BMW got the “Gran Coupe” design just right with the 8-series

Bet you wouldn’t say the same about the BMW 4-series Gran Coupe but looking at the pictures of the 8-series version of a “coupe with four doors”, you’d find yourself struggling to argue otherwise.
When stretching out a body that’s purposefully designed to be a coupe, often times car brands miss the mark by a significant margin.

Take the Panamera for example, look how long it took Porsche to get it right and even out the proportions and arguably, they’ve nailed it with the
Sport Turismo
which essentially looks like an elongated hatch and not a stretched 911 – it just doesn’t work.
Most of what you see on the Gran Coupe in terms of features and specifications are essentially offered in the
8-series Coupe
 and
Convertible
 but there are notable differences with the four-door model.
The roofline for one, is the biggest difference as the Gran Coupe is
taller by 61 mm
 compared to the Coupe to offer better headroom both in the front and at the back.
As such, the rear windscreen is also more upright which also helped with luggage space. To accommodate the rear doors, the Gran Coupe is
231 mm longer in length
 and
 201 mm longer in wheelbase
compared to the Coupe.
Even the Hoffmeister kink is almost vertical to accommodate the increased size of the C-pillar. The wide hips of the Coupe has been retained by widening the rear track by 28 mm, the widest on any production BMW. This also
increased the car’s width by 30 mm
.
Due to the added dimensions, BMW had to make a few weight-saving measures to compensate for the added weight from the longer body and extra doors.
While aluminium components are still the main ingredient, the use of a plastic boot lid, magnesium dashboard support and carbon fibre centre tunnel means the Gran Coupe
only weighs 70 kg more than the coupe
.
As for the most important detail, the Gran Coupe features a new entry-level petrol variant, the 840i, where
340 hp
 and
500 Nm
 is extracted from a 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-six that’s paired to an 8-speed automatic gearbox to drive the rear wheels.
0 to 100 km/h? Done in 5.2 seconds but if you opt for the all-wheel drive option, expect at least 0.3 seconds shaved off.
IMAGE GALLERY


Want a closer look at the new Mk8 Volkswagen Golf GTI and R-Line? Head to 1 Utama!

If you’re looking to head to a mall for a lunch break, or for dinner after work, try making the 1 Utama Shopping Centre the destination. Aside from the obvious abundance there, there’s also an array of new Volkswagen Golfs on display there.
Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia has kicked off the Volkswagen Tour 2022 – with the first roadshow at 1 Utama Shopping Centre – between
23rd to the 27th of February 2022
, between 10 am to 10 pm at the Centre Court, Ground Floor (Old Wing). Test drives are available for selected models.
R-Line
Elegance
Other vehicles on display include the Arteon R-Line 4MOTION, the recently
updated Passat R-Line
 and
Passat Elegance
. The Arteon has recently seen an increase in price, up RM9k to RM258k, but with no changes to its specifications.
As for the Passat range, the Elegance now comes with a different wheel design, and fresh new “button-less” air-con control panel just like the Golf Mk 8 and Arteon. The Passat R-Line on the other hand, received a performance upgrade; bumping it to 220 hp and 250 Nm, a 30 hp and 30 Nm increase.
As for the main event of the roadshow, there will be two variants of the all-new Golf Mk8 on display – the R-Line and GTI. The R-Line is expected to be priced between RM155k to RM165k, while the Golf GTI starts from RM211k.
The Golf R-Line gets a 1.4-litre TSI engine, paired to an 8-speed automatic gearbox, while the more powerful GTI is powered by the 4th generation EA888 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, paired to a 7-speed dual-clutch. The GTI is armed with 245 hp and 370 Nm, while the R-Line still pushes out a respectable 150 hp and 250 Nm.


Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid 1.8 to start from est. RM137,000

UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has just fully unveiled the second most important aspect of its latest hybrid model- the price! While the company just teased the
LED headlamp
 of the SUV last week, UMWT is also finally confirming that the new self-charging hybrid model is indeed the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid, and priced at an
estimated RM137,000
.

Interested customers are offered a total of five colours for the
 locally-assembled
Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid, with the Celestite Grey Metallic only exclusively made available for this model.

The Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid is powered by a 98 hp / 142 Nm naturally aspirated 1.8-litre paired to a sophisticated dual-motor-generator setup (72 hp / 163 Nm) with a power-split device (PSD) that functions as an electronic continuously variable transmission (ECVT).

The combined system output is
122 hp
 whilst returning a fuel consumption of 4.3 litres per 100 km or 23.3 km/L (ECE R101). The powertrain first appeared in the fourth-generation Toyota Prius.

The nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) traction battery is now placed under the rear seats for maximum luggage space as well as improved handling. Coupled with the compact torsion beam rear axle, the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid has a very spacious luggage area of at least 440 litres, which is class-leading.

UMWT is also offering an eight-year unlimited mileage warranty on the hybrid electrical components, which includes the battery, inverter and power management control unit. Customers can even extend it for an additional two years for an estimated RM2,950.

The increase in feature level is scarce, with UMWT listing just the digital Optitron instrument cluster measuring seven inches, a similar item that is found in the
Toyota Corolla Altis 1.8G
.

Apart from the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid registry for booking, UMWT has also again
revised the pricing
 of the Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8G and 1.8V. This is perhaps a reflection that the Bukit Raja plant in Klang has begun the local assembly (CKD), as the file name of the price list is simply named as ‘Corolla Cross CKD’.

With the new pricing information, the Toyota Corolla Cross is now priced at
RM123,000
 (less RM1,000) and
RM129,000
 (less RM266) for the 1.8G and 1.8V respectively, both inclusive of the sales tax exemption that has just been
extended to June 2022
.

For the full breakdown of the differences between the two variants, check out our Facts and Figures launch coverage, linked
here
. In case you are curious about how it drives, we’ve also previously published a quick driving impressions review, which you can find
here
.


Looking for a used Mazda? Check out the new Mazda Anshin website by Bermaz Motor!

Bermaz Motor
 has officially launched its
Mazda Anshin website
, a one-stop platform for customers to sell or buy their Mazda vehicles in a simple, secured, and convenient way.
The website offers Mazda’s pre-owned vehicles (company demo vehicles) and Mazda customers’ used vehicles that have undergone strict inspection and are certified by Mazda.
Every Mazda pre-owned and used vehicle is subject to a 111-point inspection at selected authorised Mazda Service Centres, in Glenmarie and Petaling Jaya. This is to ensure that the vehicles are in good order before it’s put up for sale on the Mazda Anshin website.
The inspections are performed by Mazda certified technicians, taking approximately an hour with a minimal fee of RM200. Once that’s done, the owner will receive a Mazda Anshin Certified Valuation and recommended selling price.
All pre-owned or used vehicles must comply with these requirements:
Has no major accident damages
Has no frame damages
Has not been through a flood
All Mazda pre-owned vehicles come with the remaining manufacturer’s warranty and free service from the vehicle’s first registered date. For more information, please the Mazda Anshin hotline at
603-76273308
.
Customers can physically view and test drive the pre-owned vehicles at these Mazda Anshin centres:
Mazda Pre-owned Centre (Glenmarie)
No. 38 & 40, Jalan U1/F ,Accentra Glenmarie
40150 Shah Alam, Selangor
Tel: 603-55698080
Mazda Pre-owned Centre (Kajang)
Lot 1872, Block C&D, Jalan Semenyih
43300 Kajang, Selangor
Tel: 603-87375563


Mercedes-Benz S-Class facelift teased, new headlamp design that you can finally tell apart from a C-Class!

In a rather surprising move, Mercedes-Benz decided to tease the W222 S-Class facelift at the 2017 New York International Auto Show and schedule its global premier at the Auto Shanghai expo happening from 21 April to 28 April. Based on the teaser, we know that the S-Class facelift will feature new engine options, semi-autonomous driving technology and finally, a new headlamp design to distinguish itself from its smaller siblings.
If the only thing that is stopping you from getting an S-Class is the single bar LED daytime running lights that looks too similar to the C-Class, well you’re in luck. The facelift will bring about a three-bar LED daytime running lights design with a new Multibeam LED headlamps and Ultra Range High Beam function. No more mistaking the S-Class for a
C-Class
 now.
Mercedes-Benz will also be introducing new engine options to the S-Class facelift including in-line six-cylinder petrol and diesel, bi-turbo V8 and a plug-in hybrid with a pure electric range of 50 km. Expect Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) to allow its customers to access the full range of engine options for their beloved limo.
Perhaps the most significant update to the S-Class is the updated Intelligent Drive system that allows for semi-autonomous driving. The new system upgrades the
Distronic Active Proximity Control
 and
Active Steer Assist
 to allow for an even more comfortable driving support. Thanks to enhanced cameras and radar systems, the S-Class is able to have a better view of the surrounding traffic. The system now uses map and navigation data to calculate driving behaviour.
Among the systems that will be featured on the new Driving Assistance package includes but not limited to –
Distronic Active Proximity Assist
, adjusts the vehicle speed based on driving route;
Active Steer Assist
, helps correct erratic steering behaviour;
Active Lane Change Assist
, initiates lane change with a tap of the indicator within the next 10 seconds;
Active Emergency Stop Assist
, applies brakes when an imminent collision is detected; Following vehicles in a tailback, automatically accelerate and brakes in stop and go traffic;
Traffic Sign Assist
, displays traffic signs on the instrument cluster when a road sign is detected and
Remote Parking Assist
, enables the driver to manoeuvre the vehicle into tight spaces remotely via a smartphone app.
Market launch of the S-Class facelift will commence in July with the European market getting first dibs. Considering that the S-Class is a popular model in our market and relentless product offensive MBM is at, we may very well see this updated limo on our shores shortly after the European market introduction. For now, stay tuned to our website
AutoBuzz.my
for the S-Class facelift!
IMAGE GALLERY


Honda Civic Type R used as Pace Car in Indy Car Series

Honda USA
 has unveiled the 2020 Honda Civic Type R Pace Car which will be used to lead a pack of angry race cars in the Indycar Series. This is the latest in a series of Honda Pace Cars used for Indy car races since 2006.
Modifications to the Civic Type R Pace Car include a Honda Performance Development [HPD] brake package, including competition rotors, racing pads and stainless steel brake lines. On the inside, the Civic Type R has been fitted with a safety roll cage and four-point racing harnesses.

The Honda Civic Type R Pace Car is based on the
latest 2020 iteration
which has been improved in terms of aesthetics, handling, braking, and safety. It now comes with new two-piece brake discs and new brake pads which have been engineered for reduced fade and improved high-speed braking efficiency. It also gets upgraded dampers and stiffer rear bushings.
Inside, the Civic Type R’s cabin comes with a new Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, a new shifter with a redesigned gear knob and shorter shifts. The visceral effect from the Civic’s performance has also been amplified with the new
Active Sound Control
, which modifies interior sound in relation to different drive modes.
Not too long ago, Honda also revealed a
limited edition version of the updated Civic Type R
, which has been lightened by almost 50 kg. Aside from the removal of the rear wipers, tonneau cover and rear heater ducts, the omission of sound dampening materials alone reduced more than 12 kg of the car’s overall weight. To further reduce unsprung weight,
lightweight forged aluminium BBS wheels
 have been used.
As a result, the limited edition Civic Type R recently
clocked the fastest time for a front-wheel driven car around the Suzuka Circuit
 – eclipsing the record previously held by the Megane RS Trophy-R by a full second.
GALLERY
Honda Unveils 2020 Civic Type R Pace Car


RON95 and RON97 down by 10 sen, Diesel down by 15 sen for September

Another month goes by, so what’s the fuel price for September 2015? Effective midnight, the price for diesel will be pegged at RM1.80 per litre while RON95 and RON97 petrol are priced at RM1.95 and RM2.35 respectively.
That’s further reduction from August for both petrol (down 10 sen) and diesel (down 15 sen). The current world crude oil price is at $ 44.35 per barrel.


