Refreshed Honda City unveiled

Honda Malaysia has unveiled a revamped Honda City which features several new enhancements and a five-year unlimted mileage warranty.

The popular sedan powered by a 1.5-litre i-VTEC engine mated to a five-speed automatic transmission, gets a new front chrome grille and bumper to improve the vehicle’s aerodynamics and to differentiate it from earlier versions.

Sold in the entry-level S and premium E grades, the City also gets an instrument panel ECO indicator that lights up when the vehicle is driven efficiently.

The instrument panel lighting is blue now instead of amber previously.

A new safety feature is ISOFIX child seat mounting points for rear seats in addition to the dual front airbags, anti-lock braking system with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist that are already available in the earlier variants.

The E grade has additional equipment over the S grade such as vehicle stability assist, paddle shifters, power retractable wing mirrors, wing mirrors with turn indicators, fog lamps and a size up 16-inch alloy wheels.

The E grade comes with an on-the-road with insurance price of RM90,980 while the S grade is cheaper at RM85,980.

The City is available in five colours - Sparkling Brown Metallic, Alabaster Silver Metallic, Polished Metal Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl and Taffeta White.

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2011 Honda CR-Z Hybrid 1.5-litre Launched in Malaysia

Recently, the long awaited 2011 Honda CR-Z made its debut and launched in Malaysia after the latest announcement in the Budget 2012 about the full exemption of import duty and excise duty for Hybrid models (for 2.0-litre or below) until December 2013. The CR-Z is the third hybrid vehicle that Honda introduces to Malaysians, after the Honda Civic Hybrid and Honda Insight.

Technically, the CR-Z is designed to deliver exceptional fuel economy while offering an entertaining and engaging driving experience. It combines an efficient 84-kilowatt (114PS) 1.5L SOHC i-VTEC engine, a 10-kilowatt (14PS) electric motor and a sophisticated Intelligent Power Unit (IPU).

Additionally, the All-New CR-Z is the first model to feature Honda’s versatile 3-Mode Drive System, which enables the driver to choose and switch modes seamlessly depending on their driving style and road situation. The three modes in the CR-Z alters the responses of the throttle, steering, idle stop timing, climate control and the level of assistance provided by the IMA Hybrid System.

In safety aspect, the All-New CR-Z has been rated one of Japan’s safest cars in 2010, having been awarded the 6-Star JNCAP rating. The CR-Z is equipped with Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) which offers a more stable and sturdier drive while the Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure enhances self-protection. The CR-Z also complies with Pedestrian Impact Requirements where head and chest injuries to the pedestrian are minimised during an accident.

The 2012 Honda CR-Z Hybrid 1.5-litre is selling at RM 115,000.00 on-the-road with insurance in Peninsular Malaysia

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Honda Malaysia announces recall for 2006-2008 Civic, 2006-2007 City and 2005-2007 Jazz

Today, Honda Motor Co. announced a global recall of more than 900,000 vehicles. In Malaysia, Civic of Year 2006-2008, City of Year 2006-2007 and Jazz of Year 2005-2007 will be recall under this product update campaign. According to the Japanese automaker, the campaign aims to implement preventive measures against undesired technical issues in the affected units.

Back in July, Honda Malaysia had recalled the Stream of Year 2008-2010. Now, it follow by 3 more models.

“Honda Malaysia would like to apologize to all customers for the inconvenience caused. The campaign aims to implement a few preventive measures against technical failure. This is an early call for inspection and replacement, of which we believe could sustain the best product performance for customers in spite of the technical irregularities,” said Yoichiro Ueno, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Honda Malaysia.

For 2006-2008 Civic, it is reported that affected units experienced oil leakage from the power steering feed hose, caused by deterioration from running in hot and humid weather. Though the affected units may not cause serious safety issues, the possibility of a technical breakdown might show in the future. Honda Malaysia will change the rubber material for the power steering feed hose to improve its heat resistance. The campaign expects to involve 16,537 units of 2006-2008 Civic.

On the other hand, we are unable to confirm whether the 2007-2008 Civic Type R which is fully imported from Japan will be recall under the same campaign. Anyway, our producer will be contacting Honda Malaysia for further clarification on this.

