ALL-NEW HR-V BOOKINGS SET NEW BENCHMARK IN SUV SEGMENT

ALL-NEW HR-V BOOKINGS SET NEW BENCHMARK IN SUV SEGMENT

- The All-New HR-V records more than 7,000 bookings within one month
- Honda Malaysia remains as No.1 in the Non-National Passenger Vehicle Segment

The All-New HR-V has set good momentum in bookings, setting new benchmark for Honda Malaysia's SUV segment with more than 7,000 bookings received in one month. The V variant led the pack with 65% of the total units booked, while the S and E variants account for 15% and 20% respectively.

The unexpectedly high record bookings have led to a four-month waiting period, and Honda Malaysia is currently reviewing its production scheduling. With the All-New HR-V being produced at the No.2 Line plant in Pegoh, Malacca which has flexible production schedule, Honda Malaysia is able to promptly revise the production plan and is working hard to reduce the waiting period. Honda Malaysia apologizes for the delay in delivery and will announce the new waiting period once it has been finalized.

Honda Malaysia strives to ensure that the cars will be delivered to customers within a reasonable period. However, the company will not rush its production as quality remains a top priority. Customer satisfaction is of utmost importance and Honda Malaysia is mindful not to jeopardize its quality.

Honda Malaysia attributes the good market acceptance to its customers for their continuous support and confidence in Honda products and services.

The All-New HR-V features among others, Multi-Utility Cargo Space, which enables various versatile rear seat configurations to meet all lifestyle activities. Journeys in the All-New HR-V are made more comfortable and enjoyable with smart interface features such as 7-inch Display Audio, Touch Panel Auto Air Conditioning and Smart Entry with Push Start Button. The All-New HR-V comes with a host of advanced technology features, such as the new Automatic Brake Hold and Electric Parking Brake which are made available for all variants.ÊA comprehensive range of active and passive safety features are also fitted in the All-New HR-V, including 6 Airbags.

Honda Malaysia has also set a new record in February 2015 with the highest ever number of bookings received in its history at 11,047 units and more than 6,000 units sold. This new record was driven mainly by bookings for the All-New HR-V, City and followed by Jazz.

With a line-up of strong models, including the New CR-V, Honda Malaysia has maintained its No. 1 position in the Non-National Passenger Vehicle Segment in January 2015 with 6,522 units sold. The high sales figure was contributed mainly by the City and Jazz, both leading in their respective segments. The Civic and Accord also continued to head their corresponding segments in January.

With this positive momentum and the All-New HR-V's positioning, Honda Malaysia is confident of achieving its 85,000 sales target for 2015.

Honda Malaysia is working closely with its network of 78 dealers nationwide to provide quality after-sales support and services for a good ownership experience.

Following is the official Honda press release for the introduction of the new 9G Civic Type-R in case you have not read it yet.

A HOT-HATCH ICON REBORN: ALL-NEW HONDA CIVIC TYPE R ENGINEERED TO BE A ‘RACE CAR FOR THE ROAD’

	・	Production version of Civic Type R revealed at 2015 Geneva Motor Show
	・	Characterful, high-revving all-new 2.0 litre VTEC TURBO engine offers greater power, torque and response than any previous Honda production car engine
	・	Function dictates form – eye-catching styling enhancements optimise airflow to aid performance and stability
	・	Advanced new suspension systems, unique to the Type R, ensure rewarding handling characteristics and maximise power transfer
	・	New +R mode increases the response of chassis and engine for enhanced driving thrills
	・	Under development the Civic Type R has achieved a top speed of 270 km/h

After a five year wait, 2015 sees the arrival of the world's most keenly anticipated hot hatch, the Honda Civic Type R. Billed as a ‘race car for the road', the all-new Civic Type R will set new standards in the high-performance front-wheel drive hatchback segment.

The production version of Honda's latest hot hatch icon is revealed for the first time at the 85th Geneva Motor Show (5 to 15 March; Stand 4250, Hall 4).

