Honda Malaysia’s website reveals the Civic facelift, launch imminent – from RM114k

Honda Malaysia is in their final stages of preparation for the launching of the hotly anticipated
Civic facelift
. A short visit to their website
revealed
 the starting price –
RM113,800
 – and a pictorial gallery.
From the pictures, it’s obvious that the front fascia has been given a slight revision, such as the more sharply sculpted bumpers, with new honeycomb grille design and chrome accent across the air intake.
Inside, the touchscreen infotainment head unit is larger at 7-inch as compared to the outgoing 6.1-inch. It now features Mirror Link function for your smartphone via a HDMI port. The website also revealed that the facelifted Civic will feature a new
colour
, that is the
Twilight Blue Metallic
.
We haven’t heard a word from Honda Malaysia with regards to the launch and its feature upgrades, but do watch this space for the latest update on this Civic.
[divider]
IMAGE GALLERY


Proton Iriz R5 Rally Car leaked online, Proton to return to world rallying?

The last Proton car to taste success on the dirt was the iconic yellow Proton Satria Neo S2000 which took top honours at the 2011 Asia Pacific Rally Championship. Since then, Proton went off the map of international rally, that is until the Proton Iriz R5 rally car was teased online.
The picture was leaked by on
Instagram
 from a Spanish rallying site, stating – through their caption – that the Iriz R5 will mark Proton’s reentry into world rallying. A few months ago, another post on social media
also hinted at the same comeback
 . Apparently, UK-based Mellors Elliot Motorsport (MEM) is now working on a new Proton rally car. It’s puzzling why this MEM-prepared Iriz ended up in Spain, though.
The R5 moniker is a clear sign that the Iriz will not be competing with the big boys from the World Rally Championship (WRC) series. The R5 category is actually a category for cars powered by a
1.6-litre turbocharged engine
, have a minimum weight of
1,230 kg
, and are
all-wheel driven
.
A typical R5 rally car consists of mainly B-segment superminis, ranging from Ford Fiesta, Skoda Fabia, Peugeot 208,  Citroen DS3 and Mitsubishi Mirage. These cars are eligible to compete in the second highest class in the WRC, the WRC2. Pricing for an R5 car is capped at
180,000 Euros
 (RM820k+ based on today’s rates).
Judging from the image, this Iriz has extended wheel arches with huge air intercoolers at the front. Everything beyond that remains a mystery, for now. Also, this Iriz rally car is unrelated to
Proton R3’s pet project
, which means the Iriz R5 is an independent effort by Proton.
Watch this space for the official unveiling of the Proton Iriz R5 Rally Car!


What do you think of this new fully electric Mercedes-Benz?

Mercedes-Benz recently previewed the new, electric version of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class, dubbed the
Concept EQA
 in motion and we can’t help but be in complete awe.
Slated for debut by 2020, it doesn’t take much to notice the similarities between the Concept EQA and the
recently unveiled A-Class hatchback
 – with slim, angular headlamps and the signature compact silhouette.
It’s been widely reported that Mercedes-Benz would be launching the EQC, an electric compact crossover next year with an EQS on the way; the S-Class equivalent from
 Mercedes-Benz’s latest EQ electric vehicle sub-brand
.
At least 10 new EQ electric vehicles are expected to be premiered by 2025, with the first model
based on the Concept EQ
 leading the charge. They will be part of the 50 electrified vehicles (including plug-in hybrids, fuel cell vehicles and vehicles with 48-volt electrical systems) planned for release in the new decade.
In this highly impressionable society, flair and extravagance is everything. If that’s what an electric Mercedes-Benz will look like, sign us all up for that future! Just make sure they come with
some perceivable “fake noises” please
.
IMAGE GALLERY


Ford Ranger Raptor X – the Baja King with a new red suit, RM217k

Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC) today unveiled a new special edition variant of the
Ford Ranger Raptor
, called the Ranger Raptor X. Unique to the new variant is a flashy new coat of
True Red
 paint – which is exclusive to customers in Malaysia, according to the company.
To go along with the new red exterior are variant-exclusive decals on the side and back. Aside from those though, the rest of the exterior are unchanged from before; the more notable additions are all on the inside.

New standard kit on the Ford Ranger Raptor X include a 360-degree surround view monitor, alongside a Kenwood QHD digital-video recorder – the latter comes with a built-in polarising filter to reduce reflections in the day, as well as a 32 GB memory card. A set of Raptor X floor carpet mats ties up the updated cabin.
Mechanically, the new Ford Ranger Raptor X remains identical to the standard Ranger Raptor. Underneath the bonnet is still the same 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel, pushing out the same 213 hp and 500 Nm of torque, and also paired to the same 10-speed automatic transmission.
The Ford Ranger Raptor’s Baja-ready Fox Racing Shox dampers are also still present here, as is the Terrain Management System (TMS), so don’t worry – you can still jump over sand dunes with the red Raptor X.
The Ford Ranger Raptor was
updated here in Malaysia last year
 with new advanced driver assistance features, and the same set of kit is also available here on the special-edition Raptor X. These include forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking system with vehicle and pedestrian detection, as well as lane departure warning and assist system.
Also new on the latest Ranger Raptor update are the LED headlights with new square-shaped projectors, front parking sensors, as well as a USB port near the rear-view mirror – perfect for powering up your dashcams, though the Raptor X already comes with one pre-wired.
The new Ford Ranger Raptor X is priced at
RM216,888
 on the road, without insurance – a RM6,000 premium over the standard Ranger Raptor, which just had its price increased for the 2021 model year. Included with the price is a 5-year/160,000 km manufacturer’s warranty, which was also just introduced for the Ranger line-up in Malaysia this year.


2021 Toyota Innova facelift now open for booking in Malaysia – from RM112k

Shortly after teasing the
2021 Toyota Fortuner
 and Innova on its website today, UMW Toyota has now announced that the 2021 Toyota Innova facelift is now open for booking here in Malaysia. The 2021 Toyota Innova is available here in three variants – E, G, and X – with prices starting from
RM111,622
 on the road, without insurance, and inclusive of the
 sales tax exemptions
.
First introduced in Indonesia in October last year, The 2021 Toyota Innova update brings along several styling and equipment changes. On the former, most of the updates are reserved to the front end, which sees a new smaller trapezoidal grille to match its other Toyota siblings, alongside a slightly more angular bumper design.
The fog lamp housings below the headlights also now take on a more vertical orientation, while at the back, not much has changed aside from some slightly-reworked garnishes that joins the tail lamps together.
The range-topping 2.0X variant gets several additional styling touches for a sportier look overall. These include new wheel arch mouldings, new bodyside mouldings, redesigned side skirts, as well as a reprofiled rear spoiler, which is said to improve aerodynamic performance.
The 17-inch wheels on the 2.0X also gets a new Dark Mica Metallic finish instead of black on the outgoing model, while the 2.0G gets a “more dynamic” new design, while still retaining its 16-inch sizing.
Image from Indonesian Toyota Innova Venturer
On the inside, the entire design is pretty much carried over from the
current Toyota Innova
. In terms of equipment, the nine-inch touchscreen infotainment display, previously introduced on the
Innova X
, is now standard on the 2021 Innova 2.0X and 2.0G.
The infotainment system comes with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, alongside a Panoramic View Monitor which has now been updated with a 3D view.
Citing customer feedback, the two fast-charging USB ports on the centre console has been repositioned for better accessibility, while the second- and third-row passengers also get additional USB ports. As an optional extra, customers can also include a wireless charging pad located in the centre console.
Also standard on the two higher-end variants is the new Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) system. Other safety equipment – standard across the entire line-up – include seven airbags and three-point auto-retracting seatbelts for third-row passengers, ABS with EBD and Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Control with Traction Control, Emergency Stop Signal, and Hill-start Assist Control (HAC).
The Toyota Vehicle Telematics System (VTS), which can track the vehicle’s movements using GPS and GSM technology, is now standard on the 2021 Toyota Innova in Malaysia. In the event that the vehicle is stolen, the VTS Command Centre can determine its location and inform relevant authorities to make recovery faster.
The 2021 Toyota Innova is available in six exterior colour choices: Medium Silver Metallic, Attitude Black Mica, Phantom Brown, Silver Metallic, Super White II, and Bronze Mica Metallic – the last in the list being a new addition to the model. The range-topping 2.0X variant gets an additional choice of Crimson Spark Red Metallic, pictured here.
Oily bits underneath the bonnet is completely unchanged from the outgoing model. Powering the 2021 Toyota Innova line-up is the same 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated inline-four engine paired to a six-speed automatic gearbox, good for a power output of
139 hp
 and
 183 Nm
 of torque.
Prices for the 2021 Toyota Innova in Malaysia are as follows:
2.0 E – RM111,620
2.0 G – RM121,483
2.0 X – RM129,677
All prices above are on the road prices, without insurance, and inclusive of the sales tax exemptions which has been recently extended until the 30th of June 2021. Included in the purchase is a five-year, unlimited mileage warranty. The 2021 Toyota Innova is now available for booking in Malaysia at all Toyota showrooms nationwide, as well as online at
build.toyota.com.my
.
GALLERY


This F1-inspired Mercedes-Benz A 160 Edition Häkkinen costs the same as a brand-new AMG A 35

Ah, the A-Class. Its weird mini MPV shape made it the odd one out in the marque’s model line-up when Mercedes-Benz first unveiled it back in the late ’90s, and that was also perhaps why the German carmaker never made an AMG version of the first-generation A-Class – well, not officially or for sale, anyway.
But for some reason, when the McLaren-Mercedes F1 Team won the Constructors’ Championship back in 1998, Mercedes-Benz thought that the perfect way to celebrate it was by making two special edition A-Class models: Edition Häkkinen and Edition Coulthard, obviously named after their two drivers, Mika Häkkinen and David Coulthard.
Only 250 units of these were ever made – 125 copies each, and now more than 20 years later, a pristine example of the Edition Häkkinen model has just turned up for sale at
Mechatronic.de
, with a listed price of EUR44,900 (Approx. RM222k) – almost the price for a brand-new
Mercedes-AMG A 35
 over in Germany!
The Mercedes-Benz A-Class is now a completely different car compared to this first-gen model. Check out our review of the A 250 Sedan here!
So what exactly do you get with that kind of money? Well, first of all, there won’t be an increase in power.
It’s fair to assume that a F1-themed special-edition model would at least get some sort of performance gain, and rumour has it that the
A 38 AMG one-off twin-engine model
 actually belongs to Mr. Häkkinen himself. But alas, Mercedes-Benz decided that the regular engine line-up for the A-Class is fit enough for the purpose.
In the A 160 form, which the Häkkinen Edition was based on, the 1.6-litre naturally-aspirated inline-four mill produces just
102 hp
and
150 Nm
 of torque, with power sent exclusively to the front wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox that features an automatic clutch system.
The new Mercedes-Benz E 300 Coupe has just been launched here in Malaysia. Read more about it here!
What you do get, at least, is a reworked sportier suspension set-up, which should improve the handling of the mini MPV. The ESP badge on the tailgate stands for electric stability control, which should also help keep all four wheels on the ground, and not flip over like the earlier versions did in the
infamous elk test
.
The main highlight of the Edition Häkkinen is actually on the cosmetics side, where it gets a hand-finished Mercedes-McLaren livery, with red and black accents airbrushed on the silver bodywork. Just like the championship-winning cars, the driver’s name and country flag is also plastered on the side.
A set of 17-inch AMG wheels shod in low-profile tyres, plus the dual exhaust exits at the rear, complete the unique exterior makeover.
Moving inside, you’ll see that the cabin is almost entirely covered in a sea of red Designo leather, including on the seats, doors, dashboard, and steering wheel. The gearshift stalk gets a special commemorative Edition Häkkinen trim, with “Nr. 046/250” inscripted at the bottom, but that’s about the extent of customisation that’s been made to the special-edition Mercedes-Benz A 160.
The all-new Mercedes-AMG A 45 S now even comes with a drift mode! Watch it battle the VW Golf R in a drift contest here!
At least, you’re probably buying the lowest-mileage first-generation Mercedes-Benz A-Class in the world, with only 215 km recorded on the clock. The car was originally delivered to Rome back in 1999, but since then, it’s mostly spent its time parked in showrooms or hidden in closed garages, and thus both the interior and exterior are kept in such immaculate condition.
And of course, there’s the whole collectability aspect of a special edition model bearing F1 legend Mika Häkkinen’s name on the side. He is after all the only driver who managed to beat Michael Schumacher in his prime, winning the F1 Driver’s Championship title in both 1998 and 1999.
[H/T:
Mechatronic.de
 via
CarScoops
]
GALLERY


