Malaysia’s first drive-in cinema is coming soon!

Although cinemas have been given the green light to reopen in our country, many people are still understandably hesitant to sit in an enclosed area for hours, despite the new standard operating procedures. For those who are worried – fret not, because we will soon be getting our very own drive-in cinema for the first time in Malaysia!
The drive-in cinema, called M Junction, is being organised by TwoSpicy Entertainment Live and MD Events Asia – the same people who brought several unique entertainment experiences such as Dinner In The Sky and Plane in the City over to Malaysia.
 https://www.instagram.com/p/CCDT2yxlX_s/
A drive-in cinema works exactly like how it sounds. Instead of rows of seats in an enclosed space, your seats will be the ones in your own car, parked in marked-out spaces in an open-air location. Instead of loudspeakers, audio will be piped into your car through a specific radio frequency.
In parts of the world with humid and warm weather, such as our northern neighbours that also recently had their
first drive-in cinema experience
, organisers even devised a central air-conditioning system with a network of PVC pipes so that the customers can keep cool with their car engines turned off.
[Image source:
Facebook/The Luna Cinema
]
Details on the M Junction drive-in cinema are scarce at the moment of writing, but a representative from TwoSpicy Entertainment told
RojakDaily
 that they are currently looking at a launch date of
15 July
, with the location being somewhere in the Kuala Lumpur city centre.
A mixture of upcoming and older movies, both international and Malaysian, will be played at the drive-in cinema. According to the same report, the representative also revealed that a second drive-in cinema is currently in the pipeline, but offered no other details.
Drive-in cinemas have recently seen a revival in popularity, especially in the western side of the world, as a result of new social distancing practices post the
COVID-19
 pandemic. Since March, many alternative forms of entertainment –
such as drive-in parties
 – have emerged across the world so we can still have fun while staying safe.
[Header image source:
Instagram/mjunction2020
,
 Facebook/The Luna Cinema
]


Volvo updates Recharge T8 PHEV powertrain for 60, 90 series models in Malaysia – 462 hp, 90 km EV range

Volvo Car Malaysia (VCM) has announced that its 60 and 90 series models – namely the
S60
,
V60
,
S90
,
XC60
, and
 XC90
 – will soon receive an updated Recharge T8 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain here on our shores.
The key update to this powertrain comes in the form of a more powerful electric motor on the rear axle, now making 145 hp instead of the previous 88 hp. In effect, the new motor raises the total system output up to
462 hp
, compared to the previous 407 hp. Although, their
 top speed will still be limited at 180 km/h
.
Additionally, the recharge T8 PHEV powertrain also now receives what Volvo calls a “long-range battery”, with total capacity raised to
18.8 kWh
 from 11.6 kWh thanks to a third layer of cells in the battery pack.
The increase in battery capacity results in a sizeable jump in pure electric driving range, nearly doubling the previous 40-49 km estimates to now
between 70 and 90 km
, depending on the model.
The company says that the increased range means its customers can now drive primarily on electric power, which in turn translates to lower overall carbon emissions.
Alongside the mechanical changes, the new T8-equipped models will also now come with the One-Pedal Drive feature that was first introduced in the
fully-electric XC40 Recharge Pure Electric
 model. The feature allows drivers to slow down the vehicle by gradually lifting off the accelerator thanks to increased battery regeneration, which should also help improve the cars’ fuel efficiency.
“Our new line of PHEVs will transform the way our customers experience electric driving,” said VCM Managing Director, Charles Frump. “The improved powertrain lets our customers drive sustainably at a longer distance, at the same time providing them with range confidence that fits the needs of their everyday lives.”
RELATED: Volvo Car Malaysia to launch one EV per year from 2022 – XC40 Recharge, C40 this year
Other details about the updated models have not been released just yet, but expect the new cars to get the other global 2023 model-year updates, including the
Android Automotive infotainment system
 with integrated Google services.
Aside from the updates to the Recharge T8 powertrains, VCM also announced that a price adjustment for all of its other models will come into effect on 1 May 2022, hinting at a potential increase in price. The price adjustment will start with the XC40 T5, XC40 Recharge T5, XC60 B5, and XC90 B5.
As for the new Volvo 90 and 60 series Recharge T8 models, pricing details will be announced upon rollout in Malaysia. The price for the current Recharge T8 range will remain the same for the time being, and will be sold while stocks last.


Rimac C_Two will coach you to become a better driver using AI

If you’ve watched any form of top flight motorsports before, you’ll know that behind every driver is a team of race engineers, crunching data constantly to help drivers find that extra bit of performance on track. Now imagine that, but available within your own car, without the extra “engineers” – that’s exactly what Rimac has done with their upcoming
Rimac C_Two
 with its new ‘Driver Coach’ feature.
The new feature, developed by the autonomous driving department of Rimac Automotive, uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) to map out a “perfect lap”, then using the information to instruct the driver on how to extract the most performance out of the car on track – and we mean that the car will quite literally speak to the driver.

Using nine cameras, six radars, a solid-state lidar, and 12 ultrasonic sensors, the on-board supercomputer crunches through six terabytes of data per hour in order to determine the best racing line through a race track. The Driver Coach feature can even drive itself near the limits on track – equivalent to a level four autonomous system – to give drivers a guideline to replicate.
Speaking to
Top Gear
, Rimac Director of Autonomous Driving R&D, Sacha Vražić said, “What we are building is a system where AI plays a key role in teaching the driver how to perform on racetracks, at the maximum vehicle performance. Not all of our customers are professional drivers, but we want them to really enjoy the car and have fun with it.”
The Croatian outfit even has a cognitive psychologist on the team to develop the optimal identity and voice for the Driver Coach system, so you can still pay attention to it while focused on driving on the limit.
There’s also a driver-facing camera inside, which the system uses to detect stress, and can immediately take over handling of the car when the driver is in danger. Under stressful situations, humans can take more than a second to react to danger, whereas the AI system takes a hundredth of a millisecond, according to Sacha.
The Driver Coach system will be standard on the Rimac C_Two when the electric hypercar is finally launched, scheduled before the end of 2020.


Novitec Maserati Quattroporte, a 605 bhp luxury sedan [+Video]

Famed premium car tuner
Novitec
, famously known for upgrading
Ferraris
 (Novitec Rosso) and
Lamborghinis
 (Novitec Torado), have introduced their latest masterpiece, the
Novitec Maserati Quattroporte
. The project was specifically executed by
Novitec Tridente
, Novitec’s
dedicated-arm
 of tuning specialist for the Italian Trident marque.
Let’s go straight to the point here. The top-of-the-line Maserati Quattroporte GTS is powered by a
3.8-litre
 twin-turbocharged
V8
 engine that makes
530 hp
 and just over
700 Nm
 of torque; stock numbers here. The guys at Novitec Tridente have upped those figures to
605 hp
 and
820 Nm
 of torque, figures which propel the car from
0 to 100 km/h
 in
4.4 seconds
, and on to a
top speed
 of
318 km/h
. This upgrade is done by installing a plug-and-play tuning module called
N-Tronic
, which remaps the injection and combustion timing, as well as a slight bump in boost pressure.
Next up is the
V6
-powered
Quattroporte S
, in which its stock figures rate at
410 hp
 and
550 Nm
. By simply installing the N-Tronic module, the V6 engine now produces
476 hp
 and
640 Nm
 of torque. The
century sprint
 is done in
4.5 seconds
. There’s also an upgrade package for the base-trim Quattroporte. It’s powered by a
turbocharged diesel V6
 engine that makes
275 hp
 and
600 Nm
 of torque, but makes
322 hp
 and
680 Nm
 upon upgrading, allowing for a
0 to 100 km/h
 sprint to be done in just
5.7 seconds
.
Besides the mechanical upgrades, the Novitec Maserati Quattroporte also gets a
reshaped fascia
, with a
two-piece front spoiler
 made of
carbon fibre
 attached on both front-ends of the car.
Side skirts
 and
rocker panels
 are also new. The rear is now fitted with a
spoiler lip
, though customers can choose to have these kits separately. Those body kits are
aerodynamically functional
, by the way.
Complementing this Novitec product will be its
NM1, 22-inch wheels
 which are also available for the
Maserati Ghibli
. The five twin-spoke alloy wheels are shod with 255/30 Pirelli P Zero high performance tyres at the front, whereas the rear wheels get shod with 315/25 series tyres. These wheels come in varying colours, and customers get to choose from silver, matte black, titanium or titanium with polished surface.
[divider]
IMAGE GALLERY


Red hot Audi SQ5 breaks cover, gets 3.0L V6 turbo, 349 hp & 500 Nm!

Audi is off to a blistering start to the new year with the unveiling of the second-generation SQ5. It shares the same 3.0-litre turbocharged petrol V6 as the S4 and S5, with deliveries scheduled to commence as soon as April this year.
The SQ5 gets full LED headlamps and LED tail lamps as standard, as well as
20-inch
 twin five-spoke alloys. Also included are S-specific bodykits and air suspension; the latter altering damping levels through the pre-programmed Audi drive select. Inside, the SQ5 receives the high-res 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit, head-up display and premium Nappa leather upholstery.
Up front, the new
3.0-litre V6 TFSI
 weighs 14kg (172kg now) lesser than the preceding supercharged unit. It produces
349 hp
 and
 500 Nm
 of torque, numbers which yield a respectable century sprint time of
5.4 seconds
and an electronically limited top speed of
250 km/h
. The engine is mated to an
 eight-speed automatic transmission
 (tiptronic, not dual clutch S tronic)
driving all four wheels
. Audi says the lower gears have much shorter ratios for quick accelerations, whereas the upper gears are longer for optimum fuel efficiency.
Just like the Q5, the SQ5’s quattro drive system intelligently manages and distributes power to any individual wheel. When your foot is off the throttle pedal, the transmission disengages from the engine and freewheels for even greater fuel efficiency. A sport differential and 21-inch alloys are optional.
IMAGE GALLERY


Nissan resumes showroom operations nationwide, starting August 20

Following the latest government directives on the National Recovery Plan (NRP), which allowed several more industries to reopen during the movement control order (MCO),
Edaran Tan Chong Motor
 has announced that a majority of Nissan showrooms nationwide will resume operation, starting tomorrow (August 20).
However, all showrooms, including branches and dealers in Kedah, Malacca, and Johor will remain closed for the time being. Several outlets in Kuala Lumpur, Negeri Sembilan, Kelantan, and Terengganu will also only be reopened on August 23. The full schedule can be found in the table below:
All showrooms will adhere to strict standard operating procedures to ensure the safety of its employees and customers. Only fully-vaccinated employees are allowed to resume work, and will be wearing face masks at all time.
Additionally, they will also undergo frequent body temperature checks, and all frequent touch points in the showroom, including test drive vehicles will be disinfected regularly.
Tan Chong Motors Corporation has kicked-off its nationwide vaccination drive for all its employees. Read more about it here.

