Mercedes-AMG Unveils CLA 35 4Matic Compact Four-Door Coupe With 306 hp

Remember the gorgeous yellow
Mercedes-AMG A35 hot hatch
which was unveiled last year?
Well, the company has just unveiled the four-door coupe version of the car, the Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 4Matic.
Mechanically, the CLA 35 is identical to its hatchback sibling, with power coming from the same M260 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine that does 306 hp and 400 Nm, sent to all four wheels via the AMG Speedshift 7G dual-clutch transmission and the company’s 4Matic all-wheel drive system.
The only difference is that the CLA 35 does the century sprint in 4.9 seconds, which is 0.2 seconds slower compared to the A35’s 4.7 seconds.
The variable AMG Performance 4MATIC combines the best possible traction with lots of driving fun. The torque distribution spectrum ranges from front-wheel drive only to a 50:50 percent distribution to the front and rear axles.
There are five drive programs to choose from – “Slippery", "Comfort", "Sport", "Sport +" and "Individual", offering a wide range of vehicle characteristics.
On the exterior, key features include frameless doors, wide wheel arches, a slim sporty waistline, two “powerdomes” on the bonnet, radiator grille with twin louvres, and AMG Line front apron with flics on the air inlets.
Other distinctive features include trim elements in silver chrome on the louvres in the outer air inlets, aerodynamically optimised 18-inch light-alloy wheels in twin-spoke design (19-inch optionally available), and the accentuated side sill panels.
The rear view is dominated by the rear apron with a new diffuser insert, the small spoiler lip on the boot, and the two round tailpipe trims on the left and right. The two-piece, narrow tail lamps and the number plate housed in the bumper make the rear of the CLA look especially wide.
Inside, the CLA 35 comes with dual 10.25-inch screens, MBUX infotainment system, sport seats, new AMG steering wheel, and an AMG-specific centre console in piano lacquer finish with a touchpad.
Also available as an option is the AMG Track Pace app which can store information such as throttle inputs, G-forces and lap times, and even display driving lines to help the driver learn a race track.
That said, the Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 will be making its world premiere at the upcoming New York Auto Show on 16th April.


Toyota Malaysia Teases All-New Rush, Debut Soon

The all-new Toyota Rush will be launched in Malaysia real soon, as Toyota Malaysia’s official Facebook page has posted a teaser of the new model.
Set to be introduced on October 18
th
, the company has already opened the
registration of interest
 for the new model.
As
reported earlier
, specifications for the local Toyota Rush will likely mirror that of units sold in Indonesia, Philippines, and South Africa.
In terms of safety equipment, the all-new Rush is expected to be rather feature-packed, including:
Forward Collision Warning (FCW) with Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
360-degree surround view camera
Blind Spot Monitor (BSM)
Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
Six airbags
ISOFIX child seat mounts
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
To recap, the all-new Toyota Rush is powered by a 1.5-litre 2NR-VE Dual VVT-I that does 105 PS and 136 Nm, mated to a 4-speed automatic that sends power to the rear wheels.
For Malaysia, market talks is that Perodua will be assembling the all-new Rush under contract for UMW Toyota, mirroring a similar arrangement done with the first generation Toyota Avanza for UMW Toyota back in 2005. The only other plant manufacturing the Rush is the P.T. Astra Daihatsu Motor plant in Indonesia, which also makes the Rush's donor car the Daihatsu Terios. Like the Avanza, the Rush is a Daihatsu-developed product but is also sold under the Toyota brand.
On the topic of Perodua, the company is expected to preview its all-new D38L SUV at the upcoming Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show (KLIMS) in November, though the new Perodua SUV is only expected to go on sale early next year.


SPYSHOTS: 2016 BMW M2 Has Its Camo Digitally Removed

The
BMW
 M2 is not due to make its debut anytime soon but prototypes of the more powerful
2 Series
 Coupe have been sighted and snapped. Here’s a series of photos from
Bimmerpost

that shows a camouflaged M2 but through the magic of image manipulation (aka Photoshop), we now get a pretty accurate indication of what the final product may look like sans disguise.
Keep in mind though that these are merely renderings and don’t necessarily reflect what the BMW M2 will look like although it does look mighty fine here. As you’d expect, the M2 gains an aggressively-styled body kit with large air intakes, side gills, rear vents, and four exhaust tips.
The source also say that under the hood of the M2 is BMW’s turbocharged inline six N55 engine, developing 365hp and 465Nm of torque. With the overboost features, an additional 35Nm of torque is available in the low to mid-range rpm as well. Other details include the transmission options which include a six-speed manual as standard or seven-speed M-DCT as an option.
In the past, BMW created the 1M Coupe which received glowing reviews, where Jeremy Clarkson called it the most fun car of the year in 2011. This means that the Bavarian carmaker will certainly be doing their absolute best to make sure its successor lives up to those expectations.


Video: 2016 Honda Civic’s Remote Engine Start – More Than Just a Gimmick

One of the more interesting features to be offered in
the new 2017 Honda Civic (FC)
, which is also a first in class, is the Remote Engine Start function.
While many feel that this feature is merely a gimmick, it actually has its purpose and in fact, benefits drivers in more than one way.
So, in order to convey that across to the masses, we got together with our buddies at
Roda Pusing
 and spent some time fiddling around with the Remote Engine Start function, have a small discussion, and also give everyone a simple demonstration.
How this function works is that it allows you to start the car’s engine via the key fob with a press of a button from a distance of up to 10 metres.
What happens once you start the car using the remote is that the engine will warm up a little, and the cabin will cool down significantly by the time you reach the car as the air conditioning will automatically start functioning at 22 degrees by default.
With the water temperature hitting optimum level, engine oil warming up, and the cabin being all cool and cozy, there won’t be any reason for one to stand next to the car and flap the door to cool it down. All he or she has to do is just get in the car and drive away.
In case you’re wondering if it’s possible for someone to get into the car and drive away by the time you reach, it isn’t.
Although the engine is running, the doors will still be locked until the car detects the key nearby. So, you still need the normal procedures of unlocking the car, pressing push-start button, and shifting into ‘D’ before you can drive away.
So, the next time someone tells you that the Remote Engine Start is just there for ‘Wayang’, show them this video so that they understand how it is a blessing for owners.
The Remote Engine Start is a standard feature in all variants of the Civic, priced from RM113,800 for the 1.8 i-VTEC and RM127,800 to RM135,800 for the 1.5 VTEC Turbo.
Besides Remote Engine Start, the Civic also has walkaway auto door lock as standard.


Stellantis Secures Full Ownership Of Gurun Plant - Peugeot 2008 CKD Is Coming!

Stellantis has secured full ownership of Naza Automotive Manufacturing Sdn. Bhd. and its manufacturing plant in Gurun, Kedah.

This marks another step for
Stellantis
 (formerly PSA and FCA) as they look to invest and expand their footprint in the region as part of their localisation strategy.

“We have an ambitious growth strategy that will enable us to build on the existing production outputs in Gurun, as well as extend the breadth of brands and models within the Stellantis portfolio built in ASEAN for ASEAN. This is a very exciting proposition,” said Christophe Musy, Senior Vice President, ASEAN & General Distributors at Stellantis.

The current 3008 and 5008 that were first launched in Thailand and subsequently Indonesia was exported from the Stellantis plant in Gurun. The
Peugeot
 2008 will also commence production this month in Gurun so expect a local launch to follow shortly.

“We are focused on our mission to achieve world-class manufacturing in Gurun, to build high-quality, Malaysian-produced vehicles for South East Asia.

“This includes the internationally-acclaimed refreshed 3008 and 5008 updates and the new
Peugeot 2008
, three vehicles that will elevate the superior offering of the Peugeot brand in this region,” added Musy.

Stellantis obtained full ownership of the plant in Gurun from Naza Corporation on October 28. 170 employees have returned to work with Stellantis and they are also working with more than 50 local suppliers as production ramps up for the last quarter of 2021. The current capacity at the plant is up to 70,000 units per year.


PJ Half Marathon 2022 Road Closures on Sept 25th

The
PJ Half Marathon 2022
 will take place this Sunday (25 September 2022) and those living in
Petaling Jaya
 should take note of the
temporary road closures
 for the event.

This time around, there will be a few more categories added to the half marathon ranging from the 3km fun run all the way up to 30km in distance. Those who are planning to drive in or out of Petaling Jaya should be aware of which roads will be closed at different time frames to cater to the PJ Half Marathon's return.

Persiaran Barat - Jalan Timur from Sat 6pm to Sun 12pm

Those who are familiar with the Persiaran Barat - Jalan Timur route (in front of Padang Timur) should take note that it'll be closed from Saturday (24 September 2022) 6pm to Sunday (25 September 2022) at 12pm to make way for the event setup.

To cater to the 30km run, the slip road from the Federal Highway onto Jalan Timur (from KL) will also be closed from 4am to 10am this coming Sunday. Some alternatives have been suggested for those who want to head to Section 14 and Seapark to take Jalan Barat and Jalan 222 to head to Bandar Petaling Jaya.

Most PJ main roads to be closed from 4.30am to 11.00am

The traffic police from IPD Petaling Jaya will be assisting in the closures of a lot more roads within the Petaling Jaya area from 4.30am to 11.00am. There's a whole list of it that you can refer to in the photo above.

As you can see, it's a lot. So if you have any plans that consist of going into Petaling Jaya on Sunday morning, it's better if you can postpone, cancel, or suggest a different venue, unless you're entering the half marathon. If that's the case, all the best!


