Are BMW hinting that they will be entering the pickup truck segment?

Are BMW hinting that they are considering entering the pickup truck segment?

BMW has
just unveiled their new 8th-gen 5 Series
 and although there's a lot of exciting stuff to process from the next-gen 5 Series, a few comments made by BMW's head of Design, Domagoj Dukec, have got some of us even more excited  - and its got nothing to do with the 2024 5 Series.

According to carbuzz, during a roundtable discussion with the head of BMW Design, Domagoj Dukec, suggested that BMW is eyeing several new vehicle segments, including the pickup truck segment.

"Since I've been at BMW, people have always been asking for a BMW pickup," Dukec said.

"We always calculated that a luxury truck would just be for the US. Maybe things are changing," Dukec continued.

"The SAV segment is anyway growing and as a carmaker, you're looking at this, definitely."

In the context of BMW, SAV stands for "Sports Activity Vehicle." It is a term used by BMW to describe their line of Sport Utility Vehicles. But since BMW does not conform to traditional naming and segments, perhaps their SAV lineup will include a pickup truck.

Speculation is rife that after teaming up with Toyota to produce the Z4 and Supra, BMW might produce a pickup truck using the TNGA-F platform. But BMW explained that rebadge technology is not an option for them, as all BMWs must drive like a BMW.

If BMW wishes to try and enter the luxury pickup truck segment, they will have to learn from Mercedes' mistake, as their X-Class can be classified as a failure.

Picture credit: Revere London

It did not achieve significant success in the market for several reasons, including a target market mismatch. The X-Class aimed to appeal to both lifestyle-oriented buyers and commercial customers. However, it struggled to find a clear identity and failed to resonate strongly with either target market.

Plus, the X-Class was based on the Nissan Navara platform, which led to criticisms of it being essentially a rebranded version of an existing pickup truck rather than a unique offering. This may have impacted its perceived value and exclusivity among buyers.


2021 Nissan X-Trail Unveiled With New VC-Turbo Engine - What Is That?

2021 Nissan X-Trail unveiled in China auto show - equipped with an impressive new engine with a variable compression???

Many electric vehicles like the
Geely Zeekr
 are stealing the limelight at the ongoing Shanghai Auto motor show, however, one ICE (internal combustion engine) car has still managed to creep its way into the headlines, thanks to what it's carrying underneath its bonnet.

That ICE car grabbing a lot of attention is the new 2021 Nissan X-Trail, an identical twin of the
Nissan Rogue
, which debuted in North America nearly a year ago.

A couple of reasons why the new 2021 X-Trail has garnered some attention at the show is because it's been
eight years
 since we have had a new X-Trail, with the other being of what's underneath the bonnet.

The 2021 X-Trail's twin, the Nissan Rogue, comes with the old 2.5-litre naturally-aspirated engine with 181 hp and 245 Nm of torque, but the new X-Trail, which just made an appearance at the Shanghai Auto show, comes with Nissan's brand new 1.5-litre turbocharged three-pot engine, constructed around Nissan's variable compression (VC-Turbo) technology which delivers high performance and low fuel consumption.

This 1.5-litre engine can deliver 204 PS and 300 Nm of torque, an impressive performance figure from a small motor. It's also been said that the engine can provide 5.8 litres per 100 km when it comes to fuel consumption, which is also an impressive feat.

But what is this VC-Turbo technology? How does it work? Does it really change shape when called upon?

It does change shape actually, but
transform
 would be a better word for describing what the engine does. The VC-turbo engine is a shape-shifting engine that uses a clever multi-link system attached to the base of the conrod that allows it to seamlessly raise or lower the reach of the pistons – effectively creating a variable compression ratio engine, a
world's first
 using such means.

The VC-Turbo engine can vary its compression ratio between 8:1 (for higher performance) and 14:1 (for higher efficiency). It has also been said that the VC-Turbo engine achieves lower noise and vibration levels than conventional internal combustion engines and is lighter and more compact than V6 units with comparable power outputs.

The VC-Turbo engine is nothing new, as it actually debuted in an
Infiniti back in 2017
. Although it made headlines back then for what it can achieve, it wasn't until Nissan plopped it in the current
Nissan Altima
 (Nissan Teana) that it got a bit more attention.

In 2019, Nissan's 2-litre VC-Turbo engine was listed in Wards' 10 Best Engines & Propulsion Systems of 2020 list. Wards is an authoritative industry publication in America, which assesses automotive powertrains since 1995 and recognises the best in its annual listings.

The three-cylinder 1.5-litre VC-turbo engine is all new and has been confirmed to be the engine of choice for the Chinese market. The European Nissan X-trail which Nissan says will only make its debut in 2022 will be equipped with Nissan's e-Power range-extended electric powertrain, the same as the new Qashqai (190 PS electric motor coupled with a 156 PS 1.5-litre engine).

If Nissan wants to be competitive in Malaysia then they should bring in the X-Trail with the VC-turbo engine, but there's a sinking sensation that we might just get the engine which is in the Nissan Rogue - but hey, who knows, Nissan after all is on a new corrective direction, so maybe we will just get the best out of Nissan!

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2016 Mazda CX-9 Officially Breaks Cover At Los Angeles Auto Show

At the 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show, Mazda - as we knew they would - have revealed its new CX-9  SUV to replace its near 10-year old predecessor, which also accompanies a brand new turbocharged 2.5-litre entrant to its SkyActiv-G engines. Mazda’s newest, and so far largest, is slated to hit the US market in the spring of 2016.
The car shows off the evolution of Mazda’s KODO design language and, by their own words, a move “toward a more premium design execution” is telling, perhaps indicating at their ambitions set on higher price points. Regardless, this more premium outlook is clearly seen in the CX-9’s interior the most.
On the outside, the new CX-9 rides on a longer wheel base (by 55mm) but is has a shorter body (by 30mm) than its predecessor, achieved through shorter front and rear overhangs - something Mazda is known for engineering into their newer cars  to achieve altogether more commanding stance on the road as well as better handling characteristics, the new Mazda2 being a prime example.
The new CX-9 is also between 90kg-130kg lighter than before depending on whether the front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive version is selected. The seven seater indeed does take styling cues from the Koeru concept that was unveil at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show, which can only be a good thing as that was met with near-unanimous praise for its looks.
Inside, the cabin is brought up to scratch with Mazda’s newfound swagger in interior fit, finish, and design. It receives the same centre-mounted infotainment screen displaying the Mazda Connect system and dashboard layout that cossets the driver and front passenger. The new CX-9 will also be offered with Mazda’s advanced i-ACTIVSENSE safety systems and i-ACTIV AWD, as the carmaker calls its intelligent all-wheel-drive system.
The new CX-9 will be the first in Mazda’s line-up to receive their
2.5-litre SkyActiv-G 2.5T
 petrol engine which replaces the 3.7-litre V6 in the outgoing model, while outclassing it by every metric.
The new turbo petrol unit, based on the naturally aspirated 2.5-litre SkyActiv-G offered in the Mazda CX-5 and Mazda 6, is now their most powerful generating up to 250PS and 420Nm of torque (in the North American version). Mazda is touting their Dynamic Pressure Turbo and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system as the main advancements behind their new powerplant.


Review: 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS 450+ AMG Line - The luxury EV that can cope without a charging network

The Mercedes-Benz EQS 450+ might have been late to the local EV party, but as we found out, it's probably the only EV we would buy right now.

Consumers who are looking for the most technologically advanced sedans are often early adopters of technology and are interested in features such as advanced driver assistance systems, infotainment systems, and connectivity features.

These consumers may also be interested in sustainability and eco-friendliness and may prefer vehicles with advanced electrified powertrain options, such as hybrid or electric vehicles.

Such consumers are typically interested in the latest innovations and may prioritise technology over traditional factors such as convenience and price tag. They are also willing to pay a premium for the latest and greatest technology, as they just want the best.

Well, suppose you're this type of consumer, in that case, there's no doubt that the Mercedes-Benz EQS is the car for you. As far as the latest and greatest electric vehicle sedan available in Malaysia goes, there are no better options right now than the Mercedes-Benz EQS 450+.

The Mercedes-Benz EQS 450+ is an electric luxury sedan that can deliver a luxurious electrified experience. It is part of the Mercedes-Benz EQ sub-brand, dedicated to electric vehicles.

The EQS 450+ is positioned as the flagship electric vehicle in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, similar to how the Mercedes-Benz S580e is their flagship vehicle for their internal combustion lineup of vehicles.

It was
introduced locally mid-last year
, nearly a year after it was launched globally. Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) launched a single variant called the EQS 450+ AMG Line, which in our opinion, delivers the best of what you can have for now, even if
MBM were to introduce the EQS 500 4Matic in the near future
, which sacrifices driving range for performance.

Speaking of driving range, the EQS 450+'s claim to fame is that it is an EV with the longest driving range in the world. Thanks to a single motor setup and slick bodywork - which gives the car the title of the most aerodynamic car in the world - the Mercedes EV is probably the most usable EV in Malaysia right now.

While the EQS 450+ must seem like an EV that's all hunky dory, there are some slight niggles about it, but generally, the pros outweigh the cons.

Exterior - Function over form

Although the EQS 450+ is nice to look at, its general overall design is quite bland. In our opinion and according to the opinions of many others, it looks like a big metal jelly bean.

Even the come as standard exterior AMG add-ons, such as the more aggressive front and rear bumper, disappear into a bubble-like shape. The only significant bit of exterior AMG beautification is its 21" AMG wheels, which give the car some much-needed attitude.

Everything is just a bit too round and it seems that Mercedes-Benz has played it safe. Well, there's actually a reason for it, as the EQS's exterior was designed to improve its efficiency, range, and driving experience by reducing the aerodynamic drag and maximising the vehicle's aerodynamic performance.

Mercedes-Benz even claims that the EQS is the slipperiest car in the world as it has a low coefficient of drag (Cd) of around 0.20. To put that in context, a typical Ferrari has a coefficient drag of around 0.36, and they are pretty slick cars.

Interior - Typical Mercedes interior but from the future

Just like most modern Mercedes, the interior is pretty darn nice. In the EQS, we feel like they have concentrated more on delivering a technologically advanced driving experience than a luxurious one because an S-Class feels more luxurious than its EQS sibling.

Nonetheless, the interior of the EQS is impressive and is definitely headlined by that one-piece 56-inch MBUX Hyperscreen. The MBUX Hyperscreen is a high-resolution display that spans across the entire width of the dashboard, creating an immersive and intuitive user experience.

It's not actually one large display, as it is divided into three parts, the centre and main infotainment screen, a meter cluster for the driver and an auxiliary screen for the front passenger. While it impresses anyone who gets into the car, the auxiliary passenger screen is a bit of a gimmick, as the passenger can control everything from the large centre touchscreen just right next to it.

