Review: BMW G14 8 Series Convertible – Striking The Right Balance

Only a couple of months ago, BMW Malaysia took the wraps off what is arguably the sexiest product in their portfolio at the moment – the all-new G15 8 Series Coupe.
Some may argue that the i8 is sexier, but as impressive as it is, electric is electric and it will never touch your soul quite like the roar of a good ol’ V8 engine, will it?
And that is exactly why we were salivating all over the new 8, powered by BMW’s 4.4-litre TwinPower Turbo V8 engine, kicking out a massive 530 hp and 750 Nm of torque.
Thanks to the powertrain package, the 8 sprints from naught to 100 in just 3.7-seconds, and boy does it sound good when it comes to life!
So, as we were thinking that it couldn’t get any better than this in BMW Malaysia’s stable - at least for time being - we found out that the even sexier, topless version of the 8 Series could be headed our way.
So, in order to find out if the convertible is any better than the coupe, we spent some time with the 8 Convertible in the laid back town of Faro, Portugal to see what exactly it has to offer.
Specifications
Engine: 4.4-litre TwinPower Turbo V8, petrol
Transmission:  8-speed automatic
Max Power: 530 PS from 5,500 to 6,000 rpm
Max Torque: 750 Nm from 1,800 to 4,600 rpm
Origin: Assembled in Dingolfing, Germany
Overview
Unveiled in November 2018, the G14 BMW 8 Series Convertible is available in two variants - the M850i xDrive and the diesel-powered 840d xDrive.
While the M850i xDrive is powered by the same 4.4-litre TwinPower Turbo V8 engine as the coupe which produces 530 hp and 750 Nm, the 840d xDrive gets a 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder turbodiesel engine that makes 320 hp and 680 Nm.
Both variants get the same 8-speed automatic transmission and BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive system. Further complementing the whole package is the M Adaptive suspension, with double-wishbones in front, and a multi-link setup in the rear.
Performance wise, the M850i Convertible does the century sprint in 3.9 seconds, which is 0.2 seconds slower than the coupe, while the 840d does it in 5.2 seconds, which is 0.3 seconds slower than its coupe counterpart.
Speaking of siblings and counterparts, the 8 Series reminded us a lot of the 6 Series which was a full-blown grand tourer. The 8 here however, is also a grand tourer even though the folks at BMW refer to it as a luxury sports car.
The version which we sampled was of course the more powerful M850i xDrive, which is more relevant to our market.
Exterior
On the exterior, the 8 Series Convertible is almost identical to the coupe, with only a few differences.
The main difference is of course, the folding fabric roof which operates in 15 seconds and can function at speeds up to 50 km/h. In addition to the folding roof, the convertible gets new cross struts, new panels for the underbody, third brake light that is integrated into the boot lid, and aluminium roll over bars for added safety.
Because of these additional components, the 8 Series Convertible weighs about 100 kg more than the coupe, which also explains why it does the century sprint two-tenths of a second slower than the coupe.
Besides that, everything has been carried over from the coupe lock, stock, and barrel. Key exterior features include BMW Laser headlights, LED DRLs, 20-inch wheels, and since the model we tested was clad in M Performance kit, it came with sporty bumpers, as well as kidney grilles and logos finished in Cerium Grey.
Does it look better than the coupe? Well, it depends on what a buyer is looking for.
While the coupe looks more aggressive and sporty, the convertible here looks more "relaxed", and definitely more luxurious than its sibling. When seen from certain angles, it even looks like a bigger version of the new Z4.
Measuring 4,843 mm long, 1,902 mm wide, 1,339 mm tall, with a 2,822 mm-long wheelbase, there is no difference in terms of dimensions between the cabriolet and the coupe.
However, if we are to compare it with the 6 Series just to put things into perspective, the 8 is 43 mm shorter, 23 mm lower, and 8 mm wider, which puts this car somewhere between an S-Class Coupe and the Porsche 911 in terms of size.
Now that the numbers and figures are out of the way, time to answer the important question of “does the cabriolet look better than the coupe?” With the top down, hell-yeah it does!
But with the roof up, owners have to get the body and roof colour combination right in order to really make it stand out compared to its rivals like the Porsche 911 Cabriolet, Bentley Continental GT Convertible, and the Aston Martin DB11 Volante.
There are seven exterior colour options and a wide range of personalisation options available under BMW Individual collection, so owners can actually knock themselves out when it comes to picking the right colours.
Interior
Inside, the 8 cabriolet is a carbon-copy of the coupe. It’s fitted with M Sport steering wheel, M pedals and footrest, Merino genuine leather seats, and a dashboard that is unique to the 8 Series family.
Providing the driver with all the necessary information is the 12.3-inch BMW Live Cockpit Professional digital instrument display which takes some time to get used to, as well as the 10.25-inch screen in the middle of the dashboard, both of which are running on the latest BMW Operating System 7.0.
Unlike most instrument panels where the speedometer and the rev meters move clockwise, BMW's Live Cockpit Pro has the rev meter moving anti-clockwise. On top of that, we have a whole lot of information - from who sang the current song you're listening to, to the navigation map - being displayed within the 12.3-inch screen.
With so much happening, it definitely took us some time to familiarise outrselves with the system as we didn't know where to focus.
Below the central display, is a pretty straight forward air-cond control panel followed by a compartment with two cubby holes and also a wireless smartphone charging dock.
Further down below is the gorgeous crystal glass gear lever which sits next to the iDrive dial, and the buttons to choose between driving modes as well as the suspension settings.
Unlike most sports cars which are fully loaded with Alcantara and carbon fibre trims inside the cabin, the 8 Convertible feels way plusher and easier on the eyes thanks to items like the generous dose of leather upholstery and the crystal glass gear lever among others.
It may not be as visually appealing as cars like the Aston Martin DBS Superleggera Volante or the Bentley Continental GT Convertible, but it is still quite a welcoming cabin to be in.
In terms of setbacks, there are two issues with the 8 Convertible. Firstly, the rear seats are useless. Even the folks from Munich whom we were talking to during the drive said that they are more of a place to store things instead of human beings.
Secondly, the topless 8 does not come with BMW’s Gesture Control feature which is available in the Coupe.
This is because the sensors that are needed for the feature are actually positioned on the roof close to the front windscreen. So, since the convertible’s roof is retractable, the sensors could not be fitted, hence the lack of Gesture Control, which happens to be one of the coolest features in new models from Munich.
Driving Impression
For a car that weighs more than two tonnes, the 8 Convertible is mighty quick. The 530 PS and 750 Nm of torque which comes courtesy of the 4.4-litre TwinPower Turbo V8 mill was more than we could ever ask for.
There are four driving modes (Sport, Comfort, Eco Pro, Adaptive) which can be selected via a dedicated button for each mode.
Throughout our stint with the car, we were mostly in Adaptive mode, where the suspension, steering, and the Steptronic transmission constantly adapted the settings to suit the current driving situation, ensuring that there was always the right balance between comfort and sportiness.
In Sports mode however, the steering tightened, throttle became more sensitive, the dampers got harder, the pops and crackles from the exhaust pipes got louder, and the gears were being held for a longer period. After about an hour in Sport mode, we felt things were getting a tad too wild for our liking, and back we went to Adaptive mode.
This was when we realised that the 8 is more of a grand tourer by nature than a full blown performance-oriented sports car. However, the 8 felt much more eager and sportier than the 6 Series, which is a good thing.
Compared to the more aggressive Mercedes-AMG’s 63-series models and most Porsches in which you feel the urge to push them harder the more you drive them, the 8 Series Convertible got us going back into Adaptive or Normal mode after some time, where we just wanted to chill and cruise with the top down as that was when the car felt the best.
But that doesn’t mean that the 8 can’t take a hammering. This car, despite its sheer size, is capable of sprinting from standstill to 100 km/h in just under four seconds. Plus, the xDrive all-wheel drive system ensures that there is constant grip. So, make no mistake that the 8 Convertible is a car that can mean business if it wants to.
Thanks to the M Adaptive air suspension system, the 8 Convertible felt very comfortable both when we were driving slowly in town and when we were travelling at much higher speeds along the highways.
Conclusion
As much as BMW wants to call the 8 Convertible a sports car, it is more of a luxury grand tourer by nature. It is big, it is powerful, and feels absolutely at home while blasting down the highway and long scenic roads. At the same time, it is also comfortable and refined enough to be used as a daily.
Yes, it is still a BMW and does not disappoint at all when you push it really hard, but why rush when you can just bring the top down, cruise down the streets with every pair of eyes locked on your car and yourself?
It may not look as extravagant as an S-Class Cabriolet or a Bentley Continental GT Convertible, but it definitely drives better than the two. At the same time, it may not feel as raw as a Porsche 911 Cabriolet in the driver's seat, but it certainly looks better and feels more luxurious and refined.
Where the 8 Convertible sits is somewhere right in the middle of its segment, offering the right balance between luxury, style, performance, and comfort. Plus, if we are to look at it from a BMW fan's point of view, the 8 Convertible is arguably the best looking model they have to offer at the moment.
So, if money is not an issue at all, and you want a gorgeous topless power cruiser which offers the best of all worlds, look no further than the 8 Convertible.


Fuel Price Update: 12 – 18 Oct 2017 – Petrol Down, Diesel Down

It is fuel price announcement day once again and from what the Ministry of Domestic Trade, Cooperatives, and Consumerism (KPDNKK) has announced, both petrol and diesel prices for the next seven days will see a decrease.
RON95 – RM2.16 (down 3 sen from RM2.19)
RON97 – RM2.46 (down 3 sen from RM2.49)
Diesel – RM2.10 (down 7 sen from RM2.17)


Mazda Japan In A Challenging Position - How Will They Fare in 2020?

Mazda has requested for a USD2.8 Billion loan from three Japanese megabanks and other institutions to survive the fallout of the current pandemic and its further impact in the coming months.

The
Nikkei Asian Review (NAR) reports
 that Mazda has requested loans from MUFG Bank, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking and Mizuho Bank, in addition to the government-owned Development Bank of Japan and Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Bank to weather the current fiscal firestorm that has pretty much engulfed the global automotive industry.

However, some portion of the loans have been approved and the banks are expected to give Mazda its much-needed financing.

Mazda had already been in a challenging position before the pandemic, in November 2019, it revised its operating profit outlook to JPY60 Billion, down from JPY110 Billion, and in February downgraded its fiscal year (ending March 2020) expected sales to 1.5 million vehicles, down about 60,000 units from initial forecasts.

