Grand Prix Award in the “Best Safety Technology” from a carmaker category. The launch of the New Odyssey completes the trifecta of Honda vehicles with SENSING in Malaysia, which includes its sedans, sport-utility vehicles (SUV) and multi-purpose/passenger vehicles (MPV).

The Honda SENSING* in the new Odyssey consists of six features, which are divided into the two categories of Safety and Convenience, as well as Comfort:

Features for Safety:
– Forward Collision Warning (FCW) that will trigger a visual warning and audible alerts for the driver when the monocular camera and a millimetre wave radar detect that it is at risk of collision with the front vehicle
– Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) which assists in applying brake force progressively when it senses an increasing risk of collision
– Lane Departure Warning (LDW) which monitors vehicle lane position using cameras, and alerts if the driver drives out of the lane
– Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) that provides alerts, applies brakes and assists the driver’s steering to prevent driving off the road
.

Features for Convenience & Comfort:
– Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) that sets a desired speed and following interval from the vehicle detected ahead
– Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS) which uses camera to read lane markings and assist the driver’s steering to keep the vehicle in the centre of its lane

Honda Malaysia Group Vice President, Akkbar Danial said, “In addition to Honda SENSING, the New Odyssey is expected to elevate the safety benchmark in Malaysia’s MPV segment with its unrivalled premium safety features. These include Multi-view Camera System, Smart Parking Assist System, Blind Spot Information that alerts on oncoming vehicle in the blind spot when the driver is switching lanes and Cross Traffic Monitoring that gives off a warning whistle when a collision with a cross-approaching vehicle is predicted when backing up the MPV. On top of all these features which are exclusively found only in the Odyssey, the New Odyssey is also equipped with six airbags.” 

You can see him highlight some of the new Odyssey features in this short video:

The outward appearance of the Odyssey is enhanced with a new front bumper, new front grille, new LED rear lights, LED fog lights, 17” Dual Tone Alloy Wheels, Auto Retractable Door Mirrors and it is also equipped with Auto Dim Rear View Mirror. Meanwhile, the interior of the Odyssey has also received a makeover.

These include new bigger armrests for the driver seat, 4-Way Passenger Power Seat, added storage and enhanced utility as well as bigger headrest for its Premium Captain Cradle Seats with Ottoman on the second row to boost comfort and enjoyment for the passengers, especially during long journeys. The Ultra-Low Floor Platform of the New Odyssey eases passenger ingress and egress in addition to enabling this MPV to have a spacious cabin that is equivalent to a large-class MPV.

The Odyssey upholds its predecessor’s characteristics that offer a refined and exquisite silhouette, spacious and elegant interior while being fully equipped with other advanced features of an MPV. Performance-wise, the Odyssey is powered by a 2.4L DOHC 
i-VTEC Earth Dreams Technology engine mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that gives dynamic acceleration at start and also best-in-class fuel efficiency.

The Odyssey is offered in just one variant, the 2.4L EXV with Honda SENSING, and it’s priced at RM254,800 without insurance (including GST). Honda Malaysia has set a sales target of 130 units per year for the New Odyssey.

It will be available in three colour options, of which two are the first in a Honda model. The new colours are Platinum White Pearl and Premium Twinkle Black Pearl, while the popular Super Platinum Metallic is maintained.

It is now open for booking at all 93 Honda dealers nationwide. It comes with 5-year warranty with unlimited mileage and a service interval of 10,000km.

For more information on the new Odyssey with Honda SENSING or to book a test drive, you can visit any Honda authorised dealer or call Honda’s toll free number at 1-800-88-2020, or log on to www.honda.com.my.

2018 Honda Odyssey Launch Photo Gallery…

*Low Speed Follow (LSF) is not equipped in the new Accord (below) with Honda SENSING or the new Odyssey MPV.

Honda Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. (HMSB) has continued to retain its No. 1 position for Non-National segment for three consecutive years and strongly maintain No. 2 position in overall TIV for two consecutive years from 2016 to 2017. They also announced that all of its CKD models took the lead in their respective segments in 2017.

HMSB recorded total sales of 109,511 units, setting an all-time high record in the history of Honda Malaysia since it was established in 2003. This is also the first time that Honda Malaysia achieved sales of more than 100,000 units and also the highest that a Non-National brand has ever achieved in Malaysia. Since 2003 and in the span of 14 years, Honda Malaysia has sold more than 730,000 units of vehicles, bringing the Joy of Driving to Malaysia.

