Honda enters Guinness World Records with 2015 Civic Tourer – 2.8L/100 km!

Honda has just etched their name into the Guinness World Records book for officially achieving the ‘Lowest Fuel Consumption’ with the 1.6-litre i-DTEC Honda Civic Tourer, averaging an incredible 2.8 litres per 100km after driving nearly 13,500 km across Europe.
The diesel powered Civic Tourer were manned by Fergal McGrath and Julian Warren, both from Honda’s European R&D team. It took them 25 daunting days to drive across 24 European countries, similar to driving from the UK to Australia.
The duo started this record-breaking road trip from Aalst, Belgium on 1 June and went around Europe in a clockwise direction before returning to the exact spot on 25 June. Under Guinness’ rules, both drivers must be in the car throughout the drive, which saw them taking turns behind the wheel, covering close to 612 km (or 380 miles) a day in the span of 7.5 hours.
Every day, for 25 days
.
Both McGrath and Warren managed to cover approximately
 1,500 km on a full tank of fuel
, and needed to
refuel just nine times
 at a total cost of £459 (est
RM2,719
 at press time). They even shattered the Civic Tourer’s quoted fuel efficiency of 3.8 litres per 100km – a full litre down, or 25 percent better!

The drive was based on strict and rigorous guidelines, with Guinness stipulating the
need to enter each of the 24 countries specified
, collecting a range of evidence including a fuel/mileage logbook, GPS readings, video and photographs and independent witness signatures as collection of proofs. To ensure accurate monitoring of the route, journey time and distance driven, the record car was fitted with a tracking device that was provided by fleet telematics and stolen vehicle recovery expert, TRACKER.
Under the rules, the car must be in every way, a standard model in all aspects, with no modifications to create an advantage. So, fancy yourself a diesel-powered Civic, folks?
IMAGE GALLERY


2017 Malaysia Autoshow to take place in MAEPS, biggest ever local show to date!

It’s been a while since we’ve heard of Kuala Lumpur International Motorshow (KLIMS), and recently, the
Malaysia Autoshow
 by Malaysia Automotive Insitute (MAI) has taken over as the country’s premier motor show.
This year’s edition will apparently be taken to the next level with a bigger venue at the Malaysian Agro Exposition Park (MAEPS) in Serdang. Set to be the country’s biggest annual motor show, the event will be held from
9 to 12 November 2017
.

The venue is no stranger to motoring events, having seen shows like Art of Speed and multiple motoring events held from time to time. The convention halls will house new car launches and displays, while the vast parking spaces are ideal for hosting test drive sessions.
Also to note, this year’s winner of the
Malaysia Car of the Year (COTY)
 will be announced by the end of the first day (9 Nov) of the show. In addition, this year’s Malaysia COTY is no longer restricted to new cars sold during the year, instead any available cars sold in the country are eligible to be nominated for the award. Both changes will facilitate car buyers to make pragmatic choices when shopping for a car.
This year’s theme is “
Energy Efficient Vehicles to the Future
”, which focuses primarily on the latest line of energy efficient cars, with autonomous cars also brought into the fray. During the four days, side activities such as safety talks, automotive education expo, food trucks and many more await visitors.
Among the highlights from last year’s show include the exclusive preview of the
Kia Grand Carnival
,
Honda BR-V
,
Hyundai Ioniq
 and
BAIC
cars. At the going rate, we’re pretty sure there will be a few major new car launch or previews that will take place this year. Any guesses which?


This Rolls-Royce Wraith comes with “shooting stars” in its cabin

Rolls-Royce has unveiled a truly mesmerising collection of limited Rolls-Royce Wraiths where only 55 indulgent elitists will get to sample – it’s called the Wraith Luminary.
Chief Executive Officer of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, Torsten Müller-Ötvös said, “Wraith Luminary is a stunning Collection Car. It speaks directly of our contemporary Rolls-Royce brand – progressive and trailblazing; the pinnacle in handcrafted luxury. This is a car that celebrates visionaries who achieve eminence in their respective fields. Indeed, this collection is for the world’s luminaries.”
The colour of choice for these
55 units
 is a newly-developed Sunburst Grey that’s complemented by a hand-painted Sunburst Motif coachline, hand-painted Wake Channel Lines on the bonnet and pinstripes applied to the wheel centres, each in Saddlery Tan – only Google can enlightened you of that flowery language.
The interior is glazed with Tudor Oak wood, sourced from Czech Republic’s forests but here’s the best part – it illuminates. Yes, the wood panels light up!
 176 LEDs
 are embedded into the Tudor Oak’s surface for an effect that mimics the trailing light of a shooting star, at the touch of a button.
It’s a massive step up from the mere glow of the
1340 fibre optic lights that create Rolls-Royce’s famous “starlight headliner”
. Taking nearly 20 hours to configure, eight shooting stars fire at random, predominantly over the front seats – a sight that would definitely drop jaws if not undergarments.
As a final touch, each car bears a ‘WRAITH LUMINARY COLLECTION – ONE OF FIFTY-FIVE’ engraved on hand-polished stainless steel. In Rolls-Royce’s press release, they even ended it the quote, “Rolls-Royce is Bespoke” – says it all really.
IMAGE GALLERY


All-new Honda Civic now in Singapore, only 1.5 Turbo with a cute 129 hp!

A week after making its
ASEAN debut in Thailand
, the all-new 11th-generation Honda Civic is made available in Singapore. Kah Motor, the official Honda distributor in the island nation, is offering just one variant- the 1.5 VTEC Turbo with Honda Sensing on the sedan body.
Being the regular, non-RS variant, the exterior has body-coloured plastics as well as bright chrome trims. The wheel size is smaller too, measuring just 16 inches wrapped with 215/55R16 tyres. The headlamps are halogen projector units with a simpler DRL “brow”.
As for the interior, it features the 7-inch driver’s instrument panel and a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Surprisingly, while the exterior of the
Honda Civic looks basic
, the interior is anything but.
Unlike the Thai model which has Sport drive mode and shift paddles exclusively for the RS variant, the Singapore unit comes standard with these sporty items. Although fitted with just a single zone automatic air-conditioning system, rear passengers have better ventilation thanks to a rear ventilation outlet.
Leather and synthetic materials are used to upholster the seats, where the front seats feature a new body stabilising frame and cushion. The rear seats also have a 60-40 split-folding backrest with three headrests, a feature not available on the Thai model due to the fitment of a structural bar.
Singapore to phase out combustion engines by 2040, incentives for EVs for early adopters beginning this year. More here!
Moving to the engine output, the Honda Civic in Singapore continues to have an exclusive tuning to its power output. The 1.5-litre turbocharged VTEC engine delivers just
129 hp
 and
180 Nm
 of torque. The incredibly low values compared to the rest of the world (
almost 50 hp lower
) is done as such to have the model placed in Category A of the Certificate of Entitlement or COE.
At current bidding prices, a Category A COE is priced at SG$45,000 (approx RM140k), while a Category B COE for engines over 130 hp or 1.6 litres is priced at SG$56,000 (around RM175k). Apart from numerous duties and taxes, the COE is the single biggest contributor to the high prices of private vehicles in Singapore.
While it has low engine outputs, the fuel consumption is not fantastic too, consuming
6.4 litres per 100 km
. The figure quoted by officials in Thailand rated the new Honda Civic EL model to deliver a much lower 5.8 litres per 100 km.
As for safety features, the new Honda Civic gets the full suite of the new and improved Honda Sensing system. The additional feature includes the Lead Car Departure Notification system and better processing of objects in front via a wide-angle camera unit. Honda LaneWatch single camera-based blind spot detection system and a multi-angle rearview camera are standard items in the all-new Honda Civic in Singapore.
The all-new Honda Civic is priced at
SG$122,999
 (approx RM383.7k) and is much higher than its Japanese equivalents- the Toyota Corolla Altis 1.6 Elegance at SG$114,888 while the Mazda 3 1.5 MHEV Elegance SG$116,888.
While cars are expensive in Singapore, the Perodua Aruz is just SG$6,000 cheaper than a Honda Jazz. More about the Perodua Aruz in Singapore here.
Even though the
Volkswagen Golf 1.5 eTSI MHEV
 has higher engine output and shifted into the pricier Category B COE, the low fuel consumption from the hybrid system allows for price rebates and lands to a retail price of SG$125,900.
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2023 Proton X90 launched in Malaysia, from RM123,800

