SUNDAY STAR, 14 JUNE 2015

special

MOTORING

Deals for your festive wheels

The Raya buzz is back

Fresh from FranceWHEN local Peugeot distributor Nasim Sdn Bhd launched the Peugeot 508 nearly four years ago, the French saloon brought a strong sense of style and glamour previously unheard of in the D-segment.

The French carmaker has given the 508 a timely update. It now wears a new face made up of a larger grille flanked by new full-LED headlights that offer better illumination than before. The redesigned taillights boast LED technology and the front and rear bumpers sport a new look, too.

Interior architecture remains largely unchanged but located on the dashboard is a new seven-inch touchscreen multimedia head unit that boasts navigation and reverse camera capabilities.

The touchscreen also allows you to control a 10-speaker JBL surround-sound system with a 10-channel 500W amplifier.

Music lovers can also enjoy their favourite tracks with this audio system, thanks to Peugeots new 8GB Jukebox storage system.

The leather-upholstered cabin boasts typical European-build quality. The quad-zone air-conditioning system that allows dual-zone temperature control in the back sets the 508 apart from similarly priced vehicles.

Unfortunately, the number of cubbyholes in the 508s interior does not stack up well against other market offerings.

Powertrain options remain

unchanged in the facelifted Peugeot 508.

The efficient 1.6-litre petrol engine aided by a twin-scroll turbocharger is offered in the THP variants of the 508 sedan and station wagon.

Its torque-laden 2.2-litre turbo-diesel HDI mill powers on to the pleasure of performance-oriented drivers, but only in a sole sedan variant called the GT.

The THP engine develops 165PS and 240Nm of torque, which propel the 508 to 100kph from a standstill in just 9.2 seconds to a top speed of 220kph.

The higher-capacity HDI engine churns out 206PS and a whopping 450Nm. This output translates to better performance figures for the century sprint of 8.4 seconds and a top speed of 235kph.

Both powertrains offer impressive fuel consumption rates despite their performance the THP does 7.1L/100km while the HDI leads the way with 5.7L/100km.

A quick driving experience in the Peugeot 508 THP sedan justifies these published figures. The French saloon gets up to speed briskly, thanks to the fact that maximum torque is attained from just 1,450rpm. The unchanged six-speed automatic gearbox ensures linear power delivery.

The new Peugeot 508 is a high-speed performer on the highway but is surprisingly nimble around the bends, too.

Steering feedback is precise and nicely weighted while the force-inducted grunt helps the 1.5-tonne car exit corners with ease.

It skates about with impressive agility for a D-segment car despite gaining 38mm in length 16mm of front overhang and 22mm in the rear.

Partially responsible for the 508s surefootedness around the corners is a performance-inclined suspension system.

Unfortunately, this comes at the cost of passengers comfort in the rear, especially on less-than-perfect trunk roads. It is a mild disappointment given Peugeots efforts in employing a multi-link setup in the back.

The ride is otherwise supple as

long as you stay off the cracked tarmac and the NVH performance is also commendable.

Ultimately, occupants can breathe easy no matter how bumpy the roads get as Peugeot offers comprehensive safety features, including six airbags, a blind spot sensor system, electronic stability programme, dynamic stability control and traction control, which are standard across the range.

Prices have been raised slightly, with the facelifted Peugeot 508 now starting above the RM170,000 mark. However, the increase in price is justified with its improved looks, better equipment and an enhanced sense of overall refinement.

Peugeots variety of force-inducted powertrains further sets the 508 apart from its competitor Japanese models.

Ultimately, the 508 has all the makings of a European crowd favourite that will make it a classic down the road.

HARI Raya is coming soon and as always, there will be some who are planning to celebrate the festivity with a new vehicle.

The automotive market offers a variety of options but fine-comb each of them and focus on those that will give you the best deal for your money.

This issue of Star Motoring features a few Hari Raya offers, some of which are good value for money.

Free maintenance packages, discounted part prices and free accessories are some of the perks you can get now with the purchase of a new car.

Here are some of the Raya promotions on offer:

Celebrate in style Naza Euro Motors, the local

distributor for Citroen vehicles, is having Hari Raya promotions at its Glenmarie outlet.

Naza Euro Motors is hosting its Raya Carnival. The two-day carnival started yesterday and ends today.

