2020 Perodua Myvi – ASA 2.0 On More Variants, Now From RM42k

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The Malaysian automotive darling that is the Perodua Myvi has received a mild update for 2020, bringing it up to par with its siblings in terms of safety and bumping it a little further in terms of desirability. With an average of 100,000 units sold per-year since its introduction, the Perodua Myvi has long held the title of being Malaysia’s most favoured ride – and now with the 2020 updates, it’s set to retain that honour for a little while longer.

Perodua has updated the Myvi with Advanced Safety Assist 2.0, which debuted first with the flagship Aruz SUV before trickling down into the 2019 Perodua Axia and the 2020 Perodua Bezza. ASA (1.0) first came about when the 3rd generation Myvi was launched back in 2017, and consisted of Pre-Collision Warning & Pre-Collision Braking (up to 30km/h), Front Departure Alert, and Pedal Misoperation Control. With ASA 2.0, the latter two functions remain, but the pre-collision warning & braking are now effective at speeds of up to 100km/h and 80km/h respectively; Additionally, ASA 2.0 now tacks on Pedestrian Detection, at speeds of up to 50km/h.

Also new for 2020 is the ‘Electric Blue’ hue, as seen here, which is available across the range. The favourite ‘Granite Grey’ has now also been made available on all but the 1.3G variants too, allowing more choice for Perodua’s customers

There are no mechanical changes to report with the 2020 Perodua Myvi, which means there’s still an option between a 1.3-litre VVT engine and a 1.5-litre VVT engine, putting out 94hp/121Nm and 102hp/136Nm respectively, mated to a 4-speed automatic on all but the base 1.3G, which gets the option of a 5-speed manual as well.

Speaking of which, the range has been updated a bit here too. The new lineup now reflects the optional ASA 2.0 on the 1.3X variants, as well as its standard fitment on the 1.5H and 1.5AV.

Variant Pricing (With Changes, No SST)
2020 Perodua Myvi 1.3G (MT) RM41,292 (unchanged)
2020 Perodua Myvi 1.3G (AT) RM43,029 (unchanged)
2020 Perodua Myvi 1.3X (AT) RM44,959 (unchanged)
2020 Perodua Myvi 1.3X (AT), With ASA 2.0 RM46,959 (new variant)
2020 Perodua Myvi 1.5H (AT), With ASA 2.0 RM50,530 (+RM2,000)
2020 Perodua Myvi 1.5AV (AT), With ASA 2.0 RM52,697 (+500)

“With the inclusion of ASA 2.0, the Perodua Myvi takes advanced safety to a whole new level at this price point, and it’s nw more widely available within the lineup. The latest Myvi carries on the Perodua tradition of bringing advanced safety technology to the people, by making it more affordable and accessible to all.” – Dato’ Zainal Abidin Ahmad, President and Chief Executive Officer, Perodua

The updated 2020 Perodua Myvi is available in showrooms nationwide, with order books open today.

2020 PERODUA MYVI – GALLERY

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 Perodua Myvi S-Edition Lands In Brunei?

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GHK Motors Sdn. Bhd., the sole authorised distributor of Perodua vehicles in the nation of Brunei, has launched the all-new Perodua Myvi at its showroom in Bandar Seri Begawan today via digital soft-launch, in keeping with COVID-19 preventative measures in place in Brunei to minimise social gatherings.

The soft-launching was to mark the official introduction of the all-new Perodua Myvi there, available as a 1.3G variant. However, there was the added surprise of the Perodua Myvi S-Edition, which comes equipped with a bodykit.

2020 Perodua Myvi S-Edition, Brunei

As far as we can tell, the bodykit is designed to look like what was first seen on the Perodua Myvi GT concept that debuted to the public at the 2018 Kuala Lumpur International Motorshow, which has since sparked heavy speculation that the Sg. Choh company may be looking to introduce hotter variants of its popular Myvi in the future.

Very few photos of the Perodua Myvi S-Edition have surfaced, but it seems to us that the changes are purely cosmetic, marrying a bodykit and some black-painted alloys to an otherwise standard Myvi. We are certain that it is not the 1.5AV as it lacks the ASA camera module on the windscreen – we have strong reason to believe that it is based on the Perodua Myvi 1.3G, the standard model that’s been greenlit for sale there.