Proton
 has just launched the
2023
Proton X9
0
, its third SUV, third X-series model, and its first hybrid vehicle. Yes, the Proton X90 is available as a hybrid only and runs a 48V mild hybrid system. Prices for the 2023 Proton X90 start at
RM123,800
 and there are four variants available
Proton X90 Standard –
RM123,800
Proton X90 Executive –
RM130,800
Proton X90 Premium –
RM144,800
Proton X90 Flagship –
 RM152,800
By the way, if you’re looking to renew your insurance, you can get a 10% rebate and cash back at the end of your policy if you renew with MotorTakaful by Etiqa. Just log on to
www.motortakaful.com
.
You already know that the Proton X90 is based on the Geely Haoyue/Okavango, but the X90 sports the signature Proton look. You get an evolved version of the infinite weave which resembles a ‘songket’ pattern on the grille, the new Proton logo at the front and back, and a Proton lettering on the tailgate. If anything, the X90 sports a serious and elegant look all around. If you’re wondering, the X90 is about the size of a Mazda CX-8, Hyundai Santa Fe, or Kia Sorento.
Standard exterior equipment on the X90 are:
18-inch alloy wheels
Full LED headlamps
Manual tailgate
The ‘Executive;’ variant adds the following features to the exterior:
Power tailgate
Auto headlamps with Follow-me-Home function
Auto Rain sensing front wipers
Power Tailgate
The ‘Premium’ variant adds:
19-inch alloy wheels
Power tailgate with nearby auto open
While the Flagship variant adds on:
Panoramic sunroof
As for colour options, there are 6 choices for the Proton X90:
Snow White
Armour Silver
Jet Grey
Cinnamon Brown (Executive, Premium, and Flagship only)
Ruby Red (Executive, Premium, and Flagship only)
Marine Blue (Premium and Flagship Only)
RELATED:
2023 Proton X50 R3 Concept previews production model – 200 units only, booking only at MAS2023
Powering the Proton X90 is a sole 48V mild hybrid powertrain. The hybrid system consists of a 1.5-litre 3-cylinder TGDI engine and a Bel Starter Generator (BSG). All power is sent to the front wheels only and the X90 utilises a 7-speed DCT. Details of the X90’s hybrid powertrain are as such:
Powertrain: 48V mild hybrid system, 1.5L 3-cylinder TGDI engine with BSG
System maximum output:
190 hp
 (metric)
System maximum torque:
300 Nm
Engine maximum output: 177 hp (metric)
Engine maximum torque: 255 Nm
BSG maximum output: 13 hp (metric)
BSG maximum torque: 45 Nm
Transmission: 7-Speed DCT
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD)
RELATED:
2023 Proton X90 first drive – decent ride, but hard to hide that 3-cylinder sound
Inside, the Proton X90 comes in both 7-seater and 6-seater configurations. All variants except for the Flagship come with a 7-seater configuration. It’s a generally spacious interior with decent premium touches for a family car.
As standard, the X90 is equipped with the following interior features:
7-seater configuration
Fabric seats
12.3-inch touchscreen head unit
Standard meter cluster
Reverse Camera
Manually-adjustable driver seat
Manually-adjustable front passenger seat
Intelligent entry with push start button
Walk Away Auto Lock
Remote Engine Start
Front welcome lamps
All power windows with anti-trap
Dual-zone automatic climate control
6 speakers
The ‘Executive’ variant adds the following interior features:
Leatherette seats
6- way Power-adjustable driver seat
Ventilated front seats
360° view camera with 3D display
Full LCD meter cluster
Up a tier, the ‘Premium’ variant adds:
Nappa leather seats
Nappa leather steering wheel
Wireless mobile phone charger
6-way Power-adjustable driver seat with lumbar 2-way
4-way Power-adjustable front passenger seat
Auto-dimming rearview mirror
Security tint
Ambient lighting
In its range-topping form, the X90 Flagship gets the above-mentioned features in the ‘Premium’ variant but also adds:
6-seater configiration
2nd-row captain seats
Panoramic sunroof
Power adjustable front passenger seat with ‘Boss Switch’
In the safety department, it is only the ‘Premium’ and ‘Flagship’ variants that are equipped with the full suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). This includes:
Autonomous Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection
Forward Collision Warning
Lane Departure Prevention
Lane Centering Control
Lane Departure Warning
Emergency Lane Keep Assist
Intelligent Cruise Control
Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go
Lane Change Assist
Intelligent High Beam Control
Door Opening Warning
Rear Collision Warning (First for Proton cars)
Rear Cross Traffic Alert (First for Proton cars)
Traffic Sign Information (First for Proton cars)
The Proton X90 is the latest addition to the Proton family that nicely coincides with the 40th-anniversary celebration of the company. Included in the price of the 2023 Proton X90 is a
5-year/unlimited mileage
 manufacturer warranty. It also comes with:
6 times free labour for servicing
5-year data package worth 1GB a month
Loan interest rates from 2.1% per annum
Proton Insurance Programme
Early birds enjoy the following special offers:
5-year data package extra 4GB/month
Proton X-watch worth RM1,499
Accessories Package worth RM779
Upgraded Proton Insurance Programme

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Throwback Thursday: The original Proton Saga’s adorable TV commercial

Today’s car commercials are explosive, exciting and mostly on YouTube instead of the television. The products they’re advertising now have also seen a significant revolution, to an extent not imaginable by anyone just under a decade ago.
This brings us to a classic Proton advertisement from the late 1980s that’s so adorable, it can’t not be revisited for old times’ sake. The subject in question was our national brand’s first step into the foray of “automotive production”, the
Proton

Saga
.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mVIfxmEZ-N4
It’s hilarious watching how Proton tried to prove a point by using a group of mere mortals to test the rigidity and build quality of the Saga.
The “tests” included kicking on the wheels and tyres, knocking on the doors and bumpers with merely a fist along with placing a large man in the boot – presumably to test the Saga’s trunk space and suspension.
Famously known to be based on the Mitsubishi Lancer Fiore, Proton flagged off their first offspring with a 1.3-litre, eight valve engine, which was later on followed by more powerful 12 valve, 1.3-litre and 1.5-litre engines.
The
current Saga
 is testament to how far Proton has come with its vehicle developments.
Think of it how you will but along with a 3-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual transmission, the original Proton Saga was a cheap and practical means of transportation for those on a budget.
As critical as some were, it really wasn’t that bad an idea to base our first ever national car on an established and reliable Japanese platform as we just weren’t technologically-equipped then to develop one on our own.
Sure enough, it went on to sell by the truckloads and it’s hard to imagine anyone not having a prior experience behind the wheel or at least been driven in Malaysia’s monument of vehicle production.
Credit:
YouTube


BMW Malaysia teases BMW 5 Series facelift – registration of interest now open

After making its debut in the neighbouring Singapore and
Thailand
, it seems like we will soon be able to taste the updated BMW 5 Series facelift too, based on a new
teaser post
 on BMW Malaysia’s social media pages.
Attached to the post is a link to the registration-of-interest page (
here
) on the local arm’s website, where two variants are listed – the 530e M Sport plug-in hybrid and the ICE-only 530i M Sport. We’re not sure if BMW Malaysia will be dropping the 520i Luxury variant – but we’ll certainly miss it if they do – it was honestly
one of the best cars we’ve driven in 2019
!
Revealed globally in May last year
, the updated BMW 5 Series sports a new front fascia with sharper-looking headlights and a more squared-off kidney grille. Over at the rear, the tail lights now gets a three-dimensional lens with smoked surrounds for a sportier appearance.
530e M Sport plug-in hybrid
530i M Sport
Based on the listing on BMW Malaysia’s website, the 530i M Sport looks to be the range-topping variant, with additional exterior features including the fancier BMW Laser Light headlights (with blue DRL surrounds), alongside what looks like a sunroof up top. To be clear though, these images are more likely than not just placeholders, so we’ll have to wait until the actual launch to confirm the specifications.
Being a mid-cycle update model, the interior is expectedly quite similar from the outgoing model. The most apparent change will be the now-larger 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display on the dashboard, up from the 10.25-inch units on the current model.
Mechanically wise, both variants should remain fairly similar to their respective outgoing model. The 530i features a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine underneath the bonnet, with power output figures unchanged at
252 hp
 and
350 Nm
 of torque. The engine is paired to an eight-speed automatic gearbox to send drive to the rear wheels.
Just as before, the same 2.0-litre turbocharged engine is down-tuned on the 530e, but paired to an electric motor for a combined system output of
252 hp
 and
420 Nm
 of torque. However, the powertrain now gets a new XtraBoost function, which adds on an extra 40 hp for a maximum duration of 10 seconds whenever necessary.
No information have been provided on the pricing of these new models, but do expect them to be around the ballpark of the outgoing models – RM334k for the 530e plug-in hybrid, and RM364k for the 530i M Sport, both inclusive of the
sales tax exemptions
.


Porsche adds more style to substance with new Cayenne Platinum Edition

Porsche is welcoming the new year with style by unveiling a new special edition model for the Cayenne SUV, called the “Platinum Edition”. The new special edition will be offered for the standard
Cayenne
,
Cayenne E-Hybrid
, and
Cayenne S
variants, as well as their corresponding
Coupé
 counterparts.
Sharp-eyed readers will notice that this isn’t the first time Porsche is offering up the Platinum Edition treatment – the same special edition was also
 unveiled for the Panamera
 in November last year. While the name didn’t make much sense on the Panamera, it’s at least somewhat logical for the Cayenne, as Porsche shipped its one millionth unit of the SUV back in 2020.
But “going platinum” here doesn’t have anything to do with sales figures; just like the Panamera, the Porsche Cayenne Platinum Edition is merely a cosmetic exercise, characterised by several model-specific details finished in a satin Platinum paintjob.
RELATED: CKD Porsche Cayenne now open for pre-orders – RM550k, deliveries start March 2022
These touches include the inlays of the air intakes up front, the ‘Porsche’ lettering within the LED rear light strip, the model designation emblem at the rear, as well as the Platinum Edition-exclusive 21-inch RS Spyder Design wheels.
For contrast, the sport tailpipes and side window trims are painted in black to “further emphasise the sporty, elegant look” of the special edition model.
As standard, the Platinum Edition model will be offered in Mahogany and Moonlight Blue exterior shades, alongside a variety of monochrome options including “Crayon” – a Porsche-specific hue of light grey. But with enough money, we’re sure Porsche will paint your Cayenne Platinum Edition in any colour you so wish.
The special “platinum” touches extend to the Cayenne’s interior, featuring a new brushed aluminium door sill plate with the ‘Platinum Edition’ logo, textured aluminium interior package, silver-coloured trims (
odd
), light grey – or “Crayon” in Porsche speak – coloured seat belts, and standard-issue Porsche Crest on the headrests.
Aside from just aesthetic touches, the Porsche Cayenne Platinum Edition also comes with a several additional standard features, including the Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS) LED headlights, a panoramic sunroof, privacy glass, a Bose surround-sound system, ambient lighting, eight-way powered sports seats, as well as an analogue clock on the dashboard.
As usual, the car can be further personalised with a variety of options for both its interior and exterior via the Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur programme.
Everything on the Porsche Cayenne Platinum Edition mechanical side is unchanged from their respective standard cars. Which means the base Cayenne model still comes with a
340 hp
 3.0-litre turbocharged V6, while the Cayenne S packs a 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 with
440 hp
 on offer.
The Cayenne E-Hybrid meanwhile pairs the 3.0-litre V6 with an electric motor and a 17.9 kWh battery for a combined output of
 462 hp
.
Over in the UK, the Porsche Cayenne Platinum Edition starts at £69,230 (approx. RM396k), while the Cayenne Coupé Platinum Edition kicks off at £70,350 (approx. RM402k). It’s now available for order, with deliveries in Germany beginning May 2022.
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Isuzu Malaysia’s new 3S Centre in KL pilots a new retail outlet design

