Jaguar updates the F-Type range, now includes AWD and 6-speed manual [+Video]

Purists can finally breathe a sigh of relief, as Jaguar’s sexy F-Type finally gets a
six-speed manual transmission
. Along with the gearbox, Jaguar also introduces the
All-Wheel Drive
 (AWD) F-Type to complement the existing rear-wheel drive F-Type.

QUICK FACTS
Name
Jaguar F-Type Coup
é / Convertible
Engine
2,995cc supercharged V6
Transmission
Eight-speed Quickshift automatic [Six-speed manual]
Max Power
350 PS @ 6,500 rpm
Max Torque
450 Nm @ 3,500 – 5,000 rpm
0-100 km/h
5.3 seconds [5.7 seconds]
Top Speed
260 km/h

Name
Jaguar F-Type S Coup
é / Convertible
Engine
2,995cc supercharged V6
Transmission
Eight-speed Quickshift automatic [Six-speed manual]
Max Power
380 PS @ 6,500 rpm
Max Torque
460 Nm @ 3,500 – 5,000 rpm
0-100 km/h
4.9 seconds [5.5 seconds]
Top Speed
275 km/h

Name
Jaguar F-Type S AWD Coup
é / Convertible
Engine
2,995cc supercharged V6
Transmission
Eight-speed Quickshift automatic
Max Power
380 PS @ 6,500 rpm
Max Torque
460 Nm @ 3,500 – 5,000 rpm
0-100 km/h
5.1 seconds
Top Speed
275 km/h

Name
Jaguar F-Type R Coup
é / Convertible
Engine
5,000cc supercharged V8
Transmission
Eight-speed Quickshift automatic
Max Power
550 PS @ 6,500 rpm
Max Torque
680 Nm @ 3,500 rpm
0-100 km/h
4.2 seconds
Top Speed
300 km/h

Name
Jaguar F-Type R AWD Coup
é / Convertible
Engine
5,000cc supercharged V8
Transmission
Eight-speed Quickshift automatic
Max Power
550 PS @ 6,500 rpm
Max Torque
680 Nm @ 3,500 rpm
0-100 km/h
4.1 seconds
Top Speed
300 km/h

Like the existing eight-speed Quickshift transmission in the F-Type, the
six-speed manual
 was
 developed by ZF
. The six-speed transmission is not only compact in size, it’s also highly efficient thanks to its innovative
semi-dry sump lubrication system
.
The shift mechanism, right down to the placement of the gearknob in the center console, has been thoroughly engineered to provide the driver with a “completely engaging driving experience”. Jaguar also paid attention to the the position of the brake and throttle pedals for heel-and-toe shifts.
However the manual box option will be available
 exclusively on the V6 RWD F-Type
 models only, so unfortunately you still can’t have a manual V8 F-Type.
Meanwhile, the
AWD system
 is offered in the
 V6 F-Type S
 and the
 V8 F-Type R
 models and only coupled with the
 eight-speed auto
. The AWD F-Type is rear-wheel biased with
 Intelligent Driveline Dynamics
 (IDD) providing ‘torque on demand’ to deliver torque to the front wheels only when required to enhance traction. Jaguar has fitted stiffer front control arm bushes and recalibrated the dampers and springs up to 10% stiffer in the AWD F-Type.

Externally the AWD F-Type gains a more prominent
power bulge
 on the bonnet and new side vents along with discreet
AWD badges
. The addition of the manual and AWD variants bring the F-Type range now to a total of 14 derivatives.
The F-Type Coupe was recently launched here in Malaysia last month in both V6 S and V8 R guise. You can read about the Malaysian-market F-Type Coupe
here
.
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Mercedes-Benz Malaysia announces new battery prices for E300 BlueTEC and S400h

A couple weeks ago, the local social media scene was set alight by an
 image of a service bill
 where the replacement of lithium-ion batteries in a Mercedes-Benz E300 BlueTEC was quoted at RM120,960.
Mad figures considering the car retailed for under RM350k when it was new back in 2015. Math prodigies will be able to tell that it’s
a third of the value
 of a car that has probably depreciated to, again, 1/3 of its original value.
The E300 BlueTEC diesel hybrid
launched in 2015
.
In other words, alternatively you can buy another used E300 BlueTEC than replace the battery.
In weathering the storm, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has not only introduced the new
Hybrid Battery Extended Warranty
 programme where owners of the two hybrid vehicles can opt to extend their battery’s warranty by an
additional four years at RM2,688
.
One of the
most impressive limousines
we’ve driven/sat in.
The warranty provides 100% coverage for the repair and replacement of the lithium-ion batteries for up to
eight years or 180,000 km
, whichever comes first.
Also revised is the price of the lithium-ion batteries for the E300 BlueTEC hybrid
(RM50,000)
 and S400h
(RM65,000)
.
For more information, contact Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s Customer Care Centre at 1-800-88-1133 from Monday to Friday (8am to 8pm). Alternatively, they can be reached at
[email protected]
.


Say goodbye to charging ports with the innovative Nissan Note e-POWER

A must-have feature on any electric vehicle this day is a charging port, but this problem is challenged by infrastructural development more than anything else. In Malaysia, you have to be at selected places to be able to charge your car, and sometimes this can be troublesome. Nissan meanwhile, has a solution that could eliminate this problem, and they’re calling it the e-POWER system.
The system is displayed for the first time through this JDM Nissan Note e-POWER, and this range extender concept is rather simple. Conventional electric cars solely rely on their batteries, whereas hybrids weigh more because they have an engine, electric motor, a power generator and a battery pack to operate. These batteries also usually take up boot space, reducing practicality.
Nissan’s innovative solution to this is by employing a 1.2-litre three-cylinder gasoline engine to deliver electrical juice to the battery. It uses a smaller battery size (1/20 the size of that in the Nissan Leaf) which doesn’t eat into cabin space. This concept works brilliantly for compact cars as demonstrated in this Note. The benefits are substantial as not only it matches the drivability of an EV, it also claims to consume fuel as efficiently as a conventional hybrid.
Nissan has hinted that this concept could be applied beyond compact cars, but with a slightly bigger battery. We can safely say that the Note e-POWER won’t be coming to Malaysia anytime soon (if ever). However the question becomes, with Nissan venturing into the electrification space, what will Edaran Tan Chong Motor do? Can the company offer locally assembled hybrids in the near future?
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SpyBuzz: 2018 Hyundai Sonata facelift leaked, looks like a winner!

The
seventh-generation Hyundai Sonata
 is now due for a facelift, and based on these sketches, the Korean D-Segment sedan will get quite the visual enhancements.
Based on yet an evolutionary take of Hyundai’s
 Fluidic Sculpture 2.0
 design language, the front fascia is flanked by a new cascading grille design, just like the new
Elantra
. The front fog lights have also been revamped with a stacked design, and the headlights are new as well. The rear end now looks miles more aggressive, with slimmer tail lamps and a sportier exhaust finishing.
If you look closely, the word “Turbo” can be seen on the leftmost sketch. In the United States, the Sonata is offered with a variety of engines, particularly the 2.0-litre twin-scroll T-GDI producing a good 245 hp. This engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.
Of course, Hyundai has yet to reveal the facelifted Sonata, but that will happen real soon. Its much improved looks will surely help Hyundai Sime Darby Motors (Hyundai Malaysia) move the model up the sales charts, but will it ever come with the turbocharged engine? Well, only time will tell.


On 2 February 2019, Proton delivered over 1,000 units of the Proton X70

In conjunction with Proton’s
recent Chinese New Year open house that took place across 74 Proton 3S & 4S
outlets, the national carmaker also delivered over 1,000 units of the Proton
X70 SUV to customers in a single day.
The open house was attended
by Proton customers from all walks of life to celebrate the Lunar New Year as
well as an opportunity to reach out and connect with X70 customers. Customers who
took delivery of their new SUV were briefed with a comprehensive presentation on
how to maximise the unique features of their new car.

 There are
four variants of the X70 on sale
 today – Standard 2WD, Executive 2WD, Executive 4WD and Premium 4WD with prices ranging from RM99,800 to RM123,800. All variants are powered by a 1.8-litre turbocharged four-cylinder TGDi engine and 6-speed automatic transmission pushing out
183 hp
 and
285 Nm
.
Features that are standard across the range include smart keyless entry, dual-zone automatic climate control with Clean Air Ioniser, LCD instrument cluster,
8.0-inch touchscreen GKUI infotainment system
, reverse camera, six USB charging ports, rear air vents, six airbags, electronic stability control and Hill Descent Control.


Mercedes-Benz EQ is gunning for Tesla

One thing is for certain in the automotive industry; you are only as good as your last product. By 2025, Mercedes-Benz will be retailing no less than 10 fully-electric models under its EQ (for Electric Intelligence) umbrella, and the first model to take the fight to Tesla (which currently offers three models) will be based on the Concept EQ you see here.
Said to unite ‘the genes of an SUV with the dynamic character of a coupe and a dash of shooting brake at the rear end’, the Concept EQ doesn’t bear any resemblance to existing Mercedes-Benz models despite sporting the familiar three-pointed star on its LED-illuminated front grille and tailgate.
Underneath that smooth, wind-cheating monolithic shape are underpinnings that belong to a modular platform with variable building blocks to accommodate different body styles and battery capacities.
The clean, uncluttered theme carries on inside, where there is a distinct absence of hard switches and knobs (though there are physical stalks on the steering column). Instead, you are enveloped by vibrant touch-sensitive OLED screens that would make Samsung or LG blush, even the door handles and power windows are touch operated.
The rear passengers aren’t neglected and they get 24-inch portrait-type TFT screens incorporated into the front backrests. To this end, we hope that Mercedes-Benz will figure out a way to make digital displays resistant to fingerprint smudges.
While the Concept EQ is a four-seater, expect the production model to accommodate a fifth passenger when it rolls out of a Mercedes-Benz production plant at some point next year (probably late 2019). The fully-electric EQ C, as it is rumoured to be called, will offer 500km worth of electric range from its floor-mounted 70kWh battery pack.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a Tesla challenger if it didn’t offer respectable performance; how about 400hp and 700Nm, all-wheel drive and zero to 100km/h in less than five seconds, complemented by cutting-edge connectivity and autonomous technology from Mercedes-Benz.
The Concept EQ is making its debut in South East Asia as we speak. If you want to experience the concept vehicle up close and try out the Mercedes-Benz C350e and E350e EQ Power models, head on to The Waterfront at Desa Park City this weekend, 4
th
 to 7
th
 May 2018, between 10am to 6pm.
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First Drive: 2016 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid, a home run no one saw coming

Hyundai Sime Darby Malaysia (HSDM) became nothing short of an overnight sensation following the official launching of the
Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid
. For the longest time, the Korean brand dipped way below the radar, eclipsed by rivalling brands whose fresh crop of products offered greater value than anything in the Hyundai stable. That is, until now.
In other markets,
the Ioniq is offered in three configurations
: 1.6-litre hybrid, 1.6-litre plug-in hybrid and an all-electric version. Hyundai chose to go with a dual-clutch transmission setup, straying away from the usual CVT route employed by most other prominent hybrid carmakers. Apparently, it makes driving a tad more fun, and with 265 Nm on tap (for the Malaysian 1.6L hybrid), it’s hard not to get excited.
QUICK FACTS
Name
Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid 1.6 HEV
Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid 1.6 HEV Plus
Engine
1,580cc; four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle Kappa GDI
Transmission
6-speed dual clutch transmission
Max Power
104 hp @ 5,700 rpm
Max Torque
147 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
Hybrid Motor Output
43 hp & 170 Nm
Combine Max Power / Torque
140 hp / 265 Nm
0 – 100 km/h; Top Speed
11.1 seconds; 180 km/h
10.8 seconds; 180 km/h
Fuel Consumption
3.4 litres per 100km
4.0 litres per 100km
Price
RM103,390.27
RM114,165.87
Hyundai engineers used aluminium and high tensile strength steel wherever possible to bring overall weight down. They’ve also placed the battery pack under the rear passenger seat, yielding two salient outcomes: a more usable boot space and
lower centre of gravity
. In fact, the Ioniq’s centre of gravity is 3mm lower than the
Volkswagen Golf
 (already one of the lowest in its class), imbuing the car with better dynamics and high-speed stability than most other cars in its segment.