Customers are advised to comply with the SOPs when entering the premise; only those fully-vaccinated (with proof of digital certificate on MySejahtera app), with body temperature below 37.5 degrees celcius will be allowed into the premises. Face masks are also required at all times, and other SOPs set by the government also remains active.
Toyota and Lexus has also announced the resumption of its sales, service, and manufacturing operations. Read more here.


Watch the Toyota GR Yaris go full BEAST MODE!

Stats and figures can only convey so much about a car and since you’ve read and learnt all there is to know about the new, extremely popular
Toyota GR Yaris
, here’s some audio and visuals to give you a deeper impression of what it’s really about!
According to
the channel
, the segment of the road was closed due to construction and just for added safety, there were even spotters for traffic by the roadside.

Like the
one available in Malaysia
, the GR Yaris here also comes with the
Circuit Pack
 that offers 18-inch BBS wheels, a Torsen limited-slip differential and red GR Sports calipers. Interestingly, in Malaysia, the same specifications are labeled as the
Performance Pack
.
The first thing you’d notice is what a thoroughbred the GR Yaris is. Whether it’s steering or throttle response, the car is just a Doberman in a Poodle’s body – raring to go. It’s just so eager and quick to rev!
Notice how agile the car is as well – changing directions almost telepathically along those narrow B-roads. Even as its tail kicks out, watch how easy it is for the driver to manage the slides.
Look closely and you’ll also notice how crisps the gear changes are, with short throws for quicker shifts.
If you’ve not given the GR Yaris any thought, this should make you take a second look. If you’re crazy about it, this should make you depressed for having weak finances.

If that wasn’t enough to show what the GR Yaris can do, the driver even quoted, “The footage was not sped up, I have no reason to do so”.
He added, “The car could actually go even faster but this is right around my limit where I felt comfortable driving it. It is truly a proper little monster!”


The Porsche 911 GT2 RS Clubsport 25 is a bad-ass tribute to Manthey’s 25 years of racing success

The 911 GT2 RS is a bit of a weird model for Porsche. It’s the fastest and most powerful 911 variant on one hand, and it even holds the
official lap record
 for the Nurburgring Nordschleife. But on the other, Porsche customers rarely look at the GT2 RS, probably because it’s perhaps just a little too… extreme.
So what does Porsche do? They make an even more extreme track-only special edition of the car, of course, called the GT2 RS Clubsport 25. Think of it sort of like a sequel to the uber-cool
Porsche 935
, just without the retro-inspired bodywork.
Porsche built 77 units of the 935, but plans to only make 30 of these 911 GT2 RS Clubsport 25. So what does the 25 in the name stand for? A birthday gift for Porsche’s sister company (51% ownership since 2013) slash motorsports partner Manthey-Racing, that’s what, who’s just turned 25 years-old. Bad-ass.
For those who are slightly out of the loop, Manthey are the guys who make Porsches go fast around the Nurburgring. The GT2 RS track record was made in conjunction with Manthey, and they’ve also won the 24 hours of Nurburgring a whole seven times with Porsche 911s, including four straight years from 2006-2009.
Check out the Porsche 911 GT2 RS’s record-breaking Nurburgring Nordschleife lap here!
For the most part, the Porsche GT2 RS Clubsport 25 is pretty much the same piece of crazy machinery as the
GT2 RS Clubsport from 2018
 – no surprises there, since they share nearly 90% of their names. But of course, it’s been given a slew of upgrades, stemming from experience gleamed in the past three years.
Among them is the reworked front fascia, with the radiator now mounted centrally, said to provide better protection in the event of a collision. Clearing out the left- and right-side fascia also allows the 911 GT2 RS Clubsport 25 to better channel air to cool off the front brakes.
There’s also a new carbon fibre bonnet with two massive vents, which helps direct hot air over the car’s roof. A centre-mounted NACA duct located right above the front Porsche emblem helps bring fresh air into the 911 GT2 RS Clubsport 25’s cabin, while the rear fenders open up into vertical vents – just like the Porsche 935 – to help extract hot air from the exhaust.
Other subtler changes include redesigned lights from the latest RSR and 911 GT3 Cup race cars, updated rear diffuser and exhaust, and reworked side plates for the swan-neck rear spoiler. But the main highlight on the GT2 RS Clubsport 25 is of course its gorgeous grey and green livery, which pays tribute to Manthey-Racing’s 911 GT3 R racer, affectionately called “Grello” by race fans.
The road-legal version of the Porsche 911 GT2 RS was actually launched-here in Malaysia! Check it out here.
Underneath the GT2 RS Clubsport 25 though, it’s pretty much unchanged from the 935, with the wheels and its offset (which gives the car a “significantly wider track” than the Clubsport), steering gear, and other mechanical systems taken directly from its predecessor.
Power also still comes from the same 3.8-litre flat-six twin-turbo engine, which pushes
 700 hp
 to the rear wheels via a seven-speed PDK dual-clutch gearbox.
“With the 911 GT2 RS Clubsport 25 special edition, which we designed and developed in conjunction with Porsche Motorsport, we’ve reached another milestone in the 25-year history of Manthey,” Manthey-Racing Managing Director, Nicolas Raeder said in a statement.
“It’s a perfect example of our guiding principle ‘Closer to Perfection.’ With every modification, technological function always takes priority. That’s why the 911 GT2 RS Clubsport 25 has its very own character, which also reflects our brand values: straightforward and meticulous, flexible and uncompromising.”
If you’re looking for something less extreme, but still equally special, SDAP has just launched the Porsche 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition here in Malaysia. Check it out here!
Porsche is asking 525,000 Euros (before taxes, ~RM2.62 million) for the 911 GT2 RS Clubsport 25, which is quite a bit more affordable than the 935 to be fair. But of course, they’re only making 30 units in comparison to 77 units of the 935 – so if you want to be one of the lucky few, better get to ordering, and remember to book a few track days while you’re at it.


Mazda Vision Coupe’s design language will debut on Mazda cars by 2019

Mazda’s latest design study, the
Mazda Vision Coupe
 has just been awarded “Concept Car of the Year” at the 11
th
Car Design Night Geneva, held at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show (GIMS). First presented to the world at the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show, the four-door luxury coupe concept won the hearts of the panel judges.
Judged by a panel of 18 judges consisting of design directors at global automakers, the panel praised the Vision Coupe’s modern take on Japanese inspired design. The designers at Mazda have evolved the brand’s KODO: Soul of Motion design into a more elegant and premium styling but at the same time maintaining that strong presence it is known for.
L:
RX-Vision
 ; R: Vision Coupe
Mazda’s Managing Executive Officer in charge of design and brand style, Ikuo Maeda said: “Following on the Paris award, we are delighted once again to have VISION COUPE recognised with a global design prize. It’s truly an honour to have this model which aims to express the essence of Japanese aesthetics, applauded by some of the world’s top car designers.”
“The essence of this design concept will be evident in the next generation of Mazda cars, the first of which is due to be launched in 2019,” Maeda-
san
 added.
IMAGE GALLERY
Mazda Vision Coupe

Mazda RX-Vision


Proton Holdings up for sale, but what is really on the plate?

There’s been a lot going on at Proton over the past decade. Despite their many attempts in trying to play catchup to market leader Perodua, it’s all seems as though the slope is far too steep and slippery to climb singlehandedly.
We’re just eight months into 2016, but over the same period of time,
Proton’s brainchild, Tun Dr Mahathir, resigned as chairman
. A little over a week after his resignation,
the Malaysian government handed a soft loan of RM1.5 billion
 to Proton to pay off some 12,000 Proton employees and 50,000 staff from its vendors. And let’s not forget the management restructuring after the departure of Tun Dr Mahathir and former CEO, Datuk Abdul Harith Abdullah.
Then, just this morning, DRB-Hicom announced that the entire Proton Holdings entity is up for sale, after acquiring a
100 percent stake for RM3 billion
 back in 2012. However, the sale doesn’t translate to full control of its foreign acquirer.
The Star
 reports that the Malaysian government has the option to take up a 79.28 percent stake in Proton should they choose to convert their redeemable preferential shares as part of the RM1.5 billion soft loan deal.
DRB-Hicom is expecting as many as seven bids by the middle of this month – five named potential parties include Groupe PSA and Renault SA, Volkswagen AG, General Motors, Suzuki and Geely. Of the five, two have spoken their interest in buying over Proton in 2012, and they are Groupe PSA and Volkswagen AG.
Honda is not named as a potential acquirer, and will likely remain so
Many of you may be wondering, who in their right mind would buy Proton, and what good can the takeover do for its acquirer? Well, Proton’s past and
current exploits in the export market
 (both RHD and LHD markets) could potentially spell profit, but this of course depends on the product itself. The good news is, this is backed by
Proton’s RM600 million investment into producing Euro6 compliant engines
 that are scheduled to go into production by 2018.
Although the exact terms and conditions of this acquisition may remain as a corporate secret for now, the most promising deal would likely materialise in a partnership model mimicking that of Perodua and Daihatsu, which has shown considerable success in Malaysia. If such a relationship is established between Proton and its future acquirer, it would provide Proton the springboard to compete on a regional scale, now dominated by the likes of Suzuki, Daihatsu, Toyota and Volkswagen.
This whole process is expected to be done by April 2017. It seems that this time, the disposal of Proton is actually going to take place. Will it be another false alarm? If anything, the news did see a spike in DRB-Hicom’s shares, who is up six sen to RM1.17, so they’re off to a good start. The bigger question now is, who will DRB-Hicom serve the plate to?
Update: DRB-Hicom now denies plans to dispose Proton, but instead says that they are looking for a strategic and permanent partnership required by the RM1.5 billion loan.