2015 Citroën Grand C4 Picasso 1.6 e-THP Launched: Priced At RM179,888

Naza Euro Motors has launched the new petrol-powered
2015 Citroën Grand C4 Picasso 1.6 e-THP
 which now sits alongside the previously-launched diesel variant.
Buyer’s Guide:
For those interested, the petrol variant is identical in terms of spec with the diesel save for the difference in engines.
The Grand C4 Picasso has always received a generous spec sheet and with the introduction of the petrol variant, all that was found in the diesel variant can still be had here which is good news considering the price tag of RM179,888 (OTR with GST) which is cheaper than the diesel variant's asking price of RM184,926. However, it is a give and take situation especially when performance comes to mind as you’ll soon find out.
As far as other competitors are concerned, this is what the 2015 Citroën Grand C4 Picasso will go up against:
2015 Peugeot 5008 – RM 155,582
2015 Volkswagen Cross Touran – RM170,608
Performance:
As we’ve mentioned, the Citroën Grand C4 Picasso is now fitted with a 1.6-litre e-THP in-line four cylinder petrol engine that produces 163hp at 6,000 rpm and 240Nm of 1,400 rpm.
Although the petrol
Citroën Grand C4 Picasso
gains 13hp, it does produce 130Nm of torque less than the diesel but this isn’t a cause for concern either because it is capable of accelerating faster than the diesel with a century sprint time of 8.7 seconds compared to 10.2 seconds.
As for fuel consumption, the claimed figure on the combined cycle is 5.8 litres/100km, a little more than the diesel’s 4.6 litres/100km.
KEY SPECS:
Engine: 1.6-litre e-THP in-line four-cylinder with direct fuel injection
Transmission: Six-speed torque converter automatic
Power: 163hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque: 240Nm @ 1,400 rpm
Fuel Consumption: 17.3 km/litre (combined)
Exterior Styling:
The unique funky styling is still here with the slim headlights at the front and minimal air inlets around the front bumper as well. At the rear, the cool rear 3D taillights are still there as are the 18-inch ‘Python’ alloy wheels.
Viewed from the top, the large panoramic sunroof with retractable blinds can be found and at the front, the fog lights
To accompany the Technospace styling, four body colour options are available: Blue Teles, Noir Onyx, Rouge Babylone, and Bance Banquise.
Interior:
Inside, the Technospace MPV is capable of seating seven and the seats themselves can be folded into different configurations that allow for additional storage space. Cuir Nappa bi-tone leather upholstery is abundant on the seats, dashboard, and various other pieces of trim.
Features that come as standard include automatic air-conditioning with third row air vents, a seven-inch Touch Drive driver interface unit, and 12-inch screen that displays infotainment and navigation systems. The driver’s seat comes with an electric massage function with adjustable lumbar support while the front passenger can also enjoy the seat massage function as well as an electric foot rest.
Luggage space remains unchanged as well with 793 litres VDA maximum when the third row is folded and the second row slid back. Access to the boot is through an electric tailgate.
Safety Features:
Safety-wise, the full package is provided as the
Citroën Grand C4 Picasso
comes with six airbags, electronic stability programme (ESP), dynamic stability control (DSC), traction control, four-wheel disc brakes that features anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. Parents will still have access to three ISOFIX mounting points.
Additional safety systems include Hill Start Assist, Park Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring System, Lane Departure Warning System and of course, the 360 Vision System surround view that gives a top-down view of the car.
Other Information:
For those who would want to get up close and personal with the new petrol-powered 2015 Citroën Grand C4 Picasso, a roadshow is currently being held at MidValley Megamall from April 16 to 19 while test-drives can be done at Citroën showrooms nationwide on April 18 and 19. A five-year or unlimited mileage warranty comes as standard with each purchase.


Perodua to ramp up 2023 production to fill backorders and meet increased demand

It looks like
Perodua
 will be ramping up its production this year to cope with deliveries of outstanding orders as well as continued demand for its vehicles in 2023.

"This year provides a golden opportunity for us as consumers still have confidence in the automotive market. In fact, more than half of our targeted volume is from bookings we collected last year but have yet to deliver, said Perodua President and Chief Executive Officer Dato' Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad.

Perodua's regular annual production capacity is at 320,000 units on a two-shift cycle, but Zainal is confident that they can increase their volume by improving productivity and by instituting overtime.

Perodua is looking to maximise its production to 330,000 units and sales to 314,000 units this year. They plan to help this along by earmarking RM10 billion worth of purchasing in parts from local suppliers to meet its 2023 target.

The production and sales targets are 14.2% and 11.3% higher than Perodua's 2022 289,054 production and 282,019 sales performance figures, respectively.

Dato Sri Zainal also said that he believes that total industry volume can go beyond 2022's 650k TIV,  announced by MAA recently. He believes this despite the many cost pressures facing the industry.


Kawasaki ZX-25R Tiba Pertengahan 2023 – CKD Dengan Lencana Modenas

Sport bike 250cc paling berkuasa di dunia,
 Kawasaki ZX-25R
 bakal dilancarkan di pasaran Malaysia pada pertengahan 2023!

Berita baik ini telah diumumkan oleh CEO
Modenas
, Datuk Roslan Roskan di booth Kawasaki di Litar Antarabangsa Sepang sempena dengan MotoGP Malaysia dan pelancaran beberapa model baharunya di pasaran Malaysia.

Kawasaki ZX-25R Tiba Pertengahan 2023 Dengan Lencana Modenas

Menurut Datuk Roslan, jentera garang idaman ramai ini bakal dilancarkan secara rasmi pada pertengahan tahun 2023.

Ketika ini, Modenas dan Kawasaki masih berbincang dan belum memutuskan sama ada model ini bakal ditawarkan dalam bentuk CBU atau CKD, namun Datuk Roslan menegaskan bahawa model ini besar kemungkinan akan diperkenalkan dalam bentuk CKD.

Tambah beliau, mengikut perjanjian kerjasama antara Kawasaki dan Modenas, setiap model Kawasaki yang dipasang di sini bakal dilencanakan semula dengan lencana Modenas, seperti yang berlaku pada Modenas Ninja 250 dan Modenas Z250.

Motor ini juga dikatakan bakal ditawarkan dalam beberapa pilihan varian, menandakan ia mungkin bakal hadir dengan varian standard serta varian SE.

Walau bagaimanapun, terdapat sedikit perubahan dilakukan pada bahagian ekzos motosikal ini bagi mematuhi piawan serta regulasi yang ditetapkan oleh kerajaan Malaysia.

Harga Kawasaki ZX-25R

Datuk Roslan berkata ketika ini, masih belum ada anggaran harga yang bakal ditawarkan pada motosikal ini. Di pasaran Thailand, model ini dijual pada harga 299,000 baht atau (RM36,922).

Walau bagaimanapun, memandangkan ia bakal membawa lencana Modenas dan dipasang di sini, harganya bakal menjadi lebih ‘menarik’ menurut Datuk Roslan.

Spesifikasi Kawasaki ZX-25R

Enjin: 4st,4 silinder, DOHC, liquid-cooled

CC: 249.8

Kuasa maksimum: 34.5 kW (46 PS) / 15,500 rpm

Kuasa maksimum dengan Ram Air: 35.2 kW (47 PS) / 15,500 rpm

Tork maksimum: 22 Nm / 12,500 rpm

Transmisi: 6 kelajuan

Klac: basah, multi-disc

Suspensi: depan – Telescopic fork (upside-down), belakang – Horizontal Back-Link Swing Arm

Brek: single disc, (277 mm hadapan, 186 mm belakang)

Agak-agaknya berapa harga yang bakal diperkenalkan pada pengendali motosikal prestasi 250cc ini di Malaysia kelak?


VIDEO: LRT Line Materials Fall On Myvi In Puchong Amidst Strong Winds

On top of the reported floods and fallen tree reports, you can add this disaster to yesterday’s Klang Valley heavy rain’s destruction path.
According to an eye-witness, an object believed to be a sort of tent used by LRT line workmen in the area, gets blown off the tracks and falls right in front of a Perodua Myvi: unbelievably scary stuff there!
It doesn’t look to us like anyone gets hurt, but the large and presumably heavy object does look like it makes contact with the white Myvi.
We can't tell what exactly happened after this footage ends, but we do hope that either the Audi driver, or at least the owner of this dash-cam footage got some help. Understandably, it's not the safest location to park and assist, but stopping further ahead and calling for the emergency services would've been ideal.
In any case, make sure to have a ready of our
rain-driving advice
, and share it with others in the hope of this incident never happening to you.

puchong
Posted by
Jean Boon
 on Tuesday, 11 August 2015


2020 Honda City RS vs 2020 Nissan Almera VLT – Battle of the High Spec Newcomers

With the arrival of the all-new
2020 Honda City
, the B-segment is all set to witness a tough battle between the City and also the all-new
2020 Nissan Almera
 which was unveiled just last month, but which one has the better list of offerings?

Since both models are leaps and bounds ahead of what they were, choosing between the two is surely going to be a tough call for potential buyers who don’t have a specific model in mind, as both the all-new City and the all-new Almera are handsome, fuel-efficient, and come packed with features.

So, in an effort to help you decide better, we have put both the range-topping variants of the
2020 Honda City
 and the 2020 Nissan Almera in comparison.

In terms of dimensions, this is how both of them stand side-by-side:

Model

Honda City RS e-HEV

Nissan Almera VLT

Length (mm)

4,553

4,495

Width (mm)

1,748

1,740

Height (mm)

1,467

1,460

Wheelbase (mm)

2,600

2,620

Both models are almost identical, but there is slight difference especially with the length of the wheelbase, which is longer with the Almera by 20 mm. Regardless, both are super spacious cars, especially in the rear.

As for the powertrain and performance, the City RS, which is slated to arrive only in January 2021, clearly has the upper-hand over the
Almera VLT
, thanks to the i-MMD mild hybrid system.

That being said, below is how both models stand next to each other:

Model

Honda City RS e-HEV

Nissan Almera VLT

Engine

1.5-litre i-MMD hybrid

1.0L 3-cylinder, turbocharged

Max power (PS)

98 (engine) + 109 (motor)

100

Max torque (Nm)

127 (engine) + 253 (motor)

152

Transmission

e-CVT

CVT

Now, most importantly, the list of standard features offered in both models is as mentioned below:

Honda City RS 1.5 e-HEV

Keyless entry with push start

Rear air-cond vents

Steering audio buttons and Bluetooth (with a call button).

Remote engine start

Paddle shifters (deceleration selector paddle for the RS)

Cruise control

8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Leather steering and gear lever

8 speakers

7.0-inch digital meter panel with hybrid-specific displays

Ultrasuede seats with red stitching

Aluminium pedals

Black headliner

LED headlights, taillights, DRLs

16-inch wheels

Multi-angle reverse camera

4 airbags

60:40 split-folding rear seats

Honda Sensing (Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS is autonomous emergency braking or AEB), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Auto High-Beam (AHB).

Nissan Almera 1.0 Turbo VLT

Zero Gravity seats

Keyless entry and push-start ignition

Power folding side mirrors

Tilt/telescopic steering wheel

Faux carbon-fibre gear knob

Steering-mounted audio control buttons

3 USB ports

60:40 split foldable rear seats

In-glass radio antenna

Gloss black trunk lid spoiler

16-inch wheels

Leather seats

Auto air-conditioning

Six-speaker Nissan Connect Infotainment system

Eight-inch touchscreen display

Apple CarPlay

Rear-view camera

Seven-inch digital speedometer display

Intelligent Around View Monitor, Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, Intelligent Forward Emergency Braking

6 airbags

Rear Cross Traffic Alert

Blind Spot Warning

So there you have it - the all-new
2020 Honda City RS
 e-HEV and the all-new 2020 Nissan Almera VLT side-by-side. As exciting as they sound, the pricing for both models are yet to be disclosed by the respective manufacturers. We can expect both models to be priced between RM90,000 and RM100,000.

In all, choosing between the two models above depends on what you're looking for in a car. If it is downright power and speed, the City is the car for you, but if you don't mind having lesser torque, but with a much cheaper road tax, the Almera will tickle you in the right places.

We must also not leave the good old
Toyota Vios
 out of the equation. One might argue that the car is outdated compared to the Almera and the City, but the Vios has one clear advantage above the other two - it has already proven itself to be a super-reliable and durable model that has somewhat stood the test of time.

So, if you don't fancy all the new high-tech stuff, and all you want is a car that is reliable, durable, economical, and practical, the Vios is waiting for you. That being said, which one would you go for?

