Wheels Are Falling Off The Toyota bZ4X? Weird Recall Follows

It seems that Toyota is facing quite a conundrum with its new EV model, the
Toyota bZ4X
. The reason? There's a risk of the wheels literally falling off the car.

The recall for the
Toyota bZ4X
 was announced at the end of June. Despite having a major issue with keeping the wheels on while driving, it seems to affect only a small batch of the bZ4X - 2,700 units in total.

Toyota caught this early - bZ4X wheels falling off

Shortly after the launch and sales, Toyota was able to identify this issue early on and even notify each bZ4X owner via a letter stating the issue. Although there was no mention of the wheels falling off, Toyota went into detail about what they're willing to offer in terms of compensation (and they're pretty good, too).

You can read the text of the letter below (issued by Toyota Motor Sales USA).

We recently advised you of a safety recall that involves your 2023 Toyota bZ4X and
continues to ask that you not allow the vehicle to be driven until a remedy is available
. We are working diligently on a remedy and will notify you in the future when it becomes available.

At Toyota, your safety is a top priority. If you have not already done so, please contact any authorized Toyota Dealer and they will arrange to pick up and store your vehicle, at no cost, until the remedy is available. We will also provide a loaner vehicle at no cost to you.

We place a high value on the guest experience and recognize the inconvenience presented by this situation. Therefore, Toyota is offering affected owners the following until the remedy is available:

Continue to provide a loaner vehicle, and store your vehicle, at no cost

Reimburse your fueling costs incurred while operating the provided loaner vehicle

Provide you with a total credit of $5,000 toward payments of your loan/lease or purchase price if the vehicle was paid in full

Provide additional time for complimentary charging at all EVgo-owned and operated public stations nationwide, through December 31, 2024

Provide an extension to your vehicle’s New Vehicle Limited Warranty based on the period of time that your vehicle is not able to be driven due to the recall (from the recall announcement date of June 23, 2022 through a date in the future when the remedy is announced.

Alternatively, if you do not wish to proceed as described above, Toyota will offer to repurchase your vehicle. The terms for the repurchase may vary, depending on your state and particular circumstances.

A bZ4X specialist will reach out to you in the coming days to discuss these options. Should you wish to speak with someone sooner, please contact us at 1-800-331-4331 and select option three, between 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. Monday-Friday and 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. Saturday ET.

We sincerely regret any inconvenience this condition may have caused you.

-Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A.

Toyota even offered to buy back the bZ4X

The last part of the letter regarding the bZ4X recall stated a very important aspect of Toyota's commitment to the owner's safety (or a great way to negate any legal issues in the future).

If the new owners of the Toyota bZ4X are not interested in any of the 'incentives' provided by Toyota USA to compensate while they figure out how to solve the issue, they're willing to purchase the car back from the owners.

On a different note, the recall also affects the
Subaru Solterra
, the Toyota bZ4X's sister car, but luckily for Subaru, no units have been delivered to customers yet.

The issue now with the owners is to wait for Toyota to deal with the problem and enjoy the compensation, or let them buy back the car and look for other EV models in a market that is in high demand with even longer waiting periods.

Possible delay for Malaysian launch?

While
UMW Toyota
 has already committed to bringing EVs into the Malaysian market soon (they've already installed a number of
DC fast chargers
 at their HQ in Shah Alam), we're probably guessing that this issue might delay its official arrival.

The same goes for our neighbouring countries, but 2023 is still within target and hopefully, Toyota can solve this matter soon. For a brand that's known to have 'bulletproof' cars, having the wheels fall off without knowing why is a big no-no and a bigger 'Oh no!'


Terrible Things Can Happen If You Rest Your Feet On The Dashboard

With safety being such a paramount consideration in cars, the term ‘airbag’ is likely now more widely associated as being a catch-all for faring well in the event of an accident. But what happens if you obstruct their operational pattern with, say, feet? Nothing good.
Airbags, all
those

recalls

aside
, are offered in even the most basic of cars on the market today, with more expensive models using its higher count and location (of airbags) as selling points. But airbags, much like seatbelts, need to be used the right way for them to have effect.
In contrast, airbag operation is a much more high-impact, even violent, proceeding. Given its nature of detonating and deploying within milliseconds, requiring an inflation velocity of around 320km/h. Of course, if it goes like it should, the airbags inflate and saved our lives before we even have had time to blink.
For Bethany Benson, who was 22-years old (now 26) by the August of 2010, her seemingly innocuous snap decision to rest her feet up on the dashboard before falling asleep while her then-boyfriend was at the wheel of a Pontiac Sunfire during a long trip back between Michigan, US, and Oshawa, Canada, was one she wish she could take back.
An accident ahead forced a lorry to stop suddenly, leaving the Sunfire with Bethany in it very little time to avoid running into its rear. From the picture above, it’s remarkable to think anyone survived. Bethany, however, suffered a list of additional injuries.
You can read about the
full story here
, but here’s an excerpt:
This [the airbag] is what hit Bethany’s hamstrings, driving her knees into her face. Her left eye socket and cheekbone were broken, as was her nose. Her jaw was dislocated, a tooth cut through her lower lip and she would lose her spleen. Both feet were broken and compressed, and would eventually end up nearly 2 sizes smaller than they were before the crash. Her left pupil would remain permanently dilated affecting her vision, her hearing would remain altered and her memory would be wiped and rebooted like a faulty computer program. But perhaps the most dangerous injury would be the one her mother was told at the time not to worry about: a brain bleed.
Bethany is recovering, but had sustained brain damage leaving her with the maturity not of a 22-year old, but a hormonal teenager of 14, according to her mother. She is slowly regaining her most deeply-rooted memories and pre-crash personality.
Lifestyle changes, however, are more drastic with her requiring special orthopaedic shoe inserts and not being able to participate in certain activities that are common for a 26 year-old.
So, dear readers, remember that leaving your legs up on the dashboard is one of the worst things you could do in the event of a crash. Should you need to stretch your legs a little, just pull over to a rest area and have a little break, maybe a short walkabout. You need that after a long journey of sitting stationary in a car.
Have a look at how airbags deploy in super slow motion. Check out how quickly they inflate and just imagine if you had your feet (or anything else) in the way. Yikes. Airbags can save our lives, for sure, but we've gotta let them do their thing without getting in the way.


Auto theft up by 20% in PJ area

Now that all of us have gone back to some kind of normalcy after the pandemic, it seems that thieves too are getting back into their stride, as cases of stolen vehicles in Petaling Jaya have risen by 20%.

According to Bernama, Petaling Jaya District Police Chief ACP Mohamad Fakhrudin Abdul Hamid said 82 cases of missing vehicles were recorded from January to February this year compared to 65 cases during the same period last year.

"A total of 13 individuals have been arrested, and a total of eight vehicles were successfully recovered," he said at the recent launch of Carsome and PDRM's cautionary sign board installation.

Based on a report by the Vehicle Theft Reduction Council of Malaysia Berhad (VTREC) in 2020, an average of 20 cars are stolen each day in Malaysia.

In fact, Malaysia has one of the highest rates of vehicle theft in the world. Together with the Petaling Jaya District Police, Carsome aims to increase public awareness of the prevalence of car theft.

Fakhrudin said the collaboration was one of the efforts to help the police in preventing crime in the district.

Carsome will sponsor the installation of 34 safety message signs in hotspot areas around Petaling Jaya areas such as Desa Menteri, SS2, Mentari Court, Flora Damansara and in Subang Valley where crimes are identified as frequent occurrences.


Kia EV6 Now Available For Leasing With Yinson GreenTech

Yinson GreenTech will be partnering up with
Dinamikjaya Motors (DJM)
 as EV leasing partners here in Malaysia and their latest unit is the
Kia EV6
.

As the distributor of Kia here in Malaysia, this partnership with Yinson GreenTech means that EV models such as the beautiful
Kia EV6
 are now available under its public leasing program which already includes other EV models such as the
Hyundai Ioniq 5
 as well as the
Ora Good Cat
.

Yinson offers end-to-end leasing services

The Kia EV6 is the latest addition to the Yinson GreenTech EV leasing offerings which also includes vans, buses, and coming soon, motorcycles as well. The end-to-end leasing services also mean that the packages on offer also include complimentary membership across the entire lease period with chargEV.

This is because Yinson 'holds a majority stake in a joint venture to commercialise, operate and maintain charging infrastructure in Malaysia through the chargEV brand. In other words, those who enroll in their EV leasing services will also have access to more than 400 charging stations in Malaysia under the chargEV flag.

Maintenance & servicing included

According to Dato’ Francis Lee, Group CEO of BAuto and Director of DJM, "We, at DJM, hope to collaborate with YGT and be one of our leasing partners in providing an alternative mobility solution through this leasing programme. We propose that customers who wish to try out or have short-term specific needs to opt for this leasing programme as a prelude to full ownership."

This means that if you're interested to lease the latest Kia EV6 model, the services under Yinson GreenTech will also include comprehensive maintenance and servicing, road tax and insurance renewal, battery-charging management system, digital solutions, full body wrapping, and more.


Isuzu Malaysia Continues As Top Sponsor For Borneo Safari

This year’s Borneo Safari marks the 25
th
 year, or silver jubilee edition, of one of Asia’s most grueling off-road events and
Isuzu
 Malaysia retains its close relationship with the yearly event, returning this year as their Diamond Sponsor.
The confirmation was made following a meeting between Isuzu Malaysia’s Executive Director Hajime Machimura together with Sabah Four Wheel Drive Association President Faez Nordin in Kuala Lumpur.
Isuzu first became involved with Borneo Safari in 2006 as a media partner and that cooperation grew from then until now, marking nine years in collaboration.
“Our close relationship with the Borneo Safari goes back nearly a decade when Isuzu Malaysia first made its mark in the country. We are glad to see that through the years, both the Borneo Safari event and Isuzu’s reputation as one of the toughest 4x4 vehicles in the market has grown significantly,” said Machimura.
This year’s Borneo Safari will be ongoing between October 25
th
 and November 1
st
 2015 and is slated to draw a record count of participants with an expected convoy of over 200 vehicles.
For 2015, the event’s route will concentrate primarily around the tough and unforgiving highland area of Keningau and Tenom located within the interior region in eastern Sabah. Despite being more compact in mileage this time around, it won’t be any less challenging than previous years.
“We are very grateful for the support that Isuzu Malaysia has given to the Borneo Safari over the years, not only through its sponsorship, but also by helping to build the media publicity for the event. This partnership has been a lasting and very meaningful one and we are very pleased to have Isuzu with us again on our jubilee event,” said Faez Nordin after the meeting.
Isuzu will be supplying the event with three units of the rugged
Isuzu D-MAX
 for use in ferrying local media throughout the duration of the event, fitted with minor modifications such as larger mud-terrain tyres, engine and body protection, as well as an electric winch.


