MPV Archives

New GranAce MPV to be unveiled by Toyota at Tokyo Motorshow

The Hiace van has been a big seller for Toyota all over the world (to the extent that it has been ‘cloned’ in some countries) but just as with the Liteace before, tougher regulations concerning frontal collisions have been forcing manufacturers to come out with new designs that place a more significant crumple zone in front of the cabin. The traditional window vans have had their engines under the cabin with no ‘nose’ at all but in more developed countries, the lack of an extended front end is no longer accceptable.

The strict regulations have made it difficult in the European market, which is why Toyota collaborated with Peugeot and Citroen 6 years ago to share a van model that it sells as the ProAce. However, Toyota must have been keen to develop its own model too and at the coming Tokyo Motorshow, it will unveil the GranAce as a new model which could be a transitional van for the Hiace range.

Premium MPV
The new GranAce is presented as a premium MPV and measures 5.3 metres in overall length, 1.97 metres wide and 1990 mm high. It sits on a front-wheel drive platform with a wheelbase of 3210 mm and has a trailing-link rigid-axle rear suspension. High rigidity for better collision protection is achieved by the adoption of a ring-shaped frame, which also contributes to a more comfortable ride with stable handling.

The large radiator grille embellished with metallic accents flows seamlessly into the headlamps, which project in vertical and horizontal directions, creating the bold ‘face’ we have come to see in the newer Japanese MPVs. The distinctive LED daytime running lamps complement projector twin-lens LED headlamps that flow into the decorative chrome frame.

There are 2 seating layouts available: the 6-seater with seats in three rows of two, and the 8-seater with seats in 4 rows of two. A black-infused instrument panel creates a luxurious atmosphere, featuring metallic accents on the air-conditioner outlets and wood-grain embellishment in front of the front passenger seat. The meter hood is wrapped in leather and genuine stitching further lends an air of quality.

Better Toyota Safety Sense
Toyota Safety Sense will, of course, be standard and the latest suite has improved sensing functions that make use of the Pre-collision safety system to detect pedestrians during the day and at night, as well as cyclists during the day. Other safety systems include Intelligent Clearance Sonar with Parking Support Brakes (Stationary Objects) that helps reduce and/or mitigate damage from collisions during low-speed driving in parking lots.

The GranAce is intended for Asian markets initially although its positioning within the Hiace family and the future of the Hiace remain unknown. It could become a flagship variant or it could become the basis of the next generation. For now, only one engine is mentioned – the 1GD 2.8-litre clean turbodiesel engine with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The model will be produced by Toyota Auto Body, a Toyota subsidiary which manufactures selected SUV and commercial vehicles models.

Visit www.toyota.com.my to know more about MPV models available in Malaysia

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China Eco-Car Assessment Program makes Geely work harder at attacking NVH

New car assessment programs (NCAPs) in most countries focus mainly on safety which is a high priority to consumers these days. Since the 1970s, these NCAPs – which typically include crash tests that provide data for analysis and evaluation – have constantly evolved and set tougher demands. Although passing them is not required by government agencies, most carmakers strive to achieve the best results (5 stars) as this can influence a purchase decision. As such, the organizations managing the NCAPs have contributed to pushing safety standards upwards and making motoring safer.

Assessing ecological design
China, which only began active automobile development from the mid-1980s, also has its own NCAP (C-NCAP) which has also focused on safety since being formulated in 2006. Now, a new type of NCAP has been added – the China Eco-Car Assessment Program (C-ECAP) which is considered the most stringent vehicle assessment test in China to date. Unlike the C-NCAP, it evaluates a vehicle’s ecological design.

The program studies in-vehicle air quality, noise, materials used, combined fuel consumption, exhaust emissions, end of life recyclability, whole lifecycle greenhouse emissions, and component life cycle. Only 1% of vehicles put forward so far have received a high passing score. In a recent test, Geely’s first MPV, the Jia Ji, scored 101.24 out of 105 points, including a perfect score for interior noise quality.

Bringing NVH down
When developing the Jia Ji, Geely engineers paid meticulous attention to the levels of NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) and aimed to limit external noises to a maximum of 38.1 decibels at idle. To do so, 150 noise-reduction elements were installed throughout the vehicle and Active Noise Reduction (ANC) technology was used.

