Review: 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC 250 4MATIC

The Mercedes-Benz GLC finally marks the three-pointed star’s proper entry into the compact SUV segment. It’s been a long time coming especially for us Malaysians because its predecessor, the GLK, never made it here because it was never made available as a right-hand drive. It’s a pity, really, because BMW have been reaping the sales of their X3 since 2004.
With the demand for SUVs continue growing all over the world, Mercedes can no longer afford to miss out on this timely opportunity to introduce the
GLC
 for the global market. Launched in 2015, the X205 GLC rides on the highly-adaptable
MRA platform
 that debuted on the
W222 S-Class
 in 2013, and Mercedes also made a sleeker variant called the
GLC Coupe
. The GLC is closely related to the
W205 C-Class
, therefore the powertrain options are almost similar to the compact sedan.
QUICK FACTS
Name
Mercedes-Benz GLC 250 4MATIC

Engine
1,991cc; turbocharged inline-four
Transmission
9G-TRONIC, 9-speed automatic
Max Power
211 hp @ 5,500 rpm
Max Torque
350 Nm @ 1,200 – 4,000 rpm
Price (OTR without insurance)
RM328,888
For the Malaysian market, we only get the
GLC 250 4MATIC
 in either the
Exclusive Line
 or the
AMG Line
. They differ in terms of equipment level but both are powered by the same hardware underneath; a
turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder
 coupled to a
nine-speed automatic
 gearbox which sends power to
all four wheels
. Now that Mercedes has a contender in this segment, does the GLC have enough to play catch up with the rest of the premium compact SUV pack? Let’s have a closer look.
EXTERIOR
If you imagine a hatchback W205 C-Class on stilts, you’re not far off from it. There’s that sporty-elegance vibe going on with the design – especially in this AMG Line guise – but with a dash of ruggedness. The bold front conveys that multiple personality with a bewinged three-pointed star that “floats” the middle of the grille, and an aggressive
AMG Line
 front bumper with a wide center air dam. The side vents with double strakes on the front bumper are purely cosmetic though.

Flanking the grille is a pair of shapely headlamps with
LED DRL
 cum turn indicator ‘eye brows’, and they are equipped with
LED Intelligent Light System
. With these you can crank up the high beam and forget about it, because the computers will make sure that you won’t blind oncoming traffic.
The side profile is clean and simple, and even the roof rails are integrated subtly along the roof line. Down below, the rubber-studded side step stands out from the plain and smooth bodywork, although it’s rather pointless for the rear passengers because it tapers off towards the back. The AMG Line also brings a set of
20-inch multi-spoke wheels
 wrapped in
255/45 R20
 rubbers, and I find that they fill the wheel arches just about right; any smaller would probably make the GLC look under-wheeled.

The back is probably where the designers dozed off. Remove the three-pointed star on the tailgate and you’re probably looking at some generic SUV, and with the wide horizontal tail lights, some actually thought it was the Audi Q5 from afar. The detailing is nice though, the roof spoiler melds with the design nicely, and I especially like the LED arrangement in the tail lights and the dual chrome tailpipe finishers at the lower edge of the bumper. At least they add some eye candy to the rather uninspiring rear end.
INTERIOR
The slick interior from the W205 C-Class has been ported over to the GLC, and I’m glad that they did it. Save for the screen that stands out like a sore thumb in the middle of the dashboard, it’s hard to fault the solid build quality and the classy ambiance. Leather covers the seats and door trims, but the black
open-pored wood trim
 splits opinions. Some say it’s charming, some find it weird, and
GC
 thinks the wood grain is similar to the pattern on salmon fillets. Hmm…

The
column mounted gear selector
 also received flak from some, but yours truly find that it’s very intuitive and there’s no doubting that it neatens up the centre console. What’s left between the two front seats is a simple
Comand knob
 to control everything on the screen.
The screen not only shows the GLC’s information such as fuel consumption, driving mode, and navigation, it also displays live feed from the
four cameras
 outside to stitch together a
bird’s eye view
 of the vehicle. Very useful when you’re navigating through narrow roads or tight parking spots, and it saves you from craning your neck out of the glass sunroof, which I hope you probably never did anyway.
However, not everything is in favour inside the GLC. A couple of niggles are the wide transmission tunnel that eats up the front occupants’ foot space, and the placement of the audio control next to the Comand knob. It looks like an afterthought when the rest of the buttons are lined up neatly underneath the CD slot.

As we move over to the back, a ‘robot face’ will greet you every time you step inside. Depending on which side of the robot’s cheek you tap, you can adjust the fan speed or the temperature for the air that comes out of the robot’s round eyes.
Apart from the ‘robot face’ aircond vents, rear passengers also get some privacy with the roll-up blinds. Space is no issue for three adults in the back; there’s ample head and leg room, although the middle seat passenger won’t get as much space as the two outer seats’ occupants.

With the key in your pocket, doing the foot sweep below the rear bumper swings up the tailgate to reveal the 550 litre boot. If you want more space, the entire backrest split 40/20/40 and fold down flat with the boot floor, granting you a total of 1,600 litres worth of cargo space. The absence of a spare tyre means there’s a cavity under the boot floor for extra storage, and other practical features you can find in the boot include anchor points, hooks, as well as a 12v power outlet socket.
PERFORMANCE
Like on the W205 C-Class, the
2.0-litre four-cylinder
 in its ‘250’ tune yields
211 hp
 and
350 Nm
, but on the GLC it’s hooked up to the
9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission
. The
4MATIC all wheel drive system
 on the GLC is permanent but it’s slightly biased towards the rear wheels. It splits the torque 45:55 front to rear under normal load and it will vary the split accordingly when it detects insufficient grip from any of the wheels.
It’s quite a brisk car too. Off the line it takes about
7.3 seconds
 to get to 100 km/h, and the
top speed
 is
223 km/h
. It’s also claimed to be one of the most frugal in its class, sipping
6.5 litres of petrol per 100 kilometers
.
THE DRIVE
If you’ve never driven an SUV before, the GLC 250 is a blissfully easy car to drive. Trekking through a metropolitan maze of narrow streets shouldn’t be a problem with the GLC. The light steering, the raised driving position, and good all-round visibility from the driver’s seat is further boosted by the
360 degree camera
, so first-time SUV drivers can quickly gain confidence behind the wheel.
Despite riding on
AMG sports suspension
 and wearing a set of huge 20-inch rims swathed in low profile tyres, potholes and road irregularities are filtered out from the cabin very well, just like how the quiet interior is insulated from the outside noise.
Getting away from the busy city streets, the turbocharged mill will provide you more than enough grunt to rack up speeding tickets, but the GLC seems to prefer a more relaxed style of driving. The throttle pedal promotes a steady gradual progress from stationary and the transmission complements it well for that duty.
Most of the time it only uses seven out of the nine gear ratios, where under normal circumstances it will skip the first gear unless you’re in
Sport mode
, while ninth is reserved for highway cruising in
Eco mode
. Shift quality is butter smooth and you may want to leave the steering-mounted shift paddles alone. There’s really no need to play with them.
Not only will the GLC cruise in a calm manner, body roll is kept to a minimum if you push it hard into corners. You can put it in Sport Mode to keep the throttle lively and the steering meaty when you feel like taking the GLC to your favourite B-road. But let’s be honest here. That’s not the reason you buy the GLC.
There’s loads of traction from the
4MATIC all-wheel drive system
 to provide you with extra security on slippery twisty roads, so the GLC always feels safe and predictable. However, a permanent all-wheel drive system means it requires more fuel to get moving. Regardless what the claimed fuel consumption is, I averaged around 12.0 litres per 100 km during my stint in the GLC, which is neither shocking nor spectacular.
IS THIS CAR FOR YOU?
If you wished the W205 C-Class could do more than just glide on the road and carry more luggage, look no further. The GLC retains most of the C-Class’ desirability and adds on a huge dollop of extra practicality allowing you to do more with just one vehicle. The RM40k price difference between them is pretty much justifiable considering the additional ability and the all-wheel drive system the GLC has to offer, so what’s not to like?
COMPARISONS
The GLC has definitely caught up with the two main rivals, the
BMW X3
 and the
Audi Q5
. Over here in Malaysia, all three compact SUVs are quite evenly matched in terms of hardware, but they differ slightly in terms of power output and not to mention the price. Every car here utilises a turbocharged
2.0-litre four-cylinder engine
 and
all-wheel drive
, but the GLC edges out by having an extra cog compared to the eight-speed auto in the X3 and the Q5.
You can’t dismiss the Audi Q5 because it’s the oldest of the bunch. A glance at the stats reveals that it packs the most punch, and it’s cheaper than the less potent GLC. Meanwhile, the X3 is only available in the sole xDrive20i guise, therefore it’s the least powerful of the German trio. Recent facelift connects the headlights to the kidney grille, otherwise the styling is as fussy as before.
Also worth mentioning is the
Porsche Macan
, another German that has just been
recently updated
 with 252 hp and 370 Nm. However, if you don’t fancy any of the German brands, there’s the swanky
Range Rover Evoque
, the sharp-suited
Lexus NX 200t
, and the powerful underdog, the 306 hp and 400Nm
Volvo XC60 T6
.
Mercedes-Benz GLC 250 4MATIC AMG Line
BMW X3 xDrive20i
Audi Q5 2.0 TFSI quattro
ENGINE
Type
inline-4, DOHC, turbocharged
inline-4, DOHC, turbocharged
inline-4, DOHC turbocharged
Displacement
cc
1,991cc
1,997cc
1,984cc
Max Power
hp/rpm
211/5,500
184/5,000
225/4,500
Max Torque
Nm/rpm
350/1,200
270/1,250
350/1,500
STEERING
Type
Electronic Power Steering
Electronic Power Steering
Electronic Power Steering
DRIVETRAIN
Transmission
9-speed automatic
8-speed automatic
8-speed automatic
SUSPENSION
Front
Multi-link
MacPherson Strut
Double wishbone
Rear
Multi-link
Multi-link
Multi-link
BRAKES
Front
Ventilated & Perforated Disc
Ventilated Disc
Ventilated Disc
Rear
Ventilated Disc
Ventilated Disc
Ventilated Disc
TYRE & WHEELS
Tyre
255/45 R20
245/50 R18
235/60 R18
Wheels
20-inch Alloy
18-inch Alloy
18-inch Alloy
DIMENSIONS & WEIGHT
Overall Length
mm
4,656mm
4,648mm
4,629mm
Overall Width
mm
1,890mm
1,881mm
1,898mm
Overall Height
mm
1,639mm
1,675mm
1,655mm
Wheelbase
mm
2,873mm
2,810mm
2,807mm
Max Kerb Weight
kg
1,735 kg
1,795 kg
1,730 kg
Luggage Capacity (VDA)
Litres
550 litres
550 litres
540 litres
FUEL
Tank Capacity
Litres
66 litres
67 litres
75 litres
Consumption
litres per 100km
6.5 litres
7.2 litres
7.9 litres
PERFORMANCE
Max Speed
km/h
223
210
222
0 to 100 km/h
sec
7.3
8.2
7.1
Price
RM
RM328,888.00
RM296,800.00
RM324,900.00
WILL I BUY IT?
With so many choices, the GLC 250 4MATIC might not be the quickest or the best handling premium compact SUV out there, but it offers just the right amount of style, pace, and practicality rolled into one neat package. It’s not without its flaws, but it’s definitely one of the best all-rounder from Mercedes in recent years. If I have to settle with just one car in my garage I’d be happy with the GLC, but I’ll be sure to reverse-park it every time to avoid sight of the rear end.
IMAGE GALLERY