Electric Audi RS3 destroys a 911 GT2 RS, an R8 and a Huracan in a drag race

Built by the same sponsors (Schaeffler) of the Audi Sport Formula E team, the S4eP as it is called, is based on the Audi RS3 but instead, it’s now powered by four electric motors, effectively making it all-wheel drive, with an output of more than 1,200 hp.
The video really only starts at the 3-minute mark onwards with the Audi R8 being the first victim followed by the Huracan Performante and lastly, the GT2 RS – the fastest 911 ever built.
Notice in 6:23 how rapidly the Lamborghini Huracan Performante was accelerating past the 160 km/h mark and yet, the S4eP was comfortably pulling away from the 911 GT2 RS as if it was standing still.
Only problem is, it’s all not in English.


2023 Toyota Vios launched in Malaysia, from RM90k – EPB, wireless CarPlay, Android Auto

The all-new 2023
Toyota Vios
 has now been launched in Malaysia, available in two variants – the E and G. Prices start at
RM 89,600
 for the E variant and top off at
RM95,500
 for the G variant.
Toyota Vios E –
RM89,600
Toyota Vios G –
RM95,500

By the way, if you’re looking to renew your insurance, you can get a 10% rebate and cash back at the end of your policy if you renew with MotorTakaful by Etiqa. Just log on to
www.motortakaful.com
.
Now sitting on an all-new platform, the 2023 Toyota Vios is larger than its predecessor. It measures 4,425 mm in length, 1,740 mm in width, and 1,480 mm in height. The wheelbase measures 2,620 mm in length and the car has a turning radius of 5.2 m for the G variant and 4.8 m for the E variant.
On the outside, standard features of the all-new Toyota Vios E include:
Auto LED Headlights with follow me home function
Manual headlight levelling
LED Daytime running lights
Standard rear combination LED lamp
Intermittent front wipers
Power adjustable side mirrors with auto fold, indicator lights, and blind spot monitoring
Remote trunk release
Body-coloured door handles
16-inch wheels
Black grille
Aerokits
Black door belt moulding
Black quarter window moulding
The range-topping G variant adds on the following exterior features:
Rear LED lights with sequential turn signals
Rain-sensing front windshield wipers
17-inch wheels
Piano black front grille
Chrome door belt moulding
Chrome quarter window moulding
As for the powertrain, the all-new Vios now prioritises fuel efficiency without sacrificing too much in terms of performance. It is still powered by a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder naturally aspirated engine. The powertrain for both the E and G variants are the same. The powertrain and further technical details of the all-new Vios are as such:
Engine: 1.5-litre 4-cylinder naturally aspirated
Max. Power:
106 hp
 @ 6,000 rpm
Max. Torque:
138 Nm
 @ 4,200 rpm
Top Speed: 180 km/h
Transmission: CVT with 7-speed Sequential Shiftmatic
Front Brakes: Ventilated disc brakes
Rear brakes: Solid disc brakes (G variant), drum brakes (E variant)
Front suspension: McPherson strut
Rear suspension: Torsion beam
Get into the inside of the all-new Toyota Vios, and you are welcomed by a much more modernized cabin that may seem a little familiar. One of the big changes to the cabin is the now tilt & telescopic adjustable steering wheel for the range-topping G variant.
Standard interior features available in the Toyota Vios E include:
Black & dark brown interior
Urethane steering wheel
Tilt-only steering wheel adjustment
4.2-inch TFT instrument cluster
Manual air conditioning controls
Front and rear AC vents
Smart entry & push start system
Wireless phone charger
Illuminated scuff plate
Front foot illumination
Manual handbrake
Pigmentation-type door armrest
9-inch head unit with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
4 speakers
3 USB charging ports
Urethane gear lever
Fabric seats
Up a tier, the G variant adds on:
Leather steering wheel
Tilt & Telescopic steering adjustment
Paddle shifters
7-inch TFT digital instrument cluster
64-colour ambient lighting
Auto climate control
Soft pad door arm rest
Electronic parking brake (EPB) with auto hold function
6 speakers
Leather seats
Leather gear shift lever
As for safety, the standard Vios E comes equipped with:
Pre-collision System (PCS)
Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
Lane Departure Prevention (LDP)
Front Departure Alert (FDA)
Pedal Misoperation Control (PMC)
3D panoramic view monitor
Blind spot monitor (BSM)
Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
Front Digital Video Recorder with Smartphone connectivity
Brake Assist (BA)
Hil Start Assist (HAS)
2 front and 4 rear parking sensors
The G variant introduces additional safety features on top of what the E variant offers, such as:
Lane Keeping Control (LKC)
Auto High Beam (AHB)
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
To recap, the all-new Vios has been launched in Malaysia, with two variants available. The standard E variant costs
RM89,600
 while the range-topping G variant costs
RM95,500
. The all-New Toyota Vios comes with a 5-year warranty and unlimited mileage. Owners will also enjoy 24SEVEN Road Assist and a free three-year subscription to the Toyota Vehicle Telematics System which monitors the car’s location at all times.
One optional item that can be added to both the E and G variants is a rear digital video recorder. All variants of the Toyota Vios are also equipped with an RFID tag for highway toll usage.
RELATED:
2023 Toyota Vios – No folding rear seats, no spare wheel – Here’s why
GALLERY


Government targets 1.5 million EVs on Malaysia roads by 2040

The Malaysian government has set a target for
electric vehicle (EV)
 ownership here on our shores – 1.5 million EVs on our Malaysia roads by 2040.
This was announced by Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, adding that the new target is an increase compared to the target set by the Planning and Implementation Committee for Electric Supply and Tariff (JPPPET) previously, which was 90,000 EVs by 2040.
“As we foresee that there will be pressure from developed countries to ‘migrate’ to electric vehicles, we need to be more prepared,” said the minister in the
Dewan Rakyat
 today.
“On that basis, this will be depicted in targets in relation to [the construction of] charging stations, built by for example,
Gentari Sdn. Bhd. (Gentari)
,
Tenaga Nasional
, and also private companies nationwide, in an effort to help towards electrification,” he added.
RELATED:
Government working to reduce EV prices for the rakyat – Tengku Zafrul
Nik Nazmi was responding to asupplmentary question from Datuk Seri Hasni Mohammad on the government’s plans on ensuring the effectiveness of the Long Term Low Emissions Development Low Emissions Development Strategies (LT-LEDS), during the question and answer session today.
As set under the the 12th Malaysia Plan, the country aims to become a completely carbon-neutral nation by 2050. The LT-LEDS, alongside the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) Roadmap and Action Plan, are part of the government’s strategy to achieve that goal.
“Once the LT-LEDS is completed, this will also help the government in enacting the Climate Change Act which we hope will be able to help the country achieve net-zero [carbon emissions] as early as 2050,” Nik Nazmi added said.
According to the minister, the NDC Roadmap and Action Plan, alongside the LT-LEDS, are both expected to be finalised in the fourth quarter of 2023.
[Source:
Bernama
]


2015 Mitsubishi Outlander debuts at New York with new “Dynamic Shield” design language

Mitsubishi Motors has revealed something a little more than just the
facelifted Outlander
 at the 2015 New York International Motor Show, because what’s more interesting is that the seven-seater SUV (formally known as the Airtrek) is officially the first model of their current range to carry the carmaker’s new
“Dynamic Shield”
 design language.
This new design pays most attention to the front end, with heavy use of chrome and appears stylistically bolder to give
better road presence
. Almost all design cues from the outgoing model is renewed here, and the Outlander doesn’t look nearly half as ridiculous as the new
Alphard
 despite the excessive chrome touches.

Among new niceties added to the front include the restyled front fenders, halogen projector headlights with LED positioning lights, lower door sections, 18-inch alloy wheels, power folding side mirrors, rear fascia and LED tail lamps. On the higher specced GT trim, the Outlander gets full LED headlights.
Inside, Mitsubishi says the revised cabin includes a new steering wheel, seating surfaces, accent trim, rear folding seats, headliner and a brand new display audio system. Mitsubishi claims that these improvements are among
 100

new engineering
 and
design enhancements
, and that the Outlander marks a new era for the brand in terms of style, refinement and overall driving experience.

In the region where it’s launched, the Outlander’s powertrain remains the same – a
2.4-litre SOHC
 inline-four or a
3.0-litre SOHC V6
 engine that make
166 hp
 at 6,000 rpm and
220 Nm
 of torque and
224 hp
 and
292 Nm
 of torque respectively. What’s new here is the
CVT gearbox
, which is said improve acceleration, performance, shift feel and torque delivery.
Other major refinements are done to the chassis in order to make the SUV dynamically better than the preceding model. As such, it gets a more rigid body and suspension, electric power steering, noise-isolating windshield and rear door glass, new front suspension setup and rear differential dampers. More emphasis is placed on comfort as well, so the Outlander comes with better sound insulation throughout the vehicle and improved weather strips and engine compartment trims.
Now, with all that said, we wonder what the Lancer Evo 11 would look like bearing this Dynamic Shield design. Let’s just hope that the folks at Mitsubishi are working on the 8-year old
Lancer
‘s successor for all our sakes.
IMAGE GALLERY


This Puma x Porsche collection was the world’s fastest sneaker pre-release!

