Honda Malaysia recently hosted an 8-model test drive, aptly themed "Driving Honda's DNA", in Sepang International Circuit for the local media. Aimed at reacquainting the media with its renowned i-VTEC engine and advanced safety technology, the 8-model test drive took place in four different stages namely On Track, Slalom Challenge, Wet Track and Skid Control.
Thrilled by the adrenaline pumping actions on the test tracks, all media were delighted by the opportunity given to them to push all 8 models to their limits on and off tracks.
At the end of the test drive, all media were pleased to learn that all Honda makes are made to deliver Performance, Practicality and Style, which is also the singular DNA in the heart of the brand.
Pictures below with their respective captions would walk you through the excitement during the adrenaline-pumping event and after.
Mr. Toru Takahashi, MD & CEO of HMSB welcoming the media during his opening speech
Driving The Honda's DNA-An Experiential Media Test Drive at SIC
Eugene Phua from FHM was all ears at the briefing session
Mr. Takahashi sharing a light moment with the media during lunch
Special guest, 10-time rally champion, Karamjit Singh (Centre) sharing his experience with the media
Mr. Toru Takahashi flagged off the start of the test drive
En. Rohime Shafie joined Mr. Takahashi in jump-starting the inaugural test drive
ON TRACK
On Track – Particularly set up to showcase the high speed performance, stability, handling of City, Civic Type R, Civic and Accord.
Offering best-in-class performance, City proved to be an impressive drive on the 2.7KM North Track
Literally born on the track, Civic Type R is one of the most coveted drives available in the market
Accord, a sophisticated drive that comes with uncompromised high-speed performance
Civic, the epitome of the fast and furious
Johardy Ibrahim from Utusan all geared up for his fun time with Civic Type R on track
SLALOM CHALLENGE
Slalom Challenge was made up of an obstacle course that tested the agility and handling of CR-V in tight and narrow lanes. The objective of the course was to showcase the sedan-like driving of the stylish SUV. Media were timed during their test drives and drivers with the top 10 fastest lap time walk away with lucrative prizes!
Media experienced maneuverability and the true sedan-like driving CR-V
Besides its elegance and spaciousness, the CR-V proved to be a fun drive despite its size
WET TRACK
Wet Track was set up to test the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) in Accord 2.4 and Stream RSZ. Sprinkled with water, the test track simulated an extremely wet and slippery driving condition. During the test, media were driving at a speed between 40kmph and 60kmph, where ABS and VSA are important to allow the driver maintain vehicle control in such unpredictable road condition.
Wet Wet Land Media & HMSB Associates checking out the Wet Track in SIC
Stream were able to stay on course with its in-built VSA and ABS despite the slippery road condition.
Accord 2.4 on the Wet Track
SKID CONTROL
Skid Control track was designed primarily for media to learn the life-saving technique - opposite steering lock, when a vehicle skids during poor weather condition.
Accord was used as one of the demo vehicles
Jazz, one of the demo vehicles, which also proved to be a stable drive even during a skid
SPECIAL PERFORMANCE BY KARAMJIT SINGH
10-time rally champion, Karamjit Singh showcased the maximum capability of Honda makes in a few stunts.
10-time rally champion, Karamjit Singh showcased the maximum capability of Honda makes in a few stunts.
AFTERPARTY
After half day of fun and thrill on and off track, all media unwound and relaxed at a party specially hosted for them. The evening unfolded with more fun and laughter as the prize giving ceremony took place, followed by a series of lucky draws.
A pleasant dinner awaits
Media members together HMSB personnel sharing a pleasant evening during the afterparty
A toast for a fun and thrilling event
Slalom Champion winner William Tan from www.wheelersgate.com who clocked 28.25s
First runner up Dinesh Appavu from www.traffcmagonline.com with 28.78s
Second Runner Up Keshy Dhillon from www.zerotohundred.com with 28.82s
Here are what some of the media have to say:
“This is a good way for us to explore the car’s performance. We do not get to test the car this way (on the Wet Track) on the open road,” Hong Boon How, Star Motoring.
“It was a great experience where we get to refresh our driving skills and technique in the various courses. The test drive experience also refreshed our knowledge about Honda cars,” Mr. Yew Hong Chin, Kwong Wah Yit Poh.
“The overall event is better than expected as it was my first time attending a test drive organised by Honda Malaysia. Overall, the Track was fun as it tested our driving skills. And all the cars performed well in the different courses. Generally, the event was fun and it helped me to know the cars better.,” Faiz Al-Shahab, Fleet Auto
“Besides the fact that we didn’t spend enough time with the Type R on the track, in overall, it was a well done event. Good timing. The event also helped the media to understand Honda’s technology better, especially the VSA and the braking test. In the Skid Control, I refreshed my driving technique,” Justin Toh, SHIFT.
“I personally liked the On Track drive. It helped me to improve my knowledge about Honda’s products. This kind of test drive helps us to improve our knowledge about Honda cars. The event was done in good timing as well,”Ahmad Salihin, Berita Harian Auto.