SDAC offers discounts of up to RM9K for the Ford Ranger XLT Family

Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC), the official distributor for Ford vehicles in Malaysia, has announced that it is offering discounts of up to RM9,000 for the
Ford Ranger XLT family
 of pick-up trucks.
Three variants are available on offer, starting with the standard Ranger XLT, available with a savings of
RM9,000
. Meanwhile, the Ranger XLT Special Edition is available with a discount of
RM8,000
. The XLT Plus variant gets a rebate of
RM7,188
.
As a recap, the Ranger XLT is equipped with a 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine with an output of
 160 hp
and
385 Nm
of torque. The engine is paired to either a six-speed manual (RM109,888) or automatic transmission (RM116,888).
The
 XLT Special Edition
 (RM120,888) is based on the standard Ranger XLT AT, with some additional goodies such as
fender flares
,
functional cargo bed cover
,
geometrical decal
, along with an updated
nine-inch Android-based infotainment display
.
On the top-end of the XLT Family is the Ranger XLT+ (RM124,888), equipped with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder single-turbodiesel mill, producing
180 hp
 and
420 Nm
 of torque. The XLT+ is only available with a
10-speed automatic gearbox
.
The XLT Family Promotion runs from
1st of March until 31st of May 2020
.


The new Range Rover Velar takes a walk in the park with Euro NCAP tests

We’ve seen the Land Rover
race against huskies
; we’ve also seen it
tow “road trains”
. It seems like there’s nothing Land Rover’s cars can’t do. This time, the middle child between the
Evoque
 and the
Range Rover Sport
, the
Range Rover Velar
has just scored a 5-star Euro NCAP rating – not only elevating its status as one of the world’s most desirable luxury SUVs but also among the safest.
The Velar scored
93%
 for adult occupant protection,
85%
 for child occupant protection and
74%
 for pedestrian protection.
With a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Autonomous Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, its advanced technology can detect a collision risk with cars or pedestrians up ahead before automatically applying the brakes. Such was the system’s competence that it was awarded a maximum of six marks in the Pedestrian detection tests by Euro NCAP’s testers.
Jaguar Land Rover UK, Managing Director, Jeremy Hicks said, “For Velar customers, only the best is good enough and we are delighted the fourth Range Rover has been awarded five-star safety credentials. This, combined with excellent residual values and stunning design really set Velar out as a car that appeals to the heart and the head.”
The Velar scored an overall Euro NCAP rating of
84%
 with a list of advanced driver assistance systems that will tangle your brain’s nerves. They include the Autonomous Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Reverse Traffic Detection, Lane Keep Assist, Matrix-Laser LED headlights, Intelligent Speed Limiter, Traffic Sign Recognition and Driver Condition Monitor.
“Tests of the autonomous emergency braking system at highway speeds demonstrated good performance, with collisions avoided or mitigated in all tests. In both the side barrier test and the more severe side pole impact, protection of all critical body areas was good and the Range Rover Velar scored maximum points”, in a report by Euro NCAP.
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Facts and Figures: Maserati MC20 launched in Malaysia from RM1.078 million

Maserati Malaysia has welcomed the
all-new first-ever MC20
supercar to the country with prices starting from RM1.078 million before duties and options. The MC20 name stands for ‘Maserati Corse’ while the 20 denotes the year 2020 – when it was first introduced.
The new supercar is an evolution of the MC12 supercar from 2004 that marked Maserati’s return to racing after 37 years. With the new MC20, Maserati will once again return to the world of racing.
Performance
Engine: 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6
Transmission: 8-speed dual-clutch
Power: 630 hp
Torque: 730 Nm
The new MC20 features Maserati’s new Nettuno engine that not only features the company’s new Twin Combustion technology derived from Formula 1 featuring twin spark plugs but it’s also the first engine made by Maserati themselves in over 20 years.
0 to 100 km/h takes
2.9 seconds
, 0 to 200 km/h 8.8 seconds and if you go full throttle long enough, you’ll see the digital speedometer nudging its
325 km/h
 top speed.
Exterior
The MC20’s body took the company 24 months to design, including time in the wind tunnel and various simulations. The entire structure of the MC20 is a carbon fibre monocoque and as a result, the MC20 weighs less than 1,500 kg – even lighter than a BMW 320i – but with the power of a supercar. Imagine that!
Under wheel arches are 20-inch rims, wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza tyres. Behind them are Brembo 6-pot brakes in the front and a 4-pot pair in the rear. The butterfly-style doors come with flush handles but that’s not the coolest bit of the exterior in our opinion.
Instead, it’s the glass engine cover at the back with cut-outs to mimic the company’s Trident logo and because the MC20 is a mid-engined supercar, it comes with a boot in the back and a frunk.
Interior
As you enter the Maserati MC20 through its butterfly-style doors, you’d instantly notice the exposed carbon fibre on the doors – quite a sight to behold. While you’re closing the doors, using the pull strap, you’d also notice that the doors are opened using a switch – just like the new Lexus NX launched in Malaysia recently.
Inside, it’s a very minimalist interior with not much to distract the driver from the main task of being in the cockpit – to enjoy the drive. It’s evident with the centre console as well; with a rotary dial for the five different drive modes and suspension settings and two switches to put the MC20 either in reverse or drive/manual mode.
That along with two 10-inch displays – one for the instrument cluster and the other for the infotainment system – along with a couple switches for the volume and power windows are practically all the furnishing the cabin comes with. The steering is made of carbon fibre and Alcantara with gear shift paddles protruding from behind it. Cruise control and wireless charging are among the creature comforts offered.
In typical Italian fashion, you get brake pedals with the Trident engraved onto it, while the front passenger is greeted with a steel plate with the words ‘Maserati’ engraved on it.
The all-new Maserati MC20 was designed in Modena and will be built at the Viale Ciro Menotti plant, where Maserati vehicles have been built for more than 80 years. The site also features a new paintshop incorporating innovative, environment-friendly technologies. The Nettuno engine will also be built in Modena, at the newly established Maserati Engine Lab.
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Reckless drivers causing death should be banned for life, said MOT

Reckless drivers who cause death on our roads should be banned for life said Minister of Transport, Anthony Loke in a press conference yesterday as he addressed the fatal accident on the North-South Expressway last weekend.
The accident which involved a trailer and three cars saw five trapped and killed in one of them, a Kia Forte, when it burst into flames. The driver had been detained and he may not have any prior criminal records, he tested positive for drugs with 28 traffic offences to his name.
Even the company, Usaha Maju Trading, which the trailer is registered under has been suspended for two weeks, where its fleet of 28 vehicles have been grounded and not allowed to operate, pending an investigation by the ministry and relevant authorities.
Loke pointed out that the current provision where a driver who’s found guilty for causing death by reckless driving cannot hold nor obtain a driver’s license for at least 3 years – is simply not enough to deter irresponsible road users from riving recklessly.
As such, amendments to the law will be studied before being tabled in the Parliament.
It’s been a long time coming; it has taken a lot of deaths but we’re relieved to see that the Ministry is finally (hopefully) taking this matter seriously.
While we’re definitely missing the train in becoming a first world nation with only two years left on the clock, this is the kind of mentality, leadership and most importantly proactive initiatives that will help us achieve that elusive status.
We can have fancy roads, fancy public transportation and even fancy trailers for low-life scumbag truck drivers to operate on the road but if the mindset and stern actions are not in place to “force” drivers to take road safety seriously, we might as well just walk on our bare feet like our gravel-trotting, cavemen ancestors.
Image credit:
Ministry of Transport Malaysia (Facebook)


Now Lamborghini’s planning a four-door vehicle but unlike Ferrari, it’s a sedan

Just as we mentioned earlier on Ferrari’s confirmation on the eventual production of an SUV, news have surfaced that Lamborghini is also working on a four-door model but unlike
Ferrari’s “FUV”
, it will be a sedan.
Based on reports by
Autocar
, the slightest glimpse of how it would look like won’t be due till at least early of next decade but design inspiration would be heavily carried over from the Estoque concept car unveiled at the Paris Motor Show almost a decade ago.

This further diversifies Lamborghini’s production portfolio of Huracans and Aventadors. This follows after the unveiling of the
Lamborghini Urus SUV
earlier this year which is said to be due in the middle of next year – a move that has been inspired by Porsche’s the bold leap of faith almost two decades ago to produce SUVs – a move that has proven not only to be a success but a saving grace to their financial woes.
Seen as a means to bridge the gap between the super/hypercar models, the new four-door was said to be based of the Estoque concept revealed in Paris almost 10 years ago, but put on hold in favour of the Urus due to surge in demand for SUVs. Work on the Urus is already underway at the newly-expanded Lamborghini factory in Sant’Agata Bolognese where investments poured in prior are expected to be justified by increased sales and profits from the Urus.
As for Lamborghini’s four-door, family-oriented super sedan, it will most likely be based on VW Group’s MSB platform which also underpins the
 2017 Porsche Panamera
and the new Bentley Continental GT for ease of production. What we can also expect is the adaptation of the Urus’ power plant, a
650 hp
 twin-turbo V8 in the new sedan, with the possibility of the Huracan’s V10 engine.
Source:
Autocar
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Honda City 1.5 Hybrid i-DCD unveiled – elevating hybrid excitement!

Honda Malaysia today unveiled the new City Sport Hybrid i-DCD, the second hybrid model to be introduced after the new Jazz Hybrid. This also makes Malaysia the only market outside of Japan to receive this new City.
This follows the successful introduction of the new City last March which gathered a staggering 12,000 units in just four months while over 115,800 units of its fourth-generation model sold since its launch in March 2014.

The new City is powered by a 1.5-litre DOHC i-VTEC engine with an Integrated High Power Motor that produces a combined total of
135 horsepower
 and
170 Nm of torque
, figures which are comparable to the output of a 1.8-litre engine. The immensely frugal fuel consumption of the new City is rated at
3.9 L/100km
.
The new City Hybrid is equipped with a 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) with Paddle Shift which employs a Shift-by-Wire Gear system, providing quicker and smoother gear shifts with no lag and clutch slip.
On the inside, the new City is equipped with an advanced 3D Meter Design (Multi-Information Display) to project various parameters of the car including Energy Flow, Sport Meter, Fuel Economy, Drive Info and ECO display. The centre console also comes with a 6-8-inch Display Audio, Touch Panel air-conditioning and on the outiside, Daytime Running Lights, LED tail lights and 16-inch Dual Tone alloy wheels to complete the new Hybrid exterior package.

