Facts & Figures: CKD Mercedes-Benz GLA lowers prices, now from RM232k

In the similar launching ceremony with the
CKD Mercedes-Benz A-Class sedan
, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia also announced that the GLA compact SUV is now being locally-assembled at their Pekan facility in Pahang.

As such, the company has managed to introduce a new pricing level for both the Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 Progressive Line, now priced from
RM232,379.06
 and the GLA 250 AMG Line priced from
RM266,164.84
. These are inclusive of the sales tax exemption that, as of today, is set to expire on December 31st 2021.
The Mercedes-Benz GLA is the third SUV model to be locally-assembled by Mercedes-Benz Malaysia after the
GLC
 and more recently, the
GLE
.
GLA 200 Progressive Line
GLA 250 AMG Line
EXTERIOR
The locally-assembled Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class continues to be offered in two distinct trim levels and thus outlook appearance that are also unchanged from the initial model released in
December 2020
.
In the entry-level GLA 200, the Progressive Line exterior fits 18-inch rims in silver finish, a more off-road look front bumper with a basic grille design and higher levels of chrome on both bumpers. The GLA 250 AMG Line gets the sportier-looking front bumper with diamond pin grille, 19-inch dual-tone wheels with lowered comfort suspension and rear bumper with corner indents and central diffuser fins.
Standard items across both variants are LED head lamps and tail lamps, aluminium roof rails, Keyless-Go package and rain-sensing wipers.
PERFORMANCE
The powertrains available with the CKD models are untouched from the previously-introduced CBU Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class SUVs. They are also used in the CKD Mercedes-Benz A-Class sedans.
Model
GLA 200 Progressive Line
GLA 250 AMG Line
Engine
1,332 cc, turbocharged inline-four, petrol
1,991 cc, turbocharged inline-four, petrol
Transmission
7G-DCT dual-clutch transmission
8G-DCT dual-clutch transmission
Driveline
Front-engine, front-wheel drive
Front-engine, front-wheel drive
Max hp
163 hp at 5,500 rpm
224 hp at 5,500 rpm
Max torque
250 Nm at 1,620-4,000 rpm
350 Nm at 1,800 – 4,000 rpm
0 – 100 km/h
8.7 seconds
6.9 seconds
Top speed
210 km/h
240 km/h
As mentioned earlier, the GLA 250 AMG Line rides on lowered comfort suspension, while the GLA 200 rides on a normal comfort suspension that sits 15 mm higher.
Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 Progressive Line (CKD)
INTERIOR
Inside, all the goodies remain, such as the MBUX Infotainment displays with extended functions, power-adjustable front seats with memory function and black roof liner. Standard features in both variants include:
Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 Progressive Line
Spiral-look trim
Leather multifunction sports steering wheel
Comfort seats with 4-way lumbar support
Single-zone automatic climate control
Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 AMG Line (adds)
Light longitudinal-grain aluminium trim
Sports seats
Nappa leather-wrapped steering wheel with galvanized shift paddles
Ambient lighting
Illuminated door sill panels with “Mercedes-Benz” lettering
Floor mats with AMG branding
Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 AMG Line (CKD)
SAFETY
It’s great news that the safety features are also unchanged moving from fully imported to CKD assembly. Standard features on both variants include Pre-Safe System, autonomous emergency braking, reverse camera with parking assistance, driver’s knee airbag and Tirefit temporary spare tyre.
The higher-range GLA 250 AMG Line adds Blind Spot Assist.
GLA 200 Progressive Line
GLA 250 AMG Line
PRICING
As of today’s launch, the incentivised retail pricing is
RM232,379.06
 for the CKD GLA 200 Progressive Line, and
RM266,164.84
 for the CKD GLA 250 AMG Line. Compared to the prices of the CBU units with the same sales tax incentives, the local assembly sees a savings of circa RM11,820 for the GLA 200 and RM19,170 for the larger engine GLA 250.
The standard recommended retail price, which is scheduled to begin from January 2022, starts at
RM242,888
 for the CKD GLA 200 and
RM278,888
 for the CKD GLA 250. Included as standard in all prices is a four-year unlimited mileage warranty, but without insurance premiums.
With Mercedes-Benz Financial Services (MBFS) Malaysia’s Step Up Agility Financing Plan, the GLA 200 Progressive Line starts at
RM1,888
 per month, while the GLA 250 AMG Line starts at
RM2,288
 a month, based on a 5 years tenure period and a down payment of approximately 10%.
GALLERY
Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 Progressive Line (CKD)
Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 AMG Line (CKD)


Volvo S60 facelift introduced in Malaysia, priced at RM222k and RM269k

Volvo Malaysia has introduced another new model to their lineup, this time to take on key German rivals such as the Audi A4,
BMW 3-Series
 and
Mercedes C-Class
. It’s available here in two trims – a
1.6-litre
 180 hp T4 engine and the range topping
2.0-litre
 240 hp T5 engine.
QUICK FACTS
Name
Volvo S60 T4 Sedan
Volvo S60 T5 Sedan
Engine
1,596cc; 4-cyl turbo
1,999cc; 4-cyl turbo
Transmission
6-speed Powershift with Geartronic
6-speed Powershift with Geartronic
Max Power
180 hp @ 5,700 rpm
240 hp @ 5,500 rpm
Max Torque
240 Nm @ 1,600 – 5,000 rpm
320 Nm @ 1,800 to 5,000 rpm
0 – 100km/h; Top Speed
9.0 seconds; 225 km/h
7.5 seconds; 230 km/h
Price (OTR
without
insurance)
RM221,888.00
RM268,888.00

This Scandinavian beauty was one of the four Volvo models to make the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)
Top Safety Pick+ list
 for – you guessed it – being an exceptionally safe vehicle in its class.
EXTERIOR
Like the
XC60
, the changes done on the outside are somewhat similar and easily differentiated from the pre-facelift model. For instance, the S60 facelift gets a new front fascia and bonnet design, reworked headlights and a horizontally fitted LED daytime running lights. The grille is also bigger here, and the whole exterior package is supplemented by bolder horizontal lines around the car.

Telling the T4 and T5 apart is fairly easy, besides the obvious badge placed on their respective rumps. The T5 variant gets an additional radar box mounted to the grille, which grants you the trim exclusive Adaptive Cruise Control with Queue Assist and Distance Alert. The radar box is finished in gloss black, helping it blend better into the grille. Both variants sit on
17-inch wheels
, but the T4’s are wrapped with 215/50 R17 series tyres, while the T5 gets 235/45 R17 profiled rubbers.
INTERIOR
Inside, the S60 remains pretty much the same, featuring the Swedish carmaker’s familiar floating centre console design. What’s new here is the digital instrument cluster with 8-inch Adaptive Digital Display (ADD), similar to that of the
Volvo V40
 and XC60. The ADD, a feature
exclusive

only to the T5
 variant, uses an active Thin Film Transistor (TFT) crystal to project essential information to the driver, and there are
three themes
 to choose from – Elegance, Eco and Performance.

PERFORMANCE
Again, only two variants will be offered in two engine configurations. The T4 badge grants you a
1.6-litre GTDi
 turbocharged engine makes
180 hp
 at 5,700 rpm and
240 Nm
 of torque from 1,600 to 5,000 rpm, while the T5 variant gives you a
2.0-litre GTDi
 unit making an impressive
240 hp
 at 5,500 rpm and
320 Nm
 of torque from 1,800 rpm to 5,000 rpm.
All that power gets channeled to the front wheels only via Volvo’s six-speed Powershift dual clutch automatic gearbox with Geartronic. Its numbers are good for a 9-second 0 to 100 km/h sprint with the T4 and 7.5 seconds with the T5, while maxing out at 225 km/h and 230 km/h respectively.
SAFETY
Ah, if it isn’t what all Volvos have come to be known for. Despite costing a good
RM47k
 less than the T5, the base model T4 doesn’t quite fall short in terms of its safety features. We’re talking about a Volvo after all, right? It gets Active Bending Lights, City Safety tech (up to 50 km/h), Blind Spot Info System with Closing Vehicle Warning, Cross Traffic Alert, Intelligent Drive Info Display, Corner Traction Control by Torque Vectoring, Advanced Stability Control and Electric Parking Brake.
Also thrown into the safety pack are Dynamic Stability and Traction Control, ABS with Hydraulic Brake Assist, Ready Alert Brakes, child ISOFIX mount and a total of six airbags.
The T5 on the other hand, comes fitted with Adaptive Cruise Control with full auto braking and pedestrian detection, Driver Alert Control, Lane Departure Warning, Road Sign Information and Active Head Beam (anti-dazzling high beam function).
WHAT ELSE?
The T4 variant is priced at
RM221,888
 while the T5 costs
RM268,888
 OTR without insurance. Both variants come with Volvo’s extended coverage plan which includes a 5-year warranty, 5 years of free service including parts per scheduled maintenance, and 5 years of free roadside assist (Volvo-on-Call).
For those who want your S60 to look sportier, Volvo is offering an
R-Design Styling package
 on top of the already alluring Swedish sedan. Not long after the XC60 was introduced, a
twincharged T6 variant
 came along the way, one that’s good for
306 hp
 and
400 Nm
 of torque. Only time can tell if the S60 will come with such a motor.
[divider]
IMAGE GALLERY


Bentley celebrates 1,000 Mulliner projects with a bespoke purple Bentayga

Just seven years after its inception, Bentley’s Mulliner bespoke personalisation arm has now made its 1,000th project, and it’s a very purple
Bentley Bentayga
.
Lucky number 1,000 is not the most elaborate customisation work ever, with the customer only requesting for a bespoke interior consisting of Olive Ash (from the
Mulsanne
) trims on the dashboard, doors, and centre consoles, along with contrast twin stitch on the upper areas of the seats and door trims.
Still, it’s an impressive milestone for the custom design department, seeing that it has only been seven years since they launched their first project, a small 15-unit run of the Flying Spur ‘Serenity’ you see in the header photo above.
The Serenity focused on “increased levels of passenger comfort”, with re-engineered seats and headrests featuring the unique diamond quilting that went on to inspire today’s modern diamond design in the
 Continental GT Mulliner
.
The Bentley Bentayga V8 Design Series in Malaysia is a Mulliner commission piece, which means it’s the one in existence! Check out the one-of-one model here.
Mulliner’s curriculum vitae is an impressive one, with works ranging from jet-fighter inspired Continentals, a Bentayga with the interior split down the middle to differentiate between the driver and passenger sides, to completely unique Mulliner creations like the
Bentley Mulliner Bacalar
.
And their projects don’t just stop at actual cars. The Mulliner team also make accurate scale models for their customers, and were also instrumental in the creation of the optional picnic hampers for the Bentayga, complete with refrigerator, bespoke fine china cutlery, crockery and crystal glass, and storage area for dry goods. The hampers itself can also be removed and used as seats.
The new Bentley Bentayga is now available in Malaysia. Learn more about it here.
Commenting on the milestone, Bentley’s Director of Mulliner and Motorsport Paul Williams said, “Since 2014, our Mulliner Design team has averaged three customer commissions a week, showing just how popular bespoke Bentleys are becoming. The team, led by Design Manager Phill Dean, has worked on everything from Continental GT3 liveries all the way up to the specifications and details of the 12 cars of the Blower Continuation Series.
“The only thing all of those designs have in common is that they are for individual customers – apart from that, each one is as unique as the rest.”
There’s almost no limit to what Mulliner can do, with the only constraints being the customer’s imagination and the law, or so says Bentley. We’ll see what they can do for the next 1,000 and beyond, but something tells us that they’re all going to be quite special.
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Facelift 2022 Camry’s new feature makes it more Lexus than Toyota