There are rebates up to RM20,000 for cars and shopping vouchers up to RM9,000 available at the carnival.

Citroen is also offering zero downpayment, 0.88% financing packages and a five-year free service package to eligible buyers.

Early birds will also get a free tinting service.

For Citroen owners, there is an after-sales promotion, which started on May 15 and ends July 31.

There is a 30% discount on parts required for changing engine mountings, timing belts

and brakes. You can also have an oil change

(fully synthetic engine oil only), and receive a complimentary gift.

Available during the promotion is also a complimentary car wash and free 15-point safety inspection.

n For more information, call 1800 222 808 or visit www.citroen.com.my

Service BonanzaNaza Kia Malaysia is having its

2 motoringSUNDAY STAR, 14 JUNE 2015

The Peugeot 508 is better equipped and looks more refined than its predecessors.

The Peugeot 508 comes with a new multimedia head unit.

Visit a Kia showroom to check out its Service Bonanza.

Citroen models with attractive deals are available this festive season.

Service Bonanza for this upcoming festive season.

From now until July 31, there is a 10% discount for genuine parts and you can receive a free multi-point inspection and free car wash.

You also stand a chance to win a trip to South Korea under the fourth edition of the Kia Go-XTRA contest.

n For more information, call 1800 888 542 or visit www.nazakia.com.my

Offers for the adventurous THE Jeep Fair, organised by Jeep Malaysia, is open until today (June 14) at the Jeep Glenmarie showroom. The fair started on June 6.

Jeep aficionados will be tempted by many exclusive offers, starting with rebates worth up to RM45,000 (terms and conditions apply) on any Jeep model.

You also stand a chance to receive a free iPhone 6 for any successful purchase/booking (terms and conditions apply) during this promotional period.

Jeep Malaysia is also offering a free accessories package by Mopar upon purchase of a Jeep Wrangler.

Customers can either opt for the cash rebate or take the RM25,000 accessories package instead.

The Wrangler Unlimited Sport will be discounted by RM15,000 and the Wrangler Unlimited Sahara by RM25,000.

Of course, a Jeeps capability can only be proven in driving. Test drive any Jeep model and be rewarded with not just a memorable experience, but premium gifts as well (terms and conditions apply).

Mopar, the source for all original equipment manufactured parts and accessories for Jeep vehicles, is currently offering a free 20-point vehicle inspection for Jeep, Chrysler and Dodge vehicles, including a 10% discount on selected spare parts.

A free gift will also be given with each inspection while stocks last.

The Mopar promotion is valid from now until to June 30 and is exclusively for Jeep, Chrysler and Dodge vehicles built in 2007 and onwards.

Come with your family and experience this special event. Refreshments are served throughout the day.

If you miss these dates, catch the next road show at 1 Utama Shopping Mall from June 17 to 21.

n For more information or to book a test drive, call 03-5565 7851/7852 or 1800 88 JEEP (5337) or visit www.jeep.my

Jeep models are made more affordable during the Jeep Fair.

(From left) Datuk Samson Anand George, chief operating officer of Nasim Sdn Bhd; Lionel Faugeres, general director for Asean countires at Automobiles Peugot; and S. K. Bhadra, director of UDH Ventures Sdn Bhd officiating the launch of Peugeot Service Klang on June 10.

SUNDAY STAR, 14 JUNE 2015

motoring 3

Service centre launchedPEUGEOT opened the doors of its newest service centre in Klang on June 10. This is its 28th service centre in the country and is operated by UDH Ventures Sdn Bhd.

Officiating the launch were Datuk Samson Anand George, chief operating officer of Nasim Sdn Bhd, Lionel Faugeres, general director for Asean countries at Automobiles Peugeot and S. K. Bhadra, director of UDH Ventures Sdn Bhd.

This new service centre is a welcome addition to the Peugeot network that will benefit the about 2,000 or more Peugeot owners nearby who used to travel quite a distance to their nearest service centre.

Located off Jalan Klang Banting and just a stones throw from Bandar Botanic Klang, Peugeot Service Klang is easy to find and has ample parking space.

Peugeot Service Klang has an expected turnover capacity of 20 cars a day, with highly skilled and experienced technical staff working there.

Services offered range from basic oil changes to major repairs such as engine overhauls.