Because the meter cluster has to follow the angle of the whole Hyperscreen as it is one large piece of glass, it doesn't face the driver flat, which gives it a funny viewing angle. Nonetheless, it's still visibly clear just like the other OLED screens on the Hyperscreen.

The seats are also typically Mercedes with adjustments and air conditioning all around, but once again, they are not as lovely as the ones found in the S-Class.

Powertrain and battery- Why this is the best EV right now

The electric motor in the EQS 450+ has a maximum power output of 329 hp and 500Nm of torque. This gives the vehicle quick acceleration, enabling it to reach 0-100km/h in approximately 5.0 seconds. While this is not particularly blistering speed for an EV, it's still fast enough to get your blood pumping.

The battery pack in the EQS 450+ has a capacity of 107.8 kilowatt-hours (kWh), which Mercedes claims gives the vehicle a range of up to around 728 kilometres on a single charge, according to the WLTP testing cycle. While it's generally accepted that most claimed ranges will never be accurate as claimed, the EQS 450+ still had 727km of range when we picked it up from MBM.

Without going into it in too much detail, we pretty much drove it around and carried out our everyday lives for four days, which included sending the kids to school, going to work and gallivanting around the Klang Valley. When we had to return it to MBM, the EQS still had 200km of range, and we never charged it once.

For those who have range anxiety, the EQS's long-range would eliminate that problem once and for all, as you never really have to keep tabs on how much juice it has, especially if you charge it daily.

Speaking of charge, the large battery pack is designed for quick and efficient charging, with the ability to charge from 10% to 80% in around 38 minutes using a fast-charging system.

In summary, the powertrain of the Mercedes-Benz EQS 450+ is designed to provide the vehicle with powerful and efficient propulsion.

Driving impressions - Luxurious refinement at its best

The EQS' electric drive system provides instant and smooth acceleration with minimal noise and vibration. This creates a quiet and relaxing driving experience, especially compared to traditional internal combustion engines.

Because the battery is packed way down low in the floor plan, the EQS features a low centre of gravity, which helps give it good handling and stability. While it's not the most engaging thing to drive, it's a comfortable vehicle, similar to the experience you will get in the S-Class. In addition, it has the S-Class air suspension system, which constantly monitors the road through some sensors to give you the best and most cushioned of rides.

Conclusion - Best EV right now cause range will not be an issue

There are currently several problems with the infrastructure for electric vehicles. Some of them include limited charging networks, slow charging speeds, and sometimes malfunctioning chargers.

To beat this, you need all of the things mentioned above to be rectified, but in a Mercedes-Benz EQS 450+, you have a way around them, as its long range means that you don't need to depend on chargers constantly.

When you combine this long range with Mercedes' luxurious build, attention to detail and support, you have an EV that's close to perfect. Of course, the only thing that can make the EQS any better is the availability of more chargers and charging networks, but till then, you'll just be fine and happy with the Mercedes-Benz EQS 450+ as long as you can charge it at home.


NOT The Yaris We Want!

So UMW Toyota over the weekend (there is no rest for the wicked) teased the headlights of the new incoming 2020
Toyota Yaris
 but unlike many other automotive portals, it didn't get our hearts racing and here's why...

 Now based on the teaser the Yaris we are about to get will most likely be the one below:

*Image courtesy of Toyota Indonesia

*Image courtesy of Toyota Indonesia with the TRD Sportivo bodykit

When what we would have liked to be getting instead is this:

*Image courtesy of Toyota Europe

*Image courtesy of Toyota Europe

The incoming Toyota Yaris has already been released in Thailand since August this year. It will most likely come with the same 2NR-FE 1.5 litre powerplant mated to a seven-speed CVT. This particular powerplant has been around since 2010 and while it is more than proficient at doing what it's supposed to do, I only wonder how much easier wallets would have opened if we were getting the M15A-FXE 1.5 litre Hybrid Dynamic Force engine instead? Currently, the only Toyota in the Malaysian offering with a Dynamic Force engine is the RAV4.

The M15A-FXE is a three-cylinder engine, by the way, I wonder how many of you experts will question its engine vibrations if we do get it here.

It would be foolish of us I suppose to have hoped for anything similar to the European or North American market. This is in no way, shape or form a diss to the
Toyota Yaris
, it is by any stretch of the imagination a good car that is well specced but it's not excitable, it doesn't stoke the imagination. It's a car for those more concerned with resale value...oh wait, that is most of us Malaysians right?

I'll be waiting for the GR Yaris instead...


Mitsubishi Xpander VS Perodua Aruz VS Honda BR-V – Specs Comparison

After the Proton X50, the next most anticipated vehicle launch in Malaysia this year is arguably the new
Mitsubishi XPANDER
which is currently open for booking, but does it have what it takes to go up against the
Honda BR-V
 and
 Perodua Aruz
?

Here to take on models like the Perodua Aruz and the Honda BR-V, the Mitsubishi XPANDER had also just made its debut in neighbouring countries like Indonesia and Thailand this year.

Assembled locally in Pekan, Pahang, the Mitsubishi XPANDER is yet to be launched officially, meaning that its price has not been announced yet. However, it is available for booking at all Mitsubishi outlets nationwide.

So, let us jump straight into things like its dimensions, the list of standard equipment as well as some technical details to see if it has what it takes to take on the Aruz and the BR-V – two models that are doing quite well in Malaysia.

Dimensions Comparison

Model

Mitsubishi XPANDER

Honda BR-V

Perodua Aruz

Length (mm)

4,475

4,457

4,435

Height (mm)

1,730

1,677

1,740

Width (mm)

1,750

1,735

1,695

Wheelbase (mm)

2,775

2,662

2,685

Ground clearance(mm)

205

200

220

In terms of size, the Mitsubishi XPANDER is the biggest of the lot, meaning that it is also the most spacious, which is a big plus for a vehicle in this segment.

For vehicles that claim to be SUVs, ground clearance is also important as it would dictate just how much uneven surfaces, bumps, and lumps they can negotiate. In that sense, the Perodua Aruz is the winner here as it has the most ground clearance, followed by the XPANDER, and then the BR-V.

Features Comparison

Next up, let us look at the list of standard equipment the three models have to offer. Firstly, we have the Mitsubishi XPANDER which comes with LED headlamps, Crystal blocks LED position lamps, LED taillights, as well as 16-inch dual-tone alloy wheels.

Inside, the XPANDER offers best-in-class cabin space with headroom of 1,730 mm, fold-flat second and third-row seats, an under-seat multi-purpose storage compartment, cargo floor box with lid, third-row side pocket and cup holder, a centre console box with sliding lid, multiple storage compartments and glove box with a double compartment, making it arguably the most practical choice out of the three.

The XPANDER also comes with four roof-mounted air vents, and infotainment wise, the XPANDER comes with a 9-inch Audio System with Apple Carplay and Android Auto ready.

There's also a 4.2-inch high contrast meter cluster which shows important information such as engine coolant temperature, cruise control operation indicators as well as car key battery life.

Next up, we have the Honda BR-V which was just updated for the year 2020 with features like a new front grille, a new front bumper with lower bumper garnish, new 16-inch dual-tone alloy wheel design, a new shark fin antenna as well as a new rear bumper with lower bumper garnish on the exterior.

Inside, there are new tweeter speakers, a new cargo light, new cabin filter, automatic air-conditioning, keyless entry, and a push start button. Third-row seats are still adjustable with a 50:50 tilt and tumble split to maximize boot space

The range-topping V variant gets a new seven-inch Display Audio system, leather seats, paddle shifters, and 60:40 one-touch tilt and tumble function for the second row seats.

And then we have the Perodua Aruz, which comes with features (depending on variant) like LED lights all around, 6 airbags, Electronic Stability Control, 6-speaker touchscreen infotainment, automatic air-conditioning, a reverse camera, fabric seats, rear air vents, smart entry with start/stop function, a reverse camera, a built-in Smart Tag, as well as security window tint, and Smart Link with Android connectivity.

If space and practicality are your utmost priorities, the XPANDER wins here. However, if you’re looking at value for money, the Aruz wins as it offers quite an extensive set of features for the price you’re going to pay. The BR-V on the other hand, sits right in the middle, offering whatever the Aruz can and a bit more, but for a slightly higher price.

To sum things up, the XPANDER is the most spacious in terms of head and leg space. When it comes to luggage space, the XPANDER wins only when both the second and third row seats are down. With only the third row down, the BR-V is the most spacious with 539 litres, followed by the Aruz with 514 litres, and the XPANDER with 495 litres.

Safety wise, the Aruz has the most to offer thanks to the ADAS system and 6 airbags. The BR-V and XPANDER only come with dual airbags.

Powertrain

All three models are powered by 1.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engines, and while the XPANDER and the Aruz get a 4-speed automatic transmission, the BR-V comes with a CVT gearbox.

Where output and torque are concerned, the Honda BR-V is the most powerful model among the three, kicking out 120 PS and 145 Nm of torque, followed by the Mitsubishi XPANDER with 105 PS and 141 Nm of torque, and the Aruz with 102 PS and 133 Nm of maximum torque.

All three models are somewhat level in terms of power, and to answer the good old’ “Can it drive up Genting Highlands?” question, the answer is Yes, absolutely!

So, there you have it – a quick look at how the B-segment 7-seater MPV segment is going to look with the arrival of the new Mitsubishi XPANDER.

As promising as the newcomer sounds, it all depends on the pricing as it will be battling it out with two models that are among the best selling vehicles in the country.

So, watch this space for more updates on the Mitsubishi XPANDER, and maybe even a head-to-head comparison video in the future to see who the undisputed king of the segment is.

