Perodua Myvi D20N A.S.A. – What It Can And Cannot Do

The recently-launched
all-new Perodua Myvi
 makes headlines for its impressively competitive levels of equipment which, to recap, comes with LED headlights and keyless entry as standard for all model grades.
But perhaps the biggest stride was made in the area of safety, where all grades get as standard a minimum of four airbags, ABS, EBD, electronic stability control, ISOFIX mounts, and seatbelt reminder for all passengers.
Further up the range, comes hill start assist from the 1.3 X models upwards, whilst both 1.5-litre grades get a total of six airbags.
The headline-grabber is, of course, none other than the
Advanced Safety Assist (A.S.A.) system
, which brings autonomous emergency braking into its price range for the first time. The next cheapest car to get this feature in our market will be the
Hyundai Ioniq
 which costs double the money.
Once the exclusive purview of luxury vehicles, active collision avoidance systems like A.S.A. are fast gaining importance in the industry. Certain developed markets have even mandated their fitment in new cars, whilst the European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP) includes performance evaluation of these systems when scoring a new car’s safety rating.
In our region, ASEAN NCAP’s latest test protocol awards points for the fitment of ABS, Electronic stability control (ESC), seat belt reminders, blind spot warning, autonomous emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, and forward collision warning.
Under the Myvi’s A.S.A. umbrella are a suite of four disparate safety systems that include the following:
Pre-collision warning:
Warns drivers of impending collision.
Autonomous emergency braking
: Perodua uses the term pre-collision braking in its official communications. If the driver fails to respond to the pre-collision warning, the car will automatically apply its brakes.
Front departure alert
: Busy texting at the traffic light? Front departure alert will sound a beep when the car in front has moved on and you haven’t.
Pedal misoperation control:
 Suppresses throttle response when driver inadvertently steps on the accelerator pedal while an obstacle is detected in front. Prevents costly and embarrassing damage when you accidentally select ‘D’ instead of ‘R’ when backing out of your car porch.
Whilst the fact that such a feature is at all available in a car at the Myvi’s price range is noteworthy enough, it is just as important that potential buyers fully understand the benefits and limitations of the system.
Being a system designed for budget vehicles, A.S.A. is a comparatively rudimentary system next to more advanced alternatives from the likes of Honda or Ford, let alone the really high-grade stuff used by Volvo or Mercedes-Benz.
Unlike most systems in the market, Perodua’s setup does not incorporate the use of radar, and instead relies on a pair of stereoscopic cameras to judge distance in a manner similar to how our brains estimate distances by comparing the slight differences between what we see with our left and right eyes.
The science of it is grounded on the principles of trigonometry; two offset cameras, each with a direct line of sight to an object, will be looking at an object from slightly different angles. The distance between the pair of cameras and the object can then be obtained by comparing those angles. Subaru’s EyeSight system operates on the same principle.
According to Perodua, A.S.A. is calibrated to recognize a variety of vehicles, but be warned that pedestrian and bicycle recognition is not currently available.
A.S.A. is designed with an attentive driver in mind allowing for occasional lapses of concentration at low speed driving. Additionally, Perodua has clarified that A.S.A. is able to avert collisions only at speeds below 30 km/hand is functional only with the steering pointed straight ahead. The system is also crippled by heavy rain, though this is true for all autonomous driving aids currently available in the market.
Ultimately, it is important to remember that the best driver aid systems is no substitute for safe driving practices. A.S.A. is a very basic driver assistance system, though we should take nothing away from Perodua for bringing this feature into the reach of the masses.
Situations that A.S.A. is likely to prove useful will be in low-speed congested driving where, in the frustration and boredom of it all, lapses of concentration are most likely to happen, resulting in entirely avoidable and unnecessary fender-benders.
The Myvi D20N’s massively-improved safety earns it a well-deserved rating of
five stars from ASEAN NCAP
 evaluated based on the organization's
newly-updated and more stringent test protocol
 implemented only this year.


Porsche Taycan Launched In Malaysia - From RM725K

The flagship variant, the Taycan Turbo S achieves the 0-100 km/h sprint in just 2.8 seconds, similar to its Formula E counterpart, the Porsche 99X.

Twelve months after its world premiere, the Porsche Taycan has finally landed on Malaysian soil and from a starting price of RM 725K, the Malaysian Porsche Taycan is one of the better-priced Taycans in the region.

Thanks to the Malaysian EV (electric vehicle) incentive, the Porsche Taycan is not as expensive as once thought with the Taycan 4S coming in at RM725k, Taycan Turbo at RM999k and the Taycan Turbo S coming in at  RM1.195mil.

Even as a fully electric vehicle, the Taycan is a true sports car with breath-taking acceleration as well as typical sports car traction and handling. It is also among the most powerful production models that Porsche currently has in its product range.

The flagship Taycan Turbo S can generate up to 761 PS, and the Taycan Turbo up to 680 PS while the Taycan 4S can deliver up to 530PS. The Taycan Turbo S generates up to 1,050 Nm of torque and accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 2.8 seconds, while the Taycan Turbo reaches maximum torque of 850 Nm and completes the sprint in 3.2 seconds. As for the Taycan 4S, it reaches the century sprint in 4.0 seconds with a top speed of 250 km/h, but with an optional Performance Battery Plus add on, the 4S can increase its output to 571 PS and increase its electrical range of up to 463 kilometres compared to the 407 km from the standard battery.

The Turbo S has a range of up to 412 kilometres, while the Turbo has a range of up to 450 kilometres, (according to WLTP in each case). The top speed of both all-wheel-drive models is 260 km/h. The Porsche Electric Sport Sound comes as standard, a unique acoustic accompaniment to dynamic driving.

The Taycan is the first production vehicle with a system voltage of 800 volts instead of the usual 400 volts for electric cars. This is a particular advantage for Taycan drivers on the road as it can fully charge in just over 36 minutes, using the available 175 kW direct current (DC) chargers from the high-power charging network for a range of over 400 km across all models.

The overall capacity of the Performance Battery Plus is 93.4 kWh and can conduct higher currents, thus speeding up the charging process significantly. Taycan drivers can comfortably charge their cars with up to eleven kW of alternating current (AC) at home.

Speaking of charging, as part of the ownership experience that Porsche is known for, SDAP will be offering intelligent and holistic charging solutions for Taycan owners, with equipment that includes a 22 kW Porsche Mobile Charger Plus and the Porsche Home Energy Manager.

In order to prepare for an optimal charging experience, a home charge check will be performed to determine if the installation would be viable due to the variables in power availability and dwelling type of the homes of Taycan owners. Information such as the living and parking space situation, existing power connections and Internet availability is collected to check the basic prerequisites for using the Porsche charging equipment at the desired location.

