StarSpecial

THE STAR Sunday 9 November 2014

Superb performance > 4 Drive in style > 6

Annual guide for buyersMore options for your next purchase.

Motoring

2 MOTORING StarSpecial, Sunday 9 November 2014

Perodua Axia.

Proton Iriz.

Playing the numbers gameEARLIER this year, the

Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) released

a total industry volume figure of 670,000 units for vehicle sales in Malaysia.

In July, MAA announced a revised figure of 680,000 units.

The increment was due to improving economic conditions, says MAA president Datuk Aishah Ahmad.

However, the figures decreased in August to 51,125 units and then another 5.7% in September to 47,771 units.

Many car companies reported that sales figures were slightly down as well and for those whose figures remained the same, more effort and discounts were required to attract buyers and get stock moving.

Industry insiders claim that Bank Negara’s decision

to raise the overnight policy by 25 basis points to 3.25% has affected the sales of vehicles in the country.

Some dealers claim that the hike has resulted in a 10% approval rate among their customers, which means that only one out of every 10 loan applications will secure financing.

This may look unadvantageous for the automotive sector but may also prove to be good for the nation, as said by many industry leaders.

Industry leaders say that there is a need to weed out high-risk customers and make sure that only those who can afford payment will be able to secure the loans.

They also mention that Bank Negara is doing the

rakyat a favour by preventing them from getting into a financial commitment that they cannot afford.

The affected car companies will include those dealing with the entry-level market, namely Proton and Perodua.

Being the producers of Asean’s cheapest sedan (Proton Saga)

and Asean’s cheapest car (Perodua Axia), these companies

will undoubtedly be impacted the most.

However, Perodua has a better selection of customers for its best-selling car, MyVi. Its latest model, the Axia, will be targeting the same clientele as the Viva.

Proton’s latest product, the Iriz, was launched in September but delivery has been dwindling because Proton wanted to ensure that their product met stricter quality control criteria before being released to the public.

Still, it is supposed to be the game changer for the company and judging from reports, the Iriz

has the capability to lift Proton out of its dry spell.

There are also quarters who want Bank Negara to cut down on the loan tenureship for cars from a maximum of nine years to seven

or even five years. This will definitely hurt

the car market for a year or so but increase quality buyers and decrease non-performing loan rates.

Car companies will also react by lowering their prices to ensure that their cars remain affordable to the market, a situation

similar to that in Thailand and Indonesia where car

loans involve stricter rules and qualifications.

However, the requirements for homologation in Malaysia are the highest in Asean and the process follows strict European Commission guidelines.

While homologation ensures that the rakyat gets good products with higher safety standards, they also come with a higher price.

For sellers to lower their prices means they need to compensate such as by having less features.

Although the National Automotive Policy has been announced, more structured ruling needs to be designed to ensure a better future for the industry for the next five to10 years.

StarSpecial, Sunday 9 November 2014 MOTORING 3

Specifications

Engine: 1,598cc 4-cyl in-line, 120bhp, 160Nm, FWDFuel consumption: 6.9l/100km, 158g/km CO2Performance: 0-100 in 10.9 secs, 190kphWeight: 1,164kgPrice: RM117,888

The DS3 embodies Citroen’s stylish vision.

The steering wheel and seats incorporate sleek leather designs.

The Citreon OS3 is a head-turner.

Smooth driveCITROEN looks to bank on style and the DS3 embodies that vision.

Unlike Citroen’s other offerings in the country, namely the DS4 and DS5, the DS3 does without PSA’s famed force-inducted Prince engine.

Instead, the engine bay is occupied by a 1.6-litre VTi mill paired to a four-speed automatic shifter.

With no turbocharger to provide an extra kick, the DS3’s engine dishes out a sedate 120hp and 160Nm that peaks at 6,000rpm and 4,250rpm respectively.

This propels the three-door hatchback to 100kph from a standstill in 10.9 seconds and to a top speed of 190kph, which are respectable figures given the nature of the DS3’s drivetrain.

There is much to be appreciated with the DS3’s leather-wrapped steering wheel that is also lined with aluminium, adding a premium touch.

The glossy black finish on the contoured dashboard sets a tone that brings a retro look to the cabin.

The only thing out of place in its funky and modern design features is the single-DIN audio head unit that feels more old-fashioned than vintage.

