Season 3 of the Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival kicks off this September!

Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR) Festival returns for its third consecutive season starting from September 2019 to April 2020.
With four rounds scheduled, season three of
TGR Festival
 covers both on and off track racing consisting of the
Toyota Vios Challenge
 One-Make Races as well as the
Gazoo Racing Velocity E-Sports
 series.
The Toyota Vios Challenge One-Make Races maintains its race format of two races per round for three race categories – Promotional, Sporting, and Super Sporting. Previous seasons’ on-track racing battle have been teeth-grindingly intense, and interestingly for season three Toyota promises ‘explosive on and off track racing for motorsports fans’. We’ll see about that.
Apart from the race events, visitors can expect a
Gazoo Racing Outlet
 which is said to showcase a line-up of special models inspired and derived from Toyota’s motor-racing involvement which includes the
Gazoo Racing Supra
.
Yes, the Supra will be there!
Mr Akio Takeyama, Deputy Chairman of UMW Toyota Motor said “Toyota has accomplished so much in motor-racing and we want to bring enthusiast and customers closer to the Toyota brand and products by leveraging on Toyota’s rich motorsports heritage.”
“Motorsports is not purely confined to competition but involvement at so many levels. It is also about cultivating greater interest, passion and appreciation and we believe the combination of on track racing, virtual racing, motorsports-inspired and derived models, and bringing the spectacles of motor-racing closer to the people will contribute to giving Malaysian motorsports a further boost,” added UMW Toyota Motor President Mr Ravindran K.
Round one for the TGR Festival season three will be in
Kuala Terengganu
 on the
6th and 7th September 2019
.
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Mazda3 facelift leaked, global debut imminent

Looks like the official unveiling of the midlife refresh for the
Mazda3
 is approaching soon, as seen here in the leaked images snapped by Japanese sources. Known as the Axela in Japan and the Mazda3 elsewhere, the model was introduced in 2013, making it three years old now.
This is the second leak on the facelift 3 following our
report
 two months back. As expected, the changes will be mainly cosmetic as Mazda’s excellent SkyActiv technologies are expected to soldier on for the years to come. Over these set of photos, what we have here are a clear representation of the facelift’s front, rear bumper, and interior. Changes are mainly minimal and subtle at best, with the front grille resembling more like
Mazda6
.

As a start, the chrome on the grille appears to be thicker and the badge is positioned slightly lower than the outgoing model. Another notable omission is the rounded fog lights, while the headlights remind us of the new
CX-9
.  Meanwhile at the back, the rear log lights have been redesigned and it uses a single exhaust setup instead of the dual-tip exhaust.
The changes remain subtle on the inside as it retains its premium touches, which is a good thing. However, the leaked pictures suggest a new feature to come – an electronic parking brake, ditching the conventional lever type for more stowage space.
As reported on
CarAdvice Australia
, the Mazda3 facelift, one of the most popular cars at Down Under, will be launched later this month. This means its Malaysian debut should either be scheduled towards the end of this year or early 2017.
[Source:
Livedoor
 blog and
CarAdvice
]
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The DeLorean has resurrected into a sleek EV coupe with gull-wing doors

As cool as the DMC-12 is, it’s been 40 years since the DeLorean first burst onto the scene, and it’s about time we got a refresh. And this time instead of being just a prop in a movie, DeLorean is
actually back and embracing the future
 with a new EV coupe called the Alpha5.
Much like the
original DeLorean
, the all-new Alpha5 is also penned by
Italdesign
, and takes on the shape of a stylish coupe. There’s still the massive gull-wing doors on each side, alongside the rear glass louvres and multi-spoke wheels to serve as nods to the original car. But aside from those touches, however, the rest of the design is thoroughly modern.
Instead of the boxy silhouette, the all-new DeLorean Alpha5 features a much more curvacious body, highlighted by a single wraparound character line that joins the slim headlights to the taillights at the back.
Gone is also the trademark brushed aluminium look of the original movie car; you now get proper glossy paint finishes, with a two-tone blacked-out roof to separate the glasshouse (with actual windows, by the way) from the rest of the bodywork.
RELATED: Someone actually stuffed a V8 into the front of a DeLorean
Unfortunately, you won’t find a flux capacitor at the rear compartment of the Alpha5. Instead, it’s fitted with two individual rear seats, making the reborn DeLorean a four-seater – and accessing the rear seats should also be a breeze, as the gull-wing doors open to a large cavity thanks to the absence of a B-pillar.
Up front, the DeLorean Alpha5 follows the trend of favouring on-screen controls instead of physical buttons, with most of the vehicle functions adjusted through a floating touchscreen on the centre console. The centre screen is paired to a large widescreen instrument cluster behind the flat-bottomed steering wheel, and that’s pretty much all you see on the dashboard aside from the wide full-width air vents.
Not much has been revealed in terms of powertrain yet, as the car is currently still in concept form, and will only be shown off in metal for the first time at the upcoming Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in August this year.
However, DeLorean does say that the “Base Performance Model” of the Alpha5 can hit 96 km/h (60 mph) from a standstill in
under three seconds
, onward to a top speed of
249 km/h
 (155 mph). 0-88 mph (142 km/h) takes around 4.35 seconds, if you’re thinking of time travelling.
The car will also come with a battery pack larger than 100 kWh, which should be enough to provide a driving range of
over 483 km
 (300 miles) based on the EPA test cycle. That is in part thanks to the DeLorean Alpha5’s relatively low drag coefficient of around 0.23 Cd.
The Alpha5 will be produced in Italy, with production slated to begin in 2024, while its powertrain sourced from a supplier from the UK. The DeLorean Alpha5 will be sold initially with a limited run of just 88 Launch Edition cars – we don’t need to explain the reference.
Following the Alpha5, the DeLorean Motor Company is also planning to extend its line-up to include a V8-powered coupe, electric sedan, as well as a hydrogen-powered SUV.
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Can you guess which model Toyota is teasing with this blacked-out thing?

Toyota USA has just released a
teaser video
 with the accompanying caption of “There’s something bold and mysterious in the darkness…stay tuned to discover more!”
The incredibly quick seven-second video just focuses on the Toyota logo, now in black, on an equally black paintwork.
The fitment of a camera unit informs that this is the rear of the vehicle, so that is a start. A quick check on the close proximity of the Toyota logo and reverse camera indicates this new model isn’t a Toyota GT86 or
Corolla
.
It also eliminates
the Camry
 and the
GR Supra
 as these models have their names spelt just under the Toyota corporate emblem. Hybrid models meanwhile have emblems with blue inserts, such as the Prius.
A sporty
Toyota RAV4
 coming then? Perhaps, as the model now packs 306 hp thanks to the addition of two motors and a large battery pack with the 2.5-litre Dynamic Force petrol engine.
The Toyota RAV4 Plug-in hybrid
 model accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just
6.0 seconds
. Electric range from the new 18.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack is rated at around 75 km based on WLTP cycle.
In Malaysia meanwhile, UMW Toyota introduced a higher-performance version of the evergreen Vios sedan, called the
Toyota Vios GR Sport
. It does not black emblems, but plenty of well-matched gloss black treatment on the side mirrors, 17-inch wheels and specially designed GR Sport bodykit.
Inside the cabin, we counted a total of eight ‘GR’ emblems. So, what could this all-black Goth-like Toyota special model be?


Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia sees an increase in sales for Triton pick-up

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM)
 today announced that from January to July 2020, they’ve sold over 4,008 vehicles. This represents a 1.7% market share, up from 1.4% from the same period (January to July) last year.
The Triton continues to carry the sales torch for Mitsubishi Malaysia, with an increased market share of 22.2%; up from 16.9% in the same period. The sales boost also means that the Triton is now the No.1 double-cab pick-up truck in Malacca, Penang and Kedah.
“Mitsubishi Malaysia is pleased to see positive sales take off after being under pressure by the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic. This is driven largely by the 100% sales tax exemption from the government which applies to both our locally-assembled SUVs the ASX Compact SUV and Outlander seven-seater SUV. The good sales also reveal brand and customer’s loyalty in these very tough times,” said Tomoyuki Shinnishi, Chief Executive Officer of MMM.
The good news is set to continue for MMM following their recent announcement that the
new Mitsubishi XPANDER would be launched by this year
. Aside from that, recently MMM also launched the

“Test Drive2U” online test drive booking

service
 where you can now book test drives without leaving your home.
Additionally, Mitsubishi owners can now also book their service appointments via the
Mitsubishi Connect app
, available on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store, for
free
.

The Mitsubishi CONNECT app allows customers to
schedule service appointments
 and
monitor their vehicle’s maintenance history
. Owners can also receive reminders on their next service and more conveniently, register more than one vehicle under one account.
In preparation for the arrival of the new XPANDER, a selected number of
Mitsubishi Malaysia showrooms will be upgraded to Mitsubishi Motor’s latest Visual Identity (VI)
 this year to maintain the company’s number one position in providing excellent after-sales service.
For the latest price list of Mitsubishi vehicles in Malaysia, click
 here
.


Volvo XC60 gets new Android infotainment system and subtle cosmetic updates

Volvo Cars have begun introducing the new infotainment system with Google apps and services built-in that is powered by Android into its existing model line-up.
Volvo Car Group is the first company to
team up with Google
 on integrating an infotainment system powered by Android with Google apps and services built-in, and the
fully-electri
c XC40
 Recharge became the first Volvo car to carry the system.
The centrepiece of the Digital Services package is access to Google apps and services, which offer hands-free help with Google Assistant, best-in-class navigation through Google Maps and a broad offer of native in-car apps via Google Play.
The company will gradually offer the new Android-powered infotainment system on the
S90
,
V90
 and V90 Cross Country models in the upcoming months.

