All-new 2nd gen Lexus NX to debut in mid-2021 with TNGA-K platform

The current Lexus NX made its global debut at the 2014 Beijing Auto Show, before going on sale later that year. The BMW X3- and Mercedes-Benz GLC-rivaling Lexus NX is now in the sixth year of its model life and a replacement is imminent in 2021.

Sales in Japan is still ongoing but Japanese dealers say an announcement on an second generation all-new Lexus NX can be expected in mid-2021.


The W223 Mercedes-Benz S-Class’ giant touchscreen is a bad sign of things to come

If you are curious to know what the future of cars will look like, look no further than the next Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Ever since the over-engineered slab-sided third-generation model of the 1990s, Mercedes-Benz has always stuffed their flagship full of the latest in-car features and gadgets.
As they say, if the S-Class has it, chances are your family hatchback will get it in a decade or so. And for the curious, it’s best to pay attention now with Mercedes-Benz set to reveal its seventh-generation iteration.


Leaked: Here's the new 2021 BMW M5, 600 PS and 750 Nm super sedan coming soon

The updated 2021 BMW M5 facelift has leaked onto the internet, hours before the model’s official debut.
Codenamed F90, the 2021 M5 LCI (Life Cycle Impulse, facelift in BMW language) features a number of visual updates carried over from the recently-updated G30 5 Series. Furthermore, it appears that the F90 M5 LCI is finished in Imola Red – one of BMW M’s signature colours.


Bankrupt for the second time? Borgward to bid farewell, again

It looks like the end is near for the revived German-Chinese marque Borgward, as reports coming out of China are saying that company will be undergoing bankruptcy proceedings.
An unnamed source told Pandaily, “Borgward is inevitably doomed. It never made it, no buyer is interested in taking it over, so bankruptcy is by far the most preferable option.” A final decision will likely be made in July.

German-spec Borgward BX7 pictured

While initial sales of the Borgward BX7 seemed promising, with 6,000 units sold at its peak, sales eventually tapered off soon afterwards. Despite announcing to sell 800,000 cars globally by 2020, the company barely sold 5,000 units in the first half of 2020.


BBS wheels files for bankruptcy, soon to be no more?

We’ve seen their beautiful weave patterns. Expensive as they are, they could get rarer as renowned wheel manufacturer, BBS, filed for bankruptcy a couple of days ago according to Hypebeast’s report.

Currently owned by South Korea’s NICE Holdings Co., the brand has specifically filed for a bankruptcy in Germany.


Limited Edition Ford Ranger Splash launched in Malaysia, available only on Lazada

Ford has embraced the online buying trend by unveiling the Limited Edition Ford Ranger Splash, in conjunction with the upcoming Lazada 11.11 Shopping Festival. It is the first pickup truck in Malaysia to be sold via e-Commerce.
Limited to 19 units, it is actually more than the 12 units of limited edition Beetle sold by Volkswagen almost 2 years ago. And like the Beetle, the Ranger Splash will be sold exclusively on Lazada.


Oil price highest since 2008, but Malaysia is not profiting from it, here’s why

Crude oil is now trading at its highest price since 2008. Yesterday, the Brent crude oil index climbed past USD 130 per barrel. Analysts say escalating conflict between Ukraine and Russia could worsen energy supply situation, pushing prices past USD 200 per barrel.
Closer to home, Malaysia’s crude oil export follow the Tapis index, which is now trading at around USD 132 per barrel, twice its average price in 2021.


2020 Proton X70 CKD gets stiffer suspension for better ride & handling

The 2020 Proton X70 CKD (locally assembled) brought about a number of surprises for consumers. Not only did it got a new 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) and improved kit list, Proton has also revised the suspension on the X70 CKD for better ride and handling.
In the fully imported (CBU) units of the X70, it received high praises for its stellar ride comfort. It absorbed and filtered road undulations like nothing else in the segment. However, the flip side of the slack suspension is that it doesn’t like corners all that much.

Proton X70 CBU

The X70 is a heavy car, close to 1.7 tons and the soft-ish suspension would induce quite a noticeable body roll. It’s nothing alarming but the rear passengers would experience a fair bit of rocking motion through the bends.


Thailand plans yet another tax reduction for electric cars, 3-year tax holiday is just the beginning

Despite the existing incentives for electric vehicles in Thailand, Finance Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith wants the Excise Department to reconsider which components of EVs deserve improved tax reductions to make them more enticing to consumers.
Electric cars in Thailand are already on a three-year tax holiday under the current excise tax structure in Thailand. (Jan 1 2020 to Dec 31 2022). This applies to car makers granted with Board of Investment (BoI) privileges*.
* Manufacturers that did not receive incentives are charged 8% tax.


It's called the Honda Civic FE, production specs leaked ahead of China launch

The current FC-generation Honda Civic has reached the tail-end of its lifecycle, seeing that the model is now six years old, as it was introduced back in 2015.

The Civic Prototype that was unveiled last year

Honda then showcased a prototype version of the all-new FE-generation Honda Civic in late-2020, giving us an early look at their newest sedan.

Model code identifies it as a Civic FE

LVH is Dongfeng Honda's VIN identifier, while FE is the Civic's model code

Now, courtesy of Chinese publications, we now have a clearer look at a production-version of the new FE Civic. At launch, Dongfeng Honda, which is one of Honda's partners in China, will introduce three variants of the FE-generation Civic, namely the entry-level Civic 180 and two variants of the Civic 240.


Proton to gradually reopen sales and service outlets from 5 May 2020

In light of the announcement made by the Prime Minister on Labour Day, Proton expects to reopen its sales and service outlets on 5 May 2020. However, it should be noted that this applies to outlets situated in green and yellow zones only, which will be based on requirements of all relevant authorities.
All premises and personnel will be subjected to strict safety protocols guided by the National Security Council (NSC) of Malaysia to curb the spread of Covid-19.


Owner Review: A 20-year-old car with all the modern equipment you need - My 2000 Mercedes-Benz W202 C230 Kompressor

** This article is published on WapCar Community. Click the link below to enter the community for car enthusiasts in Malaysia
https://www.wapcar.my/forum
Saiful Azzam Khairummuzammil

Basic information


Shopping for a C-segment SUV? The 2022 Honda CR-V is still the best all-rounder

You’ve probably seen the all-new 2023 Honda CR-V, but it hasn’t gone on sale in the US yet (at time of writing) and its arrival here in Malaysia isn’t expected until Q3 2023. That’s quite alright because the current-generation Honda CR-V is still the most complete C-segment SUV you can buy right now.
To recap, the Honda CR-V has three regular variants currently offered in Malaysia - 2.0 2WD, 1.5 TC-P 2WD, and 1.5 TC-P 4WD, priced at RM 146,900, RM 165,800, and RM 171,400 respectively. There is also the Black Edition model that is based on the 1.5 TC-P 2WD, which goes for RM 170,400.
What makes it an excellent all-rounder?


Honda Accord vs Honda CR-V; which car better suits your needs?

Honda Malaysia welcomed the tenth generation 2020 Honda Accord with a starting price of RM 185,900. Even after the recent price increase, the Honda CR-V’s range topper, 1.5L TC-P, is still priced below the base spec Accord 1.5L TC at RM 175,900. So, should you make the jump and pay RM 10,000 more for the lower spec Accord 1.5L TC?

In the new generation Accord, Honda has done away with the 2.0-litre and 2.4-litre engines in favour for a more fuel efficient 1.5-litre Turbocharged unit.


All-new 2023 Honda CR-V makes Chinese debut; 7-seater to come first, PHEV in the works

Back in May, Honda unveiled the first photos of the all-new 2023 Honda CR-V, now the SUV has made its debut in China as well. It is rumoured that Dongfeng Honda will officially launch the SUV at the end of this month (September) and will first be offered with a petrol engine and seven seats.
Gone is the sophisticated look of the current CR-V, the all-new generation will feature a sportier façade. Overall, the all-new CR-V has a very angular look thanks to the sharp headlight design and the angular bumper.


Target locked on Proton X90: Specs confirmed for CKD Chery Tiggo 8 Pro

If the Chery Omoda 5 aims for the small SUV segment, then the CKD Chery Tiggo 8 Pro aims for the bigger, plusher side of the market: the 7-seaters. Competition here might be made up of a fewer number of rivals, yet they still pose a formidable challenge.
Whether or not the Tiggo 8 Pro can nick sales away from the Toyota Innova Zenix and Proton X90 is still yet to be seen, but if first impressions count for something, boy do they have a shot.
Confirmed specs for Chery Tiggo 8 Pro in Malaysia


Bring on the Ranger, Australia unveils powerful 2023 Toyota Hilux GR Sport with 224 PS, 550 Nm!

Familiar name, yet not entirely the same recipe: the third permutation of the 2023 Toyota Hilux GR Sport is by far, the baddest one yet, diverging from the models trading under the same name in Thailand and Japan.

Australia's one is a proper GR, equipped with more power, wider tracks, tuned suspension, and bigger brakes. The ones for the Asian market are just visually done-up, and possess no performance updates beyond retuned suspension.


2022 Ford Ranger: RM 3.8 billion investment poured into Thailand for plant upgrades

With the next-gen Ford Ranger and Everest almost upon us, Ford Motor Company today unveiled a massive modernization initiative for its Thailand plant’s manufacturing operations to support production of the aforementioned pick-up and SUV.

The move is part of the Ford+ plan for growth and consumed USD 900 million (~RM 3.8 billion); making it the carmaker’s largest-ever single investment in Thailand and brings its total outlay in Thailand to USD 3.4 billion (~RM 14.4 billion) over 25 years.


What Is ADAS?

The Proton X70 has it. The Honda CR-V has it. Even a Perodua Myvi has a basic version of it. Different manufacturers refer to it in different names. Honda calls it Sensing, Mazda calls it i-ActivSense, Subaru calls it EyeSight, while Proton uses the generic ADAS term. So what is ADAS? Is it worth paying for? Is it reliable? What cars come with ADAS?

ADAS is short for Advanced Driver Assistance System. According to the European Automobile Manufacturers' Association (ACEA) code of practice for ADAS development, there are three types of driving tasks that we humans do every time we get behind the wheel – navigation, maneuvering, stabilization. ADAS features are designed to support driving actions in the last two categories.


MCO 2.0: Long-distance couples are allowed to travel interstate

The government has agreed to extend interstate travel permission to married couples who live apart due to work. Starting from 27 January 2021, couples who live apart are allowed to apply for the travel permit at police stations.
Senior (Defence) Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri made the announcement yesterday during the daily briefing held by the National Security Council (MKN). The decision was made to allow couples a chance to see their families during the Movement Control Order (MCO).
But before travelling, the council advises all travellers with Covid-19 symptoms to get treatments before they start their journeys.


MP: Clogged drains have to be cleared to prevent another flash flood in KL

In view of the flash floods that occurred yesterday afternoon in Kuala Lumpur, Lembah Pantai MP Fahmi Fadzil has urged federal territories minister Shahidan Kassim to mobilize resources to clean up all clogged drains in the city.
He also advocated for the creation of a flood warning system with the cooperation of telecommunications firms to alert occupants of floods in their area.