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Geneva 2016: Volkswagen T-Cross Breeze – The Future of VW SUVs

Volkswagen
’s latest concept, called the T-Cross Breeze is all set to take centre stage on the Volkswagen stand in
Geneva.
Dr Herbert Diess, Volkswagen’s chairman said, “Our T-Cross Breeze is the first open-top SUV in its class and, at the same time, an affordable, cheeky cabriolet with a raised seating position that gives you a perfect view. At the moment the T-Cross Breeze is purely a concept, but we can well imagine putting such a convertible on the market as a production model.”
Equipped with an 81 kW/110 PS 1.0 litre TSI petrol engine producing 175 Nm of maximum torque from just 1,500 rpm, The engine drives the front wheels via a 7-speed DSG dual clutch gearbox. Thus equipped, the SUV convertible, weighing just 1,250 kg, needs a mere 10.3 seconds to reach 100 km/h and reaches a top speed of 188 km/h. Fuel consumption and CO2 values are similarly compelling at 5.0 l/100 km and 115 g/km). In combination with the 40 litre fuel tank, the concept car has a theoretical range of 800 km – easily enough to drive from Geneva to Cannes or Venice on a single tank of fuel.
At a length of 4,133 mm, the T-Cross Breeze is slightly longer than a CrossPolo. It boasts a long wheelbase of 2,565 mm, resulting in short body overhangs. Excluding the door mirrors, the concept car is 1,798 mm wide – significantly up on existing cars in the Polo class – while the passengers in the T-Cross Breeze also sit considerably higher up. The total height of the new Volkswagen is exactly 1,563 mm when the soft top is closed.
Inside, the T-Cross Breeze’s cabin is very futuristic, making use of next-generation human-machine interface (HMI) and developing an entirely new control interface that, one day, aims to completely do away with buttons and switches.
The convertible SUV builds the conceptual bridge to the BUDD-e, which is also being presented in Geneva and saw its debut at the CES in Las Vegas in January. With the exception of the control stalk, the power window switches and the buttons for opening and closing the soft top, all of the controls in the T-Cross Breeze are touch-sensitive surfaces or executed as completely new “by-wire” solutions.
Gesture control also forms an integral part of the operating interface. The new HMI, with its coupled displays, is detached from the dashboard in a style similar to that of the zero-emission BUDD-e.
Looking for a Volkswagen? Find one now at
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Detroit 2018: Lexus LF-1 Limitless Concept SUV Teased

Lexus has teased the LF-1 Limitless, a flagship crossover concept designed by its Calty design studio in Southern California, just ahead of its scheduled debut at the Detroit Autoshow in January.
An aerial picture of the rear shows end shows a highly stylised coupe-SUV body style, much like the BMW X6 and Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe. However, given Lexus’ current flagship SUV, the LX 570, a “flagship crossover” as implied should see the LF-1 concept closer in size to the upcoming
Audi Q8
.
After overexposing the teaser picture (above), we clearly see a teardrop-style panoramic roof and upper deck spoiler that seamlessly connects to the roofline. The raked D-pillar and bold rear arches are further indicators of the LF-1 concept’s size.
Also, peering through the glass roof would indicate two independent screens displaying navigation and other vehicle information.
The Lexus LF-1 Limitless will be revealed at the Lexus Press Conference at the Detroit Autoshow, which takes place between 13th to 28th January 2018.


The 2023 Honda Civic Type R has arrived in ASEAN

The 2023 Civic Type R has arrived in ASEAN - coming to Malaysia soon?

According to Vietnamese website Autopro, Vietnam will be the first country in ASEAN to get the FL5 Civic Type R, as it will be launched at the 2022 Vietnam Motor Show (VMS), which starts tomorrow.

The portal also stated that the FL5 generation Honda Civic Type R would be handed to customers on October 30, which is basically right after the end of the Vietnamese motor show.

The
fastest-ever production Civic Type R
 is expected to be sold in Vietnam at a price below 2 billion Dong( RM382k), making it one expensive machine.

The Civic Typer R is no longer made in Swindon UK, and the cars to be sold in Vietnam are
imported from Japan
.

According to the website, Vietnamese Civic Type R fans have been waiting a long time for a Civic Type R to be sold in the country, as Honda teased the 5th-Gen at the 2018 VMS motor show but never sold the car after the exhibition.

The 6th-Gen Type R is built on the 11th-Gen Civic platform and carries over the 5th-Gen Civic Type R's engine but with a few tweaks. We all know that the 2023 Honda Civic FL5 Type R is the most powerful Honda Civic Type R to ever come out of the factory, and one of the reasons for this is due to a new turbocharger.

The KC20C1 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine in the FL5 now pushes out 330PS and 420Nm of torque, where previously it was only rated at 320PS and 400Nm of torque.

We guess the big question is when will we be getting it in Malaysia? Well, we Malaysians received the FK8 Civic Type R after Indonesia got theirs, so perhaps we will have to wait for a reveal in Indonesia before knowing when we will receive ours.

The
FK8 was sold in Malaysia for RM320k
, and if the Vietnamese Civic Type R's pricing is anything to go by, you can expect to pay just under RM400k for the new Civic Type R. Worth the wait and price?


Max Verstappen drives the Honda CR-V Hybrid Racer aka "The Beast"

Two-time F1 world champion,
Max Verstappen
, took the
Honda CR-V Hybrid Racer
 aka "The Beast" out for a spin.

Ahead of the 2023 Miami F1 GP, "Mad Max" was introduced to the manic 800hp Honda CR-V Hybrid Racer by Indycar driver, James Hinchcliffe, before he had some fun behind the steering wheel around the Homestead-Miami Speedway.

From the video above, we can clearly see that the Oracle Red Bull Racing driver had a great time piloting the Honda beast around the track and even included some donuts along the way. We also expected him to say that he enjoyed the car as well as other things like stating how grippy the car was.

This is all thanks to the brilliant minds over at Honda as well as Honda Performance Development (HPD) who led the project and injected The Beast with a 2.2-litre twin-turbocharged, electrified Honda V6 Indycar power unit and transmission under the 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid bodywork.

They've even gone to the extent of taking the front end of a Honda NSX and stuffing it into this so-called 'rolling laboratory'. Other notable features include the car running exclusively on Shell's 100% renewable race fuel, carbon-composite lower half construction, butterfly half-cut doors, and of course, that huge rear wing.

For all you car geeks out there, you might be interested in some of the more detailed specs of this 800hp Honda CR-V Hybrid Racer listed, below:

McLaren Applied Technologies Tag 400i Engine Control Unit

Driver-activated Empel electric motor-generator unit

Skeleton supercapacitor energy storage system

XTRAC six-speed transmission; Mega-Line Assisted paddle-shift

Front suspension from HPD-developed Acura NSX GT-3 Evo22

Rear suspension adapted from Dallara IR-18 Indy car

Brembo 380mm front brakes from Acura NSX GT-3 Evo22

Brembo 355mm custom rear brakes adapted to Dallara IR-18 suspension

Firestone Firehawk Indy 500 Ultra-High Performance Summer Tires

2Elle Engineering 20x10.5 Front and 20x11 Rear two-piece alloy wheels


FAQs on B10 Biodiesel – What You Need To Know Before B10 Is Introduced

As the value of crude oil exports dwindle, palm oil is becoming an increasingly important strategic sector for Malaysia. One of the measures taken by the Malaysian government to bolster support for the palm oil sector is by mandating the use of biodiesel – a blend of palm oil and diesel fuel.
Currently, all diesels sold in Malaysia have 7 percent palm oil content, and are thus referred to as B7. The government plans to increase this to 10 percent later this year (B10).
Did you know that under the Malaysian Biofuel Industry Act 2007, the Plantation Industries and Commodities Minister has the power to enforce any type of biofuel at any blend as mandatory?
The plan to introduce B10 however, has met a lot of opposition. Critics say biodiesel is hydroscopic, meaning that it absorbs water from the atmosphere, leading to
clogged fuel filters
 and injectors, as well as premature wear of rubber seals. The added blow-by gases also dilutes engine oil.
In the past, we have reported
several car makers' stand
 on the subject but Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB), the organisation developing the technology for biodiesel production in Malaysia, have recently reached out to us to have a roundtable talk at their research facility in Bangi. We were rather skeptical, but it's only fair to have opinions from both sides to be heard.
On hand to answer our questions on biodiesels were Dr. Lim Weng Soon, Deputy Director-General for Research and Development, accompanied by Principal Research Officers Harrison Lau Lik Nang (Ph.D) and Wan Hasamuddin Wan Hassan.
Our 2-hour long discussion touched on many topics but for brevity, we have summarized MPOB’s answers in an FAQ format below. The text below
are not
 MPOB’s verbatim answer, but a summary of it.
But first, let’s answer the most obvious question here:
Can my diesel vehicle run on biodiesel?
Yes you can, but only up to B7. Beyond that, certain modifications to the engine is required. So far, there are only two diesel models in Malaysia whose manufacturers have confirmed that is compatible with –
Mercedes-Benz E300 BlueTec Hybrid
 (previous W212 generation) and Peugeot 508.
BMW
, Hyundai, Isuzu, Jaguar, Land Rover, Mazda, Kia, Porsche,
Mitsubishi
 and Chevrolet have flatly
rejected B10
.
As for other Japanese manufacturers, Toyota, Nissan, Mitsubishi have given a conditional acceptance, meaning that their standard engines can run on B10 only if the fuel’s properties have been modified to meet Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association’s (JAMA) requirements.
The modifications required are: water content specification limited to 200 ppm and minimum oxidation stability of 35 hours (Modified Rancimat Method). In addition, JAMA also requests that B7 to be made available at all fuel pumps even after B10 is introduced. The Japanese technical body opines that
B10 should be limited only to engines running on Euro-4 or earlier
 emission standards. The newer generation of
Euro-5 or higher engines can only run on B7.
At the same time, MPOB’s own studies, as well as those conducted by JAMA and Indonesia’s GAIKINDO (equivalent to our Malaysian Automotive Association, MAA) have shown that there are engines that can reliably run in the real-world using B10, more on that later.
Will my vehicle’s warranty remain valid if I fuel up my diesel vehicle with B10?
MPOB is confident that it will be business as usual when B10 is introduced later this year, pointing out Indonesia's have successful migration to B20. However note that the diesel vehicles used in Indonesia are mostly commercial trucks, not high-end passenger cars.
As mentioned above, most car companies have said that their engines are not compatible with anything higher than B7.
At the end of the day, it is the car companies and not MPOB who will be covering your diesel engine’s warranty. So until the manufacturer of your car can confirm that it is OK to use B10, the answer is no, you warranty will no longer be valid if you use B10.
If my vehicle manufacturer says I can’t use B10, what happens when B10 is mandatory?
When B10 is eventually rolled out, all fuel stations will still continue to carry B7. All Euro 5 diesel will continue to be B7 while regular Euro 2M diesel will be B10.
In highland areas, only B7 biodiesel (MPOB didn’t specify if it will be Euro 2M or Euro 5) will be available, to cope with the low temperatures.
So if you are not convinced with B10, simply switch to B7, which is of a higher Euro 5 grade anyway.
How much will B10 biodiesel cost?
As of January 2017, all diesel fuels sold in Malaysia are B7, with Euro 2M and Euro 5 grade diesel priced at RM2.05/litre and RM2.15/litre respectively.
Prices of B10 have yet to be confirmed, but MPOB says for every 1 percent increase in Palm Methyl Ester (PME) - the proper name for the palm oil extract blended into our biodiesel - production cost will increase by 1 sen/litre.
This opens another question regarding the rationale behind B10. It's more expensive to produce, but it can only be used on older generation Euro 4 or lower diesel engines. Meanwhile the more expensive Euro 5 or higher diesel engines, the premium performance diesel models, can only use the cheaper B7. Where is the logic?
When will B10 be introduced?
The government aims to mandate B10 sometime in 2017.
With the consumer advice out of the way, below are the finer details on the why and how of biodiesels.
The terms FAME and PME are often mentioned when talking about biodiesel. What’s the difference between the FAME and PME?
They are essentially the same. FAME stands for Fatty Acid Methy Ester while PME stands for Palm Methyl Ester.
Biodiesels can be produced from a variety of plant-derived sources, including soy, rapeseed and other vegetable oils. Depending on a country’s agricultural produce, different countries may use different materials to produce biodiesel. The US for example, uses soy while Malaysia uses palm oil.
FAME is the general umbrella terminology for these biodiesel blend, while PME specifically refers to palm oil-based biodiesel.
Throughout the article, you will come across terms like PME 10%, this refers palm oil-based B10. Biodiesel with 10 percent soy-based content for example, is referred to as SME 10%.
What are the technical standards set for our biodiesel?
All biodiesel produced and sold in Malaysia must meet Malaysia’s MS 2008:2014 standard, which according to MPOB, is even stricter than Europe’s EN 14214:2012.
MPOB explains that this is because our Malaysian MS standard B10 has a stricter tolerance on oxidation stability, made under request from Japan’s JAMA.
In simple terms, a higher oxidation stability ensures that the fuel will not expire so soon, and it is less likely to react negatively against metallic materials used in the fuel tank and fuel lines, especially those in older vehicles.
What are the results of the tests done with B10?
MPOB and DBKL have been conducting field trials with 75 vehicles since 2013, including five Peugeot 508, four Toyota Hilux, four Toyota Fortuner, one Mitsubishi Triton and one Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, as well as many more commercial trucks and buses. Some of the vehicles are fueled with B10 while others are fueled with B20 (all supplied by Petronas).
Some vehicles have clocked up to 300,000 km, and periodic inspections by MPOB have shown no anomalies, apart from trace amounts of engine oil dilution but MPOB says this is still within normal limits.
Fuel filter plugging was only found in cars using a much higher blend B20, and it was limited to PME produced by one supplier, while others were fine.
A sample fuel filter from a Peugeot 508 GT was shown, but we must add that the engine in the Peugeot 508 GT is very old, dating back to 1999, co-developed with Ford. It is not a good representation of the needs of the latest generation of diesel engines used by BMW, Porsche and Mazda.
Injector deposits were found in some buses with over 300,000 km but there was no effect on injector flow rate.
Tests done by Indonesia’s GAIKINDO using a common-rail turbo diesel engine with 200 MPa pressure fueled with B20 showed also showed no deposits accumulating on the injector.
Meanwhile, Japan’s JAMA test with a Euro 5 engine running on PME 10% type B10 showed a higher flow rate at the injectors than regular diesel, which JAMA said is due to PME's superior lubricating effect.
Earlier tests by JAMA using soy-type SME biodiesel have shown that vehicles that use metal fuel tanks can have their metal coatings bleached by the biodiesel, resulting in bleaching and accumulation of meat deposits inside the injectors.
At the request of MPOB, JAMA repeated the same test with PME10% and it showed no bleaching effect, due to the higher oxidation stability of PME 10%.
Dynamometer tests done by JPJ have also shown that there is no difference in performance when the engine is running on B10 or even B20.
To date, none of the vehicles have shown any deterioration in performance and specific engine components like oil filter and fuel injectors are periodically removed for inspections.
MPOB also shared case studies of similar trials in Colombia and Indonesia, but we feel that these are not good examples to support the case for B10 or B20 in Malaysia. We are quite certain none of the engines used in these trials were of the latest BMW EfficientDynamics diesel or
Mazda's SkyActiv-D
 - still the world's cleanest diesel and one that meets all real-world driving emissions test without requiring exhaust after treatment systems.
The engines that were used in the Colombian and Indonesian trials were simpler engines designed primarily for commercial use, on taxi-specs Toyota Innova and 4x4 pick-up trucks, vehicles that are already designed for rough environments and have a high measure of tolerance against poor fuel quality, as engineers expect owners to sometimes fuel these vehicles directly from oil drums in rural areas. However that doesn't mean that Toyota can go on record to say it's OK to test the limits of tolerance for a long period of time.
In Malaysia, people drive their diesel BMWs and Mazdas at much higher speeds than their counterparts in Indonesia or Colombia, sometimes up to 140 km/h on long stretches of highways with 40 degrees ambient temperature. Even farmers transporting produce between Cameron Highlands to wholesale markets in Kuala Lumpur drive their Toyota Hilux at much higher speeds on the highway, every day. Having the local biodiesel association organizing a simple, one-off drive up to Cameron Highlands with B10-powered diesel vehicles don't prove anything.
Why don’t MPOB work with car companies to clear their doubts with a joint test?
The challenge for MPOB is that there are a lot of car manufacturers in the market, and they don’t normally share information with one another.
A test result conducted by Japan’s JAMA will not be recognized by a European manufacturer, and vice versa.
Further compounding the problem is that there is no universal standard to verify an engine’s compatibility with biodiesel. As explained earlier, there are many forms of biodiesel and the palm oil-based PME-type biodiesel is only one of them.
What is the response from oil companies?
At the moment, oil companies are asking to delay implementing B10. All the necessary investments in infrastructure to produce B10 have already been put in place but oil companies say they need more time to prepare their facilities to accommodate B10.
How many biodiesel production facilities are there in Malaysia?
There are currently 20 to 30 biodiesel production facilities in Malaysia, some are active while others are under construction. Only a small portion of the facilities are owned by palm oil companies. The rest are owned by companies from outside the plantation industry.
How sustainable is biodiesel? Wouldn’t it divert agricultural output meant for food, leading to rise in food prices?
The way MPOB sees it, biodiesel is simply reducing the component of fossil fuel used in the production of diesel fuel, substituting it with palm oil.
In Malaysia, ninety percent of our palm oil is already being exported so MPOB isn’t too concerned that diverting supply of palm oil for fuel will lead to an increase in food prices in the country.
What happens when palm oil fetches better prices overseas? Will local producers continue to supply local biodiesel producers instead of exporting?
Over the past five years, plans to execute biodiesel have remained even though prices of palm oil fluctuated. In MPOB’s opinion, this shows the government’s commitment to develop biodiesel.
They also went on to say that palm oil is a strategic advantage for our country and every step to grow the industry benefits Malaysians. For a palm oil producing country, diversifying the use of palm oil is crucial.
Conclusion
Biodiesel certainly offers good potential. Independent tests by Japan’s JAMA suggests that many concerns on negative effects of biodiesel, especially in terms of material compatability and injector plugging, does not apply to Malaysia’s higher quality palm oil PME-type biodiesel. However, we at Carlist.my also believe that these alone are not sufficient to conclude that B10 biodiesel is suitable for all diesel vehicles.
In fact, JAMA’s report specifically mentioned that the conclusion on B10’s compatibility must come from the vehicle manufacturers.
Car companies are private business entities. They have every incentive to maintain a good relationship with the government of the country where they do business in. When they do express opposition to a particular government policy, they usually have a very good reason behind it.
Before an engine is released for sale, powertrain engineers spend thousands of hours validating computer simulation and lab test results with on-road driving - test runs in freezing Artic, to scorching deserts of Nevada, to sustained high speeds on German autobahns, many punishing laps at the highly uneven Nurburgring Nordschleife circuit, towing trailers up the Swiss Alps and oxygen starved Andes. Warranties aside, manufacturers have to ensure that their engines last at least 300,000 km or 15 years of fair use.
If someone wants to run their engine with a fuel that the engine was not originally designed for, they have reasons to be cautious.
Given enough advance notice, and a reasonable business justification (it costs time and money to adapt an engine to B10), engineers can retune their engines to run on any type of biofuel.
Every car in Brazil runs on biofuel – 100 percent ethanol fuel (E100), and car companies have no complaints because the Brazil’s biofuel policy have been outlined energy road map that was drawn up in the 1970s.
Most petrol-powered cars sold in Thailand today can run on either E20 or E85 gasohol (mix of petrol and ethanol), and when it was implemented, it was pretty much business as usual because Thailand's biofuel plan has been announced since 2008, and Thailand rarely flip-flops on its policy so when the government announces something, businesses can be certain that it will be followed through.
Malaysia is a small market and it’s difficult to compel car companies to make specific adjustments to their engines within such a short period of time.
The correct way forward to promote biodiesel would be to work with Indonesia – the largest car market in ASEAN – to draft a long-term alternative fuel road map for car companies to work with. But this is easier said than done because Malaysia and Indonesia are fierce rivals in the palm oil sector.
If palm oil lobby groups are so certain that the car companies are wrong about B10, and that existing test results supporting B10 are good enough, then they should get take up the responsibility of paying out warranties for any potential engine damage due to longterm use of B10. Short of that, their assurances don't mean anything.
If B10 is forced on to the market and started damaging diesel engines, the resulting stigma will permanently condemn biodiesel, which is a shame because as proven by JAMA's tests, Malaysia's PME biodiesel is the best around and it deserves a chance to succeed. What the automotive industry is asking for is a clear road map and to give them enough time to tune their diesel engines to run on B10.