Type R vehicles have garnered a cult following around the world and the new model more than lives up to the high expectations. A world-first application of Honda's new 2.0 litre VTEC TURBO engine, aggressive function-led styling, and pioneering new chassis technologies combine to deliver one of the most immersive and rewarding driving experiences available in any sector.

The new 2015 Civic Type R will be powered by the most extreme and high-performing engine in the 22-year history of the red ‘H' badge, signalling the start of a new performance era for the Honda brand.

All-new turbocharged 2.0 litre VTEC TURBO engine
At the heart of the Civic Type R is an all-new, direct-injected turbocharged 2.0 litre VTEC TURBO petrol engine, which delivers power, torque and performance figures unmatched in the front-wheel drive hot hatch segment. Peak power output is 310 PS^* at 6,500 rpm, and peak torque is 400 Nm^* at 2,500 rpm – both higher than for any previous Honda Type R model.

Red-lining at 7,000 rpm, the engine – part of Honda's next-generation Earth Dreams Technology series – features an advanced new turbocharger with VTEC technology that boosts low-end torque and delivers sustained acceleration.

The Civic Type R's blistering performance is unmatched in the front-wheel drive hot hatch segment: the 0-to-100 km/h (62 mph) sprint is covered in just 5.7 seconds^* – making it the fastest accelerating performance front-wheel drive hatchback – and top speed, where permitted, is a class-leading 270 km/h (167 mph)^*.

The new engine is mated to a slick-shifting six-speed manual transmission, safeguarding an intimate, rewarding connection with the drivetrain, and power is directed through the front wheels.

Function dictates form
The styling changes that are unique to the Civic Type R give the car an aggressive, purposeful stance, yet almost all have a functional purpose. The sleek and aerodynamically-efficient design reflects a car developed to perform at speed. The focus on aerodynamics has ensured high-speed stability and high levels of downforce.

To achieve this aim, the Civic Type R was subject to exhaustive aerodynamic analysis, testing and development. The development team tirelessly pursued its objectives through computer-based CFD modelling and wind tunnel testing at Honda's dedicated automotive motorsports facility in Sakura, Japan; home of Honda's Formula One engine development.

This development work was validated through extensive prototype testing both on the road and on track, including at the Suzuka Formula One circuit, the Nürburgring Nordschleife and at the company's Takasu test facility.

A new, almost completely flat underside aids airflow under the vehicle and combines with a rear diffuser to optimise downforce – effectively ‘sucking' the car onto the road. 

The rear wing has been reimagined from the Type R Concept. The structure of the airfoil – its angle, height and shape as well as its vertical end plates – have been carefully engineered to optimise downforce without causing a significant increase in drag at higher speeds. This helps improve road-holding abilities, particularly through high-speed corners.

A wide front splitter and deep side skirts also manage airflow and reduce lift, while the front bumper has been shaped specifically to inhibit air turbulence around the front wheels, enhancing high-speed stability and reducing lift forces.

Heat management was another major focus for the design team, influencing several prominent external design modifications. Enlarged upper and lower grilles in the front bumper allow greater volume of cooling air into the engine bay. The airflow is channelled to outlet vents above the wheels on the front quarter panels and vents at the trailing edges of the widened front wheel arches to provide greater cooling and ventilation for the high-output engine.

New lightweight, high rigidity 19-inch alloy wheels, unique to the Type R, complement the visual changes. They fill the enlarged wheel arches with 235/35R19 tyres that were developed specially for the Type R.

To help the driver manage the Type R's prodigious power, the car is equipped with a high performance Brembo brake package, developed specifically for the car.  At the front, four-piston calipers apply braking force to 350 mm drilled discs.

The Type R is available in five distinctive colours that give the purposeful new styling added visual impact. As well as Championship White – shared with successive generations of iconic Type R vehicles – buyers can choose from Crystal Black (pearlescent), Polished Metal (metallic), Brilliant Sporty Blue (metallic) and Milano Red.

