SUV Archives

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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Infiniti gets award for adoption of advanced high-tensile steel in new QX50

Weight has long been known as something that must be reduced as much as possible in a car. Lowering the weight brings benefits to fuel efficiency and handling, two important aspects that engineers keep trying to improve all the time. However, back in the days before computer-aided engineering (CAD), it was difficult to achieve weigh reductions and manufacturing technology then was also not able to handle advanced steel materials.

The advent of high-tensile steel was a big leap forward for the auto industry. This type of steel has high strength but the greater strength does not require extra weight. In fact, compared to conventional steel, high-tensile steel is lighter yet stronger.

Stronger steel produces a number of clear benefits for the customer. The overall weight reduction improves fuel economy, while the increased strength builds on existing safety. Since the steel is stronger, the sections become smaller and more interior space is available, producing environments that are more open for the driver and passengers.

Use of advanced high-tensile steel gets award
When creating the latest QX50, engineers at Infiniti, Nissan’s premium brand, went into molecular detail to ensure it was the best it could be in every aspect, and the science behind a more advanced high-tensile steel used in the QX50 has just received a prestigious global award.

One of the challenges of very high-tensile steel is it can be difficult to work with in the manufacturing process, limiting the complexity of parts and adoption in a new vehicle. In order to make this world’s first steel compatible for mass production, engineers worked directly with a steel supplier to formulate a brand new, high-strength, lightweight and highly formable steel for the model.

980 MPa steel supersedes 590 MPa steel
The new 980 MPa steel, created using a specially developed formula, has superseded the traditional 590 MPa steel. As part of the work around the new steel, an academic paper on ‘The application of 980 MPa advanced high strength steel with high formability’ was chosen for The SAE/AISI Sydney H. Melbourne Award for Excellence in the Advancement of Automotive Steel Sheet. It is awarded by SAE International, a global nonprofit organization based in the USA, which has more than 128,000 participating engineers and researchers working in aerospace, passenger car and commercial vehicle industries.

Around 27% of the QX50 body is made from special steels – an increase of 21% over the previous generation – resulting in a 23 kg mass reduction overall. Within the front of the car alone, the adoption of high-tensile steel has provided a 13 kg weight reduction, while frontal energy absorption improved by 10%.

With the QX50 being the first car in the world to use 980 MPa steel, Infiniti will look into adopting it in more applications in coming years. The goal is to achieve 25% or more of the vehicle weight made from advanced high-strength steel, benefiting customers with reduced weight, improved fuel economy and enhanced levels of safety.

Visit www.infiniti.com.my to know more about the models available in Malaysia.

Lexus GXOR Concept is for off-roaders who want Lexus comfort and luxury

Concept vehicles are built by carmakers for various purposes; some are intended to test certain styling ideas while others are a preview of a production model that is just around the corner. Sometimes, especially if targeting owners who are enthusiasts, a concept vehicle may show what more can be done or added to make a model more visually exciting or more capable.

Capable SUV made more capable
With the Lexus GXOR concept, Lexus worked with a company called XOverland to create a one-of-a-kind LX460 SUV that has accessories which enhance its looks and performance off-road. As it is, the LX460 is a very capable SUV since it rides on the same platform as the current Toyota land Cruiser Prado.

The customized vehicle starts off with a matte metallic gray and exclusive GXOR graphics. Incidentally, ‘GXOR’ refers to ‘GX Off Road’, which is the name of a group of owners. Lexus surprised them with this special vehicle during one of their recent events.

Accessories fitted
Some of the accessories installed include Lexus F Sport Wheels fitted with General 275/70×18 X3 tyres, Icon Vehicle Dynamics 2.5 CDC with remote reservoirs and billet control arms featuring Delta Joints, CBI Custom Stealth Winch Bumper, Frame Sliders and skidplates, Warn 9.5XPS Winch, and Maxtrax MKII Recovery Boards. All these items are available in the market for owners to install themselves.

