Sunday, December 20, 2015

Ziela And Mimik Wedding

Nur Nasuha And Mohd Fazrin Wedding



Thursday, March 3, 2011

2011 Proton Saga FL launched in Malaysia


You have seen the facelifted Proton Saga from our Thai Auto Expo 2010 coverage earlier this month, and now it’s the Malaysian market’s turn to get the car. Unveiled by Proton MD Datuk Syed Zainal moments ago, it is officially called the Saga FL.

From the boss’ speech, and the new features, we know that Proton is trying to get the younger crowd to consider the Saga as their first car, urban middle class folks that would otherwise buy a Myvi.


The Blue Rock colour you see here is one of the two new colors (the other is Cafe Latte, a light brown hue), and is the same colour as the Thai show car. There are now two trim lines – Standard and Executive – down from the previous three. Manual (5-speed) and automatic (4-speed) choices are available for both trims, which mean that there are four possible configurations.

Powered by the same 1,332 cc Campro engine with 94 hp and 120 Nm, the Saga FL gets Proton’s new face, which will be sign of things to come. As detailed before, the new exterior consists of new lamps front and rear, new grille, new bumpers on both ends and new design rims. Standard variants ride on 175/70 R13 wheels while Executive FLs use 185/60 R14 rubber.


Most of the new features that the FL gets over the old car is for the Executive. They are dual airbags, steering audio buttons and USB/AUX ports for the Clarion MP3 stereo. New goodies available on both trims are side mirrors with LED signal lamps, rear power windows, rear LED tail lamps. The rest of the Executive-only equipment includes driver’s seat height adjuster, powered wing mirrors, fog lamps and slim rear spoiler.

The new Proton Saga facelift is now available in four different variants – the Standard M/T and A/T as well as the higher spec Executive M/T and A/T, which is one grade level less than the pre-facelift Saga, which was available in N-Line, B-Line and M-Line. Effectively, this means very basic N-Line with the cheapest price tag and the black bumper is not represented in the new line-up.

All models have the front and rear power windows, MP3 function for the audio player, and the side mirrors with LED turn indicators.

What the Executive model adds over the Standard model are the USB and AUX input, the dual front SRS airbags (Standard model doesn’t have any airbags), steering wheel audio switches, driver seat height adjustment, electric door mirrors, fog lamps, rear spoiler, a multipurpose container and side protector moulding. Wheels are alloys wrapped with 180/60R14 on the Executive, and steel wheels wrapped with 175/70R13 on the Standard.

The engine and gearbox remains the same as the pre-facelift Proton Saga for now, however Proton has indicated that they will be rolling out an update to the Campro engine family sometime next year, and this update could include the new Proton Saga. The update will include improvements to the normally aspirated Campro engines as well as add a new turbocharged variant for models like the Proton Exora.

The Saga is available in Solid White, Tranquility Black, Genetic Silver, and two new flours – Cafe Latte and Blue Rock. Our live galleries after the jump are mostly of the two new colours so you’ll know what they look like.

Of course, the most important part are the new prices. Prices have gone up by about RM1,000 to RM1,300 across the board, which is not too bad a jump considering there’s an extra passenger airbag in the airbag-equipped models. In the price comparison, we’ll compare the Standard with the B-Line and the Executive with the M-Line.


Saga Difference Saga Facelift
1.3 Standard M/T RM36,998 RM1,000 RM37,998
1.3 Standard A/T RM39,998 RM1,000 RM40,998
1.3 Executive M/T RM39,498 RM1,200 RM40,698
1.3 Executive A/T RM41,998 RM1,300 RM43,298

Wednesday, March 2, 2011

2010 Mitsubishi Triton & Challenger

Mitsubishi will bring forward the launch of the medium SUV Challenger and has “pre-launched” its 2010 update of the Triton utility as a result of the government tax incentives that have driven the sales of vehicle, especially those with a commercial application, well ahead of expectations.


The Japanese importer’s CEO, Rob McEniry, today said that the Triton range had sold so strongly as a result of the Federal Government’s tax incentive program that the company was now out of a stock with the MY09 range.

He said that as a result the company had decided to “pre launch” the MY10 update of the Triton, which brings range of changes to the popular two- and four-wheel-drive utilities.

At the same time he revealed that Mitsubishi had decided to bring forward the launch of the Challenger medium SUV, which is based on the Triton underpinnings and drive-train, to the latter part of this year.


Mitsubishi had originally planned to launch the new Challenger, which was previously sold in Australia until 2006, in early 2010.

“We believe the challenger will benefit from the chance to take advantage of the Government’s 50 percent tax deduction scheme so we’ve decided to bring it forward,” Mr McEniry said.

He said the vehicle, which would offer customers a full 4WD capability in a medium sized SUV, would be in dealers by early November to allow customers the opportunity of ordering it before the tax scheme ran out at the end of December.

Mr McEniry said the new Challenger would be built in Thailand.

Before that Mitsubishi will launch its MY10 revisions of the Triton utility range with the aim of overcoming supply shortages that developed as a result of the government’s tax incentive scheme.


“Triton is one of the mainstays of the Mitsubishi range and has always proved popular as a practical and rugged work vehicle that can take all the hard knocks thrown at it,” McEniry said.

“And, more recently, its recognised four-wheel drive capabilities and car-like comforts have seen it used for recreational activities as well.

“The result is that this car is in great demand – so much so that June sales were the highest monthly sales ever recorded for Triton in this country, and now our stocks are running low.


“In light of this, we have decided to release details of the new 2010 Triton early, to let prospective buyers know just what a great vehicle we have in store for them.”

