Nissan signs Margot Robbie as EV ambassador [+Video]

Meet Nissan’s new electric vehicle ambassador – Margot Robbie. Famously known for her role in the Wolf of Wall Street and portraying Harley Quinn in Suicide Squad, the Australian actress solemnised her role by racing the
Nissan BladeGlider
 around Monaco Grand Prix Circuit at midnight.
The BladeGlider is an all-electric prototype capable of producing about
270 hp
 and
708 Nm
 of twisting force. It will sprint from 0 to 100km/h in under five seconds and boasts an incredible top speed of
190km/h
.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HFA0qbBIHJ8
Nissan remains optimistic about the future of electric cars, partially fuelled by the high global demand for the
Nissan Leaf
. The Japanese carmaker also said the adoption rate of electric cars globally are increasing year by year, as more motorists are making a conscious effort to reduce carbon footprint and be part of the “sustainability” movement.
Why Margot Robbie, then? Nissan says her ambassadorial role will support the brand in spreading news of the personal and societal benefits of electric cars to more people than ever before. Well, it sure seems that Nissan is dead serious about their EVs now. Just don’t forget to give us the new GT-R R36, okay?
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Mercedes-Benz E-Class sweeps two more awards, but for how long more?

The Mercedes-Benz W213 E-Class has done it again, bagging two more prestigious awards – ‘Best Executive Car’ and ‘New Company Car of the Year’ titles
after being named as UK Car of the Year 2017
.
Judges praised the E-Class for its low running costs, stylish design and impressive refinement. It’s also indisputably one of the most advanced, if not the most advanced car in its class thanks to a lengthy list of driving assistance systems.
Back at home, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia is offering the E-Class in four trims:
QUICK FACTS
Name
Mercedes-Benz E 200 Avantgarde
Mercedes-Benz E 250 Avantgarde
Mercedes-Benz E 250 Exclusive
Mercedes-Benz E 300 AMG
Engine
1,991cc; in-line 4-cylinder turbocharged
Transmission
9G-TRONIC, 9-speed automatic
Max Power
184 hp @ 5,500 rpm
211 hp @ 5,500 rpm
245 hp @ 5,500 rpm
Max Torque
300 Nm @ 1,200 – 4,000 rpm
350 Nm @ 1,200 – 4,000 rpm
370 Nm @ 1,200 – 4,000 rpm
0 – 100 km/h; Top speed
7.7 seconds; 240 km/h
6.9 seconds; 250 km/h
6.2 seconds; 250 km/h
Price (OTR without insurance)
RM395,888
RM420,888
RM425,888
RM458,888
The company also plans to introduce no less than 17 new models to the market this year, presumably with the
E 63 S
 among the mix. Will we continue to be deprived of the Mercedes-Benz Estates, or will we finally get the
E-Class Estate
 to rival the upcoming
Volvo V90
?
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Mercedes-Benz E 350 e Edition 60 introduced, Malaysia exclusive, 60 units only

“Better late than never” should be what the team at Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) had in mind when they unveiled the Mercedes-Benz E 350 e plug-in hybrid (PHEV) Edition 60. Launched alongside the regular
E 350 e Exclusive and AMG Line
, the Edition 60 was introduced in conjunction with our nations’ 60
th
 Independence Day.
Build upon the regular E 350 e Exclusive, the Edition 60 gets unique interior trims as well as small additional details on the exterior. Priced at RM408,888, the Edition 60 carries a premium of RM13k over the E 350 e AMG Line and is limited to
60 units nationwide
.
QUICK FACTS
Name
Mercedes-Benz E 350 e Exclusive Line
Mercedes-Benz E 350 e AMG Line
Mercedes-Benz E 350 e Edition 60
Engine
1,991cc; four-cylinder turbo petrol
Transmission
9-speed G-Tronic
Max Power
211 hp
Max Torque
350 Nm
Electric Motor
87 hp & 440 Nm
Combined Output
286 hp & 550 Nm
0 – 100 km/h; Top Speed
6.2 seconds; 250 km/h
Price (OTR without insurance)
RM392,888
RM395,888
RM408,888
For that
small
 sum of money, you get ultra-luxurious items such as 19-inch 6-spoke alloy wheels painted in black with high-sheen finish, two-tone (macchiato beige and saddle brown) Designo Nappa leather upholstery, Designo Piano lacquer trim, light brown ash wood trims on the centre console, Designo floor mats and high-gloss white painted vehicle key.

Mechanically it retains the 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol and electric motor combo. All
286 hp
 and
 550 Nm
 of twisting force gets sent to the rear wheels via a nine-speed G-Tronic automatic. Sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h takes
6.2 seconds
 and on full whack it will do
 250 km/h
. Fuel economy is rated at
2.1 L/100 km
.
Like the rest of the E 350 e family, the Edition 60 is also locally assembled right here in Pekan, Pahang. Demonstrating the company’s capabilities to locally produce high-quality and desirable limited-edition products for the Malaysian market.
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New Proton Saga Anniversary Edition comes with a “smiley face” inside!

Proton
 has launched the new Saga Anniversary Edition, based on the
range-topping Premium AT variant
, to celebrate 35 years of the Proton Saga which was first introduced in 1985.
The Anniversary Edition is limited to 1,100 units and doesn’t come with mechanical upgrades and is limited to aesthetics. It still utilises the same 1.3-litre engine with
95 hp
 and
120 Nm
, paired to a 4-speed automatic.
Available only in black, which are not offered in the standard models, the Anniversary Edition is available with yellow side mirrors and a yellow strip on the front grille, front lip, side skirts, and on the rear bumper.
Don’t get to excited just yet. Interestingly, the front lip and side skirts are OPTIONAL items. It’s surprising that they didn’t try to sell special addition emblems for the Anniversary addition. If you want the complete buffet package, which includes the front lip, side skirts, door visors, a front bonnet insulator, trunk lid cover and boot tray, it’ll cost you
RM2,035
.
If you choose to purchase these items separately, which is compatible with the 2019 facelift Saga, it’ll cost you RM315 extra for a total of RM2,350. The “standard” Anniversary Edition is priced at RM39,300, similar to the Proton Saga Premium AT variant. The
price of the Premium AT variant was reduced by RM500
 after the
Sales Tax Exemption
 announcement.
On the inside, is there it gets a little comical. We’d like to think Proton was exercising some form of humour here with the yellow trims on the centre air con vents and centre console storage. Doesn’t it look like a smiley face to you? How can you not giggle every time you look at it?

The Saga Anniversary Edition will also come with Proton’s N95 Cabin Filter, previously only available on the X70. As for the other models in the Proton range, here’s the
latest price list
 after the Sales Tax Exemption.
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The Mercedes-Benz EQC will change the way you see electric vehicles

At the recent launch of the
new S560e
, Mercedes Benz Malaysia also took to stage the
new Mercedes-Benz EQC
 as the first fully-electric production vehicle by the three-pointed star made its first appearance in South East Asia.
Expected to arrive in the
second quarter of 2020
, the EQC offers perhaps the first glimpse into the world of electric mobility and from first impressions at least, we might not miss fossil fuel-powered vehicles as much as we think we would.
The front-wheel biased SUV based loosely on the GLC, is powered by two electric motors; one to move the front wheels and the other the rear. The pair dishes out a total of
402 hp
 and
756 Nm
.
Despite the vast output of silent performance, 0 to 100 km/h takes an uninspiring 5.1 seconds – mainly due to the electric SUVs 2,495kg weight – with top speed limited to just 180 km/h.
The EQC’s driving range however does seem promising; rated at
over 400 km/h
although it remains to be seen how the electric SUV would fare in real world conditions under the “extreme abuse” by the right foot of Malaysia’s elite.
And you’d have to be one to even think of seeing one parked in your porch cause this heap of metal is expected to cost upwards of RM600k!
Despite being Mercedes-Benz’s first fully-electric production vehicle, it still does the same things and offer a few features familiar to Mercedes-Benz such as the MBUX voice command system, pre-entry climate control, dual touch screen displays and the exquisite Burmester sound system.
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2023 Range Rover Sport SV debuts with limited SV Edition One – 635hp, V8 Twin turbo

Land Rover

has just introduced its most powerful
Range Rover
 ever – the Range Rover Sport SV. This new performance SUV will continue the legacy of the brand’s
Range Rover Sport SVR
 which was first introduced in 2014.
Featuring an airflow-enhanced exterior, according to Land Rover, the Range Rover Sport SV front-end is reprofiled and is equipped with a carbon fibre bonnet with vents, as well as side vents. The performance SUV is also decorated with front bumper blades and carbon fibre-tipped quad tailpipes, showcasing its sporty identity.
As standard, the Range Rover SV is specified with mixed-metal dual-cast brakes. However, customers are also given a choice to upgrade to the Brembo carbon ceramic brakes with eight-piston SV callipers as an option. This upgrade not only provides improved braking performance, but is also more resistant to high temperatures, and has a longer lifespan. Compared to the dual-cast iron brake discs found on the Range Rover SVR, the Brembo carbon ceramic brakes with eight-piston SV callipers also contribute to a total of 34 kg of unsprung weight reduction.
Out of the factory, the SV comes with Michelin Sport All Season 4 tyres. And for the first time on a Range Rover, the rear of the SV is fitted with 305-section tyres, 20mm wider than the 285-section front tyres. This is done to enable a rear-biased dynamic setup to enhance grip, stability and traction, Land Rover says.
RELATED:
2023 Range Rover L460 launched in Malaysia, from RM1.268m before tax
The Range Rover SV is the world’s first production car to be fitted with 23-inch carbon fibre wheels, as claimed by the British carmaker. By choosing to use carbon fibre wheels on the performance SUV, Land Rover has helped save a total of 35.6 kg, as compared to using conventional 23-inch cast-alloy wheels, according to the company.
Besides the carbon fibre wheels, the hydraulic interlinked 6D Dynamics air suspension with pitch and roll control found on the British performance SUV is also a world’s-first. Benefits of this suspension setup include the capability to maintain a near-level stance during extreme acceleration, braking, and cornering.
The new British performance SUV comes with specially developed chassis components. This includes a new rear subframe and new suspension links with revised geometry and compliance.
Powering the world’s most powerful Range Rover is a BMW-sourced 4.4-litre Twin-Turbo V8 petrol engine, and is mated with an eight-speed automatic transmission and a 48V mild-hybrid (MHEV) system. The performance SUV’s powertrain outputs a total of
635 hp
 (metric) and
750 Nm
 of torque, 60 hp (metric) and 50 Nm more than the previous generation SVR’s supercharged 5.0-litre V8.
Via the car’s new dynamic-optimised SV mode, it takes
3.6 seconds
 to sprint from 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h). Capable of reaching a top speed of
289 km/h
, the brand claims that the SV produces 15% lower CO2 emissions than the SVR’s 575 hp V8 engine.
The SV mode can be activated via a button on the steering wheel. Activating it optimises the steering, transmission, throttle response, exhaust note, as well the 6D Dynamics suspension system. The SV mode can also lower the Range Rover SV’s ride height by an additional 15 mm and allows the track-oriented TracDSC stability control programme to be activated.
The SV mode also tweaks the performance SUV’s All-Wheel Drive (AWD), All-Wheel Steering, Torque Vectoring by Braking, Configurable Dynamics, and Active Locking Rear Differential. This is done to deliver a more sporty driving experience.
RELATED:
2023 Range Rover updated with all-hybrid powertrains – SV gets 615 hp V8 MHEV!
Inside of the Range Rover SV features yet another world’s first, which is a translucent edge-lit gear shift paddle, behind the steering wheel. The gear selector lever is also made of black ceramic to enhance the car’s luxurious feel.
There are also satin carbon fibre-backed SV Performance seats that feature integrated headrests, sculpted bolsters, as well as illuminated SV logos on the backrests. The SV also features an in-car sensory audio technology, known by the brand as Body and Soul Seat (BASS). BASS provides a multi-dimensional audio experience, and the SV is the first production vehicle to incorporate a tactile audio system.
Provided by SUBPAC, BASS has transducers aligned to the front seat occupants’ backs to generate high-fidelity audio to create an immersive in-car audio experience. This system works together with the 29-speaker Meridian Signature Sound System.
The Range Rover SV during its first year of production is only available in the limited edition SV EDITION ONE specification. And not everyone who wants it will be able to buy it straight away, as the performance SUV will only be available for select clients to order via an invitation programme.
RELATED:
Range Rover Velar facelift debuts, P400e gets boosted 64km EV range


These Nissan Skyline R32 tail lights are borderline hypnotic!

