PETALING JAYA: After months of evaluating the best cars of 2021 and 2022, the winners of the CarSifu Editors’ Choice Awards 2022 were finally announced at a presentation event and gala dinner at M Resort Kuala Lumpur last night.

In this year’s edition, 50 vehicles from 22 brands were shortlisted to compete in 28 categories.
The awards organised by Star Media Group are open for vehicles launched in Malaysia from Jan 1, 2021 to Sept 30, 2022.

A Special Recognition Award for the First Locally Assembled Electric Vehicle was also created for this year’s award.

Local Car of the Year 2022
Perodua Alza AV

The second-generation Alza shows how far Perodua has come in improving a model that has bloomed into a people carrier that is hands-down a value-for-money proposition. It’s truly a case of smart packaging that’s tuned to the needs and taste of Malaysians.


Asian Car of the Year 2022
Honda HR-V e:HEV RS

Continuing the appeal of the previous generation model that had sold over 111,000 units during a seven-year run, the all-new Honda HR-V sports utility has taken new cues in styling, smart safety and connectivity features. The e:HEV RS top variant, meanwhile, gets an innovative hybrid powertrain system that delivers fuel efficiency without affecting the fun-to-drive factor.


Continental Car of the Year 2022
Mercedes-Benz C 300 AMG Line

As one of the favourite local executive sedans, the all-new Mercedes-Benz C 300 AMG Line exudes fresh exterior styling with premium dashboard design that features a high-resolution 12.3-inch free-standing driver display and an 11.9-inch central touchscreen to stay ahead of rivals. In addition to an intelligent driving system, the C 300 AMG Line also delivers sporty handling and performance along with reduced fuel consumption aided by a mild hybrid drive.


Special Recognition Award
First Locally Assembled EV
Volvo XC40 Recharge Pure Electric

The Volvo XC40 Recharge Pure Electric goes to show that locally assembled electric vehicles are a winning proposition for Malaysians as they get the same quality at lower prices.
In addition to securing an overwhelming response to the XC40 Recharge Pure Electric, Volvo Car Malaysia has also taken the initiative ahead of other manufacturers by shipping locally assembled electric cars to markets in Asean and establishing Malaysia as a regional electric vehicle hub.


Best Sub-compact Hatchback
Perodua Myvi AV

It’s a close call between the Perodua Myvi and its rival but ultimately the Myvi pulls ahead with a sportier interior, better fuel economy and far superior safety suite with active safety features that are a class ahead. It helps that the Myvi also has better resale value come time to upgrade.


Best Mid-size Hatchback
Volkswagen Golf R-Line

The Volkswagen Golf R-Line has a more expressive and premium look outside and in of the segment. It benefits from better performance and enhanced digitalisation that includes intelligent voice control and a customisable digital meter cluster that puts it firmly in the modern age.


Best Mid-size Sedan
Honda Civic RS

The latest generation Civic RS builds on the success of its predecessor with improved sporty performance, handling and a more premium interior styling. Also adding to the Civic RS’ appeal is its upgraded suite of active smart driving features.'


Best Large Sedan
Toyota Camry 2.5V

Although the Toyota Camry 2.5V is said to be a facelift, the model comes with a host of major improvements that solidify its stature as a premium sedan. Among the key features are the more powerful and refined 2.5-litre Dynamic Force engine with port and direct injection, eight-speed Direct Shift sequential automatic transmission, power rear seats with a backrest recline and Toyota Safety Sense with Pre-Collision System.

Best Small SUV
Honda HR-V e:HEV RS

As one of the highly sought-after models of 2022, the Honda HR-V certainly wins new fans with its blend of urban styling in an upscale sports utility vehicle body styling. The HR-V e:HEV RS hybrid also comes packed with active and smart driver aids, and delivers more than satisfying performance and fuel efficiency for all driving needs.


Best Mid-size SUV
Peugeot 3008 Allure

Stylish flair has always been Peugeot’s forte bolstered by the borderless grille and fanged lighting. The French SUV takes the lead in its category with refined and trendy features, a more powerful engine and a panoramic sunroof that adds an airy cabin ambience.


Best Large SUV
Proton X70 1.5TGDI
Premium 2WD

While the new Proton X70 comes with a smaller 1.5-litre 3-cylinder TGDI engine, the sports utility vehicle still cranks out more than enough driving performance for daily runs, along with better fuel economy compared with the previous line-up equipped with a larger 1.8L TGDI X70. To top off, owners will also enjoy an easier purchase price along with lower long-term ownership costs.


Best Large SUV (4X4)
Subaru Forester GT Edition

Known for its spacious interior with a high ceiling, the Forester excites with Subaru’s trademark permanent all-wheel drive system for exceptional handling on the tarmac and loose soil.
The inclusion of the EyeSight Advanced Driver Assist Technology further elevates
this SUV’s safety features to that of a premium vehicle.


Best Large SUV (3-row seating)
Mazda CX-9 Ignite

While the CX-9 and its rivals are closely matched in most areas, the CX-9 gets a price advantage. It has a cabin that looks cleaner and packs a better infotainment system plus a 5-year warranty package that doesn’t require additional outlay. The surround view camera also adds to parking convenience.

Best Compact Luxury Sedan
Mercedes-Benz C 300 AMG Line

The all-new Mercedes-Benz C-Class gets more stylish looks along with a longer wheelbase for increased legroom and comfort. Aside from sure-footed handling, the top-of-the-line C 300 AMG Line features a powerful 2.0-litre turbocharged engine with mild hybrid assistance that is capable of both refined cruising and sporty performance when summoned.


Best Mid-size Luxury Sedan
Lexus ES 250 F Sport

The new ES 250 F Sport pulls off a combination of luxury and comfort with typical Lexus smoothness. The ride and handling are poise as befits a luxury cruiser. It executes its mandate in a polished manner.


Best Small Luxury SUV
Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 4Matic

The Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 comes with an enthusiastic 2.0-litre turbocharged engine that easily unleashes an attention-drawing sporty roar. In addition to a more distinctive face with its Panamericana grille and dark interior, the 4Matic system allows every bit of power to be delivered to all wheels for the most engaging driving experience of its segment.

> PART 2

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