Isuzu Malaysia
 has unveiled a new 3S centre in Kuala Lumpur today, showcasing a new retail outlet design. With a bolder and more vibrant façade and a distinctive logo tower, the new outlet design is more recognizable to customers.
Sitting on 1,400 square metres of land, the 3S facility at Jalan Jinjang Permai in the northern part of Kuala Lumpur offers a full range of Isuzu products and services. The products range from the Isuzu D-Max pickup trucks to light-, medium-, heavy-duty lorries and prime movers.
Isuzu Malaysia Chief Executive Officer, Sunsuke Okazoe said, “This new outlet features a strong brand image to reflect the changing outlook of Isuzu’s retail business. The modern design elements and improved facilities are designed to ensure customers not only purchase the best products, but also receive a corresponding sales and after-sales experience under one roof.”
The showroom section of the Isuzu 3S facility features an air-conditioned interior where pick-up trucks are displayed and a sheltered foyer where lorries can be viewed in comfort. The outlet also boasts a spacious service centre that can accommodate up to four light-duty vehicles and two medium-duty trucks simultaneously.
RELATED:
Getting down and dirty – Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain named official media car in upcoming Borneo Safari
Customers bringing their vehicles in for after-sales attention can enjoy refreshments in the lounge as trained technicians care for their Isuzu vehicles.
Distinguishing new Isuzu outlets from the rest is a prominently featured Isuzu logo and a logo tower at the entrance. 3S centres that offer truck after-sales care will feature a large forecourt for ease of parking and manoeuvring of trucks.
RELATED:
Lucky shopper wins Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain after spending just RM300
The new design also revamps the interior of the Isuzu outlets. Among the main highlights are:
Welcoming façade & friendly reception area
Cozy lighting and inviting ambience
Merchandise corner for Isuzu enthusiasts
Environmentally friendly digital information panels
Dedicated delivery bay for pick-up trucks
Spacious & modern display areas including hero car viewing space
RELATED:
Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain styles up for 2022 KL Fashion Week
The new Isuzu 3S facility in Kuala Lumpur will be the first outlet to feature the new outlook with others around the country following suit. The entire transformation exercise will take approximately 2 years to complete with the entire network expected to showcase the new identity by December 2024.
RELATED:
Isuzu D-Max achieves new sales record in H1 of 2022


The Rolls-Royce Spectre EV is here to fulfil its founder’s prophecy, 122 years later

You’ll probably never hear “Rolls-Royce” and “eco-friendly” in the same sentence, but yet an electric
Rolls-Royce
 just makes perfect sense – so much so that its co-founder, Charles Rolls, prophesised it some 122 years ago. This is the
Spectre
, and it’s about to rewrite Rolls-Royce’s history.
The reason for an electric RR, as you’d expect, isn’t exactly for eco-friendliness. Instead, it’s to emphasise and amplify all of the things that make a Rolls-Royce, a Rolls-Royce – “instant torque, silent running, and the sense of one imperceptible gear”.
“The electric car is perfectly noiseless and clean. There is no smell or vibration. They should become very useful when fixed charging stations can be arranged,” Charles Rolls apparently said in 1900, four years before he eventually started the Rolls-Royce company with Henry Royce. And it’s surprising how much he got right – including the part about charging infrastructure.
While final specifications of the electric powertrain are still being refined, preliminary data suggests that the Rolls-Royce Spectre will offer up to
430 kW (576 hp)
 and
900 Nm
 of torque, and a range of
520 km
 on the WLTP test cycle. The powertrain will take the Spectre from 0-100 km/h in just
4.5 seconds
, all while being vibration-free and virtually quiet inside.
All of it rides on what Rolls-Royce calls the “Architecture of Luxury”, a purpose-built aluminium platform that is said to be 30% stiffer than any Rolls-Royce before it. The battery sits underneath the floor, which also doubles as a 700 kg-heavy sound deadening device.
For the marque’s signature Magic Carpet Ride, the Spectre also gets a unique “Planar” suspension system that can decouple the anti-roll bars on straight roads, allowing each wheel to act independently.
The anti-roll bars automatically recouples when the Flagbearer system detects an imminent corner via GPS and cameras, with the suspension dampers stiffened to ensure effortless entry and exit, working in conjunction with the four-wheel steering.
RELATED:
Rolls-Royce says its upcoming Spectre EV will be built to last 400 years
 As for the rest of the car, well, it’s typical Rolls-Royce. Apparently inspired by yachts, the Rolls-Royce Spectre takes the form of an “Ultra-Luxury Electric Super Coupe”, with a swoopy silhouette sculpted by 830 hours of wind-tunnel aero testing.
The Spectre boasts a drag coefficient of 0.25 Cd, making it the most aerodynamic car RR has ever made. That was in part achieved with the
redesigned Spirit of Ecstasy
, now with a more “dynamic stance”.
Despite this being a fully-electric vehicle, the Spectre still gets an illuminated grille up front. In fact, it’s the widest grille RR has ever fitted onto a car, and it’s flanked by a set of
BMW 7 Series-esque
 split headlights. Basically, if no one told you that it was electric, you probably wouldn’t know.
Thanks to its monstrous proportions (it’s longer than the Wraith and wider than even the Phantom), Rolls-Royce says that the Spectre “required” the 23-inch wheels in order to fill up its wheel wells, and it’s the first production two-door coupe to be equipped with wheels that big in almost a hundred years.
Open the rear-hinged doors, and you’ll be greeted by a very familiar Rolls-Royce atmosphere – just with a lot more light. The signature Starlight headliner is now complemented by the Spectre’s new Starlight Doors, which adds another 4,796 “stars” to envelop the passengers in the night sky.
ALSO READ:
Rolls-Royce has the youngest buyers among all BMW Group brands
There’s also a new Illuminated Fascia on the Spectre’s dashboard, which incorporates the Spectre nameplate surrounded by a cluster of over 5,500 stars.
The Spectre will mark the beginning of Rolls-Royce’s electrification plan, where the company aims to have its entire line-up be fully-electric by 2030. Deliveries for the Spectre will begin in the fourth quarter of 2023, although official pricing has yet to be announced just yet.
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BMW Japan’s X7 “Nishijin Edition” features the most exquisite upholstery option we’ve ever seen!

BMW Japan is known for their exquisite special editions, featuring unique Japanese craftsmanship that puts even the Maybachs to shame. Following last year’s
M850i “Kyoto Edition”
 that showed off the art of traditional Japanese lacquering, the carmaker’s local arm has once again introduced a new special edition model, this time based on the
BMW X7
.
Called the “Nishijin Edition”, the special BMW X7 is only available in one single exterior colour, a special BMW Individual exclusive called Ametrine Metallic. The name is a portmanteau of Amethyst and Citrine, and thanks to the use of multiple pigments such as aluminum flakes and mica in a multi-layer coating, the paint job can appear as different shades of red, purple, or brown, depending on the angle and surrounding lighting conditions.
BMW Japan’s new 8 Series Frozen Black Edition is… unnecessarily dark. Check it out for yourself here.
But the main highlight of the BMW X7 Nishijin Edition is actually on the interior, which showcases the unique “
Nishijin-ori
” dyeing and weaving technique from Kyoto, Japan.
Said to be originated from the Kofun period, the gorgeous artisanal fabric art is woven together using a variety of coloured threads and foils, and has been used on everything from costumes to furnishing, and was also particularly fancied by the Japanese imperial family.
The
Nishijin-ori
 technique involves more than 20 different processes, including twisting, warping, and weaving, and that’s why it’s only hand-made by a very niche group of skilled craftsmen in Japan.
The BMW X7 xDrive40i is now available as a locally-assembled model here in Malaysia! Learn more here.
For the X7 Nishijin Edition, BMW Japan specifically chose the design of “
Keiun
” (roughly translates to “festive wind”), a name given to the Japanese era that spanned from the year 704 through 708 that is supposedly used in a congratulatory manner.
The craftsmen use a variety of silk threads meshed with Japanese gold foil-pressed papers in what’s called a “pulling foil” technique to create an artisanal fabric with a three-dimensional feel and look, which is then applied onto the centre armrest and headlining.
There’s also a matching trim piece on the centre console and dashboard, featuring a traditional Japanese technique called “five-colour gold layering” that uses a blend of gold and silver foil and pigment applied in five different layers to give it a different shimmering effect depending on the surrounding lighting conditions – just like its exterior!
BMW Singapore meanwhile introduced the iX3 ‘Legend Edition’ to celebrate the new Marvel film, Shang-Chi! Check it out here.
The BMW X7 Nishijin Edition is based on the xDrive40d Pure Excellence trim, and just like the M850i, only three units will be made available. It’s priced at JPY16,800,000 (approx. RM631k), which is roughly 30% more than the standard car. Though, with the amount of artisanal craftsmanship put into every car, we’d say it’s worth it.
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Porsche fans set to suffer cash shortage with new 911 Turbo & Targa LEGO set

Yes, we’re guilty of showing how cool the
488 GTE LEGO TECHNIC
 set was in our previous unboxing video last week – possibly leading to higher credit card debts for some – but it would be a sin not to share this one, the new Porsche 911 Turbo LEGO set!
911 Targa?
Or 911 Turbo?
The coolest part about this 2-in-1 LEGO set is that the pieces can either form a fixed roof 911 Turbo, or if you feel like it, an open-roofed 911 Targa! It’s even cooler and more feasible as a collector’s item than the
life-sized 911 LEGO
they built a couple of years ago!
On both the fixed and open-top 911s, the seats and dashboard are finished in dark orange and nougat, a colour based on upholstery options from the actuall Porsche 911. Other more intricate details include a handbrake, gear lever and functional steering. True to the 911’s versatile nature, the front seats can be tilted forward to get to the rear seats!
What’s even more realistic is that the 911 Targa’s roof (if you decide to build it over the fixed roof Turbo) can be stored underneath the hood of the car! Once remove, the iconic Targa bar (in Black) becomes more prominent.
“As we were designing the car, the hardest decision to make was whether we would make the Turbo or Targa variant of the car. It was such a tough call that we engineered the ability to build the LEGO Porsche 911 Turbo and Targa from a single set,” a representative of LEGO said.
Early birds of the 911 LEGO set will also receive a “certificate of ownership”, an official LEGO Porsche card wallet and a set of unique art prints based on Porsche 911 advertisements, in a smart collector’s wallet. It’s available in limited numbers for orders placed through the LEGO VIP loyalty program.
The Porsche 911 Turbo and Targa LEGO set is available from the 16th of February onwards, from USD149.99 (approx. RM606).
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The adorable Hyundai Ioniq 5 EV looks half the size it actually is

