Bosch Experience Day 2019: Celebrating 96 Years Of Bosch In Malaysia

Bosch Malaysia, a global supplier of technology solutions, today celebrated 96 years of brand presence in the Malaysian market, where guests were given an up-close and personal look at some of the company’s various new products and solutions and their widespread applications for a multitude of local businesses and industries.
Simon Song, Managing Director of Bosch Malaysia added, “Since 1919 in Southeast Asia (first in Surabaya, Indonesia) and 1923 in Malaysia, Bosch has one ultimate aim – to enhance the quality of life through technology and innovation,"
"As we stand on the cusp of completing nearly a century of innovation in Malaysia, we at Bosch will stay committed to strengthening our efforts in providing solutions for homes and businesses."
A key area of focus for Bosch is the implementation of Industry 4.0 and Internet of Things (IOT) technologies and mobility solutions. Industry 4.0 focusses on the digital transformation of the Malaysian manufacturing sector and its related services and integrating cyber-physical systems into the manufacturing process.
To further strengthen the Industry 4.0 infrastructure in Malaysia, Bosch offers an array of products including sensors, IOT Gateways, kinematic (APAS) robots, Active Assist systems, and Modular Mechatronic Systems and software.
Alongside, Bosch presented various other products and services from the home and living, power tools, automotive aftermarket, automotive OEM, building services, and thermo-technology divisions.
The Bosch Experience Days also saw the launch of the company's latest Instantaneous Water Heater range – Malaysia is the first market in Malaysia to receive the Tronic (3000s, 6000s, and 8000s) range of residential water heater systems. The entire Tronic range is available at the
Bosch Flagship Store
 on Lazada.


LEAKED: All-New 2016 Toyota Prius Reveals Its Styling And PHEV Variant

The all-new
Toyota Prius
 is expected to make its global debut at this year’s Tokyo Motor Show in October-November. However, leaked images of what is claimed to be the next-generation hybrid vehicle have made their way online.
Sourced from a Taiwanese website
mobile.autonet.com.tw
, the images depict the new Prius with its familiar hatchback design, with styling elements adopted from more recent
Toyota
 designs, with heavy influences from the hydrogen fuel cell powered Mirai.
The site claims that both the standard hybrid version and a plug-in hybrid version is shown. Our guess is the one in silver would be the hybrid while the blue coloured Prius is the plug-in hybrid version based on the badging on the fenders of both vehicle. Identifiers also includes a different front fascia between the two models and both headlamp designs.
In terms of dimensions, the new car is both longer and wider, measuring 4,550mm x 1,770mm x 1,490mm (LxWxH) compared to the current 4480mm × 1745mm × 1490mm although the 2,700mm wheelbase is unchanged. As for weight, the new car is reported to be lighter (1,280kg) while its PHEV model weighs in at 1,350kg.
Test vehicles of the next-generation
Prius
 have been spotted in the
United States
 and even
Thailand
 where it is said the vehicle, codenamed 690A, will use an updated version of its Hybrid Synergy drive system. Reportedly a 1.8-litre DOHC VVT-i inline four-cylinder petrol engine with electrical assistance, the engine is said to features an electric water pump, cool EGR exhaust gas recirculation system and exhaust heat recovery system to increase fuel efficiency and reduce engine warm-up time.
Paired to a CVT transmission, the report claims that total power output has increased to around 145hp with four driving modes on offer – Normal, Power, Eco, and EV.


VIDEO: Biker Keeps His Cool After Getting Whacked From Behind, Checks If Driver Is Alright

We can’t always predict when an accident will occur whilst we’re on the road. However, we can, at the best of times, control how we react to it. This video, which was shot by using a helmet-mounted camera, of a motorcyclist being rear-ended by car, clearly demonstrates the classy cool of one man in such times.
The motorcyclist in this video is Matthew Sant, who was travelling around Canberrra, Australia in an 80 km/h zone. Mr. Sant soon noticed that traffic was building up ahead of him and came to a stop. He was even considerate enough to check his mirror and moved to the right of the road just in case the car behind him wasn’t paying attention.
Thankfully, the person did and Mr. Sant waited for his chance to move. Little did he know that three cars back, another driver did not stop in time, causing a pile-up that ended with Matthew’s motorcycle being hit, sending him to the ground.
Unhurt, Matthew got up and checked the condition of his bike that was now wedged against the car behind him. Now, having done nothing wrong, you’d think he would really want to give a piece of his mind or more, if he were Malaysian, to those that got him into this situation. Instead, calmly, he checks on the other drivers to make sure that no one was hurt and even introduced himself to the other drivers, rather than going mental on them.
Makes you wonder, doesn't it? If we all could only replicate the patience and calm-under-pressure attitude of Mr Sant, Malaysian roads ought to be a whole lot safer to drive on.


2017 Weststar Maxus G10 SE Launched In Malaysia; 10-Seater, 2.0T, 225hp, RM158k

Weststar Maxus Sdn Bhd has launched an upgraded SE variant of its Maxus G10 large multi-purpose vehicle. The Chinese-made 10-seater was introduced into the Malaysian market in 2016; this updated variant adds a number of new features to give even better value to its consumers.
A product of Shanghai-based SAIC Maxus Automotive, the G10 is a direct challenger to the
Hyundai Grand Starex Royale
, which offers seating capacity for 11 people from RM164k onwards. The Maxus G10, on the other hand, can be yours for RM157,888 with insurance for individual private registration.
Unusual for an MPV of its size, the G10 is powered by a petrol engine, one displacing two litres and turbocharged to provide outputs of 225hp and 345Nm. Don’t be fooled by the engine cover’s transverse orientation though, the block beneath sits length-wise and sends drive astern through ZF’s 6HP 6-speed automatic transmission.
New features in the G10 SE include double panoramic glass roof, powered sliding doors with anti-pinch on both sides, and an uprated Car-Link infotainment system that includes a 360-degree camera system.
The company brochures cheekily describe a 15-inch touchscreen, but do be warned that the actual touch area covers only a fraction of the free-standing screen’s space – a big chunk of space is taken up by a digital clock.
For safety, the G10 SE adopts the latest generation ESP9.1 electronic stability control system from Bosch, in addition to existing features such as ABS, EBD, dual airbags, and ISOFIX mounts.
Other noteworthy features include:
HID headlamps with LED daytime running lights
LED tail lights
Keyless entry, engine start button
Multifunction steering wheel
Anti-glare rearview mirror
Cruise control
Parking sensors – front and rear
Bluetooth
220V 3-point plug
Rear air-conditioning with split control
Available for viewing at Weststar Maxus showrooms across the country, the G10 SE is available with a choice of three colours – Obsidian Back, Blanc White, and Aurora Silver – and comes with a 3-year warranty.


Budget 2017: RM4,000 Rebate To Purchase Proton Iriz For Uber/Grab Drivers

The Government is officially encouraging the people, particularly those from the low income group,
to drive with ride-sharing apps such as Uber and Grab
 to generate additional income, going as far subsidizing the purchase of a new vehicle for those who do not currently own one.
“Their income could reach up to RM1,500 per month for part time drivers working between 10 to 40 hours per week and RM4,300 if more than 40 hours per week,” said the Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Najib Tun Razak in his speech presenting the 2017 National Budget
Individuals who qualify for aid in the 1Malaysia People’s Aid (BR1M) scheme can opt to use their handout as downpayment with a rebate of RM4,000 provided for the purchase of a
Proton Iriz
.
For 2017, the Government is providing BR1M as follows:
RM1,200 for households earning below RM3,000
RM900 for households earning RM3,000 to RM4,000
RM450 for individuals earning below RM2,000
Taxi drivers
 are also provided for in the Budget, with some 12,000 of them who have ended their leasing contracts with taxi companies set to get individual taxi permits and a grant of RM5,000 to purchase new vehicles.


Bridgestone Ecopia EP200 Tyre Review

The weather in the past few weeks have been extremely wet. Certain parts of Peninsular Malaysia have been experiencing thunderstorms and flash floods almost every other evening, which brings us to our timely public service announcement – when was the last time you’ve checked your tyres?
Those black, round rubbers on our cars don’t look like much, but those four patches of rubber – each no bigger than the size of your palm - are the only thing that is keeping your car safely planted on the road. All of the world’s most advanced automotive safety system fitted on a car would be rendered useless if these patches of rubber fail to provide sufficient traction, so never ever try to skimp on tyres.
I for one, usually replace my tyres even before the tread wears down to their tread wear indicator, as research has shown that a tyre’s braking performance diminishes considerably even though the depth of the tread pattern is still within legal limits.
So when it was time to replace my set of Goodyear Excellence tyres, I decided to give the Bridgestone Ecopia EP200 a try. I have had a brief experience with the Ecopia EP200 back in 2013, at the Bridgestone Proving Ground in Ayutthaya, Thailand, and came back pretty impressed with it.
My requirements were simple – the tyres had to deliver a balanced performance on all weather conditions. I am pretty relaxed driver, and the tyres will be fitted on a rather mundane Toyota Prius, so it didn’t have to grip like a Potenza RE003. It however, needs to have low rolling resistance without any compromise in noise, cornering grip, and wet weather performance.
Having a balanced, all-round performance is very important to me. I’ve had a set of Continental Comfort Contact CC5 on another car before but that was a one-hit wonder tyre – good at delivering a quiet ride but is below average in all other aspects. The Goodyear Excellence had pretty good grip on wet surfaces, but was rather noisy. I am not interested in a tyre that’s good at only one specific area, so I was hoping that the Bridgestone will deliver a more well- balanced performance.
Many have the misconception that low rolling resistance tyres have poor braking performance but in truth, the opposite of low rolling resistance is actually noise and ride comfort. Apart from heat, energy from a rolling tyre is lost every time the tyre deforms as it rolls along the changing road surface.
To combat this, silica is commonly added to reduce the likelihood of tyre deformation. However, this can also makes the tyre to be a little too stiff, emits higher noise than usual, and heats up faster.
I am happy to note that the Ecopia exhibits none of the drawbacks commonly associated with eco tyres, thanks to Bridgestone’s proprietary Nano Pro Tech compound, which uses nanotechnology to literally modify the arrangements of the tyre compound’s molecular structure to minimise the common drawbacks when silica content is increased.
On rougher stretches of tarmac, the new set of Bridgestones were noticeably quieter than my previous Goodyears.
The ride is also slightly less stiff, but throw it into a sequence of fast slalom style hard left-right turns, the sidewalls will bend rather quickly, exaggerating whatever understeer tendencies that the car has.
It’s definitely no Potenza RE003, but that’s a rather extreme driving condition, done in the name of science. As far as everyday driving is concerned, I have no complaints about its road holding even on fast sweeping corners.
On paper, Bridgestone’s internal test data shows that the Ecopia EP200 cuts rolling resistance by 8.1 percent (compared to a regular Bridgestone Turanza AR10 tyre).
In real-world driving conditions, a smaller three to five percent improvement in fuel economy is more realistic. In theory, higher improvements are possible but this would require some adjustments in driving habits. Having gotten used to the typical coasting distance of the Goodyears, I noticed that I had to make some adjustments to my throttle control, lifting off earlier to make better use of the Ecopia’s superior coasting distance.
My previous set of Goodyears were rather average in terms of comfort, but I was quite satisfied with its performance on wet surfaces. Having driven under some rather wet conditions with the Ecopia EP200, I am pleased to say that the Bridgestone’s performance in the wet didn’t left me wanting for more. Short of comparing them on a skidpad, it’s hard to tell which is superior, but the Bridgestone is definitely comparable to my previous Goodyears in the wet – a typical forte of Goodyear tyres.
Overall, I am very pleased with the Ecopia EP200. In fact, this is the third car in my household to use Bridgestone Ecopia EP200. With their good all-rounded performance, there is little reason to look elsewhere, unless you are looking for something that’s a bit more focused on driving performance. If that’s the case then we would recommend that you look towards the Michelin Pilot Sport 3 or Bridgestone Potenza RE003 – both offer very good value for money and sporty driving performance.
If you are looking a mid-range class tyre that’s not too expensive, while delivering good performance in all key areas, the Ecopia EP200 is highly recommended. Prices start from RM215 for 195/55 R15 size, to RM492 for 215/55 R17 size.