New Ford Ranger Launched – Plenty First in Class Features, Priced From RM91,588

If there is one pick-up truck to look out for, it is the new 2015
Ford Ranger
, which
Ford
 says
would boast plenty of first-in-class features to tempt the market
. That wait is over as Ford Malaysia has launched the new Ranger today, sporting a price tag ranging from the RM91,588 for the base 2.2L XL, to the RM132,188
range-topping 3.2L WildTrak
 Automatic.
And since we are on the topic of price here is a brief rundown on the West Malaysian prices (excluding insurance) for the facelift Ford Ranger:
2.2L XL: from RM91,588
2.2L XLT: from RM101,388
3.2L WildTrak: from RM132,188
Considering the prices of the pre-facelift Ranger, the new Ranger brings with it a significant price hike, which is influenced on one part by
unfavourable exchange rates
, and the other being the extent of engineering improvements and new features that it comes fitted with.
With that being said, let’s take a look at what the new 2015 Ford Ranger has to offer.
What’s New?
You won’t have to look hard to spot the difference as the faceliftwork is quite extensive. On the outside the Ranger comes with a commanding new front grille, topped with a new re-profiled bonnet, new side fenders with a new side air vent design, and new halogen project headlights with auto-levelling functionality. The WildTrak tops the specification sheet with a WildTrak colour scheme grille, side steps, and auto high beam functionality.
But describing the new 2015 Ford Ranger as a mere facelift doesn’t quite highlight the magnitude of improvements Ford has shoehorned into the Ranger. The headlining improvements that have been brought with the facelift area raft of new engineering changes, which range from the drivetrain to the steering system and safety features.
Engine and Transmission
The biggest change in the drivetrain department is to be found with the 2.2-litre variants, which now comes with an improved version of the 2.2-litre 4-cylinder DuraTorq engine. The engine now puts out 10hp and 10Nm more, bringing its total power output up to 160hp and 385Nm of torque.
While there are no power increases to be had in the 200hp/470Nm 3.2-litre variant, Ford says that its big DuraTorq engine features an updated exhaust gas recirculation system that is said to boost fuel efficiency by up to 12 per cent.
As for transmissions, both engines will be accompanied with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic.
The Steering is now Electric Assisted
Though electric power steering systems are becoming commonplace on normal family cars, the Ranger is the first pick-up truck in the segment to adopt electric power steering, which is now fitted to the XLT and WildTrak variants.
 According to Ford the Ranger’s new power steering system is said to be more managable at low-speed manoeuvring and offer precise steering as well as being quieter in operation and capable of delivering a three per cent improvement in fuel efficiency.
Class-Leading Safety Features
The whole Ranger range now comes with Forward Alert system that gives drivers a visual and audible warning if the vehicle in front gets too close. Ford says the Ranger is the only pick-up truck in Malaysia to offer both electronic stability control and ISOFIX child seat harness points
across all variants
, as well as being the only pick-up truck in Malaysia to include audible parking sensors in both the front and rear, and features a rear-view camera.
Besides that, the Ranger range comes complete with plenty of safety features such as two airbags, Hill Launch Assist,  Hill Descent Control, Adaptive Load Control, and emergency brake assist.
The cream of the Ranger's advanced safety features are reserved for the top-spec 3.2L WildTrak variant which comes with additional side and curtain airbags, bringing its total airbag count up to six. On top of that, the WIldTrak boasts class-leading advanced safety features such as the Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keeping Aid that applies steering torque should the system detects you are straying out of the lane. There is also a radar-guided Adaptive Cruise Control with Speed Limiter that is able to regulate your cruising speed.
Ranger’s Interior Gets Classy
It isn’t just the outside that gets a big nose job. The new Ranger also features a new dashboard that looks more upmarket. Occupants in the XLT will have Microsoft's SYNC in-car connectivity system with a 4.2-inch multi-function colour display that is prepared with playback capabilities for all manners of media formats, MP3s, AUX input, and USB device support.
On the WildTrak variant, Ford had pulled no stops in tarting it up. The range-topper comes complete with a huge 8-inch touchscreen system that is hooked up to the new-generation Microsoft SYNC2 system that allows occupants to operate the multimedia system, climate control, and Bluetooth Connectivity. The WildTrak features a first-in-class 4.2-inch TFT LCD meter cluster, two USB ports and SD card slot, a 230V 3-pin power inverter in the back, and the Ford MyKey programmable keys that allow owners to set the maximum speed limit, maximum volume of the audio system, and seatbelt reminders.
Still Capable As Ever
Not losing sight of its role as a pick-up truck, Ford ensures that the Ranger pick-up truck continues to uphold its 'Built Tough' reputation to pull through adverse conditions. The Ranger boasts a class-leading wading ability of up to 800mm depth, 230mm ground clearance, and a 28-degree approach and 25-degree departure angle.
With an electronically controlled transfer case drivers can switch between 4x2 and 4x4 High on the fly via a knob on the centre console, with a 4x4 Low low-range gearing available for low-speed torque or additional downhill braking. Ford says the Ranger is capable of towing up to 3,500kg and has an exceptional payload capacity of up to 1,200kg.
Stepping into Tough Competition
With plenty of first-in-class features, the new Ranger is well-equipped to take on the pick-up truck market. Judging from the changes that are done to the WildTrak and XLT variants, it is clear that Ford is targeting the casual and urban pick-up truck user, a growing demographic of buyers in the segment. Even so, the Ranger is up to some stiff competition from a whole range of new-generation pick-up trucks.
As we have
covered the topic on why manufacturers are updating their pick-up truck models almost simultaneously
, the Ranger’s competitors are already busily incorporating passenger car features in their latest pick-up truck offerings. The latest generation of pick-up trucks, such as the
2015 Mitsubishi Triton
 and the
upcoming Toyota Hilux
, feature an increasing amount of on-board features and improved level of refinement that blurs the lines that once divided the pick-up truck and passenger car classes.
Previously the Ranger, with its refinement and on-board features, was as close one could get to passenger car qualities in a pick-up truck. With the competition catching onto the Ranger’s long held advantage, Ford is upping the Ranger’s game considerably with the facelift with more features and creature comforts to become one of the most well-equipped pick-up trucks in the market.
#The new 2015 Ford Ranger will be available for public viewing at the “Tough Done Smart Experiential Test Drive” event at Central Park Avenue, 1Utama Shopping Centre from tomorrow till Sunday (9
th
 to 11
th
 October 2015).


Subaru To Launch Top-Spec BRZ GT Variant in Japan Next Month

Let us take a moment to appreciate the BRZ. It's the Subaru-badge-wearing version of the Toyota GT86, and besides some small differences in damping choices and dynamics, the two cars are essentially identical. Toyota made waves by offering the GT86 in all kinds of trim levels, down to an extremely bare spec "RC" model which was as "kosong" as could be (no air con, no radio, steel wheels) for racing teams to build upon. Subaru's equivalent variant was the BRZ RA, but we digress.
Following the facelifts that Toyota and Subaru have rolled out, Subaru is also offering a new specification level for their BRZ in Japan. It's called the BRZ GT, and it sits as the new top-spec model for the range. Pricing is estimated at JPY 3,315,600 to JPY 3,375,000 (RM 134,000 to RM 136,000), which is a fair amount higher than the current top-spec BRZ Type S that goes for JPY 2,793,000 to JPY 2,871,750 (RM 113,000 to RM 116,000).
What does the extra money get you? A fair amount, as it turns out. Aesthetic changes are mild, with a small aluminium spoiler and some lovely 17-inch aluminium wheels. On the inside there are sports seats finished in Alcantara and leather, with integrated seat heaters to keep you warm during the (decidedly cold) Japanese winters.
It's what's inside (or underneath) that counts. The most value-for-money pieces on the GT spec model are huge Brembo 4-piston brakes up front that add as massive amount of stopping power. The GT86 and BRZ had excellent brakes in stock form, but this change could make the car even more aggressive on a back road or track. ZF Sachs dampers sit at each corner, and while they're not the usual Ohlins or Bilsteins that Subaru is known for, they should offer better body control than standard.


Porsche To Make A Panamera Wagon, Targeted Release in 2018-2019

Shooting brakes (also known as wagons, or estates) are a big market in Europe, with consumers preferring the practicality of a large boot with the interior space and handling dynamics of a sedan, without the weight and size penalties associated with an SUV. It's only natural then that Porsche expand into this market (source:
Bloomberg
,
MotorAuthority
), given their successful foray into SUVs and sedans, beyond the 911 that the company was built on.
(photo credit:
ForceGT.com
 )
While Porsche may have been mocked for these tangents in the past, it is these models that have proved to be extremely profitable for the German brand, allowing them rapid and easy access to untapped market shares. The brand strength coupled with products that consumers wanted were keys to success, and understanding the demand for a Panamera wagon is the next step forward.
(photo credit:
Autoblog.com
 )
The model is expected to be based loosely off of the Gran Turismo Concept (main image) from 2012, and launched in 2018 or 2019. That being said, the American market isn't likely to receive it in large numbers, nor is the ASEAN market. While Porsche's previous products have a very broad appeal, the wagon is still regarded by consumers in these regions as being a little old fashioned and unshapely. Then again, given how people have fallen head over heels for the controversial design of the Panamera, it's anyone's guess as to how this Panamera wagon will do.


New Maybach Launched In Thailand

Mercedes-Benz’s superluxury brand Maybach has landed in Thailand. Unlike the previous Maybach, which used to exist as a freestanding brand with its own Maybach dealer network, this new Maybach will exist only as a higher range variant of an S-Class.
While Mercedes-Benz might disagree with us calling it a variant, a quick look at the pictures will confirm that this is an S-Class.
Like the Mercedes-AMG GT, the Maybach is officially known as the Mercedes-Maybach, dropping the ‘Benz’ name.
We can’t remember the Maybach brand being officially represented in this part of the world in the past, although several units were officially imported by Mercedes-Benz Malaysia via special order, with several more likely to be sold in Singapore, Thailand and Indonesia.
So this could very likely be the first time the Maybach brand is appearing in a Mercedes-Benz showroom in ASEAN.
Update: Mercedes-Benz Vietnam had already launched a 6-litre V12 Maybach S600 earlier.
Prices start from 16.9 million Baht, for the 4.7-litre V8 Mercedes-Maybach S500.
Compared to a regular long wheelbase Mercedes-Benz S400 Hybrid, the Maybach is longer by 207mm. Wheelbase is also 200mm longer at 3,365mm while width remains the same at 2,130mm.
Unlike the five-seater S400 Hybrid (Malaysian market specifications), the Maybach is only a four-seater. The centre space is now taken up by a Maybach-exclusive centre console that is designed to hold champagne flutes.
There’s also an optional camera-based Magic Body Control active suspension system, which uses a stereo camera to continuously scan the road ahead and adjusts the suspension setting accordingly.
Among the highlights for the Maybach is the Executive rear seats, which comes with adjustable legrest and backrest. The seats also include an optional seatbelt integrated airbag, and ‘Cushionbag’ that deploys beneath the seat cushion to prevent a reclined passenger from ‘submarining’ under the seatbealt.


