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Honda and GM to co-develop affordable electric vehicles for sale from 2027

While most carmakers have formed alliances and even merged to face the new challenges of the 21^st century, Honda has often chosen to proceed alone with its own resources. It has collaborated with other carmakers from time to time in specific areas, and often, it has been other manufacturers wanting to have access to Honda’s technology or products.

However, with the electrification of the industry which has a degree of urgency (with targets set for the end of this decade), even independent-minded Honda has seen it more practical to have closer working relationships with other carmakers. Other Japanese companies have already formed their own collaborative groups – Nissan and Mitsubishi in the alliance with Renault, and Toyota having joint programs with Mazda, Subaru, Suzuki and of course, Daihatsu and Hino which are within its own group.

With an eye on the US market, Honda has chosen to expand its relationship with General Motors to co-develop a series of affordable electric vehicles. This follows on from the 2020 announcement to jointly develop two all-new electric vehicles for Honda, based on GM’s flexible global EV platform powered by proprietary Ultium batteries. The EVs will be manufactured at GM plants in North America with sales expected to begin in the 2024 model year in North America.

For this new joint venture, the EVs will be based on a new global architecture using GM’s next-generation Ultium battery technology. GM’s Ultium batteries are unique in the industry because the large-format, pouch-style cells can be stacked vertically or horizontally inside the battery pack. This allows engineers to optimize battery energy storage and layout for each vehicle design. The cells use a proprietary low cobalt chemistry and ongoing technological and manufacturing breakthroughs will drive costs even lower.

Ultium energy options range from 50 to 200 kWh, which could enable a GM-estimated range up to 640 kms or more on a full. Motors designed in-house will support front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive and even performance all-wheel drive applications.

A joint statement says that there will be ‘global production of millions of EVs starting in 2027’ and these will include compact crossover vehicles which today account for the largest segment in the world, with annual volumes of more than 13 million vehicles.

*Honda will use GM’s factories in America to build the new EVs, which will also be built in other markets as well.*

Both companies will contribute their technology and design expertise as well as sourcing strategies. By standardizing equipment, it is expected that world-class quality, higher throughput and greater affordability can be achieved. A flexible, modular approach to EV development is expected to enable significant economies of scale for lower production costs.

“Honda is committed to reaching our goal of carbon neutrality on a global basis by 2050, which requires driving down the cost of electric vehicles to make EV ownership possible for the greatest number of customers,” said Toshihiro Mibe, Honda’s President & CEO. “Honda and GM will build on our successful technology collaboration to help achieve a dramatic expansion in the sales of electric vehicles.”

“The progress we have made with GM since we announced the EV battery development collaboration in 2018, followed by co-development of electric vehicles including the Honda Prologue, has demonstrated the win-win relationship that can create new value for our customers,” added Shinji Aoyama, Senior Managing Executive Officer at Honda. “This new series of affordable EVs will build on this relationship by leveraging our strength in the development and production of high quality, compact class vehicles.”

Earlier projects involving the two carmakers have focused on electric and autonomous vehicle technologies. In 2013, the two companies began working together on the co-development of a next-generation fuel cell system and hydrogen storage technologies. In 2018, Honda joined GM’s EV battery module development efforts.

They also have an ongoing relationship with Cruise and are working together on the development of the Cruise Origin, one of the first purpose-built fully autonomous vehicles designed for driverless ride-hail and delivery. The Cruise project, which involves Microsoft, is part of Honda’s new mobility business in Japan.

GM and Honda will also discuss future EV battery technology collaboration opportunities, to further drive down the cost of electrification, improve performance and drive sustainability for future vehicles. GM is already working to accelerate new technologies like lithium-metal, silicon and solid-state batteries, along with production methods that can quickly be used to improve and update battery cell manufacturing processes. Honda is making progress on its all-solid-state battery technology which the company sees as the core element of future EVs.

“GM and Honda will share our best technology, design and manufacturing strategies to deliver affordable and desirable EVs on a global scale, including our key markets in North America, South America and China,” said Mary Barra, GM Chair & CEO. “This is a key step to deliver on our commitment to achieve carbon neutrality in our global products and operations by 2040 and eliminate tailpipe emissions from light duty vehicles in the USA by 2035. By working together, we’ll put people all over the world into EVs faster than either company could achieve on its own.”

Honda will stop selling models with combustion engines from 2040, range to be fully electric

Honda Malaysia’s local vehicle assembly crosses 1 million mark

The Honda Malaysia assembly plant today crossed a significant milestone in its history – the production of its 1 millionth unit since commencing local assembly in 2003. The 1 millionth unit was the latest 11^thegeneration of the Honda Civic Sedan.

Speaking at a special ceremony held at the plant, Honda Malaysia’s Managing Director & CEO, Madoka Chujo, said: “It has been 20 years since Honda Malaysia’s establishment in the country. We have evolved and recorded significant achievements since then. In March 2021, we achieved the 1 millionth sale unit milestone with all Malaysians. Just one year later, I am now celebrating another significant milestone with all of you the 1 millionth production unit. I would like to express my deepest appreciation to all Honda associates and suppliers for their effort and hard work to ensure smooth production process and supply chain operations, even with many challenges faced, including the COVID-19 pandemic, global chip shortage and recent flood incidents. With their dedication, Challenging Spirit and working ‘Together As One’, we are able to achieve this remarkable 1 million production unit milestone.”

