Paul Tan's Automotive News » Spyshots

SPYSHOT: Proton P3-21A Persona R rear uncovered!

Paul Tan — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:38:56 +0000

Here’s another leaked shot of the soon to be launched Proton P3-21A, posted over at funtasticko. Don’t mind the slightly misaligned bootlid, it’s probably because the boot was not shut properly. The horizontal strip running across the bootlid is similiar to the one found on the Proton Exora – although it’s body coloured here, perhaps like the Exora it will be finished in chrome on high end models. What do you think of the design so far? It’s quite a departure from the Proton Tuah Concept eh?

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:24:15 +0000.

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New Ford Ranger in camouflage spotted, it’s coming soon!

Danny Tan — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 07:31:28 +0000

Yours truly was in Shah Alam yesterday when this camouflaged truck came into sight. It was heading towards the Guthrie Expressway, so I stopped at a petrol station to swap seats with my passenger. Camera out and ready, I realised that the “mystery truck” in question is the new Ford Ranger.

Covered in black and white swirl patterns to confuse and distract, we can still see the outline of the Blue Oval logo on the tailgate. In any case, the three square tail lamp design is a giveaway, and looking at the large size of the thing, it can’t possibly be any of the one-tonne pick-up trucks on sale today.

On the Guthrie, we overtook the truck for the side profile and front views you see here. And the front shots confirm that it is indeed the Ranger T6.

Recently, we saw a video of a blue new Ranger towing all its rivals, and now this. Looks like the second quarter 2012 local launch of the new truck is right on track. We will be getting the new 150 hp/375 Nm 2.2-litre engine, paired to either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic gearbox.

The range topping 3.2-litre Wildtrack model is not yet confirmed for now, but we think it’s a matter of time before the fully decked out “ultimate Ranger” hits town.

We have been previously told that the 2.2L Ranger will be competitively priced against rivals, and not far away from the outgoing Ranger. At launch, only the dual-cab XLT will be offered; other cab styles and the XL will come later. The Wildtrak model, if brought in, will be priced to match the Hilux 3.0 and Triton 3.2, despite boasting a longer kit list.

We’ve driven the new Ranger in Thailand already, and think that it’s a truck worth waiting for. Watch out for the test drive report!

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:24:15 +0000.

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Proton P3-21A rear end uncovered for the first time?

Danny Tan — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 03:07:56 +0000

Remember the yellow Proton P3-21A that showed the upcoming sedan’s face uncovered? It looks like a partial rear shot of that car has been circulating online, showing us the tail lamps without any masking. Even as we analyse it, bear in mind that this may or may not be the final production design.

Shown at funtastickodesign, the lone image shows a rear lamp cluster that’s unlike the wraparound old Subaru Legacy style rear design of the Tuah concept, so perhaps Proton is looking at a more contemporary look. The edges look a bit sharp and abrupt, though.

We can see that there’s a chrome bar visually linking the two sides of the tail lamps, like how Jaguar does it for the XF.

What we see here is also consistent with what’s visible from the masked test mules running around – full red with a clear strip running in the middle, with part of the lamp extended into the boot lid.

Do you prefer this or the rear end look of the Tuah concept?

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:24:15 +0000.

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Ford Fiesta facelift begins testing on public roads

Paul Tan — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 00:54:32 +0000

The latest Ford Fiesta was first introduced as the Verve concept in the second half of 2007, and went into production as the Fiesta in late 2008. Well, it’s 2012 now, which means it’s just about time for a mid-life facelift for the Fiesta, and we believe this set of photos that our European spy photo provider SB-MEDIEN managed to capture should be the facelifted Fiesta.

There’s not much changes on the rear of this particular test mule – everything looks identical to the current Fiesta on sale. But there seems to be big changes at the front as Ford has piled on the disguise pretty heavy. We can also spot daytime running lights installed in the headlamps, which also look slimmer. The engine hood is also different – it now has four creases on it for a more pronounced ‘nose’, instead of the current Fiesta’s engine hood which is flat.

All of these design cues are reflected on the Ford Fiesta ST Concept which made its debut at Frankfurt last year. The Fiesta ST Concept also had reshaped slimmer headlamps, and an engine hood similiar to that installed on this test mule.