For more latest car news, reviews, car buying guides and videos visit us at Carlist.my
Auto News
.

Check out all the best new & used car deals in Malaysia at
Carlist.my.

Sell your car fast with the best offer? Visit us at
CarlistBid.my
.


BMW Quietly Discontinued 6 Series Coupe

BMW has ceased global production of the 6 Series Coupe, though production of the 6 Series Gran Coupe and Convertible is unaffected.
Road & Track
 reported that BMW has stopped production of the 6 Series Coupe back in February. They added that it is unknown if BMW plans to resurrect the 6 Series Coupe any time soon. Despite that, North American buyers can still pick up a new 6 Series Coupe at dealer lots subject to availability of stock.
That may seem unlikely, as BMW has plan to revive its
8 Series
 nameplate, with an M8 being the high performance variant. The new BMW 8 Series is expected to be the company's flagship grand touring model, slotting above the 7 Series.
Closer to home, BMW Malaysia's 6 Series lineup consists of only one model, which is the 640i Gran Coupé, currently priced at RM788,800. The company had previously offered the 6 Series Coupe and Cabriolet, on top of the M6 Coupe and M6 Gran Coupe.


307 Biker Convoy Caught In PDRM Roadblock, Many Issued Summonses

A motorcycle convoy 307 riders strong was caught in
a roadblock
 near Tanjung Malim over the weekend, set up by PDRM’s Traffic division.

They awaited along a federal road after hearing reports through social media about a large group of motorcyclists riding along the North-South highway. Following additional investigation, they learned that the same convoy would be taking narrower roads toward a restaurant.

In a statement issued after the one-day
roadblock operation
 concluded, Muallim district police chief Mohd Hasni Mohd Nasir said: “The Muallim district police then deployed 28 officers and rank-and-file personnel to conduct the roadblock for the purpose of inspecting the motorcycles. The operation from 9am to 4pm saw 307 bikers being issued with summonses while another five summonses were issued to other vehicles.”

Typically, such large convoy participants police themselves to ensure the easy-going nature of their activities, such as to ensure to not attract unwanted attention from the authorities. However, the officers found numerous guilty of a number of violations.

Though minor in severity, the sheer number of riders involved meant that the count of summons issued for offences was significant, ranging from having expired road tax, no rear view mirrors, using modified/illegal exhaust pipes, having incomplete or fancy number plates, not in compliance with JPJ regulation,
and most dangerous of all
, riding without a license.

While these riders had likely not set out to cause harm or endanger the public, having that many motorcycles clog up federal roads can only be a recipe for disaster. We get it, everyone enjoys taking a road trip with some friends or even like-minded acquaintances, but doing so at such a large scale and involving others that are blatantly ignoring the law (such as riding without a license) sours the mood for the rest of us who want to drive or ride
safely for recreation
.


2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350 e Plug-In Hybrid Revealed: 2.6L/100km SUV

In conjunction with the launch of the
all-new 2016 GLC-Class
,
Mercedes-Benz
 also saw to it to introduce their fourth plug-in hybrid model from their new offensive of super-efficient vehicles.
Meet the Mercedes-Benz GLC 350 e: following in the footsteps of the
S 500 e
,
C 350 e
 and
GLE 500 e
, the GLC 350 is also primed to be the next-most affordable plug-in hybrid model in the range, following the C-Class.
*FULL REPORT: Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class Global Debut
Powered by a similar powertrain that drives the
C 350 e we drove recently in San Francisco
, the SUV PHEV model uses a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine that makes 211hp and 350Nm of torque, and a 116hp electric motor that’s integrated into the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed auto transmission.
Total system output for the GLC 350 e is rated at 320hp @ 5,000rpm and 340Nm of torque for 0rpm (zero!). An additional 10Nm of torque is achieved once the engine reaches 1,200rpm.
Claimed consumption figures for the GLC 350 e is rated at 2.6-litres/100km (combined), all the while emitting 60g/km of CO2.
Full electric driving range for the GLC plug-in is a total of 34km (top EV speed: 140km/h), courtesy of the high-voltage lithium-ion traction battery positioned just above the rear axle, in the boot. That also means that the standard 550 litres of cargo room in the boot is cut down to 395 litres in the GLC 350 e.
And just like its PHEV siblings before it, the GLC-Class plug-in gets the same comfort and efficiency systems we’ve seen Benz plug-in hybrids show off: route-based hybrid operating strategy, specific hybrid driving programs, haptic accelerator pedal, and pre-entry climate control.
For a clearer understanding of the GLC 350 e’s abilities, do check out our C 350 e and S 500 e reviews in San Francisco and Sweden, respectively.
2015 Mercedes-Benz C 350 e Plug-In Hybrid Review In San Francisco
2014 Mercedes-Benz S 500 Plug-In Hybrid Review In Sweden


2015 W205 Mercedes-AMG C63 S Launched In Malaysia – From RM 698,888

Just eight months after the left-hand drive Mercedes-AMG C63 made its global debut in Germany, the fastest, angriest Mercedes-Benz C-Class is now available in Malaysia, from RM 698,888 excluding insurance.
If you fancy an Edition 1 model - complete with loud looking body stripes and sportier looking interior trimming, it will cost you RM723,888 excluding insurance.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia have elected to go straight to the top of the range C63 S, skipping the ‘regular’ C63.
Only the sedan variant, and only the most powerful C63 S is available for now but should you fancy a
coupe version
, or a ‘more regular’ C63, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia will be happy to take your orders (price on application).
Drop the Benz
As with all recent AMG models, the ‘Benz’ name has been dropped. So the car seen here is officially known as Mercedes-AMG C63 S.
‘63’ Doesn’t Mean 63
As before, the ‘63’ in the previous generation C63 doesn’t mean 63, but the distance between its implied meaning and the car’s engine size is now even further than before.
The previous generation C63 had a 6.2-litre normally aspirated V8 that pushes out 457 hp and 600 Nm of torque.
This latest model that’s based on the W205 generation Mercedes-Benz C-Class has dropped the previous model’s brutish big lungs V8 for a smaller 4.0-litre biturbo V8.
Vital numbers
Power output is 510 hp, sustained from 5,500 rpm to 6,250 rpm. Pushing you down to the back of your seats is 700 Nm of torque, sustained from 1,750 rpm to 4,500 rpm.
That’s more than the W204 generation C-Classs’s final hurrah C63 Edition 507’s 507 hp and 610 Nm.
Despite the ridiculously high power output, the C63 S is only available with a rear-wheel drive transmission, the multi-clutch semi-automatic 7-speed AMG Speedshift MCT unit with Dynamic Select function – Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and Individual modes are available.
Traction out of corners is further aided by an electronically actuated mechanical locking rear differential.
Damping on all four corners is via the AMG Ride Control adaptive dampers
0-100 km/h is completed in 4.0 seconds, while the top speed is limited to 250 km/h, but can be raised to 290 km/h by opting for the AMG Driver’s Package (price to be confirmed).
If you must know, claimed fuel economy is 8.4-litre/100 km (NEDC combined cycle).


Review: Reevaluating the Honda HR-V RS e:HEV - A pleasant surprise

A few months ago, we had the opportunity to test the Honda HR-V Turbo, which left us thoroughly impressed with its excellence among small crossovers.

However, we must admit that our initial impression of the Honda HR-V e:HEV RS hybrid was less than favourable. Oh, how mistaken we were! The HR-V RS e:HEV has gracefully proven us wrong and exceeded our expectations.

Our journey to rediscover the
HR-V RS e:HEV began in Thailand
, where we initially experienced the third-generation Honda HR-V in its hybrid form.

Although we appreciated the striking new exterior and interior design, we were somewhat put off by the constant hum of the engine in the e:HEV variant.

However, our perception changed entirely when we encountered the Malaysian-spec Honda HR-V hybrid, which showcased a remarkable distinction from its Thai counterpart.

For some reason, it exudes an essence that closely resembles that of an electric vehicle, captivating our attention.

The Malaysian-spec HR-V RS e:HEV
has redefined our understanding of its hybrid capabilities. It feels remarkably different, elevating the driving experience to one that closely resembles the grace and tranquillity of an electric vehicle.

The incessant engine noise that hindered our enthusiasm in Thailand has been transformed, unveiling a newfound harmony and poise.

In retrospect, our initial dismissal of the HR-V e:HEV as a lesser vehicle
compared to the HR-V Turbo
 has been gracefully overturned. This hybrid variant has proven to possess its own unique charm and allure, providing a refreshing alternative to its Turbo sibling.

It beautifully combines the best of both worlds, blending fuel efficiency with a refined and fun driving experience.

If you're here considering in purchasing the 2023 Honda HR-V e:HEV, let us tell you that it can inject some serious fun into your urban adventures.

This zippy little car is undoubtedly one of the best city rides you can get your hands on. Thanks to its hybrid powertrain and remarkable fuel efficiency, the HR-V e:HEV is like a pocket-sized superhero ready to conquer the concrete jungle.

Let's talk about the HR-V e:HEV's fun factor. The RS e:HEV is equipped with a 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated Atkinson-cycle petrol engine + electric motor that produces 131PS and 253Nm (240Nm in the turbo) of torque in total. Its powertrain delivers a punchy performance that will have you grinning from ear to ear.

With instant torque and seamless acceleration from 0 rpm, merging into traffic becomes a breeze, and darting through city streets feels like a thrilling game. The best part? You'll be zipping around town while sipping fuel like a dainty tea party guest.

Picture this: From the moment we embarked on our week-long escapade with it, not a single drop of fuel was added to its reservoir. Yes, you read that correctly.

Throughout the memorable period, the HR-V e:HEV remained steadfast in its commitment to deliver an extraordinary range, surpassing all expectations. With astonishing finesse, it gallantly glided across the pavement, gracefully surpassing the 600-kilometre mark without so much as a single refuelling pit stop.

For those who yearn for the freedom to explore without being bound by the necessity of frequent refuelling, the Honda HR-V hybrid stands as a testament to Honda's future of automotive ingenuity.

Its ability to traverse vast distances without interruption defies the norm and embarks on a bold path of its own, setting a new standard in the realm of fuel efficiency and long-range capabilities.

While our admiration for the Honda HR-V e:HEV knows no bounds, it is essential to approach this assessment with a balanced perspective, acknowledging its imperfections alongside its commendable attributes.

When you hit the open road, the HR-V RS e:HEV does lose a bit of its oomph compared to its beefed-up sibling, the Honda HR-V Turbo. If you crave that extra boost of power for highway cruises or daring overtakes, the Turbo might be more your speed demon.

But fear not, because the HR-V e:HEV still deserves your attention and admiration.

Why, you ask? Well, it's all about that overall refinement, thanks to the hybrid powertrain. This beauty seamlessly transitions between electric and petrol power, creating a serene and whisper-quiet ride.

The cabin is a haven of tranquillity, shielding you from the chaos of the outside world. Plus, you'll be saving the environment one joyful ride at a time, with reduced emissions and a smug eco-friendly smile.

