Lebuh Raya Pan Borneo Dijangka Siap 2028 - Projek Makan Masa 65 Tahun Untuk Disiapkan

Lebuhraya Pan Borneo
, termasuk laluan Lebuhraya Trans Borneo yang tidak akan dikenakan tol dan menghubungkan Sarawak dan Sabah dijangka akan siap sepenuhnya dalam tempoh kira-kira lima tahun lagi.

Projek lebuh raya yang dimulakan sejak 1963 itu disahkan telah mencapai tahap 82% siap oleh Menteri Kanan
Kerja Raya
, Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, dengan empat pakej yang siap sepenuhnya merangkumi:

Telok Melano – Sematan

Nyabau

Serian – Balai Ringin

Julau

Tambahnya, pakej selebihnya dijangka siap pada hujung tahun ini, namun beliau menjangka mungkin satu atau dua pakej akan terlewat.

Kenapa Lewat?

Projek ini menghadapi pelbagai cabaran terutamanya dari segi:

Kekurangan bahan

Kenaikan harga barang

Kekuarangan tenaga kerja asing (terutama dari Indonesia)

Kenaikan harga minyak diesel beri kesan pada kontraktor

Kenaikan harga besi

Fasa 1 Lebuhraya Pan Borneo Sarawak yang bernilai RM16.117 bilion meliputi 11 pakej kerja dengan jajaran sepanjang 786 kilometer bermula dari Telok Melano ke Miri, manakala Lebuhraya Pan Borneo Fasa 2 bermula dari Limbang ke Lawas dan dijangka siap sepenuhnya menjelang 2028.

Projek Dipercepat Selesai Isu Jalan Rosak

Projek Lebuh raya Pan Borneo Sabah di antara Batu 32 Sandakan dengan Telupid dipercepatkan bagi menggantikan jalan raya sedia ada yang mengalami kerosakan demi kepentingan pengguna.

Pengarah Jabatan Kerja Raya (JKR) Sabah, Datuk Ir Ali Ahmad Hamid, berkata tiga pakej pembinaan Lebuh raya Pan Borneo di laluan berkenaan dengan jarak sepanjang 58 kilometer dijadual siap sepenuhnya pada 2025.

Beliau berkata, kontraktor bagi ketiga-tiga pakej itu sudah dimaklumkan bagi mempercepatkan penyiapan kerja pembinaan dua daripada empat lorong bagi lebuh raya berkenaan dalam tempoh 18 bulan sebelum beralih ke dua lagi lorong selebihnya.

*Kredit foto: FMT

Katanya, pembaikan kerosakan jalan raya sedia ada tidak berbaloi kerana ia tidak dapat dilaksanakan dengan kaedah penyelenggaraan biasa atau tampalan memandangkan keadaan jalan yang sudah melangkaui jangka hayat selain peruntukan yang ada juga terhad.

Penjelasan itu bagi menjawab rungutan pengguna jalan raya yang tidak berpuas hati terhadap keadaan jalan raya yang mengalami
kerosakan
 hingga ada menyifatkannya seperti permukaan bulan terutama di laluan Sandakan - Telupid yang menjadi penghubung utama di antara pantai timur dengan pantai barat Sabah.


Ford Ranger 2.0L XL 4x4 Single Cab Dilancarkan - RM98,888

Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC)
 selaku pengedar tunggal jenama Ford di Malaysia telah memperluas barisan
Ranger
generasi baharu dengan penambahan varian 2.0 liter XL 4x4 Single Cab.

Varian baharu ini menawarkan lebih ketahanan dan boleh diharap untuk menjadi rakan kerja yang dipercayai bagi pelanggan di sini.

Lebih Stabil, Lebih Kukuh dan Lebih Luas

Sama seperti semua barisan Ranger generasi baharu, varian XL Single Cab menerima kelebihan jarak jejak dan jarak antara rodanya yang 50 mm lebih panjang, memberikan lebih kestabilan baik ketika di atas jalan atau off-road, berserta sudut mendekati dan pergi yang lebih baik.

Apa yang lebih penting, dengan kelebihan ukuran dimensi yang terlibat itu, Ranger XL Single Cab generasi baharu menawarkan ruang kargo tunggal yang paling besar bagi sesebuah trak pikap dalam pasaran ketika ini.

Dengan ukuran 2,332 mm panjang, 1,420 mm lebar dan 540 mm tinggi, ruang kargo di belakang membolehkan pelanggan untuk membawa lebih banyak barangan atau memuatkan barangan yang lebih besar dan panjang seperti
plywood
 untuk binaan atau palet bersaiz penuh. Jarak kelegaan tanah juga lebih tinggi dengan 230 mm.

Terdapat juga enam cangkuk kargo yang diletakkan pada tiub landasan logam bagi memudahkan pengguna mengikat barangan dengan selamat.

Untuk kepelbagaian ketika bekerja di lokasi luar, pintu ruangan kargo berkenaan boleh juga bertindak sebagai pelantar kerja dengan pembaris dan poket cengkam untuk mengukur, memegang dan memotong bahan binaan.

Lebih Praktikal, Lebih Maju

Walaupun merupakan varian paling asas, Ranger XL Single Cab generasi baharu juga datang standard dengan teknologi bersepadu maju yang setara dengan barisan variannya yang lebih mahal. Ciri utama keterhubungan ini adalah skrin sentuh 10.1-inci yang pertama dalam kelasnya serta sistem hiburan dan komunikasi Ford SYNC® 4A dengan Apple CarPlay™ dan Android Auto™ tanpa wayar.

Panel instrumen lapan-inci digital pula telah menggantikan sistem analog, membolehkan lebih banyak maklumat dipaparkan untuk pemandu.

Kelengkapan lain yang ada ialah:

Dua slot USB

Satu soket kuasa 12-volt,

Dua beg udara

Sistem brek cegah kunci (ABS) dengan agihan daya brek elektronik dengan kawalan cengkaman

Kawalan menuruni curam

Bantuan mula mendaki

Penghindaran daripada terbalik

Kawalan olengan bahagian belakang

Di luar, Ranger XL Single Cab generasi baharu tampil ringkas dengan:

Rim 16-inci aloi

Gril depan standard

Bampar depan warna badan dengan bampar belakang hitam

Lampu utama halogen

Lampu kabus belakang

cangkuk penyelamat di depan

lampu nyalaan siang

lampu henti LED di belakang.

Prestasi Enjin

Ranger XL generasi baharu dikuasakan oleh enjin Ford yang telah terbukti, unit 2.0 liter Single Turbo diesel yang menghasilkan 170 PS pada 3,500 rpm dan tork puncak 405 Nm pada 1,750-2,500 rpm.

Ini digandingkan bersama transmisi manual enam-kelajuan baharu yang memakan masa selama empat tahun untuk dibangunkan, menampilkan set gear baharu dengan peralihan yang lebih lancar.

Menurut Pengarah Urusan, Sime Darby Auto ConneXion-Ford, Turse Zuhair, walaupun lebih ramai pelanggan memilih Ranger untuk gaya hidup, namun perhatian tetap diberikan terhadap segmen pelanggan yang menggunakannya untuk tujuan utilitarian dan menggalas kerja berat.

Dengan penambahan varian baharu ini, pelanggan kini mempunyai pilihan untuk membeli trak pikap peringkat kemasukan yang boleh dipercayai untuk menjalankan tugas dengan baik,” ujar

Pilihan warna bagi Ranger XL Single Cab generasi baharu ini termasuklah Absolute Black, Aluminium Metallic, Arctic White dan Meteor Grey.

Waranti

Ranger XL Single Cab generasi baharu datang dengan jaminan pengeluar selama lima-tahun atau 160,000 km, yang mana dahulu. Pelanggan boleh juga memilih untuk melanjutkan tempoh jaminan sehingga tujuh-tahun untuk ketenangan fikiran.

Harga

Dijual pada harga RM98,888 (atas jalan, tidak termasuk insurans dan cukai jalan, untuk Semenanjung Malaysia), dan RM104,388 (atas jalan, tidak termasuk insurans dan cukai jalan, untuk Sabah dan Sarawak).

Untuk maklumat lanjut tentang Ranger generasi baharu, SDAC dan Ford, ikuti Ford Malaysia di Facebook, Instagram, Twitter dan YouTube channel atau layari
www.sdacford.com.my
.


Tokyo 2015: Suzuki Ignis Returns

After nearly a seven-year hiatus, the Suzuki Ignis crossover is set to return. Previous models of the Ignis were jointly developed by Suzuki and General Motors.
The previous generation Ignis was sold in Japan and Europe under the Suzuki brand. It was also sold in Australia and South America as the Holden Cruze and Chevrolet Cruze (unrelated to the C-segment sedan of the same name) before it was discontinued in 2008.
Today, Suzuki announced that an all-new Suzuki Ignis will make its global debut at the coming Tokyo Motor Show 2015, which opens at the end of October.
Understandably, Suzuki has yet to provide much details about the all-new Ignis but reports by the Japanese media say that the car will be powered by a 1.2-litre engine, paired to a mild hybrid system.
They also indicated the Ignis measures 3,700 mm long, 1,660 mm wide and 1,595 mm high. That would mean that the Ignis will have a smaller footprint than a Suzuki Swift, but rides 85 mm higher.


2018 Jaguar XE SV Project 8 Announced, 300 Units Worldwide

Jaguar Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) has announced a more powerful version of the XE called the XE SV Project 8. Production is limited to 300 units worldwide.
According to SVO, a prototype of the Jaguar has went through its debut test at Nürburgring Nordschleife wearing an exclusive camouflage by SVO design.
Power is derived from Jaguar Land Rover's 5.0-litre supercharged V8 that does 600 PS. Following the success of the Jaguar F-Type Project 7, the XE SV Project 8 will be the company's second Collectors' Edition car. SVO said that the XE will be hand-built at their Technical Centre in Coventry.
In base form, the Jaguar XE competes against the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Audi A4. The uprated XE SV, with 600PS on tap, comfortably outmuscles other performance flagship models of the competition, such as the BMW M3 (431PS), Mercedes-AMG C63S (510PS), and even the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio (510PS).
Jaguar will reveal the XE SV Project 8's full specifications on their official site on 28 June. Come 30 June at Goodwood Festival of Speed, the most powerful road-legal Jaguar in history will see its world debut.


