2011 Buick MPV

Above about Buick MPV.

The Buick VP is almost a staple of Chinese commercial practices, which Ferries customers from one office to another luxury reasonable, comfortable, look good, but it seems that only comes in blue and silver. 2011 Buick VP is a step in the square VP 2009 with a more rounded and a better future dashboard, the 2011 version is almost the rule in the MPV sector of chicken again.

Spy photos show that the VP has stayed fairly close to its source of Business concept car we saw in Shanghai Motor Show earlier this year, likely launched by mid 2010. Spy photos also inject script VP, which also recalls the concept. Central to the VP is likely to take by 2.4 Lacrosse, although there is the possibility that the 2.0T is taken from the Buick king 2.0T.

2009 sales target of Perodua on track to achive

Above about sales target of Perodua.

RAWANG: Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Sdn Bhd (Perodua) is on track to sell 158,000 vehicles this year despite the current economic downturn, says managing director Syed Hafiz Syed Abu Bakar.

For the first-half year, Perodua sold 77,000 units (or 49%) of its 2009 sales target.

“We expect better sales in the second half of the year, especially with the festive season like Hari Raya when sales usually pick up,” he said at the Perodua Kancil phase-out and Viva 660 BX (Basic) line-off ceremony yesterday.

“In November, we will also launch our multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) and we will start accepting bookings from October.”

Syed Hafiz said the impact of the Government’s stimulus package would be more visible in the second half.

He said the low interest rates and strong financial system in Malaysia would make for a conducive environment for buying cars.

“Things are getting better for the local automotive industry,” he said.

Perodua yesterday rolled out its final Kancil, after 15 years of production. Since its launch in August 1994, 722,223 units have been produced and 708,000 units sold in Malaysia.

Syed Hafiz said the phasing out of the Kancil was a long time coming, in light of the technological advancements that were made since the car was introduced.

Initially, an average of 4,000 units were sold monthly. In October 2002, the company registered its highest sales with 7,700 units.

Its best seller now is the Perodua Myvi, which accounts for about 53% of total sales, followed by Viva with 42%. Lately, Kancil averaged monthly sales between 500 and 800 units.

“The compact wonder had a very good run but all good things must come to an end,” Syed Hafiz said.

Perodua also launched its Viva 660 BX (Basic) yesterday, which will be its new entry-level vehicle and the “replacement car” for Kancil.

The new Viva is available in three colours and costs RM25,300 (on-the-road, with insurance) and only available in manual transmission. Syed Hafiz said he was optimistic about the response for the new Viva.

On the Perodua MPV, he hinted that it would be priced between RM56,000 and RM67,000, available in both manual and automatic transmission and powered by a 1.5-litre engine.

The MPV would be targeted at both first-time buyers and “individuals with families,” he said, adding: “It is a car when you want it and an MPV when you need it.”

Popular Mazda mini MPV

Here's about Mazda mini MPV.

In Japan, the Mazda MPV is known, marketed, and sold as the Efini MPV. This vehicle first made its way to public knowledge in 1989. It was constructed to be a rear wheel drive vehicle. Later on in 2000, it came back with a more modern front wheel drive. Originally, the Mazda MPV was designed in its every minute detail as a minivan. This was destined to be sold to the American market.

The Mazda MPV was first constructed using Mazda’s best platform that time. The company used the Mazda 929’s HC to be able to develop and start out the Mazda MPV’s LV platform. Later on in the design and construction process for this vehicle, the Mazda MPV was equipped with a V6 engine and an optional all wheel drive. This vehicle features traditional hinged doors instead of the sliding rear doors.

Making waves with the press, the Mazda MPV then earned its way to being named a part of the Car and Driver magazine’s Ten Best list for two consecutive years – 1990 and 1991. This magazine also featured the Mazda MPV as one of their “vehicles for the coming (fuel) crisis”. However, on the other hand, the Mazda MPV made a big unwanted splash with crash testers. Out of the four stars that a vehicle could receive from the Australian ANCAP crash test, the Mazda MPV only received one little star. As for the American IIHS crash tests, the vehicle received a poor “Marginal” rating. The sales for this vehicle went really well however it rapidly declined come the period when other automobile manufacturers started constructing and introducing to the market all wheel drivers and V6 engines.

In 1996, this vehicle underwent a refreshing. The I4 engine went into retirement and it was replaced with a similar engine – a 2.5 liter unit. Come the year 2000, the Mazda MPV came with a front wheel drive LW platform that was based on the Mazda 626. This set of Mazda MPVs was considered to be the second in this model’s generation. It came this time to be more traditional than the first batch. It held sliding rear doors and a front wheel drive. However, what was different for this generation includes a rear seat that folds flat into the floor and rear door windows that are rolled down. In 2002, the changes for the vehicle included a change in power by using the Mazda AJ 3.0 liter V6 engine along with a 5-speed automatic transmission. This now has the capacity to produce 200 horsepower and 200 pound feet of torque. Other than that, upgrades included a larger grille that sported a single chrome bar at the top, a more aggressive look and new headlights and tail lights.

Mini-MPV from Kia

Above about mini MPV from Kia.

Kia will show off a new mini-MPV concept at Geneva, and this is the first teaser image, which gives you a pretty good idea of what to expect

Kia's Geneva motor show star will be a mini-MPV concept, which previews a new Vauxhall Meriva, Honda Jazz and Nissan Note rival.

The Korean manufacturer has released this teaser, along with some pretty vague information, ahead of the car's unveiling at Geneva in March.

Apparently, Kia reckons that its new MPV will bring "style and cool to what is currently a bland segment of the new car market."

Well, if you're paying Peter Schreyer, the man who designed the Audi TT, to be your chief stylist, then at least you should put him to work occasionally.

The concept is likely to be called the YN for now, but the production version will probably get some outrageous name fitting for the brand that brought us the Cee'd and the Soul.

Talking of the Soul, that car's plaform underpins this new concept too, so expect the YN to be powered by the same competent diesel and weedy petrols as that car.

Exora sales still strong

Above about Exora sales.

The order book for Proton Holdings Bhd’s MPV model, the Exora, is strong at the moment with a backlog of up to three to four months even at a production rate of 3,300 units per month.

Managing director Datuk Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohamed said he thought there was more stability in its distribution.

“Of course it is supported by the Exora … we are very thankful for the support of the Malaysian public,” he told reporters at Invest Malaysia 2009 yesterday.

“So, going forward, as long as we can maintain a very healthy order bank (or book) and continue with what we are doing, such as the cost measures, for example, I think the company will be in a better position.”

Referring to Proton’s recent Master Dealership Agreement with Edaran Otomobil Nasional Bhd, which was announced on May 8, Syed Zainal said: “By controlling the dealers, we will make the dealers more efficient.

“From an efficiency point of view, our distribution system will be much better, which means maybe margins can be improved and revenue further enhanced.”

He added: “These are the opportunities that we can look forward to, at least for this financial year (ending March 31, 2010).”

However, it was still too early to say if the national carmaker would return to the black this year, he said, adding: “The only thing I can say is that it (the first quarter ended June 30) will be an improvement over the last quarter.”

At present, there were 5,000 Exora MPVs registered in the market with pending orders for about 14,000 vehicles.

On expected developments in new variants of Exora models, he said that having first introduced the automatic model of the MPV to the market, “it was only a matter of time” before Proton introduced a manual model.

He said the manual model could be expected this year.

Proton was also planning to launch the Exora in Jakarta on July 24 at the International Motor Show.

This was an important move for the company, because in the 1½ to two years it had been in the country it only had a small presence in the Indonesian market dominated by MPVs, Syed Zainal said.

On foreign competition to Proton, both locally and overseas, he said: “I think competition is healthy. We have to strategise our plans and others – Toyota and Nissan – would also strategise their plans.

“So, it is something I think we should not be totally worried about.”

This year Proton will focus mainly on the Asean market, including “Singapore,” soon.

Next year, the company will focus on other markets, like the Middle East, and also try to do the CKD (completely knocked-down) assembly in China and other markets.

Apart from Indonesia, the company plans to introduce the Exora to Thailand in November.

Naza confident selling 25 Ferrari this year

Here's about Naza selling 25 Ferrari.

NAZA Italia Sdn Bhd is confident of selling 25 Ferrari units this year, with the bulk of the contribution coming from the newly launched California model.

Its group executive chairman and chief executive officer SM Faisal SM Nasimuddin said the company had secured seven orders for the California model with the first delivery expected within this month.

"We are positive the Ferrari California will be the preferred model for new Ferrari owners," he told reporters at the the launch of the new Ferrari model in Petaling Jaya today.

