The record 2018 was led by all-time best full year sales from both the Ranger pickup truck and Everest mid-size SUV, the company said.

“The success of the Ranger and Everest continued to drive our performance and progress in 2018,” said Wichit Wongwatthanakan, managing director, Ford Thailand. “The launch of both the new Ranger and new Everest mid-year helped to raise the bar even further in their respective segments, and further widen their appeal in the market.”

Sales of the segment-defining Ranger in 2018 rose 25 per cent year-over-year to a record 55,389 vehicles.

The Ranger’s extraordinary year helped it continue to gain segment share, adding 0.2 percentage points from the previous year to 12.4 per cent, and remained firmly number three in Thailand’s highly competitive pickup truck segment, the company said.

The new Ranger features the 2.0L Bi-Turbo and 2.0L Single Turbo engines, as well as the proven Duratorq engine, helping bolster its wide appeal among Thai customers.

The full lineup in Thailand consists of 20 different Ranger models, including the Wildtrak, XLT, XLS and XL variants, and the new ‘Limited’, or LTD, variant. It also includes the Ranger Raptor, Asia Pacific’s first and only high-speed, off-road performance pickup truck.

“The ‘Built Ford Tough’ Ranger continues to revolutionise the pickup truck segment,” said Wichit.

The Everest also delivered a record performance in 2018 with sales growing 19 per cent to 9,756 vehicles, helping drive its segment share up 1.3 percentage points from the previous year to 15.1 per cent.

Designed to redefine expectations for a mid-sized SUV, the Everest continues to gain in popularity with its bold design, refined interior and off-road capabilities with on-road comfort. A wide range of advanced driver-assist technologies help make the Everest one of the smartest and safest vehicles in its segment.

Ford continued to enhance its overall Ford customer and ownership experience in 2018 with the launch of the Ford Authorised Distributors initiative. Complementing Ford’s nationwide network of 155 authorised dealerships, this added more than 2,000 approved parts resellers, auto garages, and body shops to the company’s network, helping bolster its ability to get genuine Ford parts to customers wherever they choose to have their vehicles serviced across the country, the company said.

After a slump in auto sales over the past several years, Thailand’s auto industry is once again expanding with more than 1 million vehicles sold domestically in 2018.

The 20-percent jump in auto sales has been attributed to political stability and a steady flow of new models accompanied by attractive sales campaigns all year round.

All segments in the market enjoyed strong growth, whether passenger cars or commercial vehicles (pickup trucks included). Even the luxury car market blossomed, with market leaders like Mercedes-Benz and BMW each selling over 12,000 vehicles during the past year.

Thailand remains an important production and export hub for automobiles, each year churning out over 2 million passenger cars, 1-tonne pickup trucks as well as other types of vehicles from various assembly plants located around the country.

For export, eco cars and pickups are the major “bread-and-butter” models from Thailand, along with a large number of motorcycles and parts. More than a million automobiles are exported yearly from Thailand to over 130 countries. Thailand boasts an auto production capacity of 3 million units, which is expected to grow to 3.5 million within 2020.

While the nation may not offer the lowest labour cost structure in the region, it has a large number of highly trained skilled workers and a strong network of over 2,000 parts suppliers.

Thailand is looking into producing high-technology products such as BEVs (Battery Electric Vehicles) in the near future, but the plan requires time to get various infrastructure up and running.

The Thai Ministry of Industry is moving forward with its electrification policy (PHEV or BEV) for pickup trucks and eco cars. The ministry recently announced investment promotions for this project, and several automakers have decided to enter.

The second step involves production of EV components, with plans to upgrade the eco car (75 per cent of the 100,000-unit annual production per brand is exported) to eco-EVs with electric motors. Production of electric buses and three-wheelers are also planned.

Brands that filed for hybrid production privileges include BMW, Honda, Nissan, Mercedes-Benz and Toyota.