There’s a new M Performance Edition for the 330e and X5 xDrive40e in Malaysia

BMW Malaysia today introduced the BMW 330e M Performance Edition and BMW X5 xDrive40e M Performance Edition; each equipped with M Performance Accessories where only 300 units are offered for each of
 BMW Malaysia’s best selling PHEV models
.
In the BMW 330e, you’ll get M Performance side skirts, side sill foils, and front grilles in high-gloss black, as well as the lightweight M Performance Carbon mirror caps for the side mirrors.
Check out the BMW 530i dressed in the M Performance Kit
here
.
You’ll also get a front splitter in Matte Black, a rear spoiler and a rear diffuser, in addition to the aggressive M Performance dark tail lights. Inside, the M Performance kit provides a set of
stainless steel pedals and footrests.
As for the X5
xDrive40e, you get pretty much the same items in the 330e M Performance Edition, with the carbon front splitter and carbon rear diffuser being the only difference. Stainless steel pedals are also applied in the X5’s interior.
The retail price (on the road, without insurance) for the BMW 330e M Performance Edition is
RM 258,800.00
with installments starting from
RM 3,278.00
 with the Easy Drive Programme from BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia. The X5 xDrive40e M Performance on the other hand, goes for
RM 390,800.00
. With the same Easy Drive Programme, monthly installments start from
RM

4,878.00
.


Mitsubishi’s Flood Relief Program: 50% off for owners affected by the flood

Mitsubishi owners who are affected by the flood in the east coast can at least breathe a sigh of relief, because Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) has just announced their Flood Relief Program that offers a
50 percent discount
 on spare parts damaged by the flood.
However, only vehicles purchased through authorised Mitsubishi dealers can qualify for program, which ends on 31 January 2015. MMM will also help clean up some of the flood-hit areas such as Kuala Krai, Tanah Merah and Temerloh from today till 10 January, supported by the
Triton Tuners Club
 – the official club for Triton owners in Malaysia.
The company has also pledged to give
RM50

for every car sold
 last year, which at present amounts to
RM81,000
. That’s a total of
1,620
 Mitsubishi vehicles sold last year, and the fund raised will be used to replenish essential items such as school supplies and household utilities.
The Triton Tuners Club leaving MMM’s HQ
Acting CEO and Chief Financial Officer of MMM, Toshiyuki Okumura said, “We hope that this Flood Relief Program offered by MMM will help ease the burden of our customers through this difficult period. Our heartfelt prayers and best wishes go out to our customers and their families who have been affected by the floods.”
Those affected can visit any authorised Mitsubishi dealer or contact their Customer Careline at
1-800-18-6611
 for immediate assistance.


This Range Rover lookalike is actually a Zotye T800, from China

Renderings of the new Zotye T800 due to be launched in China next year has surfaced and its resemblance with the Range Rover is shamelessly uncanny.
According to CarNewsChina.com, the T800 will be the new flagship SUV powered by two engine options – a 2.0-litre turbocharged unit producing
200 hp
 and a 2.0-litre turbocharged hybrid with around
250 hp
.

The T800 will be positioned above the
Zotye SR9, the Porsche Macan clone
 and will presumably replace the current outgoing T700. The T800 will only cost approximately 180,000 yuan (RM 112k).
Zotye had recently come to terms with Ford
 in a joint venture to build electric cars in China under a new brand. Volvo, now under the ownership of Geely had also announced that their
first ever full electric car will be made in China
.
Source:
CarNewsChina
 / Image Credit:
Facebook


The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe is coming to Malaysia real, real soon

The next Mercedes-Benz car to be introduced here is the
C238 E-Class Coupe
, and it would be slotted right in the Dream Cars range.
Details are currently scarce, but the E 200 and E 300 duo will most likely form the launch offensive. Judging by Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s most recent track record, we can also expect the hotter E 43 Coupe and E 63 S Coupe to make their way here in the not-too-distant future.
Essentially, the new E Coupe has grown larger in dimensions, with a wheelbase that is a staggering 113 mm longer (2,873 mm) than before. It gets all the fancy tech trickeries of the four-doored limo, including the ludicrous 64-coloured LED ambient lighting, fully digital 12.3-inch instrument cluster and even the illuminated analogue clock.
They will both share the M274
2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine
 making
184 hp
 at 5,500 rpm and
300 Nm
 of torque from 1,200 to 4,000 rpm. The E 300 gets a hotter tune with
245 hp
 and
 375 Nm
 of torque. There’s also the E 400 with a twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 making
333 hp
 and
480 Nm
 of torque as the range topper, but it’s unclear at this point if it will debut at the same time. All variants get a 9G-Tronic automatic transmission as standard.
It’s only a matter of time now before the E Coupe lands in Malaysia, so best get that chequebook ready. More details of the car will be revealed in due time, so watch this space! Meanwhile, enjoy the gallery below.
IMAGE GALLERY


Review: Volkswagen Passat B8, exciting in every way

When our colleague Nadji reviewed the seventh-generation Passat back in 2014, his piece was titled “
Business as usual
“. It proved to be a well rounded D-segment sedan that fulfils your daily business needs without drama. In other words, dull.
Having owned one in the family, I am well acquainted to all the quirks of the B7 Passat. I’ll admit, considering the other more exciting and dynamic offerings in the D-segment, the B7 has plenty of catching up to do. Therefore, I expect the B8 to be either exceptionally good or just another dull D-segment sedan. When Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) invited us for a test drive in Langkawi, I can’t help but get a little excited.
QUICK FACTS
Name
Volkswagen Passat 1.8 TSI Comfortline
Volkswagen Passat B8 2.0 TSI Highline
Engine
1,798cc; inline-4 turbo with BlueMotion technology
1,984cc; inline-4 turbo with BlueMotion technology
Transmission
7-speed DSG (Dry Clutch)
6-speed DSG (Wet Clutch)
Max Power
178 hp @ 5,100 – 6,200 rpm
217 hp @ 4,500 – 6,200 rpm
Max Torque
250 Nm @ 1,250 – 5,000 rpm
350 Nm @ 1,500 – 4,400 rpm
Price
RM179,990
RM198,99
EXTERIOR
Built on the group’s MQB platform, the new generation Passat’s dimensions are measured at 4.76 meters in length, 1.83 meters in width and 1.45 meters in height. Overall wheelbase has grown a whopping 79mm to 2,791mm. However, the biggest merit of the MQB platform is weight savings as the Passat B8 is
90kg lighter
 than before. For the purpose of the drive, VPCM has prepared two variants – the Comfortline and Highline. There will be an entry-level Trendline when the car is officially launched.
When I first laid eyes on the B8 in the metal, I have to say VW designed a stunning looking car. Yes, some may argue it resembles a Passat CC (B7), the side profile is
 exactly
the same as the previous generation and the rear is basically taken from the Jetta. But if you take a closer look, the new Passat is actually much sleeker than before.
The curvy edges on the front gives off a sporty impression and is flanked with stunning LED headlamps. The door mounted side mirrors (previously mounted on the A-pillar) is a subtle yet impactful detail that makes the Passat seem like it’s lowered. Compared to the B7, this Passat reeks elegance. I just wished that it came with the more attention grabbing tail lamps design like the dotted LED design on the B7.

At a glance, it is hard to tell the two variants apart. The only exterior differences are the 280 TSI badge on the Comfortline while the Highline gets a 380 TSI designation. As with the
facelifted Jetta
, VPCM explained that the numbers classify which torque category the vehicles belong to. On the 1.8-litre Comfortline, the engine produces
250 Nm
 of torque, below the 280 mark hence “280 TSI”. The 2.0-litre Highline produces
350 Nm
 of torque falling in the “380 TSI” category.
Besides that, the Comfortline gets a twin exhaust pipe outlet while the Highline gets a trapezoidal outlet integrated to the rear bumper. Lastly, the Comfortline rides on 17-inch “Istanbul” design alloys with 215/55 profile Continental ContiPremiumContact 5 tyres while the Highline rides on larger 18-inch “Dartford” design alloys with lower profile 235/45 ContinentalSportContact 5 tyres.

INTERIOR
Inside, the two variants are largely similar. Both get a tri-zone climate control, rear air-cond blowers, cooled glovebox, leather wrapped multifunctional steering wheel with paddle shifters, leather seats, 12-way powered driver’s seat with memory and massage function, six-way powered front seat for the passenger, keyless entry and start, electronic parking brake with auto hold, cruise control, powered boot with keyless operation, park assist, Park Pilot (helps park the car itself) and reverse camera. Yep, quite a mouthful.
Jumping into the Comfortline, you’ll be greeted with a silver chrome trim across the dashboard and around the infotainment system. Truth to be told, the silver trims do reflect sunlight pretty harshly and can be pretty irritable, but at least they are well put together. The 6.5-inch touchscreen head unit runs on a simpler operating system that does not come with navigation and smartphone MirrorLink (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto). The driver instrument cluster on the other hand is a simpler set of analogue gauges with a coloured display for essential driver’s information.

Inside the Highline, the atmosphere is instantly more luxurious and elegant. With the wood trim and piano black finish in place of the silver chrome trim, the interior looks at least 10 times more expensive. The same sized touchscreen infotainment system in the Highline comes with navigation and smartphone MirrorLink. Although on both variants, the audio quality from the speakers lack low end bass and high end clarity, even after fiddling with the equaliser. But the setup is more than enough to catch the BFM Breakfast Grille clearly.
The Highline also comes with an
Active Info Display
 that is similar to Audi’s Virtual Cockpit. The instrument cluster is replaced with an LCD screen to project all your essential driving needs. Like on the
Audi TTS
and
Q7
, the navigation can also be displayed onto the Active Info Display right in front of you. The display is well-lit and extremely crisp, truly a pleasure to lay eyes on.