Hyundai’s wheel module is a glimpse into a very rotatable future

Man invented the wheel in the 4th century BC in Lower Mesopotamia. Since, then it’s come a long way but the core concept has pretty much remained unchanged. Understandable, seeing that there’s only so many ways to skin a cat.
However, while the wheel itself can only be spun so many ways, everything else around it is open for interpretation and innovation. That’s pretty much the approach Hyundai Mobis took with its e-corner module that combines the steering, braking, suspension and driving systems into a singular module that represents a huge leap forward for urban mobility.


Perodua Myvi awarded best city car by Indonesia’s Gen-Z

The Perodua Myvi is Malaysia’s most popular car but in Indonesia, the Myvi does not enjoy the same popularity. However, the car might have scored a new generation of fans.

The King, which is badged as the Daihatsu Sirion in the archipelago, was awarded the best city car award in the Marketeers Youth Choice Brands of the Year 2020.


Ora Good Cat is the "Most Anticipated Newcomer of the Year" at the Carlist Car of the Year 2022 awards

The Great Wall Motor’s (GWM) Ora Good Cat drove home with the Carlist.my Editors’ Choice Awards - Car of the Year for the “Most Anticipated Newcomer of the Year” at the award presentation held recently, pipping a number of other electric vehicles to take top honours in the category.
“We are proud of the recognition from Carlist.my for awarding the Ora Good Cat as the ‘Most Anticipated Newcomer of the Year’. This means a lot to us considering the model is the first electric vehicle we have introduced into the Malaysian market. This award motivates us to deliver better and greater solutions for Malaysians,” said Daniel Lai, GWM Malaysia Head of Brand & Communication.


2021 MG Extender facelift unveiled in Thailand – Enough to scare the Hilux and D-Max?

Launched in 2019, the MG Extender is the British-Chinese carmaker's attempt to persuade Thais for an alternative to the usual Toyota Hilux or Isuzu D-Max. The pick-up truck market is very big in the Kingdom after all, with nearly half of the new vehicles sold there in 2020 being a pick-up.

The pre-facelift Extender

A little under two years later, MG decided to give the Extender a facelift, and boy it looks striking indeed! Underneath, the Extender is a Maxus T60 that is available in Malaysia but unlike the Maxus, the MG Extender is purely for the Thai market.
Both Maxus and MG are under the ownership of SAIC Motor.


All-new 2023 Suzuki Swift rendered, looks suspiciously like the old one

Rendered image by BestCarWeb

The current fourth-generation Suzuki Swift has been around since 2017 and its replacement model is nearing.
Following spyshots of a prototype doing its rounds in Europe, BestCarWeb has posted their predictions for the next-generation Swift.

Photo credit: BestCarWeb

First is the new generation Swift’s platform. According to the Japanese outlet, the new generation Swift is expected to carry over the same Heartect B platform from the previous generation model, albeit with a lengthened wheelbase for improved ride comfort.
Also Read: New 2021 Suzuki Swift facelift launched in Thailand: 1.2L DualJet, CVT, 23 km/L


2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible launched in Malaysia, priced from RM 1.35 million

Lexus Malaysia has just launched the 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible in Malaysia. The brand-new soft-top convertible from Lexus is priced from RM 1.35 million (with SST, without insurance). Like the LC 500 Coupe, the LC 500 Convertible comes fully imported (CBU) from Toyota’s Motomachi plant in Japan.

Top-down

Compared to the LC 500 Coupe, the newly-introduced chop-top version of the LC 500 gains a new soft top – a first for Lexus. The choice of the soft top was to minimize the intrusion to the boot and cabin space, as hard tops tend to occupy more space.

Soft top up

The soft top, which is available in black or beige, can be opened or closed at speeds of up to 50 km/h. It takes approximately 15 seconds to open and approximately 16 seconds to close.


CAP: Introduce electronic card system for fuel subsidy, targeted aid for B40 and M40 groups

Amidst increasing talk of changes to Malaysia's fuel subsidy system, the Consumers' Association of Penang (CAP) has urged the government to hasten implementation of targeted fuel subsidies for those in the B40 group.
Mohideen Abdul Kader, president of the CAP, recommends the government to consider adopting an electronic subsidy card system to provide targeted subsidies to those in the B40 income groups.


KJ Line to continue operations after horrifying LRT accident injures 213 passengers

Last night, Malaysians witnessed the worst LRT accident in the service’s history. Prasarana Malaysia Berhad has released a statement saying that services will carry on today using one track and free shuttle bus services.
Dang Wangi OCPD ACP Mohamad Zainal Abdullah confirmed with Bernama about 213 passengers were injured, 47 suffered from severe injuries, 6 of which is reportedly in critical condition.

JUST IN : There has been an accident on the LRT Kelana Jaya line, specifically trains number 40 and 81. pic.twitter.com/MQodOJdyjJ window.googletag = window.googletag || {cmd: []}; googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.defineSlot('/22557728108/MY_Article_Middle_leaderboard_pc', [
  728,
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], 'div-gpt-ad-1670926945518-0').addService(googletag.pubads()); googletag.pubads().enableSingleRequest(); googletag.pubads().collapseEmptyDivs(); googletag.enableServices(); });  googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1670926945518-0'); });
— Elill (@Elill_E) May 24, 2021

According to news reports, the Trains 240 and 181 left the KLCC and Kampung Baru stations at 8.30 pm. Both trains were headed in opposite directions with Train 181 carrying 213 passengers while Train 240 was empty except for a driver.
At the time of the accident, Train 240 was driven manually back to Gombak for maintenance as the train was experiencing issues. Mohamad Zainal believes that there was a miscommunication between the train driver and the command centre that caused the head-on mishap.
Also read: Driver dies after car explodes; Firecrackers allegedly found in car

Last night’s LRT head-on collision: How it happened pic.twitter.com/lTkcYIpitC
— Free Malaysia Today (@fmtoday) May 25, 2021

Thankfully, the trains were travelling at low speeds when they crashed, Train 181 was reportedly travelling at 40 km/h while Train 240 was driven at 20 km/h.
In Malay Mail’s interview with the victims, it was discovered that Train 181 had been stopped on the track for at least 15 minutes before it started moving again. It wasn’t long after they started moving before the trains collided.
Also read: Watch: Is this the luckiest Perodua Myvi accident ever?

Two LRT trains have collided at an underground section near the KLCC station in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia pic.twitter.com/06lQMsm67w
— Didi (@hussaindidi) May 24, 2021

Free Malaysia Today’s latest reports also revealed that the driver of Train 240 could not ‘detect’ the oncoming train because of the possible miscommunication. Mohamad Zainal added that the 2 trains should not have been on the same track.
Various authorities, including Transport Minister Datuk Dr Wee Ka Siong, has called for an in-depth investigation on the matter. Mohamad Zainal confirmed that a task force will be set up to probe the accident.
Also read: BMW attempts to run over Rela when blocked from driving into one-way street

Meanwhile, the Kelana Jaya LRT service will continue operations following the accident. Trains will be running every 10 minutes during peak hours and 30 minutes at other times.
To facilitate passenger movements, Prasarana will also be deploying 5 double-decker shuttle buses (frequency between 15 and 20 minutes) to ferry passengers between Pasar Seni and Ampang Park stations.

Note that the train frequency may change according to the needs.
Thankfully, starting today, trains will be operating at 50% capacity following the changes to the Movement Control Order (MCO) 3.0 standard operating procedures (SOP).


Affordable AMG models for Indonesia, CKD Mercedes-AMG A35, GLA 35 launched

In conjunction with PT Mercedes-Benz Distribution Indonesia’s first ever track day, the manufacturer launched two new high-powered entry level models, the Mercedes-AMG A35 4Matic sedan and the Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 4Matic. Both models are locally-assembled (CKD) in PT Mercedes-Benz’s Indonesia plant.

The A35 4Matic Sedan and GLA 35 4Matic will join the existing AMG line-up that consist of the A35 Hatchback, CLA 45, and the G63. This will see the AMG offering expand to five models as Mercedes-Benz Indonesia shift its focus to a more performance-oriented offerings.


Malaysia-bound Volvo XC40 PHEV confirmed to use same powertrain as Proton X50

Volvo XC40 Recharge T5 at the 2020 Thailand International Motor Expo

The Volvo XC40 Recharge T5 plug-in hybrid has already gone on sale in Thailand, imported from Malaysia. Specifically, it’s imported from the Volvo Car Manufacturing’s plant in Shah Alam.
The Volvo XC40 is the only model in Volvo Car Malaysia’s line-up to not be offered as a plug-in hybrid, so it’s only a matter of time before the plug-in hybrid variant is launched in Malaysia.

Currently, the XC40 is only offered in Malaysia in one T5 R-Design AWD variant, priced from RM 241,450 (SST-exempted, valid until 31-Dec 2020).


Toyota’s Countermeasure Towards Pedal Misapplication

Do you have a thrilling clip when driving? Misusing the pedal and causing the accidental acceleration; In case of emergency,  your foot accidentally pressed the throttle and not the break.
Such incidents could lead to accidents, losses, and sometimes even injuries to relevant personnel. It’s a headache in any countries.
According to reports from overseas media, on July 5, Japan's Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism Ministry asked Toyota and seven other major automakers to make a solution for accidents caused by misapplication of the accelerator.


Video: Kia shows off the charms of updated 2022 Kia Ray EV in a series of videos

In case you missed it, Kia has finally given the Kia Ray EV a major update last month. Now the company is showing off the charms of the car in a series of videos from the abundance of storage spaces to the unique seating configurations the Ray EV can offer.
The latest update is the second major facelift the company has given the car. The launch of the new Ray also marks the company’s re-entry into the small electric vehicle (EV) scene.


Guaranteed resale value - There's a smarter way to own a Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Guaranteed Future Value is like a warranty on the resale price of your car
Short 3-year tenure repayment with the Agility+ program is equivalent to a 7-year long tenure with conventional fixed-rate financing
When the contract ends, you can sign up for a new car, or buy it over without having to pay a large sum balloon payment

Jamaican activist Marcus Garvey once said, “Progress is the attraction that moves humanity”. Mankind’s nature to question a question, learn and evolve is the basis of all technological and socioeconomic advancement we see in the world today.
But to progress, we first need to be dissatisfied. It is perhaps the guiding principle behind every new Mercedes-Benz vehicle; to be dissatisfied first, before pushing the envelope of design, engineering and craftsmanship ever further.


All-new 2023 Lexus RX to debut on 1-June; model to get TNGA chassis, PHEV tech for the first time

Signing the papers on a Lexus has always been contrarian to the conventional idea of aiming for the three-pointed star or reaching for a certain blue-and-white roundel, but we'll be damned if the Lexus RX proves that that's one of the better decisions to make. And next month, the all-new 2023 Lexus RX will debut, aiming to solidify camp Japan's offering.

A teaser of the all-new model

Set to premiere via an online event on Wednesday, 1-June 2022, 8 am Malaysian time, the 2023 RX will be the fifth generation to bear the Radiant Crossover initials, ending the previous-gen's 7-year run. The world premiere can be accessed via this link.
Also read: Ratings: Top 10 quietest cars we've tested - 6 cylinders quieter than electric?


