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Shell Launches App – Fuel Payment, BonusLink Integrated

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Shell today introduces its app to add greater convenience for its consumers across the country. While fuel apps aren’t new, the Dutch O&G company is keen to clarify that its’ is the first fuel app in Malaysia to offer 3-D Secure verification (or a one-time PIN function), adding a layer of security to its functionalitites. 

“The Shell App not only allows our customers to pay for fuel securely from inside their cars, but also ensures that all journeys are easier and more rewarding. Our aim is to enhance your experience, and make things even more convenient for you.” – Seow Lee Ming, General Manager (Mobility), Shell Malaysia

On the 3-D Secure Verification function, this is likely due to the Shell app currently lacking e-wallet integration. As such, every payment transaction requires a one-time PIN (or OTP) from the customers’ bank to authorise transfers. Shell has however displayed commitment towards integrating an e-wallet function soon, to further the move towards greater customer ease.

Fuel isn’t the sole function of the app, though. The Shell app is integrated with Bonuslink allowing customers to gather points with every purchase without the need of a physical card. These points can be used to redeem fuel, coffee, or other products from the Shell Select online store. Integrating Bonuslink via the app allows customers to earn points not just from Shell purchases, but from 3,000 other merchants across the country.

The app also integrates the ability to locate the nearest Shell station, including a filter to find the features you’re looking for. Be it a surau, ATM, cafe, or carwash, the Shell app will locate the best, closest station to you.

On rollout, the Shell app will be usable at 650 Shell service stations across the country, with full nationwide usability expected by the end of the year. You can download the app via the Apple App Store or Google Play Store now.

Chery Omoda 5 Launched – 1.5T, 156hp/230Nm, RM109k

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Chinese carmaker Chery, the country’s most successful exporting automotive brand, has made a big comeback in Malaysia with two of their most successful models. Those with a slightly better memory may recall Chery being offered in Malaysia previously, with lacklustre models like the Eastar and Maxime MPVs, the QQ supermini, and the Tiggo SUV. 

Chery assures that things are different now – the brand has set up a local subsidiary to handle sales & distribution, unlike previously when it appointed a dealer instead. While the ‘Tiggo’ nameplate has returned for the Tiggo 8 Pro, the brand has also launched its B-segment SUV competitor, in the form of the Omoda 5 priced from RM108,800 for the C variant, and RM118,800 for the H.

Measuring 4,400mm long and 1,830mm wide and riding on a 2,630mm wheelbase, the Omoda 5 is slightly longer and wider than the Honda HR-V and larger in every dimension than the PROTON X50. Its more emotive design also marks a stark departure from the more conventional Honda & PROTON too. There’s no mistaking this for anything else.  

Then there’s the powertrain – while the Omoda 5 also takes the turbocharged route here, with its 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbo putting out 156hp and 230Nm. Power goes exclusively to the front wheels via a 9-speed CVT automatic gearbox too. This makes it a little less powerful than the turbocharged Honda HR-V and flagship PROTON X50, but does better than the lower-powered versions of PROTON’s crossover.  

The distinctive looks of the Omoda 5 begin with its face, where a large chrome-pinned grille is flanked above by a set of LED daytime running lights that double-up as scrolling indicators. Beneath those sit a pair of full-LED headlights with automatic high-beam functionality, giving the Omoda 5 a look that very few others dare to offer. 

Rolling stock is handled by 18-inch multi-tone alloys, while the rear of the Omoda 5 takes more Lexus-like cues with a pair of slim full-LED taillights that stretch across the tailgate. The ‘Chery’ script sits up high, while down below you’ll find a pair of (fake) exhaust exits on a heavily-sculpted lower bumper. While certainly a busy design, the Omoda 5’s focus on engaging looks geared towards younger buyers certainly fits the brief, though more conservative buyers will likely prefer what both Honda and PROTON offer instead.

The interior of the Omoda 5 is alot less divisive – derivative, more like. The dashboard takes a very horizontal design to emphasise width, replete with a full-width AC vent design sitting beneath twin 10.25-inch screens that handle infotainment and driver displays. HVAC controls are mounted on a touch panel beneath the centre vents, beneath which sit a pair of wireless phone chargers wrapped in grippy suede-like material. This pairs well with the standard wireless Apple Carplay & Android Auto, and provides a good viewing angle too. 

Ergonomics is a key factor for the marque, as evident by the relatively generous use of tactile buttons and switches to control major functions. We’re made to understand that Chery has engineered the switchgear to provide a “positive sensation” during use according to one of their executives, but we’ll have to refrain from comment until we review the Omoda 5 properly.