Safety systems provided include four airbags, ABS, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Reverse Camera and the Emergency Stop Signal (ESS). The new City Hybrid comes in Lunar Silver Metallic, Modern Steel Metallic and White Orchid colours.
Priced at
RM 89,200 excluding Insurance
, warranty for the new City Hybrid will be maintained at 5-years with unlimited mileage at 10,000 km service intervals while its Lithium-Ion batteries will be covered by an 8-year warranty. Test drives for the new City Hybrid will be available beginning mid-August 2017.
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The all-new Ford Ranger Raptor is here to tear up Malaysian tarmac and more – RM260k

It’s been a busy couple of months for
Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC)
. Following the launch of the
all-new Ford Ranger
and
Everest
, the company is now unveiling the Baja-inspired Ranger Raptor pick-up truck for Malaysian roads.
The all-new Ford Ranger Raptor is priced at RM259,888 in Malaysia, on the road, without insurance.
The highlight of the all-new Ford Ranger Raptor is its beating heart underneath the bonnet, as the souped-up truck has ditched diesel power for a raging 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine. Inherited from the Bronco Raptor, the new V6 EcoBoost mill pumps out
397 hp
 and
583 Nm
 of torque, along with a more sonorous noise that’ll make all car nuts drool.
Power is sent to all four wheels via a new full-time AWD system and a 10-speed automatic gearbox. And just as before, there’s also the Raptor-exclusive Baja drive mode, which now even comes with an active exhaust system selector – Baja, of course, being the loudest and naughtiest of them all – Ford even says that it sounds almost like a straight pipe set-up!
ALSO READ:
All-new Ford Ranger Raptor unveiled with 3.0L EcoBoost twin-turbo petrol V6
New to the Baja drive mode is also an anti-lag system for the turbochargers, which keeps the turbochargers spinning for up to three seconds after the driver lifts off the throttle, allowing for faster resumption of acceleration out of corners when the driver steps back on the accelerator.
Additionally, the engine is also programmed with an individual turbocharging boost profile for each of the transmissions’ 10 gears, which further optimises performance across the entire speed range. All in all, Ford says the all-new Ranger Raptor is “almost twice as fast as the first-generation”. And the good news is you only need regular RON95 petrol to exploit all of the performance.
Fox adaptive shocks are again standard here, featuring the brand’s latest 2.5-inch Live Valve dampers with Teflon-infused oil, tuned and developed by Ford Performance. The new dampers are paired to a toughened chassis, with additional structural reinforcements and beefier shock towers and brackets to handle the extra stress load while you jump over sand dunes.
Along with Fox’ signature Bottom-Out Control system, Ford says that the suspension set-up here is the most sophisticated ever to be fitted onto a Ranger, with all of its characteristics specifically fine-tuned to provide the “perfect balance” between on-road and off-road performance.
To go along with its performance capabilities, Ford has given the all-new Ranger Raptor an equally-fitting exterior, characterised by its flared wheel arches, unique separated bumpers both front and back, Ford Performance scuff plates, and its taller ride height.
Of course, there’s also the signature front grille with the ‘FORD’ lettering for added muscle, plus all the vents here on the bonnet and fenders are also actually functional!
In terms of equipment, you get the Matrix LED headlamps as standard, alongside the 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in BFGoodrich all-terrain KO2 tyres, and new cast aluminium side steps.
Inside, the cabin of the Raptor closely mirrors that of the all-new Ranger, but with some added flair to match its performance credentials. These include the “jet fighter-inspired sports leather seats”, with 10-way power adjustability for the driver, all-Ebony upholstery with Code Orange accents, leather sports steering wheel with cast magnesium gearshift paddles, as well as amber ambient lighting.
The 12.4-inch instrument cluster and the 12-inch portrait-oriented centre infotainment display are standard, the latter supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity and connected to an eight-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system. Other standard equipment also include the e-shifter wrapped in leather, wireless Qi charging pad, as well as a 360-degree surround view monitor.
RELATED:
All-new 2022 Ford Ranger launched in Malaysia – from RM109k
Safety wise, the all-new Ford Range Raptor in Malaysia is fitted with the marque’s latest suite of active driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control with stop-go functionality, lane centring, blind spot information system, evasive steer assist, reverse brake assist, high-beam assist, as well as rear cross-traffic alert.
The all-new Ford Ranger Raptor will be offered in five exterior colours, including Absolute Black, Arctic White, Blue Lightning, Conquer Grey, as well as the new signature Code Orange colour. Included in the price is a five-year/160,000 km manufacturer’s warranty, but customers can also opt for a two-year extended warranty with PremiumCare, offering a range of additional coverages.
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Video: Mercedes-AMG GLC63S 4MATIC, Things You Need To Know

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia presented a trio of Mercedes-AMG SUVs last night and between the two GLCs, this one somehow takes the cake, over the Coupe, for looking extremely striking. Here are the things you need to know about the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S 4 MATIC.
Maybe it’s the colour or the wheels but the GLC 63 S 4MATIC in the AMG Night package attire just looks demonic. For those who have thought that SUVs cannot be quick, ferocious and raunchy, this proves them all wrong.
The Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S 4MATIC is powered by a 4.0-litre bi-turbo V8 that’s good for
 510 hp
 and
750 Nm
. If ever taunted by a Ferrari or Porsche at a traffic stop, this will surprise them with a 3.8 second time from 0 to 100 km/h.
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2020 Land Rover Discovery Sport now in Malaysia with refreshed styling and new tech goodies!

Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia (JLR) today launched the new 2020
Land Rover Discovery Sport
. The updated Discovery Sport is available in Malaysia in a sole R-Dynamic variant, in either five (
RM379,800
) or five-plus-two (
RM409,800
) seating configuration.
Being a mid-cycle update, the all-new Discovery Sport retains a largely familiar design. On the exterior, the new 2020 Land Rover Discovery Sport receives a new headlights with twin U-shaped daytime-running lights that also functions as sequential turn signals, along with reprofiled front and rear bumpers.
The U-shaped light signature also makes it’s way to the rear combination taillights. An aggressive all-round body-coloured cladding complete the sportier exterior, as part of the R-Dynamic package.
Moving inside, the visual changes are more apparent, headlined by a cleaner and more modern dashboard design. Central to the dashboard now sits a
10-inch Touch Pro infotainment system
 with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The instrument cluster has also been replaced by a
12-inch Interactive Driver Display
.
The air-conditioning controls have been replaced by a touch-sensitive panel with two rotary dials for temperature adjustments, while a gear selector stalk replaces the rotary gear selector from the pre-facelift model.
Other standard equipment includes a second-generation coloured head-up display, as well as a wireless mobile charging pad located below the centre console.
However, the biggest change in the Discovery Sport lies underneath the largely evolutionary styling update. The 2020 Land Rover Discovery Sport now rides on the brand’s latest
Premium Transverse Architecture (PTA)
, which promises better ride comfort and allows for improved aerodynamics.
First seen on the
 all-new Range Rover Evoque
, the PTA platform is also designed around modern powertrains such as mild-hybrids and plug-in hybrids. However, the Malaysian-spec Discovery Sport will only be available with a two-litre turbocharged Ingenium engine, producing
200 hp
 and
 320 Nm
 of torque.
The turbocharged mill is paired to a
nine-speed ZF automatic gearbox
. Power is transferred to all four wheels via the updated
all-wheel drive
 system, featuring a new Driveline Disconnect function that can disconnect the power from the front axle to the rear wheels during cruising, reducing frictional losses and thus improving fuel efficiency. Land Rover claims that the AWD system can be reengaged in just 500 milliseconds.
The updated Discovery Sport also features the new Terrain Response 2 system with Auto mode, which can automatically adjust its torque delivery according to driving conditions, in addition to the standard Comfort, Sand, Grass-Gravel-Snow, and Mud & Ruts modes.
Safety wise, the new Discovery Sport features a host of advanced safety technologies, such as front and rear parking aid, High-speed Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist and Driver Condition Monitor, as well as the 360-degree Surround Camera with Wade Sensing features.
The new Discovery Sport also comes equipped with ClearSight Ground View, which provides the drivers a clear view underneath and around the vehicle. As standard, the 2020 Land Rover Discovery Sport comes with seven airbags.
All Land Rover vehicles purchased from JLR Malaysia and its authorised dealerships come with the ‘Land Rover Care’ programme, which includes a
five-year/150,000km warranty
,
 five-year/65,000km free service package
, and
three-year roadside assistance
.


This BMW M Bike Limited Carbon Edition is the stuff of every cyclists’ dream

Shortly after the global unveiling of the
F90 BMW M5
, BMW has unveiled a limited-edition BMW lifestyle bike to commemorate the launch of the new M5. Limited to 500 units worldwide, the BMW M Bike Limited Carbon Edition is the perfect bike to park alongside your M5.
Finished in exclusive Marina Bay Blue Metallic, the M Bike’s frame is made of hydro-formed aluminium and carbon mixture. The fork, seat posts and spacers are all of carbon material to ensure high agility and maximum performance on the go.

The carbon frame bike rides on
28-inch multi-spoke alloys
 wrapped in Continental CruiseContact tyres while stopping power comes from a pair of hydraulic BR-M315 disk brakes.
Each BMW M Bike Limited Carbon Edition has a “Limited Carbon Edition” badge as well as its own authentic certificate. Price? Only €1,400 (RM6,988).
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2016 Subaru WRX S4 tS is strictly for JDM, gets more power, but CVT only

If there’s one Japanese manufacturer that makes desirable special editions modes, it would be the
Subaru and their WRX
. For two decades, the super sedan that can easily pass off as an ordinary salaryman’s car has already had a few collectable editions such as the RB22 and STI Spec C. Now, there’s the Subaru WRX S4 tS.
The Subaru WRX S4 tS steals some components from the current creme of the crop WRX, the
S207
. This STI-prepped car receives the same Bilstein DampMatic II front suspension as the S207.
Power comes from the WRX-sourced
 2.0-liter flat four direct-injection turbocharged
 mill that liberates
 296 hp
 and
400 Nm
 of torque. The performance is bumped up by
28 hp
, courtesy of the modified air intakes and exhaust system. Sadly, there’s no stick shift for this variant, thus the
Lineartronic CVT
 is its only option. The improved oil cooler on the gearbox does somehow improve performance.
The exterior receives STI-designed BBS 19-inch forged aluminium wheels, red pinstripes on the front grille and rear bumper and a large front splitter. A luminescent speedometer greets the driver, and both the driver and front passenger get Recaro bucket seats.
Fans can also opt for the “
NBR Challenge Package
” WRX that adds 19-inch BBS wheels, a huge carbon-fibre rear wing and special badging. The car was created to commemorate Subaru’s success in the SP3T class in Nurburgring 24 Hours.
The Subaru WRX S4 tS begins at
4,968,000 yen
 (approximately
 RM199k
) while the one with NBR Challenge Package costs
5,292,000 yen
 (
RM212k
). Looking at the rate these special edition WRXs reach Malaysia through grey importers, expect to see a few units of the S4 tS go on sale here in the near future.
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Be prepared to pay a RM1,000 fine if caught violating MCO