This is probably the coolest thing you’ll see today. The Nissan Skyline for the longest time has been identified by two things – the monstrous power it’s capable of making for giant-killing activities and its signature tail lights.
But the guys at Skeptic Innovations and Infinity Illuminations’ had different ideas. They’ve taken the iconic look and injected a dose of hypnotism with what seems like an endless dive into a black hole with this ensemble that completely replaces the original halogen housings.

What’s even cooler is that, aside from projecting various colours and movements without sacrificing the basic functions of a tail light, they can also be controlled with a modified Nintendo controller – seemingly from the same era as the R32 Skyline – talk about bridging the old and new.
In a time and age where JDM legends such as the R32 Skyline are almost unattainable by most mere mortals, forget the car; this tail light assembly will do. What a centre piece it would make in our living rooms.


Automatic Lane Change now available on Mercedes-Benz vehicles in Europe

Previously restricted to cars in the US and Canada,
Mercedes-Benz
 has now announced that the ‘Automatic Lane Change’ (ALC) function will now be also be made available for its customers in Europe, bringing the previously SAE-Level 2 driving assistance features in its cars up to “Level 2+”.
The company is currently working on adapting the function to European traffic situations, with the system officially scheduled to roll out alongside the first deliveries of the
all-new Mercedes-Benz E-Class
.
Mercedes-Benz says that the ALC function is “an integral part” of its adaptive cruise control and active steering assist systems. While driving with both systems activated between speeds of 80-140 km/h, the vehicle can automatically initiate a lane change, and overtake completely all by itself, if it detects a slower vehicle ahead.
With an active route guidance, the system can also assist in navigating exits or changing highways.
RELATED:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate S214 debuts – Brand’s wagon lives on for the fans
Of course, there are still certain limitations and prerequisites for the automatic lane change system. Mercedes-Benz says that the ALC system is only supported on “motorway-like roads” with lane markings and “structurally separated directional lanes”, and the vehicles must also be equipped with the MBUX Navigation package in order to access the function.
Additionally, since it is still classified as a SAE-Level 2 system, the (human) driver is still responsible for the car’s action. As such, Mercedes-Benz requires that the driver’s hands are placed on the steering wheel at all times – even though the car is carrying out the lane change action without driver input.
Mercedes-Benz has been on the forefront of advanced driver assistance features in recent years. Aside from the ALC system, Mercedes-Benz is also notably the world’s first and only marque that has received international approval for its SAE-Level 3 Drive Pilot system.
Already
available in Germany
 and
US
 (California and Nevada), the system allows the driver to hand over driving tasks to the system in certain conditions, particularly in heavy traffic or congestion situations in certain sections of the highways, at speeds of up to 60 km/h.
The company has also received certification for SAE-Level 4 driverless parking, which is
already available for commercial use
 in the Stuttgart airport.


Hyundai Palisade teased on Facebook – official launch in Malaysia soon?

Social media is pretty much all of the social interactions we get these days, especially now that a large chunk of the Klang Valley will be
placed under EMCO starting tomorrow
. And if there’s a carmaker that’s on top of its social media game here in Malaysia, it definitely has to be Hyundai.
After teasing the arrival of
many of its new models via its Facebook page
, it’s now the
 Palisade
 SUV’s turn to make an appearance on Hyundai Sime Darby Motor’s Facebook page, in a post masquerading as a friendly check-in during the MCO stay-at-home period – but we all know that it’s just to tease their upcoming new car… probably (we’re kidding).
The Palisade appearing on Hyundai Malaysia’s Facebook page is nothing to be surprised about. The company already
 confirmed earlier this year
 that the “mid-size” SUV will be making its way over to our country. But aside from that, this is actually the first time the Palisade has been featured in any of their communications. Could this mean that a launch is imminent?
HSDM has already confirmed earlier that the Malaysia-specification Hyundai Palisade will be powered by a naturally-aspirated 3.8-litre V6 petrol engine, which makes an “estimated”
 291 hp
 and
355 Nm
 of torque, paired to an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
Excited? Read more about the Hyundai Palisade here!
That big of an engine should prove useful for such a massive SUV – the biggest in Hyundai’s stable, measuring over 200 mm longer and 80 mm wider than the
 Santa Fe
!
But aside from the engine, there’s really not much information out there just yet on the Malaysian-specification Hyundai Palisade. Will we be getting front-wheel drive only, or all-wheel drive courtesy of Hyundai’s HTRAC AWD system? Only time will tell – but the good thing is we probably don’t have to wait for too long more.
In terms of features, HSDM also only mentioned two in their original announcement: a full-colour head-up display, as well as an “industry-first” roof vent diffuser for the air conditioning system that can provide either a focused, partially-diffused, or fully-diffused stream of air to rear passengers.
However, we expect to see a fairly standard equipment list on the Malaysian Hyundai Palisade, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster for the driver, alongside an eight-inch infotainment display on the floating panel above the dashboard – the latter upgradeable to a 10.25-inch unit in global markets.
510 litres of cargo space, even with the third-row seats up.
The Hyundai SafetySense advanced driver assistance system is also standard on the global Palisade, so it’s hopeful to see it included on the Malaysian-spec model too.
HSDM’s new Click to Buy website lets you book a new Hyundai for only RM300! Check it out here.
The suite includes features such as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA), Lane Following Assist (LFA), Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist, Safe Exit Assist, High Beam Assist, Driver Attention Warning and Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go.
With about six months left to go for the year, plus the teaser on its Facebook page, an official launch shouldn’t be too far away from now – so keep your eyes peeled as we bring you the latest news as soon as we get them!


Updated Toyota C-HR gets Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for 2019

The radical-looking Toyota C-HR crossover has more tricks up its bulging fenders for 2019 with cosmetics tweaks and the incorporation of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for in its infotainment system, while maintaining its retail price of RM150,000.
UMW Toyota Motor has revealed that over 4000 units of the C-HR were sold in 2018 and that for 2019, the C-HR gets a new dual-tone alloy wheel design, new garnish strips on the front and rear bumpers as well as the addition of body moulding along the sides.
For 2019, the C-HR gets a new colour dubbed the Radiant Green Metallic.
If that doesn’t rock your boat sufficiently, you can tack on the optional TRD Aerokit (RM3,990) developed by Toyota’s high-performance division. The aero-kit adds extensions with metallic finishes to the front and rear bumpers and overfenders on the wheel arches, not that the C-HR needed beefing up in the looks department, but you can if you want to.

Perhaps more significantly, the C-HR’s infotainment system is upgraded with a new 6.75-inch touchscreen and comes with Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity – a first for a Toyota model in Malaysia! Yes, you are now able to speak to your car via Siri or Google Assistant.
The 2019 C-HR is the first Toyota model ever to offer Android Auto and Apple CarPlay in Malaysia.
Otherwise, the mechanical package of the C-HR remains unchanged with the a 140hp and 171Nm 1.8-litre four-cylinder providing drive via a 7-speed CVT. Deliveries of the 2019 C-HR is expected to start in February.


Ford Malaysia introduces two new colours for the Ranger Raptor

From 3rd to 7th of April, Sime Darby Auto Connexion will be displaying the
Ford Ranger Raptor
 at Mid Valley Megamall in two new colours – Arctic White and Absolute Black.
Like the
Lighting Blue unit we had for a review
 and as a
tracking car for last year’s (Driver’s) Car of the Year video
, these new colours will be sold alongside the existing Conquer Grey.
The Ranger Raptor is proced at RM199,888 (OTR without insurance). If RM200k sounds like a crazy amount to pay for a glorified pick-up, there’s
eight different variations of the normal Ford Rangers
 to choose from; from as low as RM90k.


Honda Malaysia recalls 93,929 vehicles due to faulty 12V battery

Sometimes, recalls aren’t as bad as they seem. Honda Malaysia announced that some 93,929 cars manufactured and sold between 2003 and 2016 may potentially be fitted with a faulty 12V battery, but the company stressed that no related injuries, crashes or casualties have been reported thus far.
As usual, customers involved in exercises like this will be issued a notification via snail mail which will include all details of the product update. If you’ve gotten yours, be sure to head down to your nearest authorised Honda service centre. If a battery replacement is required, all parts and labour charges
will be borne by Honda Malaysia
; the battery alone costs anywhere between RM200 to RM400.
No Honda HR-Vs are involved in this recall exercise
Those who have yet to receive the notification letter may refer to the table below as a heads up:
Car Model
Year Model
City
2003 to 2014, 2016
Civic
2010, 2012 and 2013
CR-Z
2012 and 2013
CR-V
2013
Freed
2010 to 2012
Insight
2011 to 2013
Jazz
2009, 2012, 2013, 2015 and 2016
Alternatively, you can call Honda Malaysia’s toll-free number at 1-800-88-2020 to check for your vehicle’s status.