It looks like those new design cues won’t be unique to the ST, as this test mule is definitely not an ST, as if you look into the detailed photos in the gallery below you’ll see that this test mule uses rear drum brakes, which points to a non-high performance Ford Fiesta.

Another interesting fact about this set of spyshots is a snap of the logbook inside the car, which reveals the engine under the hood – it says 1.0 GDI 80hp. This might be a three cylinder normally aspirated 1.0 liter petrol engine with direct injection technology.

A few other engines are planned for the Fiesta, like an EcoBoost version of the 3-pot 1.0 liter that makes either 100 PS or 125 PS in two different tunes. The 125 PS version will probably replace the current 1.6 liter Ti-VCT engine, while the 100 PS version would be a nice replacement for the 1.4 liter.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:24:15 +0000.

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F20 BMW 135i M Sports 3-door hatchback spied!

Paul Tan — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 10:23:36 +0000

We’ve already seen patent filing drawings of the 3-door version of the new F20 1-Series, so this isn’t really much of a surprise, but here are spyshots of the 3-door BMW 1-Series from our usual European spyshot contributor SB-Medien.

The model here is said to be a 135i, and its equipped with the F20′s M-Sport package. The 135i with nearly 320 horsepower to the rear wheels will be the hottest 1-Series hatchback as of now because we don’t know if BMW is planning a 1 M for the hatches or not.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:24:15 +0000.

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New Maruti Swift Dzire spied in India, it’s a ‘Swift Sedan’

Danny Tan — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 08:01:32 +0000

The previous gen Suzuki Swift, which is still current in Malaysia, spawned a sedan in India called Swift Dzire. The looks were odd, but the booted Swift proved popular. Here’s the new one, based on the latest Swift. Caught on camera by MegaPower Services, it confirms that the Dzire name has been continued, and that a launch is imminent.

Viewed from the rear, the “Swift Sedan” looks decent, but the funny proportions are unavoidable, since Suzuki wanted it to be below four metres in length to enjoy the Indian government’s excise benefits for small cars. As a result, the stubby tailed new Dzire is shorter than the old one, which is 4,160 mm long.

In front, the Dzire is distinguished from the hatch by a new grille and fog lamp housings. The cabin is carried over from the new Swift, which dumped the old minimalist dash for a more conventional layout. Being a sedan, the Dzire is trimmed with “luxury” in mind, as opposed to sporty – a two-tone theme and wood trim can be found.

Engine options are said to include a 1.2-litre K Series petrol and a 1.3-litre Multijet diesel from Fiat, engines that already see service in Maruti’s range.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:24:15 +0000.

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Proton P3-21A Tuah interior revealed for the first time!

Paul Tan — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 02:46:55 +0000

And here we have our first real peek into the interior of Proton’s upcoming P3-21A global sedan, thanks to reader Daud who spotted a group of 3 units being test driven by Proton engineers parked in Genting Sempah.

Click the image below to zoom in and you’ll be able to see some details. We’ve done our best to enhance the contrast of the image so you can make out the details through the reflection. It’s a pretty good looking dashboard, and we think we can spot out paddle shifters, an engine push-start button, and a multi-info display in the instrumentation cluster.

The interior is predominantly a sleek black/dark grey and silver, with a curved centre console that meets the centre dash area. The in-car entertainment controls seem to be mounted high up the dashboard, close to the centre air conditioning vents.

Check out the gallery below for more shots from the set. Some other angles we have area rear disc brakes, an oil cooler spotted behind the bumper, and a shot of the rear tail lamps of the P3-21A lit up.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:24:15 +0000.

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BMW 1-Series three-door hatchback patent filings leaked

Danny Tan — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 02:43:34 +0000

The new BMW 1-Series with the codename F20 was unveiled back in June, but only in five-door hatchback form. Now, here are some patent filings to show us how the three-door hatchback variant will look like.

No big departure from the 5dr, which is expected. Measurements should be unaltered, too. The 1er is both longer and wider than its predecessor, while wheelbase has grown by 30 mm to make 2,690 mm. Taken bare, the wheelbase is quite long, but because of the 1-Series’ unique cab rearward RWD layout, cabin space should be more snug than a typical C-segment hatchback.

BMW launched the 5dr with two different trim levels – Sport Line and Urban Line. Will the 3dr come with the same option, or will it be just Sport? Click here for more pics and info on the F20 1-Series.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:24:15 +0000.