NVH characteristics define a manufacturer’s capability, an indicator of quality in automotive manufacturing and a reflection of the car’s overall quality. As recently as 6 years ago, knowledge of NVH and how to address it was still lacking within the Chinese automotive industry. This was why there was a big gap in quality between cars of the Chinese brands and those of established global players. Foreign models had much development in sound insulation aspects, leading to a higher perception of quality.

Measuring NVH is extremely difficult because it’s subjective to each user’s feelings. This ‘metaphysical’ nature of NVH performance also makes R&D extremely difficult. The first stage is reducing the noise and vibration of the whole vehicle to a minimum. Then comes sound quality because lowering NVH is not just about eliminating all sounds as certain characteristics are desirable. For example, enthusiasts want the louder and more assertive engine sound for sportscars while those in luxury models want quietness at even high speeds. The third stage builds upon the second and aims to integrate specific NVH qualities into the DNA of different vehicles customized according to the models positioning and desired user experience.

To reach the third stage of integrating desirable NVH qualities into the vehicle’s DNA, Geely has been developing a whole new generation of advanced vehicle architectures with NVH in mind from the very beginning. The CMA Compact Modular Architecture is one example of this.

Only NVH lab of its kind in China
The importance of NVH to Geely can be seen in their investment of a NVH laboratory at the Geely Research Institute. The NVH lab is the only one in China with a dedicated abnormal noise and vibration testing room with sound isolation and environmental controls. The lab can conduct road simulation tests in various simulated environments, evaluate the structural durability of the whole vehicle, and accurately identify abnormal noise from anywhere in the vehicle.

For NVH testing, road simulation in closed room is preferred to outdoor road testing because results can easily be replicated in a controlled environment; however, the technical and space requirements are immense, making this kind of lab uncommon in the industry.

In 2018, the Geely Auto Group released their iNTEC suite of technologies which includes G-Blue, Geely’s focus on eco-friendly technologies. The Group has obtained quite a number of patents for new technologies in the field of environment friendly materials, ecological designs, odour management systems, and intelligent air quality management systems. No doubt, many of these technologies will also be shared with Proton and provide Malaysians with even better vehicles.

Toyota’s IMV models – Hilux, Fortuner and Innova – get upgrades

The Toyota Hilux, Fortuner and Innova are collectively referred to as the IMV models, referring to the ‘Innovative international Multi-purpose Vehicles’ project in the early 2000s which was one of Toyota’s biggest industrial investments. The project established an optimal production and supply system for the three models almost entirely outside Japan for the first time in the company’s history.

The first generation of IMV models debuted in 2005 and since then, they have undergone constant improvement and upgrading and in 2019, the latest Toyota Hilux pick-up range gets upgraded features as well as a new variant. The Fortuner SUV and Innova MPV have also received enhancements.

Order-taking for the new models begins at all authorized Toyota showrooms nationwide from today (August 16, 2019).

New Hilux variant
For the Hilux range, a new Black Edition replaces the Hilux 2.8 L-Edition. This new edition has a bolder appearance with an exterior colour theme of black and dark grey. A glossy black finish is applied to the door handles, foglamp covers, wing mirrors and on its 18-inch alloy wheels, while dark grey is used for the bumper guards. Dark grey is also used for the grille with contrasting black to make it even more outstanding.

The Hilux 2.8 Black Edition sits the top of the range with a selling price of RM139,888 in Peninsular Malaysia (private registration, without insurance). Other Hilux variants available include the 2.4 Single Cab M/T, 2.4 STD M/T, 2.4 G M/T, 2.4 G A/T and 2.4 L-Edition A/T, priced between RM90,000 and RM124,888.

The new variant also gets a new infotainment system with 6.75-inch display for a clearer view and easier operation. With Android Auto and Apple CarPlay available as standard, seamless connectivity is possible for all compatible smartphones (with the required software is installed). This gives the driver access to favourite apps (Waze, Spotify, etc) right on the dashboard, enhancing motoring pleasure.

