iCarData: The Best Time To Buy An (C7) Audi A6 1.8TFSI

When compared to the seminal BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, the Audi A6 has had a much younger lineage – having been around only since the mid-90s, as compared to the four-decade history of the 5 Series and the E-Class, whose roots stretch back to the ‘Ponton’ models of the mid-50s.

Some of this has to do with Audi renaming their A6 from the 100/200 models – which stretch back another decade or so. However, despite its relative infancy – the A6 has gone from outlier to mainstream challenger, thanks to its brilliant design, technological advancement, safety standards, and thanks to quattro GMBH (Audi’s skunkworks racing outfit) – a slew of high-performance RS models that command a worldwide following.

Also as opposed to Mercedes and BMW, Audi has a super-easy way of naming their model generations – starting with one alphabet, and ending with a number. The alphanumeric codes starting with the ‘B’ are for the smaller A4, the A6 gets a ‘C’… etc. Starting with the ‘C1’ from the late 60s, the current 2020 Audi A6 is codenamed the ‘C8’.

In this report, we will be looking at the C7 Audi A6, a generation that has enjoyed relatively good reception here in Malaysia. Alongside its contemporary rivals, the
(F10) BMW 5 Series
 and
(W212) Mercedes-Benz E-Class
 (which we covered recently) – the Audi A6 would be the last of this notable trio of German gentleman cruisers – which has also come to the end of its product lifecycle with the hushed introduction of the ‘C8’ successor in Q2 of 2019.

The grapevine whispers of more variants of the C8 Audi A6 entering the Malaysian market in the near future, but for now, let's take a look at how the A6 has fared in terms of resale value on the used car market.

Our reports utilise iCarData. Our in-house developed
iCarData
, collates data from thousands of used vehicle deals that have been listed on Carlist.my throughout the years. Hence, by filtering our search for listings of a particular model throughout the measured timeframe, we are able to track the relative rates of depreciation of a vehicle as they were featured (in period).

Overview

The C7-generation A6 was first introduced in Malaysia in 2011. Initially available as the 3.0 TFSI quattro guise – priced at RM515,000 – it went up against the F10 BMW 535i in terms of power and equipment. The turbocharged 3.0 V6 delivered 300hp and 440Nm, sending power to all four-wheels (Quattro AWD) through a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic.

However, the biggest jump in the A6’s popularity came with the introduction of the A6 2.0 TFSI Hybrid – which took advantage of excise and import duty exemptions offered by the government and was priced at just RM280k – undercutting by a wide margin all its rivals at the time. The 2.0-litre mild-hybrid powertrain produced a combined 245hp and 480Nm. The electric motor interfaced with an 8-speed automatic gearbox. Around 47 percent of the total 4,000 A6 Hybrids built by Audi were sold in Malaysia, proving that the market was there for the A6 if it was priced right.

Audi dropped the A6 Hybrid in 2014, and the facelift model –
launched here in 2015
 – was offered here in two guises: the (333hp/440Nm) 3.0-litre TFSI Quattro, and the 1.8-litre TFSI with outputs of 190hp and 320Nm of torque. In both cases, power was sent to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic. Prices range between RM325k for the 1.8 TFSI, to approximately RM500k for the 3.0 TFSI.

For this report we will be looking at the 1.8-litre TFSI variant, given its lower price range, it was the volume seller of the C7 A6 range.

Technical specification of the 2015 (C7) Audi A6 Facelift 1.8L TFSI

Engine: 1.8-litre turbocharged, inline-four, Petrol

Power: 190 hp @ 4,200 rpm

Torque: 320 Nm @ 1,400 rpm

Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic, front-wheel drive

Safety: Six airbags, ABS with EBD, Brake Assist, Stability Control

Origin: Fully-Imported from Germany.

Price: RM324,900 – Aug 2015 launch (OTR without insurance)

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

Vehicle variant: 2015 Audi (C7-4g Facelift) A6 1.8 TFSI STronic, delivered between Aug and Dec 2015.

Depreciation is calculated using the original list price.

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

Depreciation for other variants may differ, in particular, the 2013 Audi A6 Hybrid variant, which given its complexity, typically does not hold its prices as well as the petrol-powered variants.

Based on iCarData, here's the summarized data for depreciation:

And the graphical analysis below:

Blue line: Average selling price (RM) by year

Grey line: Cumulative depreciation (RM) by year

Orange line: Retained value percentage by year

Conclusion

At first glance, it may seem that the value retention of the Audi A6 falls into a free fall quite literally as soon as the car rolls out the showroom doors. On the contrary, when compared to the likes of the (F10) BMW 5 Series, the percentages of depreciation year on year, are quite similar.

After 5 years, the A6 loses around 57 percent of its original value, pretty much identical to the 5 Series, and mildly better than the Mercedes E-Class.

The A6's biggest advantage is that it isn't as ubiquitous as the Merc and BMW, hence in the matrix of supply versus demand - it manages to hold onto its value rather organically throughout the measured 5 years.

However, much like its two German rivals, the breakeven point for retained value versus cumulative depreciation comes at around 4 years. The depreciation curve is also void of major drops in value which can be caused by market sway or competitor model introductions.

With that said, we can safely infer that if sellers hope to retain more than half of their initial investment, they should choose to sell their vehicles just as they pass the four-year mark. However, if the retained value is not the primary requirement, they should keep their car for the duration of the warranty period and enjoy their car and the peace of mind that offers.

Buyers, on the other hand, should ideally snap up an A6 at half its value after just five years, which offers them a relatively new car, good financing options, and with options for aftermarket warranty options at their disposal.

Of course, buyers are advised to do their homework and get a thorough inspection done prior to purchase.

For some great deals on the (C7) Audi A6, click
here
.

If you're looking to sell your Audi A6, we have two solutions for you too. List in on carlist.my or better still use
Carlist Bid
 where we remove all the hassle of selling your car for you as you get searching for your next upgrade.

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


Cara Beli/Bida Nombor Plat Kustom

Semenjak sistem JPJeBid diperkenalkan pada 2019, proses pembidaan
nombor pendaftaran kenderaan
 kini menjadi lebih pantas dan mudah.

Untuk mereka yang kali pertama ingin mendapatkan nombor pendaftaran yang cantik, proses mendapatkan nombor pendaftaran ini dilakukan secara bidaan. Dengan sistem JPJeBid, harga bidaan akan dipaparkan dan nombor itu boleh dibida berkali-kali sehingga tarikh bidaan tutup.

*Kredit foto: Sinar Harian

Setiap bidaan yang dibuat tidak boleh dibayar secara tunai, tetapi hanya diterima menggunakan kad kredit atau debit. Jika bidaan anda terpilih sebagai pemenang, barulah nilai tersebut akan ditolak dari akaun anda. Walau bagaimanapun, hanya pengguna yang sudah berdaftar di portal MySIKAP sahaja yang boleh menggunakan sistem JPJeBid.

Pendaftaran MySIKAP boleh dilakukan di mana-mana kaunter pejabat
JPJ
 berhampiran. Rujuk infografik di bawah untuk mengetahui cara-cara mendaftar ID di MySIKAP.

Setelah rekod anda diterima di dalam portal MySIKAP, barulah anda boleh mendaftar diri di JPJeBid. Rujuk proses pendaftaran ID di JPJeBid dengan lebih lanjut di bawah.

Cara Daftar JPJeBid

1. Pendaftaran secara online di:
https://jpjebid.jpj.gov.my/ebid/

2. Dokumen yang diperlukan mengikut kategori:

Individu: Satu salinan kad pengenalan/sijil kelahiran/resit pengenalan sementara yang masih sah

Perniagaan pemilik tunggal atau perkongsian:

Satu salinan Sijil Pendaftaran Perniagaan – Borang D (nama syarikat,maklumat dan maklumat pemilik); atau

Satu salinan Lesen Perniagaan (Sabah dan Sarawak sahaja)

Surat wakil syarikat sekiranya wakil syarikat yang hadir untuk membuat pendaftaran.

Syarikat Sdn. Bhd:

Surat wakil syarikat sekiranya wakil syarikat yang hadir untuk membuat pendaftaran.

Satu salinan Borang 9 atau Borang 13 dan Borang 49 atau Borang Seksyen 58.

Selepas berjaya mendaftar, semak e-mel untuk pengesahan pendaftaran, dan klik pautan yang diberikan.

Log masuk portal JPJeBid menggunakan ID dan kata laluan yang telah ditetapkan.

Proses Bidaan:

Pengguna berdaftar boleh membida nombor plat kegemaran melalui portal JPJeBid atau aplikasi mudah alih JPJeBid.

Carian nombor pendaftaran kenderaan boleh dibuat berdasarkan:

Siri Negeri

Siri Istimewa

Klik pada nombor pendaftaran yang ingin dibida, kemudian klik butang Bida.

Mulakan bidaan dengan memasukkan amaun yang dikehendaki. Caj perkhidmatan sebanyak RM10 dikenakan.

Amaun bidaan pertama mestilah sama atau melebihi harga minimum yang ditetapkan mengikut kategori nombor plat.

Peningkatan bidaan minimum adalah sebanyak 5% daripada amaun harga minimum dan tiada had dikenakan untuk peningkatan maksimum.

Sahkan amaun dan transaksi akan diteruskan ke halaman pembayaran bank. Masukkan maklumat yang diperlukan untuk membuat pembayaran.

Pengesahan akan diberikan sama ada pembayaran berjaya atau gagal.

Jika bidaan berjaya, amaun bidaan akan ditolak dari kad kredit/ kad debit pembida dengan serta-merta.

Jika bidaan gagal, pembatalan transaksi oleh pihak bank akan dilakukan dan amaun akan dikreditkan semula ke kad kredit atau kad debit pembida. Tiada caj yang akan dikenakan.

Kategori Nombor Pendaftaran Kenderaan:

Untuk membida, pembida perlu membayar harga minimum atau lebih mengikut kategori nombor pendaftaran kenderaan yang dibida buat kali pertama. Berikut merupakan kategori nombor plat dan harga minimum yang perlu dibayar:

Nombor Popular: angka popular seperti 404, 200, 420, 69, 2020 dan sebagainya. Harga minimum nombor popular bermula pada harga RM800.

Nombor Menarik: angka menarik seperti 11, 44, 666, 555, 9999 dan sebagainya. Harga minimum nombor popular bermula pada harga RM3,000.

Nombor Bernilai Utama: angka tunggal seperti 1 hingga 10 Harga. Harga minimum nombor utama bermula pada harga RM20,000.

Nombor Semasa: nombor pendaftaran terkini. Bidaan dibuka pada harga minimum RM300.