Kia EV9 Concept previews a large three-row EV SUV with multi-mode interior

At the ongoing LA Auto Show 2021, Kia is previewing the EV9 Concept after successfully launching the
EV6
 fully electric crossover. The EV9 will be the second model in the brand’s dedicated EV line-up.
The Kia EV9 Concept is definitely a ‘big boy’, measuring close to 5 m long and over 2 m wide, key numbers that are also shared with the
Kia Telluride
,
Hyundai Palisade
,
Mazda CX-9
 as well as other US-only models such as Chevrolet Traverse and Ford Explorer.
Styled under the pillar of ‘Bold for Nature’ of the ‘
Opposite united
‘ design language, the large, rugged and upright stance Kia EV9 Concept doesn’t deviate from the two-box silhouette for maximum space in the three-row fully electric SUV.
The Kia EV6 could be coming to Malaysia, thanks to new distributor Bermaz Auto as well as government incentives. More here!
Up in front, the Kia’s iconic Tiger Face facade has been reinterpreted for the electric era featuring an intricate star cloud pattern that only appears when the vehicle is in use. The intricate pattern also influenced the signature lightings on the front and rear of the Kia EV9 Concept.
The hood meanwhile has motorsport-looking deep vents, but, Kia designers felt with such a huge real estate, they can use the space to house solar charging panels! Why not on the massive roof then? Well, the interior of the Kia EV9 Concept is imagined to be quite the living space for six, emphasising immersion with natural lighting.
The innovative D-pillar design also creates a unique Daylight Opening (DLO) operating in tandem with the panoramic sky roof to add to a sense of lightness, positive impact on wellness and mood and being in contact with the environment.
When parked, the Pause Mode modifies the interior space into a first-class lounge. The second-row seats fold flat and become a table, with the first row rotating 180 degrees and facing the third row. Vegan leather is also featured on the upholstery of the Kia EV9 Concept.
The Enjoy Mode in the Kia EV9 Concept meanwhile swivels the third-row seats to face the outside environment with the tailgate fully open. Occupants can just sit back and soak up the scenery in the comfort of the interior, all-electric without emissions.
Similar to the Kia EV6, the large Kia EV9 Concept will feature the
E-GMP
 fully electric modular platform. The target driving range is modest at 480 kilometres, but charging times are expected to be shorter than the competitors’ thanks to a next-generation ultra-fast charging technology with a 350 kW power, requiring just 30 minutes to replenish the battery level to 80%.
The production model of the Kia EV9 Concept will be one of seven EVs the company plan to introduce by 2026.
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The all-new Mazda BT-50 is a dependable pick-up with a pretty face

Mazda has finally unveiled the all-new third-generation Mazda BT-50 today, through a livestream on its social media pages. Completely redesigned for the first time in nine years, Mazda has now ditched Ford as its OEM provider for the BT-50, instead basing it off the
Isuzu D-Max
.

As expected, the all-new BT-50 features Mazda’s latest Kodo design language, which looks significantly sleeker, and a lot more modern when compared to the outgoing model. The front of the new Mazda pick-up bears a striking resemblance to the brand’s SUV models, such as the
 CX-9
.
At the rear, the BT-50 also gets its own redesigned rear end, which takes off a bit of the “edginess” from the
angry-looking D-Max
. Though to be frank, there aren’t many things at the back of a pick-up truck for the designers to work with to make it stand out from the others.
Don’t let the pretty face fool you, though, because the BT-50 should be pretty robust off the beaten path as well – it’s based on the D-Max after all.
Underneath the hood of the Australian-spec double-cab BT-50 (which made the global debut), you’ll find a 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine, rated for an output of
190 hp
 and
450 Nm
 of torque, paired to an automatic gearbox to power the wheels in either 4×2 or 4×4 configurations.
In this specification, the BT-50 is capable of
 towing up to 3,500 kg
, or carry a
 maximum load of 1,065 kg
. Information is scarce at launch, but we expect the new
1.9-litre turbodiesel
 mill to also make it into the BT-50 in other variants and regions.
Aside from the mechanical underpinnings, the new Mazda BT-50 also inherits the overall dashboard architecture, as well as the infotainment display – which is nine-inch in size, by the way – from the Isuzu D-Max.
However, the rest of the interior decor is all done-up by Mazda themselves, so expect the same

plushy upholstery that we’re now accustomed to seeing in all Mazda models. As they so eloquently put it in the press release themselves, “Mazda developed the BT-50 with the intention of making travel and the time spent inside the vehicle exceptionally pleasant.”
No pricing information has been provided for the all-new Mazda BT-50 just yet, but it will be built in Thailand by Isuzu alongside the D-Max, and is scheduled to go on sale in Australia in “the latter half of 2020”.
IMAGE GALLERY


Replace your illegal aftermarket HID headlamps or risk RM2,000 fine

We’ve all experienced this on the road – a bright white speck with the intensity of a flashbang that blinds your vision for a good few seconds. That’s what happens when irresponsible motorist retrofit HID headlamps that do not meet the specifications and regulations of the vehicle’s type approval.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke has said in parliament that any HID headlamps that are retrofitted as an accessory with brightness intensity that is over the permissible level can affect the vision of other road users, jeopardising their safety.

Under United Nation regulations 48 (UNR48), the brightness intensity of headlamps should not exceed 4,300K. However, there are aftermarket suppliers offering brightness intensities that are over 16,000K. If found guilty, the offender will be charged with an RM2,000 fine or a maximum jail term of not more than six months.
So, unless your aftermarket headlamps are approved by the relevant authorities – i.e. SIRIM certified or received JPJ type approval, you have been warned by the main man himself to get them to revert back to the legal units.


Ora Good Cat named the safest small family car in 2022 Euro NCAP

Not only did the
Ora Good Cat
 score a maximum five stars in the Euro NCAP, it was also named “best-in-class” in the Small Family Car Category of the European safety assessment last year, beating out the likes of the
BMW 2 Series Active Tourer
and
Honda Civic
.
Marketed as the
Funky Cat in the UK
, the Ora EV hatchback scored 92% in adult occupant protection, 83% in child occupant protection, 74% on pedestrian protection, and 93% on safety assist system tests – the latter the highest amongst its competitors in the segment.
As standard, the UK-specification Ora Good Cat comes equipped with adaptive cruise control with lane centring functionality, autonomous emergency braking, rear cross traffic alert with autonomous braking, lane change assist, blind spot detection, and traffic sign recognition.
Back home here in Malaysia, the Ora Good Cat
 made its debut in November
last year with two variants on offer: 400 Pro and 500 Ultra. The numbers are indicative of their fully electric driving range based on the more forgiving NEDC test cycle.
In terms of powertrain, however, both are essentially identical – driving the front wheels is a single electric motor making
105 kW (143 hp)
 and
 210 Nm
of torque, for a 0-100 km/h sprint time of
 7.9 seconds
.
ALSO READ:
GWM Malaysia collects over 100 bookings for Ora Good Cat EV in just three days
Safety wise, both variants of the Ora Good Cat comes equipped with six airbags as standard, alongside a set of advanced driver assistance features consisting of adaptive cruise control with intelligent turning and traffic jam assist, autonomous emergency braking with intersection support, lane keeping and lane centring assist, and a “wisdom dodge” system.
The range-topping 500 Ultra takes it up a notch with extra creature comfort safety and convenience features, including additional front parking sensors, a “full-auto” integrated parking system, auto-reversing assistant, lane-change assist, emergency lane keeping, blind-spot detection, and rear-cross traffic alert and braking.
The Ora Good Cat was not the only Chinese model that made it to the top of the list in last year’s Euro NCAP ratings. The Wey Coffee 01, also from Great Wall Motors, was also named best-in-class in the Large Off-Roader category in 2022.
Other models in the best-in-class list include the
Hyundai Ioniq 6
 in the Large Family Car category,
Tesla Model S
 for the Executive Car category, and
 Model Y
 for the Small Off-Roader respectively.
RELATED:
GWM Malaysia begins deliveries of Ora Good Cat in style


New Toyota Hilux GR Sport 2WD is actually a RWD sports car, in a pick-up body!

Toyota Motor Thailand has just launched the GR Sport variants of the
Toyota Hilux
 pick-up truck. As the company promotes motorsports even with the Hilux, there are two variants of Hilux GR Sport – the regular 4WD variant and the awesome-looking “low-rider” 2WD variant.
The Toyota Hilux GR Sport variants are locally engineered by Toyota Motor Thailand, with credits mentioned to Regional Chief Engineers Dr. Jurachart Jongusuk and Ms. Anyarat Sutthibenjakul. It is the fourth GR product in Thailand after the global GR Sport models of GR Yaris and GR Supra as well as locally-developed Corolla GR Sport.
The most obvious changes to the Toyota Hilux GR Sport are the GR-specific aero kit package, black wheels, side mirrors, and of course, Toyota Gazoo Racing black and red stickers. In the 4WD variant, the black rims are 18-inch items wrapped with regular highway-terrain tyres in 265/60R18 size.
The aero kit on the 4WD variant is also more extensive; with a tasteful black-and-body-coloured grille that has ‘TOYOTA’ spelt out like the
Land Cruiser GR Sport
, side steps, a sports bar in the cargo bed as well as body-coloured wheel arches.
The sportier-looking Hilux GR Sport Lo-Floor 2WD has simpler front and corner aero kits, side skirts and comes with much smaller but relatively sportier 215/55R17 Bridgestone Turanza T005A tyres that are also fitted on the Toyota Innova.
Similar to the
Toyota Vios GR Sport
 in Malaysia, the suspension on both the Hilux GR Sport variants has been upgraded for better dynamism as well as sensation to the driver. In the Toyota Hilux GR Sport 4WD, the shock absorbers have been upgraded to GR-tuned monotube units.
The modification is certainly not as focused as the Ford Ranger Raptor, which has a wider and revised rear axle featuring coil springs and rear disc brakes as well as ‘Baja’ drive mode. Both Toyota Hilux GR Sport variants do get red-painted front brake calipers with GR logo though.
As for the Hilux GR Sport Lo-Floor 2WD, the engineers have been given the liberty to dramatically lowered the ride height in combination with the new spring and shock absorber units. The pick-up truck now rides
23 mm lower
 than the regular 2WD variant! Ground clearance is at a “proud” 164 mm.
In Thailand, Toyota Gazoo Racing Motorsport holds not only the Vios and Corolla Altis one-make race but also have the Hilux one-make race that also sees quite a large participation by the locals and Toyota dealers. Thus, the Hilux GR Sport Lo-Floor 2WD encapsulates the competition spirit of the motorsport Hilux machines.
Both Toyota Hilux GR Sport variants get the most powerful Toyota Hilux engine to date- the 1GD-FTV (High) 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine with outputs of
204 hp
 and
500 Nm
 of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission with shift paddles is the sole transmission available, unlike the
Ford Ranger

XL Street S
pecial Edition
.
Discrete is the theme for this converted Toyota Hilux V8, and there is no plan for the second unit. Find out more about its German heart here!
As mentioned earlier, the Hilux GR Sport Lo-Floor gets 500 Nm of traction to the rear wheels (2WD), while the regular Hilux features part-time 4WD with shift-on-the-fly, as well as brake assisted traction controllers such as Active Limited Slip Differential and
Active TRC (A-TRC) for use in challenging terrain
.
Inside, both variants get the full GR Sport treatment of the GR-specific instrument cluster (logo and red needles), multi-function leather-wrapped steering wheel with red centre-marking, and perforated suede and leather seat upholstery with red stitching. The only missing item in the Lo-floor is the GR-specific ignition start-stop button that is standard in the 4WD variant.
Smoke silver and metallic black are applied to the trim inserts as well as air vents and are well coordinated with metallic brake and accelerator pedals.
On the safety front, the 4WD variant is equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense suite that includes Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert, and Pre-collision System.
Meanwhile, the Toyota Hilux GR Sport Lo-Floor 2WD variant could be the only modern vehicle with the most torque that excludes Brake Assist (BA)!
According to the specification sheet, the Lo-Floor 2WD
does not come
 with Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRC) and other secondary brake-control systems.
Only three airbags, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) are fitted in the 2WD variant; a basic and low-budget product originally conceived for commercial usages, such as the
Mitsubishi Triton Quest 2WD
.
In the US, they seem to test their trucks rather differently. Watch how this old little Toyota Hilux gets tortured here!
We can imagine controlling the 500 Nm of torque sent to the narrow 215/55R17 Turanza tyres. All that fun does not come cheap though, as the Toyota Hilux GR Sport Lo-Floor 2WD is priced at
THB889,000
 (approx RM114k) while the Hilux GR Sport 4WD variant has a price tag of
THB1,299,000
 (approx RM 167k).
With the Toyota Hilux a major contributor to UMW Toyota Motor’s revenue and market share, it is only a matter of time before the company introduces a Hilux GR Sport with Malaysian flavour and taste.
GALLERY
2021 Toyota Hilux GR Sport 4WD
2021 Toyota Hilux GR Sport Lo-Floor 2WD


McLaren celebrates production of 15,000th car – now builds up to 20 cars a day

McLaren Automotive celebrated the production of its 15,000
th
 car at the McLaren Production Centre (MPC) in Surrey, England – just seven years after production first began.
The
15,000
th
  unit is a 570S Spider from the Sports Series in Curacao Blue
, comes less than 18 months after the 10,000
th
 car was completed in December 2016.
Check out these
unpublished images of the McLaren 570S Spider
 here!
Production has doubled from around
10 cars a day to 20
, since the introduction of a second production shift in 2016, with 90% of the factory’s produce exported to more than 30 markets around the world.
McLaren achieved record sales last year, selling a total of
3,340 cars
 – a figure the British sportscar maker attributes to the launch of two new models – the
570S Spider
 and the
720S
 from the Super Series.