2006-2007 City and 2005-2007 Jazz are prone to possible failure of its power window master switch, which under certain conditions, could cause a minor short-circuit resulting in a burnt smell. Honda Malaysia will change all the affected units with a counter measure power window switch. The product update campaign will involve 20,949 units of 2006-2007 City and 2,970 units of 2005-2007 Jazz.

Honda Malaysia would like to assure its customers that all current selling models are not affected. Necessary replacement will be carried out when the parts are ready. All parts and labour charges incurred in the replacement work will be borne by Honda Malaysia.

For more information and assistance regarding this campaign, you can call 1-800-88-2020 or visit any authorised Honda dealer.

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Honda Resumes Taking INSIGHT Orders

Honda Insight

KUALA LUMPUR: Honda Malaysia Sdn Bhd's Alor Gajah plant will resume full production on Aug 1, and will try to increase production units by operating additional hours to catch up with the shortage of supply from April through July.

The company has also started accepting new bookings of the Insight hybrid from Wednesday.

Honda Malaysia managing director and CEO Yoichiro Ueno said: "Honda associates in Japan have worked tirelessly with our suppliers since the disaster in March to recover the supply of component parts from Japan.

"Hence, we are pleased to announce that we are be able to resume full production much earlier than previously expected."

Insight bookings were suspended on April 7 following a parts shortage in the aftermath of Japan quake and tsunami.

All other Honda models are not effected and orders can be placed at any authorised Honda dealers nationwide.

-Bernama

Honda Insight

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2012 Honda Civic

That's right, this is the 2012 Honda Civic in all its glory. Though it might be difficult to tell with just a casual glance, this Civic is brand-new, sharing practically nothing but its moniker with the previous generation. As much as we may have liked some additional visual flair, it seems Honda is being conservative and aiming right for the heart of the market with five separate and distinct flavors of its compact offering, each of which offers a notable improvement in fuel efficiency.

We'll start with the all-new HF model, which, as you may have guessed, is the most fuel efficient of the non-hybridized Civics that will be available in the United States. Honda expects the HF, with its 1.8-liter i-VTEC engine, to earn EPA-estimated fuel economy of 41 miles per gallon on the highway. The HF will share its aerodynamics package with the returing Civic Hybrid, which manages a combined rating of 45 mpg (a four-mpg improvement over the outgoing Civic Hybrid) thanks to its lithium-ion battery – a Honda-first – and 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine and CVT transmission. There's also a natural gas-powered Civic GX.

While those two models aim for the ultimate in fuel efficiency, we imagine that the standard Sedan and Coupe models will make up the bulk of sales. Buyers will find a 1.8-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine underhood with 140 horsepower that scores an EPA-estimated 39 mpg on the highway (a three-mpg improvement over the last Civic). The Civic soldiers on with a five-speed automatic at a time when most of its competitors are packing six ratios.

And then, of course, there's the sporty Si model. As the Civic that's meant to steal the hearts of performance lovers, it's nice to see a new 2.4-liter powerplant with 200 horsepower mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. Perhaps more importantly, the larger mill pumps out 170 pound-feet of torque, a 22-percent increase over the outgoing twist-starved Si. All that and an additional two mpg on the highway (31 mpg estimated) ought to make for a reasonably fun everyday commuter.

And now to the styling. We'll start off on a positive note: the 2012 Honda Civic is not ugly. Problem is, it's also not hugely attractive. In fact, *yawn* it's not really anything. Both inside and out, this latest Civic is barely distinguishable from the previous generation, and as competitors continue pushing their design envelope forward, well... we really expect more these days. Let's hope the driving dynamics live up to our lofty expectations, and let's also hope that Honda accidentally left the shipping blocks in the cars it used for photography – particularly the Si models – or the new model looks a bit high-riding.

In any case, you don't have to take our word for it. See the 2012 Civic for yourself in our high-res image gallery below and feel free to peruse the full press release after the break.

Source: Honda

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Honda Accord 2011 - Upgraded Facelift

Honda Accord 2011

PETALING JAYA: The Honda Accord is dressed up differently for 2011.

Here are briefly the changes:

> Chrome front grill and bumper;

> Front corner sensors;

> Rear chrome trunk lid;

> Cabin tweaks such as thicker floor mat for improved insulation and leather steering wheel for VTi-L and VTi;

> 17” alloy wheel design (2.4-litre VTi-L only)
and;

> Jack-knife key

The three variants are still sold at the same prices with the 2.0-litre VTi at RM142,800; 2.0-litre VTi-L at RM149,800; and 2.4-litre VTi-L at RM172,800.