February saw a 14 percent dip in sales in its major markets (Japan and North America), and March saw a massive sales drop of 33 percent. This has been made worse by the temporary shuttering of domestic production plants, amid the COVID-19 breakout – global production of Mazda’s have dropped by 13.7 percent between (to 338,366 units) between Jan-March, than in the same period in 2019. Across its fiscal year – April 2019 through March 2020 – global production dropped by 8.6 percent (1,434,204 units), year-on-year.

Now it’s important to note that Mazda is not the only company suffering massive losses amid the pandemic and resultant economic turmoil – Toyota has requested a credit line of JPY1.0 Trillion, Nissan is in talks to secure JPY500 Billion, and Ford has secured a USD15.4 Billion line of credit to keep business afloat. What has been especially hurting Mazda is the drop in demand for its cars.

Yesterday, the company
reported
 a revision of its Consolidated Financial Forecast for the Fiscal Year (Ended March 31st), stating “We revised the full-year consolidated financial forecast for the Fiscal Year (ended March 31, 2020), due to an operating profit decrease from declining demand in major markets and an impact of the global spread of the novel coronavirus in the fourth quarter (Jan-March 2020), as well as due to the revision of the recoverability of deferred tax assets. Global wholesale for the full-year has been revised to 1,419,000 units."

That drop in demand could be caused by two main reasons:

Mazda’s much publicised upmarket push to position itself amongst premium automakers such as Lexus, BMW, and Audi, and the resultant increase of its car prices have had an effect on overall customer demand.

Mazda trimmed off dealer incentives in some markets – which are widely used to offer showroom discounts and branding exercises which according to NAR, also backfired for the company.

As of March 2020 - Mazda's global sales volume (from
Jan-March 2020
) decreased 32.8 percent year-on-year due to decreased sales in the U.S., China, Europe and other regions. Sales in Europe and China have been the hardest hit, dropping 38 percent and 30 percent respectively. This can be attributed to the slowdown caused by the pandemic and economic downturn.

However, if we take a snapshot of its full fiscal year – between April 2019 to March 2020 – global sales volume has decreased by 9.1 percent. Highlighted by a drop in overall sales of its
Mazda 2
 (down 18 percent) and
Mazda 3
 (down by 14.6 percent), both of which were introduced in 2019 (across most markets) with significantly higher prices than their predecessors.

The Mazda CX-5 fared a bit better, with just a 9.3 percent dip in overall sales.

For comparison, Volvo, a relatively smaller manufacturer than Mazda – which also is in the midst of a massive rebranding and technological upshift to rival the likes of BMW and Audi – had a
phenomenal year
 (ending December 2019), delivering 705,452 cars in 2019; an increase of 9.8 percent compared to 2018.

While there’s no doubt, Mazda vehicles being offered with advanced platforms, chassis, active-safety, and drivetrain technology will invariably drive prices of Mazda cars higher – the reflection of sales numbers and customer demand beckons the question if Mazda has made a push too far, too early?

The current economic slowdown and resultant restructuring of current fiscal and production targets will inadvertently also have an effect of the company’s upmarket aspirations, possibly also leaving in doubt the future introduction of the
hotly-anticipated Mazda 6 replacement
, expected between late 2020 and early 2021.

Despite the glum outlook in 2020 – some markets have reported strong bouncebacks for the automotive industry,
especially in China
, which could spell a turn in fortunes for the likes of Mazda. Especially given the current styling, and technological renaissance, and its salvo of SUV vehicles, such as the CX-3, CX-8, and MX-30 electric SUV, yet to hit their respective primes in most markets.


5 more highways join the open payment toll system - list grows to 11

You know how it was
 announced last week
 that starting in September, users of five highways can use their credit and debit cards to pay for tolls? Well, that list has just grown, as five more highways have joined the list.

According to a report by The Star, five more highways have agreed to participate in implementing the open toll payment system that will begin in mid-September.

These highways are Damansara-Puchong Expressway (LDP), SPRINT Highway, Shah Alam Expressway (Kesas), SMART Tunnel and the Kuala Lumpur-Putrajaya Expressway (MEX).

Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said, "the open payment system will be implemented in phases involving various concession companies".

This brings the total number of highways involved to 11, with the just mentioned highways joining the Sungai Besi Expressway (Besraya), New Pantai Expressway (NPE), Ampang-Kuala Lumpur Elevated Highway (AKLEH), Guthrie Corridor Expressway (GCE) and Penang Bridge

Nanta also announced that in October, the Sungai Besi Expressway would be the first location for the implementation of MLFF Proof of Concept (Multi Lane Fast Flow system), to evaluate the system before fully implementing it in the near future.


The Malaysian Evo April – The P1 Meets the F1 and Finding 2014’s Ultimate Track Toy

33 years on and enthusiasts still speak of the McLaren F1 as one of the greatest cars ever made, so much so that some claim that nothing has taken its place as McLaren’s crowning achievement. Can McLaren’s 21
st
 century hybrid hypercar, the P1, match up to the F1? The P1 boasts more power, more sophistication, and even forbidden Formula One technology, but is it enough to make enthusiasts forget about the F1?
In a similar vein we take Ferrari’s most celebrated turbocharged car, the F40, on a tour through the Alps to experience one of motoring’s most delectable combinations. One of the most rewarding Ferraris to drive meeting some of Europe’s most magnificent roads, it is an indulgence not to be missed.
But from the world of ultimate on-road performance we move onto the exciting world of track toys. In a world were comfort, emissions, and airbags are thrown out the window for ultimate lap times, we pick the best track cars of 2014 to find out which is the fastest at going around corners and keeping you in control.
Idolised as a design icon, the Audi TT has had an underserved reputation of a car that had more style than substance. Can Audi’s new third-generation TT reverse people’s assumptions? To prove its worth we match it up against Peugeot’s hot RCZ R, the sharp and balanced Subaru BRZ, and the brawny Nissan 370Z.
While Bridgestone has built a strong reputation as a maker of performance tyres during its involvement in Formula One, we wonder if that is the case with their commitment to altruistic causes. Their latest Potenza Adrenalin RE003 puts some of our worries that Bridgestone has lost their edge in performance to rest.
Read these exciting feature stories and more in the latest issue of The Malaysian Evo, out now at your nearest bookstores and newsstands. And don't forget to like
The Malaysian Evo
 Facebook page to recieve news and updates on the world of performance cars, and your look into the Thrill of Driving.


Bentley Celebrates First Bentayga Rolling Off Production Line

The fruits of £840 million worth of investments, four years of preparation, and all that effort of relocating the ‘centre of excellence’ of W12 engines for the whole Volkswagen Group there, was seen with the first production
Bentley Bentayga SUV
 rolling off the assembly line at Bentley’s headquarters in Crewe. Deliveries of the first Bentaygas to customers will commence in January 2016.
With the Bentayga expected to tap into a huge and potentially lucrative market, Bentley Motors expanded its operations to accommodate the production of its latest addition to the model range, and in the process created over 1,500 jobs.
The first production Bentayga was said to have been ‘handcrafted’ over 130 hours, in which the SUV passed through the factory’s all-new bodystore, paint shop, and assembly line, which were all part of the company’s substantial investment.
According to UK Prime Minister David Cameron, the expansion of the Crewe factory was also backed by a £9.5 million injection from the country’s Regional Growth Fund, which is said to create hundreds of skilled jobs and secure the future of its production onsite.
Bentley isn’t the only company that is putting millions on the table, and seeking aid from local governments to kick start their SUV production. Earlier this year
supercar maker Lamborghini
managed to secure the support of key Italian government and corporate bodies to expand their factory at Sant’Agata to produce the Urus SUV, which is slated for a market introduction in 2018.


Volkswagen Expands ALLSTAR Treatment To 2017 Vento, Adds Vento GT

In a bid to keep the Vento competitive against the dominant Honda City and Toyota Vios, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) is now expanding the Vento’s range to include a special edition Vento ALLSTAR, and a Vento GT that’s slotted below the Vento Highline, also powered by the same 1.2-litre TSI turbocharged engine paired to a 7-speed dual-clutch DSG automatic transmission.
Price at RM89,888, the Vento GT shares the same TSI+DSG combo powertrain as the Vento Highline, but minus the Vento Highline’s LED headlamps, itself a new addition to the model.
Compared to the 1.6-litre MPI naturally aspirated Vento Comfortline, the Vento GT adds RM9,000 worth of accessories, including ‘Satin’ black roof and exterior mirror wraps, black door strips and trunk garnish, leather seats, aluminium sports pedals, GT aerokit, ‘GT’ scuff plates, emblems, and carpet mats.
The Vento GT is available only in two colours – Reflex Silver and Candy White. The rest of the Vento range is available in the aforementioned colours, as well as Carbon Steel Grey, Deep Black, and Flash Red.
Meanwhile, the Vento ALLSTAR is only available with 1.6-litre MPI naturally aspirated engine, paired to a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission with Tiptronic function. It’s the second ALLSTAR special edition model after the
Polo ALLSTAR
.
Basically a dressed up Vento Comfortline, the RM79,888 Vento ALLSTAR adds RM7,000 worth of accessories including leather seats, aluminium sports pedals, rear spoiler, black door strips and trunk garnish, ‘ALLSTAR’ scuff plates, emblems and carpet mats.
As an added bonus, the Vento ALLSTAR is equipped with the new MY VW Drive App, which allows the driver to track driving style and fuel consumption. It also allows the driver to immediately call for assistance from Mondial Roadside Assistance in the event of an emergency.


KL Supercar Drag Race: Dataran Merdeka Road Closure This Weekend

Those who are planning to visit Kuala Lumpur this weekend, please be informed that the Dataran Merdeka stretch will be closed from 6pm, 15
th
 of July (this Friday) till midnight, 17
th
 of July (Sunday) to make way for the Kuala Lumpur Supercar Drag Race.
The race, which is the first of its kind to be held at the heart of Kuala Lumpur, is expected to play host to more than 1500 supercars, and more than 10,000 visitors from Malaysia and around the region.
According to the organising committee chairman, Nazir Hussin Akthar Hussin, this weekend’s race will be the first leg of a total of four rounds, which are scheduled to take place on:
16 – 18 September 2016
4 – 6 November 2016
2 – 4 December 2016
Organised by the UMNO Youth division and the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), the KL Supercar Drag Battle will see qualifying taking place from 8am on Saturday, 16 July, while the main race is set to begin at 3pm, Sunday.
Admission is free.