The new model, with a price tag starting from RM1.7 million, joined Ferrari's eight-cylinder range which is made up mostly of high performance cars, SM Faisal said.

The automotive industry is improving as market sentiment is better than end of last year," he said, adding that many customers had started asking about the new model.

The California model's engine has a total displacement of 4,300cc and a maximum power output of 460hp/338kW at 7,750rpm. It takes less than four seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h and is able to deliver a blistering 310km/h top speed.

Opel Meriva compact MPV

Above about Opel Meriva compact MPV.

GM’s next-generation Opel Meriva compact MPV has been caught undergoing testing once gain. Though it remains in full camouflage, many details are still discernible, including the overall shape, which remains close to the original Meriva concept from last year's Geneva Motor Show.

A very carefully placed extra segment of cladding appears to be hiding one of the most controversial lements of the concept’s design: the rear-window ‘kink’. The front door’s handle and the general construction of the doors and rubber strips indicate the rear-opening rear doors of the concept are gone. The suicide door configuration makes for better display in a car show booth, but is both inconvenient and hard to get past the legal department in the real world.

The simple and attractive front fascia, minimalist outlines, and overall configuration remain very close to the concept’s design, however. Small detail differences include the addition of a tailpipe (hidden on the concept) and the removal of the rear roof spoiler and addition of an antenna in its place.

The treatment of the rear windows and rear hatch area seem to indicate both the angular upsweep before the C-pillar and the hourglass-shaped rear hatch will carry over into production. The tail lights, though heavily camouflaged, carry a hint of the outline of the concept’s large and stylistic units as well.

The new Meriva is expected to make its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September and should be sale across Europe by the end of the year.

New Models of Hyundai

Here' about new model of Hyundai.

Hyundai plans to introduce i30 based mini MPV in late 2010 along with new Sonata/i40, new i20 mini MPV model and Veloster sports car scheduled for 2011, according to hyundai-blog.
The all-new 2011 Hyundai i20 mini MPV will be in a very close relationship with the upcoming Kia YN minivan that made its first public appearance at Geneva auto show earlier this year and received rave reviews from public and automotive media thanks to its really attractive exterior design.
Kia YN mini MPV has been penned by European team of designers under the Peter Schreyer guidance. Peter Schreyer is a famous car designer who worked for Audi for more than 25 years and designed the legendary Audi TT and many other attractive cars, including VW Golf GTI V.
2011 Hyundai i20 mini MPV
Responsible to give the new Hyundai i20 mini MPV a “soul” will be Hyundai designers working at Hyundais European design centre in Russelsheim (Germany). They will be responsible to give the vehicle a unique exterior and interior look to differentiate it from its Kia counterpart as well as make it look attractive when standing side by side with other rivals.
2010 Hyundai i30 MPV
In addition to the new i20 mini MPV, Hyundai has also announced it plans to launch another MPV model in Europe. The second MPV will be slightly larger than the i20 mini MPV and will be based on Hyundai i30. The i30 MPV will be 4.48m long, 1.80 wide and will measure 1.61m in height. It will compete head to head against established brands such as Renault Scenic, Opel Zafira, Ford C-Max and Toyota Verso. In the mean time, Hyundai will also unveil an i30 facelift.

2010 Hyundai Tucson / ix35
Hyundai will continue a series of debuts with new Tucson, known also as Hyundai ix35 in Europe. The model has been first introduced as an ix-onic crossover concept. We have already seen the body shell of the production ready 2010 Tucson and from the image it was evident that the new Tucson/ix35 will stay very close to the concept.
2011 Hyundai Sonata / i40
Hyundai also plans to roll out the long anticipated Sonata sedan and wagon in Europe sold under the i40 name. First to hit the market will be a wagon variant of i40, while approximately six month later the Korean carmaker will also introduce a sedan variant. The new i40 will replace the current generation Sonata sedan, which wasnt particularly successful in Europe.
The all-new Sonata will feature more modern design and will have a modern interior built from top quality materials. It will also be equipped with the latest powertrain technology including a brand-new six-speed automatic transmission and a range of new diesel and gasoline engines.
According to Hyundai, Sonata/i40 will be the first Hyundai vehicle to be equipped with an updated 2.4L Theta engine that will feature GDI (gasoline direct injection) technology, which will bring the power numbers from 174 hp to 200 horsepower! New Sonata will reach American shores in February 2010.
2011 Hyundai Veloster
Hyundai also plans to take the wraps off another new model. The company has revealed plans to introduce a Veloster two-door coupe to replace the Hyundai Coupe/Tiburon.
Veloster is expected to be a fun-to-drive vehicle with plenty of power coming from new 1.6L Turbo engine that packs an impressive 172 horsepower. In Europe, the model is expected to also receive a diesel power, while North Americans should also get a more powerful 2.0L Turbo engine powered Veloster.

About New Honda Freed

Here's about Honda Freed.

In the invitation letter sent to the editorial staff jogjaseed mentioned, the launch of Honda Freed will be done by the President Director of PT Honda Prospect Motor Mr.Yukihiro Aoshima, and was attended by the Managing Director of Honda Motor Co.., Ltd.., Who served President & CEO Asian Honda Motor Co., Ltd.., Mr. Fumihiko Ike, and Large Project Leader for Honda Freed, Mr. Shigehiro Yasuki from Honda R & D Co.., Ltd..

Freed will be exhibited in the Indonesia International Motor Show, 24 July to 2 August, will be present with two variants, namely doors and electrically non-electrically. While the transmission is only available otomatik.

Early June, from automotive journalists are invited to try HPM Honda Freed in Bali. Freed to use the same engine with the Honda Jazz and Honda City i-VTEC that is with a 1500 cc with the additional technology Drive by Wire (DBW) and Shift Hold Control, dikendarai quite comfortable when the route-route in the area Ubud, Jimbaran and Kuta. However, the MPV is indeed Anyar Honda Jazz or not segalak City.

If the Large Project Leader Freed Honda, Shigero Yasuki, this MPV is the air barrier has a larger 10% and also bobotnya more weight from the Honda Jazz. Therefore, Freed does not seagresif Honda Jazz or City. Although Freed 1.5 l engine is disetting back so that it is adequate for an MPV. Maximum power generated reached 116 on the PK 6600 rpm while torsi its maximum 146 Nm at 4800 rpm.

Freed is fenomenal, always be debate on the land since exclusive media preview event in March 2009 ago, and achieve Best Value performance event on the Japan Car of the Year Award 2008-2009.

With a stylish design, functionality design of integrated, detailed attention will comfort and security, to fuel efficiency and the space space

cabin that is able to accommodate 7 passengers, Honda Freed is a car that will be the trend for the new drive New Generation Family in Indonesia.

Freed by Jonfis Fandy, Marketing & Aftersales Service Director of PT Honda Prospect Motor start offered IDR 260 million.

Perodua MPV launch on November

Above about Perodua MPV.

Although total industry sales have dropped by about 12 per cent in the first five months, the performance was better than in the US and Europe, said Datuk Syed Abdull Hafiz Syed Abu Bakar, managing director of Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Sdn Bhd (Perodua).

Hafiz also said that the new multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) from Perodua, the country's largest car company by sales, should be launched in the third week of November.

Prices of the 1.5-litre MPV may start at under RM57,000 for the manual transmission unit, while the most expensive, an automatic version, should not cost more than RM66,000.

Hafiz is banking on the seven-seater to boost the domestic market, which he foresees will contract by 10 to 12 per cent to about 480,000 to 490,000 units for the whole year.

"Except for a few brighter spots like Germany, India and China, Malaysia has done quite decently so far compared to the US and many European countries. We have only contracted by about 12 per cent in the first five months as opposed to about 50 per cent in the US and 20 to 30 per cent in Europe," Hafiz said after launching the inaugural Perodua Eco-Challenge at Speedway Plus Circuit in Subang Jaya on Saturday.

The event saw students from 12 institutions of higher learning racing in their modified and decorated Myvis sponsored by Perodua.

"Sales will get better in the next three months as June, July and August, together with May, are traditionally peak months because of the festive seasons," Hafiz added.

Perodua itself saw its sales slowing 7 per cent from January till May, but Hafiz believes it can close 2009 with a contraction of only 5 to 6 per cent.

"Last year, we sold some 167,000 cars and this year, it should be around 158,000. About 51 per cent of our 2009 volume should come in the second half," he said.

In anticipation of stronger months ahead, Perodua is ramping up production at its plant in Serendah, Selangor. Production of the MPV should start in October.

Booking for the MPV is due to open in September after Hari Raya.

Talks about Proton Exora

Here's about Proton Exora.