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VIDEO: A first glimpse at new Proton P3-21A sedan interior

Paul Tan — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 09:12:04 +0000

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:24:15 +0000.

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Proton P3-21A – more snapshots of it, out in the rain

Anthony Lim — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 04:42:45 +0000

Here we go yet again – the Proton P3-21A continues its road-testing, today out in the rain. Reader Mnazri.tan was on the PLUS highway a while ago when the evaluator went past him near the Pedas area. He says that his friend’s Saga BLM was having a hard time catching up in the wet conditions, doing around 150 km/h, adding that the test mule looked very stable and poised at speed.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:24:15 +0000.

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Proton P3-21A spotted again undergoing road-testing

Anthony Lim — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 05:37:26 +0000

While the hot news and attention is undoubtedly on Proton’s star of the moment, the turbocharged Exora Bold, work continues on as usual for the Proton boys in road-going evaluation of the upcoming P3-21A.

The car has been spotted a number of times, notably back in August and most recently doing a high speed test run on the Karak earlier in the month. The mules were on the road again yesterday in the Klang Valley, clad as usual, and reader Abid took some shots to add to the growing image inventory of the car.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:24:15 +0000.

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Next gen Mercedes-Benz SL leaked ahead of Detroit debut

Danny Tan — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 02:29:21 +0000

Mercedes-Benz will be giving its next generation SL a world debut at next year’s Detroit show, but what seems like official brochure images have already leaked out.

These black and white scans show the three pointed star’s big roadster wearing the brand’s new face, featuring the wide grille as seen on the new CLS. In fact, the front end of the new SL is very similar to that of the latest SLK, but with bigger headlamps.

The sleeker and longer body of the SL also has larger and more prominent side vents that become the main feature of the profile. Compared to today’s car, the new SL has longer wrap around rear lamps and a more sculpted rear end, but the shape remains familiar.

It has been reported that the new SL uses aluminium lightweight construction, saving 140 kg over the current steel bodied car. Engines will include a new naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 and a twin-turbo 4.6-litre V8.

The dashboard layout also mimics very closely the style set by today’s SLK. Retro look air vents flank a central screen, with the standard Mercedes stereo and A/C clusters sitting below.

The only difference I can spot is the different arrangement of the gear lever/Comand controls compared to the SLK. The SL’s plush looking chairs have Airscarf vents, too.

Do you prefer the looks of the current SL or this?

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:24:15 +0000.

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Proton P3-21A high speed Karak test caught on camera

Danny Tan — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 07:19:21 +0000

It has been awhile since we had updates on the Proton P3-21A sedan. The last was when a pic of an undisguised yellow example made its way to the Internet, showing us a front end design that has been modified from the Tuah concept paraded at KLIMS 2010. If the final product stays true, the C-segment contender will have projector headlamps, LED DRLs and a wide “mask style” grille.

Anyway, reader Bay MH recently spotted something interesting when driving down the Karak highway to KL. He saw two taped up test mules of the P3-21A and whipped out his camera for some decent shots.

According to our car paparazzi, he was in a Vios and the Protons were doing over 140 km/h, with a Ford Fiesta chasing them (naughty fella!). He observed that both mules had four passengers onboard, and one unit sat lower at the back than the other, probably because it had cargo in the boot.

And just like in a Michael Bay movie, there were action scenes – Bay said that he had to slow down in the corners but had enough to catch up on the straights and both Protons were “cornering nicely at speed”.

Here are the shots that Bay (MH not Michael) managed to snap, bad black Fiesta included Click here to view our previous post featuring the abovementioned yellow undisguised pic.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:24:15 +0000.

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Ford Ecosport is a Fiesta based SUV, web images leaked

Danny Tan — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 02:48:40 +0000

Click to enlarge screen shot

Ford is coming out with a SUV version of its successful B-segment Fiesta, and it will be called EcoSport. Rumoured to be bound for the India Auto Expo in January 2012, pics of the new model has been leaked online. IndianAutosBlog carried some reader captured screen caps and it reveals that EcoBoost tech will be present in the SUV.

The Indian report goes on to say that the engine in question is the 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine. This three-cylinder turbocharged Ti-VCT mill produces the power of a normal 1.6 petrol in the higher of its two outputs, but with much lower consumption and more torque, and is part of Ford’s downsized DI + turbo engine range. We have an in depth piece on this cool little engine – click here to read more.

