It's all but confirmed the 1.5T engine will power the facelifted 2022 Proton X70

The writing’s been on the wall for the 1.8-litre turbocharged engine in the Proton X70 and the latest teaser for the facelifted 2022 Proton X70 MC1 facelift all but confirms the 1.5T three-cylinder from the X50 will power the X70 come its launch within a few days.
Set to be unveiled on Proton’s Facebook page at 11am on 9 June 2022, the move to phase out the larger engine is just pure economical sense more than anything. Currently, 1.5T engine is fitted to export versions of the Proton X70 for markets such as Pakistan, Kenya, Nepal and Bangladesh.


Slipper-y mistake for this Mazda driver, straight to pole position

Pedal misapplication is one of the scariest things that could go wrong when driving. Accidents caused by pedal misapplications fall under Sudden Unintended Acceleration (SUA). SUA could be due to multiple reasons like mechanical problems with the car or just human error. In this Mazda 3’s case, it looks to be purely human error.

Based on the pictures, it looked like the driver’s slipper fell off his feet while driving, or there is a possibility that the driver had simply removed the slipper when driving, and lodged itself behind the throttle pedal.


Mercedes-Benz extends flood relief assistance for all customers

As those affected by the recent floods begin the arduous journey of picking up their lives, assistance has begun pouring in from all corners of society. Many will undoubtedly be stranded as their vehicles may have been submerged in the water and not be functional. Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has joined the troves of carmakers offering a flood relief assistance programme for its customers who are affected by the recent floods.
Also Read: So your car was stuck in a flood, now what do you do?
Much like other carmakers, the programme will comprise discounts up to 30 percent on parts and repairs. This also includes free towing by authorised dealerships as well as a free evaluation of the necessary repairs and the subsequent costs. Finally, there’ll be an interest-free easy payment plan. The offer will be valid until 31 January 2022.


Another teaser for all-new 2020 Honda City - Features LED taillights

Honda Malaysia has once again uploaded another teaser post on its all-new 2020 Honda City on its Facebook page. This time it features the LED taillights.

Model shown is the Thai-spec City RS

Just like its last teaser post, Honda is taking potshots at its archrival, the Toyota Vios with a caption that might rile up some feathers at UMW Toyota's HQ. The caption on the post says:
Keep staring, we don't mind.
#theshowstopper
#allnewcity
#thetakeoverstartsnow


We love sports cars, but SUVs are the best

SUVs, they seem to be everywhere when you're driving on the road. Those who don't own one, plan to buy one. Almost every carmaker has an offering for you in an SUV form, regardless of the segment size.

There are SUVs for the regular folk, there are SUVs for the well-heeled

What is it that makes SUVs so sought after? Are there any particular attributes that give it an edge over the traditional sedans, or wagons?
Also read: SUVs aren't killing sports cars, enthusiasts are


RM 15k buys you the best BMW 5 Series, the E39. How much to maintain and repair?

Picture in your head when asked this question, which is the best-looking BMW sedan ever made? Invariably, the answer would either be the E46 3 Series, or the subject of our buying guide today, the E39 BMW 5 Series.
With good reason too. The E39 5 Series is the automotive equivalent of Jennifer Aniston, because both don't seem to have aged a day, and both are a sight for sore eyes.
While Jennifer Aniston remains a pipe dream, you can actually still own a E39 BMW 5 Series, albeit a used one. You want one, don't you? Here's what you need to know.


Once upon a time, retro-inspired JDMs were popular in futuristic Japan

You might see Japan as this fascinating nation that is built on the future but there was a period of time when Japanese carmakers were fascinated by the past. And yes, we’re going to focus on that weird van in the recent Honda HR-V spyshot.

Despite its old-school looks, it comes with keyless entry!

We identified that van as a 1997 Daihatsu Atrai Classic, a retro variant of the Daihatsu Atrai, which was a more luxurious version of the Daihatsu Hijet van. The thing is, this is an official model from the factory, not some aftermarket kit.


All-new 2020 Honda Accord - new vs old specs, what's new?

(2020 Honda Accord Spec and Prices | Gallery)
Honda Malaysia just took the covers off the all-new tenth-generation Accord, a couple of weeks after bookings were opened.
Powertrain - Good bye NA, hello turbo
For the first time ever, the Honda Accord gets a turbocharged engine in the form of a 1.5-litre VTEC Turbo 4-cylinder engine, churning out 201 PS and 260 Nm.


Perodua now controls over 40% of Malaysia's 2023 new car sales - 97,438 units as of April

As of April 2023, Perodua has increased its market share in Malaysia’s total new car sales from 39.1 percent in 2022 to 40.7 percent.
Perodua registered 18,874 units in April 2023, that’s 41.3 percent lower than the previous month but March’s sales record were an outlier as it was the final registration month to qualify for sales tax (SST) exemption for locally assembled (CKD) cars booked between June 2020 and June 2022.
March’s 32,179 units was the highest monthly sales ever recorded in Perodua’s 30-year history.


Japanese Auto Giant Toyota Announce Quarterly Results

"Every day has been nerve-wracking," said Chief Executive Akio Toyoda.

Time has come to review automakers' 2019 Q1 financial results. Toyota, being one of Japenese auto magnates, is the first to put out its quarterly results.
Announced on Wednesday, Toyota reported a quarterly profit of 459.5 billion yen RM 18 billion), down from 480.8 billion yen in the same period the previous year. The make said its Q1 fiscal performance was affected by the absence of a U.S. tax break, which has major disincentive effects on the company's profits and investment compared to the previous fiscal year.


How does the all-new 2020 Hyundai Sonata compare to the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord?

When it comes to Hyundai, there is no escaping the critiques. It’s either “the features are not good enough”, or the inevitable “RM 200,000 for a Hyundai?” These criticisms surrounded the 2020 Hyundai Sonata since its pending arrival in Malaysia was announced. But does the car deserve the criticism? We pit the Sonata spec-sheet to spec-sheet against rivals Honda Accord and Toyota Camry to find out.

The Price
To be fair, talk about its high price is understandable. The Sonata has a full retail price of RM 206,888, which is easily RM 10,000 more than the Toyota Camry's RM 196,888 and the Honda Accord's RM 195,900 price tag. Prices stated are pre-SST discount and exemption.


PDRM setting up 24-hour roadblocks across Malaysia to "ensure public safety"

From 22-November 2022, the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) will be setting up 24-hour roadblocks in strategic locations in all districts across the country. They did not state when the operation will end.

  Ongoing roadblock heading to TTDI

According to a statement, PDRM has decided to set up roadblocks as a means to prevent crime and ensure public safety. However, they also stated that there will not be any roadblocks during traffic rush hours to prevent further congestion.
In the statement’s closing, they once again advise the public not to worry as the roadblock operation was started to ensure the safety of the people.


To train AI self-driving cars, human drivers have to pass this Initial D-style test

Argo AI is a global autonomous vehicle technology platform company headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA. The company is developing autonomous driving technology in collaboration with carmakers such as Ford Motor Company and Volkswagen Group.
On their website, it explains their testing process from development to public road testing, though they say that the process is a loop called Continuous Testing.


2021 Mercedes-Benz E180 introduced in Vietnam, less power than Civic

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class facelift was launched in Vietnam back in March with 2 variants, E200 and E300. Recently, the Mercedes-Benz Vietnam website was updated with the addition of the E180, priced at 2.05 billion Dong (RM 368k). All variants are locally assembled in Vietnam.

Powering the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E180 is a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged engine making 156 PS and 250 Nm of torque, mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission that drives the rear wheels. For comparison’s sake, the identically-sized engine in the Honda Civic Turbo makes 173 PS.


Owner Review: If I could go back in time, My 2013 Peugeot 408 Turbo

Basic information about my car:
2013, Peugot 408 Turbo, RM120000
Reasons why I bought this car:


2023 Chery Omoda 5 makes public debut in Malaysia, 2 variants to launch soon

This is it – Chery Malaysia is set to make its return to Malaysia after a 5-year hiatus. The Wuhu-based marque is currently showcasing its range of models at the 2023 Malaysia Autoshow. Visitors to the autoshow can even test drive the Omoda 5, happening from 4-May to 7-May at MAEPS Serdang.
Seen here is the 2023 Chery Omoda 5, a B-segment SUV that will enter a highly-contested segment populated by models like the Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-30, Proton X50, and Toyota Corolla Cross.


Smart to fill in gap left by Mercedes A-Class and B-Class' discontinuation

In an interview with Automotive News Europe, Smart Europe CEO Dirk Adelmann said that Smart Automobiles is no longer a niche in the A-segment, and intends to fill in the gap left by the discontinuation of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class Sedan and B-Class.

“There are three members of the Mercedes board on our supervisory board, and they monitor and co-direct our product portfolio as well as our positioning. Our clear role within Mercedes-Benz dealerships is targeting young customers and getting customers from the B- and C-segments to maybe later move to Mercedes-Benz. Those have been Smart targets for many years,” Adelmann said.


Mysterious Honda model teased, is this the Ativa-rivalling WR-V or ZR-V?

At the end of the all-new 2022 Honda BR-V reveal, the company also teased a mysterious model covered under a red cloth.

All-new Honda BR-V pictured

During the teaser, Honda Indonesia did not say what the model is, but judging by the roof rails on this mysterious model, we’re leaning towards it being an SUV.
Also Read: This is the all-new 2022 Honda BR-V, full Honda Sensing, 6 airbags, new DOHC engine


What RFID? Indonesia races ahead with smartphone-based barrierless toll collection by end-2022

No RFID stickers required, uses smartphone app
Multiple e-wallets supported
Full implementation to start ahead of schedule

Indonesia is way ahead of the game to transition its road users to a barrierless toll collection system. The country hopes to fully implement the Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) system, which Indonesia knows it as CANTAS, by the end of 2022.
Previously, it was reported that the archipelago will start rolling out MLFF in July 2022 and they hope to fully implement the system by mid-2023. However, it looks like the transition has gone smoothly and they can fully implement MLFF ahead of schedule.


Say goodbye to the RWD Toyota Avanza, hello new gen Perodua Alvanza?

The end could be near for the rear-wheel drive Toyota Avanza, as the model could be merged with the front-wheel drive Perodua Alza in the near future.
Perodua Alvanza, anyone?

Back in April, we reported that the Daihatsu DN Multisix concept shown at the 2017 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (2017 GIIAS) could preview the next-gen Toyota Avanza and Perodua Alza, seeing that both models are a tad bit long in the tooth.


Myvi driver who killed Navy officer in Johor to be charged

The Perodua Myvi driver that was involved in a high-speed crash with a Honda Accord and killing the navy officer in the process will be charged today (15/10/2020) at the Johor Bahru Magistrate Court.
Head of Johor Police, Datuk Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay confirmed the report when Sinar Harian reporters contacted him for confirmation.


