All-New A90 Toyota GR Supra Launched In Malaysia - 1 Variant, From RM568k

UMW Toyota Motors today unveiled the highly anticipated all-new 5th generation A90 Supra, 14 years after its predecessor, the A80 Mk4 Supra was discontinued.

Co-developed with BMW, the all-new Supra, which is essentially a twin of the new BMW Z4, is priced between RM568,000 and RM580,000 on the road without insurance, depending on the exterior colour.

Manufactured alongside the G29 BMW Z4 in Austria by Magna Steyr, the all-new Supra is available in 8 exterior colour options here – White Metallic, Silver Metallic, Ice Grey Metallic, Black Metallic, Prominence Red, Lightning Yellow, Deep Blue Metallic, Matte Storm Grey Metallic.

For the Malaysian market, the all-new Supra only comes in one version, which is the full spec variant powered by BMW’s B58 3.0-litre inline-six Twin Scroll Turbo engine, producing 340 PS and 500 Nm of maximum torque. Paired to the engine is an 8-speed automatic gearbox with paddle shifters, courtesy of ZF.

Thanks to the powertrain package, the all-new Supra is able to sprint from standstill to 100km/h in 4.3 seconds, and clock an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h.

On the exterior, the all-new Supra’s design is inspired a lot by the Toyota 2000 GT (side profile) as well as the Mk4 Supra (front and rear end), with key features like 19-inch wheels, Adaptive LED headlights with LED turn signals, Dual tailpipes, auto-retractable wing mirrors, as well as automatic rain sensing wipers.

Inside, the cabin is almost identical to the G29 Z4, with notable features like black leather upholstery, 8-way power adjustable seats, Smart Entry and Start system, an 8.8-inch touchscreen display with a touchpad remote controller, a 12-speaker JBL audio system, built-in navigation, voice recognition, USB and Bluetooth connectivity, dual zone air conditioning, a heads-up display (HUD), and wireless charging among other features.

As far as safety is concerned, the Supra actually gets an extensive list of features such as Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control, Adaptive High Beam, Rear End Collision Warning, Blind Spot Monitor, Parking Sensors, a reverse camera, 7 airbags, as well as an ISOFIX mount.

That being said, the all-new Supra will also be the first model to be sold via Toyota's GR Garage, a dedicated retail arm which will focus on Toyota’s high-performance and motorsports themed products, in much the same way Mercedes-Benz has AMG Performance Centres at selected dealer locations. These GR Garages will likely be customers touchpoints for those who want to get behind the wheel of a Supra.

Looking for a new Toyota? Find the best deals
here
.


Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia Announces Price Increases To Come In Q1 2016

Seems like there’s only one natural move following the weak performance of the Ringgit against other currencies as of late. Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia has today announced that prices for
Mitsubishi
 vehicles will increase and will take effect during the first quarter of 2016.
The economic climate that Malaysia is weathering at the moment makes it tough on the auto industry as a lot of their dealings for parts, logistics, and labour are conducted in foreign currencies.
While Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) did not disclose much during the announcement, they did reveal that the estimated increases were to be between 2 and 7 percent depending on the model.
“Despite all adversities, rest assured that MMM will continue to offer attractive on-going deals and promotions for our customers. MMM remains committed to provide all Malaysians with a pleasant ownership and value-for-money cars,” said Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MMM, Mr. Yang Won-Chul.
MMM also added that should the Ringgit start to appreciate to a more valuable standpoint, the company will once again review its pricing structure.
Let’s hope that upturn comes sooner rather than later.


Nissan Uses Old School Tech To Stop Smartphone Distraction

Smartphone distraction behind the wheel is a cause of accidents globally. Nissan plans to put a stop to smartphone distraction with the introduction of its new Signal Shield.
Nissan's new Signal Shield concept dates back to the Faraday Cage, an invention that was first seen back in 1830. They fitted the Signal Shield into the armrest of a Nissan Juke.
When a phone is placed inside the specially-designed Signal Shield, cellular, Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity will be blocked off, effectively eliminating smartphone distraction behind the wheel. When needed, the driver can open the armrest to allow the phone to receive signal.
Despite disconnecting all forms of wireless connectivity, Nissan says that users can still connect their devices via the AUX or USB port to the car's infotainment system. Signal Shield does not affect the phone's wired operations.

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Alex Smith, managing director, Nissan Motor GB Ltd said, "Mobile phone use at the wheel is a growing concern across the automotive industry, and indeed society, particularly with the high number of "pushed" communications, such as texts, social media notifications and app alerts that tempt drivers to reach for their devices. The Nissan Signal Shield concept presents one possible solution for giving drivers the choice to remove all smartphone distractions while driving. This is about delivering more control at the wheel, not less. Some drivers are immune to the activity of their smartphone, but for those who struggle to ignore the beeps and pings, this concept provides a simple solution in this very "connected" world we live in."


Cycle & Carriage Bintang Has Largest Network Of Certified Repair Facilities, 100% Score from Daimler

Cycle & Carriage Bintang, a name synonymous with Mercedes-Benz vehicles in Malaysia, now has the largest network of Daimler AG certified body and paint (B&P) repair facilities.
These official Mercedes-Benz Body and Paint Centres are strategically located in Bukit Tengah in Penang, Batu Caves in the Klang Valley and Johor Bahru in Johor, providing customers across the west coast of the Peninsular with peace of mind and confidence when restoring their Mercedes-Benz vehicles, which includes a two-year repair warranty.
Cycle & Carriage Bintang Batu Caves was first awarded the certification by Daimler AG in 2012. Recently, the Batu Caves Service Centre, which is also the largest covering over 45,000 sq ft with 22 B&P work bays, achieved a perfect score of 100% after a re-audit last November, recognized by Daimler AG as one of the highest-ranking centres for collision repairs in the world.
The service centres in Bukit Tengah and Johor Bahru were awarded ‘Centre of Competence’ certification by Daimler AG after extensive facility and equipment upgrading process, together with specialized technical training and service process enhancement for the employees.
“In everything we do, we have our customers in mind at all times. The ‘Centre of Competence’ certification is an assurance that all Cycle & Carriage body and paint repairs are carried out according to the stringent global specifications set by Mercedes-Benz. Having three of our body and paint facilities awarded the certification is an impressive achievement. It reflects the quality of our after-sales teams who deliver our signature first class service to customers every step of the way,” said Cycle & Carriage Bintang CEO, Wilfrid Foo.
Technicians undergoing training at Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Training Academy
The certification process involves a stringent evaluation on a workshop’s equipment both body repair and paint areas, auxiliary material, repair process and administration practices. Every highly skilled employee undergoes rigorous and comprehensive training programmes at the Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Training Academy.
The Bukit Tengah service centre spans over 14,000 sq ft with five B&P work bays, while the larger 32,000 sq ft facility in Johor Bahru has 14 B&P work bays.
CEO Wilfrid Foo adds, “Cycle & Carriage Bintang employees are technical experts trained by Daimler AG to ensure every Mercedes-Benz vehicle we receive is restored to its original specifications. We have invested in our facilities and people to ensure we are all well-equipped and skilled, according to global standards, to provide our customers peace of mind. We go the extra mile to further enforce this confidence by offering Cycle & Carriage Bintang customers a two-year repair warranty.”
Cycle & Carriage Bintang operates Malaysia’s largest network of Mercedes-Benz dealership, with 12 Autohouses nationwide, including 10 After-Sales Autohauses. The company also recently received the highest Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) rating for after-sales from Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.


The Kia HabaNiro Is An All-Electric, All-Wheel Drive Concept

Yes, we get it. SUVs are more important than sedans. This has been a message that manufacturers have been hammering home, motorshow after motorshow as they roll out concept SUVs - and the market agrees with them, or rather they're simply giving the people what the people want. The latest to join this burgeoning group of concept SUVs is something called the HabaNiro - by Kia.
It's an all-electric (naturally), all-wheel drive (but of course), four seater concept vehicle that's shaped a little like a modern dune buggy. Kia Motors America unveiled this vision of the future, which was imagined and created in Kia's California design studio, in Manhattan, New York of all places. Kia is also coining a term known as ECEV, or "Everything Car Electric Vehicle". What they're basically trying to say is that the HabaNiro is so versatile, it can't be placed in any particular category.
Technical specifications on the car is as you'd expect with a concept: brief. This theoretical car can go a theoretical range of over 480 theoretical kilometres, which Kia is called AER (All Electric Range). We find that a little strange seeing as it's an all-electric car, so the range being all-electric should be a bit of a given.
The inside is as concept car as you would expect. The entire interior is an intense shade of Lava Red, revealed by butterfly doors at the open. There's a minimalist vibe to the control layouts, as well as a Heads-Up Display and a large interactive touchpad display, as well as a system that lets you move settings and options around the various screens of the car. There is also a trick ventilation system and ambient lighting, both of which seem to need their own unique acronyms.
Perhaps the most interesting of all is the proposed level-five autonomous driving, which would make this a lovely commuting car for the city. This level of autonomous driving allows users to rest and relax, allowing for conversations and work that needs to be completed. There's even a Real-time Emotion Adaptive Driving system that essentially optimizes and personalizes cabin space to a driver's needs, The system is so advanced that it can even detect when you want to look in the rear view, and changes the view to a 180-degree field of vision feed from a rear view camera.
Kia, for some bizarre reason, is saying that you shouldn't write off the HabaNiro as being just a concept car - citing both the Stinger and the Telluride as an examples of concepts coming to life after excellent public reception. That being said, as we're seeing with other manufacturers, the transition to electric vehicle production can be a tricky and arduous process, and perhaps Kia isn't quite ready to make that seismic shift.


The First EV BMW M Model – Genius Or Blasphemy?

BMW are at the cusp of getting to market their first-ever all-electric ‘M’ –
dubbed the i4 M50
. BMW ‘M’, which abbreviates Motorsports, has been responsible for the most powerful coupes, sedans and sportscars bearing the BMW badge starting with
the M1 in 1978
. However, the BMW M division is first and foremost, known for their high-powered internal combustion engines, which currently range from 365hp in the
BMW M2
 all the way to a whopping
627hp in the BMW M5 CS
.

The i4 M50 then brings with it not just an exciting new car (which, let’s face it, you are probably as excited about it as we are), but a paradigm shift at BMW M in preparation for the electric onslaught that is widely already here. Seemingly every day – a new manufacturer announces some new electrified model in hopes of capturing a huge new market (because under 5 percent of global vehicle sales currently consists of EVs and plug-in hybrids – making it a huge growth opportunity) and at the very least, to tell the world that they’re ready for it.

The i4 hoo-haa…

It’s also a very big deal for BMW – as they put it, “All-electric mobility (with the i4) reaches the very heart of the BMW brand. The
BMW i4
 is the brand’s first electric vehicle focused squarely on driving dynamics. Locally emission-free driving pleasure, compromise-free premium quality and customer-oriented individualisation come to the traditional core of the midsize segment for the first time.”