On its part, Lexus will also have its own off-road package although, being a factory offering, it is more focused on comfort and reliability aspects rather than providing more off-road performance.

Visit www.lexus.com.my to know more about the range of SUVs available in Malaysia.

0.88% interest rate or RM6,000 cash rebate – you choose

If you’re thinking of buying a new Mitsubishi Triton in the next few months, you have a choice of either paying a lower interest rate for the high-purchase (H-P) loan or get a cash rebate of up to RM6,000 to reduce the amount of the loan taken. This is the latest offer from Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) in conjunction with the upcoming Merdeka and Malaysia Day festivities.

Some of the conditions
The offer is for three variants of the Triton VGT – Adventure X (RM135,200 without insurance), Premium with automatic transmission (RM118,600) and Premium with manual transmission (RM112,500). The special interest rate is only applicable for H-P loans taken from Maybank. Only available while stocks last and vehicles purchased must be registered by September 30, 2019.

Additionally, MMM is also offering RM4,000 cash rebates for the standard Triton VGT with either automatic or manual transmission. These variants are priced, without insurance, at RM105,990 and RM100,200, respectively.

Cash rebates for SUVs too
Prefer a SUV instead of a pick-up truck? You can save money too as there are cash rebates of up to RM6,000 for the Outlander which is available with 2.0-litre and 2.4-litre engines. Cash rebates of up to RM12,000 are also offered for the smaller ASX which has 4WD and 2WD variants.

Visit www.mitsubishi-motors.com.my to locate a showroom in Malaysia to view, test-drive or purchase the models.

New Great Wall Motors factory in Russia is the largest overseas factory built by a Chinese automobile enterprise

The new Great Wall Motors (GWM) factory at Tula, 193 kms south of Moscow in Russia, which began operations this month is the largest overseas vehicle manufacturing facility built by a Chinese automobile enterprise. It represents a new stage of development for GWM, especially for its Haval brand, in the Russian market. It is a crucial part of the ‘HAVAL 5-2-1 Globalization Strategy’ to achieve an annual sales volume of 2 million units within 5 years and become the global No.1 professional SUV brand.

The primary task of Tula Factory is to meet demand in Russia and neighbouring markets. The factory will then export more to Eastern European countries and serve as a major production base when Haval further develops the mainstream European markets.

Safe, efficient and environment-friendly
The Tula Factory has advanced manufacturing technology and tooling equipment for the 4 major production processes of stamping, welding, painting and assembly. Numerous measures have been included to ensure that the whole production process safe, efficient and environment-friendly. For example, the stamping workshop is equipped with a full-automatic closed type production line with 4 sequences. An ABB 7-axis robot is applied to transport the parts and an automatic rapid die change system is adopted to realize safe and efficient production.

The welding workshop is equipped with a large number of robots for speed and high productivity. The automation rate of main welding line is 100%, and that of sub-welding line is 40%. At the same time, NBG multi-model automatic switching flexible production line is installed for automatic switching of 3 models, with the new F7 being one of them. The F7 will be launched in Russia as the first global car of Chinese automobile brands.

The new F7 SUV has been developed to suit the needs of Russian customers. It will be offered with 1.5-litre or 2.0-litre GDIT engines and 7-speed automatic transmissions as well as all-wheel drive. It is 4620 mm long and 1846 mm wide, which places its body size between the Kia Sorento and Honda CR-V.

‘Bridgehead’ to expansion overseas
”With the completion of the Global Factory, Tula will become the ‘bridgehead’ of Great Wall Motors to expand overseas market. In the future development, Haval must go global to create globally competitive products, and build a globally influential brand as a global SUV leader,” said GWM’s Chairman, Wei Jianjun.

After 15 years of development, Russia has become one of the most mature overseas markets of Haval brand and the point of strength in its strategy. At present, there are more than 100,000 Haval vehicles in the market. By the end of 2018, there were 35 distributors in Russia and the number is to approximately double by the end of this year.