A cabin with a sporting ambience
A range of aesthetic and functional upgrades within the cabin reinforce the Type R's sporting character. As with previous Type R models, the gear lever knob is made from machined aluminium alloy. High-backed sports seats, trimmed in suede-effect black fabric with red double stitching, provide driver and front-seat passenger with ample lateral support during harder cornering.

Matching red double stitching also appears on the black leather-clad steering wheel and black gear-lever gaiter. The roof-lining is trimmed in black fabric, augmenting the focused ambience.

New suspension technologies for a rewarding, more agile drive
A number of innovative new suspension systems, unique to the Type R, have been introduced to produce rewarding handling characteristics and to maximise power transfer to the road.

A new four-point Adaptive Damper System, developed specifically for the Type R, enables continuous independent control of each wheel to deliver exceptional road holding performance, limit wheel-load transfer during sharp acceleration and deceleration, and to maintain a stable, flat ride. It also means that the ride is more comfortable and supple in everyday driving and cruising.

An advanced Dual Axis Strut Front Suspension system helps to reduce torque steer by 50 per cent compared to the standard Civic's suspension set up, enhancing high speed stability, on-the-limit cornering and steering feel. At the rear, Type R's H-shaped torsion beam suspension is constructed with a bespoke ‘crushed pipe' which improves rear roll rigidity by 180 per cent, further enhancing stability in high-speed corners.

These systems are complemented by Dual Pinion Electric Power Steering, which helps to deliver rapid yet linear steering response and abundant feel.

New ‘+R' mode increases responses for enhanced driving thrills
The new Civic Type R will mark the debut of the new ‘+R' button that increases the response of various chassis and drivetrain systems. The result is an even more intense driving experience, ideal for the track and sure to be appreciated by the genuine sports-driving enthusiast.

When +R mode is activated, engine responsiveness is heightened, with torque-mapping changed to a more aggressive and performance-focused setting. Steering receives reduced power assistance and is therefore more responsive to driver inputs, and basic damping force from the new four-point Adaptive Damper System is increased by 30 per cent. This means the behaviour of the car is firmer and more agile for high-performance handling.

All-new GT Pack offers further enhancements
Customers will have the option to specify their new Civic Type R with an all-new GT Pack.

Externally, the GT Pack adds signature red highlights to the front and rear splitters for even greater eye-catching impact, but it's under the skin where the GT Pack's most significant upgrades will be found.

The driver will benefit from extra convenience features such as front and rear parking sensors, dusk sensing headlamps, rain sensing automatic wipers and electric fold door mirrors. Integrated Garmin satellite navigation (including five years of free map updates) is added to the Honda Connect  infotainment system. Audiophiles will be attracted by the addition of a CD player and a premium eight-speaker, 320 watt stereo system upgrade.

All occupants will appreciate automatic dual zone climate control air conditioning, and sophistication in the cabin is also boosted by red ambient lighting.

The GT Pack also includes Honda's Advanced Driver Assist Systems. This comprehensive suite of sensor-based safety technologies includes Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition system, High-Beam Support System, Blind Spot Information and Cross Traffic Monitor.
Honda's City-Brake Active system will be fitted as standard on the Civic Type R.

The all-new Honda Civic Type R will go on sale across Europe from this summer. Full vehicle specifications will be announced in due course.

* Honda internal figures

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. Announces New President & CEO

Tokyo, February 23, 2015 --- Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (“Honda Motor”) today announced that Takahiro Hachigo, currently the company’s Managing Officer, will become Senior Managing Officer effective in April 2015, and will become President, Chief Executive Officer and Representative Director in late June 2015. Takanobu Ito, the current President, Chief Operating Officer and Representative Director, will remain on the board and assume the post of Director and Advisor to Honda Motor. This management succession will occur following the final decision of the Honda Motor Board of Directors after the company’s annual shareholders’ meeting, scheduled for late June 2015.

