Ferrari Unleashes the 812 GTS and F8 Spider in Malaysia

Naza Italia, official importer and distributor of the Ferrari brand in Malaysia, has taken the wraps off two new models yesterday – the 812 GTS and the F8 Spider.

The more exciting model out of the two is of course 812 GTS, which is essentially the convertible version of the 812 Superfast.

The big news with the 812 GTS is that the car’s rear section has been completely redesigned, to make way for the retractable hard top and its stowage compartment.

The retractable hard top, which opens in 14 seconds at speeds of up to 45 km/h, does not impinge upon the interior dimensions, thus maintaining the donor car’s roomy cockpit.

Powering the 812 GTS is the same 6.5-litre naturally-aspirated V12 engine as the Superfast, which produces 800 PS and 718 Nm, paired with an F1 DCT seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox.

Thanks to the powertrain, the 812 GTS does the century sprint in just under 3 seconds and clocks a top speed of 340 km/h, making it the most powerful Ferrari convertible ever.

The F8 Spider on the other hand, which was designed in parallel with the F8 Tributo berlinetta, is here to replace the 488 Spider.

Weighing 20 kg lighter than its predecessor, the F8 Spider is significantly more aerodynamically efficient too, and features the latest version of Ferrari’s Side Slip Angle Control system.

Power comes courtesy of the same twin-turbo 3.9-litre V8 engine as its coupe sibling, which makes 711 hp and 770 Nm of torque. In terms of performance, the F8 Spider does the century run in 2.9 seconds, and is able to clock a top speed of 325 km/h.

The F8 Spider’s engine also inherits highly efficient weight-reduction solutions from the 488 Pista which have cut the power unit’s weight by 18 kg compared to that of the 488 Spider.

On the exterior, the entire front end has been redesigned to highlight the extensive aerodynamic modifications made to this area of the car. The clearest example is the new, more compact, horizontal LED headlights.

The rear spoiler has also been entirely redesigned. It is now larger and wraps around the tail lights, visually lowering the car’s centre of gravity and allowing a return to the classic twin light cluster and body-coloured tail, another styling cue from the early 8-cylinder berlinettas like the very first in the legendary series, the 308 GTB.

The retractable hard top takes just 14 seconds to deploy, and can be closed or opened while the car is on the move up to 45 km/h.

Inside, the F8 Spider’s cockpit retains the classic, driver-oriented look typical of Ferrari’s mid-rear-engined berlinettas. A concept that creates a symbiotic relationship between driver and car, very much as happens in F1, with all controls mounted on the new generation steering wheel. The sporty seats are also new.

The dash incorporates an aluminium sail panel supporting the central satellite and continuing into the dash itself. Also to create a sense of visual lightness, a sliver of carbon fibre divides the upper and lower parts, streamlining the whole look. This section also incorporates the optional 7” touchscreen passenger-side display and the dash is completed by the classic instrument cluster with its central rev-counter.

That being said, the Ferrari F12 GTS and the Ferrari F8 Spider are priced at RM 1.54 million and RM 1.18 million respectively. Both cars are available for private viewing in Malaysia from now until the 31st of May. To make an appointment or for further details, contact the Ferrari Malaysia Showroom.

It is also worth mentioning that both the F12 GTS and F8 Spider come with Ferrari’s extended seven-year maintenance programme. Available across the entire Ferrari range, the programme covers all regular maintenance for the first seven years of the car’s life.

This scheduled maintenance is an exclusive service that allows clients the certainty that their car is being kept at peak performance and safety over the years. This service is also available to owners buying pre-owned Ferraris.


Lotus Evija X - the electric hypercar taking on Nürburgring's lap record challenge

Lotus aims for Nurburgring Electric-Car Lap Record with track-ready Evija Prototype.

Lotus is setting its sights on breaking the electric-car lap record at the Nürburgring with a highly modified version of its powerful Evija hypercar.

Developed in collaboration with race engineering firm Multimatic (the guys that worked on the Ford GT and Mercedes-AMG One), this bespoke prototype is designed for optimal track performance.

Although Lotus has not officially confirmed its intention to surpass the Volkswagen ID R's record lap time of 6 minutes 05.336 seconds, it is evident that the track was exclusively booked for this prototype run, taking advantage of ideal conditions for a practice session.

Just like how Autocar reported,  the standout feature of this prototype is the impressive swan-neck spoiler at the rear, reminiscent of those seen on Pikes Peak race cars.

The Evija X, as it is referred to, represents an advanced technological concept based on the Evija road car. It has undergone extensive testing on various racetracks across multiple countries in recent weeks.

Lotus issued a statement emphasizing its progress and commitment to pushing the limits with the Evija and its exceptional electric powertrain.

The modifications made to the Evija X include carbon fibre side skirts for enhanced downforce, a large front splitter, and canards to optimize aerodynamics during the 12.9-mile lap of the Nürburgring.

Beyond its race-oriented modifications, the Evija X is expected to deliver even greater power than the standard Evija, which already boasts an impressive 1972 horsepower.

Lotus Malaysia opened the ordering books for the Evjia in 2021
, price tag? A cool RM16 million

As a dedicated track machine, it has likely undergone rigorous weight reduction measures to shed mass from the road car's 1700kg curb weight. With a focus on speed rather than endurance, this prototype is likely equipped with a smaller battery pack compared to the standard Evija.

Notably, the Evija X showcases several stripped-out elements, such as the removal of headlights, brake lights, and wing mirrors. The interior too appears to be stripped down to accommodate a full race-spec roll cage.

While not officially confirmed, Autocar also reported that the Evija X could be the inaugural project from Lotus Advanced Projects (LAP), a newly established division dedicated to developing extreme limited-run vehicles that diverge from Hethel's road car lineup.


LEAKED: All-New Toyota Innova Pops Up With Radical Restyling

In a report on
Indian Autos Blog
, the all-new
Toyota

Innova
 has been purportedly leaked in an image that first made its appearance on the publication
Fly Wheel
, claimed to be sourced from Thailand.

Based on the grainy image, we can see a large redesign of the vehicle that adopts a new front end in line with Toyota’s new design language as seen on
spyshots of the new Hilux
.

Rumours point to a new ladder frame chassis as its underpinnings with the familiar 2.0-litre petrol engines in place with turbo diesel options available as well, paired to either a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission.

Stay tuned for further updates on the all-new Toyota Innova.


2022 Civic Type R Comes To Life Through Rendering

Will the 2022 Honda Civic Type R look like this?

When Honda launched the
2022 Civic Hatchback
 a couple of weeks ago and mentioned that a Type R version would be making its way into the market in 2022, fans couldn't help but imagine what it would look like?

Well, if your imagination has been running wild thinking what the spruced-up 2022 Civic Type R might actually look like, then ponder no more as KDesign AG has come up with a rendering that portrays a good picture of what it might look like.

Honda has kept the Civic Type R as a five-door hot hatch since 1997, and we can expect the upcoming one to be no different. So while the rendering by KDesign AG is basically a 2022 Civic Hatchback with all the loud spoilers, splitters and large air intakes, it's probably the closest thing we will get to a vivid picture of the performance car.

The rendering assembles together the new 2022 Civic Hatchback with the aggressive body kit of the current Type R. They also squeezed in the iconic red Honda emblem and Type R badge onto the new slim grille of the 2022 Civic hatch. The distinctive triple exhaust pipes from the current Type R have also been mashed into the rendering giving the rear end a very familiar look. The only feature of the rendering that the current Type R has not influenced is the clean bonnet as the current Type R has a vented one.

Considering that the
2022 Honda Civic Sedan
 and hatch have somewhat of a conservative design approach, we're not sure whether the 2022 Honda Type R will be as loud as the rendering.

We will know more next year when Honda unveils the Type R alongside the Honda Civic Hybrid. All we know for now is that the Type R will come with a manual gearbox, and that's about it.

With the Type R ethos all about being light and uncomplicated, perhaps we will see a smaller engine underneath the bonnet. But then again, with the current trend of electrification, it will probably be paired with an electric drivetrain. There have been speculations that it might come with an all-wheel-drive system with three electric motors, which should give the car around 400hp.

Who knows, because all this electrification adds weight to the car and goes against decades of Type R methodology. Anything more than an FWD system on a Type R is considered blasphemous, but perhaps, just perhaps it's time for a change.

The current Type R utilises Honda's K20C1 2.0-litre turbocharged four-pot that makes 306 hp and 400 Nm, mated exclusively to a six-speed manual gearbox. It famously
smashed
 the Nurburgring FWD record in 2017.