So it’s fun, drives more confidently, powerful and is practical enough for the vast majority of people. Now, while many find the Ioniq ravishing, I myself am not generally fond of how eco cars look. If I had to choose between the Ioniq and the
fourth-gen Prius
 based on looks alone, I’d steer more willingly towards the Japanese. But the Ioniq’s design is explicitly functional. Compared to the razor-cut Prius, the Ioniq is far more curvaceous on the whole, which by logic would make it less aerodynamic. But it isn’t.
In fact, it slices through air just as efficiently as the Prius with a drag coefficient of 0.24. Achieving this calls for clever aero know-how, so what Hyundai did was supply the car with a full-flat underbody, active air flaps in the front grille, air inlets just next to the LED DRLs and lightweight alloy wheels that all work in tandem to eradicate drag-creating air vortices. The wheels, although not the prettiest, contribute so much to aerodynamics that if you choose to go for an aftermarket set, the largest consequence to pay is fuel efficiency.
THE POWERTRAIN
Ah, in case you’re wondering, Hyundai confirms that the rather advanced Kappa 1.6-litre Atkinson GDI can indeed take RON 95 fuel. The four banger makes
104 hp
 and
147 Nm
 of torque on its own. It’s aided by an electric motor capable of belting
43 hp
 and
170 Nm
that’s juiced by a 1.56 kWh lithium-ion polymer (Li-Po, 240V) battery. The upsides to using Li-Po batteries are aplenty: it has a
much higher charge/discharge rate
 and is
denser
 compared to conventional NiMH (nickel metal hydride) batteries. The downside is, well, that it burns far more aggressively when caught on fire. Just Google them for proof!
But worry not, because there’s no way the Ioniq would have gone on sale if there’s even a remote chance of it ending up as a bonfire. The battery pack is protected by what Hyundai calls a four-stage protection system, and its temperature is constantly monitored and regulated through an inlet in the rear-left side of the cabin. For firmer assurance, the entire body is tough enough to earn itself five stars from Euro NCAP.
THE DRIVE
With a combined output of
140 hp
 and
265 Nm
 of torque, the Ioniq feels decidedly urgent off the line and would sprint to 100 km/h in
10.8 seconds
. At full whack, it will top out at
180km/h
. However, the entire 265 Nm is only available in first gear, because the continuous charge and discharge cycles would cause the battery to generate too much heat. You don’t want your Li-Po to catch fire now, do you?

There’s still adequate thrust in second to fourth gear for most overtaking scenarios, but it gradually wanes in fifth and sixth gear for all the fuel saving causes. It’s a purebred eco car, so don’t expect the same kind of thrill you’d get from the equivalent
Honda Civic 1.5 turbo
 or
Ford Focus EcoBoost
. A glance through the trip counter read 5.5 litres per 100km on mixed roads, including the many mischievous first-gear thrills upon exiting a toll booth. Its on-paper figure is 4.0L/100km which I think is reasonably achievable when driven under the right conditions.
Mounted just behind the front grille is a speaker unit which synthesises engine noise. It acts as a safety feature to warn pedestrians of an oncoming car – especially when creeping from behind – and even enhances engine noise as the revs go up! The
six-speed twin-clutch transmission
 (dry clutch), though not free of flaws, is
jerk-free and smooth
. The flip side is the palpable delay in gear engagement, like a turbo lag of sorts.
The delay, as explained by Hyundai, is an intended function which protects the transmission from any premature wear and tear. It also creates enough time for the flywheel to properly latch onto the transmission. An all-new gearbox housing also helps prevent mechatronic failures that was once a commonality among DSG-equipped Volkswagens.

COMFORT, ERGONOMICS & CONVENIENCES
Despite all its sporty attributes, the Ioniq also proved to be decently comfortable for driver and passengers alike. So plush and supportive are the leather seats (accented with blue stitching) that few will find uncomfortable, even for extended city or highway drives. More importantly, there’s adequate headroom and legroom for rear passengers, while width is good for three average sized adults.
In place of the driver’s seat are the leather wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel and high-res LCD instrument cluster. The seat itself is powered 8-way, which includes a 2-way lumbar support as well. The steering wheel is especially impressive in the manner it’s contoured – not too meaty nor too thin. What’s equally nifty is that all on-wheel controls can be easily accessed by your two thumbs with minimal distraction. You can also change the graphics of your instrument cluster from Eco to Sport mode from the steering wheel controls.
The centre tunnel features a dedicated cutout to stow away mobile phones or even tablets!
THE BEST THING ABOUT THE IONIQ IS…
Its safety features. It is beyond any doubt the most celebrated achievement by Hyundai Malaysia when it comes to the Ioniq. No one else have managed to cram in Smart (Adaptive) Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Detection and seven airbags into a C-Segment car and slap on a RM114k sticker price (inclusive of insurance!).
And they’re not just there for show either. Our test drive route gave ample opportunities to sample all the car’s safety features and they each worked flawlessly. Typically, any application of adaptive cruise control (SCC) would accelerate and brake the car abruptly, and they are mostly intrusive and unnatural. But the Ioniq’s execution was incredibly graceful and natural, almost as though I was doing it myself. When SCC is engaged, all the on-board radars and computers will constantly monitor the distance between you and the vehicle ahead, making necessary accelerations or decelerations with laudable accuracy. It’s almost, if not as refined as those in the
Ford Everest
 and
Volvo XC90 T8
.
JUST WHAT ARE ITS FLAWS?
There’s not a whole lot to dislike about this car, but the two things I can’t get past are its exterior design and the lack of paddle shifters. The fact that I raised the latter perfectly illustrates how impeccably well equipped this car is. Oh, before you ask, HSDM is offering an 8-Year unlimited mileage warranty for the battery. If in any case it gives way after the warranty period, it will cost you less than RM10,000 for a brand new pack.
Many industry colleagues agreed with surety that the Ioniq was possibly – and still is – the best deal ever to be presented in the Malaysian car-buying scene within the last decade. Perhaps, it may even be the closest thing to being the perfect, affordable city car.
IMAGE GALLERY

Hyundai Ioniq 1.6L Hybrid Launch


These two Dutch brothers built a Proton Wira “taxi” and drove it on the Nurburgring!

When we speak about the Nurburgring Nordschleife – which we do,
a lot
 – it’s usually about the wildest supercars setting the shortest time around the “green hell”; the
Proton Wira
 would have never crossed our minds. But that’s exactly what the Gravemade brothers of the
Dutch DIY Mechanics YouTube channel
 did – taking a Proton Wira onto the Nurburgring Nordschleife for what might well possibly be the first-ever lap by the Malaysian-made car.

But why a Proton Wira in particular? In the first instalment of the
Project Proton
 series, the brothers said that they wanted a track car made specifically for the Nurburgring Nordschleife that was cheap and wouldn’t cause too much heartaches if they crash it – which seemed pretty logical, seeing that they now live about 90 minutes away from the famed race track.
Image:
Dutch DIY Mechanics
/Instagram
Behind that logical surface explanation though, there was actually a much more personal reason behind the purchase. In a
post on Instagram
 speaking about their purchase, the Gravemade brothers revealed that they actually spent their childhood growing up in Malaysia, thus buying the Wira was “just a matter of time”.
Unfortunately, the faulty engine in their first 1.3L Proton Wira Aeroback (sold as the 413GLSi in Germany) proved too much work to solve, and they had to then source for a second 4G13 engine from a Mitsubishi – which, due to problematic electrical wirings, also failed to get the car running properly.
Screen Capture:
Dutch DIY Mechanics
/YouTube
In a last ditch effort, the Gravemade brothers decided to purchase a second Proton Wira – this time a 1.5-litre model with a working 4G15 engine, which just needed a quick tune-up to get it in great running condition ready for the Nurburgring Nordschleife.
Image:
Dutch DIY Mechanics
/Instagram
Several modifications were made to the Proton Wira to get it ready for the Nurburgring, which includes a stripped-out interior with Sparco racing seats for the front passengers, high-performance brake pads and shoes, 15-inch OZ Wheels with semi-slick tyres, as well as a sportier APEX suspension springs.
Screen Capture:
Dutch DIY Mechanics
/YouTube
To give it a true Malaysian vibe (and a play on ‘ring-taxi’), the dutch brothers even wrapped the Proton Wira in a red and white colour scheme in reference to the taxis in KL, finished with a yellow and white “
Teksi
 Ampang” badge reading “DDM Dutch Mechanics Sdn Bhd”, along with actual Malaysian taxi paraphernalia and the iconic McDonald’s drive-through VIP Sticker sent to them by a Malaysian fan.

Almost exactly one year after getting their hands on their
first Proton Wira
, the Gravemade brothers finally took their purpose-made track car for an emotional lap on the Nurburgring. You can watch the full lap (and a second lap done in August), as well as the entire build log over at the
Dutch DIY Mechanics YouTube channel
.


Geely goes contact-free by using drones to deliver new car keys

Last month,
Geely Auto rolled out its own online sales system
 that offered customers a one-stop solution for all things car-buying. Services included alteration of vehicle specifications, financing and insurance.
But there is one option that surpasses the imagination and couldn’t have been a more ideal solution for a time when human contact is best kept to a minimum.
And it’s drones. Geely is
using drones to deliver new car keys to their owners by flying directly to their doorstep or even balcony
. This not only eliminates the need for customers to drop by the dealership but also creates a truly contactless car-buying experience.