Back to what we really want to know about, Standard on the Turbo S are extremely lightweight Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB), and exquisite carbon materials, used in exterior elements like the door sill guards, sport design sideskirts and rear diffusor in louvered design. These are available options for the Taycan Turbo and Taycan 4S. LED Matrix Headlights including Porsche Dynamic Light System Plus (PDLS Plus) are equipped as standard for the Taycan Turbo S and Taycan Turbo, while the Taycan 4S comes with LED Headlights including Porsche Dynamic Light System Plus (PDLS Plus).

The interior of the Taycan was influenced by the original 1963 Porsche 911, which had a clean styled dashboard. More futuristic than any other Porsche model, the Taycan comes with a freestanding 16.9-inch curved instrument cluster that forms the highest point on the dashboard, while a central, 10.9-inch infotainment display and an optional passenger display are combined to form an integrated glass band in a black-panel look. “Foot garages” – recesses in the battery in the rear footwell – ensure sitting comfort in the rear and allow the low sports car height.

A fast driver-oriented Porsche that is also more environmentally friendly? If only we could afford one...


2018 Mercedes-Benz X-Class Pickup Truck World Debut - Nissan Toughness Mercedes-Benz Luxury

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled one of its most anticipated products this year – the Mercedes-Benz X-Class pickup truck. The X-Class is the first midsize pickup truck from the premium automaker which is claimed to blend the versatility of a pickup truck with the style, comfort and premium equipment levels that Mercedes-Benz is well-known for.
The X-Class is borne out of the Mercedes-Benz Van division’s partnership with the Renault-Nissan Alliance which began seven years ago. With the X-Class, Mercedes-Benz Vans is expanding its portfolio (which includes the Citan, Sprinter and Vito range) to a fourth model series and is closing the gap between commercial vehicles and passenger cars.
The X-Class borrows its underpinnings from the Nissan Navara NP300, which allows Mercedes-Benz a fast and cost-efficient entry to the high-growth segment of midsize pickups. The X-Class will also be produced alongside Nissan pickup trucks for certain markets.
The X-Class will be offered in three trim levels, to suit different customer bases and applications:
X-Class Pure: Basic variant is ideal for rugged, functional use.
X-Class Progressive: Rugged pickup with extra styling and comfort features.
X-Class Power: Lifestyle orientated, the complete suite of design and equipment features.
The X-Class retains a quantum of the styling cues from the concept vehicle. Exterior equipment will depend on the trim level, for instance, the rear bumper is painted black for the Pure line, in the vehicle colour for the Progressive line and in chrome for the Power line. Customers also have the option of deleting the rear bumper to achieve the concept’s sporty look, this also enables the tailgate to swing open 180-degrees.
The X-Class is the only mid-size pickup to be equipped with lighting in the cargo area as standard. The third brake light contains LED lights which can illuminate the whole load bed. A 12-volt socket is also part of the standard equipment in the load bed.
The X-Class measures 5,340mm in length, 1,920mm in width and 1,819mm in height, which makes it longer (5,255mm), wider (1,850mm) and taller (1,810mm) than the Navara it’s based on. The wheelbase of both X-Class and Navara are identical at 3,150mm.
This X-Class' underpinnings consist of a ladder-type frame, rear multi-link solid axle, front independent suspension and coil springs on both axles. The pickup is claimed to haul a payload of up to 1,042kg and tow up to 3.5 tonnes..
Customer will be offered up to nine exterior colours and a variety of rim designs in 17-, 18- or 19-inch sizes to choose from across the three equipment lines.
The X-Class will be offered with a 2.3-litre four-cylinder common-rail turbodiesel with two output levels – the single-turbo X220d with 163hp and twin-turbo X 250d with 190hp. Both diesel models are available as left- or right-hand drive vehicles with rear wheel drive or with selectable all-wheel drive.
Power is transferred via a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed automatic transmission for the X250d and X250d 4Matic models.
A range-topping Mercedes-Benz V6 diesel engine will be released mid-2018 – dubbed the X350d, slated to generate 258hp and a maximum torque of 550 Nm. The X350d will offer as standard, permanent 4Matic all-wheel drive and the 7G-Tronic Plus seven-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel shift paddles and an ECO start/stop function. The Dynamic Select system with offer five drive programs, including an ‘Offroad’ mode.
On the inside, there are six seat covers to choose from across the three trim lines, including two leather variants with contrasting topstitching, and there are two roof liner colour options as well. The dashboard also features concave trim element which stretches across the width of the instrument panel – aimed at creating a wide, modern feel in the cabin. Premium variants will receive Artico man-made leather on the top section of the dash and ventilation outlets with different finishes depending on trim level. The X-Class will be offered with a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel which is height-adjustable.
The X-Class will carry the Comand Online multimedia system with an 8.4-inch central infotainment screen. The screen includes IPS technology (In-Plane Switching) and works in conjunction with a 360-degree Camera and the navigation maps.
As part of the Comand Online system – a multifunction touchpad such as on the passenger cars is located in the centre console and can be controlled using gestures or by entering letters and characters.
The market launch in Europe is scheduled for November 2017. At the beginning of 2018 South Africa, Australia and New Zealand will follow and in 2019 Argentina and Brazil. The X-Class will be produced from Nissan’s plant in Barcelona and Renault’s Cordoba plant in Argentina.
The Mercedes-Benz X-Class will go on sale in Germany starting from EUR37,294, with further market-specific prices to be announced successively.


