Isuzu Malaysia Recognizes Top Truck Dealers

Nine Isuzu outlets in Malaysia were presented with the ‘Isuzu Medium-Heavy Duty (MHD) Truck Authorized Service Centre’ plaques recenty, upgrading them to flagship dealers.
The dealers are:
Automotive Corporation Malaysia (ACM)
Indah Utara Auto
Jumbo Arena
Ultra Gallant Kedah
Ultra Gallant Penang
Ultra Gallant Selangor
Ultra Gallant Negeri Sembilan
Ultra Gallant Johor
Ultra Gallant Pahang
Following the certification, the outlets are now dedicated to handling all classes of Isuzu trucks, particularly the medium-duty Forward and heavy-duty Giga models.
According to Isuzu Malaysia, the outlets had met the new standards requirements set by Isuzu’s technical team that mandates facilities to be suitably able to cater to the requirements of heavy-duty trucks.
The dealers were required to have ample availability of spare parts, trained and certified technicians skilled, as well as display technical capabilities in handling state-of-the-art proprietary diagnostic equipment.
“As the leading truck brand in Malaysia, we have the onus to not only provide the necessary support infrastructure for our customers but to continuously raise the quality levels of our service. The nine outlets that received the plaques have been exemplary in their commitment towards ensuring customer satisfaction and taken that step forward in line with our
Kaizen
 principals,” said Isuzu Malaysia’s CEO Kenji Matsuoka.
With these flagship outlets in place, Isuzu Malaysia’s customers will be able to seek efficient and professional support along the major transportation routes, particularly along the north-south highway as well as in the east coast region. The location of these outlets are key to ensuring that long-haul trucks are able to seek quick and convenient technical redress or maintenance as they ply these routes on a regular basis.
For a fill list of professional Isuzu truck dealers, please visit
www.isuzu.net.my
Looking for an Isuzu? Find one now at
Carlist.my


The Geely Geometry EX3 Is The Perfect First Proton EV

The Geely Geometry EX3 is the perfect first EV for Proton and we're hoping we see it on our roads sooner rather than later.

The recent 2022 budget announcement, which proposed a
completely tax-free incentive for EV cars
, has really got every automotive manufacturer in Malaysia jumping.

Proton is no exception to this, and it seems that they have very quickly
laid out a roadmap
 towards introducing hybrid, plug-in hybrid vehicles and electric vehicles though information of what that entails is still not publicly available.

Picked up by The Star, Proton Edar CEO Roslan Abdullah has come out and said that the electric vehicle tax incentives would help to increase the adoption rate of electric vehicles in Malaysia.

"Proton has a planned roadmap towards introducing hybrid, plug-in hybrid vehicles and electric vehicles, so perhaps this development can help push our plans forward," said the CEO.

With this being said, it's very fortunate that Proton has partners like Geely, which are currently debuting
hybrid
,
plug-in hybrid
 and
electric vehicles
 at an expedient rate.

The most recent new energy vehicle from Geely is the Geometry EX3, a vehicle that could prove to be important for Geely and those associated with the ever-growing Chinese vehicle manufacturer.

Why? Because the Geometry EX3 has been touted as one of the most affordable electric vehicles to come out of a major manufacturer. With a pre-sale estimated price from 59,700RMB (RM39k), the handsome little hatchback could potentially
be the answer
 to Proton's mass-market battery electric vehicle.

The Geometry EX3 offers 322km of range under the NEDC cycle, thanks to a 37.23kWh battery which can be charged from 0 to 80% in less than 30 minutes with high-speed DC chargers. The vehicle is also designed with charging practicality in mind as it is readily able to charge by plugging into a regular household 220V socket.

The EX3 is equipped with a 70KW e-motor that provides 180Nm of torque and a highly efficient regenerative braking system, putting it on par with traditional gasoline vehicles in terms of performance.

The EX3 also adopts a liquid-cooled battery temperature control system, allowing the vehicle to safely charge at high speeds and operate efficiently in hot climates. The battery's internal temperature is kept at 20°C to maximize its performance in all conditions and extend battery life.

With Malaysia's affinity for sporty and handsome-looking hatchbacks, the EX3's looks further make it relevant for the Malaysian market.

Size-wise, the EX3 is 4005mm long x 1760mm wide x 1575mm high with a wheelbase of 2480mm. For comparison, the 2022 Myvi facelift is 3895mm long x 1,735mm wide x 1515 high. So yeah, it's slightly bigger than the current Myvi.

Aesthetically, the interior design was developed with young consumers in mind. Adopting a two-tone black and blue colour scheme with visually impactful fluorescent highlights, the EX3 has a stylish, clean, and sophisticated feel about it. There are also suede-like soft-touch materials throughout the interior and ergonomically designed seats to provide occupants with a comfortable ride experience.

The cockpit also features a digital 10.25" LCD instrument screen and an 8" floating central infotainment system. In addition, the EX3 comes with Geely's G-Link system providing mobile device mirroring, native QQ music, Autonavi navigation, Ximalaya radio, voice control, in-car Wi-Fi, and other intelligent applications.

Safety-wise, the Geometry EX3 includes dual airbags, reversing sensors and cameras, a Tire Pressure Monitoring System, as well as ABS + EBD.

Now that the
electric vehicle
 part is covered, what about a hybrid? If Proton wants to semi-design their very own hybrid vehicles, they could turn to Geely's Leishan Power for the powertrain.

Geely's Leishan Power is the Chinese manufacturer's new global powertrain brand. Yes, they even have their own powertrain brand now. Leishen's products include a world-class modular hybrid powertrain platform, high-efficiency dedicated hybrid transmissions, new hybrid engines and new E-drive systems.

The headline for the Leishan powertrain brand is its ability to provide hybrid platforms (Leishen Hi-X
)
 that include an ultra-high 43.32% thermal efficiency engine, the world's most advanced 3-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT), 40% reduced fuel consumption NEDC rating, and full powertrain FOTA (Firmware Over the Air) update capabilities.

Supercharged hybrid engine

The DHE1.5 (1.5TD) is a dedicated hybrid engine developed over five years and will be the world's first mass-produced supercharged direct-injection hybrid engine. This engine adopts four advanced technologies: high-pressure direct injection, a supercharger, a Miller-cycle, and a low-pressure EGR to achieve the world's highest thermal efficiency for a mass-produced engine of 43.32%. Its indicated thermal efficiency has reached 52.5% and offers the highest torque and power within its class.

3-speed hybrid transmission

DHT Pro will be the world's first mass-produced 3-speed hybrid transmission. It integrates two E-motors, transmission, and E-controllers weighing only 120kg. Moreover, with a maximum torque output of 4920 Nm (you read that right), the DHT Pro achieves an incredible 41Nm/kg torque to weight ratio.

Over the air updates

Hi-X is also the first hybrid platform capable of FOTA (Firmware Over The Air) improvements of the entire hybrid powertrain system that offers 20 intelligent driving modes. In addition, the innovative powertrain intelligent control unit (ICU) has strong data-driven learning capabilities and perfect coordination between engine, transmission, and battery.

According to Geely, the first models to utilize the Leishen Hi-X platform powertrain system will be Geely Auto's flagship "Star" series that includes the Xing Yue (
Tugella
) and Xing Rui (
Preface
).

As you can see, a lot of mech tech is up for grabs for Proton. It's just down to them on how they would like to use them. It is little wonder that Roslan and Proton could state that they have a roadmap for electrifying Proton vehicles, as the backing from Geely really does give them a lot of options, either in a direct re-badging way or the means to create their very own PHEV, EV or hybrid vehicles from the ground-up.


Kia Reveals Design Details Of Next Generation Picanto

Kia Motors has revealed the first official design details of its upcoming third-generation Kia Picanto model. Three detail sketches of the company’s
A-Segment hatch
, have been released ahead of its global debut at the 2017 Geneva Motorshow in March of next year.
The all-new Kia Picanto, a global bestseller for the company, is scheduled to go on sale late 2017 and promises to be more spacious than the
outgoing model
, while still sporting a sporty overall outlook.
The sketches feature Kia’s trademark ‘Tiger Nose’ grille, and much like the previous version features a meaty front fascia. A prominent waistline draws itself along the flanks and meets the tail lamps, which is observed to have tube-style LED graphics.
On the inside, the interior architecture takes cues from its larger Kia Rio brother, noticeably integrating a centrally mounted touchscreen infotainment system crowning the centre console.
UK based, AutoExpress also reports that the new car’s interior will receive better materials, such fabric and leather combination seats in the high-spec variants.
Power is likely to come from a 1.0-litre delivering 65bhp or the 1.25-litre (85bhp) four-cylinder found in the latest generation Hyundai i10 sister-car. A five-speed manual is likely to be offered, as is an automatic transmission – as seen in the sketches.


Jalan Berlubang: Betul Ke Tindakan Dalam Masa 24 Jam?

Menteri Wilayah Persekutuan, Datuk Seri Dr. Shahidan Kassim berjanji laporan jalan rosak yang diterima akan diambil tindakan dalam masa 24 jam, pada sidang Dewan Rakyat yang lalu.

Persoalannya, adakah pihak Kementerian Wilayah Persekutuan dan
Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur
 (DBKL) akan mengotakan janji tersebut?

Selepas dibanjiri ribuan panggilan telefon mengenai jalan berlubang setelah
memberikan nombor telefonnya
, Dr. Shahidan Kassim kini meminta orang ramai menghantarnya SMS.

“Saya tidak dapat menjawab semuanya, jadi jangan
call
. Saya minta orang ramai menghantar SMS kepada saya dan saya boleh mengambil tindakan,” katanya kepada Utusan Malaysia.

Beliau berkata masalah lain yang banyak diterima adalah seperti permohonan mendapatkan rumah projek perumahan rakyat (PPR) dan bantuan kewangan sehinggakan telefon bimbitnya tidak dapat berfungsi akibat panggilan yang tak henti.

Satu tinjauan telah dilakukan oleh Sinar Harian di dua lokasi iaitu di hadapan Masjid Al-Hidayah, Sentul Pasar dan di Jalan Pahang berhampiran Hospital Kuala Lumpur pada minggu lalu.

Aduan sekitar jam 9 pagi itu dihantar menerusi WhatsApp kepada Menteri Wilayah Persekutuan, Datuk Seri Dr. Shahidan Kassim dan Timbalannya, Datuk Seri Jalaluddin Alias serta Datuk Bandar Kuala Lumpur, Datuk Seri Mahadi Che Ngah.

Bagaimanapun, mesej yang dihantar itu tidak mendapat respon menyebabkan wartawan tersebut turun semula ke lokasi pada hari seterusnya untuk melihat perkembangan aduan terbabit.

Hasil tinjauan mendapati
jalan berlubang
 di hadapan Masjid Al-Hidayah Sentul Pasar telah pun dibaiki dengan turapan, namun tiada tindakan pembaikan dilaksanakan di Jalan Pahang berhampiran Hospital Kuala Lumpur.

Jadi, adakah janji Menteri Wilayah Persekutuan untuk mengambil tindakan tentang laporan jalan rosak dalam masa 24 jam ditepati? Atau 'janji' ini harus diperhalusi lagi?