“The French Experience” Campaign By TCEC Renault Could See You in Paris!

TC Euro Cars (TCEC), the sole franchise holder for Renault vehicles in Malaysia, today announced ‘The French Experience’, a new sales campaign offering customers who purchase selected Renault models a trip for two to Paris. The campaign, which runs on 1 March – 30 April 2019, applies to either Renault’s flagship model, the premium D-segment Koleos SUV or the French automaker’s global runaway success, the chic and versatile Captur urban crossover.

Any customer who completes a purchase of either model within the campaign period will fly off on a trip for two to the capital of France, reputed for being the most beautiful and romantic of all cities and affectionately dubbed the City of Romance and Capital of Fashion. TCEC’s official travel partner for this campaign is Mayflower Holidays. “Renault’s spectrum of contemporary models now projects a distinctive Renault personality that exudes French style and finesse inside-out and under the hood,” said Kuan Kim Luen, CEO, TC Euro Cars Sdn Bhd. “This new sales campaign celebrates Renault’s French roots with an all-around French experience from the daily commute after purchasing a Renault to enjoying a unique vacation in Paris. We believe that our customers are looking for unique life experiences. And Renault vehicles bring just that,” he added.

A quintessentially French experience

Renault Captur and Koleos are two definitive embodiments of the refreshed stylistic language that has emerged from the brand’s renewed design strategy. The rejuvenated approach focuses on two key trends that will continue in upcoming Renault vehicles: French Design and Easy Life.

Consistent styling cues that promote Renault’s French design image, namely warm, simple, sensual lines with a clearly defined family face and C-shaped signature lighting, ensure both the Captur and Koleos reflect a strong and instantly recognisable Renault personality.

Both models, as with all other modern mainstream Renault cars, have also benefited from the company’s more than 120 years of passion in the automotive industry, which continues to inspire the brand’s enthusiasm for enabling people with the freedom to enjoy an easy life behind the wheel.

Through Renault’s rich heritage, which includes an equally long and deep involvement in motorsports like Formula 1, Captur and Koleos owners along with millions of Renault customers are now enjoying the benefits of engineering breakthroughs like turbocharging, improved powertrain architectures, better aerodynamics, new material development, greater fuel economy, more efficient energy recovery systems and enhanced driver response.

Building on its legacy and in embracing its vision for future mobility, Renault has embarked on the next phase of its design strategy with a new cycle of concept cars that simultaneously incorporates design thinking, latest technologies and production best practices. These concept cars will pave the way for the next generation of Renault vehicles with ever more refined, connected and pure features that represent the very best in the French motoring spirit underscored by the company’s brand signature of “Passion for Life”.

Renault Captur and Koleos: Pricing and availability

The trendy turbocharged Renault Captur crossover is available at RM107,980, excluding insurance for Peninsular Malaysia. It is now Euro 6 compliant, which means lower emissions and features engine auto stop-start as well as a new 7-inch infotainment system with offline/online navigation and internet connectivity. The infotainment system is able to support music and navigation mobile applications such as Joox and Waze to name a few.

Blending all the cues of an urban crossover that modern drivers have to come to expect, the trendy turbocharged Renault Captur also features expressive exterior styling with chic two-tone body colours, premium black combination leather seats, sliding rear seats for more boot space, 7-inch infotainment system with reverse camera and navigation, four high efficiency airbags and excellent fuel efficiency.

The Renault Captur has been the best-selling crossover model in its class in Europe, with global sales of over 1 million units. A premium D-segment SUV, the Renault Koleos is priced at RM173,840. It features best class-leading interior space with refinements that match a luxury car in addition to a 2.5-litre petrol engine, a large 8.7-inch touchscreen R-LINK 2 multimedia system, customisable LED cabin lighting, premium combination leather seats, six airbags, power tailgate (in selected models) and blind spot warning system.