The Toyota GR Yaris ‘Rallye Edition’ is asking a 36% premium over the regular. What’s so special?

Toyota Australia was one of the first markets in the world to begin order-taking of the exhilarating GR Yaris hot-hatch back in September 2020. The first 1,000 units of the regular GR Yaris was snapped up within a week, thanks to an incredibly attractive price of
AU$39,950
 (RM120,000) which equated to a savings of nearly AU$10,000.
Demand for pocket rocket has not waned, as Toyota Australia has now officially launched the Australia-special
GR Yaris Rallye Edition
, which sees an on-the-road price tag of
AU$54,500
 (RM172,000).
For context, a
MINI JCW 3-door
 hatch retails for about AU$59,400, while in Malaysia, it is priced from RM295,000.
So, what does the extra
AU$14,500
 (or AU$5,000 if one placed the booking today, as the current pricing for the regular GR Yaris is now AU$49,500) gets you in the Rallye Edition? Similar to the
Performance Pack
 variant offered by UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) priced at
RM286,896
, the GR Yaris Rallye replaces the Dunlop SP Sport Maxx tyres to higher grip
Michelin Pilot Sport 4S
 tyres paired with lightweight
BBS forged

rims
, the addition of Torsen limited-slip differential (
LSD
) on both axles, as well as circuit driving-oriented
suspension tuning
.
Cooling ducts are also punched into the front bumper to cool the disc brakes and
red-painted calipers
, a feature unique only to the GR Yaris Rallye / Performance Pack edition. The locally-requested black-painted ‘
RALLYE
’ badge is stucked on the tailgate, together with a uniquely numbered GR Yaris Rallye plaque placed at the centre console.
Buyers can only select the Platinum white pearl as their exterior paintwork with the carbon fibre roof left untouched.
Inside, the Rallye comes with an enhanced JBL 8-speaker audio system. No changes are made to the GR-branded front bucket seats, wrapped perforated Ultrasuede and highlighted by red stitching.
As for the powertrain, the Rallye edition maintains the same
272 hp / 370 Nm
 1.6-litre single-scroll turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine as the regular GR Yaris, propelling the hot-hatch from standstill to 100km/h in
5.2 seconds
. These are higher outputs than the GR Yaris destined for Malaysia, with outputs of 261 hp / 360 Nm that slightly delays the century sprint time by 0.3 seconds to 5.5 seconds.
Also maintained from the regular GR Yaris is the GR-Four all-wheel drive system, with Normal, Sport and Track modes apportioning the same 60:40, 30:70 and 50:50 front-to-rear torque-split respectively.
While deliveries for Malaysia-bound Toyota GR Yaris Performance Pack have begun, buyers in Australia will need to be more patient, as those who place their order today will only get their cars next year. All good things come to those who wait, perhaps.
In Malaysia, the allocation of over one hundred units of Toyota GR Yaris Performance Pack has
long ended
. Apart from receiving one of the best hot-hatches made in recent memory, the first 65 lucky buyers from UMW Toyota Motor are also treated to a ‘
Early Bird Package
’ that consists of an exclusive helmet bag, a GR Yaris scale model and participation in a GR Yaris Driving Experience in 2021 to learn to enjoy the GR Yaris to the fullest.
In total, only
25,000 units
 of this homologation-special will be made at the GR Factory inside the Motomachi plant in Aichi, Japan. There is also no official breakdown of the split between Performance Pack / Rallye Edition and the regular GR Yaris.
GALLERY


Mercedes-Benz CLS teased again, looks like a very promising show stopper

We are two days away from the global unveiling of the third-generation Mercedes-Benz CLS but the guys at Daimler has taken to YouTube to tease its all-new four-door fastback.
We’ve seen the
E-Class coupe
-like interior of the new CLS on the
first set of teaser photos
 and now Mercedes-Benz has showed off some of its exterior design in a 30 second teaser video. We won’t spoil the fun for you, rundown is after the video.
Like the first teaser photo, we can clearly see that the new CLS will feature a more angular front-end design, with a large Tri-Star badge mounted on the front grille. The headlamps are very similar to the
AMG GT
, slim housing with boomerang shaped daytime running light. Multibeam LED technology is also shown in the teaser video.
On the side, we can clearly see the sloping roof design just starting to taper down after the B-pillars. The front and rear seats appear to have quite a distance between them although it might be Mercedes-Benz playing with our eyes, so take it with a pinch of salt. Gone are slanted taillamps of the previous generation CLS and in its place, are a pair of sleek LED taillamps with a single taillamp graphic.
The all-new Mercedes-Benz CLS will make its official debut on 29 November 2017 and will make its way to the 2017 LA Motor Show. Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) had the
second-generation CLS 400
 on sale for RM599k, expect the third-generation CLS to make its way to our shores sometime in 2018.
IMAGE GALLERY


Audi A4 B9 one of the best cars in the world, says Top Gear

Now this is somewhat surprising. Normally cars that are much more fun to drive gets such seal of approval, but the Top Gear team says “polish matters”, and they weigh just as much as performance.
Top Gear’s road testers said: “With the A4, Audi focused on the stuff most people care about: a quiet, comfy cabin, tech to make your jaw slacken and some genuine ride quality.” The A4 cuts easily through the air with a low drag coefficient of 0.23, and when matched to their new range of economical yet powerful engines (with coasting feature), yields substantially better mileage than the model it replaces.

QUICK FACTS
Name
Audi A4 1.4 TFSI
Audi A4 2.0 TFSI
Audi A4 2.0 TFSI quattro
Engine
1,395cc; inline-4 turbo, DOHC
1,984cc; inline-4 turbo, DOHC
Transmission
7-speed S tronic
Max Power
150 hp @ 5,000 – 6,000 rpm
190 hp @ 4,200 – 6,000 rpm
252 hp @ 5,000 – 6,000 rpm
Max Torque
250 Nm @ 1,500 – 3,500 rpm
320 Nm @ 1,450 – 4,200 rpm
370 Nm @ 1,600 – 4,500 rpm
0 – 100km/h; Top Speed
8.5 seconds; 210 km/h
7.3 seconds; 210 km/h
5.8 seconds; 250 km/h
Price
TBA
RM248,900
TBA
Then there’s the new five-link front and rear suspension, delivering the kind of absorbency and control that “enables a
multitude of miles to be covered seemingly effortlessly, without ruling out incisive handling”. And among the in-car tech highlights that are truly impressive are the Audi Smartphone Interface with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and of course the 12.3-inch wholly digital Audi Virtual Cockpit which never flickers, ever.
Back at home, the A4 B9 is available in three flavours: 1.4 TSI, 2.0 TFSI and 2.0 TFSI quattro. However, only the mid-spec 2.0 TFSI is on sale for now, with the remaining two due for market introduction by Q1 2017. The A4 2.0 TFSI is priced at RM249k before options, and comes with a 4-Year or 120,000km warranty package.

To find out whether or not the A4 B9 is worth your money,
check out our detailed comparisons between the BMW 3-Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Volvo S60 T6 here
.
IMAGE GALLERY

Audi A4 B9 Launch


Bentley Continental GT unveiled in Malaysia, RM1.9 mill before options

Bentley Kuala Lumpur has just unveiled, in the presence of the media and its exclusive group of current Bentley owners in Malaysia, the third generation Continental GT – one that redefines the benchmark of luxury grand touring as an extraordinary statement of luxury, performance and technology.
At the heart of the new Continental GT is an all-new 6.0-litre, twin-turbocharged W12 TSi engine, mated for the first time to a dual-clutch 8-speed transmission.
There are four driving modes available – Comfort, Sport, the “Bentley Mode” that strikes a balance between Sport and Comfort, and a Custom mode.
Output is rated at
635 hp
 with a highly disturbing
 900 Nm
 of torque – undoubtedly sufficient to power all four wheels (AWD) of the 2,244 kg vehicle made up with the combination of steel and aluminium. 0 to 100 km/h takes just
3.7 seconds
, onwards to a top speed of
333 km/h
.
On the outside, the new Continental GT features full LED matrix headlamps and tail lights along with 21-inch wheels in the front and 22-inch pair at the back.
Underneath those exquisite wheels, hides 10-pot brake callipers in the front and four-pot callipers at the back. The body sits on a 48-volt Dynamic Ride System with active continuous damping, supplemented by active anti-roll bars. There are a total of 17 exterior colours, with other wide range of bespoke colours.

On the inside, there are 15 standard interior themes available to go with an exquisite cabin made up of a 10-speaker sound system with an option for a 16-speaker Bang & Olufsen system or an exclusive 18-speaker Naim sound system.
Other interior highlights include a brand new 12.3-inch central touchscreen system, Apple CarPlay compatibility, a 4G telephone system and 60 GB SSD hard drive.

The host of driver assistance systems available in the new Bentley Continental GT include a head-up display, Night Vision, Lane Assist and Traffic Sign Recognition.
Pricing of the all-new Bentley Continental GT is estimated to be at
RM1.9 million before

options
. Bentley Kuala Lumpur has received an overwhelming response for the new Continental GT and as such it will be available for viewing at Bentley Kuala Lumpur, by appointment, on Saturday & Sunday (3 – 4 February 2018), 10 am – 3 pm. Interested parties can ring +60 3 2162 2033 to schedule an appointment.
IMAGE GALLERY


The turbocharged Mazda3 is a 420 Nm sleeper “hot hatch”

Here it is – the l
ong-awaited and highly-rumoured turbocharged Mazda3
 is now finally confirmed, thanks to a virtual launch video released on the Mazda Mexico YouTube channel.
Under the hood, the new forced induction
Mazda3
 will be equipped with a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, good for
228 hp
 and
420 Nm
 of torque. Drive is transferred to
all four wheels
 through a
six-speed automatic transmission
.
 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7hCKznkRJCo
The numbers and drivetrain setup is identical to the turbocharged unit found in the
Mazda CX-5 2.5T
 and
CX-9
, both of which have already been introduced here in Malaysia. Mazda did not reveal the performance figures for the new turbocharged Mazda3 just yet, but expect it to fare quite a bit better than the
CX-5 2.5T
 thanks to its lower weight.
The new turbocharged engine also pushes the Mazda3 well into the hot hatch territory. While the horsepower figure is not exactly impressive compared to its
peers in this arena
, the 420 Nm torque figure is
nearly best-in-class
, beating out even the
 VW Golf R
 (350 Nm),
Hyundai i30 N Performance
 (378 Nm with Overboost function),
 Megane R.S
 (390 Nm), and the
Honda Civic Type R
 (400 Nm).
Based on the details revealed in the Mazda Mexico video, the new turbocharged Mazda3 will sit at the top of the line-up – as expected – fitted with the highest trim levels available in the country. There also doesn’t seem to be any visual enhancements to suggest the updated performance underneath, much like the turbocharged CX-5 which is only differentiated by a red ‘T’ badging at the rear.
Despite its performance, Mazda also doesn’t seem to be bringing back the MPS nameplate for the new turbocharged Mazda3. Mazdaspeed fans will just have to keep waiting, unfortunately – but at least we will have it in spirit, right?