Proton will be attempting to stave off Perodua’s attack with a smaller but cheaper Perodua D46T MPV combined with a more desirable Toyota-associated brand because of the original model (it will be derived from the Toyota Passo Sette) this coming November.

The D46T is no secret, we’ve already seen the exterior and interior of what the Perodua version will look like, and the Toyota Passo Sette has already been around for quite sometime for all to see. In fact, one of the Passo Sette we’ve seen on Malaysian roads on road tests may in fact be likely to be owned by Proton.

The weapon of choice will be a cheaper version of the Exora. Right now the Exora is only available in M-Line and H-Line variants, with the only differences between them being creature comforts and minor styling differences.

A cheaper Exora will be further downgraded in terms of equipment, and will likely feature a manual gearbox, which actually could be more of a blessing for the Exora, as the auto while capable of taking the vehicle up to cruising speed and keeping it there, is rather sluggy to move around at city speeds.

Reader Kenneth spotted this Exora on the Penang bridge. It has light disguises on but we all know it’s an Exora. The LED tail lamps are still there but if this is a version of the production B-Line or manual model, we can see some evidence of downspeccing in the form of steel wheels with a cover instead of proper alloy wheels.

About Honda Odyssey

Above about Honda Odyssey.

THE big MPV is still popular despite the downturn, although more seem to be zeroing on the basic versions. At Kah Motor, for example, the authorised Honda distributor is selling more of the entry-level Odyssey EX model than before - 25 per cent of total sales, to be exact. A year ago, virtually all of its 2.4-litre seven-seaters delivered were of the more expensive Odyssey EXV.

Kah Motor says the move downwards is also partly due to the wider price gap between the two grades caused by the higher Japanese yen.

But high-end or low-end, powered seats or no powered seats, the new Odyssey should put a smile on your face in a way few large MPV models can. The difference between the EX and EXV grades is now about $5,800, from around $3,000 previously.

The fourth-generation Odyssey is based on the platform of the third-generation model but Honda says 60 per cent of its components are new.

One all-new feature is the Motion Adaptive Electric Power Steering. Available only in the more expensive EXV, it intervenes electronically to suppress understeer by counter-steering, when necessary. In a sharp corner, for example, this helps to reduce body roll. Together with the softer suspension, the new Odyssey is as comfort-biased as an inflatable ring cushion for haemorrhoid sufferers, yet still able to display a commendable level of control.

The new Odyssey has the same 2.4-litre engine to power the front wheels but with drive-by-wire and 180 hp, or an extra 20 horses. Also different is the dashboard, which has been ?carved out? to yield more cabin space, and features spacey 3D-look instruments.

The exterior has also been reworked. Unlike the van of old, this new Odyssey is sleeker and looks more like an Accord Estate rather than a multi-purpose vehicle. More importantly, the styling has incorporated slimmer front pillars for better forward visibility.

About Honda Odyssey

Above about Honda Odyssey.

THE big MPV is still popular despite the downturn, although more seem to be zeroing on the basic versions. At Kah Motor, for example, the authorised Honda distributor is selling more of the entry-level Odyssey EX model than before - 25 per cent of total sales, to be exact. A year ago, virtually all of its 2.4-litre seven-seaters delivered were of the more expensive Odyssey EXV.

Kah Motor says the move downwards is also partly due to the wider price gap between the two grades caused by the higher Japanese yen.

But high-end or low-end, powered seats or no powered seats, the new Odyssey should put a smile on your face in a way few large MPV models can. The difference between the EX and EXV grades is now about $5,800, from around $3,000 previously.

The fourth-generation Odyssey is based on the platform of the third-generation model but Honda says 60 per cent of its components are new.

One all-new feature is the Motion Adaptive Electric Power Steering. Available only in the more expensive EXV, it intervenes electronically to suppress understeer by counter-steering, when necessary. In a sharp corner, for example, this helps to reduce body roll. Together with the softer suspension, the new Odyssey is as comfort-biased as an inflatable ring cushion for haemorrhoid sufferers, yet still able to display a commendable level of control.

HONDA ODYSSEY

Engine: X2,354cc inline-4 Transmission: 5-speed automatic Power: 180bhp @ 6,500 rpm Torque: 218 Nm @ 4,500 rpm 0-100 kmh: 11.5 secs Top speed: 209kph Price: $102,400 (with COE) Distributor: Kah Motor

The new Odyssey has the same 2.4-litre engine to power the front wheels but with drive-by-wire and 180 hp, or an extra 20 horses. Also different is the dashboard, which has been ?carved out? to yield more cabin space, and features spacey 3D-look instruments.

The exterior has also been reworked. Unlike the van of old, this new Odyssey is sleeker and looks more like an Accord Estate rather than a multi-purpose vehicle. More importantly, the styling has incorporated slimmer front pillars for better forward visibility.

New Kangoo car at Yeovil-based Renault

Above about new Kangoo car at Yeovil-based Renault .

YEOVIL dealership AKS Renault is offering drivers the chance to test drive the New Kangoo car.

The New Kangoo is taller, wider and longer than its predecessor offering unprecedented comfort for the whole family as well as their belongings.

Built on the same platform as Renault’s New Scenic, its spacious design allows five adults to enjoy the ride in comfort, with those in the back benefiting from much greater leg and elbow room.

The rear bench also provides three full seat spaces, with best-in-class legroom putting an end to those arguments about who has to sit behind dad!

New Kangoo isn’t just roomy though with its redesigned cabin offering a bright and airy interior with a new-look MPV-style dashboard, plus new trim and upholstery materials throughout.

Even the entry-level model offers a wealth of equipment to make those long journeys fly by including a 30W audio system with fingertip controls and 12V power outlet in the centre console.

The Expression model adds stylish body-coloured bumpers and door mirrors, electric/folding door mirrors and front fog lights.

With everyone safely inside, New Kangoo still has plenty of room to transport anything from pets to leisure equipment to all those summer holiday essentials.

Light work is made of bulky items such as bicycles thanks to the rear seat which folds down in one simple movement to give a completely flat load space.

Indeed, the ingenious ‘Flat Floor’ system allows the rear seat base to slide forward into the footwell and the rear seat back to fold down in its place.

When combined with the folding front passenger seat, it gives an even more versatile and cavernous load space of 2,866 litres – perfect for transporting even the kitchen sink!

Even the innovative roof bars that convert into a luggage rack, without the need of any tools, can carry up to 80kg ensuring nothing need be left behind.

In the cabin, no opportunity has been wasted to provide clever storage solutions. Depending on the model, these include a capacious front overhead shelf, three aviation-style lockers for the rear seat passengers, underfloor storage, large door bins, map pockets and numerous other cubby holes that have a combined capacity of 77 litres.

And even with New Kangoo loaded up, its range of five engines, including the flagship 1.5 dCi 106 with six-speed gearbox for the first time, will ensure a responsive drive together with the impressive ride and handling.

Anton K Szulc, managing director of AKS Renault, said: “New Kangoo is so versatile that it’s perfect for everyone from families who need plenty of space to older couples who appreciate the higher driving position – and all from just £11,200.”

Mazda MPV specification

MAZDA MPV 2500 cc V6 engine, smooth engine 1999 reg 2001 white, vacuum sliding doors, leather Seat, luxury, high spec, new tyres, in good condition, have a look with our car then make compare, RM55k neg.

Compact MPV Peugeot 5008

Above about Peugeot 5008 compact MPV.

Strengthening its position in the highly competitive compact MPV sector in Europe, the PSA Peugeot-Citroen recently swiped the covers off the all-new Peugeot 5008 people carrier that is set to go on sale in the autumn after a premiere at the Frankfurt auto show in September. The 5008 that will be offered in five- and seven-seat configurations will compete directly with the Renault Scenic and Grand Scenic and Opel Zafira MPVs as well as its sister company's Citroen C4 Picasso and C4 Grand Picasso models.

About Honda Jazz

Here's about Honda Jazz.

The first generation Jazz set a benchmark by achieving cumulative sales of more than 2 million units. The truly acclaimed and the stunning performer Honda Jazz , in its Second generation avatar, has been launched finally in India but with a price tag starting from Rs. 7 lakhs the prospective buyers may go for the much more affordable and feature rich Hyundai i20.

Design

Honda’s Jazz is one of the cleverest superminis around. It’s a thoroughly modern design that’s innovative in its use of space, with remarkably good head and rear legroom, well specced, and fitted with frugal and characterful engines.

ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS
Displacement:	1198cc, SOHC, i-VTEC
Engine Type:	Petrol
Maximum Power:	89 Bhp @ 6200 rpm
Maximum Torque:	110 Nm @ 4800 rpm

It’s at its best in town where it’s both friendly and fun to drive. From the outside the brilliance of the Jazz is not immediately obvious. It has more than a hint of the MPV (Multi Purpose Vehicle) about it. Though the Honda Jazz is small, Honda’s enviable reputation for refinement and reliability shine through clearly.