Bangkok 2017: Volvo Launches V90 But Only in Diesel

Volvo isn't having the best of time in the region, despite making a massively strong comeback in the European region with their latest line of products. While we hope the launch of the
V90 and S90 over here will help to revitalize the brand
, there's still a long way to go- and it's clear that our neighbours up in Thailand have the same kind of issue. Last year they only managed to move 1,260 units, but they are hoping to triple that over the next few years.
And one of the models to help them along is the all-new V90, which they've just launched at their Bangkok Motor Show. The car is only available with a singular D4 diesel powertrain, which we don't have for our models here (possibly due to fuel and market sentiment), but this 2.0-litre turbodiesel pushes a whopping 190 hp and 400 Nm of torque, making it just as effective in most real world conditions as the variants we get here.
What's the asking price for one of these sexy new Swedes? An eye-watering 4.19 million baht (or RM 537,775.52). Yes, perhaps now our local models seem like quite the bargain in comparison, especially since Thailand's tax on CBU products is fairly insane. Their specifications are fairly similar to ours, with the full monty in terms of features and specs (as they should well do given that they cannot currently compete on price or volume), so for those Thai owners willing to take a chance on a Volvo they will be plesantly surprised.


2016 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Facelift Debuts: More Power, More Tech

As the Goodwood Festival of Speed is well underway,
Mercedes-Benz
 has just revealed it new 2016
A-Class
 range. The compact hatch has been fitted with an update to its styling, more power, and lots more tech.
We understood for a while now that the A 45 AMG, also updated,
was due for a run up the Goodwood hillclimb challenge
, so in conjunction with that reveal, here is Mercedes-Benz taking it all off for us (you can
check out the new AMG A 45 here as well
). So let’s take a look at what’s new, starting with…
Performance and Powertrains:
Making the model even more affordable than before is a new entry-level version of the A-Class hatch, the A 160. The new petrol powered entry-level variant packs a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine that makes just 102hp and 180Nm of torque. There’s also a new A 180 d (‘d’ standing for diesel), which is the company’s latest fuel-saving champ A-Class: returning 3.5-litres/100km, whilst emitting just 89g/km of CO2.
The rest of the engine line-up appear to have been given more power. The popular A 250’s 2.0-litre turbocharged four-pot for example, has been tweaked for 7hp more than before – the A 200’s 1.6-litre remains unchanged.
Interestingly, Mercedes-Benz is for the first time offering their A 250 variants with a manual transmission. They haven’t revealed how many cogs just yet, but from these images, it looks like six. As a six-speeder manual, the A-Class does away with Benz’s latest Direct Select Shift gear stalk on the steering column, and is seen with a conventional gear lever rising up from the centre console, replacing what is a storage box on the automatic variants.
For the A-Class variants equipped with the good ol’ 7G-DCT dual-clutch automatic transmission, Benz has updated it with a new Launch Assist function – we don’t have to tell you what this does for you, do we?
The Dynamic Select drive modes are also now available for the A-Class, which allows drivers to choose from Comfort, Normal and Sport modes that shake up throttle response, the adaptive suspension and gear shift points, rather than before, where only transmission mapping was possible.
Click
this link for the AMG A 45.
Exterior Styling Updates:
The front-end of the new A-Class appears to be a lot more narrower than the pre-facelift version, largely because of the new arrow-shaped front bumper – reminiscent of the Concept A-Class that previewed the coming model back in 2011.
The headlamps themselves have been redesigned, and here, are equipped with the optional LED High Performance kit from Benz – standard stuff on the A 45 AMG.
Around the rear, the taillights have been redesigned, and if you look further downwards, the exhaust tips are now integrated into the rear bumper.
As always, different design lines will change up the look of the baby Benz, and one of these new lines include a special Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula 1 themed kit, called the Motorsport Edition – more on this below.
Interior Design, Luxury & Tech:
Moving inside, new interior colours and materials are available, as well as finishes for the trim in the dashboard. These include a sahara beige/ black leather in the Exclusive package and a new seat design with red or green highlights in the Style line. Speaking of the seats, Benz says that refinements for its new A-Class are so meticulous, you may not even notice that they’ve added new seat cushion depth adjustment by up to 60 mm – a standard feature in all equipment lines.
As expected, the instrument panel has been updated with new graphics and galvanised switches. The free-standing display screen can also now be specified to a 8-inch version, utilising the COMAND Online option. For the infotainment, Benz has updated its systems to feature Apple’s CarPlay, and also MirrorLink technology – these two only become available in 2016.
Just like the B-Class was treated to on its facelift, the new A-Class also gets the option of ambient lighting with up to 12 different colours with five dimming levels to choose from
Motorsport Edition:
Available for all variants from the A 200 and upwards (except the A 45 AMG), the Motorsport Edition brings with it’s a whole lot of “petrol green” paint, particularly around areas of the front and rear bumpers, the wing mirror exteriors, and the AMG wheels. There’s also an AMG rear wing, if you specify an A 250 variant as your choice.
It’s more of the same inside, with the bright shade of green stitched into the upholstery, and surrounding the three circular air-vents on the dash. Just like the AMG line, a black leather/DINAMICA microfiber upholstery is used.
Coming to Malaysia?
You bet. When? We can’t say for sure. Together with this announcement, Mercedes-Benz say that in Europe, customers may place their orders from July 3, while showrooms there are only expected to see the car in September this year.
For Malaysia, we imagine a slightly later date for the A-Class’s arrival. Surely, it will come, given Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s successes with their compact models locally. While 2016 is looking like the year of the SUV for MBM, we won’t be too surprised to them launch their A-Class here as well.
UPDATE : The 2016 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Facelift has now
launched in Malaysia
!


Beijing 2018: Lexus To Unveil New Model, All-New ES?

Lexus has teased us with a rather interesting image of a new model with their brand identifying spindle grille.
Due to be fully unveiled at the Beijing Motor Show later this month, there are no accompanying information on this new model, apart from the headline of ‘Expect the Unexpected’.
The pattern within the new spindle grille is also of big interest, as it is a noticeable departure from the usual patterns of either diamond mesh or horizontal bars.
Looking at the range of newly-launched Lexus models recently, one might assume it is another SUV. However, we firmly believe this could well be the all-new Lexus ES sedan, which is due for replacement soon. Coincidentally, the
facelift Lexus ES model was also unveiled in China, at the Auto Shanghai in 2015
.
We recently
spoke to the Lexus LS 500 Chief Engineer, Toshio Asahi
, and he explained that the spindle grille is a very core part of Lexus' identity, and to establish a design identity, it needs to be reinforced over multiple generations.


Geneva 2018: Audi e-Tron Prototype Debut – Audi’s First Full-Electric Model

Audi has previewed the prototype of its first all-electric model, dubbed the Audi e-Tron, just ahead of its 2018 Geneva Motor Show debut. The sporty SUV is claimed to combine the space and comfort of a typical luxury vehicle with a driving range suitable for everyday use.
Audi has confirmed that production versions will be able to fully recharge at fast-charging stations with up to 150 kW charging capacity, in just under 30 minutes.
Little is known of the e-Tron’s electric motor or motors capacity, but Audi has confirmed that the production version will distribute power to all four wheels through an electrical quattro all-wheel drive system.
In the meantime, prototypes have been deployed for road testing in various locations around the world, such as Scandinavia, Africa, Asia and even the North Loop of the Nürburgring.
Audi is testing vehicles performance in climate zones ranging from below -20 to above +50 degrees Celsius, in dense traffic conditions (such as China), and high-altitude environments in mountainous regions.
In addition, intensive tests of the charging technology are being conducted worldwide. The individual charging standards are tested on proving grounds and in public areas to validate the full range of different charging options.
In total, just under 250 Audi e-Tron prototypes are used in the tests; collectively, they are expected to cover more than five-million km, and spend up to 85,000 hours on the road.
Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG. “In 2020 we will have three all-electric vehicles in our product range, with a four-door Gran Turismo – the production version of the Audi e-tron Sportback concept – and a model in the compact segment joining the sporty SUV. We will be launching more than 20 electric cars and plug-in hybrids by 2025 – spread across all segments and concepts.”
As seen in the pictures, the Audi e-Tron does not wear the “traditional” camouflage as seen on other pre-production vehicles - a specially developed design film, with graphics that mimic a high-voltage grid, and orange elements illustrate the fact that the Audi e-tron prototype is fully electric. The sills, featuring colorful inserts, indicate where the battery is located.
The Audi e-tron will be launched on the European market at the end of 2018, and be produced at Audi’s carbon-neutral plant in Brussels, Belgium.
Prior to the world premiere, part of the Audi e-tron test fleet will be out on public roads wearing their electrifying camouflage. The cars will be driven past prominent sites in the Swiss metropolis at the start of the motor show, so the general public can snap pictures and engage on social media.


Toyota Launches An App That Rewards You With Free Coffee

Aichi Prefecture, in Japan, has an extremely high rate of car accidents. In 2015 alone, 44,369 people were injured or killed by car accidents, and 50,101 people were arrested on the basis of using a smartphone while driving. This has made the prefecture the worst in Japan, and as a result a number of companies have gotten together to launch an initiative: "AICHI: No Longer the Worst". Toyota will be launching their own campaign this month in conjunction with the Japanese government's 2016 Autumn Traffic Safety Campaign.
One of the first parts of this initiative is a smartphone application, developed in conjunction with Toyota, Komeda, and KDDI. In simple terms, the application is aimed at getting drivers to stop using their smartphones while driving in an effort to reduce these road accidents. Driving Barista, as it is known, uses both the gyroscope and GPS functionality of a user's smartphone. Users must place their phones face down on a flat surface while they drive, and if they don't flip the phone back up while on the move they will be rewarded with coffee.
It goes without saying that the application only works within Aichi, and that if the driver touches the phon while on the move they will lose their accumulated kilometres. Komeda is the company providing the free coffee, with coupons being exchangable for a cup of blended coffee or an iced coffee at any of the chain's shops. It's a good idea and initiative, although the coupons are provided after the first 100 kilometres, and every 200 kilometres of driving after that. It's quite an extreme distance for what is essentially city driving, but it's still better than no initiative at all.
Will the program work in actually bringing fatalities down to zero? Perhaps, although it really depends on how much the people of Aichi value their coffee. In many cases, smartphone use while driving is driven for a variety of reasons- and coffee alone may not be enough to put an end to this. Integration of these features with the car's onboard multimedia system would be a much more effective idea in keeping a driver's hands on the wheel.


Toyota And Honda Win Big At The ASEAN NCAP Grand Prix 2018 Awards

The New Car Assessment Program for Southeast Asian Countries (ASEAN NCAP) concluded its third bi-annual ASEAN NCAP Grand Prix 2018 awards ceremony in West Java, Indonesia yesterday, where Toyota and Honda won four and two awards respectively.
The star of the night was Toyota, which bagged four awards at the ceremony which are as follows:
ASEAN NCAP Excellence Award for the Most 5-star Brand (2017-2018)
ASEAN NCAP Excellence Award- Continuous Safety Improvement (
Vios
 and Rush)
Best Adult Occupant Protection Award (C-HR)
Toyota also happened to receive the highest number of 5-star vehicle safety rating in evaluations conducted by the ASEAN NCAP in 2017-2018.
With the addition of new and enhanced safety features, both the Vios and the Rush have been able to receive 5-star ratings from ASEAN NCAP in the year 2017 and 2018, respectively.
The C-HR on the other hand, was presented with the
Best Adult Occupant Protection Award
 as it sustained the least damage during frontal and side crash tests.
Meanwhile, Honda bagged two awards at the ceremony:
Best SUV for Child Occupant Protection (CR-V)
ASEAN NCAP Excellent Award - Consistent 5 Star (CR-V)
The 5th generation
Honda CR-V
, which was awarded a 5-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating, was selected as the safest car in the SUV car category in Child Occupant Protection (COP).
Having sold more than 70,000 units across the region, the 5th generation CR-V has also received several prestigious awards in ASEAN countries, including:
Carlist.my’s Car of the Year 2017
Thailand Car of the Year 2017
CAGI’s Philippines Car of the Year 2017
FORWOT’s Car of the Year Indonesia 2017


Nama Rasmi Perodua D55L –  Ativa, Axeda, Kembara Atau Nautica?