Hachigo joined Honda in 1982, and began his career in its automobile research and development operations, principally as an engineer in the area of chassis design. Hachigo was in charge of developing the first-generation of U.S.-built Odyssey minivan, which was launched in 1999 primarily for the U.S. market. Hachigo went on to assume responsibilities as the person-in-charge of developing the second generation CR-V, Honda’s highly successful compact sport-utility vehicle for the worldwide markets, in 2001.

From April 2004 to March 2006, Hachigo was stationed in the U.S. as Senior Vice President of Honda R&D Americas, Inc., where he became actively involved in the local development of Honda and Acura automobiles. In April 2006, Hachigo became Operating Officer of Honda R&D Co., Ltd. (“Honda R&D”) and subsequently gaining promotion to Managing Officer in April 2007. After retiring from this position in March 2008, Hachigo became General Manager of Purchasing Division No.2 of Purchasing Operations, Honda Motor, in April and became Operating Officer of Honda Motor in June of the same year. Hachigo then assumed a role in the area of manufacturing as General Manager of Honda’s Suzuka Factory in April 2011. He served as Vice President and Director of Honda Motor Europe Ltd. from April 2012 to March 2013 and also as President and Director, Honda R&D Europe (U.K.) Ltd., from September 2012 to March 2013. In 2013, Hachigo’s responsibilities shifted to China, becoming Vice President of Honda Motor (China) Investment Co., Ltd. in April, simultaneously becoming Representative of Development, Purchasing and Production (China), Honda Motor, and Vice President of Honda Motor Technology (China) Co., Ltd. In April 2014, Hachigo was promoted to Managing Officer of Honda Motor, a title he currently holds.

Ito joined Honda in 1978 and began his career in the company’s automobile research and development operations, primarily as a chassis design engineer. Ito was in charge of developing the all-aluminum uni-body frame structure for the highly acclaimed first-generation NSX sports car that went on sale in 1990. In June 2000, he was appointed a member of the Honda Motor Board of Directors, subsequently assuming responsibilities as President and Director of Honda R&D, General Manager of the Suzuka Factory, and most recently, President, Chief Executive Officer and Representative Director of Honda Motor, a title he has held since June 2009.

During the six years of Ito’s leadership, Honda was able to actively evolve its global manufacturing structure, notably the establishment of automobile plants in Mexico, Brazil, Thailand, Indonesia, India and China. Also under Ito’s leadership, Honda succeeded in solidifying its business foundation by enhancing its product development capabilities—from the hugely popular N-series mini-vehicles, to automobile powertrain development as represented by the Earth Dreams Technology, to the establishment of product development structures in each of Honda’s global regional operations. Furthermore, an all-new FCV that Ito has led in an effort to realize a CO₂-free automobile, as well as “fun to drive” vehicles including the S660, Civic Type R and NSX models are scheduled to be launched during the fiscal year ending March, 2016. Likewise, Honda’s participation in Formula 1, the pinnacle of automobile racing, and foray into aviation businesses with HondaJet and jet engine will take place during the same period.

New Honda 6-seater minivan- Honda Jade

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. today announced it would begin sales of the all-new JADE at dealerships across Japan on February 13, 2015. The all-new JADE is a 6-seat passenger vehicle that features powerful and high-quality driving performance, while realizing minivan-class occupant comfort and utility inside its beautifully formed body with a total vehicle height as low as a sedan.

The all-new JADE features an ultrahigh-density low-floor platform for which the underbody and underfloor components are thoroughly downsized and efficiently organized. The three-row seating was realized in the low-height, stylishly-designed body that is compatible with most multi-level parking garages. The first row occupants will enjoy an exhilarating ride with a commanding view, while second row occupants also enjoy a comfortable front view thanks to the newly-adopted seat-sliding mechanism. The third row space accommodates a variety of uses.