Those caught flouting the Movement Control Order, which ends on the 14th of April pending an extension, will be slapped with a RM1,000 fine.
These fines will not be issued at the roadblocks itself but instead, offenders would be brought to the nearest police station where the fines would be issued.
Once issued, offenders will be given two weeks to settle their fines at any Health Ministry office. Failure to do so would see offenders being tried in court.
Unlike traffic fines where discounts are offered, there will be no such thing for these fines, in accordance with the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988.
In case you haven’t read, the authorities have also announced
five new road closures in the Petaling Jaya area beginning 12 am on the 10th of April 2020
. The road closures will take place around the Damansara Perdana and Mutiara Damansara neighbourhoods.
Image source:
Ministry of Home Affairs


Volkswagen to launch 4 new models in Malaysia on 12 August

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) will be launching
four new VW models
 this week, including what the company calls the “R-Line Trinity” comprising of the
Arteon R-Line
,
Passat R-Line
, and
Tiguan Allspace R-Line
, alongside the
Tiguan Allspace Highline
.
The models will be launched at the Volkswagen Tour event at One Utama Shopping Centre on the
12th to 16th August
, and will be on display throughout the event alongside other VPCM staples including the
 Passat Elegance
,
Golf R-Line
,
Tiguan Highline
, and
Vento Join
.
We’ve covered the
Passat and Arteon R-Line
 pretty in-depth previously, but here’s a brief recap: Both models will be powered by the new
2.0-litre TSI turbocharged engine
 introduced locally on the Passat Elegance, which is good for
190 hp
 and
320 Nm
 of torque. The powerplant will be paired to a new
seven-speed wet clutch DSG transmission
.
As for equipment list, expect both cars to feature similar if not identical items to the new Passat Elegance, which includes a 9.2-inch Discover Pro infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an 11.7-inch digital instrument cluster, three-zone automatic climate control, and 12-way power-adjustable leather front seats.
The interior equipment of the new Passat and Arteon R-Line will most likely be carried over from the
Passat Elegance
.
Being new R-Line models, most of the upgrades should be limited to just the exterior. Aside from the customary R-Line exterior trims – aggressively-styled front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and perhaps a small lip spoiler, we can also expect to see sized-up wheels, which means 19-inches in diametre or more.
As for the Volkswagen
 Tiguan Allspace
 which will be making its Malaysian debut in R-Line and Highline trims, the new seven-seater SUV will most likely carry over the 1.4TSI turbocharged from the current
Tiguan line-up
 in Malaysia, making
150 hp
 and
250 Nm
 of torque.
The engine will be paired to a six-speed wet clutch DSG gearbox for a zero-to-100 km/h time of
9.5 seconds
 and a top speed of
202 km/h.
Designed to slot in between the Tiguan and Touareg, Volkswagen has stretched the compact SUV by a total of
215 mm
, of which 109 mm is to the wheelbase itself. As a result, the Tiguan Allspace manages to squeeze in a third row of seats, and boast a rear cargo area of
1,775 litres
 with all rear seats folded down, or
230 litres
 with both rows of rear seats in its normal position.
The
Tiguan Allspace R-Line
.
As for equipment, expect both variants of the Tiguan Allspace to mirror what’s already on the current Tiguan – Active Info Display digital instrument cluster, fully-LED headlights and taillights, 8.0-inch Discover Media infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, tri-zone automatic climate control, and leather seats.
VPCM says that plenty of attractive offers will be available at the Volkswagen Tour, including an additional RM1,000 rebate on top of any other ongoing promotions for any customers who place a booking at the event.
Volkswagen Tour will take place at the Oval Centre Court (New Wing), and will be open from 10 am to 10 pm daily. Strict healthy and safety guidelines (mandatory temperature screening and use of facemask, regular disinfection of display vehicles) will be in place for the peace of mind of all visitors.


Kia shows off new design language by flaunting the EV6

Kia has just given us a first look at the
upcoming EV6
, the company’s first dedicated fully-electric model. Full details about the car won’t come until its launch later this month, but the Korean carmaker felt it was necessary to give the design some spotlight, as the EV6 will be headlining Kia’s new design language, which will be used on all future models.

The new look is called “Opposites United”, and is said to be inspired by “the contrasts found in nature and humanity”, utilising a combination of sharp stylistic elements and sculptural shapes. And as is usual in a design language launch, the photos were accompanied by a huge wall of text explaining the “philosophy” behind the new design.
Kia says the new look is based on five key design pillars: ‘Bold for Nature’, ‘Joy for Reason’, ‘Power to Progress’, ‘Technology for Life’, and ‘Tension for Serenity’. They did go into more details on what each of these catchphrases mean, but we really just wanted to look at the car.
Up front, Kia has redesigned their signature “Tiger Nose Grille” specifically for the electrified era, into what’s now called a “Digital Tiger Face”, formed by the unique headlights and daytime-running lights, joined together with a piece of slim grille-like plastic bit across the face.
Below that, a large lower air intake helps visually widen the front of the car, and also apparently “accentuating its high-tech image”. The air intake helps optimise air flow from the front, with air channelled through and under the car’s flat floor.
Just like the
Hyundai Ioniq 5
, which shares its underpinnings with this car, the EV6 also gets a crossover-inspired profile especially when seen from the side. But while the Hyundai gets a wilder character line on its side, the EV6 is relatively sleek and simple, with a single sharp character line contrasting the rounded body panels, or in Kia’s words, creating “a sense of tension”.
One of our favourite touches on the car are the two parallel lines that wraps around the bottom of the entire car, slowly curving upwards on the side skirts across the rear wheel arches to lead into the arched tail lights – perhaps the car’s most unique feature.
Inside, Kia promises more space for the passengers thanks to the new E-GMP platform. In terms of design, the interior of the EV6 gets a fairly clean and modern look, characterised by the large floating curved display panel, housing both the digital instrument cluster and infotainment display.
The company says that the “simple form language” of the wide curved screen and the slim dashboard gives the interior space an open feel, while the width of the screen creates an “immersive experience for the driver”.
Kia was particularly proud of the fact that they’ve jettisoned most of the physical buttons in favour of haptic touch-based ‘buttons’, as seen on the HVAC control panel underneath the central air vents, saying that it provides an “uncluttered and soothing driving experience”. We can’t say we feel the same; the ‘buttons’ will probably be hellish to use while driving.
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See how one lady brought the BMW Art Car #18 into virtual reality [+Video]

There is much to like about BMW Art cars. It’s a platform that gives some of the most creative minds to “paint” several BMW cars. Joining the ranks of legends such as Andy Warhol and Alexander Calder is the youngest ever participant that also happens to be a lady who hails from China.
Introducing
Cao Fei
with her latest creation,
BMW Art Car #18
, which employs digital creativity like no other. The 39 year old artist’s previous artwork blends physical and technology, focusing on the theme of surrealism.
It took her three years to turn the
BMW M6 GT3
 race car into a modern canvas on wheels. This project involves mild augmented reality, requiring an iOS application to experience the multicoloured visuals on the car.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ijFREPVtcm4
The BMW Art Car #18 was unveiled at the Minsheng Art Museum in Beijing and will be displayed at the BMW Experience Shanghai. Being a race car, it will also be driven by Augusto Farfus at the Macau street track during the FIA GT World Cup in November.
IMAGE GALLERY


Ford teases all-new Ford Focus, hints 6 model launches in first half of 2018

Over the Christmas holidays, Ford released a heavily camouflaged “medium-sized” car. The #TimeToFocus  hashtag was a dead giveaway of the next-generation Ford Focus.
Based on the single teaser image, we can tell that the fourth-gen Focus will feature more angular headlamps, new horizontal front grille and a sharper rear end design. Expect the new Focus to get the new cabin architecture with a floating infotainment as seen on the
new Fiesta
.
The 7th-generation Ford Fiesta’s interior
Besides the teaser image, the company also said that they will be introducing “six significant Ford products” in the
first half of 2018
. Among them include the new EcoSport, Transit Custom, Tourneo Custom,
443 hp
 Mustang, Fiesta Active crossover and
Fiesta ST
.


Honda City Hatchback: SUV-like practicality in a small car, thanks to ULTRA seats

When looking for a “one car to do it all’” we always end up shopping for an SUV or an MPV simply for their large cabins. But having a large car isn’t very convenient. Parking becomes a chore and driving through narrow urban streets becomes stressful. Thus, to combine ultimate practicality with nimble and easy maneuvering, the
Honda City Hatchback
 offers an interesting proposition with its brand-signature ULTRA seats.
The Honda City hatchback is a B-segment hatchback that costs
RM78,600
 for the base ‘S’ variant. In total, there are five variants of the City hatchback, and at the top of the range is the hybrid City Hatchback RS which costs
RM109,800
. The good thing is, all variants get the ULTRA seat configuration, which makes it an extremely practical car despite being a compact hatchback.
Seats down
Seats up
You may wonder what ULTRA seats are, and it is simply an abbreviation of ‘Utility’, ‘Long, ‘Tall’, and ‘Refresh’, with the letter A simply existing to give it a fancy moniker. The first four letters of the abbreviation are the four configurations of the rear seats that allow you to either haul varying types of loads or to simply rest inside the cabin.
Hatchbacks are generally already very practical with the rear seats folded down. The City Hatchback (as well as its predecessor, the

Jazz
) cranks it up a notch with the ULTRA seats.
RELATED:
Honda City Hatchback vs Toyota Yaris – Which is the better-looking hatch?
The ‘Utility’ configuration is just the same as what you would find in other hatchbacks where you fold down the rear backrests, turning your compact hatchback into a 2-seater ‘van’. This is ideal for the Ikea haul or helping a friend move. You could even stuff a bicycle inside with the ‘Utility’ configuration.
The ‘Long’ mode allows for long loads to take up the passenger side of the cabin, and this is also great for the occasional furniture haul, or as shown in the City Hatchback’s brochure, an entire surfboard.
The most unique configuration would be the ‘Tall’ mode, which allows for tall loads such as potted plants, a bedside bookshelf, and just about anything that has to be kept vertical.
The ‘Refresh’ is not for hauling stuff, but for you to relax in the cabin during a picnic by the beach or waterfall if that’s the kind of activity that you enjoy.
With the practicality that the ULTRA seats offer, the City Hatchback is suitable for those with a semi-active lifestyle and those who like to haul stuff on their own. And the practicality comes without the hassle of having to drive a large car through tight urban spaces.
ALSO WATCH:
Tackling the foreign Langkawi roads in a Honda City Hatchback!