Fasa peralihan monsun dengan hujan dan ribut petir yang bermula pada Oktober 2021 akan memburukkan lagi keadaan jalan berlubang kerana apabila dipenuhi air, amat sukar untuk mengetahui kedalamannya.

Hujan yang berpanjangan juga menyebabkan air akan meresap lebih dalam ke jalan raya dan menyebabkan retakan menjadi lebih besar dan akhirnya membentuk lubang.

Justeru, apakah penyelesaian jangka panjang oleh pihak DBKL terhadap isu jalan rosak ini? Jalan raya yang rosak, bertampal dan tidak rata pasti akan bertakung ketika hujan dan boleh mengakibatkan
nahas jalan raya
 jika terlanggar lopak dan lubang yang wujud di tengah-tengah jalan. Adakah pihak DBKL boleh mengambil tindakan dalam masa 24 jam ketika musim hujan ini?

Kepada pengguna jalan raya, sehingga wujud satu solusi tepat akan masalah jalan berlubang ini, anda harus sentiasa berhati-hati ketika memandu di jalan raya dan elakkan melalui kawasan berlopak atau berlubang. Salah langkah memang buruk padahnya.


2023 Chery Tiggo 8 Pro enters Malaysia as SUV flagship for RM160k

The Tiggo 8 Pro, Chery’s SUV flagship to sit alongside the smaller and more youthful Omoda 5 in Malaysia’s showrooms in 2023, is available in a single Premium variant priced at RM159,800. Does the spearheading 7-seater stand a chance at disrupting the ‘bigger’ SUV market?

Chery's re-entry into Malaysia has been a long process spanning years. Since then, previews of upcoming models and local spec versions of the Omoda 5 and Tiggo 8 Pro have been popping in and out of the public eye, making this so-called Grand Launch all the sweeter.

This time around, Chery has chosen to enter the market without a local partner, demonstrating its zeal make their mark on Malaysian market on their own terms. The brand plans to have 31 dealerships ready to welcome customers by launch date, with more promised to open by the end of 2023.

One notable aspect of Chery's strategy is that the Omoda 5 and Tiggo 8 Pro are being launched in completely knocked-down (CKD) form, with local assembly at Inokom in Kulim right from the start. So, it’s no wonder its Malaysian re-entry took a little longer than was initially expected.

The Tiggo 8 Pro has undergone several updates since its earlier preview in Malaysia in latter 2022. It features an updated exterior design with a new "galaxy" grille, full-width LED bar at the rear complete with integrated T-shaped third brake lights. The wheels have also been upgraded to 19-inch units.

Inside, the Tiggo 8 Pro showcases a horizontal dash design with modern elements like conjoined screens, inline AC vents, and a high centre console to it a sense of driver-orientedness, though this doesn’t really have performance intentions. The overall interior design is refined with plush materials, impressive build quality, and details reminiscent of European cars double its price.

The Tiggo 8 Pro comes with a 2.0L TGDI four-cylinder engine generating 256 hp and 390 Nm of torque, which already puts it ahead of most rivals. Power is transmitted to the front wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The SUV is equipped with a comprehensive set of features, including electronic parking brake with auto hold, automatic LED headlamps with LED daytime running lights, multi-colour ambient lighting, electric front seats with ventilation/heating, driver's seat memory, dual-zone auto air conditioning with rear vents, hands-free powered tailgate, electronic panoramic sunroof, wireless phone charger, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

It also incorporates advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning/keeping, blind spot detection, adaptive cruise control, and front collision warning with auto braking.

In terms of safety, the Tiggo 8 Pro stands out by offering nine airbags, including a driver's knee bag and rear side airbags, a rare addition outside the luxury segment.

Comparisons to the Proton X90 are inevitable, both being three-row SUV designed and engineered in China. True, the Tiggo 8 Pro has a higher price tag but counters that by offering more power from its 2.0T engine. That said, the X90 does have the edge on overall interior space and cargo capacity.

Chery Malaysia also unveiled its warranty package during the joint launch event, which includes a seven-year or 150,000 km vehicle warranty, five years of alternating "free service" (free labor), and an impressive 10-year or one million km engine warranty for the first 3,000 customers. After that, the engine warranty reverts to the standard seven-year/150,000 km coverage.


RapidKL Under Fire (Again) Over Last-Minute Bus Service Cancellation

RapidKL
 is again in hot water after announcing the discontinuation of its express bus services located at the
LRT/MRT
 Pasar Seni and KLCC stations.

While cancellations and discontinuations are a normal part of any business and service provider, it was the timing that angered netizens. The RapidKL express bus services at the Pasar Seni and KLCC stations ended on 4 July 2022, but the announcement of the cancellation was only made on 3 July 2022 at 10:06 pm. Yo, what.

According to Rapid Bus CEO Muhammad Yazurin Sallij Muhammad Yasin, the free bus service was cancelled due to a lacklustre reception since it started on June 17.  He further added that on average only one passenger per route was recorded as commuters prefer to use the train instead. Hardly rocket science there. Also, why was the communication for the termination of said routes made in such an abrupt manner?

This does however beg the question of who plans these bus routes and why is a feasibility study first not undertaken before these bus routes are established?

The affected routes are SH01 (KLCC-Wangsa Maju), SH02 (Pasar Seni - Universiti) and SH03 (Pasar Seni - KLCC).

Seeing as how the response was apparently underwhelming for these bus routes, it shouldn't be too much of a bummer to commuters. Don't forget that all RapidKL public transportation services (MRT, LRT, KL Monorail, and RapidKL) are
free to use
 until the middle of July. All the best in your daily commute, people.


Nissan's new Skyline concept is just an old Infiniti Q50 full of goofy gimmicks

We're all pretty used to seeing an auto manufacturer market their car as having an all-in-one experience, but Nissan is probably the first one to stuff 30 goofy accessories into an ageing mid-size sedan to prove that they are doing some work and thinking of the future.

This is more of a you must see it to believe it rather than read it kind of thing as the video of the Nissan Skyline contemporary lifestyle vehicle concept and its 30 whacky features is most vivid when seen.

Nonetheless, the theme of the build is all about eat, sleep and play on the go, which is why they have pretty much stuffed the
Skyline/Q50
 up to the brim with features that practically turn it into a mobile home, like something out of a cheerful doomsday movie where you would have to rely on your vehicle for everything.

Everything from bins, tables, phone stands, projectors, sleeping are,a and garbage disposal are integrated into the car, and of course, Nissan was going to include a personal AI assistant name SORA which can remind you that you have yet to empty the bins.

For those of you wondering why the Nissan Skyline looks like a Skyline that you can't ever recall, well that's because in some parts of the world, including Japan, the Infiniti Q50 is sold as a Skyline.


Perbezaan Enjin: Perodua Alza 2022 vs Perodua Alza 2009

Walaupun
Perodua Alza 2022
 masih menggunakan enjin berkapasiti sama (1.5L) seperti enjin Alza terdahulu, namun jenis enjinnya adalah berbeza sama sekali. Apa beza antara dua-dua jenis enjin ni?

Berikut merupakan jenis enjin yang digunakan oleh Alza mengikut generasi:

Perodua Alza 2009: 1.5L 3SZ-VE DVVT (Euro 3)

Perodua Alza 2022: 1.5L 2NR-VE DVVTi (Euro 4)

Enjin terdahulu tidak lagi digunakan kerana
tidak melepasi undang-undang emisi ekzos
 yang ditetapkan oleh kerajaan Malaysia yang bakal beralih dari Euro 2 kepada Euro 4 menjelang awal tahun ini. Walaubagaimanapun, Perodua telah berjaya memohon untuk meneruskan pengeluaran Alza sehingga bulan April 2022 meskipun undang-undang tersebut telah terlaksana pada ketika itu.

Perbezaan Enjin

Model

Perodua Alza 2009

Perodua Alza 2022

Jenis Enjin

1.5L 3SZ-VE DVVT

1.5L 2NR-VE DVVTi

Output (PS)

104

106

Tork (Nm)

136

138

Penggunaan Bahan Api (L)

13.3 km/l

22 km/l

Dari segi perbezaan output, tidak banyak beza antara kedua-dua Alza ini jika dibandingkan di atas kertas dengan hanya berbeza 2 PS dan 2 Nm tork lebih tinggi berbanding sebelumnya. Tetapi Perodua Alza 2022 kini dilengkapi dengan mod pemanduan seperti Normal, Eco dan Power yang lebih banyak membantu dari segi pemanduan seperti memotong ataupun menjimatkan minyak.

Penggunaan Bahan Api

Sebelum ini, Alza hadir dengan tangki minyak bersaiz 42 liter namun kini tangki Alza 2022 telah dipertingkatkan kepada 43 liter dengan penggunaan bahan api sehingga boleh mencecah 22 km/L, menyaksikan penambahan sebanyak 8.7km/L lebih berbanding sebelumnya.

Walau bagaimanapun, bacaan jarak penggunaan bahan api Perodua Alza 2022 itu dibuat berasaskan mod MDC (Malaysian Driving Cycle). Dengan ini, anda memerlukan kurang daripada RM40 untuk mengisi minyak kereta untuk bergerak dari KL ke Pulau Pinang (358 km) jika harga minyak RON95 masih berada pada RM2.05 seliter.

 Jika menggunakan kaedah New European Driving Cycle (NEDC), Alza 2022 mencatatkan penggunaan bahan api pada 18.9 km/L. Secara ringkasnya, penggunaan enjin baharu ini 40% lebih efisien dari segi penggunaan minyak serta prestasinya menurut Perodua.

Beza Enjin Alza 2022 Dengan Myvi, Aruz

Model

Perodua Aruz 2021

Perodua Myvi 2022

Perodua Alza 2022

Jenis Enjin

1.5L 2NR-VE DVVTi

1.5L 2NR-VE DVVTi

1.5L 2NR-VE DVVTi

Output (PS)

102

103

106

Tork (Nm)

133

137

138

Walaupun ketiga-tiga model Perodua ini berkongsi enjin yang sama, namun Perodua mendakwa telah menala kembali enjin pada Alza menjadikan ia sedikit berkuasa berbanding enjin versi terdahulu yang digunakan pada Aruz dan Myvi.

Transmisi D-CVT

Semenjak pengenalan transmisi D-CVT pada Perodua Ativa dan seterusnya diperkenalkan pada Myvi, transmisi ini juga dibawa masuk pada Alza 2022 menggantikan transmisi 4-kelajuan automatik yang digunakan Alza terdahulu.

Kelebihan D-CVT

Kecekapan transmisi dipertingkatkan

Saiz lebih kompak dan ringan

Pergerakan yang berkuasa dan lancar pada kelajuan rendah

Jimat minyak dan prestasi yang lebih senyap ketika kelajuan tinggi

Kombinasi rantai keluli dan
Planetary Gear Set
 pada transmisi ini membuatkan rantai keluli digunakan ketika berada pada kelajuan rendah manakala pergerakan kelajuan sederhana dan kelajuan tinggi akan menggunakan
Planetary Gear Set.

Kesimpulan

Kesimpulannya, enjin yang digunakan oleh Alza 2022 ini bukan sahaja lebih lancar, berkuasa dan menjimatkan minyak, namun ia juga sudah terbukti berkesan dan sesuai dengan keadaan di Malaysia kerana telah digunakan oleh Aruz dan Myvi tanpa sebarang masalah besar setakat ini.


