Clutch 22 June 2012

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Honda Malaysia To Introduce The 9th Generation Civic Soon Remember the Honda Civic from 1974? It was small, cute and probably no larger than a Kancil in cabin space. It had a 1.3cc engine under the hood

and perky performance. Fast forward to 2012 and we have just been given a preview of the 9th generation all-new 2012 Civic. Already a segment

best seller for years in Malaysia, this 9th generation Civic will continue to be a best seller and a market leader. This new Civic will continue the tradition

of being fun-to-drive while being fuel efficient, sporty, stylish, durable and with good resale value. This year marks the 40th anniversary of production

of the Civic. It has sold over 20 million units world-wide since it was launched in Japan in 1972. With each generation, the Civic has improved with

performance, ride and interior packaging, increased fuel economy and the addition of interactive technologies for personalisation and conve-

ďƒ¨ more on PAgEII

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TESTDRIVE

Features of the all-new Civic range include: • Advanced safety systems including the Honda-exclusive Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure for frontal collision energy management and vehicle-to-vehicle crash compatibility • A long list of standard safety equipment including front and side airbags, nextgeneration Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) and anti-lock braking • Streamlined, expressive ‘mono-form’ exterior styling with clean, flowing lines • Roomier interior that delivers more style and convenience for class-leading space • New technology features including intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID), USB Audio Interface and Bluetooth connectivity • New powertrain technologies including re-engineered 1.8-litre and 2-litre four-cylinder i-VTEC engines with enhanced fuel economy Beneath the new aerodynamic skin of this 9th generation Civic is Honda’s commitment to safety, fun-to-drive performance, style, comfort, convenience, durability, quality and refinement.

Honda has long been known

for its world-class engine technology with class best drive dynamics and handling. Now with this 9th generation Civic, the process of innovation and improvement continues. Honda’s powertrain engineering works for better performance, class best fuel economy and low emissions to meet global standards.

This new Civic VTi-L comes with an advanced 104kW, 1.8litre i-VTEC engine that produces 174Nm of torque. The engine has been updated and refined from the previous generation Civic. The

new engine has extensive changes that reduce friction, improve emissions and increase fuel economy. The engine is a Single Overhead Cam (SOHC) inline four-cylinder design with 16 valves and a dual-stage intake manifold. Fuel economy has been improved, with fuel consumption at 6.7litres/100kms and CO2 emissions of 158 g/km.

The more powerful Civic 2-litre has a new refined i-VTEC engine that produces 114kW and 190Nm of torque. Fuel consumption figures for the automatic transmission is just 7.5litres/100kms with CO2 emissions of 178g/km. More details coming soon.

Engines have been improved for better efficiency

Body has more sound insulation for better cabin experience

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testdrive The Class Leader Raises Its Game

By Kon Wai Luen Pictures by DSF

The new 6th generation 3 Series, codenamed F30, was launched in Malaysia about 3 months ago, and it was offered with a choice of 3 turbocharged direct injection engines. Our review here focuses on the 328i, priced at RM289,900 on-the-road before insurance, making it the range’s middle child sitting in between the 2.0-litre diesel 320d and the 3.0-litre petrol 335i. Consumers have the option of selecting between two trims for the 328i, and our test car is specified in Sport Line specification, which features more aggressive-looking rims, and extensive use of gloss black finishing on the grilles, air intakes and exhaust. Inside, the red highlights on the dashboard and stitching further accentuate the appearance of sportiness.

The other trim option would be Luxury Line.

Powering the 328i is not Munich’s usual fare of a smooth-revving naturally aspirated inline-six, but rather a downsized 2.0-litre turbocharged four-pot, which, by the way, was recently voted as best engine in the 1.8 – 2.0-litre category in the International Engine of the Year awards. Currently, the 3 Series gets this engine exclusively in its most powerful 245hp / 350Nm state of tune.