All prices of vehicles stated are on-the-road inclusive of SST, without insurance, for Peninsular Malaysia and private individual registration only. For more information about Renault in Malaysia, please visit www.renault.com.my or www.facebook.com/RenaultMalaysia.

VIDEO: 2019 Proton X70 – Official Media Drive @ Langkawi: Part 1!

That’s right folks Piston.my has arrived safely at the venue of the much-anticipated ‘official’ media drive of the new Proton X70 SUV in Langkawi. I know many of you may be asking why of all places, Langkawi? Well, for one thing traffic away from town is pretty sparse, and the B-roads here are quite awesome, based on previous media drives that have been conducted on this island. Plus I’m not complaining, not with views like this….

But let’s not get ahead of ourselves, we’d just landed and instead of the usual express bus to ferry us to the hotel, Proton had arranged a fleet of X70’s replete with white-gloved chauffeurs to handle this task, which meant I got to shoot a very quick video from the back seat, and talk to the X70 for the first time! Here it is…

Stay tuned for more to come! – Chris Wee.

FEATURE: Why 2019 Is Going To Be A Good Year For Trucks & SUVs! [+Videos]

Yes, 2019 is indeed shaping up to be a stellar year for Truck and SUV fans across the nation, and here’s just a taste of what’s to come!

LAND ROVER

Thanks to AutoExpress, we’re getting a first glimpse of the all-new 2019 Land Rover Defender. So who said the LR Defender was dead eh? You just can’t kill a Defender….

“The all-new Land Rover Defender will be revealed within the next 12 months, likely to be towards the end of 2019, and new official images have given us our best look yet at the iconic SUV in development. The latest image shows a prototype of the all-new Defender under going off-road testing in North America as part of its grueling test cycle. The vehicle will be subjected to temperatures as low as -40 Celsius and as high as 48 Celsius and at attitudes as high as 13,000ft.” – Auto Express.

FORD

As we all know, late last year, Ford Malaysia finally launched the much-awaited Ranger Raptor, (<–link) but in addition to that, they also introduced new variants of the Ranger 4×4 in the form of the XL, XLT, XLT+ (below) and Wildtrak. In total there are 9 variants of the new Ranger, including the aforementioned Raptor.

Here’s a short walkabout video of the Ford Ranger XLT+

PROTON

Right. So this SUV is likely the MOST anticipated of the lot. Having subjected us to one of the longest ever “long-lead” ups to its launch, which happened only last month, Proton’s X70 SUV (<–link) has finally hit the road. We’ve already seen a few out there, all CBU of course, with local-assembly only set to begin in October 2019. With more than 12,000 bookings taken before launch and once the order-books were opened, we await word on the official media drive later this month, in the meantime, here’s a walkaround video:

TOYOTA

What a Rush. Sorry, just had to with a name like that. Yes, the new Toyota Rush (<–link) was introduced recently too, and we even managed to get a short test drive in! Set to be officially launched very soon, the price estimate is apparently below RM100k… we’re guessing circa RM92,000 or so. Here’s a quick walkaround video:

MITSUBISHI

All hail the new Triton! Shown at KLIMS 2018, (<—link) this truck is likely the only contender to the Ranger Raptor in terms of ‘wow’ factor. There’s still no word on when it’s going to arrive here, but it’s a stunner! Completely unexpected, it was getting a lot of attention at the show, here’s a video featuring the truck:

PERODUA

So technically it’s still very hush-hush for now, but there’s definitely a new Perodua SUV on the way. Perodua isn’t new to SUVs, having introduced the Kembara many years back, and the short-lived Nautica later on. Largely based on the Daihatsu Terios (above) and Toyota Rush, it’s almost a given that Perodua will have some design input in the finished product, scheduled to be launched in Q1 this year. Here’s a video on the Terios…

ISUZU

And now a surprise. In October 2019, Isuzu Malaysia will bring in the new MU-X 7-seater SUV! We have no solid details about it at the moment, except to say that in typical MU-X fashion, it is huge. Here’s a walkaround video:

Photo Gallery (Land Rover Defender images courtesy of AutoExpress.co.uk)

Naza Kia Malaysia Introduces Facelift Optima, Sorento & Grand Carnival + Enhanced Rio Gets 6-Speed Transmission!