In December 2017 alone, HMSB recorded 11,221 units sold. The overall sales for 2017 increased by 19% compared to the 91,830 units recorded in 2016. The Company managed to capture 19% market share, the highest ever achieved in Honda Malaysia history, and an increase of 3.2 points from 2016.

In 2017, Honda Malaysia launched 6 new models. The 2017 models introduced are the BR-V, City, Jazz & Jazz Hybrid, City Hybrid, CR-V and All-New Civic Type R. The City emerged as Honda’s best-selling model in 2017, contributing 27% of total sales, followed by HR-V at 17%, BR-V at 16% and Civic at 14% respectively. In the Hybrid segment, the Jazz Hybrid and City Hybrid contributed 2% to the total sales of Honda Malaysia despite being on sale for only 4 months and the two models are leading the overall Hybrid segment.

Throughout 2017, Honda Malaysia expanded its presence and penetration in East Malaysia, which contributed more than 7,500 units to the total sales achieved. Sales for East Malaysia in 2017 increased by 33% compared to 2016. BR-V was the best-selling model in East Malaysia.

Besides increasing sales and customer base, Honda Malaysia is also mindful of the importance of its after sales service. Last year, the Company introduced Honda Pride with the aim to create awareness amongst Honda customers on the benefits of after sales services and to increase customer satisfaction.

With 12 specially designed benefits such as 5 years warranty with unlimited mileage, genuine parts and comfortable dealer showroom, Honda Pride is dedicated to the customer’s experience of top quality services in after sales from the moment they step into the dealership. The Company increased the number of dealerships in 2017 to cater to the expanded customer base and to continue providing excellent after sales services. In terms of service intake, Honda Malaysia recorded more than 1,150,000 vehicles serviced in 2017, up 13% from the approximately 1,021,000 vehicles serviced in 2016.

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Honda Malaysia, Toichi Ishiyama said, “Honda Malaysia achieved outstanding sales achievement in 2017, and we dedicate this milestone year that we have experienced to all our customers, business partners, dealers and Honda associates. It has been an exciting year for Honda and the outstanding results we achieved would not have been possible without the strong support of all Malaysians and the Malaysian Government.”

“Reflectively, we are pleased to note that with the maturing Malaysian market, customers responded well to the various Next Generation Advanced Technologies we introduced such as Honda SENSING, Turbo and Sport Hybrid i-DCD. The Sport Hybrid i-DCD made history during their introductions as Malaysia is the only country outside of Japan to introduce the technology. It was also the most affordable Hybrid to be introduced in the market. Honda was also the first brand to introduce the SENSING technology into mass models such as the CR-V and New Accord. Ultimately, we strive to bring the joy of ownership to all our customers,” concluded Ishiyama-san.

The 15-Year Breakdown…

 

Honda Malaysia Sales Result (2003-2017)
Year Sales Unit
2003 17,087
2004 24,862
2005 27,462
2006 26,529
2007 28,480
2008 32,491
2009 38,785
2010 44,486
2011 32,482
2012 34,947
2013 51,550
2014 77,487
2015 94,902
2016 91,830
2017 109,511

 

 

Honda Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. (HMSB) has announced the results of an outstanding year in 2017. The company recorded an astounding total sales of 109,511 units, the highest in the history of Honda Malaysia since it was established in 2003. This is also the first time that Honda Malaysia achieved sales of more than 100,000 units. This sales figure is also the highest that a Non-National brand has ever achieved in Malaysia.

The Central region contributed the highest number of sales at 47%, followed by Southern region and Northern region. The overall sales for 2017 increased by 19% compared to the 91,830 units recorded in year 2016.

Commenting on the outstanding year that Honda experienced, Honda Malaysia Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Toichi Ishiyama said, “The year 2017 truly was remarkable for Honda Malaysia. At the beginning of 2017, we challenged ourselves with a sales target of 100,000 units and in March 2017, we achieved a historical milestone with the 600,000th unit (CKD) production within the span of 14 years since Honda Malaysia started in 2003. At the end of 2017, based on internal data our market share was at 19%, an increase of 3.2 points from 2016. For the first time ever, we surpassed the 100,000 units sales achievement within a calendar year. We continue to maintain our No. 1 position for Non-National segment and No. 2 position in overall TIV of the automotive industry.”