Daftar Nombor Pendaftaran Kenderaan Baharu

Jika bidaan terpilih sebagai pemenang, pemenang atau wakil perlu hadir ke JPJ untuk mendaftar nombor tersebut dengan membawa dokumen seperti:

Cetakan E-mel Surat Keputusan Berjaya Bidaan

Salinan Kad Pengenalan/Salinan Identiti Pengenalan Syarikat

Tempoh akhir bagi mendaftar nombor kenderaan yang dimenangi adalah 12 bulan dari tarikh pengeluaran Surat Tawaran. Nombor kenderaan yang dimenangi boleh ditukar nama, namun hanya terbuka kepada keluarga terdekat sahaja iaitu ibu/bapa/suami/isteri/ adik beradik/anak. Dokumen tambahan diperlukan seperti sijil kelahiran, sijil nikah dan dokumen lain yang berkaitan ketika membuat pendaftaran kenderaan. Pertukaran nama melibatkan Syarikat/ Pertubuhan/ Koperasi tidak dibenarkan.

Diharapkan perkongsian ringkas ini sedikit sebanyak dapat membantu anda dalam mendapatkan nombor pendaftaran kenderaan yang anda impikan.


First Photos Of The All-New BMW Z4 Leaked

Ah, you've gotta love spy photos and leaked images. While not as spectacular as a full-on world premiere, they give fans a first proper look at the car they've been pining over for the preceding few months or years.
The Supra/Z4 is one of the most hotly discussed cars on the market right now, and the good folks
over at Jalopnik uncovered these leaked images from Belgium
. This particular set is of the BMW Z4, so you can expect some styling differences between this and the Supra.
The car looks stunning, although the proportions are a little peculiar - especially being a joint development between Toyota and BMW. The overhangs aren't quite as short as we're used to seeing on either BMW or Toyota models, but the roadster form is well and truly alive.
We're seeing all-new switchgear and displays. The instrument cluster is completely different, although this photo looks more like a rendering than a final product. Whether this will carry on to production remains to be seen.
The gear shifter is similar in design and nature to that of the latest BMW models, with the wider layout than before for more buttons that are easily accessible. Will Toyota keep this for their Supra? It's also a difficult question to answer as monostatic shifters aren't common for Toyota.
We can hardly wait for the official global debut of this car, and while there may be less of an outright surprise, we can't exactly say that we haven't been treated to hundreds of different angles of one of the most anticipated cars in this half decade.


Every Little Bit Helps: Salute Abang Delivery

Apart from family members at home, the only other faces we see at the moment are of those who deliver food to our houses. These food delivery abangs are a saving grace because if it weren't for them, we wouldn't be able to eat a lot of of the tasty food that we have come to like and love.

In light of this, the whole of Malaysia considers them to as part of the frontline army, and in times like these, Malaysians have come out to show what we do best - to show kindness and appreciation where it is due.

So here's to our heros on two wheels.

Here are a couple that we picked up from Twitter showing netizens appreciating our abang delivery in their own ways. One conveyed his appreciation by giving them a lovely thank you note, while the other showed some love by leaving them a tip.

While times are hard for all businesses, some have dug deep and still manage to offer some sort of relief for the overworked food delivery folk. For example, our favourite bubble tea seller, Chatime has provided 5,000 free drinks, while a Thai food restaurant in Johor, Miss Siam is offering Thai Milk Tea to all riders who go through there.

The government is also doing their best to help Malaysians. While most of their efforts have gone into stabilising the economy as well as giving their full support to frontliners at all medical practices, they have not forgotten the little guy. They are currently offering free masks and hand sanitisers to all food delivery personnel.

If we the people who are stuck at home can give any type of support to these delivery folk, we urge you to please do so. Be kind, ask them how they are, leave them a tip, offer them a mask if you have spares.

Remember, every little helps!


Limited Number of Renault Zoe Electric Cars Available for Private Ownership

Previously, the only way to sample Renault’s ‘Zero-Emission’ electric vehicle (EV) the ZOE was through the
COMOS ride sharing service
 available at certain locations within the urban-scapes of Klang Valley.
Now though, a limited number of Renault Zoes are up for private ownership – made available through Renault’s Malaysian franchise holder TC Euro Cars (TCEC).
CEO of TC Euro Cars Sdn Bhd, Kuan Kim Luen added; “ZOE is the core of the Renault Zero Emissions range. In addition to its compact size and attractive styling, it showcases Renault’s technological excellence when it comes to electric vehicles. ZOE also heralds the beginning of a new era of electric mobility for all and confirms Renault’s commitment to electric vehicles.”
The Renault Zoe is equipped with a rotor-coil synchronous electric motor to deliver maximum power of 87bhp from 3,000 to 11,300 rpm and peak torque of 220Nm from as low as 250 rpm. Power is sent through an automatic gearbox.
The Zoe’s draws power from a 22kWh lithium-ion battery which at full-charge allows for a 210km range based on the 'NEDC' cycle. A full charge ranges from four hours on a 7kW fast charger to nine hours on a regular 3.6kW charger. A 3.6 kWh Delta wall-mounted charger is included with the purchase of the Renault ZOE.
Energy recuperation duties are performed by the Zoe’s new-generation regenerative braking system, while efficient use of battery juice is further enhanced with the Zoe’s innovative heating and cooling system for occupants which works like a reverse-cycle air-conditioning unit that consumes very little electricity.
Enjoying EV ownership with the Zoe need not come with drawbacks of familiar creature comforts. On hand is Renault’s familiar R-Link touchscreen display with USB and hands-free Bluetooth connectivity. On the safety front, six-airbags, ABS with EBD and Electronic Stability Control come as standard.
Limited units of the fully-imported Renault ZOE are available for sale in Malaysia to the public at RM145,888, on-the-road inclusive of GST sans insurance for private individual registration in Peninsular Malaysia. The ZOE is only available in Glacier White.
The warranty schemes that apply to privately registered Renault Zoes are as follows:
Three-year or 100,000km mileage (whichever comes first) manufacturer warranty.
Five-year or 100,000km (whichever comes first) electrical powertrain warranty.
Five-year warranty or 100,000km (whichever comes first) traction battery warranty.


Chery Hammering In Hard That They Will Back With Locally Built Cars

Chery reiterates once again that they are working closely with local partners to establish CKD operations in Malaysia.

The current ongoing Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS), which runs from 11-21 August, saw Chery officially opening its order books for the Tiggo 7 Pro and Tiggo 8 Pro in Indonesia,

While this bit of news might not initially seem relatively relevant to us, we just can't help but notice that in its press release, they ended it with words that show they are
committed to the Malaysian market.

After describing the features of the Indonesian Tiggo 7 Pro and Tiggo 8 Pro, Chery ended the press release by saying that the two cars are among the Chery models planned for launch in Malaysia.

What's particularly interesting is that they are not just hammering it into our heads that they will be back in Malaysia but also
establishing CKD operations in Malaysia
.

"Chery is continuing to work closely with local partners towards establishing assembly operations in Malaysia, as well as towards its brand renewal, which will see the development of a new nationwide sales and after-sales network to best serve Malaysians".

Sources have indicated that the new Chery models will be launched sometime in the second half of 2023, as this will give Chery ample time to seal the deal with its local partners to establish its CKD operations.

For those who are unfamiliar with the Tiggo 7 Pro and Tiggo 8 Pro, they are two of the largest
members of the SUV-based Tiggo Pro Family
.

The flagship Tiggo 8 Pro is a premium seven-seater SUV with a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine (197PS/290Nm) and 12 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), while the Tiggo 7 Pro is the edgier and more compact sibling, made for urbanites.

There's no word on its official Malaysian distributor yet, but that will probably come to light soon. The only point of reference now regarding its brand presence here in Malaysia is its
official Facebook
 page.


Lexus Malaysia Launches New IS 200t Variant – From RM297,800

Lexus Malaysia has added a new model to the IS range – the IS 200t, replacing the previous IS 250 variant. Prices start from RM297,800 excluding insurance for the IS 200t Premium.
You might have also noticed that the eye-popping price is much higher than the
RM278,400 pre-order price
 announced in August. As you might have already expected, you can blame our falling Ringgit for it.
Yesterday, UMW Toyota has announced that starting January 2016,
prices of all Toyota and Lexus models will be raised by between 4 to 16 percent
, but this applies only to existing models.
For new models like the IS 200t, clearly the prices announced at its launch timing needs to take into consideration of the current forex scenario.
Prices for all variants of the Lexus IS are as below:
Lexus IS 200t Premium – RM297,800
Lexus IS 200t Luxury – RM349,900
Lexus IS 200t F Sport – RM384,900
Lexus IS 300h – RM452,100
The new IS 200t is merely a new variant to replace the IS 250. It is a not a facelift or a mid-lifecycle update model. Thus, the main difference between the IS 200t and the outgoing IS 250 is only its engine – a 2.0-litre turbocharged unit that’s also shared with the Lexus NX 200t.
All other major features remain unchanged. So there are still 10 airbags as standard. Luxury, F Sport and hybrid variants get extras like Blind Spot Monitor(BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) and a 7-inch EMV screen with reverse camera and navigation system.
Other differences between Premium and higher range variants include auto dimming rear view mirror, memory function for the power-operated driver’s seat, and different interior trim materials.


2021 Toyota Yaris Open For Booking - From RM 70,940.00

With all the news of the
GR Yaris
 making its way to Malaysian shores, let us not forget our humble ASEAN model aimed squarely at the mass market.

UMW Toyota in a spree of launches and information yesterday also confirmed details of the new
Yaris
 - the entry-level hatchback is now open for booking and details have been provided. You can get it in three colours: Red Mica Metallic, Silver Metallic, and Platinum White Pearl.

UMW Toyota revealed last night that the price for the
Yaris
 1.5J is RM 70,940 while the mid-range Yaris 1.5E will go for RM 80,380 and the top-spec Yaris 1.5G goes for RM 84,808.

Besides the refreshed look,  the new
Yaris
 has all the features that we've come to expect from Toyota's products - at least on their top-spec 1.5G variants. Toyota Safety Sense with Pre-collision System (PCS) and Lane Departure Alert (LDA) are present, as well as other items like automatic air-conditioning, the Optitron Meter with Multi-information Display, LED headlamps, an Electrochromic Rear-View Mirror, a 3D Panoramic View Monitor, Blind Sport Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and even a Front Digital Video Recorder.

On the connectivity and entertainment side of things, you'll get an Apple CarPlay head unit, also with Android Auto-ready connectivity when the service is available in Malaysia officially. Wireless charging and a Vehicle Telematics System also add a level of value to the product that we rarely see in this category.

You can even buy it on a nine-year finance plan, starting at just RM 498 a month with an additional RM 59 a month for the Toyota Service Savers package. After your first three years, that installment amount increases slightly, and the last three years give you the option to trade up for another brand new Toyota.


How to get your hands on the Lamborghini Sian FKP 37?

The Lamborghini Sian by Lego Technic is 3700 pieces of patience and engineering, it is also the closest many of us will come to understanding the inner workings of a Lamborghini up close and personal.

According to Lego Senior Designer and Lead Designer of the Lego Lamborghini Sian, Aurelien Rouffiange, a project of developing a sports car into a Lego Technic model takes about two years from concept to the final product. The Lamborghini is the third in the list of supercars by Lego after the Porsche 911 GT3 RS and Bugatti Chiron.

Why the Sian?