BMW and Mercedes-Benz are already offering PHEVs (Plugin Hybrid Electric Vehicles) in their Thai product lineup, and are busy building battery production facilities and charging infrastructure in Thailand. In September last year Mercedes-Benz launched its first EV in a global event in Stockholm, and could decide to offer it here in the future. Audi is also interested in joining the EV race, and has hinted that it wants to offer EV products in Thailand.

Nissan, meanwhile, is the first major Japanese auto company to jump into the EV craze. It recently introduced the LEAF EV, which is priced at Bt1.99 million and targeted at upmarket buyers. The LEAF is capable of covering 400 kilometres on a single charge.

For the general public though, internal combustion engines are still the affordable answer. Consumers in 2019 will be looking for higher efficiency and performance, larger interiors, along with a long list of add-on features.

Meanwhile, infotainment has become an important part of the modern automobile. Apart from playing music and giving online access, the portals are now connected to the navigation system and can serve as a personal secretary to the driver, communicating via voice recognition systems.

AUTO  sales returned to the 1-million-unit mark in 2018 and this is partly due to more attractive products as well as more attractive sales promotions being offered all year round.

It was a year that witnessed new models coming with improvements in performance, fuel economy, safety and technology, giving customers a more complete experience.

Here are the most impressive vehicles I drove in 2018.

BMW 320d

The new 3 Series will be on sale in Thailand this year, but I had driven it at the global event in Portugal in December and must say that this is another winner from BMW.

The 320d comes with a twin-turbo 2.0-litre common-rail diesel motor capable of producing 190hp and 400Nm. It comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission, and does the 0-100kph in 6.8 seconds, and yes, the top speed is 250kph as well. What’s more is that the average fuel economy is claimed at 23km per litre.

It provides great driving dynamics that you’d expect from a 3 Series. There is plenty of cornering grip and the steering provides excellent precision and feedback.

The exterior design still looks good, although in terms of size, the 3 Series have grown much over the years. There are loads of high-tech features too, such as the BMW Personal Assistant which is like Siri on wheels.

Audi A4 Avant TFSI S-line quattro

Audi is making a strong comeback in the Thai luxury car market and is offering a wide range of models, all imported as it does not have an assembly facility here.

Imported vehicles are expensive due to the high import duty, but the German auto maker makes sure that’s not a problem by offering prices that are similar to locally assembled models of rival brands.

The A4 Avant, priced at Bt3.249 million, is a sleek-looking wagon that in my opinion looks better than the sedan version, something that doesn’t happen often.

The turbocharged 2.0-litre engine pumps out 252hp and 370Nm, and with a smooth-shifting

7-speed dual clutch transmission, is capable of propelling the A4 Avant from 0-100kph in just 6 seconds and to a top speed of 250kph.

Ford Ranger Raptor

Due to the success from the F-150 Raptor in America, Ford has decided to apply the same treatment to its popular Ranger pickup. The result is explosive success.

Priced at Bt1.699 million, it’s the most expensive

1-ton pickup on sale in Thailand, but there’s a whole bunch of changes that pretty much justify the cost.

With its cross-country looks, the Raptor is an attention-grabber. It is powered by a new twin-turbo 2.0-litre engine with 213hp and 500Nm. There are six  driving modes, and it comes with revised suspension that includes FOX shock absorbers and Watts link setup at the rear.

Inside there is special treatment from the standard Ranger such as Alcantara leather with blue stitching, Raptor steering wheel and sports instrument panel.

Suzuki Swift

The Swift has been one of the top-selling eco cars in Thailand and the new model comes with so many improvements that put it in another class altogether.

The new model is wider and has a longer wheelbase that instantly gives it more stability on the road, despite being slight shorter in length. There’s also more interior and luggage space too.

The jet air vents inside give a high-quality feel and there’s a 7-inch touchscreen with smart connect.

The 1.2-litre engine produces 83hp and 108Nm (lower than the old model), but the new car is lighter and as a result performance doesn’t suffer much. The claimed average fuel economy is 23.3-km/litre.