Owner Review: Allrounders, style substance and safety, the Panda for my family-My 2020 Mazda CX8 2.5

** 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:
2020 Mazda CX8 2.5 MID


Proton's subsidiary Pro-Net launches Smart Malaysia's official FB page

Two months after signing the General Distributorship Agreement, Proton’s subsidiary Pro-Net (Proton New Energy Technology) has launched the official Facebook page for Smart Malaysia.
Pro-Net is now the official distributor of Smart vehicles in Malaysia and Thailand. The newly revamped Smart is now an electric-only small car specialist co-owned by Geely and Mercedes-Benz.
Also read: Proton signs deal to sell Geely-Mercedes' Smart EV models; Sales by Q4 2023, own charging network planned


Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, VW Passat: Which D-sedan has the best resale value in Malaysia?

Malaysia's D-segment sedan market isn't what one can term as 'rapidly growing' - that's an honour SUVs wear. But for those looking for 'big cars' to impress family members with, the used car market is certainly a compelling place to look.
So this is what we'll do today: we'll be comparing the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Volkswagen Passat in this edition of our resale value battle. To keep things fair, we only selected models that were updated/introduced for the 2017 model year.
Toyota Camry - King of the segment?


GAC subjects Trumpchi M8 MPV to crash test with 8.6-tonne truck, passengers unharmed

When it comes to crash testing, car manufacturers typically crash test their cars in test labs, under controlled circumstances, without involving another different-size vehicle.
But GAC, in an effort to showcase the safety of the Trumpchi M8 MPV, subjected the model to a very unusual crash test, involving a pair of trucks.


Can you spot the Perodua parts in this D92A 2023 Toyota Vios?

D92A 2023 Toyota Vios teased
New B-segment sedan to launch on 9-August
Lots of shared parts with Ativa and Alza, can you spot them?

Recently, Toyota dropped teasers of the D92A 2023 Toyota Vios, a new generation B-segment sedan that will take over the mantle from the current-generation model, which has been around since 2013. It will be sold in Thailand as the Yaris Ativ with a smaller 1.2-litre engine, different from our Vios which gets a larger 1.5-litre engine.

In the short 15-second video that Toyota posted, it gives us a quick glimpse at the new Vios’ cabin, as well as bits of the exterior.


Consumer survey: Lexus NX and CT200h are UK’s most reliable cars

According to a survey by the UK’s largest consumer body Which?, Lexus is UK’s most reliable car brand, ahead of second-place Toyota.

Which?’s latest survey of 47,000 UK motorists, covering almost 59,000 individual vehicles revealed zero faults with the Lexus CT200h and a near-perfect performance for the Lexus NX.


No more under wraps, no cheap renders, this is the real D74A 2023 Perodua Axia

That's it, the wraps have come off the all-new D74A 2023 Perodua Axia! Here's two early images given by P2 themselves to give you a better look of the upcoming hatchback.

Here's the front of the all-new Axia AV variant. Spot the details – there's LED headlights, LED daytime running lights (DRLs), and even stereo Advanced Safety Assist cameras up top.


For RM 150k more than the EQS 500, what do you get on the Mercedes-AMG EQS 53?

With Mercedes-Benz pushing forwards towards embracing fully-electric vehicles (EVs), even its performance division is amping itself up. The Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4Matic+ is the first dedicated EV tuned by the masters at Affalterbach but it is not the only one.

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) has just launched the Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4Matic+ along with the Mercedes-AMG EQE 53 4Matic+ at Zepp KL. However, in this article, we’ll just be comparing the two EQS variants offered in Malaysia.


This RM 200m plant is why Perodua will continue using 4-speed automatics for many more years to come

Don’t expect Perodua to ditch its aging but proven 4-speed torque converter automatic transmissions anytime soon. Even as the rest of the world is trending towards CVT-type automatic transmission for city cars, Perodua’s tried and tested Akashi Kikai 4-speed automatic transmissions will continue to be sold in Malaysia for many more years to come.
There’s a simple reason to that. Perodua’s customers are happy with what’s offered to them right now, so why bother changing something that’s not broken?


Goodbye 4AT, next-gen Perodua Alza to get Ativa's D-CVT instead

The outgoing Perodua Alza’s dated four-speed automatic transmission will soon make way for a more modern CVT transmission upon the introduction of the next-generation model. Judging from Perodua's record of filtering down new features from their technology showcase models, there's a good possibility that the next-gen Alza will get the CVT transmission from the Ativa.

This will also applies to the next-generation Toyota Avanza which is rumoured to form the basis for the next-gen Perodua Alza.


Awas will be watching as you enter and exit the Menora Tunnel in Ipoh

The Road Transport Department (JPJ) recently approved the installation of 4 new Automated Awareness Safety System (Awas) cameras near the entry and exit ways of the Menora Tunnel on the North-South Expressway.
The cameras are courtesy of Plus Malaysia Bhd and will be used to monitor the traffic for north and south-bound traffic around the accident hot spot.
According to the JPJ director-general, the area around the Menora Tunnel has been an accident hot spot for years. This is due to the steep slopes, sharp bends, as well as downhill stretches before and after the tunnel.


Mazda starts Collect and Delivery service! No, it’s not food

Now that the Movement Control Order has been partially lifted, Bermaz Auto Group has announced that they will resume operations starting from 12th May 2020. Along with the reopening of services also came the introduction of the Mazda Contactless Service and an extension of warranties on Mazda cars as well.
Like all service centres, Bermaz will be implementing disinfecting procedures on their premises and even the interior of all cars before and after service.
Along with the safety procedures, Bermaz has also introduced a new Mazda Contactless Service. Mazda owners can now make an appointment to have a team pick-up their cars for the service and then delivered back to them after the service. The Collect and Delivery service is available at selected service centres and limited to Mazda owners within a 10 km radius of the centre.


This Christmas, Lexus wants you to experience Unwrap Amazing

Lexus showrooms nationwide will be hosting an Unwrap Amazing customer experience event this weekend 7-8 December (next weekend 14-15 Dec. for Lexus Ipoh).
Customers are invited to experience Lexus vehicles up close. As a token of appreciation, customers who complete a test drive will also receive a gift.


Haval H6 airbags failed to deploy in C-NCAP crash test, cries foul over improper test

While the Haval H6 may have overtaken the Geely Boyue (Proton X70 to us) as the best-selling SUV in China, recent events could slow sales down a bit.

The reason is because a recent crash test of the Haval H6 by China’s C-NCAP raised an eyebrow or two amongst the automotive scene in China.


In Thailand, new Volvo cars are protected from the sun

Volvo Cars Thailand (VCT) has taken quality control to the next level with the opening of a new warehouse. VCT knows the new warehouse as the Central Distribution and Training Centre (CDTC) and not only will it function as a distribution centre in the region but a training and service centre as well.

VCT Managing Director Chris Wailes

As you know, VCT currently does not have a production plant in Thailand. The manufacturers rely on imports from Volvo Car’s various plants across the world, including Malaysia (Volvo XC40 and Volvo XC60).


Want an electric car? Here are EVs available in Malaysia and her neighbouring countries

So, you’re tired of combustion engines and you’re thinking of getting an electric car for yourself – whether in the near or far future. Do you really have options as a Malaysian?
Well, I hate to break it to you, but most of them are far from being affordable for the masses. But one can dream, right? So, let’s entertain the thought and daydream of shopping for an EV.

We wish the Honda E was available in Malaysia. Unfortunately, it's only for Japan and Europe.

Here are a few cars within our vicinity (starting with the most accessible dealerships and lowest prices).


Top-5 reasons why the Suzuki Swift Sport needs to make a comeback

In 2015, Proton signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and Licence Agreement with Suzuki and DRB-Hicom to form a collaboration. Subsequently, Suzuki ceased its sales and production operation in Malaysia which led to the conversion of Suzuki outlets to Proton. Then came the Proton Ertiga but we digress.

Suzuki has been absent in Malaysia for about 4 years now and the last Suzuki Swift Sport officially available in Malaysia was the third-generation model, codenamed ZC32S.


President Biden's Cadillac 'The Beast' makes a Lexus LS look like an IS

Last week, US President Joe Biden made his first official visit to Asia, to meet with Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio and attend the Quad Leaders’ Summit.
Typical of US Presidents, Biden brought his own convoy of vehicles. Protocol of the US Secret Service guarding the President means that the President must only travel in his own armoured vehicle, accompanied by a convoy security vehicles, including his own ambulance, communication vehicles, and of course, weapons assault vehicles.

Electronic defence countermeasures vehicle (left)

The President’s motorcade include two identical Cadillac limousines (one to serve as a decoy), nicknamed The Beast, which is not only bulletproof, but also has its own air supply to protect its occupants against biological or chemical attacks.


Increasingly powerful cars + overconfident drivers, recipe for disaster?

Recently, we've seen a spate of crashes/accidents involving high-performance cars. Most of these mishaps seem due to misplaced confidence. It's one thing to lose control unknowingly, it's another to turn off stability controls on a public road. This isn't uncommon. There are even YouTube channels dedicated to documenting crashes involving high-powered cars.

Let's take a moment to explore why these crashes happen so frequently. Is it a driver problem? Or have cars just become so powerful, the average driver cannot handle them? Time to find out.


Ahead of Malaysia, all-new 2021 Isuzu D-Max to be launched in the Philippines in March

Isuzu Philippines has released teaser images on their Facebook page on the arrival of the all-new 2021 Isuzu D-Max in the country. According to the teasers, the all-new D-Max will be launched virtually via Facebook and YouTube on 4-March 2021.

Based on the few teasers that were uploaded, the Filipino-spec D-Max could resemble that of the Thai-spec D-Max. As such, the Filipino D-Max will be imported from Thailand.


Spied: RHD 2021 Hyundai Staria caught testing in Thailand – Is this the reborn Estima?

Last week, Hyundai officially released more photos of the 2021 Hyundai Staria and it wouldn’t be surprising if the designers’ mood board contains Daft Punk, 2001: A Space Odyssey, and NASA because it looks so futuristic.

However, we recently discovered spyshots of a Staria undergoing testing in Thailand courtesy of Car News Update. Based on the photos, the camouflaged Staria was decked out in black cladding but we did see glimpses of the dark grey paint job.


BMW i4 launching in Malaysia soon; Johor to Ipoh in one charge

First teased by BMW Malaysia earlier this year, it’s now confirmed that the BMW i4 is set to be launched soon, joining the new range of electric offerings by BMW that includes the BMW iX and iX3.

Detailed specifications have yet to be released, though the press release states, "the sports sedan offers the electrical power output of up to 340 PS, a 0-100km/h in 5.7 seconds and a WLTP electric driving range of up to 590 km on a single charge."


Pros and Cons: 2020 Perodua Bezza – Excellent fuel economy but why the fixed steering?

The Perodua Bezza is Perodua’s first-ever sedan, developed from the ground-up utilizing the Perodua Axia’s platform. It competes directly against the Proton Saga in the A-segment sedan market.