There is a serious amount of technology in the engine, namely Valvetronic and Double VANOS. Features such as Auto Start / Stop, Brake Energy Regeneration, on-demand ancillaries, and electric power steering help optimize energy usage to further reduce

fuel consumption. Using the Drive Experience Control Switch, drivers can vary the 328i’s engine mapping from thrifty in Eco Pro mode to trigger happy in Sport and Sport+ modes. Equipped with a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission as standard, BMW claims that the 328i needs only 6.1 seconds to hit 100km/h from rest en route to a capped top speed of 250km/h. Fuel consumption, meanwhile, is rated at a respectable 6.3 l/100km on the combined cycle, though our real world testing yielded figures in the region of 11.0 l/100km on the trip computer, still decent considering the performance on offer.

The new engine may not have the same charm and charisma of its six-cylinder forebears, but it still lends a very positive contribution to the 328i’s driving experience. The generous spread of torque from down low allows brisk progress to be made even with the gentlest of throttle applications. Whilst most of its good

work is done in the mid-range, the engine will still gladly indulge you to regularly visit its 7,000rpm redline. In the ride & handling department, it was clear that BMW has adopted a slightly different philosophy in tuning the F30’s dynamics versus its predecessor.

Compared to the outgoing E90 3 Series, the F30 on a whole feels softer. Body control is not as tight, although ride has become more pliant and easier to live with on a day-to-day basis. While it’s still a competently honed setup, you can’t corner the F30 with the same reckless abandon as you would have with the E90.

Though technically a successor of the old 325i M Sport, the new 328i is a totally different animal altogether. It may offer superior outputs to its predecessor, but it is also softer and more pliant in comparison. This development will be lamentable for the enthusiasts, though we suspect this less edgy setup will be more appealing for the bigger majority of buyers.

BMW 328i SPECIFICATIONS Inline-4, DOHC, 16V, Turbocharged Capacity: 1,997cc Transmission: 8-speed A/T, RWD Max Power: 245hp @ 5,000 –

6.500rpm Max Torque: 350Nm @ 1,250 4,800rpm 0-100km/h: 6.1secs Top Speed: 250km/h Price: RM289,900 without

Insurance

Engine:

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TESTDRIVE Audi A6 2.0 TFSI

By KON WAI LUEN

The Audi A6 is a pretty well equipped car in comparison with its rivals. It has a 3.0litre supercharged engine with 300hp and 440Nm on tap paired to a 7-speed dual clutch transmission and allwheel drive. Add that up with a tastefully styled exterior and the best-built cabin in the business, you get a compelling alternative to the Mercedes E-Class and BMW 5 Series.

It’s certainly good value, but RM515,000 for the aforementioned 3.0 TFSI quattro is not a small sum of money even if you are doing extremely well in life. Not everyone is hard-up on the advantages of all-wheel drive, and if you are one of those who are more pragmatic with your requirements, the more attractively priced 2.0 TFSI model tested here is an option worth considering.

At RM345,000, the A6 2.0 TFSI is a full RM170,000 cheaper than its bigger brother. Outputs are undoubtedly reduced, but the 180hp and 320Nm generated by its 2.0litre turbocharged four-pot remain decent figures by any measure. The dual clutch transmission is also removed, being replaced by the Multitronic CVT programmed with eight virtual ratios, and drive now goes solely to the front wheels rather than all four.

In terms of equipment, you lose two rear side airbags,

electric child locks, electric steering adjust, reverse camera, and keyless entry. There are some differences in leather and wood trim material, but that’s it. The 2.0 TFSI gets a fair share of equipment enjoyed by its bigger brother, and most notably, Audi did not scale down its MMI system here.

Sitting inside the impeccably built cabin, one is rewarded by the usual sense of occasion that never fails to impress in any Audi cabin. Not only is material choice, fit, and finish top notch, its appearance is appropriately classy and premium. The steering wheel and wood trim might be different from the 3.0, but never are you made to feel that you’ve picked the cheaper option.