Lastly, if you’re the type to be chauffeured in, the Highline comes with a powered rear sunshade for the rear windscreen. The rear doors unfortunately, do not come with sunshades.
PERFORMANCE
The B8 Passat comes with two engine choices: a 1.8-litre TSI for the Comfortline and a 2.0-litre TSI for the Highline. The 1.8-litre TSI is mated to a seven-speed dual clutch DSG transmission (dry clutch) to produce
178 hp
 and
 250 Nm
 of torque. That is
20 hp
 more than the outgoing B7 while maintaining the same torque figures.
The 2.0-litre mill is taken straight from a Golf GTI, hence it is mated to a six-speed dual clutch DSG transmission with a wet clutch type to produce
217 hp
 and
350 Nm
 of torque. The difference between the Passat and Golf GTI are only the engine and transmission tuning.
As with the Golf GTI, the Highline comes with an electronic differential lock –
XDS
 that applies individual brakes on the inner wheel to reduce understeer around bends. The Highline Passat also comes with
Dynamic Chasis Control (DCC)
 that adapts the gearbox and suspension damping settings to five different modes – Eco, Comfort, Normal, Sport and Individual.
As some of you may be aware of, the B8 has been
teased
 and
spied
 all over Malaysia for years. VPCM explained that the delay of the launch of the B8 was to facilitate vigorous testing on Malaysian roads to put the minds of DSG nonbelievers at ease.
After more than
200,000km
 on the clock, from rush hour traffic congestion to unforgiving undulations of our roads, the Passat B8 has seen them all. Both seven-speed DSG (Dry clutch) and six-speed DSG (Wet clutch) Passat passed the test with flying colours without any breakdowns. Of course, these results were achieved by adhering to the recommended service procedure. Now that we’ve cleared our doubts on potential breakdowns, it’s time to see how is it like to drive.
THE DRIVE
Starting from the 1.8-litre TSI Comfortline, the power delivery is superb and properly managed thanks to the lightning quick DSG and clever traction control. As opposed to the B7 where torque steer is apparent, the B8 kept its composure in a straight line. Off the line, there is no jerking whatsoever despite being a dry clutch type thanks to new gearbox components and tuning. This makes driving around town extremely comfortable.
When pushed around a corner, the Comfortline Passat is well planted to the tarmac. Body roll is kept at a minimum and the turn-in manoeuvre is incredibly agile. Although the chassis is stiffer overall, the pleasant ride comfort on B7 is surprisingly maintained on the B8, possibly due to the higher profile tyres on the B8 (215/55) compared to the B7 (235/45). Regardless if you’re in the driver seat or passenger seat, you will definitely come to appreciate the well balanced driving dynamics and comfort on the Passat.
The cabin is well insulated even at ungodly speeds. Driving through a poorly lit road, the LED headlamps do a fantastic job in lighting up the road ahead. Although I have to mention the high beams are a little slow in engaging and disengaging; I had to disengage the high beam a little earlier than any other cars to avoid blinding oncoming traffic. Overall, the Passat is off to a great start in my books.
Jumping into the 2.0-litre Highline, the extra
100 Nm
 is not to be taken lightly. On full throttle, the Highline wheel spins in second gear. It sounds silly to be wheel spinning in an executive sedan but it sure did put a smile on my face. Drive it as any decent human being would, the Highline absorbs the road’s undulations much better than the Comfortline despite having larger wheels. Credit is due to the DCC as the chassis softens up in comfort, perfect for being chauffeured in while you’re enjoying the spacious rear seats. That is until you flick it into Sports Mode.
With the DCC in Sport, suddenly the Golf GTI recipe makes so much sense. During upshifts, the six-speed DSG was not as quick as the seven-speed DSG but what you get in return is a raspy exhaust note and the infamous DSG fart. Boy, was it addictive. The Passat, despite its size, is eager to change direction with high precision. The stiffer damping settings and lower profile sports tyres come together harmoniously to keep the Passat planted around the scenic B-roads of Langkawi. Who says you can’t have fun in a D-segment sedan?
IS THIS CAR FOR YOU?
With an indicative price of below RM200k, the Passat is a great package for those in the market for a D-segment. It rides comfortably well, boasts exceptional driving dynamics and a well-laid out interior. Checks all the right boxes for a decent executive sedan.
VPCM will be offering the Passat B8 in three variants, so there is a Passat for everyone. A capable family sedan? Trendline for you. Need a little more tech? Comfortline should do the trick. Been eyeing for that Golf GTI but need to fit the family? The Passat Highline or how other industry colleagues put it – Golf GTI Sedan.
COMPARISONS
For D-segment sedans under RM200k, the closest rivals in terms of ride quality and performance would be the
Ford Mondeo
 and the
Mazda6 2.5
. The Mondeo’s interior is no where as polished nor pleasant as the Passat, although it’s 345 Nm pulling force comes very close to the figures of the 2.0-litre TSI.
As for the Mazda6 2.5-litre, it definitely handles better than the 1.8-litre TSI Comfortline but the 2.0-litre TSI Highline with DCC equipped offers much more flexibility in the damping settings. Although the 2.5-litre SkyActiv mill is a smooth and capable operator, the power delivery from a forced induction engine is simply incomparable. There is the
Mazda6 SkyActiv-D
that comes with
420 Nm
which you could consider. But be reminded that you don’t have the luxury to stretch your legs in the Mazda.
WOULD I BUY IT?
In a heartbeat. Of course, it must come with
350 Nm
 at my disposal. If the indicative price tag of below RM200k holds true, the Passat B8 is arguably the most all-rounder executive sedan in the market within that price bracket. Regardless of variant, the Passat offers excellent ride comfort and superior performance, it’s the best of both worlds. Now, I wonder if VPCM accepts trade-in for the Passat B7.
The Passat B8 is set to be launched on 16 November 2016, and will be locally assembled at the Pekan Production Plant.
IMAGE GALLERY
COMFORTLINE 1.8 TSI

HIGHLINE 2.0 TSI

 Passat B8


McLaren builds a “Dubai-edition” 720S – a tribute to its founder Bruce McLaren

Finished in Zenith Black paint with a satin finish, complete with gold-coloured alloy wheels, a 24-carat gold engine heatshield and gold-colour interior trims, a one of a kind McLaren 720S by McLaren Operations (MSO) with the “1 of 1” plaque will be McLaren’s centrepiece at the 2017 Dubai International Motor Show.
Its unique rear wing bears the famous quote by McLaren founder, Bruce McLaren which goes, “Life is measured in achievement, not in years alone” – painted across the upper surface of the wing in gold Arabic lettering which echoes Dubai’s city skyline.
Personalisation of the car took more than
120 hours
 on top of the production process where the rear wing alone took
30 hours
 to complete using stensils produced by MSO.
The one-off edition sees an addition of carbon fibre exterior bits which include the front splitter, air intakes, rear bumper and roof panel. Its door mirror arms, rear aero bridge, engine cover and rear diffuser are all from the MSO Defined range of carbon fibre components.
Inside, the black Alcantara and leather trims complement the MSO Defined carbon fibre sill panels, air vents and steering wheel. Satin gold paint is extended to the paddle shifters, along with a centre band and pin-striping of the same colour to the steering wheel and the spokes.
The McLaren 720S is powered by a 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbocharged engine capable of a 0 to 200 km/h time of
7.8 seconds
, before topping out at a top speed of 341 km/h.
IMAGE GALLERY


Special edition Mercedes-AMG G63 celebrates 55 years of AMG

After confirming that the
first fully-electric G-Class, the EQG
, will go into production in 2024, Mercedes-Benz has revealed the
Mercedes-AMG G 63

“Edition 55” in celebration of 55 years of AMG.
“From a two-man start-up in 1967 to a state-of-the-art development site including its own engine manufacturing facility for high-performance vehicles and more than 2000 qualified employees in 2022 – the success story of Mercedes‑AMG over the past 55 years is simply impressive,” said Mercedes-AMG, Chairman, Philipp Schiemer.
The “Edition 55” G 63 is available either in Obsidian Black Metallic or Opalite White Bright paint, complemented with decals of the AMG emblem on the sides. The forged wheels are 22-inch in size, in Matt Tantalum Grey. The exterior is also specified with the AMG Night Package for high gloss black trims on the door lining, front and rear bumper.
The interior is predominantly red and black, with “Edition 55” wovened onto the carpets. The AMG Performance steering wheel, just like the one in the AMG GTR, is wrapped in Dinamica microfibre also commemorates the anniversary with the “AMG” and “55” badges. Furnished with AMG seats upholster in Nappa leather, the rest of the interior is decorated with matte carbon fibre trims.
Under the square bulges of the front end is a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 monster with 585 hp and 850 nm, to drive all four wheels. 0 to 100 km/h only takes 4.5 seconds.
GALLERY


Already a limited-edition in Europe, Toyota GR86 to be discontinued by 2025

The second-generation Toyota coupe was formally launched in
Japan last month
 and now resources have shifted to Europe, with Toyota previewing the GR86 at its Kenshiki European Forum.
While the specifications of the vehicle have not changed, maintaining its naturally-aspirated 2.4-litre boxer engine with outputs of
234 hp
 and
250 Nm
, Toyota Motor Europe (TME) said it can only offer the GR86 on the showroom floors for just two years.
TME did not disclose the reason for such an incredibly short lifespan for the sports coupe that begins from the first half of 2022. One would assume it could be combustion engines and the associated emissions, but the EU is only banning engines in
2035
, some 10 years after the timeline that TME mentioned for the GR86.
You don’t need to wait, as the Toyota GR86 can already be raced in the virtual world of PlayStation and Gran Turismo Sport, today!
As such,
Autocar UK
 suspects non-compliance to new Euro NCAP regulations as the reason for the short two-year sales period. Euro NCAP has introduced a series of technical and non-technical test protocols from 2020, with the most significant being the Mobile Progressive Deformable Barrier (MPDB) crash test, replacing the 23-year-old offset-deformable barrier test.
MPDB, 2020
ODB, 2015
Example of a Toyota Mirai under the MPDB assessment
This new crash test not only evaluates the protection of occupants inside the car but also assesses how the cars’ front-end structures contribute to injuries in the opposing vehicle. Energy levels are significantly higher, as both the subjected vehicle and the barrier are in motion, unlike the older barrier that is stationery.
Made by
Subaru
, the heavily-revised Toyota GR86 features additional structural bracing and fasteners that increases lateral rigidity by 60% while body twisting rigidity has been increased by 50%, which are essential for corner-carving capabilities but not an
offset-crash into an oncoming vehicle
.
Although faced with such a short sales window, TME’s vice-president, Tom Fux, told Autocar UK, “We felt that the vehicle is so good and so needed for Toyota’s image in Europe, and we have a small but very passionate group of customers out there who are searching for vehicles like the GR86.”
“In the end, we decided it’s important to offer this vehicle, and then we will need to stop the vehicle because it will not meet the new requirements in the future.”
Available in two transmissions, the manual-equipped Toyota GR86 completes the 0 to 100 km/h sprint in
6.3 seconds
, while the six-speed conventional automatic requires 0.6 seconds longer. The time of 6.9 seconds for the automatic is nonetheless still faster than the
outgoing 200 hp
 2.0-litre model with three pedals thanks to its sheer power and no increase in weight.
For us here in Malaysia, UMW Toyota Motor will most likely introduce the GR86, judging by how successful the sales of
GR Yaris
 and
GR Supra
 were plus the ever-increasing
brand awareness
 of Toyota Gazoo Racing. The model is also not hindered by supply issues, unlike the GR Yaris that was allocated in limited quantities to smaller markets such as ASEAN.
GALLERY
MPDM, 2020