Before you start wondering where you can buy them, sorry to burst your bubble but they’re all sold out. When it was released in the US yesterday through
Porsche Design
 and Puma’s website, buyers only had 2.7 seconds to buy them!
Not sure how that worked out but Porsche said it’s
 inspired by the 0 to 100 km/h time of the new Porsche 911 Turbo
; which was silly, to be honest. Nonetheless, Puma and Porsche enthusiasts clearly weren’t fazed.
The 930 Turbo
The 993 Turbo
At USD 150 each, all 500 pairs from the Puma x Porsche collaboration, were sold out within hours. There’s only a couple left on the
Puma website
 but for good reason; you’d need to chop half your feet off to fit into them.
The eight different designs in the Puma x Porsche collection were inspired by eight different generations of the Porsche 911 Turbo. There were also two different types of sneakers to represent the different eras of the 911s as well.
The 996 Turbo
The new 992 Turbo
The retro-looking
Future Rider
 represents the first four generations of air-cooled 911 Turbos which include the 930 3.0-litre and 3.3-litre, the 964 and 993. On the other hand, the more recent Turbo models from the 996, 997, 991, and 992 generations were featured through the motorsport-styled
 Speedcat
 design.
GALLERY
911 3.0
911 3.3
964
993
996
997
991
992


Facts & Figures: CKD Mercedes-Benz A-Class Sedan launched in Malaysia – from RM211k

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia today unveiled the locally-assembled A-Class sedan as part of its
CKD push for its compact models
, which also includes the GLA crossover. As before, the
Mercedes-Benz A-Class sedan
 will be offered in two variants – A 200 Progressive Line and A 250 AMG Line, with specifications largely unchanged.

However, thanks to its new locally-assembled status, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class Sedan has been given a noticeable price cut, now starting at
RM210,902.57
 for the A 200 variant, on the road, without insurance, and inclusive of the SST exemptions.
A 200 Progressive Line
A 250 AMG Line
EXTERIOR
The two variants are differentiated on the outside by their different exterior trim packages. The range-topping A 250 gets the AMG Line exterior package with a set of 18-inch AMG Line alloys, while the A 200 gets a more subdued Progressive Line exterior kit, along with the 18-inch 5 twin spoke alloy wheels.
Exterior kit is pretty much unchanged from the CBU models, with the only changes being the switch to regular rubbers (with tyre repair kit) from run-flats on the A 200 as part of the CKD treatment. The A 250’s cross-drilled front brake discs have also been switched to regular ventilated items.
Colour choices for the CKD Mercedes-Benz A-Class Sedan include:
Polar White
Cosmos Black
Mountain Grey
Iridium Silver
Denim Blue
PERFORMANCE
The powertrain underneath the bonnet on the CKD models are unchanged from the previously-introduced CBU Mercedes-Benz A-Class Sedans.
Model
A 200 Progressive Line
A 250 AMG Line
Engine
1,332 cc, turbocharged inline-four, petrol
1,991 cc, turbocharged inline-four, petrol
Transmission
7G-DCT dual clutch transmission
 7G-DCT dual clutch transmission
Driveline
Front-engine, front wheel drive
 Front-engine, front wheel drive
Max hp
163 hp at 5,500 rpm
224 hp at 5,500 rpm
Max torque
250 Nm at 1620 – 4000 rpm
350 Nm at 1800 – 4000 rpm
0-100 km/h
8.1 seconds
6.3 seconds
Top speed
230 km/h
250 km/h
Both variants of the CKD Mercedes-Benz A-Class Sedans are equipped with a set of lowered comfort suspension, alongside a Direct-Steer system.
A 250 AMG Line interior
INTERIOR
The two variants’ trim level appointments continue onto the cabin, with the A 200 getting a more subdued look, while the A 250 gets the sportier AMG Line treatment. Standard equipment for the two variants include:
Mercedes-Benz A 200 Progressive Line
Carbon fibre-look trim
Leather multifunction sports steering wheel
Luxury powered front seats with four-way lumbar support and memory function
10.25-inch digital instrument cluster
10.25-inch MBUX infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Automatic climate control
Mercedes-Benz A 250 AMG Line (adds)
Light linear-grain aluminium trim
Multifunction sports steering wheel in Nappa leather
Suede/leather upholstery
Front powered sports seats with four-way lumbar support and memory function
Illuminated door sill panels with “Mercedes-Benz” lettering
Ambient lighting
A 250 AMG Line
SAFETY
Both variants are equipped with the standard autonomous emergency braking system, alongside Active Brake Assist, Pre-Safe pre-collision system, reverse camera with parking assist, and a tyre pressure monitoring system.
The range-topping A 250 AMG Line adds on the Blind Spot Assist system, alongside an Exit Warning Assist.
A 250 AMG Line
PRICING
The CKD Mercedes-Benz A-Class Sedan now enjoy a lower price, thanks to their new locally-assembled status. With the soon-to-be-expired SST exemptions, the A 200 Progressive Line is now priced at
RM210,903
, while the A 250 AMG Line is priced at
RM239,858
 on the road, without insurance – a reduction of RM11,000 and RM19,000 respectively.
With the 5% sales tax applied, the two variants are priced at
RM219,888
 and
RM249,888
 respectively, which is RM10,000 and RM18,000 cheaper than the outgoing CBU cars. As usual, each purchase also includes a four-year, unlimited-mileage warranty.
GALLERY
Mercedes-Benz A 200 Progressive Line
Mercedes-Benz A 250 AMG Line


Special-run Aston Martin Vantage GT12 all sold out, each priced at RM1.6 million!

Prior to moving into the brand’s Gaydon home in 2007, Aston Martin Works was nestled in Newport Pagnell, Buckinghamshire, where the historic home of famed British sports carmaker produced some 13,000 hand-built raw machineries before moving to their current base in Warwickshire.
The month of September also marks the time when new registration plates in the UK are out. In this case, the “
65
” series
 license plates
 are being rolled out, sending sales number spiking through the roof. Coincidentally, it’s the same time where one of the first few units of the
limited-run
 Vantage GT12 hits the
 Aston Martin Works
 showroom, where one very lucky UK customer will take delivery.
The Aston in question here is based on the Vantage V12. In keeping with the brand’s exclusivity, only 100 prime examples will see the light of day, and none will be headed to
North America
. The GT12 draws
592 hp
 from its
6.0-litre V12
 engine lent from the road-going
 V12 Vantage S
 model.
Notably restyled to the
GT3 flavour
, this motorsport-inspired road car is
lower
 and
wider
 than any of its
Vantage
 siblings and boasts an extensive use of
carbon fibre
 inside, as well as a track-focused
aerodynamic pack
 that comes with a prominent
 rear

wing
 and pronounced front
splitter
. They all work in tandem to give the car more downforce, so it’s more than just aesthetics.
Lightness is a crucial part of the GT12. Tipping the scales at just over
1,565 kg
, it utilises materials such as
magnesium
 for the
 intake manifolds
;
aluminium and

carbon
 composites for the
prop shafts
 and
 body
whereas
titanium
 is used for the
exhaust system
. The exhausts here
reduce back pressure
, allowing for
 advanced ignition timing
. The uprated
 suspension
 comes from an altered
suspension geometry
 and
spring rates
, along with a
recalibrated

electronic control
 for the
adaptive dampers
.
Inspired by Aston Martin Racing’s squadron and its successful campaigns, this new GT3-derived Vantage was designed and engineered at Aston’s HQ at Gaydon to be the most overt expression of everything that defines the Vantage lineup – a sports model offering
supreme drivability
 on the road, and
uncompromising track performance
.
Originally, the project was deemed the
Vantage GT3
, but that would’ve clashed with Porsche’s use of the GT3 moniker. Hence, the GT12 was born with a price tag of
 £250,000
 or
RM1.6 million
. That being said, it is still a ‘
budget
‘ alternative as compared to the offerings from
McLaren
 and
Ferrari
. And just like Aston’s other track-muncher, the
Vulcan
, they are both sold out.
IMAGE GALLERY


Majority of authorised Toyota and Lexus outlets operational during CMCO

UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has announced that its network of authorised Toyota and Lexus sales and service outlets located in areas observing the
Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO)
 will be open for business starting from today.
However, the company advises its customers to call their preferred outlets in advance to enquire on the operational hours, and to secure a prior appointment, as the opening of each outlet will be based on the approval and regulations by the respective local State Governments.
The company had
previously acquired approval
 from the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) to resume operations during phase three of the MCO. The standard operating procedure (SOP) for daily operations issued by MITI, which includes measures such as social distancing, sanitisation of premises, and contactless payment methods, will be strictly enforced at all authorised Toyota and Lexus outlets.
UMWT President, Ravindran K. said, “We will follow the SOP strictly at all our Sales and Service Outlets for our customers’ peace of mind as well as to also protect our staff. It is hoped that our customers will understand the requirements which are necessary in the public interest and safety.”
As
 announced previously
, all vehicles purchased from UMWT and its authorised dealers, with warranties valid and expiring during the MCO, will be automatically given a
30-day extension
, calculated from the last day of the MCO – currently scheduled for the 12th of May.
For further enquiries, customers can contact Toyota and Lexus general enquiries hotlines at
1800-8-TOYOTA (869682)
 and

1-800-88-LEXUS (53987)
 respectively, Monday to Friday from 8 am to 5.30 pm. For emergency assistance, customers can contact Toyota 24Seven Road Assist at
1800-888-247
.


Sorry Alza, but it’s the Toyota Veloz that’ll get the premium stuff in Malaysia

The Perodua Alza
made its debut here in Malaysia yesterday
, to much fanfare on the internet. Not to be outdone, though, UMW Toyota Motor has released a number of photos for its upcoming Veloz (sister car to the Alza and
Avanza
), showcasing some of its more “premium-grade” equipment in an attempt to steal a bit of the thunder.
To be fair, the Toyota Veloz will not be competing directly against the Perodua Alza, as it’s estimated to be priced around RM95,000 for the sole variant here in Malaysia, while the latter tops out at RM75,500. But still, it’s a massive power move to release the images on the same day, and we’re here for it.
Firstly, you definitely won’t be mistaking the Veloz for the Alza from the outside, as the Toyota MPV will get a two-tone paint job, thanks to the blacked-out roof, pillars, and wing mirrors. There’s also a set of roof rails on the Veloz, a feature which the Alza lacks.
The Toyota Veloz also gets a unique front end that’s arguably more high-end looking, thanks to its slightly more angular headlights conjoined by a slim chrome strip, large hexagonal grille, and additional chrome detailing on the bumper’s fog light housings.
Round the back, the Toyota Veloz also differentiates itself with the full-width light bar design taillights, and the skid plate-like elements on the bumper to give it a more SUV-like appearance. And to round things off, the Veloz also gets a larger set of 17-inch alloys, to better fill in the (slightly different-looking) wheel arches of the MPV.
RELATED: All-new 2022 Perodua Alza launched in Malaysia – from RM62,500
The two models are a lot more similar on the inside, as they both build upon the same horizontal dashboard architecture with a two-tone design. There are still some discernable differences between the two, however, with the obvious ones being the less angular central air vents, silver trim details, as well as the white inserts on the dashboard and door cards, all to give it a more “upmarket” appearance.
The nine-inch touchscreen infotainment display also seems to be a completely different unit (with wired Apple CarPlay support), sporting a wider aspect ratio than the one on the Alza. Further down, the air conditioning controls are also different, with a wider twin-knob design to better fill in the space on the plastic panel.
More notably, there’s also an additional wireless charging pad for your mobile phones, located behind the electronic parking brake lever on the centre console of the Toyota Veloz. The seven-inch digital instrument cluster seem to be identical to the Alza’s, however.
Despite the differences in equipment, the powertrain underneath the bonnet will most likely be the same, or at least very similar between the two. We’re expecting to see the same 2NR-VE 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated inline-four here, with drive sent to the front wheels via a D-CVT (or automatic?) gearbox.
No exact performance figures have been released yet, but the same mill in the Alza makes
105 hp
 and
138 Nm
 of torque. At least, we probably won’t have to wait too much longer to find out, as UMW Toyota has already begun order taking for the 2022 Veloz.