Moreover, they need the i4 to succeed because the company has already stated that
50 percent of vehicles it sells will be electrified by 203
0
, and added that approximately 90 percent of its model range will be offered with electrified drivetrains by 2023.

Put simply, why they need to do this is simply because of increasingly tight CO2 regulations across Europe, China and the US – their biggest markets. An EV that emits 0 mg/km at its “tailpipe” is the most perfect work around the regulations, (even PHEVs are a stopgap measure), plus the relative simplicity of EVs also means that companies that can achieve economies of scale faster, will turn a profit quicker than the rest, and sell cheaper cars.

It's pure economics – sadly

With that said, it is one thing for a BMW that needs to be electric to gain access to big markets – quite the other when BMW slaps the moniker of its high-performance division on the boot of a car that doesn’t even make so much as a blip on a decibel meter when it starts to move.

So have BMW gone a step too far? Have they managed to dilute its last frontier of brand character (which owes so much to its die-hard and affluent global following) in the name of profits? On the other hand, have they put their best foot forward and taken M into the next generation of performance machines – while still holding true to the principles that make any M car so fantastic to own and drive.

First, what makes the i40 M50 an M car…

In short, what makes a BMW M car great is its sublime balance of power and handling.

While the i40 M50 will not offer the auditory drama of a turbocharged inline-six ‘S58’ engine screaming at 7,000rpm, it does offer a lot of power. 469hp to be exact, before you hit the Sport Boost feature, which scrambles the electric motors for a maximum system output of 536hp and 795 Nm of torque, this blitzes the M3’s numbers by 65hp and torque by nearly 245Nm – so we know it’ll be quick, very quick.

Courtesy of two electric motors, one on each axle, the new i4 M50 features an electric all-wheel-drive system that can optimize traction and handling stability by adjusting the drive torque, without the need for traction control intervention – making it more predictable.

Elsewhere, the in-house developed near-actuator wheel slip limitation feature, which in combination with the electric all-wheel-drive, enables the car to maintain optimum traction in a straight line or in the bends. The system can vary torque between the front and rear axles; and is set up in the BMW i4 M50 for optimum, rear-biased distribution of drive torque.

The i4’s
‘fifth generation’ eDrive platform
 and electrical architecture integrates the drive system in which the electric motor, transmission and power electronics sit in a single housing. This keeps things compact and the weight centred near the wheels, while the 83.9kWh high-voltage battery is bolted directly into the body structure making it an integral member to further increase the car’s torsional rigidity.

The BMW i4 comes with a bracing package for enhancing body rigidity at the rear and with integral shock tower-to-front end struts at the front, the i4 M50 additionally gets a brace fitted between the two strut towers that help to give the i4 M50 greater steering precision. In addition, also standard on the i4 M50 is adaptive M suspension, which allows the driver to adjust the shock setting to suit the driving situation.

Therefore, while it offers boatloads of power and torque – as most powerful EVs do, handling and chassis balance have also been at the centre of the car’s development like other M cars, and it will prove a key separator between buying the i4 M50, and say a Tesla Model 3. In most of their press information – it is plainly obvious that BMW M have benchmarked the i4 M50 against the
M3
 – which is possibly the quintessential benchmark in terms of handling, power and lightness.

Therefore, to be called an M car it must first feel and perform like an M car (especially on track), and though it is early times - the i4 M50 does seem like it has the props to do just that.

Why not go down the Hybrid route first?

Well, this seems like a perfect intermediary step, and BMW’s M’s arch-rival Mercedes AMG has already chosen to go down that route. The
800hp 2022 Mercedes-AMG Hybrid GT 73e 4-Door Coupe
 and mammoth AMG Project One are the earliest examples of how hybrid and motorsports technology can be brought together effectively. And, it has been reported that AMG’s longstanding ‘63’ engine cars might take on a
2.0-litre hybrid with power to rival the current turbocharged V8s
.

While we think what Mercedes-AMG is doing is nothing short of brilliant, it remains to be seen if their customers will gravitate to the hybrid versions of their highest performance cars. However, it does solve the interim problem of driving range and charge times. Time will tell because as much as M car drivers have a taste for the track, a larger majority enjoy driving their M cars on back roads or longer journeys – this, at least for now, will be a hard sell for the i4 M50.

That’s not to say that BMW might not already have an ace up their sleeve with a hybrid propulsion for their M cars, and with the largest portfolio of M models ever, there’s pretty much an M car for any type of buyer.

Conclusion

We may be quick to say the i40 M50 will not offer the same character as a conventionally powered M car, and that might be true to some extent when you remove the auditory drama of the engine, but we must not forget, BMW M has always been in the business of speed. At its core, BMW M makes fast cars go even faster, and they do this with talent (applied from motorsports) that makes them so manageable, intuitive, and enjoyable to drive.

If you checked out our earlier feature on how
BMW’s kidney grille has evolved with time
 – you would begin to understand that change especially in the premium automotive world, is constant, and failure to evolve makes you a victim of your own hubris.

BMW understands this well and in our opinion, we think they have moved positively in the right step with the i4 M50.

The i4 gives BMW M a venerable testbed to apply their engineering principles and spur BMW’s tech salvo forwards and that is no bad thing. And with the ever-growing EV infrastructure, it’s only a matter of time before the word M comes to represent a whole new genre of fast cars.


DBKL Dan MIROS Bakal Perkenal Had Laju 30km/j, 50km/j Di Kuala Lumpur

Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur (DBKL) dan
Institut Penyelidikan Keselamatan Jalan Raya Malaysia (MIROS)
 sedang berusaha memperkenalkan
had laju 30 dan 50km/j
 di kawasan terpilih di Kuala Lumpur tidak lama lagi.

Perkara tersebut diumumkan susulan kunjungan hormat Pengerusi MIROS, Suret Singh dan Ketua Pengarahnya Khairil Anwar Abu Kassim ke atas Datuk Bandar Kuala Lumpur, Mahadi Che Ngah. Kerjasama kedua-dua badan ini dilakukan bagi mengenal pasti jalan raya di mana had laju berkenaan boleh dilaksanakan sebagai langkah keselamatan.

*Kredit foto: MIROS

Menerusi hantaran yang dibuat oleh Suret di akaun Twitter beliau baru-baru ini, perkara itu bukan hanya sekadar idea kerana institusi berkenaan akan bekerjasama dengan DBKL untuk menjadikan perancangan itu satu realiti.

Tambahnya, perbincangan tersebut berkisar mengenai kemungkinan perkongsian rekod dan data antara DBKL serta MIROS termasuk
rakaman kamera litar keselamatan tertutup (CCTV)
 bagi kesalahan trafik yang dilakukan di ibu negara.

Ketika ini, MIROS sudah berada dalam peringkat akhir bagi merangka cadangan untuk memperkenalkan had laju standard 30km/j bagi kawasan kediaman dan penduduk, bandar serta kampung sebagai sebahagian daripada pelan keselamatan jalan raya kebangsaan 2022-2030.

Khairil Anwar berkata, had laju itu akan membolehkan orang ramai menguruskan keselamatan dengan lalu lintas jalan raya, selain mewujudkan kawasan yang selamat, sihat, hijau dan sesuai didiami. Tambahnya, institusi itu akan membabitkan pihak berkepentingan termasuk Jabatan Kerja Raya (JKR), Jabatan Pengangkutan Jalan (JPJ), pihak berkuasa tempatan, polis dan pihak berkuasa lain yang berkaitan.

Keputusan ini dibuat setelah Malaysia menjadi antara negara yang meratifikasi Deklarasi Stockholm berhubung keselamatan jalan raya, dalam persidangan menteri global yang diadakan pada Feb 2020.

Seramai 80 menteri yang menghadiri persidangan itu telah berikrar untuk mengurangkan sehingga separuh bilangan kematian jalan raya menjelang 2030 selain mencadangkan had laju 30km/j sebagai norma baharu di kawasan di jalan lazim digunakan bersama oleh penunggang motosikal, pemandu kereta, pejalan kaki dan penunggang basikal.

Malah pada May tahun lalu, Ketua Pengarah Pertubuhan Kesihatan Sedunia (WHO) Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus telah menggesa kerajaan di seluruh dunia supaya segera mengguna pakai had laju 30kph di kawasan bandar.

Cucu Nelson Mandela, Zoleka Mandela yang juga merupakan duta Duta Inisiatif Kesihatan Kanak-kanak Global berkata, setiap hari seramai 3,000 kanak-kanak cedera atau terbunuh di jalan raya serata dunia. Beliau berkata kemalangan tersebut adalah krisis yang dibuat oleh manusia dan boleh dicegah sepenuhnya.

Tidak dinafikan, perancangan tersebut memang berkesan dari segi keselamatan. Persoalannya, adakah pelaksanaan had laju baharu di sebahagian kawasan terpilih di ibu negara tidak lama lagi boleh dipatuhi dan diikuti oleh pengguna jalan raya di negara ini?


Mercedes-Benz To Build PHEV Variants Of A-Class And B-Class

During a press conference at the 2019 Geneva International Motor Show, it was revealed that plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) variants of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class and B-Class will be presented this year. This information came from Ola Källenius, head of Mercedes-Benz' R&D department and the successor to the position of CEO later this year.
According to an article by
MercedesBlog
, these variants will be pushing 200 hp with over 400 Nm of torque, with a minimum electric-only range of 50 km. The official information and technical specifications have yet to be released, but inside sources say that they will be using the turbocharged 1.3-litre 4-cylinder engine (found in the
all-new A200
) with 163 hp and an electric motor that supplies 90 hp.
What's more interesting that these PHEV models will be all-wheel drive, with the engine driving the front wheels and the electric motor driving the rear - as is the case with a lot of hybrid vehicles these days. These cars will be sold under the EQ Power sub brand, and should be a nice counterpart to the gas-guzzling AMG variants.


Frankfurt 2015: Audi E-Tron Quattro Concept Teased Further Prior To Debut

Audi
 has released two new teaser images of the e-tron quattro concept prior to its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show. This adds on to the
initial preview released back in August
 and more recently, a
video

sketch of the concept
.
The images now give us a look at the actual vehicle in the metal although most of it is still under wraps. Nonetheless, the first teaser gives us a glimpse of the e-tron quattro’s front-end with the prominent four-ringed badge located on a chromed grille. The ‘e-tron’ lettering is also located on the bumper while sharp headlights as those seen on recent Audi introductions like the
TT
 and
A4
 can be roughly seen beneath the covers.
Onto the second teaser where we see the rear-end of the concept, where the black lower body panels are reminiscent as those on Audi’s allroad models. Slim taillights with aggressive slits can also be seen along with blade-like five-spoke silver wheels.
We’ve already been told that the e-tron quattro concept will feature the latest modular longitudinal platform (MLB) as its underpinnings and that the vehicle’s proportions sit between the
Q5
 and
Q7
, possibly hinting at a new Q6.
Powering the concept are three electric motors located between the axles (two driving the rear, one driving the front), powered by a large lithium-ion battery. The body’s sleek design is said to have a drag coefficient value of just 0.25, a supposed leading number in the SUV world.
More details along with the vehicle’s final outlook will be revealed during the Frankfurt Motor Show.


