BYD opens ROI for EVs in Malaysia – 420km range Atto 3 and 522km E6

Soon to join the electric vehicle (EV) market in Malaysia are two EVs from
BYD
 through
Sime Darby Motors
 as the brand’s official distributor. The company has now opened registration of interests (ROI) for its EVs and has launched its own
Facebook page
.
On the brand’s Facebook page is a
post
 that reads, “The Future of Electric Vehicles in Malaysia. Coming soon.”, with a link to a Google form attached. Back in September, BYD and Sime Darby Motors signed a distributorship agreement and confirmed that two all-electric BYD models will debut in Malaysia, namely the BYD Atto 3 and the BYD E6.
Variants of the BYD Atto 3 have not yet been confirmed for Malaysia, but it does come in three varaints elsewhere – “Active”, “Comfort”, and “Design”. Measuring 4,455 mm in length, 2,050 mm in width, and 1,615 mm in height, and with a wheelbase measuring 2,720 mm, the BYD Atto 3 is about the size of a
Proton X70
 (4,519 mm length, 1,831 mm width, 1,694 mm height, and 2,670 mm wheelbase).
The BYD Atto 3 is a crossover with a single electric motor (
201 hp
/
310 Nm
) that powers the front wheels. Storing energy is a
60.48-kWh
battery that provides
420 km
 of range (WLTP). Charging from 0 to 100% takes
6 hours and 30 minutes
 with an 11-kW AC charger (European spec). With a 150-kW DC fast charger, the BYD Atto 3 can charge from 0 to 100% in
80 minutes
 and 10% to 80% in 44 minutes (European spec).
RELATED:
BYD officially enters Malaysia – distributed by Sime Darby Motors
BYD Atto 3
Another all-electric offering by BYD is the BYD E6, which is an MPV with a
71.7-kWh
 battery pack and 522 km of range (WLTP). The battery sends energy to an electric motor (
95 hp
/
180 Nm
) that powers the front wheels. The BYD E6 can handle a 6.6-kW AC charger to charge the car from 0 to 100% in
12 hours
. DC fast charging is capped at 60kW, charging the car from 0 to 100% in
1.5 hours
.
Both the upcoming Atto 3 and E6 will join the upcoming
Ora Good Cat
 in the addition of more accessible EVs in Malaysia. The current cheapest EV in Malaysia is the
Hyundai Kona electric
 e-Lite which fetches a price of RM 156,538.
RELATED:
China’s BYD enters Australia, plans to sell 9,000 EVs per month by next year
BYD E6


Formula 1 sparks creation of synthetic petrol, to replace fossil fuel

Here is a good break from a ton of news on electric vehicles, battery packs and charging infrastructure. Formula 1 is set to not only continue racing with internal combustion hybrid engines into the next decade, but also lead the creation and usage of fully synthetic, sustainable fuels.
Based on data obtained by Formula 1, it is estimated that there will be 1.8 billion cars on the road by 2030, with only 8% (approx. 145 million units) of those are pure battery EVs (BEV) with internal combustion engines continue to be essential to air, sea as well as the logistics industry.
BMW still very happy with having combustion engines in their line-up, no plans to bid farewell yet.
As such, the pinnacle of motor racing is spearheading the development of 100% sustainable ‘drop-in’ fuel. They are also actively in discussions with fuel companies, such as Aramco, about creating the fuel for the racing series as well as then scaling up production for public consumption.
The creation of a
100% sustainable ‘drop-in’ fuel
 also eases the transition as it will be engineered to be a direct replacement for use in current combustion engines without any modifications whilst delivering the same power. Based on simulations, the sustainable synthetic fuel is able to cut greenhouse gas emissions by at least 65%, thanks to production using a combination of sources including carbon capture from the atmosphere, waste and non-food biomass.
Porsche
 has begun a pilot project with the manufacturing and usage of nearly CO2-neutral fuels. From next year, the Porsche Supercup one-make race will debut the use of fully synthetic fuel that is manufactured in Chile.
Sustainable methanol is produced using electrolysed hydrogen (from water) and CO2 from the atmosphere with energy capture from low-cost wind power. The renewable methanol is then converted into climate-friendly fuel using an MTG (methanol to gasoline) technology licensed and supported by ExxonMobil.
Sustainable methanol-to-gasoline plant in Chile
Hydrogen refuelling with Toyota
Petronas widely uses the pinnacle of motorsports like MotoGP and F1 to test new fuels. Find out why the Primax 97 with Pro-Race is their best fuel yet.
Toyota meanwhile has been actively racing a modified turbocharged 1.6-litre engine from the Toyota GR Yaris that is only fuelled with
hydrogen
. The Japanese auto giant also believes moving to just fully electric propulsion is
not a practical solution
.
Image credit:
Redbull Content Pool
As for Formula 1, it currently mandates the use of E5 petrol blend, consisting of 5.75% ethanol and the rest from crude oil. For the next three years, the engine specifications are frozen and also run on a slightly richer blend of bio-fuel, increasing to 10% or E10. Formula 1 also hopes the direction to fully synthetic fuels will attract new automakers into the series such as Porsche and Audi.
The global racing series that travels up to 21 countries across five continents plans to have the motorsport series be net zero carbon (carbon neutral) from 2030.


Video: Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 CRDi AWD Premium review

We recently got the keys to the updated Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 CRDi AWD Premium and one subject continued to disturb GC- the name. We also took a quick trip down memory lane, as the Hyundai Santa Fe was one of GC’s first video review when it was published back in 2014.
Priced at RM209,888 before sales tax exemptions, the Hyundai Santa Fe offers dynamism and comfort for seven passengers on board.

Now, you must be thinking, this isn’t the facelifted Santa Fe that features the new T-shaped headlamps. For this round of model
updates
, Hyundai-Sime Darby Malaysia has included new design for the 19-inch rims in this Premium variant and included third-row air-conditioning for all variants.
Other key features on the Hyundai Santa Fe Premium variant include Bi-LED projection lights with dynamic bending function and a smart powered tailgate with a full contactless opening.
Inside, the
Hyundai Santa Fe
 Premium variant adds a powered driver’s seat, passenger seat with separate controls for rear passengers, Nappa leather upholstery and a digital seven-inch driver’s instrument cluster.
Look out for the
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3
 being featured in this review as well! Folding down the second-row seats for entry to the third row is just a push of the Smart One Touch Walk-in button, making it even easy for children and the elderly to activate the movement.
Under the hood is a 2.2-litre turbodiesel unit churning out
193 hp
 and
440 Nm
 of torque, paired to a smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic and delivered to all four wheels via an active torque distributing all-wheel drive coupling. Smart and Sport drive modes are also available to suit the road conditions and driver’s mood.
As for safety features, the premium variant gets Rear Occupant Alert, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert and avoidance assist in addition to the standard fitment of six airbags, ESC and Downhill Brake Control.


Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe & Cabriolet added to the local Dream Cars line up

Launched alongside the
facelifted Mercedes-Benz S-Class
 and
Mercedes-Maybach S-Class
 are the
S-Class Coupe and Cabriolet duo
, completing the full line up of S-Class family right here in Malaysia.
The refreshed two door S-Classes sits in Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s (MBM) Dream Cars portfolio, needless to say, the two models command a price tag north of RM1.3 million. MBM has decided to launch the S-Class cabriolet in the S 560 guise while the S-Class Coupe is represented by the S 63.
Let’s start with the visual updates, the two model gets dressed in a redesigned front and rear bumper as well as organic LED taillamps, consisting of 66 individual OLEDs that animates upon unlocking the car. The glittery Swarovski crystal headlamps are also present in the Coupe and Cabriolet.
As for individual trimmings, the S 560 Cabriolet features the familiar diamond front grille, AMG Line exterior kit and rides on twin five-spoke alloy wheels measuring 20-inch in diameter. The black fabric roof that can be stowed away in 20 seconds at speeds of up to 64 km/h.

Other optional extras on the topless S-Class include Aircap draught shield system that helps reduce turbulence in the interior, Energizing comfort control, Airmatic suspension and Driving Assistance Package that bundles Active Distance Control DISTRONIC and Active Steering Assist.
Powering the S 560 Cabriolet is a 4.0-litre biturbo V8 that produces
469 hp
 and
700 Nm
 of torque that gets transferred to the rear wheels via a new nine-speed automatic transmission. Century sprint is completed in
4.6 seconds
 while top speed is registered at
250 km/h
.

 S 560 4.0L V8

 S 63 4.0L V8
On to the Mercedes-AMG S 63 Coupe, it is powered by a 4.0-litre biturbo V8 that packs
612 hp
 and
900 Nm
 of torque. A new nine-speed AMG Speedshift MCT gearbox is tasked with power transfer to the rear wheels. With Launch Control activated, the S 63 Coupe will go from 0 to 100 km/h in just
4.2 seconds
 before hitting a limited top speed of
250 km/h
. If speed is what you seek, better have the
AMG Driver’s Package
 option ticked to have the top speed raised to
300 km/h
.
Despite all the ferocity from the AMG tuned V8, Mercedes-AMG did not forget that fuel efficiency and emission is the trend these days, so they have fitted an AMG Cylinder Management cylinder deactivation system. Under partial load, the V8 will shut off four of its eight cylinders to significantly lower fuel consumption.

This unit you see here is decked out in the exclusive Yellow Night Edition that paints the car in Selenite Grey Magno, 20-inch seven-spoke lightweight AMG alloy wheels, Yellow painted brake calipers, AMG high-performance composite ceramic brakes, gloss black extended front splitter, carbon fibre side mirror caps and boot lid as well as AMG racing decals on the side sills.
Inside, the S 63 gets Yellow accents on the stitching, 12 o’clock marking on the AMG Performance sports steering wheel, Edition badge and carbon fibre interior trim. Standard features include Exclusive Nappa leather, illuminated AMG door sill panels and AMG logo on various location of the cabin.
As for pricing, the Mercedes-Benz S 560 Cabriolet will set you back at RM1.3 million while the Mercedes-AMG S 63 Coupe is
only
RM100k dearer at RM1.46 million. Like most fully imported Mercedes-Benz models, all authorised three-pointed star dealers are fully equipped to assist you in choosing your ideal spec for your next Dream Car.
IMAGE GALLERY
Mercedes-AMG S 63 Coupe

 S 63 4.0L V8
Mercedes-Benz S 560 Cabriolet

 S 560 4.0L V8


Lynk & Co is going racing in TCR Series, teases 500 hp concept car

Lynk & Co, the lifestyle automotive brand, showcased its
first-ever sedan back in 2017
. Now, the Chinese carmaker is venturing into motorsports with Cyan Racing in their Lynk & Co 03 TCR race car.
Lynk & Co together with Cyan Racing will be participating in the 2019 calendar FIA World Touring Car Championship programme, going up against seven global automotive brands – Audi, Alfa Romeo, Honda, Hyundai, Peugeot, SEAT and Volkswagen for the title of FIA World Touring Car Cup.
Vice President of Communications at Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, Victor Yang said: “The fusion between Lynk & Co and Cyan Racing will form the spearhead of our automotive performance debut. The combination of Lynk & Co’s challenge of auto industry conventions and Cyan Racing’s vast motorsport and performance experience are two key elements in this unique cooperation.”
The Lynk & Co 03 TCR will sport a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine making
350 hp
 and
420 Nm
, linked to a six-speed sequential gearbox. The race car has undergone a strict diet ahead of its racing season, now tipping the scale at 1,265 kg with an FIA approved roll cage, race seats and six-point HANS-compatible harnesses, fire extinguisher system and FIA safety fuel cell installed.
Another announcement from this new partnership is the two companies will be working closely together on a
500 hp high-performance concept car
 for the road, based on the TCR race car. Dubbed as the Lynk & Co 03 Cyan, the concept car will be the brand’s first step towards offering high-performance vehicles.
IMAGE GALLERY


Subaru is testing a WRX STI with a large GT Wing, S209?