It received its mid-life update back in January 2020, whereby the little sedan from Perodua received a restyled exterior, additional safety equipment, and new interior trim. Powertrain options remain unchanged.


Warranty for used and recond cars; here’s what you need to know

Picture this: you recently purchased a decent-looking used car, but problems start to arise. You take the car back to the dealer whom you bought it from and the dealer tells you that the problem you’re having is not covered under warranty, despite the fact that you were told that the car comes with a six-month warranty.

What is the reason for that? After all, when you bought the car, the listing did mention that the used car dealer offers a warranty on the cars they sell.


What do the labels on your car’s windows mean?

If you look closely at the windows of your car you will notice some type of markings and text and on it. What do they mean exactly?
Well, this isn’t really important information, but since you’ve reached here, we’ll answer this question for you.
Car brand and glass manufacturer stamp
Usually located on the bottom corner of your window, one of the most obvious things in the cluster of text and shapes is the car’s brand. Depending on the car brand, this is sometimes present and sometimes not.


RM 150k and up to 20 years in jail for driving under influence

The promise to impose harsher punishment against offenders driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol (DUI) have been passed at Parliament today. Repeated offenders will now incur a jail sentence of 20 years and RM 150,000 fine if caught in a DUI with a previous record.
The same punishment will also be imposed on repeat offenders on reckless driving. First-time offenders will face harsher penalties of 15 years in jail and RM 100,000 fine. Currently, the penalties for first-time offenders are 10 years imprisonment and RM 20,000 fine.
These pending amendments of the Road and Transport Act 1987 (Act 333) are still being finalised.


Why the VW Tiguan Allspace has ridges on its roof?

Earlier today, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) launched its first-ever VW Tiguan Allspace, a long wheelbase, 7-seater (more like a 5+2 seater) version of the regular VW Tiguan.

The Tiguan Allspace is available in two variants – a 1.4 TSI Highline (150 PS/250 Nm) and a 2.0 TSI R-Line (220 PS/350 Nm), the latter is basically a taller Golf GTI with seven seats, adaptive DCC dampers included. The models, all locally-assembled (CKD) in Pekan, will be sold alongside the existing 5-seater Tiguan.


Covid-19: Proton reminds all owners to service their cars within 30 days MCO ends

As our country observes the need of an extended Movement Control Order, Proton has announced the extension of warranties and that no penalties will be imposed on owners who have missed a scheduled service during the lockdown.
The most important part is that Proton will be extending all warranties expiring during the month-long lockdown period. The expiry will be extended another 30 days or 1,000 km following the final day of the MCO.


Singapore's 2021 Hyundai Palisade could offer clues to the Malaysian-spec car

The stocky 2021 Hyundai Palisade is a model that's launching in Malaysia this year, with aims to turn heads away from the equally-massive Mazda CX-9.

However, we aren't the first in this region to get the model - Indonesia, and most recently Singapore introduced the SUV, the latter of which we'll be taking a look at here.


All-new 2022 Geely Boyue to get Volvo XC40's CMA platform, China launch later this year

The Geely Boyue X is the most recent update

The Geely Boyue, sold here as the Proton X70, has entered its seventh year of its model lifecycle. To keep it competitive against newer rivals like the Haval H6, a brand-new model is needed.

There are noticeable changes in the Boyue X's interior

According to a recent report out of China, Geely could be introducing a brand-new Boyue as soon as later this year, underpinned by the Volvo XC40’s CMA platform.
Also Read: Geely confirms next gen 2022 Geely Boyue, to use Volvo XC40’s CMA platform

Geely Xingyue L is the second model to get the CMA platform

As such, the new generation Boyue will likely be the third model in Geely’s line-up to get the CMA platform, after the Xingyue and Xingyue L.


Want to buy a 2022 Proton Persona? Here’s the minimum salary required

Proton has launched its second facelift for the Proton Persona. Prices for the facelifted Proton Persona starts at RM 45,200 and tops out at RM 54,900. These include SST discounts that are valid till 31-December 2021.

Question is, what’s the minimum salary you need before you can apply for a loan?


Toyota takes 5 percent stake in Suzuki, forms new capital alliance

Toyota takes 4.94 percent of Suzuki
Suzuki acquires 0.2 percent of Toyota
Suzuki to gain Toyota’s hybrid tech while Toyota gains Suzuki’s engine for compact cars, plus expertise in India

Following a joint announcement by Toyota and Suzuki earlier in March, both companies have confirmed today that they will form a capital alliance.
The deal, still subject to approval by the respective countries’ competition authorities, will see Toyota acquiring 4.94 percent of Suzuki via the purchase of 24 million of Suzuki’s common stocks valued at JPY 96 billion. Meanwhile, Suzuki will acquire JPY 48 billion worth of Toyota shares in the open market, which based on Toyota’s current market capitalization of JPY 22.48 trillion, translates to about 0.2 percent of Toyota.

Prior to this, Toyota had already begun ad-hoc collaborations with Suzuki in India, most recently being the supply of Suzuki's India-made Baleno to Toyota, which Toyota dealers in India sell as the Glanza.


Go Auto to head green vehicle project in Kedah, RM 1.5b investment

Kedah has big plans to become a green technology vehicle assembly hub and major defence industry in Southeast Asia as the state is poised to receive an investment of RM 1.5 billion in green vehicle technology and defence equipment industries headed by Go Auto Group and Flumen Holdings Sdn Bhd.

Kedah Menteri Besar Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor told Bernama: “Both companies are major players in the energy-efficient vehicle (EEV) and green technology industry as well as being involved in the supply of defence equipment and information technology.”


Watch out 3 Series, C-Class - Tesla's presence in Malaysia would disrupt the premium segment

RM 200k - RM 300k BMW and Mercedes-Benz models to be most impacted by Tesla's launch in Malaysia.
Tax-exempted EVs will offer a much-awaited third choice to buyers.
Novelty of having a new toy to one up their peers outweighs the potential downsides of limited charging infrastructure.

Tesla's entry into the Malaysian market is expected to disrupt the premium car segment, with the most significant impact being felt by established players such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

One of the key reasons why premium brands such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and more, should brace themselves for Tesla's arrival is the price range of the Model Y, which is estimated to start from RM 199,000 for the standard rear-wheel drive variant to RM 288,000 for the AWD Performance variant.


Perodua: We were not consulted on excise duty change, still studying impact of increase in car prices

Perodua has confirmed that the Malaysian government has revised the excise duty structure for cars in Malaysia, but added that the impact for Perodua will likely be minimal and the company will try its best to not pass any additional cost to buyers.
Speaking at a press conference earlier today, President and CEO Datuk Zainal Abidin Ahmad said, “For Perodua, we have been following all the requirements given by the government, as far as declaration is concerned. At the moment, we are still evaluating what is the impact for us, but rest assured for the next few months, there will be no increase in prices.
“At this moment, I am saying we are trying to minimize the impact. We are studying, we are evaluating what is the impact. As much as possible we don’t want to pass the impact to customers.”


7 legendary turbocharged Daihatsu models that precede the Perodua D55L

The Perodua D55L’s official launch date is fast approaching and the SUV will feature many firsts for the brand. This includes the first model to be built on the DNGA platform and the first to get a CVT gearbox. Apart from those, the D55L will also be the first Perodua model to be powered by a turbocharged engine.
Read also: Quick review: 2021 Perodua D55L – The best Perodua to date?


Spied: Hyundai Custo MPV sans camouflage

Previously we reported that Hyundai has an MPV named the Hyundai Custo in the works in China, but our previous reports are of an MPV in the compact segment. Now clear spy shots of the MPV in China have surfaced on the internet and we discovered that the Custo is not a small MPV at all.
At first glance, the Hyundai Custo looked to be in bad shape, even the front tow hook is deployed! We suspect this could be a result of having its camouflage stickers removed.


BMW X5 PHEV vs Volvo XC90 T8 - Which is the better buy?

BMW Malaysia recently unveiled the BMW X5 PHEV, priced from RM 440,745 (without SST). Meanwhile, the Volvo XC90 T8 Inscription Plus goes for RM 391,150 (without SST).


2021 Nissan Magnite to launch in Indonesia! Smaller than Kicks, Malaysia next?

Nissan Indonesia isn’t done yet with 2020 as they have just teased the pending arrival of the new 2021 Nissan Magnite. The Nissan Magnite is a sub-4-metre compact SUV that slots below the Nissan Kicks and powered by a 1.0-litre turbocharged engine.

Though Nissan did not clearly confirm that the car in question is the Nissan Magnite but considering that the Nissan Kicks is already on sale in Indonesia, the only other compact SUV the company currently has in their arsenal is Magnite.


2020 Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series released - 740 PS & 800 Nm!

With the unveiling of the 2020 Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series, Mercedes-AMG finally gives its flagship supercar the Black Series treatment. It is also the most powerful V8-powered car ever from Mercedes-AMG.

Like all Black Series cars AMG had released since 2006, this is no ordinary AMG GT. The masters at Affalterbach have managed to pull out an impressive 740 PS and 800 Nm from its newly-designed 4.0-litre flat V8 engine.


Mitsubishi Motors to slash prices by up to RM 8,154 for the Outlander and ASX

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM), announced a new price list for the Mitsubishi ASX Compact SUV and Outlander SUV in Malaysia. The new prices are effective immediately until 31 December 2020.
The price reduction is in view of the Malaysian government’s announcement to drop Sales and Service tax (SST) for cars, which sees a 100% sales tax exemption on locally-assembled (CKD) models.


The 2021 Perodua Ativa is more Malaysian than the Proton X50?

Yes, you read that correctly – the recently-launched 2021 Perodua Ativa is more Malaysian than the Proton X50.

Recall that when Proton introduced the Proton X50 back in October 2020, the company stated that the new SUV has around 45% local content at launch and has 406 unique parts compared to the Geely Binyue donor car.


New 2019 Perodua Axia adds ASA 2.0 and VSC, safest budget car on sale

Open for bookings but new 2019 design yet to be revealed
AV variant adds ASA 2.0 advanced driver assistance system and reverse camera
Electronic stability (VSC) and traction control now offered – upper variants only
Adds two new variants - GXtra and Style (rumoured to be a taller riding crossover)
Reduced manual transmission variants, E variant is sole MT variant

Nearly five years after its market launch in 2014, the Perodua Axia has been given its second mid-life update (there was another update in 2017). Perodua has yet to reveal the actual car but prices have been announced and interested customers can place their bookings starting today.
This time around, Perodua has significantly upgraded the Axia’s safety features to include the Advanced Safety Assist (ASA) feature first seen in the Myvi and Aruz. Other new features include electronic stability and traction control and reverse camera.
It is also interesting to note that the new Axia gets the latest ASA 2.0, which has an expanded scope of functionality compared to the one fitted in the more expensive Myvi (from RM 42,790).


The new 2023 Nissan LEAF has a secret weapon that makes it the best EV to own in Malaysia

2023 Nissan LEAF comes with a host of updates
Offered with a subscription plan, free from concerns on depreciation and battery replacement cost
Ideal for short term ownership

This post is sponsored by Edaran Tan Chong Motor

It goes without saying that cars are a major purchase in life, likely the second biggest after a house. It’s one of the reasons why many of us opt for the sensible options with a proven track record of reliability, low running costs, and established after sales support to minimise the uncertainties.


