Sunday August 9, 2009
Facelifts and fuel-savers
The local automotive scene is abuzz with the launch of fiv e models in quick succession.
Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius’ curved dashboard has a futuristic-looking electronic instrument panel. TOUTED as the world’s most advanced petrol/electric hybrid car, the Toyota Prius is finally in Malaysia. The third generation of the world’s best-selling hybrid model comes with a 1.8-litre 98bhp engine and a 90hp electric motor for an outstanding fuel consumption of 4.1 litres per 100km – which is easily better than that of much smaller hatchbacks.
Roughly the size of a Toyota Altis, the Prius’ petrol engine and electric motor combination promises the performance of a 2.4-litre sedan.
Besides a sporty look, the hybrid’s sleek shape also means low wind resistance for improved fuel economy and quieter high-speed cruising.
Inside, the Prius is roomy and comfortable enough for five persons. Its main feature is a curved dashboard that comes with a futuristic-looking electronic instrument panel.
The Toyota Hybrid System allows the Prius to run on petrol or battery power, or a combination of both for optimum performance and fuel efficiency. In fact, the vehicle can be driven on full electric power for short distances at speeds below 45km/h for zero fuel consumption.
Although most hybrid cars replenish their batteries through regenerative braking, the Prius goes one step up as it can recharge its own hybrid nickel metal hydride battery while on the move.
For a car that was once geared for the environmentally conscious motorist, the Prius, with its on-the-road-plus-insurance price of RM175,000, has moved into mainstream motoring.
Nissan 370Z
EASILY one of Nissan’s most iconic sports cars, this latest generation of the Z-Car promises enthusiasts higher levels of performance and driving pleasure, packed with good looks.
With its trademark long nose and coupe silhouette, the new 370Z cuts a muscular and athletic stance, with performance to match. Its boomerang-shaped head and tail lights are styled to blend gracefully with the car’s taut bodyline.
Powering the vehicle is a 3.7-litre V6 block from Nissan’s award-winning VQ series of engine, which produces 333bhp and 363Nm for blistering acceleration from rest to 100kph in 4.9 seconds.
The Nissan 370Z looks like a real sport Local Nissan distributor Edaran Tan Chong Motor is offering two transmission choices for the 370Z - a seven-speed automatic with paddle shifters and a six-speed manual with the world’s first SyncroRev Match control system, which automatically controls the throttle to simulate heel and toe braking and shifting technique.
Interior-wise, the features have been refined. You find specially developed suede-like upholstery and soft-touch materials for the centre cluster.
Price starts from RM354,400, excluding road tax, insurance and registration.
Nissan Murano
THE latest Nissan Murano reprises the familiar shape of the outgoing model, but gets a sharper nose and revised headlight housing with projector lights for a more aggressive frontal look.
Its all-leather seats and high-class interior promise to make it an outstanding vehicle in the premium sports utility vehicle segment.
As the car is powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine with 260bhp mated to a Xtronic CVT (continuously variable transmission), Murano owners can expect exhilarating performance in silky smooth fashion.
Its all mode 4×4-i all-wheel drive system and vehicle dynamic control were developed for smooth cornering and stable handling on slippery road surfaces. Other features include memory seats, dual glass sunroof, power tail gate and rear view camera.
Price starts from RM318,200, excluding road tax, insurance and registration. The Murano and 370Z will be available for viewing at key Edaran Tan Chong Motor showrooms from Aug 19.
Mitsubishi Grandis
IF you are looking for a multi-purpose vehicle that can carry seven comfortably, the facelifted-Mitsubishi Grandis may be just it.
New side skirts and bodykit extensions on the front and rear bumpers transform the Grandis into one sporty-looking family cruiser. Seats, door inserts, steering wheel and gear knob are black leather now for an up-market and plush feel.
Smooth mover, that’s the Mitsubishi Lancer For entertainment during long, outstation trips, a new 6.1-inch Kenwood DVD receiver with touch screen interface and multi-audio/video formats, and USB iPod and Bluetooth compatibility comes standard.
This large MPV’s 2.4-litre MIVEC engine with 165bhp and a four-speed INVECS-II automatic transmission with sports mode promises ample cruising performance.
Priced at RM164,980 OTR with insurance, features include dual front airbags, anti-lock braking system with electronic brakeforce distribution, and separate air conditioner blower for rear passengers.
Mitsubishi Lancer GT
FOR its facelift, the Mitsubishi Lancer GT got a revised bumper and a larger grille chrome outline that is strikingly similar to that of its high-performance Lancer Evolution sibling. At the rear, tail lights come in clear transparent housings to enhance its sporty look.
The Lancer reuses the same 2.0-litre MIVEC all-aluminium engine which produces 155bhp, while the INVECS-III CVT with intelligent programming promises smoother shifting compared with a conventional automatic transmission.
Paddle shifters allow drivers to manually choose their gear ratios without taking their hands off the steering wheel, in the style of Formula 1 race cars.
Features include dual front airbags, anti-lock braking system with electronic brakeforce distribution, brake assist and 18-inch wheels.
The latest model is available in white, mica black and metallic red. For a 2.0-litre sports sedan, the Lancer is attractively priced at RM123,980 OTR, with insurance.
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