UMW Toyota Motor is also introducing a Vehicle Telematics System (VTS) which is strongly recommended. The 3-year subscription fee is free if the customer also purchases the Toyota insurance package. In addition, there is a Rear Digital Video Recorder (DVR) to supplement the one installed at the front. This additional DVR can provide useful evidence in the event of a rear-end collision.

Customers can also include with their purchase optional Advanced Safety & Security features such as the Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) on the wing mirrors and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) to detect vehicles approaching from either side when reversing out.

Upgrades for the Fortuner
The Fortuner 2.7 SRZ and 2.4 VRZ now have Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as standard, together with a large 9-inch display for the infotainment system. These provide seamless connectivity with most smartphones that have the required software installed. The large display makes viewing of information as well as operation much easier.

The Fortuner 2.4 variant now has 7 airbags as well for added occupant protection all round. The additional airbags cover the side windows, enhancing protection during side impacts as well as reducing the possibility of occupants being ejected from the cabin.

Customers can add a rear Digital Video Recorder (DVR) to complement the standard front unit with their purchase of a new Fortuner. The devices are professionally installed by UMWT’s own personnel who have been specially trained to ensure that the quality of workmanship is as high as the rest of the vehicle.

The price of Fortuner 2.7 SRZ A/T and 2.4 VRZ A/T has not changed. However, the 2.4 A/T is now priced at RM171,500 (Peninsular Malaysia, without insurance).

Innova upgrades
Like the Fortuner, the Innova 2.0X and 2.0G variants now have Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as standard along with the new and larger 9-inch display for its infotainment system. This will make viewing of information as well as operation much easier.

The Blind Spot Monitor system (BSM) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert system (RCTA) are available as an option to owners. These two active safety systems can help to reduce collisions with other vehicles which may not be visible to the driver in certain circumstances.

Customers can also include optional Digital Video Recorders (DVRs) at both the front and rear of the cabin (pictured below) . By ordering them prior to purchase, installation can be done at UMWT’s own Accessories Centre. Furthermore, the cost of the accessories can be included in the total financing package.

There are 3 variants of the latest Innova to choose from, all powered by an efficient and proven 2.0-litre petrol engine. The variants are the Innova 2.0X A/T, Innova 2.0G A/T and Innova 2.0 E A/T. There are no price changes for the MPV.

More information on the latest models can be found at toyota.com.my or by calling the Toyota freephone line 1-800-8-TOYOTA (869682).

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Perodua Alza dikemaskini untuk 2018 – Dari RM51,490

Kereta jenis MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) paling laris dan juga paling berpatutan kini telah dikemaskinikan untuk tahun 2018 dengan pelancaran generasi terbaru Perodua Alza. Kini dengan empat varian berbeza, Perodua Alza 2018 kini boleh didapati dari RM51,490 hingga RM62,690 (harga atas jalan tanpa insurans). (more…)

Perodua Alza – M’sia’s Favourite 7-Seater MPV Now With New Looks, More Equipment & Better Value

The nation’s most popular and most affordable seven-seater Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) is now up to date for 2018, as Perodua officially introduces the latest iteration of the Alza to the Malaysian market. Priced from RM51,490 to RM62,690 (OTR without insurance), the latest Perodua Alza comes in Standard (MT), Standard (AT), SE (AT) and Advance (AT) variants. All are powered by a 1.5 litre 3SZ-VE DVVT engine that’s connected to a five-speed manual transmission on the Standard MT and a four-speed automatic transmission on all other variants.

Perodua Sales Sdn Bhd Managing Director Dato’ Dr Zahari Husin said, “Our latest Perodua Alza continues to offer the comfort, practicality, versatility and ample room for seven that Malaysians have loved and adored for nearly a decade. With an abundance of storage compartments and flexible seating configurations, the latest Alza is perfect for family outings and everyday use in line with its ‘Versatile as You’ tagline,” he said, adding that over 344,200 units have been sold since the Alza’s birth in 2009.”

New to all Alza variants are redesigned instrument panel graphics, a new-look centre cluster and a two-motion remote control key (press once to unlock driver’s door, double-press to unlock all doors). Air-con flow to the third row is now better thanks to new fixed fins between the front centre air vents, an improved evaporator and enhanced heat-exchange piping.