Review: Renault Koleos 2.5L 4WD – Second Time Lucky

Popular American chef, writer, and television personality Giada Pamela De Laurentiis, who hosts the Food Network's ‘Giada at Home’ program, once said that we eat with our eyes first, hence why it is very important for a dish to look great, regardless of how it tastes.
Not only do we agree with what Giada said, but we feel that the same rule applies to the car business as well.
In order to be successful, a vehicle should not only be reliable and drive well, but look good in the first place. Otherwise, it is pretty much doomed to fail.
A good case in point would be the first-generation Renault Koleos - the French marque’s first mid-sized SUV which was co-developed with Nissan.
Built on the Renault-Nissan Alliance’s C-platform and powered by Nissan’s QR25DE 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine, the first-gen Koleos was essentially a Nissan X-Trail underneath, which makes it pretty capable and reliable.
However, as good as the recipe was, the presentation was a disaster. The Koleos looked so undesirable that only a handful of people with questionable taste had it.
By the end of 2010, Renault started withdrawing the SUV from many markets around the world due to poor sales, and 5 years later, production finally ended.
Having received the message loud and clear, Renault took the Koleos back to the drawing board in an effort to make it more desirable, and boy did they do a fantastic job this time.
Introduced at the 2016 Beijing Motor Show, the second-gen Koleos arrived in Malaysia later the same year, but only in 2WD guise, priced at RM172,800.
The 4WD version which we are looking at now, only made its Malaysian debut a year later in 2017 as an addition to the 2WD version.
Specifications:
Price: RM201,800 (CBU, OTR without Insurance)
Engine: 2.5-litre, Inline-4 Transverse, Petrol
Power: 171 PS at 6,000 rpm
Torque: 226 Nm at 4,400 rpm
Transmission: CVT, 4WD
Safety: 6 airbags, ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Control, Hill Start Assist, ISOFIX
Origin: Fully imported from Korea
Overview
Priced at RM201,800 (OTR without insurance), the Koleos 2.5L 4WD is powered by Nissan’s 2.5 litre QR25DE naturally-aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine which produces 171 PS and 226 Nm, which is the same engine which powers the Koleos 2WD and also the Nissan X-Trail.
Paired to the engine is an X-Tronic CVT-type gearbox which sends the power to all four wheels via the All Mode 4x4-i Technology four-wheel drive system.
Unlike the 2WD version, this variant comes with three drive modes– 2WD, 4WD Auto and 4WD Lock – which can be selected using a switch located on the right side of the steering wheel.
Going against models like:
Nissan X-Trail 2.5L (RM159,200)
Honda CR-V 1.5 TC 4WD (RM161,600)
Mazda CX-5 2.2D GLS AWD (RM173,086)
Kia Sorento 2.4 HS (RM172,748)
The Koleos 4WD is only offered as a 5-seater in Malaysia, even though the X-Trail which shares its underpinnings with, comes with a 5+2 seating configuration.
On the exterior, the Koleos 4WD comes with full LED ‘Pure Vision’ headlights, LED DRLs, 18-inch alloy wheels, and hands-free power tailgate as standard.
Inside, the 5-seater SUV is quite generous with equipment as well, offering leather upholstery, R-Link 8.7-inch touch-screen infotainment system with navigation and AUX/USB/Bluetooth connectivity, Arkamys audio system with 8 speakers, 7-inch TFT display, Dual zone air conditioning with rear blowers, three 12V power sockets, 4 USB ports, ambient lighting as standard.
Where safety is concerned, the Koleos has six airbags, ESC, traction control, ABS with EBD and BA, as well as hill start assist as standard. Other additional kit include fatigue detection, a blind spot monitor, lane keep assist and speed limit signboard recognition.
Exterior
Built on the Renault-Nissan Alliance’s CMF-CD platform which also underpins the current T32 Nissan X-Trail, the Koleos measures 4,673 mm long, 1,678 mm tall, and 1,843 mm wide, with a 2,705 mm long wheelbase.
If we put it next to the X-Trail, the Koleos is 33 mm longer, but 13 mm narrower and 37 mm shorter. The wheelbase length remains the same though.
Design wise, the Koleos adapts Renault’s “Powerful Design” theme, sharing many visual cues with models like the new Megane.
Featuring the brand’s signature C-shaped DRLs, a large, striking chromed front grille, taillights that stretch all the way to the middle of the rear, and twin exhaust tips, the Koleos does not only look much better than the model it replaces, but also many of its rivals.
What we love about this Koleos’ design is that, even though it is essentially an X-Trail underneath, it looks nothing like it and portrays a much more premium appearance.
In fact, it looks so grand that it fits perfectly among European SUVs that cost almost twice as much.
Interior
The first thing we noticed when we sat inside the new Koleos was how spacious it was. Not only was it spacious but comfortable too.
Well, not as comfy or luxurious as a Lexus but definitely better than a CR-V or a CX-5.
In the rear, there was more head and leg room than we could ask for. The rear seats, which came with ISOFIX mounts, were just as comfortable as the front seats, making the Koleos a superb vehicle for families to travel long distances in.
Refinement and build quality was top notch, with a generous dose of leather and soft-touch materials that make the Koleos’ cabin look and feel better than most Japanese SUVs out there.
Where practicality is concerned, the Koleos has a combined 35 litres of space in the cabin just to store things like water bottles, mobile phones, power banks, and what not.
Further back, there is 579 litres of boot space, which can be increased to 1,795 litres when the 60/40 split-folding rear seats are folded.
What we love the most about the Koleos’ cabin is that there are two 12V power sockets and a USB charging port in the rear, on top of the ones in the front centre console.
This is actually a dream come true in this day and age because every time we travel with family or friends, there will always be someone in need of a phone charger.
Providing us with the necessary information and entertainment was the 8.7-inch R-Link vertical touch-screen infotainment system which takes centre stage on the dashboard.
Since all multimedia, GPS, air-cond, and phone controls can be accessed via the touch-screen; there are very few buttons on the centre-stash, giving the dashboard a modern, minimalistic look and feel similar to new Volvos.
Driving it
On the road, the Koleos proved to be an enjoyable vehicle to be in. The 2.5-litre engine delivered adequate push at all times, although the CVT gearbox wasn’t the most responsive around when we worked the engine harder during acceleration.
Despite its height, the Koleos has minimal body roll around bends, which makes it among the better driving SUVs in class. A good thing is that no comfort was compromised as it is quite impressive when it comes to soaking up bumps and uneven surfaces.
What we didn’t like was that the CVT’s infamous “whine” could be heard occasionally during hard acceleration, and road noise was also making its way into the cabin at high speed. But when driven at lower speed in the city, it was very quiet.
Off road, the Koleos could handle sand, gravel, and mild bumpy terrains in 4WD and 4WD Lock (50:50 power split between front and rear axles) modes, but we didn’t dare push it further, given its RM201,000 price.
Its 213 mm ground clearance, 19-degree approach angle and the 26-degree did help in clearing small rocks and uneven surfaces, but this was not a vehicle which can be adventurous as a Toyota Fortuner or an Isuzu MU-X which come with higher ground clearance, higher approach and departure angle, more power, and also further assistance from features like hill-descent control.
Conclusion

From something so undesirable, the Koleos has transformed into arguably the best looking SUV among its rivals. Not only is it handsome, but also spacious, easy to drive, practical, and capable.
As for the 4WD variant which we tested, it is even more talented – capable of going off the beaten track to a certain degree – but to be honest, we don’t really expect buyers to take the Koleos off-road, which makes it difficult to justify spending RM30,000 more for this 4WD variant. We reckon most Koleos owners will only drive in urban surroundings.
In fact, those who are looking for an SUV which can go off-road are more likely to go for models that offer better off-road abilities for the same price or even lesser, like the Toyota Fortuner, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, or the Isuzu MU-X.
As capable as it is, the Koleos 4WD doesn’t really offer the bang for your buck because rivals with AWD like the X-Trail 2.5L (RM159,200), Honda CR-V 1.5 TC 4WD (RM161,600), Mazda CX-5 2.2D GLS AWD (RM173,086) are way cheaper.
So, if you really adore the Koleos,
the 2WD version (RM172,800)
, which is quite competitively priced for what it has to offer, is the one to go for.


MyRapid Says Kelana Jaya LRT Train Wait Time To Increase Due To Brake-Related Repairs

The waiting time for trains along the Kelana Jaya LRT  line is due to increase from 2.7 minutes to 3.4 minutes during peak hours beginning from 14
th
 September 2015 to allow for brake caliper replacement work by the rail supplier Bombadier Transportation on four trains.
Mr. Ahmad Nizam Mohamed Amin, Chief Executive Officer of Rapid Rail Sdn Bhd, which manages and operates the rail LRT and Monorail service, said the average waiting time is expected to increase roughly 40 seconds from where it is currently.
This is due to a total of four wagons operating on the Kelana Jaya line needing to be removed for an extended period of time to enable repair works following a number of brake system-related incidents this year.
"Although these actions will affect passenger comfort, it had to be taken to ensure the safety and smooth operation of Kelana Jaya line LRT system in the long run.
 "However, services outside peak hours, weekends, and holidays will continue to operate as usual", according to Ahmad Nizam.
He added that the intensive repair works, which are scheduled for completion by November 6
th
 2015, has been approved by the Land Public Transport Department (SPAD) recently.
To compensate for the frequency of trains, Ahmad Nizam said there will be an influx of non-stop shuttle buses will be provided for free on the first week of the affected time frame, beginning September 14. These buses will run on some of the route’s main trains stations to KLCC during the morning and evening peak hours.
"We will continue non-stop shuttle bus service free of charge if it got a good response from passengers".
 "We would like to apologise for any inconvenience that may arise and would like to suggest that passengers plan their journeys in advance," said Ahmad Nizam.


Antivaksin Buru Sijil Vaksin Demi Kelonggaran Rentas Negeri, Dine-in Dan Lain-Lain

Beberapa
kelonggaran dan kemudahan kepada individu yang telah lengkap menerima dos vaksin
 yang diumum kerajaan telah membuatkan sesetengah golongan antivaksin kini giat memburu sijil vaksin bagi turut serta menikmati kelonggaran tersebut tanpa menerima suntikan.

Antara kelonggaran yang diberikan adalah
pasangan jarak jauh
 dan ibu bapa yang mempunyai anak berumur bawah 18 tahun dibenarkan untuk rentas daerah dan negeri untuk berjumpa. Selain itu, aktviti keagamaan seperti solat di masjid juga memerlukan mereka untuk mempunyai
dos lengkap
.

Bukan itu sahaja, kini
negeri di Fasa 1 PPN
 dibenarkan untuk makan di kedai atau
dine-in
. Malah semakin banyak premis perniagaan yang memerlukan pelanggan untuk menerima 2 dos lengkap terlebih dahulu sebelum menawarkan perkhidmatan kepada pelanggan tersebut. Ini membuatkan golongan antivaksin untuk bertindak untuk mendapatkan sijil sehingga sanggup bayar sehingga RM1,000.

*Kredit foto: Berita Harian

Klinik swasta merupakan antara entiti yang sering diganggu oleh golongan antivaksin untuk memalsukan sijil vaksin mereka. Mungkin juga mereka ini bukan golongan antivaksin, tetapi hanyalah golongan yang terdesak untuk mendapatkan sijil secepat mungkin untuk tujuan rentas daerah/negeri atau atas urusan pekerjaan.

Tapi bila nak difikirkan semua, kos untuk menerima suntikan vaksin di klinik swasta baru berharga RM350. Jadi tindakan menawarkan RM1,000 hanya untuk mendapatkan sijil vaksin ini agak mencurigakan. Kalau boleh berbelanja lebih, kenapa tak ambil di klinik swasta sahaja kalau terdesak?

Bukan itu sahaja, ada juga kes-kes seperti individu yang pergi ke
Pusat Pemberian Vaksin (PPV)
 tetapi enggan menerima suntikan. Mereka hadir hanya untuk merekodkan bahawa mereka telah hadir mengambil vaksin untuk menerima sijil.

Doktor merupakan antara individu yang sering menerima permintaan untuk mencatatkan golongan ini sebagai penerima vaksin meskipun mereka menolak suntikan tersebut. Golongan ini terdesak kerana tanpa sijil vaksin, pergerakan mereka akan sedikit terbatas dan mereka juga mungkin tidak dibenarkan untuk bekerja.

Walau bagaimanapun, menurut laporan The Star, bilangan individu yang melakukan perkara berikut masih lagi berada dalam angka kecil. Mujurlah sudah ramai
rakyat Malaysia
 yang sedar dengan kepentingan vaksin ini. Oleh kerana sijil vaksin ini sedang menjadi buruan, jangan sekali berkongsi maklumat pada sijil vaksin anda dengan orang lain!