Review : 2017 Honda Jazz Sport Hybrid - The Hybrid System CR-Z Is Envious Of

This year marks ten years of Honda Malaysia popularizing the hybrid technology in Malaysia. Back in 2007, Honda Malaysia introduced the Civic Hybrid as a regular variant beside the petrol variants. Prior to that, there were small quantities of Civic Hybrid (7
th
 Generation) between 2004 and 2006, only available to select dealers and customers.
The Jazz Hybrid was first introduced as an imported model from Japan, and made Malaysian automotive history as the first locally assembled petrol-electric hybrid vehicle back in 2012. This move also saw Malaysia becoming the third country after Japan and the USA to produce Honda hybrid vehicles locally.
With very favourable and encouraging incentives from the Government, as well as Honda Malaysia local R&D support, it was only a matter of time for the local introduction of the GK-based Honda Jazz Hybrid (model code GP5).
Specifications :
Engine : 1.5-litre DOHC i-VTEC Atkinson cycle, transverse, naturally aspirated
Engine power : 110 PS, 134 Nm
Motor output : 30 PS, 160 Nm
Traction battery : 0.86kWh, Lithium-ion
Combined system output : 137 PS, 170 Nm
Transmission : 7-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission with Integrated High-Power Motor
Safety : 4 airbags, VSA, Hill Start Assist (HSA), ESS, ISOFIX, Multi-angle reverse camera
Price : RM 84,880 (on-the-road without insurance)
Origin : Locally-assembled in Pegoh, Melaka
Overview
The first item that captured our attention when Honda Malaysia first previewed the Jazz Hybrid was its name, Sport i-DCD (Intelligent Dual-Clutch Drive). The full-hybrid system now has a new marketing name and it points to its product concept of offering sporty traits, fun-to-drive characteristic, which the regular petrol Jazz already has in abundance.
The combined system output of 137 PS / 170 Nm paired to a highly-complex 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (dry type) on an agile and lightweight Honda Jazz sounds like a recipe that surely befits the Sport Hybrid i-DCD naming. It is a big departure from the previous generation Jazz Hybrid Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) mild hybrid system, and on paper, even better than the higher performance IMA found in the Honda CR-Z CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).
Exterior
Viewing the Jazz Sport Hybrid from any angle, there is not one angle that seems to match its Sport name. Eco-biased 15-inch Goodyear GT3 tyres from Thailand in high profile 65-series are paired to the same wheel design as the entry and middle grade Jazz.
Tail lamps and headlamps are the same across all variants, unlike the previous generation Jazz Hybrid which had clear lens LED tail lamps and blue tinted head lamps. Thus, the only visual indicators the Jazz Sport Hybrid have are the blue-on-chrome ‘HYBRID’ emblems on front fender and tail gate.
To clearly stand out from the crowd, select the Hybrid exclusive White Orchid Pearl paint, as the grey shade and silver colours are available in the petrol Jazz too. Other notable exterior feature is the inclusion of LED daytime running lights, recessed into the bumper design.
Interior
Open the touch-unlock Smart Entry door handles, you will immediately notice the beautifully made Shift-by-wire gear select lever at the lower console. Finished in high quality plastics with chrome and surrounded in gloss black, the select lever is definitely the highlight of the interior. It is easy to use, with just 2 main directions (Reverse or Drive) for moving the Jazz. The pattern is similar to the system used by Nissan Leaf and Toyota Prius. L-mode increases engine braking for travelling down long slopes.
A button marked ‘S’ for Sport Mode is placed at the top right corner of the select lever area. The steering wheel does not come with leather wrap, however does have cruise control and audio control switches. One would expect paddle shifters to be fitted, being a Sport model, however, this feature is only available in the sedan City Sport Hybrid.
Press the red illuminated Power On/off button (another hybrid specific item, replacing the traditional Engine Start/Stop button) and the eye catching, premium looking 3D meter cluster come to life. Divided to three sections, with the speedometer taking central position and another full-colour display at the right providing many of the hybrid-specific graphics, such as energy flow, ECO driving guide and sport tachometer. Left section displays the gear position and a power/charge indicator.
One of the biggest weakness of the old IMA system was the engine-power driven air-conditioning compressor, which shuts itself off during idling at traffic stops. In the Jazz Sport Hybrid system, a dedicated fully electric driven compressor continues to keep the air-con system in operation, distributing cool refrigerant to the cabin, keeping occupants comfortable in the hottest traffic jams.
Storage space is abundant in the Jazz, with up to 7 large cup holders can be found. The large centre armrest console box also managed to hide a 700 ml beverage bottle. Boot capacity is slightly reduced to 314 litres, due to the placement of the lithium-ion battery.
The reduction in volume is not so obvious visually, as only the floor height is slightly raised compared to the normal Jazz.  The familiar ULTRA-seats can provide solutions for better accommodation of longer and larger items, as folding the rear seats down extend the boot to an incredible 835 litres of cargo volume.
Driving Experience
On paper, the numbers and technology certainly look promising. A detailed explanation of Honda’s Sport Hybrid i-DCD system can be found
here
. There are 3 driving modes in the Jazz Sport Hybrid, namely ECON, Normal and Sport.
Pressing the green ECON mode button relaxes the accelerator pedal response, making it easier to keep the Jazz Sport Hybrid in full Electric Vehicle mode or EV. If the battery have sufficient state-of-charge, one can power up the Jazz Sport Hybrid, move stealthily out of the parking lot in EV mode.
During EV drive, the engine is decoupled from the dual-clutch transmission. Nestled within the high powered 30 PS electric motor is a planetary gear 1st gear ratio, and EV drive is done with 3rd gear ratio.  Based on observation, anything above 20 km/h and the 4-cylinder engine starts up, driving the car forward. At longer stretches of start-stop congestion, occupants will note that the engine sounds louder than the usual idling, as the engine turns into a generator to recharge the depleting battery.
Once you have reached approximately 50 km/h, EV mode will activate again, gliding the car around in serene ambience thanks to additional placement of noise cancelling and dampening materials.
Switchover between the engine and electric driving is accomplished with much refinement and smoothness. However, at lower speeds of below 30 km/h, the quality of the gear shift in the DCT could be improved, as it felt as if the computer could not decide if it really wanted to change gears in the first place.
Honda expresses that the Jazz Sport Hybrid has performance equivalent to a 1.8-litre engine with Sport mode engaged.  In normal mode, the DCT shifts up to higher ratios earlier to improve fuel economy.
In Sport mode however, the entire characteristics of the powertrain changes! The engine is always running, charging the battery to keep it topped up. Acceleration is much quicker with the feeling of more electricity deployment and gear shifts now at engine red line. After just a few quick burst of acceleration runs, I said out said out loud to my passenger, this hybrid system is what the Honda CR-Z with the CVT transmission should been equipped with back in 2012!
With the high output motor directly linked to the DCT, the acceleration is direct and instantaneous. It is a completely different feeling of the mass market hybrid image, where the electrification is used to fill the gap of the smaller capacity engine, and the electric motor provides assist. The Sport Hybrid i-DCD system is pretty much the same concept with BMW’s iPerformance hybrid system, where the electric power and motor is used to boost acceleration for a better driving experience.
Looking at the engine performance curve above, the sensation of continuous power can be seen on the horizontal line. The combination of the powerful motor and 1.5-litre engine is delivering the maximum 170 Nm all the way to 5,500 rpm, and over 130 PS.
At this engine revolution, the CR-Z is only delivering 150 Nm and on a downhill slope, and power is about 122 PS. Lower system output coupled to the heavier CR-Z CVT (around 1,200 kg), the 1,158 kg Jazz Sport Hybrid certainly felt like it will win all of the traffic light acceleration runs versus the CR-Z.
Around urban roads and highways, the Jazz Sport Hybrid suspension felt comfortable and pliant. The quicker steering ratio matches the stiffer rear suspension, making winding roads going up to the famous hill resort such a joy to drive.
Even on the 175-section tyres, the Jazz Sport Hybrid welcome you to enter the corner just a bit faster. A small input into the steering wheel angle and the Jazz happily turns in even more, in a fully composed and controlled body movement. Confidence inspiring, fun-to-drive accurately sums it up.
Cost of Ownership
Interestingly, the Jazz Sport Hybrid cost less to maintain compared to the Jazz i-Vtec. Over a period of 100,000 km or 5 years of ownership, the Hybrid, which does not require any maintenance on its DCT until 160,000km, cost a total of RM 2,867.95, which is RM 97 cheaper than the i-Vtec total cost. Expect less brake pad replacements in the Hybrid as the regenerative braking (motor turns to generator) takes up a lot of the initial deceleration energy of the car.
In terms of fuel economy, the Jazz Sport Hybrid is claimed to deliver 25 km to a litre of petrol. This is a 45% increase over the standard i-Vtec, which is rated at 17.2 km/litre. My test route of 380 km consists of a highways, crawls in the capital city’s gridlock traffic as well as the enthusiastic drive up to the hill resort yielded a very commendable 18.2 km/litre in the trip computer.
Honda Malaysia also warrants the lithium-ion traction battery for 8 years with unlimited mileage. This is on top of the 5-year unlimited mileage warranty for the vehicle.
We have compiled a more thorough comparison on the cost of ownership
here
.
Conclusion
The Jazz Sport Hybrid dynamic performance definitely lives up to its Sporty marketing moniker. This new generation of petrol-electric hybrid technology from Honda delivers a driving experience that premium brands are currently spearheading, better performance through more electrification.
At the price range of RM 85,000 and below, there is no product that can offer that always-unique experience of full EV drive, practicality, agility and of course, straight-line acceleration akin to a larger petrol engine car that is all packaged into the Jazz Sport Hybrid.
We just hope in the next round of product update, the exterior will have sportier items to match its incredible driving performance.


