As we welcome the new year, one thing is for sure, the arrival of new cars. Well, some new cars are merely facelifts, while others are a whole new model. Let’s take a closer look of what we can look forward to, shall we?
Audi
Audi A4
The latest Audi A4 B9 made a global debut in June 2015. The new MQB-underpinned Audi A4 may look very similar to its predecessor, but now weighs up to 120 kilograms lighter. Power wise, Audi has claimed that engine output has increased 25%, but with a drop of 21% in fuel consumption.
The Audi A4, when launched here, should be available in both front wheel drive and Quattro configurations. While the regular A4s are expected, it would be a pleasant surprise if Audi Malaysia decides to introduce the hotter Audi S4 variant.
Audi R8
Audi launched their flagship supercar, the R8 nearly a year ago, but has yet to reached local shores. Despite the long wait, we expect the Audi R8 to be phenomenal. Under the hood of this mid-engined supercar lies a 5.2-litre V10 engine, just like the predecessor, but this time around, the engine will be available with two power outputs, one with 540 horsepower coupled with 540 Nm of torque, and another beefier engine with 610 horsepower with 560 Nm of torque.
The 7-speed S-tronic Audi R8, we believe, will be offered in the more powerful 610 horsepower form. Expect other performance Audis this year as well.
BMW
BMW G11/G12 7-Series
Laden with tech, such as automatic parking, the new BMW 7-Series will be coming to Malaysia real soon. The chassis is made out of a combination of carbon fibre that promises both rigidity and lightweight.
The BMW 7-Series will be competing against the likes of the popular Mercedes-Benz S400 h here in Malaysia, though it is unknown how many variants will BMW Malaysia take in.
Ford
Ford Everest
Sitting on the same platform as the highly-acclaimed Ford Ranger T6, Ford engineers have reworked most of the Everest’s suspension, giving the new SUV much needed comfort. Chris was very impressed with the new Everest when he went to Chiang Rai to try it out.
Looking at our forex, we do not expect the new Ford Everest to be cheap. The base variant of the Ford Everest is expected to have a starting price of almost RM200,000, with the Titanium variant expecting to fetch another RM20,000 above that!
Ford Everest first impressions
Ford Focus
We’ve reviewed the facelifted Ford Focus in Adelaide last year and found it to be a very desirable car. The facelift is more than skin deep, as Ford has thrown the non-turbo 2.0-litre Ti-VCT engine and six-speed PowerShift out, replacing the drivetrain with a 1.5-litre EcoBoost mill mated to a conventional six-speed SelectShift automatic.
The outgoing Ford Focus will set buyers back for RM131,888. From the looks of it, the new Focus could very well be priced within that region, if not more pricey.
Ford Mustang
Originally slated to debut late last year, the Ford Mustang should be arriving this year instead. Sime Daby Auto Connexion has indicated that both the 2.3-litre EcoBoost and 5.0-litre V8 variant of the Mustang will be made available, though both can only be had with a six-speed automatic.
In terms of pricing, it has been announced that the Mustang 2.3 will be priced between RM350,000 – RM400,000, while the Mustang 5.0 will cost around RM550,000 – RM600,000. Expect prices to be adjusted once the launch date arrives.
Honda
Honda BR-V
It is an open secret that Honda Malaysia will be taking the new Honda BR-V into Malaysia sometime in 2016. This new MPV was designed ground up in Indonesia, using the Honda Brio as its platform. Chris flew to Japan for the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show and had the chance to try the BR-V out, saying that it is the MP-V to wait for. Powering the Honda BR-V is a 1.5-litre SOHC i-VTEC engine, similar to what powers the City and Jazz here.
The BR-V is aimed squarely at the Nissan Grand Livina and Toyota Avanza, and may also serve as an upgrade for those coming from local marques. What about prices? Well, expect it to be very competitive 😉
Honda Civic
The tenth-generation Honda Civic has been spied a few times in Thailand, indicating that the model will be launched there soon. Honda is very proud of its new Civic, boldly claiming that it will be a segment leader. We predict that the new Civic will be well received by Malaysians.
Honda has dropped their 2.0-litre i-VTEC mill in favour of their new 1.5-litre turbocharged engine, and we expect Honda Malaysia to follow suit. The range-topping variant should be receiving the new engine mated to the company’s continuously variable transmission.
Honda City Facelift
2016 marks the second year of production for the Honda City, which made its official debut in early 2014. The facelift isn’t expected to arrive until the end of the year, and when that happens, we foresee minimal changes.
Honda Malaysia is likely to retain the City’s drivetrain, which consists of a 1.5-litre i-VTEC engine mated to a CVT, only updating the car’s styling. The facelift should also bring along some interior upgrades as well, we believe.
Honda Jazz Facelift
Similar to the Honda City, the Jazz is also expected to receive some styling updates later this year. Thus far, Honda Malaysia has updated the Jazz Grade S’ equipment and trim, as well as adding a new colour to their lineup.
