1. Brand: Either Proton or Mitsubishi (Inspira or Lancer GT)

2. Budget: looking for installment below RM700-600 per month. D/P can afford till 20-25K

3. New/Used/Unreg: New or Used also can

4. Specs: Inspira 1.8 MT , Lancer Gt 2.0

5. Transmission: preferably manual , last choice would be auto

6. NA or FI: n/a

7. Type: Sedan

8. Remarks: 7 or 9 years loan

I'm currently having thoughts about these models below.
Any thought from sifu zenix?

1. Skoda Octavia (2006-2007) 1.6/1.8 (A)
2. Peugeot 307 (2003/05) 1.6 (A)

My concerns are mostly about reliability and maintenance. I understand if it would be slightly higher since they're continental cars but I would like to have a baseline on that.

On top of that, any other recommendation for continental cars around the same price/year tag?

This post has been edited by apersaje: Oct 5 2013, 10:58 PM

2007 Skoda 1.8 T 20v @ RM25k - I think you'll be hard pressed to find another conti which can give you the same amount of value as a Skoda. This Octavia is basically the same as a Audi A4 1.8T (B6). Usually Skoda's like last years designer fashion wear is cheaper because its not the cutting edge from the VW group in terms of technology, sometimes they're one generation back on selected models -- because R&D cost is already amortized by VW and Audi sales they can afford to just restyle the body and use back the same engine, gearbox, suspension, etc. to make Skoda's cheaper (similarly like how Toyota is recycling everything since 2002 for their Vios with just restyled bodies). If you're living around KL area it is worth a shot to try out Skoda, the seller for this car is a conti specialist and told me about a specialist center for Skoda in USJ, then you can also go to the official 3S at Dunia Prestasi @ Glenmarie, or if you wish you can also source from Singapore as they have a large and lively community there. In terms of reliability of course the Skoda parts are going to outlast the Pug since they're made by VW some made in Germany, mostly around Europe, some in China as well. For some of the more common parts like brakes, wipers, etc. there are always compatible parts from Japan, Taiwan, and China since these components are quite standard among all cars. Price wise it should be about the same for both brands in terms of maintenance and parts. With Skoda being not too well known and rare it is quite possible to get away with driving around a 2007 model and people thinking its a 2013 model, plus the entry price is so low it is really worth a shot especially with its engine and gearbox which is at current two generations below VW Malaysia's latest offering.

Pug's in general I wouldn't touch because lacks the overall prestige (or even the look of a prestige conti, more akine to Japanese/Korean atypical styling) and equipment. Firstly, the 307 you spoke of lacks a turbo so you can't compare the performance of the 307 with the Skoda Octavia above, then also the interior and luggage space is also inferior, and coupled with maintenance cost of equivalent value you'll be a sad sad man in a Pug. Secondly the 308, you'll have to look really hard to find someone selling the 308T below RM50k at the moment though there are some 308VTI's floating around which brings the question of getting the Turbo or VTI? Well, that is your decision but first some head's up on what you're getting into; while the VTI would be more economical to maintain since no fussy turbo to take care of it isn't much of a powerhouse so expect sluggish performance from it, then the Turbo is base on the 1600cc Prince Turbo engine which is used by BMW, Citroen and Peugeot (PSA group) it is a decent engine though the spec on the 308T for me is kinda crappy as it doesn't feel fast nor is fast (the better incarnation from Peugeot of this engine is on the 408) plus according to foreman's i've chat with it requires alot of TLC and pretty big service every 50,000km with belt change as well.

Would you be interested in other D-segment or C-segment conti cars less than RM50k?

Thanks for the comprehensive explanation sifu zenix.

Earlier I considered the pug because my pug enthusiast friend racun me many times bout getting a pug.

After I came across your post a few pages back and digging aroudn some info, found out about the Octavia. There's even a facebook group for it.

Too bad only one Mk2 model up for sale currently but it's been targeted by one group member and it's out of my budget range of around 30k. There's also another Mk2 for sale but SW version.

