New Mercedes C180K BlueEfficiency with 1.6L engine!

In this age of relentlessly spiralling oil prices, Mercedes-Benz will launch a new range of fuel efficient C-Class saloons at Geneva 2008 with the tag BlueEfficiency, a term probably coined as an extension from its BLUETEC technology applied to its CDI turbodiesel engines.

The pertinent model to Malaysian market – and likely most of ASEAN - will be the new C180 Kompressor which, now hear this, has an even smaller displaced 1597cc 4-pot beating under the hood! It was previously a 1796cc in-line 4.

Impressively, maximum power output has been maintained 156hp, along with 230Nm worth of torque, same ratings versus the 'old' 1.8L supercharged M271. This new C180K can cover 100 kilometres with just 6.5 litres of petrol. The previous 1.8L powered C180K needs an additional 0.9L of petrol to get the job done. The new econo-power C180K will sprint to 100km/h in 9.5secs, on the way to a top end of 230km/h.

Apart from a smaller capacity petrol engine, better aerodynamics with a CD factor of 0.25 (versus standard C-Class’ 0.27) and weight savings from the new alloy wheels, lighter plus lower rolling resistance Michelins, engine bay firewall foams and windscreen all adds up to higher fuel efficiency.

The other models offering TrueBlue solutions i.e. higher mileage to every litre of fuel are the new C200 CDI and C350CGI, with direct gasoline injection (finally!).

Proton GEN.2 facelift gets real-deal CPS, VIM and IAFM

Proton Gen.2 1.6 has finally undergone a facelift along with engine"lift" featuring true variable valve timing now in the form of CPS plus VIM (Variable Intake Manifold) for its Hi-Line models. These retail for RM57,488 and RM60,488 for the manual and auto versions respectively. Power output figures are 125bhp at 6500rpm, while torque is 150Nm peaking at 4500rpm.

The Medium-Line models apart from getting just one driver's airbag also ditches CPS in favour of a simpler variable air intake manifold, dubbed IAFM by Proton. Proton claims that the infamous torque dip of its Campro circa 3000rpm is now ironed out, by way of more responsive and constant low to mid-range torque delivery. A case in point is healthier torque delivery of 139Nm at 3000rpm, versus the basic Campro 1.6L (in pre-facelift Gen.2) which only managed 128Nm of torque at the same engine rpm.

In overview, Proton's 1.6L Campro without CPS gives 110bhp at 6000rpm, along with 148Nm of torque at 4000rpm. The M-Line facelifted Gen.2 retails for RM53,488 and RM56,488 with the 5-speed manual and 4 A/T options respectively.

Mazda gets new distributor in Malaysia

Cycle & Carriage Bintang Bhd (CCB) has given up yet another automotive franchise – with its previous Peugeot distributorship having ended by end-2007 – this time surrendering the Mazda brand. BerMaz Motor Sdn Bhd, a unit of Berjaya Corporation will acquire Cycle & Carriage Bintang Bhd’s wholly-owned current Mazda’s franchise holder, Hercules Automotive Engineers Sdn Bhd, for RM16.8million.

BerMaz Motor has sealed a 3 years distribution agreement with Mazda Motor Co. which will take effect as of 1st of April 2008. Berjaya Corp is currently involved with the sole distributorship of Skoda brand and has future prospect set on China’s Changan auto vehicles in Malaysia. With such acquisition, Bermaz Motor Sdn. Bhd. will officially take over all of Mazda’s automotive business in Malaysia by H2 2008.

You may want to read this:

http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2007/10/ccb-gives-up-peugeot-in-malaysia.html

Mitsubishi Lancer Prototype-S: upcoming Euro Lancer Ralliart hatchback

Here are a few images of the new Lancer Prototype-S, which previews the forthcoming Lancer Ralliart Sportback (5door liftback). This sports hatch is rumoured to be mainly for the European market where it is slated to go head-on with the new Subaru Impreza WRX.


It is also expected to mechanically similar to the Lancer Ralliart sedan, as such is powered with a detuned version of the EVO X’s 2.0L Mivec Turbo engine, good for 'only' 240ps and 343Nm of torque. Torque is being driven via MMC's Twin Clutch SST gearbox down to a full-time 4WD (S-AWC) among other things.

Related posts:

http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2007/12/2008-mitsubishi-lancer-ralliart.html

http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2007/08/2008-mitsubishi-lancer-turbo-ralliart.html

You may want to read this:

http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2007/08/full-road-test-mitsubishi-lancer-20-gt.htm

Peugeot Spider 207 in Malaysia now

The Peugeot Spider 207, developed from the Peugeot 20Cup concept-car is an all out race car. Inspired by the Sport Prototype cars of the seventies, with its short front cowling and no spoiler, the Spider 207 has a very particular style.

Equipped with a six-speed Sadev sequential gearbox, with selection controlled by shift paddles, a 1.6L engine, and double wishbone and spring-damper units front and rear, the car has been built to Peugeot’s traditional racing specifications and looks like a safe bet on the track. The Spider 207’s 1.6L 16v/EP6 DTS engine, designed in collaboration with BMW, is the same as that in the 207 RC. The use of specially modified and configured intake and exhaust systems will bring the Spider 207’s maximum power to 175bhp. The Spider 207 enjoys a considerable benefit due to the imposing rear cowling. Its unusual design not only improves the car’s aerodynamic properties but also makes a vulnerable rear spoiler unnecessary.