Hyundai
Hyundai Elantra
Launched in South Korea in September 2015, the all-new Hyundai Elantra now sports the company’s Fluidic Sculpture 2.0. Gone are the swooping lines of the previous generation Elantra, now replaced with simpler design. The new Elantra also features class-leading features, like an Integrated Memory Seat (IMS) and Smart Trunk. In addition, new class-leading suite of safety technologies includes Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), High Beam Assist (HBA), Blind Spot Detection (BSD) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).
When the new Hyundai Elantra arrives here, we could see the arrival of the new 1.6-litre diesel VGT, as diesel vehicles slowly gain momentum locally. The diesel variant is paired exclusively to a new 7-speed DCT.
Infiniti
Infiniti Q30
Sitting on the same platform as the Mercedes-Benz A-Class, the new Infiniti Q30 is the company’s latest premium hatchback, aimed at the BMW 1-Series and the Volkswagen Golf. The new Infiniti also features the signature C-pillar kink that is present on most new Infiniti models.
Infiniti is offering the Q30 with a range of engines, including a 2.2-litre turbodiesel. European drivers get to choose between a six-speed manual or a seven-speed automatic, though we are expecting just the automatic here.
Jaguar
Jaguar XE
Jaguar’s latest compact executive sedan, the XE, is expected to be launch real soon. Their new sedan has its target set on the Audi A4, BMW 3-Series, and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class. While some may say that the styling is dull, we call it understated.
When the Jaguar XE arrives, expect both the 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four and 3.0-litre supercharged V6 to be made available. And yes, the R Sport will also be available for Malaysian buyers. The Jaguar XE is expected to retail for no less than RM400,000 for the base 2.0-litre turbo variant.
Mazda
Mazda 2 Diesel
During the launch of the Mazda 2 early last year, we noticed several units of a diesel-powered Mazda 2, and soon afterwards, we sampled one. With the availability of cleaner diesels, it makes perfect sense for Bermaz to introduce a diesel Mazda 2.
Similar to the petrol variant, the diesel Mazda 2 gets a 1.5-litre SkyActiv-D mill under the hood, mated to a six-speed automatic. While the petrol-powered Mazda 2 retails for RM85,466, the diesel variant is expected to cost very close to the RM100,000 mark. Yikes!
Mazda CX-3 CKD
During the press conference at the launch of the Mazda CX-3, Bermaz was asked about locally assembling the new compact SUV. The company is certainly interested to assemble the CX-3 locally, as that would bring the price to a more competitive level, as the CX-3 is currently assembled in Thailand.
Assembling the new CX-3 locally is feasible, as they currently assemble the Mazda 3 and CX-5 in Kulim. But how much can they shave off the RM135,143 price is yet to be seen.
Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz GLE, GLC, GLE Coupe
The trio is slated for a public launch at the Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (KLPAC) next Friday. All three SUVs could see at least one diesel variant made available, alongside the regular petrol variants.
Watch this spot closely.
Mitsubishi
Mitsubishi Lancer
The Mitsubishi Lancer may be an ageing model, but that has not stopped the company from facelifting it. The facelift brought along a revised front end, as well as an updated interior. The engine has not been touched, though the company claims that the INVECS-III CVT has been updated.
Considering that we get our units straight from Japan, it is only a matter of time before the facelift gets introduced here. Watch this space.
Mitsubishi Lancer facelift Australia launch
Mitsubishi Mirage Facelift
Update with a healthy dose of chrome on the outside, the facelifted Mitsubishi Mirage made a debut at the 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show in November. The facelift updates the Mirage’s exterior, from the front till the rear. LED DRLs are now standard on the new Mirage, while the interior gets some minor updates.
Looks aside, Mitsubishi has update the Mirage’s handling qualities with larger anti-roll bars up front. Apart from that, larger diameter disc brakes are fitted up front, while the rear gets slightly larger drum brakes.
Mitsubishi Outlander
Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia has officially teased the all-new Outlander, which definitely means that a local debut could happen any time soon. The new Outlander sports the company’s new Dynamic Shield up front, aided with a host of safety features.
The new Outlander is expected to feature 7 Airbags, Active Stability Control (ASC), Electric Tailgate, Sunroof, LED with integrated DRL and 18-inch Dual-tone alloy wheels.
Proton
Proton Saga Replacement (Saga-R)
Proton has set to revise their vehicle line up, which at the moment, is too fragmented. While the outgoing Saga is a B-segment sedan, the Saga-R is expected to rival the upcoming Axia Sedan in the A-segment market.
The new Saga-R, from what we understood, sits on the outgoing Saga’s platform, which has been lengthened and strengthened. Power is expected to come from the Proton Iriz’s Campro VVT engines, though a turbocharged engine could arrive at a later date.