Review: Kia Picanto 1.25L EX (AT) – Small Car Hits The Big League

First, full disclosure. I have been an owner of the second-generation Kia Picanto (TA) for little under three years now, and have had nothing short of a wonderful ownership experience. My little Picanto has been faultless, a massive
joy to drive
 near and far, and most importantly, it's cheap to run. Add to that, an aftersales experience that has been largely efficient thus far (Kia even gives it a good wash after every service).
So, being unbiased for this review will be tough, admittedly. But, while it’s been a superb car to own and drive – it isn’t perfect, which makes me a perfect candidate to illustrate how the subtle but substantial changes have turned the third-generation Kia Picanto into a serious contender in Malaysia's big league of little cars.
Overview
The third-generation Kia Picanto (JA) was unveiled at the
2017 Geneva International Motor Show
 – boasting a more youthful design, better build quality and most importantly, improved practicality.
Launched locally
 in January this year, the new locally-assembled Kia Picanto EX (AT) is also for the first time, competitively priced, starting at RM49,888.
This puts the Picanto on par with the
Perodua Myvi
 1.3L Premium X (AT) and
Proton Iriz
 1.3L Executive (AT) priced at RM48,300 and RM49,204 respectively. The 1.5L Myvi H (AT) is priced higher, starting at RM51,800.
Based on a new platform – the Picanto now sits on a 15mm longer wheelbase, measuring in at 2,400 mm. The front wheels have been pushed further out to the corners of the car for a 25 mm shorter front overhang and better overall stance. Essentially, more space has been freed up for the cabin and boot, without making the new car any bigger than its predecessor – measuring in at an identical 3,595 mm length, and 1,595 mm width respectively.
Kia has introduced subtle changes to create a better cabin space - a lower step height makes for easier ingress and egress, while the base of the dashboard has been moved upwards by 15 mm for greater knee room at the front. In the rear, the angle of the backrest is more reclined – from 25 to 27 degrees – for a more relaxed posture for occupants.
The Malaysian market misses out on the new 1.0-litre (100 PS/ 172 Nm) turbocharged and direct-injected four-cylinder engine, which is offered to selected European markets.
The Malaysian market instead receives the 1.25-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder, which produces 84 PS, and 122 Nm of torque, carried over from the previous generation. Kia has optimized the engine’s Dual CVVT (continuously-variable valve timing) system and added a new cooling system with a shut-off valve for improved cold-start performance.
The engine is mated exclusively to a four-speed automatic, as Kia Malaysia has dropped the manual five-speed variant this time around.
In the ride and handling department - the Picanto’s anti-roll bars are 2% stiffer and mounted slightly lower at the front, and 5% stiffer and slightly higher at the rear.
In addition, the longer wheelbase has allowed the pitch centre of the car to be moved further towards the rear of the car, helping to reduce ‘nose dive’ under braking without firming up the suspension. A reshaped rear torsion-beam, with redesigned trailing arms, reduces 1.8 kg of sprung weight at the rear. Elsewhere, the steering ratio has been quickened by 13% over the outgoing model – lock-to-lock is now at 2.8 turns, down from 3.4.
Specifications
Engine: 1.25-litre, transverse 4-cylinder, Dual-CVVT
Power: 84 PS @ 6,000 rpm
Torque: 122 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
Transmission: Four-speed automatic, front-wheel drive
Safety: 6 airbags, Hill Start Assist, ABS, Brake Assist, ESC, Traction Control
Price: From RM49,800
Origin: Locally-assembled at NAZA Automotive Manufacturing, Kedah.
Exterior
Penned in Namyang Korea, with input from Kia’s design studio in Germany, the emphasis on the third-generation model has been largely centered on maximising its stance and improving practicality, within its rather small footprint.
Subtle changes such as the new profile of its C-pillar, which stands more upright than the predecessor, to create a larger door aperture, and better overall body proportions.
It’s also worthy to note, that the Picanto is the only car in the segment to offer LED daytime running lights (DRL) – the U-shaped graphics themselves look detailed and stylish. The latest-generation Myvi does not offer DRLs; the Iriz, on the other hand, is equipped with DRLs only in the 1.6-litre Premium variant.
Interior
It is perhaps on the inside, where the new Picanto shines the brightest. The dashboard layout is now more centrally aligned, with a 7.0-inch floating-type infotainment screen equipped with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration and a reverse camera.
Despite the commonplace hard plastics on the door cards and dashboard – there’s a sense of tactility in its execution, especially in the functionality of the switchgear and overall build quality. The three-spoke steering wheel is a joy to hold and the meter cluster’s crisp backlit graphics are miles better than the previous generation model.
And, the aforementioned (horizontally) slimmer dashboard proportions means there’s noticeably more room in the passenger footwell. After a near four-hour stint of driving, the seats remained comfortable, noticeably better than the hard padding in the previous generation car.
There’s no denying the Myvi and Iriz are larger and more spacious at the back than the Picanto, given those two cars actually conform to larger B-segment dimensions, but now there’s far better accessibility and rear legroom than the previous generation.
Comparing it to my own car, there’s less of a need to shuffle the front seats forward to accommodate rear passengers. And in terms of practicality (such as cubby holes and storage space), it’s as well equipped as the other two.
Courtesy of a deeper boot floor (than the predecessor) this time around – bootspace is up to 255-litres, 40-litres more than the Iriz, and 22-litres shy of the mighty Myvi. With the 60:40 split-fold rear seats down, cargo capacity is boosted to 1,010 litres.
Driving Experience
Our test route would take through the busy city streets of PJ, to rustic Malacca. En route, we headed through equally dense highway routes, before we detoured onto quiet backroads for a true test of the new car’s ability.
Straight off the bat – I could instantly appreciate the Picanto’s refinement levels. The engine and gearbox are pleasantly quiet and hum away without having too much vibration, and noise transmitted into the cabin.
Pound-for-pound, the Picanto and Iriz are closely matched in terms of refinement and overall comfort levels. Which is to say that I would prefer it over the Myvi, which can be a tad stiff and nervous on bumpy roads and at high speeds.
Most bumps and ruts in the road do not unsettle the Picanto, which endows it with this wonderful duality of being a city car and an able highway cruiser at the same time. For the most part, the suspension is so well sorted that it manages to feel like a bigger car. Maybe I’m pitching this a bit too far, but it captures some of the essence and ability of my favourite B-segment car, the Mazda 2.
On tighter B-roads, the surefootedness and overall poise of the Picanto become even more apparent. When pushed hard, the suspension starts to load up nicely and claw into the road. Given the car's sharp front end and good body control, it rarely stepped out of a chosen line and proved to be unassumingly quick on a tight backroad.
Also, given its petite 983 kg kerb weight (Myvi: 985 kg, Iriz: 1,185 kg), it’s a blast to drive enthusiastically, and handles quick direction changes with aplomb, and tracks true at high speeds.
A crucial contributor of this is the body’s improved rigidity (44 percent high strength steel) and quick steering – just 2.8 turns lock-to-lock, which allows to one to carve out turns rather precisely, and with little steering effort, while still being responsive enough to minute steering inputs on straight sections of road. Again, mimicking another attribute that makes the Mazda 2 so great to drive.
Power is adequate – 84 PS might not sound like much, but the little 1.25-litre engine is eager and loves to be revved out. And, despite its smaller displacement, it actually produces more torque (122 Nm) than the Myvi (121 Nm), and Iriz (120 Nm), which gives it punchy mid-range response.
The four-speed gearbox is adequately quick in its changes and rather perceptive to the driver’s inputs. Depress the throttle with some authority, and the gearbox will swiftly hunt for a lower gear ratio, which makes it quite a breeze during overtaking and uphill climbs.
My personal car has a five-speed manual gearbox, which of course is substantially more involving and fun to drive, but for the most part, the automatic gearbox is talented enough to suit most driving styles, and will even appease more enthusiastic drivers.
Conclusion
I remember reading the press release during the world debut of the new Picanto, and thinking to myself that Kia’s efforts had possibly addressed almost every shortcoming I believed were deeply apparent on the outgoing model.
Better legroom at the rear, softer padding for the seats, a longer, more stable wheelbase, less dive during braking and cornering, and especially quicker steering – all boxes I would’ve personally ticked to make my car much better to drive, and easier to live with.
This evolutionary process of development has made a great product, and a globally successful model for Kia, even better.
This is the only non-national car in this most competitive of segments, so I still believe Kia Malaysia has a steep uphill climb ahead of them, but, they finally have a superbly executed and well-rounded product to genuinely take the fight to the Myvi and Iriz.
The Myvi and Iriz still remain the obvious choice if you’re looking for better overall space – the Picanto counters that with a snazzy exterior design, a superbly designed interior, great refinement levels, the best safety equipment in its class and a well-sorted drivetrain that makes the Picanto both comfortable and fun to drive.
And those are some pretty big reasons to consider this little car.


New Volvo 3S Centre launched in Setia Alam

Sime Darby Swedish Auto
 has launched its second Volvo dealership here in Malaysia.

Located in Setia Alam, Shah Alam, the new Volvo 3S Centre (sales, service, body, and paint repair) has the capability to offer end-to-end services for its customers.

Covering a span of 23,000 square feet, the new Volvo 3S Centre in Setia Alam offers full immersion in the Volvo Retail Experience (VRE) as well as other high-tech facilities such as four charging bays and everything else in between when it comes to the ownership of Volvo vehicles.

According to Charles Frump, Managing Director of Volvo Car Malaysia, "We are pleased to reinforce our partnership with Sime Darby Swedish Auto through the opening of the Setia Alam dealership and we look forward to forging a stronger collaboration in showcasing how Volvo vehicles offer its owners and customers the freedom to move in a personal, sustainable and safe way."

The new Volvo Setia Alam showroom is located at No.3, Jalan Setia Alam Murni, U13/AH, Seksyen U13, 40170 Shah Alam, Selangor. Operation hours start from 8.30am to 6.00pm daily.


Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W213) Confirmed for Malaysia Launch – 9 June 2016

If you’ve been waiting for the arrival of
Mercedes-Benz
’s all-new
W213 E-Class,
 the date to mark on your calendar is 9 June 2016.

Information at our disposal is rather cloudy, although Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) is already beginning to seed interest in a
specifically-designed microsite
 accessible through the company’s official website.

Reliable sources have revealed to us that new E-Class will launch as a fully-imported model, although the vehicle will be locally assembled for the long term.

Globally, Mercedes-Benz offers a wide range of petrol and diesel engines of various capacities and output. Our speculation is that MBM will start off the offensive with the four-cylinder petrol models powered by the company’s M274 2.0-litre turbo engine powering the E 200 (184hp), E 250 (211hp), and may be even E 300 (252hp).

A 3.5-litre V6 flagship is also possible, and we believe the case for a tax free diesel-powered E 300 BlueTec Hybrid (or an equivalent variant for this generation) is likely being explored for introduction with local assembly.