Aurelien went on to add that more often than not Lego approaches the manufacturers especially if a new car is groundbreaking in its functionality and challenging for the team at Lego to build it. For the Sian however, Lamborghini approached Lego with a top-secret project, with an invitation to visit them at their headquarters.

The Process

The development for the Sian took 18 months with 50-60 iterations built to incorporate as many functionalities as possible into the car within its limited space. The biggest challenge for any Lego designer is adding elements into a build while also making it look like a car. The functionalities of a car must also be given importance, things like gear shifts, scissor doors and interior trim are all crucial for the overall authentic look and feel of the car. The Sian is unique in that there are no stickers on the Lego pieces, the logos are printed directly onto the Lego elements. Only five new elements were created for the Lamborghini Sian with the other elements carried forward from existing Lego projects.

How long does it take to build one?

It will take a Lego Technic enthusiast who knows her way around the elements about eight hours to build the Lamborghini Sian. A Lego designer will most likely take about six hours whereas for people like me with little to no experience, I'd say a safe bet is around 20 hours.

The Lamborghini Sian FKP 37 retails in Malaysia for
RM1,599.90. If you're looking for a new hobby...


Honda Thailand Confirms All-New 2016 Civic To Come With VTEC Turbo, Badged As Civic RS

Honda Automobile Thailand has confirmed that the all-new, tenth generation 2016 Honda Civic will be offered with two engine options – 1.8-litre naturally aspirated, and 1.5-litre direct injected turbocharged unit.
Both engines will be paired to a CVT transmission.
This is different from the available engine options in the North American market Civic, which comes with either an 2.0-litre naturally aspirated unit paired to a 6-speed manual, or a 1.5-litre turbocharged unit paired to a CVT. Both engines are all-new and are not carried over from the outgoing FB-generation Civic.
The accompanying photo provided by Honda also suggested that the turbocharged Civic will be badged as the Civic RS. The car shown was equipped with LED headlamps.
For Thailand, the 1.5-litre VTEC Turbo unit is tuned to produce 173 hp at 5,500 rpm, and 220 Nm of torque at 5,500 rpm, which Honda says is similar to a 2.4-litre class engine, but with better fuel economy. The output is higher than the same
VTEC Turbo engine that we sampled
 in Japan last year, albeit in a Jade RS.
It is however, not compatible with E85 gasohol – crucial for Thailand, which also means it the Civic RS will have to pay higher excise duties than its peers. The 1.8-litre engine however, is E85-compatible. But this is information is purely academic, as E85 fuel is not relevant to consumers in Malaysia.
Honda also said that the tenth generation Civic will be making its Asia-region debut in India before launching in Thailand.
Honda also claims that the Civic will be most spacious model in its class, with a cabin that rivals a D-segment sedan.
More on the all-new 2016 Honda Civic
here
. Last year, we were given a preview of what to expect from the 1.5-litre VTEC Turbo engine, find out more
here
.


2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class CKD Malaysia Launch; E200, E250 From RM349k

The much-awaited roll-out of the locally-assembled
W213 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
 in Malaysia is finally underway as the new Pekan-built units take over at the showroom from their
German-built predecessors
.
Benefiting from EEV incentives, the CKD E-Class enjoys a substantial price reduction enabling it to compete more keenly against an increasingly crowded segment that has just welcomed the
Volvo S90 / V90
 along with the all-new
G30 BMW 5 Series
. Like the E-Class, both the S90 and 5 Series were launched as CBUs with local-assembly set to commence later.
From the four-pronged line-up offered with the CBU models, the E200 and E250 models remain, but the range-topping E300 model is set to replaced by the E350e plug-in hybrid variant that was previewed at the launch event but will only be launched in Q3, priced below RM400,000. More on the Malaysian market
2017 Mercedes-Benz E350e here
.
E200 Avantgarde:
 RM348,888 (CBU: RM395,888)
E250 Avantgarde:
 RM378,888 (CBU: RM420,888)
E250 Exclusive:
 RM383,888 (CBU: RM425,888)
As before, the regular petrol variants are powered by Mercedes’ M274 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine producing 184hp/300Nm in the E200 and 211hp/350Nm in the E250. Mercedes-Benz's in-house 9G-Tronic 9-speed auto is the standard transmission for all variants.
Equipment levels of the locally-assembled E-Class are unchanged from their CBU counterparts, though the number of colour choices are for the moment reduced. Key features of each variant are summarized as follows:
E200:
Paddle Shifters
Carplay and Android smartphone integration
18-inch alloy wheels
Aluminium cabin trim
Heated front seats with lumbar support
Double sun blind, electric rear window blind, roller sun blinds for both rear doors
Park Pilot (autonomous side and reverse parking)
Reverse camera
E250:
Adaptive High Beam Assist
19-inch alloy wheels
Panoramic sunroof
360-degree camera
Keyless entry
Open pore black ash wood trim (Avantgarde)
Brown high-gloss ash wood trim (Exclusive)
Upper dashboard in Artico leather (Exclusive)


Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W213) Launches in Malaysia; 4 CBU Variants from RM396k

Following the start of teaser campaigns a fortnight ago, as well as the
global introduction of its Estate variant
 only this week, the all-new
W213 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
 makes landfall in Malaysia, hitting the market with a selection of four variants with prices kicking off from RM395,888.
Only the base E 200 Avantgarde variant will be available from launch, however, with a further set of variants to progressively enter the market later this year; September will see the introduction of the E 250 in Avantgarde and Exclusive lines, whilst the range-topping E 300 AMG Line will complete the range in November.

All variants are powered by the familiar M274 four-cylinder petrol engine from the outgoing W212 E-Class, but granted with an extra two ratios to work with in Mercedes-Benz’s new 9-speed automatic transmission, they are able to offer improved fuel efficiency whilst retaining its predecessor’s familiar outputs.
Coming a mere six months after its
global debut at Detroit
 this January, the W213 starts off life in Malaysia coming fully-imported from
Sindelfingen, Germany
 before Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) switches sourcing of its mid-range executive switches to local-assembly at Pekan. Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s Vice President for Sales & Marketing, Mark Raine, has indicated that CKD versions of the new E-Class should be hitting our roads sometime next year.
Inspired by the success of the outgoing E-Class’ E 300 BlueTec Hybrid variant, Raine also indicated that a hybrid variant for the new E-Class will be considered for local-assembly. At present, the only hybrid model in the E-Class global catalogue is the E 350 e plug-in hybrid – a vehicle with 279hp and 600Nm as well as an all-electric range of 30km, promising an officially-rated fuel consumption of 2.1 litres/100km.
Competing directly against the
BMW 5 Series
 as well as
Audi A6
, and perhaps to a certain extent the
Jaguar XF
,
Lexus GS
, and
Infiniti Q70
, the E-Class is traditionally one of Mercedes-Benz’s most recognizable models globally. This iteration brings an impressive array of technology to bear on the competition, with the Malaysian market having the following advanced features to look forward to:
Stardust Tail Lights:
 Crystal optic with innovative reflectors and LED illumination give the tail lights an appearance reminiscent of stardust or the glow of a jet engine, depending on how you see it.
Multi-Beam LED Headlights:
 84 individually-controlled high performance LEDs providing not only bright but also actively optimized illumination to avoid dazzling other road users. Each of the 84 LEDs can vary their brightness individually to continuously adjust lighting distribution as well as switch between high and low beam illumination.
Fully Digital Cockpit:
 Two adjacent 12.3-inch hi-res screens provide a widescreen cockpit providing display for a large volume of driver information. The driver can choose between three different styles for their preferred look of the instrument cluster – ‘Classic’, ‘Sport’, and ‘Progressive’. This feature is standard on all variants of the E-Class officially on sale in Malaysia, although the E 200 demonstrator display unit shown at launch is fitted with a conventional instrument cluster.
Multifunction Steering Wheel:
 More than mere buttons, the E-Class’s steering-mounted controls incorporates touch operation that reads swiping movements like a smartphone interface. The familiar central touchpad found in the current C- and S-Class remains present as well.
64-Colour Interior Lighting:
 LEDs at trim parts, central display, centre console front stowage, handle recesses, door pockets, footwells, overhead console, and tweeters (for Burmester-equipped cars only) can be configured to light up the cabin at night with 64 different ambient colours.
Active Brake Assist:
 Autonomous emergency braking. Warns drivers of impending collisions, provides supporting force in emergency braking situations, and autonomously brakes the vehicle if necessary. Equipped with pedestrian detection.
Pre-Safe Impulse Side:
 Air chambers at the side of the seat back expand and push occupants toward the centre of the vehicle if a side impact is deemed imminent.
Pre-Safe Sound:
 Emits a short interference sound over the vehicle’s audio system to warn of an impending collision.
The above equipment is standard for all variants of the E-Class in addition to the ones listed below starting with the
E 200 Avantgarde
:
Paddle Shifters
Carplay and Android smartphone integration
Avantgarde exterior trim with large central star on grille
18-inch alloy wheels
Aluminium cabin trim
Heated front seats with lumbar support
Double sun blind, electric rear window blind, roller sun blinds for both rear doors
Park Pilot (autonomous side and reverse parking)
Reverse camera
The following items are added to the
E 250 Avantgarde:
Adaptive High Beam Assist
19-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels
Panoramic sunroof
Open pore black ash wood trim
360-degree camera
Keyless entry
The
E 250 Exclusive
 has the same functional equipment as the E 250 Avantgarde, but features the following trim differences:
Classic grille with star on bonnet
19-inch 10-spoke alloys
Brown high-gloss ash wood trim
Upper dashboard in Artico leather
Finally, the
E 300 AMG Line
comes with the following exclusive features:
AMG Sport body kit
Sporty grille with large central star
19-inch 5-spoke AMG wheels
Burmester surround sound
AMG floor mats


BMW Unveils The Beautiful 3.0 CSL Hommage Concept

BMW has pulled back the curtain on their tribute concept for the 1970s 3.0 CSL racer, dubbed the CSL Hommage. The BMW Design Team wanted to recapture the iconic “Batmobile” coupe and bring it up to the modern era.
As we have previously reported on,
BMW

teased
 this very car in a detailed sketch prior to its unveil at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este. The actual car, painted in what BMW calls a Golf Yellow colour, stays very true to the drawings, almost to a fault.
Its exterior is set off from any angle by that large rear spoiler that’s integrated into the bodywork. Front air deflectors channel air into the engine compartment while the wings and sills on the car’s side feed air around to stabilize the car at high speed through at rear wing. The head and tail lamps are beautiful, as both clusters fit in well to make the car look that bit more menacing.
Focusing on the rear, the sloping roof that narrows to accommodate the start of the tail lamps which stretches across the wing is quite interesting. So, too is the general curvature of the rear itself, its minimalism, and how it integrates into the aero.
On the front, we have BMW’s laser light and LED technology to give off a most svelte and futuristic impression, while it’s X-shaped lights are meant to be reminiscent of headlamp stickers of racing cars of old. One can’t avoid the rather large BMW kidney grille which oddly contrasts the slender cues that cover pretty much the entirety of the car.
With lightweight design being the cornerstone of the CSL Hommage’s inception, the car itself incorporates the most innovative material choices. Its name is an abbreviation of "Coupé Sport Leichtbau" which translates to “coupé, sport, lightweight”. Copious use of carbon fibre reinforced plastics (CFRP) were incorporated into the 328 Hommage’s construction as the automaker has been heavily involved in the production and use of the material in their ‘i’ cars - the
BMW i8
 and
BMW i3
.
CFRP isn’t limited to the exterior either, as the interior is made entirely of it, save for the wood trim on the instrument panel in remembrance of the earlier BMW 3.0 CSL’s all-round wood trim interior.
Under the hood sits an inline six cylinder engine. That’s as far as BMW will officially state. We can speculate that it’s also a 3.0-litre unit, coincidentally, potentially sourced from the M division. The CSL Hommage’s eBoost feature suggests its also augmented by an electric motor.
Feel free to browse the gallery and drink in this beautiful concept from BMW, or watch the video below to see it in action:


2016 Volkswagen Jetta - Almost All You Need To Know

Here's almost all you need to know about the 2016 Volkswagen Jetta 1.4 TSI, ahead of it scheduled launch, sometime next week. Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) have already started
taking orders
 for the Jetta which is offered in three variants – Trendline, Comfortline and Highline.
Let’s start with what is new across the range. The facelifted Jetta will be powered by a new turbocharged and direct-injected 1.4-litre TSI engine which delivers 150PS and 250Nm of torque between 1,500 to 3,500rpm. The pre-facelifted model’s engine combined a supercharger and turbocharger, the new unit makes do with only a turbocharger, much like the
VW Golf (Mk7) 1.4 TSI
.
Power is sent to a new 7-Speed Direct-Shift Gearbox (DSG), replete with two driving programmes - Normal and Sport. Volkswagen claims the new Jetta will sprint from 0 to 100km/h in 8.6 seconds all the way to a 220km/h top speed while returning a frugal 5.0litres/100km on the combined cycle.
The new Jetta is officially recognised as an Energy Efficient Vehicle (EEV), Start/Stop and regenerative braking technology are significant contributors to this.
The safety suite across the range enlists six-airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Hill-Hold Control and Multi-Collision Brake System (MBS). MBS helps prevent further accidents following a collision – once an initial collision is detected, MBS triggers automated controlled braking to a defined value and vehicle speed to prevent further collisions with the car in front or in the oncoming lane.
The key differences between the three variants of the Volkswagen Jetta are as follows:
Jetta 1.4 TSI Trendline
'RCD 220' radio, six speaker setup with USB and SD card
Auto-dimming rear view mirror
Zebrano decorative trim, Sienna fabric upholstery
Reverse sensors
'Sedona' alloy wheels 6.5J x 16-inch alloys
Halogen headlights
Jetta 1.4 TSI Comfortline
'RDC 330G', 5" touchscreen display, six speaker setup with USB, iPod Interface, Bluetooth and Mirrorlink
Multi-function steering wheel
Dual-Zone Climate control
Auto headlights with ‘leave home function’
Split-fold rear backrest
'Mambo' alloy wheels 6.5J x 16-inch alloys
Jetta 1.4 TSI Highline
'RDC 330G', 5" touchscreen display, eight speaker setup
Paddle-shifters
Black Vienna leather upholstery
Bi-xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lights
'Queensland' alloy wheels 7J x 17-inch alloys
KESSY - Keyless entry & smart start system
Perhaps all that remains to be known is the finalised prices of the new Jetta, Volkswagen had earlier announced a price range of between RM110,000 to RM130,000. The new Jetta is available in four colours - Candy White, Platinum Grey, Reflex Silver and Deep Black.


iCar Asia Launches New, Improved Website for Carlist.my

After two months of development work, and several more months spent conducting market research, iCar Asia is proud to reveal our new Carlist.my website, which has now been improved for better aesthetics and ease of use.
Based on consumer feedback gathered with the assistance of market research agency Frost & Sullivan, we found that central functionalities our website were already well-accepted by consumers, but the layout, the general look and feel of the website, could benefit from a redesign.
With this, our Product & Technology team set about to redesign the website, keeping in mind that the idea is not to reinvent the wheel, but to build on our current success while seeking to improve the overall user experience.
The first of several more phased upgrades to come, the new Carlist.my’s homepage and search listings results page now features a slicker layout that now loads 14 times faster. Users logging in from their mobile devices, which now constitutes the majority of traffic coming to Carlist.my, will definitely appreciate the faster response times.
This, along with several more subsequent upgrades planned, will eventually see the entire Carlist.my website revamped. The upgrades are being rolled out in stages, with each subsequent upgrade carried out after careful deliberation and reviewing feedback from consumers.
The upgrades are part of a wider initiative to strengthen Carlist.my’s position as not only Malaysia’s leading marketplace for cars, but also the most trusted website for buying and selling of cars. All classifieds advertised on Carlist.my are moderated by a team which vets through each advertiser’s details. This is to protect consumers against scammers or dealers with poor reputation.
Genuine dealers with a good history of providing good customer service are all marked with a ‘Trusted Dealer’ tag on all their listings.
Jason Thoe, Country Manager (Malaysia) at iCar Asia said “As Malaysia's Number 1 car site, it is crucial that Carlist.my delivers an excellent experience for consumers across the car buying experience; from research, comparisons, to actual purchase. With the new pages launched, we're confident that consumers will find Carlist.my to be Fast, Relevant and incredibly empowering throughout their car buying journey. I'm extremely excited for consumers to visit and to experience the new Carlist.my; coupled with our Trusted Dealership program, confident that Carlist.my IS the fastest and safest way to find their next car!”


BYD goes top of the chart and dethrones Volkswagen

BYD has overtaken VW's sales record in China, proving that more and more people in China are starting to trust their local brand.

We're really looking forward to the
upcoming launch of BYD's electric cars in Malaysia
, because if sales records is anything to go by, BYD is actually a growing automotive brand which might just turn into a powerhouse.

According to Automotive News Europe, the Shenzhen-based company is the best-selling vehicle brand in China for November 2022, beating the number of sales recorded by Volkswagen, which has dominated the country's market for a long time.

"Retail sales for BYD rose by 83% to 152,863 vehicles from Nov 1 to Nov 27, compared to the same period a year earlier, according to data from China Merchants Bank International (CMBI).

"BYD's tally was higher than VW's retail sales of 143,602 and Toyota's, which were 0.3% and 0.5% lower, respectively."

But, if VW and Audi sales are combined, the Volkswagen Group is still ahead of BYD with a total of 180,449 units. The report also mentioned that sales of Volkswagen and Toyota in November fell 0.3% and 0.5%, respectively, compared to the same period last year.

The success recorded by BYD is an indication that the Chinese automotive brand has now reached a level where it is able to compete with the bigger brands.

As reported by Automotive News Europe, automakers from China are now able to offer a wide variety of affordable and tech-packed electric vehicles to lure consumers away from more popular brands.

This has put a lot of pressure on brands such as Volkswagen, Hyundai and Ford, where their factories in China have recorded a production decline of between 30-50% in the last five years.

BYD is on the cusp of
launching its first product in Malaysia
 in just a few days, and we hope they can be competitive to give Malaysians more options when it comes to purchasing electric cars. Yes they are starting with the Atto3 SUV, but who knows what the future holds where they might even bring down their full Ev range, including the BYD Han sedan.


More Restructuring Of Highway Concessions On The Way

More restructuring of highway operators is being planned - how are they planning to do it and how does it affect you?

Following the announcement made yesterday by Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob on the Amanat Lebuhraya Rakyat Bhd's (ALR) offer to buy shares of four Gamuda -linked highway concessions, Senior Works Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said more restructuring with highway operators is being planned.

"The government welcomes the private sector to come up with terms like this, whereby concessionaires will hand back the highway to the government once they settle the debt."

"This will ease the burden of the people. There will be negotiations on a restructuring involving other highway concessions after this," he said, as reported by Bernama.

How will it ease the burden of the people?

During the announcement yesterday, the Malaysian PM said that highway toll rates operated by four concessionaires - Kesas, Smart Tunnel, Sprint and LDP - would not be increased until their concessions expired, and this would be done by restructuring the four companies.

"To help ALR achieve the objectives of its establishment, the Government has agreed to extend the concession period to KESAS, LDP, SPRINT and SMART in exchange for not raising toll rates. However, the extension of this concession period is not the exclusive right of the concession company and is subject to the number of traffic as well analysis by the Government from time to time," Fadillah said as reported by The Malaysian Reserve.

Who is ALR?

ALR is described as a private, non-profit organisation with a mandate to assist the Government. It is chaired by Tan Sri Azlan Mohd Zainol where all the shareholders' shares are not-for-profit.

So how does it change things?

There will be no more profit-oriented shareholders through this restructuring, while the existing shareholders – the EPF, KWAP, PNBM and Lembaga Tabung Haji- will get an early investment return.

"Users of these highways will no longer have to worry about a possible increase in tolls, nor will the government have to use the people's tax revenues to pay compensation to concessionaires." said Fadillah."

All of this sounds familiar

This is
not the first time the Government has tried to do this
 because in 2019, the Pakatan Harapan government offered RM6.2 billion to take over four similar toll concessions related to Gamuda. However, the difference now is that the Government has managed to not spend any money on the deal as well as having not to maintain and operate all the related highways.


First Look: New Batmobile

Another month, another teaser for the new Robert Pattinson Batman.

This time around however it's about the all-important Batmobile and to be honest, the car looks like it was built by Batman's old butler Alfred Pennyworth rather than Nolan's super smooth Lucius Fox.

If it was down to Lucious, the Batmobile would surely have been some bonkers military-grade vehicle, but this looks more like an old school muscle car creation built in one of the custom shops in Texas.

On the net, some have said the front looks like a Plymouth Barracuda and the rear looks like a trophy truck. Whatever your interpretation of this vehicle might be, it definitely looks more like an old school muscle car rather than anything futuristic more relevant to Batman.

The engine that has been strapped on the rear looks like a turbocharged V10 power plant so we hope that at least give us a little bit of an aural experience when the movie debuts.

Apart from the trailer showing Batmans's new costume, the other teaser has been about the cafe racer styled Batbike, perhaps indicating Matt Reeves' (Director) interest in retro-looking machines.

We're not entirely convinced of what we've seen so far of Batman's vehicles but here's hoping we're pleasantly surprised and not expectedly disappointed.


Revisiting the (C99) Proton Satria GTi – A Machine Of Balance and Purity

On a bright Sunday morning, there’s nothing quite like meeting up with a bunch of petrolheads and going for a quick drive - the fresh air, the freedom of the open roads, a good beat on the radio, and the all-consuming experience of shifting through the gears (manually) above 5,000 rpm at the very least.

There’s nothing quite like the catharsis that offers, while some might think it’s useless to drive to nowhere, waste fuel, and achieve very little in the process, I would be very happy to do this to the day I kick the bucket. Moreover, being able to share it with likeminded people just makes it all the more interesting.