The Accord is available in five colours with Celestial Blue Metallic being new. Other existing hues are Taffeta White, Alabaster Silver Metallic, Polished Metal Metallic and Crystal Black Pearl.

Honda Malaysia is going on a photography exhibition tour with the Accord from April 13 covering Penang, Petaling Jaya, Subang and Johor Baru. Go to Honda Malaysia site for details.

Honda Accord 2011

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All-New Honda INSIGHT was Unveiled

Honda Insight

Against general perceptions that hybrid cars are not widely accepted or attainable due to their perceived impractical designs or expensive price tags, Honda Malaysia Sdn Bhd introduced the All-New Insight to the Malaysia market at the Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show 2010 (KLIMS 2010). This newly launched entry hybrid model broke new grounds with its combination of appealing design and practical functions, allowing more Malaysians who desire to adopt an eco-friendly lifestyle to do so effortlessly without compromising on style, practicality and the fun of driving.

The resulting concept is a compact 5-door hatchback entry hybrid model that features an aerodynamic shape exterior inspired by the Aero Athlete design concept. The sharp wedge shaped body that ends with an aero tail sparks off an athletic motion that is both exciting and functional. The overall athletic feel is further enhanced by muscular yet elegant bodylines that flex a well-defined dynamic tension. Along with an advanced and futuristic interior design, it serves well as a ride that is both fun-to-drive and practical.

Technically, the All-New Insight is created to cater for exceptional fuel economy. It is powered by Honda’s new generation of Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) System that ingeniously recaptures and stores kinetic energy from vehicle braking and deceleration, and supplies additional power for acceleration when needed. It consists of a 65-kilowatt (88PS) 1.3liter SOHC i-VTEC engine, a 10-kilowatt (14PS) electric motor and a newly improved Intelligent Power Unit (IPU) that has been made 19% more compact and 28% lighter in size for the All-New Insight. This smaller and more compact IPU has been relocated under the floor of the cargo area to create a 400-litre trunk space that could accommodate up to 3 golf bags; and a 60:40 split backseat that can be folded down flat to give a 584-litre flat cargo load area.
Its continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) has been further enhanced to provide a smoother drive with high torque for rapid performance, a fluid uphill drive, better engine braking and quieter ride.

To further guide owners to realize the full benefits of Insight, it features a new interactive, driver-focused fuel economy assist technology called the Ecological Drive Assist System (Eco Assist). It combines multiple functions: a driver-activated ECON mode (stands for Effective Control) that optimizes control of the CVT, engine and related powertrain components to further improve vehicle fuel efficiency; a driver feedback function that uses an innovative speedometer display with changing background colours to provide real-time guidance to the driver on achieving higher fuel efficiency; and a unique fuel-economy scoring function using a plant-leaf graphic to provide feedback to the driver on current-trip driving efficiency and lifetime fuel-efficient driving performance.

In terms of safety standard, the All-New Insight has obtained a 6-star JNCAP safety rating for driver and 5-star JNCAP safety rating for passengers.

In Malaysia, the All-New Insight is targeted at eco-oriented individuals who believe in doing their part to protect the earth for future generations. It is also intended for independent and image conscious young professionals who are aware of eco issues, and would consider using environmentally friendly products if they offer great value with practicality and style.

The All-New Insight comes in four colours -- Premium White Pearl; Dyno Blue Pearl II; Alabaster Silver Metallic; and Crystal Black Pearl.

Honda Insight

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Honda Civic Mugen RR - Review The Performance

Honda Civic Mugen RR

The Honda Civic Mugen RR is another great performance model with a limited build of only three hundred cars. All three hundred cars sold out in minutes of being released. It is said to be the ultimate Civic, relying on its speed and stylish nature for a front wheel drive car. Because of the lighter and faster design, the Mugen RR may well become the best front wheel drive performance car on the market.

Mugen, the Japanese company used their knowledge of racing mechanics while designing this car. Car Enthusiast called it the “best factory tuned Honda that money can buy.” The Honda Civic Mugen RR is said to be much like the street legal version of the Super Taikyu Championship Civics.