Kia Teases All-New B-Segment Stonic Crossover

Kia Motors Corporation have revealed for the first time, the sketches of its all-new B-Segment crossover, called the Stonic. The Stonic gets its name from combining the words ‘Speedy’ and ‘Tonic’, which refers to the first and last note in the musical scale.
The Stonic is said to be inspired by the form of larger Kia SUVs, such as the
Sportage
 and
Sorento
, and aims to offer buyers with a striking yet elegant SUV design.
An interesting design highlight of the Stonic is its sweeping roofline and uniquely designed roof rack which adds a sporty look to the vehicle. The tail lamp graphics are also meant to give the Stonic a rather sporty and premium appearance.
On the inside, Kia has kept things simple with straight lines and smooth panel surfaces. The focal point of the interior is the ‘floating’ HMI (human-machine interface) screen which will integrate the car’s infotainment options.
There is no word yet from Kia regarding the powertrain options for the Stonic. However, Kia’s
B-Segment Rio model
 is offered with three petrol engines, ranging from a 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder turbocharged engine, and two naturally aspirated engines available in 1.25-litre, and 1.4-litre displacements. A 1.4-litre turbodiesel is also offered in certain markets.
The Stonic is scheduled to go on sale in certain markets in the second half of 2017. Kia claim, the Stonic will be the most customisable Kia ever.


This Hydrogen Fuelled Toyota Corolla Sounds Badass!

As we move into the era of mass adoption of
battery electric vehicles
, the purists among us lament the death of the exhaust note. I am among one of you but today Toyota presents us with a hydrogen-fuelled (read clean fuel) Corolla that has a nice bassy rumble! Rejoice!

Speaking of exhaust notes, did you know that the
Porsche Taycan
 comes with a feature called the 'Electric Sport Sound'. It is an option that buyers can opt for especially those who need that something extra, that something more aural.

The
Taycan
 is a thoroughbred sports car, through and through. There is no doubt about its credentials but it does lack that audio presence. That electric whine is quite anti-climatic but when you're going that fast, does it even matter? That's for you to ponder.

For a certain section of the affluent population Porsche provides the 'Electric Sport Sound' feature that adds a bit more of a rumble to that EV whine. To create that pretense of something more common, the illusion of a howling flat-six or the high-revving symphony of a V8, even if it's only for the driver and passengers inside the car.

The above just goes to prove that even Porsche understands how important the sound of an exhaust note is, especially given their heritage. Remember the Porsche Carrera GT?

In the spirit of clean driving and a notable exhaust note, we bring you the wizards from the land of The Rising Sun. Toyota has managed to marry a combustion engine running on hydrogen, producing only water as a byproduct yet with an exhaust note that has us excited for future updates!

So take a moment, put your headphones on, crank up the volume and listen to the sound of a hydrogen-fuelled Toyota Corolla. Ain't it something?!

This work-in-progress prototype runs on a 1.6-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine, deriving its juice from renewable energy produced at the Fukushima Hydrogen Energy Research Field.

According to test driver, Hiroaki Ishiura, "It's not as different (from a regular petrol-powered vehicle) as I had expected. It feels like a normal engine. (If I wasn't informed) I'd probably think that this is one normal engine."

This particular Corolla Sport will also be tested at a 24-hour endurance race as part of the Super Taikyu Series. This is all obviously very interesting news for fans of the Corolla as only a few days ago we wrote about the possibility of a
GR Corolla
 with AWD, a 300PS version of GR Yaris' three-cylinder engine.


Petronas Responds After 20 Vehicles Brokedown Nearby Its Station

A strange incident on the Besraya Highway this morning left many vehicles stranded at the road shoulder.
It has now been revealed that these vehicles had just left the nearby Petronas refuelling station and it is believed that contaminated fuel entered the vehicle fuel delivery systems and thus render them inoperable.
Petronas has since been in contact with approximately 20 owners of the affected vehicles and will compensate them accordingly.
Based on the company’s initial assessment, there seems to have been a “product mishandling” that only happened at this particular refuelling station.
This Petronas Station Solaris Besraya is now temporarily closed as the company continues with their investigations. The company assures that other Petronas refuelling stations are not affected.
“We take full responsibility for this serious matter and we apologise once again,” said the company in ending its media statement.


New 2015 Renault Fluence Debuts In Malaysia – Two Variants, From RM109k

TC Euro Cars, the official distributor of
Renault
 vehicles in Malaysia, has just launched the facelifted 2015 Renault
Fluence
 C-segment sedan. It now comes in two variants – the lower range Expression and the higher-end Dynamique.

Prices start from RM 112,178.10 for the Expression and RM 123,481.97 for the Dynamique. All prices are inclusive of GST and insurance. By comparison, the pre-facelift Fluence was available in a only a single variant and was priced at RM115,000.00 without insurance.

The refreshed Fluence here largely features cosmetic updates over the
2014 model
, with its powertrain and interior design largely left intact. Here is a quick look at what’s new for the 2015 model.

Buyer’s Guide:

Like the outgoing Fluence, it has some established competition from the likes of the
Volkswagen

Jetta
,
Honda

Civic
,
Ford

Focus
,
Mazda

3
, and
Toyota

Corolla Altis
 but offers a European experience at a price point that’s well under the Jetta’s RM135k.

The Fluence is built on the Renault/Nissan C-platform and is locally assembled at the Tan Chong Motor Assemblies plant in Segambut. It offers 2.0-litre engine churning out 143hp, ample interior space, high equipment and comfort levels, and comprehensive after sales services.

KEY SPECS: 2015 Renault Fluence 2.0 CVT, Expression and Dynamique.

Price:
RM112,178.10 – Expression, RM123,481.97 – Dynamique.

Engine: 2.0-litre 16-valve four-cylinder

Transmission: XTronic CVT

Power: 143hp at 6,000rpm

Torque: 195Nm at 3,700rpm

Consumption: 7.7 litres per 100 km (manufacturer’s claim, combined European driving cycle)

Performance:

Here’s how the Fluence 2.0 CVT stacks up for power against its key rivals:

Honda Civic 1.8 i-VTEC:
141PS, 174Nm

Toyota Corolla Altis 2.0:
145PS, 187Nm

Mazda 3 2.0:
162hp, 210Nm

Ford Focus 2.0:
170PS, 202Nm

Volkswagen Jetta 1.4 TSI:
160PS, 240Nm

For the Malaysian market, Renault has also fitted the Fluence with a transmission oil cooler for its Xtronic CVT to better handle driving at high speed for extended periods. Together with the use of a timing chain instead of a belt, this powertrain package is meant to offer better durability.

The facelift model is differentiated by a new front end design featuring Renault’s floating grille and LED daytime running lights. Behind, there is a new tail light cluster and a new rear bumper.

Variants:

Expression:
 The base Expression model comes with 6 airbags, electronic stability program (ESP), cruise control,  ISOFIX mounts for child seats, fabric interior, automatic wipers and headlamps, halogen projector headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic air conditioning, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, Bluetooth, USB paired to a 6-speaker audio system. Leather upholstery is an optional extra for the Expression costing RM4,000.

It is covered by a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty with unlimited mileage (without 5 inFluence customer care privilege).

Dynamique:
 The higher-end Dynamique model adds LED daytime running lights, LED tail lights, leather upholstery, and Renault’s signature 5 inFluence customer care privilege. This includes, 5 years/100,000 km free maintenance inclusive of labour and parts, free pickup service and a courtesy car should your Fluence needs to stay in the workshop for more than 48 hours due to any unavailability of parts.


XPANDER Helps Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia Reach Historical High

The Mitsubishi XPANDER and Triton helped Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia reach a historical high!

It seems the introduction of the
Mitsubishi XPANDER
 has done wonders for Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) as they have recorded a historical high in sales performance of 4,156 vehicles sold for Financial Year 2020 Q4 (January – March 2021).

A 135 percent increase in sales compared to Financial Year 2019 Q4 (January- March 2020), the historical high period has also allowed MMM to declare that they are in the top three non-national brands for three consecutive months.

As we briefly mentioned before, the substantial sales achievement is attributed to the
strong reception
 of the new Mitsubishi XPANDER, which has received more than 9,300 bookings since its launch in November 2020. The company have since delivered 2,742 units to new owners.

"Due to the overwhelmingly positive response for the new XPANDER, we are progressing to increase our production volume to cater for higher production capacity to fulfil all booking demands," said Tomoyuki Shinnishi, Chief Executive Officer of MMM.

The company also announced a 51 percent increase in sales with 11,554 vehicles sold for Financial Year 2020 (April 2020 – March 2021) compared to the same period in Financial Year 2019 (April 2019- March 2020). MMM's Financial Year 2020 ended on 31 March 2021.

The company's volume seller,
Mitsubishi Triton
, was also exceptionally well received by Malaysians and recorded an incremental sales performance of 32 percent, with 7,568 units sold in FY20 compared to FY19. This Triton incremental sales performance will probably increase even further this year as the new Triton will be launched imminently.

"Despite the challenging market situation, MMM closed FY20 on a high with the main drivers for volume growth - the Triton pick-up truck and the new XPANDER seven-seater crossover. Backed by our committed dealers, we have expanded our sales outlets to Temerloh, Kuala Selangor and
Petaling Jaya
 last financial year. More than 60 percent of our dealers have upgraded their outlets for a better customer experience. This FY21, we will continue to expand our dealer network to serve our customers better in terms of sales and after-sales," said Shinnishi.

Shinnishi also thanked MMM's customers for their incredible loyalty to the brand. "In return for this strong support, we prioritize all our customers' needs by introducing a seamless
digitalization
 sale and
after-sales
 experience with the introduction of Test Drive 2U, MITSUBISHI CONNECT mobile application as well as the newly launched
Mitsubishi Online Showroom
. With this, we persevere to push forward and to remain optimistic in our new financial year, in terms of growing our sales while maintaining a dedicated after-sales service."

Here's a walk-around of the all-new Mitsubishi XPANDER:


Singaporeans Furious At TNG - Cards Deactivated, Money Lost, No Refunds

It had only been months into 2022 that the international borders with Singapore
had opened back up
, having been closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic since early 2020. That’s a period of around 2 years - a little more, in fact.

That specific duration is important as that period of inactivity means that a
Touch ’n Go card
 will be deactivated and its balance within forfeited. This is the crunch that Singaporeans are unhappy about, having topped up a healthy balance only to dig up the card again to re-enter Malaysia and find out that it’s now void.

Pre-COVID OK, After COVID TNG Card Mati

According to
The Straits Times
, it is estimated that if 50% of the car owners in Singapore have driven to Malaysia, there would be some 300,000 holders of now-deactivated TNG cards due to inactivity from the border closure.

It’s also fair to guess that many of them are not aware of this, hitting an impasse at the nearest tolled highway after crossing into Johor.