Of course, the car is everything, a Sunday drive is not about outright speed or breaking laws (at least in my book), but creating memories and being connected to your car, and few cars do that better (in my opinion) than what I consider to be the best Proton ever produced: the Proton Satria GTi (sorry X70).

Launched in 1998, the (C99) Satria GTi took the successful and sporty looking Satria three-door hatchback and developed it into a tarmac loving bruiser for the common man. Proton’s ownership of Lotus at the time gave them invaluable resources and know-how to take the relatively sedate Satria body and totally reengineer it into one of the best driving cars in its class at the time.

The main highlights were a strengthened and stiffened body shell, suspension that was tweaked by the boffins at Lotus, with the Mitsubishi sourced 1.8-litre 4G93P twin-cam, 16-valve, four-cylinder shoehorned under the bonnet – thereby giving it the guts and ability to be a serious sporting machine!

Aesthetically, the Satria GTi was given purposeful updates such as a redesigned front and rear bumper, 16-inch wheels, chiselled side skirts and further up top, a spoiler for additional stability at speed. On the inside, the GTi received additional accessories in the form of Recaro Njoy semi-bucket seats, unique fabric upholstery, white gauge dials, and some fancier trim pieces on the dashboard. Oh, and it only came in silver.

20-years on, the GTi (and the rest of the Proton’s 1.8L engined brethren such as the Putra and Wira
Tiang Gol
)
 is still much loved and respected by many car enthusiasts for their balance of driving purity, and commendable performance.

However, in recent times, most people who know or own these cars will note that they’re not the safest thing to leave parked for long periods of time. Unfortunately, the very things that make the GTi unique, like the engine, bodykit and seats – also make them a hot target for theft. Hence, many owners only drive them short distances (such as on Sunday drives), rather than use them as the daily superstars that they’re lauded for.

There’s a joke I like to tell my friends, “leave a Satria GTi with the doors locked, steering lock in place, and a Bentley next to it with the keys inside and the engine running… and the GTi will still get stolen”. That pretty much sums the situation up.

So I was pleasantly pleased to find out the owner of this Satria GTi, Aiman still drives his GTi every other day of the week, and 20-years on still loves it for its sensational driving performance.

Most will note that Aiman’s GTi doesn’t look like a typical Satria GTi – he’s had it repainted, downsized the wheels, and added some modifications to make it turn harder and go faster.

He admits the reason he repainted the car was one, because he liked that BMW-inspired shade of brown, and two because he wanted to attract as little attention as possible. He also says that he doesn’t mind the scratches and stone chips acquired over the years because it makes the car less appealing to prying eyes.

Besides that, he runs a full TEIN adjustable suspension setup, replica 15-inch SSR rims, upgraded front brakes, an aftermarket air intake, and a GReddy E-Manage ‘piggyback ECU’. Elsewhere, everything remains pretty much as it left the factory. Aiman says the modifications are simple ‘bolt-on’ items just meant to improve on the GTi’s performance,  but he never chased outright power. Having used his car both on track and road, the most important aspect to him was balanced performance and having a setup that rewarded good driving and smooth inputs.

Having spent some time with Aiman and his GTi, I can understand why he says he has no plans to sell his car simply because it still offers a driving experience that can rival new cars, and far more enjoyment due to its
Ol-Skool
 feel and connectivity. With 138 bhp and its lightweight kerb weight, I’d contend that’s it’s still plenty of speed in the right hands. Its reliability, even after all these years, is another factor why Aiman’s says its still all the car he’ll ever need.

Not to mention, that despite its sedate exterior, everything mechanical still feels tight and works great.

Which brings me to my final thoughts after revisiting this potent machine after all these years, it is the fact that even more than the sum of its parts, the GTi stood for so much more.

It stood for accessible performance, it stood for Proton’s ability to engineer cars that were fun and sporty, it proved Proton’s ability to go up against more established rivals from Honda and Toyota, and most of all, it stood as the poster child for every car-loving boy or girl, who wanted to start his/her automotive journey with a bang.

Despite its rarity, you can still get your hands on a (C99) Proton Satria GTi, click
here
 for some great deals.


Mitsubishi Motors Introduces Mobile Service Unit For Customers In Rural Areas

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) has introduced the Mitsubishi Mobile Service Unit to serve customers living in rural areas off Kuching, Sarawak.
“As part of our aftersales business expansion program, the Mitsubishi mobile service unit is to provide greater convenience and assurance for our customers living in rural areas in Sarawak that are far away from authorized Mitsubishi service centres,” said Tomoyuki Shinnishi, Chief Executive Officer of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia.
The Mitsubishi mobile service unit is capable of servicing up to 10 cars per day and will cover vehicle scheduled maintenance, inspection of vehicle wear and tear, and timing belt replacement.
The mobile unit, which comes equipped with special Mitsubishi Multi Use Tester Diagnostic Scanner, hydraulic jack with stand, air compressor and tool sets, will also carry spare parts such as oil filter and lubricants and its own generator for power supply.
The Mitsubishi mobile service unit will be operated by certified Mitsubishi authorized service dealers EON Auto Mart and Jimisar Autotrade in Kuching, and will be traveling as far as 150km radius away from Kuching to towns such as Sematan, Lundu, Bau, Serian and Simunjan.
“This is Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia’s first mobile service truck and customers shall see more of these mobile units in the near future as we are encouraging our authorized Mitsubishi dealers with fleet and rural customer base to embark on this effort to service our customers better,” added Shinnishi.
Customers in Sarawak who are interested in obtaining services by the Mitsubishi mobile service unit truck can schedule an appointment with Mitsubishi authorized dealers:
EON Auto Mart, Kuching
Jimisar Autotrade, Kuching
Alternatively, customers may also contact Mitsubishi’s Motors Customer Careline at 1800 18 8161, 9 am – 5 pm, Mondays to Fridays.
Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia is currently represented by 54 showrooms (out of which 47 are 3S Centres) and 53 service outlets throughout Malaysia.  In East Malaysia, MMM is represented by 14 showrooms (6 in Sarawak and 8 in Sabah).


First Drive: Hyundai Kona – A New Challenger Appears

It’s been a fairly quiet year, but as all companies hurry to get their models out by the end of 2020, Hyundai comes in hot with the all-new Kona.

If there was ever an automotive market segment to get into, it would be the B-segment for crossovers. These things are flying off the showroom floor – to the point where they’ve become more hotly contested and in far larger demand than even D-segment SUVs. One of the newest offerings – if you can ignore the
Proton X50
 for a minute – is the Hyundai Kona, which has been teased to Malaysians for a while now.

The reason it’s taken Hyundai Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) so long to launch the Kona is simply because of the change in government combined with COVID-19 – as is the case for many other automotive brands here. But with the official launch just around the corner, many details of the Kona have been revealed.

Three variants of the
Kona
 are on offer, with two different powertrains through the range. The base model and the mid-spec come with a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine sending power to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. Reserved for the top spec model is the 1.6-litre turbocharged direct injection petrol engine, paired with a seven speed dual-clutch transmission that also sends power to the front wheels. Outputs are 149 hp and 179 Nm of torque, and 177 hp and 265 Nm of torque for the naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines respectively.

We had the opportunity to sample these models through a very, very short drive but it was enough for us to get an impression of where the Kona sits among its rivals as well as where its strengths lie. With a price that starts at around RM 115,000 – tentatively – it is in a position to be very competitive within its bracket, so it pays to know what it excels in.

In terms of performance, the 2.0-litre units just about deliver – though it doesn’t quite feel as spritely as its Japanese rivals. That being said, it is incredibly refined when cruising at highway speeds – even with the engine speed hovering around 3,000 rpm, you can hardly tell that it’s chugging away and it is a surprisingly refined package.

The turbocharged 1.6-litre is obviously the more potent option, with a gearbox that responds quickly enough to inputs and gets you up to speed with no fuss. It is very satisfying on the move and something that you can appreciate if you need something a little zippier for your urban commute.

In terms of comfort, both variants feel fairly identical – and where the Kona sits in the grand scheme of things can be pretty easy to explain. The suspension setup is very slightly on the stiff side of comfortable, but not so stiff as to feel aggressive like the Mazda CX-3. It ranks somewhere between the Honda HR-V and the Mazda CX-3, and that’s a pretty pleasant place to be. With a torsion beam rear suspension, it definitely can’t replicate the experience of options like the Subaru XV or Toyota C-HR.

Legroom and headroom are adequate as well, even for taller and fatter passengers such as yours truly (at 180 cm tall). The Kona isn’t obviously as roomy as the HR-V given Honda simply has better packaging, but it again isn’t as tight as some of the other options out there. The boot space is fairly ample with a low loading floor for ease of loading and unloading.

In terms of features, the Kona gets a pretty solid amount of kit from even the entry level model. A 7-inch infotainment screen with Apple Carplay and Android Auto, a 4.2-inch colour display for the instrument cluster, push start, keyless entry, hill-start assist, downhill braking assist, drive mode select, TPMS, and a reverse camera are all standard – as is six airbags across the range. Spring for the mid-spec model and you get an 18-inch dual-tone alloy wheel package, electric front drivers seat, and a heads-up display. Only the top spec model will receive a wireless smartphone charger and Advanced Driver Assist systems – the usual acronyms like LKA, HBA, FCW, ACC, DAW, and so on.

The Kona is definitely shaping up to be a solid option for those looking to get into compact crossovers, and with competitive pricing it should sell well. Of course brand perception comes into play, but as many have said – take the badge off, and you would never expect to be in a Korean car. It’s time Malaysians understand how far Korean cars have come and just how good of an experience they can be.