Despite The Pandemic Slowdown, BMW Is Set To Hit Its 2020 Targets

You could say
BMW
 is “cautiously optimistic” but despite a disastrous Q2 courtesy of the COVID-19 pandemic – they remain on course to hit their 2020 targets, having bagged profits before taxes of approximately EUR 500 million thus far.

 After implementing controlled cutbacks at many of its plants in March as a response to the foreseeable drop in global demand, BMW initiated a coordinated restart of its production facilities in the second quarter. Since mid-June, all its manufacturing plants have again been working in regular shifts.

Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG added, “Our swift responsiveness and consistent management strategy enabled us to limit the impact of the corona pandemic on the BMW Group during the first half of the year. We are now looking ahead to the second six-month period with cautious optimism and continue to target an EBIT margin between 0 and 3% for the automotive segment in 2020.”

Despite some rollbacks, the Group remains committed to its future development goals saying that it intends to invest more than EUR 30 billion in research and development up to 2025, as
stated previously
. Much of this expenditure will be concentrated on the company’s new wave of electrified products and the facilities to support that shift in technology and digitisation.

The figure includes expenses for the ongoing
electrification
 process and, in particular, for developing the BMW iNEXT. As previously reported, capital expenditure on property, plant and equipment as well as on other intangible assets is being undertaken on a prioritised, highly focused basis.

Another future milestone is the reduction of its CO2 emissions up to the year 2030 - from the supply chain to production and through to a vehicle’s end-of-life phase. Over this entire period, CO2 emissions per vehicle are to be reduced significantly by at least one third by 2030 compared with 2019 levels.

The key lever for achieving this target is a comprehensive product strategy that massively promotes the use of e-mobility. In ten years, the goal is to have a total of over seven million electrified BMW Group vehicles on the roads – some two-thirds of which will be all-electric models.

This product onslaught begins with the offering of five all-electric, series-produced automobiles in the form of the BMW i3, the MINI Cooper SE, the
BMW iX3
, the BMW iNEXT and the BMW i4. The next generation of the BMW 7 Series will mark a further important milestone – the first time the flagship model will be offered with four different drivetrains: petrol, diesel, hybrid, and full-electric or BEV.

During the first six months of the year, the BMW brand sold 842,153 units (down 21.7 percent), the MINI brand 118,862 units (down 31.1 percent) and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars 1,560 units (down 37.6 percent).

However, despite the overall sales volume decline, the number of electrified BMW and MINI vehicles delivered to customers rose to 61,652 units (up 3.4 percent) in the last six months- and is expected to result in further growth in this area in the second half of 2020.


Ford And Silicon Valley Team Up For Autonomous Vehicles, 3D Printing, Wearable Technology

Ford
 is planning to introduce new or improved technologies into not just its vehicles, but the production of them as well.
From improved autonomous driving, 3D printed parts, and connectivity, all these innovations are expected to make their way into future Ford vehicles.
Autonomous Vehicle Technology
For this endeavour, Ford has stepped up from a research effort to an advanced engineering program with appointed director of autonomous vehicle development Randy Visintainer at the helm.
Ford Research and Innovation Center Palo Alto is working on the global Ford team to deliver the Ford Smart Mobility plan, which aims to take the company to the next level in connectivity, mobility, autonomous vehicles, the customer experience and big data.
The advanced engineering phase is the second of three in the process of bringing a feature to market. In December 2013, they revealed the automated Fusion (
Mondeo in Malaysia
) Hybrid research vehicle that adds four LiDar (Light Detection and Ranging) sensors to scan the road around anything. The test vehicle was the first of many efforts to add improvements to Ford’s technology line-up.
3D Printed Parts
In December last year, Ford has been working with the company Carbon3D – developers of Continuous Liquid Interface Production technology (CLIP) – a 3D printing technology that grows parts from UV curable resins at speeds as much as 25 to 100 times faster than conventional 3D printing processes.
Not only are the parts made quicker, they are also of a high enough quality to be applicable for a range of needs for Ford vehicles. The resins used are able to damp vibrations, support loads or withstand high temperatures and Ford have produced elastomer grommets for the Ford Focus Electric and damping bumper parts for the Transit Connect.
“Our ability to innovate depends on how quickly we can move from idea to production,” Raj Nair, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development, said. “This technology enables us to quickly create automotive-grade parts for product design prototypes – and perhaps even production parts – faster than ever before, so we can deliver new vehicles to customers even sooner.”
Improving Connectivity
Ford have already announced that the
new SYNC 3 infotainment system
 will make its debut on the 2016
Ford Escape
 and
Fiesta
. Adding to that, they’ve also announced that development efforts are currently underway to extend connectivity innovations to wearable technology.
Coming soon for smartwatches will be the MyFord Mobile app which is already available on smartphones now, allowing customers to check on their vehicle status.


Beijing 2016: Peugeot 408 Shown with Three Engines

The second-generation Peugeot 408, essentially a
308
-derived sedan, is among the notable exhibits hosted by Peugeot’s booth at the ongoing 2016 Beijing Motor Show.
Based on the latest
308 hatchback
, the new 408 is a much larger vehicle than the model it replaces. It has grown from the predecessor’s 4,682mm overall length to stretch the tape measure to 4,750mm from stem-to-stern.
Wheelbase too has been accordingly lengthened from 2,710 to 2,730mm, and the new car is also slightly wider than its predecessor, spanning 1,820mm across its bow, as opposed to the previous model’s 1,815mm width. It sits lower, however, overall height dropping from 1,525mm to 1,488mm.
A selection of three engines are offered to the Chinese market. A naturally-aspirated 1.8-litre engine with outputs of 137hp and 172Nm is offered as the base model of the range and comes with a choice of 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmissions.
Above it come a pair of turbocharged engines displacing 1.2 and 1.6 litres, both mated with 6-speed auto gearboxes as standard. Outputs are rated at 1.2-litre 3-cylinder unit 134hp and 230Nm, whilst the 1.6 pushes out 165hp and 245Nm.
For the Malaysian market, we are looking at continued usage of the venerable 1.6-litre Prince engine which in the 308 is currently tuned to produce 150hp and 240Nm mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Curiously, despite the 408’s 308 underpinnings, Peugeot is also showing a China-exclusive 308 Sedan, which is underpinned by an extended wheelbase 308 platform. No details have been revealed on this vehicle.


Next Golf To Get Gesture Controls From Volkswagen's Golf R Touch Concept In 2016

Volkswagen brought its Golf R Touch concept to CES Asia 2015 in Shanghai where the auto giant, as the name suggests, again previewed its newest in-car interaction technology based on gesture controls. What’s more, there's been confirmation of it making its way to the facelifted Golf in late 2016.
Speaking to
AutoExpress
, Dr. Heinz-Jakob Neußer,
Volkswagen
’s head of powertrain development, said that this technology is ready to be introduced to production cars. “The interior features a preview of future VW interior technologies, with smartphone applications redefined for automotive use. The gesture control will become reality in the
Golf
 at the end of next year.”
That’s pretty much a confirmation to our ears. Of course, we’ve seen this
Golf R Touch concept before
 when it made the rounds at CES 2015 in Las Vegas, but its gesture interface turning into a consumer-facing feature is much more exciting.
And unlike the more recent Golf
concept
 cars we’ve seen at the Worthersee festival, this one will actually affect the car you might be buying next. The next big thing in your Golf: sci-fi gesture controls. Fans of Minority Report probably can’t wait to live out their futuristic fantaties.
Let’s talk about the
Golf R
 Touch concept for a moment. Specifically the interior, as that’s where the action is for this particular show car. Nearly all of its information panels have been replaced with LCD screens.
Should this layout be borrowed lock, stock, and barrel, the next Golf could have three screens and five in-car sensors. Motion and proximity sensors, most likely. The current Golf’s centre-mounted infotainment screen will be replaced by a considerably larger 13-inch hi-resolution unit and an 8-inch screen below that.
A 12.3-inch screen will take over duties from the current analogue instrument cluster. The ‘buttonless’ cabin will be operated through gesture control (such as toggling the air conditioning, stereo and sunroof, for example) as well as through the touchscreen with haptic feedback.


Volkswagen Cares – Free Educational Workshops for VW Owners

Volkswagen Malaysia has kicked off its Volkswagen Cares Programme series of free educational workshops for
Volkswagen
 owners across the country. First session of the series took place over the weekend at the Wearnes Sg Besi dealership attended by a total of 20 Volkswagen owners.
“We believe that by empowering our owners with the right knowledge, awareness, and education paired with the brand’s effort, we will be able to enhance the overall ownership experience for our customers. This is a testament that our customers are our top priority,” said Mr Armin Keller, Managing Director of Volkswagen Group Malaysia.
Planned to be a free quarterly activity to be initiated and conducted at dealership level, the Volkswagen Cares Programme was developed in an effort to enhance and improve the ownership experience for the brand’s customers.
Itinerary of the half-day programme consisted of a theory session covering topics such as fuel saving tips, child safety, to-dos in an emergency situation, and an in-depth explanation on the various advanced features found in Volkswagen vehicles and how to best utilize them.
Following that, the session adjourns to a hands-on demonstration by the dealership’s aftersales technicians of basic maintenance tips and how to self-conduct a simple inspection of one’s own vehicle.
“We see this as a good opportunity for us to interact with our customers and share useful and general tips as well as elaborate on the many features available in their Volkswagen cars. We hope to continue this initiative and run more Volkswagen Cares sessions in the future for our customers,” said Mr Goh Ngin Hong, Dealer Principal of Volkswagen Wearnes Sg Besi.


