Mercedes-Benz C-Class W205: A Baby S-Class at the Right Price? (Used Buying Guide)

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Mercedes-Benz C-Class W205: A Baby S-Class at the Right Price? (Used Buying...

By

Amarnath

While its more opulent brethren, the S-Class, might be the flagship of the marque, the introduction of more compact sedans allowed the fourth-generation
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
 W205 to make a leap closer to being a baby S-Class.

With the sedans in the A-Class range filling in the gap for more compact demands, the fourth iteration of the C-Class was free to take a leaf out of the S-Class playbook and raise the luxury stakes. Not that it needed it – the C-Class badge already held the mantle of being the distinguished gentleman’s choice among its German peers.

Although larger in every aspect, the W205 was the first model to use Mercedes’ all-new Modular Rear Architecture (MRA) platform that was significantly lighter, thanks to the extensive use of aluminum, resulting in an average reduction in weight of around 100kg to balance out the dimensional gains.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Variants Offered in Malaysia

The W205 was launched here in September 2014 and was available in three variants – the
C 200
 Avantgarde,
C 250
 Exclusive, and C 250 AMG Line. At the time, they were all CBU units from South Africa.

A 2015 Mercedes-Benz C 200 sold for RM143,300 on CARSOME

Powering the C 200 was the M274 DE20 LA engine. The 2.0-liter inline-four, turbocharged, direct-injected engine made 184 PS and 300 Nm of torque. In the C 250, the very same mill had a higher tune, making 211 PS and 350 Nm of torque. Both sent power to the rear wheels via the 7G-Tronic Plus automatic.

LED headlights were standard but the trick adaptive LED headlights would only arrive with the facelift.

To tell them apart, the C 200 had a centrally mounted emblem on the grille while the C 250 benefitted from the iconic standing hood ornament with Airpanels; active louvers that open or close for aero efficiency.

Both variants had Agility Select (alters the steering weight, throttle response, and transmission maps) but the C 200 rode on an Agility Control suspension that’s lowered by 15 mm while the C 250 was a tad bit higher with its comfort setup suspension.

Both trims shared powered front seats with memory, rear (powered) and side (manual) window blinds, auto lights and wipers, cruise control, reverse camera, and Active Parking Assist. However, keyless entry was exclusive to the C 250.

Finally, Locally Assembled C-Class Sedans

In April 2015, locally-assembled variants were introduced. Specs remained identical for the C 200 Avantgarde and C 250 Exclusive.

Almost a year later in February 2016, the C 200 Exclusive Line made its way here. Slotting between the C 200 Avantgarde and C 250 AMG Line meant cosmetically, it mimicked the C 250 with more elegant bumpers, the traditional grille, and that bonnet-mounted emblem.

Equipment-wise, it packed LED Intelligent Light System headlights, 18-inch wheels, and Comfort suspension that rides higher but still no keyless entry.

A 2018 Mercedes-Benz C 250 sold for RM195,200 on CARSOME

Introducing 2 New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Variants

A month later, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia updated the C-Class range with two new variants that sat at both ends of the C-Class spectrum. The C 180 Avantgarde Line was now the most affordable C-Class. And if you had a taste for the finer things in life, the C 300 AMG Line was all you needed to bag an actual AMG model. Here are details of what’s offered in the C 180 and C 300 variants.

Mercedes-Benz C 180

Power for the C 180 came from a smaller M274 DE16 LA engine. Its 1.6-liter displacement delivers 156 PS and 250 Nm of torque to the rear wheels via the same 7G-Tronic auto.

As the entry-level variant, the kit count rightly reflected that. It was mostly similar to the C 200 Avantgarde: you only got a single-zone air-conditioning system, no memory function for the powered seats, and no reverse camera but you did get Active Parking Assist.

Mercedes-Benz C 300

Even with the same M274 DE20 LA found in the C200, the higher state of tune meant that outputs in the C 300 were 245 PS and 370 Nm of torque.

Being the Mercedes-Benz C-Class range-topper, it was decked out in 19-inch AMG wheels, a sports exhaust system activated by Sport+ mode, triple-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. The Sports suspension lowered it by 15mm and it did light the way forward with the LED Intelligent Light System headlights with Adaptive Highbeam Assist.

The most significant pre-facelift upgrade though was the launch of the all-new 9G-Tronic automatic transmission in April 2017.

It was however only attached to the C 200 Avantgarde, C 200 Exclusive, and C 250 AMG Line.

While much lighter than the outgoing 7G-Tronic, the new transmission did negligibly increase fuel consumption but negated that with quicker sprinting and a higher top speed.

The touch pad on the center console of a Mercedes-Benz C 200

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Facelift Detailed

The swansong for the W205 came in November 2018 with the facelift. This time around, it was all locally assembled from launch. Only two variants were available in the form of the C 200 Avantgarde and the C 300 AMG Line.

Apart from some minor cosmetic revisions to the exterior, the biggest change was the Multibeam LED with 84 diodes and Ultra Range high-beam headlights for the C 300. At the aft, the LED taillights received new C-shaped guides for the light signature.

Performance

It wasn’t all cosmetic though as the range was now powered by new engines from the M264 family. The C 200 now had a little electrification to give an extra boost in performance. It got a smaller M264 E15 DEH LA 1.5-litre twin-scroll turbo inline-four engine that had 184 PS and 280 Nm of torque. To complement that, the EQ Boost 48V electrical system comprised a belt-driven starter/alternator that could dish out an additional 13 PS and 160 Nm of boost when required.

On the other hand, the C 300 made do with the M264 E20 DEH LA, 2.0-liter, twin-scroll turbocharged inline-four that brought 258 PS and 370 Nm of torque to the table without any electrical aid.

Both carried the 9G-Tronic transmission.

Other Features

Inside, there was a new steering wheel, a larger 12.3-inch display, and a digital instrument cluster.

This facelift also finally brought keyless entry to the C 200 as well as Agility Control suspension.

As for the C 300, it rode on the more comfortable Airmatic suspension and packed active lane-keep assist that represented the first form of ADAS in the W205.

That wasn’t all she wrote though. In July 2020, the complex and pricey EQ Boost powertrain in the C 200 was retired in favor of a more traditional pure internal combustion setup. The transition happened with the introduction of the C 200 AMG Line that reverted to the same engine from the C 300 with detuned performance producing 204 PS of power and 300 Nm of torque.

The AMG Line moniker meant it got the AMG alloys, a stiffer version of the Agility Control set-up from the C 200 Avantgarde, and active cruise control.

Used Market Prices

Unlike its public enemy number one from Munich (that’s BMW in case you’re wondering), the offerings from Stuttgart tend to hold their value a little better in the used car market; much to the detriment of potential buyers. Nonetheless, they say you always get what you pay for.

From a little browsing online, there’s a fair mix of officially imported and reconditioned Mercedes-Benz C-Class units in the market although it leans more towards the latter.

Fortunately, the abundance of variants that were available throughout its run here means that pricing doesn’t stray much between the varying badges.

Generally, 2014 models of the
C-Class
 hover around the RM140,000 m
ark and can climb all the way up to RM250,000 for the final year pre-facelift models.

As for the
C-Class facelift variants
, you’ll find that pricing starts at a much higher RM200,000 and stretches all the way to RM280,000 for final year units.

Ultimately, it all depends on the features you’re looking for and the amount of kick when you floor the throttle.

Which One to Get

For the most part, the W205 C-Class is pretty problem-free. That’s not to say it isn’t without some common handicaps but then again, there’s no perfect car. Still, almost all variants won’t cause you a headache, but we’ll have to draw the line at one particular one.

Whatever the price, it’s best to avoid the short-lived facelifted C 200 that came with the 1.5-liter engine and the EQ Boost hybrid assist. There have been cases of the hybrid system being problematic which is why they reverted back to a traditional internal combustion setup not long after.

Additionally, avoid Airmatic units because units with the regular Comfort suspension work just as well.  The Airmatic suspension is just another potential wallet-breaking feature that’s best avoided.

Common Problems

As is the norm with most premium continental machines, it’s best to suss out the potential weak points prior to signing on the dotted line. Here, we spoke to Danny Tan. He runs an independent Mercedes-Benz specialist workshop Benze Elite Auto in Puchong.

He says that one of the most common problems with the W205 C-Class is a cooling coil leak in the air-conditioning system. The symptoms start with cool air only on one side of the vehicle before it stops altogether. You’ll need to replace the cooling coil, condenser, and expansion valve to remedy it. OEM parts will be in the region of RM3,000 while original ones will be about double that figure.

On the side of cooling but for the engine, the coolant system can also spring a leak via the thermostat. That’s going to set you back around RM1,000.

More common failures include the alternator and fuel pump which will set you back about RM2,000.

Undercarriage noises can be attributed to worn bushings and control arm joints. Your alternatives are to replace the bushing for around RM400 or replace the entire arm with an OEM piece for about RM500. If you’re all about the original parts, you’ll be looking at RM1,100 or so for each arm as they don’t sell the bushings on their own.

Conclusion

A well-maintained W205
C-Class
 might have a few years under its belt but will continue to serve you for many more to come. If you come across a unit without a full service history, that’s an immediate red flag.

With CARSOME Certified cars, you’ll never have to worry about it as every unit undergoes a full 175-point inspection for complete peace of mind.

Buy CARSOME Certified for Peace of Mind

Here at CARSOME, we believe in creating an end-to-end buying journey to eliminate the concerns common in a traditional used car buying experience.
CARSOME Certified
 is the new standard of buying pre-owned cars backed up by our
175-point inspection
 together with our
CARSOME Certified Refurbishment Process
. By creating a trusted used car ecosystem, CARSOME Certified guarantees trust, transparency, and choice.

Check out our CARSOME Certified Cars
here
.

Amarnath


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Mercedes-Benz E-Class W212: Understated Elegance with a Commanding Presence. (Used Buying Guide)

By

Amarnath

Some might argue that the
Mercedes-Benz E-Class
 slips under the radar against its more prominent sedan siblings, the
C-Class
 and flagship S-Class. Nonetheless, that very same argument is testament to the mid-sized executive sedan’s understated elegance that is a perfect fit for those who don’t want to scream for attention but still want to make a strong enough statement that they’ve arrived, figuratively and literally.

As the fourth generation in the E-Class lineage, the W212 E-Class didn’t tear up the rule book but instead built on the foundations of its predecessors to further build on that reputation and on what the badge stood for.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Variants Offered in Malaysia

We’ll be shining the spotlight solely on the facelifted W212 as its age makes it an ideal proposition under the circumstances.

A 2019 Mercedes-Benz E 200 sold for RM250,400 on CARSOME

When the facelifted W212 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was launched in Malaysia in August 2013, the significantly redesigned front end garnered a love-it or hate-it reaction from fans. Gone were the split headlights, leaving the pre-facelift W212 as the last Mercedes-Benz to ever carry that design cue.