A quick aside on the HVAC system, you’ll find a dual-zone climate control system here as standard, though the higher H variant adds ventilated powered front seats, a powered tailgate, and a sunroof. There’s also an 8-speaker Sony audio system for the Omoda 5 H (six in the C), and a 360º camera that replaces the standard reverse camera in the entry-level variant.

Exterior differences between the C and H are limited to just some splashes of red throughout the place, including on inserts in the alloy wheels. The other key differentiator are the indicators – scrolling units are limited to the H, while the C models get ‘conventional’ units instead.  

Safety is managed by a generous list of active and passive safety systems. On the former, the Tiggo 8 Pro offers adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane departure alert & assist, blind-spot monitoring with door-open warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. It also offers hill descent control, tyre-pressure monitoring, and hill-start assist – we’d like to see if anyone would ever off-road an Omoda 5… 

Chery is assuaging customer concerns about reliability and serviceability in two ways: First, it has announced 31 operating showrooms nationwide that can handle sales & aftersales from point of launch, with more expected to open in the near future. Second, all new Chery models will come as standard with a 7-year/150,000km warranty and 5-years free service (with free labour for every alternate service). The first 3,000 Chery customers will also benefit from an industry-leading 10-year/1,000,000km powertrain warranty – for the 3,001st customer onwards, this coverage will set them back an additional RM2,000. 

It’s very clear that Chery, like many Chinese brands, have big ambitions. Malaysia will be a key market for them, having invested in assembly facilities in Kulim, Kedah and rolling out not just the Omoda 5 but the larger Tiggo 8 Pro in CKD-form from the get-go. Brand bosses have committed to Malaysia as their right-hand drive assembly and R&D hub too, eager to add value to the mature Malaysian automotive economy and to create high-value jobs in the sector. 

GALLERY – 2023 CHERY OMODA 5 C 1.5T CVT

Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Launched – 2.0 Turbo, 256hp/390Nm, RM160k

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Chinese carmaker Chery, the country’s most successful exporting automotive brand, has made a big comeback in Malaysia with two of their most successful models. Those with a slightly better memory may recall Chery being offered in Malaysia previously, with lacklustre models like the Eastar and Maxime MPVs, the QQ supermini, and the Tiggo SUV. 

Chery assures that things are different now – the brand has set up a local subsidiary to handle sales & distribution, unlike previously when it appointed a dealer instead. All that’s retained is the ‘Tiggo’ name, which makes its return to Malaysia as a prefix to the Tiggo 8 Pro, the marque’s flagship D-segment SUV, priced at RM159,800.

Measuring 4,722mm long and 1,860mm wide and riding on a 2,710mm wheelbase, the Tiggo 8 Pro is only slightly smaller than the recently-launched PROTON X90, though you wouldn’t guess it. The Tiggo 8 Pro’s bold and assertive design makes sure of that, with plenty of presence no matter which angle you take it in from. 

Power in the Tiggo 8 Pro comes from a 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine. Outputs are rated at 256hp and 390Nm, with power going to the front wheels via a 7-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox. Eco, Normal and Sport drive modes are available, but no paddle shifters. This eclipses the 190PS & 300Nm on offer from PROTON’s 48V MHEV system – Chery says this is the “most powerful vehicle in the segment,” though we suspect they’ve overlooked the 2.5-litre turbocharged Mazda CX-8. 

The face of the Tiggo 8 Pro is highlighted by the large ‘galaxy grille,’ replete with diamond-shaped chrome pins that expand from an illuminated badge. On the latter, the Chery logo illuminates when the car unlocks and syncs with the headlights (and taillights) as an element of the car’s ‘welcome’ function. On either side sits full LED headlights, which include a scrolling indicator function and automatic high-beam.

Rolling stock is handled by 19-inch multi-tone alloys, wrapped in 235/55 section tyres. The rear is crowned by a light-bar that stretches across the tailgate, beneath which you’ll find quad exhaust pipes. It’s a very elegant-looking machine, as befits its D-segment SUV positioning – competitors like Mazda’s CX-8 and PROTON’s X90 also go the same route. 

But it’s the interior of the Tiggo 8 Pro that really sets it apart. Emphasising the width of the interior is a broad dash design that incorporates full-spanning elements to make it all feel expansive. At the top you’ll find a pair of 10.25-inch screens, handling driver information and infotainment duties. Graphics are clean and progress is smooth, and features (wired) Apple Carplay & Android Auto as standard. Sound duties are handled by an 8-speaker Sony audio system as standard, hiding behind Burmeister-eque speaker grilles.