Since the new model has been launched, is it possible that more existing (tho small number) existing Skoda owner gonna let go their Octavia?

This post has been edited by apersaje: Oct 7 2013, 04:18 PM

1. Brand: No local cars, Mazda CX-5, Vios, VW Polo/Golf?

2. Budget: Preferably below RM100k, with the exception of the CX-5

3. New/Used/Unreg: New or Used

4. Specs: Any

5. Transmission: Auto

6. NA or FI: Any

7. Type: Any

8. Remarks: I really really like the CX-5, what is the main difference between the one assembled in Malaysia and the imported ones? I realize that the rims are different, no sunroof, the imported CX-5's white is nicer than the locally assembled one. But that is all external outlook.. Any comments on the difference in performance and such?

I know the CX-5 is still new, hard to find a secondhand one.. But how is the RV and FC on it?

Just started on my research a few days ago, still new to the market. Loads to learn, your help is appreciated!

Cheers

This post has been edited by markypcs: Oct 7 2013, 05:41 PM

Planning to get new vios j also. My question is, how long is the warranty offer by Toyota? How is the maintenance of vios for previous gen? Toyota got offerfree service?

1. Brand : any reliable

2. Budget : 100-140k

3. New/Used/Unreg : new

4. Specs : any

5. Transmission : AT

6. NA or FI : any

7. Type : Sedan

8. Remarks : Keen on a reliable everyday runner car, i think the Honda Civic/CRV would fit this criteria, economical to maintain good on fuel last long etc, but i'm open to other brands and just want to know what else in the market could match a bang for the buck value. I would like a conti but i doubt my budget would be able to accommodate for that.

Thoughts anyone?

Better get Toyota Mark X 250G than BMW E90 320i. If want E90 should at least get 325i.

1. Brand : any reliable

2. Budget : 40k

3. New/Used/Unreg : new

4. Specs : any

5. Transmission : AT

6. NA or FI : any

7. Type : Any

currently thinking of buy new car,first time buyer..
looking the best option for fuel comsumption,maintainance and long term value?

This post has been edited by K.H.A.I: Oct 8 2013, 04:10 AM

BMW maintenance cost expensive?

Not too sure what will be the final price but here is some information for you since you love Mitsubishi.

OFFICIAL: Mitsubishi ASX to be CKD in Malaysia, Tan Chong Motor Assemblies Sdn Bhd will be the contract assembler for the ASX. Production is slated to start in January 2014, with sales to begin soon after in February 2014.

As for buying a new car your, RM90k less downpayment RM25k with standard interest rate of 2.5% on 9 years loan so monthly is RM737.27

I've just plugged in the figure into the calculator here. You can go in yourself to play around with the figure to your liking, for the purpose of my discussion with you I'm taking the maximum allowance.

Alrighty then! RM90k can get you the Proton Inspira 2.0E or stretch it abit by RM3k to get the 2.0P. Well, if you ask me what I think about getting this car then I'd have to think about it. Yes, it is a new car and yes you're getting something like a CKD version of a very good car. If you do not mind the badge then go for the highest spec and don't think about the 1.8MT as I always feel like I'm in a stripped down taxi version.

Of course even at RM90k you need to break the RM110k barrier to get a Mitsubishi Lancer, then of course you'd think that the Mitsubishi Mirage is too small of a hatchback for your needs....if only there was a sedan version of the Mirage. Well, there is actually....it is called the Mitsubishi Attrage and its starting price for the base model is RM59k which undercuts every other B-segment car out there even the king of cheap now which is the Nissan Almera. Actual prices and specs aren't available at the moment I am writting this but I think by the time you buy one everything would be much clearer.....an alternative for you to think about.

So now lets talk about used car, RM60k less downpayment RM25k with standard interest rate of 4.5% on 5 years loan so monthly is RM737.27 to compensate for the higher interest rate (you can probably find lower outside just putting the market average) and of course used car you might want to sell it off earlier as when you buy it, it is probably already a 3-5 years old so adding another 5 years would make it 10 years old, abit difficult to sell because banks only provide loans for cars younger than 10 years. So, perhaps getting a used car which is 4 years old or younger and use it for 5 years and then change car after that.....your choice. Anyway, I'm going to skip B-segment cars and straight away talk about C-segments because you're already buying used might as well make your ringgit stretch more.

