Four new colors available for 2025 Honda Wave Alpha, priced from RM5,259

Boon Siew Honda has announced that four new colors are available for the 2025 Honda Wave Alpha, which are silver, blue, red, and black.

The 2025 Honda Wave Alpha is available at all Impian X dealerships as well as authorized Honda dealers nationwide starting from January 6, 2025.

The selling price starts at RM5,309 for the silver, blue, and red variants, while the black variant is priced at RM5,259.

In terms of specifications, the Wave Alpha maintains its air-cooled single-cylinder engine with a displacement of 109.2 cc, generating 8.7 hp at 7,500 rpm and torque of 8.7 Nm at 5,500 rpm, paired with a 4-speed transmission.

This motorcycle features telescopic front forks, followed by dual shock absorbers at the rear, and its braking system consists of a front disc brake and a mechanical drum brake at the rear.

It offers a fuel tank capacity of 4.0 liters, with under-seat storage of 7.3 liters, a seat height of approximately 768 mm, and a wider seat.

Honda NT1100 Police now available in the United States

Honda USA has begun offering the Honda NT1100 Police, a two-wheeled patrol vehicle intended for law enforcement agencies, which can now be ordered through the Powersports Fleet/Government Purchase program.

Built on the NT1100 sports touring model also available in the European market, the Honda NT1100 Police comes equipped with features such as protective bodywork, an adjustable windscreen, a comfortable seat, and LED lighting systems.

The NT1100 Police can also be outfitted with a variety of accessories specifically designed for police work, available through authorized vendors.

Among these accessories are pannier bags, a special wiring system, document storage boxes, and a rear seat cover.

The Honda NT1100 Police is powered by a 1,084 cc parallel-twin engine, the same as that used in the Africa Twin model, but has been modified to reach speeds of up to 200 km/h.

The engine produces 101 hp at 8,500 rpm and 104 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm, which is transmitted to the rear wheel via a six-speed manual transmission.

The suspension system consists of 43 mm inverted Showa telescopic forks, complemented by a single Pro-Link Showa shock absorber, each offering a wheel travel distance of 139.7 mm.

For stopping power, the bike features dual-piston calipers and 310 mm twin rotors at the front, along with a single-piston caliper and 256 mm rotor at the rear, supported by a two-channel ABS braking system.

Weighing in at approximately 256.7 kg, the NT1100 Police has a fuel tank capacity of 20.4 liters and a seat height of about 820 mm.

Honda and Nissan initiate merger talks; will Mitsubishi join?

Honda Motor Co. and Nissan Motor Co. have confirmed in a statement that discussions are ongoing to establish a new company, which is expected to be finalized by 2026.

According to a report by Mainichi JP, this move is seen as a way to create the world’s third-largest automotive group, behind Toyota and Volkswagen, to compete against American and Chinese manufacturers in the electric vehicle segment.

Honda and Nissan, the second and third largest manufacturers in Japan, aim to finalize the discussions by June.

Meanwhile, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation will decide by the end of January 2025 whether to join the new company or not.

In an effort to become more competitive in the market, Honda and Nissan have agreed to collaborate on research and development (R&D), standardize vehicle platforms, and share components across various product segments, in addition to optimizing existing production systems and facilities.

Honda develops new generation hybrid engines

Due to a slowdown in global demand for electric vehicles (EVs), Honda has decided to refocus its efforts on the production of hybrid engines.

Recently, Honda has reportedly been developing several new generation e:HEV technologies for use in upcoming electric hybrid vehicles.

 

1. New 1.5L & 2.0L Engines

Both the new 1.5-liter and 2.0-liter Atkinson cycle engines will be paired with a front-wheel drive unit and integrated cooling system in a more compact package.

Honda aims for the new engine’s fuel consumption to be 10 percent more efficient when combined with a new generation midsize platform currently under development.

By extending the RPM range where the engine operates most efficiently, the new 1.5-liter engine can achieve fuel savings that are 40 percent better compared to the existing 1.5L engine.

Both engines will share the same hybrid components to reduce manufacturing costs.

 

2. New Mid-size Platform

In addition to the e:HEV system, Honda will also be refreshing its midsize platform for their electric hybrid vehicles.

This modular platform promises high chassis stability, sporty driving dynamics, and an overall weight that is 10 percent lighter compared to existing e:HEV models.