The popular Volvo XC60 also get some minor styling updates on the exterior. The grille and bumpers receive subtle styling refinements, with the rear bumper now completely devoid of exhaust outlets.
The interior meanwhile gets luxurious leather-free choices plus other materials such as the City Weave textile for the increase in personalisation. A quick glance at the driver’s meter panel also shows a reworked interface, again, first seen in the XC40 Recharge.
Production for the new XC60 for key markets will begin in May 2021.
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The BMW iX is the brand’s Next Big Thing, and it’s unlike anything we’ve seen before

BMW has unveiled the iX, the brand’s next big frontier into the future of electrification and the “new age in mobility”, and well – it’s quite…
something
. Based on the
Vision iNEXT concept
, BMW says that the iX is a new interpretation of design, sustainability, driving pleasure, versatility and luxury.
We’ll start with what’s underneath it, because frankly, that might be the easiest thing to do here. BMW says that this reveal is only the “design world premiere”, so a large chunk of the technical details were still kept hidden until the car’s eventual launch in late 2021.
However, we do know that it is built on a new modular and scalable chassis, consisting of an aluminium spaceframe and a carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) inner structure. It will be powered by BMW’s

fifth-generation eDrive powertrain
, featuring two electric motors to make
at least 500 hp
, which will result in a 0-100 km/h time of
under five seconds
.
The battery pack will have a capacity of
over 100 kWh
 (at least on the range-topping variant), which should translate to a range of
over 600 km based on the WLTP cycle
, or a power consumption figure of 21 kWh per 100 km. Charging the battery from 10 to 80% capacity will take only 40 minutes – or 120 km range in about 10 minutes – using a 200 kW DC fast charging, while a complete charge using a standard 11 kW AC wallbox takes 11 hours.
Now with that out of the way, let’s dive straight into the design, because there’s a lot to take in here. The BMW iX being the production version of the Vision iNEXT concept, its design has obviously been toned down to make it more street friendly.
However, the key distinguishing features are all still here, including the controversial large kidney grille – now divided down the middle by a black plastic separator, the slim headlights and taillights design, squared off fender bulges, as well as the general dimensions and proportions.
Speaking of dimensions, BMW says the iX is similar in size to the
X5
, with the height of an
X6
, and a wheel house size of an
X7
. Compared to its fuel-chugging siblings, the A-pillars on the iX have been pushed forward, shortening the front end to provide more cabin space – BMW says the interior size is comparable to the range-topping BMW X7.
On the front, the LED headlights – standard on the model but upgradeable to BMW LaserLights – loses the iconic corona ring lights for an eyebrow-style daytime-running lights. The grilles are also shut off with a piece of acrylic-like material featuring a triangular mesh design, and coated with a layer of self-healing polyurethane to deal with stray rocks.
Due to the reduced requirement of cooling in an EV, the solid “grille” now hides the cameras and sensors for the autonomous driving features, as well as the heaters and washers to keep them clear. BMW calls these “shy tech”, concealing its useful functionalities almost in plain sight.
The clamshell-style bonnet is also completely closed off, as BMW says there is no need to access that space. As a result, the windshield washer reservoir is hidden under the BMW emblem above the grille for the owner’s access.
The largely unadorned sides with no obvious creases or character lines, minimised shutlines all round, minimal air ducting within the front bumper, flat underbody panelling, integrated door handles, and the tapered glasshouse, all contribute to the aerodynamic performance of the iX – BMW says the fully-electric SUV has a drag coefficient of 0.25.
The wheels are also optimised aerodynamically, measuring up to 22-inches in diameter to fill the X7-sized wheel houses. Buyers will also be able to order the iX in both standard and M Sport styling – the latter with a more exaggerated bumper design all round.
Inside the cabin, the iX is again unlike any BMW we’ve seen before, with a focus on minimalism to create a sense of space in the lounge-like interior. The instrumentation is now replaced by a large sheet of curved glass panel, suspended by hollow structures to give it a floating effect.
The glass panel is split into two, one side for the 12.3-inch instrument cluster, and the other a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment display – all tied into BMW’s next generation operating system. There’s no traditional centre console right underneath the dashboard, which frees up space for more leg room and storage options.
Adding to the spacious atmosphere is the large panoramic sunroof, which spans the entire length of the cabin with no supporting struts in between – the largest single glass surface ever fitted on a BMW – and can be optionally specified with electrochromic shading – a first in the industry.
Shy tech is also used within the cabin, as seen on the speakers integrated out of sight, heated surfaces, and the head-up display projected integrated seamlessly into the surface of the instrument panel. Most physical touch controls have also been replaced by haptic touch panels, though the iDrive controller has been retained, and is placed at the end of the centre armrest.
The BMW iX also features a hexagonal steering wheel, a first in a series-produced vehicle made by the company. The company says that the “track-inspired” contour helps with ingress and egress, while also giving the driver a better view at the instrument panels.
BMW says that the iX will feature an extensive list of advanced driver assistance and autonomous driving features – though as mentioned above, no information has been provided on what that actually consists of. For now, we know that the iX will be equipped with a “new technology toolkit” including super quick processors, powerful sensors, and 5G capabilities to enable these advanced features.
There’s still at least about a year or so until the car will be seen on the roads, which gives us a little more time to perhaps get used to how it looks. But barring that, the BMW iX sounds like a significant advancement in the company’s electrification efforts, and will be a big deal in the company’s plans moving into the future. What do you think?
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All-new Honda HR-V unveiled in Thailand, only in e:HEV hybrid powertrain

Honda Automobile Thailand has just officially launched the all-new Honda HR-V compact SUV and this new generation only comes with one sole powertrain- the e:HEV hybrid.
On the exterior design, Thailand also debuts the RS design, which is not available in Japan (under the
Vezel
 name) or Europe. The RS treatment gives the all-new HR-V a bold front grille with chequered chrome design, a thin red highlight on the RS lower grille with a pulse marking called ‘Amp Up’, gloss black lower body treatment like the current
HR-V RS
, exclusively-designed 18-inch rims, panoramic glass roof as well as smoke coloured tail lamp.
The all-new Honda HR-V RS e:HEV also comes with an exclusive Ignite Red metallic two-tone paintwork featuring a gloss black upper half. Available in two other non-RS variants which are E and EL, the all-new HR-V comes standard with LED headlamps and taillamps, auto-folding side mirrors and keyless entry with walk-away auto-locking.
The EL variant adds a powered handsfree tailgate with a walk-away auto closure system and LED fog lamps. Inside, standard features include synthetic leather seats, automatic air-conditioning system with front air diffusing vents and rear air vents, 7-inch driver’s digital instrument cluster, drive mode toggle switch, 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity as well as the versatile 60:40-split rear seat.
The range-topping Honda HR-V RS e:HEV hybrid meanwhile adds a wireless charger, 8-way powered driver’s seat, RS exclusive interior upholstery with red thread highlights, touch-sensitive overhead map lights and reverse-tilting left side mirror as an aid to parking.
As mentioned earlier, only one powertrain is available across all three variants of the new Honda HR-V- the 1.5-litre e:HEV hybrid engine that debuted in the Malaysian
Honda City RS e:HEV
. Overall power outputs have been raised to cope with the larger body of the HR-V, with the electric motor pushing out
131 hp and 253 Nm
 of torque (additional of 22 hp) and the 1.5-litre engine with Atkinson-cycle churning out 105 hp and 127 Nm (additional of 7 hp).
In the UK, Honda quotes a 0 to 100 km/h sprint time of
10.6 seconds
.
This Honda i-MMD full hybrid setup that focuses on propulsion through the electric motor with the petrol engine only complementing power to the system at high speeds sees a fuel efficiency of
25.6 km/L
 or 3.9 L/100 km. All variants are also fitted with deceleration paddles selectors (replacing manual gear selection function) on the steering wheel to adjust the regenerative braking force. One-pedal driving is not available in the new Honda HR-V e:HEV unlike the
Nissan Kicks
 or the recently launched
Daihatsu hybrid

system that could be offered in a Perodua Ativa.
One aspect that is standard (nearly) is the fitment of the safety systems. All variants come standard with the latest Honda Sensing ADAS suite that adds Lead Car Departure Notification (LCDN) as well as improved Collision Mitigation Braking System and Lane Keeping Assist System with ACC and Low-Speed Following. The Honda LaneWatch single-camera-based blind-spot monitoring system is available from the mid-range EL variant.
Prices are unannounced, with the company only planning to formally release the price of all three variants on November 19 th, with the HR-V E e:HEV variant is expected to continue to be priced under THB1 million (approx. RM125k) and the HR-V RS e:HEV under THB1.2 million (approx. RM150k).
Honda Automobile Thailand is also offering an extended hybrid battery warranty coverage of up to 10 years, while the overall hybrid system gets a five-year unlimited mileage warranty coverage.
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Mercedes-Benz Malaysia brings festive joy to Rumah K.I.D.S

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia recently celebrated an early Christmas with over 30 children from Rumah K.I.D.S in the 11th installation of the company’s annual social initiative known as “Christmas in a Shoebox”. The occasion was held at Bukit Jalil Golf and Country Club.

In collaboration with Nicol David Organisation (NDO), the event began with Mercedes-Benz Malaysia employees chauffeuring the children to the Bukit Jalil Golf and Country Club. Upon arrival, they were treated to exciting and interactive sports activities to nurture talent development, build team spirit, and cultivate positive values through sports.
“At Mercedes-Benz, we are committed to nurturing and empowering these little ones and hope to support them as much as possible to build a better tomorrow. Throughout our 11 years of this Christmas in a Shoebox initiative, our employees have come together to give back to the community in a meaningful way and we’re glad to be able to organise this with Datuk Nicol David through her new organisation,” said President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia, Ms. Sagree Sardien.
After the activities, the kids were treated to a sumptuous lunch and special appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus, played by VP of Sales and Marketing, Michael Jopp and Ms. Sagree. The gifts given out were purchased by Mercedes-Benz employees based on the children’s Christmas wish list.
Come next year, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia along with NDO aims to empower boys and girls from B40 and M40 families with three core values of positivity, confidence, and respect through sports and education. The children will be taught valuable life skills around self-awareness, healthy habits, while boosting their English proficiency.
“This is the new beginning for NDO and myself to give back to the local community and to share the knowledge that I gained from my squash career. I realised that I had other experiences from squash that I can tap onto and do new things to create an impact for the future generation,” said Founder of Nicol David Organisation, Datuk Nicol David.


Raize-Rocky twins to get hybrid system by year’s end. Same expected for Perodua Ativa?

By the end of this year, the ever-popular Toyota Raize and Daihatsu Rocky compact crossover / SUV twins would have been in the Japanese market for 24 months. A mid-cycle product or facelift is unexpected after a relatively short length of time in the market, but reports suggest the twins are having an update.
Apart from the usual cosmetic updates such as bumpers and rim design, the facelifted compact crossovers are expected to be fitted with a new hybrid system. According to Japanese auto news portals Mag-X and
Creative311
, the hybrid system is more than just a belt starter-generator (BSG) mild hybrid assistance set up.
World’s first Toyota Raize GR Sport introduced, but not in Japan. Find out where here!
Under the moniker
 e-Smart Hybrid
, the system features a series system, where a small capacity petrol engine is used as a generator to continuously charge the lithium-ion battery. Propulsion is meanwhile exclusively delivered by a strong electric motor.
The series-hybrid system is currently popularised by Nissan under the e-Power technology. In the new Nissan Note as well as Nissan Kicks, a 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine spins at a constant engine rpm to recharge the onboard batteries.
The electric drivetrain meanwhile is from the larger Nissan Leaf with changes made to suit the respective engine bay and vehicle mass. With the three-cylinder engine only operating when needed and at a prescribed speed, the
made-in-Thailand Nissan Kicks
 consumes fuel in a much more optimised manner, returning Toyota Prius-level of fuel consumption of 4.2 L/100 km or 23.8 km/L.
The Japanese news portals also indicated that e-Smart Hybrid system is a Daihatsu system, rather than from parent company Toyota. Toyota’s smallest hybrid system is found in the
all-new Aqua
 and
Yaris
, comprising of a 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine mated to two electric motor-generator units (MGU) to deliver a combined output of
116 hp
 whilst returning approximately 24 km/L.
Toyota Raize and Daihatsu Rocky launched in Indonesia, two choices of engines available. More information here!
As for the two compact crossovers, the turbocharged three-cylinder engine displacing just 1.0-litre consumes 18.9 km/L, a figure lifted from the
Ativa
’s brochure, Perodua’s version of the compact SUV.