Xtraordinary by Xalf – a bespoke footwear collection inspired by Bentley

Looking to explore beyond the norms of fashion,
 Xalf
turns to one of the most luxurious brands in the automotive industry as the inspiration for their latest collection. Presenting Xtraordinary, a bespoke footwear collection by Xalf with Bentley Motors.
Mention footwear made in Malaysia and you’d probably think of Bata (which by the way isn’t even really made in Malaysia) but mention locally made-to-order shoes and you’re bound to have heads turning – and Xalf looks to have that exact impact with their footwear.
The homegrown label pride themselves in creating bespoke footwear that are top notch in quality and design. Their aim, in essence, is to make you stand out from conventional mass-produced products hence the release of the
Xtraordinary collection
 in partnership with Bentley.
On the idea behind this interesting collaboration, Creative Director Alfred Hor credits the automaker’s classy aesthetics as a natural influence.
“Bentley’s eye for the finer details and its modern classic style is admired by millions of people around the world,” adds Xavier Mah, founder of the bespoke footwear label. “We too, are in awe of Bentley’s elegance and wanted to create bespoke shoes inspired by the iconic brand.”
Flawlessly handcrafted from calf leather by only the best local craftsmen, the Xtraordinary collection is designed with versatility in mind to bring you anywhere and everywhere in style – just like a Bentley. As such they’ve taken on the automaker’s contemporary classic silhouettes, resulting in two designs:
Xceptional For Him
Made from 100% calf leather, Xalf included a glossy finish on the mid section of the shoe along with a matte finish all around – drawing the eye to the classic shade with a variation in its texture.
The shoelace design seamlessly incorporates Bentley’s logo while luxurious gold pipings along the body of the shoe further elevates the design. This sleek pair of footwear is priced at
RM 4,500
, an exorbitant yet warranted price tag to stand out from the average dress shoes.
Xquisite For Her
As for the Xquisite pumps, it is reminiscent of Bentley’s signature back silhouette. We see again the use of 100% patent calf leather finishing and gold piping, but this time reinterpreted into a sporty yet sophisticated look befitting of modern women.
It’s easy to see these luxe-looking pair matching any attire from day to night and because it is made-to-measure, they’re sure to be the more comfortable pair in an elaborate shoe cabinet. We also like how Xalf included an Easter egg in this pair – with a subtle “B” lettering designed onto the back. Xquisite is priced at
RM 3,800
.
The capsule collection will be displayed in Bentley Kuala Lumpur’s showroom. Each design is limited to only
50 pairs
, exclusively made-to-measure.
IMAGE GALLERY


Lotus looks set to tap the crossover market, with productions outside of UK

As you have already learnt, the deal between DRB-Hicom and Geely saw the Chinese firm
takeover a sizable chunk of Proton
 along with a majority stake in Lotus.
This was subsequent followed with applause when Geely pledged to
fully realise the potential and brand appeal of Lotus car.
 That vision had now extended beyond just building a new generation of Lotus sportscars where production is
 set to remain in Norfolk, UK
 but also with the inclusion of a
Lotus crossover
.
For now, one can only imagine what the silhouette of a Lotus crossover could look like.
Those who’ve been keen followers of the Lotus brand can now start drooling in anticipation. Lotus looks set to plug the gaps and tap the niche within the ever-growing, lucrative SUV market, with the confidence that there is room for a light and aerodynamic crossover with handling competence.
With an impending approval from the Geely board on future plans which will be presented by Lotus CEO, Jean-Marc Gales, what seems firm at least for now is that production of other Lotus models could take place elsewhere.
Come 2021, Gales is expected to reveal a whole new set of next-generation Lotus sportscars which will include the introduction of a new Elise, Exige and Evora.
*Image is for illustration purposes only.
Cover Photo Credit:
Midlands Lotus Owners Club


Tesla towed away after driver was caught sleeping with car in Autopilot

A police officer in Wisconsin, USA was recently notified of a Tesla Model 3 cruising on the highway with what appears to be a sleeping driver.
It was doing
131 km/h
while the driver was allegedly sleeping behind the wheel, on his way to work.

After following it for over three kilometres, with sirens blaring, the driver nor the car responded. The driver only woke up and pulled over when both the patrol car and the Tesla was side by side.
The driver claimed to be awake but checks showed that it wasn’t the driver’s first encounter with authorities. The same car was reported twice before, after the driver was seen sleeping behind the wheel.

The driver was later fined USD 187 (approx RM774), not for speeding, but inattentive driving. As for his Model 3, it was towed as the police deemed the driver unfit to drive.

Recently, a 25 year old was arrested for the same reason following reports of a Model 3 cruising on a highway in California, with only one occupant; he was sitting in the backseat.
While in pursuit by the police, the occupant was seen climbing into the driver seat from the back. He too, had his Tesla towed away after the repeated idiotic stunt.


2023 Isuzu D-Max 1.9L Standard updated in Malaysia – reverse camera now standard, from RM106k

Following the
launch of the updated 2023 Isuzu D-Max
earlier this year, Isuzu Malaysia has now announced the refreshed 1.9L Standard variant, featuring a revised equipment list, and a slight RM1,500 price increase across the board.
The new 2023 Isuzu D-Max 1.9L Standard now starts at
RM105,599.20
 for the manual variant, while the automatic is priced at
RM112,999.20
. Both prices are on-the-road and without insurance.
Speaking of insurance, be sure to check out MotorTakaful.com by Etiqa when you’re renewing your car insurance to enjoy a 10% rebate, cashback, and many more goodies. Head on over to
MotorTakaful.com
to learn more.
Exterior design tweaks on the new 2023 models are minimal, with the press release only listing the new body-coloured door and tailgate handles, both of which were previously in silver. As part of the previous 2023 update, though, the grille garnish up front also now gets a two-tone look.
Otherwise, the rest of the exterior equipment list for the 1.9L Standard variants is completely unchanged, including the 17-inch alloy wheels, bulb combination tail lamps, and halogen fog lights. As before, the automatic 1.9L Standard variant is equipped with bi-LED projector headlights with LED daytime-running lights, but the manual model retains its halogen items.
Also unchanged is the 1.9-litre inline-four turbodiesel mill underneath the bonnet, with outputs of
150 hp
 and
350 Nm
 sent to all-four wheels via a six-speed automatic or manual transmission, as well as a Terrain Command shift-on-the-fly 4×4 system.
As part of the earlier 2023 update, the Isuzu D-Max 1.9L Standard variants are also now equipped with new electronic locking differential on the rear axle, as is standard on all four-wheel drive variants in Malaysia.
RELATED:
Isuzu D-Max updated for 2023 – refreshed looks and equipment kit, from RM95k
The highlight of the updated 2023 Isuzu D-Max 1.9L Standard is its improved safety, courtesy of the reversing camera that now comes as standard on both automatic and manual options. Image from the camera is displayed on a new 7-inch touchscreen head unit with USB and Bluetooth connectivity, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is only reserved for the higher-end variants.
With the new update, Isuzu Malaysia says that it’s now the first manufacturer in Malaysia to provide a reverse camera feature across its entire double-cab range.
Aside from the new head unit, the only other update to the interior of the new 2023 Isuzu D-Max 1.9L Standard variants are the new USB ports up front, including one USB Type A and one Type C port. The fabric upholstery, analogue e-Lumax instrument cluster, manual seat adjustments, and manual air-con all remain unchanged from before.
GALLERY


Throwback Thursday: First Generation Perodua Myvi – a true game changer

Welcome back to another installment of our throwback articles – after our previous article, have you scoured the classifieds for a used
Scirocco
 yet? In conjunction with the recent launch of the new
Perodua Myvi
, let’s take a look at the car that is undoubtedly the face of Malaysian mobility.
The term “game changer” has often been overused in the realm of automotive marketing, as for it to be so, it has to have a truly significant impact on our motoring landscape.
Up until mid-2005, Proton was the local numero-uno car brand despite utilising aged Mitsubishi-based models in the product line-up. At the time, the likes of Honda Jazz and Hyundai Getz were already whetting our appetites for B-segment hatchbacks with the visual and practical appeal.
The Daihatsu Boon/Sirion the Myvi was based upon
During the early noughties, Perodua finest engineers were invited to collaborate with Daihatsu and Toyota in Japan to develop a new model, signifying the trust of the Japanese carmakers on their Malaysian counterparts. The result of which led to the introduction of the Daihatsu Boon and Toyota Passo in 2004.
On the Malaysian end of the deal, May 2005 marked the pivoting point for Perodua and Malaysian car buyers – a moment in time that is certain to be remembered as one that changed the entire local automotive climate. Proton fired the first salvo with its Savvy hatchback that packed a hint of European flavour. Perodua followed suit with the
Myvi (My Vehicle My Vision)
 a few weeks after, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Topping out at
 RM 51,000
for the highest spec, the Myvi was relatively
safe, reliable, frugal
 and incredibly
spacious,
 all of which were major considerations of the budget-conscious buyer in the segment. In a few months, the Myvi was already laying the foundations for Perodua to become the
nation’s top-selling car
.
The facelifted model launched in 2008
The Myvi went on to capture the hearts and wallets of undergrads, boy racers, homemakers, young working adults, salesperson, doctors, teachers etc – it was a revered by all walks of life save for a certain TV personality from UK’s biggest motoring show. Not surprising then as it went on to hit the
millionth-production mark
 in just 12 years after the first unit left the factory floor.
Why was the Myvi such a runaway success? For starters, it was the first compact vehicle in Malaysia with Japanese underpinnings – it’s powered by a Toyota-sourced
1.0-litre
 or
 1.3-litre petrol engine
 that was reliable and frugal. Couple that with unparalleled
interior space
and it was a clear winner –  a no-brainer for prospective car buyers.
The rear seats can be 60:40 split folded or completely flat, a convenience never seen nor offered before in a locally-manufactured car. Its effortless ability to host three passengers comfortably in the back seat also put to shame cars of larger sizes (and stature).
In terms of safety, the Myvi was offered
 dual front airbags
,
ABS
, and
 EBD
 – although confined strictly for the range-topping model. Being a Perodua, the Myvi’s interior wasn’t exactly spartan either, it came with an
Optitron
 meter display – a feature that was only seen in premium Toyota models and Lexus then.
Perodua changed the game with a well-equipped, safe and reliable hatchback with the first 2 generations of Myvis. Today, the third-generation Myvi has upped the ante again with the inclusion of semi-autonomous safety system and new engines – has Perodua produced yet another game changer? You bet they did.
IMAGE GALLERY
Myvi 1.5 AV


Volvo teases all-electric EX90, calls roof LiDAR a 21st-century design icon

In a recent video,
Volvo
 has just teased the exterior design of the upcoming all-electric
Volvo EX90
. Set to debut on November 9, 2022, we can already see the key exterior features of Volvo’s first all-electric car that is built on a dedicated EV platform.
In the 4-minute video, we get a glimpse of several angles and features of the EX90, but let us first address the most prominent feature of them all – the roof-mounted LiDAR.
LiDAR integrated into the roofline
While aesthetically questionable, Volvo says that the decision to put the Lidar on the roof takes inspiration from nature where animals eyes are usually positioned high up, and not on their knees. It is obvious that in this design decision, form follows function.
LiDAR is a remote sensing system that uses a pulsed laser to precisely measure ranges and it can detect, for example, pedestrians up to 250 metres away. In pursuit of unsupervised autonomous driving, the roof-mounted Lidar which is standard on the Volvo EX90, is one of Volvo’s safety cornerstones. Volvo even sees its LiDAR technology as a 21st-century design icon, very much like its three-point safety seatbelt.
RELATED:
Upcoming Volvo EX90’s displays will magically show you the right information at the right tim
e
Volvo head of exterior design, T. Jon Mayer said, “It was a design challenge to integrate LiDAR in a way that both looks good and is optimal for its safety applications. It’s the car’s eyes, and while you could have them around the grille area – which would be equivalent to having eyes on your knees – it makes much more sense to have them as high as possible on your head so you can see as much as possible. That is why, together with our engineers, we decided to integrate it in the roofline to maximise its effectiveness.”
LiDAR aside, we also get to see the active vents on the lower grille, the flush door handles, the wheels with aero caps, a rear spoiler, and the Volvo Roundel on the enclosed front panel. All this contributes to a drag coefficient of 0.29 on the Volvo EX90, which Volvo says is very competitive for a large 7-seater SUV. Although futuristic, the EX90 still retains a side view mirror, albeit with a camera right beneath it.
RELATED:
Upcoming Volvo EX90 EV will come with LiDAR as standard, to be unveiled on 9 November
Unfortunately, Volvo has not given any glimpse of the interior in this recent video. Previously we have seen the dashboard and infotainment unit, but have not seen the full interior.
Commenting on the interior design, Mr. Mayer said “We’ve put a lot of effort into the illumination inside the EX90, trying to create a warm interior and a somewhat colder expression for the exterior. It’s also connected to how people in Scandinavia might be perceived. There’s a calm and understated confidence that can read as cold at first – but once you get to know people, you find that they’re really warm. That very same confidence is exactly what we’re trying to convey in the expression of our cars.”