Free 15 months installment for a brand-new Subaru Forester? What's the catch?

Last week, TC Subaru Sdn Bhd announced a very enticing offer called Drive Now, Pay Later with Maybank. Going through Subaru’s press release did not reveal any information, so we went ahead and checked with Subaru dealers ourselves.

So, what’s the catch?


Up close with the 2021 Honda HR-V SE, the final hurrah to the B-SUV that started it all

If the Perodua Myvi is dubbed the King of Malaysian roads, the title of Queen might belong to the second-generation Honda HR-V. The compact B-SUV is regarded as the pioneer of the growing and ever so popular segment when it was introduced in Malaysia in 2015.

After six years on sale and becoming a trendsetter, Honda Malaysia is about to bring in the all-new third-gen HR-V (on sale in Japan as the Vezel). As a swansong, it has launched the limited-edition HR-V SE but unlike other manufacturers that slap on bodykits and stickers before calling it a day, Honda adds a safety feature on its run-out variant.


Review: 2020 Mercedes-Benz C200 AMG Line - Style over substance?

There’s a quote by a former US president that goes, “Comparison is the thief of joy.” A car that reminded me of the quote is the 2020 Mercedes-Benz C200 AMG Line.

Why did I say so? Well, when we buy cars, chances are, we’ll make a shortlist and then compare the candidates. In this case, if you’re in the market for a compact executive sedan, the 2020 Mercedes-Benz C200 AMG Line is likely on your shortlist along with its rivals like the G20 BMW 320i Sport or the Volvo S60 T8 R-Design.


2020 Toyota Alphard and Vellfire adds Toyota Safety Sense, new infotainment, price up by over RM 20,000

Malaysia’s (and the rest of Asia’s) most loved status symbol wheels – the Toyota Alphard and Toyota Vellfire twins – have been updated for 2020.

Both the Alphard’s and Vellfire’s list of safety features have been bumped up further with the addition of Toyota Safety Sense’s full suite of advanced driving aids (ADAS). It now comes with Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert, Lane Tracing Assist, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (with stop-go), automatic high beam, and accelerator pedal misapplication (Parking Support Brake System).


Rendered: the all-new 4th generation 2020 Kia Carnival rear end

It has been 6 years since the current Kia Carnival turned up in the market and won hearts with its the stylish looks and powerful engine. Now Kia has given the popular MPV a facelift and the presence of the new Porsche-like tail lights is getting everyone curious how it would fit in the new boxy design. Here’s a rendering of how the all-new fourth generation 2020 Kia Carnival will possibly look.
We have previously seen leaked images of the new Carnival’s bumper, so we know that the MPV will debut with a boxier design than the current look. But when spy shots of the Carnival surfaced, the most notable feature that caught our attentions was the horizontal tail lights that resembles that of the Porsche 911.


Goldmine: RM 55k for this 1971 Datsun 510 Bluebird 1600 SSS, sold in less than a day!

Image: Assry Mindwarp, Facebook Marketplace

The Datsun 510 is one of the most sought-after Japanese classic car, having culminated a cult following over the years.

Seen here is a 1971 example that has been tastefully done up and the seller mentioned that the car is fitted with a 1.8-litre L18 twin-carbureted engine, paired to a 5-speed manual transmission. Drive is sent to the rear wheels.
Handling is taken care of by independent rear suspension - an uncommon feature in 1971.


Same same, but very different - CBU 2022 Perodua Ativa Hybrid vs CKD Perodua Ativa

The 2022 Perodua Ativa Hybrid is now official, and the 300 units imported (CBU) by Perodua will be finding their new homes real soon.

Japanese market Rocky e:Smart hybrid shown

Earlier, we’ve established that the Ativa Hybrid is essentially a JDM Daihatsu Rocky e-Smart Hybrid, just with its Daihatsu badges swapped out for Perodua ones.


Geely is all charged up with its Radar EV pick-up truck

Geely has dropped teaser images of its upcoming Radar pick-up truck. The Geely Radar will be an electric vehicle (EV) pick-up truck, developed on the SEA platform.

This new pick-up truck will be the first pick-up truck to be developed on Geely’s modular Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) platform; earlier models developed on the SEA platform include the Zeekr 001 and Smart #1.


Only RM 19k difference in price, should you get the 2022 Lexus NX with a 2.5NA or 2.4 Turbo?

If you’re in the market for a compact premium SUV (or if you insist, crossover), you’re spoilt for choices as there are not less than 4 different SUVs to choose from.
Joining the list of compact executive crossovers is the recently-launched, all-new 2022 Lexus NX, codenamed AZ20.

NX 250 pictured

For its second generation model, Lexus Malaysia is offering two variants, NX 250 Luxury and NX 350 F Sport. As before, the model is imported (CBU) from Japan.


Video: One of our writers bought the all-new 2023 Perodua Axia and we came to collect it!

Parting is such bittersweet sorrow and that is the feeling I got when I decided to say goodbye to my 20-year-old Proton Waja. The Arctic Blue sedan has seen its fair share of scrapes, bumps, wears, tears, as well as numerous headlights and door handles replaced but after serving me and my family for around 360,000 km, we had to move on.

  Misty, my old Waja and its replacement

Based on my budget, the prime replacement candidate was a Perodua and it was either an Ativa or the all-new Axia. In the end, this Coral Blue Axia was my choice and it has been nearly 2 months since I took ownership of it.

  A safe choice for many Malaysians but not my choice

I never once considered a Myvi despite it being the perennial King of Malaysian roads. Yes, it is the “safest” choice but honestly, I never find the current-gen Myvi being comfortable even with the new D-CVT transmission.


Teased in Malaysia, BMW iX electric SUV starts full production in Germany

For BMW, 2020 was the year of the grille. Though, let’s just admit that the vertical grilles at least add some personality to the BMW 4 Series, M3, and M4. When the BMW iX was launched though, the backlash on its design was overwhelming.

However, the design is clearly here to stay as standard production of the fully-electric SUV begins at BMW’s plant in Dingolfing, Germany. The plant is BMW Group’s largest production facility in Europe and also produces the BMW 5 Series, 7 Series, and 8 Series.


Owner Review:  Fueled Differently, My BMW 320d Sport (F30)

** 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：
BMW 320d Sport (F30)


Watch out Ativa, this Honda SUV RS Concept could preview the ZR-V, Malaysia launch in 2022?

Honda is on a roll with SUV debuts, and the recently-showcased Honda SUV RS Concept is a new addition to Honda's growing portfolio.

Hot off the launch floor at Indonesia’s Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show 2021 (2021 GIIAS) is a brand-new subcompact crossover from Honda, aimed directly at the Perodua Ativa, Toyota Raize, Daihatsu Rocky, and Kia Sonet.


Geely’s PR head brings us on a tour to a car ‘graveyard’ in China

Looks like the Philippines government is not the only entity that has no qualms destroying cars to get their point across. The Chinese authorities also pick the destruction route, though instead of crushing the rare one-off luxury cars, they leave them to rot in this ‘car graveyard’ in Hangzhou instead.
Geely’s External Communications Director, Ashley Sutcliffe brought the viewers of Geely Uncut to a yard where cars that were confiscated by the Chinese authorities were left to rot.


Owner Review: The first, the last and the best NA straight-6 SAV - My 2004 BMW X5 3.0i (E53)

** 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:
2004 BMW X5 3.0i (E53)


The Mercedes T 80 - Hitler's flawed land speed record breaker

It’s the early 1930s and Hitler’s Third Reich is newly in power. What could be a better way to boost credibility and throw a pie in Britain's face than claiming the land-speed record?
Hitler's bid to grab the land speed record

Photo credit: Mercedes Blog

The Mercedes T 80 was the vehicle to achieve that goal. It featured the best of the best Germany had to offer in that era - 44-litre Messerschmitt plane engine powering a Ferdinand Porsche design and piloted by Hans Stuck.


Toyota USA to ‘cross boundaries’ with new SUV launch on 2-June, hints to Toyota Corolla Cross

Following a successful debut in Thailand, the Toyota Corolla Cross will now cross the Pacific for a market launch in the USA.

Toyota Motor USA has since posted a teaser video with the caption:


GoCar welcomes Ham Yon Han as new COO

The car-sharing company GoCar Malaysia is happy to announce that Ham Yon Han is officially on board as their new Chief Operating Officer.
Ham will work alongside GoCar’s CEO, Alan Cheah, to improve the company’s customer experience, finance, fleet management, reporting structure and internal projects.
With 10 years of experience under the belt, Ham specialises in strategising and optimising processes to enhance business operations while improving customer experience.


Dear wagon fans, feast your eyes on the all-new Subaru Levorg Prototype

Subaru, being the legends that they are, envisions a future where people would still drive and enjoy it despite the rise of autonomous driving. Enter the all-new Subaru Levorg. Well, technically still a prototype but it looks production ready.

It gets underpinned by the Subaru Global Platform, which is already employed in the XV, Impreza and Forester. The platform has progressed with full inner frame construction that enhances body rigidity further.


Touch-sensitive buttons a mistake? VW to bring back physical buttons on steering wheel

Volkswagen CEO Thomas Schäfer announced on Linkedin that the company is bringing back physical buttons on steering wheel. “That’s what customers want from VW,” he posted.

The majority of current Volkswagen models on sale are using capacitive (touch-sensitive) buttons on the steering wheel, which looks cleaner but can be fiddly to use in practice. It is also prone to accidental touches.


WapCar Car Of The Year 2021 – Vote for the best cars of 2021

WapCar Car of the Year 2021

For the second year running, the WapCar Car of the Year awards are back!
Once again, we have shortlisted the best cars of 2021 for you, the reader, to crown our best of the best.

We have selected 22 models across four categories for you to vote for. The categories are:


Nissan Note is Japan's best-selling model, beats out Corolla and Yaris, over 100k units sold in 2022

Last year, a total of 110,113 units of the Nissan Note were sold in Japan, making it the best-selling model there.
According to sales data from the Japan Automobile Dealers Association (JADA), the Note’s sales figure trails the likes of the Toyota Corolla (131,548 units) and Toyota Yaris (168,557 units).
That said, keep in mind that sales figures of the Corolla and Yaris include the many body styles Toyota offer.


Proton X50’s CKD program to buy over RM 1.8b worth of local parts annually

At Tuesday’s line-off ceremony of the soon to be launched Proton X50, the Chairman of Proton Holdings Dato Sri Syed Faisal Albar revealed that the X50 project will purchase about RM 1.8 billion worth of automotive parts from local vendors annually.

“As a company that manufactures locally, Proton’s growth means more money is injected into Malaysia’s automotive vendor ecosystem leading to more jobs and wealth creation. This is vital at a time when COVID-19 has significantly hit Malaysia’s economy,” said Dato’ Sri Syed Faisal Albar.