Chery has resisted the urge to incorporate everything into the screen by positioning the HVAC controls on a separate (touch-sensitive) panel beneath the centre screen. Ergonomics is a key factor for the marque, as evident by the relatively generous use of tactile buttons and switches to control major functions. We’re made to understand that Chery has engineered the switchgear to provide a “positive sensation” during use according to one of their executives, but we’ll have to refrain from comment until we review the Tiggo 8 Pro properly.

A quick aside on the HVAC system, you’ll find a dual-zone climate control system here, as well as heated and cooled front seats. This should ensure that even with the sun beating down through the panoramic sunroof, everyone should remain comfortable.

The seating layout is in a 2-3-2 setup, with Chery themselves describing the Tiggo 8 Pro as a 5+2. Indeed the third row is a little cramped compared to the PROTON X90 and Mazda CX-8, but if they’re for occasional use only (as tends to be the case with SUVs in this class), all should remain well. 

Other standard features of the Tiggo 8 Pro include keyless entry and go (including a nifty walk-away lock), multi-colour ambient lighting, electric tailgate, wireless smartphone charging, an electronic parking brake, and a standard 360º camera. 

Safety is managed by a generous list of active and passive safety systems. On the former, the Tiggo 8 Pro offers adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane departure alert & assist, blind-spot monitoring with door-open warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. And on the passive side, the Tiggo 8 Pro offers more airbags than any other competitor in the segment. 

Chery is assuaging customer concerns about reliability and serviceability in two ways: First, it has announced 31 operating showrooms nationwide that can handle sales & aftersales from point of launch, with more expected to open in the near future. Second, all new Chery models will come as standard with a 7-year/150,000km warranty and 5-years free service (with free labour for every alternate service). The first 3,000 Chery customers will also benefit from an industry-leading 10-year/1,000,000km powertrain warranty – for the 3,001st customer onwards, this coverage will set them back an additional RM2,000. 

It’s very clear that Chery, like many Chinese brands, have big ambitions. Malaysia will be a key market for them, having invested in assembly facilities in Kulim, Kedah and rolling out not just the Tiggo 8 Pro but the smaller Omoda 5 in CKD-form from the get-go. Brand bosses have committed to Malaysia as their right-hand drive assembly and R&D hub too, eager to add value to the mature Malaysian automotive economy and to create high-value jobs in the sector. 

GALLERY – 2023 CHERY TIGGO 8 PRO LUXURY

2020 Hyundai Elantra Launched – 7th-Generation, Smartstream 1.6, RM158,888

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Hyundai Sime Darby Motors, the official distributor for Hyundai vehicles in Malaysia, today launched the new Hyundai Elantra in our market. Now in its 7th generation, the Elantra represents Hyundai’s entrant into the highly-competitive C-segment saloon space, where it will inevitably do battle with the Honda Civic, and the Toyota Corolla among others.

Hyundai’s decision to bring in the Elantra is a commendable one – amidst an environment that clearly favours SUVs, for a relatively small company to offer a relatively-niche product now is certainly a bold & brave decision, though there’s more to it than that. We will get to that a little bit later. 

Compared to the competition, the Elantra fares favourably. For one thing, spec-for-spec, it is now on par with the Japanese stalwarts. Every conceivable modern convenience feature is available – from active safety systems to keyless entry and go, the new Elantra will not be another compromised product from the Korean marque. However, it does dispense of one of Hyundai’s key brand strengths that it’s had for some time: At RM158,888, the new Elantra disposes of the traditional price advantage that we’ve come to expect from the brand, and positions itself as a premium left-field option.

Fortune favours the bold as they say, and ‘bold’ is definitely the word we’d use to describe the new Elantra. Wearing the new Parametric Dynamics design language proudly, the new Elantra offers cuts, creases, and complex surfacing resulting in a truly dramatic design that’s sure to turn heads. The face is dominated by the huge ‘Cascading Grille,’ which is of a size we’ve never seen before on the Elantra, framed by a pair of full-LED headlights and a remarkably-complex bumper design that is somehow not all that fussy when taken in as a whole, despite its integration of the air curtain at the lower corners.

This is evident down the side, where the complex surfacing results in a truly masterful execution of metal origami. It’s clear that Hyundai’s embracing its desire to be bold and different with the Elantra, and it’s likely going to appeal to buyers who want to be seen as a bit left of field. The Elantra rides on 17” alloy wheels with a diamond-cut finish, which admittedly looks a little bit like what we’ve seen on the Honda Civic…

At the rear however, there’s no question what this is and what it represents. The most distinctive rear element is by far are the taillights, with their full-width elements that emphasise the width of the Elantra and make it look more squat. Thanks to the sloping roofline, the rear windscreen tapers off neatly towards the tail, with a little ‘ducktail spoiler’ integrated into the bootlid. The bumper in comparison looks rather plain but to be fair, if it had been as complex as the rest of the design, it may have been too much to take in.