GALLERY


Study confirms that buttons are indeed better than touchscreens in cars

It feels like almost every week, someone here at the
AutoBuzz
 office (mostly me) will
bemoan
 about how the
horrible
 touchscreens are taking over our cars, but we believe we have good reason. Touchscreens are good for smartphones, but when it comes to a moving car, the sleek slates of glass can make basic tasks – like adjusting your air-con settings – a potentially dangerous endeavour.
We know we’re
not alone in this
. BMW and Polestar designers have already hinted that the
age of the screen-city might soon be over
, and Alfa Romeo has also
 committed to keeping screens in their cars to a minimum
. But now, there’s finally a “scientific” study to confirm what we already know – touchscreens are harder to use than actual, physical buttons, thus making them more dangerous.
The study comes from Swedish car magazine
Vi Bilägare
, who gathered 11 different models ranging from a 17-year-old “old-school” Volvo V70 to the
all-new BMW iX
to study their human-machine interfaces (HMI).
Participants are asked to perform a set of simple tasks in all the cars, such as changing the radio station or adjusting the climate control, while driving at 110 km/h. The time taken and distance travelled for the drivers to complete the tasks in each car were then recorded and tabulated.
The publication also emphasised that the participants were also given time to get used to the systems in each of the cars to remove any variables stemming from unfamiliarity.
Oh, how we’ve missed you, good ol’ buttons. Photo:
Glenn Lindberg/Vi Bilägare
Unsurprisingly, the 17-year-old Volvo came in first in the tests, with participants requiring only 300 metres (roughly 10 seconds) on average to complete the tasks – more than a whole kilometre better than the worst performing car of the bunch: MG Marvel R (44.9 seconds).
Vi Bilägare
 notes that the BMW iX and Seat Leon performed decently in the tests, thanks to their mix of screens and buttons. However, the site argues that their systems are still too complicated, with both requiring roughly a kilometre to perform the tasks, and a lot can happen if you’re driving distracted over that distance in normal traffic.
RELATED:
Research says Android Auto and Apple CarPlay more dangerous than alcohol
Photo:
Glenn Lindberg/Vi Bilägare
Screens aren’t inherently bad, however, as proven by cars like the
Volvo C40
 (identical to the
XC40
 inside), which required only 417 metres to complete the tasks in the test. The publication says the result is due to Volvo’s relatively simple layout and lack of unnecessary features, making it easier for users to access mission-critical controls.
Buttons aren’t completely faultless, too;
Vi Bilägare
 noted that some of the buttons on the
 Volkswagen ID.4
 and Seat Leon came without backlighting, making it “completely invisible at night” and a nightmare to use. Still, with some muscle memory (and proper buttons, not the touch-sensitive ones, thank you), they should perform way better than having to look at a touchscreen while driving.
Buttons? They don’t exist here.
Now, we understand that some of these decisions are completely out of the engineers hands. Accountants may push for touchscreens instead of buttons as they’re cheaper to implement, while designers could argue that it’s part of the new modern aesthetics.
All we’re saying is, look – science is on our side. Just give us the physical climate control buttons and knobs back, and we promise we’ll stop writing these articles every couple of months.


Porsche did 300 km/h non-stop in the new 911 GT3 for 5,000 km, only stopping for fuel

Two months ago, Porsche revealed the new
911 GT3
 to the world but only now have they revealed the juicy secrets from behind that iconic shell.
Underneath that massive rear wing, which in itself is an engineering marvel, is a 4.0-litre naturally-aspirated engine with
510 hp
 and
 470 Nm
, and a 9,000 rpm redline!
What they did not reveal at launch was that the engine, which is based on the 911 GT3 R race car, had
undergone more than 22,000 hours of testing
, running full throttle for most of the time.
Porsche also revealed that the engine held up and performed flawlessly as it was
driven consistently at 300 km/h for 5,000 km continuously
 on an oval track in Italy. The car only stopped for fuel.
As for the swan-neck rear wing, its angle can be adjusted to four different positions, like the front diffuser. According to Porsche, it allows the new 911 GT3 to
generate 50% more downforce
than the previous model at 200 km/h.
In the most extreme setting, the rear wing can generate more than 150% extra downforce compared to its predecessor.
“We developed the aerodynamics of the new 911 GT3 in around 700 simulations. We spent more than 160 hours fine-tuning the car in the wind tunnel,” explains Porsche aerodynamics engineer, Mathias Roll.
Find out more about the 911 GT3 in detail
here
!
GALLERY


Bentley launches the Flying Spur Hybrid in style with limited-run Odyssean Edition

To celebrate the launch of its newest model, the
Flying Spur Hybrid
, Bentley has unveiled a new limited-run launch variant, called the Odyssean Edition, that’s supposed to offer a glimpse into the brand’s future.
Taking inspiration from the
EXP 100 GT concept
, the new Odyssean Edition will highlight the use of sustainable materials in its interior, which will become a big part of the brand’s Beyond 100 electrification strategy moving forward.
These materials include the new tweed panels that are made from 100% British wool, which helps break up the acres of leather usually found on the inside of a luxury car like a
Bentley Flying Spur
. As an option, customers can also upgrade the deep pile mats to lambswool rugs.
That’s not to say that there’s no leather here, though, because there is, and a whole lot of it. But the hide used for the cabin, called Autumn, was selected specifically for its sustainability and long-term durability.
All new Bentley models will be fully-electric from 2030 onwards. Read more about the brand’s Beyond 100 plan here.
The company also recently joined the Leather Working Group, a trade body that sets standards for the ethical use of the material. Bentley sources its leather from a single supplier in Italy, and uses advanced laser cutting tools to maximise the utilisation of each hide, while any leftover scraps are sent for use elsewhere.
As for the leather in the Odyssean Edition itself, it gets the usual “lofted diamond” pattern that’s unique to the Bentley Flying Spur, but with a unique embroidery style which blends the thread colours into a gradient across the width of each seat, as a nod to the ombré finishes seen in the interior of the EXP 100 GT.
The dashboard is covered in what Bentley calls the open pore Koa veneer, which uses 90% less lacquer than the other high-gloss veneers. Using just three ultra-thin layers of lacquer, which totals to only 0.1 mm in thickness, Bentley says that this allows customers to enjoy the “natural surface texture and aesthetic of the wood”.
The centre console, meanwhile, gets a more “regular” black Piano Linen veneer, to offset and balance the three-colour leather scheme in the rest of the cabin.
Check out the insane attention to detail in the interior of the Bentley Flying Spur, now available in Malaysia!
While the highlight of the Odyssean Edition Flying Spur Hybrid is obviously inside the cabin, Bentley has also given the limited-run model a few unique touches on the exterior. Most noticeably, it’s littered with a new Pale Brodgar accent colour that can be found on the 21-inch wheels, bumpers, and the lower character line trim element that wraps around the rear of the car.
Bentley has selected a palette of six recommended colours to match the trim and interior colour scheme, but of course, customers can still choose any colour that they like from the thousands on offer from the firm.
The Flying Spur Hybrid Odyssean Edition is also fitted with Bentley’s Touring Specification, which comes with the retractable illuminated ‘Flying B’ bonnet mascot, LED puddle lights, and the rotating centre console display on the inside.
Tying up the aesthetic makeover on the special edition are the bespoke Odyssean Edition door sill plates – the design of which is mirrored onto the exterior badgings on the D-pillars.
The world’s largest carbon fibre wheel is made by Bentley for the Bentayga. Check out the 22-inch madness here!
Powering the Odyssean Edition is the standard powertrain from the new Flying Spur Hybrid, which features a 2.9-litre twin-turbocharged V6 mated to an 136 hp electric motor.
In total, the system makes
544 hp
and
750 Nm
, which translates to a 0-100 km/h time of
4.3 seconds
,
a top speed of
285 km/h, and a total driving range of over 700 km with a single tank of fuel and a fully-charged battery.
Bentley did not reveal the price of this special edition Flying Spur Hybrid model, though it’ll be limited to about 300 units only.
GALLERY