All-New Toyota Estima To Debut In April 2016

Rumour has it that the current Toyota Estima, which is also sold under the Previa nameplate by UMW Toyota Motor, will be replaced by an all-new model in late-April 2016.
Blurry scans of unknown origin, depicting renderings of what the all-new 2016 Toyota Estima/Previa might look like, have been circulating around Japanese-language social media space.
Assuming that the renderings are done with fairly accurate insider information, the all-new Estima will still maintain its characteristic egg-shaped silhouette. There will not be any radical changes to its exterior styling.
The front bumper is likely to feature bolder, two-tone colour inverted trapezoidal grille, flanked by a pair of LED headlamps.
As before, the Estima Hybrid variant will get a different front-end styling treatment.
Currently, non-hybrid Estima models are available with two engine options – a 2.4-litre four-cylinder 2AZ-FE VVT-i and a 3.5-litre 2GR-FE Dual VVT-i V6.
The all-new model however, is expected to drop the 3.5-litre V6 option. The 2.4-litre engine is also expected to either be updated or be replaced with another Dual VVT-i equivalent of a similar capacity.
In terms of dimensions, the all-new model is expected to measure 4,800 mm long, 1,820 mm wide, and 1760 mm tall. Compared to the current model, that’s 5 mm longer, 20 mm wider, 10 mm taller. Wheelbase remains the same at 2,950 mm.
Find more
Toyota Estima
 models on Carlist.my.


Thailand Approves Tax Incentives For EV Manufacturing And Supply

Thailand is ready to offer a series of incentives including tax exemptions up to 8 years to companies ready to setup electric vehicle production in the country, according to the
Bangkok Post
.

Hiranya Sujinai, Secretary-general of the Board of Investment (BoI), told the Thai daily that the incentives are focused on the production of hybrid electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and battery electric vehicle.
The incentives are open to passenger cars, pick-up trucks, and buses, but the rate of privilege granted vary according to the level of production technology brought into the kingdom.
As is typical with industry incentives from the Thai government, terms are laid out without ambiguity and firm deadlines. Companies are also given reasonable lead times to form their proposals and planning.
For hybrid vehicles, the only exemption being granted is for tariffs on imported machinery. Car makers interested to apply must do so by 31 Dec 2017 in a proposal detailing its assembly and key parts production plans.
Plug-in hybrids and battery electric vehicles get more extensive incentives. Investment of PHEV production in Thailand will entitle a manufacturer to three years of corporate income tax exemption on top of tariff exemption for imported machinery.
Companies that commit to produce additional key EV parts enjoy further exemption of corporate income tax to the tune of one year per piece of equipment up to a maximum total of six years. Applications close by 31 Dec 2018.
Meanwhile, manufacturers ready to bring battery electric vehicle production to Thailand stand to enjoy between 5 and 8 years of corporate tax exemption. Those manufacturing more than one key EV part locally will get a further year of exemption per piece of equipment, but the combined exemption is capped at 10 years.
In the above instances, key EV parts include batteries, traction motors, battery management services, DC/DC converters, inverters, portable electric vehicle chargers, electrical circuit breakers and EV smart charging systems.
Companies that act fast enough and able to commit by 29 Dec 2017 to invest in manufacturing the key EV parts in Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor get to garner additional privileges and a 50% cut in corporate income tax for five years.
Besides dangling incentives to car makers, the Thai Government is also ready to do its part to push the popularity of electric vehicles in the country by introducing supplementary measures that include requirements for state agencies to buy electric cars and provide charging stations for motorists.


Volvo Takes Aim At C-Segment Kings With Focus On Small Models

Volvo
, together with its parent company Geely, have their sights set on the competitive but equally lucrative smaller C-segment vehicle market with the opening of the new China Euro Vehicle Technology (CEVT) centre.
According to the
Autocar
, Volvo describes the new operation as an “engineering and development centre for future C-segment cars, addressing the needs of Volvo Cars and Geely Auto,” and will be based in Volvo’s stomping ground of Sweden, specifically Gothenburg, and owned the Zhejiang Geely Holding Group.
This new C-Segment contender due to emerge from the new centre will be based on a new platform, spawning a replacement for the
Volvo V40
, and will go head to head with other segment heavyweights such as the
Ford

Focus
,
Volkswagen

Golf
, and
Honda

Civic
.
CEVT says they have the capability to engineer a whole new vehicle, including the underpinning architecture, powertrain, transmission and exterior design. They will implement what they call “modular technology” to create components and vehicles that span a wide range of sizes of prices.
With adjustable length, width, height, and wheelbase, their modular approach can be used to suit “different performance levels for handling, noise and vibrations.” This approach should also make it much easier to add new tech to the base architecture in addition to expanding the range with new variants.
Interestingly, Volvo’s new CEVT centre is also has hybrid powertrain development and mechanical all-wheel drive on the books. Some have speculated that the hybrid setup will be utilized through an electric motor powering the rear axle.


BMW M7 Trademarked, Potential S63 AMG Rival?

When it comes to high performance luxury sedans, Mercedes-Benz has the S63 AMG, while the folks from Ingolstadt offers the S8 Plus (no, not the phone). BMW meanwhile, currently offers a high performance G11 7 Series in the form of the
M760Li
, which while impressive, is one step short of a full

That could change, as Bimmerfest and
BMWBlog
 reported that BMW’s M division have recently
trademarked
 the M7 nameplate with the United States Patent & Trademark Office (USPTO).

It’ll be interesting to see BMW developing an all-out M model of the 7 Series, as the current M760Li already packs quite a punch, featuring a twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre V12 mated to the company’s xDrive AWD solution. With 600 hp and 800 Nm on tap, the M760Li can complete the century sprint in just 3.9 seconds, slightly behind the S63 AMG’s 3.5 second and the S8 Plus’s 3.8 second effort.

Alternatively, famed BMW tuner Alpina also offers a monstrous 7 Series called the B7 xDrive. Unlike the M760Li, the B7 xDrive is powered by a twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8 that churns out an identical 600 hp and 800 Nm. Despite having four less cylinder than the M760Li, the Alpina can sprint from a standstill to 100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds, slotting it between the S63 AMG and Audi S8 Plus.

Of course, trademarking a name and actually building an M7 are two very different things altogether, as the BMW M division have been keeping the M7 name for a while now. Renewing the M7 name does indicate that BMW could still be keen to offer a high performance luxury sedan.


Volkswagen AG: Non-essential Investments To Be Cancelled Or Postponed

The recent diesel engine emissions scandal affecting Volkswagen AG is expected to have a huge impact on the company’s financial standings. As a direct result of that, the company has announced that all non-essential investments will be cancelled or postponed.
This comes CEO Mr. Matthias Müller announced that the company is working on a technical fix to correct the exhaust emissions of over 11 million diesel-powered Volkswagen and Audi vehicles, which was found to have been fitted with an illegal engine management software that selectively disables the vehicle’s exhaust emissions control function.
For a majority of the vehicles affected,
a software fix is sufficient
 but some models might require additional hardware. Details of the fix will be made public after the company gets the necessary approval from the German Federal Motor Transport Authority.
Muller is unable to provide a figure on the financial impact to the company at present, but acknowledges that it will be huge.
"While the technical solutions to these problems are imminent, it is not possible to quantify the commercial and financial implications at present," said Muller.
He added that the company must now respond swiftly: "That is why we have initiated a further critical review of all planned investments. Anything that is not absolutely necessary will be cancelled or postponed. And it is why we will be intensifying the efficiency program. To be perfectly frank: this will not be a painless process."
Volkswagen AG have previously announced that it has set aside 6.5 billion Euros to cover the cost of fixing the affected vehicles, but that might not be sufficient to cover the cost of fines and other potential legal damages.


Mercedes-AMG GT R Pro Teased Ahead Of LA Debut Tomorrow

With only one more day left before the Mercedes-AMG GT R Pro is officially unveiled at the LA Auto Show, the folks at Mercedes-Benz have released yet another teaser on Twitter today saying that the car has achieved an impressive lap time on the Nurburgring.
Although the lap time remains unknown, what we do know is that it is a sharper, more track-focused variant of the AMG GT R which will be going against the likes of the Porsche 911 GT3 RS.
Even before its world premiere, the new Mercedes-AMG GT R PRO has impressively demonstrated its performance potential on the racetrack. Stay tuned for more.
[Kraftstoffverbrauch kombiniert: 12,4 l/100km | CO2-Emissionen kombiniert: 284 g/km |
https://t.co/ud8odkxpkM
]
pic.twitter.com/QJVe6a6Y7R
— Mercedes-Benz (@MercedesBenz)
November 26, 2018
Looking at the first teaser image released last week, the AMG GT R Pro will have a new front bumper with larger air intakes, a more pronounced front splitter, and more aerodynamic modifications than the AMG GT R which was revealed last year.
No technical details have been revealed yet but the car will most likely make more than the GT R’s 577 PS, with a limited production run.
That being said, more details of the Mercedes-AMG GT R Pro will surface once it makes its world debut at the LA Auto Show tomorrow.


2016 Mercedes-Benz C350e (W205) Launched In Malaysia; Avantgarde Trim, RM290k

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has officially launched the new
C350e plug-in hybrid
, the latest addition to the highly-successful and acclaimed W205 C-Class range. Priced at RM289,888 on-the-road excluding insurance, the C350e replaces the
C300
, assuming its role as the leading variant of the line-up.
To recap, the W205 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is available with a choice of five variants in total, consisting of:
C180 Avantgarde Line
: 1.6-litre petrol, 156hp, RM228,888
C200 Avantgarde Line: 2.0-litre petrol, 184hp, RM248,888
C200 Exclusive Line: 2.0-litre petrol, 184hp, RM252,888
C250 AMG Line: 2.0-litre petrol, 211hp, RM287,888
C350e Avantgarde Line: 2.0-litre petrol hybrid, 279hp, RM289,888.
Trim: Avantgarde Line now, AMG Line later
At present, the C350e costs just RM2,000 more than the C250 AMG Line immediately below. This status quo is temporary, however.
Launch-spec sees the C350e finished with Avantgarde Line trim inside out. An uprated version to be with AMG Line trim interior and AMG wheels will come later with a price increase of RM5,000. In 2017, MBM will further upgrade the vehicle with the full AMG Line package inside out at RM299,888.
The C350e is also currently fitted with a sliding electric sunroof, which will be upgraded to a panoramic sunroof with the full AMG Line package.
Unique styling cues of the C350e include a pair of discreet “Plug-In Hybrid” badges at the front fenders, blue painted front brake calipers, and blue highlights in the headlamp assembly.