Additionally, Honda aims to develop the lightest platform in its class, reducing weight by 90 kg compared to the existing platform through a new design approach.

Achieving over 60 percent commonality across all midsize models will contribute to more efficient and cost-effective production of various models.

 

3. Honda S+ Shift

Honda S+ Shift is a new function introduced to enhance the driving pleasure and amplifies the sense of oneness between the driver and the vehicle.

According to Honda, S+ Shift precisely controls engine RPM during acceleration and deceleration to realize direct driving response and accurate gear shifting.

The resulting engine sound will be synchronized with the Active Sound Control (ASC) system, where the sound quality will be enhanced through speakers to further enrich the exciting driving experience.

 

4. Electric AWD System

Starting with the new generation e:HEV models, Honda will employ an electric all-wheel drive (AWD) system (E-AWD).

Compared to mechanical AWD systems, E-AWD can increase maximum traction and contribute to more powerful initial acceleration performance.

The E-AWD system can also optimize the distribution of front-to-rear driving energy based on tire-ground contact during acceleration, deceleration, and cornering.

Interestingly, the e-AWD system can also be shared with any EV.

With this new technology, Honda is determined to reduce production costs for each electric hybrid model by up to 50 percent for the 2027 model year, compared to similar models launched in 2018.

2026 Honda Prelude: more than just a Civic coupe

Honda has previously confirmed that the upcoming concept model Prelude will be built using the existing Civic platform.

Now, there is good news coming from Japan, where a group of Japanese media representatives were given the opportunity to test a pre-production prototype unit on a test circuit.

This test drive session revealed several interesting details to share with readers, especially for those who got a closer look at the model during the KLIMS 2024 event held last few weeks.

The prototype model, still heavily camouflaged, showed few significant differences, apart from the presence of ADAS sensors and more practical-sized side mirrors.

Here are the new features expected to appear on the Honda Prelude 2026:

 

1. New generation hybrid system

Interestingly, the Honda Prelude will be the first model equipped with a new generation dual-motor hybrid system.

No further details have been announced at this time, but Honda claims that this new setup promises a 10 percent efficiency improvement over the existing e:HEV system without compromising power.

It is highly likely that the Prelude will feature an all-new 2.0-liter Atkinson cycle engine paired with a new, more compact, and efficient electric drive unit.

Typical for a hybrid car, you can expect the Prelude to come with a simpler e-CVT transmission, but it will also include a new feature dubbed S+ Shift.

 

2. Honda S+ Shift system

source: LOVECARS!TV! YouTube

Set to be included in all future e:HEV Honda models, the S+ Shift system promises a more dynamic and exciting driving experience.

By pressing a special button, it will simulate gear shifting through small vibrations when downshifting, thanks to altered torque mapping in the electric drive unit.

The Active Sound Control feature will enhance the sporty engine sound through audio feedback provided by the speaker unit, synchronized with the RPM display on the digital cluster.

The Honda Prelude 2026 is also equipped with paddle shifters, allowing drivers to experience simulated gear changes in a hybrid vehicle.

 

3. Civic platform

source: LOVECARS!TV! YouTube

As previously announced, the Honda Prelude will utilize the existing Civic platform but with a stiffer chassis, improved steering stability, and, most importantly, 10 percent less weight.

Unlike the Civic, the Prelude has a shorter wheelbase but a wider track width.

The suspension system has also been recalibrated for a sportier and more comfortable ride akin to a GT.

The YouTube channel Ride Now reports that the Prelude will feature an adaptive suspension system and a dual-axis steering system from the Civic Type R, designed to reduce torque steer effects.

 

4. Interior space

source: LOVECARS!TV! YouTube

Stepping inside the cabin, you will notice a dashboard layout that closely resembles that of the current Civic model, but it has been refined with a taller center console design, featuring new control buttons for gear shifting, as well as the S+ Shift button.

For the driver and front passenger, the Prelude offers sporty bucket seats, complete with contrasting white and blue stitching.

The coupe design with a lower roofline and shorter wheelbase makes the headroom and legroom in the Prelude seem smaller and more cramped compared to the Honda Civic, especially for rear passengers.

 

5. What do Japanese media say?

Overall, the feedback received from the test drive session conducted in Japan is quite positive.