Seems like the long-serving Subaru WRX STI, based on the fourth-generation WRX chassis, is getting another Special Edition series before the Japanese carmaker officially bids it goodbye. In a 30-second-long teaser, Subaru teased a more track-focused WRX STI that is set for debut at the 2019 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS).
Clad in heavy camouflage, the soon to be launched range topper gets a more aggressive body kit, rides lower than a standard WRX STI and a massive GT rear wing which leads us to believe that this could be the S209.
No mention of the powertrain specification but Subaru South Africa has managed to squeeze
353 hp
 and
464 Nm
 of torque from the EJ257 2.5-litre turbocharged boxer engine in their
Diamond Edition
. Expect the new car to feature beefier brakes, improved aero and a six-speed manual transmission.
IMAGE GALLERY
Subaru WRX STI Teaser


Mercedes-Benz global sales hit record-high in 2017, biggest market is… China

Mercedes-Benz has achieved its most successful year of all time in 2017, shifting a grand total of 2,289,344 vehicles worldwide, a 9.9 percent increase compared to the previous year. The all-time best yearly unit sales were driven by three core regions: Europe, Asia-Pacific and NAFTA. Unsurprisingly, China is the single largest consumer of the three-pointed star brand.
The
C-Class Saloon
 and Estate continue to be the volume seller for the brand with more than
415,000 units sold
 within the past year. About a quarter of them were the
long-wheelbase version of the C-Class Saloon
, which is produced and sold exclusively for the Chinese market. This goes to show how important is it for carmakers to meet each individual market customers’ requirements.
Among Daimler’s diverse range of portfolio, the
E-Class Saloon
 and Estate stood out to be the most popular model with over 350,000 units delivered to customers between January to December. This means that
an increase of 40.0%
 was achieved in the first full sales year of the new generation. In China, sales of the E-Class Saloon more than doubled in 2017 driven by the high-demand for the long-wheelbase version.
Mercedes-Benz’s SUV range also saw a solid growth of 14 percent, standing at more than
805,000 units
. The best-selling SUVs in 2017 were the
GLC
 and GLA while the
GLC coupe
 also played a strong role in driving SUV sales.
Britta Seeger, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG responsible for Mercedes-Benz Cars Marketing & Sales said, “The 58th consecutive record month to close the year underscores our customers’ trust in the first-class products from Mercedes-Benz. In 2017, we delivered approximately 2.3 million new vehicles with the three-pointed star, allowing us to further extend our lead in the premium segment by a significant margin.”
“Also in the new year, we will have the right car available for every customer. Overall, we will launch more than a dozen new models in 2018,” he added.


Gallery: BMW 530i M Sport & 530e PHEV M Sport – What’s the difference?

The facelift BMW 5 Series was
launched here in May
 this year to the tune of
RM368,122
 for the 530i M Sport and
RM317,534
 for the 530e PHEV M Sport. These prices are inclusive of a 2-year unlimited mileage warranty.
If you want the full 5-year unlimited mileage warranty, the 530i will set you back
RM384,942
 while the 530e PHEV is priced at
RM334,354
.
Aside from the substantial difference in price, there are plenty that separates the two from one another. On the outside, while both may be equipped with an M Sport bodykit and similar 19-inch Y-spoke Style 845 M wheels, the 530i is fitted with BMW Laser Lights for even further and better light projection. It can automatically turn on the high beam to brighten up the road ahead (even with other motorists around) without blinding them.
Notice the bottom of the 530i’s (right) number plate.
The 530i M Sport comes with a radar sensor at the front bumper for its adaptive cruise control feature with stop-go function. Both models are equipped with the Driving Assistant package which includes features like autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
530i
530e PHEV
The two 5’s have vastly different boot capacity as well. As the 530e PHEV is fitted with batteries at the rear, the boot floor is slightly higher, with a capacity of just 410 litres. The 530i on the other hand can gobble up to 530 litres of cargo.
530i
530e
Notice how the centre console is different between the two. The 530e comes with the additional battery icon for the “Battery Control” where it allows you to keep the battery charge at a certain percentage so as to not drain the battery entirely. The ECO PRO button in the 530i is also replaced with one that says “Electric” in the 530e, making the car run purely on electric power.
530i
530e
Between the two, only the 530i gets the 16-speaker 464-watt Harman Kardon surround sound system. The 530e gets the standard 205-watt 12-speaker system.
The 530i also gets a sunroof and head-up display. Standard equipment on both variants include a larger 12.3-inch infotainment display and a digital instrument cluster of the same size.
It uses the B48 2.0-litre turbocharged engine with 184 hp and 300 Nm, combined with a 50kW electric motor. Total combined output is rated at 252 hp and 420 Nm. The 530e also uses an 8-speed automatic gearbox.
In terms of output, the 530i gets 252 hp and 350 Nm from the same B48 2.0-litre turbocharged engine paired to an 8-speed automatic. As for the 530e, it gets an updated powertrain as seen in the all-new 330e.
The 530e also comes with a new XtraBoost function that can temporarily increase output to 292 hp. Its battery is also larger, up to 12 kWh from 9.2 kWh. This allows the 530e to run purely on electric for up to 67 km, compared to 48 km previously.

GALLERY
BMW 530i M Sport
BMW 530e PHEV M Sport
530e PHEV


Would you get the BMW M2 Competition with a DCT or manual? From RM626k

BMW Malaysia has just unleashed their latest M car here on at Sepang International Circuit (SIC), the
BMW M2 Competition
. Sticking to its driver-focused ethos, the M2 Competition can be ordered with a three-pedal, 6-speed manual transmission.
Under the hood, rests the S55 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged in-line six shared with the M3 and
M4
 but detuned to develop
410 hp
and
550 Nm
of torque. Drive is transferred to the rear wheels via a 7-speed M dual-clutch transmission, but keen drivers can option the 6-speed manual from BMW Malaysia.

QUICK FACTS
 Name
 BMW M2 Competition
 Engine
 2,979cc; twin-turbo in-line 6
 Transmission
 7-Speed M dual-clutch
 Max Power
 410 hp @ 5,230 – 7,000 rpm
 Max Torque
 550 Nm @ 2,350 – 5,230 rpm
 0 – 100 km/h; Top Speed
 4.2 seconds; 250 km/h
 Price (OTR without insurance)
 RM626,800
Century sprint takes
4.2 seconds
on the DCT while the manual is a tad slower to the 100 km/h mark at 4.4 seconds. The M Driver’s Package was not optioned on the local-spec car hence top is limited to 250 km/h. The M2 Competition also benefits from the new carbon fibre high-precision strut and bulkhead strut, recalibrated electric power steering and Dynamic Stability Control.
Our local-spec M2
Competition is dressed in the 19-inch style 437 M light alloy wheels wrapped in
245/35 front and 265/35 rear profile tyres, BMW individual high-gloss Shadow
Line, M exhaust system with quad exits, M rear spoiler and M specific side
mirror caps.
Differentiating the M2
Competition from a regular M2 are the larger kidney grilles, restyle air
intakes and a larger rear diffuser. All these works together to give the baby M
car better aerodynamics and cooling.
Inside, you’ll find
the M gear selector, carbon fibre interior trims, red start/stop button, M
leather steering wheel, M seat belts and M designation on the door sills. Other
than that, standard kit includes 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system,
reverse camera, 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, powered front seats with
memory function and keyless entry and start.
The new BMW M2
Competition is available in five exterior shades Alpine White, Black Sapphire
Metallic, Long Beach Blue Metallic, Hockenheim Silver Metallic and Sunset
Orange Metallic which is paired with orange contrast stitching while the rest
gets blue stitching instead.
Every purchase comes
with a 5-Years Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Scheduled Maintenance,
2-Years Tyre Warranty, BMW Roadside Assistance and Accident Hotline, BMW Group
Loyalty+ Mobile App (BMW White Card) and BMW Service Online.
IMAGE GALLERY
BMW M2 Competition in Long Beach Blue Launched in Malaysia
BMW M2 Competition in Hockenheim Silver Launched in Malaysia


Volkswagen’s first convertible SUV will be based on the T-Roc, 2020 debut

Following the success of the new
Volkswagen T-Roc
, Volkswagen has given the green light to build a convertible version of the compact SUV. This will be the Volkswagen’s first ever attempt at a convertible SUV and was deemed essential to grow the brand’s SUV range.
At a board meeting, Volkswagen Group Supervisory Board has confirmed an investment of more than €80 million (RM384 million) to produce the T-Roc convertible at their Osnabrück plant in Germany. The new model is set to hit production floors in the first half of 2020 and is expected to reinforce Volkswagens presence in the compact SUV segment.
CEO of the Volkswagen brand, Dr. Herbert Diess says: “Volkswagen is evolving into an SUV brand. The T-Roc is already setting new standards in the compact SUV segment. With the cabriolet based on the T-Roc, we will be adding a highly emotional model to the range. I am especially pleased to note that we can count on the Osnabrück team’s decades of experience with convertibles.”
SUVs are currently the key growth driver of the Volkswagen brand as proven with 720,000
Tiguan
 delivered throughout its production lifespan, the Tiguan is among the top 10 best-selling models in the world. By 2020, the brand intends to expand its SUV range to 20 models worldwide as they anticipate
40 percent of vehicles sold
 will be SUV’s. With the new T-Roc convertible, Volkswagen is adding a convertible option for customers in fast-growing SUV segment.
IMAGE GALLERY
Volkswagen T-Roc Convertible Teaser