Speaking of cabin, the Honda HR-V distinguishes itself from its Civic counterpart, showcasing premium elements that contribute to an immensely gratifying and inviting driving environment.

The ergonomics of the cabin set a new standard, with every switchgear and piece of brightwork exuding a top-tier quality. Honda's thoughtful approach is evident in the knurled dials and knobs for the climate control, allowing for effortless adjustments to individual airflow preferences.

But it's not just the impeccable ergonomics and intuitive controls that earn our enthusiastic approval. The air conditioning system itself has been ingeniously designed to deliver a gentle breeze throughout the entire cabin, courtesy of Honda's innovative 'Air Diffusion System.'

Positioned in L-shaped vents at the top corners of the dashboard, the airflow creates a natural and refreshing ambiance, deviating from the typical direct blasts of air. It's a small detail that makes a remarkable difference, and in the HR-V, it's an effortless experience—no need for meticulous adjustments.

Moreover, the driving position in the HR-V surpasses that of any other small SUV in recent times. It exudes a commanding presence, akin to a mid-size SUV. The redesigned front seats which feels elevated contribute to this commanding perspective.

Now, here's an interesting tidbit. In the quirky realm of automotive mysteries, the Honda HR-V hybrid in the Thailand market didn't quite live up to its electrifying reputation.

The engine seemed to have a constant hum, like a never-ending chit-chat session. But fear not, because the HR-V e:HEV in our neck of the woods is a whole different ballgame. With a gentle touch on the throttle, it's like cruising in your very own electric wonderland, and sticks true to its EV mode.

So, should you consider the Honda HR-V e:HEV? Absolutely! It's the ultimate urban companion, bringing fun, efficiency, and refinement to your city escapades.

While it may not have the same grunt on open roads as its Turbo sibling, the HR-V RS e:HEV makes up for it with its electrifying charm. Just throttle moderately, and you'll feel like you're piloting your very own electric superhero.

So, grab the wheel, buckle up, and let the HR-V RS e:HEV take you on a joyride through the concrete jungle. Fun awaits!


10 Things You Need to Carry During Road Trips

Since it has been months since many of us hit the open road, it is important to check if everything we need is on board, so here's a checklist!

One of the things we have to absolutely love about Malaysia is that we are one of the countries with the most number of Public Holidays in the world, and these holidays often translate into long weekends, which could only mean one thing for many of us – road trips!

As fun as road trips are, it is vital to ensure that we are well prepared and well equipped to ensure that the journey goes well, especially in case of an emergency.

That being said, regardless of whether you’re travelling with friends, or family members comprising senior citizens and children, these are the 10 things that you need to have in the car to ensure a smooth journey for everyone.

1. Jumper cables

More often than not, we can’t really tell when exactly a vehicle’s battery is going to go kaput. Plus, there is always room for mistakes like forgetting to turn the headlights off and what not. Sometimes, there is also volt leakage in the car without us realising. So, it is important to have a jumper cable in the car so that we can jump-start the car if the battery dies, before driving to a safe location to start looking for a replacement battery.

2. Water, lots of water

It is important not only for the occupants to stay hydrated throughout a journey, but also for the car. Sometimes, cars, especially older ones, tend to overheat during long drives due to factors like a clogged radiator, or radiator leakage. So, it is always good to have a few big bottles of water in the car just in case.

3. Portable tyre inflator

Unless you are driving a car with run-flat tyres, a portable tyre inflator is a must-have during long journeys, as we don’t know what we might drive over that can cause a puncture. Imagine having a flat tyre in the middle of the night along the Karak Highway. We wouldn't recommend it!

4. A flashlight

A lot of Malaysians choose to travel at night, or very early in the morning to avoid congestion. It is going to be dark either way, and there is nothing more important than having some light upon request in case of an emergency. Oh, make sure that the flashlight has new batteries as well.

5. Power banks/ charger cables

We’re living in a time where we need our smartphones more than oxygen in order to live, and the last thing anyone would want during a road trip is to have their phones running out of juice. Plus, most cars only come with two power outlets. What if we have four phones with low battery at the same time? No Waze, no Spotify? Cancel the road trip, man!

6. Paper bags, big ones

A road trip is never complete without snacks and drinks on board, but where do we put all the rubbish? You don’t want empty cans and food wraps lying around the floor, do you?

7. First aid kit

You don’t know when you will need it. Better safe than sorry.

8. Wet wipes

Food or drinks spilled? There is a baby on board? Dead insects on the windscreen? Need to wipe your hands after having some oily yet yummy Pisang Goreng in the vehicle? Just have a pack of wet wipes in the car to “wipe” all of these issues away.

9. Umbrellas

No one knows just when the infamous Malaysian downpour will grace us with it presence, but it is coming, that’s for sure.

10. Toilet paper

The last thing you need during a road trip is to have a moody stomache, and to get caught at an inadequately equipped R&R toilet.

Did we miss anything? Let us know down below in the comments section!


Peugeot e-2008 gets Malaysian preview - 320km enough for this B-segment EV SUV?

At the ongoing Malaysia Autoshow 2023, Bermaz Auto Alliance provided a sneak peek of the Peugeot e-2008, which is the first all-electric version of the compact SUV in its history, and evidently the first EV Peugeot to be sold in Malaysia.

Of course, the example shown off at MAEPS might not exactly be aligned with the specifications and feature set of the final model coming to Malaysian showrooms, but it does give us hope that Peugeot models going forward will be equipped as GT variants instead of the lesser Allure.

The e-2008's appearance is quite similar to the regular 2008, but it includes some unique design elements, such as "e" badging on the side scuttles. It also features featuring body colour accents on the grille and front fog lamps, as well as 18-inch wheels.

Given the higher trim level, there’s a more premium material spread throughout the e-2008’s interior than we’re used to seeing here in the 2008. The seats, in particular, feature a variety of finishing and texture while the most distinguishing element here is the presence of switch-type gear selector instead of a traditional gear lever.

Being a B-segment SUV, albeit one powered by a single electric motor instead of a combustion engine, it will be pitted against the Hyundai Kona Electric, BYD Atto 3, and the Ora Good Cat upon launch.

First introduced globally in 2019, the e-2008’s specifications include a 50 kWh (46.2 kWh net) lithium-ion battery that can cover a distance of up to 320 km according to the WLTP standard. The front-mounted electric motor can generate 136 PS (134 hp or 100 kW) and 260 Nm of torque, enabling the e-2008 to reach a speed of 0-100 km/h in approximately 10 seconds and a maximum speed of 150 km/h.

The e-2008 has the capability to recharge its battery quickly via a CCS2 connection for DC fast charging with a maximum of 100 kW, allowing for 0-80% state of charge in only 30 minutes. Alternatively, an AC charging option is available through a Type 2 connection for up to 11 kW, which takes around 4.5 hours to reach full charge.

While that range and battery size might not upset the current crop of rivals, it is more than enough for a city runabout if you only plan to commute and charge once weekly. It’s endurance already manages to outlast the Mazda MX-30 by a significant margin.


All-New Subaru Forester Launched In Malaysia – 3 Variants, From RM139,788

A week after its first public appearance at the Carlist.my Drive Auto Fair 2019, the all-new fifth-generation Subaru Forester was officially launched earlier today at the new and upgraded Subaru showroom in Petaling Jaya.
Offered in three variants, the price of the all-new Subaru Forester, which comes with a 5-year / 100,000 km warranty, is as mentioned below:
Forester 2.0i-L – RM139,788
Forester 2.0i-S – RM149,788
Forester 2.0i-S ES – RM159,788
Sitting on the new Subaru Global Platform (SGP), the all-new Forester, which is fully imported from Thailand, is 30 mm longer, 20 mm wider, and 5 mm taller than before.
It also features a larger front grille with active shutters, redesigned LED headlamps (2.0i-S and 2,0i-S ES only), C-shaped LED DRLs, new tail lamps, new bumpers, as well as a new wheel design.
Inside, the all-new Forester does not only offer more head and leg room than the outgoing model, but also a larger boot (by 100 litres).
Power comes from a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre direct-injection 4-cylinder petrol engine which produces 156 PS and 196 Nm of torque, which is paired with a CVT-type gearbox and Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.
That being said, the list of standard features offered in the all-new Forester includes:
Pop-up headlamp washers
LED rear combination lamps
LED rear fog lamp
Automatic wipers
17-inch wheels
Roof spoiler
Leather seats
8-way power-adjustable front seats
One-touch folding switch for rear seats
Keyless entry and push-start ignition
3 12-volt power outlets
Dual zone air-cond
8-inch infotainment system with Bluetooth, HDMI connectivity
Rear view camera
Premium multi-function display
Subaru Intelligent Drive
X-Mode
Hill Descent Control
Auto Vehicle Hold
Active Torque Vectoring
Towing Vehicle Dynamics Control System
7 Airbags
Brake Assist
Brake Override
On top of these features, the 2.0-iS and 2.0i-S ES receive:
LED headlights with auto levelling
Steering responsive Headlights
Powered tailgate
LED front fog lamps
18-inch wheels
Silver-plated front & rear underguards
Silver-plated side claddings
Roof rails with loopholes
Aluminium pedals
The Forester 2.0i-S ES on the other hand, gets even more goodies like:
Heated door mirrors
Adaptive Cruise Control
Subaru Rear Vehicle Detection (SRVD)
Side View Monitor
Pre-Collision Braking
Throttle Management
Lane Sway and Departure Warning
Lead Vehicle Start Alert
Lane Change Assist
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Blind-Spot Detection system
Looking for a brand new Subaru? Get the best deals
here
.


The 2022 Mazda CX-8 Edges Closer To The Ideal SUV

Bermaz Motor recently updated the 2022 Mazda CX-8, equipping the elegant SUV with sharper looks, a more engaging drive, and a much wider choice of engines to boot.

In the Japanese automaker’s range of high riders, the CX-8 tends to fly a little under the radar. As their only 3-row SUV in the local line up, it doesn’t quite stand shoulder to shoulder with the CX-9 and its flagship status but definitely punches above its weight when it comes to practicality and sheer capacity.

Options Without Compromise

You’ll get a choice of either 6 or 7 seats with the former in particular delivering a sublimely luxurious experience to 2nd row passengers. Buyers can choose either two standalone ‘Captain Seats’ or one with a centre console and armrest. Not that the other passengers are found wanting either as the CX-8 comes standard with supple leather upholstery while the High Plus variants are treated to an even finer Nappa Leather in Deep Red.

The 8-inch Mazda Connect display infotainment system still offers class-leading user friendliness with its intuitive control knob interface but now supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity alongside a Qi wireless smartphone charging pad. The High variant, however, also adds Wireless CarPlay.

Interior Luxury, Exterior Beauty

There’s really no need to dwell too much on the Mazda’s interior quality as their other models have already carved a reputation for being plenty plush and well above expectations, peppered with an intuitively layered aesthetic that flows from the brand’s KODO: Soul of Motion philosophy that defines the exterior.

Speaking of which, the CX-8's first impression looks better than ever now thanks to a combination of cosmetic upgrades that’s headlined by a bolder front fascia that’s accented in gunmetal and chrome finish on its grille and bumper garnish.