That same feeling persists when you hit the road. Although 180hp can be considered as conservative for a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine, its spread of torque is usefully high and wide - peaking at 1,500 to 3,900rpm. Aided by its competent CVT, the A6 2.0 is thus able to pull serious amounts of speed without the need of too many revs. Effortless is the word that comes to mind in summarizing the A6’s performance. It is important to note that by picking the A6 2.0, you are not limiting yourself to a poor man’s A6. No doubt there is some deficit in performance and equipment against the 3.0-litre model, Audi was still reasonably generous with the amount of kit packed into the 2.0 that you will not feel

marginalized for choosing the cheaper model.

You are also not getting an underpowered vehicle, unlike the case in yesteryear's when choosing an entry-level variant for a German marque means picking a car that al-

most shouts “I can’t afford the 3.0-litre model”. Such considerations are no longer necessary with the A6 — you are not only getting a well-equipped vehicle for the money, but also one with more than decent performance.

AUDI A6 2-LITRE TFSI SPECIFICATIONS Inline-4, DOHC, 16V, Turbo CAPACITY: 1,984cc TRANSMISSION: Multitronic CVT, FWD MAX POWER: 180hp @ 4,000 6,000rpm

ENGINE:

320Nm @ 1,500 3,900rpm ACCELERATION: 8.3 seconds MAX SPEED: 226 km/h PRICE: RM345,000 without Insurance

MAX TORQUE:

Elegant looking from all sides — Pic: DSF

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NEWTHINKING

Hyundai At the 2012 Busan Motor Show HYUNDAI Motor Company, South Korea’s biggest automaker, showcased the Elantra Coupe to its home market last month at the Busan International Motor Show 2012, which was held from May 24 to June 3 under the theme of ‘The voyage of the green car across the ocean.’

“The Elantra Coupe*, developed based on the Elantra sedan, will offer new experience and value to customers with even more sophisticated styling. We will continuously offer ‘Modern Premium’ values to more customers.” said Choong Ho Kim, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor.

Hyundai’s eye-catching booth, covering the largest space at the motor show, was set up under the design concept of ‘Dynamic Flow to the Future.’

While Hyundai applied its global common booth design to reflect a unified image of its brand direction ‘Modern Premium’

worldwide, the booth was also specifically designed to exude a dynamic image of the vibrant port city of Busan.

The Elantra Coupe has an

overall length of 4,540mm (10mm longer than the sedan), an overall width of 1,775mm and an overall height of 1,435mm. Thanks to the 2.0

Nu GDi Engine and its six-speed transmission, the Coupe delivers more dynamic performance comparing to the sedan with a maximum power of 175ps and

maximum torque of 21.3kg.m.

The launch in Korean domestic market is scheduled for the second half of this year and a Malaysian introduction soon after.

Hyundai Motor also caught visitors’ attention by introducing the IT controlling system Bluelink which work with smartphones. By accessing a smartphone app at home, customers can spot, unlock and start their cars that are parked outside.

Drivers can also turn on the air conditioner, send directions to the cars’ navigators and receive text messages when people try to break into or damage to the car.

During the motor show, Hyundai also displayed a wide range of models from eco-friendly vehicles to highend luxury models, including its newest concept cars, i-oniq and Hexa Space, as well as its motorsports vehicles, the Genesis coupe race car.

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NEWPOSSIBILITIES

How Hyundai Made Its way Up The Sales Ladder THE Hyundai Sonata was designed to compete directly with European and Japanese segment competitors in areas of reduced engine noise and vibration. The Sonata delivered in all areas with excellent manoeuvrability and handling. The Sonata’s body is a brainchild of the collaboration between Korean and American engineers and is almost identical to the design concept produced by Hyundai’s California Design Centre. The shape of its rear window is also innovative. Meanwhile, the Tucson SUV received its refreshing design from Hyundai’s offices at Rüsselsheim, Germany.