A rendering of how the Ford EcoSport mini SUV might look like

Besides the 1.0 EcoBoost, Indians will require a diesel engine as well, and the Fiesta’s 1.5-litre oil burner should be carried over. The footprint of the EcoSport is expected to be small, about the size of the Perodua Kembara.

India and China are two big markets that will be producing the EcoSport. If they decide to make it in Thailand, we might stand a chance of getting one, too.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:24:15 +0000.

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COMING SOON! Proton Saga FLX SE 1.6L with CVT leaked

Danny Tan — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 11:33:10 +0000

Click to enlarge image

The ultimate Proton Saga is coming soon! Thanks to reader Ali, we have scans of a Proton brochure featuring “The new Saga FLX SE 1.6L with CVT”. Proton has thrown everything at the name, and it’s a mouthful, but all we need to know is that this upcoming variant is the range topper, the SE of the current Saga FLX range, equipped with the Campro 1.6L engine and CVT gearbox.

Currently, the Saga FLX with continuous variable transmission (CVT) is only available with a 1.3L Campro (launched in July, read our test drive report here). Proton has a 1.6-litre powered Saga – the Executive 1.6L – but that one was launched before the FLX with CVT, so it comes with a four-speed torque converter automatic ‘box.

Click to enlarge image

So with this new FLX SE variant, Proton is marrying what’s good from both cars (1.6L + CVT) and sweetens it further with the usual sporty SE add ons.

Upon closer inspection, the FLX SE’s 1.6L Campro puts out 108 hp at 5,750 rpm and 150 Nm at 4,000 rpm. The current Executive 1.6L with 4AT makes 110 hp at 6,500 rpm and 148 Nm at 4,000 rpm. Nothing significant, except that peak power is made 750 rpm lower in the CVT equipped FLX SE. The variance seen here is probably due to the engine being retuned to match the CVT.

Click to enlarge image

The FLX SE is available in Fire Red (as seen here) or Solid White, and it wears a full bodykit that is painted grey to contrast with the red. This hue is repeated on the strip above the grille and the side skirts; although likely, we can’t confirm if the lower rear bumper is in the same colour. At the back, the lamp cluster is now in clear lense/silver style for maximum bling effect.

The SE comes with 15-inch eight-spoke alloy rims, the first time a Saga is leaving the factory wearing rims bigger than 14 ins. Along with that comes wider tyres – 195/50 compared to the current 185/60.

Click to enlarge image

Equipment wise, the Saga FLX SE gets leather seats, leather wrapped wheel, stereo with MP3/USB/AUX, dual airbags, ABS + EBD, steering audio buttons and driver’s seat height adjuster, among other kit. The meter panel now has a white backlight, no longer orange, and the centre console, door handles and air-con vents are trimmed in Satin Black.

Currently, the Saga Elegance 1.6L is priced at RM46,549. How much do you think this FLX SE 1.6L with CVT will cost? As a marker, automatic variants of Perodua’s Myvi SE 1.5 start from RM53,900, going all the way to RM61,700.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:24:15 +0000.

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Left-hand drive Proton Exora facelift spotted on test

Paul Tan — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 08:47:45 +0000

At first glance, this Proton Exora looks just like any other Proton Exora, or at least that’s what we thought when we were driving up the highway and spotted two Exoras on the left lane. You can zoom in the photo above to spot the difference. When we passed them, we noticed that this Exora was a left-hand drive car!

Furthermore, it appears that the front of the car has no tape covering it up at all, offering us a full view of how the facelifted Exora will look like. The back still has a little tape on. Theo Chin has a rendering of the new front end.

This might mean that Proton is preparing to introduce the Exora into left-hand drive markets soon. Earlier this month, Proton announced that it signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Chinese automaker Hawtai Motor Group to explore manufacturing the Exora in China amongst other things, and we know China is a left-hand drive country.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:24:15 +0000.

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Honda CR-Z spotted in Kota Damansara – on the way in?

Anthony Lim — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 06:39:29 +0000

Might it be that the Honda CR-Z three-door hybrid hatch is set to make its way into the market here soon? The example seen in the pix intimates so – reader Daryl spotted the trade-plated vehicle parked somewhere in Kota Damansara, and snapped a photo of it for us. The car made an appearance last year at KLIMS, but no word then on when it was due in.