Hyundai has unveiled the Ioniq 5, its first fully-electric model under the new
Ioniq sub-brand
, and if retro-inspired styling excites you, you’ll have to check out the gallery below.
While it may look small in photos, the all-new Ioniq 5 is actually marketed as a “midsize CUV” (or crossover), and it’s dimensions don’t lie. Built on Hyundai’s new
Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP)
, the Ioniq 5 measures in at 4,635 mm long, 1,605 mm tall, and 1,890 mm wide – just a hair smaller than a
BMW X3
 in almost every dimension.
What gives the Ioniq 5 its small-car illusion is perhaps its elongated wheelbase, which stands at a whopping 3,000 mm long – that’s almost as long as that of the
BMW 7 Series
! As with most BEV-specific platforms, the skateboard layout of the E-GMP platform allows for a completely flat cabin floor inside the Hyundai Ioniq 5, which means interior space should be aplenty.
Styling wise, the all-new Ioniq 5 looks nearly identical stroke-for-stroke to the Hyundai 45 Concept, a markedly different design language to past Hyundai models. Taking in inspiration from the Hyundai Pony, the company’s first production vehicle released some 45 years ago, the all-new Ioniq 5 utilises clean and direct lines to “reflect the silence of EVs”, according to Hyundai Group chief creative officer Luc Donckerwolke.
Up front, the clamshell bonnet (a first for Hyundai) helps minimise panel gaps for enhanced aerodynamics, while lower down, the bumper takes on a unique V-shape design, framing the headlights into a single blacked-out rectangle area, just like the Hyundai Pony.
Hyundai’s ‘Parametric Dynamics’ design language is also present here, as seen in the distinctive pixel-like cluster daytime-running lights and rear combination tail lamp light signature. Even the controversial Z-shaped character lines first seen on the all-new Elantra is also mirrored here on the side new Ioniq 5 – which, if we’re being honest, looks a lot more homogenous with the cleaner lines of the EV.
Like many other EVs, the door handles also automatically retract when not in use to provide a clean surface, working together with the 20-inch aero-optimised wheels to enhance the overall aerodynamic efficiency. According to Hyundai, the 20-inch wheels are the largest “ever fitted to a Hyundai EV”.
Inside, Hyundai says that the Ioniq 5 embraces a ‘Living Space’ theme, most notably embodied by the ‘Universal Island’ – a moveable centre console that can slide back as much as 140 mm, allowing for a more flexible space inside the vehicle.
Other interior highlights include a pair of 12-inch screens serving as the instrument cluster and infotainment screens, electrically-adjustable seats that can recline almost completely flat, augmented-reality head-up display, as well as the use of eco-friendly, recycled materials such as PET bottles and plant-based yarns on most of the interior touchpoints.
The Ioniq 5 will be made available with two battery configurations (58 kWh or 72.6 kWh) and two electric motor layouts, RWD (single motor) or AWD (two motors). The top of the range configuration with two motors is capable of a power output of
225 kWh (302 hp)
 and
605 Nm
 of torque, which translates to a century sprint time of around
5.2 seconds
.
With the 2WD configuration paired to the 72.6 kWh battery, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 boasts a maximum driving range of around
470-480 km
, based on the WLTP cycle.
Featuring a 800V electrical architecture, the Ioniq 5 is also capable of charging at a maximum rate of 350 kW, refilling the Ioniq 5 from 10-80% in just 18 minutes, or taking just five minutes for a 100 km fully-electric driving range.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 also comes onboard with vehicle-to-grid charging, which is pretty rare in the current crop of electric cars. In addition to just charging laptops or other appliances via the plug socket underneath the seat (V2L), the Ioniq 5 can also essentially act as a mini generator when it is plugged in, providing electricity directly back to the local grid (depending on individual grid support).
In certain countries where electricity charges are based on the time of the day, this could lead to significant savings for the customers. Certainly a nicety to have!
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Video: Hyundai Kona 2.0 & 1.6 Turbo, 5 Things

There’s a funky fresh new kid on the block in Malaysia’s hottest segment and unlike
Proton’s latest golden egg
, the
new Hyundai Kona
 comes with two different engine options to choose from. There are
3 variants
 available – the 2.0, the 2.0 Active, and 1.6 Turbo.
The 2.0-litre models come with
149 hp
and
 180 Nm
 and are fitted with a 6-speed automatic transmission while the more powerful 1.6 Turbo model will offer
177 hp
 and
 165 Nm
 at your disposal. With a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox, rest assured acceleration will be smooth with brisk gear changes.
As for equipment, the higher spec models will come with LED headlamps, while the base model makes do with halogen projector headlamps. Depending on which variant you get, the Kona will come with either 17-inch or 18-inch wheels. As for the dual tone exterior with a blacked out roof and roof rack, that’s exclusive to the 1.6 Turbo model.

The Kona gets even funkier on the inside. Depending on the colour of your exterior, the Kona’s interior trims will come with a contrasting colour. The base model will get full fabric upholstery while the top spec 1.6 Turbo model comes with full leather.
Opt for the top two variants and you’d get a larger digital display on the instrument cluster, 8-way powered driver seat, and a head-0up display. Standard across the board include the 7-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 6 speakers, automatic headlamp feature, a tyre pressure monitoring system, two USB ports, reverse camera, and cruise control.
All variants are equipped with 6 airbags, however only the 1.6 Turbo model gets adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, forward collision warning, and autonomous emergency braking.
Prices for the Kona start from
RM123,888
 for the 2.0,
RM 138,888
for the 2.0 Active, and finally
RM151,888
 for the 1.6 Turbo. To sweeten the deal, HSDM is offering a
“special introductory price”
of RM115,888 for the 2.0, RM130,888 for the 2.0 Active, and RM143,888 for the 1.6 Turbo. You and I both know why.


BMW i Charging Stations now available in Ipoh, first of its kind in Perak

BMW Malaysia and Tian Siang Premium Auto, the authorised dealer of BMW vehicles, has just unveiled three new BMW i Charging Stations at the level four carpark of WEIL Hotel, Ipoh. The first of its kind in Ipoh and the state of Perak.
The new charging stations at WEIL Hotel, Ipoh arrives following the introduction of BMW i Charging Stations at Holiday Inn Melaka and The Equatorial Melaka by Seong Hoe Premium Motors as well as CityONE Megamall Kuching by Regas Premium Auto Sarawak.
Managing Director and CEO of BMW Group Malaysia, Mr Harald Hoelzl said: “The introduction of these new BMW i Charging Stations for the first time here in Perak further demonstrates our ongoing commitment to drive Future Mobility in the country.”
Mr Tan Ka Kin, Dealer Principal of Tian Siang Premium Auto, meanwhile, added that 2017 was also a successful year for the premium dealership. He said, “We delivered over 400 BMW vehicles in the State of Perak last year. More than 45% of these vehicles comprised of BMW iPerformance vehicles and this number will continue to grow steadily. It is only natural that we take a step forward to further develop the charging infrastructure together with our premium partners here in the State.”
Like the charging stations offered by Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM), anyone and everyone are welcome to charge their electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles, regardless of the make and model, at the BMW i Charging Stations.
Also present at the launch was Executive Director of WEIL Hotel Ipoh, Mr Liew Yu-Wei who commented: “At WEIL, we are dedicated to satisfying our customers through authentic best-in-class hospitality, a belief similar to that of Tian Siang Premium Auto. With our strategic location as a transit hub for many local and international tourists, business travellers and families, we believe that the addition of BMW i Charging Stations will further provide our guests with a truly connected lifestyle.”
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If you’re going to buy the new G29 BMW Z4, avoid getting it in Black

Because in that colour, it doesn’t show off the prominence of the car’s actual design, swoops and curves; it’s just not flattering.
So in conjunction with the launch of the new G20 BMW 330i M Sport, BMW Group Malaysia also cheekily previewed the new G29 BMW Z4 – specifically a left-hand drive M40i model.
However, we won’t be getting one of those. The model we’ll be getting instead is the
 sDrive30i
where it is expected to cost under RM500,000.
The sDrive30i will be powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine making
 258 hp
 and
400 Nm
, just like the 330i M Sport launched today. 0 to 100 km/h is done in just 5.4 seconds, quicker than the 330i’s 5.8 seconds.
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Mitsubishi Malaysia launches brand new 3S centre in Chan Sow Lin, KL

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM), together with Sing Swung Jidosha Sdn Bhd, an authorised dealer for Mitsubishi, has just officially opened the doors to their 55
th
 Mitsubishi dealership. Strategically located in the city centre of Kuala Lumpur, the 30,000 square feet facility is prepared to serve the growing demands for Mitsubishi owners in Kuala Lumpur.
Located at Jalan Chan Sow Lin, this showroom is a full fledge 3S centre with a body & paint facility situated nearby. This is MMM’s second 3S centre in Kuala Lumpur, adding to the existing 46 3S centres operating throughout Malaysia.
The 3S Centre is equipped with
seven service bays
 and among them, three bays are dedicated for major repair works such as engine overhaul or transmission repair. The other four bays are dedicated for general service work. MMM has also equipped the service centre to be compliant with Alam Flora to recycle their waste.
Customers who send in their Mitsubishis here will be entitled to a
complimentary
 car wash upon completion of the service. According to MMM, the Chan Sow Lin 3S centre has the capacity to service up to 24 cars a day. A Mitsubishi Body & Paint facility is located just around the corner of the 3S centre which operates under the same management.
To further celebrate this auspicious event, Sing Kwung Jidosha will be organising a Count and Win contest from 21 to 25 September 2016. Guests are invited to guess the number of balloons in the
Triton Adventure X
 Fullbox and stand a chance to win travel vouchers worth up to RM1,500 to Bali, Indonesia.
In addition to that, Mitsubishi customers will be offered a free vehicle inspection on their vehicle’s brakes and tyre rotations. Customers can also enjoy 15 percent discount on selected vehicle parts and a 20 percent discount on labour fee for any Body & Paint repair.


Lego’s new range of vehicle sets will make you wish that you’re a kid again

Lego
 has just introduced its latest range of vehicle sets, dubbed BuildTheThrills here in Malaysia. And even though the most technically challenging set is rated for kids aged nine and up, we young-at-heart adults too can have a world of fun with them, just as we did over the weekend building all of these.
The BuildTheThrills collection ranges from City, Speed Champions, and Creator 3-in-1 series, to the more complex Technic builds, so there’s bound to be a dream car for every child (or adult) to “live out their racing fantasy”.
Sitting at the top of the range are the two Lego Technic models:
Ford Mustang Shelby GT500
(RM249.90), and Formula E Porsche 99X Electric (RM219.90). Uniquely, both models feature pull-back motors, which means that these models can actually propel itself without a human pushing them!
Video: Unboxing (and assembling) the LEGO TECHNIC Ferrari 488 GTE!
Lego has also introduced a new augmented reality (AR) app together with these new models, which means you’ll even be able to drag race against your friends, while adding several special AR experiences including creating your very own drag strip, replete with unique landscapes.
Next up are the new Speed Champions models, headlined by the Lotus Evija (RM89.90) and 1970 Ferrari 512M (RM89.90). As usual, they’re recreated in Lego form in stunning details despite their smaller size, and even features a Lego driver for the full race car experience.
For fans of American muscle, Lego is also offering the Chevrolet Corvette C8.R Race Car and 1968 Chevrolet Corvette together as a duo pack (RM199.90), with 512 individual pieces of fun.
Other highlights of the range include the Creator 3-in-1 Street Racer (RM89.90), which lets you rebuild the set in three different configurations ranging from an SUV-like souped-up “street racer” model with side pipes (!) and a massive rear spoiler, to a out-and-out race car reminiscent of the 2008 Formula 1 cars.
There’s also the City line-up, which includes a 46-piece Race Car model (RM39.90), a City Police Car (RM39.90), a Mobile Crane (RM179.90), and even multiple combo packs to let your kids live out their dream city lives.
The new Lego vehicle sets are available now across the Lego Certified Stores nationwide, Lego Official Stores on Lazada and Shopee, Legoland, as well as major retailers and department stores in Malaysia.
As a celebration of the new BuildTheThrills range, Lego has even built a life-sized 3D version of the Speed Champions 1970 Ferrari 512M build, taking 480 hours to build with 78,496 bricks, weighing 280 kg in total. The model will be on display at the Lego Certified Store at 1 Utama from 11-20 March, before making another pitstop at the Sunway Pyramid store from 25 March to 3 April 2022.
ALSO READ: This full-scale LEGO Toyota Supra can be driven up to 28 km/h!
Customers who share a picture with the life-sized build, along with the hashtags #LEGOMY and #BUILDTHETHRILLS will also receive an exclusive Lego vehicle gift at the Lego Certified Stores.
As for those living in the Northern states, you can also catch the Lego ATV display at the Queensbay Mall Certified Store in Penang, from 21-31 March 2022.
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Lego Technic Ford Mustang Shelby GT500
Lego Technic Formula E Porsche 99X Electric
Lego Creator 3-in-1 Street Racer
Lego Speed Champions Ferrari 512M
Lego Speed Champions Lotus Evija
Lego City Race Car
Lego City Police Car


