Trade-Up with Hyundai

It’s the year-end and the season of giving so if you’re thinking of giving yourself or a loved one a very special present, then Hyundai has some cheer to spread this month.

For a very very limited time, until 31st December 2020, you will get to enjoy an overtrade feature when you trade in your existing car for a Hyundai. You will get to enjoy up to RM5,000* extra when you trade in your existing ride for any of the new Hyundai’s available.

Trade-in a Hyundai for a new Hyundai - you get an extra RM5,000, trade it any other makes for a new Hyundai - you get an extra RM3,000. All of the above is only applicable when you trade-in your vehicle with Sime Darby Auto Selection.

And to be fair with the launch of the 2020 Hyundai Kona, 2020 Hyundai Sonata and 2020 Hyundai Elantra or the
family favorite, the 7-seater SUV Santa Fe, it is a deal that is almost too good to be missed!

There is a Hyundai fit for everyone - from the urban Mum to the young executive or even the Manager Dad. Hyundai also has the best-looking sedans currently available in Malaysia. You’ll have to see it for yourself at a Hyundai showroom, we have and it is va-va-voom!

You’ve got 9 days left before this offer runs out, don’t forget also the current SST discounts that are also available only until 31 December 2020.

Go get Geared for Distinction and Drive a New Hyundai this holiday season.

Find out more
here
 or call Hyundai’s Customer Careline at 1-300-13-2000.


Continental To Transform Penang Plant Into Smart Factory By 2020

Continental Automotive Components Malaysia Sdn Bhd is now in the midst of expanding and transforming its plant in Penang into an advanced state-of-the-art ‘smart factory’.
The transformation will see the company complying with ‘Industry 4.0’ (the fourth industrial revolution) - the current trend of industrial digitalization which creates what has been called a “smart factory”, where cyber-physical systems will monitor physical processes, create a virtual copy of the physical world, and even make decentralized decisions.
In order to transform the plant in Penang into a smart factory, Continental is investing approximately RM31.5 million on infrastructures alone, where the warehouse space and facilities will be enhanced, and the Research & Development office will be extended to accommodate more engineers.
The plant will have one continuous shop floor that ensures more efficient people-access and process flow, with reduced production space to strengthen cost efficiency.
The optimized production layout will also enhance the manufacturing capacity and leave more space for the plant to receive more new businesses, which would translate into more job opportunities.
In this case, the R&D office is expected to see an increase of another 150 engineers by 2020 according to Luciano Oliveira, the managing director of Continental Automotive Malaysia.
Dr. Hans-Jürgen Braun, the senior vice president and head of 30 central electronic plants worldwide at Continental said, “I am very excited about the transformation of our new manufacturing facility at Penang Plant. The new facility will further enhance quality and agility supporting the market requirements which not only strengthens the base for our business growth in Malaysia.”
The expansion process, which is scheduled to be completed in the year 2020, officially began after a ground-breaking ceremony was held at the plant in Penang yesterday.
Plant transformation aside, Continental also announced the launching of its C.Drive training program yesterday, aimed at fresh engineering graduates who are keen in joining the automotive industry.
According to Bogdan Simonia, director and head of R&D for Continental Automotive Components Malaysia, the C.Drive Program is designed to engage fresh engineers and equip them with all necessary skills for Automotive Software Development.
He said that the program includes interactive class room sessions, a self-study period as well as time bound team assignments.
During these activities, they will have the opportunity to work with experts in the actual working environment and experience real projects, which will further develop their expertise.
The program offers both technical and soft skills, thus emphasizing not only on engineering topics but also on personal interaction skills that are crucial for having successful careers. The 6-month program will be available on a yearly basis.
Those who join the program are entitled to RM2,800 monthly allowance, EPF, SOCSO, and EIS contribution, dental/optical allowance, annual and compassionate leaves, as well as incentives for exemplary achievements.


Karak Landslide - Highway Shut Till Saturday, Illegal Logging To Blame?

The huge landslide that was wrought upon the Kuala Lumpur-Karak Highway during a downpour on Wednesday, November 11th was one of the worst to hit the nation within the last few years and crippled transport to between the West and East coast of Peninsular Malaysia.
The Expressway is currently undergoing cleanup and repair work while the hill that gave way is being examined and precautions put in place to ensure the low likelihood of the incident repeating. It will be closed to all traffic at KM52.4 until Saturday, writes Bernama.
Benton police cheif Supt Mohamad Mansor Mohd Nor said the reopening of roads would depend on weather conditions and the green light from slope experts. He also advised road users to be patient and plot alternative routes for now.
But what caused the landslide to begin with? Some believe it could be due to uncontrolled (and therefore illegal) logging at or close to the Lentang Recreational Forest area. After witnessing the excessive logging activities there, Puan Seri Shariffa Sabrina Syed Akil, president of Pertubuhan Perlindungan Khazanah Alam Malaysia (PEKA) had expressed concerns about it posing a danger to the nearby highway following the construction of the Tenaga Nasional Malaysia passageway from Benton, Pahang to Lenggeng, Negeri Sembilan.
However, those concerns fell unto deaf ears and authorities did not heed the letters of protest sent their way or the highlighting of the issue in the media. This led to more forest land being illegally harvested despite it being a known water catchment area.
"It is understood that the logging activities started in late October, 2013 and then the encroachers wantonly cleared more land at the Lentang Recreational Forest in the name of development," Shariffa Sabrina told Bernama.
"When we knew about this, PEKA sent an official letter to the Pahang state government on Jan 20, last year, expressing our concern over possible adverse effects of the uncontrolled logging activities."
It was only a matter of time before the ground became loose enough through the already damp and unsecured soil to cause for the Wednesday downpour to trigger the mudslide that evening. Shariffa added that the problem could grow worse if logging in Bukit Tinggi and Lentang were allowed to continue, and the next incident could have a human cost.


The Ford Mustang Mach-E EV has arrived in Malaysia

The Ford Mustang Mach-E has arrived in Malaysia and is up for grabs - well, sort of.

If you want to buy an EV but want to be different from those who have bought Teslas, BMW iXs and Porsche Taycans, why not check out the
Ford Mustang Mach-E
, which is now available in Malaysia.

It seems that Facebook user Raja Shah Redza, whose page is predominately used as a sales platform, is promoting a couple of Ford Mustang Mach-E (one in grey with the other being in maroon), pictured in what seems to be on a Malaysian showroom floor.

The American EV is probably one of the first Ford Mustang Mach-E to reach our shores, which explains why there is currently no price just yet for the
 popular American electric vehicle
. We're not quite sure which variants they are, as the fully electrified Mustang comes in a few configurations.

Although the EV carries the iconic Mustang name, in EV form at least, the Mustang is an all-electric SUV. It is available with standard (75.7 kWh) and extended-range (98.8 kWh) battery options with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations that are powered by permanent magnet motors, with a range of at least 482 km.

In extended-range all-wheel-drive configurations, the Mach-E puts out 332 hp and 565 Nm of torque, and sprints from 0 – 100 much quicker than the base Porsche Macan.

Although there are no pictures of the interior, the Ford Mustang Mach-E should be equipped with a 15.5-inch portrait infotainment screen with a simple interface which ditches complicated menus, making it easier to access features with touch, swipe and pinch controls that every smartphone owner will be comfortable using.

Using Ford’s new all-electric architecture that places batteries inside the underbody, Ford engineers and designers were able to create a vehicle that’s not only true to Mustang but also maximizes SUV space for five passengers and cargo.

Design wise, the Mustang Mach-E comes with signature Mustang elements such as its long, powerful hood, rear haunch design, aggressive headlights, and trademark tri-bar taillamps.

Getting in and starting the vehicle is a hoot, as the EV features easy and effortless “Phone As A Key” technology, which made its debut in the Ford Mustang Mach-E.

Using Bluetooth, the vehicle can detect customers’ smartphones as they approach, unlocking the Mach-E and allowing them to start driving without getting their phones out of their pockets or using a key fob.

To find out more about the imported Ford Mustang Mach-E, click
here
.


Two New Variants Of The Volkswagen Jetta Heading Our Way

Volkswagen Group Malaysia is set to add two new variants the Jetta range, which currently consists only the locally-assembled Jetta 1.4 TSI.
The two new Jetta variants to be added are the Jetta Sport and Jetta Club. This was revealed by Armin Keller, Managing Director of Volkswagen Group Malaysia, during a media event hosted by the company yesterday.
Volkswagen did not reveal much else about the two new variants other than it will be launched in May. However it is safe to expect the both variants will continue to use the 1.4 TSI and 7-speed DSG dual clutch transmission. Changes should be limited mostly to interior trim materials, exterior styling packages, with the Jetta Club to be priced lower than the Jetta Sport.


Detroit 2018: All-New Hyundai Veloster Breaks Cover, To Appear In Marvel’s Ant-Man Movie

Hyundai today unveiled the all-new Veloster, Veloster Turbo, and also the Veloster N models at the ongoing North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
Designed collaboratively by Hyundai designers in South Korea and the U.S. design center in California, the new Veloster features updated exterior and interior, powertrain enhancements, as well as new and improved infotainment and connectivity features.
On the exterior, key features include Hyundai's signature asymmetrical two-plus-one door configuration for easier rear-seat access, LED headlights with DRLs, a new grille, new air curtains and diffusers that add to aerodynamics, and 18-inch alloy wheels.
The high performance Veloster N however gets an exclusive N-design grille with dedicated front air ducts for enhanced brake cooling, as well as 19-inch alloy wheels, larger N-design rear spoiler, integrated diffuser, and a high-flow dual exhaust system.
Also available is a full darkened roof treatment for a high-contrast performance appearance and chrome exhaust tips with a single outlet for the 2.0-liter model and dual-outlets for Turbo and R-Spec models.
Inside, each trim level of the Veloster has unique colors, materials, and accents, differentiating each model from the other. The list of features offered includes:
         Heads-Up Display
         Android Auto
         Apple CarPlay
         SiriusXM Radio
         Wireless smartphone charging
         HD Radio with Blue Link LTE connectivity
         Seven-inch color LCD display
         Rear View Monitor
         “Floating” eight-inch touchscreen with navigation
         Infinity premium audio with eight speakers
As for the Veloster N, there are a few exclusive features like the N-design front cloth sport seats with performance-focused bolstering, N-design steering wheel, shift knob, N-logo door sill plates, and N-design instrument cluster.
The Interior details are further accented by an N performance blue accent theme. As engine speed approaches redline, the N-design center cluster displays a progressive sequential shift indicator, alerting the driver of an impending shift point for maximum acceleration.
As for safety, we have:
         6 airbags, ABS, EBD
         Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA)
         Front and rear-view camera
         Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
         High Beam Assist (HBA)
         Driver Attention Warning (DAW)
         Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW)
         The Rear Cross-Traffic Collison Warning (RCCW)
         Smart Cruise Control
         Vehicle Stability Management (VSM)
         ESC (Electronic Stability Control)
Under the hood, there are two petrol engine options:
Nu 2.0L 4-cylinder NA (147 hp / 179 Nm)
Gamma 1.6L turbo, direct injection ( 201 hp / 264 Nm)
While the 2.0-liter engine is coupled with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed electronically-controlled automatic transmission, the Veloster Turbo is paired with a standard six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT).
Three driver-selectable modes include Normal, Sport, and Smart, according to changing driver preferences. In addition, the Veloster Turbo model features the Active Sound Design, which enhances intake and exhaust powertrain sound character inside the cabin for a more exciting driving experience.
As for the Veloster N, power comes from a larger 2.0-litre, direct-injected turbocharged powerplant kicking out 275 hp and up to 352 of torque, mated to a close-ratio six-speed manual gearbox with rev-matching.
Another highlight is that all Veloster models come with Torque Vectoring Control (TVC). What this system does is that it utilizes the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) to allow the Veloster to improve dynamic cornering  - using wheel-speed sensors coupled with ESC algorithms to apply precise braking force to the inside front wheel during spirited cornering.
That being said, the new Veloster will begin production in March 2018 in Ulsan, Korea, with U.S. market availability in the second quarter of 2018.
The car is also all set to make its first Hollywood appearance in the upcoming Marvel blockbuster – “Ant-Man and the Wasp” later this year.