Proton Persona Replacement (Persona-R)
Accompanying the Proton Iriz in the B-segment category is the new Persona-R. The new Persona-R sits on the Iriz’s platform, and borrows some of the hatchback’s design cues. And yes, Proton may have finally made the Preve their only C-segment sedan. The Inspira was discontinued last year, while the outgoing Persona is on its last leg.
Similar to the Saga-R, the new Persona-R is expected to utilize the company’s Campro VVT engines, though there could be a possibility of some newer engines later on.
Proton Perdana
Third up from our national car manufacturer is the new Proton Perdana. This new Perdana sits on the eighth-generation Honda Accord’s platform, though Proton has reworked most of the car’s exterior. It will be very much different compared to the current Proton Perdana, which is basically a rebadged Honda Accord.
Expect the Proton Perdana to be powered by both 2.0-litre i-VTEC and 2.4-litre i-VTEC engines, mated to a five-speed automatic. Prices are said to be in the region of a typical C-segment sedan.
Proton Preve Facelift
Now in its fourth year of production, the Proton Preve is in dire needs of an update. Sure, the Preve has been quietly updated with six airbags and TCS across the range some time back, but what the supposed global sedan needs is a quality interior and updated styling.
The Preve is expected to carry on with the 1.6-litre Campro Turbo engine, mated to the now infamous Punch CVT. That could change, as Proton is looking to work with Jatco for torque converter-based CVTs in future models.
Perodua
Perodua Axia Sedan
Codenamed D63D, the Perodua Axia Sedan is the company’s first foray into making a sedan. The Axia Sedan will be using the Axia as its base, but with a whole new body. Last we heard, tooling is already underway, and a prototype should be showing up in coming weeks.
Pictured above is the Perodua Buddyz Concept from the 2013 KL International Motor Show, and the Axia Sedan is unlikely to look like that.
Peugeot
Peugeot 408 Sedan
The updated Peugeot 408 Sedan was supposed to be launched late last year, but the weeks went past without any updates. But has development stopped? Far from it, as Naza is still in the midst of testing the 408 Sedan on our local roads.
Under the hood of the new Peugeot 408 Sedan, you should find the company’s tried-and-tested 1.6-litre THP engine mated to a six-speed automatic. The outgoing model featured a 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated engine, and we expect that engine to be dropped.
Subaru
Subaru Levorg
We tried out Subaru’s latest offering in Taiwan, and found it to be a very capable wagon. While the name might get some time getting used to, the rest of the car feels just familiar.
The all-new Subaru Levorg is expected to arrive in Malaysia some time in Q2 2016, with prices expected to reach the RM200,000 mark.
Toyota
Toyota Hilux/Innova/Fortuner
The trio has officially been launched in Indonesia last year, and the Hilux has reached Australian and Thai shores. With stiff competition in this segment, it is only a matter of time before the trio gets introduced locally, before cementing their success here.
All three models are available with both petrol and diesel engines, and it will be interesting to see if UMW Toyota introduces the diesel variant here.
Toyota Hilux, Toyota Innova, Toyota Fortuner
Toyota Vios
UMW Toyota’s best selling model is a little long in the tooth with its drivetrain combination, and seeing that the company’s range now features Dual-VVTi, it is expected of the Vios to receive some love. The updated Vios is also expected to receive some styling updates.
The Vios’s 1.5-litre 1NZ-FE engine, mated to the ancient 4-speed automatic has been around since the launch of the car. The facelift should bring along Toyota’s new Dual-VVTi engine, which has been available on the Chinese Toyota Vios since 2013.
Volkswagen
Volkswagen Jetta
First up is the Volkswagen Jetta, which has remained visually unchanged since its introduction in 2012. Our neighbours in Singapore has already received the facelifted Jetta. The facelift will update the Jetta’s dated halogen DRLs with more modern LED DRLs, as well as a revised front and rear end.
Volkswagen Passat
Apart from the facelifted Jetta, Volkswagen Malaysia is also expected to introduce the all-new B8 Passat, which now sits on the MQB platform. The new Passat has been caught undergoing tests, and VW boss Armin Keller has said that the new car is expected to arrive some time this year.
Volvo
Volvo S90
Volvo’s flagship sedan, the S90 was launched in December 2015. Sharing its Scalable Platform Architecture (SPA) with the new Volvo XC90, the S90 is laden with advanced safety features. The S90 also introduces a world first function to City Safety, a system capable of detecting large animals, night or day.
Volvo XC90 CKD
Volvo Cars Malaysia launched the highly-anticipated XC90 to the Malaysian market in early December 2015, with a sole T8 Plug-in Hybrid making up the whole range.
The company has one of the oldest assembling plants in the country, and the XC90 could very well be assembled there in due time. Perhaps with local assembly, the XC90’s price could see a drop from the current RM453,888.