Bagi Individu yang telah menerima sijil vaksin, anda dinasihatkan agar:

Jangan kongsi screenshot sijil vaksin digital anda di MySejahtera pada orang lain

Elakkan daripada berkongsi sijil vaksin penuh anda di media sosial

Lapor polis sekiranya sijil anda digunakan oleh orang lain

Peringatan bagi premis perniagaan yang menerima pelanggan:

Semak profil pelanggan di MySejahtera, pastikan status COVID-19 itu dikemaskini mengikut tarikh terkini dan tahap risiko berada pada tahap rendah atau berwarna biru

Semak sama ada pelanggan telah cukup tempoh matang vaksin lengkap – 14 hari selepas 2 dos Pfizer, AstraZeneca atau Sinovac atau 28 hari setelah dos Johnson & Johnson atau CanSino

Pastikan semak di MySejahtera, bukan melalui screenshot

Untuk lebih selamat, periksa sijil individu tersebut di aplikasi kerajaan iaitu Vaccine Certificate Verifier

Semak maklumat kad pengenalan pelanggan dengan maklumat pada sijil vaksin

Kini ada juga perniagaan yang menawarkan perkhidmatan untuk mencetak sijil anda untuk diletakkan pada kad. Sejujurnya, tindakan tersebut agak berbahaya kerana anda akan berkongsi maklumat sijil vaksin anda kepada pihak lain dan ia berpotensi untuk disalah guna oleh golongan yang tidak beretika.

Cara yang paling selamat adalah dengan menyimpan kad serta sijil anda di dalam profil
MySejahtera
 sahaja tanpa berkongsi dengan mana-mana individu. Cukuplah sekadar menunjukkan kepada mana-mana premis perniagaan yang ingin dimasuki sahaja kerana sijil tersebut mempunyai maklumat peribadi anda.

Lindung diri, lindung sijil vaksinasi! #KitaJagaKita


Thousands Of Taxi Drivers Planning To Gather In Protest Of SPAD Chairman Come November 18

If a statement by the Malaysian Taxi Drivers Transformation Association (Pers1m) is to be believed, taxi drivers will gather in the thousands to hold a demonstration against SPAD come November 18
th
.
The words came from the association’s deputy chairman, Kamarudin Mohd Husain. The drivers are reported to plan gatherings at three locations within Kuala Lumpur before marching down the city streets to a single “secret location”, writes The Star.
These three locations were said to be Padang Merbok, the Kuala Lumpur Mosque, and the Craft Complex close to Jalan Conlay.
"We don't want to go against the Government. What we will do on Nov 18 is get the Government's attention," said Kamarudin in Sentul while addressing a crowd of over 100 taxi drivers that were organized through the Klang Valley Taxi Drivers Action Committee.
He added that he expects a turnout of more than 6,000 taxi drivers would congregate for the mid-November protest, believing that their strength in numbers would force the hand of SPAD chairman Tan Sri Syed Hamid Albar and lead to his resignation.
"We don't want SPAD to be dissolved, but the trust given to Syed Hamid Albar has been wasted."
According to him, SPAD had neglected the taxi drivers’ best interests and had failed to manage the taxi industry – seemingly turning a blind eye to the spread of ridesharing apps such as Uber and GrabCar taking business away from taxis.
Kamarudin admitted that they have not obtained a permit from the police for the gathering, but did not think it would be a problem procuring one.


Spyshots: 2018 Ford Focus Testing In Snow

The next generation Ford Focus enters its advanced testing phase with European spy photographers capturing a test mule in action under snow.
The five-door hatchback tester wore heavy camo, but exposes its halogen reflector headlamps upfront and gives us glimpse to its large presumably trapezoidal grille that is the staple of current Ford design.
Less is exposed at the rear, but telling clues are nevertheless visible. The door shutline is all new, and we can see the rear quarter glass now incorporated into the rear door, thus giving the new car a completely different glass area from the current model.
The test car also uses fake disguise tail lights, but the pattern of deployment suggests more horizontal-shaped tail light cluster flowing into the rear tail gate.
As with the
current model
, the 2018 Focus is expected to be a global car by Ford. Anticipate an early-to-mid 2018 global debut.
Pictures:
Stefan Baldauf


Porsche's Facelifted 911s Previewed In Photos Ahead Of Frankfurt Debut

An all new-generation of
Porsche

911
 to follow up the Type
991
 is set to be introduced in 2018, and in between, a midway refresh is coming our way later this year. But ahead of its Frankfurt Motor Show reveal, Porsche has released pictures of the newly revised flagship.
They reveal a number of near-ready prototypes that a team of in-house engineers have taken to Cape Town, South Africa for a field test, negotiating mountain roads, villages, and dusty dirt tracks.
We don’t get to scrutinize much of the visual changes that come with the facelift, as Porsche placed some strategic darkened camouflage to cover the most apparent differences. Suppose we’ll have to wait until September for that.
While raw specification details have yet to be released, a major change includes
turbocharging
 to the 911’s flat-six engine to replace the naturally-aspirated units found previously. This somewhat displaces the more powerful Turbo model, as its key differentiator is now found on the more common Carreras.
Reports from the UK suggest the new generation of turbocharged flat six motors will be 3.0-litres in capacity, at least for the Carrera variants. Power ranges from 365hp to 414hp in the more powerful Carrera S. By comparison, the outgoing 3.4 and 3.8-litre naturally aspirated engines produced 345hp and 394hp, respectively.
However, upcoming facelifted versions of the Type 991 Turbo, GT3, GT3 RS, and rumoured GT2 will reportedly still keep their larger capacity engines.
The move to turbocharging allows the newer cars to achieve a higher peak torque and more flexible power delivery across the rev range, which is reported to be 7500rpm. In addition, the facelifted Carrera and Carrera S motors claim to significantly improve fuel economy by around 10 percent over its predecessor, as well as reduced carbon emissions.
Hybrid-powered Porsche 911s
 are expected to make landfall in the next all-new generation of the sports car, tentatively dubbed the 992.
Also coming to the Frankfurt Motor Show is the long-rumoured
Porsche Pajun
, a sedan that will be based on the next-generation
Panamera
 but smaller to slot in beneath in the Porsche pecking order.
You can have a look at the full gallery below.


I’d Rather Have This All-New DS 4 Than An A-Class

Remember when Naza launched the DS 7 Crossback? It’s fine if you’ve forgotten - I probably would have too if it wasn’t my job. The Tiguan-sized luxury crossover had looks that could make your knees buckle but a brand presence that was next to nonexistent with Malaysian buyers.

When it was initially
launched in June 2019
 (after being previewd at
KLIMS 2018
), the public response was tepid in the face of a RM200k five-door mid-size
SUV/crossover
. It’s great exterior design and luxurious interior finishings couldn’t save itself from being seen as a Peugeot 3008 with a big price hike. Very few were sold and this writer has yet to even seen a single example on our roads.

Last year’s slight spec bump lead to a baffling price revision of RM260k and was announced in April, about a month after the first MCO took effect on March 18th, dooming any slim chance the fully imported DS 7 Crossback (and DS Automobiles Malaysia, under Naza) had at gaining new customers.

It’s a huge missed opportunity, though, as the vehicle’s premium credentials weren’t just a load of hot air. While the badge may lack the prestige and provenance of Mercedes-Benz, the DS7 Crossback looked incredible, had a strong engine, was built very well, and had a stylish and plush interior that could put the Germans to shame.

This recently revealed second-generation DS 4 is even more of a looker, doubling down on some rakishly handsome design cues and a low-slung silhouette that’s sleek as hell. Rarely is the production version of any car look more striking and aesthetically balanced than the concept, but that’s the case here against the 2020 DS Aero Sport Lounge.

Its premium appeal is clearly a signal that DS Automobiles (which now stands independently from Peugeot or Citroen as PSA’s designated luxury marque) is taking the fight directly to the likes of BMW, Audi, and yes, Mercedes-Benz.

This all-new hatchback sure does make a compelling case for itself upon first impressions. Sitting on the modular EMP2 platform that already underpins many Peugeots and some Opels, the C-segment DS 4 range hopes to cover the majority of buyer tastes by offering the standard DS 4 hatch, the GLA-rivalling and more crossover-like DS 4 Cross, and finally the sportier DS 4 Performance Line.

At this juncture, not all of these variants have been fleshed out, but the initial line-up will be spearheaded by the DS 4 Cross. This adds a lower bumper and perimeter, cladding with a nicely integrated aluminium skid plate, and a more advanced off-road oriented traction control system. With only a modest ride height increase and 19-inch wheels as standard, however, we doubt it’ll be able to traverse the countryside beyond paved roads.

Any journey in the DS 4 will be uncommonly comfortable and refined, too, with an active suspension system that self-adjusts damping for all four wheels based on readings from a front-mounted camera and sensor array to scan the road ahead. Alongside this, the infrared camera is continually on the lookout for pedestrians and animal hazards for up to 200 metres in total darkness.

Besides the typical driver aid features such as Autonomous Emergency Braking and Level 2 semi-autonomous capabilities, high sensitivity radar sensors on the DS 4’s side allow it to perform long distance blind spot monitoring (up to 75m) and rear traffic warnings to more effectively prevent collisions.

DS offers the DS 4 with PSA’s range of PureTech petrol engines with up to 225hp or a 130hp BlueHDi turbodiesel, all mated to an Aisin-sourced 8-speed automatic driving the front wheels. The DS 4 E-Tense is a plug-in hybrid that pairs a 180hp 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with a 110hp electric motor for a combined output of 225hp and a claimed electric-only range of 50km.

Barring some miracle, though, and given the poor performance suffered by DS Automobiles Malaysia so far, we’ll probably never see this second-generation DS 4 arrive on Malaysian shores in any official capacity.

While distributorship of its sister marque Peugeot has been
taken up by Berjaya Auto Alliance
, Citroen and DS haven’t managed to find new local residence - at least not yet.

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

Check out all the best new & used car deals in Malaysia at
Carlist.my.

Sell your car fast with the best offer? Visit us at
CarlistBid.my
.


Daimler’s smart to Develop B-Segment Cars With Geely – Future Proton Persona/Iriz From smart?