”Additionally, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our dealers, members of the media and Honda customers for your unwavering support towards Honda Malaysia. We would also like to thank the Malaysian government for the strong support since the establishment of Honda Malaysia. On top of that, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Melaka State Government for their continued support for our plans for this Pegoh Plant. The tremendous support from all stakeholders has helped Honda Malaysia progress and enabled us to achieve the No.1 position in Non-National Passenger Vehicle segment for 8 consecutive years since 2014,” she said.

Although Honda vehicles have been assembled in Malaysia since the early 1970s, they were done so under contract assembly with Oriental Assemblers in Johor. With the establishment of Honda Malaysia (initially known as DRB-Oriental-Honda), the Japanese carmaker also made the decision to invest in having its own assembly plant as well. It chose a greenfield site in Pegoh, Melaka, adjacent to the North-South Expressway.

*The first model assembled when the plant began operations in 2003 was the second generation Honda CR-V.*

Investment in the plant, which took a brisk 13 months to go from construction to pilot production in 2003, started with RM180 million, with RM194 million earmarked for expansion over the following 5 years. The investment included RM20 million for a facility on the 80-acre site to assemble Constant Velocity (CV) joints for export to Honda plants in the Philippines, Indonesia and Thailand under the ASEAN Industrial Cooperation Scheme (AICO). Later, the volumes made it the largest exporter of CV joints in the region and its products would go as far as the UK and Turkey.

Started with CR-V
The plant was initially built with a single line for an annual capacity of 50,000 vehicles. The first model to roll out was the second generation of the CR-V. All output from the plant was only for the Malaysian market and as the popularity of Hondas grew, demand rose so the production capacity was increased to 100,000 units a year with a second line being set up. By then, the number of models assembled locally totalled seven. In October 2013, local assembly of the Jazz Hybrid began, making Honda Malaysia the first company to assemble vehicles with hybrid electric technology locally.

The Honda Jazz Hybrid was the first locally assembled model with hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) technology. Today, Honda Malaysia offers HEV technology with the City Sedan, City Hatchback and HR-V models, all assembled locally as well.

The flexible production capability allows different models to be assembled at the same time. There is also a range of state-of-the-art manufacturing technologies that are on par with the Honda plants in Japan. One of them is Laser Brazing technology which creates a smooth and clean roofline for a sleeker exterior appearance. Inner Frame Welding technology is also used to enhance the body rigidity, while the use of Spray Polyurethane Foam reduces noise and vibrations.

Malaysia considered ‘first country’ market
The steady progress made by the plant as well as growing sales volumes have raised the status of the Malaysian market where product planning is concerned. Since the fourth generation of the City, Malaysia has been considered a ‘first country’ instead of ‘second country’. The ‘second country’ status meant that whatever features were available were already decided earlier by ‘first countries’ such as India, Thailand and Indonesia. As such, Honda Malaysia had to adapt from what was already decided for other markets and that affected the cost of the parts made locally.

Being upgraded to ‘first country’ meant that Honda Malaysia could participate in the product planning for the new model and submit specific requests for features or equipment which were required for the Malaysian version. This enabled a greater degree of localization of parts which also led to lowering of production costs.

*Manufacturing technologies at the assembly plant in Melaka have been constantly upgraded to enable the vehicles produced to be of the highest quality.*

Besides its own factory, Honda Malaysia also encouraged some of its suppliers to set up facilities nearby so that delivery of parts would be faster and more efficient. This would support the Japanese approach of ‘Just-in-Time’ where storage of parts would be kept low, reducing the need for warehousing space.

Honda Malaysia aims to sell 80,000 units in 2022 and introduce Certified Used Car business

Honda Civic Hatchback e:HEV Hybrid for Europe – will it come to Malaysia too?

When the latest 11^th generation Civic Hatchback made its global debut from North America last year, it was mentioned that there would be hybrid (which Honda calls e:HEV) as well as combustion engine powertrains. However, the e:HEV powertrain was primarily intended for the European market to meet Honda’s objective for all European mainstream models to have electrified powertrains by 2022.

The Civic Hatchback e:HEV will be available in Europe from the fourth quarter of this year. It will join the Jazz, CR-V and HR-V in the electrified line-up, while the Honda e is a battery electric model (BEV).

While the Jazz, CR-V and HR-V use 1.5-litre petrol engines with their hybrid powertrains, the new Civic Hatchback has a larger 2-litre direct-injection, Atkinson-cycle engine. The total system output is 135 kW (170 ps) and 315 Nm of torque. Honda engineers have introduced several new elements within its architecture to help achieve a thermal efficiency of 41%, one of the highest figures within the automotive industry for a production roadcar engine. This allows the engine to provide better performance as losses through friction are less.