Three years after it was
first revealed at the Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show
 in 2018, UMW Toyota Motor has launched the
2022 facelift Toyota Camry
. It’s fully imported from Thailand and like before, it’s only available in a single variant; priced from
RM199,109
.
2018 at KLIMS
2022
On the outside, the bulk of the changes lies at the front. With a significantly redesigned front bumper, with an additional camera and some sensors for the Panoramic View Monitor, the changes to the exterior are quite subtle but in our opinion, have made the 2022 Toyota Camry more elegant than before.
Despite already a 3-year old design (in Malaysia), these minor tweaks have not only made a 2018 car look fresh in 2022 but could also offer a timeless effect in the long run.
RELATED:
Find how Toyota transformed the Camry’s driving characteristic with the TNGA platform!
The new 2022 Toyota Camry gets a new 2.5-litre engine, with more power and torque at
 209 hp
 and
253 Nm
, along with a new 8-speed transmission that replaces the previous 6-speed unit. The new powertrain promises better real-world fuel efficiency, and better response and performance.
Inside is a larger touchscreen, a head-up display, less old-fashioned trims, and for the first time, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto but these, along with the new engine and transmission, still aren’t the biggest gamechanger for the new facelift Camry.
Camry
Lexus ES
It’s what they’ve added at the back, that makes it more Lexus than Toyota –
a console on the rear armrest with controls

for the infotainment and rear air-con system
 – just like the
Lexus ES we reviewed
. Along with switches on the front passenger seat that allows the rear passenger to move the front seat, Toyota seems to have further raised the premium image of the Camry.
Already an overqualified family sedan, it’s now just as suitable to be a limo but that’s not all. The
rear seats are now reclinable
! Yes, and adjusted through the armrest console. If that doesn’t make the Camry feel Lexus-like, I don’t know what does. Weirdly enough though, in untypical Toyota fashion, they didn’t offer storage beneath the armrest.
Coming back down to earth, it’s not entirely a bed of roses. Unfortunately, the more high-tech armrest does have a downside. When it’s not used to chauffeur you to work, and instead as a family car – carrying three at the back – the passenger in the middle may not have the most comfortable ride.
That’s because the armrest doesn’t tuck in entirely, and is almost too upright for the front passenger to enjoy the plush ride and suspension of the Camry. Ooops.
It’s as the cliche saying goes, “We can’t have it all”. That being said, despite having the reclinable rear seats, Toyota said the new feature has not affected the Camry’s boot space, at a generous 493-litres.
What are your thoughts on the 2022 Toyota Camry? Are you thinking about the Passat Elegance or even the R-Line? Stay tuned for the comparison!


Next Nissan GT-R to be the fastest supercar in the world

The
GT-R
 has been so synonymous with the term “game-changer” that honestly, I think we wouldn’t give it a pass even if they renamed the Godzilla to be called the “Nissan Game-changer”.
Known for its ability to punch way above its weight, it shook not just our worlds but the innards of Ferrari and Porsche for its ability to get off the line quicker than your jaws could drop. And it didn’t fail in the corners too.
That said, Nissan believes there’s still plenty the GT-R name can offer and they’re confident that the “latest reiteration” could be the fastest supercar in the world.
Are they done meddling with the “small boys”? Are they now looking to bring shame to the likes of Bugatti and Koenigsegg? We can only buckle down and wait till at least after 2020 for Nissan to “drop their new album”.
When kids cry in their sleep, it’s cause the GT-R50’s rear end was haunting them.
One thing is for sure; according to Autocar’s sit down with Nissan, the new GT-R will not take inspiration from the
limited-production GT-R50
 which was unveiled at the recent Goodwood Festival of Speed. Thank heavens… for obvious “aesthetic” reasons.
It’s uncertain whether or not there would be an “electric” element to the new GT-R’s powertrain but from what I’ve read, Nissan is confident that “big power” can be achieved regardless and the target is nothing less than
700 hp
.
Considering the
 GT-R50 debuted recently
 made the same power, it’s not exactly an overly ambitious figure. What’s for certain is that the “brick-like” stance that forms the imposing and audacious demeanour of the GT-R, will not change either.
IMAGE GALLERY


Honda City, Accord now offered with new colours in Malaysia

Honda Malaysia has updated its exterior body colour offerings on two of its sedan models, the
City
and
Accord
. Ignite Red Metallic and Meteoroid Gray Metallic joins the colour palette for the Honda City, while the Accord only gets the latter.
The new colours, first introduced on the
Honda City Hatchback
, will replace the existing Passion Red Pearl and Modern Steel Metallic colours respectively.
Ignite Red Metallic
Meteoroid Gray Metallic
Honda Malaysia Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Madoka Chujo said, The Ignite Red Metallic and Meteoroid Gray Metallic colours were introduced in the All-New City Hatchback for the first time. Both colours have been well accepted by the market and we expanded the new colour options to the
All-New Civic
.
“To further excite the market, we are now offering these new colour options in the City and Accord as well. The new colours further emphasise the styling of the City and elevate the sleek profile of the Accord. We will continue to enhance our products to deliver the Joy of Buying to the customers.”
RELATED: Looking for a used, less than 5-year old Honda? Check out Honda’s Certified Used Car programme!
The Honda City was
 launched here in Malaysia
 back in October 2020, with four variants on offer. Powering the range-topping RS variant is Honda’s i-MMD hybrid system, featuring a 1.5-litre atkinson cycle engine and a traction electric motor that makes
108 hp
 and
253 Nm
 of torque.
As for the other three variants, they’re powered by a 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated 4-cylinder engine that makes
121 hp
 and
145 Nm
 of torque, with drive transferred to the front wheels via a CVT gearbox.

To date, Honda Malaysia has sold over 32,500 units of the fifth-generation City, with the B-segment sedan even taking the crown as the company’s best-selling model in January and February of 2022, contributing 38% to the company’s total sales during that period.
As for the Accord, the all-new 10th-generation model was
launched here in February 2020
, powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine making
201 hp
 and
260 Nm
 of torque – a figure the company claims is higher than what most 2.4-litre naturally aspirated engines make. Since launch, The company has delivered over 2,200 units to Malaysian owners.


Volkswagen opens registration of interest for all-new Golf GTI and R-Line in Malaysia

After making its regional debut in
Singapore
, it looks like we will soon be able to savour the latest eight-generation
(Mk. 8) Volkswagen Golf
 as Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has quietly inserted a page for registration of interest in their website.
On the website, two variants are teased – the revered
Volkswagen Golf GTI
 and the
Golf TSI R-Line
, which is a mirror of the line-up in Singapore. No mention of features of specifications on the Malaysian units, but highly likely it will also follow suite of what is offered in Singapore.
The Mk.8 Volkswagen Golf GTI features the familiar 2.0-litre turbocharged engine that is upgraded, now producing
245 hp
 at 5,000 rpm to redline and
370 Nm
 of torque from just 1,600 rpm and paired with the ever rapid-shifting DSG transmission with seven ratios driving just the front wheels. 0 to 100 km/h is dispatched in just
6.4 seconds
.
Volkswagen says this latest GTI is also the most digital variant of all time, with the fully computer-controlled chassis handled by the new
Vehicle Dynamics Manager
. It integrates the ESC, with the new electronic differential locks (XDS and VAQ) and the continuously adaptive electronic damping control system (DCC).
The VW Golf GTI Clubsport is ready for the Nurburgring at a touch of a button. Read about it here!
A new digital environment has been created for the Mk.8 Volkswagen Golf, featuring a 10.25-inch Digital cockpit and a big 10-inch infotainment screen. All the driving and vehicle settings is accessed via the central touchscreen. Other novelties in the interior include a 30-colour ambient lighting, three-zone air-conditioning and a sporty interior theme.
The Volkswagen Golf 1.5 TSI R-Line meanwhile features an all-new 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine with outputs of
150 hp
 and
250 Nm
 of torque. In major markets, the powertrain is fitted with a mild-hybrid assist system (eTSI) to return self-charging hybrid-like fuel consumption of just
4.8 litres per 100 km
 travelled.
Making its European debut in late 2019, the Volkswagen Golf continued its strong foothold by ending 2020 as the region’s
bestseller
. It has been rumoured that VPCM has plans to
locally-assemble
 the Mk.8 Volkswagen Golf at their facility in Pekan, Pahang, where it currently churns out the
Tiguan Allspace
, the
Passat
 and the latest
Arteon R-Line 4Motion
.
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Kia reveals more details on the all-new Sportage – two ICE powertrains, hybrid and PHEV soon