Fuel Price Update: 7 – 13 Sept - Petrol Up 4 Sen, Diesel Up 1 Sen

The Ministry of Domestic Trade, Cooperatives, and Consumerism (KPDNKK) has announced the latest price for petrol and diesel which will come into effect tomorrow.
While the price for RON95 and RON97 will increase by 4 sen each from RM2.16 and RM2.44 respectively, diesel price will also increase by 1 sen to RM2.05 per litre.
The new prices (per litre) from 7 – 13 September are listed below:
RON95 - RM2.20 (up 4 sen)
RON97 - RM2.48 (up 4 sen)
Diesel - RM2.05 (up 1 sen)


Ford to continue educating students on road safety through special programme

Ford
 Malaysia announced that it is going to continue its efforts to raise road safety awareness in Malaysia, especially among students, through its global Driving Skills for Life (DSFL) programme.
Held at the Taylor’s College Lakeside Campus and the German Malaysian Institute in January, the free-of-charge workshops were specially tailored to address challenges faced by young drivers, such as inexperience in dealing with unexpected situations, distracted driving, and the importance of ensuring child seats are securely fastened.
The tips are especially timely as many students prepare to drive home for the Chinese New Year holidays.
During the workshop, the sessions start in the classroom, with participants learning about a range of topics from steering control, to understeer and oversteer, to tips for highway driving and driving in the rain.
Participants also learn about the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol, by wearing specially designed gear that helps simulate the experience of driving while movement, coordination and alertness are impaired. Participants then move outside for a hands-on driving session to apply the learnings.
“Driving Skills for Life is a hands-on training programme designed to help drivers develop essential skills to stay safe on the road, which is especially important for newly licensed drivers like university students,” said David Westerman, managing director, Asia Pacific Emerging Markets, Ford Motor Company.
Ford DSFL is now in its ninth successful year of training licensed drivers of all ages. In addition to Malaysia, DSFL training is provided in China, India, Indonesia, Myanmar, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines.
Looking for a Ford? Find one at
Carlist.my
 now!


Honda Malaysia Issues Recall For The City And Jazz

Honda
 Malaysia has issued a recall for the fourth-generation Honda City (2014 year model) and the third-generation Honda Jazz (2015 year model) as a pre-emptive measure to rectify the hydraulic pressure control software involving the vehicles’ Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
12,232 units of the
Honda City
 and 97 units of the
Honda Jazz
 are part of the effort which involves rectifying the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) through a CVT software update that contains a stress reduction software.
In its press release, Honda Malaysia explains that the rapid engaging and releasing of the accelerator pedal at high speed can result in a build up of high hydraulic pressure. This in turn generates a high level of stress, which acts upon the driveshaft pulley and may cause the shaft to be broken, resulting in the vehicle experiencing a loss of power while driving.
It added that as of current, no crashes or injuries have been associated with this issue and the recall serves as a precautionary vehicle update to curb the issue.
All affected Honda customers will be informed via notification letters that contain the necessary details of the product update. Those who receive these letters are advised to send their vehicles to the nearest authorised Honda dealer for inspection. Any expenses incurred from the product update will be borne by Honda Malaysia.
Honda owners can also check their vehicle’s product update status by calling Honda’s Toll Free number at 1800-88-2020.


2017 Bentley Bentayga, The World's Fastest SUV Revealed Ahead Of Frankfurt Debut

After a drawn-out launch ramp,
Bentley
 has finally pulled back the sheets to reveal its Bentayga SUV. The vehicle that the German-owned British automaker brings into the fray as fastest and most powerful out there.
We’ve seen plenty of the Bentayga before, albeit covered up with camouflage, from
cold weather winter testing
 to
tackling some off-road terrain
 to a shockingly accurate
miniature model
. Now that it has been revealed, Bentley is gearing up for its full debut at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show.
This handmade SUV starts out life in Bentley’s manufacturing facility in Crewe, England and was intended to combine luxury, off-road ability, high performance, and everyday usability. Have they achieved that?
Up front we find a fascia that identifies itself clearly as a Bentley, there are four round LED headlamps that flank a large central matrix grille. This tapers to the lines that run down the side that resemble those on a
Continental GT
. There’s also an integrated skid plate, emphasizing its go-anywhere ability. Much of the car’s silhouette is identical to that seen on footage of its testing prototype.
The body itself is constructed of light aluminum and Bentley claims a weight saving of 236kg compared to a conventionally constructed body. Glass panels cover the majority of the Bentayga’s roof. Access to the cargo area is made easier with a hands-free electrically operable tailgate and folding seats allow for a very capacious and practical proposition.
Its all-new 6.0-litre twin-turbo W12 TSI engine will make quick work of any need for acceleration too with 600hp and 900Nm of torque available on tap, which enables the Bentayga to dispatch the century sprint in just 4.0 seconds and on to a top speed of 301km/h.
The new powertrain is fitted to an 8-speed ZF torque converter automatic, sending drive to all four wheels. Bentley claims this new package 11.9 percent more efficient that their existing powertrains.
The Bentayga’s interior is typical of Bentley’s luxurious standards with handcrafted wood and metal trim framing the high-quality leather upholstery. It can be configured in a four or five seat layout with the driver’s seat equipped with a six-program massage system, seat heating and ventilation.
There’s an 8-inch infotainment LCD touchscreen display that drives media through three audio system options including an 18-speaker arrangement by Naim that pushes 1,950 Watts.
Also equipped is Bentley’s Drive Dynamics Mode which provides eight driver-selectable modes which includes an optional Responsive Off-Road setting, as well as computer-controlled air springs with four different ride heights, Traffic Assist, Park Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Control.
Adding to the luxury, a bespoke mechanical Breitling Mulliner Tourbillon clock can also be specified. It is machined from solid gold, rose or white, with a selection of mother-of-pearl or black ebony face and decorated with eight diamond indexes.


Mercedes-Benz Wants To Make In-Car Gaming A Reality

If there ever was a reason for fully autonomous cars, this would be it. Mercedes-Benz is looking to revolutionize in-car entertainment with the In-Car Gaming Challenge - and no, it's not about seeing who's the better gamer from inside a moving vehicle. They are looking for exciting new ideas on all aspects of gaming, with the express intent to bring it to the world of automotive technology and making it a part of their future lineup of cars.
Mercedes-Benz is really opening it up to any and all ideas, from both individuals and startups with up to five participants. Even the gaming genres themselves are not defined or limited - anything from casual gaming to competitive gaming, car to car connectivity and so on and so forth. The German brand isn't expecting an outright solution, but rather an idea that can be grown and developed into something further down the line.
There has already been a proof of concept with the SuperTuxKart game that was put on display during the recent
Mobile World Congress
. In the all-new CLA, occupants could control the kart through the physical throttle, brake, and steering wheel - which makes for a truly immersive experience for players in a parked car. Further possibilities would be seat movements to simulate acceleration, seatbelt tightening for braking, and fragrances or air conditioning for wind effects.
Those who have an idea can enter one of three different categories: cars, buses, or as a mobile app. In all three scenarios the idea is to allow occupants to freely use their time when otherwise unoccupied with the business of driving. Judging this challenge will be ESL, or the Electronic Sports League; the prizes for the winners of the Challenge are a number of highly coveted tickets for ESL tournaments, money prizes and a very special opportunity: As a final stage the specialist departments at Daimler AG accompanying the Challenge will examine which concept has the greatest potential to be realised in a vehicle or as a Mercedes-Benz app. This winning concept will have the chance to be developed further with Daimler AG as a six-month pilot project.
Ideas for the Challenge can be submitted from 22 March to 16 May 2019 at:
http://www.in-car-gaming.com/


2016 Volkswagen Passat B8 – Three Variants, What To Expect

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia is set to launch the all-new Passat B8 in the middle of this month, and order books are expected to open soon.
Prices have yet to be announced, but at the
ongoing pre-launch media drive of the Passat B8
, VPCM officials have confirmed that three variants will be on offer, powered by either 1.8- or 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engines.
The new engines are the third-generation development of the EA888 family. Besides being turbocharged, they also feature variable valve lift and dual (direct & port) fuel injection to give a better optimized spread of power and torque across the rev range.
The 1.8 TSI engine is therefore not a carryover from the preceding B7 model but a significant redevelopment with uprated internals and components.
Outputs of the engines are as follows:
1.8 TSI:
180PS, 250Nm, 7-speed dry dual clutch transmission
2.0 TSI:
 220PS, 350Nm, 6-speed wet dual clutch transmission
Organization of the line-up sees the 1.8 TSI appear in two trim levels – base-spec Trendline and mid-spec Comfortline – whilst the 2.0 TSI gets the full bells and whistles in the Highline version. Key features of the three variants are listed below:
1.8 TSI Trendline
16-inch alloy wheels
Front & rear fog lamps
Halogen reflector headlamps, bulb-type DRL
Fabric seats – front with manual adjustment
Engine start button, no keyless entry
Steering-mounted controls
Conventional instrument cluster with colour info display
Parking sensors – front & rear
5-inch touchscreen
Brushed metal dashboard trim
1.8 TSI Comfortline

adds:
17-inch alloy wheels
LED headlights with DRLs
Leather seats – front with electric adjustment and memory
Engine start button, keyless entry, handsfree boot lid opening
Reverse Camera
6.5-inch touchscreen
Reverse camera
Park Assist 3.0
Paddle shifters
2.0 TSI Highline
 adds:
18-inch alloy wheels
Active Info Display – 12.3-inch TFT virtual instrument cluster
Wood dashboard trim
Electric sunshade
Satellite navigation
Lane Assist
Safety is standard across the range, with all variants getting things like electronic stability control, hill start assist, anti-lock brakes, and ISOFIX mounts. The 2.0 TSI, accounting for its superior performance, additionally gets XDS+ torque vectoring for better cornering behaviour.
Follow
this link for our sneak preview video
 of the all-new Passat B8 produced in collaboration with our friends from
Autofreaks.com
,
Malaysian EVO
, and
Roda Pusing
.


Lotus Celebrates 70 Years With An Exige, An Evora, And Plenty Of Tyres

While many manufacturers may lay claim to having a long, storied history and heritage (German brands come to mind), let's try to keep in mind that most pre-war exploits were very different from the automobiles we see today. While Lotus may be a little longer - not quite having hit the century mark as some manufacturers have - their 70 years of existence is nothing to sniff at, with plenty of motorsport exploits and notable models to date.
The last two decades has hardly seen a change at Lotus, partly due to finances limiting their development, but their current range of products has had plenty of time to mature and under the stewardship of a more experienced CEO, the small British sports-car company has adapted quickly to the most current consumer expectations. With Geely taking a large stake in the company and plenty of funding on the horizon, Lotus is likely to benefit from the Midas touch that has transformed once-struggling brands like Volvo.
To celebrate their 70th birthday, Lotus took to their Hethel test track with an Exige Sport 410 and Evora GT410 Sport, leaving a 70-theme skidmark on the test track's skidpan courtesy of many tyres. Piloted by Gavan Kershaw and Daniel Peck, two engineers at Lotus, the pair of cars lay rubber down across the giant circle to form the 70 motif, a reminder of the day Colin Chapman built his first competition car in his garage. Just 4 years later he formed Lotus Engineering and the rest is, as they say, history.


Terowong SMART berfungsi Baik – Hujan lebat 6 jam, tiada banjir

Hujan lebat yang berterusan selama 6 jam sejak malam tadi tidak menyebabkan banjir di ibu kota susulan Terowong SMART yang telah berfungsi dengan baik.