The two compact electric motors, powered by a 72-cell lithium-ion battery, work together to provide the primary propulsion for the car. The engine is controlled by a new, compact Power Control unit which now sits under the bonnet with the rest of the powertrain. Located under the rear seats is the latest version of Honda’s Intelligent Power Unit (IPU) and whilst smaller and lighter, it benefits from an increased energy density. This system delivers a feeling of instant torque and powerful acceleration whilst still offering outstanding efficiency.

While on the move, the advanced powertrain shifts seamlessly between electric, hybrid and engine-only modes. When each mode is used depends on various factors, but the driver does not make the determination. The computer will consider the battery level, load conditions and speed, and choose the optimum mode to run in. It is possible to run a few kilometres on just electric mode, usually when starting a journey.

And while on the move, the battery is constantly recharged (even during braking or coasting) so there should be no ‘range anxiety’ or the need to search for a charging station. In fact, with the presence of the petrol engine, the operation is just like a normal car with a combustion engine and fuel can be added when necessary. However, with the electric motor doing part of the work, the consumption will be quite low (20 kms/litre claimed).

While the driver cannot control the powertrain modes, he or she can select specific programming for economical, sporty, or normal driving characteristics. The Civic Hatchback also has one more mode not seen in all e:HEV models and that is an Individual mode. This allows separate control of the engine, transmission and meter display and will be appreciated by drivers who want to fine-tune their car’s performance. Central to the e:HEV system is the fixed gear transmission which has been designed to minimize mechanical friction and is controlled by the IPU.

As for styling, the overall appearance follows that of the latest Civic generation with a more dramatic roofline that gives a sleek coupe-like profile. Depending on the variant, the front end may have a different grille (like the RS versions in Malaysia). At the rear where the big differences are, with larger side windows and a new small corner window in the C-pillar to enhance rearward visibility,

The roofline flows downwards to a lightweight composite tailgate (a first for the Civic). Developed using new manufacturing technology, the weight has been reduced by 20% compared with the previous Civic, making it easier to open and close.

The overall height of the car has been reduced by 50 mm by moving the hinge mechanism outwards. The design of the rear lights is different from the sedan’s and the third brake light lens spans nearly the entire width of its hatch, visually emphasizing the Hatchback’s wider rear track.

Compared to the 10th-generation Civic Hatchback, the windscreen pillars have been moved back by around 50 mm while the wheelbase is 35 mm longer and the rear track is 13 mm wider. However, the rear overhang is less which reduces the overall length by 124 mm but Honda says rear legroom is better in this new variant.

With the large opening at the back, additional attention was given to body rigidity. The Civic Hatchback’s structure has 19% better torsional rigidity versus the previous generation. The stiffer structure, with an aluminium front subframe, benefits ride, handling and refinement, with reductions in noise, vibration and harshness augmented with the extensive use of structural adhesives, spray-in foam in the pillars, and additional sound deadening in the firewall and under the floor.

The suspension is shared with the Sedan but Honda mentions chassis updates such as new low-drag front brake calipers, and low-friction front and rear wheel bearings to reduce rolling resistance.

While the latest City Sedan and Hatchback RS have e:HEV powertrains, the new Civic Sedan does not. Whether we get the new Civic Hatchback e:HEV depends very much on whether it is offered in Thailand. Sales of the Civic Hatchback have not been good so there may not be interest offer the new generation.

However, since it uses the same platform as the sedan, Honda might be willing to develop a sedan with e:HEV technology for ASEAN where there should be sufficient volume to justify it. According to Maduko Chujo, Managing Director & CEO of Honda Malaysia, the company is looking at the possibility of offering a hybrid powertrain with the Civic later on. One of the challenges for the company is to get the cost down so the pricing can be more attractive to a larger segment of buyers.

11th generation Honda Civic Sedan arrives in Malaysia, with 1.5-litre turbo engine for entire range

A new Acura Integra returns after 21 years

The Integra was the model that helped launch the Acura brand in America in 1986 and became a much respected model among enthusiasts. It was retired in 2001 (in America) and was thought to be destined to stay in history books and memories. But last year, Acura showed off an Integra Prototype and said that the model would be back, and it would be built in America for the first time.

And here it is, looking very much like the prototype but without the bright yellow colour and graphics. It returns with a fresh new sporty design, coupe-like and having 4 doors plus a tailgate. The Integra uses Acura’s contrast design language, first seen on the latest RDX and features a frameless version of Acura’s Diamond Pentagon grille, framed by four JewelEye LED headlight elements and ‘Chicane’ LED daytime running lights.

2022 Acura Integra Prototype — *Integra Prototype shown last year.*

The rear end has dual exhaust finishers below and wide, single piece LED taillights above which are reminiscent of previous models. Embossed Integra logos in the front and rear fascia recall the 3rd generation car.

Customers can also select appearance packages and with the A-Spec sport-appearance package, there are gloss-black window surrounds and front and rear fascia trim, as well as a sporty lip spoiler. The package includes 18-inch alloy wheels fitted with larger 235/40R18 performance tyres.

Familiar 1.5-litre turbo engine
Under the aluminium bonnet is a VTEC-enhanced DOHC 1.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 200 bhp/260 Nm. A new coil type exhaust system adds an emotional exhaust sound. The engine comes with a CVT but customers can also opt for a 6-speed manual transmission (with LSD included), which should please enthusiasts.