In addition to the existing shades and fan favourites such as Soul Red Crystal Metallic, the new Polymetal Gray and the prominently featured Platinum Quartz add some welcome sophistication to Mazda’s already dynamic colour palette.

Power Or Athleticism - Why Not Both?

However, the real highlight of the 2022 Mazda CX-8 are its engines. As previously offered with a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre SkyActiv-G producing 192hp and 258Nm of torque, the 2.2-litre SkyActiv-D turbodiesel joins the range with 188hp and a very muscular 450Nm - ideal for those seeking maximum pulling power and fuel-sipping endurance while not sacrificing refinement.

The surprise inclusion here, though, is the 2.5-litre SkyActiv-G turbocharged petrol engine, lifted right out of the flagship CX-9. This is Mazda’s most athletic engine with 228hp and 420Nm which, fittingly, is also paired with their i-Activ AWD system to ensure maximum traction, optimal power/torque distribution, as well as enhanced stability and handling in all weather conditions.

A new feature for 2022 is G-Vectoring Control Plus or GVC Plus, a combination of technologies that manages steering input in tandem with torque distribution to ensure a stable yet dynamic drive at all times. Think of it as the next revolution in Traction Control tech. As many will attest to, this is something best experienced and felt than described. This is available across all variants.

At The Forefront Of Safety

Of course, the CX-8 also comes equipped with Mazda’s i-ActivSense driver assistance package that, in the 2.5L High 2WD and up, adds Autonomous Emergency Braking (Smart City Brake Support, front only), Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and an Adaptive Front-Lighting System.

Meanwhile, High Plus variants gain a more comprehensive suite that includes Smart City Brake Support (front and rear), Smart Brake Support (front and rear), High Beam Control, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist, and Mazda Radar Cruise Control.

Power, versatility, sophistication, prestige, and luxury encapsulates the essential appeal of the 2022 Mazda CX-8, which starts from just RM177,674 and can be experienced for yourself at Bermaz Auto’s Mazda Roadshow happening at 1Utama’s Oval Concourse between the 5th and 9th of October.

As before, each CX-8 comes with Mazda’s 5-year manufacturer’s warranty inclusive of 5-year free maintenance (or up to 100,000km whichever comes first).

Click here
 for more info on the 2022 Mazda CX-8.


All-New Megane R.S. 280 Cup EDC Sets Its Benchmark Time At The Sepang F1 Circuit – 2:38 Mins

In conjunction with the recently held Renault Sport Track Day Track Day, TC Euro Cars also conducted a timed run of the
all-new Megane R.S. 280 Cup EDC
 prior to the start of the track sessions. The Megane R.S. 280 CUP EDC bettered the previously recorded lap time by three seconds – clocking a 2:38 mins lap versus 2:41 mins by the Megane R.S. 265 CUP – on a stock car with the 19-inch Yokohama AD08R 245/35 tyres, the official tyre sponsor for the event.

The Megane R.S. is powered by a new four-cylinder 1.8-litre turbocharged engine that delivers maximum power of 280 PS and peak torque of 390 Nm – among one of the best in class, as well as a new Torsen mechanical and limited-slip differential.

Available with the CUP chassis, the Efficient Dual Clutch (EDC) transmission offers Multi-Change Down and Launch Control functions in Sport and Race modes, the former allowing drivers to shift down by several gears by pressing and holding down the left-hand shift paddle. A traditional six-speed manual transmission is also available.

Other highlight new features include the Megane’s 4Control four-wheel steering system – a world first-in-segment technology that further improves cornering efficiency, working in tandem with four rallying-inspired hydraulic compression stops to all shock absorbers.

Price-wise, the Megane RS with the manual gearbox retails at RM279,888 while the EDC-equipped version retails at RM299,888, on-the-road without insurance. These prices include a three-year/100,000km warranty.

A total of 30 Renault Sports owners put their skills and vehicle performance to the test at the Renault Sport Track Day Track Day, making a comeback with a twist as a night session at the Sepang International Circuit.

For the latest deals on Renault models, click
here
.


Go Auto Enters Commercial Vehicles Segment With Higer Ace Van

Go Automobile Manufacturing Sdn Bhd (GAM), the manufacturing arm of Go Auto Group of Companies launched its first commercial vehicle, the Go Auto-Higer Ace yesterday at the IOI Citymall Putrajaya.
Offered with two diesel engine options with a choice of either a 5-speed or 6-speed manual gearbox, the Go Auto-Higer Ace van’s pricing is as mentioned below:
3.0L 6-Speed 18-Seater - RM145,800
3.0L 6-Speed 15-Seater - RM145,300
3.0L 5-Speed 18-Seater - RM143,800
3.0L 5-Speed 15-Seater - RM143,300
2.5L 5-Speed 18-Seater - RM138,500
2.5L 5-Speed 15-Seater - RM138,300
Measuring 5,990 mm long, 1,880 mm wide, 2,285 mm in height, with a wheelbase length of 3,720 mm and 200 mm ground clearance, the Higer Ace van comes with dual sliding doors, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD).
In addition, the van also comes fitted with heavy duty axles, propeller shaft, and clutch similar to the ones fitted in Higer buses.
According to GAM, customers who purchase the Go Auto-Higer Ace van now will get to enjoy a 5-year / 150,000 km (whichever comes first) warranty, and also an introductory offer of RM5,000. Besides that, those who making bookings for the van at the IOI Citymall from 29th Nov to 2nd December 2018 will also get additional gifts.
Aiming to sell 400 units in 2019, Go Auto, which currently has 3 master dealers, 12 sales outlets, and 37 service centres nationwide, announced that it aims to provide a comprehensive range of public and private transportation solutions such as narrow vans, coasters, minibus, and coaches in the future.


New Honda HR-V Facelift Teased For Thailand

The new Honda HR-V facelift is expected to be launched in Thailand over the next few months, as indicated by this sole teaser image uploaded by Honda Thailand on Facebook.
Not many details are known, though it is likely that the Honda HR-V facelift will mirror the Japanese market model HR-V with LED headlights and LED front fog lights.
At the moment, the Thai market Honda HR-V is offered with a 1.8-litre i-VTEC four-cylinder petrol engine hooked up to a CVT-type automatic that sends power to the front wheels.
Sources in Thailand mentioned that the new HR-V facelift will feature a new Passion Red Pearl body colour that's currently offered in Japan.


Shell Helix Launches Protect, Power Lubricants – Suited for All Cars

Shell Malaysia Trading Sdn Bhd has introduced two new Shell Helix engine oils – Shell Helix Power and Shell Helix Protect.

According to the folks at Shell, these lubricants focus more on the benefits to users and less on technical specifications, making it easier to choose the right engine oil based on one’s driving style and needs.

So, what benefits do these lubricants give drivers?

Designed especially to cater to two main driving conditions – highways and rugged terrains that demand more power and acceleration; and stop-start traffic in cities that put engines under tremendous stress, Shell Helix Power and Shell Helix Protect lubricants feature special performance-focused additives that maximise engine power and deliver faster acceleration for smoother drives on highways, hilly terrains and open roads.

Compatible with all 0W, 5W or 10W specifications oils, both are suitable for most types of cars on Malaysian roads today.

The engine protection-focused additives in Shell Helix Protect also help cleanse engine components for longer engine life in cars that operate under stressful stop-start driving conditions in urban centres.

As low viscosity fully synthetic engine oils, both lubricants can flow faster to coat and protect key moving engine components during start-up as well.

This can contribute to less wear from cold starts, better fuel economy, lower carbon emissions and lower maintenance costs from longer oil drain intervals.

“With the new Shell Helix Power and Shell Helix Protect, we aim to return the important engine oil decision making to the car owners.  As the products’ names suggest, one gives you more power and the other gives you more protection. Simply choose one that suits your driving style or needs,” said Nyon Kam Yew, Shell Lubricants General Manager for Malaysia and Singapore.

Pricing for the new products are as mentioned below:

Shell Helix Power - RM280 for a 4-litre pack

Shell Helix Protect - RM240 for a 4-litre pack

In conjunction with the launch, Shell Malaysia is running a promotion where every customer will get a free replica Scuderia Ferrari race car with the purchase of a 4-litre pack of Shell Helix Power or Shell Helix Protect from any participating workshop.

Shell Malaysia also marked the launch of the new Shell Helix Power and Shell Helix Protect by distributing complimentary packs of the new engine oils and Shell Helix Care Kits to Grab driver-partners as part of its #BecauseWeCare initiative.


Gerak Malaysia Will Allow You To Travel Interstate IF You Absolutely Need To

From today onwards, if you need to travel between states in Malaysia, you can apply for permission via the Gerak Malaysia app. This is to provide some lenience to those who fled the Klang Valley during the initial phase of the MCO, which is now in its sixth week and will be going on for a few more weeks through the fasting month.

As a recap, when the MCO began the government initially allowed inter-state travel with permission by application at your nearest police station. This was quickly stopped after queues became impossible to manage and a potential hazard, and so everyone was pretty much told to stay wherever they landed.

Born as a collaboration between PDRM and MCMC, Gerak Malaysia will allow Malaysians to apply for the necessary permission by submitting their name, number of family members, travel details like origin and destination, and so on. This is important as it allows the government to track the movement between green, yellow, and red zones – and all kinds of contact and movement tracing is important. There is even a QR code as implemented in other countries – which will be personally tagged to you and probably usage-enforced at a later date.

This app is especially useful for students who are trapped at campuses out of town and those who want to return to their kampong. If you don’t have a smart device, you need not worry as you can now apply at police stations (once again), but to avoid overcrowding it is recommended that you call to book an appointment ahead of time.

Even with all this said, the Gerak Malaysia app is still in its fledgling phase and has not yet been approved by the National Security Council. There are estimates that movement permits will only be issued from the beginning of May onwards, and the Ministry of Health will have to weigh in on whether the volume of those wanting to travel interstate poses a health risk.

So think carefully before you decide to travel.