2- to 8-June 2022 Fuel Price Update: RON 97 remains at RM 4.70/litre

This is the fuel price update for the first week of May (2- to 8-June 2022), which sees prices of RON 97 unchanged from the week before. Here's the prices for this week:

RON95 – RM 2.05/litre (RM 0.00)
RON97 – RM 4.70/litre (RM +0.00)
Diesel Euro 5 B10/B20 – RM 2.15/litre (RM 0.00)
Diesel Euro 5 B7 – RM 2.35/litre (RM 0.00)


All-new CBU 2023 Toyota Innova Zenix launched in Malaysia: priced from RM 165k, 2.0 Dynamic Force, hybrid, TSS

At long last, the 2023 Toyota Innova Zenix has just been launched in Malaysia via a virtual event. Two 2.0 variants are on offer, one of them is a hybrid, and both of them are fully imported (CBU) from Indonesia. Prices are as below:
2.0 V (Dynamic Force engine): RM 165,000
2.0 Hybrid (New 5th gen hybrid): RM 202,000


Want to e-race? Join Alex Yoong’s Axle Sports simulator race competition

After last year’s successful debut of eRacing GP’s online competitions, Axle Sports will be returning with Global Edition 5, the latest season of the online racing series, on 3 April 2021.
With the aim to elevate the competitive level among its participants, Axle Sports intends to upgrade its quadruple-based championship by exhibiting renowned powered race cars for each of its race categories - Gold, Silver, Bronze and Copper.


Prices for locally assembled Toyota models will maintain, for now

UMW Toyota Motor has announced that prices for locally assembled (CKD) models will not be increased at this time. The CKD models include Yaris, Vios, Rush, Hilux, Fortuner, Innova and Hiace.

About a month ago, the Ministry of Finance said that any increase in prices as a result of the new method of Open Market Value (OMV) calculation will be absorbed by the Finance Ministry until 31st December 2020. However, prices are expected to increase next year.


Old school VTEC not missed, e:HEV-only 2022 Honda HR-V won 6.5k Thai buyers in just 1 month

Honda Automobile (Thailand) Co., Ltd. has revealed that the all-new 2022 Honda HR-V has already received more than 6,500 bookings within just one month of its launch.
Unlike the previous generation HR-V, this all-new 2022 Honda HR-V is only available as a hybrid, at least in Thailand.


Priced from RM 117k in Korea, 2021 Hyundai Elantra N debuts with 6MT, 280 PS/392 Nm

The recipe sounds nostalgic - a carmaker takes a run-of-the-mill sedan, amps it up with stuff from their rallying programme, and out comes big numbers. Once the domain of Subaru and Mitsubishi, this familiar turn of events now manifests in the 2021 Hyundai Elantra N which just made its global debut today (14-July 2021).

It's known as the Avante N or i30 Sedan N in other parts of the world

It's the sixth model to join the burgeoning full-fat Hyundai N line-up - prior launches were the i20 N, i30 N, i30 Fastback N, Veloster N, and Kona N - which naturally means it has the performance to back it up, unlike the mostly cosmetic-only N Line range.
Also read: 280 PS/392 Nm, 8-speed DCT - 2021 Hyundai Kona N debuts, Malaysia's forbidden fruit


This Perodua Ativa has seen too many '80s American action flicks - Meet Japan's Alpine Style Havana

Ever wondered if you could turn your Perodua Ativa into something more striking that suits its “fast” turbo performance? If you have around RM 134,000, you can turn your friendly-looking SUV into a gruff American cowboy.

That’s the estimated price of converting a Toyota Raize/Daihatsu Rocky/Subaru Rex/Perodua Ativa into an Alpine Star Havana in Japan. That’s right, this whole conversion which made its debut at the 2023 Tokyo Auto Salon costs JPY 3.98 million (~RM 134k) which includes the car.


Year end is a bad time to buy used cars? No longer true today

As we approach the end of the year, we will soon be bombarded with news of year-end sales and deals, but this does not just apply to the retail industry, there is no better time than now, to buy a used car as well.
The year's end brings forth great used vehicle deals and value-added packages as dealers try to ramp up sales before the end of the year.


EV is not the only future as Toyota showcased multiple pathway efforts towards carbon neutrality

Mr. Akio Toyoda, President of Toyota Motor Corporation, who is also the founder and team owner of Rookie Racing, as well as a racer under the name “Morizo” led the team to participate in the Idemitsu 1500 Super Endurance 2022 (Thailand 25H Endurance Race).

  The ORC Rookie GR86 CNF Concept

Held at the Chang International Circuit in Thailand from December 17 to 18, 2022, the team participated with the ORC Rookie GR Corolla H2 concept, a hydrogen engine vehicle, and the ORC Rookie GR86 CNF Concept, a carbon-neutral (CN) fuel vehicle.
Also read: To make ever better, cleaner cars, Toyota raced and broke this hydrogen-powered Corolla for 24 hours


After Thailand, Malaysia is next to launch CKD 2022 Honda Civic Hybrid (FE) later this year

Honda Malaysia is expected to launch the 2022 Honda Civic Hybrid later this year, according to sources familiar with the matter.
The forthcoming FE-generation 2022 Honda Civic will be locally-assembled (CKD) at Honda Malaysia’s Pegoh plant in Melaka, a first for a Civic in Malaysia.


The Toyota Yaris Cross will get a Lexus BX twin, coming to Malaysia in 2023?

Just as the Toyota C-HR has spawned the Lexus UX, the Toyota Yaris Cross will also spawn yet another baby Lexus, the Lexus BX.
Just when we thought the Lexus UX is the smallest Lexus, Chinese website autohome reports that Lexus is looking to launch a new Lexus BX in 2023.
Like the Lexus UX, the baby Lexus BX will have a completely different design from the donor Toyota model. However, it will share the same TNGA-B platform underneath.


This is the last UK-made Honda Civic, production heads back to Japan

Image credit

On 29-July 2021, the last car ever produced in Honda's Swindon plant - a grey FK7 Honda Civic hatchback - rolled off the production line. Honda officially closed down its manufacturing plant in Swindon, UK, as factory workers completed their final shifts.

The Swindon factory spans 370 acres and has made over 3 million cars.

While it has been looming for some time, the closure of this plant still hit home hard, as it has been a source of livelihood for many Swindon residents, and a contributor to the wider UK economy.
Also read: Honda shifts away from UK plant, to produce more models in Japan


Outraged jobless husband sets fire to brother-in-law’s Proton Saga

An outraged husband set fire to his brother-in-law’s Proton Saga in Iskandar Puteri, Johor as he was displeased with his wife. The incident happened at around 6.30 pm on Wednesday, 80 percent of the Saga was destroyed by the fire.
Kosmo! reports that the suspect was allegedly angry with his wife who has not returned home since 1 March 2021. The wife reportedly left the couple’s home after an argument and has been living in her brother’s house that was located in the same street since then.


Mod My Car: Why did I modify an Honda Accord? My story of my 2008 Honda Accord

** This article is the personal experience of a2008 Honda Accord owner and does not necessarily reflect the views of WapCar.
Facebook: Eric Ku

I bought my second hand 2008 Honda Accord back in 2017 when I was 19 years old. The reason why I bought it was because it was big and looked domineering.


CKD Proton X70 won’t be here until Q1 2020

If you’re waiting for Proton to introduce the locally-assembled (CKD) Proton X70 soon, don’t hold your breath as it won’t arrive so soon.

According to sources familiar with the matter, the CKD version of the Proton X70 has been postponed, possibly until Q1 2020, a slight push-back from the originally scheduled November 2019 timeline.


Review: 2022 Mazda MX-30 EV High - If you need to ask about range, then it's not the EV for you

Mazda's only EV on sale in Malaysia
Brilliant design, features and safety
Limited range at 199 km but it's got Mazda soul

In 2017, Mazda said that it felt no pressure from its customers to build EVs, even stating a year earlier, that if they ever made one, it was simply to comply with strangulating emissions laws in the most lucrative markets of the world. Yet here we are with the 2022 Mazda MX-30 – their first global EV model, more on it in a bit.
Also in the same year, Mazda announced the revolutionary SkyActiv-X powertrain, which combined the benefits of a petrol and diesel engine into a single potent package, eking out more power and efficiency, and effectively showing how further CO2 reductions can be achieved from an internal combustion engine. Not that the world cared to hear, all they want were EVs.
Also read: It’s here! The fully electric Mazda MX-30 EV will be launching in Malaysia by Q4 2022


Owner Review:  The Economy 3 Box Sedan, My story 2017 Perodua Bezza 1.3 Adv

** This article is published on WapCar Community, representing the opinion of users. Click the link below to enter the community for car enthusiasts in Malaysia
https://forum.wapcar.my/

Basic information of my car:
2017 Perodua Bezza 1.3 Adv


Deal breakers: 2020 Peugeot 3008 – Love the car, wished it came with AEB

To give credit where it’s due, the 2020 Peugeot 3008 1.6T CKD is a great car to be in. It rides fantastically well, has a beautiful interior, and comes with premium feel-good features price at RM 163,888 (OTR without insurance).
Although Malaysians may not have the best impressions for the Peugeot brand, we can’t deny that this French SUV is not only on par than other popular SUVs in the class, in some areas it even betters them.


New prices for 2023 Lexus NX; up by RM 5k-RM 26k, prices now starting at RM 376k

There appears to be price revisions for the Lexus range in Malaysia, led by the 2023 Lexus NX SUV. Prices for that has gone-up RM 5,000 to RM 26,000. The new prices are as below:

2023 Lexus NX price in Malaysia

Variant
New price

NX 250 Luxury
RM 375,888, (up RM 5k, 1.34%)

NX 350 F Sport
RM 415,888 (up RM 26k, 6.66%) window.googletag = window.googletag || {cmd: []}; googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.defineSlot('/22557728108/MY_Article_Middle_leaderboard_pc', [
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These prices are effective 2-March 2023.  Besides the NX, there are also price increments for the LM luxury MPV, LC500 coupe/convertible, and LS sedan.
Also read: All-new 2022 Lexus NX launched in Malaysia, priced from RM 370,888

The Lexus NX is a compact luxury crossover, sitting on the Lexus Global Architecture K (GA-K) platform. Besides the differences in kit count and suspension, both variants offer different engines.

Cheaper of the two, the NX 250 Luxury is powered by a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine that churns out 206 PS and 243 Nm. Stepping one level up is the NX 350, which is powered by a turbocharged 2.4-litre 4-cylinder petrol, good for 279 PS and 430 Nm.
Also read: Only RM 19k difference in price, should you get the 2022 Lexus NX with a 2.5NA or 2.4 Turbo?


Perodua introduces Care Seat, new more versatile child seats for children of all ages

Perodua has an answer for parents who struggle with the need to change the child safety seat every few years. Known as the Perodua Care Seat, the new child safety seats will replace the company’s previous GearUp Infant and Toddler seats. The seats retail for RM 680 in Peninsular Malaysia and RM 695 in East Malaysia.
The new Care Seat is suitable for children of all ages up to 12 (or weighing 36 kg). Perodua designed the seats so they can be rotated to face backwards or forwards. It has 6 recline angles as well as a harness that self-adjusts according to the headrest position.
Also read: Scored a used child car seat? Have you checked the expiry date?


Gone but surely not forgotten - What cars are discontinued in Malaysia in 2020?

Previously in our year-end review of sorts, we have taken a look at the most important car launches but in this article, we'll focus on the models that have been discontinued in 2020. Some of them are pulled out due to being replaced, poor sales, or in the case of one of them, bad luck.
Without further distractions, let’s pour out a little motor oil for these fallen models that were killed off in 2020.
BMW 1 Series CKD


Earn RM 4k a month? Here are 6 great used cars, from Civic to C-Class

One of the most asked questions posed in our forum and Facebook group is “What car should I get if I earn RM xxx?”. If you decide on buying a new car, you won’t have many choices especially if you earn around RM 4k a month.