A standard Integrated Dynamics System provides3 driving modes (Comfort, Normal and Sport) that the driver can choose. Each mode has its own throttle response, automatic transmission mapping, steering feel and even gauge colouration.

Adaptive Damper System
Much is shared with the latest Civic but the engineers have also tuned the chassis of the new Integra to provide class-leading driving dynamics and engaging performance. The fully independent suspension can be upgraded with an optional Adaptive Damper System for drivers to have more precise control of the ride and handling. An Individual mode allows independent selection of steering, engine response, and suspension firmness for a more personalise driving experience at the touch of a button.

Inside, the Integra’s cabin has a low dashboard cowl, thin pillars and door-mounted mirrors which give a better field of view. Sporty cars don’t always have good rear legroom but the Integra is said to give rear passengers generous legroom and plenty of space for recreational gear.

Standard are new body-stabilizing front seats wrapped in synthetic leather. They come with 8-way power adjustment for the driver which can be upgraded to 12 ways at extra cost. When equipped with the A-Spec package, the standard items are replaced by stainless steel pedals, red gauge needles, and contrast stitching on the steering wheel, seats, shifter and shift boot.

Acura Precision Cockpit
The 10.2-inch Acura Precision Cockpit digital gauge cluster with multiple display modes is complemented by a 7-inch or 9-inch digital touchscreen. Those who add the Technology Package can also get Qi-compatible wireless charging and a 5.3-inch Head-Up Display. All USB charging ports are the newer Type C ones. For music on the move, there’s an 8-speaker system with the option of a 16-speaker ELS STUDIO 3D premium audio system.

Being a sportscar with high performance, safety is naturally even more important. The Integra has many active safety systems including the integrated AcuraWatch suite of driver assistive and safety technologies that use a single camera system. It also has a segment-first new generation of driver and passenger front airbags, specifically designed to cradle the head and reduce the risk of brain injuries, especially in offset collisions. The aluminium bonnet is made with an embossed inner structure that will distribute the force of an impact with a pedestrian’s head in the event of a collision to reduce the likelihood of injury.

Acura brings back a new generation of the car that launched the brand in 1986

New colour choices for 2022 Honda City and Accord

Changing colour choices for new cars may seem like a simple thing for the marketing company – just tell the plant what new colour to paint and it will be done. However, the process of adding or changing to a new colour is actually not as easy, from what we understand from people in the industry. There must be evidence that the new colour is going to be popular and justify the plant or manufacturer doing durability tests, and in some cases, marketing people have told us that when they do try to ask for a colour change, the manufacturer will ask if it will result in more sales than with the current colour. If not, why waste time and money to develop and test a new colour?

But inevitably, colours have to be changed to refresh the range and Honda Malaysia does that periodically. Their latest new colour options are for the best-selling City and flagship Accord models. Both models can now be ordered with a new Meteoroid Gray Metallic finish that replaces the Modern Steel Metallic colour. The City also gets a fresh and vibrant Ignite Red Metallic colour option, replacing the Passion Red Pearl colour.

“The Ignite Red Metallic and Meteoroid Gray Metallic colours are introduced in the All-New City Hatchback for the first time. Both colours have been well accepted by the market and we expanded the new colour options to the All-New Civic. To further excite the market, we are now offering these new colour options in the City and Accord as well. The new colours further emphasise the styling of the City and elevate the sleek profile of the Accord. We will continue to enhance our products to deliver the Joy of Buying to the customers,” said Madoka Chujo, Honda Malaysia’s Managing Director & CEO.

She said that sales of the latest 5th Generation City have exceeded 32,500 units since its launch. “It was Honda Malaysia’s best-selling model in January and February this year, with 38% contribution to the company’s overall sales during that period,” she added.

The current Accord is the 10^th generation of the executive model and was introduced to the Malaysian market in 2020. It was the first time a Japanese mass market manufacturer introduced a turbocharged engine in a D-segment car. The model received favourable response from Malaysians with more than 2,200 units sold to date.

For more information on the City, Accord or other Honda models in Malaysia, visit any authorised Honda dealership. The locations of dealerships can be found at www.honda.com.my.

Honda Malaysia aims to sell 80,000 units in 2022 and introduce Certified Used Car business

Honda and Sony to form new company to develop and sell EVs from 2025

Since being established 73 years ago, Honda Motor has been able to remain independent instead of becoming part of a bigger group. On its own, it has been able to successfully manage its business and endure even the most challenging periods without having to surrender its independence. However, the 21^st century sees the auto industry changing and with the move towards electric vehicles (EVs), the cost of developing entirely new technologies is very high. In April, Honda became the first Japanese automaker to declare its intention will stop selling combustion-engines vehicles by 2040.

So even though Honda has preferred to be a ‘lone ranger’, it has been forming strategic alliances with some companies in the area of EVs because it is crucial to remain competitive in the new field, and sharing resources is more realistic. Honda has already agreed with General Motors to jointly develop two all-new EVs for Honda’s range, based on GM’s global EV platform. The EVs will be manufactured at GM plants in North America with sales expected to begin in 2024 for that market.