Naza Kia Malaysia, the official distributor of Kia vehicles in Malaysia, today unveiled the facelift of the all-popular Optima, Sorento, Grand Carnival and enhanced Rio models with a host of upgrades for the Malaysian market. “After receiving overwhelming market response of our four best-selling models, we at Naza Kia Malaysia are proud to introduce the facelift versions of Optima, Sorento, Grand Carnival and enhanced version of the Rio. We are confident with the advanced automotive technologies and upgraded features, our vehicles will provide a more refined driving experience and satisfaction to our customers,” said Dato’ Samson Anand George, Group Chief Executive Officer, Automotive Group, Naza Corporation Holdings.

The New Optima GT 2.0L’s on-the-road presence receives a boost, making modifications to the exterior such as the new aggressive front grille, LED fog lamps, rear combination LED lamps while retaining the 18-inch alloy wheels. For added style, the New Optima GT now features new ambient lighting around the dashboard and car doors. The infotainment system is now paired with a 7-inch touch screen with Around View Monitor (AVM) camera. The system uses cameras at the front, rear and sides of the vehicle to provide the driver with a 360-degree view of their surroundings, making it easier to complete low-speed parking manoeuvre.

The facelifted Optima GT’s seat design features a new two-tone red and black leather, with the front seats embroidered with the GT signature logo. Available in five exterior colours – Snow White Pearl, Aurora Black, Gravity Blue, and the newly introduced Silky Silver and Platinum Graphite, the New Optima 2.0L GT is available at RM169,888 on-the-road without insurance.

The sophisticated and bold-looking Kia Sorento received upgrades too and is now reintroduced as the EX for the 2.4L petrol variant and SX for the 2.2L diesel turbo variant which comes equipped with 8-speed automatic transmission providing smoother acceleration and improved fuel efficiency. Both the New Sorento 2.4L EX 6AT Petrol and Sorento SX 2.2L 8AT Diesel now feature Triple-barrel LED headlamps with Dynamic Bending Light System and LED fog lights to improve driving conditions and safety precautions. The LED combination rear lamps also received a design update to refresh the exterior finish of the New Sorento.

On the interior, the powerful SUV now comes with Bluetooth activated by voice recognition, memory seat package and a wireless smartphone charger for a hassle-free experience. The New Sorento 2.4L EX is fitted with new design 18-inch alloy wheels while the New Sorento 2.2L SX rides on new design 19-inch alloy wheels. The colours available for the New Sorento are Snow White Pearl, Aurora Black, Silky Silver, Platinum Graphite, and Rich Espresso. The New Sorento 2.4L EX 6AT Petrol is priced at RM169,888, while the New Sorento SX 2.2L 8AT Diesel is priced at RM179,888 on-the-road without insurance.

The New Kia Grand Carnival’s facelifted KX and SX variants’ versatility and style epitomises the perfect blend of day-to-day practicality and high-end luxury. The 8 speed automatic transmission of the KX and SX variants provides a smoother acceleration and improved fuel efficiency, with other new upgrades such as the Electronic Parking Brake and 18-inch alloy wheels in Light Metal Silver for KX variant and in Dark Grey Two Tone for the SX variant. The KX variant’s exclusive look on the front also features a new projector headlamps design with LED daytime-running lights and fog lamps.

Also, the SX variant’s front face receives new LED projector headlamps with auto-levelling and LED daytime-running lights as well as a new ‘Ice Cube’ LED projector foglamps. Additionally, this variant comes with Blind Spot Detection System (BDS), Integrated Memory System for driver’s seat and side mirrors, including a wireless smartphone charger. Among the colours available for the New Grand Carnival are Snow White Pearl, Aurora Black Pearl Silky Silver and Panthera Metal. The 2.2-litre KX 8AT Diesel is priced at RM155,888, while the 2.2-litre SX 8AT Diesel is priced at RM184,888 on-the-road without insurance.