Gallery: 2021 Volkswagen Arteon R-Line – Beauty and the beast

The
Volkswagen Arteon
 is – in our opinion – a ridiculously good-looking car. The sleek silhouette, sharp lighting elements, it all adds up to a sleek fastback that’s hard not to like. When the model
first made its debut here in Malaysia
, though, it was somewhat handicapped with a pretty lacklustre powertrain, leading many to dub it “all show, and no go”.
Well, not any more –
Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM)
 has now right that wrong just one year later with the 2021
VW Arteon facelift
 model, pairing the iconic good looks with a powertrain that has a lot more bite.
A lot more, as in 90 hp more. The new Volkswagen Arteon in Malaysia now features a new 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four engine, churning out
280 hp
 and
350 Nm
 of torque, compared to the “measly” 190 hp/320 Nm 2.0-litre four-banger of yore. Paired that to a seven-speed dual-clutch DSG transmission, and you get a 0-100 km/h sprint time of just
5.6 seconds
.
Check out the new 2021 Volkswagen Arteon in more detail here!
But it’s not just a boost in power, too – the facelift model also now gets the 4Motion all-wheel drive system to help translate all the power from the engine into the tarmac. The AWD driveline also comes with the XDS electronic differential lock to help improve traction during hard cornering.
For good measure, VPCM also thrown in the adaptive dampers on the 2021 Volkswagen Arteon, which provides up to 15 degrees of adjustability in the Dynamic Chassis Control system ranging from comfort to sporty, letting you tune the car’s response to just how you like to drive.
As for looks, the 2021 Volkswagen Arteon is relatively tame for a “facelift” – especially considering what
Mercedes-Benz does with their mid-cycle updates
. Updates to the exterior of the new VW Arteon facelift pretty much only includes the new light bar across the front grille, and a reworked 3D light signature on the tail lights – but why fix something that’s not broken, right?
As before, the Malaysian model comes equipped with the R-Line exterior package, consisting of the more aggresively-styled front and rear bumpers, a bootlip spoiler at the back, plus the 19-inch “Montevideo” alloys on all four corners. Oh, and it’s also the first model in Malaysia to sport the
new Volkswagen and ‘R’ logos
.
Inside, the 2021 Volkswagen Arteon R-Line gets a new R-Line flat-bottomed steering wheel with the fancy haptic touch control buttons, and the dashboard trims have been reworked for a sportier look, instead of the old one that was just lifted directly from the Passat.
There’s also a new pair of ErgoComfort seats up frontwith a sportier design, now featuring an integrated headrest, It’s wrapped in a”carbon-style” Nappa leather upholstery, and as is customary, features the new ‘R’ logo on the seat backs.
Other new additions in the cabin include the 30-colour ambient lighting system, alongside a new 12-speaker 700W Harman Kardon sound system (replacing the Dynaudio set), but the rest of the interior appointments are otherwise unchanged from the pre-facelift model.
The new 2021 Volkswagen Arteon R-Line 4Motion is priced at
RM247,671
 on the road, without insurance, but inclusive of the sales tax exemptions that are valid until the end of the year. Also included in the price is a five-year unlimited mileage warranty, three-year scheduled service programme, and five-year roadside assistance package.
For the full rundown of the specifications and equipments of the new Volkswagen Arteon, be sure to check out our
 Facts & Figures coverage
of the model launch here in Malaysia. Otherwise, feast your eyes on the blue beauty below.
GALLERY


Video: Porsche 911 (992) Carrera S & Carrera 4S First Drive in Auckland, New Zealand

Before Porsche Malaysia
 officially launched the new 992 generation 911 locally
, they were kind enough to send us to Auckland, New Zealand to have an early taste of their latest Michelin-star dish.
As the title suggests, we got to try out two different models – Carrera S and Carrera 4S – which although look nearly identical, are completely different sportscars in their own right.

We drove through rainbows, scenic B-roads, through rain and shine and although we didn’t have much leeway to stretch their legs, the new 992 hinted plenty enough to indicate that Porsche has once again broke new barriers with the new sportscar.
Lethal performance, even better looks, more tech and unquestionable practicality for all-season use are the least to expect in the latest rendition of the 911 – an undying formula spanning more than 50 years.

The latest jewel in Porsche’s 911 crown goes for RM1.15 million for the Carrera S and RM1.22 million for the Carrera 4S.
Revised turbocharger flow, relocated intercoolers, mixed sized wheels, active flaps, new tail light fixture, wider active spoiler and a Wet Mode are among the revisions made to the new 911.


Audi RS models may be electrified and rear-wheel driven in the future

For the longest time, Audi RS models have all come fitted with quattro all-wheel drive, albeit considerably rear biased (30 percent front, 70 percent rear). But according to CEO of Audi Sport, Stephan Winklemann, future RS cars may be rear-wheel driven and hybridised!
The aim is to bring a more involving drive that would rival some of the most focussed cars from BMW M and Mercedes-AMG. Perhaps we can even expect a dual-variant assault – one RWD, one with quattro. All said, quattro will still remain as the dominant drivetrain for many Audi models.

Winklemann went on to say “Our cars will remain distinguished, but never pimped. We’ll always offer high performance, but at the same time our cars must be comfortable – and give you a feeling that you are better than you expect.”
Audi will go on to reveal two new RS models at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show in September, but it’s unclear at this time whether the duo will be electrified or not.


800 hp Mercedes-AMG GT hybrid teased – to be unveiled at IAA Munich

It’s just under two weeks to go until the commencement of one of Europe’s largest international motor show events, the IAA which will be held in Munich. While many automakers are showcasing
clean mobility
 and technologies to significantly lower carbon emissions, Mercedes-AMG has
teased
 its latest model ahead of the motor show.
Unofficially called the Mercedes-AMG GT 73e, this four-door coupe utilises hybrid technology from its all-conquering Formula 1 campaign to boost powertrain output to
over 800 hp
, 160 hp more than the outgoing GT 63 S. The concept vehicle was
first revealed
, albeit with a new Mercedes-AMG camouflage livery, in March, and the vehicle in the teaser image seems to have maintained the front fascia of the ‘concept’ car.
Mercedes-AMG will also use this model to launch their new AMG E-Performance badge, which uses high (and new technology) electrifications for increased driving performance and pleasure. At a
technical presentation
 in March, the 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine is paired with a new motorised rear-axle and an AMG High Performance battery pack.
The complex rear Electric Drive Unit (EDU) integrates an electrically shifting two-speed transmission, motor and an electronic rear axle differential lock into a relatively compact casing with the AMG battery positioned above. It has plug-in capabilities as well, with a 3.7 kW on-board charger.
Both BMW M and Audi RS have no answer to this new hybrid technology, with Porsche Panamera being its closest rival. In the
Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid
, the total system output is 700 hp from an electrified 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine.
A hypercar with just a tiny 1.6-litre engine, expected to have over 1,000 hp and very active aerodynamic for competition car-like cornering performance. More about the Project One here.
The outgoing Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S 4Matic+ had
639 hp
 and
900 Nm
 of torque without any electric assistance. It also holds the lap record for the
fastest executive car
 at the Nurburgring.
Apart from the unveiling of this 800 hp Mercedes-AMG GT 4-door, Mercedes-Benz is also reported to be presenting the fully electric AMG
EQS
 plus the new

Mercedes-Benz EQE
, the latest member to the fully electric EQ brand.
Mercedes-AMG is also expected to release the C 63 variant of
new C-Class
 range with a heavily electrified 2.0-litre turbocharged engine with a combined system output of approx 600 hp, surpassing current V8 engines.
The Brabus Rocket 900 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S is aptly named as such. 900 hp! It has a great wide bodykit too! More about the rocket here!
The IAA Munich Mobility is scheduled to be held from September 7th to 12th with a larger focus on mobility and connected technologies that meet the new lifestyle requirements rather than static concept car displays. Visitors will also get to test drive or sit in new zero emission vehicles such as the
hydrogen-powered electric BMW X5
.
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Hyundai Ioniq hybrid previewed in Malaysia, but may not hit showrooms

The Toyota Prius rivalling
Hyundai Ioniq
 has just made a surprise debut at the 2016 My Auto Fest held at the Mines International Exhibition and Convention Centre (MIECC). Globally, the Ioniq is available in three variants – Hybrid, Electric and Plug-in Hybrid. The one on display here is the Hybrid variant.
The Ioniq is the world’s first green car with
three energy-efficient powertrains,
 powered by a single
 1.6-litre four cylinder Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) Kappa
engine coupled with an electric motor. The total output from the Ioniq is rated to be around 145 hp with 211 Nm of torque. Power is sent to the front axle, with a six-speed dual clutch gearbox tasked for quick and efficient gear changes.

Again, the display unit at MIECC is clearly the hybrid model, packing a
56 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery
 located underneath the rear bench. The positioning of this battery improve the car’s weight distribution, and together with the rear multilink suspension, Hyundai is confident that the Ioniq will be a hybrid car that’s as fun to drive as it is frugal.
Judging from our first impressions, the Ioniq looks a lot more presentable and striking compared to the controversial looking
fourth generation Prius
. Despite being a hatchback, boot space is cavernous with 443 litres which should meet any typical Malaysian’s needs.
So, will Hyundai Sime Darby Malaysia (HSDM) be introducing the Ioniq sometime in the future? Well, apparently not. A source within HSDM revealed that the Ioniq will be a challenging product to launch here due to tax and pricing issues, plus the fact that unless the Ioniq is locally assembled, it will never benefit from the EEV incentives. Toyota has also stopped selling the Prius and Prius C because of this.
IMAGE GALLERY


McLaren 765 LT Spider debuts – 0 to 100 km/h in 2.8 seconds!

Complementing the 765 LT “Longtail” coupe revealed last year, McLaren has followed up with the new 765 LT Spider. Just 765 units will be available for sale.
With the one-piece carbon fibre retractable hardtop, that opens in just 11 seconds at speeds of up to 50 km/h
just like the 720S
, McLaren says it only adds 49 kg to the 765 LT’s overall weight of just 1,388 kg. That’s about the weight of a Volkswagen Golf GTI.
Despite being a convertible, the strength and stiffness of the body means no additional strengthening was needed, which would add more weight. Carbon fibre structural supports are bonded into the chassis for rollover protection.
The roof mechanism of the 765LT Spider is among the world’s quickest and quietest. It’s twice as quiet as the roof of the 675LT Spider, the first convertible LT supercar.
Under the hood, the 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 sings through quad-exit titanium exhausts. It makes 765 hp, hence the name and 800 Nm which allows for a 0 to 100 km/h time of just 2.8 seconds! Top speed of the 765 LT Spider is 330 km/h.
Generous use of lightweight materials is the main reason for the 765 LT Spider’s performance. Exterior bits such as the front splitter, front bumper, side skirts, rear bumper, rear wing are all made of carbon fibre and is unique to the 765 model. Wheels are made of ultra-lightweight forged alloy while the wheel bolt are made of titanium. You get the idea, don’t you?
The meticulous weight-saving measures continue inside. The carbon fibre-shelled seats are 18 kg lighter than the ones in the 720S while the Alcantara upholstery used on the steering wheel and dashboard is also of a lightweight kind.
Carbon fibre is also used on the interior floor and centre tunnel of cabin. If more lightness is required, one can also request for the air-con to be removed, along with the audio system and floor carpets – to save up to 15 kg of weight. One can even opt for the same carbon fibre race seats first used in the McLaren Senna, weighing just 3.5 kg!
The doors of the Spider differ from those of the coupe. They have no upper carbon fibre frame and are physically smaller and lighter. They require only a single hinge (compared to the coupe’s double hinge fitment). When opened, the Spider’s doors extend further than the coupe’s by 120 mm each side – the only difference in dimensions between the two models.
The interior differences between coupe and Spider are minimal as well. The 765 LT Spider features an extra element of carbon fibre upper trim which ‘flows’ from interior to exterior.
There are two McLaren Special Operation (MSO) packages available for the 765LT Spider – the Clubsport Pack and the LT Black Pack. The MSO Clubsport pack both reduces overall weight and increases circuit performance with lightweight options and performance upgrades. These include McLaren Track Telemetry with three cameras, carbon fibre racing seats and brake upgrades featuring carbon ceramic brake discs and bespoke brake pads from the McLaren Senna.
Meanwhile, the MSO LT Black Pack gives the 765LT Spider an even more stealth look, with external components such as the front splitter, rear bumper and diffuser and air intakes finished in gloss black.
GALLERY