The big news for the 2010 Triton range is the availability of a new, high-powered (HP) turbocharged diesel engine on four-wheel drive variants, which delivers the highest output and performance in this segment.

This 2.5-litre powerplant generates 131kW of power at 4000rpm and 400Nm of torque at 2000rpm, up 11 per cent and 17 per cent respectively over the previous 3.2-litre engine.

It also delivers combined fuel economy figures of 8.3 litres per 100 kilometres, a nine per cent improvement, when mated to a manual transmission.

Automatic variants generate a similar amount of power, 350Nm of torque, and achieve a combined fuel economy figure of 9.3L/100km.

The two-wheel drive 2010 Triton range retains the popular 2.4-litre petrol engine and 2.5-litre diesel engine from the current line-up.

Two automatic transmissions are available on HP diesel variants, the four-speed transmission carried over from the previous model sees smooth shifting as an option on all but the top-of-the-range Triton.

The GLX-R model receives an electronically controlled five-speed automatic with sports-mode, which provides operational improvement, performance improvement, and CO2 emission reduction.

Mitsubishi says many of its Triton vehicles also do duty as the primary family transport and for that reason there has been a safety increase for the MY10 version.

All 2010 Tritons have standard driver and front passenger SRS airbags, front and rear door impact bars, ABS brakes with electronic Brakeforce distribution, front seatbelt pretensioners and child restraint points.

Additional safety features available with the 2010 Mitsubishi Triton line-up confirm its position as the class-leader in this segment.

Active stability and traction control is available on all HP diesel models and passenger side and curtain airbags are available on all HP diesel dual-cab models, and standard on GLX-R variants, cementing the Triton’s four-star ANCAP safety rating.

In response to consumer feedback, Mitsubishi has developed a new, long-bed tray for dual-cab Tritons that offers a total tray length of 1505mm, and total tray height of 460mm, an improvement in both directions of 14 per cent.

Triton, exterior features have been upgraded with new front bumpers, grille and side-turning lamps.

Inside, new seat fabric and seat pads, sports seats, a new instrument cluster, floor console treatments, and a new sound system have all been added.

Pricing for the new 2010 Triton range is yet to be revealed; however, Mitsubishi has indicated that there will be no shocks in store f

Monday, January 11, 2010

New petrol subsidy system to factor in engine displacement size?

New details have been released on the new petrol pricing system that’s set to be implemented on the 1st of May this year. Apparently the different pricing systems will be applied based on “engine capacity” and “socio-economic” factors, though there was no specific numbers unveiled on what the thresholds are.

While we have no details yet as of now on what the threshold of an increase petrol price will be but past government measures might give us a hint. When the price of petrol hit the roof back in 2008, the government announced that a RM625 one-time petrol subsidy would be given to cars with engine displacements of up to 2,000cc, trucks with engine displacements of up to 2,500cc and bikes of engine sizes up to 250cc. We might see these numbers used again for the new subsidy system.

Cars with large engines are already being ‘punished’ with exponentially higher road tax charges but now owners of such cars will have to deal with the fuel prices as well.

Make no mistake about it – with the trend of how things are going, the middle class are just going to be squeezed tighter and tighter. We’ve got to deal with pricier petrol, GST, and many others. You had better plan your finances and monthly budgets for the worse this year, as I don’t think we are going to get any indication of what we are going to face until the last minute. The same report unveiled that details would only be announced on the very day of implementation.

Thursday, January 7, 2010

Malaysia Autos Report Q1 2010 - new report released

Malaysia´s automotive industry is showing signs of improvement, albeit relatively speaking, and this has prompted a revision of the report’s sales forecast. New vehicle sales for H109 as a whole totalled 251,092 units, down from 277,973 in the same period of 2008; a drop of 9.7% y-o-y. Against this backdrop, the Malaysian Automobile Association revised its expectations for 2009 as
a whole to a drop in new vehicle sales of 8.8% y-o-y, with an economic recovery expected to kick in during Q409. Sales for September were down 9.2% y-o-y, taking sales for the nine-month period ending September down 7.5% y-o-y to 397,619 vehicles. This has prompted BMI to raise its forecast for 2009, as sales for October were expected to be on a par, with a possible uptick to end the year.

The future of the industry has also come under the spotlight as the government released its new National Automotive Policy in October. The plan will focus on improving the sustainability of the domestic industry, while also making more provisions for the inclusion of international brands. Incentives will be provided to develop the national parts segment, with a view to phasing out component imports, while the system of obtaining Approved Permits (APs) for imports will be axed by 2015. The NAP includes 18 new policies and measures in total, which will be implemented from January 1 2010. One of the major points is an attempt to streamline the domestic industry to two national high-volume carmakers, in order to cut back on overcapacity and rationalise product ranges.

Greater liberalisation of the industry could go some way to improving Malaysia´s position in BMI´s Business Environment Ratings, where it currently lies in ninth position with a rating of 52.6 out of a possible 100. While the country is a leading light of the ASEAN trade bloc, which has made it a popular choice for regional production activities in the auto sector, there is the potential for greater things if a proposed free trade agreement with the US is finalised. In terms of the market itself, production growth potential receives an average rating, while potential sales growth is low in comparison with its peers.

Until the NAP comes into force, Perodua and Proton continue to dominate the market with a combined market share of 61%. Proton still lags behind its domestic rival and will be looking to benefit from provisions in the plan for encouraging co-operation with international brands. Proton has been looking for a strategic partner for a number of years and it was reported in November that Volkswagen may look to forge closer ties with the national firm. Toyota is still the country´s largest foreign brand, but some way behind Proton with 15.3% of the market, compared with Proton´s 28.9%.