You could get a brand-new Honda City, albeit the base spec.

Malaysians aren’t quite as blessed with options as some of our neighbours but if you want variety, then the used car market is your only option. It’s a near-endless smorgasbord of choices with really tempting prices.
Also read: Indonesians get more choices than us - Toyota Raize fights Kia Sonet, Nissan Magnite


Police summons police part 2; Bukit Aman fines officers with fancy number plates

It is Bukit Aman’s turn to conduct a spot check on all personnel's private vehicles at the Police Headquarters of the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) in Kuala Lumpur.
Also read: Police summons police officers for using fancy number plates


When can we expect the Toyota Corolla Cross to arrive in Malaysia? CKD or CBU?

The Toyota Corolla Cross made its global debut in Thailand last week. Production has already begun in Thailand and the Corolla Cross will be in dealerships across the land of smiles later this month.

As for the Malaysian market, the Corolla Cross will make its way here and UMW Toyota Motor hinted that it will be locally assembled.


MINI's last internal combustion engine model to launch in 2025

MINI is intensifying its efforts to phase out internal combustion engines and focusing on electric mobility. Therefore, the carmaker has announced that 2025 will be the final time that it will introduce a new internal combustion engine, and that will be that.

This is in line with MINI's target to deliver at least 50% of its cars in electric form by 2027. From that point onwards, MINI will aim to have a fully electric vehicle range by the early 2030s (which, if you think about it, isn't really that far away).


Before touchscreen infotainments, plain in-car radios used to cost upwards of RM 19k in the '30s!

In the present day, car buyers have come to expect modern tech like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity built into the swanky touchscreen infotainment. It is hard to believe that a hundred years ago, the car radio is a luxury that only the elite can afford.
It has been 135 years since the car was invented, but the concept of having a radio in the car only started in the early 1920s. The Americans were the first to have the bright idea of fitting radio valve technology into a car to keep drivers accompanied throughout their journeys.


2022 Honda Civic FE, what's better? Hear from the Project Leader himself!

The FC-generation Honda Civic was a runaway success as a product, so much so that its successor, the Civic FE, will have big shoes to fill when it inevitably arrives in Malaysia. But as with every new model, one question remains.
How has it evolved from its predecessor, the FC-generation, which remained a strong seller in Malaysia even towards the end of its model cycle?


All-new 2023 Honda CR-V clued in leaked patent image with mature, clean looks

The grayscale object you see above may very well be the world's inaugural clear peek at the all-new, 2023 Honda CR-V.
Our first look at the upcoming CR-V is – like most recent Hondas over the last couple of years – through a patent filing, uncovered by Vanhoe Rage. You may recall the Malaysia-bound 2022 Honda HR-V and BR-V were also revealed in the same way.
Also read: All-new 2022 Honda BR-V patent images leaked, gets Honda Sensing


Kedah MB’s Volvo XC60 sold for RM 150k; Money to go into Palestine aid

Kedah Menteri Besar, Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor, contributes to the #Aid4Palestine fund by auctioning off his 2010 Volvo XC60 3.0. The SUV was placed on bidding with more than 20 bidders showing interest. The car was ultimately sold for RM 150,000.

According to Sinar Harian, bidding for the car started on Saturday at RM 55,000. Sanusi told the Malay daily the 20 bidders included individuals from outside the state.


5 years free service promotion for all Volvo hybrids in Malaysia

Between now until 31-March 2023, all hybrid Volvo cars in Malaysia will enjoy a free 5-year service package (VSA5+).
VSA5+, otherwise known as the 'Volvo Service Agreement 5 Plus’, is a 5-year comprehensive car service package from Volvo Cars that covers the first five car services including wear and tear items that may need to be replaced, as well as labour.
All Volvo cars with a combustion engine have a 1-year / 20,000 km service interval.


Spied: All-new 2021 Honda HR-V spotted in Thailand

Merely weeks after its global debut in Japan, the all-new 2021 Honda HR-V has been spotted in Thailand.
As seen on social media sites, this particular Honda HR-V was spotted somewhere in the vicinity of Ayutthaya, Thailand – the same area where Honda Thailand has a production facility.


Promising full transparency, Chairman Toyoda explains why no recall / stop sales of Toyota Vios in Malaysia

Procedural irregularity in applying for UN R95 certification - only 539 units of Toyota Vios in Malaysia are affected, versus 75,750 units (including Yaris hatchback) in Thailand
Re-test done by external agency appointed by Belgian government with production car parts - UN R95 standard is still met, no recall necessary
Pause of deliveries in Thailand only because Thai authorities want to witness the re-test, while Malaysian authorities are satisfied with results of the first re-test

When Daihatsu admitted on 28-April that there was a ‘procedural irregularity’ in obtaining the United Nations Regulations No. 95 (UNECE R95) regulatory approval for side-impact protection for the AC100 generation 2023 Toyota Vios, a model developed by Daihatsu under contract for Toyota, Chairman Akio Toyoda promised full transparency on the matter.
Today, Chairman Toyoda is in Thailand, the country most affected by the issue, to host a press conference on the matter.
Deliveries of the Toyota Yaris Ativ, as the Vios is known there, has been suspended since the matter came to light.


Launch of all-new 2022 Honda BR-V in Indonesia postponed to November

The all-new Honda BR-V is expected to debut during the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) that was originally scheduled to be held in August this year. However, the GIIAS event has been postponed to November following the rise of Covid-19 cases in Indonesia.

This, in turn, delays the introduction of the all-new Honda BR-V (purportedly the production version of the Honda N7X Concept) as well.


Shooting incident: Production of Mercedes-Benz S-Class and EQS halted at Germany's Sindelfingen plant

Production of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and EQS at the Sindelfingen plant is temporarily halted after a shooting incident yesterday left two dead.
Work at the Sindelfingen plant was stopped immediately and police were called to the scene.
Local news reports say a 53-year old perpetrator disarmed and overpowered by the company’s security personnel, but one person died at the scene from gunshot wounds, while another died in the hospital. It also added that production of the two aforementioned models will not continue until next week.


Live Photos: 2020 Honda Jazz RS showcased at the Bangkok International Motor Show

Honda Thailand has shown various models at this year's Bangkok International Motor Show. Seen alongside the 2020 Honda City Turbo RS is this 2020 Honda Jazz RS.
The Jazz RS is powered by a 1.5-litre four-pot that makes 117 PS and 146 Nm of torque. Power is delivered through a CVT to its front wheels.


Toyota RAV4 will be rebadged as a Suzuki ACross with Toyota's hybrid system

Toyota and Suzuki announced their plans for collaboration way back in 2017. The first phase of the collaboration saw Suzuki supplying its Baleno to Toyota, which then sells it as the Toyota Glanza in India.

Japanese market Toyota RAV4 pictured


This is the all-new 2022 Honda BR-V, full Honda Sensing, 6 airbags, new DOHC engine

First previewed as the N7X Concept, Honda Indonesia has just launched the all-new, 2022 Honda BR-V.
Now in its second generation, Honda has revamped the BR-V from the ground-up.


Here’s a first look at the all-new 2021 Nissan X-Trail

The Nissan Rogue, as the Nissan X-Trail is known as in the US, will be making its global debut on Monday June 15.
More details to follow when the all-new 2021 Nissan X-Trail is revealed next week.


13- to 19-Jan 2022 Fuel Price Update: RON 97 up 4 sen, RON 95, diesel unchanged

It's the second week of January and fuel prices see an update. Here's how it stacks up this week:

Fuel prices from 13- to 19-January 2022 will be as follows:

RON95 – RM 2.05/litre (RM 0.00)
RON97 – RM 3.07/litre (+RM 0.04)
Diesel Euro 5 B10/B20 – RM 2.15/litre (RM 0.00)
Diesel Euro 5 B7 – RM 2.35/litre (RM 0.00)


Review: BMW iX xDrive40 Sport - Brilliant to drive, shame about the looks

In the ever pursuit of efficiency, the driving experience in modern cars have become more and more similar. The low-end turbocharged grunt, sharp electric-assisted steering, slick-shifting transmission, etc. are characteristics that apply to the majority of European models from VW, Mercedes, or BMW.

The emergence of electric vehicles (EVs) is bringing the driving experience even closer to one another. With electric motors, there’s no distinction in sound and its power delivery is always immediate and relatively constant.


From Seremban to the world, Samsung SDI starts work on new RM 5.8b EV battery manufacturing plant in Malaysia

Construction of Samsung SDI’s second battery production facility in Seremban, Negeri Sembilan has started. The new plant, known as Plant 2 to Samsung, is estimated to start mass-production of PRiMX 21700 cylindrical batteries in 2024.
Samsung SDI is Samsung’s battery manufacturing arm. Last month, it was reported that the company’s local business entity, known as Samsung SDI Energy Malaysia (SDIEM), has plans to upgrade its facility in Seremban to produce batteries for electric vehicles (EV).


No more 1.8 NA? 2022 Honda Civic FE for Malaysia very likely to get 1.5 VTEC turbo only

Thai-spec cars pictured in this article

The list of cars Malaysia is set to welcome is a densely populated one, and among the many models there's the all-new 2022 Honda Civic (FE).

Our checks with several sources indicates that the 1.8-litre naturally-aspirated (NA) mill (which currently serves in the Civic FC 1.8 S) will be discontinued, and all variants at launch are very likely to only get the 1.5-litre VTEC turbo engine.
This arrangement mirrors that of our regional neighbours – Thailand dropped the 1.8-litre NA option, while Singapore didn't carry forward the Civic FC's 1.6-litre NA engine.


Spied: Proton X50 and X70 spotted testing again in Thailand, market launch by end-2021?

Camouflaged test vehicles of the Proton X50 and Proton Proton X70 have been spotted on the roads of Thailand.
Though both the X50 and X70 have been spotted there before, this is the first time both models have been photographed alongside each other.


Max Verstappen calls Aston Martin safety car ‘a turtle’ after holding up his Honda-powered Red Bull. Prefers the Mercedes-AMG GT

Did reigning Formula 1 World Champion Max Verstappen just called the Aston Martin F1 safety car a turtle? Yes, he did. The Dutchman did not mince words when he complained to the media about the safety car going “too slow” during its deployment at the Australian Grand Prix.
In case you didn’t know, since 2021, Formula One alternates between two safety cars: an Aston Martin V8 Vantage and a Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series.


2004 Proton Satria R3 1.8, Race Rally Research’s first-ever star

Established in 2003, Race Rally Research, better known as R3, is Proton’s official performance and motorsports division.

Proton R3's founding team members

Headquartered in Proton’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Shah Alam, R3 does more than just cosmetic accessories or sport rims, as they have the desire to achieve the same status like what NISMO is for Nissan and STI for Subaru.


GWM poaches ex-Toyota executive to market Haval hybrids and Ora EVs in ASEAN

Great Wall Motors (GWM) has appointed Vudhigorn Suriyachantananont as the Vice President of Marketing Asean, effective from 1-June 2023.
In his new role, Vudhigorn will be instrumental in growing Great Wall Motor's business in Thailand and the ASEAN region. He will be responsible for strategic marketing, brand awareness planning, introducing new products to the market, and driving sales.