The latest Kia Rio also received a major transmission system upgrade as now the B-segment hatchback is enhanced with 6-speed Automatic Transmission. Other features upgrade in Rio includes Auto Cruise Control with Speed Limiter, Blind Spot Detection System (BDS) and Electrochromic Mirror with Auto Dimmer. As far as safety features are concerned, BDS in Rio is the first to be introduced in its class. For a smooth drive on the road, the New Rio 6AT runs on 16-inch alloy wheels. The colours available for the New Rio 6AT are Signal Red, Aurora Black Pearl, Smoke Blue, Deep Siena Brown, Clear White and Platinum Graphite; and is available at RM78,888 on-the-road without insurance.

For the FULL Price List on each vehicle, click to download these:

Price List Rio

Price List Optima

Price List Sorento

Price List Grand Carnival

Kia Photo Gallery…

Naza Italia Introduces Updated Maserati Levante Ahead Of 2019 Debut!

Maserati’s remarkably successful SUV, the Levante, is now available to the Malaysian market as an updated 2019 version. The MY19 (Model Year 2019) range has inherited new contents, which enhance its “Gran Turismo” character and set the Levante at the top of its class in terms of outright performance, driving dynamics and exclusivity. For the Malaysian market, Naza Italia, the official importer and distributor for Maserati, will be offering the petrol-powered Maserati Levante S with GranSport and GranLusso trims, with prices starting at RM788,800.

The MY19 range introduces a high-end interpretation of the Levante. Enhancements made in the Levante S include the adoption of a redesigned gearshift lever with shorter travel and improved operation. The GranSport trim presents a distinct styling theme with new front and rear bumpers that were inspired by the Levante GTS and Trofeo. For the Malaysian market, the Levante S version features 21-inch Helios wheels and a High Glass Metal Weave interior trim.

SM Nasarudin Tan Sri SM Nasimuddin, Group Executive Chairman of NAZA Corporation Holdings Sdn Bhd said, “Following Maserati’s entry into the SUV segment, the Levante has exceeded expectations and continues to be a leader in its class. Naza Italia is delighted to offer our discerning customers the latest evolution of the Levante, which sports a number of attractive enhancements. Whether customers opt for the luxury-oriented GranLusso trim or the sport-oriented GranSport trim, the Levante S promises them a first-class environment.”

The powertrain remains untouched in this version, which means the SUV still features a forceful 430hp 3-litre twin turbo V6 engine. Designed by Maserati Powertrain in cooperation with Ferrari, the engine is manufactured by Ferrari in Maranello and is both powerful and eco-friendly, thanks to the Auto Start-Stop function. The twin-turbo V6 petrol driven engine is capable of 430bhp and 580Nm of torque. Its specific torque of 194 Nm per litre is the best in the luxury SUV class, as is its specific power (144hp/l). The Levante S accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds and has a top speed of 264 km/h.

The design concept of the Levante combines coupé lines with interior space for five people and exceptional aerodynamic efficiency. The Maserati of SUVs is instantly recognisable from a distance, thanks to its imposing grille, which was inspired by the sensational Alfieri concept, but also pays homage to historic Maserati cars like the Tipo 60 Birdcage. The silhouette flows along the side of the car from the feline headlights to the characteristic Maserati rear pillar, creating a coupé look that is enhanced by frameless doors – a characteristic feature of modern Maserati cars. The muscular shape of the rear haunches underscores the car’s genuinely Italian style.