That said, even by the standards of European marques, the facelift exercise for the W212 E-Class was considered one of the most significant model revisions ever by Mercedes-Benz. It purported to have cost them close to the tune of 1 billion Euros, the same amount some brands spend for an all-new model.

Looks aside, the facelift came in E 200 Avantgarde and E 250 CGI Avantgarde trim.

Performance

Both were powered by the same engine, a new 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four dubbed the M274 DE20 LA. The new powerplant had fast-acting piezo injectors, multi-spark ignition, fully-variable camshaft adjustment on the inlet and exhaust side, as well as a controlled oil pump for improved efficiency.

With the engine being the same, only different states of tune differentiated the performance aspect between the two variants.

The E200 made 184 bhp and 300 Nm of torque while the E250 brought a heftier punch with 211 bhp and 350 Nm of torque. Both sent power to the rear wheels via the 7G-Tronic Plus automatic transmission.

Features

The new integrated singular headlights were now full-LED units for both variants. Aside from that, the interior received some minor enhancements in the form of revised air-conditioning vents and a classic analog dash clock.

Safety was given a bump-up with ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) such as Attention Assist and Collision Prevention Assist.

Both variants rode on the Direct Control suspension with selective damping based on the road conditions. The suspension was also lowered by 15mm.

Completing the safety kit were eight airbags and the marque’s Pre-Safe system. Pre-Safe uses sensors to anticipate a collision and takes necessary measures to protect the vehicle occupants, all in a matter of seconds.

Lastly, setting the more premium E250 Avantgarde apart would be the exterior Sports Package, 18-inch wheels, Remote Bootlid Closing, and an electric panoramic sliding sunroof.

Introducing a New Mercedes-Benz E-Class Variant

A few months following the facelift, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia introduced the most powerful, non-AMG W212 E-Class in the country; enter the locally-assembled E400.

Under the hood saw a new twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6  labeled the M276 DE30AL. It delivered an even 333 bhp and a massive 480 Nm of torque. Sending all that punch to the rear wheels was once again the familiar 7G-Tronic Plus automatic transmission.

Being the flagship, non-AMG trim, the E400 wore the sportier AMG Sports package, 18-inch AMG wheels, larger front brakes, and a firmer sports suspension. Rear occupants were treated to a rear seat entertainment system in the form of two monitors affixed to the back of the front seat’s headrest.

A Diesel Hybrid E-Class

Come January 2015, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia once again raised the bar with the introduction of a new variant into the W212 E-Class family. The locally-assembled E300 BlueTEC Hybrid had the honor of being the first diesel hybrid to be commercially available in the country.

Duty exemptions for locally-assembled hybrids meant that the E300 BlueTEC Hybrid undercut the E200 in pricing to make it the most affordable W212 E-Class variant. Nonetheless, it wasn’t a barebones offering by any means. In fact, the comprehensive list of equipment for the E300 BlueTEC Hybrid was on par with the E400.

That means it wore the same AMG Sports package on the exterior as well as the same 18-inch AMG wheels.

Power comes from a 2.1-liter turbo-diesel and electric motor combination. The OM651 DE 22 LA inline-four diesel mill makes 201 bhp and 500 Nm of torque. This is complemented by the three-phase AC electric motor that delivers 27 bhp and 250 Nm of torque on its own. The motor is integrated between the engine and transmission, the latter being the usual 7G-Tronic automatic transmission.

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia was adamant that the E300 BlueTEC Hybrid sold here has been adapted to the local Euro 2M diesel. That means the engine loses the particulate filter and has a water separator fitted.

Being a diesel hybrid, the E300 BlueTEC Hybrid is very light on fuel. A challenge by motoring journalist Andrew Frankel saw him drive from Africa to the United Kingdom on a single tank of diesel, covering 1,968 km. While that was done with the optional larger fuel tank that wasn’t available in Malaysia, it’s still a very impressive feat by any means.

A compact lithium-ion battery stores the energy for the electric motor. It also powers the vehicle’s 12 V electrical system via a DC transformer. This keeps the car’s ancillaries powered when the engine shuts off at traffic lights.

A 2016 Mercedes-Benz E 250 Avantgarde sold for RM210,500 on CARSOME

Used Market Prices

It’s generally accepted that Mercedes-Benz machines tend to hold their value a lot better than some of its rivals from the continent. That said, you can find some great offers on the
Mercedes-Benz E-Class
 in Malaysia if you take the time to look around.

Browse some of the popular used car classifieds online and you’ll find that facelifted
E200 models
 from 2013 start around the RM100,000 mark. Now make sure you’re seated for this because the price climbs significantly towards the final year models. If you’re opting for one of these 2020-year models, prepare to fork out around RM250,000 or so.

As for the
E250
, the first-year facelift models begin a tad bit higher at approximately RM112,000 but eventually levels out the same as it touches the RM250,000 ceiling like its lower-trimmed sibling.

If you’re keen on experiencing a diesel hybrid, pricing for the
E300
 BlueTEC Hybrid unsurprisingly starts lower than its traditional petrol-powered siblings. You’ll easily find first-year units of the variant in the market around the RM80,000 mark.

Which One to Get?

Given the healthy amount of variants, you’ll definitely be spoilt for choice. For those looking to play it safe, the logical options would be the E200 or the E250. Petrol-powered, no complex hybrid system and generally well-equipped.

On the other end of the spectrum is the impressive E300 BlueTEC Hybrid. Mountains of torque, extremely fuel efficient and packing tons of equipment. The downside would be that some parties are still skeptical regarding diesels and older hybrids as the maintenance costs might catch them out should something major fail. However, it doesn’t have any weak points apart from the common problems shared with the platform.

The best bet would be the aforementioned safe variants such as the E200 and E250 though. Plenty to choose from and most speciality workshops will be able to care for them with ease.

Common problems

No car is perfect and that goes for the relatively hardy W212 E-Class as well. Having spoken to multiple workshops has led to a list of some of the common problems owners of a W212 might encounter and the estimated cost to rectify the problem.

Mr. Wai of Autoraco in Bandar Tun Razak shared some of his experience with the W212. The leading failure point according to him is the water pump. If you miss the warning light on the dashboard, the engine might overheat. Expect to spend around RM2,500 – RM3,500 for a new water pump and other components that may have been damaged with the resulting overheating.

Another common failure is the oxygen (O2) sensor. This’ll bring up a check engine light but isn’t a major problem by any means. That’s approximately RM700 for a new oxygen sensor though.

Even the mass airflow sensor isn’t exempt from defects. Unfortunately, only original spare parts work here and that will set you back a hefty RM3,000 or so.

The engine mounts in general not only serve to hold up the engine but also to dampen vibrations from reaching the chassis. It’s a common wear and tear item that will cost a minimum of RM1,500 to replace in the W212 E-Class.

Although the lithium-ion battery mostly powers the vehicle’s 12 V system, there’s still a regular auxiliary battery located in the boot. This will cost around RM320 to replace, depending on the brand. If it loses its ability to hold a charge over time, the auto start-stop function will not function properly.

Common to plenty of European vehicles is the failure of the wheel speed sensor. The W212 E-Class doesn’t escape this curse. The wheel speed sensor is a key component of the ABS and the electronic stability program. That’s about RM300 for each corner.

Conclusion

As always, take your time and don’t rush into the purchase. Ask plenty of questions, especially regarding the common problems highlighted above to gauge if the repairs have already been carried out. That would indicate a well-maintained unit as well.

Buy CARSOME Certified for Peace of Mind

Here at CARSOME, we believe in creating an end-to-end buying journey to eliminate the concerns common in a traditional used car buying experience.
CARSOME Certified
 is the new standard of buying pre-owned cars backed up by our
175-point inspection
 together with our
CARSOME Certified Refurbishment Process
. By creating a trusted used car ecosystem, CARSOME Certified guarantees trust, transparency, and choice.

Check out our CARSOME Certified Cars
here
.

Amarnath


Favor a Head-Turner? Buy a Used MINI Countryman for the Price of a Proton X50

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Favor a Head-Turner? Buy a Used MINI Countryman for the Price of...

By

Devan S

The success of the
MINI
brand is underpinned by their fun and nimble 3-door hatchback – the
MINI Cooper
, but for a long time, it was never for family buyers. Fast-forward to 2011, the
MINI Countryman
was the brand’s first proper family-sized crossover. Codenamed
R60
, the
MINI Countryman
 was available in two variants in Malaysia, the
MINI Cooper Countryman
, and the
MINI Cooper S Countryman
. Both run on a 1.6-liter engine, with the engine in the
Cooper S Countryman
being
turbocharged
. Both are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission (gearbox).

Brief Recap on Prices

MINI Countryman (R60)

Variant(s)

Engine Power Output

Price(s)

MINI Cooper Countryman

1.6-liter (120 HP, 160 Nm)

RM248,888

MINI Cooper S Countryman

1.6-liter turbocharged (184 HP, 240 Nm)

RM268,888

MINI Cooper S Countryman (features MINI ALL4)

1.6-liter turbocharged (184 HP, 240 Nm)

RM285,888

MINI Countryman (R60) Facelift

Variant(s)

Engine Power Output

Price(s)

MINI Cooper Countryman

1.6-liter (120 HP, 155 Nm)

RM198,888

MINI Cooper S Countryman

1.6-liter turbocharged (190 HP, 240 Nm)

RM243,888

MINI Countryman pre- and post-facelift exterior comparison

MINI Countryman pre- and post-facelift interior comparison

Quick Run-down on MINI Countryman Specs

Initially, the
MINI

Cooper S Countryman
 was offered as an all-wheel drive variant in Malaysia or in
MINI’s
 marketing terms –
MINI ALL4
system. A year later after its launch, the
Cooper S Countryman
 was introduced in a front-wheel drive variant. The
non-turbocharged

Cooper Countryman
 on the other hand, was also front-wheel drive.

The
MINI Countryman facelift
was launched in 2014, receiving subtle exterior changes such as a new dual-bar grille for the
Cooper Countryman
while the more expensive
Cooper S Countryman
received a new grille with a horizontal chrome strip across. The
Cooper S Countryman
 also received an “S” badge, denoting the
Cooper S
variant.

Moreover, the
Cooper S

Countryman
facelift received xenon headlights (same as before),
LED
Daytime Running Lights (DRLs)
, and
LED fog lights
 while the cheaper
Countryman
 got regular halogen bulbs with no DRLs. Furthermore, the
Cooper S Countryman
 retains the same 18-inch “Turbo Fan” rims as before while the
Cooper Countryman
 was given a new set of 17-inch triangle spoke rims.

Interior Features

If you prefer leather seats, your only option is the
Cooper S Countryman
 as the cheaper
Countryman
 got fabric seats. As standard, both variants get
push-start button
, a
multi-function steering wheel
,
cruise control
,
auto headlights
,
auto wipers
,
auto-dimming rear-view mirror,
 and an
all-new infotainment system
 known as
MINI Visual Boost
 with
a 6.5-inch LCD screen
 and
MINI Connected
 functionality that allows you to connect your phone. The speedometer and rev counter are also in dark gray (pre-facelift was in white). Besides that, the
Cooper Countryman
received an updated switchgear as well as improved cabin insulation.