New joint-venture company
On another front, Honda will be working with Sony Group Corporation to develop EVs as well. The two companies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that outlines their intent to form a joint venture company through which they plan to engage in the joint development and sales of high value-added battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and commercialize them in conjunction with providing mobility services. The new company is expected to be established before the end of this year.

*The Honda e, a fully electric EV model, is already on sale in Europe.*

This alliance aims to bring together Honda’s mobility development capabilities, vehicle body manufacturing technology and aftersales service management experience, while Sony has expertise in the development and application of imaging, sensing, telecommunication, network, and entertainment technologies.

Sony has already developed EVs
Honda has already developed a few EV models for sale, with the Honda e having received a good response in Europe. Sony has also been developing its own EVs, with two prototypes displayed earlier this year at CES 2022 in Las Vegas. The prototypes appear to have reached quite an advanced stage and have been shown in real-world road-testing.

*Sony’s two EVs which were shown at CES 2022 earlier this year.*

While Sony announced in January that it would start a new unit called Sony Mobility which would handle commercialization of EVs, this move may well have been too challenging for the company which does not have experience in making cars. Honda, on the other hand, has been producing many fine cars with its decades of experience. As Sony would have vast experience in electronics, which are dominant in EVs, its expertise will be very useful.

So it remains to be seen whether Honda will adopt Sony’s concepts – called VISION-S – or come out with a new design. If they want to do a new design, they have less than 3 years to do so as the plan is to start sales of the first model from the new company in 2025.

A new brand name?
There is also a possibility that the new EVs will have separate branding rather than be sold as Honda or Sony products. This is because the agreement is for the new company ‘to plan, design, develop, and sell the EVs’. It is agreed that Honda will be responsible for manufacturing the first EV model at its own factory.

*Honda has had many decades of experience manufacturing cars. not only in Japan but also in other countries.*

“The New Company will aim to stand at the forefront of innovation, evolution, and expansion of mobility around the world, by taking a broad and ambitious approach to creating value that exceeds the expectations and imagination of customers. We will do so by leveraging Honda’s cutting-edge technology and know-how in relation to the environment and safety, while aligning the technological assets of both companies. Although Sony and Honda are companies that share many historical and cultural similarities, our areas of technological expertise are very different. Therefore, I believe this alliance which brings together the strengths of our two companies offers great possibilities for the future of mobility,” said Toshihiro Mibe, Director, President, Representative Executive Officer & CEO of Honda Motor.

2022 Honda Odyssey now available in Malaysia, priced from RM275,311.

Like the other top non-national brands, Honda focusses largely on locally-assembled models as they can be priced competitively and sell in large volumes. Nevertheless, it also offers some models that are imported in CBU (completely built-up) form for customers who want something that the local range may not have.

One of these is the Odyssey which is now in its fifth generation. To date, Honda Malaysia has sold almost 2,000 units of the MPV which was introduced locally in 2003. The latest generation of the MPV is priced at RM275,311 without insurance and with half the applicable sales tax exempted (until June 30, 2022). The model continues to use a 2.4-litre i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine (172 ps/225 Nm) and CVT.

“The introduction of the New Odyssey caters to the needs of customers such as families and executives who seek a luxury 7-seater MPV with excellent ride comfort, elegant exterior and unrivalled utility features, all in one package. In addition, the refined exterior and enhanced premium interior will further elevate the joy of owning a luxury Honda 7-seater MPV,” said Honda Malaysia’s Managing Director & CEO, Madoka Chujo.

The Odyssey was originally developed for the US market to compete in the minivan segment and was a successful model. It was also available in Japan and to make it more suitable for urban conditions, its roofline was a bit lower than most MPVs so it could more easily slot into garages.

Cosmetic updates for 2022
The latest Odyssey inherits much of the DNA of its predecessors with an imposing front end to the monobox form. The new chromed grille and flanking headlight units are an interpretation of the ‘EXCITING H DESIGN!!!’ which has a ‘Solid Wing Face’ design language. At the rear, the taillight units have been revised along with a new bumper profile. Both the front and rear signal lights now have sequential signalling which gives a premium touch to the vehicle.

For this latest version, which is essentially a midcycle facelift, the interior has received premium upgrades as well as an updated dashboard design. The dashboard has a 7-inch TFT meter for the driver and an 8-inch display panel for infotainment. As would be expected of models being introduced nowadays, there is smartphone connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto so favourite apps can be access from the display panel.

Captain Cradle Seats with Ottoman
The Odyssey has always offered good cabin space with versatile layouts that makes it suitable for families as well as executives who may need to work while on the move. It comes with standard combination leather upholstery and Captain’s Cradle Seats with Ottoman on the second row. These wide and comfortable seats are like those on aircraft which allow the passenger to stretch out.

Loading luggage or other items in the boot does not require the use of hands to open the rear door. In fact, there isn’t even a need to press a button as placing a food under the rear bumper will automatically open the door. It’s great when both hands are carrying things and also if it’s raining and one hand has to hold the umbrella up.