Own a Proton from as low as RM326 per month with 1.99% interest rate! [+Video]

Proton Holdings Berhad has announced the commencement of their
‘Even More Value’ campaign
, offering an interest rate of
1.99 percent per annum
 on selected Saga and
Iriz variants
. But that’s not all. The campaign will also be granting customers an extended warranty of seven years (selected models only) and a
100 percent financing scheme
 for government officials.
There will also be attractive deals for graduates and undergraduates to enjoy. For those who are starting off fresh out of college/university, a brand new
Proton Iriz 1.3L
 can be had from just
RM326 a month
 with an interest rate of 1.99 percent annually. For selected new cars bought during the promotion, owners can look forward to paying up to
26 percent less
 on service packages. Downpayment on the other hand, can be as low as
RM1,000
!
CEO of Proton, Dato’ Abdul Harith Abdullah said, “The extended 7-years warranty proves that Proton cars, particularly the Iriz, which holds a
5-Star

crash safety rating
 by ASEAN NCAP and equipped with the latest safety features such as Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) that consists of anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and hill-hold assist apart from the ISOFIX with top tether, is the
safest car in its category
 and sold at a very competitive price compared to compact cars of other brands.”
The Even More Value campaign runs from
21 May to 30 June 2015
 and is valid at
all 211 Proton showrooms
 nationwide. Proton is calling on all those who are interested to test drive any one of the cars at their nearest showroom.
If you haven’t already seen our review of the Proton Iriz, be sure to click on the link to it
here
 or
read our full review
 and
comparison
 between the 1.3L and 1.6L Iriz.
[divider]
IMAGE GALLERY


2016 Kia Sorento now in Malaysia, seven seater SUV priced from RM156k

Continuing our coverage from Naza Kia Malaysia’s
double event
 is the launch of new third-generation Sorento SUV. The Sorento is a full size seven-seater SUV with three variants offered, a diesel and two petrol.
The first two generations of the Sorento have both been sold in Malaysia before, and now it’s up to this new Korean model (codename UM) to continue its people carrying duties. All three variants of the Sorento are available as an all-wheel drive.
QUICK FACTS
Name
Kia Sorento 2.2L CRDI
Kia Sorento 2.4L MS
Kia Sorento 2.4L HS
Engine
2,199 cc; Common Rail Direct Injection, DOHC
2,359 cc; 4-cylinder, DOHC
Transmission
6-speed automatic
Max Power
197 hp @ 3,800 rpm
168 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Max Torque
441 Nm @ 1,750 – 2,750 rpm
224 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
Price
RM155,888.00
RM165,888.00
RM175,888.00
EXTERIOR
Where the
Sportage
 has edgier aesthetics, the Sorento gets a bolder and more mature stance. Between a pair of projector headlamps with LED daytime running lights (only for the petrol premium variant) sits the large “tiger-nose” grille, quite possibly the largest grille ever fitted onto a Kia. This particular grille with distinctive three-dimensional cubic mesh pattern adds the Sorento’s maturing stance.

Just like the Sportage, the Sorento is offered with 19-inch rims with 235/55 R19 tyres, but only for the petrol variants. Also to note, two different design of rims are used for two petrol variants as well. The diesel meanwhile settles for the smaller 17-inch rims with 235/65/ R17 tyres.
INTERIOR
The third row seats aren’t the most cramped seats we’ve seen, but still it’s best reserved for small children. Fold these seats and you’ll get 605 litres of space, but with both middle and rear seats are down, the Sorento swallows up to 1,662 litres of goods.

The interior is surrounded by dark soft-touch materials and leather, giving it that hint of luxury that’s usually absent in cars of this price point. It also receives infotainment headset, electric seats, rear air conditioning vents, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a 7-inch TFT colour LCD supervision cluster. So if you’re looking for maximum creature comforts with lots of space and comfort, look at Sorento petrol premium variant.
PERFORMANCE
Two engine choices are available, and for the first time, Kia is offering the diesel engine as the Sorento’s entry level variant, something other brands rarely ever do. The oil burner is powered by a
 2.2-litre Common Rail Direct Injection
 turbo diesel that produces a healthy
197 hp
 and
441 Nm
of torque. For the record, that engine is still in use for the current Hyundai Sante-Fe. The petrol variants utilise the same
2.4-litre MPI four-cylinder
 engine from before, and churns
168 hp
 and
225 Nm
 of torque.
Just like the Sportage, all Sorento variants are mated to a
six-speed automatic gearbox
, which is developed in-house by the Hyundai-Kia group.
SAFETY
The new Sorento is boosted with class-leading safety features, ranging from six airbags, vehicle stability management, electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, and hill-start assist control. To top it off, the Sorento is a 5-Star achiever in the Euro NCAP crash test.
WHAT ELSE?
The new Sorento is priced from
RM155,888
, making it a direct competitor to the
Isuzu MU-X
. The other two petrol variants, the standard and premium, are priced at
RM165,888
 and
RM175,888
 respectively. All prices are on-the-road figures with insurance and GST included, and it’s available in three colours – Clear White, Aurora Black Pearl, and Silky Silver. All Malaysia-bound Sorentos are locally assembled and is offered with a 5-Year unlimited mileage warranty.
So, dear readers, would you pick this over the newly launched
Toyota Fortuner
 and
Ford Everest
?
IMAGE GALLERY


Aston Martin wows Goodwood crowd with the 7.0L V12 Vulcan [+Video]

Earlier in February this year at the Geneva Motor Show, Aston Martin teased the Vulcan, a track-only V12 powered supercar to its fans around the world. For the first time ever at Goodwood, patrons of the West Sussex county, festival-of-all-things-fast witnessed the first public running of the Vulcan when it took the hill climb with Aston’s LM driver Darren Turner behind the wheel.
This is the premier of Aston’s offering to the
 ultra-exclusive
 billionaire boys club for adrenaline junkies who desire stripped out megapowered track-only supercars. Other members of this club include the likes of the
McLaren P1 GTR
, the
La Ferrari based FXX-K
 and the ageing
Pagani Zonda R
. So how does this Aston stack up against these hand built tarmac-munching track weapons ?
The Vulcan was made in conjunction with
Aston Martin Racing’s
 (AMR) efforts in the
24 hours of Le Mans
. Powering the Vulcan is a
7.0-litre, twelve-cylinder
 nuclear powerplant that seems to have familial ties with the
 million-Pound
 (and then some)
Aston Martin One-77
. It’s reported to produce
 over 800 hp
 that fires onto the
 rear set of 345/30 X19
 wheels via a
six-speed sequential
 gearbox built by British motorsport transmission gurus,
Xtrac
.
Now, Aston has kept their cards rather close to the chest here pertaining to the Vulcan’s facts and figures. But what we can tell you is that it does the century sprint in
under three seconds
. The top speed is claimed to be in
excess of 320 km/h
. Go figure! Not only that, but the Vulcan also weighs an estimated
1,350 kg
, which works out to nearly
600 hp per tonne!
The
Vulcan
 was developed by Aston Martin’s long-term specialist body engineering, manufacturing partner and ally,
 Multimatic,
 who helped built the
carbon composite monocoque
 and
body
. Multimatic then passed the torch over to braking specialist
Brembo
 who stuck a pair of
380mm diameter carbon ceramic racing disc brakes
 upfront with a pair of
360mm rotors at the rear
.
Planting the wheels to the ground is derived from an
anti-dive geometry push rod suspension setup
. Multimatic lent a hand with the DSSV or
Dynamic Suspension Spool Valve adjustable dampers and anti-roll bars
. The Vulcan also comes equipped with
variable traction control
and an
 adjustable anti-lock brake system.
Only
24
 prime examples will be built and tucked away safely by wealthy aspiring owners. Its cost? A purported sum of almost
 1.5 million Pounds
 or RM8.9 million at press time.
IMAGE GALLERY


Video: Mercedes-Benz C200 & C300 facelift, Things You Need To Know

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has just introduced the facelifted C-Class in the form of three different models – the C43 AMG 4MATIC, the
C300 AMG Line and the C200 Avantgarde Line
 and here’s a quick walk-through on what’s new with the latter two.
The new C200 Avantgarde is fitted with a new 1.5-litre turbocharged engine and unlike before, the new C300 AMG Line now gets the 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission and the AIRMATIC suspension along with a bump in horsepower.
Find out what are the other new additions to one of the most successful models for Mercedes-Benz Malaysia and check out how the new Mercedes-AMG C43 4MATIC differs from the pre-facelift model
here
.


Five reasons why the Koenigsegg Regera is the one true “megacar”

The Koenigsegg Regera isn’t a strange car in the world of hyper fast sports car. Having debuted at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, this 80-unit only Swedish beast is one of the most technologically advanced car to date.
However, over the past year or so, about 3,000 tweaks have been made, and it takes the grand stage at Geneva this year by storm. At around USD 1.9 million a pop (about RM7.8 million without taxes and duties), the Regera is quite simply the beginning of the
megacar
era.

Its closest rival is none other than the
Bugatti Chiron
, but here are five reasons why the Regera deserves to be in the running as the one true megacar of the world.
i. It makes the Bugatti Chiron look dull
The Chiron may have taken center stage this year at Geneva, but it could easily pass off as the Veyron’s facelift. It is undoubtedly an engineering marvel in its own right, but we can’t help feeling as though Bugatti played it safe in the aesthetics department.
Things are less apparent at Koenigsegg with the Regera. This megacar looks exactly like the HotWheels toy you’ve always dreamed of; twin radical scissors doors and a hood that could put flamboyant Lamborghinis to shame. It’s got looks to kill, but what’s more impressive is the integration of “
Autoskin
” which allows the car’s doors, front and rear clamshells to be opened via a key knob. The company uses lightweight, tiny hydraulic tubing and small actuators to replace traditional struts and hinges.