Newly-surfaced images reveal Mazda’s serious work on proposed RX coupe

The
Mazda RX-Vision
 was first showcased at the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show and it has always been the ultimate expression of their “KODO: Soul of Motion” design philosophy that shaped the new generation of vehicles such as the Mazda 3, Mazda CX-30 and the Mazda CX-5.
Many of us enthusiasts always hoped that Mazda, a brand so synonymous with driving experience and vehicle dynamics, would turn the RX-Vision concept into the RX-9 coupe- a modern-day revival of the famed Mazda RX-7.
Mazda only updated the RX-Vision concept in the virtual world, where the company teamed up with Polyphony Digital to create the RX-Vision GT3 concept to celebrate
Mazda’s 100th Anniversary
 last year. There was not much excitement as it is a racing version of the RX-Vision and the game is filled with plenty of one-off racing concept cars.
Feel more ‘Jinba Ittai’ connection just by wear this item. Find out more here!
A few days ago, patent filings by Mazda showed detailed structural designs of a vehicle. Out of 14 images, only one had an exterior body to it and it immediately excited us all. The rear shape of the two-door coupe bears striking resemblance to the 2015 Mazda RX-Vision! We wonder if the latest
‘R’ logo trademark
 by Mazda has any connection to this product?
The patents talk about the structural design of space frame using extruded aluminium alloy to form a chassis. Detailed drawings focused on the side sill members (where rigidity is a main concern for coupe bodies) as well as the rear axle area.
The area where the rear axle is usually housed (drive shafts, differential, suspension arm pick-up points) look very different to a standard rear-wheel-drive chassis with a sub-frame. It seems that Mazda is patenting a design to incorporate the rear suspension and transmit loading and high amounts of stress to the side sills and pillars!
New generation Mazdas to built on rear-wheel drive platform with straight-six engines! More about their strategy here.
It is certainly refreshing to see a premium-looking front-engine-rear-drive chassis after countless uniform-looking
modular architectures
 for electric vehicles with just a large battery in the middle.
There is certainly no confirmation if this patent filing will turn into reality, but it sure is nice to know that Mazda is making serious progress in developing a new sports coupe. Expect premium pricing too with such technology that even BMW and
Mercedes-Benz
 does not employ in their hardcore compact coupes.
Source:
Jalopnik.com


2016 Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport S gets 306 hp, quicker than Golf R!

Just last year, the
Volkswagen GTI Clubsport
 was deemed to be the sportiest GTI ever. Now they have made it even better, resulting an additional letter at the end of its name. The 306 hp Volkswagen GTI Clubsport S is not only the most powerful GTI in history, it even eclipses the Golf R’s horse count. Yikes.
It’s no secret that the
Clubsport S
 was created with “the Green Hell” in mind, because the
Nürburgring Nordschleife record for the front-wheel drive production car
 does not get broken by accident. In the hands of racing driver Benny Leuchter, the Clubsport S crosses the line in
7 minutes 49.21 seconds
. For comparison, the
previous record
 was held by the
Honda Civic Type R
 in
7 minutes 50.63 seconds
.

It looks just like the Golf GTI Clubsport we
saw last year
 (bespoke front bumper, bi-level rear roof spoiler, subtle skirts all-round) except that the side panel now says “Clubsport S”. It’s also fitted with a set of
19-inch “Pretoria” alloys
 and the tailpipes are a tiny bit bigger in diameter.
Under the bonnet lies the same
2.0-litre 4-cylinder TSI EA888
 unit, but it has been given a
new ECU
 and fitted with a
new exhaust system
. So the performance figures now reads
306 hp
,
380 Nm
,
5.8 seconds to 100 km/h
, and
265 km/h maximum speed
. And the driver have to work himself out with the
six-speed manual transmission
 to get the front wheels spinning. No DSG nonsense here.
While there’s the usual Comfort, Normal, and Race driving profile, there’s a dedicated
Nürburgring setting
 in the Individual driving profile that the engineers claim to suit the Green Hell’s conditions. Revisions to both front and rear axle geometry help kill understeer, and more grip is provided by the
Michelin Sport Cup 2
 semi slicks fitted as standard.
A further
30kg have been
 shed from the GTI Clubsport S – anything unnecessary has been thrown out of the window to keep the weight as low as possible. Who needs the rear parcel shelf and the rear seats anyway? Although, the interior is still equipped with a pair of lovely
bucket seats
 and
Alcantara wrapped
 golf ball gearknob and sports steering wheel.
Lovely isn’t it? Well here comes the bad news. There will only be
400
 copies of the GTI Clubsport S worldwide so you have to pray hard for this two-seater special to make it here in Malaysia.
IMAGE GALLERY


Non-subsidised petrol stations open in Perlis – RM3.22/litre RON 95 for foreign vehicles

Minister of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN), Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub, yesterday officiated the launch of a pilot project to supply unsubsidised RON 95 and diesel fuels for foreign vehicles. The first non-subsidised petrol stations, dubbed Double, are now open at Padang Besar and Wang Kelian, Perlis.
The pilot project will be carried out in Perlis for three months from February to April 2023 in order to evaluate the effectiveness of the programme. Following the pilot project, the ministry plans to expand the non-subsidised petrol stations to other border states, including Kedah, Perak, Kelantan, Johor, Sabah, and Sarawak.
Image: Salahuddin Ayub/Facebook
The project is an effort by the ministry to tackle subsidy leakage, as the subsidised RON 95 was only meant for Malaysian citizens. Under the Control of Supplies Act 1961, the sale of the RON 95 petrol to foreigners is a punishable act under Malaysian law, with a maximum fine of RM1 million and three years in jail.
Recently, photos of foreign vehicles filling up with the yellow-nozzled RON 95 petrol have been making rounds around the internet, prompting the government to step up enforcement of the sale of subsidised fuel to foreigners, alongside a proposal for a switch to targeted fuel subsidy for Malaysians based on household income.
RELATED:
Foreign vehicles refuelling with RON95 should be reported
Image: Salahuddin Ayub/Facebook
At the time of writing, the unsubsidised RON 95 petrol is priced at RM3.22 per litre, or 57% higher than the subsidised pricing. For comparison, the non-subsidised RON 97 petrol that is available at regular fuel stations is priced at RM3.35 per litre. Similarly, pricing for the non-subsidised RON 95 petrol will also be floated according to market rates.
As for Euro 5 diesel, the non-subsidised pricing is currently set at RM3.45 per litre at the time of writing. Prior to the new stations, foreign vehicles fuelling up within 25 km of the nations’ borders are only allowed to purchase up to 20 litres of diesel, as the fuel is subsidised to a ceiling price of RM2.15 and RM2.35 respectively for the Euro 5 B10 and Euro 5 B7 formulations.
Through the implementation of the pilot project, a new Supply Controller Directive was issued for petrol station in Perlis, which bans the sale of diesel fuel to foreign registered vehicles starting February 1, 2023. Foreign diesel vehicles in Perlis will now have to visit the non-subsidised stations in order to fuel up.


Is the all-new Toyota Corolla sedan sexier than the Honda Civic?

Toyota has pulled off the wraps of the 12
th
 generation Toyota Corolla sedan at the 2018 Guangzhou International Automobile Exhibition. Like the
new Camry
, the sporty looking Corolla is promised to deliver a fun driving experience thanks to the utilisation of the TNGA platform.
Based on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) GA-C platform, the new Corolla has slightly tweaked dimensions, now measuring 4,640 mm in length, 1,780 mm in width, 1,435 mm in height with the same wheelbase of 2,700 mm as the outgoing model. Compared to the old car, the new sedan is 10 mm longer, 5 mm wider and 45 mm lower than before.

The exterior of the new Corolla adopts a “Shooting Robust” design concept that gives the car an active and sporty silhouette by giving it a lower centre of gravity and lower stance. As for visual cues, the Corolla sedan is identical to its
hatchback twin
 at the front with slim headlamps and wide front apertures.
Over to the back, is where the Corolla flaunts its unique design with a raised boot lid, sculptured bumpers and droopy taillamp design. However, the rear profile doesn’t quite add up to the front’s athletic stance. Perhaps it will grow on us with time.
Toyota’s Sensuous Minimalism cabin design concept is apparent in the new Corolla, with clean lines forming the dashboard. An LCD instrument cluster and floating infotainment screen helps to keep the dashboard relatively clutter free with the climate controls neatly arranged in a single strip.
Powertrain options have not been disclosed by the company, but the new powertrains developed under the TNGA initiative such as 2.0-liter Dynamic Force Engine, Direct Shift-CVT and 6-speed manual transmission will be available for selected regions. Toyota Safety Sense Advanced Driver Assistance Systems will also be available in the new Corolla.

Chief Engineer for the new Toyota Corolla, Yoshiki Konishi said: “We have striven to design new models that are eye-catching, and fun to both ride in and drive. By enhancing not just the fun factors that are unique to cars, but “connectivity” functions to create new value, I wanted to make this new model a car that enriches mobility for customers around the world.”
IMAGE GALLERY
All-new Toyota Corolla Sedan – China Domestic Model

Toyota Corolla Levin for China Domestic Model


Facts & Figures: All-new Hyundai Elantra now launched in Malaysia – RM159k!

Hyundai Sime Darby Malaysia has unveiled the
all-new Hyundai Elantra
 here in Malaysia. Available in only a single variant, the Hyundai Elantra is priced at
RM158,888
 on the road without insurance, and inclusive of the
sales tax exemptions
.