Following the unveiling of the gorgeous
fifth-generation Kia Sportage
 last month, the Korean carmaker has now followed up with some more photos of the all-new SUV model, along with a full list of specifications for the Korean market.
Firstly, the size – the all-new Sportage will be available in either a long- or short-wheelbase version, depending on market. For the former, the SUV measures 4,660 mm in length, 1,865 mm in width, and 1,660 mm in height, making it 180 mm longer, 10 mm wider and 25 mm taller than before.
But is bigger always better? Here are some reasons you might prefer a sedan instead!
Kia says that the increase in size has enabled to Sportage to boast class-leading rear legroom (1,050 mm), headroom (1,000 mm) and luggage space (637 litres). The rear seats can also be folded down with a button press for a flat cargo space to easily fit in bulkier items.
At launch, the all-new Sportage will be available with a choice of two internal combustion engines, both slightly upgraded versions from those in the outgoing model. A hybrid and plug-in hybrid variant will be introduced at a later date.
The petrol variant is powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged inline-four engine that’s good for 180 hp and 265 Nm, and is paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (or a six-speed manual). Meanwhile, the diesel variants get a 2.0-litre turbodiesel mill with 186 hp and 417 Nm, that’s paired as standard to an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
Off-road enthusiasts can only opt for the oil burners for now, as they are the only ones to offer a variable all-wheel drive system. Although, it does come with a new Terrain Mode with auto, snow, mud, and sand settings that alters the drivetrain to better suit the trickier terrains.
For on-the-road driving though, all of them boast a “refined, stable and comfortable ride” with better handling characteristics, thanks to the new third-generation N3 architecture that underpins the all-new Kia Sportage. Hybrid models will also get something called the “E-Handling system” which supposedly further increase agility and stability on corner entry and exit, through smarter torque and brake force distribution.
As for safety, the all-new Kia Sportage comes as standard with an abundance of advanced driver assistance features, including autonomous emergency braking, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA), Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM), as well as a Remote Smart Parking Assist system.
The Kia Sportage also comes with the Highway Drive Assist (HDA) system, which offers level 2 semi-autonomous driving capabilities with smart cruise control based on navigation data from the on-board infotainment system.
Speaking of infotainment, the cabin of the all-new Sportage is dominated by a huge curved display panel, which houses both the instrument and infotainment screens – both measuring 12-inches in diameter, and features the latest LCD technology for clearer graphics.
Kia says that both the displays have been created to be easy-to-use, highly intuitive and “soft to touch” – but the ergonomic considerations don’t end just at the touchscreens. The centre console has also been “optimally positioned” for the driver and front passenger, offering storage space, infotainment controls, soft-touch switches, and a shift-by-wire transmission dial.
That all sounds great, but frankly, we’re still stuck here staring at this gorgeous white-and-blue upholstery colour combination.
Of course, we can’t talk about the new Sportage without mentioning its striking design – although we did leave it to the very end here. You’ve already heard all about Kia’s marketing blurbs when the car was first unveiled, so we’re going to skip that here.
Take a closer look at Kia’s latest “Opposites United” design language on the EV6!
But in terms of specifications, the all-new Kia Sportage will be offered with wheels ranging from 17- to 19-inches in diameter, depending on trim levels. There’ll be a GT-Line model with sportier styling cues, and a new X-Line package that adds rugged front and rear bumper designs, silver skid plates, and roof rails.
The all-new Kia Sportage is now available for pre-orders in South Korea, with prices ranging from 24.42 million won (~RM90k) to 31.85 million won (~RM124k). The new model is expected to go on sale later this year, though the specification for other markets (and hopefully Malaysia) will only be revealed at the later global launch.
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Car tint rules amended, darker windows are now allowed

In the latest announcement made by transport minister YB Anthony Loke, the new rules for vehicle window tinting allow for darker rear windows on all private vehicles.
The existing rule of Visible Light Transmission level (VLT) for the
front windscreen
 and
front side windows
 remain at
70 percent
 and
50 percent
 respectively. According to Road Transport Department Malaysia (JPJ), they stated that it’s permissible to have the rear windows in any VLT percentage once the new rules take effect on 8th of May 2019.
You can now go for the all-dark privacy glass look, subject to a few conditions.
However, those who need to have darker front windows for security purposes can submit an application for RM 50. The application will then go through a
special committee
 to ensure the applicant has a clean record and once approved, a fee of
RM 5,000
 will be imposed and the application is valid for
two years
.
Those who are applying for
health reasons
 are exempt from charges, provided they have
written confirmation
 from government medical specialist.


Lotus Elise Race 250 is the most hardcore Elise ever made!

Exactly 50 years ago, in 1966, the Vietnam War worsened, Star Trek aired its first episode and the first-generation Toyota Corolla was introduced. In the same year, the late Colin Chapman opened the doors to his car manufacturing facility in Hethel, Norfolk, marking the new era of Lotus Cars.
The Lotus Elise, widely labelled as a road-legal go kart, was never considered a proper race car and always lived in the shadow of the
Exige
. Well, not anymore, because the Lotus Elise Race 250 is out to change all that. It’s also a beautiful way to celebrate 50 years of crafting great cars in Hethel, no?
So, what’s new? Apart from being the
most track-focused Elise
, Lotus claims that this Elise can participate in many race series around the world. As a true track car hero, it receives full aero package, including front splitter, rear diffuser, floor extensions and a rear wing for added downforce.
Rollcage, removable steering wheel, fire extinguisher and harness bar are all part and parcel of a race car, and the Elise Race 250 features all that. Being a lightweight specialist, all items deemed unnecessary are removed or replaced. For instance, the front headlamps are replaced with lightweight composite blanking panels, the rear windscreen gets a lighter polycarbonate version, and a lighter lithium ion battery is used. If you decide to opt for the Carbon Aero Pack, the car will still weigh just 900kg!
Powering this beast is the same Toyota-sourced motor shared with the
Elise Cup 250
; a 1.8-litre four cylinder engine strapped to a
supercharger
 that pushes out
243 hp
 and
250 Nm
 of torque. Being an all-purpose track car,
a six-speed manual
 gearbox is used here, channeling drive to the rear wheels. No top speed and acceleration figures were revealed, but it’s definitely the hottest Elise ever made. Why? Because it lapped the Hethel test track in 1 minute 33.5 seconds. The Elise Cup 250 managed just 0.5 seconds slower.
To the folks at Hethel, power isn’t everything because Lotus cars slice through corners. To complement the extra grunt, this Elise comes with adjustable anti-roll bar, Nitron adjustable dampers and Eibach coaxial coil springs. Brakes are supplied by AP Racing; a twin-piston front callipers and Brembo single-piston for the rear. It comes with an ultra-lightweight forged alloy wheels shod with Yokohama AO48 rubbers.
The Lotus Elise Race 250 is not exactly cheap, at
£53,500
 (approximately
 RM286k
). But compare that to some of the other race-ready machines in the UK, those typically command a six-figure price. Now, we wonder, will the Elise Race 250 ever reach Malaysian shores?


This is the world’s first (converted) Tesla pick-up truck!

Her name is Simone Giertz, and having been sick of waiting for Tesla to build a truck, decided to take it upon herself to do so.
Known for quirky experiments and builds on her YouTube channel with all things electronics and robots, Simone even gave the truck a name – fittingly called the “Truckla”.

What’s even crazier is that the
Model 3
 was not even sponsored by Tesla, she actually bought the car with the absurd intention to cut it up and literally “bastardise” it.
To ease the pain of taking the fully electric car, she even keyed the “Truckla” name across the tailgate – something which was immensely difficult to watch!

Do not for a second think that it’s a botch job though; everything from weight distribution to chassis/structural rigidity was taken into account. Check out the 30 minute video above and witness what they had to endure to accomplish the project!
IMAGE GALLERY


Setel now lets you refuel your car with just one tap of a button

Setel
 has introduced a new ‘One-Tap Fuelling’ feature, which as its name suggests, enables users to activate the fuel pump with just one tap on the app upon arrival at any Petronas stations nationwide. The feature is currently available for the first 1,000 registered Setel users across the country, and will be gradually rolled-out to all users in the next two months.
Compared to the current process of refuelling with Setel, which requires five clicks in the app, the new feature simplifies the process to just a single tap after completing a one-time setup. As with any other fuel purchases made through Setel, the new One-Tap Fuelling feature will also earn users Mesra points instantly with a linked loyalty card.
Setel Chief Executive Officer, Mazlin Erawati Ab Manan said, “We are constantly innovating and developing solutions that meet our users’ ever-evolving needs, especially in this endemic period where Malaysians are travelling more frequently than before. Over the past four years, our loyal users have continuously raved about their refuelling experience at Petronas stations.
“Setel offers a more personalised and faster refuelling journey for its users. Gone are the days of rummaging through wallets for cash or cards to refuel and earn loyalty points. We understand the scarcest resource a customer has is time,” she added.
RELATED:
You can now pay for EV charging via Setel from RM1.20 per minute
Can’t wait for the feature to be rolled out to you? You can opt-in for early bird access by posting an Instagram Story or Tweet of your ‘Dah Setel So Far’ page with the caption: “I want One-Tap Fuelling now”, tag @setel, and include the #SetelOneTapFuelling hashtag.
From now until October 4, 2022, Setel users will also stand a chance to win limited-edition Setel gift boxes when they upload their most creative video on Instagram or Twitter showing their experience using the One-Tap Fuelling feature. Remember to also include the same tag and hashtag in the post.
Setel says that the app’s future updates will allow users to pre-set their preferred fuelling amount, either by litres or a full tank, when setting up the One-Tap Fuelling feature. Users will also be able to select their preferred payment method, which includes CardTerus for direct payments via debit or credit cards, as well as Setel Share, a feature that allows users to
share their Setel Wallet or CardTerus
 with two others to pay whilst jointly earning Mesra points.
The latest version of the Setel app can be downloaded for free on iOS and Android via the Apple Store, Google Play Store, and Huawei AppGallery.
ALSO READ:
Get AXA motor insurance in just 3 steps with the Setel app!


BMW shows off its new digital instrument cluster, with new iDrive system

BMW has showed off how the instrument clusters in future BMWs – with analogue dials replaced by digital graphics – would look like and will be presented for the first time in the new X5 set to be unveiled later this year.
The new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, designed to portray the signature front end of BMW vehicles, displays all the driver assistance systems grouped on the left side of the screen, while various parameters of the car such as the G-meter and consumption figures can be summoned on the right side.
Powered by BMW’s new Operating System 7.0, the new iDrive system is not only capable of displaying sharper, more intuitive graphics on the infotainment display but also allows up to four different “tiles”, essentially widgets, to be placed in one page. Up to 10 pages are allocated for “shortcuts” to your most commonly used features.
Voice control has also been improved, together with two additional gestures added to the system – bringing the range of gesture controls to a total of seven. The new OS is also able to furnish the driver with information according to the situation the driver is in.
For example, if the vehicle is approaching the preset destination, the system will automatically display the parking options available nearby.
IMAGE GALLERY