Geely to buy 5% stake in Daimler, valued at €4 billion, for EV technology

After their recent acquisition of Lotus Cars and
49.9 percent stake in Proton Holdings
, Geely Automobile Holdings (Geely) was reported to show interest in Mercedes-Benz’s parent company, Daimler.
China Central Television first reported that Geely is keen in acquiring a three to five percent stake in Daimler, which is valued at around €4 billion (RM19 billion). If the deal is secured, this would make Geely the third-largest shareholder, overtaking the Renault-Nissan Alliance (3.1 percent).
In the past, Geely has successfully acquired major brands such as Volvo Cars,
London EV Company
 (formally known as London Taxi Company),
Lotus Cars
 and
Terrafugia
. It was speculated that Geely is keen on tapping into Daimler’s electrification technology in view of the Chinese Government’s push for electrified vehicles.
It was reported that last month, Daimler rejected a bid by Geely to buy a five percent stake in the company at a discounted rate. Sources said that Daimler told Geely that they are welcome to purchase shares in the open market.
A spokesman for Daimler said the company was “very happy with our shareholder structure at present,” but added that it would welcome new investors with a long-term interest in the company.


Facelifted Peugeot 208 revealed, new BlueHDi diesel engine and 6 speed auto [+Video]

You’re looking at the facelifted
Peugeot 208
, set to debut at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show in March. Yes the update is very mild to say the least, but the 208 has always been a good looking car in the first place.
What’s new, you ask? Well, the
front bumper
 is new, with a
wider grille
 and foglamp surround, and the back gets a new pair of
LED taillamps
. There are now 13 colours to choose from, and it includes the zesty
Orange POWER metallic
 as featured on this page.

The interior is retained, but the
7-inch toucscreen
 unit is now equipped with the
MirrorScreen function
 that supports Mirrorlink and Carplay. The screen also displays the live feed from the new optional
reverse camera
.

Other optional equipment include the
Park Assist
 and the new
Active City Brake technology
 that brakes the car from speeds up to 30 km/h.

A new
GT Line
 trim is introduced on the facelifted 208, and it adds a gloss black “EQUALIZER” grille with red 3D marking, black side mirror caps, chrome window surrounds and tailpipe, a set of 17-inch CAESIUM diamante alloys, and red highlights for the interior
à la
 GTi.

Missed out on the limited-run 208 GTi 30th? Well on the facelift 208 it’s back but it’s called the
208 GTi by PEUGEOT Sport
. Ridiculous name aside, it inherits the goodies from the 208 GTi 30th such as the uprated steering and suspension settings, Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres, Brembo front brakes, Torsen limited slip differential, and even the “straight cut” black and red paintwork.
Under the bonnet there’s a new
1.6 litre BlueHDi
 diesel with three different power output:
75 hp
,
100 hp
, and
120 hp
. The BlueHDi 75 and BlueHDi 100 pair comes with a
5-speed manual
 transmission while the 1.6 litre BlueHDi 120 gets a
6-speed manual
 transmission.
Petrol options include a
1.0-litre PureTech
 with
68 hp
, a
1.2-litre PureTech
 with
82 hp
 or
110 hp
, and a
1.6-litre THP
 with either
165 hp
 or
208 hp
 for the GTi.
The PureTech units use a
5-speed manual
, but the 1.2-litre PureTech 110 gets an option for a
 6-speed automatic
 transmission. Yup, no more 4-speed automatic this time. Meanwhile a 6-speed manual is used for both the 1.6 litre THP 165 and the 1.6 litre THP 208.
Don’t count your hopes too high for the facelifted 208 to arrive in Malaysia any time soon, because even in Europe the sales will commence only in mid-June this year. There is though, the recently introduced
208S
 if you can’t wait that long. Meanwhile, enjoy the image gallery below!
[divider]
VIDEO GALLERY
IMAGE GALLERY


Enough with the C-HR, the new Toyota RAV4 looks incredible

There was a time where the Toyota RAV4 was all the rage on our roads but somehow interests just fizzled out from the fourth-generation RAV4 onwards – with the SUV fanfare at the height of its craze, it’s hard to imagine the RAV4 not being well received locally, if ever.
Toyota has recently made waves at the New York International Auto Show with the debut of the fifth-generation RAV4. Riding on the new TNGA platform, the car sits lower and wider, with a longer wheelbase and wider front and rear tracks for better stability.
For off-road needs, the RAV4’s shorter front and rear overhangs can help overcome rugged terrain. Ground clearance has also been increased by more than half an inch, yet RAV4 is able to achieve improved aerodynamics.
Built by a group of “takumi” – highly trained master craftsmen – to deliver a car that acts and reacts as the driver intends, the new RAV4 comes with two different powertrains; a 2.5-litre four-cylinder Dynamic Force VVT-iE engine mated to an 8-speed Direct Shift Automatic Transmission and a 2.5-litre four-cylinder Dynamic Force engine with Toyota Hybrid System II (THS II) paired to an electronically-controlled CVT gearbox.
Also implemented is the Toyota-first, Dynamic Torque Vectoring All-Wheel Drive with Rear Driveline Disconnect. The system can send 50 percent of engine torque to the rear wheels, plus distribute it to the left or right rear wheel for improved handling. A multi-link rear suspension also further enhances road-holding capabilities.
The system can also divert power to the front wheels only when AWD is not required while cruising on highways, for better fuel economy. Paired with the new All-Wheel Drive with Intelligence (AWD-i), the RAV4 Hybrid can increase the total torque to the rear wheels—which is electronically driven—by 30 percent compared to the current generation AWD-i system with Multi-Terrain Select.

Standard features include a front-row moonroof, 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory and 2-way lumbar support. Tech-wise, RAV4 Limited comes standard with a newly-designed 7-inch Multi-Information Display (MID), a 7-inch touchscreen display and a Digital Display Rearview Mirror. Optional equipment includes ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, hands-free automatic tailgate and a panoramic moonroof.
The second-generation Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) 2.0 is also implemented in the RAV4. The system brings with it Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Automatic High Beam, the new Lane Tracing Assist and Road Sign Assist.
Eight airbags come as standard, together with the available safeguards like Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Braking and Bird’s Eye View Camera.
IMAGE GALLERY


360-degree camera now available as option on Honda HR-V and BR-V – RM3.3k

Honda Malaysia is now offering a new optional accessory for the
Honda HR-V
 and
 BR-V
, in the form of a 360-degree surround view monitor. The Advanced 360 HD Camera accessory will cost
RM3,300
, and is available either as an optional accessory on brand-new cars, or retrofitted onto existing models.
The new 360-degree surround view monitor is compatible for the
Honda HR-V facelift (2019 onwards)
, as well as the
2020 Honda BR-V
 – the latter only available on the range-topping V variant, as it’s the only variant in the line-up with a touchscreen infotainment display.
Click to enlarge
Being a genuine Honda accessory, the 360-degree surround view monitor comes with a pre-fitted casing for either models to ensure a seamless installation. As usual, the surround view monitor comes with four cameras – on the front grille, left and right wing mirrors, and rear bootlid – to provide a birds-eye view image on the infotainment display by stitching the images together.
The Honda-HR-V was last
updated earlier this year
, featuring a new touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Prices for the new Honda HR-V starts at RM104,000 for the entry-level 1.8E variant, moving up to RM118,582 for the range-topping 1.8 RS.
As for the BR-V, the 2020 model was updated with several minor aesthetic tweaks, and a new seven-inch touchscreen infotainment display on the range-topping variant – the latter is what allows for this new add-on accessory. Prices start at RM89,900 for the 1.5E, and RM96,900 for the 1.5V variant.
All prices are on-the-road, without insurance, and inclusive of the
sales tax exemptions
, which will be applicable until the 30th of June 2021.


This is what a “Doomsday-spec” Mitsubishi Triton would look like

Following its global premiere in London early this year along with a European tour, the Fast & Furious Live show will begin touring the UK – featuring precision performance driving and newly created physics-defying stunts.
Aside from the iconic wheels of the F&F franchise, audience will also be treated to a one-of-a-kind Mitsubishi L200 (Triton for us) that’s been so radically modified – inside and out – it’s worthy of some airtime on the next Mad Max sequel.
While it may share the same black and orange colour scheme as the
Barbarian II Triton
 (a sequel to the
Barbarian SVP
), the similarities end there. The Triton’s stance had been widened by 15 x 15J wheels, with extended suspension travel and an external roll cage that wraps around the front bumper and wheel arches.
Staying true to the Fast & Furious theme, the bespoke Triton packs as much punch under the hood as it does on the outside. It’s 2.4-litre engine’s force induction system gets treated to a larger hybrid Garrett turbocharger and a custom manifold linked to its side-exit exhaust.
The charged air generated from the upgraded turbocharger then gets cooled by a larger, front-mounted intercooler. An ECU remap provides the final touch to ensure optimum engine combustion from the increased air flow from upgraded air intakes and filters.
Inside, it’s been fully stripped out with a pair of Corbeau carbon fibre bucket seats and four-point Luke race harnesses being the noticeable occupants.
IMAGE GALLERY


Review: Nissan Leaf, the full electric silent eco-warrior [+Video]

With the ever increasing concern about preserving the environment, car makers have responded by making a huge effort to reduce the emission coming out of their vehicles. Now consumers are offered with the choice of downsized petrol engines with force induction, cleaner diesel engines, and hybrid powerplants; but
full electric
 vehicles are still few and far between.
Nissan
 is one of the car makers that is striving to get electric cars available for the masses. Admittedly it’s no small effort, but it has to start somewhere. Introduced in 2010, the
Leaf
 was developed totally new from the ground up. Even though it is not their first electric car, it is indeed the first mass-market electric car to go on sale in recent years.
QUICK FACTS
Name
Nissan Leaf