The new Hyundai Elantra is powered by a new powertrain option, the Smartstream G1.6. As the name suggests, the Smartstream mill here is a 1.6-litre naturally-aspirated engine, producing 123PS and 154Nm, with power going to the front wheels via a Smartstream ‘Intelligent Variable Transmission.’ The IVT is essentially a continuously-variable transmission with 8 simulated ratios, which makes use of a chain-type transmission belt over a more conventional metal belt, improving performance efficiency by 5%. The IVT is also so-named because of its more natural transmission nature, integrating shift points that change depending on the drive mode selected. All the power efficiency, and no shift-shock.

On the subject of drive modes, the Elantra will provide drivers with a choice between Normal, Eco, and Sport, while the fourth is a ‘Smart’ mode. The first three are self-explanatory, but the fourth mode uses the vehicle’s sensors to detect the driving style employed by the driver and adjusts various parameters around the car accordingly. 

The new Elantra certainly doesn’t skimp on cabin space – with a longer and wider body sat on a longer wheelbase, it feels absolutely cavernous inside. If you feel the Elantra looks sleeker and slinkier than before, that’s owing to the lower roofline – as a result, the new Elantra looks like a much more lithe and agile machine than before.

But it doesn’t sacrifice practicality, not even in the slightest. The boot now measures 474L before folding the rear seats down, which then opens up even more room for the most ambitious IKEA shoppers. And with the seats up, you’ll find plenty of space for four, or five in a pinch. You’ll find two ISOFIX mounts in the rear as well as rear air conditioning vents, but it’s a shame there isn’t a USB port at the rear. 

Up front though you’ll find the biggest demonstration of Hyundai’s new-found maturity – there’s a clear visual separation between driver and front passenger, emphasised further in the light-grey cabin. The driver’s seat is powered while the passenger’s is manual, but both benefit from ventilation and heating (yes, heating). The steering wheel & door mirrors are heated too – when asked, Hyundai Sime Darby explained that as they wanted ventilation for our market, the heating for the seats, steering wheel and mirrors came as part of a singular package, so they had little choice in the matter.

One area where HSDM had plenty of choice, and made the right ones, were in the way of safety. The standard features are all there, with ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Management, Hill-Assist Control, and Tyre Pressure Monitoring, along with 6-airbags dotted around the cabin. 

Where the Elantra really pushes the boat out is in terms of active safety: Hyundai SmartSense comes as standard on the new Elantra, and offers things like Autonomous Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Lane Keep Assist with Follow (effectively offering Level 2 autonomy), Forward Collision Avoidance (with vehicle, pedestrian, and cyclist detection), Junction-Collision Avoidance, Blind Spot Monitoring with Collision Avoidance Assistance, Rear Cross Traffic Alert with Rear AEB, Safe Exit Warning, Driver Drowsiness Alert, and Forward Departure Alert. There’s also Rear Occupant Alert too, to avoid those tragic incidences where children & pets are accidentally left in cars. 

It’s clear with the new Elantra that Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors is charting a new course for the brand. No longer a budget alternative to the Japanese institutions, Hyundai is wholeheartedly embracing its image as a brand for the bold and left-of-field, and now its cars fit the description too. Save for the Grand Starex, the Hyundai we see before us is almost entirely reinvented, with its new lineup indicative of their ambition as they move into the future. 

However, there’s no doubt that the Elantra will face quite the uphill battle – at RM158,888, the new Elantra is pegged against more established rivals like the Mazda 3 (RM154,680), and well above competitors like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla which top out at RM139,600 and RM139,888 respectively. That said, Hyundai Sime Darby is targeting a sales figure of around about 2,000 annually, so it’s pretty clear that they understand that it won’t be a walk in the park for them.

The new Hyundai Elantra will be available in 4 colours, namely Polar White, Electric Shadow, Amazon Grey, and Intense Blue. All new Hyundai models come with a 5-year/300,000km warranty, and is available for viewing at showrooms nationwide. 

So what do you think of the new Elantra? Let us know in the comments below.

2020 PROTON Saga Anniversary Edition – Only 1,100 Units, RM39,300

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National automotive flagbearer PROTON has today marked the 35th birthday of their inaugural Saga, the model that started it all, with a commemorative limited edition version of its compact saloon. With a production run of just 1,100 units, the 35th anniversary model will surely be a hot commodity – especially since its RM39,300 price means it asks no more than the model upon which it’s based.