Continental Tyre Malaysia welcomes Andrea Somorova as Managing Director

Andrea Somorova has returned to Continental Tyre Malaysia as Managing Director.
Andrea Somorova joins from Continental of Taiwan where she was the General Manager.


Is your Toyota Hilux too tame? Mod it with this Modellista kit, available in Malaysia

Owners of the Toyota Hilux who feel their pick-up truck is a little too humdrum can now look towards Modellista's latest kit - which is now available in Malaysia!

The multi-piece kit is relatively simple - up front, the touches include a set of fog lamp garnishes, a front spoiler, and a grille garnish.


Karamjit Singh will make flying return to rallying with new sponsorship

Rally racer Karamjit Singh will make his long-awaited return to the sport in the National Rally Championship in Sepang on June 26-27. This will be The Flying Sikh’s first race in more than 3 years.

The championship was originally slotted to kick off on April 23-27 but due to the various stages of Movement Control Order (MCO) in place, the organisers have decided to push the first round back to June. As such, the 4-round season will end in November 2021.


All-new Mazda 6: RWD, double wishbone and multi-link suspension makes it a 4-door MX-5

Image credit

As the all-new 2022 Mazda 6 sedan moves closer and closer to seeing light of day, Mazda has shared with us a glimpse of what the underpinnings look like. The company has also today revealed outlined its Sustainable Zoom Zoom 2030 product plan, where we get a first look at the all-new platform's hardware.
Also read: Look hard enough, and you will see the all-new 2022 Mazda 6’s inline 6-cylinder engine

48-volt mild hybrid set up

It's no secret that Mazda aspires to move upmarket, and as such have developed an all-new inline-six cylinder engine and rear-wheel drive chassis to do so. Additionally, in this reveal it's paired with a 48-Volt mild-hybrid (MHEV) system. This is indeed part of Mazda's plan to fully-electrify its offerings electrified in some capacity come 2030.

Plug-in hybrid architecture, with a 4-cylinder engine

Mazda is also looking at a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) drivetrain, one that will utilise a four-cylinder petrol engine, mounted longitudinally in this new platform. A six-cylinder mild hybrid is being tabled as well.


Access to Tesla's Superchargers granted to Mercedes-Benz customers in North America

Mercedes-Benz is set to provide its customers with access to Tesla Superchargers in North America starting in 2024. This makes Mercedes-Benz the first German carmaker to incorporate North American Charging Standard (NACS) ports into its new electric vehicles (EVs), starting in 2025.

To facilitate a smooth transition, the company plans to offer an adapter that will enable existing CCS (Combined Charging System) BEVs (Battery Electric Vehicles) to charge effortlessly on the NACS network from 2024 onward. Last month, Volvo also announced that the company will adopt the NACS port for its EVs in America.


Volkswagen launches Malaysia's first Das WeltAuto dealer in Gombak

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) and its dealer partner, MHV Autohaus, launched Malaysia’s first standalone Das WeltAuto (DWA) dealership in Gombak. The dealership has a total land size of 18,500 sq. ft. and can accommodate up to 55 cars with two additional parking bays for car delivery.

Over the years, MHV Autohaus has accumulated various accolades in Malaysia by winning Best Volkswagen Dealer of the Year Award from 2017 to 2020, consecutively. This award recognises dealer partners for their excellence in customer service encompassing the total sales and aftersales experience.


Price up by RM 2k but now with LKA, wireless charger - 2022 Mercedes GLB updated for Malaysia

Prices up by RM 2k
Adds new features like wireless charger and Lane Keep Assist
GLB 200 now gets ambient lighting

Like the A-Class and GLA, the 7-seater 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB has also been updated with additional equipment and a slight bump in price.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB still comes as a fully-imported (CBU, Mexico) model, priced at RM 271,788 for the GLB 200 and RM 320,965 for the GLB 250. Prices are on-the-road without insurance, with SST discount, valid until 30-June 2022.


Proton X50 to be previewed on 15 September 2020!

It is official! Proton's B-segment SUV is about to arrive. The long-awaited Proton X50 will be previewed to a select set of audience on the 15th of September 2020. But wait, this doesn’t mean that the SUV will finally go on sale after the preview. Let us explain.
A preview is different from a launch, and with this being a closed preview, the full details of the B-segment SUV will not be announced to the world on the day of the preview.


The cult of the Toyota AE86 in Malaysia - An over-glorified anime car?

For a lot of us petrolheads, the origins of why we love cars often come from various media. The spark could come from video games like Gran Turismo or movies like The Fast and the Furious but when it comes to our featured car, the Toyota AE86 really needs no introduction.

The anime/manga/movie that featured the famous black and white liftback with a tofu shop name inscribed on the driver’s door brought the art of drifting to a mainstream audience. My esteemed colleague and WapCar BM’s editor, Zamil, is himself a professional drifter and Initial D was the spark that ignited his love of moving sideways with style.


Ford uses an ice baby to show how dangerous it is to leave a child in a hot car

As the Northern Hemisphere experiences a period of hot, warm, and humid weather known as summer, Ford has put out a video reminding owners to never leave their children or pets unattended.

According to research done by advocacy group KidsandCars.org, a child’s body overheats 3 to 5 times faster than an adult’s. Similarly, hot weather can also be dangerous for pets left in vehicles as it takes just 6 minutes for a dog to die in a hot car according to RSPCA Australia.


The all-new Honda BR-V could be launched in Malaysia in early 2022

The all-new, 2022 Honda BR-V could make its market debut in Malaysia as early as next year. This is following news that the all new Honda BR-V will be launched in Indonesia by the end of this year.
According to a report by Otodriver, production will start in Indonesia in December 2021. Apart from that, the all-new BR-V will also be assembled in Malaysia and India.

Leaked patent image of the Honda N7X Concept

“The next-gen BR-V will only be made in Indonesia, India and Malaysia. Malaysia will bring in CKD (Completely Knocked Down) units from Indonesia," explained the anonymous source to OtoDriver.


Estimated to start from RM 478k, Thailand officially launches 2023 Honda Civic Type R (FL5) for the first time

The 2022 Honda Civic Type R (FL5) continues its ASEAN journey after its regional debut in Vietnam, this time launched in Thailand. Prices are not out at point of publication; though estimates point it to be north of THB 3.8 million – roughly equivalent to an eye-watering RM 478k!


Old JDMs out of reach? You can still be cool with the new Honda Jazz, yours from RM 127k

A few years back the Honda Jazz plied its trade alongside the City, catering to Malaysians who didn't quite fancy the analogous Toyota Yaris or Vios duo. That changed late last year, when the City Hatchback took the mantle where the Jazz once sat.

Porting over the entire front end + interior from the sedan to the hatchback = cheaper to make, cheaper to sell

Though its Bulbasaur looks and super-duper-ultra minimalist interior definitely had something to do with its non-appearance here, things like degree of parts commonality and buyer behaviour also play their part. All in, this means Singapore is the only country in our part of the world that can buy a Fit brand-new.


5 things we now know about GWM in Malaysia; CKD work in the pipeline

CKD work underway at Go Auto's facility in Gurun, Kedah
BEVs and PHEVs to be offered
Spare parts warehouse in Klang Valley

Earlier today, Great Wall Motor (GWM) marked their return to Malaysia after a brief hiatus. This time around, GWM is represented by a new management.
The Baoding-based company is now represented by Great Wall Motor Sales Malaysia Sdn Bhd and they have big plans for Malaysia.
Here’s 5 quick facts you need to know about GWM in Malaysia.


Review: New 2022 Proton X70 MC - Now with the X50's 1.5 Turbo, is it better?

Earlier this month, Proton gave its first-ever SUV, the 2022 Proton X70, its mid-life update. Yes, mid-life update, as the Proton X70 has been on sale in Malaysia for almost 4 years.

The Proton X70 was launched here back in late-2018

Since its debut in Malaysia back in 2018, the Proton X70 has proven to be a very popular model for the Malaysian Tiger, with 8,500 units delivered within the first 100 days of its launch. To-date, there are more than 70,000 units of the Proton X70 roaming the streets, with some exported too.
Now, with the new downsized, turbocharged 1.5-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine in place of the original 1.8-litre unit, how does the 2022 Proton X70 MC perform?


The Suzuki Waku Spo concept is a 4-door shooting brake convertible

As confusing as the title sounds, it really is a coupe with four doors and is able to transform itself into a wagon. Suzuki says that the Waku Spo will be enjoyed by families among three generations, combining the driving fun of a coupe and the practicality of a wagon.

The interior is also able to change its appearance in a Bentley-like fashion. In standard mode, a simple wood grain design displays only the necessary information. Switching to sport mode will turn the wood grain into a large monitor on the instrument panel.


Wapcar Morning Insiders (Sep. 6, 2019)

Today is Friday, Sep. 6
 Local News
VW Announces VIP – Volkswagen Insurance Plan

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) today announced the launch of its insurance programme, the Volkswagen Insurance Plan or “VIP”.


Perodua aims to sell nearly 250k units in 2022, its highest target ever

Even though Perodua ended 2021 on top, holding the title of best-selling brand and car in Malaysia, it failed to reach its target. With 2022 focused more on recovery, Perodua aims not only to maintain its position at the top but to also increase production and sales.

At a recent 2022 performance outlook press conference to the media, Perodua announced its target to produce 265,901 units in 2022, 37% higher than 2021 which saw 193,400 vehicles being produced.


Watch out Ford Ranger Raptor, this Shelby-tuned GWM Pao Baja Snake is coming after you

Apart from the sea of other cars displayed in the recent 2021 Shanghai Auto Show, we'd like to show one more - this wild, China-market 2021 GWM Pao Baja Snake.

This is a jacked-up, even more rugged version of the Pao - yes, the same one that we spied in Malaysia earlier this week.


2022 Suzuki S-Cross debuts – The Honda HR-V competitor we need

In a rather quiet debut, the all-new third-generation 2022 Suzuki S-Cross has broke cover for the European market with a snazzy new design and upgraded equipment.
The 2022 S-Cross is the third-generation of the Suzuki SX-4 which enjoyed decent sales in Malaysia. The second-generation S-Cross lived a short life before the eventual exodus of Suzuki Malaysia in 2016.


Chery invited to discuss investment and development plans with PM Anwar in China

On 29-March 2023, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim visited China for the first time to discuss the exchange between Malaysia and China in economy and trade. Executives of Chery International were also invited to have an in-depth discussion with the PM’s envoy during his visit.

Discussions were held between representatives of Chery International and the Minister of International Trade and Industry of Malaysia (MITI), Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz on the investment plan and development direction in Malaysia.


HR-V-rivalling 2023 Hyundai Creta 1.5L now open for booking in Malaysia, RM 100k?

SUVs are all the rage in Malaysia and in the B-segment market, there will be a new player in town against the likes of the Honda HR-V and Proton X50, the 2023 Hyundai Creta. Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) has officially opened the order books for the Creta at all its authorised sales outlets nationwide and via its online booking platform, Cl!cktoBuy.

  Indonesian-spec Creta shown

“With so much practicality and space contained within a compact footprint, it’s not difficult to see why SUVs continue to rise in popularity, both globally and in Malaysia. The Hyundai Creta illustrates this perfectly, and we look forward to giving Malaysians more choices in the realm of SUVs upon its introduction, which is just around the corner!” said Sime Darby Motors Managing Director of Retail and Distribution for Malaysia Mr Jeffrey Gan.