The Citroen DNA is evident in the DS3’s cabin design; it maintains a design flow while making the Citroen feel funkier, with a sense of refinement.

Outside, the Citroen DS3 takes on a persona that is truly its own. The shark fin B-pillar and imposing 17-inch Bellone Black Diamond alloy boosts the

charismatic look of the exterior, making the DS3 one of the best-looking cars in the DS range.

Citroen’s designs seem to work better with the DS3’s compact proportions. It turns more heads than its bigger siblings.

The four-speed automatic gearbox is a good match for the rev-happy engine. Its long gear throws may be uncomfortable in heavy traffic but on a traffic-free road, the engine is capable of keeping above the 5,000rpm line, putting all 120 horses to full use.

It is possibly the most responsive 1.6L non-turbo mill one can have.

Partially responsible for the DS3’s high-speed comfort and stability is an unorthodox damping setup that is high-riding and stiff at the same time.

This unique suspension makes the DS3 a joy to drive fast on and maneouvre winding roads, thanks to its quick reactions and precise steering. However, uneven roads will cause an uncomfortably bumpy ride.

The DS3’s charisma from aesthetic and technical aspects will bring fun into your daily commutes.

4 MOTORING StarSpecial, Sunday 9 November 2014

Superb performanceIF you are thinking of getting

yourself a premium sedan, Peugeot currently has fantastic

deals at its showrooms across the country.

The Peugeot 508 is offering RM15,000 savings off its usual price.

This winner of the Best Design Executive at the Red Dot Design Awards comes with a turbocharged engine that unleashes 158PS and 240Nm and a plethora of safety equipment such as six airbags (including curtain airbags) and five-star Euro New Car Assessment Programme rating.

Premium amenities in the 508 Premium include the automatic quadzone zircon system, which is able to offer four different zone temperature settings, a seven-inch high-definition colour screen with satellite navigation system, Bi-Xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights and a JBL audio system that kicks out 500W of surround sound through its 10 speakers.

The Peugeot 408 Turbo, the modern C-segment family car that combines comfort and performance is now priced at RM98,000.

With class-leading interior space and matching performance and design, the 408 Turbo comes standard with six airbags and all the electronic safety system, which includes anti-lock braking system, electronic brakeforce distribution, emergency brake assist, anti-slip regulation and electronic stability programme.

The engine offers 165PS and 240Nm while the six-speed auto adaptive transmission offers Tiptronic and Sportmode functions.

In the back, the 408 Turbo shows its practicality with a large 562L boot while the interior offers ample groom and a comfortable layout.

Both promotions last until the end of this month, so head for any Peugeot showrooms now and check out this interesting deal.

All Peugeot models come with a five-year warranty with unlimited mileage together with

Nasim’s existing 24-hour Peugeot Assistance service, complimentary access to the Peugeot Lounge at Subang Airport and Peugeot Privilege membership, all to provide the best ownership experience to its customers.

n Terms and conditions apply. The price shown is OTR price without insurance. Offer valid for 508 Premium and 408 Turbo models only.

The Peugeot408 Turbo.

The Peugeot 408 Turbo’s interior offers ample legroom.

The Iriz’s stylish dashboard.

The spacious black interior.

Safe and economicalSpecifications

Engine: Campro 1,597cc VVTMax power: 107hp @ 5,750rpmMax torque: 150Nm @ 4,000 rpmTransmission: CVTMax speed: 170kph0-100kph: 11.1secondsPrice: RM62,438 OTR

PROTON launched its compact hatchback, the Iriz more than a month ago and the Iriz looks cute and petite even though in reality it is longer, wider and taller than its biggest competitor, the Perodua Myvi.

While the Myvi is a Malaysian favourite, the Iriz could be the perfect platform for Proton to venture out of the country and focus on emerging markets that are in dire need of an affordable, safe and economical car.

The Iriz has a modern design that should do well in the next few years. With its bodykit, 15-inch wheels and rear spoiler, the Iriz definitely hits a high note among the younger crowd.

On the inside, the Iriz is bigger than the Myvi although its black interior does not really show this. The boot is also claimed to be larger at 215L compared to the Myvi’s 208L.

The dashboard looks modern, uses proper materials and has no parts that feel flimsy. Even the touch screen head unit looks premium.

The plastics may be hard to touch but it is acceptable for a car in this price range.