Nama rasmi bagi model baharu
Perodua D55L
 yang dijangka akan dilancarkan pada awal bulan Mac ini masih menjadi tanda tanya. Nmun terdapat juga beberapa nama yang dijangka akan digunakan oleh Perodua bagi model ini.

Terdapat desas-desus mengatakan bahawa nama Perodua D55L ini akan bermula dengan Huruf A. Oleh kerana Perodua tidak mendaftarkan mana-mana nama baharu di laman MyIPO setelah beberapa tahun, terdapat kemungkinan bahawa mereka telah memilih nama bagi model D55L ini dengan menggunakan nama yang telah didaftarkan oleh mereka beberapa tahun lalu. Menurut semakan di laman MyIPO, terdapat 3 nama yang bermula daripada huruf ‘A’ yang telah didaftarkan oleh Perodua – Ativa, Axeda dan Atriva.

Walau bagaimanapun, salah satu daripada 3 hakcipta nama tersebut, Atriva telah pun tamat tempoh dan tidak diperbaharui oleh
Perodua
. Maksudnya, sekiranya betul nama Perodua ini akan bermula daripada huruf ‘A’, hanya ada dua kemungkinan, Ativa dan Axeda.

Dalam Bahasa Portugis, perkataan Ativa membawa maksud aktif dalam Bahasa Malaysia. Selain mudah untuk diingati dan mudah disebut, nama Ativa ini merupakan nama yang sesuai dan bertepatan dengan konsep dan karakter
SUV
 yang sering dikenali sebagai kenderaan untuk gaya hidup yang aktif.

Selain itu, hasil carian kami, perkataan Axeda dalam bahasa Romania membawa maksud ‘kapak’ dalam Bahasa Malaysia. Berdasarkan maksud nama tersebut, ia juga menonjolkan ciri-ciri lasak dan ganas yang mungkin juga bersesuaian dengan Perodua D55L ini. Namun ini hanya andaian sahaja buat masa ini.

Tidak dilupakan, Perodua masih lagi memperbaharui tempoh hak cipta nama Kembara dan Nautica setelah lebih 20 tahun! Memandangkan dua nama ini merupakan nama paling lama berbanding Ativa dan Axeda, adakah Perodua akan menggunakan kembali nama ini?

Siapa yang tak kenal Perodua Kembara kan? Kereta Perodua
pacuan empat roda
 yang berasakan Daihatsu Terios ini agak popular dalam kalangan rakyat Malaysia satu ketika dahulu. Namun model ini telah dihentikan pengeluarannya pada tahun 2008 dan digantikan dengan Perodua Nautica, juga berdasarkan model Daihatsu Terios yang terbaru.

Walau bagaimanapun, Perodua Nautica yang dikeluarkan pada tahun 2008 ini kurang mendapat sambutan ekoran harga yang agak mahal pada ketika itu. Mana taknya, harganya bermula daripada RM89,000 ketika dilancarkan menjadikannya sebagai kereta termahal Perodua ketika itu. Jika dilihat kembali sejarah lama ini, mungkin Kembara atau Nautica akan buat kemunculan semula pada bulan Mac ini dengan harga yang lebih berpatutan?

Masih tiada kenyataan rasmi daripada pihak Perodua berkenaan nama ini. Difahamkan, Perodua D55L ini telah pun memasuki fasa pengeluaran pada awal bulan ini. Perodua D55L ini juga telah menjalani segala latihan dan ujian jalan raya, jadi yang tinggal pada masa ini hanyalah tarikh nak lancar sahaja!

Oleh kerana masih tiada kenyataan rasmi mengenai nama terbaru Perodua D55L ini, kemungkinan nama yang akan dipilih ialah Ativa, Axeda, Kembara atau Nautica. Antara empat nama ini, mana satu yang menjadi pilihan anda? Kongsikan dengan kami!

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

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Carlist.my.

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CarlistBid.my
.


SPAD Approval Required For KL-Padang Besar ETS, Inspections Ongoing

Approval of the Land Transport Commission (SPAD) is required for operations to begin on the Kuala Lumpur - Padang Besar Electric Train Service (ETS).
Bernama
 reports SPAD is still in the process of inspecting the ETS strains and railways lines, according to chairman Tan Sri Syed Hamid Albar. He said SPAD would approve of operation once public safety is assured when using the service.
After the launch of SPAD’s Mobile Operation Vehicles (MoVs) in Kuala Lumpur yesterday, June 30, Syed Hamid said: “We have told them already (postponement of operation), but we have to take action if they flout the law, we need to inspect quite a number of their tracks and trains.”
KTMB announced on Thursday, June 25, that the 329km ETS service would be operational very soon and can be used to travel during the Hari Raya Aidifitri festive period. However, this timeframe has been
hampered by approval delays with SPAD
.
Meanwhile, Syed Hamid told the news agency that SPAD is expected to issue 400 Temporary Conversion Licences (LPS) to add additional buses to meet the demands of travellers during the 'balik kampung' season. Any hikes in bus fares, however, must first be approved by the Cabinet.
Additionally, the MOV units that were launched recently were revealed by Syed Hamid to function as mobile operation centres with video recording facilities, closed circuit television, and infrared cameras.
“We will use the MOVs to issue notices directly to public vehicles flouting the traffic laws on the road without having to refer to the SPAD headquarters first. The two units will operate in the Klang Valley,” he added.


2023 Proton X50 R3 Edition unveiled - 200 units only!

Proton has unveiled its latest 2023 Proton X50 R3 20th Anniversary Limited Edition model at the Malaysia Autoshow 2023.

As you may have read in the title, only 200 units will go into production and bookings will be opened during the Malaysia Autoshow 2023 period which is taking place from 4-7 May 2023.

Based on the Proton X50 Flagship model, the limited edition Proton X50 R3 comes with all the bells and whistles that you would expect from the range-topping Proton X50 model. This, however, has been given the R3 treatment and judging by the looks, it is indeed a head-turner.

What's on show at the Proton booth here at the Malaysia Autoshow 2023 event grounds is marked as the Proton X50 R3 Concept (as seen on the plates), which can mean that the production version might be slightly different from the one on display this weekend at MAEPS Serdang.

At first glance, the Proton X50 R3 edition comes with the exclusive Black body colour with a matte finish garnished with yellow highlights. You'll also find other R3 garnishes like the full body kit, bonnet stripe, radiator grille logo, tailgate nameplate, interior nameplate, and customised 3D floor mats.

Perhaps the biggest upgrade has to be the R3 18-inch flow-formed lightweight wheels that certainly tie everything together. As far as we're concerned at the moment, the Proton X50 R3 20th Anniversary Edition is purely an upgrade in terms of looks, but who knows, there might be some performance upgrades as well once Proton finalises the production version.

No word on the pricing just yet, but only 200 units will go into production and bookings can be placed at the Malaysia Autoshow 2023. Want one? Try to be at MAEPS Serdang early in the morning and get your booking slot from 4-7 May 2023.


UMW Toyota Excites Us With March Specials

The excitement of 2018 continues into the month of March! From now until 31
st
 March, Toyota is offering special promotions for a range of their popular models.
The popular Toyota Vios sedan, now fitted with front parking sensors, shark fin antenna, and improved infotainment system includes a free maintenance package, worth RM 2,125 on top of a cash rebate of up to RM 3,500. In total, buyers this month can enjoy a value of up to RM 8,200 in savings!
Toyota Capital service is also offering a financing plan which allows fresh graduates to be proud owners of a new Toyota Vios from just RM 675 a month.
The Toyota Camry large sedan meanwhile offer buyers a cash rebate of RM 3,000 and a choice of either a free body coating package worth RM 2,700 or accessories worth up to RM 2,500.
Meanwhile, the newly introduced Avanza X includes a set 16-inch tyres and wheels (worth RM 3,062) for free or a RM 1,000 cash rebate.
If you are seeking for a larger MPV, the Toyota Innova with 7 airbags, electronic stability control and air conditioning vents for all occupants now includes a free maintenance package worth RM 1,000 plus a cash rebate of RM 2,000.
The commanding and premium styling Toyota Fortuner large SUV, now with the option of the high specifications (LED headlamps, 18-inch wheels, ESC, 7 airbags) 2.4-litre diesel in either 4x2 or 4x4 drivetrain gets free accessories worth RM 2,500 plus a cash rebate of RM 1,000.
Completing the diverse range of Toyota models, the Hilux pick-up now includes an accessories package worth up to RM 3,485 and a cash rebate of RM 1,000.
All new Toyota models come with a 5-year, unlimited mileage warranty (except the Toyota Hilux, with a maximum mileage coverage of 150,000 km).


Mercedes-Benz GLE 580 4Matic Hybrid Unveiled – 48V Hybrid, EQ Boost

Mercedes-Benz has further expanded the global GLE model range with the introduction of the 48V mild-hybrid Mercedes-Benz GLE 580 4Matic. The GLE is the second model in the SUV lineup to gain the powertrain after the
flagship GLS
.
At the heart of the GLE 580 4Matic is a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 with a 48-volt onboard electrical system and integrated starter generator (ISG). The ISG is responsible for energy recuperation and also provides additional power in EQ Boost mode for short periods depending on the driving conditions. The GLS 580’s power is rated at 489 hp and 700 Nm, with an additional 22 hp/250 Nm available from the EQ Boost function.
The ISG eliminates the need for a belt drive for ancillary components at the front of the engine, which reduces its overall length. The slim design of the engine, together with the physical separation of the intake/exhaust, creates space for a close-coupled exhaust after treatment. The 48 V onboard electrical system also provides power for the water pump and air-conditioning compressor.
Another highlight of the GLE, courtesy of the 48V onboard electrical architecture is the optional Mercedes-Benz E-Active Body Control, which among other things can even make the
rather large GLE dance
.
The GLE 580 is equipped as standard with variable the 4Matic all-wheel drive system, Airmatic active suspension, and the latest version of the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) multimedia system with voice and gesture control.
The GLE 580 4Matic goes on sale in the US later this year.