Mazda MX-5 gets a mechanical hard top without losing boot space! [+ Video]

If you’ve always wanted a Mazda MX-5 but can’t live with a rag top (especially in this region), then check out the new Mazda MX-5 RF. The RF stands for Retractable Fastback and it just made its debut at the ongoing New York International Motor Show.
The MX-5 RF comes in handy, seeing that the bulk of all MX-5s sold came from the hardtop variant. This time, Mazda engineered a new mechanism that connects the roof panel to the boot deck. Once the switch is activated, the magic happens – all in just
 12 seconds
. This however, can only work at speeds no more than 8 km/h.
Traditionally, all retractable convertibles will sacrifice boot space to accommodate all the moving components, but not with this MX-5. Boot space remains identical to the soft top variant – at 130 litres!
But there’s another problem. Surely, having such mechanics in place will add weight to the rear end, but Mazda has retuned the suspension and power steering to compensate the weight penalty, ensuring that the MX-5 brilliant balance is retained. The 1.5-litre and 2.0-litre Skyactiv engines remain unchanged.
New to this MX-5 RF is an all-new ‘premium’
Machine Grey
 paint colour, where three coats (one colour, one reflective and one clear) are used to create “a sheen when illuminated and a genuine metallic look”. In other words, this new paint brings the element of rawness compared to Mazda’s iconic Soul Red.
The new Mazda MX-5 RF will be available in the United States during summer, and worldwide deliveries are expected to begin by 2017. Back at home, the soft top 2.0-litre MX-5, six-speed automatic variant is being sold by Bermaz Motor at RM226,376.32, though it’s still unclear if the six-speed manual will make it here later this year.
We do think that the hardtop variant makes a lot of sense for a tropical country like Malaysia, but if it does find its way to Malaysia, it should cost a little bit more than the soft top convertible.
IMAGE GALLERY


Perodua Axia Style launched in Sri Lanka, priced at RM89k

The
facelifted Perodua Axia
 has made its Sri Lankan debut at the Seylan Colombo Motor Show, less than two months after it was introduced locally in Malaysia.
The crossover-inspired
Axia Style
 will be the sole variant available in Sri Lanka at the time being, priced at 3.895 million rupees (RM89,000).
Perodua President and Chief Executive Officer, Dato’ Zainal Abidin Ahmad said, “As Sri Lanka is the Perodua brand’s biggest overseas market and one that has always been accepting of the Axia, with some 3,000 units sold since 2015, it is fitting as the new Perodua Axia Style’s first export destination.”
The Style features a few visual flourishes over the standard Axia range, including unique front and rear bumpers featuring skid plate elements, all-round body cladding, roof mouldings, rear spoiler, and 15-inch alloy wheels.
Bookings for the Axia Style are being collected at the show by Sri Lankan distributor Unimo Enterprises, with deliveries expected to begin early next year.
Unimo Enterprises Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director, Mahesh Gunathilake said, “SUVs and crossovers are enjoying a big rise globally and we foresee the same trend taking hold in Sri Lanka.
“The new Perodua Axia Style offers the active and trendy looks of a crossover in a compact, fuel-efficient, dependable and value-for-money package that we believe will strike a chord with Sri Lankans,” he added.
Unimo Enterprises has sold nearly 16,000 Perodua cars since 1997, approximately 20% of all Perodua exports to date. The national carmaker says that it aims to export 3,270 cars this year – 50% more than last year’s 2,184 units.


Volkswagen plans to launch 34 new models in 2020

Volkswagen is planning to start the new decade with a bang, with 34 new models in the pipeline to be launched globally in 2020.
The line-up will include a total of eight electrified vehicles. Volkswagen’s first electric vehicle – the
ID.3
 will go on sale in Summer (June to August), “soon followed” by the
ID.Next
, the brand’s first electric SUV.
The six other electric or hybrid vehicles will also include the Golf GTE, the performanced-oriented hybrid variant of the
Golf 8
, which packs a combined output of
245 hp
.
Volkswagen has not specified all other models in the 34-model offensive for the next year, though the company did say that 12 of the planned launches will be SUVs – a key market segment contributing to the success of the German marque in recent years.
Volkswagen COO, Ralf Brandstätter noted that “In a shrinking overall market the Volkswagen brand has won market shares worldwide and significantly improved its operating result.”
The success can be attributed to the restructuring of its core business, which will also contribute to the 2.6 billion Euros in savings by the end of 2019.
Volkswagen will be investing a total of 19 billion Euros through 2024, of which 11 billion alone will be allocated for the further development of “e-mobility”.
Alongside electrification efforts, the brand is also carrying out its digital transformation roadmap, laying the groundwork to expanding software expertise of the brand and the Volkswagen Group.
The spaceship-like cockpit of the VW Golf 8
A newly established Car.Software organisation will begin operation as an independent business unit from January 2020, as the brand expects the in-house car software development services to rise from under 10% today to at least 60% in 2025.


Perodua donates RM1.1 million to Tabung Harapan Malaysia

Perodua has just contributed RM1.1 million to Tabung Harapan Malaysia, a fund set up by the Pakatan Harapan Government to help to reduce the country’s RM1 trillion national debt.
The Perodua community consisting the brand’s group of companies and staff are in support of the Government’s efforts to reduce the country’s debts. Perodua Chairman, YBhg Tan Sri Asmat Kamaludin said: “The contribution demonstrates that Perodua and our staff want a better Malaysia and that we are more than happy to show our support for that cause.”
Tan Sri Asmat presented the contribution to Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng at the Ministry of Finance today. Also present are Perodua President and CEO Datuk (Dr) Aminar Rashid Salleh, Perodua Auto Corporation Sdn Bhd Vice-President Dato’ Zainal Abidin Ahmad and Perodua Auto Corporation Sdn Bhd President Mr Masanori Takahashi.
“We understand that the effort to reduce the country’s debt levels will take some time, and we will support the government of the day in improving the country’s economy through the Malaysian automotive eco-system.” Tan Sri Asmat said.
As of 25 September 2018, 3 pm, Tabung Harapan has amassed over RM191 million through donations from organisations, groups and individuals.


Volkswagen Touareg goes on sale in the UK, 3.0L V6 TDI & 8-speed auto

The recently unveiled
third-generation Volkswagen Touareg
 has just gone on sale in the UK with only one powertrain option available, the 3.0-litre V6 TDI turbodiesel.
Positioned as the brand’s flagship SUV, the Touareg is available with two exterior trims – standard and R-Line, the latter gives the five-seater SUV a sportier flair. Sitting on Volkswagen Group’s modular longitudinal matrix (MLB), the Touareg measures 4,878 mm long (+77 mm); 2,193 mm wide (+44 mm) and 1,702 mm high (-7 mm). Boot space is rated at 800 litres or 1,800 litres with the rear seats folded down.
Customers in the UK can opt for the Innovision Cockpit that marries a 12.0-inch Active Info Display and a 15.0-inch TFT Discover Premium infotainment to create an immersive and interactive cabin for the occupants. Other creature comfort options include pneumatic massage front seats, panoramic sliding sunroof (the largest ever on a Volkswagen), 30-colour LED ambient lighting and more.
At launch, the Touareg is offered with a sole 3.0-litre V6 TDI turbodiesel engine that kicks out
 286 hp
 and a peak torque of
600 Nm
 paired to a conventional eight-speed automatic. Drive is transferred to all four corners via the
4MOTION
 all-wheel-drive system that can transfer 70 per cent of available power to the front axles or up to 80 per cent to the rear axles when required.
Century sprint on the V6 TDI equipped Touareg is rated at
 6.1 seconds
 while top speed is registered at
235 km/h
. A detuned
 231 hp
 3.0-litre V6 TDI and a
340 hp
 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 petrol engine will be available for the UK market towards the end of the year. The
367 hp plug-in hybrid
 powertrain that is planned for China will also be available in Europe, but the company did not commit to a timeline.
The Touareg is also equipped with all the latest driver assistance system such as Night Vision, Traffic Jam and Roadwork Lane Assist (semi-autonomous driving in traffic up to 60 km/h), Front Cross Traffic Assist, active all-wheel steering and a new roll stabilisation system with electromechanically controlled anti-roll bars.
Pricing for the all-new Volkswagen Touareg in the UK starts from £51,595 (RM274k) with deliveries to commence in the second half of 2018. The Touareg model was officially on sale in Malaysia for a brief period in 2007 but has since dropped from the local line up.
IMAGE GALLERY


Porsche 718 Cayman & Cayman S arrive in Malaysia, starts from RM530k!

Introduced in conjunction with the grand opening of the Porsche Centre Penang are the
all-new Porsche 718 Cayman and 718 Cayman S
. Priced from RM530k and RM700k respectively, both come with a 4-Year warranty with free service.
As with the 718 Boxster, the biggest news lies behind the driver, albeit concealed within a neatly packaged “boot space”. In place of the old flat-six engines are the 2.0-litre and 2.5-litre flat-fours, both turbocharged to generate more power and torque from before. The smaller engine equipped in the 718 Cayman makes
300 hp
 and
380 Nm
 of torque, up by 25 hp and a whopping 90 Nm from the older model.

The Cayman S’ 2.5-litre lump produces
350 hp
 and
 420 Nm
 of torque – also an increase of 25 hp and 50 Nm of torque compared to the old mill. This engine also gets
 Variable Turbine Geometry
 (VTG). Both variants get the quick-shifting seven-speed PDK transmission. Together with the Sport Chrono Pack, the Cayman will do the century sprint in 4.7 seconds, whereas the Cayman S does that in 4.2 seconds. Top speed is 275 km/h and 285 km/h respectively.
Features such as bi-xenon headlights, four-point LED DRLs, active wind deflectors, four-pot brakes and 18-inch wheels are standard on the Cayman (19-inch on the Cayman S). Optional equipment include Porsche Active Suspension Management that reduces ride height by 10mm, cruise control, Adaptive Cruise Control with coasting feature and lane change assist.