Continental Tyre Launches CNY Road Safety Campaign

Continental Tyre PJ Malaysia, in partnership with Shell Malaysia Trading, officially kicked off their Chinese New Year Road Safety Campaign 2016 today. Held at selected Shell service stations nationwide from 9
th
 January till 31
st
 January, the safety campaign is aimed at educating the general motorist on cultivating tyre safety habits and prioritise vehicle maintenance to ensure a safe trip during the Chinese New Year break.
To create this awareness, Continental will be conducting tyre safety and car engine oil checks at 15 participating Shell stations. The campaign will be conducted from 10am to 8pm at each participating Shell station on the following dates:
Date
State
Station Name
Address
15-16 Jan
Johor
Shell Taman Daya
Jalan Daya 1, 81100 JB

Kedah
Shell Jalan Pegawai AS
Jalan Pegawai, 5050 Alor Setar

Terengganu
Shell Jalan Hiliran KT
Jalan Hiliran, Pulau Kambing, 20700 KT
16-17 Jan
Selangor
Shell Bandar Utama
Persiaran Bandar Utama, 47400 PJ

Selangor
Shell Shah Alam Sec 17
Jalan 17/24 Section 17, 40000 Shah Alam
23-24 Jan
Penang
Shell Jalan Jelutong
Jelutong Road, 11600 Georgetown

Perak
Shell Jalan Kuala Kangsar
Jalan Kuala Kangsar, 30100 Ipoh

Sabah
Shell Jalan Kuhara Tawau
Kuhara Road, 91000 Tawau

Sarawak
Shell Jalan Bulatan Miri
Jalan Bulatan, 98000 Miri
30-31 Jan
Melaka
Shell Bandar Ayer Keroh
Mukim Bukit Katil, 75450 Melaka

Pahang
Shell Jln Gambut Kuantan
Jalan Gambut, 25300 Kuantan

Sabah
Shell Telipok
Pekan Telipok, 88450 Kota Kinabalu

Sarawak
Shell Jln Tun Jugah Kuching 1
Jalan Tun Jugah, 93350 Kuching
Customers who participate in Continental’s CNY Road Safety Campaign will receive a booklet from Continental, which details tyre maintenance tips and Continental premiums, as well as a RM30 voucher for a purchase of Continental tyres.
Shell on the other hand will also be giving out promotion vouchers, in which each customer will be entitled to one free petrol cash voucher with the purchase of any Shell Helix or Shell Advance product (Helix Ultra, HX7, HX5, Advance Ultra, AX7 and AX5).
In addition to that, 100 new SIRIM approved helmets will be given away for free to replace any uncertified helmets at each location. These free helmets are courtesy of the Malaysian Road Safety Department (JKJR).


Tokyo 2017: Subaru To Unveil Viziv Sedan Concept And Two STI Models

Subaru will premiere the Viziv Performance Concept at the upcoming Tokyo Motor Show 2017, in addition to two other limited run STI models of the WRX and BRZ coupe.
Viziv is a portmanteau of the words ‘Vision for Innovation’ and has been used to name Subaru's concept vehicles in the past. The Viziv Performance Concept is a sports sedan style based on the company’s “Dynamic x Solid” design language and will showcase the company’s latest driver-assist technology, centered on Subaru’s original EyeSight system.
Subaru will also unveil the Subaru WRX STI S208 which will be most powerful and exclusive WRX STI yet - limited to 450 units.
Subaru and its motorsports-linked STI subsidiary have further developed the WRX STI’s engine and suspension and added model specific aesthetic highlights to both the exterior and interior of the car. The S208 will have more power and a lower centre of gravity than the S207 model from 2015, which is based on the pre-facelifted WRX. The S208 also comes with a carbon roof.
The company will also roll out the Subaru BRZ STI Sport - with improved body rigidity and bespoke suspension tuning courtesy of the STI division. The upgrades to the BRZ are said to amplify the car’s commendable handling performance. Additionally, the STI Sport will be given some interior and exterior highlights. A limited run of just 100 units, will be sold with the 'Cool Grey Khaki' exterior colour seen below.
Both the S208 and ‘Cool Grey’ BRZ STI Sport will be sold in Japan only, via a lottery system. Interested buyers must first register their interest at their local dealers, with further details of the selection process to be announced on the day of unveiling.
Additionally, Subaru have also confirmed two other concepts, which are based on the XV SUV and Impreza Sport models. The XV Fun Adventure Concept is designed to further emphasize the tough and rugged nature of the SUV with some off-road components, while the Impreza Future Sport Concept will debut with a number of visual upgrades aimed at creating a sportier look for the vehicle.


Malaysian Petrol, Diesel Price Remains Unchanged For April 2015

For the month of April 2015, petrol prices have remained
unchanged
 from the month before.
Following the “managed float” system currently in use by the government that calculates fuel prices based on the average global crude oil prices for the month before, here’s what Malaysians will be paying at the pump beginning April 1
st
, 2015:
RON 95: RM1.95 per litre
RON 97: RM2.25 per litre
Diesel: RM1.95 per litre
Keep in mind that April 1
st
, 2015 also marks the implementation of the Goods & Services Tax (GST). As announced by the Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Ministry, RON 95 petrol and diesel are
exempted
from GST. However, RON 97 petrol is
NOT exempted
 from GST of which the 6% charge is included in the RM2.25 per litre price.
With the new prices, RON 95, RON 97 and diesel see its prices remain unchanged from the month of March 2015. These prices are effective 12:01 am on April 1
st.


Perodua Sets Its Eyes On India, May Establish Facility Locally

News has emerged that Perodua may establish a facility in India to sell its products locally and as a base to target other markets.
According to a report by
The Hindu Business Line Indian daily
, Perodua is among the latest car manufacturers to show strong interest in tapping into the Indian market.
It was reported that a senior management team from Perodua, which will be part of a large Malaysian delegation, will be at the 8th International Engineering Sourcing Show (IESS) in Chennai, India on the 15th and 16th of March to explore the possible opportunities for joint ventures and partnerships.
According to the daily, two Perodua models will also be on display at the event.
“Though these are early days, Perodua feels India is a big market. Whether the domestic market excites them or using India as a global base for exports is something that will be determined later,” said said Sooraj Dhawan of Falcon Capital Advisors, which is advising the Malaysia Automotive Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii).
Besides Malaysia, Perodua vehicles are currently being sold in markets like Indonesia, Singapore, Brunei, Fiji, Nepal, Mauritius, and also Sri Lanka.
Meanwhile, Proton officials will also be part of the Malaysian delegation in India, and a couple of Proton models are also likely to be displayed at the IESS event.


Over RM994 Million In Compensation For Toll Operators In 2019 – MoF

In a statement released by the Ministry of Finance (MoF) Malaysia, Lim Guan Eng said that the Cabinet has decided to freeze all toll rate hikes for all vehicle classes on 21 highways across the country that are eligible for an increase in 2019.
This is an additional increase in coverage, as, during the Budget 2019 announcement, the ministry only proposed to freeze toll rate hikes for
 inter-city highways
. During the November tabling of the national budget, the allotment for this exercise was RM700 million.
"The toll hike freeze for all vehicle classes on 21 highways will incur the government an estimated RM972.75 million in compensation payments to the relevant highway toll concessionaires for 2019," said Lim.
Another RM21.68 million will be used to cover abolishment of toll for motorcyclists travelling through the First and Second Penang Bridges and Johor Second Link, as well as freeze of toll hikes for buses on eight separate highways.
The toll hike freeze is part of the Government’s effort in fulfilling its General Election manifesto of abolishing toll highways in Malaysia.
Earlier in August, the Works Ministry stated that a total abolishment of toll highways in Malaysia will cost the Government a
stratospheric sum of RM400 billion
. The Government has since deferred the abolishment until the country’s economy and fiscal position improves.


Porsche Rebuilds A Carrera GT To Factory Spec

If you want to talk about iconic Porsche models, there's no passing up on the Carrera GT. With its Formula 1-derived V10 screamer of an engine, it is still one of the most sought after Porsche models for collectors, being entirely unique to the rest of the Porsche line-up. For one very wealthy collector, Porsche was willing to restore their Carrera GT to fresh-out-of-factory spec, and you can imagine the amount of effort that goes into a project like this.
Porsche being Porsche, the Carrera GT was stripped down to its bare chassis. Components that couldn't be refurbished or repaired were entirely replaced, on top of a full powertrain and chassis overhaul. While all the components were out of the car, the owner suffered from a massive case of might-as-well and decided to repaint the entire car in Oak Green Metallic - a colour never originally available with the Carrera GT.
The wheels are also a talking piece, finished with gold paint and actual silver. The silver element was used in the rim lip in order to achieve a proper chrome finish, with a layer of lacquer atop to stop the silver from oxidizing. The colour scheme complements the blue and silver centrelock caps nicely, neither being too eye-catching for the subtle paintwork of the body, nor too plain and obscure.
As is the case with most modern supercars, there are quite a number of carbon fibre trim pieces and components. Over time, the lacquer of the carbon fibre starts to yellow and fade, which results in some rather tricky restoration. The original lacquer needs to be sanded down and removed without compromising the actual carbon fibre weave, and new lacquer needs to be applied atop. The slightest miss-step can result in ruining the whole component, while the surface also needs to be ultra smooth.
The owner took delivery of their car at the Porsche Experience Centre in Atlanta, which seems to be the home of many great Porsches, new and old. The car is a testament to the abilities of Porsche Classic Factory Restorations in Stuttgart, in taking something old and tired and making it whole again. For those who have restored a classic car in their time, there's no better feeling than seeing a car completed and as good as the day it left the factory floor.