Another unique feature is the Regera’s headlights – they come with a pair of funky looking “Constellation DRLs”, but Christian von Koenigsegg prefers the term “Koenigsegg Cool”. How does this compare to the Chiron’s multiple squared LED DRLs? Well, we’ll let you be the judge of that.
ii. The powertrain is bonkers
Unlike the Chiron, the Regera comes with a self-developed
5.0-litre twin turbocharged V8
 engine, the same block shared with the Agera and Agera R. There’s also three separate electric motors driving the crankshaft. The
4.5kWh battery pack
 is located in the center body tunnel that can be charged either internally or via a charging port at the back.
All these make for a combined output of
1,500 hp
 and
2,000 Nm
 of tyre-obliterating torque! It’s a tad slower in the century sprint compared to the Chiron’s
2.5-second
 benchmark (Regera dusts that in
2.8 seconds
), but also remember that the Regera’s engine is a full
3.0-litre smaller
 and has half the Bug’s W16 cylinder count. That said, the Regera outperforms the Chiron in the
0 to 298km/h
 sprint, getting there in
10.9 seconds
 compared to the Chiron’s 13.5 seconds. Not bad at all for an in-house motor!
iii. It has no gearbox!
Remember the three electric motors mentioned above? The electric motors now take up the responsibilities as a power generator, starter motor and a torque assist for the V8 engine. In other words, it completely replaces a conventional gearbox! The system, known as
Koenigsegg Direct Drive System
, works via a locking hydraulic coupling which controls the engine’s power through a clutch-slip mechanism.
What they do is convert torque at medium to high speeds during fast acceleration, allowing the engine to gain revs and power, thereby providing the sensation of an actual downshift (plus the blip which we all love).
Shift paddles remain on either side of the steering wheel, though the left paddle is used to enhance regenerative braking which juices up the battery pack. The right paddle is used to activate the hydraulic coupling’s ‘downshift’ operation. Koenigsegg claims their path in electric vehicle technology eliminates the mass and drivetrain losses of a transmission, but it’s probably nowhere near the ideal transmission for an everyday car.
iv. Impressive lightweight body
The combination of its carbon fibre monocoque and a lightweight battery pack means the Regera’s overall weight down to
1,590kg
, or approximately 400kg lighter than the porky Chiron. For the record, the Chiron’s monocoque is also made of carbon fibre, but the extra weight comes mainly from the powertrain.
v. It’s not a stripped-down race car
Thankfully, Koenigsegg had no intentions of making the Regera a full-blown track machine, although that will likely come as the Regera S or Regera R. Instead, Koenigsegg markets the car as being “a fusion of luxury, comfort and race car performance”. Interior goodies for the Regera are soft-closing doors (like your Toyota Alphard), leather interior with six-way electronic adjustable seats, climate control, leather carpets, power folding mirrors and infotainment system which supports Apple CarPlay.
So there you have it, folks. Just 80 of the Regera will ever be built, so chances of you owning one won’t be nearly as high as the 500-unit Chiron. Now, dear readers, which of the two is your preferred dream car?
IMAGE GALLERY


Frontliners in Philipines have “saved” over RM19 million in toll charges

In showing appreciation to the frontliners who have literally been at the front lines of the Covid-19 battle, San Miguel Corporation (SMC) has been waiving toll charges for these noble souls since March last year.
The company which oversees multiple tolls in South Luzon, La Union and Tarlac to name a few, recently announced that as of early June 2021, the “free toll programme” has
waived a total of 230.7 million pesos
 (approximately RM19 million).
The initiative is said to have
benefitted more than 10,000 front liners
 including doctors, nurses and laboratory technicians living in Metro Manila and its nearby municipals.
Meanwhile in Malaysia, the toll hike deferment is set to cost our government over RM2.25 billion this year. Read about it here!
“More than one year has passed and the frontliners have accomplished so much in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic. With most of them now vaccinated, we are honored to have stayed with them and supported them all this time, through this free toll gesture” said SMC president Ramon S. Ang.
So far, SMC has been the only toll operator to continue implementing the free toll initiative for front liners. The company also recently announced that it has spent one billion pesos (approx. RM85 million) to vaccinate around 70,000 of its workforce nationwide for free.
Another one billion pesos was spent on test kits, personal protective equipment (PPE) and over a million litres of alcohol solution for hospitals around the country.
Source:
Toll Regulatory Board


The Hennessey Venom F5 is here, with a purportedly over 500 km/h top speed

Three years after it was
first teased
, Hennessey has now finally unveiled the Venom F5 in the flesh. Only 24 units of this ultra-exclusive hypercar will ever be made, priced at USD2.1 million (MYR8.52 million) each, and they will all be uniquely customised to the owner’s specifications.
Powering this speed monster is an in-house built 6.6-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, affectionately named “Fury” by Hennessey, and is paired to a seven-speed single-clutch semi-automatic gearbox. Power output is rated at an eye-watering
1,817 hp
 and
1,617 Nm
of torque at full blast. Yowza.

The figures sound even more impressive when you realise that the entire car weighs just
1,360 kg
, thanks to its various weight-saving measures such as the use of an ultra-lightweight carbon fibre monocoque. Even the entire engine weighs just 280 kg. As a result, the Hennessey Venom F5 accelerates from 0-100 km/h in less than 2.6 seconds, and smashes the 200 km/h point in 4.7 seconds.
Hennessey is so confident in the performance of the Venom F5 that it will be proving its top speed “in excess of 500 km/h” with an independently verified top speed run next year. For full transparency, Hennessey will also be making available the GPS data and uninterrupted video footage for the
public to inspect
.
The all-American company also says that its new hypercar isn’t just good at straight-line speed. The Hennessey Venom F5 rides on double wishbone suspension with Penske coil-over dampers, and is personally tuned by the company’s in-house dynamics guru – US racing driver John ‘Heinrocket’ Heinricy.
Hennessey founder and CEO John Hennessey has also provided input in “every aspect of the car’s specification, design and development”. “Our customers love speed, so we’re fired-up to push the boundaries of what’s possible to attempt the world’s fastest production car record, but the Venom F5 is about more than just speed and power,” said Hennessey.
“This car will handle superbly, quality is exceptional, there are more than 3,000 bespoke parts, materials are exquisite, everything is a fitting tribute to 30 years of the Hennessey brand.”
Deliveries for the Hennessey Venom F5 will begin next year, just in time for the company’s 30-year anniversary.
GALLERY


Top 10 Best Interiors of 2016: Audi TT, BMW 7-Series and Honda Civic!

The 2016 Wards awards for the best interior design have been announced, and most of them are from luxury brands. Out of the 10, just two are cars from mainstream brands, which signify a rapid product development from premium carmakers. There were 47 cars shortlisted for this award (based on US market), so lets see who took top honours.
Audi TTS
Coming out on top is the
Audi TTS
. The judges were moved with the brilliant 12.3-inch
Audi Virtual Cockpit
 and surgically detailed cabin finishing.
BMW G11 7-Series
Behind the TTS is another German product, the
BMW 7-Series
. Bimmers don’t generally stand out for its interiors, but the latest G11 7-Series is a glaring exception. The feature laden saloon includes innovative air gesture control, wireless phone charging, massaging seats and the ambient-lit speakers for the Bower & Wilkins sound system.
2016 Honda Civic
There are only two mainstream cars in this Top 10 list, and one to surprise us all is the
tenth-generation Honda Civic
 which finished in sixth place. It’s the cheapest car in the list, but its modern exterior trickles into the cabin, a redemption over the uninspiring and easily forgotten ninth-gen Civic. The other mainstream car in the top ten is the Nissan Maxima, which we don’t get in Malaysia.
Other cars that available in Malaysia apart from the top two are the edgy
Lexus RX
 (seventh place),
Mercedes-Benz GLC
 (8th place) and taking tenth is the excellent
Volvo XC90
.
To round up, here are the top ten winners of this year’s best interior awards.
Audi TTS
BMW 7-Series
Cadillac XT5
Chevrolet Camaro
Chrysler
 Pacifica
Honda
 Civic
Lexus RX
Mercedes-Benz GLC
Nissan
 Maxima
Volvo XC90
[Source:
Wards Auto
]


Video: 2019 Proton Saga Facelift, 5 Things

With the launch of the
2019 Proton Saga Facelift
, Proton’s core models, the
Persona
,
Iriz
,
Exora
 and Saga – conveniently abbreviated to PIES – are now updated to maintain a competitive edge in their respective segment.

The Saga gains various styling upgrades, new features and most importantly a new 4-speed torque converter automatic that replaces the CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). The new gearbox is mated to the same 1.3-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder VVT petrol engine pushing out
95 hp
 and
120 Nm
 of torque.
What’s even more
impressive is that despite the increased in value (features, refinement and quality),
the 2019 Saga range is more affordable with prices dipping under the magic
RM40,000 mark.


All-new Peugeot 2008 in Thailand shows-off what we’ll be getting soon!

[Update 1:42 PM: Stellantis has announced that the all-new Peugeot 2008 has officially rolled off the assembly plant in Gurun, Kedah]
Despite being
name-dropped by Berjaya Auto Alliance
almost a year ago, it turns out Thailand actually shot first with the launch of the all-new Peugeot 2008, ahead of the Thai Motor Expo.
The new compact SUV is offered in a single Allure variant in the Land of Smiles, priced at THB1,189,000 (approx. RM149k) and will be fully imported from Stellantis’ Gurun assembly plant here in Malaysia.
Underneath the bonnet, you’ll find the familiar 1.2-litre PureTech turbocharged three-cylinder engine as seen on the
Peugeot 208
 here in Malaysia.
However, compared to the 208’s 1.2-litre mill, the engine here is now slightly uprated to make
 130 hp
 and
230 Nm
 (18 hp and 15 Nm more than before, middle option of three available state of tune globally), and power is sent to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic gearbox as standard.
RELATED: 2021 Peugeot 3008 facelift launched in Malaysia, one variant from RM162k!
Design wise, the Peugeot 2008 is essentially a jacked-up 208, and thus share many of the hatchback’s design cues such as the prominent claw-style LED front and rear lamps, lion fangs daytime-running light signatures, and even the two-tone paintwork.
It’s now built on Peugeot’s new Common Modular Platform (CMP), which has also increased the overal vehicle length by some 14 cm over its predecessor. Although, boot space remains at 360 litres, which means there should be quite a significant increase in interior space instead.
In terms of equipment, the Peugeot 2008 Allure in Thailand comes as standard with full-LED headlights and tail lights, 17-inch two-tone alloy wheels, a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 10-inch digital instrument cluster display, automatic climate control, leather upholstery, and a reverse camera.
The all-new 2008 in Thailand is also one of the first Peugeot model in the entire ASEAN region to feature advanced driver assistance features, although admittedly still pretty rudimentary. The advanced safety suite consists of forward collision warning and braking, lane keeping assist, traffic sign recognition, blind spot monitoring, and driver attention warning.
Stellantis says that the Peugeot 2008 assembled here in Malaysia has undergone 200,000 km of specific endurance and quality testing in our unique climate and environment conditions.
The manufacturing team in Malaysia also used dynamic online tools and methodologies, including collaborating with other teams in China and Europe to meet production timelines while maintaining the company’s global manufacturing and quality standards.
“What we’ve been able to achieve at the Gurun plant in Malaysia over the past few months is a great achievement, and we are now focused on continuing the momentum to keep up with the increased customer demand for locally-manufactured Peugeot vehicles in the region,” said Stellantis ASEAN senior vice president, Christophe Musy.
With the all-new Peugeot 2008 now launched in Thailand, it’s only a matter of time that the compact SUV will make its debut here in Malaysia too – especially seeing that we got the
3008
 and
 5008
 one month after they were introduced in our neighbouring country too.
We expect the specifications of our Malaysian model to mirror Thailand’s 2008, too; are the standard equipment enough to sway you over to the French brand? Let us know in the comments below!