Imported from Malaysia, Peugeot 3008 and 5008 facelifts to launch in Indonesia on Oct 2021

While Peugeot is under new Malaysian distributors courtesy of Bermaz Auto (BAuto), its plans to roar the French Lion back to life are scuppered thanks to months of economic lockdowns. Thus, it seems that our neighbours will be getting some updated models sooner than us and they will be imported from Malaysia.

According to our Indonesian colleagues at AutoFun Indonesia, the facelifted Peugeot 3008 and 5008 SUVs will be launched in the archipelago on October 2021. The CEO of Astra Peugeot Indonesia, Rocky Irvayandi, told the outlet that they are currently anticipating units to arrive from Malaysia.


Influencer shows off strobe lights on Mercedes-Benz GLE; PDRM is not amused

Another ‘Instafamous’ influencer has severely displeased Malaysians with his false sense of superiority when he happily uploaded a video of his Mercedes-Benz GLE with strobe lights similar to police patrol cars on TikTok. The Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) has launched an investigation and is in the process of tracking down the influencer for further investigation.

The 20-second video of the SUV showing off its strobe lights and then making use of it to squeeze through heavy traffic went viral on TikTok last week. The video raised a few eyebrows as social media users question if it was legal in Malaysia.


Toyota Vellfire driver who drove dangerously in Ipoh gets house greeting from Police, receives summon

A Toyota Vellfire driver dangerously cutting the line at Jalan Sultan Nazrin Shah in Ipoh on Tuesday (3-May-2022), paid off when he was summoned by the police two days ago (4-May-2022).
Ipoh district police chief, assistant commissioner Yahaya Hassan said, they detected a viral video showing the owner of the Toyota Vellfire committing the offense.


New CKD 2023 BMW X7 xDrive40i Pure Excellence LCI MHEV launched in Malaysia, priced from RM 654,800

Roughly 11 months since making its global debut, BMW Malaysia has just introduced the facelifted 2023 BMW X7 LCI here in Malaysia, available in the xDrive40i Pure Excellence variant.
The facelifted X7 Pure Excellence joins the pre-facelift X7 M Sport in BMW Malaysia’s X7 line-up:

BMW X7 xDrive40i M Sport: RM 728,800
BMW X7 xDrive40i Pure Excellence: RM 654,800

 Both prices are inclusive of BMW’s 5-year extended warranty and service package.


Vietnam’s VinFast looking to start production in Germany, after launching in the US

In just four years, VinFast has grown from building rebadged BMWs and Opels for the Vietnamese market to producing electric vehicles (EVs) that will be sold in America, Europe, and possibly Indonesia.

One of the first owners of the VinFast VF e34 in Vietnam

Currently, their first EV, the VF e34 is assembled at the Hai Phong plant on the northeast coast of Vietnam. However, for its global expansion, it is eyeing to set up a production facility in the U.S.A. and in Europe.

A few units of the VinFast VF e34 rolling off the assembly plant at Hai Phong

In the latter, VinFast is aiming to set up a plant in Germany and is working together with the economic promotion agency, Germany Trade and Invest (GTAI). Perhaps France wasn’t as enticing.


Spied: New Proton Saga to get 34-cc smaller engine?

Almost two months since it was first seen, the updated 2022 Proton Saga has been spotted again, courtesy of our friends over at Funtasticko.

While the earlier spyshot gave us a glimpse of the new Saga’s front-end and its circular Proton emblem, we now have a better look at the A-segment sedan’s side profile.


You’ve been pronouncing Toyota Raize wrong. Here’s the correct pronunciation

A couple of days ago, Toyota released a new TV commercial which features their latest SUV – the Raize.
We’ve covered the Raize (and its Daihatsu Rocky sibling) extensively, but how do you pronounce Raize?


Ora Good Cat on display at KLCC, 501 km range, circa RM 130k price possible

Months after we first spied it in a nondescript Shah Alam showroom, here's the full-electric (EV) Ora Good Cat in public, displayed at the launch of the Tindakan Pembangunan Bumiputera event held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC).

A crowd puller at the event, the Good Cat displayed here isn't quite Malaysian-spec yet, with it being left-hand drive (imported from China).


Mitsubishi Xpander: New vs old, what has changed?

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) is gearing up for the launch of the Mitsubishi Xpander here in Malaysia. The company has been teasing the arrival of the model since August, including a preview at Mid Valley Megamall.

But did you know that the model we’re set to receive is the facelifted model, skipping the pre-facelift model altogether.


Top-3 best value for money pick-up trucks in Malaysia

As surprising as it may sound, it is actually possible for car buyers in Malaysia to purchase a new car cheaper than open-market countries like Australia.
In this article, we will be taking a look at the three best 4x4 pick-up trucks in Malaysia.
2020 Mitsubishi Triton – Handsome looks, good prices


2020 Toyota RAV4 vs Honda CR-V vs Mazda CX-5 – Which one should you buy?

UMW Toyota Motor has just introduced the all-new 2020 Toyota RAV4 in Malaysia. The new model competes against the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5 in the C-segment SUV market.
Powertrain – Can the Dynamic Force engine compete against its turbocharged rivals?

From now till 31-December, these are updated prices for the Honda CR-V:


Review: 2022 Kia Carnival – So much metal for RM 196k but can you handle its size

Every once in a while, there comes an unassuming car that manages to exceed expectations. And the most recent one would be the 2022 Kia Carnival.

Well, not unassuming in its road presence and sheer size, but in the sense that it is a Kia and an MPV, intended as a people carrier/family car. In my time with the 2022 Kia Carnival, I have grown rather fond of it, and I don’t even have 9 children.


Priced from RM 30k, a used Proton Suprima S is worth shortlisting

When the Proton Suprima S was launched in Malaysia back in 2013, it was priced at the RM 80,000 mark – right smack in the growing non-national B-segment sedan market. It was conceived as a Malaysian alternative to European rivals like the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf.
At that time, the Suprima S seemed like a pretty solid deal, considering that it offered six airbags and stability control – features that the Toyota Vios and Honda City didn’t have back then.
These days, prices of a used Proton Suprima S have dropped to the RM 30k mark, making it a formidable option for those in the used car market.


RMCO: Motorsports Activities Allowed to Resume

Following Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin’s announcement on the latest phase of the Movement Control Order (MCO), more business sectors will now be allowed to reopen, and that includes motorsport venues like Sepang International Circuit (SIC).
Senior Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said, beginning June 15, restrictions on sporting and recreational activities will be lifted, but guidelines still need to be followed.
All businesses wishing to reopen must fill up a notification form at the International Trade and Industry Ministry (MITI) website, which has been available from June 8. This is so that they can obtain the standard operating procedures (SOP) and be monitored by the Youth and Sports Ministry.


Toyota's father-son duo to test carbon-neutral fuels at the 25-hour endurance race in Buriram, and here are 17 photos

It’s race weekend again and the Idemitsu 25 Hours Super Endurance race is happening at the Chang International Circuit in Buriram, Thailand. Today is the qualifying round, with actual race days set to happen over this weekend (17- to 18-December).

Morizo is Akio Toyoda's racing pseudonym, and Daisuke Toyoda is his son

In addition to the usual race-prepped Toyota Corolla Altis and Toyota Vios, the list of participants include two cars that stand out: a Toyota GR Corolla bearing #232 and a Toyota GR86 with #328. One of the drivers for #232 is Akio Toyoda (Morizo), while his son, Daisuke Toyoda is one of the drivers for #328. Daisuke Toyoda is Senior Vice President of Woven Planet, a spin-off from the former Toyota Research Institute - Advanced Development (TRI-AD).


Amidst global criticism, Malaysia gets to work fulfilling backlog orders for chips

The lockdowns in Malaysia and other parts of the world have caused supply disruptions in various industries including the semiconductor industry, causing the widely-known chip shortage.

CEO of Mercedes-Benz Ola Källenius said that the company expects a significantly lower third-quarter sales due to the global semiconductor shortage.


Mercedes-Benz to open Asia-Pacific After-Sales Logistics Centre in Johor

Mercedes-Benz has signed a long-term lease agreement with Tiong Nam Logistics Solutions Sdn Bhd to open a new After-Sales Logistics Centre in Senai Airport City, Johor Bahru. Mercedes-Benz Parts Logistics Asia Pacific (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, a 100 percent subsidiary of Mercedes-Benz AG will be established to operate the logistic centre.
The 1,000,000 square feet logistics centre be owned and developed by Tiong Nam Logistic Solutions. Operations are set to begin in 2024 and the centre will be equipped with the latest storage and material-handling systems.


Mercedes for comfort, BMW for drivers, Audi for everything else. Still true?

Back in the day - or even today actually -, one would 'upgrade' to a German automobile to display an upward trajectory in life. Of German cars, the perennial contenders would be from Stuttgart (mostly Pekan nowadays), Munich (read Kulim) or Ingolstadt (still..... err Ingolstadt actually).

I am of course talking about Germany's big three: Mercedes, BMW and Audi. Three premium luxury brands who interpret luxury and driving experience in their own ways. So, how do they actually differ? What is the X-factor for each brand? We attempt to unravel that today.


KPDN - Targeted RON 95 petrol subsidies could be determined based on vehicle's horsepower

With global fuel prices rising and the Malaysian government spending at least RM 40 billion in subsidies in 2022, talks of targeted fuel subsidies don’t seem to be going away any time soon.

In fact, one of the elements that the government will use in identifying targeted petrol subsidies would be the Road Transport Department (JPJ) database. Minister of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN), Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub said the ministry had discussed the matter with the Ministry of Finance (MOF), Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli and JPJ.


Summer Regret: Audi A3 Cabriolet Will Roll Off Production Line

With the gradual growth of the post 90s and post 00s into the main force of car purchasing, the labels of youth, sports, personality and so on seem to have injected the slightly "aging" automobile market. Among the many eye-catching elements, the convertible is still biased towards the niche position, which is rarely seen on the road.

Recently, Audi A3 Cabriolet has decided to officially shut down production after the 2019 model year, according to the Car and Driver, after speaking with an unnamed Audi rep.
Poor sales performance may be the culprit in killing Audi A3 Cabriolet.


Old vs New - 2020 Honda CR-V facelift, what's new?

Last month, Honda Malaysia launched the 2020 Honda CR-V facelift. While it may look largely identical, there a few revisions worthy of note.

Firstly, the revised model lineup with only three variants available to choose from compared to four previously. Prices (OTR without insurance and SST, valid until 31 December 2020) start from RM 139,913 to RM 162,910 for the range-topping 1.5 TC-P 4WD variant.


Is that a manual Supra? Toyota Supra might come with a manual transmission

Mag X, a Japanese publication has reported that a manual gearbox is “under preparation” for the A90 Toyota Supra. The manual gearbox is expected to make the infamous coupe even more engaging to drive.

Manual swapped A90 Supra by European Auto Group. Photo: tuningblog.eu

There are yet to be any specifics on the manual gearbox. Currently the A90 Toyota Supra utilises the 8-speed automatic transmission with shift paddles.
Earlier this year, Toyota had already introduced a 4-cylinder turbo B48 base variant of the Toyota Supra alongside the B58 turbo 6-cylinder variant. Rumour has it, a GRMN version of the Supra is also underway.