Mazda CX-60 makes ASEAN debut in the Philippines – petrol and diesel 6-cylinder, MHEV only

Making its entry into the Southeast Asian market, the
 all-new 2023 Mazda CX-60
 has now been launched in the Philippines. Fully-imported from Japan, the CX-60 will be offered in the Archipelago in two variants – AWD HEV Turbo or AWD HEV Turbo-D Sport, with prices starting from 2.79 million Philippine pesos (approx. RM231k).
The CX-60 is Mazda’s first product in its
 new Large Product category
, built on an all-new platform that’s designed for six-cylinder powertrains and rear- and all-wheel drive set-ups, resulting in a longer bonnet up front to accommodate its longitudinal engine orientation.
Styling wise, the all-new CX-60 retains many of the iconic Mazda design touches, but reimagined in a modern context. Highlights include the bold front fascia with a flatter nose and unique headlight design, the latter with the daytime-running lights extending past the main lighting fixture and into the wing-shaped grille.
The side fenders also get a bold new stamping design and body-coloured claddings, paired to a generous dash of chrome trims all around. The new tail light design is also somewhat reminiscent of that of the
facelift CX-5
.
Over in the Philippines, the Mazda CX-60 will be offered with two powertrain options. The cheaper AWD HEV Turbo variant gets a 3.3-litre turbocharged inline-six petrol mill, equipped with a 48V mild hybrid system to make a total of
284 hp
 and
450 Nm
.
The range-topping AWD HEV Turbo-D Sport, meanwhile, gets a 3.3-litre turbocharged inline-six diesel engine that makes
254 hp
 and
550 Nm
. Just like the petrol variant, the oil-burner here also gets the M Hybrid Boost mild-hybrid system to increase the powertrain’s efficiency, especially during low-stress situations.
RELATED:
2024 Mazda CX-90 revealed – up to 345 hp, 500 Nm, AWD, three-row eight seater
Both powertrains are paired to a new SkyActiv-Drive eight-speed automatic gearbox that uses a set of electronically-controlled multi-plate clutch system instead of a torque converter, that’s said to offer “clean and rhythmic gear changes”, while also enabling accurate control of the 48V electric motor.
All-wheel drive is also standard here on both variants, transferring power to the ground via all four wheels for a century sprint time of
6.8 seconds
 and
7.3 seconds
 respectively for the petrol and diesel variants. Both variants are equipped with the off-road traction assist system, and the Kinematic Posture Control system, which uses the brakes to control the CX-60’s body roll during corners.
Aside from the powertrain, both variants here are largely identical in terms of packaging and equipment. Standard items here include the adaptive LED headlamps, panoramic glass sunroof, 20-inch alloys (blacked-out on the diesel variant), 10.4-inch head-up “Active Driving” display, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
The front seats get 10-way adjustability, and they’re wrapped in Nappa leather for the petrol variant; the diesel variant also adds on additional Quilted Leganu suede.
Standard safety kit is also shared across both variants, including the i-ActiveSense advanced driver assistance suite that includes radar cruise control, front and rear autonomous emergency braking, rear cross traffic braking support, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, and a driver monitoring system.
GALLERY


New Mercedes-Benz entry-level concept teased for IAA Munich 2023 – Is this the next-gen A-Class?

Mercedes-Benz is set to reveal a new concept vehicle for its entry-level vehicle line-up at the upcoming IAA Mobility Munich auto show 2023 in September this year. Looking at the teaser image from Mercedes-Benz, the concept could likely evolve into the upcoming
Mercedes-Benz A-Class sedan
 or the
all-electric CLA
.
The car in the teaser image is shrouded in shadow, as is standard operating procedure. Brightening up the image in Photoshop, though, and we can pick out a couple of interesting details.
These include the fashionable sloping roofline, a short rear deck, plus some white accents that extend significantly from the headlights and tail lights into the door panels on the side. The car’s A-pillar mounted side view mirror can also be seen and is painted in black, giving it a contrast against its red body paint.
Interestingly, the concept here doesn’t come with any visible door handles. While this could be due to its concept car nature, it could also be hinting at the car’s flush door handles, as range could be an important consideration for Mercedes-Benz’s upcoming entry-level models.
That’s because the car is rumoured to be underpinned by Mercedes-Benz’s upcoming MMA platform, which could open up the possibility for further fully-electric variants, in addition to the usual combustion engined offerings.
The rumour is further supported by a nugget of information obtained from a recent annual North American Mercedes-Benz dealer meeting, suggesting that an upcoming fully-electric CLA model will boast up to 643 km of range.
RELATED:
Electric Mercedes-Benz CLA and “electric GLC” to debut in 2024, may drop EQ name
2022 Mercedes-Benz EQA 250 AMG Line
While we may have only just
welcomed the facelifted Mercedes-Benz A-Class range here in Malaysia
, the current generation model has now actually been around since 2018 – and in modern automotive industry terms, that’s nearly as long as a lifetime.
Similarly, the current generation Mercedes-Benz CLA has also been around since 2019. A replacement is likely due sometime in 2025, putting it in just about the right timeframe for a concept vehicle now.
Besides the upcoming “entry-level” model, Mercedes-Benz will also be showcasing its next-generation all-electric models like the
Mercedes-Benz EQA
,
EQB
, and EQV at the upcoming Munich motor show. The
Mercedes-Benz E-Class All-Terrain
 will also be making its world premiere at IAA Mobility 2023.
As a representation of its vision for an all-electric future, the German marque will also be using this opportunity to show off the
Mercedes-Benz Vision EQXX
 all-electric sedan, as well as the Vision One-Eleven super sports car concept at the event – the latter only making its global debut last month.
RELATED:
2023 Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ launched in Malaysia, RM799k – 761hp, 1020Nm


Nissan celebrates 10 years of the Leaf EV with special-edition Leaf10 model

The
 Nissan Leaf
turned 10 years old in 2020. As a little celebration, Nissan has unveiled a special edition of the all-electric hatchback, called the Leaf10, to commemorate the anniversary.
The Leaf10 sets itself apart from the regular electric hatchback with an intricate
Kumiko
 pattern inspired by the
Nissan Ariya
, which adorns the wing mirrors, roofline, and boot lid. A ‘Leaf10’ model badge sits on the C-pillars, while a set of 17-inch alloys complete the exterior styling.
Feature wise, the key addition to the Nissan Leaf10 is the in-car WiFi hotspot connectivity, providing built-in 4G connectivity for up to seven devices. It also works in conjunction with the NissanConnect Services smartphone app, which provides additional remote features such as monitoring the battery charge level, locking and unlocking, as well as pre-activate the air conditioning in the cabin.
The Nissan Leaf10 is also equipped as standard with Intelligent Blind Spot Intervention (IBSI) and Intelligent Rear View Mirror, the latter usually a GBP395 (~RM2.2k) cost option, to provide greater visibility and reassurance whilst driving.
“Since Leaf launched in 2010, Nissan has continued to evolve its EV technology, connected services and design to ensure it delivers on the demands and lifestyles of owners,” Nissan Europe Chief Marketing Manager of Electric Passenger Cars & Infrastructure, Helen Perry.
“Our iconic model has attracted over 180,000 motorists across Europe. We hope that with its enhanced styling features and latest technologies such as In-Car Wi-Fi and its remote functions including lock and unlock capabilities to receive packages; Leaf can continue to excite those who are just starting their EV journey.”
No details on the Leaf10’s powertrain were shared during the announcement, but the standard Nissan Leaf is available in two battery configurations: a 40 kWh version with
 150 hp
 and
 320 Nm
 of torque, or a 62 kWh version with
217 hp
 and
340 Nm
 of torque.
Here in Malaysia, the Nissan Leaf is available solely in the 40 kWh configuration, which is good for a NEDC-rated range of
311 km
 from a full charge. Interested in a zero-emissions future? Be sure to check out our
full review
 to see what we thought about the Nissan Leaf!
GALLERY


Renault Passion Week offers daily deals on subscription and merchandise, until June 19

TC Euro Cars (TCEC), the franchise holder for Renault cars in Malaysia, is offering attractive deals and offers for its Renault subscription plans, selected vehicle parts, and branded merchandise during the
15-day Renault Passion Week
, starting today
until June 19.
The campaign will be available exclusively on the
Renault Malaysia official Shopee store
. Deals will be offered through the
“Shocking Sale”
 mechanism, and will include discounts of up to 50 percent on subscription booking fees, up to 40 percent on sanitisation packages, up to 50 percent on Renault collectibles, and up to 50 percent on Renault merchandise.
Additionally, Shopee store discount vouchers, including RM20 off with minimum RM50 purchase, as well as 10 percent discounts on merchandise and parts, will be up for grabs during the Renault Passion Week campaign period, while stocks last.
The
subscription plans
 booking fees are usually priced (without Shocking Sale discounts) at RM200 for the pre-owned Captur Fixed Plan and the new Captur Fixed Plan, RM300 for the Koleos Fixed Plan, and RM500 for the Megane R.S. Fixed Plan.
Bookings can be redeemed anytime before the 15th of August to enjoy
up to 54% off their monthly fees
 in the
first six months
 of the subscription term. For a full breakdown of the reduced monthly fee, do check out the tables below:
Aside from Shopee, these subscription deals will also be available on the
Renault E-Store
 for the
month of June
. The booking fee will be fully deducted from the subscription fee for those who complete their application process. For those who decide to not proceed with their subscription, the booking fee will be fully refunded.
For customers opting for the Switch Plans, TCEC is also bundling in a complimentary one-month subscription as part of the June offers in conjunction with Renault Passion Week.
The Shocking Sales deals will be on a daily rotation, and available for a limited-time only. Be sure to check out
Renault Malaysia’s website
 frequently to not miss out on the daily deals.


Polestar set for production in China – confirms plans to sell SUVs

Following the recent release of the
Polestar 1
, the first car to carry the company’s emblem after
a breakaway from Volvo
, Polestar had also confirmed plans for its first three models.
On the business front, a new purpose-built production plant will be built in China alongside a more customer-focussed sales approach that will be certain to set new industry standards.
All of Polestar’s future production will be fully powered by electric. The
Polestar 2
, a mid-sized Battery-Electric Vehicle (BEV) which will begin production in 2019 and will be the first BEV from Volvo Car Group.  Subsequently a larger SUV-styled BEV, the
Polestar 3
 will be rolled out.
Polestar will also be introducing an entirely new method of car ownership – you don’t own them, you subscribe for them. Polestar’s cars will have to be
ordered 100% online
 through its website or an app where their cars will be offered on a
two or three year subscription basis
.
The zero-deposit, all-inclusive subscription will also come with pick-up and delivery services and the option to rent different vehicles within the Volvo and Polestar range. With the
Phone-As-Key
 technology, it enables a Polestar owner to share a “virtual key” with a third party.
To allow customers to interact with the brand and its products, Polestar will open a network of
Polestar Spaces
 around the world – allowing customers to physically engage with the brand.
IMAGE GALLERY


BMW adds three i Charging facilities in Penang

BMW Group Malaysia together with Tian Siang Premium Auto has added three new BMW i Charging facilities in Penang at the Prestige Hotel in George Town and the Light Hotel in Seberang Jaya. The new locations will supplement the existing charging facilities at the
Gurney Paragon Mall and Iconic Hotel
.
“The three new BMW i Charging facilities are added to the ten existing facilities we introduced previously across Ipoh and Penang. As we continue to grow the charging infrastructure in these states, we look forward to strengthening the confidence in Electrified Mobility – to which we have seen progressively grow in the past few years,” said Tian Siang, Dealer Principal, Tian Siang Premium Auto.
RELATED: BMW Malaysia unveils new DC Fast Chargers for public use – 180 kW, first location now open
The General Manager of The Light Hotel, Raj Kumar, almost echoed the need to move with the times by highlighting that there’s no better time than now for the hotel to adapt to changes in mobility.
From left: Jessica Chan and Mr. Raj Kumar of The Light Hotel with BMW Group Malaysia, Managing Director, Hans de Visser, together with Tian Siang Auto, Managing Director, K.K.Tan and BMW Group Malaysia, Head of Marketing, Juleen Tan.
“By providing BMW i Charging facilities here, we hope to appeal to guests and future business prospects with a sustainable business practice that benefits the environment,” he added.
Melvin Ooi, General Manager of The Prestige Hotel is also thrilled about the collaboration as it will meet the growing demand amongst their customers for charging infrastructure.
Tian Siang Premium Auto has previously introduced BMW i Charging facilities
in Ipoh
, namely at the WEIL Hotel and the Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat.
RELATED: BMW Malaysia and its PHEV customers plant over 700 trees in Borneo


