PETALING JAYA: A new year brings new hope for recovery following nearly two years of a punishing pandemic and massive floods in recent weeks.
These are challenging times without a doubt. But hope and cautious optimism spring eternal as we pick ourselves up and work towards a better tomorrow.
On that note, the Malaysian automotive industry is poised for stronger recovery in 2022, backed by the steady vehicle sales momentum that has been picking up pace since the reopening of the economy.
The following are some of the cars we can expect to make their way to Malaysia as we step into the new year. The list is by no means exhaustive but provides a broad brush of what's to come.
Proton 7-seater SUV
The new model is bigger than the X70 and will fit seven people.
The camouflaged full-size SUV (by Asian standards) had been spotted a number of times undergoing dynamic testing on public roads locally.
Based on Proton's SUV naming system, it's likely to be called the X90.
Assuming that's the case, the X90 is based on another Geely product called the Haoyue, which was introduced in China in mid-2020, and is available in 5 or 7-seat configuration there.
To "Malaysianise" the X90, local designers and engineers will certainly make some changes to design and possibly alter some mechanical components to set it apart from the Haoyue, which happens to be the biggest SUV available from Geely.
The current X70's 1.8-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine is deemed powerful enough to motivate the heavier X90. To recap, it produces 179hp and 300Nm of torque, transmitted to the wheels via a 7-speed dual clutch gearbox.
Perodua Alza
The Alza is looking dated, having been around for the past 12 years.
Perodua agrees and is set to produce the second-generation Alza from January 2022, with launch in mid-year as automakers work on easing supply chain issues of chips and other parts.
As it has done in the past, Perodua will base its products on what Daihatsu has to offer in this segment. In this case, the Xenia from Daihatsu is the right match. The latest Xenia is already on sale in Indonesia.
Note that the Toyota Avanza shares the Xenia's bones, both being built on top of the new Daihatsu New Global Architecture (DNGA).
So expect a 1.5-litre dual VVT-i engine and dual mode CVT in the new Alza. It will also feature advanced driver-assistance systems comparable to what is available in the facelifted Myvi hatch.
The all-new Golf and GTI will make a joint debut soon. And we can't imagine it any sooner than January at this point. It's been a long time coming.
Both model variants were showcased in the metal at a surprising setting in November.
What will excite potential customers is that both cars are to be locally assembled, and that will certainly save buyers a pretty penny.
In terms of its technology, the Golf is making the greatest leap forward since its debut in 1974.
The latest Golf has a digital interior that enables for a new dimension of intuitive operation while having the ability to cruise up to 210kph with assisted driving.
The Golf in R Line trim is powered by a 1.4 litre TSI engine, and a regular eight-speed automatic instead of the 6-speed dual-clutch gearbox (DSG) previously. The engine is carried over from its predecessor, and makes 148hp/250Nm.
As for the beefier GTI, its 2.0L TSI powerplant now offers more power and torque, delivering 242hp (+15hp) and 370Nm (+20Nm). The engine is mated to a 7-speed DSG.
Early this month, VW AG had announced new software updates for the Golf to improve voice controls, so hopefully we will be getting the latest updates when the cars hit Malaysian showrooms.
The all-new 11th generation Honda Civic comes with a new level of elegance while improving upon the sporty performance of the outgoing model.
While new 1.5-litre turbo VTEC engine coupled to a continuous variable transmission is more powerful and torquey, the incoming model also features better ride and handling capabilities.
Inside, the Civic gets a totally redesigned dashboard, mesh-type air vents, a freestanding centre infotainment display and more legroom for front and rear occupants.
The hybrid variant of the Corolla Cross will benefit from local assembly that results in lower pricing for buyers.
Basically similar to the petrol-powered version that was launched early 2021, the Corolla Cross Hybrid delivers lower fuel consumption of 4.3 litres per 100km, much better than the petrol variant's 6.6 litres per 100km.
Along with an electric continuously variable transmission, its 1.8-litre engine and electric motor combination delivers a total output of 122PS for an exhilarating driving experience for this C-segment sports utility vehicle.
This all-new Sorento large sports utility vehicle comes vastly redesigned from the previous generation and features a larger body as well as more cutting-edge styling.
The "tiger nose" grille has been enlarged and is more aggressive-looking compared with previous generations.
The locally-assembled model is likely to be equipped with a 2.5-litre block coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission.
The smallest Peugeot SUV will complete the SUV range available in Malaysia under new distributor Bermaz Auto Alliance Sdn Bhd, which took over the brand from Naza Group’s Nasim Sdn Bhd. The refreshed 3008 and 5008 made their debut locally on Nov 3.
After the launch of the combustion-engine 2008, the electric version called e-2008 is anticipated to be introduced in late 2022.
Peugeot is now part of the Stellantis group, which has taken charge of production at the former Naza plant in Gurun, Kedah. The new 2008 has just started to be exported to Thailand and its Malaysian launch is round the corner.
The new 2008 in Allure trim uses an improved version of the 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine, producng 128hp/230Nm, and coupled to a 6-speed auto.
Safety is to be enhanced with autonomous emergency braking.
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