Some claimed that the Prelude promises a sportier drive compared to the Civic (hopefully not just the Civic Type R), while remaining smooth and comfortable like a GT.

One test driver mentioned that the steering and adaptive suspension setup of the Prelude reminded him of the Civic Type R.

Another media outlet revealed that the Prelude offers smooth and linear stopping power, thanks to Brembo brake systems behind the 19-inch black rims and Continental Premium Contact 6 tires.

This all-new Honda Prelude is set to be launched in 2025 and will serve as a replacement for the discontinued Civic and Accord coupe models.

We expect the Prelude 2026 to make its official debut at the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon, scheduled for January 10-12 next year.

Honda Malaysia unveils e:N1 Model at 2024 KLIMS, set for launch in 2025?

At KLIMS 2024, Honda Malaysia not only showcased the concept coupe model, Honda Prelude, but also unveiled an electric SUV – the Honda e:N1.

Despite sharing a similar appearance to the Honda HR-V, the e:N1 utilizes the e:N Architecture F platform, which offers a more rigid body structure, a lower center of gravity, and a more aerodynamic underbody.

It is powered by a front-wheel-drive electric motor that delivers 201 hp and 310 Nm of torque, paired with a 68.8 kWh battery pack.

With a full charge, the e:N1 can travel up to 412 km.

What sets the e:N1 apart from the standard HR-V is the presence of a charging port that replaces the front grille structure, along with the words “Honda” displayed in a more modern font at the rear.

The layout of the e:N1’s cabin also appears quite different from the HR-V, featuring a 15-inch central screen, a 10.25-inch digital cluster screen, and support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

At this time, Honda Malaysia has not officially revealed the detailed specifications for the e:N1 in the local market.

However, it is expected to be the first electric vehicle officially brought into the country by Honda Malaysia, with its launch scheduled for next year (2025).

For your information, Honda has already started production of the Honda e:N1 electric SUV at the Rojana Industrial Park in Prachinburi Province, Thailand by the end of 2023.

The real question is, what will be the selling price set by Honda Malaysia for the e:N1 model? Currently, the Honda HR-V e:HEV variant available in the Malaysian market is priced at RM140,800.

Honda e:Ny1 (UK)

Gallery: Honda Prelude Concept at 2024 KLIMS

At KLIMS 2024, the all-red Honda Prelude Concept made its debut in Asia, outside of Japan.

For those who may not know, particularly the younger generation, the iconic name Prelude has already existed through five generations since its inception in 1978, before its production ended in 2001.

After a long period of silence, Honda surprised everyone by showcasing the Prelude concept model at the Japan Mobility Show 2023.

The Honda Prelude Concept has been confirmed to enter production in 2025-2026, aiming to replace the coupe models from the Civic and Accord families.

For the full news regarding the Honda Prelude, you can read more at the link below:

Honda Prelude confirmed for UK, hybrid sports coupe utilizing the Civic platform

Honda Prelude Concept (Official)

Honda RS150R now available in White Trico, priced at RM8,379

Boon Siew Honda has announced the return of the White Trico color option for the Honda RS150R underbone motorcycle, alongside two other attractive colors: Matte Blue and Silver.

With this latest update, the selling price of the Honda RS150R now starts at RM8,379 on the road, excluding insurance—an increase of RM80 compared to the previous offering.

As usual, the mechanical aspects of this motorcycle remain unchanged.

This means that the RS150R retains its 149.2 cc single-cylinder engine, capable of generating 15.8 hp at 9,000 rpm and 13.6 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm.

The suspension system consists of telescopic forks at the front, followed by a single shock absorber at the rear, while the braking system is supported by disc brakes at both the front and rear.

Other features include an LED headlight system, a fuel tank capacity of 4.5 liters, and a digital LCD display.

Honda Prelude Concept to debut at 2024 KLIMS, first appearance in Asia!

Honda Malaysia has confirmed that the hybrid coupe concept model, the Honda Prelude Concept will make its official debut at the Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show (KLIMS) from December 5 to 11.

This makes Malaysia the first country in Asia, after Japan, to showcase this hybrid coupe model.

The Honda Prelude was first revealed at the Japan Mobility Show 2023 and has been announced to enter production by the middle of this decade.