Volkswagen T-Roc SUV


Here’s how you can win a trip to the Japanese F1 Grand Prix in Suzuka

Honda Malaysia is giving you the opportunity to win an exclusive trip worth up to RM30,000 to Japan to be part of the 2018 Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix at the Suzuka Circuit in October.
As part of the “Sprint to Suzuka Circuit” campaign, those who purchase and register their
FK8 Honda Civic Type R
 from
 April to June 2018
 will stand a chance to win the exclusive trip by filling up a form and
answering two short questions
 at any of Honda’s 20 Sport Dealers (refer below).
10 winners (with the most creative answers) will each receive two Business Class flight tickets, two tickets to watch the 2018  Japanese Formula 1 Grand Prix, five days four nights accommodation in Japan and two official Honda merchandise, all
worth up to RM30,000
.
Besides being the most powerful Honda model ever sold in Malaysia with
308 hp
 and
400 Nm
 of torque, it is also one of the fastest cars in the world renowned Nurburgring circuit in Germany – a common proving ground for modern performance cars.
Every Civic Type R is sold with its own special serial number plate positioned strategically on the center console – as a reminder of the Civic Type.
Since it was open for booking on the 1st October 2017, Honda Malaysia has received more than
100 bookings
 for the All-New Civic Type R. The fully imported All-New Civic Type R is priced at RM320,000 on-the-road without insurance. For more information on the All-New Civic Type R, please call Honda’s Toll Free number at 1-800-88-2020 or log on to www.honda.com.my
List of Honda Sport dealers:
Central
Autoworld Asia Sdn Bhd
East Coast
Sykt Tan Eng Ann Sdn Bhd
Central
Botanic Auto Mall Sdn Bhd
East M’sia
Syarikat Labuan Automobile Sdn Bhd
Central
Global Amity Sdn Bhd (Bangi)
Northern
Ban Hoe Seng (Auto) Sdn Bhd
Central
Kah Motor Co Sdn Bhd – Selayang
Northern
Formula Venture Sdn Bhd
Central
Sri Utama Auto Sdn Bhd
Northern
Kah Motor Co Sdn Bhd – Sg Pinang
Central
MH Prestige Auto Sdn Bhd
Northern
Lee Motor SP (Car Div) Sdn Bhd
Central
USJ Car Express Sdn Bhd
Northern
Yooi Cars Sdn Bhd
Central
Peringgit Sri Motor Sdn Bhd
Southern
Ban Lee Heng Motor Sdn Bhd (Seremban)
Central
Tenaga Setia Resources Sdn Bhd
Southern
Syarikat Motor GS Tay Sdn Bhd
Central
The Millenium Auto Carriage
Southern
Yong Ming Motor Sdn Bhd
IMAGE GALLERY


You can now buy a perfume that makes you smell like a new car

To some people, the smell of a new car that’s just rolled off the showroom floor is as intoxicating and addictive as… let’s say coffee. Hey, we don’t judge – we do quite enjoy it ourselves in the test cars we’ve been in too.
However, not everyone has the perk of getting a new car every couple of weeks. If you’re the kind of person who can’t get enough of that new car smell, the guys at
Auto Trader
 has got you covered.
 https://twitter.com/darrencassey/status/1239602969554948104
Motoring Journalist Darren Cassey reviews a fragrance.
We use “you” quite liberally here, because its limited quantity means that only those staying in the UK will be able to buy one, and that’s if you’re really willing to spend
175 Pounds
 (RM928 – as much as a monthly loan repayment) on a
50 ml bottle
 of new car smell.
Aptly named Eau de New Car, the fragrance is actually for you, not your car. According to the frankly hilarious press material provided by Auto Trader, the scent smells like “fine leathers and hard wax from the most premium of vehicles”, and is “designed to recreate the heady emotion of the first journey in a new car”.

Eau de New Car was developed by Auto Trader following their own research on the British consumers, which found that
25% of British adults associate the new car smell with success
 – and success also equates to attractiveness, naturally.
Although this might sound very much like an April Fools joke, Auto Trader wants you to know that they are very much serious about it – so much so that they hired former Top Gear presenter Rory Reid to shoot an advert for the product.
“Let’s face it – the feeling you get when getting into a brand-new car is unforgettable. From the shine of the metal, smoothness of the leather and the sense of pride you get taking it out for a spin for the first time – there’s little wonder that this is the scent we most associate with success. Why shouldn’t we be able to smell that scent and feel that way all the time?”, comments Reid.
If you’re interested in the “personal spritz of success”, the limited-edition Eau de New Car is available for sale on the
Auto Trader website
. Of course, you’ll have to sort out the logistics to ship it to Malaysia.


Watch this Mercedes-Benz park itself with the “Automatic Valet Parking”

Daimler and Bosch’s Automated Valet Parking joint project which debuted in the parking lot of the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart in 2017, has now been premiered in Beijing.
It enables vehicles to proceed to an assigned space and for the user to retrieve the vehicle via their smartphone. It begins when the user parks the vehicle in a designated drop-off area before sending it to be parked using the smartphone app.
https://assets.autobuzz.my/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/18155914/Daimler_China_Automated_Valet_Parking_Pilot_2018_with_Bosch.mp4
After being registered by the intelligent system installed in the car park, the vehicle is started and guided to an assigned parking space. Sensors installed in the car park monitor the driving corridor and its surroundings while steering the vehicle.
The vehicle’s on-board technology safely maneuvers it in response to commands from the intelligent car park infrastructure, stopping the vehicle in good time when necessary. When a user is ready to pick up the car, it can be called through a smartphone app, after which it rolls to the pick-up area without a driver.
Car parks equipped with the Automated Valet Parking can potentially accommodate up to 20 percent more vehicles while users save time and enjoy greater convenience.


Lotus unleashes its new 400 hp Emira GT4 race car

Lotus has been synonymous with motorsports since its inception over 70 years ago and the journey continues even though a
transformation to electric
 has just begun at the other end of the world.
The recently launched
Lotus Emira

sportscar will have a competition-spec GT4 challenger that is developed together with project partner RML Group.
The mid-engine racer uses the 3.5-litre Toyota 2GR-FE V6 engine with pressures boosted via a Harrop TVS 1900 supercharger. To promote a competitive field and placing the skills on drivers and strategy rather than machinery, a balance of performance (BOP) formula by FIA and race organisers will limit the engine output, with Lotus estimating
400 hp
 for now.
A 6-speed xTrac racing transmission with a paddle-shifting system will take care of gear shifting duties, with the driver viewing all vital dashboard information via Motec-supplied hardware with data-logging and bespoke motorsport wiring loom.
Stopping power includes a motorsport-specific ABS from Bosch activating on Alcon calipers and brake discs. Additional aerodynamic upgrades on the exterior include a large adjustable rear wing and front splitter. Extensive use of advanced composite materials on the exterior and interior ensures a healthy starting weight of 1,260 kg for the Lotus Emira GT4, which will be further adjusted following the BOP formula.
The Lotus Emira GT4 is expected to race around the world in 2022 with other FIA GT4-homologated racing machines such as the BMW M4 (F82),
Porsche 718 Cayman CS MR
, Toyota GR Supra,
Mercedes-AMG GT
,
McLaren 570S
 as well as the
Aston Martin Vantage AMR
.
Lotus plants to increase production from 2023 in line with global demand and supply, as the return of motorsport is a key pillar of the company’s transformation. Earlier this year, Lotus Engineering, the consultancy division of the business, became technical partner to JBXE, the Extreme E race team led by F1 world champion
Jenson Button
.
A formal launch of the Lotus Emira GT4 will take place later this year at an event on the Hethel test track.
Being British, it’s no surprise to see a Lotus turned into a police car. Check out the Lotus Evora Police Car’s cool livery here!


Honda Civic Type R makes ASEAN debut in Vietnam

The highly-awaited
 Honda Civic Type R
 has just been unveiled at the 2022 Vietnam Motor Show, marking the debut of the performance model in the region ahead of Malaysia and Thailand. The Vietnamese launch comes just three months after the model has officially gone on sale in Japan.
The Honda Civic Type R will be offered in Vietnam in “limited quantities”, with deliveries scheduled to begin by the second quarter of 2023. While pricing for the Type R in Vietnam is not officially available just yet, it is estimated to run around USD100,000 (approx. RM474k), making it certainly an expensive endeavour – which looks especially bad with our weakening Malaysian Ringgit.
Screenshot:
 Honda Vietnam/Facebook
The sixth-generation Honda Civic Type R is powered by a revamped K20C1 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four engine, making
315 hp
 and
420 Nm
. Power is sent to the front wheels as always via a six-speed manual transmission and a helical-type limited-slip differential.
Despite its (relatively) subdued looks, Honda says most of the exterior body panels are specifically designed for the Civic Type R, with aerodynamic appendages to increase downforce and cooling, while the fenders are also widened to accommodate the wider tracks on the Type R.
ALSO READ:
All-new Honda Civic Type R gets toned-down looks, but spiced-up performance
Will the Vietnamese pricing be translated to our Ringgit when the Honda Civic Type R launches here in Malaysia? Considering that Vietnam also imposes a fairly heavy tax on imported vehicles, we’d expect our Malaysian pricing to not stray too far off from what our neighbours have.
At RM470k, that’s almost a 50% increase in price over the previous-generation model here in Malaysia. Keep in mind that the number is exaggerated by our weak Malaysian Ringgit currently, but even with a stronger currency, it’s still quite a sizeable hike.
With Honda
 only building 400 units of the Civic Type R per month
, though, it’s going to be a long wait either way before anyone gets their cars, so hopefully the Ringgit would have recovered a little bit by then…
RELATED:
Honda dealer begins taking orders for all-new Civic Type R in Malaysia – real or scam?


Pump Caltex fuels and you could win a Volvo XC40!

No, the Volvo isn’t a scale model and if the stars align, you could be driving home a Volvo XC40 SUV – winner of the European and Japanese Car of the Year awards – as long as you make a minimum fuel purchase of RM40 at any Caltex station and submit your contest entry from now till 31
st
 October 2019.
Here’s how you do it. After filling your car up with at least
RM40
worth of fuel (petrol or diesel) in a single receipt, Whatsapp your entry to
018 299 9980
 with the following details:
Full name (as per IC)
IC number
Transaction date
Transacted amount in RM
Snap and attach the image of the receipt (make sure it is clear and legible)
If you have a Caltex Journey card membership, include that too
Prizes that can be won include:
Grand prize: Volvo XC40
Second prize: Caltex StarCash Petrol Card worth
RM5,000 each (30 winners)
Third prize: Caltex JOURNEY Card with 5,000
BPoints, Techron Concentrate Plus and Havoline Pro DS Fully Synthetic (30
winners)
Additionally, third prize winners will also win the following
Special Prizes each month:
Dashcam (10 lucky draw winners for month of
August 2019)
GoPro Cameras (10 lucky draw winners for the
month of September 2019)
Michelin tyres worth RM2,000 (10 lucky draw
winners for the month of October 2019)

The contest is in celebration of the ‘Fastest Ascent of Doi Chang Mountain Road by Car’; a new Guinness World Record achieved by professional race car driver, Natasha Chang who drove a Honda EG6 powered by with Caltex with Techron.