Isuzu D-Max launched in Malaysia – 5 factors that make it more SUV than a pick-up

Isuzu Malaysia has
officially launched
 the all-new, third-generation D-Max pick-up truck in Malaysia through a digital broadcast on its social media pages earlier at noon.
The all-new third-generation Isuzu D-Max will be offered in
seven variants
 across two engine choices including two variants of the single-cab. All variants will have
Terrain Command 4×4 system
 fitted as standard:
Single cab
1.9L 6MT- RM88,599.20
3.0L 6MT- RM95,538.40
Double cab

Standard 1.9L 6MT- RM99,599.20
Standard 1.9L 6AT-RM106,999.20
Premium 1.9L 6AT-RM121,549.20
Premium 3.0L 6AT-RM128,038.40
X-Terrain 3.0L 6AT and ADAS-RM141,938.40
Prices above are on-the-road, without insurance and individual private registration in Peninsular Malaysia.
Here are
five cool features
 that sets this all-new Isuzu D-Max apart from its predecessor, as well as the competition.
1. Bold yet aerodynamic exterior with Bi-LED headlamps and stylish grey highlights
Bi-LED projector headlamps with DRLs can be found available from the Double Cab 1.9L Standard 6AT variant. The full-fledged X-Terrain 3.0L announces its presence even more boldly with the Valencia Orange or Sapphire Blue paintwork highlighted by dark grey 18-inch wheels, roof rails, overfenders and other exterior items.
In order to achieve low coefficient of drag figures, the wipers feature an aerofoil design that also integrates the washer nozzle into the wiper arms
2. New 3.0L engine generates more torque and horsepower, whilst quieter
The 3.0L turbodiesel four-cylinder engine, codenamed 4JJ3-TCX, name delivers
190 hp
 at 3,600 rpm and
450 Nm
 of torque between 1,600 – 2,600 rpm, an increase of 13 hp and 70 Nm respectively. Most of the benefits come from new piston and combustion chamber design and electronically-controlled high-efficiency Variable Geometry Turbocharger System (VGS).
Meanwhile, the adoption of
double scissor gears
 helps reduce mechanical noise while diesel clatter is significantly reduced from a revised fuel injection timing.
3. Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go (all speed) and a better use of the stereo camera
Apart from the regular adaptive cruise control that keeps a distance from the vehicle in front at driving speeds, the all-new D-Max also can keep up with
slow-moving traffic under 30 km/h
.
The stereo camera that primarily used for ADAS, has its functionality increased to be used in tandem with the rain and light sensors. The sensor in the X-Terrain and Premium variants is able to discern when the car is entering a tunnel or merely going under a bridge thereby
reducing accidental
 triggering of the headlights.
Besides the adaptive cruise control (ACC), the flagship X-Terrain 3.0L variant also comes with autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring with rear-cross traffic alert, pedal misapplication mitigation and a new
Turn Assist
 function, which makes turning into junctions a little safer as it applies emergency braking if detects oncoming vehicles.
4. Interior has the ambience of a premium SUV
While the all-new Isuzu D-Max has some familiarity on the outside, the complete opposite can be found in the interior. Soft-touch plastics are used liberally on the dashboard, centre console and door panels. The stitching effect adds to passenger-vehicle ambience in the all-new D-Max.
The large seats feature
Anti-Vibration Elastic Comfort
 foam that can absorb vibrations quicker than regular design. Isuzu says the rear seats have an increase of
20 mm
 in shoulder room, plus a less angled seat back for better comfort during long journeys.
The centre of the high-quality dashboard houses a massive
nine-inch infotainment system
, projecting navigation maps from your smartphone with great clarity. The driver meanwhile gets plenty of driving information via a coloured 4.2-inch multi-information display. Clear audio is channelled through
 eight speakers
, including two roof-mounted speakers plus a Virtual Acoustic Positioning System (VAPS).
The sporty shift lever meanwhile is
illuminated
 with a soft glow, a first in its class to boast this premium design.
5. Remote Start and Walkaway Auto-lock
Not many vehicles feature the
remote start function
, what more in a pick-up truck! With this first-in-class feature, drivers can turn on the air-conditioning system to cool the cabin down together with a large rear vent.
The walkaway auto-lock automatically locks the all-new Isuzu D-Max once the key fob is 3 metres away.
For a more detailed coverage on the all-new Isuzu D-Max, click
here
.
GALLERY


All-new Kia Picanto set for Malaysian debut on 10 January 2018

Shortly after revealing the initial specifications of the third-generation Kia Picanto, Naza Kia Malaysia (NKM) has just confirmed on their social media pages that the all-new hatchback will make its Malaysian debut on the 10th January 2018.
First presented to the public
 at the
 2017 Malaysia Autoshow
,
we know that the Picanto will be equipped with
 projector headlamps with LED daytime running lights, front air curtains, front fog lamps, LED combination taillamps and chrome door handles. Inside you’ll find a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, keyless entry and reverse camera with dynamic guidelines.
The safety equipment list reads six airbags, ABS, Electronic Stability Control and Hill-Start Assist. We will have to wait for the official launch for more details on performance, exterior trim lines, variant choices and most importantly, price.
Previously, NKM offered the
second-gen Picanto
 in automatic and manual variants, both priced below RM60k. It is very likely that NKM will price the new Picanto as competitively as before. If you’re keen on having the Picanto as a potential replacement for your city commute,
registration of interest
 for the new compact hatchback is now open.
IMAGE GALLERY


Mazda CX-30 2.0G now gets powered tailgate feature

After announcing in May that the 2.0G Mazda CX-30 will come
 keyless entry and walkaway auto-lock
, alongside the
addition of a 2.0G High AWD variant
,
Mazda
 has now added yet another feature for the base model 2.0G variant.
They will now be equipped with a powered tailgate and of course, there’s a slight increase in price. The 2.0G variant is now priced at
RM144,759
, an increase of RM3,110. Previously, with the addition of the keyless entry, the CX-30 2.0G saw an increase of RM2,700.

As for the other three variants of the Mazda CX-30, the 2.0 High, 2.0 High AWD, and the 1.8 turbodiesel High variant, everything remains unchanged except their prices following the Sales Tax Exemption announcement. The CX-30 2.0 High is now priced at
RM159,109
, the 2.0 High AWD at
RM170,459
 and the 1.8D High at
RM167,673.60
.
Following the Sales Tax Exemption announcement, here’s the
latest price list o
f
 Mazda vehicles in Malaysia
.


The Mazda MX-5 roadster will be electrified by 2030

With the entire automotive industry shifting towards alternative propulsion methods as a response to the tightening emissions standards worldwide, it seems that even the purest sports cars can’t escape the wrath of electrification. According to a report by Japanese outlet
Kuruma News
, Mazda has confirmed that the
MX-5 roadster
 will be electrified by 2030, and it’ll most likely be a hybrid.
The news comes from a media roundtable session following the brand’s
announcement of its electrification plans last week
 – which will see all Mazda vehicles offer some form of electrified option by the end of the decade.
Mazda R&D and Cost Innovation Supervisor, Takeji Kojima said during the session that the MX-5 roadster is included in the “scope of electrification in 2030”, and while he did not expand further on the form of electrification, Kojima says that Mazda wants to retain the values and DNA of the MX-5 as a lightweight sports car, despite electrification.
Mazda recently unveiled a weird China-exclusive franken-SUV EV, based on the CX-30. Check it out here!
That statement strongly suggests that the upcoming electrified Mazda MX-5 will carry a hybrid powertrain, rather than a significantly heavier fully-electric one. Although, there are no indications on whether it’ll be the 24V/48V mild hybrid set-up, or a more powerful series-hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrain.
In addition to electrification, Mazda R&D executive Takeji Kojima also brought up the use of biofuel, such as e-fuel, in internal combustion engines as part of Mazda’s plans to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
Swedish hypercar maker Koenigsegg recently started experimenting with volcano-based biofuel – yes, you read that right!
Not much else has been said about the upcoming Mazda MX-5, which should be making its global debut sometime between 2022 and 2025, judging by a standard eight to 10 year lifecycle for the model. The ‘ND’ MX-5 was unveiled globally in 2014, featuring a 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated inline-four engine that pushes
184 hp
and
205 Nm
 to the rear wheels.
While Mazda may not be considering a fully-electric MX-5 for now, it seems like a proper EV MX-5 will soon become an inevitable fact, no thanks to the ever-tightening emissions regulations and market restrictions all over the world over the next decade. At least, we do know that Mazda still has plans for its combustion engines,
at least for the next 10 years
.


Initial details of Aston Martin Rapide E EV, 610 hp & 950 Nm, RWD

Aston Martin’s first ever battery-powered electric vehicle (EV) will be the
Aston Martin Rapide E
. The four-door all-electric sports car will go into production in 2019 and now the Gaydon based carmaker has just released initial details of their new EV.
The Rapide E will be driven by two electric motors mounted on the rear axle, giving the car a combined output of over
610 hp
 and
950 Nm
 of torque. Aston Martin claims that the Rapide E will be capable of a
250 km/h
 top speed and sprinting from 0 to 96 km/h (60 mph) takes just under four seconds.
The engineering team have focused on achieving effective cooling of the batteries and motors to ensure that the driver can enjoy consistent performance throughout the battery charge state. The battery pack is strategically placed where the original 6.0-litre V12 and fuel tank were located to give the rear-wheel-drive EV similar dynamics as the petrol-powered Rapide S.
Aston Martin claims that the 65-kWh capacity battery pack allows the Rapide E to cover over
322 km
 (200 miles) on a full charge. The battery pack takes a little over an hour to be fully charged when plugged into a typical 400V 50-kW charging station.
Other innovation that debuts on the electric powered Rapide includes aerodynamic enhancements to the body kit, underbody, wheels and bespoke Pirelli P Zero tyres. Aston Martin aims to achieve higher levels of aerodynamics, frictional loss and cooling performance on the Rapide E compared to the standard Rapide S.
Only 155 units of the Aston Martin Rapide E will roll out of production floors and customer deliveries are scheduled for Q4 2019.
IMAGE GALLERY