Left-Field Heroes: The Toyota RAV4 And Mazda CX-30

Toyota RAV4 and the Mazda CX-30 are fighting in their own hotly contested segments, so let’s see how these two impeccable choices fair on paper.

SUVs are possibly the greatest disruptors to the market since the introduction of emissions regulations. This class of vehicles has evolved from being something purely utilitarian, to blending lifestyle and utility and eventually becoming the pure lifestyle items that we see today. They have started to diversify in a range of shapes and sizes, and become increasingly passenger-car-like in the way they drive.

It’s this very nature that has threatened and cannibalized the sales of more conventional sedan models that consumers would look to as they moved up through class and social status. It’s not hard to understand why, especially in a country like Malaysia; an SUV has better ride height for visibility, better ground clearance to traverse rougher roads, a more comfortable ride to soak up the potholes, superior interior space and practicality – all without increasing the overall footprint of the car.

The two most recent additions to the market are both interesting, somewhat left-field contenders in this market dominated by Honda and Proton. We’ll start with the Mazda CX-30 which is a relatively compact SUV, or crossover if you will. It goes against the Toyota C-HR and Honda HR-V, and it has the largest engine of the bunch with a 2.0-litre SKYACTIV-G mill, as well as a 1.8-litre SKYACTIV-D diesel variant which is the most expensive of the bunch.

It’s easily the most expensive in its class too, with prices starting at RM 143,059 and going up to as high as RM 172,943 if you opt for the diesel model. The Toyota C-HR in comparison has a singular variant that goes for RM 144,435, while the Honda HR-V is easily the cheapest with pricing starting at RM 104,000 and peaking at RM 118,581. Both the HR-V and the C-HR come with 1.8-litre petrol engines mated with CVT-type automatic transmissions, while all variants of the CX-30 send power to the front wheels through a six-speed conventional automatic transmission.

But you can never judge a Mazda purely on its price, as we have come to find in recent years. Mazda has shown that they are content fighting on a premium front, and the CX-30 is no different. Size wise, the CX-30 is a little larger than the CX-3 yet smaller than the CX-5, and best of all is the design of the interior follows that of the most current Mazda 3 with a more integrated infotainment system and plenty of high-quality materials.

In terms of space and comfort, the CX-30 isn’t going to take home any prizes – but it does have enjoyable driving dynamics that give you the confidence you need, more so with a car that has a relatively high centre of gravity. It also comes from a line of cars that redefined what interior and exterior design for vehicles should be, ignoring convention and providing an experience that punches far above its belt. If that isn’t a good justification, then we don’t know what is.

In a similar vein to the Mazda CX-30, we have the Toyota RAV4. Following a hiatus of many, many years from our market, we finally see the mid-sized SUV return to the fold after numerous generations of improvement and packing a lot of features. Unfortunately, there is a relatively high price to pay for it, with the entry level 2.0-litre unit running you RM 196,436, and the top-spec 2.5-litre unit pushing RM 215,664 – well above even the Mazda CX-5.

That being said, there are numerous ways that you can justify the price of the RAV4. Mechanically it has the most advanced platform of the bunch, with a double-wishbone rear setup that affords amazing comfort without compromising handling – basically the TNGA that underpins the Corolla Altis, Camry, and C-HR. The engine and gearbox package for both variants is incredibly efficient and provides flexibility in economy and performance.

If that doesn’t speak to you, then the features should. It comes ready with Apple Carplay and Android Auto, as well as a wireless charger and even a Vehicle Telematics System that provides information to your phone via a mobile app. Safety systems are best in class, with Pre-Collision, Lane Departure Alert, Lane Tracing Assist, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and so on and so forth. You’re definitely not going to be buying an under-specced car.

Both of these options are regarded as left field because of their pricing, but they also elevate the segment in many ways. Many of the features you find and the level of sophistication are equivalent to that of a higher class of car, and you would expect to pay more for these products on a value basis. The unfortunate issue is that they are still compared within segments that have long been established and it can be hard to view them as individual products, independent of their class rivals.


BMW iX 2022, iX3 2022 Kini Lebih Murah – Tanpa Cukai Import & Duti Eksais Kenderaan Elektrik

Satu majlis penandatangan Memorandum Persefahaman (MOU) antara BMW Group Malaysia bersama Pusat Perubahan Iklim dan Teknologi Hijau Malaysia (MGTC), TNB dan Siemens Malaysia untuk melanjutkan usaha pembangunan ekosistem dan infrastruktur bagi Kenderaan Elektrik di Malaysia telah diadakan di NEXTGen Malaysia anjuran BMW Group Malaysia baru-baru ini.

Acara tersebut telah dirasmikan oleh Menteri Perdagangan Antarabangsa dan Industri, Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali yang mendapati bahawa masih terdapat ruang yang luas untuk pengembangan pasaran EV yang lebih baik terutamanya di rantau ASEAN.

Bagi menyokong hasrat tersebut, beberapa insentif telah diumumkan dalam Bajet 2022 termasuk
pengecualian cukai untuk pengimportan dan pemasangan EV
, pengecualian cukai jalan dan rebat cukai untuk pemasangan pengecas rumah EV.

Susulan itu, harga baharu bagi dua model kenderaan elektrik BMW,
BMW iX
 dan
BMW iX3
 juga telah dikeluarkan susulan langkah kerajaan menghapuskan cukai import dan duti eksais untuk kenderaan elektrik (EV) bermula tahun ini. Yang pastinya, ia jauh lebih murah dengan potongan harga sebanyak RM65k!

BMW iX3 yang telah dilancarkan di Malaysia pada Oktober tahun lalu telah mencatatkan penurunan sehingga RM11k. Model ini ditawarkan dalam dua varian M Sport, iaitu Inspiring serta Impressive yang kini dijual pada harga RM307,106 (Inspiring) dan RM325,106 (Impressive) bersama dua tahun waranti tanpa had perbatuan.

Bagi mereka yang mahukan ketenangan minda dengan jaminan tambahan serta pakej servis lima tahun tanpa had batuan, BMW iX3 ini boleh didapati pada harga RM322,800 (Inspiring) dan RM340,800 (Impressive).

Tetapi bagi pelanggan yang mahu menambah Power Package yang memberikan BMW i Wallbox 22 kW serta BMW i Standard Charging Cable (tidak termasuk kos pemasangan), SUV elektrik ini akan dijual pada harga RM327,800 bagi iX3 Inspiring dan RM345,800 untuk iX3 Impressive termasuk jaminan bateri selama lapan tahun diberikan secara standard.

Sementara itu, BMW iX yang dilancarkan Ogos tahun lalu turut diperkenalkan pada harga baru, iaitu RM361,430 untuk varian xDrive40 dan RM407,430 untuk varian xDrive40 Sport, tanpa insurans. Model ini mencatatkan penurunan harga yang besar, masing-masing di sekitar RM58k dan RM65k. Kedua-dua harga baharu ini juga hadir dengan jaminan selama dua tahun.

Untuk jaminan tambahan serta pakej servis selama lima tahun tanpa had perbatuan, harga SUV elektrik ini akan menjadi RM379,800 bagi varian xDrive40 dan RM425,800 untuk varian xDrive40 Sport. Power Package juga ditawarkan bagi kedua-dua varian model ini di mana pelanggan perlu membuat penambahan bayaran sebanyak RM4,600.

Di samping itu, BMW turut memperkenalkan jentera
BMW i4 eDrive40
yang dinanti-nantikan ramai. Jentera Gran Coupé elektrik ini telah dirungkaikan secara rasmi di NEXTGen Malaysia baru-baru ini. Model ini mampu menjana output maksimum berjumlah 250 kW/340 kk dan puncak tork sebanyak 430 Nm.

Bateri yang terletak di lantai jentera tersebut dan mempunyai kapasiti kasar berjumlah 83.9 kWj (80.7 kWj bersih) yang memberikan jarak operasi perjalanan sehingga 590 kilometer (WLTP) dapat dinikmati oleh pemandu. BMW i4 ini juga mampu mencapai kelajuan sehingga 190km/j dan hanya memerlukan 5.7 saat untuk mencapai kelajuan 100km/j. Walau bagaimanapun, harga bagi jentera elektrik garang milik BMW ini masih lagi tidak diumumkan.

Memorandum yang ditandatangan ketika acara NEXTGen ini merupakan tindakan susulan terhadap dakwaan BMW untuk membina lebih banyak pusat pengecasan EV di seluruh negara termasuk di RnR sempadan negeri, pusat membeli belah dan di kawasan pengedar kereta.

Acara NEXTGen Malaysia akan berterusan sehingga Sabtu, 15 Januari 2022 di NEXTGen Pavillion @ Mandarin Oriental KL. Acara ini akan menyajikan ucaptama dan panel perbincangan yang menarik, menampilkan para peneraju dan pakar dalam bidang kelestarian merentasi pelbagai industri.


Lexus Malaysia introduces updated 2016 Lexus GS, adds turbo 2.0-litre variant to range

When the Lexus GS was unveiled just a few years ago, it was a big step for Lexus as a brand. Prior to this, Lexus had taken very conservative steps in terms of design and styling evolution, and the GS was a rather large move towards sportiness and aggressive design. The models that followed were reflective of this, adopting the "spindle grill" and taking it to even greater heights.
The updated model has aggressive styling- both inside and out. It's closer in nature to the LF-Gh concept car from the 2011 New York International Auto Show, and more in line with the IS, NX, and RX models. But the primary focus of this update is the introduction of the new engine, and some additional features as well. With the exception of the GS 200t Premium, Lexus is providing:
Triple-L LED Headlamps
Adaptive Variable Suspension
Customizable drive mode settings
Genuine double-stitched Leather Steering Wheel Centre Pad
Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Traffic Alert
as standard across the GS model range. Also coming with this update are the  F SPORT meters, specific to the F SPORT variants: these classy LED displays evoke the styling of the LF A and lend a particularly aggressive look to the Lexus GS. Other models with the standard instrument cluster will still have backlighting that changes depending on driving mode.
One of the limitations of the Lexus lineup were their strict commitment to naturally-aspirated engines, especially when the Germans had quickly and effortlessly transitioned to turbocharged engines. Not only were these naturally-aspirated engines uncompetitive on the performance front, but they were also not nearly as efficient as what the Germans had on offer. But a lot of this changed with the launch of the NX 200t, and soon a number of Lexus models had adopted it's turbocharged 2.0-litre motor.
 The GS is the next in line to recieve it, and specifications for the model range are now as follows:
GS 200t - 241 hp at 5,800 rpm, 350 Nm of torque from 1,650 rpm to 4,400 rpm
GS 350  - 312 hp at 6,400 rpm, 378 Nm of torque
GS 300h - 220 hp, 300 Nm of torque
All models recieve the 8-speed automatic transmission, except the GS 300h which gets the E-CVT.
Finally, we come to pricing. There have been some adjustments to overall pricing as a result of our depreciating currency and such, as well as inflation over the 4 years since the GS was first launched in Malaysia. On the whole, these models are now more expensive- but to be fair, they are packing some extra kit. The new prices are:
GS 200t PREMIUM - RM 439,200.00
GS 200t LUXURY - RM 484,100.00
GS 200t F SPORT - RM 496,100.00
GS 350 LUXURY - RM 543,400.00
GS 350 F SPORT - RM 562,610.00
GS 300h - RM 631,700.00
It will be interesting to see how the updated GS fares against current offerings, and hopefully as our currency recovers we may see the prices become more competitive in the future.