A video has surfaced showing that the interior matches that of the 1.3G, with fabric seats, a basic audio headunit, and a steering wheel without multifunction controls. We expect to see no changes to the mechanicals either.

We have contacted Perodua to ask for comment on the launch of the Perodua Myvi S-Edition in Brunei.

2020 Perodua Myvi S-Edition, Brunei

*This is a developing story, which will be updated with further information as it becomes available.

  • 2020 Perodua Myvi S-Edition, Brunei
  • 2020 Perodua Myvi S-Edition, Brunei
  • 2020 Perodua Myvi S-Edition, Brunei
  • 2018 Perodua Myvi GT Concept – KLIMS’18
  • 2018 Perodua Myvi GT Concept – KLIMS’18
  • 2018 Perodua Myvi GT Concept – KLIMS’18
  • 2018 Perodua Myvi GT Concept – KLIMS’18

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.

2020 BMW X5 xDrive45e Lands – 3.0 I-6, 394PS, RM441k Without SST

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A year after its pure-combustion sibling made its debut, BMW Group Malaysia has finally unveiled the long-awaited X5 xDrive45e PHEV, which will take the place of the mightily-successful F15 predecessor model. Dubbed the G05, the new X5 PHEV has big shoes to fill – thankfully, it seems to be intent on doing so just fine.

Under the skin you’ll find a brand new chassis, upon which sits a brand new powertrain. Gone is the strained 2.0-litre 4-cylinder that was the bugbear of many owners (of both the X5 as well as the pre-LCI G01 7-Series PHEV), and in its place stands a beefier 3.0-litre straight-6 mill. Aside from providing the soundtrack that any self-respecting BMW owner should demand, it also puts out a more meaty 286PS and 450Nm, making it a pretty brawny thing alone even before you consider the added pep that the plug-in hybrid side of the powertrain offers.

The X5 xDrive45e also comes with an electric motor, sandwiched between the 3.0-litre petrol mill up front and the ZF 8-speed automatic gearbox. That motor provides on its own an additional 113PS and 265Nm, though BMW claims the combined output looks like 394hp and 600Nm. Despite the sheer size of the G05, the plug-in hybrid X5 can sprint from 0-100km/h in just 5.6-seconds, before going on to a top speed of 235km/h.

The new G05 doesn’t just have performance stats to offer, but proper eco-friendly credentials too. Thanks to a new 24kWh battery, the G05 X5 can run zero-emissions for 77km on a full charge (according to BMW Malaysia). As a result, it is reasonable to assume that most Malaysian owners who keep their X5’s juiced-up will be able to complete most of their weekly runs on pure electric power alone, contributing to a low 2.5L/100km claimed fuel consumption figure. The only drawback to this is the charging times: Due to the enormity of the battery, the X5 xDrive45e requires 6.8-hours to charge from flat to full via a Type-2 3.7kW connector, but plugged into a standard 230V 3-point domestic plug it’ll take about 11-hours. Yikes.

Inside, the cockpit of the New BMW X5 xDrive45e M Sport is stylishly fitted with Leather Vernasca upholstery for a touch of elegance. The interior also features M leather steering wheel, an electrically adjustable steering wheel, Sport front seats with memory function for the driver’s seat, four-zone automatic air conditioning and the instrument panel in Sensatec. Excellent music for driving is further boosted with the 464W 16-Speaker Harman Kardon surround sound system.

The new SAV comes with a boot capacity that can be easily increased from 500 litres to 1,720 litres. The new SAV also comes with automatic tailgate operation with contactless opening and closing functions, along with a two-section tailgate for ease of loading. The top section can be opened electrically, while the bottom section is released manually.

The highlight of the new BMW X5 xDrive45e M-Sport is the BMW Live Cockpit Professional with Gesture Control and Intelligent Personal Assistant. The BMW Live Cockpit Professional combines the 12.3-inch Fully Digital Instrument Display with an equally large touchscreen Control Display. Rear passengers will be able to enjoy the Rear Seat Entertainment Professional with a 10.2-inch touchscreen monitor. Wireless charging is also offered for added convenience on the road. Next-level driving assistance is offered via the BMW Personal CoPilot, which includes Lane Departure Warning and Lane Changing Warning. The system also features Frontal Collision Warning with braking intervention, Rear Crossing Traffic Warning, Rear Collision Prevention, as well as speed limit info.