2015 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid Launched In Malaysia: RM349k

Aha! After much anticipation,
Mercedes-Benz
 Malaysia has finally, and officially, launched the new 2015 Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid.
Locally assembled at MBM’s production facility in Pekan, Pahang alongside various
C-
,
E-
 and
S-Class
variants, the E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid is also the first diesel-hybrid vehicle to go on sale in Malaysia, let alone be the first Mercedes-Benz diesel to launch here since the company broke the news to us that it
would return to selling diesel models
.
And as you may have already guessed it, import and excise duty exemptions are in order, as per the
National Automotive Policy 2014
, which grants special incentives to locally-assembled hybrid models. Presumably, the exemptions should remain in order, at least until the NAP 2014 expires at the end of this year (Dec 31st, 2015).
KEY SPECS: 2015 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E
300
 BlueTEC Hybrid
Price:
RM348,888
Engine: 2.1-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel
Electric Motor: 20kW, 250Nm of torque
Traction Battery: Lithium-ion, 19kW/ 0.8kWh
Transmission: 7G-TRONIC PLUS Seven-speed torque converter automatic
Electric Driving Range: 1km, up to 35km/h
Power: 204hp (total system output)
Torque: 500Nm (total system output)
0-100km/h: 7.1 seconds
Top Speed: 242km/h
Fuel consumption: 4.1-litres/100km (claimed, NEDC test cycle)
CO2 Emissions: 109g/km
So, what is it?
In short, the E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid is equipped with all the fittings and equipment of the range-topping E-Class
(E 400 Avantgarde, RM493,888),
 but for a new hybrid powertrain – which is for the first time in a very long time for MBM, a diesel. For a fair scale comparison, BMW's 5 Series 520d comes to mind, but with poorer spec to note on paper, and a price tag of RM354,800, there's apparently a lot less to tear you away from the Mercedes-Benz solution.
The 2.1-litre four-cylinder engine is accompanied by Mercedes-Benz’s transferable modular hybrid system, and the result is a far more fuel-efficient and powerful vehicle, configured to run on our current Euro 2M diesel standard - Euro 5 diesel, available only in Johor for the moment, does nothing but improve performance.
Apart from the performance and efficiency gains, the hybridisation of the E 300 also gives it a bit more comfort, courtesy of its ability to drive off from standstill in full electric mode - although, full electric driving is only available for a claimed range of 1km, up to 35km/h.
The purpose of the 20kW electric motor and 19kWh lithium-ion traction battery leans more toward assisting the diesel engine’s performance, and powering the car’s general electrics (steering, brakes, refrigerant compressor) throughout its ECO start/stop conditions. Speaking of which, “sailing” is also possible with the E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid, which switches off its engine while coasting under speeds of 160km/h, relying solely on electric power to maintain its speed.
Just like we saw on the recent
S-Class Plug-In Hybrid
, the E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid can use the deceleration of the electric motor to slow down the car when the brake pedal is depressed lightly – completely free of any brake pad usage. Only when the pedal is depressed a little harder do the wheel brakes actually take action to stop the car.
The electric motor itself is located within the 7G-TRONIC Plus automatic transmission, and displaces the hydraulic torque converter (taking up just 65mm more space). It also brings with it a wet-type clutch unit. The lithium-ion battery sits in the engine bay (you can spot it to your top right when facing the engine bay directly), displacing the conventional 12v battery which is relocated to the boot of the vehicle, and serves as back-up power if needed.
What else do you get?
As is the case with the
E 400
, the E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid is equipped with an AMG Sports package, which tables 18-inch five-dual-spoke alloy wheels, AMG body styling (front-end, bumpers, rear aprons and side skirts), a twin-exhaust system with rectangular stainless steel pipes, AMG Sport steering wheel with paddle shifters, brushed stainless steel sports pedals, AMG velour floor mats and then some.
For interior equipment and features, the E 400 is again matched by the E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid, which standardises a surround-view camera, COMAND Online multimedia system with a seven-inch high-res colour display, and the Rear Seat Entertainment System (two eight-inch display screens integrated into the back of each of the front headrests, and a set of wireless headphones).
The one big difference between the E 300 and the E 400 where interior matters, is that the dark wood-grain trim design used for the E 400, is replaced by a silver/metal finish in the E 300 hybrid.
Safety is no compromise as well, which sees the E 300 equipped with Merc’s COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST with brake assist, ATTENTION ASSIST, and Active Parking Assist (enables automated parking with active steering and brake control for both parallel and end-on spaces).
Buyer’s Guide:
Theoretically, the E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid slots in the local E-Class range between the E 250 (RM405,888) and the E 400 (RM493,888). But as you may have noticed, this hybrid has become the most affordable E-Class officially sold in Malaysia, even under-cutting the E 200 (RM366,888) by a good RM18,000.
And you’d be terribly mistaken for thinking that some spec has been slashed here: as mentioned, everything seen on the highest-spec E-Class (E 400) is retained as standard equipment, despite being RM145,000 cheaper than the E 400. And to add to the merriment, you have the claimed driving range of up to 1944km on a single tank of fuel (the larger 80km tank is spec-ed for our local models). Yes, the fuel claims are a bit immense, but they’ve already proven it once on a
documented trip from North Africa to the UK
, and as we understand it, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia are working on a way to demonstrate the claims locally, with members of the media involved. Needless to say, we’re quite excited about that possibility.


2022 Maserati Grecale SUV Previewed In Malaysia - Three Variants On Offer

Naza Italia, the official custodian for Maserati here in Malaysia, has unveiled the brand's latest model offering, the
2022 Maserati Grecale
. This "Everyday Exceptional" luxury SUV and a completely new model from the Italian marque is considered the first stage of the brand's
move to EV
 using the Grecale platform that'll take place sometime next year.

With that being said, here is the lowdown on the new 2022 Maserati Grecale.

Three Variants On Offer

Before that electrification comes into play, the present model offering for the Maserati Grecale comes in three different variants - GT, Modena, and the range-topping Trofeo. Developed and manufactured in Italy, the Maserati Grecale is considered to be stiff competition against other models within the luxury SUV segment, particularly the Porsche Macan.

All three models basically offer different specs all around, from the exterior design, interior equipment, and right down to firepower within that elongated front hood. In other words, the Maserati Grecale is an SUV for those with deep pockets as well a taste for the finer things in life, especially if they have their eyes on the Trofeo.

MC20 Inspired Design

Embracing Maserati's new design language and visual symbol, the Grecale SUV carries a lot of design inspirations and elements from the brand's highly-regarded supercar, the MC20, but with more everyday usability as well as practicality. But that doesn't mean that they can't make the Grecale look sexy.

The front end features a low-hanging and concaved grille that's also inspired by the MC20. Smooth line and fluidity from front to rear showcase the brand's designing skills that feels more like an MC20 that transformed into an SUV rather than an SUV that was heavily inspired by the MC20, if that makes any sense.

Going through the range, the GT rides on a set of 19-inch wheels, followed by the Modena and its 20-inch setup, and ends with a set of 21-inch beauties on the Trofeo. As for dimensions, all three models are slightly different thanks to a slightly wider rear wheel track for the Modena compared to the GT, and even more so for the Trofeo.

Three variants - three different powertrains

The model on show today was the range-topping Grecale Trofeo, which is fitted with a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 engine that produces 530hp @ 6,500rpm and 620Nm of torque from 3,000rpm. This unit is actually the same engine that can be found in the MC20 but has been revised to accommodate the brand's latest SUV offering.

If you want to save money on road tax, then you can opt for either the GT or Modena which is fitted with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine that churns out 300hp and 330hp respectively. All three models come with an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission but different ratios to suit each model. There's an electronic self-locking rear differential for the Trofeo and a mechanical unit for the Modena (also available as an option for the GT).

Does the Grecale go offroad?

Despite looking like a modern-day city-dwelling Italian beauty with its huge screens and digitised analogue clock (a first in Maserati), the Grecale can actually handle minor off-road driving situations. All three variants have four different driving modes - Comfort, GT, Sport, and Offroad.

If you opt for the Trofeo, you'll get an extra 'Corsa' mode for those who are feeling a bit frisky and want to take it onto the track. Just a little something extra for you to enjoy all of its 530hp to the fullest.

Multi-Dimensional Audio System

If audio quality is a thing of priority, the Grecale has got that covered with a set of premium Italian Sonus Faber multi-dimensional audio system. A total of 14 speakers help to blast out superior quality tunes for all occupants, but if you get the Trofeo, that number is bumped up to 21.

So far, there's no mention of pricing just yet (that will only happen sometime in Q3 2022), but Naza Italia has received quite a number of bookings for the Maserati Grecale. For the initial launch, the GT model comes in Bronzo Opaco, while the Modena is available in Grigio Cangiante. The Trofeo? Giallo Corse.


Kota Kinabalu Police Hand Out 107 Summonses In Five Hour Operation

City police in the Sabah capital Kota Kinabalu has issued a total of 107 summonses for a number of offences during an operation
conducted over the weekend
 dubbed ‘Op Samseng and mabuk’.
Bernama reports that the primary aim was to nab road users who were operating their vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, among other violations.
City police chief ACP M.Chandra said in a statement, "Four motorcyclists and a motorist were also detained under Section 60 of the Road Transport Act 1987."
Chandra also said that the operation was conducted over a five hour period, involving an officer and 16 personnel, from 11.30pm on Saturday, June 27 to 4am on Sunday, June 28.
Over 40 vehicles and motorcycles were inspected in the operation resulting in 42 individuals being screened, including two women.