Toyota and Daihatsu in Japan will launch the new facelifted compact SUV twins on
November 1st 2021
, according to the information sighted by the news portals. As for our Perodua Ativa, it’s relatively new, thus we do not expect the new powertrain to be introduced into Malaysia so soon.


Porsche Panamera “goes platinum” with new special edition model

In the music industry, “going platinum” means the record has sold more than one million copies. While we have no doubts that the
Porsche Panamera
 is a popular model, selling one million units is a huge ask for any car model, and even more so for a luxury sportscar maker like Porsche.
So what do we mean when we said the Panamera has gone platinum? Well, we’re referring to a special edition model called the Porsche Panamera Platinum Edition, of course.
As its name suggests, The Platinum model stands out from the regular Porsche Panamera with unique platinum-finished touches on its exterior. These include the 21-inch Exclusive Design Sport wheels, side air outlet trims behind the front fenders, as well as the model designation badges at the rear (plus ‘e-hybrid’ badges, if applicable).
But that’s not all, as the Panamera Platinum Edition also comes as standard with the Porsche Dynamic Lighting System Plus headlights, Exclusive Design tail lights, blacked-out window trims, and a set of black-painted “sports tailpipes”.
The new Porsche Panamera facelift is now available here in Malaysia. Check it out here!
Porsche has also loaded up the Platinum Edition’s cabin with several options as standard, including brushed aluminium trims in black, soft-close doors, 14-way comfort seats, heated rear seats, four-zone climate control, a lane change assist system, plus a Bose Surround Sound system.
The “Platinum Edition” lettering is also plastered on the brushed aluminium sill guards (in black), as well as the headrests. But the main highlight, according to Porsche, is that every Panamera Platinum Edition will come with an analogue clock in the dashboard as standard.
RELATED: The CKD Porsche Cayenne has been confirmed for Malaysia, priced from RM550k! Check it out here.
The Platinum Edition’s powertrains are unchanged, depending on which variant you chose. But as standard, all of them will come with the Adaptive Air Suspension system that ties into Porsche’s Active Suspension Management (PASM) system, alongside Power Steering Plus that automatically adjusts the weight and ratio of the steering wheel, making it easier to turn at lower speeds.
Availability of the different variants will depend on the market region, and Porsche says that the Platinum Edition will come in at a “particularly attractive price” – some outlets in the US calculates it to be around USD6,000 to 7,000 lesser than if you were to choose all of these options à la carte.
The Porsche Panamera Platinum Edition will celebrate its world premiere at the Los Angeles Auto Show on 17 November. Deliveries are estimated to start at the end of January 2022.
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Perodua’s new press stamping machine will allow your old Kelisa and Kancil to live on

With the unveiling of a new stamping machine at Perodua’s supplier IQM Sdn Bhd’s facility, Perodua has centralised parts production for its past models.
The move is one of Perodua’s many initiatives to help expand its supplier’s business and capabilities, bringing them one step closer to becoming global automotive suppliers.
Ultimately though, the move also seeks to continue supporting owners of past models with quality, quick and affordable parts through its Body & Paint business.
The 1,600-metric tonne hydraulic press stamping machine, a RM7 million by Perodua, will produce body parts such as bonnets, side outer panels, rear quarter panels, fenders, doors and roofs for past Perodua models like the first-generation Myvi, Viva, Kelisa and even the Kancil.
The dies, specialised tools used to cut or shape materials using a press, have also been moved to IQM. This allows Perodua to free up more space in its plant, simplify operations and reduce lead time and cost – making it easier to monitor its operations under one roof.
Since 1994, Perodua has sold over 3.7 million cars in Malaysia and currently, a 1/3 of demand for Perodua parts is for past models.
With all its
current models having over 90% local parts content
, Perodua is naturally the biggest buyer of automotive components in the country – having spent RM4.5 billion on parts so far this year out of an earmarked RM5.4 billion for the whole of 2019.
IQM has been a Perodua’s supplier since 2002. It currently supplies metal stamping, body assembly parts and brake tube components to Perodua.
It began making Viva parts when production of the model ended in 2014, and last year it began making parts for the second-generation Myvi on a dedicated new line.


All-new sixth-gen Honda CR-V leaked in China, shows off sleek new design!

Well well well, if it isn’t our old friend, the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MITT). Ahead of its scheduled launch later this year, images of the sixth-gen
Honda CR-V
 has now been leaked in full courtesy of the government’s website, giving us our first clear look at the all-new SUV.
photo: autolifethailand.tv
In terms of appearance, the upcoming sixth-gen Honda CR-V has adopted a sharper and – arguably – more minimalist design, with several styling elements inspired from the
all-new HR-V
. The front fascia now features a flatter, more upright design, characterised by the slim headlights that extend into a large, hexagonal front grille.
The top edge of the grille looks to be framed by a chrome trim underneath the bonnet shut line, with the horizontal fin-like element even bisecting the headlights itself, giving it a pretty unique appearance.
ALSO READ: Honda to introduce 30 new EVs by 2030, including two sports cars
photo: autolifethailand.tv
Onward to the rear, the taillights still feature the same L-shaped design as the
 current-gen CR-V
, but now sports a thinner light signature and a less-pronounced protrusion at the bottom corner, with the design as a whole reminding us a little of the
Volvo XC60
. The light signature gets broken up in the horizontal section into two L-shaped elements, which helps give it a little aggression when viewed from the back.
The entire rear fascia has also been cleaned up with fewer lines and creases, while the twin exhaust finishers at the bottom still feature the same trapezoidal shape that was first introduced in the current facelift model.
We don’t have the exact dimensions of the car just yet, but rumours and leaks previously have suggested that the upcoming all-new model will take up a larger footprint than the current CR-V.
photo: autolifethailand.tv
photo: autolifethailand.tv
Other details that were revealed as part of the filing include the usual Honda Sensing and Lanewatch cameras and sensors, as well as the ‘240 Turbo’ badging on the tailgate, which suggests that the all-new model will retain the same existing 1.5-litre VTEC Turbo mill – at least in China.
The ‘240’ most likely denotes the engine’s 240 Nm torque output – the same as the new
 VTEC Turbo-powered Honda HR-V in Indonesia
 – which, curiously, will be lower than the outputs of the
Honda CR-V that’s currently offered here in Malaysia
.
ALSO READ: The US-market Honda HR-V looks completely different, because it actually is
Previously-leaked patent image of the all-new Honda CR-V |
photo: autolifethailand.tv
The all-new sixth-gen Honda CR-V has also been rumoured to be offered as a hybrid model, likely borrowing the
e:HEV hybrid powertrain from the Civic
, with a 2.0 litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder petrol engine and a pair of electric motors (one driving the wheels) to offer a total of
184 hp
 and
315 Nm
 of torque.
More information of the all-new sixth-gen Honda CR-V will likely be revealed very soon, so keep your eyes peeled as we bring you the latest info!


Infiniti QX80 Monograph drops hints at Infiniti’s future design language

Infiniti has released a sole image of the QX80 Monograph, which will be fully revealed at the 2017 New York International Auto Show. The monster SUV is a design study of what could possibly be Infiniti’s new design language for their future production models.
Based on the existing QX80, the QX80 Monograph receives a new face with a bigger double-arch grille and a reshaped crescent-cut D-pillars. Roland Kreuger, President of Infiniti Motor Company said “QX80 Monograph shows our concept of luxury and style on the road, and is an exploration into how we could enhance our future Infiniti offering in the luxury SUV segment.”
They claim their latest design language combines “power with elegance, creating a commanding and sophisticated presence”. Well, if you ask us, the last thing that the QX80 needs is more road presence. This gigantic SUV easily eclipses the Range Rover if you put them side by side.


Video: Hyundai IONIQ 5 launched in Malaysia from RM199k, 5 Things

Hyundai Sime Darby Motors has launched the new
 fully electric IONIQ 5
 with three variants available. The Lite starts from
RM199,888
, Plus from
RM229,888
 and the Max from
 RM259,888
. All variants come with a 2-year/50,000 km warranty, while the batteries are back by an 8-year/160,000 km warranty.
Having seen the car in person, it’s safe to say that the IONIQ 5 is the most complete, feature-packed electric we’ve seen so far. In terms of features, it’s probably even more impressive than the
Mini Electric
 and the
Porsche Taycan
!

You get leg rests for the front seats, a movable ‘island’ (centre console), reclinable rear seats, front and rear boots, comprehensive safety features, and the most unique of all, charging points for your electronics under the seat and outside of the car!
In terms of size, the IONIQ 5 may look like a regular hatchback but in reality, it’s anything but one. It shares the same wheelbase the enormous
Hyundai Palisade
 and is almost as long as the BMW 7 series!
The most powerful ‘Max’ variant produces
305 hp
 and
605 Nm
 with an electric motor in the front and back, driving all four wheels. 0 to 100 km/h is sorted in just 5.2 seconds. The top speed for all variants is limited to just 185 km/h.
The Lite and Plus are fitted with a 58 kWh lithium-ion battery, while the Max gets a larger 72.6 kWh battery. As such the Max offers up to 430 km of electric driving range while the Lite and Plus will return up to 384 km.
Ever wanted to blow dry your hair while on the way to the office? Now you can!
Using a Type 2 AC (11kW) charger, the IONIQ 5 can be charged from 0 to 100% in just 5 hours. With the quicker DC charger, the IONIQ 5 can be charged up to 80% in just 18 minutes. Find out more in the video!
More images of the IONIQ 5
here
!