Peugeot Service Klang is equipped with the latest Peugeot Planet System (PPS) Diagnostic Tool and special service tools.

In conjunction with the launch, Peugeot Service Klang is holding a Hari Raya promotion and will offer original merchandise Peugeot T-shirts to every customer from now to July 15. On top of that, a lucky winner will take home an iPad Mini.

According to Azhanudin Azman, managing director of UDH Ventures Sdn Bhd, this contest will offer a good reason for Peugeot owners in the nearby areas to service their cars and get them checked before they balik kampung for Hari Raya.

Peugeot Service Klang is the first Peugeot Service Centre in the country to offer an online booking facility for service appointments.

This complements the usual over-the-phone booking method also employed by the service centre.

n To make a service appointment, call the service booking hotline at 016-622 9002 or visit www.udhventures.com

A turbocharged driveIN 2006, MINI (a British automotive marque under the wing of the BMW Group) stunned the world with the R55 MINI Clubman. The trait of the Clubman that

caught everyones attention was the asymmetric distribution of doors on the car the car has only one door on its left and two on its right.

The feature is considered unique and few imagined seeing this concept reinterpreted by a Korean carmaker.

Five years later, Hyundai surprised everyone with the launch of the Veloster. The three-door coupe improved on MINIs concept by placing the two-door side on the passenger side of the car.

In the Clubman, this door was placed on the right, which made roadside exits tricky for passengers in right-hand-drive markets.

Local distributor Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) launched the Veloster locally in 2012 but only with a normally aspirated (non-turbocharged) powertrain option.

The unique Korean offering had the makings of a performance coupe but its 132PS Gamma engine was rather sluggish.

HSDM listened to its market, which is why the feistier Hyundai Veloster Turbo deserves a go on Malaysian roads.

Priced at RM148,119 (nearly RM20,000 more than the non-turbo variant), the Veloster Turbo is endowed with 186PS and 265Nm of torque that propel the car from

0kph to 100kph in eight seconds, up to a top speed of 214kph.

Apart from the aid of a turbocharger, the Veloster Turbo further differentiates itself from the entry-spec Veloster Premium with the use of a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT).

Interestingly, the DCT used in the Veloster Turbo is free of unnerving jerks, even at low speeds.

This comes at the cost of speed it does not change gears with the

same swiftness as DCTs used to great effect in the Velosters European rivals.

However, excitement can still be drawn from this DCT, thanks to a pair of neat paddle shifts that bring back the touch of engagement that manual transmissions are known for.

Throttle response is not as effective as there is a hint of lag between the moment you place your right foot on the accelerator

to the Veloster Turbo launcing into action.

An hour of acclimatising to the throttle is all thats needed to get the best out of the Gamma engine, after which the amped-up powertrain really comes off as a rather refined and athletic combination.

It helps that the Velosters chassis, suspension and steering feedback are all aligned with the engines sporty aspirations.

4 motoringSUNDAY STAR, 14 JUNE 2015

The chassis takes corners well and it stays well-planted at high speeds while the suspension, though firm, is hardly ever jarring.

The electrically aided steering once a bane of Korean cars is surprisingly well weighted, especially when the flex steer system is switched to sport mode. Hyundai has hit all the right notes in the ride and handling department.

Unfortunately, the Veloster Turbo struggles to replicate the balance of performance and practicality evident in five-door hatchbacks such as the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Ford Focus ST.

However, compared with a traditional two-door coupe, the single rear door adds a dimension of practicality while the rear seats provide comfort for adults who are going on short journeys. The three-door novelty is refreshing, too.

That said, the Veloster Turbo is a tempting proposition for those who want a sub-RM150,000 runabout that stands out with unique looks and a spirited performance.

Hyundai could still afford improvements on the throttle response while staunch purists may prefer a manual option but the pros outweigh the cons this time around, making this a decent car that you will have fun driving.

The Hyundai Veloster sports the unique three-door design.

Bike legend makes wavesKAWASAKI Malaysia has always been at the forefront of the two-wheel motoring market.It was the first to launch the Asean CKD big bikes and make them more affordable.

Kawasaki Malaysia is the major force pushing the 250cc market in the country.

It has no less than five 250cc models to offer at prices that most Malaysians can afford.

In fact, owning a Kawasaki is considered the gateway into the big biking scene for some Malaysians.