Top 5 Most Popular Used Premium Cars

Resale value is one of the most important aspects of buying a new car, besides perhaps the sale price and overall maintenance costs of the vehicle.

So there's little wonder why local and Japanese models dominate the used car market in terms of resale value and overall demand.

Brand perception is a powerful thing!

Hence while cars such as Honda and Perodua are sought after on the used market for their practicality, rock-solid reliability, and ease of maintenance, premium cars are sought after for their prestige, design, sublime interiors, and driving performance.

We recently collated the
Top 5 used local and Japanese cars
, ranked according to total searches (and measured their relative value retention) on our Carlist.my website. While there was little surprise why the Perodua Myvi and Honda Civic ranked so high on our list, we thought it would be cool to find out which premium vehicles enjoyed similar levels of popularity.

Good demand for cars, depending on overall desirability, brand presence, and brand perception - typically dictate market sentiment and ensure that a particular vehicle will hold decent value down the line.

In most cases, the (increased) rate of depreciation of premium cars, makes them remarkably attainable for most buyers even after a few years - sometimes even matching prices of much cheaper (when new) Japanese/local cars on the used market.

This could be a secondary contributor to why some cars that aren't too popular when new become sought after once on the used market.

The list below was collated using search data (over the past six months) on our Carlist.my Classifieds section; the results were varied, to say the least.

In all cases, our data is collated on used cars between 4-6 years old. Ranked by ascending search results.

No.5: Volkswagen Passat

The Volkswagen Passat has earned itself a reputation as a value for money and well-built alternative to the likes of the Mazda 6 and Toyota Camry.

Featuring spacious seating for five, superb handling and composure, and quite possibly, the most powerful drivetrain in its time - the Passat has a lot to offer.

With prices ranging
between RM45k and RM55k
, they're a bargain compared to what they cost brand new.

2015 Volkswagen Passat 1.8 TSI

Price when new: RM170,888

Price range now: RM45,000 - RM55,000

Retained used price percentage: 26% - 32%

No.4: Audi TT

The Audi TT has is known for its iconic (and unique) design and potent driving performance. In its third-generation - first launched here in 2015 - the TT received a comprehensive restyle, featuring more angular proportions and aggressive design detail, much like its more powerful sibling, the R8.

Under the hood is the 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder which outputs 230 hp and 370 Nm; mated to Audi's six-speed dual-clutch S-Tronic gearbox. Performance is brisk, to say the least: 0-100 km/h in 5.9 seconds, a top speed of 250 km/h.

On the inside, the TT sports Audi's Virtual Cockpit with offers up a sublime 12.3" TFT-LCD cluster, set amidst a minimalist and well-built cockpit.

Rarity and timeless design also mean the TT commands
good demand and retains value handsomely
.

2015 Audi TT 2.0 TFSI

Price when new: RM284,900

Price range now: RM157,000 - RM170,000

Retained used price percentage: 55% - 60%

No.3: Ford Mustang

The Ford Mustang was quite possibly the biggest surprise on our list, though once you consider the price of used Mustangs, one can pretty much surmise why - there is no other car which packs so much cool and street presence for the same money.

Though it must be said, that the Mustang was first launched here in 2016 so the cars listed (between 2015-2017) are a mixed-bag of
locally sold or grey imported units
.

Though the most popular variant searched seems to be the full-monty 5.0-litre "Coyote" V8 which outputs 416 PS and 530 Nm at 4,250 rpm. Which is understandable given the raw soundtrack its cross-plane V8 makes.

Though it's a sports car, the Mustang is rather spacious on the inside - it'll carry four in relative comfort and eschews futuristic trappings for a retrospective cockpit design.

2015/16 Ford Mustang 5.0L GT

Price when new: RM598,888 ((Local model)

Price range now: RM228,000 - RM288,000 (Local/Grey Import)

Retained used price percentage: 38% - 48%

No.2: Mercedes-Benz C200 (W205)

The (W205) Mercedes-Benz C-Class needs no introduction - it's become an icon of superb design both inside and out, and offers up a sublime powertrain package for its retail price.

First launched in 2014, the W205 C-Class was first offered in two engine variants, the C200 and C250 - the former being the clear leader in terms of
used-vehicle demand
.

The C200 features a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with 184 hp and 300 Nm of torque, mated to 7-speed "7G-Tronic" automatic gearbox for decent performance and fuel economy.

On the inside, the C200 featured a superbly designed interior with Merc's Audio 20 CD (with Touchpad) system; later models were equipped with the Comand Online infotainment system.

Mercedes-Benz C200

Price when new: RM285,888

Price range now: RM140,000 - RM175,000

Retained used price percentage: 48% - 61%

No.1: Volkswagen Golf (Mk7)

This Golf was the second surprise of our list, but it would seem that Godfather of the hot-hatch genre still has its fans after all these years - and even in the face of newer rivals.

Not only known for its zesty handling and powerful drivetrains, but the (Mk7) Golf also doubles up as a competent family hatchback which could explain why it leads our list in terms of demand.

Powertrain options include the potent (140 bhp/250 Nm) 1.4L turbocharged TSI, to the 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder in the GTI, that delivers 220 PS and 350 Nm of torque; power is sent to its front wheels through either a 6- or 7-speed (wet) dual-clutch gearbox depending on variant.

The Mk7 GTI also benefits from Volkswagen's XDS+ electronic front differential which further sharpens up handling and power delivery.

2015 Volkswagen Golf GTI (Mk7)

Price when new: RM217,888

Price range now: RM105,000 - RM120,000

Retained used price percentage: 48% - 55%


Proton VS Perodua Price Reductions Post-SST Exemptions Compared

The exemption of the Sales and Service Tax – announced by the government as a stimulus for the automotive industry after the COVID-19 slowdown – has seen car prices drop between 2 and 6 percent,  making this current time the best time to buy a brand new vehicle.

Among the incentives to assist the automotive industries are a 100% sales tax exemption on new completely-knocked-down (CKD) vehicles and a 50% exemption for completely-built-up (CBU) vehicles until the end of the year.

Depending on the vehicle, this stimulus package has resulted in price drops of a few hundred ringgit, to nearly RM45k for certain premium and performance cars. However, the two biggest contributors to the overall Total Industry Volume (TIV) are Proton and Perodua, so we thought it would be wise to compare the price reductions (depending on model) between our two local carmakers to see just how much buyers are benefiting from the tax holiday.

Perodua Axia

Perodua Bezza VS Proton Saga

Perodua Myvi VS Proton Iriz

Proton Persona

Perodua Alza VS Proton Exora

Perodua Aruz

Proton X70

From the data, we see a reduction of between 1 to 6 percent depending on models and variants. The SST tax exemptions are only applicable to passenger vehicles, inclusive of MPVs and SUVs, but does not apply for pickup trucks such as the Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, and Mitsubishi Triton.

Was the reduction significant enough for you to buy a brand new Proton or Perodua?


Vehicle Owners Urged To Remove Unapproved Headlights

Owners of vehicles fitted with non-approved after-market high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights are urged to remove them as the move to ban them will come into effect next year.
According to a report by
The Star
, Road Transport Department (JPJ) Sibu head Faizal David Jamil met Pelawan assemblyman David Wong at the Charity Without Borders event last week, and assured Wong that JPJ will fully enforce the law next year. Wong also said that the enforcement to ban non-approved after-market HID headlights are in line with the statement made by Transport Minister Anthony Loke a couple of weeks ago.
Those caught would face a RM2,000 fine or jailed for up to six months.
Wong added that the bright white light emitted from HID headlights are dangerous to other road users can it could case temporary blindness and possibly accidents. “I have experienced it a few times when my eyes were hurt by the flashing strong lights,” he added.
As for vehicles that come fitted with HID headlights from the factory, Wong advised owners to consult with JPJ for further clarification so that they won’t run foul with the law.


BMW Doubling i8 Production Numbers For The Second Time

Despite costing a very pretty penny, the
BMW
 i8’s sales momentum doesn’t look like it’s about to wane anytime soon. The Munich automaker is struggling to keep pace with ravenous customer demand.
Despite recently upping their factory output volume by 50 percent to 20 cars per day, now it seems that that output is set to double yet again for their Leipzig factory, so says a report by Automobil Produktion. The current waiting period for a buyer to take delivery of his or her new i8 is beyond four months, and it would take far longer if it weren’t for BMW's efforts to slash that figure from where it stood previously: 18 months.
According to the report, BMW’s Chief Development Officer Klaus Fröhlich told Automotive New Europe that the company does not intend to add or significantly alter their ‘i’ line-up until 2020 at the earliest and that the progress of the next-generation vehicle is still in the brainstorming phase, with the company evidently not in a hurry to capitalize on this trove of market demand.
Certainly, they know they’ve got a winner on their hands and it’s now up to BMW’s top brass to weigh their plans for the i8 to remain a low-volume model up against the increasing pressure to satisfy the demands of their many customers willing to part with that much cash for a car unlike any other - an outcome that could singlehandedly up-end the hybrid sports car market out from obscurity and into the mainstream.
As it stands, BMW has sold 17,800 units of both the i3 and i8 during 2014, out of which 1,748 units were i8s. Increasing interest in hybrid and fully electric vehicles are only expected to rise steadily, and at least for now, there’s only one car that fits the mould of this movement's poster child.


Mugen-Tuned Honda S660 Coming Soon With 100HP?

We love the
Honda S660
 but are saddened by the fact that it is only available for sale in Japan for now although rumours of
more powerful S1000
 for export have been swirling around.
Back to the S660 and new reports from Japan by
motoring.com.au
 have revealed that a Mugen-tuned version of the pint-sized roadster will appear by mid-2016. As of now, customers in Japan who order a S660 roadster have the choice to specify their car with Mugen aerodynamic accessories but no option for a power bump of its 660cc turbocharged three-cylinder engine.
The Mugen-spec S660 however is expected to receive a remapped ECU that sees a 60% increase in power from 63hp to 100hp. It may not sound like a lot but in a car as light as 830kg, that’s pretty substantial.
If we were sad by the fact the
Honda
 S660 is a Japan only model for now, this new bit of info makes us want one even more. Just how popular is it? How about a waiting list that stretches to the start of 2016 sound?