EXTERIOR
The all-new Elantra is the second model in the Hyundai stable after the Sonata to carry the ‘Sensuous Sportiness’ design philosophy, which is characterised by its sloping coupe-like roofline and the lower overall ride height.
In terms of dimensions, the seventh-generation Hyundai Elantra is now 25 mm wider, 56 mm longer, and 20 mm lower than its outgoing model, measuring in at 4,675 mm long, 1,825 mm wide and 1,430 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2,720 mm.
Specific to this model is also the “parametric jewel” motif, which utilises sharp lines and geometric shapes in its styling. The motif is most evident in the large “cascading grille” with integrated turn signal indicators, functional air curtain inlets on the front bumper, Z-shaped character lines on the side, and the aggressive integrated rear spoiler.
Other exterior highlights include:
Full automatic LED headlights with LED daytime-running lights
LED tail lights (H-shaped design)
Dual-tone 17-inch alloy wheels, 225/45 profile Kumho Ecsta PS71
Smart Trunk automatic boot opening feature
Four exterior colours: Polar White, Electric Shadow, Amazon Grey, Intense Blue
PERFORMANCE
The all-new Hyundai Elantra is offered in Malaysia in only one single variant at launch, powered by the SmartStream G1.6 MPI naturally-aspirated engine.
Engine: 1.6-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine
Transmission: Hyundai Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT)
Drivetrain: Front engine, front-wheel drive (FF)
Max horsepower: 123 hp @ 6,300 rpm
Max torque: 154 Nm @ 4,500 rpm
0-100 km/h: 10.4 seconds
Top speed: 196 km/h
rated fuel consumption: 5.6 l/100km
The new Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) gearbox is essentially a CVT with eight virtual gear, but instead of a regular push belt, it is driven by a chain belt paired to a tensioner mechanism. Hyundai says that the new IVT gearbox not only improves responses and “reproduces the manual transmission’s shifting pattern”, but also reduces engine power loss by 5-8%, at the same time improving fuel economy by 4.2%.
INTERIOR
The cabin of the seventh-generation Hyundai Elantra adopts an “immersive cocoon” design, which sees all the control surfaces tilted slightly towards the driver, surrounded by a wrap-around trim piece to emulate a fighter-jet cockpit. To emphasise the width of the car, Hyundai also used a low, wide structure that runs from door to door, integrating the air vents neatly into the trim element itself.
Due to the fastback styling on the all-new Elantra, the entire cabin compartment has been shifted rearward by 50 mm, starting from the front cowl. However, Hyundai says that the cabin space has not been impacted, but rather increased due to the increased overall dimensions of the vehicle. Rear legroom have been expanded by 58 mm, while boot space is also larger than before, now rated at over 470 litres.
768768
The interior upholstery of the all-new Elantra can be specified in either black (natural leather and Tricot) or a two-tone light-grey scheme (white natural leather and woven fabric).
Interior highlights of the all-new Hyundai Elantra include:
10.25-inch Supervision TFT digital instrument cluster
8-inch Infotainment Display
Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
Bluetooth multi-connection
Dual-zone automatic climate control with rear vents
Ventilated, heated front seats, Smart Temperature Comfort Control
8-way power adjustable driver seat with 2-way lumbar support
Heated steering wheel
Wireless smartphone charger
Electronic parking brake with auto-hold
Variable cup holders
SAFETY
The all-new Hyundai Elantra in Malaysia is equipped with the brand’s latest SmartSense advance driver assistance suite, which includes the following features:
Forward Collision Avoidance Assist (FCA) – Vehicle, Pedestrian, Cyclist
Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Junction (FCA-JT)
Blind-spot Collision Avoidance Assist (BCA)
Rear Cross Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA)
Safe Exit Warning (SEW)
Driver Attention Warning (DAW) with Leading Vehicle Departure Alert (LVDA)
Lane Keep Assist (LKA)
Lane Following Assist (LFA)
Smart Cruise Control (SCC) with stop and go function
Rear Occupant Alert
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
Other safety features include six airbags as standard (driver, front passenger, side, and curtains), ABS with brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, electronic stability control, vehicle stability management, traction control, and hill-start assist, and two Isofix mounts on the rear seats.
PRICING
As mentioned above, the all-new Hyundai Elantra is priced at
RM158,888
 on the road, without insurance, and inclusive of the sales tax exemptions. Included in the price is also a 5-year/300,000 km warranty, and a 3-year/50,000 km free service maintenance programme.
The all-new Hyundai Elantra is now available for viewing at all Hyundai dealerships nationwide.
GALLERY


Ferrari 488 Pista revealed ahead of Geneva, 3.9L V8 with 720hp & 770Nm!

To nobody’s surprise, Ferrari has unveiled a track-focused version of the
488 GTB
. Introducing the Ferrari 488 Pista, which translates directly to track in Italian, the successor to the 360 Challenge Stradale, 430 Scuderia and 458 Speciale.
Underneath the hood, the 3.9-litre twin-turbo V8 is massaged to kick out
720 hp
 and
770 Nm
 of torque, the former at 8,000 rpm and the latter comes in at 3,000 rpm. Output is
50 hp
 and
10 Nm
 more than the standard 488 GTB. Drive is sent to the rear wheels via a seven-speed F1 dual-clutch box. Century sprint takes
2.85 seconds
 and mesh the throttle for
7.6 seconds
 will take you from 0 to 200 km/h. Top speed is registered in excess of 340 km/h.

The increase in output also translates to more intense aural experience thanks to Inconel exhaust manifolds, lightweight crankshaft and flywheel, titanium con rods and carbon-fibre intake plenums.
Like all special edition Ferrari’s, the Ferrari 488 Pista gets tech derived from the
488 GTE race car
 for enhanced on-track performance. For starters the car weighs 90 kg compared to the 488 GTB but gets F1-inspired front S-Duct and front diffusers with ramp angle, redesigned underbody vortex generators and double kink rear diffuser for better aerodynamics. In addition, the rear spoiler now sits higher and extends longer in shape for 20 percent increase in downforce.
Despite the blistering performance, Ferrari wants to ensure that the Ferrari 488 Pista’s performance is accessible to all drivers, professional or otherwise. With that in mind,
Side-Slip Angle Control 6.0
 is incorporated and for the first time ever
Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer
 which uses software to adjust the brake pressure at the callipers. These additional level of control gives the driver more refined controls and predictability when driving at the limit.
Besides the racing livery strip that runs through the mid-section, the Ferrari 488 Pista can be further optioned with new 20-inch carbon-fibre wheels – a first for a Ferrari as well as the engine cover, bumpers and rear spoiler finished in carbon fibre.
IMAGE GALLERY


Ghosn in 60 seconds: Who will play Carlos in the upcoming blockbuster?

In what must be godsend to studios in Hollywood, the former chairman and CEO of the (Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi) Alliance became an international fugitive after pulling off an audacious escape from his house arrest in Tokyo. Ghosn had been awaiting trial after being charged with financial misconduct and breach of trust when serving as the
CEO of Nissan
.
Depending on which news sources you may be referring to, Ghosn was reported to have hid in a
musical instrument box
 (after a band had performed at his Tokyo residence) and whisked away by
mercenaries disguising as musicians
 to a local airport, purportedly Kansai International Airport at Osaka. The daring plan was allegedly hatched by his wife,
Carole Ghosn
.
Ghosn was said to have then boarded a
Bombardier business jet
 to Turkey before switching planes and ending up in
Lebanon
, where his ancestral home is. Ghosn holds Lebanese citizenship and is revered in the middle east state, and of course, Lebanon has no extradition treaty with Japan.
Upon his arrival, Ghosn issued a brief statement saying that he had not fled justice, but “
escaped injustice and political persecution
”. The former head of Nissan, famous for turning around the fortunes of the Japanese carmaker in the 2000s, is expected to hold a press conference soon to tell his side of the story. We can’t wait.
The Micra was one of the last few new Nissan models Ghosn unveiled.
Initial reports of Ghosn having fled Tokyo over the eye of the new year were barely believable, the
clandestine operation
 having caught the Japanese authorities wholly unaware and the world by storm. You can bet that high-powered executives from Hollywood studios are already making overtures to the Ghosn family for the rights to tell this incredible, still-developing story.
So, here’s our prediction for the all-star cast to the yet unnamed blockbuster;
Tom Cruise
 to play Carlos Ghosn,
Jennifer Lawrence
 as Carole Ghosn,
Ken Watanabe
 as the prosecutor and
Donnie Yen
 as Ghosn’s lawyer. Directed by
Ang Lee
. How’s that?


HSDM claims Hyundai’s resale value in Malaysia comparable to Japanese rivals

Hyundai’s vehicles’ resale value in the Malaysian second-hand market has apparently seen a significant rise over the last five years, thanks to increasing demand for the Korean brand’s pre-owned cars, according to sole distributor Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM).
HSDM’s says that the increase in demand locally is in line with the brand’s rising market share globally, as a result of Hyundai’s wins in a series of global awards for its cars.
Check out the new Hyundai Kona facelift in more detail here!
The perception that Hyundai cars have substantially lower resale value is wide off the mark, says HSDM Managing Director Low Yuan Lung. “The difference in the selling price of a five-year-old Hyundai model in comparison with the likes of a Japanese
model is marginal. The same goes for the depreciation value of both makes after five years, which is about 10% per year.”
“Hyundai has come a long way to prove itself to be a reliable car brand that is of superior quality. Hyundai models today are not just good-looking, but they are also equipped with the latest innovation that is at par with premium continental brands, which is why they are in demand,” he added.
The best indicator of the demand can be seen from HSDM’s own pre-owned car programme,
Hyundai Promise
; the company says that all the models on the programme have sold out soon after being listed.
All models that are listed on the Hyundai Promise programme have passed stringent and rigorous inspections to ensure that they are in optimal electrical and mechanical condition, and are major accident-free and only equipped with genuine parts.
Additionally, all approved and certified Hyundai Promise vehicles come with an extended warranty of between two and five years, and some even come with free service maintenance packages.
RELATED: Hyundai introduces extended warranty programme for older models – RM1,280 per year
Customers who would like to sell, trade-in, or purchase a car from Hyundai Promise can contact Sime Darby Auto Selection via its website, linked
here
.


All-new Subaru WRX teased again – Manual transmission confirmed!

The all-new
Subaru WRX
 was originally scheduled to make its debut
tomorrow
, but with the New York International Auto Show now cancelled, the fate of the sports sedan is pretty uncertain.
That’s not going to stop Subaru from continuing their teasers for the WRX, though, as the marque’s American arm has just published a
new video
 onto its social media channels, giving us a few more glimpse of the cult favourite before its launch.
Just like the first teaser, the new video also shows an orange-coloured Subaru WRX, doing what it does best in the desert. Most of the exterior shots are pretty much what we’ve already seen before – top-down and rear views, obscured by a huge plume of sand.
Overall, the silhouette of the all-new Subaru WRX doesn’t look too different to the outgoing model, and the rear profile looks somewhat similar to that of the
Viziv Performance Concept
 from 2017 and the
 all-new Subaru BRZ
, complete with massive rear haunches that extends from the flared fenders.
Check out the Subaru Viziv Performance Concept in more detail here!
What’s more interesting in this teaser, though, is that we finally get a look at the all-new Subaru WRX’s interior, confirming that it’ll indeed come with an honest-to-god
manual transmission
 and old-school handbrake lever!
We also got a look at the WRX’s (surprisingly analogue!) tachometer, showing a redline of just above 6,000 rpm, dropping from the 6,600 rpm of the outgoing model. The new redline seems to support the rumour that the all-new WRX will be equipped with the same 2.4-litre turbocharged boxer engine that’s currently found in the
Outback
 and Ascent SUV.
Subaru and Toyota are rumoured to be jointly developing an all-new AWD hot hatch! Learn more about it here.
In the Ascent, the boxer mill packs an output of
 260 hp
 and
376 Nm
 of torque, which is pretty similar to what the outgoing WRX has. Although, it’s expected that the sports sedan will get a slightly higher-rated output compared to the three-row SUV, with the STI variant getting an even larger bump in power.
As usual, Subaru’s Symmetrical All-wheel Drive system will be standard on the WRX, though it’s unclear if it’ll also still be offered with a Lineartronic CVT gearbox. Hopefully, we won’t have to wait too long more to find out!
GALLERY