  Indonesian-spec Creta shown

“The Hyundai Creta targets the young as well as the young-at-heart with its distinctive combination of contemporary design, connected technology and comprehensive active safety features. Optimised for the Asia-Pacific market, this B-segment SUV also offers the practicality, space and convenience to suit active lifestyles,” said HSDM Managing Director Mr Low Yuan Lung.


Honda Malaysia kicks off 1 Million Dreams contest, frontliners have higher chances

Honda Malaysia has sold their 1 millionth car! To celebrate the achievement the company kick-started their 1 Million Dreams Campaign with a contest where the grand prize is 7 Special Edition one-of-a-kind models, one of each model the company has on sale.

It seemed not too long ago that Honda celebrated selling their 900,000th car, but it’s been 2 years since the company reached its sales record milestone. The 1 Million Dreams Campaign is part of Honda Malaysia’s initiative to thank customers for their support.


Spied: 2020 MG HS spied, Proton X70 rival coming soon?

MG exited Malaysia a couple of years ago and talks of the iconic British marque returning to Malaysia isn’t new, as MG’s parent company, SAIC Motor Corp Ltd, has been in talks with various parties to re-introduce the brand here over the past couple of years. Needless to say, none of those talks came to fruition.

But the recent sighting of a 2020 MG HS at a Road Transport Department (JPJ) branch pretty cements the notion that MG will be reintroduced in Malaysia.


10 tips on how to save money on your car's fuel cost

Apart from insurance and maintenance, another big ticket item that we have to spend on our cars is fuel. Sure, fuel price is at the lowest now due to the Covid-19 pandemic, but that doesn’t mean you are permanently immune from rising fuel cost, or you can't improve things further.
As a general rule of thumb, you should always read through your car's owner’s manual and look for the recommended grade of fuel required, as well as recommended driving/maintenance habits.
Here are 10 top tips from us at WapCar to help you go further with one tank of fuel.


15 - 21 April Fuel Price Update: No changes in fuel prices this week

This week, there's no changes in fuel prices.
The fuel prices from 15 - 21 April 2021 will be as follows:

RON 95 – RM 2.05/litre
RON 97 – RM 2.54/litre
Diesel Euro 2M – RM 2.15/litre
Diesel Euro 5 – RM 2.25/litre


BMW will be cheaper to produce than Mazda by 2025

In a report by Reuters, one of the board members of BMW Group said that the company plans a significant reduction in production costs by 2025. The move is said to gain competitiveness against Volkswagen, Daimler, and Tesla.

"We will lower the production costs per vehicle by 25% by 2025 - compared with the level in 2019," Milan Nedeljkovic, BMW's board member in charge of production, was quoted as saying by German newspaper Handelsblatt.


Video: Elderly pedestrian flings bag at motorcyclist for jumping red light

It isn’t totally unheard of (or in this case unseen) that cars and motorcyclists ignore the pedestrian crossing lights. However, it is rare to see a pedestrian swinging their belongings in retaliation at those who ignore the red light.
That was what happened in Ayer Hitam, Penang when an elderly pedestrian was trying to cross the zebra crossing only to have to stop as several vehicles jumped the red light.

@penang_kini sila berhenti dan beri laluan kepada pejalan kaki ketika lampu isyarat merah. Kan dh kena.. 😅 Area ayer itam, Penang #penangkiniviral #penangkini ♬ original sound - Mary Jo

One of them, a motorcyclist, almost mowed down the elderly man as he was already in the middle of the crossing.


Why I Buy: Best bang for money for car features! My x70 Premium X even come with Sunroof.

** This article is the personal experience of a 2020 Proton x70 new owner and does not necessarily reflect the views of WapCar.

Detail about car

Car info: 2020 Proton x70 Premium X CKD
Order date: June 2020
Delivery date: August 2020 (on Merdeka Days)
Price: RM122,800. However, due to the current Government direction of SST rebates of RM7k of this model, plus additional rebates thrown out by SA, the ODR price of this is even cheaper than 2020 HRV 1.8L V Spec.

Reason to buy
Basically, I owned a Honda Accord 2.4 2015 while my wife is using her Perodua Viva Elite 2011 which was her car since the University days.
Due to her parent’s old car (2001 Wira 1.6) starting to give up on reliability, it is the idea to return back the trusty and reliable Viva Elite to them for daily use.


2021 Hyundai Palisade launching in Malaysia soon – 3.8L V6, 291 PS/355 Nm

Hyundai Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) is looking to up their premium game with the incoming launch of the 2021 Hyundai Palisade flagship SUV in Malaysia sometime this year. This announcement comes alongside the imminent local arrival of the refreshed Kona B-segment SUV.

The Palisade is a 7-seater SUV that is as premium as the Germans when it comes to equipment. The Malaysian-spec Palisade is powered by a naturally-aspirated Atkinson-cycle 3.8-litre direct-injected V6 engine that produces 291 PS and 355 Nm.


Top 5 used manual cars that you can buy in Malaysia

In the age where automatic transmissions have proven themselves to be faster than their manual counterparts, the one last argument enthusiasts have against it is driver involvement.
How a manual car performs, rely mostly on the driver’s skills—and that, to some, is a rewarding experience that an automatic transmission simply could not offer.
With that being said, if you’re that person who enjoys the fun and challenges of a manual transmission car, here are five used manual cars (that are not too old) that you can still buy in Malaysia.


The Daihatsu Mira story part 1: From humble kei car to Perodua Kancil

The Mira nameplate existed for around 40 years
Many Kancils, Kelisas, and Vivas have been converted to their respective JDM twins
In Part 1 of this two-part article, we'll focus on the first 3 generations of the Mira

Ever since the first Perodua went on sale in 1994, the art of converting Malaysia’s second “national” carmaker into a Daihatsu has been quite the automotive subculture that is both embraced and ridiculed.

Spot the Mira-looking Viva in front (Credit: Viva Owners Club Borneo Region)

Converting a Kancil, Kelisa, or Viva isn’t very expensive and there are numerous half-cut shops around the country that offer Daihatsu Mira parts if one wishes to do so. The Mira is associated over here with Peroduas given a “JDM” facelift by their owners but for around 40 years, it has been known more as a humble car that drove Japan.


Consumer Reports: Mazda is more reliable than Toyota and Lexus

Mazda is now the most reliable car brand in USA, ranking ahead of traditional reliability champions Toyota and Lexus. This is according to Consumer Reports’ 2020 Auto Reliability Surveys, which collects data of its members’ collective ownership experience with more than 300,000 vehicles.
For the first time ever, Mazda ranked top, ahead of second and third placed Toyota and Lexus.


Audi reminds us it's still around by getting in on the post-SST pricing announcements

“Hey guys, remember us?” You can almost imagine Audi jumping up and down excitedly in an attempt to remind us that the marque is still very much alive in Malaysia and now has post-SST exemption pricing just like everyone else.
The following table shows the updated prices with SST now included:

Audi pricing with SST

Model
Private registration
Company registration

A5 Sportback S Line
RM 454,162
RM 454,734

Q2 S Line
RM 282,710
RM 283,130

Q3 S Line
RM 304,890
RM 305,090

Q3 Sportback S Line
RM 357,223.60
RM 357,423.60

Q5 S Line
RM 486,223.60
RM 486,423.60

Q5 Sportback S Line
RM 487,223.60
RM 487,423.60

Q8 S Line
RM 867,422
RM 867,622


One of the world’s largest carmakers is making a comeback, does Malaysia have room for it?

This year marks the 100th anniversary of one of the world’s largest car makers. It is also one of only three companies in the world that still produces both cars and motorcycles. I am talking about Suzuki. And word on the grapevine is that Suzuki is about to make a return to Malaysia after a four-year absence.

Though tenth in the global ranking of size by volume, the fact that Suzuki got to where it is without sub-brands and representation in the lucrative North American market is remarkable.


Geely Icon SUV revealed, should this be the next Proton SUV?

Called the Icon, the second B-Segment Modular Architecture-based (BMA) SUV from Geely has been unveiled. The BMA platform also underpins the Geely Binyue, which is likely to be the Proton X50.

The Icon’s exterior design takes a different route from previous Geely SUV models towards a more squarish approach. Though some features like the clamshell bonnet and roofline bears a resemblance to the Range Rover Evoque.


Turn Your Dream Porsche Into An Artform

Porsche aficionado’s can now extend their love for the brand! The Stuttgart legend has launched the VIN Art Configurator that can be used to create portraits of the highest quality of your preferred spec Porsche or better still, your very own Porsche. VIN Art to caters to a Porsche lover who yearns to not just enjoy the driving prowess of the machine, but also its aesthetically pleasing lines placed in your living room wall.


Why is a Proton X70 cheaper than a Honda CR-V by RM53k? What's the difference in taxes?

The most expensive Proton X70 Premium X variant sells for just RM 122,800. A similarly equipped Honda CR-V 1.5 TC-P sells for RM 175,900. Both cars are from the same segment but there’s a whopping RM 53,100 difference in prices!
To give you a better perspective, for the price of a top specs Honda CR-V 1.5 TC-P, you can buy the most expesive Proton X70 variant, then head over to a nearby Perodua showroom to buy another mid-specs Perodua Myvi 1.5H, and still have some change left!


Sneak peek inside the new 2022 Perodua Myvi – Ativa’s infotainment, steering wheel, red accents

Perodua has announced today that dealers are taking orders for the new 2022 Perodua Myvi facelift (D51A). To recap, the new Myvi will get upgraded safety features and will now be offered exclusively as an automatic transmission-only model.
The outgoing Myvi’s ASA suite of advance driving assistance (ADAS) features has since been expanded to include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, blind spot assist, rear cross traffic alert, and auto high beam - all features are now grouped under the Perodua Smart Drive Assist umbrella.
Perodua says fuel efficiency has also been improved from 21.1 km/litre to 22.2 km/litre for the 1.3-litre variant, which points to the direction of a rumoured new CVT-type automatic transmission across the range.


VW Malaysia and PichaEats deliver 280 meals, a helping hand for those in need and frontliners

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) and PichaEats teamed up over the weekend to deliver a total of 280 meals to the less fortunate, in efforts to drive kindness this festive season.
The “Driving Kindness” convoy consisted of employees from Volkswagen and Picha, driving a Tiguan Allspace Highline and a Passat Elegance; and four classic Volkswagen cars – two Beetle cars and two Kombi vans driven by their owners who had volunteered for the project.
Recipients of the Driving Kindness campaign were Hiichiikok Foundation, Trinity Community Children’s Home, Lighthouse Children’s Welfare Home, Sunteck Handicap Welfare Home and Charis Sheep Pen Shelter, all located in Klang Valley.


All-new 2022 Toyota Avanza aka next-gen Perodua Alza rendered to look like 7-seater Raize

The Toyota Avanza is long due for a replacement yet it is still printing money for Toyota with the model being among Indonesia’s best-selling cars of 2021.
Still, the all-new Avanza which will switch from rear-wheel-drive (RWD) to front-wheel-drive (FWD), is due to be launched as early as November and already there is a rendering of what it could look like.