LA 2018: Porsche GT2 RS Clubsport Unveiled – 700 hp, Track-Ready

Just when you thought Porsche have already stolen the show at the ongoing 2018 Los Angeles Autoshow with the release of the
latest 911 model
, they go one better: releasing a track-honed beast called the 911 GT2 RS Clubsport.
The 700 hp racing version of the
 street-legal 911 GT2 RS
 is limited to 200 units globally, and will be eligible to run at Clubsport events, Porsche Club of America (PCA) track days, as well as selected motorsport meets.
The GT2 RS Clubsport (like the
track-only 935
) shares much of its drivetrain and chassis components with the road-going version, save modifications to chassis, suspension, electronics, body structure, and bodywork to ensure blistering times on any track.
The biggest difference in the Clubsport is that it’s a bonafide single seater with a weld-in roll cage for additional structural rigidity and safety. A Recaro full-bucket racing seat and six-point safety harness keep the driver firmly in place. Elsewhere, a Cosworth ICD color display instrument cluster provides data logging, while Porsche’s Sport Chrono clock and a vintage-style boost gauge relay other important information.
A three-point air jack system ensures quick pit stops, while a fire extinguishing system is fitted as standard. The road going car’s 64-litre tank is also replaced with a 115-litre (FT3) safety fuel cell.
The exterior receives Removable Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) front and rear lid with quick release latches, and an FIA-compliant CFRP roof with a removable escape hatch. The additions also include enlarged front air inlets with integrated LED headlights, and a CFRP rear wing for added downforce.
All in all, the Clubsport weighs in at 1,390 kg, or about 80 kgs less than a road-going GT2 RS, (less 50 kg if equipped with the Weissach Pack).
The Clubsport uses an adjustable dual brake circuit for the front and rear axle; six-piston aluminium monobloc brake calipers clamp down on 390 mm discs at the front, and four-piston items work on 380 mm discs at the back.
There are no changes to the 3.8-liter flat-six twin-turbocharged engine – considering it already produces a stellar 700 hp and max torque of 750 Nm – save the fitment of rigid mounts for the seven-speed dual clutch (PDK) transmission, which sends power through a racing optimised limited-slip rear differential.
The Clubsport version is still equipped with the company’s PSM (Porsche Stability Management) system which includes ESC, traction control, and ABS. Thanks to a map switch positioned on the center console, these assistance systems can be adjusted separately or switched off completely depending on the driving situation.
The suspension has also be upgraded for racing with stiffer 3-way racing dampers front and rear. Height, track, and camber adjustments are available depending on the track. One-piece forged light-alloy wheels (10.5J: front and 12.5J: rear), with a full suite of Michelin racing tyres enhance mechanical grip on the toughest of tracks.
Limited to 200 units, each 911 GT2 RS Clubsport retails for USD 478,000 excluding tax, shipping, and import fees which is a hefty price for a car you can’t use on the road; but note, it does come with air-conditioning.


Mitsubishi XPANDER Price Unveiled, RM 91,369

Pricing has never been so competitive for a seven-seater with the Mitsubishi XPANDER, and over 2,000 customers have voted with their wallets.

A lot of the focus these days has been on compact crossovers with both national and foreign manufacturers whipping the covers off their latest offerings to much fanfare and aplomb. But let us not forget the humble multi-purpose vehicle with its large occupant capacity and usually an element of ruggedness - especially for our country. Many families have grown and moved around in an
MPV
, which makes it an especially important segment to fight in. For Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia, that latest model is the XPANDER - yes, all caps - and the price has finally been announced at RM 91,369.

Since
bookings
 for this seven-seater crossover have opened, more than 2,000 customers have put their faith in the three diamond star with their wallets. Part of this is also due to the sales tax exemption that expires at the end of 2020, so many customers are grabbing new vehicles as quick as they can. With four colours to choose from - Titanium Grey, Quartz White, Diamond Black, and Red Metallic - the XPANDER represents a more youthful approach to the market that hasn't been seen since the
Mirage
.

Powering the XPANDER is a 1.5-litre MIVEC petrol engine that makes 105 PS and 141 Nm of torque - pretty par for the course in this market segment, as is the four-speed automatic transmission that's mated to the engine. In many ways, the formula is pretty consistent among offerings, but the party trick for the XPANDER is its flat-folding second AND third-row seats that provide an impressive amount of cargo-carrying capacity if need be. Most options will allow a fold but it won't exactly be flat or flush. Watch this
video
 to see how it works.

The XPANDER is not without its features, with a roof-mounted air con vents to keep rear passengers cool, a 9-inch audio system with Android Auto and Apple Car Play functionality, a 4.2-inch high contrast meter for engine metrics, and your usual suite of passive safety systems like Active Stability Control and Electronic Brake-Force Distribution. Should you go for the Authorised Dealer Package, you even get a Driving Video Recorder and an All Round Monitor - the latter of which is known as a 360-degree camera or bird's-eye view for parking and manoeuvring.

For more latest car news, reviews, car buying guides and videos visit us at Carlist.my
Auto News
.

Check out all the best new & used car deals in Malaysia at
Carlist.my.

Sell your car fast with the best offer? Visit us at
CarlistBid.my
.


Hyundai Showcases The World’s First Self-Driving Fuel Cell EVs

Hyundai Motor Company has announced that its next generation fuel cell electric vehicles have succeeded in completing a self-driven 190 km journey in Korea.
This is the first time in the world that level 4 autonomous driving has been achieved with fuel cell electric vehicles.
Until now, autonomous driving has been demonstrated only on selected sections of Korean domestic roads and at a limited speed - this is the first time autonomous vehicles have operated on public highways at 110 km/h, the maximum speed allowed by law on Korean highways.
Three Hyundai vehicles completed the journey, all based on the Nexo - Hyundai’s next-generation fuel cell electric vehicle which is scheduled to be released in Korea next month.
According to Hyundai, all vehicles were equipped with level 4 self-driving technology, as defined by the SAE international standards and equipped with 5G network technology.
Building on the successful demonstration of Hyundai’s vehicles which drove autonomously in Las Vegas during the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) early last year, the cars feature a number of advanced technologies that enable them to recognise surrounding vehicles more accurately and make better judgements at junctions and navigate through toll gates by accurately calculating the toll gate’s width and position.
The vehicles were also able to pinpoint their position on a map by using external sensors fitted for situations when the GPS signal was interrupted, such as going through underground tunnels.
Utilising the 5G network of KT Corp, a Korean mobile service provider, the test vehicles were equipped with five new advanced information technologies, all accessed through a user interface (UI) that provides an intuitive user experience.
Capable of covering close to 700 km on a single charge of hydrogen, the Nexo, which takes only five minutes to refuel, came with features like Hyundai’s Home Connect – a car-to-home connectivity technology which enables the user to access and control “Internet of Things” (IoT) devices installed in their smart home.
They can view home camera images in real-time, control the lighting, remote door lock, control television, and even manage home energy systems.
In addition, there was the Assistant Chat technology which allows users to ask questions to a Chat Bot with simple voice commands and receive answers in the form of text or images.
There was also the Wellness Care system which monitors health information of passengers seated in the rear of the vehicle, such as their stress level, heart rate, and mood state. They can also access relaxing therapeutic services and connect with a health consultant through a real-time video call.
Last but not least, the Nexo also came with “Noise-Away” cabin noise reduction technology and “Mood Care” which provided rear door mood lighting when the music player or Wellness Care was active.
With the completion of the testing, Hyundai Motor Group is preparing for the commercialisation of the standard Level 4 compliant autonomous-driving system in smart cities by 2021.
The company also announced its plans at CES 2018 last month to jointly develop self- driving technology with Aurora Innovation; a U.S. based autonomous driving start-up, where it plans to commercialise the technology for fully autonomous driving by 2030.


Audi: The Master Of Branding

In an article by Thomson Dawson, he wrote, "Brands are not things; rather brands are a representation of a highly valued idea that resides in the minds of consumers,"

The human mind is fickle and emotional, it has limited capacity, and it resists confusion. But on the other hand, once a mind is made up, it is hard to change. This is because the mind is more impressed by what it already knows, than by something else that is new.

Hence becoming the "top-of-mind" brand takes time and effective messaging, vice versa, it would totally s*ck to be the second or third guy trying to build that image into the minds of the customer.

Before 1965, a prospective buyer for a midsized luxury sedan would most likely have three options: Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Jaguar. Other alternatives might have included a Volvo or a Ford. Nowhere in that equation would an Audi have stood.

Yet, in the three decades that followed (and the years after), Audi has catapulted its brand status and prestige from a relative outlier to rank amongst the upper echelons of the automotive world.

But, it wasn't smooth sailing, to say the least.

The modern Audi as we know it was formed in 1969, when Auto Union GmbH and NSU Motorenwerke AG merged to form Audi NSU Auto Union AG. The merger of the southern German subsidiaries marks the first initiation of a unified Audi brand.

But it wasn't until 1985 when Audi NSU Auto Union AG was renamed Audi AG, and the company’s headquarters moved from Neckarsulm to its current base, Ingolstadt.

Initial growth of the company was hampered in the USA when allegations of unintended accelerations (when braking) of the Audi 5000 model (a best seller) caused widespread panic amongst owners (not to mention class action lawsuits) that threatened to wipe out the company whole.

Audi eventually solved the issue, recalled affected vehicles, and rebranded its 4000 and 5000 models to the 100 and 200, which would later become the A6 and A8 respectively, and soldiered on.

It wasn't until the mid to late 1990s that the Audi brand saw a resurgence of interest and customers.

A lot of this was down to intrinsic talent and engineering of Audi vehicles - characterised in many cases by the company's maverick spirit towards engineering their cars - guided by their longstanding motto "Vorsprung Durch Technik" which simply translates to "Progress Through Technology".

The 1990s saw a technological revolution at Audi, which introduced such technologies as aluminium construction, spaceframe bodies, powerful 5- and 6-cylinder engines, and of course its "Godlike" Quattro AWD system.

But if we could pinpoint a single moment in Audi's history in which it stunned the world and went guns-blazing for Mercedes-Benz and BMW - it was in 2006, when Audi launched the R8.

The mid-engined V8 halo-car combined almost all of Audi's technological prowess at the time and introduced for the first time the Daytime Running Lights, a feature that became synonymous with the brand and literally revolutionised headlight design as we now know it.

The
R8
 put Audi on a pedestal for the world to see, and now the world wanted in - between 2002 and 2019, Audi sales in the US have grown nearly 161 percent, BMW and Mercedes sales grew 40 and 67 percent respectively in the same period. Audi delivered a total of of 1,845,550 cars worldwide in 2019.

However, another crucial contributor to Audi's success in the formative years was its brand image. The initial lure of the brand rested with its obscurity. Hence, it appealed to a younger audience  - the Gen Y and Millenials - because they wanted to drive something different, something fresh, and preferably not something their parents drove, i.e.: the Mercedes or BMW.

Audi knew this, they also knew that their messaging and brand positioning had to be different - which brings us to another aspect Audi is brilliant at... marketing and branding.

Evocative advertisements

Much of the wow factor behind Audi's advertisements are the sheer gravity and creativity of their advertisements and commercials.

While Mercedes-Benz showed off the engineering of its W124 E-Class within glossy
wind tunnels and darkened studios
, Audi unforgettably drove its 100 CS Quattro up a near-vertical Ski Jump slope.

And while BMW advertised the power of its BMW (E30) 3 Series' by having a fleet of them
tear down a desert in anger
, Audi put a beautiful brunette in a saucy red number (and high-heels) and had her chase down a glider from behind the wheel of an Audi Quattro coupe.

How's that for different!

They poke fun at the competition

Photo credit:
Wonderful Engineering

In certain markets with more liberal advertising laws, Audi could hardly ever resist trolling their competitors with downright witty and intelligent billboards - most often poking fun at their closest German rivals BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

Intelligent product placement

Real Madrid FC
photo credit

Beyond typical mass marketing, Audi also epitomised cool on the silver screen. While this wasn't new - James Bond and Aston Martin had already done it years before - when Audi's were featured in movies, they were almost protagonists of the storyline itself.