Take a little look at the exterior of the Honda Jazz and you will see just some of the great styling and body features that saw the Honda Jazz win the Japan Car of the Year in 2001 and 2002 – with a few updated twists here and there.

The Exterior Design of Honda Jazz is stylish and embellish typical Honda design – sharp lines and central bonnet ridge. Sharp headlamps supplements the steeply raked windscreen but the front grille resembles the CR-V. Alloy wheels and ellipsoidal glass area decorates the Jazz side. Taillamp is the pure attraction as it blends with the rear.

Proton-Chery partnership

These about MPV

More news on the Proton-Chery partnership – Business Times reported today that Proton Holdings Bhd may produce an MPV and an SUV model together with Chery Automobiles Co Ltd, according to Chery distributor Alado’s executive chairman Tan Sri Cam Soh.

Previously Alado said it wanted to locally assemble the Chery Tiggo T11 SUV and the Chery V5 Crossover MPV here in Malaysia. So what Alado’s executives might have meant is Proton will assemble the Tiggo and V5 here in Malaysia for Chery, or Proton will come out with SUV and MPV models based on the Chery platforms. I think it’s more likely the former rather than the latter.

Renault Scenic compact MPV

Here's about Renault Scenic.

There are 28 derivatives in the range across five trim levels – Extreme, Expression, Dynamique, TomTom Edition and Privilege – priced between £13,595 to £22,295 – up to £2,060 less than current models, according to Renault.

The entry-level Extreme 110bhp 1.6-litre VVT is priced at £13,595, £2,045 cheaper than the Ford C-MAX Style 100bhp 1.6, says the French manufacturer.

Among the range are six low-CO2 eco² versions with CO2 emissions of 130g/km or less

Standard equipment on the Scenic range includes 4x15W radio CD MP3, air conditioning, ESP, front and rear curtain airbags and Tunepoint.

Moving up the range, Expression adds automatic parking brake, child minder mirror, electric rear windows, folding passenger seat and the all-new TFT dashboard.

The likely best-seller, Dynamique, adds 16” alloy wheels (17” on dCi 150 and dCi 160 versions), automatic lights and wipers, Bluetooth, cruise control, hands free keycard, leather steering wheel, multi-functional TunePoint and speed limiter.

The new Scenic boasts a new TomTom Edition trim level, which is based on Dynamique and offers Carminat TomTom for an additional £360.

Flagship Privilege trim provides dual-zone climate control, electric folding mirrors, part leather upholstery, rear parking sensors and sliding centre storage unit.

Pay options include 18" Alloy wheels, Arkamys audio system 6CD changer with Bluetooth, integrated Carminat TomTom, 3D full colour DVD satellite navigation, electric panoramic sunroof and bi-xenon headlights.

There will be eight engines available at launch – three petrol and five diesel – ranging from 86hp to 160hp.

Three new engines and transmissions include the 130bhp 1.4 TCe (Turbo Control Efficiency), 140bhp 2.0-litre VVT with CVT and 160bhp 2.0-litre dCi .

Perodua MPV D46T

Above about Perodua MPV D46T.

More and more news about another local MPV, specifically from Perodua reveiled. And now, the Perodua MPV D46T teaser is out. Below are some of the pictures. Seems that the figure getting clearer by day. Soon I believe that we can spot some of them on the road, doing the test drive.

Peugeot 5008 MPV

These are about Peugeot 5008 MPV.

Peugeot has revealed its 5008 MPV (2010) that will make its world debut at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show and will be on the market during the autumn of 2009.

Peugeot 5008 MPV is designed to supply the need of compact people carriers. This compact five to seven seater people carrier offers a number of significant benefits that will enhance and strengthen Peugeot’s presence in the family car market. After the 308 SW and the recent 3008 crossover, the 5008, with a length of 4.53 m and a height of 1.64 m, is a natural extension to Peugeot’s current offerings in the M1 segment.

Peugeot will offer two petrol engines plus four diesel engines at the launch time. The two petrol engines consist of 120 bhp 1.6 litre VTi engine with 5-7.3 litres/100 km and 156 bhp 1.6 litre VTi with 5 -7.1 litres/100 km of fuel consumption. The four diesel engine start from 110 bhp 1.6 litre HDi engine with 5.4 litres/100 km to 163 bhp 2.0 litre HDi FAP engine with - 6.8 litres/100 km of fuel consumption.

The 2010 Peugeot 5008 MPV is equipped with enhancement on safety features, a high-tech multimedia and two satellite-navigation systems. More details in the press release below after the jump.

Press Release

With the 5008, Peugeot has created a new interpretation of the compact people carrier. This new model combines all the manufacturer’s key values but also builds further on the benefits expected by customers in this segment without any adverse effect on the vehicle’s road holding. The 5008 also introduces a range of cutting edge technologies to further enhance comfort, convenience and driving safety. As a result, the 5008 aims to set new benchmarks in the market for compact people carriers.

Peugeot expands its market coverage in the M1 segment

The 5008, after the 3008 crossover, is Peugeot’s second new product offering in the large M1 vehicle segment. This compact five to seven seater people carrier offers a number of significant benefits that will enhance and strengthen Peugeot’s presence in the family car market. After the 308 SW and the recent 3008 crossover, the 5008, with a length of 4.53 m and a height of 1.64 m, is a natural extension to Peugeot’s current offerings in the M1 segment.

An aerodynamic and elegantly styled people carrier

In terms of exterior style, the 5008 stands out with its balanced and particularly distinctive profile. Its aerodynamic styling (Cx of 0.29 and Scx of 0.77) is akin to that of the TGV high-speed train. It evokes fluidity and driveability of the very highest order.
The front of the car with its attractive profiled headlamps, steeply plunging bonnet which extends backwards towards the large front windscreen which is level with the front wheels, seems to be designed to penetrate through the air in the most efficient way.

The natural fluidity emanating from the 5008 is further enhanced by the chrome detailing decorating the front grille that gives the car an elegant and luxurious appeal. The design of the vehicle’s sides both pure and smooth, create an impression of movement, while the high waist line inspires safety.

The large glazed surface area seems to encircle the entire car without any interruption, a feature due in particular to the specific design of the large rear quarter panel windows which blend into the rear tailgate glass. This provides a bright and pleasant passenger compartment ambience for the benefit of all the occupants, not least the rear passengers who also receive the full benefit of the extra light provided by the large panoramic glass roof.

The vehicle’s profile reveals an elegant styling line which starts at the level of the rear door, becomes more accentuated on the wing and then passes around to the rear of the 5008. This feature adds a further touch of dynamism to the side profile and gives character to the design of the tailgate of the 5008.

The stylish design of the rear lights and their light-guide technology, give the car its visual signature. The impression created by the car’s rear aspect is one of purity, robustness and status. The design of the tailgate hints at easy access to the boot, an essential quality for a family car.

This new style is based on an original interpretation of a compact people carrier, where a dynamic exterior styling combines harmoniously with a large interior capacity.

A luxurious interior designed for driving pleasure

The driver’s seat of the 5008 is undeniably original and innovative in the world of the people carrier. The raised driving position typical of this segment gives the driver excellent visibility and a real feeling of safety.

The designers of the car have succeeded in enhancing the ergonomics of the driving position, thanks firstly to the quality of the seats, and secondly to the steep vertical angle of inclination of the steering wheel, identical to that of the 308 hatchback. The driving position therefore provides the driver with good control and comfort, while at the same time retaining a raised position and the sense of dominating the road.

Equipped with a number of avant-garde technologies such as a head-up display, and featuring high-quality, luxurious materials, the design of the driver’s seat supports the theme of innovative and driving pleasure present in every detail of the 5008.

Focused around the needs of the driver, the instrument panel is further extended by the design of the elegant centre console with its flowing design. The inclined front of the fascia panel is designed to be in harmony with that of the dynamic exterior profile, creating an impressive feeling of overall space.

The advanced ergonomics of the controls, all easily accessible, link the 5008 to the range of Peugeot’s range of current passenger vehicles.

A bright and very spacious interior

The area of the wide front windscreen (1.70 m2) is increased even further by the large panoramic glass roof (1.69 m2), one of the largest in the Peugeot range. As a result, passengers benefit from a bright interior and an exceptional panoramic view of the outside. Adding the side windows, the rear quarter panel windows and the rear windscreen, the glazed surface area totals 5.77 m2.