Renault’s R5 Turbo 3E is an electric drift car that you can “buy” but not quite drive

Renault
 is probably the best company when it comes to making wild hot hatches. And this time around, they’ve cranked things up to eleven with the R5 Turbo 3E show car which is a homage to the original Renault 5 Turbo and Turbo 2.
The R5 Turbo 3E is set premiere at the Chantilly Arts & Elegance 2022 contest. It will also be on display on Renault’s stand at the 2022 Paris Motor Show from October 17 to 23.
Looking like the next car for a Hoonigan Gymkhana video, the R5 Turbo 3E is a legit drift car. Oh, it is also fully electric, with two electric motors powering each rear wheel. Combined, both electric motors produce a total of
380 hp
 and
700 Nm
 and the R5 Turbo 3E accelerates from 0-100 km/h in
3.5 seconds
. In the centre of the car is a
42-kWh
 battery pack.
Inspired by games and the digital world, you must press the “Free Play” button on the centre console to start the car. The driving modes include “Turbo” (for drifting), “Track Invader” (for playing), and “Donut” (for 360° spins). Accommodating the generation that records just about everything, the R5 Turbo 3E comes with 10 or so mounting brackets for cameras inside and outside.
RELATED:
The Renault 5 Turbo finally gets its third iteration, courtesy of epic Turbo 3 restomod
On the outside, the R5 presents a “playful” appearance despite its rather sinister and muscular nature. Retaining the same shape for the bonnet, doors, and cockpit as its predecessors, the R5 Turbo 3E’s parts are mainly made of carbon fibre.
Renault Design Director, Gilles Vidal said, “The R5 Turbo 3E combines ultra-tech design and wilfully exuberance with numerous references to the world of car racing and video games. This combination propels the show car into modernity and technology, and it is at the frontier between the real and virtual realms. This pure electric “drifter” demonstrates that electric cars can also be fun with incredible performance!”
RELATED:
Iconic Renault 5 Turbo set to return as an electric car!
Large inlets at the front bumper cool the engine and add downforce. Around the car are LED strips in pink, blue, and yellow which flash when the car drifts, producing a retro videogame vibe. Renault says the R5 Turbo 3E hints at its history by employing a design that is opposite of nostalgic.
One easter egg on the R5 Turbo 3E is the air inlet on the bonnet that pays tribute to the Renault 5 Turbo 2. It houses the opening for the battery charging socket. The square fog lights are reminiscent of the original Renault 5 Turbo and the see-through parts of the body provide windows to admire the show car’s electric mechanism.
RELATED:
All-new Renault Zoe quietly appears on Renault Malaysia website – priced from RM163k
Inside, the R5 Turbo 3E has carbon fibre racing bucket seats, safety harnesses, and a steering wheel that is the result of teamwork with Sabelt. Naturally for a drift car, a large upright handbrake lever dominates the centre console. Ten digital screens sit on the dashboard and the dashboard itself look a lot like Pixel Art and Glitch Art.
Largely inspired by videogames and the digital world, a collection of Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) around the R5 Turbo 3E will be available. Those who own the NFTs will be offered exclusive advantages and rewards. And before you think it only exists in the digital realm, we’d like to remind you that the R5 Turbo 3E is an actual physical show car that will premiere soon.
GALLERY


Video: Volkswagen Golf R Mk7.5, Things You Need To Know

At long last, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has introduced an updated version of the revered
Golf R
. We have seen the popular
1.4 TSI
 and
 GTI
 in detail, now is the turn of the fastest Golf-er out there. Here are Things You Need to Know about the Golf R:
Priced at
RM 295,990
, the Golf R takes performance to another level with
286 hp
 and
380 Nm
 from its 2.0-litre engine paired with a 7-speed DSG transmission. Off the line, the Golf R will take just 5.1 seconds to a 100 km/h before it hits an electronically-limited top speed of 250 km/h. Unlike the GTI, the Golf R gets power funneled to all four corners through the 4MOTION all-wheel drive system with Adaptive Chassis Control also as standard.
The Volkswagen Golf R comes with seven airbags as standard and is covered by VPCM’s five-year factory warranty, five years free roadside assistance and a
3-Years/45,000 km free service package.
IMAGE GALLERY


2023 Honda City facelift debuts in India – mild design changes, updated safety kit

After a
 couple rounds of leaks
 this past two weeks, the 2023 facelift for the

fifth-generation Honda City
 has finally made its debut in India, where it’s offered in four variants, priced between INR1.149 million (approx RM62k) and INR2.039 million (approx. RM110k).
As we’ve seen from the leaks, visual changes here are very minimal. Updates include the new front grille, which was given a slight refresh with a new diamond pin-style honeycomb mesh insert, paired to a slimmer chrome trim above. The bumpers both front and rear have also been redesigned – the latter now featuring a carbon fibre-wrapped diffuser-like element for a more aggressive appearance.
The lip spoiler on the boot lid is new, as are the alloy wheels. Tying up the changes is the new Obsidian Blue Pearl exterior paint colour, joining the existing Radiant Red Metallic, Platinum White Pearl, Golden Brown Metallic, Meteoroid Grey Metallic and Lunar Silver Metallic.
Updates on the interior are also similarly minimal, as most of the dashboard architecture and equipment remains unchanged from before. On the latter, they will ultimately depend on the variant chosen, but highlights here include an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support, an electric sunroof, as well as a wireless charging pad.
The main highlight of the 2023 Honda City facelift comes in the form of an updated feature set for its Honda Sensing advanced driver assistance suite. The new system adds on the low-speed follow function to the adaptive cruise control feature, plus a new lead car departure alert, to go alongside the existing suite of features such as autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, and auto high beam.
Over in India, the 2023 Honda City facelift will be offered in two powertrain options: e:HEV hybrid, and a regular 1.5-litre inline-four petrol mill – the former now also available on a new ‘V’ variant. The B-segment hatchback was previously also offered with a small turbodiesel engine, although that option has been eliminated on the facelift due to the introduction of stricter emissions regulations in the nation.
The e:HEV hybrid system is identical to the one on our Malaysian
Honda City RS
, featuring a 1.5-litre Atkinson-cycle inline-four petrol engine underneath the bonnet, making 98 hp and 127 Nm. However, the wheels are primarily driven by the electric motor only, which is rated at
109 hp
 and
 253 Nm
; the engine primarily functions as a generator for the hybrid battery.
On the pure internal combustion engine front, the returning 1.5-litre i-VTEC inline-four mill still offers the same
121 hp
 and
145 Nm
 of torque, with power sent to the front wheels via either a six-speed manual or CVT gearbox, depending on variant.
READ MORE:
Performance Head-to-Head – Nissan Almera vs Honda City vs Toyota Vios
A


Racing reignites with Round 2 of the Toyota Vios Challenge this weekend, closed-door event

This weekend, Sepang International Circuit is hosting Round 2 of the 2021 Toyota Vios Challenge. The race recommences after a seven-month hiatus as a result of the full lockdown imposed due to the worsening daily COVID-19 cases.
Although we are moving towards a great recovery, unfortunately for fans of racing and their favourite celebrities, the Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival will again be held behind closed doors without the presence of spectators in adherence to strict SOPs.
Similar to
Round 1
 that was held back in March, Round 2 will also use the Sepang North Track for this entire weekend of October 23rd and 24th. With a high average speed combining two long straights and tight corners, plenty of Toyota Vios racing action is guaranteed across all four categories.
Qualifying sessions in the morning will set the pace for Saturday before moving to the first race of Round 2 scheduled at 2:45 P.M. The battle of the
rookies
 from the Gazoo Racing Young Talent Development Program is currently led by Naquib Azlan, who won both races in Round 1, will be in hot pursuit by his fellow rookies who are 14-year old Putera Adam, Jwan Hii, Amer Harris, Mika Hakimi and Troy Eimann.
The rookies will start their 2:45 P.M. Race 1 together with Malaysia’s top motorsport athletes in the Super Sporting category. Big names such as Mark Darwin, Keifli Othman, Syafiq Ali and Brendan Paul Anthony will be pushing their hardest to close the point gap that current championship leader Tengku Djan Ley has built up thanks to his dominance at March’s Race 1. Tengku Djan is also carrying a
success ballast
 of 40 kg entering Race 1 of Round 2.
Fans of local celebrities such as Nabila Razali, Nabil Ahmad, singer-songwriter Talitha Tan as well as Ahirine Ahirudin will get to watch racing action of the Toyota Vios GR Sport machines from 3:35 P.M. The entertainment personalities will then take centre stage from 5:08 P.M. for their respective performances.
The ever-competitive Sporting category which has a field of 19 Toyota Vios Challenge cars will begin racing at 4:25 P.M. The category with varied skill levels has representatives from Toyota dealers, budding racing drivers as well as amateurs competing for top honours.
Sunday will see the second day of racing action, starting with the Race 2 of the Super Sporting and Rookie categories at 1:15 P.M., followed by Sporting category at 2:15 P.M. and the Promotional category ending the weekend and Round 2 from 3:15 P.M. All times as subject to change, as the weather plays a significant effect as seen in March’s first race of the weekend.
All the two days of racing action of Round 2, plus entertainment during the break, will be broadcast live on the Toyota Gazoo Racing Malaysia
Facebook
 and
Youtube
 pages, the Toyota Malaysia
Facebook
 page and the UMW Toyota Motor
website
.
Round 2, Race 1, Saturday
2:45 – Super Sporting and Rookie
3:35 – Promotional
4:25 – Sporting
5:08 – Off the grid performances by TGR Celebrities and friends
Round 2, Race 2, Sunday
1:15 – Super Sporting and Rookie
2:15 – Sporting
3:15 – Promotional
3:52 – Off the grid Finale performances


This New York-style cab is Malaysia’s first EV taxi

A budget EV under RM100k has yet to make a debut in Malaysia. However, local company MySuri Biz Technologies has brought in Malaysia’s supposed first EV taxi – an
MG

5
 wagon. Decorated in New York cab-like livery, the MG 5 wagon taxi is expected to be available for hire starting November 2022.
In Singapore, the MG 5 is already used as a taxi by “Strides Taxi”. Over in Thailand, the MG 5 is known as the MG EP. Powered by a single electric motor, the MG 5/EP comes in two versions – long range and short range.
Photo:
teksiku/Faceboook
The long-range version is equipped with a 61.1-kWh battery that provides a
403-km
 WLTP range. Powered by a single electric motor, the long-range version makes
156 hp
 and
280 Nm
. Charging from 0 to 100% with AC charging takes 10 hours while charging from 10% to 80% takes 40 minutes with DC fast charging.
The short-range version gets a 50.3-kWh battery that provides a range of
316 km
 (WLTP). Although also powered by a single electric motor, the short-range version offers a little more power at
163 hp
 and a little less torque at
260 Nm
. AC charging from 0 to 100% takes 8.5 hours and DC fast charging from 10% to 80% takes 40 minutes. For use as an EV taxi in Malaysia, it would make more sense to use the long-range version of the MG 5/EP.
RELATED:
TNB and Mysuri Biz Tech to supply 1,000 EV taxis for Malaysia
Photo:
teksiku/Facebook
Globally, a facelifted version is available as a long-range version (400 km, WLTP) with a 57-kWh battery and a short-range version (310 km, WLTP) with a 46-kWh battery. The version that MySuri Biz Technologies has in Malaysia is the pre-facelift version, just like the one in Singapore and Thailand.
Teksiku’s official online channels right now are its Facebook and Instagram page. The app was introduced sometime in 2019 but is now not available on the PlayStore (perhaps temporarily). Previously, Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Yaakob announced that Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) in collaboration with Mysuri Biz Technologies Sdn Bhd
will provide 1,000 EV taxis
 to support Malaysia’s Go Green efforts.
Strides EV taxi fleet in Singapore uses the MG 5 EV. Photo:
Strides Taxi/Facebook
Behind “teksiku” is Malaysian digital economy platform provider, alladinmy. Alladinmy itself is an app with a multitude of on-demand services that include car wash, beauty care, home cleaning, and fitness coaching. According to alladinmy’s Facebook page, the Malaysia EV taxi deployment will begin in Klang Valley and Langkawi. While we may have to wait a little longer for a sub-RM100k EV, some of us will at least get to experience riding in an EV taxi soon.