Case in point: Will Smith's Audi RSQ from iRobot, or Agent 47's RS7, or even Ironman's Audis from the first three installments of the franchise.

Besides blockbuster action movies reinforcing Audis as the car of the future, Audi also found other ways of tieing their brand across prominent landscapes and personalities.

From football to the alpine and nordic winter sports and the young field of eSports to the world’s most popular tournament series for amateur golfers, Audi has always found innovative ways of placing the four-ringed logo for the world to see.

In many ways, Audi's Marketing and Digital Director, Benjamin Braun perfectly summed up the company's marketing strategy in just four words, "We dare to be different."

No one could argue that to be untrue.


Pickup Trucks, the Unsung Heroes of MCO Lockdown

While we human beings have been ordered to limit our movements as much as we can by our leaders to prevent the COVID-19 virus from spreading, the things we need such as food, groceries, as well as other essentials still need to be transported in order to ensure that our day-to-day lives go on as smoothly as possible.

Large commercial vehicles aside, one type of vehicle that is needed more than ever during this lockdown is none other than the pickup truck.

Be it medical equipment for hospitals, providing medical assistance to folks living in rural areas, fresh vegetables and other food items from farms to shops and homes, or any other items that needed to be delivered to doorsteps, every time there is a need for things to be transported, pickup trucks are there to save the day.

Thanks to their impressive load capacity, pulling power, good fuel economy, durability, and reliability, pickup trucks have been doing exceptionally well in providing frontliners from various industries the opportunity to fulfil their duties and tasks, and this is not only in Malaysia but on a global scale.

Take Thailand for example – “Phum-Phung” trucks, which were a prominent feature in Thailand in the past, have made a comeback. These are the pickup trucks that normally sell groceries that are brought straight from the fresh market to housing areas.

In Malaysia, vegetable suppliers, like e-Petani here, are depending a lot on pickups to transport fresh vegetables from Cameron Highlands straight to homes in the Klang Valley, and this is just the tip of the iceberg.

Even the Royal Malaysian Police and Malaysian Relief Agency as pictured below, are relying on 4x4s to reach out to people, conduct rescue missions, and to assist in road blocks.

Just like the few examples here, many more organisations and individuals all over the world are depending on their pickup trucks to provide whatever assistance they can, and to make sure that the people get all the essential services and products that they need.

That being said, it would not be an exaggeration to say that pickup trucks played a big role in helping us to battle the global COVID-19 pandemic, would it?

How about you? Are you a pickup truck owner with a story to tell about your trucks contribution during the MCO period? Let us know in the comments section below!


Toyota Sienta to Launch at sub-RM100k Price

We have reported on a number of occasions that
UMW Toyota Motor
 has
plans to launch
 the
Sienta 7-seater in Malaysia
 to slot in
between the existing Avanza and Innova MPVs
. The recent preview of the vehicle at the
My AutoFest 2016 in Serdang
 effectively confirmed the model’s impending arrival.
We got in touch with a Toyota dealer today, who revealed to us that the Sienta will launch in Malaysia with a choice of two variants – both priced below RM100k with insurance and GST.
Unlike the longitudinal-engine rear-wheel driven Avanza and Innova, the Sienta sports a transverse engine configuration with front-wheel drive, although its 1.5-litre NR-series engine with Dual VVT-i effectively the same unit as found in the Avanza, albeit rotated by 90 degrees around the engine room.
Rated outputs measure at 107PS and 140Nm, higher than the Avanza’s 105PS and 136Nm. Standard transmission is a CVT with seven virtual ratios for manual selection. Impressively, rear disc brakes are standard in both variants, as is electronic stability control, first time by Toyota at this price range.
Pricing for the Sienta will start at RM92,900 for the 1.5G model, which comes with the following features:
Automatic halogen projector headlamps
LED daytime running lights
LED tail lights
Rear fog lights
Power sliding rear passenger door – left side only
185/60 R15 tyres, alloy rims
Rear air-con vents
Black fabric seats
50:50 split-folding second and third row seats
Audio – 2 DIN CD player, radio, MP3, AUX, USB, Bluetooth
Monochrome trip computer
Safety – ABS, EBD, BA, Hill Assist, Electronic Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRC), ISOFIX
Optional – Window Tint. Reverse camera (in conjunction with DVD player)
A RM7,000 upgrade to RM99,900 for the 1.5V variant buys the following additional features:
Automatic LED projector headlamps
Power sliding rear passenger door – both sides
195/50 R16 tyres, alloy rims
Smart keyless entry
Auto climate control
Brown fabric seats
Digital video recorder
Infotainment – 2 DIN DVD player, 6.8-inch touchscreen, radio, MP3, AUX, USB, Bluetooth, Voice Recognition
Optitron instrument cluster with colour TFT trip computer
Leather-wrapped steering with audio controls
Standard – Window Tint. Reverse Camera.


Ken Block Dead At 55 In Snowmobile Accident

Driving legend, sideways driving icon, pro rally driver, and
co-founder of both Hoonigan
 and DC shoes, Ken Block, has passed away, meeting his end in a snowmobile accident around Woodland, Utah at approximately 2pm local time.

Local police later released a statement confirming his death, saying that Block was scaling a particularly steep slope near the Mill Hollow area when his snowmobile “upended, landing on top of him,” pronouncing him dead at the scene.

He had set out with a group but was alone at the time of the incident. The Utah state Medical Examiner’s Office have yet to determine the official cause of death.

Block was known to millions for his daredevil driving that combined precision rallying and drifting with an urban automotive obstacle course, labelling it
the Gymkhana
 series which went on to spawn multiple extremely popular follow ups and raking in tens of millions of views online.

This news is a tragic start to 2023, for sure.

Block, a native of California, had only recently turned 55 years old this past November 21st. He is survived by his wife Lucy and three children, who had all accompanied him on this trip to to the snowy peaks of the resort town of Park City.

We'll remember him as surely he would want us to: going fast and very sideways in a car barely visible through a cloud of tyre smoke.


GT-R 2022 Baharu Dilancarkan – Nissan Sudah Ketandusan Idea?

Mungkin sudah tiba masanya
Nissan
 perkenalkan GT-R generasi baharu atau lebih tepat,
GT-R R36
 berbanding model edisi khas atau facelift daripada
R35
?

Bagi yang terlepas, Nissan baru sahaja melancarkan dua varian baharu GT-R T-spec 2022 edisi terhad untuk pasaran Jepun di mana hanya 100 unit ditawarkan secara undian. T-spec pada model ini bermaksud trend dan traction di mana tahap kelebaran kesemua roda telah ditambah bagi memberikan lebih ketegaran kepada
tayar
 untuk pemanduan yang lebih lancar dan sensitif. Sistem suspensi kedua-dua varian baharu GT-R ini telah ditala semula menjadikan ia lebih ringan.

Ada 2 Varian Ditawarkan:

Premium Edition T-spec - Harga 15,904,900 yen (RM600k)

Track Edition Engineered by Nismo - Harga 17,881,600 yen (RM675k)

Apa Yang Baru?

Warna – midnight purple, millennium jade

Brek seramik karbon

Spoiler gentian karbon

Penutup enjin eksklusif,

Lencana T-spec di hadapan dan belakang kereta

Rim aloi Rays bersaiz 20 inci

Bumbung gentian karbon dan penutup but

Beberapa komponen ditambah baik NISMO

Tiada perubahan dari segi enjin berbanding edisi terdahulu di mana kedua-dua varian baharu ini masih menggunakan enjin VR38DETT 3.8 liter V6 dengan pengecas turbo berkembar, menghasilkan 570 PS dan tork maksima 637 Nm. Reka bentuknya masih kekal dengan rupa ikonik R35 yang amat disukai ramai.

Kalau nak ikutkan, GT-R R35 dah masuk 14 tahun usianya pada tahun ini. Mungkin sudah tiba masanya untuk memberi ruang kepada R36 pula untuk menyinar? Nissan kelihatan seakan-akan ketandusan idea setelah pelbagai model facelift atau
edisi khas bagi GT-R R35
 ini dihasilkan. Walaupun R35 itu memang cantik, tapi sampai bila Nissan nak cucuk botox pada R35 daripada hasilkan generasi baharu GT-R?

Menurut Nissan, reka bentuk R35 masih lagi segar dan bersifat moden, jadi tidak perlu untuk melakukan perubahan yang begitu drastik pada rekaannya. Tapi setelah 14 tahun di pasaran, tidakkah ia terlalu tua untuk kekal bersaing memandangkan kini terdapat banyak kereta yang jauh lebih maju dihasilkan ibarat cendawan tumbuh selepas hujan? Mungkin kini tiba masanya untuk Nissan maju ke hadapan dan menaik taraf sepenuhnya R35 ke R36.

Pada tahun lalu, rekaan kereta konsep
GT-R50
 yang dihasilkan oleh Italdesign telah direalitikan oleh Nissan. Reka bentuknya masih mengekalkan ciri-ciri R35, namun ia kelihatan agak sedikit berbeza berbanding R35 yang lain kerana tampak lebih moden dan agresif. Walau bagaimanapun, pelancaran model tersebut bukanlah pengganti kepada R35, tapi hanya dihasilkan bersempena ulang tahun ke 50 Nissan GT-R. Cuma 50 unit sahaja ditawarkan bagi model tersebut. Mungkin Nissan nak test market dahulu dengan melakukan beberapa perubahan moden pada GT-R nya untuk tengok reaksi umum?

Mungkin juga Nissan masih teragak-agak untuk melancarkan R36 yang sebelum ini dilaporkan akan hadir dengan versi hybrid atau elektrik sepenuhnya. Menurut Hiroshi Tamura, orang yang bertanggungjawab dalam penghasilan R36 berkata, ianya bergantung pada permintaan pengguna. Yang paling penting, beliau berkata tidak banyak perubahan akan berlaku pada R36 memandangkan rekaan R35 masih bersifat moden dan mampu untuk terus kekal relevan.

Mengikut trend automotif yang kini mula untuk menghasilkan lebih banyak kereta
hybrid atau elektrik
, tak mustahil Nissan akan keluarkan GT-R R36 dalam versi hybrid atau elektrik sepenuhnya, dengan masih mengekalkan imej
Godzilla
 yang sporty dan agresif.

Dari segi prestasi, memang tidak dinafikan bahawa GT-R R35 masih boleh bersaing dengan pesaing lain. Tapi bagaimana pula dari segi teknologi dan keselamatan yang sering dipertingkat setiap tahun? Di Australia, GT-R R35 bakal dihentikan jualannya pada akhir Oktober tahun ini kerana ia sudah tidak lagi lulus dengan undang-undang keselamatan terbaharu negara berkenaan. Oleh itu, Nissan GT-R tidak lagi akan diimport ke pasaran Australia selepas 31 Oktober, 2021.

Memandangkan usia GT-R R35 yang sudah berusia, nampaknya dah tiba masanya untuk mereka lancarkan GT-R baharu yang lengkap dengan teknologi dan ciri keselamatan semasa untuk kekal relevan bukan hanya dari segi prestasi, malah tahap teknologi serta ciri keselamatannya turut dipertingkat. Apa kata anda?