Spacious is certainly no understatement when it comes to describing the interior of the 5008. For example, elbow width is 1476 mm at the front and 1520 mm in the second row, with its three individual seats of equal width. In the third row, where two adult passengers can be seated, this value is 1341 mm.

Leg room is just as generous, as is headroom, which means that tall passengers can be accommodated without difficulty.

For passengers wishing to optimise their seating position, the three seats in the second row are equipped with two seat back tilting positions and can slide individually over a length of 130 mm. With regards to modularity, this makes it possible to increase the capacity of the rear load area or provide slightly more space for the third row occupants.

Renault Escape first going on sale

Here's about Renault.

Summer marks the twenty-fifth anniversary of the Renault Espace first going on sale. Sales of the groundbreaking vehicle, which started the MPV revolution back in the early Eighties and has had four distinct generations, have now reached almost 1.2 million since its launch in 1984, 80,000 of which are in the UK.

Originally conceived by Renault and its partner, Matra, the first Espace appeared in 1984 and was initially greeted with a combination of intrigue and scepticism - nothing like Espace had ever been seen before. Flying in the face of accepted wisdom, the Espace epitomised Renault’s desire to push the boundaries of conventional design and create a car which met the changing needs of a rapidly evolving society.

With each successive version, Renault brought additional enhancements in terms of safety, driving pleasure and travelling comfort, to the point where today’s latest model is more than a match for a ‘conventional’ executive car.

Espace’s roots can be traced back to late November 1979 when a prototype (P16) was trialled based on Renault's plans for a grand-touring saloon with a flexible interior and individual seats, meanwhile Matra had plans for a similar vehicle inspired by the mini-van market in America but with bench seats. Espace was conceived on 15th December 1982 when Matra and Renault joined forces on a second prototype codenamed P23. Renault took charge of product definition, interior and exterior design, powertrains, promotion and sales while Matra handled vehicle development and production.

Jacques Cheinisse, head of Renault's upmarket product range at the time, drew up the specifications that would define the key features of the Renault MPV concept: uncluttered flat floor for front-to-back mobility, five or seven independent seats (with two front swivelling seats), and bodywork made from composite material to keep vehicle weight low.

Facts about Nissan NV200

Above about Nissan NV200

The NV200 has shifting side doors as well as up to 4.1 cubic metres of bucket capacity. It is reduction than 4.4m long, though has a bucket brook over dual metres, as well as has a low building for easy loading. Its cargo is up to 771kg.

The NV200 is front-wheel-drive as well as will come with a 1.6-litre motor fuel engine (108bhp) or a 86bhp 1.5dCi Renault diesel, as well as a five-speed primer gearbox.

Equipment accessible in a Combi includes heating as well as movement for all 3 rows of seats, a rear-view parking camera, crater as well as bottle holders, electric windows, fortitude carry out as well as side airbags (front airbags have been standard).

MPV overturns. three killed

MPV overturn near Temerloh cause three were killed.

TEMERLOH, May 31 (Bernama) -- Three Indonesians were killed while 10 others were hurt, including seven with serious injuries, when a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) they were travelling in skidded and overturned before it was hit by an oncoming car at Km128.1 of the East Coast Highway near Temerloh here today.

Temerloh police chief ACP Ahmad Fadzillah Mohamed said the MPV was from Kuala Lumpur and heading towards Kuantan when its driver was believed to have lost control of the wheel, causing the vehicle to skid at about 6.40pm.

He said the MPV driven by a local was ferrying 13 Indonesians.

The dead were identified as Fauzi Umur, 30, Samumur, 27, dan Saat Adim, 37. All three of them died at the scene.

The seven injured, all Indonesians, were sent to the Sultan Ahmad Shah Hospital in Temerloh .

Ahmad Fadzillah said the driver of the car involved in the accident escaped with only minor injuries.

He said all the Indonesians travelling in the MPV had valid documents and were said to be plantation workers on their way to a plantation in Terengganu.

The accident caused a 2km traffic jam.

New bumper and grille in Honda CR-V

Here's abut new Honda CR-V.

The refreshed Honda CR-V with new bumpers and grille has been set afloat in the Italian market. Dubbed the CR-V Action Sky and CR-V Action Trend, the new variants feature nothing more than new bumpers and the fog lights pushed a little back has these two parallel plastic slabs that look like an afterthought to me.

Level of equipment has gone slightly up and the addition is worthy of mention. A new radar system mounted up front judges if the car is going to collide with an obstruction in front and brakes automatically. This system is similar to Mercedes Benz’s Distronic Plus system which has saved innumerable lives.

The debate of the automatic braking system subtracting driver involvement is beyond the scope of this blog post.

Volkswagen mini MPV

Abve about Volkswagen mini MPV.

A Volkswagen’s board member confirmed that the German automaker is working on a mini-MPV version of the 2010 Polo along with a “more macho” successor to the Beetle. Han Dieter Potsch said that a “mini-MPV is in an area we have under active consideration. In terms of downsizing, people will not stick to one type of small car or another.”

Sources told AutoCar that many brands struggle with mini-MPVs but when they are planned and executed properly, “they can be complementary.”

Potsch said that Volkswagen has been stepping up R&D efforts to make sure it is not in a troublesome position when the market starts to recover.

As for the “macho Beetle,” sources told AutoCar that the car will be a lot less feminine than before and will be more masculine so guys are interested in buying it.

Perodua has no intension of collaborating with other partner

Here' about Perodua.

KUALA LUMPUR: Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Sdn Bhd (Perodua) has no intention of collaborating with other partners to weather the current economic downturn, says managing director Datuk Syed Hafiz Syed Abu Bakar.

“Our shareholders are cash rich and we do not need additional funds,” he told reporters on the sidelines at the second Kuala Lumpur International Automotive Conference yesterday.

According to the company’s website, Perodua’s shareholders are UMW Corp Sdn Bhd with a 38% stake, Daihatsu Motor Co Ltd (20%), MBM Resources Bhd (20%), PNB Equity Resources Corp Sdn Bhd (10%), Mitsui & Co Ltd (7%) and Daihatsu (M) Sdn Bhd (5%).

“Our shareholders are also very experienced in the automotive industry. Daihatsu is strong in the compact car segment and Toyota (for which a UMW subsidiary is the distributor) is a successful brand around the world,” said Syed Hafiz.

He also said the company had no plans to manufacture hybrid vehicles.

“We are not going to develop hybrids because it is expensive (to manufacture). Our focus is to be as fuel efficient as possible. We just want to produce cars that can give more miles to the gallon. We can’t be like the rest of the world – when fuel prices go up, they talk about hybrids. But when prices go the other way, they forget about it,” Syed Hafiz said.

On the National Automotive Policy, Syed Hafiz said he was supportive of the International Trade and Industry Ministry’s intention to review it and encourage liberalisation within the automotive industry.

“Liberalisation is inevitable but it should be implemented gradually so that local automotive players will not be put out of business overnight. Thousands of jobs and billions of investments are at stake.”

Meanwhile, Proton Holdings Bhd managing director Datuk Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohamed Tahir said he welcomed any party that was interested to form an alliance with the company.

“If there are interested parties, they should approach us and we will assess whether it is good for both the company and the country.

“We never said that our doors are closed and we are interested in finding a strategic partner. It could be Chery (Alado), BMW or Volkswagen, so long as it benefits Proton,” he said.

On Perodua’s multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) which it plans to launch later this year and the impact on Proton’s Exora MPV, Syed Zainal said: “We welcome the competition because it will make us work harder.”

Talks about Kia Ceed Plus

Above is about Kia Ceed Plus.

Kia has put the upcoming Ceed Plus MPV to work, hauling a backseat full of would-be passengers and pulling a trailer somewhere within a mountainous forest in Europe.

And here we get some of the best interior spy shots yet of this hatch-tastic-aspiring new creature. The center console seems practical and within reach of the driver, while the triple circle instrument panel gives it a little sporty-like vivaciousness.

Oh, yes, and those jugs of liquid in the back seats shapped like an upper torso? Those are meant to simulate passengers, most likely children judging by the size, with a weighted suitcase on the floor to simulate the passenger's legs. Jugs of water don't complain and scream and fight and have to go to the bathroom every 20 minutes, so its a sensible substitute.

In these shots we still have a camouflaged front end, but we've previously seen this Kia Ceed Plus MPV without its face mask on and the little tyke bears a striking resemblance to a Ford.

The Ceed Plus MPV will be introduced with two 1.6 liter engine variants, one gasoline/petrol and one diesel, both producing a reasonable 126 hp. More engine choices will likely follow later on.

The Kia Ceed Plus MPV is expected to launch later this year or sometime in early 2010.