2023 Haval H6 facelift unveiled, looks suspiciously like a Lambo Urus

Haval
 has begun teasing a new mid life-cycle update model for its popular
 H6 SUV
, via images published on Chinese social media network Weibo. Reportedly launching in Q3 of 2023, the new 2023 Haval H6 features a completely redesigned front fascia that looks suspiciously like a
Lamborghini Urus
.
The headlights on the new 2023 updated Haval H6 seem to have retained the same shape as before, but with what appears to be a new, more intricate lighting signature for the daytime-running lights.
The biggest change, however, comes in the form of a new grille… or lack-thereof to be more accurate, as the new 2023 facelift update seems to have ditched the chrome grille of the petrol model, as well as the frameless grille look of the PHEV, for a completely unique look dominated by a wide and tall lower grille element.
RELATED:
Great Wall Motor to return to Malaysia in 2022 with Haval and Ora
No detailed specifications have been revealed so far, nor were there any images of the new 2023 Haval H6’s interior.
 CarNewsChina.com
 reports however that it’ll be more than just a mere facelift, as it measures some 58 mm longer and 54 mm wider than before.
The publication also says that it’ll be offered in petrol, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid guises, with powertrain options likely to remain unchanged from before, depending on markets.
Here in Malaysia, the hybrid variant was previously already
previewed for our markets during the Malaysia Auto Show 2023
. Underneath the bonnet was a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine paired to a dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT) that makes a combined
243 hp
 and
530 Nm
.
Given how Chinese carmakers often have different variants of the same vehicle for different markets, we’re unsure if this new 2023 Haval H6 facelift will eventually make its way into Malaysia. Do you prefer the new look, or the frameless one that was previewed in Malaysia earlier this year? Let us know in the comments below.
READ MORE:
Haval H6 HEV first impressions – Looks great, rides comfortably, and packs a whole lot of punch
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Haval H6 HEV previewed in Malaysia


Volvo used recycled fishing nets and plastic bottles to furnish this XC60

As the title reads, at least 25% per cent of the plastics used in every new Volvo car will be made from recycled material by the year 2025.
To demonstrate this possibility, Volvo unveiled a specially-built
XC60 T8 plug-in hybrid
 that’s identical to the existing model but with several plastic components replaced with those made of recycled materials.
“Volvo Cars is committed to minimising its global environmental footprint. Environmental care is one of Volvo’s core values and we will continue to find new ways to bring this into our business,” said President and CEO of Volvo Cars, Håkan Samuelsson.
In the specially-built XC60, its tunnel console is made from renewable fibres and plastics from
 discarded fishing nets and maritime ropes
. On the floor, the carpet contains fibres made from
PET plastic bottles and a recycled cotton mix
 from clothing manufacturer’s offcuts.
The seats also use PET fibres from plastic bottles.
Used car seats from old Volvo cars
 were used to create the sound-absorbing material under the car bonnet.
“Volvo’s move to integrate plastic waste into the design of their next fleet of cars sets a new benchmark that we hope others in the car industry will follow. Extensive recycling and reuse of plastic is vital to our efforts to turn the tide on plastic pollution,” said Head of UN Environment, Erik Solheim.
The recycled plastics ambition is the most progressive statement on the use of recycled plastic by any premium automotive manufacturer.
In terms of operations, Volvo Cars aims to have climate-neutral manufacturing operations by 2025. In January this year, the engine plant in Skövde, Sweden became its first climate-neutral facility. An organisation is climate-neutral when it can demonstrate that there are zero CO2 emissions from its operations.
IMAGE GALLERY


Ducati Monster 1200 & 1200 S unleashed in Malaysia, price from RM107k [+Video]

It seems to be in fashion now that every reputable metropolis needs to be invaded by some sort of Monster. In the case of our beloved KL city, Ducati Malaysia has unveiled yet another romping & stomping Monster. Bigger & meaner than those before. Right here at Monkey Garage Café, Bangsar, the Ducati Monster 1200 & Monster 1200s were unleashed for citizens of the biking community & the media to behold its power and beauty.
QUICK FACTS
Name
 Ducati Monster 1200 / 1200 S
Segment
 Superbike
Engine
 1198cc Testastretta 11º DS Ignition engine (135hp / 145hp, 118Nm)
Price
 RM
106,888 / RM 119,888

Recognising the need to satisfy Malaysian Monster fans with even more monstrosity,  Datuk Wira Hj SM Faisal Tan Sri SM Nasimuddin, Joint Group Executive Chairman of Naza Group of Companies states that
“ We are aware that there are still enthusiasts who want something more serious which is why we have decided to bring in the Monster 1200”
Being the more serious track machine of the Monster family, the Monster 1200 is still everything a Monster should be. Naked Performance bike, the unmistakable Trellis frame, the Monster really requires no further introduction as it has been an iconic motorcycle right from birth in 1992.
This incarnation of the Monster has a wheelbase that’s longer by 60mm for greater stability, handle bars 40mm higher & likewise, 40mm closer to the rider. Creature comforts include a height-adjustable seat that can be set between 810mm standard ride height all the way down to 745mm. A feature that’s a first for Ducati and has the lowest seat height ever. This is something most Malaysian bikers will be very pleased with. With better handling & rider ergonomics, this beast is surprisingly… friendlier than its other cousins.
However, do not mistake it’s improved manners for a lesser machine as it now packs a whopping
135hp
@ 8,750rpm &
118Nm
 of torque @ 7,250rpm. The heart of this Monster is a
1198cc Testastretta 11º Dual Spark (DS) Ignition engine
 derived from the legendary 1198 Superbike.  Yes, Dual Spark means TWO plugs per cylinder for a more efficient combustion in a shorter time. Engine management also dedicates a lambda probe to each header for precise fueling & electronically controlled mid-section valve in the exhaust system ensures optimal exhaust pressure throughout the rev range.
Other evolutionary changes to this Monster include constructing the chassis in a similar method used in the Panigale Superbike where the frame’s attachment points move directly onto the new engine’s cylinder heads. This compact frame design and large diameter steel tubing enables greater torsional stiffness than before. All of this in a 182kg package, just 15kg heavier than it’s 167kg Monster 796 brother.
This high tech monster further connects man and machine via
Ride-By-Wire
 ( RbW ) that uses Ducati’s innovative e-Grip throttle that works in varying degrees with the
Ducati Traction Control
 ( DTC ) system providing 3 riding modes – Sport, Touring & Urban.  The added
Ducati Safety Pack
 ( DSP ) includes a three-level ABS System & eight-level DTC.
The Monster 1200 is also equipped with a state of the art 1199 Panigale inspired
full-TFT instrument panel
. The display’s configuration is variable and automatically adapts to variations in environmental light, also changing according to the selected Riding Mode or is fully selectable by the rider. With all these technology as standard, this Monster takes great care to protect its master.
Ducati takes great pride in its product quality & reliability which is reflected in it’s convenient 30,000km major service interval. With this, the Monster 1200 is not only a worthy opponent on track day but also a reliable every bike.
Priced at
RM106,888
 the Ducati  Monster 1200 comes in two colours – Star White & Ducati Red. For RM13k more you get the even more accomplished Monster 1200s has front & rear Öhlins shocks & another 10hp of muscle (
RM119,888
).
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Geely-backed Lynk & Co gives lifetime warranty for their cars, and then some

At the global unveiling of the
Lynk & Co 03
, Geely Auto Group has made bold announcement that all Lynk & Co products will come with a Lifetime Product Warranty and free data traffic access as standard. The newly founded carmaker also confirmed that the
Lynk & Co 01 SUV
 is production ready and will enter the Chinese market later this year.
Lynk & Co will become the world’s first automaker to offer free internet connectivity for live-traffic view, and every vehicle purchased globally will benefit from this. As a statement of quality and confidence in their products, all Lynk & Co cars will come with a
lifetime warranty
 and roadside assistance. More details of the internet connectivity and lifetime warranty package will be revealed in due course. The Chinese brand will also venture into the US market by 2019.
Also in the pipeline is the
 Open-API (Application Programme Interface)
 where app developers can develop apps for Lynk & Co. Owners can then download these apps via a dedicated app store.
Inspired by the business models by fashion and tech giants, Lynk & Co are moving away from the conventional way of offering multiple trim levels and options. Instead, all cars will be offered in its highest specification. And like fashion, each season will feature a different ‘theme’.
Lifetime warranty, free internet, open-API and subscription-based ownership; all these are unheard of from any automaker, period. Surely, we can expect more details about its extremely ambitious business plans when the first Lynk & Co vehicle goes on sale come end-2017.
IMAGE GALLERY

Lynk & Co 03 Sedan

Lynk & Co 01 SUV


Porsche 918 Spyder: The pride of Stuttgart arrives in Malaysia – only 3 units

Der 918 Spyder

stole the limelight away from its two siblings that were being launched here in Porsche Malaysia’s latest flagship centre in Sungai Besi. This is the first time Malaysians have seen Porsche’s new halo car in the flesh thanks to Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP).
Malaysia will be receiving three units out of the 918 units that will ever be produced. It’s unconfirmed who the owners are.
QUICK FACTS
Name
Porsche 918 Spyder
Engine
4.6L V8 with 2 electric motors, one on each axle
Transmission
7-speed transaxle PDK
Max Power
887 hp + 2 electric motors @ 9,000 rpm
Max Torque
1,275 Nm
0 – 100 km/h; 0 – 200 km/h; 0 – 300 km/h
2.5 seconds; 7.2 seconds; 19.9 seconds
Fuel Economy
3.0 litre per 100km
Price
RM7,000,000 (est)
In march 2010, Porsche made the boldest decision to announce at the
 Geneva Motor Show
, that they will be making what is essentially a daily-driver plug-in hybrid hypercar. There were two target goals the development team had to accomplish. Firstly, the 918 Spyder must be able to achieve a
 fuel efficiency
 rate of
 3.0 litre per 100km
. Secondly it must be able to clock the
fastest lap time
 at the
 Nurburgring Nordschleife
 racetrack.
Two polar opposites on the automotive scale. At first, even the team wasn’t sure if this project was possible and with less than
1,000 days;
 the team had to develop, build and test one of the most ultra-lightweight, powerful Porsche hypercars ever built.
The 918 Spyder, uses a carbon fiber reinforced polymer
(CFRP)
 monocoque chassis taken from the rare, limited-edition run
Porsche Carrera GT
 supercar of which only 1,720 prime examples were built. The engineers made lightness
 an absolute priority
, and this is evident in the fact the they’ve managed to get up to
 80 percent of the total weight below the center line of the car
.
This exercise greatly improves the cornering speed of the 918 Spyder. Typically, in sports cars of this nature, the weight is a 50:50 balance. However, in the 918 Spyder,
56 percent
 of the weight is towards the rear of the car. Even the bespoke made rims are made from
magnesium
, saving up to
 14kg
 of weight. All in the quest for featherweight lightness.
Powering Porsche’s hypercar is a
Le Mans derived
 4.6L direct-injection V8 engine taken straight from the
RS Spyder
, after which was put on a crash diet by Porsche’s engineers to be further lightened and modified. The con-rods are made from forged
 titanium
; the walls of the cylinder have been
thinned
 down, the
crankshaft
 has been
redesigned
 so that an oil channel runs through it, saving unsprung weight whereas the airbox for the intakes is made from – you guessed it –
carbon fiber
.
The result is a whaling banshee that’s able to rev its engine all the way up to
9,000 rpm
. At a mere
140kg
, this engine is almost
100kg lighter
 than the heart that beats in the