Segment
C-Segment hatchback
Motor
AC synchronous
Transmission
Single speed gear reduction
Max Power
80 kW (107 hp)
Max Torque
254 Nm
Price
RM 180,566.18
Even though
Edaran Tan Chong Motor
 (ETCM) officially launched the Leaf in Malaysia a couple of years back at the
2013 Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show
 (KLIMS13), the Leaf has been here since 2012. Back then, ETCM did a pilot program for public awareness, where a few groups of people were selected as the “
Leaf ambassadors
” and they get to experience the Leaf for six weeks.
While the Leaf has been regarded as one of the world’s best selling electric vehicles of all time, in Malaysia it’s still quite elusive. The uncertainty with the electric powertrain might be one of the factors that deter Malaysians from purchasing, and not to mention the asking price for this fully-imported C-segment hatchback is comparable to a full-specced Asian D-segment sedan.
To find out what it’s like to turn over a new leaf (
ahem
) for a cleaner motoring, we get behind the wheel of the Nissan Leaf to experience the new age of electric mobility, and whether it is any different from the cars with internal combustion engine that we’re so used to in our daily lives.
Before we begin, we need to explain the name “Leaf”. It’s really not the green thing that sticks out from a tree. It stands for “
L
eading,
E
nvironmentally friendly,
A
ffordable
F
amily car”.
EXTERIOR
To get people to warm to the idea of electric cars as a viable option against the usual petrol or diesel powered cars, Nissan has opted for a fairly conservative
five-door hatchback
 format for the Leaf. The outcome turned out to be nicely executed if not awkwardly proportioned, striking that fine balance between familiarity and obscurity. Although personally I was hoping for a bit more pizzazz to make it stand out even more but the Leaf did catch the attention of many due to its peculiar silhouette.
At the front end of the Leaf, the shape of the
finned headlamps
 bulge out quite literally from the body. According to Nissan, it was designed to slice the air towards the side mirrors thus reducing drag and wind noise from entering the cabin.
LED
 is used only for the main beam, and weirdly Nissan has chosen the
foglamps
 to function as the
DRLs
 instead of incorporating a stylised LED in the headlamp cluster.

In place of a normal grille on the nose is a covered panel marked with a blue-tinted Nissan logo. The panel also opens to reveal a couple of
charging ports
 for the battery. There’s
no radiator
 here, but the air intake in the front bumper is still needed for ventilation purposes and to cool the electrical equipment.
The side is quite bare save for the wavy shoulder line and chromed door handles, while a set of
16-inch wheels
 reside under the wheel arches. The kinked tail leads to a voluptuous protruding rear bumper, while the slinky taillamps curve up to the D-pillars on to the integrated roof spoiler with a
 solar panel
.

Despite the aerodynamic touches like the finned bonnet edges, flat floor, rear diffuser, and even the design of the funky antennae; the Leaf only achieved the
drag coefficient of 0.29
 which is not that great, taking into account the efforts given to make the design as slippery as possible.
INTERIOR
From the driver’s seat your eyes will be drawn to the two-tiered digital instrument display and a floating piece of glossy black slab on the dashboard that houses a
7-inch touchscreen
 display. Information such as the battery capacity, estimated driving range, and how much power you’re using are grouped in the main display behind the multi-function steering wheel; while another display above it shows the speed and there’s an
eco driving indicator
 that will grow digital trees based on your driving style.

The touchscreen display on the center panel gives you even more information. You can review your driving history, the battery information, and also set the timer for the battery charge, among others.

On the center tunnel is the “
drive selector
” that replaces the normal gear selector. It might look radical at first sight but it’s actually fairly uncomplicated to use. Parking brake has been moved down to the foot well, so you get a small recess behind the selector for your coins and whatnots. Bigger knick-knacks can be stored under the center armrest or inside the glovebox, and there’s a total of
six cupholders
 to be found in the cabin.

There’s plenty of headroom for all occupants but the legroom for rear passengers is rather limited as they can’t slide their feet under the front seats due to the battery pack below that causes the floor to be slightly raised.
 Leather upholstery
 comes as standard for the seats and steering, and since it’s an electric vehicle I was expecting them to have full electric adjustments as well, but unfortunately they don’t. However, being an imported CBU model from Japan, they are fitted with heater function, which is pretty much pointless in the sweltering Malaysian weather.

The deep boot offers
370 litres
 of cargo capacity, and you won’t find a spare tyre inside the boot floor because it’s mounted outside of the car, under the boot. Meanwhile you can always drop the rear seats backrests down to create more space, but you will end up with a stepped cargo area. Again, this is due to the positioning of the battery pack underneath.
PERFORMANCE
A
synchronous electric motor
 is mounted up front, driving the front wheels. It generates
80 kW
 (which is equivalent to 107 hp) and
254 Nm of torque
 from idle, and
0 to 100 km/h
 is achieved in
11.5 seconds
 while the
top speed
 is said to be
more than 140 km/h
.
Powering the electric motor is the
24 kWh lithium ion battery
 that occupies the floor. With an
estimated range of 195 km
 it will take around
four hours
 to get it
fully charged
 using the
6.6 kW charger
. You can’t charge the Leaf using the standard three-pin plug from your house, but thankfully a charging station is included with every purchase of the Leaf in Malaysia.
Apart from that, the battery gets its charge from the
regenerative braking
 feature which recovers the kinetic energy from braking, and there’s also an additional
B-mode
 that intensifies the feature even more. What it means is you’re delaying the battery’s energy depletion because the battery gets its charge back during braking or coasting.
If you notice from the picture of the engine bay, the Leaf still uses a
 standard 12 volt battery
 to power the lights and entertainment system, but the tiny
 solar panel
 on the rear spoiler also helps to provide power to the auxiliaries.
THE DRIVE
It’s hard not to think the Leaf as an appliance. To begin with, you don’t press a starter button to crank the engine up into life but instead you thumb the power button to turn it on. You’ll be greeted with a default jingle (you can choose from three preset tunes) that sounds like a startup screen from a game console, and after that you’ll wonder whether the Leaf is switched on or not.
Give a few prods on the accelerator pedal and all you hear is dead silence. Daniel mooted on the idea of an artificial engine sound for the driver, and we were curious about why Nissan didn’t include this in the Leaf when they already have the
R-Sound Effect
 in the
Renault Clio RS
.
However, Nissan did develop a
synthesised sound
 akin to a wheezing robot for the pedestrians and cyclists alike to sense your presence. I find it too soft for people to notice it and Nissan could have produced a better sound than this. Take a listen to the
Fisker Karma
 on YouTube and you’ll see (or hear) what I mean.
Novelty gear selector aside, the Leaf operates like any other car. The steering does feel a bit numb and it doesn’t appreciate being hustled into corners because the suspension has been tuned for none other than to provide a cosseting ride, and in return it does deliver Teana-levels of ride comfort. Couple that with the silence and you get a serene yet comfortable compact
waftmobile
.
Being an electric car, torque is available instantly from standstill. In normal mode the acceleration is err, electrifying, and it feels much quicker than the suggested on-paper figures, making it a boon for overtaking maneuvers or to quickly zip in and out of traffic. This thing is capable to leave most people (especially motorcyclists) in shock by the wake of silence it has left upon its trail.
Needless to say if you do that constantly you’ll drain the battery much sooner than you think, but thoughtfully Nissan provided the Leaf with an
Eco Mode
. You’ll immediately feel a slight resistance to the throttle pedal to discourage you from provoking the Golf GTI next to you for an impromptu traffic lights drag race.
Like the Teana, highway driving is a very relaxed affair, especially when
cruise control
 is included in this hatch. There’s barely any noise inside the cabin, but that in return can be a source of annoyance because your hearing attention will be drawn to the petty things such as the sound of the rattling paraphernalia you’ve stored in the glovebox or even the sound of the passenger breathing next to you. Anyhow, you can always cure the vexation by listening to some tunes from the audio system.
When in Drive, slotting the toggle to D again gives you the
B-Mode
 which turns up the regenerative braking effect even more. It should give you an
extended range
 as it recoups back the wasted energy from braking, but it may require you to re-adjust your driving style a bit. This is because the Leaf will slow itself down as soon as you ease off the accelerator pedal. Once you’re accustomed to it, it is possible to drive around in the Leaf using just the throttle pedal alone while you only step on the brake pedal whenever you want to come to a complete halt.
Finding a parking spot shouldn’t be a problem in a very few shopping malls such as
Suria KLCC
 and
 Bangsar Shopping Center
 as they provide one (yes, one) dedicated
parking bay with a charging station
. No fee is charged for the electrical charge, but you still need to pay for the parking fee of course. While the odds of bumping into another electric car maybe pretty low at this time of writing, you may still need to pray that the parking bay is not occupied by another Nissan Leaf, or any other electric car for that matter.
Parking the Leaf is another story, with the long front overhang and the absence of parking sensors it can be quite a hassle initially; although it has a
 reverse camera
 to assist you with reverse parking. Once parked and plugged, be prepared to get curious glances from the public and queries about the car’s electrical thingamajig.
Some might view this as the Achilles’ heel for the Leaf. When fully charged, the indicator shows a travel range of around
135 km
 but you have to bear in mind that’s just a suggestive number from the computer. Depending on your driving style and how frequent you turn on the aircond, realistically you’re looking at a 90 km range, just to be on the safe side.
And yet, personally I reckon 90 km should be enough for the typical daily urban commuters, even if you’re the type who always head out for the post-work
mamak
 sessions with your
kakis
. At the end of the day you just need to plug in the car overnight and the battery will be fully charged for the next day.
IS IT FOR YOU?
If you’re committed to reduce your carbon footprint then the Leaf is definitely for you. With virtually
no tailpipe
 to release harmful gasses to the environment, you can finally embrace the
guilt-free driving
 that you’ve always wanted, unlike your neighbour that drives the Prius. It might take awhile to deal with range anxiety, but if you have your routes properly planned this car makes a pretty good case to express your green credentials to the public.
For the rest of us, the Leaf makes a good secondary car, the one that’s used for short trips to work or to the shops because obviously you still need another non-electric car for the longer outstation journeys.
COMPARISONS
Nissan Leaf is not the only electric car you can find on Malaysian roads.
Renault Twizy
 can be rented for tours in Putrajaya while the
Renault Zoe
 is available for anyone to drive under the Comos EV car sharing program.
At the time of writing, you won’t be able to buy the either of the french vehicles from the Renault showrooms because they’re not for sale to the public, but
Mitsubishi
 should be able to source you the
i-MiEV
 if you want a more compact electric car than the Leaf. Even though the i-MiEV is less powerful, it is smaller and lighter than the Leaf so you shouldn’t be concerned about the car’s performance. The maximum range of 150 km is not so shabby either, but we think the best part of the i-MiEV is that it looks super
kawaii
 inside and outside.
Nissan Leaf