Nissan Terra Body-On-Frame SUV To Premiere In China This Spring

It's going to be the first model from Nissan's frame and LCV (Light Commercial Vehicle) divison under the Nissan M.O.V.E to 2022 midterm plan. It's the Nissan Terra, and it's the latest in a line of body-on-frame SUVs from the Japanese carmaker.
It'll be making its debut in China around spring of this year, and is going to be an integral part of the Nissan model range in the coming years. While they may not be the most popular Japanese car brand out there, the next few years are important for Nissan to turn things around.
Nissan's frame and LCV unit is focused on making vehicles like SUVs, pickups, vans, and light-duty trucks - and they're seen as being fairly important to achieve Nissan's mid-term objectives.
If a sixth of all Nissans sold around the globe is a frame-based vehicle or a LCV, it is a segment that Nissan cannot ignore. Their ambition is to become the global leader in LCV sales by 2022, and to improve sales by 40%.
For now we have a couple of photos and a video to go on, before the full launch later in the year - but it's shaping up to be a competitive product when you look at contemporary offerings in this market segment. Whether it'll be introduced here is difficult to say, but there will definitely be a market within South-East Asia.


The 2021 Daihatsu Rocky Hybrid Is Coming!

It seems that Daihatsu is finally putting the DNGA platform through its paces with a hybrid variant of their compact crossover.

All the news may be focused on the fact that Perodua is on the cusp of
launching the Ativa
 - the most exciting, intricate, and complex model that they've ever produced. Even with all of that in mind, something else has popped up on the radar - and that's the fact that Daihatsu has officially announced a hybrid variant of the Rocky - sister car to
the Ativa
 - due for launch by the end of 2021.

The hybrid model will borrow technology from parent company, Toyota, and will be their first foray into hybrid vehicles in over a decade since their Hijet commercial vehicle that ceased production in 2010. Hybrid models are naturally fairly expensive, which is antithetical to Daihatsu's budget-friendly approach to motoring.

If that sounds strange to you, know that Malaysia is one of the few countries in the world where hybrid models are cheaper than our conventional models. There is also the fact that the
DNGA platform
 is designed with electrification in mind, which means that something like this was already in the cards since the introduction of the platform a couple of years ago.

As is the case with most extreme developments, Daihatsu's move is likely to be driven by government regulations. As is politically correct, Japan intends to reach carbon neutrality in the next 30 years - and part of that involved completely killing off petrol vehicles by 2035. The hybrid could be the gateway drug to full electrification, and may be preparing both their production and aftersales facilities to handle it.

The fact that the technology is adapted from Toyota's strong portfolio of products and components, there is even the possibility that the hybrid Rocky could run on pure electric power alone, in addition to hybrid power delivery with the petrol engine in tandem. Throw in a plug-in system, and you just might have the perfect low-emission
city car
.


Impatient Johor drivers, including Singaporeans, drive on opposite lane to get ahead in traffic

Drivers in Johor caught in the act of driving in the opposite direction just to avoid road congestion.

With roads getting more and more congested, especially during rush hour, motorists are starting to ignore road rules and etiquette just so that they can get to their destinations faster.

A prime example of this behaviour was recently seen and
caught on camera in Johor
, where a few impatient drivers drove in the wrong direction just so they could avoid traffic.

The drivers who were trying to escape the crawl caused by the usual rush hour rat race totally neglected the safety of others. According to New Straits Times, the incident was believed to have taken place in Bukit Chagar, just around the border area between Johor and Singapore.

The video posted on Twitter has angered many netizens and has led to many comments, ranging from verbal attacks towards the lawless drivers to criticism of bad road planning and the usual
blame it on the Singaporeans'
 comments.

Singaporeans do have something to do with it, as some of the reckless drivers in the clip seem to be Singaporeans and the fact that influx of Singaporeans entering or exiting the state does not help with the congestion around the area.

One of the comments picked up by NST was, "Singaporeans travelling home. As usual, every Sunday from 5pm onwards is a nightmare."

But Malaysians too have been caught doing the act, so it's not just Singaporean drivers that are to be blamed.

Some netizens went in hard over their dissatisfaction with the poor road planning by the local government and lack of enforcement by the authorities.


Customer Satisfaction To Be Honda Malaysia’s Main Priority For 2018

After a successful 2017 that saw Honda Malaysia achieving its highest ever sales record (109,511 units) and ranking No.2 globally in terms of market share, the company has announced that customer satisfaction will be its primary focus for 2018.
Among the initiatives outlined for 2018 are:
Express Dealers to offer 90-minute fast service
Adding seven more dealerships (totaling 100 outlets)
Web portal for after-sales services – appointments, service history and job status
Partnerships with vocational and automotive colleges
Extended operating hours for Honda Toll Free line – 0900 to 2200 hours, including public holidays
The first of Honda’s Express Dealers, HZN Express in Glenmarie, Shah Alam, has started operations. The facility is able to complete regular maintenance jobs in 1.5 hours instead of the usual 2 hours. In addition to that, the company is also in the midst of implementing their new corporate identity at its dealerships.
To ensure that all its service centres are well staffed, Honda Malaysia is collaborating with a public vocational college and a local private automotive college where selected students and graduates will receive a 6-month training before becoming certified technicians for Honda Malaysia. The training will help prepare the graduates to follow their Fixed Right First Time (FRFT) standard.
A total of seven more dealerships will be opened this year, ranging from 2S to 3S centres, bringing the total dealership count to 100.
Honda Malaysia is setting up an After-sales Portal, a virtual touchpoint to make bookings for service appointments and track the progress status of vehicles, service history and product updates. This dedicated portal, optimized for both computers and mobile devices, is slated to go live later this year.
The company’s 1800 88 2020 customer care line previously operated only on weekdays from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and was closed on public holidays. Now, the improved customer line operates from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm, daily including on public holidays.
Supporting all these initiatives is a total investment of RM 31 million, all to be invested within this year.


Selected Service Centres Resume Business Nationwide, but Appointments Only

As we enter the fourth phase of the MCO, the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) has given approval to numerous manufacturers to resume service operations at selected outlets.

However, business at these selected outlets are not back to 100% capacity like they used to be as the lockdown is still very much in effect. So, it is still on appointment basis. That being said, below are the list of brands that are “open” now:

Nissan

Tan Chong Ekspres Auto Servis Sdn. Bhd. (TCEAS) services will be rendered via appointment only. Customers will have to drop off their Nissan vehicles at the confirmed service centre and appointment slot, and are not allowed to wait at the service centre.

Service appointment can be made beforehand via DriveOn mobile app, TCEAS website, Nissan Customer Care Centre hotline at 1800-88-3838 or directly to the operating service centres. Customers are strongly advised to select the nearest service centre to abide by the MCO’s travelling regulations.

Mitsubishi

Selected service centres nationwide have resumed operations, but customers will have to contact their nearest MMM authorized service centres if they need car servicing and maintenance.

The following safety measures will be strictly observed:

Appointment basis only, no walk-in customers are allowed

Contactless car acceptance

Pick-up and drop-off only, customers are not allowed to wait at the service premises

Temperature checks and the use of masks for all customers and staff

Hand sanitizers will be available at the entrance of the service centres

Vehicles will be sanitized before handover to customers.

Honda

Upon arrival at the dealership, Honda customers will have to undergo temperature scanning and hand sanitizers have been prepared for their use while their appointment status is being verified.

Individuals recording temperature of 37.5°C and above or are exhibiting symptoms of fever, cough and shortness of breath are advised to leave the premises to immediately seek medical attention.

The number of customers present at any one time for their car service in the dealership will also be limited to a minimum capacity.

It is compulsory for customers to make appointments with their nearest dealers prior to their visit to ensure the availability of a slot for their car service. In order to maintain social distancing, the company’s dealers are commencing a car drop service.

Hyundai

To date, all Sime Darby Auto Hyundai (SDAH) service centres have resumed operations. During the Movement Control Order (MCO) period, only a minimal number of service personnel and customers are allowed at the service centres, therefore SDAH service centres are only accepting customers with service appointments and no walk-ins will be allowed.

To book a service appointment, customers will need to contact a SDAH service outlet of their choice or a service advisor directly.

SDAH service centres are located at Ara Damansara, Petaling Jaya; Old Klang Road, Kuala Lumpur; Ipoh, Perak; Georgetown and Prai, Penang; as well as at Skudai, Johor.

Operational hours will be limited from 9am to 4pm on weekdays, and 9am to 12pm on Saturdays for most SDAH service centres, except for outlets in Georgetown and Prai which will operate from 8am to 5pm, and 9am to 2pm respectively.

Toyota

Selected Toyota service centres nationwide will operate for emergency and urgent service requirements only, at minimum capacity.

Customers are advised that the services are by appointment only. Customers will have to contact their respective nearest service centre to confirm if the service centre is in operation and to secure a suitable appointment before visiting the service centre.

Customers are also strongly advised to keep in mind about MCO restrictions on their travel.

Subaru

Customers can view the full list of service centres that will be operating during the extended MCO period
here
. Services authorised by MITI during the MCO period include service maintenance, minor repairs, and vehicle breakdown services.

Customers are advised to contact their nearest service centre to make an appointment before visiting. The company will continue assisting customers for emergencies during the MCO period through the Subaru Careline at 1-800-22-9898 or 012-536-0080. TC Subaru is also extending the vehicle warranties of customers, which expire during the MCO period, by 60 days or 1,000km, whichever comes first.

Volkswagen

All of Volkswagen service centres are now operating with MITI's approval, but customers are advised to contact their dealers to make an appointment first. The brand announced that those who have signed up for the brand's 'Welcome Back' aftersales campaign will receive priority slots depending on availability.

Among the steps taken by the company during this period include:

Regularly sanitised premises

Safety screening and briefing for staffs

Regular temperature checks

Contactless vehicle acceptance

Vehicle sanitisation before and after service

Pick-up and drop-off arrangement with selected dealers

In conclusion, servicing a vehicle can only be done via appointment for every brand out there at the moment. So, contact your nearest service centre to book your slot if your vehicle is due for servicing, or needs some fixing.

Also, watch this space for more announcements from manufacturers.


Audi Starts Training Its Employees On Big Data And A.I.

With each passing month, we see more and more car companies taking a deep dive into artificial intelligence and autonomous systems, as well as studying big data that comes with developing autonomous systems for use in city environments. They do this either by partnering with existing companies or absorbing them, or through loose investments with tech sharing agreements. Audi is starting to train their own employees in-house under the new "data.camp" motto, to prepare them for the future of automobile engineering.
Despite advances in education and the inclusion of information technology in the most syllabuses around the world, there is still a great number of people in the current workforce that don't quite understand the basics of it. This is especially true in Germany where vocational training means most employees have very narrow ranges of expertise, but with new car development requiring integration with the cloud and such, employees need to understand what they're going to be dealing with.
At the Audi Academy, they are carefully analyzing the requirements of various business units in order to prepare a more concise syllabus for each group of employees. Basic programs include programming and data analytics, going up to university level courses on artificial intelligence and machine learning. There are also courses for agile development like scrum, design and thinking and rapid prototyping leading up to qualification in big data.
Audi will also be working together with external partners for this endeavour. The Udacity online platform allows tutors from various departments to manage the learning of participants, and it ensures a tight technical connection with Audi. Audi students are required to participant for 10 hours a week, in parallel to their regular work duties. It's much like a night course class, and at the end of the course participants will receive a nanodegree; eventually the qualifications for big data will help transform Audi's workforce and help them adapt to the digital car economy.