UMW Toyota sales jumped 120% year-on-year in May 2021 despite MCO

Despite the implementation of the
movement control order (MCO)
 in several states, UMW Toyota Motor still managed to deliver a total of
7,595 units
 during the month of May 2021. The figure represents a 120% jump over the same period last year, which was impacted by MCO 1.0.
UMW Toyota says that the sharp increase in sales performance year-on-year is driven mainly by the new models that the company has introduced in recent months. In particular, the new Toyota
Vios
,
Yaris
, and
Hilux
cumulatively contributed 78% of the figure in May.
The company also attributes the sales performance to the festive campaigns during the Hari Raya period, as well as the sales tax exemptions, which has now been
extended until the end of 2021
.
How does the “sportier” Toyota Vios GR Sport drives? Check out our review here!
For the first five months of the year, UMW Toyota managed to sell a total of 34,026 vehicles, a significantly higher figure than the 14,052 units registered in the corresponding period of 2020, putting it on track to achieve its sales target of 62,000 units in 2021.
The Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8G gets a
tax saving of more than RM4,000
, thanks to the recently-extended SST exemptions period
UMW Toyota’s sister company within UMW Holdings, Perodua, also achieved a
strong sales performance in the past month
. UMW Holdings President and Group CEO, Dato’ Ahmad Fuaad Kenali said, “Demand for UMWT and Perodua vehicles remains strong, with both marques continuing to register healthy sales.
“However, the semiconductor chips shortage has impacted Perodua’s production, and it is exploring various means to overcome this problem. Both UMWT and Perodua have a healthy level of outstanding bookings that can be fulfilled once the chips problem is resolved.”
The gorgeous
all-new Toyota Harrier
is now available in Malaysia.
Dato’ Fuaad further added, “UMW expects the automotive sales momentum will continue despite the extended MCO 3.0 especially with the extension of the sales tax exemption to 31 December 2021.”
Since June 1, the government has imposed a
full movement control order (FMCO) nationwide
 in an attempt to contain the recent spread of the virus. During the FMCO period, all automotive manufacturing activities and showrooms are not allowed to operate. Phase 1 of the FMCO is expected to end on the 28th of June, pending on situational data.
However, service centres are allowed to operate during the FMCO period, albeit at a reduced level of operations with strict SOP guidelines. UMW Toyota advices its customers to make an appointment prior to sending their cars for service during this period.


Chery Omoda 5, Tiggo 8 Pro set for Malaysia launch on July 6

It’s been more than a year since Chery first announced its intention to re-enter the Malaysian market, but we now finally have a firm date. The Chinese carmaker has announced via its Facebook its official “brand launch” for Malaysia, set for
July 6
, where the
Chery Omoda 5
 and
Tiggo 8 Pro
 will also be introduced alongside.
The Chery Omoda 5 and Tiggo 8 Pro are part of the company’s “Phase One” plans for the brand here in Malaysia – the former is a B-segment crossover, while the latter a D-segment seven-seater SUV. As a sign of Chery’s commitment towards the Malaysian market, both models are also going to be locally assembled from the get go.
The carmaker recently announced its
partnership agreement with Inokom
, and production has since begun this month.
RELATED:
Chery to produce 30,000 cars annually in Malaysia CKD plant
Setting its sights straight for the Proton X50, Honda HR-V, and Toyota Corolla Cross, the Chery Omoda 5 stands out from the crowded market with its attractive styling and extensive technology package.
Here in Malaysia, the Chery Omoda 5 will be offered with a single powertrain option at launch, consisting of a 1.6-litre turbocharged inline-four engine that makes
147 hp
 and
230 Nm
. The company is also planning to introduce the
fully electric variant of the Omoda 5
in Malaysia in the future, though the timeline for that will depend on the right-hand drive development of the model.
As for the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro, the model that will be launched here in Malaysia next month will be based on the new Tiggo 8 Pro Max in China, with revised styling both inside and out, alongside a more extensive kit list than what was
originally previewed in Malaysia last year
.
Underneath the bonnet of the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro in Malaysia will be a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder mill making
250 hp
 and
390 Nm
 of torque, with power sent to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The company is also planning to unveil a
 plug-in hybrid variant
 for the seven-seater SUV later this year.
The Chinese carmaker has announced that its models here in Malaysia will be covered by a
10-year, 1,000,000 km warranty
 for their powertrain components, to ease any reliability concerns for its cars.
Additionally, Chery Malaysia has also promised a
“user-centric” aftersales network
 here on our shores, with over 70 outlets planned nationwide. At launch, the company already expects “no fewer than 30” up and running across the country.
ALSO READ:
 Chery Omoda 5 EV specs revealed, 450km range – BYD Atto 3 rival?


Neta U EV SUV, Neta S electric sedan set for Malaysia launch within next two years

You may have heard that the Neta V, currently the
most affordable EV here in Malaysia
, recently received a warm welcome into the country with over
100 bookings collected over one weekend
. But the budget-oriented electric crossover is far from Neta’s only plans here in Malaysia.
As announced during the brand launch at the recent
Malaysia Autoshow 2023
, the Chinese carmaker intends to launch two more EVs here in Malaysia within the next two years – the Neta U SUV by the
 second quarter of 2024
, and the Neta S fastback sedan by
Q1 2025
.
In addition, the company’s custodian here in Malaysia, Intro Synergy, will also be investing RM300 million over the next few years to develop the brand’s sales and aftersales network, alongside a manufacturing plant for local assembly.
READ MORE:
Neta V makes Malaysia debut – budget-oriented compact EV SUV from RM99,800
The Neta U is a fully-electric compact crossover, coming in about the size of the Toyota Corolla Cross. In its home country China, the Neta U is available in a variety of powertrain options, offering a driving range of up to
500 km (NEDC)
, and outputs up to
150 kW (204 hp)
 and
310 Nm
.
With the latest Neta U-II update that was launched in 2022, the compact electric crossover also boasts a SAE Level 2.5 semi-autonomous driving capability, thanks to an upgraded range of on-board sensors.
The Neta S, meanwhile, takes the form of a fastback sedan, not unlike the BMW i4 – although, its dimensions puts it closer in segment to the Tesla Model S. Thanks to its slippery shape, the Neta S boasts a drag coefficient of just 0.216 Cd.
Paired to a 91 kWh battery pack, the Neta S is able to travel
 up to 715 km
 from a single charge, based on the CLTC test standard. As for performance, the rear-wheel drive variant of the S puts out
170 kW (231 hp)
 and
310 Nm
, while the all-wheel drive model essentially doubles that with an extra identical motor on the front axle.
With multiple other companies, including
Bermaz Auto
, reportedly interested in representing another Chinese EV brand here in Malaysia, it seems that the EV market here is about to properly heat up. Now, all that’s left is to see if these two upcoming EVs will follow the Neta V’s pricing strategy…
GALLERY
Neta S
Neta V


Honda reveals name of first electric SUV – Prologue

Honda has announced the name of its first electric vehicle – the “Prologue”. It’s a taste of what’s to come as the company embarks on its vision of selling 100% zero-emission vehicles in North America by 2040.
New Civic sedan
New Civic hatchback
The Prologue is expected to arrive in the US by early 2024, along with an all-electric Acura SUV, with more specific details to come in the following months.
So far, Honda has only revealed that the Prologue, along with the Acura, will be
built on General Motor’s EV platform
 and the company’s own Ultium batteries, as per Honda’s strategic partnership with General Motors. It’s reported that Honda will develop the interior and exterior of the Prologue.
Honda also plans to launch a
new series of EV models between 2025 to 2030
 which will be based on the company’s new e:Architecture. The modular EV platform can be used for various vehicle body types.
The Honda e electric hatchback.
In April this year, Honda Global CEO, Toshihiro Mibe, announced a carbon-neutral goal for the company’s products and corporate activities by 2050, including electrified vehicle sales targets.
By 2030, the company is targeting 40% of vehicles to be made up of electric and fuel cell vehicles. The figure is expected to double to 80% by 2035 and subsequent by 2040, 100% of vehicles sold by Honda will be electric.


Hyundai Veloster 1.6L Turbo to make Malaysian debut on April 17th, may cost over RM150k

Hyundai Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) has just revealed the official launching date of the
Veloster 1.6L Turbo
, and it will take place in mid-April – on the
17th
 to be exact. The
order books
 for this
RM150k
 (current estimated price) hot hatch were opened since late last month, and we managed to
catch it in person
 at the recently concluded Bangkok International Motor Show.
QUICK FACTS
Name
2015 Hyundai Veloster Turbo
Engine
1,591cc; Gamma T-GDi petrol
Transmission
7-speed dual clutch transmission
Max Power
184 hp @ 5,500 rpm
Max Torque
265 Nm @ 1,500 to 4,500 rpm
0 – 100 km/h; Top Speed
Under 8 seconds; 220 km/h
Price (OTR
without
 insurance)
from RM150,000
 (including GST)

Here are some quick bits to get your hearts racing. The Veloster, as you would have known by now, will be fitted with a
1.6-litre Gamma T-GDi
 petrol engine making
184 horsepower
 at 5,500 rpm and
265 Nm
 of torque from 1,500 to 4,500 rpm. Power is sent to the
front wheels
 via an in-house developed
seven-speed dual clutch automatic
 transmission. Hyundai claims that its hot hatch will sprint from
0 t0 100 km/h in under 8
 seconds and manages a top speed of
220 km/h
.

It’ll be available in a limited edition
Matte Grey
 colour, and like other Hyundai models, it will come with a
five-year or 300,000km warranty
 programme. So what’s your pick going to be like? The
Fiesta ST
, Polo GTI, 208 GTI, Clio RS or a new breed of force-fed Korean hatchling?
[divider]
IMAGE GALLERY
Hyundai Veloster 1.6L Turbo at the 2015 BIMS


New Shell Advance Ultra with PurePlus Technology introduced, made of Natural Gas

In conjunction with the
2014 Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix (MotoGP)
 held over this weekend,
Shell Malaysia
 held a special preview of its most advanced motorcycle oil to date – the
Shell Advance Ultra
 with
PurePlus Technology
.