Porsche 911 GT2 RS Launched In Malaysia – From RM2,900,000

The fastest and most powerful road-legal Porsche 911 of all time, the 911 GT2 RS has been launched in Malaysia by local Porsche distributor Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP).
First unveiled in July last year
, the Porsche 911 GT2 RS is the fastest and most powerful road-legal 911 model of all time, which retails for RM2,900,000 inclusive of prevailing taxes, sans insurance.
"Porsche is celebrating its 70th anniversary with numerous activities around the world; uniting sports car enthusiasts, customers, and employees, reminiscing cherished and exciting moments that have been shared with others around the world," said Arnt Bayer, CEO of SDAP.
"We are honoured to join Porsche in celebrating its 70th anniversary in conjunction with the launch of the new 911 GT2 RS," he continues.
At the heart of the 911 GT2 RS is a turbocharged 3.8-litre flat-six engine, also found on the 911 Turbo S model, fettled to produce a whopping 700 hp courtesy of larger turbochargers and an upgraded cooling system.
Peak torque is rated at 750 Nm, identical to that of the 911 Turbo S during overboost, however, the GT2 RS produces 120 hp more than the Turbo S (580 hp) and 80 hp more than its (997.2-generation) predecessor. The engine is mated to a customised seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (PDK) which drives the rear wheels.
Weighing in at 1,470 kg with a full fuel tank, the GT2 RS accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds onto a top speed of 340 km/h. The GT2 RS’ awesome real-world performance recently earned it the title as the
fastest street-legal sports car on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife
, smashing the previous lap record, set with the Lamborghini Huracan Performante by five seconds.
In terms of handling, the Porsche 911 GT2 RS receives 265/35ZR20 tires up front and massive 325/30ZR21 tires at the rear. Porsche have also equipped the GT2 RS with the company’s rear-axle steering system and a specially calibrated 'Sport' mode for the Porsche Stability Management (PSM) program to offer optimal driving dynamics. The 911 GT2 RS comes fitted with the Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) system as standard.
Visually, the GT2 RS is much like its track-focussed sibling, the GT3 RS – the front wings, wheel housing vents, outer shells on the 'Sport Design' wing mirrors, air intakes on the rear side sections and parts of the rear end are made from carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP). The bonnet is also made from carbon while the roof is made from magnesium to keep weight down.
Optionally, customers can spec the optional Weissach package, which provides a further weight saving of around 30 kilograms. The package includes additional elements made from CFRP and titanium, while the roof, anti-roll bars and coupling rods on both axles are made from carbon. Magnesium wheels further reduce the unsprung weight of the car. Additionally, the luggage compartment lid and the carbon-roof will be emblazoned with a central strip in the same colour as the car for a visually distinctive look.
On the inside, the 911 GT2 RS is about the business of going fast, dominated by full bucket seats contrasted by red Alcantara trim appointments and carbon-weave elements. The GT2 RS also features a sports steering wheel as standard.
As with every 911, the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) is the central control unit for audio, navigation, and connectivity. The Connect Plus module and Porsche Track Precision app are also included as standard, enabling detailed recording, display, and analysis of driving data on a smartphone.
The optional Chrono Package expands the PCM functions to include performance display, which can be used to display, save and evaluate track times. The Chrono Package on the 911 GT2 RS comes with a lap trigger which works with Porsche Track Precision app in conjunction with external markers on the start/finish straight, to enable drivers to record lap times with extreme accuracy.
If you have trouble telling a 911 Targa from a Carrera, or wonder what’s the difference between 911 GT3 and GT3 RS, check out our comprehensive and somewhat less confusing explanation of the Porsche 911 range
here
.


Isuzu Malaysia Donates Truck To Malaysian Red Crescent Society

With the annual monsoon deluge and natural disasters regularly affecting thousands living in the east coast states of Peninsular Malaysia, getting relief supplies to them can often be burdensome and usually difficult for humanitarian organisations such as the Malaysian Red Crescent Society (MRCS).
Distribution of essentials and other supplies need to be effected systematically and rapidly and this usually requires a large pool of resources ranging from manpower to trucks, four-wheel drive vehicles and even boats. In some instances, volunteer groups and private vehicles are needed to assist when the affected areas become too large or difficult to access.
So, in an effort to provide the MRCS with an additional asset to deploy in times of need, Isuzu Malaysia donated an Isuzu N-Series 5,000kg truck for use by the society, particularly in the state of Pahang. The truck will be a valuable and timely tool for the MRCS particularly as the Northeast monsoons approach in less than three months.
The Isuzu N-Series 5,000kg chassis presented by Isuzu Malaysia was fitted with an aluminum box body donated by Sri Hoong Huat Auto Trading Sdn Bhd (LEW’s), one of the leading truck body builders in the country.
Kenji Matsuoka, Chief Executive Officer of Isuzu Malaysia who handed the keys of the Isuzu truck to MRCS’ secretary general Dato’ Sayed A. Rahman bin Sayed Mohd, said he hopes that the company’s contribution would enhance the society’s outreach  efforts to communities in times of need.
“Preparedness for eventualities can make a huge difference in coping with natural calamities and disasters. By providing the Malaysian Red Crescent Society with one of the most dependable and efficient trucks available today, we hope that Isuzu is able to contribute towards the Society’s disaster response initiatives,” said Matsuoka.


2023 Budget: New EV incentives needed to help industry grow even further, says Proton deputy CEO

The 2023 budget, which is set to be tabled next week, needs to come with new incentives to help the growth of Malaysia's electric vehicle Industry, says Proton Holdings Bhd deputy CEO, Roslan Abdullah.

According to The Star, he said the EV industry is new in Malaysia and has the potential to grow big, where we can even be a hub for its production.

"EV are a new technology and requires investment. It has the potential to increase investment in Malaysia," he said.

"If the government can provide attractive incentives to bring in investors, we can make Malaysia a hub for the production and distribution of EV components," said Proton's deputy CEO.

Roslan also added that the existing EV incentives need to be extended, so that more consumers would be interested in adopting EVs.

Even though Proton is currently not selling any electric vehicles, these comments by one of their top dogs clearly paint a picture for their future. Previously, Roslan mentioned that Proton will be producing their own EVs, and they
will arrive by 2027
.

As it is, Proton is
working with Smart Automobile Co Ltd
, where they will be distributing smart vehicles in Malaysia by the end of this year.

Proton has set up a wholly-owned subsidiary, Proton New Energy Technology Sdn Bhd (Pro-Net), and is inviting Malaysians to invest in it, as there are opportunities now to open EV dealerships set up under Pro-Net.


Audi Unveils Next Generation of A5 and S5 Sportback

When the A5 was first launched by Audi, it was an interesting step forward for the brand- a proper GT-esque coupe model that was a step away from the sedans and wagons and hatchbacks that they had become known for. It blended elements of German design and Audi DNA with muscule-car like lines, producing a car that was attractive to a wide range of audiences. From this came the A5 Sportback, which was a 5-door model that came with a large opening rear hatch- essentially a smaller counterpart to the A7 Sportback.
Seven years on, we see the successor to the first A5 Sportback. It retains the combination of functionality and form that made the first A5 Sportback appealing, but has gone through an extensive rework  and is entirely new from the ground up. Most significant are the savings of weight through new materials and construction processes, allowing Audi to shed up to 85 kilograms from its heavy shell. The A5 Sportback now sits at a 1,470 kilograms- making it a little more competitive in terms of weight.
In its home market, the A5 Sportback will launch with a wide range of engines. Two TFSI petrol powerplants and three TDI diesel powerplants will lead the rollout, with options of a 6-speed manual, 7-speed dual clutch, or 8-speed tiptronic gearboxes. The 2.0 TFSI is no doubt among these engines, being the more powerful petrol variant for the A5 Sportbacks. The S5 Sportback remains as the range topping model, with a 3.0-litre V6 TFSI engine pushing out a healthy 354 hp and 500 Nm of torque.
The chassis has naturally been improved for more comfort and agility and the like, but it is the interior where we will see the largest changes. There is more space now for both passengers and cargo, with the boot space increased to a whopping 480 litres of space- making it best in class. Managing to make the luggage area free of intrusion from the wheel wells also offers more space on the whole, wiith a 40:20:40 split folding rear seat for even more flexibility space wise.
Up front, the Audi virtual cockpit appears once again- placing much of the functionality right in front of the driver. The 12.3-inch TFT monitor has been a favourite for us in the various models in which it appears, most prominently in the TT-S. There is also an optional heads up display that projects relevant data up onto the windscreen for even easier viewing. A number of options for the entertainment system are available, not least among which is wthe wireless charging and pairing via Apple Car Play or Android Auto.
Driver assistance systems are also the norm here, with updates and tweaks implemented over the years making the systems more effective. Perhaps most interesting is the Stop&Go adaptive cruise control that allows the car to control its speed and distance in moving traffic at up to 65 km/h- the perfect tool for the mornign commute. New and important safety features include park assist, cross traffic assist rear, exit warning, collision avoidance assist and turn assist as well as the Audi pre sense systems. Camera-based recognition of traffic signs rounds out the lineup.
Audi Malaysia has hinted before that we may very well get these models in the future- the S models in particular. If that really is the case, then we can look forward to having this pair of exciting liftbacks- perhaps the best blend of practicality and the coupe form. While it may have distanced itself from the A7 in form, the new A5 Sportback looks a little more fleshed out and less compromised on the whole.


More floods in KL in the future - underground rainwater storage in carparks the answer?

There's no denying the fact that
flash floods
 in KL are getting more and more common, but can underground carparks help to remedy this situation?

According to former Drainage and Irrigation Department director-general Datuk Dr Keizrul Abdullah, something has to be done, and converting building carparks into underground storage chambers to temporarily store rainwater might be one of the ways, as reported by
The Star
.

Basement carparks can convert into underground water storage?

It's a stressful situation for most of us every time it starts to rain heavily here in the Klang Valley. Places that we thought would never see any form of floods have popped up all over, even in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. Hence, the idea of turning basement carparks into temporary water storage facilities comes to mind.

According to Dr Keizrul, "With so much rainwater these days, poor drainage systems and overdevelopment, it can be very challenging to find ways to store excess water. Just imagine in Kuala Lumpur if all the buildings turned their level 1 and level 2 basement carparks into underground storage, we could have a huge amount of storage space."

SMART Tunnel and water retention ponds not enough?

The water volume for the three major rivers in the federal capital has been rising not only due to mother nature but also major land development surrounding the areas. Features like the SMART Tunnel, water diversions, and retention ponds are helping for now, but they might not hold up in the future should the flash flood situation gets worse.

The idea of converting underground carparks into temporary water storage facilities might be an expensive excursion for older buildings, but it is indeed something that needs to be highly considered for newer developments.

Several countries like Japan, Australia, and France have implemented this method to assist in floods, and so far, the Drainage and Irrigation Department did come out with the Urban Stormwater Management Manual (MSMA) back in 2000 in regards to controlling stormwater run-off and sediment control.

They've made it mandatory for developers to construct water absorption areas around houses amongst other things, but newer developments have made it difficult to implement this effectively. It's probably time to update that Urban Stormwater Management Manual (MSMA) approved in 2000 and stomp some heavy punishments for those who don't obey, eh?


Mitsubishi ‘XPANDER Mini’ Dengan Harga RM54,000 - Lagi Murah Daripada Skuter Yamaha

Tahukah anda
Mitsubishi
ada lancarkan kereta seakan-akan
XPANDER
 versi mini di Jepun yang jauh lebih murah berbanding motosikal skuter keluaran Yamaha?

XPANDER mini atau Mitsubishi eK X ini telah dilancarkan pada tahun 2019 di Jepun. Kini ia telah pun memasuki generasi keduanya yang diberi nama Mitsubishi eK X Space. Tetapi, model generasi pertama ini eK X ini sudahpun menggunakan rupa depan yang mirip dengan
XPANDER
. Sebab itu ianya sering digelar sebagai XPANDER mini.