Should TNG extend the validity of these cards and/or the grace period of the stored value within to maybe 3 years or more? That said, on their official website FAQ page, no mention is made of a 2 year inactivity clause, only citing its 10 year shelf life upon registration.

The obvious response to this predicament is, of course, just to get a new card, especially since it’s the most straightforward way
to pay for highway tolls
.

Trouble is that getting a hold of Touch ’n Go cards have been a persistent problem since the introduction of the
‘Enhanced’ new generation NFC-enabled cards
. Malaysians already face the issue of scarce availability and opportunistic scalpers (Shopee resellers, for example) that drain the supply before most of us hear about a new batch being in stock.

Making matters worse, Singaporeans also seem to be facing a unique issue of the older ‘classic’ TNG cards routinely being sold out at the usual retailers - petrol stations and convenience stores such as 7-Eleven - in areas close to the border on the Malaysian side.

With card holders furious and demanding refunds for monies lost due to an arbitrary and poorly communicated policy, Touch ’n Go’s social media pages have been bombarded by complaints from motorists from both sides of the causeway.

"Refund Being Processed" by TNG

A consistent gripe here that TNG seems unable or unwilling to process those refunds and are unresponsive to enquiries, either through social platforms or email.
The Straits Times
 had also not received reply to their own line of inquiry.

Mr Lai, speaking to the newspaper, said: “They seem to put up a lot of needless procedural barriers in the refund process. I don’t understand why they can’t simply reactivate the dormant cards…”

“What is more disturbing is that Touch ‘n Go allows deactivated cards to be topped up […] It seems devious,” he added, mentioning that 2 of his 5 cards were successfully topped up in April when the borders reopened, but of course were not allowed past the toll booth.

TNG clearly has their work cut out for them here, rectifying the result of neglect at not having a clearly defined/communicated deactivation/refund policy and streamlined process to recover any lost card balance.

The company appears to have been taking a slow case-by-case approach, evidenced by another Singaporean, Ms Y.L Heng, who said: “It took over two months. They kept saying the refund was being processed and when they finally did the refund, there was no e-mail notification,”

“I feel that you have to be persistent. It’s part and parcel of getting things done.” TNG certainly aren’t giving these foreign visitors a positive impression of Malaysian business practices.


Toyota To Unveil Gazoo Super Sport Concept At Tokyo Auto Salon

Toyota will be unveiling a new Super Sport Concept at the 2018 Tokyo Auto Salon, happening from 12 to 14 January.
No, in case you’re wondering, the new Super Sport Concept is not the Supra you’ve been hoping for.
Instead, the company said that it has taken “technological feedback acquired through motorsports activities is incorporated” into the new Super Sport Concept.
The lone teaser image released by Toyota shows a silhouette of a car that appears to be inspired by their World Endurance Championship (WEC) TS050 Hybrid.
Could Toyota be introducing a new sports car based on the TS050 Hybrid, or maybe the Super Sport Concept, as the name suggests, be just another concept car.
Apart from the Super Sport Concept, Toyota will also be showcasing the 86 GR and Vitz GRMN.


Review: 2013 Toyota Vios 1.5G - The Winning Formula Gets A New Look

Like the two generations of Vios before it, the third generation of Toyota’s all-new Vios doesn’t boast of any cutting edge features, but that’s OK because the vast majority of buyers shopping for a Vios are only looking for a fuss-free, practical car that doesn’t costs too much and will reliably get them from point A to point B, without losing too much in depreciation before selling it off – all of which are the Vios’s forte.
Specifications for 2013 Toyota Vios 1.5G
Price: RM90,113 (on the road with insurance)
Engine: 1.5-litre four-cylinder VVT-I, 1NZ-FE
Power: 109 PS at 6,000 rpm
Torque: 141 Nm at 4,200rpm
Transmission: 4-speed automatic
Safety: Dual airbags, ABS with EBD and BA, ISOFIX (2x, rear)
Origin: Locally assembled, Shah Alam
Overview
The Vios is a compact family sedan that competes in the so-called B-segment market, which is also populated by models like the
Honda City
,
Nissan Almera
, Ford Fiesta Sedan and Volkswagen Polo Sedan.
Exterior
For years ,the Vios has been an anti-thesis to the idea that “looks will sell”, looks hasn’t always been the Vios strong card, the first looked unimaginative, and the last one earned itself the “Dugong” nickname in local popular culture. And yet, nothing seems to stop this humble little sales leviathan from steamrolling everything in its path.
The new one however,looks far more interesting, as if they tossed the design of its predecessor out the window and started afresh.
And what a fresh new look Toyota’s designers havebestowed upon the new Vios; - it now bears a strong resemblance to the sophisticated European Toyotas rather than the drab looking South East Asian varieties.
It isn’t just the lines that give it a more sleek appearance, its overall length has grown by 110mm to 4,410mm, with a 10mm (front-rear couple distance) increase in the Vios' already generous cabin space, while the roofline has been extended by 15mm and now features a curvaceous double-bubble shape.
It isn’t all looks though, Toyota says the new roof is not only lighter, but improves airflow, and reduces engine noise and vibrations in the cabin. Underneath, the underbody has been flattened to improve airflow, all of which contributes to sleeker shape with a drag coefficient of 0.28Cd (down from its predecessor’s 0.29Cd), which allows the car to cut through the air easier.
Grafted next to the wing mirrors and the side of the rear tail lights are tiny fin-like indentations known as aero stabilising fins, which causes air vortexes to form behind and sort of squeeze the car so that it keeps its path straight and more stable at speeds from 40km/h. I’m not certain how much of difference it brings, but at least they have taken the effort to develop such a feature.
Interior
Being an entry-level car, hard plastics are to be expected, but more importantly, it doesn't look cheap. The interior door panels and dashboard even feature faux stitches on the plastic surface, replicating the appearance of a leather-trimmed interior. The idea behind it is laughable, but the final result actually looks very good. Some snickered at this cut-price deception, but most of us were duly impressed by their ingenuity, after all it looks good and to most, that is all that matters.
The beige interior is a bit of a hit and miss for some: I personally don’t mind it, but others have commented that it’s just ghastly. Well, you can always opt for a variant without it (Update – in 2015 the 1.5G’s interior trim colour was changed to black).
The most noticeable change in the interior now is the instrument dials has been shifted from the middle of the dashboard to assume a more normal position from behind the steering wheel. However unlike its predecessor, the instruments are no longer have Optitron back-lighting.
The cabin feels ergonomic to touch and grip, and the seats were a pleasant surprise, if we’re honest. You’ll also be pleased to find the cleverly placed cupholders with utilise the car’s air conditioning vents to keep your drinks cool.
Legroom at the rear has been increased by 75 mm while knee room is 44 mm greater.
Boot space is not class leading, but big enough for its class.
How does it drive?
For a company that is on top of its game, Toyota doesn’t do change. Their formula for success has always been “what isn’t broken, don’t replace it, but make it slightly better”, and it works. Nobody can find further ways to perfect a tried and tested formula like they do.
Underneath its sharp new suit lies the same chassis which under pinned its predecessor. That said Toyota has increased the use of high-tensile steel components in the body structure from 30 per cent to 56 per cent, in turn shaving off between 10 to 30kg, depending on specification.
Chassis rigidity has also been improved with the number of spot welds doubled in certain areas, and the new aerodynamically honed curvaceous double bubble roof is made from thinner metal, but is lighter and yet equally stiff.
Another all-important component that is carried over from its predecessor is the 1NZ-FE 1.5-litre 4-cylinder with a max power output of 109 PS at 6,000rpm and a torque output of 141Nm at 4,200rpm, along with the same 4-speed automatic. This powertrain combo is shockingly entering its 11
th
 year of service in the Vios!
Though similar, Toyota says the engine and transmissions has been made lighter thanks to various redesigned components. Throw in its new aerodynamic honed body and Toyota says the new car has a five per cent improvement in fuel efficiency, not a huge figure, but it will pay its share of the dividends in the long run. No mention of any official fuel consumption figures though.
All said and done, taking the Vios out on a drive is the litmus test to see if all of Toyota’s claimed raft of changes on the Vios has improved the car by any noticeable degree.
Though Toyota talks of a suspension that has been tuned for better high speed stability and reduced body roll, the Vios still pitches about with the undulation of the road.
Most of the time, the ride floats on the road, and is nowhere as settled on the road at high speeds as a Honda City or a Volkswagen Polo Sedan.
The 1.5-litre engine delivers adequate amounts of power, though it isn’t the most refined or smoothest running engine in the market today.
Its automatic transmission may have only four cogs, but it delivers smooth shifts and yet, it is enough to distribute the engine’s meagre power evenly without interrupting its power delivery by having to flip through excessive amounts of gears. So, no complaints there either.
Show it some corners and the Vios prefers to roll and lean through the bends. It isn’t a sharp tool for twisty roads, but beneath those soft springs, the chassis does deliver quite a fair amount of grip, even with the Vios’ 185-width comfort-oriented ContiComfortContact CC5 tyres.
The electric steering on the other hand doesn’t give much in the way of feel, but it is well tuned to be quick in its reaction without being too sensitive or twitchy on long straight roads.
How comfortable is it?
Where the Vios has shown some definite improvement over the predecessor is in the ride comfort and refinement department.
Yes, the ride feels soft and cushy, but it manages to absorb the worst of Malaysian back road bumps and ruts. And with new engine mounts along with new and repositioned insulating materials, driving it also feels so much more serene than before.
There is notably less engine noise intrusion into the cabin, and even less exterior noise to be heard.
The Vios comes with all the features that you do need for your day-to-day items. There is no shortage of storage spaces, and the optional multimedia unit fitted to our test cars has all the connectivity and navigational features that you want.
Though having said that, we did find the multimedia unit’s screen angled in such a way that any images are flushed out by the sunlight. The screen can be electrically tilted, but only upwards, making the situation worse.
Conclusion
The all-new Vios has made some big gains in crucial areas like a fantastic looking body and a quieter cabin. Unfortunately, this is also a case of taking two steps forward and one step back – the all-crucial electronic stability control (or VSC in Toyota’s lingo) is still not available on even the highest specifications TRD Sportivo variant, and while the 4-speed automatic transmission is smooth and reliable, an upgrade is overdue.
This is a car that you will buy for its pretty looking body, its quiet cabin, the hassle free ownership experience, but little else. For the average car buyer looking for a point A to point B car, the Vios is still a good buy. But I do miss the days when Toyota models often exceeded expectations.
Related:
Review: All-New 2014 Honda City - Is It Better Than The Competition?
Review: 2015 Nissan Almera Facelift 1.5L VL - Can A Facelift Lift its Fortunes?


Luckiest man gets squashed by 2 lorries but walks away with almost unscathed

This man has to be the luckiest man on earth as he survived an accident where two semi-trucks squashed his truck beyond recognition.

When it's not your time to leave earth, it's just not your time, and even a couple of lorries smashing your car to a pulp can't stop that.

