2021 sees the ranges of two of Lexus Malaysia’s popular models – the RX300 and ES250 – gaining additional versions. These are the new RX 300 Luxury Special Edition and ES 250 Limited. Orders are accepted at all 6 authorised Lexus outlets nationwide from mid-January, with sales beginning in February 2021.
Without insurance premium, the RX 300 Luxury Special Edition is priced from RM421,909.50, while the ES 250 Limited is priced from RM327,510.50. As the government has extended the exemption of sales tax under the PENJANA program, the savings (5% of the sales tax amount) will be available until the end of June 2021. You also get a 5-year warranty with unlimited mileage.
ES 250 Limited
“The Lexus RX and Lexus ES have suitably played a key role in the Lexus family by developing a strong interest in the Lexus brand. They have continuously delivered an overall package that not only impresses from its design, but the high level of quality finish, equipment and luxurious drive have made these the best-selling models in the Lexus stable,” said President of Lexus Malaysia, Ravindran K.
The new RX 300 Luxury Special Edition that joins the line-up alongside the Premium and F Sport variants has an exclusive bodykit which give a sportier outlook while providing aerodynamic benefits. The front bumper design is new along with that of the side skirts and rear bumper diffuser.
RX 300 Luxury Special Edition
Those buying the RX Luxury Special Edition can choose from 4 main colours – Sonic Quartz, Sonic Titanium, Graphite Black Glass Flake and Red Mica Crystal Shine, while ES 250 Limited Edition buyers have a choice of Sonic Quartz, Sonic Titanium, Graphite Black Glass Flake or Deep Blue Mica, Depending on the exterior colour, the interior colour theme will be either Topaz or Black.
Bamboo wood trim
For the new ES 250 Limited Edition, there is an inlay of bamboo wood trim in the doors, dashboard, centre console and steering wheel. While offering a unique texture and a fine finish to the luxurious interior, the bamboo trim perfectly illustrates the role of the Takumi craftsman who painstakingly sculpts and finishes each piece by hand.
Bamboo trim in ES 250 Limited.
Lexus upholds its duty to be environmentally responsible and the bamboo used is hand-picked from sustainable forests in Kochi in southern Japan.
Powertrains
Powering the sleek coupe-like ES 250 is a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine (2AR-FE) with Dual VVT-i and ACIS-III, a variable acoustic induction system for higher torque. With a compression ratio of 10.4:1, the engine produces 204 ps/247 Nm. Power delivery to the wheels goes through a 8-speed automatic Super ECT transmission with AI Shift.
ES 250
For the RX 300, the powertrain is the 8AR-FTS 2-litre 4-cylinder engine with a twin-scroll turbocharger. This proven engine produces a maximum of 235 ps/350 Nm, thanks to ESTEC (Economy with Superior Thermal Efficient Combustion) technology as well as D-4ST Direct Injection. Power goes to all 4 wheels through a compact and lightweight 6-speed automatic transmission, Super Electronically Controlled Transaxle with AI (Artificial Intelligence) Shift.
RX 300
Lexus Safety System +
Both the Lexus models come with Lexus Safety System + (LSS+), a package of active safety systems that help the driver to avoid an accident. These include a Pre-Collision System, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, and Adaptive High-Beam System. The lighting system also has the world’s first BladeScan where blade-shaped mirrors in the headlights spin at high speed to vary the spread of light away from other road-users while providing optimum illumination of the road ahead.
“The Lexus RX and the Lexus ES have proven to be capable, sophisticated and impressive performers in their segments and they continuously exceed expectations by delivering a level of distinctiveness that cannot simply be ignored,” said Deputy Chairman of Lexus Malaysia, Akio Takeyama.
Jeep is a highly recognisable brand globally although it has not had much of a presence in Malaysia. Perhaps that’s partly because we were not associated with America much, being a British colony, and where 4×4 vehicles were concerned, it was the Land Rover that has had a long presence on our roads. Most Malaysians know Jeep for its original Wrangler that was based on the World War II vehicle although the range today is much wider.
The only time that Jeep had a lengthy period of sales in Malaysia was in the 1990s when an MBf automotive unit took on the franchise. It sold the Jeep Cherokee (which was also assembled locally in Johor) and then tried to sell the bigger Grand Cherokee. The Cherokee sold reasonably well but then came the financial crisis of the late 1990s and Jeep was one of the casualties. The moment the numbers dropped below 4 digits, the Americans who were here to support marketing packed up and went home, and Jeep didn’t bother to renew the contract. DRB-HICOM had a go some years back but with the way the models were priced, most people preferred the more established alternative SUVs in the market.
First time with 3 rows
So Malaysians don’t know much about Jeep and won’t know much about the range to know that the Grand Cherokee has 4 generations since 1993 and this week, the fifth generation has made its debut. Besides being a full model change – meaning a complete redesign – the new Grand Cherokee has a wider range with the addition of the Grand Cherokee L, a longer version which has 3 rows of seats, a first for the model.
The platform is a totally new one and has been specially developed for the new generation. Like the Cherokee, the Grand Cherokee has also had monocoque construction or what the Americans like to call unibody, which is just like a passenger car’s. Many of the full-sized (large to us) SUVs in America continue to have body-on-chassis construction which is similar to pick-up trucks.