Toyota Passo Sette MPV

Above about the new MPV.

Toyota and Daihatsu jointly launched their new 7-seater MPV, based on the Toyota Passo / Daihatsu Sirion (Boon) hatchback. Therefore, this new MPV will be a "preview" to Perodua's new MPV that will be launched this year (I don't know when).


Passo Sette








Not bad right? I find it pretty stylish too!!! Though it seems a little narrow but I guess it's okay if the price is reasonable.

About Toyota MPV

Here's about Toyota MPV.

The Toyota/Daihatsu will be competing with the Proton MPV as a Perodua which is actually the Perodua MPV rumours which had been around for quite some time.The Malaysian version which is the upcoming Perodua MPV will be launched in Malaysia on the third quarter of 2009 which is just around half a year after the launch of Proton MPV

Eventhough the the Toyota/Daihatsu/Perodua is smaller than the Proton MPV, it will be a tough competitor to the Proton MPV with the clever utilization of the interior which makes the interior roomy and spacious then it looks.

The MPV will be powered by a 1.5 liter 3SZ-VE engine which will drive the front wheel.For the Perodua model, the engine to be used is yet to be confirmed.Most probably it will be powered by a 1.5 DVVT engine.Minor alteration will be done to the MPV as a Perodua MPV such as the shifter location which maybe would be changed to the most common position in Malaysia’s car, between the seats.

The TOYOTA PASSO SETTE/DAIHATSU BOON RUMINOUS will be introduced on Christmast (25 DEC 2008) and expected to be priced between 1.45-1.80 million yen (RM56,174-RM69,636)based on the current currency rates.

The price for the Perodua MPV is not confirmed yet.But the price should well under RM80k for it to compete with the upcoming Proton MPV and the current hot shot the Nissan Grand Livina and the other competitor such as the Naza Kia Rondo and the Cherry Eastar.

Toyota is the best small MPV

It's about Toyota Verso that winning the title of 'Best Small MPV.

The new 2009 Toyota Verso continues the winning streak of its predecessor, taking the title of Best Small MPV at the Fleet World Honours awards for the third consecutive year.

Presented at the RAC Club in Pall Mall, Richard Balshaw, General Manager for Fleet collected the award and said, "To have retained this award for the third year running is very satisfying. The new Verso with Toyota Optimal Drive raises the quality level in the small MPV market. This is achieved with enhanced specification and safety features, plus improvements to the innovative Easy Flat-7 seating system."

Ken Rogers, Fleet World Editor said: "Based on the Auris platform, the new Verso benefits from Toyota's 'Optimal Drive' technology, a package of features which increased power output by up to 20 per cent, while at the same time achieving reductions in emissions and fuel economy of up to 12 per cent.

"Setting out to appeal to more than just the family audience, new Verso follows in the tyre-tracks of Corolla Verso in terms of seating/load-carrying versatility. And Verso is a full 7-seater. There is a clever fold-flat feature for all five rear seats which significantly boosts both convenience and load-lugging capability for bulky items.

"Important from the fleet perspective, the 2.0 D-4D 130 version hits the target for appropriate taxation/green credentials by keeping beneath the 160g/km Capital Allowance break-point."

MPV 2012 for Hyunday

This is about Hyunday 'Ballena"

Inspired by the gigantic hydrodynamic form of a whale, 'Ballena' offers Minivan like visibility, and cargo carrying capability of a truck, all while providing a comfortable interior arrangement, comparable to ones found in four-door sedans.

The new Toyota MPV

Here's about Toyota MPV

SMART drivers definitely won’t need a high IQ to get the point of Toyota’s tiniest tot, the smallest of the company’s four newest models.

The IQ is similar to the Smart in so many ways and yet so much smarter where it matters; four(ish) seats to the Smart’s two, a better Euro NCAP safety rating and blessed with the cheeky Pokémon styling.

Admittedly it’s not going to give you hot-hatch style thrills along the country lanes of North Wales, but it’s still fun to drive, mainly because it’s so easy to hustle through town centre’s and because of how its engine sounds.

Toyota say it has a 1.0 litre petrol engine but – sounding like an F1 car when you push it and eerily quiet when you don’t – this particular powerplant is one which will delight most drivers.

Anyone who expects MPV levels of space is going to be disappointed, the boot is practically non-existent, and it’s not cheap in the way the Aygo, Toyota’s other baby offering, is.

But what it does do is answer age-old questions about how to fit four people into a very small amount of space very intelligently, and its styling is cool in a uniquely Japanese sort of way.

It’s not perfect but you can’t help loving it.

Diesel engine with 2-stroke in Mazda MPV

Above is about 2-stroke engine in Mazda MPV

As the name suggests, these engines work on reciprocating actions of pistons. One stroke means one linear motion of the piston in one direction. When the piston moves in the opposite direction, that is counted as another stroke.

For a 2-stroke engine, the piston has to move up, and then down to complete one cycle of the engine. In those 2 strokes of the piston, the crankshaft will have turned 1 revolution.

The 2 strokes of the piston is to complete 4 stages of the combustion cycle - air intake, compression, combustion and exhaust. As you might have known, in order for a fire (or explosion) to occur to power the engine, we need a fuel, a heat source, and oxygen coming together at the same time.

Remember how the crankshaft and the piston moves in a cylinder? The reciprocating movement of the piston is converted to rotary motion by means of a crankshaft. The piston reciprocates between Top Dead Center and Bottom Dead Center inside the cylinder liner.

One of the most prominent feature of a 2-stroke engine is the presence of air intake ports on the cylinder liner that will enable fresh air to be led in for combustion.

These air inlet ports are cut into the cylinder liner somewhere at the lower end of the latter. In a typical design, the air inlet port are located about 35 degrees from the Bottom Dead Center (BDC).

In many designs, the fresh air that is introduced into the cylinder is also used to drive out the spent exhaust gases inside it. Many designs make use of scavenging air fans like electric blowers or turbochargers to slightly pressurize the intake air before the latter is introduced into the cylinder.

In order to allow the exhaust gases to be expelled from the cylinder, exhaust ports are often cut into the cylinder just like the air intake ports. A typical design will have the exhaust port located about 50 degrees from Bottom Dead Center.

So, let's describe our engine stages at the combustion space between the piston top and the cylinder head.

From Bottom Dead Center (BDC), the piston, full of fresh air, moves up the cylinder liner until it covers up the air intake port. The air intake process stops.

The piston moves further up. It then covers up the exhaust port on the cylinder liner. The exhaust process stops.

The piston moves further up. The air inside the combustion space is compressed and becomes hot. The piston has nearly reached Top Dead Center at this point.

Highly atomized fuel is then injected into the combustion space. The fuel burns rapidly causing an explosion inside the combustion space. The explosion causes a tremendous rise in pressure and the piston is pushed down towards BDC.

As the piston moves down, the exhaust ports uncover about 50 degrees from BDC. Exhaust gases are thus led out from the cylinder. The pressure inside the cylinder drops immediately.

The piston moves further down. At 35 degrees from BDC, it uncovers the air intake port. Fresh air is then led into the cylinder.

The piston then reaches BDC. Because of the momentum created from the force of the explosion, the piston reverses in direction and moves upwards towards Top Dead Center (TDC).

The process then repeats itself.

In some designs, the exhaust gases are removed through an exhaust valve, located at the cylinder head and very similar to the 4-stroke engines. This type of scavenging is called uniflow scavenging. The timing of the valve opening and closing will be controlled by a camshaft, push rods, rocker arms or other similar devices.

Concept of KIA no3

Above is about Kia concept.

The all-new, Kia No3 concept car, which made its world premiere at the 79th Salon International de l'Auto in Geneva, redefines the small MPV genre by creating a spacious, functional car that is also beautiful and fun-to-drive. The concept features a unique extended windscreen and panorama glass roof with a diagonal supporting bar, an automatic sun visor and the evolving 'face of Kia' which displays the front grille, head lamps and brand logo in a new constellation.

The 4045 mm long concept, which is finished in matt Titanium Grey with contrasting gloss-white accents, stands out from the crowd with its powerful proportions, dynamic lines, a modern, sophisticated interior and generous cabin space for flexible use. It delivers urban utility with a sporty touch.

The car brings all the features and strengths of a highly versatile multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) into the urban compact class, combining up-to-date mobility with individual style. Kia No3 excels in particular through its unique design language characterised by refreshing clarity and modern, youthful sportiness.

Presenting a concept car of this calibre, Kia Motors Corporation is taking another step in its transition to being a globally oriented, design-focused carmaker. Kia No3 was created with the European market in mind, by Chief Designer Gregory Guillaume at the Kia Design Centre in Frankfurt (Germany) under the guidance of Kia's Chief Design Officer Peter Schreyer. The concept demonstrates Kia's newly created design language in the treatment of surfaces and the flow of lines as well as the evolving 'face of Kia' which is destined to appear on all future Kia models.