Sweden’s Northvolt begins production of first EV cell

Europe’s big push towards electric vehicles just got one step better, as the key battery plant has finally begun production of lithium-ion battery cells. The first cell of Northvolt Ett represents a milestone that company has been working towards since the ‘gigafactory’ was announced in 2017
The cell is of a prismatic cell format and came off the Ett cell assembly line on December 28th 2021. Commissioning and upscaling of the factory will continue through into 2022, when the first commercial customer deliveries will be made.
“Today is a great milestone for Northvolt which the team has worked very hard to achieve. Of course, this first cell is only the beginning. Over the course of the coming years, we look forward to Northvolt Ett expanding its production capacity greatly to enable the European transition to clean energy,” said CEO and Co-Founder of Northvolt, Peter Carlsson.
The battery cell was developed at Northvolt Labs, Västerås, Sweden, which has been in production since early 2020. In the coming years, production capacity at Northvolt Ett will increase towards 60 GWh per year to fulfil over USD30 billion worth of contracts Northvolt has secured from key customers, including
Volvo Cars
, Volkswagen,
BMW
, Scania and Polestar.
Sourcing battery packs within Europe has been a major objective for the European automakers, as dependency on overseas plants such as CATL of China and LG Chem of South Korea is believed to generate more greenhouse emissions and ultimately be unsustainable. The European Commission’s key goal is to have a domestic battery supply for EVs in the region that is sustainable, competitive and transparent.
Closer to home, LG and Hyundai are building a massive 10 GWh ‘gigafactory’ in Indonesia
Europe’s largest automaker by market share, Volkswagen Group, targets to have
six battery factories
 with a combined energy value of 240 GWh per year by the end of the decade, with Northvolt being one of the key partners.
Nissan meanwhile has teamed up with Envision AESC to build
UK’s first ‘gigafactory’
 that is powered by renewable energy. The initial output of the plant is targeted at 7.5 GWh, with plans to grow to 35 GWh in the future.
Apart from new battery packs, Northvolt in November has also started producing its first lithium-ion battery cell with 100% recycled nickel, manganese and cobalt (MNC), targeted for use smaller electromobility vehicles.


Review: Audi TT 2.0 TFSI, a true-blue Ingolstadt pedigree [+Video]

Jeremy Clarkson specifically said that the
third-generation TT
 is Audi’s best car to date, but his following sentence puts an ironic twist to that claim – that it’s one car he wouldn’t buy. Well, let’s face it. It’s not the first time anyone has heard him utter the words “best car”, but the only reason why he wouldn’t buy the TT is because air stewardesses drive them. We beg to differ, but not before agreeing with Jeremy about the TT being Audi’s best car yet – at least for the moniker.
The TT is a fairly common car in Malaysia. You can hardly go by a day without spotting one on the road. First introduced by Auto Dunia in its Mk1 guise, the TT gradually progressed into a vehicle of desire, most notably for its one-of-a-kind look. Make no mistake, the TT looks like nothing else in the world, save perhaps for the R8. Some years later, the second-generation TT became one of the most sought after models in the grey market, and this was partly contributed by Euromobil’s asking price of RM350k. For a brand new, base model TT!
QUICK FACTS
Name
Audi TT 2.0 TFSI
Engine
1,984cc; direct injection, turbocharged inline-four
Transmission
6-speed dual clutch S tronic
Max Power
230 hp @ 4,500 rpm
Max Torque
370 Nm @ 1,600 – 4,300 rpm
0 to 100 km/h; Top Speed
5.9 seconds; 250 km/h (electronically limited)
Price (OTR without insurance)
RM284,900 (with GST)
With Malaysian operations now helmed by Audi AG themselves, one of the biggest shift in sales strategy is making its cars more appealing, and by that we mean cheaper, thanks to incentives. The Mk3 TT will be yours for just
RM285k
 – nearly RM70,000 cheaper than the model before. That on its own is a bargain, but the tricky bit begins when you roll your eyes over to the optional extras.
EXTERIOR
To rule the Audi TT as a strange car is like saying the fact that the iPhone’s design doesn’t stand out. Some may like it, some may not; but there’s no denying that the iPhone’s looks stand true to its own, and the same can be said for the Audi TT. The third-generation look retains much of its older siblings’ iconic physique. It’s still unmistakably a TT, albeit looking more grown up at every angle.

Gone are the soft curves of the Mk2 as they are replaced (or enhanced, rather) with straight-cut lines that’s even echoed within the headlights and tail lamps. Stylistically, this TT doesn’t differ much from the model it replaces, but the alterations are significantly pronounced nonetheless. Its new look is more of an evolutionary take of the Mk2, and improves on what was lacking. In standard trim, you get
 bi-xenon headlights
 with
 LED daytime running lights
,
18-inch twin-spoke
 cast aluminium hoops with
245/40 profile Continental ContiSportContact 5
 tyres, keyless entry and a retractable rear spoiler.
We dig the TT’s new looks, but can’t scratch away the itch of upgrading the standard headlights to the
LED
 or
 Matrix LED
 sets. Though they cost
 RM5,000 and RM9,000 respectively
, we feel that they complement the TT best as far as looks go. The 18-inch wheels may appeal to some, but the cost of upgrading to a
19-inch wheel
 is just a
RM6,000 option
. Ride quality will surely be affected, but if style is what you seek, then these two options are a must. After all, you can’t possibly be buying a TT for the sole reason of how it drives, right?

INTERIOR
It’s a known fact that Audi makes some of the best interiors both in terms of design and material quality. That ethos extends to the new TT’s cabin, but Audi really, really upped their game here. The TT’s party piece is of course the brand new
12.3-inch liquid crystal screen
 residing behind the steering wheel. Audi calls it the
Audi Virtual Cockpit
, and it doubles as a standard instrument binnacle and a multimedia head unit – the latter typically comes as a standalone display built into the centre dash. This gives the dashboard a clean (but not boring) look, but the bad news is your front passenger will have nothing to tinker with on long drives, save for admiring the air vents, perhaps.
The circular air vents pay tribute to the original TT, but here they are given a sleek modern touch. The design draws inspiration from jet turbine engines, and the air conditioning controls are built right into the centre dials which work flawlessly under all lighting conditions. It’s the little things that set standards apart, isn’t it? There’s more controls in the form of aero-esque switches further down the dash, but toggling them feels much more satisfying than their looks suggest.

The
 three-spoke steering wheel
 is wrapped in fine leather and is perfectly contoured to fit nearly all hand sizes. Shift paddles come as standard too. Both front seats are electrically adjustable with lumbar support and wrapped in a mix of leather and Alcantara. The seats are firm but no less comfortable even after six hours of cruising on the freeway. In championing energy efficiency, cabin lighting is completely powered by LED, including the ambient light (non-customisable). The only bulb-powered lighting source is the glove compartment, presumably because accessing it is only as frequent as servicing the car.
Other creature comforts include push-start button, electronic parking brake, automatic hold assist and Audi MMI touch. There’s one thing to pick on, though, and it’s the rear seats. For the sake of comfort, we don’t recommend ferrying adults at all. But if you absolutely must, be sure that they aren’t claustrophobic – that or adults less than 5 feet tall.

That said, the rear seats will fit children under 12 rather comfortably. So for those who have just started a family, you’ll be worry-free until the facelift comes around, if not longer. For occasions that require a bit more practicality in a coupe, then good news abound because the TT’s rear seats fold completely flat – a plus point its closest rivals (the ageing BMW Z4 and Mercedes-Benz SLK 200) will not be able to match. All told, Ingolstadt’s build-quality extraordinaire really lets its ethos shine through here, and ranks far up the ladder relative to its class.
PERFORMANCE
One of the most compelling trait of this TT is that underneath all that surface sheen, Volkswagen’s aluminium-intensive MQB platform is at play. It’s one of VW Group’s deftest, most talented chassis to date – one that also underpins models like the Audi A3, Volkswagen Golf GTI/R, SEAT Leon and Skoda Octavia. The TT is off to a great start, then. Pop the hood and you’ll find a transversely mounted
2.0-litre TFSI engine
 mated to a
six-speed S tronic
 dual clutch gearbox.
The
turbocharged four-banger
 is respectably powerful, making
230 horsepower
 at 4,500 rpm and a full
 370 Nm
 of torque peaking from 1,600 to to 4,300 rpm. There’s
no quattro wizardry
 here, so drive is sent to the front wheels only. As for numbers, the TT manages the 0 to 100 km/h sprint in a brisk
5.9 seconds
 before maxing out at an
electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h
, as per all German cars. Audi claims that the TT sips just
6.3 litres of fuel per 100km
 (combined cycle), which is not at all blasphemous, but realistically you’ll manage between 7.2 litres to 6.3 litres per 100km.
THE DRIVE
One immediate takeaway when throwing the TT around the bends is that it feels surprisingly nimble and agile albeit with a dash of predictability; something the previous model can only dream of achieving. And it’s all thanks to the MQB platform. This third-gen TT
shaves about 50kg off
 its predecessor’s kerb weight through more extensive use of aluminium in the body construction, whereas the new platform gives an additional 37mm between the front and rear axles which helps improve handling, stability and ride comfort.
We spent as much time tossing the Audi TT on narrow inroads as we did cruising on the freeways, and not once had its dancing moves fetter. Its newfound composure makes everyday driving easier, and to some extent a tad too easy for the more enthusiastic of drivers. But for regular drivers like most of us are, driving the TT can very much instil confidence, and it really packs a Pacquiao of a punch off the line. The turbocharged four-potter is
pleasantly responsive
 at low revs with torque peaking in as early as 1,600 rpm. Turbo lag is well sorted, so that dreaded delay from input to reaction gets reduced to a near instant, making overtaking on highways and gunning out of a corner some two fairly effortless tasks.
Adding more spice to the fun factor is the
Audi Drive Select
which lets you choose between
five driving modes
 – Auto, Comfort, Dynamic, Efficiency and Individual. Things are a little jumbled up in Auto mode as the car is left to deal with a multitude of throttle input. This brings out the worst characteristics of a dual clutch transmission (regardless of what model and make), especially on intracity routes. The Audi TT is better off in the other four driving modes, but flick it into Dynamic and things get much more exciting. There’s no variable damping to stiffen ride, but throttle response, transmission and steering all feel sportier. Exhaust note also becomes more aggressive (separate from the engine note piped into the cabin), particularly when upshifting.
Standard across the TT range is Audi’s
brake regenerative system
. We find it to be a little bit intrusive when drive mode is set to anything other than Dynamic. The car feels dragged when brake force is applied, and this is especially pronounced in Efficiency mode. There’s also a very handy declutching mechanism when adequate brake pressure is applied at rest. This helps prolong the lifespan of the dual clutch gearbox and prevent premature wear caused by constant and irregular transmission meshing. In short, it keeps your gearbox healthy and wallet happy.
I was asked if I could find the TT’s limits, and I’d be lying to you if I say I did. It’s not because the car is extremely capable or talented, but it’s because the TT is exactly the kind of car you wouldn’t trash at whim. Sure, it is a sports car, but it doesn’t command the driver to go full whack while pretending to be a Porsche. It holds its paces really well, and does so rather eloquently without the slightest hint of the Golf DNA despite sharing the same platform. When you’re driving cross country, the cabin’s excellent forward and side visibility makes for an unrivalled panoramic view. Defensive driving also becomes less tiresome because there are no B-pillars in the way.