The retro-styled Porsche 911 Sport Classic is the most powerful manual 911 you can buy

Are you the sort of person who says “the best music was from the 70s”, or “cars should come with three pedals and (at least) six cylinders”? Well, Porsche has just released what might be the perfect car for you. It’s called the 911 Sport Classic, and it’s designed to look – at least in spirit – like the original 911 Carrera RS 2.7 from 1972.
It does so by taking a standard
992-generation Porsche 911 Turbo
, and throwing on a whole slew of cosmetic upgrades inspired by the OG. Most noticeably are the new classically-styled fixed ducktail rear spoiler at the back and the double-bubble scalloped roof design, the latter also matched with a unique front bonnet – all of which are made out of carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP).
There’s also a new fixed front lip spoiler that replaces the Turbo’s active item, while the two-tone staggered centre-locking alloy wheels (measuring 20 inches in front and 21 at the rear) are also inspired by the iconic Fuchs design.
In addition to the actual physical new design elements, Porsche has also created a brand-new body paint colour for the new model called Sport Grey Metallic, inspired by the 356’s Fashion Grey. And to complete the new (old) look, the 911 Sport Classic will also come with Light Sport Grey racing stripes along the top of the car, and the Porsche script across the doors.
Porsche is even offering a white and black racing number roundel decal on the sides at no extra charge – where you can even choose your own racing number from zero to 99. But if you’re not a fan of the more motorsports-inspired touches, you can opt to remove the racing numbers and even the entire graphics package altogether, but why would you?
The Sport Classic takes on the Turbo’s wider bodystyle, but crucially, the massive air scoop on the rear fender has been deleted here to mimic the clean lines of the OG 911 Carrera RS. This required Porsche to create a completely new tooling for the Sport Classic for the new body panels starting from the front of the doors to the rear of the car. Cooling duties are now passed on to the new ducts near the spoiler.
Capping off the looks are the swath of special badging, including a 1963-style Porsche logo, plus the “Porsche 911 Sport Classic” scripts at the back, plated in real gold. And if you’re not a fan of the grey hue, the Sport Classic will also be available in a non-metallic Black, Agate Grey Metallic, or Gentian Blue Metallic, or basically any colour you can dream of thanks to Porsche’s Paint to Sample service. But again, there are other 911s for that…
The retro-inspired styling continues onto the interior of the Sport Classic, with a tasteful black and cognac semi-aniline leather upholstery, plus the “pepita” houndstooth black-and-white pattern on the fabric seat centres and door panels. Although, Porsche is again also offering the boring souls an all-black interior.
Elsewhere, you’ll also find the sleek matte-finished paldao wood trims on the dashboard, aluminium illuminated scuff plates, Heritage Design displays on the digital instrument cluster, gold numbered 911 badge, and to tie it all up is the excellent green lettering on the rev counter.
RELATED: All-new Porsche 911 GT3 now in Malaysia; PDK, 6MT or Touring available, from RM1.77 mil
For those wishing for a retro air-cooled engine to go with the old-school looks, sorry – times have moved on. But there are still many things on the Porsche 911 Sport Classic to get excited about, including a seven-speed manual gearbox instead of the PDK of the Turbo. Unlike the 911 Turbo, the drive is also sent exclusively to the rear wheels.
Underneath the rear engine cover is the same 3.7-litre twin-turbo flat-six, although it’s 30 hp and 150 Nm down from the Turbo at
 550 hp
 and
600 Nm
 of torque. But still, it’s still the most powerful manual-transmission 911 you can buy today, at 40 hp more than the
GT3 we tested in Sepang.
Keeping up with modern times, the gearbox will come with an auto-blip function to compensate for many driver’s inability to do a heel-toe downshift. The sports exhaust – which comes as standard on the Sport Classic – is also specially tailored to the model for an “even more emotive sound experience”.
Sports suspension also comes as standard, which lowers the 911 Sport Classic’s ride height by 10 mm, and there’s also the Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) on board too which allows the shock absorbers to respond to dynamic changes at lightning speed.
ALSO READ: Porsche 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition now in Malaysia, from RM1.6 million
Only 1,250 of the Sport Classics will ever be made, and it’s priced – in Europe at least – at EUR272,714 (approx. RM975k) before options. If you’re feeling fancy, you can even buy a Porsche Design Chronograph 911 sport Classic watch (EUR12,500/RM57k), with green markings and houndstooth pattern on the dial to match the car.
GALLERY


2016 Toyota Innova coming to Malaysia soon, 3 variants, priced from RM109k

UMW Toyota plans to end the year with a bang with the launch of the all-new Innova. The second-generation MPV will be offered in three variants, with prices beginning from RM109k to RM126k.
First debuted in the Indonesian market in late 2015, the Innova shares the new IMV platform underpinning the
Hilux
and
Fortuner
. This means the Innova gets a ladder frame configuration and will be rear-wheel driven just like the older model. For those looking for an MPV that seats more than seven, then good news, because like the old model, this is an
eight seater
.
All three variants will be powered by a
2.0-litre Dual VVT-i
 Engine that is expected to push out 137 hp at 5,600 rpm and 183 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. A
five-speed manual
 and
six-speed automatic
 transmissions are offered in this new Innova.
Thai-spec Innova
As usual, the model lineup begins with the E trim, which can be had in both tranmissions. It receives a silver radiator grille and body coloured door handles, Monochrome Multi-info display, and
 three airbags
 (two front & driver knee).
The range topping G variant is only available with an automatic transmission, and gets a chromed grille and door handles, 4.2-inch colour multi-info screen, push start button and
seven airbags
. Just like the
Sienta
 sibling, it receives active safety kit ranging from Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Hill Assist and Emergency Stop Signal. As a matter of fact, the five-airbag variant of the Innova aced in the
ASEAN NCAP
 crash test. The E variant which lacks active safety features scored a decent four-star.
The new Innova is now open for booking at any UMW Toyota showrooms nationwide, although no launch dates have been revealed thus far. The OTR pricing as stated on
UMW Toyota’s website
 remains as estimated figures. The Base E manual model begins at
RM109,000.00
 while the automatic variant costs
 RM117,000.00
. The range-topping G automatic could be yours at
RM126,000.00
. A total of six exterior colour are available as well.
IMAGE GALLERY


What is Mitsubishi up to with the Xpander? Ralliart Edition?

For the past couple of weeks, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia has been releasing teaser videos on its Instagram page related to the Xpander crossover that’s stirring up curiosity on the social media platform. It’s also making us wonder, will there be a special edition Xpander coming soon? Or are they merely building a showcase unit just to show off the Xpander’s ‘sporty side’?
The first Instagram reel revealed a different set of wheels fitted onto the Xpander that seems to be made in collaboration between McClubz and Tengku Djan.
Those who are more familiar with the aftermarket scene could be pointing to the Raxer RP10X wheels that range up to 17-inch in size. Look closely and you’d also notice the wheels being paired with Kumho tyres as opposed to the Toyo CR1 tyres used in the standard Xpander. Either ways, looking at the screenshots here, it seems to fit the Xpander wheel arches really well – looking really flush!
In the follow-up Instagram reel, things get a little more exciting as the company showed the Xpander being wrapped extensively, with computer graphics giving a glimpse of what the end product would look like. That’s not all, it also looks like the Xpander is sporting a roof scoop, larger rear spoiler, and sporty front and rear bumpers.
What do you think it could be? What do you want it to be? Stay tuned to find out but in the mean time, check out the final reveal
here
!


All-new Toyota Land Cruiser premiered, twin-turbo engines plus sporty GR variant

Toyota has finally unveiled the all-new Land Cruiser, replacing the outgoing 200-series that has been in production since September 2007. The new model builds on Land Cruiser’s 70-year heritage and more than 10 million sales across 170 countries and regions.
The world premiere of the new model dubbed the 300-series took place in one of the Land Cruiser’s biggest market- Dubai. The all-new Land Cruiser now features a new TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) platform that is bespoke for the model, as it is the first to be designed for a body-on-frame application.
Toyota celebrates Land Cruiser’s 70th Anniversary with a special edition Prado (150-series)
The
new GA-F platform
 was designed to be stiffer yet lighter, with the overall weight of the new Land Cruiser some 200 kg lower than its predecessor. Apart from a lighter chassis, advancement in powertrain technologies also means more compact engine and transmission units are used in the new Land Cruiser.
Two new twin-turbocharged V6 engines are on offer, with the 3.5-litre petrol developing
415 hp
 and
650 Nm
 of torque. The diesel mill meanwhile generates
309 hp
 and
700 Nm
 of torque. Both engines are paired with a new 10-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive.
The suspension system now features a world-first
Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS)
, where hydraulic fluid is used to keep the body level on smooth roads while extending suspension stroke during off-road. Other areas of improvement for better off-road driving include a Multi-Terrain Monitor and the Multi-Terrain Select drive mode.
The all-new Land Cruiser will also offer a sportier
GR variant
 that has a honeycomb grille and gloss black highlights based on observation of the images.
The new Toyota Fortuner with 204 hp / 500 Nm is now fitted with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
As for the safety system, the Toyota Safety Sense driver assistance system now adds an oncoming traffic and pedestrian detection function while the new Land Cruiser is turning at an intersection. A new emergency steering and crash avoidance will also be featured to avoid a collision via steering and lane-keeping assistance.
More information on the new Land Cruiser 300-series will be presented by Toyota as the global launch and introduction to key markets begins from this summer.
GALLERY


Ahead of Axia, Toyota unveils all-new Agya in Indonesia with GR Sport variant

While we are still waiting anxiously for the Perodua Axia’s official
launch here in Malaysia tomorrow
, Toyota took first dibs by unveiling the all-new Agya in Indonesia earlier today.
The Toyota Agya, alongside the Daihatsu Ayla, are essentially the Perodua Axia’s Indonesian twins, and as such share the same underpinnings as our national car, based atop the Daihatsu New Global Architecture (DNGA) platform.
Screenshot: Toyota Indonesia/YouTube
Unlike our
upcoming Perodua Axia
, which is powered by a 1.0-litre three-cylinder mill, the Toyota Agya in Indonesia will instead get a larger 1.2-litre four-cylinder engine. Toyota did not share further details on the Agya’s powertrain, but did indicate that it’ll be a new engine for the model.
For context, the outgoing 1.2-litre mill makes
88 hp
 and
108 Nm
, with power sent to the front wheels via a four-speed automatic gearbox. On the all-new model, the bew 1.2-litre engine will instead be paired to the new Dual-Mode CVT (D-CVT) gearbox, just like most of its other DNGA brethens.
RELATED:
 2023 Perodua Axia scores 4 stars in ASEAN NCAP crash test, to launch soon
Toyota Agya
Perodua Axia
In terms of styling, the Toyota Agya is essentially identical to the upcoming Perodua Axia that was
previewed last week
, albeit with a unique Toyota-exclusive front fascia design characterised by a larger front opening.
The Agya also gets a pair of slimmer headlights, with the daytime-running light signature forming a sharp boomerang shape above the main headlight elements, instead of an underline design as seen on the Perodua Axia.
Just like the outgoing generation, the all-new Toyota Agya will also be offered in a GR Sport variant in Indonesia, equipped with sportier bumpers, and what looks like a set of larger alloy wheels, complemented by a two-tone paint job on the outside.
Inside, the all-new Toyota Agya is also essentially a carbon copy of our upcoming Perodua Axia, sharing the same dashboard design. However, based on the single photo shown during the launch livestream, it appears that the Agya will feature a slightly different air-con control unit on the centre stack, and it also lacks the digital instrument cluster that we’re getting on the range-topping 2023 Perodua Axia.
This could however just be based on a lower-spec variant of the all-new Agya, as Toyota only unveiled two variants today during the global debut – the G and GR Sport. The latter could feature the same seven-inch digital instrument cluster as our Axia, and even more variant-exclusive touches, although we’ll need more photos and information to confirm that.
Now that we’ve seen the sportier Toyota Agya GR Sport in Indonesia, are you hoping to see a similarly spruced-up version of the Perodua Axia tomorrow? Drop your thoughts in the comment section below!