2015 BMW X5 xDrive40e Review in Munich

The straightforward method of describing a car is to define it with cold hard figures. If that is the case, let these headlining figures of the
2015 BMW X5 xDrive40e
 sink in for a moment. With a combined NEDC fuel consumption figure of 3.3L/100km and 77g/km, this rather grand and rather opulent, petrol-drinking 2,305kg heavy, 1,762mm tall leviathan has a rated fuel consumption and emission figure to match a tiny modern diesel hatchback with a ratty little engine.
Such figures are thanks in no small part to the xDrive40e being a plug-in hybrid, the first such variant for a
BMW
 core model in fact. Armed with an electric battery that is capable of supplying enough charge to propel the
X5
 for a range of up to 31km on electric power alone, it is little wonder the X5 xDrive40e was able to achieve such amazing consumption figures in the standardised driving conditions used for the New European Driving Cycle.
But as we all know, the NEDC is merely a standard for consumers to compare the fuel efficiency of different cars, with little bearing on its actual fuel efficiency in real world conditions where hard acceleration, sustained speeds above 100km/h, and erratic traffic conditions are the norm. To see what the X5 xDrive40e is capable of, we are in Munich to put it through a balanced mix of city roads, highways, and country roads to see if its plug-in hybrid drivetrain does bring a significant difference.
SPECS: 2015 BMW X5 xDrive40e
Engine:
 2-litre, 4-cylinder, turbocharged direct-injection
Transmission:
 8-speed torque converter automatic, four-wheel drive
Max Power:
 245hp @ 5,000-6,000rpm (engine)/ 83kW @ 3,170rpm (electric motor)
Max Torque:
 350Nm @ 1,250-4,800rpm (engine)/ 250Nm @ 0rpm (electric motor)
Total Power Output:
 313hp
All-Electric Range:
 up to 31km
0 to 100km/h:
6.8 seconds
Top speed:
 210km/h (limited), 120km/h in electric
Fuel Consumption:
 3.3L/100km
The SUV with an Electric Heart
Unlike normal series-parallel hybrids such as the
Toyota Prius
 or
Mercedes-Benz E300 BlueTec Hybrid
, which are basically normal cars with a small electric motor wedged in to assist the engine in propulsion, a plug-in hybrid is more of an electric car that happens to have an internal combustion engine to help in driving the wheels when the battery runs out of charge or goes beyond the electric motor’s operating envelope, and recharge the battery along the way.
In the X5 xDrive40e’s case, it has a rather sizable lithium-ion battery packed beneath the luggage compartment, taking up the space that would be used to house the third row of seats. Thus leaving the luggage compartment untouched, though you won’t be able to spec it with the seven seat option. With a charge capacity of 9kWh, the lithium-ion battery has enough juice to power the X5 xDrive40e’s 83kW electric motor for a range of up to 31km.
Though I’m accustomed to driving hybrids and the odd all-electric car, the feeling of having a 2,305kg heavy SUV take off and power its way through the heart of Munich without any signs of activity from the engine is to put, simply surreal. I’d expect the engine to kick in at any moment during my jaunt through the city. But even after covering more than 15km of stop-go traffic, the battery charge indicator showed only two out of its five bars being used.
Even if I give it a fast start from the traffic lights, the X5 picks up speed without hesitation thanks to the motor’s immediate torque, with only a hum to be heard. The engine is ever ready to step in at speeds of 70km/h and above, but this being the eDrive system’s ‘MAX eDrive’ setting, the drivetrain will continue operating in all-electric mode for as long the battery has a sustainable charge and you don’t exceed its limited top speed of 120km/h.
Sure enough, even as the route led me onto the Autobahn, I was expecting the engine to rumble into life at any moment, but as the speedometer climbed past the 100km/h mark, the engine still kept silent. It is weird to see the speedometer climb while the needle of the rev counter has barely twitched since leaving Garching. It was only when we really pushed past 120km/h, that the engine erupted into life, and used good old petrol combustion to surge past 150km/h on the limitless sections of the Autobahn.
Out on the highway the 2-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged engine balanced sending drive to the xDrive four-wheel drive system and recharging the batteries, as shown on the iDrive’s Control Display. Should the driver need the extra burst of torque for the odd overtaking manoeuvre, the hybrid drivetrain is ever ready to divert power from both electric motor and engine to all four-wheels.
It might sound counterintuitive that a fuel efficiency-minded model like the X5 xDrive40e should have four-wheel drive i instead of adopting a lighter and more efficient two-wheel drive setup similar to the X5 sDrive25d, but according to Wolfgang Dieminger, the project leader for the X5 xDrive40e, they wanted to keep the plug-in hybrid version of the X5 as a four-wheel drive model, as a way to establish it as a proper X-model. With the electric motor placed before the transmission and transfer case, the X5 xDrive40e, could in essence, go off-road on all-electric power alone. Not that we were given the opportunity to ascertain its off-road capabilities on the route. And in order to build up the charge for sections of the route that snaked its way through the countryside ahead, I left the eDrive system in ‘SAVE Battery’ mode on the Autobahn to maximise the system’s energy regeneration.
Turning off the Autobahn, the route led us deep into the Bavarian countryside on a nice summer day, with plenty of motorists already out on the road and kicking off their weekend. For such mixed conditions of country roads, which interconnected several small townships, we left the eDrive system in ‘AUTO eDrive’, leaving the on-board electronics to decide on using the electric motor, engine, or both in delivering the desired thrust. And over such varying conditions, the transition between all three methods was seamless. That being said, when traffic did pull to a stop and the engine was busy recharging the batteries, the noise of it idling at 2,000rpm while being stationary feels odd, almost felt as though the throttle got stuck.
Ride and Handling
Though the brief says efficiency, and its description has the ‘hybrid’ word stamped on it, the X5 xDrive40e isn’t found lacking in power or driver engagement. With or without the hybrid bits underneath, this X5 feels pretty much like any other of its conventional engine powered brethren, like a big hot hatch. Its steering is precise and responsive for a huge SUV. This was helped by the steadfast grip summoned from its four-wheel drive system and chassis, which made it especially wieldy even when driven through the narrow country lanes. Though BMW says that the lithium-ion batteries do add around 150kg of ballast right on top of the rear axle, there isn’t any rear heaviness to be felt, or at least not at the speeds I was doing, and not that I would want to find out.
In case you were wondering, the xDrive40e designation was chosen based on the fact that the drivetrain’s total system output of 313hp matches that of the xDrive40d with its 3-litre inline-six diesel engine. And drawing from my prior experience with the xDrive30d, the immense pull from the xDrive40e’s drivetrain from rest makes it feel every bit deserving of that ‘40’ figure. 0 to 100km/h in 6.8 seconds, means that this big SUV can easily keep pace with a MINI Cooper S. And at speed from 120km/h onwards the X5 xDrive40e still pulls with plenty of vigour. Ònly when I was pushing it further beyond 160km/h did the reality of having a big two tonne SUV being powered by a small 2-litre engine start to sink in, with progress in building speed gradually easing off.
Despite all the complexities it packs beneath, the ride hasn’t been the least bit affected. Even if you leave the Dynamic Damper Control in ‘Sport’, and the ride is still nicely well dampened, while its standard fitment self-levelling rear air-suspension does more to deliver a cushioning ride quality instead of merely sharpening up the chassis at the expense of ride quality.
Living the Electrified Life
It wasn’t long till the route led me to the grand BMW Welt building, located right next to the headquarters of the BMW Group in the heart of Munich, and serves as the ultimate showcase of the BMW Group and all its brands and products. There was reason behind choosing such a locale, as its parking lots are already fitted with charging stations where I could plug the X5 xDrive40e in.
Not that Munich had a shortage of charging facilities. With the use of BMW’s ConnectedDrive system, which hooks up to the internet, I could look up for charging stations in my vicinity or in the vicinity of my destination. Furthermore charging stations that are part of the ChargeNow infrastructure can relay information on whether individual charging stations are being occupied, or available to receive my car, so you wouldn’t be in for any unpleasant surprises when you get there. Not that there is any worry since the engine is ever ready to step in and top up the batteries.
In this case, my stop at the BMW Welt was an opportunity to demonstrate the ease of charging up the X5. Simply pull up to a charging station, pop open the flap on the left front fender to access the charging port, use the ChargeNow card that grants users access to any BMW or partner charging stations, and slot the charging plug in. When the batteries are being charged up, the charging port will be highlighted by an illuminated blue ring around it, and the charging plug cannot be removed nor the vehicle started.
Should I need to charge it from a domestic power socket, the X5 xDrive40e comes with the appropriate cable, which is stored under the luggage compartment floor. It is as easy as filling up at a petrol station, may be even easier, but that being said, BMW says the decision to keep the charging port on the left was for convenience as drivers can alight from the X5 and immediately plug it into the mains. Unfortunately they aren’t going to switch that over for right-hand drive markets.
According to BMW’s estimates it takes 3 hours and 50 minutes for the batteries to be fully charged from flat through a conventional domestic power socket, while a high-voltage charging station or one of BMW’s own i Wallbox, with a charging rate of 3.5kW (16A/230V) would get the same job done in 2 hours 45 minutes. What’s more, with the electrical system plugged in, drivers can use the BMW Remote app from the smartphones to retrieve information on the battery’s state of charge, as well as get the air conditioning system to cool the cabin down remotely before you return.
Is it worth it? Or Worth waiting for?
As I pulled into Garching to hand back the X5 xDrive40e’s keys, the trip computer showed a decent fuel consumption figure of 8.5L/100km. It might seem quite far off from the NEDC rated fuel consumption figure, but considering that this figure was the end result of a mix of city driving with stop-go traffic, high speeds on the Autobahn, and varying speeds on country roads, 8.5L/100km is actually a pretty good.
My previous experience with an X5 xDrive30d in Australia, driving through Australian speed limits that saw the speedometer rarely peek above 100km/h, far slower and gentler on the throttle than what I was doing here in Germany, only managed to yield 9L/100km. Whereas the lighter and smaller X4 xDrive28i with the same 2-litre engine in its 245hp state of tune returned a figure closer to 12L/100km. By BMW’s own estimates and assuming you started your journey with a full charge in the battery, a commute of between 50 and 60km can be completed in practice with a fuel consumption of not more than 6.5L/100km, but once again, depending on driving style.
But is that fuel efficiency gains enough to justify the X5 xDrive40e? After all in Germany the plug-in hybrid variant retails with a price tag that is 12% higher than that of the xDrive35i or xDrive30d, which is understandable considering the amount of technology and batteries crammed beneath. It is a brilliant and well-executed niche product, which will definitely win over the hearts and minds who appreciates the brilliance and complexity of the technology inside. This isn't just another hybrid with a bigger battery, but represents the next step in the evolution of automobile powertrains. It is the ultimate embodiment of BMW’s capabilities of bringing all that talk of sustainable technologies that they have learnt from the i3 and i8, and implement it into the rest of their model range through their EfficientDynamics strategy.
For the traditional SUV buyer however, its four-cylinder engine might not boast the smoothness and refinement of BMW's legendary inline-six units, nor does it return a huge difference in its real world fuel efficiency figures. But the instantaneous torque from its electric motors, the silence of its all-electric propulsion, and the seamlessness of its transition from engine to electric motor, might make you a fan of this new and emerging generation of powertrains.
That being all said, will we see the X5 xDrive40e coming into Malaysia soon? Though BMW Group Malaysia hopes to bring it in, they have yet to form any firm plans to do so as of press time. Considering how the great majority of Malaysian consumers are more price-sensitive, rather than being technology-savvy, and the possible absence of any CKD hybrid-tax incentives from 2016, such an impressive piece of automotive brilliance might not find a market here or make it to our shores.