Weight-saving has been a priority for the engineers and besides using high-strength steel for 60% of the structure, aluminium is also used in many areas. These include the bonnet, rear door and front subframe.
Passenger car-type bodyshell
The unibody construction allows the Grand Cherokee to have a more passenger car-like feel, and multi-link independent suspension is used all round. For those who want more comfort, air suspension is also available and allows variation of the ride height to tackle more difficult terrain.
Powertrains are typically large, with displacements of 3.6 litres and 5.7 litres, both with 8-speed automatic transmissions. Like Land Rover, Jeep also draws heavily on its 4×4 heritage and for the Grand Cherokee, there are three 4×4 systems available. To reduce fuel consumption, the systems are able to disconnect the front axle automatically when the situation permits.
New seating structure
As mentioned earlier, the Grand Cherokee can now have up to 3 rows of seats to accommodate up to 7 people. The additional row is being offered as customer feedback indicates demand for it. This required a new seating structure to be developed for the Grand Cherokee L, apart from the new platform.
Up front, the dashboard layout has been entirely changed, with a 10.3-inch frameless digital meter panel ahead of the driver, and an 8.4-inch touchscreen display panel in the middle for infotainment. There’s the option of a larger 10.1-inch screen for the top variant as well as a 950W/19-speaker audio system custom-tuned by McIntosh Laboratory. As with most new vehicles nowadays, there are multiple connectivity choices including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and UConnect 5.
New generation of interiors
“The objective for the interior design team was to create a unique statement for 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L. We viewed the overall design process through a wide lens that allowed us to use a new generation of Jeep interiors,” said Chris Benjamin, Head of Jeep, Chrysler and Advanced Interior Design, FCA. “While the Jeep Grand Cherokee interior has been synonymous with sophistication, our approach to the three-row version was to showcase distinguished details, handcrafted materials and modern amenities that pair seamlessly with its tailored exterior.”
The new Grand Cherokee L will be the first into the showrooms during the second quarter of 2021, while the 2-row and 4xe hybrid versions will come later in the year. For the immediate future, the Grand Cherokee L will only be available in North America and will not be exported to Europe, Middle East and Africa until the end of this year.
Bentley has launched the first of two PHEVs (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles) – the Bentayga Hybrid which the company says is the only electrified true-luxury SUV in the world. It is the third model in the Bentley SUV portfolio and after deliveries start in mid-2021, it is expected to become the best-selling version of latest Bentayga family.
The hybrid powertrain consists of a 94 kW (126 bhp) E Motor which can produce up to 350 Nm of torque. Working together with the electric motor is a 3-litre twin turbocharged V6 petrol engine that provides additional torque as required or when going at speeds above 135 km/h. To warn pedestrians of the vehicle’s near silent movement, a dedicated speaker emits an exterior sound at low speeds.
The 17.3-kWh lithium-ion battery pack consist of 168 individual cells with an expected life of 160,000 kms or 8 years, and can be charged to 100% in as little as 2.5 hours (depending on region and charging facilities). The power electronics convert the energy stored from the high voltage battery to supply the E Motor or supplement the existing 12V vehicle electrical infrastructure.
Three E modes
The driver of the Bentayga Hybrid can choose different drive modes for optimum motoring performance and efficiency. A dedicated button allows control over the 3 E Modes – EV Drive, Hybrid Mode and Hold Mode. These will enable the driver to manually manage battery usage during a journey – though this can also be managed automatically by the car.
There is also an Efficiency Accelerator Pedal which provides a pressure point when in EV Drive to denote the boundary between pure electric and hybrid power. This encourages the driver to stay in EV Drive for as long as possible but can also be disabled if required. In pure electric drive, the E Motor continues to function up to speeds of up to 135 km/h.
Bentley Hybrid Efficiency Braking blends seamless integration of braking between the E Motor and conventional hydraulic braking, to provide a conventional feel to the brake pedal for comfort and the driving experience while maximising recuperation of energy.
Real-world usage studies
Bentley’s research shows over 90% of owners use their first-generation Bentayga Hybrid on a daily basis or several times a week, and nearly 100% of them use EV mode, with half of them consistently undertaking journeys of less than 50 kms.
It was also found that 78% of zero emissions journeys (those in pure electric mode) were achieved regularly over a 900-km activity. In a more urban environment, one of Bentley’s development drivers achieved 67% in EV model over 1,080 kms around San Francisco. In the UK, Chris Cole (Project Leader for the Bentayga Hybrid) did 64% with zero emissions commuting to and from the factory. In real-world terms, therefore, the majority of journeys can be achieved completely in electric mode only.
Unified Bentley design DNA
The new exterior and interior design emphasise Bentley design DNA across the entire model range. It has been completely refreshed from the previous generation to create an even more stylish and purposeful car. Every panel at the front and rear of the car has been altered to give it a cleaner and more modern look.
At the front, a larger and more upright new matrix grille allows the Bentayga’s elegant bonnet to sweep down to the very edge of the chrome work. This gives the car a more dominant, upright profile and pushes the new elliptical LED matrix headlamps further apart, raising them 30 mm higher leading to a more muscular aesthetic. The new headlamps also include the marque’s now-signature cut crystal design, which makes them appear to sparkle even when not lit.