Tapi benarkah harga XPANDER mini ini jauh lebih murah berbanding skuter keluaran Yamaha? Kalau nak dibandingkan antara menaiki motosikal atau kereta, naik kereta jelas lebih selesa dan selamat daripada sebarang perubahan cuaca, tak kira panas atau hujan. Ia juga merupakan pilihan yang lebih ideal kepada keluarga kecil berbanding sebuah motosikal.

XPANDER mini ini juga menawarkan 4 tempat duduk berbanding
motosikal
yang hanya menawarkan dua tempat duduk. Pendek kata, ianya lebih luas, ada
pendingin hawa
, ada tempat letak barang dan jauh lebih selesa untuk perjalanan jauh. Tapi jangan terkejut bila harga skuter Yamaha lebih mahal daripada harga kereta ini!

eK X ini merupakan model Nissan Roox yang dilencanakan semula serta menerima penambahan seperti rupa bentuk Dynamic Shield yang biasanya terdapat pada
SUV
 dan trak
pick-up Mitsubishi
. Jom kita tengok dengan lebih teliti mengenai spesifikasi ‘XPANDER Mini’ ini.

Dimensi:

Panjang: 3,395 mm

Lebar: 1,475 mm

Tinggi: 1,780 mm

Jarak Roda: 2,495 mm

Berdasarkan daripada rupa hadapan Mitsubishi eK X, ia kelihatan amat serupa dengan rekaan Mitsubishi XPANDER. Sebab itu ada yang menggelarnya XPANDER mini. Jika Mitsubishi XPANDER dipasarkan sebagai sebuah SUV 7 tempat duduk, Mitsubishi eK X ini pula merupakan sebuah minivan seperti Proton Juara.

Muka depannya dilengkapi dengan gril Dynamic Shield dan lampu utama LED di bahagian bampar. Reka bentuknya agak sedikit kecil kerana model eK X ini merupakan salah satu evolusi daripada model kei car (kereta bandar), iaitu eK wagon.

Sebagai kereta bandar di Jepun, XPANDER mini ini dikuasakan dengan enjin 3 silinder 660 cc turbo yang mampu menghasilkan output 51 HP dan 60 Nm tork. Kuasa enjinnya pula dipadankan dengan transmisi CVT dan model ini hadir dengan dua pilihan pacuan, iaitu FWD dan AWD.

Jangan sangka kereta kecil seperti ini tiada kelengkapan teknologi yang canggih. Model ini dilengkapi dengan sistem Mi-Pilot single lane driver assistance untuk kawalan semi-autonomous di lebuhraya. Ia juga dilengkapi dengan ciri keselamatan lain seperti active cruise control, lane keep assist, grip control, multi around monitor serta digital rearview mirror.

Di Jepun, kereta ini dijual pada harga 1,414,800 yen atau sekitar RM54,000 sahaja. Ini menandakan harga kereta ini jauh lebih murah berbanding sebuah skuter Yamaha TMAX DX 560 ABS yang mencecah sehingga RM85,900 (OTR) di negara ini!

Tapi anda jangan salah faham, harga Yamaha TMAX 560 DX ABS mahal kerana ianya merupakan skuter kategori mewah keluaran Yamaha. Di Jepun, harga skuter ini hanyalah berharga 1,419,000 yen atau sekitar RM54,600 sahaja tapi maklumlah, bila dah bawa masuk ke Malaysia, harga mesti naik.

Tetapi sayangnya, Mitsubishi eK X ini tidak dijual di dalam pasaran Malaysia. Walaupun tiada XPANDER mini, kita tetap ada XPANDER SUV dengan harga bermula daripada RM91,369 (OTR).

Antara XPANDER mini dengan Proton Juara, mana satu yang mempunyai reka bentuk yang lebih baik?

For more latest car news, reviews, car buying guides and videos visit us at Carlist.my
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Renault Comes Under Fire After Espace’s Diesel Emissions Examined

On the heels of a diesel-centric emissions scandal started by
Volkswagen
 in September, French vehicle manufacturer
Renault
 has been accused of selling cars, namely their
Espace
 MPV, with an engine that releases toxic emissions approximately 25 times over the legal limit, as Reuters reports.
The findings were the result of a Swiss-run test by German emissions group DUH - amusing acronym there - that have yet to be independently verified. However, should their measurements prove accurate, could implicate not only Renault, but open the floodgates for the mass testing of the many diesel engines from a bevy of global manufacturers.
The tests carried out by the DUH group contradict the EU tests carried out prior to the Renault Espace’s launch. Purportedly, those EU tests were conducted during unrealistically low engine temperatures. When the engines were at warmer or typical operating temperatures, the emission levels are alleged to increase substantially.
DUH claims that an Espace with a 1.6-litre diesel engine running on the latest Euro 6 diesel had emitted up to 2.06 grams of NOx (nitrogen oxides) per kilometre, more than 25 times above the EU limit.
What happens if - and this is a big IF - a large number of tests lead to the majority of modern diesel engines producing toxic pollutants, either in gross violation or inaccurate by small margins, outside of regulatory standards?
A development such as that could permanently vilify diesel engines and the already eroding perception of it as the frugal and more environmentally sound option will be damaged irrevocably.
At the time of writing, Renault has yet to make an official statement on the Espace’s emissions claims being called into question but said it disputes the findings of the DUH lobby group.


Mercedes-Benz A-Class Urban Hunting Activity Edition – 30 Units Only, RM206k

Celebrating the ongoing success of its Urban Hunting movement inspired by the MFA family of New Generation Compact Cars, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has unveiled the A-Class Urban Hunting Activity Edition, a 30-unit-only special exclusively for the Malaysian market based off the A200 and sold at no difference in price.
Whillst the regular A200 in Malaysia is dressed up in AMG Line trim, the Urban Hunting Activity Edition wears the less sporty but more chic Urban design and equipment line. It is offered with a selection of five exterior colours - cirrus white, jupiter red, polar silver, elbaite green, and cavansite blue.
Special details exclusive to this model include:
‘Activity Edition’ fender badging
Matt black side decals
18-inch 10-spoke alloys with contrast black with high-sheen finish
Night Package – black side mirrors, black window beltline trim
Man-made Artico leather with contrast stitching – dashboard, door panel, sports seats.
Finally, a special ‘Urban Hunting Activity Edition’ badge sits on the centre console denoting its exclusivity of being one out of only 30 units available.
The abovementioned extras come in addition to standard kit fitted on the regular A200 that includes:
Autonomous emergency braking
Airbags – dual frontal, side, knee, curtain front-to-rear
Drowsiness detection
LED headlamps, adaptive high beam assist
Paddle shifters
Electric seat adjustment with memory, driver and front passenger
Reverse camera
Active parking assist
The A200 is powered by a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine utting out 156hp and 250Nm of torque. The engine drives the front wheels through a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission built in-house by Mercedes.
In Malaysia,
full line-up of the W176 A-Class family
, which received its
mid-life facelift
 in our market last March, is as follows, OTR without insurance:
A180 – RM195,888
A200 AMG Line – RM205,888
A250 Sport – RM238,888
AMG A45 – RM348,888
The Urban Hunting Activity Edition is priced identical to the regular A200 at RM205,888. Under the terms of Mercedes-Benz’s Agility Financing programme, customers are looking at monthly payments of RM3,441 for three years.


BMW Malaysia Perkenal BMW 740Le xDrive M Sport – Berharga RM 592K

BMW Malaysia
 telah memperkenalkan jentera baharu BMW 740Le xDrive M Sport baharu yang menjadi kenderaan sedan mewah bereletrik yang dipasang di dalam negara (CKD).

“Dengan lebih daripada 20,000 unit kenderaan berelektrik kami di atas jalan raya sejak kami telah merintis peralihan Malaysia ke arah mobiliti elektro pada tahun 2015, kami ingin merealisasikan janji kami untuk membentuk mobiliti masa hadapan Malaysia sekali lagi, dalam bentuk BMW 740Le xDrive M Sport baharu yang dipasang di dalam negara,” kata Hans de Visser, Pengarah Urusan BMW Group Malaysia.

Jentera ini tampil dengan
gril ‘kidney’
 ikonik BMW serta salur masuk udara yang lebih besar, disempurnakan oleh pendakap berbentuk C pada wajahnya.
Sedan
 mewah ini turut hadir dengan BMW Laser Light dengan ciri bantuan lampu puncak dan dipadankan dengan gubahan yang meminimumkan gelora dan heretan (drag) aerodinamik.

Harga: RM 591,503.05 (atas jalan, tanpa insurans) tanpa Cukai Jualan dan Perkhidmatan

Enjin: 3.0L Turbo, 6-silinder

Transmisi: Steptronic lapan kelajuan.

Kuasa & Tork: 286 HP / 450 Nm (Motor Eletrik: 113 HP / 265 Nm)

0-100 km/j: 5.1 saat

Kelajuan Maksimum: 250 km/j

Penggunaan Bahan Api: 2.8L / 100 km

Warna: Mineral White, Carbon Black Metallic, Donington Grey, dan Bernina Grey dengan efek Amber.

Waranti: 5 tahun tanpa had perbatuan

Sedan mewah ini dikuasi oleh enjin petrol enam silinder dengan kapasiti tiga liter yang mampu memberikan output maksimum berjumlah 286 HP dan 450 Nm tork. . Ia turut dikuasakan oleh bateri ion litium dengan teknologi sel bateri tercanggih dan kapasiti storan yang dinaik taraf membolehkan kereta ini mencapai 113 HP dan 265 Nm Tork melalui motor eletriknya. Kelajuan tertingginya mencecah 250 km/j, manakala output gabungan maksimum BMW 740Le xDrive M Sport ialah 394 HP, dengan tork gabungan maksimumnya bernilai 600 Nm.

Trim ‘Fineline’ Fine Wood dalam warna hitam dengan efek logam berglos tinggi menawarkan suasana yang elegan pada bahagian interior kereta ini, termasuk dengan material bumbung BMW Individual Alcantara Anthracite. Selain dilengkapi dengan stereng
M Sport
, pemandu turut menerima kerusi ‘Comfort’ yang boleh dilaras secara elektrik dan turut hadir dengan fungsi memori bagi tempat duduk hadapan.

Keselesaannya dipertingkatkan lagi dengan pencahayaan ambien dan penyaman udara automatik dengan 4 zon kawalan berserta dengan tirai gulung bagi tingkap sisi di belakang, fungsi penutup pintu ‘soft-close’, dan sistem Comfort Access untuk operasi pintu but yang memudahkan.