Sunday, January 3, 2010

daihatsu storia X4 Versus Perodua Kelisa

The Storia X4 was developed by Daihatsu as a base model for domestic use in motorsport events. Accordingly, luxury items such as air-conditioning, electric windows etc were removed to keep the weight of the car to minimal levels (although power steering was a cost option). Production began on April 10th 1998, and ceased on 31st January 2004. In this time, only 829 cars were produced. Daihatsu did not produce the cars through normal production for sale, and all cars were special order only, and were only available in white.

The base car started with a derivative of the 660cc JB-DET engine, and is a 4-cylinder Twin-Cam DOHC DVVT Fuel-Injected Intercooled Turbo-Charged engine. These engines were shipped to DRS (Daihatsu Racing Services - Think of them as TRD), where the cylinder capacity was enlarged to 713cc, and forged internals added. The 713cc engine size was specifically engineered to enable the car to race in the 1.0 litre class, whereby turbo-charged cars engine size are given a mandatory multiple of x1.4 (to ensure a level playing field against n/a cars). Given the cylinder size of 713cc, a x1.4 multiple means that the cars effective engine size is 998.2cc, thereby being as close to the 1.0 litre limit as possible.

The 713cc engine runs an IHI RHF4B VF36 Ball Bearing Turbo with a Titanium Shaft and Turbine Wheel. Intercooler water spray is also fitted to help lower intake temperature. Rumour is that the engines were slightly de-tuned for sale by Daihatsu, and left the showroom running 18psi (1.24bar), producing 120ps. However, an adjustable actuator was fitted as standard, allowing the boost to be increased to around 24psi with no additional modifications required. A performance upgrade was also available directly from Daihatsu when ordering, which apparently produced 200ps!

The car has a 5-speed close ratio gearbox, clutch-type front & rear differential and permanent four-wheel drive. The overall weight of the car is approximately 820kgs, so the car has an effective power-to-weight ratio of 146ps per tonne.

Unsurprisingly, when the car was introduced in the Kei-Jidousha class (Japanese Mini Cars), it decimated the competition thanks to it's light weight, power and handling. The car also enjoyed success in the all Japan Rally Championship and the all Japan Dirt Trial Championship.

Consider to put this storia engine under your Kelisa's hood?

Friday, January 1, 2010

specifications about perodua viva VIVA SPECIFICATIONS

Overview » Price » Specifications »
ViVA ELITE
Dimensions & Weight Elite MT Elite AT Elite EZi
Overall length mm 3575
Overall width mm 1475
Overall height mm 1530
Interior length mm 1845
Interior width mm 1300
Interior height mm 1250
Wheelbase mm 2390
Couple distance mm 840
Front seat distance to ground mm 580
Track Front mm 1300
Rear mm 1290
Kerb weight kg 795 805 810
Minimum ground clearance Non-laden mm 145
Seat capacity persons 5
Min. turning radius (tyre) m 4.4
More specification details
Engine Elite MT Elite AT Elite EZi
Engine type EJ-VE
Valve mechanism DOHC, 12V (4 valves per cylinder) with DVVT
Total displacement cc 989
Bore x stroke mm 72 x 81
No. of cylinders 3
Compression ratio 10
Max. output (DIN) kW/rpm 45/6000
Max. torque (DIN) Nm/rpm 90/3600
Fuel system EFI
Fuel tank capacity l 36.0
Powertrain Elite MT Elite AT Elite EZi
Transmission Type Manual - MT 5MT -
Auto - AT 4AT
Transmission gear ratio 1st 3.417 2.731
2nd 1.947 1.526
3rd 1.25 1
4th 0.865 0.696
5th 0.707 -
Reverse 3.143 2.29
Final gear ratio 3.938 4.439
Chassis Elite MT Elite AT Elite EZi
Steering type Rack and pinion
Main brake Front Disc
Rear Drums
Parking brake Mechanically operating on rear wheels
Suspension Front MacPherson strut
Rear Torsion beam with coil spring
Tyres 165/55R14
Spare tyre Temp. tyre - T105/90D12
Exterior Elite MT Elite AT Elite EZi
Side turn signals Clear Lenses Integrated with mirror
Disc wheels Alloy 14"
Wheel caps Center caps for alloy rims
Front & rear bumper Body Colour (new design)
Rear spoiler Without With
Front fog lamps With
Rear reflectors With
Rear window wiper With
Door outside handles Chrome
Door visors (air press) With
Windshield Glass Green (Laminated with UV protection)
Side skirting With
Grade Mark Without With
Interior Elite MT Elite AT Elite EZi
Door trim With Fabric
Coin slot With
Seat back pockets With (driver & passenger)
Glove box With
Cup holders With (2 front & 1 rear)
Seat cover material High grade
Centre cluster Painted
Steering wheel (3-spoke urethane) Standard with silver ornament
Meter combination High grade (with chrome ring)
Comfort Elite MT Elite AT Elite EZi
Audio 1 DIN radio-CD player with MP3 & WMA
Speakers With (front & rear)
Wireless door lock With (wireless electro-magnetic)
Power windows With (front / rear)
Side mirrors (Body coloured) Electrical Electrical & retractable
Reverse sensor With
Assist grip Front (passenger) / rear (left & right)
Light remind warning With
Under seat tray With
Package tray With carpet
Seat height adjuster With
Power steering With
Stabilizer With (front only)
Sun visor With (vanity mirror & ticket holder on driver`s side)
Safety & Security Elite MT Elite AT Elite EZi
Dual SRS airbags Without With
ABS with EBD & BA Without With
Alarm & central locking With
Child safety lock With
Accessories Elite MT Elite AT Elite EZi
Carpet mat With Elite emblem
Luggage net With
Tool kit bag With
Safety triangle With
Registration plate holder With
Specifications are subject to change without prior notice.