Review: If you like to drive, you’d love the BMW 118 M Sport because…

I’m going to cut straight to the chase, this is the most well-rounded car I’ve been behind the wheel of for a very long time. For what the
BMW 118 M Sport
 costs, it was really hard for me to fault it even for the slightest shortcoming.
Go to every car website in Malaysia – whether its
 Zerotohundred
 or
Carlist
 and you’d realised that everyone said the same thing – the BMW 118 M Sport at a mere RM 189,000, offers the most for your money – whether it’s performance, handling, ride comfort, NVH, in-car features or space.
It then brings me to this dilemma, what can I say about it, that would be different from everyone else? Turns out,
absolutely nothing
. So here’s how I’m going to approach this story – if you like to drive, you’d love the BMW 118 M Sport because…
despite it having a 3-cylinder engine, three less than what BMW was famous for, the vibrations so commonly associated with it were almost none existent – not through the steering, not at idle.
it did not rev like how you’d expect a 3-cylinder would. If anything, you could’ve been easily fooled to believe it to be a 4-cylinder or even six – such was the smoothness of the power delivery and eagerness up the rev range.
it’s 1.5-litre turbocharged engine, with a mere
136 hp
 and
220 Nm
offers plenty enough poke, not to tailgate Ferrari’s, but enough for accelerations to be smooth and seamless because let’s face it, everyone wants Ferrari-like performance but how often do we get to fully utilise it? In the BMW 118 M Sport, you get to squeeze every ounce out of it out without the slightest concern of it biting back.
it’s a real driver’s car despite being marketed as your usable daily driver, which it still is. I say that because with a smaller and consequentially lighter engine at the front, the whole car felt really balanced without noticeable weight bias. As such, the BMW 118 M Sport was predictable, devoid of unsettling reactions and a ball of fun to drive – hard.

you will not be able to believe how this little hatchback pulls all the way to unspeakable speeds without any signs of struggle. The saying used to go, “There’s no replacement for displacement”; in the BMW 118 M Sport, you’d realise the opposite is true.
the BMW 118 M Sport is devoid of distractions inside and as such there is nothing to distract you from the main reason of being behind the wheel – to drive. It has everything you need, and none of what you don’t. Some of you might be harsh on this fact but it’s only logical to remember that this is a BMW that costs under RM 200k and sometimes expectations should only go that far.
the steering is nice and thick, unlike what she said, is almost perfectly weighted, direct and communicative with of course, the usual controls for the radio and other such things those who really love driving wouldn’t care about.
its 8-speed Steptronic torque converter automatic is as responsive and refined as you can ever hope for a conventional gearbox to be. Sure, there is a visible lacking of pedal shifters but honestly, you wouldn’t lament having to use the gear lever to manually up or downshift cause it’s as quick to react as it is ergonomic.

you can drive real long in this car. The seats, while not the most visually-enticing, is as comfortable as it is subtle in its appearance. It comes with the necessary lumbar support and is electrically adjustable too. The seats even come adjustable rib support to really hold you in place while you explore the limits of the 118 M Sport around the bends.
it’s a real comfortable place to be. Considering how hard the M Sport suspension with stiffer springs allows the car to swing round corners, you’d expect the ride to be as unforgiving as a jealous mistress but no, on normal roads, in most real-world conditions, the 118 M Sport absorbs all the bumps and humps KL roads has to offer, as well as you’d expect it to.
you’d be rather disappointed knowing that you’d have to refuel a lot, not the car but your water bottle as the holders by the door panels are rather small. Fuel efficiency wise, the BMW 118 M Sport easily returned 500 km of mileage despite my frequent misbehaving with the throttle.
you’d get to silence your passengers, especially those at the back, from complaints and distractions because despite being a hatchback, the rear section offers plenty of head and legroom even for full-sized Asian adults.
road trips will not trouble you for a lack of space in the boot as it is abundant for all the luggage you’ll need for a short getaway. If you have a larger family or going further away, you wouldn’t want or need the BMW 118 M Sport in the first place.
every time you’re getting into it which you will, the inevitable glance of the BMW118’s proportions will convince you that you’ve bought the right car cause it’s such a looker.
with all that time spent on the road, the BMW 118 has your back when others lose concentration as safety wise, it still comes with the necessary six airbags,
ABS
, EBD,
Electronic Stability Control
, ISOFIX and Lane Departure Warning among others.
future BMW 1-series’ are going to come in FWD configurations so this current model is pretty much the last of its kind – get it while you still can.
IMAGE GALLERY


10 years after first debut, Toyota introduces 2nd generation Aqua hybrid

The Toyota Aqua might sound familiar and yet a little foreign to some. When it was first introduced at the end of 2011, the Aqua was the baby Prius, where it featured a much smaller 1.5-litre hybrid powertrain with a total output of 100 hp.
The name Aqua, derived from the Latin word for water, is meant to evoke an image of clean transparency as well as of something that is universally cherished. Also, the Aqua is meant to break the conventional image of hybrid vehicles, becoming something fluid and not constrained to any one shape or role―like free-flowing water.
The name did not resonate with consumers outside of Japan, so Toyota used the
Prius C
 name for the rest of the world. Riding on the
Prius
 nameplate helped too, as it was much easy to explain to your friends you are driving a smaller Prius than an Aqua.
The Toyota Yaris is voted the 2021 European Car of the Year! More details here!
Thanks to the short-lived hybrid vehicle tax incentive for CBU models, the
Prius C was offered in Malaysia
 for under RM100,000 in 2012, with the model being discontinued by 2014 due to a 50% more expensive price tag with the inclusion of import and excise duties.
Toyota today finally unveiled the second-generation Toyota Aqua. Over nine years, approximately 1.87 million units of the model have been sold and Toyota estimates
a reduction of 12.4 million tonnes of CO2 emissions
.
The company is approaching the development of the Aqua in the same way as it did ten years ago- a compact car that is safe, comfortable, superior fuel consumption and simple.
Compared to the
new Toyota Yaris
, the new Toyota Aqua has a larger footprint utilizing the same
TNGA GA-B platform
, measuring
110 mm longer
 together with a
50 mm longer wheelbase
. They both share the same 1,695 mm-width which enables the vehicles to be placed in a lower tax bracket in Japan.
New model
Old model
The new Aqua is Toyota’s least-dramatically styled new model. It has to appeal to many
.
Styling-wise, the Toyota Aqua looks more evolutionary when compared to its predecessor. The vertical-oriented taillamps are now much larger and feature a more high-tech look with black surrounds.
Both the Toyota Yaris Hybrid and Toyota Aqua share the same fourth-generation Toyota Hybrid System that pairs a 1.5-litre three-cylinder Dynamic Force engine with electric motors. However, for the Toyota Aqua, the energy storage features a new
bipolar nickel-hydrogen battery
.
This new construction of the battery system simplifies multiple cell arrangement for a more compact dimension whilst delivering higher output. Fuel efficiency for the Toyota Aqua is certified to be as high as
35.8 km/l
 under the WLTP test cycle, just 0.2 km/l worse than the most basic Toyota Yaris hybrid that is also lighter.
No mention of the total system output with the new battery. For reference, the current Toyota Yaris hybrid with lithium-ion battery has
116 hp
 and completes the 0 to 100 km/h in
9.7 seconds
.
The new Aqua will also feature Toyota’s version of
one-pedal driving
 called the
Comfort Pedal
 under the Power Plus mode with higher regenerative braking.
Learning through feedback from emergency services and Nissan with its Leaf, Toyota is equipping all new Aqua variants with a high-power outlet (AC 100V/1,500 W) as well as an
Emergency Power Supply mode
. This will prove useful during times of disaster where the Aqua’s battery can be used to power basic simple home appliances such as electric kettles and hair dryers.
Being a dedicated hybrid-only model, the new Aqua gets a shift-by-wire system placed on the dashboard. This allows more storage space at the lower console. Toyota is also debuting their latest infotainment display in a compact car with the new Aqua, with the screen measuring 10.5 inches.
The interior will also be more upmarket than the Yaris, with soft-trimmed surfaces at key touchpoints. As for safety systems, the new Aqua is the first compact car from the brand to offer the Toyota Teammate Advanced Park and Parking Support Brake features.
Toyota is offering four variants of the new Aqua with a price range from
1,980,000 Yen
 (RM76,000) to
2,598,000 Yen
 (RM100,000), just slightly more than the Yaris Hybrid variants. The company has very high hopes for the new Aqua too, expecting sales of
9,800 units per month
!
GALLERY


Daimler Buses converts Mercedes-Benz Citaro into intensive care ambulance

In just three weeks, a team of 12 from Daimler Buses have converted the Mercedes-Benz Citaro inter-city bus into a specialised vehicle for the purpose of transferring Covid-19 patients, by the German Red Cross Emergency Medical Services.
The 45 seater Citaro, with a standing capacity of 40, is now equipped with
four intensive care beds
 for its new function – allowing German Red Cross staff to transport intensive care patients to other hospitals safely and efficiently. At any one time, there’ll be two intensive care doctors, three paramedics and two ambulance officers present in the Citaro.
As for on-board equipment, the Citaro is as comprehensive as you’d expect an ICU on wheels to be. It’s been fitted with four intensive care ventilators, four monitoring screens, a sonography unit, a blood gas analysis device and four electro-hydraulic wheeled stretchers with a loading system, to name a few.
There are also storage spaces for medicine, other breathing apparatus, and protective clothing for the medical staff. Like conventional ambulances, the Citaro’s windows have also been laminated for privacy. To protect the driver from any risks of exposure to the virus, a wall has been erected to separate them from the patients on board.
“Something that would normally take months, even years, to develop and build was implemented within a few weeks together with Daimler Buses. This is not just a bus but an efficient means of transportation and relief concept,” said a spokesperson for the German Red Cross Emergency Medical Services.
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Wait list for Volkswagen Tiguan 1.4 TSI stretches up to four months! [+Video]

The
recently launched Volkswagen Tiguan
 seems to be rather popular with the people, with the majority opting for the RM169k Highline variant. But why is the waiting list so long?
Well, according to a representative from Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM), the waiting period varies depending on the variant and colour of choice. For example, those who opt for the Comfortline in Pure White may experience a shorter waiting duration than others who purchased the Highline in Atlantic Blue.
Besides that, their assembly plant in Pekan is heavily focused on producing the
Vento
, which is also increasing in demand. The plant is currently in the upgrading stages to facilitate assembly of their cars that’s based on the MQB platform (shared with the
CKD Passat B8
 as well).
As a quick recap, the Tiguan is powered solely by the
1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder
 engine that’s paired to a six-speed DSG (wet clutch, if you must know) transmission.
We recently sampled both the Comfortline and Highline on a trip with VPCM to Ipoh
, so be sure to give that a read to find out our early impressions of the affordably priced premium SUV. Otherwise, let Adrian take you on a First Look around it in the video below!
IMAGE GALLERY

Volkswagen Tiguan 1.4 TSI Highline

Volkswagen Tiguan 1.4 TSI Comfortline


Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupé teased ahead of debut in December

The Three-Pointed Star carmaker from Stuttgart has rolled out the newest member of the W205 C-Class model, albeit with a couple of doors missing from action. Mercedes-Benz has capitalised on the styling cue of the S-Class Coupé and channeled it here – a trait that we’ve come to like.
Mercedes has claimed that the
W205
 model will be a more driver-focused machine and hits all the right notes by having features such as the long sweeping bonnet (overall it’s 95mm longer than its predecessor), the
 “diamond”
 mesh grille and
frameless doors
. Basically all the trappings of a desirable coupe.