The BMW X5 xDrive45e does a very good job of lowering the local cost of entry into the X5 range – at RM440,745 it is significantly cheaper than its pure-combustion brother, which debuted in Malaysia at RM618,888. That said, the greener sibling will face very, very stiff competition from the beloved & respected Volvo XC90, which was recently refreshed to improve its overall packaging as well as its price, which tops out at RM409,888 for the fully-loaded T8 TwinEngine Inscription Plus variant.

All new BMW X5 xDrive45e’s will be available with a 5-year/unlimited mileage warranty, as well as a separate 8-year/160,000km warranty for the plug-in hybrid powertrain. Additionally, you get free scheduled services for the first 5-years of ownership too.

The 2020 BMW X5 xDrive45e is available with the Balloon Financing Plan via BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia, with monthly installments starting from RM5,028 (based on an 80% loan over a 5-year tenure). The new X5 PHEV will be available for viewing in showrooms beginning this Saturday, the 20th of June.

ED: It’ll be interesting to pit the German newcomer with the steady and unflinching Swede, don’t you think? Let us know in the comments below, or on our Facebook page. Maybe that will get BMW Malaysia’s attention…

6 SST-Free Bargains You Must Snap Up – Peroduas, Toyotas, BMWs, Volvos

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Buy a new car, save the economy. Who could argue with that?

Earlier today, Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin announced that as part of the PENJANA COVID-19 economic stimulus package, new car purchases are set to see between a 50% reduction and 100% reduction of their sales & service tax as a way to stimulate sales in the automotive segment. This announcement came as a welcome move by the automotive sector, who are now hoping that things really can go back to normal for them.

As sales tax has long been part & parcel of any new car, many Malaysians are unaware of just how much SST they pay for on a new car. For reference, all new cars are subject to 10% SST – therefore, the ‘discounts’ on a new car can be easily calculated at 10% for locally-assembled or CKD vehicles, while there’ll be a 5% retail price reduction for fully-imported cars.

To give you an idea of what that looks like, we’ve listed down 6 excellent cars from across the spectrum, beginning with everyone’s favourite Perodua Myvi, all the way up to the segment-leading & benchmark-setting Volvo XC90, as well as a reference in between of what a fully-imported purchase would feel like right about now too.

It’s worth noting of course that as SST is applied only to the nett selling price, the figures that we’re suggesting here are likely a bit hopeful – based on what we saw during the last ‘tax holiday,’ we should expect to see decreases between 3%-5% at the most off retail selling prices. But given the current situation, car companies would be remiss not to put their best deals forward to lure customers back into showrooms and into new cars, no?

PERODUA MYVI 1.5 AV – RM48,681 (RM5409 expected reduction)

The Perodua Myvi is a firm favourite for all Malaysians, with the B-segment hatchback racking up an average of 100,000 annual sales every year since its introduction nearly 13 years ago. With lots of space, punchy performance, and levels of safety & convenience kit that would put most of its competitors to shame, the Perodua Myvi is a tough car to beat, which is why it dominates the sub-RM100k segment almost entirely.

Watch our review of the Perodua Myvi here.

PERODUA ARUZ 1.5 AV – RM70,110 (RM7790 expected reduction)

The Perodua Aruz is another one of the Sg. Choh company’s runaway successes, though while the Myvi is famously known as the surprise hit, the Aruz was far more calculated. Dominating the sub-RM100k SUV space and taking the cake as Malaysia’s most popular SUV, the Aruz provides acres of space & practicality, and offers car-like usability & functionality despite the commanding ride height. And paired with traditional Perodua running costs, it’s no wonder that its Japanese sibling (which is built in the same factory with the same powertrain by the same people, mind) is failing to gain traction…

You can watch our review of the Perodua Aruz here.

TOYOTA COROLLA 1.8G (CBU) – RM132,893 (RM6995 expected reduction)

The Toyota Corolla is actually our only fully-imported example car we’re putting in the list, on the account of its great styling, amazing safety kit, and impressive performance. The Thai-built Corolla (now free of the ‘Altis’ name previous generations carried) is an excellent example of what we can expect to see from the Japanese marque going forwards – more engaging design, a more engaging drive, better technology, and the same tried-and-tested Toyota value.