The car, which wears a 1.5 litre LEA i-VTEC four-cylinder mill and Honda’s Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid-electric system offering 122 hp and 174 Nm, will of course benefit from the continued import and excise duty exemption for hybrids that runs until Dec 31, 2013 announced in Budget 2012.

Of interest is whether the car, when it comes, will be equipped with the six-speed manual transmission that’s general issue or wear the optional continuously variable transmission as standard fare here. Guess we’ll find out when someone snaps a photo of the interior!

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:24:15 +0000.

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Citroen DS4 at Brooklands Sungai Besi – launching soon?

Danny Tan — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 07:40:39 +0000

Reader Theyson snapped some pics of this Citroen DS4 at Brooklands Motors’ Sungai Besi HQ in KL. We can’t confirm, but according to him, this sole unit is brought in for JPJ testing purposes, which could mean that Brooklands is looking to introduce this model in Malaysia soon?

Unveiled at Paris 2010, the DS4 is the second model in Citroen’s DS range after the DS3. It is based on the Citroen C4, but with difference is styling as well as a higher grade interior. It’s available with a choice of five engines in Europe – two HDi diesels and three petrol engines. The most powerful of the latter is a 200 hp THP, joined by a THP 155 and a VTi 120. All three are variants of the 1.6-litre BMW-PSA Prince engine that also feature in Peugeots and MINIs.

But while sister brand Peugeot mates the engines with a six-speed automatic, Citroen prefers its EGS transmission, which is an AMT-style automated clutch manual. The good old stick shift is the preferred choice in Europe.

With the path opened by Peugeot and VW, there has never been a better time than now to bring in European hatchbacks. The DS4 won’t have the backing of a huge support network, but the few who buy it will surely stand out in a sea of 308s and Golfs.

Read all about the DS4 and view the official gallery here.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:24:15 +0000.

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New Kia Optima spotted being tested by JPJ officers

Paul Tan — Sun, 02 Oct 2011 10:39:02 +0000

The new Kia Optima is currently on test with JPJ, and it seems it’s being driven quite frequently as well, as it’s been spotted twice by two different readers in the span of a week. Reader Adrian Yong snapped the Optima parked at an undisclosed location, while Khairil got his opportunity to snap photos at the Tapah R&R, north-bound. Perhaps we could see the Optima launched before the end of the year, or in the first half of next year? We’ve already driven the Kia Optima during an international press drive event in Australia, so you can read our first impression test drive review story posted earlier this year. The model we tested had a 2.4 litre GDI engine.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:24:15 +0000.

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SPIED: Hello, are you the new Toyota Avanza?

Danny Tan — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 06:25:45 +0000

Here are some shots of a Toyota MPV circulating in Indonesian forums and websites. Taken from a factory line, these images are likely to be of the new Toyota Avanza. The rear shot shows it lining up behind a Toyota Rush SUV, which of course shares the same platform as the Avanza.

The compact seven seater Avanza may be over eight years old now, but it still rules the sales charts in Indonesia. It’s also a success in Malaysia, but the late 2009 introduction of the Perodua Alza has seen Avanza sales whittle down to a couple of hundred units per month. Toyota recently gave its IMV trio of Innova, Fortuner and Hilux a revamp, and it looks like the Avanza is the next!

The front end is quite similar to that of the Etios and Etios Liva in India, and that wide grille is also seen in the Corolla Altis 2.0, so it looks like Toyota wants the Avanza to have more of a “car look”. None of the three recently facelifted IMV models carry this look. While the changed face brings a more rounded and sculpted look, it remains to be seen in the metal if it gels with the Avanza’s boxy shape.

At the back, the more rounded theme continues, and the tail lamps now wrap into the sides. We can also see a new line on the profile between the wheels that sweep up gently, in addition to the current curves that highlight the wheel arches.

Besides the latter, more evidence that this is more than just a simple front and rear nip/tuck is in the different shape of the rear quarter glass/D-pillars, as well as the rear screen, which appears to have more rake on the new car.

If this is indeed the new Avanza, it won’t be coming so soon, if at all. UMW Toyota will be busy rolling out the refreshed IMV trio first (Hilux is already out, click here to read our report) and Malaysia already has the more stylish and modern Perodua Alza for this segment, so perhaps the Avanza isn’t top priority. What do you think?