Germany’s Daimler AG and China’s Zhejiang Geely Holding Group (Geely Holding) have announced today that they are forming a 50:50 joint venture in China to further develop Daimler’s smart (lower case intentional) microcar brand.
The new joint venture will see a new generation of electric smarts to be produced at a new dedicated factory in China, which will then export the new Daimler-Geely smart cars worldwide. Production is slated to begin in 2022.
The next generation of smart cars will be styled by Mercedes-Benz, but engineering will be done by Geely’s global engineering centres. The latter says a lot about how far China’s Geely has come.
Currently, smart has three models – fortwo, forfour, fortwo convertible. The four-door forfour is jointly developed with Renault (Twingo), and is produced at Renault’s Novo Mesto plant in Slovenia. The two-door fortwo is produced at Daimler’s plant in Hambach, France.
The partnership with Renault will cease when the current generation smart forfour runs out, while Daimler’s Hambach plant, which currently makes the fortwo, will be retooled for the next generation of EQ-branded compact Mercedes-Benz cars, including the
EQA
.
As the smart brand is no longer present in Malaysia, this piece of news has very little relevance to Malaysians except for one short line found in the two companies’ joint announcement. It says:
“As part of the vehicle-development program, the smart product portfolio is also planned to be extended into the fast-growing B-segment.”
The so-called B-segment sub-compact cars is the obvious missing link in Geely’s rapidly modernizing product portfolio. In China, Geely sells several models in the Proton Persona/Iriz class, but none of it are good enough to match a Toyota Vios or a Honda City – which are dominant here.
It also explains why the
Proton Persona
 and
Iriz
 were given another round of facelift recently and replacement for these cars are still nowhere in sight.
With B-segment smart models coming into the market after 2022, there is a possibility these Geely-engineered but smart-badged Toyota Vios/Yaris and Honda City/Jazz rivals could be sold as a Proton.
Of course, unlike the Proton X70, rebadging a smart into a Proton is not as straightforward as the vehicle is the result of a joint venture with Daimler, so Daimler will still have some say in it. Still, since Daimler’s involvement is limited only to styling, the engineering work done by Geely could still find its way to
future Proton models
.


Honda Malaysia Recalls Odyssey And Accord Over Battery Sensor And Door Mirror Component

Honda Malaysia has announced a product recall for the Accord and Odyssey involving a battery sensor failure and defective door mirror component.
In the case of the battery sensor failure, the issue is caused by inaccurate forming on the PCB in the battery sensor which could cause a short circuit, resulting in smoke emitting from the bonnet or in the worst case, a fire. 20,233 units of the Honda Accord models are affected, built between 2013 till 2016.
As for the defective door mirror component, Honda said that the inconsistent surface treatment of the movable contact area inside the door mirror retracting switch can cause the mirror to retract during driving or parking. A total of 27,912 units of the 2013 – 2016 Honda Accord models are affected, while 971 units of the 2014 – 2017 Odyssey models are affected.
Honda Malaysia said that replacement parts availability is at 50% for both the battery sensor and the defective door mirror component. Affected customers are advised to make an appointment with any Honda authorized dealers to replace the parts.
Thus far, there has been no reported incidences of fire, crashes or injuries as a result of these faulty parts in Malaysia.
Honda customers can check their vehicle recall status by checking
www.honda.com.my
 or
www.productrecall.honda.com.my
 or by calling the Honda Toll Free number – 1-800-88-2020.


This Toyota Supra From The First-Ever Fast And Furious Movie Is Going Up For Auction

Now here’s a piece of movie memorabilia that anyone would be proud to own. What you see here is a 1993
Toyota
 Supra stunt car that Paul Walker (playing the character Brian O’ Conner) drove in 2001’s The Fast and the Furious. Best part is, this very car is going up for auction next month at Mecum Auctions’ 28th Original Spring Classic 2015 event.

Yes, this is the very car that was used throughout the movie, including in the final race scene where Paul races Vin Diesel aka Dominic Toretto’s Dodge Charger. Here’s a refresher:

The car is built by Eddie Paul at The Shark Shop in El Segundo, California. Being a stunt car, it was featured heavily throughout the movie and had to be fitted with stunt suspension and a roll cage to handle all the action.

To look the part, the Supra is fitted with an APR wing, Bomex body kit, Dazz wheels wrapped in Yokohama tyres, Roadboy foglights, and Modern Image decal graphics. The interior also receives some modifications with a Sparco steering wheel and bright blue seats inside.

Sadly, those dual NOS/Holley Performance nitrous oxide bottles in the trunk aren’t attached to anything and serve purely as a visual spectacle.

Under the hood, a 2JZ-GE 3.0-litre in-ine six-cylinder engine produces 220hp, mated to a five-speed manual transmission so you can relive all the gear-shifting sequences from the movie. Whether that’s enough to take on a Ferrari 355 Spyder like in the movie, we’re not sure.

If you’re interested, Mecum Auctions’ 28th Original Spring Classic 2015 is where you’ll need to be from May 12 to 17. The vehicle is currently listed on duPontREGISTRY.com.


Review: 2017 Proton Ertiga 1.4 Executive Manual – A Fresh Alternative

While half the world was grumbling about how 2016 was a miserable year and it is destined to be forgotten forever, it was without a doubt, a fruitful year for some. Look at Donald Trump for example.
He beat all the odds and took us by surprise by winning the American Presidential elections.  Bad news for some it may be but to him, it was jackpot baby!
And then, we have our beloved national car brand, Proton. From being a little lost for many years, the brand came back, hit the ‘Reset’ button, and Voila – Four new models in a year; the
Perdana
,
Persona
,
Saga
, and the
Ertiga
 which you are looking at now.
Now, say whatever you want to say but credit has to be given where it is due. Even though nobody forced Proton into this act of valour, they made a promise, delivered, and things are looking like they are slowly but surely turning for the better.
Before you conclude that this article has been paid for just because we have a couple of good things to say, let us allow the numbers do the talking shall we?
As of October last year, the Persona had already received more than 10,000 bookings with, while the Saga received 4,000. The Perdana on the other hand received more than 1,100 bookings.  What about the Ertiga? 1,400 already
bro…
And it was launched only in end November.
So, to give us an opportunity to have a go at the MPV, Proton invited us over to their headquarters in Shah Alam and asked us to drive the Ertiga to Sekinchan and even threw in a fuel efficiency challenge to show how economical this thing can be, with our weapon of choice being the lower-spec manual variant.
Specifications
Price: RM58,800
Engine: K14B 1.4-litre, Petrol
Max power: 95 PS
Max torque: 130 Nm
Transmission: 5-Speed manual
Fuel efficiency (observed): 21km/L
Safety: Dual frontal airbags, ABS, EBD, and ISOFIX mounts.
Origin: Assembled in Tanjung Malim
Overview
Built on an extended version of the
Suzuki Swift’
s platform, the Ertiga is offered here in three variants:
Executive M/T - RM58,800
Executive A/T - RM61,800
Executive Plus A/T - RM64,800
Sharing the same 1.4-litre K14B powerplant as the Swift which produces 95 PS and 130Nm, all three variants get the same engine, only with a choice of either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed auto.
Fuel consumption is rated at 5.7 litres/100km for the manual version and 6.0 litres/100km for the auto. Both numbers are obtained from testing under the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) and thus qualify the Ertiga as an energy efficient vehicle in Malaysia.
Here to compete in the small MPV segment against the likes of the
Perodua Alza
,
Toyota Sienta
,
Avanza
,
Honda BR-V
 and the
Nissan Grand Livina
, the Ertiga is assembled in Proton's Tanjung Malim plant with CKD packs supplied from Suzuki's plant in Indonesia. At present, the vehicle only sports 15 per cent local content.
As tested in its Suzuki format, the Ertiga is rated four stars by ASEAN NCAP, but unlike recent models, none of the variants on offer have electronic stability control – Suzuki didn’t design the vehicle this feature in mind, and Proton was not given liberty to exercise any engineering changes to the vehicle.
This explains why the safety kit of the Ertiga reads rather short by today’s standards – dual frontal airbags, ABS, EBD, and ISOFIX mounts.
Exterior
Measuring at 4,265mm long, 1,695mm wide and 1,685mm tall with a wheelbase length of 2,740mm, there is very little difference between the Proton version and the original Suzuki. Besides the grille, the extra chrome bits and the bumpers, nothing much has changed.
In terms of size, the Ertiga is almost equal to the Alza, but it is bigger than the Toyota Avanza overall.
As far as the appearance is concerned, there is nothing much to talk about as it is still a conservative looking people carrier playing in a segment where the function plays a bigger role than form. So, if good looks are your priority, you may want to look at the Sienta.
Interior
There are high chances for you to mistaking the Proton Ertiga for the Suzuki Swift once you get inside as the interior has been carried over lock, stock, and barrel (except the steering wheel cover).
Love it or hate it, the Ertiga’s cabin only comes in this Beige colour scheme you’re looking at, and although there is enough space to seat seven passengers, it is legally allowed to ferry only six, because that's the number of seat belts it has.
Rear passengers in the Ertiga get their dose of cold air with roof-mounted multi-speed blowers. These blowers take in cold air from the front section of the cabin but get a dedicated cooling coil.
Comfort wise, the Ertiga passes with flying colour for a vehicle in its category while NVH level was also very decent. We even found it to be more refined than rivals that cost much more like the Toyota Sienta. You can still hear the engine when you’re accelerating but it was never a nuisance.
Space was never an issue in the first two rows but it was a premium in the third row. Adults can definitely sit behind but if you’re a six-footer, things are going to be a bit tight.
While the second row of seats can be folded in 60:40 configuration, the third row are 50:50 split-foldable, and they all fold flat, making it an excellent vehicle to load huge amount of cargo.
Overall, the Ertiga’s cabin was very decent in terms of space, comfort and refinement, but for a vehicle that is being sold in this point of time, there is not much gadgets to fiddle with.
We also like how for once, the cabin of a vehicle in this price range doesn’t feel cheap. We are not sure if we should thank Suzuki or Proton for this but it doesn’t matter.
Driving it
As we mentioned before in the pre-launch first impression article, the Ertiga is still a Suzuki. So, there is no surprise that the Ertiga drove with pleasing fluidity and excellent mechanical refinement.
On paper, 95 PS doesn’t sound all that great but it pulled delightfully with a spirited engine note. Plus, since the unit which we drove was a manual, the MPV felt just like a Swift, lively and responsive but with slightly more body roll due to the length of the vehicle.
But despite the increase in height, the Ertiga felt stable even at speeds of about 150km/h on the highway. In addition, damping also exceeded our expectations as all the bumps, lumps and potholes along the Kuala Selangor roads were tolerated and absorbed smoothly.
And never once did it show any signs of struggling during our stint with it. So, if you’re wondering if the Ertiga can ferry six people up Genting Highlands, the answer is yes, absolutely.
How economical is it?
First and foremost, there is no denying that this is among the more affordable choices in the small MPV category. So, monthly instalment will definitely not blow a big hole for those from the middle class who are looking for a decent family vehicle.
And then, since it’s powered by a 1.4-litre engine, road tax cost will be cheaper than most of its rivals that come with 1.5-litre engines. Besides that, the fact that the Ertiga is quite basic means that there is less electronics and gadgets, which translates to lesser maintenance cost.
Last but not the least, in terms of fuel economy; we managed to stretch the Ertiga to an extent where it returned 4.7L/100km. But since we were in a fuel efficiency challenge, we were driving slower than usual.
When we drove it normally, we were able to achieve 6.2L/100km, which can be considered as a good figure by today’s standards.
So, overall, what you’re getting here is a package that is well worth the RM60,000 you spend on it.
Conclusion
There is no denying the fact that the Proton Ertiga is a decent proposition. Not only does it drive well, but it also feels more lively and refined than many vehicles that cost much more.
However, it bothers us that it lacks some fundamental features like the Electronic Stability Control (ESC). But then again, many of its rivals also face the same issue.
Being a Suzuki-built vehicle, its quality and reliability has already been proven where the Ertiga has been sold before this. Plus, it is also a somewhat fresh alternative for those looking for a budget MPV, who were only left with the Alza, Avanza and what not over the past 10 years.