This is of course in relation to the accident which took place in Oregon recently, where Kaleb Whitby was lucky enough to survive "
semi-trucks
 flattening his Chevy Silverado like a panini press."

Picture credit: Oregonlive

While motorway accidents are not few and far between, the picture of Kaleb stuck in his car after the accident really says it all about how sometimes, your time is just not up yet.

According to oregonlive.com, more than 100 people were involved in a pileup on Interstate 84, about 16 kilometres east of Baker City. The daily reported that black ice, heavy winds, fog and cold weather combined caused the pileup.

Oregon State Police Sgt. Kyle Hove said "I think we're fortunate that there weren't any fatalities here," and his comments are especially true when you see how Kaleb survived the tragedy.

According to the report, Kaleb and his Silverado headed up a slight hill into a curve where he initially decided to pass a semi-truck in front of him, but then thought better of it. The fog was too thick he said, so he backed off.

Picture credit: Oregonlive

When he rounded the curve and started descending, Kaleb saw the semi-truck again -- but this time, it was jackknifed across the interstate. He swerved to the right, but ended up hitting the back end of the trailer. It flipped him around, leaving him disorientated with his passenger side facing oncoming traffic.

Next thing you know, the headlights of an oncoming semi-truck started to fill up his window frame, Kaleb said "I just braced and hoped that everything would be all right."

He prayed, and wondered if it was his time.

It wasn't; fortunately, somehow, Kaleb had survived the collision. Kaleb opened his eyes to the sight of shattered glass and that the steering column was lodged in his right hip. He was upright again and still in the driver's seat.

Picture credit: oregonlive

While this sounds like something minor, the picture of Kaleb stuck in his squashed Silverado proved to be something short of a miracle because somehow, the squashed metal was in perfect shape to keep Kaleb alive.

Not only was Kaleb alive, but after being sent to the hospital for a checkup, Kaleb only needed two band-aids on his right ring finger, proving that even when a couple of trucks tries to squash you, if your time is not up, it's just not your time to leave earth.


Looks Like The PDRM Helang Team Will Not Be Getting A BMW M3 After All, For Now At least!

Looks like the PDRM Helang team will not be getting an upgrade to the BMW M3 after all, that is until PDRM approves of it first!

It would be grand, no to have PDRM cruising our highways in a BMW M3? Well, it might just come true as a clearer picture has now been painted regarding the whole
BMW M3
 police car kerfuffle.

In what seemed like a
circus of events yesterday
 where a bunch of high-end vehicles were spotted wearing the official police livery, it is now clear that those cars were actually commandeered by PDRM for the purpose of testing.

How this came to light is through photos uploaded on the Friends of PDRM Facebook page, where police officials were seen posing with the stickered-up luxury police vehicles in front of the Bukit Aman main entrance.

The photo's caption of 'Cawangan Pengawal Pengiring (CPP) IPK Selangor High Performance Defence' says it all and is believed that all five vehicles will be tested for the use of the IPK Selangor escort division.

Despite being heavily dominated by BMWs (an M3 and two X3s), it seems that a couple of Volkswagen Tiguans will also be part of the crew.

Till there is an official announcement from PDRM, there is also the chance that the cars in question might still be used as a movie prop vehicle, especially when it has been recently announced that 'The Catcher' will have a budget that will break all Malaysian records.

For those of you who are in the dark about The Catcher, the locally soon to be made movie has been said to have a budget of RM50 million, which is set to break several records both 'domestically and internationally' with the intention of boosting the tourism industry in Malaysia, after a heavy hit during this pandemic. With an estimated 500 cars being involved with the movie, PDRM will have to play a presence in the making of the movie though it remains to be seen in what capacity?

In collaboration with Labuan Overseas Holding Berhad, Robotz Car Club, and Hundred Years Popcorn Production Sdn Bhd, The Catcher is a movie that will portray the lifestyle and culture of car modification enthusiasts in Malaysia. The movie follows the story of a talented young village boy who works hard to defeat opponents from all around the world with heavily modified performance supercars.

While the big-budget will definitely make it the most expensive movie ever made in Malaysia, the film could also break a world record for featuring an incredible 500 supercars

throughout
the movie
.

Dato' Sri Jeffrey Teoh, Founder of Robotz, said, "Supercars are loved by everyone, from any stature or background. As supercar junkies, each of us at Robotz has always been inspired by Vin Diesel's and Paul Walker's successful
"Fast & Furious"
 movie franchise, we hope to emulate the brilliance these movies hold. Our involvement in making history through this record-breaking film brings great joy and pride to every single one of us."

All the cars in the movie belong to the Robotz Car Club members, who shall also contribute monetarily in raising funds for the movie. At the press conference which was held on 4 October 2021, Labuan Overseas Holding Berhad signed off a generous RM 2 million to add to the movie's initial kick-off expenditure.

Mr. Burhanudin bin Mohd Yusoff, CEO of Labuan Overseas Holding Berhad, said, "This project is exceptionally interesting. We support this project, not just because it is going to break records but because of its attractive value-added proposition for our potential investors. We are ecstatic about this launch, and we look forward to developing this business as there is massive potential to open up to investment opportunities in other motor vehicle-related industries, directly or indirectly, towards the recovery of our Malaysian economy."

Some of the scenes of the movie may be shot around a newly developed automotive-themed city in
Gurun, Kedah
, site of a proposed 3,000-acre land, teaming up with the Kedah state government's investment arm, Invest Kedah Berhad.

The city will apparently feature globally known sports car branded hotels, a Formula 3 / GT / EV (
Formula E
) race track and drag race strip, vehicle enhancement and modification services, an accredited speed-safety driving academy, and an automotive engineering college; hence being a tourist hub and a desired filming location for international patrons.


Honda Releases Neo Classic Kit For The S660

Car design is driven by a number of different factors, from trends of the time, to manufacturing techniques, and in more recent years - crash safety. That's mostly the reason why you don't see boxy-looking cars these days and why classic-esque cars are harder to come by - mostly because they'll kill pedestrians on impact instead of having them roll up the bonnet. That, and the horrible drag penalty from a flat nose are two of the major reasons we won't see boxy cars making a return.
And then, there's Honda. Well, they've decided to release the Neo Classic kit for their S660 ultra compact roadster, and it lends some old-school styling to the otherwise modern, sharp edged machine that has breathed a little life back into the company's engineering department. The kit was first displayed at the Tokyo Auto Salon back in 2016, but Honda has actually gone ahead and put it into production.
The price for this kit? A hefty ¥1,296,000 (RM 48,361). Yes, you're reading that right: this retro-style body kit costs as much as a Perodua Myvi. For the money, you get a replacement hood, bumpers, deck, fenders, headlights, and so on - but the price is inclusive of installation and painting, so there's some offset there. It's almost the price of the S660 itself, which means you're paying double for a special looking roadster.
But we have to give credit to Honda to even offer such an option for their cars. Most manufacturers wouldn't bother with something so radical, and it can be guaranteed that those who opt for this Neo Classic kit will have an S660 that's more valuable for decades to come - at least until copycats start producing the same items for the relatively limited S660 market.


All-New 2016 Toyota Prius Unveil Coming In September

The fourth incarnation of the
Toyota

Prius
, the first major redesign in about seven years will make its debut next month in Las Vegas. Oddly, exactly when the new car will hit showrooms or even when it will start production is still up in the air.
September 8
th
 will be Toyota unveils the next-generation Prius to the media, according to what spokesperson Ryo Sakai said to
Bloomberg
.
The current Prius hatch was released in 2009 and garnered popularity quickly in its native Japan and internationally, going on to be the most popular hybrid car at that time with over 500,000 sold within its first year on the market.
Lack of updates and increased competition from other hybrid vehicles, however, have mellowed its pace. For example, in the first half of 2015 deliveries dropped in its home market Japan by 31 percent, and then new car is aimed at recapturing consumer interest and to also reduce development costs by 20 percent through shared components, platforms, and powertrains.
It will be one of the first Toyota models to use TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture), the end result of which being that it will lower weight by around 100kg and lead to a lower centre of gravity.
The engine that will accompany the 2016 car will improve on efficiency figures but will also be lighter and more compact while the electric motors have higher power densities than before. A new CVT is also expected to improve economy by 10 percent.
The Prius plug-in hybrid model will continue to be offered, so too will the wireless charging system through a companion conductive pad placed in the owner’s garage or driveway. Still unclear is whether there will be a disparity in battery technology. Is Toyota adopting lithium-ion for all variants or retaining nickel-metal-hydride cells in some.
Earlier this month, a video was posted about a next-gen Prius test car driving around San Francisco, covered nose to tail in full camouflage.


GE15: 20 car lanes available at CIQ for Malaysians from Singapore

The Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine Complex (CIQ) over at the Bangunan Sultan Iskandar (BSI) will open 20 car lanes for
GE15
.

Dedicated to fellow Malaysians to return home from Singapore for the country's
15th general election
, the 20 lanes will be opened for Malaysian-registered cars at the Johor-Singapore border starting on the noon of 18 November 2022 up until the same time on the very next day - voting day.

*Image credit: Bernama

Dedicated lanes for Malaysian-registered cars

The Star
 reports that State Works, Transportation, and Infrastructure committee chairman, Mohamad Fazli Mohamad Salleh, stated "The Road Transport Department (JPJ) has agreed to prepare the dedicated lanes for Malaysian registered cars."

"We advice those returning home to vote to use these lanes. There are three zones that are currently operating at the moment that could be used by any registered cars. For the election, we will dedicate two of the zones, which has a total of about 20 lanes, for Malaysian registered cars," added Fazli.

Inspect your cars before your travels

A good number of Malaysians will be travelling quite a distance to conduct our statutory duties as citizens to vote in the upcoming election and for those who are planning to drive back, making sure that your cars are in tip-top condition is a priority.

We've prepared a basic list of things to inspect or look out for before the journey to ensure that everything is in the safest of conditions. Things like tyre and brake conditions, lights, oil levels, and fluids should be checked. For more info,
CLICK HERE
.


Top 5 Convertibles For Under RM100k

We take a look at some of the coolest convertibles you can buy in Malaysia for under RM100k

There’s nothing quite like driving a convertible is there? As the old adage goes – the sun in your face and the wind in your hair is bound to make any Sunday morning drive all the more enjoyable… even if it means heading down to your nearby
kopitiam
 for a
 tapau
.

Of course, cabriolets or convertibles are considered niche products in hot climates such as ours - where most people think it’s always too hot, or rainy, or dusty to not have a roof over your head. However, if you ask any convertible owner – they’d tell you Malaysia’s a beautiful place to own and drive a convertible. Besides ‘dropping the top’ on cool mornings, one can also do it in the evenings, after a good rain, or if you are driving to a cool place like Cameron Highlands.

So I suppose, it’s a case of different strokes for different folks, but there’s no denying the timeless beauty, and awesome driving experience of a convertible, especially if you have the means to own one.