2010 Nissan Latio 1.6 - is a good choice to start off with because it is cheap to buy and maintain, Nissan cars have poorer resale value than Toyota so you can get a better spec Latio (which is a C-segment car as opposed to Vios which is B-segment) at RM52k than you would be able to get from a Toyota Vios but still enjoy cheap ownership as it is not very expensive to maintain and parts are cheap. The design and styling might not be everyone's cup of tea but it is a more newer design but for around the same price range you can get 2010 Nissan Sentra 1.6 which offers the same as what the Latio does but in a much sportier looking package yet its sporty lines could be dated if you prefer the cars with the newest kinetic design looks then you might need to look for the top range C-segment from Nissan which is the 2008 Nissan Sylphy 2.0 which has new design, look and space utilization.

2007 Mitsubishi Lancer GLS - I think since you're a Mitsubishi-man this will interest you more, it is a real cheap bargain buy if you ask me. Although, I am in the opinion that the 1600cc engine isn't enough but then it is paired with a CVT so I don't think it is that bad since the CVT makes use of every drop of power the engine can churn out so with less power loss and better efficiency I think it is a bearable engine unless you're a performance freak then this isn't the car for you.

2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo 4 - if the car above doesn't get you excited then this would but please take note this car is going to be 10 years old in a few months time but being a sports model and rarity of its breed the design look will of course be timeless thus you won't get the "i just bought an old junk" feeling but of course it really is old so there would be many parts that are worn and need replacing. Maintenance for a sports car isn't cheap but luckily its a Mitsubishi so you can of course grab any compatible Proton part to lower your cost for things like window rubber seals, washers, etc. but it is still a sports car so don't expect cheap maintenance.

I've been chatting with an owner of a Skota Octavia L&K yesterday.
As the conversation went on it seems like unless you're playing original there aren't many stockist for parts in Malaysia, he is mostly getting stuff either from chop shops or Singapore.

His next plan is to link up with some suppliers in China to bring in OEM or original stuff from there since it is 20-25% cheaper than parts sold here.

I've been told the current model there is one unit which is new and unsold but it is the 1600cc model, you're interested to buy, the price is about RM60k.

Oh, seems that guy is really pushing the Skoda brand, going as far as bringing in spare parts from China.
60k for a new MK2? Very very tempting but that's too far from my initial budget.

BTW, seems like u're a conti enthusiast. Wonder what machine you drive.

Yes, buy the new Toyota Vios, your father in-law will love you.

At first glance it does looks nice doesn't it but you're getting a used car, cannot choose your number plate, no new car experience or smell, haih.....and the difference is just RM100 in the repayment!

2012 Honda CRZ @ RM88,500 - RM1180 monthly for 7 years.

2013 Honda CRZ @ RM98,000 - RM1233.75 monthly for 7 years.

So which one you going to choose now?

Since your taste and requirements seem to jump around abit from CRZ to BMW, I'm guessing you're looking for something fun to drive with high prestige yet reliable and not too painful to maintain? Below is my round-up for you according to my guesstimate of your taste

2005 Mini Cooper S 1.6 - the S version is the top spec version with turbo engine and sunroof, making it the hot pick for people looking for this model something like Toyota Vios TRD while the Mini One is the basic one similar to Toyota Vios J-spec. This car is fun to drive, high prestige, the look is ageless so won't age as fast as say a Toyota Vios 2014 model. The bad bit is although the engine is shared between PSA partners like Peugeot and Citroen unless you find a good enough mechanic you might still have to go back and buy original BMW parts for your Mini which is not going to be cheap. And I've stated the Prince Turbo engine does require some TLC every 50,000kms so maintenance isn't on the low side, reliability wise it is quite decent being a German car but do watch out for things like oil coolers which may not be spec for our climate eventhough it is a CBU.