Both Caymans come with the latest generation Porsche Communication Management with a 7-inch touchscreen positioned in the centre dash. This supports Apple CarPlay with voice control and GPS navigation, among others.
As with all Porsche cars, customers can spec their dream car however the wish with Porsche Malaysia (or Sime Darby Auto Performance, SDAP).
IMAGE GALLERY


Proton opens new 3S Centre in Bandar Bukit Puchong

Proton has added another full-fledged 3S centre to its dealership and services network. The new outlet, located in Puchong, will be operated by dealer-partner Lesydear Automobile (Lesydear Auto).
The new
 RM2.5 million
 facility, houses a showroom capable of
displaying five cars
, along with a service centre with
six bays
 and
four service hoists
. Other amenities include a
coffee bar
,
 laptop charging ports
, and
free Wi-Fi
 for the customers’ convenience.
The new outlet, which is easily accessible via the LDP, joins a
network of 120-strong Proton 3S and 4S centres
. With this 3S outlet, customers in Puchong and the surrounding area can have access to sales, service and spare parts availability all under one roof.
Proton Deputy CEO, Dato’ Radzaif Mohamed said, “Aside from good product offerings, the strength of a company lies in its network. It is this reason that Proton has placed a lot of focus on network development and upgrading of its outlets.
“It is important because it serves as the main contact point between customers and us. Today, we are proud to say that, as a result of this, customers are looking more favourably to the Proton brand as a purchase choice,” he added.
Minister of Communications and Multimedia, YB Gobind Singh who was there to officiate the new outlet, said, “It is crucial that we adapt quickly in order to reap and capitalise on the benefits of the digital age, as well as for our country to remain competitive and relevant in this sector.”
YB Gobind Singh further added that the
Proton X70
 epitomises modern automotive technology, especially with the embedded eSIM for always-on connectivity to the 4G network. “We are all proud of Proton and its achievements. After all it’s my official car,” he quipped.
The new Proton 3S outlet is located at
 No.2, Jalan BP4, Bandar Bukit Puchong, 47120 Puchong, Selangor
.


There’s a new Subaru WRX STI Type RA-R in Japan we won’t be getting

Subaru Corporation and Subaru Tecnica International (STI) has introduced the WRX STI TYPE RA-R, a special limited-edition model with just 500 units available for the Japanese market alone, at approx. RM 182k.
The TYPE RA-R, based on the WRX STI, was built to commemorate STI’s 30th anniversary since its establishment in 1988. Developed under the concepts of lightweight, speed and enjoyment”, the TYPE RA-R was built to pursue the “Running, Turning and Stopping” fundamentals of a performance car.
With the application of lightweight parts, the TYPE RA-R
 saves 30kg of weight
 compared to the previous complete models “S208” and “S207”, and is also
10kg lighter
 than the base model WRX STI.
Combined with lighter body is EJ20 Boxer engine from the S208, strapped with a twin-scroll turbocharger to produce
329 hp
 and
432 Nm
 of torque, delivering the highest output among all the STI complete models.

With the power-to-weight ratio exceeding that of the S208, the Type RA-R brings “speed” and ”enjoyment” at the highest level seen on any STI model.
An STI performance exhaust system with lowered back pressure also contributes to higher engine output and more direct acceleration response. The dampers and coil springs on the Type RA-R were exclusively-designed for the car, that’s sitting on Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres.
Brembo brakes with high performance brake pads sit behind a set of lovely 18-inch BBS wheels. These enhancements give extra margins for the TYPE RA-R and better controllability for the driver’s peace of mind.
Source:
Subaru Japan
IMAGE GALLERY


Hybrid and high-performance Aston Martin DBX confirmed, up to six derivatives by 2024

Aston Martin’s ex-CEO Andy Palmer once said that the
DBX
 could be the brand’s most important car ever, with the survival of the company essentially weighing entirely on the shoulders of the SUV’s success. The DBX went into production last summer, and in just about a year, now accounts for more than half of Aston Martin’s global sales – so by all means, the DBX has been a marked win for the brand, but they’re just getting started.
Following new executive director
Lawrence Stroll’s comments
 in the company’s first-quarter financial report last year, Aston Martin CEO Tobias Moers has now confirmed in a recent interview with
MotorTrend
 that further derivatives of the DBX will be coming, starting with a mild hybrid variant by the year-end.
The mild hybrid DBX is expected to utilise an electrified supercharged 3.0-litre straight-six engine that’s derived from Mercedes-AMG 53 models. Following that, a high-performance model will be unveiled in 2022 to compete directly against the
Lamborghini Urus
.
Watch our full review of the Aston Martin DBX here!
“There is room for improvement in regards to performance because other competitors have a higher level of engine performance,” Moers said in the interview, and noted that it won’t be called an AMR model, because “there is no need for a sub-brand – Aston Martin is a performance brand.”
The DBX plug-in hybrid will then follow in 2023, using a modified version of
Mercedes-AMG’s new V8 plug-in hybrid technology
. But model expansion will be more than just powertrain options.
Aston Martin is also planning for more body styles, based on the DBX’s platform. “We are going to use the platform of the DBX and create an even sportier approach for that car,” Moers says. “We need different body styles, more bang-on performance, a more aggressive body style, things like that.”
“The DBX gives us a lot of leverage as a platform,” he added. “You can think about being more luxurious, spacious, and you can think about being more sporty, even more-performance oriented body style.” This all suggests that the
highly-rumoured seven-seater DBX
 is indeed coming, along with a coupe variant, sometime between 2023 and 2024.
The Aston Martin DBX is also now serving as F1’s new medical car! Check it out here.
By 2024, Moers said that there should be about five or six DBX versions to choose from. Judging by the demand they have for the SUV currently, it seems more than likely that the DBX and its derivatives will continue paving the way in terms of sales for Aston Martin for many years to come.


2017 Volkswagen Arteon is one fine piece of art, replaces the CC

Unveiled for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show is a rather spirited gran turismo from Volkswagen, this time bearing a look far more distinctive than the old Passat – CC duo. The
Volkswagen Arteon
 is effectively the successor to the CC.
Like most other models in the VW stable (including the Passat B8), the Arteon sits on the modular MQB platform. It’s shorter overall compared to the Passat, but is marginally wider and sits lower to the ground. The grand tourer is uncompromisingly a five seater with an impressive cargo space of 563 litres (Passat B8 gets 586 litres). This goes up to 1,557 litres with the rear seats folded down.
The front end showcases an entirely new visual approach, with full LED headlamps that ‘flow’ into the stacked grille. Wheel sizes vary from 17 to 20 inches, and currently just two trims are available – Elegance and R-Line. LED tail lamps are standard, but the R-Line gets extra dynamic signal indicators. And if you’re wondering, the R-Line variant here is finished in a new coat of paint called Curcuma Yellow. There’s also Atlantic Blue and Chili Red.
Inside is where things start to feel familiar. The bulk of the cabin is carried over from the Passat, but with one big difference – the infotainment system. Housed in a glass surface, the 9.2-inch Discover Pro system is the top-of-the-line offering, featuring gesture controls and comes without a single button. Lesser variants make do with screen sizes upwards of 6.5-inches.
As for performance, there’s up to six turbocharged engines available right off the bat, comprised of three petrol (TSI) and three diesel (TDI) engines. If the Arteon comes to Malaysia, expect no less than the 2.0-litre TSI producing 187 horsepower. This one is front wheel drive only, though. The hotter 276 hp variant will get 4MOTION all wheel drive, but both share the same seven-speed dual clutch transmission (DSG).
Other notable features include Adaptive Cruise Control (camera based), Emergency Assist, front and rear Pre-Crash sensors, predictive cornering lights and the usual suite of active and passive safety technologies.
IMAGE GALLERY