A single make series, the Peugeot Spider 207 Cup was developed for the Spider 207 in Europe. This "Intense Sport" cup was a curtain raiser at each of the 5 European meetings of the 2007 Le Mans Series where the 207 Spiders will run 2 qualifying practices and 2 races. Also launched at the last Paris Motor Show, it is no surprise to see the 207 Spider joining the Le Mans Series together with its big sister the Peugeot 908 whose debut within the Series "LM"P1 category was as promising as was expected.

The two official Peugeot Sport development drivers, Eric Hélary & Julien Briché, have tested the car to improve it. Directly developed from the 3 wheel 20Cup concept-car, but featuring conventional 4-wheel architecture, the 207 Spider is powered by a reliable production engine which offers a high level of torque. Thus, this car is ideal for a single class race championship. Furthermore, an attempt has been made to standardise as many pieces as possible to facilitate their interchanging. The 1,6L engine is totally production configured; only the intake & exhaust were modified. The engine and gearbox, the latter being controlled by "paddles" on the steering wheel, are located in a rear central transverse position. The tyres are from Michelin.

This spectacular car is now on display at the new Peugeot Blue Box in Glenmarie for a limited time. Nasim Sdn Bhd (NSB) would like to have this car participating in the local races. They welcome enquiries as to the running of the Peugeot Spider 207 Cup in Malaysia or use of the car in other local races.

Peugeot and racing fans are encouraged to visit the new Blue Box located at Lot B, No 2 & 4, Jalan Pengaturcara, U1/51, Seksyen U1, Temasya Industrial Park, 40150 Shah Alam to see the fabulous new Spider 207 and also the 207CC which will also be on display for a limited time only.
Also displayed at the centre is the new 2008 edition of the Naza 206 Bestari. A popular seller, the 206 Bestari had been freshened up with enhancements to the exterior and also interior. All these add up to a refreshing new look for the popular B segment hatchback. The best news is that there is no price increase for the enhancements.

For more information on the 2008 edition Naza 206 Bestari, Peugeot owners are advised to contact the Peugeot Careline at 03-2617 7777. Those interested in Peugeot may also visit http://www.peugeot.com.my/.

At the same time, NSB also announced that they will start collecting bookings for the new 407 from March 15. According to NSB, the new CKD 407 will retail at a very attractive price. NSB will progressively bring in other CKD and CBU Peugeot models to cater to the different segments of the Malaysian market.

Related posts:

http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2008/02/relaunch-of-2008-peugeot-407.html
http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2008/02/new-peugeot-blue-box-in-malaysia.html
http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2008/02/peugeot-to-launch-308-gt-thp-175-at.html

All-New Volvo XC60

Volvo has released the first photos of its freshest new model: the all-new 2009 Volvo XC60. "This is not only the safest Volvo ever - it's also the most stunning," says Volvo Cars President and CEO Fredrik Arp. The new XC60 will debut at the Geneva Motor Show on March 4, 2008. Its U.S. launch following shortly thereafter; the first quarter of 2009.

Click on all images to enlarge

Volvos' new XC60 crossover steps boldly into what is the motoring world's toughest and fastest-growing segment - the "Small Premium Utility". This car is charged with more emotive form and more energy than any other Volvo," says Volvo Cars Design Director Steve Mattin. "We're elevating our design DNA to an entirely new level by literally turning up the visual volume. If you say that you'd recognise a Volvo from 300 feet away today, I dare say the XC60 radiates a clear Volvo presence from at least twice that distance."

A variety of intelligent safety systems are another important part of the XC60's special character. The big news is City Safety - a unique system that can help the driver avoid or reduce the effects of the type of low-speed impacts that are common in city traffic. If the car is about to drive into the vehicle in front and the driver does not react, the car automatically applies the brakes.

"Volvo is the first in the world to offer this type of feature as standard," says Arp. "City Safety clearly signals that the new XC60 is the safest car Volvo has ever produced. The car is packed with our accumulated safety know-how and technology, both when it comes to preventing accidents and protecting all the occupants in a collision."

The new XC60 will be launched in the U.S. with only one standard engine: the powerful turbocharged T6, which produces 281 horsepower. All Wheel Drive (AWD) with Instant Traction is fitted as standard. The global sales target for the new XC60 is 50,000 units per year. The five largest markets during the peak year 2010 are expected to be the USA (15,000 - 20,000 units annually), Germany, Great Britain, Russia and China.

The Volvo XC60 will be built at the Volvo Cars factory in Ghent, Belgium. Sales will start in Europe during Q3 2008, while sales in North America are targeted to begin in early 2009.

2008 Toyota Crown and new Crown Hybrid in Japan

Toyota’s flagship Crown luxury sedan has undergone a makeover for 2008/09, with the large size executive saloon being offered with Toyota’s famed 'Hybrid Synergy Drive' from May 2008 onwards in Japan.

The petrol-driven Crown Royal series are available in 3.0L V6 and 2.5L V6 forms, while the ‘sportier’ Crown Athlete series are powered by a 2.5 V6 or a top-range 3.5L V6. All petrol engines are mated to an electronically-controlled (super-ECT), 6-speed automatic transmission.

Meanwhile, the new Crown Hybrid is equipped with a 3.5L V6 married to a high performance electric motor. Toyota claims that this RWD luxury limo is able to give the driving performance of a 4.5L saloon with the frugal fuel consumption of a 2.0L sedan!