According to various reports, this new generation Honda Prelude will be built on the existing Civic platform and will utilize e:HEV hybrid technology with two electric motors capable of generating up to 208 horsepower.

There are also rumors that Honda engineers will pair the hybrid engine with a six-speed manual transmission featuring rev-matching functionality from the Civic RS.

Regardless of the speculation circulating online, it is certain that the production version of the Honda Prelude will officially debut in the second half of 2025, starting with the European market.

Honda says the 2026 Passport is its most off-road capable SUV ever

Honda may not be the first brand that springs to mind when discussing off-road vehicles, but the company is hoping to change it with the all-new fourth-generation Passport.

Much like its predecessors, the Passport will be exclusively available in the North American market. For the 2026 model year, it will be offered in three distinct variants, RTL, TrailSport, and TrailSport Elite, with prices starting from the mid-$40,000s (approximately RM178,708).

Each variant boasts a unique appearance. The RTL features sleek black trim and grille, a roof spoiler, and a silver skid garnish front and rear. It rides on 18-inch Gloss Shark Gray wheels fitted with 265/60 R18 all-season tyres.

In contrast, the TrailSport and TrailSport Elite present a more rugged aesthetic, equipped with exclusive off-road hardware such as bright orange heavy-duty recovery hooks, thick steel skid plates, and General Grabber all-terrain tyres in a size of 275/60 R18.

When compared to the third-generation model, the new Passport’s wheelbase has been extended (+2.75 inches) for better ride comfort, alongside wider tracks (+1.3 inches at the front and +1.5 inches at the rear) that contribute to improve cornering stability.

What’s particularly noteworthy is the matte black finish of the rear roof section, which is there to enable owners to lean skis, fishing poles and other equipment without fretting over scratches or damage.

Inside, Honda describes the Passport as perfectly suited for both daily routines and weekend adventures. The RTL variant features luxurious leather upholstery, while the TrailSport variants come with easy-to-clean synthetic leather.

Honda claims the 2026 Passport has the most cargo room in the model’s history, boasting up to 83.5 cubic feet behind the first row and 44 cubic feet behind the second row, which includes a larger redesigned underfloor storage area.

The cargo area is also offers plenty of space for those who enjoy the great outdoors, accommodating full-sized golf bags laid sideways, a large stroller, or two adult mountain bikes (with front wheels removed) when the rear seats are fully folded down.

On the equipment front, the Passport includes a 10.2-inch digital instrument panel and a 12.3-inch touchscreen—54% larger than its predecessor—featuring Google integration, as well as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

Under the hood, the Passport is powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine that delivers 285 hp and 355 Nm of torque, representing a 5 hp increase over earlier models. Power is directed to the wheels through a newly fine-tuned 10-speed automatic transmission specifically calibrated for the Passport.

Moreover, this SUV is equipped with the second-generation torque vectoring i-VTM4 all-wheel drive system, capable of handling 40% more torque and providing 30% faster response. This results in optimised traction across various driving scenarios.

Also enhanced is the suspension system, now featuring stronger forged steel suspension arms and cast-iron knuckles, alongside retuned MacPherson and multilink struts for a more confident handling feel. The steering ratio has also been recalibrated to provide quicker response.

2025 Honda Amaze design unveiled, official launch next month

The constraints of size have resulted in a limited number of appealing and well-balanced A-segment sedan models in the global market.

Honda appears to be challenging this skeptical view with the design images of the all-new third-generation Amaze 2025.

Essentially, the Honda Amaze 2025 is a third generation compact sedan measuring under four meters in length and is set to be officially launched on December 4.

It features a front design inspired by the HR-V SUV, complemented by a rear section from the City sedan, while the cabin offers a more streamlined layout reminiscent of the Civic.

The Amaze cabin is likely to incorporate similar features as those found in the Honda Elevate, including a 10.25-inch touchscreen, support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, digital air conditioning controls, and rectangular air vents.

The Honda Amaze is expected to maintain its use of a 1.2-liter inline four-cylinder engine delivering 90 PS and 110 Nm, or an option for the 1.5-liter i-DTEC diesel engine producing 100 PS and 200 Nm, which can be paired with either a manual or CVT gearbox.

Upon its official launch, the Honda Amaze 2025 is expected to compete with the Maruti Suzuki Dzire, Hyundai Aura, and Tata Tigor.