If you can stretch your budget to RM110k here are two tasty options for you, the 2005 VW Golf GTI MK5 or 2010 VW Golf TSI if you're a speed freak you can't really pass up the opportunity to own one of the top cars in our market, although it has aged abit it is still a proper sports car. I won't sugar coat it for you, the maintenance for this baby isn't going to be a cakewalk because it is already 8 years old and without warranty anything goes wrong and it will need to come out from your pocket so are you ready for that? On the otherhand the younger TSI still has another 2 years of warranty left, although not as brutal as the GTI, the TSI is no slouch when it comes to performance and would easily beat other cars in the same segment.

2010 VW Polo 1.2 TSI - though I think you can satisfy your 'need for speed' or 'turbo-lust' with a Polo TSI, it is far cheaper to own gives the same feeling of power though size-wise is a plus or minus depending on the person. If you want a chili-padi this is a good option because it is a small nimble light car with a yummy turbo engine. Maintenance wise of course you cannot runaway since it is a conti, although it is a B-segment car you're going to be paying Civic/Altis like of maintenance money to keep this baby.

2007 Audi A4 - okay, lets say you have 'turbo lust' but can't stand being cooped up inside a small box like the Polo then perhaps you can consider an A4? Similar case as with the GTI this one doesn't come with any backup warranty if anything goes wrong after you buy it (especially since not all used car will give warranty nor honor it). What you get out of this package is a comfortable sedan which you can use to cruise at high-speed on highways. Outstation travel isn't so tiring yet with such refinement you might feel abit departed from the action and not feel as brutally bashed as you would in the GTI. Well, maintenance? Need I explain it is going to be a killer as well?

2010 Toyota Altis 1.8G - sensible options but boring when compared to the yummies above, really depends on what you think. Although the Civic for the same year and spec is going to be more expensive there is no harm going for an Altis which is just as good and probably you'd get props from your Toyota loving father-in-law for buying it. Prestige and performance wise it isn't bad but isn't great, I'd say its good. Prestige wise although it isn't a sports car it is still a respectable C-segment car not many people will look down on you. Performance wise a 1800cc for a C-segment car is decent enough you will be able to hit 200kmh. Maintenance is a world apart from the above especially if you don't use original and send it to the service center for maintenance it can be very very cheap.

You should just straight away go for the Civic 1.8 because unlike the other C-segment cars in that range Honda doesn't skimp on features especially safety features, you can read more here. You get a full featured car for the price you pay. Don't skimp that 10-20k to get a Sylphy, Lancer, or Altis as the basic models for those don't have any form of traction control.

However, I don't really see a point for a freshie that just started earning money to jump straight into the RM100k mark for cars. I'd suggest something sensible like a Honda Jazz the latest CKD version is fully equipped with everything even VSA (traction control) for around RM74k.



Fiesta is a good choice if you're not worried about depreciation. Technology and design for that amount of money is a value buy. However, it seems the facelift versions don't come with all the safety features as the pre-facelift models (please read my post in the previous page).

Pugeot 208 IMHO is a waste of time. Ugly, not powerful, and maintenance as pain in the ass as any conti.

Why not think of Jazz?

This post has been edited by zenix: Oct 8 2013, 05:34 PM

1. Brand : Any
2. Budget : Less than $99K
3. New/Used : New
4. Specs : Less than 2K cc
5. Transmission : Auto
6. NA or FI : Any
7. Type : Any
8. Remarks : Currently, my wife using Nov 2005, Inokom Matrix (choosen for the "high" seating position). Looking for similiar cars (preferable a reliable car [not a "gas gussler"]) with "high" seating position.

Any recommendations from car sifu's here is much appreciated.

This post has been edited by KL Barracuda2: Oct 8 2013, 05:30 PM

Well, personally I didn't really think much about it so I didn't follow it. Thought I'd just go online to find whats the difference but I'm quite disapointed as usual with our local auto journalist being subservant shoe polishers all the time. I read one article here and couldn't find anything useful, then I read this article and they skirted around answering the issue totally.