Plug-In Hybrid Powertrain – 279hp, 2.1 litres/100km
Broadly speaking, the C350e runs on the C250’s 211hp/350Nm 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine boosted by an additional 81hp and 340Nm from its electric motor. The combined efforts of these two power units yield a net system output of 279hp and 600Nm.
As explained in an
earlier report on this vehicle
, the engine and motor both peak at different rpm; net system output is therefore not a direct summation of the engine’s and electric motor’s outputs.
Like other members of the C-Class range, the C350e sends power astern via a Mercedes-Benz in-house 7-speed automatic transmission. For the C350e, the gearbox is modified to accommodate the electric motor within its housing and a clutch replacing the torque converter thus allowing the engine to be fully de-coupled for full electric driving.
Electronically limited to a top speed of 250km/h, the C350e powers its way to 100km/h from rest in 5.9 seconds. Official fuel consumption is rated at 2.1 litres/100km corresponding to carbon dioxide emissions of 48 g/km. With a full charge of its 6.2 kWh traction battery, the C350e has the potential of covering 31km of ground in all-electric driving or reach a top speed of 130km/h.
As with all hybrid vehicles, the C350e recuperates kinetic energy on the move to charge its batteries. For added efficiency, the battery’s electronics are tied into the vehicle’s built-in GPS system to give the most optimal charging and discharging strategy along the driving route.
New Features – Airmatic Suspension, Pre-Entry Climate Control
In addition to all features and equipment available in existing variants of the C-Class, the C350e exclusively gets Airmatic air suspension and Pre-Entry Climate Control.
Pre-entry climate control is a standard feature available exclusively in the C350e. Before you have a laugh and say the Honda Civic can do the same thing, the Mercedes system allows full activation of the air-conditioning or heater without needing to start the engine. This is possible because the C350e’s climate control hardware is fully electric-powered. Users can choose to activate this system by remote or by pre-set timing.


China Starts Battery Recycling Program, Pilot In 17 Cities And Regions

As part of an effort to counteract
an emerging pollution threat
, China has launched a pilot program for electric vehicle battery recycling in 14 cities and regions around the country. Car producers are encouraged to established recycling centres and service outlets, as well as to co-operate with battery producers, used car dealers, and scrap merchants in order to build a regional recycling system.
Lithium battery waste as a whole could reach around 170,000 tonnes by 2020, as predicted by experts. The ministries involved with recycling these batteries believe that the entire industrial chain from production to end of life needs to be involved, and there will be new policies to encourage recycling such as tax incentives, along with a "traceability management platform" that tracks the life cycle of electric car batteries.
By 2020, China expects to be selling 2 million electric vehicles per year.This is based on the fact that China's electric vehicle market is rapidly growing, with 413,200 new energy vehicles (NEV) produced just in the first half of this year, just over 50% more than the same period last year.


2020 Porsche Macan GTS - It's Got That Whip Appeal

The Macan which makes you take the long way home has finally arrived. With its new performance-oriented chassis as well as a more powerful engine compared to its predecessor, owners of the new Macan GTS might consider the most extended route home because, from the sounds of the spec sheet, this baby SUV is all about fun.

With 380hp (20Hp more than its predecessor) and 520Nm of torque on tap, this newly launched Macan GTS is no slouch even if it does have a smaller engine (2.9-litre vs 3.0-litre) than its predecessor. Paired to a freshly adapted PDK dual-clutch transmission and Chrono package ( features like launch control and SPORT response which give you the most power available from the engine) the new car can accelerate from 0- 100 km/h in 4.7secs. It can also run to a top speed of 261km/h.

Acoustically, the sports exhaust system specially adapted to the GTS accentuates the driving pleasure in the new Macan GTS. A 2.9-litre V6 engine is at the heart of the sound experience. Its Central Turbo Layout, with two turbochargers arranged in the inner V of the engine, allows particularly direct responsiveness. The maximum torque of 520 Nm (plus 20 Nm in SPORT response) is available over a wide range from 1,750 to 5,000 rpm. The GTS consumes 9.6 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres according to the press release.

Other unique features in the GTS is the LED headlights with Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS) and the three-dimensional rear lights with LED light bar are also darkened. The LED headlights can be optionally ordered in black with PDLS Plus.

Chassis lowering by 15 millimetres, the 20-inch RS Spyder Design wheels in satin-gloss black, the red brake callipers and the trim strips in high-gloss black also emphasise the high-performance appearance. The colour black also sets accents at the rear: here, the diffuser and the tailpipes of the standard sports exhaust system are painted in this colour.


The Rolls-Royce Phantom Serenity: Taking Bespoke To The Next Level

“Bespoke is
Rolls-Royce
.” Bold words from the company but with the introduction of the Rolls-Royce Phantom Serenity at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, we’re finding it hard to disagree with that statement after going through the list of detailed craftsmanship on what is billed as the “new standard in authentic, bespoke luxury motoring.”
With a focus on the Oriental theme, the ultimate Phantom has 10 metres of fabric silk adorning its interior. The designers behind the Serenity travelled to Suzhou, China to source unspun silk thread that was then hand-dyed and woven at 140 threads per centimetre to produce the “Smoke Green” colour of the underlying silk fabric.
Once installed, every single petal of the crimson blossom flowers are hand-painted, taking up to an unbelievable 600 hours of work per panel. The style of painting used is a centuries-old technique called ‘unconscious painting’ where the work is painstakingly rendered again and again to enable the artist to recreate natural forms until their balance and nature is understood without thought.
Rear occupants rest their bottoms on seats made from rare smoked Cherrywood which is also applied on the Serenity’s door cappings, dash fascia and rear centre console, further inflated with bamboo applications as well.
Mother of Pearl which are laser-cut and hand-applied onto various parts of the Serenity add to the Oriental theme. These are found in the wood on each petal as well as the bespoke clock and driver’s instrument dials.
The outside is distinctively a Rolls-Royce Phantom with a bespoke Mother of Peal paint, the most expensive one-off paint ever developed by Rolls-Royce. Added in a three stage pearl effect, it is hand-polished for 12 hours to create the outlook you see before you.
As a precursor of what to expect before entering the cabin, two colour coachline with three colour blossom motifs can be found which signify the positions of the owner and chauffeur with the entrance to the rear indicated on the right-hand side of the car with the blossom on the rear wing and coachline ending at the B-pillar.
As Sir Henry Royce once said, “When it does not exist, design it.” With the Rolls-Royce Serenity, it goes to show that there is no limit as to what constitutes luxury in an automobile.


Apple Car Satire Ad 'Leaked' Online, Hilarity Ensues

Are you excited about
Apple possibly working a possible road car
 called the Titan EV? Well do we have a treat for you because the first 'official' advertisement for it has been ‘leaked’ online, and it promises to be as revolutionary as all of the company’s other products.
With the Apple Car, as Jony Ive, senior vice president of design at Apple (portrayed by AJ+’s Dan Ilic), introduces just what the car is possible of when undertaken the Apple way.
Why bother with driving at all? Simply tell Siri where you would like to go and she’ll handle it for you. A hardened screen that doesn’t crack? The windscreen is made out of sapphire crystal!
And that’s not all because the ‘W’ word can’t be used on Apple products, there are no windows on the Apple Car. Instead, you get several glorious Retina display screens instead that show what is on the outside with the ability to swipe away things you wouldn’t want to see.
Best part is the choice of casings you can adorn your precious Apple Car with.
There is a whole lot more features than we can’t possibly fit into a limited number of words so check out the ‘ad’ for yourself.
Warning: Satire is present in the video and it is meant to be taken as a joke. Laugh away.
Warning 2: Suggestive themes and language.


F20 BMW 1 Series To Retire, Next Gen 1 Series and G22 4 Series To Debut At Frankfurt Auto Show

It’s an open secret that the current generation BMW 1 Series is now at the last leg of its product lifecycle, and an all-new front-wheel drive 1 Series will soon take its place. Now, BMW has confirmed that the 1 Series is already in run-out stage.
Speaking at the sidelines of the all-new G20 3 Series’ launch in Australia, BMW Group Australia CEO Vikram Pawah told GoAuto that the F20 1 Series will be phased out this year, and that the next generation 1 Series will be making its global debut at September’s Frankfurt Auto Show.
Not much is known about the all-new 1 Series but a switch from rear- to front-wheel drive has been confirmed by BMW, thus making the outgoing 1 Series the last rear-wheel drive hatchback on sale.
The outgoing F20 1 Series is one of best handling premium hatchbacks on the market, if not the best. It’s a pity that BMW Group Malaysia only offers the 118i and 120i here, but like for like, the 1 Series is an incrementally better car to drive than any of its peers, while retaining very good ride comfort.
Even in its base 118i form, it’s such a joy to drive and what it lacks in power it more than makes up for it by offering a well-balanced chassis, delivering more smiles per km than archrival the Mercedes-Benz A-Class, and that applies to even the all-new A-Class.
The next generation 1 Series will ride on a variation of the UKL platform, which currently already underpin the X1, X2, 2 Series Active Tourer, 2 Series Grand Tourer and all MINI models.
The outgoing 1 Series will certainly be missed and we highly recommended for anyone in the market for a premium hatchback to consider the 1 Series. It’s not very often that we encourage consumers to buy a model that’s already at the tail-end of its lifecycle but the 1 Series is an exception. It just goes to show
how special the tiny little 1 is
.
The next available rear-wheel drive hatchback that will come to the market is the fully electric Honda E, but that model won’t go on sale until 2020, and even so it will be limited only to Europe.
Also making its global debut at September’s Frankfurt Auto Show will be an all-new 4 Series. The 4 Series Coupe will build upon the successful launch of the G20 3 Series, adopting all the key new features including an all-new CLAR chassis, BMW Intelligent Assistant, and the fully digital Live Cockpit instrument panel.
It doesn’t take much guessing how the all-new 4 Series will look like. Just like the currrent F32 4 Series, imagine the G20 3 Series with two less doors, a lower roofline, and a wider track width.


Hyundai Creta Website Pops Up as India Debut Nears, Interior Previewed

Hyundai
, with the planned unveiling in India for its upcoming Creta compact SUV in sight, has launched a website for the new vehicle – a landing pad of sorts that concurrently aggregates Creta-specific social media buzz and shows off some details of the car. Only sketches so far.
However, it does include a sketch of the interior which does a good enough job of previewing the real deal. We see use of a tanned orange-like dashboard trim, possibly leather. Other than that, we have the exterior preview sketch that
we’ve seen before
.
The website, which can be found at
www.hyundaicreta.com
, also has some text describing the Creta’s design philosophy (called Fluidic Sculpture 2.0) and exterior cues. It’s all rather fruity, but there if you want extra titillation.
Several other motoring sites peg a launch date on July 21, but as this is made no mention of on the Creta website, we’ll have to take it with a grain of salt.
What we do know is that the Hyundai Creta is planned to be a global model, unlike the China-only ix25 B-segment SUV that's also nearing its market launch. This means that if Hyundai-Sime Darby Motor wishes, it could be something Malaysians may look forward to. Should it make it to our shores, it will go up against the
Honda

HR-V
,
Ford

EcoSport
, and
Mazda

CX-3
 – all worthy opponents.
We’ve
speculated
 on the possible engine options for the Creta before. With the ix25 as a template, the Creta could sport a four-cylinder petrol engine in a 1.6 or 2.0-litre varieties, producing 123hp/151Nm or 158hp/192Nm respectively, with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.