What makes this the
most advanced
 motorcycle oil lies in the methods in which it is processed. The Shell PurePlus Technology is the result of a
40-year research programme
 that
converts natural gas
 into
crystal-clear base oil
 with almost
zero impurities
 such as those found in crude oil processes. This revolutionary process is called
gas-to-liquid (GTL)
 process, and is produced at the Pearl GTL plant in Qatar.
Leo Kin Mun demonstrating the gas-to-liquid process
Shell Malaysia’s Technology Manager for Shell Advanced, Mr Leo Kin Mun explained, “The GTL base oil is
as clear as water
 in its purest state. When it goes on sale beginning January next year, the oil will be
yellowish-gold
 in colour because of the additives we put into the oil. GTL base oil gives
improved
 and
more consistent viscosity
 as operating temperatures increase. It
improves engine performance
 on the whole,
enhancing friction
 and
volatility performance
 compared to traditional crude-oil based engine oils.”
When asked if the engine oil is
competition ready
, Shell indicated that their
riders
 for the
2015 season
 of the
Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup
 will be using the Shell Advance Ultra oil in their race bikes. The move to introduce this high-grade engine oil is also to cater to the
evident
 and
rising growth
 of
big capacity bikes
 in the country.
Shell Trading Malaysia’s Managing Director, Tuan Haji Azman Ismail
Shell recently conducted a
trial run
 on several big-engine bikes whose riders
traveled across Malaysia
 on a combination of
trunk roads
,
hilly terrains
 and
highways
. This is to put the new synthetic oil to real world tests and get initial reactions from these riders. According to Shell, about 77 percent of the riders experienced
smoother ride
 and
more linear power

delivery
 after running on the
synthetic oil
 and
Shell V-Power 97
.
The Shell Avance Ultra with PurePlus Technology will be sold to the public from as early as
January next year
, with
two viscosity grades
 to choose from:
10W-40
 and
15W-50
. Both oils are
100 percent fully synthetic
.

IMAGE GALLERY


New Mercedes-Benz GLC unveiled, GLK successor now better in every way [+Video]

The
Mercedes-Benz GLC
 has officially been
revealed to the world
 (by supermodel
Petra Nemcova
, no less), and this time it’s made for the world instead of being limited only to the left-hand drive markets like its predecessor, the GLK.
Four variants are introduced this time around, and all of them feature the brand’s
4Matic all-wheel drive system
 that receives power from a
nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic
 transmission; except one – the GLC 350e variant which comes with a seven-speed 7G-Tronic box.
EXTERIOR
Previewed a couple of months ago in the form of
Concept GLC Coupé
 and
spied earlier
 wearing a thin disguise, we can see that the GLC dons a jacked-up W205 C-Class looks, because it is based on the same platform as the C-Class after all.

At
4,656 mm long
,
1,890 mm wide
, and
1,639 mm tall
, it’s bigger than the GLK in every way, and even the
wheelbase
 has been significantly stretched from 2,755 mm to
2,873 mm
.
Buyers will be given the option to choose from three trims:
Exclusive
line,
AMG
 line, and
Off-Road
line; but every GLC will come with a huge three-pointed star right smack in the twin-louvred grille. The
AMG line
 gets a set of
19-inch wheels
 (an inch up from the other two trims) to complement the
AMG bumpers
, while the
Off-Road line
 is fitted with
unique bumpers
 optimised for steep climbing angles as well as
chrome-plated bumper guards
.
INTERIOR
Thanks to the
increased dimensions
, occupants get
more room
 on the inside compared to the GLK.
Cargo space
 has also been boosted by 80 litres to
550 litres
, and the rear seats back rests now split 40:20:40.
The cabin architecture follows the
W205 C-Class
, with the familiar dashboard and the lot. Choose the
Exclusive line
 and you’ll get a combination
Artico leather and fabric upholstery
 complemented by
high gloss wood trim. Bu
t if you opt for the
AMG line
, you’ll receive a mix of
Artico leather and Dinamica microfibre upholstery
, a sportier
AMG flat bottom steering wheel
, aluminium trim inserts, piano black center console, as well as a set of
AMG sports pedals
.
PERFORMANCE
At launch there will be four variants of the GLC, two petrol and two diesel. The diesel couple are the
GLC 220d 4MATIC
 and the
GLC 250d 4MATIC
. Both are powered by the same diesel lump but the former gives out
170 hp
 and
400 Nm
 while the latter churns out
204 hp
 and
500 Nm
. Yes, 500 Nm of torque!

If you don’t fancy sharing the fuel pump with the lorries, there’s the
GLC 250 4MATIC
 with
211 hp
 and
 350 Nm
, as well as the
GLC 350e 4MATIC
 plug-in hybrid that combines a 211 hp petrol engine with a 116 hp electric motor and
560 Nm
 of total torque.
SAFETY
Of course the GLC comes with airbags. There’s the usual front airbags as well as side airbags, and there are airbags on the pillars too. Additionally, there are optional airbag for the driver’s knees and side airbags for the two outer rear passengers.
On top of that, the GLC is equipped with a host of driving assistance. Fitted as standard are the
Attention Assist
 or an ESP® system with
Dynamic Cornering Assist
, Crosswind Assist, Headlamp Assist, and
Collision Prevention Assist Plus
. Buyers then can add on more driving assistant systems such as Active Lane Keeping Assist and
PRE-SAFE® PLUS
, and
Distronic Plus
with Steering Assist and Stop&Go Pilot from the mile-long options list.
WHAT ELSE?
Want more? Mercedes offers the
Night package
 with the GLC. No, it’s not a 3 days 2 nights holiday package, but rather an exterior enhancing kit for the Exclusive and AMG lines which consist of
matte black roof rails
,
tinted rear windows
,
glossy black finish
 on side mirror housings, side window trims, and bumper guards; and a choice of either 19-inch or 20-inch wheels.
Another package is called the
Off-Road Engineering package
. It features up to
five off-road driving programs
, a dynamic real-time COMAND display,
Downhill Speed Regulation
 (DSR) as well as
raising the GLC by up to 50 mm
.
Sales of the GLC will start this
November
, but give or take a few months before it lands on our shores and we’re looking at an
early-2016
 Malaysian debut for the GLC. Now that we’ve seen the GLC in its full glory, chances are you’re more interested to see the production version of the GLC Coupé, no?
IMAGE GALLERY


Ferrari to unveil 15 new models by 2026, including first EV and LaFerrari successor

Ferrari has just laid out its bold new strategic plan for the next four years during its Capital Markets Day last night, and there are quite a few things to get excited about. Chiefly, the Italian supercar maker is planning to introduce 15 (yes, fifteen) new models by 2026, including its first-ever fully-electric (EV) model, and the successor to the
LaFerrari hypercar
.
The first of the 15 models to be announced will be the
 Purosangue SUV
, which is set to make its global debut in September this year. As before, Ferrari is still doing all it can to convince you it’s a “real Ferrari”; the name Purosangue means “thoroughbred” in Italian, and it’ll even come with a
 new V12 engine underneath its bonnet
.
Despite that though, Ferrari says that the Purosangue will only account for a maximum of 20% of its sales throughout its lifecycle, presumably by limiting shipments. That’s a far cry from its chief rival
Lamborghini Urus
, which just became the brand’s
 best-selling model of all time
. So, as it turns out, Ferrari themselves aren’t too convinced just yet.
Moving onto the EV, the brand’s first fully-electric model will be launched some time in 2025. Information on the model is as good as zero now, but the marque says that it’ll also be a “true Ferrari”, with the entire powertrain – including battery modules – “designed, handcrafted, and assembled in Maranello”, promising “a unique driving experience […] derived from racing solutions”.
A new assembly line built specifically for its electrified vehicles, and by 2026, Ferrari says its product range will be made up of 40% pure internal combustion engine (ICE) cars, with the remaining 60% being a mix of hybrid and full electric, rising to 20% ICE, 40% hybrid, and 40% full electric by 2030.
As for the highly-awaited successor to the LaFerrari halo hypercar, Ferrari says that it’ll feature technologies learned from its racing efforts in
Formula 1
 and 24 Hours of Le Mans – the latter represented by the upcoming LMH race car – all but confirming that it’ll feature electrification of some sort.
The upcoming flagship hypercar, alongside the
 Icona line of supercars
, will be the brand’s rarest offerings, accounting for less than 5% of total volume. The Special Series meanwhile, consisting of models like the
Ferrari 812 Competizione
 and Competizione Aperta, will make up about 10% of total production.
The rest will be made up by the “range” models, covering the series-production V6 (
296 GTB
/
GTS
), V8 (
Roma
/
Portofino
), and V12 (812 replacement) cars.
GALLERY


Honda City Hatchback hybrid now in Thailand, just RM3k cheaper than a Civic 1.8

The line-up of the Honda City has finally completed in the Kingdom of Thailand. Originally just the sedan body type, the latest generation ‘GN’ Honda City is also now available in
a hatchback
.
Before the hatch arrived, the City models in Thailand were only offered with one powertrain – a newly developed turbocharged
1.0-litre three-cylinder engine
 paired with a CVT. The sedan received its hybrid power unit late last year and now, the unique dual-motor and petrol engine setup is available on the hatchback model as well.
On the exterior, the City Hatchback e:Hev is only available in the RS trim, featuring sportier bumper profiles and gloss black highlights on the side mirrors, front grille, rear spoiler, and 16-inch rims.
Singapore gets the cooler new Honda Jazz/Fit that’s also for Japan and Europe. Read about it here!
The City Hatchback e:Hev is available with the special Brilliant Sporty Blue paintwork that was introduced with the facelift Civic in late 2018.
Key exterior features include automatic on/off LED headlamps with auto high-beam function, DRLs, remote engine start, walk-away auto door lock, rear disc brakes with electronic parking brake with auto-hold function and LED taillamps with L-lighting signature.
Under the bonnet is the latest Sport Hybrid i-MMD power unit consisting of a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated Atkinson-cycle engine and paired with two electric motor-generators. The combined system output is
109 hp
 and
253 Nm of torque
. In this unique setup, the
engine functions as a generator
to the lithium-ion battery and only connects to the front wheels at speeds above 80 km/h.
At low speeds, the City Hatchback e:Hev
drives like an EV
 as the motors will provide propulsion. While this setup sounds like a step up in fuel reduction, the consumption is rated at
3.7 litres per 100 km
; just 0.6 litres lower than the turbocharged 1.0-litre triple.
Similar to the City e:Hev available in Malaysia, drivers can adjust the brake regeneration strength via steering wheel paddles.
The spirit of ‘warm hatch’ lives on in Indonesia in the City hatchback DOHC iVTEC with 6MT!
Inside, the users will find the familiar RS items such as red-on-black mixed material front seats, metallic foot pedals, automatic air-conditioning with rear duct, 8-speaker audio system with an 8-inch infotainment system, ULTRA folding rear seats and a variant-exclusive hybrid instrument cluster with a seven-inch TFT screen.
Like the City sedan e:Hev, the hatchback e:Hev variant will also come fitted with the Honda Sensing suite. The advanced driving assistance suite encompasses autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist system and lane departure warning and prevention.
Priced at
THB849,000
 (approx. RM113,200), the hybrid powertrain commands a THB100,000 (approx. RM13,300) premium over

the regular RS variant fitted with a turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine.
The City Hatchback e:Hev RS is also THB10,000 (RM1,330) pricier than the City sedan e:Hev RS sibling, making the model
the highest priced variant in the total Honda City line-up
. The next vehicle up the price ladder is the entry Honda Civic 1.8 at THB874,000 (RM116,500), a similar pattern seen with the City Hybrid and Civic 1.8 in Malaysia.