Since the platform was launched in February, just over 10,000 consumers have ordered and paid for vehicles on Geely’s online mall with a further 110,000 users registering their interest to buy a Geely vehicle in the short term.
All Geely Auto vehicles are thoroughly disinfected by the dealership including through ionization prior to delivery in order to ensure customers enjoy a safe and healthy purchase experience.
As part of Geely’s commitment to developing healthy cars, Geely Auto has set aside a RMB370 million fund that will focus on the development of cleaner, healthier vehicles providing clean cabin air and using materials that are antimicrobial in nature. The
 first mass produced vehicle equipped with anti-bacterial filters, the Geely ICON
, was launched in late February 2020.


2015 Honda Civic Type R unveiled: 2.0L VTEC turbo, 306 hp & 400 Nm! [+Video]

Last year today, at the very same venue, Honda wowed the crowd with a controversial take on the all-new
Civic Type R Concept
. Say what you want, because the teams at Honda have certainly outdone themselves, going from concept to ‘road going race car’ in just a year’s time.
Seen here in pictures is the production version of the most feral
Civic Type R
 to date, following many
teasers
 including a very clever
video advertisement
. The numbers we were
previously informed
 – all 280 horsepower of it – proved to be far from the 2.0-litre VTEC’s limit. There’s an old adage saying that we should save the juicy bits for last, so we’ll get to that in a bit
As per our
previous report
, the red-badged Civic has looks with function, and all of its exterior design elements have been put through extensive aerodynamic optimisation. This includes numerous wind tunnel testing and computer-based modelling in Sakura, Japan, which also happens to be Honda’s Formula One engine development hub.
No Civic Type R is complete without its rear wing. Forgive me for this cliché, but the downforce is strong in this one. Parts that work in tandem to keep the car sucked to the ground includes the wide front bumper and splitter, deeply cut side skirts, almost full-flat underbody, rear spoiler and rear diffuser. These parts have been carefully engineered to optimise downforce without causing drag buildup at higher speeds.
With its turbocharged engine comes great speed and heat – lots of it. To counter this, Honda made the upper and lower front grilles larger to allow greater volume of cooling air into the engine bay.
The latest Type R moniker sits on
19-inch
 highly rigid alloy wheels, wrapped in a set of slim
235/35 R19 profile tyres
 that were specifically designed for it. Stopping this hasty front-wheel drive are a pair of Brembo high performance brakes, with the front fitted with
four-piston calipers
 clamping the
350 mm ventilated discs
.
New to the Type R is its suspension setup, as it benefits from the brand’s four-point
Adaptive Damper System
. It enables continuous independent control of each wheel whilst limiting wheel-load transfer during acceleration and deceleration, making your daily drive more comfortable. So they say.
The front axle is suspended by an advanced
dual axis strut suspension
 that helps to
reduce torque steer
 by as much as 50 percent, while the rear gets an H-shaped torsion beam setup, capable of improving rear roll rigidity by 180 percent. That directly translates to better overall handling, if we are to put it simply. Oh, also expect the road feel to increase by a considerable margin too, judging from how it’s sprung.
Inside, the Civic Type R gets a raft of aesthetic and functional upgrades. The gear lever knob, like its predecessor, is entirely machined from aluminium. The sports bucket seats here are trimmed in a combination of black and red suede-like fabric, finished in double red stitching. They really do look comfy as far as pictures can tell. More red can be found on the gear knob and steering wheel, which is home to some of your dedicated function buttons.
Now for the exciting bit. Under the hood rests the newly developed
2.0-litre direct injected turbocharged

VTEC
 engine. The engine is also part of Honda’s next-gen Earth Dreams Technology series, though it’s most unlikely to debut in voluminous cars like the
CR-V
 or Accord. The numbers it makes –
306 hp
 at 6,500 rpm and
400 Nm
 of torque from 2,500 rpm; all-time high figures as far as Type Rs are concerned.
This front-wheel drive Civic
redlines at 7,000 rpm
, and through its
six-speed manual gearbox
, the car will sprint from standstill to 100 km/h in
5.7 seconds
 and onto a top speed of
270 km/h
. Honda claims that the sprint time is the fastest of any FWD hatchbacks, trumping Renault’s Megane R.S 275 Trophy-R’s 5.8-second century sprint time. If this gives you any indication, the Civic Type R lapped the Nürburgring in
7:50.63 seconds
 (video below), a good 4 seconds faster than the comparable Megane R.S 275 and 8 seconds quicker than the Seat Leon Cupra 280.
That laptime should rightfully earn the Civic Type R the ‘King of the Ring’ title, but looking at the growth rate of super fast hot hatches, it could be anyone’s game now. Having said that, what are your thoughts on the new Civic Type R? Did Honda get it right by going down the turbocharging route, and the all-important question is, will it ever find its way to Malaysian ground?
IMAGE GALLERY


Body kit of Myvi S-Edition in Brunei not by Perodua

Last weekend, the local auto news scene was set alight by the launch of the
Perodua Myvi
 in Brunei. Aside from the Standard 1.3 variant, the Myvi was also sold as the
S-Edition
; with a body kit resembling the
Myvi GT Concept
previewed at the
 2018 Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show
.
The launched caused quite a buzz, to a point that netizens were questioning if Perodua would launch the same, following speculation by the local automotive media. Well,
Perodua
 has spoken.
The Myvi GT at KLIMS 2018.
According to the company, the sporty body kit was
sourced independently by GHK Motors
, distributors of Perodua vehicles in Brunei. Perodua also added that they’re in talks with the distributor to ensure that the body kit complies with the company’s standards.
As for GHK Motors, the company said the introduction of the Myvi S-Edition was
an attempt to introduce a variant that is better suited for their market
. So I guess we have the answer guys – a Myvi with a sporty body kit may be some time away, if ever.
GALLERY


Gallery: MINI Cooper S 3 Door Challenge Inspired, 1 of 1 in Malaysia, RM295,377

The appetite for MINI vehicles in Malaysia has certainly grown after
MINI Malaysia charted a 12 percent increase in sales for 2017
 with 1,010 vehicles delivered. Having said that, MINI Malaysia understands that their cars are quirky lifestyle choices hence if you log on to their
official website
, you can find a plethora of options to customise your prized ride.
We recently got our hands on a heavily kitted out
Cooper S 3 Door
 – actually heavily kitted is an understatement. Introducing the MINI Cooper S 3 Door Challenge Inspired Edition, the only one of its kind in Malaysia, packed with uprated performance and cosmetic enhancements worth over
RM65,000
 (yikes!).
QUICK FACTS
Name
MINI Cooper S 3 Door Challenge Inspired
Engine
1,998cc; inline-4 TwinPower Turbo
Transmission
6-speed automatic
Max Power
207 hp @ 4,700 rpm
Max Torque
300 Nm @ 1,250 rpm
0 – 100 km/h; Top Speed
6.8 seconds; 230 km/h
Price (OTR without insurance)
RM295,377
So, what exactly is the Challenge Inspired Edition and how is it possible that a Cooper S is more expensive than the full-fledge JCW 3 Door? The Challenge Inspired is essentially the 3 Door version of the JCW Pro Edition that only comes in the 5 Door body style, this car also shows how crazy you can go with the official accessories on offer.
For starters, this panda-themed MINI gets the full range of
exterior upgrades
 including the JCW Aero Kit, Carbon Air Intake, Carbon Wing Mirror Caps, Black Decals, MINI LED Door Projector and 18-inch JCW Cross Spoke (506) lightweight alloy wheels.

Additionally, you can pick and choose your desired design for each individual component to suit your taste such as Union Jack roof, Chequered Flag decals, illuminated door sills and many more. You can even get the Key Fob in a different design if you so wish.
Of course, there are also performance enhancing options to go with the go faster exterior. Under the hood, the 2.0-litre TwinPower Turbo in-line four gets the JCW Tuning Kit that bumps output to
207 hp
 and
 300 Nm
 (+15 hp & 20 Nm). The uprated engine is paired with the JCW Valve Silencer System with carbon tailpipe trim that adds a dedicated
Track Mode
 for ferocious pops and bangs – no I am not exaggerating it one bit. How much for that shouty exhaust?
RM12,999
.

With great power comes great stopping power, the Challenge Inspired Edition also comes with 17-inch JCW Sport Brakes, ventilated and cross-drilled, more effective than what the full-fledged JCW has. The last item on the list is the JCW Pro Suspension that lowers the ride height by 10 mm, giving it the perfect stance on the road.
The only option you can find in the cabin is the retrofitted Head-Up Display that displays the speed and Sports Display – instantaneous power (in kW) and torque (in Nm).
Here is the breakdown of parts of this one-of-one Cooper S in the country:
Description
Retail Price (inclusive of GST)
18″ JCW Cross Spoke 506
RM13,388
17″ JCW Sport Brakes
RM9,288
JCW Aero Kit
RM13,353
JCW Pro Tuning Kit with Carbon Tailpipe
RM12,999
MINI LED Door Projector
RM355
Black Trim, Front and Rear
RM1,099
JCW Pro Suspension
RM7,800
Carbon Mirror
RM2,700
Carbon Air Intake
RM1,399
Head-Up Display
RM3,108
Total
RM65,489
Total cost for dressing a standard Cooper S to the Challenge Inspired costs a staggering RM65,489. Considering that a standard Cooper S 3 Door retails for RM229,888, with the kit added you are looking at a total cost of RM295,377. Just a reminder, one of
AutoBuzz.my
 Bests Cars of 2017, the full-fledged MINI John Cooper Works Hatch
 will only set you back at RM293,888. Is it worth it? Stay tuned for the full review coming soon.
IMAGE GALLERY


Volkswagen says “Goodbye” to the Beetle with a touching video

Bring those tissues out, this one’s going to give you all sorts of warm, fuzzy feelings.
After
announcing the end of its production
, Volkswagen has produced a final tribute video for the iconic Beetle and it’s more touching than you’d expect.
The animated film follows the story of a boy whose major life events – from childhood, all the way to a senior age – were accompanied by the Volkswagen Beetle.