2021 All-New Isuzu D-Max Launched – 7 Variants, New 3.0L X-Terrain Flagship

After much anticipation, Isuzu Malaysia has introduced the third-generation (RG01) Isuzu D-Max pickup truck for the Malaysian market. The latest generation, which replaces the (RT85)
launched here in 2019
, crucially takes a big leap forwards into the lifestyle pickup truck market with a bold new design, and improved equipment and features across the range.

The Isuzu D-Max range is offered in 7 variants across two body styles and drivetrain packages, priced as follows:

1.9L Single-Cab (MT): RM88,599

3.0L Single-Cab (MT): RM95,538

1.9L Double-Cab Standard (MT): RM99,599

1.9L Double-Cab Standard (AT): RM106,999

1.9L Double-Cab Premium (AT): RM121,549

3.0L Double-Cab Premium (AT): RM128,038

3.0L Double-Cab X-Terrain (AT): RM141,938

All recommended prices are OTR without insurance, Individual Private registration.

Two powertrains are on offer – the
(RZ4E) 1.9L DDi Bluepower
 which develops 150PS at 3,600 rpm, and 350 Nm of torque between 1,800 rpm and 2,600 rpm. The range-topping 3.0-litre now gets the heavily updated 4JJ3-TCX four-cylinder turbodiesel (which was not available with the RT85) – that outputs 190PS (+13PS from the 4JJ1) and 450Nm (+70Nm) between 1,600rpm and 2,600rpm.

The new 4JJ3-TCX benefits (over its predecessor, the 4JJ1) from a new commonrail injection system, electronically controlled VGS turbocharger and a new piston and combustion chamber design to offer improved performance and efficiency and greater flexibility in its powerband. All engines are mated to either a six-speed automatic or manual transmission depending on variant. All variants are offered with the 4x4 drivetrain, the Isuzu D-Max does not get a 4x2 drivetrain option this time around.

In terms of dimensions, the new D-Max measures 5,265mm in length, 1,870mm in width, and 1,810mm in height and has a wheelbase of 3,125mm. The new D-Max is marginally shorter (by 30mm) though wider (10mm) and taller (15mm) than its predecessor. The wheelbase has also notably grown by 30mm. Another crucial feature of the new model is its 800mm water wading depth, bringing the D-Max on par
with its major rivals
.

For brevity we will cover the major equipment highlights of the double-cab variants only:

Isuzu D-Max 1.9L Double-Cab Standard (MT): RM99,599

1.9-litre DDi BluePower (150PS/350Nm)

6-speed manual transmission

Halogen headlights, bulb-type DRL with Follow-Me-Home function

Front fog lamps

Bulb-type rear combination lights

17-inch wheels, 255/65/R17 tyre setup

2-Din headunit with USB, Bluetooth

6-speaker

4.2 TFT LCD colour MID display

e-Lumax meter panel

Urethane steering wheel with audio and MID controls

Fabric seats

Manual climate control

2-airbags

Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

Traction control

Hill Start Assist (HSA)

Hill Descent Control (HDC)

Brake override

Seat belt reminder – all seats

Reverse sensor

Side steps

Bedliner

Isuzu D-Max 1.9L Double-Cab Standard (AT): RM106,999

6-speed automatic transmission

Bi-LED projector headlights with LED DRL

Power adjusted side mirror with LED turn indicator

Isuzu D-Max 1.9L Double-Cab Premium (AT): RM121,549

Front and rear LED foglamps

LED rear combination lights

Automatic wipers

Roof rails

Passive cruise control

Keyless entry and start

Welcome light

Auto-dimming rear mirror

7-inch touchscreen infotainment headunit with Bluetooth, USB, Apple Carplay and Android Auto and Miracast