New Honda Civic Type R spotted in camouflage at Tokyo Auto Salon

Japan’s top automotive tuner and aftermarket accessories show called the Tokyo Auto Salon is back this weekend. Many automakers also take the opportunity to display their performance models with Honda simply setting up a booth for their yet-to-be-launched Honda Civic Type R.
The Honda Civic Type R Prototype, based on the 11th generation
Civic hatchback
 is making a brief display at the Tokyo Auto Salon, after undergoing development work at the famed
Suzuka Circuit
 last month.

Draped with the catchy camouflage artwork made up of silhouettes of all the previous generation Honda Civic Type R models, the definitive hot hatchback had its first round of technical evaluation done at
Nurburgring circuit
 in Germany.
RELATED: All-new Honda Civic sedan launched in Malaysia, priced at RM125k

Honda says it’s the best performing Civic Type R ever and will be officially unveiled later this year. No figures on the model has been shared and it’s expected to continue with the proven 2.0-litre VTEC TURBO engine. Outputs are expected to remain the same, in the region of 320 hp and 400 Nm and paired with a slick-shifting six-speed manual transmission.
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Honda Civic Type R Prototype, Suzuka Circuit
Honda Civic Type R Prototype


Audi Q3 facelift now on sale in Malaysia, two variants available from RM218k

If you find the
new F48 BMW X1
 (RM280k, CBU) a tad too expensive for a vehicle in its class, consider this. Audi Malaysia has confirmed that the
facelifted Q3
 will now be on sale with two variants on offer. Just like before, both 1.4-litre and 2.0-litre TFSI variants will be sold, each priced from RM217,900 and RM252,900 respectively.
In terms of dimensions, this new model is no different from the previous as the changes done are strictly aesthetic (on the outside at least) with design improvements starting from the sculpted
Singleframe grille
 that underlines the Q3’s Audi lineage. In addition to that, the
redesigned
 front
headlamps
 comes packed up with the new
xenon-plus
 technology and LED
DRLs
 that are both
familiar
 yet strikingly new at the same time.

Up to the job of propelling the new Q3 is a modest choice of
 two engine options
. The base model is kitted out with a
 1.4-litre TFSI
 mill that chucks out
150 hp
 and
250 Nm
 of twist which is paired up to a
six-speed S-Tronic
 gearbox. This in turn makes the Q3 capable of accelerating from 0 to 100km/h in a brisk
8.9 seconds
 whilst having a combined fuel consumption rating of just
6.0 litres per 100km
.
On the other hand, the range topper is armed with a
 2.0-litre TFSI
 lump which will churn out
180 hp
 and an impressive
 320 Nm
 of torque that’s readily available from between
 1,400
 and
 3,900 rpm
. Now, instead of a six-cogger like the 1.4-litre, this one is paired to a
 seven-speed S-tronic
 transmission and Audi’s legendary
Quattro permanent all-wheel drive
 system for an unmistakably sure-footed driving experience. In turn, it’ll do the century sprint in a brisk
7.6 seconds
 (0.2 seconds faster than its predecessor), whilst still racking up an impressive fuel figure of only
6.7 litres per 100km
.
Vorsprung durch technik
indeed.
It’s business as per usual on the inside of this premium compact crossover SUV.
Leather
 is generously used throughout the cabin, and the upholstery and trimmings are all enveloped in soft plush leather with brushed
aluminium
 inlays and door sill trims. Not forgetting too the four-spoke hide wrapped
multi-function steering wheel
 that’s a brilliant mash up of sporty elegance and functionality, typical of the brand that is.
Elsewhere, in terms of infotainment, the refreshed Audi Q3 comes with the standard
MMI Radio
 system which features a
 6.5-inch TFT
 display and the
6-channel
 amplifier with
10 speakers

a-la
 Audi sound system.
The driver isn’t left perched up in the hot seat without gadgets either, considering that Q3 comes with a butt-load of toys such as
start/stop
 system (now on the 1.4-litre model as well),
Parking aid plus
 (with an upgrade to Parking assist with
360°
 display on the 2.0-litre variant),
Hill-start assist
, automatic luggage compartment lid,
 Electronic Stabilisation Control
 (ESC) which includes
Traction Control
 (ASR),
Electronic Brake Force Distribution
 (EBD),
Electronic Differential Lock
 (EDL) and of course Anti-lock Braking System (
ABS
) and a total of
six
 airbags.
The new Audi Q3 is available in
five
 colour choices:
Glacier White
,
Floret Silver
,
 Utopia Blue
,
Tundra Brown
 and
Brilliant Black
. Now open for bookings at all authorised Audi dealerships from October 12, the refreshed Audi Q3 1.4 TFSI retails at
RM 217,900
 whilst the new Audi Q3 2.0 TFSI Quattro is priced at
RM 252,900
.

We’ll bring you a full picture gallery of both Audi Q3s real soon, so stay tuned!
IMAGE GALLERY


2023 MINI Electric updated in Malaysia – panoramic sunroof, heated seats, new colour, RM193k

MINI Malaysia has launched the updated 2023 MINI Electric, alongside the new facelift BMW 3 Series which includes the
320i
,
330i
 and
330e
. The
facelift version
 of the MINI Electric was launched in June 2021.
Prices for the MINI Electric starts from RM193,834 on-the-road, inclusive of a two-year warranty. With the four-year extended warranty and service package, prices start from RM199,164. Each purchase is also accompanied with MINI Public Charging Cables with one-year ChargeNow subscription.
As it is merely an update, new features in the MINI Electric includes a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats along with the new Nanuq White colour. The new colour adds to the existing Midnight Black and White Silver.
The MINI Electric is driven by a single, front-mounted electric motor that produces 184 hp and 270 Nm of torque. The electric motor draws power from a 28.9 kWh battery that offers up to 232 km of electric range based on the WLTP cycle.
The MINI’s 0-100 km/h time is rated at 7.3 seconds, with a top speed of 150 km/h. Charging the MINI Electric with a 11kW AC charger takes just 3.5 hours for a full charge and 36 minutes to get from 10-80% state of charge (SoC) using a 50 kW CCS2 DC fast charger.
Standard kit for the exterior includes 17-inch Power Spoke wheels with run-flat tyres, adaptive LED headlamps, Exterior Mirror and Light Package. Inside, the MINI Electric features a head-up display, five-inch digital instrument cluster, 8-8-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay, 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and dual-zone air-conditioning.
As for driver aids, the MINI comes with the Park Assist and the Driving Assistant package which includes features such as lane departure warning, autonomous emergency braking, Approach Control Warning, Light City Braking. The MINI Electric is fitted with six airbags.
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Audi Centre Setia Alam reopens, now under Goh Brothers Motor

The
 new official Audi distributor in Malaysia
, PHS Automotive Malaysia (PHSAM), has announced the reopening of Audi Centre Setia Alam, which was previously closed for upgrading works. The outlet is now operated by dealer-partner Goh Brothers Motor, and will continue to serve as a 4S centre that comprises sales, service, spare parts, and body and paint offerings under one roof.
Occupying 60,000 square feet of space and standing four storeys high, the 4S centre is based on the Audi terminal architectural concept. The showroom area can accommodate up to 12 cars, while the double storey service centre houses 17 service bays.
Photo: Audi Centre Setia Alam/Facebook
PHSAM Managing Director, Erik Winter said, “Customer satisfaction is at the forefront of everything we do, and this makes delivering an unforgettable ownership experience a priority for us.
“For this, it is important to work together with our dealer partners to ensure constant improvements in retail and aftersales for Audi owners. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Goh Brothers Motor on this expansion, and I wish them the very best.”
RELATED:
PHS Automotive named new distributor for Audi in Malaysia, sister company to VPCM
Photo: Audi Centre Setia Alam/Facebook
Goh Brothers Motor Managing Director, Goh Kian Sin, added that the Group is delighted to seal its Audi presence in Klang Valley with the Setia Alam facility.
“Goh Brothers Motor is synonymous with the Audi brand in the northern region with Audi Centre Juru,” said Goh. “With Audi Centre Setia Alam, we would like to reiterate our commitment to our business, and Audi owners can rest assured that we will continue to strengthen the customer experience for them.”
RELATED:
Ken Block’s Christmas and birthday is the Audi S1 Hoonitron!
Photo: Audi Centre Setia Alam/Facebook
Located in Setia Alam, the 4S Centre will serve the community within the township and surrounding areas, including Shah Alam and Klang. For the convenience of customers, the Audi Centre is equipped with facilities such as a customer lounge with Wi-Fi connection and a refreshed sales delivery area. Those servicing their Audi vehicles are also welcome to enjoy the pick-up and delivery service made available.
To celebrate the occasion, Audi Centre Setia Alam invites owners who have not visited the service centre in the past six months to a complimentary 20-point safety diagnostic and health check worth RM300. The offer is valid till August 31, 2022.
Audi cars purchased through official channels here in Malaysia now are supported with three years free maintenance, five years unlimited mileage warranty and five years roadside assistance.
Audi Centre Setia Alam is located at 22A, Persiaran Setia Dagang, Setia Alam in Selangor. Sales operations are from Monday to Sunday, (8:30am – 5:30pm), while aftersales services are open from Monday to Saturday (8:30am – 5:30pm). The Audi Centre is closed on public holidays.