MINI Countryman pre- and post-facelift infotainment system comparison

MINI Countryman pre- and post-facelift rev counter comparison

Safety Features

Safety wise, both variants received
six airbags
,
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
 with
traction control
,
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS),
 and
Hill Start Assist (HSA).

Here’s a detailed explanation of what these safety features mean:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
and
Traction Control System (TCS)
– help prevent the car from losing control and help the driver to regain control of the car. They also reduce the risk of a rollover (when the car overturns).

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
 – prevents the tires from locking up and skidding when sudden braking. It allows the driver to steer the car to safety.

Hill Start Assist

(HSA) –
prevents the car from rolling backwards, gives the driver several seconds to move their foot from the brake pedal to accelerator pedal when moving from a standstill on a slope.

Recap of MINI Countryman Used Car Prices

YEAR

MODEL

MILEAGE (~)

PRICE (~)

2013

MINI Cooper Countryman

55,384 KM

RM94,900

2015

MINI Cooper Countryman

65,939 KM

RM107,400

2019

MINI Cooper S Countryman

46,122 KM

RM198,900

A Fair Price to Pay

The price of a used
MINI Countryman
 in Malaysia varies depending on the year, variant, condition, and mileage of the car. At the time of writing this article, you can get a
2012 pre-facelift

MINI Cooper Countryman
 for as low as
RM66,000
 while a
2011 pre-facelift MINI Cooper S Countryman
 is as low as
RM72,800
.

On the other hand, a
2015 MINI
Cooper Countryman
 facelift
is going for sale in the used market for as low as
RM108,800
while a
2015 MINI
Cooper S Countryman
 facelift
 can be had for as low as
RM118,800
. It’s clear that the
MINI Cooper S Countryman
 holds its resale value much better so this is something to consider when surveying for a
Countryman
.

A fair price to pay would be between
RM75,000
to
RM95,000
for a pre-facelift
MINI Countryman
 while a post-facelift
MINI Countryman
 would be between
RM90,000
 to
RM125,000
.

With
CARSOME Certified Lab
 being Southeast Asia’s largest car refurbishment facility with state-of-the-art equipment, CARSOME promises to deliver quality-assured cars that have safety beyond standards, complete comfort, and refurbished aesthetics.

From our website
, you can get a
2013 MINI Cooper Countryman
 for
RM94,900
 with a mileage of 55,284 KM. With a 10-percent down payment, you’re looking to pay an estimated sum of
RM1,040

per

month
 for nine years.

Which MINI Countryman Model to Buy?

We recommend getting the
MINI Cooper S Countryman
, whether it is the pre- or post-facelift model as the
Cooper S Countryman
 gets you the
turbocharged engine
. With more than 180 horsepowers, the car is eager to rev up to speed allowing for easy overtaking and spirited driving whenever you want. The
Cooper S Countryman
 also gets you leather seats and sportier 18-inch “Turbo Fan” rims.

If your budget fits, the post-facelift
MINI Cooper S Countryman
is a better option as
MINI
 would usually have addressed some of the complaints by the pre-facelift owners.

Pros and Cons of a MINI Countryman

Pros

Cons

Excellent handling
 compared to other competitors in its segment. The MINI Countryman can handle twisty roads at high speeds while being very stable.

Ride quality is not as comfortable.

Steering is sharp and accurate
, making the car agile for a crossover.

Average sound insulation, outside noise can enter into the cabin at high speeds.

Has one of the highest power outputs
 in its segment at the time, making the car very quick.

Some materials feel cheap to the touch (hard plastics).

Fuel efficient
 for its size.

Not the most practical in its segment.

How Much to Maintain?

Maintenance

Costs (~)

Road Tax

RM90 (1.6-liter)

Tires/pc (~)

RM340 – RM480

Minor service (Engine oil and oil filter) [~]

RM450

Transmission fluid (gearbox oil) [~]

RM900

Brake fluid

RM220

Coolant

RM300

Engine air filter

RM100

Cabin air filter

RM80

Drive belts

RM400

Spark plugs/set

RM400

Oxygen sensor

RM600

Battery

RM1,050

Timing chain

RM2,200

Hydrogen carbon cleaning (to clean up carbon deposits in the engine)

RM400

As preventative maintenance, it is recommended to put your turbocharged
Cooper S Countryman
 through a carbon cleaning service in order to keep the engine clean of carbon deposits (soot), especially when the mileage is near the 100,000-kilometer mark.

In fact, a good rule of thumb is to replace all the fluids in a used car after collection as fluids deteriorate overtime. Nonetheless, if your budget doesn’t allow it, then doing a minor service when you get the car is good enough.

However, with
CARSOME Certified Lab
 being Southeast Asia’s largest car refurbishment facility, CARSOME promises to deliver quality-assured refurbished cars. As standard practice, we’ll replace the lubricant oil during and service the air conditioning during refurbishment.

Check out how CARSOME takes the worry out of buying pre-owned cars
here
.

What Are the Common Problems?

Apart from regular service and maintenance of the engine and the gearbox (which does keep the car problem-free) there are a few common problems with the
MINI Countryman
 that you should be wary of.

Symptom(s)

Part(s)

Costs (~)

Overheating / coolant leak

Thermostat

RM550

Overheating / coolant leak

Water pump

RM1,100

Loss of air-conditioner gas / air-conditioner is not cold

Air-conditioner evaporator

RM2,200 (original)

Windscreen washer failure

Windscreen washer pump

RM200

Leaks at head gasket / oil filter gasket / oil sump gasket

Engine leak

RM1,600 (all inclusive)

The MINI Countryman Is One of the Best Handling SUV

Although the
MINI Countryman
 is an SUV, it still retains a lot of what the
MINI
 brand is well-known for – it’s a fun and nimble car to drive, eager to rev you up to high speeds and still retains its go-kart like personality.

Buy CARSOME Certified for Peace of Mind

Here at CARSOME, we believe in creating an end-to-end buying journey to eliminate the concerns of a traditional used car buying experience.
CARSOME Certified
 is the new standard of buying pre-owned cars backed up by our
175-Point inspection
 together with our
CARSOME Certified Refurbishment Process
. By creating a trusted used car ecosystem, CARSOME Certified guarantees trust, transparency and choice.

Check out our CARSOME Certified MINI Countryman
here
.

Check out our wide selection of CARSOME Certified SUVs
here
.

Check out our CARSOME Certified Cars
here
.

Devan S
Devan believes written content is here to stay despite our depleting attention span and the rise of short videos. He loves four and two-wheeled vehicles, and movies of all makes and models.


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MINI Cooper: Is the MINI Right for You? (Used Buying Guide)

By

Devan S

Everyone knows the
MINI Cooper
 as a cute hatchback, but it’s officially known as the
MINI 3-Door
– either way, anyone will be able to recognize a
MINI 3-Door
hatch

from afar thanks to its iconic, quirky
MINI
 design.

It is only a
MINI
that can pull off the
MINI
look. From
Mr. Bean
’s Citron Green 1977 Leyland MINI with a matte black bonnet to the red, white, and blue
MINI 3-Door
 in the 2003 “
The Italian Job
” movie, it’s clear that the
MINI 3-Door
hatch is an icon in the automotive industry. In 1994, the
BMW Group
 acquired the
Rover Group
 (which owned the iconic Mini) and in less than four years,
BMW
unveiled a
MINI
hatchback concept that was bigger, more mature, and ultimately more powerful.

In 2014, in its third generation, the
MINI Hatch
 was released in Malaysia, codenamed
F56
(3-door) and
F55
(5-door – first ever in a
MINI Hatch
). The
MINI Hatch
was available in four variants, the
MINI Cooper
, the
MINI Cooper Chilli Pack
, the
MINI Cooper S
, and the
MINI Cooper S Wired Pack
. Four years later, the facelift was launched with a new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (gearbox). In this article we’ll be focusing on the
pre-facelift used

MINI 3-Door (F56)
.

Brief Recap on Prices

Pre-Facelift

MINI 3-Door (F56)

Variant(s)

Engine Power Output

Price(s)

MINI
Cooper

1.5-liter three-cylinder MINI TwinPower Turbo
(136 HP, 220 Nm)

RM178,888

MINI
Cooper (Chilli Pack)

1.5-liter three-cylinder MINI TwinPower Turbo
(136 HP, 220 Nm)

RM198,888

MINI
Cooper S

2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged

(192 HP, 280 Nm)

RM228,888

MINI
Cooper S (Wired Pack)

2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged

(192 HP, 280 Nm)

RM248,888

Quick Run-down on the MINI Cooper and Cooper S Specs

The
MINI Cooper
is powered by a
1.5-liter three-cylinder MINI TwinPower Turbo
engine (codenamed
B38
 – the same engine found in the
F30
BMW 318i
). The power is rated at
136

horsepower
 with
220 Nm
of torque. The more powerful
MINI Cooper S
is powered by a
2.0-liter four-cylinder TwinPower Turbo
(codenamed
B48
 – the same engine found in the
F30
BMW 320i
and
330e
). This 2.0-liter turbo engine has
192 horsepower
 with
280 Nm
 of torque, which is a lot for a small hatchback. Both are paired to a
six-speed automatic transmission
 and the more powerful
Cooper S
features
Sports Auto
 mode with
Launch Control function
.

Exterior Features

The base
MINI Cooper
comes with halogen reflector headlights while the rest of the variants come with
LED
Daytime Running Lights (DRLs)
,
LED headlights
, and
LED fog lights
 as standard. Furthermore, the
MINI Cooper
and
MINI Cooper Chilli Pack
get
16-inch

loop spoke silver
design rims while the more expensive
Cooper S
and
Cooper S Wired Pack
get
17-inch tentacle spoke silver
 design rims. Both the
MINI Cooper
and
Cooper S
 get different grilles and exhaust tips, the
Cooper S
features
more aggressive styling
 such as a small
hood scoop
 and
two front vents
. It also comes with
twin-tailpipes
.

Interior Features

Interior-wise, the base
MINI Cooper
 is the only variant that comes with fabric seats while the rest come with leather upholstery. The base variant also gets a
chrome line trim
,
manual air-conditioner
,
MINI Radio Basis with Bluetooth connectivity
, and
sports leather steering wheel
.

The rest of the variants get
sports leather seats
,
dual-zone climate control
,
MINI Radio Visual Boost
 with a
6.5-inch TFT screen
(while the
Cooper S
features a larger
8.8-inch LCD screen
 with
navigation
)

controlled by a scroll wheel on the center console similar to BMW’s iDrive. The
MINI Cooper S
 also
features a dark gray headliner
 and a
John Cooper Works (JCW) steering wheel
 while the
Cooper S Wired Pack
 features a center armrest and a
12-speaker Harmon Kardon HiFi
sound system.

As standard, all variants feature
three driving modes
 – GREEN, MID and SPORT mode. All variants also feature an
LED ring
 in the center-dash located at the top of the
MINI Radio Visual Boost
, which changes colors based on the driving modes and other car’s systems such as media volume change and climate control change.