8-speaker

Dual-Zone automatic climate control

Rear AC vents

Leather steering wheel and gearknob

Black combination leather seats

Reverse camera

Blind Spot Monitor (BSM)

Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)

Tailgate assist

Isuzu D-Max 3.0L Double-Cab Premium (AT): RM128,038

3.0-litre BluePower turbodiesel engine (190PS/450Nm)

Isuzu D-Max 3.0L Double-Cab X-Terrain (AT): RM141,938

‘X-Terrain’ body highlights and overfenders

Auto headlamp levelling

Infrared-cut front windshield

Remote engine start

Brown combination leather interior

8-way power adjusted driver’s seat

7-airbags

Forward Collision Warning (FCW)

Autonomous emergency braking

Turn Assist

Pedal Misapplication Mitigation

Adaptive Cruise Control

Automatic High Beam (AHB)

Lane Departure Warning (LDW)

Sliding cargo tray

The D-Max X-Terrain is offered exclusively in either Valencia Orange or Sapphire Blue. Those two colours, along with three others – Mercury Silver, Onyx Black and Silky Pearl White are also offered depending on variant.

All variants of the Isuzu D-Max are offered with a 5-year/150,000km manufacturer package, the X-Terrain flagship, however, is offered with a 7-year unlimited mileage warranty.

Though the official prices and variant lists have been announced today, showroom units for viewing and test drives will only be made available starting 26th April 2021.

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More Teasers Of The 2022 Subaru BRZ Ahead Of Debut

We all have high hopes for the upcoming second-generation Subaru BRZ, but Subaru has gone ahead and teased us with more photos.

Hoping for a turbocharged motor in the next-generation
Subaru BRZ
? You're probably not going to get it, but Subaru has unveiled a couple of uncamouflaged snippets of the up and coming sports coupe - at least, the minor details. The launch is slated to be on the 18th of November, or just over a week from now, and there's no doubt that people will be paying attention to one of the most important coupes to be launched in a few years now.

There are many
reasons to love
 the Subaru BRZ, even the one that we've known for years. Its relatively lightweight, approachable and progressive handling characteristics and adequate performance make it a great all-rounder of a vehicle, for those who want to enjoy spirited driving and the occasional drifting, but also need something that can function reliably as an every day machine.

With these cars you don't expect a drastic change in platform design and functionality - most low-volume cars reuse the chassis across two generations to maximize the usability and ammortize costs. What we do hope for is a larger, more potent 2.4-litre boxer engine at the very least to provide the BRZ with a little more grunt and make it a little easier to get the car sideways.

It's also not known how much of a blank canvas these new cars will be: the first generation BRZ, as well as its Toyota 86 counterpart, was geared towards a highly creative enthusiast market that was not likely to leave their cars well alone. The tuning industry's renaissance and revival is owed partly to this humble Japanese coupe as demand for performance components and aesthetic components shot up massively, with such a large variety of end results.


The Mitsubishi Triton Fights Its Own Battles In This Commercial

It may not be immediately obvious to those watching, but this sleek red Mitsubishi Triton is threading its way through history and fending off some truly fearsome adversaries. It starts off dodging flaming projectiles lobbed from trebuchets straight out of the middle ages, avoids an array of arrows from a South American tribe, evades a pair of Russian tanks from World War II, and eventually is pursued by a group of Mad Max-esque characters.

While the name is a little misleading (Watermopylaegrad is supposed to be an odd portmanteau of Waterloo, Thermopylae, and Stalingrad), it still showcases the Triton's agility in stressful (albeit fictional) situations. Having driven the Triton
ourselves
, we can attest to its handling ability and nimbleness as being particular strong points for the vehicle. Historically, Mitsubishi has been quick to
adapt the Triton
 to match the changing requirements of modern pickup truck owners, and this Triton stays true to that principle.


Sime Darby EV Charger Network Every 200km To 300km Along The Highway

Sime Darby Motors Malaysia
 is well on its way to creating a 'seamless'
charging and ownership experience
 for EV owners located every 200km to 300km along the highways.

As part of its
EV adoption plans
, Sime Darby Motors has identified prime locations for its EV charging network. These charging stations will be located at every 200km to 300km mark along the highways of Peninsular Malaysia as well as near high-density areas.

Auto Bavaria taking the lead

BMW's largest and longest-serving dealer network, Auto Bavaria, is leading the charge (literally) with a total of 33 charging facilities (both AC and DC) across the Klang Valley, Penang, and Johor.

Apart from catering to customers of the brands under Sime Darby Motors, they've also announced that its charging network is now available for booking via the Go To-U app, a wholly-owned subsidiary of
Tenaga Nasional Berhad
, TNBX Sdn Bhd.

Bookings for charging slots as well as other added services are available for all, including members of the public and non-Sime Darby Motors EV owners. For EV customers of Sime Darby Motors, they'll receive a 10-year waiver for the Go To-U app membership fees worth RM2,400 as well as special DC charging rates, and of course, free AC charging.

Promise of enriched EV experience

According to Sime Darby Motors Malaysia Retail & Distribution Managing Director, Jeffrey Gan, "Sime Darby Motors remains focused on our energy-efficient drive as a leading automotive player in Malaysia. We are on track with our plans to populate our roads and highways with EV charging stations to help accelerate the adoption of EVs."

"We are also pleased to offer a uniquely Sime Darby Motors’ customer experience for Sime Darby Motors EV owners, which promises an enriching EV experience across all Sime Darby Motors brands. This will be a game changer for our EV customers and for us as well, with data analytics that will be made available. We are excited to bring innovative automotive experiences to our customers as we play our part in furthering the country’s aspirations for a low carbon mobility future," added Jeffrey Gan.