Pusat kawalan banjir terowong lebuh raya SMART (SMART SCC) berjaya menangani risiko banjir dengan mengawal aliran air ke pusat bandar raya, susulan hujan lebat sejak 11 malam tadi hingga 5 pagi ini.

Menurut kenyataan Jabatan Pengairan dan Saliran (JPS) dalam kenyataan hari ini berkata, SMART SCC telah mengurangkan aliran air sebanyak 256.16 meter padu per saat kepada hanya 10 meter padu per saat.

Menurut kenyataan itu, pusat berkenaan telah mengaktifkan operasi banjir kepada mode dua pada 1.28 pagi apabila aliran air di pertemuan Sungai Klang dan Sungai Ampang mencapai 70 meter padu per saat.

Seterusnya operasi turut diaktifkan untuk mode tiga pada pukul 2.08 pagi setelah aliran air di pertemuan di Sungai Klang dan Sungai Ampang mencapai 150 meter padu per saat.

Kenyataan itu turut memaklumkan semasa operasi mode ini, proses penyuraian dan penutupan terowong trafik dilaksanakan oleh Pusat Kawalan Trafik SMART (SMART MCC).

Terowong SMART ini telah dibuka semula untuk kegunaan umum pada 5.27 pagi.

Menurut JPS, sepanjang operasi tersebut, lebih 1 juta meter padu air dilencongkan dari Sungai Klang dan Sungai Ampang ke Kolam Takungan Berembang.


DRB-Hicom Introduces elite Card Loyalty Programme

The DRB-Hicom elite card is a new loyalty programme that has just been recently introduced, providing members with attractive rewards by awarding them with elite points when they spend with any participating elite merchants.
These points can then be used to redeem gifts online at
www.drb-hicomelite.com
. That’s not all because members who sign up will also benefit from special privileges like concierge and emergency roadside services to name a few.
As an introductory promotion, those who are interested are encouraged to visit the DRB-Hicom elite card booth at the Alami Proton Carnival 2015 this weekend (3-4 October from 10am to 7pm), where new signups, including registered Proton customers, will receive a bonus of 300 elite points. This offer is only valid during the event weekend.


RapidKL Plans To Transform Their Stations Into Do-Anything Hubs

It should be a habit to look to another nations for inspiration, especially where their innovations or advancements are something to be admired and spread. In the case of RapidKL, they’re looking to Japan’s Tokyo Central Railway station - the kind of station that has everything.
Should this ambitious undertaking come to form, Malaysians will (in a few years) be able to do a lot more at their nearest rail station - things like buy air tickets, renew road tax, pay bills, get their favourite coffee, or do a little light shopping, all in addition to commuting.
“We are re-engineering ourselves to meet the demand of users. We’re going for all the stations by 2020,” Prasarana group chief executive Datuk Azmi Abdul Aziz told The Star.
If they do base their likeness for this project to the Tokyo Central Railway Station, it could be that they intend to offer shops and services even beyond the ticket barriers.
“In Tokyo, you have people converging there not for the train but for the services,” he said.
It seems that Prasarana has already taken the first steps to this upgrade by reaching out to specific businesses. One example of this would be the Bukit Bintang Monorail station which has been recently renamed with AirAsia and as such has an airline ticket sales centre within it.
While this undertaking does not have a proper name just yet, Prasarana will reportedly be pursuing this concept of a more integrated hub-like station “aggressively” starting from 2016. Datuk Azmi admitted that many stations had a lot of empty and unused spaces both before and after the ticket gates.
He hopes that this would make the public, apart from encouraging the use of public transportation, view the stations as much more as mere transit points and that it would bring much more convenience to different parts along the various rail routes.
By 2020, when the transformation is slated to be completed, there are expected to be more than 130 RapidKL stations within the Klang Valley thanks to the addition of the MRT Line 1 and LRT3.


Thailand Considering Revising Taxes To Promote Electric Vehicles

Even after an excise tax revision by the government, the production and adoption of battery electric vehicles (BEV) in Thailand has been rather lukewarm.
According to a report by the Bangkok Post, an anonymous source at the Excise Department said that the department is considering a revision to the tax structure for conventional and hybrid vehicles by tightening the CO2 emission levels and their corresponding excise tax rate.
Plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEV) are only taxed 3% more than full battery electric vehicles (BEV)
Currently, BEVs which emit no CO2 are
taxed at 2%
,
 while the vehicles with a CO2 emission of under 100 grams per kilometre are taxed just 3% more (5%).
The source also said the current low tax rate for BEVs is not an incentive, so other measures are needed to encourage consumers to shift to driving BEVs. A lower price threshold, perhaps to under 1 million Baht (RM 127,000) will encourage more commuters to switch to BEV.
The Hyundai
Ioniq

Electric
 is currently priced at 1.749 million Baht (RM 222,000), while the world's best selling BEV, the Nissan Leaf, is only slated for sales next year.

However, the larger problem of slow conversion to BEVs is actually the electric charging infrastructure. Without proper public charging facilities, users will shy away from BEVs.
The Thailand Excise Department is reported to be working on details of the tax package, including the excise tax on BEVs, with the aim of supporting targeted new high-growth ‘S-curve’ industries.
Closer to home, under the old National Automotive Policy (NAP 2014), undisclosed customized incentives were given to vehicles that met the EEV standard. The customized incentives are then applied to reduce the retail prices of these plug-in hybrid vehicles, such as the BMW X5 xDrive40e stating a reduction of over RM 190,000 to retail at RM 390,800.
Location of ChargEV chargers at
their website
BMW Malaysia, which is Malaysia’s largest plug-in hybrid vehicle producer, also
 contributed to expanding the public EV charging infrastructure ChargEV
 with GreenTech Malaysia since 2015. ChargEV network has about 400 EV charging stations nationwide.


Two men were arrested following investigation into stolen catalytic converters

Selangor police chief, Comm Datuk Hussein Omar Khan, announced the arrest of two men following an investigation into stolen catalytic converters in Petaling Jaya.

The first suspect was apprehended in Petaling Jaya, and after questioning, the second suspect was caught in Jalan Ipoh on Sunday.

During a press conference at the Selangor police contingent headquarters, Comm Hussein revealed that both suspects are between 30 and 40 years old. He stated that the stolen catalytic converters were believed to have been sold to other syndicates, with each converter fetching prices ranging from RM300 to RM600.

The chief mentioned that the valuable metals, including platinum and palladium, found inside the converters would likely be scrapped and sold. The first suspect, who worked at a car parts shop, possessed the skill to remove converters from cars in under 16 minutes.

The police discovered 45 suspected stolen converters in possession of the second suspect. Comm Hussein explained that although cars can function without converters, victims would notice a significant change in noise. He also noted that both suspects had no prior criminal records.

The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) acknowledged the potential involvement of international syndicates in the recent rise of catalytic converter thefts. Local syndicates have been engaging in these thefts and selling the stolen converters in international markets like the United States and Japan.

The arrests of the two main suspects are expected to hinder the syndicate's ability to sell these components abroad. The police are currently investigating the syndicate's methods of international sales and pursuing further leads to apprehend those involved.

Catalytic converters hold significant value not only in the local market, where they can be sold for RM300 to RM600 per unit, but also in the international market. The precious metals contained in these converters, such as rhodium, palladium, and platinum, have values ranging from RM130 to RM350 per gram. These metals are sought after in industries such as electronics, dentistry, and medical fields for various applications, including the production of bone plates.

Due to the demand for these components in foreign markets, thieves target catalytic converters to quickly acquire cash. Estimated prices in foreign markets range from RM500 to RM2,500 per unit.

The police recorded 46 theft cases in 2021, 34 cases in 2022, and 16 cases in the first half of this year until June 17. The syndicate, believed to have operated for about a year, focuses on vehicles parked alongside roads and in secluded areas.

The syndicate members possess expertise in swiftly cutting and removing valuable exhaust components, likely due to their experience in the vehicle spare parts industry.


Wanita Perlu Tahu - 6 Lampu Amaran Pada Kereta

Bukan semua orang ambil tahu dan hafal lampu amaran yang menyala di dashboard kereta. Namun, sebagai wanita, penting untuk mengenalinya supaya kita boleh bersedia untuk sebarang kemungkinan jika lampu amaran menyala ketika memandu.

Di sini kami senaraikan 6 lampu amaran pada kereta anda yang boleh mendatangkan bahaya jika tidak ‘dirawat’ dengan segera.

1. Lampu amaran tekanan minyak

Kenapa Menyala:
 Indikator ini (juga dipanggil lampu Aladdin atau teko) akan menyala selama satu atau dua saat ketika menghidupkan
enjin kereta
 dan kemudian hilang. Tetapi tanda amaran akan muncul apabila sensor enjin mengesan tekanan minyak berada di bawah paras selamat.

Ini bermakna kereta anda kemungkinan berlaku kebocoran penggunaan minyak atau kerosakan pam minyak (
oil pump
). Perlu tindakan segera kerana minyak tidak mengalir dengan betul ke dalam enjin. Kekurangan
minyak hitam
 akibat kebocoran juga boleh menyebabkan lampu ini menyala.

Tindakan:
Pertama, anda dinasihatkan untuk menghentikan kenderaan anda di kawasan yang selamat dan terus matikan enjin. Seterusnya, anda perlu memeriksa paras
minyak enjin
 pada bahagian hadapan kenderaan anda. Sekiranya minyak enjin masih ada dan mencukupi, anda dinasihatkan untuk memandu kenderaan anda ke bengkel berdekatan bagi membuat pemeriksaan yang selanjutnya.

2. Lampu amaran enjin kereta

Kenapa Menyala:
 Indikator Check Engine ini menyala berkemungkinan disebabkan kereta anda ada masalah
enjin
, transmisi, suspensi atau masalah brek. Jalan terbaik untuk mengenal pasti masalah ini adalah dengan melakukan pemeriksaan atau diagnosis secara lebih mendalam.

Sedang anda memandu, tiba-tiba lampu amaran kereta ini menyala. Masih boleh pandu atau tidak?

Tindakan:
 Apabila lampu enjin kereta anda menyala semasa anda memandu, anda masih boleh teruskan pemanduan. Namun, anda harus mendapatkan pemeriksaan selanjutnya dengan kadar segera. Meskipun begitu, sekiranya anda mendapati terdapat perbezaan ketara dari segi pemanduan seperti pemanduan yang tidak lancar, enjin bergegar atau berbunyi, anda dinasihatkan untuk berhenti di kawasan selamat dan hubungi pihak insurans kereta untuk servis trak tunda.