60% Jalan Persekutuan Di Malaysia Dah 'Expired' – Kos Baik Pulih Tinggi

Jika anda merasakan jalan raya
di bandar-bandar semakin teruk
, itu kerana jalan itu telah mencapai tarih luputnya atau
expired
!

Menurut Menteri Kanan Kerja Raya Fadillah Yusof, kira-kira 60% Jalan Persekutuan di negara ini sudah
rosak
atau luput tempoh hayatnya dan perlu diperbaiki dengan keperluan peruntukan kira-kira RM3 bilion.

Kos Baik Pulih Tinggi

Memandangkan peruntukan yang tinggi diperlukan, Fadillah berkata pihaknya sedang mengadakan rundingan dengan syarikat konsesi selain mendapatkan maklum balas dari semua kementerian mengenai hala tuju pembinaan dan pembaikan semula jalan yang sudah luput tempoh hayat itu.

“Sebab itu, kita nak bekerjasama dengan beberapa pihak dan pendekatan kita adalah pelbagai namun yang penting kita kena bina baharu (jalan) supaya keselesaan serta keselamatan jalan itu terjamin kepada pengguna,” katanya.

*Kredit foto: MBS

Peruntukan 130 Juta Baik Pulih Laluan Kaki Lima

Fadillah mendedahkan sejumlah RM130 juta peruntukan tambahan telah diluluskan Kementerian Kewangan bagi kerja-kerja penyenggaraan berkala pavemen di jalan persekutuan seluruh negara secara
one-off
 pada 13 September lepas.

Katanya kelulusan peruntukan tambahan ini adalah bukti kerajaan persekutuan prihatin dalam isu berkaitan penyenggaraan infrastruktur negara, khususnya jalan raya seterusnya membuka peluang perniagaan kepada kontraktor kecil khususnya gred G1 hingga G4.

Beliau berkata semua peruntukan telah selesai ditawarkan kepada kontraktor di negeri semenanjung melalui 180 kerja bernilai RM113 juta dan RM17 juta lagi disalurkan kepada kontraktor di Sabah, Sarawak dan Labuan melalui 17 kerja.

“Kesemua kerja-kerja ini dianggarkan dapat disiapkan dalam tempoh sebulan setengah atau pada November depan,” katanya


iCarData: The Best Time To Buy/Sell - Mercedes-Benz C200 Avantgarde (2017)

Between the big two German luxury automakers in Malaysia, there has always been a tug of war when it comes to the hearts of consumers, as well as a somewhat predictable cycle of appeal and popularity. With the rather strong introduction of the refreshed A-Class model range back in 2013, Mercedes-Benz saw a massive increase in popularity, especially among a younger, fresher audience.

Following that formula, they revised their model range, and with that came the W205-generation C-Class, which proved to be quite a remarkable hit globally as well as locally. Since then it has been replaced by the W206, but over the course of its 7-year model run, it was made available in a number of different variants that were added and removed over the course of time.

W205 Mercedes-Benz C-Class: Variants and powertrains

The brunt of the variants were powered by a singular turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol power plant in various states of tune, but there were also hybrid variants in the form of the C350e, as well as the more potent AMG models that you could get in Mercedes-AMG C43 and C63 flavours. At the other end of the spectrum was the C180 - the only variant to come with a turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol unit.

Still though, what proved one of the most popular variants was the simplest of the 2.0-litre models: the
C200 Avantgarde
. With deliveries of the W206-generation C-Class trickling out, does it make sense to look at the previous generation model? Does it remain a value proposition? We explore it in detail below.

As mentioned before, the
C200 Avantgarde
 was on the more budget-friendly end of the C-Class spectrum. It packed a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine pushing 184 hp and 300 Nm of torque – not mind-blowing figures, but certainly no slouch either. The 2017 model year introduced a few changes, namely cosmetic upgrades in the form of larger wheels and a bit of de-chroming, as well as a significant technical upgrade with the newer 9G-Tronic automatic transmission.

Back in 2017, the C200 Avantgarde also saw a mild price bump in its retail price, pushing it up to          RM253,888. It happened to also be the cheaper of the two C200 variants, with the C200 Exclusive coming with a different look and a few additional cosmetic items and features such as adaptive high beams and a sunroof. The Avantgarde styling is a more minimalist approach that’s been common on Mercedes-Benz products over the last three generations in an effort to distance itself from its more traditional multi-slat grille from the past.

Here’s the breakdown:

Mercedes-Benz C200 Avantgarde 2017

Being one of the more popular German luxury cars in our market, it’s no surprise to still see these models on the road in a variety of different trim levels. The
C200 Avantgarde
 was just a step above entry-level, giving you a little more shove and a little more luxury for a little bit more money. It wasn’t quite as decked out as the more expensive variants of the C-Class, but enough that you could tell you were definitely in a premium vehicle.

2017 Mercedes-Benz C200 Avantgarde

Year

Car Age

(Years)

Avg Advertised

Price (RM)

Retained Value

Percentage

Depreciation

Percentage

Cumulative

Depreciation Sum

(RM)

2017

Launch Year

213,943.58

84%

16%

39,944.42

2018

1

205,298.60

81%

19%

48,589.40

2019

2

184,859.29

73%

27%

69,028.71

2020

3

169,554.85

67%

33%

84,333.15

2021

4

166,507.02

66%

34%

87,380.98

2022

5

166,644.79

66%

34%

87,243.21

Through our collected data over the last five years, we can examine the depreciation of the
C200 Avantgarde
 from the year it was launched, up until the pricing that you can see now. The first year of depreciation always hits the hardest, and in this case, it was a whopping 16% of the total price of the car, or just under RM 40,000.

From here, depreciation sees a relatively steady percentage change until the fourth year of ownership, after which the selling price stabilises with roughly 34% total depreciation over the final three years of the collected data.

Mercedes-Benz C200 Avantgarde 2017: Depreciation and best time to buy

We can interpret this in a couple of ways. The first is that it would make sense to purchase your
C200 Avantgarde
 at four years old to avoid the largest hits in depreciation. However, through 2021 and 2022, the slowdown of car deliveries and global supply chain issues, on the whole, resulted in an artificial car price inflation, so one cannot expect this price to be the floor price for the C200 Avantgarde.

However, it must be said that traditionally, cars in this segment don’t fall a great deal further in terms of residual value. The predecessor to this C200 Avantgarde surprisingly tends to bottom out around the RM 60,000 mark (even at the 10-year-old mark), and with more technology and luxury packaged in this model, you can expect higher residual values too.

There are plenty of reasons for you to purchase a C200 Avantgarde, and it all comes down to your perspective and individual needs. It’s a great introduction to the Mercedes-Benz model family, if compact cars in the form of the A-Class family aren’t quite your thing, and it comes with that hefty technological step forward from the previous generation models that makes ownership and operation much easier.

On the other hand, if you’re an existing Mercedes-Benz owner, it would be a great addition to your garage as a reliable fallback – perhaps something you may provide for a very lucky child if they prove they can be responsible enough. It has all the safety systems and luxuries one would want, without a dangerous amount of power to handle.

Perhaps the only sore point would be the fact that the newer Mercedes-Benz models come with an even larger leap forward in terms of infotainment and interior design – especially with the MBUX system coming standard with the successor to this model. The dual-screen layout and overall connectivity improvements are certainly reasons to spring for a newer model – but one also can’t argue with a price difference of over RM 200,000 to a four-year-old W205 C200 Avantgarde.

For some great deals on a used Mercedes-Benz C200 Avantgarde with a
1 year warranty
& no hidden fees, check out
Carsome
. If you're not happy with your purchase, bring your car back within 5 days to get a full refund. More info
here
.

If you're looking to sell your car, we have a solution for you too. Trade-in your car with
carsome.my
 and get up to an RM1,500 discount voucher for your next upgrade


MazdaSports Academy for CX-5 Owners – 13th and 14th October 2018

Following the success of their first programme in June, Mazda Malaysia will soon host the second round of its MazdaSports Academy “Advance Driving” programme specifically for owners of the Mazda CX-5 SUV.
Set to take place on the 13th and 14th October 2018 at MAEPS, Serdang – the MazdaSports Academy aims to deliver on specially designed driver experience programmes where participants can experience the
Jinba-Ittai
 spirit of the Mazda CX-5 SUV.
With the “Advance Driving” programme, participants will learn to
experience being one with their Mazda
 and discover ones driving potential. They will learn to find their perfect driving position and enhance their driving ability through a dynamic driving practical course.
The event is limited to thirty spirited Mazda CX-5 owners per day. Mazda Owners that wish to join may do so by registering their interest via
Mazda Malaysia’s Facebook Page
.


Frustrated Kampung Pangi Sabahans Build Own Train and Track

What do you do when life gives you lemons? Like the residents of Kampung Pangi in Sabah, you could make your own train and track.

Sabahans really are a resolute bunch, and this latest bit of news coming out of Kota Kinabalu really shows that rather than sit around and moan about things they instead prefer to take the bull by its horns.

After promises to build a road were never fulfilled, residents in Kampung Pangi, Sabah, came up with their own solution and created a homemade railway track to travel to Tenom, some eight kilometres away, to transport crops and purchase necessities.

Picture credit, FMT

According to FMT, "the 500 residents of Kampung Pangi have been finding it difficult to go out to buy necessities and deliver crops because the village is not connected by road. Unfortunately, this lack of access also affects three other villages nearby, including Kampung Rayoh."

While others would have sat idly by and waited, which would not have improved their situation, these villagers have impressively created a homemade track and cart so that life may get better. Of course, it was primarily used in urgent situations whenever trains did not run, but little did they know that their creation would bear fruit even further during the now more challenging times.