Combining the TT’s lightweight and modest output figures means there’s no problems getting up to speed, and certainly lives up to its 5.9 second century sprint time. Its turning radius also deserves some praise, as is the flat bottom steering wheel. In short, Audi’s getting really close to perfecting the TT package, and for that reason alone we find the TT to be a truly compelling purchase.
IS THIS CAR FOR YOU?
If you’re all about the looks and less about the hoon, then the TT makes perfect sense. It’s almost a guarantee that people will notice you. But if driving pleasure is what you seek, the TT delivers quite a bit on that front, but nothing can quite be as rewarding as driving a tail-happy rear-wheel-drive vehicle. The Audi TT doesn’t compromise, and the RM285k price tag is quite frankly a bargain if you’re on the market for a well-sewn premium sports coupe.
COMPARISONS
The premium sports coupe segment in Malaysia is off-putting for the most part, simply because the cars are far too expensive to even consider. We’re talking about the Mercedes-Benz SLK 200 and BMW Z4 – both hugely popular sports coupes locally, but most are sourced from parallel importers, a fate also shared with the Mk2 Audi TT. In giving some perspective, the official import SLK 200 will set you back at RM461k a pop (for a 1.8-litre sports car!) and the Z4 at RM360k. The Audi TT 2.0 TFSI undercuts them both by a considerable margin, and it’s even cheaper than the
new MINI John Cooper Works
.
For RM285k, there are other cars worthy of consideration especially at that price point, but we pick the TT’s closest and original rivals to show you just how well Audi Malaysia has positioned the baby R8.
Audi TT 2.0 TFSI
Volkswagen Golf R (Mk7, 3-door)
Mercedes-Benz SLK 200 BlueEFFICIENCY
BMW Z4 sDrive20i
ENGINE
Type
inline-4, turbo, DOHC
inline-4, turbo, DOHC
inline-4, turbo, DOHC
inline-4, twin scroll turbo, DOHC
Displacement
cc
1,984cc
1,984cc
1,796cc
1,997cc
Max Power
hp/rpm
230/4,500
277/5,700
184/5,250
184/5,000
Max Torque
Nm/rpm
370/1,600
380/1,750
270/1,800
270/1,250
STEERING
Type
Electronic Power Steering
Electronic Power Steering
Hydraulic Power Assisted
Electronic Power Steering
DRIVETRAIN
Transmission
6-speed DCT
6-speed DCT
7-speed auto
8-speed auto
SUSPENSION
Front
MacPherson Strut
MacPherson Strut
Multi-link type
MacPherson Strut
Rear
Multi-link type
Multi-link type
Multi-link type
Multi-link type
BRAKES
Front
Ventilated Disc
Ventilated Disc
Ventilated Disc
Ventilated Disc
Rear
Solid Disc
Ventilated Disc
Solid Disc
Ventilated Disc
TYRE & WHEELS
Tyre
245/40 R18
225/40 R18
205/55 R18 front; 225/40 R18 rear
225/45 R17
Wheels
18-inch Alloy
18-inch Cadiz
18-inch Alloy
17-inch Star Spoke Alloy
DIMENSIONS & WEIGHT
Overall Length
mm
4,177mm
4,276mm
4,143mm
4,239mm
Overall Width
mm
1,832mm
1,799mm
1,810mm
1,790mm
Overall Height
mm
1,353mm
1,436mm
1,301mm
1,291mm
Wheelbase
mm
2,505mm
2,630mm
2,430mm
2,496mm
Max Kerb Weight
kg
1,335 kg
1,495 kg
1,470 kg
1,495 kg
Luggage Capacity (VDA)
Litres
305 litres
380 litres
225 litres
310 litres
FUEL
Tank Capacity
Litres
50 litres
55 litres
68 litres
55 litres
Consumption
litres per 100km
6.3 litres
6.9 litres
6.1 litres
6.8 litres
PERFORMANCE
Max Speed
km/h
250 km/h
250 km/h
237 km/h
232 km/h
0 to 100 km/h
sec
5.9s
5.0s
7.0s
6.9s
Price
RM
RM284,900
RM253,060
RM460,888
RM359,800
One clear advantage the TT has over the SLK and Z4 is that it’s new, whereas the other ageing German duo are left to play catchup. The Audi TT’s engine is most advanced here, though its performance figures are eclipsed by the
Golf R
. So it’s not as hardcore as the Golf R, but the TT weighs the least in this round of comparison. Its cabin is in an entirely different league – couple that to the optional accessories and you have a standout performer. Icing on the cake is a 4-year or 120,000km factory warranty. If you want a hotter variant, the
new Audi TTS 2.0 TFSI
 was just introduced days ago for a little over
RM100k more
 than the base TT.
WILL I BUY IT?
Yes, I will, but first I owe you guys, dear readers, a little confession. As much as I am a car guy myself, I’ve always had a soft spot for the four ringed German brand. My old man and I share this unshakable fondness for Continental cars that are easy to drive, comfortable and low on maintenance costs. There were many cars that rang the right bells, but none came as close as the offerings from Ingolstadt. The third-generation TT isn’t quite the quantum leap many have come to expect, but it’s unquestionably
Vorsprung durch Technik
.
IMAGE GALLERY
Audi TT 2.0 TFSI

Audi TTS 2.0 TFSI


Find out how future Jaguar Land Rover vehicles could stop the spread of “Superbugs”

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) claims that its future models could stop the spread of flu thanks to innovative ultraviolet light technology (UV-C) adopted from the medical industry where it has been used for 70 years.
By integrating UV-C into the air conditioning system, JLR believes it could prevent bacteria and viruses, known as pathogens, from surviving in the vehicle’s cabin.
Exposing pathogens to UV-C breaks down its molecular structure and thus neutralising them. UV-C is currently used widely for disinfecting and filtering water alongside sterilising surfaces with wave lengths of light.
“The rise of superbugs and allergens is one of the largest threats we face as a species today. Investment in immunology is vital in ensuring that our immune systems stay ahead of the race against microorganisms, which are evolving far quicker than traditional pharmaceuticals can keep pace with,” said Medical Ensyme Research Association, Immunology Expert, Dr. Hellmut Munch.
JLR also recently introduced a method they devised which could
cure motion sickness
 by generating a wellness score of each passenger where the data collected can be used to personalise a vehicle’s driving data and cabin.


Cycle & Carriage hosts Mercedes-Benz Service Clinic with ‘Flying Doctor’, May 22-26

From
May 22
 to
26
,
Cycle & Carriage
 Batu Caves is hosting a Mercedes-Benz Service Clinic with the presence of the brand’s ‘Flying Doctor’. The service clinic aims to offer customers a complimentary health check for their cars so that they can gain a holistic understanding of their vehicles.
Through the service clinic, customers can learn about what they should and shouldn’t do when it comes to caring for their beloved
Mercedes-Benz
. The technical team at Cycle & Carriage Batu Caves is ready to explain how different parts of their car function, the importance of using quality Mercedes-Benz parts and tools on their car, and how to better care for their car for an exceptional journey on the road.
The ‘Flying Doctor’ from Mercedes-Benz is a technical expert with holistic experience in the maintenance, repair works, and diagnostics of Mercedes-Benz vehicles. There are only 2 ‘Flying Doctors’ in the Southeast Asian region and the particular doctor present at the service clinic is Mr. Saurabh Singh.
Stationed at Mercedes-Benz Malaysia since 2022, Mr. Saurabh Singh has been a ‘Flying Doctor’ based at Mercedes-Benz India (North & East India) since 2015 beforehand. He was the youngest Flying Doctor at Mercedes-Benz India and during his tenure, handled multiple projects with Mercedes-Benz Research & Development and was also responsible for technical support during the launch of AMG vehicles.
RELATED:
All-new Mercedes-Benz E-Class W214 debuts: Rear wheel steering, built-in TikTok app
The Flying Doctor, Mr. Saurabh Singh (centre) speaking to a customer
Together with the ‘Flying Doctor’, car owners can get their car checked by an expert technician who is equipped with knowledge of a wide range of Mercedes-Benz models, including the Mercedes-Benz AMG series. The Flying Doctor and the team at Cycle & Carriage Batu Caves are ready to assist Mercedes-Benz customers.
The service clinic is conducted at Cycle & Carriage Batu Caves which spans a 117,720-sq.ft. built-up area. Accredited as a “Centre of Competence” by Mercedes-Benz, the Batu Caves facility is also awarded a Level 4 certification which allows them to work on severe damage cases. The Cycle & Carriage Batu Caves facility is equipped with:
Special and standard tools for car restoration
A spray booth
Cellete bench and jigs to carry out structure repairs
An aluminium bay with welding machines
A dry sanding area with proper ventilation
Paint reparation bays, spray booths, oven booths, and polishing bays
Mercedes-Benz customers who wish to get a complimentary comprehensive health check for their cars may visit Cycle & Carriage Batu Caves. The program with the brand’s Flying Doctor will take place from
May 22
 to
26
, 2023.
RELATED:
Cycle & Carriage Glenmarie body & paint centre upgraded to Centre of Competence


MMM unveils newly upgraded Mitsubishi 4S Centre in Johor Bahru

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM)
, together with its dealer partner MM Supreme, recently opened the doors to their newly upgraded Mitsubishi Motors 4S centre in Johor Bahru.
Built to Mitsubishi Motor’s latest global brand identity, ‘Drive Your Ambition’, the revamped 4S centre sports a more vibrant facade on the outside. Boasting a built-up area of 15,000 square feet, the new 4S centre features a display area for up to four vehicles, alongside amenities including a customer lounge with WiFi, and a kids corner.
Image:
Mitsubishi Motors 4S Center Tebrau, Johor Bahru – MM Supreme Sdn Bhd/Facebook
The service centre, meanwhile, features six fully-equipped service bays to serve every Mitsubishi model. Being a 4S centre, the new outlet in Johor Bahru is also equipped with body and paint services, providing paint work and repairs for customers’ vehicles at the highest standards and quality.
“Mitsubishi Motors and MM Supreme have been business partners since 2009. Within 14 years of strong business partnership, MM Supreme has already established three Mitsubishi showrooms in Johor, with the first in Batu Pahat in 2009, followed by Muar in 2011, and has now upgraded its footprint to Johor Bahru, opening another 4S centre. This shows MM Supremes’ confidence in the brand, and commitment to further strengthen Mitsubishi’s presence in Malaysia” said MMM Chief Executive Officer, Shinya Ikeda.
RELATED:
Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia sold 24,315 cars in FY2022, up 27% from previous year
Image:
Mitsubishi-MMS.com.my
“The MM Supreme group is the highest sales contributor in Johor. We are optimistic that we will continue to work hand in hand to keep the sales momentum going, and we are ready to serve more customers from Johor better.”
The new Mitsubishi 4S Centre is located at 4C, PLO 136, Jalan Angkasa Mas 2, Kawasan Perindustrian Tebrau 2, 81100 Johor Bahru. The showroom is open from Monday to Sunday from 8.00 am to 6.00 pm.
With the opening of the new outlet, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia is now represented by 58 showrooms and 59 service outlets throughout the nation, including 47 3S centres and seven 4S centres.