2021 (XU80) Toyota Harrier Launched In Malaysia - From RM249k

UMW Toyota Motor has officially launched the all-new 2021 Toyota Harrier to the Malaysian market. This fourth-generation model (codenamed XU80) lands on Malaysian shores just under a year after its global debut and replaces the
XU60-generation Harrier
, which was for the first time, was made available here officially in 2018.

The officially sold Toyota Harrier comes with a full factory five-year unlimited mileage warranty for absolute peace of mind with comprehensive after-sales support at all authorized Toyota service centres nationwide with ready availability of genuine parts.

The 2021
Harrier is larger and lower than its predecessor
 – it highlights more angular and chiselled bodylines; overall the body exudes a sportier presence, and like most premium SUVs these days, features a sloping roofline for a Coupe-like silhouette.

Toyota designers envisioned the concept of “Dignified Elegance” for the Harrier, which extends throughout the exterior and especially the interior, not only in terms of styling but with the use of high quality materials and finish, to define both individuality and quality in the new SUV.

One area that Toyota has paid special attention is reducing Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH), resulting in the use of highly efficient sound-absorbing windows for a quitter cabin space.

The all-new Harrier is powered by Toyota’s latest (M20A-FKS) Dynamic Force 2.0-litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine that outputs 173PS and 203Nm torque between 4,400rpm and 4,900rpm. The Harrier offers the
Dynamic Force
 engine line-up (which the
Camry
 notably didn’t get because of costs implications) which offers greater efficiency and power courtesy of the most advanced version of Toyota’s (dual) variable valve timing system.

Power is routed to the front wheels through a Toyota Direct-Shift CVT-type transmission which offers three drive modes – Eco, Normal and Sport.

The 2021 Harrier is based on
Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) GA-K platform
, the Harrier is engineered with a highly rigid body structure with a lower center of gravity. The width and wheelbase that is up by 20 mm and 30 mm respectively over its predecessor, while the height has been reduced by 30 mm.

As for safety, the Harrier is fitted with 7-airbags and Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) technologies, which include Pre-Crash System (PCS), Lane Departure Alert (LDA), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) and Auto High-Beam Systems (AHS).

Notable features on the inside include Fixed Panoramic Sunroof is equipped with electro-chromatic glass that can be dimmed when required, 12-way power adjustment, vehicle Head-Up Display (HUD); wireless charging pad; dual-zone Air Conditioning system, powered hands-free rear boot and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple Carplay connectivity.

Fully imported from Toyota’s Takaoka factory in Japan, the sole Harrier 2.0 Luxury variant priced at
RM249,706.50
, (OTR, excluding road tax and insurance) and comes with a choice of five colours: Steel Blonde Metallic, Slate Grey Metallic, Precious Black, Dark Blue Metallic; and the signature White Pearl Crystal Shine.

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Something Old, Something New: The Safest Cars You Can Buy For RM 100,000 And Under

We live in one of the most dangerous countries in the world – when it comes to road fatalities, that is. Despite the best efforts of JPJ and MIROS, Malaysians are still very much prone to having accidents – some ending in tragedy. In 2018, there were 548,598 accidents reported, of which 6,284 were road fatalities.

Now, even if you think you’re a good, safe driver – and some of you are – you can’t account for everybody on the road. The driver who nods off at the wheel, the one distracted by an argument with their partner, or the lorry that has lost braking power heading down a slope – these are all potential hazards that even the best drivers cannot account for.

With that in mind, there’s a growing interest in getting something a little safer, for you and for your family. When you think safety in cars, you immediately think of Volvo – but unfortunately their latest and greatest models are still priced a little high for most Malaysians to reasonably be able to afford. That being said, let’s look at more budget friendly options that rank highly in terms of safety.

The RM 80,000 to RM 100,000 bracket

Having a budget of RM 100,000 is a pretty good start, as it opens you up to a variety of second-hand vehicles. On our website alone,
we have 2014 and 2015 V40 T5s available
 for a hair under RM 90,000. There’s even a 2014 Volvo XC90 that is going for RM 88,999, should you need the extra space and ride height.

But if you’re restricting yourself to just new cars, then you can’t really go wrong with the typical Japanese duo of the Toyota Vios and the Honda City. Both have exemplary safety ratings as per NCAP testing, but the Vios just manages to best the City with seven airbags instead of six, as well as the addition of blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert systems.

The RM 55,000 to RM 75,000 bracket

Coming down, the Volvo models available increases dramatically in this price bracket. 2012 to 2014 XC60s are aplenty here with age and specification determining the used car value. There are even S60s of the same vintage if you would prefer a sedan (
even a rare 3.0-litre T6
) as well as a couple of V60 wagons if you’re all about that wagon life.

When it comes to a new car in this price range, however, things are a little tricky. This bracket sits between the low and high end of the market – meaning you can really only pick high end versions of cheaper cars, or base model variants of more expensive cars. If safety is your main concern, it goes without saying that a top spec Perodua Myvi 1.5 AV is your best choice, as it comes loaded with features including the much-raved-about Advanced Safety Assist system that offers warnings and can automatically brake to mitigate or avoid damage in a collision.

The Anything-under-RM 50,000 bracket

At the budget-conscious end of the range among our Volvo listings is a 2003 XC90 2.9 T6 – but you may want to reconsider this option; despite it being built like a tank, after 10 years of age airbags are no longer reliable and may need replacement. The newest Volvo in this bracket is a 2012 Volvo V60 T4 that comes in at RM 36,500, but there are a
number of two-generations-old S40, S60, and S80 sedan models
. Again, while they are incredibly safe from a structural perspective, they may need numerous safety items re-inspected or replaced.

But even if you were to go with a new car, you need not fret as Perodua recently facelifted their Bezza to add a whole host of features. The top spec AV model is right at the bleeding edge of this budget range as it’s priced at RM 47,790, but it also comes with the ASA 2.0 system which has all the features found in the Myvi’s ASA, but also includes pedestrian detection. Either way, it’s one of the safest new cars you can buy for the money.


2020 Audi RS6 Avant Now In Malaysia - Wonder Wagon Returns Angry

Audi’s fourth-generation (C8) 2020 RS6 Avant has arrived in Malaysia, which makes its local availability fall to about a full year since the car made its international premiere in August 2019. They’ve kept the formula, but have added so much more sex appeal.

The 2020 Audi RS6 is simple enough to explain: take a rather plain A6 Avant and endow it with supercar-levels of performance while retaining its SUV-slaying practicality. Job done. With 565-litres of boot space and a crazy 1,680-litres with the seats folded, this car honours its core values well.

Until now, the RS6 had always been a car that leaned more toward function than form, but with this C8, Audi have loosened their tight collar and allowed their designers to realise one of the best looking wagons to ever exist. That alone should be cause for celebration.

Available now from RM976,309
, this newest 2020 RS6 wears some very broad shoulders, significantly wider than the base car. Within those wheel arches are a set of 22-inch alloys wearing 285/30 tyres. It also sits about 20mm lower than the standard A6 Avant, but is also able to lower itself by an extra 10mm for extra high speed stability. Neat.

At its heart is a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged petrol V8 that’s able to produce 600hp and 800Nm, that latter figure accessible from as low as 2,100rpm. The car also receives some extra grunt from a 48V electric motor (or more accurately called belt starter-generator) that’s able to output 12kW, technically classifying the RS6 Avant as mild hybrid. Drive is sent through an 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission.

Efficiencies aside, this car is about pure muscle. It would still need to prove itself worthy of that very aggressive exterior, of course. To that end, Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive ensures epic levels of grip, able to launch itself from a standstill to 100km/h in just 3.6 seconds. Keeping your right foot buried means the 0-200km/h sprint can be done in 12 seconds - no mean feat considering it weighs just over 2 tonnes.

In this Malaysian-spec, the speed limiter cuts in at 280km/h, helpful for sailing past some Volvos next year. With the limiter removed, though, the car is claimed to reach its true top speed of 305km/h, but for that you’d need to pay extra for the Dynamic Package Plus.

Speaking of options, examples sold locally are already equipped with niceties such as the HD Matrix LED headlights with Audi’s laser lights, an RS Sports Exhaust system, RS Sports Suspension with Dynamic Ride Control, and the somewhat contentious progressive-rate steering system.

Inside, the RS6 features a dark grey motif that blends anthracite accents and aluminium flourishes. Naturally, there are plenty of ‘RS’ logos about the place. The heated, ventilated, and electrically adjustable front seats are specific to Audi Sport but features Valcona leather upholstery and a very nice honeycomb pattern stitch work.

The touch-activated MMI infotainment system is Audi’s newest and comes with Navigation Plus - which also powers the Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster - as well as quad-zone climate control. Unfortunately, the RS6 misses out on the premium Bang & Olufsen sound system (even on a car pushing on RM1 million, really?) which does come as standard on its sister model, the 2020 RS7 Sportback.

Luckily, what is identical across both models is the list of safety kit included, which does feature Audi Pre Sense for both the front and rear with emergency braking, Lane Change Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Park Assist, and a 360-degree camera system.


KenTrade Trading Challenge Tours Malaysia With Volkswagen Beetle Grand Prize

Volkswagen
 Malaysia, in collaboration with Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad and Bursa Malaysia Berhad, is for the second year, running the KenTrade Trading Challenge by Kenanga.

The 20-footer KenTrade Challenge has been rolled out and will be making its way around the Klang Valley with the Challenge Grand prize for all to see: a
Volkswagen Beetle
 1.2 TSI.

The Challenge’s mission is to create awareness and educate Malaysians on shares trading and the equities market. The truck has with it some fun activities to entertain and engage visitors and participants, such as a selfie Instagram and spin-the-wheel contests.