Mercedes-Benz A 200 & A 250 updated for 2023 - From RM238,888

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has updated its A-Class offerings here in Malaysia for 2023 with prices starting from RM238,888 to RM264,000 for the A 200 Progressive Line and A 250 4Matic AMG Line.

The facelifted A-Class variants have been enhanced with upgraded intelligence which includes the latest MBUX Infotainment system features as well as other bits and pieces to elevate its overall comfort as well as style.

The A 200 comes ready with the Progressive Line exterior package to command a more classy yet low-profile appearance, while the A 250 4Matic gets things done with the AMG Line exterior finishes. Both of these models feature the forward-slopping bonnet with a couple of power bulges and a steep 'shark nose' for a more muscular facade.

For the A 200, the front grille has been redesigned with geometric highlights while the A 250 sports the more sporty star pattern positioned between the flat headlamps.

The overall sportiness of both the A 200 and A 250 is further elevated thanks to externally flush wheels. You'll find that the A 200 comes ready with a set of 17-inch five twin-spoke light alloy wheels finished in black while the A 250 is fitted with a set of 18-inch AMG five twin-spoke units finished in tremolite grey.

Other highlights include a new rear diffuser to match its standard LED rear lights, variations of paint finishes in metallic and non-metallic, Adaptive Highbeam Assist, and more.

Step inside the interior of both the A 200 and A 250 and you'll find the usual high-tech features synonymous with the Mercedes-Benz brand name. You won't be able to miss the freestanding dual-screen display measuring 10.25 inches each as well as special lighting ambience, turbine-style air vents, and ARTICO upholstery.

What's new this time around is the A 200's new dark carbon-fibre trim elements on the instrument panel and doors. The A 250 offers a more robust light longitudinal-grain aluminium trim and red stitchings to go along with the AMG Line theme.

Perhaps the biggest update would be the latest-generation MBUX Infotainment system (NTG7) with revised telematics that is said to be intuitive paired with the ability to learn. There are a bunch of display styles, modes, and colour worlds that can be customised by the driver to offer a more 'holistic and aesthetic' experience in both the updated A 200 and A 250.

The new A-Class models are also updated in terms of safety where future customers can benefit from:

LED headlamps

Parking Package with reverse camera

Active Parking Assist

Blind Spot Assist

Exit Warning Assist

Active Brake Assist

Sports Brake System (A 250 only)

If power is a priority for you, the A 200 maintains its 1.3-litre four-cylinder powertrain mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox to produce 13hp and 270Nm of torque. Step up to the A 250 and you'll be welcomed with a 1.9-litre mild-hybrid unit which now kicks out 224hp and 350Nm of torque and an additional 10kW and 150Nm from the 48-volt electrical system.

If you're interested to get your very own updated Mercedes-Benz A-Class in 2023, the A 200 Progressive Line is priced at RM238,888 (OTR without insurance) while the A 250 4Matic AMG Line is estimated to be from RM264,000.


MyOpal Services Relocates To PJ

Automotive insurance and extended warranty provider MyOpal Services has relocated its offices to Dataran Hamodal, Section 13, Petaling Jaya.
The company’s move is due to its rapid business growth and to be strategically located within closer proximity with Kumpulan Hamodal. Kumpulan Hamodal is the parent company of MyOpal services and primarily deals with industrial and commercial development. MyOpal is also the in-house corporate agency to Kumpulan Hamodal handling their group insurance, both motor and non-motor.
MyOpal Services is focused primarily on providing and administering all automotive warranty programs which are underwritten by AmGeneral Insurance in Malaysia.
Through MyOpal, customers can purchase extended warranty programs for cars that have surpassed their manufacturer backed warranty, for up to ten year old vehicles with mileage under 200,000 km. The service is particularly useful for used and reconditioned/imported vehicles as well.
Additionally, MyOpal offers auto insurance programs and car inspection services – offered through a network of over 200 specialised and professional panel workshops nationwide.
Separately, MyOpal signed a Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) with vehicle online classifieds platform Carsome. The purpose of this collaboration is to provide comprehensive warranty and service packages to customers when they opt for Carsome’s financing service.


Kia EV6 GT Line In Malaysia  - Launching Soon!

The Kia EV6 has been spotted yet again and this time we managed to get a bit closer to the hotly anticipated EV.

The sighting of Kia's futuristic flagship electric vehicle is starting to get more frequent now, indicating that
an official launch
 of the vehicle is starting to gather pace.

Displayed at the

KIA-PGM Championship 2022 at Glenmarie Golf & Country club, the official distributor of Kia vehicles in Malaysia, Dinamikjaya Motors Sdn. Bhd really did catch everyone off guard.

Kia's first EV model is on display for public viewing, and the sporty yet earth-friendly machine really got a lot of attention from those who were at the golf club. However, despite this exhibition, Kia has not disclosed
much information regarding the vehicle
.

Kia EV6 GT Line

The Kia EV6 parked in front of the golf course seems to be a GT Line variant identified by its GT Line badge at the rear, and black exterior finishes on the front, sides and back. We can't confirm whether this will be the exact vehicle that we'll get in Malaysia, but we're pretty sure Kia Malaysia will
bring a few different variants.

The face of the EV6 is highlighted with a slim "Tiger Nose" design, along with a matching pair of triangular LED lights. The bottom is also fitted with a piano black grille at the centre, flanked by some foglights at the sides.

From the side, the EV, which is equipped with 20-inch two-tone wheels, comes with black coloured window frames to give the effect of a floating roof. However, the most striking exterior feature of the vehicle is definitely at the back, as it comes with a futuristic lighting design that sees the taillight stretch all the way from one end of the bumper to the other.

Performance of the Kia EV6

In other markets, the EV is available in a single rear-wheel drive (RWD) electric motor model or a twin electric motor with an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system.

In terms of performance, the Long Range version is available in rear two-wheel drive with 225 hp and 350 Nm, while the AWD variant has 321 hp and 605 Nm of torque which allows it to accelerate from 0-100km/h in just 5.2 seconds.

There's also the upcoming Kia EV6 GT,
a Kia like no other
, which comes with 580 PS and 740 Nm of torque. This enables the EV6 to surge up to 100km/h from a standstill in just 3.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 260km/h - now that's supercar type performance.

Apparently, the GT-Line EV6 displayed at the gold club is said to be a 77.4 kWh battery EV6, with a range of up to 506km on a single charge, but we'll have to wait for Kia Malaysia to release some official information to confirm the specs.

Price of the EV6 in Malaysia?

When we asked the person who was there chaperoning the car, the individual said the car might be priced around RM350k, but that too is not official, so we'll just have to take that with a pinch of salt. However, we do expect the Kia EV6 to be priced higher than its cousin, the Hyundai Ioniq 5, which retails between RM200k- RM260k.

The order books are also about to be opened, so visit your nearest Kia dealership for more information regarding the EV6. They are
a bit like hotcakes
, so if you want one, you must hurry!


All-New Nissan Leaf Confirmed For Asia Oceania, Malaysia Included

The second generation Nissan Leaf will soon go on sale in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, South Korea, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore.
The announcement was made at Nissan Futures in Singapore, a gathering of industry leaders, media and government officials to discuss the future of mobility in the fast-growing Asia and Oceania region.
"The new Nissan Leaf is the most advanced, yet accessible 100% electric vehicle (EV) on the planet," said Nissan Regional Senior Vice President Yutaka Sanada. "This ingenuous car will make you feel more confident, more excited, more connected than any other mainstream EV. The launch in so many markets shows our commitment to playing a leading role in electrification in this dynamic region, and to delivering the future of mobility to the region now."
Nissan is studying demand in Indonesia and the Philippines ahead of the new Nissan Leaf's next launch phase, Sanada added.
Nissan has sold more than 300,000 Leaf models globally since the model first went on sale in 2010. The company introduced the all-new Nissan Leaf (ZE1) in September 2017, with a suite of advanced technologies that showcase Nissan ingenuity,
 including the e-Pedal system for one-pedal driving
.
The new Nissan Leaf also features increased power and range, and improved refinement, comfort and convenience. The car's new electric powertrain delivers 150 Ps of output and 320Nm of torque, improving acceleration and driver enjoyment.
Under Japanese testing cycles, the new Leaf is capable of travelling up to 400 kilometres on a single charge. But as testing standards are different from region to region, we can instead look at other major testing standards which are more rigorous and reflective of actual traffic and driving conditions:
 USA EPA standard: up to 243 km
 Latest WLTP (combined): up to 285 km (rolling out in Europe, replacing NEDC)
 NEDC / ECE R101: up to 378 km
Being a full electric vehicle with respectable range, the large 40kWh battery takes 7 hours to fully charge with its 6.6kW on-board charger.
The outgoing Leaf was launched in Malaysia in 2013 after undergoing a year-long pilot programme that included loaning test cars to selected motorists for an extended period of time. Back in 2017, the ‘ZE0’ Leaf had a retail price of RM180,566 on-the-road without insurance in Peninsular Malaysia.


Feature: Shared Technology – Eight Examples Of Car Makers Working Together

To offset the high costs of developing an automobile, car makers often pool their resources to share common components or even join hands to develop entire vehicles together.
The
first part of our ‘Shared Technology’ series
 of articles has dived into why car makers work together; here, we present eight examples of them actually doing so:
1. Chrysler, Mitsubishi, Hyundai – GEMA Engine Alliance:
Formed in 2002, the Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance was a three-way joint-venture between Chrysler, Mitsubishi Motors, and Hyundai. The three car makers shared common aluminium engine block designs for the 1.8-, 2.0-, and 2.4-litre engines, although each had their own unique internals. The alliance ended in 2009 when Chrysler bought off both Mitsubishi and Hyundai’s shares of the venture. The engines spawned by this venture continue to live on, however – Mitsubishi still produces the 4B series engines, although Hyundai is gradually retiring its Theta engine family.

2. GM-Ford Transmission Partnership:
GM and Ford came together in 2002 to begin working on a 6-speed automatic transmission for transverse installation. Today, that transmission is found in a wide range of models from both companies. In Malaysia, we see it in the
Ford Mondeo
,
Ford S-Max
, Ford Kuga,
Ford Focus
, Chevrolet Cruze, and Chevrolet Malibu. More recently, the two giants announced that they will work together again, this time to come up with a 10-speed longitudinally-mounted automatic transmission for RWD vehicles such as the Mustang and Corvette.
3. Mercedes-Benz X-Class Pick-Up – A Nissan Navara Underneath:
The Renault-Nissan Alliance and Daimler began a strategic cooperation in 2010. The two companies have already begun sharing a number of powertrains across their model line-ups, but perhaps the brightest symbol of their union is the new
X-Class pick-up
 from Mercedes-Benz developed using the
Nissan NP300 Navara
 platform, which also forms the basis of the
Renault Alaskan
. Going the other way, Mercedes-Benz has also provided its MFA platform for Infiniti to develop its
Q30 hatchback
 and
QX30 crossover
.