2023 Audi Q8 e-tron launched in Malaysia, from RM398k – up to 487km range, up to 408hp & 664Nm

Once known simply as the
Audi e-tron
, the SUV that pioneered
Audi
’s
 line of electric vehicles (EV) has been updated and renamed the Audi Q8 e-tron late last year. To all those who are fans of this EV SUV and have been waiting, good news! The 2023 Audi Q8 e-tron has finally been officially launched in Malaysia. With two body styles and four variants available in total, prices for the new flagship EV SUV from Audi start from
RM397,790
, OTR with the Audi Assurance Package (AAP).
Looking to renew your car insurance? Check out
MotorTakaful.com
 by Etiqa for an instant 10% rebate, cashback, and many more if you renew online.
Audi Q8 e-tron S Line 55
As mentioned, there are a total of four variants of the 2023 Q8 e-tron offered in Malaysia, this includes:
Audi Q8 e-tron Advanced 50 Quattro –
RM397,790
(OTR with AAP)
Audi Q8 Sportback e-tron Advanced 50 Quattro –
RM403,790
(OTR with AAP)
Audi Q8 e-tron S Line 55 Quattro – from
RM488,790
(OTR with AAP)
Audi Q8 Sportback e-tron S Line 55 Quattro –
RM498,790
(OTR with AAP)
Audi Q8 Sportback e-tron Advanced 50
On the outside, the new Audi Q8 e-tron range features Audi’s new electric design language. The Q8 e-tron series is also the first to wear the brand’s new two-dimensional four-rings logo.
In order to make its new logo even more striking, Audi has used the Singleframe light spoiler to highlight its updated four rings. However, this feature is only available with the Audi Q8 e-tron S Line 55 and Q8 Sportback e-tron S Line 55 variants. The Q8 e-tron series is also the first to be fitted with the new Audi and model name lettering designs on the B-pillar.
Audi also boasts about the Q8 e-tron’s improved aerodynamics – 0.26 to 0.24 for the Q8 Sportback e-tron, and 0.28 to 0.27 for the ‘regular’ Q8 e-tron. This is made possible thanks to the Singleframe grille’s controllable cool-air intake and camera-based virtual side-view mirrors found in the S Line 55 models, as well as the SUV’s air curtains and wheel spoiler.
RELATED:
2023 Audi RS3 Sedan launched in Malaysia from RM646k – 400 hp, 500 Nm, faster than M3 and A45S
Audi Q8 e-tron Advanced 50
Exterior features that are fitted as standard with the Malaysian-spec 2023 Audi Q8 e-tron Advanced 50 include:
LED headlamps with high beam assist
LED rear combination lamps
20-inch Graphite Grey five-arm dynamic style alloy wheels
The Q8 Sportback e-tron Advanced 50 adds on:
Digital LED headlamps
Black styling package
20-inch Graphite Grey five-arm “Aero” ring-style alloy wheels
Red callipers
The Q8 e-tron S Line 55, adds on:
Sharper bumper garnishes
S Line tread plates
Digital Matrix LED headlamps with active adjustment and masking
Singleframe projector lighting
Virtual side-view mirrors
Panoramic glass sunroof
Door entrance LED projector lights
21-inch five-arm black turbine-style alloy wheels
The Q8 Sportback e-tron S Line 55 tops the line with:
Audi Sport 21-inch Black Metallic five-arm “Aero” structure style alloy wheels.
Audi Q8 e-tron Advanced 50
Dimensions-wise, the Audi Q8 e-tron Advanced 50 and Q8 e-tron S Line 55 measure
4,915 mm
 long,
1,937 mm
 wide,
1,633 mm
 tall, and are underpinned by a
2,928 mm
 long wheelbase. The Sportback variants measure the same length, width, and wheelbase-wise, however, they are slightly lower in height than the ‘regular’ non-Sportback variants, measuring just
1,619 mm
 tall.
Performance-wise, the Q8 e-tron Advanced 50 and Q8 Sportback e-tron Advanced 50 are powered by a dual-motor setup, paired with a single-speed 2-stage ratio planetary gearbox. Battery capacity is rated at
95 kWh
, giving
410 km
 of WLTP range for the e-tron Advanced 50, and
415 km
 (WLTP) for the Sportback e-tron Advanced 50. Power is sent to all four wheels via Audi’s Quattro AWD system, producing
340 hp
 and
664 Nm
 in boost mode.
Sprinting from a standstill to 100 km/h takes
6.0 seconds
, and the top speed is set at
200 km/h
. Suspension-wise, the Q8 e-tron Advanced 50 range features Audi’s adaptive air suspension.
Audi Q8 Sportback e-tron Advanced 50
Charging the Advanced 50 variants can be done via
11 kW
 (AC), which will take
9.15 hours
 to fully charge. For even quicker charging speeds, the Q8 e-tron Advanced 50 series can support up to a maximum of
150 kW
 DC charging. Going from 10% to 80% of charge takes around
31 minutes
, and a 10-minute quick charge can provide
123 km
 of WLTP range. Full technical details of the Q8 e-tron Advanced 50 variants are as such:
Drivetrain: Dual-motor AWD
Combined output:
340 hp
 (in boost mode)
Total torque:
664 Nm
 (in boost mode)
0-100 km/h:
6.0 seconds
Top speed:
200 km/h
Battery:
95 kWh
Range (Q8 e-tron Advanced 50):
410 km
 (WLTP)
Range (Q8 Sportback e-tron Advanced 50):
415 km
 (WLTP)
Suspension: Adaptive air suspension
RELATED:
Gallery: 2023 Audi Q3 Sportback 2.0 TFSI quattro with 180 hp and 320 Nm, RM351k
Audi Q8 Sportback e-tron Advanced 50
Powering the 2023 Audi Q8 e-tron S Line 55 and Q8 Sportback e-tron S Line 55 are a set of dual-motor setups, paired with a single-speed 2-stage ratio planetary gearbox as well. Battery capacity is rated at
114 kWh
, giving
481 km
 of WLTP range for the e-tron S Line 55, and
487 km
 (WLTP) for the Sportback e-tron S Line 55.
Power is also sent to all four wheels via the Quattro AWD system, giving the SUVs a total of
408 hp
 and
664 Nm
 in boost mode. The century sprint can be done in under
5.6 seconds
, while top speed is also capped at
200 km/h
. In terms of suspensions, the ‘regular’ e-tron S Line 55 utilises the same adaptive air suspension as the Advanced 50 variants, while the Sportback e-tron S Line 55 uses Audi’s sport adaptive air suspension.
Audi Q8 Sportback e-tron Advanced 50
Like the Advanced 50 variants, the S Line 55 variants take
11 kW
AC charging as well. A full charge takes
11.30 hours
 with the
11 kW
 charger.
22 kW
AC charging is also available for the S Line 55 range and can charge to full in
six hours
.
The 2023 Q8 e-tron S Line 55 and Q8 Sportback e-tron S Line 55 also take DC charging up to
170 kW
. Like the Advanced 50 variants, charging the cars from 10% to 80% takes approximately
31 minutes
, and a 10-minute quick charge can give up to
123 km
 of WLTP range. Full technical details of the Q8 e-tron S Line 55 variants are as such:
Drivetrain: Dual-motor AWD
Combined output:
408 hp
(in boost mode)
Total torque:
664 Nm
 (in boost mode)
0-100 km/h:
5.6 seconds
Top speed:
200 km/h
Battery:
114 kWh
Range (Q8 e-tron S Line 55):
481 km
 (WLTP)
Range (Q8 Sportback e-tron S Line 55):
487 km
 (WLTP)
Suspension (Q8 e-tron S Line 55): Adaptive air suspension
Suspension (Q8 Sportback e-tron S Line 55): Sport adaptive air suspension
Audi Q8 Sportback e-tron Advanced 50
The 2023 Audi Q8 e-tron series in Malaysia come with the complimentary e-tron Compact Chargers, and RM1,000 worth of JomCharge Credits are given to all e-tron owners, with a validity period of one year.
To further enhance the ownership experience, all models also come with the mobile e-tron Charging System Compact, in order to provide charging convenience, no matter the location.
The system essentially consists of an intelligent compact charger and power cables – one that plugs into the vehicle and the other to the standard household power socket with an output of 1.8kW to 2.3 kW, or via a three-phase power supply with an output of 11 kW. Charging can be set to 100 and 50 percent charging power on the charging unit to avoid potentially overloading the home’s electrical system.
Audi Q8 Sportback e-tron Advanced 50
Audi Q8 Sportback e-tron Advanced 50
Audi Q8 Sportback e-tron Advanced 50
Moving inside, the 2023 Audi Q8 e-tron Advanced 50 in Malaysia is equipped with Audi’s Multi-Media Interface (MMI) touch response operating system. This is made up of a two-display setup – an upper 10.1-inch display, and a lower 8.6-inch diagonal display. Audi’s Virtual Cockpit Plus with full HD display also comes with the 2023 Q8 e-tron as standard.
List of equipment you get as standard with the Audi e-tron Advanced 50 includes:
“Mono.Pur 550” leather and leatherette combination seat
Electrically adjustable front seats
Memory function for the driver seat
4-way lumbar support for the front seats
Leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel with shift paddles
Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus
MMI touch response operating system
10.1-inch + 8.6-inch diagonal display
Voice control
Head-up display (HUD)
Audi Phone Box Light
Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound System
Four-zone climate control system
The Q8 Sportback e-tron Advanced 50 adds on:
Valcona leather seats
Decorative inserts in dark matte brushed aluminium
The Q8 e-tron S Line 55 and Q8 Sportback e-tron S Line 55 adds on:
S Line interior with red stitchings and stainless steel pedals
Valcona leather seats with embossed “S”
S Line seat inlays
Illuminated scuff plates with aluminium inserts
Sports contour flat-bottomed leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel with shift paddles
Power-assisted door closing
In the safety department, all variants of the 2023 Audi Q8 e-tron in Malaysia are equipped with these features as standard:
8 airbags
Audi Pre Sense for both front and rear
Adaptive Cruise control (ACC) with speed limiter, efficiency assist, swerve assist, and turn assist
Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
Front and Rear Cross Traffic Assist (FCTA & RCTA)
The 2023 Audi Q8 e-tron series come with a 5-year unlimited mileage manufacturer warranty, an 8-year battery warranty, and 3 years of maintenance via AAP. Customers can also opt for the standard 2-year unlimited mileage warranty.
To recap, the Audi Q8 e-tron series has just been launched in Malaysia. With prices starting from
RM
3
97,790
, the Q8 e-tron range is available in four variants – Q8 e-tron Advanced 50, Q8 Sportback e-tron Advanced 50, Q8 e-tron S Line 55, and the Q8 Sportback e-tron S Line 55.
RELATED:
Audi begins using AI to design wheels – Will robots replace designers?
GALLERY
Q8 e-tron Advanced 50

Quattro
Q8 Sportback e-tron Advanced 50 Quattro
Q8 e-tron S Line 55

Quattro
Q8 Sportback e-tron S Line 55

Quattro
.


KL City Grand Prix: Porsche and Audi R8 LMS to miss inaugural race

The countdown to the inaugural KL City Grand Prix is marked at just a mere 10 days away, and much has happened with respect to that. GT Global Race CEO, Mr M Arrasu commented recently that the proposed Porsche Carrera Cup and Audi R8 LMS Cup races will not be scheduled at the upcoming KL City GP.
Mr Arrasu mentioned that the reason the two race cups series are
being dropped
 from the roster is due to the
lack of time
. Not just any time, but
track time
 rather,

because the city centre cannot be closed a moment longer than required.
Having covered that, it was also reported by an English daily that the organisers of the race had
not
 formally applied for an
event license
. The Sports Commissioners Office has yet to issue an
Event License
 to
GT Global Race (M) Sdn Bhd
 who are hosting the KL GP. Failing that may result in them breaching the Sports Development Act 1997 and facing a fine of up to
RM5,000 or a jail term
 or both.
With just
10 days
 on the clock, it would be a shame to see this inaugural city race be cancelled for the want of an Event License. Aside from that, business owners, hoteliers and residents along the five affected streets have lamented on the lack of preparation on the side of the organiser, as reported by the same daily.

Let’s not get bogged down by setbacks as such, but rather look forward to the impressive line-up of cars that will be running that weekend. The first ever main feature race of KL GP will see the newest additions to the world of GT racing. The one-make
Lamborghini Super Trofeo
 race series will see a grid full of Lamborghini Huracán LP 620-2 Super Trofeo cars roar around the
3.2km circuit
.
The Formula Masters are slated to make an appearance with its state-of-the-art,
sub 600kg
 cars that are powered by
180hp and 200 Nm
 of torque powerplant. Out of the five teams competing, two of them are home grown. Finally, the thunder from Down Under will be making its debut here with their
top five
 teams putting on an exhibition race. Malaysia is poised to become part of the
Australian V8 Supercar
 race series schedule starting
2016
.
The race is thought to attract as much as
100,000 spectators
 over the weekend. For ticket info, please visit
gtcitygrandprix.com/tickets


New Toyota Land Cruiser accelerates like a hot hatch!

The all-new Land Cruiser was just launched earlier this month, and as expected there’s already a video demonstrating its acceleration on social media;
posted by Kurdistan Automotive Blog
.
Besides being built on Toyota’s highly capable TNGA chassis for better handling and refinement, it is also the first Land Cruiser to be designed with a body-on-frame application.
Find out everything you need to know about Toyota’s new TNGA platform here!
It’s also really powerful too. It’s got a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 with 415 hp and 600 Nm but that’s all on paper, until this Facebook post.
The video only shows the instrument cluster of the Land Cruiser and the way the needles move, would surprise you. It appears smooth, relentless and boy, does it sound good too!
0 to 100 km/h is done in a brisk and if you noticed, the V6 engine appeared really eager to rev to the redline too – very suprising performance for such a big lump indeed.
One of the reasons for this could be down to the big SUVs dramatic weight loss. Compared to the previous model, the all-new model is around
200 kg lighter
 but just as stiff, due to the TNGA-F platform it is built on.
The Land Cruiser also comes with a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 diesel engine, with 309 hp and 700 Nm.
Find out more about the all-new Land Cruiser in detail here!


Proton R3 to field three female drivers in next year’s Sepang 1000km race

Team Proton R3, Proton’s motorsport arm has announced a search and mentorship programme for female drivers aspiring to unearth their hidden talents in the Malaysia Speed Festival (MSF), the largest grassroots motorsports event in the country.
The new MSF-R3 Lady Search initiative is aimed at providing Malaysian aspiring female race car drivers to shine in both local and international events as currently almost all of them are male-dominated.
From the initial pool of nine female contestants, three of which will eventually be offered an opportunity to develop as racing drivers and subsequently
participate in the 2019 Sepang 1000km (S1K) race with a Proton R3 race-prepared car
.
Selections will be based on the contestant’s performance in a series of on and off-track activities, where they will be judged based on discipline, team work and commitment aside from their skill behind the wheel.
Being the only manufacturer-supported race team in Malaysia, Proton R3’s experience spans 15 years with a resume that includes wins in the Asia Pacific Rally Championship (APRC) and even victories at World Rally Championship (WRC) level.
Locally, the team has two overall Merdeka Millenium Endurance (MME) wins along with four Sepang 1000km (S1K) victories under its belt – a feat yest to be matched by any other automotive brand.


