10 cars to look out for in 2019
WITH the new year just around the corner, anticipation is building on what new car models will make it to our shores. We already have an idea based on overseas test drives, local previews from some car makers in the preceding months and also what have been shown in the recently concluded Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show 2018 (KLIMS’18).
Here are some of the models expected to make 2019 another exciting year for the car business.
Lexus UX
THE Lexus UX or urban crossover is the premium marque’s first entry into the compact SUV segment.
Built on a new Global Architecture Compact (GA-C) platform, the UX is said to have the lowest centre of gravity in the segment, which provides a dynamic and sure-footed handling akin to that of a sporty coupe.
In the cabin, new materials such as the Japanese paper Washi texture features strongly on the trim while the leather seats use a Sashiko quilted upholstery, giving it better wear resistance.
It also has the largest heads-up display in its class, a new 7-inch fully digital combination meter cluster, a 10.3-inch EMV display in the centre console and a 8-speaker Lexus Premium Audio system.
Powered by a 2.0-litre engine that produces 169hp, the UX also has a Lexus-first technology for its transmission.
Its new gearbox uses a mechanical first gearbox to provide spirited acceleration from start, before the continuously variable transmission (CVT) takes over for a smoother drive and impressive fuel economy.
Lexus ES
THE seventh-generation Lexus ES executive sedan has an all-new design that features an elegant, sharp and graceful outlook.
Its design accentuates the Lexus design language with the Spindle Grille.
An all-new drivetrain that matches a new 2.5-litre engine mated to a direct-shift 8-speed automatic transmission, a Lexus first), offers linear and quiet acceleration.
For the driver, there’s a highly-intuitive information system providing all the driving parameters through a large 12.3-inch EMV display and a 7-inch TFT full digital combination meter.
A heads-up display - the largest in its class - reduces the amount of eye movement required thereby making driving safer.
The ES also has the Lexus Safety System+, Lexus’ state-of-the-art active safety system that combines various high-tech features that aims to prevent or minimise the severity of an accident.
Toyota Vios
THE new Vios, now available for pre-order from RM77,200, is available in three versions sporting a continuously variable transmission and the same 1.5-litre Dual VVT-i four-cylinder petrol engine delivering 107PS and 140Nm of torque.
Due to appear in showrooms by March next year, the new Vios gets changes to the front and rear, with the cabin updated along with a steering wheel taken from the Corolla Altis.
While the exterior of the Vios is mostly new, it is built on the previous generation model’s platform.
In terms of dimensions, the new Vios is 5mm longer (4,415mm) and 30mm wider (1,730mm) than the outgoing model, while maintaining the same height (1,475mm) and wheelbase (2,550mm).
The standard kit includes seven airbags, Hill-start Assist Control and automatic air-conditioning.
Depending on variant, additional kit includes blind spot detection, panoramic camera, a dashcam, lane departure warning and paddle shifters.
Perodua SUV
Due to Perodua’s technical partner Daihatsu being part of the Toyota group, speculation in the Internet is that Perodua’s new sports utility vehicle will be similar to the current generation Toyota Rush.
While Perodua has not openly commented on this, it has displayed the new SUV at KLIMS’18 in a special enclosure with peep holes.
The company has also started running advertisements with teaser images from last week showing a stylish vehicle with roof rails, headlamps featuring LED daytime running light strips, and a chromed grille with the Perodua logo.
The Perodua advertisements also said the seven-seater energy-efficient vehicle will be equipped with the Advanced Safety Assist version 2.0 with pedestrian detection, six airbags and promises a frugal fuel consumption of 15.6km per litre.
In addition, its 1.5-litre engine qualifies buyers for fuel subsidy under Budget 2019.
BMW X5
The fourth generation of the BMW X5 is significantly larger than its predecessor and has a host of chassis systems making their debut in a BMW X model – such as two-axle air suspension, Integral Active Steering and the Off-Road package – thus enhancing the car’s versatility, dynamic ability and comfort levels.
The new X5 comes as standard with LED headlights, and folding down the 40:20:40 split rear seat backrest increases boot capacity from 645 litres to a maximum 1,860 litres.
Other new features designed to maximise well-being on board the BMW X5 include multifunction seats, cooled/heated cupholders, the Panorama glass roof Sky Lounge, Dynamic Interior Light, the Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System, the Rear-seat entertainment Professional system with 10.2-inch touchscreen display and glass applications for selected controls.