Honda Malaysia recalls 36,000 units of Civic, Civic Type R and CR-V over steering issue

Honda Malaysia has announced a proactive product update involving approximately 36,000 units of the Civic, Civic Type R, and CR-V.

According to the company, the activity is to update the Electric Power Steering (EPS) gearbox. The EPS gearbox worm wheel may swell and reduce grease film thickness, causing abnormal steering noise or sticky steering.

The models involved include Civic Year Model 2022-2024, Civic Type R Year Model 2023-2024, and CR-V Year Model 2024.

Honda Malaysia said it apologises for the inconvenience caused to affected customers and reassures that other current production and selling models are not affected in this product update.

“The company believes this proactive product update is necessary as customer safety is Honda Malaysia’s top priority,” it said in a statement.

All affected customers will be informed via notification letters, which will include details of the product update.

Honda Malaysia urges all customers involved in this update to contact any Honda authorised dealer to make an appointment upon receiving the notification, to have their vehicles inspected and/or repaired if required.

Honda Malaysia will bear the cost of inspection, repair or replacement of the affected parts in this activity. The replacement stock will be available in stages starting from December 2024.

Honda Super Cub 50 Final Edition: Farewell to an iconic affordable motorcycle!

Honda has officially announced the discontinuation of the Super Cub 50 cc model due to the implementation of stricter emission regulations.

To celebrate this milestone, Honda has launched the Super Cub 50 Final Edition, featuring classic colors of white and Bonnie Blue inspired by the original Super Cub.

The Super Cub 50 Final Edition also boasts a two-tone solo seat, a special “Honda 50 Final Edition” emblem, a classic instrument cluster, a rear rack, and a uniquely designed key.

For the Japanese market, the Super Cub 50 comes equipped with a 49 cc engine producing 3.6 hp and 3.8 Nm of torque.

Production of this Final Edition will be limited to just 2,000 units, each priced at ¥270,000 (approximately RM7,743).

In Japan, 50 cc motorcycles have been a key pillar of the transportation system during the post-war economic boom. Due to their affordability and fuel efficiency, they have also remained a popular choice among workers and students.

In addition to stricter emission laws, the rising popularity of e-bikes and electric scooters has contributed to a decline in sales of these small-displacement motorcycles.

Honda’s future EV will simulate the sound of the iconic models S2000, NSX, and HondaJet!

Driving an electric vehicle (EV) that is too quiet and smooth without any mechanical vibrations may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with an old-school soul.

So, Honda wants to ensure that their EV models to come will have unique driving characteristics and experiences.

During the recent 0 Tech Meeting 2024, Honda demonstrated a simulated driving concept that can mimic the characteristics of the brand’s high-performance iconic models.

Among them are the first generation Honda NSX, the hot hatch Civic Type R, the roadster S2000, the F1 machine, Honda CRX, and not forgetting the HondaJet personal jet!

In addition to displaying instrument panel themes based on the selected vehicles, this Honda e Digital UX Concept system can simulate the engine notes of the aforementioned models.

Fans of the loud VTEC engine roar will definitely not miss the chance to try this feature when it becomes available.

Honda will also use cabin vibration systems to create a driving experience akin to that of internal combustion engine cars.

According to The Drive, aside from the instrument panel themes and engine sound profiles, Honda is also experimenting with offering a more comprehensive experience, including introducing different tuning on the steering wheel, adjusting the pedal mapping, and the suspension system’s height.

Not to be missed, the simulated gear shifting feature using paddle shifters like those found in the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N model.

Steering issue: Honda USA recalls 1.7 million vehicles

In the United States, Honda and Acura are conducting a recall campaign involving a total of 1,693,199 vehicle units, according to Automotive News.

Based on information from the NHTSA agency, there is a problem with the installation process of steering components, resulting in excessive internal friction. This condition can cause some owners to have difficulty in controlling their vehicles.

Honda suspects that the steering rack issue only involves one percent of the vehicles, or around 17,000 units out of the total number recalled.

The steering problem was first detected in September 2021, and since then, Honda has received a total of 10,328 warranty claims.

The NHTSA agency has also received 13 reports of accidents related to the steering issue, including 11 cases filed by drivers who were unable to control their vehicles properly. Fortunately, no injury incidents have been reported.