Review: BMW X5 xDrive40e Plug-in Hybrid – Joy Is Reclaiming Your Tax Money

So, if you are someone who is drawing RM30,000 per month, you would know that you are already paying close to RM80,000 in taxes each year. Factor in generous performance bonuses, you are looking at an annual contribution that equals to a full-specs Honda City each year to our beloved Malaysian Official 1’s investments.
While there is little doubt that your contributions will be carefully accounted for and will contribute to the betterment of our nation, our National Automotive Policy has special clauses that allow for tax deductions on certain locally-assembled vehicles that meets the so-called Energy Efficient Vehicles (EEV) requirements.
One of the biggest beneficiary of EEV incentives is this heavily tax deducted RM388,800 BMW X5 xDrive40e that you see here. Yes, the name is quite a mouthful and to keep things simple, we will simply call it the X5 40e, with the ‘e’ suffix designating this as a plug-in hybrid model.
Overview
The X5 is not exactly a new model. It was launched in Malaysia in 2014, priced at RM598,800 for the 5+2 seater xDrive35i 3.0-litre turbocharged petrol model.
This particular 40e variant was only added last year and is not only more powerful, has better features, but is also over RM210,000 cheaper than the X5 35i model! Only in Malaysia can such thing happen. Elsewhere, the X5 40e is the most expensive non-M X5. Who says car prices are not getting cheaper?
What better way to reclaim (well sort off…) your RM210,000 in taxes paid than by buying an X5 that would otherwise have costed you at lot more money.
The regular X5 xDrive35i is still on-sale, at a slightly reduced RM573,800 price but it’s difficult to see why would anyone want to pay more for that. Apart from the plug-in hybrid powertrain, the main difference between the X5 40e and its 35i sibling is that the latter retains its third row seats.
To accommodate the high voltage battery under the boot floor, the X5 40e seating capacity is reduced to just five.
The X5’s closest competitor, due to its pricing more than any other factor, is the overachieving RM403,888 Volvo XC90 T8. Like the X5 40e, the XC90 T8 is also a plug-in hybrid. The difference however is that the Volvo is a proper, full-size seven-seater that fits seven adults.
Specifications for 2017 BMW X5 xDrive40e
Engine: 2.0-litre Twin Power Turbo (single twin scroll turbine) with Double Vanos, 4-cylinder, longitudinal
Motor: Synchronous, integrated within transmission
Hi-Voltage battery: Lithium-ion, 9.2 kWh (gross), 6.8 kWh (net)
Transmission: 8-speed automatic, all-wheel drive
Power (engine only): 245 hp between 5,000 – 6,500 rpm
Torque (engine only): 350 Nm between 1,250 – 4,800 rpm
Power (motor only): 83 kW/113 hp at 3,170 rpm
Torque (motor only): 250 Nm at 0 rpm
Combined power: 313 hp
Combined torque: 450 Nm
Claimed fuel consumption: 3.3-litre/100 km (EU combined cycle)
Claimed electric driving range: Up to 31 km
Safety: 6-airbags, Anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Brake Assist (BA), electronic traction control, electronic stability control, 360 degree camera, lane departure warning, autonomous emergency braking
Origin: Locally-assembled in Kulim, Kedah
Price: RM388,800 excluding insurance
Exterior
Compared to the earlier 35i and 30d variants, this new 40e variant cuts a shaper and leaner look thanks to the added aesthetics upgrades.
The combination of BMW Individual Exterior Line Aluminum line and M Sport aerodynamic package has dramatically liven up the X5’s otherwise familiar but staid looks. Together with the 19-inch M double spoke wheels, the X5 40e is every bit a business athlete.
Our test car came fitted with an optional Thule roof rack but the added utility also resulted a compromise in cabin quietness, as whistling noise was heard permeating through the cabin from the panoramic glass roof.
Interior
Inside, the X5’s interior is like all BMWs, still the benchmark in ergonomics and user-friendly infotainment interface. Learning curve for the iDrive and other controls is short. On the downside, like all BMWs, the interior trimmings are still one grade below an equivalent Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, or even the RM403,888 Volvo XC90 T8 - still its closest competitor by price. No amount of M Sport trimmings can match the swag of the XC90's Orrefors illuminated crystal gear knob, high-grade Walnut wood veneers and Nappa leather.
The X5's driver’s seat also adjusts for just six-way rather than the Volvo’s eight.
Other highlights include a high resolution, full-colour Head-Up Display and 16-speaker Harman Kardon infotainment system with 10.25-inch display screen, and a pretty funky customizable colours LED ambient lights.
Driving Experience
Compared to a similarly priced 5 Series, or even a relatively high riding 3 Series GT or X6, the X5 is a tad off the mark when it comes to delivering BMW’s signature ultimate driving experience.
The steering is surprisingly uncommunicative by BMW standards while the ride is quite jittery, more on that later.
So the X5 40e isn’t as enjoyable to drive as we had initially expected, but that’s also partly because I am jumping into the X5 from a 5 Series. Between the X5 and the XC90 T8, the diffrence in on-road behaviour isn't that big but neither can match the highway composure of the
Audi Q7
, which unfortunately because of its imported from Slovakia status, is priced too far off from its EEV-incentivised peers.
Off the straight highways and onto tight twisty stretches, the X5 40e remains unfazed by rapid sucsession of switchbacks and off camber corners but considering that it has all-wheel drive and wears 285 mm wide tyres behind and 255 mm in front, we are not expecting anything less.
It hustles along well and is surprisingly agile for an SUV. Despite the visual hulk, the X5 doesn’t feel ponderous but you will still be aware of its oversized dimensions when pushing along twisty stretches.
If an engaging drive is what you are looking for, we suggest to look towards the 5 Series instead, or an X6.
Prospective buyers with deep knowledge of BMW engines will also need to justify to themselves to pay more for an older generation N20 series engine in the X5 40e when the cheaper 330e is already using the newer B48 series engine.
Although X5 40e, 740Le and 330e all have a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol-electric hybrid engine under the hood, the X5’s lump is older. However this detail is purely academic because as far as straight line performance is concerned, the X5 40e has that covered. Sprint from 0-100 km/h is done in 6.8 seconds, thanks to a petrol and electric power combo that delivers a combined output of 313 hp and 450 Nm.
Those technically inclined might be keen to know that the most obvious difference between the X5 40e and XC90 T8's drivetrain is in their respective electric drive motor(s) setup.
The X5 40e uses only one electric drive motor, housed between the crankshaft and the 8-speed transmission. Regenerative braking can only be done from the front axle.
The Volvo XC90 on the other hand, has motors on both axles, allowing it to achieve a higher level of regenerative braking from both axles. However, the XC90 doesn’t have a propeller shaft running the length of the car, unlike the BMW. The Volvo's rear-axle is driven exclusively by electric power alone. In Volvo’s opinion, this is hardly an issue because when the vehicle driven on tarmac surface, it is running in front-wheel drive mode 99 percent of the time.
As for safety and convenience, the X5 40e comes with Lane Departure Warning and City Collision Warning but curiously leaves out blind spot warning, a far more important feature in a car of this size. Rear cross-traffic alert, already available in lower range cars, is also missing.
Fuel economy
Claimed fuel consumption is 3.3-litre/100 km but you can laugh at that. From our real-world 600-plus km experience, 50 percent of it in city driving with sporadic plugged-in charging (where available), we recorded a much more realistic 9.5-litre/100 km.
The optimally efficient way to drive the car is to manually select the eDrive Modes depending on driving conditions. Instead of leaving it in the default Auto eDrive, which will insist on running the car in electric-only mode until the battery charge drops to 5 percent, select Save eDrive whenever traffic is flowing smoothly – conditions where petrol engines are already efficient enough. Doing so allows you to save the battery charge for those low speed, stop-go traffic situations later in your journey, conditions where the electric motor is more efficient.
Simplifying your plugged-in charging is the BMW Connected App, which allows you the check the charging status of your car from your smartphone. It however, can’t locate the nearest charging point, as doing that requires another level of integration between the app’s service provider in Munich with local charging service providers. To locate available charging points, it is best that you use another app called New Motion, as recommended by the Greentech Malaysia, the main service provider for public charging facilities in Malaysia.
A full charge using a dedicated fast charger or BMW's own i Wall Box (about RM8.9k, sold separately) takes about 3 to 4 hours, but you can also charge it via a regular domestic power socket (do not use an extension cord and do verify the condition/safety of the wiring), taking about 7 to 8 hours.
Comfort
The X5’s high sitting position gives you a very commanding view of the road ahead but it also means that whatever little oscillations caused by undulating roads will be amplified before reaching the driver’s seat.
Yaw and pitches that are barely noticeable on a 5 Series can become bothersome in the taller X5.
The dampers are electronically adjustable Dynamic Damper Control units, while the rear axle is cushioned by automatic levelling air suspension but there’s only so much that a fancy suspension can do to avoid the laws of physics.
This is not to say that the ride is rubbish. What we are saying is if you are jumping into this from a 5 Series, or even a 7 Series, you will need to manage your expectations.
The boot packs 500 litres of cargo but fold the rear seats down and it will expand to fit 1,720 litres.
The split tailgate is a practical feature as it reduces the length of the tailgate, thus allowing for easier opening in tight parking spots.
Conclusion
While it’s not our favourite BMW, or even our favourite BMW SUV (OK BMW….SAV, and our favourite is still the X6), there is no denying that the X5 40e is an incredibly enticing value proposition. Where else in the world can you buy an X5 40e at a lower price than an X5 35i, or even a 530i?
In this segment, the decision is very simple. If you are looking for an SUV and you don’t want to consider a sedan like a 5 Series, and have a genuine need for a 7-seater, then pay a little bit more to buy the XC90 T8. Else, buy this X5 40e.
Alternatives like the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class (RM568,888 for GLE 400) and Audi Q7 (RM524,900) are imported and thus are priced too high to be considered in the same breath as the X5 40e. These are cars that one buys out of brand preferences rather than careful deliberation.