Safety Features

Safety-wise, all variants have
four airbags
,
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
 with
Traction Control System, (TCS),
 and
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
.

Here’s a detailed explanation of what these safety features mean:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
and
Traction Control System (TCS)
– Help prevent the car from losing control and help the driver regain control of the car. They also reduce the risk of a rollover (when the car overturns).

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
 – Prevents the tires from locking up and skidding when sudden braking. It allows the driver to steer the car to safety.

Price Range for a Used MINI Cooper and Cooper S

The price of a used
MINI 3-Door (F56)
 varies depending on the year, variant, condition, and mileage of the car. At the time of writing this article, the prices are as follow:

Pre-Facelift

MINI 3-Door (F56)

Variant(s)

Price Range (~)

MINI
Cooper

RM97,000 – RM142,000

MINI
Cooper (Chilli Pack)

RM113,xxx

MINI
Cooper S

RM120,000 – RM150,000

MINI
Cooper S (Wired Pack)

RM140,xxx

Which MINI 3-Door (F56) Model to Buy?

We recommend getting the pre-facelift used
MINI Cooper S
 as it features a more powerful
2.0-liter turbocharged engine
,
more

aggressive styling
,
sportier 17-inch rims
, and a modern-day
8.8-inch LCD infotainment screen
.

Pros and Cons of a Used MINI 3-Door (F56)

Pros

Cons

Excellent handling
 – capable of handling twisty roads at high speed while being very stable.

Ride quality is considered average, deeper undulations still feel harsh.

Steering is sharp and accurate
, making the car be very agile.

Has average sound insulation, outside noise can enter the cabin at high speeds.

Well-balanced suspension
, making it a fun-loving car to drive while being comfortable.

Some materials feel cheap to the touch (hard plastics).

Fuel efficient
.

One of the least practical in its segment.

How Much to Maintain?

Maintenance

Costs (~)

Road Tax

RM90 (1.5-liter)

RM379 (2.0-liter)

Minor service (Engine oil and oil filter)

RM500

Transmission fluid (gearbox oil and filter)

RM900

Brake fluid

RM250

Coolant

RM350

Engine air filter

RM100

Cabin air filter

RM100

Hydrogen carbon cleaning (remove carbon deposits from the engine)

RM400

As preventative maintenance, it is recommended to put your used
MINI Cooper or Cooper S
through a carbon cleaning service in order to keep the engine clean from black stains (soot), especially when the mileage is near the 100,000-kilometer mark.

In fact, a good rule of thumb is to replace all the fluids in a used car after collection as fluids deteriorate over time. Nonetheless, if your budget doesn’t allow it then doing a minor service when you get the car is good enough.

However, with
CARSOME Certified Lab
 being Southeast Asia’s largest car refurbishment facility, CARSOME promises to deliver quality-assured cars with a refurbishment process that exceeds international standards.

Check out how CARSOME takes the worry out of buying pre-owned cars
here
.

What Are the Common Problems?

Mechanically, there are no common problems here. Regular service and maintenance will keep the car problem-free. Nevertheless, there have been some reports regarding the
turbo failures
 with the
1.5-liter engine (B38)
. Moreover, the engine mounting, gearbox mounting, and lower support mounting are parts that require attention because these parts wear out faster than usual mountings. The ignition coils and high-pressure fuel pump are also parts that need to be inspected.

Buying a MINI Cooper Is a Lifestyle Statement

The third-generation
MINI 3-Door (F56)
is definitely a significant upgrade over the first and second generations. The
BMW Group
 did an amazing job with the
F56 MINI Cooper

/ Cooper S
by sharing the same engines across their BMW lineup, this inevitably gave the
3-Door hatchback
 more power which made sense because the third-generation (current generation)
MINI 3-Door
 is in every way larger and heavier than the predecessors it replaced.

As a stylish, quirky hatchback with impressive power, the MINI is a fun, compact vehicle that is sure to turn heads wherever you take it. A person who buys a
MINI
is a person with exquisite taste.

Buy CARSOME Certified for Peace of Mind

Here at CARSOME, we believe in creating an end-to-end buying journey to eliminate the concerns of the traditional used car buying experience.
CARSOME Certified
 is the new standard of buying pre-owned cars backed up by our
175-Point inspection
 together with our
CARSOME Certified Refurbishment Process
. By creating a trusted used car ecosystem, CARSOME Certified guarantees trust, transparency, and choice.

Check out our CARSOME Certified MINI
here
.

Check out our wide selection of CARSOME Certified hatchbacks
here
.

Check out our CARSOME Certified Cars
here
.


The Plush Urban Truck Many Forgot: Used Nissan Navara for the Price of a New Honda City

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The Plush Urban Truck Many Forgot: Used Nissan Navara for the Price...

By

Devan S

The
Nissan Navara
(also known as
NP300 Navara
)

was launched back in 2015 before it was given a facelift in 2021. It was and still is the only pickup truck that favors an SUV-style (sport utility vehicle) rear multi-link suspension (the rear legs of a vehicle). While pickup trucks such as the
Ford Ranger
 and
Toyota Hilux
 are known to be bumpier on the road compared to a sedan, by using the same rear suspension found in SUVs like the
Mazda CX-5
 or
Honda CR-V
, the ride in the Nissan Navara is more comfortable making longer journeys less nauseous.

Here is a buying guide for used
Nissan Navaras
.

Pros and Cons of the Nissan Navara

PROS

CONS

More stable ride due to its SUV rear suspension making journeys less nauseous ✔

Despite its SUV rear suspension, it’s still bumpy due to its taller ride height compared to an SUV

Service and maintenance costs not as high as its competitors ✔

Due to its SUV rear suspension, the payload capacity is lower than its competitors

2.5-liter turbodiesel engine has more than enough power to move the truck, getting up to speed with ease ✔

Taller drivers may not find a comfortable driving position as the steering wheel doesn’t adjust high enough

Goes over potholes and uneven roads with ease ✔

Sound insulation is average for its class, especially the whining sound from the engine

A 2021 Nissan Navara Pro-4X sold for RM138,900 on CARSOME

Here’s a Brief Recap on the Prices

Pre-facelift Nissan Navara:

Nissan Navara Single Cab (Manual):
RM79,000

Nissan Navara Double Cab E (Manual):
RM89,800

Nissan Navara Double Cab SE (Manual):
RM97,800

Nissan Navara Double Cab SE (Automatic):
RM102,800

Nissan Navara Double Cab V (Automatic):
RM109,800

Nissan Navara Double Cab VL (Automatic):
RM120,800

Post-facelift Nissan Navara:

Nissan Navara Single Cab (Manual):
RM91,900

Nissan Navara Double Cab SE (Manual):
RM110,900

Nissan Navara Double Cab SE (Automatic):
RM116,900

Nissan Navara Double Cab V (Automatic):
RM125,500

Nissan Navara Double Cab VL (Automatic):
RM137,900

Nissan Navara Double Cab Pro-4X (Automatic):
RM142,200

Quick Rundown on the Nissan Navara Specs

Powertrain:
2.5-liter turbodiesel engine rated at
190 HP
 and
450 Nm
 (only for VL and Pro-4X variant) while the rest gets a lower power output at
163 HP
 and
403

Nm
.

Features:
 The V variant and above gets more features such as keyless entry, push-button start, a 5-inch display, Bluetooth, six speakers, a multifunction steering wheel and a reverse camera. The VL gets all the bells and whistles such as LED headlights with LED daytime running lights so other road users notice your presence on the road, 18-inch dual-tone rims, roof rails that provide attachment points to mount items on top of the vehicle, powered-adjustable driver’s seat, and leather seats.

Payload capacity:
 880 to 1112 KG depending on the variant (great for hauling heavy and big items such as furniture).

Safety Features:
 Two airbags on the SE variants and six airbags on the V, VL, and Pro-4X variants (it was updated to seven in 2018 but the facelift in 2021 only received six).

Other safety features include
 –  Electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist, which prevents tires from locking up and skidding. Moreover, it gets vehicle dynamic control, traction control, and brake-based active brake limited slip, which stabilizes the car when it loses control. Besides that, the
Nissan Navara
 gets hill start assist, which prevents the car that’s stopped on a hill from rolling backward when the driver accidentally lifts off the brakes, and finally hill descent control which allows the driver to go downhill without the driver’s input (very useful when going off-road as you can leave it up to the system to bring you down safely).

Facelifted Features:
 The facelifted
Nissan Navara
gets additional modern-day touches such as an 8-inch touchscreen display with
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
, auto wipers when it detects rain and
Advanced Drive-Assistance System (ADAS)
 such as pre-collision warning, pre-collision braking and front departure alert.

Recap of Nissan Navara Used Prices

Here are a few examples of used
Nissan Navaras

available on Carsome:

YEAR

MODEL

MILEAGE (~)

PRICE (~)

2015

Nissan Navara V

60,346 KM

RM77,900

2017

Nissan Navara V

91,754 KM

RM80,900

2018

Nissan Navara VL

98,678 KM

RM102,900

2021

Nissan Navara Pro-4X

20,671 KM

RM138,900

A 2018 Nissan Navara VL sold for RM102,900 on CARSOME

A Fair Price to Pay

From our website
, the price for a used
Nissan Navara
ranges from
RM59,000
to
RM139,000
 depending on the year, variant, condition, and mileage of the car. A fair price to pay would be around
RM102,900
, that can get you a
2018 Nissan Navara VL
with a mileage of 98,678 KM. With a 10 percent down payment, the estimated monthly installment costs
RM1,128 per month
.

If you want to spend less than
RM1,000

per month,
 then take a look at the
2015 Nissan Navara V
for
RM77,900
with a mileage of 60,346 KM. With similar loan calculations, you’re looking to pay an estimated amount of
RM854 per month
.

On the other hand, if you are looking to get the latest features such as
Apple CarPlay
,
Android

Auto and Advanced Drive-Assistance System (ADAS)
 then take a look at the
2021 Nissan Navara Pro-4X
priced at
RM138,900
 with a mileage of 20,671 KM. You’re looking to pay an estimated amount of
RM1,522 per month
 after factoring in a 10 percent down payment.

Which Variant to Buy?

We recommend getting the used
2018 Nissan Navara VL
as it gets a higher power output for moving larger items with ease, LED headlights for clearer vision during the night, especially in off-road conditions, powered-adjustable leather seats for convenience, and most importantly seven airbags for safety.

What Are the Common Problems?

The
Nissan Navara
nearly
doubled in sales
 in May 2021, exceeding pre-pandemic numbers. However, great sales numbers do not translate to zero problems with the
Navara
.

Some owners have reported oil leaks coming from the engine and transmission (gearbox) while others reported magnetic pulley failure (which gives power to the air-conditioner). Nevertheless, there are no catastrophic engine or transmission failures, and since these problems are not that common, you need not worry about them too much

A regular service and maintenance will keep the car problem-free. Nissan recommends
preventative maintenance
 by replacing the engine oil and oil filter every 10,000 kilometers or every six months (whichever comes first).