Proton adds third 3S centre in Kuantan

Proton has just officiated the new Proton 3S Centre in Kuantan, operated by Pesat Auto CTM Sdn. Bhd. (Pesat Auto). The new 3S centre is the third dealer outlet in Kuantan to carry Proton’s new corporate identity.
Located centrally along the main road in Kuantan, the new 3S centre will house
6 servicing bays
 and 4 hoists, in a built-up area of 750 square meters. Pesat Auto says that the new outlet will boost sales by 30%, and service throughout by 40%.
The new 3S centre is Proton’s latest step forward, bringing the total number of 3S and 4S outlets to
102
.
Proton’s Chief Executive Officer Dr. Li Chunrong said that, “What we are trying to do is to ensure that when a customer walks into a Proton outlet, they immediately feel the Proton experience. We emphasise customer care, and more importantly, addressing any issues in a professional way.
“We understand, that listening to customers cannot be an option – it is a priority. The more we engage with the needs of our customers, the better we are able to serve them and solve their problems,” he added.
Proton is looking to maintain their upward trend in sales growth. With
9,127 units sold in August
, and a
 36% year-on-year growth
, Proton is confident to close the year with high numbers.
Dr. Li added, “We will continue to embark on this transformational journey, and we will strive to continue to wow our customers. Hopefully with more upgraded 3S & 4S outlets in place nationwide, we will slowly but surely draw more customers to the brand.”
The new Proton 3S centre is located at
Lot 3588, Jalan Seri Teruntum 6, 25100 Kuantan Pahang
. The showroom will be operating from 8.30 am to 6.30 pm from Monday to Saturday, and 9.30 am to 5.00 pm on Sundays; servicing workshop will be open from 8.30 am to 5.00 pm from Monday to Saturday.


Toyota Malaysia recalls 2,800 units of Corolla Altis over faulty airbag sensors

UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has just announced a recall for its Toyota Corolla Altis over a faulty airbag sensor module. A total of 2,800 units of Corolla Altis manufactured from June 2015 to January 2016 are involved in the recall.
According to UMWT, Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) initiated a global recall over this issue involving some Toyota and Lexus models. The defect is related to the manufacturing process where the insulation of Integrated Circuit (IC) chips of the Pressure sensors and G sensors might peel off over time. This would illuminate the airbag warning light and may potentially cause the
 front and/or side airbags to be

deactivated unintentionally
 and not deploy when needed to, greatly increase the risk of injury to occupants in the event of a crash.
UMWT is working on securing the parts to carry out the replacement and will notify affected owners to bring their vehicle to a Toyota authorised service centre to make necessary replacements. The replacement will take about 30 minutes to 4 hours (depending on model) and all costs involved will be borne by the company.
Toyota owners can visit Toyota’s Special Service Campaign webpage
here
, and key in their respective VIN Number to check whether their cars are involved in this or any other recall campaign. Alternatively, owners can contact any authorised Toyota service centre or call the Toyota Freephone hotline at 1-800-88-69682.


Father and son caught building fake Ferraris and Lamborghinis in Brazil

There’s a saying that goes, “fake it till you make it” but what they didn’t mention was “don’t get caught doing it”.
A father and son-operated workshop in Brazil recently landed in hot soup when police raided their premise and found various exotic vehicles, including the Lamborghini Huracan, in various stages of completion.
These fake exotics were being built with engines from Mitsubishi, Alfa Romeo and Chevrolet and sold at a fraction of the original prices, ranging from USD47,000 (RM193k) to USD66,000 (RM271k).
Apparently, the quality of work and the finer details are highly dependent on how much clients can pay.
The cars were registered as prototypes but it’s illegal to register homemade prototypes with a registered car logo. Both father and son would be charged for intellectual property offences as the law of industry property prohibits the use of industrial designs and logos.
The replica workshop, believed to be the biggest in Brazil, was reportedly under investigation for some time after complaints from dissatisfied customers on the poor interior finishing.
When contacted, Lamborghini’s spokesperson said that the biggest risk posed by these cars, aside from intellectual property infringement, is that they posed serious safety risks with a lack of basic safety features.
The workshop owners, on the other hand, said they are still open for business and will remain committed to finish what they started.
Credit: Polícia Civil de Santa Catarina
IMAGE GALLERY


Rimac says 0-60mph in under 1 second is possible, but pointless

One company at the forefront of pushing the boundaries of automotive performance is
Rimac Automobili
, founded by Croatian innovator, Mate Rimac. The
Rimac Nevera
 accelerates from 0-60 mph in a blistering
1.85 seconds
 or 0-100 km/h in
1.97 seconds
. However, Rimac Nevera Chief Program Engineer, Matija Renić, recently revealed to
The Drive
 that a car capable of 0-60 mph in under 1 second is possible in the future.
For the uninitiated, the Rimac Nevera produces a staggering maximum output of
1,914 hp
 and a tremendous maximum torque of
2,360 Nm
. Propulsion for the Rimac Nevera comprises four independent permanent-magnet electric motors, with the front motors rated at 226 kW (
307 hp
) each and the rear motors rated at 450 kW (
612 hp
) each. Each motor gets an independent gearbox and inverter.
When asked by
The Drive
 on whether a one-second or half-second 0-60 mph time was possible in the future, Matija Renić responded with: “Below one second”. Considering the Nevera’s acceleration, Rimac Automobili still has to shave off at least 0.86 seconds.
Now, it is possible for the Rimac Nevera to achieve a much faster 0-60 mph time, simply by making it a one-trick pony for the drag strip. However, this is not what Rimac Automobili wants to do.
RELATED:
Rimac Nevera sets a new 1/4-mile record of 8.58 seconds!
Commenting on the Rimac Nevera, Matija Renić said, “The car is very fast, honestly. Figures here and there, we are very proud of them, but the car is more than that. It’s not a one-trick pony, it’s not a dragster that you take to the drag strip and achieve the best times, and that’s it.
The car is actually very, very complex, showing you what automotive technology in the future can do. And it’s also very usable and very friendly from the user’s perspective. And in the end what we wanted to achieve is develop a driver’s car, something that’s very engaging and very rewarding just taking it out and enjoying it.”
RELATED:
Bugatti leaves Volkswagen, forms new company with Rimac
It seems that Rimac Automobili is firm on creating an all-rounder driver’s car instead of an extravagant one-trick pony. At AutoBuzz.my, we’ve had the pleasure of trying the
Porsche Taycan
 Turbo S
 which does 0-60 mph in 2.6 seconds (with Launch Control), and boy, that itself was
an overwhelming, vomit-inducing experience
.
Close to the Rimac Nevera’s reported 1.85-second 0-60 mph time, is the non-supercar
Tesla Model S Plaid
‘s claimed 1.98-second 0-60 mph time (under very specific conditions dictated by Tesla). It is amazing how far supercars and hypercars have come. About 30 years ago, the
McLaren F1
 production car did 0-60mph in 3.2 seconds. Today, we are talking about going 0-60mph in under 1 second.
ALSO WATCH:
We “kidnapped” the Porsche Taycan after driving it on Sepang Circuit!


Sime Darby Racing Team debuts, the 911 GT3 Cup dons batik-inspired livery

Porsche Malaysia
 has just introduced its new racing team, the Sime Darby Racing Team on
April 18, 2023.
 Represented by
Sime Darby Auto Performance
, the racing team is scheduled to make its debut at the 2023 Porsche Carrera Cup Asia (PCCA).
This is in partnership with Earl Bamber Motorsport (EBM) and young Malaysian race driver Nazim Azman at the wheel. The Malaysian team will race with the nation’s pride, incorporating a batik-inspired livery on its
911 GT3 Cup
 car, and will be competing in the PCCA PRO category.
The 20th PCCA season spans the continent once again in 2023, after two seasons of being confined to China. The 2023 race calendar starts in Malaysia, continues through Korea, Japan, Thailand and Singapore before finishing up at Porsche Motorsport Asia Pacific’s home base in Shanghai, China. The one-make series sets equal technical standards across the field, and the seventh-generation GT3 Cup race car based on the 992-generation 911 brings more downforce and technology than ever for better performance.
Together with Earl Bamber Motorsport (EBM), Porsche Malaysia brings a highly-experienced technical partner for the Sime Darby Racing Team. The team is built by double PCCA champion, accomplished Porsche Works driver and two-time 24 Hours of Le Mans winner, Earl Bamber. With a shared vision to nurture the next generation of competitive race drivers, EBM will lend technical support to the Sime Darby Racing Team throughout the 2023 PCCA season, providing sharpened performance for any circuit.
RELATED:
The retro-styled Porsche 911 Sport Classic is the most powerful manual 911 you can buy
Sime Darby Auto Performance CEO, Christopher Hunter said, “Our participation in Porsche Carrera Cup Asia this year underlines our long-standing commitment to Porsche’s motorsport DNA. Porsche Malaysia has been at the forefront in customer track driving programmes, and we have had long history with Earl Bamber Motorsport on track.”
In partnership with EBM and Porsche Malaysia, former FIA Formula 3 race driver, Nazim will be representing the Sime Darby Racing Team in PCCA 2023.
Malaysian race driver representing Sime Darby Racing Team, Nazim Azman said, “It is my pleasure to partner with Porsche Malaysia and Earl Bamber Motorsport to represent the Sime Darby Racing Team at the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia 2023. As this is my first time racing a GT car for a full season, I believe that this opportunity will widen my horizons and experiences in GT racing. I’d like to thank the team for the support and will strive to do my best to step up in the upcoming race.“
Returning to a full Asia schedule, the first stop of the season will flag off at
Sepang International Circuit
 for round 1 and 2 on
April 28
 to
April 30, 2023
. The series then moves around the region before returning to Malaysia for round 9 and 10 on
August 25
 to
August 27, 2023
, alongside round 3 of the Malaysia Championship Series at Sepang International Circuit.
ALSO WATCH:
2022 Porsche 911 GT3 RS unleashed at Silverstone Circuit


Spybuzz: 2016 Lamborghini Huracan Superleggera spied!

The
Lamborghini Huracan
 was unveiled back in 2014, and being a typical Lambo model won’t be complete without the more hardcore Superleggera variant. Thankfully, we won’t have to wait long for that day to come.
Seen here are the pictures of the Huracan Superleggera prototype snapped during its test run stint at the Nurburgring. The latest scoop revealed it’s equipped with more aerodynamic parts, ranging from front and rear diffusers, a revised front bumper and a large rear wing. Also at the back, the dual exhaust pipes are housed in the middle, which look suspiciously production ready. It’s uncertain if the new exhaust will provide performance boost (they probably would) but perhaps the photographer behind these spy shots had a ‘crackling’ time with all the aural pleasure.