Ia turut dilengkapi dengan paparan instrumen digital bersaiz 12.3 inci, berserta BMW Navigation System Professional dengan paparan kawalan 10.25 inci dan didatangkan dengan Kawalan Gestur BMW (BMW Gesture Control) serta Papar Pandu BMW (BMW Head-Up Display) di hadapan.

Penumpang di tempat duduk belakang turut dapat menikmati taraf hiburan berkualiti tinggi dengan Entertainment Professional di tempat duduk belakang dengan monitor sentuh bersaiz 10 inci. Ciri bantuan digital pula ditawarkan melalui Driving Assistant Professional, Parking Assistant Plus dan Connected Package Professional. Antara tarikan lain yang melengkapi sedan mewah baharu ini meliputi kemudahan pengecasan tanpa wayar untuk telefon bimbit, Kunci Paparan BMW (BMW Display Key), dan sistem bunyi keliling dengan 16 pembesar suara oleh Harman Kardon.

Anda boleh mendapatkan model ini di semua pusat pengedaran BMW yang bertauliah di seluruh negara bermula 8 Mei 2021. Akibat penyelenggaraan laman web yang dijadualkan, para pelanggan boleh membuat pra-tempahan untuk memiliki BMW 740Le xDrive M Sport baharu dengan bayaran RM 5,000 melalui platform BMW Shop Online di https://shop.bmw.com.my/ mulai 11 Mei 2021 sahaja.

Harga jualan (atas jalan, tanpa insurans) tanpa Cukai Jualan dan Perkhidmatan bagi BMW 740Le xDrive M Sport baharu ialah RM 591,503.05. Dengan ‘Balloon Financing Plan’ yang ditawarkan oleh BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia, anda boleh dimiliki jentera ini menerusi pelan ansuran bulanan yang bermula daripada RM 6,558.00 (berdasarkan anggaran pinjaman sebanyak 80% bagi tempoh lima tahun).

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Aston Martin DB10 And Jaguar C-X75 From Spectre Do Battle In Official Peek

The upcoming James Bond film due out in November 2015, number 24 in the series called Spectre, is by all indications going to be worth the excitement and the wait. It’ll be worth it to have an extensive look at the bespoke
Aston Martin
DB10 and
Jaguar
 C-X75.
We’ve seen
other

instances
 of both cars in Rome shooting chase scenes for the movie on amateur video, but this is the first time the production has released their own footage behind the scenes and it gives us the clearest picture yet of what we can expect come Nov 6
th
.
Dave Bautista’s character, the baddie Mr. Hinx, will be piloting the Jag while Daniel Craig as 007 in the DB10 tries to escape by driving as fast and as sideways as possible. I’ve always wondered why Bond is usually the one doing the fleeing instead of the chasing.
Hopefully, Bond can outmanoeuvre his pursuer and keep both doors on his Aston attached this time. With the amount of screen time that is given to the cars, I think there’s room to forgive him even if he does wreck another car. He does have a history of doing so.


Is There Room For Proton's smart #1 In Malaysia?

Proton will enter the electric vehicle arena in 2023 but is their choice of vehicle a smart one?

Proton's partnership with smart to
distribute the smart #1 electric vehicle in Malaysia
 and Thailand is undeniably a new milestone for Proton and the local automotive scene.

This partnership basically means that for the first time, a local automobile manufacturer will sell an electric vehicle (EV) - even though it is not the Proton EV that many had imagined.

Not the Proton EV we imagined

Picture credit: AutoEvolution

When Proton was rumoured to be conducting feasibility studies on introducing an EV for the Malaysian market in 2021, we all thought that they were
working on a Proton EV
. We also thought they might go as far as
rebadging one under the Proton
 name because they've done that quite well with Geely thus far.

smart #1 - The smart choice for Malaysia?

Never did we think they would be distributors for another brand, even if it is a brand tied to their partner, Geely. Proton's partners have a 50% stake in smart. The equal-stake joint venture
between Geely and Daimler
 has no doubt rejuvenated the smart brand, as the waiting list for the smart #1 in China is at least a year long.

Speaking of a year-long, this is probably another reason why the smart #1 will only be introduced locally in Q4 2023. Yes, these things take time, such as building up the team and the car's support system in Malaysia, but we think the year-long wait
for the car to be launched
 in Malaysia is primarily down to availability. Even the UK will only receive a handful of right-hand drive units in December 2022.

Proton - EV infrastructure/ charging network to be developed

A year is a long time to wait as many things can happen between now and then (change of government, change of policies), but during the official agreement signing, Proton said they are not concerned about the timeline, even if there were other EVs introduced between now and the smart #1's local introduction, where there's a possibility that those EVs would have already stolen its customers.

Instead, they said the period gives them time to study its competitors so that they can introduce a smart #1 that is absolutely right for their target market. Introducing an imported EV in Q4, 2023 also means they will have only a short time to sell the smart #1 before the fully imported EV tax exemption expires. Proton said they are beseeching the government to extend this policy so that the public can benefit from its offering.

No CKD operations for smart #1 just yet...

At the press conference after the agreement signing, Proton's deputy CEO, Roslan Abdullah, said that it's too early to consider CKD operations for the #1 as it is yet to go on sale in Malaysia. Proton would need to assemble the cars locally to take advantage of tax incentives for EVs beyond 2023, so we will have to wait and see what Proton has in the pipeline.

Speaking of tax exemption that will influence the smart #1's price, there are many concerns that the car
might be too pricey
 for its target market. Currently, the smart #1 has a starting price tag of RM120k in China, which tops out at RM150k for the range-topping model. When it comes to Malaysia, we can only hope that it tops out at RM150k, but many are expecting it to be priced above RM150,000, flirting instead around the RM200k mark.

Price and powertrain options of the smart #1?

From what we can gather from smart and Proton's promotional video, the target market seems to be the younger generation. The car is funky and cool, which will attract younger buyers, not those who want something a bit more executive-looking. Right now, the main bulk of EV buyers in Malaysia are the older generation who have thick wallets, apart from those younger buyers who are well-endowed, we can't really see many younger buyers buying them, simply because it'll be relatively pricey.

Proton however said that they are working on a reasonable price for the smart #1, which will allow
many Malaysians to obtain the vehicle
. They are even working closely with financial providers to make the smart EV as affordable as possible.

The one thing that might push buyers towards the smart #1 EV is the charging infrastructure. Proton understands that there is range anxiety when it comes to EVs, which is why they have it in their plans to build up charging facilities across the nation.

According to the slides shown by Proton during the agreement signing, they plan to place charging facilities at popular routes as well as build them up equally within urban and rural areas. In addition, the Proton team responsible for the charging network is also studying the feasibility of setting up mobile charging stations across the country as they wait for the country's charging infrastructure to grow.

A fellow journalist also asked Proton about their plans for Thailand, but they said they are concentrating on Malaysia first as it is a more challenging market to tackle. The Federation of Thai Industries forecasts EV sales in Thailand to be more than 10,000 units this year, while we are only raking in double-digit sales monthly.

Proton is still in the early stages of building the new smart brand in Malaysia, hence even they admitted to the media that they are still unable to answer some questions. However, we hope that they manage to find solutions for the many elephants in the room, as
we are rooting for them
 to get this #1 right.

Heck, if the price is right, we'd definitely buy a smart #1 because it is an attractive little car with all the right features to be a good EV for anyone.


Fuel Price Update: 9 – 15 March – Ron 97 Up 3 Sen, Others Continue To Maintain

The Ministry of Finance Malaysia (MoF) has just announced the price of petrol and diesel, valid for the next seven days.
Effective tomorrow, the premium grade RON 97 fuel is again set for an increase in price, to the tune of 3 sen per litre.
There are no changes to the RON 95 grade petrol and diesel fuel, which the government has set a revised price cap over a week ago.
In summary, the prices for petrol and diesel are listed below:
RON95 –
RM2.08
 per litre (unchanged, capped)
RON97 –
RM2.46
 per litre (up 3 sen from RM2.43)
Diesel Euro 2M –
RM2.18
 per litre (unchanged, capped)
Diesel Euro 5M –
RM2.28
 per litre (unchanged, capped)
The ministry said that without the price cap in place, the price of RON 95 petrol and diesel is RM2.16 and RM2.38 per litre respectively.


Precision Dancing Plus Driving - This Honda HR-V Ad Is Wicked!

This latest ad by Honda UK seems to have taken a page out of the script of the movie Step Up, before giving it an automotive twist.
In this latest TV commercial for the Honda HR-V, titled 'Stepping,' Honda combined the art of precision driving with precision dancing.
Set against the background music of '90s era UK hit single 'Incredible' by M-Beat featuring General Levy, the brilliantly choreographed moves here took six weeks of rehearsals to perfect. Every movement in this minute-long commercial is intended to point to Honda's prowess in precision engineering, before ending with the line 'Precisely, Pleasingly, Perfect.'
Just watch the ad below.
We couldn't agree more. We have sung enough praises for the
Honda HR-V already in our review
. There is just nothing else on the market that compares to it, and we especially love its brilliantly space-efficient cabin.
There are also several more videos of the same theme, each promoting specific features of the HR-V. If you are wondering why the engine note sounds a lot rougher than usual, that's because in the UK, the HR-V is mostly sold with a 1.6-litre i-DTEC diesel engine.
Related:

From CR-X to the HR-V, Honda Celebrates Some of Their Icons in This Neat Ad


Bangkok 2017: Volvo XC60 T8 Showcased, Malaysia Debut in Q1 2018

At the ongoing 2017 Thailand International Motor Expo, Volvo Cars Thailand showcased the all-new XC60 in both diesel D4 and petrol-electric plug-in hybrid T8 variants.
We posted photos of the D4 earlier, though that model is not likely headed to Malaysia. Between the two, it is the T8 that is relevant to Malaysia, as that model is expected to be launched in Malaysia in early 2018.
For the Malaysian market, we understand that dealers have started to receive bookings for the all-new XC60 in both T5 and T8 variants.
The range-topping Volvo XC60 T8 pictured here is powered by a 2.0-litre twincharged engine mated to an electric motor for a combined system output of 407 hp and 400 Nm. Drive is sent to all four wheels. 0-100 km/h takes just 5.3 seconds, with top speed rated at 230 km/h.
Apart from the XC60 T8, the second variant is the lower-range T5, featuring a 2-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine that does 254 hp and 350 Nm, mated to an eight-speed Geartronic automatic. 0-100 km/h is done in 6.8 seconds, while top speed of the XC60 T5 is rated at 220 km/h.
When the fully-imported XC60 arrives in Q1 2018, we expect the entry-level T5 likely to be priced below RM350k, while the T8 Twin Engine could be priced closer to the RM400k mark. CKD operations for the all-new XC60 are expected to start later in 2018.