UMW Toyota recalls 2,400 units of Vios, Altis & Camry over Takata airbag replacement

UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has just announced a new Special Service Campaign involving 2,400 Toyota vehicles manufactured between 2001 to 2003 that have had their Takata airbag inflators replaced between 2013 to 2014.
According to UMWT, although these vehicles were subjected to an airbag recall between 2013 to 2014, these vehicles were replaced with a defective airbag inflator produced by Takata. This recall will again rectify and replace all these
killer airbags
 with new and improved components. Affected models are listed as below:
Model
Year Made
Toyota Vios
May – June 2003
Toyota Corolla Altis
July 2001 – June 2003
Toyota Camry
June 2002 – March 2003

UMWT will notify all its affected vehicle owners officially and perform the relevant replacement and repairs at zero cost to the owner. Owners of affected cars can contact any authorised Toyota service centre or call the Toyota Freephone at 1800-88-69682. Alternatively, all Toyota Owners can look up whether their vehicles are involved in any recall campaign by keying in their VIN/Chassis number
here
.


2015 Volkswagen Passat Alltrack, Passat Variant gets a raise with rugged looks

Even though the
Passat B8
 has yet to go on sale
here in Malaysia
, Volkswagen has announced the Passat Alltrack based on the Passat Variant.
The Passat Alltrack is
27.5 mm higher
, and wears an all-round black plastic cladding for that rugged look. Unique set of 17-inch wheels, anodised silver roof rails, and “Alltrack” badges complete the exterior distinction from the regular Passat.
To match its butch looks, the Passat Alltrack is fitted with
EDS
 (electronic differential lock),
XDS+
 and
4MOTION
 permanent all-wheel drive system. There’s also a special
Offroad driving mode
 that alters the characteristics of the assistance systems.
Five engines are offered, a petrol
1.4 TSI
 with
150 hp
, a petrol
2.0 TSI
 with
220 hp
, and a diesel
2.0 TDI
 with
150 hp
,
190 hp
, and
240 hp
. All engines feature a
Stop/Start system
 and they comply with the Euro-6 emissions standard.
Inside is still essentially a Passat, with a neat dashboard and featuring a seamless passenger-side aircond vent. The Passat Alltrack is going to make its first public appearance at the Geneva Motor Show soon. What do you guys think, should Volkswagen Group Malaysia bring the Passat Alltrack here?
[divider]
IMAGE GALLERY


Chinese New Year 2023: Toll-free highways from 20-21 January for all vehicles

In conjunction with the upcoming Chinese New Year festivities, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has announced that highways nationwide will be toll-free from
20-21 January 2023
.
“After that, please pay your toll [fees]”, he jokingly said during a press conference today, after the cabinet meeting in Putrajaya.
The toll-free initiative will involve all highway concessionaires, and will cost the government a total of RM40 million over the two days. The toll exception will apply to all vehicle classifications.
PLUS Malaysia
 is estimating an increase of daily traffic volume from 1.8 million up to two million during the festive periods. In view of the increased traffic, the Malaysian works ministry has announced a temporary
decrease in speed limit by 10 km/h
 on all roads from 18-27 January, while goods-carrying vehicles are also banned on 20-21 and 24-25 January.
The highway concessionaire has also released a travel time advisory for Klang Valley-based road users travelling on the North-South Expressway (NSE) during the festive period.
For those heading to Perlis, Kedah, Penang, North Perak, and Johor from the Klang Valley between January 19-22 January, the company strongly advises entering the highway before 9 am. Those travelling to nearer destinations meanwhile are advised to enter the NSE between noon and 4 pm to avoid converging with long-distance road users.
We at
AutoBuzz.my
 would like to wish those travelling a safe journey back home, and a very happy Chinese New Year to everyone celebrating.
Gong Xi Fa Cai
!


This old school RUF CTR “Yellow Bird” with 700 hp can outrun most Ferraris!

Those who grew up in the 80s would have undoubtedly heard of the legendary Yellow Bird. Today, Alois Ruf built a brand new RUF CTR with nearly twice the power than his 1987 Bird, albeit on a completely bespoke chassis.
Yes, the chassis is not lifted off any old Porsche 911, and neither is the design. Everything was done in-house, though the overall outlook bears an unmistakable resemblance to the 964. Its underpinning is constructed entirely out of carbon fibre, making it the world’s first rear-wheel drive car with a bespoke CF monocoque chassis. It’s weight? A featherweight 1,200kg, even lighter than a
Proton Persona Premium CVT
.

The rear-engine beast is powered by a
3.6-litre twin turbo flat-six
 that is also custom built by RUF. Its build was inspired by the classic Porsche ‘Mezger’ flat-six engine from the original Yellowbird, tuned to deploy
 700 hp
 and
880 Nm
 of mind numbing torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a
six-speed manual transmission
. Imagine driving this!
The car launches from nought to 100 km/h in
 3.5 seconds
 and has a top speed of
360 km/h
! In comparison, the original CTR from 1987 with
 469 hp
 topped out at 342 km/h at the Nardo Ring.
Just thirty units of the RUF CTR will be built, and it costs
€750,000
 (approximately RM3.57 mil+) before taxes. That’s a lot of money for a bespoke machine, but don’t forget the original CTR also outperformed the fastest Ferrari, Porsche, and Lamborghini during its heyday.
IMAGE GALLERY


Facts & Figures: Toyota Corolla Cross launched in Malaysia – Two variants, RM124k and RM134k

One of the most anticipated Toyota models has finally arrived in Malaysia- the Toyota Corolla Cross. First
debuted in Thailand
 close to 10 months ago, with ASEAN neighbours introducing within the year 2020, UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) is offering the fully imported (
CBU
) Corolla Cross with just the conventional 1.8-litre petrol engine, with the 1.8G priced from
RM124,000
, with sales tax exemption until June 30th and the 1.8V priced from
RM134,000
, without sales tax exemption.
The introduction of the Toyota Corolla Cross also means the discontinuation of the
polarising Toyota C-HR
 that also shares the same powertrain but priced much higher with a lower amount of valued features.
PERFORMANCE
There were hopes that UMWT will be offering the hybrid variant into the Malaysian market, as Toyota in Indonesia, Vietnam and of course Thailand all offered the 122 hp 1.8-litre hybrid variant as the range-topper. The current market landscape in Malaysia perhaps suggests that only the 1.8-litre petrol variant is a viable investment for all parties involved.
Engine: 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol, Dual VVT-i
Transmission: CVT with 7-ratio Shiftmatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Max horsepower: 139 hp @ 6,400 rpm
Max torque: 172 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
Top speed: 185 km/h
The 2ZR-FE 1.8-litre engine and CVT-type transmission are taken directly from
the Corolla sedan
. The chassis and the fundamental engineering of the Corolla Cross is based on the TNGA platform GA-C but with a change to the rear suspension system.
The independent double-wishbone multi-link rear axle has been replaced with a newly developed
torsion beam axle
 that promises great body control and stability while cornering yet high comfort levels while cruising. We really like how the new Toyota Corolla Cross drives and you can read
a very brief review here
!
EXTERIOR
The form of the Toyota Corolla takes some design cues from the
larger RAV4
 sibling, such as the satin-finished piece of trim with the model name on the rear pillar. Lighting technology is used to separate the two variants. In the V-variant, LED lighting is used for the headlamp, DRLs as well as the taillamp with a ‘curtain’ pattern.
The G-variant gets halogen front lighting with a simpler LED taillamp design with both variants featuring LED front and rear fog lamps.
The 1.8V
The 1.8G with bulb-type DRLs
Larger 18-inch rims with wider 225-section tyres are also fitted on the V-variant, while the G-variant identifies itself easily with single-tone silver rims in 17-inch diameter. Both sizes nonetheless come with a tyre pressure warning system (TPWS).
Being designed as an SUV, the ground clearance of the Toyota Corolla Cross is 161 mm, with a generous approach angle of 18 degrees.
Standard items across both variants include a
powered tailgate
with hands-free foot-activated sensor, smart entry system, auto-folding side mirrors with reverse-link and blind-spot monitor plus rear cross-traffic alert (RCTA) feature. UMWT is also fitting the premium security and solar window film as standard on both variants, together with a front-facing driving video recorder (DVR).
The new Toyota Corolla Cross will be available in five exterior colours- Red Mica Metallic, Platinum White Pearl, Metalstream Metallic, Graphite Metallic and Nebula Blue Metallic. The latter three are exclusive colours designed for the Toyota Corolla Cross.
INTERIOR
The cabin is where everything returns to familiarity. The dashboard is lifted directly from the Toyota Corolla sedan and standard equipment plus fittings in both variants include:
Black leather upholstery
Power-adjustable driver’s seat
Standard instrument cluster with 4.2-inch TFT multi-information display
Automatic single-zone air-conditioning with rear duct
9-inch touchscreen infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto-ready connectivity
60:40 split-folding rear seats, armrest and a 6-degree recline angle
Rear USB charging ports
Allow the powered tailgate to open itself, through a hands-free foot sensor, and a large
440-litre
 luggage area is revealed. Two road bicycles can be accommodated with the rear seats folded down, the luggage floor flat and level.
The 1.8V just adds ambient lighting to the front doors, front cupholders and centre tray together with an acoustic-glass front windshield.
Oddly, the electronic parking brake has been replaced to something not seen in a new Toyota for some time- a
foot-operated parking brake
 that engages the rear disc brakes. Another omission, when compared to the Toyota Corolla sedan, is the powertrain’s Sport mode which is not in the Corolla Cross.
SAFETY
Similar to the Corolla sedan, the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) safety suite, consisting of the five main systems, is only available in the 1.8V:
Pre-Collision System (PCS)
Lane Departure Alert (LDA) with steering assist
Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) at high-speed only
Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) at high-speed only
Automatic High Beam (AHB)
The Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) is only able to operate from 30 km/h due to the parking brake that is mechanical rather than electronic, where it is unable to engage when the vehicle is stationary.
Both variants will be equipped with seven airbags (inclusive of driver’s knee airbag), 3D Panoramic View Monitor (PVM), front and rear parking sensors, and the aforementioned blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert.
Additionally, a standard-fitted Vehicle Telematics System (VTS) can track the vehicle’s position using GSM/GPS signals. The owner can also monitor the vehicle’s status and if the unfortunate event of the Toyota Corolla Cross is stolen, a Command Centre will locate and inform relevant authorities to recover the vehicle.
In the event of an impact being detected, the centre will inform emergency services to provide assistance at the vehicle’s location. Owners of Toyota Corolla Cross will enjoy a free subscription to the VTS service for three years.
PRICING
As mentioned above, the new Toyota Corolla Cross is priced at
RM124,000
 for the G variant (sales tax exempted) and
RM134,000
 for the V variant (sales tax fully paid) in Malaysia. All prices are on the road, without insurance and inclusive of a
five-year unlimited mileage
 vehicle warranty.
UMWT also said that the Corolla Cross 1.8G is available for viewing, test drives and purchase, while the
1.8V will only be available at a later date
, but bookings are now accepted at all physical as well as
virtual
 showrooms.
With such attractive pricing, the Toyota Corolla Cross could just steal quite a significant amount of market share from Honda before the arrival of the all-new HR-V.
GALLERY