Porsche 911
. The engine is built by a single engineer that takes up to
 20 hours
 to build from the scratch.
But that’s not all. The 918 Spyder, in addition to it glorious V8 engine, is also powered by
two electric motors
. Located in the front of the car, a
130hp
 motor is tasked with powering the V8 to life and is in charge of the
Stop/Start
 function of the car. The second motor is located at the back, providing a
160hp
 and works in tandem with the gasoline engine to ferry the 918 along very quickly, effectively making the 918 an
all-wheel-drive
 hypercar.
Made bespoke by
ZF
 in their state-of-the-art Friedrichshaufen factory in Germany, these motors start out in life as a
200-sheet

metal stator

motor
 core that is coiled over with copper wires, which is then attached to the rotor assembly that has
32 high-powered magnets
 built into the motor.
To keep heat away from these liquid cooled electric motors, the engineers had to find another way to divert the hot exhaust gases away from them. The solution was form following function. The
900°
C

gases emitted from the engine are channeled via the twin top mounted exhaust pipes.
Powering these immense motors is a
312 cell
,
6.8 kW/h
 lithium-ion battery pack. That’s the equivalent to almost
2,600
 AA batteries that you would normally find in your TV’s remote controller. The result of all of these technological advancements means the 918 Spyder has a combined output of
 887hp
 at
9000 rpm
 providing an unbelievable
1,275 Nm
 of torque. It does the century sprint in
2.5 seconds
 and reaches a top speed of
340kph
via a transaxle mounted
 seven-speed PDK
 gearbox. The Spyder would make Dominic Toretto proud with a quarter mile time of
9.8 seconds
.

The guys at Porsche have come up with a rather handy
Driving Mode Selector
 knob on the steering wheel that comes with five settings. The first is the
 E-mode
 following, which makes the 918 Spyder a
front-wheel-drive only Electric Vehicle (EV)
 with a range of up to
 20km
 and capable of speeds of up to 150km/h. Exhausting the charge in the battery pack, it switches over to the
H-Mode
, or Hybrid-mode which fires up the engine and uses a Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) and recharge the battery pack.
In
S-mode
 or Sports mode, the 918 comes to life by first activating its
Active Aerodynamic
 features such as the opening a flap in the front grille to allow cooling of the
406mm Brembo
 built carbon-ceramic brakes which is capable of braking the 918 Spyder from
100kph to standstill in 28.6 meters
and deploying its wing which is engineered to withstand up to
 3,200 newtons of force
– that or the weight of three adults sitting on it.
In
Race-mode
 the huge rear spoiler is inclined a further 8° to maximise downforce. Hitting the red button in the center of the selector, engages the
Hot Lap
 mode, which throws caution and energy conservation to the wind, all three elements are there for one reason only.
Speed
. And to coincidentally shatter the
 production car lap record
 at the Nurburgring circuit with an impressive time of
 6 minutes 57 seconds.
IMAGE GALLERY


BMW Shorties returns for the eighth time, offering RM75k and more

Short film aficionados out there, this one’s ought to get your attention. BMW Group Malaysia has just announced the return of the BMW Shorties, which is the country’s premier short film competition. Each participant would have a shot at winning the RM75,000 pot, which also comes with a list of other distinguished awards, should you win of course.
This year’s theme is ‘Connections’, and BMW Shorties are asking Malaysians to challenge their story telling abilities by exploring the essential human need of being connected, whether with other human beings or with the world around us.
Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia Mr Alan Harris said, “In today’s world of hyper connectivity, the challenge for society is to be able to discern and consume value from the clutter. The theme of “Connections” thus seeks to challenge Malaysians to seek out and explore the meaning of the connections which we have to one another, to our nation or to our world, through their own original perspectives.”
The panel of judges will comprise of experts from Malaysia’s film making industry,  including four-time BMW Shorties veteran and commercial film maker Lina Tan; feature film producer Nandita Solomon; actor, screenwriter, and director Bront Palarae; highest grossing Malaysian film director Chiu Keng Guan as well as one of Malaysia’s original and most celebrated short film directors, Tan Chui Mui.
Besides the RM75,000 production grant, the winner will be given recognition for his or her film making talent in a line-up of awards which includes Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Screenplay, Best Cinematography, Best Production Design, Best Editing and Best Sound Engineering as well as the ever popular People’s Choice Award.
Entries for the BMW Shorties is now open. For all the budding short filmmakers out there, you have until the 3 November 2014 to submit your short film entries. For further information regarding the BMW Shorties and how to participate, visit the
official BMW Shorties Facebook page
 or the
official BMW Shorties website
.
Best of luck, guys!


Alleviate your MCO strain with this BMW colouring book

We are now in Day 30 or rather Phase 3 of the Movement Control Order in Malaysia. It’s safe to assume that the restricted movement has taken a toll, both physically and mentally, not just on us adults and parents, but also to the kids who have been yearning but forbidden to go out – not comprehending the magnitude of the situation.
Car makers, aside from efforts to support hospitals and healthcare workers, have also taken the strain of the lockdown into consideration and interestingly, have prescribed art work and handy crafts to alleviate the strain of this lockdown.
It started off with
Audi and their colouring book
, then
 Toyota
 and
Mazda
curated paper crafts modeled after their cars and it’s now BMW’s turn. The models included in the collection includes the E30 BMW 3 Series, the 8 Series Gran Coupe, the BMW X5 and what is essentially the next 4 Series.
For higher resolution images,
get them here
! It’s a Czech Republican site so just allow Google to translate it and you’d easily find the attachments.


Check out what’s new with the newly-improved Toyota Avanza!

UMW Toyota Motor has just announced the arrival of the new 2019 Toyota Avanza with three variants available. There’s the range-topping 1.5S+ that replaces the 1.5G, priced at
RM87,888
, 1.5S at
RM83,888
 and 1.5E at
RM80,888
.
Colour options are Dark Red Mica Metallic, Silver Mica Metallic, White and Black Metallic.
As you can tell from the pictures, visually, the front end almost resembles that of a Vellfire, with two-tier Bi-LED headlamps, while its sleek profile is complemented with chrome trims below the front doors, a sharkfin antenna and power folding side mirrors which are only available in the 1.5S and 1.5S+ models .
Emphasis on refinement and aerodynamics are apparent in the new Avanza. Wind noise has apparently be reduced by reshaped side mirror covers, while a spoiler with LED stop lamps offer smoother air flow over the roof, reducing drag in the process.
While it may still be utilising the 1.5-litre Dual VVT-i engine with 105 hp and 136 Nm, certain measures have been taken to improve Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH).
The dashboard for instance, has been lined with sound insulating material to reduce penetration of engine noise. High damping urethane material has also been used for the tunnel silencer and rear deck silencer to reduce intrusion of gear noise from transmission & the vehicle differential.
Working with the original equipment tyre supplier, Toyota engineers were able to reduce road noise generated from tyres by about 1.5 dB through changes in tyre construction and rubber characteristics.
Speed sensitive wipers are now available at the front, while at the back the rear wipers can operate automatically when the reverse gear is selected – if the front wipers are in operation.
The new-look is also enhanced with new 15-inch light alloy wheel designs with full-sized spare wheels.
Changes to the new Avanza are beyond skin deep. Inside, you now get a two-tone dashboard, dark fabric seats with red accents, a multi-function steering wheel, a Digital Air-Conditioning System with Clean Air Filter, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity on the 6.75-inch capacitive touch screen.
Smaller details such as the meter cluster has also been given some attention, with the 1.5S and 1.5S+ getting Red accents while the 1.5E models are finished in Blue.
As for safety, the 1.5S+ gets the cream of the crop which includes a Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, reverse camera (standard in 1.5S+) and dual SRS airbags.
IMAGE GALLERY


Porsche Macan sneak preview in Malaysia, to launch in Q4 2014 [+Video]

Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP), the official importer of Porsche vehicles in Malaysia invited a handful of media personnel to the Porsche Centre Damansara for the sneak preview of Porsche’s first compact SUV, the Porsche Macan.
This smaller version of the widely successful Porsche Cayenne is born, bred and Made in Germany at the 500 million euro Leipzig plant. It inherits traits and styling cues from its siblings such as the sloping roof line of the 911 and even the headlights of the 918 Spyder hybrid supercar.
The word ‘
Macan
‘ means ‘
Tiger
‘, which comes from the Indonesian term ‘Barong Macan’ or Tiger Barong. A powerful compact SUV that’s ready to pounce.
“The Macan is the first sportscar in the compact SUV segment and it is the fifth model line-up for the Porsche brand. It combines all the typical Porsche driving characteristics with all the benefits of what a compact SUV can offer in the everyday life. I am certain that with the new Macan, we will be able to reach out to owners who are looking into joining the Porsche family for the first time as well as to excite our long-term customers,” said Arnt Bayer, Chief Executive Officer, SDAP.
The Porsche Macan will be available in four variants, the Macan (4-cylinder), Macan S, Macan S Diesel, and the top range Macan Turbo. All models come with active all-wheel drive and Porsche Traction Management (
PTM
).
For the first ime in a new Porsche model range, the Macan variants are fitted with the seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (
PDK
), which provides fast gear changes without any interruption in tractive force, short reaction times, low fuel consumption and outstanding shift comfort.
SDAP announced that the Porsche Macan will only launch in fourth quarter this year, most probably
August 2014
.
Porsche Macan (4-cylinder)

The entry level Macan is powered by a
2.0-litre in-line four
 cylinder turbocharged engine. It produces
237 horsepower
 and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds. It reaches at top speed of 223 km/h. Fuel consumption of the Macan is 7.2 litres per 100km, making it among the most efficient compact SUV in its class. Price estimated from
 RM460,000
.
Porsche Macan S

The Macan S is has
3.0-litre V6 biturbo
 engine delivering
340 horsepower
. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds (or 5.2 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono package fitted). It reaches a top speed of 254 km/h, and its fuel consumption figures are between 9.0 and 8.7 litres/100 km. Price estimated from
RM550,000
.
Porsche Macan S Diesel

The Macan S Diesel is the most economical of the three Macan variants. Powered by a
3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel engine
, delivering
258 horsepower
 with fuel consumption figures between just 6.3 and 6.1 litres/100 km. The Macan S Diesel accelerates from 0 to 100 km in just 6.3 seconds (or 6.1 seconds with the Sport Chrono package fitted), up to a top speed of 230 km/h. Price estimated from
RM560,000
.
Porsche Macan Turbo

The top range Macan Turbo is powered by the
3.6-litre V6 biturbo engine
 that is used for the first time in a Porsche model. It produces
400 horsepower
, which accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in 4.8 seconds. (or 4.6 seconds with the Sport Chrono package fitted). Fuel consumption figures are between 9.2 and 8.9 litres per 100km. Price estimated from
RM785,000
.
What else?

