CarSifu Editors’ Choice Awards 2019
THE fourth edition of the CarSifu Editors’ Choice Awards once again honoured the best cars launched in the past 12 months, and here, we highlight the reasons behind the selection of award winners.
A panel of CarSifu judges arrived at their conclusions after evaluating short-listed cars in key areas such as safety, performance, comfort, fuel economy, handling, styling as well as their individual “wow” factor.
This year’s awards saw a major change with the replacement of a single “Car of the Year” winner by three “Car of the Year” winners based on geographic origins (namely Local, Asian and Continental Car of the Year).
This year, the awards presentation organised by Star Media Group, was held at Hotel Istana, Kuala Lumpur.
Carlsberg was the official beer sponsor while the official tyre was Toyo Tires and Silverstone.
Local Car of the Year 2019 Proton X70 Premium
Even before its official launch in Malaysia, the X70 was easily one of the most searched items on the Internet by Malaysians. Now with its strong sales achievement, the X70 has not only proven itself as a popular SUV but has also restored Proton as a much desirable brand for Malaysians.
The top-of-the-line X70 Premium comes with value, styling, and convenience as well as safety features that are clearly ahead.
Asian Car of the Year 2019 Toyota Camry 2.5V
Featuring a more sporty body styling and intelligent safety features, the Camry has not only set a new direction for its segment but also extended the Camry’s nameplate appeal to a wider group of buyers.
Built using Toyota’s New Global Architecture, the new Camry easily improves on the handling, ride and comfort levels of earlier generations.
Continental Car of the Year 2019 Volvo XC40 T5
The XC40 T5 continues the resurgence of the Volvo brand in Malaysia with a model that is exciting and trendy.
Its compact dimension makes it suitable for urban motoring, while its combination of powerful engine, premium appointments, and smart and safety features results in a compact luxury vehicle that will appeal to a wider audience.
Best Compact Hatch (below RM70K) Proton Iriz Premium
The Proton Iriz Premium has undergone design changes to make it even more attractive with full-width chrome strip known as the “Ethereal Bow” and Infinite Weave pattern on the front fascia.
The rear features a gloss black strip with the Proton lettering and a larger diffuser for the rear bumper.
The Iriz Premium comes with a 1.6-litre engine that offers 109PS and 150Nm of torque and improved CVT transmission.
It also has new 15-inch two-tone alloy wheels and a black roof, 4G connectivity, voice control and is competitively priced than the previous generation.
Best Compact Sedan (below RM70K) Proton Saga Premium With a price of just below RM40,000, the Saga Premium certainly gives a lot of bang for the buck.
In addition to a spacious trunk,
the Saga Premium also gets an infortainment system with a large 7.0-inch touchscreen with 16GB of internal storage, smartphone connectivity and three USB ports.
Its safety features are also impressive, among them reverse camera, electronic stability control, traction control, hill-hold assist and front parking sensors.
Best Compact Car (above RM70K) Toyota Yaris 1.5G
The new Toyota Yaris 1.5G hatchback comes with the 1.5-litre Dual VVT-i engine with 107PS and 140Nm of torque and is paired to a CVT automatic transmission.
The Yaris shares the same powertrain as the Vios and almost the same dimensions except the Yaris’ length is shorter by 280mm, giving it a trendier appearance.
The 1.5G variant adds on rear disc brakes, chrome outer door handles, an Optitron meter panel with 4.3-inch TFT multi-info display and safety features such as Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
Most Fun Car (1.0L – 1.3L) Kia Picanto GT-Line
Kia jazzes up the Picanto with a GT Line variant that adds premium bits such as Autonomous Emergency Braking and, get this, a sunroof for such a tiny car.
The RM58K also buys two-tone leather seats, cruise control and automatic air conditioning.
All these are eye candy but what will truly surprise is the riotous driving dynamics that this brash little car offers and it will put a big smile on your face.
Best Mid-size Performance Hatch Renault Megane R.S. 280 Cup
Unlike the earlier generations sold in Malaysia, the Megane R.S. 280 Cup now comes with five doors instead of three previously, adding entry and exit convenience for rear passengers.
Featuring an aggressive persona enhanced by Renault Sport, the Megane 280 is equipped with a new 1.8-litre direct injection, twin scroll turbocharged block that delivers 280PS and 390Nm of torque for a 0-100kph dash in 5.8 seconds.
Its 4Control four-wheel steering system, the first-of-its-kind for C-segment vehicles, ensures breath-taking cornering agility as well as impressive stability at high speeds.
Best Mid-size Car Mazda3 2.0 Sedan High Plus
Sculpted in design and dynamic in its drive, the Mazda3 2.0 Sedan High Plus has reset the standard in its segment to become one of the most contemporary sedans right now with its safety equipment, connectivity, comfort as well as driveability which appeals to both everyday drivers and purists alike.
Best Large-size Car Toyota Camry 2.5V
The eighth-generation Camry delivers highly on the luxury quotient as well as improved ride and handling, as it was built using Toyota’s New Global Architecture.