All variants get front fog lamps, a rear spoiler, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, solar and security window film, reverse sensors and 15-inch alloys that are finished in silver on the Standard variant and titanium on SE and Advance variants.

Standard and SE variants get a new audio system with USB and Bluetooth functionality, while SE and Advance variants benefit from a bolder and more prominent appearance, courtesy of a new front bumper with a larger lower intake, a new twin-bar front grille and new side skirts, while a new rear bumper and tailgate garnish round up the changes at the back.

Featured on the SE and Advance variants are new-design leather seats and front corner sensors, while the Advance exclusively gets a roof-mounted monitor and an Android-based touch-screen multimedia system with Smart Link, Bluetooth, navigation and reverse camera functions.

“Recognising customers’ fondness for personalising their vehicles, Perodua is introducing a range of unique GearUp accessories for the Alza, for the first time. These include exterior cosmetic add-ons, quilted seat covers and sun shades,” Dato’ Dr Zahari said. On the safety front, dual front airbags, ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist and ISOFIX child seat points in the middle row are standard across the Alza line-up, netting all variants a four-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating.

“The order books are now open for the latest Perodua Alza, which will hit our showrooms nationwide in stages beginning 6 September. See it in the metal, experience it and take it for a spin – our authorised sales advisors will be more than happy to serve you, assist you and answer any queries you might have,” said Dato’ Dr Zahari.

The latest Perodua Alza is offered with a five-year/150,000 km warranty (whichever comes first). Available colours are Granite Grey (new to the Alza, exclusive to SE and Advance variants), Ivory White, Glittering Silver, Mystical Purple and Electric Blue. Prices are as below:

Perodua Alza Standard (MT) RM51,490

Perodua Alza Standard (AT) RM54,290

Perodua Alza SE (AT) RM56,890

Perodua Alza Advance (AT) RM62,690

Download the Brochure here: 2018 Perodua Alza brochure

Download the Price List here: 2018 Perodua Alza Price List

Download the GearUP Brochure here: Alza GearUp brochure

All prices are on-the-road (OTR) without insurance for Peninsular Malaysia

Kia Grand Carnival launched in Malaysia

Kia has officially launched its highly anticipated people mover, the Grand Carnival. The 8-seat MPV is a marked improvement over its predecessor as it features a sleeker silhouette, spacious interior and improved use of quality materials.

Measuring 5,115mm long, 1985mm wide and 1740mm high, the new Grand Carnival features a longer wheelbase than the previous model at 3,060mm. It now has better headroom thanks in part to lower positioned seat cushions, increased legroom for passengers and the roof no longer slopes to the tailgate, giving rise to better headroom for the third row of passengers.

Conforming to Kia’s current design language, the vehicle features a chrome tiger nose grille, elongated headlights that wrap around the front fascia which provides the vehicle with a slightly aggressive look.

“The sophisticated All New Grand Carnival appears sleek and bold with striking features and design that makes it stand out among other MPVs”, said Dato’ Samson Anand George, Group Chief Operating Officer, Automotive, Naza Corporation Holdings Sdn Bhd.

The same is true for the rear, which features broad tail lamps and metal surfaces. Unlike the vehicle it replaces, this Grand Carnival’s tailgated is now electronic and automated, meaning it will open the moment the vehicle senses that the key is in close proximity of it. Both sliding doors are electrically powered and as such, can be opened and closed with a push of a button.

Like the current generation of Kia vehicles, this one features a rather well laid out interior and the most noticeable of the lot is the 4.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It has a MP3 CD player and integrated six speaker setup, USB and AUX connectivity and plays nicely with the reverse camera. The dashboard has two glove compartments stacked vertically, enabling increased storage capacity. The seats are wrapped in leather, front and second row seats have overhead consoles above them and tri-zone fully automatic air-con ventilators.

As a means to increase cargo space, the third row of seats can be folded flat to increase total volume. The second row features a seat that can be removed to increase space or offer better legroom for the third row passengers.

Under the front armrest, more storage space is available which is sufficient to fit a handbag or a book. Passengers in the rear have their own storage spaces where they can place items of their choosing.