As for now, the standard Huracan in LP610-4 guise is powered by a
 5.2-litre naturally aspirated V10
 that pushes out
 610 hp and 560 Nm of torque.
 Power is delivered to all
four wheels
via a
 seven-speed dual clutch gearbox
. Century sprint is dusted in
3.2 seconds
 and it goes onto a top speed of
323 km/h
. Predictably, the lighter and more powerful Huracan Superleggera will eclipse all these standard figures.
Being a Superleggera variant means the Huracan will undergo tremendous diet through more extensive use of carbon-fibre body parts and the removal of several components in the cabin. As its predecessor, the Gallardo Superleggera shedded 100kg, so expect a similar weight loss for the Huracan. It now has a dry weight of
1,422kg
.
There’s no mention of its official unveiling, but our best guess is the Paris Motor Show which will take  place in October. We wait with bated breath!
[Source: Automedia & AutoExpress]
IMAGE GALLERY


The new Ghibli Hybrid is Maserati’s first entry into electrification

After announcing its future plans way back in
September last year
, Maserati has now finally introduced its first foray into electrified vehicles – the
Maserati Ghibli
 Hybrid, ushering in a whole new era for the company.
The big focal point here is of course the engine, which is a
2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged
 unit taken from the Alfa Romeo Giulia (but heavily modified, according to Maserati), paired to a
48-volt alternator
 and an additional
electric supercharger (e-Booster)
, with power fed from a battery mounted at the rear of the car.
The fancy engine, which Maserati claims is unique in the segment, is rated for a total system output of
330 hp
 and
450 Nm
 of torque, the latter available from just 1,500 RPM. Zero-to-hundred km/h takes
5.7 seconds
, onward to a top speed of
255 km/h
.
Impressively, even with all the new electrical bits and pieces, the Ghibli Hybrid actually weighs about
80kg less than the V6 diesel
 variant, while producing 25% less CO2. With the new electrification efforts, Maserati claims that the new Ghibli Hybrid can achieve a fuel consumption figure of
8.5 l/100km
.
What’s more, the company also claims that Ghibli Hybrid will retain the “unmistakable sound that has always distinguished every Maserati”, thanks to an “optimised exhaust”, which includes specially designed resonators. Well, we think we’ll be the judge when it comes out.
To differentiate the new electrified Ghibli from the rest of the crowd, Maserati added multiple blue accents to the exterior of the car, obviously. The blue accent will become the signature of all electrified Maseratis in the future.
Other exterior changes include a new front grille design, inspired by tuning forks which produces a “sound of extreme purity”, as well as the new taillights with a new boomerang light signature, inspired by the 3200 GT and the Alfieri concept car.
The blue accents continues on the interior of the Ghibli Hybrid, with Blue contrast stitching on the leather trims, along with a blue embroidered Trident logo on the headrest.
The Ghibli Hybrid will also debut the new 10.1-inch infotainment system with Maserati Connect, featuring always-on connectivity for over-the-air software updates and telematics.
IMAGE GALLERY


The 2020 Subaru BRZ will debut on Nov. 18 – This is how it’ll (roughly) look like

The upcoming 2020 Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86 twins have been in the works for quite some time now, with the announcement of a
renewed partnership between the two companies
 in September this year officially confirming its existence.
Since then, we’ve seen several
spy shots
 as well as
leaks
 of the Hachiroku twins from the recent
Subiefest event
, but Subaru has just given us our best look at the upcoming 2020 BRZ yet – thanks to a new image of what seems to be the real deal on its updated website, along with the announcement of its world debut date – November 18.
The next-generation Subaru BRZ looks to be somewhat Porsche-inspired, at least when seen from the headlights. The daytime-running lights form a strip underneath the two projector elements, extending along the sides to wrap around the top – we’re guessing that the side portion will act as turn indicators.
We’ve also taken the liberty to do a quick Photoshop edit on the image, mirroring it for the other side and adding a rendered middle section, with the width of the car roughly measured from the number-plate holder with reference to a sample image from the current-generation BRZ. Here’s what we came up with:
We’re not sure how close our composite image will be to the actual car, but with rumours suggesting that it’ll still ride on a modified version of the current chassis, it really shouldn’t be too far off! There could also be some details that is left out on the centre of the bonnet, but well, there’s only so much we can do without seeing the actual car.
Aside from the looks, the biggest question about the upcoming Hachiroku twins is probably its technical specifications underneath the hood. Subaru has not revealed anything just yet, but based on what we can hear from the
video on the website
, the BRZ doesn’t sound like it’ll feature a turbocharger – sorry, we don’t make the decisions.
This suggest that the most recent rumour is probably true, which claims that the 2020 Subaru BRZ will be equipped with a naturally-aspirated 2.4-litre mill that makes
220 hp
 and
240 Nm
. Despite its lack of forced-induction, the new engine output is still a healthy increase over the
current 86
‘s 200 hp and 205 Nm.
We’ll know more about the 2020 Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86 in about two weeks time. Until then, we’ll be keeping a look out for any more rumours that might pop out before the launch – so stay tuned!


Will Smith trains passengers to be a cop in a Porsche Taycan Turbo S

If only the American police force could be convinced to switch from the wobbly, fuel-guzzling Chevys…
In promotion of his new movie alongside Martin Lawrence, Bad Boys for Life, Will Smith teamed up with Californian-based ride-sharing company, Lyft to give a few lucky riders the an unusual experience of a lifetime.
Not only were they riding along with one of Hollywood’s biggest name, they also got some training lessons on being a cop – Mike Larry style.

Now we all know this is also a promotional video of sorts for the
new Porsche Taycan
 but interestingly, not a word about the electric supercar was mentioned.
Admirable, but no supercar experience would be complete without a few short burst at least and these guys sure looked like they had their adrenaline levels heightened. In fact, if you watch closely, you’d notice how aggressive Will Smith can be behind the wheel!
Have any of you watched the movie? How do you like it? Apparently, the Taycan isn’t the only Porsche in the blockbuster.


Volkswagen Golf to axe manual gearbox due to emissions rules

The
Volkswagen Golf
 is set to go fully automatic as part of its mid life-cycle update due next year, if the Euro 7 emissions regulations goes into effect in its current form,
Autocar
 reports. That means that after half a decade on sale, the manual transmission could be going away completely for the iconic hatchback – even on the hotter
Golf GTI
variant.
Speaking to the publication, Volkswagen technical development chief, Kai Grünitz, confirmed the news: “With the next generation of the Golf, there will not be one with a manual gearshift.” Grünitz added that the decision was made to comply with the Euro 7 emissions legislations, although it has not been officially signed off by the VW higher ups, as the legilations could still change before it is ratified into law.
It’s flappy paddles from here on out, I’m afraid.
According to Volkswagen’s own data, the manual Golf GTI carbon dioxide emissions are rated at 162 g/km, compared to 160 g/km of the automatic. While that difference might seem miniscule, it can easily add up exponentially and cause significant implications in the context of manufacturer fleet emissions quotas.
The landmark decision could go down as one of the most significant in the Golf GTI illustrious history, as the model has always been offered with a manual gearbox since its very first debut, back in 1975. That said, Malaysian customers probably won’t be too surprised, since the model has already been DSG-only since its official introduction, back in the Mk. 6 era.
The decision to drop the manual gearbox could also hint at the looming electrification of the Volkswagen Golf line-up. The German carmaker has already pretty much confirmed that the next-generation Golf will be electrified – or even perhaps even fully electric, and losing the manual gearbox might just be the first step in the long process, before the next-generation model launches sometime after 2028.
RELATED:
Volkswagen Golf to live on in EV era – ‘ID. Golf’ name possible, GTI & R to live on too


Nissan’s first fully-electric ‘kei car’ looks as heart-warming as its name

It’s called the Sakura and as you’d expect, it’s named after the Japanese Cherry Blossom. Just like how most would go “Awww” over the sight of Sakuras, it’s hard not to have the same effect on Nissan’s new electric minivehicle or ‘kei car’ as it is known in Japan.
Its design comes with purpose too. The slim headlamps do not only look futuristic, but its triple beam projector – a first in a minivehicle – also increases visibility at night.
Autodesk VRED Professional 2022.1
You’d definitely see this tiny one up ahead with taillamps that stretch across the tailgate; it should be more noticeable than the bloom of a million Sakuras.
The design of the aluminum wheels is inspired by the Japanese ‘mizuhiki’ decorative knots that are commonly found on gift envelopes and packages.
Moving inside, the cabin is much like what you’d expect of a modern Japanese living room, in a super-compact apartment in Tokyo, where cars like the Sakura are made for.
Its soft colour tones are soothing to the sight and if that’s not serene enough, the cabin is even ‘decorated’ with little Sakura motifs in the least expected areas.
Just like a modern Japanese living room, the Sakura is not short of technology. It’s got a 7-inch digital meter, an even larger 9-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto along with on-board navigation.
In addition, it’s equipped with Nissan’s ProPILOT driver assistance system with autonomous braking features, lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control. It’s also the first minivehicle to be able to park itself, with the ProPILOT Park system.
Powering the Sakura is a 20 kWh 350 volt lithium-ion battery that drives the front wheels through an electric motor. It gets 64 hp, 195 Nm of torque and a 130 km/h top speed. There are three different driving modes in the little Sakura – Eco, Sport, and Standard – along with a one-pedal driving system called the e-Pedal step system.
Nissan says it can return 180 km of driving range, taking just eight hours to be fully charged. The battery can also be used to power a typical Japanese household with electricity for a day in the event of an emergency.
GALLERY


Chery meets with Malaysia Government to discuss local investment plans, brand launch in Q2 2023

In addition to
meeting with Geely
, the recent Malaysia entourage to China – led by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim – also held a meeting with Chery International for an in-depth discussion on the company’s investment into Malaysia.
The meeting between the Minister of International Trade and Industry, Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, and executives from Chery International touched on the company’s investment and development plans in Malaysia. According to a press release from the latter, the minister has “showed great interest” in the proposals, recognising Chery’s international corporate strength.
Following the meeting, Chery International was also invited to a round table conference between the Malaysian entourage and various Chinese industry leaders, ahead of the Malaysia-China Business Forum on April 1.
During his keynote speech for the Malaysia-China Business Forum, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced that the country has secured a record
RM170 billion worth of investment commitments
 from China, from a total of 19 memoranda of understanding (MoU) signed between businesses in China and Malaysia.
RELATED:
Chery to produce 30,000 cars annually in Malaysia CKD plant
Chery International has set up a wholly-owned subsidiary here in Malaysia, with the official brand launch to happen in the second quarter this year. Among the first models under the Chery brand to debut in Malaysia include the
Tiggo 8 Pro
 and
Omoda 5
.
The company is reported to be currently finalising its CKD assembly plant agreement with Inokom, with production for its models set to begin in June 2023, with model launches
scheduled for the month after
.
READ MORE:
Chery makes first official appearance in Malaysia – Tiggo Pro Series, Omoda 5 previewed


This is what a Guinness World Records model car collection looks like

For as long as my memory allows me to remember, model cars have always had a huge following and this is largely due to the diverse demographic it attracts.
And former racing driver, Nabil “Billy” Karam from Lebanon is no exception. Having previously set the Guinness World Record for the largest collection of model cars in 2011 with
27,777 cars
, he later broke his own record in 2016 with a total of
37,777 pieces of model cars
.
Nabil’s obsession began early on at a very young age. Sadly, his collection was stolen when his house was broken into and since then, it’s been a dream to rebuild that collection and then some for the former president of Porsche Club Lebanon.
At the beginning, the collection began with a sole focus to collect the cars he used to race, mainly Porsches, but since then the collection has expanded to dioramas as well and as you can see from the video, Nabil has never looked back; amassing a mind-boggling display that’s unimaginable even in a 6-year old’s wet dream.
Credit:
Guinness World Records