Moreover, the all-new JADE is equipped with Honda SENSING, Honda’s advanced driver-assistive system that expanded its scope of detection to include pedestrians^*1. As for the powertrain, the all-new JADE is equipped with the Honda Sport Hybrid i-DCD^*2, a hybrid system based on the 1.5L direct injection DOHC i-VTEC engine, realizing high-quality and comfortable driving for all speed ranges from low to high as well as excellent fuel economy of 25.0km/L (JC08 mode)^*3 that is at the top level of its class^*4.

Passion behind the name of JADE
The name JADE represents the passion of the development team which strived to create a vehicle that possesses jewel-like beauty and enduring value and yet fulfills the needs of the new era.

*1 The system may not work or deliver full performance depending on road and weather conditions.

*2 i-DCD stands for “intelligent Dual Clutch Drive.”

*3 HYBRID type was tested by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism in Japan.

*4 Passenger minivan class (Honda internal research as of February 2015)

JADE HYBRID X		JADE HYBRID X with optional parts

●Sales plan (in Japan, monthly, series total):

3,000 units

●Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (in Japan)

＜JADE＞

◎shown in the photo

Type	Engine	Transmission	Drive	Price with 8% consumption tax
HYBRID	1.5L direct injection DOHC i-VTEC i-DCD	7-speed DCT with built-in high output motor	FWD	2,720,000 yen
HYBRID X				2,920,000 yen	◎

* The price does not include insurance premium, taxes (excluding consumption tax) and cost related to vehicle registration.

* Based on the automobile recycling law, a separate recycling charge will be necessary. The recycling charge includes a recycling deposit (cost necessary to recycle shredder dust, air bags, chlorofluorocarbon (CFCs) and information management cost) and a fund management cost.

* 37,800 yen (35,000 yen excluding consumption tax) extra charge for White Orchid Pearl, Super Platinum Metallic, Premium Deep Rosso Pearl, Premium Blue Opal Metallic

 

Key features of the all-new JADE

■Cabin space and packaging pursue occupant comfort and user-friendliness to enable flexible use

・For the first row seats, a sedan-like driving position was realized in an effort to create an exhilarating driving experience. Information obtained from the road surface will be conveyed to the driver to help realize a comfortable driving feel.

・The second row seats named “V-slide captain’s seats” feature a new system that avoids the rear wheelhouse and enables a long and diagonally backward slide to create large legroom. As the seats slides backward, it comes inward; therefore, the second row passengers can enjoy a comfortable frontal view.

・For the third row seats, a “50:50 split housing structure” was adopted to enable the users to fold the right and left seats independently depending on their intended use of the vehicle as well as the size and shape of the cargo. With simple operation by pulling a strap, a flat and user friendly luggage space will be created.

・Spacious cargo room and elbowroom for third row occupants is secured by positioning the IPU (intelligent power unit) of the hybrid system inside the center console for the first time for a Honda hybrid model.

■Ultra high-density low-floor platform with more compact and thinner components

・In order to secure a spacious cabin while keeping the vehicle height low, a high density and low-floor platform was created. To this end, the fuel tank and exhaust system were made more compact and thinner, and a double wishbone suspension was adopted to make the low-floor possible. Moreover, a flat floor space for the third row passengers was realized by curving the upper arm of the rear suspensions.

■Sedan-like low-height exterior design enhances the joy of ownership

・The “Solid Wing Face,” Honda’s design identity that connects the grille and headlights with a horizontal motif, was adopted for the front mask.

・With the low vehicle height of 1,530mm, JADE is compatible with most multilevel parking garages. In the effort to make it easy to use in an urban environment, the vehicle length was set at 4,650mm to realize both a spacious cabin and easy handling.

・While the rear combination lamps express unity with the rear window through a flowing design, the tail lamps and brake lamps feature LED lights offering sense of high-quality.

■Interior design pursues a sophistication and innovative spirit

・A dynamic and symmetrical flat panel extends across from behind the steering wheel to the passenger side, and the use of a silver-rimmed wood-grain decorative panel calls up the image of a piece of high-end furniture.