Mercedes-AMG GLE 43 4Matic Coupe OrangeArt – 3.0 V6, 390 hp, RM719k

Alongside the locally-assembled GLC 200 launched earlier today, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia additionally adds the Mercedes-AMG GLE 43 Coupe to its model portfolio in the country.
Available exclusively in
OrangeArt Edition trim
, the GLE 43 Coupe further expands MBM’s already extensive portfolio of SUV models whilst also adding to the
AMG 43 series
 range unveiled in Malaysia this year to coincide with local celebrations of
AMG’s 50
th
 anniversary
.
Priced at RM718,888 on-the-road without insurance, the GLE 43 Coupe is currently offered on a per order basis in the Malaysian market.
It becomes the range-topping variant of the GLE Coupe range introduced early last year in
GLE 400 Coupe and GLE 450 AMG 4Matic Coupe
 variants; both incidentally powered by 3.0-litre twin turbo V6s in varying states of tune – 333hp and 367hp respectively. The GLC 43 directly replaces the GLE 450.
The GLE 43 Coupe is also powered by a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6, but fettled with a more aggressive AMG-optimized tune, puts out 390hp and 520Nm. Drive goes through Merc’s in-house 9G-Tronic torque converter auto to all wheels.
Electronically limited to a top speed of 250 km/h, the GLE 43 Coupe sprints from rest to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds and records an official fuel consumption of 9.4 litres/100km in the combined cycle (CO
2
 – 215 g/km).
Finishing of the GLE 43 Coupe combines AMG Line trim with Night Package finishing. In conjunction with its OrangeArt Edition spec, the vehicle also sports orange contrast highlights both inside out. Exclusive to the OrangeArt Edition, the black nappa leather / Dinamica microfibre upholstery is contrasted with orange piping and grey top stitching.
Standard equipment of the AMG GLE 43 Coupe includes the following:
Autonomous emergency braking, cross-traffic detection
Active blind spot assist
Active lane keeping assist
Active cruise control (Distronic) with steering pilot
Drowsiness detection (Attention Assist)
360-degree camera
Airmatic air suspension
21-inch alloy wheels
LED headlamps, adaptive high beams
Electric panoramic glass sunroof
Keyless entry and start
Powered tailgate
Infotainment: Comand Online
Harmon Kardon Logic 7 surround sound
Rear seat entertainment
Smart phone integration, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto


Girls Can Be Racers Too – Mattel Teams Up With Mercedes-Benz To Inspire Young Girls

Depending on which side of the nature vs nurture debate you side with, the environment in which a child grows up in plays a significant role in a child’s development, sometimes more than the child’s inherent genetic traits.
In many cases, the nurturing environment shapes a child’s gender identity from a very young age and that indirectly imposes a psychological limit on what the child thinks he/she can or cannot achieve based on society’s expectations of their gender.
Toymaker Mattel is at the centre of this heated debate. The company that owns Barbie (and Polly Pocket) as well as Hot Wheels (and Matchbox) brands has often been blamed for perpetuating gender stereotypes among children. Its range of Barbie dolls have been blamed for imposing unrealistic expectations of body image and a white-centric standards of beauty among girls.
As part of a very slick public relations exercise, Mattel has teamed with Mercedes-Benz to make a die-cast model of the number 711 Mercedes-Benz 220SE (W111), a predecessor of today’s S-Class, raced by an all-women’s team of Swedish ladies Ewy Rosqvist and Ursula Wirth in the 1962 Argentinian Touring Car Grand Prix.
The pair of ladies dominated the 4,624 km race to set a new course record. Out of the 286 cars that started the race, only 43 managed to finish.
Now, Mattel is giving away die-cast models of Rosqvist and Wirth’s number 711 Mercedes-Benz to primary school girls in the US. The model will also be sold in toy stores. The move is aimed to inspire young girls to learn about the story of Rosqvist and Wirth, and to challenge gender stereotypes.
Find the latest deals for new Mercedes-Benz cars
here
.


Spyshot: All-New 2017 Land Rover Discovery Spotted In Malaysia

Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia is set to introduce the all-new third-generation Land Rover Disovery here, as spyshot of the new model have emerged.
Our reader Peggy sent this spyshot of the new Land Rover Discovery here in Malaysia, indicating that JLRM is set to introduce this new model in the near future. We understand that JLRM will be introducing the Discovery with a 3.0-litre turbodiesel V6. While these two units appear to be wearing 19-inch alloy wheels, we believe that these could be units bound for homologation duties. Actual units could be wearing larger wheels.
The all-new 2017 Land Rover Discovery made its initial debut about a year ago in UK, just ahead of the 2016 Paris Motor Show. Sales of the new Discovery commenced in the UK in February 2017.
Powertrain options include a 3.0-litre supercharged V6 petrol engine, a 3.0-litre turbodiesel V6, a 2.0-litre Ingenium turbodiesel and a 5.0-litre supercharged V8, with the latter being exclusive for the Land Rover Discovery SVX. All engines are mated to an eight-speed ZF automatic.
Land Rover developed the new Discovery on the Range Rover’s aluminium platform, allowing the new model to shave up to 480 kg over its predecessor.
Fully-imported from Land Rover’s production facility in Solihull, UK, the new Discovery will be challenging the likes of the Volvo XC90 and Audi Q7 in the premium SUV segment.


KL Roads To Be Closed For Merdeka Parade

The
Independence Day
 parade or Merdeka parade will be returning to
Dataran Merdeka
 this year, which means that
some roads in KL will be closed off
.

We're looking at around 18 roads that are planned to be closed off from traffic from 26 August 2022 (this Friday) to 31 August 2022 (next Wednesday). That's a whole lot of roads, but they're actually needed for the crews involved for rehearsal from 6 am to 12 pm, especially Jalan Sultan Hishammuddin towards Dataran Merdeka and Jalan Raja.

Which roads will be closed?

According to the latest report by
The Star
, City police chief Comm Datuk Azmi Abu Kassim stated, "From Saturday (Aug 27) to Aug 29 full rehearsals will be carried out. As such Jalan Raja, Jalan Travers, Jalan Damansara, Bulatan Hishamuddin as well as Jalan Kinabalu toward Cheras and Selayang will be closed."

The roads that will be closed on Malaysia's Independence Day itself are:

Jalan Raja

Jalan Travers

Jalan Damansara

Bulatan Hishamuddin

Jalan Kinabalu

Jalan Kuching

Bulatan Dato Onn

Jalan Tun H. S. Lee

Jalan Hang Lekiu

Jalan Hang Kasturi

Jalan T. A. Rahman

Jalan Raja Laut

Jalan Munshi Abdullah

Jalan Dang Wangi

Jalan Bunus 6

What about those who want to attend the parade?

The easiest way is to come early and use public transport. Driving is possible, but parking spaces will be limited which are available in some areas near Masjid India, Jalan Sultan Salahuddin, and the Dang Wangi PDRM HQ.

If you're planning to catch a Grab ride, set the location to drop you off near Masjid India or Jalan Parlimen. Or, enjoy that day off at home and catch all the action live on television. Crack open a cold root beer and add a scoop of ice cream while you're at it.


Nissan Grand Livina Gets New IMPUL Package

IMPUL is back at it again with another one of their kits for a Nissan product. This time around it's the Grand Livina that receives the treatment in the form of new bumpers, LED daytime running lights, side skirts, a rear bumper spoiler, a rear wing, a new front grille, and wheel arch extensions. These items are common across the two IMPUL packages that Edaran Tan Chong Motors (ETCM) is offering for the Grand Livina.
The first of the two packages is the IMPUL Complete Package, going for RM 12,800 inclusive of GST. On top of the listed aesthetic items, there are also 17-inch IMPUL HS-10 alloys in a chrome and black dual-tone finish. There is also the inclusion of the IMPUL suspension system, with different shock absorbers and springs for a 25 mm lower ride height and sportier dynamics. There is also a stainless steel IMPUL muffler in a polished finish.
The IMPUL Premium Package is the other option, priced at RM 13,009, inclusive of GST. Unlike the Complete Package, the Premium Package focuses more on features and comfort. Instead of the wheels, suspension, and muffler, the Premium Package gets leather seats in either beige or black, along with a driving video recorder and V-Kool security film. Which package you choose is down to what you prioritize.
The IMPUL items can also be purchased individually with the prices as shown below.
INDIVIDUAL ACCESSORIES
Price incl. GST (RM)
IMPUL AEROKIT W/ LED DRL
6,572.00
IMPUL HS-10 17" ALLOY WHEELS
4,770.00
IMPUL SPORTS SUSPENSION
2,914.00
IMPUL BLAST 2 EXHAUST MUFFLER
1,884.00
CONTINENTAL CONTIMAXCONTACT MC5 TYRES (205/45 R17)
1,822.00
WHEEL ARCH EXTENSIONS
848.00
SPORTS BLACK FRONT GRILLE
742.00


All-New Second Generation Nissan Qashqai Launched In China

Nissan’s sub-X-Trail crossover, the Qashqai, has just been launched its all-new second generation Qashqai in China. Prices start from RMB 139,800 (RM93,000 – excluding our local taxes of course).
Unlike the European market Qashqai (the model has since been discontinued in Japan), the Chinese market Qashqai is powered by either a naturally aspirated MR20 2.0-litre petrol engine or a turbocharged HRA2 1.2-litre petrol. Both engines are paired to an XTronic CVT.
The European market Qahqai comes with a choice of four engine options – 1.2-litre turbo petrol, 1.6-litre turbo petrol, 1.5-litre diesel and 1.6-litre diesel.
The Chinese market Qashqai will be sold via Nissan’s Chinese joint venture company, Dongfeng Nissan Passenger Vehicle Company (DFL-PV).
Key safety features include FEB (Forward Emergency Braking), EAPM (Emergency Assist for Pedal Misapplication), AVM (Around View Monitor), MOD (Moving Object Detection), LDP (Lane Departure Prevention) and BSW (Blind Spot Warning).
Other features include ARC ATC (Active Trace Control), AEB (Active Engine Brake), Double Modes EPS (Electric Speed-Sensitive Power Steering) and IPA (Intelligent Parking Assist).
The all-new second generation Qashqai first debuted in November 2013 in London. It is built on the Renault-Nissan Alliance's Common Module Family platform architecture.