It impresses with its sleek, sporty looks, well-designed premium leather-clad interior and topnotch convenience as well as safety features.
Best Small-size Luxury Car BMW 330i
0ffered with the M Sport package that includes 18-inch Double Spoke Style Orbit Grey light alloy wheels, the 330i cuts a dynamic appearance with its new body styling that exudes energy and poise.
In addition to a powerful 2.0litre turbocharged engine, delivering 258hp and 400Nm of torque, the 330i also gets a suite of smart convenience features, large digital displays and BMW’s first-ever lift-related dampers that continuously function to the changing spring travel to cancel out vibrations that occur when going over rough surfaces.
Best Mid-size Luxury Executive Car Volvo S90 T5
Along comes the Scandinavian underdog that works hard at re-interpreting luxury on its own terms.
It pays off for Volvo, with a rich ensemble that comes with spacious interior and quiet ride.
Its full-suite of active safety and driver-assist systems such as City Safety and Adaptive Cruise Control, among others, makes the S90 T5 one of the safest cars on the road.
Best Compact SUV Perodua Aruz AV
The Perodua Aruz does well within its budget segment stretching to close the gap with the Toyota Rush through amenities and advanced safety features that are impressive at its price point.
Best Compact Crossover Citroen C3 Aircross
This versatile urban B-segment SUV powered by a fuel-efficient 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine stands out with its unique body styling, practicality, safety features and class-leading space.
Highlights include its cargo volume - the 410-litre boot can be increased to a load volume of 520 litres - and a reverse camera with top view.
Best Mid-size SUV/Crossover Subaru XV GT
Being compact and capable, the Subaru XV GT is known for its prowess both on and off-road.
Wearing 17-inch wheels, this is a crossover that’s meant for those with a lifestyle that can be both active and adventurous.
Best Large-size SUV/Crossover (2-Row Seating) Proton X70 Premium
As the first model from the Proton-Geely union, the Proton X70 sets the right tempo in styling, voice command features, digital connectivity and pricing that are hard to beat by its rivals.
The top-of-the-range variant, the X70 Premium, gets even more features, among them the advanced driver’s assistance technology like Autonomous Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning and Blind Spot Information System which were previously available only in more expensive luxury cars.
Best Large-size SUV/Crossover (3-Row Seating) Hyundai Santa Fe R 2.2 CRDi Premium
The Hyundai Santa Fe R 2.2 CRDi Premium is a four-wheel drive, turbodiesel that offers high levels of comfort and quietness and can turn into a rip-roaring road eater too.
The 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine puts out 193PS and 440Nm, and is mated to a new eight-speed automatic and Hyundai’s variable allwheel drive system.
Looks-wise, at the front are dual-tier headlights with a slim row of LED daytime running lights and also the Cascading Grille.
The cabin features the freestanding infotainment display, slim air vents and uses high-quality materials.
The increased length and wheelbase offers the best-in-class legroom for the second row, while third-row headroom has also been increased.
Best Compact Luxury SUV/ Crossover Volvo XC40 T5
Volvo XC40 T5 - In addition to exuding style and flair with large 19-inch wheels and powerful stance, the XC40 T5 is also smart and safe.
Among its key appeal are the adaptive cruise control, semi-autonomous Pilot Assist drive and front and rear Park Assist.
Meanwhile, the City Safety autonomous collision avoidance and mitigation with intersection support, can also detect pedestrians, cyclists and large animals, making the XC40 not just only safe for its occupants.
Its 2.0-litre turbo engine with 252hp coupled to an eight-speed automatic transmission ensures more than adequate power for high-speed outstation drives.
Best Mid-size Luxury SUV/ Crossover Lexus NX 300 Premium
Futuristic meets artistic, the Lexus NX 300 Premium encases its occupants with the perfect blend of what Japanese artisans have to offer and the most modern of designs.
Best Large-size Luxury SUV/ Crossover (2-row Seating) BMW X5 xDrive40i
The fourth-generation X5 has racked up more luxury, more tech, and more safety on top of an option to improve offroad driving.
It also delivers more power and performance since switching from a 4-cylinder engine to a straightsix.
It’s the first X model to get a host of chassis system upgrades such as two-axle air suspension, Integral Active Steering and an Off-Road package to enhance the car’s versatility, dynamic ability and comfort levels.
Driver assistance systems have been expanded to include Driving Assistant Professional and Parking Assistant Plus with Reversing Assistant.
Best Large-size Luxury SUV/ Crossover (3-Row Seating) BMW X7 xDrive40i
Easily one of the largest luxury vehicles on local roads, the X7
sports activity vehicle can be ordered as a seven- or six-seater without compromising individual spaces of all onboard.
Despite its size, the X7’s combination of 3.0-litre in-line six cylinder turbo engine with 340hp, intelligent air-suspension and xDrive all-wheel drive system ensures the vehicle maintains a sporty performance and handling in BMW tradition.
Among its long list of safety features are Lane Departure Warning, Lane Change Warning and front collision warning with brake intervention.