3. Lampu amaran suhu enjin

Kenapa Menyala:
Apabila indikator enjin
coolant
 menyala merah, itu bermakna suhu coolant melebihi darjah selamat dan enjin terlampau panas. Kemungkinan ada kebocoran
coolant
, gelembung udara dalam sistem penyejukan atau pam penyejuk gagal berfungsi. Amaran ini penting dan perlu bertindak segera kerana enjin berisiko tinggi mengalami kerosakan teruk.

Tindakan:
 Jangan panik! Segera berhenti di bahu jalan dan biarkan enjin berjalan seperti biasa tanpa menekan
pedal minyak
. Hidupkan penyaman udara. Jangan terus matikan enjin, tunggu sekejap sebelum dimatikan.

Namun, jika tanda
kebocoran
 dikesan, enjin mesti dimatikan segera. Antara tanda itu ialah bau gula hangit, wap keluar dari bawah bonet atau nampak cecair panas mengalir bawah kenderaan. Jika salah satu tanda itu dikesan, tindakan terbaik adalah mematikan enjin atau biarkan enjin
idle
 beberapa saat untuk menyejukkannya sebelum enjin dimatikan.

Setelah lampu amaran suhu enjin tidak menyala, lebih baik untuk terus ke bengkel bagi pemeriksaan lanjut. Jika ia masih menyala setelah enjin dihidupkan semula, terus hubungi pihak insurans untuk tunda kereta anda ke bengkel.

4. Lampu amaran brek

Kenapa Menyala:
 Ada beberapa sebab kenapa lampu brek menyala. Ini mungkin disebabkan mentol lampu brek terbakar atau kehilangan sejumlah kemampuan membrek pada kenderaan. Boleh jadi juga anda cuma terlupa melepaskan brek tangan atau brek parkir.

Selain itu, pad brek yang haus boleh menyalakan indikator ini. Jika pedal brek terasa
spongy
 atau tenggelam sepenuhnya ketika ditekan, ia menandakan masalah kritikal pada sistem brek yang memerlukan pembaikan segera.

Tindakan:
 Periksa brek tangan dan lepas segera jika ditarik. Jika lampu amaran brek masih menyala ketika memandu, anda boleh dianggap sedang memandu tanpa brek. Segera aktifkan lampu kecemasan (
hazard light
) dan berhenti di bahu jalan yang selamat.

Sebaik saja anda selamat berhenti, periksa paras minyak brek. Jangan terus memandu jika minyak brek pada paras rendah kerana masalah mungkin menimpa bahagian lain dalam sistem pembrekan seperti sensor Sistem Brek Anti-Kunci (ABS) atau masalah pendawaian lampu brek. Bawa secepatnya ke
bengkel
 untuk pemeriksaan.

5. Lampu amaran ABS

Kenapa Menyala:
 Sistem brek anti-kunci atau anti-lock braking system (
ABS
) adalah salah satu sistem keselamatan kenderaan yang berfungsi untuk memastikan tayar tidak terkunci di bawah daya pembrekan tinggi. Penjagaan sistem ini sangat penting untuk menjamin keselamatan di jalan raya. Antara punca lampu amaran kereta ini menyala adalah kekurangan minyak brek, kerosakan fius, pam hidraulik haus, sensor kelajuan bermasalah dan kerosakan modul ABS.

Tindakan:
 Sekiranya lampu ABS menyala ketika memandu, anda disarankan untuk mencari tempat yang selamat untuk berhenti dan matikan enjin untuk seketika. Kemudian, hidupkan semula enjin kereta anda.

Menghidupkan semula enjin boleh memulakan semula sistem (
system restart
) dan sistem akan memeriksa semula semua
sensor
 untuk mengesan sebarang kerosakan dalam sistem ABS. Biasanya, cara ini boleh membantu menyelesaikan masalah lampu ABS menyala.

Namun begitu, dalam sesetengah keadaan, cara ini mungkin tidak membantu. Jika lampu ABS masih menyala setelah
system restart
, bawa kereta anda ke bengkel berdekatan untuk pemeriksaan lanjut. Berhati-hati ketika memandu dan elakkan brek secara agresif atau cepat.

6. Lampu amaran bateri

Kenapa Menyala:
 Indikator
bateri
 yang menyala menandakan sama ada bateri
kong
 atau masalah sistem pengecasan bateri kereta anda.

Tindakan:
 Jangan teruskan pemanduan kerana kereta anda mungkin akan ‘mati’ pada bila-bila masa di tengah jalan. Sebaiknya, tutup radio dan penghawa dingin kereta dan berhenti di bahu jalan dengan selamat. Dapatkan khidmat tundaan pihak insurans dan segera ke bengkel untuk pemeriksaan lanjut.

Lampu amaran kereta di atas adalah indikator kepada pemandu bahawa kereta anda sedang mempunyai masalah. Lakukan pemeriksaan segera sekiranya lampu amaran tersebut menyala. Jika anda melengah atau mengabaikan lampu amaran tersebut, komponen lain berpotensi untuk turut rosak dan kos membaiki boleh mencecah ribuan ringgit jika dibiarkan berlarutan.

Jadi, sebelum anda terpaksa mengeluarkan duit yang banyak, setiap kali lampu amaran kereta tersebut menyala, ambil tindakan, lakukan pemeriksaan dan hantar ke bengkel jika perlu.


MBSJ gets Honda Civic FE as new patrol car

The
Subang Jaya City Council (MBSJ)
 has received its latest official patrol car in the form of the
2022 Honda Civic FE
.

The official handover for the MBSJ's traffic enforcement arm was done by Shared Auto Cars Sdn Bhd's director, Firdaus Mohamed, and gifted to Subang Jaya's mayor, YBrs. Tuan Mohd Fauzi bin Mohd Yatim, accompanied by other senior officials from MBSJ.

We're not entirely sure what the Honda Civic FE V variant will be used mainly for, but whatever it is, we kind of like the colourway on the Civic FE.

Priced at RM138k (OTR excluding insurance), the Honda Civic FE V variant is powered by a 1.5-litre VTEC turbo engine that produces 182PS and 240Nm of torque as well as being mated to an updated CVT transmission.

We have had a number of occasions where we got behind the wheel of the latest Honda Civic range and we were impressed every time. To make things even more interesting, Jim had a go between the Honda Civic FE RS and the Mazda 3 Sedan. Check out the video, below.


Mercedes-AMG Project One Testing – Making F1 Tech Roadworthy

It goes from 0 to 200 km/h in less than 6 seconds, it’s got a top speed of over 350 km/h, and it packs the same engine as the one in Lewis Hamilton’s Formula 1 car – and it’s all slowly but surely becoming a reality.
Unveiled for the first time at the
 2017 IAA Frankfurt International Auto Show
, in conjunction with AMG’s 50th anniversary, the Project One has been intensively worked on behind closed doors for several months in a highly complex, digital development process – dubbed Project ONE Virtual Engineering.
Hundreds of testing hours have already been spent in the pursuit of making the high-performance drivetrain ready for series production and road use.
The Project One’s 1.6-litre V6 direct injected petrol-electric hybrid unit with electric turbocharging, rumoured to produce over 1000 hp (at 11,000 rpm), has been undergoing the toughest race track tests at Mercedes-AMG's High-Performance Powertrains (HPP) dyno-facility in Brixworth, UK.
The Project One’s highly-advanced hybrid power unit is aided by four electric motors. The first (90 kW motor) is connected via a shaft to the spin the turbocharger to 100,000 rpm – eliminating any turbo lag, the second is 120 kW unit located at the crankshaft, the third and fourth motors are located on the front axle, one driving each wheel which not only provides drive but also recoups energy via selective regenerative braking.
Drive from the engine is sent to the rear wheels via an automated 8-speed manual transmission that has been developed exclusively for the Project One. The transmission is activated hydraulically and can be operated in an automated mode or manually using the shift paddles.
The lithium-ion high voltage batteries used in the Project One are the same packs used in the F1 car, albeit with fewer battery cells, which have been adapted for road use.
The Project One team at HPP Brixworth works closely with Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport team in Brackley, UK, with engineers from Mercedes-AMG’s division in Affalterbach, Germany assuming overall execution of the project.
The successful completion of the dyno tests has been followed by the installation of the complex powertrain into the first prototypes, which have since been driving around on a secret test ground in England.


J.D. Power Acquired By XIO Group

Consultancy and consumer studies are big business. Data, big data, is priceless- which is why companies like Facebook and Google collect so much of it. But to gather data for a specific context and situation, for a specific demographic or customer base, requires the work of a consumer studies expert- one like J.D. Power.
The company has operated in various markets around the world, and is known primarily for their automotive market surveys for customer satisfaction and vehicle reliability. Back in 2005, it was acquired by McGraw Hill Financial Inc., where it continued to provide customer survey and analysis to various companies. This year sees the company trading hands once again after being put up for auction. The new owners are XIO Group, which are based out of London, Shanghai, and Hong Kong. They beat out Advent International Corp. for the bid, according to an April report by Reuters, with a 1.1 billion USD acquisition of the company.
While the acquisition is not necessarily any cause for concern, the focus for the company may shift in the coming months. So far the word is that they are planning to boost and bolster their global operation, but XIO is focused primarily on pushing in high-growth markets- not necessarily established ones. J.D. Power currently employs over 700 people and is based out of California. Estimated revenue for the company this year is a solid 350 million USD.


Lori Tunda Didakwa Larikan Kereta Tersadai Akibat Banjir – Sindiket Curi Kereta?

Banjir besar
 yang berlaku baru-baru ini benar-benar menguji sesetengah penduduk di Malaysia di mana bencana tersebut telah menyebabkan kerosakan pelbagai harta benda dan tempat tinggal, malah ada yang kehilangan nyawa.

Di dalam kesusahan dan keresahan sesetengah penduduk di Malaysia yang terkesan akibat banjir itu, ternyata masih ada pihak yang mengambil kesempatan di atas kesusahan orang lain untuk kepentingan diri sendiri.

Menerusi perkongsian yang dibuat di Instagram Story oleh pemilik yang menggunakan nama @wangi_by_cinta, kereta
Honda City
 miliknya yang tersadai akibat banjir hampir dilarikan oleh sebuah lori tunda yang tidak diketahui asal-usulnya.

Menurut perkongsian pengguna terbabit, lori tunda itu dikatakan sedang aktif mengangkut kereta yang tersadai akibat banjir diluar sana. Namun nasib beliau sangat baik apabila anak buah serta kawannya sempat menahan lori terbabit sebelum melarikan kereta miliknya.