These official Lamborghini Huracan upgrade parts look sick!

Do you have a
RM2.1 million Lamborghini Huracan
in your garage but feel like it needs that extra visual enhancement? Then look no further than Lamborghini’s official styling packs that’s going to give you just the right kit you need.
There are three different styling packs that consist of stripes, bodykit, spoilers and new wheels, all without voiding the manufacturer’s warranty. The first kit, probably the most affordable among the trio, is the “aesthetic” package. As the name implies, it adds racing livery that can be had in either matte black, glossy black or red colours.

If owners aren’t contented with just a sticker upgrade, they can opt for the “aerodynamic kit”. This kit adds a front splitter, side skirts, rear diffuser and a large rear wing. According to Lamborghini, the kit, made using composite material and finished in matte black, is mainly an aesthetic addition and will not affect any corner slicing capabilities of the standard Huracan.
Finally, there’s a race-grade kit for the Huracan in a form of the centre-lock wheel nuts and special black wheels. Paying tribute to the company’s SuperTrofeo one-make race cars, this kit comes in handy for quick tyre changes just like the pitstops in Grand Prix racing. All three kits are available in all Lamborghini dealerships worldwide.
However, no pricing was unveiled at press time but the least we can do is to provide the details of Malaysia’s Lamborghini dealer as per this
link
.
IMAGE GALLERY


Ford teases parts of the new upcoming Focus and it looks pretty good

Ford has just released a new video on its YouTube page showing a glimpse of its new Focus and I must say, it looks quite alluring. If I observed correctly, I think there’s a hint of Volvo’s “Thor’s hammer” daytime running lights on the new car as well; half a hammer at least.
I’m quite fond of the new headlamp design that resembles quite closely to the “three LED projector layout” found in the
new 2.0-litre turbocharged Toyota Harrier
 that just went on sale in Malaysia recently. They’ve also exposed a new wheel design and if my eyes haven’t failed me, it’s 18-inch in size.
Having released a
heavily-camouflaged image of the new Focus
 at the end of last year, Ford revealed that besides a new, sharper rear end, as vaguely shown in video, the new Focus will also house a new cabin with a floating infotainment display
as seen in the new Fiesta
.
On the side note, Ford also announced that it would be introducing the new EcoSport, a Transit Custom and the Fiesta Active Crossover – all in the first half of 2018.


Mazda the biggest winner at ASEAN COTY Awards 2016, bags 7 titles!

It is without a doubt that Mazda is one of the most successful brands in Malaysia. Just the sheer number of Mazda vehicles on our road is already a testament to that. However, if that is not convincing enough, Mazda has proven itself at the ASEAN Car of the Year Awards 2016 (ACOTY) by bagging six wins out of 24 categories. To top it off, the Mazda CX-5 even emerged as the overall winner and crowed as ACOTY 2016, bringing the tally to seven awards!
The
Mazda CX-5
 proved to be the crowd favourite, as voted by motoring journalist and consumers. It beat local favourite
Honda Civic
 by an incredibly small margin of 1.77 points. Thanks to its wide range of engine choices from the frugal 2.0-litre SkyActiv-G petrol to the punchy
2.2-litre SkyActiv-D
 diesel along with an impressive amount of kit and superb driving dynamics, the CX-5 is certainly deserving of its
ASEAN Car of the Year
 title!
(From R to L) Mr. Hamish Stone, CEO of iCar Asia presenting the winner of the Overall Car of the Year Award to Mr. Ian Khong, Senior Manager, Brand Equity, Bermaz Motor.
In the
Compact Hatch and Sedan of the Year
category, the
Mazda2 Hatchback
 and
Sedan
emerged on top, edging the
Honda Jazz
, Ford Fiesta,
Honda City
 and
Volkswagen Vento
 in its respective categories. Despite numerous complaints towards the cramped cabin, the driving dynamics and premium interior was enough to overcome its shortcomings.

In the
Family Hatch and Executive Car category
, the
Mazda3 Hatchback
 and
Mazda6
 edges the competition to claim the title. The Mazda3 Hatchback beat even the likes of
Volkswagen Golf
 and
Ford Focus
, whereas the Mazda6 was up against the
Honda Accord
 and
Toyota Camry
.

Lastly, Mazda’s
CX-3
 and CX-5 was crowned
Crossover and Mid-Size SUV of the Year
 in a stiff competition against Subaru (
XV
 and
Forester
) and Honda (
HR-V
 and
CR-V
).
Among the Mazda fleet that bears the
Kodo: Soul of Motion design language
, the
MX-5
 was the only finalist (Coupe/Cabrio of the Year) that did not receive a title. However, the Roadster was crowned as
Japan’s Car of the Year 2015
 and
World Car of the Year 2016
 under its belt.
We applaud Bermaz Motors for their aggressive strategy of offering a variety of
highly-specced vehicle
 in their line-up at
affordable price points
 as well as a
comprehensive 3-Year warranty and free service package
 for added peace of ownership. These factors altogether convinced motoring journalists and consumers to rate highly of Mazda vehicles. Once again, we at
AutoBuzz.my
would like to congratulate Bermaz Motors for taking home seven well-deserved titles.


2021 Hyundai Elantra revealed with a fastback look and snazzy interior

Hyundai Motor has released the first images of the all-new 2021 Elantra and for some reason we can’t help but see the rear quarter of a Honda Civic FC in there.
The all-new 7th generation model’s design revolves around parametric shapes and texture – a reflection of Hyundai’s new design identity – something that was already noticeable in the facelift Elantra launched locally last year.
It also sports are larger, thicker C-pillar, drawing some resemblance to the fastback-ish look of the current generation Honda Civic FC and perhaps even the Gran Coupe models of BMW.
 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j0F2kjJ1w3o
Hyundai says the Elantra will create a driver-focused cockpit via the “Immersive Cocoon” interior theme. There’s a hint of the
new Mk 8 Volkswagen Golf in there too
; with the instrument cluster and infotainment display merged as one.
Locally,
the facelift Elantra is only available in a single variant
 – the 2.0-litre Executive – priced at RM109,888.
IMAGE GALLERY


Nissan’s latest EV concept is a futuristic two-seater land yacht

While SUVs and high-riding body styles have been the choice of manufacturers and designers to
better integrate the EV
 powertrain packaging, Nissan has sketched their driver’s car in the form of a 2-seat convertible.
The Nissan Max-Out Concept is briefly described as a convertible that surpasses the conventions of driving excitement. Built on an all-new platform and powertrain that features a new thin battery pack, the Max-Out Concept is aimed to deliver the joys of sports cars- steering precision, response and
oneness with the car
.
Under the ‘Nissan Ambition 2030’ business plan focussing on electrification for this decade, the company will be engineering and developing a new electric car platform that will underpin as many as 15 new models by 2030 including
Infiniti
, with its proprietary all-solid-state battery (ASSB) as the technological highlight.
Nissan will continue to evolve its lithium-ion battery technologies and introduce cobalt-free technology to bring down the cost to USD75 (approx. RM318) per kWh or a 65% reduction by the year 2028. From there, the introduction of ASSBs will further reduce the price to a competitive level of USD65 (approx. RM275) per kWh, a key parameter to achieve
cost parity
 between EV and combustion engine vehicles in the future.
Charging time is also said to be slashed to just one-third with the ASSB technology.
Of the four concept vehicles shown, the white SUV called ‘Chill-Out’ looks the most familiar, as the vehicle was first unveiled as the new EV that will be
built in Nissan’s UK plant
 in Sunderland. Apart from a new product, the facility will also undergo a GBP500 million investment that includes its own solar farms to form a ‘microgrid’ and a battery plant.
Toyota, Mazda and Subaru form partnerships to accelerate the development of hydrogen technology as well as other greener fueling options for current engines. More here!
The ‘Chill-Out’ is said to replace
the Nissan Leaf
 as the brand’s core EV model, and with pick-up trucks a key segment in the US, Nissan has also sketched the idea of an EV model. The Nissan Surf-Out Concept aims to provide consumers with even better experiences in the outdoors thanks to the vehicle’s variety of power sources and large, flat cargo bay with great performance over multiple terrains.
Nissan Ambition 2030 will also push the company to introduce as many as 23 new electrified models including E-Power technology by the end of this decade and hopes to see the four key markets (Europe,
China
, Japan and the US) have a high sales mix, with Europe targeted to be the highest at 75%.
GALLERY
Nissan Max-Out Concept
Nissan Surf-Out Concept
Nissan Hang-Out Concept
Nissan Chill-Out Concept


Shell Helix: Here’s how you can keep it real and authentic

Whether you’ve been misled by someone you’ve blind-dated with cleverly edited pictures or received an exclusive item acquired online only to have your hopes crushed by a fake replica, there’s nothing more disappointing than being let down by false expectation.
We want the best for our cars, so there’s nothing more frustrating than spending a fortune on products to pamper your beloved vehicle only to find out you’ve been cheated with fake goods.
Social media and forums have been set alight recently with news and discontent voiced by persons who may have been cheated by fake “premium” engine oil sold through supposedly “authorised channels”. Word is that these conniving syndicates have even gone to the extent of mixing oil of unknown origins with used engine oil acquired from workshops, just to make them look authentic.
There were even reports of unethical workshops in Malaysia knowingly selling these repackaged products – a disturbing discovery after they were raided by local authorities.
Apart from encouraging its customers to only purchase Helix engine oils from Shell authorised workshops, Shell retail station, Official Shell Online Stores on the Lazada, Shopee and 11street platforms, Shell has also shared useful tips on how to look out for the real deal when purchasing Helix engine oils:
QR Code
Authentic Shell products come with a QR code on the packaging which functions as a proof of authenticity. Note that they cannot be imitated or replicated by counterfeiters.
Range of products
For the Malaysian market, Shell only sells the following range of engine oil:
Shell Helix Ultra 5W 40 (4L)
Shell Helix HX7 10W 40 (4L)
Shell Helix HX7 5W 30 (4L)
Shell Helix HX5 10W 30 (3L)
Shell Helix HX5 15W 40 (4L)
Note that these products will also have “Made for Malaysia / Untuk Pasaran Malaysia” stated on its packaging.

Product Code
There is a product code printed on the new “Made for Malaysia” Shell Helix product packaging. The product code enables tracking and enhances product authentication.
To ensure consumer confidence in the range of Helix engine oil sold in Malaysia, and to curtail the use of fake engine oil that could possibly result in damage to vehicles, it is imperative that customers acquire Shell Helix engine oils from authorised and official channels. Having genuine Helix engine oil in your car doesn’t just safeguard the health of vehicle, it also offers a valuable peace of mind each time you start the engine.
To authenticate the Shell Helix product, simply peel the top right corner of the label to reveal the QR code and scan it with your smartphone to submit details regarding the product. Consumers will then receive an authentication on whether they’re official authorised products from Shell Malaysia.
Doing so will also allow consumers to register for the
Shell Advantage Rewards (SHARE)
 programme that offers goodies such as a sign-up bonus, Shell Helix Engine Warranty (SHEW) and free Shell Helix products. Click
here
 to find out more!