MINI Unveils Second Generation Countryman, Plug-In Hybrid Variant Added

Ah, the Countryman. It’s the MINI product that managed to bring in a whole new demographic and enrage purists in equal measure, and it has finally come into its second generation. Much like its more wagon-y sister, the Clubman, this new Countryman sits on the BMW UKL2 platform that is shared with the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer. The car will be shown off at the LA Motorshow in the middle of November, and MINI plans to take it to the European market by February 2017 with a global rollout beginning in March 2017.
Let’s get right into it. The new MINI Countryman is a whopping 20 centimetres longer, 3 centimetres wider, and has a wheelbase that’s roughly 7.5 centimetres longer. Those are some pretty huge changes, which are naturally done in the name of improving legroom and the like (but more likely because the platform heavily dictates the actual dimensions). The rear seats can shift forwards and backwards by up to 13 centimetres, and have a 40:20:40 split for ultimate cargo packaging solutions. While the previous Countryman had 4-seater and 5-seater options, this model is meant for a full 5-person complement.
Styling this time is not as unique as the previous Countryman, which is a little disappointing. While the previous generation model was noticeably bulkier than its 2-door hatchback siblings, it also sported an entirely different set of proportions that helped to differentiate it from the rest of the range. The new Countryman looks more like a 5-door MINI hatchback that got a lift kit and some extra body cladding. There are one or two styling cues that make the Countryman immediately distinguishable, such as the new front end, slightly shorter glass panel behind the C-pillar, and the two-tone rear bumper, but you wouldn’t be at fault if you mistook it for a 5-door hatch at first glance.
There has been some repositioning of switchgear and features within the cabin to make the Countryman a little more practical than its siblings, as it was with the previous generation. There are larger door entrances for easier entry and egress thanks to the new platform, and plenty of cup holders for your thirst passengers. The dashboard and the rest are standard MINI fair- quirky, but usable. Those cool ambient lights and logo projectors on the mirrors come as part of a MINI Excitement optional package, but as far as we know they are usually offered as standard on our local models.
With MINI and BMW products, there is usually rarely anything surprising when it comes to powertrain options. As expected, the Countryman shares powertrains with its brethren: the Cooper model comes with a 3-cylinder 1.5 litre engine with 136 hp and 220 Nm, while the Cooper S comes with a 4-cylinder 2.0-litre engine that pushes 192 hp and 280 Nm. We don’t talk about the diesel variants because they’re highly unlikely to make it over here (even though they would be lovely from a practicality standpoint). There is a 6-speed manual transmission, but don’t bother asking- we’re probably going to get the 6-speed Steptronic automatic for the Cooper and the 8-speed Steptronic automatic for the Cooper S; the ALL4 all-wheel drive system is available as an option as well.
What is new, however, is a Cooper S E model which is effectively a plug-in hybrid. It pairs a the 1.5-litre engine from the Cooper with a 88 hp electric motor, pushing outputs up to 224 hp and 385 Nm. If MINI can get it locally assembled, there’s no doubt it could make good use of the EEV incentive program. The Cooper S E Countryman is capable of travelling up to 125 km/h and up to 40 kilometres on battery power alone, which is fairly similar to other hybrid vehicles in the BMW range. It is available exclusively as an all-wheel drive model, with the front wheels driven by the engine and rear powered by the electric motor.
For some strange reason, MINI is trying to push their customers off the road- literally. There’s a curious feature that you get if you tick the MINI navigation system Professional box, and it’s called the MINI Country Timer. It tracks your movements across rough terrain and registers just how demanding the driving is, and all of this data can be viewed by the driver through various graphics. It the same way an “eco” meter encourages you to drive more efficiently (for the leaves, I swear), this might make more Countryman owners go rock crawling or jungle whacking or something similar. Let’s just hope they have a good set of all-terrain tyres.
MINI likes to say that their products have historical roots, and perhaps they do in name and principle, but they are hardly tied. The first use of the Countryman name dates back to the 1960s, associated with a specific Mini variant that was a little more practical than normal- and in principle this new Countryman follows this idea. But let’s face it, the MINI Countryman is more a well thought-out, well packaged product than it is a nod to the past, and this is something that MINI enthusiasts will have to accept over time. Like the rest of MINI's products, there are wild options for customization with this Countryman like a folding out picnic bench and storage systems, so make sure to look through the catalog when you're specifying yours.


Haval M4 is Now Known as the H1

Go Automobile Manufacturing (Go Auto), the official distributor of
Haval
 vehicles in Malaysia today re-introduced the
M4
with a new name – the H1.
It is said that the name change was part of the company’s effort to restructure its product portfolio in various markets.
Powered by a 1.5-litre four-cylinder VVT MPI engine producing 105hp and 138Nm of torque, the big news with the Haval H1 is that there will no longer be a manual version, as all variants will come with a semi-automatic AMT gearbox.
The variants are:
Haval H1 Comfort – RM61,950
Haval H1 Premium – RM67,950
Haval H1 Elite – RM74,950
While the list of standard features across the range includes:
Reflector halogen headlights
Front and rear fog lights
Luggage carrier
60:40 folding rear seats
Immobiliser
Roof rails
16-inch wheels
Leather steering wheel
Digital speedometer
Fabric seats
Reverse sensors
Infotainment system with touchscreen
ABS
EBD
Brake Assist
Stability Control
Hill Start Assist
The Premium gets additional features like:
Leather seats
Battery Alert Sensor
GPS Navigation
Reverse Camera
Built-in Smart Tag
And then we have the range-topping Elite variant which gets even more features such as:
Poly-Elipse Projector Headlamp
A centre console
Digital Video Recorder (DVR)
Daytime Running Lights (DRL)
Window Film
Offered in six colours (white, silver, black, blue, red, orange), the Haval H1 comes with a seven-year/ unlimited mileage warranty. In addition, Go Auto has also introduced a “Buy Back Guarantee” program where owners will receive 50 percent of the SUV’s resale value should it be resold to the company within five years.
Last but not the least, the Haval H1, along with its sibling – the
H2
, are classified as Energy Efficient Vehicles (EEVs) by the International Trade and Industry Ministry (MITI).


Maserati Unveils The Grecale SUV - But What We Really Want Is Their Version Of The Porsche Taycan

Maserati's
SUV family
 now gets a new member, the Grecale 2023, a small crossover positioned under the Levante model but can we get an EV coupe or sedan instead?

Grecale EV, Folgore coming next year

Named in honour of the Mediterranean sea breeze, Maserati offers the Grecale with a conventional ICE powertrain, while an electric version of the Grecale called the Folgore (Folgore means lightning in Italian) expected to arrive next year.

Appearance-wise, the Grecale is unmistakably a Maserati SUV, with an identity that begins with a recessed grille, compact headlights, as well as a roofline resembling a coupe SUV.

The GT variant is powered by a turbocharged 2.0 -litre four-cylinder engine assisted by mild hybrid technology, producing 296 hp and 450 Nm, while the Modena version churns out 325 hp output from the same 2.0-litre engine.

Mean Grecale Trofeo

For those who'd like a more menacing look, the Trofeo variant brings a bolder design, starting with a rather aggressive body kit, wide air intake port openings, and larger wheels.

Apart from its more aggressive look, more importantly, the Grecale Trofeo is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, producing 523 hp and 620 Nm of torque that comes in fully from 3,000 rpm.

The engine allows the Grecale to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and has a top speed of 285 km/h.

All engines are mated to an eight-speed ZF sourced automatic transmission, all-wheel-drive system and an electronic LSD on the rear axle.

Four screens in the interior

Interior wise, the Grecale features three screens, starting with a digital meter cluster screen in front of the steering wheel, followed by 12.3-inch and 8.8-inch twin screens in the centre. If you include the interior clock at the dashboard, the Grecale has four screens in total.

For those who are eyeing the EV version, Maserati has unveiled some details regarding the Grecale Folgore, which should come in the exclusive colour of Rame Folgore (a greyish brown looking colour), a battery pack with a capacity of 105 kWh with 400V technology, and an electric motor capable of producing 800 Nm of torque.

Do we really need another super SUV?

So there you have it,
Maserati's second SUV
, which will come in three different variants, including an EV version next year. Like Porsche, they now have two differently sized SUVs, which begs the question: do they think they can emulate
what Porsche has done
 with their SUVs in terms of sales?

Well, the appeal of Porsche SUVs is that they are somewhat reliable vehicles, just like most Porsches. Yes, they have their problems here and there, but generally, they are quite robust depending on the model.

Porsche was also the first one on the scene to give the world a super SUV, enabling the company to establish strong brand recognition and customer loyalty before the competition entered the arena.

In a world where every manufacturer has an SUV, it will be pretty tough for Maserati to grab a piece of the SUV pie, just like Aston Martin and its DBX SUV are now discovering. A premium manufacturer producing an SUV is not an instant recipe for success. Ask Aston Martin.

The Maserati Levante has seen declining sales numbers in Europe after hitting peak in 2018. Is another SUV the solution or the Hail Mary that Maserati needs?

Instead, we think Maserati should probably concentrate more on their attempt to make a low slung super electric vehicle like the Porsche Taycan, where they can infuse some of that
Maserati DNA to good use
 - they are after all known for their ability to manufacture some of the most exhilarating sedans in the world.

We want Maserati's version of the Taycan!

But who knows, maybe the Maserati Grecale might just be a sales phenomenon, as unlikely as that seems. It's just another high horse-powered SUV with Maserati's design cues. What we would love to see coming out of Modena, Italy is Maserati's version of the Taycan. Since they know how to build sedans, we're pretty sure they could excel in building an electric sedan.

Speaking of EV Maseratis, the Italian luxury automaker has announced they are working on an all-electric range of vehicles called Folgore, which will include the introduction of electrified versions of their models including the new generation GranTurismo sports coupe, an electric version of the Levante, and as mentioned earlier, the Grecale. The company said it would offer electric versions of all of its models by 2025 and shift to EV-only sales by 2030.

So perhaps, we will see a Maserati EV sedan after all, it's just a shame it's not now, but instead in a few years' time.


Honda Malaysia Announces Airbag Fix For 87,182 Of Its Cars

Honda Malaysia has officially issued a recall for 87,182 units for five Honda models manufactured between 2003 and 2008. The recall is necessary to replace the driver and passenger airbag inflators with newly produced inflators for all affected models.
The five models affected and their year of manufactured are:
Honda City (2003 YM – 2008 YM)
Honda Civic (2003 YM – 2008 YM)
Honda CR-V (2002 YM – 2007 YM)
Honda Jazz (2004 YM – 2006 YM)
Honda Stream (2004 YM – 2005 YM)
Recently, Japanese airbag supplier Takata Corp expanded its recalls worldwide to fix defective airbag inflator modules manufactured by the company.
In a press release from Honda Malaysia, there were no crashes or injuries related to this issue reported in Malaysia according to the car maker.
Honda customers will be informed via notification letters containing important details of the product recall.
Honda Malaysia Sdn. Bhd
 urges owners of Honda vehicles affected for the
product updates to get their vehicles checked and parts replaced at any authorized Honda
dealers as soon as possible.
The cost of the replacement works including parts and labour will be borne by Honda Malaysia. Vehicle owners can check their vehicle’s product update status by calling Honda’s toll-free number 1-800-88-2020 or visit any authorized Honda dealer.
A detailed breakdown of each affected model is provided below:
Driver Front Airbag Models Affected
Honda City (2004 YM – 2006 YM)
Honda Civic (2006 YM)
Honda CR-V (2007 YM)
Honda Jazz (2006 YM)
Front Passenger Airbag Models Affected
Honda City (2003 YM – 2008 YM)
Honda Civic (2003 YM – 2008 YM)
Honda CR-V (2002 YM – 2007 YM)
Honda Jazz (2004 YM – 2006 YM)
Honda Stream (2004 YM – 2005 YM)


Price increases for Proton vehicles after mid-Feb

Whilst Proton may be a homegrown brand, the use of imported components in key systems of its vehicles mean that the national car maker is as vulnerable to currency fluctuations as foreign brand, as explained in our earlier story
here
.
Having
announced back in December
 that price increases across its range are being mulled, the company confirmed that hikes will indeed implemented effective 15 February 2016.
A statement released by the company said, “The weaker ringgit affects the Company’s operation cost and the entire eco-system chain.”
Depending on model variant, increases will range from RM312 to RM2,021, although the company plans to disclose specifics on its official website once the new pricing regime is in place.
For buyers currently considering a
Proton vehicle
, Proton is currently running a
Chinese New Year promotion
 with the following offers:
interest rate of 2.8% for all Proton cars
special graduate scheme with monthly instalments from RM258 a month
rebate of up to RM6,200 on selected 2015 cars
30% discount on merchandise
Loyalty Reward - rebate of up to RM3,000 is offered to all existing Proton owners who wish to replace or buy another Proton vehicle (promotion is valid until 31 March 2016)