The X5 comes as standard with Dynamic Damper Control, and it also has a two-section tailgate for ease of loading.
It will be available from launch with a choice of one V8 and three six-cylinder in-line engines. All will team up with an eight-speed Steptronic transmission.
BMW 3 Series
The new BMW 3 Series (G20) sedan is bigger than its predecessor and comes with full LED headlights as standard and the twice longer range laser-type as an option.
It weighs up to 55kg less than the corresponding predecessor model, and equipment includes Lane Departure Warning, plus Collision and Pedestrian Warning with City Braking function, the latest version of which also alerts the driver when a cyclist is detected.
It also gets the artificial intelligence-powered and voice-activated Personal Assistant that can learn the owner’s preferences and can be used to set infortaiment, navigation and other vehicular functions.
The standard-fitted suspension and optional M Sport suspension both include lift-related dampers, are making their debut in a BMW model.
They make a major contribution to the balance between sportiness and comfort – unmatched by any rival – which defines the character of the new 3 Series Sedan.
An option is the Reversing Assistant, which can reverse the vehicle for distances of up to 50m by steering it along exactly the same line it has just taken when moving forward.
Mazda3
Unveiled at this year’s Los Angeles Auto Show, the all-new Mazda3 adopts a matured Kodo Design language that makes the car more of a head-turner on the road.
In North America, the powertrain line-up includes SKYACTIV-X, a new kind of combustion engine that combines the advantages of petrol and diesel engines.
Its innovative Spark-Controlled Compression Ignition system allows the selection of gear settings that accentuate performance without sacrificing fuel economy.
Besides a more driver-oriented cockpit, the interior is made even more comfortable and upscale, especially with a clear and expressive sound system with speakers positioned to deliver sound directly to the driver’s ears.
DS 7 Crossback
For those unfamiliar with this French marque, DS Automobiles is the premium brand of Groupe PSA which also owns Peugeot and Citroen.
Previewed at KLIMS’18 by Naza Euro Motors, the new DS 7 Crossback comes loaded with premium features such as DS Active LED Vision headlamps for optimum illumination at night, a top-flight 14-speaker Focal Electra hi-fi system, and a clock by luxury watch maker BRM.
Resembling faceted jewels, the LED modules of the headlamps emit a purple light when the car is unlocked, before pivoting progressively by 180 degrees for a pleasing visual effect.
The contemporary interior features two 12-inch screens for the navigation system, multimedia interface, DS connectivity and digital instrument cluster.
A range of petrol-powered units mated to an Efficient Automatic Transmission with 8-speeds (EAT8) is available, and there’s also a plug-in hybrid petrol drivetrain.
Honda HR-V RS
The new HR-V RS variant gets a new exterior featuring Honda’s Signature design, the “Solid Wing Face” concept with new LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, LED fog lights and rear combi LED guide lights.
This new variant comes with 18-inch dualtone alloy wheels, sporty design front grille and new front and rear bumper.
New detailing such as a dark chrome outer handle, black chrome license garnish, sport black side sill and even mesh fog garnish provides a fresh feel to the RS variant.
While the variant retains the 1.8-litre SOHC i-VTEC engine mated to a CVT, driving excitement is elevated by a new Variable Gear Ratio (VGR) steering system that is more responsive.
Honda claims the driver get the best of two worlds - quick and nimble steering feel in city driving condition and stable steering feel on the highway.
The SUV also comes with paddle shifters, 8-way driver power seat, sports pedals and Honda LaneWatch - a camera system mounted on the passenger side mirror to minimise blind spots.
Mitsubishi Triton
The new Mitsubishi Triton pick-up truck is due to be launched in five variants by the first quarter of 2019 and will be imported as a Completely Built-up Unit (CBU) from Thailand.
Prices will range from RM100,000 to RM140,000 for Peninsular Malaysia.
The latest Triton’s front fascia features the latest iteration of Mitsubishi’s Dynamic Shield design language with slim headlights flanking the grille and fog lamps with the indicators tucked into the corners.
It is powered by a 2.4-litre MIVEC turbodiesel with variable valve timing and Variable Geometry Turbo (VGT) to produce 181ps and 430Nm of torque.
It has a six-speed automatic transmission and also, a Super Select 4WD II with Off-road mode.
Safety features include Forward Collision Mitigation, Ultrasonic Mis-acceleration Mitigation System, Rear Cross Traafic Alert, Blind Spot Warning with Lane Change Assist and Automatic Highbeam.