“On behalf of Honda Malaysia, I would like to extend our sincerest appreciation to all Honda Malaysia customers for their faith and belief in our brand and for making Honda their vehicle of choice. This achievement would not have been possible without our valued customers as well as strong support from our business partners and the Malaysian government,” added Mr. Ishiyama.

Having reviewed an outstanding 2017, Honda Malaysia is all geared up to make 2018 another successful year with many exciting products and services in the pipeline.

(Like maybe this perhaps? Stay tuned! – Chris Wee)

 

Acura, Honda’s North American luxury sub-brand will be unveiling the new 2019 RDX prototype at the upcoming 2018 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). The vehicle incorporates key design elements from the Acura Precision Concept and Acura Precision Cockpit.

Unlike its predecessor, the new RDX is designed and developed in the USA using the new Acura-exclusive platform. It’s angular contours, wide haunches and commanding presence make for an extremely appealing crossover SUV. The menacing front fascia and large LED headlamps are a welcomed edition to the 2019 model year.

This third-generation RDX gets an all-new interior design, user interface and operating system built and designed from scratch. Though the exact details have yet to be revealed, we are guessing that it should feature the automaker’s suite of cutting edge tech featured in the rest of its premium vehicles.

Acura’s RDX is one of the best selling vehicles in the premium-entry SUV segment for the US market. This particular segment has been steadily growing with each passing year, and is on a path to unseat the dominance and desirability of premium sedans.

Honda is gearing up for the unveil of its all new Insight at the upcoming North American International Auto Show that will take place in January. The unveil will be of a prototype vehicle that will serve as a precursor to the actual production version, slated for launch later next year.

Unlike its predecessor, the new Insight will feature a sedan body-style and be positioned above the Civic as a refined family car. Sporting a similar silhouette to the current generation Civic, the 2019 Insight inherits the rather handsome and front grille of the Accord but with sleeker contours.

As for the rear, the automaker has chosen a less cluttered approach to the design, fitting angular LED taillights that slightly resemble those from a certain German manufacturer. That said, the entire design, is a step in the right direction. Where the second generation Insight resembled a MPV, the new one forgoes that look for a more business-like one.

“With its sophisticated styling, dynamic stance, ample interior space and best-in-class performance, the all-new Insight embodies Honda’s approach to creating electrified vehicles without the typical tradeoffs,” said, Henio Arcangeli, Jr., senior vice president of Automobile Sales and general manager of the Honda Division, American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

“You won’t have to be an electrification advocate to appreciate the new Insight – it’s a great car in its own right, independent of what’s happening under the hood,” he later added.

Honda says that the new Insight will come with premium features and the performance that will win over the favour of many. Its two-motor hybrid powertrain will be able to provide all the benefits of a hybrid but none of the compromises.

Cars bound for the North American market will be built at Honda’s Greensburg, Indiana plant, alongside Civic and CR-V. This latest addition to the family is part of the Japanese automaker’s plan, that by 2030, two-thirds of its products will consist of only electrified vehicles.

Honda’s original NSX was an amazing amalgamation of the automaker’s F1 technical know-how and experience in producing well-built machines. It was an evolution of the HP-X Concept car that was designed in collaboration with Pininfarina. It featured cutting-edge tech and styling inspired by the F-16 fighter jet.

The intention of building the car, was to show that the company was well able to challenge status quo, and prove that a supercar can offer mounds of driving enjoyment yet be reliable for everyday use. Conceived in the 1980s, Honda’s plan of building a sports car came to fruition in the early 1990s.

Built from an all-aluminum body, the NSX, which was an acronym for New Sportscar eXperimental, was powered by a naturally aspirated 3.0-litre V6 engine. Later iterations featured a slightly larger 3.2-litre variant. It was either mated to a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission.

Granted, it didn’t offer the same visceral feel as a V8 powered Ferrari, but the car more than made up for that with nimble handling characteristics, reliable mechanicals and decent power delivery. That, packaged into a slender and lightweight 1990s body, caused a bit of a stir during its debut.

What helped the car gain its cult status was that F1 legend Aryton Senna, was involved in its development. His input helped shape the NSX’s driving characteristics, which is especially evident when the car is taken to its limits.

A video published by Petrolicious on its Youtube channel, depicts the love affair between Sean Lee and his NSX. Lee was smitten with the car from an early age. At a later stage in his life, he managed to acquire the car and enjoy it to its fullest. Check out the video and let us know what you think of it and whether it deserves to be revered.

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