The suspension and steering (sporty design with flat bottom) offers sharp response and high-quality damping, and this is where it counts for a sporty hatchback like the Swift.

Toyota C-HR

Winner of this year’s Thailand Car of the Year award, the C-HR is a revolutionary crossover from Toyota.

Posing a futuristic design, the C-HR stands out in the crowd with a funky appearance. The interior is modern and refreshing, although the materials may not be top-notch.

The good point is that there are hybrid and

1.8-litre models to choose from, and although the fuel economy of the former is pretty good (24.4km/litre), the latter is 70kg lighter and feels more balanced in driving dynamics. At Bt1.039 million, it’s also Bt120,000 cheaper than its hybrid sibling.

You get smart entry, auto brake hold, sport and eco engine mode, seven airbags, cruise control, DVD player with 7-inch touchscreen, and a 4.2-inch colour TFT screen on the dash.

In a press release issued on Friday, the company said the aim is to enhance mechatronics skills as well as laying a stronger foundation for their expertise in electric mobility. The company also handed over other educational essentials, such as a set of technical special tools (for BMW vehicles only), an engine stand and a display board for school public relations.

César Badilla, director of aftersales, BMW Group Thailand, said: “This donation of the latest BMW PHEV engine will allow them to practically study the engine and boost their technical skills prior to job interviews with authorized BMW dealers.

“Working with certified BMW technicians will certainly enrich the students’ experience and help them develop holistic approaches to technical matters, eventually paving the way to their occupational success in automotive industry in the future.”

Dr. Nualanong Thumjaroen, Chitralada Vocational School director said: “This donation of BMW engine and essentials tools for practical training in the class will extend students’ hands-on knowledge beyond the theoretical learning framework.

“This will support the in-class learning experiences and unleash their full potential. After graduation, the student will be able to optimise this holistic knowledge and apply it effectively in their careers.”

The BMW Service Apprentice Program was initiated in 2012 and recognised as part of the German-Thai Dual Excellence Education (GTDEE) programme.

Ekachai Kahakarnbamrung, director of B2C business of Siam Michelin, said: “Starting in January 2019, Michelin’s Laem Chabang plant will also start producing BF Goodrich tyres, particularly the popular all-terrain tyres, for sale in Thailand as well as export to nearby markets such as Africa, Middle East, Asia and Oceania.”

The tyres will also be supplied to automakers such as Ford, GM, Isuzu, Mazda and Toyota.

The BF Goodrich tyres will be sold at Tyreplus outlets and 158 Michelin dealers, he added.

Looking to build brand love and brand advocacy, the campaign is part of Krungsri Auto’s effort to affirm its top-of-mind position in the automotive finance business.

Under the campaign, Krungsri Auto is offering existing customers a chance to redeem special privileges that fit with their preferences and lifestyles, ranging from exclusive experiences at concerts of leading Thai and international artists, well-known restaurants, top hotels and resorts, and first-class cinemas.

Officially launched at the end of October last year, Krungsri Auto “Give” campaign was very well-received, with the overall privileges being redeemed worth more than Bt 7 mIllIon . In 2019, Krungsri Auto plans to select a wider range of privileges to offer the best customer experience that goes beyond automotive finance.

It took Nissan many years, but the Japanese automaker has finally come up with a pickup passenger vehicle (PPV) based on its Navara pickup truck.

The Terra is the latest member in Thailand’s PPV market, which also includes the Toyota Fortuner, Isuzu Mu-X, Ford Everest, Chevrolet Trailblazer and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport. It’s a fast-growing market, with Thai consumers attracted to the SUV-like qualities as well as the generous interior space offered by the concept.

Since the Navara was launched several years ago, I’ve been asking Nissan executives every year about launching a PPV version. But the answer was always no, and I eventually gave up asking.

But then last year Nissan finally introduced the Terra, first in China in April, and then the next month in the Philippines, where the Asean launch was later held. It will also be sold in Indonesia, Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam.