Is There A Way To Get Your Proton X50 Faster? We Find Out.

These last few days have seen rampant rumours surrounding the Proton X50, specifically on social media regarding the long waiting list and salesmen 'forcing' customers into selecting the optional accessories in order to get the cars faster. So we at Carlist.my, did our very own Operasi Siasat.

While Proton has come out with a statement to specifically deny any allegations of salesmen forcing customers into picking accessory packages if they want their
X50 to arrive sooner
 - you can't fault someone for believing it to be the case. It is a very common sales tactic, regardless of the actual waiting list or not. Just go onto the X50 group on Facebook and you'll see posts daily about this.

To find out whether this was really the case, we decided to do a bit of operasi siasat ourselves and called up ten different Proton dealers in the Klang Valley. The question was simple - how long would
we have to wait for an X50
, and was there any way to get it quicker? We weren't on a witch hunt or out to disprove Proton's claim, but rather to get an understanding of the situation on the ground.

Seven of the dealers we called flat-out said there was no way to get an X50 more quickly than the stipulated 3 to 6 months. We mean this in the sense that there is no disingenuity or attempt to upsell us, and they were completely candid about their position and that there would be no preferential treatment.

Of the remaining three dealers, one said we could potentially get an X50 by December with an accessory package, but failed to elaborate beyond this.

The last two dealers provided far more insight into the process and helped us understand why this rumour is potentially true. Often times there is some form of miscommunication or a salesman may be hurried such that they may not be able to explain the reasoning behind certain statements, and both of these dealers said that it was theoretically possible to have the X50 in our hands by December or January.

The first dealer stated that in order to do so, it would have to be the right choice of colour - which checks out because dealers don't necessarily get all of the cars that they ask for. This is something that's known as allocation, where dealers will get the models sent to them by the factory but won't always be able to choose what they get. In that sense, picking a colour that's a little less popular may mean that we could get the car earlier if the stock comes in and there are no pre-orders for it.

The last dealer on our list went into further detail, explaining that the reason for such a long waiting period was because the number of orders (at least at this particular dealership) was over 200 units, and they were receiving roughly the same number of units from the factory. The larger issue is that production numbers for the X50 has been heavily skewed towards their flagship models, which in turn means that those looking to buy the
entry level or cheaper variants
 may have to wait even longer.

In conclusion, one out of the ten dealers we called said we could get our Proton X50 faster if we opted for the accessory package. Seven flat out said no and two said potentially yes given that you pick the right color and variant.

This lends some credence to the idea that salesmen are trying to "upsell" customers, but in reality it may just be the case with how units are allocated such that the dealership simply can't get cheaper X50s in time for customers.


Beijing 2018: All-New Lexus ES Debuts, First Time Offered With F Sport

The wraps are off for yet another earlier-teased vehicle. Lexus, at the Beijing Autoshow 2018, has unveiled the first details of the vehicle that bore the company’s new spindle design – the all-new Lexus ES.
The seventh-generation Lexus ES continues to be front-wheel drive and also share many underpinnings with Toyota’s new flagship sedan in the USA, the Toyota Avalon. Built on the all-new TNGA K-platform (also in the new Avalon and new Camry), the new Lexus ES is significantly longer (+66mm) and wider (+45mm) compared to the sixth generation.
The larger body size allows for a more dynamic exterior design that emphasizes a sloping roofline and even better driving performance through the sophisticated multi-link rear suspension.
Up front, vertical bars are now a prominent feature the new spindle grille design. In higher specification variants, the front head lamps uses 24 individual LEDs to provide an adaptive lighting solution that both illuminates the front better while not glaring the oncoming traffic.
The LED tail lamps meanwhile extend deeper into the quarter panels to provide a continuous styling line when viewed from any angle. Wheel sizes range from 17-inch to 19-inch.
Inside, more space has been created through a longer wheelbase (+50mm). The instrument panel meanwhile is the latest iteration of Lexus Future Interior concept, which blends a driver-centric cockpit with a spacious and comfortable front passenger area. As featured in previous models, the meter hood has two rotary switches at the sides, with a central digital display housed beneath the hood.
A free-standing infotainment display (available in 12.3-inch or 8-inch) with Apple CarPlay connectivity sits atop the air conditioning vents, with Shimamoku wood trim placed alongside it.
Occupants at the rear enjoy improved comfort levels through the lower hip point as well as uncompromised head room with a carefully configured headliner.
Complementing the new TNGA K-platform is a range of new engines. The new ES will be available with three engine choices - a V6, an in-line four and a self-charging hybrid. The range-topping ES 350 will feature the company’s signature 3.5-litre V6 that develops 300 hp and 354 Nm of torque. The V6 engine is also mated to a new compact 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission.
While no performance details were given, the new 2.5-litre Dynamic Force Engine in-line four that delivers up to 206 hp and 251 Nm of torque should be found under the bonnet of the ES 250. This is a significant jump in output versus the old 2AR-FE engine found in the outgoing generation, which only delivered 181 hp and 235 Nm.
The self-charging hybrid in the ES 300h meanwhile offers the latest hybrid powertrain that delivers a combined system output of 205 hp. The electric motors deliver up to 120 hp of power.
The team lead by Chief Engineer Yasuhiro Sakakibara had one clear goal: transform the image of the ES into one that is capable of delivering responsive handling and power.
The high rigidity TNGA K-platform is manufactured with various strength-adding features such as multi-grade high tensile steel and a rear-mounted V-brace to deliver a torsional rigidity that is almost similar to the chassis in the LC Coupe and LS sedan.
The new Lexus ES will also introduce an F Sport model for the first time in the ES line-up. F Sport exterior upgrades includes the spindle grille design, rear spoiler, rear bumper with diffuser look and gorgeous 19-inch wheels.  Adaptive Variable Suspension that automatically adjust to 650 levels of damping force is also exclusively paired with the F Sport model. The interior also features a trim inspired by Japanese swordmaking technique as well as sports-type front seats.
Safety equipment wise, the new Lexus ES will be available with the new Lexus Safety System + 2.0. Among the new features in this advanced driving assistance system is the sensor’s ability to detect cyclists during daytime and provide intervention should there be a condition.
Being an important product to both the company and dealers worldwide, the new Lexus ES will be available on sale in USA this September and other markets to follow later.


New Car Launches For 2019- Premium Brands

The sales of new vehicles in the premium segment is at an all-time high, with a market share of above 5% last year (over 30,000 units)! Based on Carlist.my’s coverage of new product launches in 2018, the premium segment in Malaysia introduced over 50 new models and variants, and we can expect the same amount this year.
BMW
It looks like the introduction of all-new models are going to keep the team at BMW Group Malaysia very busy. In fact, two models that core to the company- the G20 3 Series and the G05 X5 are slated to have new generations to recapture market share and perhaps leadership.
The
all-new 3 series
 has grown in size as well as significant increase in interior features and technology. The model is expected to be launched in Q2 this year.
Meanwhile, the
all-new X5
 is expected to arrive at our shores in Q3 this year. Key highlights in the new generation SUV include more space and comfort levels.
We could also see BMW Malaysia introducing not one, but two sports cars- the all-new
 G15 8 Series
 and the all-new G24 Z4.
We also expect BMW to introduce an updated 7 Series, albeit much later in the year.
Mercedes-Benz
Back in 2012, the new generation compact car range from Mercedes-Benz shook the automotive world. Six years had passed and the successful models now undergo a significant change that features more style, more technology, and better practicality.
After introducing the all-new Mercedes-Benz A-Class globally, the company unveiled a sedan version of the energetic hatchback.
Just a few days ago, Mercedes-Benz introduced the
all-new CLA coupe
. Based on Carlist.my’s intelligence, both stylish three-box body types will be made available, however, the sedan could have a larger appeal.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia is also expected to continue to aggressively market the AMG performance brand and we can expect the 639-horsepower Mercedes-AMG GT 4 Door to make its appearance here.
Lexus
Much of the sales growth at Lexus over the past few years has been contributed by the more accessible Lexus ES model.
The
new generation ES
 is now larger and yet, set up to deliver more driving enjoyment.
Lexus has also moved their benchmark of the ES to the mid-size premium sedans (for example- E-Class, 5 Series, Audi A6), and as such, the retail prices of the new sedan will not be at previous levels.
We hear the company is expected to release details on the new sedan very soon.
The Lexus UX
 meanwhile is expected to be launched later into the first quarter. Prices and specifications are yet to be finalized as the preview vehicle at KLIMS 2018 was a global display asset, with the steering wheel on the left-hand side.
Both of these all-new models were previewed at KLIMS 2018 back in November.
Audi SUV range
The Audi range of products is set to be rejuvenated this year, thanks to the effort from Audi Singapore, who are now managing the business here in Malaysia.
The company has said that it
 will be focusing on SUV models
, and thus, we certainly can expect the all-new Q5 to be made available for sale soon. Audi Malaysia is also currently doing an exclusive preview on the aforementioned Q5 and Q2 at its sales network across the nation.
We do not expect the
all-electric e-
tron
 to arrive into Malaysia so soon, as the high capacity electric charging infrastructure is near non-existent here. The stylish Q8 is definitely more realistic. What do you think about
the new Audi Q3
, which resembles a scaled-down e-tron. Let's hope that makes it to Malaysia soon too!

When the current generation Audi TT was launched back in 2015, supply could not keep up with the strong demand. Audi has updated the iconic coupe, and perhaps, they could also use the new TT to further inject new energy and spirit back into the brand.
Porsche
The
facelifted Macan
 has made its debut in Thailand recently. There is no reason why the updated volume contributor for Porsche won’t be introduced within this quarter.
Meanwhile, we can expect the all-new 911 (992-generation) to appear at a highly-dynamic launch venue such as Sepang Circuit in the second half of the year.
Volvo S60 and V60
Volvo Cars has completed the introduction of new generations of their XC range of models (XC90, XC60, and XC40). The focus now on the all-new S60.
While the market is shifting towards the consumption of SUVs, sedans are still much in demand. The
all-new Volvo S60 and V60
, expected to be launched in the second half of 2019, has plenty of emotional appeal to keep the brand on a growth trend in Malaysia.
Jaguar Land Rover
Jaguar, apart from Audi, also previewed a new model at a recent sales event in Shah Alam. The
compact E Pace
will offer consumers who are shopping for a Lexus NX or Volvo XC40 a new option to consider.
Jaguar also needs to compete internally with the
 all-new Range Rover Evoque
. The junior Range Rover is set to make a debut in the second half of the year.
Looking for something more mainstream? We have collated some of
 the key new products expected to arrive this year here.