Honda SENSING is, of course, standard and the integrated active safety systems are Adaptive Cruise Control, Collision Mitigation Braking System, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keep Assist System, Road Departure Mitigation, Lane Departure Warning, and Auto High Beam. Additionally, there is also a Multi-View Camera System with Smart Parking Assist, Blind Spot Monitor, and Cross Traffic Monitor. All these systems can not only help the driver avoid an accident but also reduce the workload to reduce fatigue on long drives.

*The Honda SENSING system, which uses a camera to scan road markings, can not only keep the vehicle within its lane but also guide it back if it unintentionally starts to move into another lane*

More information on the New Odyssey can be obtained from authorized Honda dealers. To locate a showroom in Malaysia, visit www.honda.com.my.

Honda Malaysia introduces new Genuine Engine Oils, upgraded to API SN standard

More peace of mind buying pre-owned Honda vehicles from Honda Certified Used Car dealers

Buying a used vehicle is sometimes risky as the mechanical condition may not be fully known since someone else used it before. If unlucky, the vehicle may have problems and the new owner may have to spend extra money to fix the problems. In the worst case, the vehicle could be a nightmare to own as it may keep having problems.

Now, for those who want to buy pre-owned Honda vehicles, Honda Malaysia can give more peace of mind as it is introducing Honda Certified Used Car (HCUC). This is an additional and trustworthy business channel that will offer verified, pre-owned Honda vehicles.

6 HCUC outlets
HCUC is starting off at 6 dealerships located in different regions. The dealerships are MJN Motors Sdn. Bhd. (Selangor), Tiong Nam Motor (M) Sdn. Bhd. (Selangor), Kah Motor Co. Sdn. Bhd. (Penang), Kah Motor Co. Sdn. Bhd. (Johor), Yong Ming Motor Sdn. Bhd. (Johor) and Chuan Thye Motor Sdn. Bhd. (Pahang). As demand grows, Honda Malaysia will gradually expand the number of HCUC outlets around the country.

“Honda Malaysia is committed to offering products and services of the highest quality and ensuring that all our cars, be it new or pre-owned, provide a feeling of joy to the car owners. As such, we have rolled out HCUC as an additional option for customers to own their preferred Honda cars and enjoy being a Honda owner,” said Honda Malaysia’s Managing Director & CEO, Madoka Chujo.

Not more than 5 years old
Through HCUC, customers can choose different models of Honda pre-owned cars. All the Honda pre-owned cars will be no more than 5 years old, with no more than 100,000 kms of usage. Honda Malaysia ensures that the cars sold by HCUC have undergone a thorough and stringent 288-point inspection conducted by Honda Certified Inspectors.

This inspection covers the condition of the engine and transmission, functionality and undercarriage as well as the exterior and interior conditions. This will enable customers to drive the vehicles with peace of mind knowing that they are certified to be in good condition, equipped with genuine parts and free from major accidents and flood damage.

For the convenience of customers, the registration and transfer process will be done by the HCUC dealers.

*Owners of vehicles purchased from HCUC can also enjoy the full range of aftersales services from authorised Honda dealers throughout the country.*

Extended warranty provided
Additionally, vehicles purchased from HCUC will have an additional one-year extended warranty on top of the existing warranty that is still valid (terms and conditions apply). Needless to say, once they are owners of the vehicles, they can enjoy the same high standards of aftersales support from all authorised Honda dealerships.

In addition, customers will have access to the Honda network of authorised dealerships nationwide such as sending their certified pre-owned cars to any Honda dealerships for after-sales services.

For more information on the location of HCUC dealerships, visit www.honda.com.my or call Honda Malaysia’s Toll-Free number at 1-800-88-2020.

Honda Malaysia aims to sell 80,000 units in 2022 and introduce Certified Used Car business

Honda City Hatchback RS e:HEV price announced as RM107,783

Following the launch of the Honda City Hatchback in December, for which there are more than 5,200 bookings, Honda Malaysia has now announced the price of the City Hatchback RS e:HEV which was not revealed earlier. Without insurance, the price is RM107,783.09 and this price without sales tax will be applicable until June 30, 2022. There are 3 colour options – Ignite Red Metallic, Meteoroid Gray Metallic and Platinum White Pearl.

This is the first time that the City model is offered in a hatchback bodystyle and the flagship version also comes with e:HEV technology that uses the 1.5-litre Sports intelligent Multi-Mode Drive (i-MMD) powertrain coupled with Electric Continuous Variable Transmission (e-CVT). The hybrid powertrain produces 109 ps/253 Nm and can run in hybrid, engine or even fully electric mode, the latter available for a limited distance depending on the battery pack level.

*The City Hatchback’s e:HEV system can run on just the electric motor powered by the battery pack, saving fuel and with no exhaust emissions.*

However, as a hybrid electric vehicle, there is no need for recharging from an external source as the battery pack will recharge while the car is being driven. Recharging constantly takes place either by the engine or through regeneration during braking and coasting. This is therefore a more practical approach to electrification for Malaysians at this time when the network of recharging stations is still very small.

Specific to the City Hatchback are a Gloss Black front Grill, Solid Wing and Door Mirrors, and standard are LED headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights, LED front foglights, a rear spoiler and LED rear light units, along with 16-inch alloy wheels.