The Coupé is available with a plethora of various options such the
AMG-line
 which include sporty
 bumpers
 and
sills
, a
diamond-mesh radiator grille
 with
18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels
. On the inside, there’s ARTICO faux leather, AMG-style flat bottom multifunction steering wheel and AMG pedals. Giving it the sporty edge is the black aluminium trims on the dash and doors.
While the Coupé comes with conventional steel suspension that sits
15mm
 lower than the saloon, an electronically controlled
 AIRMATIC
 suspension with continuously adjustable damping air suspension is available as a cost option should you fancy.
Powering the C-Class Coupé is a job tasked for the myriad of engine options available here which ranges from efficient
 four-cylinder petrol and diesel
 engines with start/stop function for added frugality. The ones we will most likely get are the
C200
 or
C250
 variants, each with an output of
 184
 and
211

horses
 respectively.
The
 C300
 on the other hand comes with a displacement of
 2.0-litre
 but is tuned to make
 245 hp
. No V6 mills will be made available, at least not yet. Additionally,
two diesel
 models with a thrifty
four-cylinder
engine

developing
 170 hp
and
 204 hp
 are also announced to the same affect.

All this power and speed demands safety features of which the Coupé has in abundance, such as
Attention Assist, Collision Prevention Assist Plus
 and
Adaptive Braking Assist
; all of which are in place to make sure that the car is as safe as it can be, for the sole purpose of the
driver’s safety
.
But when you’re done flailing the coupe around and just want to cruise home, the C-Class Coupé settles down with you, and gives you a chance to play with some of the toys, namely the
 Audio 20 CD
 system with
HD drive
 that stores your
music
,
 videos
and
 Sat-Nav software
.
Bluetooth
 connectivity means that your favourite
Spotify
 playlist is just at the touch of your fingertips with
COMAND
.

More details on the C-Class Coupe will surface soon towards its release date at the end of this year.
IMAGE GALLERY


First Drive: 2016 Volkswagen Jetta 1.4TSI Highline, best bang for your buck

When the Jetta was first introduced to our market back in 2011 as a fully imported unit, it instantly became the most advanced vehicle in its class and thanks to German technology and build quality, it didn’t have to worry about its then RM150k asking price. Then came the locally assembled Jetta in
2014
 that knocked off a good RM19k off the CBU’s price tag. Naturally, demand for the Jetta surged.
Fast forward to 2016, the Jetta’s reserved styling aged well for a five-year old car but pales in comparison to the soulful
Mazda3
 or the futuristic
Honda Civic
. Those halogen reflector headlamps just had to go for the Jetta to stay relevant.
Fortunately, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has just released the
Jetta facelift
 that comes with a fresh face, upgraded equipment and most importantly a lower price tag. But is it enough to take on the C-segment powerhouses? We join VPCM for a media test drive in the
Jetta 1.4 TSI Highline
 to find out.
QUICK FACTS
Name
Volkswagen Jetta 1.4 TSI Highline
Engine
1,395cc; inline-4 turbo BlueMotion
Transmission
7-speed DSG
Max Power
148 hp @ 5,000 – 6,000 rpm
Max Torque
250 Nm @ 1,500 – 3,500 rpm
0 – 100km/h; Top Speed
8.6 seconds; 220 km/h
Price (OTR without insurance)
RM128,990
While we were waiting for the flag off, I must say that the Jetta has one of the most ergonomically sound interior in the segment. Allow me to explain. Every controls are so thoughtfully laid out that you never have to second guess where the buttons are and what do they do. The Multi-Function Display (MFD) operable via the multifunctional steering wheel provides all the necessary driving information you need. There is also plenty of room for five adult passengers to sit comfortably with pockets and cup holders to stow away loose items.

We started our journey at the heart of PJ which means, traffic was not on our side. Not the best way to start our day in dry dual-clutch transmission equipped vehicles as they’re notoriously known for the jerking motion at low speeds. To my surprise, with the
new transmission components
 coupled with
revised transmission mapping
, getting on the move from stationary felt like a smooth torque converter. The clutch engages much quicker and more intelligently too. With the jerking motion rectified, driving the Jetta in slow moving traffic is no longer an annoyance.
As we cruise along the highway, cabin refinement is just as expected from a VW badge – impressive. Wind and tyre noise were not intrusive even at high speeds. In addition to that, the larger
17-inch
 and lower profile tyres (225/45) keeps the Jetta well planted to the tarmac gives you plenty of confidence behind the wheel. Although this setup does make for a stiffer overall ride but it’s a trade-off I am willing to live with for the added handling performance.
With
BlueMotion technology
 equipped, the Jetta now comes with
coasting function
 which disengages the gearbox from the flywheel to allow the car to essentially coast in Neutral when you lift off the throttle at cruising speeds above 80km/h. However, to get the power back on when, the clutch does take a second or two to reengage. This is not something that I am comfortable with while travelling along the fast lane, hence leaving the system deactivated for the most part of the drive.
The same 1.4-litre TSI single turbocharged mill and seven-speed DSG combination found in the
Mk7 Golf
 is no slouch. Pedal to the floor, the class leading
250 Nm
 of torque gives a kick to your back and eagerly sets off to achieve the acclaimed
220km/h top speed
. The light quick shifts of the DSG certainly adds to the Jetta’s eagerness. It’s hands down my favourite gearbox there is in the market right now. Even with just
148 hp
, the 1.4-litre mill still has plenty of grunt to continue accelerating beyond the 110km/h mark.
To cast away the concerns of DSG skeptics, VPCM has addressed that they have
updated the DQ200
 seven-speed dry clutch DSG with more robust mechatronic, new cutch lining material, use of mineral oil as well as new transmission software to rectify the notorious DSG failures. In addition to that, the Jetta also comes with a
5-Year manufacturer warranty
 for a peace of mind ownership.
The convoy took the longer route with plenty of twisty bits down to Malacca and again, the Jetta delivers. Underneath the
Passat B7
-esque skin of the Jetta facelift is essentially a Mk6 Golf (the two share the same platform). The Jetta points to the direction you want it to go instantaneously and with great accuracy. Thankfully, VPCM has reintroduced paddle shifters to the Jetta Highline which added that extra control and sporty appeal to the car. Compared to its main rivals, the Jetta fares well but you will have a tough time keeping up with the Ford Focus and Mazda3 around the bends.
However, if you get over enthusiastic with your entry speed, body roll is apparent although not enough to unsettle the car. Of course, the Jetta facelift comes with an array of safety features in case the car is pushed over the limit. All Jettas come with six airbags, ABS with brake assist, ESC, hill-hold control, brake pad wear monitor, ISOFIX mounting points and Volkswagen Intelligent Crash Response System (ICRS) as standard.
In a segment saturated with cars trying to stand out with innovative designs and outright performance, many overlook the little details that make up the
vehicle’s overall packaging
. Take for example the Civic. It may look good as a whole but it is nowhere near as polished as the German maker. Sure, the Focus and Mazda3 may drive better than the Jetta but at a cost of interior space which defeats the purpose of having a C-segment sedan.
If I had to pick one of the aforementioned cars as a daily driver, my choice will no doubt be the Jetta. It has a well thought out interior, decent levels of performance and an attractive price tag of RM129k. To give you an idea of what it’s worth, the top of the range Civic, Toyota Altis and Mazda3 is priced at RM136k, RM139k and RM121k respectively. The Jetta 1.4TSI Highline to me is no doubt the best value for money C-segment sedan in the market today.
IMAGE GALLERY


Video: 2019 Mazda 3 LiftBack 2.0 High Plus

The “Pouncing Wombat” is back in both
sedan
 and
“liftback”
 layout and Mazda said it’s purer, more minimalist and better than ever! The new Mazda 3 is available in five different variants with
prices starting from RM139k to RM160k
.
The two base models are offered with 1.5-litre engines with
118 hp
 and
153 Nm
 while the “High” and “High Plus” models get the more powerful 2.0-litre engine with
162 hp
 and
213 Nm
 of torque. Both engines are paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The star of this show is undoubtedly the Mazda 3 LiftBack, which upon closer observation, does not shy away from the concept it was based on – the
Kai Concept
.
You may have gawked over its pictures but nothing prepares you for the sheer beauty and soul in motion of the actual car. Among the notable features offered include LED DRLs both in the front and back, 18-inch wheels, sunroof and keyless entry.
The minimalist and even more ergonomic cabin from before features leather upholstery, a 10-way powered driver seat with memory function, rear air con vents, eight parking sensors, auto locking, paddle shifters and dual zone climate control.
The High Plus variants (sedan & liftback) standsout with Mazda’s i-Activsense driver assistance system which includes Adaptive Front Lighting System, High Beam Control, Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist, Radar Cruise Control, and Smart City Brake Support.
Is the pouncing wombat still as ferocious as it was before? Here’s what GC Mah thinks!


Toyota Corolla is 2015 world’s best-selling compact car [+Video]

The Toyota Corolla has once again conquered the compact car world in 2015 with a cumulative sales of 1.27 million units. This is also the most Corollas Toyota has sold in the history of the model!
For the uninitiated, the compact car (for the United States) and small family car (for the UK) are commonly referred to as C-segment cars in this region. Such examples cars within this segment include the
Ford Focus
,
Volkswagen Golf
,
Mazda3
,
Honda Civic
 and of course the
Toyota Corolla
.
The Corolla, famous for its reliability, continues to dominate the global small family car sales chart with over 1.27 million units delivered throughout 2015 alone. Its market share improved by 0.6 percent compared to 2014. Playing second fiddle to the Corolla is a car which just turned 40 years old last year – the Volkswagen Golf – with a total of 1,024,000 sales. That’s impressive given the fact the Volkswagen’s brand was tarnished by last year’s
dieselgate scandal
.
The
Ford Focus
 meanwhile slipped 20 percent, falling down one place to third with 804,942 cars sold. Sales figures have also declined for the Hyundai Elantra, Volkswagen Jetta, Chevrolet Cruze and Honda Civic, but they still remain in the top 10 list below:
Meanwhile, the
Mazda3
 (which we think is one of the best C-segment cars on sale in Malaysia) took eighth place with 448,804 units sold, a 15 percent jump compared to 2014. In the premium segment, Audi took home the crown jewel after outselling the
BMW 1-Series
 and
Mercedes-Benz A-Class
, thanks to the hot-selling
A3 model
 with 349,901 cars sold. It’s also the only premium car in the entire top 10 list!
The
Honda City
 also deserves some mention here following its unprecedented success in Malaysia last year, which helped secure 12th placing with 286,179 cars sold. Ironically, the City is categorised as a sub-B segment car in Malaysia, but its dimension and space could really put a typical C-segment car to shame.
Closer to home, UMW Toyota has been offering the eleventh-generation Corolla (known as the Corolla Altis) since 2014. The thing is, we’re unable to determine if the Toyota Corolla Altis is the most popular C-segment car in Malaysia, since the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) would not reveal data of model sales to be made public (only
overall numbers
 are revealed to the public).
[Source:
Focus2Move
]