Perhaps the most dramatic design changes can be seen at the rear of the car where the new Bentayga range can be clearly differentiated from its predecessor. In line with the Continental GT, it features elliptical tail lamps for the first time.
The new looks are further accentuated with numerous individualisation possibilities, including the contemporary urban appeal of the Blackline Specification that replaces all exterior chrome with black versions.
Re-imagined interior
A quieter and more refined driving experience is promised with the Bentayga Hybrid. The interior has been re-imagined and now contains a modernised combination of luxury materials and intricate craftsmanship. Bentley designers have created an even more relaxing environment for passengers with major changes to the door trims and steering wheel, plus a redesigned centre fascia and digital instrumentation cluster. These are complemented by new seats that further improve on seat comfort.
Two seating configurations are available. The standard 5-seat layout benefits from an all-new seat frame, doubling the travel of the rear-seat recline angle, and the optional 4-seat configuration has two individual rear seats separated by a centre console. The ergonomics of the 4-seat configuration are further enhanced from a 30 mm increase in knee room in the upright seated position, with an improvement of almost 100 mm in the reclined position, making luxury travel even more comfortable.
A new quilting design is included in Mulliner Driving Specification cars, while customers can choose from 8 sustainably-sourced veneers including two straight grained options new to Bentayga – Koa and Crown Cut Walnut.
A next generation infotainment system is integrated seamlessly into the handcrafted, Bentley ‘wing’ dashboard design and features a 10.9-inch display screen with edge-to-edge graphics. The all-new digital display includes super high-resolution and dynamic graphics which are configurable to suit driver preferences.
The latest hardware and software bring all-new navigation with satellite maps, online search and other features. Wireless Apple CarPlay is standard for the first time, alongside the existing wired system, along with Android Auto. Rear seat occupants benefit from the introduction of a new, larger touchscreen remote control tablet, similar to that introduced in the all-new Flying Spur.
Connectivity around the car has been significantly improved, with USB-C data ports and a wireless phone charger now standard. The new Bentayga range is now provided with an embedded SIM, as with the latest Continental GT models, meaning My Bentley connected car features no longer require customers to provide their own data connection.
The second model to be announced by UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) today is the updated Toyota Fortuner which will be available during the first quarter of this year. However, bookings can be made now at all authorised UMWT dealerships nationwide or online.
Assembled in Malaysia, Toyota’s full-sized 4×4 SUV for the Malaysian market will continue to be available with a choice of two variants at the following prices: Fortuner 2.8 VRZ 4×4 A/T – from RM203,183 and Fortuner 2.7 SRZ 4×4 A/T – from RM172,244. A 5-year warranty with unlimited mileage comes with each vehicle. [Click here for latest pricelists]
The Fortuner 2.8 VRZ 4×4 A/T is a new variant which replaces the Fortuner 2.4 VRZ offered previously. A new body colour – Bronze Mica Metallic – with a Black Roof will be available exclusively for this new variant which is the flagship of the range. The Black Roof is also available with the Super White II exterior colour only for this variant with other four exterior colour choices.
Exterior changes
The 2021 Fortuner 2.8 VRZ comes with Quad LED headlamps with a new housing, flanking a mesh-type front grille. The foglamps, turn signals and position lamps have also been restyled while the front and rear bumpers have a new design. The skidplate below the front end is also new, emphasising ruggedness. Additionally, the corner mouldings are specially shaped for aerodynamic benefits.
For the Fortuner 2.7 SRZ, the Bi-Beam LED headlamps also have a new sharper design along with the revised front grille and front bumper. The turn signals, position lamps and rear combination lamps have also received cosmetic changes for both variants.
What’s new inside
The current generation of the Fortuner has a more premium image and interior feel, and this is further enhanced with the 2021 models. The Fortuner 2.8 VRZ interior, which has 3 rows of seats, is trimmed with a new design and colour while the seat upholstery also has a new colour and design.
The new instrument panel features a revised Multi Information Display (MID) opening animation. Ambient illumination is provided to add a touch of class at night, while the key cover has been redesigned.
The instrument panel for the Fortuner 2.7 SRZ has been redesigned and for enhanced usefulness, the MID has additional information for the driver. This variant also gets a new interior trim colour and new seat upholstery colour to freshen up the cabin appearance.
For added comfort and convenience, the new Fortuner is fitted with LED Interior Lamps, Electrochromic Rearview Mirror (to eliminate dazzle) and the front passenger can now easily adjust the seat with powered controls at the side.
Toyota Safety Sense
Toyota Safety Sense (TSS is standard in the Fortuner 2.8 VRZ). This is an integrated suite of active safety systems which make use of a camera and radar to monitor and detect other vehicles, and to take appropriate action to prevent an accident.
TSS, though available in many Toyota models today, has different elements and for the latest Fortuner, it comes with Pre collision System (PCS), Lane Departure Alert (LDA) and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) and Yaw Assist Function.
Unlike the TSS in passenger vehicles, the system in the Fortuner (as well as Hilux) has a Yaw Assist Function. This activates when lane departure is detected and additional braking force applied to the inner wheels to direct the vehicle back into the proper lane position.