The sun is no longer the enemy with 3M’s Crystalline tint

Walk along the streets of our cities or drive on our roads and you’ll notice that every car in Malaysia has something in common. Every window is darkened, every windscreen has a dark film that will keep the sun out and the interior of the car cosy and cool even in our hot climate.
It’s a thing that unites us, a little like our pride in our national cuisines or our disappointment in the Government.
A few keystrokes on the Internet will reveal that there are too many brands of window tints in our country. However, even if you have lived under a rock, there’s no doubt you would’ve heard of 3M.
THE PRODUCT
3M is a multinational conglomerate. One of the things they do is provide automotive tinting, and the best part is that they manufacture the components required. This was said offhandedly (but with a hint of deserved pride) by their representative when we oversaw the tinting process of my car, a ZC32 Suzuki Swift Sport, together.
This is impressive, because then 3M has full control of the processes, from R&D to quality control. Take, for example the
3M AutoFilm Crystalline Series
. There are 200 layers of nanotechnology in this film, but it’s only 2mm thick.
3M has six other tinting products as well, ranging from darker tints to security-biased ones. The Crystalline Series stands out amongst them as the one that allows good light penetration (hence the name) but still records great heat rejection.
The final layer of the 200 is the adhesive, which 3M manufactures as well. This is great, because the formula is tailored specifically for the tint and it is uniformly distributed, ensuring a perfectly consistent adhesion.
For my car, I asked for the aforementioned Crystalline Series for a few reasons, even though it isn’t a security film. I wanted every window except the windscreen to have the same shade of tint, and I didn’t want to apply for darker tints.
If you recall,
the amended rules for car tint
 states that the front windscreen, and front passenger window must allow 70% and 50% VLT (Visible Light Transmission) respectively. Any higher and the user needs to apply for a special permit. All rear windows can be darkened with no restrictions.
3M’s security films start at a minimum of 40% VLT and following my preference, the technicians installed a tint that allowed 70% VLT on my windscreen and 50% VLT on every other window of the car.
THE SERVICE
Scrutinising the process from start to finish for the first time, what impressed me most were the ease in which the two technicians performed their duties.
The initial preparation of the car was finished meticulously and quickly in under an hour. A towel was always laid on every panel before work is performed so none of the mixture used to clean the glass seeped under the panels.
Interestingly, I discovered that the cleaning liquid is actually a mixture of baby shampoo and purified water. It leaves no residue so the tint will adhere properly without any awful markings beneath it.
Door panels were opened too, which is a necessary evil to ensure the tint goes all the way onto the bottom of the glass. Thankfully, it didn’t cause any new rattles after as the experienced technicians put it back together splendidly.
Attention to detail also extended to my SmarTag usage as I was advised to leave a small rectangle on the top right corner of my windshield untinted for unobstructed passage through the toll gates. This was fantastic advice as the tint blocks out 97% of infrared light which would render the device useless.
My appointment was for 2pm in the afternoon, and before the clock turned four, the job was done. Usually, it takes an hour longer, but as the car did not have prior tinting that required removal, it was a faster procedure.
The final flourish to the process was a five-year warranty certificate that was sent to me within a day.
THE EXPERIENCE
Immediately after the installation, we took readings of the sun outside, as you can see from the pictures below. The glass by itself removed 12% of the solar energy (here’s
an explanation on BTU
if you’re feeling nerdy), while the tint on the front windshield eliminated 91%.
BTU reading of the sun without the tint.
And a reading with the tint.
The tint on the side windows are at an angle relative to the sun and is also a little darker, so it removed 94% of the energy.
It’s quite an improvement and of course, when on the move the interior of the car is an infinitely cooler place to be. Coming back to the car after leaving it out in the sun all day is no longer hazardous to my sanity or health, as having the film also removes almost all UV rays.
Overall, it was a fine experience to have left my car in their capable hands. The workmanship is without fault and the edges of the film ran parallel to the frames of the glass. There was also no leftover odour that usually comes with the use of adhesives.
Huge thanks to 3M for sponsoring the product, and to
Starblaze Tinted Solutions
 for handling the job with such care.
The price and some specifications of the film are as below:

3M AutoFilm Crystalline Series
:
 please disregard the 6% GST
As mentioned above, 3M has a whole selection of tints to match your needs and your budget. The Ebony Series, for example, starts at RM1400 for standard saloons and they also have a coating called the Ceramic 9H Coating if you want to protect your paint. You can drop by at any of their authorised dealers to find out more.
IMAGE GALLERY – BEFORE

IMAGE GALLERY – AFTER
IMAGE GALLERY – WORK IN PROGRESS


Mercedes-Benz Financial reveals new financing programme for fully electric EQA 250

Following the launch of the
 fully-electric Mercedes-Benz EQA 250
, starting from
RM278,201
, Mercedes-Benz Financial has announced the Step Up Agility Financing program to tempt you into EV ownership.
For the EQA 250, there are two 5-year Step Up Financing plans available. The
first option
sees an initial monthly instalment of RM2,288 for the first two years followed by RM4,148 for the 3rd to 5th year. The
second option
 is RM2,288 for the 1st year, followed by RM2,688 for the 2nd year and RM3,994 for the 3rd to 5th year.
With the Guaranteed Future Value, customers may opt to refinance, return, or keep the vehicle at the end of the tenure. Mercedes-Benz will purchase back from the customer at a predetermined price if customers opt to return the car at the end of the lease.
In addition to the Step Up Agility Financing, with Mobility Plus, customers will be entitled to a replacement car not more than four years old with free drop off and pick up within 24 hours of approval.
There is also the option to Lease & Go where customers can lease the EQA 250 for four years or less, starting from RM5,392 a month. No downpayment is required, and it includes motor insurance and road tax.
GALLERY


Perodua offer free inspection & discount on parts for owners affected by Penang flood

In light of the ongoing flood disaster in Penang, Perodua will be offering their assistance to all Perodua owners affected by the unfortunate incident to relieve some of the burden of repairing their Perodua vehicles.
Perodua is offering free inspections to value the damages as well as discounts on selected parts. Owners can refer to Perodua service outlets in Juru, Prai and Kulim for further assistance on their flood-damaged vehicles and receive
20 percent discount
 on all electronic items, carpet, vehicle seats, door trims and engine overhaul gasket.
“Our customers matter most to us and these value added services are provided to help relieve some of the burden our customers have to deal with during this disaster,” Perodua Sales Sdn Bhd Managing Director, Dato’ Dr. Zahari Husin said.
Dato’ Dr. Zahari added, “While a few of our service centres in Penang are affected by the flood, our customers are welcomed to refer to our service outlets in Juru, Prai and Kulim for assistance. That being said, we are doing our best to resume our operations (at the affected areas) as quickly as possible”
Affected customers can contact Perodua’s toll-free customer care line at 1-800-88-5555 for towing assistance (terms and conditions apply).


Subaru Forester STI Performance comes with STI air filter, brake pads & more

TC Subaru Sdn Bhd, the official distributor of Subaru vehicles in Malaysia has just introduced a new variant to the Forester line up, the Subaru Forester 2.0 STI Performance. This time, it’s not just slapping on STI aesthetic bits but genuine mechanically enhancing STI parts.
Let’s start with the visual bits, the Forester STI Performance now gets additional STI front and rear under spoilers, STI front grille, cargo step panel while the cabin gains leather seats with red accents, premium carpet mats, side sill plate as well as STI leather shift knob.

Buyers who opt for the STI Performance variant will be happy to know that their Forester will come with an STI Flexible Tower Bar (front strut bars), STI brake pads and STI air filter – giving the SUV incremental improvements to the handling, braking and engine response.
Despite that, the 2.0-litre four-cylinder boxer engine still produces a maximum output of
150 hp
 and
198 Nm
 of torque. The naturally aspirated mill is paired to the same Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that drives all four wheels via the brand’s famed Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (S-AWD) system.
Other onboard technologies that make the Forester safe on and off-road include seven airbags, X-MODE, Hill Descent Control (HDC), Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) and others. The Subaru Forester 2.0 STI Performance can be yours for RM135,288, on-the-road without insurance.
IMAGE GALLERY


The M Performance Kit just made the BMW 3-Series Touring that much cooler!

It’s almost customary now to expect an M Performance kit every time a new model BMW is launched and the
 BMW 3-series Touring
 was no exception from the cooler department of BMW.
For starters, there’s the Style 796 18-inch M Performance light alloy wheels that offers shelter for the M Performance brakes, which looks simply stunning!

Here’s GC Mah’s take on the latest G20 BMW 3-series.
You may have seen them before, that’s because they were displayed at the
local launch of the new 3-series
and the
global unveiling of the G20
. As always, the kit also offers a wheel bag for those with a serious case of OCD over the condition of their wheels.
Aside from the head-turning wheels, the exterior can also be amplified by an M Performance rear diffuser, rear spoiler, carbon fibre side mirror caps, and the most unique of all is the M Performance front ornamental grille “Iconic Glow” where the radiator grilles light up when the vehicle is locked and unlocked.
As for the cabin, options include an M Performance Alcantara steering wheel, carbon fibre shift paddles, Alcantara gaiter for the manual models and M Performance floor mats.
What I find to be a little tacky but unfortunately is to the liking of most people are the LED door projectors; as if a car with such dramatic aesthetics isn’t enough. It’s just a bit of an unnecessary farce – further fueling the already inflated egos of most luxury vehicle owners, in Malaysia at least.
IMAGE GALLERY


2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC teased – all-new model to launch in Malaysia next week?

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia
 has once again taken to its
social media platforms
 to tease the arrival of what looks like a new model. More specifically, the darkened photo looks exactly like the headlights of the
all-new X254-generation 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC
.
With a caption inviting its customers to a test-drive event at Plaza Arkadia, Desa ParkCity on the 8th and 9th April, could the all-new 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC be launched here in Malaysia next week? Well, we’ll let you decide for yourselves.
The X254-generation Mercedes-Benz GLC made its global debut back in June last year, with a mostly evolutionary design update, but a fairly important change underneath the sheet metal – it’s now only offered with electrified powertrains.
On the petrol-powered end, there’s the Mercedes-Benz GLC 200 and GLC 300. Both of these variants are powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four engine, paired to a 48V integrated starter-generator (ISG) motor for a mild hybrid (MHEV) set-up – the latter providing an additional 23 hp and 200 Nm of boost momentarily when needed.
RELATED:
All-new 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe pairs familiar looks with new-age tech
In terms of outputs, the base GLC 200 offers
 204 hp
 and
320 Nm
, while the GLC 300 gets
258 hp
and
400 Nm
. Both variants get the marque’s 4Matic all-wheel drive system and a nine-speed automatic gearbox as standard.
Globally, the all-new Mercedes-Benz GLC will also be offered with two plug-in hybrid variants, namely the GLC 300e and GLC 400e. They both also build off the same 2.0-litre turbocharged mill, but are paired to a gearbox-mounted electric motor that provides 136 hp and 440 Nm of torque. Combined, the GLC 300e boasts a total system output of
313 hp
 and
550 Nm
, while the GLC 400e takes it up a notch at
381 hp
 and
650 Nm
.
If – or rather when – the all-new 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC makes its way over to Malaysia, the most obvious variants to be introduced here in Malaysia are the two MHEVs. However, with the launch of the
 GLC 300e Coupe
 here last year, we could possibly see the all-new Mercedes-Benz GLC 300e 4Matic making an appearance here in Malaysia too.