Recently, Kawasaki Malaysia once again made news when Malaysia became the second country after Japan to launch the H2 and H2R models in the market.

Built to commemorate the many successes of Kawasaki Heavy Industries group, the two bikes are highly impressive.

For instance, one of Kawasakis keys to success is its power turbines and that is why the H2 and H2R machines have supercharged engines.

The H2s 998cc four-cylinder, water-cooled engine produces more than 207nhp and the supercharger is built from a block of alloy to ensure that the movement of the blades remains balanced at above 130,000rpm. These details make the H2 the epitome of a superbike.

Kawasaki then took it one step further with the H2R. This carbon fibre, track-only machine uses the

same engine, but unbridled, to produce 319bhp. This means that theoretically, the H2R can go faster than 400kph.

The H2 exhibits a lot of power, even from very low engine speeds. Its aerodynamics work well and it takes corners easily.

The throttle response is very smooth, which means most riders will enjoy this bike.

engine that produces 319bhp. It wheelies until the fourth gear

but the bike is rock solid each time the nose is pointed upwards. Cornering can prove to be tricky for inexperiened riders but, with some dedicated practice, the bike

The H2 helps build your confidence and it will not be long before you are zooming off and lapping tracks at amazing speeds.

This road rocket can be registered on the road and is priced around RM150,000.

The track-only H2R requires riders with a bit more riding experience who can handle a bike

can be controlled. Kawasaki engineers have also

dialled up stability in the bikes handling.

Priced at RM240,000, the H2R is a bike to own that will be spoken of for a long time to come.

The Kawasaki H2 can be considered the epitome of a superbike.

The H2s aerodynamics work well and take corners smoothly.

The H2 sports a supercharged engine.

SUNDAY STAR, 14 JUNE 2015

motoring 5

Hitting the streets in styleFORD EcoSport fills the void left by the Perodua Kembara that was popular a while ago. However, where Perodua offered a basic urban compact SUV, Ford offers drivers something more premium at an affordable price with the Ford Ecosport.

Using Fords styling, the EcoSport is assembled in Fords modern plant in Rayong. The only available engine for the Malaysian market is the 1.5-litre Ti-VCT engine, mated to the Getrag six-speed dual-clutch power shift automatic transmission (similar to the one used in the Fiesta 1.5-litre model).

Even though the EcoSport is based on the Fiestas hatchback platform, Ford engineers have stretched it to build a roomier vehicle. However, the EcoSport is still shorter than the new Honda Jazz.

The EcoSports wheelbase is 2,519mm and its overall length 4,273mm. It comes with a 52-litre fuel tank and a large boot with a storage capacity of 362 litres.

The EcoSport crossover sits 20cm above ground, which is just 3.3cm lower than the Ford Ranger double cab pickup truck.

This does not mean that the EcoSport should be driven on jungle trails because as a true

urban crossover, it is driven only by its front wheels.

This is fine for most drivers as many would rarely find the need to go off-road when living in urban areas.

The Titanium spec gives you a leather interior, electrically operated sunroof, push-start ignition, keyless entry, automatic headlights and wipers, digital air-conditioning control and 16-inch alloy wheels.

The Titanium also comes with the safety pack that consists of seven airbags with an airbag placed under the steering column to soften the impact on the drivers knees in the event of an accident.

Electronic driving aids such as stability control, traction control, hill launch-assist, Isofix mounts, anti-lock braking system and emergency break assist are available in the Titanium and lower spec Trend variant, which is

6 motoringSUNDAY STAR, 14 JUNE 2015

The Ford EcoSport is spacious and suitable for urban drivers.

priced less by RM10,000.Ford has also included the

Microsoft Sync voice command system in the EcoSport. The Sync needs a bit of getting used to if you want to effectively utilise its hi-tech features.

You can command it using your voice to play a certain track from your iPod, switch to radio mode and change the frequency or make a call from your mobile phone connected through Bluetooth.

Leather interior and smart functions enhance the Ford EcoSport.

The EcoSport comes with a large boot.

Sync can even read out the messages you receive on your mobile phone.

As a chic urban crossover, the EcoSport is a great car to have. Ford currently has attractive deals for this model.

Check them out at the nearest Ford dealer and experience the EcoSport for yourself.

Spotlight on new concept

SINCE its inception in 1919, Citroen has sold more than 50 million vehicles globally.