Specs Comparison: Toyota Rush vs Honda BR-V

For the good part of this decade, Toyota has been the ridiculed for the high prices and low safety feature of its cars, while Honda has been winning praises from the general public. The once-mighty Toyota, which used to be the best-selling non-national brand in Malaysia for over two decades, lost its mantle to Honda in 2016.
It took Big T quite a while to shape up and prepare for a counterattack, but the recently launched seven-seater Toyota Rush - a direct rival to the seven-seater Honda BR-V - is a testament that competition brings out better value for consumers.
The Rush is offered in two variants – 1.5G and 1.5S, estimated at RM 93,000 and RM 98,000 respectively, with deliveries to begin in January. At a glance, that’s more than what Honda charges for the BR-V 1.5E and 1.5V, priced at RM 80,900 and RM 87,701 respectively.
However it is the Rush that offers more for your money. Some of the safety features included are not even available in a higher range Civic. Safety and value are two things that you don’t normally associate with Toyota.
Where the Honda offers only two airbags, Toyota offers six across the Rush range. It also more than matches the Honda’s hill-start assist and electronic stability control, extending the list to include blind spot monitor, 360-degree panoramic view parking camera, autonomous emergency braking (Pre-collision System) and rear cross traffic alert – all of which is not even available in a higher range Civic.
The inclusion of rear cross traffic alert is appreciated for a tall riding vehicle like a Rush as regular reverse cameras are not sufficient to alert the driver of approaching cars, motorcycles or even pedestrians when reversing out onto a busy street.
Crucially, these safety features come as standard for all Rush variants, except for the
Pre-collision feature
, which is only available in the 1.5S variant.
The Rush’s camera-only Pre-collision system is a rather simple system. It’s more sophisticated than the ones used on a Perodua Myvi but it’s nothing close to the camera plus radar-based
Honda Sensing
 system used in the
Accord
, CR-V, and Odyssey.
Still, Pre-collision offers the two most important functions you need: forward collision warning and autonomous emergency braking. The system works at speeds of up to 100 km/h. Collision is avoidable for speeds no more than 30 km/h (subject to road and tyre conditions). Beyond that, the system reduces the severity of the collision.
Inside, the Rush is also a better place to sit. In the 1.5S variant, the leather materials are of a higher grade than those used in the BR-V. The Rush’s seats are also thicker, firmer and offer better support than the BR-V. The two-tone finishing in the interior also give the Rush’s cabin little more flair.
Both the second and third row seats also offer more legroom than the BR-V, which is surprising even though the BR-V has a 15 mm longer wheelbase. Toyota’s own internal data claims that the Rush offers 57 mm more legroom in the second-row than the BR-V.
However, it’s also a case of two steps forward and one step backward for the Rush, as its air-conditioning lacks a front demister and you can’t adjust the blower to divert air to your feet. If the front windscreen fogs up in the rain, you have to either manually switch the air-conditioning to fresh air mode (disable recirculation) or lower the windows slightly.
However, the Rush’s biggest weakness is
powertrain refinement
. Underneath the Rush’s slightly snazzier body are still mechanical bits derived from the utilitarian Avanza, which is also developed by Daihatsu.
At speeds, the Rush’s 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine buzzes more than the BR-V. The latter shares the same underpinnings as a passenger car Honda City/Jazz and is thus slightly more refined.
Contrary to popular opinion. The Rush’s 1.5-litre Dual VVT-i is not related to the Vios’, despite having the same 1,496 cc capacity. The front-wheel drive Vios uses an aluminum block 2NR-FE engine while the rear-wheel drive Rush uses a steel block 2NR-VE engine developed by Daihatsu, used mainly by the Perodua Myvi and Toyota Avanza.
The Rush’s 4-speed automatic also means that gear ratios are adjusted more for acceleration and there isn’t enough spread for the engine to make a lazy cruise on highways. At a speed of 110 km/h, the Rush’s tachometer was already hovering at around 3,500 rpm.
The BR-V’s CVT-type automatic is not every enthusiast driver’s favourite (but if you want an exciting drive, why are you looking at these cars?) but it’s highly effective in keeping the engine revs at its most optimal range. Our time with the Rush is not enough for us to evaluate its fuel efficiency but we don’t think it will be better than the BR-V.
The Rush’s Avanza underpinnings also means that it can never be as comfortable or as agile as the passenger car-based BR-V. With just two persons onboard, the Rush’s ride quality can be below average but the ride gets better with more load.
It might sound odd but the BR-V is actually more comfortable than a Honda City, as it’s a regional model aimed at the region's poorer road conditions. Plus, the BR-V’s longer wheelbase and wider track than the City also helps. In fast sweeping corners, the BR-V is surprisingly well composed, when judged by the standards of a budget seven-seater. The same however cannot be said for the Toyota Rush.
Being a rear-wheel drive, the Rush has a significantly smaller turning radius – 5.2 metre versus the front-wheel drive BR-V’s 5.6 metres, making the Toyota ideal for tight U-turns and parking.
Also, the Rush has a 220 mm ground clearance versus the BR-V’s 201 mm. Depending on what you want, this can be both good and bad. The taller ride height means that the Rush won’t be as agile as the BR-V but it’s definitely more capable at wading through flash floods. Urban SUVs don’t need four-wheel drives but flash floods are something many of us encounter during the monsoon season.
The more space-efficient front-wheel drive BR-V also offers slightly more boot capacity (233 litres) than the rear-wheel drive Rush (217 litres), which has to pack more mechanical bits under the boot floor.
There is no perfect car. Each has its own pros and cons. Consumers have to make a choice between driving comfort and safety features. Evaluating the type of driving conditions that you encounter most will help you decide better. If you don’t travel at highway speeds for extended periods of time, perhaps the Rush’s higher levels of safety equipment might make it a better choice. The BR-V on the other hand, is better suited for longer distance drives.
Read more:
Honda BR-V Review
 (produced in 2017, before second generation Rush's introduction)
Toyota Rush first impression drive


Perodua Extends Hand To Customers Affected By Recent Sabah Earthquake

Perodua
 has announced its objective to help their customers that have been affected by the recent earthquake in Sabah, easing their burden by offering free inspections, towing assist and discounts on selected parts.
“Our hopes and prayers are with the people of Sabah during this trying times and our condolences to the victims’ families,”
“We sympathise with those affected and we wish to contribute to those recovering from this disaster,” Perodua President & CEO, Datuk Aminar Rashid Salleh said.
In regards to the assistance offered by Perodua, Aminar said the compact car company will reimburse up RM100 in towing fees to the nearest authorised Perodua Service centre. Therein, the car will undergo inspection and repairs.
Additionally, a 20% discount on selected genuine parts will be offered to those whose cars are being repaired due to damaged caused by the Friday earthquake.
Should any Perodua customer need assistance or more information, they are advised to call the Smart Assist hotline at 1-800-88-5555.
The 5.9 magnitude earthquake hit the state on Friday, July 5th 2015, with its epicentre approximately 15km north of the town of Ranau.


Hyundai Teases First Image Of The Fourth-Generation Santa Fe

Hyundai has unveiled the first image of its upcoming fourth-generation Santa Fe SUV, due to celebrate its world premiere in February before making its debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March.
Hyundai claims the new generation Santa Fe will offer a comprehensive package of Hyundai’s latest active safety features under the Smart Sense technology umbrella. This includes an industry-first Rear Occupant Alert, which monitors the rear seats to detect passengers and alerts the driver when leaving the car.
Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning is now enhanced by an automated braking function. To avoid the risk of collision when reversing out of narrow areas with limited visibility, the system warns the driver and applies the brakes automatically.
The Smart Sense package, as offered on the company’s recently launched Kona SUV, also features Forward Collision Warning, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with pedestrian detection, Lane Keep Assist (LKA), High Beam Assist with Static Low Beam Assist, Driver Attention Warning, Blind-Spot Collision Warning.
The silhouette teaser image of the vehicle reveals a strong shoulder line and bold proportions, with the addition of a feature line in the lower regions of the body. The thin, swept-back lines of the headlight would suggest similar design cues as seen on the smaller
Kona
and
Tucson
 SUV models.


Daimler Confirms Second R&D Facility In China

Daimler has announced plans to build a Research and Development Tech Center China with a total investment of over RMB 1.1 billion (USD 158.5 million). This marks the further expansion of the company’s footprint in China and its second major R&D site in Beijing, following the Mercedes-Benz R&D Center first established in 2014.
Located on the premises of the local Beijing Benz Automotive Co. (BBAC) production hub, the R&D Tech Center will allow Daimler to accelerate the localisation of new Mercedes-Benz products, including battery-electric vehicles in China.
Scheduled to start operations in 2020, the R&D Tech Center’s proximity to the production hub will enable the integrated campus concept of local production with R&D, through the existing pilot plant, test track, and test benches at BBAC.
Covering a gross built-up area of 55,000 m-sq., the Daimler R&D Tech Center China will consist of a test building, warehouse, and an office building; which can accommodate up to 600 employees.
It will house a wide array of cutting-edge test facilities for overall vehicle and component testing, ranging from electric drive and charging, powertrain, chassis, in-vehicle air quality, emissions, noise, vibration and harshness (NVH), as well as a consolidated workshop for overall vehicle and endurance testing.
Other Daimler R&D activities also include automated driving, connectivity, and electric drive; in which the China facility has become a key player in Daimler’s global R&D network. In July Daimler became the first international automaker to receive a road test license for Level 4 highly automated driving research vehicles in Beijing.


New MINI Cooper Countryman And Clubman John Cooper Works Launched In Malaysia – 306 hp, RM359k And RM379k

MINI Malaysia today introduced the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman and the new John Cooper Works Clubman, with prices as mentioned below:

MINI John Cooper Works Clubman: RM358,888.00

MINI John Cooper Works Countryman: RM 378,888.00

Powered by a new and more powerful 2.0-litre turbocharged engine which produces 306 hp and 450 Nm of maximum torque, both models are able to hit a top speed of 250 km/h. Paired to the engine is an 8-speed Steptronic Sports Automatic Transmission.

While the John Cooper Works Clubman is able to do the century sprint in 4.9 seconds, the John Cooper Works Countryman does it slightly slower in 5.1 seconds.

Compared to the outgoing JCW Cooper Clubman which made 231 hp and 350 Nm and did the century sprint in 6.3 seconds, the cars we’re looking at here make about 70 hp and 100 Nm more.

Engine aside, both the new JCW Clubman and Countryman come with new sport brakes, tweaked cooling system, and sport exhaust systems to keep the 306 hp in check. They are also equipped with the ALL4 all-wheel drive as standard.

Damping is handled by JCW sport suspension that is 10 mm lower than standard, but the JCW Countryman is specially equipped with Adaptive Suspension.

