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New Subaru XV Premiered at Indonesia International Motor Show

October 7, 2012 Leave a comment

PT. TC Subaru, the authorized distributor of Subaru in Indonesia, launched the Subaru XV, a new generation crossover model that redefines and blends exceptional SUV practicality with a fashionable form.

The Subaru XV marketed in Indonesia will be assembled and imported from Malaysia and is the first Subaru model to roll off the production lines at an existing production facility of Tan Chong Motor Assemblies Sdn. Bhd (TCMA). The same model will also be available in Thailand and Malaysia.

Specifically designed for customers looking for a vehicle that offers looks and functionality, stretching beyond those of existing crossover models, the new Subaru XV is defined by five characteristics:

- Sleek but Muscular Design

- Environmental Performance and Nimble Drive

- Improved visibility and reduction of blind angles for enhanced safety

- Spacious, Relaxing Cabin and Cargo Space

- Performance and Equipment Suited to Urban Life

The Subaru XV 2.0i comes with the all-new Subaru Boxer engine, providing excellent acceleration response with a high level of torque even at low speeds. Already in its third generation, Subaru’s highly acclaimed horizontally opposed engine now features a long- stroke design for better fuel efficiency. Thanks to Subaru’s symmetrical AWD (All-Wheel Drive) system, the drive delivers a sense of stability that would not normally be expected of a high-body vehicle.

The 2.0-litre Boxer engine with Lineartronic CVT gearbox has brought about improvements in fuel efficiency and exhaust performance. The engine enables excellent accelerating performance and responsiveness, which allows drivers to experience a feeling of instant acceleration when the accelerator is lightly depressed.

With a low centre-of-gravity, the XV delivers an unexpectedly smooth ride, considering its body height. The playful XV design is characterised by a fusion of powerful lower body motif and a stylish urban form. Just like running shoes, it achieves a fusion of casual and function, with a dash of fashion.

“We are confident that the new Subaru XV is going to be a hit.” says Mr. Glenn Tan, President Director of PT. TC Subaru. “The specifications fit very well for the Indonesia market and the price is very affordable for an All-Wheel Drive SUV. The XV marries the best of both worlds that drivers have been waiting for, by fulfilling modern practical needs and economy, with a combination of the sense of security and urban looks expected of an SUV. This is the car that any Indonesian family should have – stylish and spacious, but durable, safe and fuel efficient.”

The new Subaru XV retailing from Rp. 338 million (XV 2.0i) to Rp 359 million (XV 2.0i Premium), the Subaru XV is now available at Motor Image showrooms and dealers located at Pondok Indah, Kelapa Gading, Pluit, Alam Sutera, Bali, Batam, Surabaya, Medan, Pekanbaru, Balikpapan, Samarinda, Padang, Bandung, Solo, Banjarmasin and Manado.

Photo Gallery: Subaru @ 2012 IIMS

2012 Subaru Forester 2.0X and 2.5XT in Malaysia with Attractive Price!

September 12, 2012 Leave a comment

With new business direction and company mission, Motor Image Malaysia has revised the price of the new 2012 Subaru Forester to be more affordable in Malaysia with a re-introductory price since July 2012. The Subaru Forester will be competing in SUV segment like the Honda CR-V, Nissan X-Trail, Mazda CX-5 and Mitsubishi ASX.

As we can see, Motor Image Malaysia is now gearing up their presence and preparing to grow their market shares in Malaysia. Besides that, the commitment of Motor Image is clearly noticeable with the upcoming locally-assembled Subaru XV. The new Subaru’s compact SUV will be assembled by Tan Chong Motor Assemblies Sdn Bhd (TCMA) in Segambut, Kuala Lumpur.

Don’t be mistaken as both the Subaru Forester is fully imported from Japan. With the massive price adjustment, it does magnetize us to visit the Subaru’s headquarter @ Jalan 51A/223 in Petaling Jaya to check out the cars and we drove the magnificent turbocharged Forester 2.5XT SUV.

The standard entry model of Subaru Forester 2.0X AWD is now selling at RM 154,339.20 on-the-road with insurance. While the more powerful variant, the turbocharged Subaru Forester 2.5 XT AWD is now priced at RM 185,514.90 on-the-road with insurance. The Subaru Forester 2.5XT AWD was previously selling from RM 220,000 in Malaysia before the price is revised.

Comparing the Forester 2.0X and 2.5XT, both variants come with all-wheel drive (AWD) drive train and 4-speed SPORTSHIFT automatic transmission. The 2.0X is powered by the new Subaru’s FB series 2.0-litre natural aspirated 4 cylinder boxer engine with Active Valve Control System (AVCS) that producing 150PS @ 6,000rpm and a maximum torque of 198Nm @ 4,200rpm. The upper range 2.5XT, the SUV is powered by 2.5-litre turbocharged 4 cylinder boxer engine that outputs 230PS @ 5,200rpm and a max torque of 320Nm @ 2,800rpm. The nature of both engines are fully compatible with RON95 Unleaded Fuel. Unlike other fully imported SUVs, which claimed to be RON95 compatible but RON97 is recommended.

Acceleration from 0-100km/h*

Subaru Forester 2.0X Auto – 12.4 seconds

Subaru Forester 2.5XT Auto– 7.9 seconds

* Based on manufacturer’s specification

The Subaru Forester 2.0X comes standard with ABS + EBD, Vehicle Dynamics Control System (VDC), all disc brakes, dual SRS airbags, 16-inch aluminium alloy wheels with 215/65 R16 tyres, electric pinion assist type power steering system, roof rails, retractable cargo cover, auto climate system with filter, front fog lamps, cruise control, 3x 12V power outlets, 2 Din single disc audio system with bluetooth hands-free system, steering mounted audio switches, USB and aux input jack.