Next-gen MINI EV models to get MINI OS 9, AirConsole gaming, Digitial Key Plus

Just over two months ago,
MINI
 teased its new round OLED screen that will be featured in its upcoming range of all-electric (EV) models, among other design details. And now, the carmaker has revealed to us some software details and features that will be available with the round display.
First up, the round OLED display, dubbed as the MINI Interaction Unit will be running on the brand’s latest MINI Operating System 9, which will bring a new user interface design that is optimised for touch control. Developed in-house by the
BMW Group
, the MINI OS 9 is the first version of the operating system to be based on an Android Open Source Project (AOSP).
Designed to be simple and easy to navigate, the MINI OS 9 features a start menu at the centre of the screen. The lower section of the screen houses a fixed status bar which contains menu items such as “Navigation”, “Media”, “Telephony”, and “All Apps”.
Swiping up from the bottom of the screen will reveal a tool belt, which is where users can store their favourite functions for easy access. The screen’s upper area, on the other hand, is reserved for driving relevant content. This includes vehicle speed and important vehicle status information. Customers can opt for an optional head-up display which can also display certain important information, without the need to take their eyes off the road.
RELATED:
MINI teases new steering wheel, OLED screen for upcoming models
Built upon
BMW’s
 latest tech stack, the MINI OS 9 will come together with the new MINI Experience Modes, which contains a total of eight of them. Each mode will have its own blend of colour, sound, and user interface design combinations to provide what BMW Group describes as “a particularly immersing driving experience”.
There is also an optional light projector located behind the MINI interaction Unit which will match the ambient lighting system with the Experience Mode selected. The content presented on the optional head-up display will adapt accordingly to the selected Experience Mode too.
Just in case you’re worried about the quiet EV life being too quiet, MINI’s got you covered as it is packaging its next-gen models with new EV sounds and jingles. If you have been missing the classic huge round speedometer featured in older MINI models, the MINI Interaction Unit can also be transformed into the typical MINI-style speedometer under certain Experience Modes.
The upcoming EV MINI models will be fitted with the new MINI Connected Store, giving customers access to apps such as Spotify and the AirConsole gaming platform, similar to the one
debuted in recent BMW models
.
Thus far, it is clear enough that the MINI Interaction Unit is stuffed with a myriad of features. However, that’s not all. MINI will be debuting its MINI Interactive Unit with its new cloud-based MINI Navigation system, alongside its brand-new MINI Intelligent Personal Assistant, which is capable of recognising who is speaking to it. Like prior MINI models, the upcoming EV MINI models will continue to come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support.
Also
available with BMW models
, the new EV MINI models will be fitted with the optional MINI Digital Key Plus feature. It provides digital vehicle access to customers with compatible Apple, Google, and Samsung devices, allowing them to unlock their cars without having to take their phones out of their pockets.
MINI head of brand, Stefanie Wurst said, “We are taking a massive leap into the digital world with the new MINI family and, in so doing, underscoring the charismatic heritage of the brand. The iconic central display in the new MINI family is round and will be filled with round content for the first time. I am convinced that the digital power of the new models will delight MINI customers around the world.”
RELATED:

MINI Electric Resolute Edition now available with new exterior colours, from RM205k
GALLERY


Bugatti bids farewell to the W16 engine with the Mistral roadster

With electrification taking over the automotive world, it’s no surprise that the W16 engine will be retired, perhaps sooner rather than later. Well, the day has finally come, but
 Bugatti
 is at least giving the 8.0-litre monster of an engine a proper send off with the new W16 Mistral.
The W16 engine is now synonymous with the Bugatti brand, having been in every model ever since the introduction of the
Veyron
 back in 2005. Now in its final iteration, the eight-litre, quad turbocharged mill delivers a mighty
1,600 hp
 and
1,600 Nm
 – or 60% more horsepower than the one first introduced on the Veyron.
There really couldn’t be a more perfect way to send off the W16 than a topless roadster, and with that amount of power under your right foot, Bugatti says that the Mistral is the “ultimate roadster”, despite being the first – and last – topless model in the
Chiron
 era.
With that being said, however, Bugatti says the W16 Mistral is much more than just a Chiron with its roof chopped off; the design and existing monocoque chassis have all been completely reengineered exclusively for the model, so performance isn’t compromised despite losing a large part of its structure.
In terms of design, the W16 Mistral draws inspiration from the many roadsters in Bugatti’s history, with the most prominent one being the Type 57 Roadster Grand Raid. The majority of the styling touches can be traced back to the 1934 model, including the two aerodynamic humps behind the headrests, the roof-mounted air scoops, and the visor-style V-shaped windscreen that visually wraps around the A-pillars for a clean, motorsports-inspired look.
Even the paint job on the all-new W16 Mistral harks back to the Grand Raid – the black-and-yellow duo-tone livery is inspired by a particular unit of the antique model sitting in the Louwman Museum in Den Haag, and is said to be one of Ettore Bugatti’s favourite combinations which he frequently used on many of his own personal cars.
RELATED:
A shot of Bugatti’s ‘espresso’ in its London showroom costs RM267!
Aside from the older roadsters, Bugatti’s designers also tried to bring some of the brand’s more modern styling touches onto the W16 Mistral. The more upright horseshoe grille is inspired by the
Divo
 and
La Voiture Noire
, while the rear-end also gets the X-theme taillight from the
Bolide
, which was
named “most beautiful hypercar” in 2021.
These design touches aren’t merely for show, either. The headlights’ three-dimensional surface helps funnel air through to the wheel arch to help improve aerodynamic drag, while the wider grille also allows the high-temperature engine radiator to be fully fed purely from one intake, leaving the two side intakes to focus solely on the intercoolers.
The X-taillight vents the side oil coolers through ducts connecting the triangular negative space, while the ram induction air scoop behind the headrests is also built with a bespoke carbon fibre structure to act as a roll hoop in case of a rollover – the structure is able to support the car’s entire weight.
And of course, with the air intake being right behind the drivers’ ears, the air scoops also help create an orchestral aural experience on the W16 Mistral, with the rumbling eight-litre’s displacement intake noise being heard during throttle, and the turbochargers’ blow-off valve at throttle lift.
ALSO READ:
Bugatti launches new personalisation division with bespoke Chiron Pur Sport “Grand Prix”
The interior of the W16 Mistral is based on the Bugatti Chiron, but honed to ensure that everything is functional and visible even when the driver is being face-blasted with wind at 420 km/h. As usual, the highest quality materials are being used here including titanium, milled aluminium, and leather, but the main highlight of the Mistral’s cabin is found on the gear shifter.
Machined from a solid block of aluminium, the W16 Mistral’s gear shifter features a touch of wood to elevate its luxuriousness, alongside an amber insert featuring Rembrandt Bugatti’s famous ‘dancing elephant’ sculpture. Iterations of this sculpture adorned the bonnet of the legendary Type 41 Royale, which Bugatti says is the “most luxurious roadster ever created”.
Only 99 examples of the Bugatti W16 Mistral will be built, and they’re priced at EUR5 million nett (approx. RM22.3 million). But even if you are a billionaire, chances are you won’t be able to get your hands on one for now, as the entire production run of the limited-edition swansong model has already been sold out.
GALLERY


Proton DX Centre officially launched – Malaysia’s first automotive digital experience centre

Proton
 has just officially launched the Proton DX (Digital Experience) Centre, located at Quill City Mall. Developed by Aco Tech, in collaboration with Proton and China Construction Bank (CCB), The Proton DX Centre is the first automotive digital experience centre in Malaysia.
The Proton DX Centre is specifically located on Ground Floor, Quill City Mall, 1018, Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur. The centre is also open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
The local carmaker says that the Proton DX Centre houses a blend of interactive technology, leisure, and lifestyle elements, to create a unique experiential centre. The Proton DX centre, which spans 5,275 sq ft, essentially comprises six zones, which include the Virtual Cockpit, Activity Zone, Lifestyle Zone, Atlas Mall showcase, Aico Cafe, and Delivery Bay.
The Virtual Cockpit is essentially the main highlight of the Proton DX Centre. Visitors can enjoy a virtual drive in an enclosed theatre-like dome to experience Proton’s showcase of smart mobility. Besides showcasing the latest automotive technologies in the market, the Virtual Cockpit also serves as a platform for conceptual experiences that incorporate future mobility innovations.
The Activity Zone is an interactive space where visitors of the proton DX centre can enjoy motion-sensing games individually, or with their family and friends. Proton says that the Activity Zone will also be used as a space for collaborative events.
RELATED:
Scoop: Proton Exora to cease production by end of 2023 – New MPV coming soon?
The Lifestyle Zone consists of exclusive merchandise and souvenirs that visitors can purchase. This zone also showcases unique activewear and lifestyle merchandise from an ongoing collaboration between Proton DX and Joma. This represents the lifestyle component of a greater mobility ecosystem from the local carmaker, which the carmaker says will be available in the centre in the future.
Seeing the growing preference for online purchases among Malaysians, Aco Tech has enabled customers to purchase neglected products from the Atlas Auto mobile application. And for customers who would like to have a hands-on experience with the products prior to placing their orders, the Atlas Mall showcase is also present in the Proton DX centre.
In addition to products on sale in the Atlas Auto app, official merchandise from other brands in the
Geely
 Group, such as
Lynk & Co
 and
Zeekr
 are also on display here. Last but not least is the delivery bay. Customers can specially request their new Proton cars to be delivered at the centre itself.
The local carmaker says that the Proton DX is a centre for car and technology enthusiasts of all ages to gather and be immersed in the latest innovations in the automotive. The Proton DX Centre also aspires to serve as an engaging platform for Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) education, and spark interest in the field among the younger generation.
ACO Tech Chief Executive Officer Mr Li Pu said, “Smart mobility in the automotive industry is evolving at an accelerated pace. We are passionate about providing solutions that enhance the driving experience, to make every drive a good one for Malaysians. Proton DX is one of the platforms that showcases our expertise.”
He added, “This centre offers an immersive space for everyone to learn about the innovative technologies that go into an automobile and at the same time, provide an experience that goes beyond being on the road. In our efforts to lead the smart mobility industry, we hope to make Proton DX a platform for STEM education. This is part of our commitment to raise the level of technological awareness and knowledge of the nation.”
RELATED:
Proton commits to launching at least one New Energy Vehicle (NEV) per year


Proton names Roslan Abdullah as new Deputy CEO

Proton
 has announced the appointment of Roslan Abdullah as its new Deputy Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Dato’ Radzaif Mohamed, who retired at the end of last year. He officially assumed office on the 1st of January 2022.
Prior to the new role, Roslan Abdullah was the Vice President of Sales and Marketing for the national carmaker, as well as Chief Executive Officer for Proton Edar – roles he had held since the 1st of June 2020.
He has a wealth of experience within the automotive sector spanning over three decades, having previously served in Modenas, Isuzu Hicom Malaysia, as well as Honda Malaysia – the latter where he held dual roles of President and Chief Operating Officer. He also holds a finance and accounting degree from the University of Brighton, United Kingdom.
“Roslan Abdullah has played a key role in supporting the leadership of Proton and guiding the overall management of the business, particularly by strengthening the sales and marketing functions. I am confident we will be able to form a strong partnership to lead the company to greater heights,” said Proton CEO Dr Li Chunrong.
ALSO READ: Proton sold 114,708 cars in 2021 – now the best-selling SUV brand in Malaysia
The new
Proton Iriz Active
Roslan’s predecessor, Dato’ Radzaif Mohamed, was instrumental in overseeing the eventual partnership between DRB-HICOM and Zhejiang Geely Holding (Geely). Having held the role since 1 April 2016, he played an important part in steering the company to its current standing in the automotive industry today, Proton said in a statement.
“Proton would like to place on record our appreciation to Dato’ Radzaif Mohamed for his invaluable contribution and unwavering commitment towards our success. The importance of getting it right in the early days of the partnership with Geely has been critical towards the company’s turnaround thus far, and his leadership during this period was invaluable,” added Li.