Mitsubishi i-MiEV

ENGINE
Type
AC synchronous motor
AC synchronous motor
Displacement
cc
N/A
N/A
Max Power
hp/rpm
107/N/A
66/4,000-8,000
Max Torque
Nm/rpm
254/0
196/0-3,000
STEERING
Type
Electrical power-assisted
Electrical power-assisted
DRIVETRAIN
Transmission
Single speed gear reduction
Fixed gear ratio Automatic
SUSPENSION
Type (Front / Rear)
MacPherson struts / Torsion beam
MacPherson struts / 3-link de Dion
BRAKES
Front
Ventilated disc
Ventilated disc
Rear
Ventilated disc
Drum
TYRE & WHEELS
Tyres
205/55 R16
145/65 R15 (Front) 175/55 R15 (Rear)
Wheels
Alloy
Alloy
DIMENSIONS & WEIGHTS
Overall Length
mm
4,445
3,475
Overall Width
mm
1,770
1,475
Overall Height
mm
1,550
1,610
Wheelbase
mm
2,700
2,550
Max Kerb weight
kg
1,493
1,085
Luggage Capacity (VDA)
L
370
N/A
FUEL
Battery
24 kWh lithium ion
16 kWh lithium ion
Maximum Range
195 km
150 km
PERFORMANCE
Max Speed
km/h
Above 140
130
0 – 100km/h
sec
11.5
N/A
PRICE
RM
180,566.18
On application

WILL I BUY IT?
Being an early adopter comes at a price. Currently it’s still an expensive buy, but technology is ever improving and eventually the batteries will be smaller and more powerful to allow for long distance travel. Driving the Leaf is like eating a bowl of salad, it’s refreshingly good and guilt-free, but it will still
leaf
 you craving for something more filling.
Taking the Leaf as a preview to more electric cars to come, I think it’s heading to the right path, and it’s a matter of time for those apparent deficiencies to be ironed out. In the mean time, I’ll just stick to cars with internal combustion engine.
IMAGE GALLERY


Ford EcoSport officially launched in Malaysia, two variants from RM93k

Ford has now officially launched their all-new
EcoSport
 compact SUV at the Symphony Lake Suite KLCC. The EcoSport was already available for test drive since their pre-launch activities a couple of weeks back, but now we get to know the finalized specifications and price.
As previously mooted, the EcoSport is powered by a
petrol 1.5-litre engine
 and comes in
two variants
,
Trend
 and
Titanium
 with RM 11,000 difference in price separating them apart.
QUICK FACTS
Name
Ford EcoSport

Segment
B-Segment SUV
Engine
1,498cc 4-cylinder Ti-VCT
Transmission
6-speed PowerShift dual-clutch gearbox
Max Power
108 hp @ 6,300 rpm
Max Torque
142 Nm @ 4,400 rpm
Price
RM 92,888.00 (Trend) RM 103,888.00 (Titanium)

The EcoSport is creating a new segment in Malaysia, there are no other manufacturers currently offering a
B-segment SUV
 in their lineup. As we all know the B-segment now is dominated by the usual Japanese sedans and a few hatchbacks so it’s refreshing to see a new niche been introduced here.
EXTERIOR
 The exterior of the EcoSport looks like a proper SUV, complete with a tailgate-mounted spare tyre but the EcoSport is actually a
front wheel drive
 vehicle. Even though the EcoSport is based on the Fiesta, the dimensions have grown in every direction.

The
wheelbase
 has been stretched to
2,519 mm
 which is 32 mm longer than the Fiesta’s and the total
 length
 is now
 4,273 mm
 including the spare tyre. The raised ride height with
 200 mm ground clearance
 contributes to the loftiness of the EcoSport which now stands at
 1,675 mm tall
, and it is also wider than the Fiesta, at
1,765 mm wide
. It’s reassuring to know that the EcoSport has a
water wading
 capability for up to
550 mm
, so driving through large pools of water shouldn’t be a problem for this compact SUV.
To differentiate between the Trend and Titanium variants from the outside, on the more expensive Titanium the roof rails are finished in silver, and the grille and foglamps surround are trimmed in chrome; but on the Trend the roof rails are in black while the grille is finished in silver. The side mirrors have integrated turn indicators as well as puddle lights on both variants. Both are fitted with
16-inch
 wheels wrapped in high-profile
 205/60 R16
 tyres but each variant has its own unique design.
INTERIOR
 Most of the switchgear in the EcoSport are derived from the Fiesta. The familiar steering wheel comes with controls for the audio system and leather-wrapped in the Titanium. There are no shift paddles behind the steering wheel but there is a rocker switch on the gearknob to shift up or down the gears.

The dashboard layout mirrors the Fiesta but the aircond vents are noticeably larger in the EcoSport. A Dot Matrix screen is still used to display the infotainment system which supports
Bluetooth connectivity
 and
 voice command
 with
Ford’s SYNC
 interface.
Titanium will get
keyless entry
 with
push start button
,
Electronic Automatic Temperature Control
 (EATC), auto-dimming rearview mirror, leather seats, adjustable lumbar support for the driver’s seat, driver’s seat armrest, and an extra 12V power outlet at the rear.
There’s ample space for all occupants in the EcoSport and storage spaces are plenty around the cabin. The
362 litre boot
 is accessed by a side mounted tailgate door instead of a upwards-opening hatch and the
60/40 splitting rear seats
 can be folded down to increase the load to 705 litres. A
powered sunroof
 is included too if you opt for the Titanium spec.
PERFORMANCE
 Only the
1.5-litre Ti-VCT 4-cylinder
 engine is offered in the Malaysian-spec, Thai-made EcoSport. It produces
108 hp
 at 6,300 rpm and
142 Nm
 of torque at 4,400 rpm.
Fuel economy
 is rated at
6.5 l/100 km
.
A
6-speed PowerShift
 dual-clutch gearbox sends the power to the front wheels enabling the EcoSport to travel from
0-100 km/h
 in
13.4 seconds
 while the
top speed
 is
 175 km/h
.
WHAT ELSE?
 The EcoSport is equipped with Traction Control, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ABS with EBD, Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Electronic Passive Anti Theft Alarm System (EPATS) with Immobilizer, and ISOFIX mounts as standard.
Additional safety equipment fitted to the Titanium spec apart from the dual front airbags that is already available in the Trend spec, there’s also side and curtain airbags, and driver’s knee airbag that brings the total airbag count to seven.
Buyers can choose from Midnight Sky or Frozen White for both variants, while Candy Red is exclusive to the Trend variant, Mars Red and Winning Blue is offered only on the Titanium variant. The
EcoSport

Trend
 is priced at
RM 92,888
 and the
EcoSport Titanium
 is priced at
 RM 103,888
. The EcoSport comes with
Ford’s Extended Service Plan
 (ESP) that provides three-year or 60,000 km
free maintenance
 and free replacement for selected wear-and tear items.
[divider]
PHOTO GALLERY


Video: Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk 7.5 facelift, Things You Need to Know

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has just introduced the facelifted
Volkswagen Golf GTI
. Spotting a refreshed look and a more high-tech cabin, here are Things You to Know about the Golf GTI facelift:
Priced at RM239,990, the Golf GTI is powered by 2.0-litre direct injection engine now pushing
227 hp
 and
350 Nm
. Propulsion is deployed on the front wheels via a six-speed DSG dual-clutch (wet clutch) transmission, good for a 0 to 100 km/h sprint time of
6.4 seconds
 onwards to a top speed of
248 km/h
.
Like all new Volkswagen models registered from 1 January 2018 onwards, every purchase of the Volkswagen Golf GTI comes with a
3-Years/45,000 km free service package
 as well as 5-Years Warranty and 5-Years Roadside Assistance.
IMAGE GALLERY


Jaguar Land Rover wins lawsuit against Evoque clone in China

While imitation is said to be the greatest form of flattery, Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) was not happy when a Chinese carmaker introduced the
Landwind X7
 which is essentially a copy of JLR’s successful
Range Rover Evoque
.
Since the Landwind X7’s
debut at the 2015 Guangzhou Motor Show, JLR has filed a case against the Chinese
firm for its doppelganger which was priced between RMB100k (RM64k) to RMB129k (RM83k),
significantly undercutting the Evoque’s RMB350k+ (RM212k) sticker price in China.
Facelifted Landwind X7
According to
AutoCar UK
, Beijing Chaoyang District Court ruled that the Landwind X7 (had to specify Landwind repeatedly to not be confused with the BMW X7) copied five unique features of the Evoque and the similarities between the two vehicles has confused consumers.
The court also ruled
that all manufacturing, sales and marketing activities of the Landwind X7 must
stop immediately and also demanded that Landwind to compensate JLR.
Pre-facelift Landwind X7
Keith Benjamin, Jaguar
Land Rover’s global head of legal, said: “We welcome this decision of the
Beijing Court, which further strengthens our confidence in investing in China
and in the fairness of intellectual property adjudication in the Chinese
courts. This ruling is a clear sign of the law being implemented appropriately
to protect consumers and uphold their rights so that they are not confused or
misled, whilst protecting business investment in design and innovation.”
JLR described the court ruling as a “first in the global car industry”. Now, will Porsche take legal action against the “
Porsche Macan Hybrid
” in China?


The Volvo Cars Safety Centre has been crashing cars every day for 20 years

We all know
Volvo
 as the “safety” brand – from the
invention of the three-point seatbelt
, to more recently
imposing a 180 km/h speed limit
 on all of their cars. But did you know that back home at the Volvo Cars Safety Centre in Gothenburg, the company is crash testing on average one car every day?
The Volvo Cars Safety Centre is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, which means, by our conservative calculations, Volvo has crashed more than 7,000 vehicles at the centre itself. It was one of the most advanced crash labs in the world when it launched in 2000, and still is today, according to Volvo.

The safety centre is a multi-functional facility that allows their safety engineers to recreate countless traffic situations and accidents, and perform tests that go beyond regulatory requirements, Volvo says. It is home to two test tracks, measuring 108 m and 154 m long respectively.
The shorter 108-metre test track is moveable and can be positioned at an angle between 0 and 90 degrees, allowing for crash test at different angles and speeds, or to simulate a crash between two moving cars. Cars tested on this test track can be crashed at speeds of up to 120 km/h.
Outside the test centre is where Volvo performs tests such as roll-over crashes and run-off road scenarios, where cars are “launched into a ditch at high speeds”. This is also where Volvo recently
dropped cars repeatedly from a height of 30 metres
 in order to let first responders hone their life-saving skills in extracting passengers out of cars in extreme crash scenarios.
Volvo uses a variety of barriers in order to simulate all sorts of scenarios. These include a massive 850-tonne barrier used for testing various frontal, rear, and side impacts, as well as about two dozen fixed and movable barriers such as a moose-like structure to simulate crashes involving these animals.
During the crash tests, these barriers, along with all of the test dummies on board, are fitted with sensors to allow the Volvo engineers to record and log the entire chain of events in detail. “Dozens” of ultra-high definition cameras also film the crash test from “every angle imaginable”, making sure the engineers catch every single detail during the crash.
Despite all of these advanced crash test equipment, Volvo says that all of these cars have already gone through thousands of computer simulated crash tests, including the ones we’ve seen with the
“Ultimate Driving Simulator”
.
“Being committed to safety is not about passing a test or getting a safety rating. Our commitment to safety is about finding out how and why accidents and injuries occur and then developing the technology to help prevent them,” said Volvo Cars senior safety advisor Thomas Broberg.
“No matter what the scenario, we can recreate it here at the Volvo Cars Safety Centre and analyse it in detail. For me, it is very inspiring to realise that for every hour of testing and analysis we put in, we get closer and closer to our ambition that no one should be killed or seriously injured in a new Volvo.”