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:24:15 +0000.

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Honda City facelift brochure leaked ahead of Thai launch

Danny Tan — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 19:21:13 +0000

It seems like Honda is ready to roll out a facelifted City soon! These brochure scans recently appeared on Indian Autos Blog, and were said to have been sent to them from Thailand. The scans show a Thai brochure featuring a red hero car with the tagline “Always Ahead”.

Up front, there are slight changes to the grille design (bigger gaps in the side sections), which remains instantly recognisable as a City. The whole bumper is new, changing from the current U shape to an X shape. This trick was also used in the current facelifted Camry.

The seven double spoke design wheels seen here are also new. However, it is for the Thai SV spec (highest), although both V and S grades also get freshly designed rims.

At the back, the City’s unique tail lamps come in a new design featuring two clear stripes, and there’s a new lower bumper incorporating a diffuser style insert painted in black, with reflectors on each side. Inside, everything looks the same, except for the dials, which looks to be accented in blue. The current dials are lit in orange.

The current gen Honda City was launched here back in early 2009, so it’ll be three years old soon. Time for a refresher, so perhaps we could be looking at a Malaysian launch of this facelifted version late this year or early 2012.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:24:15 +0000.

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Infiniti EX and FX models spotted at JPJ Putrajaya

Harvinder Sidhu — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 10:52:34 +0000

It seems we have more news from Putrajaya. Reader Akmal spotted two Infiniti models at JPJ Putrajaya. As mentioned before, Nissan’s luxury brand will be making an entry into Malaysia by the fourth quarter of this year along with an Infiniti Centre in Kuala Lumpur. Auto Dunia is the franchise holder and the Infiniti Centre will be operated by Inspired Motor which is a joint venture between Auto Dunia and Edaran Tan Chong Motor.

The dark red model we have here is the Infiniti EX which is a compact crossover SUV that is positioned below the FX range. Several models are available including the EX37 and the EX25 which is sold in China only. There is also a diesel variant called the EX30d. From the images, we can’t really tell which variant this vehicle is but it could likely be the EX37.

The EX37 uses a 3.7 litre V6 petrol engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift or VVEL. It makes 316hp and comes with a 7-speed automatic transmission with manual mode in the UK. Torque is set at 360Nm at 5,200 rpm. 0-100km/h takes 6.4 seconds while top speed is 240km/h.

The larger of the two is the Infiniti FX which is categorized as a mid-sized crossover SUV. This model is also available as an FX37, FX30d or as an FX50. Our guess would also be that the FX37 will be offered here. As the name suggests, it also uses the same 3.7 litre V6 and gearbox combo offered with the EX37. Power is also the same at 316hp and 360Nm of torque at 5,200 rpm. However 0-100km/h takes a little slower, 6.8 seconds to be exact and top speed is 233km/h.

Continue reading to view more images.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:24:15 +0000.

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Peugeot 508 looking good at JPJ’s Putrajaya office

Harvinder Sidhu — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 08:22:15 +0000

Looks like local players Nasim is about to launch the Peugeot 508 sedan in Malaysia real soon. A reader by the name of Akmal has managed to snap some photos of the gorgeous-looking French sedan at JPJ Putrajaya where it is likely undergoing type approval for our local consumption.

I am not sure what is under the hood of this car but if I were a betting man, I would put my money on the 1.6 litre turbocharged BMW-PSA Prince powerplant which should offer enough kick for the 508 and at the same time keep fuel consumption low

The 508 sits on the platform that underpins the Citroen C5 and it replaces both the 407 and 607 models. According to our previous report, the sedan should have made its local debut earlier this month.

Although it is almost halfway through the month, the launch should be just around the corner. October perhaps? In terms of pricing, we reckon that the 508 could be priced close the Ford Mondeo’s price range.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:24:15 +0000.

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It’s not called SE – Perodua Myvi Extreme 1.5 spotted!

Danny Tan — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 01:44:57 +0000

Click to enlarge

Reader Khairiizuan Bin Nazarudin sent us some fresh shots of the “yellow Myvi SE” that has been regularly spotted on test, and with these undisguised pics, we learn something new about the upcoming variant. For one, it’s not called “SE”, but the Myvi Extreme 1.5, as printed on the rear emblem.