Valtteri Bottas drives a lap around Albert Park Circuit with his eyes closed

“Practice makes perfect” is how the saying usually goes. For Formula 1 drivers though, it’s really more akin to “practice until you can do it without looking”.
F1 cars nowadays have so many settings to adjust on the fly, that even four-time Formula 1 World Champion Sebastian Vettel said that it’s like a computer, and is “very complicated”.
In order to change these settings while driving at full throttle, F1 drivers utilise their years of experience and hundreds of hours on the simulator to develop a “sixth sense” for the track, enabling them to basically drive with their eyes closed.

As a demonstration of that very skill,
Mercedes-AMG F1 driver Valtteri Bottas
 takes us around the Albert Park circuit in Melbourne, but with a twist – he’s actually seated in the middle of an empty room, armed with nothing but two chairs and his imagination.
Starting from the main straight, Bottas goes through each turn with the correct imaginary steering wheel input, while at the same time giving a commentary of the corner itself, or even how the car behaves at certain points of the track.
For example, Bottas pointed out that at the exit of turn 10, the car usually oversteers and pushes it wide towards the wall. He even remembers where the tracks are bumpier – such as the braking zone into turn 13, giving himself a mental note every time on track to be careful under threshold braking.
Bottas ends the lap with a fist bump, along with his iconic “to whom it may concern” radio message, a reference to his win at the 2019 Australian Grand Prix.
If you can’t tell by now, we are really excited for the start of the 2020 Formula 1 season – scheduled to start this weekend in Melbourne, Australia,
if all things go according to plan
.


Every BMW M2 should look like the CS Racing race car

Even though the TC America racing series isn’t something motorsport fans outside of North America are familiar with, it doesn’t mean we can’t admire the oh-so-delectable
BMW M2 CS Racing
 which made its North American debut at the
24 Hours of Daytona
 recently.
At the very least, the M2 CS Racing serves as a reference for BMW enthusiasts hoping to emulate its blistered bodywork and gorgeous M Motorsport decals for their road going M2 coupes, but please read up on JPJ guidelines before you transform the car.

BMW Group Motorsport Director Jens Marquardt said, “BMW racing cars have enjoyed regular success in North America since the 1970s and they really thrill the fans. That applies to our GT cars and to the BMW M2 CS Racing’s predecessors that helped BMW customer teams to secure countless wins and titles over the years. From the 2021 season onwards, we are aiming to add a new chapter to our history of success in North American motorsport with the BMW M2 CS Racing.”
The new customer racing car is powered by the
3.0-litre S55 in-line 6-cylinder to the tunes of 280 hp and 365 hp
, depending on the racing classifications. The maximum torque of
550 Nm
 is transferred to the rear wheels via a
7-speed dual-clutch transmission
 running specialist motorsport software.
Another highlight of the BMW M2 CS Racing is its
engine management
 (similarly with the BMW M4 GT4) which enables various performance levels to be programmed and retrieved subject to regulations. BMW Motorsport is also developing an
upgrade variant
 of the BMW M2 CS Racing with
450 hp
 for the club racing segment that’s gaining popularity in North America.

BMW M2 CS Racing gallery


TC Euro Cars’ new 0% GST prices for Renault vehicles are unbelievable

TC Euro Cars (TCEC), the sole franchise holder for Renault vehicles in Malaysia, has announced revised prices for its Renault range, which will take effect immediately with the upcoming implementation of the zero-rated GST.
On top that, TCEC is also offering additional incentives in the form of
rebates on the related models
, to unbelievable price tags.
All revised prices above are on-the-road, without insurance, for Peninsular Malaysia and private individual Malaysian registration only. The revised figures include Renault’s
5-year full manufacturer’s warranty with unlimited mileage
 for the models listed in the table above.
As for the Renault Captur, the new 0% GST price also covers the 5-in-Captur aftersales package including 5-years or up to 100,000 km (whichever comes first) free service and maintenance (parts and labour), 5-years manufacturer’s warranty with unlimited mileage, complimentary 24 hours roadside assistance, pick-up and delivery during scheduled maintenance at Renault service centres and vehicle replacement car in the event any part is not available for over 48 hours at authorised service centres, subject to availability.


The Go is a suitcase-sized power bank for your EV, adds up to 64 km of range

We could see this coming as prospective customers always mention range anxiety as their barrier to purchasing electric vehicles (EVs). As charging takes time plus limited spots, the next best solution is bringing the charger and battery to the EV.
ZipCharge has just unveiled the Go at the ongoing COP26 UN Climate Conference, a portable EV charging unit that combines hardware, software, machine learning and innovative ownership models to bring affordable, practical EV charging to the masses.
The Go, in essence, is a power bank for EVs that require just that additional charge should the next journey require more travelling. ZipCharge also caters to a specific vehicle usage pattern in the UK, where four in ten car-owning households do not even have designated curbside parking.
This is Volkswagen’s robotic power bank and even comes with a grin when it empties itself!
As such, the ability to drag along the suitcase-sized Go portable EV charger is quite a blessing. The Go, fitted with the necessary cables and software, is said to provide between
32 to 64 km
 of range (vehicle dependent), which is sufficient for everyday needs and enough for the average commute in the UK. Charging cost using the home domestic socket (to charge up the Go) is also lower than at public EV chargers, an aspect where ZipCharge is clever to highlight.
It only takes up to
60 minutes
 to fully charge the Go. For those who are incredibly well versed with charging rates and time, the Go can even generate revenue for the owner by selling the energy back to the grid via the bi-directional AC-DC inverter.
The MoF of Malaysia has proposed that individuals be given a tax relief when installing home EV chargers. More about Budget 2022 here.

ZipCharge is planning to offer the Go for as little as
GBP49
 (approx. RM278) per month or outright purchase. Owners can also customise the colours and finishes to match their EVs. This power bank surely hits the right note for urban dwellers who want quiet, zero-local emission personal mobility without the hassle of locating public chargers.
GALLERY


2020 Lexus LX 570 now open for booking – improved safety features, new Sport variant

Lexus Malaysia today announced that it has begun accepting orders for the updated 2020 LX 570 here on our shores. The
full-sized luxury SUV
 is available locally in two forms – standard and a new Sport variant, with prices starting at RM1,225,883 on the road, without insurance, and inclusive of
SST exemptions
.
Appearance wise, not much has changed since the third-generation model received its third facelift exercise back in 2015. The marque’s signature spindle grille design gives the large luxury SUV a muscular stance on the road, flanked by LED headlights that’s now equipped with sequential turn signals.
The Lexus LX 570 gets a new Terrane Khaki Mica Metallic exterior colour, and the look is completed by 21-inch machine-finished wheels as standard – an optional item in other markets, which starts at 20-inch items.
The Sport variant on the other hand gains new sporty front and rear bumpers, along with a set of sportier-looking 21-inch forged rims with a more “open” design. The spindle grille on the LX 570 Sport also gets a different L-shaped block mesh design, as opposed to the horizontal slats on standard LX.
Lexus LX 570 Sport
Inside, the 2020 Lexus LX 570 remains pretty much unchanged from the previous iteration, introduced here in 2015. Highlights include the 19-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, the seat back-mounted 11.6-inch Rear Seat Entertainment screens for the second row passenger, as well as third-row powered ventilated seats.
The new Sport variant meanwhile gets additional illuminated scuff plates, aluminium sports pedals with rubber inserts, as well as door courtesy lamps (puddle lights), projecting the logo of the car. New interior colours have also been introduced to the LX (on both variants), including Garnet, Sun Flare Brown, and Ocher.
The powertrain on the Lexus LX 570 is also unchanged; both variants are powered by a 5.7-litre V8 engine, putting out
367 hp
 and
530 Nm
 of torque to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission and a full-time all-wheel drive driveline with variable fore-and-aft torque split.
Performance wise, the LX 570 does 0-100 km/h in 7.7 seconds, onward to a top speed of 210 km/h. The full-sized SUV is also said to be capable of towing up to 3,500 kg of cargo.
However, perhaps more importantly in a proper SUV like the LX is its off-roading capabilities. For that purpose, the Lexus LX 570 is equipped as standard with Adaptive Variable Suspension, Active Height Control, Multi Terrain Select, Hill Start Assist, as well as Crawl Control where the vehicle takes care of braking and acceleration on slippery slopes.
Befitting its name, the LX 570 Sport is fitted with Performance Dampers at the front axle, enhancing the body rigidity of the luxury SUV, and therefore offering better handling and stability, all without sacrificing the overall comfort of the vehicle according to Lexus.
As for safety, the new full-sized luxury SUV is fitted as standard with the improved Lexus Safety System Plus (LSS+) suite of advanced driver assistance features, which now includes the Pre Collision System autonomous emergency braking feature, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, as well as Lane Departure Alert, in addition to the existing blind-spot monitoring and rear-cross traffic alert features. The LX comes with 10 air bags as standard.
The Lexus LX 570 and LX 570 Sport will be fully imported from Japan by Lexus Malaysia, and are priced at
RM1,225,883
 and
RM1,281,938
 respectively, on the road, without insurance, and inclusive of the
sales tax exemptions

in place until the end of the year.
Included in the price is a comprehensive five-year unlimited mileage warranty, with complete aftersales support by Lexus-trained technicians. The Lexus LX 570 and LX 570 Sport are now available for booking at all authorised Lexus Centres across Malaysia.
For the latest updated price list of Lexus models in Malaysia, click
here
.


Next-gen Toyota Vios could debut in Thailand in Q3 2022 – DNGA platform, hybrid engines

The current third-generation
Toyota Vios
 has had a long and successful lifespan, having received multiple iterations since its original debut way back in 2013 to become what it is today. While sales still aren’t slowing down thanks to
recent upgrades to its refinement and equipment list
, nine years is still a very long time, and it’s about time Toyota gave the compact B-segment sedan a full model change.
According to a report by
Headlightmag
, the all-new next-gen Toyota Vios, codenamed D92A, could be unveiled as soon as the third quarter this year, and will be built on the new Daihatsu New Global Architecture (DNGA) platform that also underpins the
Perodua Ativa
 and
Toyota Avanza/Veloz
.
Review: Toyota Vios GR-S – Stimulates the eyes, sedates the soul
The DNGA platform should give the all-new Toyota Vios further enhancements not only in the sense of better ride and handling, but also improvements in refinement and safety. As the platform was also designed with electrification in mind, the Thai publication claims that Toyota will also be offering the all-new Vios with a hybrid powertrain, putting it head-to-head directly against the
all-new Honda City RS e:HEV
.
Daihatsu’s e-Smart Hybrid system
The next-gen hybrid Toyota Vios is also said to feature a Toyota Hybrid System II (THS-II) powertrain, pairing a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine to an electric motor, as opposed to the
Daihatsu Rocky’s e-Smart series-hybrid system
, where the 1.2-litre engine mostly functions as a generator.
Of course, regular non-electrified powertrains will still be available, although chances are it’ll still be equipped with the existing naturally-aspirated engines – depending on region, 1.2 litre in Thailand and 1.5-litre in Malaysia – rather than the downsized turbocharged mills as previously rumoured.
As for how the D92A Toyota Vios will look, the report says that inspiration will be taken from the Daihatsu DN F-Sedan concept car that made its debut at the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) back in 2017.
The Daihatsu DN F-Sedan takes on a somewhat fastback-like shape, with a silhouette that very much resembles that of the Tesla Model 3 – just smaller. Of course, don’t expect the actual production car to carry over the entire design wholesale, but even if it only extracts a little of the concept’s essence, we think it’ll already be a proper looker.