However, a quick search on Carlist.my reveals an extensive list of convertibles for just under 100k, meaning that you don’t need to be a timber tycoon or a trust fund baby to start looking like a movie star on the roads. Here are five stylish convertibles for a bit more money than a new Toyota Vios.

For this list, we have omitted requirements of conventional financing in the interest of having the coolest convertibles in the relative price range, however, some models will still qualify for financing from most commercial banks. The list is sorted in descending vehicle prices.

Just one disclaimer before we get into the discussion. You will not find a Mazda MX-5 on this list, not for a lack of love for the car – but with good-condition (non-rusty) first-generation (NA) MX-5s getting rarer than hen’s teeth, or otherwise being ludicrously expensive when they do come up for sale, we figured it’s better to collate other convertible models that are more consistent in pricing across the board. If you’re a fan of the latest (ND) MX-5 generation, here are some great examples on
Carlist.my
.

Let’s crack on then…

No. 5: Daihatsu Copen

The tiniest car on this list is also incidentally the most expensive. However, there’s no denying the Copen has its fair share of fans, having been around since the early 2000s. If you’re quite sure what the Copen is, well it’s a trendy 2-seater convertible that conforms to Japanese ‘Kei-car’ regulations which stipulate its size (of 3.4 meters length and 1.8 meters width) and engine size (of 660cc). So, what you end up with is a trendy city car with 'roof down' motoring thrills. Also, note that it has a turbocharged three-cylinder engine mated to a CVT gearbox, and drives like a go-kart. Sometimes, less is more…

No. 4: BMW Z4

BMW’s seminal convertible has built itself a reputation of being edgy yet with a unique identity within the larger BMW range. The Z4, in all generations, have offered powerful engines, sublime power and stellar driving dynamics. The (E89) Z4 is also the only generation which offered a foldable hardtop roof instead of the more traditional textile type ‘soft-tops’ which offered better proofing from the elements and a more rigid shell. The Z4 models available on sale range from the naturally aspirated 2.0-litre turbo ‘20i’ to the naturally-aspirated 2.5-litre 6-cylinder mated to slick-shifting automatic gearboxes – both of which are superb powerplants known for their potent performance and decent fuel economy. This would matter very little though, once that hard-top is folded into the boot revealing its sexy roadster shape, and the exterior elements start to fill your senses. Ask for full-service receipts prior to purchase.

No. 3: Mercedes-Benz SLK

The SLK needs no introduction, having been around for over 25 years. Snazzy styling, great engines, and its unique hardtop folding roof, carved itself a niche amongst Mercedes-Benz fans across the world. There is an assortment of second-generation (R171) SLKs available for sale on the Carlist.my website; prices range between the mid-RM50k to high RM70k regions making this once expensive sportster relatively attainable. The majority of units available here are powered by a torquey 1.8-litre supercharged four-cylinder which outputs around 163hp and 240Nm for effortless cruising. In addition, with the future of the SLK uncertain at this time, it definitely has the makings of a modern classic in the years to come. Be sure to get your prospective SLK checked by a competent specialist prior to purchase.

No. 2: Volkswagen EOS 2.0L TSI

The Volkswagen EOS is commonly overlooked but is a very capable convertible. A shame really as underneath its sleek exterior are the working mechanicals of a Volkswagen Golf GTI – which needs no introduction. Offering in excess of 200 hp from its 2.0-litre turbo engine should make cruising the highstreets and twisty backroads just as fun. Another feature which the EOS does better than most other convertibles is to carry four adults in relative comfort given its larger size and brilliant packaging, so one need not have to compromise on people carrying capacity when looking for top-down thrills. Prices range in the mid-to-low RM60k region. Get a thorough diagnostics done before pulling the trigger.

No. 1: Peugeot 207 CC 1.6L

Let’s face it, you didn’t think a Peugeot would top this list right? However, in keeping with our theme of cheap and cheerful top-down thrills – the 207 CC offers European flair for the same price as a used Perodua Myvi. Cutesy looks, nippy handling, and a great interior make for a rather enjoyable entry point into the roofless league. Not to mention, a simple 1.6-litre engine that is both frugal and reliable if cared for well. Prices range from low- to mid-RM30k; get it checked by a competent mechanic and conduct a thorough test drive before agreeing on a selling price.

Did we miss out on your favourite convertible? Where would you drive to in a convertible, let us know in the comments?


Chevrolet Takata airbag recall response rate 'below expectation'

Chevrolet
 is here to remind you once again regarding its
Takata airbag recalls
 here in Malaysia.

Affecting a total of 3,725 cars in the country for several models of the Cruze, Orlando, Sonic, and Trax, the recall was announced last year back in June in a bid to replace all of the faulty Takata airbags in their vehicles.

Despite this major issue that may cause serious harm if left untreated, the response rate here in Malaysia has been below expectation, according to Chevrolet Sales Thailand. The low take-up in getting the airbags replaced as quickly as possible is nothing short of worrying.

This, however, is a bit difficult to track down since the cars that are affected by this recall were manufactured between 2007 and 2015. An outdated customer database has proven to make things even more difficult, but not as difficult as Malaysia not having its own Chevrolet representative.

This is also the reason why the free airbag replacement procedures are currently being handled by a number of Honda authorised dealers here in Malaysia. To know more, visit the Chevrolet Takata airbag replacement microsite at
www.chevrolettakatarecallmy.com
.


Lagi Kemalangan Maut Melibatkan Kenderaan Berat Berhampiran Terowong Menora – Sampai Bila?

Laluan berhampiran Terowong Menora merupakan kawasan yang sering mencatatkan
kemalangan maut
 melibatkan kenderaan berat. Tapi apa yang boleh dilakukan bagi mengurangkan masalah ini?

Hampir setiap tahun, kemalangan membabitkan kenderaan berat seperti lori, treler dan bas ekspres sering dilaporkan di laluan berhampiran Terowong Menora.

*Kredit foto: Sinar Harian

Baru-baru ini, lima pelajar Universiti Sultan Azlan Shah (USAS) rentung dalam kemalangan di Kilometer 245.2 Lebuh raya Utara Selatan (PLUS) arah utara berhampiran Terowong Menora apabila
Honda City
 yang dinaiki mereka terbabit dalam kemalangan dengan dua treler.

Pemandu Treler Miliki 22 Saman

Ketua Polis Perak, Datuk Mior Faridalathrash Wahid memberitahu, suspek berusia 28 tahun dan berasal dari Jitra itu mempunyai 22 saman atas pelbagai kesalahan trafik dengan lapan saman membabitkan kesalahan pandu laju.

Bagaimana pun katanya, kesemua saman yang direkodkan sejak tahun 2008 hingga 2022 itu telah pun dijelaskan. Hasil ujian saringan air kencing yang dilakukan ke atas suspek juga negatif daripada sebarang pengambilan bahan terlarang.

Persoalannya, adakah mereka yang sering menerima saman termasuk di atas kesalahan memandu melebihi had laju ini ‘fit’ untuk memandu kenderaan berat di lebuh raya? Siapa yang pantau para pemandu treler ni?

Bukan Kali Pertama

Kemalangan maut melibatkan kenderaan berat ini bukanlah kali pertama berlaku di kawasan ‘panas’ tersebut. Berikut merupakan antara kemalangan yang berlaku di situ sebelum ini:

2021 – Bas express terbabas, 14 penumpang cedera

2020 – 7 maut, 9 cedera dalam kemalangan membabitkan sebuah treler, 4 kereta dan 2 motosikal

2018 – Lima sekeluarga maut setelah kemalangan dengan sebuah treler

2018 – Lori simen hilang kawalan dan masuk laluan bertentangan, 7 cedera

2018 – Tiang konkrit jatuh dari treler, 2 maut, 2 cedera

2017 – Penunggang motosikal berkuasa tinggi maut rempuh lori

2016 – Treler hempap kereta, 4 mayat rentung

2014 – Ibu dan anak maut setelah kereta dirempuh treler dari belakang

2013 – Treler menjunam cerun, pemandu treler maut

*Kredit foto: Mstar

Sampai Bila?

Laluan ini adalah sebahagian pakej Projek Lebuh Raya Utara -Selatan (PLUS) antara Ipoh ke Changkat Jering sepanjang 55 kilometer yang merupakan lebuh raya kedua dikenakan bayaran tol di Perak selepas laluan antara Slim River ke Tanjung Malim.

Ketika berlaku kemalangan maut di laluan tersebut pada tahun 2018 yang menyebabkan 5 individu rentung, kerajaan Negeri Perak berkata mereka bakal mengkaji pelbagai cadangan penambahbaikan yang perlu dilaksanakan di laluan tersebut termasuk pembinaan laluan baharu bagi mengelak berlakunya kemalangan dan kesesakan lalu lintas.

Dah masuk 2022 ni, adakah laluan baharu tersebut masih dikaji?

Kamera AWAS Belum Berfungsi?

Bagi mengurangkan kes kemalangan di situ, empat kamera
Sistem Keselamatan Kesedaran Automatik (AWAS)
 dengan had laju 70 km/j dikatakan akan dipasang di Lebuhraya Utara Selatan (PLUS) berhampiran Terowong Menora dari kedua-dua arah pada hujung tahun 2020 bagi mengurangkan kadar kemalangan di kawasan terbabit.

Walau bagaimanapun, pada tahun 2022, Jabatan Pengangkutan Jalan (JPJ) Perak berkata mereka belum dimaklumkan mengenai tarikh sebenar penguatkuasaan operasi empat kamera Sistem Keselamatan Kesedaran Automatik (AWAS) yang sebelum ini dilaporkan akan ditambah di laluan maut itu.

Apa yang boleh dibuat?

Untuk jangka pendek, pemeriksaan dan pemantauan yang lebih berat terhadap kenderaan berat yang berusia amat diperlukan memandangkan kebanyakan kemalangan berpunca daripada isu kenderaan berat itu sendiri seperti brek gagal berfungsi.

Penggunaan dadah dalam kalangan pemandu kenderaan berat juga perlu dibendung dan syarikat yang menggajikan pemandu perlu membuat pemeriksaan yang lebih ketat bagi memastikan pemandu bebas
dadah
atau alkohol ketika memandu.

*Kredit foto:Berita Harian

Seorang pengguna di Twitter juga menyatakan bahawa kerajaan patut wajibkan kenderaan berat untuk  melalui jalan lama ke Kuala Kangsar kerana masalah ini adalah masalah fizikal. Jisim kenderaan besar memiliki momentum tinggi tinggi ketika menaiki bukit. Bila turun bukit, kenderaan berat memiliki inertia yang besar.

Tambahnya, brek hanya satu faktor yang menyebabkan kemalangan. Untuk lebih selamat, lebih baik hapuskan risiko dengan menghalang kenderaan berat daripada memasuki kawasan itu.

Nak Tunggu VVIP Kemalangan Dulu Ke?