Visitors will also have a chance to experience the Volkswagen Beetle up close. Upon registration, participants in the KenTrade Trading Challenge will receive a mystery gift.

The KenTrade Trading Challenge will be running from 1
st
 to 31
st
 October 2015 so keep an eye out for the 20-footer truck carrying the bright Tornado Red Volkswagen Beetle 1.2 TSI as it tours the streets of the Klang Valley, Malacca, Negeri Sembilan, Penang, and Perak.

To find out the exact locations that the truck will be visiting, you can follow the Kenanga Group on Facebook and those who wish to register online can do so at
www.kentrade.com.my
.


Volkswagen Passat (B8) Spotted In Malaysia

While the connected masses of the country canvas the many ‘Poke-Spots’ around town, we were lucky enough to be tipped off with a quick shot of the much anticipated all-new Volkswagen Passat (B8) jostling about town.
Perhaps it’s less special than catching a Bulbasaur, but, the executive sedan did feature a local trade plates (from the state of Pahang) this time around.
Volkswagen Group Malaysia teased early last year that the car would be
made available
 by end-2015, however, the news was followed by silence until April 2016, when they
announced
 the launch within the year was imminent.
The pictures aren't very clear, but it does appear the car wears a three digit badge on the bootlid - leading us to believe that it follows Volkwagen's new engine naming nomenclature.
For the Chinese market, traditional badging which refers to the engine displacement (such as 2.0 TSi) has been replaced with a new format that's based on the numeric value of the engine torque in Nm. The Volkswagen Passat which is sold as the long-wheelbase Magotan model in China, wears the badge 330 TSI - representative of 330Nm of torque supplied from a 1.8-litre turbocharged engine.
The flashy wheels decorating the flanks also suggests the car wears 18-inch ‘Dartford’ alloys - the dead giveaway being those chunky, concave rim-spokes.


Big In Japan - By Alex Yoong

I’ve just got back to KL from a week spent in Japan racing in the
Audi

R8

LMS
 Cup. It’s good to be home although the joy of sleeping in my own bed is slightly diminished by the haze. I had developed a cough over the last month or so and the clean air in Japan allowed me to get on top of that. Hopefully, by staying indoors more I can prevent that pesky cough from coming back.
Japan and especially Tokyo always evoke strong feelings in me when I go back. I raced there in Formula Nippon in 2000/2001 before making the break into F1 and they were hard years. Trying to eke out a living there when you’re flat broke was very depressing. However I always loved the culture and energy of Japan – So many strange and wonderful things to do and experience there, although it wasn’t possible for me to do those things back then.
These days I definitely enjoy it a lot more and it was so good to see and socialize with some of my old friends. This time I could at least treat them dinner.
It was also good to see the fans out in Fuji. They are very knowledgeable about racing and so many of them had models of old Formula Nippon and F1 cars that I had driven. I must have signed about 50 of them. Not a big number when you consider how many models some of the World Endurance Championship boys would have had to sign but I was still surprised and pleased for the attention.
We were racing in the Audi cup as a support race for the World Endurance Championship and the show was a good one with
Porsche
 winning from Audi. The sports car world is definitely on the up and I think we are entering a Golden Era. Perhaps one that may even give Formula 1 a challenge.
As for me, the weekend was good and bad. I managed to secure pole for race one and then convert that to a win. However I did not qualify well for race two (tenth) – A sign of the growing competiveness of the series. That meant it was very hard for me to make progress in race two and in my desire to get to the front, I had contact with a teammate. Unfortunately that resulted in a broken front suspension for me and I was out of the race.
The result of that sloppy race is that I now go into the remaining two races in Shanghai in three weeks tied for first in the Championship with Franky Cheng, a good friend and very quick driver. If it’s like last year, I can guarantee fire works.

Rounds 10 and 11 Race Highlights
#audir8cks Watch the highlights from the Cup's dramatic weekend at Fuji International Speedway in Japan!
Posted by
Audi R8 LMS Cup
 on Sunday, October 11, 2015


40 Years Of Mitsubishi Pick-Up Trucks – It Was Once Called The Forte!

Forty years ago, the arcade game Space Invaders made its debut, Superman hit the cinemas, and in the less glamourous, traders section of the car world, the first Mitsubishi pick-up truck reached Japanese showrooms in September 1978.
This footnote in history shouldn’t mean much, except that the Part-time 4WD system used by the workhorse truck put in motion a series of events that lead to the development of various Mitsubishi 4WD systems that dominated the World Rally Championship stage and the Dakar Rally.
Here’s a look at Mitsubishi’s five generations of unpretentious, dependable pick-up trucks.
1st Generation - 1978
The progenitor of today’s Triton was first sold as the Forte in Japan and L200 elsewhere. In the USA, it was known simply as the Mitsubishi Truck. The model was made in two locations – Ohe in Japan and Laem Chabang in Thailand.
Unlike today’s dual purpose lifestyle image Triton, the first L200 was designed purely as a workhorse. As such, it was only available with a single cab body.
Depending on markets, the choice of engines included petrol engines ranging from 1.6-litre, 2.0-litre, to 2.6-litre. A 2.3-litre diesel was also available.
By 1980, Part-time 4WD model was added to the range. That itself was nothing special, except that Mitsubishi had one advantage over its peers.
Prior to building the L200, Mitsubishi Motors already had decades of experience assembling the American Willys Jeep and built several variants of the Jeep under the Mitsubishi brand.
The experience had taught Mitsubishi Motors enough know-how in 4WD systems to allow them to design a quiet operation 4WD transfer case, which not only delivered a more comfortable ride, but also allowed for higher speed driving.
Later, the facelift models had rectangular headlamps.
Approximately 657,000 units were produced.
Fun fact: the first L200 was also sold in the US as the Dodge Ram and Chrysler-Mitsubishi D-50. Between the ‘70s and ‘80s, Chrysler owned a 15 percent stake in Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and several Mitsubishi models were sold in the US not only as a Chrysler, but also under other Chrysler-owned brands like Plymouth and Dodge.
2nd Generation

– 1986
The Forte name was dropped in Japan and the truck was now known in Japan as the Strada. The Triton name also made its debut, but only for models sold in Australia. Other export markets continued to use the L200 name.
Different body style options were also offered, allowing customers to choose either a Single Cab, Club Cab, or Double-Cab body.
Engine sizes have been increased, now offering 2.0-litre and 2.6-litre petrol, alongside a 2.5-litre diesel.
By now, Mitsubishi had already established itself as a household name in 4WDs. It’s an Asian equivalent to Land Rover, except that it came with Japanese-level reliability and durability.
Experience and know-how gained from the first generation L200 had allowed Mitsubishi to expand into building the multiple-time Dakar Rally winning Pajero.
Approximately 1,146,000 units of the second generation L200 were produced.
3rd Generation – 1995
This generation marked a departure from the earlier workhorse, trader-use only truck image, and was marketed to urbanites by Mitsubishi Motors as an alternative to a passenger car.
In Malaysia, this particular model was best known as the L200 Storm. The ‘Storm’ suffix was never an official name from Mitsubishi Motors but the then distributor USF-Hicom slapped Storm stickers onto the car anyway. The signature two-tone colour also set it apart as a stylish truck.
Power came from a 2.5-litre turbo diesel and Easy Select 4WD made its debut, so no more getting down from the vehicle to lock the hub caps before engaging 4WD.
It also had the honour of being the first pick-up truck to be sold in Malaysia with an automatic transmission – a unique feature that propelled it to the top of Malaysia’s pick-up truck sales, at least until Toyota caught up with its Hilux (Vigo generation model).
By now, the demand for pick-up trucks in Japan have almost disappeared, as traders and blue collar workers shifted to smaller vans and wagons that were better suited to Japanese driving environments. Production at the Ohe plant was transferred to Thailand’s Laem Chabang, which had become Mitsubishi Motor’s largest plant worldwide.
The ‘90s was also the period when the Asian economic crisis hit hard and as such, total sales was slightly lower than its predecessor, at 1,046,000 units.
4th Generation – 2005
Best known among locals as the ‘Strom Trooper’ truck, this model also marked a change in the model’s name for our market, switching from L200 (Storm) to Triton.
The model also marked a new beginning for the Mitsubishi Motors brand in Malaysia as it was the first core model to be launched by the newly formed Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM), in 2006.
As the brand had now been placed under the care of a subsidiary of Mitsubishi Corporation, customers benefitted from a better ownership experience and there was a marked improvement in the standard of services delivered by dealers, as proven by the brand’s recent No.1 position at the latest
JD Power After-Sales Satisfaction
 survey.
Highlights of the Triton included class-leading interior roominess and ride quality. The signature ‘J-line’ curve at the rear section of the cabin allowed the rear seats to be angled better to deliver a more passenger car-like ride quality. A strong RISE body, dual airbags and ABS, raised its level of safety to be on par with passenger cars.
The turbo diesel engine is now upgraded with commonrail direct injection technology. The 2.5-litre variant made 138 PS and it was at that time the most powerful pick-up truck on sale in Malaysia. Later, the 160 hp/347 Nm 3.2-litre model raised the benchmark even higher.
Later models were upgraded with variable geometry turbine turbocharger (VGT), a first in the segment.
Sold in 150 countries, Mitsubishi sold 1,423,000 units of the ‘Strom Trooper’ Triton.
5th Generation – 2014
The current generation Triton, this model built upon the previous model’s class-leading ride comfort and raised the bar even higher by offering features that are not available even on passenger cars from the same price range.
It was the first pick-up truck in Malaysia to be offered with engine push start button, smart keyless entry, automatic bi-xenon HID headlamps with integrated LED daytime running lights, tilt and telescopic steering, and paddle shifters for the 5-speed automatic transmission.
Later, the model was also offered with a lightweight and quiet operation
aluminium MIVEC
 commonrail turbo diesel engine – a first for a pick-up truck, and at 181 hp/430 Nm, it’s still the most powerful in the sub-2.5-litre pick-up truck segment.
Over in Borneo, the local 4x4 community will remember the Triton as the near-stock condition truck that
conquered the Borneo Safari
 using only basic off-road driving equipment.
6th Generation – 2019
An all-new Triton is expected to make its world premiere at November’s Thailand International Motor Expo in Bangkok.
A
sole teaser image
 released by Mitsubishi Motors suggests that the all-new model will feature a new face that mirrors that used in the seven-seater Pajero Sport.
The current, outgoing generation Triton was launched in Thailand in November 2014. Exports started in February 2015 and it was launched in Malaysia in May 2015. We expect the all-new model to follow a similar time frame.