How Much to Maintain?

Road Tax

RM830.40

Tires/pc (~)

RM500 – RM970

Minor service (Engine oil and oil filter) [~]

RM200 – RM250

The Perfect Pickup Truck but Not for the Wild

If you carry heavy items on a daily basis or want to go off-road all the time without any compromises, then a used
Nissan Navara
isn’t for you. However, if you’re looking for a lifestyle pickup truck that is comfortable on the road, capable of carrying heavy items, going off-road on occasion and is reliable, then the
Nissan Navara
 is for you. It is the perfect pickup-truck for the city.

Buy CARSOME Certified for Peace of Mind

Here at Carsome, we believe in creating an end-to-end buying journey to eliminate the concerns of a traditional used car buying experience.
CARSOME Certified
 is the new standard of buying pre-owned cars backed up by our
175-point Inspection
 together with our
CARSOME Certified Refurbishment Process
. By creating a trusted used car ecosystem, CARSOME Certified guarantees trust, transparency, and choice.

Check out our CARSOME Certified Nissan Navara
here
.

Check out our CARSOME Certified Cars
here
.


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Nissan Serena S-hybrid C26: Malaysia’s De Facto Large MPV (Used Buying Guide)

By

Amarnath

Think large MPV in Malaysia and the default selection always falls back onto the
Nissan Serena
. While the evergreen model hasn’t always had much in the way of competition locally, that doesn’t mean it’s undeserving of its de facto position as the best large
MPV
 in the country.

As demand grew for larger capacity vehicles, the Serena offered big space for relatively small money. It was well-designed, reliable, and looked handsome as well. Simply put, it ticked all the boxes for a large MPV.

The Serena C26 is no different, further improving on the solid foundation set by its predecessor with incremental enhancements in key areas. It grew more spacious and gained better creature comforts yet remained decently sized for urban driving.

The Serena S-Hybrid C26 Range

Nissan
 launched the
Serena
 C26 here in 2013 as a fully imported (CBU) model from Japan. The sole Serena S-Hybrid Highway Star variant listed for RM149,500.

It was proudly declared as the first hybrid MPV in the country though many would take that claim with a tablespoon of salt.

The reasoning behind that spoonful of salt was the loose definition of the “hybrid” term. Power came from an MR20DD 2.0-liter engine that delivered 147 PS and 210 Nm to the front wheels via a Jatco XTronic CVT.

Nissan slapped on that S-Hybrid (‘S’ for Smart) emblem due to the 1.8kW ECO (Energy Control Motor) motor that pulled double duty as an alternator to recharge the MPV’s electricals during deceleration and an engine starter motor.

The use of the term hybrid here does appear to be a bit of a stretch as the ECO motor didn’t provide any drive to the wheels. It could however deliver a momentary “torque assist function” with a 50 Nm of torque boost to the crankshaft for about 1 second when the Serena moves from a standstill.

Bells and whistles included keyless entry and start, auto headlights, climate control, and second/third-row air vents.

The following year, Nissan introduced the facelifted Serena S-Hybrid that was now locally assembled (CKD). For all intents and purposes, it was essentially identical save for a redesigned front end with LED headlights and taillights.

There was also a new second variant, the S-Hybrid Highway Star Premium. All it carried a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, 10.1-inch roof-mounted LCD screen, and combination leather seats.

The real party piece was the lower pricing courtesy of CKD incentives for hybrids. The Highway Star started at RM138,800 while the Highway Star Premium remained at RM149,500.

Read More:
Used Nissan Navara Buying Guide

Used Market Prices For The Serena C26

The Serena’s position as the undisputed go-to large
MPV
 also translates into holding its resale value in the used market.

Expect pricing for the CBU pre-facelift models to range from RM60k to RM 70k.

The facelifted, locally assembled models were sold from 2014 to 2018 and range between RM62k and RM100k.

Which Variant Should I Buy?

From a mechanical standpoint, there are no differences between the pre-facelift and facelifted variants. Therefore, the weight of your decision lays firmly on the cosmetic aspect as well as the modicum of additional features.

Aesthetically, the facelift does carry a more modern design while the pre-facelift has begun to look a little dated. Furthermore, if you’re always ferrying around kids, the screens in the Highway Star Premium would be a worthy investment to keep the little ones entertained on the road.

However, if your main concern is the seating capacity, the pre-facelift models do start significantly lower and will work just as well.

Maintenance Costs & Common Problems

Some of the basic running and ownership costs for the Serena C26 are listed in the table below:

Variant

2.0 Highway Star

2.0 Highway Star Premium

Road Tax

RM380

RM380

Tire Size

195/65R15

195/60R16

Tire Price (per piece)

RM235 (estimated)

RM250 (estimated)

Oil change

RM400

RM400

CVT lubricant (oil + filter)

RM620

RM620

Many potential owners might be turned off by the hybrid part of its name with the fear of “hybrid battery replacement” burning a hole in the wallet. As we’ve pointed out earlier, the Serena isn’t really a hybrid. Hence, there’s no hybrid battery to replace.

Instead, there are two regular 12V
batteries
; a main one that drives the ECO motor and a secondary unit that runs the usual electrical accessories like the wipers and radio.

Owners should note that although both are regular 12V units, they are of the Enhanced Flooded Battery (EFB) type that’s more capable of recovering charges faster in conjunction with the cyclic stresses from the stop-start system.

EFB batteries are pricier than regular lead acid 12V batteries but are closer to a lead acid unit’s pricing.

EFB battery type

Voltage / Capacity

Cost (RM)

Main – S95

12V / 64Ah

450 – 700

Sub – M42

12V / 27Ah

250 – 350

On the issue of common problems, Noel Chong from JTech Autoserve, an independent specialist workshop for Nissans, shared with us that those are rare and if it occurs, can be traced to poor maintenance habits.

He tells us the Serena C26 is extremely reliable but like any vehicle, timely and proper maintenance is key to that dependability.

The first is to always use engine oil with the right viscosity as recommended by Nissan. For the Serena C26, that’s fully-synthetic (0W-20) lubricant. The wrong viscosity can lead to increased engine wear and carbon build-up on the valves.

Being a direct-injected engine, the MR20DD is prone to increased build-up of carbon deposits on the intake valves. Noel suggests walnut blasting periodically to get rid of the residue. Expect to shell out in the region of RM500 for the treatment.

One factor of proper maintenance Noel doesn’t recommend sticking to would be the service interval for the CVT-oil. Nissan suggests it be replaced every 80,000 km. He suggests halving the interval to 40,000 km to keep the CVT running smoothly for years to come.

Additionally, the Serena’s CVT has a specific precise leveling procedure to operate efficiently and specialists such as JTech Autoserv possess the tools and know-how to carry out the job.

One thing to always keep an eye on would be the ECO motor belt and pulley assembly. It’s integral to the engine’s operation. Wear in the belt or pulleys can lead to problems and pricier repair work if left unchecked. Noel recommends having the system inspected frequently.

One of the common problems that pop up often would be unusual knocking noises from the underbody. The usual culprit would be worn subframe bushings. JTech Autoserv has more durable, upgraded polyurethane units that last longer but will install the standard items if the customer prefers that.

Constant use of the power-sliding doors lead to issues and in the case of the Serena, it can be traced to a jammed actuator that’s a cheap and easy fix.

Read More:
Best Family Cars in Malaysia

Part

Symptom

Cost (RM)

Front lower arms

Increased road shock / freeplay

1,200 (OEM)

Rear subframe mounts

Increased vibration / tramlining

850 (OEM)

Steering rack

Knocking sound / freeplay in steering

1,500 (original)

Radiator fan motor

Overheating when stationary / AC loses cooling

300 (OEM) or 500 (original)

ECO motor system

Worn drive/fan belt and pulley

650

Sliding door

Jammed release actuator

200

Sliding door

ECU module failure

1,000

Conclusion

While a lack of direct competitors has made the Serena C26’s rise to the top of the large MPV food chain an easy one, it’s a punch below the belt to say it wouldn’t have done so on merit.

Spacious, practical, and easy on the eyes, the Serena C26 does everything expected of a large MPV with aplomb.

Compared to 7-seater
SUVs
, an MPV is a much more sensible choice as it makes ingress and egress alone much easier. Its relatively compact size doesn’t make it intimidating to pilot as well.

To sum it up, there’s little wrong with the Serena C26 and if you’re in the market for a used, large MPV, it should very well be the first choice on your shortlist. It might even be the only choice.

If you’re in the market for a pre-owned
Nissan Serena
 or similar family car, check out
CARSOME
 today.

Amarnath


Buying Your First Car? Here Are the Best Cars for First Time Drivers

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Buying Your First Car? Here Are the Best Cars for First Time...

By

Devan S

Buying a new car is always an exciting experience, even more so for new drivers. However, choosing the best car for first-time drivers can be a daunting task with so many cars available in the market. You’d have to consider your needs such as space, comfort, fuel economy, ease of maintenance, ride quality, and the list goes on. And with limited time to survey and test drive suitable cars, you could have a long buying process.

Fortunately, there are numerous resources to help you narrow down the right car. To help you decide, we’ve considered the price, practicality, and fuel economy of some of the most popular cars in Malaysia to come up with a list of the best first cars you can
buy in Malaysia
.

Economical City Hatchback – Perodua Axia

The
Perodua Axia
 is among the most affordable new cars you can buy in Malaysia. It’s great for drivers looking for a budget-friendly, compact, city car that’s fuel-efficient and affordable to maintain. Powered by a 1.0L engine across the lineup, its price starts at RM23,367 for the base manual variant up to RM41,427 for the range-topping automatic AV variant. This small, five-door hatchback is big on practicality and economy. With a fuel efficiency of up to 22.5 km/L and a low price, the Axia is the best first car for budget-conscious first-time drivers, especially students and young adults.

Some notable features in this car are an anti-snatch hook to hold valuables such as a handbag and a key reminder so drivers don’t leave their key in the ignition. The Axia even has Perodua’s A.S.A. 2.0 safety suite, though only on the range-topping AV model.

Best Economical Sedan – Perodua Bezza

For those who want the fuel economy of the Axia but with more space, the
Perodua Bezza
 is a good alternative. It’s just as economical to drive and maintain as the Axia, but is a more practical car overall. Plus, It’s available in two variants: a fuel-efficient 1.0L engine and a more powerful 1.3L engine. Its price starts at RM33,456 for a new 1.0L manual G variant up to RM48,356 for the top-of-the-range 1.3L automatic AV variant.

Like its sibling, the Bezza has impressive practicality. It has similar fuel consumption numbers as the Axia, multiple storage compartments throughout the cabin, and a massive 508-liter boot – the largest in its class. On the highest-spec 1.3 AV, the Bezza even has Perodua’s A.S.A. 2.0.