Di Malaysia, selagi tiada kemalangan di sesebuah kawasan melibatkan orang-orang kenamaan seperti Menteri atau Ahli Parlimen, jarang sekali akan ada tindakan segera. Ingat lagi bila
KJ jatuh ketika berbasikal akibat jalan berlubang?
 Sekelip mata lubang itu diturap. Siap mohon maaf lagi!

Ini bukanlah perkara asing di Malaysia kecuali jika tarikh pilihanraya semakin hampir. Masa itulah baru banyak tindakan diambil. Kalau tidak? Terus kaji dan kaji sajalah.

Diharapkan kerajaan dapat melakukan sesuatu terhadap laluan maut ini bagi mengurangkan risiko kemalangan melibatkan kenderaan berat seperti lori, treler dan bas yang kerap berlaku di laluan berkenaan.


2016 Toyota Sienta Officially Launched in Malaysia – From RM92,900

There’s not much that is not yet known about Toyota’s all-new MPV, the Sienta. Much like the
Perodua Bezza
 which received a salvo a social media coverage prior to the official launch, the first introduction of Toyota’s junior seven-seater vehicle locally happened at the recent
MyAutoFest 2016.
The Toyota Sienta slots in just above the entry-level people carrier - Toyota Avanza, and just below the soon-to-be-replaced Toyota Innova. It also sets itself apart due to the inclusion of sliding rear doors - which is a premium feature for a car of its segment.
The Toyota Sienta is produced and fully-imported (CBU) from Toyota's Karawang Barat manufacturing plant in Indonesia.
Just a day after the official
launch in Thailand
, UMW Toyota Motor today introduces the all-new Sienta in two trim levels at the following prices (on-the-road with insurance):
Toyota Sienta 1.5G – RM92,900
Toyota Sienta 1.5V – RM99,900
The Toyota Sienta represents a new generation of trendy MPVs that along with Toyota’s heavyweights, the Vellfire and Alphard, was
opened for booking
 from early June. If perhaps, you’re wondering where you might have seen a similar formula before, Honda actually marketed the rather talented but expensive
Honda Freed
 a few years back.
The Toyota Sienta is powered a 1.5-litre 2NR-FE Dual VVT-i engine mated to a CVT-type automatic transmission driving the front wheels. The powerplant outputs 107PS and 140Nm, albeit transverse mounted within the engine bay versus the longitudinal setup in the Toyota Avanza.
The CVT transmission does not have an oil cooler, but Toyota says it is durable enough in our Malaysian driving conditions, which is characterised by sustained high speeds in hot and humid weather.
It's also the similar powertrain that will be used in the forthcoming
new Toyota Vios
, which will be introduced later this year. As you expected, the Sienta is based on the Vios's platform, but with significant changes. Howeve the similarities between the two stops at the engine bay and bulkhead. Beyond the dashboard area, the rear-half of the Sienta is bespoke.
Toyota says the Sienta is targetted to have an ASEAN NCAP score of five stars, and is equipped with electronic stability control, or as Toyota calls it - VSC. Currently, the vehicle is only available with three airbags, but the company confirms that seven airbags is possible, but will add to the cost of the vehicle.
The Toyota
Sienta 1.5G
 gets the ball rolling with the following features:
Automatic halogen projector headlamps
LED daytime running lights
LED tail lights
Rear fog lights
Power sliding rear passenger door – left side only
185/60 R15 tyres, alloy rims
Rear air-con vents
Black fabric seats
50:50 split-folding second and third row seats
Audio – 2 DIN CD player, radio, MP3, AUX, USB, Bluetooth
Monochrome trip computer
Safety – ABS, EBD, BA, Hill Start Assist, Electronic Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRC), ISOFIX, 3 airbags
Optional – Window Tint. Reverse camera (in conjunction with DVD player)
While the
Sienta 1.5V
adds the following features:
Automatic LED projector headlamps
Power sliding rear passenger door – both sides
195/50 R16 tyres, alloy rims
Smart keyless entry
Auto climate control
Brown fabric seats
Digital video recorder
Infotainment – 2 DIN DVD player, 6.8-inch touchscreen, radio, MP3, AUX, USB, Bluetooth, Voice Recognition
Optitron instrument cluster with colour TFT trip computer
Leather-wrapped steering with audio controls
Standard – Window Tint. Reverse Camera.
Have a look at the product videos below:


Mercedes-Benz CLS 350 And CLS 450 Launched In Malaysia - Mild Hybrid Powertrain, From RM530k

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia today announced the expansion of its Dream Cars range with the introduction of four new models which included the CLS 350 and also the CLS 450.
The estimated prices (0% GST) for the two models mentioned above are:
Mercedes-Benz CLS 350 – RM530,000
Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 – RM654,751
While the CLS 350 is powered by a 2.0-litre in-line four-cylinder petrol engine producing 299 hp and 400 Nm of torque, the CLS 450 comes with a 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder petrol engine which makes 367 hp and 500 Nm of torque. Both engines are paired to the 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic gearbox.
Both models, which are imported from Germany, are mild hybrids as they receive the Integrated Starter Generator (EQ Boost) which boosts power by 10 hp for the CLS 350, and 22 hp for the CLS 450.
Thanks to their respective powertrains, the CLS 350 and CLS 450 are able to do the century sprint in 6-seconds and 4.8-seconds respectively, and achieve a top speed of 250 km/h.
Key features on the CLS 450’s exterior include a diamond grille with a single louvre, flat Multibeam LED headlights, Edgelight tail lamps with 3D effects, and 20-inch alloy wheels.
Inside, the CLS 450 gets:
Two 12.3-inch dsplays
Illuminated air vents
Centre console with high-gloss wood
Fully digital cockpit
Ambience lighting with 64 colours
Exclusively designed seats
Active Brake Assist
Lane Keeping Assist
Attention Assist
Speed Limit Assist
Pre-safe Sound
Assistance Graphics
Other standard equipment offered in the CLS 450 is:
Lowered comfort suspension
AMG Dynamic Select
COMAND Online
Burmester Audio system
Wireless charging
Apple Carplay
Android Auto
AMG Line Exterior
Night Edition
Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus
Sliding Sunroof
Air-Balance package
Thermotronic luxurious automatic climate control
360-degree camera
The exclusivity of the CLS can be further heightened with the Edition 1 (only available for the CLS 450 and
AMG CLS 53
) which will be available only about a year after the launch, which includes extra features like the Copper Art interior concept with black nappa leather upholstery, copper coloured accents, and a unique diamond grille with matte chrome pins.
As for the CLS 350, details are to follow soon as the model just made its global debut recently, and is expected to arrive in Malaysia towards year-end.


The 2022 Mazda CX-5 Takes It Up A Notch With Fresh Facelift

Along with some welcome spec bumps for 2022,
the Mazda CX-5
 has received a revised visual package, an enhanced equipment list, and upgraded dynamics to stand it in good stead among its compact SUV rivals.

Expected in showrooms early next year, the CX-5 is set apart by its tweaked front fascia that features a more 3D-effect grille paired with a more pronounced chrome surround and new front bumper. You might not notice it right away, but the headlights have also been altered to suit.

Along its sides, the vehicle receives a little more refined definition with cleaner body lines while the rear sees the tail light clusters match the front illuminator design. Capping off the exterior refresh is a new wheel design and an off-white Zircon Sand body colour.

Under the skin
, Mazda says that the evolved version of SkyActiv Vehicle Architecture delivers improvements to structural integrity while enabling improvements to ride comfort, suspension geometry, cabin noise isolation, and refinement even on rough surfaces.

Mazda has also introduced their Mi-Drive selector (also known as Mazda intelligent Drive Select) for the 2022 model year, letting drivers take more control over preset drive modes for different needs. While this should be standard across all variants, CX-5s equipped with the i-Activ all-wheel-drive system will also gain additional options for off-road traversal.

Interestingly, at least in Europe, the automaker has adopted a different trim and specification identifier scheme with the entry-level CX-5 being dubbed ‘Newground’. It’s differentiated from the outside by its silver finishes on the front and rear bumper, as well as black wing mirrors and lime green highlights on the front grille.

Going up a level we have the CX-5 Sport Black at the mid-tier with plenty of dark tones to match the variant's namesake, including the gloss black 19-inch wheels. Inside, this version gets a predictably sombre cabin with red contrast stitching.

The range-topping GT Sport returns us to more familiar territory with a uniform body colour, 19-inch alloys in a refreshingly bright silver, and a plusher cabin with Nappa leather upholstery and wood grain trim and a host of different customisation options depending on market.

Mazda has improved their i-Activsense driver aid suite as well for the 2022 CX-5, adding Cruising and Traffic Support (CTS) to its list of abilities, which intelligently assists in brake pedal and accelerator pedal operation to reduce driver fatigue.

Of course, the rest of the active safety features are present here, including Smart City Brake Support (AEB), Driver Attention Alert, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist, and Radar Cruise Control.

The selection of powertrains will be kept fairly static with the 2.0-litre naturally aspirated SkyActiv-G four-cylinder petrol remaining the staple of the 2022 range, producing 163hp and 213Nm. Accompanying it will be the 2.2-litre SkyActiv-D turbodiesel with 181hp and 445Nm.

The larger 2.5-litre SkyActiv-G will still see some action but might only appear in select markets where needed, but most regions will probably be itching to receive the
beefy 2.5-litre turbocharged four-pot
 with 227hp and 420Nm, an engine that debuted in the much larger CX-9.

So far as that
rumoured inline-6 engine
 and rear-drive platform, we'll have to wait a little longer.

Pricing is set to be rolled out later this year but we aren’t expecting a dramatic shift from the outgoing CX-5. Malaysian buyers will probably need to wait until 2022 for the refreshed SUV to appear in local showrooms, and of course we’ll keep an eye out for any developments on that front.


Honda Sensing Elite Bridges Gap To SAE Level 3 Autonomy – Hands Off, Almost…

The latest and greatest version of Honda’s active safety suite, dubbed Honda Sensing Elite, which highlights SAE Level 3 autonomous driving capabilities has officially been launched. The first application of Honda’s system will be featured in the Honda Legend EX which will be leased to owners in its home market of Japan.

The SAE level 3 capability Honda Sensing Elite means that Honda has
bridged the gap
 to conditional automated driving (in a limited area), meaning vehicles equipped with Sensing Elite should be able to cover substantial amounts of a journey with limited driver input.

However, the driver must be able to take over at specified periods when required.

One of the major additions of the Sensing Elite (over the
existing Sensing
) is the “Traffic Jam Pilot” function, an advanced technology needed to qualify for Level 3 automated driving. Traffic Jam Pilot technology enables the automated driving system to drive the vehicle under certain conditions, instead of the driver, such as when the vehicle is in congested traffic on an expressway.

To guide the car, the system determines the position of the vehicle and road conditions using data from the 3-dimensional high-definition maps and the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), in addition to detecting the vehicle’s 360-degree surroundings using several external sensors.

At the same time, the system tracks the conditions of the driver using the monitoring camera mounted inside the vehicle. Based on such a wide range of information, the main computer makes proper recognitions, predictions, and decisions and applies a high-level control to acceleration, braking, and steering inputs to assist the driver.