Akihide Takeuchi Interviewed On The All-New Subaru XV

June 19, 2012 1 Comment

Many of you know that the all-new Subaru XV will be one of the model that will be locally assembled (CKD) in Malaysia. Precisely, the production will begin in October 2012 at an existing production facility of Tan Chong Motor Assemblies Sdn Bhd (TCMA).

The Subaru XV from TCMA’s production will be marketed in Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia. Before we are able to gather more information like which models and what specifications. Do check out the video below by Akihide Takeuchi, the project leader for the all-new Subaru XV. He walkthrough the design & concept of the next-generation crossover - Subaru XV, unfortunately the video is in Nihongo. Anyway, enjoy watching the YouTube video!

Subaru Unveils 2012 WRX STI Sedan @ Super GT Malaysia 2012

June 12, 2012 Leave a comment

At the media centre during the Super GT International Series Malaysia, we were advice by the event organiser that Subaru will be launching the BRZ. Unfortunately, it is a ‘scam’ or I should call it as misinformation. As due to that reason, my associate was so excited and twitting false information about the Subaru BRZ launch all over the internet. When the cloth was pulled off during the unveiling point, he was so shocked to see the all-new WRX STI sedan.

Subaru Impreza WRX STI Sedan Launch @ Super GT Malaysia 2012

Back to the truth, this special launch event is all about the highly anticipated Subaru Impreza WRX STI which features enhanced versions of Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and the Subaru Boxer Engine by the authorised distributor of Subaru in Malaysia – Motor Image Malaysia Sdn Bhd. The Subaru BRZ GT300 Super GT team and the GT race queens joined the launch as well.

The new 2012 Subaru Impreza WRX STI is available in both auto and manual transmission. The 5-speed automatic variant is powered by Subaru Boxer Engine that churning out 221kw (300ps)/6,200rpm and a max torque of 350Nm/3,000 – 6,000rpm. While for the 6 speed manual variant, the max output is 221kw (300ps)/6,000rpm with a max torque of 407Nm/4,000rpm. Based on the spec sheet, the manual is plainly offers more torque than the auto. Moreover, the Drivers Center Controlled Differential (DCCD) is exclusively equipped on the manual variant for better driving experience.

This car features some intelligent features including the Multi-Mode Vehicle Dynamics Control System (VDC System) which offers flexible performance for changing driving conditions. With three modes which include ‘Normal’ for everyday driving, ‘Traction’ to experience performance driving and best of all you can turn the entire system ‘Off’ for a fun time on the track.

The Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-Drive) allows the driver to select the driving mode that best suits the individual. Put it in ‘Intelligent’ mode for smooth power and optimal efficiency. Select ‘Sport’ mode for versatile command of every condition. To extract the maximum response from the turbo-charged engine, switch to ‘Sport Sharp’ mode. It gives the most direct throttle response and precise rev control across the entire RPM range.

On the outside, the car come with the wide functional wheel arches provide optimum airflow to the braking system while removing heat from the engine bay. The design of the deep front bumper, side sills and rear spoiler are claim to provide high speed down force and stability.

The starting price for the STI starts from RM 249,000 on-the-road and available for viewing at Motor Image Malaysia outlets in Petaling Jaya, Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru. By the way, we will provide a full review of this new 2012 Subaru Impreza WRX STI sedan once we get hold of the key to this superb machine.

During a short interview with Motor Image personnel during the launch, we learned that the authorised distributor is gearing up their presence in Malaysia with the introduction of two new outlets in the Klang Valley and the Northern region. In addition, the local assembled (CKD) Subaru XV compact SUV will also make its debut into the Malaysian market later this year. Unfortunately, the estimated price for the XV is still undisclosed.

Photo Gallery: Subaru Impreza WRX STI Sedan Launch @ Super GT Malaysia 2012

Subaru Impreza XV Concept To Be Locally Assembled in Malaysia For Asean Market

July 15, 2011 Leave a comment

On July 6, Fuji Heavy Industries (FHI) inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) about consignment production contract of Subaru vehicles with TC Subaru Sdn. Bhd for Asean market. At that moment, FHI only mentioned compact SUVs in their statement. Of course, many of us lift up their attention and curiosities on the model that will be locally assembled in Malaysia by Tan Chong Motor Assemblies Sdn Bhd (TCMA).

Wait no longer, we have confirmed with our contact in Subaru about it. The compact SUVs model was referred virtually pointing to the Subaru Impreza XV Concept. This model was unveiled at the 2011 Shanghai Auto Show back in April and lately in the 2011 Melbourne Motor Show.

The XV concept is a crossover version of the next-generation Impreza Outback Sport hatchback. Of course, the drivetrain of the XV will be based on Subaru’s signature Symmetrical AWD system. The XV uses a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder boxer engine with Dual Active Valve Control System (DAVCS) paired with CVT transmission. If there is no detuned to the 2.0-litre flat-4 engine, it will output 148HP and 197Nm of torque. Moreover, the XV Concept rides on a 103.7-inch wheelbase and fitted with a set of 245/45ZR19 tyres. Nevertheless, do not expect any fancy features such as panoramic glass roofs and large alloy wheels on the CKD XV.

The Subaru Impreza XV is targeted to begin production in October 2012 and supplying to Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and Singapore. We reckon the price will be competitive to its rivals like Hyundai Tucson and Honda CR-V. Personally, it will be even more tempting if the Subaru Forester is CKD as well.

Photo Gallery: Subaru Impreza XV concept