This Vacuum Brake System Uses Suction To Slow Your Car Down

The conventional braking system on cars has been around for some time now. Typically, brake callipers clamp onto a rotating disc and slow the car down and that’s that.
Well, for Swedish-based company Autoliv who manufactures safety technologies for cars, they’ve invented the Torricelli brake which believe it or not, uses a gigantic vacuum to suck you onto the road to slow you down just that little bit quicker.
The system shares its name with the inventor of the barometer and ties into the automatic braking system found in most cars today. When activated, the Torricelli brake generates a suction power of 1,360 kg, forcing the
Mercedes-Benz

E-Class
 to come to a complete stop.
Autoliv say that the unique braking system can decrease braking distances by up to 40% at speeds of around 65 km/h which when applied to a city driving scenario, would certainly be more than sufficient to assist those who fail to brake in time to avoid another car or pedestrian, leaving the autonomous braking system to kick into action.
The prototype seen here isn’t devoid of issues though. Firstly, no car manufacturer’s safety system is built to handle the immense power of the vacuum-braking system (bodily pain is a concern here). Secondly, what would happen if it was activated on uneven or roads littered with small stones. Thirdly, look at the size of the thing! Retrofitting is certainly a huge undertaking as you’d might expect.
However, giving credit where credit is due, the Torricelli vacuum-brake system is certainly impressive and a very unlikely way one might imagine of stopping a car.


Tokyo 2017: Toyota Fine-Comfort Ride Concept – FCV, 1,000km Range

Toyota has unveiled the ‘Fine-Comfort Ride’ (FCR), a concept previewing the company’s future developments of fuel-cell vehicles slated to make a first public appearance at the upcoming 2017 Tokyo Motor Show from 25 October to 5 November.
Underpinned by a flexible architecture designed from the onset for electric vehicles, the FCR is driven by in-wheel motors; this in-turn enables the wheels to be pushed right to the corners of the car, thereby maximising its wheelbase.
Despite measuring 20mm shorter in length than a
Camry
 at 4,830mm, the FCR’s 3,450mm wheelbase is 285mm longer than that of a
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
. It spans 1,950mm across its bow, making it wider than a
Toyota Hilux
, and stands 1,650mm tall, thereabouts of a
Honda CR-V
. Compared to an
Alphard
, the FCR is 100mm wider but 85mm shorter in length.
Toyota’s existing fuel-cell model, the
Mirai
, is longer at 4,890mm, but significantly narrower (1,815mm) and sits lower (1,535mm) than the FCR.
With nearly three-and-a-half metres of real estate between the wheels, the FCR’s cabin is diamond shaped, being wider at the front and narrowing to the rear. Toyota claims that this helps maximise space for the second row seats and at the same time provide better aerodynamics.
Yes, you read correctly, the FCR has three rows of seats with seating capacity for six occupants. The first two rows of seats are individual; first row seats can swivel 180 degrees, whilst the second row has Ottoman and recline function; third row is a bench.
Entry is via a pair of conventional front-hinged doors to the front and sliding doors to the rear with no B-pillars separating them. Despite Toyota's repeated assertion of this being a 'premium saloon', the vehicle appears to embody the functional characteristics of an MPV.
The FCR can be replenished with a full tank of hydrogen in about three minutes and is able to provide an estimated cruising range of 1,000km tested in the JC08 cycle. Being a fuel cell vehicle, the FCR emits no carbon dioxide or other pollutants on the move.