Kecil, Ringan & Menyeronokkan - Road Tax Honda S660 Hanya RM20!

Jika anda sedang mencari kereta sports bersaiz kecil dan seronok untuk dipandu, mungkin
Honda S660
 yang disenaraikan di
Carlist.my
 ini adalah kereta yang anda cari!

Dari pandangan pertama, Honda S660 mempunyai profil yang unik, kecil dan rendah serta dipadankan dengan enjin dengan kuasa yang mencukupi bagi memberikan lebih keyakinan untuk menyerang selekoh dengan lebih stabil.

Pengenalan Honda S660

Honda S660 merupakan sebuah kereta Sports jenis
Roadster
 dengan
Targa Top
 (bumbung boleh dibuka) yang diposisikan di dalam kelas kereta Kei. Kereta Kei merupakan kereta kecil yang dikhaskan untuk penggunaan bandar di Jepun.

Kei merupakan kategori kereta penumpang paling kecil yang ‘halal’ digunakan di lebuh raya di Jepun dengan dimensi dan kapasiti enjin yang terhad. Model ini difahamkan hampir dibawa ke Pasaran Malaysia secara rasmi, namun atas sebab-sebab tertentu, model ini tidak diperkenalkan secara rasmi di sini oleh Honda Malaysia.

Rupa bentuk kereta ini yang unik merupakan idea daripada jurutera termuda mereka, Ryo Mukumoto yang berumur 22 tahun pada ketika itu setelah menewaskan 400 jurutera lain dalam pertandingan dalaman yang dianjurkan oleh Honda.

Honda telah memberi tempoh selama 5 tahun kepada Ryo untuk membangunkan kereta ini dengan bantuan jurutera lain yang lebih berpengalaman. Hasilnya, terciptalah Honda S660 ini.

Prestasi Honda SS60

Di atas kertas, Honda S660 ini tidaklah hadir dengan enjin yang berkuasa tinggi kerana kapasiti enjinnya sama seperti Perodua Kancil, iaitu pada 660cc. Walau bagaimanapun, S660 menggunakan enjin S07A Turbo yang menghasilkan 64 PS serta 104 Nm tork.

Sebagai perbandingan, enjin turbo S660 ini menghasilkan 33 PS serta 55 Nm lebih berkuasa berbanding Kancil 660 yang menghasilkan 31 PS serta 49 Nm tork. Namun perkara ini sudah dijangka memandangkan enjin pada Kancil bukanlah enjin turbo.

Enjin S660 ini dipadankan dengan dua pilihan transmisi, iaitu CVT atau 6-kelajuan manual dan kuasa enjin ini akan dihantar ke roda belakang kereta (RWD). Sebagai kereta sports dengan enjin
mid-mounted,
 enjin S660 diposisikan di bahagian bonet belakang kereta berbanding di bonet hadapan.

Dimensi Honda S660

Panjang: 3,395 mm

Lebar: 1,475 mm

Tinggi: 1,180 mm

Jarak Antara Roda: 2,285 mm

Honda S660 mempunyai saiz yang amat kecil. Sebagai perbandingan, Honda S660 adalah 500 mm lebih pendek, 260 mm lebih sempit, 335 mm  rendah serta mempunyai jarak antara roda 215 mm lebih pendek berbanding Perodua Myvi 2022.

Exterior Honda S660

Dari segi rupa luaran, Honda S660 ini kelihatan seakan-akan sama seperti Honda Beat yang dikeluarkan pada tahun 1991-1996 disebabkan oleh had atau sekatan yang dikenakan ke atas kereta Kei. Penggunaan nama huruf ‘S’ diikuti dengan kapasiti enjin adalah tradisi Honda yang diinspirasikan daripada kereta klasik Honda S500.

Model yang kami terima ini merupakan model 2019 versi Modulo X yang menampilkan beberapa aksesori baharu seperti lebih banyak kemasan hitam seperti di perumah lampu nyalaan siang (DRL), cermin sisi, dan bahagian
skirting
 kereta.

Di belakang, kit Modulo X ini hadir dengan rekaan bampar belakang yang lebih agresif bersama kemasan
diffuser
 dan tip ekzos kereta yang diletakkan pada bahagian tengah. Lebih menarik, S660 Modulo X ini datang dengan spoiler belakang yang aktif (boleh naik turun).

Selain itu, tayar kereta ini datang dengan saiz yang berbeza iaitu 15 inci untuk tayar hadapan, manakala 16 inci untuk tayar belakang.

Interior Honda S660

Di bahagian dalam, S660 dibekalkan dengan dua tempat duduk
semi bucket
 khas dari Modulo X yang berwarna merah. Kemasan merah ini juga boleh dijumpai pada bahagian papan pemuka, karpet kaki, stereng dan tuil brek tangan.

Meskipun kereta ini bersaiz kecil, namun ruangan dalamannya tidaklah terlalu sempit, memandangkan ia hanya memuatkan 2 tempat duduk sahaja. Model 2019 ini turut hadir bersama paparan infotainment bersaiz kecil manakala meternya masih menggunakan gabungan meter analog dan digital.

Pengalaman Pemanduan Honda S660

Setelah diberi peluang untuk memandu Honda S660 untuk masa yang singkat, ada beberapa perkara yang boleh disimpulkan berkenaan pengalaman pemanduan kereta ini.

Ada mod pemanduan (Sport, Normal)

Bunyi
turbo whistle
 yang menggiurkan

Diberikan penyerap hentak yang boleh dilaraskan kepada 5 peringkat

Kuasa enjin yang mencukupi untuk kereta seberat 830-850 kg

Sistem brek yang lebih baik dengan cakera yang ditebuk dan dipadankan dengan pad brek berprestasi.

Saiz yang kecil memudahkan pergerakan di jalan yang sempit serta mudah untuk mencari kawasan letak kereta

Namun oleh kerana saiznya yang kecil, agak sukar untuk anda melihat keadaan trafik di hadapan serta sekeliling anda sekiranya kereta ini diapit oleh kenderaan yang jauh lebih besar di sekelilingnya

Profil kereta yang rendah juga membuatkan aksi melalui selekoh pada kelajuan tinggi lebih selesa dan yakin.

Dengan jarak roda yang begitu kecil dan keseimbangan berat yang sangat jitu, pengendalian S660 yang mengagumkan dipertingkatkan lagi dengan ciri vektor tork berasaskan brek yang dipanggil
Agile handling Assist
 oleh Honda.

Praktikaliti Honda S660

Dari segi praktikaliti, tidak banyak yang ditawarkan oleh model ini kerana ia dihasilkan untuk pembeli menikmati pengalaman pemanduan kereta Kei yang menyeronokkan. Tiada ruang simpanan di bahagian but belakang kerana ia menempatkan enjin kereta.

Terdapat satu ruang simpanan kecil disediakan di but hadapan, tapi ruangan itu hanya dikhaskan untuk menyimpan bumbung S660 yang telah ditanggalkan. Tidak mustahil untuk menyimpan barang lain di situ, Cuma anda perlu kena kekalkan bumbung atau cabut bumbung dan tinggal di rumah (tidak digalakkan).

Ciri Keselamatan Honda S660

4 beg udara keselamatan

ABS

TRC

EBD

Kamera undur

Harga Honda S660 (Recond)

Model Recon bagi Honda S660 ini boleh di dapati di
Carlist.my
 dari RM145,000 sehingga RM186,000. Untuk model S660 Modulo X yang kami terima, harganya dijual pada RM184,000.

Honda S660 Untuk Siapa?

Sebelum anda membeli kereta ini, penting untuk anda tahu apa tujuan kereta ini dihasilkan. Memandangkan ianya kereta sports 2-tempat duduk yang bersaiz kecil tanpa sebarang ruang simpanan, Honda S660 ini lebih sesuai bagi mereka yang mencari kereta kedua atau kereta untuk digunakan pada hari minggu.

Jadi adakah golongan lepasan universiti memiliki kereta ini? Mestilah boleh! Tapi jika ditanya sama ada sesuai atau tidak, mungkin tidak berapa sesuai jika kereta ini dijadikan kereta pertama untuk digunakan secara harian. Dengan harga kereta ini, banyak kereta yang lebih baik dan praktikal boleh dibeli. Tapi kalau ada duit, siapa boleh halang?


JPJ Reminds The Public To Not Wait Till The Very Last Second To Renew Their Road Tax And Licenses

JPJ has given a friendly reminder to the public to update all that is necessary to be road legal by January 1, 2022.

After providing another
postponement until December 31
 to renew road tax and driving licenses for those who still have not done so, the Road Transport Department (JPJ) is now giving a 'friendly reminder' to road users that their time is nearly up and that they do all that is necessary to be
fully legal on the road
.

As a reminder, to facilitate the many renewals of LKM and LMM, JPJ Office Counters (except UTC) throughout Malaysia will also be operating during break time (1.00 - 2.00 PM), so that users can easily renew their road tax and licenses.

To further help the situation, starting November 26, 2021, selected locations of JPJ Office Counters will also operate on weekends. JPJ also advises the public to use other service channels provided by JPJ such as JPJ Kiosk, JPJ Mobile Counter, and LKM Renewal at PUSPAKOM Inspection Centers throughout the country.

For those who prefer to
do it online
, members of the public can make full use of online services through the mySIKAP JPJ portal (https://public.jpj.gov.my), or through JPJ's strategic partners such as Pos Malaysia Berhad, and MyEG.


Budget 2016: Plans to Further Upgrade and Expand LRT and MRT Network

As a pledge to improve the level of urban public transportation, the government will continue their plan of upgrading and expanding the MRT-LRT network, as well as improve the Rapid Transit bus services in the Klang Valley and Kota Kinabalu.
Outlined in the tabling of the 2016 Budget, the government says that will begin expansion projects on the MRT and LRT rail network in the second quarter of 2016. These include the MRT II project which will encompass Sungai Buluh – Serdang – Putrajaya, and the LRT III project that will stretch from Bandar Utama – Damansara – Johan Setia.
The MRT II project will be built at a cost of RM28 billion, and when completed in 2022, it will stretch 52km and expected to benefit 2 million residents. The LRT III project on the other hand comprises of a 36km line, serve 2 million residents, and costs RM10 billion to construct, with construction expected to finish in 2020.
During the tabling of the 2016 Budget, Prime Minister Najib Razak brought up the latest updates in the construction of the LRT and MRT lines. The 18.1km long LRT Ampang line will be operational by March 2016, whereas the 17.4km LRT line from Kelana Jaya to Putra Heights will be operational in the middle of 2016, and the MRT line from Sungai Buluh to Semantan will be ready by December 2016. The second phase of the rail network on the 51km Semantan to Kajang line will be completed in the middle of 2017, at a cost of RM32 billion.
On top of that, the government will be spending more than RM1.5 billion on the Rapid Transit buses between Kuala Lumpur and Klang, and nearly RM1 billion on the Rapid Transit buses in Kota Kinabalu.


What The Heck is A Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace?

Familiar to many worldwide but alien to us Malaysians, Volkswagen is finally launching the Tiguan Allspace in Malaysia.

After a long hiatus of not launching any new cars (facelifts aside), Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia is finally launching four new whips today, in the form of the
Passat
 R-Line,
Arteon
 R-Line as well as the unfamiliar Tiguan Allspace R-Line and Tiguan Allspace Highline.