The Porsche Macan Turbo previewed at the Porsche Centre Damansara came straight from Thailand after its appearance in the recent Bangkok Motor Show. If you would like to have a sneak peek at the Porsche Macan Turbo, it will then be displayed at Bangsar Shopping Centre from May 21st to 25th 2014 for a public preview.
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VIDEO GALLERY
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Lexus creates world’s first heartbeat car with the RC F [+Video]

When it comes to paintwork, we can all trust Lexus to push the boundaries of conventional paint jobs, especially after displaying the stunning
yellow-on-silver LF-C2 Roadster Concept
 at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show.
This time around, Lexus Australia collaborated with creative agency M&C Saatchi in a brilliant marketing ploy to promote the
RC Coupe
. The one-off high performance RC F’s (5.0-litre V8; 470 hp & 530 Nm) body panels are finished in
electro-luminescent paint
 produced by US-based paint specialist, Luminor.
The paint on its own doesn’t glow, however. To activate the pulsating effect, various technologies have been integrated into the car to monitor the driver’s heartbeat. The data collected will then send electric charges through the bodywork, reacting with the paint to produce an intense glow that pulses in the exact same rhythm as the driver’s heart rate.
From the video above, it seems that the special paint only comes to life once your heart beats over 100 bpm, and the effects are nothing short of spectacular. It’s certainly an interesting and very innovative way of promoting a car, so hats off to Lexus at the land Down Under.
IMAGE GALLERY


All MINI cars updated for 2017, new instrument cluster and safety upgrades

MINI has just updated its entire model lineup with a range of new design, functionality and infotainment improvements from July 2017 onwards.
Starting from the MINI Clubman and Countryman, Apple CarPlay will be available for customers opting for the Media Pack XL and MINI Tech Pack. Connected to the 8.8-inch MINI Central Display, passengers will be able to access iPhone apps such as the
BFM official iPhone App
 via the MINI Touch Controller or the touchscreen.
All MINI models will benefit from a swankier instrument cluster that offers better clarity (the standard one is already impressively crisp) and enhanced graphics display. Cabin buttons and dials now get white illumination instead of orange. This new colour scheme is also applied onto the Heads-Up Display (HUD). Besides that, a new fuel level display on the right section of the instrument cluster offers improved precision and clearer display.
Switching between drive modes is now easier with a new toggle switch positioned underneath the climate controls. HUD settings will be accessed from a separate menu in the MINI operating system as well. Owners can now store individual height settings for the HUD, wing mirror adjustment and powered seats adjustment in the personal profile on the vehicle key.

Alertness assistant – a safety feature that reminds drivers to take a break when erratic driving is detected – will be introduced to the MINI 3 Door, 5 Door and Convertible. This however, is a cost option for the MINI Visual Boost screen, MINI Navigation or MINI Navigation XL package. Again, it’s only available from July onwards.
Locally, MINI Malaysia has just introduced the
second-generation MINI Countryman
 as well as the
updated MINI 3 Door and 5 Door
 that come with enhanced equipment. In case you are not aware, you can now own a MINI from RM1,348 a month with
MINI Full Circle Financing Programme
.
IMAGE GALLERY


Apple CarKey lets you unlock your car with your iPhone, to debut on 2020 BMW 5 Series

Apple iPhone users will soon be able to unlock and start their cars using just their phones, thanks to the new CarKey feature announced earlier today at the Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC). At the keynote speech, Apple also announced that the new
2020 BMW 5 Series
 will be the first vehicle to integrate this new feature.
BMW and Apple has had a long history of partnership. The German carmaker was the first to integrate the iPod in their vehicles, and more recently the first to offer wireless CarPlay. The new Apple CarKey joins the
 existing Android feature
 on BMW cars – where it’s called BMW Digital Key, enabling customers to unlock and drive their cars without having the physical key around.

After setting up the Apple CarKey, which can be done through the BMW mobile application, customers can unlock the vehicle by just tapping their iPhones on the door handle. Once the CarKey-enabled iPhone is placed on the smartphone charging tray, a sensor will detect the NFC chip in the phone, and you will then be able to start the car by pushing the start button.
Owners can also share their digital key access with up to five friends through text messages, including a configurable car access option (similar to the
Volvo Care Key
, just without the actual physical key) which restricts top speed, horse power, and even maximum radio volume. Access to the CarKey can be managed from inside the car, as well as through Apple Wallet – where the “key” is securely stored.
If your phone runs out of juice, don’t worry as the iPhone is designed with a power reserve that will keep your digital key functional for up to five hours. CarKey will also support the Apple Watch, which means you’ll be able to unlock the car without pulling out your mobile phone, too.
Apple and BMW says that they have been working closely with the Car Connectivity Consortium for a standardised digital key specification. The Digital Key Specification 2.0 using NFC has been released in May this year, while the companies are currently working on a digital key using Ultra Wideband technology to enable a true “keyless” experience.
BMW said in a press release that the Apple CarKey function will be enabled on almost every BMW model (except the 7 Series, X1, X2, X3, and X4, oddly) manufactured after July 1st 2020 in 45 countries.
Apple CarKey is compatible with the iPhone XR, iPhone XS or newer, as well as Apple Watch Series 5 or newer. Introduced as a feature on the forthcoming iOS 14 operating system, Apple says that the feature will be backported onto iOS 13 to allow for quicker adoption.
Locally, a BMW representative said that there is currently no scheduled timeline for the introduction of this feature in Malaysia, stating that it will likely not make it to our country this year.


Mitsubishi Outlander 2.4L CKD launched in Malaysia, more tech for RM155k

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) has finally introduced the locally-assembled Outlander 2.4L, joining the recently launched
Outlander 2.0L CKD
. The Outlander 2.4L CKD is now competitively priced at RM155k (OTR without insurance) – RM11,720 savings over the
CBU variant
 when it first went on sale in early 2016.
Despite the lower price tag, MMM has managed to introduce additional features to the Outlander 2.4L CKD.
New items
 include 18-inch two-tone multi-spoke alloys, an aerodynamic rear spoiler, 7.0-inch HD touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Air Gesture Control, All Round Monitor (360-degree camera) and Digital Video Recorder.
QUICK FACTS
Name
Mitsubishi Outlander 2.4L CKD
Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0L CKD
Engine
2.4-litre DOHC, inline-4 MIVEC
2.0-litre DOHC, inline-4 MIVEC
Transmission
INVECS-III CVT
Max Power
166 hp @ 6,000 rpm
143 hp
Max Torque
222 Nm @ 4,100 rpm
196 Nm
Price (OTR without insurance)
RM155,000
RM139,988
Elsewhere, standard kit remains the same for the locally-assembled Outlander 2.4L with full LED headlamps, LED taillamps, leather upholstery, electronic parking brake with auto hold, paddle shifters, eight-way powered driver’s seat, powered sunroof, powered tailgate with anti-pinch and an intelligent 4WD system.

Power comes from the same 2.4-litre naturally-aspirated MIVEC four-cylinder that belts out
166 hp
 and
222 Nm
 of torque. Drive is sent to all four wheels via an INVECS-III CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).
The Outlander 2.4L CKD continues to offer best-in-class safety features with
seven-airbags
, ABS with EBD, Brake Assist, Active Stability & Traction Control (ASTC), Hill Start Assist, ISOFIX mounting points and Rest Reminder.
Customers can choose from three striking colours – Red Metallic, Solar White and
Ruby Black
 – a newly added colour that is available exclusively for the Malaysian market. Every purchase of the Mitsubishi Outlander comes with 2-Years free service and 5-Years unlimited mileage warranty package.
IMAGE GALLERY


Geely Bin Yue goes on sale in China, gets AEB & ACC with Lane Keep Assist

The recently unveiled
Geely Bin Yue
 compact SUV is now officially on sale in China, once again setting a new benchmark in equipment and technology for the segment.
Sitting on the new global
B-segment Modular Architecture (BMA) platform
, the Bin Yue measures 4,330 mm in length, 1,800 mm in width, 1,609 mm in height with a wheelbase of 2,600 mm. One of the unique characteristics of the BMA platform is the optimised layout for a spacious cabin and the Bin Yue boasts a 68.7 per cent wheelbase utilisation rate for the interior.
On the outside, the Bin Yue takes much of its design cues from the larger
Bo Yue SUV
 albeit with a more dynamic and youthful approach thanks to the angular front splitters, quad exhaust outlets, rear diffuser inserts, dual-tone paint scheme, red painted brake calipers as well as a sporty rear spoiler.
The decked-out variant of the Bin Yue gets full adaptive LED headlamps with LED daytime running lights, LED fog lamps, carbon fibre finish body kit and 18-inch alloys wrapped in 215/55
Continental UC6
 rubbers.

Step inside and you will not believe that this is a car that rivals against the
Honda HR-V
 and
Mazda CX-3
 because the design and equipment levels are well above the competition. In the Bin Yue you’ll find dual tone leather upholstery with brushed aluminium inlays, 7.0-inch LCD instrument cluster display, multifunctional steering wheel with paddle shifters, 10.25-inch floating touchscreen display, electronic gear selector, 360-degree surround view camera,
air ioniser
, panoramic sunroof and more.
On higher grade models, the infotainment system is powered by the latest
GKUI (Geely Smart Ecosystem user interface)
 that comes with an AI engine with natural Voice Command. The system operates similarly to what will be available on the soon-to-be-launched Proton X70 except, the prompt on the Geely model is “你好，缤越” (Hi, Bin Yue).

The Bin Yue is available with two powertrain options – a 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder or a 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo. Both engines feature direct injection technology and are front-wheel driven. The 1.0-litre TD engine is found on lower grade models and is paired to a six-speed manual transmission to deliver
136 hp
 and
205 Nm
 of torque. Fuel consumption is rated at
5.3 L/100 km
.
The
1.5-litre TD engine co-developed with Volvo
 is paired to a seven-speed wet dual-clutch transmission to deliver
177 hp
 and
255 Nm
 of twist, capable of sending the Bin Yue sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in
7.9 seconds
 whilst returning a fuel consumption rating of
6.1L per 100km
.
As a global model, the 1.5-litre TD engine has covered more than
12 million kilometres of testing
 through Asia, Africa, Europe and North America while the seven-speed DCT has completed over 6 million km of testing. Ensuring the powertrain is able to serve global markets reliably.
Geely has also paid special attention to the Bin Yue’s Advanced Drivers Assist technologies, achieving
 Level 2 autonomous driving
 with the onboard tech. Using a combination of radar and high-definition cameras, the Bin Yue comes with ICC Intelligent Cruise Control with Lane Keep Assist, Lane Departure Warning and Blind Spot Detection. This allows the Bin Yue to follow vehicles at speeds of up to
150 km/h
 and can even perform lane changes automatically.