So I'm not too sure what are the exact differences between the CKD and CBU.

A colleague of mine as the CBU version according to him it is very fuel saving. We went on a outstation trip from KL to Johor. It could be that the Honda Insight driver was pushing the car too much on the highway and being only 1300cc that little engine was probably near explosion going at 160kmh. Needless to say the Insight really needed to pump petrol for the trip back while the CX5 owner pump just because he felt it was safer as the needle was just below the middle mark while the insight was left to only its last quarter. Bigger cc does help when you need to cruise at highspeeds.

After that experience, I'm thinking the CX5 is a pretty good car. Good design, fuel saving, 5 years warranty and 3 years free maintenance plan. All sounds good, then again resale value is always going to bite. If you don't bother about it too much then you should be fine as I don't think it would be that bad since they going to CKD it, so there must be a decent size and volume already.

But then the choice is yours, I can't really say it's a good/bad car. Somewhere in between I guess, probably this model would be the success story for Mazda like Fiesta is the success for Ford while all other models aren't selling as well and have terrible resale value?

Anyway below are a few things to turn your mind

2009 Toyota bB - do you like funky JDM cars? this is another one of those square cubic cars from Japan, although made in 2009 but its unregistered so new car interest rates apply. It's a matter of taste, either you love it or hate it. I've been told it shares the same engine as the Vios but I doubt this a little so went to check...

Toyota bB uses:
The 3SZ-VE is 1.5 L (1495 cc). Bore is 72 mm and stroke is 91.8 mm, with a compression ratio of 10.0:1 and redline of 6500 rpm. Output is 80 kW (107 hp) at 6000 rpm with 141 Nm of torque at 4400 rpm. It features VVT-i.

Toyota Vios (2013/2014 model) uses:
The 1NZ-FE is a 1.5 L (1497 cc) conventional Otto cycle variant of the 1NZ-FXE. It has the same bore and stroke, but the compression ratio is lowered to 10.5:1, and it features VVT-i. Output is 80 kW (107 hp) at 6000 rpm with 141 Nm (103 lb·ft) of torque at 4200 rpm. The redline is 6400 rpm.

...so eventhough they're both 1500cc VVTI engines from Toyota they're not the same although output is more or less the same because its a JDM of course it will have a better engine than Vios is meant for the cheaper mass market of SEA.

2011 Merc G55 AMG - came across another funky model which might pique your interest, however I've to admit I don't know much about this model but it looks great though has some classic rugged Jeep looks but refined on the inside. I think you need to go Merc Club forums to find out more though I think for the price it is a good buy.

2009 Nissan Dualis - an SUV which I have recommended before and I think would satisfies your need for something which is rare/unique with an eye catching design yet it has a reliable engine and maintenance/service aren't too expensive because of its sister model X-Trail is all too common on the roads. Basically, they took off the ugly boxy body from the X-trail, shrunk the Murano body and slapped it on the chassis....thats what I think



This post has been edited by zenix: Oct 9 2013, 09:50 AM

Dear Zenix

how is the maintenance for Audi above with the benz and bmw. which one is better in long run?

1. Brand - Any brand

2. Budget - Under 10k

3. New/Used/Unreg - New/Used.

4. Specs - Anything

5. Transmission - Auto/Manual

6. NA or FI ? (NA = Natural Aspirated, FI = Forced-induction aka Turbocharged/Supercharged) - I don't know what this is about.. Would you like to explain this because I am pretty newbie..

7. Type - 4 seater

8. Remarks - I am 24 years old female and my father is thinking about getting new car for me. I prefer with new car but my father prefer used car so that I could get used with driving. Plus, I'm not sure which car I should buy. There is one things I worried about is my height lol. My height is 160cm... so my feet must able to reach brake and accelerator :|

Help?

thanks for your answer zenix, its very detail and you know what my taste like, hehe. By the way i decide to stick with prestige sedan like http://www.oto.my/car-for-sale/91429/used-...325i-a-selangor, is RM10k enough if anything goes wrong for this car? i wonder the average maintenance cost as well?