Ssangyong to unveil Tivoli XLV and SIV 2 Hybrid concept in Geneva

Ssangyong
 has announced that it will be unveiling the production version of the XLV Air Concept, called the Tivoli XLV at the Geneva International Motor Show next month.
The XLV is basically a longer-bodied Tivoli which offers more loading capacity than the latter, by about 300-litres. While the XLV comes with a wheelbase length of 2600mm (similar to the base Tivoli), the vehicle has been stretched by 235mm from the C-pillar back, providing more cabin space than the regular model.
As much as the design is concerned, the concept will look almost exactly the same as the regular Tivoli, with only minor styling differences at the rear.
According to Ssangyong, the Tivoli XLV was designed to offer a multi-role, multi-function solution to a wide range of customers, and that it promises to provide the versatility needed to meet a wide range of individual lifestyles.
Powering the SUV will be a choice of either a Euro 6 compliant 1.6-litre petrol or a 1.6-litre diesel engine, matched with the option of a 6-speed manual transmission or 6-speed Aisin automatic, two-wheel drive or four wheel drive.
The Tivoli XLV aside, the brand is also set to showcase another concept in Geneva. Code named SIV-2, the “mid-sized premium SUV” concept was teased via a set of design sketches that were released recently.
Ssangyong said that the concept, which is the brand’s second iteration of the SIV-1 concept that was revealed in 2013, will sit above the Tivoli crossover. The company also announced that the SUV is powered by a mild-hybrid powertrain, comprising a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, an electric motor, and a lithium-ion battery.
Expected to enter production in 2018, the SIV-2 concept is said to be built on a chassis that can be further developed to accommodate alternative powertrains, according to Ssangyong. What this means is that it can be made into an electric vehicle, or even a plug-in hybrid at the manufacturer’s will.
Interested in purchasing a Ssangyong? Find one now at
 Carlist.my


Watch Bryce Menzies Set The World Record Furthest Off-Road Truck Jump

As the four tyres of Bryce Menzies' Pro 2 truck touchdown, the total distance was 379.4 feet (115.6m) – a new world record for the furthest off-road truck jump. Bryce Menzies etched his name into the history books on August 27, after he jumped over an entire ghost town in the American Southwest.
The project, dubbed ‘Bryce Menzies New Frontier’, is his very own brainchild. Watch as Red Bull TV takes us behind the scenes of this amazing feat - placing us at the knife’s edge of modern truck technology, wreaking havoc amidst the antiquated backdrop of the Wild West.
Bryce Menzies New Frontier is just another step in his exploration of the realm of what’s possible in an off-road truck, having enjoyed a successful racing career, dominating races like the Mint 400 and Baja 500.


Honda UK Reveals Civic Type R Pickup Truck Concept, And It Is For Real

Honda has stolen the show at the annual Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders (SMMT) Test Day this year in the UK by showcasing a Civic Type R Pickup Truck concept, almost a year after the launch of the standard road car.
Built by a specialist team from the Product Engineering department at the Honda UK Manufacturing (HUM) factory in Swindon and codenamed ‘Project P’, the Civic Type R Pickup Truck has been modified and developed from the standard road car to create potentially one of the fastest pickup trucks on UK roads.
To create the Project P concept, the team used a pre-production version and adapted the design rearwards from the B-pillars of the car, with sweeping lines from the roofline to the back hiding a flatbed loading area in the centre of the car where the rear seats and boot space would normally be.
Finished in Rallye Red, the concept retains the iconic rear wing associated with both the FK2 and FK8 Civic Type R, which is movable to allow direct and unfettered access to the rear of the truck.
Using the same powertrain, suspension and gearbox as the standard road car, the Project P is capable of completing the 0 - 100 sprint in under six seconds and reach a top speed of over 265 kmh.
It also possesses the same driving modes of comfort, Sport and +R, Project P offering both ride comfort as well as a unique racing capability on track.
Alyn James, the project lead said that Honda UK is even considering taking the Project P to the Nurburgring to see if they can take the record for the fastest front wheel drive pickup truck.
Phil Webb, head of car at Honda UK added, “This Civic Type R Pickup Truck concept by the special team at our Swindon-based plant demonstrates the passion and commitment of the team there – going above and beyond outside working hours to deliver the final product.”
“There are no plans to put this in to production but we will be using it to transport our lawn and garden products as and when required.”


Review: 2017 Mercedes-AMG GT S – Distilling 50 Years Of Sheer Performance

Unlike the performance arm of other brands, Mercedes-AMG is noteworthy for developing its own range of standalone products not based upon any mainstream Mercedes-Benz model.
Audi Sport admittedly has the R8
, but having started off with the SLS in 2009, AMG is now looking to cultivate an entire family of AMG GT models to challenge.
It will be a family to be reckoned with – that an
805hp hybrid-powered four-door fastback
 is the next member to join this line of models is as strong as statements of intents get. In the present, the existing GT family is offered in coupe and convertible bodystyles, but available in no less than four different performance variants – GT, GT S, GT C, and GT R.
In Malaysia, the choices are substantially fewer. The GT was launched here in 2015 and is, at present, offered exclusively in coupe form and in GT S trim. At the time, this was the range-topping variant of the GT family.
Specifications:
Price: RM1,150,000 (OTR without insurance)
Engine: 4.0-litre, V8 Longitudinal, Turbocharged Petrol
Power: 510 hp @ 6,250 rpm
Torque: 650 Nm @ 1,750 – 4,750 rpm
Transmission: 7-speed multi-clutch automatic, RWD
Safety: 8 airbags, Electronic stability control, Attention Assist, Autonomous emergency braking, Frontal collision alert, Pre-Safe, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Traffic Sign Assist, Reverse camera
Origin: Fully-imported from Germany
Overview
Although its launch coincided with the discontinuation of the SLS AMG, Mercedes is very clear in insisting that the GT is not developed as a direct successor.
Shorn of the trademark gullwing doors, armed with less power, and built to a smaller footprint, the AMG GT is aimed at slightly more earthly but no less demanding sports car opposition that includes the Porsche 911 and the
Jaguar F-Type
.
Like all AMG models, at the GT’s heart beats the power of a throbbing hand-built V8, in the case of our test car, one put together by a certain Ms Jacqueline Ayasse – one of six female engine builders plying their trade at the Affalterbach engine plant.
Developed to supersede the 5.5-litre M157 V8, the GT’s M178 powerplant is another nod to the current trend of engine downsizing. The natural potential of its 4.0-litre capacity is supplemented by force-fed air from a pair of turbochargers nestled between its two banks of four.
Outputs of 510 hp and 650 Nm in GT S guise as tested puts it at eye level with the
AMG C63S
 tested earlier on these pages, but well below the engine’s highest known state-of-tune to date –
612hp in the all-wheel driven E63S
.
The base engine is offered in a variety of tunes and configuration across the AMG line-up; here in the GT, it operates dry-sump lubrication to ensure consistent lubrication of the engine under enthusiastic cornering forces. Additionally, this configuration enables the engine to sit lower in its bay, contributing to added cornering stability.
Besides being mounted low, the engine is also pushed backwards to sit behind the front axle; with its 7-speed multi-clutch automatic transmission mounted in a transaxle configuration at the rear, this gives the GT a rather balanced 47:53 front-rear distribution of its 1,540kg kerb weight.
Alongside its ballistic engine comes a chassis lined with a commensurate amount of high-grade materials that include 90% aluminium for its spaceframe mixed with magnesium, ultra high-strength steel, and other light alloys. Suspension is double wishbone all-round with control arms forged entirely out of aluminium.
Exterior
Mercedes may have scaled this car down from the glorified heights of the SLS, but the GT is hardly lacking in exuding its own sense of occasion and drama. The SLS’ familiar low-slung appearance carries over, as does the rear-ward location of its cabin to accommodate the midship positioning of its V8 engine.
Making up for its reduced dimensions, the GT attains its road presence by smart flaunting of curves at the right places, particularly at the broad shoulders around the cabin as well as flaring of the front fenders near the wheels. The overall effect is not dissimilar to that of a body builder putting on a tight singlet, in this case, the car’s body panels appear barely enough to contain the vehicle’s awesome power.
The bootlid houses an extendable spoiler that self-deploys at high speeds, whilst sequentially-litted LEDs for the rear turn signals further add to the vehicle’s overall showmanship. The tiny AMG branding inside the tail light assembly was a particularly nice little design touch undersigning the vehicle’s attention to detail.
Interior
Much of the overwhelming success of core Mercedes-Benz models can be attributed to the aplomb in which their cabins have been able to outshine the competition in material selection and sense of occasion. The AMG GT has that solid base to build upon, but satisfying the demands of a
RM250k C-Class
 customer is one thing, meeting the demands of high-rollers with seven-figure cheques to sign is quite another.
Much like its exterior, the GT’s cabin does not share its layout with any mainstream Mercedes-Benz model. Certain switchgear are obvious enough items from the parts bin; given the already high quality benchmarks of recent Benz cabins, we fail to see how it can be significantly improved upon.
Fit and finish of certain panels require improvement, however – on our test car, there was a rattling rear panel and the centre console rear storage lid’s mechanism was not operating at the expected level of smoothness. To sum up the GT’s interior quality – switches and materials used are top notch, but the manner which panels are screwed together do not feel the same.
The bulging centre console is a subtly and subliminally reminds us of the car’s throbbing power. The eight pop-up buttons give the driver clear and intuitive access to key vehicle functions on the move. The large storage bin at the console’s front end offered useful and appreciated small item storage, but placement of the gear lever seems outright bizarre. I’m no big fan of the column stalk selector used in other Mercedes models, but that now feels like the superior arrangement – the GT’s gear selector sits so far back that you can operate it with your elbows.
Driving Experience
The throaty baritone of AMG’s 4.0-litre V8 provides the defining characteristic of the GT’s driving experience. Whether you’re pottering along at part-throttle pace of just giving it the beans, the engine never fails to send a tingle down your spine with its deep-sounding voice. Sport mode puts an added layer of richness to the soundtrack, and that’s a button you’d be tempted to press most of the time.
The engine’s provocative acoustics is backed with genuine brawn. Full-bore acceleration is outright ferocious, and the engine’s bi-turbocharged flexibility ensure an abundance of grunt is available right from low revs. Yet, such is the engine’s fullness of character that one does not need to exploit the full spectrum of its performance to enjoy its charms.
If the engine embodies the driving experience with a properly memorable sense of occasion, the steering ensures your concentration remains fully switched on at all times to appreciate it. The rack’s gearing is astonishingly quick, and the axle accordingly alert to inputs. Because of the driver sits far back from the nose, the front end’s eagerness to response feels even more heightened. Some drivers may call this twitchy, but either way, this is a car that interacts richly with your senses.
You will also in no way be made to feel small. Despite its relatively compact dimensions, the GT often feels bulky and imposing when squeezing through tight spaces.
Comfort & Refinement
The AMG GT is neither comfortable nor refined. Dial the adaptive dampers to Comfort mode if you wish, but the suspension setup is clearly geared to prioritize the elimination of roll around corners. On ultra-smooth surfaces, it translates to a car which you can power out of bend with sheer confidence; introduce some patches on the tarmac, however, the car is robbed of its poise and composure.
Noise insulation, unsurprisingly, is given little due attention; an acceptable enough compromise that more of the V8’s wonderful noise is let in, but along with it comes wind and tyre noise, the latter particularly prevalent over rough surfaces. It’s far from ideal where day-to-day living is concerned, but if you only have space for one car in your life, you probably shouldn’t have been looking at an AMG GT to start with.
Economy & Maintenance
Not likely to be an area of great consequence for prospective owners, but our test car recorded an average fuel consumption of 15.1 litres/100km over a 246km test run. The C63S with the same engine recorded a much-lower 11.0 litres/100km, but with a greater proportion of highway driving.
Conclusion
The GT is not a car for everyone; certainly, the breadth of its abilities are not as well-rounded as any member of the Porsche 911 family – an everyday sports car it is not. Additionally, a Jaguar F-Type is sharper at the helm and boasts no less imposing presence in the flesh, but the Mercedes replies with a standard of interior quality and ambiance that far surpasses the Jag’s shockingly poor build.
Driving this car is a demanding task – not quite as much of a handful as supercars from the past, but certainly not with the consummate ease that one would navigate around in a C-Class either. In any other car, this would have been berated, but with the GT, it somehow adds to the sense of occasion every time you drive it.
An interesting thing to look at, the GT is a more brutal machine than its curvaceous sheet metal suggests. Where it lacks in delicacy, it spectacularly over-delivers on presence and charm. It can admittedly be tiresome to drive at times, but you can be assured that every drive in this car would be an occasion to remember.