4. BMW-PSA Prince Engine:
Winner of the 1.4-1.8-litre category in the International Engine of the Year award for eight years running, the Prince engine has been a highly-successful collaboration between BMW and the PSA Group. Known primarily in its 1.6-litre turbocharged form, the Prince engine has powered mainly MINI, Peugeot, and Citroen models, although it was also adapted for longitudinal installation in BMW models such as the
F20 120i
 and F30 316i. Moving forward, the BMW and MINI are replacing the Prince engine with the new 1.5-litre 3-cylinder B38 powerplant, but the PSA Group seems intent to persevere with this engine for the foreseeable future.
5. Ford-PSA 2.2-litre Turbodiesel:
What does the
Range Rover Evoque
 and the
Peugeot 508 GT
 have in common? The same 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine co-developed by Ford and the PSA Group. Widely used by both companies in Europe, the engine also features in Jaguar and Land Rover models as legacy of Ford’s ownership of both brands. JLR is in the midst of phasing this engine out in favour of its new Ingenium powertrains. This engine, however, is unrelated to the 2.2-litre unit that powers the Ford Ranger; that engine hails from a different family.
6. GM – Isuzu Pick-Up Collaboration:
Despite looking vastly different and sporting entirely different powertrains, the
Chevrolet Colorado
 and
Isuzu D-Max
 are products of a long-running collaboration between General Motors and Isuzu. It started with the previous-generation Colorado, a vehicle sold exclusively in Thailand, but was effectively just a restyled and rebadged previous-gen D-Max. The two companies came together again for the current models, but GM has opted to keep the collaboration only to platform sharing and is using its own aggressively-tuned engines to contrast Isuzu’s fuel economy-optimized setups. The partnership looks set to end with this model generation, however, with
Isuzu having agreed to partner Mazda for their next generation pick-up trucks
.

7. Mazda 3 SkyActiv-Hybrid with Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive:
Mazda would have us believe that its range of
SkyActiv engines offer sufficiently parsimonious fuel economy
 that they do not need the added complexity of a hybrid setup. Not that they didn’t try though. In Japan, you can get a
Mazda 3
 that mates Mazda’s 2.0-litre SkyActiv-G engine with hybrid module from the
Toyota Prius
. Elsewhere, the two companies also teamed up to sell a rebadged version of the
Mazda 2 SkyActiv sedan
 as the
Scion iA and Toyota Yaris Sedan in North American markets
.
8. A Jaguar Based On The Ford Mondeo:
Until as recently as 2008,
Jaguar
,
Land Rover
, and
Volvo
 were all part of the Premier Automotive Group owned by
Ford Motor Company
. The legacy of this past is that even today, vehicles from each of these three brands continue to feature Ford engines and platforms although the dependency is gradually being reduced. Back in 2001, Jaguar sought to challenge the likes of the
BMW 3 Series
 and
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
 with the transverse-engine X-Type compact sedan that derived its underpinnings from the Ford Mondeo.


2023 Toyota Prius goes on sale in Japan - available in FWD/AWD and 1.8/2.0-litre powerplants

Well that didn't take long, as Toyota has announced that they have commenced sales of the new-age Prius after debuting it in November 2022.

Unfortunately, it's just the
Prius Series Parallel Hybrid (HEV) models for now
, but Toyota said they would launch the plug-in-hybrid Prius around March this year.

There are eight variants available for the 2023 Prius HEV in Japan, where customers can choose between a 1.8 or 2.0-litre powerplant and front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive system.

The most affordable Prius HEV, is a 1.8-litre 2WD car, and it is priced at 2,750,000 yen(RM91k). The most expensive all-new Prius, for now, is a 2.0-litre car with all-wheel drive(E-Four), and that Prius is priced at 3,920,000 yen(RM130k).

The 1.8-litre 2WD Prius is built for those who want the most fuel efficiency. It achieves great fuel efficiency of 32.6 km/L, which is about 4 km/L more than the 2.0-litre Prius. However, if one wants a more potent Prius, one would have to go for the 2.0-litre car, as it generates 196PS. All variants however are equipped with 4.08 Ah battery pack.

As for safety, all cars come standard with Toyota's latest safety sense, which sees a few firsts, including:

Rear vehicle proximity notification (first for a Toyota brand vehicle)

Using the Blind Spot Monitor's rear millimeter-wave radar, this feature detects vehicles in the rear and, if another vehicle is approaching, it alerts the driver via the Multi-Information Display and buzzer.

Approaching vehicle proximity support(first for a Toyota brand vehicle)

If a vehicle approaching from the rear is too close, this system offers the driver suggestions for dealing with the issue, including contacting the police or the HELPNET emergency call service. In vehicles equipped with a drive recorder, in addition to automatically recording the event, the system stores the data in a dedicated area that makes it difficult to record over.

Secondary Collision Brake(first for a Toyota brand vehicle)

Using the Blind Spot Monitor's rear millimeter-wave radar, this system detects vehicles in the rear and, if it determines a very high possibility of a collision while the vehicle is stopped, it applies the brakes to reduce speed if a rear collision occurs. Compared to the previous model, this system enables an earlier reduction in speed by applying the brakes prior to a collision.


2014 Honda Accord 2.4VTi-L Review – The Car That Changed the Game

You could say that expectations were flying low when Honda unveiled their ninth-generation Honda Accord in 2013. It wasn’t that the Accord name was sullied in any way, it was just that prospects of the Japanese D-segment market wasn’t looking too bright back then. There was very little innovation or change seen in the genre. For years it had seemed that the Japanese D-segment was stuck in a rut. Its major players knocking out the same old upsized versions of their family cars, offering little more than having more legroom and comfier seats.
The Accord was no different. Its predecessor felt like a bigger Civic with more rear legroom rather than Hondas for the executive who wants a bit more class and sophistication. And judging by the Mexican standoff its Japanese counterparts were having, it seemed that there was no reason to believe that the next Accord would turn out to be anything different. How wrong that assumption turned out to be, especially when it came to the range topping 2.4VTi-L.
Honda Accord 2.4VTi-L Specifications
Price: RM173,055 (OTR incl. GST without insurance)
Engine: 2,356cc 4-cylinder i-VTEC, petrol
Power: 175hp @ 6,200rpm
Torque: 225Nm @ 4,000rpm
Transmission: 5-Speed automatic, front-wheel drive
Safety Features: 6 airbags (Sept 2014MY-onwards), 4 airbags (2013-2014MY), stability control, ABS with EBD and Brake Assist, Honda LaneWatch
Origin: Locally-Assembled in Melaka
Exterior – Subtle Class
When initial pictures of the ninth-generation Accord appeared, many were left with an underwhelming impression. Unlike its predecessor, its styling was more evolutionary and wasn’t quite as adventurous as before. However in the flesh the Accord does look the part of a big and proper executive express, its elegant lines serves to accentuate its length and proportions giving it a graceful shape.
Interior – Rethinking Practicality
Although Honda’s engineers had reduced the Accord’s length by 75mm and wheelbase by 25mm compared to its predecessor, their engineers had managed to carve in an additional 15mm in knee room around the back. With further tinkering in the door panel design, Honda was able to expand shoulder room and usable space in the cabin, and as a result the Accord’s interior is big, with acres of rear legroom and generous amounts of shoulder room for all passengers.
Space is also in excess when it comes to storage compartments, with plenty of bins around the cabin that is within accessible reach for you to keep your essentials away from prying eyes.
While the interior feels well built, Honda had put good effort into making it feel a little classier on this new Accord with the addition of dark wood trim on the dashboard, and a large expanse of dark wood trim fitted to the centre console of the 2.4VTi-L. While wood trim has generally been a visual eyesore in this end of the market, the Accord’s glossy fixtures look and feel more presentable than they sound.
Instead of following the pack and settling for a conventional touchscreen infotainment system, Honda had gone the extra mile and developed an ingenious i-MID Control. Rather than having drivers stretch their hands and divert their attention to operate a conventional touchscreen system, a smaller touchscreen is fitted between the front centre air conditioning vents, which allows drivers to easily operate audio and infotainment functions without having to stretch their hands too far from the steering wheel, or divert their attention for long. This interface is complemented by the use of a physical control knob located underneath the air conditioning control panel, which grants access to the infotainment systems other non-audio related functions and menus.
Though first-time users might find the controls confusing, with two different points and methods of navigation in one system, we managed to accustom ourselves to its interface after a few days of usage. Next to Mazda’s intuitive MZD Connect system, the i-MID Control two tier system is one of the most intuitive systems for drivers to use, especially when you are on the move.
How Does It Drive?
For a big and plush executive sedan the Accord drives like a car that is smaller and lighter than it actually is. Its sharp and quick electric steering system gives drivers the impression that they are at the helm of a nimble family car rather than a barge for the upper management to lazily waft around in. Luckily the Accord’s suspension tuning has been done right to back up that impression with excellent body control for a car of its size, and a darty front end.
The 2.4-litre i-VTEC unit is an all-new powertrain which has 175hp and 225Nm of torque at its disposal, both of which are delivered at a rather high 6,200rpm and 4,000rpm respectively. Not that it is much of an issue as the engine revs quickly and its low-end torque is sufficient to punt the Accord around comfortably.
Its 5-speed automatic transmission on the other hand delivers smooth upshifts and snappy downshifts, and is fitted with the right ratios to facilitate a quick pick-up off the line and effortless high-speed cruising. This being the top of the range model, the 2.4VTi-L comes equipped with plenty of amenities for the driver such as cruise control, paddle shifters, keyless ignition, and steering mounted controls for the Bluetooth hands-free system.
How Comfortable Is It?
Now Accords of old weren’t renowned for their ride quality, and instead of throwing their hands in the air and just going with its established reputation, Honda saw it as a place to start in shoehorning some major improvements into the formula. While its suspension is still firmer than its contemporaries, such as the Toyota Camry and the Nissan Teana, its damping is now better tuned to find the right balance in ride comfort and controlled body roll. Its ride quality is more pliant than its predecessor, especially when driven over potholes or bridge joints.
Ride quality aside, there has been major improvements done to the refinement levels in the Accord 2.4VTi-L. There is silicone gel in the Accord’s rear suspension mounting points to reduce vibrations, and active noise-cancelling electronics with the use of better placed sound proofing material to cut the intrusion of external noises. Put these small but significant changes together and the Accord isn’t just quiet on the move, but it is also noticeably more relaxing with one of the best levels of refinement in its class.
Besides being treated to the luxury of such features and its generous rear legroom, occupants to the Accord’s rear quarters are also treated to sunshades for both windows as well as a powered rear screen to keep away the sun, and rear-air conditioning vents.
How Economical Is It?
With a mix of driving on country roads and highways, we managed a fuel consumption figure of 10.6L/100km. Given that we subjected the car to a series of enthusiastic acceleration and hard braking, with three passengers and accompanying luggage on board, 10.6L/100km is a surprisingly good figure for a car with a 2.4-litre engine and 5-speed automatic.
In terms of ownership costs, the Accord comes covered by Honda Malaysia’s 5 Years Warranty with Unlimited Mileage, and has 10,000km service intervals. Thanks to its free labour charge under its Free Service programme at 1,000km, 10,000km, 30,000km, 50,000km, 70,000km, and 90,000km, the Accord’s total maintenance cost tallies up to RM4,201 over a 5-year/100,000km ownership period.
Safety Features
Although Honda says that the Accord boasts the best visibility in its class – when it was first unveiled in 2013 – that didn’t stop them from adding in extra features to eliminate all possible blind spots. Enter Honda’s LaneWatch camera, which made its debut on the 2.4VTi variant. Fitted to the left wing mirror, the LaneWatch camera grants drivers a view of their left flank, allowing them to see for themselves if there is anything hiding in their blind spot from the centre screen. The system is very intuitive to use and is activated at the flip of the left turn signal, or at the press of a button on the signal stalk.
Compared to traditional sonar-monitoring blind spot information systems, the LaneWatch camera is far more effective and reassures drivers by letting them see and judge for themselves what hazards maybe hiding in the Accord’s blind spot. Besides having an impressive all round visibility, forward visibility at night is also greatly improved with the addition of full LED headlights, a first in its class, which dispenses an impressively bright beam light.
Originally when the Accord 2.4VTi-L was first introduced in 2013 it was only equipped with four airbags. However Honda Malaysia upped the car’s safety specification from September 2014 onwards with the addition of two curtain airbags in order to match the high safety specifications on the top of the range variants of their smaller models – namely the City and Jazz. In terms of passive safety, the 2.4VTi-L comes equipped with stability control, ABS, electronic brake distribution, and brake assist.
Conclusion
On all counts the Accord wasn’t just a major improvement over its predecessor, but one that reenergised the whole Japanese D-segment market. With so many first-in-class features being packed into a car and sugar-coated with an attractive pricing at RM173,055, Honda’s move to up the Accord’s game had kicked up a storm in the market. Competitors of course took heed and started bringing more and more unique features to the market in order to challenge the precedence it set.
From the premium-looking 6, the zero-gravity seat equipped Teana, and rumours abound of a refreshed Camry with a hybrid powertrain in the pipeline, the Japanese D-segment players are hard at work bringing a unique aspect to their respective entrants. And yet the Accord with its improved refinement, balanced ride and handling, excellent space utilisation, and class-leading safety features, offers the best of everything that we would look for in a car of its class.
It isn’t every day that a game-changer would come along to shake up the order, and the Accord is that car. Unlike other cars that shook up the formula with a single defining USP, Honda’s new D-segment challenge didn’t turn out to be a flash in the pan with its comprehensive changes and improvements, which makes it the definitive choice today even till today.


Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 CKD vs BMW X5 xDRIVE 45e Hybrid vs Volvo XC90 Recharge vs Audi Q7 3.0TFSI

The luxury-SUV segment continues to evolve and grow into something all this while. European SUVs are one of the best cars around, but which one is the right one for you?

European SUVs. They seem to have all the corners covered, in turn attracting buyers who are smitten by upmarket SUVs. They are comfortable, practical, capable, packed with the latest technology and lets the world know that you have arrived and you're somewhat of a success - if choice of vehicle is a yardstick.

But which one should you choose? The new
Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 CKD
? BMW's kind of new
X5 xDRIVE 45E
? Volvo's not so new
XC90 Recharge
? or Audi's market shy
Q7 3.0TFSI
?

To help you decide, we've put them head to head on an easy to digest spreadsheet.

Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 CKD
VS
 BMW X5 xDRIVE 45e Hybrid
VS

Volvo XC90 Recharge
VS
 Audi Q7 3.0TFSI

Index

Mercedes-Benz GLE

450 CKD

BMW X5 xDRIVE

45e Hybrid

Volvo XC90

Recharge

Audi Q7

3.0TFSI

MSRP

RM 475,501

RM440,745

RM391,150

RM599,900

Engine

3.0-litre turbo six-cylinder petrol aided by EQ Boost mild hybrid system

3.0-litre turbo six-cylinder petrol with eDrive hybrid system

2.0-litre turbo+supercharged four-cylinder petrol with rear axle hybrid electric motor

3.0-litre supercharged V6, petrol

Transmission

9-speed 9G-Tronic

8-speed Steptronic

8-speed gearbox

8-speed Tiptronic

Drivetrain

All Wheel Drive

All Wheel Drive

All Wheel Drive

All Wheel Drive

Fuel

Economy

9.3L/100km (combined)

9.1L/100km (combined)

9L/100km

(combined)

9.7L/100km (combined)

Horsepower

362hp + 22hp EQ Boost

394hp

407hp

333hp

Torque

500 + 250 Nm EQ Boost

600Nm

640Nm

440Nm

0-100km/h

5.7 Seconds

5.6 Seconds

5.8 Seconds

6.3 Seconds

Seating Capacity

7

5

7

7

Wheels

21" AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels

20" M light-alloy wheels in Star-Spoke

20" 10-Spoke Black Diamond-cut Alloy wheel

20" Audi Sport cast alloy wheels 10-Y spoke

Suspension

AIRMATIC adaptive suspension

2-Axle air suspension

Four-corner air suspension

Adaptive air suspension

Airbags

7

6

7

6

Driving Assitance System

 Active Distance Distronic, Lane Tracking, Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System and a 360-degree camera for all-round visibility

Active Cruise Control, Lane departure warning and lane change warning, Front Collision Warning with brake intervention, Rear cross-traffic collision alert and prevention, Heads-up Display, Surround view camera, Parking Assist Plus With Reverse Assistant

Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driving function, adaptive cruise control and lane centring assist, Autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian, cyclist, oncoming vehicle and large animal detection, evasive steering assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind spot monitoring with Steering assist, Rear cross-traffic alert with braking

Hold assist, Audi drive select, Parking aid plus with surround-view cameras

As you can see, they are all pretty much evenly matched. Ok, the Audi is expensive considering that it is down on horsepower and driving assistance systems when compared to the rest but let's also bear in mind that it's a CBU. The BMW X5 45e does seem to be a good package but for those looking for a couple more seats at the rear, the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 CKD would be the better buy.

Of course, the best bang for buck it seems is the Volvo XC90 Recharge. It has power, seven seats, many driving assistance systems and looks good. It's really hard to fault it actually, especially when the XC90 only commands road tax in triple-digit numbers (RM440) unlike the rest of the pack RM1,640).

But not everyone buys an SUV based on the best value proposition. If you want a sporty drive the BMW is probably your best bet. If you want a smooth operator with great interior space then the Benz should be considered.

Whatever it is, they are all mighty machines, but which one suits your needs depends on you!


Toyota Recalls Prius and Lexus CT200h

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) announced that it has issued two recalls for the
Toyota Prius
 and the
Lexus CT200h
.
The first recall covers on the issue of cracked curtain airbag inflators, affecting more than 3,500 units of Prius (produced between April 2009 and April 2012)  and 1,700 units of the Lexus CT200h (produced between December 2010 and April 2012).
During the recall campaign, the cars will be fitted with retention brackets on the curtain shield airbag inflators, which will serve as protectors to prevent the inflator chambers from being ejected into the cabin.
The second recall is to fix the evaporative fuel emission control or charcoal canisters that could have cracks on them on the Prius and Lexus CT200h that were sold in Malaysia. 6,000 units of Toyota Prius (produced between April 2009 and November 2013) and 3,000 units of Lexus CT200h (produced between December 2010 and December 2013) are involved.
There is a possibility that cracks could develop in the coating of the emissions channel due to improper shaping of portions of the channel. As a result of this condition, the cracks could expand over time and, eventually, fuel may leak from these cracks when the car has a full tank of fuel.
During the recall, Toyota says that the fuel suction plate sub-assembly will be replaced.

Recall 1
Issue: Cracked curtain airbag inflator chamber.
Models affected: Toyota Prius (April 2009 - April 2012).
The risk: Curtain shield airbag could partially deploy, inflator could be ejected into the vehicle interior, and hurt occupants pretty bad.
What Toyota wants to do: Fit retention brackets to the inflator chambers.

Recall 2
Issue: Cracked evaporative fuel emission control or charcoal canisters.
Models affected: Toyota Prius (April 2009 - November 2013).
The Risk:  Fuel may leak.
What Toyota wants to do: Replace the fuel suction plate sub-assembly.

No other Toyota or Lexus models are affected by these two specific issues that are the subject of the SSC.
Owners of the affected vehicles will be notified of the SSC and requested to bring their cars to an authorised Toyota or Lexus service centre for the necessary remedies to be carried out. Owners will not be charged anything for the labour and parts involved as UMW Toyota Motor will bear all costs.
Owners who do not receive any notification can obtain clarification by calling the Toyota and Lexus free-phone at 1800-8-TOYOTA (869682) / 1800-8-LEXUS (53987). They can also visit authorised Toyota or Lexus service centres for assistance.