To commemorate its success, the company has released a new concept car that exhibits the design of its future SUV, the Aircross Concept.

With the success of its C4 Cactus model, the Aircross replicates the Cactus design philosophy but strengthens it even more.

While the Airbump technology introduced in the C4 Cactus protects the cars body from everyday bumps and scrapes, the Aircross also includes alloy bumps to protect the car from lateral impact.

Made of a highly absorbent aluminium honeycomb structure, it combines lightness and style to benefit users of this SUV.

Other new technologies introduced in the Aircross include

the Air Signs, which is a chrome-finished styling that surrounds each window to form an air-flow tunnel, and the Air Curtains, which are air intakes located at the front of this SUV.

Together, the two features are coupled with the front and rear wheel arch extractors to improve the overall aerodynamics of the SUV.

Power comes from a plug-in hybrid petrol engine with an electric motor on the rear axle. The latter produces 95hp and 200Nm of torque.

The lithium-ion batteries can be fully charged in three and a half hours via a 16A domestic socket.

The engine in front is a 1.6-litre THP petrol unit that develops a whopping 218hp and 275Nm of torque.

The Aircross can perform the century dash in 4.5 seconds.

SUNDAY STAR, 14 JUNE 2015

motoring 7

The Citroen Aircross concept is designed to be strong and stylish.

The Citroen Aircross concept embodies sleek modern design in an SUV.

On batteries alone, the Aircross can be driven for 50km.

Its fuel consumption is an impressive 1.7L/100 km and it has a carbon dioxide emission rate of 39g/km.

At this point, Citroen is adamant that the concept will soon materialise and with this trusted brand, one can be assured that the final product will not stray too far from this concept.

The ultimate getaway carKIA has always been at the forefront of automotive design and one of its latest concepts is the Sportspace, which is designed at Kias European Design Centre in Frankfurt, Germany.

This is a vehicle that plays high on practicality and is designed to be an everyday car with a style of a chic urban car.

It sports the classic lines of a grand tourer and is able to travel miles for an ideal holiday getaway.

Gregory Guillaume, chief designer for Kia Europe, says that the Sportspace is not a sedan, wagon, hatchback or shooting-brake.

Kia refuses to be bound under any category, which is something favoured by drivers who want to be different.

The D-pillar is forward-positioned, styled more like a hatchback. The edges cut into the body to enhance the raked looks and make the appearance less wagon-like.

The front grille uses Kias tiger nose signature design while the Plexiglass inserts in the grille are actually louvered and can be rotated to allow more air intake when required.

Powerful aluminium satin strips above the ice-cube LED headlights give the car a

determined appearance. The turn signals in front are hidden in the chin spoiler, which is also treated in the same satin aluminium.

The cabin space is large and there is generous rear seat legroom to give maximum comfort to rear passengers.

An innovative addition is the 20

rolling balls embedded within the leather boot floor to ease cargo loading.

The cockpit is simple and is made up of exotic materials such as carbon fibre and milled, anodised aluminium.

A unique feature is the placement of the central air-

conditioning vents. Kia has placed them into the centre tunnel below the dashboard.

Hand-woven cuoio intrecciato seats are trimmed with black-polished leather, backed by carbon-fibre shells and offer good posture to passengers and driver.

The free-standing metal door

pulls are shaped to be grasped naturally by your hand.

Under the hood, a compact two-litre T-GDI (turbocharged gasoline direct injection) engine kicks out 250hp to the front tyres.

We can hope that this cool concept will materialise because the automotive industry needs something as stylish as this at a price that everyone can afford.

8 motoringSUNDAY STAR, 14 JUNE 2015

The KIA Sportspace is designed to be a chic, everyday ride.

The leather boot floor is designed for easy cargo loading.

The sleek, stylish interior of the KIA Sportspace.

001_PULLOUT_SP02_NAT_14062015_SUN002_PULLOUT_SP02_NAT_14062015_SUN003_PULLOUT_SP02_NAT_14062015_SUN004_PULLOUT_SP02_NAT_14062015_SUN005_PULLOUT_SP02_NAT_14062015_SUN006_PULLOUT_SP02_NAT_14062015_SUN007_PULLOUT_SP02_NAT_14062015_SUN008_PULLOUT_SP02_NAT_14062015_SUN