UMW Toyota set to launch Hilux in Q2 2016, Alphard and Vellfire in Q3 [+Video]

UMW Toyota Motors is set to have a busy 2016 as the company recently revealed its plans to introduce the new Hilux, Alphard and Vellfire models in the coming months.
First to hit our shores is the eight-generation Hilux in Q2 2016 where it’ll go against the
new Ford Ranger T6
,
Nissan NP300 Navara
 and
Mitsubishi Triton
. The popular pickup debuted in Thailand in mid-2015 and will definitely help Toyota regain traction once it arrives here. There are
two brand new and high-tech commonrail diesel engines powering the Hilux
; a
2.4-litre
 and a
2.8-litre
 turbodiesel.
Engine Name
1GD-FTV
2GD-FTV
Displacement (cc)
2,754 (2.8-litre)
2,393 (2.4-litre)
Bore x Stroke (mm)
92.0 x 103.6
92.0 x 90.0
Compression Ratio
15.6:1
Max Power (bhp @ rpm)
174 hp @ 3,400 rpm
148 hp @ 3,400 rpm
Max Torque (Nm @ rpm)
450 Nm @ 1,600 – 2,400 rpm
330 Nm @ 1,600 – 2,000 rpm
Low-Speed Torque (Nm @ rpm)
370 Nm @ 1,200 rpm
330 Nm @ 1,200 rpm
The new 2.4L produces
148 hp
 with
400 Nm
 of torque, whereas the 2.8L unit makes
174 hp
 with
450 Nm
 of torque. Receiving drive is a new
Aisin-sourced six-speed automatic
 gearbox. Underneath it all is a new and improved chassis which features Toyota’s Frame with Integrated Rigidity Mechanism (FIRM) technology.
In an effort to not lose out premium MPV sales to
parallel importers
, the company will launch the new, third-generation
Alphard and Vellfire
 models during Q3 2016. We spotted both the Alphard and Vellfire during a trip to the 2015 Bangkok Motor Show, and both will likely come with a
2.5-litre Dual-VVTi
 engine with a
seven-speed Super CVT-i
 transmission.
UMW Toyota has set a sales target of a modest
87,000
 for 2016, – 2,000 of which will come from Lexus. In 2015, Toyota sold a total of 93,760 cars, and just 65,295 of them were passenger cars. They subsequently lost the top spot and was dethroned by Honda as the top non-national automaker in Malaysia.
Honda’s strong performing models like the City, Jazz and HR-V have made things a little difficult for Toyota, but what it should be is nothing more than a huge wakeup call on Toyota’s end. It may be a struggling 2016 for Toyota especially after factoring in the
rising prices
 of their cars due to the weakening Ringgit, but it’s only a matter of time before they once again become the non-national king.
IMAGE GALLERY
2015 Toyota Vellfire at Bangkok International Motor Show

2015 Toyota Alphard at the Bangkok International Motor Show


Pagani Huayra R goes turbo-less, for track use only

Pagani returns to building its most extreme expression of its current automobile with the Huayra R. Following the footsteps of the Zonda R track car, the Huayra is the freest, most extreme and performance-oriented Pagani car of all time.
The heart of the new Pagani Huayra R is the engine. “The new engine had to have the charm, romance, sound and simplicity of the F1 engines of the 1980s, while incorporating state-of-the-art technology available today,” said founder of Pagani Automobili, Horacio Pagani. So, the turbochargers have been ditched, returning to natural atmospheric aspiration like the Zonda R over ten years ago.

Listen to the free-breathing V12 engine
The 6.0-litre Pagani V12-R engine, engineered in partnership with HWA AG, has outputs of
850 hp
 at 8,250 rpm and
750 Nm
 of torque from 5,500 rpm to 8,300 rpm, ending its rotation at the speed of 9,000 rpm. Modern technology in computing, design, materials and manufacturing lift the maximum horsepower value by 100 hp and torque by 40 Nm compared to the Mercedes-sourced V12 in the 2009 Zonda R.
Made using lightweight Inconel 625/718 material, the exhaust manifolds are designed so each of the 12 outlets has an identical length for maximum performance, as seen in non-turbocharged Formula One engines.
The exhaust system, fully coated with heat-dissipating
ceramic
 material, is also equipped with
mufflers
 that can be fitted as required, ensuring that noise emissions are reduced to within the FIA limit of 110 decibels at noise restricted circuits. Pagani says the bespoke engine is efficient and easy to operate, requiring a service cycle of 10,000 km interval.
The lighter and less complex naturally aspirated V12 engine is affixed to the carbon fibre monocoque via new materials and structural designs and as such, is 51% more rigid to resist bending and a 16% increase in torsional rigidity. The V12 engine also supports the HWA AG-developed transmission system that features a six-speed sequential, non-synchronized dog ring gearbox and a three-sintered metal disc racing clutch.
The dry weight of the Huayra R is
1,050 kg
, of which 278 kg is represented by the tailor-made powertrain and is nearly 200 kg lighter than the track-focused
Huayra Imola
 road car.
HWA AG has been the go-to company for Horacio Pagani, as the company is lead by Hans Werner Aufrecht whose name represented the ‘A’ in the
AMG tuning
 company before shifting to start HWA AG back in 1998.
Unlike the regular road-going variants with 20- and 21-inch tyre and rim setup, the Huayra R comes fitted with P-Zero
slick tyres
 from Pirelli and in a smaller 19-inch diameter.  The carbon-ceramic disc brakes from Brembo have also been upsized, with the front measuring 410 mm diameter and the rear in 390 mm, each grabbed by six-piston calipers fitted with racing pads.
While the upperbody of the Huayra R doesn’t have many extreme-looking aerodynamic appendages, the vehicle is said to have exceeded its
1,000 kg-downforce
 target with ease.  The full-width fixed rear wing now integrated into the bodywork much better than the Imola.  A set of air vents above the wheel arch and the generous side outlet allow even more effective channelling of air to flow to the rear aerodynamic appendages. The V12 engine breathes through a central scoop that also incorporates a stabilising fin.
Pagani will be releasing a more significant quantity of
30 units
 of the Huayra R with a “lower” price of
EUR2.6 million
 each, unlike the
Huayra Tricolore
 in just three examples and the Huayra Imola with just five units. The V12 engines are back alive, with
Gordon Murray’s T.50
 weighing even lighter and paired with a three-pedal manual transmission.
GALLERY


The 2018 Mazda 6 has just been awarded a 5-star Euro NCAP rating

The updated 2018 Mazda 6 is now officially the first Mazda to achieve a five-star rating under the new, more stringent 2018 Euro NCAP crashworthiness ratings.
The award is credit to the increased rigidity of the car’s lightweight yet impact-absorbing SKYACTIV-Body architecture, a wider range of advanced i-ACTIVSENSE safety technologies and improved pedestrian protection.
Of the four Euro NCAP tests – Adult Occupant, Child Occupant, Vulnerable Road User (pedestrian safety) and Safety Assist – the updated Mazda 6 was better than its predecessor in three out of four tests.
Building on an already substantial spread of i-ACTIVSENSE safety features, the 2018 Mazda6 features an updated Mazda Cruise Control (MRCC), improved Adaptive LED Headlights, an Intelligent Speed Assist (ISA) system, Mazda’s auto-hold function and a 360° View Monitor. Pedestrian protection performance has also been enhanced by the adoption of an active bonnet design.
The Mazda 6’s superior competency on the road also contributed to its five star Euro NCAP rating, with more linear, responsive and predictable acceleration, braking, handling and steering.


Honda Malaysia HR-V on nationwide tour, official launching in February

For those who are keen to see Honda’s latest model – the
HR-V
 (aptly named
H
ip and Smart
R
unabout
V
ehicle) – in the metal, you would be pleased to know that the very car is on display at
Mid Valley
 beginning today till Sunday as part of their month-long nationwide tour.

Widely known or referred to as the
baby CR-V
 (although they share no significant resemblance to our eyes), the HR-V is quite possibly be the strongest B-Segment SUV competitor introduced to date. For starters, it has the
largest engine
 displacement currently in its segment, featuring a
1.8-litre i-VTEC SOHC
 naturally aspirated engine shared with the
Civic 1.8 S
, although Honda hasn’t revealed the numbers it makes yet.
The engine is paired to a
CVT gearbox
 that drives the
front wheels
, which measures at 16-inches wrapped with 215/50R16 series Bridgestone Turanza tyres. The unit you see here is the range topping V-spec, which benefits from a good list of features including
LED headlights
 with integrated LED daytime running lights, LED rear combination lights, keyless entry and push-start ignition.
Inside, the V-spec gets a console pocket with HDMI and USB ports, 7-inch head unit (navigation system may be offered too), multi-angle rear view camera, six airbags, touch-based auto air conditioning, leather seats, Hill Start Assist and Auto Brake Hold, Vehicle Stability Assist, cruise control, ECON Mode with Eco Assist, electric parking brake and as many as
seven cup holders
. Quite a mouthful, isn’t it?
This subcompact SUV can also be viewed on
Honda Malaysia’s website
, and is most likely to be launched at this month’s end, if not in early February, just in time for the Chinese New Year celebrations. Honda Malaysia has already
opened the order books
, but its price tag remains unknown for the time being.
Should you be interested to catch the HR-V in person, here’s a list of where it will make its upcoming stops.
[divider]
IMAGE GALLERY


2023 Toyota Vios open for bookings, from RM90k – EPB, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto

Following the launch of 3 new GR models and two GR Sport models last week, it seems that bookings are now open for the all-new 2023
Toyota Vios
. Starting today,
UMW Toyota Motor

is taking bookings for the all-new Vios, with prices starting from
RM 90,000
 with the ‘E’ variant being the entry-level model.
Now built on the DNGA platform, the all-new Toyota Vios sports a completely different new look with more angular lines and a visually larger appearance. Also new on the all-new 2023 Toyota Vios are 17-inch alloy wheels for the range-topping variant. Colour options include Silver Metallic, Nebula Blue, Spicy Scarlet SE, Attitude Black, and Platinum White Pearl. The Platinum White Pearl body colour will cost an additional RM400.
There are only two variants for the all-new 2023 Vios, namely the ‘E’ and ‘G’ variants. Both cars are powered by a 1.5-litre engine, which seems to be identical to the Indonesian-spec Toyota Vios’s engine that makes 106 hp (metric) and 138 Nm. Unlike in Indonesia, there is no manual option for the Malaysian Toyota Vios. The automatic transmission is most likely a CVT.
Highlights listed in the Vios’ brochure include an electronic parking brake, paddle shifters, 3 drive modes, rear air-cond vents, a 9-inch display unit with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 3D panoramic view, and blind spot monitoring (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
RELATED:
We can’t decide if the all-new 2022 Toyota Vios looks good or bad
Advanced safety features on the new Vios include lane departure prevention, lane departure warning, front departure alert, pre-collision system, lane keeping control, adaptive cruise control, and auto high beam.
Also revealed are “tech-up” optional accessories that include a digital video recorder and a vehicle telematics system. There is also a “Toyota Service Savers” package with either a 5-year/100,000km or a 3-year/60,000 km duration.
Included in the price of the all-new 2023 Toyota Vios is a 5-year/unlimited mileage warranty. The official launch date of the all-new Vios in Malaysia has yet to be revealed. Interested customers can make their bookings for the all-new 2023 Toyota Vios on Toyota Malaysia’s official website.
RELATED:
2023 Toyota Hilux GR Sport launched – first Hilux paddle shifters, sports suspension, from RM159k
GALLERY