MyTukar partners with CapBay to offer financing scheme for authorised dealerships

MyTukar, the Malaysian used car trading platform, has partnered with financing services firm CapBay to offer a new financing programme for its authorised dealerships, with a total financing amount of up to RM300 million.
The new financing scheme, called the MyTukar Dynamic Dealership Programme, is designed to support MyTukar’s 1,900 authorised dealers in reducing financial impact and business risks during these challenging times due to the
COVID-19
 pandemic.
According to the company, the new programme is a comprehensive financial services facility that provides an effective and convenient “one-stop-solution” to operate and grow their dealership business.
MyTukar CEO, Fong Hon Sum.
The programme features a wide range of financial facilities offered by CapBay, including a RM100,000 pre-approved revolving credit line to purchase cars from the MyTukar platform, up to RM500,000 revolving facilities for inventory management, trade financing, as well as working capital.
The revolving facilities enable MyTukar’s authorised dealers to procure vehicles and list it on MyTukar’s online car bidding platform to fetch a higher price for their inventories, essentially providing MyTukar dealers access to short-term financing without cash outlay for purchases, freeing up cash flow for other investments or business opportunities.
MyTukar CEO, Fong Hon Sum said, “Our priority at this point of time is to support our authorised dealers in reducing financial impact and business risks … [The new financing programme] enables MyTukar’s authorised dealerships to better manage their cash flow by giving a higher margin of finance for all drawdowns.”
The companies say that financing can be acquired “within seconds”. Applications for the new financing programme is now open on the CapBay website,
here
. More information on MyTukar’s dealership programme is available on the company’s website,
here
.


Mercedes-Benz bids farewell to the R172 SLC with Final Edition

When the Mercedes-Benz SLK first appeared back in 1996, it was premiered with the “yellowstone” colour, an unconventional choice for Mercedez-Benz then but more than 20 years later, the brand is reminiscing the event with the introduction of the “sun yellow”, on the Final Edition of the SLC.
The Final Edition will be available in four different variants – SLC 180, SLC 200, SLC 300, SLC 43 AMG. Engine options range from 1.6-litre for the SLC 180, 2.0-litre for the SLC 200 and SLC 300 and V6 for the SLC 43 AMG.
The Final Edition’s attire is essentially based on the AMG Line with AMG-styled front and rear bumpers, lowered suspension (10mm) and larger brakes tucked behind 18-inch 5-spoke AMG light alloy wheels.
This is complemented by the Final Edition’s very own special touches that include SLC Final Edition badges on the front fenders and Final Edition embroidery on the floor mats.
As for the
Mercedes-AMG SLC 43
, it stands out with matte black 5-spoke AMG light alloy wheels and an “AMG Edition” badge on the steering wheel that features a grey 12 o’clock marker.
The SLC Final Edition will be available next month for a starting price of 41,536.95 Euros (approx RM191k).
IMAGE GALLERY


Review: Lexus UX 200 Luxury – Dressed to impress

If there’s something that we’ve learned about Lexus in recent years, it’s their penchant for making a statement. Despite entering a completely new market, the Japanese carmaker did not settle for a “crowd pleaser” in order to reach its sales targets. Instead, they gave us the Lexus UX, complete with a wild design that is sure to stand out from the sea of mostly bland cars on the roads today. But does it have what it takes to go up against the beloved
Volvo XC40
,
BMW X2
, and the
Mercedes-Benz GLA
?
According to Lexus, the UX name stands for ‘Urban Crossover’, but we’d argue that it looks and feels more like a hatchback than anything else, standing just about 100 mm taller than the
Mercedes-Benz A-Class
 hatchback. What’s not up for discussion, though, is just how special the UX looks.
No matter which angle you glance it from, the Lexus UX stands out with its “brave” use of sharp lines and creases – Lexus said it themselves, and we have to agree. And they aren’t just for style, too – The Japanese carmaker says that the bold lines on the exterior do serve an aerodynamic purpose, a point highlighted by the Aero Stabilising Blades that are integrated into the tail lights, blending form and function.
From the triple LED projector headlights and check mark daytime running lights, to the full-width LED combination tail lights at the back, the Lexus UX does truly feel like a piece of art with careful consideration in every stroke of the brush. Unconventional? Sure. But in our eyes, Lexus truly achieved a masterpiece with the UX.
In true Lexus fashion, the cabin of the UX is also nothing short of amazing. The attention to detail is unmistakable, from the use of the Japanese “washi” paper texture on the dashboard, to the careful perforations on the two-tone seat upholstery. Lexus even included a wirelessly-powered infinity mirror illumination on the air-con vent knobs, just for the sake of it.
But like a double-edged sword, the impressive furnishing also makes the compact crossover’s shortcomings even more apparent. With the extravagant curves and details on the dashboard, the blandness of the door cards just stick out like a sore thumb.
And while we’re at it, Lexus’ infotainment system and trackpad combination is still as awful as ever to use, no matter how sharp the 10.3-inch display looks. The media control panel below the armrest does help, though, but only after you put in the effort to get acquainted to the odd shape and button placements.
In the crusade for style, Lexus seems to have also forgotten about space. Knee room and headroom in the rear quarters are just sufficient to fit a full-sized adult, and Lexus has also chosen to omit any stowage spaces at the rear of the UX 200, save for two cup holders in the centre armrest.
Even worse still, the boot space of 271 litres is borderline laughable, and it also sits ridiculously high, which makes loading the boot with your cargo an unnecessarily labour-intensive task. At least, you still get an electrically-powered boot with hands-free kick-open function, a flat load floor, and folding rear seats.
For all its drawbacks in its practicality, the Lexus UX does make up significant grounds in the driving department. The compact crossover is built on Lexus’ Global Architecture platform, which traces its roots to Toyota’s TNGA-C. Throughout our time spent in the Lexus UX 200 Luxury for this review, we can’t help but come back to the term “un-Lexus-like” when we’re describing its ride quality.
A large part of that boils down to its tighter-sprung suspension set-up (even without the F Sport performance dampers), which makes road imperfections a little more discernible from the driver’s seat. But don’t get me wrong – it doesn’t make the Lexus UX feel any less refined, rather more connected to the road.
When it comes to larger undulations, the UX soaks them up so gracefully that we can only compare it to how a ballerina lands from a hop. On top of that, there’s also the Lexus Safety System+ advanced driver assistance features, which makes the driving experience – especially on highways – completely effortless.
Although Lexus clearly intended for the UX to be mainly driven on the city streets (hence, the name), the little crossover doesn’t lose its charm on the backroads either, with minimal body roll when thrown into corners and instant direction changes – all hallmark features of the TNGA platform. Despite its supposedly taller ride height, you also sit fairly low inside the cabin, which makes driving the UX feel that much more engaging.
The Lexus UX is only offered with a single 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder powertrain option across the board here in Malaysia. While the chassis is perfectly capable of handling more than
169 hp
 and
205 Nm
 of torque, we didn’t once feel that it was underpowered during our time with it.
The UX’s secret sauce comes from its 10-speed Direct Shift CVT gearbox, which features a mechanical “launch gear” for acceleration from a standstill. But even at speed, the gearbox reacts almost instantaneously to any form of throttle input, working seamlessly with the engine to send more power to the front wheels.
People often say “once you’ve tried turbocharging, you’ll never go back”, but if the naturally-aspirated engines are all as good as this, I wouldn’t have it any other way. Only downside? It does make quite a racket at full tilt, which – like we’ve alluded to before – isn’t too Lexus-like either.
While the UX might be the cheapest Lexus you can buy, with a price list that starts at RM235,472 (with
sales tax exemptions
), it does not feel like any lesser of a car, and is more than worthy of the Lexus name that it wears.
Put simply, if I were Volvo, Mercedes-Benz, or BMW, I’d be pretty worried by now, because the Lexus UX might be one of the most well-rounded product in the compact crossover space we’ve come across thus far – that is, if space isn’t much of a concern to you, of course.
Lexus UX 200 Luxury Specifications:
Engine
1,987 cc; naturally-aspirated inline-four
Transmission
10-speed Direct Shift CVT
Max horsepower
169 hp @ 6,600 rpm
Max torque
205 Nm @ 4,800 rpm
0-100 km/h; Top speed
9.2 seconds; 190 km/h
Price (OTR, w/o insurance, inclusive of SST exemptions)
RM274,027
GALLERY


This driver nearly reversed her car into a 50-feet plunge

A botch reverse maneuver nearly sent the driver and her Toyota C-HR into a possibly fatal plunge recently before bystanders rushed to her aid.
In what seemed like just another attempt at reverse parking, the driver is seen in the surveillance video reversing rapidly through the barrier behind her.
 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vy4br_9Jiqk
Thankfully the C-HR came to a stop but it still left the rear wheels dangling in the air, with the driver trapped in the car before she was pulled to safety through the passenger side door.
It was reported that the lady had just bought the crossover and was confused with how the gears worked. When it started reversing, she panicked and pressed on the accelerator – what a thing to do. Wouldn’t it make more sense to hit the brakes?