Best Mid-size Performance Luxury SUV/Crossover Mercedes-AMG GLC 63S 4MATIC+
As one of the quickest sports utility vehicles in Malaysia, the GLC 63 S 4MATIC+ with its V8 biturbo engine pumping out an overwhelming 510hp, offers a sports car-like driving excitement, performance and road handling with ample space for five persons on-board.
Despite offering a thrilling drive, the GLC 63 S is luxurious and sporty inside with a black and red theme with Nappa leather and Artico man-made leather.
Best Pick-Up Truck Ford Ranger Raptor
Priced at around RM200,000 - the Ford Ranger Raptor is designed for the true enthusiast off-roader, and is the only factory-built performance truck across Asia Pacific.
It is built to exude brute power, performance and durability and is fitted with high-tech features that help to provide an adrenaline rush in the field.
Best Pick-Up Truck (Manual) Mitsubishi Triton M/T Premium
The new Mitsubishi Triton line-up features a futuristic and unconventional front that easily turns heads.
In addition, its 181PS 2.4-litre turbodiesel with a six-speed manual transmission and Easy Select 4WD, can get any task done on tough terrain.
Other equipment include Electronic Brake Force Distribution, brake assist, Active Stability Control, traction control, brake override system, Hill Start Assist, Trailer Stability Assist and rear parking sen
sors. Best Hybrid Honda HR-V Sport Hybrid This 1.5-litre Sport Hybrid variant of the Honda HR-V offers a more refined and powyet erful drive much more fuel economical powertrain, as well as a standard array of generous safety features.
The seven-speed dual clutch transmission here is a smooth and fluid shifter, and the HR-V Hybrid still has abundant boot space at 404 litres.
Best Plug-in Hybrid Mercedes-Benz S 560e
The flagship of the ‘Three-Pointed Star’ - the Mercedes-Benz S 560 e, is not only the finest in its class but also one of the most powerful yet environmentally friendly.
With a total system output of 476hp and 700Nm of torque, the S Class is capable of sprinting from 0 to 100kph in 5.0 seconds along with an electronically-limited top speed of 250kph.
It is also able to provide up to 50km of emission-free driving.
Best Electric Vehicle Nissan LEAF
Priced at nearly RM190,000 - the new Nissan LEAF can travel 311km on a full charge of its 40kWh lithium-ion battery pack.
Besides decent comfort features and premium Nissan Safety Shield technologies, the LEAF has an innovative e-Pedal technology which almost eliminates the need to step on the brake pedal.
Best Luxury Lifestyle Coupe/ Cabriolet Jaguar F-Type Coupe
The refreshed Jaguar F-TYPE P300 coupe has a powerful 2.0-litre turbocharged Ingenium engine and sports improved visual appeal and interior enhancements, including new futuristic LED headlights and rear lights as well as lightweight slim line seats.
The F-Type now features the Touch Pro, the most advanced infotainment system Jaguar has to offer.
Best Design Ferrari F8 Tributo
Forever steeped in sterling racing heritage, the Ferrari F8 Tributo looks stunning with its low-slung appearance, scalloped door intakes, twin circular tail lights and vertical concave rear screen.
Best High Performance Sports Car Porsche 911 Carrera S
While featuring a coupe-like silhouette and appearance that are similar to the previous generation, the latest 911 has been extensively revamped, now a bigger and longer machine with a more powerful engine delivering 450PS mated to a fast shifting eight-speed dual clutch automatic transmission.
Being a rear-wheel driven vehicle, power does not flow to the front wheels and the steering feel of the 911 Carrera S remains uncorrupted and symbiotic, making this an important plus point for Porsche traditionalists.
Business Ride of the Year Mercedes-Benz S 560e
The Mercedes-Benz S 560e hybrid drive system combines a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 petrol engine with a 121hp electric motor delivers a smooth and almost quiet drive befitting of high net-worth individuals.
Styling-wise, it features a new three-louvre radiator grille as well as new front and rear bumpers.
Inside you will find Nappa leather upholstery and high-gloss brown burr walnut wood trim as well as wood trim on the steering wheel.
The car also gets Energising comfort control and a massage function for the rear seats.
Best Family Ride of the Year (RM50K-RM100K, 3-Row Seating) Proton Exora Premium
As one of the most spacious affordable multi-purpose vehicles around, the updated Proton Exora Premium variant gets a 7-inch touchscreen display with voice command, and an embedded eSIM card and apps for music streaming, online navigation and weather updates as well as smartphone connectivity.
Also exclusive for the Exora Premium are Electronic Stability Control and a reverse camera.
Best Family Ride of the Year (RM100K–RM200K, 3-Row Seating) Peugeot 5008 SUV FL Plus
The locally assembled Peugeot 5008 Plus in flagship Allure grade is armed with a dazzling array of luxury comfort features and safety systems.
It has a powerful 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine and highlights here include an impressive load space of 952 litres, powered front seats, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Blind-Spot Information System.