To ensure the system is safe and reliable, the system development employed simulations where a total of approximately 10 million patterns of possible real-world situations were simulated, and several demonstration tests were conducted while driving test vehicles on expressways for a total of approximately 1.3 million kilometres. Moreover, the system incorporates redundancies in its design to ensure safety and reliability in the event of a problem with any of the devices.

Other features of the Honda Sensing Elite system include:

‘Hands-off’ Functionality -
 while driving with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow (LSF) and Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) activated, when certain conditions are satisfied on an expressway, the system will assist the driving operations even while the driver has their hands off the steering wheel.

Adaptive In-Lane Driving -
 the system assists the driving and in following a car in front within a lane. The system drives the vehicle along the middle of the lane while maintaining the pre-set vehicle speed, an extension of Active Cruise Control.

Active Lane Change Assist with Hands-off Function -
 While driving using the Adaptive In-Lane Driving, when the driver confirms safe surroundings and puts on the turn signal, the system assists acceleration/deceleration and steering for the lane change.

Active Lane Change with Hands-off Function -
While driving using the Adaptive In-Lane Driving, when the driver switches on the Active Lane Change with Hands-off Function, the system assesses the situation and assists the lane change and/or passing of the other vehicle under certain conditions. When the system detects a car in front being driven at low speed, the system notifies the driver and then assists the passing and returning to the original lane.

Traffic Jam Pilot -
 While driving using the “Adaptive in Lane Driving”, when the vehicle gets caught in traffic congestion under certain conditions, the system takes control of acceleration, braking, and steering while monitoring the vehicle’s surroundings on behalf of the driver. The system drives, stops, and resumes driving within the same lane while maintaining a proper following distance in accordance with the speed of the vehicle in front.

Emergency Stop Assist
- If the driver continues to be unresponsive to the system’s requests for a handover (the transfer of control back to the driver), the system assists deceleration and stopping of the vehicle by making lane change(s) to the outermost lane or the shoulder of the road. To be more specific, in case the driver does not respond to the system’s handover requests as the Traffic Jam Pilot/Hands-off Function will be disengaged, the system further urges the driver to respond to the handover request using visual, auditory and tactile alerts including escalated alarm sounds and vibration on the driver’s seatbelt. If the driver continues to be unresponsive, the system will assist in slowing down and stopping the vehicle while alerting other vehicles around using hazard lights and the horn. When there is a road shoulder, the system assists deceleration and lane changes until the vehicle reaches the shoulder of the road for a safe stop.

The Honda Sensing Elite system communicates its processes and requests to the driver with its Human-Machine Interface (HMI). Elite indicator lights are positioned on the steering wheel, the top part of the navigation screen, and glovebox. When the Hands-off Function is activated, the indicator light on the steering wheel illuminates, and when Traffic Jam Pilot is activated other indicator lights also come on with a blue light. When the system requests the handover, all indicator lights change their color to orange and blink to send an easy-to-understand message to the driver.

A separate 12.3-inch full-LCD meter also displays the operating status of the system, driving situation, and the handover requests in a simple and legible manner.


Spyshot: New Ford Ranger Facelift Seen In Thailand

The current T6 generation of the Ford Ranger was unveiled way back in 2011, before undergoing a facelift in March 2015. It appears that an all-new Ranger is still some years away because spyshots of a new Ranger facelift has just surfaced thanks to Thai website
headlightmag
.
From the pictures, we can tell that new Ranger will feature a slightly revised grille and Ford Everest-like headlights. Additionally, the design of the front bumper is appears to be different.
Changes towards the rear are less apparent, though this particular Ranger wears a “Limited” emblem on the tailgate. The Ford Ranger range is also expected to be rearranged, so this particular “Limited” model could sit below the range-topping Wildtrak variant.
As for powertrains, the new Ford Ranger is expected to continue with current engine options - a 2.2-litre commonrail turbo diesel and a 3.2-litre commonrail turbo diesel diesel, both from Ford's Duratorq family.
Apart from the updated T6 Ford Ranger, sources have also indicated that higher performance Ranger Raptor variant, powered exclusively by a 2.0-litre EcoBlue twin turbo diesel mated to a 10-speed automatic, could be in the plans. The hotter Ranger Raptor is also said to feature much beefier off-road suspension, additional undercarriage protection and enhanced 4WD system.


Pembukaan Bilik Pameran Tingkatkan Jualan Kenderaan di Malaysia Pada Ogos 2021

Menerusi data jualan kenderaan pada Ogos 2021 yang dikeluarkan oleh
Persatuan Automotif Malaysia (MAA)
, jualan kenderaan baharu di Malaysia mencatatkan peningkatan sebanyak 147% kepada 17,500 unit berbanding hanya 7,086 unit pada
bulan Julai
.

Meskipun mencatat peningkatan berbanding bulan lalu, namun jumlah tersebut masih 67.5% lebih rendah jika nak dibandingkan dengan prestasi jualan pada bulan yang sama tahun 2020 yang mencatatkan sebanyak 53,838 unit.

Daripada jumlah keseluruhan kenderaan yang terjual pada Ogos 2021, kenderaan
penumpang
 mencatatkan jualan sebanyak 15,064 unit, lebih tinggi berbanding 4,949 unit yang dicatatkan bulan Julai. Namun ia tetap tidak boleh lawan jumlah jualan kenderaan penumpang pada Ogos 2020, iaitu sebanyak 48,598 unit.

Jumlah jualan kenderaan komersial pada Ogos 2021 turut mencatatkan peningkatan kepada 2,436 unit berbanding 2,137 unit pada bulan sebelumnya. Jika nak dibandingkan dengan bulan yang sama pada tahun lalu, terdapat penurunan berbanding jualan pada bulan Ogos 2020 yang mencatatkan sebanyak 5,240 unit kenderaan komersial.

Jumlah pengeluaran pada bulan Ogos 2021 pula adalah sebanyak 13,961 unit, di mana penurunan sebanyak 72.2% daripada 50,196 unit pada Ogos tahun lalu. Daripada jumlah pengeluaran pada Ogos 2021, kenderaan penumpang mewakili 12,897 unit manakala kenderaan komersial berjumlah 1,064 unit.

Menurut MAA, peningkatan jualan ini disebabkan oleh kebenaran bilik pameran untuk kembali beroperasi di negeri utama seperti Selangor dan Kuala Lumpur sejak 13 Ogos lalu. Pembukaan tersebut banyak membantu urusan pendaftaran kenderaan untuk diselesaikan.

MAA kekal optimis bahawa jumlah jualan kenderaan pada bulan September 2021 akan mencatatkan angka yang lebih tinggi berbanding Ogos 2021 ekoran pelbagai industri termasuk industri automotif sudah
kembali beroperasi
 mengikut tahap yang dibenarkan.

Pengeluar kereta juga akan terus berhempas-pulas secara berterusan untuk meningkatkan lagi jualan bagi meningkatkan pendapatan mereka setelah terkesan dengan pandemik. Tidak dilupakan, pasti ramai pembeli kereta yang ingin memanfaatkan pengecualian cukai SST oleh kerajaan yang bakal berakhir pada 31 Disember nanti.

Walau bagaimanapun, MAA menjelaskan bahawa masalah
kekurangan cip semikonduktor
 dalam industri automotif masih lagi berlanjutan. Kekurangan tersebut mungkin akan menjejaskan beberapa pengeluaran jenama kereta untuk memenuhi permintaan pelanggan mereka secepat mungkin.


Singapore 2018: Subaru EyeSight Makes ASEAN Debut In Singapore-Specs XV and Outback

Further to our earlier report on the impending ASEAN debut of Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, Motor Image, the exclusive distributor of Subaru vehicles in nine Asian countries has today launched EyeSight in Singapore.
The feature made its debut in the all-new Subaru XV and the new Subaru Outback.
Compared to the all-new XV that was launched in Malaysia earlier in December, this EyeSight-equipped Singapore market XV is imported from Japan while the ones sold in Malaysia are locally-assembled at the Tan Chong Motor Assemblies plant in Segambut, thus the omission of EyeSight from our local XV.
As for EyeSight’s introduction to other regional markets including Malaysia, Glenn Tan, Managing Director of Tan Chong International Limited (TCIL), the parent company of Motor Image have explained in an earlier
interview with Carlist.my
 that EyeSight is in the plans for Malaysia but introduction of the feature will have to begin with a higher range model like the Outback before it can be offered to lower range models like the XV.
Analogous to the
Honda Sensing
 function that’s currently offered in the all-new CR-V and updated Accord, Subaru EyeSight is an advanced driving assistance function that works to mitigate/reduce the severity of an accident caused by a distracted driver. However unlike Honda’s system which uses a combination of milimetre wave radar and monocular camera, Subaru’s EyeSight relies purely on a pair of stereoscopic cameras mounted behind the rear-view mirror.
Subaru’s alternative also lacks one function – a fatigue reducing Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS) function, which is slightly different from the collision mitigating Lane Departure Warning. However, EyeSight counters that with the added convenience of Lead Vehicle Start Alert, which is not available in the Malaysian market Honda Sensing. Lead Vehicle Start Alert gives a buzz if the vehicle ahead in traffic has driven off and the driver is not responding. The newer version of Honda Sensing offered in Japan is equipped with this function but it’s not available in our region yet.
Subaru’s EyeSight has six main functions:
Pre-Collision Braking - warns the driver with a buzzer and a light on the dash. If the driver still does not take evasive action to avoid the collision, the system can automatically apply the brakes to reduce any impact or, if possible, prevent the collision
Adaptive Cruise Control - adjusts the speed to keep a set distance from the lead vehicle by monitoring the distance and the difference of the speed
Pre-Collision Throttle Management - When EyeSight sees an obstacle in front but the driver shifts the transmission into Drive instead of Reverse, Pre-Collision Throttle Management sounds several short beeps, turns on a flashing indicator and cuts the engine output to avoid a frontal collision
Lane Departure Warning – warns when the vehicle starts to sway to the edge of a lane (without signaling) when travelling at speeds of 50 km/h or more
Lane Sway Warning – helps you stay alert with a buzzer and a flashing indicator. It only activates at speeds of approximately 60 km/h or more
Lead Vehicle Start Alert - When you’re at a stop and EyeSight senses that traffic has started moving again, Lead Vehicle Start Alert prompts the driver to take action with a buzzer and a flashing indicator
Advanced Driving Assistance Systems (ADAS) functions like those included in Subaru EyeSight are becoming increasingly important as fitment of one or more ADAS functions are now taken into consideration for a 5-star NCAP rating, not just by Euro NCAP but also our very own
ASEAN NCAP
. Even Perodua is now offering its such features under the ASA (Advanced Safety Assist) name, albeit with a far lower set of capabilities than the systems used by Subaru or Honda, but appreciated nonetheless especially in a budget car.
 We will have more information on Subaru’s EyeSight and details of its workings later tomorrow.