The interior follows the layout of the sedan and comes with red-stitched Ultrasuede® Seats. The City Hatchback offers additional versatility as it comes with the 4-mode ULTRA Seat, a feature that originated in the first Jazz. The ULTRA Seat allows for different seating layouts in the cabin to suit different usage requirements, including one for carrying tall items like plants.

*With the ULTRA Seat, it is possible to fold the seats upright to create more vertical space to carry tall items like plants.*

This variant also comes with a 7-inch Interactive TFT meter, 8-inch Display Audio with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Connectivity as well as rear air conditioning. Other first-in-segment features are Honda LaneWatch to monitor the blind spot on the left side, Electric Parking Brake and Remote Engine Start.

*Honda LaneWatch uses a small camera on the left door mirror to monitor the blind spot behind the car and display real-time images on the centre screen.*

Like the City Sedan RS e:HEV, this hatchback variant also has Honda SENSING, the camera-based driver-assistance system which allows Level 2 autonomous driving as well. Honda SENSING consists of Adaptive Cruise Control, Collision Mitigation Braking System, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keep Assist System, Road Departure Mitigation, Lane Departure Warning and Auto High Beam. With the systems active, the workload on the driver is less so fatigue on long journeys can be reduced as well as motoring safety being enhanced.

Honda CONNECT is also included and this smart Telematics Technology allows owners to connect with the City Hatchback via a smartphone application. The owner can be easily informed of the car’s status as well as other useful information.

For more information or to locate a showroom for a test-drive, visit www.honda.com.my.

New Honda City Hatchback officially launched, priced from RM75,670

11th generation Honda Civic Sedan arrives in Malaysia, with 1.5-litre turbo engine for entire range

Although 2021 saw businesses being disrupted, with an extended lockdown in the middle of the year, many car companies were able to continue their planning, thanks to online meetings with their principals overseas. If such a situation had occurred in the 1980s, perhaps a lot of projects would have to be suspended and delayed.

Now that things are returning to normal (although there is also the ‘new normal’), it is apparent that in companies like Honda Malaysia, a lot of planning was done during 2021 and while launches were probably delayed, now the new models are being rushed into the market. And even before the excitement of the launch of the City Hatchback has died down, the all-new 11^th generation of the Civic Sedan has been officially launched today – less than 12 months after its global debut in America.

The Civic would be the longest locally-assembled Honda model, having been assembled since the first generation in the mid-1970s. It was assembled at the Oriental Assemblers plant in Johor then, and then when Honda Malaysia built its own factory in Melaka in the early 2000s, assembly of all Honda models was transferred there.

For the new generation, Honda Malaysia has three variants – the Civic RS, Civic 1.5V and Civic 1.5E. This time round, there is only the proven turbocharged VTEC Earth Dreams engine offered. This means all the variants get the same output of 182 ps with 240 Nm of torque, which is more powerful than a conventional 2.4-litre engine. Power delivery to the front wheels is via a CVT.

According to Maduko Chujo, Managing Director & CEO of Honda Malaysia, the company is also looking at the possibility of offering a hybrid powertrain with the Civic later on. Such a version exists for the new Civic Hatchback in some markets and so it could be also used in the sedan. Or Honda Malaysia might add the Hatchback to its range, a bigger brother to the new City Hatchback. But we’ll probably know if and when this is going to happen by seeing what appears in the Thai market which usually gets new products before Malaysia.

The new styling retains some elements of the previous generation but also has a refreshed character with a low-slung look to the profile. The use of Laser Brazing technology (for the first time at the plant), gives a smooth and clean roofline that makes the car look sleeker.

Compared to the tenth generation, the frontal appearance looks less aggressive with a ‘thin and light’ appearance. It would appear that the EXCITING H!!! DESIGN philosophy which was adopted in 2013 is evolving to something new. The Solid Wing Face that has been in the frontal character is no longer evident and a simpler form is being introduced, which also has some elements used in the new HR-V.

Likewise, at the rear, the distinctive ‘claw’ lighting signature that identified the 10^th generation from far away is also gone. The new LED rear combi units wrap around the corners and taper towards the centre.

As with other models, there is the option of adding Modulo accessories for a sportier look or more functionality. There are 5 different packages ranging from RM1,241 to RM7,089. These can be specified at the time of purchases so they can be included in the total cost of the car for calculation of the H-P loan.

The overall size is almost the same as before with the only 2-digit increases being in the length (+30 mm) and wheelbase (+33 mm). Usually, extending the wheelbase would improve rear space and comfort, which Honda says is the case.

*The first Civic was half the weight and almost a metre shorter than its 11th generation successor launched 50 years later.*

Comparing to the first generation model which was launched in 1972, it’s amazing how the size of the car has changed. The overall length of the first generation, which was a hatchback, was almost 1 metre shorter – around 3.5 metres versus the 2022 model’s 4.7 metres. In 50 years, it has widened to 1.8 metres, 300 mm more, and not surprisingly, being a much bigger car, the latest generation weighs around 1,350 kgs whereas the original was about half that weight!