Adding more sentimental value to the video was the rendition of “Let it Be” – perhaps Volkswagen’s way of saying “let the past, be the past” as Volkswagen charges into a new decade (and era) of electrification.
At the end of the video, there was even a cameo appearance by what seems like the front end of the
new all-electric ID.3 with 550km of pure electric driving range
. It was also reported that Volkswagen’s new generation of the “people’s car” will also
feature a hotter “R version”
.
IMAGE GALLERY


2021 BMW M4 Competition Convertible gets a soft top, but its performance is anything but

BMW has just unveiled the convertible version of the M4 that was
launched late last year
. While the outgoing M4 Convertible had a folding metal roof, BMW has given the all-new model a soft cloth top to save weight. Yet, it still weighs a massive
1,995 kg
– just five kilograms off two tonnes, and nearly 150 kg heavier than its predecessor.
The extra weight boils down to two key points. One, the G82 BMW M4 Competition that this new convertible is based on has already put on quite a fair bit of weight compared to its previous generation, and two: It’s only available with all-wheel drive.
But despite the weight, the M4 Convertible is still seriously quick. With a
510 hp
 and
650 Nm
 Competition-spec S58 3.0 litre twin-turbo straight-six engine underneath the hood, which is the only tune the M4 Convertible comes in, the AWD model propels itself to 100 km/h in just
3.7 seconds
.
For context, that’s 0.2 seconds quicker than the RWD-only M4 Competition coupe, and 0.2 seconds slower than the
M4 Competition in xDrive form
. Top speed meanwhile, is electronically limited to
280 km/h
 with the optional M Driver’s Package (250 km/h without).
BMW says the new panel bow fabric roof (the same one found on the all-new
4 Series Convertible
) combines the “practical benefits of a retractable hardtop with the classically elegant aesthetic of a fabric hood”, while being nearly
40% lighter than its predecessor
. It takes around 18 seconds to open and close the roof, and can be done while travelling at speeds of up to 50 km/h.
As expected in a convertible, the boot space has taken a hit thanks to its folding roof mechanism – dropping from the 440 litres offered with the coupe, to 385 litres with the roof up, and 300 litres when stowed. Still, it’s a huge improvement from its predecessor – the latter being 80 litres more than before.
To offset the removal of the roof, which is a key structural part in any car, BMW has added a model-specific torsion strut package at the rear of the all-new M4 Convertible to increase torsional rigidity, in addition to the existing M specific chassis bracing and a aluminium sheer panel for the front subframe from the M4 Coupe.
Still not a fan of the
large kidney grille
?
Aside from the obvious changes on the upper half of the car, the rest of the all-new BMW M4 Competition Convertible – including both the interior and exterior appointments as well as options – are all basically unchanged from the M4 Coupe.
Production of the model is scheduled to begin in July this year at BMW’s Dingolfing assembly plant, with sales set to begin shortly after. Pricing for the convertible model starts at GBP81,915 (~RM480k) in the UK, making it about GBP3,600 (~RM21k) more expensive than the AWD M4 Competition Coupe.
GALLERY


Honda BR-V gets new Ignite Red Metallic, Meteoroid Gray Metallic colours in Malaysia

Honda Malaysia
 has just announced an update to the
BR-V
‘s colour palette, with the introduction of Ignite Red Metallic and Meteoroid Gray Metallic.
The new hues for the Honda BR-V are part of the company’s
recent streak of exterior colour palette updates
, and will replace the existing Passion Red Pearl and Modern Steel Metallic colours respectively. Other colour options for the seven-seater model include Platinum White Pearl (extra-cost option), Marine Purple Pearl, and Lunar Silver Metallic.
The two new colours were first introduced on the all-new Honda City Hatchback, and have since been expanded to the all-new Civic and City sedan. The Honda Accord meanwhile is offered with the Meteoroid Gray Metallic colour.
“These colours have been receiving good response from the market. In view of the good acceptance, we now continue to expand the new colours to the BR-V,” said Honda Malaysia Managing Director and CEO, Hironobu Yoshimura. “The Ignite Red Metallic further elevates the attractiveness and bold appearance of the BR-V, while the Meteoroid Gray Metallic enhances its rugged look.”
Since its launch back in June 2020, the
facelifted seven-seater crossover
 has already sold more than 5,700 units as of last month. Honda Malaysia attributes the positive demand to the BR-V’s overall design that “meets customers’ needs for a 7-seater with stylish SUV design, exciting driving performance and incredible versatility”.
As a quick recap, the Honda BR-V is powered by a 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated i-VTEC inline-four engine that sends
120 hp
 and
145 Nm
 of torque to the front wheels via a CVT gearbox.
However, it’s the BR-V’s unique features that make it a versatile family vehicle, including the 60:40 one-touch tilt and tumble seats in the second row, and 50:50 tilt and full tumble seats in the third row. The boot space expands from 223 to 539 litres with the third-row seats folded down.
Other creature comforts include tweeter speakers, cabin air filter, automatic air conditioning, Smart Entry, as well as a seven-inch Display Audio infotainment system on the range-topping V variant.
The 2020 Honda BR-V is priced from
RM86,726
 for the base E variant, and
RM93,420
 for the range-topping V variant. The pricing is inclusive of the ongoing SST exemptions, although if you’re not looking for one immediately, you might want to hold off for the
next-generation model
that’s due to be
launched here in Malaysia very soon
.


It’s not “just tuning”, here’s how the all-new Honda Civic Turbo became more powerful

We’re pretty sure you’re aware by now that Honda Malaysia has introduced the all-new 11th generation Honda Civic with
 three

variants available
.
You get the base model 1.5 E from
RM125,634
, 1.5V from
 RM138,043,
 and the range-topping RS from RM144,350. Their features may differ from the three variants but they have something in common.
RELATED: Honda Civic beats VW Golf GTI to be crowned Car of the Year in North America
As Honda Malaysia has stopped offering the 1.8-litre naturally aspirated engine previously available for the lower variants of the previous generation Civic FC, all three variants of the newly launched Civic will be powered by the same 1.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine.
REALTED: Brief review of the all-new 11th-gen Honda Civic – Grown up in more ways than one
In case you’re wondering, it’s not a new shoe with the same sole design. For Malaysia at least, they’ve squeezed out
182 hp
 and 24
0 Nm
 from the same engine in the previous generation; that’s a
9 hp and 20 Nm increase
 from

before but how did they get that extra power?

In case you’re wondering, it’s not just a matter of tuning or re-mapping the engine but there’s actually some new hardware involved.
During our recent session with the Civic’s Lead Project Leader from Japan, Mr. Tomoyuki Yamagami, we asked how and where the extra power came from and was told that the turbocharger’s components in the new Civic have also been upgraded. No specific details were shared on what these components were; we will update this section as soon as we get further confirmation from Honda Malaysia.
According to Mr. Tomoyuki, the new components not only contribute to additional horsepower but allow the turbocharger to be more responsive. This allows acceleration to not just be quicker but more responsive and instant with reduced lag.
That’s not all. Honda has also made the oil pan more rigid and the engine’s crankshaft thicker to reduce noise, vibration, and harshness while the engine is running.
As to why the 1.8-litre engine was discontinued, we were told that it was due to emission restrictions and that the engine is considered old now. The focus now is to further develop the 1.5-litre turbocharged engine.
Lastly, if you’re unaware, the
all-new Civic in Thailand
 produces a few horsepower less and when asked why by other media representatives, Honda said it was due to the E85 fuel used in Thailand.
Stay tuned for more info on how the all-new Honda Civic has been improved!
RELATED: All-new Honda Civic awarded with full 5-Star ASEAN NCAP rating
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Stop “copping” parking spaces or face a RM2,000 fine says PDRM

Thanks to dash cams and mobile recordings, we were able to see some of the crazy and peculiar habits of users on the road. But one particular (and most of the times questionable) action that irks us motorist is turning up to an unoccupied parking space only to find someone standing there to “cop” (reserve) the empty spot, waiting for their friend, father, mother, grandmother to turn up from Narnia.
You may think “how can he/she do that, the car is not even here!” but more often than not we move away to avoid causing a scene (read: running them over). What can we, as fellow road users do when facing these kinds of bullies? Well, Polis Diraja Malaysia (PDRM) has come out to clarify that it is illegal for unauthorised personnel (that means you, auntie), to “cop” a parking spot and divert traffic away from the empty space:

Under Section 50(3) of the Road Transport Act 1987, “Unlawful interference and importuning”: “If any person, otherwise than with lawful authority, remains on any road or at any parking place for the purpose of importuning any other person in respect of the watching or cleaning of a motor vehicle, or for the purpose of directing any driver of a motor vehicle in respect of parking on such road or at such place, he shall be guilty of an offence.”
If found guilty, the offender can be fined up to RM2,000 or face a maximum six months jail term. So the next time you’re making rounds for a parking spot, be sure to have your car ready with you.


Review: Things I discovered about the Toyota C-HR after 10 days with it

But of course, there are things about it that I didn’t like, left me bemused and even dumbfounded. Three full tanks of fuel (at 400 km each), hundreds of kilometres and 10 days later though, I must say, my perception of the Toyota C-HR has changed.
I still lament its existence, but now I see why Toyota, a brand so well-known for making the most practical, user-friendly and sensible cars, would bother creating such a thing.
On that note, they’ve got it spot on. Everything about the C-HR is, nearly perfect, ESPECIALLY for the demographic it caters to.
The C-HR is not for sensible people like you and I; it’s not for those who spend hours going through multiple money changers for the best possible exchange rate just so they can save RM 10.

Instead, it’ll likely attract those who’d queue outside an Adidas store for hours just so they could get their hands on an ugly pair of Yeezys, for thousands of ringgit, so they can be seen as “current and trendy” people.
As a car though, on what it’s like to drive and be driven in, the C-HR is right up there with its rivals. Some might even think that it’s the best, and I wouldn’t necessarily argue with them because of there are more reasons than one to like the car, despite its shortcomings, and here’s mine:
It’s as welcoming and comfortable as a lazy chair, one you “can’t see out of”
You all know that feeling; kicking back on your couch or a lazy chair, mindlessly flipping through the channels on your hopeless and repetitive cable TV, it’s nice isn’t it? It’s an effortless way to go about life.

Well that’s exactly how I felt from behind the wheel, on that comfortable seat. To an extent those seats even reminded me of those in the
Harrier I reviewed earlier this year
, only that it wasn’t wrapped in Nappa leather. You don’t sink in it, like you would into a bean bag, it’s just supports you with the right amount of padding and contour.
Just like being on your lazy chair that’s positioned strategically in front of the TV, visibility ahead is great as well but what’s more profound is how well it rides, and how well insulated the cabin is from the elements outside – it’s not something you’d overlook.
Wish I could say the same about its rear visibility though. There’s not much to complain about through the rear view mirrors but the rear quarters make you feel as if you’re badly blindfolded – with very partial visibility – no thanks to those huge “C-pillars”. Not very convenient when you’re trying to parallel park or change lanes; good thing it comes with a Blind Spot Detector.
A smooth operated held back by minor incompetencies
Once you start driving the C-HR, that’s when you’d be impressed because this thing is smoother than Michael Jackson doing the Moonwalk, in the way it drives. You just get the sense that everything is working together in synchronous harmony, like a well-oiled machine.