Geely’s G-Safety technologies are also available in the Bin Yue, bundling Electronic Stability Control, Autonomous Emergency Braking system with pedestrian recognition, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System with temperature readouts, HD driving recorder and others.
In China, there are six variants of the Geely Bin Yue on sale with prices starting from RMB78,800 (RM47k) for the base 1.0L (MT) to RMB118,800 (RM71k) for the range-topping 1.5L DCT. Every purchase of the new compact SUV in China comes with an 8-Years or 300,000 km mileage warranty.
IMAGE GALLERY


Volvo Cars scores an ‘A’ for climate change actions

Volvo Cars has been recognised for its sustainability strategy by global environmental non-profit CDP, securing an A-score for its actions aimed at cutting emissions, lessening climate risks and becoming a climate-neutral company.
This places Volvo Cars in the highest tier of CDP’s climate change list, together with only a smaller number of global companies. More than 13,000 companies around the world took part by disclosing data on their environmental impacts, risks and opportunities, and Volvo Cars’ high score reflects its position as a leader in environmental ambition and climate action.
“We are very proud to see that our hard work to cut emissions and becoming climate neutral is being recognised by CDP,” said Volvo Cars, head of global sustainability, Anders Kärrberg. “Receiving the prestigious A-score shows that we are on the right track, and hopefully we can inspire other companies to do even more.”
Volvo Cars aim to be a fully electric car maker by 2030, before the
ban of engines in Europe
, and plans an aggressive roll out of new-generation electric vehicles with the
replacement of the XC90
 due in the coming months. Volvo also sees the longer-term benefits of changing the seat upholstery to
non-animal material
.
RELATED: Volvo says making EVs generates up to 70% more carbon emissions compared to traditional engines. Using it wisely offsets it though. More here.
Shifting to electric power also means partnering with
Northvolt
 to develop and produce sustainable batteries that will reduce the carbon impact, responsible sourcing of raw materials and even remanufacture or reuse batteries. A new ‘Gigafactory’ will also be built in Europe, where the site will be powered by 100% clean energy and is expected to employ around 3,000 people, with production scheduled to start in 2026.
Volvo dealerships in Malaysia have a dedicated collection point for e-waste and more! Additional info here.
Volvo says that by producing batteries near its own manufacturing facilities in Europe, it can reduce the environmental footprint attributable to battery sourcing and production for its future cars.
At the recently concluded UN Climate Change Conference COP26, Volvo Cars became the first automaker to announce the introduction of an internal carbon price of SEK1,000 (approx. RM465) a tonne as part of attempts to ensure all future projects are sustainable. The company aims to be climate neutral by 2040.


Honda City Hatchback RS coming soon to Malaysia!

Normalcy is certainly coming back to Malaysia, as more and more product launches are being scheduled.
The latest car to hit the social media pages is Honda Malaysia and the new Honda City Hatchback! The company posted a short teaser video on their
Facebook page
 portraying a red City Hatchback.
Pausing the video reveals it’s an
RS e:HEV
 variant, the range-topping hybrid variant of the all-new Honda City range in ASEAN.
Our neighbours in Thailand and
Indonesia
 have already launched the City Hatchback as a replacement to the beloved
Honda Jazz
. In
Thailand
, the same Honda City Hatchback RS e:HEV is quite an expensive product even after factoring in generous incentives, approximately RM3k separating it and the entry-level Honda Civic 1.8 (FC).
To recap, the Honda e:HEV hybrid system combines a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, with the latter primarily driving the car. The engine will be used as a generator or supplement extra power when needed, such as overtaking. The combined system output is
109 hp
 and
253 Nm
.
Claimed performance figures on the Honda City sedan RS e:HEV, priced at
RM105,950
,
 are 0 to 100 km/h in
9.9 seconds
 whilst delivering ultra-low fuel consumption of just 3.6 litres per 100 km.
Being entirely based on the latest, seventh-generation
Honda City (GN)
, the City Hatchback model shares the same front design, front doors as well as dashboard of the sedan, similar to what Toyota did to the Toyota Vios (NSP151) to create the ASEAN Toyota Yaris.
Honda City Hatchback RS e:HEV, Thailand
For reference, the outgoing
Honda Jazz (GK)
 is priced at a range from RM72,512 to RM84,956, with the short-lived Jazz Hybrid i-DCCD available from RM75,000.
We will keep updating the website as we receive more information on the new Honda City Hatchback. It is indeed good to be heading towards normalcy!


VW Golf R “R-Performance Pack”, comes with Akrapovic exhaust!

If the fire-breathing
Volkswagen Golf R MK7.5
 does not sound as mean as you hope it to be, Volkswagen has the solution for you. They’ve introduced the R-Performance Pack that heightens the drama to another level with an Akrapovic titanium exhaust system and a high-performance brake system.
Developed in partnership with
Akrapovic
, the R-Performance titanium exhaust system is designed to give the Golf R completely new acoustic profile at high revs and gear shifts. Volkswagen claims that its akin to the sounds typically heard in
motorsports
. Besides the more aggressive aural note, the exhaust system saves
seven kilos
 at the rear axle compared to the standard system. Not to worry though, as the signature quad exhaust design is retained.
After helping the 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder TSI engine exhale better, you might want to have the
R-Performance brake system
 to go along with it. Besides shaving overall weight by
2 kg
, additional
high-performance brake pads
 with superior hot braking response ensures that the driver gets consistent bite during track outings. The R-Performance brake system is identifiable by the
silver brake calipers with R-lettering
.
Considering the sheer amount of Golf R owners opting for aftermarket exhaust systems to their prized ride, perhaps Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) should toy with the idea of bringing in the R-Performance Pack as an option when the
Golf MK7 facelift arrives to our shores
. An Akrapovic titanium exhaust backed by manufacturers warranty? Please, take my money.
IMAGE GALLERY


BMW to debut Android-based iDrive 9.0 infotainment system in 2023

BMW
 has confirmed that the ninth-generation iDrive (iDrive 9.0) infotainment operating system will be making its debut in 2023 – just two years since the
 iDrive 8.0 system
 was launched.
According to a report by
Autocar UK
, the new iDrive 9.0 software will forgo a Linux-based operating system for an Android-based package, which BMW says will enable faster and more seamless operational capabilities.
BMW iDrive 8.0 system on the
 BMW iX xDrive40
The iDrive 9.0 system will launch in the second-generation BMW X2, before being rolled out to other BMW models. It’ll feature a new “content-driven” interface that replaces the existing tile-based home screen, alongside updated touchscreen and voice-based functionality.
There will also be a new app store function, which will take advantage of the 5G connectivity capabilities for faster downloads, in addition to over-the-air software updates. Other refinements will centre around digital air-conditioning controls, which have reportedly been extensively reworked and simplified.
Aside from the X2, Autocar says that the iDrive 9.0 operating system will also be introduced to the
all-new BMW X1
 and
BMW 2 Series Active Tourer
. Both of these models have already removed the iDrive controller in the centre armrest, which could be a hint of what’s to come in the next-generation software.
However, according to BMW Group senior vice president of electronics and software, Cristoph Grote, the iDrive controller – which has been part of every new BMW since 2001 – will still continue to be present on other upcoming BMW models.
Mini
models due for launch in 2023, including the new hatchback and a production version of the Aceman concept, will also receive the new iDrive 9.0 system, albeit with a Mini-specific interface.
For the current BMW models with iDrive 8.0, a software updated dubbed iDrive 8.5 will be delivered via over-the-air updates to provide a similar interface and functionality to the upcoming iDrive 9.0 operating system, but without the new app store function.


Honda Malaysia introduces new CR-V Black Edition

Honda Malaysia has introduced the CR-V Black Edition available exclusively with the 1.5-litre TC-P 2WD variant, priced at RM161,913.99. The new variant adds to the existing three variants of 2.0L 2WD, 1.5L TC-P 2WD and 1.5L TC-P 4WD.
The CR-V Black Edition features a front grille, front bumper garnish, rear bumper garnish and 18-inch alloy wheels in black. The exterior is finished in Crystal Black Pearl.
There’s a one-of-a-kind Honda CR-V “Type R” for sale in Malaysia. Check it out here!
Inside, items like the steering wheel, TFT display and air-con vent surrounds are finished in Piano Black. Also complementing the Black Edition theme are the centre console, dashboard and door trims that sport a black wood garnish.
Elsewhere the headlining is now also in black, along with the front seats that are finished with a “Black Edition” embroidery.
Under the hood, output remains the same at 193 hp and 243 Nm from a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine paired to a CVT gearbox.
Find out more about the facelift Honda CR-V here; now cheaper across the board!
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Only the most loyal Alfa Romeo customers can buy this pair!

Alfa Romeo will be bringing two ultra-exclusive models to the 2018 Geneva International Motor Show (GIMS) – the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio and Giulia Quadrifoglio Nurburgring Edition (NRING). Only 108 units of each model will be made for collectors and most loyal Alfa Romeo customers worldwide.
Building on the standard Quadrifoglio specification, the NRING series gets a bespoke Circuito Grey paintwork, carbon-ceramic brakes, carbon fibre front badge, mirror caps and side skirt inserts, tinted windows and a bare carbon roof.

Inside, the limited model gets new carbon shell Sparco racing seats with red stitching, Mopar automatic transmission knob with carbon inserts and Alcantara steering wheel. Standard equipment reads Harman Kardon premium audio package, 8.8-inch Alfa Connect Connect 3D Nav infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Both cars are powered by the same 2.9-litre bi-turbo V6 delivering
510 hp
 and
600 Nm
 of torque. The
fastest SUV around the Nurburgring
 completes the century sprint in
 3.8 seconds
 onwards to a top speed of
283 km/h
. The hot sedan, on the other hand, gets from 0 to 100 km/h in
3.9 seconds
 with a top speed of
308 km/h
.
IMAGE GALLERY


Mercedes-Benz begins production of 108 kWh battery for EQS, to launch in mid-April

Mercedes-Benz has started producing high-performance batteries for its latest EQS limousine, the fully-electric model of the S-Class family.
The high voltage lithium-ion battery cells are manufactured at Mercedes-Benz’ latest dedicated Stuttgart-Hedelfingen plant, as part of the Unterturkheim location in Stuttgart, Germany. In addition to scaling up the EQS battery production, this new electric-mobility technology competence centre called
Mercedes-Benz Drive Systems Campus Unterturkheim
also focuses on the

development of highly efficient motors, power electronics and software testing.
The upcoming Mercedes-Benz EQS will feature one of the highest gross energy content battery in the EV segment with
108 kWh
, targeting a range of
700 kilometres
. The launch of the EQS will be followed by the EQE, which will also source its batteries from the Stuttgart-Hedelfingen plant. Besides its CO2-neutrally produced cells, the EQS battery cell chemistry includes nickel, cobalt and manganese in a ratio of 8: 1: 1, cutting the cobalt content to around 10%.
The MBUX Hyperscreen will be the key highlight in the upcoming Mercedes-Benz EQS
All sub-assembly systems including the massive 141-cm
MBUX Hyperscreen
 will then be moved to highly advanced Factory 56 in Sindelfingen, where the final assembly of the Mercedes EQS will take place. The full unveiling of the all-electric limousine is slated for
April 15th
 with deliveries to customers expected in August.
Mercedes-Benz launched the entry-level
EQA
 in January that, in the most general terms, is a fully-electric version of the latest GLA crossover. Its smaller 66.5 kWh battery pack is manufactured by Mercedes-Benz subsidiary Accumotive in Kamenz. This battery plant, which was also the company’s previous battery production competence centre, supplies battery pack for the
EQC
 SUV model as well as various
plug-in hybrid
 models.
Mercedes-Benz is investing more than one billion Euros in the establishment of a global battery production network that consist of nine factories at seven locations on three continents, including one in
Thailand
 operated by Thonburi Automotive Assembly Plant (TAAP).
The investment into the extensive battery plant network is to support the
mid-term product offensive
 of over 10 fully electric models and 25 plug-in hybrid models by 2025, with EV models doubling by the end of this decade.