Proven powertrains
The proven Toyota powertrains are maintained with the availability of the new 1GD-FTV 4-cylinder commonrail diesel engine that has a heavy-duty variable nozzle turbocharger and Intercooler. The new muscular 2.8-litre engine, which produces maximum power of 204 pd/500 Nm, operates at high efficiency with the electronically-controlled common rail injection system that can deliver fuel at a maximum pressure of up to 250 MPa.
The Fortuner 2.8 VRZ also comes with Variable Flow Control Power Steering, which helps to improve fuel economy by reducing the power steering pump consumption torque. This is achieved by having a standby mode (low assist) when the vehicle is not being steered. As with other power steering systems, the amount of assistance varies according to the speed. It is greater at low speeds (eg when parking) to make steering easier and becomes less at higher speeds to give a firmer feel.
The part-time 4×4 drivetrain provides for maximum capability on all surfaces, from smooth highway to muddy jungle tracks. With the 4×4 engaged, all four wheels constantly get power to give better stability and grip in all conditions, increasing safety.
The drivetrain of both variants includes an Auto Limited Slip Differential (LSD). This device is very useful in the most difficult conditions and uses the traction control system to control braking when one of the rear wheels start to spin. It allows engine power to be maintained and power is directed to the wheel with better traction.
Bookings can be made at all Toyota showrooms nationwide as well as online at build.toyota.com.my. Locations of all showrooms can be found at www.toyota.com.my or by calling the Toyota Freephone at 1800-8-TOYOTA (869682).
Car-buyers all over the world are always concerned about the safety standards of the car they are interested in getting. After all, they will be using it daily and while no one wants to have an accident, it can happen unexpectedly and when it does, that’s when the protective systems and engineering become vital in minimising injuries.
Today, buyers can be better informed about how safe a model is, thanks to the New Car Assessment Programme (NCAP) which started in the European car industry 24 years ago. The program, conducted by the independent Euro NCAP organisation, involved crash tests and other assessments of new vehicles which were analysed and star ratings would be awarded, depending on the performance in the tests.
NCAP for ASEAN region
Since then, as awareness grew in other parts of the world, including Malaysia, regional NCAPs were established. This was an important move as there would be some models which might be sold or developed for specific regions. In ASEAN, the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS), an agency under the Transport Ministry, was instrumental in starting a NCAP for the region. The ASEAN NCAP is recognised and part of the Global NCAP organisation which shares information and discusses matters relating to motor vehicle safety standards.
Zanita Zaunuddin, Head of the Safety and Intelligent Drive team at Proton which engineered the X50 to score 5 stars.
While consumers have come to know about ASEAN NCAP ratings as they are publicised in articles as well as advertisements, the ratings are not mandatory for Type Approval of a vehicle to be permitted for sale in Malaysia. Nevertheless, because NCAP ratings are easy to understand and provide consumers with useful information on how safe a model is, manufacturers strive to achieve the best results and get a 5-star rating, the maximum currently awarded.
Adapted from Geely Binyue
For this reason, when the Proton X50 began development, its performance in the ASEAN NCAP was targeted to be no less than 5 stars. The X50, being adapted from Geely’s Binyue SUV model, already had sound engineering but it was not as straightforward as simply changing the badge and making styling changes here and there. To become a Proton model required a new engineering programme which included meeting the highest ASEAN NCAP standards.
The task fell to the Safety and Intelligent Drive team at Proton, headed by Zanita Zainuddin. To ensure a 5-star rating, crucial, yet subtle changes had to be made, involving performance tuning, material replacement and parts repositioning. One crucial change made was on the bodyshell of the X50. In initial frontal collision tests during development, the front floorboard often experienced tearing, certainly unacceptable by any standard. To overcome this, the engineers had to reinforce the area with ultra-high-strength steel, thereby shifting the force of impact to other areas that do not present any threat to occupant safety. Overall, 40% of the body, including the front, side and back, was made using a combination of high-strength steel variants.
It’s not a straightforward matter to convert from the lefthand drive Geely Binyue (above) to the righthand drive Proton X50 (below).
Another change was on the driver’s footrest, next to the accelerator and brake pedals. It was not a simple matter converting from the lefthand drive of the Binyue to the righthand drive for the X50. In fact, Geely had not developed a righthand drive variant so Proton would have to re-engineer certain areas for the conversion.
The engine is always placed under the bonnet towards the right side of the vehicle, regardless of the driving side. Therefore, during a collision, the driver of a righthand-drive Proton X50 would be more vulnerable to foot injury as compared to the driver of a lefthand drive Geely Binyue. To safeguard the driver’s resting foot from such harm, the footrest for the X50 had to be modified to ensure that the foot remains on the footrest by reducing slippage.
Improving for ASEAN NCAP from C-NCAP
Being a model primarily for the China market, the Binyue was developed to meet the requirements of C-NCAP, which is the NCAP for that country. Although there are common criteria among all the NCAPs, there are also some differences with ASEAN NCAP.
One example is the curtain airbags. ASEAN NCAP emphasizes that the static deployment of curtain airbags covers a range of body types for the different people that may be in the vehicle. Therefore, the curtain airbags for the X50 had to be adjusted to provide additional cushioning to the head area during impact, primarily during side collisions. Since this greatly improves occupants’ safety, it was highly recommended that the additional provision be incorporated in future Geely models.