Mitsubishi Outlander is What Car? magazine’s most reliable large SUV

The
Mitsubishi Outlander
 has just been voted as the most reliable large SUV according to What Car? Magazine’s 2017 Reliability Survey. The survey, which involves in-depth interviews with owners themselves, saw the Outlander, both the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and diesel variants, scored highly in all aspects.
Over 14,200 owners were involved in the survey, spanning
32 brands
 and
169 different

models
. What Car? interviewed owners if they experienced any faults in the past 12 months which were classified into
 14 groups
 –  battery, bodywork, brakes, engine, engine electrics, exhaust, exterior lights, fuel system, gearbox/clutch, interior trim, non-engine electrics, steering, suspension and others. For each aspect, owners then revealed how long and what were the cost involved for the repair to be done.
Compared to its rivals including those from premium brands, the Outlander emerged as top spot in its category with under 10 percent of examples experienced a fault. Of the vehicles affected,
all were fixed under warranty
 and almost
75 percent
 of the faults were rectified in under a day.
Consumer Editor, What Car? Magazine, Claire Evans said: “Less than 10 per cent of Outlanders suffered a fault, and 75 per cent were fixed in less than a day.”
The
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Juro
 has been the UK’s bestselling PHEV for three years running – with over 30,000 units on UK roads today. Closer to home, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) has two variants of the Outlander on sale – a
fully imported from Japan 2.4-litre petrol
 and a
locally-assembled 2.0-litre petrol
. Watch what GC Mah and our former colleague, Matthew thinks of the Outlander against its closest rival here:


Malaysia-bound Toyota bZ4X launched in Indonesia – FWD, 516 km range

After Thailand, Indonesia has welcomed the all-electric
Toyota bZ4X
 to their shores. Just yesterday, the bZ4X was launched in Indonesia in one variant, with a price of Rp. 1,190,000,000 (approx.
RM356,011
).
Compared to the also-single-variant version launched in Thailand, Indonesia’s bZ4X is front-wheel drive (FWD) with an electric motor making
204 hp
 (metric) and
266 Nm
. The Thai market gets the all-wheel drive (AWD) version that makes 218 hp (metric) and 337 Nm. Equipped with the same
71.4-kWh
 battery pack, the FWD bZ4X has a
516-km range
 (WLTP), more than the AWD bZ4X’s 460-km range (WLTP).
As you may already know, the bZ4X is built on Toyota’s e-TNGA architecture. Measuring 4,690 mm in length, 1,860 mm in width, 1,650 in height, and with a 2,850 mm wheelbase, the Toyota bZ4X is about the size of a
Proton X70
 (4,519 mm length, 1,831 mm width, 1,694 mm height, and 2,670 mm wheelbase). An EV contender about this size that will soon be available in Malaysia is the BYD Atto 3.
As for charging, the bZ4X can handle
6.6-kW AC
 charging and
150-kW
 DC Fast Charging (DCFC). Toyota says that it only takes
30 minutes
 to charge to 80% from 0 with 150-kW DCFC. The battery comes with an 8-year/160,000 km warranty and Toyota assures that the battery will still have 90% of its storage capacity after 10 years.
In Indonesia, the bZ4X is the first electric vehicle (EV) by Toyota and it completes the brand’s electrified offering in the country. Already in its Indonesian lineup are mild-hybrid electric vehicles (MHEV) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV).
On the outside, the bZ4X features a hammerhead shark-like shape in front, piloting the styling of Toyota’s bZ series. The China-exclusive
Toyota bZ3 sedan
 sports a similar fascia.
RELATED:
New ‘EV Corolla’ Toyota bZ3 unveiled with 600+ km range, for China only
On the inside, the bZ4X gets a 12.3-inch touchscreen head unit with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity. Toyota Indonesia says the bZ4X is the first electric car in Indonesia to feature an advanced parking assist system. It also gets the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) 3.0 advanced safety assistance system.
Over in Malaysia,
UMW Toyota Motor
 has already installed several new chargers at its headquarters. Previously, registration of interest has been open for the all-electric
Lexus RZ
, the bZ4X’s luxurious counterpart. Bound for Malaysia, the bZ4X in its FWD version with 516 km of range (WLTP) sounds more appealing than the AWD version.


GALLERY: Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid, est. RM137k to be launched 14th January

We’ve recently returned from a trip to Penang in the
new Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid
with some pictures and some rather interesting information to share about the crossover. It’s expected to be priced at an
estimated RM137k

and will be
launched

this Fri
day

(14th of January) at 9 pm.
RELATED: Full range of CKD Toyota Corolla Cross to come
with
LED headlamps and DRLs
For the most part, the car looks nearly identical to the standard 1.8 model except for a few minor differences on the interior and exterior. On the outside, the Corolla Cross Hybrid variant comes with blue details by the front and rear badge and in the headlamps.
Standard exterior features include full LED lighting including the front and rear fog lamps, roof rails and hands-free powered tailgate with kick sensor. The wheels are 18-inch in size, just like the 1.8V variant.
Inside, features offered exclusive in the hybrid variant includes dual zone air conditioning, electrochromic mirrors, floor mats with blue details, and a larger 7-inch multi-information display. In the non-hybrid variant, you get a 4.2-inch display instead.
Also available exclusively in the hybrid variant is the drive mode selector; offering four different drive modes – Sport, Eco, Normal and EV. There are three USB ports – one at the infotainment system, and two USB-C ports at the rear.
As for the trip Penang, we flagged off from UMQ Toyota’s HQ in Shah Alam with a full tank of petrol, that offered around 600 km of range. Upon arrival in Teluk Bahang, Penang, we clocked
7.6L/100 km
, with about a quarter tank of fuel and 90 km range left to go.
Quite impressive when you conside that the Corolla Cross Hybrid comes with a tiny 36-litre fuel tank, to accomodate the hybrid system’s batteries. The standard 1.8 variants – the 1.8V and 1.8G – comes with a 47-litre tank. Boot space fortunately is unaffected at 440-litres, similar to the non-hybrid models.
Speaking of the batteries, it comes with an 8-year unlimited mileage warranty. The warranty also extends to the inverter unit and the power management control ECU.
As for the powertrain, the Corolla Cross Hybrid is powered by a 1.8-litre engine with 98 hp and 142 Nm, paired to an electric motor with 72 hp and 163 Nm. The combo is paired to an e-CVT gearbox, with a
combined output of 122 hp
.
More details to come soon!
RELATED: Toyota Corolla Cross GR Sport now available in Thailand, only with 122 hp hybrid
GALLERY


Pos Malaysia: Road tax and driving licence renewals only by appointment

Following
last week’s announcement
 by the Road Transport Department (JPJ) on the new deadline for expired road tax (Lesen Kenderaan Motor) and driving licences, Pos Malaysia has released details on the process of renewals at their premises.
As Pos Malaysia is expecting a surge in traffic for the renewals of the said driving documents, the offices will not be handling walk-in customers, instead, move to an online appointment booking system. Customers will need to find their preferred post office, time slot here and then make the appointment. Click
here
 to access the booking site.
A customer is permitted to only book one appointment slot per day and perform a maximum transaction per appointment.
We tried to access the booking system earlier but seems to be no slots available for the month of August. Hopefully it is signs of the system not online yet rather than all slots fully taken up.
Last week, the JPJ announced that they will no longer be extended the deadline of September 30th for vehicle owners and drivers with expired road tax and all licences. The JPJ, together with the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) are also scheduled to perform enforcement activities on the roads
from October 1st
.
Here are the latest updates on

movement and travel restrictions, beginning August 10th
.
The JPJ also reminds vehicle owners that renewals to be done online through their
MySikap
 portal as well as
MyEG
. All transactions that are not available to be performed online can only be done via
appointments
. Walk-ins will not be entertained. Renewal of the road tax can also be done at self-service kiosks at JPJ offices, which also require an appointment.
For those who with expire road tax, please ensure your vehicle is covered with valid insurance and bring along the “e-cover note” while driving with an expired road tax slip still in the car.
Source:
Pos Malaysia


Look how sexy is the 2019 BMW i8 Formula E Safety Car

BMW i has been
supplying Formula E’s Safety Car since day 1 of the sport and the BMW i8 Coupe
will hit the race tracks with a new livery.
Penned by Head of
Design BMW Motorsport, Michael Scully, the 2019 livery underlines the relationship
of the i8 Safety Car and the BMW iFE.18 race cars with its iconic blue and
white elements of the BMW logo. The purple highlights the natural colours of the
element that powers the race cars – raw electricity.
Formula E vs
Formula 1
The i8 Coupe features some bespoke BMW M components to cope with the demands of motor racing, these include a rear wing and rear hatch made of carbon fibre, a front splitter, sports seats from the
BMW M4 GTS
, four-point harness, a roof-mounted signal light system, BMW M carbon ceramic brakes and a sports chassis.
The standard BMW i8 – which you can
purchase one
brand
 new from BMW Malaysia
 – is powered by a 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine supplemented with an electric motor to put a combined output of
374 hp
onto all-four-wheels. Thanks to a larger lithium-ion battery pack, pure electric driving is now up to 55 km from 35 km previously.
IMAGE GALLERY
BMW i8 Coupe Formula E Safety Car


ICE-powered Porsche Macan likely to be killed in 2024

The
fully-electric Porsche Macan
 hasn’t even been announced yet, but the fossil-fuel powered SUV is already on the chopping block, with only a few years left in its life before Porsche pulls the proverbial plug.
No, this isn’t some wild speculation or rumour started by an overzealous online blog. Rather, the news came straight from the mouth of Macan product boss Sebastian Staiger. In an interview with
Autocar UK
, Staiger said that the ICE-powered Macan will likely be replaced completely by the all-new electric version in just three years’ time.
When probed further on the purported switchover date, Staiger said: “Today, no final decision has been taken, but we assume that 2024 will be the year.”
And the reason? Well – one of them, at least, is of course our old friend carbon emissions. “There are several limiting factors in a vehicle project. One of these factors, of course, is legislation. Emission laws are another limiting factor,” Staiger explained.
The fully-electric Porsche Macan has already been “caught” on public roads. Check out the photos here.
The strict Euro7 emissions regulations are set to come into effect in 2025 in europe, making it potentially unviable for carmakers to continue making fossil fuel-powered vehicles – especially high performance models.
Couple that with new ICE cars being outlawed completely from 2030 onwards in several countries, and the decision becomes even more straightforward for Porsche.
Research suggests that EVs might become cheaper than ICE cars by 2027. Read more about the study here!
As for the EV Porsche Macan, it’ll most likely be revealed at some point next year, and go on sale in 2023. It will be the first electric model to be built on the new Premium Platform Electric architecture (PPE) jointly developed by Porsche and Audi, with the latter’s Q6 E-Tron also to arrive sometime next year.
The PPE platform was first previewed on the
Audi A6 e-Tron concept
 at the Shanghai Auto Show this year.
Not much technical information has been revealed just yet, but Porsche said that it’ll be built on the same 800-volt electrical architecture as the Taycan, and promises to be the “sportiest model in its segment.”
The PPE platform allows for longer ranges (supposedly “significantly more” than the Taycan), and supports fast charging of up to 350 kW, plus repeatable performance figures.
Thailand is phasing out combustion engines, pushing to have only new EVs in 2035. Learn more here.
If you’re still thinking about a petrol-powered Macan, there probably isn’t a better time to walk into the Porsche showroom than right now. The Macan range was only
recently updated
with minor visual tweaks inside and out, plus performance upgrades across the board with the 2.9-litre V6 biturbo engine in the range-topping GTS variant now making
440 hp
 and
550 Nm
 of torque.