Watch: Tesla Model S with FSD sees ghost, brakes abruptly and caused 8-car pile-up in a tunnel

On November 24, an 8-car pile-up happened in San Francisco, USA after a Tesla Model S abruptly changed lanes and then braked suddenly to a complete halt. Although the incident happened several months earlier, it trended recently after CCTV footages had emerged, showing that the Tesla really did brake for no reason.
The incident happened on a tunnel in San Francisco Bay Bridge, left 9 people injured, including a 2-year old. The driver of the Tesla claims that he had left the car to drive in Full Self Driving (FSD) mode, which meant that he had transferred control of steering, acceleration, and braking to the car’s computer.


RM 200k for brand new Camry or Accord? Why not a used C200?

Alright, so your career is going well, and you've earned yourself a promotion. Things look rosy, and you now would prefer to schlep around in something more.... executive, luxurious and upmarket. A departure from your regular B- or C-segment grinders. In the RM 180 - 200k price range. A new Toyota Camry? A Honda Accord? Perhaps a used Mercedes-Benz C200?

Price with SST discount

Toyota Camry 2.5V
RM 188,763

Honda Accord 1.5 TC-P
RM 187,390

Yes yes, They're of different segments and sizes, the D-segment Japanese sedans and the Mercedes C-Class. However, shoppers in this price range are always looking to get the most flash their money can get them (and the C-Class is pretty flash). Let's dive into whether you should plump for the new Japanese sedans, or a used Continental car like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class


Mitsubishi Xpander: Not a 4x4, but MMM wants to show you its 205 mm ground clearance is good enough for mild flash floods

Come and experience first-hand thrills and the proven capabilities of the Mitsubishi Xpander seven-seater crossover as Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM), the official distributor of Mitsubishi vehicles in Malaysia, brings you the Mitsubishi Xpander Venture Event!

The event will take place from 14-15 January 2023, at Dataran Karnival, Perkarangan Shah Alam, Selangor, from 10.00 am to 6.00 pm. Admission is free.


Mother frames elderly Viva driver for kidnapping OKU daughter

Yesterday, a video of a woman delivering a flying kick into a grey Perodua Viva went viral across various social media platforms. It has now been revealed that the woman had mistaken the elderly Viva driver for trying to kidnap her disabled (OKU) daughter.
According to Kosmo online, the incident happened in Bandar Country Homes, Gombak. The woman first realised that her OKU daughter was missing when they were buying breakfast in a shop.


Top Rank: Proton, Toyota, Perodua top Malaysia's most-stolen cars list

It's not an easy topic, but it's worth knowing so you can take appropriate precautions. Here's the Vehicle Theft Reduction Council of Malaysia’s (VTREC) Industry Vehicle Theft Statistics for Q1 2020.
The pictures here do not dictate the exact models or variants. A lot of these cars have been in the market for years, so it's a mix of variants across different model generations.


Honda Jazz vs 2021 Honda City Hatchback, which do you prefer?

The first ever 2021 Honda City Hatchback made its global debut in Thailand earlier today. Following the same formula as the Toyota Yaris and Toyota Vios (sold as Yaris Ativ in Thailand), the City Hatchback will have an identical front-end as the City sedan, and will replace the Honda Jazz, which has been sold in this region for three generations.

2020 Honda Jazz (Fit) is cute but unless you are an anime fan, few here can accept its looks

The fourth generation Honda Jazz however, will skip markets in the South East Asian ASEAN trade bloc, and is only limited to Japan, Europe, and China. Introduction in the US is still yet to be announced.

2021 Honda City Hatchback looks good, with hints of a Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Why drop the well recognized Jazz nameplate for the City Hatchback? Demands from customers in Japan and Europe – both of which have very strict CO2 emissions standards - are diverging too far away from demands of customers in our part of the world.


A reminder of how poor you are, 2021 was Porsche’s best ever year - 301,915 cars sold, up 11 percent

Porsche delivered 301,915 cars in 2021, up 11 percent from 2020. The figure is Porsche’s highest ever annual sales record, breaking the pre-pandemic era 2019’s record of 280,000 cars.
Never before in the company's 73-year history (since 1948) has more people bought a Porsche. If there was an economic slowdown last year, Porsche's customers never felt it.


Budget 2023: Gov allocates RM 50.2 billion for construction of MRT 3

RM 50.2 billion has been allocated to the construction of the MRT 3 project. Finance Minister Tengku Zafrul Aziz confirms that Phase 1 of the project is expected to be completed in 2028 while Phase 2 will be completed in 2030.
The MRT 3 project is the government’s commitment to complete the rail transportation loop in Kuala Lumpur. The track will span 50.8 km. The finance ministry expects the projected spending in 2023 to start at RM 3.3 billion.
Also read: Budget 2023: RM 20 million allocated to building drag circuits


Proton Iriz Active still falls short of the Perodua Myvi on one crucial aspect

In just two years after the facelifted Proton Iriz was launched, it has received yet another nip and tuck. This time, the range-topper gets a crossover-like outfit called the Iriz Active. Is it enough to convince buyers from the Perodua Myvi? Let us compare the range-topping variants of both.

Price Range Comparison

Proton Iriz
RM 40,300 - RM 54,000*

Perodua Myvi
RM 41,292 - RM 52,697*

*Prices stated above are OTR without insurance, with SST rebate, valid until 31-December 2021
Powertrain

Perodua Myvi (left), 2019 Proton Iriz (right)

The Perodua Myvi gets a 1.5-litre Dual-VVTi engine, making 103 PS and 137 Nm of torque that is mated to a 4-speed automatic. Despite its modest figures, it gets up to speed at an ease due to its relatively nimble weight of 1,015 kg.


Ativa-rivalling Honda SUV RS Concept: Est. sub-RM 80k price in Indonesia possible

After much teasing, it seems like Honda Indonesia is gearing up to put the Honda SUV RS Concept into series production real soon.
Our colleagues over at Autofun Indonesia recently spotted these curious entries in the NJKB Samsat DKI Jakarta website. Samsat is the Indonesian equivalent of our own JPJ.


Amazon Green discontinued for the Perodua Aruz, Toyota Rush also affected

Whilst going through Perodua’s brochure for the Perodua Aruz, we noticed that the Amazon Green colour has been discontinued.

That leaves Granite Grey, Electric Blue, Glittering Silver, and Ivory White as the available colours for the Perodua Aruz.


Proton's Adventure in the BTCC Part 1

Touring cars have always featured basically run-of-the-mill sedans that were bought by Joe Average. Some would go on to be iconic legends in the German DTM, the Japanese JTCC, or even the Australian V8 Supercars. But none achieve the ethos of full legendary transformation than the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC).

Still the coolest picture ever

Plenty of regular cars turned into icons thanks to the BTCC. Who could forget icons such as the Volvo 850 Wagon with blue and white Securicor livery or the simple red and white Alfa Romeo 155? While the BTCC had been racing since the 1950s, it wasn’t until 1990 that things really took off.


Not limited to the Toyota Rush, Perodua Aruz to also get new red colour

Rendering only

Following in the footsteps of the Toyota Rush, the Perodua Aruz will also be getting a new red colour option.

Toyota Rush

Sources close to the matter shared with WapCar.my that the colour will be named 'Passion Red', and it will be a metallic shade. It seems that the colour will only be offered on the range-topping AV variant.
Expect it to look identical from the Rush's new Red Metallic colour that we talked about last week.

The other colours available

The new colour brings the total number of body colours available on the Aruz to 5. The list comprises of the lone solid Ivory White, and the metallic Glittering Silver, Electric Blue, and Granite Grey.


Mercedes-Benz Malaysia releases a new GLA variant

The facelifted GLA, which was launched in 2017, gets a new Style Line variant.
The GLA Style Line is priced at RM 223,888 on-the-road without insurance. RM 21,000 cheaper or shall we say, less expensive than the Night Edition.
Powertrain remains the same with the 1.6-litre turbocharged in-line 4 rated at 156 PS and 250 Nm, sending power through a 7-speed 7G-DCT dual-clutch transmission.


RM 32K for a used VW Jetta, bargain in waiting?

So you're not one who favours buying a new car, but prefers scouring the used car markets instead. There is some logic to this thinking. Why buy a brand new Perodua Myvi when you can get a used VW Jetta for around the same money, or less?

To build a case for this, let's take a look at the VW Jetta, as prices of these cars have dropped to a very attractive price point. What is the catch? Well, you, the shopper will need to do your homework, that's the catch.


Used 5-year old F20 BMW 1 Series for under RM80k - How much to maintain and repair?

The BMW 1 Series is somewhat of an anomaly to the BMW range in Malaysia.
The 1 Series is envisioned as an entry model to the rest of the BMW range, but with prices almost nudging those of the seminal 3 Series, the 1 Series found lesser popularity amongst Malaysian buyers.

  Which would you buy as your first BMW?

Moreover, as opposed to BMW’s sedan and SUV models, the 1 Series doesn’t quite conjure the same X-factor rating as buying a 3 Series (or an X1 for that matter) as your first BMW.


Smart #1 could miss EV tax exemption window, Proton hopes extension will be considered

Proton announced yesterday morning that it will be setting up a new subsidiary called Proton New Energy Technology Sdn. Bhd. to sell a new range of electric Smart models. The Smart brand is now part of a joint venture between Geely and Mercedes-Benz, operating under Smart Co. Ltd, based in Ningbo, near Geely’s headquarters in Zhejiang, China.
Although Proton has yet to confirm Smart’s model line-up for Malaysia, the company says it aims to sell 800 to 1,000 Smart-branded electric vehicles per year, but due to shortage of cars (the Smart #1 is sold out in China until 2023), Proton is only able to commence local sales of Smart models in Q4 2023.
Also read: Geely's Smart #1: Q4 2023 launch, 800 to 1,000 units per year, to be Malaysia's best-selling EV?


MINI's 2021 worldwide sales hit 302,144 units, MINI Electric most in demand

MINI’s worldwide sales for 2021 reached 302,144 units, up 3.3 percent
MINI Electric is best-selling variant
Britain biggest market for MINI, followed by Germany, China, USA.

It looks like MINI may become an EV-only earlier than expected. Worldwide sales of MINI’s EV models, currently represented only by the MINI Electric (whose actual name is quite a mouthful – MINI Cooper SE 3-Door), nearly doubled last year, from 17,580 units in year 2020 to 34,851 units in 2021.

Between January to December 2021, MINI sold 302,144 cars globally, up 3.3 percent from the year before.


Owner Review:  From Typical to Atypical, My 2013 Peugeot 408 1.6 Turbo

** This article is published on WapCar Community, representing the opinion of users. Click the link below to enter the community for car enthusiasts in Malaysia https://forum.wapcar.my/

Basic information of my car:
2013 Peugeot 408 1.6 Turbo


The 2023 Toyota Innova Zenix lets you catch a glimpse of the sky with a panoramic sunroof for certain countries

We’ve already caught a frontal shot of the all-new third-generation 2023 Toyota Innova after Toyota Indonesia dropped the first teaser but now it appears that the most important angle will be the one from the top that we've yet to get as the more premium Innova will feature a panoramic sunroof.
Toyota Indonesia didn’t mince their words, christening it “the next prestigious crossover,” and while a brightened-up photo of the teased grille and headlights indicate a premium appearance, the features have to back up that claim as well.