And while the tagline for the new Myvi is “Lagi Best”, this one is “Lagi Power, Lagi Best”, referring to the bigger 1.5-litre engine offered.

Click to enlarge

We previously posted some shots of the yellow Myvi Extreme being tested alongside a white coloured car with a different bodykit (view it here), so could that instead be a “1.3L SE” that slots between the Extreme and the standard car? We’ll see.

These pics, which was taken at the port (probably for shipment to East Malaysia or Langkawi?), shows all the previously taped up parts, such as the emblem and the lower part of the front and rear bumpers. We can see that the front bumper is all new, and has prominent cutouts for the fog lamps. Both sides are linked by a bronze coloured lip, matched in colour by the grille and the wheels.

Click to enlarge

At the back, the “holes” below the reflectors introduced for the new Myvi (reduces pressure build up, improves aero) appears to have been omitted for the Extreme. The rear wing is rather elaborate in design and very prominent. Of course, there are side skirts to complete the sportier look. We also get to see how the car looks in black.

Moving on to the inside, which we also see clearly here for the first time. The central touch screen head unit looks like the one in the Myvi Elegance, and there appears to be leather seats and a leather wrapped steering wheel for this range topper.

The wheel appears chunkier with the leather wrap, and there are audio control buttons on the left spoke, which is a new feature for the Myvi family. The housing for the instrument cluster is in silver, and there’s some carbon style metallic trim on the door panels.

Read and view the standard new Myvi here. The official launch of the Extreme shouldn’t be too far away from now. Stay tuned!

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:24:15 +0000.

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Honda Brio spotted again in KL, this time in Brickfields

Anthony Lim — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 08:12:59 +0000

The blue example of the Honda Brio seen a few days ago being transported on a trailer has been spotted yet again. Reader boring (what an interesting moniker) saw the blue Brio in Brickfields a couple of hours ago, and says the car was being utilised for “some sort of advertisement,” as he puts it. He managed to snap this, and adds that there’s another Brio behind the lorry, which of course can’t be seen in the picture.

So what’s bubbling with the little Honda hatch then? No disguise, and supposedly, two of them. Doing duty for an ad campaign? Marketing ploy with the open deployment, and sampling to see if there’s public interest? Is it coming, or just something being done for another market? No answers, only more questions, and so the mystery remains.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:24:15 +0000.

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Honda Brio spotted on flat bed tow truck in Malaysia

Paul Tan — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 07:54:16 +0000

Since Honda will be making available the Honda Brio in both Thailand (already on sale) and Indonesia (today’s previous story), perhaps eventually the Honda Brio will be made available in Malaysia as well, as Honda’s ASEAN offerings seem to be quite consistent from country to country.

In fact, reader Prem has already spotted one unit of the Honda Brio being transported on a trailer in Malaysia. Curiously, whoever was transporting the Brio made no real attempts to disguise the identity of the car other than just some protective taping on the badges, which makes us wonder if this particular Brio even has anything to do with Honda Malaysia. It might be competitors conducting market research.

The production center for the Brio in the region is currently located in Thailand, and even Indonesia imports the subcompact in CBU form from our northern neighbors. If it is ever launched here, I am guessing the Brio will end up being a Thai CBU here as well.

If launched in Malaysia, the Brio will take over the Honda City S’s spot as the most affordable Honda in Malaysia. Given the City S is priced at RM85,480, how much would you pay for a 1.2 litre engined Honda Brio in Malaysia?

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:24:15 +0000.

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Proton P3-21A Persona R prototype teases its tail lamps

Paul Tan — Sat, 27 Aug 2011 07:40:51 +0000

Whenever we’ve seen the new P3-21A C-segment Proton sedan so far, it’s always been very heavily disguised to the point that even the tail lamp design are not only just taped up, but are covered up by decoy lenses. You can see an example in the image above.

The cars above were traveling in a rather big convoy that included three different P3-21A prototypes and a Proton Exora Turbo prototype. It just so happens that one of the P3-21A prototypes was a little different from the other two.

Yes, thanks to reader “.drive”, for the first time we’re looking at a P3-21A prototype with some of its tail lamp design showing. There’s no fake lenses covering up the details like on the other two cars you see here.