The added speed is tribute to the extra power the Mugen RR was endowed with. In comparison to the Civic R, the horsepower is increased, the chassis is sharper and the weight reduced. The engine can easily get up to 160km per hour. The RR not only has a powerful engine, but also has a dual exhaust system that lets you know when it’s coming.

The RR is ten kilograms lighter than the R because of the expensive, unique carbon fiber body parts, including the front bumper and spoiler. The suspension alterations also lowered the ride height. From the exterior, the RR does not differ much from the basic R model. The Mugen RR has a wider body, hood air ducts, a new front grill and spoiler and eighteen inch black rims, with specially designed Potenza RE070 tires, which contribute to the great look of the exterior of the RR model.

When one looks at the numbers on paper, the RR doesn't seem too impressive. Since this car is front wheel drive, the front wheels both steer and drive the car. The Mugen RR was made more aerodynamic than RR model, giving the car a much faster response at the wheel.

The interior is more personalized, and looks more like the interior of an real race car. The Alcantara carbon covered sports seats replace the bucket seats in the R model, and they require you to be smaller and in good physical stature to sit comfortably. The radio has been replaced with oil and water temperature and pressure gages. The pedals are modified for the driver, and a personalized plaque with the car number is added to the shifter column.

The best thing about the RR model is the fine tuned steering. Every move is precise, and with each corner taken, the RR provides the driver with precision and confidence. If you’re looking for a sporty, fast car for the right price, sporty look, great performance, exclusivity and exceptional handling, then the Honda Civic Mugen RR is right up your alley. Although it lacks security equipment and can be uncomfortable inside, the attention to racing detail by Mugen makes the Honda Civic Mugen RR tops many people’s wish lists.

Honda Civic Mugen RR

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Honda CR-Z launched in 3-D

NEW YORK: The Honda CR-Z sport hybrid coupe was launched to great fanfare in New York's Times Square yesterday. It was also the first time a car launch used 3-D technology.

Honda will be screening 3-D CR-Z commercial footage on the Times Square HD Spectacolor screen, located on Broadway between 46th and 47th Street.

Members of the public will receive special glasses to view the TV footage, which will run from 10am (10pm in Malaysia) to 6pm (6am today in Malaysia). They will also be able to interact with the car.

"To bring attention to the duality of sport and hybrid that the CR-Z offers, the advertising campaign relies on a bevy of nontraditional elements—like 3-D technology—to get the attention of young, potential CR-Z buyers," said American Honda Motor Co, Inc senior manager of national advertising Tom Peyton.

"This 3-D experience in Times Square uniquely integrates advertising, gaming and music into a single, memorable event."

To liven up the event even more, Sony will provide 3-D Gran Turismo 5 racing simulators that will feature the CR-Z. Honda is sponsoring a performance by hip-hop trio, N.E.R.D and Maxim Magazine models will distribute copies of their 3-D October issue.

Source: http://www.star-monitoring.com/

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Honda Civic 1.8 S-L Upgrade With Additional Accessories

Honda Civic 1.8 S-L

Honda Malaysia has added a ‘luxury’ version to its Civic line-up in the form of the Civic 1.8S-L which offers extra quality features that are expected to appeal to the value-driven customer. Priced at RM119,980 (with insurance), the new Civic version is expected to account for 30% of Civic sales which are around 750 units a month.

The added features are cruise control, audio switches on the steering wheel, door mirror with side turn, metallic meter side panel and chrome outer handle. This new version also gets plush leather upholstery as standard.

Colour choices are the same as the other Civics, ie Taffeta White, Crystal Black Pearl, Alabaster Silver Metallic, Sparkle Gray Pearl and Urban Titanium.

Commenting about the new version, Toru Takahashi, Managing Director & CEO of Honda Malaysia said: “Ever since the launch of the 8th Generation Civic in 2006, we have continuously improved the model based on customer feedback that we received. With each improvement and enhancement, Honda Malaysia seeks to meet the expectations of our customers. The new Civic 1.8S-L is no different. Ultimately, our aim is to achieve No. 1 in Customer Satisfaction and we will continue to offer products of the highest quality at reasonable prices.”

Source : motor-trader.com.my

Honda Civic 1.8 S-L

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2011 Honda CR-Z Hybrid Review

2011 Honda CR-Z Hybrid

The Honda CR-Z, a two-passenger, gasoline-electric hybrid car with a sporty bent, goes on sale this fall (third quarter 2010) in U.S.