Facts & Figures: 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class launched in Malaysia – C 200 and C 300 – from RM288k

The highly-anticipated
all-new 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W206)
 has just been unveiled here in Malaysia. Offered in two variants – C 200 Avantgarde and C 300 AMG Line – at launch, the all-new compact sedan will be fully imported for the time being, priced from RM288,334 on-the-road, without insurance, and inclusive of the SST exemptions until the 30th of June 2022.
C 300 AMG Line
C 200 Avantgarde
EXTERIOR
On the outside, the all-new Mercedes-Benz C-Class features a completely new design language, in line with the marque’s other latest models, including the
 all-new S-Class
 and
facelift E-Class
. The two models are differentiated by their exterior trims – the entry-level C 200 comes with the Avantgarde exterior package, while the range-topping C 300 is equipped with the sportier AMG Line trim.
In terms of standard features, the two variants are equipped as such:
Mercedes-Benz C 200 Avantgarde
Avantgarde exterior package
LED High Performance headlights with adaptive high-beam assist
Fully-LED tail lights
18-inch five-spoke alloy wheels
Lowered comfort suspension
Mercedes-Benz C 300 AMG Line
AMG Line exterior package
Mercedes-Benz pattern grille
19-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels
LED High Performance headlights
Panoramic sliding sunroof
PERFORMANCE
The all-new Mercedes-Benz C-Class in Malaysia is offered with an all-new powertrain line-up, both now equipped with a 48V mild hybrid Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) motor.
Mercedes-Benz C 200 Avantgarde
Engine: 1,496 cc, turbocharged inline-four, petrol; 48V mild-hybrid ISG motor
Transmission: 9G-Tronic automatic
Driveline: Front engine, rear-wheel driven
Max horsepower: 204 hp @ 5,800 – 6,100 rpm + 20 hp from electric motor
Max torque: 300 Nm @ 1,800 – 4,000 rpm + 200 Nm from electric motor
0-100 km/h: 7.3 seconds
Top speed: 246 km/h
Mercedes-Benz C 300 AMG Line
Engine: 1,999 cc, turbocharged inline-four, petrol; 48V mild-hybrid ISG motor
Transmission: 9G-Tronic automatic
Driveline: Front engine, rear-wheel driven
Max horsepower: 258 hp @ 5,800 rpm + 27 hp from electric motor
Max torque: 400 Nm @ 2,000 – 3,200 rpm + 200 Nm from electric motor
0-100 km/h: 6 seconds
Top speed: 250 km/h
C 200 Avantgarde
C300 AMG Line
INTERIOR
Much like its exterior, the cabin of the all-new Mercedes-Benz C-Class has also been completely reworked, headlined by the new portrait-oriented infotainment screen at the centre of the dashboard. In terms of standard equipment, the interior appointments are mostly shared between the two variants, including:
12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
11.9-inch portrait-oriented central touchscreen infotainment display
All-new MBUX operating system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, built-in Spotify and Apple Music
Fingerprint scanner
Wireless charging pad
Artico man-made leather upholstery
Powered comfort front seats with memory function, 4-way lumbar support
Automatic climate control system
Ambient lighting
Augmented-reality navigation
The range-topping Mercedes-Benz C 300 AMG Line variant however stands out with extra AMG Line goodies, including a sportier flat-bottom steering wheel, Sports seats, a variant-exclusive metal weave trim, and AMG floor mats.
SAFETY
Both variants of the all-new Mercedes-Benz C-Class in Malaysia are equipped with advanced driver assistance features as standard, including:
Active Lane Keeping and Lane Tracking Assist
Active Blind Spot Assist
Active Brake Assist
Active Parking Assist with Parktronic
The range-topping C 300 AMG Line does however stand out with an additional 360-degree surround-view camera (reversing camera on C 200).
PRICING
The all-new Mercedes-Benz C-Class will be fully imported at launch, with local assembly operations planned for the second half of 2022 (currently after the expiry of the SST exemptions). The all-new compact sedan is priced from:
Mercedes-Benz C 200 Avantgarde
 – RM288,334
Mercedes-Benz C 300 AMG Line
 – RM330,681
Both figures above are on-the-road prices, without insurance, and inclusive of the 5% SST exemptions (for imported CBU models) until the 30th of June 2022. Also included in the price is a 2+2 year unlimited-mileage warranty.
GALLERY
Mercedes-Benz C 200 Avantgarde
Mercedes-Benz C 300 AMG Line


SDAC-Ford launches ‘Service Relief Promotion’ – 20% savings on vehicle service and parts

Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC), the sole distributor of Ford vehicles in Malaysia, today announced the ‘Service Relief Promotion’ campaign offering savings and peace of mind to its customers during these challenging times. The campaign runs from
today until July 30
.
Customers making a service appointment at any Ford authorised service centres during the campaign period can benefit from discounts of up to
20% on selected OEM parts
, as well as
timing belt and lubricant packages
. Additionally, SDAC Ford is also offering a
10% discount on the labour fee
 on said packages.
If your Ford vehicle is not due for service yet, you can still take advantage of the
complimentary 27-point vehicle inspection
, conducted by Ford-certified technicians at all authorised service centres to ensure your vehicles are in tip-top conditions.
SDAC Managing Director, Syed Ahmad Muzri Syed Faiz said, “We always aim to deliver value-added benefits and services to our customers. People still need to go about their day-to-day activities in this time of uncertainties and we hope these savings will help lighten their load.”
For customers unable to make a warranty service appointment due to the
Movement Control Order
, SDAC-Ford is offering a grace period until June 30 for customers to schedule an appointment with any authorised Ford service centres to keep their warranties intact.
To book an appointment, customers can either contact their preferred outlets directly, use the online booking form
here
, or by calling the SDAC Customer Care Hotline at
1300 38 3181
.
SDAC-Ford recently also introduced the Ford Ranger FX4 on our local soil. Check out the detailed facts and figures
here on our launch article
.


Porsche 911 GT3 RS’ new 6:49.328 Nürburgring lap proves that NA still matters in a turbo world

Porsche has just recorded a new lap time on the Nürburgring Nordschleife with the
911 GT3 RS
 in the hands of Porsche brand ambassador and development driver Jörg Bergmeister. The all-new track-focused supercar crossed the finish line in
6:49.328 minutes
, and although it’s not a new lap record by any means, it still managed to beat the current,
“regular” GT3
by a whopping 10.6 seconds.

The sub-seven-minute time places the new Porsche 911 GT3 RS in third place in its class (Sports cars), behind the much more powerful
 GT2 RS
and – stingingly – the
Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series
. But despite the relatively slower lap time, Porsche says they were still satisfied with the car’s performance.
RELATED:
Porsche beats Mercedes-Benz’s Nürburgring record with 911 GT2 RS
Porsche Director of GT cars, Andreas Preuninger said, “Today the 911 GT3 RS delivered what it had already promised at first glance – absolute excellence on the racetrack. Considering the far from ideal conditions, with a strong headwind on the long straight of the Döttinger Höhe and cool asphalt temperatures, we are satisfied with this time.
“The 911 GT3 RS is setting new standards for aerodynamics and the chassis. Never before has a road car embodied so much motorsport.”
Unlike the two other cars on the leaderboard podium, the Porsche 911 GT3 RS still believes in the purest form of propulsion, with the 4.0-litre rear-mounted flat-six engine foregoing any sort of forced induction. Despite being naturally-aspirated, the engine still pumps out an impressive
 525 hp
 while it revs all the way up to a glorious 9,000 rpm.
The all-new 911 GT3 RS’ pièce de résistance, however, is its incredible aerodynamics. Thanks to the new adjustable aero appendages, the track-focused supercar is able to achieve a total downforce of 860 kg at 285 km/h – three times as much as a standard 911 GT3. At the straights, the new rear wings can also be opened up a la Formula 1’s DRS system, reducing drag to raise the car’s top speed.
For the recorded lap, the Porsche 911 GT3 RS was equipped with the Weissach package, alongside the super sticky Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tyres. All of these additions are available as options to the customers, and is therefore valid for the official timing board – an official was present to check and verify the cars and lap times.
“We lost a little downforce due to the strong, sometimes gusting wind, but I’m still very happy with the lap,” says Bergmeister. “In the fast sections in particular, the 911 GT3 RS is in a league of its own. Here it’s on a level usually reserved for top-class racing cars. The car is also setting new standards in braking. Fast laps on the Nordschleife are simply so much fun in this car.”
ALSO WATCH:
Watch the all-new BMW M4 Competition blitz through the Nurburgring in 7:30 minutes
Vice President for the 911 and 718 model lines, Frank Moser, was following the action from the pit wall: “I’m incredibly proud of what the whole team has achieved during the development and testing of the new 911 GT3 RS. Today Jörg Bergmeister brought everything together and unleashed the car’s full potential. The 911 can still surprise us and proves that the rear engine concept is still supremely suitable for high-performance sports cars.”
GALLERY


Video: Driving from KL to Phuket with EVO Enduro 2019!

We thoroughly enjoyed our time at the
first
 and
second
 edition of the Evo Enduro hosted by our friends over at Aurizn Malaysia but unfortunately have to sit out on this year’s drive to Phuket, Thailand. However, that didn’t stop GC Mah from soaking in the hype at the KL flag-off ceremony.