However, unlike Malaysia, where the
Honda City-Jazz
 and
Toyota Vios-Yaris
 see the
hatchback models priced cheaper
, the opposite is practised in the Kingdom.
In Malaysia, the City RS e:Hev sedan is
priced at RM105,951
. While the City hatchback isn’t available in Malaysia yet, the Honda Jazz is priced in a range from RM72,512 to RM84,956, with the short-lived Jazz Hybrid available from RM75,000.
GALLERY
Honda City Hatchback e:Hev RS
Honda City Hatchback 1.0 VTEC Turbo


Geely Xingyao (FX11) unveiled in China – could this be the next-gen Proton X70?

Geely has just unveiled the Xingyao (FX11) in China, coming in the form of a new C-segment-sized SUV that will reportedly serve as the replacement to the ageing Boyue in its home domestic market. The Boyue also serves as the base model for the
Proton X70
here in Malaysia, which means the new FX11 could eventually be used for the next-gen X70, when the model is due a refresh here on our shores!
In terms of styling, the Xingyao adopts Geely’s all-new design language that first made its debut on the
Vision Starburst concept
. The front is characterised by a new massive grille, which pushes all other design elements towards the edges, including the main headlights which are integrated neatly into the grille design.
The entire front fascia is framed between the instantly recognisable inverted L-shaped daytime-running light signatures, which are set deep within the front bumpers. A heavily-contoured, body-coloured trim serves as a nice contrast against the darkened grille, with the angular panels reminding us of the
BMW iX Sport
, lending credence to its strong, muscular stance. It’s definitely a striking design, to say the least.
VIDEO: 2022 Proton X70 with a 1.5L TGDi engine, is it enough? – AutoVlogs
The rear fascia, meanwhile, sports a minimalist yet recognisable design, thanks to the generous use of sharp lines and angular cues. The resemblance to the Vision Starburst is immediately obvious, with the highlight here once again being the lighting fixture, which gets a full-width treatment with vertical elements bookending both ends.
Technical information of the Geely Xingyao hasn’t been released by the company just yet, but Chinese media outlets reported that it’ll be available with a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four petrol engine taken from the
Xingyue L
, alongside a range of hybrid powertrain offerings, as denoted by the Hi.X branding on the SUV’s initial teaser image.
The FX11 is built on the latest iteration of Geely’s Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) platform, dubbed the ‘CMA1.5’. The exact changes aren’t announced just yet, but media reports also suggest that it’ll feature the GEEA 2.0 computing platform, which will allow for a SAE level 2 autonomous driving capability.
The Geely Xingyao will make its public debut next month at the Chengdu Auto Show, so keep your eyes peeled!
[Source/images:
 CarNewsChina.com
]


Mercedes-Benz C-Class is the best selling premium car in Britain – 41,121 units sold!

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class model, according to
AutoCar UK
, is the top selling premium car in Britain. A total of 41,121 units have been sold in the country alone, numbers which are rare for any premium makes to achieve.
What’s rarer is that the C-Class is ranked ninth out of 10 most popular cars in Britain, followed closely by the
Audi A3
 (40,817 units). Prices for the four-door C-Class begin at about £30,000 for the base SE spec with six-speed manual and shoots all the way up to £78,000 for the C 63 S Edition 1 (Cabriolet). Between them are the Estate and Coupe variants, as well as C 43 options.
Back in Malaysia, the
W205 C-Class
 range begins with the locally assembled C 180 Avantgarde (RM229k) and stretches to the hottest
C 63 S Coupe
 which retails for RM774k. A source within Mercedes-Benz Malaysia also confirmed that the C-Class is the best selling premium car in the country as of Q3 2016.
Well done, Mercedes-Benz. Very well done indeed.


All-new Lexus GX debuts – V6 twin turbo engine, 354hp, 650Nm

Lexus has just unveiled the all-new Lexus GX to the world at a premiere in Texas. The all-new GX is set to be gradually released in different regions starting at the end of 2023.
Not available in Malaysia, the Lexus GX is positioned between the Lexus LX and RX and primarily targets the North American market. It sits on a body-on-frame structure and has always been a capable luxury off-roader. According to Lexus, over 540,000 units have been sold globally as of March 2023.
Lexus says that the all-new GX has been reimagined as “The Premium Off-Roader” and has been designed to elevate the customer experience in diverse scenarios. According to Lexus GX Chief Engineer, Koji Tsukasaki, the all-new GX is essentially like a diver’s watch in the sense that “even if its full functionality isn’t always needed, it is great to know it is always capable.”
And the all-new GX’s design certainly embodies that highly capable image. With its pulled-back front pillars, flared wings, and low belt line, the all-new GX’s design has authentic off-roader proportions. According to Lexus, the overall effect that they wanted to achieve was “the look of a car that has been cut from a solid block of metal.”
RELATED:
Lexus LBX unveiled – Mild-hybrid only, based on Yaris Cross
In Lexus’ own words, “The thick, squared-off shape of the bonnet projects toughness, but the bonnet’s low-set centre section ensures the driver has a good view of front corners, so they can manoeuvre the vehicle with confidence. With a shorter front overhang, the GX has a greater approach angle for tackling steeper slopes.”
Although a bit lower in terms of overall height in comparison to its predecessor, the all-new GX is now wider, longer, and also comes with a longer wheelbase.
RELATED:
2023 Lexus RX 350 Luxury in Malaysia – over 500 bookings received in one week
Under the hood of the all-new GX is a 3.5-litre turbocharged V6 engine that makes
354 hp
(metric) and
650 Nm
. The outgoing GX with the V8 engine makes 296 hp (metric) and 438 Nm. Paired with the new V6 engine is a 10-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission, replacing the outgoing model’s 6-speed automatic box. Lexus says that customers will appreciate the V6 engine’s quieter characteristics.
While it may be tough, slightly classic, and adventurous on the outside, the interior of the all-new Lexus GX is said to be modern and calming. Lexus says that the human-centred design approach has created a space where people can feel relaxed and secure, whatever the journey may be.
RELATED:
Lexus Malaysia opens first “eco-friendly” showroom in Klang
The Lexus GX is the latest Lexus model to adopt the Tazuna concept in which all the principal controls and information sources are positioned for use with just a small movement of the hand or eye. The horizontal instrument panel and lower belt line ensure a good all-round view so the driver has a good sense of the vehicle’s attitude and position on the road at all times. A prominent 14-inch touchscreen display gives clear and easy access to multimedia functions.
With the debut of the all-new GX, Lexus also introduces the halo version of the car which is the Lexus GX Overtrail. The GX Overtrail is equipped with exclusive 18-inch wheels, a 20 mm wider tread, black wheel arch mouldings, side under protection, and aluminium underguards. The GX Overtrail can also be specified with optional raised bumper corners.
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GALLERY


More highways see hike in toll rates, LDP, SPRINT and Penchala Link included

There’s no saying more fitting than “when it rains, it pours”. Come 12.00am of 15 October, most major highways in the Klang Valley will see a jump of toll rates from between 20 sen to RM3. Yesterday,
we reported about a dozen highways involved
 in the move, but it’s now confirmed that LDP or (Damansara-Puchong Expressway), SPRINT and Penchala Link will not be spared.
The new rates for Class 1 vehicles on the LDP is
 RM2.10
 –
up 50 sen
 from the previous RM1.60. This applies to all four plazas at
 Puchong north and south
,
Penchala
 and
 Petaling Jaya
. Class 2 vehicles will now pay RM4.20 (up RM1.00) instead of RM3.20; Class 3 vehicles’ new rate is RM6.30 (before this it was RM4.80) and taxis or Class 4 vehicle will pay an addition 30 sen at RM1.10. Buses on the other hand, which fall under the Class 5 category, will pay the same RM1.60.
Another high-traffic expressway involved is the Western KL Traffic Dispersal Link System or
SPRINT highway
. Two toll plazas are affected – Damansara and Pantai, both of which will cost
RM2.00
 and
RM2.50 for Class 1 vehicles
 with each toll up by RM1.00 respectively. Last but not least is the Penchala Link Bukit Kiara toll. It will now cost
RM3.00
 – also costing RM1.00 more for Class 1 vehicles.
Picture credits to Wikipedia


Volvo opens third and largest Certified Damage Repair Centre in Juru, Penang

Volvo Car Malaysia
 has opened the doors to its newest and largest Volvo Certified Damage Repair (VCDR) Centre. Located in Juru, Penang, the new VCDR outlet – like the other
two in Ara Damansara and Glenmarie
 – is equipped with modern and state-of-the-art systems to ensure an “end-to-end high quality body repair and paint service” for its customers.
Juru was chosen as the location for the new VCDR outlet due to its strategic location in the Northern region of Peninsular Malaysia and its proximity to major highways, the company says. With a built-up space of 40,000 square feet, the new VCDR in Juru is capable of handling up to 1,200 repair works per year.
The equipment in VCDR Juru, including the Car-O-Liner advanced chassis alignment system and PIVAB paint booth, are all specifically approved by Volvo in Sweden to be used on their vehicles. The latter is also the first of such installation within Malaysia, utilising a fully electric and computerised system to ensure eco-friendliness and quality of paintwork.
The Glasurit paints and additives used at the centre, originating from Germany, are also all water-based, which is said to be better for the environment.
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Speaking at the launch of VCDR Juru, Volvo Car Malaysia Managing Director, Charles Frump, said: “The opening of our newest and biggest Volvo Certified Damage Repair Centre facility in Juru, Penang marks our commitment to providing our customers with top-notch after sales care service.
“Our customers have always been a priority and with our third Volvo Certified Damage Repair Centre opening in less than a year, they can be assured that they are taken care off with Volvo’s international standard of care.”
The Volvo Certified Damage Repair Centre in Juru, Penang, is located at
Lot 829, Jalan Saga Jaya 3, Taman Perindustrian Saga Jaya, 13600 Perai, Penang
.
GALLERY


Official parts for R33 & R34 Skyline GT-R added to NISMO Heritage programme

If you own a Nissan Skyline GT-R from the 90s, I am incredibly jealous of you. But more than jealousy, I applaud those who managed to keep these 90s icons in running condition because finding parts for a 20-odd-year-old sportscar can be a nightmare.
In the spirit of helping these owners to keep their prized GT-R on the road for many more years to come, Nissan’s official motorsports arm has introduced the NISMO Heritage programme in 2017 to re-manufacture and resupplying
official parts for the Nissan R32 Skyline GT-R
. Now, the company has added the R33 and R34 generation GT-Rs to the programme.

A total of 62 items ranging from hoses, piston seals to exterior trims of the R33 and R34 G-TRs are available for purchase on the NISMO
website
. NISMO has also extended the range of new parts for the R32 GT-R.
NISMO is going out of their way to keep these 90s legends on the road for many more years to come, allowing future generations to appreciate Skyline GT-Rs maintained with genuine accessories.