Child Occupant Protection
C-NAP is also less focussed on the issue of compatible seats for child occupants, which is an important area in ASEAN NCAP referred to as Child Occupant Protection (COP) and contributory to the overall assessment. Zanita’s team made a changes which included lengthening the hook on the ISOFIX attachment point for compatible childseats. This not only made it easier to install the seat but also to readjust its angle to ensure secure positioning. The work done by Proton in such areas has been shared with Geely and will help it to be ready for such requirements if introduced by C-NAP in 2021.
Results of ASEAN NCAP’s assessment of Child Occupant Protection for the X50.
Benefits of being in the Geely Group
Geely and Proton have both benefited from each brand being subjected to different safety and market standards. The best practices are being gathered and shared, ultimately benefitting consumers who get to enjoy not only a comfortable ride but also a very safe one. Additionally, having Volvo – widely acknowledged as the world leader in automotive safety – as part of the group means being able to get assistance in advancing safety technologies.
“Proton has always emphasized safety as one of its unique selling points, unbiased to any country or platform. It is not surprising then that we continue to challenge ourselves so that this DNA is inherent throughout our range of models, be it our locally produced car or the current joint development with our partner Geely,” said Zanita.
As 2020 is nearing the end, the business sector must be looking forward to a new year. Though the pandemic is far from over, we now have a vaccine so there is hope that 2021 can see less worries about infection spreading.
The auto sector must certainly be looking forward to sales growth and is filling showrooms with new models. The latest to launch a new range is Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) which today unveiled its eighth model to join the premium SUV line-up, the all-new Mercedes-Benz GLA. Two variants are available – the GLA 200 and GLA 250 4MATIC – both of which are imported CBU from Germany.
Two variants, two engines
The GLA 200 comes in Progressive Line spec with a 1.3-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder 163 bhp/250 Nm engine and 7G-DCT automatic transmission. The GLA 250 4MATIC has the AMG Line spec and comes with a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine. Turbocharging boosts output to 224 bhp/350 Nm which goes through an 8G-DCT automatic transmission to all 4 wheels.
GLA 200 1.3-litre engineGLA 250 2.0-litre engine
Save money if you buy this month
Depending on when you buy the new cars, the price will differ. Before December 31, 2020, the exemption of half the amount of sales tax means the GLA 200 will be priced (without insurance) from RM244,199.82, and the GLA 250 from RM285,336.66. From January 1, if the exemption is not extended, then the 5% sales tax will be included which will raise the prices to RM252,888.00 and RM295,888.00, respectively.
The new GLA has, for some time, served as the entry-level model to the SUV family, offering the benefits of a compact car as well as a SUV. “The GLA is the key entry point to the brand in the fast-growing compact SUV family. The model enables us to offer a unique lifestyle proposition that is similar to the bigger GLB that we have recently introduced,” said Michael Jopp, Vice-President, Sales & Marketing Passenger Cars, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.
This new generation is the second one since the model line appeared in 2013. While having a similar styling theme, the body is slightly smaller but the wheelbase has been extended by 30 mm as it now sits on the MFA-2 platform. At 4.41 metres in length, it is the shortest vehicle in the current Mercedes-Benz portfolio.
As a crossover SUV, the styling has functionality but also sportiness, with short overhangs front and rear. As before, there are powerful shoulders and the coupe-like lines of the side windows which give a contoured side profile.
Like the other Mercedes-Benz SUV models, the radiator grille features distinctive openings along with a single louvre and a central star, with LED High Performance headlamp. All-round protective cladding adds structure to the overall proportions and emphasizes the vehicle’s character, as does the simulated underride guard at the front and rear.
More compact outside but more spacious inside
Although shorter than its predecessor, the new GLA offers a more spacious interior, particularly for rear legroom and luggage compartment volume. The seating position for both the driver and the front passenger is higher and more upright than before too, more typical of an SUV.
Utility value was, in general, one of the focuses of development. There is plenty of room for one or two people in the rear and with a 40:20:40 division of the backrests, flexibility in the layout is possible.
The height-adjustable load floor also offers considerable variability. When the rear seat backrests are folded down and the load floor is in the upper position, an almost flat loading area extending to the front seats can be created to take long items.
The instrument panel consists of a basic volume, which features optical ‘cut-outs’ in the driver and front passenger area. The cut-out on the driver’s side is dominated by the free-standing display unit with two 10.25-inch displays.
The round ventilation outlets (5 in all) have a high-quality turbine look with meticulously designed air guidance vanes. The door centre panel flows seamlessly over into the armrest, while the grab handle has a tubular profile and runs horizontally like a railing.
The latest generation of the Mercedes me connect is also standard with the GLA and of course, there is the intuitively operated MBUX infotainment system (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) in its latest version. MBUX can be individually configured with the aid of a range of options to personalise interaction. Remote Engine Start is also available with the GLA 250.
Helping the driver
The GLA comes with many driving assistance systems, offering the driver cooperative support to avoid accidents. The systems can automatically activate the brakes if a collision is imminent and the driver has taken no action to prevent it. In the GLA 250, Blind Spot Assist warns of vehicles, including bicycles, in the blind zone and also signal the driver with a visual warning in the exterior mirror if a vehicle is driving past if the door is about to be opened.