The engine is a 1.6L four inline unit that uses the VVT valve technology to offer 107hp and 150Nm.

Although it is called Campro, the engine is a new unit and features new blocks, pistons and valves.

In fact, this is an engine that will be the base for more new engines in the same family.

As expected, the Iriz handles

like a larger car on the tarmac despite its diminutive size.

The engineers have tuned the MacPherson strut and torsion beam so that the car handles exceptionally well.

When driven on uneven terrain, the Iriz soaks up the bumps and remains solid.

The engine is quiet but when

revved hard, the Punch CVT transmission lets out a really loud roar. If one can get pass the CVT, the Iriz is a car that will please those who love driving in many ways.

Looking good is just one of the Iriz’s traits. If there is a product that can help bring a change to Proton, the Iriz is definitely it.

The Proton Iriz.

Sunday 9 November 2014 StarSpecial 5

6 MOTORING StarSpecial, Sunday 9 November 2014

Drive in style

ONE of the hottest segments in the market is the C-segment premium

sedan, where the Germans are dominating the show.

Volvo has always had a fair share in the market, having been in Malaysia for a long time and was one of the first brands to locally assemble its cars.

The Swedish brand has also swiftly adapted to the market, with a sexy design and high-level equipment. The C-segment includes the S60 and V60, which are both formidable models.

The S60 comes in two variants. The first is the S60 T4 that draws its power from a turbocharged 1.6-litre, four-cylinder engine in a transverse configuration that pumps out 180hp and 240Nm.

The second is the S60 T5, with a more powerful turbocharged two-litre, four-cylinder engine in a transverse configuration that is capable of unleashing 240hp and 320Nm.

Both use the same six-speed powershift automatic transmission that gives the vehicles fuel consumption rates of 6.8L/100km (T4) and 8.1L/100km (T5).

The S60 and V60 have svelte bodies and the headlight design jives well with the curves on the body panels, making it a car that will turn heads.

Under the body lies high-tech gadgetry. Volvo has become tech-centric and the S60 hosts many of the technologies that make your drive safer and ease the pressure of city driving.

Volvo has had adaptive cruise control (ACC) for quite some time but the S60 and V60 get an

upgraded version of the ACC to include queue assist function.

The previous radar-based ACC turns off at speeds below 30kph. This version works during your morning rush hour or evening crawl back home, allowing stress-free driving at all times.

Volvo’s new safety system will alert you to a potential collision so that you react by braking. If that fails, the computer will automatically stop the car.

In bustling city areas where pedestrians cross roads constantly, Volvo’s system comes in useful as it brings the car to a complete stop one foot away from a pedestrian if the computer detects that a collision is otherwise unavoidable. To do this, Volvo uses a camera

and an array of sensors that recognise human figures.

The driver alert control is another unique technology that Volvo uses to detect and warn tired and inattentive drivers of potential dangers.

The computer in the Volvo studies the vehicle’s progress as it changes lanes and sets off an alert if it senses that the drive pattern is erratic (such as in cases where the driver is drowsy).

A camera monitors the car’s position between road markings and if the driver changes lane without proper indication, a gentle warning sound will alert the driver. This system remains active as long as the speed is above 60kph.

Dynamic stability and traction control (DSTC) is what helps a driver regain control of his vehicle and the technology has been proven to save lives.

Using sensors, the system utilises the brakes and the engine power to regain control of the vehicle. It is akin to having four brake pedals.

DSTC also works with advanced stability control, giving it a new roll angle sensor that detects if the car is about to skid. It allows DSTC to work quicker and earlier.

Corner traction control allows you to take sharper turns at higher speed (for emergency manoeuvres). It uses a torque-vectoring algorithm and brakes either the inner or outer driven

wheel to cancel out the understeer effect.

The headlights move into the direction the car is moving so the active bending lights help light up the road further ahead, allowing the driver to ascertain road conditions, which is particularly important when driving at night and on winding roads.

The S60 sedan is priced from RM221,888 OTR without insurance and the V60 from RM231,888 OTR without insurance, both including a five-year warranty and five-year free service with parts per scheduled service.

You also get the five-year Volvo-On-Call roadside assist service.

Feature-packed compactTHE Koreans have proved that it is possible to be cute and practical at the same time with the Picanto. The Picanto is not a new brand in Malaysia but its latest iteration has shown progress in every aspect.