Review: 2017 Hyundai Elantra - A Worthy Alternative

If progress is what you’re looking for, then the Hyundai Elantra is right up your alley. Early models were forgettable econoboxes at best, but Hyundai kept plugging on and finally produced an Elantra worthy of our attention, the Elantra MD, in 2010.
In many ways, the Elantra demonstrates the growing maturity of Hyundai as a car company. Gone are the days that Hyundai cars are regarded as a budget alternative to those who can’t afford a Japanese marque. These days, Hyundai produces cars that are on par, if not better than their Japanese counterparts.
Enter the all-new sixth-generation 2017 Hyundai Elantra.
Specifications (2.0 GLS)
Engine: 2.0-litre DOHC, 16-valves, transverse
Transmission: Six-speed automatic, front-wheel drive
Power: 152 PS at 6,200 rpm
Torque: 192 Nm at 4,000 rpm
Safety: Six airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC)
Price: RM120,588 (on the road without insurance)
Specifications (1.6 Sport)
Engine: 1.6-litre T-GDI turbocharged, 16-valves, transverse
Transmission: Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, front-wheel drive
Power: 203 PS at 6,000 rpm
Torque: 264 Nm from 1,500 rpm to 4,500 rpm
Safety: Six airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC)
Price: RM131,488 (on the road without insurance)
Origin: Locally assembled in Kulim, Kedah
Overview
Gone are the swooping lines of the predecessor, now replaced with a far more conservative design that Hyundai calls Fluidic Design 2.0.
The company is offering three variants of the Hyundai Elantra here in Malaysia, two of which utilises a naturally-aspirated 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine paired to a six-speed automatic. Then there’s the Hyundai Elantra Sport, powered by a 1.6-litre T-GDI engine that is paired to a seven-speed DCT.
Powertrain and aesthetics aside, the biggest difference between the regular Elantra and Elantra Sport is the rear suspension set up. On both Elantra 2.0 variants, the rear suspension is of a torsion beam configuration, whilst the more expensive and powerful Elantra Sport utilizes a multilink rear suspension set up.
Exterior
There’s no beating around the bush for the Hyundai Elantra. Both variants of the new model are handsome to look at, with a sharp front end featuring the company’s corporate grille up front.
For the Malaysia market, all variants of the Elantra get 17-inch alloy wheels, with different wheel designs between trim levels.
The more expensive Hyundai Elantra Sport adds HID headlights with LED daytime running lights, five-spoke alloy wheels, a sportier rear diffuser, different tail lights design and dual muffler tips.
Interior
Borrowing heavily from the its Hyundai Sonata, the new Elantra’s interior looks more grown up than the model it replaces.
Out goes the funky curvy interior of the old Elantra, now replaced with a more functional interior with a 7-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, flat-bottom steering wheel with audio switches, drive modes and rear air vents.
Inside the Elantra Sport, Hyundai has chose to deck the interior with red leather upholstery, which can be found on the seats and door trims. Further red highlights can be found on the steering wheel, carpet edges and center arm rest. Additionally, the Elantra Sport also gets dual-zone automatic air-conditioning and paddle shifters.
During our time with both variants of the Hyundai Elantra, we noticed that Android Auto had a tendency of crashing, despite changing phones and cables.
Driving Experience
Apart from its new exterior, driving experience of the Hyundai Elantra has also proved to be rather impressive.
While the base Elantra 2.0’s performance won’t blow any drivers’ socks off, the four-cylinder engine delivers power smoothly and coupled with the refined six-speed automatic, driving does not get tiring.
Despite that, we noticed that the gearbox can get rather reluctant to downshift. Apart from that, sound insulation is generally good, though wind insulation could have been better.
As for the ride comfort, we noticed that the suspension does a fine job of soaking up road irregularities, though the ride does get a bit busier with much rougher roads.
We also understand that Hyundai Sime Darby Motors have chosen to equip Malaysia-assembled Elantras with Australian suspension tuning, allowing the car to actually handle our roads really well.
Moving onto the more powerful Hyundai Elantra Sport and the difference is day and night.
First thing we noticed was the bump is power. With 203 PS and 264 Nm on tap, acceleration takes considerably less effort than its sibling. Coupled with the quick shifting seven-speed DCT, the powertrain alone justifies the price premium over the regular Elantra.
If the power does not convince you, the ride comfort could.
As mentioned earlier, the spicier Elantra Sport is fitted with a rear multilink suspension set up. Here, we noticed that the ride is not as busy as the regular Elantra, yet the Elantra Sport is able to tackle trunk roads with confidence.
Even at higher speeds, we were thoroughly impressed with the Elantra Sport’s road manners. While wind noise may be apparent at higher speeds, the car remained surefooted.
Conclusion
The C-segment sedan market may not be as thriving as it was a couple of years ago, but competition is still very stiff.
From Japan alone, buyers can choose between the Honda Civic, Mazda 3 and Toyota Corolla Altis, each of them with their own merits.
Versus the popular Honda Civic Turbo, the Hyundai Elantra Sport is a viable alternative for those who does not fancy a CVT in a high performance sedan. Ride comfort is still the Civic’s strongpoint.
Another turbocharged option is the Volkswagen Jetta. The Jetta, like the Elantra Sport, uses a downsized turbocharged engine paired to a dual-clutch transmission. The downside is that the Jetta is riding on Volkswagen’s ageing PQ35 platform, not the newer MQB platform.
For all intents and purposes, the Hyundai Elantra is an excellent choice for those wanting something a little less mainstream without any major compromises.


Fuel Price Update: 10th to 16th August - 5 Sen Down For RON 97

The Ministry of Finance Malaysia has announced the updated prices of petrol and diesel fuels starting from the 10th to 16h of August.
The price of RON97 petrol will decrease by 5 sen to RM 2.49 per litre, while the price of RON95 petrol is capped at RM 2.08 per litre.
The price of diesel will remain capped at RM 2.18 per litre for Euro 2M and RM 2.28 for Euro 5 respectively.
In summary, the prices for petrol and diesel are listed below:
RON95 – RM 2.08 per litre (unchanged, capped)
RON97 – RM 2.49 per litre (down 5 sen)
Diesel Euro 2M – RM 2.18 per litre (unchanged, capped)
Diesel Euro 5M – RM 2.28 per litre (unchanged, capped)


Isuzu D-Max Buat Kejutan - Trak Pikap Pertama Raih 5 Bintang Euro NCAP

Meskipun berdepan dengan ujian penilaian keselamatan
Euro NCAP
 yang ketat,
Isuzu D-Max
 telah berjaya meraih skor maksimum sebanyak 5 bintang, sekaligus menjadi trak pikap pertama di dunia yang mendapat skor maksimum untuk ciri keselamatan daripada Euro NCAP!

Kesemua varian model D-Max keluaran terbaru Isuzu ini hadir dengan ciri keselamatan yang tinggi, di samping pemanduan ‘off-road’ yang telah di naik taraf berbanding sebelumnya. Dalam bahasa mudah, trak pikap ini bukan sahaja padu dari segi kekuatan dan ketahanan, malah tahap keselesaan gergasi ini juga dititikberatkan!

Sebagai trak pikap pertama yang meraih 5 bintang daripada Euro NCAP, ciri-ciri keselematan yang diletakkan pada Isuzu D-Max ini mestilah kena gempak. Antaranya, trak ini dilengkapi dengan pakej sistem
ADAS (Advanced Driver Assist Systems)
. Sistem ini yang banyak membantu menaikkan taraf keselamatan bagi segmen kenderaan pikap.

Bukan itu sahaja, kamera stereo hadapan serta radar belakang yang hadir pada model ini turut menambah ciri ciri keselamatan lain seperti:

Brek Kecemasan Autonomi

Amaran Perlanggaran Depan

Amaran Keluar Lorong

Pencegahan Keluar Lorong

Bantuan Simpan Lorong

Penjagaan Lorong Kecemasan

Brek Pelbagai Pelanggaran

Monitor Titik Buta

Makluman Lalu Lintas Belakang

Pengenalan Tanda Lalu Lintas

Pembatas Kelajuan Pintar

Lampu Tinggi Automatik

Kawalan Pelayaran Adaptif

Mitigasi Kesalahan Aplikasi Pedal

Selain itu,
Isuzu D-Max
 juga datang dengan 8 beg udara, termasuk 2 beg udara baru iaitu di bahagian lutut pemandu serta pada bahagian tengah kereta bagi menambah ciri keselamatan kepada pemandu dan penumpang hadapan sekiranya berlaku kemalangan dari tepi.

Dengan adanya sistem E-call yang terbaru pada D-max, anda boleh menghubungi talian kecemasan dengan hanya menekan butang E-Call yang disediakan sekiranya anda terlibat dengan kemalangan tidak serius. Mudah bukan? Tetapi, sekiranya anda terlibat dalam kemalangan di mana beg udara telah diaktifkan, ia akan menghantar panggilan kecemasan secara automatik. Untuk mendapat 5 bintang pengiktirafan daripada Euro NCAP, ciri ini merupakan ciri wajib ada pada sesebuah kenderaan.

‘Ladder chassis’ juga telah ditambah baik sebanyak lebih 34 peratus kelebaran serta 14 peratus ketinggian bagi meningkatkan kekuatan dan ketahanan kepada penumpang sekiranya berlaku pelanggaraan dari arah sisi. Kestabilan model ini dibantu dengan kehadiran brek yang lebih besar pada tayar depan dan belakang bagi mengurangkan jarak berhenti. Pendek kata, memang tahan lama la! Untuk pengetahuan anda, tak jauh beza pun berat di antara trak pikap ini dengan kenderaan penumpang yang lain. Berat kesemua varian D-Max ini tidak melebihi 2,040kg pun. Kalau nak dibandingkan dengan kereta sedan mewah
Audi A8
, D-Max ini adalah 200kg lebih ringan!

Bagi ujian keselamatan Euro NCAP yang dijalani Isuzu D-max, mereka telah menggunakan patung kanak kanak berusia 6 serta 10 tahun. Kalau ‘ladder chassis’ dah mantap ditambah dengan 8 beg udara serta
Isofix
 bagi tempat duduk kanak-kanak, model ini terbukti memberikan perlindungan maksimum kepada kanak kanak berusia bawah 10 tahun. Anda juga boleh mematikan suis beg udara pada penumpang bagi membolehkan pemasangan kerusi kanak kanak menghadap ke belakang.

Isuzu D-Max ini dikuasakan dengan enjin diesel yang mampu menghasilkan sehingga 164PS dan 360Nm Tork yang mematuhi piawaian pemancaran Euro 6D. Lebih menarik, model terbaru D-Max hadir dengan kebolehan untuk menunda berat maksimum sebanyak 3.5 tan serta mampu membawa beban sehingga 1 tan!

Berminat? Ada pelbagai varian yang anda boleh pilih! Antaranya ialah 4x2, 4x4, transmisi automatik atau manual, tiga jenis ‘cab’ (single, extended, double). Walau bagaimanapun, model ini masih lagi belum boleh didapati di negara ini pada waktu ini. Model Isuzu D-Max ini dijangkakan tiba dalam suku ke 2 atau 3 tahun ini. Sama sama kita nantikan!


Undercover minister Anthony Loke rides KTM Komuter: Is it that bad?

Transport Minister Anthony Loke is back on the street, riding the rails
of the Klang Valley’s public transportation network
 to see for himself where improvements can/should/need to be made.

This time he takes a trip on the KTM Komuter, armed with a face mask and a helpful assistant (or two) to take pictures. Has he bitten off more than he can chew?