On the exterior, the JCW Countryman features a new bumper trim panel with open air intakes on both sides, as well as bigger tailpipes of 85 mm in diameter.

The JCW Clubman on the other hand, comes with a completely redesigned appearance from its predecessor, featuring a new honeycomb front grille, a new front bumper, 95 mm exhausts, a front spoiler with a larger splitter and a new insert in the lower grille, a new bumper trim panel, and two external coolant radiators.

Both models come with LED headlights and taillights with LED DRLs, but only the JCW Clubman gets the Union Jack design and Matrix Light Functionality, which is a first for MINI.

The new headlights also feature the Piano Black exterior that provides a glossy black surrounding, while new cornering lights are equipped as standard.

Additionally, both the new MINI JCW Countryman and Clubman are fitted with 19-inch JCW Circuit Spoke Two-Tone wheels, redesigned with edgier racing-inspired looks.

Inside, the JCW variants feature sporty racing seat upholstered in Carbon Black Dinamica Leather, JCW leather steering wheel, JCW instrument cluster, JCW centre display trim, JCW start screen, and also JCW door sills.

They also feature stainless-steel pedals, on top of the MINI Yours Interior Cockpit Surface in Piano Black that illuminates at night in 12 different colours. Also offered as standard is the panoramic sunroof.

In terms of infotainment, the JCW Countryman and Clubman feature the high contrast Head-Up Display, an 8.8-inch Touch Screen Navigation System with a split-screen function, the MINI Connected system, as well as a 360-watt Harman Kardon Sound System.

Other standard features in both models include Electric Tailgate with Easy Opener, Comfort Access, dual-zone automatic air conditioning, MINI Find Mate with Bluetooth tags, MINI Yours Logo Projection, and a new, in-vehicle 4G SIM card. Safety features include Park Assist, Park Distance Control, and a rear-view camera.

Available in four exterior colour choices each, the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman and John Cooper Works Clubman are covered by MINI Malaysia’s 5 Years Roadside Assistance programme, available for all new MINI vehicles with a comprehensive list of services that include a 24-Hour, 365-days-a-year Accident and Help on the Phone and On the Spot Hotline, Free Towing Services and when needed (over 200KM from residential home), Replacement Vehicle, Seamless Mobility, Accommodation, Mobility Services Solutions as well as Repatriation services.

With the Balloon Financing from BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia, ownership of the New MINI John Cooper Works Clubman 306HP starts from RM 4,098.00 per month  (based on estimates of 80% loan on a five-year tenure), while the New MINI John Cooper Works Countryman 306HP starts from RM 4,328.00 per month (based on estimates of 80% loan on a five-year tenure).


Ferrari 296 GTS Premieres In Malaysia - RM1.4 Million

Naza Italia
 has successfully premiered the
Ferrari 296 GTS
 for the first time in Southeast Asia, and it is stunning!

Unveiled at the Sepang International Circuit, the Ferrari 296 GTS is actually the convertible or 'spider' version of the
Ferrari 296 GTB
. Globally launched just two months ago, Malaysia hosted its first SEA appearance.

It's a PHEV?

Correct. Powered by a 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 engine with an electric motor, the power output for this mid-engined supercar is 830PS and 740Nm of torque.

0-100km/h is done in just 2.9 seconds, 0-200km/h in 7.6 seconds and top speed is set at 330km/h. All of that power is sent down to the rear wheels (yup, it's an RWD) via an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.

There's a 74.5/kWh battery sitting behind the seats which give an all-electric driving range of 25km. It's also used to bump up the overall power output that's actually more powerful than the Ferrari F8 Tributo.

GTS for 'Gran Turismo Spider'

The roof of the Ferrari 296 GTS is a two-piece retractable hard top that folds nicely and is flushed over the front of its engine. Ferrari went through a lot of measures to ensure that this can be done successfully without overheating that powerful twin-turbo V6.

Driving with the roof up, it's hard to distinguish it from the Ferrari 296 GTB, which is exactly the intention of Ferrari. When the top is dropped, there's also a system that channels the V6 noise into the cabin to further amp up the driving experience.

Anything else different from the GTB?

Apart from the retractable hard top, the 296 GTS also comes with a different seat design unique to the Spider version and a set of aero flaps on the rear trim structure to help with wind buffeting when the top is down.

It's also slightly heavier than the GTB - 1,540kg (70kg heavier). Despite being slightly chunkier, the GTS was less than a second slower compared to the GTB when they took it out for a hot lap around Fiorano.

Assetto Fiorano track pack

Future owners who are planning to rip the 296 GTS around the track can also get their hands on the Assetto Fiorano pack. This kit contains the Multimatic shock absorbers, carbon fibre parts for added downforce, lightweight appendages, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tyres, and the option to get dressed in the special 250 Le Mans livery.

Price-wise, Naza Italia has stated that the Ferrari 296 GTS can be yours from
RM1.448 million
 (excluding options, taxes, and insurance).

That Assetto Fiorano pack? That's going to be extra. This red 250 LM livery? Also extra, and you can only get it IF you opt for the track-oriented Assetto Fiorano pack.


First Drive: Honda City RS i-MMD - Blurring B-Segment Battle Lines

On the face of it, the arrival of the all-new fifth-generation 2020 Honda City could be considered understated. That is, until you realise that the car hasn’t actually been launched, yet there’s all this hype surrounding the newest version of the popular B-segment contender.

Honda still projects that to happen
before the end of the year
, as vague as that may be, but keep in mind that the range-topping City is unlike any other small saloon car you’ve probably ever driven, and its current absence from showrooms starts to justify itself.

At the Melaka International Motorsports Circuit, we (myself, more accurately) had the pleasure of sampling the variant in question. Called the RS, it’s equipped with Honda’s latest electrified powertrain called i-MMD or Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive. Granted, it just was over a brief couple of laps, but that was enough for it to leave a distinct impression.

Before we get on with that, however, let’s talk a bit more about the overall Malaysian rollout of the incoming all-new 2020 Honda City. First off, buyers who were on the fence about all the new, possibly intimidating tech stuffed into the car should rest easy as this car carries a very similar intuitive spirit to its predecessors.

That said, the car is now larger than its predecessor, as well as being 10mm lower. Overall length has increased by just over 110mm and it is about 54mm wider too, giving it some segment-straddling proportions in person - bigger than B-segment, not quite C-segment.

So far, the variant spread is also expected to remain roughly the same, comprising of the entry-level non-hybrid S, mid-spec E, and higher-end V. What’s more, these variants are to be powered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated i-VTEC engine very similar to the outgoing version, albeit with some enhancements.

You Look Nice Today

The car shown off here looks nearly identical to the version
first seen here in late August
, so if you happened to see the car during its roadshow tour, you already have a pretty good idea of what to expect. It looks rather nice in this dark Passion Red body colour, accented by the gloss/matte black trim and some smatterings of faux carbon fibre weave that play nicely with its new Civic-inspired fascia.

In place of the
outgoing City Hybrid
, which used the automaker’s i-DCD hybrid system, will be the RS. But unlike the car it’s replacing, the RS is a true range-topper with the best equipment levels, cosmetic enhancements, and tech features such as Honda Lane Watch and an almost full assortment of the Honda Sensing suite - more on that later, too. So far, it’s a pretty straightforward generational leap.

This step forward is very apparent when driving the new electrified City as it works
quite differently to other hybrid powertrains
. I knew it would offer up a different sensation, of course, but it still came as a surprise when the started car moving via the electric motor alone while the engine, essentially, is having no direct impact on the spinning wheels.

See, the i-MMD system utilises two electric motors: the Traction Motor, and a smaller electric generator. Sandwiched between these core components are the battery array of 48 lithium-ion cells and the 1.5-litre Atkinson-cycle i-VTEC naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine. What’s important to keep in mind here is how they work in synergy.

The combustion engine and the electric generator work closely together, leaving the Traction Motor to power the car’s motion exclusively. This electric motor is able to generate that impressive 253Nm torque figure - instantaneously - and channel that to the front wheels and onto the road.

In fact, this ‘mode’ of the car being powered directly by the electric Traction Motor is how the City RS operates during the majority of driving situations and endows it with predictably strong acceleration off the line but also quick throttle response in corners. That being said, despite the similarities, this isn’t classified as an EV with a range extender.

This is mainly due to the additional ‘mode’ that the powertrain can switch to, hence the name. When cruising at highway speeds where electric motors are generally less efficient, the car can temporarily decouple from the Traction Motor and receive drive from the 1.5-litre combustion engine via a clutch system to keep the car’s speed constant.

Though the limitations of the preview drive did not allow for high speed tests, we assume that brake regeneration works as normal at high speeds to recoup electric charge and that the Traction Motor would be called upon from time to time to help with overtaking.

It’s true that the City RS i-MMD does drive a lot
like a fully electric car
. The vibrations of the engine can be felt but, because it does not match the road speed or throttle position, it keeps you under the illusion of full EV driving. Naturally, I immediately stomped on the accelerator pedal when the accompanying instructor gave the go-ahead.

Squeaky Clean Torque

The
surge of torque
 was noticeable but was definitely not overwhelming. Note also that I was the first of the many participants lined up to drive the car in quick succession, so the batteries should be cool and fully charged for full power delivery.

Perhaps the sensation was slightly muted, literally, due to the lack of audible feedback - the car just gained speed, yes, though undramatically. A second or two later was when the combustion engine started to make itself known.…or heard. Revs rose high but, again, did not match the road speed or what I was doing with my right foot.

That’s just the nature of the i-MMD powertrain, and I can’t deny that it’s very effective at delivering segment-defying acceleration, and doing so with little fuss - eerily so. I did my best to ignore the wrestling between electric motor and petrol engine, leaving the car to manage its sources of power, focusing instead on the upcoming corners.

MIMC has a series of technical bends that string together before the main straight, and the City RS acquitted itself very well here. The car felt composed and coped surprisingly well despite me (intentionally) giving it full throttle too early on exit. I had expected the instant 253Nm would overcome the front wheels, which were still partially turned, but it pulled cleanly. That’s either a very clever and discreet traction control system or the car not allowing me full power from the electric motor, or both.

The City RS also felt assuredly planted, leaving me to guess that the additional weight of the batteries and the rest of the i-MMD system only serves to lower the centre of gravity and help push the car onto the surface. However, this might be a different story with a load of passengers and a full boot.

The other ‘big deal’ items being offered in the City RS is Honda’s more advanced safety systems. Specifically, LaneWatch and Honda Sensing. The former comes in the form of a stubby protrusion on the passenger side mirror stalk that houses a wide-view camera that provides an incredibly helpful live feed of a driver’s left side blind spot when blipping the turn signal. It’s a feature that’s also coming to the non-hybrid V variant as well and invaluable to those already used to its benefits, and I’d love to see it on the right-hand side as well.