(We haven’t reviewed the Toyota Corolla yet, so there’s no review to plug here…)

BMW 330i M-Sport (CKD) – RM264,420 (RM29,380 expected reduction)

The de-facto choice in the compact executive saloon space, BMW Group Malaysia was wise to quickly introduce the CKD version of this car when it did. Not only did it offer a massive saving over the fully-imported first batch of cars, but it demonstrated the excellent quality control measures implemented by the local assembly plant, proving that there’s literally nothing to lose.

Notably, the G20 3-Series is now a sharper drive than the F30 it replaces, which means it has returned to form as the driver’s choice in the segment. Not that the majority of its buyers seek it out specifically for that, in all honesty.

(We also haven’t reviewed the G20 BMW 3-Series. Do these car companies not like us?)

Volvo S60 T8 R-Design (CKD) – RM266,299.20 (RM29,588.80 expected reduction)

We threw this in here because it’s an absolute favourite of ours at MalaysianMotoring – with restrained styling, mind-bending performance, unbelievable (yet verified) fuel economy and standard-setting safety, the Volvo S60 is a very difficult car to fault. Couple that with a truly refined ride and the ability to outsprint a Mercedes-AMG C43, and this Swede begins to show its more brutish side.

This car is like Dwayne Johnson in a suit. Ever a gentleman, but still able to knock your jaw out at 20 paces.

(Do we not review enough cars on this website? Thank God we’ve already driven the next one…)

Volvo XC90 T8 Inscription Plus (CKD) – RM368,899.20 (RM40,988.80 expected reduction)

Another favourite in the office, but also a favourite among buyers – in the 7-seater SUV space, the Volvo XC90 is not only the segment leader in terms of safety, performance and standard equipment, but it’s also the most affordable of the bunch, outpricing its nearest competitors by about 5-figures at the minimum. And it’s no Turkish prison either, with sumptuous Nappa leather seats, mesmirising Bowers & Wilkins premium audio, a solid crystal gear selector knob, and the sort of ride comfort that would shame everything short of a Rolls-Royce. The Volvo XC90 may have led Volvo’s transformation into the company we see today in the here-and-now, but it’s showing absolutely no signs of aging, or slowing down.

The Volvo XC90 was #Recharged for the 2020 model year – check out our review here.

So our advice is this – if you find yourself with money to burn, a secure job and secure income, now is the best time to buy a car. Not only will you be saving way more than any seasonal promotion, but you’ll also be directly helping our beloved local automotive industry and the millions of people that it employs directly & indirectly stay afloat.

And boy, don’t we Malaysians just love our cars?

  • The new Mercedes-Benz EQC makes its regional debut in Malaysia, alongside the new Mercedes-Benz S560e Plug-In Hybrid, as well as the Mercedes-Benz C300e Plug-In Hybrid
  • Mr. Michael Jopp, Vice President Sales & Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia, with the refreshed Mercedes-Benz GLC range featuring MercedesMe Connect

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.

UMW Toyota Restarts Manufacturing, Assembly Plant

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UMW Toyota Motor Sdn. Bhd. has announced that its subsidiary, Assembly Services Sdn. Bhd. (ASSB) which is wholly responsible for the assembly & manufacturing of Toyota vehicles in Malaysia, will resume its operations in full compliance with the guidelines & operating procedures as part of the Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO).

They are doing so with the full approval of the Selangor state government, which has implemented a stricter and more comprehensive list of requirements with regards to the resumption of business as compared to the regulations stated by the Ministry of International Trade & Industry, and approved by the Federal Government.

ASSB suspended all operations on March the 18th, as directed by the Federal Government upon the announcement of the Movement Control Order.

“We are grateful to the Selangor State Government for its decision to implement the CMCO with customised details and understand that it is in the best interest of the state and people. With the resumption of operations, we hope to help in boosting the economy, and adding momentum to the automotive industry & business moving forwards.”

Mr. Ravindran K., President, UMW Toyota Motor

Federal & state legislatures demanded the adherence to strict standard operating procedures in order to obtain approval to resume business. These standard procedures include establishing a working distance of 1- or more metres between staff, regular temperature checks of all staff reporting for duty, the provision of hand sanitisers & face masks throughout the facility, as well as the complete sterilisation of critical areas around the facilities, which are to be conducted three times a day. Additionally, work flows & working hours have been adjusted as to ensure the safety & welfare of UMW Toyota & Assembly Services employees.