Great Value Family Sedan – Proton Saga

As Malaysia’s first national car, the
Proton Saga
 has gone through many updates and remains one of the best sedan cars for first-time drivers. Its large boot space, good NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) dampening, ease of maintenance, and ride quality makes the Saga a sound choice for drivers who are looking for a spacious car that they can drive for years. It’s robust enough to carry you through different life stages, such as when you start a family.

The Saga is among the most affordable sedans you can buy. It starts at RM32,800 for a new 1.3L manual transmission Standard variant and tops out at RM42,800 for the R3 Limited Edition. Being a sedan, the Saga has a decent 420-liter boot that can fit multiple luggage bags – suitable for families. As a budget car, the Saga is also affordable to maintain. Compared to other cars in its price range, it has better handling and ride quality. Thanks to Proton’s ride and handling tuning, the Saga is suitable for drivers who do a fair bit of long-distance driving on highways and winding backroads.

Best Value International Car –
Honda City

The
Honda City
 is a great value-for-money non-local sedan. It’s one of the best first cars for first-time drivers who have a bigger budget. With its higher price tag, it’s also equipped with more features, better NVH dampening, and more power than the other cars on this list making it a great car for drivers who want a more refined vehicle. It’s powered by a 1.5L engine mated to an automatic CVT (continuously variable transmission). Prices for new units range from RM73,851.27 for the base 1.5L S variant up to RM105,610.45 for the 1.5L RS hybrid variant.

Compared to the previous cars mentioned above, the City is bigger overall. This means the City has a roomier cabin that’s more comfortable especially on long drives. Additionally, it has a boot space of 519 liters which is the biggest on this list. Although it’s the largest car here, it has good fuel consumption at 18.5 km/L for the regular petrol variant and 27.8 km/L for the hybrid variant.

Its extensive list of features includes rear air conditioning vents, 60:40 foldable rear seats, ECON driving mode, and Hill Start Assist (HSA) across the range. The hybrid RS variant includes additional safety features in the Honda SENSING suite of technologies and Honda CONNECT. Honda CONNECT allows owners to connect their car to their smartphone and monitor its location, car diagnostics status, and remotely start or stop the engine, among other things.

Overall Best First Car – Perodua Myvi

The
Perodua Myvi
 is Malaysia’s top-selling car for good reason. It’s stylish, practical, and equipped with loads of safety features. These also make it one of the best first cars in Malaysia. The Myvi is a great car for new drivers as it’s compact, making it easy to maneuver around town. That being said, its efficient design allows for a roomy cabin. If you’re looking for a stylish first car that you’ll be comfortable in for years, the Myvi is it.

A brand new Myvi starts at RM41,292 for the base 1.3L engine manual transmission G variant and RM52,697 for the top of the range 1.5L engine automatic AV range. The Myvi is one of the best cars for first-time drivers as it’s reliable, spacious, fuel-efficient, and affordable to maintain. Even if you plan to upgrade the Myvi to a bigger car after a few years, you could get a good price on it as Myvis tend to hold their value quite well.

All variants have the essential safety features you’d expect from a modern car but the top variants come with Perodua’s Advanced Safety Assist (A.S.A. 2.0) which includes pre-collision warning, pre-collision braking, front departure alert, and pedal misoperation control.

Tips for Buying Your First Car

Buying a car involves numerous steps from researching, securing a car loan, to test driving the car. With all the steps required and factors to consider, it can be challenging and time-consuming to purchase the right car. That’s why we’ve compiled some tips to help you buy your first car.

Consider your needs.
 You first need to determine if you really need a car and what you will need it for. Do you need a budget-friendly car for your daily commute? Or do you frequently drive long distances? Do consider looking at used cars as they are often significantly cheaper than brand new models, while still being reliable.

Do your research.
 Once you have an idea of the type of car you need, you can look at online car blogs, car-selling platforms, or even ask your circle for advice. When considering the best car for first-time drivers, look at what the car offers, ease of maintenance, and safety. If you’re looking at a second-hand car, don’t be afraid to ask questions about it such as its service history, if it’s been in an accident, and so on.

Consider your budget and financing options.
 As a new driver, your budget is often limited. Therefore, make sure you can afford a car before deciding on it. Besides the price of the car, you’ll also need to factor in the cost of insurance and road tax, as well as the ongoing maintenance cost of the car. Shop around for auto financing options from reputable providers that give good rates. You can even check out
CARSOME Capital
; CARSOME’s auto financing product that offers competitive rates and an easy application process.

Inspect and test drive the car.
 Before deciding on the right car, be sure to thoroughly inspect it and take it for a test drive. It’s best to bring along a friend or family member you trust to help you look out for issues with the car and help you decide. Inspect the car’s exterior for signs of damage or repainting, and do a thorough check of the interior as well. Turn the car on and pay attention to its sound and if it produces any odd smell. Odd sounds and smells from the engine could mean there are issues with the parts. Lastly, take the car for a test drive and pay attention to how it drives and sounds. Make sure that all components are working and that no warning lights come on.

Read:
Why Did Your Car Loan Get Rejected & How to Buy Your First Car

There you have it, we hope this list of best cars for first-time drivers can help you decide on the right car. No matter what car you choose, pay attention to your needs and budget, and you’ll surely be happy with your decision.

If you’re looking for cars with excellent value, do check out CARSOME. All our cars go through our 175-point professional inspection to ensure they are free from any major accident and flood damage. Plus, there are no hidden fees when you
buy from us
; the price you see on our website is the actual, fixed price.

With that, we would like to wish you good luck with finding your first car!


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Buying A Car
Before You Buy a Used Perodua Myvi, Check These 5 Things

By

Devan S

The
Perodua Myvi
(dubbed as ‘King’) does not need any introduction here in Malaysia. It was the
best-selling car in Malaysia for eight consecutive years
 in a sedan-dominated market since the first generation
 Myvi
 was launched. By the year
2017
, the
Perodua Myvi
 sold over
one million
 units and by
2019
, it was crowned again (not literally)
the nation’s best-selling car
 – this is no different
in 2021 despite the COVID-19 pandemic
.

The first generation
Perodua

Myvi
 (M300) made a debut in
2005
, followed by the second generation (M600) in
2011
 and the third generation (M800) in
2018
, which is the
current generation

Myvi
 on sale. Each generation went through a facelift, so this is something to consider when surveying for a used
Perodua Myvi
.

Check out the evolution of our nation’s best-selling car
here
.

Perodua Myvi Listing on CARSOME

1. Pros and Cons

PROS

CONS

Reliable (regular service and maintenance will keep the car problem-free) ✔

Poor sound insulation especially the whining noise from the engine but this is improved on the third generation (M800)

Petrol efficient – a full tank can travel approximately 500-kilometers ✔

Getting up to speed is slow, especially on an incline

Spacious cabin for a family of four with plenty of legroom, headroom and storage compartments for a road trip ✔

Interior build quality is poor, using cheaper plastics but it has improved on the third generation (M800)

 Comfortable ride as it absorbs potholes well ✔

Ride quality is not smooth over rough surfaces

 Usable boot-space at 277-liters, expandable up to 832-liters with rear seats folded – it’s enough to fit a family of four luggage ✔

Rear seats used to fold flat on the third generation (M800), this will make arranging items
slightly
harder when loading

Low maintenance costs ✔

Small vehicle size (easy to park) ✔

Brakes are well-calibrated, it’s not jerky like the second generation (M600) ✔

Seats are supportive for the lumbar ✔

Full size spare tire ✔

Built-in SmartTAG reader on the third generation (M800) – no RFID complications ✔

Advanced Safety Assist (A.S.A) on the third generation (M800) – an advanced driving aid in case you fall asleep at the wheel ✔

It is clear that the third generation
Perodua Myvi
(M800) is a significant upgrade over the predecessor it replaces. The body is less boxy and more sharp looking, with a lower and wider stance, making the car feel more stable.

Furthermore, there are
more standard features
 now on the third generation
Myvi
 such as
keyless

entry
 (which allows you to lock or unlock your car by pressing the button on the door handle),
 push-start

button
(starting the car with a push button instead of the outdated “insert and twist” method),
full size spare tire
,
LED headlights
 and
taillights
 (LED combination),
acoustic windscreen
(blocks ambient noise from outside),
Anti-braking System (ABS)
,
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
 [prevents the tires from locking up and skidding],
Vehicle Stability Control
and
traction control
(stabilizes the car if it loses control),
four airbags
 (predecessor only had two) and a
five-star ASEAN NCAP crash test rating
(improved over the four-star of its predecessor to ensure safe design standards in crashworthiness).

For the six airbags, you need to step up to the
Perodua Myvi 1.5 High
variant and while you do get the
Perodua
’s version of ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance System) or in
Perodua
’s marketing terms –
Advanced Safety Assist

(A.S.A)
, you need to get the top of the range
Perodua Myvi 1.5 Advance
 variant for that. At the time of launch in
2018
, the third generation
Myvi
 was the cheapest car to receive such an advanced driving aid system.

Here’s everything you need to know about
Perodua’s Advanced Safety Assist (A.S.A)
.

2. A Fair Price to Pay

From our website
, the price for a used
Perodua Myvi
ranged from
RM20,000
to
RM50,000
 depending on the year, variant, condition, and mileage of the car. A fair price to pay would be around
RM48,000
, that can get you a
2018 Perodua Myvi 1.5 High
 with a mileage of 65,277 KM. With a 10 percent down payment, the estimated monthly installment cost
RM519 per month
.

Alternatively, if that is out of your budget then take a look at the
2016 Perodua Myvi 1.5 SE
 for
RM39,500
with a mileage of 101,461 KM. With similar loan calculations, you’re looking to pay an estimated sum of
RM432 per month
.

On the other hand, if you are looking to spend less than
RM400
 per month then take a look at the
2014 Perodua Myvi 1.3 EZI
priced at
RM32,500
 with a mileage of 65,627 KM. You’re looking to pay an estimated sum of
RM355 per month
 after factoring in a 10 percent down payment.

3. Which Variant to Buy?

We recommend the third-generation
Perodua Myvi 1.5 High
 variant as it gets you the six airbags, a more refined engine with higher power output (
same as the 1.5-liter engine found in the Toyota Yaris
) and sportier trims such as larger dual-tone rims, body kit and a spoiler.

A 2018 Perodua Myvi 1.5 High sold on CARSOME for RM49,900

4. What Are the Common Problems?

The
Perodua Myvi
has been Malaysia’s best-selling car for so many years and you do not get such standing without its reliability. Despite the fact that the third generation
Myvi
 is fully-designed locally without being based on the
Toyota Passo/Daihatsu Boon
, reliability has always been a part of the
Myvi.

Mechanically speaking, there are no common problems here except for the first generation
Myvi
(M300), which is known for air-conditioner compressor issues. Due to poor lubrication in the engine, the oil in the compressor can turn black after some time and will damage the air-conditioner over time.

If you plan to get the first generation
Myvi
, it is recommended to service the air-conditioner immediately after getting it. Other than that, regular service and maintenance will keep the car problem-free.