Honda Sensing here is also fully featured - well, nearly. There’s the usual roster of Collision Mitigating (AEB), Forward Collision Warning (now with pedestrian and cyclist detection) Lane Departure Warning, Automatic High Beam, Lane Keep Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Control.

On that last feature, the only thing missing is Low Speed Follow, which is an advanced automated system that enables the car to come to a complete stop to match the car ahead before accelerating again in tandem. At medium to high speeds, the City RS is still able to follow the car ahead while keeping a set distance, and is very competent in this regard next to other systems, but self cancels at speeds below 30km/h, requiring driving intervention to slow down further.

What We Think So Far

Overall, this all-new 2020 Honda City is a big step forward over the outgoing model, especially when experienced in this range-topping RS with the innovative i-MMD powertrain. A lot will still depend on how cleverly Honda can position the car against other newly refreshed rivals, but we reckon it’s still the model to beat, even at its lower tier variants.

The RS, on the other hand, is a real showcase of how blurred vehicle segments have become thanks to it being packed to the gills with tech and convenience features, even performance and refinement, usually reserved for D-segment cars. We’ll definitely be arranging a back-to-back comparison as soon as we can.


10KM Radius Removed In Phase 1 States, Inter-State Travel Still Not Allowed

In follow up to the
updated SOPs that came into force yesterday
, the National Security Council has decided to remove the
previously enforced 10 kilometre radius
 travel bubble that applied to states currently in Phase 1 status according to the National Recovery Plan (NRP).

We are presuming that this widened travel net only applies to fully vaccinated individuals, but this has not been explicitly clarified at the moment. At the time of writing, states under Phase 1 include:
Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Putrajaya, Negri Sembilan, Melaka, Johor, and Kedah.

As you might've guessed, inter-state travel is still prohibited. Exceptions are made in certain cases such as long distance spouses, provided they are fully vaccinated. However, despite the 10km radius limit’s omission in the latest
SOPs under Phase 1
 for the majority of individuals, inter-district travel remains equally disallowed. Somehow.

Practically speaking, everyone knows that crossing districts is almost unavoidable in certain densely populated parts of the country - Kuala Lumpur and Selangor being a most prime example - so we have no idea how this is to be enforced, if at all.

As mentioned, though the updated guidelines for inter-district travel coincide with the new safety regulations, it has been known for some time that the majority of roadblocks and police presence are now concentrated around major highways and
not
 on major roads within Kuala Lumpur and the greater Klang Valley despite it (the 10km radius) still being part of the SOP at the time.

Also as previously hinted by the government, fully vaccinated individuals who have completed both doses will be
allowed more freedoms
, such as being allowed to dine-in at public restaurants and cafes, while outdoor non-contact activities such as running and cycling have also been given the green light.

Apart from this, motorists will be allowed to carry occupants up to the seating capacity of the vehicle. However, this only applies if the driver and all passengers are fully vaccinated.

Otherwise, if even one individual in the vehicle has yet to be vaccinated at all or has only completed one dose, only two people are allowed to be in the car at any given time with the exception of emergencies such as seeking medical attention. This also applies to taxis and ride sharing/e-hailing services.

For reference, the criteria for fully vaccinated individuals are:

having 14 days or more elapsed since being administered the 2nd dose for either Pfizer,
AstraZeneca
 and Sinovac vaccines or

28 days since the first and only dose for single-dose vaccines such as Johnson & Johnson and CanSino.

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Kia Optima GT Not Tested By ASEAN NCAP As Initially Claimed

With reference to a recent statement issued by ASEAN NCAP that the Kia Optima GT was never tested by their organisation, official distributor Naza Kia Malaysia has clarified that the 5-Star rating was in fact awarded by the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) and not as erroneously mentioned in Naza Kia Malaysia's press release as 'Asian NCAP'.
In an official statement issued by the company, Naza Kia Malaysia acknowledges the error made in its press materials and officially apologizes for the mistake.
ASEAN NCAP stated, "Recently, we have been receiving queries from the public regarding the status of Kia Optima, whether it has ever been tested by the New Car Assessment Program for Southeast Asian Countries or ASEAN NCAP. This was based on a series of articles published by several mainstream newspapers and also a few online automotive news portals several months ago. The articles stated that the said model received 5-Star ASEAN NCAP safety rating."
They added, "We regret to inform that ASEAN NCAP has never assessed Kia Optima GT. The only Kia cars tested by ASEAN NCAP was Kia Picanto (for Thailand and Malaysian market) and Kia Morning (the model shares similar platform as Picanto but for Indonesian market). We urge the public to always check ASEAN NCAP website for the correct rating."
The 2018 Kia Optima GT, first
launched locally
 in May, holds a 5-Star Euro NCAP rating, and qualifies for the American based Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick+ of 2018. However, models sold in Malaysia are right-hand drive, with different specifications, so direct comparison with NCAP scores of overseas models of any make should generally be avoided.
Results from the local market's NCAP organisation always takes higher precedence. Additionally, Euro NCAP prohibits the use of its name in marketing materials in markets outside of Europe.
The Kia Optima GT is offered here with 6 airbags, ABS, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Vehicle Stability Control (VSM), Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) as standard.


BYD will be launching the Myvi of EVs next year - meet the BYD Dolphin!

Will the BYD Dolphin be the first mass-market EV?

When BYD
launched their Atto 3
 EV in Malaysia a few days back, they brought along two of its brothers and gave us a preview of what products we can expect from them in the near future.

While the BYD Seal with its stunning coupe-ish looks and long 700km range, instantly gave the launch event some sophistication, it was the BYD Dolphin that pretty much stole the show.

Why did it steal the show? Well, the BYD Dolphin could potentially be the Perodua Myvi of the EV world, thanks to its fantastic value proposition.

The BYD Dolphin is a five-door hatchback almost the same size as a regular B-segment hatchback (around the same size as the Perodua Myvi). It's slightly smaller than the Atto 3, and in China, it is sold for 94k yuan (RM59k).

For that price, you would instantly assume that it has got to be some EV with lacklustre performance and low driving range, but on the contrary, the Dolphin can do 0-50km/h in 3.0 seconds, and if driven sensibly, give you 401 kilometres of travel.

The BYD Dolphin is powered by a single electric motor up front, capable of pushing out with 174 hp and 290 Nm of torque. The motor receives its power from the Blade lithium metal phosphate (LFP) battery, developed by BYD, with a capacity of 44.9 kWh.

If you don't trust BYD's battery technology, you should because BYD also
supplies this LFP Blade battery to Toyota
 for the bZ3 model. If Toyota, one of the world's best car makers trusts BYD's battery technology, then who are we to say anything else?

Here's the kicker though, the Dolphin we have just mentioned with the price tag of 94k yuan (RM59k), is actually one of the higher-spec models because in China, they offer other versions of the Dolphin, which are even cheaper.

The Dolphin variant under the one we mentioned comes with a lesser-powered motor featuring 94 hp/180 Nm. However it still comes with a 44.9 kWh battery, and 0-50km/h performance has only been reduced to 4 seconds.

There's also a base variant, which has the same power as the mid-level Dolphin, but its battery capacity has been reduced to 30.7 kWj which only gives it around 300km of range.

As for charging, the top and mid-level Dolphin can accept DC fast charging of up to 60kW, but the base spec can only accept up to 40kW. The fast DC charging can juice up the Dolphin from 30-80% in 30 minutes, while the Dolphin can be fully charged in six hours and 25 minutes through an AC charger.

To be honest, all variants of the BYD Dolphin sound good, but if BYD can manage to sell any of the variants below the RM100k mark, the BYD Dolphin might just be the true EV for the masses, where people might actually consider adopting an EV.

We all thought the
GWM Ora Good Cat
 might be the EV to be the first accepted by the mass-market, but at RM140k, it still feels too expensive.

We want to hear your opinion. Let us know in the comments.


Honda Malaysia Reveals HR-V Mugen Edition – RM119k, Limited To 1,020 Units

Honda Malaysia today introduced the HR-V Mugen Edition, featuring a range of cosmetic enhancements over the 1.8 V variant.
Limited to only 1,020 units, the HR-V Mugen Edition is priced at RM118,800 OTR without insurance.
It is the third Honda model to offer the Mugen package after the Civic Concept Mugen 2.0 limited edition which was introduced in 2006, and the Concept M models of the Civic and Jazz introduced in 2010.
The list of enhancements on the HR-V Mugen includes 9 items - a front under spoiler, rear under spoiler, side under spoiler, tailgate spoiler, unique Mugen decal, Mugen gearbox emblem, Mugen exterior emblem, Mugen front grille, and Mugen carpet mats.
Offered in two colour options – Dark Ruby Red Pearl and White Orchid Pearl (additional RM300) - the HR-V Mugen Edition’s body kit is only offered with the car and cannot be purchased separately by existing owners.
According to Honda Malaysia, the HR-V Mugen Edition is a result of customers' feedback requesting for sportier and stylish appearance to complement the practicality of the HR-V.
Since its launch in February 2015, more than 65,000 units have been registered as of January 2018.
The HR-V even emerged as the second best-selling model for Honda Malaysia in 2017, contributing to 17% out of the overall sales and remained in the lead position in the compact SUV segment.
Powering the compact SUV is a 1.8L i-VTEC SOHC engine paired with Honda's Earth Dreams CVT-type gearbox, producing 142 PS and 172 Nm of maximum torque.


The new McLaren 750S is better in every way, but looks the same as before

McLaren has revealed its latest pair of their Super Series cars, the 750S Coupé and 750S Spider. No points for guessing since it’s plainly obvious the duo are upgraded models spawned from the 720S and 720S Spider.

They are nothing much to look at if you’re playing ‘spot the difference’, but that isn't to say they are lacking in visual drama. The 720S on which they are almost identical to was a stunning piece of automotive aesthetic draped over a technical masterpiece.

McLaren themselves insists that these ‘new’ cars are composed of 30% new, mostly non-interchangeable components that has also led to a 30kg weight reduction over the equivalent 720S.

The main attraction of these new models is their engine output, with the M840T 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine delivering - as its namesake - 750 PS and 800 Nm of torque, transmitted through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission to the wheels, like the same Graziano unit used in the outgoing car.

McLaren notes that these power and torque figures are higher than those of its previous flagship model, the McLaren P1 (minus its hybrid component), giving it a higher specific output than any other car made by the British firm at any price.

The 720S was already mind-bending rapid and would be demonstrated to routinely demolish other AWD cars in a straight sprint despite it being rear-drive only. With 30PS added to its bi-turbo V8 arsenal thanks to lighter pistons, revised engine management, new exhaust system, and higher pressure turbos, this new car in coupe form is claimed to hit 100km/h in just 2.8 seconds.

More unbelievably, the 200km/h mark comes in just 7.2 seconds, quicker than most warm hatches can manage the century sprint.