UMW Toyota Motor & Assembly Services will be resuming operations at full capacity, in adherence with the strict standard operating procedures as set out by both federal & state legislatures. ASSB is reportedly at full compliance, to ensure the safety of its reported 2,000 staff on site.

“Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) is very serious about providing safe & healthy conditions for all employees. As a member of the global Toyota family, ASSB can therefore draw on healthcare advice & best practices from TMC regarding additional measures that can be observed here in Selangor.”

Akio Takeyama-san, Deputy Chairman, UMW Toyota Motor

As always, MalaysianMotoring would like to remind its readers to be safe out there, both on the road and off it. Our success depends on our responsibility to ourselves and each other – our nation depends on it.We thank you for staying home, and staying safe.

#KitaJagaKita

Next-Gen W223 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Spotted – Huge Grille, CLS Rear, Tesla Infotainment Inside

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The next-generation W223 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the next successor of the hallowed Sonderklasse nameplate, has been spotted various times by various titles as it has gone about its R&D and testing phases, but it seems that that might all come to an end. What has been circulating online are photographs of what appear to be a completed, finished product, laid bare for all to see. We’re certain that Mercedes-Benz isn’t happy about this.

What’s abundantly clear is that the W223 will mark a stark departure from the current-generation S-Class (W222 for reference), sporting a new design that from some angles appear to be derived from the new CLA-Class. Up front a pair of slim headlights flank what appears to be the largest grille ever fitted to an S-Class – a point emphasised by the use of only 3-slats and a clear visual de-cluttering around the face to point eyes towards its massive gob.

And down the rear, we’re treated to a rump that looks remarkably like the CLS-Class, leaving behind the vertically-orientated taillights that have adorned S-Classes since the W220 of the 2000s. Atop those sit a full-width chrome strip (yes, we also thought Mercedes reserved that for its coupes), though the number plate recess sits in a more dignified position on the bootlid itself.

Down the bumper, there are actually very few changes over the W222 that we’re all familiar with, with little surface play employed and a pair of very, very fake exhaust tips integrated into the lowest edge.

With this set of photos we’ve been treated to photos of the cabin, where more shocks await: The design in here is very different from what we’re used to, with its design clearly derived from the Vision EQS concept. There is now a Tesla-style portrait touchscreen that’s integrated into the dash, with vertical air vents on either side of a full-width piece of decorative trim. With no COMAND rotary controller in sight there is now more storage space on the centre console, and there is now a new 3-twin steering wheel which looks incredibly delicate & intricate.

Behind that steering wheel sits the very familiar digital instrument cluster, but it is what’s beyond that that’s interesting. Behind the screen appears to be a large hole – we’ve no doubt that that is the housing for a much larger heads-up display module, which will likely project even more information onto the screen and into the driver’s line of sight than ever before. It’s expected that the W223 S-Class will offer augmented-reality features with this new HUD system, which will minimise the need for drivers to ever take their eyes off the road.

At the rear, the twin infotainment touchscreens remain for the use of the rear passengers, but a third screen appears to have sprouted up between the seats. The lack of buttons throughout the cabin is obvious, which suggests greater integration of functions through the touchscreens dotted around the car.

There are very few technical details available surrounding the W223, suggesting that while Mercedes-Benz hasn’t had much luck keeping the lid on the new S-Class in general, they’ve done a good job hiding the specifications sheet. The new-generation Sonderklasse is expected to be available with a range of inline-6 and V8 engines, along with a more advanced plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant that’ll likely offer more than the 50km of all-electric range the current model has.

Additionally, it is expected that the new S-Class will continue to build on the 48V mild-hybrid (MHEV) capabilities by offering an improved Airmatic+ suspension system. And on top of that, Mercedes-Benz has shown its intent for the new S-Class to be the first certified Level 3 autonomous vehicle on sale, a feat that’s looking very likely indeed.

It is also expected that, like the current Lexus LS, the new-generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class will forgo the standard wheelbase variant, and be offered exclusively as a long-wheelbase model with additional space in the rear.

As always, MalaysianMotoring would like to remind its readers to be safe out there, both on the road and off it. Our success depends on our responsibility to ourselves and each other – our nation depends on it.We thank you for staying home, and staying safe.

#KitaJagaKita