[Click here for our first driving impressions]

The chassis of the new Civic has been further stiffened, not only for better resistance to collisions but also to improve handling and ride comfort. Compared to the tenth generation, there’s an 8% increase in torsional rigidity and 13% increase in bending rigidity. Over 10 generations, the Civic has been continuously moving upwards in its image and with this elevation towards a more premium product, Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) levels have had to be reduced. In the latest models, NVH is lower as a result of the application of insulators, floor undercover and spray foam in the chassis areas.

For the new interior, the designers looked at the early Civics, particularly the first one. Those who remember that first generation will see some styling elements in the dashboard of the latest Civic. Some good ideas are still good and so the original design approach of ‘Man-Maximum, Machine-Minimum’ (or ‘M/M’) was used.

While the shelf-like design of the original dashboard has not been revived, the narrow Honeycomb Mesh Panel that runs across two-thirds of the fascia (and also on the right side of the steering column) is in some ways reminiscent of the first generation design. The metal panel 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.

The interior designers obviously did a lot of studies on the control knobs and switchgear and have chosen the right types for different adjustments. While touch and slide controls are cool and futuristic, they are not necessarily practical. The fan speed and temperature adjustments, for example, are far easier to make with rotary knobs. To adjust them by touching a panel means you have to be precise about where you touch and you also have to look, which isn’t good for safety. With rotary knobs, you don’t have to look and for changing modes, pushbuttons are provided.

On the top of the dashboard sits a 9-inch HD display panel (7 inches for Civic 1.5E) for the infotainment system. Manufacturers now no longer need to worry about providing navigation software, thanks to the connectivity provided by Apple CarPlay and Android Auto which enables compatible smartphones to send popular apps to the display screen from which they can also be operated. Thus issues like updating maps are irrelevant as apps like Waze and Google Maps will do that and for music, there’s Spotify to call on. And even here, the designers have wisely chosen to provide a rotary knob for adjusting the volume, rather than a touch slider on the screen.

Over in the driver’s area, the instrument panel uses a 7-inch TFT display which is clear and sharp in all lighting conditions. As before, there are steering wheel mounted switches for making adjustments and calls without taking the hands off the steering wheel or looking away from the road ahead. With the Civic RS and 1.5V, paddle shifters are also provided for manually changing CVT ‘gears’.

*The driver can choose from 3 driving modes to suit personal preference or driving conditions.*

Seats look like, well, seats and unless you study the construction in detail, you won’t see any difference. However, there are improvements in the seat design to give better support and reduce tiredness on long drives. The seat frame has been designed so that the body posture is better and for the drivers in the RS and 1.5V, 8-way power adjustments make it easy to get the ideal position.

For convenience, there is Remote Start available (1.5V and RS) which allows starting the engine from a distance so that the air-conditioner can start running to cool down the interior. The doors will also automatic lock after you have left the car and walked 2 metres away or after 30 seconds.

Like other manufacturers, Honda also has its own suite of active safety systems where a number of different systems work together to help the driver avoid an accident or if it cannot be avoided, to reduce the damaging or injurious effects. In the 10^th generation Civic, these systems integrated as Honda SENSING captured data for analysis using a single-lens camera and a millimetre-wave radar which scanned the road ahead.

For the 11^th generation, the radar is no longer used and instead, there is a new camera system with a wider field of view (100 degrees, double the width of the previous camera). Where the radar was used to measure the distance to a vehicle ahead, this function can now be done by the camera. Honda engineers are confident that the camera system is better than the previous camera/radar system, even in bad weather conditions. Of course, the driver always needs to be aware that the camera’s view can be obscured in very heavy rain so in such situations, care should be taken rather than rely on Honda SENSING.

The system has automatic emergency braking capability, adaptive cruise control which works right to standstill (and resumes automatically), automatic headlight adjustment between high and low beams, lane and road departure detection and warning as well as keeping the car within its lane. Newly added to Honda SENSING is a feature that alerts the driver when the stopped car ahead moves off. How useful this feature is remains to be seen although it might help in congested conditions where drivers will be reminded to move on when the car ahead has departed from its spot.

With the RS and 1.5V, there is also the Honda LaneWATCH system which is a blindspot monitoring system for the left side of the car. This uses a camera mounted on the door mirror which provides an image along the side of the car. The image is shown on the centre display panel whenever the left signal is activated and the driver can know if there is another car or motorcycle coming up along the side. It’s a noteworthy feature as it reduces the amount of turning the head has to do, compared to having to look for a flashing icon on the mirror (as with other systems).

*Honda LaneWATCH system provides a view along the left side of the car.*

The new Civic is also set up for Honda CONNECT, the third model in Malaysia to have this telematics technology. Using a smartphone, the owner can view information on the vehicle as well as use remote and security applications. The system also has vehicle tracking which is useful if it is stolen as support services will be able to locate it and inform relevant authorities to recover it.

The new Civic is now in all authorized Honda showrooms nationwide for viewing or test-drives. To locate a showroom in Malaysia, visit www.honda.com.my.

New Honda Civic gets top safety rating from ASEAN NCAP (w/VIDEO)

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