Kia opens new 3S centre in Tampoi

Naza Kia Malaysia has launched a new 3S outlet in Tampoi. Operated by Supreme Priority Sdn Bhd., the dealer is Kia’s sixth outlet in Johor, and its 45th nationwide.
Located along Jalan Tampoi in Tampoi New Village, the 3S Centre has a built-up area of 18,000 square feet with the capacity to display a total of 7 vehicles in the showroom while the two-service bay workshop is able to accommodate over 100 cars per month.
“With the new Kia Tampoi 3S Centre, we have altogether six Kia outlets in Johor and with that we are confident we will be able to cater to the needs and demands of our customers and future customers here. Johor has been a significant market for us as 90% of Korean car owners here own a Kia,” said Mr. R. Devaraju, Deputy Group Chief Executive Officer, Automotive Group, Naza Corporation Holdings.


5 Essential Items To Have In Your Car

I don't know about you, but I can be a bit of a stickler for keeping a car's interior clutter-free. I am not a big fan of having an assortment of knick-knacks rolling about in my glovebox. However, there are a few items that I think all cars should have. Here are a few of them.
1. Dashcam

We've all seen dashcam footages before, and pretty much all of them involve accidents and/or road bullies. Having a dashcam in your car means having evidence should you be involved or a witness to such events.
In fact, some insurance companies in overseas countries offer discounts for cars with dashcams fitted. Sadly no such thing here.


All-new D92A 2022 Toyota Vios rendered - Baby Camry?

Rendering wizard Theottle has given his interpretation of what the upcoming D92A 2022 Toyota Vios could look like, based on the recent spyshots in Thailand.

From the front, there appears to be styling cues taken from the Toyota Corolla Altis and Toyota Camry with the multiple horizontal slats on the front bumper. The vertical slits along the sides are also reminiscent of the Corolla Altis.


272 PS, 370 Nm Toyota GR Corolla in the works, October 2020 debut

European market Toyota Corolla GR Sport pictured

While Toyota may be busy working on several new SUVs (Corolla Cross, new C-Segment SUV), the Japanese manufacturer is also said to be working on the GR Corolla, based on the Corolla Sport hatchback.

The Corolla GR Sport is a visual upgrade over the regular Corolla hatchback

According to Creative311, the GR Corolla will likely be aimed at markets where the GR Yaris isn’t sold, e.g. North America. After all, Toyota USA did file for a GR Corolla trademark at the US Patent and Trademark Office back in April, fueling speculation that the model will be launched there. Toyota USA also posted this Tweet.
To recap, GR is Toyota's equivalent to BMW M, while the lower tier GR Sport is analogous to M Performance, but some GR Sport models feature additional chassis upgrades.

While GR Yaris isn't hitting the states…perhaps it's time the U.S. got a hot hatch to call its own. Join the Toyota GR family and never miss an update: https://t.co/qsPgFbY2TI pic.twitter.com/CmD1ozxwVQ window.googletag = window.googletag || {cmd: []}; googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.defineSlot('/22557728108/MY_Article_Middle_leaderboard_pc', [
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], 'div-gpt-ad-1670926945518-0').addService(googletag.pubads()); googletag.pubads().enableSingleRequest(); googletag.pubads().collapseEmptyDivs(); googletag.enableServices(); });  googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1670926945518-0'); });
— Toyota USA (@Toyota) May 7, 2020

Expect the GR Corolla to draw inspiration from the GR Yaris

Like the GR Yaris, the upcoming GR Corolla is expected to feature the same 1.6-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged engine that does 272 PS and 370 Nm (final output figures may differ due to emission regulations), hooked up to a 6-speed manual transmission. The GR Corolla, like the GR Yaris, could benefit from the sophisticated all-wheel drive system.

The GR Yaris' 4WD system could be carried over to the GR Corolla as well

Furthermore, the GR Corolla will likely get a retuned suspension set-up, larger brakes, as well as stickier tyres.

Taiwan just received the Corolla Altis GR Sport

At the moment, Toyota offers GR Sport versions of the Corolla Sport and Corolla Altis in selected markets. But don’t mistake these for the full-blown GR version, as these are merely kitted up versions with larger wheels and GR Sport styling upgrades.
What about a Malaysian debut you ask?

You'll need some serious money for the GR Yaris

Chances are slim, as UMW Toyota Motor is opting for the GR Yaris instead.
Despite being a smaller model than the GR Corolla, the GR Yaris won’t come cheap – expect to pay close to RM 300,000 for one.
At that price point, the GR Yaris is aimed squarely at the wealthy car collector that appreciates a WRC homologation car.


The 2022 Kia Carnival is enticing, and here's how much its monthly instalments are in Malaysia

The fully-imported (CBU Korea) 2022 Kia Carnival is a car we think starts off Dinamikjaya Motors’ Korean-car offensive on the right foot, and it’s more than a match for people looking for a giant MPV that isn’t all agricultural nor boring inside.

In this monthly repayment guide, we’re taking the 11-seater Carnival’s (there’s only one variant here) on-the-road prices sans insurance, which starts from RM 196,340, and not factoring in additional accessories.


New 2023 Renault Zoe launched in Malaysia - First shipment sold out, from RM 165k, 395 km, 50 kW DC charging

TC Euro Cars (TCEC) has launched the new 2023 Renault Zoe. Prices of the fully electric B-segment hatchback start from RM 165,000 for the entry R110 variant, and RM 179,000 for the more powerful R135 variant.
Both variants are powered by the same 52 kWh battery, but with different motor output. The battery pack is still air-cooled, as before, but the first generation Zoe has proven that the simple cooling system holds up well even in our hot and humid climate.

Specs for 2023 Renault Zoe

R110
R135

Batt capacity
52 kWh

Power
110 PS
135 PS

Torque
225 Nm
245 Nm

Range (WLTP)
396 km
386 km

The new 2023 Renault Zoe now supports DC fast charging of up to 50 kW, via a CCS2 port. Charging from 10 to 80 percent can be completed in 70 minutes.


Carsome's new used-car buying process has a 5-day money-back guarantee

Carsome introduces a new process that will change the second-hand car buying procedure entirely. The new process will not only make second-hand car buying simpler but also offer car buyers a peace of mind.
The process is known as the New Way of Buying Cars, it is a whole new digitalised process that offers a one-year warranty, a Carsome Certified car, and a five-day money back guarantee under the Carsome Promise package.


Far from home, what’s this Changan Eado EV doing in Malaysia?

Could Malaysians soon welcome a new affordable electric vehicle (EV) in the form of the Changan Eado EV?

Courtesy of an anonymous reader, said EV was spotted with trade plates prowling Jalan Yap Kwan Seng a few nights ago. Quick checks on this particular trade plate did not yield any results.


Perodua still on track for recovery to 240,000-unit sales for 2021

Perodua, which sold 96,281 vehicles in the first five months of 2021, maintains its 240,000-unit sales target for the year despite the ongoing pandemic and the semiconductor shortage.
“While Perodua’s year-to-date May sales of 96,281 units is 82% more than the 52,920 units sold in the same period last year, this achievement is distorted as the first Movement Control Order was in place from March to May last year,” said Perodua President and Chief Executive Officer Dato’ Zainal Abidin Ahmad.


It’s official – Berjaya Auto Alliance takes over Peugeot from Naza, Citroen dropped

Berjaya has confirmed that it will be taking over the Peugeot distributorship for Malaysia. The French brand will now be represented by a new company, Berjaya Auto Alliance Sdn Bhd (BAASB), which is 51 percent owned by Berjaya Corp Bhd and 20 percent by Bermaz Auto Bhd. The remaining stakeholders are not disclosed.

Second generation Peugeot 2008 to be launched in Malaysia next year

A joint statement with Groupe PSA, Berjaya Corporation, and Bermaz Auto released earlier today said that BAASB will be the sole distributor for Peugeot, while also gaining the rights to after-sales and spare parts of Peugeot, Citroen, as well DS brand vehicles.


4 new hybrid SUVs that Malaysians should wait for in 2022 - Honda HR-V, Toyota Corolla Cross, Haval H6, Jolion

Haval plant in Thailand as regional hub for export, Malaysia included.
All-new 2022 Honda HR-V to arrive in Malaysia next year.
Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid could debut later this month.

As news about tax-free EVs in Malaysia have made recent headlines, it’s easy to overlook a slew of hybrids that will make their way onto our shores. Specifically, hybrid SUVs that are coming – Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid, 2022 Honda HR-V Hybrid, 2022 Haval H6 Hybrid, and 2022 Haval Jolion Hybrid.

Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid - The pioneer in hybrid technology
Let’s start with the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid. Its arrival is imminent as UMW Toyota is currently finalizing preparation work for the launch of the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid in Malaysia.


GoCar needs volunteers for GoVax campaign amidst intensified vaccination effort

Now that the government has ramped up the daily vaccination numbers, GoCar Malaysia is also looking to increase their efforts with their GoVax Heroes programme. The company is now recruiting volunteer drivers to assist with providing free transportation for senior citizens aged 60 years and above as well as persons with disabilities (PWDs).
Since the start of the programme, GoVax has thus far been using volunteers from GoCar Malaysia’s employee pool. Now that vaccination appointments have increased, GoCar found that the demand for the GoVax free shuttle service has increased as well.


All-new Toyota GR Supra 2019 3.0L launched in Malaysia, RM568,000

Only available with 3.0-litre straight-six turbo
Toyota Supra Safety Advanced Driver Assistance System
Unique paintwork available as an option

UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has just launched the all-new A90 Toyota GR Supra 2019 here to the local market. Bringing back the legendary Supra nameplate to Malaysia.
As much as we like to be sentimental about the Supra name, pricing is a big factor as to whether people would actually put their money down on one. UMWT has managed to price it at RM 568k, on par with the competition such as the BMW M2 Competition, Porsche 718 Cayman, BMW Z4 and Jaguar F-Type.


Prepping for IPO, Vietnam's VinFast to shift HQ to Singapore as the island "gives more confidence to investors"

VinFast, Vietnam's local car manufacturer, is shifting their legal and financial headquarters to Singapore as the company prepares for a public listing and their first production run of cars for the North American and European markets.
VinFast CEO, Le Thi Thu Thuy, told Reuters that the manufacturer will be beginning production of the VF8 SUV next week, their own set of EV batteries in August, and a USD 4 billion (~RM 17.5 billion) factory in the USA by the the middle of the year.


Owner review: That affordable German C Segment Sedan! My 2017 VW Jetta 1.4TSI

Basic information about my car:
Volkswagen Jetta 1.4 TSI Comfortline (2017)


Remember that Honda Civic Type R that was given to the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong?

Last year, Honda Malaysia presented the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong with a Honda Civic Type R FK8 as his escort car. The car is now officially registered and social media users can’t stop swooning over it when photos of it on duty surfaced on the internet.

The Civic Type R escort car was a gift to His Majesty Seri Paduka Baginda The Yang di-Pertuan Agong XVI Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah Ibni Almarhum Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Al-Musta'in Billah in celebration of his birthday last year in September.