Late last week, Loke boarded the KTM Komuter train with the intention to inspect the facilities at KL Sentral, train timeliness and overall service quality, as well as that of his destination: Bandar Tasik Selatan.

From the get-go, things didn’t seem to be going well with one of the escalators to the platform being out of order. Needless to say, the rest of the journey was more or less similar to the experience faced by many Malaysians that rely on this train service for their commute.

It was unclear if his trip was taken during the peak hours when everyone was either going to work or coming back home, but platform and train did not seem overly crowded.

He also noted the fact that KTM Komuter schedules were not clearly available to passengers with just a simple printout table in small text meant to convey all the train arrival information. The old but digital signboards on platforms are also no longer in use with a simple QR code slapped on which links to a train schedule visible on a web page.

Speaking of schedules, for years on end Malaysians have had to suffer through the KTM Komuter's lack of frequency and punctuality, not to mention many examples of poorly maintained stations.

Even during peak hours in 2022, trains tend to arrive every 30 minutes (if they're on schedule) while off-peak hours can see passengers waiting upwards of 1 hour or more for a train to arrive. Furthermore, it has become common for trains to be stuck along its route while it waits for a clearance signal to proceed, further delaying everyone's journey.

Loke made mention of these delays caused by
the still-ongoing upgrading works
 (Klang Valley Double Track Electrification - KDVT Phase 1) that has faced numerous hiccups as well as the KDVT Phase 2 project that has stalled outright.

Clearly, fixing the KTM Komuter service will be a much more difficult task than
remedying the Kelana Jaya line LRT
.

While the latter is in otherwise relatively high repute save for the more recent slip ups as a surge of citizens turned to public transportation en masse after being required to return to the office, the average Malaysian will struggle to think of any stretch of time that the KTM Komuter can be described as even half decent.


Lexus Tops JD Power Study In The U.S. Again, Iconic Porsche Is The Highest Ranked Model

Lexus has been topping the J.D. Power studies in the U.S. for many years. While some studies cover a very short window such as
 Initial Quality Survey (
IQS
)
 which only measures problems from two to six months of ownership, the U.S Vehicle Dependability survey perhaps sheds a much brighter light on true vehicle quality, durability, and reliability.
Lexus is again the brand with vehicles that reported the least problems from its owners after 36 months of ownership.
According to the report by
Automotive News
, Lexus ranked on top for the eighth straight year even though it performed worse in 2019 with an increase of problems reported. The brand also had the ES model top the rankings in compact premium car segment as well as the GX and
 RX models
 taking the top two spots in the midsize premium SUV segment.
Source: J.D. Power 2019 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS)
Across all brands, the reliability of three-year-old vehicles improved four percent from last year, from 142 to 136 points. Overall, 13 brands showed improvement while 17 brands including second-placed Porsche had more problems reported.
Dave Sargent, head of J.D. Power’s global automotive practice said there are growing complaints with a transmission with very wide ratio coverage (eight forward ratios and above). He said automakers designed the transmission to upshift more frequently for better fuel economy, but consumers hate the impact on drivability and smoothness.
Negative feedback from features in advanced driving assists systems such as collision avoidance, park assist, and lane departure warning are also starting to occur more frequently in the survey.
Other existing grouses include an inaccurate navigation system, excessive wind and road noise, and Bluetooth connectivity hiccups continue to be the top complaints.
In summary, brands that saw big improvement were:
MINI, with Cooper the highest ranked Compact Sporty
Jeep
Cadillac
Volkswagen, with Tiguan the highest-ranked small SUV
Audi, with Q3 the highest-ranked small premium SUV
Toyota, with Camry and Tundra the highest-ranked in their respective segments
Mitsubishi
While brands that declined and indicated more problems were:
Fiat
Land Rover
Acura
Volvo
Mazda
Lincoln
Mercedes-Benz, Subaru, and Nissan all ranked close to the industry average of 136 problems per 100 vehicles.
J.D. Power also noted that the
Porsche 911 is the highest-ranked model
 in the study.
A total of 32,952 respondents who are the original owners of year-2016 models after three years of ownership were surveyed this year. The study measures 177 problems and was conducted in the quarter of 2018.


How Much Does It Cost To Maintain A Mitsubishi Triton?

Launched earlier this year, the new Mitsubishi Triton is the latest entrant in a segment that is overwhelmingly dominated by the Toyota Hilux, which sells more than all of its competitors combined.
The fact that they Hilux is not as well equipped as its rivals but continues to lead the segment by a huge margin suggests that truck buyers are a very pragmatic lot. While having more features is a plus point, the majority buyers favour the Hilux’s proven durability and ease of maintenance.
So how does the new Triton fare in terms of maintenance? The Hilux is supported by 85 authorized service centres nationwide, including 48 body and paint centres for collision repairs. Mitsubishi Motors has a lower but still good enough coverage, with 59 authorized service centres nationwide including 26 body and paint repair outlets.
UMW Toyota is quite transparent about the maintenance cost for Toyota vehicles, with prices of mandatory maintenance packages listed
here
. Mitsubishi Motors doesn’t publish the maintenance cost for its cars but the company has shared with us the servicing costs for the new Triton.
To recap, the new Triton’s uses a lightweight, quiet running aluminum block 4N15 common-rail MIVEC turbodiesel engine. It has a relatively small 2.4-litre capacity but delivers a level of performance that’s comparable to a larger 2.8-litre Toyota Hilux. In terms of price, performance, and features, the Triton 2.4-litre should be compared against the Hilux 2.8-litre, despite the difference in engine capacity.
With a smaller capacity, the Triton also benefits from a lower road tax - RM793 versus RM1,248 for the similar power output 2.8-litre Hilux (rates for Peninsular Malaysia).
While an equivalent Hilux will cost you nearly RM500 more annually to keep on the road, it counters by offering a wider, more usable torque spread than the Triton, producing 450 Nm of torque that is sustained from 1,600 – 2,400 rpm. The Triton’s peak 430 Nm peak torque spikes only at 2,500 rpm. On the move, the Triton doesn't feel as responsive as the Hilux.
The Hilux also has a larger deck and its shorter rear overhang also gives it a better departure angle for off-road driving.
The Triton has a slightly smaller rear deck but it offers better ride comfort with more supportive seats at the front and back. Even with rear seatbacks are angled for better comfort - not common for a truck. It also has a best in-class turning radius, perfect for tight off-road trails or even urban roads. The list of safety features are also more extensive in the Triton.
The Triton's Super Select 4WD II is also the only one of its kind that is capable of 4WD driving on dry tarmac roads. All other pick-up trucks in this class run on regular Part-time 4WD, with 4WD mode that can only be engaged when driving on low grip, untarred surfaces. Engaging 4WD mode when driving on normal roads puts unncessary stress on the driveline.
Based on information obtained from Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia, the total maintenance cost over a 5-year/100,000 km period is RM5,903. Meanwhile, the recommended service package for the Toyota Hilux is published on UMW Toyota’s website.
The Triton’s service internal is also longer, at every 6-month/10,000 km versus the Hilux’s more conservative 3-month/5,000 km. The longer service interval offer greater convenience to customers but it requires more expensive fully synthetic engine oil (RM207.70) versus the Hilux’s cheaper mineral oil (RM 120.30 to RM138.50, depending on whether the engine oil filter – which lasts for 10,000 km, is changed).
A longer service interval also means less visits to the service centre, which also means less labour cost so the Triton's servicing cost is slightly cheaper, at RM224 less over a five-year/100,000 km period.
The actual difference in servicing cost might actually be higher as the Triton’s service plan also includes replacement of the air-conditioning system’s cabin filter (RM79.20 excluding labour), a job that’s not included in the Toyota Hilux’s service plan (but it is a recommended addition job).
The bigger difference however, is the road tax. With a smaller capacity engine, the Triton's annual road tax is RM454.40 cheaper than the Hilux. Over a five-year period, the Triton saves you RM2,272 in road tax.
All Mitsubishi Triton models except for the Triton Quest come with a five-year/200,000 km warranty – the best in its class. In comparison, the Hilux’s warranty is 50,000 km shorter, at five years/150,000 km.
As for reliability, very little separates the two. Mitsubishi is a 4x4 specialist and is one of Japan’s oldest maker of 4x4 vehicles while Toyota is still the byword for reliability.
Read our review of the new Mitsubishi Triton and Toyota Hilux
here
 and
here
.
To get the best deals for the new Mitsubishi Triton, click
here
.


Toyota Recall: Malaysia Not Affected

Malaysian Toyota owners need not worry about a recent recall by the Toyota Motor Corporation, regarding the recall of some 3.4 million Toyota vehicles for a defective Electronic Control Unit (ECU).

According to
CNN Business
, the affected vehicles – mostly from North America, Central America, and South America – include the Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Avalon, and Avalon HV models that were produced between 2010 and 2019.

The recall involves a defective ECU, which controls the deployment of the airbags and seat belt pre-tensioners which reduce the severity of injury in an accident. These defective ECUs are affected by certain electrical noises/interferences that distort various sensor readings, which will in turn cause the incomplete/non-deployment of the aforementioned safety systems.

Toyota US hopes to contact all owners of affected vehicles by Mid-March; owners will be required to take their cars to an authorised service centre where affected vehicles will be fitted with a noise mitigation component to filter out bad ECU commands.

Closer to home, UMW Toyota has told us that cars sold locally will not be affected by this recall and remain safe to drive. However, if there are any updates in the future, UMW Toyota will take necessary measures to inform and rectify affected vehicles.


Toyota 86 facelift to break cover at New York Auto Show

With Scion’s exit in the North American market, the models that existed in their line-up were to be rebadged as Toyota models. Their most popular model (although not popular enough given Scion’s shuttering) was the FR-S, which will now be known as the Toyota 86. It just so happens that the 86 is also due for a facelift as well, which gives Toyota a perfect opportunity to relaunch the 86 for North America.
Toyota will be putting the model on display in the coming New York Auto Show at the end of the month, but they have released specifications and renders ahead of launch. Just as the Toyota and Subaru engineers have repeatedly said they would not be increasing power outputs, the powertrain has been left largely untouched. For manual variants specifically, power is up by 5 hp and torque is up by 9 Nm, and the gear ratios have been changed for better gear spacing. The suspension damping and spring rates have been revised to improve handling dynamics- not that the 86 needed much improvement to begin with.
As for the rest of the car, there have been a number of changes in terms of exterior aesthetics. Toyota aimed to make the 86 look more aggressive, and so the front bumper was redesigned to have a larger intake. The North American market will receive LED headlamps and turn signals, as well as new LED tail lamps. The rear bumpers have changed as well and the 86 badge has been added to the front fenders- something previously missing under the Scion branding.
The remaining changes to the car are merely to convert the Scion FR-S into the Toyota 86- so things like the steering wheel and 86 motif on the instrument cluster won’t be new to other markets around the world. As the 86 is no longer officially sold here, you can expect to see the facelifted model in the used car market in a few years’ time.