Frankfurt 2017: Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe And Cabrio Facelift To Receive Updated Tech From Sedan

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe and Cabriolet models will soon receive technical updates from the facelifted sedan model which was introduced
earlier this year
. In addition, the AMG performance models – the S63 and S65 Coupe and Cabriolet models respectively, will also receive a host of technical and visual improvements.
Among the highlights are the extended driver assistance systems, the modern control and display concept with Widescreen Cockpit, a new generation steering wheel, and the latest infotainment systems.
Aesthetically, the non-AMG models now receive a new front bumper with chrome-plated front splitter and larger air inlets. The flanks are updated with restyled side skirts and chrome-plated twin tailpipe trims now feature at the rear.
Versions with the AMG Line trim gain a more dynamic appearance with new bumper designs - the front bumper gets enlarged air inlets lined with a pair of chrome-plated fins each.
Both the S-Class Coupe and Cabrio models now receive OLED (Organic-LED) tail lamps fitted as standard – these feature thin layers of organic materials, printed on a glass plate and made to illuminate. A total of 66 ultra-flat OLEDs are fitted within the tail lamp.
On the inside, Mercedes have introduced three new trim inserts (High-Gloss Brown Burl Walnut, Satin-finish Ash Grey and Designo

Magnolia) as well as one new upholstery option - Designo Porcelain/Tizian Red Nappa leather.
Two 12.3-inch high-resolution display screens merge under one shared glass cover to create the ‘Widescreen Cockpit’ – the digital display offers three different visual styles: Classic, Sporty, and Progressive. Alongside certain menu contents, such as trip data or fuel consumption, the driver can now additionally view the navigation data or the ‘ECO’ display in the instrument cluster.
Both models have 'Touch Control Buttons' on the steering wheel that respond to swiping motions like the screen of a smartphone. They enable the driver to control the functions of the instrument cluster, additionally, the ‘Distronic’ and cruise control functions can now be operated directly on the steering wheel. The 'Distronic' proximity assist and Active-Steering Assist functions have also been improved for smoother operation – with considerably greater use of map and navigation data.
The latest-generation Comand Navigation offers fast '3D hard-disc' navigation with topographical map display, photo-realistic 3D buildings and 3D map rotations like the sedan model. Near Field Communication, part of the Comand allows a smartphone to be used as a digital vehicle key. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is also compatible with the updated Comand System.
Also new is the ‘Energizing Comfort’ suite, which links various systems within the cabin, such as climate control, ambient lighting, massage and fragrancing functions to further enhance the physical comfort of the occupants. Up to six programs are offered, each program runs for ten minutes and is visualized on the head unit with colour graphics, backed by a selection of pre-programmed music.
The S-Class Coupe model will be offered with four power plant choices, while the Cabriolet will receive three engine variants when they go on sale mid-2018.
The S-Class Coupe range starts off with the S450 4Matic which features 3.0-litre naturally-aspirated V6 which produces 367hp and 500Nm of torque. The S450 4Matic sends power to all-four wheels through Mercedes-Benz 9G-Tronic automatic and is equipped with a new 'gliding function' which decouples the engine from the drivetrain under certain conditions to allow the vehicle to coast. The S450 is claimed to go from standstill to 100km/h in 5.5 seconds.
The S560 4Matic which also serves as the point-of-entry for the S-Class Cabrio range, uses a detuned version of a Mercedes-AMG developed 4.0-litre bi-turbo V8, capable of producing 469hp and 700Nm. The Coupe model also features cylinder-deactivation technology, to further improve fuel economy. Performance figures are identical in the Coupe and Cabrio models with the 0-100km/h dash completed in 4.6 seconds.
As for the Mercedes-AMG performance models, both the Coupe and Cabrio models are offered with as the S63 4Matic+ and S65 models respectively.
The S63 is now powered by a twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 (downsized from 5.5-litres) which is tuned to produce 612hp and 900 Nm between 2750 and 4500rpm. Power output is up 35hp but torque numbers are identical to the pre-facelifted model. The engine is mated to the AMG Speedshift 9-speed multi-clutch automatic, featuring a Launch Control function. Power is sent to all-four wheels through AMG’s 4Matic+ all-wheel drive system.
Both the S63 4MATIC+ Coupe and Cabrio are claimed to accelerate from 0-100km/h in 3.5 seconds, onto a limited top speed of 250km/h.
The S65 AMG flagship Coupe and Cabriolet models are powered by the mammoth 6.0-litre twin-turbo V12, which produces 630hp and a whopping 1000 Nm between 2300-4300rpm. This engine is mated to the older AMG 7-speed twin-clutch gearbox which sends power exclusively to the rear wheels. There is no increase in output for the S65 Coupe and Cabrio models.
Despite the higher power output, the S63 4Matic+ beats the S65 in the century sprint, which (both Coupe and Cabrio) require 4.1 seconds. Like the S63, the S65’s top speed is electronically limited to 250km/h, although the S63 and S65 Coupe and Cabrio models respectively, will readily hit 300km/h if specified with the AMG Driver’s Package.
Visually, the Mercedes-AMG models now feature the ‘Panamericana’ radiator grille to set them apart from non-AMG models. Along the flanks, new forged light-alloy rims, measuring 19-inches for the S63 Coupe and Cabrio and 20-inches on the S 65 Coupé and Cabriolet. Round the back – an updated rear apron with diffuser insert is flanked by AMG twin-tailpipe exits.
Elsewhere, the 'Race Start' function available in the S 63 4Matic+ Coupe and Cabrio, has been simplified – when in Sport and Sport+ modes, the driver simply mashes the brake pedal while simultaneously pressing the accelerator to prompt the car’s electronics to modulate the optimum engine speed for rapid launches.
The new S-Class Coupe & Cabriolet models respectively will celebrate their world premiere at the upcoming 2017 Frankfurt International Auto Show.


Can I Buy a Proton X50 with RM1,200 Gaji?

So, the newly unveiled
Proton X50
 has been the talk of the town over the past week or so, and looks like it will continue dominating the internet and social media for at least another few months to come, but just how much is it?

While most of the technical details, specifications, list of features, and variants have been revealed, the juiciest detail of them all; the price, is yet to be announced officially, which means that whatever you saw on Facebook or your WhatsApp is nothing more than just Grade A bullshit.

However, rumour has it that it could be priced from the RM80,000 region all the way until the RM100,000, which actually makes sense as the model will be priced lesser than the Proton X70 which is priced from RM94,800 on the road.

Since the hype and excitement is off the roof, and SUVs are all the rage over the past decade or so, the
Proton X50
may just be the ultimate SUV rakyat (at least until the Perodua D55L arrives) that can fulfill the dreams of many of us middle-class people. A well-packaged SUV that is also somewhat affordable.

“But just how much money do I need to be making if I want to buy the X50?” seems to be the million-dollar question that is lingering in many minds right now.

“Gaji RM1200 boleh ke bang?” was also a question that was trending on many automotive social media pages.

So, assuming that the price would fall between RM80,000 and RM100,000 range, after paying 10% down payment, and an interest rate between 2% to 3%, our estimate is that you would be paying between RM800 and RM1,000 per month over a period of seven to nine years.

So, with a salary of RM1,200, and a car loan payment of RM800 per month at least, if you think that you can live comfortably for the month with RM400, please go ahead and get one.

According to a few experts and financial consultants whom we spoke to about this, best practice is to spend nothing more than one-third of your monthly income on a car loan.

So, what this means, dear friends who earn RM1,200 per month, is that you should not spend more than RM400 for your vehicle in order to maintain a financially stable life.

Coming back to
the X50
 – since our guess is that it is probably going to have owners spending around RM800 to RM1,000 per month, the owner should earn a minimum of RM2,400 per month. Even then you should first ascertain if you have other commitments, and believe in things like savings and putting money aside for a rainy day.

If you’re one of those who have no commitments, and firmly believe that you can spend half of your monthly earnings or more on a vehicle, feel free to get your hands on the brand spanking new Proton X50!

Once again, the prices, numbers, and figures mentioned above are all estimates and guesses, and they may not be accurate, so let us patiently await the official price announcement before we start doing the maths on whether RM1,200 gaji can get you an X50. We'd recommend an EX5 instead.


Brembo's Sensify Is A Revolutionary New Intelligent Braking System

Brembo's Sensify is ready to take brake technology into the 21st century.

Shift by wire, steer by wire, and throttle by wire, these are all the current 'By-Wire' systems currently being implemented/ developed for the modern car, so it's natural that brakes would be next in line for the by wire system too.

One of the companies
 trying to take this brake-by-wire system to another level is
Brembo
. According to the famed Italian brake component manufacturer, they are planning to develop their own brake-by-wire system with artificial intelligence, which according to them, will improve safety and driver experience.

Hydraulic
brake systems
 have been used in the automotive world for over 100 years now. Although electronic systems are now aided through the introduction of modulators on ABS systems, the basics of the system still remain the same.

But with the rise of electronic technology, it seems that the brake system using the classic tried and tested hydraulic system may also disappear soon because Brembo has introduced a new generation brake system called Sensify, which not only no longer uses conventional hydraulic systems, but instead assisted by advanced software along with
artificial intelligence
 (A.I.) technology.

Sensify eradicates the typical hydraulic circuit on the brake system. There is no main pump (brake master pump), so the brake pedal does not require a booster unit to make it easier to press the pedal. Instead, the pedal is connected to a module that will send a signal to the main computer box (ECU), giving input on how the pedal is pressed.

The ECU receives input from the pedals and
monitors
 other essential parameters such as friction on the road surface, car weight, weight distribution, car speed, and steering angle. Two ECUs are used in each of these Sensify systems - one for the front wheels and another for the rear wheels. However, these two ECUs are still connected to each other for situations such as fail-safe functions, if there is a malfunction.

Both ECUs control each actuator for each brake caliper independently, allowing each caliper to deliver different and more precise braking power to each wheel based on the situation. The actuator is placed close to each caliper, allowing it to operate with a short hydraulic circuit.

According to Brembo, each actuator is equipped with twin coils for safety purposes, and the Sensify system itself has received type approval from the relevant authorities in most markets.

With Sensify, systems such as ABS, EBD and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) will no longer require a conventional modulator as it can be provided directly by the ECU aided by A.I. technology, providing precise braking power on each caliper separately.

With this system, the brake characters such as feel on the pedals and response can be changed and tuned much more easily as it now uses a fully electronic system. In fact, it can also store different tunes for each driver.

The Sensify system is currently being tested on a Tesla, and the feedback seems promising - especially when the driver can adjust the feel, movement distance and brake pressure by using an app.


Spyshot: All-New Kia Forte/Cerato Spotted, 2018 Debut Likely

The third generation Kia Cerato has been caught for the first time ever. The Cerato is also known as the Forte elsewhere, as the name is used interchangeably between markets. Malaysians are familiar with both models, as Naza Kia Malaysia offered the Cerato as a replacement to the Forte.
According to
The Korean Car Blog
, the new Kia Cerato will be a distant cousin of the Kia Cee’d, the latter set to debut at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show in March.
Whilst the test mule here was donned in heavy camouflage that covered most of the car’s key design elements, the lone front end photo allowed us an early peek at the headlight and front foglight design. In addition to that, we can expect the new Cerato’s front lower grille to be wider than the outgoing model.
Not much else is known about the all-new Cerato, though Kia did release photos of the Novo Concept, which could be a hint of the new model’s design. On top of that, the new Kia Cerato is expected to feature more advanced driver assistance like Forward Collision Warning and Lane Departure Warning.
Closer to home, the Kia Cerato/Forte isn’t expected to be introduced here until Q4 2018, though a 2019 launch is more likely.
Photo credit:
The Korean Car Blog