Affected models include the Acura Integra (model years 2023-2025), Honda Civic (2023-2025, including hybrid models), Honda Civic Type R (2023-2025), Honda CR-V (2023-2025, including the 2025 CR-V FCEV), and Honda HR-V (2023-2025).

Honda USA plans to replace the worm gear spring component with a new one, and add grease to reduce friction on each recalled vehicle at no additional cost.

Boon Siew launches limited-time campaign, buy RS-X and get RM300 TnG e-wallet credit!

Boon Siew Honda has announced a limited-time campaign for enthusiasts of the popular Honda RS-X motorcycle.

Starting from the 7th to the 31st of October, customers who purchase a Honda RS-X will receive RM300 worth of Touch ‘n Go e-wallet credit.

The TnG e-wallet credit can be used to purchase fuel, allowing RS-X owners to enjoy journeys of over 7,000 km.

To qualify for the mentioned benefits, customers only need to register their motorcycles during the campaign period and then proceed to the Honda X  to receive the RM300 e-wallet credit directly.

The Honda RS-X is still powered by a 149cc single-cylinder engine capable of producing 15.8 hp and 13.6 Nm of torque, paired with a six-speed gearbox.

In addition to being recognized as an Energy Efficient Vehicle (EEV), the Honda RS-X has also achieved a five-star rating in MyMAP for its standard single-channel ABS feature.

The recommended retail price starts from RM9,798.

Honda N-BOX still remains the best-selling car in Japan

Despite Honda’s overall sales figures being difficult to surpass those of the Japanese giant Toyota, at the very least, Honda has managed to prove that it can be the best-selling model there.

The model in question is the Honda N-BOX kei car.

Yes, this boxy car is not only popular among kei car enthusiasts here, but it also holds a significant name and can outshine its competitors.

According to a report from Response JP, the Honda N-BOX recorded sales of 102,226 units during the first half of the fiscal year 2024 (April-September), marking an increase of 1.8 percent compared to the same period last year.

This makes the Honda N-BOX the best-selling car for the third consecutive year!

The second place is held by the kei car Suzuki Spacia (80,179 units), followed by the Toyota Corolla (77,030 units), and the Toyota Yaris (73,052 units).

Impacted by the safety scandal issue, the popular car Daihatsu Tanto dropped three ranks to sixth place, with sales of 53,177 units, marking a decrease of 26.3 percent.

An interesting point coming from the Land of the Rising Sun is the rather slow transition rate to EVs, where EVs only make up 1.3 percent of new vehicle sales, marking a decrease of 0.6 percent.

2026 Honda Prelude will pair a 2.0L hybrid engine with a manual gearbox!

The hot hatch Civic Type R FL5 appears to not be the last Honda sports model equipped with a manual transmission.

This is because in the latest news emerging from the Land of the Rising Sun, Honda is reported to offer the Prelude with a combination of a hybrid powertrain unit and a manual transmission.


According to sources quoted by Best Car, Honda engineers will match a 2.0-liter hybrid engine borrowed from the Accord model with a six-speed manual gearbox derived from the Civic RS.

It is also said to have the same rev-match function found in the Civic Type R model!

If this news indeed becomes a reality, the Honda Prelude will become Honda’s first hybrid model paired with a manual gearbox after the end of production of the CR-Z hybrid model in 2016.


In the Accord e:HEV model, the 2.0-liter Atkinson cycle hybrid engine is capable of generating up to 204 hp and 335 Nm of torque, channeled to the wheels through an e-CVT transmission.

The Honda Prelude is said to be based on the Honda Civic, with a wheelbase of 2,735 mm remaining constant but the overall length being only about 2,480 mm, shorter than the Civic.

This Honda Prelude will make its official debut in the second half of 2025.

3 things that are not cool about the Honda WR-V RS

The HONDA WR-V is not a new model, it has been in the Malaysian market for almost two years. It serves as the replacement for the Honda BR-V, although it is not in the same segment.

However, from the Honda Malaysia lineup, after the absence of the 7-seater crossover/MPV BR-V, this slot is now filled by the compact 5-seater WR-V.

This also positions Honda as a competitor to the Perodua Ativa. We have previously test-driven the WR-V RS, but this article focuses on listing the things we didn’t quite like about it. Let’s look at the three main aspects that are not quite right about the WR-V RS.