Honda Malaysia Opens New, RM15mil-Pre-Delivery Inspection Yard In Melaka

Honda
 Malaysia has just opened its third and newest Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) Yard at its Pegoh plant in Malacca.
The new facility is an RM15.1 million investment that is built on a 50-acre land that directly faces its Pegoh plant, and can accommodate up to 6,000 vehicles at a time, whilst functioning as a centralised delivery centre for new vehicles.
Speaking at the grand launch event, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Honda Malaysia Mr. Yoichiro Ueno said, “In January last year, we opened the No. 2 Line which puts us on the path towards achieving our mid-term goal of doubling our production capacity to 100,000 units by 2016.
“In July 2014, we made a strategic decision to construct the new PDI Yard 3 in order to speed up the vehicle delivery process in support of the increase in production and sales volume. The capacity for PDI Yard 3 is increased by 56% compared to the combined capacity of PDI Yards 1 and 2. The existing Yard 1 and Yard 2 will be used for receiving new vehicles, installing accessories as well as inspecting vehicle interior and exterior.”
To help the movement of vehicles from the first PDI facility to the newest one, Honda Malaysia has invested another RM7.1 million towards the construction of an Overhead Link Bridge.
PDI Yards 1 and 2 will be used for receiving new vehicles, and installing accessories as well as inspecting vehicle interiors and exteriors, while Yard 3 will focus on speeding up the vehicle delivery process in order to match the increase in production and sales volume.
With the end game being to achieves its remarkably high sales targets for 2015 (85,000 units – of which
51% has already been achieved
), Mr Ueno continued to say that, “I am pleased to announce that with the opening of PDI Yard 3, we are now able to support and speed up the delivery process of vehicles to Honda dealers nationwide.
“Our dealer network is also growing in tandem with the increase in production. All of Honda’s three initiatives; the No. 2 Line, new PDI Yard 3 and a strong dealer network will work together towards providing better efficiency in delivering Honda vehicles to customers.”


Audi to show-off forgotten ‘gems’ at Techno-Classica Essen

The 2016 Techno-Classica Essen 2016; an international automotive exhibition which will see a wide variety of vintage cars, rare modern-classics, as well as prestige automobiles from around the world being displayed is all set to take place from April 6 – 10, and one of the big news from this year’s show will be the ‘Audi Tradition’ exhibit.
Audi
 has revealed that this year, its booth will revolve around rarities from its history, and on display will be two very important prototypes - the Audi quattro Spyder and the Audi Avus Quattro, alongside other singular and rare models such as the Group S rally prototype.
First presented to the world in 1991, the Audi quattro Spyder, with its mid-engine concept was a sensation when it made its debut in Frankfurt. With its aluminium body, it weighed in at just 1,100 kilograms.
Although speculation about a production version brought thousands of advance orders from Audi dealers worldwide, it remained just a prototype due to financial reasons.
Just one month later, Audi went on further at the Tokyo Motor Show and exhibited the even more radical concept supercar – the Avus quattro. Its highly polished aluminum body offered another demonstration of consistent lightweight construction from Audi.
The development engineers selected the mid-engine concept for the Avus as well, but this time with double the number of cylinders: for spectacular drive performance, they planned a 509 hp 12-cylinder engine in a "W" arrangement.
Although both the cars mentioned above did not make it to production, they have influenced the modern
 Audi R8
 in many ways, from the design philosophy, the mid-engine layout, and also engine technology.
This is probably why the Quattro Spyder and the Avus Quattro are also dubbed as the grandfathers of the Audi R8.
And then, there is the Audi Group S, which was developed for rally racing but went unknown. This one-off car produced in Essen was intended for racing in 1987 but was never put to use.
Audi decided to withdraw for safety reasons from the World Rally Championship during the 1986 season that was already underway. A serious accident at the 1986 Portugal Rally – which did not involve an Audi – ultimately prompted the international sport authority FIA to eliminate Group B and the planned Group S from championship racing for the 1987 season. The technical features of the exhibited prototype: tubular steel frame, plastic body and four-valve turbocharged mid-engine.
Looking for an Audi R8? Find one now at
Carlist.my


Anthony Loke: Govt urges more airlines to use sustainable aviation fuel

The government wants local airlines to start using sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) so that they are in line with the country’s efforts towards a low-carbon economy.

Several airlines and aviation companies around the world are actively using sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) as part of their efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote environmental sustainability, so it's no surprise that Malaysia too, wants to get into the act.

According to Malay Mail, Transport Minister Anthony Loke has come out and said that the government is encouraging more local airlines to use sustainable fuel.

"The aviation industry is the industry that has the highest rate of gas emissions and there are already countries in Europe that have made it mandatory for their airlines (to use SAF)."

"... but in Malaysia, we have not yet reached that level. However, we will go in that direction (mandating the use of SAF)," he told media at a press conference recently.

To make a statement, Loke arrived at the press conference in Langkawi on board a Malaysia Airlines commercial flight using SAF from KLIA.

It wouldn't be difficult to find a supplier for SAF, as Petronas Dagangan Berhad is already a SAF purvoyer. According to Hardeep Singh, Commercial Business head of Petronas Dagangan, there are also plans to start a pilot project to become a producer of the fuel.

“We have plans to produce (SAF) towards quarter four of this year,” said Hardeep.

Some of the early adopters of SAF are Delta Air Lines, United Airlines and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. They have all made significant commitments to SAF and has set a goal to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by using SAF.


Toyota Indonesia Set To Introduce C-HR Hybrid Soon

PT Toyota Astra Motor, the official distributor of Toyota vehicles in Indonesia will be introducing the C-HR Hybrid soon.
According to our sister site
Mobile123
, the Toyota C-HR Hybrid will be imported from Thailand and two variants will be made available.
Both variants of the C-HR Hybrid feature a 1.8-litre Atkinson cycle petrol-electric hybrid engine borrowed from the Toyota Prius. The petrol engine is good for 98 PS and 142 Nm, while the electric motor is rated at 53 kW and 163 Nm, allowing for a combined system output of 122 PS.
As for equipment, the Indonesian market C-HR Hybrid is said to feature:
Blind Spot Monitor (BSM)
Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
Pre-Collision System (PCS)
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
Auto High Beam (AHB)
Lane Departure Alert (LDA)
Fransiskus Soerjopranoto, Executive General Manager of PT TAM told Mobil123 that the new C-HR Hybrid will be launched in Indonesia on 22
nd
 April, with prices starting from around 500 - 600 million Rupiah. The regular C-HR starts at 493.8 million Ruppiah.
Looking for a Toyota C-HR? Find for the best deals
here
.


The Toyota Camry Hybrid To Replace Avensis Model For U.K. Market

Toyota Europe has confirmed that it will reintroduce the Camry to the UK market after a 14-year hiatus. Starting in 2019, the Camry Hybrid will be sold in the UK and Western European markets, as a replacement for the European market specific Avensis model.
Upon its entry, the Toyota Camry Hybrid will be the eighth hybrid model to join the Toyota line-up for the European market, alongside the Prius, Yaris, RAV4, and Auris hybrid models.
Toyota Europe has said the Camry Hybrid will be powered by a 2.5-litre engine coupled to a self-charging hybrid system, but have not revealed further details. In Japan, however, where the
Camry Hybrid is currently sold
, it is powered by the 2.5-litre Dynamic Force A25A-FXS four-cylinder petrol engine that produces 178 PS and 221 Nm, mated to the company's Toyota Hybrid System II. The electric motor contributes another 120 PS and 202 Nm. Drive is sent to the front wheels via an eCVT transmission. Combined system output is in the region of 208 hp.
First unveiled at the
2017 Detroit Auto Show
, the Camry Hybrid is based on the TNGA platform which offers greater driving dynamics, better build quality, and highly efficient packaging.
The Camry also utilises ultra-high-tensile hot-stamp steel throughout its construction, while laser screw welding and structural adhesives are also used to enhance the body’s rigidity. Elsewhere, its ‘ring-shaped’ body frame reduces torsional movement, improves safety, and improves driving performance.
The eighth-generation Camry also introduced Toyota’s latest Human Machine Interface (HMI) which relays information through three interlinked displays: a 10-inch colour Head-Up Display (HUD); a seven-inch multi-information display within the instrument cluster, plus an eight-inch audio and navigation display and air-conditioning control panel that is integrated into the centre console.
Given the all-new Toyota Camry will now only be offered as a single global model, the US-market Camry will, for the first time in many years,
also be sold in Malaysia
. According to sources familiar with the matter, the locally-assembled Camry model could be slated for a local introduction towards the end of 2018.


Reviewing Bangi MP's Plan On 'How To Make Tolls Great Again'

With the
wider implementation of RFID
 toll lanes reaching its 6-month mark, Ong Kian Ming, Bangi member of parliament and former deputy minister of international trade and industry, has weighed in.

As any average motorist in Malaysia can attest to, particularly those living in the Klang Valley, tolls are a tolerated but costly and somewhat convenient part of any commute and even most short-distance journeys.

In summary, there are too many tolls going every which way, usually long queues when traffic gets heavier, and they can quickly cost us a chunk of change at the end of the day. And that’s before you factor in the lingering issues experienced at the toll booths/lanes themselves.

First Impressions With RFID

Like most of us, Ong’s first impressions of the RFID tags were fairly positive with him finding it easy to purchase, install on his vehicle, and set up via the TNG eWallet app. This was back in March 2022.

Some immediately apparent advantages include not having to deal with the large and somewhat
cumbersome SmartTAG transmitter
 (as well as replacing its battery from time to time), the easy in-app balance checking and topping up, and having an easily accessible transaction record of toll payments.

However, inevitably, he also encountered the same pervasive issues that have been experienced by nearly every one that’s used cashless/tag-less/card-less system for any length of time such as the fact that most toll plazas only have one dedicated RFID lane which can lead to people cutting across traffic in a dangerous manner.

"Better Than SmartTAG"

In addition to other pain points such as the
potential for improper installation
 and the possibility of approaching a toll with insufficient balance if the auto-reload function is not enabled, he also points out how it might be easy for some people to forget they had used an RFID lane to enter a closed highway system (such as the North-South Expressway) and use the SmartTAG or Touch n’ Go lane when exiting the highway.

Overall, Ong says he views RFID as an overall better experience compared to the SmartTAG he was using previously but felt that there are still many ways for the new toll collection system to improve.

He then gives a total of 8 suggestions with the hope that Touch n’ Go, PLUS, the Works Ministry that regulates the National Highway Authority (LLM) will collaborate further to realise, enhancing the highway experience for all Malaysians, not just users of RFID.

Proper analysis of the traffic data at MyRFID versus Smart Tag versus Touch&GO lanes to assess their respective efficiencies and take the necessary corrective action.

Use technology to remind highway users of low balance/auto top-up options.