Compact sportiness combined with versatility and spaciousness creates a unique interaction and a truly innovative style in Kia No3. The new concept car establishes the image of the brand and Kia's new design philosophy that will extend beyond the segment of compact cars. The fresh 'face' of the brand is clearly characterised by the proportions of three crucial elements and the relationship between them — the new radiator grille, the extra-large headlights, and the brand logo placed precisely on the centre-line, create a new 'constellation' that will also be highlighted on Kia's future models.

Extremely short overhangs accentuate the compact exterior dimensions of the car, powerfully contoured bumpers and large wheel arches as well as extra-large diameter wheels, bring out the sporty character of Kia No3. The concept clearly boasts a dynamic wedge shape characterised in particular by the window graphics and the lines rising up to the rear. The rear light clusters are wrapped distinctly around the side panels.

Nineteen-inch light-alloy wheels running on all-weather high-speed tyres, provide a clear hint at the car's sporting performance. The wheel rims, painted black on the outside and finished in glossy chrome on the inside, exude a strong feeling of power.

Kia No3's long wheelbase (2615 mm) and short overhangs front and rear, together with generous height (1600 mm) and width (1760 mm), provide all the features and qualities typical of an MPV. Extra comfort and space, plus the economic use of the available space are ensured by the ergonomically ideal, slightly elevated seating position. The split rear seats are adjustable independently, with sliding and folding functions.

An extra-large panorama glass roof extends directly out of the windscreen and stretches all the way to the rear spoiler. The result is not only excellent all-round visibility, but also a truly generous feeling of interior space. A diagonally arranged roofbar barely breaks the elegant, seemingly uninterrupted flow of the tinted glass surface.

The highlights of the car's exterior design — modern style, individual character, sporty performance, and unparalleled diversity — also characterise the interior, taking up and repeating the contrast of high-gloss white and black surfaces. Kia No3 clearly demonstrates the highlights of Kia's future in interior design, with the focus on sophisticated materials, top-quality finish, stylish features, and the most advanced IT technology — all combined with a contemporary lifestyle feeling.

Kia No3 is the forerunner of future production model which will combine compact B-segment exterior dimensions with the interior spaciousness and versatility that is more typical of a C-segment car. The concept's name 'Kia No3' is related to the production car's position (third in terms of size after Picanto and Rio) in the future Kia model line-up.

The new Citra from Kia Carens

This is about the new Citra from Kia Carens/Rondo

The new Citra II is adapted from the latest Kia Carens/Rondo and is a full model change. It rides on Kia’s MG platform which is also used for the latest Optima sedan and also has the 2-litre petrol engine with CVVT (continuously variable valve timing) which puts out 145 ps at 6000 rpm and 189 Nm of torque at 4250 rpm. The engine is the GEMA engine which was jointly developed by Hyundai, Kia, Mitsubishi Motors and Chrysler. Claimed performance with the standard 4-speed electronic automatic Shiftronic transmission (manual sequential shift also possible) is 11 seconds for 0 – 100 km/h and a top speed of 190 km/h.

Sharing the platform with the Optima means it has a front suspension consisting of MacPherson struts hinged off a subframe and 2700 mm away (wheelbase), a rear suspension with a multi-link layout. Surprisingly, the wheelbase is 20 mm shorter than that for the Optima and in fact, the Citra II has a smaller ‘footprint’ than the Optima. However, its roofline is much higher, which tends to give it a somewhat bulbous profile but the explanation is that generous interior headroom was an important consideration.

Disc brakes are fitted to all four wheels and ABS +EBD is standard. There are two wheel sizes – 6Jx15 for the EX version and 6.5Jx16 for the EXS version. Locally-made Goodyear NCT5 tyres are standard rubber.

A lot of effort has gone into bringing down noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) in the Citra II and sources of NVH in both the bodyshell and the powertrain were directly addressed. One example: the use of a dynamic damper, continuously-variable valve and resonance chamber along the exhaust system cuts down NVH significantly. The use of a morse-type timing chain also reduces noise while providing a more durable timing chain.

Keen to make a strong impression in Europe, Kia has given a lot of attention to safety, which European customers are very concerned about. The Citra II gets all the structural features which make the bodyshell strong and both front occupants have the additional protection of airbags. All seven persons in the cabin get seatbelts and head restraints. Also rare in this class is the impact-sensing door unlock system which makes it easier for rescuers to get injured occupants out after an accident.

At RM84,888 (RM4,000 more for the EXS version), the Citra II Rondo is certainly going to challenge the Nissan Grand Livina but Naza-Kia is not looking at beating the Nissan since their target for the Citra II is around 200 units a month (the Grand Livina does about a thousand units a month). It would probably also appeal to Toyota Avanza owners who want to move up but who do not want to get a much bigger MPV like the Innova. With its passenger car platform and dynamics, it should also be an easy transition for those who are moving from a sedan to a MPV.

The new Perodua Kembara

Above is about the new Perodua Kembara

An interview with Perodua managing director Datuk Hafiz Syed Abu Bakar in The Edge Weekly has revealed some plans about Perodua this year. For one, Perodua will be undergoing a rebranding sometime in the middle of the year, which will coincide with the launch of the new Perodua Kembara. The rebranding exercise will also give Perodua a new logo, which will be more of a restyled evolution of the current one rather than something new.

The new Perodua Kembara will come with a 1.5 liter engine (likely the 3SZ-VE) and will have four-wheel drive. It will not be assembled locally by Perodua but will be a CBU import from Japan. It will be a low volume product, and the expected price tag is likely to be more than the Toyota Rush because of its higher specs (the 4WD drivetrain) and Japan sourcing. It will be targetted at the urban, upper-middle income group. Expect the new Perodua Kembara to be based on the short wheel base Daihatsu Terios with a May 2008 launch date.


Another surprise revealed in the article is Perodua’s plans for 2009. Perodua will launch a new three row 6-seater MPV in September 2009. Datuk Hafiz likened it to a Toyota Wish, but a smaller version. I wonder what could this be based on. Can’t really think of any compact 6-seaters from Daihatsu/Toyota other than the Daihatsu Gran Max, but that’s more of a Rusa-like van.

If you read this article by Xinhua News Agency posted on the 5th of March 2008. it is revealed that Toyota and Daihatsu is developing a new MPV in Indonesia. The MPV is set to be launched in 2009. This model is could be the one that the new 2009 Perodua MPV will be based on.

Anyway whatever it is, it’s something to look forward to next year. 2009 seems to be the year of the MPVs.

As Proton gears up for its Proton Exora MPV to be launched next week, our other national carmaker Perodua is also prepping up its Perodua MPV, set to be launched in Q3 this year. The new Perodua MPV is internally called the Perodua D46T codename and is expected to be priced between RM57K to RM66k, according to Perodua MD Datuk Syed Hafiz Syed Abu Bakar in Bernama.

The new Perodua D46T will be based on the Toyota Passo Sette, also known as the Daihatsu Boon Luminas. It measures 4,180mm long, 1,695mm wide and 1,620mm tall, with a long 2,750mm wheelbase to maximize the interior space (2,550mm long).

It sits 6 or 7, depending on how big the people are, but the intention is 7 of course, because some of the Japanese model pix shows 3 headrests for the 2nd row. The same Bernama report also confirmed it will come with a 1.5 liter engine, likely the 3SZ-VE in transverse-mounted front wheel drive configuration.

Facts about MPV concept

This is about MPV concept from Ford

The iosis MAX, on display now at the Geneva Show, is a concept which, on the face of it, seems like a prelude to a future sporty MPV (or MAV - for multi-activity vehicle - as Ford likes to call it).

In fact, it isn't that at all. Ford of Europe's design chief Martin Smith admits that the iosis MAX "isn't a forerunner to a specific production vehicle". Instead it represents the next step forward in Ford's "kinetic" design language, and possibly gives an idea of what future C-segment cars (the equivalent of the current Focus and its derivatives) may look like.

The concept also has more immediate relevance than that, though. It's fitted with a 1.6-litre version of the new EcoBoost petrol engine which is due to be fitted to production Fords starting early next year. It's turbocharged and produces a maximum of just under 180bhp, so straightline performance should be present in abundance, but the main point is that it's another example of the motor industry's gradual move to small, forced-induction engines which give very impressive fuel economy and CO2 emissions in the official EU test, even if those figures are increasingly irrelevant to what owners will actually experience.