Petronas’ all-new Primax 97 with Pro-Race promises more power, 25% less friction

Petronas has unveiled its latest fuel, the Primax 97 with Pro-Race, through a Facebook live-stream event yesterday. Dubbed as its “best fuel ever”, the new Euro 4M RON 97 formulation is now available at Petronas petrol stations nationwide, at RM2.08 per litre based on the current weekly-updated fuel-prices.
The new RON 97 fuel is said to be formulated to meet the demands of newer engine technologies. Key to the new fuel’s enhancement is the new additive package, which includes what Petronas says is the world’s first
Advanced Dual Friction Modifier
. The company says the new additive is 25% more efficient in reducing friction, while lowering carbon emissions through an enhanced fuel and oil interaction.
Petronas says that the new fuel also helps remove up to 99.9% of engine deposits in “key areas”. As a result, the company says the new Primax 97 with Pro-Race is able to provide users with a more powerful, responsive, and efficient driving experience.
Petronas Dagangan Berhad Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Azrul Osman Rani said, “The new Petronas Primax 97 with Pro-Race is our best fuel, as the new formulation was designed to cater to advanced engine technologies and meet the high-performance driving needs of our customers today.
“Having translated our fluid technology from track to road, we are very excited to finally let our customers experience an effortless drive, achievable through the three-in-one benefit comprising power, responsiveness and efficiency.”
The new fuel leverages on Petronas’ experience in the development of fluid technology that helped the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 team win its
seventh consecutive World Constructors Championship
 this year.
Seven-time world champion
 and Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 driver Lewis Hamilton added, “The competitiveness on the racetrack, is intense. I need a fuel that gives me the power to move beyond – when I accelerate, when I take corners and when I need to get ahead of the pack. Petronas Primax 97 with Pro-Race is the fuel that gives your car the power as and when it needs most. I know what power means. You should too.”
Based on Petronas’ own blind tests carried out by 100 real-world users, 69% of users reported a noticeable increase in power, while 66% agreed that their vehicles felt more responsive with the new Primax 97 with Pro-Race fuel. As for efficiency, 73% of participating users noted that their vehicles recorded better mileage with the new Petronas fuel, as compared to their usual RON 97 fuel.
Azrul added: “The results of the blind tests and feedback from the drivers are truly encouraging. As a leading energy and solutions partner, we continuously seek out avenues to refine and improve our offerings to remain as customers brand of choice. “We are confident that the new PETRONAS Primax 97 with Pro-Race will surpass customers’ expectations and delight their driving experience.”
In conjunction with the launch of the new fuel, Petronas is also offering a RM2 e-voucher for a minimum purchase of RM50 of the new Primax 97 with Pro-Race fuel, and a RM5 cashback voucher for new
Setel
 users. More information can be found
here
.
GALLERY


Polestar Precept grand tourer teased, undergoing development work

Polestar, Volvo’s performance electric car brand, has just teased the production version of their Polestar Precept concept that was first shown in 2020. Being a grand tourer (GT), the Precept will compete against the king of the segment- the
Porsche Taycan
 and joined by the new
Audi e-tron GT
,
Mercedes-AMG EQS 53
 and
Tesla Model S
.
The image was taken at Polestar’s latest research and development hub in the UK that has doubled its workforce amid a challenging industry landscape. Located in MIRA Technology Park, the heart of the UK’s Motorsport Valley, the facility allows easy access to a top-class automotive engineering talent pool that has diverse expertise rarely seen within traditional automakers.
Apart from a large multi-layout proving ground, the MIRA (Motor Industry Research Association) Technology Park houses a multitude of engineering services and testing laboratories to cover all aspects of automotive design and engineering.
The Polestar Precept concept with the front and rear design
The UK R&D team will focus on the latest Polestar Precept grand tourer that is said to be production-ready before the middle of the decade.
“Precept is a statement of intent for the brand in terms of design, technology and sustainability,” says Head of Polestar UK R&D, Pete Allen. “The production car will take an important step on the journey towards climate neutrality, and ours will be the team that delivers that.”
Polestar R&D team has just created their Beast! Find out what this Beast in white is!
Conventional door handles as well as structural piece (B-pillar) on the pre-production Precept
When compared to the concept car, the pre-production Precept in black seems to have a regular central pillar (or B-pillar) with its rear doors hinged here rather than a suicide-style. The roof is also covered, perhaps to conceal the
LiDAR scanning module
 that is styled to be integrated with the overall design of the vehicle.
The Polestar Precept GT is the fourth model in the line-up, after the
Polestar 1
 low-volume electric performance hybrid coupe with
609 hp/1,000 Nm
 and an electric-only range of 124 km – the longest of any hybrid car in the world.
The
Polestar 2
 fastback that targets a more mass appeal is offered in three variants with a combination of standard- and long-range batteries up to 540 km range, and dual- and single motor powertrains with as much as
408 hp
 and
660 Nm
.
Polestar is scheduled to launch the
Polestar 3
 performance electric SUV that will be built in the USA next year. Apart from expanding its product line-up, Polestar is also opening more dedicated retail centres in
Asia Pacific
.

GALLERY


Video: How to Change Car Tyre – AutoDIY

Among all the things you can “DIY” with your car, changing into a spare tyre is possibly the easiest; requiring no technical knowledge but only a degree of tactfulness and lots of elbow grease.
Seeing as there hasn’t been an effective avenue for most young drivers in Malaysia to learn this, leaving most stranded at odd locations (and sometimes at even odder times) and at the mercy of “parental support” or roadside assistance that is usually some time and distance away, here’s a quick and brief guide in the first of many Auto DIY episodes which will be aired
every Wednesday
 on
our YouTube channel
 for the following weeks to come.
Watch as Jasmine (inset) demonstrates while Johnson explains, step-by-step, on how to change your car’s tyre, with every possible precaution taken into account. Before all else, this video will also highlight the
basic tools you’ll need to have in the boot at all times
, in the event of a flat tyre.
Be sure to also watch till the end of the video for useful tips on how to reuse your old tyres – should you decide to keep them – and not to mention, for the usual AutoBuzz.my bloopers.


You can now use Touch ‘n Go RFID to refuel at 88 Shell stations in Malaysia – No phones required!

Touch ‘n Go RFID users can now refuel at
88
 Shell stations nationwide thanks to the joint effort between
Touch ‘n Go Group
 and
Shell Malaysia
. Launched today, Touch ‘n Go Group and Shell Malaysia expect to expand the number of RFID-enabled Shell stations up to 200 by the end of 2022.
Shell Malaysia and Singapore Mobility General Manager, Seow Lee Ming (Left)
 and Touch ‘n Go Group CEO, Effendy Shahul Hamid (Right)
Touch ‘n Go Group CEO, Effendy Shahul Hamid said, “We’re extremely pleased to have quickly been able to expand the RFID use case beyond road tolling. Customers can now make payments at Shell stations without requiring any interaction with an app on their mobile phones or engaging with a point-of-sale system as payment is made via Touch ‘n Go eWallet linked to the user’s Touch ‘n Go RFID.”
He also adds, “We are fortunate to have found a like-minded partner in Shell, who aligns with our ambition to provide customers with cashless, contactless driving experience, and is helping us pave the way towards delivering more innovative offerings for both sets of our customers.
“The combination of an RFID and eWallet infrastructure allows us to expand its use case beyond tolling. As we’ve shown today, fuelling is an additional use case, and we will be expanding the RFID use case into more areas as we go on.”
RELATED:
Shell installs solar panels at 216 petrol stations
RFID reader mounted on the ceiling of the Shell petrol station
Previously only enabled at 35 shell stations in Malaysia, the RFID payment system at shell stations does not require users to whip out their phones to fill up. In order to utilise the new payment system, customers will need a Touch ‘n Go RFID tag that is linked to their Touch ‘n go eWallet account, and complete the one-time registration and activation process through the Touch ‘n Go eWallet mobile app.
Upon successful activation, customers simply need to park their vehicles at the RFID-designated fueling bays. Vehicles are detected within seconds, and payment will be auto-debited from the customer’s Touch ‘n Go eWallet. In case you’re wondering how to fill up a full tank of petrol, any unutilised amount will be immediately refunded to the customer’s Touch ‘n Go eWallet accounts.
Shell Malaysia and Singapore Mobility General Manager, Seow Lee Ming says, “In line with our commitment to making customers’ daily journeys more seamless through innovative offerings, we embarked on this partnership with Touch ‘n Go to develop a new payment method that provides cashless convenience, using RFID technology, without the hassle of a mobile app. We also went the extra mile to integrate Touch ‘n Go RFID with our loyalty partner BonusLink, allowing customers to earn loyalty points easily with each fuel purchase.
“Over the last year, we have received positive response
 from over 10,000 pilot users
, and have been working closely with Touch ‘n Go to continuously optimise the technology to ensure a truly hassle-free payment experience. We are confident that this collaboration with Touch ‘n Go will further enhance our customer experience at Shell.”
RELATED:
Shell and Porsche launches first 180 kW EV charger in Johor
Shell Malaysia and Touch ‘n Go will be rewarding the first 25,000 customers who utilise the RFID refuelling function with a RM10 cashback from August 10 to September 16, 2022. All customers need to do is to top-up a minimum of RM50 using the Touch ‘n Go eWallet app. Do note that only first-time customers are eligible for this cashback reward from Touch ‘n Go and Shell Malaysia.


Here’s how the new Mercedes-Benz brand presence changes your car-buying experience

Cycle & Carriage’s
remodelled Mutiara Damansara Autohaus
 is the first Mercedes-Benz dealership in the country to carry the German Marque’s latest brand presence, centred around the customers’ needs through a new spatial design philosophy and increase usage of digital media.
So how exactly does the new Mercedes-Benz dealership identity change the car buying experience? We recently had the opportunity to try out the new Compact AMG trio at the Mutiara Damansara Autohaus (more on that coming soon), and while we were there, decided to experience it for ourselves.
Upon stepping into the dealership, you’ll be immediately greeted by a
Star Assistant
 to tend to your queries – be it sales or aftersales. The Star Assistant will then contact the relevant consultant or product experts depending on your needs.
While you sit and wait for the relevant personnel at the lounge area, you’ll get a clear view of the main display area, where all the models on sale are lined up neatly. The layout of the vehicles is specifically designed along an arc along the main route, with the intent to increase visibility of each model on display.
To ensure that customers see the cars in its true colours – just as how you’ll see it out on the roads – the showroom uses daylight lamps to illuminate the showroom floor. You’ll also find ambient lights around the entire premise, shaped similar to those that you’ll see in a Mercedes-Benz car.
When speaking to a consultant, customers can choose between public, semi-public, or “very discreet” locations. Alternatively, you can also utilise the
digital surfaces
 including digital info stands and “media walls” littered throughout the premise, The latter integrated behind a layer of black glass to maintain a cohesive appearance along the walls.
These digital media surfaces are used for a myriad of purposes, including presentation of product information, atmospheric setting purposes, or personalisation of your model of choice in the sample studio – you’ll get to see how your customisations look like immediately.
Beside every model on display is also a digital price stand, where customers can interactively explore the special features and packages available for that particular model.
When it is time to collect your new car, you will be led into a special delivery room for the handover process. Designed as a “black box”, the space is crafted specifically to emphasise the car and the customer in the handover process – a reflection of the new Mercedes-Benz brand presence.
Product specialists will utilise the media displays within the room to facilitate their explanation of the different functionalities of the car to the customer.
And of course, how can we forget about the coffee? The new Mutiara Damansara Autohaus features a self-service lounge, where customers can feel right at home with an assortment of beverages, light snacks, and desserts. We won’t lie – we definitely spent the most time here.
If you would like to check it out for yourself, the new
 A 45 S
,
A 35
, and
CLA 45 S
 will all be at the Mutiara Damansara Autohaus on the
29th to 30th of June
. As they say in English, kill two birds with one stone, right? So be sure to mark your calendars!
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