Volkswagen Golf GTI First Decade hybrid concept, a 402 hp GTI of the future!

The annual “Worthersee” event in Austria is the time where young apprentices from Volkswagen AG gather to unravel their engineering prowess. This year, these apprentices have created what’s supposed to be the future Golf GTI. Enter the Volkswagen Golf GTI First Decade hybrid.
The GTI First Decade is just in its concept form (Volkswagen is currently offering the plug-in hybrid
Golf GTE
 in certain markets) yet packs a combined output of
402 hp
from the 2.0-litre petrol engine and a
48V 12kW
 electric motor. The former drives the front wheel while the latter drives the rear.

The concept’s party trick this: drivers can choose which axle to lay down all that power. Either to the front, rear or even all-wheel drive. Most interestingly of all, it can be done via a smartphone app connected to the infotainment system. Inside, the two front seats will get massage function as well!
Being young adults, the 11-speaker sound system with subwoofer and LED lighting are commissioned for this concept. The Atlantic Blue Metallic paint here represent the Worthersee lake and blue sky, while the number 10 indicates the 10th Worthersee project by Volkswagen.
Joining the Golf GTI First Decade in Worthersee is the
Golf GTE Estate impulsE
. Just like that GTI, the wagon is yet another hybrid with more emphasis in environmental friendliness. For instance, battery size is doubled from
8.8kWh to 18.8kWh
!
Whether or not these concepts will be realised one day remains to be seen. But one thing’s for sure, Volkswagen’s pool of young talents seems broadly promising. Also, notice how big of a zero emissions fan these guys are?
IMAGE GALLERY


BMW i7 eDrive50 unveiled – New entry-level variant, up to 611km of range

After launching the
controversial-looking
 seventh-generation
BMW 7 series
 and
BMW i7
 in April 2022, BMW has just unveiled the third variant of the all-electric BMW i7. Known as the BMW i7 eDrive50, the all-electric luxury sedan will be slotted under the BMW i7 xDrive60 and M70 xDrive, and will be available from
July 2023
 onwards.
The BMW i7 eDrive50 comes with the latest BMW eDrive technology in the form of a highly integrated electric drive unit. Thanks to a single-motor setup, the BMW i7 eDrive50 is capable of churning out a total of
455 hp
 and
650 Nm
 of torque. With power fed to the rear wheels only, this entry-level i7 model can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in
5.5 seconds
.
BMW has not revealed any details regarding the entry-level i7’s battery capacity or its charging figures. However, the German luxury carmaker did claim the third variant of the BMW i7 to feature a highly efficient electric motor and a high-voltage battery that has outstanding energy density.
As a result, the BMW i7 eDrive50 is able to have you chauffeured as far as a minimum of
575 km
 and
611 km
 maximum. Claimed to be capable of offering customers an alternate way to enjoy supreme long-distance comfort, the third variant in the BMW i7 line-up is also said to combine trailblazing innovations and emission-free driving pleasure.
RELATED:
All-new BMW 5 Series & i5 to debut at 8pm today


Audi A8 & A8 L goes on sale in UK, 3.0L PHEV packs 443hp & 700Nm!

The
all-new Audi A8
 will arrive UK shores in early 2018 and here is how the UK-bound luxury sedans will look like – three 3.0-litre V6, a 4.0-litre V8 and a 6.0-litre W12. As promised at launch, all four engine choices will have some form of electrification system strapped on for improved fuel economy.
In the UK, the all-new A8 will be available in standard A8 or long wheelbase A8 L version. As standard, all variants will come with an extensive list of equipment such 10.1-inch touchscreen display, Audi Virtual Cockpit, coloured heads-up display, Audi Connect with MMI Navigation Plus, wireless charging tray among others.

Occupants will find supple Valcona comfort seats with adjustable climate function while the A8 L gets the option for relaxation seat which features four different adjustment options and a footrest for the rear passengers. Rear passengers can also control an array of functions through the smartphone-sized remote control.
The list of onboard driver aids also includes adaptive cruise assist with Stop&Go, front and rear parking sensors supplemented by a rear camera, lane departure warning with emergency assist, Audi Pre-sense collision avoidance and mitigation system, Audi AI traffic jam pilot, Audi AI garage pilot and Audi AI parking pilot.
At launch, the UK-specification A8 will be available with a 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel TDI with
282 hp
 and a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 TFSI with
335 hp
. The 4.0-litre V8 turbodiesel TDI with
429 hp
 and 6.0-litre W12 with
577 hp
 will be available at a later date. As reported earlier,
all variants of the A8 will feature some form of electrification
 and Audi has held onto their word.
For the environmentally friendly
taukes
, a plug-in hybrid e-Tron option will be announced at an even later date. The e-Tron PHEV features a 3.0-litre TFSI married to an electric motor to give a combined output of
443 hp
 and
700 Nm
 of twisting force. The battery pack is capable of giving the A8 L
50 km
 of electric driving range.
Prices for the Audi A8 starts from £69,100 (RM387k) before options. Audi Malaysia had the previous generation A8 and A8 Lon sale hence it is only a matter of time before this beauty hits our shores.
IMAGE GALLERY


This angry little Brabus just makes you wanna pat its bonnet

Brabus has revealed a revised version of their EQ fortwo cabrio called the Ultimate E Facelift where the electric-powered “city supercar” as Brabus calls it has been given more power and some aero tweaks.
The electric motor in the Ultimate E now puts out 92 hp and 180 Nm of torque. The little electric Brabus comes with four different drive modes – Standard, Eco, Sport and Sport +. In its most extreme drive mode, aided with more responsive throttle, the two seater will get from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.9 seconds, with top speed limited to 130 km/h.
Unlike the likes of the Nissan Leaf or the fuel cell-powered Toyota Mirai where both used primarily as urban workhorses, the Brabus is more of a stylish means of popping by the shops for a bag of chips. You see this in the aggressive styling, coupled with the 18-inch wheels but more so when you look at the spec sheet that reads “125 km of electric driving range, depending on driving style”.
The little two-seater is also fitted with Brabus’ custom suspension that’s been tuned to comply with the weight of the vehicle, and to work with the wider, low profile tyres.
Speaking of which, Toyota recently revealed that a German ride-pooling company called Green Tomato Cars with a fleet of the Toyota Mirai
clocked up enough mileage to travel to the Moon and back six times
, and all they emitted was with water vapour. Find out why!
GALLERY


Bentley Batur previews brand’s future EVs… while using a W12 engine

Bentley
 has just unveiled a new limited series two-door grand touring coupe, called the
Bentley Mulliner Batur
. Shown off during the Monterey Car Week, the Batur showcases a new design DNA that will guide the design of the brand’s future range of Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs),
with the first due in 2025
.
Limited to only 18 units, all examples have already been reserved, and each one will be designed collaboratively with each customer, guided by Mulliner’s in-house design team. The Batur is named after Lake Batur, a 16km
2
 crater lake in Bali, Indonesia.
Although the Batur previews the design of future battery electric vehicles (BEVs) by Bentley, the Batur is powered by a 6.0-litre W12 engine with “
740+ hp”
 and
1,000 Nm
, paired to an eight-speed DCT. Exhaust fumes escape the engine via a titanium sports exhaust system.
Built on Bentley’s most advanced chassis ever, the Batur is equipped with Speed-tuned air suspension, electric active anti-roll control, eLSD, four-wheel steering, and torque vectoring. Also featured are adaptive air springs with adjustable effective stiffness.
RELATED:
Bentley will launch five EVs in five years starting from 2025
Bentley’s Chairman and Chief Executive, Adrian Hallmark said, “The Batur is a significant car for Bentley. Far more than the heir to the highly successful Bacalar, the Batur showcases the design direction that we’re taking in the future as we develop our range of BEVs. Andi Mindt and his team have reimagined the classic Bentley design cues into a stronger, bolder design that remains both elegant and graceful.
“Beneath the beautiful exterior lies the most powerful engine we’ve ever developed. Our W12 engine is easily the most successful twelve-cylinder automotive engine in history, and as it approaches its retirement to make way for future hybrids and BEVs, we want to mark its accomplishments.
RELATED:
“Driver-focused” Bentley Flying Spur S looks sinister, but gets no extra power
Responsible for the design of the Batur is Bentley’s Director of Design, Andreas Mindt, and his team including Head of Exterior Design, Tobias Suehlmann, and Head of Interior Design, Andrew Hart-Barron.
Andreas Mindt said, “At the very front of the car, we’ve modernised the famous Bentley grille and made it lower and more upright, to give a stronger face and a more dominant stance. This upright elegance brings self-confidence with a luxury stance. The grille is flanked by a new headlight shape and design, an evolution of the design used on Bacalar and maintaining the single large headlight either side. These are matched with all-new tail-lamps at the rear, that sit either side of a deployable spoiler.
“Overall, the form is cleaner and simplified, and we rely more on curvaceous surfaces bisected in the right places to reflect light and dark and bring more muscle to the design.”
RELATED:
Bentley mixes opulence with sportiness on the new Flying Spur Mulliner Blackline
Inside, the Batur offers a two-seat interior space that is designed for ultimate personalisation and long-distance grand touring. Clients can choose from a variety of sustainable materials that include low carbon leather sourced from Scotland, sustainable tannage leather from Italy, and Dinamica (an alternative suede-like sustainable material).
Aside from previewing the future Bentley EVs, the Batur will also act as a tribute to Bentley’s famous W12 engine as the brand moves towards electrification – and what a way to do it; the 6.0-litre W12 engine in the Batur is in its most powerful and most developed iteration. Deliveries of the Batur will begin in mid-2023.
GALLERY