Do note there was a
recall
 by
Perodua
 for the
Myvi
’s fuel pump replacement, affected models were manufactured between late-2018 to 2019. Therefore, this is something to keep in mind when surveying for a used
Perodua Myvi
.

5. How Much to Maintain?

Road Tax

RM70
(1.3-liter)

RM90
 (1.5-liter)

Tires/pc (~)

RM120 – RM250

Minor service (Engine oil and oil filter) [~]

RM200 – RM400

Air conditioner service (~)

RM250 – RM280

The Hatchback That Aids Inability

Whether you’re a fresh graduate looking for a car or a person looking for a daily vehicle or even as a second car, the
Perodua Myvi
 is a great choice as it’s reliable, it’s practical, has a low maintenance cost, and most of all it is value for money. The
Myvi
is suitable for anyone from all walks of life.

Buy CARSOME Certified for Peace of Mind

Here at CARSOME, we believe in creating an end-to-end buying journey to eliminate the concerns of traditional used car buying experience.
CARSOME Certified
 is the new standard of buying pre-owned cars backed up by our
175-point inspection
 together with our
CARSOME Certified Refurbishment Process
. By creating a trusted used car ecosystem, CARSOME Certified guarantees trust, transparency, and choice.

Check out our CARSOME Certified Perodua Myvi
here
.

Check out our CARSOME Certified Cars
here
.


Proton X70: Even Better Value for Money After a Few Years? (Used Buying Guide)

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Car Reviews
Proton X70: Even Better Value for Money After a Few Years? (Used...

By

Amarnath

To say the
Proton X70
 was a paradigm shift, not just in
Proton’s line-up
, but in the way it operated moving forward, would be an understatement. In an age of
SUVs
 ruling the roost, the carmaker’s first offering in that segment had to appease all stakeholders.

Of course, it was born from a heavy synergy with partner Geely, being based on the Chinese automotive heavyweight’s Boyue SUV. Of course, Proton did infuse its own prowess into various aspects of the car to better adapt it for the local requirements of consumers as well as our less-than-stellar roads.

A 2020 Proton X70 1.8 TGDi Premium X sold for RM100,900 on CARSOME

With the weight of a nation on its inclining shoulders, the Proton X70 launched in 2018 to much fanfare. That it undercut the Japanese competition in price wasn’t a surprise, as were the levels of equipment and refinement that was on par as well.

Nonetheless, the popularity of the X70 has recently been plagued by complaints of part shortages and gearbox malfunctions. Therefore, it begs the question, is a used X70 a great value for money proposition, or could you be left wanting, literally, more?

To simplify the X70’s lifecycle in Malaysia, it can be split into two major updates thus far; the first was during the switch from fully-imported CBU (Complete Built-Up) to locally-assembled CKD (Complete Knocked Down) models that saw the introduction of an all-new, Geely-developed seven-speed DCT transmission. Then, earlier this year it adopted the X50’s 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine for all variants save the flagship trim, which maintains the 1.8-liter engine.

Read More:

7 Car-Buying Tips to Score the Right Car for You

Proton X70 Variants Offered in Malaysia

At the time of its launch in 2018, the X70 was offered in four CBU variants, priced as follows:

Standard 2WD: RM 99,800

Executive 2WD RM 109,800

Executive AWD RM 115,800

Premium 2WD RM 123,800

Power for all variants was courtesy of a turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder that delivered 184 PS and 285 Nm of torque. Sitting between the engine and driven wheels was a 6-speed automatic transmission.

While the standard kit count was considerably impressive, distinguishing the flagship Premium trim was the full suite of bells and whistles of ADAS features that comprised Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), and Blind Spot Monitoring system.

Proton X70 Facelift

In early 2020, just before the pandemic plagued the world, Proton launched the CKD (locally-assembled) X70 that included a major change to its drivetrain alongside minor updates and revisions of the variants on offer.

Focussing on improving fuel consumption and efficiency in general, the CKD X70 saw the six-speed torque converter automatic dropped in favor of the aforementioned all-new seven-speed wet-type dual-clutch transmission (DCT). The switch to the extra cog and clutch included a new shift-by-wire gear lever.

Under the hood, the 1.8-liter TGDi turbocharged engine remained but was updated to the latest ‘Generation 3’ version that pumped out the same 184 PS but with 15 Nm more torque for a nice round 300 Nm.

Dubbed the 7DCT, Geely claimed the new transmission was benchmarked against some of the established players in the cog-swapping market; namedropping the likes of Volkswagen’s dry clutch DCT as well as the Aisin-sourced eight-speed automatic found in
BMWs
 and
Minis
.

Geely also mentioned that the 7DCT averaged an efficiency rate of 94.6 percent with a maximum of 97 percent; the latter bringing it close to figures returned by manual, three-pedal transmissions.

That also meant the CKD X70 saw a slight improvement in fuel consumption from 12.8km/l to 13.3km/l.

Lastly, the higher torque rating of the 7DCT allowed the torque output of the engine to be bumped up without overwhelming the transmission, as would have been the case with the outgoing six-speed auto.

Read More:
Used Mazda CX-5 Buying Guide

That wasn’t all Proton wrote though. Owing to dismal demand, the Executive AWD variant was dropped for the CKD range, replaced by a Premium 2WD variant instead. Pricing also saw reductions ranging from RM1,000 to RM5,000 with the new pricing as follows:

Standard: RM 94,800

Executive: RM 106,800

Premium: RM 119,800

Premium X: RM 122,800

Subsequently, the X70 received another significant refresh in 2022 that saw all variants bar the flagship Premium switch over to the
X50’s
 turbocharged 1.5-liter, three-cylinder petrol engine. Atop the X70 food chain, the Premium retains the 1.8-liter TGDi mill that still boasted a higher power output.

Interestingly, the 2022 refresh brought about the reintroduction of the Executive AWD variant that was previously dropped.

Used Market Prices

Given the backlog of orders for new cars that’s resulted in an extensive waiting period, pre-owned cars have been able to command a higher price in the used car market. It’s no surprise that popular models such as C-segment SUVs hold a higher asking price.

A quick search will place prices for the CBU 2018 to 2020 Proton X70 units in the RM80k to RM95k range, depending on the variant of course.

As for the 2020 CKD X70 models with the 7DCT, pricing starts at RM90k and extends well into the RM110k vicinity for a 2021 model.

For similar money as a
used X70
, you could be looking at some of its Japanese peers such as a used
Honda CR-V
 with the caveat that the Japanese SUVs will be a couple of years older, giving the X70 a distinct advantage of being newer and likely to still be wearing the manufacturer’s warranty.

Read More:
Is It Time to Sell or Upgrade Your Car? Here Are the Signs

Which One to Get?

In the case of the Proton X70, the safest bet will always be the Premium variant. The reasoning behind that recommendation is simple, it’s got all the bells and whistles.

Only the Premium received ADAS features and for a family mover, the more safety the better.

If ADAS isn’t a must-have, you can’t go wrong with any of the mid or entry-level variants as the equipment level doesn’t vary much and they remain mechanically identical.

Nonetheless, another cardinal aspect to keep in mind is the replacement costs for wear and tear items such as tires that vary between the Standard and Premium variants as the latter runs on 19-inch rubbers that will undoubtedly cost much more to replace.

2020 Proton X70 CKD basic costs

Variant

Standard

Premium

Road Tax (RM)

360

360

Tire Size

225/65R17

225/55R19

Tires/pc (RM)

420-600

750-900

Battery – DIN 74 (RM)

450-600

450-600

The X70 has a large 512-liter boot enough for all your balik kampung luggage

Common Problems with the Proton X70

Having selected which variant to go for, the only other paramount consideration would be the choice of transmission. Do you prefer the simplicity of the traditional torque-converter 6-speed automatic or the benefits but also possible pricier maintenance of the 7DCT?

Furthermore, it’s impossible to ignore the elephant in the room of numerous complaints surrounding parts shortages for the X70 as well as the X50. That said, the parts shortages aren’t limited to just Proton but is a global problem affecting other carmakers as well. It’s just that given the higher volume of sales here, the repercussions are spread wider.

Nonetheless, the larger owner demographic does make it easier to observe common issues with the model, some of which are detailed below:

Proton X70 Common Problems

Part

Symptoms

Cost (RM)

Main cooling fan

Noisy operation, AC not cold, overheating

750

Engine mounts

Strong vibration from engine

1,500

Front absorber

Noisy suspension over bumps

650

Door lever

Broken door lever

300

Torque converter
 (CBU X70)

Jerky gear changes, transmission juddering between 4th-5th gears

3,000

Read More:
 5 Habits That Are Actually Damaging Your Car’s Transmission

In the case of the supposedly simpler 6-speed auto in the CBU units, there have been documented cases of premature failure with the torque converter itself, resulting in
jerking during gear changes
 as well as juddering between 4th and 5th gears.

You can expect to fork out around RM3,000 or so to resolve the issue at a service center.

If you’re wondering why the CKD units with the 7DCT aren’t covered here, it’s simply down to the fact that being less than 2 years old, the transmission is still very much under Proton’s five-year/unlimited mileage warranty that would see the service center rectifying or replacing any defects. Therefore, there exists a lack of independently verifiable data from independent service centrer or external workshops to more accurately gauge repair costs.

In the case of the 7DCT, most complaints centered around jerky shifting, especially from a standstill or in slow-moving traffic between first and second gears. So, if you’re getting a CKD unit, keep an eye out for these symptoms when test-driving the car.

Owners have also suggested carrying out a transmission adaptation/relearning that in some cases resulted in the issue being rectified. However, while this isn’t a sure fix, it’s something that can be attempted before major work is considered.

From a maintenance point of view, the upkeep of the X70 is generally considered reasonable. For instance, the priciest scheduled maintenance occurs at the 60,000km mark with an estimated bill of RM1,100.

As a benchmark, here’s a table of the estimated costs for scheduled maintenance of an X70:

Proton X70 CKD Maintenance Costs

Maintenance / Interval

Items

Cost (RM)

Oil change / 10,000km

Engine oil, oil filter

250

Air filter / 20,000km

Engine air filter

60

Cabin filter / 20,000km

N95-grade cabin filter

100

Fuel filter / 20,000km

Fuel filter

25

Brake servicing / 60,000km

Brake fluid

50

Transmission servicing / 60,000km

ATF fluid and filter set

350

Coolant / 60,000km

Radiator coolant

100

Spark plugs / 20,000km

New spark plugs

110

Conclusion

Right now, the only aspect hampering the X70’s popularity stems from the parts shortage that shows no signs of being sorted in the short term. Truth is though that the X70 isn’t the only model blighted by this but is arguably the one that’s feeling the pinch the most.

On the other hand, from a purely value-for-money perspective, the X70 is firmly atop the C-segment SUV pyramid. It’s a handsome thing with continental design cues, has sufficient punch under the hood, and carries class-leading safety tech. Perhaps the only black mark on its report card could be an interior that lacks as much room as its chief Japanese rival but alas, having your cake and eating it too is still asking much in the segment. Something will always have to give.