Uber Self-Driving Volvo XC90 Kills Pedestrian In Arizona - Software The Likely Culprit

An Uber self-driving car struck and killed a pedestrian, while she was crossing a street, in Tempe, Arizona – marking the first fatality involving an autonomous vehicle.
Reuters reports
, the incident occurred at about 10.00 PM (Arizona time) on Sunday, when Elaine Herzberg, 49, was walking with her bicycle across a four-lane road. She was struck by an Uber self-driving Volvo XC90 that was travelling at about 65 km/h.
Image credit: Twitter @ TempePolice
The Tempe Police Department reported that Herzberg was struck while walking with her bicycle across the road, although, they do not yet know how far she was from the self-driving vehicle as they crossed paths.
She later succumbed to injuries and died at the hospital.
Uber has stated that it is cooperating with law enforcement, and said that it will suspend its self-driving test programs in Arizona, Pittsburgh, and Toronto, Canada.
According to the same report, Volvo has confirmed that its XC90 SUV was involved in the crash, but have stated that software controlling the vehicle was not their own.
Self-driving Volvo XC90s
 are outfitted with additional sensors and radar systems designed according to Uber's specifications. Upon receiving the cars, Uber adds its own hardware and software, including a roof box containing LIDAR sensors and the necessary computing system, which are installed in the vehicle's rear cargo area.
Separately,
The New York Times
 reports that this is the second time an Uber self-driving vehicle has been involved in an accident. In
March 2017
, also in Tempe, Arizona – a self-driving XC90 crashed into another car, and rolled onto its side. No one was hurt in the incident, and it was later ruled that the driver of the other car was at fault for refusing to allow the XC90’s right-of-way.


How Turning On The Wipers Can Alter The Way Mazda’s Predictive i-Activ AWD Works

Having spent most of my driving life in the tropics, I don’t consciously make a distinction between driving on snow and on ice - something which I need to fix immediately if I am to drive safely in this minus 10 degrees Celsius weather in Hokkaido. Snow doesn’t get you in trouble, most of the time at least. Ice however - that’s the surface that will make you skid and crash.
Compounding the problem is that snow is visible to the naked eye but icy surfaces tend to appear as clear. Drivers from these cold climate regions have been trained to be careful of ice when ambient temperature drops below 4 degrees Celsius. This is also another reason why all cars have a display showing ambient temperature outside, something which has little or no value to us in the tropics.
As icy surfaces are the most extreme of all slippery surfaces, many car makers spend a lot of time doing winter testing to fine tune their traction and stability control systems and drivetrain. Chassis control systems that work well enough on ice, will work well enough on rain soaked roads in the tropics.
Rural places like Lapland in Finland and Arjeplog in Sweden are typically busy with prototype vehicles during winter but the problem is that these places are also public areas so spy photographers often hang out there.
Mazda sidesteps the problem by supplementing their winter testing at their own Kenbuchi Proving Ground in Hokkaido, a public area that’s closed off by the local city council at every winter to be used exclusive by Mazda. Recently, Carlist.my was recently granted a rare opportunity by Mazda to witness how development work for their i-Activ AWD was carried out in Kenbuchi.
Before that, let’s do a quick recap on Mazda’s i-Activ AWD. In Malaysia, this feature is available in the AWD variants of the CX-5 and CX-9. Elsewhere, it’s also offered as an option in the Mazda 3 and Mazda 6. The one used in the BT-50 pick-up truck is a different, off-road biased Part-Time 4WD system.
Unlike more off-road bias systems used by part-time 4WD pick-up trucks or heavy duty full-time 4WD SUVs like a Toyota Land Cruiser, Mazda’s i-Activ AWD prioritizes on-road use and lacks a low-ratio (4WD Lo) transfer case and a locking centre differential. It can only split torque between the front and rear wheels but not side to side.
As such, it’s not suitable for heavy duty off-road operations but this is fine because few Mazda customers are interested in driving off-road. The priority is to deliver good traction on slippery roads while keeping fuel consumption low.
But what makes Mazda’s i-Activ AWD different from a similarly equipped Honda CR-V? To put it simply, Mazda says its system is predictive in nature and is active at all times. Most of its peers are using a passive, reactive-based system that require at least one wheel to slip before engaging the rear axles.
There is an interesting back story to the i-Activ AWD’s development. Over the many years of working in Hokkaido during winter, Mazda engineers have learned, from the local residents, how to tell if someone is local or not simply by looking at how they walk on snow/ice.
The visitors or tourists tend to keep their hands close to their body for warmth, and walk in normal steps, both of which will make you lose your balance and slip. The locals however, tend to spread their hands out and walk in smaller steps.
“Walk like a penguin, feet pointing out, hands out, small steps,” said our host to us fumbling visitors from the tropics, who were slipping and falling on the icy surfaces.
By studying the difference in the way the locals adapt to slippery conditions, Mazda engineers began exploring the idea – why not build a simple, fuel-efficient AWD that adapts to the changing conditions in the same manner as a local Hokkaido resident is able to walk safer and faster than a tourist without relying on any special foot wear.
So instead of adding more heavy hardware to the drivetrain, Mazda engineers attempted to make better use of existing hardware tht's already in the car. They started by linking the i-Activ AWD system to 27 different sensors, some of which have no relation to the drivetrain but have been co-opted by Mazda’s engineers to function as the ‘eyes and ears’ of the car. In the same way a human uses their eyes, ears, skin to make better sense of the conditions around them, and instinctively adapt their walking posture, so too will Mazda vehicles.
If the wipers are turned on, it could only mean that visibility is poor. Readings from the ambient temperature will also tell the car if there is risk of ice. A Hokkaido resident is always sensitive to the amount of grip that can be felt from the shoe soles. A car can be programmed to do the same. What is the slip angle between the power steering’s input versus the driving wheels? What is the throttle and brake pedal’s position? As you drive along, the system is continuously taking 200 readings every second. All these data are used by the system to predict what the surface conditions are like, and allows Mazda's predictive i-Activ AWD to react faster and more precisely than rival AWD/4WDs systems in its class.
The downside on many reactive-type AWD/4WD drivetrains used by Mazda’s rivals is that they need least one wheel has to start slipping before the rear axles are engaged. It’s not only slower to react but sometimes could also result in a noticeable jerk when torque is transferred between the front and rear axles. This is less preferred because it upsets the vehicle’s balance.
Through their development work at Kenbuchi, Mazda engineers have learned that to avoid this jerk; torque needs to be transferred within this small window of just a fraction of a second - between the moment when a wheel slip is picked up by the sensors and the moment when the driver realizes any loss in traction. Thus they concluded that the key to building an predictive AWD system that meets Mazda’s ‘Jinba Ittai’ philosophy of balance, of feeling of oneness between the car and the driver, is to build an AWD that is capable of distributing torque between the two axles within this tiny window period.
For a lightning fast response, the rear axle is permanently engaged but to keep fuel consumption low, only 2 percent of torque of transferred to the rear under normal conditions. This minimal ‘pre-torque’ is there only to maintain tension in the driveline, allowing the services of the rear axle to be summoned immediately.
The system is capable of delivering front-to-rear torque split from 98:2 to a maximum of 50:50.
All of this culminates in a very precise control of torque delivery to the rear axle, which Mazda’s test drivers were very keen to demonstrate on the icy surfaces of Kenbuchi, on AWD variants of the Mazda 3 which we don’t get here. Balance and precision - everything Mazda needs to deliver the Jinba Ittai character.
Even when driving on normal studless winter tyres, the AWD CX-5 stops and accelerates and tackles corners on the icy Kenbuchi Proving Ground without any hesitation. You simply get in and drive with your instincts, with all of Mazda’s intelligent bits working quietly behind the scene, never once making its presence known and that’s exactly how Mazda engineers intended it to be.


Audi Malaysia's #ReadyToDrive Initiative Saves You 20% On Servicing And Parts

Audi Malaysia announces their #ReadyToDrive initiative, which gives Audi owners an opportunity to take advantage of a value-for-money service package.

PHS Automotive Malaysia (PHSAM), the
official distributor of the Audi brand
 in the country has announced its #ReadyToDrive initiative, which helps Audi owners in Malaysia to stay safe as well as have a peace of mind.

Campaign runs from 1 October - 31 December 2022

The #ReadyToDrive campaign which runs from 1 October to 31 December 2022 offers Audi owners value in a comprehensive package which includes:

⦁    Complimentary 30-point vehicle condition check for owners who have not visited an Audi Centre in the past 12 months

⦁    Complimentary pickup and delivery service

⦁    20% savings on Audi Service and selected wear and tear parts

⦁    20% savings on Audi Batteries

Deenan Nadar, Aftersales Director of PHSAM said that “Customer
satisfaction is very important
to them. "As such, we are levelling up our efforts across the board as we want to ensure Audis are running at their best, always."

“This will be a period of peak drives with more cars on the road, road trips and possibly hazard drives with unexpected heavy rains, floods or thunderstorms - and we want to enable Audi owners to have pleasant journeys with peace of mind,” said Deenan.