Nissan Kicks goes on sale in China, but will it come to Malaysia? [+Video]

The
Nissan Kicks
 has been making waves in Latin America and the Middle East. Now, China is the latest country to receive Nissan’s latest subcompact crossover, one with an asking price of 99,800 RMB (approximately RM63.2k).
Based on the Almera’s V-Platform, the Kicks measures 4,295 mm long, 1,760 mm wide, 1,590 mm tall and has a wheelbase of 2,610 mm. The front gets the familiar Nissan signature V-motion grille, boomerang-shaped headlights and tail lights. The ‘floating’ roof gets finished in a contrasting colour, creating a two-toned setup just like the
Renault Captur
.

For the Chinese market, the Kicks will only be sold with the
 1.5-litre HR15 DE
 petrol engine mated to the tried and tested
 Xtronic CVT
. That’s the same engine as the Almera, by the way. Other markets meanwhile receive the 1.6-litre HR16DE petrol engine, the same engine that powers the 1.6-litre Grand Livina. The Kicks is strictly front-wheel drive for now.
Chinese buyers will be pleased to know that the Kicks is armed with some of Nissan’s finest active safety technology. No
ProPilot
 yet, but it settles with Intelligent Emergency Braking, Intelligent Lane Intervention, Intelligent Blind Spot Intervention and Cross Traffic Alert. It’s also equipped with Intelligent Trace Control, Intelligent Ride Control, Vehicle Dynamics Control and Intelligent Engine Brake.
IMAGE GALLERY


The iX M60 is BMW’s most powerful electric car yet

Following in the footsteps of the
i4
 (or almost every other ICE-powered model for the matter), BMW has now also given the
iX electric SUV
 the M treatment, with the reveal of the new iX M60 variant.
Thanks to its new M credentials, the BMW iX M60’s dual motor set-up now makes
455 kW (619 hp)
 and
1,015 Nm
 in Sport Mode – the latter boosting up to
1,100 Nm
 with Launch Control – making it not only the most powerful electric BMW yet, but also the torquiest BMW car ever.
The new output figures translate to a 0-100 km/h time of just
3.8 seconds
 – shaving off more than a second from the previous range-topping variant, the
iX xDrive50
, and matches that of the
X5 M Competition
! Top speed, meanwhile, is now electronically limited at
250 km/h
.
It still packs the same 105.2 kWh battery on-board, and even with the more powerful motors, the BMW iX M60 still boasts a WLTP-rated range of
566 km
 – about 60 km lower than the xDrive50 variant. The 200 kW DC fast charging is also retained on the M60 variant, which lets you top up the battery from 10% to 80% in just 35 minutes.
ALSO READ: BMW Malaysia unveils new DC Fast Chargers for public use – 180 kW, first location now open
Aside from raw grunt, the new BMW iX M60 also gains the adaptive dual-axle air suspension system with electronically adjustable dampers and automatic level control as standard. This is combined with the standard rear-wheel steering, M Sport brakes, performance tyres, and the aforementioned Launch Control to match up with its M-powered credentials.
Being the new range-topping variant in the iX line-up, the BMW iX M60 also comes with a wide array of standard equipment, including the BMW Laser Light headlights, Panoramic Sky Lounge LED Roof, 30-speaker
Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System
, and new sports seats with integrated headrests.
RELATED: BMW Concept XM – Munich’s first standalone M car since the M1 is a weird hybrid SUV
As for looks, the new BMW iX M60 gains several minor aesthetic updates to differentiate it from its “lesser” brethren, including the 21-inch Aero two-tone wheels (22-inch options), blue-painted M brake calipers, the optional BMW Individual Titanium Bronze exterior package (similar to those on the M340i in Malaysia), and of course the M60 emblem on the tailgate.
Unveiled as part of BMW’s CES 2022 programming (through a livestream from Germany), the new BMW iX will start at GBP111,905 (approx. RM629k) over in the United Kingdom, with deliveries to start sometime around June this year.
GALLERY


2017 Hyundai i30 teased ahead of Paris Motor Show [+Video]

The Hyundai i30 as we know it is the hatchback equivalent of the
Hyundai Elantra
. But did you know that the outgoing i30 was so impressive that it made left Volkswagen CEO, Martin Winterkorn,
feeling agitated
? Now, the third generation i30 is due, and it will make its debut at the upcoming Paris Motor Show.
What you’re seeing here are the few teaser pictures of the new i30.  It sports a hexagonal grille which Hyundai calls “
Cascading
” grille. The front gets a vertically mounted LED daytime running lights, while the rear gets a slimmer, more distinctive tail lamps.
The new i30 has enough powertrains to keep competition at bay. For starters, the regular i30 will receive a new range of
downsized engines,
 starting from a 1.0-litre petrol engine, a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol unit and a few diesel lumps. As for environmentalists, the i30 might be coming with the
Ioniq’s
 hybrid powertrain. How about performance freaks, then? There’s good news too, as the N Performance i30 variant will receive a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that is tuned to produce 260 horses.
Hyundai also confirmed that the i30 is strictly a
five-door hatchback
 for now, with an estate variant somewhere in the pipeline. The new i30 will benefit from Hyundai’s latest suite of safety systems and connected technology, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support.
The i30 will first be unveiled in South Korea on 7 September 2016 before going on public display at Paris in October. We wonder, will the current Volkswagen CEO, Matthias Muller, swing by the Hyundai booth this time for an impromptu ‘quality control’ visit?


Volvo XC40 compact crossover previewed, coming in 2018

Right after the SUV fad, the market for compact crossovers are mushrooming. Buyers abandon the usual saloons or hatchbacks to go for something that gives them security and confidence while on the road. Volvo seems to understand this trend, and will soon entice buyers with the all-new Volvo XC40 compact crossover.
Previewed exclusively on AutoCar UK, the XC40 remains a prototype (called the Concept 40.1) which was
previewed together
 with the V40 concept earlier in May. The XC40 will be part of the standard Volvo three-pronged 40-series assault, with the V40 hatchback and estate being in the pipeline. Developed under its new
 Compact Modular Architecture (CMA)
 platform, the XC40 should be ready to hit showroom floors in 2018.

What’s new here is the powertrain. The XC40 will debut with Volvo’s new modular
1.5-litre three-cylinder engine
, which is either petrol or diesel powered. The engines can be had with or without turbocharging, and has an electric motor to assist the engine. In a way, it follows the similar playbook of its larger
XC90
 sibling.
The XC40’s range topper will carry the T5 Twin Engine, a
 180 hp petrol
 lump combined with a
 74 hp electric motor
. Power will be delivered to the front wheels with the help of a
seven-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox
. The electric motor will also drive the gearbox shaft and the even-numbered gears. Relying on its battery alone will give a range of less than
50km
. No data on its fuel economy or performance have been released, but the folks in Gothenburg are confident that it will be a class-leading compact SUV against established rivals.
Now, closer to reality, the new XC40 plug-in hybrid should arrive on our shores sometime in 2018. Let’s not forget, Volvo has an assembling facility here in Shah Alam, and they have gone on the aggressive by introducing EEV-incentivised cars. When the XC40 reaches here, it could well be priced within the RM200k range. How’s that for a bargain?
Source:
Autocar UK
IMAGE GALLERY


Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors introduces new step-up financing plan – up to nine-year tenure

As part of its ‘Disctinctive Raya Promotion’, Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) today introduced a new step-up financing plan to offer “flexible and affordable” loan repayments of up to nine years, with a maximum of 90% financing.
With the new financing plan, monthly instalments for the Hyundai Kona starts at RM958, the
Elantra
 from RM1,098, the
Grand Starex
 from RM1,348, the
Santa Fe
 from RM1,388, and the
Sonata
 from RM1,548 – all based on a nine-year loan tenure at 90% financing.
“The bank’s recent implementation of stricter loan approvals has resulted in tougher loan approvals. We understand the predicament of our customers, therefore we have introduced this step-up financing scheme to help lower their monthly commitments when purchasing a new car and hopefully, help them in securing a loan,” said HSDM Managing Director, Low Yuan Lung.
“With every product and service offering, we aim to surpass our customers’ expectations by creating distinctive experiences and providing excellent value. We are constantly studying customers’ expectations of our products and offerings, and we will keep improving not only to meet them but also to exceed their expectations,” Low added.
As part of the Distinctive Raya Promotion, HSDM is also including a free Ogawa Smart Vogue Prime massage chair worth RM11,999 for every purchase of a 2020 Hyundai model, while stocks last. The promotion will run from now
until the 30th of June 2021
, coinciding with the extended sales tax exemptions period, which means you’ll get to save even more on your new car.
All Hyundai models come with a five-year/300,000 km warranty, as well as a 3-year/50,000 km free scheduled service package.
HSDM recently went on the offence with its car launches, with two new models – the
Elantra 1.6 Executive
 and the
new Kona facelift
 – launched in the span of just one month. HSDM have also already confirmed that more are coming, including the
Palisade
 and the Hyundai Kona N-Line – so keep your eyes peeled!


There’s more colours for the Nissan Note than in your sister’s wardrobe

There’s probably not one legitimate reason to but have you ever, by some chance, looked into your sister’s wardrobe? If a rainbow were to consummate with another, their offspring is what the wardrobe would look like inside.
Almost nothing can be as colourful, unless you’re talking about the vast variety of paint selection on the
Nissan Note
 e-Power.
While the press release we received may have been about the Nissan Note topping Japan’s sales charts in the first half of 2018 as the country’s best-selling new car with over
73,000 units sold from January to June
.
What’s more glaring though, is the colour selection available for the car. Whether you’re loud or introverted, it’s unlikely that you can’t find a colour that suits you. Although I’d imagine grey to be the colour of choice with most Japanese men; for obvious, socially-known reasons.
The Note was the first car equipped with Nissan’s e-POWER electric powertrain, introduced in Japan back in November 2016. Unlike conventional hybrids, the Note e-Power’s 1.2-litre engine does not power the wheels and is merely there to support the main powertrain – a
109 hp
 /
 254 Nm
 electric motor.
IMAGE GALLERY