The Movement Control Order or
MCO 3.0
 has at the moment ceased the train operation to Tenom from the village, and while this would usually be a problem, the homemade track and cart have come in handy and saved the day.

The villagers have been forced to utilise this track even more due to the
FMCO
, and impressively, they have evolved their cart and turned it into a motorised one.

If that is not inspiring enough, then the story behind how the motorised carts were made will be. The motorised carts were created by a group of village youths who learned how to make them through YouTube.

Former Kampung Pangi chief Udin Bakiwoh, said "We know this (motorcycle trolley) isn't allowed, but what else should we do if there are no roads to our village?

"Thankfully, we have this motorcycle trolley; at least we have a vehicle that helps us travel to Tenom to buy necessities and deliver crops, like bananas and rubber," he told FMT.

Udin hopes that the government will take this lack of access problem seriously as it could help the village people, especially those who could prosper even more.

"All we ask is for a road to Tenom. This village has many successful young people – we have lecturers and police inspectors, but we are still stuck without a suitable route for vehicles.

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

Check out all the best new & used car deals in Malaysia at
Carlist.my.

Sell your car fast with the best offer? Visit us at
CarlistBid.my
.

Get your latest
new car promotion
 here also.


Proton Hari Raya Promotions – Monthly Instalments from as low as RM367

It’s that time of the year again when stonking deals from nearly all car manufacturers are dished out as commonly as the dates and sirap bandung drinks that grace every buka puasa feast, in anticipation of the nation’s biggest celebrations come Hari Raya.
Proton today announced its balik kampung raya campaign; among the deal highlights that await punters are:
·         Rebates of up to RM3,000 on selected 2016 Proton models and many more great deals, from now until 30th June 2016. Financing packages from as low as RM367 monthly instalment for a Proton Saga.
·         15% discount on selected Proton parts, from 1 June to 31 July 2016
·         20% discount on labour charges, from 1 June to 31 July 2016
·         Free 20-point safety checks at all authorised service centres from now until Hari Raya and at selected petrol stations one week before Hari Raya
PROTON will also conduct Pick-up and Delivery services in selected locations for those that may be unable to send their cars for a service before the festive period. In high traffic areas of the Klang Valley, such as Mutiara Damansara, Setapak, Bukit Maluri and Section 13, Petaling Jaya – owners within a circa 5km radius will be offered the service, however, customers are advised to call these service centres directly as it works on a first come first serve basis.
Proton has also announced its commonplace campaign to be stationed at various petrol stations nationwide one week before Hari Raya so that customers are able to get their cars checked on their way to their destinations. The exact locations of the petrol stations will be announced in due course.


2016 Volkswagen Passat (B8) Now Available With Head-Up Display

The eighth-generation
Volkswagen Passat
 isn’t due for a
local debut anytime soon
 but over in Europe, a new head-up display (HUD) can now be specified for the whole Passat range offered there.
This includes the Passat Saloon, Passat Variant, Passat Alltrack and Passat GTE where the HUD can be had as a €560 (RM2,332) option.
The 10 x 15cm transparent display is located behind the dashboard in front of the driver and is activated by a separate control next to the rotary light switch, where at a push of a button, rises into the driver’s field of vision. It is capable of displaying on 480 x 240 pixels, various information ranging from the current vehicle speed, speed limits, and navigation data.
Volkswagen
 say the advantage of this HUD system is that alerts are projected into the driver's immediate field of vision, allowing for a reduced reaction time. In addition, the driver's eyes do not need to refocus so often from far-field to near-field vision.


Perodua To Increase Local Engineering Input For Upcoming Sedan Model

Perodua will be increasing its involvement in the upper body engineering work for its upcoming sedan model, said reports The Star.
Speaking on the sidelines of the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show, Perodua President and CEO Datuk Aminar Rashid Salleh said the upcoming sedan model will have an upper body designed by Perodua’s team and the remainder of the car such as the engine and platform will still be from Daihatsu.
Upper body engineering refers to vehicle’s exterior body panels, and general construction of the body structure area behind the engine’s bulkhead and above the floorpan. All current Perodua models have had some level upper body engineering work done locally, which explains the differences in exterior styling and dashboard of Perodua models from their Japanese- or Indonesian-market counterparts.
As Daihatsu does not have any sedan models in their global line-up, creating the Perodua sedan will require a lot more upper body engineering work than previous Perodua models.
“Based on our more than 20 years of partnership, Daihatsu has allowed Perodua to be more involved in the design and development of our vehicles.
“In this process there has been transfer of technical and engineering knowledge as well as transfer of technologies,” he said.
At the same time, a representative from Daihatsu Motor, Perodua’s technical partner, senior managing executive officer said “Having the car’s upper body part designed by Perodua will create a better product that suits the Malaysian market.”
At the last 2013 KL International Motor Show, Perodua showcased the GMS Buddyz Concept, which is believed to preview Perodua’s first sedan model. We expect Perodua to give a sneak preview of the car by end-2016, before launching it in 2017.


CONFIRMED: Tesla is coming to Malaysia

The
Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI)
 has officially announced that T
esla
 is coming over to Malaysia.

MITI Minister, Tengku Zafrul, made the announcement on his social media pages welcoming the EV brand into the local market with the message that MITI has finally approved Tesla's application to import their products into Malaysia.

In the post, MITI also stated that Tesla will establish three key aspects for the brand's future presence in the country. In the near future, Tesla will set up its Head Office, Tesla Experience & Service Centres, and most importantly, the brand's Supercharger network.

It's indeed quite an achievement for this particular approval from MITI as Tesla is the first applicant of MITI's 'BEV Global Leaders' initiative. The goal is to further boost the demand for EVs in the local market, something that has been constantly growing in the past few years.

This will also establish a pool of job opportunities directly related to the giant global EV brand in terms of skills development as well as 'better paying jobs'. Don't ask about prices though, we're pretty sure it won't be that much more affordable compared to all the grey imports that are already here in the country.


QUICK REVIEW: 2022 Aston Martin DBX - Keeping The British End Up, Sir. High Up

The DBX is an odd bird: part SUV, part sporty grand tourer, and part AMG brute. It’s Aston Martin’s first SUV, first all-wheel drive vehicle, but their third production car with more than two doors after the
Lagonda
 and Rapide (or 4th if you count the ultra-exclusive Lagonda Taraf).

It’s got a lot to prove, surely, but more important than that is the PR dance that accompanies the controversy of an SUV entering the ranks of any ‘pureblood’ performance luxury brand. Aston Martin Malaysia lists a starting price of RM818,000 excluding taxes, duties, and customisation options, so it’s worth having an additional few hundred thousand Ringgit in reserve for those.

Before we dive in, it’s worth pointing out that this isn’t going to be a full-blown review as we had only a day with the DBX to inform our opinions on it.  While this is plenty to solidify first impressions and a general grasp of what it offers and how it delivers a unique experience, we’re limited in knowing how it might be to live with.

An Aston SUV….How Did We Get Here?

It isn’t like high-end sporty SUVs have suddenly started popping into existence over the past few years. They’ve been an established category in the automotive space, first legitimised by the Porsche Cayenne back in the late 1990s. In fact, many credit its surging popularity with singlehandedly saving the German automaker from financial ruin.

With this in mind, it isn’t too surprising that Aston Martin has waded into these contentious waters with the
DBX
. Though they’ve survived rougher tides, they needed an addition to their line-up that would garner them the boost in sales volume necessary to prosper. What is surprising is that it has taken so long for the rest of brands under the VW Group to get the same idea.

The Lamborghini Urus, Bentley Bentayga, and Audi SQ8 are, like the Porsche Cayenne has been for over two decades, all spawns of the latest Volkswagen Touareg, but have only started entering the market within the last 5 years.

This coincides with when Aston Martin started gauging public interest with a two-door high-riding coupe they presented at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show called the DBX Concept. The name stuck, obviously, and the British firm was probably already set on it reaching production.

In the intervening years, a technical partnership with Daimler AG was inked with a 5% stake given away, netting Aston Martin's cars access to AMG powertrains. Hence, the M177 4.0 bi-turbo V8 found in the DBX as well as the Vantage and DB11.

However, it would still require them to develop a completely new architecture as none of their previous cars could realistically form a basis for a new model so alien to the brand. It needed to be a functional, spacious SUV, not just a high-riding Rapide wagon.

Is It
An Aston
?

Good question. Unfortunately, I’m not any authority on what even constitutes a ‘real Aston’. The DBX definitely isn’t one in the traditional sense, either.

Clearly, the design team worked very hard to make this shape and its larger SUV dimensions work in the context of their more svelte GT coupes, but it’s just missing that wow factor that makes you purse your lips when it rolls by.

Key ingredients are here: the ‘frowny catfish’ Aston front grille, vents on that imposingly long bonnet, fender strakes, flush door handles, and a Vantage-like light bar at the rear that sits just below an integrated ducktail spoiler. It’s a very beautiful SUV, however, and without doubt the most visually arresting of any of its peers.

This is especially true up close where you can more easily appreciate the details and surfacing work that result in such a cohesively taut shape that hides a relatively big vehicle so successfully.

Inside, things get a little strange. There’s a lot of space and you’re made very aware of this with the interior being bathed in light from that panoramic glass roof. Yes, the blue is almost overwhelming but it’s actually the sheer volume of leather that’s unrelenting.

Build quality is pretty solid - but shy of Audis, Porsches - and there’s a good balance of digital and finely machined analogue touchpoints. There’s a big screen in the middle and another in the instrument cluster, so it is sufficiently high-tech.

However, with the gear selector being high up on the centre console (in typical Aston Martin style since the original Vanquish), they are no longer at arm’s reach like they were in their GT cars’ smaller, cozier cabins.

This might seem like a trivial gripe but it informed so much about what the DBX’s priorities are, which doesn’t seem to regard the driving experience quite as highly.

Driving The DBX

Firing up the AMG engine felt familiar, despite Aston’s insistence that much has been done to give the M177 a distinct (British?) personality. That said, revving it up revealed a throatier, higher-pitched shriek that definitely isn’t of Affalterbach origin - thanks to a bespoke exhaust system and some engine tuning to dial in the harmonics.

Speaking of tuning, this motor produces 550PS and 800Nm which makes itself very apparent even at low speeds. This engine is known for its near zero-lag responsiveness and that urgency doesn’t seem to have been fazed by the DBX’s 2.2-tonne kerb weight.

Complain all you want about Aston Martin no longer producing in-house V8s, but having such a competent (albeit German) motor in their arsenal is already proving an invaluable asset, especially given how much time and money would need to be poured into R&D in order to produce a comparable alternative.

Aston claims about 4.5 seconds to 100km/h and that’s easily believable, put your foot down and the performance is rampant in a straight line, probably partly due to those fat Pirellis and AWD giving hand-of-God levels of instant traction.