Quality improvements for aftersales services

In strengthening the quality of aftersales service, technicians at
Audi Centres
 across the country have been undergoing regular upskilling and assessments to improve their service level performance.

Audi Centres also offer comfort and convenience at a customer lounge, which is also equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi. The Centres are fully sanitised and constantly monitored to ensure that maximum hygiene is always maintained.

This marks the first aftersales initiative by PHSAM since representing the Audi brand for wholesale, marketing and aftersales in Malaysia in July 2022.


Asia GT Festival Will Host First Ever Celebrity Bazaar

All set to take place from the 15th to 17th of March 2019 at the Sepang International Circuit, the Asia GT Festival promises to be a treat not only for petrolheads but also the rest who will be attending.
The organisers of the event today announced that the Asia GT Festival will play host to a Celebrity Bazaar, which will be among the highlights visitors can look forward to during the race weekend.
Organised by Mbits Digital, a local integrated telco and broadcasting startup, the Celebrity Bazaar will feature a series of pop-up stores and marketplace by local celebrities such as Joe Flizzow, Elly Raja Lawak, Linora Low, KTown Clan, and 47 other personalities.
For music fans, there will also be a mini concert by local artists like Joe Flizzow and seven members of the 16 Baris band at 6:30pm on 17 March 2019. Other fun family-friendly activities include as rock climbing, flying fox, food truck culinary experiences, and more.
Another highlight of the inaugural Asia GT Festival is that its grid will see a line-up of 35 GT cars racing round the Sepang International Circuit track.
The grid will be the largest line-up single series GT category in Southeast Asia to date. In addition, the race will feature famous racing carmakers such as AMG, Audi, Ferrari, Bentley, McLaren, Porsche, BMW and more. Malaysian supporters can also root for local drivers including Jazeman Jaafar and Dominic Ang who will be among the driver line-up.
There will also be a hot lap showcase by the one of fastest electric road cars in the world - the NIO EP9. This state-of-the-art electric vehicle is most well-known for shattering the 20km-long Nürburgring Nordschleife lap record clocking a solid 6:45.900.
Last but not least, Malaysian Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad himself is expected to flag off the Prime Minister’s Saga Cup race on the 17th of March.


Langganan Perodua Ativa Hibrid Dibuka Kepada Yang Terpilih – RM500 Sebulan Selama 5 Tahun

Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Sdn Bhd (PERODUA)
 telah mengimport masuk 300 unit
Ativa versi Hibrid
 dari Jepun ke negara ini bagi tujuan kajian dan penilaian dengan kadar sewa RM500 sebulan.

Perkara tersebut telah disahkan sendiri oleh Presiden dan Ketua Pegawai Eksektif Perodua sendiri, Dato’ Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad yang memberitahu bahawa unit CBU terhad itu hanya akan ditawarkan kepada yang terpilih secara langganan sahaja.

Pelan Langganan Perodua Ativa Hibrid

Ativa Hibrid untuk dilanggan ini telah dibawa masuk untuk Perodua melakukan kajian menyeluruh sama ada pelan model bisnes langganan kereta ini boleh diterima di Malaysia atau tidak.

Pelan Langganan Perodua Ativa Hibrid

Tempoh: 5 Tahun

Bayaran Muka: RM2,150

Bayaran Bulanan: RM500

Had perbatuan untuk 5 tahun: 100,000 km

Harga yang ditetapkan juga merangkumi kos insurans, cukai jalan dan juga penyelenggaraan. Ini bermakna segala kos servis dan penyelenggaraan Ativa Hibrid ini kerana ia akan ditanggung sendiri secara percuma oleh Perodua.

Walau bagaimanapun, tidak semua pengedar Perodua akan terlibat dengan program ini kerana kajian dan penilaian ini hanya disasarkan di kawasan bandar seperti KL, JB dan Pulau Pinang untuk melihat kebolehgunaannya di kawasan bertrafik tinggi.

Selain itu, unit tersebut akan dilengkapi dengan alat GPS untuk Perodua memerhati dan menjejaki kereta tersebut bagi menilai corak penggunaan dan pemanduan. Setelah tamat tempoh 5 tahun, model tersebut akan dipulangkan semula kepada Perodua.

Bagaimana Nak Langgan?

Pelan ini hanya akan ditawarkan secara tertutup kepada mereka yang terpilih sahaja. Keutamaan diberikan kepada mereka yang telah menempah unit Ativa mereka namun masih belum menerima model tersebut.

Ketika ini, Perodua telah pun menghubungi mereka yang bertuah dan rata-rata daripada mereka memberikan jawapan yang positif. Perincian lanjut berkenaan pelan ini akan diumumkan kelak.

Perodua Ativa Hibrid

Perincian berkenaan spesifikasi kereta itu masih tidak dinyatakan. Namun di Jepun,
Daihatsu Rocky e-Smart Hybrid
 didatangkan dengan:

Sistem e:Smart Hybrid (sistem range extender di mana enjin petrol digunakan hanya untuk mengecaj bateri hibrid, manakala kuasa untuk memacu tayar datang sepenuhnya dari motor elektrik.

Enjin tiga silinder sebaris WA-VEX 1.2 liter NA (
102 hp
/
105 Nm
) dan dipadankan dengan motor elektrik
106 hp
/
170 Nm
, serta pek bateri 4.3 Ah.

Sistem pedal pintar S-PDL di mana pemandu boleh mengawal pecutan dan memperlahankan atau memberhentikan kereta dengan hanya satu pedal. (seperti sistem e-Pedal Nissan Leaf generasi kedua)

Mod pemanduan biasa serta ECO yang mampu mencatatkan penggunaan bahan api serendah 3.6 liter untuk setiap 100 km

Apa pula pandangan anda berkenaan dengan model bisnes kereta secara langganan ini?


Post-GST: Euromobil Announces New Pricing For Audi Vehicles, Reductions By Up To RM16,000

Euromobil, the official distributor of
Audi
 vehicles in Malaysia announced its new pricing following the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on April 1
st
, 2015. Under the new pricing, almost every vehicle in the Audi range undergoes a price cut.
The only exception however, is the
Audi A4
 1.8 TFSI that sees its price hiked up by RM1,900. The price list is as provided below (click to view larger):


Class Notes: Porsche Media Driving Academy 2017 – Professional Course

Practice makes perfect, and where driving is concerned, there can never be enough especially when it comes to honing the finer elements of car control beyond what’s needed for the daily commute. High performance driving, in particular, should only be attempted in the confines of a closed environment – this makes constant practice of the art difficult without access to a suitable venue.
Some people may say that advanced car control is relevant only for racing drivers, but that could not be further from the truth. Emergency situations can happen in the most mundane of conditions and the unfortunate truth is that the regular driving curriculum does not quite do an adequate job in equipping drivers with the necessary skills to face the unexpected.
Our line of work in this industry gives more frequent access than most to performance driving events organized by car and tyre makers. Having went through the easiest Individual difficulty in the
Porsche Media Driving Academy last year
, this writer recently returned to Sepang International Circuit to further sharpen his teeth at the next difficulty level – Professional.
Course Structure
The day starts with a briefing covering the topic of safety and a quick refresh on theories regarding grip circles, understeer, oversteer, and the like. The inevitable run-through on finding a good seating position followed – same old stuff, but no understating the importance of getting the basics right before moving on to more advanced learnings.
This being the intermediate course, we get more time behind the wheel. Three of the exercises lined up – slalom, emergency braking, and emergency lane change – were repeats from Individual level experienced last year, however, although we were taught more aggressive lines during the guided track runs in the various Porsche models.
Slalom:
 The simplest, most basic activity of any driver training class. An exercise in smooth steering and throttle inputs. The trick is to maintain partial and constant throttle pressure whilst being smooth with the steering.
Emergency Braking:
 Driver accelerates along a straight line, slam the brakes hard and steer to bring the vehicle to a complete stop at the adjacent lane. This exercise serves to demonstrate how ABS helps a vehicle retain directional control even under full braking.
Emergency Lane Change:
 An exercise to simulate the sudden appearance of an obstacle along your path, we were asked to accelerate full throttle and abruptly swerve to avoid a set of cones and then swerve back to the lane we were originally traveling in, coming to a full stop within a box marked further ahead.
Guided Track Runs:
 Compared to the Individual course, we now have more time on track. Led by a Porsche instructor driving a lead car in front barking instructions over radio, we were guided through multiple full laps around Sepang in different cars. The cornering lines being taught are more aggressive too, being sportier in nature than the ‘safety lines’ taught in the Individual class.
We were also given half-laps behind the wheel of the all-new Porsche Panamera 4S and Turbo, but more on that in a separate article.
Key Takeaways
Fine margins of braking:
A particularly noteworthy activity after completing the emergency braking exercise was a challenge to slam the brakes and stop the vehicle as close to a wall of cones as possible without knocking them down. I was given three runs, and after two conservative runs stopping the vehicle by more than a metre before the line, I delayed braking by just a further fraction of a second and ended up ploughing through the cones. In an emergency, that delay was the difference between stopping safely and ramming to the back of a stationary vehicle.
Smooth inputs keep the car balanced:
 When attempting the emergency lane change exercise in the 911, I was able to keep the car remarkably stable simply by maintaining smooth steering and throttle inputs, despite having ESC switched off. It was when the instructor asked me to yank the steering more abruptly that the car was finally induced to spin after the second swerve of the steering wheel to straighten the car back.
Speed is everything when countersteering:
Still on the lane swerving exercise with the 911, I found myself having problems straightening the car after its rear broke wide. The instructor highlighted that my steering corrections were not applied fast enough to catch the slide while I still could and the rear ended up behaving like a pendulum. To remedy my situation, I was asked, with the car stationary, to practice turning the steering as fast as I possibly could. The subsequent run after this, I was able to correct the slide before it developed. The lesson here is this: when the tail end of your car slips, there is only a small window in which you can effectively countersteer and bring the car back under control.
Ensure your helmet is the right size:
My oversized cranium often requires me to take the largest available helmet for track events, but for two successive years, the Porsche MDA's headgear were too small for me. The result? Uncomfortable headaches after I completed my laps. Better save up for a personalized helmet before next year's event.
Concluding Thoughts
Whilst the Porsche MDA was an exclusive event for journalists, similar programmes are replicated for customers and any members of the public willing to pay the admission fee. The chance to practice advanced driving techniques within safe confines is always welcomed and each outing help us sharpen our skills behind the wheel that little bit more.
This being the intermediate of a three-level course, the practices of the day felt largely like revision of the previous year's Individual level exercises but with less theory, more practice, and a little more aggression thrown in. It all adds up to extra practice of things we already know, and in an art as fine as driving, no extra minute of practice ever goes to waste.