Ferrari 296 goes GT3 racing, ditches hybrid motor for pure V6 ICE power

As the storm settles following the launch of the
296 GTB
and
 GTS
, Ferrari is now kicking things up a notch by unveiling its road car-based 296 GT3 racer to take on some of its fiercest rivals – including the all-new Porsche 911 GT3 R that was also revealed recently.
As the new flag bearer for the Prancing Horse’s road racing programme, the all-new Ferrari 296 GT3 has been give a long list of upgrades over the regular road-going GTB to ensure competitiveness in global GT3 race series, starting from 2023.
Aside from the massive rear wing and racing bodywork, the biggest change on the Ferrari 296 GT3 is the powertrain. The electric motor (and batteries) is now gone, leaving the 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine with full responsibilities to power the race car.
The engine makes
600 hp
 and
 710 Nm
of torque in this configuration (before balance of performance), and while it shares many similarities to the road car’s ‘piccolo V12’ engine, it’s now placed lower and further forward to lower the racecar’s centre of gravity while improving torsional rigidity, which is said to be about 10% higher than its predecessor, the 488 GT3.
Ferrari says that they have “fine-tuned all the engine’s internal fluid dynamics” and adopted specific components for racing purposes, and on top of that also worked on reducing the engine’s fuel consumption to allow for “more flexible race strategies and reduced intervention times”. Fortunately, Ferrari’s own strategy calls won’t be included here, especially considering the team’s recent blunders in Formula 1.
The 296 GT3 racecar also adopts a new and “specially developed” six-speed sequential manual gearbox in place of the road car’s dual-clutch eight speed, and is also set transversely (left to right instead of front to back in line with the engine) to improve weight distribution in the longer, GT3-specific aluminium chassis.
Tying up the performance changes are the bigger, upgraded brakes, racing-specific adjustable suspensions, and a fully-decked-out aerodynamics package that is said to offer 20% more downforce than the outgoing 488 GT3, while making the car easier to drive for its ‘gentleman’ racers.
Ferrari did not expand much on the 296 GT3’s exterior design changes, but from what we can see via the images, there’s a new carbon fibre front splitter, dive planes, a prominent swan-neck rear wing, massive diffuser, and a littering of winglets and extractors all around the outside.
RELATED: Ferrari 296 GTB is 2022’s best-looking production car, according to Car Design Award
Moving inside, Ferrari says that the cabin has also been “completely redesigned” with input from factory drivers and customers. Many of the controls – including the electronic clutch actuator – are moved onto the F1-inspired steering wheel, while the seating position has also been specifically set-up to ensure optimal visibility, both in the day and night since many of these GT3 races run over 12 hours.
On that note, Ferrari also made several concessions in the cabin to improve comfort over the 488 GT3, with more adjustability to suit drivers of different sizes and statures. There’s even an air conditioning system in the cabin, with airflow “designed to provide adequate ventilation in all conditions, helping the driver to concentrate during every stage of a race”.
The all-new Ferrari 296 GT3 is set to make its race debut at the 24 Hours of Daytona next year.
GALLERY


2016 Mazda3 facelift unveiled, gets new diesel engine and G-Vectoring Control

After
leaked images
 of the facelifted Mazda3 surfaced, Mazda has finally unveiled the updated 3/Axela compact car. New visuals aside, the new Mazda3 packs new technology, including two new diesel engines and G-Vectoring Control.
The facelift model is available as both the sedan and hatchback body styles, and changes are really subtle to be honest. Just as a refresher, the Mazda3’s facade gets a minimally revised grille, new headlights with redesigned LED daytime running lights and new fog lamps.

Inside, the biggest difference is the new
electronic parking brakes
which replaces the traditional lever-type handbrake. However, this feature is only available for the premium models such as the 2.2-litre diesel variants.
For the Japanese-spec 3 (known as the Axela in Japan), two SkyActiv-D turbodiesel engines are offered:
2.2-litre
 and
1.5-litre
. The latter is a new addition for the Japanese market, where this oil burner develops
 104 hp
 and
220 Nm
 of torque. The larger 2.2-litre lump meanwhile outputs
173 hp
and
420 Nm
 of torque. Both engines can be had either with a
six-speed manual
 or
automatic transmission
.
New to the updated 3 is the inclusion of
 G-Vectoring Control.
 This innovative software control system deploys the right amount of torque in response to steering inputs, providing integrated control of lateral and longitudinal acceleration forces. In layman terms, it applies the correct force onto each wheel depending on steering response, improving vehicle dynamics and ride comfort in the process.
Also to note, those who selected the 2.2-litre oil burner variant will receive the
 i-ACTIV all-wheel-drive
 system. In the safety department, it comes with
Adaptive LED Headlights,
Advanced Smart City Brake Support
and

Traffic Sign Recognition System (TSR)
. The latter

assists drivers by monitoring speed limits signs and warns the driver should he/she exceed the speed limit.
The facelifted Mazda3 is now available across Mazda’s showroom in Japan with prices starting from ¥1,760,400 to ¥3,310,200 (approximately
RM66k to RM124k
 based on today’s rates).
In a
related development
, Mazda Malaysia confirmed that no less than six new models will be introduced in Malaysia by 2017, with four of them being diesel variants of the
CX-3
,
CX-5
,
2
, and
6
. Last we spoke to Mazda, there were no plans to introduce the diesel 3, but that may all change with changing consumer trends.
IMAGE GALLERY


New Peugeot 308 THP previewed, arriving April 8th with estimated price of RM135k [+Gallery]

The 2014 European Car of the Year is here and no, it’s not a German car, but a French, rather. The all-new
Peugeot 308 Turbo High Pressure
 (THP) is set to make its official debut here on 8 April, and as far as we know, only one variant will be offered. It’s unclear whether the 1.6L VTi (that’s the non-turbo) engine will join the new 308 range, but that’s to be confirmed at a later date.

This new 308 sits 20mm lower to the ground and weighs considerably lesser (over 100kg lighter) and gets a cabin that is more upscale than ever. That translates to better agility and handling, while rolling on 18-inch wheels. The previous 308 THP rode on 17-inchers.
Under the hood of this C-Segment hatch, we’ll most likely get the outgoing Prince engine, but it’s state of tune is unknown as of yet. The AT6 six-speed gearbox gets an upgrade too, and is said to shift quicker and smoother while channeling drive to the front wheels.
The previous six airbag count will most likely be carried over as well, and the headlamps indicate that illuminating source could be either bi-xenon or
LEDs
. We were told that the new 308 will carry an estimated asking price of
RM130k
 and above, but we’ll know for sure when the car arrives. That’s on
8 April
 again, guys. Could this be your next car? Stay tuned for the latest updates on the 308!
[divider]
IMAGE GALLERY


MINI Countryman gains new entry-level “Pure” variant, RM20k cheaper

MINI Malaysia has just
introduced two new variants for their locally assembled MINI Countryman range, the
MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid Wired and MINI Cooper S Countryman Pure.
The Cooper S Countryman Pure sits as the entry-level variant bringing down the entry price point to RM228,888. The Countryman PHEV Wired, on the other hand, is an accessory package that bumps the price of a
standard car
 by RM18,000.
MINI Countryman Pure & PHEV Wired
Being RM20k cheaper than the
Countryman Sports
, the new variant loses out on the JCW aero kit, rides on a smaller set of 18-inch Black Pin spoke rims and gets a smaller 6.5-inch Touchscreen Display with Apple CarPlay. Other standard items include bonnet strips, LED headlamps, Carbon Black upholstery with Hazy Grey interior trim as well as powered driver’s seat.
No changes to the mechanicals, sporting the same 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with
192 hp
 and
280 Nm
 of torque paired to an 8-speed automatic transmission. The Cooper S Countryman clocks the century sprint in
7.4 seconds
 and registers
224 km/h
 at V-Max. The Sports suspension set up is also identical to the Countryman Sport.
Left: MINI Countryman Sports; Right: MINI Countryman Pure
As for the Wired package,
you’ll find new 19-inch Edged Spoke rims with run flat tyres, Leather Cross Punch
Carbon Black upholstery, powered front seats with memory function, MINI Yours steering
wheel and illuminated trims, 8.8-inch Touch Screen display, heads-up display
and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.
Under the hood rests a 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol with an electric motor and 6-speed automatic transmission that generates a combined output of
 224 hp
 and
385 Nm
of torque. It goes from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere
6.8 seconds
 while top speed is rated at
198 km/h
.
There are five exterior
colours offered for the Countryman PHEV Wired – Chilli Red, Light White,
British Racing Green and Melting Silver; all paired with a Black roof and Island
Blue paired with a White roof. The Countryman pure has an additional option for
Thunder Grey but all colours comes exclusively with a Black roof.
Both new MINI Countryman variants are covered with a 4-Years Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Scheduled Service and 5-Years Roadside Assistance.
IMAGE GALLERY
MINI Countryman Cooper S Pure

MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid Wired


BMW iDrive 9 – more touch-sensitive controls in favour of physical ones – right move?

BMW has released more details of its
new iDrive 9
 which will be first introduced in the
all-new third-generation BMW X1
 and the second-generation 2 Series Active Tourer through the BMW Curved Display. The new iDrive 9 will feature an Android Open Source software for faster and seamless operation, ditching the old Linux-based operating system.
The iDrive 9 features a new QuickSelect concept inspired by smartphones, that follow a ‘zero-layer’ principle that places all relevant functions and information on a single level. This allows for desired functions to be selected without having to go through the submenus.
With more and more car manufacturers removing physical controls in favour of touch-senstive controls, the iDrive 9 should be no different as BMW said the QuickSelect allows entertainment, contact lists, vehicle settings and other options to be selected, all by touch. Once the functions have been chosen, a quick tap on the home icon at the lower edge of the display is all it takes to return to the home screen.

Is removing all if not most physical controls, like what Volkswagen did the right way forward? It remains to be seen. Even Volkswagen realised it made a mistake and reverted against it. What was quite intriguing in BMW’s press release is that the system can automatically adjust what it displays based on user habits to display the right information in the right place, at the right time.
Not all new models will be receiving the new iDrive 9 according to BMW as those equipped with iDrive 8 (released in 2020) will be updated to iDrive 8.5. The iDrive 8.5 which will be on models such as the BMW
iX
,
i4
, X5, X6, X7 and the BMW
XM
 will continue to be powered by a Linux-based system.
RELATED:
2023 BMW XM V8 hybrid price revealed for Malaysia from RM 1.3m


Ran out of Bugatti merchandise to buy? Here’s a shaver.

There are Bugatti speakers, million Ringgit pool tables, watches to name a few on sale but if you’ve run out of Bugatti things to buy, here’s a special edition shaver made in collaboration with Gillette.
Evidently, a shaver isn’t just a shaver and shaving isn’t just shaving according to Procter & Gamble (P&G) who owns the Gillette brand.
“This collaboration is rooted in a shared passion for quality and sector-defining performance. Just as each Bugatti embodies the incomparable driving experience, this ultra-precise razor was developed not just to shave, but to create the utmost luxury at-home shaving experience,” said the company’s CEO.
The heated shaver is finished in Bugatti Agile Bleu, the same shade seen on the
Chiron Pur Sport
, while the handle is finished with Bugatti’s iconic emblem of over 110 years.
In Gillette’s words, “with the push of a button, the heated shaver is activated and delivers instant soothing warmth for a more sensual and comfortable shaving experience”. Does anyone feel the sudden urge to shave?
The heated razor set also comes with a magnetic wireless charging dock, blades, and branded cleaning cloth.
The press release even ended with ‘If comparable, it is no longer Bugatti.’ Think that says it all. It must be really expensive too, so expensive that they did not even provide a price.
GALLERY