Even better, when the roads start to curve, that’s when the C-HR really shows off its party piece – its road holding capabilities. The only thing holding it back from actually being “an exciting prospect” is another 20 or so horsepower and a good set of tyres because there’s only so much a 1.8-litre engine with 138 hp can offer and those Dunlop Eco-whatever-it’s-called is just garbage.
Not only is it noisy on the move, it just can’t cope with how well the C-HR goes through the bends. I usually call bullshit every chance I get, but it does somewhat drive like a “Coupe”, despite being a “High-Rider”; it’s actually true to the name it was given!
Attention-seeking exterior design that isn’t without drawbacks
In the 10 days I spent with the car, ferrying everyone from friends, colleagues and family members, not one had anything bad to say about how the C-HR looks. Overtime, I saw the appeal too. I’m still not a fan of how it looks, but I get why people are appealed to it.
Just look at that rear end and tell me I’m wrong.
Compare it with your HR-Vs and CX-3s, this thing sticks out like a beautifully-sore thumb with bulging character lines, swoops and curves molded all over its body. It’s not exactly a stunning piece, but it sure is striking.
But there are, however, a list of let downs. Considering how radical the car looks, those rims looked like a pussy cat next to a ferocious tiger. And what’s up with the position of those door handles? I can understand how a conventional one would ruin the flow and design of the car but how would a tiny 5-year old in a young family be able to reach it?

Also victim to the C-HR’s dynamic design is rear headroom and visibility out of the rear windows. Sure, your kids wouldn’t have trouble feeling snug back there but try fitting someone my height (180 cm) and he’d beg to be released almost instantly. You could just feel this light, but perpetually pat on your head, from the sloping roof line.
Not that anyone can see you suffer cause at full recline, your face would be completely swallowed by those thick C-pillars. Some would call it privacy, I’d call it a nuisance. Having to lean forward just to catch a glimpse of what’s outside, is no fun.
A youthful interior that lacks a hint of maturity
Youthful and futuristic as it may be on the inside, it does have a few quirks which aren’t negligible. It’s all very plush and pleasant at first but when you start spending more time in it, a few inconveniences come to light.
Take the dashboard for example, I love the tri-coloured, multi-layered, soft touch dashboard where everything seems to be angled towards the driver but my front passenger wouldn’t share the same enthusiasm. That’s cause right in front of her (or him), where the glove box is tucked away, is an unnecessarily massive bulge.
Not that it would matter most times, but if you need to make room for the passenger behind, bid au revoir to your knee caps. What the Yeezy-wearing C-HR owner would appreciate are the details on the headliner and the door panels, I’ve never seen anything that “outstanding” in car with a RM 150k price tag.
This brings me back to my initial point about the C-HR catering to a very specific group of people. I don’t think it’s a car for the masses, it’s for the urban-trotting, latte-drinking, yoga-going demographic that pays more attention to style than the underlying substance.
And certain parts of the cabin just don’t gel with the rest. It makes you wonder if Toyota, being the sensible car maker that they are, is trying just a little too hard to be hip and is out of its comfort zone.
While it may have a decent sound system, a necessary feature for the under 35s, what bothers me is the glossy panels. Not only are they glossy but they have this “gold dust effect” throughout the surface.
How did Toyota think that it would gel with the classy and sophisticated, tri-coloured, multi-layered, soft touch dashboard? It doesn’t make sense. Looking at the centre console, I can’t help but think if there was a better way of designing it as there was no where to place my coins but in the cupholder – good thing it was deep enough. #twss
I might have sounded like I absolutely hated the C-HR but truth be told, I’ve been missing it. Is it a car I would buy? No. Would I recommend it to my friends? Depends who’s asking. Is it a practical all-rounder? Not entirely.
But would I bet on it to get me from A to B effortlessly, in style and in comfort, with a hint of excitement most Toyotas in this price bracket seem to lack? Sure, with the RM 150k I don’t have.
IMAGE GALLERY


Lexus LBX teased – shares TNGA platform with Yaris Cross

Lexus
 has just teased its new entry-level SUV that will be added to its European model lineup. Known as the Lexus LBX, the upcoming small luxury SUV will be positioned under the
UX
 compact SUV and is said to become the Japanese luxury carmaker’s top seller.
Planned to be unveiled on
June 5
,
2023
, in Milan Italy, the Lexus LBX will be the first Lexus model with a three-letter naming structure. All Lexus models thus far have been named after a two-letter naming structure, such as the
RX
,
NX
,
ES
 and CT.
Looking at teaser pictures of the Lexus LBX, its front end features Lexus’ new grille style, as well as a newly designed daytime running light (DRL). This is different from Lexus’ usual Nike-esque DRL design. The second picture of the LBX teaser shows the car’s rear lights that run across the rear of the car.
Lexus mentioned that the LBX is expected to be its best-selling model in Europe, which is a title currently held by the UX compact SUV. Since rolling out the UX, Lexus’ sales have seen an 80% boost, and the company hopes the LBX will help boost its sales even further.
RELATED:
Here’s what the letters in each Lexus model mean
The upcoming small Lexus SUV will sit beneath the Lexus UX in the brand’s model lineup and will be sharing the same TNGA platform as the Europe and Japanese market
Toyota Yaris Cross
 platform. However, this platform is totally different from the one underpinning the Yaris Cross
recently launched in Indonesia
, as that utilises the DNGA platform. Despite carrying the same Yaris Cross name, the two models are totally different inside and out as well.
RELATED:
Gallery: 2023 Lexus RX 350 Luxury now open for booking in Malaysia – RM469k


Geely Preface’s new advertisement sends three German powerhouses packing!

We’re not sure where it all started, but car brands are seemingly much more daring these days (in our side of the world, at least), directly calling out competitors in their own commercials. Last week, Honda Malaysia
released a video
 for its upcoming City throwing shade at the Toyota Camry, and now Geely is comparing its upcoming Preface flagship sedan against the likes of the
BMW M4
,

Mercedes-AMG C 63 S
, and the
Porsche Panamera
 in its new advertisement. No pressure, then…
 https://twitter.com/GeelyGlobal/status/1296267766014468099
In a video released yesterday on Geely’s social media channels, the new commercial depicts the three German sportscars driving up a mountainous route – which looks fabulous, by the way – while passing a man dressed in a swanky three-piece suit.
The sharply-dressed man is then seen entering the conveniently-parked
Geely Preface
, wrapped in camouflage with “CMA” plastered across the side, and perhaps unexpectedly to the three competitors passing by previously, gives chase to the German convoy – with driving gloves and a helmet even, perhaps showing that he’s not taking it lightly.
What follows in the advertisement is a series of clips showing off the Geely Preface in spirited driving conditions, overtaking the aforementioned German stallions, perhaps just a little too easily to be believable. The four cars then gather at a scenic spot overlooking the valley below, with the Preface arriving last for some reason.
The video is undoubtedly designed to highlight the agility of the Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) platform, which also underlines the likes of the
Volvo XC40
,

Polestar 2
,

Geely Xing Yue
, as well as the
Lynk & Co 03
 and the 2019 WTCR Championship-winning
03 TCR race car
.
Having
driven the Volvo XC40
, we certainly have no doubts about the CMA’s handling chops. Now all that’s left to know is if the powertrain options can send its German rivals packing as suggested from the video above, which we’ll find out at the launch of the new luxury sedan nearer to the end of the year.
With rumours floating about suggesting that the next-generation
Proton Perdana
 might be based on the Geely Preface, there’s certainly a lot for us to to look forward to!


All-new Mercedes-Benz CLE unveiled with B-Pillar, PHEV in the works

An all-new model series has been unveiled by Mercedes-Benz and it is the Mercedes-Benz CLE (C236). Like the
CLA
 and
CLS
, this is a coupe model. More interestingly though, this new series replaces the C-Class Coupe, E-Class Coupe, and their cabriolet counterparts. The market launch of the CLE will begin in Europe this November.
Replacing the C-Class and E-Class Coupe, the Mercedes-Benz CLE measures 4,850 mm long, 1,860 mm wide, and 1,428 mm tall. Its wheelbase measures 2,865 mm long. It is longer and lower than both the C-Class and E-Class coupe, so the CLE name is rather appropriate since it leans towards being an E-Class.
The front end draws an uncanny resemblance to the CLA, especially with the shape of the headlights (the cluster does defer though and the CLE utilizes the brand’s Digital Light technology). CLA similarities aside, the CLE does have decent proportions and a domineering appearance.
One thing that may bother fans of Mercedes-Benz’s midsize coupe is the introduction of the B-Pillar. The E-Class Coupe made do without this, but the C-Class Coupe had it. The lack of the B-Pillar in the E-Class coupe and many older Mercedes-Benz mid-size coupes gave the car a signature look. With the windows down, you had a clean opening which was quite the head-turner. That aside, the CLE is still a decent-looking car.
RELATED:
Not only taking our jobs, ChatGPT is now in Mercedes-Benz’s voice control system
Wheel sizes for the CLE range from 18 to 20 inches with varying designs and the AMG-Line CLE comes with 19-inch wheels as standard. At the back, the Mercedes-Benz CLE comes with a new set of taillights which is a two-part LED light with new contours and three-dimensional bodies.
Upon its market launch in Europe set to happen in November this year, there will be 5 powertrain options for the CLE. Namely the CLE 220 d, CLE 200, CLE 200 4MATIC, CLE 300 4MATIC, and CLE 450 4MATIC. All powertrain options are 48V mild hybrid systems with an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG). There are no plug-in hybrid (PHEV) options yet, but Mercedes-Benz says it is a work in progress.
RELATED:
Mercedes-AMG SL 43 previewed in Malaysia – Estimated RM1 million, 2.0-litre turbo, 381hp, 275km/h top speed
In its most powerful version, the CLE 450 4MATIC sources power from a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-6 engine (M 256 M) that outputs
381 hp
 and
500 Nm
. The ISG provides an additional boost of
23 hp
 and
200 Nm
. Paired with the engine is the brand’s 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission.
Other versions of the CLE are powered by either a 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder gasoline engine (with varying outputs with respect to variant) or a 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine. Both fuel options get assistance from the 48V mild hybrid system.
Inside, the cabin design is already quite expected. Naturally, it is in sync with the cabin of the newly introduced W214 and the W206 with its large portrait head unit and prominent centre console. Of course, the head unit features the latest version of MBUX which has become quite popular among customers.
Like the W214 E-Class, the Mercedes-Benz CLE’s head unit can be installed the entertainment platform “TikTok”, the podcast platform “Pocket Casts”, the audio and video streaming platform “Audials”, the game “Angry Birds”, the cloud-based collaboration application ” Webex”, the video conferencing system “Zoom” and the internet browser “Vivaldi”.
In Malaysia, the E-Class Coupe is still available for purchase, selling at RM520,888. The sedan E-Class for Malaysia is also currently in the W213 generation.
GALLERY


Facts & Figures: Aston Martin DBX launched in Malaysia – 550 hp ultra-luxury SUV

First

previewed in the country
 nearly a year ago now in conjunction with the global debut, Aston Martin Kuala Lumpur (AMKL) today officially launched the Aston Martin DBX here in Malaysia. The Aston Martin DBX will join a pretty crowded bunch of ultra-luxury SUVs in the market including the
Lamborghini Urus
 and the
Bentley Bentayga
, the latter launched in Malaysia just yesterday.
The Aston Martin DBX will go on sale in Malaysia starting at
 RM818,000
 without insurance, taxes, and associated costs, which is quite a bit higher than previously anticipated. The company explains that the increase in cost was due to the several quality enhancements made to the final production model.