The Passat R-Line will be another variant in the Passat Line-up while the Arteon R-Line is coupe looking saloon that we have all been waiting since its teaser way back in mid-2019. The surprising news is the Tiguan Allspace, a longer bodied Tiguan which can house seven people inside.

The Tiguan Allspace is not actually a new car as it made its first debut back in 2017 at the Detroit Motorshow. It went on sale in Europe at the back end of 2017 and has helped the
Tiguan
 to become Volkswagen's best selling car to date.

Essentially, the Tiguan Allspace is a stretched-out version of the popular SUV. It is 215mm longer, which makes space for the additional two seats at the very rear. The distinguishable differences between the Tiguan and the Tiguan Allspace are the two extra seats and the extra-long rear doors. Apart from that, it is all regular Tiguan. The total volume of cargo space with all seats folded down has also grown to 1770 litres oppose to the regular Tiguan's 1,615 litres.

Worldwide, the Tiguan Allspace can be had in many different powertrains, but we expect the same 1.4-litre turbocharged TSI engine with 148hp and 250nm of torque from the regular Tiguan to power the Allspace. We also predict that the Tiguan Allspace to mate its engine with the familiar 6-speed DSG (wet) that we all have come to know.

We also expect the Allspace to be a CKD vehicle just like the current regular Tiguan which is assembled in Pekan, Pahang. All fancy types of equipment such as LED headlights, fully digital Active Info Display (speedo cluster) and a 9.2-inch Discover Pro head unit will most likely be similar to its sibling.

Do we actually need a bigger Tiguan? As a family man who can use some extra seats in cars, I would say yes. It would also help with those who have an active lifestyle such as cyclists. The practicality and usage of a slightly bigger Tiguan is pretty much endless, and since Volkswagen did not make it grow bigger sideways, it should still be able to manoeuvre around the city quite easily.

This Tiguan Allspace follows the popular footsteps of adding a couple more seats in a midsize SUV like the Nissan X-Trail, Mazda CX-8 and the Peugeot 5008. Luckily Volkswagen was clever enough to extend the length of the car to help with the comfort situation.

If you would like to have a look at the Allspace as well as the other cars that Volkswagen are launching, you can head on to Volkswagen's Tour which takes place from August 12 to 16 at 1 Utama Shopping Centre.

Yay or nay for the Allspace? Let us know what you think.


PDRM To Use New Plate Scanners To Detect Traffic Offenders By August

The Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) will implement a new Automated Number Plate Recognition system come August, reports
FMT.
Costing the government some RM30 million, Bukit Aman Traffic Police officer, Supt Zulkefly Yahya told reporters at the 2015 Foreign National Outstanding Summonses Operation in Johor Baru that at least 20 scanners will be bought for use at first, for use at nine entry points at national borders in its first phase.
He continued, “The scanners using US technology will be widely used in states bordering neighbouring countries, including tracking down foreign nationals with outstanding traffic summonses.”
The system will also allow PDRM to detect stolen vehicles that attempt border crossing.
With the new system implemented, Zulkefly also iterated that action can be taken immediately against any offenders.
An on-going operated that began last Friday at various entry locations in Johor Baru has since managed to detect 4,200 Singaporean motorists with outstanding summonses – the majority of them are believed to be for speeding.


Volvo Chief Håkan Samuelsson Wins Award From German Magazine

The Golden Steering Wheel is one of those non traditional automotive awards- but one that's just as coveted by members of the automotive community. It's presented by the Bild Group, known mostly for their AutoBild magazine. This year, the award goes to Håkan Samuelsson- the president and chief executive of Volvo Cars. Since he took helm of the company back in 2012, it has seen record sales and profits for many years in a row- not least in part due to their excellent model lineup.
The award was presented to him on account of him being the best performing manager in the car industry this year. It was also swayed largely in part due to Volvo's move towards electrification and the launch of the Polestar performance arm. Samuelsson is credited for maintaining profitability and improving sales greatly following the takeover by Geely Holding in 2010.
The future is bright for Volvo Cars, with Samuelsson guiding it over the next few years. Even if he is to be replaced, the plans he has put in place are ambitious and necessary- from 2019 every Volvo model will have an electric motor (whether in hybrid or pure electric vehicle form), and Polestar itself is receiving a EUR 640 million (RM 3.12 billion) investment to get it off the ground.


Cash Bonus Up to RM10,000 for Selected Mitsubishi Models

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM), the official distributor of Mitsubishi vehicles in Malaysia is offering attractive promotions with bonus up to RM10, 000 for selected Mitsubishi models from now until 31 December 2016.
While customers who choose the new Triton with MIVEC Turbo Diesel engine get to enjoy bonus up to RM9, 000, cash bonus for other new Triton variants is as follows:
No
Model/Variant
Cash Bonus
OTR Price without insurance GST inclusive (RM) in Peninsular Malaysia
1
Triton VGT Adventure X
RM 2,000
RM 125,005
2
Triton VGT Adventure
RM 4,000
RM 118,198
3
Triton VGT AT
RM 8,000
RM 109,446
4
Triton VGT MT
RM 4,000
RM 102,619
5
Triton MT
RM 9,000
RM 88,997
6
Triton Quest
RM 6,000
RM 73,438
Customers who choose the ASX Compact SUV get to enjoy bonus up to RM10, 000 for selected variants and 5-Years warranty with unlimited mileage. The award-winning compact SUV is available for a starting price of RM 105,744.31 onwards with the ASX 2WD GL. The ASX 2WD is priced at RM 115,468.71 and the ASX 4WD is priced at RM 129,010.43.
Customers who choose the Pajero Sport VGT on the other hand will enjoy bonus up to RM5, 000. The Pajero Sport VGT is priced at RM 179,716.92.
Last but not least, customers who choose the eco-sedan Mitsubishi Attrage GS will enjoy bonus up to RM12, 000. While customers who choose the Attrage GL will enjoy cash bonus up to RM8, 500. The Mitsubishi Attrage is priced at 75,250.33 and 75,655.33 for the Attrage GS and GL respectively.
That’s not all, from 1-30 November 2016; Mitsubishi owners will also enjoy discounts up to 20% for service additives such as antibacterial air freshener, engine oil treatment, engine flush, fuel system cleaner, diesel fuel system cleaner and evaporator cleaner.
Looking for a Mitsubishi? Find one now at
Carlist.my


Volvo Promises To End Clutter Issues In The New All-New XC40

One of the biggest problems faced by compact SUV drivers around the globe is the lack of suitable and functional storage space inside their vehicles. Although many are adjusting with whatever room there is, things are often unorganised.
However, Volvo Cars has declared that it has found a solution to this issue in its upcoming small SUV – the XC40.
“As we spoke to people about how and where they store the things they carry with them daily, it was quite clear that most of today’s cars are falling short in this area. Phones slide around in the mid-console, takeaway bags are at constant risk of falling over and people fumble behind the wheel as they try to get service cards out of their wallets. We set out to solve these and many other issues we encountered,” says Louiza Atcheba, Model Brand Manager for the 40 Series at Volvo Cars.
So, in order to provide better storage space in the doors of the new XC40, Volvo designers chose a radical new approach of removing the speakers from the door, and developed a world-first, air-ventilated dashboard-mounted sub-woofer, clearing enough storage in the door compartment for a laptop and a tablet, or a couple of water bottles.
They also designed the centre console tunnel with specific areas to store coins, cards, charging cables, and even tissues. There will be space for wireless charging for phones as well.
“A lot we have done with the XC40 is based on extensive consumer insight. With the XC40, we declare the end of clutter, making sure that everything is within arms-reach but also out of sight. It’s about clearing the clutter so you can clear your mind,” said Atcheba.
As interesting as it sounds, we have not seen the cabin of the XC40 as the company has yet to reveal any visuals of the production version of the SUV.
Set to be revealed very soon, the XC40, which is based on Volvo's all-new CMA platform for small cars, will complete the company’s SUV line-up which currently comprises the XC90 and the mid-sized XC60.


Ford Mustang Habis Minyak, Berhenti Di Tengah Jalan Demi Konten TikTok

Di Malaysia,
Ford Mustang
 memang sinonim dengan gelaran kereta-kereta sifu saham serta MLM. Baru-baru ini, nama Mustang ini kembali tular setelah sekumpulan geng Mustang bertindak memberhentikan ketiga-tiga Mustang mereka di tengah jalan yang sibuk demi secebis konten di TikTok.

Berdasarkan sebuah video berdurasi 41 saat yang tular di Tiktok, seorang
influencer
 tempatan dilihat sedang cuba berdiri di sebelah kereta ‘mahal’ miliknya bersama sebotol minyak enjin Petron Blaze Racing ditangannya.

Mungkin botol tersebut telah diisi dengan
minyak petrol
, pemuda terbabit cuba untuk mengisi minyak (tanpa menggunakan corong) ke dalam lubang minyak Mustang tersebut sebelum disapa oleh perakam video, juga dipercayai rakannya.

Ketika ditanya apa yang berlaku, pemandu Mustang berkenaan berkata beliau sudah kehabisan duit pada bulan ini kerana terpaksa membayar harga cukai jalan untuk kereta berkenaan yang berharga RM20,000.

“Malulah kalau beli Mustang tapi minyak habis, baik sewa kereta di ****,” kata individu yang merakam video terbabit.

Walau bagaimanapun, video tersebut dikecam kerana ia kelihatan sebagai sebuah iklan pemasaran untuk mempromosikan bisnes kereta sewa mewah. Tambahan pula, petrol atau
minyak enjin
 yang dipegang lelaki terbabit langsung tidak dituang ke dalam tangki kereta tersebut.

Tindakan berhenti di jalan yang sibuk hanya untuk menghasilkan sebuah video viral di media sosial amatlah tidak padan dengan risiko yang dihadapi. Kalau teringin sangat mahu viral, ingatlah bahawa gambar dan video mangsa kemalangan ngeri pun boleh tersebar dan tular dengan laju di media sosial.

Jika kereta tersebut rosak sekalipun, mereka boleh meminta bantuan orang ramai untuk menolak kereta ke tepi dahulu supaya tidak mengganggu kelancaran trafik sebelum merakam video TikTok di tengah jalan.

Orang ramai telah meminta pihak polis dan
JPJ
 untuk mengambil tindakan selanjutnya kepada pemandu dan geng Mustang terbabit. Malah pihak Lembaga Hasil Dalam Negeri (LHDN) turut digesa supaya memeriksa sama ada
influencer
 berkenaan membayar cukai atau tidak.

Kami faham bahawa telefon pintar dan media sosial adalah segala-galanya buat masa ini tapi jika tindakan anda membahayakan nyawa diri sendiri dan orang lain demi sebuah video dengan harapan ia tular di media sosial, pasti ada neraka khas untuk anda.


iCarData: The Best Time To Buy/Sell A (L33) Nissan Teana 2.0L XL

Having recently sampled the Proton Saga 35th Anniversary Edition, I was humbled at how far our Malaysian “kereta rakyat” has come, 35 years is no easy feat, and it remains as popular as ever.

Just to give you some context, the hallowed BMW 3 Series and Volkswagen Golf nameplates – both worldwide sellers; are just over 40 years old – the Saga is not too far behind.