In the newly enhanced Levante S, this unmistakable design has reached new levels of sportiness with the restyling of the GranSport exterior. The elegant, sport-oriented restyling is focused on the lower front fascia and the rear bumper. Alongside the sportier bumpers, the GranSport exterior is also discernible for the front and rear Black Piano inserts, the GranSport badges on the front fenders, the red brake calipers and the 21-inch Helios wheels. While the exterior of the baseline V6 versions remains the same, the characteristic features of the luxury-oriented GranLusso trim are elegant chrome inserts in the front fascia, chrome front/rear skid plates, body colour rear spoiler, silver-painted brake calipers, 21-inch Helios alloy wheels and GranLusso badges on the fenders.

The GranLusso trim also offers the choice of full premium Italian leather, Pieno Fiore natural leather or Ermenegildo Zegna silk upholstery. It includes standard 12-way power comfort front seats with memory function, Bowers and Wilkins Surround Sound System, power-adjustable steering wheel and pedals, illuminated door-sills, parking sensors, navigation system and Soft Close Doors system. The MY19 Levante S is fitted with a new gearshift lever for the eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox used on all Levante versions. The redesigned component features an intuitive, dual lane shift pattern providing shorter travel and improved functionality.

The driver has the option to use the gearbox in either automatic (RND) or manual mode (M) simply by shifting the lever from right to left, while a new ‘P’ button on top sets the transmission in parking mode. With the new gearshift lever, the driving modes cluster on the center console is even more user-friendly. The M button has been eliminated and the Off-Road mode button has taken its place leaving space for two separate buttons – instead of one – for the selection of the Sport driving mode and the Skyhook suspension sport setting. The selectable modes are Off-Road, I.C.E. (Increased Control & Efficiency) and Sport.

The eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox ensures exceptional comfort, low fuel consumption and reduced noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). By default, the car is set to Auto Normal mode, which offers the right balance between ride comfort, reduced consumption and sportiness, performing smooth gear changes at low engine speeds. In Off-Road mode, when the driver selects a chosen speed the car continues at this pace, even when climbing. This is extremely useful on a challenging climb, as the car will effectively drive itself, with the driver only having to manage the steering wheel. In Auto Off-Road mode the transmission recognises the different types of terrain, interacts with the ESP and alters its shifting response accordingly. In I.C.E. mode, gearshifts are almost unnoticeable, providing unrivalled driving comfort.

The MY19 Levante S has a spacious cabin that blends innovative solutions, such as the state-of-the art infotainment system that has been mildly tweaked with improved display graphics and more user-friendly climate-control functions. The button that deactivates the Start-Stop function can now be dragged and dropped on the main screen so you can access it in every menu. The electric panorama sunroof with tilt and slide functionality comes as standard for all MY19 Levante S variants offered in Malaysia.

There is a palette of eleven colours in the MY19 catalogue only for the V6 Levante versions, with a brand-new tri-coat colour, the Blu Nobile with sparkling glass flakes glimmering under the sunlight. The matt grey-by-default calipers on the baseline Levante V6 versions are painted silver on the GranLusso. The Levante GranSport is standard fitted with red painted calipers. A wide range of colours with the Maserati logo is available as an option. The recently introduced Nerissimo package, has also been updated for the MY19 Levante.

It is now available in eight specific body colours – seven of which are brand new – combining black elements (front grille, skid plates, daylight openings and door mirrors) with dark tail lights and exhaust tips. Details such as the grille upper bezel trim, the rear trunk accent, the side air vents, the Trident on grille and all Maserati badges and logos are finished in Black Chrome. The updated MY19 Nerissimo package has also adopted body-colour door handles and lower moldings and new 21-inch wheels with dark finish.

The Levante S MY19 enters Malaysia’s luxury SUV segment at the starting price of MYR 788,800.00 (inclusive of local taxes and duties) and includes 3 years Standard Warranty coverage with no mileage restriction plus a *Maserati Premium Service Plus of 3 years/60,000 km whichever comes first. The public is invited to head over to Naza Italia’s showroom in Petaling Jaya to view and test drive the Levante and speak with Naza Italia’s sales team in greater detail about Maserati’s newest offering. For the Specifications sheet, click to download this: Press Release_Maserati Levante MY19

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