Test Drive Season

Been visiting alot of car showrooms lately, such as Volkswagen, BMW, Audi, Mercedes, Citroen, Proton etc. I must say the new BMW 328i still tops the list with a superb turbo charged 2.0L engine and precise handling befitting the Ultimate Driving Machine catchline only to be let down by the price. At a blistering RM 450,000 tag, it is not for the general masses in Malaysia.

2012 BMW 328i

The launch of the new Polo Sedan by Volkswagen also marks the entry of a budget European car at a price tag of RM 99,888. Not exactly "budget" by Malaysian standards but its good to know the Wolfsburg based carmaker is doing its very best to bring Das Auto to the Malaysian crowd. Engine is a standard 1.6L MPI engine with 105PS / 153Nm coupled to a 6-speed Tiptronic automatic. Build quality is typical VW with excellent fit and finish.

Polo Sedan launched in Wearnes Bangsar

Let's not forget our national carmaker Proton, who recently launched the Proton Preve. At a glance the Proton Preve impresses with its strong bold lines and prominent front end. Keeping pace with the European standards for automotive lighting it also comes with Daylight Running LEDs. A first for the Malaysian carmaker. Also equally impressive is the new 1.6L turbocharged engine designed in collaboration with Lotus. While the engine shines with its low end torque and strong pull from start, the 7-speed Protronic CVT gearbox was a bummer. With hesistant shifts and slow response it isnot a car to be pushed or hurried along. Excellent chassis tuning and suspension setup makes this a fun and dynamic car to drive at the same time being forgiving as well when the going gets rough thanks to ESP and EBD assist. The only thing that will turn buyers away is its cheap interior with poor fit and finish. With a ceiling price of RM 72,000 it's hard to ignore the bells and whistles that Preve offers.

Proton Preve

That's about it for the month of April. Lots of test drives with cars being pushed to the edge for the thrill and adrenaline rush from yours truly.

"It isn't the mountain ahead that wears you out, it's the grain of sand in your shoe" - Robert W. Service