The very popular Elantra embodies Hyundai’s “flowing sculpture” design scheme, lending it a streamlined appearance for a very reasonable price. Hyundai is also active in the hybrid and EV scene, responding to the South Korean government’s increasing interest in environment- friendly policies and introduction of development cost subsidies for “green” technologies. Hyundai’s power train plant now focuses on the development of EVs, hybrids,

and its independent DCT. The next generation of vehicles will be equipped with either 8-speed automatic transmission or a 7-speed DCT. Hyundai is currently expanding its operations to Brazil, Russia, India, and China, and aims to feature six different platforms depending on each country’s requirements. Meanwhile, the petrol driven direct injection engine and its turbo variant will launch in America soon, while a diesel variant will retail in Europe. From 2012, 6-speed manual and automatic transmissions will be fitted in Hyundai’s compacts and mid-sized cars, while 8-speed automatic transmission will be equipped in its sedans.

Eight new cars are scheduled for release by 2013, giving the automaker a total of 40 distinct models. This suggests that Hyundai is shortening the development period of new cars to 24 months from the current 33.

Development expenses are also expected to be slashed by €500 billion* (about ¥36 billion) to only €200 billion* (about ¥14.6 billion). With these strategies, Hyundai is likely to achieve its goal to produce 7 million cars by 2013 pushing up to be the 4th largest auto manufacturer in the world.

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MALAYSIAnnews Volkswagen CC debuts in Malaysia The new Volkswagen CC is here and it replaces the earlier prefix of Passat CC, creating a niche for itself and detaches from the Passat to an independent model series with its own identity and name. The CC now uses a 1.8litre TSI engine that develops produces 160PS at 5,000rpm and 250Nm of torque between 1,500 and 4,200rpm. It accelerates to 100km/h in just 8.5 seconds, with a top speed of 223km/h. This TSI engine is exceptionally fuel-efficient with a combined efficiency of 7.2 litres/100km. With a 7-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) it offers driving fun and performance.

There is also Adaptive Chassis Control (DCC).

There is a new radiator grille, bi-xenon headlights and bonnet and the LED daytime running lights are integrated in the headlight housings. The CC rides on 17” ‘Phoenix’ alloy wheels. The

The new VW CC drops the Passat name plate to stand alone as the CC. It gets sharper features and a new engine with an asking price that cannot be ignored by many segment buyers

CC’s interior is equipped with a multi-function leather steering wheel with control for DSG, electrically adjustable front seats, driver’s seat with memory, electric parking brake with auto-hold

function, Nappa leather seats and the RCD 510 touch-screen radio with 6 CD changer and 8 speakers. This new CC also comes with assistance systems that can detect driver fatigue,

known as ‘Rest Assist’ system.

Safety comes with 6 airbags with Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS) and Brake Assist (BA). Additionally, the car comes equipped

with a tyre pressure monitoring system, rain sensor and auto dimming rear view mirror.

The VW CC comes in two versions — Comfort and Sport. The Sport offers additional features

including 18” ‘Interlagos’ alloy wheels, “KESSY” keyless entry and starting system, “DYNAUDIO” Confidence 600W premium sound system with 10 speakers, panoramic tilting glass roof, “Rear Assist” rear view camera and brushed dark aluminium decorative inserts for dashboard and door trim panels. The VW CC is on sale in Candy White, Light Brown Metallic, Black Oak Brown Metallic, Reflex Silver Metallic, Icelandic Grey Pearl and Deep Black Pearl and carries a price tag of RM225,888 for the Comfort version and RM243,888 for the Sport version (NSP). For more information, please visit www.volkswagen.com.my.

PROTON PREVÉ is Malaysia’s Best Selling 1.6L Sedan With Over 11,000 Bookings In just 2 months from its launch, the Proton Prevé has taken in a total booking of 11,310 units, making it the most popular 1.6-litre sedan in the market. There are 3 variants: the Premium with 1.6 CFE (turbocharged) engine mated to PROTON’s 7-speed ProTronic CVT priced from RM72,990 on-the-road (peninsular Malaysia), and two Executive variants with the 6-speed CVT transmission, and 5-speed manual transmission — both coupled with the IAFM+ engine

with pricing from RM59,990 to RM62,990. All Prevé models come with a class best 5-year or 150,000km warranty (whichever comes first).