Implement and allow negative balance (or Pay Later) to ease flow of traffic.

Roll out MyRFID for buses, lorries and other heavy vehicles.

Increase the availability of the Enhanced Touch & Go card.

Put in a timeline for conversion of Smart Tag into MyRFID lanes.

Link the MyRFID to other payment systems.

State the timeline for the overall plan to migrate to Multi Lane Free Flow (MLFF) system.

He does also elaborate on each suggestion, so feel free to read the
full Facebook post linked here
. However, we’d also like to give our own two cents on which suggestions represent the biggest gains and should be prioritised.

The first suggestion we’d support is #2 to prevent toll users from entering a highway with insufficient balance. The Auto-Reload function, which can mitigate this, is available though not mandatory, more could be done to actively alert users as their balance starts to dwindle.

This also ties into suggestion #3, which we’d argue is the most obvious solution to the ‘no balance’ problem. TNG should allow eWallet users’ accounts to go into negative balance when attempting to pass through a toll on a depleted eWallet.

What Can Be Fixed And When?

Setting up a ‘Pay Later’ function would likely need some level of cooperation with highway concessionaires and additional education to the end-user but would go a long way in preventing the long queues caused by driver carelessness and neglect (by not checking their balance beforehand).

Of course, there will need to be a limit to how much negative balance will be allowed, even penalties and punishment for abusing the system or purposely attempting to enter a highway toll with zero balance. For this, perhaps cooperation with JPJ is in order.

On the matter of the Enhanced Touch n’Go cards, Ong’s sentiment is an obvious one. We all know that TNG should have made more than the seemingly tiny batch they did end up selling to customers at launch. Scalpers are running wild with
some cards being sold online for RM100
 and their next large shipment of new cards is only reported to arrive in June, which is a pretty lousy and sluggish rollout.

The final suggestion we’d like to comment on is both #6 and #8 since they’re very much topically linked. Since the January 2022 wider implementation of RFID and the backlash that followed, there has been precious little in the way of a timeline as to when SmartTAG/TNG lanes will be converted into ones supporting RFID.

In tandem with the radio silence on this matter, there has been increasing chatter about working towards a future with multi lane free flow (MLFF) roads that do not even need toll plazas. The introduction of RFID tags themselves was integral to this same plan but there can be no progress as long as the number of RFID lanes is kept low and we cling to SmartTAG and TNG card taps to pay for tolls.

In the past 5 or so months, the advantages of MLFF have only been communicated poorly with various talking heads never explaining a full project blueprint attached to a timeline. All we have are vague descriptions of a booth-less, gate-less highway network that somehow still magically saps us of money the more we drive on them.

Who knows when that will happen, what will lead up to it, or how much that will cost the average Malaysian. It comes as little surprise that the vast majority of us just don’t seem to care.


Carlist.my MAA Drive: Test Drive The Ford Ranger, Fiesta, And Focus!

Ford makes some of the most
fun-to-drive
 vehicles around, from the entry-level Fiesta to the mid-range Focus, and even the Ranger pick-up. All three models will be available for
viewing and test drives
 at the upcoming
 Carlist.my MAA Drive, Test & Buy Event 2017
 happening at Setia City Convention Centre this coming weekend on 13-14 May 2017.
The Ford booth will be located at Main Hall A001 adjacent to the main entrance. Vehicles on display will include the fun and peppy
Ford Fiesta 1.0 EcoBoost
, the powerful and tech-laden
Ford Focus Sport
, and three variants of the
Ranger pick-up family
 –
Wildtrak
, XLT, and the
newly-launched FX4
.
Customers will enjoy on-the-spot discounts and goodies with every Ford vehicle booked at the showcase along with cash vouchers for electrical goods worth up to RM15,000. There is also a limited edition two-tier stainless steel food carrier to be given away while stocks last.
The Ford booth will be open on both days of the event from 10am to 10pm, with last call for test drives at 7pm. Besides testing on open road, members of the public are also invited to experience the Ranger and its built-in toughness on a specially-prepared off-road test track.
Book your test drive at the official
Carlist.my MAA Drive, Test & Buy Event 2017
 page today!


Updated Proton Exora Launched, Priced From RM 59,800

Following an announcement made by Proton earlier this month, the company has officially introduced the updated Exora.
This marks the third time the long-serving model has been updated, as it was updated twice since its introduction in 2009. The first update came in 2011 when the model received its turbocharged engine, and the second update was revealed in 2017.
For its third update, Proton has decided to maintain the exterior design of the new Exora, opting instead to enhance the new model with subtle details.
Below are the new features on the updated Exora, though most are limited to the Premium variant:
Shark-fin antenna
7-inch touchscreen head unit with GKUI software
‘Hi Proton’ voice command system
New meter cluster with segmented LCD multi-info display
USB charging ports
New seat and door trim upholstery
Rear view mirror with clear plastic bezel
Under the hood of the updated Proton Exora range is the tried-and-tested 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine that outputs 140 PS and 203 Nm, sent to the front wheels via a Punch-sourced CVT-type automatic transmission. Safety equipment include dual airbags, ESC, ABS, EBD, and all-round disc brakes. It is worth noting that between 2015 and 2017, the now-discontinued Super Premium variant of the Exora was available with 4 airbags. Today's Exora only offers 2 airbags.
Still no ISOFIX child seat mounts or even a three-point seat belt for the centre second row passenger.
Prices start from RM 59,800 for the Exora 1.6T Executive, while the 1.6T Premium will set buyers back for RM 66,800. Compared to the predecessor model, this marks a reduction of RM 2,208.24 for the Executive variant and a RM 2,547.41 for the Premium variant (previously known as the Executive Plus).
In addition to the reduced prices, Proton is offering an Extra Value package for buyers of the new Exora, which includes a service package, Internet data package, interest rate package, and insurance package.
On top of that, for buyers who purchase their Exora by this year can further enjoy a five-year or 11 times free labour service package, while the first 1,000 customers can further enjoy free road tax for two years for private buyers and free road tax for one year for corporate buyers.
Looking for a new Proton? Find for the best deals
here
.


Extending Peace Of Mind – Getting Your Used/Reconditioned Vehicle An After-market Car Warranty

Possibly the biggest appeal of buying a brand new car is the peace of mind of a manufacturer backed warranty coverage. Most passenger cars now come with 5-year unlimited mileage warranties. But what if you have purchased a used or a reconditioned car?
This is where after-market warranty providers come in. For this discussion, we will be focussing on the warranty options offered by MyOpal Services (MyOpal), whose coverage is underwritten by AmGeneral Insurance. MyOpal manages a portfolio of over 2,000 vehicles and is the premier aftermarket warranty provider in Malaysia.
With extensive partnerships with key automotive vendors and a panel of over 180 specialists workshops nationwide – MyOpal is able to offer a comprehensive solution for all its customers across a wide range of vehicles.
MyOpal offers three packages under their Prime Warranty program, which are transparent and competitive in terms of pricing, coverage, and exclusion terms, and exhaustive in detail, down to the individual components and systems. This further allows customers to make prudent decisions regarding the exact coverage needed for their vehicle.
Three main packages are offered under MyOpal Prime Warranty:
Select
,
XTend
, and
Base.X
 and here’s what you need to know.
An extended warranty not only safeguards owners against unexpected breakdowns or system failures, but it also protects buyers against common problems that may afflict certain vehicle models, especially if these problems affect the engine, gearbox, and steering systems.
These are just some examples of popular used or reconditioned vehicles, along with the problems commonly faced by owners – and the potential savings that can be enjoyed with a MyOpal Prime warranty:
Toyota Alphard/Vellfire Steering Rack Issue
Despite its superb ride quality and reputation for steadfast reliability, a substantial number of Alphard/Vellfire MPV models – in particular, the second-generation (AH20) models – suffer from steering system issues. Usual symptoms include steering freeplay, poor self-centering, and knocking noises when turning. Faults have been attributed to leaking hydraulic hoses, steering column issues, steering pump issues, and faulty steering racks – repairs can costs anywhere between RM800 and RM5,000 depending on the severity of the fault.
It's good to know that all basic warranty packages for Toyota vehicles now come with steering system coverage at no additional cost. The price for total peace of mind is as follows:
MyOpal Select for reconditioned cars: RM 1,177.66
Add-on packages: RM 397.50 (Prime Plus) + RM 927.50 (Prime Advance)
MyOpal Xtend for used cars: RM 1,131.02
Add-on packages: RM 397.50 (Prime Plus) + RM 927.50 (Prime Advance)
Mercedes-Benz (W212) E-Class SBC Pump Failure
The (W212) E-Class was in many ways a resurgence of style, quality, and driving performance for the E-Class range. They are widely known to be superbly engineered and many owners have clocked six-figure mileages needing not much more than periodical maintenance. However, the Achilles heel of the W212 E-Class is its Servotronic Brake Control (SBC) pump which in numerous cases have failed prematurely. In most cases, if the SBC pump malfunctions, cars have to be towed as braking performance will be adversely affected.
Replacement of the SBC pump along with relevant repair costs has been known to cost in the region of RM5k - 8k depending on the vehicle variant. Check out how the potential savings and peace of mind with a MyOpal ‘Select’ and ‘XTend’ warranty package:
MyOpal Select for reconditioned cars: RM 1,649.36
Add-on packages: RM 397.50 (Prime Plus) + RM 927.50 (Prime Advance)
MyOpal Xtend for used cars: RM 1,696.00 (XTend Package)
Add-on packages: RM 397.50 (Prime Plus) + RM 927.50 (Prime Advance)
Another additional benefit of opting for MyOpal's packages is that the cars must first conform to MyOpal's strict guidelines for eligibility of coverage. Hence, whichever vehicle you buy must first be rid of any faults or issues, borne by the dealer/seller before the car can be covered. Thus, MyOpal serves as an impartial third-party evaluator to ensure that the buyer receives a vehicle that is in great working condition. And if it doesn't conform, at least the buyer may still walk away from a potentially problematic vehicle.
Buyers should also note that they can and should request for their vehicle to be evaluated by an independent third party prior to purchase. In cases like this, buyers can explore
MyOpal's Prime Inspection
 service (on-site inspection; available nationwide) or visit one of two Carlistbid.my's inspection hubs (located in Damansara and Glenmarie).
At the very least, a warranty for your chosen vehicle – even for the first year of ownership – will help avoid any unpleasant surprises, especially when buyers have already spent a substantial amount of money to purchase the vehicle, i.e: downpayment, insurance, vehicle registration, and road tax.
This post is sponsored by MyOpal. For more information, visit the
MyOpal.com.my