The CR-Z is not a sports car and will not replace the Honda S2000 that was discontinued in 2009. Rather, it's the descendant-apparent to Honda's CRX of 20 years ago.

CR-Z (Compact Renaissance Zero, among the more believable interpretations) is based loosely on an existing Honda small-car platform. Relative to the subcompact Honda Fit, the CR-Z is shorter and five inches lower but wider, lending a hint of low and wide that characterizes sports cars.

A four-cylinder gasoline engine, probably an advanced 1.5-liter tuned to 115-120 hp, and a small electric motor (approximately 13 hp/55 lb-ft) will use the integrated motor assist (IMA) architecture of other Honda hybrids, sandwiching the electric motor between the gas engine and the transmission. The CR-Z is the first hybrid to use a six-speed manual gearbox, though Honda has experience with manual hybrids in the previous Civic and knows how to build a good shifter.

CR-Z's mission is to make a fun-to-drive, economical, clean car with modern conveniences and safety equipment requirements. That's a tall order, but Honda's Insight hybrid will rotate in a corner if you push it. The original Honda CRX, the Mazda Miata and VW GTI have shown one doesn't need huge power and speed to make a car that's thoroughly enjoyable to drive.

An inverted gull wing lower front spoiler and angular light housings fit right into Honda family styling cues, giving a clean leading edge to a stocky wedge, and triangular rear side windows and wraparound taillights make the rear pillar the shape of a boat's radar arch. As on the Honda Insight the rear window is split between the fastback on top and a vertical panel above the rear bumper.

Expect an instrument panel with central tachometer and inset digital speedometer framed by graphics for engine info, warning lights and economy data. Most controls will be on stubby pods on the sides of that panel or the multifunction steering wheel, for an uncluttered dash. Despite the diminutive fastback styling, Honda's clever packaging should allow enough cargo space to hold some overnight bags, if not the ubiquitous two sets of golf clubs.

2011 Honda CR-Z Hybrid

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Honda Malaysia Racing Readies For Merdeka Millennium Endurance (MME)

The Honda Malaysia Racing Team (HMRT) will return to the Sepang International Circuit for the eighth time on August 8 to participate in the 11th Merdeka Millennium Endurance (MME) Race. The MME race is hailed as Asia’s Biggest Race and despite being just 12 hours long, the tropical heat and humidity makes it one of the most challenging and demanding endurance race for cars, drivers and the teams.

Unlike the earlier years when the team had a lot of assistance and supervision from the Mugen team from Japan, HMRT today has the confidence to manage on their own. In fact, this has been the ultimate objective of HMRT – to train and build up the skills of local talents to thrive in the motorsports and automotive arena.

The team has already completed its first round of testing at the circuit and is in high spirits, looking forward to the grueling race which will start at midnight. The Honda Civic Type R will again be used and driven by Eddie Lew Kar Wai, Aaron Lim and Rueben Wong. The trio is aiming for success and is ready to overcome all obstacles this year despite the tighter rules with strict conformity to FIA regulations.

Source : Motortrader.com.my

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Honda FREED Coming to Malaysia in Quater 2 2010

Honda’s offering is a model called the Freed which was launched in Japan in May 2008. It was conceived to be a 'lifestyle MPV’ and not just a people-mover so various features were included to meet the needs of diverse activities which the new generation family has. Honda has just announced that the Freed is 100% coming to Malaysia, set for a launch in Q2 this year to be exact. It will come in as a CBU import from Indonesia. Honda also highlights that the Freed will be made distinguishable from other local MPV’s by its unparalleled features that include an automatic sliding door and a flat-floor walk-through cabin among others.

The Honda Freed is the latest and probably the longest wheelbase addition to the Global Small Platform which underpins cars such as the Honda Jazz. There are various seating configurations – a 5-seater 2-3 config as well as triple row configs such as 2-3-3, 2-2-3 with individual 2nd row seats, and 2-2-2 with individual seats for everyone. We’ll have to wait until the launch to find out what kind of seat configuration we’ll get. Only one engine is available for the Freed sold in ASEAN and that is the proven 1.5-litre i-VTEC unit that powers the Jazz and City. The engine has a drive-by-wire throttle and a torque boost resonator. It also comes with a 5-speed automatic transmission, like the other models (though the JDM version uses a CVT) which incorporates an Active Lock-Up system for enhanced responsiveness.

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