The motor vehicle market in India is a highly competitive one and while there are a number of domestic brands, foreign brands also put up a strong fight for share. And the market volume is large enough to justify investing in developing country-specific models.
For Renault, India has been an attractive market which has been growing since it entered in 2005 and it has adapted models to the local market like the Duster as well as introduced original products such as Kwid and Triber.
Soon, another India-specific product will be introduced by the French carmaker and to give a preview, it has presented a showcar known as the Kiger. As would be expected, it is a SUV, the type of vehicle which is in hot demand today all over the world.
Eye-catching little SUV
The Kiger, which is under 4 metres in length, was created from the cooperation between Renault’s French and Indian design divisions. It has been given an adventurous look which blends well with the urban jungle as well as the natural jungle.
At first glance, the Kiger stands out with its sculpted bonnet, slender windscreen and a semi-floating roof with a roof rack. On both sides, the tapered mirrors have been designed like airplane wings. At the rear, the trailing edge is topped by a spoiler that is functional and also adds a sporty touch.
The lower section is more muscular and stockier, sitting on four 19-inch wheels framed by large square arches that give strength to the exterior styling. The 210-mm ground clearance with reinforced lower flaps and prominent shoulders will prove useful on rough terrain or bad roads.
The sporty side is accentuated by the dual centrally located exhaust tailpipes and the honeycomb patterns distributed around the vehicle.
For the showcar, double-stage LED spotlights, similar to those that appeared on the New Kwid last year, and green turn signals are fitted. At the rear, the double ‘C’ headlights signal Kiger’s place under the Renault brand and form a light signature that prefigures that of the production model.
‘Aurora Borealis’ colour
The showcar is finished in a green ‘Aurora Borealis’ colour which changes according to the light and the angle from which it is observed. It is adorned with ‘mysterious’ blue and purple reflections that make the car as intriguing as well as seductive.
Fluorescent touches highlight certain aluminium elements such as door handles, bumper inserts, strapping with inlaid decoration, logo contours and brake calipers.
“The creative association of French and Indian designers was the best way to meet the needs and expectations of a clientele increasingly fond of style, dynamism and novelty. As with the Triber, we are once again demonstrating our ability to innovate, by offering a new model with a dual personality, both urban and outdoor,” said Laurens van den Acker, Executive Vice-President, Corporate Design of Groupe Renault, confirming that the Kiger will become a production model.
The all-new Bentley Bentayga is making its debut in the Asia-Pacific region via a virtual experience for customers and the public, the first time Bentley is using this approach. In part, it would be because of the current COVID-19 pandemic which limits movements in various countries, and customers may also be hesitant about visiting showrooms for now. So the next best thing is to view virtually, which they can do from the comfort of their homes or offices.
As would be expected of a luxury brand, no effort has been spared to provide the best virtual experience of its latest SUV model. The Bentayga can be explored in a multitude of ways to gain in-depth understanding and just like the personalization possible with every Bentley model, it is also possible to personalize the virtual experience.
A virtual adventure
As these unprecedented times have given rise to changing media consumption habits, we are inspiring our customers and Bentley enthusiasts to embark on a virtual adventure,” said Calista Tambajong, Head of Marketing – Asia-Pacific. “Each individual may be drawn to different aspects of the new Bentayga; through the interactive virtual experience, we are imparting freedom to our audience to choose the way they explore the new Bentayga.”
The latest Bentayga, introduced earlier this year, is the first model in Bentley’s Beyond100 business plan. More than 20,000 units have been built since launch – said to be more than any of its competitors – to position the SUV for a continuation of the success story of the model line.
Practicality and off-road capability
Where Bentleys have been the ultimate performance grand tourers and luxury limousines, the Bentayga now adds spacious family car practicality and off-road capability. The new Bentayga follows its predecessor’s mantle of having the broadest brief of any vehicle on sale today, it is claimed.
Latest design language
The latest Bentayga has Bentley’s new design language, introduced by the third-generation Continental GT and all-new Flying Spur. The design is cleaner and more modern with imposing road presence and strong visual connection to the other two models.
The interior designers significantly revised the interior which can accommodate up to 5 persons. More legroom is available – up to 100 mm depending on configuration – improving comfort. The handcrafted Bentley ‘wing’ dashboard design is new and features a 10.9-inch display panel with edge-to-edge graphics in super high resolution.
High-performance SUV
Bentley’s proven 4-litre V8 turbocharged engine, which develops 550 ps/770 Nm, is mated to an 8-speed transmission. Like other luxury SUVs, very high performance is available for the driver in a hurry. The claimed 0 to 100 km/h time is 4.5 seconds, with a top speed of 290 km/h. With the ability to deactivate four of the eight cylinders in certain conditions, fuel consumption can be as economical as 7.5 kms/litre.
Pricing starts from RM743,900, excluding duties and insurance, and for those who want a more exclusively equipped SUV, there is also the Bentayga First Edition which costs another RM191,900.
Click here to read more about the Bentayga Speed, flagship of the range.
Volkswagen has announced the most powerful Tiguan to date: the Tiguan R. With a power output of 320 ps, the SUV can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds, it is claimed. The capability comes from the EA888 evo4 TSI turbocharged engine which also generates up to 420 Nm between 2,100 rpm and 5,350 rpm.