・Close attention was paid to the visual and tactile sense of the materials. The Prime Smooth^*5, a stain-resistant and easy-care material that is soft and comfortable to the touch, is used for the outer portion of the seat, and breathable and wear-resistant material that is typically used for sportswear is used for the seating surface and backrest, making these seats both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

*5 Available for certain types.

■Honda Sport Hybrid i-DCD realizes both top-in-class level^*6 fuel economy and dynamic driving performance

・The all-new JADE is equipped with the Honda Sport Hybrid i-DCD, which combines a 1.5L direct injection DOHC i-VTEC engine with a 7-speed DCT incorporating a built-in high output motor and IPU with a built-in lithium-ion battery, to realize excellent fuel economy of 25.0km/L (JC08 mode) that is at top level in its class^*6.

*6 Passenger minivan class (Honda internal research as of February 2015)

■Honda SENSING – Honda’s advanced driver-assistive system

・Honda SENSING is a system consisting of two types of sensors with different characteristics. One is a millimeter-wave radar located behind the front emblem, and the other is a monocular camera mounted on the upper, inside part of the windshield. With further improvement in performance, the new millimeter-wave radar expanded its scope of detection to include pedestrians^*7 regarded as being hard to detect due to their low rate of radio wave reflection, as well as the position and speed of target object. Moreover, the monocular camera identifies various attributes and the size of pedestrians and other target objects which come in range within approximately 60m ahead of the vehicle, achieving recognition with improved accuracy.

*7 There are limitations to the capabilities of each function (detecting capability or controlling capability). The system may not work or deliver full performance depending on road and weather conditions.

■Advanced features and safety performance enhances sense of security

・The all-new JADE features the LaneWatch™ system^*8, which displays a live image on the navigation system screen from a camera mounted on the outside bottom of the passenger mirror. By displaying the view of behind the vehicle on the passenger side, a hard spot for the driver to see, the system assists safe driving during lane changes, or while merging and making left turns.

・The all-new JADE features the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body that applies Honda’s original G-Force Control Technology (G-CON) to enhance self-protection and make it less aggressive to other vehicles in the event of a collision. The JADE also features the Pedestrian Injury Mitigation Body structure to absorb the impact of a collision in the front part of the body, which is at the highest risk of causing a pedestrian injury in the event of a collision.

・In the area of active safety, with the goal to prevent an accident before it happens, the all-new JADE features the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system, a Hill-Start Assist function as well as the Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) system that warns vehicles following behind of a sudden stop. These active safety functions are featured as standard equipment on all types.

Civic Type R and NSX Supercar Lead Host of Premieres from Honda at 2015 Geneva Motor Show

January 28, 2015 - Signaling a new era for the Honda brand in Europe, every model in the range will be new or refreshed in 2015, with many being unveiled in production guise for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show in (this coming) March (2015). Performance cars for road and track, family cars and a fuel cell concept will all feature on the Honda stand.

The return of two performance legends

Geneva will see the global premiere of the Honda Civic Type R production car. The ‘race car for the road‘ will be the most extreme Type R ever built, with blistering performance and thrilling dynamics that set new standards in the segment. A world-first application of Honda’s new 2.0 liter VTEC Turbo engine, aggressive function-led styling and pioneering new chassis technologies combine to deliver one of the most immersive and rewarding driving experiences available in any sector.

For fans keenly anticipating the launch of Honda’s latest hot hatch icon, a dedicated Type R microsite goes live on 28 January. Here fans can explore and share Type R content, in order to gain access to exclusive snapshots of the performance hatchback ahead of its debut in Geneva: http://youtu.be/LJla-AlnlqY

Hot from its global debut in Detroit, the much-anticipated production Honda NSX will make its European debut in Switzerland, twenty-five years after the original. The hybrid supercar has been specifically created to deliver a ‘new sports experience,’ challenging conventional beliefs about the supercar segment.

New HR-V and Jazz

Production models of Honda’s all-new HR-V and Jazz will debut ahead of their market launches later in 2015.