If you look closely, the exhaust system on this car also looks more refined than the other two cars – the transversely-installed exhaust box is neatly tucked under the rear bumper and there’s a nice single tailpipe, while the installation of the exhaust box for the other two prototypes are not as neat.

We also have a rather high resolution view of the front – I think I can see some projector lenses in the headlamps.

And while the other prototypes have been riding on lightly taped up Proton Inspira wheels, the wheel design on this particular prototype looked a little different – more of a double spoke design than the triple spoke design of the Inspira.

The Proton Exora Turbo traveling with the convoy was a white one with the new front bumper and clear tail lamps. You can’t see it here in this photo but previous shots revealed rear disc brakes for the car, presumably either to handle the increased power that the car has, or as a requirement to run an ESP stability control setup.

Look after the jump for a gallery of spyshots – have a look at the high resolution versions of each image as well as there are some pretty high resolution shots here.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:24:15 +0000.

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Yellow Perodua Myvi SE spotted transported by trailer

Paul Tan — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 08:27:35 +0000

Prior to the 2011 Perodua Myvi’s launch, we saw two different versions being tested on the road – a regular Myvi and another version with a sportier outlook that looked pretty much like a Myvi SE. Come launch time, only the normal Myvi was launched, and only with a 1.3 litre engine. So there’s still a few chapters to go when it comes to the new Myvi – the Myvi SE continues to be sighted around town and the fabled 1.5 litre version is also supposed to be coming soon. Perhaps they’ll launch together?

The Myvi SE’s launch could be coming very soon as reader Sean Lim saw a whole trailer load of yellow Myvis being transported on the KESAS highway, moving towards Port Klang near the Kampung Jawa exit.

Another reader Muhammad Ridhuan Md Nor also saw a yellow Perodua Myvi SE being tested earlier this month at Jalan Kuala Kubu Bharu.

Reader Saiful Azlee also saw a yellow Myvi SE being tested on KM 105 Jalan Kuantan-Kuala Terengganu, heading towards to Kuala Terengganu. What’s interesting in this set of photos is that the white Myvi seen here is different from the Myvi SE. The most obvious change is the fact that it has a different rear spoiler design from the Myvi SE, and it’s not the same spoiler design seen on the Myvi when it was launched either. Is the white Myvi here a regular non-SE Myvi 1.5?

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:24:15 +0000.

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F30 BMW 3-Series: first clear aerial view of the car

Paul Tan — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 14:23:54 +0000

At long last, we finally get a clear undisguised view of the upcoming F30 BMW 3-Series. These shots are courtesy of a F30Post forumer, who snapped the F30 from above while it was on a shoot in Spain. The car you see here will probably end up being the same car in the F30′s future press publicity photos, and if that’s the case the colour you see here will be the launch colour for the car.

It really looks like a smaller F10, but with a much more youthful and sharp front end – check out the angle of the headlamps towards the kidney grilles. There’s also a glimpse of the interior which reveals that the car will have the option of a heads up display system. The iDrive screen is also the pop up style which first made its debut on the F12/F13 6-Series.

Look after the jump for two more shots.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:24:15 +0000.

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New Toyota Camry exposed by Canadian buyer’s guide!

Danny Tan — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 02:32:42 +0000

The new Toyota Camry will be officially launched simultaneously in four locations across the US on August 23, but it has already been exposed, thanks to a French language Canadian car buyer’s guide. The mag scans reveal familiar evolutionary design and a redesigned dashboard. Info gained from the mag are as follows:

The North American Camry starts with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder with 171 PS and 226 Nm of torque, good for 0-100 km/h in 9.8 seconds, before reaching a top speed of 190 km/h.

A step up is the Hybrid, which sees an electric motor paired to a 2.4-litre petrol engine. The combined output is 190 PS and 270 Nm. 0-100 km/h in done in 8.9 seconds and top speed is 200 clicks. The headline fuel consumption figure is 5.7 litres per 100 km.

There has to be a big V6, and its a 3.5-litre unit with 272 PS and 335 Nm of torque. This range topper does the century sprint in just 7.2 seconds and has a top speed of 220 km/h. There will be three trim levels – LE, SE and XLE.

The full scan of the double page spread is after the jump, as well as an official Toyota teaser of the rear end, which wasn’t shown in the mag. Might be useful if you can read French!

Click to enlarge image

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 10:24:15 +0000.

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Paul Tan's Automotive News » Spyshots

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