On that subject, there are no major mechanical or specification changes, aside from the aesthetics. So under the bonnet still lies a 1.3L VVT engine producing 95PS and 120Nm, sending power to the front wheels via a Hyundai 4AT transmission. There are still things like electronic stability control, electronic brake distribution with brake assist, anti-lock brakes, hill-hold assist, and two airbags, as well as the LED daytime running lights that came as part of the facelift last year. The interior specification remains the same too – touchscreen infotainment unit, a smarter-designed meter cluster, and plusher fabrics used for the headlining and seat upholstery.

Now, onto the special bits. The 35th anniversary Saga marries a unique black paintjob with yellow accents, namely on the upper grille, the rear bumper garnish, and the wing mirrors. Not to be overlooked are the alloys – while they’re the same 15-inch units as before, they’ve now been given a matte-grey finish with a high-gloss silver lip, making them stand out quite a bit (and no doubt giving current owners ideas).

Inside, the air-conditioning surrounds on either side are done in gloss black, while the vent sliders are finished in the same matching yellow hue. Not to end there, the same colour is applied to the meter cluster surrounds, as well as to the little ‘tray’ that sits beneath the ‘PROTON’ script in the centre stack.

Unfortunately however, the snazzy bodykit you see here (door visors, front lip & side skirts) are an option, along with some new items like a boot tray, bonnet NVH insulator (called ‘NVH Guard’), and boot NVH insulator (also called ‘NVH Guard’). For the time being, these items can be bundled together on the Anniversary Edition or any facelifted PROTON Saga for RM2,035 – which represents a major savings given that individually-optioned they’d come up to RM2,350.

PROTON also took the opportunity to announce that the new Saga Anniversary Edition will come fitted with an N95-grade cabin air filter, which will now be offered on all new PROTON cars and be available for retrofitment on existing models. Retailing at RM59, these N95 filters will come in very handy to filter out smoke particulates, certain bacteria, and other harmful elements in the air. And between now and the 9th of October 2020, the N95 filter retrofit will be offered at a promotional price of just under RM52.

The Saga is an important model for PROTON, being the entry-level model into the lineup. Of the cars that were introduced through the course of 2019, the Saga was given the most attention by DRB-Hicom & Geely in its refresh. The new PROTON team made major upgrades to the Saga’s refinement, poise, and even its driving characteristics, enhancing a car that has was always impressive at its core but disappointed in the details.

With a more refined finish than ever before, plus the added emphasis by PROTON to keep customers excited and engaged, we’ve no doubt that there are many, many chapters to go in the story of the PROTON Saga.

What’s your Saga story? Let us know in the comments below!

2020 Range Rover Evoque – 2 Variants, 2 Power Outputs, From RM427k

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Sime Darby, the official distributor of Land Rover vehicles in Malaysia, has today launched the all-new 2nd-generation Range Rover Evoque to much fanfare, marking the reintroduction of the incredibly successful ‘baby-Rangie’ to the lineup. Since it was introduced internationally in late 2018, the new Range Rover Evoque has won much acclaim from critics and buyers across the globe, and it is set to continue that trend here.

“The Range Rover Evoque has been a fundamental driver in Jaguar Land Rover’s global success. Since it first rolled off the Halewood production line, we have exported 80 per cent of all we have made. Our commitment to UK production remains firm and the new Evoque benefits from a £1bn investment. With this, we are introducing new technology and Range Rover refinement into the luxury compact SUV segment that the original model created.”

– Dr. Ralf Speth, Chief Executive Officer, Jaguar-Land Rover

Sitting on an all-new platform, the new Range Rover Evoque carries on the aesthetics first seen by the Velar. As such the headlights & taillights, which are full-LEDs, are now slimmer & wider than before. They now also feature scrolling indicators like the Velar, though the headlights now have an adaptive beam technology that ensure that full-beam can be used more often without dazzling other road users. The doors also feature retractable door handles like the Velar, which now sit flush against the door panels until the car is unlocked or if they are ‘made’ to appear.

The Evoque’s new platform features a longer & wider wheelbase than before, and dimensions have grown noticeably. At 4371mm long, 1966mm wide, and 1649mm tall, the Evoque is now larger than the outgoing model in every measurable way, which means that interior space has benefitted massively. For starters, the boot now features 591L of cargo room with the rear seats up, expandable to 1,383L with the seats folded, all of which is accessible via the all-electric one-piece tailgate.

And when you step inside, you discover that the new Evoque has more room for passengers too, with rear seat occupants entitled to more leg- and head-room than the previous model could have even dreamed of.

But the real kicker is up front, where the old Evoque is left for dead by the new kid on the block. The highlight of the cabin is no doubt the screens – innovatively called TouchPro Duo, the system comprises of two glass-fronted 10-inch infotainment screens placed atop each other, with the upper half dedicated to media functions while the lower one handles HVAC controls, TerrainResponse 2 (standard on the new Evoque) and so on. These screens work in tandem with the 12.3-inch digital drivers display that sits ahead of the driver, which clearly & elegantly display all the necessary driving information.