All-New Nissan Grand Livina To Be Launched In Malaysia In Q4 2018/Q1 2019

Now that Mitsubishi Motors has been absorbed into the Renault-Nissan Alliance, it is only prudent to expect that the seven-seater Mitsubishi Xpander, currently on sale in Indonesia and
certainly coming to Malaysia
, will be coopted by Nissan.
Thus, it came as no surprise that sources familiar with the matter are now able to confirm with Carlist.my that Nissan is developing an all-new Grand Livina based on the Mitsubishi Xpander, and that it will be launched in Malaysia sometime between late-2018 and early-2019, and only after the Xpander makes its local debut.
Essentially the same car, both the Xpander and all-new Grand Livina will be differentiated by slightly different styling.
Prior to Nissan’s takeover of Mitsubishi Motors in late-2016, Nissan had no replacement for the aging Nissan Grand Livina, which was first launched in 2007 and facelifted in 2013. Post-entry into the expanded Renault Nissan Mitsubishi Alliance, markets have been speculating that Mitsubishi will soon manufacture a Nissan-badged version of the Xpander under contract in Indonesia. The arrangement will mirror Toyota’s contract manufacturing arrangement with Daihatsu, whose Xenia and Terios are also supplied to Toyota under the Avanza and Rush nameplates.
First previewed as the Mitsubishi XM Concept at the 2016 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show, the SUV-esque Xpander is Mitsubishi’s answer to the Honda BR-V.
In Indonesia, it is powered by a 1.5-litre MIVEC petrol engine that outputs 104 PS and 141 Nm, driving the front wheels via a 4-speed automatic transmission. On paper, that’s quite far off from the Honda BR-V’s 120 PS and 145 Nm but the Mitsubishi is priced lower, ranging from
IDR 189 million to 245 million
 versus the Honda’s IDR 234 million – 269 million.
It is unclear if the Malaysia-market all-new Grand Livina will be imported from Mitsubishi’s plant in Indonesia or assembled at Tan Chong’s plant in Serendah. It is also worth noting that TCMA already have an existing relationship with Mitsubishi Motors prior to the tri-diamond brand’s entry into the Alliance. Its Segambut plant, which specializes in contract assembly work, have been assembling the five-seater ASX for Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia, before adding the seven-seater Outlander to the list late last year.
Tan Chong Motor Assemblies, the vehicle assembly arm of the Nissan distributor Edaran Tan Chong Motor, have since throttled down assembly of the Grand Livina to just less than 90 units per month. At its peak, TCMA used to assemble over 400 units of the Grand Livina every month.


2015 Ferrari 488 GTB Launched In Malaysia, Asks For RM1.07 Million

Naza Italia, the sole authorised importer and distributor of the
Ferrari
 brand in Malaysia have launched the all-new 2015 Ferrari 488 GTB in Malaysia today with a introductory price of RM1,068,800 (excluding duty and options) at their
newly refurbished flagship centre in Petaling Jaya
.
Every new mid-engined V8 Ferrari is an important one and the 488 GTB is no exception. Its predecessors include the
458 Italia
,
F430
,
360 Modena
,
F355
, 348, and 308 GTB, of which some have been prepared by Naza Italia to be on display at the launch (seen above). Like its predecessors, the 488 GTB retains the mid-engined layout but this time, the V8 engine receives turbocharging, something not seen since the 208 GTB Turbo and Ferrari F40.
Under the hood of the Ferrari 488 GTB is a new 3.9-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine delivering 661hp at 8,000 rpm and 760Nm of torque in seventh gear
.
The power output overshadows the 458 Italia it replaces by nearly 100hp and 220Nm and is sent through a Getrag-sourced seven-speed dual-clutch automatic F1 transmission (with Variable Torque Management) and to the rear wheels. Ferrari have gone to great lengths and are adamant to make sure its new twin-turbo V8 powerplant provides a class-leading response time with zero turbo lag.
Simplifying the process of understanding what all that power translates to is easy if you refer to the performance figures given. 0-100 km/h of the 488 GTB is dealt with in just 3.0 seconds. Keep the accelerator pedal floored for another 5.3 seconds and the car will hit 200 km/h. Soldier on and you’ll be achieving a top speed in excess of 330 km/h!
At that speed, coming to a stop is no mean feat which is why the improved Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes fitted on the 488 are derived from technology used in Ferrari’s flagship hybrid hypercar, the LaFerrari. Measuring 398mm at the front and 360mm at the rear, they are surrounded by 20-inch five-spoke alloy wheels which themselves are wrapped in 245/35 series tyres up front and 305/30 series tyres at the back.
Those large grippy tyres are further aided by the new 488’s new vehicle dynamics which comprise of both mechanical and aerodynamic features.
Firstly, an evolved version of Ferrari’s Side Slip Control System (SSC2) makes its debut here. The system promises an increase in longitudinal acceleration out of corners by 12% and works in synergy with the car’s F1-Trac and E-Diff, controlling the SCM 3 magnetorheological damping system to ensure stability during complex manoeuvres. Control of the vehicle dynamics is still handled by the Manettino switch found on the driver’s steering wheel.
Next, the aerodynamic features can be seen on the body of the 488 GTB, resembling an evolved version of the 458 Italia. It’s a tricky business to balance out low drag with high downforce but Ferrari has managed to do exactly that in the new car. Drag coefficient stands at 1.67, a record for a road-homologated Ferrari but at the same time, downforce is 50% higher than the model it replaces.
The aerodynamic package is comprehensive to say the least. Starting at the front of the car which promptly displays the 488’s central Aero Pillar and double spoiler where the top element managed air flow going into the radiator while the larger, lower section channels air into the lower part of the underbody that incorporates vortex generators to ‘suck’ the car onto the road. At the rear, there is large rear diffuser has flaps which open and close depending on downforce requirements, and a blown spoiler. At 250 km/h, overall downforce generation is 325 kg.
Moving into the cabin, the cockpit is completely driver-focused with all the controls including the lights, wipers, damper settings, and the iconic Manettino switch all located on the steering wheel. Elsewhere, the 488’s interior is luxurious with leather upholstery and seats with aluminium trim pieces located on the dashboard.
Of course as each purchase of a Ferrari is an experience on its own, customers have the option to individualise their 488 GTB through Ferrari’s Tailor Made program which allows customisation of almost every detail of their car from the design of the wheels, to the addition of carbon fibre components, and even the colour of the leather in the cabin. Suffice to say, the variations are endless.
Take a listen to the sound of that Ferrari 488 GTB engine here:


DBKL says citizens can remove illegal obstructions to parking bays

You know those pesky people who reserve parking spaces by placing flower pots, rubbish bins and chairs? Well, certain Kuala Lumpur City Hall officers want you to remove those objects and park there, as they said that drivers should be more proactive when dealing with these kinds of obstructions.

According to a report by The Star, DBKL enforcement officers want people to take
proactive action when dealing with people who illegally reserve parking bays
.

"We don't know who put the items there so we cannot issue a summons," said a DBKL officer who did not want to be named.

"But if a member of the public sees such items being used to reserve a bay, the individual can remove them," said the officer from the Bukit Bintang branch.

If you have concerns as to whether those people who put those objects there will damage your car as retaliation, the officer said not to worry as they "have street cameras in most places, which monitor the areas".

These comments were made off the back of a recent enforcement op, where officers found out that those using old motorcycles, bicycles, scooters, flower pots, rubbish bins and chairs to reserve space won't show their faces or admit the objects belong to them.

The enforcement officers can only take the items away, so it seems that you must take your rights into your own hands if you ever come across this complicated matter.


2022 Hyundai Staria 10-seater Launched - 3 Variants, Lite, Plus and Max  - Priced From RM180k

Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors(HSDM), the authorized distributor of Hyundai in Malaysia today announced the introduction of the 10-seater Staria, a more price-friendly version of the space-ship-inspired MPV.

The Hyundai Staria which was first introduced into the local market back in October 2021 debuted as a premium 7-Seater MPV, but the 10-seater option here brings the price down and adds even more versatility.

The 10-seater has vast improvements and more functionalities in every aspect compared to the outgoing Hyundai Starex, making it ideal for big families, tour operators and businesses.

2022 Hyundai Staria 10-Seater variants and prices

Lite - RM179,888

Plus - RM196,888

Max - RM209,888

Exterior - Staria's futuristic design at a cut down price

Just like the 7-seater, the Staria has an exterior that looks futuristic, inspired by spaceships, but there are a few tweaks here and there that tell you it's not the most premium of Starias.

Things have changed at the front as the 10-seater Staria features a front grille with a different design and is body-coloured. The 10-seater also features different headlamps compared to the 7-seater as they are only equipped with conventional type LED headlamps instead of the sophisticated dual LED headlamps found on the 7-seater.

Luckily, however, the cool wraparound day-time-running lights (DRL) just above the grille and headlights are equipped on all variants, as this is what gives the Staria a menacing look, especially when it's dark. At the rear, there are vertical combination tail lights, but the Lite only features halogen bulbs while the rest are LEDs.

As for wheels, the Lite gets 17" alloy wheels with a more straightforward two-tone design, while the Max gets 18" alloy wheels.

Interior - more versatility as there are 10 seats

Because it's a 10-seater, this is where it differs the most when compared to the 7-seater.

Starting at the front, there is an 8" infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support as well as a fully digital 10.25" meter cluster (4.2"LCD for the Lite). As for speakers, the Lite and Plus only has four of them, but the Max is equipped with two additional tweeters.

There is now a more traditional gear lever instead of buttons for the transmission. The Lite features simpler manual climate controls, but the Max features a dual-zone climate control system.

The seating arrangement at the rear now features seating across four rows in a 2-3-2-3 arrangement. However, the type of materials used for the seats differs depending on the variant. The Lite is equipped with fabric seats, the PLUS is laced with semi-Nappa leather, while the Max gets the full Nappa leather treatment.

The sliding door operation also differs according to variant as the Lite features manual sliding doors while the Plus and Max get powered doors.

Engine - Same engine as the 7-seater

The 10-seater Hyundai Staria is powered by the familiar CRDi 2.2-litre, 4-cylinder, VGT diesel engine as found on the 7-seater and Hyundai Santa Fe. It is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, also just like the other cars. The highest power generated from this engine is 176 hp at 3,800 rpm, which also has a maximum torque of 431 Nm at 1,500 to 2,500 rpm.

Safety

When it comes to safety, the Lite and Plus is not as fully equipped as the 7-seater Staria, but the Max matches the 7-Seater's extensive safety features, featuring Hyundai'sSmartsense suite.The Max comes with six airbags and a host of Hyundai's latest SmartSense advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including:

Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA)

Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)

Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA)

Smart Cruise Control (SCC)

Lane Following Assist (LFA)

Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA)

Safe Exit Assist (SEA)

Colours

There are five colours to choose from, Abyss Black Pearl and Creamy White are available for all three variants, with the Lite adding on a Shimmering Silver metallic option and the Max getting additional Graphite Grey metallic and Moonlight Blue Pearl choices.

Warranty

The 10-seater Staria comes with a two-year/50,000 km warranty. If you want the five-year/300,000 km warranty plus a three-year/50,000 km free service package, you will need to top up the price with another RM10k.