We are now just one week away from Ferrari’s first-ever SUV

We are witnessing history, my friends, as the first-ever Ferrari SUV is almost upon us. The Italian supercar maker has announced through its social media pages that its upcoming SUV, dubbed the
Ferrari Purosangue
 (Italian for “thoroughbred”), will be making its debut on September 13, 2022 – officially, at least.
The teaser post also gave us our first proper listen to the
new V12 engine
 at full pelt, and as expected, it’s glorious – we’re still playing it on loop in the office.
You heard it here first.
More will be revealed on the 13th of September.
#FerrariPurosangue

#Ferrari

pic.twitter.com/xQOTpdJBiM
— Ferrari (@Ferrari)
September 6, 2022

Of course, we’ve already pretty much seen the Ferrari Purosangue in full, thanks to a
leak back in February
that showed off the entire exterior of the purported SUV. Even Ferrari’s
own teaser in March
 also showed off the Purosangue’s front end completely, with just a few basic tweaks to the image.
Cheekily, Ferrari acknowledged this too, on a post from the day before featuring a darkened image of the SUV, with the caption “We know you love to brighten #Ferrari teaser pictures…”. Unfortunately, brightening the image here doesn’t give us any more clues, aside from the hidden text revealing the launch date.
RELATED:
Ferrari is making a new V12 engine for the Purosangue SUV
From what we’ve seen thus far, we know that the Purosangue will feature design cues that are heavily influenced by recent Ferrari models, including the C-shaped headlights from the
SF90 Stradale
, and a rear end that seems to be inspired by the
GTC4 Lusso
.
The front fascia will also feature a massive lower intake, with various aerodynamic elements to cater for cooling and air-bending purposes. There’s also a sculpted bonnet with a “power bulge” down the middle, presumably to make space for the new V12 engine that’s already been confirmed for the SUV.
ALSO READ:
Here’s your first look at the Ferrari Purosangue SUV
We’ll know more about the upcoming Ferrari Purosangue SUV very very soon, so sit tight – it’s truly the start of a new era. With performance SUVs from its chief competitors (Lamborghini, Bentley, and Aston Martin just to name a few…) being so popular, don’t be surprised when the Purosangue becomes one of Ferrari’s best-selling model, too – although the company is seemingly planning to limit its availability…


BMW ‘reserves’ M7 and M9 names – what’s cooking?

The BMW name has reportedly been spotted in some trademark filing documents and the model names they were ‘booking’ looked even more interesting.
BMW has reserved the names ‘M7’ and ‘M9’ for vehicles that do not exist at the moment, nor are there any indicators of it.
The BMW X7 facelift spied
It’s uncertain whether a car like an M7, with its persona and performance, would even attract CEOs and businessmen unless fleeing gunmen is a common occurrence.
That said, BMW did build a 760Li a couple of years back, with a massive 6.6-litre twin-turbo V12 making close to 600 hp. There’s also the 750i with a twin-turbo V8 engine and all-wheel drive if you had Jason Statham for a driver.
Credit:
Spyder7
The booking of the M9 name is even more intriguing as there’s never been any word on a 9-Series – you can only imagine the type of vehicle that would bear the name. With the way of the world, it’s probably an SUV but don’t get your hopes up just yet.
A little digging around revealed that sources close to BMW revealed that such exercises, like filing trademarks for names, are to avoid competitors from using the name.
If we do get an M9, or even a 9-Series for that matter, what would you like it to be?
BMW’s new gaming chair is just what you need during this lockdown…check it out here!


The DBS GT Zagato is Aston Martin’s new museum piece

Is your car collection lacking a centrepiece? Aston Martin has finally unveiled the DBS GT Zagato at the Newport Concours in Rhode Island, shown for the very first time in a complete production-ready form.
There will only be 19 units of the Centenary Specification DBS GT Zagato, and you will have to buy it as a pair with the
DB4 GT Zagato Continuation
 for an eye-watering £6 million (RM31 million). The two cars form the
DBZ Centenary Collection
 to celebrate 100 years of the legendary Zagato signature, and Aston Martin’s 60 years of partnership with the Italian design house.
Based on the
DBS Superleggera
, the DBS GT Zagato will be using the same 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine, but this time with power bumped up to
770 hp
! No official torque figures and sprint times have been announced yet. We expect the DBS GT Zagato to also carry forward the 8-speed ZF automatic transmission from the DBS Superleggera.
The DBS GT Zagato at the Newport Concours is draped in Supernova Red – a paint colour reserved exclusively for the Centenary Collection edition DBS GT Zagato – matched with contrasting satin black and gold 3D machined wheels.
The active grille in its “closed” position.
…how it looks like when it’s open.
The car also carries intricate details such as solid 18-carat gold wing badges, gold anodised side strakes and centre lock wheel nuts, carbon fibre roof, and the “living” 108-piece active grille.
The over-the-top design choices also extend to the interior of the car. Wrapped in Caithness Spicy Red upholstery, the central “saddle” design console is accentuated with a gold garnish, using a technique called physical vapour deposition which Aston Martin says
takes upwards of 100 hours to print and polish
.
We are not too sure about the gold garnishes, but we certainly don’t have RM31 million lying around..
If the design is still not up to your standards, the ‘Q by Aston Martin’ customisation service can help you take it up a notch, with free reign of material, finish and geometry choices to create completely bespoke components.
Aston Martin Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer, Marek Reichman said, “The design studio at Aston Martin has risen to the task magnificently, working alongside Andrea (Zagato) and his team. They have taken the already fabulous DBS Superleggera and shaped it into something which retains its Aston Martin identity, yet expresses itself as only a Zagato can. It is the modern expression of a timeless icon.”
IMAGE GALLERY


Can disposing cars above 10 years old improve traffic congestion?

Of late, it’s obvious that traffic has taken a turn for the worse even when compared with pre-Covid times; that’s even before it starts to rain, at peak hour, on a Friday.
University Kebangsaan Malaysia, Head of Traffic Psychology and Road Safety, Professor Dr. Rozmi Ismail, who is leading a team of researchers to resolve traffic congestion in the capital, thinks they have the answer to the problem – by restricting/disposing of cars above 10 years old from our roads.
“Logically, disposing of these old cars would prevent owners from further spending more money to maintain them,” he said.
According to Dr. Rozmi, the policy will balance out the number of old and new cars on the road. He also added that disposing these old cars will also reduce carbon emissions.
On how disposing of old cars can improve traffic congestion, Dr. Rozmi said that with every disposal of an old car, it’s bound to be replaced by a new car – something that’s undoubtedly easier said than done – people just can’t afford new cars.
Dr. Rozmi also added that for those with two vehicles or more at home, it won’t be a problem as they can drive either car that isn’t due for disposal.
We wonder which country, planet of even reality the esteemed Dr. Rozmi is residing in.


Throwback Thursday: Peugeot’s illustrious racing history

When people talk about Peugeot these days, most will think of the 208s or the SUVs that they mostly make now; not so much about performance or racing. So when Peugeot announced that they will be returning to the World Endurance Championship (WEC) in 2022, many people were left bewildered at that notion.
Little do they know though, Peugeot actually has a very illustrious racing history dating all the way back to 1895! We thought we’d look back at some of Peugeot’s most successful racing cars, as a precursor to what the French brand might bring to the table in the 2021/22 season.
 Photo: McKlein Image Database
Rally
Group B rally, introduced in 1982, was often hailed as the “golden age of rally”. If so, the golden car of the golden age would be the Peugeot 205 Turbo 16 (T16).
Although looking like the 205, the rally car actually barely has anything to do with the street-legal supermini. Underneath the 205 camouflage is a spaceframe chassis, while a 1.8-litre turbocharged engine mounted in the middle sends power to a permanent four-wheel drive set up.
Photo: McKlein Image Database
The 205 T16 was introduced in 1984, and went on to win three times in the first year. The improved 205 T16 Evolution 2 reportedly made upwards of 600 hp, which propelled the little Peugeot to a total of 16 victories – making it the most successful Group B car of all time.
The 205 T16 Evo 2 also went on to win the Paris Dakar twice, and only retired when the 405 T16 (which was really just a rebodied 205 T16) was introduced for Dakar in 1989.
Photo:
Nic Redhead/Flickr
Pikes Peak Hill Climb
Pikes Peak is frequently called the Devil’s Playground due to the challenging 156 turns, many of which would send you off a cliff with a single mistake. Coincidentally, the famed hill climb is also one of Peugeot’s favourite playground.
The 405 T16 won the Pikes Peak hill climb twice in 1988 and 1989, but it was the 2013 attempt that really cemented the French brand as an immortal figure at the course. Piloted by nine-times WRC Champion Sebastian Loeb, the 208 T16 Pikes Peak shattered the course record with a time of 8 minutes 13.9 seconds.

A 3.2-litre V6 engine provides motivation to the tune of 887 hp. Paired with a car that weighs only 875 kg, 0 to 100 km/h takes just 1.8 seconds, and the T16 reached 240 km/h in just seven seconds.
The lap record set by the 208 T16, which bettered the previous by more than 1:30 minutes, held on for five years. It was until 2018 that the record was beaten, by the Volkswagen ID.R electric car by about 17 seconds.
Photo: Peugeot
Le Mans
Peugeot’s efforts in Le Mans actually started even before the 24-hour race format was established in 1912. But it was only in 1992 when Peugeot finally claimed its first 24 hours of Le Mans victory, with the glorious 905 howling to an unmistakable V10 tune.
The Peugeot 905s began racing in Le Mans in 1991, and were actually the fastest cars that year. However, mechanical reliability plagued the cars within the first six hours, giving the win to the Mazda 787B.
Photo:
Thomas Doerfer
/
Wikimedia
In 1992, Peugeot came back with a revised 905B featuring a reworked and more powerful engine, winning them five out of six World Sportscar Championship races, including Le Mans. The 905B also raced in the 1993 24 Heures Du Mans with a three-car effort, bagging them the historic 1-2-3 finish.
Peugeot returned to prototype racing in 2007 with the 908 HDi FAP, powered by a 5.5-litre twin-turbo V12 engine. However, they struggled to keep up the pace with main rival Audi, finishing second behind their German rivals.
Photo: DoomWarrior/
Wikimedia
In the 2009 24-hour of Le Mans, the stars aligned. Fielding four cars, Peugeot finally managed to clinch victory in style with a 1-2 finish – 16 years after their last win in the endurance race.
Looking back at Peugeot’s successful racing history, it’s no wonder that racing fans are excited by the announcement of their return to WEC. Will Peugeot be as successful as they were before? Only time will tell.
But one thing we do know is that it’ll make for brilliant racing with more manufacturers joining the race.


We helped Porsche set a new EV record – from Thailand to Singapore in 29 hours 15 mins!