  Expect to find the Dynamic Force mills under the hood of the new Innova

Expect some variants of the Innova Zenix being equipped with a panoramic sunroof; definitely a feature to be found in something that’s tossed around with description of “prestigious.” Nonetheless, not all markets will get the Innova with the sunroof.


Your budget EV wish granted? Neta V teased for Malaysia, 384 km NEDC range, only RM 68k in Thailand

Chinese electric vehicle (EV) carmaker Neta, a brand under Hozon Auto, has further signalled their intentions to enter the Malaysian market with their new website and social media pages.
We first heard of their plans back in August 2022 during their brand unveiling in Thailand. Since then, the brand has also entered Vietnam.
Also read: Hozon confirms EV plans for Malaysia, Neta V launched in Thailand at RM 68k, does 384 km


Father with 32 prior traffic records arrested for endangering children’s life

The Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) has arrested the father of the three children who were seen either sitting on the window sill or hanging their head out of a moving car. The incident is believed to have happened in Tambun, Ipoh.
According to a statement released by the Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT), the 37-year-old man was arrested in Sunway City at 9.30 pm on Thursday (24-March-2022).

The statement further revealed that they have also summoned the children aged between four to eight years old to aid with the investigation.


UMWT sold 7,579 vehicles in May 2022, 9.1% more than April

UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd (UMW Toyota) continues at a steady pace moving forward, registering sales of Toyota for the month of May at 7,442 units, while Lexus recorded a total sale of 137 units. As for UMW Toyota’s year-to-date (YTD) sales, the total number of Toyota and Lexus sold are at 36,972 units.

The overall sales for April were at 6,946 units (Toyota + Lexus) as compared to 7,579 units (Toyota + Lexus) registered total sales in May of the same year, marking an additional 633 units or 9.1 percent more compared to the month before.


Owner review: Attracted by Advertisement, My 2021 Honda Accord 1.5TCP

Basic information about my car:
Honda Accord 2021 1.5 TCP


Recond Toyota Voxy: Serena too common? Maybe this 7-seater MPV would be ideal

  Photo credit: 0325m on Minkara

The Toyota Voxy nameplate may be a new one to most Malaysians, but the model has been a hit in Japan.
Due to extremely long waiting periods for brand-new cars, many car buyers are resorting to recond cars such as the Toyota Voxy, which also explains the rising number of this 7-seater MPV here in Malaysia.
Overview – Better looking alternative to the Nissan Serena

The third-generation Voxy, codenamed ZRR80, is offered as a 7- or 8-seater. Think of the Toyota Voxy as a smaller Toyota Alphard. In markets where the Voxy is sold (Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan), it competes directly against similarly-sized rivals such as the Nissan Serena and Honda StepWGN.


Check out the Geely Binyue/Proton “X50” in Philippines, the Geely Coolray

Geely is looking to re-enter the Philippines market with the introduction of the popular Binyue SUV, which is now sold there as the Coolray. The Binyue has been immensely popular in the Chinese domestic market. Geely has already sold a record 100,000 units in just 8 months since its introduction.
Now Geely is hoping to see a repeat of the Binyue’s popularity to revive the brand in the Philippines market.


Review: 2021 Isuzu D-Max 3.0 X-Terrain - A better 'Hailak' than the Hilux?

For anything that is not a Toyota Hilux, making inroads in the pick-up truck segment is an uphill battle. Point at any random truck, and the responses will invariably be, "Oh, look at that Hailak." But, if any pick-up can change that this perception, it's the 2021 Isuzu D-Max 3.0 X-Terrain, the flagship of the range.
So, is the all-new D-Max good enough to have people ditching the Hailak moniker and turn the segment on its head? Can it really out-truck the usual suspects like the Toyota Hilux Rogue, The Mitsubishi Triton Athlete, and the Ford Ranger Wildtrak? All signs point to that, but first, let's dive in!


2020 Toyota RAV4 launching in Malaysia on 18 June, here's what you need to know

UMW Toyota Motor has announced that the all-new 2020 Toyota RAV4 will be launched (virtually) on 18-June. No further details have been shared but the interested customers can register their interest on UMW Toyota Motor’s website.
Here’s what we know so far:
The Toyota RAV4 will be imported from Japan, so don’t expect it to be cheap.


With 'Mercedes me', the new 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC is now more you

(2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC Prices & Specs | Gallery)
The new 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC has just been launched in Malaysia, roughly 10 months after the model made its global debut at the Geneva Motor Show back in February.
Prices start from RM 299,888 for the Mercedes-Benz GLC 200, while the GLC 300’s price is estimated at RM 350,000. Both prices are on-the-road, without insurance.


2021 Isuzu D-Max could gain hybrid option and more power

In a report by CarAdvice, Isuzu Ute Australia hints the addition of a more powerful variant of the Isuzu D-Max and MU-X, and the option of a hybrid powertrain.

Takeshi Imanari, the deputy general manager of product planning for Isuzu Ute Australia, said at a media conference, “We can't talk about future model plans. However, we understand some competitors are offering such higher-output models.”


Review: The Mazda CX-30 is a smaller (Yes), better value Mazda 3 but is it for you?

The oddly named Mazda CX-30 slots between the B-segment CX-3 and the C-segment CX-5. Why is called the CX-30 instead of a more logical CX-4 then? That's because the CX-4 already exists as a totally unrelated China-only model (based on the previous generation CX-5).
This 2020 Mazda CX-30 that you see here is Mazda's latest global product. It's a C-segment SUV, similar to the CX-5 but this one sits closer to the smaller Toyota C-HR than the larger CX-5.


Nissan aims at Sienta and Freed with new Note-based MPV, coming in 2023

  Rendered model by BestCarWeb

The MPV season is in full-swing as all three major Japanese marques have already, or will be debuting more MPVs in the near future. Nissan won't be resting their laurels with the C28 Serena, as rumours from Japan have pointed at a new Nissan MPV positioned below the Serena.
According to a report by BestCarWeb, Nissan is said to be developing a new MPV that’s based on the Nissan Note’s CMF-B platform, aimed squarely at rivals like the Toyota Sienta and Toyota Sienta.
Also Read: 2023 Toyota Sienta launched in Japan with beautiful Muji-style interior, OTA, TNGA with 1.5L hybrid or 1.5L Dynamic Force engines


Used car dealers in Malaysia experiencing record-high sales in July 2020

Looks like car manufacturers are not the only ones that are currently enjoying a surge in sales. Used-car dealers are also reporting record-high sales in the few months since the Recovery Movement Control Order was put into effect.
According to the Federation of Motor and Credit Companies Association of Malaysia (FMCCAM) president Datuk Tony Khor, the surge in demand for used cars is so good that the scenario is “simply too good to believe”.
The surge in vehicle sales is believed to be spurred by multiple factors. One of which is the government’s tax incentives introduced in June under the Short-Term Economic Recovery Plan (Penjana).


MINI Cooper S Convertible: Only 20 units, from RM 279,888

In conjunction with BMW Group Malaysia’s 60 Years Celebration of MINI, the company has announced that it will be adding a new variant to MINI Malaysia’s model line-up – the MINI Cooper S Convertible.
Soft top cars don’t have a huge following here in tropical Malaysia so it’s not surprising that MINI Malaysia’s allocation is limited to just 20 units.


New 2020 Perodua Bezza has 4 variants, G/X/AV - which to pick?

Perodua has given their only sedan a facelift. The 2020 Perodua Bezza is now sleeker with new modern touches but major changes have been made in terms of variants. So, what do you get in the various variants on offer? Here’s a quick guide.

As you know, the Bezza is now pricier than before and has gained 2 new colour schemes; Garnet Red (1.3-litre variants only) and Granite Grey.


What Daihatsu? Turn your Perodua D55L into a Lamborghini Urus instead!

While Perodua’s upcoming D55L crossover SUV might be launched in 2021, that doesn’t mean you can’t stop dreaming about how you want to give your future Perodua a makeover.
As it is already on sale in Japan as the Daihatsu Rocky/Toyota Raize, this gives the Japanese tuning maestros a chance to show ways to flex on the little crossover.


Perodua sold more cars in June 2020 than June 2019! Wait what?

Looks like car buying behaviour is returning to normal, as Perodua has bounced back with healthy sales number in June 2020 that even exceeds their total sales in June 2019!
Perodua wrapped up June 2020 with an estimated 21,250 cars sold. This number is the highest the brand has posted for the year 2020 and triple the sales number posted in May 2020 at 7,886 units.


Ride high this Chinese New Year with Mitsubishi

From now until the end of January 2020, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia is offering cash rebates for the Triton, Outlander and ASX.
For selected variants of the Triton, customers are entitled to either cash rebates or interest rate as low as 0.88%. Below is an overview of the promotion.


China's Hainan province to become the first region to ban ICE-only cars by 2030

China’s southernmost province, Hainan, has become the first region in the country to outright ban the sales of conventional internal combustion engine vehicles from 2030.
An announcement by the Hainan local government said it will ban sales of ICE-only vehicles as part of its Carbon-Peak Implementation Plan in an effort to curb C02 emissions on the island province, known for its tourism.

Xpeng P7

The plan, however, makes provisions for New Energy Vehicles (NEV) – an umbrella term used to refer to Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV), Plug-In Hybrids (PHEV), and Fuel-Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEV).


Most reliable CVT ever? All-new AC100 2023 Toyota Vios held up to 25 hours of endurance racing

  Photo credit: Super Turbo Thailand

Putting an automatic car on the racetrack sounds controversial enough, but say it has a CVT and things get rather heated. Cooling down is recommended.

  TGR Team Thailand and their fleet

But this CVT didn't need any of that. Enter team Toyota Gazoo Racing Motorsport Thailand's 2023 AC100 Toyota Vios (sold as the Yaris Ativ there), which completed the 2022 Idemitsu 25-Hour Super Endurance Race last December with nary a tow truck in sight.
Also read: To continue his teacher's dream, Akio Toyoda is racing in Thailand to show 5 solutions are better than 1


Video: 2021 Nissan Navara Pro 4X review in Malaysia - Enough to dethrone the Hilux Rogue?

Looking all menacing and intimidating, the new Nissan Navara Pro 4X is set to ruffle some feathers in the flagship pick-up truck segment. Sure, it is essentially a facelift, but this range-topping Navara Pro 4X has got such an extensive revision that it almost looks like an all-new model, the keyword here being 'looks'.

It's no secret that pick-up trucks of today are far more multi-talented than its utilitarian predecessors. The Nissan Navara Pro 4X is no different. It looks the part, has all the amenities that one expects in a modern automobile, and car-like road manners.


Upgrading from a Perodua Myvi to the Proton X50? Keep these in mind first!

We see many eager readers looking to put a Proton X50 in their porch. Some of you are also looking to trade-in whatever you have now too.
But if you're coming from, say, a Perodua Myvi, we'll show you why you shouldn't expect that maintaining an X50 is just the same as maintaining the hatchback.


Despite 2.1 mil units sold, Geely group sales drop 3.6% in 2020

Geely Holding saw 2020 sales exceeding 2.1 million units which might sound like good news but that figure accounts for a 3.6% loss compared to 2019.
In 2019, the Chinese conglomerate which consists of 3 subsidiaries – Geely Auto Group, Volvo Car Group, and Geely New Energy Commercial Vehicle Group – saw over 2.178 million units sold.