They’ve also introduced a track brake upgrade option for the 750S, featuring 390mm carbon-ceramic brake discs and mono-bloc callipers that are 60% stronger and have four times the thermal conductivity, improving braking performance without adding to the disc’s size or weight, while reducing brake fade and rate of wear. However, the downside is that the track-spec discs take seven months to manufacture.

The 750S also features a new driver instrument display that moves with the steering column, and the powertrain and handling mode controls are situated on either side of the column to allow the driver to change modes without having to remove their hands from the steering wheel. Additionally, the 750S has the McLaren Control Launcher (MCL) system, which saves the driver’s preferred aero, handling, powertrain, and transmission settings, allowing for instant recall when the driver presses the MCL button.

For infotainment, the 750S includes a new Central Information Screen that shows camera feeds from the rearview and surround-view cameras, and Apple CarPlay provides phone pairing. Standard interior trim includes Alcantara upholstery, with two additional interior themes available for customisation.

Changes to the chassis of the 750S in comparison to the 720S include front springs that have been made 3% softer and the rear springs have been made 4% firmer. The bespoke valve stack's active and passive elements have also been updated to improve ride comfort, roll control, steering feedback, and cornering balance.

Additionally, the new spring and damper design in the 750S results in a weight reduction of 2 kg. The vehicle-lift system in the 750S is faster than in the 720S, taking only four seconds. The 750S has a wider front track width by 6mm and new suspension geometry, which improves front-end grip and agility. The car's electro-hydraulic steering assistance system has a new power assistance pump and a quicker steering ratio.

Of course, now begins the wait for McLaren Kuala Lumpur, the brand’s sole official dealership in Malaysia, to bring it onto our shores.


Top Gear's Website Removes All Three Hosts From Top Banner

Salt on a wound just plain hurts - this latest dab of saline is that the TopGear official website has taken down pictures of all three of its hosts from its very prominent top banner, signalling the point of no return for the show’s future (at least in its previous form).
Just a lone Stig sits atop the newly edited Top Gear website where once he was flanked by Richard Hammond, James May, and Jeremy Clarkson, indicating that the reports of the co-presenters refusing to continue the show without Clarkson were well founded. We’re not sure if The Stig misses his colleagues; some say he did shed a single tear when Clarkson’s firing was made official, but that it turned into vapour immediately after making contact with his skin. In case you were wondering, here's how the Top Gear site looked back in January 2015:
Jeremy Clarkson’s altercation
 with one of the show’s producers upon returning to a Yorkshire hotel after a day’s filming had wrapped has led to the presenter’s suspension and eventual sacking by the BBC. There has been word spreading around of offers to create a Top Gear 'sequel', with Netflix, ITV in early talks with Clarkson, Hammond, and May. Even hearsay about the trio taking over Top Gear US. All maybes at this point.
With each piece of sad news about (arguably) the world’s favourite motoring show, fans everywhere wince and sigh and just end up binge watching previous episodes. Well, at least one fan does.


Ford Is Giving Away Goodies Worth Up To RM15,000 This Festive Season

With the festive season just around the corner, Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC), the authorised distributor of Ford vehicles in Malaysia announced that it is giving its new customers a host of treats including cash vouchers and electrical goods worth almost RM15,000.
It is said that anyone who purchases selected Ford models at the brand’s showrooms nationwide between now and 31 July 2017 stand a chance to get the attractive gifts.
With every purchase, customers can also take this opportunity to bring home a limited edition, two-tier stainless steel food carrier to keep festive goodies fresh (while stocks last).
SDAC Managing Director Syed Ahmad Muzri Syed Faiz urged those who are looking out for a new cool ride this festive season to take advantage of these offers.

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Besides the gifts, visitors who stop by any Ford showroom during Ramadhan can also snap and print photos of themselves instantly and even personalize their very own Raya card for free.
New owners aside, there is something for existing customers too.
From 15 May till 30 June, Ford customers will be able to enjoy the following service promotions on selected Ford car models:
‘Parts Discounts’ of up to 20 percent on selected parts including wiper blade, brake and timing belt packages.
10 percent ‘Labour Discounts’ on lubricant, brake and timing belt packages with a complimentary 27-point Vehicle Health Check and gift.
Customers opting for the ‘Fuel Saver Package’ will enjoy a 10 percent discount on oil filters.
And besides all of the above, customers who spend a minimum of RM350 on service or parts replacement at authorized Ford service centres will receive a complimentary gift and Hari Raya packets while stocks last.
Last but not the least, Ford Ranger Roamers will be making their way around town to give away dates and Hari Raya packets to the public during the upcoming Ramadhan period.


More Economic Sectors Opening Up - Beginning September 17

More sectors under the National Recovery Plan (NRP) will be allowed to operate beginning Friday, 17 September.

As Malaysia continues to ease
SOPs
 for states under the various Phases, more sectors will be opening up for operations.

For States under
Phase 2
, 3 and 4:

face-to-face meetings are once again allowed for individuals who have been fully vaccinated

For States under Phase 1, these businesses will be allowed to operate:

Photography shops and services

Used items shops

Nurseries and florists

Souvenirs and crafts

Antique shops

Toy shops

Carpet shops

Creative content and equipment shops

Outdoor shops

Cosmetic shops

Tobacco shops, including those selling vape products and electronic cigarettes

As usual, all of the businesses listed above will have to follow
vaccination SOPs
.

Further to that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob also announced that the private sector in Phase 2 is now allowed to operate at 60% capacity provided 40% of their employees are fully vaccinated.

And that figure goes up higher as vaccination rates at companies also go up. 80% capacity if 60% of employees are fully vaccinated and full capacity if 80% of employees have been fully vaccinated.

Workers traveling to work in company-provided transportation can also operate at 100% capacity if all workers are fully vaccinated.

For States under Phase 2 and 3, you are now allowed to partake in sports or physical contact activities either indoor or outdoor.

Image credit: Liverpool FC Facebook

Football, volleyball and sports involving physical contact is now permitted for those who have been fully vaccinated.

Group physical activities such as aerobics or Zumba is allowed at a premise with 50% capacity or not more than 50 fully vaccinated participants.

There was also good news for gym owners and operators, as gyms in States under Phase 2 and 3 of the NRP will be allowed to operate as well. Gyms operators need to be fully vaccinated, and as expected gyms will only be open to those fully vaccinated.

Just before you visit your neighbourhood gym though, you might want to call and check if they're open as according to Deputy Youth and Sports Minister, Datuk Seri Ti Lian Ker there would be some additional SOPs for gyms and sports facility operators.

“Once the SOP has been gazetted and published, the operators are allowed to open,” he added.

Of course with all the movement liberties we are now afforded, it is also equally important to make sure our cars are running in their optimal condition. Just before you start driving more frequently, you might want to make sure you've undertaken all these basic checks we've listed for you
here
.

Cover image credit: The Star


Indonesian TVC Showcases Features Of The All-New Nissan Grand Livina

Following the launch of the all-new Nissan Grand Livina in Indonesia last month, a TV commercial (TVC) has popped up on Nissan Indonesia's Youtube channel that runs through the various features found in the car.
It's a good guess that our specifications, if we are to receive this car, will mirror that of Indonesia given most of our models sold here are similar in spec and nature, if not slightly higher specced. For those who aren't familiar,
the all-new Grand Livina
 is essentially a rebadged and reworked Mitsubishi Xpander, with the Renault-Nissan Alliance capitalizing on their partnership with the Japanese brand.
A total of five variants were made available from launch, all being powered by a 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine which produces 104 PS and 141 Nm, sent to the front wheels via a five speed manual or four speed automatic transmission. We'll likely get a more robust powertrain (Indonesia even gets a 1.0-litre Toyota Avanza) to suit the tastes of our market.


Volkswagen Debuts All-New Modular Electric Drive Matrix (MEB) Platform

At the launch of the “Electric For All” campaign, Volkswagen has showcased its brand new Modular Electric Drive Matrix (MEB) platform.
The first model to be built on the new platform will be the Volkswagen ID.
As its name suggests, the new platform is designed as a modular platform for all future electric-powered Volkswagen models. No, the MEB platform is not adapted from the MQB platform, but designed from the start for electric drive. Brand Board Member for E-Mobility Thomas Ulbrich said, “Our Modular Transverse Toolkit already proved Volkswagen is one of the most successful platform developers in the auto industry. Now, we’re transferring this know-how and this strategy to the electric age. By the end of 2022, four Group brands will be ramping up 27 MEB models worldwide, ranging from compact cars to the lifestyle Bulli. That is something quite unique.”
Additionally, the MED platform’s modularity will allow Volkswagen to install different sizes of battery with ease. Speaking of battery, the MEB platform sees the battery being placed in the floorpan, allowing for a lower centre of gravity whilst freeing up space in the cabin.
Another highlight of the MEB platform is quick charging, as all models in the upcoming ID range will receive this feature. Volkswagen says that the battery can be charged up to 80 percent in just 30 minutes, achieved when used in conjunction with the necessary quick charger. Volkswagen also showcased a design prototype of its new “Volks-Wallbox”, designed to be an affordable and convenient home charging system.
To build the ID, Volkswagen will be utilizing a number of its production facilities, including the plants in Braunschweig, Salzgitter, and Kassel. Volkswagen will be investing 1.3 million Euros out of a total 6 billion Euro budgeted for e-mobility at these sites.
Volkswagen remains optimistic with its EV plans, as the company aims to shift 150,000 EVs, including 100,000 ID models by 2020. By 2022, Ulbrich added, “Four Group brands will be ramping up 27 MEB models worldwide, ranging from compact cars to the lifestyle Bulli. That is something quite unique.”


2023 Toyota GR86 launched: Not bargain at RM295k but you're not getting more RWD fun in a tighter package

Alongside the other cars
making their debut at Toyota Malaysia’s Gazoo Racing Festival, the GR86 has finally made landfall in Malaysia with prices starting from RM295,000.

The second-generation of the
brand’s Subaru co-developed and manufactured
 coupe following the 2012 introduction of the GT86, this all-new version furthers the concept of a lithe RWD Japanese two-door to more intense levels.

2023 Toyota GR86 - 2.4L - 6-speed manual: RM295,000

2023 Toyota GR86 - 2.4L - 6-speed automatic: RM305,000

You can tell it’s proportionately very similar to its predecessor, but the biggest alteration here is the use of a gutsier 2.4-litre naturally aspirated Boxer 4-cylinder engine outputting 237PS at 7,000rpm and 250Nm of torque at 3,700rpm.

Compared to the previous-gen 86, the new model produces an extra 35hp and 45Nm). The result is a 0-100km/h run of 6.3 seconds - a full 1.1 seconds faster compared to the outgoing GT86 that this 'new' GR86 is replacing.

For those who are keen-eyed, you would have noticed that the new 86 also features aerodynamic front and side air ducts, which Toyota claims are based on their learnings from their Gazoo Racing programmes and will help aid handling and stability of the GR86. If you haven't caught it by now, GR stands for Gazoo Racing bringing it in line with other performance-oriented Toyotas such as the GR Supra and Yaris.