However, the
DBX
 can’t escape physics and there’s a certain numbness about the way it shoots up a set of curves. It’s very sharp and confident at the front and, especially mid-corner, but most of the time the chassis feels distant.

The Porsche Taycan convinced me that supreme vehicle handling can be achieved with air suspension even when handicapped with plenty of mass/inertia, both of which the DBX has, but even on its lowest ride height setting and sportiest drive mode, the Aston felt a little disconnected. Comfortable and fast, yes, very daily drivable as well, but none too involving.

That said, expecting this to have driving characteristics on par with something like the DB11 is silly. However, I did want to be able to feel at least a few common threads from the driver’s seat. The DBX really is a different sort of beast from
Aston Martin
, and should be viewed as such.

On a highway cruise, the ride and refinement is excellent, and the V8 settles into a low burble in its top gear (9th), allowing onlookers and fellow motorists to admire. This is its element. Don’t get me wrong, the DBX does handle rather well, but it’s no sports car on stilts.

Point to point, this could be the most accomplished and rewarding of all the contenders in the ‘new breed’ of performance SUVs to drive
in the real world.
 It’s beautiful, fast, practical, luxurious, and most important of all, elegant in a way that only an Aston Martin could be. They even say you could take it off-road, if you’re brave enough to try,
Mr. Bond
.


All-New Aston Martin Vantage - Mercedes-AMG V8, 503hp, 684Nm

If you've ever had trouble telling Aston Martin models apart, you wouldn't be alone. The British supercar company has had a strange habit of making almost all their products look quite nearly identical, apart from more obvious models like the One-77 four-door coupe.
One of the more famous models from Aston Martin is the Vantage, even if you can't immediately identify it- that is, until now. With completely new styling on a new chassis and powered by a new engine, this latest Vantage continues on nearly seven decades of tradition- this time packing a 4.0-litre bi-turbo V8 singing to the tune of 503 hp and 684 Nm.
If "4.0-litre bi-turbo V8" sounds familiar, it's because that's what powers the majority of the Mercedes-AMG range- and now, the Aston Martin Vantage as well. The engine is sourced from AMG, but the tuning is done in-house by Aston Martin, hence the different power figures.
A lot of components for Aston Martin's products are sourced from Mercedes-Benz, including the interior.  While there is some proper high-quality craftsmanship and detailing with the interior build, the keen eyed among you will notice that the switchgear and entertainment system are really familiar. Fortunately, the tech sharing ends there as the Vantage uses a trans-axle 8-speed ZF gearbox and Aston Martin's own electronic differential.
Underneath, the chassis shares a basic aluminium backbone with that of the DB11, although 70% of the elements are unique to the Vantage. Advances in suspension technology and manufacturing have allowed the rear subframe to be solid mounted for better response.
The end result is a car with a dry weight of just 1,530 kg, which is a teeny bit lighter than its predecessor. In any case, it has kept the Vantage competitive within a segment with rapidly shifting goalposts.
However you want to cut it, this new Vantage is distinctly different from the current DB11, which as a more GT-styled design. It's the properly aggressive, sharper model that Aston Martin needs to stay relevant.
For now, the new Vantage is going to be made available in the US, Germany, and UK, with a recommended retail price of 149,995 USD (RM 619,809), 154,000 Euro (RM 747,053), and 120,900 GBP (RM 662,147) respectively. Deliveries will begin in the second quarter of 2018.


Mercedes-AMG C63S Coupe (W205) Launched In Malaysia; Priced From RM774k

The performance flagship of the
Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe
 is here. The
Mercedes-AMG C63S Coupe
 is now officially launched in Malaysia, joining its
sedan counterpart
 as part of the larger Mercedes-Benz Dream Cars Collection.
Pricing starts at RM773,888 on-the-road without insurance for the ‘base’ C63S Coupe, but early takers can top up an additional RM22,000 for Edition 1 variants, which are being offered for a limited but indeterminate period.
As seen in the C63S sedan, the C63S Coupe is powered by Mercedes-AMG’s 4.0-litre twin turbo V8 rated with outputs of 510hp and 700Nm. Based on the M178 unit featured in the
Mercedes-AMG GT
, the M177 powerplant features hot-inside-V configuration with its two turbochargers nestled in between the cylinder banks.
The engine mates with AMG’s Speedshift 7-speed multi-clutch transmission to send power astern. Mercedes-Benz claims a century sprint time of 3.9 seconds and a derestricted top speed of 290 km/h when specified with the AMG Driver’s Package. The C63S sedan, in comparison, is a tenth of a second slower to 100km/h but maxes out at the same top speed.
Suspension kinematics of the C63S are unique to the model, meaning it does not feature components that can be installed on a plug-and-play basis into a regular C200. The rear axle, in particular, is newly-developed from ground up, featuring 12 links in total and its wheels spaced 25mm wider than the C63S sedan.
For further enhanced handling, the C63S Coupe also features an electronic limited-slip differential that serves to reduce slip of the rear inner wheel when cornering. It uses a multi-disc clutch with two compression rings to ensure that torque is always routed to the wheel with better traction.
Standard equipment featured in the C63S Coupe are as follows:
AMG Driver’s Package
AMG Exterior Carbon Fibre Package
AMG Night Package
High performance composite brakes
Autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian recognition
Distronic Plus – active cruise control with steering assist and queuing assist.
Blind spot warning
Lane keeping assist
Rear cross-traffic alert
Keyless entry
19-inch alloy wheels
LED headlights
Panoramic sunroof
Nappa leather upholstery
AMG Carbon Fibre dash inserts
360-degree camera
Burmester surround sound
Upgraders that opt for the Edition 1 model additionally receive the following:
19-inch front, 20-inch rear staggered-size alloy wheels
Matt carbon fibre dashboard trim
AMG performance steering wheel with Nappa leather
Yellow contrast stitching on seats, door panels, armrest, and steering wheel.
Externally, Edition 1 units can be identified by a distinctive graphite grey matte stripes along its body. Those with even more cash to splash can opt to have their vehicles finished design magno selenite grey matte paint with yellow contrast stripes. Price of this upgrade is upon application.


New Prices Of Proton Models, Without GST

In line with the Government’s move to zero-rate the Goods and Services Tax (GST) effective 1st June 2018, Proton has provided the new prices of their models.
Proton has earlier informed that customers who registered their cars between 16th to 31st of May are able to
enjoy the savings, either through instant cash rebate or service vouchers.

The savings of each model are listed in the table below:


Frankfurt 2017: Ferrari Portofino To Debut – V8 Turbo, 591 bhp

Ferrari’s latest drop-top V8 GT, the Portofino, is all set to make its world debut at the upcoming Frankfurt International Motor Show in September. The moniker Portofino, pays homage to the picturesque coastal city on the Italian Riviera, the red highlight colour of the car is also named after the town, dubbed Rosso Portofino.
The Ferrari Portofino will replace
California T
, as the ‘entry-level’ Ferrari and is both lighter and faster than the model it replaces.
Power comes courtesy of the same turbocharged, 3.9-litre ‘flat-plane’ V8 which now produces 591 bhp at 7,000rpm, an increase of 39 bhp over the California T, and 760Nm (up 5Nm) between 3,000 – 5,250rpm. The increase in power comes courtesy of new pistons and con-rods, a new intake system design and improvements to the exhaust system.
Power is sent to the rear wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. The Portofino also gets the third-generation electronic rear differential (E-Diff) which has been integrated with the F1-Trac (vehicle stability) system which enhances mechanical grip and improves on-the-limit handling. The Ferrari Portofino is also the first GT to be fitted with EPS (Electric Power Steering).
Performance wise, the Portofino is good for a 3.5 second 0-100km/h dash, up to a top speed of 320km/h.
Special attention has been paid to the aerodynamics of the Portofino’s two-box fastback design. The outside edge of the headlight hides an innovative air intake which vents through the front wheel arch and exits along the flank to reduce drag.
Round the back – the tail lights are further apart now, which conceals the rear volume housing the all-new Retractable Hard Top (RHT). The RHT itself features a more lightweight design and can be raised or lowered at low speeds.
The Portofino also receives a new infotainment system, centered on a 10.2-inch touchscreen display. A new air-conditioning system also improves occupant comfort both with the top up or down.
Aside, there’s also a newly designed steering wheel, 18-way electrically adjustable seats with a new backrest design that boosts legroom for rear seat passengers, and a revised passenger display. There’s also a new wind deflector which, when the top is dropped, cuts air flow inside the cabin by 30%.


Porsche 360 Financing Launched. Resale Value Assured

Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP), the authorised distributor of Porsche vehicles in Malaysia today announced the introduction of the Porsche 360 Financing programme, in conjunction with
the unveiling of the 2018 911 GT3
.
According to SDAP, the Porsche 360 Financing programme is an alternative to conventional financing, offering lower monthly payments and flexible terms for better cash flow management.
How it works is that customers will have to choose their preferred financing period of three, four or five years for their new Porsche, which subsequently establishes the assured resale value of the vehicle based on the model and specifications.
At the end of the financing term, the owners will have three options:
Trade in the vehicle at authorised Porsche Pre-Owned Centres at the assured resale value and use the balance payment as a down payment for a new vehicle.
Extend the financing programme or terminate it (after third year) by settling the outstanding amount in full.
Return their Porsche without any additional commitments
However, in order to uphold the assured resale value, Porsche owners are required to service and maintain their vehicle at one of the three Authorised Porsche Service Centres in Kuala Lumpur or Penang.
Speaking of maintenance, all Porsche vehicles sold by SDAP come with a four-year warranty and four-year complimentary maintenance package which includes service, parts and also labour, which can be extended up to nine years at an additional cost.
The company also added that the Porsche 360 Financing Programme is not applicable to ‘GT’ and special edition models.