The all-new HR-V blends the styling of a coupe with the toughness, space and utility of a SUV in a sporty, characterful and versatile B-segment crossover. Re-entering the segment that Honda pioneered with the original HR-V in 1998, the new 2015 model features eye-catching exterior styling, fun-to-drive performance, class-leading fuel economy and unmatched interior spaciousness.

With a sophisticated new look and an upgraded interior, the third-generation Jazz also makes its debut in Geneva. This car has been redesigned from the ground up, building on the strong reputation of its predecessors and featuring a brand new 1.3 liter petrol engine.

Looking to the future

The Honda FCV Concept demonstrates the exterior and interior styling evolution of the next-generation zero emissions Honda fuel-cell vehicle.

The FCV Concept is intended to provide significant gains in packaging, interior space, cost reduction and real-world performance, including an anticipated driving range in excess of 300 miles and a refuelling time of three to five minutes.

Iconic McLaren-Honda partnership returns

The 2015 McLaren-Honda Formula 1 racecar will also be on show at Geneva ahead of its competitive debut at the season opener in Melbourne, Australia on March 15. The new partnership aims to create a legacy to surpass that of the original, when four Constructors’ World Championships were won in four years between 1988 and 1991.

Honda can be found at stand 4250 in Hall 4 at the 85th Geneva Motor Show (March 3 - 15).

HONDA MALAYSIA TARGETS 85,000 SALES UNITS IN 2015

• Honda Malaysia achieved 77,485 sales units in 2014, 50% year-on-year growth 
• Total Industry Volume (TIV) is anticipated at 697,000 units for 2015 with a 4.5% year-on-year growth

Following a highly successful 2014, Honda Malaysia aims to increase its market share to more than 12% in 2015 with a sales target of 85,000 units. With an anticipated year-on-year growth of 4.5% to 697,000 units for the TIV in 2015, Honda Malaysia is confident of achieving its sales target by continuing to strengthen its mid-term strategy here in Malaysia



This challenging target for 2015 rides on the back of an outstanding year in 2014 where Honda Malaysia exceeded its sales target of 76,000 units to achieve 77,485 units. The success of 2014 translated to an increase in market share to an estimated 11.6% against the estimated 2014 TIV of 667,000 units. This was an increase of 3.7 points from the 7.9% that Honda Malaysia achieved in 2013. The strong sales in 2014 was a great achievement, and by doing so Honda Malaysia also took the No. 1 position in the Non-National Passenger Vehicle segment for the first time in its history.

Honda Malaysia Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Yoichiro Ueno said, "This success was made possible with the support and trust in the brand from Malaysian customers."

"Three years ago, Honda Malaysia set a mid-term strategy to elevate our business to 100,000 units and started our preparation for enhancing the competitiveness of our products, increasing production capacity and expanding our dealer network," Mr. Ueno said.

These combined efforts resulted in the successful launch of fresh, entry models to meet market demands - the All-New City and All-New Jazz, which received great response from the market and contributed nearly 70% of Honda's sales last year. Since its launch in March, and until December, the City became the best-selling model in the Non-National B-segment, whereas the Jazz, led the Non-National Hatchback segment. At the same time, the CR-V and Accord also continued to be the best-selling models in their respective segments.

In cementing its stronghold in the market and realising competitive pricing, Honda Malaysia increased its production capacity with the opening of the No. 2 Line in Malacca. This in turn allowed Honda Malaysia to meet the anticipated increase in sales with a shorter product-to-market time with the ability to produce 100,000 units per year.

Honda Malaysia plans to build on the momentum into 2015 by continuing to excite customers with quality products, exciting new models, efficient product-to-market time and excellent services.

Despite offering affordable value-for-money vehicles, safety has always been a priority for Honda. All Honda Malaysia models come fitted with advanced safety features that meet international standards. This emphasis on safety is attested by the numerous safety awards that Honda models has been recognised with.