The car's dimensions are practically the same as its predecessor with very familiar styling cues, but it has shed five kilograms from its weight, thanks to the use of aluminium on the roof and body panels. Toyota has also come out and said that the GR86's torsional rigidity had been increased by around 50 percent, resulting in even sharper steering and handling.

There’s the 6-speed manual transmission, which will definitely be the crowd favourite option, but supplemented by a 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters (an extra RM10,000). To cap things off its 18-inch wheels are fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport tyres as standard.

Can't wait to get an extended drive in one!


The Aston Martin Vulcan Is 800 HP Of Track-Only Madness

In recent weeks, various car makers have been releasing track-only supercars with Ferrari kicking things off by
introducing its FXX K
. And not too long ago, McLaren themselves
showed the world its P1 GTR
. Enter the brand new 800 horsepower
Aston Martin
 Vulcan, which, at least for us, has the best name among the lot.
Like its two neighbours, this will be a limited-run model, with just 24 examples being made and each of them will be powered by Aston Martin’s 7.0-litre V12 paired to a Xtrac six-speed sequential shift gearbox. The naturally-aspirated powerplant sends all of its 800 hp to the rear’s 345/30 x 19 wheels wrapped in Michelin race specification tyres with no hybrid system in sight.
All that power propels a lightweight carbon fibre monocoque and body, allowing for a greater power-to-weight ratio than Aston Martin’s own GTE cars which compete in the FIA’s annual World Endurance Championship.
Together with Aston Martin’s body engineering and manufacturing partner Multimatic, other features on the Vulcan include integral limited-slip differential, magnesium torque tube with carbon fibre propeller shaft and Brembo racing calipers acting on carbon ceramic racing disc brakes measuring 380mm in diameter at the front and 360mm at the rear.
Other track handling bits include pushrod suspension with adjustable dampers and anti-roll bars at the front and rear, driver-adjustable anti-lock braking, and variable traction control.
It is also interesting to note that the Vulcan doesn’t resemble any production car from Aston Martin, unlike the P1 GTR and FXX K. Which explains the bonkers styling both inside and out.
The company will be selling just 24 examples of the Vulcan for an undisclosed amount of money (we’re guessing a lot) to those interested, professional driver or not. According to Aston Martin, “Owners will be offered the opportunity to take part in an extensive and detailed programme of intensive track driver training.”
That training involves time in a simulator and hands-on practical training as well for the owners to build their skills gradually until they take the wheel of the Vulcan. They will start out with a Aston Martin V12 Vantage S, then proceed to a Aston Martin One-77. Next up, the Aston Martin Vantage GT4 racer before taking the leap into the Vulcan. If that’s too confusing, think of it like moving up the ranks of Nando’s Peri Peri sauces from mild to extra hot.
The Aston Martin Vulcan will make its world debut at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show.


BMW X1 and X4 receive EEV Incentives, now priced from RM 228,800 and RM 396,800 respectively

Energy Efficient Vehicle incentives are a great way for automotive manufacturers to reduce their retail prices- a benefit they can pass on to their consumer. With the new
locally-assembled X1 and X4
, both of these models now qualify for a customized variant of the incentive.
For the
X1
, local assembly also means the introduction of a diesel variant. As with the diesel variant of its predecessor, this diesel model is also equipped with the xDrive all-wheel drive system. The efficiency of both this diesel motor and its petrol sister are what has led to the granting of the incentive by the government.
The locally assembled
X1 sDrive20i
 comes with a 6.5-inch display for the iDrive system, complete with BMW Navigation. The xDrive20d model sports a larger 8.8-inch unit, with split-screen functions and Navigation Plus that boasts a heads up display feature. The Parking Assistant feature and BMW ConnectedDrive Services & Apps are also standard across the range.
While the
X4
 doesn’t have any new additions to the range, it also benefits from the local assembly treatment in that there is more equipment that comes as standard. Still powered by the TwinPowerTurbo 2.0-litre motor, the singular variant of the X4 now comes with extra driver assistance features (Lane Departure Warning, Person Warning, Approach Control Warning), as well as BMW ConnectedDrive Services & Apps.
With the EEV incentive, the prices for the X1 and X4 (on the road, without insurance, with BMW Group Malaysia’s latest 5 Years Unlimited Mileage Warranty, Free Scheduled Service Program and BMW Tyre Warranty Program) are as follows:
Model

Peninsular Malaysia
East Malaysia
Current Retail Price
EEV Incentive Retail Price
Current Retail Price
EEV Incentive Retail Price
X1 sDrive20i
(Sport Line)
RM 279,800.00
RM 228,800.00
RM 282,914.40
RM 231,914.40
X1 xDrive20d
(X Line)

RM 255,800.00

RM 258,914.90
Sarawak
RM 261,998.20
Sabah
X4 xDrive28i
RM 465,800.00
RM 396,800.00
RM 468,914.40
RM 399,914.60
These models will be on display during the BMW xDrive Xperience 2016, which will be on tour across the country towards the end of May 2016. In conjunction with the program, BMW Premium Selection Showrooms will be offering special trade-in programs for pre-owned BMW X models. The Xperience schedule is as follows:
21st May – 22nd May 2016
Central
East
Auto Bavaria, Glenmarie
Millennium Welt, Kuantan
Ingress Auto, Damansara

Quill Automobiles, Petaling Jaya
Wearnes Autohaus, Segambut
Wheelcorp Premium, Setia Alam
Tian Siang Premium Auto, Ipoh

28th May – 29th May 2016
North
South
Auto Bavaria, Penang
Auto Bavaria, Johor Bharu
Lee Motors Auto Care, Alor Setar
Millennium Welt, Seremban
Tian Siang Premium Auto, Butterworth
Millennium Welt, Batu Pahat
Raza Premium Auto, Kota Bharu
Seong Hoe Premium Motors, Melaka

Wearnes Autohaus, Tebrau
Regas Premium Auto, Kuching
FM Autohaus, Kota Kinabalu

Venues
Dates
Auto Bavaria, Glenmarie
21st – 22nd May 2016
Auto Selection, Kuala Lumpur
Quill Automobiles, Petaling Jaya
Ingress Auto, Damansara
Wheelcorp Premium, Setia Alam
Tian Siang Premium Auto, Ipoh
28th – 29th May 2016


Five Reasons Why Mercedes-Benz Is Number One

Locally and abroad, 2016 was a
record-breaking year for BMW
. The Munich-based firm’s boasted global sales exceeding two million vehicles; with the Malaysian subsidiary similarly successful in managing to shift nearly 11,000 cars.
These numbers were an entirely appropriate achievement to mark the company’s centennial celebrations but for one small detail – they were somehow
overtaken by Mercedes-Benz
 on the sales charts. Mercedes-Benz somehow managed to
outgrow and overtake its fiercest rival
 that not only had a head start but was actually growing from strength to strength. The significance of this achievement cannot be understated.
The three-pointed star is currently in irresistible form, enjoying a strong momentum carried by a wave of well-received new products that not only served to restore confidence in existing customers but successfully winning over newer and younger ones as well.
Success did not come overnight for Mercedes-Benz. The brand’s return to the summit of the premium automotive pyramid is the result of a strong product line-up allied with comprehensive ground work laid on for years whilst watching the likes of BMW and Audi steal Stuttgart’s thunder in the process.
Now, however, Mercedes-Benz is back on top, and here’s why:
1.
Strong Sales Network –
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s existence as a corporate entity goes only as far back as 2004, but the brand’s presence in the country is decades-old and strongly entrenched, thanks to the efforts of former distributor
Cycle & Carriage
. Recent years have seen the network strengthened both in quantity and quality. New dealers are welcomed into the fold, whilst existing ones are raised to new standards of service with boosted capacities. The idea was that before its anticipated growth, Mercedes-Benz wanted to ensure it had the capability to deliver service levels commensurate with its brand identity.
2. Strong Core Products –
Once renowned for making luxury cars of immaculate quality, Mercedes-Benz lost a bit of that plot during its ill-fated alliance with Chrysler which the company took a full decade to recover from. The seeds of today’s growth was first sown by the superlative W222 S-Class in 2013 and quickly followed by the equally excellent
W205 C-Class
 the following year. The
W213 E-Class
 that came last year completed a full renewal of Mercedes-Benz’s three core offerings. All three models wiped the floor clean at the
2016 ASEAN Car of the Year Awards
 by winning in each of the respective categories that they competed in.
3. Attractive Compact Cars –
 We have our reservations against Mercedes-Benz’s MFA-based compact cars. Their interior packaging is compromised and ride quality is generally firm across the board, but there is no denying that they look good and exude plenty of showroom appeal. If there is one thing that the likes of the
A-Class
,
CLA
, and
GLA
 succeeded, is that they made many young people fans of Mercedes-Benz.
4. Dream Cars
 – Besides strengthening its core offerings, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia also has an unprecedentedly wide range of dream cars including the various Coupes and Cabriolets plus an extremely complete portfolio of vehicles from Mercedes-AMG. These cars are not expected to sell in numbers, but they add desirability by association to the core models. More is on the way; 2017 is the 50
th
 anniversary of AMG – Mercedes-Benz will be marking the occasion, so stay tuned for that.
5. Local Assembly –
Since setting up shop in 2004, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has invested huge sums in its local production facilities based in
DRB-Hicom’s Pekan plant
. Besides providing employment for Malaysians, the Pekan plant also facilitates transfer of technology from Stuttgart to the benefit of our workforce. After all, how many people can claim to have the knowledge of putting together an S400 Hybrid? The Pekan plant is more than a screwdriver operation – local operators are actually responsible for welding together the vehicle’s monocoque body, painting it, and attaching all major components. Suppliers benefit too, as certain parts are outsourced to local companies that are audited to comply with Daimler AG’s most stringent standards.
What’s to come in 2017?
Recently, we learned from Mr Mark Raine himself, the all-action Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Mercedes-Benz Malaysia that the company’s product offensive is set to continue full force in 2017 with no fewer than 10 launches in the pipeline, first of them being
locally-assembled variants of the W213 E-Class
 expected within this quarter. Celebration of the AMG division’s golden anniversary is expected to be another highlight.
The success of 2016 has emboldened Mercedes, and the company is eager to press home its advantage for this coming year. The chips are stacked in its favour and the product team still has many aces left to play against rivals that will undoubtedly be strengthening their own hands for stiffer competition this coming year.


Fuel Price Update: May 2017 Week 2

From tomorrow till next Wednesday (17 May), motorists in Malaysia can enjoy lower fuel prices.
New prices below:

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RON95 - RM2.01 (down 10 sen from RM2.11)
RON97 - RM2.29 (down 10 sen from RM2.39)
Diesel - RM1.95 (down 13 sen from RM2.08)
Via:
KPDNKK