ViVA
Dimensions & Weight 660 BX 660 EX 850 1.0
Overall length mm 3575
Overall width mm 1475
Overall height mm 1530
Interior length mm 1845
Interior width mm 1300
Interior height mm 1250
Wheelbase mm 2390
Couple distance mm 840
Front seat distance to ground mm 580
Track Front mm 1320
Rear mm 1310
Kerb weight kg 755 755 765 780
Minimum ground clearance Non-laden mm 145
Seat capacity persons 5
Min. turning radius (tyre) m 4.2
More specification details
Engine 660 BX 660 EX 850 1.0
Engine type EF-VE ED-VE EJ-VE
Valve mechanism DOHC, 12V (4 valves per cylinder) with DVVT
Total displacement cc 659 847 989
Bore x stroke mm 68 x 60.5 66.6 x 81 72 x 81
No. of cylinders 3
Compression ratio 10
Max. output (DIN) kW/rpm 35/7200 39/6000 45/6000
Max. torque (DIN) Nm/rpm 58/4400 76/4000 90/3600
Fuel system EFI
Fuel tank capacity l 36.0
Powertrain 660 BX 660 EX 850 1.0
Transmission Type Manual - MT 5MT 5MT 5MT -
Auto - AT 4AT
Transmission gear ratio 1st 3.417 3.417 2.731
2nd 1.947 1.947 1.526
3rd 1.25 1.25 1
4th 0.917 0.917 0.696
5th 0.75 0.75 -
Reverse 3.143 3.143 2.29
Final gear ratio 4.933 4.643 4.439
Chassis 660 BX 660 EX 850 1.0
Steering type Rack and pinion
Main brake Front Disc
Rear Drums
Parking brake Mechanically operating on rear wheels
Suspension Front MacPherson strut
Rear Torsion beam with coil spring
Tyres 155/70R12
Spare tyre Temp. tyre - T105/90D12
Exterior 660 BX 660 EX 850 1.0
Side turn signals Amber Lenses
Disc wheels Steel 12"
Wheel cap Centre caps Full wheel caps
Front & rear bumpers Material coloured Body coloured
Rear window wiper With
Door outside handles Material coloured Body coloured
Windshield Glass Green (laminated)
Interior 660 BX 660 EX 850 1.0
Door trim Without fabric
Coin slot With
Glove box With
Cup holders With (2 front & 1 rear)
Seat cover material Standard grade Medium grade
Centre cluster Standard
Steering wheel 3-spoke urethane (standard)
Meter combination Standard
Comfort 660 BX 660 EX 850 1.0
Audio Without 1 DIN radio CD Player
Speaker Without With (front) With (front / rear)
Wireless door lock Without With (wireless electro-magnetic)
Power windows Without With (front / rear)
Side mirrors Manual (material coloured) Manual (body coloured)
Reverse sensor Without With
Assist grip Front (passenger) Front (passenger) / rear (left&right)
Package tray Without carpet
Sun visor With
Safety & Security 660 BX 660 EX 850 1.0
Alarm & central locking Without With
Child safety lock With
Accessories 660 BX 660 EX 850 1.0
Carpet mat With
Tool kit bag With
Safety triangle With
Registration plate holder With
Specifications are subject to change without prior notice.

Saturday, December 26, 2009

Perodua Viva Info

Perodua Viva actually has 3 varniants of engine but for better satifaction, I want to explain about the 1000cc engine. This Viva using the 1.0L 3 cylinders engine assisting with the DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder with DVVT (Dynamic Variable Valve Timing). This engine can produce the maximum power of 45 kW @ 6000 RPM and maximum torque of 90 N.m @ 3600 RPM. The premium version offer the 5-speed manual transmission and the 4-speed automatic transmission while the standard version only offer the 4-speed automatic transmission. Perodua Viva has 36 litres fuel tank capacity while this fuel moved to the engine by the Electronic Fuel Injector.

The data about the top speed and the acceleration is difficult to find because this is a campact family car, so the road test is not so important. But a source had estimated the performance on the road for this car. The top speed estimated for this Perodua Viva is around 160 kph (99 mph) while this car had said to accelerate from static to 100 kph in 12.8 seconds.

For the car like this, the comfort of the passenger has higher priority than the ride handling. So, the McPherson strut suspension has been used for the front suspension while for the rear suspension, the torsion beam with coil spring has been used. For safety, the dual SRS airbag has been installed but it is only available in premium variants. Also, the addition system in premium version is the installation of the ABS and EBD system.

Thursday, December 24, 2009

Dodge Viper: future sale possible



It an intriguing move in the car industry, Fiat has taken on the Dodge Viper supercar brand by taking on the franchise as part of the Fiat-Chrysler deal. The Viper brand has been in dire straits, and may not be safe under Fiat management either.

Plans were to sell Viper, but at ten million dollars, Chrysler couldn’t find a buyer. Fiat may find the task just as hard, with Devon Motor Works apparently being the only bidder at a mere 5.5 million dollars.