Developed by Volkswagen R
The Tiguan flagship was developed by Volkswagen R, the carmaker’s high-performance division. It’s not just the impressive performance that characterises the Tiguan R but also the extensively customised equipment. The exterior has R-designed bumpers with aerodynamic elements in high-gloss black or matching the body colour chosen by the customer.
The exterior mirror covers are in matt chrome and there is a unique and also high-gloss black rear diffuser, black wheel housing extensions and 20-inch Misano alloy wheels (21-inch available as option). The exterior of the Tiguan R can also be personalised with the Black Style design package.
Exclusive interior fittings
Inside, the Tiguan R sets presents a sportier ambience with features such as stainless steel pedals, premium sport seats that have integrated head restraints and R logo developed exclusively for this version. The Digital Cockpit, a highlight of the latest generation of Volkswagens, is additionally customised with an integrated lap timer and sports R-specific decorative trim in Carbon Grey. The decorative trim elements are illuminated via the background lighting.
New 4MOTION all-wheel drive system
Power from the 4-cylinder engine, with a 7-speed DSG, is distributed to four wheels by the new all-wheel drive system. This is the 4MOTION system with R-Performance Torque Vectoring. Volkswagen engineers have incorporated a rear final drive with two multiplate clutches for the first time which not only distributes power between the front and rear axles but also variably between the left and right rear wheels.
With the new all-wheel drive system, Volkswagen claims that there is noticeably improved handling agility when cornering, making the Tiguan R’s driving dynamics a new benchmark for SUVs.
Other technical R equipment includes a powerful 18-inch brake system with blue brake calipers, a DCC chassis (with adaptively controlled shock absorbers) lowered by 10 mm, and a driving profile selection enhanced for the Tiguan R with an additional R profile. This particularly sporty mode can be activated directly by means of a blue R button on the new multifunction sports steering wheel. The ESC (Electronic Stability Control) can be deactivated by drivers who are skilled and want to explore the performance limits.
As standard, the Tiguan R comes with a 4-branch sports exhaust system but customers can also choose the optionally available titanium exhaust system from Akrapovic and 21-inch Estoril alloy wheels.
Volkswagen’s bestseller globally
While many may think the Golf is Volkswagen’s bestselling model, that is not so and the Tiguan is its bestselling model today. It is relatively young in the carmaker’s range, having been introduced in 2007. However, that coincided with the rapid growth in the SUV segment globally, and with the timing being right, sales rocketed.
The annual volumes have increased almost eightfold since the first full year of production. In 2019, one in seven of the 6.18 million Volkswagen vehicles manufactured was a Tiguan, for a total of 910,926 units. In fact, a Tiguan left the production line every 35 seconds last year – a new record for the model.
The R-Line range available in Malaysia includes the Tiguan Allspace. Visit www.volkswagen.com.my to know more.
With a year still to go before its market launch at the end of 2021, the BMW Group is providing a first look ahead to the future BMW iX, the production reality of the BMW Vision iNEXT. Currently undergoing extensive development work, the iX is the first model based on a new, modular, scalable future toolkit developed by the Group.
Conceived from the outset for purely electric mobility, the iX sees BMW redefining the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) concept that it introduced in the late 1990s with the X5. Just as the X5 was a pioneering model for the carmaker, so too is the iX which is the first representative of what the company promises to be ‘a trailblazing generation of cars’.
The iX harnesses the latest innovations in the fields of electrification, automated driving and connectivity to deliver a mobility experience with people at its core. To this end, its design has been developed from the inside out to provide quality of life and wellbeing for drivers and passengers.
BMW Group’s new technology flagship
The design and technology of the iX form an overall package that lays the foundations for what is in many respects a new kind of driving experience. In so doing, it comprehensively embodies the character of the BMW i brand, whose mission is to transform personal mobility. BMW i plays a central role at the BMW Group as a ‘workshop for the future’ and driver of innovation across the company.
Testing the BMW eDrive systemThe iX will go into production at BMW Plant Dingolfing from the second half of 2021 as the BMW Group’s new technology flagship. It brings together the company’s latest developments in the strategic innovation fields of Design, Automated Driving, Connectivity, Electrification and Services. Added to which, the vehicle concept and design of the iX are rooted in an all-embracing approach to sustainability. This is reflected in areas of the car such as its optimised aerodynamics, intelligent lightweight design and extensive use of natural and recycled materials
Fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology
The iX will adopt the BMW eDrive technology and the fact that this technology is in the fifth generation shows how far the BMW Group has come in the field. The eDrive comprises two electric motors, the power electronics, the charging technology and the high-voltage battery – and guarantees exceptional operating and running efficiency.
The power unit developed by the BMW Group has been manufactured sustainably without the use of critical raw materials known as rare earths and will, by the most recent calculations, develop maximum output of more than 370 kW – equivalent to 500 hp. That will power the iX from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 5.0 seconds, it is claimed.
At the same time, the vehicle’s clear aim is to post an exceptionally low combined electric power consumption figure for its segment of less than 21 kWh per 100 kilometres in the WLTP test cycle. A gross energy content of more than 100 kWh should enable the latest-generation high-voltage battery to record a range of over 600 kms in the WLTP cycle. That equates to more than 480 kms according to the US EPA’s FTP-75 test procedure.