Porsche
has set a new record for the “fastest single journey in an EV from Thailand to Singapore” with a
Taycan 4S Cross Turismo
, completing the run in just
29 hours and 15 minutes
. Dubbed the “Taycan Record Run”, the feat was achieved by three journalists from Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia – including our very own Pan Eu Jin!
The trio – with Pholpat Salayakanond from Thailand and Desmond Chan from Singapore – drove in shifts across the gruelling 1,845 km route, stopping only for short charging intervals along the journey from Bang Yai, the outskirts of Bangkok, to Garden by the Bay in Singapore.
The Porsche Taycan 4S Cross Turismo used for the challenge is equipped with the Performance Battery Plus package, which after the
software update in 2022
, boasts an improved WLTP-rated electric driving range of 512 km in a single charge.
However, the run will not be possible without the
cross-country Shell Recharge HPC network
, which was jointly set up by Shell and Porsche last year. The network’s 180-360 kW ABB chargers and the Porsche Taycan’s 800V electrical architecture means that each charging interval took no more than 25 minutes on average, saving them valuable time that can be used on the roads.
With the Porsche Taycan’s efficiency, the trio only had to make a handful of charging stops during the journey – each greeted with friendly wishes thanks to the car’s special 75th anniversary livery. Despite the record attempt, Porsche noted that the trio were not afforded any additional benefits aside from the 60 minutes reserve period already accorded to all Porsche owners on the Shell Recharge network.
Along the way, the record-breaking car was also kept within all prevailing speed limits, not just for the sake of the legality of the record, but also to prevent unnecessary battery usage.
ALSO WATCH:
A day on the road and track with the Porsche Taycan!

After crossing the Malaysia-Singapore border early on Wednesday morning, the record-breaking Porsche Taycan finally arrived at the SG50 Lattice structure within Gardens by the Bay – serving as the finishing line – at 10:15 AM.
A short verification of the timing sheets by TAG Heuer timekeepers later, and it’s official: the Porsche Taycan and – I can’t believe I’m saying this – Eu Jin is now a record holder in both the Singapore and Malaysia Book of Records.
“Together with Porsche Singapore and Porsche Thailand, we are pleased to spearhead the first cross-border EV drive across three countries – Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore, proving that seamless long-distance travel in an EV is now a reality,” Sime Darby Auto Performance CEO, Christopher Hunter.
Shell Mobility Malaysia General Manager, Seow Lee Ming adds, “Shell Malaysia is extremely proud that 14 of our Shell Recharge High Performing Chargers strategically placed at 7 locations alongst the North – South Highway have facilitated this record-setting drive. This further demonstrates our effort in pioneering the future of mobility to provide EV drivers with a reliable, smooth and convenient network connecting the countries of Thailand all the way to Singapore via our Shell Recharge network in Malaysia.”
READ MORE:
Shell Recharge HPC network now fully operational in Malaysia – 6 DC chargers along North-South highway
GALLERY


Aston Martin named Luxury Brand of the Year

Not only has it built a name synonymous with all things James Bond, Aston Martin has recently been named “Luxury Brand of the Year” at the Luxury Briefing Awards – also known as the “Oscars of the Luxury Industry”.
The Aston Martin brand was describe as a  “powerful, hugely aspirational brand that is the epitome of luxury” and defied anyone in the room not to covet it.
The last 12 months have been
Annus Magnificus
 for the brand as it soared into profit, increasing in sales by an astonishing 8% in the first half of the year alone – considered as one of the fastest turnarounds and renaissances the luxury industry has ever seen.
“It’s a great honour to be named Luxury Brand of the Year. At Aston Martin Lagonda we have a fantastic team that lives and breathes this beautiful brand, working to grow and develop our presence across the world. With each car launch, each new brand partnership or lifestyle event, we get closer to our current and future customers,” said Aston Martin Lagonda Vice-President and Chief Marketing Officer, Simon Sproule.


2014 Mazda5 SkyActiv launched in Malaysia, priced at RM153k [+Video]

Bermaz Motor Sdn Bhd, together with the sole and exclusive importer of Mazda vehicles Prima Merdu Sdn Bhd introduced the new
Mazda5 SkyActiv
 in Malaysia. The MPV which retains its current look now has adopted Mazda’s SkyActiv Technology and selling at RM153,019.
QUICK FACTS
Name
Mazda5 SkyActiv

Segment
MPV / C-MAV (Compact Multi-Activity Vechicle
Engine
SkyActiv-G 2.0L, 4-Cylinder, DOHC 16 Valve
Transmission
SkyActiv-Drive 6-speed AT
Max Power
149hp @ 6,000 rpm
Max Torque
190Nm @ 4,100 rpm
Price
RM 153,019
(OTR without insurance)

Mazda’s SkyActiv technology was first implemented in the Mazda CX-5, followed by Mazda6, the newly launched Mazda3 and the Biante MPV. Then it is Mazda5’s turn to adopt the SkyActiv Technology and join the new line-up.
Exterior
The appearance with its “Nagare flow” design has not changed from the current Mazda5 except for the “SKyActiv Technology” badge on its tailgate. That makes us wonder when the Mazda5 with KODO design will be introduced.

The headlights on this MPV are halogen lights with Auto on-off, equipped with foglights, rear lights are bulbs, side mirrors come with turn indicators, 16-inch alloy wheels and it has a pair of powered sliding rear doors.
Interior
The Mazda5 has the unique ‘
karakuri
‘ seventh seat that allows you to carry six or seven occupants at a time. When required, the seat folds out of the left second-row seat to accommodate the seventh passenger. The ‘karakuri’ seat can be converted to ‘karakuri’ utility box when not in use.

There are three LCD screens in total with one in front, and additional headrest monitors for second row passengers. Audio system comes with CD, DVD, MP3 and USB features together with four speakers. Steering wheel and gear knob are leather wrapped, and the windscreen wipers are equipped with rain sensors. As for airbags, it comes with only two.
Performance
The new Mazda5 SkyActiv features the SkyActiv-G engine and the SkyActiv-Drive automatic transmission. Without the the rest of the technologies such as the SkyActiv-Chasis and SkyActiv-Body, it is not complete SkyActiv model as yet.
Its SkyActiv-G 2.0L engine has the highest compression ration in its class at 14.0: 1, providing better fuel efficiency and emission control. Together with the SkyActiv-Drive 6-speed automatic gearbox, it produces
149 horsepower
 and
190 Nm
 of torque. Acceleration figure from 0 to 100 km/h is at
11.4 seconds
, with the top speed of
194 km/h
. It uses
6.6 litres
 of fuel to cover a distance of 100km.
Comes with the SkyActiv technology is the
i-stop
 feature that cuts the engine after eight seconds of idling to save fuel. The engine auto start again when its aircond compressor needs to operate to maintain cabin temperature.
What else…
In our video interview with Dato’ Amer Hamzah Ahmed, Executive Director of Prima Merdu Sdn Bhd, he said the Mazda5 SkyActiv is positioned to provide a comprehensive Mazda line-up for buyers, as the MPV’s contribution in sales figure is not as significant.
Mazda5 SkyActiv comes in four colours; Aluminium Metallic, Crystal White Pearl Mica, Meteor Grey Mica, and Jet Black Mica. Selling Price is
RM153,019
 OTR without insurance.
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VIDEO GALLERY
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IMAGE GALLERY


Volkswagen and Malaysian Relief Agency helped 850 victims with post-flood recovery

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) donated
RM20,000
 to the Malaysian Relief Agency (MRA) to help
victims with post-flood recovery
. Beneficiaries are made up of 850 victims from 170 families in Teluk Gong, Klang.
VPCM’s donation was channelled towards providing essential food packs and electrical appliances such as rice cooker, kettle, and blender. A group of VPCM employees also volunteered with MRA over the weekends to extend a helping hand too.
MRA is a humanitarian organisation that focuses on assisting those affected by natural disasters or armed conflicts.
“It is a sobering reality that thousands of Malaysians are still facing the impact and damages left behind in the wake of the severe floods.”
“At VPCM, we believe that it is our social responsibility to help those in need as our #WeNotMe spirit extends beyond the company. We hope that our contributions would help the victims to rebuild their lives,” expressed VPCM, Managing Director, Erik Winter.
MRA’s Vice President, Khairil Annuar Khalid said, “MRA’s distribution of assistance is based on phases and as the emergency phase ends, MRA will continue to assist in the early recovery phase. We welcome and are happy to receive funds from the public and corporate bodies such as VPCM who generously contributed RM 20,000. At this stage, it is such a relief for victims who have lost everything to be given assistance in any form.”
To recap, VPCM is offering
30% off
 parts and labour for repair works to assist Volkswagen owners whose vehicles were affected by the floods. Additionally, VPCM is participating in the government’s Keluarga Malaysia Automotive
Discount Voucher
 initiative where owners can claim up to RM1,000 for repair or replacement.
VPCM further added for those who just wish to contribute to MRA’s post-flood relief assistance can donate to
Tabung Bantuan Kecemasan Mengharungi Monsun MRA
 (CIMB Bank – Malaysian Relief Agency – Account no. 86000 59478).


Watch the Honda Civic Type R break another FWD lap record at Spa

In the second round of the 2018 Type R challenge, the FK8 Civic Type R has set a new production FWD lap record at the Spa-Francorchamps circuit in Belgium with a time of 2 minutes 53.72 seconds in the hands of former FIA WEC LMP2 class World Champion, Bertrand Baguette.
The 2018 Type R challenge will see the FK8 attempting to beat the FWD lap records in
five different circuits,
piloted by five different drivers. Just last month, the Civic Type R
 broke the FWD lap record at the Magny-Cours circuit
 with Honda Racing’s WTCR race driver Esteban Guerrieri behind the wheel.
The Spa-Francorchamps circuit is
one of the longest tracks in motor racing
 with long fast straights and high speed corners – where the Type R excelled with the explosive acceleration of its 2.0-litre VTEC turbo engine and aerodynamic advantage.
“With a front-wheel drive usually you always expect understeer but this car is so balanced. Straight away you get a lot of confidence as it gives you a lot of feedback through the steering wheel, especially in +R mode. The chassis is very rigid, the rear is very stable and the front is biting really well to give you a lot of front grip. The aero package really helps the car feel planted at high speed and it’s amazing the level of traction,” said Bertrand Baguette.
“For me as a race car driver, it’s clear that Type R is born for the track but it also feels just as right on the streets in everyday driving. When I sit in the car, it is very comfortable and the visibility all round is very good,” he added.
Interestingly, Honda also set the previous lap record during a similar challenge in 2016, with the previous generation Civic Type R. The new FWD benchmark time for the Spa circuit is the
3rd lap record to be claimed by the new FK8 Civic Type R –
the other two took place at Magny-Cours and Nurburgring.
Earlier this year, the Civic Type R set itself apart by being the
fastest front-wheel drive production car ever
around the Nürburgring
 Nordschleife
, with a lap time of 7 minutes 43.8 seconds.
Other drivers confirmed for the
remaining three Type R Challenge 2018
 circuit record attempts include former Formula 1 World Champion Jenson Button, WTCR driver Tiago Monteiro and BTCC legend Matt Neal.
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