The sedan body style has been relevant to most car buyers for the better part of half a century. The engine upfront, big space for passengers in the middle, and a sizeable boot to carry stuff at the back – and truth be told, there’s little else that a car needs to do. However, with the advent of the modern SUV and “lifestyle” motivated purchases – SUVs are quickly taking over.

We see this more than in the C- and D-Segment; everything from the Toyota Altis and Honda Accord has suffered dwindling popularity due to the rise of cars like the Toyota CH-R and Honda CR-V. However, in my opinion, just because there are more SUVs now, doesn’t mean sedans are not great.

Unless you have a young family with a gazillion things to carry for you child(ren) every time you go to the mall, you’d be better off with an easier to park, better to drive, and just as comfortable sedan. Moreover, the traditional D-Segment sedan has always been the perfect synthesis of style, comfort, premium feel and superb driving dynamics. Within the D-Segment, the Accord and Camry have the most illustrious stories of the lot, however, newer challengers from Mazda and Nissan have all but equaled the playing field.

Overview

In this report, we will be looking at the (L33) Nissan Teana to see just how it’s fared over the years using the resources of iCarData.

Our in-house developed
iCarData
, collates data and by filtering our search for listings of a particular model throughout the measured timeframe, we are able to track with substantial accuracy the rates of depreciation of any vehicle as they were featured in the period.

Note that, up to now, there has been no other service that collates such a wide array of data sets to offer prudent fiscal advice on the right time to buy or sell a car; as well as track intrinsic depreciation rates of any vehicle on sale in Malaysia.

Launched in 2014, the L33 Nissan Teana – or the Teana itself – is the spiritual successor of the Nissan Cefiro, which proved a popular alternative to the contemporary Honda Accord and Toyota Camry models. The Malaysian market was offered the Cefiro across three generations – starting with the “A31” in the late-80s right though through to the third-generation “A33” which remained on sale until 2008.

From then on – the Teana (in its second-generation) – took on the mantle of Nissan’s D-Segment challenger; building itself a steady reputation of having a plush interior, steadfast reliability, and serene driving experience.

The L33 Teana brought about improvements in design crucially, with the older model showing its age earlier than expected, the svelte proportions of the L33 gave it far more desirability and style. The L33 Teana also introduced better safety equipment across the range, such as standard fit 6-airbags, ABS with EBD, and stability control.

Engine choices ranged from the (MR20DE) 2.0-litre which outputs 136 PS and 190 Nm at 4,400 rpm, and the more powerful (QR25DE) with twin variable valve timing which delivers a stout 173 PS at 6,000 rpm and 234 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. In both cases, the engines are mated to a CVT-type automatic sending power to the front wheels.

The Teana was offered in three variants – the 2.0L ‘XE’, 2.0L ‘XL’, and 2.5L ‘XV’. In this report, we will be covering the volume seller 2.0L XL variant. Its competitive sub-RM150k price tag put it right beside the popular offerings of the Accord and Camry and thus offers the most conclusive data points across the used car marketplace.

The Teana XL variant offered additional features such as powered-adjustable front seats, front parking sensors, Bluetooth connectivity, and a reverse camera.

Here’s a snapshot of the Nissan Teana’s market presence in Malaysia:

June 2014: L33 Nissan Teana officially launched. 2.0L XE priced at RM139,800, XL for RM149,800 and 2.5L XV at RM169,900.

December 2016: Teana Nissan Performance Package introduced. Two packages; Nismo Aero Package for an additional RM6k and the Nismo Performance Package (sport springs and wheel and tyre package) which carries a RM16,960 premium over the standard car. Packages offered for all three variants.

Specifications of the 2014 (L33) Nissan Teana 2.0L XL CVT

Engine: 2.0-litre (MR20DE) inline-four naturally-aspirated, petrol

Power: 134 hp @ 5,600 rpm

Torque: 190 Nm @ 4,400

Transmission: CVT-type automatic, FWD

Safety: Six airbags, ABS with EBD, Stability Control

Origin: Locally assembled in Serendah, Selangor

Price: RM149,800 – June 2014 launch (OTR with insurance)

We have taken into account the following to keep our numbers accurate and representative.

Vehicle variant: (L33) 2014 Nissan Teana 2.0 XL CVT automatic, delivered between July and Dec 2014.

Depreciation is calculated using the original list price of RM149,800.

Depreciation percentage does not take into account special/ seasonal offers or rebates on the original selling price.

Notwithstanding that, depreciation for other variants may differ, in particular, the 2.5L XV range-topping variant.

And the graphical analysis below:

Blue line: Average selling price (RM) by year

Grey line: Cumulative depreciation (RM) by year

Orange line: Retained value percentage by year

Conclusion

Regardless of its popularity and reputation, the Teana suffers from greater depreciation when compared to its rivals, the Accord and Camry. While those two D-Segmenters are not spared from the steep first and second-year depreciation, their used value tends to stabilise in the third to fifth years respectively.

This leads us to believe that the increased depreciation rates of the Teana are not so much representative of its overall value, rather the drop in demand and buyer sentiment over time.

This has more to do with the lack of product management to keep customers interested and the product energized within the market. When we compare the sales and marketing activities of both Honda and Toyota with their respective models, there's far more to keep buyers excited about than the Nissan over the lifespan of the model.

in the case of the L33 Teana, besides the Nismo packages that were offered in 2016, little was done in terms of promotional activities. Other factors also include competitor product launches from other less mainstream brands such as Mazda and Volkswagen.

In terms of resale value, where the Teana loses out slightly is in the second to fourth years respectively. Despite its rather normal 15 percent depreciation in the first year, it is the continued, circa 10 percent year-on-year depreciation that drops the Teana's price considerably thereafter.

With that said, the intersection point between cumulative depreciation and retained value sum intersect in the fourth year, after which, the gradient of the graph does start to reduce.

This pretty much means buyers who snap a four-year old Teana are getting it at pretty much half of the new car price, which is a bargain considering the quality of the product they're getting.

And as for sellers, experience would lead us to believe that they should hold off the sale of their cars until the sixth-year, when depreciation rates have slowed and they can take their time to find a suitable buyer.

For some great deals on the (L33) Nissan Teana, click
here
.

If you're looking to sell your Nissan Teana, we have two solutions for you too. List in on carlist.my or better still use
Carlist Bid
 where we remove all the hassle of selling your car for you as you get searching for your next upgrade.

Which make/ model would you like us to research next? Let us know in the comments.


The 2020 Kia Seltos Is Now Open For Booking

It’s the newest kid on the block, and it has definitely garnered a lot of attention – the 2020 Kia Seltos is closer than ever for Malaysians.

Picking a compact crossover is about to get a lot harder with the imminent launch of the Kia Seltos in the coming weeks or months. It first popped up on their website back in April, but it recently made an appearance in GT-Line trim at a Kia Red Cube in Kuala Lumpur.

On a
Kia Seltos Malaysia Facebook page
, a number of Kia salesmen have posted their contact details as the car is now available for booking. There are two variants on offer – the EX, and the aforementioned GT-Line – and both will be powered by the same 1.6-litre petrol engine that we’ve come to know from various Kia models.

The official launch date according to Kia Malaysia is sometime next month, but in this climate it can be hard to tell as COVID-19 cases rise and fall. If you’re eager to see the car in person, you could always try your luck with contacting your nearest Kia dealership to see if there’s one present.

To find out more about the Kia Seltos, click
here
!


2017 Suzuki S-Cross Facelift Previewed, Japan Debut In July

Suzuki has previewed the upcoming S-Cross, set to be released in Japan on 6 July. Oddly enough, the Suzuki S-Cross is built in Hungary, and even for models sold in Japan, the S-Cross will be imported from Hungary, just like the pre-facelift model.
Outside, the updated 2017 Suzuki S-Cross now receives LED headlights, a redesigned front bumper with a large vertical chrome grille and a revised front bonnet. The sides are adorned by new 17-inch alloy wheels. As for the rear end, the tail lights are now LED-illuminated. Elsewhere, ground clearance have been increased by 20 mm to 185 mm.
Changes to the interior are limited to the piano black finish on the dashboard and improved build quality.
Under the hood, Suzuki has dropped the pre-facelift's CVT, opting for a six-speed automatic transmission. The transmission is mated to Suzuki's 1.6-litre VVT four-cylinder petrol engine. This in turn has worsened the fuel economy under the JC08 test cycle, as the Suzuki S-Cross now returns 16.2 km/L for the 2WD model and 15 km/L for the 4WD model, dropping from 18.1 km/L and 17.2 km/L respectively.
Two new colours are offered, Sphere Blue Pearl and Energetic Red Pearl. The two new colours will join black and pearl white as colour options for the new S-Cross.


Honda Malaysia Reclaims Sepang 1000km Title

The Honda Malaysia Racing Team (HMRT) took the chequered flag at the Sepang 1000km (S1k) Race last weekend as professional HMRT drivers Aaron Lim and Farriz Fauzy cruised to victory with their Honda City. HMRT was able to complete the 181-lap endurance race in 8 hours 42 minutes, and finished a full lap ahead of the second-place team.
The team’s win is a return to form where HMRT won their first Sepang 1000km title in 2013 with a race-prepared Honda Jazz. That being said, the Proton R3 team came back stronger last year, taking the title win and second place, with HMRT finishing third and fourth behind the R3 team.
For this year’s challenge, HMRT focused on making their race car faster as well as improving its suspension. As such the team managed to increase the City’s power output from 128hp – it was producing in last year’s car – to 140hp.
To ensure few pit stops over the course of the 1,000km endurance race, the team tuned the suspension for longer tyre sustenance, and to match the engine’s increased power output.
“Apart from the technical strategy, the team also perfected their pit stop tactics,” said HMRT team director, Akkbar Danial. “Frequencies of training for the crew were increased and all members were given theoretical and practical classes of how the machines works and the pit rules.”
Akkbar also pointed out that of the team’s 36 members, 20 of them were new to the team this year. Their participation in the team this year Honda Malaysia has effectively increased the number of Honda Malaysia associates with motorsports-related skills.
“Over the years, HMRT has proven to be an ideal platform to train and build up skills of Honda associates while honing their capabilities in the motorsports arena. Enhancing the skills of Honda associates has always been a core objective at HMRT.” Added Akkbar.


New Honda Jade RS Goes On Sale In Japan: 1.5-Litre VTEC Turbo Six-Seater MPV

In February, the Japanese-market
Honda Jade went on sale in its country of origin
 packing a 1.5-litre i-DCD (Intelligent Dual Clutch Drive) petrol-electric hybrid powertrain paired with a seven-speed dual clutch transmission. Now,
Honda
 have introduced a new addition to the Jade line-up, powered by the brand’s new 1.5-litre direct injection VTEC turbocharged engine, dubbing the car the Honda Jade RS.

Aside from the new engine, the powertrain in the RS version replaces the dual-clutch transmission with a seven-speed CVT that can be operated with paddle shifters and the hybrid system has been removed. This means that the Jade RS has a claimed fuel economy of 18km/litre compared to the non-RS’ 25.0km/litre.

Exterior changes to mark it as the Jade RS include a different mesh-type front grille which features the ‘RS’ emblem. Everything else including the chrome fog light surrounds, outer door handle, tailgate molding, and 17-inch aluminum wheels are retained.