In Thailand, the Terra was officially launched in August, and helped Nissan expand its product portfolio.

The X-Trail SUV, despite being a pretty attractive SUV with a hybrid powertrain available, was not very successful here. The Terra is expected to do a better job at winning customers.

While the X-Trail appeals to city-dwellers who aren’t into genuine heavy off-roading, the frame-based Terra is designed to offer the toughness and capability that would allow it to conquer more adventurous terrain.

The Terra banks on the front design of the Navara with its V-shaped chrome grille/boomerang LED headlamps. It looks pretty intimidating with its large wheel fenders housing the 18-inch alloy wheels wearing 255/60 tires. It also features seven seats, with the second row offering a full-flat folding feature through the One-Touch Remote fold button on the console or manually via the lever.

The Terra is powered by a new twin-turbo 2.3-litre diesel engine with direct fuel injection. The two turbochargers team up to provide quicker torque delivery than the previous 2.5-litre turbo engine (which is still used in the Terra sold in the Philippines and also offering 190hp and 450Nm) and better fuel economy. The Thai version gets 190hp and 450Nm of torque at 1,500-2,500rpm, compared to 2,000rpm for the 2.5-litre unit.

The engine is mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission, with the extra ratio helping maintain an average fuel economy of 13.1km/litre. Still, despite the large amount of torque, don’t expect the Terra to accelerate like a sports car. The first-gear ratio has been tailored for good off-road performance rather than speed, and it’s when the second gear shifts in that you feel the Terra start accelerating more comfortably.

The steering (offering a turning circle of 11.4 metres, is pretty heavy and would be cumbersome for less muscular drivers, especially during parking situations. I felt that it was good exercise for my arms during the week I had the Terra with me.

I borrowed the 2.3VL 4WD version, which came with an electronic rear locking differential and shift-on-the-fly for 2WD and 4WD, plus a low range for demanding off-road conditions like sand or rocks. It has a ground clearance of 225mm (best-in-class) which helps lower the chance of damaging the underbody.

Being the last player to enter the market, the Terra needed to have something that others don’t. Nissan has put in advanced features like the Intelligent Rear View Mirror – basically an LCD screen that solves the problem of rear passengers or luggage blocking the rear view (since the camera is located at the rear of the vehicle). As well, an Intelligent Around View Monitor provides a bird’s eye view from above to make parking the 4.8-metre PPV easy.

There are also Moving Object Detection, Intelligent Blind Sport Intervention (audio and light alerts, no steering wheel vibration) and Intelligent Lane Intervention (70km/h and above). Vehicle Dynamic Control, Traction Control System, Hill Start Assistance and Hill Descent Control are also included in the Terra’s outstanding driver assist package.

Inside the Terra, there are three-point seatbelts for all seven occupants and a total of six airbags. Apart from general information, the dashboard monitor also has an Off-road Meter that tells the driver about the tilt angle. There’s also a Tire Pressure Monitoring system that ensures safety and full tire lifespan.

The entertainment system has a 7-inch touchscreen that also doubles as navigation. There are air vents for all three rows of seats, and cupholders too.

While the 4WD model is priced at Bt1.427 million, those who don’t need 4WD could consider the 2WD versions are priced at Bt1.316 million to Bt1.349 million. By the way, Nissan says pricing of the Terra will be raised by Bt50,000 starting next month, so those who are interested should hurry.

Nissan Terra 2.3 VL 4WD specs

Engine: 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve turbocharged commonrail diesel

Displacement: 2,298cc

Bore and stroke: 85.0×101.3mm

Compression ratio: 15.4:1

Max power: 190ps/3,750rpm

Max torque: 450Nm/1,500-2,500rpm

Transmission: 7-speed automatic

Ratios: 4.886/3.169/2.027/1.411/1.000/0.864/0.774

Final drive ratio: 3.357

0-100 kmh: n/a

Top speed: n/a

Fuel economy (city): 10.7km/litre

Fuel economy (highway): 15.3km/litre

Fuel economy (average): 13.1km/litre

Average CO2: 200g/km

Suspension (f/r): double wishbone/multi-link

Steering: powered rack-and-pinion

Turning circle: 11.4 metres

Brakes (f/r): vented disc/drum

Dimensions (mm)