With the PowerBoost engine, a stop/start system (also due for introduction in 2010), an "intelligent" alternator which is used only when required and a Powershift automated manual gearbox - which we tested in a Focus a few months ago - with ratios chosen specifically for economy, the iosis MAX has a projected CO2 figure of just 125g/km. That equates to combined fuel economy of just over 50mpg, making the concept comparable to a current 1.25-litre petrol Fiesta.

Mitsubishi Grandis offers modern safety features

Here is Mitsubishi Grandis features.

Mitsubishi Grandis ticks all the boxes for those needing space, performance and economy at a value for money price.

The Japanese company was among the first to enter the MPV market 25 years ago with the Space Wagon and the benefits of this experience are applied to the Grandis.

The entry-level Equippe version I drove is powered by a state-of-the-art 2.0-litre Volkswagen-sourced diesel engine that returns an average fuel economy figure of 43mpg - not bad for a big people carrier.

The oil burner's performance married to a slick six-speed manual gearbox also helps the Grandis feel quite nippy with a 0-62mph time of 10.8 seconds.

Mitsubishi ensures the Grandis competes strongly on price with other seven-seat MPVs and it is also generously kitted out. All models are fitted with climate control, remote central locking, cruise control, six speaker radio/CD autochanger, leather steering wheel and gearknob, alarm and immobiliser, rear parking sensors and a natty display in the rear view mirror that shows you what is going on behind the car.

Step up to the Elegance model and alloy wheels, dual sunroof, stability and traction controls, are among the additions to the mix.

There's a decent three year/unlimited mileage warranty, 12-year anti-corrosion perforation warranty and three years pan-European roadside, home and accident assistance.

The interior of the Grandis marks a major improvement in quality for Mitsubishi. The cabin is smartly styled, with materials that feel as if they will stand up to the attentions of the little monsters in the back.

It also features the Hide & Seat system - a rear row of seats that can be individually folded away into the floor in a simple operation that takes seconds. This clever idea creates extra luggage capacity without the problems of folding, removing, carrying and storing heavy seats. Folding the second and third row of seats boosts luggage space from 320litres to a massive 1545litres.

Grandis offers modern safety features such as EBD (electronic brakeforce distribution), driver and passenger front and side airbags plus curtain airbags for the first and second row of seats.

Get behind the wheel and the car is surprisingly relaxing to drive with a good view guaranteed by the high-up driving position. It is designed with low centre of gravity, long wheelbase and wide tracks for car-like agility and sits on a high-strength steel chassis designed to offer good levels of rigidity and excellent protection in the event of a crash. One quibble though is with the steering which feels over-powered giving little feeling for what is happening on the road.

The Grandis may be a giant but it is quite refined with noise and vibration levels reduced by extensive use of sound-absorbing materials.

Mitsubishi's people carrier rides on a revised rear suspension that has been tuned to provide good levels of passenger ride comfort and a decent drive. Yes some of the bigger bumps can make their presence felt in the cabin and cornering at pace is not one of its strengths - but by and large journeys are pretty smooth. Basically like most people carriers the Grandis is a cruiser rather than a country lane bruiser.

FAST FACTS:

Mitsubishi Grandis 2.0 DI-D Equippe

Price: £18,999

Mechanical: 134bhp, 1,968cc, 4cyl turbodiesel engine driving front wheels via 6spd manual gearbox

Max speed: 121mph

0-62mph: 10.8secs

Combined mpg: 43

Insurance group: 14

CO2 emissions: 176g/km

BiK rating: 26%

Warranty: 3yrs/unlimited mileage, 6yrs anti-rust, 6yrs paint

Honda achive the award 'Best MPV Medium'

Honda successful achieve.

Automotive Award at the 2009 event that took place on 2 May 2009, the car Hatchback are the
All New Honda Jazz successfully achieve the title of Car Of The Year in 2009 after surpass 21 other car brand has been assessed by the jury Automotive Award independently. In addition to successfully achieve the title of ‘Car Of The Year 2009′, All New Jazz category also awarded ‘Best Hatchback Low’.
Not only the All New Jazz just get the award, the production car that Honda also received other awards as the best vehicle to be marketed during the year 2008. Honda CRV successfully achieve the award ‘Best MPV Medium’, and Honda Civic also successfully achieved the award category ‘Best Medium Sedan’.
About the title ‘Car Of The Year 2009′ be the All New Jazz, Jonfis Fandy, Marketing & After sales Service PT. Honda Prospect Motor said, “The All New Jazz achieve the highest degree in any event the more prestigious award reinforces this model as the best model in its class. Beside that Toyota get sixth award at the event AUTOMOTIVE AWARD 2009 that is:
1. Toyota Vios – Best Small Sedan
2. Toyota Camry – Best Mied Sedan Premium
3. Toyota Avanza – Best Mini MPV
4. Toyota Kijang Innova – Best Medium MPV
5. Toyota Kijang Innova – Best MPV Diesel
6. Toyota Hilux – Best Budget Low SUV
Automotive Award event in the 2009 Toyota released the new list price. Toyota re-released list of all the unit price of Toyota in May 2009, valid Jakarta area. Compared to April 2009 have not changed in that unit except Land Cruiser Haga (LC). Please download the list price Official Toyota Month in May 2009. Then you scroll down to the bottom and note the price of a new LC Diesel.

New MPV features

Above is about Perodua MPV features.

Gearbox

The most unique feature that we rarely see on other car is the gear shifter position. The gear shifter in the new MPV will be placed beside the steering. Which means we can have more space in front seat perhaps even sit 3 people. Sound's great to me.

Besides that, the gearbox for new MPV will be CVT transmission. It is a type of semi auto gearbox which can be function as both manual and auto. So it will have the benefit of auto convenience and manual's fuel saving ability.

Automated rain wiper

This is another unique feature provided in the new MPV that we cannot found on its same class. This feature operates by adding a sensor element so that the rain wiper can be adjusted to appropriate wiping speed according to the raining condition. It even can be switched on automatically when there is a rain. Smart feature that eliminate the need for us to control the wiper when rain provide us with more focus on the road.


Automated 2nd row and 3rd row seat folding.

Another smart feature that makes the MPV be the first of its class. This functions operate with a electric motor to fold the seat automatically with the touch of a button. This feature normally only can be seen in luxury mpv.

Coming soon: New Perodua MPV

It's about new MPV.

An interview with Perodua managing director Datuk Hafiz Syed Abu Bakar in The Edge Weekly has revealed some plans about Perodua this year. For one, Perodua will be undergoing a rebranding sometime in the middle of the year, which will coincide with the launch of the new Perodua Kembara. The rebranding exercise will also give Perodua a new logo, which will be more of a restyled evolution of the current one rather than something new.

The new Perodua Kembara will come with a 1.5 liter engine (likely the 3SZ-VE) and will have four-wheel drive. It will not be assembled locally by Perodua but will be a CBU import from Japan. It will be a low volume product, and the expected price tag is likely to be more than the Toyota Rush because of its higher specs (the 4WD drivetrain) and Japan sourcing. It will be targetted at the urban, upper-middle income group. Expect the new Perodua Kembara to be based on the short wheel base Daihatsu Terios with a May 2008 launch date.

Another surprise revealed in the article is Perodua’s plans for 2009. Perodua will launch a new three row 6-seater MPV in September 2009. Datuk Hafiz likened it to a Toyota Wish, but a smaller version. I wonder what could this be based on. Can’t really think of any compact 6-seaters from Daihatsu/Toyota other than the Daihatsu Gran Max, but that’s more of a Rusa-like van.

Anyway whatever it is, it’s something to look forward to next year. 2009 seems to be the year of the MPVs.

Prime concept of Proton Exora

This is about prime concept of Proton Exora.

Proton Design showcased two modified Proton Exora MPVs at the launch of the Exora. Some of you may have already seen these cars during the live telecast on TV1, but here is a closer look at the two vehicles. This is the white one called the Proton Exora Prime. Here’s the stuff that Proton Design added to the Exora Prime:

• Pearl White Exterior
• Double Fin Front Bumper Grille
• Corporate Graphic At FR Door Trim
• High Gloss Black Side Mirrors
• High Glass Black Roof
• Wrap-around Satin Galvano Foglamp Garnish
• Customised Side Skirts
• Customised Rear Apron with Integrated Exhaust
• Customised Satin Galvano Glass Trim
• Clear Rear Brake Lamps
• Tinted Glass
• 17 inch Wheels with 215/45R17 tyres
• 2-DIN DVD player with integrated GPS
• Rear view mirror with integrated LCD for reverse camera
• 1st and 2nd row pilot seats with integrated LCD and mobile theater system
• Cooler box for the floor console