Some of the safety awards under Honda Malaysia?s belt include an award for Safety Technology for its LaneWatch feature and five awards in Crash Worthiness Performance at the First ASEAN NCAP Grand Prix. Notable wins include the CR-V being named the safest SUV and the All-New City named the Overall Winner for the Adult Occupant Protection (AOP). All current models sold in Malaysia that have been tested by the ASEAN NCAP, have been awarded 5-star rating.

As it continues to grow its sales in Malaysia, Honda supports its customers with an expanding network of dealers nationwide. Currently, there are 77 dealers in Malaysia. Honda Malaysia is targeting to have 90 dealers by 2016 and also increase the number of Body and Paint Centres to 18.

Honda Malaysia believes that 2015 will be a year of tough competition and rapid market movements, and is ready to challenge itself to maintain the momentum from 2014.

Highlights of the 4G CR-V MMC

The 'refresh' or MMC of the 4th Gen CR-V sort of caught me by surprise as I was carried away with the launch of the 2G NSX as well as the excitement of the coming HR-V launch. Nevertheless, it is a very welcome update to the extremely successful CR-V model which should allow Honda to retain its leadership in this segment. 

Here, I cover very briefly the highlights of the CR-V MMC whilst working on a proper coverage article for for the near future.

Overall, this CR-V MMC can be considered a very straightforward face-lift, with minor changes to the styling of the front and the rear. There are also some minor changes to the cabin. All the main change has been for equipment and accessory, with the 2.4l variant being further enhanced with high-end equipment like Honda's Lane Change system, Bluetooth connectivity, HDMI input and others. 

Specifications and mechanical-wise, Honda Malaysia says the engines and gearbox remains the same as before. The engine choice remains between the 155ps R20A SOHC i-VTEC and the 190ps K20A DOHC i-VTEC. However, neither of these are Earth Dreams technology. Here, the most significant change is the addition of the 2WD option for the 2.0l variant, thus turning the CR-V line-up into a three variants line-up; 2.0l 2WD, 2.0l 4WD, and 2.4l 4WD. 

The CR-V has always been '4WD' since its first generation and this is the first time a 2WD CR-V has come to Malaysia. One disappointment is that all the variants continues to be equipped with the 5AT. The Thai 2.0l CR-V now comes with the CVT, so I was expecting the same for Malaysia as well. When asked during the press conference, the answer to 'why no CVT?' is 'we determined the 5AT to be most suitable for Malaysia'. 

The 2WD variant is supposed added because of continous inquiries from potential customers. This variant is very important because the generally dim economic outlook for most of ASEAN means price point will become more and more important in making or breaking a sale. So the 2WD variant allows Honda Malaysia to significantly lower the entry cost of CR-V ownership.

Exterior colour choices is now with 5 options - Modern Steel Metallic, Taffeta White (solid colour), Twilight Blue Metallic, Alabaster Silver Metallic and Crystal Black Pearl. Interior colour remains only at Black. 

 

Video of the unveiling ceremony of the 4G CR-V MMC

Honda Malaysia says up to 15% of CR-V buyers in the past have also bought their accessory package especially the bodykit. So this time they offer up to 4 choices of accessories with package prices ranging from as low as RM2,650 to as high as RM6,000.

Warantty is now 5-years of unlimited mileage with service intervals of 10,000km and 6 free labour service if alternated with paid service (i.e. for a total of 100,000km service). 

Prices are 169,800 for the top 2.4l variant, 150,800 for the regular 2.0l 4WD variant and a very attractive 139,800 for the 2.0l 2WD variant. The price point for the 2.0 2WD brings it down to almost Civic 2.0 level and will make it competitive with the new generation of SUVs from Mazda, Peugeot, etc in addition to the traditional Nissan X-Trail. For a change, Toyota actually does not have a viable offering in this segment as their Rush is simply too low-end and the Harrier too high-end. This is good news as with this MMC, the CR-V should continue its winning ways and dominate the market segment.