Length: 4,885

Width: 1,865

Height: 1,835

Wheelbase: 2,850

Track (f/r): n/a

Ground clearance: 225mm

Wheels: 18-in alloys

Tyres: 255/60 R18

Fuel tank capacity: 80 litres

Price: Bt1.427 million

Distributor: Nissan Motor Thailand Co Ltd

In a press release issued on Friday, Peter Galli, Nissan’s vice president for communications in Thailand, said that Nissan’s goal is to help move people to a better world through more electrification, more connectivity and more autonomy through the Nissan Intelligent Mobility concept.

“The new Nissan Leaf EV, which was unveiled in Thailand at the Motor Expo late last month, won’t just transform the way people drive. It will also transform the way they live,” he said.

According to Galli, Nissan Intelligent Mobility is Nissan’s roadmap for the technology and business evolution of the automotive industry, which is making customer lives better by redefining how cars are driven, powered and integrated into society.

Dr. Yossapong Laoonual, president of EVAT, added that the Thai government aims to increase the usage of electric vehicles up to 1.2 million units by the year 2036.

“Relevant agencies including the BOI and government agencies have created a number of incentives to stimulate the growth of electric vehicles as well as recruiting various investors and manufacturers to collaborate on EV projects,” he said.

A press release issued on Thursday by JD Power Thailand – part of the American-based global marketing information services company – said that problems per 100 vehicles (PP100) had dropped to 70 PP100 this year from 83 PP100 in 2017, with the biggest improvement in the exterior and engine/ transmission categories.

The company said that it is noteworthy that the proportion of manufacturing defects has decreased to 44 per cent of all problems in 2018, compared with 61 per cent last year. All problems are summarised as the number of problems per 100 vehicles (PP100), with lower PP100 scores indicating a lower incidence of problems and, therefore, higher initial quality.

The company’s study also found that 51 per cent of all problems experienced by new-vehicle owners are design-related, compared with 18 per cent in 2017, particularly in relation to difficulties with poor or no radio reception, cup holders that are difficult to use, air conditioning failing to reach or maintain the desired temperature and noisy brakes.

Siros Satrabhaya, Regional Director, Automotive Practice at J.D. Power, said: “As reflected by the narrowed defect problem gap across the industry, manufacturers have demonstrated their commitment to improving the build quality of their vehicles. Despite these improvements, there are still opportunities to focus on improving design quality, particularly with advanced control and display interface features, so that functions are easier to understand and operate.”

“Dealership staff play a critical role in bridging the knowledge divide by offering customers comprehensive explanations and demonstrations of more complex features during the delivery process.”

The study also found:

Manufacturer-related problems still most reported: Among the top five problems reported, three are manufacturer-related and two are design-related. The most often cited manufacturer-related problems are excessive wind noise from around the vehicle (5.8 PP100); unpleasant interior smell/ odor (3.2 PP100); and abnormal suspension noises (1.8 PP100). The most often cited design-related problems are radio with poor/ no reception (8.5 PP100); and cup holders being difficult to use (3.9 PP100).

First-time new-vehicle owners report fewer problems: Buyers purchasing their first vehicle report fewer problems than repeat buyers (68 PP100 vs. 74 PP100, respectively).

Good product quality enhances likelihood to promote brand: The Net Promoter Score®[1] (NPS) measures customers’ likelihood to recommend both their vehicle make and model on a 0-10 scale. The NPS overall score in this year’s study is 52. Promoters (new-vehicle owners who provide a rating of 9-10 points on the likelihood that they will recommend the vehicle brand) reported 61 PP100, compared with 121 PP100 reported by detractors (those who provide a rating of 0-6 points on their likelihood to recommend the brand).