The Prevé 1600cc power plant produces 138bhp at 4,000rpm with a maximum torque of 205Nm from 2,000 to 4,000rpm, essentially offering the best acceleration for a vehicle in its class. Despite this, the Prevé offers a commendable fuel consumption rating from 6.6 litres/100km.

On top of exceptional perfor-

mance and fuel economy, the Prevé is equipped with a Push Start button*, LED lights, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), active headrests, anti-trap power window, and four airbags* amongst the many newly-enhanced equipment level for a Proton car. (*Only available in the Premium variant). Another unique feature of the car is that it is 4G enabled, courtesy of PROTON’s collaboration

with YES 4G. With a service interval of every 10,000km for a lower cost of ownership, the Prevé is available in six colour

choices of Blue Lagoon, Fire Red, Tranquility Black, Solid White, Genetic Silver and Elegant Brown.

This is a global car that comes with showroom glitz and glamour combined with the necessary features and safety equipment to be a best seller

CHEVROLET CAPTIVA TURBO-DIESEL On Sale From RM158,888.00 Chevrolet Malaysia has launched 2 new and more powerful turbo-diesel variants of the Chevrolet Captiva SUV which come with a turbocharged 2.0L Diesel VCDI engine that produces a powerful 360Nm from as low as 2,750rpm and 122kW/163PS at 3,800rpm will be available in both LT and LTZ variants.

This is then transferred to the driving wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission which features Driver Shift Control (DSC) and ECO mode similar to the one found in the petrol variant Captiva LT. Equipment and safety features on the diesel Captiva’s are similar with the petrol

Captiva’s with dual front airbags supplemented by curtain airbags, disc brakes on all four wheels (ventilated at the front) with anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), traction control, Electronic Stability Program (ESP) including anti-rollover protection (ARP) and selflevelling suspension system (Self-Levelizer). Premium features such as the ‘Hill Start Assist’ and ‘Hill Descent Control’ which helps the Captiva maintain a constant speed when descending steep slopes to maximize traction and control are standard on all variants.

Retail prices for the Chevrolet Captiva without insurance 2.4L Petrol ECOTEC AWD LT: 2.0L Turbo-Diesel VCDi AWD LT: 2.0L Turbo-Diesel VCDi AWD LTZ:

RM 158,888 RM 165,888 RM 168,888

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malaysiannews Ford’s 1.0-liter Ecoboost Named 2012 International Engine of the Year It good news for Ford engineers as the 1.0-liter Ecoboost engine they developed has been awarded the prestigious 2012 International Engine of the Year. It also received the “Best New Engine” and “Best Engine Under 1.0-litre” accolades. This marks the first time that Ford has won an International Engine of the Year in the 13-year history of the awards.

This 1.0-liter engine delivers

great fuel economy, surprising performance, quietness and refinement, all from a very small 3-cylinder engine.

Ford’s Ecoboost award winning engine comes with the following features. An exhaust manifold, cast into the cylinder head to lower the temperature of exhaust gases to enable the optimum fuel-to-air ratio across a wider rev band. There is a unique cast iron block that

warms up the engine more quickly than a conventional aluminium block to cut by 50 per cent the amount of “warmup” energy required, and thus reducing fuel consumption on ignition. The main engine drive belts are immersed in oil to deliver a quieter, more efficient engine. All these new features have made the 1.0liter Ecoboost engine a class act product.

Luxury Version Of The ISUZU D-MAX Launched Isuzu has launched the 3rdgeneration D-Max HI-DEF with a host of luxurious fittings and trim in a limited production run of just 210 units. Based on the 3.0L 4x4 D-Max, the new HI-DEF will be available with a choice of either automatic or manual gearboxes and comes in a special Platinum Brown Mica paintwork or Mercury Silver Metallic. The rims come with a titanium finish while the radiator and under grilles feature a lattice design finished in chrome. There is a new bumper guard and chrome body stripe. At the rear, a chrome lamp guard accentuates the newly designed ‘D-Box’. This unique lid allows cargo to be safely locked away or removed altogether to haul larger items.