Evo Enduro 2019 saw over 80 cars started their journey from Kuala Lumpur heading up North to Phuket, Thailand, enjoying the passion for cars and driving with fellow like-minded petrolheads. The convoy is made up of a mad mix of cars from classics like Mini Moke to JDM legends like the Honda S2000 and everything in between.
By the time the group returns to home base in Kuala Lumpur, their cars would’ve clocked over 2,000 km throughout the journey.


The new Volvo XC40 earns the 2018 European Car of the Year award

Volvo’s latest and smallest SUV, the XC40
 has been named the 2018 European Car of the Year – the first win of this prestigious award for Volvo Cars.
“Winning this award with our new XC40 is perfect timing,” said President and CEO of Volvo Cars, Håkan Samuelsson. “Volvo now has three globally available SUVs in its range for the first time. The XC40 will be a strong contributor to further growth, taking us into a new and fast-growing small SUV segment.”
Early orders for the new XC40 have been
 in excess of 20,000 cars
 across Europe and the US, indicating its positive appeal. The XC40 roll-out will soon extend to China, where Volvo is expecting similar strong interest.
The XC40 is the first model built on Volvo Car’s Compact Modular Vehicle Architecture (CMA), which will be the basis for upcoming cars in the 40 Series, including fully electrified vehicles.

The XC40 is the first Volvo with a car-sharing feature, via Volvo’s digital key technology which will allow owners to share their car without handing over the physical key. The XC40 also launched Volvo Car’s new subscription service, Care by Volvo, which offers access to their cars via a monthly flat-fee subscription rather than ownership.
Safety and driver assistance systems on the XC40 include Volvo Cars’ Pilot Assist system, City Safety, Run-off Road Protection and Mitigation, Cross Traffic Alert with Brake Support and the 360° Camera that helps drivers park in tight spaces.
The XC40 is possibly most well-known for its ingenious interior design and storage ideas with more storage space in the doors and under the seats, a slot for phones for inductive charging and a removable dustbin in the tunnel console.
In 2017, the company announced its commitment to electrify all Volvo Cars launched from 2019. In line with this leadership position in electrification, a hybridised as well as a pure electric powertrain option for the XC40 will be added later.
IMAGE GALLERY


Lexus can now customise a car specifically for you through your saliva

Lexus seemed to have gone to extremely extreme lengths to make sure that your Lexus is built with specifications specially for you and you only – ensuring that your car is as genetically-exclusive as your individual DNA.
Enter the
Lexus Genetic Select
 – the world’s first service that uses human genetics to custom tailor the specifications of a car to suit your driving style, behaviour and even personal characteristics. All it takes is a little spit of your saliva and the system will be able to tell if you’re prone to backaches hence requiring more lumbar support and padding for your seats, for instance.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fuDYKljzcZE
It can even tell if your skin is more sensitive to UV rays so as to provide better tinting or if your eyes need prescriptive windscreens for better vision. Best part is, you don’t even need to push a button to start your car anymore!
Sure it sounds far fetched but in this day and age, with technological advancements beyond our wildest imaginations, this is without the next step in car customisation to the very detailed requirements of a human’s specific needs.
But there’s a giveaway; and it “lies” at the end of the video.


First Impressions: Michelin Pilot Sport 4, as good as road tyres can get

The Michelin Pilot Sport 3 (PS3) tyre has garnered tremendous fanfare over the years, both by driving enthusiasts and casual drivers alike. Due to its superb grip and handling capabilities in both wet and dry conditions, the PS3 has become the tyre of choice for those who value safety and lap times.
The new Michelin Pilot Sport 4 is said to be inspired from Formula E tyres, which makes it difficult to imagine just how much better road tyres can be. Michelin invited us to push their latest flagship tyres to the limits at the Setia Alam Convention Centre carpark.
Michelin prepared two courses, a slalom-to-wet braking and a gymkhana course where we pitted the PS4 against its closest rival, the Bridgestone Potenza Adrenaline RE003. For the purposes of a controlled experiment, Michelin has prepared two identical C 200 Coupe and two BMW F30 320d for each of the courses. Naturally, a C 200 will be fitted with the PS4, and the other, the RE003. Once I got into the car, four beautiful words came through the radio: “Gentlemen, start your engines”.
First up is the slalom to wet braking course with Michelin PS4s equipped. The road conditions were
perfect
. Not in a freshly paved, smooth tarmac way, but with plenty of unevenness and undulations – just about as good as Malaysian roads can get. The course was also deliberately soaked with running water and was full of potholes and loose gravel.
Through the slalom course, immediately the PS4 inspired great confidence. Yanking the steering through dry, wet and even loose patches of the course, the PS4 provided high and most importantly consistent grip. I believe that the tyres will fare extremely well in our ever changing road conditions. In comparison, the RE003 requires me to pay more attention to control the car as the tyre starts to unsettle in the wet.
The PS4’s wet performance came to the spotlight during the wet braking course. A full braking from 80km/h across a pile of water may seem like a scary ordeal at first, but the PS4 sliced through the water and clipped onto the road like a leech, stopping the Merc in no time. The same can’t be said for the RE003 as the coupe dives straight past for 2 additional meters. How’s that for a comparison? Next up is the gymkhana course in a
400 Nm
 BMW 3-Series. I can’t wait.
Off the line, the PS4 and RE003 feel identical. Come first corner however, it’s a whole different story. The PS4 sticks onto the tarmac as if I was cornering on rails, while the RE003 nips around like a playful cat. As I approach the wet section, I had difficulty putting the power down on the Bridgestones, prompting me to modulate the throttle to keep the car in check. Whereas with the Michelins, all I had to do was to slam the throttle as if I was on dry tarmac and the car was perfectly stable with tons of grip. To say I am overwhelmed is an understatement. The PS4 is truly as responsive as you are.
IS THIS TYRE FOR YOU?
If safety is your utmost priority, the PS4 would serve you well by offering consistent grip rain or shine. For enthusiasts, if you require a high performance tyre without having to venture into semi-slicks territory, the PS4 is arguably one of the best high performance road tyres there is.
However, if you are one of those few (like yours truly) that value driving engagement and fun a little bit more than bettering lap times, the tyre that would get your Adrenaline pumping is the RE003.
If I were to summarise the two tyres in one sentence – PS4 for ultimate lap times on track; RE003 for ultimate smiles on twisty tarmac.
Disclaimer: Both tyres, the Michelin PS4 and Bridgestone Potenza Adrenaline RE003 are brand new, unused tyres.
IMAGE GALLERY


Rolls-Royce says its upcoming Spectre EV will be built to last 400 years

As you are reading this, a heavily camouflaged all-electric
Rolls-Royce
 is enduring a gruesome
2,500,000 km
 test. Unnecessarily gruelling, some may say, the 2.5-million-km test is meant to simulate more than 400 years of usage of the marque’s first all-electric car, the
Rolls-Royce Spectre
.
Not only tasked with this painstaking test, but the Rolls-Royce Spectre also bears the weight of being the first all-electric car by the brand that prides itself as the pinnacle of super-luxury automobiles. Yes, Rolls-Royce has showcased the 102EX and 103EX, but the former was a concept car while the latter was merely a design study.
One of the key highlights of the all-electric Rolls-Royce Spectre is a proprietary smart suspension system that has been confirmed for production. On straight roads, the system can automatically decouple the anti-roll bars, allowing each wheel to act independently. This prevents the rocking motion that occurs when one side of a vehicle hits an undulation in the road. This also dramatically improves high-frequency imperfections in ride caused by smaller, more frequent shortcomings in road surface quality.
RELATED:
Rolls-Royce downsizes ‘Spirit of Ecstasy’ bonnet emblem for EV efficiency
Once a corner is confirmed as imminent by satellite navigation data and the Flagbearer system, the components are recoupled, the suspension dampers stiffen and the four-wheel steering system prepares for activation to ensure effortless entry and exit.
Besides the smart suspension system, the Rolls-Royce Spectre also boasts a 30% increase in rigidity and a 0.25 drag coefficient which makes the Spectre the most aerodynamic Rolls-Royce yet.
RELATED:
Rolls-Royce Wraith Landspeed Collection delivered in Malaysia – 1 of only 35 in the world!
Earlier this year in Arjeplog, Sweden, the Spectre received the first ‘lessons’ in a finishing school that is custom designed to teach the motor car how to behave and react like a Rolls-Royce. Now, it will be driven for 625,000 kilometres on and around the French Côte d’Azur for more formal scrutiny in a location that reflects the motor car’s everyday use.
Split into two phases, the first leg of the test includes irrigation units that create standing water, demanding handling circuits with tight corners and adverse cambers, as well as a heavily banked 3.1-mile three-lane high-speed bowl, enabling the Spectre to be tested at continuous high speeds.
RELATED:
Rolls-Royce Black Badge Ghost in Malaysia from RM1.8 mil, 5 Things
The second phase of testing in the region occurs in the Provençal countryside surrounding the Autodrome de Miramas. This region is enjoyed by many of the marque’s clients, therefore a significant 55% of testing here has taken place on the very roads that many production Spectres will be driven on following first customer deliveries in the fourth quarter of 2023.
Despite the Spectre debuting in 2023, the electrification of the brand has been long prophesied by Charles Rolls. Quoting the marque’s founder, “The electric car is perfectly noiseless and clean. There is no smell or vibration. They should become very useful when fixed charging stations can be arranged.”
The Electric Super Coupé will still be tested for a further one million kilometres before the marque’s engineers will consider this undertaking complete. First customer deliveries of Spectre will commence in the fourth quarter of 2023.


Audi Prologue Avant heading to Geneva, dropping more hints for future Audi design

Audi sure knows how to make a wagon look cool, and the
 Audi Prologue Avant
 is no different. Based on the template set by the
Prologue concept coupe
 that was unveiled at the LA Motor Show in November 2014, the Prologue Avant further hints at the design elements that will be implemented on future models.
Take for example the wider
Singleframe grille
 that stretches across the front accompanied by a pair of
high-resolution Matrix Laser headlamps
,
LED taillights
 at the back that runs across the full width of the car, and the
folded-out shoulders
 above each wheels; they are likely to appear on the upcoming production Audis.
For a vehicle that measures
5.11 meters long
 and almost two meters wide, the Prologue Avant only seats four including the driver. The cabin features
individual seats
, high-tech
flexible OLED touch-sensitive displays
, and the
Audi virtual cockpit
 for the driver.
Unlike the Prologue Concept coupe with a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, the Prologue Avant utilises a hybrid system from the Q7 E-Tron quattro with a
 3.0-litre TDI V6
 and a
100 kW electric motor
 paired to an
8-speed tiptronic
. It produces a combined output of
455 hp
 and
750 Nm
 of torque.
The Prologue Avant is set for its debut at the upcoming
Geneva Motor Show
 this coming March. So what do you guys think? Should Audi stop teasing us with more Prologue concepts and get the car into production?
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IMAGE GALLERY