The six-seat arrangement remains here as well, available in black and brown depending on the choice between two interior colours. Red stitching can be found on the leather-wrapped steering wheel while the pedals adopt a sportier design.

Being the RS version of the Jade, both the front and rear suspensions have been increased rigidity by 15% and 20% respectively, as compared to the hybrid version. The springs and dampers themselves have also been retuned with specific settings to deliver a sporty feel. Add to this the Agile Handling Assist (AHA) electronic control system that utilises brake vectoring to improve corner traceability while a tunnel brace was added as a reinforcement member to the underfloor panel to enhance the rigidity of floor area.

The Honda Jade RS will go on sale in the Japanese market only as of now, priced at 2,530,000 yen (RM75,299).


COMOS EV Car-Sharing Programme Kicks Off On May 16, Public Registration Now Open

The
Cohesive Mobility Solution
 electric vehicle (EV) car-sharing programme or better known in short as COMOS will officially begin its services on May 16, 2015. However, public registration has already begun with a promotional offer currently in place, offering a year’s membership at only RM50 should you sign up now.
Regular membership fees are as follows:
Yearly: RM300
Monthly: RM50
Weekly: RM25
Keep in mind that the membership fees are not inclusive of usage fees which are charged on a timed block basis – RM8 for 15 minutes of usage, with a minimum usage of 30 minutes.
As for the EV cars on offer, CMS Consortium Ecotour Sdn Bhd’s fleet currently includes 16
Renault
 Zoes. The company plans to expand not just the size of its fleet to 1,000 vehicles by 2020 but also its coverage to outside the Klang Valley in other urban centres.
Currently, eight COMOS stations in these locations offer the EV cars for rental:
LRT Kelana Jaya
LRT Asia Jaya
LRT Universiti
LRT Bangsar
Monorail Medan Tuanku
Lorong P. Ramlee
Jalan Munshi Abdullah
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia KL Campus
How Does It Work?
Firstly, users will need to register for a membership with COMOS, providing credit card details in the process. Once they have completed the registration, users will then obtain a membership card from any of the 10 COMOS outlets. The membership card itself doubles as a car key to use the EV cars.
In order to make bookings, users will have to pay for any of the membership periods as mentioned above. After then, users can make bookings via a smartphone app or at the
COMOS website
. A confirmation SMS will be sent to the user with the assigned EV and its registration details.
Next, users can proceed to the designated COMOS station to pick up the car once the rental booking is confirmed. Once the user has located the assigned EV vehicle, the will need to tap the membership card on the scanner located at the bottom-right of the car’s windscreen, unplug the charger, and answer key in the user pin code into the overhead information screen. Once that is done, you’re good to go.
Once the user is ready to return the car, simply return the car the any of the mentioned COMOS stations, plug the charging cable back into the car and that’s it. It is important to plug the charging cable back because only then will the billing stop.
For a better understanding, COMOS has prepared this how-to video which you can view here:


VIDEO: Road-Side Snatch Thief Caught In The Act In Taiping

Yet another road-side snatch thief has been caught in the act by a driver and his dash-cam, this time in Taiping, yesterday (July 1
st
, 2015). This video was first spotted on the
Malaysian Crime Awareness Campaign FB page
.
An elderly lady, walking along a street with a child alongside her is tailed by the thief for a few moments, who then notices an opportunity, and strikes.
As he sprints way, a gentleman driving behind captures the whole event on his dash-cam, and attempts to pursue the thief, who then makes off into an alley where the car cannot follow.
This is yet another reminder of the
types of crimes Malaysians face when on the road
, be it in a car, or simply walking along a street.
Please be careful, folks.

Harrowing snatch theft incident
Harrowing snatch theft incident for an elderly ladyIncident 1st July 2015, Time : 4:18pmLocation : In front of KFC in Taiping. Snatch theft incident happened on Wednesday evening (1st July 2015) around 4:18pm where an elderly lady became a victim of a snatch thief. The thief in red t-shirt, approached the elderly lady from the back walking briskly towards her and snatch something from her hand and ran into the alley. The person who recorded the incident gave a quick chase but was unable to pursue the thief as he was blocked by a white car and a motorcycle on both side of the lane.
Posted by
Malaysian Crime Awareness Campaign
 on Wednesday, 1 July 2015

Here’s more news about road-related dangers, that we hope will help keep you more aware and safe:
6 Criminal Acts To Be Wary Of On Malaysian Roads
VIDEO: Malaysian Car Thief Demonstrates How Easy It Is To Steal Your Car
7 Dastardly Driving Habits Of The Average Malaysian Driver
VIDEO: Another Road Rage Bully Caught On Camera Near Summit USJ
Subang Businessman Has Two Luxury Cars Worth RM800k Stolen & Returned In One Day


IAA 2021: Microlino 2.0 Is The Tiny EV Pod We Didn't Know We Wanted

“This is not a car”, exclaims the makers of this tiny BMW Isetta-aping EV, the Microlino. But it kind of is, which is why this version ‘2.0’ is being showed off to crowds at the
2021 IAA in Munich
.

This pocket-sized two-seater
urban-centric EV
 certainly fits the bill of a short range zero emissions runabout, and the company behind it, Micro Mobility Systems AG, is solely focusing on affordable solutions to personal transportation in densely populated areas.

As you can probably guess, there is only a single front-facing door to access the cozy cabin, revealing side-by-side seating for a driver and a single passenger. There is also a small cargo area with a snug 2.47 square metres of space.

Available in a choice of three flavours, the car features either a 6kWh battery in ‘Urban’ spec, a ‘Dolce’ with 10.5kWh, or a ‘Competizione’ with 14kWh, respectively able to squeeze 97km, 175km, or 230km of range while spinning its standard single 56hp electric motor.

We reckon there won’t be any Microlinos blasting down the Autobahn with its quoted top speed of 90km/h, but it’s certainly enough to keep up with city traffic and even the odd highway. Still, one does wonder how safe such a small vehicle is if a collision were to happen with a much bulkier moving object. Being such as small vehicle, it surely makes it easy to miss at a glance.

That said, the good news is that its small battery capacity does make charging a breeze. The Microlino needs just 4 hours to charge from flat to full using just a standard wall socket. Welcome to the future!

Prices have yet to be finalised, but expect it to cost far less than your average
Tesla Model 3
. Micro Mobility Systems has been involved with this project for years now with the Microlino taking the form of several prototypes before being publicly unveiled.

If all goes to plan, they intend for production to start later this year through newly established Italian subsidiary Mirolino Italia. Ironically, becoming an automaker in that traditional sense was never their end goal, but the company realised that bringing such a product to market while controlling quality and cost required such direct intervention.

So far, Micro Mobility Systems say that they expect an average production volume of 7,500 units a year with some 24,000 reservations already in hand. Naturally, the European market will be catered to first, starting with eco-fanatical Switzerland, before expanding to other EU countries.

Call it either a ‘bubble car’ or a ‘pod EV’, but the Microlino 2.0 is being positioned as a launchpad for the small Swiss-based enterprise. Besides this, they’re also preparing a 3-wheel scooter called the Microletta.


LEAKED: All-New Toyota Fortuner Shows Its Sharper Front End

Leaked images of the next-generation
Toyota

Fortuner
 have made their way online courtesy of
Fly-Wheel
,
Motorids
, and
Headlightmag
 and it depicts a significant restyling of the SUV’s exterior.

Resting on the Toyota New Global Acrchitecture (TNGA) platform that also underpins the upcoming Toyota Innova that was
also leaked earlier
, as well as the Toyota Hilux
spied here
.

From what we can see, the all-new Fortuner gets a much pronounced front-end with sharper-looking headlights and the three-slate grille is now reduced to just two. Chrome accents now surround the fog lamps as well.

Moving along the sides, the D-pillars are also different with a little kink just behind the rear doors that appears to be a reworked roof height.

As a comparision, this is how the current Toyota Fortuner sold here looks like:

Powertrain options should include petrol and diesel options mated to either a manual and automatic gearbox.

Stay tuned for more updates.


2017 Peugeot 308 Facelift Leaked Ahead of Frankfurt

The Peugeot 308 is a car that matured vastly during its transition from the previous to current generation, and with that came a host of styling changes, both outside and inside. With that much effort put into making such a well-rounded product, it's no surprised that these leaked photos of the facelift has very little to add to the already impressive 308.
If these photos are official, the changes in detail we can pick up are few and far between. The standard redesigned front bumper adds a touch of aggression with a slightly sharper front grille that's reminiscent of the 208 GTi.
On the inside, there are hardly any changes either- but once again, the current generation 308 has a fairly impressive interior as it is. There's still a centrally mounted touch screen entertainment system that's seamlessly integrated into the dashboard and a range of controls below.
Judging from some of the photos of specifications, there should also be an increase in safety systems (as evidenced by this photo of a blind spot monitoring system). In any case, we'll be seeing the real model when it's unveiled at Frankfurt in September. For now, you can read our quick review of the Peugeot 308 THP in its current form
here,
 and read about its launch
here
.


BMW Is Revamping Its Munich Plant As The Brand Gears Up For An Electrifying Future

In preparation for the production of the
fully-electric BMW i4
, BMW Group Plant Munich will pause vehicle production for six weeks this summer.

Between 23rd July and 7th September, No cars will be produced in the birthplace of BMW as the plant production to implement numerous structural and remodelling measures to accommodate the production of the fully-electric BMW i4, which is slated to start next year takes place.

BMW Munich plant director Robert Engelhorn added, “We are gearing up our Munich plant for the future. Once the remodelling is finished, we will be able to produce vehicles with diesel, petrol and hybrid drive trains, as well as the fully-electric BMW i4, all on the same line. This will allow us to respond flexibly to customer demand,”

The new plant updates are required to accommodate the installation and integration of the i4’s high-voltage battery, which is installed from below, as opposed to being fitted together with the platform as other battery electric vehicles are. Therefore, a new and separate battery assembly will be set up for this within the vehicle assembly line.

The high-voltage battery’s placement in the car also means that body construction systems will need to be revamped – especially the machinery involved in building the rear structure of the vehicle – which will need to be newly built. However, about 90 percent of the existing production systems used in the body shop can be integrated and enabled for future BMW i4 production.

As well as installing new systems, existing production equipment will also have to be converted so the BMW 3 Series Sedan and BMW 3 Series Touring – both with combustion engines and hybrid drivetrains, the new BMW M3 and the fully-electric BMW i4 can all be produced on the same line.

Introduced in early March, the i4 is envisioned as full-electric luxury fastback (or Gran Coupe as BMW like to call it) powered by the company’s in-house developed fifth-generation eDrive technology. The high-voltage battery combines the latest battery cell technology, for a slim, power-dense battery which produces about 80 kWh of energy, giving the i4 a range of up to 600 km (WLTP cycle).

However, if you thought the i4 was just another electric car, think again, the electric motor developed for the BMW i4 delivers a maximum output of around 530 hp, offering similar power levels of latest-generation V8 engines produced by BMW.

The production interruption has been planned and prepared for since early 2019. Virtual reality (VR) is also being used across the board in transmission and final assembly to optimise future processes.

BMW is investing a total of around EUR200 million on its Munich plant to bring series production of the BMW i4 to fruition.