JPJ, PDRM extends deadline on “discounted summons” after overwhelming response

The response to the discounts of up to 80% on traffic summonses by the Road Transport Department (JPJ) and the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) has been beyond overwhelming, to the point the organisers at the KL Convention Centre (KLCC) had their counters closed and even been issued a fine of RM1,000 for failing to adhere to SOPs.
As such, both the JPJ and PDRM have extended the deadline of the “promotion”, which was originally scheduled to end yesterday.
 JPJ
will extend the offer of up to 80% discount to
December 15th
, this Wednesday. Summonses can be paid at the JPJ payment counters at their state offices, branches, or UTC and cashless payment is encouraged.
Terms and conditions of the discounts have not been changed, with discounts only offered to compoundable offences.
Meanwhile, due to the sheer volume of unpaid summonses as well as lack of transaction channels (we have seen postings of long queues at traffic police stations), the
PDRM
 has extended their deadline to
December 31st
.
Apart from physically performing payments at PDRM Traffic payment counters as well as Police Contingent Head Office (IPPK), summonses can be paid at Maybank ATMs, Pos Malaysia as well as on the ‘MyBayar Saman’ smartphone application.
In a separate announcement on
Bernama
, PDRM has seen 2.3 million summonses cleared over the four days of promotion, amounting to RM109 million. The Inspector-General of Police Datuk Sri Acryl Sani Hj. Abdullah Sani has instructed his team to add more payment counters nationwide to reduce congestion.
The
promotion
 to encourage road users to settle their unpaid summonses was in conjunction with the government’s “100-Hari Aspirasi Keluarga Malaysia” (AKM) programme that was held in KLCC over the weekend.
[Source:
PDRM/Facebook
,
JPJ Malaysia/Facebook
]


2017 Kia Stinger GT unveiled, gets 3.3L bi-turbo V6, 365 hp and 500 Nm!

Kia has really taken their tagline “The Power to Surprise” a notch further here. Unveiled in all its red glory is the Kia Stinger GT, currently the most powerful variant of the new Stinger lineup.
Available either with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo (Stinger) or a 3.3-litre twin-turbo V6 (Stinger GT), the Korean
gran turismo
is evidently the most hotly anticipated model in recent Kia history. The Stinger rivals cars such as the BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe, and the recipe is broadly similar as well.

The
 3.3-litre V6 Lambda II
engine pumps
365 hp
 at 6,000 rpm and
 510 Nm
 of torque from 1,300 to 4,500 rpm, and it is strictly
rear-wheel drive
. This combo rockets the car from 0 to 100 km/h in
5.1 seconds
, which is just tenths of a second slower than the comparable straight-six 440i Gran Coupe. It will only come with an
eight-speed automatic transmission
 (developed in-house). Can we get one with a six-speed manual, Kia?
Also introduced for the first time is the Dynamic Stability Damping Control. This essentially allows drivers to choose between five drive modes which alter damping and agility, which varies from Personal, Eco, Sport, Comfort and Smart. Kia went with MacPherson struts for the front and a multi-link setup for the rear.
All hot bits aside, the Stinger GT sits on 19-inch alloys as standard – 225/40 front, 255/35 rear. Resting snug behind the wheels are a pair of quad-piston Brembo brakes up front and a dual-piston setup for the rear. The two axles sit 2,906mm apart, making the wheelbase even longer than the Mercedes-Benz CLS and Lexus GS. Fascia treatment include full LED headlamps, LED DRLs and fully functional air ducts.
The cabin is delightfully premium and is unlike anything from Kia we’ve seen of late. The centre air-conditioning vents mimic those found in the
Audi TT
, but minus the fancy integrated controls. The cockpit gets a sporty three-spoke leather wrapped steering wheel and analogue instrument clusters. Being a Kia, the Stinger GT comes fitted with a host of passive and active safety systems, including Advanced Smart Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist and Multiple Advanced Driver Assistance Systems.
For audiophiles, you can opt for the 15-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system. It outputs 720 watts through an external amplifier and gets subwoofers mounted underneath the seats. A next-generation QuantumLogic Surround Sound software is tasked with extracting signals from original recordings and apparently “redistributes them into an authentic, multidimensional soundstage that’s full of clarity and detail.”
Well, Kia, you’ve certainly piqued our interest. Will it ever come to Malaysia, though? We have a funny feeling that it just might.
IMAGE GALLERY


Waze says the worst time to refuel during Ramadan is between 3 to 6 pm

Waze, the social navigation application has just released their rush hour guide for the upcoming Ramadan month and listed some tips for road users to beat the crowd in Klang Valley during this fasting month.
One tip that is most
relevant to all of us is the best and worst times to visit the petrol station.
According to Waze, if you want to avoid a potential queue be sure to be at the
stations before 8 am and after 7 pm. Peak hours at petrol stations are between
3 to 6 pm where most people would refuel on their way home after work.
If you have to visit the malls, 7 pm onwards is when the crowd starts to disperse while 5 pm to 6 pm is when shopping centres tend to be busy as shoppers tend to be there before
Buka Puasa
.
Those looking during to dine at fast food joints and are not a fan of crowds (like yours truly) will have to wait out till 9 pm onwards. Waze estimates that 4 pm to 7 pm would be peak hours as individuals are getting ready to
Buka Puasa
 with their friends and family.


Long-wheelbase Range Rover Evoque L debuts in China

When we say China, the first thing you’ll think about are the extended China exclusives. Okay, probably not, but the Chinese market does have a certain weird affinity with the long-wheelbase models, and it’s now the turn of the Range Rover Evoque to get the stretch.
The long-wheelbase
Range Rover Evoque
, called Evoque L, is
160 mm longer
 than the standard-spec model. But despite its extended length, they did not fit another row of seats into the SUV. It’s still a five-seater, though the rear passengers can now enjoy an
additional 125 mm of legroom
.
The new Range Rover Evoque L will be available in three new colours: Belvia Green with Narvik Black roof, Seoul Pearl Silver with Rossello Red roof, and Santorini Black with a Seoul Pearl Silver roof. And just in case you didn’t notice the longer rear doors, there’s also an ‘L’ badge on the C-pillar to tell you that it’s a long-wheelbase Evoque.
As standard, the Range Rover Evoque L in China comes with the R-Dynamic trim, which includes sportier bumpers, along with the 20-inch machined alloy wheels.
The all-new Range Rover Evoque is now available in Malaysia. Everything you need to know is available here!
Inside, the new Range Rover Evoque L gains an upgraded dual-10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with the marque’s new InControl OS 2.0 operating system, along with a large panoramic sunroof. The rear seats, along with the increased legroom, can also be electrically reclined to up to seven degrees backwards.
Otherwise, the long-wheelbase Range Rover Evoque is pretty much identical to the standard-wheelbase car that it replaces.
The long-wheelbase Range Rover Evoque starts at 430,000 yuan (~RM279k), which is understandably 55,000 yuan (~RM36k) more than the outgoing standard-wheelbase model.
Customers can also pair their new car to Land Rover’s new wrist-worn smart key bracelet, which allows the doors to unlock automatically when in close proximity, alongside functioning as a watch with its OLED touchscreen.
There are no indications that the long-wheelbase Range Rover Evoque will be sold outside of China for the time being, but seeing how BMW has started expanding their LWB line-up to other countries and finding success, it’s perhaps not long until other carmakers follow suit too.
The BMW 330Li M Sport is now launched in Malaysia. Find out more here.
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New Smart #1 Pulse AWD variant debuts – 400km range, 0-100km/h in 4.5 secs

Soon to enter the Malaysian market, the
 Smart #1
 is now available in one more new variant, the Smart # 1 Pulse. It is an all-wheel-drive (AWD) variant, which is a first for the non-Brabus version of the Smart #1. Introduced in Europe first, the Smart #1 Pulse is positioned between the ‘Premium’ and the ‘
Brabus
’ versions of the car.
Although housing a dual-motor setup, it isn’t exactly the same powertrain as the Smart #1 Brabus. The Pulse’s 0-100 km/h acceleration time is listed at
4.5 seconds
, which is slower than the Brabus’s 3.9-second century sprint time. The Pulse is also quicker than the normal rear-wheel drive Smart #1 which clocks the century sprint in 6.7 seconds.
Its power outputs aren’t specified, but the faster acceleration times do suggest a larger total output compared to the RWD Smart #1. With the extra motor on the front axle, the range of the Pulse is a little bit lower at
400 km
 compared to the RWD version’s 440 km range (WLTP). That’s not much range sacrificed for AWD traction.
As for battery and charging, the Pulse supposedly still houses the same
66-kWh
 battery pack. The battery can be charged at a maximum rate of
 22 kW
 with AC charging and
150 kW
 with DC charging. The former takes less than
3 hours
to charge from 10% to 80%, while the latter takes less than
30 minutes
 to do the same.
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Appearance-wise, the Smart # 1 Pulse can be differentiated by its different wheel design. Like other versions of the Smart #1, the wheels are 19 inches in diameter. Exterior highlights on the Smart #1 Pulse include concealed door handles and a hands-free power tailgate.
Interior highlights of the Smart #1 Pulse include ambient lighting, a wireless mobile phone charger, and a head-up display. Additionally, the new smart #1 Pulse is equipped with a wide range of active safety technologies such as Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), and further intelligent features like an automatic parking assistant.
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Smart Europe CEO, Dirk Adelmann said, “We are especially excited for the #1 Pulse as it offers a further all-wheel drivetrain option for European customers. Our development and production setup enables us to stay on top of changing demand situations and incorporate according solutions for our customers quickly.”
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