Feature-laden is the best term to describe this Korean compact. With six airbags, traction control, keyless entry and ignition as well as a host of other elements, the Picanto’s list of features makes the specification sheets of some executive saloons that were sold just a year or two ago look inadequate.

However, what is more interesting is its drive. The second-generation Picanto is equipped with a 1.25L Kappa power plant under its diminutive hood.

Do not let its size fool you as the engine, which is the same one as the Hyundai i10, is good for 86hp and 120Nm. This is a substantial engine for a car that weighs less than a tonne.

In the Picanto, the engine’s output is channelled to the front wheels via a conventional four-speed automatic gearbox. There is a cheaper manual option for buyers who are on a budget or for buyers who want to be more hands-on with their gear shifts.

As a city-focused hatchback, the Picanto is nearly faultless. Its modest proportions and small turning radius make it easy to manoeuvre while the well matched

drivetrain makes driving a breeze. More advanced drivers may find the gearbox to be a little slow but it does not detract from the fact that the Picanto is generally an easy car to drive.

Kia claims that the Picanto’s fuel consumption is 5.3L/100km. A test drive revealed that it is easy to keep the figure below seven under normal driving circumstances.

Even during maximum acceleration, the Picanto’s fuel readings were still within the 8.5L/100km mark.

The Picanto is not as big as the Myvi, which means that it will not be too competitive against Malaysia’s favourite hatchback where space is concerned.

However, the cabin is roomy enough for two adults to sit comfortably in the back with a couple of bags stowed in the boot. It is worth noting that the Picanto’s cabin is slightly roomier than its sister car, the Hyundai i10.

At nearly RM60,000, the Picanto may not seem like value for money at first, given that Proton and Perodua models are priced lower.

However, the Picanto’s equipment levels, refinement, ride and handling are nearly on par with cars that cost twice its price, making this little compact truly worth every ringgit.

Specifications

Engine: 1,248cc Kappa MPI CVVTMax Power: 86hp at 6,000rpmMax torque: 120Nm at 4,000rpmTransmission: 4-speed automaticPrice: RM59,888

Volvo S60.

The elegant interior.

Kia Picanto.

Sunday 9 November 2014 StarSpecial 7

8 MOTORING StarSpecial, Sunday 9 November 2014

Timepiece paystribute to snow groomerNICKNAMED the Bully as a nod to the piece of machinery that inspired its design, SevenFriday P3/3 pays tribute to PistenBully, the magnificently efficient snow groomer.

There may be no snow in Malaysia, but SevenFriday’s P3/3 has made a sensational impact here since reaching our shores in September.

What makes the P3/3 stand out is its white animation ring, symbolic of the white snow that the snow groomer works on.

The grey PVD (physical vapour deposition) on the stainless steel watch case, which retains its signature squircle (a combination of the words square and circle) shape, pays homage to the colour of the vehicle.

Bright touches of orange, which is a colour often used on the snow groomer to ensure its visibility in snowy weather and terrains, enliven the watch dial.

The key elements of the P-series dial is retained in the P3/3, which features five different layers on the dial.

The exposed escapement, 24-hour disc, and small seconds disc, intertwined with the hour and minute indicators all come together to give the watch a complex futuristic industrial look that many are now familiar with.

The P3/3 is powered by the automatic Miyota 82S7 movement and comes with a matching grey rubber strap. The P3/3 currently retails at RM4,049.

n For more informtion, visitwww.sevenfriday.com

SevenFriday P3/3 is exclusively available at authorised retailers of TWB Marketing:

• Red Army Watches (Pavilion KL)• Tropicana City Mall• 1Utama Shopping Centre)• Mad.is.On (Bangsar Village)• Yee Wah Hing’s Watch (Bangsar

Shopping Centre)• Hing’s Watch (Jaya Shopping

Centre) and• Tai Hing Watch (Johor Baru)

Price guide for the new yearCHEVROLET MALIBU 2.4 LTZ

Price: Starting from RM153,888 without insuranceEngine: Ecotec 2.4L DOHC with DCVCPTransmission: Six-speed automatic with manual overridePower: 165hp@5800rpmTorque: 225Nm@4600rpm

Chevrolet

LEXUS RC F

Price: Starting from RM782,000 without insuranceEngine: 4,969cc, V8Transmission: Eight-speed Sport Direct Shift A/TPower: 470hp@7100rpmTorque: 530Nm@4800-5600rpm