Owner Review: A daily and a track car in one - My 2003 Honda Jazz GD1

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

Basic information
2003 Honda Jazz GD1


New infotainment in 2021 Honda HR-V fixes its biggest weakness

Earlier this year, Honda Malaysia updated the 2021 Honda HR-V with a few goodies, chief among them is the new 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The new infotainment system is standard across all variants of the Honda HR-V, starting from the E variant, all the way to the RS.


Mercedes-AMG A45 S is faster than a Lamborghini on the Nurburgring, but slower than a Honda Civic?

The Mercedes-AMG A45 S has the most powerful 4-cylinder engine in a production car. With 421 PS and 500 Nm of torque, the A45 S completes the century sprint in 3.9 seconds, onwards to a top speed of 270 km/h.

It is undoubtably quick in a straight line, but what happens if you show it some corners? Well, Sport Auto took an A45 S for a hot lap on the Nurburgring Nordschleife and it did it in 7 minutes 48.8 seconds.


Come visit Carsome's largest indoor car showroom at PJ Automall from 11- to 12-June

Carsome will officiate its largest indoor car showroom at its Carsome PJ Automall on 11- and 12-June. Visitors can browse and test drive over 200 Carsome Certified cars at the event.

To celebrate the opening of its flagship showroom, Carsome has lined up some exciting events and offers, from a fun-filled carnival to free window tinting when you buy a Carsome Certified car from their Automall. Carsome Certified cars are the new standard of buying pre-owned cars and have been refurbished to ensure quality. Each car has passed a 175-point inspection, and comes with fixed prices with no hidden fees, five-day money-back guarantee, and one-year warranty.


10 reasons why the Mazda Lantis is more than just another playboy car of the nineties

The Mazda Astina made waves for every playboy in the nineties with its sleek looks and cool pop-up headlights. However, it is underpowered which is something that didn’t quite match its overall look.

At least its successor tried to fix that issue. The Mazda Lantis still brought all the playboys to Mazda’s dealers even with a pair of conventional headlights. Since we think it deserves as much love as the Astina, we found 10 reasons why.


1.5 turbo Proton X70 tested at extreme temperatures and 3,100 m above sea level in Pakistan

A recent video by Proton Pakistan's facebook page has showed the Proton X70 being tested in high altitudes and extreme temperatures.
According to Proton, the testing was conducted from February to July 2020.

The Proton X70 was tested for over 50,000 km and the car scaled altitudes of up to 3,118 meters above sea level.


Is it true that Iridium sparkplugs will give your car more power? Or are copper sparkplugs enough?

The sparkplug plays an important role within a car’s petrol internal combustion engine (ICE). It is the component responsible for igniting the fire within the combustion chamber and turning firepower into kinetic power thence allowing your car to move forward. There are many types of sparkplugs on the market, so here’s a guide.
The main components of a sparkplug are 2 electrodes (central and ground) positioned apart to create an electrode gap. The electrodes are what generates a spark when a high electrical voltage is applied to the central electrode and a spark path is created with the ground electrode.

Image credit: testingautos

The electrode gap is there to provide a space for the spark. If an appropriate gap is not provided to the plug then there won’t be sufficient spark to ignite the fuel and may lead to misfiring.


2021 Toyota Vios facelift teased in Malaysia - coming in Dec to disrupt the City and Almera

Here it is - UMW Toyota Malaysia (UMWT) has teased the new facelifted 2021 Toyota Vios in Malaysia! It's just a small tease for now, but we now have a clearer idea of what the all-new 2020 Honda City and 2020 Nissan Almera fighter will bring.

The small teaser shows off the Vios new front fascia and LED headlights - good additions because buyers of the new Almera and City will get those depending on variant chosen.


COTY 2020: Honda Accord vs Volkswagen Passat, which is your favourite D-segment sedan?

There was a time when the Volkswagen Passat was priced closer to a BMW 3 Series or a Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and a brand-new Honda Accord can be bought for less than RM 150k. Today though, prices for these two have pretty much equalized.

The 2020 Honda Accord 1.5 TC-P is priced at RM 187,390 (0% SST) while the 2020 Volkswagen Passat R-Line is priced at RM 204,433 (0% SST). Both the 2020 Honda Accord and 2020 Volkswagen Passat made it into our very own shortlist for Car of the Year awards.


The all-new 2020 Honda Jazz hybrid doesn’t have a gearbox, no gearbox problems ever!

The all-new fourth generation Honda Jazz will go on sale in Japan in February 2020. The model is known in Japan as the Honda Fit. Introduction of the all-new Honda Jazz in Malaysia is still some years away, but it will certainly reach here, probably by around 2021, mostly due to additional lead time required for local assembly.
For Europe and Japan, the all-new Jazz will be sold only as a hybrid but unlike the outgoing model, it won’t use the single motor i-DCD (Intelligent Dual Clutch Drive) paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Two motors: Traction motor drives the car, and does regenerative braking. Generator motor starts the engine and supplies power to traction motor

Instead, it will use a smaller, scaled down version of the two-motor i-MMD (Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive) hybrid first seen in the Accord Hybrid and CR-V Hybrid, both are available in Thailand but not here.


7 days of free travel for all on Kelana Jaya line after LRT fiasco; details here

The LRT Kelana Jaya line has reopened in full following last week's fiasco, and as compensation Prasarana is giving seven days of free travel for all Kelana Jaya line users; beginning today (Monday, 14-November 2022) to Sunday, 20-November 2022.
This concession will apply to everyone that's using the line, no matter if they're using tokens, Touch N' Go, or the My50 travel pass. Here's how to apply:
My50 pass holders
For those travelling with this My50 pass, you'll be given an additional free travel for 7 days when renewning your passes after expiry. All you need to is go to any customer service office at any of the stations, and the officer will validate the additional days.


Touch ‘n Go and SmartTag lanes on North-South Highway will be phased out for RFID

The Ministry of Works (KKR) has announced that they will begin the process of phasing out Touch ‘n Go (TnG) and SmartTag lanes for Class 1 Private vehicles along the North-South Highway from Juru, Penang to Skudai, Johor. The lanes will be replaced by RFID lanes.
KKR claims that the process of phasing out TnG and SmartTag lanes will help reduce traffic congestion at toll plazas. As RFID does not require road users to roll down their windows, KKR also believes that it will also help curb the spread of Covid-19.


Ora Good Cat: Priced like a Honda City hybrid in Thailand but costs RM 25k more in Malaysia, this is the reason

If you have travelled to Bangkok recently, you would’ve noticed that the funky looking Ora Good Cat is everywhere in Thailand’s capital city. The funky looking China-made EV model by Great Wall Motors is currently Thailand’s No.1 selling battery EV (BEV) model, with a market share of nearly 50 percent, and it’s easy to understand why.
With a starting price of THB 828,500 (~RM 105k), Thai buyers can buy either a Honda City e:HEV hybrid or the fully electric Ora Good Cat, which even in its cheapest 400 Tech variant with a 47.8 kWh battery, is good for 400 km (NEDC method).


Toyota Vios vs Honda City; How do they compare?

The hottest car segment is undeniably the B-segment sedans. You can’t talk about the Honda City without mentioning the Toyota Vios and likewise. But have you ever compared the two cars’ equipment list side by side?

For this comparison, we compare the range topping Toyota Vios G variant against the Honda City V variant and City Hybrid as well.


Experience the power of the Lam-bull-ghini!

We have always known the term “horsepower” as a measure of the power output a car engine can produce. Though bulls and cows were used as means of transports back in the day, we have never known it as "bull-power" or "cow-power". Well, this stranded Toyota Hilux had a good taste of classic bull-power!
In this video uploaded on Facebook, a pair of bulls were seen hooked up to a stranded Toyota Hilux. While the Hilux is a good off-roading workhorse, even muddy situations like in the video left the pick-up stumped.

This is one of those moments when modern machinery fails us while classic techniques are the way to go! The bulls easily pulled the Hilux out of the ditch and onto safer ground with seemingly little effort.


This unassuming Toyota Camry can withstand bombs and bullets

Think of armoured cars and chances are, you’re thinking of something huge like a Range Rover or exquisite like a Mercedes-Benz S-Class. But what if you wanted a stealth-looking armoured car that doesn't attract too much attention like, say, a Toyota Camry?

Well, the team at Inkas Armored is currently offering a bulletproof (ex) unclemobile in their, ahem, arsenal. The Canadian-based armoured vehicle manufacturer kept the unassuming looks of the Camry but it’s what goes under that makes it a shield on wheels.


Review: 2022 Toyota Camry facelift - 'Top up a bit more' to get a 3 Series? Don't bother

There’s a common phrase on social media – particularly on Malaysian automotive pages – “top up a bit more” and you can get so-and-so. The 2022 Toyota Camry facelift is now priced at RM 209,800 post-SST exemption. For around RM 30k more, you can buy a BMW 3 Series.

A BMW badge is tempting, isn’t it? Well, let’s quench that temptation. There is the law of diminishing returns which applies to practically everything. Google's dictionary provided by Oxford defines it as smaller returns from something as more money is invested.


Sprint Highway exit to Jalan Maarof and Bangsar closed until March 2023, delays for RapidKL buses expected

Sprint Highway users should take note of road closures for the construction of a multi-level flyover near the Jalan Maarof entrance. The closure started last weekend and is expected to last until early March 2023.
Sprint Highway Communications Department head Shah Rizal Mohamad Fawzi told Bernama the closure will affect road users from Petaling Jaya using the right lane to Jalan Maarof towards Bangsar at the Maarof intersection.


COTY 2020 – Why younger rivals still can’t unseat the 2020 Honda Civic (FC) from its throne?

First launched in Malaysia in 2016, the FC generation Honda Civic is going into the fifth (and final legs) of its 5-year model life but look at it today, it hasn’t even aged one bit, not even when parked next to its younger rivals like the Toyota Corolla Altis, or even higher priced imported rivals like the Mazda 3 and Hyundai Elantra.

Korean rivals like the Kia Cerato are now nowhere to be seen while other European pretenders that used to vie for the crown have since packed up and left – Volkswagen Jetta and Ford Focus included.


2023 BMW M2 (G87) images leaked - Boxy and ugly or modern E30 M3?

One must wonder if BMW has foregone designing their cars to look good and have simply started using rulers. Leaked images shared on Valve and Piston's Instagram page of the upcoming G87 2023 BMW M2 certainly suggest the latter.
But squint your eyes just a little bit and tell me if you see a boxy mess or design imprints of the Godlike BMW E30 M3.


All-new Nissan Z makes its Australian debut with the help of its past generations

The Nissan Z is one of the most recognisable names in the sports car world and after hanging on for 11 years, the Z34 370Z is finally replaced by the RZ34 Nissan Z in 2022. Though it’s unlikely that the all-new Z will be brought into Malaysia officially by Edaran Tan Chong Motors (ETCM), the legendary model is recently launched in Australia.

According to Nissan Australia, the limited-edition Z Proto has been sold out but it still lists the standard Z Coupe for sale from AUD 80,095 (~RM 250k). The all-new Z might look like an evolution of the Z34 in terms of overall design and as the code name suggests but it is an important model in an age where electrification is the way to survive.