PERFORMANCE
Underneath the hood of the DBX is a Mercedes-AMG sourced 4.0 litre twin-turbocharged V8, tuned in this iteration to make
550 hp
 and
700 Nm
 of torque – higher than the Vantage and DB11.
Power is transferred to the ground via a nine-speed automatic transmission (also sourced from Mercedes) and an all-wheel drive system featuring an active central differential and an electronic rear limited-slip differential (eDiff). The AWD system allows for torque to not only be controlled between the axles, but across the rear axles as well.
With that much traction, the Aston Martin DBX completes the century sprint in just
 4.5 seconds
, onward to a top speed of
291 km/h
. Aston Martin says that its not only quick on a straight line, but around bends as well, thanks to the triple-chamber air springs at all corners as standard, along with a 48-volt electric anti-roll control system.
Collectively, the suspension system is able to raise or lower the car by 45 mm and 50 mm respectively, and exert up to 1,400 Nm of force on each axle to mitigate the rolling effects from the higher centre of gravity of an SUV. Aston Martin said that the DBX is a sports car first, SUV second, and we certainly have no doubts about that ambitious claim.
EXTERIOR
The Aston Martin DBX features some of the company’s most iconic design elements, including the signature grille design (the largest that’s ever been fitted on any AM model, by the way), and a full-width taillight with integrated ducktail spoiler inspired by the new Vantage.
The Gaydon-based company not only paid extra-close attention to small visual details such as the glass cover on the B-pillars and flush window sills for a more coherent and elegant look, but also to the SUV’s overall aerodynamic performance.
These include a vent on the daytime-running light up front that channels air through the front wheel arches and along the sides, as well as a slotted rear roof spoiler which not only helps clean up air flow over the roof, but also helps enhance the effectiveness of the ducktail spoiler, and even helps clear the rear windscreen from rainwater – removing the need of an ugly rear wiper.
Another benefit to the aerodynamic performance of the car is the reduction of cabin noise while on the move; Aston Martin says that they are one of the very few companies who are using computational aeroacoustics technology to help improve passenger comfort.
INTERIOR
On the inside, the passengers are pretty much cocooned in acres of full-grain leather covering the entirety of the dashboard, as well as trims on the door panels, and of course the sport seats. The leather is offset by the headlining and electric roof blind which can be optioned in Alcantara suede.
The centre console is constructed as a floating bridge, where you’ll find most of the driving and infotainment system controls, while underneath it is some flexible storage space. Along the sides, the decorative trims can be furnished in a range of different finishes, including solid wood, composite and metal veeners, as well as a new flax composite designed to be an ecologically-friendly alternative to carbon fibre.
Other interior highlights include a 10.25-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay connectivity, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, 64-colour ambient lighting with two control zones, three-zone climate control, a 360-degree camera system, and a 14-speaker, 800-watt sound system.
As for the SUV side of the equation, the Aston Martin DBX boasts a class-leading interior space thanks in part to the slim sport seats for the front passenger, and a reworked panoramic glass roof that reduces the height required for the rolling blinds mechanism. Further at the back, the DBX also features a cargo space of 632 litres, expandable by the 40:20:40 split folding rear seats.
In fact, Aston Martin says that its Female Advisory Board was significantly involved during the design process of the DBX, in addition to dealership feedback and private focus groups to enhance the overall ergonomics of the luxury SUV, including the separate central armrests, glovebox design, and even the positioning of the car’s key control systems.
SAFETY
The family-oriented Aston Martin is well equipped with advanced safety features, including autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning and lane keep assist, rear cross traffic alert, blind spot monitoring, traffic sign recognition, and automatic high beam.
Additionally, the DBX also comes as standard with six airbags (front, side, and curtain), stability control, emergency brake assist, roll-over stability control, hill descent control, and hill start assist.
PRICING
As mentioned above, the Aston Martin DBX retails at RM818,000 before options, taxes, duties, and all other associated costs. On the options, Aston Martin is also offering additional packages such as the Pet package which includes a portable washer for your furry friends after a walk in the mud, in addition to the various wheel options, as well as exterior and interior finishes.
The DBX will be built at the company’s manufacturing plant in St Athan, Wales, and is now available for viewing and booking at the Aston Martin Kuala Lumpur showroom.
GALLERY


New Volvo Car Finance programme launched to offer flexible financing packages

Volvo Car Malaysia has launched the new Volvo Car Finance programme offering low finance rates and more flexible packages to make Volvo ownership more accessible.
The new Volvo XC40 Recharge Pure Electric EV
Key benefits include:
Financing rates as low as 1.88% p.a. (Flat rate equivalent) for all Volvo vehicles across all tenures;
Financing period of up to nine years, with a maximum facility of RM500,000;
Option to embed a Prepaid Maintenance and Accessories Package into the financing facility;
Facilities that are similar to a housing loan/financing which allows for reduction of principal balance and profit charges.
Volvo updates Recharge T8 PHEV powertrain for 60, 90 series models in Malaysia
Volvo Car Malaysia said, “With favourable financing rates and monthly instalments, owning a Volvo vehicle of choice has never been as hassle-free as now for Malaysians. Through the new financing programme, we empower our customers to embark on an ownership experience that is personalised for them, as Volvo continues to offer luxury designed for safety and sustainability – all of which are the needs of discerning customers today.”
The new financing programme was introduced through Volvo Car Malaysia’s its partnership with RHB Bank Berhad. Volvo Car Finance is available at all Volvo authorized dealerships. More details
here
!


2016 Mazda CX-5 2.2L Skyactiv-D arrives in Malaysia, CKD, RM162k!

Launched right alongside the
facelifted Mazda6 diesel
 is this, the facelifted Mazda CX-5 Skyactiv-D. Just one variant is introduced, and unlike our friends in Thailand, there will not be an all-wheel drive variant. Instead, we get the front-wheel drive model, and it will be locally assembled with the rest of the CX-5 range.
At heart is the same
2.2-litre twin-scroll turbocharged
 clean diesel engine, making the same
173 hp
 and
 420 Nm
 of torque as the Mazda6 diesel. It’s paired to a
six-speed automatic
 transmission, but fun is slightly limited by the lack of paddle shifters. Nitpicking aside, this oil burning variant is just 55kg heavier than the 2.5-litre 2WD variant, and is lighter by 6kg compared to the 2.5-litre AWD variant.
QUICK FACTS
Name
Mazda CX-5 Skyactiv-G 2.0 (Mid Spec)
Mazda CX-5 Skyactiv-G 2.0 (High Spec)
Mazda CX-5 Skyactiv-G 2.5 (2WD)
Mazda CX-5 Skyactiv-G 2.5 (AWD)
Mazda CX-5 Skyactiv-D 2.2L (2WD)
Engine
1,998cc; DOHC, inline-4
2,488cc; DOHC, inline-4
2,488cc; DOHC, inline-4
2,488cc; DOHC, inline-4
2,191cc; DOHC, turbocharged inline-4
Transmission
6-speed automatic
Max Power
155 hp @ 6,000 rpm
155 hp @ 6,000 rpm
185 hp @ 5,700 rpm
185 hp @ 5,700 rpm
173 hp @ 4,500 rpm
Max Torque
200 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
200 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
250 Nm @ 3,250 rpm
250 Nm @ 3,250 rpm
420 Nm @ 2,000 rpm
Price
RM128,775.50
RM142,775.50
RM155,166.70
RM166,666.70
RM161,929.10
Despite being the second most expensive variant in the lineup, it certainly is the best equipped one of the lot. The list starts with adaptive full LED headlights, LED fog lamps, leather seats, electric parking brake, GPS navigation (3D and 2D mapping) and six airbags, the CX-5 diesel benefits from additional features exclusive to its own – Smart City Brake Support, Blind Spot Monitoring System and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

Like the Mazda6, this SUV is also awarded 5-stars by Euro NCAP, and gets six airbags as standard. Priced just under RM162k, this locally assembled SUV comes in four different colours – Aluminium Metallic, Arctic White (solid finish), Blue Reflex and Meteor Grey. Mazda Malaysia is currently in the midst of upgrading their production plant in Kulim, so for those who prefer the Soul Red Metallic over the four existing hues, just wait it out a little longer.
All Mazda CX-5s come with a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty, as well as a 3-year free service package. Mazda also says their diesel models are best complemented by Euro5 diesel (to prevent soot buildup in the engine), which is becoming increasingly accessible throughout the country. As of today, there are 235 petrol stations offering Euro5 diesel.
IMAGE GALLERY


Proton shares guide to keeping your car’s interior clean and safe

We hope everyone is dutifully abiding by the Movement Control Order (MCO) and staying at home as much as possible. With that being said, there’s definitely still a need to go out for our daily necessities once in a while, which means the interior of our cars might potentially be a virus hot zone after human contact.
Recent studies suggests that the
COVID-19
 virus can survive for up to three days on plastic and stainless steel surfaces, therefore it is important to regularly clean and disinfect our cars to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.
As a continuation to the
car care tips
 provided last week, Proton has shared a few basic hygiene tips to keep our cars clean and safe – which can be useful for both the MCO period and in the long run!
Firstly, Proton recommends to
 clean all touch points
 in the interior regularly using disinfectant wipes, which includes items such as the steering wheel, gear knob, door handles (both inside and out), push-start button, infotainment display, and climate control buttons.
As for car seats, usage of regular disinfectants might cause discolouration or damage to the upholstery – especially leather. Proton recommends to use the appropriate cleaning solutions for the right material, and ensure that it is fully dried after cleaning.
Click to enlarge
One simple advice for personal hygiene during these trying times is to minimise contact by avoiding gestures such as handshakes, wash our hands frequently, and prevent touching your face as much as possible.
This simple advice can be taken to the next level in our cars too by
 using hands-free functionalities
, such as voice command and feet sensor boot release – provided if your cars come with these features.
Proton also advices to frequently clean the interior of your cars by
 vacuuming
 out the trash, dust, loose dirt and small bits of food. If possible, invest in small
 air purifier
 which can help filter out microparticles and airborne bacteria. If you drive the Proton X70 though, lucky you – the air purifier is already built in to your air conditioning.