10 minutes for over 120 kms range
The new charging technology of the iX enables DC fast charging at up to 200 kW. In this way, the battery can be charged from 10% – 80% of its full capacity in under 40 minutes. For those who are in a hurry and cannot spend too much time on recharging, 10 minutes of recharging will provide a range of over 120 kms (this of course depends on driving conditions). It is projected to take less than 11 hours to charge the high-voltage battery from 0 to 100% at 11 kW from a Wallbox.
The battery pack fitted in the iX is designed as part of a long-term resource cycle and enable an exceptionally high recycling rate. The power used to produce the battery cells for the battery pack as a whole come exclusively from renewable sources.
New technology toolkit
The new technology toolkit making its debut in the iX also provides the platform for significant progress in the areas of automated driving and digital services. For example, the level of computing power has been developed to process 20 times the data volume of previous models. As a result, around double the amount of data from vehicle sensors can be processed than was previously possible.
“We are setting new industry standards with the technology in the BMW iX. The iX has more computing power for data processing and more powerful sensor technology than the newest vehicles in our current line-up. 5G-capable, it will be given new and improved automated driving and parking functions and uses the high-performing fifth generation of our electric drive system,” said Frank Weber, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Development.
Familiar but fresh design
50 years ago, when cars of the future were displayed at motorshows, they either looked way too extreme or were small bubbles on wheels. However, the iX, while having a pioneering character, has familiarity in its design. It is not extreme, but the exterior represents a distinctive re-imagining of the proportions of a large BMW SAV.
The iX is comparable with the X5 in length and width, and is almost the same height as the X6 on account of its flowing roofline. The size of its wheels would bring to mind the larger X7. The minimalist use of character lines and generously shaped surfaces conjure an aura of supreme assurance. The crisp lines, clear structure and almost rectangular contours around the wheelarches contribute to an imposing body design with optimised aerodynamics.
At the centre of the front end stands the prominent, vertically emphasised kidney grille. Since the electric drive system requires only a small amount of cooling air, the kidney grille is completely blanked off. Its role has duly turned digital and here it functions as an ‘intelligence panel’. Camera technology, radar functions and other sensors are integrated into the grille behind a transparent surface.
Developed and produced at the BMW Group’s LuTZ lightweight design and technology centre, the kidney grille for the BMW iX presents a technologically lavish advertisement for intelligent mobility. The grille has reinvented itself as an innovative and multifunctional high-tech interface for the advanced driver assistance systems with which the iX paves the way for automated driving.
Discreetly integrated technology
The exterior design highlights also include the slimmest headlight units ever to feature on a volume-produced model from BMW; the flush-fitted door openers (operated at the press of a button); the frameless side windows; the tailgate (which has no separation joints and extends across the whole of the rear) and the likewise extremely slim rear lights.
The BMW kidney grille is not the only example of how the principle of ‘shy tech’ has been integrated into the design of the BMW iX: an array of other cameras and sensors are likewise positioned discreetly, the filler neck for the windscreen washer fluid is concealed under the BMW logo on the bonnet and the rear-view camera has been integrated into the BMW logo on the tailgate. The technology stays in the background and only becomes apparent as and when the relevant functions are called into action.
“The BMW iX shows how we can give new technologies a very modern and emotionally engaging design. The car is technologically highly complex, but it feels very clear and uncomplicated,” explained Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice-President BMW Group Design. “The BMW iX offers a mobile living space in which people will feel at ease and the car’s intelligence is always available without becoming obtrusive.”
Interior design: people at centre stage
A high level of spaciousness, a mixture of high-quality materials, newly developed seats with integral head restraints and an exceptionally large panoramic glass roof immerse all 5 seats of the cabin in a luxurious, lounge-like ambience. The all-new architecture of the iX cabin underpins a perfectly clear and straightforward functionality that revolves entirely around the needs and emotions of the driver and their fellow occupants.
The drive concept means there is no centre tunnel, adding to the open, airy feel while also allowing extra legroom in the front and rear, sufficient space for storage facilities, and a centre console crafted to look like a high-quality piece of furniture.
The displays and controls are all stripped down to the essentials, further reinforcing the impression of an uncluttered cabin offering a place of relaxation. The technology used intelligently and only becomes visible when it is needed. This makes it intuitive to use rather than seeming overly complex.
The Head-Up Display’s projector is discreetly recessed into the instrument panel, so it is almost invisible. The hexagonally shaped steering wheel, a rocker switch for gear selection and the BMW Curved Display – which forms part of the next-generation BMW Operating System – clearly advertise the futuristic cockpit.
Intelligent lightweight design
The energy and range of the iX benefit from innovative solutions in the areas of lightweight design and aerodynamics. Its body structure, featuring an aluminium spaceframe and innovative Carbon Cage, can claim extremely high torsional stiffness, which in turn enhances agility and maximises occupant protection, while minimising weight. The intelligent material mix, with a variety of materials employed exactly where their specific properties can be utilised to best effect, is unique in this segment.
Together with the superior aerodynamics (0.25 Cd), the intelligent material mix helps to endow the iX with remarkably composed, relaxed driving characteristics combined with instant, precise response to every movement of the accelerator and turn of the steering wheel.