Citroen DS3 1.6 VTi launched in Malaysia, priced at RM117,888

This is one of the cars that I’ve personally been waiting for, the
Citroen DS3
. Previewed for the first time at the KL International Motor Show in November 2013 by its new distributor, the price was speculated to be around RM125,000. Today, Naza Euro Motors launched the Citroen DS3 at Bangsar Shopping Center, with the confirmed price tag of
RM117,888
.
QUICK FACTS
Name
Citroen DS3
Segment
 Premium B-Segment
Engine
1.6-litre VTi, Inline four
Max Power
120hp @ 6000rpm
Max Torque
160Nm @ 4250rpm
Price
 RM117,888 (OTR)

Performance
 This premium B-segment car is powered by  a
1.6-litre
 VTi  that produces
120 horsepower
 and 160 Nm of torque, the same as the Mini One. It gets from 0 to 100 km/h in
10.9 seconds
. It can go all the way to its maximum top speed of 190 km/h. However, I do believe, anyone who is interested in the DS3 will not really mind on what’s under the hood. The looks is what matters.
Exterior
 The first thing you would notice when you see one of these DS’s is the 2 tone roof and body color. There are seven colour combinations to choose from, enough to colour your life. The palette available for the body of the cars consists of red, black, white, blue and yellow. The roof however is only limited to black and white. There is a special ‘Blue Infinity’ roof colour, which only goes with a white body. You must be asking now if you can cuztomize the colour combination. I asked the same thing too, but no. Only preset colours are available.

The significant look of the DS3 that sets it apart from other B-segment competitors is the ‘shark-fin’ B-pillar, that creates an illusion of a floating roof. For me, at least, the design of the entire car is simply brilliant; its headlights, the very prominent side slits on the front bumper, the ‘shark fin’, the ‘floating’ roof and not forgetting, the ‘3-D’ rear lights, which are mesmerizing.
Interior

Once you open the door, you can feel the weight of the door that gives the solid and premium feel. Its ‘Mistral Claudia’ leather seats are very comfortable. The dash as reported earlier has the piano black finishing, which I like, a lot! Even though there were like hundreds of finger prints on it just now, it’s still classy.

Meter display panel is out of the ordinary. Citroen somehow managed to make it modern and yet retro at the same time. It also has gear change indicator to remind you on ideal gear change timing for better fuel efficiency. The DS3 has among the largest boot space in its class at 385-litre. If that’s not enough for you, the rear seats can be folded to a 60:40 configuration.
Also, there’s a typical French touch to the interior of the car; there is a slot insert for perfume! The ‘cartridge’ will have to be purchased from Citroen though. If it’s able to make the car smell like a French lavender farm in spring all year long, then why not?
Safety

The Citroen DS3 was awarded a maximum five-star rating from the
Euro NCAP
 crash safety test, an impressive achievement there for sure. It is fitted with six airbags, yes SIX airbags, ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Electronic Brake Assist (EBA) and of course Electronic Stability Program (ESP).
Summary

Chief Operating Officer of Naza Euro Motors, Dato’ Samson Anand George is confident that which the completion of the Citroen DS line-up in Malaysia, they are able to achieve a sales figure of 600 units in 2014, with the Citroen DS3 alone contributing 30% to 35% to the sales figure. Dato’ Samson also  added that in another three years time, they should be able to achieve 1,000 units annually.
This French B-segment hatchback is a popular car mainly among the Europeans and it is considered as an alternative to the Mini. However, acceptability of French marques among Malaysians has yet to mature as compared to products of Japanese automakers. For the price of
RM117,888
 for the premium supermini Citroen DS3, it is probably time for more Malaysians to explore European creations.
For me, it was love at first sight. However, I must not be blinded by only its good looks. I will get hold of the media test unit and have a thorough test and review to see if it drives as good as it looks.
[divider]
IMAGE GALLERY


New 4th generation Toyota Harrier arrives in Singapore, from SGD160k!

Toyota Singapore
, managed by Borneo Motors, has launched the new 4th generation Toyota Harrier where it will be sold in three different variants with prices starting from SGD160,888 all the way to SGD175,888. The all-new Harrier was
launched in Japan in April last year
.
The variants available are Elegance (non hybrid), Premium and Luxury; the latter two comes with a hybrid powertrain. The Elegance variant comes with a 2.0-litre Dynamic Force engine with 170 hp and 203 Nm, paired to a Direct Shift CVT gearbox.
The Premium and Luxury get a more powerful 2.4-litre engine with 176 hp and 221 Nm engine, aided with an electric motor that produces 118 hp and 202 Nm. Unlike the Direct Shift gearbox in the Elegance, the Premium and Luxury variants come with an eCVT gearbox. Fuel consumption is rated as low as 4.7L/100km in the hybrid variants.
18-inch wheels are standard, along with full LED lighting including the fog lights at the front and back. Other notable features offered across the board includes the adaptive high beam system, hands-free powered tailgate, and even a Harrier foot lamp logo. Interestingly, the Elegance variant of the 4th generation Toyota Harrier still comes with a cable operated fuel lid release, in 2021!
Inside, the 4th generation Toyota Harrier is equipped with a 10.5-inch head-up display, 7-inch multi-information display and 8-inch infotainment display with Apple Car Play and Android Auto.
There are also six speakers and four USB ports. The more distinct features, ventilated front seats, memory seats for the driver are only available in the top two variants. As for the auto dimming panoramic glass roof, it’s exclusively available only in the Luxury variant.
As for safety, there are seven airbags to count on, including side, curtain and driver knee airbags to count on along with pre-collision braking, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, and Lane Departure Alert.
GALLERY


Mitsubishi Triton Phantom Edition introduced, priced at RM116k [+Video]

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) has just unveiled an all-black and limited edition Triton Phantom Edition. Based on the Triton VGT Adventure variant, this 200-unit edition pickup dons additional bodykits and some visual enhancing touches to give it that macho edge.
Improvements are mainly on the aesthetic side for this Thailand assembled pickup. To start off, there’s a
matte black grille
and
 front bumper extender
 at the front, complemented with the sinister word “
Phantom
” embedded onto the bonnet – something that could make drivers at the front sweating their palms. Over at the back, the Phantom gets a
sports bar with full box
 and
matte black rear bumper
.
It also receives a set of
17-inch matte black alloy rims
,

Xenon HID Headlamps
with
 LED daytime running lights
 and exclusive
Phantom black leather seats
.
No mechanical changes were made to this Triton, hence it retains the tried and proven
2.5-litre four-cylinder engine
 with Variable Geometry Turbo (VGT), producing
 176 hp
 and
 400 Nm of torque
.

The gearbox too is unchanged – a
 five-speed automatic gearbox
and
 Easy Select 4WD
system as well.
The Mitsubishi Triton Phantom Edition is all yours at
RM115,680.76
and comes with a 3-year factory warranty. Putting the icing on the cake is MMM’s 2-year Free Maintenance with RM2,000 cash rebates or free labour with RM4,000 cash rebates.
If you haven’t yet seen the Phantom in the flesh, you’d like how it looks just from the video below where Leona Chin, Malaysia’s darling girl drifter pranks unsuspecting customers by drifting the pickup under the pretext of a test drive. Be sure to watch the video and check out the Triton Phantom Edition for yourself!
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New Toyota Harrier looks simply stunning on the move!

Toyota Motor Corporation has released a 2-minute video featuring the new
4th generation Toyota Harrier
 following its launch in Japan just a month ago. While we may not comprehend Japanese, we can appreciate the SUV’s beauty on the move.
It may have retained somewhat the same form and silhouette as the
previous generation model we reviewed
, but the new Harrier seems to have undergone a strict workout regime and a dramatic cosmetic surgery.
The front end features slimmer headlights with sharper edges than before, while the grille panel has been significantly reduced in size – lending a sleeker, more edgy look – while still instantly recognisable as a Harrier.

On the side, the Harrier’s doors are more sculptured, with a profound character line that runs across the front and rear door handles – leading the eye to the new slimmer tail lights where the most significant changes, in our opinion, are at.
In fact, it’ll probably be the main selling point of the new Harrier – the only sales pitch every Toyota salesmen needs – as the new Harrier now comes with tail lights that stretches end-to-end across the tailgate. Now we usually refrain from the futile exercise of describing how a car looks but these little nip and tucks have effectively made the Harrier look less lethargic and more athletic.

A little blast from the past with the previous generation Toyota Harrier.
Unfortunately, we’re afraid that it ends there. When it comes to actual athleticism, in terms of performance, we’re not quite convinced how the new Harrier would pull its weight (convincingly) with the omission of the powerful 2.0-litre turbocharged engine featured in the previous generation model we tested – the
first of the Harriers officially imported into the country by UMW Toyot
a Moto
r
.
On that note, if the response received by UMW Toyota Motor is anything to go by, after the company decided to officially introduce the Harrier in Malaysia along with a comprehensive warranty to stave off competition from local grey importers,
stretching waiting periods to 18 months at one point
, this one should cause the same stir – judging solely on its looks – in a good way, if not a bigger one.


Video: GC Mah drives the BMW 530e eDrive PHEV to Austria

You’ve already seen the specifications of the newly launched
G30 BMW 530e Sport PHEV
 so now let GC Mah tell you what the fifth BMW iPerformance model in Malaysia is like to drive while on his way to Salzburg, Austria.
Launched with a RM 343,800 price tag, the BMW 530e Sport PHEV comes with a 2.0-litre TwinPower Turbo engine with a combined output of
248 hp
 and
 420 Nm
 of torque. Mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, 0 to 100 km/h takes just 6.2 seconds, onward to a top speed of 235 km/h.
For more info on the Malaysian-spec BMW 530e Sport PHEV, watch the brief introductory video hosted by Adrian
here
.


2017 Toyota Prius PHV unveiled, 50km EV range, 1.0L/100 km!

The new Toyota Prius PHV (Plug-in Hybrid) is now officially on sale in Europe. This is the second-gen Prius PHV offered in the continent and boasts an improved EV range of 50km – that’s twice as much as its successor!
Based largely on the
Prius Prime
, the PHV actually looks a little less exciting than the standard
fourth-generation Prius
. Apart from subtle design tweaks to the fascia, the grille now receives an automatic shutter which closes to reduce drag when cooling air isn’t required.

At the back, it has a longer rear overhang and a new rear spoiler adds the final touch to differentiate itself with the standard Prius. Drag coefficient is rated at 0.25, which is slightly higher than the regular Prius and the
Hyundai Ioniq
. The Prius PHV pictured here is finished in the Spirited Aqua colour, and is exclusive to the model.
Just like the other Prius, the
2ZR-FXE 1.8-litre
 Atkinson-cycle petrol engine is paired with a electric motors, delivering a total output of
120 hp
. Power is delivered via the usual e-CVT.
A new and improved
8.8kWh battery
 is double the capacity from before, juicing the new Dual Motor Drive. Toyota says EV power is significantly better (83 percent higher boost) over its predecessor. A full charge from zero takes about three hours using a domestic socket.
It sprints from 0 to 100km/h in
 11.1 seconds
 and top speed is
162 km/h
. What truly stands out is the fuel consumption figure – an unbelievable
1.0 litres per 100 km
! This means the Prius PHV is currently the cleanest PHEV to have ever existed!
The Prius PHV sits atop the
Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA)
, therefore sharing salient traits such as strong and rigid chassis, lower centre of gravity and sharper handling. As for now, the fourth-gen Prius has yet to be offered to our market.
IMAGE GALLERY