Tambahnya, geng lori tunda terbabit juga telah bertindak menanggalkan dan membuang
nombor plat
 dari keretanya tanpa sebarang sebab yang munasabah. Tindakan tersebut telah menambah kecurigaan terhadap lori tunda berikut.

Berdasarkan gambar yang dikongsikan, lori tunda itu merupakan lori jenis
Hino
 yang mempunyai nombor pendaftaran WXC 3048. Lori itu juga didaftarkan di bawah syarikat Sparks Motors Rescue Empire yang bertempat di Telok Gadong, Klang.

Hasil siasatan netizen, seorang bekas pekerja di syarikat berkenaan telah berjaya dikesan di Facebook untuk mendapatkan penjelasan sebenar berhubung perkara ini. Namun setelah ditanya, beliau menjelaskan bahawa beliau telah berhenti kerana kurang senang dengan tindakan majikan di syarikat berkenaan yang gemar memotong gaji pekerja sesuka hati.

Meskipun tidak mengetahui apa-apa tentang isu ini, beliau telah memberi kerjasama dengan memberikan maklumat berkenaan bekas majikannya dengan meninggalkan nombor telefon dan alamat dalam usaha mengesan bekas majikannya bagi mendapatkan penjelasan.

Walau bagaimanapun, sehingga kini masih tiada pengesahan daripada pihak berkuasa mengenai isu ini. Kehadiran lori tunda itu juga masih tidak ketahui. Mungkin juga mereka telah mendapat arahan daripada pihak berkuasa untuk mengosongkan jalan raya bagi memastikan kelancaran lalu lintas.

Tapi mungkin juga mereka ini merupakan dalang tidak berhati perut yang sanggup mencuri dikala orang ramai sedang resah dan berduka. Tindakan lori tunda ini telah menimbulkan rasa kurang senang pemilik kenderaan, terutama bagi mereka yang meninggalkan kereta rosak yang tersadai akibat banjir.

Bagi mereka yang masih mempunyai kereta yang tersadai di tepi-tepi jalan akibat banjir, rajin-rajinlah untuk tengok kereta anda dan pastikan kereta anda masih berada disitu. Jika benar trak tunda berkenaan mahu mencuri kereta yang tersadai, diharapkan pihak polis dapat turun padang untuk memastikan masalah kecurian kereta dapat diatasi.


New York 2018: Toyota Unveils Rugged All-New RAV4 with Dynamic Torque Vectoring

Unveiled at the ongoing New York Auto Show 2018 is one of Toyota’s most important product in North America – the Toyota RAV4.
The originator of the sedan-based crossover is now in its fifth generation. Utilizing the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) 'K platform', the new RAV4 promises to drive better thanks to the lower centre of gravity, 57 percent more rigid body shell as well as wider front and rear tracks. Ride comfort is also greatly improved with the adoption of a multi-link rear suspension.
Designers kept in mind design elements of ‘Adventure’ and ‘Refined’. A lowered glasshouse (more glass area) and enlarged quarter window on the distinctive C-pillar design increases visibility for occupants, as well as adding more light into the cabin.
Large overfenders, bold hexagonal grille with different patterns, roof rails, two-tone colour scheme and gloss black treatment are applied to different variants available - XSE, Limited and Adventure.
Overall, the all-new RAV4 has styling that is closer to a more rugged SUV than a crossover, a segment which the RAV4 itself created.
Compared to its key competitors, the new RAV4 is the same width as the Honda CR-V at 1,855mm. The Mazda CX-5 has wheelbase that is 10 mm longer, and all three models are under 4,600 mm in length.
Inside, a digital display rear view mirror makes its debut in a Toyota. The display can change between normal rear view mirror mode or an increased visibility mode, displaying everything behind the RAV4. The instrument panel houses an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay connectivity that is perched atop the centre stack and plenty of storage spaces.
Making its debut as part of TNGA suite of new technologies is the Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD with Rear Driveline Disconnect. In essence, this AWD system not only intelligently varies the torque split of the front and rear axle (i.e. 80:20), it also varies the torque split from side-to-side on the rear axle.
The new rear differential operates by using a pair of left and right clutches to control torque. Independently controlling the torque using clutches rather than braking system improves response time and ultimately allow for much better cornering performance and agility. The Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD also works together with the Multi Terrain-Select feature for true off-road capabilities.
Engine choices for the RAV4 are two 2.5-litre engines - a regular petrol and a petrol-hybrid. Both engines feature the Dynamic Force technologies which achieves 40 percent thermal efficiency for minimum fuel consumption as well as responsive acceleration. These two engines are also available in the new Toyota Camry, with the 2.5-litre naturally aspirated delivering 203 hp and the hybrid delivering a net system output of 208 hp.
Toyota is also equipping the all-new RAV4 with the next generation Toyota Safety Sense (TSS). The TSS safety suite comprise of various front sensors, cameras and radar to offer features like Pre-Collision System, dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert and lane tracing assist.
Toyota USA is only planning the sale of the all-new RAV4 from end of this year, starting with the petrol engine.
Closer to home,
we have been told back in 2017 that there are firm plans to introduce the all-new RAV4
regionally. With the region having a tax scheme that punishes large capacity engines, there could be a high possibility that the ASEAN RAV4 will be fitted with a more tax friendly 2.0-litre engine. A mid-sized SUV is more than welcomed for UMWT’s SUV line-up, bridging the gap between the
newly-launched compact Toyota C-HR
 and the full-sized, body-on-frame Toyota Fortuner.


Perodua D38L SUV To Debut At KLIMS 2018 – Below RM80k, Reskinned Indonesian Terios

Perodua’s follow-up to the short-lived Nautica is set to make its debut at the upcoming Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show (KLIMS) in November.
Sources familiar with the matter have indicated that unlike the Nautica, Perodua’s latest SUV (codenamed D38L) will be a seven-seater and contrary to earlier reports, will not be based on any of the Daihatsu concepts shown at last year’s Jakarta Motor Show – namely the five-seater Daihatsu DN Trec Concept and the six-seater DN Multisix Concept.
Instead, Perodua’s all-new SUV will be based on the existing Daihatsu Terios that’s already on sale in Indonesia, but with minor changes to the body panels, bumpers, grille and exterior lights to feature with Perodua’s own unique styling.
As a seven-seater SUV, the model will be aimed at the Honda BR-V, which currently sells for between RM 78,167 (1.5E) and RM 84,591 (1.5V). Prices quoted are excluding insurance, GST and SST.
While Perodua has yet to finalize the details on the SUV’s pricing, we are quite certain that it will not breach the circa RM 80,000 floor price set by the entry variant Honda BR-V.
In addition to that, Perodua’s President and CEO Datuk Dr. Aminar Rashid Salleh has, in the past, alluded that the all-new SUV will be priced higher than RM 60,000, adding that the challenge for his team is now to move Perodua away from being seen as merely a maker of budget cars, but instead as a brand that offers a superior total package – good customer care, excellent reliability and value for money.
Unlike the previous Japan-made Perodua Nautica (a rebadged five-seater Japanese market Daihatsu Terios), Perodua’s upcoming SUV will be manufactured at the company’s plant in Rawang. The Indonesian market seven-seater Daihatsu Terios (also sold as the Toyota Rush) is manufactured at the Astra Daihatsu Motor plant in Sunter, located in the outskirts of Jakarta. The plant also supplies the Terios to Toyota under contract, who then sells the model under the Toyota Rush nameplate.
The Indonesian-market Terios/Rush is powered by an iron-block 2NR-VE 1.5-litre Dual VVT-i engine that’s also shared with the Perodua Myvi. Despite the similar capacity and NR family code, this engine is different from the aluminum block 1.5-litre Dual VVT-i used by the Toyota Vios. Drive is transferred to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual or a four-speed torque converter automatic. There are no four- or all-wheel drive option.


Fuel Price Update: 3rd to 9th August - 2 Sen Down For RON 97

The Ministry of Finance Malaysia has announced the updated prices of petrol and diesel fuels starting from the 3rd to 9th of August.
The price of RON97 petrol will decrease by 2 sen to RM 2.54 per litre, while the price of RON95 petrol is capped at RM 2.08 per litre.
The price of diesel will remain capped at RM 2.18 per litre for Euro 2M and RM 2.28 for Euro 5 respectively.
In summary, the prices for petrol and diesel are listed below:
RON95 – RM 2.08 per litre (unchanged, capped)
RON97 – RM 2.54 per litre (down 2 sen)
Diesel Euro 2M – RM 2.18 per litre (unchanged, capped)
Diesel Euro 5M – RM 2.28 per litre (unchanged, capped)


2018 Toyota C-HR Spotted Ahead Of DRIVE

Perhaps one of the most high-anticipated models in Malaysia has been spotted in here, ahead of this weekend's DRIVE event.
Though still covered in heavy covers, we can confirm that this is in fact the Toyota C-HR, as evident by the design of its 17-inch alloy wheels.
Sources say that the model displayed here is an Australian spec Toyota C-HR, which will differ slightly from the model we will be receiving come 2018. We understood that when the Toyota C-HR arrives here, power will come from a 1.8-litre engine mated to a CVT-type automatic.

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September 28, 2016

This weekend’s
DRIVE event
 will allow members of the public to shop, test drive and compare more than 50 models from 15 different car brands in one location. Register your interest
here
 to win a Touch ‘N Go card with RM30 preloaded value. On top of that, the first 400 visitors to register and complete a test drive will receive a Caltex petrol voucher worth RM30.


MAI Pushing For 100% EEV by 2025

By 2025, Malaysia Automotive Institute (MAI) expects all new models to be only energy efficient vehicles (EEV).
Speaking to
SunBiz
, MAI boss Datuk Madani Sahari said, “I believe by 2025, all new models to be sold in Malaysia will definitely be EEVs.”
As of 2016, the penetration of EEV is 42.8%, exceeding MAI’s original target of 40%. He said that 42.8% is a good achievement, as it shows that car manufacturers are adjusting their business plans in line with the NAP 2014.
Despite that, it does not mean that all vehicles on the road will be EEVs by 2025, as there will be older vehicles that aren’t EEVs.
For 2017, MAI expects the EEV penetration to reach 50%. Three years later in 2020, the penetration rate is expected to be 80%.
Currently, 59 new vehicles sold in Malaysia have been certified by MAI as an EEV, which includes the
Perodua Bezza
,
Perodua Axia
,
Honda City
,
Honda Jazz
,
Toyota Vios
,
Toyota Fortuner
, among others.