BMW restructures its price list with 5-year warranty now optional

BMW Group Malaysia has restructured the retail prices of its new vehicles. Let’s take a deeper look to find out how the BMW restructured retail price looks like and what it means to customers.
A new column has been added to the price list and it lists “With extended warranty and service package”. BMW Group Malaysia has now made its signature
five-year unlimited mileage warranty and service
 inclusive package as a
customizable selection
.
This is just a shortened list of popular models. The price of all models can be found at the end of the article
“BMW Group Malaysia is now offering our dealers and customers greater flexibility in terms of customizable specifications and warranty on their BMW and MINI vehicles, all of which can be done on the new digital interfaces of
BMW Shop Online
 and MINI Online Shop. This also enables a more direct interaction between our dealer network and their respective customers for a more personalized product offerings at attractive prices,” said Harald Hoelzl, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia.
Customers now get to alter the purchase value of their new BMW vehicle, either taking just the standard two-year unlimited mileage warranty coverage with a new retail price or
include everything which sees the price being maintained
 whilst transitioning from 2020 to this year.

So what does the BMW restructured retail price look like? Take the latest
BMW 218i Gran Coupe
 as an example, a customer can now purchase the stylish vehicle for under RM200k at
RM199,177
 but only comes with a two-year unlimited mileage warranty coverage and no service package.
The customer can just singularly select the five-year extended warranty coverage for RM 5,300. Choosing the extended warranty coverage together with the 100,000-kilometre service package will price the vehicle

at
 RM 211,367, no changes compared to last year
.
As for the recently
introduced BMW M3 and M4 Competition models
 with sub-RM700k pricing, it excludes the 2021 aftersales package. Buyers can top up an additional RM26,240 for the said warranty and service package, which will bump up the M4 Competition’s price to RM711,040, before adding the
Innovation package and carbon-ceramic braking system
.
Extension of the warranty coverage for popular models like
the 3 Series
 and
X1 Series
 is priced at RM5,900, while the
5 Series
 requires RM2,000 more at RM7,900.
Meanwhile, the five-year / 100,000-kilometre service package that includes replacement of lubricants and air filters is priced at RM8,800 for the 3 Series and RM10,900 for the 5 Series. Interesting to note that the 100% electric
BMW i3s
 only requires a service package of RM2,700.

Plug-in hybrid (PHEV)

models still have their battery warranty extension programme that covers the battery and its units for
a total of 8 years or 160,000 kilometres
, whichever comes first. It also looks like there will be a revision to this warranty coverage, as BMW Malaysia listed the validity for purchases only until 31st March 2021.
The BMW restructured retail price is undoubtedly targeting a very specific group of owners. The restructuring allows customers to opt-out of the long term warranty and aftersales lock-in period, which some fleet owners are not keen on as they have their service providers.
BMW MALAYSIA 2021

PRICE LIST


BMW Malaysia spreads joy at the Bangsar Shopping Centre

From now till the 26th of December, BMW Group Malaysia will give the public a chance to win exclusive BMW merchandises via lucky draws.
The initiative is in support of fulfilling the Christmas wish lists of the children from Shelter, a foster home for children in Petaling Jaya.
To participate in the lucky draw, visitors can help fulfill a wish by purchasing an item off the children’s list and dropping them off in the ‘Joy of Giving’ box placed in the boot of the first ever BMW X7 on display next to La Bodega.
In doing so, they will be entitled to an exclusive BMW Christmas gift wrapper.
There will also be test drives of various BMW models such as the
BMW X3
 and the
530e
. Customers who participate in the test drive will also be entitled to a lucky draw.
Those who purchase more than RM200 worth of items at the Bangsar Shopping Centre is entitled to the exclusive BMW Christmas gift wrapper.


Audi A6 and A7 Sportback now available in 2.0 TFSI quattro, with similar chiseled good looks

Audi Malaysia today announced the arrival two new models to complete its executive line-up – Audi A6 2.0 TFSI quattro and unmistakable Audi A7 Sportback 2.0 TFSI quattro.
Both the A6 and A7 Sportback come with a high performance 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder  petrol engine working alongside Audi’s legendary quattro permanent all-wheel drive for added assurance and stability on the tarmac.
The Audi A6 2.0 TFSI quattro takes its place between the
entry-level A6 1.8 TFSI
 and the range-topping Audi A6 3.0 TFSI quattro, standing out with 18-inch 10-spoke V-design wheels, its signature Singleframe grille, LED headlights and taillights with dynamic indicators.
The A7 Sportback on the other hand provides a distinctively progressive silhouette with its long bonnet, muscular waistline and sloping roofline; making it a more accessible option for owners looking to combine the sporty appeal of a coupé, the comfort of a sedan and the practicality of an Avant (station wagon).
Both the direct fuel injection engines develop a total of
252 hp
 and
370 Nm
 of torque between the range of 1,600 and 4,500 rpm and is mated to a seven-speed S tronic transmission, delivering power through Audi’s famed quattro permanent all-wheel drive system. Zero to 100 km/h takes just
6.5 seconds
 in the A6 sedan while the A7 Sportback five-door coupe does it in
6.7 seconds
.
The insides of the A6 sedan sets the tone for business class comfort with electrically-adjustable front seats with four-way lumbar support followed by spacious and comfortable rear seats wrapped in
Milano leather
. The executive sedan also come with Audi MMI navigation plus with MMI Touch which can be accessed through an electronically-retractable 8-inch display. Other creature comforts include Audi Connect, Bose surround sound with a 12-channel amplifier powering
14 loudspeakers
.
On the contrary, the A7 Sportback projects a more sportier vibe from its interior with a more sculpted dashboard with Aluminium Ellipse silver inlays. This is further enhanced with similar electrical adjustments on its alluring sports seats with four-way lumbar support in the front and cosseting rear seats, all done up in sumptuous Alcantara-leather combination.
Tech wise, the A7 Sportback is as bristled with features with the same  infotainment and connectivity features as the A6 sedan but with additional
Audi Smartphone Interface
, providing iOS and Android smartphone connectivity through the vehicle’s MMI interface.
Both the A6 sedan and A7 Sportback are swamped with features to ensure safety and efficiency. These include the Electronic Stabilisation Control (ESC), Traction Control (ASR), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Electronic Differential Lock (EDL) and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). They also come with a start/stop system with energy recovery, tyre pressure loss indicator, hill descent control and a grand total of
eight airbags
.
The Audi A6 2.0 TFSI quattro is priced from
RM 407,900
 whilst the Audi A7 2.0 TFSI quattro will retail from
RM 484,900
. Both are now available for booking at all authorised dealerships effective immediately.
*Pictures of Audi A6 are for illustration purposes only.


BMW i8 Roadster previewed, to be launched by 2018 [+Video]

BMW i first wowed the world when they introduced the groundbreaking i8, but plans to introduce an open-top version is now an open secret.
In fact, we’re getting closer to its world debut, with the production version due for completion by 2018. It’s difficult to tell apart the new design save for the
fabric

roof
, of course. The iconic
scissor doors
 are here to stay.
It retains the same carbon-fibre reinforced plastic tub and the plug-in hybrid powertrain. The
coupe
 gets a
1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine
 and an
electric motor
, coupled with a
six-speed automatic transmission
, produces
362 hp
 and
 570 Nm
of torque. It sprints (the standard coupe) from 0-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds.
The history of the BMW i8 Roadster can be traced back to the unveiling of the
Spyder Concept
 back in 2012. The coupe was launched in 2013 and took the world by storm. Next year, the roadster, together with the mid-life update for the coupe, should propel the i8 to greater heights.


All-new Renault Koleos SUV now open for booking, priced at RM173k

Renault’s all-new second generation Koleos SUV is set to hit Malaysian showrooms sometime in September, but Renault Malaysia (TC Euro Cars) is wasting no time by taking early orders for those who are interested.
It’s the first Renault model to be introduced here bearing the company’s new design philosophy, and the SUV comes fitted with a range of features such as full LED ‘Pure Vision’ headlights, C-shaped LED daytime running lights, 18-inch alloy wheels and some really swanky LED bar tail lamps. Other exterior touches include a shark fin antenna, dual exhaust pipes and keyless entry.
On the inside, a three-spoke leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel comes as standard, as are the
8.7-inch R-LINK 2 head unit
, 7-inch screen built within the instrument binnacle, ambient lights, push-start button, electric parking brake, leather seats, blind spot monitoring system and six airbags.
Under the French skin is a thoroughly familiar platform – the Renault CMF platform which also underpins the outgoing
Nissan X-Trail
. This means they both share the same QR25DE
2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine
, producing
168 hp
 and
226 Nm
 of torque. Renault says about 200 Nm of torque can be available from as low as 1,800 rpm, making it relatively responsive at low to medium engine load. However, unlike the four-wheel drive X-Trail, the Koleos will only come with a
front-wheel drive
 configuration. Tasked with managing all the power up front is the same
X-Tronic CVT
.

Like most Renault models sold here, the Koleos comes with a
5-Year manufacturer’s warranty with unlimited mileage
. The warranty is completely backed by Renault and not by other insurance companies. Those who are looking for an alternative offering other than the
Mazda CX-5
 and
Honda CR-V
, this could be your calling.
IMAGE GALLERY


BMW 320i makes welcome return to the 3 Series line-up in Malaysia

BMW Malaysia has announced the availability of new variant to G20-generation 3 Series range, the
320i Sport
. The 320i variant was previously the best-selling variant during F30 era, before making way for the 330e plug-in hybrid.
The new 320i Sport is priced at a competitive
RM243,800
 – well within the ballpark of what the F30 320i used to command — a testament to the
local assembly efforts of BMW Malaysia
. Here are the
key specs
 of the 320i Sport:
184 hp
 and
300 Nm
 2.0-litre Twin-power turbo four-cylinder
8-speed Sport automatic
 with steering shift paddles
Zero to 100km/h in
 7.1 seconds
, top speed of
235 km/h
18-inch double-spoke
 790 M dual-tone alloy wheels (225/45 R18)
Adaptive LED headlights
 and LED fog lamps (housed in NACA ducts)
Aluminium ‘Mesh effect’ interior trim with Pearl Chrome highlight
Vernasca leather upholstery
Sport seats and steering wheel
Analogue driving instruments
 with 5.7-inch digital display (BMW Live Cockpit Plus)
8.8-inch central iDrive display
 with navigation (running on
Operating System 6
)
3-zone automatic climate control
6-speaker audio system
BMW
ConnectedDrive
with Intelligent Emergency Call, Teleservices and Digital Key
Parking Assistant with
Reversing Assist
 and reversing camera
320i Sport gets analogue dials unlike 330i, may be better appreciated by traditionalists.
Visually, it’s easy to distinguish the 320i Sport from the 330i M Sport as they both have different body kits; the front fog lamp housing of the 320i features
NACA-inspired air intakes
, along with the horizontal T motif at the corners of the rear bumper.
There is a total of
five body colours
 to choose from; Alpine White, Black Sapphire, Mineral Grey, Mediterranean Blue and Sunset Orange. Like all new BMW models, the 320i Sport comes with
5-year unlimited warranty
, and
5-year or 100,000 scheduled maintenance
 (BMW Service Inclusive Basic package).
If you don’t have RM 250K cash lying around in a duffle bag, you can own the new BMW 320i Sport via BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia’s
Dynamic financial programme
 with a monthly instalment plan starting from
RM2,788
based on estimates of an 80% loan over a five-year tenure.
BMW 320i Sport gallery