The Viper has been an icon in American sports cars since it first appeared in 1992, but may risk going by the wayside as Fiat protects its own Maserati and Ferrari supercar brands. While Fiat may recognise the differences between its luxury Italian sportscars and a US V10 supercar, things are tense for lovers of the Viper brand.

Saturday, December 12, 2009

Proton and LG Developing Electric Cars

This piece of news actually appeared on the MITI website in August this year – it reveals that Proton is currently working with South Korean company LG on Proton electric cars (not sure where Detroit Electric have gone). We’re talking about pure electric vehicles with zero emissions, driven by an electric motor powered by a battery.

According to the report, the electric drive module can be recharged from a regular household electricity socket and can go about 200km on a single charge. The report also speculates that with advancement in battery technology, future ranges can be expected in around the 600km range.

Proton has worked with LG on various projects in the past. LG CNS has worked on various areas in the Proton Savvy, Proton Saga and Proton Exora project in the past. I think we can safely say that Proton-LG projects generally produce results that can make their way into production so we can probably see the fruits of this project on our roads sometime in the future.

We currently don’t have the infrastructure to support medium to long distance electric car journeys in our country. With ranges of 200km, you can only travel within the city and back to your home at night to recharge your vehicle. For longer distances such as inter-state journeys where you have to spend your next night in a place that is not your home, it may be hard to find somewhere to charge your car.

Sure, you can plug your car into any wall socket but then there is also a question of finding somewhere to park which has a wall socket, and how do we work out how much to pay and to whom to pay for the electricity used?

So for now I think we might see hybrid Protons first, before electric Protons are sold in this country. Proton is currently working with Lotus for hybrid car development, and a few units of hybrid Proton Exora MPVs are currently on test in the UK and are due to be shipped to Malaysia for further testing within the next quarter. As for Proton electric cars, we’ve seen an electric Saga concept before.

It is good that Proton is expediting electric car development now instead of waiting for our local infrastructure to be developed. After all, EVs are already in use in countries like the UK and Proton must think like a global manufacturer which has the world as its market, not just Malaysia. And it looks like it is doing just that, with the development of these electric vehicles.

Related Posts:
Proton previews the Proton Saga EV concept
Detroit Electric to sell electric Persona and GEN2
Detroit Electric FAQ: a backgrounder on electric cars
Detroit Electric to sign RM1.2 billion agreement with Proton

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Viva The Alza

IT sells some 7,000 units every month, is relatively cheap and has ample room for five passengers. It has a preppy engine and looks smart. It’s not expensive to maintain and retains its resale value. It’s not surprising therefore that the Perodua Myvi is the best-selling car in the country.

But what the Myvi lacks is decent rear boot space – which is particularly felt during the balik kampung ride during the festive season, or as the kids in the family grow bigger and bigger.

The Perodua Alza can take up to seven passengers without too much of a squeeze.

Would making a bigger Myvi be a step in the right direction?

Absolutely, say the people at Perodua, who feel they have a found winning formula in the Alza, a multi-purpose vehicle launched on Monday.

Looking much like a stretched, raised and pumped up Myvi, the new MPV has three rows of seats and can seat seven – its key attraction.

Alza, which is Spanish for “rise”, is also synonymous with “amplify, enhance and heighten”. The vehicle is slightly higher than the Myvi and has been stretched by 455mm, Its wheelbase is also longer by 310mm; in fact, it is close to the Toyota Camry – a good indication of its interior space.

Perodua managing director Datuk Syed Hafiz Syed Abu Bakar says the Alza, with its flexible seating configuration, can be turned into a car with a big boot when you don’t need the extra back seats for seven passengers.

“It’s like Superman. It becomes that when you need it,” Syed Hafiz said at a media preview of the MPV in Putrajaya earlier this month.

The introduction of the Alza is part of the second national carmaker’s dynamic move to offer vehicles that meet current motoring trends.

With the average size of most Malaysian families shrinking to four from six, Syed Hafiz says the majority of its potential customers don’t actually need a huge MPV.

“It just has to be a vehicle with the right amount of interior space. A size that is too large will also make the MPV clumsy and difficult to drive on narrow roads,” he says.

The Alza shares its underpinnings with the Daihatsu Boon Luminas and Toyota Passo Sette seven-seaters. Under the bonnet is a twin camshaft with dynamic variable valve timing (DVVT) 1.5-litre engine code named 3SZ-VE, similar to the type in the Toyota Avanza and Perodua Nautica.

The nifty utility box behind the steering wheel for storing
small items.

Tuned for fuel economy, the Azla’s power is rated at 104bhp at 6,000rpm or five horses short of the Avanza and Nautica’s 109bhp. However, its maximum torque of 136Nm is the same as that of theirs.

“As the Alza is not too heavy at 1.1 tonne, its power-to-weight ratio with a 1.5-litre engine is pretty good,” says Syed Hafiz.

Transmission options are the four-speed automatic and five-speed manual while trim levels are the Standard and Premium. Front and rear brake set-ups are discs and drums, respectively, on both grades.

Front suspension is the MacPherson type while the rear uses the torsion beam with stabiliser bar.

Inside, the Alza comes in grey and light grey, with a centrally located instrument cluster that features a trip computer with readouts of average fuel consumption and how far you can go before the tank empties.

The temperature gauge is missing but the fuel gauge, speedometer and tachometer are still there.

With its higher roofline, the Alza gets more headroom for an airier feel.

The gearshift for the automatic is console-mounted, while that for the manual is located on the floor between the driver and front passenger. This arrangement allows the automatic variant to come with bench-type front seats with a 60:40 split, a feature rarely found in locally available MPVs.