1. Cabin lacks excitement

At first glance, the exterior of the Honda WR-V looks sporty and premium, especially the RS variant. But upon entering, there is a slight sense of disappointment. For some reason, the cabin feels somewhat ’empty.’

Upon closer inspection, it’s actually decent for its price. Perhaps the writer was carried away by the exterior beauty, hence having high expectations for the interior.

There is a lot of hard plastic on the dashboard and door panels, but there are black gloss and red elements with soft leather wrapping on the left side of the dashboard, adding some flair to the interior. The WR-V’s cabin is on par with the City albeit not entirely similar.

When compared, the HR-V’s cabin has a more ‘wow’ factor, similar to the Civic. But then again, the price difference is significant.

2. Driving experience doesn’t match the RS name

What comes to mind when you see the RS badge on a car? Racing? Sporty? Yes, the writer thought the same. However, the driving experience of the Honda WR-V doesn’t reflect the RS badge it wears.

The writer wasn’t expecting a Civic Type R level of performance, but perhaps tweaking the suspension and steering for more precision and agility could help.

Or maybe the meaning of RS for Honda Malaysia differs for the WR-V, not towards motorsports… Judging by the appearance and packaging, it can be considered in line with the RS name. Furthermore, we understand the target audience for this WR-V RS – more towards small families looking for a practical and comfortable vehicle, with added sporty elements and image.

The 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine delivers 119hp and 145Nm of torque, more than sufficient for daily use. The CVT gearbox is efficient and responsive, still among the best in its segment. The combination of the 1.5 i-VTEC engine with CVT provides good fuel efficiency, around 13.5km per liter based on the writer’s test.

3. El-cheapo infotainment screen

The third and final point is the infotainment screen of the Honda WR-V RS, which seems cost-effective. For some reason, considering the price range between RM89,999 to RM107,900 for the RS, the screen should possess better resolution and display.

The writer is unsure of what exactly needs improvement, as they are not an engineer in this field. But it feels like there’s a lack of value here. For instance, the reverse display is just sufficient, only showing static lines for guidance. There are no issues regarding the size of the screen, it can be considered adequate.

The features are also good, coming with Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity, two USB ports, and a range of Honda Sensing safety features. Alright, those are the three main things about the Honda WR-V RS.

Listing more dislikes might upset the Honda enthusiasts here. On another note, there are many other excellent things about the WR-V, such as the spacious cabin for this segment and the fairly comprehensive safety features.

The package on the WR-V demonstrates that Honda Malaysia truly understands the market and its needs. You can read our complete test drive report here.

2025 Honda Civic Si, sportier chassis, manual transmission with improved rev-match function!

Honda North America has updated the offerings for the 2025 Civic Si variant, showcasing some cosmetic changes, a sportier chassis, and most importantly, retaining the manual transmission option!

It may be seen as an alternative to the more expensive Civic Type R, but unfortunately, the selling price of the Civic Si has increased by
$850 (RM3,972) to $29,950 (RM140k).

In terms of power, the 2025 Civic Si still retains the heartbeat of a 1.5-liter inline-four engine producing around 200 hp and 260 Nm, driving the front wheels as usual.

 

 

Certainly, the handling aspect of this ‘budget Civic Type R’ has been enhanced, now featuring a stiffer chassis including new B-pillars and door sill support.

Suspension damping components have also been recalibrated, with Honda promising improvements in terms of torsional rigidity and flexibility.

For those seeking more driving enjoyment, Honda has also enhanced the rev-match function, especially when shifting from second to first gear.

 

 

Cosmetically, what the 2025 Civic Si brings is essentially the same as the existing facelifted 2025 Civic.

However, the Civic Si has been given a set of twin-spoke black alloy wheels for a sportier look.

The cabin also receives a 9-inch infotainment display now supporting Google Assistant, along with standard support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.

For the 10.2-inch digital cluster screen, exclusive graphics are available for the Civic Si model including a digital tachometer, gear change light indicator, boost gauge, and G-force meter.

 

 

Finally, the 2025 Civic Si comes equipped with a pair of snug sports seats for the driver and front passenger, in addition to standard built-in heating function.

On a less joyful note, since its introduction in 1984, the Honda Civic Si has remained an exclusive model for certain market such as United States (and Japan for a brief period), unlike the broader market reach of the Civic Type R.