Powering the new Grand Carnival is a 2.2-litre CRDi turbocharged diesel engine that’s mated to a six speed automatic transmission. the engine develops 190bhp and 440Nm of torque, which should offer sufficient power to this people mover.

Like its predecessor, the new vehicle maintains the use of MacPherson front and Multi-link rear suspension. The hydraulic rebound spring, stiffer suspension bars and cross-member bush mountings is said to improve bump absorption and increase passenger comfort.

As for wheels, it gets 18-inch alloy ones and features a myriad of safety equipment including front and rear parking sensors, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Hill Start Assist System, six airbags and HID with Daytime Running Lights (DRL).

Kia is currently offering the Kia Grand Carnival 2.2D EX for RM185,888 and the 2.2DKX for RM165,888. Visit the company wesbsite or your nearest dealership for more information.

Kia Grand Carnival to be launched soon

We’ve known for sometime about the impending launch of the all new Grand Carnival, and now Naza Kia Malaysia Sdn Bhd, has confirmed that it will be sometime soon as it has just opened bookings for its people carrier.

A refresh of the original Grand Carnival is a welcomed addition to the rather stagnant MPV market, and by the looks of things, it could spice things up quite a bit. The new vehicle, looks very different from the one it replaces as Kia sought to fuse decent looks with family carrying capabilities. Kia says that its engineers spent extensive time designing the interior to offer decent legroom and ample luggage space even when fully loaded with eight occupants.

Other than the extensive redesign both inside and out, some of the more notable features of the Grand Carnical are the leather seats, power sliding door and tailgate, 3rd row passenger easy access system, push start button and HID head lamps with Daytime Running Lights. Kia didn’t skimp on safety either as the vehicle comes equipped with 6 airbags, electronic stability control and hill-start assist system. It also boasts receiving a 5-star rating based on the crash tests conducted by the ANCAP (Australiasian New Car Assessment Program) and NHTSA (National Highway Traffice Safety Administration).

Kia managed to bag a number of awards including JD Power Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) award, Top Safety Pick from the U.S. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the 2015 Ward’s 10 Best Interiors award.

Speaking of the new Grand Carnival, Dato’ Samson Anand George, Group Chief Operating Officer, Automotive Group, Naza Corporation Holdings Sdn Bhd., said, “Despite 2016 being a challenging year for Kia in Malaysia, we managed to contain a better percentage than the national total industry volume’s negative growth. For 2017, we have foretasted our sales volume to increase by 25% and the All New Grand Carnival will play a pivotal role in achieving this target.”

Under the hood of the Grand Carnival is a 2.2-litre CDRi turbodiesel engine with a variable geometry turbo. It produces 190bhp and 440Nm of torque, which should prove useful when lugging the family around and especially when its to Genting.

Potential buyers can make their bookings at any Kia dealership in Malaysia including those in Sabah and Sarawak. So, if you are interest a Peter Schreyer people mover, head on over to your nearest Kia dealership.

Piston.my

MPV

New GranAce MPV to be unveiled by Toyota at Tokyo Motorshow

China Eco-Car Assessment Program makes Geely work harder at attacking NVH

Toyota’s IMV models – Hilux, Fortuner and Innova – get upgrades

Perodua Alza dikemaskini untuk 2018 – Dari RM51,490

Perodua Alza – M’sia’s Favourite 7-Seater MPV Now With New Looks, More Equipment & Better Value

Kia Grand Carnival launched in Malaysia

Kia Grand Carnival to be launched soon

Citroën C4 Picasso arrives in Malaysia @ RM148,888

New GranAce MPV to be unveiled by Toyota at Tokyo Motorshow

China Eco-Car Assessment Program makes Geely work harder at attacking NVH

Toyota’s IMV models – Hilux, Fortuner and Innova – get upgrades

Perodua Alza dikemaskini untuk 2018 – Dari RM51,490

Perodua Alza – M’sia’s Favourite 7-Seater MPV Now With New Looks, More Equipment & Better Value

Kia Grand Carnival launched in Malaysia

Kia Grand Carnival to be launched soon

Citroën C4 Picasso arrives in Malaysia @ RM148,888

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