Smart’s adorable-looking #1 SUV shows that it’s serious about EVs

For its entire existence, Smart is pretty much known only for its weird yet charming
ForTwo microcar
. But
that
 Smart is no more, because the brand has undergone a complete reboot with the launch of the all-new Smart #1. And yes,
 that’s really its name
.
The #1 is Smart’s first brand-new product in eight years, and the first since Geely signed a joint venture agreement with Mercedes-Benz to take over 50% of the company. It’ll be built on the former’s modular
Sustainable Electric Architecture (SEA)
– more specifically, the SEA2 designed for smaller vehicles.
In terms of dimensions, the Smart #1 measures in at 4,270 mm long, 1,822 mm wide, and 1,636 mm tall, with a 2,750 mm wheelbase, placing it around the ballpark of other B-segment SUVs, and quite a bit larger than the Smart models of yore – including the ForFour.
At launch, the #1 will be offered with only a single motor set-up on the rear axle, providing
272 hp (200 kW)
 and
343 Nm
 of torque. Electric power is provided by a 66 kWh battery pack underneath the floor, which gives the compact SUV a driving range of 420-440 km based on the WLTP scale.
For charging, the Smart #1 supports regular AC power of up to 22 kW, which can fill the battery from 10% to 80% in under three hours. DC fast charging is also supported at speeds of up to 150 kW, taking less than 30 minutes for the same amount of charge.
Smart did not provide any performance figures for the #1, although it’s claimed to have a top speed of 180 km/h. An all-wheel drive model will also be offered at some point in the future, although no further specifications were disclosed.
In terms of appearance, the production-ready Smart #1 looks virtually unchanged from its original concept that was
first unveiled last year
, characterised by its smooth and round pebble-like exterior silhouette. Other exterior highlights include the full-width head- and taillights, with its new twin Y-shaped light signature, floating “halo” roof, as well as aerodynamic-focused 19-inch alloys.
Don’t let its adorable appearance fool you, however, because the smooth curves are actually there for a purpose. Combined with the shut-off grille and concealed door handles, the Smart #1 actually manages a drag coefficient of just 0.29 Cd, improving its aerodynamic efficiency to ultimately provide increased driving range.
Inside, the Smart #1 again retains much of the concept’s interior design, although with a more conventional five-seater set-up instead of four individual chairs. Smart’s press release highlights on its “human-centric” technology within the #1’s cabin, where even the 12.8-inch floating infotainment display can be fully customised according to the driver’s wishes.
There’s even a fox avatar (with more characters to come in the future) that functions as the system’s voice assistant “intelligent companion”, and the entire system is also linked to a smartphone app to provide drivers with more functionality and real-time data when away from the car.
The fox “intelligent companion” avatar.
According to
Autocar UK
, the infotainment system is not based on Mercedes-Benz’ MBUX system, nor completely lifted from Geely’s other models, but rather built specifically for Smart to accommodate the specific needs and tendencies of European buyers.
Other interior highlights include a 9.2-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10-inch head-up display, a panoramic glass roof, 13-speaker Beats sound system, and over-the-air (OTA) software update capabilities that can supposedly update more than 75% of all ECUs within the car.
At launch, the Smart #1 will be offered in a 1,000-units only Launch Edition (pictured here in white), with a unique chequered-design wheels, unique white leather upholstery, as well as the gold exterior and interior trims from the original Concept #1.
Intrigued? Well for those of us in Malaysia, the good news is that the Smart #1 will also be imported and sold here in our country, thanks to a recent
Memorandum of Agreement
signed between Smart and by our national carmaker’s distribution arm, Proton Edar – so ready your chequebooks!
GALLERY


Bentley presents the most powerful, performance-oriented Bentayga

Bentley Motors has just revealed the Bentagya Speed; the most powerful and performance-oriented Bentayga to date.
It’s also dubbed the world’s fastest production SUV with
635 hp
 from its 6.0-litre W12 engine.
The
W12 Bentayga we tested last year
.
Not sure what they’re on about because its still slower from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds compared to the
 Lamborghini Urus
 which accomplishes the same in just 3.6 seconds.
In terms of top speed, it’s only 1 km/h quicker than the Urus (on paper) at 306 km/h.
Compared to the one we tested last year
, the Bentayga Speed gets a
27 hp
increase, with similar torque figures at
900 Nm
. As a result, it is 0.2 seconds faster than the outgoing W12 model.
Specific to the Speed model, the Sport Mode has been recalibrated for even better response from the W12 engine and 8-speed automatic gearbox.
This complements the more throaty exhaust notes and firmer suspension tune.
On the outside, the Bentayga is vilified with dark-tint headlights, body-coloured front and rear splitters, body-coloured side skirts and a rear spoiler.
Adding even more aggression to the Bentayga’s extravagant design are dark-tint radiator and bumper grilles, unique thousand-spoke 22-inch wheels and Speed signature badging.
The Bentayga Speed’s ceramic brakes are the largest and most powerful fitted to a Bentley; capable of withstanding temperatures up to 1,000 °C with immense braking force. They are also lighter by 20 kg over iron brakes.
Compared to the standard Bentayga, the cabin of the Speed edition gets contrast stitching on the diamond quilting, Speed embroidery on the backrests, Speed treadplate and Alcantara materials – the latter finding its way into a Bentayga for the first time.
IMAGE GALLERY


2016 Lotus Elise Cup 250 unveiled, lighter and quicker than before!

Lotus has added yet another variant to their popular
Elise
 line by revealing the Elise Cup 250. This variant pushes Colin Chapman’s
“adding lightness”
 to another level, and it also comes with a slight power hike.
The Cup 250 retains the same supercharged
1.8-litre four-cylinder engine
 sourced from Toyota tha produces
246 hp
 at 7,200 rpm and
250 Nm of torque
 that peaks between 3,500 rpm and 5,500 rpm.

The Elise 250 slots above the existing Elise 220 and makes over two dozen ponies more than the latter. As the numbers suggest, the Elise 250 gains an
additional 26 hp
but
sheds 26kg
 off the Elise 220 at the same time! This results in a quicker century sprint, completed in just 3.9 seconds – about 0.3 seconds quicker than the 220. The new Cup 250 also laps the Hethel test track in 1 minute 34 seconds, a whopping
four seconds

faster
 over its predecessor.
Some other improvements include a new aerodynamically optimised bodykit, uprated suspension, better brakes and the new
 Lotus Dynamic Performance Management (DPM)
 system which adds a Sports mode that basically turns the Elise Cup 250 into a track monster. DPM improves  throttle response, lowers traction slip and removes understeer whenever possible.
Speaking about the aero kit, the Cup 250 gets a front splitter, a rear wing and an oversized rear diffuser.
Weight saving remains Lotus’ ethos, thus the Cup 250 receives a lighter battery pack, carbon fibre seats and ultra-lightweight rims. Lotus is also offering an optional Carbon Aero pack which reduces the weight of the aero kits to a further 10kg. The carbon fibre seats on the other hand, gets clad in Alcantara, but leather too can be specified.
Only
200 units
 of these fine roadsters will ever be made in Hethel, and it will be available in April with a starting price of
 £45,600
(
approx RM272,00.00
+). We have a feeling a handful of them will be making their way here, but pricing will not be cheap for sure.
IMAGE GALLERY


Bentley introduces the world’s first super-fast in-car WiFi

The system is called “Advanced Connectivity” and can be accessed via a dedicated Bentley app. It’s not only quick, it’s supposedly reliable and highly secure as well.
Partnering with global communications company, Viasat, who’s responsible in managing 14 million WiFi hotspots, the Bentley Advanced Connectivity is a multi-channel virtual private network (VPN) which can hold up to three mobile network operators on a single signal.
The system is placed discreetly inside the Bentley’s boot lid, with the router connected to the on-board DC power supply.
The WiFi router links to a broadband connected hub located at a static site. This hub then links the Bentley system to the broadband connection at the host site, for unparalleled connectivity, reliability and security.
When using the Bentley Advanced Connectivity WiFi system while traveling at speeds of 110 km/h, a passenger is able to access a number of simultaneous entertainment and business applications – including high-definition video streaming across multiple devices – with uninterrupted service quality.
This new super-fast WiFi service is available in all Bentley models in 2019.
IMAGE GALLERY


Selected Mitsubishi service centres to resume operation during MCO

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM), the official distributor of Mitsubishi vehicles in Malaysia, has announced that it will resume operations at selected authorised Mitsubishi service centres in the country starting today.
The announcement comes after several of its authorised service centres have received approval from the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) to operate during phase four of the
Movement Control Order (MCO)
.
The service centres will be operating on an
appointment-only basis
. Customers in need of vehicle maintenance and service are urged to contact their nearest Mitsubishi service centre to book an appointment.
In order ensure the health and safety of its customers and staff, all Mitsubishi service centres will be observing strict health and safety measures in accordance to the social distancing guidelines.
MMM will be practicing contactless car acceptance for all service appointments, and customers will not be allowed to wait at the premises – only pick-up and drop-off will be allowed. Temperature checks will be mandated for all customers and staff, along with the use of masks.
Additionally, hand sanitisers will be placed at the entrance of the service centres to be used for all customers. All vehicles will also be sanitised before handing over back to the customers.
MMM reassures that it will continue to honour all warranty matters affected by the MCO. All free service maintenance will be offered a 90-day grace period from the expiry date, or within 2,500 km from the mileage due.
For emergency assistance or urgent enquiries, customers can contact the Mitsubishi Assist 24Hours call centre at
1800-88-2166
 or
03-2161-0246
. Alternatively, customers can email MMM at
[email protected]
.


G30 BMW 5 Series 520i Luxury & 530e M Sport launched, RM328k to RM338k

BMW Group Malaysia has just expanded their G30 BMW 5 Series portfolio in Malaysia with the new BMW 520i Luxury and BMW 530e M Sport variants, adding a new entry-level variant and sportier trim for the electrified business athlete.
The new 520i Luxury is priced exactly the same as the
530e Sport
 at RM328,800 (OTR without insurance) while the 530e M Sport carries an RM10k premium at RM338,800 also on-the-road without insurance. The 520i Luxury is particularly attractive for buyers who are not ready for a high-voltage plug-in hybrid yet unwilling to stretch to the
530i M Sport
’s RM372,800 price tag.
QUICK FACTS
Name
BMW 520i Luxury
BMW 530e Sport
BMW 530e M Sport
BMW 530i M Sport
Engine
1,998cc; 4-cylinder turbo
1,998cc; 4-cylinder turbo eDrive plug-in hybrid
1,998cc; 4-cylinder turbo
Transmission
8-speed automatic
Max Power
184 hp @ 5,000 – 6,500
 rpm
252 hp @ 5,200 – 6,500 rpm
Max Torque
290 Nm @ 1,350 – 4,250 rpm
350 Nm @ 1,450 – 4,800 rpm
Combined Output
N/A
252 hp & 420 Nm
N/A
0 – 100 km/h
7.8 seconds; 235 km/h
6.2 seconds; 235 km/h
6.2 seconds; 250 km/h
Price (OTR without insurance)
RM328,800
RM328,800
RM338,800
RM372,800
On the outside, the
520i
 wears the Luxury exterior package complemented with the adaptive LED headlamps with LED foglamps, style 684 18-inch V-spoke alloy wheels, LED taillamps and dual chrome exhaust outlets.
Inside, the new entry-level 5 Series is furnished with Black Dakota leather upholstery, Pearl Chrome interior trim, Sports leather steering wheel (without paddle shifters), 12.3-inch LCD instrument cluster, 10.25-inch BMW Navigation System Professional touchscreen infotainment system, 12-speakers, powered front Sport seats with memory function for driver, powered adjustable steering column, 11-colour ambient lighting and powered rear sun blinds.
As for the
530e M Sport
, it gets the full M Sport aerodynamic body kit, BMW Individual High-gloss Shadow Line, adaptive LED headlamps, style 664 M 19-inch alloys in black and Blue painted M Sport brake callipers. The cabin is further highlighted with BMW Individual anthracite headliner, illuminated M door sills, M leather steering wheel and M-specific pedals.
Under the hood, the
520i Luxury
 features a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder pushing
184 hp
 and
 290 Nm
 of torque paired to an 8-speed automatic transmission to drive the rear wheels. It goes from 0 to 100 km/h in
7.8 seconds
 while top speed is capped at
235 km/h
.
The 530e M Sport gets the same eDrive plug-in hybrid system that combines a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with
184 hp
/
290 Nm
paired to an electric motor with
83 kW
 (113 hp)/
250 Nm
 giving a
combined output
 of
252 hp
 and
420 Nm
 of grunt. With the 8-speed automatic, the 530e M Sport makes the century sprint in
6.2 seconds
 with a top speed of
235 km/h
. Both models also come with the
Adaptive suspension
 as standard.
On the safety front, only the 530e M Sport comes with
Driving Assistant
with Lane Departure Warning, Lane Change Warning and front collision warning with brake intervention, crossing traffic warning rear and rear collision prevention like the 530i M Sport. The 520i Luxury makes do with seven airbags, Parking Assistant, rear-view camera and the usual electronics present on a BMW.
The 520i Luxury is available
Black Sapphire, Glacier Silver, Imperial Blue or Alpine White, paired exclusively
to Black Leather Dakota interior while the 530e M Sport can be had in Black
Sapphire or Sophisto Grey, paired with either the Black or Night Blue Leather Dakota
interior; or in Bluestone or Alpine White paired with Black Leather Dakota interior.
Every purchase of a new BMW 5 Series comes with 5-Years Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Scheduled Service, 2-Year/24-Month Tyre Warranty Programme, BMW Roadside Assistance and Accident Hotline, BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile App and BMW White Card membership.
IMAGE GALLERY
BMW 530e M Sport
BMW 520i Luxury