Lexus

MERCEDES-BENZ CLA 45 AMG 4MATIC

Price - Carbon-Fibre Trim: RM395,888 without insuranceLight Aluminium Trim: RM392,888 w/out insuranceEngine: 1,991ccTransmission: Seven G-DCT automatic transmissionPower: 360hp@6000rpmTorque: 450Nm@2250ñ5000rpm

Mercedes Benz

PROTON IRIZ 1.3

Price: From RM42,438 with insurance to RM49,888 with insuranceEngine: 1,332ccTransmission: Five-speed manual/CVTPower: 94hp@5750 Torque:120Nm@4000

Proton

MERCEDES-BENZ C200

Price: RM285,888 without insuranceEngine: 1,991ccTransmission: Six-speed manual transmission (Seven G-TRONIC PLUS)Power: 184hp@5500rpmTorque: 300Nm@1200ñ4000rpm

Mercedes Benz

MERCEDES-BENZ E400 AVANTGARDE

Price: RM493,888 without insuranceEngine: 2,996cc, V6Transmission: Seven G-tronic, seven-speed automaticPower: 333hp@5250-6000rpmTorque: 480Nm@1600-4000rpm

Mercedes Benz

LEXUS RC

Price: Starting from RM526,000 without insuranceEngine: 3,456cc, V6Transmission: Eight-speed Sport Direct Shift A/TPower: 312hp@6400rpmTorque: 378Nm@4800rpm

Lexus

MERCEDES-BENZ CLA 200

Price: RM235,888 without insuranceEngine: 1,595ccTransmission: Seven G-DCT automatic transmissionPower: 156hp@5300rpmTorque: 250Nm@1250ñ4000rpm

Mercedes Benz

LEXUS RC

Price: Starting from RM526,000 without insuranceEngine: 3,456cc, V6Transmission: Eight-speed Sport Direct Shift A/TPower: 312hp@6400rpmTorque: 378Nm@4800rpm

Lexus

PERODUA AXIA

Price: From RM24,600 with insurance to RM42,530 with insuranceEngine: 998ccTransmission: Four-speed automatic/Five-speed manualPower: 66hp@6000rpmTorque: 90Nm@3600rpm

Perodua

PROTON IRIZ 1.6

Price: From RM53,438 with insurance to RM62,888 with insuranceEngine: 1,597ccTransmission: Five-speed manual/CVTPower: 107hp@5750Torque: 150Nm@4000

Proton

MERCEDES-BENZ C250

Price - Exclusive: RM314,888 without insuranceExclusive (Advance Car): RM318,888 w/out insuranceEngine: 1,991ccTransmission: Seven G-TRONIC PLUSPower: 211hp@5500rpmTorque: 350Nm@1200ñ4000rpm

Mercedes Benz

Starting price without insuranceCHEVROLET

Sonic 1.4 Sedan RM76,888 without insurance

Sonic 1.4 H/Back RM78,888 without insurance

Cruze 1.8 RM103,888 without insurance

Captiva 2.4 RM158,888 without insurance

Colorado 2.8 RM 95,888 without insurance

Orlando 1.8 RM118,888 without insurance

Malibu 2.4 RM153,888 without insurance

LEXUS

IS 250 RM270,200 without insurance

IS 250 F Sport RM333,000 without insurance

IS Hybrid RM383,300 without insurance

ES 250 RM259,800 without insurance

ES Hybrid RM353,000 without insurance

GS 250 RM366,200 without insurance

GS 250 F Sport RM401,600 without insurance

GS 350 RM470,000 without insurance

GS 350 F Sport RM478,000 without insurance

GS 300 Hybrid RM536,800 without insurance

LS 460 RM769,448 without insurance

LS 460 F Sport RM799,448 without insurance

LS 600h L RM1,048,199 without insurance

RX 270 RM359,800 without insurance

RX 350 RM399,800 without insurance

RX 350 F Sport RM409,800 without insurance

RX 450 Hybrid RM525,000 without insurance

CT 200 Hybrid RM256,885 without insurance

CT 300 Hybrid F Sport RM325,324 without insurance

RC RM526,000 without insurance

RC F RM782,000 without insurance

These price guides will help you make an informed decision on your next car purchase.

The P3/3 is inspired by the PistenBully snow grommer.