Owner Review: Fuel saving and fun driving, I own it all! My Story of Toyota Prius C

** This article is published on WapCar Community, represent the opinion of users. Click the link below to enter the community for car enthusiasts in Malaysia
https://forum.wapcar.my/

Basic information about my car:
Toyota Prius C


Concept kei car from Mitsubishi teased

Along with the MI-Tech concept, Mitsubishi has also teased the Super Height K-Wagon, a concept kei car. Kei cars are popular in Japan for its price and convenience. Its boxy design maximizes interior space while the compact dimensions makes it easy to park.
It features the MI-Pilot assistance for highway driving in the same-lane, forward collision mitigation braking, mis-acceleration mitigation and other advanced active safety systems.
The Super Height K-Wagon and the MI-Tech will be exhibited at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show, which is open to public from October 24th to November 4th.


Review: 2022 Proton Persona facelift – Is the jerky CVT finally fixed?

The first-generation Proton Persona is, to me, one of the best-looking Proton models ever made. My family used to own one for 10 years, so I’m definitely not biased at all. And ever since the current-generation Proton Persona came out, I just couldn’t get over the bulbous shape.

The bigger drawback, personally, is the Punch-sourced clutch-based CVT. Taking off from standstill in a seamless manner is a hit or miss exercise and you’d have to adapt your driving style to it.


Myvi driver's attempts to flee high-speed car crash foiled by witnesses

The Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) has arrested a man suspected to be the driver of the Perodua Myvi in the viral car crash circulating on social media yesterday. The suspect could be seen in various videos attempting to run away from the scene but witnesses managed to prevent him from escaping.

Selangor Traffic Investigation Unit (JSPT) Chief, Superintendent Azman Shari’at told media that the van driver suffered from severe injuries and is currently receiving treatment in Serdang Hospital red zone.
After he was captured, the 26-year-old suspect has now been handed over to the Serdang Investigative Unit (BSJT) for further action.


Closer look at the new 4-cylinder Geely Binyue Cool - the Proton X50 twin we never got

The Binyue Cool gains a new 4-cylinder engine
New exterior design and revamped cabin
Will go on sale in China soon

Now in its fourth year of its lifecycle, Geely is set to give its venerable Geely Binyue a massive update, encompassing revamped looks and a new powertrain.

Yes, new powertrain. The new Geely Binyue Cool (yes, that’s the name) is powered by a new turbocharged 1.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine, good for 181 PS and 290 Nm. The new engine is codenamed BHE15-EFZ.


Did you know that driving on an almost empty fuel tank could damage your fuel pump?

While most of us suffer from empty fuel tank anxiety the moment the fuel gauge drops to 2 bars, some risk-takers tend to push their cars to the very last drop of the fuel before refuelling. Did you know that this is not good for your car’s health?
Honda Malaysia recently uploaded a simple PSA on its Facebook page explaining that this is a rather common practice among car owners.


Rendered: Toyota Vios facelift looks like a baby Camry

We previously posted a rendered photo by Indian Autos Blog showing off their vision of the soon to arrive Toyota Vios facelift. Now another YouTube concept artist has decided to put their (figurative) pen to paper and present us with a new rendering.
Instead of drawing inspiration from the current Toyota Corolla Altis, the artist gave the Vios a more sophisticated front grille and sharper LED headlights.
Meanwhile, the back has a boxier design paired with tail lights connected by a chrome strip. The look is completed with honeycomb skirting and a silver diffuser.


Ningbo is where Zeekr's battle against Tesla will be planned out

Zeekr, the new pure electric premium brand from Geely Holding Group has announced the establishment of their global headquarters in the eastern Chinese coastal city of Ningbo earlier today.
Also read: Geely's premium EV, the Zeekr 001 debuts in China, around RM177k


Honda Malaysia launches Honda Official Merchandise on Shopee

Honda Malaysia jumps on board the e-commerce train with the launch of their Honda Official Merchandise store on Shopee. The new merchandise store will focus on selling the Honda TEI merchandise.
Honda Malaysia first introduced the special TEI series merchandise back in March 2020. Since then, the merchandise has been flying off the shelves of the various Honda dealers they were put on display, especially the Lifestyle collection in the series as it makes up 46 percent of the total sales.


Selling your car? Note that Puspakom centres are going cashless starting 1-Jan 2023

Starting 1-January 2023, all 54 Puspakom centres in the country will stop accepting cash transactions as they transition to a fully cashless system.
This means that Puspakom services such as vehicle inspection as well as the renewal of insurance and road tax will have to be paid either by E-Wallet, QR Pay, credit or debit cards.


Cheapest brand-new EV in Malaysia: Neta V debuts at RM 99k, first 100 buyers get RM 10k cash voucher

After much teasing, bookings are now opened for the Neta V. Prices start from RM 99,800 (on-the-road, without insurance), making the Neta V the cheapest electric vehicle (EV) in Malaysia at the time of writing. The first 100 customers who book online are also entitled to a RM 10k cash voucher, which brings the final price down to RM 89,800.

At the 2023 Malaysia Autoshow, Neta’s Malaysian distributor, Intro Synergy Sdn Bhd opened bookings for the new EV. The Neta V is imported (CBU) from China. Deliveries are expected to start in Q3 2023.


CMCO extended in 6 states, Perak and Negeri Sembilan move on to RMCO

The National Security Council (MKN) has announced that the Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) will be extended in Selangor, Johor, Kelantan, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Sarawak. Perak and Negeri Sembilan, previously also under CMCO will move on to Recovery MCO (RMCO).

CMCO in Selangor, Johor, Kelantan, Kuala Lumpur, and Penang will be implemented from 19 March to 31 March 2021. Sarawak will observe CMCO from 16 March to 29 March 2021.


Autobots, roll out! This is how Japan's undercover police cars drop their disguises

They look just like any normal car on the road, but with a flip of a switch, they turn into police cars to chase down baddies.
These cars are known as unmarked police cars. They are used to keep an eagle eye in the streets of Japan on any wrongdoings that official police cars missed.

How a standard Japanese police car looks like

Another reason why Japan uses unmarked patrol cars is because the standard police cars are just too easy to spot and it is human nature to start looking innocent to prevent yourself from getting into trouble.


Watch out Alphard, next-gen 2023 Nissan Elgrand in the works, 1.5 VC-Turbo possible

Rendered image by BestCarWeb

Despite being the OG luxury MPV in Japan, the Nissan Elgrand’s popularity did not last for very long. Rivals like the Toyota Alphard came along and ruined its party, relegating the Elgrand to the rear seat.
But if rumours from Japan are to be believed, the Alphard may soon need to watch its back as Nissan is said to be developing an all-new, fourth-generation Elgrand.
Also Read: Nissan Elgrand Mobile Work Suite – Forget the Vellfire, our Ministers need this instead

Rendered image by BestCarWeb

If true, then it would be a long-overdue upgrade, seeing that the current-generation Nissan Elgrand has been around since 2010. Over the year, Nissan has given this ageing MPV numerous updates, with the most recent update in October 2020.


Pakistan debut next for 2022 Chery Tiggo 8 Pro, CKD in the works

South Africa-spec Tiggo 8 Pro shown

Pakistan to debut Chery Tiggo 8 Pro soon
CKD works underway
Priced higher than the Proton X70

Shortly after making its debut in South Africa, the 2022 Chery Tiggo 8 Pro will be heading to Pakistan next, as seen on a recent social media posting.

The Wuhu-based company fired at Changan after the latter introduced the Changan Oshan X7 in Pakistan, with the caption saying “That was a good move but not extraordinary”.
Also Read: 10-year/1 million km warranty for 2022 Chery Tiggo 8 Pro, launched in South Africa


Still want a recond Vellfire? All-new Hyundai Staria debuts from RM99k in Korea

Over in Seoul, Hyundai has launched the all-new Hyundai Staria, a spacious MPV with a price range of 27 million won (RM 99,547) to 41 million won (RM 151,165), depending on options.
Aptly named the Staria, Hyundai’s new MPV evokes the streamlined form of a spaceship, defined by a single stroke running from the front to the rear of the vehicle.
According to Hyundai, this is inspired by the curve of light that illuminates the Earth’s horizon at sunrise when viewed from space.


29-July - 4-Aug Fuel Price Update: RON 97 up 1 sen, RON 95 and diesels unchanged

The end of July is upon us and with that comes another weekly fuel price update. Fuel prices from 29-July to 4-August 2021 will be as follows:

RON 95 – RM 2.05/litre (+RM 0.00)
RON 97 – RM 2.74/litre (+RM 0.01)
Diesel Euro 5 B10/B20 – RM 2.15/litre (+RM 0.00)
Diesel Euro 5 B7 – RM 2.25/litre (+RM 0.00)


China's Geely Binyue (Proton X50) now comes with selectable exhaust noise modes

The Geely Binyue - aka the Proton X50’s donor car - in China now allows drivers to can change the sound of the exhaust notes as they wish. The accessory is only available on the top-spec Geely Binyue Pro 260T DCT Battle variant.
Known as the Passion Sound Wave kit, Geely claims it uses an intelligent valve system that will adjust the valves' opening angle according to the drive mode selected.

Image credit: Bitauto

Drivers can choose between 3 drive-modes namely “Qing Liang” – translates to “Light”, “Peng Pai” – translates to “Surge”, and “Zha Jie” – translates to “Street Explosion”.


Ferrari F8 Spider launched in Malaysia – 720 PS/770 Nm, infinite headroom, from RM 1.1m before tax


Post SST: Here are the new 2022 prices for Mazda models - up by more than RM 5k across the board

The start of July heralded a new price for all new passenger cars in Malaysia as the sales tax (SST) exemption ended on 30-June-2022. Now that prices include SST, how much does a Mazda cost? Here is a complete price list for each Mazda model. Note that SST is 10 percent for both fully imported and locally assembled cars.
As expected, prices have increased for all Mazda models sold under Bermaz, with the exception of the Mazda BT-50 that is. The SST exemption/ discount is not applicable for commercial vehicles like pick-up trucks.


Owner Review: My 2000 Proton Satria GTi 1.8 5sp Manual (Modded)

** This article is published on WapCar Community, represent the opinion of users. Click the link below to enter the community for car enthusiasts in Malaysia
https://www.wapcar.my/forum

Basic information about my car:
2000 Proton Satria GTi 1.8 5sp Manual (Modded)


2021 BMW iX teased; 500 PS electric SUV coming to Malaysia

BMW Malaysia has teased the 2021 BMW iX, which suggests the introduction of the electric SUV (BMW uses the term SAV) here. The BMW iX is comparable with the BMW X5 in length and width, and is almost the same height as the BMW X6.

Despite being an electric car, the BMW iX features the famous (infamous?) vertical kidney grille. Whether beautiful or not, it certainly gives a visual impact.


How quiet and comfortable is the 2021 Perodua Ativa?

NVH stands for Noise, Vibration, and Harshness – a term we use to interpret the refinement of a car. The lower the NVH, the more refined and comfortable a car is. So, what’s the Perodua Ativa’s NVH level?
Before we start, we'd like to note that this is based on both objective measurements and subjective impressions as it is rather difficult to quantify the refinement of a car. With that out of the way, let's dive in.
Noise - Feels quieter than the numbers suggest