There’s actually one more screen that we have to talk about: Dubbed ClearSight Rear View, the centre rear-view mirror can now be turned into a screen (standard on R-Dynamic only) which activates a camera mounted above the car allowing for totally clear, unobstructed views rearward with a 50-degree viewing angle. This effectively overcomes the rather compromised rear view from within the cabin (owing to the sloping roofline and narrow rear window) and means that even if your Evoque is full of people and stuff, you’ll still be able to see out.

That’s not all – ClearSight Ground View now offers a full 180-degree view of the road ahead, and even between the two front wheels, essentially ‘eliminating’ the blind-spot created by your bonnet. As such, Land Rover says that this will make navigating the Evoque through tight city streets, compact parking spaces, and rough off-road terrain that much easier (notice how they mentioned the off-roading part last?).

Regardless of on- or off-road, and irrespective of Evoque or Evoque R-Dynamic, power still comes from a 2.0-litre turbocharged Ingenium engine paired to an 8-speed automatic gearbox. Both cars feature a nifty little thing called Active Driveline Disconnect that de-couples the rear-wheels during day-to-day driving to improve fuel economy, but is able to re-engage them almost instantly should the car demand extra traction. Outputs differ though: The base Evoque puts out 200PS and 320Nm, while the Evoque R-Dynamic offers 249PS and 365Nm. As such, the R-Dynamic is able to hit the century mark in just 7.5-seconds, while the base Evoque does the same a second slower at 8.5-seconds.

The R-Dynamic does add a few more bits and bobs too. While the standard car features things like Lane Keep Assist and Driver Drowsiness Alert, the R-Dynamic adds a full gamut of active safety kit like blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, full-speed Autonomous Emergency Braking, and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. This at least goes some way to soften the blow of the pricing, given that the compact-sized Evoque is priced against much larger rivals like the BMW X5 xDrive45e and the Volvo XC90 T8 Inscription Plus despite being the size of a BMW X3 or a Volvo XC60.

The Range Rover Evoque range starts at RM426,828 for the base model without SST, while the Range Rover Evoque R-Dynamic with its more comprehensive kit list and punchier engine goes for RM475,398 without SST. All new Evoques will be sold with a 5-year/150,000km warranty, a 5-year/65,000km free service package, as well as 3-years roadside assistance. The new Range Rover Evoque is available for viewing from today at Land Rover dealerships across the country.

For the best deals on a new Range Rover, check out our Facebook page where you can fill in your details and get the best deal & buying experience on a new Range Rover Evoque (or any car for that matter).

2020 Toyota RAV4 Revealed – 2.0 and 2.5, From RM196k

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UMW Toyota Malaysia has today unveiled their latest entrant into the burgeoning SUV space, in the form of the all-new Toyota RAV4. The RAV4 is an important nameplate not just for Toyota but for the crossover segment as a whole, as it’s widely credited for establishing the urban-focused high-riding utility vehicle that everyone so desperately wants today. And in this latest generation, Toyota has aimed to move forward with the sort of confidence that only they could have with the RAV4 brand, and they certainly have done.

The new RAV4 is underpinned by Toyota’s New Global Architecture or TNGA, which offers better packaging, more efficient use of material, and overall weight savings while also improving rigidity. TNGA also means that the new RAV4 can make full use of Toyota’s newest engines – the RAV4 is available with DynamicForce petrol engines in both 2.0-litre and 2.4-litre displacements, with a CVT automatic for the former and an 8-speed torque-converter automatic for the latter. Both are exclusively front-wheel drive.

While the engines offer some choice, the rest of the RAV4 packaging locally does not. Both cars are identically equipped: Both run on 18-inch alloy wheels, both cars get 6 exterior colour options, they feature LED headlights, the cabin trim are identical… We’re not sure what UMW Toyota is getting at here, but we’re sure that when we do get to ask them what was going through their minds, we’ll get a satisfactory answer.

What we certainly appreciate with the new RAV4 is the comprehensive list of safety features. The new SUV arrives with Toyota Safety Suite as standard, which comprises of adaptive cruise control, collision warning, lane departure warning with lane-keep assist, as well as an automatic high-beam function. This puts the RAV4 on par with segment stalwarts like the Honda CR-V and the PROTON X70; However, the RAV4 is a fully-imported model, which brings about its own issues that we’ll get to later.