New Ford Ranger Arriving This Month - Raptor Plus 10-Speed AT Variants

Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC) today announced that the new Ford Ranger is scheduled for launch in Malaysia at the end of this month.
The line-up will consist of the Ranger XL, XLT, Wildtrak, and the much anticipated Ranger Raptor. For the first time, SDAC will also be introducing the Ranger XLT+ variant to the Malaysia market.
There will be three engine options - the new 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo diesel engine producing 213 PS and 500 Nm, a 2.0-litre Si-Turbo diesel engine churning out 180 PS and 420 Nm, and the 2.2-litre TDCI diesel engine which makes 160 PS and 385 Nm of torque.
The 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo diesel engine will not only be powering the Ranger Raptor, but also the Wildtrak, which will have two output levels (180 PS for 4x2 and 213 PS for 4x4)
Also offered for the first time is the 10-speed automatic gearbox in class. There is also a 6-speed manual transmission for some variants.
Powertrain aside, the new Ranger features many of Ford’s latest innovations which are first and only in-class such as:
Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
Forward Collision Warning
Lane Departure Warning
Adaptive Cruise Control
Easy Lift Tailgate
Other key features include:
HID headlights with LED DRLs and fog lamps
A 230 V power socket
Sync 3 infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, AppLink
8-inch touch screen display with Bluetooth, GPS, voice recognition
Hill Descent Control
E-locking rear differential
6 airbags
800 mm water wading
4x4 Shift on the fly
Dual zone electronic automatic temperature control
That said, more details of the new Ranger will be revealed when it is launched later this month, so stay tuned and watch this space.


2015 Hyundai Veloster Turbo Full Review - Appeal Of The Sporty Nonconformist

Call up memories of your typical daily commute, you’ve probably not seen many a
Veloster
 - the unique meddling of hatchback and coupe from
Hyundai
 that hit Malaysian showrooms in 2012 - roaming around. And perhaps even fewer of these sportier, more powerful
Veloster Turbo
 variants.
Alright, perhaps you’ve seen a couple to a few. But not that many, and there’s a likely chance that the sight of it trigged a second look or at least remained in your periphery until it was completely out of sight.
Simultaneously, that happens to be the Veloster Turbo’s achilles heel and surprise feature: it’s rare enough to make people notice, and unique enough for them to wonder about it. This may be stretching the thought experiment somewhat, but if you see a bright red Ferrari with its wedge shaped body coming down the highstreet, yes you will look (probably) but only long after you realised it was there. You can take your time before tilting or head or turning your eye because you already knew what it was.
Not quite so with the Veloster Turbo. Eyes linger on this car just because it takes a more than just a passing glance to figure out what it is or why it has just one rear door, and perhaps why is it so yellow? That unfamiliarity makes it stand out.
Unfamiliarity does not translate well to the folks at Hyundai, I imagine, as I’m sure, like every other manufacturer, they’d love to sell as many as they can. Let the Veloster (Turbo variant or not) be as ubiquitous as a Myvi, they might say. Minus the Myvi reference.
Commendably, Hyundai dared to push their HND-3 Concept from 2007 further, turning it into the production car that aims to combine the looks of a coupe while retaining the practicality of a hatchback. And after three years, have they refined the formula enough to make their bold Veloster into the car they wanted it to be, while at the same time taking it into the fringes of hot hatch territory with the new Turbo?
Key Specs
Price:
RM154,437, inclusive of GST and excise duty
Engine:
 1,591cc turbocharged 4-cylinder Gamma T-GDI
Power:
186PS @ 5,500rpm
Torque:
 265Nm @ 1,500-4,500rpm
Transmission:
 7-Speed Dual Clutch (DCT)
The Outside
Let’s deal with a couple of key points from the get-go: (1) Yes, this one is very yellow, and that does lend to its appeal; (2) That third door is always placed on the passenger’s side, so on left hand drive markets, the door will be on the right side as opposed to the units sold in Malaysia.
On to the actual look of the Veloster Turbo, it doesn’t stray far towards ostentation to display its enhanced performance or sporting pretensions, but as the car draws closer you’d be able to appreciate the styling changes over the standard Veloster. It’s still a cool if quirky looking car, though. The bigger wheels in a gunmetal finish are the most obvious giveaway, before noticing the lowered stance, the more aggressive front fascia and the large and dark hexagonal grille, more angular fog lamps, front lip, side skirting and twin circular exhaust pipes flanked by a rear diffuser.
On the whole, they are a welcome addition to the Veloster’s already unique styling and adds a healthy dose of visual drama. It might not have the flowing lines of something from an Italian marque, but it is a striking thing to look at in the flesh.
The Inside
Step inside and it becomes clear that Hyundai has come a long way in refining the interior design of their cars across its lineup, with functional placement of controls, decent aesthetics, and a clever combination of materials that do not quickly betray its more ‘affordable’ rank.
I say ‘quickly’ because upon closer inspection, the aluminium isn’t so much metal as plastic and the textured material that comprises most of the dashboard is acceptable if not luxurious. Having said that, it does feel like a solid place to be in, and once you close the doors and adjust your seating just so, also quite accommodating and airy, even for a 6-foot 4-inch friend of mine. While it is possible to fit a pair of average-sized adult in the back seats, the sloping roofline means headroom will likely be a pressing issue, and they won’t be at all too comfortable over a long distance haul. Still, there’s more room there than in your traditional coupe.
The leather quality is also decent and the seats themselves are supportive and comfortable, but I predict that the grey accent colours with the word ‘Turbo’ imprinted on them will show their age rather quickly against the black seats. The recessed instrument gauges are pretty standard-fare Hyundai - a tachometer and speedometer flanks a digital readout of your fuel, temperature, and such. While they are sharp and informative, it won’t be a bragging point or, inversely, a distraction.
The infotainment unit here is decent as well, with a touchscreen centre-mounted LCD to control your media options and telephony features once paired to a device via Bluetooth. It was a fairly straightforward setup process and there was no issue scrolling through media or taking/ending calls through the steering wheel buttons. However, the panel itself is sharp and responsive to touch but doesn’t handle bright sunlight particularly well and the interface could do with a visual overhaul.
The Drive
Despite what you may think of its outward hints of performance or its Turbo branding, I’ll begin this section by saying that this Veloster Turbo, with its 183hp engine, does not quite deliver the out-and-out grunt to match the established hot hatch contenders.
Granted, it is a fair amount faster than its naturally aspirated sibling but that sensation of speed is figuratively muted somewhat by the engine’s the lack of character. However, it can be a fun experience when tackling short sprints if you’re able to anticipate the power delivery and squeeze in the throttle earlier to compensate for its slightly sluggish throttle response.
There’s a satisfying amount of induction noise coupled with an exhaust note that is a bit on the coarse side but is most welcome nonetheless and almost makes up for the engine’s less than colourful personality.
That’s assuming you’re in the best gear, because I found the 7-speed DCT box to seem a little absent-minded when predicting what gear I wanted to be in, especially when driving harder. Luckily, there’s shift paddles behind the functional, though slightly bland, steering wheel, and with that you’re able modulate that juicy early torque delivery and keep the engine in its sweet spot for longer. Developing a rhythm with the Veloster Turbo is quite a rewarding experience.
Around the corners and over bumps, the Veloster’s suspension is more compliant than I was expecting while body roll was kept fairly at bay. The steering is accurate enough for me to try a few riskier moves around bends, but that only came after gradually pushing the car quicker and quicker to build sufficient confidence.
It is at its best at moderate speed, driving briskly but not overly so while leaning on that torque to pull you out of corners once the car’s weight is left to settle - that gets the all-important smile factor kicking in. It is eager to change direction into a corner, and its aluminium engine can be thanked for the reduction of mass at the nose that might have otherwise corrupted the turn-in. Yes there are faster things out there and more precise instruments out there, but for the majority of my time driving the Veloster Turbo, I wasn’t wanting for power. And at low speeds, it soaks up bumps well and with the kind of upmarket thud you expect from more expensive offerings.
The Practicality
Better looks and more access than a coupe, but not quite the rounded practicality package that a proper hatchback offers. You take the good with the bad. But really, is rear seat space really a paramount concern, or would you trade that for a shapelier but quirkier vehicle?
You don’t have to answer very carefully because Hyundai has been trying to convince us that it has already squared this circle with the addition of that single rear passenger-side door. In my opinion, utmost function over form does not weigh heavily on the prospective customer that would even consider a car like this.
However, passenger comfort aside, the boot is quite commodious and recessed enough to fit the thickets of travel bags, and for its size there are loads of storage compartments inside the Veloster Turbo - large storage areas on each front door, dual cupholders just south of the gear shift panel and another pair in between the two rear seats, even a large spot lined with grippy material perfect for your smartphone along the centre console.
There’s good all-round visibility and despite a line running across the rear window, everything is view for easy reversing (the rear camera helps too).
The more powerful engine does yield some impressive cruising fuel economy figures too, with average fuel consumption dipping to around 6.5-litres/100km on the highway.
Wrapping Up
A solid offering from Hyundai that catches your attention with its quirky but aggressive looks and unusual layout that defies conventional classification, but with effort made to ensure it is a comfortable and quick everyday car that also happens to hold its own admirably through the bends. It showcases much of what the South Korean marque is now capable of, but also highlights where their shortcomings - engine and transmission calibration, as an example - are. There's many reasons why European cars (fast hatchback, in particular) justify their higher price tag, but the Veloster Turbo manages to offer a lot of their perks without that extra cost. But you are sacrificing the badge.
It’s got the right ingredients to satisfy a lot of younger customers, but is a Hyundai something you’d want to buy when looking for a sportier car? Perhaps not. And that’s a shame. Because while I mentioned that the turbocharged engine lacks effervescence and personality, the car as a whole is dripping with character.
The Veloster Turbo is ultimately something of a Catch 22, at least towards Hyundai: sell more Veloster Turbos, and the rarity will cause those who want that differentiation to look elsewhere. Driving the Veloster Turbo garners more eyes turning your way in curiosity and intrigue, and while it isn’t all that special to drive (quickly), it does make you feel refreshingly distinct on the road. Pulling up for a quick dash at a petrol station got me (and the Veloster Turbo, of course) more looks than the Audi S5 parked a few pumps down. True story.
If the RM154k Veloster Turbo had only the Volkswagen Golf GTI to contend with, its price would have considerably more draw. But since 2012, when the Veloster first made its appearance, other manufacturers have added hot versions of their smaller hatchbacks with dynamics that trump the Veloster Turbo’s handily.
The Ford Fiesta ST, the Volkswagen Polo GTI, the Renault Clio R.S 200, Peugeot 208 GTI - they’re all priced squarely in the bracket where the Veloster Turbo has made its stand, leaving its quirky character as possibly the only factor left to swing customers in its favour.
For the nonconformist, that could be enough, but it likely won’t be for the pragmatist. On which side do you land?