Check out
CARSOME
 you’re looking for a pre-owned
Proton X70
.

You can also download our mobile app from the
Google Play Store
 or
Apple App Store
 for a hassle-free car-shopping experience in your hands.

Amarnath


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Used Subaru – Giving You Confidence in Motion

By

Carsome Author

Do you know that buying a used car is just as great as getting a new car. The perks that come with getting a used car is that you would not have to worry about the depreciating cost of the car’s value. A used car is also considered safer on the road as it would have gone through all its inspections and repairs. These are just some of the many reasons why a used car would be the better choice when it comes to purchasing. So if you have set your mind on getting a Subaru, do keep in mind that a used Subaru is not only a durable car or an SUV, but this brand has a reputation of long-term reliability which makes it the perfect used car!

Which Used Subaru Should You Buy?

Here are some of our favorite Subaru models.

Subaru Legacy

Subaru Legacy has been one of the most popular sedans among families for many years. Its interior is quite comfortable, with its spacious cabin space and an integrated sound system that supports both Android and iPhone devices. Since its launch date in the 1990s, the Legacy has only gone up and improved with each of its model years. One thing that makes this car a worthy purchase is that it comes standard with all-wheel drive at an affordable suite of safety tech features. Its latest model, the 2019 Legacy comes with a 2.5L, making 175hp and an optional 3.6L flax-six paired with a CVT.

Subaru Ascent

This car
 is the brand’s largest model and like most of the other models, this SUV comes standard with all-wheel drive. It is the perfect family car that will drive your kids safely to school and cover all your grocery runs regardless of the weather. Its flexible interior with three rows of seats makes it feel more like a minivan than an SUV. The 2020 Subaru Accent is manufactured with driver-assist tech, automated emergency braking as well as lane assist and comes with the same engine as its previous models.

Subaru WRX

If you are looking for a car which is both powerful and affordable, then you should look at the Subaru WRX. It is a fan favorite in the rally car and dirt racing circuits and is treasured by those who love the brand. But this car does not scream comfort as it has an extremely loud cabin thanks to its rally aspects. But this powerful car comes with a 2L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine mated with a standard 6-speed automatic CVT transmission, making 268hp and 258 lb-ft of torque.

Subaru Outback

While it is actually a station wagon, Subaru calls the 2019 Outback an SUV.
The Outback
 has a very impressive profile — its capability to haul and tow. as well as tackle all-weather conditions make it a tough competitor to beat in its class. It is an adventurer’s car. It comes with a ton of driver-assist tech on all its models, with the all-wheel coming standard on all variants.

Subaru Forester

Subaru Forester
 is known as the “big brother of the Subaru Outback. This model is an impressive heavy-duty SUV that offers more towing power and a bigger storage space compared to the Outback. Being the brand’s favorite car, the Forester showcases Subaru’s adventurous brand image perfectly. It is a car designed to take the kids to school, get your groceries as well as charge through the mud. With just the right amount of ruggedness and enough space for the whole family and gear, the Forester is built to handle adventure with style and grace. It comes standard with all-wheel drive powered by the same 2.5L you would see in the Subaru Outback paired to a CVT transmission, making 182hp.

We hope these 5 models would help narrow down your choices when it comes to picking out your favorite Subaru car. No matter if you want a sedan or even a SUV, we guarantee you, a used Subaru of choice is the way to go. Now that you are planning to get a used Subaru, do check out Carsome.
Carsome
 is the platform that not only buys used cars but also sells quality ensured used cars. Do check the website to know more and book your test drive for a Subaru today

Carsome Author


3rd-gen Toyota Vios: Fresh Face & New Engine But Is It Worth The Money? (Used Buying Guide)

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3rd-gen Toyota Vios: Fresh Face & New Engine But Is It Worth...

By

Amarnath

You could say the current third-generation
Toyota Vios
 (NCP 150) is getting a little long in the tooth over here in Malaysia and you’d be right as the coveted fourth generation will be here soon. It was launched a decade ago in 2013 with the usual array of improvements to take the battle to its archnemesis, the
Honda City
, as well as contemporary peers such as the
Nissan Almera
 and by a stretch, the
Mazda 2
 sedan.

However, taking a leaf out of the European facelift playbook, the Vios underwent a facelift in 2016 that wasn’t limited to the usual cosmetics and equipment smoke show. Some subtle visual redesigns paled in comparison to a new engine and transmission combo.

This made the NCP 150 Vios a truly unique model in that it was sold with two different powertrains across its lifespan. Both had their pros and cons and fortunately, you can still get the pre-facelift if that suits your needs more.

A 2017 Toyota Vios 1.5 G sold for RM64,400 on CARSOME

Let’s take a look at the differences between the
pre-facelift
 and
facelifted
 variants as well as the common problems and maintenance costs to expect with ownership.

Toyota Vios Range in Malaysia

The primary difference between the two versions lies with the engine and transmission, which is where the focus will be. To the layman, they were both 1.5-liter inline-four engines with an automatic. Nonetheless, key characteristic differences saw the earlier 1NZ-FE a little punchier with more low-down torque whereas the newer 2NR-FE was more economical in terms of fuel but at the expense of some power.

Read More:
History of Toyota: The Largest Carmaker in the World

1NZ-FE engine

Owners of the first-generation Vios (NCP 42) will be familiar with this mill. It’s been soldiering on in the Vios largely unchanged save for the usual tweaks with every facelift exercise or model change to improve fuel consumption.

The 1NZ-FE was a 1.5-liter, four-cylinder with VVT-i (intake side). In its final form under the hood of the pre-facelift NCP 150, it made 109 PS and 141 Nm of torque. A traditional torque-converter 4-speed auto did its best to overwhelm the front wheels with it.

Tweaks from the previous generation (NCP 93) in the form of lighter components and a redesigned air-filter housing reportedly returned a five percent improvement in fuel consumption.

2NR-FE engine

With the facelift, the NCP 150 Vios became the second
Toyota
 in the country to adopt the 2NR-FE, following in the footsteps of the Toyota Avanza in the preceding year. The Vios hatchback sibling, the
Toyota Yaris
, would also be propelled by the same engine.

The primary improvement with the 1.5-liter, four-cylinder 2NR-FE was the availability of dual VVT-i. This meant variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust sides. Coupled with Iridium spark plugs, it had marked gains in fuel efficiency.

Power, though, took a small hit, dropping negligibly to 107 PS and 140 Nm of torque in return for efficiency.

Mated to the new engine was a new transmission as well, a CVT automatic with a sequential manual mode to cycle through the 7 virtual ratios. Toyota claimed fuel efficiency went up by 18 percent.

Read More:
The Toyota Corolla – 11 Generations Through Images

1NZ-FE Vs 2NR-FE Bore and Stroke

Although both engines had a capacity of 1.5-liters, the 2NR-FE was more of a long-stroke engine (72 mm bore x 91.8 mm stroke) against the older 1NZ-FE (75 mm bore x 84.7 mm stroke). To recap, the bore is the diameter of each cylinder while the stroke is the distance within the cylinder the piston travels.

This very much remained true to the basic engine principles regarding the correlation between bore and stroke versus power and efficiency.

To summarize, the pistons in an engine with a shorter stroke will travel less in each combustion cycle, meaning the pistons move a greater distance in the same amount of time against a long-stroke engine. That makes more RPM, meaning more power. Furthermore, the bigger bore with short-stroke engines allows larger valves for more air movement. All this equals more power.

On the opposite end, a long-stroke engine will be more efficient. However, it isn’t directly related to the power equation but involves surface area. Simply put, a long-stroke engine has less surface area in a cylinder during combustion, leading to less energy lost in the form of heat. This equates to a more efficient cycle.

The Variant To Buy And Current Market Prices

An easy way to identify the facelifted NCP 150 with the new engine is by the DRLs on the front bumper.

The pre-facelift models ran from 2014 to 2016 with pricing for these ranging between RM48,000 to RM60,000.

If the new engine and transmission find favor with you, expect to fork out a heftier sum between RM55,000 and RM65,000.

As for the best variant, in this case, it’s going to be the flagship Vios G. Equipment wise, things don’t change much during the facelift exercise so if the budget permits, put your money on the highest spec that carries kit such as projector headlights, an acoustic windscreen, a multi-info display, Toyota Premium Security and Solar
Film tint
.

However, if your budget doesn’t allow for the flagship variant, it’s still comforting to note that the facelift exercise in 2016 saw stability control become standard safety across the range although the airbag count remained a dismal two at the front.

Bear in mind when making your decision that the pre-facelift variants didn’t possess stability control, not even in the flagship trims.

Maintenance & Common Problems

The Vios is still a Toyota sedan. So rest assured, it’s up there with the Corolla nameplate in terms of reliability. That said, the Vios does have some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of when looking at a particular unit.

Both engines are mechanically bombproof and furthermore, can lay claim to having endured the grueling and demanding motorsports life under the Toyota Gazoo Racing Vios Challenge series.

In terms of basic maintenance, the following table should serve as an indicative point for pricing:

Maintenance / Interval

1NZ-FE

2NR-FE

Oil change / 10,000km

RM175 (semi-synthetic)

RM295 (fully-synthetic)

Air filter / 20,000km

RM95

RM95

Cabin filter / 30,000km

RM25

RM25

Brake service / 40,000km

RM60

RM60

Transmission service

RM150 (40,000km)

RM300 (80,000km)

Coolant 160,000km, (subsequent 80,000km)

RM120

RM120

Spark plugs

RM80 (40,000km)

RM350 (100,000km)

You might notice the huge gap in pricing for the spark plugs between the two engines and as mentioned earlier, that’s largely due to the shift towards pricier iridium plugs in the 2NR-FE.

As far as common issues go, the 1NZ-FE is guilty of sprouting minor leaks at the crankshaft oil seal and timing belt cover.

Furthermore, with high mileage comes a noticeably lower idle. The usual suspects here could be a dirty throttle body, a faulty Idle Control Valve (ICV), or a failing Mass Air Flow sensor (MAF).

As for the newer 2NR-FE, there have been cases of it developing an irregular clattering noise (usually after the 100k km mark) from the timing belt area. In most cases, it’s a worn belt tensioner that can be solved with a replacement.

Conclusion

You’re most likely buying a
Vios
 for its fuel efficiency and refinement, which the latter 2NR-FE and CVT pairing in the 2016 facelift was designed to deliver.

On the other hand, those looking for something a little zippier with some zest in its drive will appreciate the pre-facelift 1NZ-FE and its stouter lower-end torque. Although it does lose out in terms of fuel consumption, it’s still a Vios, so you won’t exactly be burning a hole in your wallet with trips to the petrol station.

At the end of the day, you can’t go wrong with either version of the Vios. It all boils down to your budget and what exactly you’re looking for in your Toyota sedan. Rest assured, it’ll serve you reliably for years to come.

Visit
CARSOME
 to find your dream car or download our app from the
Google Play Store
 or
Apple App Store
 today!

Amarnath