Review: 2017 Mercedes-Benz B200 – Practical With A Touch Of Sportiness

The year 1997 played witness to not one, not two, but many events that shook the world. It was the year Microsoft became the most valuable company in the world, Mike Tyson bit a chunk of Evander Holyfield’s ear off in what was supposed to be a boxing match, Princess Diana and Mother Teresa died, Madeleine Albright became the first female Secretary of State in the US, and Mercedes-Benz decided to enter the small car market with the A-Class.
At that point of time, the A-Class (W168) caught many by surprise as it was unusual for the folks at Stuttgart to come up with a small, front-wheel-driven car in the midst of their portfolio that was filled with much bigger, luxurious machines.
After having a decent run for seven years, the A-Class, which was known for its frontal-impact absorption system called the "sandwich" floor construction where the engine and transmission would slide under the floor below the pedals in the event of a head-on collision, evolved into a more premium looking second-generation model.
While the evolution continued, the 'Baby Benz' didn’t really grow much. Plus, there was a demand for something bigger and more practical than the A-Class, but smaller than the C-Class. So, in order to fill in this gap, Mercedes-Benz introduced a model that would go on to reach a million deliveries by 2013 - the B-Class.
Mercedes-Benz calls it a ‘Compact Sports Tourer’, but the European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP) has classified it as a small MPV. We are just going to refer to it as a ‘family hatch’ since it is ultimately a five-seater hatchback that is ideal for a family.
Specifications
Price: RM218,888
Engine: 1.6-litre turbocharged, petrol
Transmission: 7G-DCT dual clutch automatic
Max power: 156 PS @ 5,300 rpm
Max torque: 250 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
Fuel Consumption (observed): 16.2 km/L
Origin: Fully imported
The facelifted second-gen B-Class we’re looking at now which made its Malaysian debut in April 2015, is offered only in one trim level here in the form of the B200 with Urban equipment package.
Sharing the same platform as the A-Class, the B200 is powered by a 1.6-litre turbo engine which delivers 156 PS and 250 Nm of maximum torque to the front wheels via the 7G-DCT dual clutch automatic gearbox which is also being carried over from before, enabling the car to complete the century dash in 8.4 seconds and clock a top speed of 200km/h.
Priced at RM218,888 OTR without insurance, the B200’s closest rival is the BMW 2-Series Active Tourer, which is priced from RM218,800.
Exterior
Measuring at 4,359 mm long, 1,786 mm wide and 1558 mm tall, the B Class is now longer and wider than before, having grown by 89 mm in length and 8 mm in width. The height however, has decreased by 55 mm. The wheelbase length has also decreased from 2,779 mm to 2,699 mm by 80 mm.
Against the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer:
This is of course, on top of the standard LED headlights, Runflat tyres, automatic wipers, and the electrically folding side mirrors.As mentioned earlier, the B200 we get here is offered with the ‘Urban’ equipment package, which comprises a two-louvre front grille, two-pipe exhaust system that is integrated into the rear bumper, generous dose of chrome, as well as 18-inch 5-twin spoke alloy wheels.
Design wise, the B Class is much more pleasant to our eyes now thanks to the big grille, the twin mufflers, the 18-inch wheels and also the lowered height. From something that appealed only to our moms, the car has progressed to something that even our dads won’t mind being seen in.
Usually, if we put a BMW and a Mercedes-Benz next to one another, the former will most likely be the sportier looking one but in this case, it is the other way around.
Interior
Upon getting inside the B200, we were greeted by a cabin similar to the A-Class’, but with way more space – enough for five lanky adults.
Build quality was of course top notch, with a generous dose of plush black leather upholstery and soft touch material.
Carrying the sportiness of the exterior over into the cabin were the blacked out interior colour theme, as well as the chrome ‘eye-ball’ air cond vents that can be found in the A-Class and the SLS AMG sports car.
We found the seats to be firmer and more supportive than the ones in the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer, but it felt a bit too upright for our liking.
On the plus side, there is the new 8-inch screen displaying all the infotainment details, rear air cond vents, the super convenient foldable tables mounted behind the front seats, 60:40 split folding second row seats which could also be slid front and back, and a decent 486-litres of boot space which went up to 1,545-litres with the seats folded.
Although the BMW 2-Series Active Tourer also comes with foldable and movable second row seats and rear air-cond vents, there are no tables for the rear occupants to utilize. Plus, the candidate from Munich comes with a smaller boot (468 litres/ 1,510 litres).
Moving on to safety, the list of features in the B200 is quite comprehensive, comprising seven airbags, adaptive braking, Attention Assist, a reverse camera, Acceleration Skid Control, ABS, EBD, BA, and Collision Prevention Assist among others.
However, there are still areas in which the Beemer is better than the Merc – such as visibility. If we put the both of them side by side, you will notice that the former has significantly larger windows, which translates to superb view of the car’s surroundings which in our opinion, is vital for a vehicle that prioritises practicality.
Besides that, the brighter colour tone of the 2-Series Active Tourer's interior makes it feel roomier and gives occupants a warmer ambience compared to the B200's blacked out theme which can make the cabin feel tighter than it is.
Driving it
The 156 PS and 250 Nm provided by the 1.6-litre direct injection turbocharged engine might not sound like a big deal on paper but the B200 is anything but slow, and being able to accelerate from standstill to 100km/h in 8.4 seconds is definitely a feat that deserves credit.
Despite being a tall car, the B200 was more composed and agile than we expected. It also tolerates corners in a very respectable manner with minimal body roll. This was achievable thanks to the car's centre of gravity that is lower than before.
However, as fun as it is around corners, the firm suspension and the low profile 18-inch tyres compromised comfort to a certain extent when we were driving around town. The steering on the other hand feels like it could use more weight, but the B200 is no hot hatch and the light steering comes in handy while manoeuvring the car through tight spots like shopping mall car parks.
Power delivery is smooth too, thanks to the seven-speed dual clutch transmission. It’s not the quickest-shifting dual-clutch system around, but the gearchanges are smooth. Road and engine noise are well insulated too.
Conclusion
Overall, the B200 is a car that has all the bases pretty much covered. There is ample space, loads of features, excellent build quality, and a proven track record of having sold more than a million units worldwide. Plus, it drives well too.
Designed to feel more like a big Merc, the B200 is a proposition that is much better than the rather undesirable model it replaces. Offering more practicality than the 2-Series Active Tourer with features like the bigger boot and the tables for the rear passengers, there is no surprise that there are more B200s running around town.


Beijing 2018: Volvo S90 Ambience Concept Brings Nordic Sight and Smell To The S90’s Cabin

Despite its very accomplished credentials, the Volvo S90 is not be a class rival to the BMW 7 Series or the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, but more of an alternative to the 5 Series and E-Class. Still, that hasn’t stop Volvo from coming up with some rather novel interpretation of what a top-class luxury sedan should offer.
The China-only S90 Excellence for example, has a one of a kind three-seat lounge style cabin that allows someone of a stature like Li Shufu, the Chairman of Volvo’s owner Geely himself for example, to stretch out and unwind with a glass of chilled beer from a small built-in refrigerator.
Continuing on the success of the S90 Excellence, Volvo has announced that it will be unveiling an even more luxurious S90 Ambience Concept that this week’s opening of the 2018 Beijing Auto Show.
Like the S90 Excellence, Volvo’s latest concept sedan retains the signature three-seat configuration and lounge console; which consists of a feet rest, shoe box, a large tablet computer mounted on an adjustable frame, and a folding desk.
Where it builds on the S90 Excellence is the way it transport its occupants not just physically, but also emotionally, using a variety of visual, audio, and aromatic stimulants to calm or energise its occupants.
By selecting from a list of themes from a mobile app, the rear occupant can choose to have calming visuals of a Swedish forest or magical northern lights (aurora borealis), or energetic pulses to be projected onto the roof's headliner.
The car’s Bowers and Wilkins audio system has been upgraded with built-in small tweeters in the headrest, which will then play synchronized tunes. The experience is completed by a scent diffuser that releases matching scents, delivering a complete sight, sound, and scent experience.
There are four themes to choose from - Northern Lights, Scandinavian Forest, Swan Lake, Archipelago and Rain.
It’s a cabin concept that’s perfectly suited for owners living in megacities of China, where a luxury business sedan’s cabin is seen not just as a mobile working space, but also a temporary escape from the busyness outside.
“The Ambience Concept redefines luxury by taking it beyond material choices, creating a car that connects with your senses,” said Robin Page, head of design at Volvo Cars. “The design explores how people feel inside the car and enables them to influence their own mood and well-being.”
“We’re known for our human-centric approach to design and as an industry leader in advanced safety technology,” Robin Page said. “Ambience reinforces this and shows our broader focus on human care, which starts with safety and also extends to general well-being.”
Although Volvo is debuting the car as a concept, it’s quite obvious that the features previewed here are ready for production and there is very little doubt that these features will be offered as an option to future customers of the S90 Excellence in China.


Diesel Engines Not On Proton’s Agenda

At yesterday’s press conference on the first firing of Proton’s new family of GDi/TGDi, Chairman of Proton Holdings Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad repeatedly emphasised that this new family of engines will comply with European emission regulations beyond 2020.
“This would mean that we will soon be able to resume selling our cars in the UK and Europe,” said Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, who was also keen to emphasised that the new engines will be able to meet the toughest Euro 6c exhaust emission regulations, and will be able to meet the C02 emission target of 99 g/km.
Proton announced yesterday that it is developing six new engines with powertrain specialist Ricardo, all due by 2017. The engines are:
1.0-litre 3-cylinder with variable valve timing (VVT)
1.2-litre 3-cylinder with VVT
1.3-litre 4-cylinder with direct injection (DI)
1.5-litre 4-cylinder with DI
1.3-litre 4-cylinder turbo
1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbo
There’s also a separate ‘E01’ programme for a 2.0-litre four cylinder engine, also due by 2017.
Curiously, despite the apparent European Union centric push, there are no plans to introduce any diesel engines – the dominant engine type in Europe.
Driven by a CO2-based road tax system, and an added tax on fuels, diesels which are inherently more fuel efficient and have lower CO2 emissions than their petrol counterparts, are favoured by many European drivers. Vehicle registration data published by the European Automobile Manufacturers Association show that nearly 60 percent of all new cars sold are powered by diesels. While they may have lower CO2 emissions, diesels are particularly poor on NOx and particulate matter (PM) emissions, pollutants which the latest Euro 6 regulations is clamping down hard on, thus making petrol engines more attractive once again.
When asked about the omission of diesel engines from Proton’s 6+1 (GDi/TGDi and E01 engine development programme) family of new engines, Tun Dr. Mahathir said “Well diesels were the preferred engines in Europe but now they have different ideas. You know what happened to the record of the performance of diesel engines recently, so now people have to rethink – whether [to support] diesel engines or petrol engines. Petrol engines will continue to be around for a long long time, if not in Europe at least in Asia.”
Tun Dr. Mahathir was most likely referring to the Volkswagen Group’s exhaust emissions scandal involving its diesel engines.
Related links:
Proton cranks up new family of six engines for 2017 introduction
Report Claims Seven New Proton Engines By 2017
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