"Following our popular Eastar MPV, the Maxime is a second-generation vehicle that has a focus on enhanced quality. In the past three years, Chery's focus has been more on improving product quality and after-sales services, rather than new product launches," said Chery Automobile (M) Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Zhang Guibing.
"We want to build a solid foundation for Chery's growth," added Zhang, who is also Chery International vice president, at the recent launch of the Maxime at Superhub Auto Sdn Bhd car showroom in IOI Business Park, Puchong.
Also present was Superhub Auto chairman Datuk Lee Leck Cheng.
The locally assembled Maxime, which replaces the Eastar MPV, is priced at RM86,800 on-the-road with insurance and has a a five-year or 150,000km warranty.
Buyers can add RM7,000 for a premium package consisting of leather seats, body kit and Safetint IR-8060 window tint film.
Also, the first 200 buyers of the Maxime can enjoy a two-year free vehicle maintenance package.
The Maxime is powered by a 2.0-litre petrol DVVT (dual variable valve timing) engine that delivers 136hp at 5,750rpm and 182Nm at 4,300 to 4,500rpm.
This is an upgraded version of the Acteco engine in the Eastar, which was developed by Austrian powertrain technology firm AVL.
Chery Automobile (M) Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Zhang Guibing (left) and Superhub Auto chairman Datuk Lee Leck Cheng, with the new Chery Maxime seven-seater MPV.
Transmission is a 7-speed CVT (continuously variable transmission) with manual mode, and the Maxime has a wheelbase of 2,800mm and a kerb weight of 1,590kg.
According to Chery, the Maxime has a fuel consumption of 7.7 litres per 100km when driven at constant speed of 90kph.
It has all-round disc brakes, cruise control, MP3 and USB-capable audio system, DRLs (daytime running lights) amd 205/55 R16 tyres.
Safety and security features include dual front airbags, pre-tensioner safety belt, ISOFIX child seat points, a reverse sensor, ABS (anti-lock braking system), EBD (electronic brakeforce distribution) as well as anti-theft and engine immobiliser.