Mercedes-Benz Malaysia contributes RM200k to local unsung heroes

Winston Churchill once famously said, “The price of greatness is responsibility”. Considering the recent milestones of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) over the past two years, greatness is certainly a word to go by.
Besides selling cars and commercial vehicles, MBM plays a crucial role in the shaping of our community. The 13-year old company, a joint venture between Daimler AG and Cycle & Carriage Bintang, is one of the founding sponsors of the Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (KLPAC). Over the past 11 years, the non-profit company has
received over RM1.2 million in donations
 from MBM alone. This year, MBM kickstarted its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) by giving an additional
RM120,000
 to KLPAC, but that’s not all.
In continuing their
partnership with Driven Communications
 (which saw Driven and MBM jointly leasing 110 child car seats for the Hari Raya celebrations last year), MBM will be providing an additional 135 child car seats worth RM50,000 this year, which means there’s a total of 245 child car seats to be given out to deserving families this festive season.
The objective of this Child Car Seat Rental Programme is to create awareness and educate families on road safety, especially their children’s. Here, parents will learn how to properly install child car seats (Isofix and non-Isofix models available) and the importance of having one. These seats range from
RM499 to RM1,099 each
. But before buying them, we strongly suggest you give this rental programme a try. The only fee you pay is a minimum deposit, which of course is refunded after returning the child seat.
Also to benefit from MBM’s CSR campaign this year are non-governmental organisations Teach for Malaysia and Monfort Boys Town. Over
200 units of pre-owned computers
 will be donated to primary schools, with both the aforementioned NGOs receiving 50 units each. Three other unnamed vernacular primary schools (35 units each) will benefit from the remaining computers.
Lastly,
Hospis Malaysia
, also known as the organiser for the Standard Chartered KL Marathon (taking place this year on 7 August, Sunday), will be receiving RM20,000 as corporate sponsorship. Hospis Malaysia is a
charitable organisation
 that offers professional palliative care to patients with life-limiting illnesses, for free.
It’s little things and courteous gestures like these that shape us, and in the grander scheme of things, our country. We at
AutoBuzz.my
 tip our hats off to Mercedes-Benz Malaysia and all the worthy recipients – the unsung heroes – who collectively and continuously strive to make a change.
IMAGE GALLERY
Mercedes-Benz CSR Campaign Launch

Mercedes-Benz A250 Motorsport Edition


Here’s a detailed look at the Honda Jazz Mugen – a “sure win” look for Malaysians

Seeing as most Malaysians are so enthusiastic about personalising their cars and that most
Honda Jazz
 I’ve noticed at least, have been meddled with one way or another – with at least a spoiler – this Mugen kit should be a sure win with the locals.
After announcing that there’ll
only be 300 units of the Jazz Mugen for sale last month
, Honda Malaysia took to the
2019 Malaysia Autoshow
 to display the Jazz Mugen.
What do you think of those 17-inch Mugen wheels?
Unlike the ones on sale, which are only available in Modern Steel and White Orchid colours, the Passion Red colour on the Jazz sure makes the Mugen kit pop just a little more.
While the rear end may not look as bombastic as the
FK8 Civic Type R Mugen Concept
, the front half would surely be an intimidating sight in everyone’s rear view mirror.
On the inside, sad to say, there’s no Mugen additions or garnish to the plain Jane cabin of the standard Honda Jazz. There aren’t performance upgrades available either – bummer.
IMAGE GALLERY


Would you use a Civic Type R as your daily driver?

Using a sportscar as your daily get-around can be quite taxing for some but the
 new Honda Civic Type R
, has proven to be as docile as it is aggressive, for extended durations behind the wheel.
And it’s a trait that Red Bull Toro Rosso’s Formula 1 drivers, Pierre Gasly and Brendon Hartley can surely attest for, as both have opted for the Honda Civic Type R as their primary road car.
Dubbed the ‘race car for the road’, it holds the record for the
fastest front-wheel drive car ever around the Nürburgring Nordschleife
 with a lap time of 7 minutes 43.8 seconds.
Frenchman, Gasly, who received his new car last month commented, “I am very lucky to have a Type R as my daily car. I’m excited to try it out on the iconic Route Napoleon in the South of France, and maybe even on a racetrack where I will really be able to push the limit.
As for Hartley, whose first ever road car was a 1996 Honda Civic said, “It’s a shame that I don’t get to drive it as much as I’d like due to the busy F1 schedule.”
Gasly added, “The interior is spacious, particularly the trunk, which is important for going to the airport with all the luggage I need to carry.”


Video: Rolls-Royce Cullinan, Things You Need To Know

With the size and heft to announce its arrival not just at hotel lobbies and private air strips but in the world of posh SUVs, suffice to say, the Rolls-Royce Cullinan has also lived up to the name it was given –
inspired by the world’s largest diamond
.
Under the hood rests a 6.75-litre twin-turbo V12 with
571 hp
 and
 850 Nm
 of torque, allowing the
 2,700 kg
 Cullinan to glide to 100 km/h from standstill in just 5.1 seconds.
One of the main reasons why the Cullinan is so heavy is because it’s been lined with
more than 100 kg of sound deadening materials
. The Cullinan is also the first model in the history of Rolls-Royce to feature four-wheel drive, with rear-wheel steering as standard.
For those wondering what it would cost to have the world at your feet, the price tag is
RM1.8 million
 before applicable duties and taxes; that’s even before you start flipping through the endless pages of the customisation menu!
IMAGE GALLERY


Hyundai dealership in Brazil hires stray dog to be “Professional Consultant”

It all started early last year when the manager at a Hyundai dealership in Brazil noticed a stray dog roaming around the premises. What was thought to be a temporary appearance by the stray turned permanent and now, he’s even got a name and a “new role”!.
He’s called
Tucson Prime
 – named after the
company’s mid-size SUV
 and the
Hyundai dealership’s name
– and has been hired as the dealership’s “Professional Consultant”. He’s even got his own employee tag!
The story was picked up by the local media and guess what, Tucson is now more famous than the dealership itself; with
over 100k followers on Instagram
. The
local dealership
 only has 11,000 followers.
The manager of the dealership said they decided to offer Tucson a permanent home because of his ability to greet and interact with customers. Hardly surprising as most dogs have been known to be friendlier than human beings. Apparently, it has improved the work environment in the dealership too.
Customers who have purchased a car from the dealership have also been coming back just to visit Tucson, along with gifts for the canine.
That’s not all, Tucson’s fame and good fortune could further improve as he is expected to star in Hyundai’s upcoming advertising campaign in Brazil!


Watch the Land Rover Defender get dirty for James Bond

When it comes to off-road toughness, the Land Rover Defender has a pretty established reputation for being virtually indestructible. With the
 all-new Defender
 launched just last year, what better way is there to prove its ruggedness than to star in a James Bond movie?
Land Rover has just released a behind-the-scenes video of a car chase scene in the upcoming James Bond movie,
No Time To Die
, featuring none other than the all-new Defender, where we get to see just how tough it really is.

The footage is actually from a stunt rehearsal for the movie’s chase sequence. Despite that, the stunts are still very real, and the video gives us a good idea of the Land Rover Defender’s off-road capabilities.
Looking at the stunts performed in the video, it’s very hard to imagine that the cars have not been modified. However, Land Rover Defender Vehicle Line Director Nick Collins, clarified that there were no modifications done to the body structure,
other than the installation of a roll cage
.
“We developed a new test standard for Defender, the most challenging we’ve ever had and unique to this vehicle. Physical strength and durability is measured by a number of different tests including a bridge jump test which gave us confidence to deliver what the stunt team needed to create for No Time To Die, ” said Collins.
In total,
10 Land Rover Defenders
 were used in the filming of the movie, including the seventh Defender to roll off the production line, carrying a very James Bond VIN number – 007.
Putting these vehicles through their paces is Jessica Hawkins, driver in the Formula 3 W series.
No Time To Die
 is also the first time Hawkins worked on a movie set!
“It doesn’t get any more exhilarating than being a stunt driver in a James Bond movie and it’s an honour to be a part of this incredible movie driving the new Defender,” said Hawkins.
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Lamborghini unleashes a new 640 hp monster – the Huracan Tecnica

Automobili Lamborghini has released another monster off its chain, the Huracan Tecnica, developed for both the road and track.
Powered by the same 5.2-litre V10 engine used in the Huracan STO, the Huracan Tecnica produces the same output as the STO, with 640 hp and 565 Nm. Gearshifts are made through a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox, for a quick 3.2 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h. Top speed is 325 km/h.

Weighing just 1,379 kg, it’s the second lightest Huracan behind the Huracan STO. Lamborghini said the Huracan Tecnica emits sharper engine sound at higher revs while inside the cockpit offers improved acoustic comfort.
The Tecnica’s carbon-ceramic brakes are aided with cooling deflectors and brake caliper ducts. This helps direct airflow into the discs to maximise heat dissipation and reduce brake fluid temperatures and brake pedal travel.
The rear-wheel drive Tecnica features rear-wheel steering and torque vectoring, together with a modified Performance Traction Control System (P-TCS) and specific suspension set-up. Depending on the drive mode selected – Strada, Sport, or Corsa – the systems mentioned above come together to provide a highly different driving experience.
In Strada, the rear-wheel-steering provides stability and manoeuvrability, while in Sport mode, maximum driving fun comes from the rear-wheel steering’s enhanced oversteer and with more slip allowed by the P-TCS system. Torque vectoring ensures the Tecnica’s agility and responsiveness in the hands of the driver.
In Corsa mode, the Huracan Tecnica’s true colours are revealed; as it responds to every input by the driver with extreme precision. The powertrain is calibrated to provide optimised track-oriented throttle response and the fastest gearshifts.
The Huracan Tecnica’s revised design lends a stronger, predatory stance with a new bumper featuring the Terzo Millennio’s black Ypsilon design. The front bumper also incorporates an air curtain for the first time in a Huracan. The front hood is a full carbon fibre unit.
The rear section has also undergone some changes, with a new vertical rear glass window to improve visibility, along with a redesigned engine hood made of (you guessed it) carbon fiber. Similar to the front end, the rear incorporates a new bumper with air ducts and also houses the new hexagonal exhaust tips.
The fixed rear wing contributes to 35% more downforce than the Huracan EVO RWD. The Huracan’s new shoes are 20-inch Damiso diamond cut wheels, inspired by the Lamborghini Vision GT and wrapped with Bridgestone Potenza Sport tyres. The brakes are 6-pot caliper units in the front, and 4-pot units at the back.
Inside is a redesigned, infotainment interface that’s exclusive to the Tecnica.  The driver’s instrument panel reduces colors and emphasizes readability in a large new ‘arc’ in front of the pilot. A new Alcantara interior has also been created exclusively for the Tecnica.
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