F30 BMW 3 Series M Sport Edition Shadow introduced for Japan

The F30 BMW 3 Series is nearing its lifecycle but that does not stop BMW Japan to spice up the premium compact sedan with the M Sport Edition Shadow. The newly added trim line is available on all variants and body styles of the 3 Series on sale in Japan.
Building upon the regular M Sport, which gets lowered suspension, M Sport body kit and 18-inch alloys, the M Sport Edition Shadow further add
 blacked out kidney grilles and window trims
, smoked headlamps and taillamps as well as
19-inch five twin-spoke M lightweight alloy wheels
 finished in Orbit Grey. Sunset Orange has also been added to the colour palette.
Inside, the M Sport Edition Shadow can be differentiated from a regular M Sport through its
new coloured multi-info display instrument cluster
, black Dakota leather seats with contrast blue stitching and stainless-steel sports pedal.
Prices for the F30 BMW 3 Series M Sport Edition Shadow starts at ¥5,330,000 (RM191k) for the 318i to ¥6,800,000 (RM245k) for the 330e. Fancy having BMW Malaysia to offer something similar to our local market?
IMAGE GALLERY


Would you have the Porsche 718 T with a 6-speed manual or PDK?

Porsche is once again
embracing driving purity
 with the introduction of the Porsche 718 T, essentially a back to basic Boxster and Cayman that throws out all the
non-essentials
for the purest Porsche driving experience.
Traditionally, “T” stands for “Touring” which follows the same recipe of the original 1968 911 T – lightweight, manual gearbox and raw driving engagement. The 718 T follows the same philosophy by removing the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) infotainment system (can be ordered as a no-cost option), installed lightweight sport seats and reduced insulation to save precious kilograms.
However, the cabin of both the Boxster and Cayman are still luxuriously finished with fabric and leather combination seats, 360-millimetre GT sports steering wheel with Mode switch (no multifunctional controls), door entry strips, “Boxster T” or “Cayman T” embroidery and gloss black interior trims.
On the exterior front, the 718 T can be identified through its Agate Grey side mirror caps, “718 Boxster T” or “718 Cayman T” side decal, “T” model designation at the rear as well as 20-inch Titanium Grey alloy wheels. Buyers can choose from Black, Indian Red, Racing Yellow, White, Carrara White, Deep Black and GT Silver metallic colours as well as Lava Orange and Miami Blue as special colours. Adjusted for specification and equipment, Porsche says the 718 T is five to 10 per cent cheaper than a similarly equipped Boxster or Cayman.
The 718 T is based on the basic 718 which comes equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged flat-four engine pushing out
300 hp
 and
380 Nm
 of twist. Drive is channelled to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual transmission as standard while a seven-speed dual-clutch PDK box can be ordered as an option.
As standard, the 718 T is equipped with the Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) Sports chassis that drop the ride height by 20 mm, Sport Chrono Package and Sports Exhaust as standard. All these combined allows the manual-equipped 718 T to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in
5.1 seconds
 while the PDK with Launch Control and Sport Response button cut the time to
4.7 seconds
. Regardless of transmission and body style choice, the 718 T models will still hit a top speed of
 275 km/h
.
IMAGE GALLERY
Porsche 718 T


GST: Marginal price revision for Isuzu D-Max, most variants are cheaper

For those who’ve been eyeing to get themselves a
D-Max
 after April 1st, you’d be pleased to know that most of the variants are cheaper now, ranging from
RM1.74
 (yes that much) to
RM1,987.56
. Only two variants in the entire range cost more, but you’re only looking to fork out an additional RM25.36 tops.
Model
Variant
Price before GST
Price after GST
Difference
D-Max 2.5L
Single Cab 4×2 MT
RM 60,411.00
RM 60,360.10
RM 50.90
Single Cab 4×4 MT
RM 72,331.20
RM 72,156.20
RM 175.00
2.5L 4×2 MT
RM 69,799.60
RM 69,794.56
RM 5.04
2.5L 4×2 MT Hi-Ride
RM 79,899.60
RM 77,912.04
RM 1,987.56
2.5L 4×4 MT-L
RM 85,499.60
RM 85,524.96
RM

-25.36
2.5L 4×4 MT
RM 94,619.60
RM 94,624.00
RM 4.40
2.5L 4×4 AT
RM 100,689.60
RM 100,672.36
RM 17.24
DIABLO 2.5L 4×4 AT
RM 110,189.60
RM 110,142.40
RM 47.20
D-Max 3.0L
V-Cross 3.0L MT
RM 101,343.90
RM 101,333.76
RM 10.14
V-Cross 3.0L AT
RM 107,459.90
RM 107,435.12
RM 24.78
V-Cross SAFARI 3.0L AT
RM 118,485.90
RM 118,497.28
RM

-11.38
DIABLO 3.0L 4×4 AT
RM 116,959.90
RM 116,958.16
RM 1.74
As per the table above, the biggest dip in price reduction goes to the
2.5L 4×2 MT Hi-Ride
 variant, now made
RM1,987.56
 cheaper, whereas the most recently introduced variant – the Diablo – gets
RM47.20
 off for the
2.5L
 and
RM1.74
 for the
3.0L
. Looks like the cheer for cheaper cars continues, eh?


MY2018 Honda CR-V recalled over faulty gear push knob button

If you’re a frequent patron of Honda social media groups and forums, you may have noticed a recurring topic from
Honda CR-V
 owners facing issues with their gear push knob button. Now, Honda Malaysia has issued a product update campaign (recall) to replace the potentially faulty part.
The product update campaign
will involve 7,050 units of the CR-V manufactured in 2018 and all replacement
cost will be borne by Honda Malaysia. The replacement stock will be available
in stages and owners will be notified via notification letters.
This product update campaign is a precautionary measure to address the possibility of customers facing difficulty with the MY2018 CR-V transmission lever when shifting from P (park) to other gear positions. Owners can find out whether their vehicles are involved in a product update campaign by calling Honda Toll Free number at 1-800-88-2020 or via Honda Malaysia’s dedicated
website
.


Facelifted Toyota Corolla Altis revealed, set to arrive in 2017

It’s about time the eleventh-generation
Toyota Corolla Altis
 receive a fresh new face, seeing how rapidly its rivals – the
Honda Civic
 and
Ford Focus
 – are progressing. These leaked images gives us a preview of what to expect from the brand’s Keen Look and Under Priority design philosophy.
Right off the bat, we can tell that the current
world’s best-selling compact car
 will receive a redesigned front bumper. The front grille is also updated, keeping in line with other Toyota models. The front headlights look a tad slimmer in shape but really, it’s the design (with integrated LED DRLs) that gives off the illusion. Meanwhile at the back, the changes are minimal at best.
No technical details have been unveiled at this point of time, but expect Toyota to retain the
1.8-litre and 2.0-litre

Dual-VVT-i
engines

that are powering the Corolla Altis models since the facelifted tenth-generation model. There is also a slight possibility of the Corolla benefiting from the Camry’s 6AR-FSE 2.0-litre VVT-iW engine that is used in the
outgoing Camry
. This should at least reduce some damage once the new Civic arrives.
The current Corolla Altis begins from
RM120,900
for the 1.8E variant to
RM146,900
 for the 2.0V variant with additional safety package. Do watch our review video to see how competent the Corolla Altis is.


The 2022 Ford GT Heritage Edition celebrates the first-ever Ford GT from 1964

Similar to the fate of the
Honda / Acura NSX
, the Ford GT will be entering its final year of production next year. Ford is paying homage to its swansong model, as well as its Le Mans-winning heritage, with the 2022 Ford GT Heritage Edition that’s inspired by the 1964 Ford GT Prototype.
“This is the first Ford GT Heritage Edition that goes beyond celebrating race wins; this one goes deep, and honours the earliest of Ford supercar heritage,” said Ford GT program manager, Mike Severson.
He added that the new model is a modern interpretation of the original and easily identifies to which car it’s paying tribute to.
Called the
2022 Ford GT ’64 Prototype Heritage Edition
, the 6th limited-edition supercar is painted with Wimbledon White and highlighted by Antimatter Blue graphics and finished with an over-the-roof triple racing stripe. Exposed carbon fibre components are prominent, together with carbon fibre front splitter, side sills, mirror stalks, engine louvres and rear diffuser finished in gloss.
The Brembo brake calipers are finished in silver with black graphics, hidden beneath Ford GT’s unique 20-inch blue-painted carbon fibre wheels and black lug nuts further modernise the aesthetics.
Inside, the 2022 Ford GT ’64 Prototype Heritage Edition sees wrapped surfaces such as the passenger section of the dashboard and two seats in Lightspeed Blue Alcantara. With the construction of the vehicle in carbon fibre, certain sections are left unpainted and just lacquered with a matte finish.
Check out the unique displays on the Ford GT 10-inch instrument cluster. Information is certainly done right!
There is no mention of the powertrain, thus it is assumed to continue with the same 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine with outputs of
647 hp
 and
746 Nm
 of torque. All that power goes to the rear wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. 0-100 km/h is done in
3.0 seconds
, onward to a top speed of
348 km/h
.
Since the Ford GT project started in 2016, Ford has made tribute Ford GT models such as the 1966 Daytona-winning
No. 98
 race car driven by Ken Milles introduced last year as well as two painted in Gulf liveries honouring the Le Mans wins of 1968 and 1969.
This is probably the surprise of 2021! Find out more about THE retro tribute from Radford with this lovely Lotus Type 62/2
.
In its short FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) motorsports campaign from 2016 to 2019, the Ford GT LM GTE finished first in the GTE class in the 2016 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race. The racing car then picked up another 18 victories before it was retired from the global endurance series in 2019.
In its home market of North America, the 2022 Ford GT ’64 Prototype Heritage Edition does not have an announced price available, but news portals are quick to point out that these bespoke hand-built machines made by Multimatic Niche Vehicles in Canada cost a whopping
US$500,000
 (over RM2.1 million) with production only beginning next year.
Even with such a price tag, Ford has no issue selling them, where 175 units were reportedly sold in the US alone last year. Demand has been more than overwhelming, which made Ford and Multimatic agree to
extend the production
 of the Ford GT for another two years to 2022 to meet customers requests.
GALLERY