Inside, we finally get to see Toyota getting a little more playful after they admitted to playing it safe for far too long. Major touchpoints within the cabin benefit from soft-touch materials to elevate the sensory experience, while key features such as a semi-digital instrument cluster, large infotainment screen with Apple & Android smartphone mirroring, Qi wireless charging, as well as an electrically-adjustable driver’s seat with memory functionality means that you’re certainly given a premium feel. There’s also dual-zone climate control & front-seat ventilation, which again puts it on par with the PROTON X70.

There’s masses of space for people and luggage alike: Toyota boasts class-leading bootspace, thanks to packaging ingenuity. A feature that we like alot is the reversible boot floor, that allows you to reverse the side used to floor the boot from either a carpeted surface (good for luggage bags & general day-to-day flotsam) to a waterproof, hard-wearing plastic surface that’s more suited to dirtier, or wet items. Further, the boot floor can be adjusted from a high position (offering a lip-less cargo space) to a lower position that can better accommodate taller items. Of course, the rear seats can also be folded 60:40 or completely flat, should you find yourself in IKEA over the weekend.

The new Toyota RAV4 will be available in showrooms this week, with prices starting at RM196,436 for the 2.0-litre model, and topping out at RM215,664.50 for the 2.5-litre model. All cars will benefit from a 5-year warranty as well as manufacturer-backed servicing & aftersales.

2021 Perodua Alza (D27A) Shaping Up – 1.0-Turbo or 1.2-Hybrid, DNGA

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It seems that the reality is forming at Perodua to finally usher in a replacement for its venerable Alza MPV – while the 7-seater’s sales remain surprisingly strong, with over a decade under its belt, it is about time that it is sent off to the figurative scrapyard in the sky. The Alza it seems is about to play a supporting role in Perodua’s ongoing transformation into a value-brand rather than a budget-brand it seems, preceded only by the D55L that we are insistent must go to market as the ‘Kembara.’

According to a report from Indonesia, Astra Daihatsu are in the very early stages of preparing a replacement for their Daihatsu Xenia, which is familiar to all and sundry here as the Toyota Avanza. For all intents and purposes the two cars are the same there, sharing just about everything, including most of their skin. Astra Daihatsu however is saying that their next Xenia will be a 2+2+2 rather than the 2+3+2 that we’re more familiar with, which has led us to connect the dots.

Some time ago at the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show 2017 (GIIAS), Daihatsu brought the world the DN Multisix concept, which previewed a low-roofed compact MPV that was tipped to be the precursor to a Avanza-replacing model. That Multisix was later brought to Tokyo in 2017, where it sat alongside the DN Trec concept, which has since gestated into the Toyota Raize & Daihatsu Rocky duo, which are tipped to be a foreshadowing of the upcoming Perodua D55L ‘Kembara.’

Autonetmagz had more to share, however. In addition to leaking the progress of the information, they report that the DN Multisix will go into production running on Daihatsu’s New Global Architecture (DNGA), and be powered by either a 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbocharged motor, or curiously, a 1.2-litre hybrid powertrain. Notably, the former powerplant is heavily rumoured to go into production in Malaysia with the D55L ‘Kembara,’ whereas we all recall the strange ‘hybrid powertrain concept’ that Perodua had on display at KLIMS18, right? Could the D27A Alza be the model that brings electrification to the Perodua lineup?

Either way, what we’re certain of seeing here is significant Malaysian input – it is no secret that Perodua a gem in ASEAN to both Toyota & Daihatsu, with the Sg. Choh company investing billions of Ringgit into improving their R&D facilities in order to take the lead. While we’re likely to see another Aruz this time around (in the sense that the differentiation will be less obvious among its Daihatsu & Toyota siblings rather than the Myvi and the JDM Sirion & Passo), once again we will have to highlight the level of involvement that Perodua will bring to the table. With Malaysian engineers & designers from Perodua permanently stationed in Japan to work with both Daihatsu & Toyota, this is certainly no rebadge effort. This is not the Perodua of the past.

However, if you’re looking at your bank balance and wondering if you can stretch for a new Alza, we have to rain on your parade – Perodua has emphasized on multiple occasions that it has the capacity to release 1 minor model change & 1 full model change every year. This year has seen the debut of the Perodua Bezza facelift, and it’s widely expected to see the arrival of the D55L Kembara too. Which means that, in all likelihood, the D27A Alza will be scheduled for a launch sometime in Q3 or Q4 2021.

Plenty of time to gather a downpayment, then.

City Architecture for Tomorrow Challenge Launched, By Toyota Mobility Foundation

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Japanese automotive juggernaut Toyota’s mobility-forward arm, Toyota Mobility Foundation, have today launched a next-generation urban development & traffic management global challenge today in Kuala Lumpur, with our capital city acting as the global testbed for the initiative. Named ‘City Architecture for Tomorrow Challenge’ (or CATCH), the challenge is to use data provided by partnering agencies, private firms and the Government to come up with innovative mobility solutions that improve overall mobility in the city.