In essence, the front passenger can slide over to the driver’s seat without having to get out of the MPV – useful when taking over the wheel after dropping someone off.

In our opinion, the third row seats are more suitable for children although adults can squeeze in there.

Sleek, streamlined and downright trendy!

The second row seats are fitted on rails and can slide forward by 150mm to provide more legroom for third row passengers.

What’s more, the three rows of seats can be folded for a flat configuration.

Cup and bottle holders are scattered around the MPV, on the door pockets and armrests.

Although not equipped with air-conditioner vents for the second and third row seats, Perodua claims that the Alza has a more powerful cooling coil and blower fan than the Myvi.

“We have conducted tests and can say that third-row passengers will have enough cool air, even on hot days,” says Perodua Sales Sdn Bhd operation director Ahmad Suhaimi Mohd Anuar.

In addition, the Alza gets all-round ultraviolet protected glass that cuts down UV rays by 91%.

At the media preview, we get to try out both automatic and manual variants at Putrajaya. With four persons on board, performance on an uphill slope is still adequate but one has to remember that this is an MPV, and the engine needs to be revved a bit more.

Once speed has built up, however, little effort is needed to keep the vehicle on the move. The five-speed manual gives us a gutsier performance since the better spaced gear ratios allow for better use of the engine powerband.

The clutch pedal is not heavy and we reckon it won’t tire out our left foot when inching through a traffic jam.

According to Perodua, the Alza with automatic transmission promises a low fuel consumption of 12.7km per litre of petrol or roughly 14 sen per km on RON95 fuel. The manual variant is even more frugal – 15.5km per litre of fuel.

Available features across the Standard and Premium grades are headlights with projector elements, grille with chrome garnishing, LED tail lights and 185/55/R15 tyres.

The Premium variant has additional features like dual front air bags, anti-lock braking system with electronic brake force distribution and brake assist, fog lights, tail spoiler, audio system with Bluetooth/USB support and leather steering wheel with audio controls.

The trunk comes with a luggage lamp, an item that is sorely lacking in Myvis.

Available colours are solid Ivory White and metallic Medallion Grey, Glittering Silver, Ebony Black and Pearl White. The Premium variant gets the additional metallic Classy Purple.

Prices on the road start at RM56,000 for the Standard manual to RM64,000 for the Premium automatic.

The Advanced variant – delivery of which starts in March – will cost RM6,000 over the Premium version and will feature additional goodies such as body kits, leather seats, tinted windows, a satellite navigation system and reverse camera.a

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

KUALA LUMPUR: Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Sdn Bhd (Perodua) is confident its newly launched Perodua Alza will be the top-selling multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) in 2010.

Managing director Datuk Syed Abdull Hafiz Syed Abu Bakar said Perodua was targeting to sell between 3,500 and 4,000 units of the model per month, adding that it had already received 3,500 bookings for the Alza since Nov 13.


Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin viewing the Perodua MPV Alza by accompanied by Perodua chairman Tan Sri Asmat Kamaludin(left), MD Datuk Syed Hafiz(right) and PMSB MD Osamu Oaki((2nd right) during the official launch of the MPV at the KL Convention Centre

“Based on our target of 4,000 units a month, it should be the highest (selling MPV),” he told a press conference before the launch of Alza yesterday.

Hafiz said he expected the local MPV segment to grow to 30% of total industry volume in 2010 compared with 10%–11% currently.

He said the Alza was targeted at young families and urban singles, adding that the bulk of the pre-launch orders were for the automatic variants.

The Alza is available in standard, premium and advanced variants. All variants are available in both manual and automatic transmissions.

With a starting price of RM56,000, the Alza (which means “to rise” in Spanish) is the cheapest MPV in the market. The vehicle maker will in March launch the advanced variants, priced at between RM67,000 and RM70,000.

Asked about the potential impact of Proton Holdings Bhd’s newly launched Exora Basic variant, which has a starting price of RM57,548, Hafiz said: “I don’t think it would affect us significantly.”

“We did a survey and found that 30% of the respondents would purchase an MPV if it was affordable,” Hafiz said.

As of October 2009, Perodua had sold 138,000 vehicles compared with 142,000 units a year earlier. It currently commands a 31.1% market share of TIV.

Hafiz said the Alza would boost its market share to 31.5% of an estimated TIV of 520,000 units by the year-end. Perodua expected its market share to reach 33.3% next year when the TIV was projected to hit 530,000, he added.

Currently, Myvi and Viva account for 55% and 41% respectively of Perodua’s sales. Hafiz said the vehicle maker was on track to achieving RM7bil sales this year.

For 2010, Hafiz said the Alza would contribute 28% to total sales, with Myvi and Viva contributing 40% and 32% respectively.

Sunday, November 8, 2009

Cherry QQ and Viva



The Chery QQ (codename S11) is a city car produced by the Chinese manufacturer Chery Automobile since 2003. In 2006, the car was renamed the Chery QQ3 in China, when Chery launched their new supermini, the Chery QQ6.