Mercedes-Benz Malaysia unveils 2016 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Facelift - Priced from RM195,888

The facelifted
W176 Mercedes-Benz A-Class
 finally made its Malaysian debut earlier today at the brand’s showroom in Jalan Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur.
First introduced in 2013, the car receives a series of updates revolving around the exterior, interior, as well as the features. Previously available in three trim levels, the big news about the updated A-Class is the introduction of a new variant – the A 180, which will be the new entry level A-Class.
That being said, the A-Class range now comprises:
A 180 – RM195,888
A 200 AMG Line – RM205,888
A 250 Sport – RM238,888
A 45 AMG – RM348,888
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia also announced that another variant – the limited Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula 1 themed ‘Motorsport Edition’ is set to make its debut later this year. For those who have been wondering if the A220d will be making its way here, it will not.
While exterior updates include new LED headlights and tail lamps, redesigned front and rear bumpers, new mufflers, as well as the diamond grille which is offered as standard, changes in the cabin include new seats, larger 8-inch infotainment display, upgraded material, and new colour options.
Also standard in all variants is the Dynamic Select drive mode selector which replaces the outgoing Agility Select button. The selector allows drivers to choose between four different driving modes - Eco, Comfort, Sport and Individual.
In terms of safety, all variants get seven airbags (A 45 AMG 4MATIC gets eight), an updated Collision Prevention Assist Plus system, Active Parking Assist and a rear-view camera.
Under the hood, the A 180 and the A 200 AMG are powered by the same 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine. However, due to different tuning, the A 180 produces 122hp and 200Nm of torque while the A 200 AMG churns out 156hp and 250Nm of maximum torque.
The A 250 Sport on the other hand, is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged mill which enables the car to deliver 211hp and 350Nm of torque. Last but not least, hiding under the hood of the A 45 AMG 4MATIC is a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine which produces a massive 381hp and 475Nm of torque, which is 21hp more than the pre-facelift model.
While the A 180, A 200 AMG, and the A 250 Sport share the same 7G-DCT dual-clutch automatic transmission, the A 45 AMG’s engine is paired to AMG’s Speedshift DCT 7-speed sports transmission.
In an effort to make things flexible for customers, MBM is offering the Hire Purchase Classic financial package with interest rate from as low as 2.18%. However, the package only applies to the A 180, A 200 AMG, and the A 250 Sport.
Looking for an A-Class? Find one now at
 Carlist.my


All-New Third-Generation Volkswagen Touran Unveiled

The third-generation of the
Volkswagen

Touran
 has been revealed before its debut at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show in March. The all-new MPV adopts a new platform and will slot in below the Sharan.
Now riding on Volkswagen’s modular transverse matrix (MQB) architecture, the Touran has grown in length by 130 mm to 4,527 mm, granting an additional wheelbase of 113 mm, now 2,791 mm. The MPV is also wider by 41 mm at 1,814 mm but just a smidge shorter by 6 mm at 1,628 mm. Even with the additional size, the all-new Touran is 62 kg lighter than the previous model.
The main draw of an MPV is its interior size and the Touran’s can be configured in a variety of ways through the fold-flat seating system. With the vehicle loaded to roof height up to the second seat row, luggage space stands at 1,040 litres (up by 48 litres). This extends up to 1,980 litres with all seats folded flat. Also scattered around the MPV’s interior are 47 storage compartments.
The cabin itself is distinctively Volkswagen with the main changes being the electronic parking brake and infotainment system which can be chosen from five units, featuring AppConnect with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and MirrorLink.
Safety systems include Automatic Post-Collision Braking System as standard, available with adaptive cruise control system and Front Assist with City Emergency Braking, Traffic Jam Assist, Pre-Crash proactive occupant protection, Side Assist with Rear Traffic Alert and Trailer Assist. Rear seats also feature ISOFIX child seat anchors.
Other features in the Touran include an electric tailgate open/close mechanism, activated by a movement of the foot, driving profile selection and LED headlights. For the comfort of passengers, an optional Pure Air three-zone automatic air conditioning system that filters allergens is available.
As for engine options, three petrol (110 PS, 1.2 TSI; 150 PS, 1.4 TSI; 180 PS, 1.8 TSI) and three diesel (110 PS, 1.6 TDI; 150 PS, 2.0 TDI; 190 PS, 2.0 TDI) mills are available with transmission options ranging from a six-speed manual, six-speed DSG, and seven-speed DSG. Stop/start and battery regeneration (brake energy recuperation) systems come as standard on all models.


The Volkswagen Fest Returns For The Third Time This Weekend

The annual Volkswagen Fest returns for the third year running and promises the best deals ownership packages from Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM).
Taking place from (Friday) 30th August till (Sunday) 1st September 2019 at Setia City Convention Centre in Setia Alam, this year’s highlight will be the launch of VPCM’s Certified Pre-Owned vehicle sales service, dubbed “Das Welt Auto” .
Additinally, the highly-anticipated all-new Volkswagen Arteon will also be on display at the event.
Visitors can expect the opportunity to test drive a variety of Volkswagen models, and enjoy rebates and amazing deals on brand-new and pre-owned cars. Amazing deals include the ongoing Merdeka Voucher of RM1,000 rebate for all bookings made at the event and “Starbuys” such as the Passat Comfortline 1.8TSI priced at RM114,888.
This is in addition to the ongoing promotions on the Tiguan and Passat range, which currently offers an extension of the three-year free maintenance up to five-year free maintenance with a low interest rate of 1.88% per annum for new car buyers before 31st December 2019.
Besides great deals, the Volks Auto area gives visitors a chance to learn more about more and test drive Volkswagen models, evaluate their current car and even perform financial checks and loan applications.
Volks Lawn on the other hand will be will be filled with current and classic Volkswagen cars on display, a hot air balloon ride, several Instagram-able art installations and interactive game stations that is sure to be a hit with families.


Carlist.my Innovating With Carlistbid+ and Carlist360

Carlist.my by virtue of being the most prominent automotive marketplace with 65% market penetration with 1,500,000 million monthly visitors introduces the improved Carlistbid+ as well as the consolidation of our consumer end to end services under the Carlist360 umbrella.

Through
Carlistbid+
, private sellers who sell their cars through the platform will be able to obtain a higher valuation for their used vehicles with the introduction of our complimentary three months unlimited mileage warranty plan that will come with each vehicle that is placed for bidding on the platform. Dealers who purchase said vehicles are guaranteed that the car purchased is below 10 years old and under 150,000 kilometres. Inspections for all vehicles are undertaken by qualified Carlistbid inspectors.

This is a win for both the private seller and dealer. For the private seller, this initiative will see them able to obtain a higher selling price whilst dealers can bid and buy cars through Carlistbid+ safe in the knowledge that the vehicle has been inspected and will be under warranty for all coverage items in the next three months upon sale of the vehicle.

According to Foong See Kee, Head of Auction (Carlistbid) “We are excited to be working with an innovative player, Warranty Smart to provide some extra peace of mind for CarlistBid dealers at the time of making their purchase decisions, knowing the vehicle has additional warranty protection”.

Carlist360
 on the other hand is a rebranding exercise of what was formerly known as Carlist Essential Services. We’ve grouped our car loan, balance settlement, insurance and road tax, runner services as well as the Extended Warranty programme into Carlist360, encompassing all the services offered under one umbrella term.

Carlist360 is the product of the active listening we undertook throughout the second half of 2020. The invaluable comments and feedback of our customers helped us build Carlist360 integrating all the relevant services into one easy to subscribe programme.

Through Carlist360, customers will be able to purchase extended warranty packages for their used or reconditioned cars. An additional 6 months or 15,000 kilometres is provided FREE when customers purchase any 1-year Warranty Smart plan via Carlist/CarlistBid. This programme is valid for cars below 10 years and 150,000 kilometres. The warranty inspection can take place at the home of the customer or panel workshop at no additional cost. Private sellers can find out more or schedule an inspection appointment here:
https://www.carlist.my/extended-warranty

According to KY Gan, Managing Director of Carlist.my “The extension of services in Carlistbid+ and Carlist360 further strengthens our position in the market as a consumer-centric business. It is a testament of our commitment to improving the experience of both buyers and sellers by innovating the way Malaysians buy, sell and own cars through Carlist.my”.


Ready To Sell Your Car? Here Are Some Tips To Make It A Buttery Smooth Process

Selling your car
 can seem like a daunting step, especially for those who have not done so before. However, getting the most out of your car sale need not be such a confusing or harrowing experience if you know how to navigate the needs and expectations of the buyer.

In this quick guide, we’ll show you a few steps you can take to make your car more enticing to its new prospective owner by
maximising its perceived value
. It’s essentially putting your car’s best foot forward to make the best possible first impression.

Gather All Documents

This should actually be considered Step 0 as a responsible car owner should have easy access to all pertinent documents relating to the vehicle. The most important is the registration grant, first of all, but this will also relate to any purchase receipts obtained during the original purchase.

This could be from the dealership, bank, JPJ,
PUSPAKOM
, and the like. There will also likely be some extra matters to settle if your car still has an outstanding loan. However, before dealing with that, it’s important to have all the important documents and information in order to plan your sale and present the right information to buyers.

Make Sure Everything Is Working And Running Well

It’s useful to take the perspective of a buyer and experience your car with fresh (and critical eyes). Anything out of the ordinary or mildly worrying could be a red flag – that odd noise coming from the engine bay, the creak coming from the passenger side door.

It’s also a very good idea to
send your car in for a full service
 to ensure that the car is running on a full set of fresh fluids. On a test drive, buyers will be looking out for a smooth engine, poised suspension, fully functioning electronics, and other potential signs of obvious wear such as worn tyres and interior trim.

Get Your Car Detailed

Supposing your car is free from rust and obvious body damage, showing it off in gleaming condition is the surest way to wow buyers, indicating it’s a well-maintained and cared-for example. Whether you have a
Proton Saga
 or a
Toyota Corolla
, this will legitimately boost its market value.

A professional detailer will be able to advise you on how much work needs to be done in terms of polishing in order to restore the car to its showroom level of gloss and vibrancy as neglect and general wear can dull the paintwork.

An interior detail is also recommended to, again, restore its condition as close to factory fresh as possible. Not only that, but a full detailing treatment will also include cleaning and some restorative treatment to the wheels, engine bay, and undercarriage, depending on how much you are willing to pay.

Delete Personal Information

For newer cars, particularly ones with in-built navigation and fancy touchscreen infotainment systems, privacy can become a serious concern as they will invariably accumulate personal information.

From map locations that might display our home or work address (or that of our loved ones), phone numbers, mobile device identifiers, music preferences, and applications, to digital content and subscription details – our cars have become a goldmine to be compromised.

Though the process varies by make and model, every car should have a reset function that will automatically delete these kinds of personal information, so do your research or consult your owner’s manual for the proper procedure.

Want to skip the headache? Sell Your Car With CARSOME

CARSOME
’s mission is to help everyday car buyers and sellers like yourself by taking the headache and guesswork out of your hands, replacing it with ease and transparency from end to end.

To get started, just book an appointment slot for a FREE inspection at any of their nationwide locations. Your car will then be attended to by a skilled member of their inspection staff, who will conduct a 175-point check before presenting you with an offer.

If you are satisfied with the offer, you can sell your car directly to
CARSOME
 or opt for live bidding. Either way,
CARSOME
 takes care of all the paperwork hassle and other busywork so that you don’t have to. Even better, you’ll enjoy fast payment and can even get paid the full agreed value for your car in as little as 1 hour!