Toyota Mobility Foundation (TMF) selected Kuala Lumpur after looking at several other capital cities around the world, convinced that our inclusive society, impressive technology penetration levels, and mobility data availability would make for the perfect pilot city. Working together with the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), CATCH is Asia’s first global challenge that will attract innovative, data-driven entries from global participants. The aim is to raise efficiency in urban planning, and drive forward the future of mobility.

The launch event, held at the Intercontinental Hotel in Kuala Lumpur, was graced by KL Mayor Dato’ Nor Hisham Ahmad Dahlan.

KL Mayor, Dato’ Nor Hisham Ahmad Dahlan

CATCH will seek to address mobility challenges in Kuala Lumpur with a global call for solutions. In the next 8 months, participants – who can come from startups, academic & research institutions, or even members of the general public – can ideate, conceptualise, and develop dynamic, intelligent, data-driven solutions that will help design future city infrastructures.

“TMF was set up to address mobility issues around the world, using a unique approach driven by sustainability, innovation, and partnership. CATCH was designed in partnership with the Malaysian government, to encourage data-driven but human-centered interventions to improve city planning and the mobility ecosystem.”

Shin Aoyama, President of Secretariat, Toyota Mobility Foundation

“Through CATCH, the global pool of talented startups, academics, and the world’s brightest minds can develop their next-generation urban digitalisation ideas and accelerate Kuala Lumpur’s evolution into a city of the future. The program is in-line with MDEC’s efforts to drive forward the country’s digital economy, catalyse next-generation innovation through Malaysia’s Global Testbed Initiative and reinforce the country’s position as the Heart of Digital ASEAN.”

Surina Shukri, Chief Executive Officer, Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC)

CATCH will provide participants with data to empower them to develop solutions that will be selected in accordance with the Personal Data Protection Act. The data partners are made up of both public & private sectors that have different data points of a commuter’s journey, such as Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), Polis DiRaja Malaysia, Agensi Pengangkutan Awam Darat, Grab, MapIT MSC, Mass Rapid Transit Corporation (MRT Corp), and Prasarana Malaysia.

Additionally, TMF will provide grants at every stage of the challenge, dipping into a US$1.5-million grant pool that will support teams towards the development & trial-testing of the solutions in Kuala Lumpur. Participants will also have access to expert mentors & an incubation period.

Volvo Car Malaysia Records Superb 2019 – 36.1% Sales Increase Year-On-Year

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Resurgent luxury marque Volvo has had a splendid year in our market in 2019, as announced at a media event today. Speaking on behalf of the managing director of Volvo Car Malaysia (who was called away due to a personal emergency), marketing & PR director Mr. Akhtar Sulaiman revealed just how well Volvo performed in our market last year, despite an overall decline in the luxury segment.

Beating the odds against a shrinking premium car market, Volvo Car Malaysia logged an increase of 36.1% in retail sales for 2019, with a total of 1,883 cars delivered. The Volvo plant in Shah Alam produced a total of nearly 5,000 cars last year too, with the remaining 3,000+ cars that the plant produced exported to various ASEAN countries (in both left- and right-hand drive forms).

Mr. Akhtar Sulaiman, Director of Marketing & PR, Volvo Car Malaysia

The exemplary performance in 2019 was propelled by major product introductions, like the 2019 Malaysia Car of the Year (Compact SUV/Crossover) XC40 T5 R-Design, the world-renowned and multi-award winning XC90 facelift, as well as the S60 T8 R-Design compact executive saloon. In 2020, the company expects to maintain its momentum off the back of the S60 (now in CKD form), as well as the “S90 facelift,” which was confirmed in the press release without a potential release date given.

2019 also saw the establishment of 5 new Volvo dealerships across the country, to which Volvo has confirmed they will add one more in the city of Kota Kinabalu, Sabah this year. Notably, Malaysia is the second market in Asia Pacific to boast a full 100% implementation of the ‘Volvo Retail Experience’ dealership standard, backed by the arrival of their renewed regional training centre.

Volvo Retail Experience space, within the Volvo Car Regional Training Centre

Volvo Car Malaysia is set to enjoy momentous growth in 2020, thanks to its already-strong portfolio of models, as well as #recharged models on the way. With production of the XC40 in its stride (though a waiting list still exists for the ‘tough little robot’) and the S60 T8 gaining momentum in the compact-executive saloon space, bolstered by the XC90’s position as the only large premium SUV in the space below RM600,000, we’ve little doubt that by this time next year, they’ll have even better numbers to report.