The new ‘D-Box’ is also a new design and has a rugged side profile roll bar, giving the HIDEF a more muscular profile.

Customers can also opt for an anodized aluminium roll bar in place of the ‘D-Box’.

There are exclusive HI-DEF

decals on the sides of the car and on the tailgate while the door visors have their own HIDEF logos. Open the door and the Isuzu sill logo lights up in a pleasant blue LED glow. Inside, the brown Italian leatherwrapped seats feature the HI-

DEF logo stitched into and the carpet mats are also exclusive to the limited edition model.

There is also a new entertainment and GPS navigation command centre. This multimedia unit plays back just about any format of encoding including

MP3, MP4 and movies via DVD, USB or auxiliary cable connections with a reverse camera to help you ease into that tight spot. The system also comes with a Bluetooth handsfree connection that will sync to most major phones for safe

driving.

The Isuzu D-Max HI-DEF Limited Edition commands a starting on-the-road price from RM 96,498.40 without insurance and is available at all Isuzu authorised showrooms immediately.

The interior of new Renault Koleos features stowage space

of up to 70 litres. Access to the large boot (450dm3 VDA) is facilitated by the split-opening tailgate, the bottom section of which forms a robust bench when lowered.

The 60/40split rear bench seat is equipped with the Easy -Estate system, which means it can be folded in one quick movement to free up

a flat floor and boot space of 1,380dm3 VDA. The 4x4 versions of new Renault Koleos also incorporate Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control. Use of the audio and dual-zone climate control systems is perfectly intuitive and their controls fall readily to hand. Meanwhile, careful attention has been paid to eliminating mechanical and road noise which means that occupants are able to fully appreciate the premium Bose® sound audio system which has been tailor-engineered to match the characteristics of the cabin.

Renault Kaleos arrives in Malaysia The facelifted Renault Koleos has been launched recently at a price of RM223,810.70.

The chief changes are in the model's exterior styling and interior trim. This Renault Koleos will also be available in a new dynamic body colour: Cayenne Orange.

This new Renault Koleos comes with a 170hp (TR25) petrol engine. It delivers dynamic, high-quality performance under the bonnet of this crossover which measures 4.52m in length and 1.85m in width. The Nissan-developed all-wheel drive transmission

ensures genuine off-road ability. Renault's expertise in the realm of active and passive safety saw the brand's crossover earn a five-star EuroNCAP crash test rating at the time of its launch thanks to features such as ESP, emergency brake assist, programmed structural deformation, six airbags and seat belt pretensioners.

New Renault Koleos boasts segment-leading

cabin space and comfort, while the interior layout benefits from the extensive expertise of the MPV's pioneer.

EDITORIAL NOTE

by Daniel Fernandez

|

Consultant Motoring Editor

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A motoring pullout is a common feature with most newspapers… but Clutch will be different. How different? Well just like the rest of the all new The Malay Mail, Clutch will be informative and true to its editorial integrity. Clutch will be a bi-monthly (every other Friday of the month) motoring pullout that will give straight-to-the-point car reviews and relevant motoring information for the Malaysian car enthusiast in a

Joel Miranda

Lim Ee Mae

simple language. We will not confuse you or ‘smoke screen’ you with technical terms and instead offer our views on each and every test drive. In this first issue, we at Clutch hope that the car reviews presented will be

General Manager

Manager

able to move you to personally take a test drive of the cars reviewed at the nearest showrooms and see for yourself what we experience in each and every test drive. Your feedback is needed for us to improve in every area.

012-2337394 joel.miranda@redberry.com.my

012-2073241 eemae@mmail.com.my

Email us at clutcheditorial@gmail.com.

Please watch out for our next issue on the 13th of July 2012.

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