Engine

The QQ is available with the following two gasoline-powered engines (both EURO III compliant):
0.8 L SQR372 I3 DOHC 12v — 38 kW (51 hp) at 6000 rpm, 70 N·m (52 lb·ft) at 3500 rpm
1.1 L SQR472F I4 DOHC 16v — 50 kW (67 hp) at 6000 rpm, 90 N·m (66 lb·ft) at 3500 rpm

Copyright controversy

The QQ became the center of an industrial copyright and intellectual rights controversy, as General Motors claimed the car was a copy to the Daewoo Matiz (which is marketed outside South Korea as the Chevrolet Spark). GM executives demonstrated the extent of the design duplication, noting for example that the doors of the QQ and those of the Spark are interchangeable without modification.
GM China Group indicated the two vehicles "shared remarkably identical body structure, exterior design, interior design and key components. MotorAuthority.com and Car and Driver called the QQ a "carbon copy", while the International Herald Tribune, in a 2005 article, referred to it as a clone.
Looking at this controversy on a global stage, the Detroit News reported that "the dispute reflects the confusion, risks and ambitions in China's new auto industry, where global carmakers are battling pugnacious upstarts for a piece of what may become the world's largest auto market.

Safety

Though the Chery QQ and the Chevrolet Spark are similar cars, their safety ratings differ from each other. A Euro NCAP front offset crash test showed that the driver's injuries in the QQ are worse than those sustained in the Spark. Upon impact, the QQ driver will most likely suffer severe (possibly fatal) trauma in the head, neck and chest areas, while the Spark driver will at most receive a moderate head injury.

Global markets

Iran
In Iran, the Daewoo Matiz had been assembled by local company called Kerman Khodro since the year 2000 in a joint venture with Daewoo. However, upon being acquired by GM following its 2001 bankruptcy, Daewoo stopped supplying CKD kits to Iran due to a ban imposed by GM. As a result, Kerman Khodro licensed the Chery QQ as a replacement and put it into production at their subsidiary MVM.

Singapore
The QQ is sold in Singapore and is one of the cheapest cars in the city state.

South Africa
Four QQ3 models are available in South Africa since May 2008 and was the cheapest car when launched.

Thailand
QQ cars are available in Thailand since 2009. This car is not the cheapest car in the country due to high tariffs (not built in Thailand or an ASEAN country, but import from China). Its non-Japanese competitors are Naza Forza, Proton Savvy and Kia Picanto.

Vietnam
The QQ is the cheapest car in Vietnam.

In Malaysia, Cherry QQ also available.
would you buy this cutie or perodua viva? Your choice..

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Perodua MPV expected to bring big returns

Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Sdn Bhd (Perodua) has spent close to RM300 million to develop its first multi-purpose vehicle (MPV), which it will launch this month.

However, the country's largest car company in terms of sales appears poised to reap much more than its investment.

Motoring writers given a sneak preview of the MPV last week were bullish about its prospects.

The writers heaped praise on the 1.5-litre vehicle which Perodua prefers to call "a car that can be an MPV when you want it".

Perodua managing director Datuk Syed Abdull Hafiz Syed Abu Bakar said it spent RM280 million to develop the MPV. More than half went towards the assembly of its 1.5-litre engine.
"The overall investment is almost similar to that of the Myvi," Syed Hafiz told Business Times.

A senior Perodua plant executive said that some RM150 million was spent on the assembly of the MPV engine at its manufacturing facility in Sungai Choh, Selangor.

The engine factory, operated under Perodua Engine Manufacturing Sdn Bhd, manufactures key parts such as cylinder head and crankshaft for final assembly of the engine there.

Perodua has said it expects to sell at least 3,500 units of the MPV a month. Based on its design, features and price (RM56,000 to RM65,000 for three variants), a minimum monthly volume of 4,000 units is possible.

Saturday, October 31, 2009

MYVI VS VIVA Perodua Myvi and Perodua Viva




Many of you would have watched the new advertisement by Perodua several days ago. Perodua is releasing a new version to replace their older models of Kelisa and Kancil. Rumor has it that the new Perodua D18B would be named Perodua Viva. How big is it? how fast it would go? which design it would take? how much will it cost? how many kilometers per liter? and so on..

The questions that emerges regarding Perodua Viva would be infinite.

Perodua Viva's Pros againts Perodua Myvi
1. Interior lenght would be slightly longer
2. Fuel consumption is better (17.4km/l)
3. Cheaper (of course). (*rumor* 1.0HG is RM38k)
4. Bigger brake lights (guess would be something like Kenari)

Perodua Viva's Cons againts Perodua Myvi
1. Interior width is slightly less wide
2. 660cc and 850cc version might be underpower
3. Design-wise, less attractive (but beauty is in the eyes of the beholder)
4. Possibility of cost reduction parts?

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Perodua introduces Myvi Exclusive Edition-Review

Myvi enthusiasts will now have another variant to choose from - the 1.3 Myvi Exclusive Edition; a limited edition car built for those who demand both style and luxury, minus the premium price associated with executive cars.

The enhance variant boasts refined looks to its interior and exterior, Perodua will only produce and sell 5,000 Myvi Exclusive Edition beginning today.

“I wish to thank all Malaysians for making the Myvi the best selling model for nearly five years and as an added bonus to Myvi enthusiasts, we present to you this limited Myvi Exclusive Edition for those who are looking for style and exclusivity,” Perodua managing director Datuk Syed Abdull Hafiz Syed Abu Bakar said.

The Myvi Exclusive Edition comes with 14-inch alloy rims, side skirting and chrome door handles. Chrome inner handles combined with leather clad seats, door trims and steering wheel give the Exclusive Edition an executive touch.

The built-in 2-Din Audio System with CD Player, MP3/WMA, Universal Serial Bus (USB) is also available to keep the driver entertained. There is also a Bluetooth feature for those looking for a hands-free alternative while driving.

Available in automatic transmission, the Myvi Exclusive Edition comes in three colour options – Ebony Black, Ivory White and Medallion Grey. It is priced at RM51,000 (solid colour) and RM51,500 (metallic) a unit.

The Myvi is Malaysia’s top selling model and over 354,000 units have been sold since May 2005. Perodua recorded the highest ever sale of Myvi in a single month with 9,370 units in July 2009.

The Myvi was ranked highest for its initial quality in terms of new-vehicle ownership, in the compact car segment, for three consecutive years, according to the J.D. Power Asia Pacific 2009 Malaysia Initial Quality Study (IQS).

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Malaysian cars better built this year: JD Power

The numbers speak for themselves - according to the results of J.D. Power's Asia Pacific 2009 Malaysia Initial Quality Study (IQS), the overall new-vehicle initial quality in Malaysia has markedly improved from 2008.

The study, now in its seventh year, examines new-vehicle quality during the first two to six months of ownership.

The study measures more than 200 problem symptoms covering eight vehicle components: vehicle exterior; driving experience; features/controls/displays; audio/entertainment/navigation; seats; HVAC; vehicle interior; and engine/transmission.

All problems are summarised as the number of problems reported per 100 vehicles (PP100), and lower scores indicate a lower rate of problem incidences and higher performance. The study was based on responses from 2,874 new-vehicle owners who purchased their vehicle between Sept 2008 and May 2009, with 52 passenger car, pickup and utility vehicle models from across 15 brands evaluated.

The Malaysian average was 136 in 2009, improving by 22 from 2008, and all eight component areas showed improvement levels. Vehicle exterior issues and problems related to the driving experience represent nearly 50% of total reported problems.

In terms of specific models by segment, the Perodua Myvi ranks highest in the compact car segment for a third consecutive year with 127 PP100, followed by the Proton Savvy (154) and the Perodua Viva (186).

Meanwhile, the new Honda City ranks highest in the entry mid-size car segment, with 76 PP100. Second in the category is the Toyota Vios (107), with the Proton Saga (158) placed third.

In the mid-size car segment, the Toyota Corolla Altis takes the honours with 80 PP100, followed by the Honda Civic (103) and the Nissan Sylphy (109).

As for the MPV/van segment, Toyota's Innova takes the top spot for a second consecutive year, with a score of 85 PP100, with the Nissan Grand Livina (89) and the Toyota Avanza (100) making up the top trio.

In the pickup segment, the Isuzu D-max ranks highest with a 66 PP100 rating, well ahead of the Toyota Hilux (94) and the Mitsubishi Triton (101).

Monday, October 26, 2009

Myvi and Viva to fuel MBM Resources growth

KUALA LUMPUR: MBM Resources Bhd expects a better performance this year on strong demand for the newly-launched Perodua Viva.

Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Sdn Bhd's (Perodua) Myvi and Viva would be MBM's growth driver this year, managing director Looi Kok Loon said.

The new Viva attracting public attention
The optimism was based on sustained demand anticipated for Myvi and the current overwhelming response for Viva, which had attracted some 7,000 orders in less than a month of its launch.

“The group profit’s profile has 65% exposure to Perodua’s operations, including via the automotive manufacturing which supplies parts to Perodua,” he said after the company AGM yesterday.

MBM has a 23.5% stake in the second national carmaker, which sold 11% more cars last year than in 2005 despite a contracted total industry volume.

For the financial year ended Dec 31, 2006, MBM achieved RM121.9mil in pre-tax profit on RM1.13bil revenue.

On MBM's 86%-owned subsidiary Federal Auto Holdings Bhd, Looi said he expected the forthcoming launch of the Volvo S80 premium sedan to have a strong impact on the local luxury car market.

“This year, with the much-needed new model, we will be able to better position ourselves in the luxury segment.

“Volvo cars, which used to enjoy up to 20% share of the luxury car market, currently has below 10% share,” he said, adding that sales of Volvo cars had improved since the first quarter of this year.

MBM’s 71.5%-owned subsidiary Daihatsu (M) Sdn Bhd planned to introduce two new models this year. The Daihatsu light trucks dealer currently commanded 40% market share in this segment, he said.

Looi said the current exchange rate environment - the stronger ringgit against the yen and greenback - was favourable to the group. He said: “It helps us push up our margin amid the competitive market.”

On the outlook for car sales, Looi said if the market improved in next nine months, the gain would only be able to offset the shortfall in the sector during the first quarter.

For the first three months ended March 31, MBM posted a lower net profit of RM18.74mil from RM21.97mil in the previous corresponding period.

Revenue dipped 6% to RM253.41mil from RM271.3mil previously.

Sunday, October 25, 2009

Perodua 1.3 Myvi Exclusive Edition - Review

Perodua had launched a refreshed variant to the their Myvi production. Dubbed the Perodua 1.3 Myvi Exclusive Edition offers several refinement to the interior and exterior. Very limited models available for booking now at every Perodua showrooms.




The new Myvi sports 14-inch alloy rims, side skirting and chrome door handles as you can in the picture above you. Nothing much done to the boot area though.



Chrome inner handles combined with leather clad seats, door trim and steering wheel that gives this variant an exclusive touch.



A built-in 2-DIN player with CD player,MP3/WMA, Universal Serial Bus (USB) is available and a Bluetooth features allows mobile hands free usage.


Only 5000 units are be built to live up to its expectation, The Exclusive Edition ! Currently, this variant only comes in automatic transmission and 3 colours to choose from - Ebony Black, Ivory White and Medallion Grey. On the road price for this Perodua 1.3 Myvi Exclusive Edition are RM51000 (solid) and RM51500 (metallic). Login into their website for more info.