Mazda MX-5 Crowned 2016 World Car of the Year

The Mazda MX-5 has been named 2016 World Car of the Year, fending off challenges from the latest Audi A4 as well as the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class to secure one of the most prestigious awards in the automotive industry. In winning the award, the MX-5 becomes the second Mazda model after the previous-generation Mazda2 to receive the accolade, back in 2008.
In addition to the main prize, the MX-5 was also recognized for its superior aesthetic value over the field in taking home the World Car Design of the Year as well, edging ahead of the
Jaguar XE
 as well as Mazda’s own CX-3.
Carlist.my
 recently had the opportunity to
review the MX-5
, and this is what we had to say about the car:
The MX-5 is one of those cars that every petrolhead must experience at least once in their life. It might not be the car for you, but the experience will tell you what you are missing out from other more powerful cars.
Other categories of the awards finished as follows:
World Luxury Car:
Winner – BMW 7 Series. Finalists –
Audi Q7
, Volvo XC90
World Performance Car:
Winner –
Audi R8
. Finalists –
Honda Civic Type R
, Mercedes-AMG C 63 Coupe
World Green Car:
Winner –
Toyota Mirai
. Finalists –
Toyota Prius
, Chevrolet Volt
From the pool of winners and finalists, the
Carlist.my
team has to date also reviewed the Audi A4, BMW 7 Series, Mazda CX-3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, and Volvo XC90, and the following are our conclusions:
Audi A4 (
Full Review
)
I’m very sure for those who used to love Audis just because they were left-field, and got attracted to them just because Audi wasn't the obvious or predictable choice, (me for example) would’ve headed elsewhere in search of esoteric choices. Maybe the new Alfa Romeo Giulia, the new
Volvo S90
, or the Jaguar XE might suffice given how popular Audis are now - or put simply mainstream.
In my opinion, Audi shouldn't miss them one bit, because apart from being a challenger to the segment leader, the new
Audi A4
, short of focusing on having key features such as the
Lexus IS
’s funky speedo, or the
Q50’s
 detached power steering as major marketing punchlines, the A4 retains what made it good, and focuses on making it great. And through this, earned what is now rightfully its place as the segment’s benchmark, poised to take over the spot from the
BMW 3 Series
 proudly, unequivocally.
BMW 7 Series (
Full Review
)
As strange as it sounds, with BMW’s focus on making a limousine that is actually pretty good to drive the
7 Series
 comes across as the most well-rounded limousines around today. As much as you can imagine yourself indulging in its rear seat appointments, the 7 Series is the sort of limousine you can almost see yourself being perched up at the helm and actually enjoying yourself just as much.
And not to mention this 7 Series is one of the most beautiful limousines around with a body that looks more sculpted rather than drawn. The 7 Series cuts an authoritative profile with a commanding presence that befits an automobile of distinction. This is perhaps the most beautiful 7 Series since the 1990s E38 of James Bond and Transporter fame, which makes it even appropriate to be seen stepping out of the driver’s perch, rather than hiding away in the back. The 740Li is temptress that is enough to make you keep that swank display key to yourself, instead of passing it onto a chauffeur.
Mazda CX-3 (
Full Review
)
Far from being an alternative to the leading crossovers in the market, the
CX-3
 should be seen as the Mazda that
Mazda 2
 owners should buy if they can afford one – because it has everything we liked (and didn’t like) about the 2, but with better looks and more power. People who buy Mazda 2 don’t really care about interior space or utility functions, but the rest of the car buying public do.
In short, the CX-3 is not for everybody, but in the eyes of Mazda’s intended audience – the Zoom-Zoom drivers crowd - the little CX-3 stands tall with pride.
Mercedes-Benz GLC (
Full Review
)
Mercedes-Benz could’ve been late to arrive in the premium compact SUV segment that is currently being conquered by the
BMW X3
 and the
Audi Q5,
 but it definitely has all the right ingredients to give its competitors a good run for their money. It might not be the cheapest option here but it is the freshest.
Volvo XC90 (
Full Review
)
The
XC90
 has transformed quite a bit from what it was. Regardless of whether it is the design, the technology, the looks, or the performance, the crossover impresses.
Yes, it still has its shortcomings, like how the third row of seats have to be manually folded while its rivals have buttons to complete the same task, but it also outperforms its competition in many important areas such as fuel consumption, safety, and the standard equipment offered.


2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W223) - Mixing Peak Innovation With Peak Luxury

A new Mercedes-Benz S-Class isn’t necessarily a car that makes us wait too long for its arrival - in the case of the W222, it spent a solid 6 years in production before this newest version, called the W223, makes its official grand entrance.

However, with each new S-Class comes a wealth of technological goodies that signal the next wave of mass market feature adoption. There’s an exhaustive list of items we take for granted in our modern cars today that were first pioneered in an S-Class, which is why its maker proclaims it as the "best in the world" (at that time). No pressure, then.

Due to reach international showrooms in early 2021, the W223 S-Class is the automaker at its most cutting edge. The car itself doesn’t look to radically altered from its predecessor, but does a very admirable job of addressing the criticisms surrounding the exterior while adopting clear visual cues from the rest of the Mercedes-Benz range as it stands today.

Starting with the second-generation MRA (modular rear architecture) vehicle platform itself, the W223 ticks all the boxes we’d expect in a generational step, claiming even better refinement and structural rigidity while boasting a substantial weight reduction of 60kg.

Despite those lost pounds, the all-new S-Class is physically larger than the outgoing model, though not by that much. Importantly, there’s 51mm more in between the front and rear axle in the standard wheelbase variant while also being 55mm wider and 12mm taller.

It’s a handsome car, by most accounts, despite its compliance toward the trend of massive front grilles. Against the
BMW 7 Series
 and
Audi A8
, however, it’s a rather close match, and the German trio sure are making it very difficult to choose on curb appeal alone.

That sleek shape has also been extensively tuned to generate as little aerodynamic drag as possible, which now stands at just 0.22 (down from 0.24 on the W222). This, coupled with the efficiency improvements made to the powertrain packages, should make it substantially easier on emissions than before.

For example, in the case of the new S580e, which supplants the S560e, Mercedes-Benz say that its plug-in hybrid system is now capable of being operated in fully electric drive mode for up to 100km according to WLTP testing standards. In addition to the M256 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-6 cylinder petrol engine being confirmed, a twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre V12 is likely to see an official introduction further down the line.

Speaking of which, Mercedes-Benz has also padded out the powertrain troupe with the petrol-powered S450 and S500 in varying states of tune, but utilising the same M256 unit and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system for partial electric assist. Even so, the S500 is still incredibly punchy with a 0-100km/h sprint of just 4.9 seconds. The story is pretty much echoed on the diesel side of things with the OM656 engine - also a turbocharged 3.0-litre - used for the S350d and S400d.

Yes, there are incoming variants with V8 engines that slot in between the straight-sixes and V12s, including the S63e and S73e from AMG that are rumoured to have up to 800hp, but those details are scant at the moment. Sadly, however, Mercedes-Benz have indicated that this W223 will not spawn Coupe and Cabriolet bodystyles, so grab them before everyone realises they're a future classic.

That said, some good news is that the company’s 4Matic all-wheel drive system and AirMatic air suspension (along with E-Active Body Control) is also made more widely included as standard across all variants. The rear-wheel steering system has also seen a significant upgrade, increasing its maximum turn angle from 4.5 degrees to 10 degrees, improving the car’s turning circle to a very compact 10.9 metres at the expense of looking like a forklift.

The W223 S-Class seems to be a statement on how computing power is starting to encroach on automotive territory. The car’s onboard computers control every in-car function, as you'd expect, but is now much less hidden in its operation with so much of the car’s analogue controls and readouts being replaced my (figurative) acres of touch-sensitive or LCD real estate.

On the dashboard, the MBUX interface is front and centre - almost inescapably so - with a central 12-inch portrait screen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Rear passengers, meanwhile, each receive an 11.6-inch touchscreen ahead of them. There’s also a detachable control tablet to play around with.

As an analogue counterpoint to try and offset the cold bombardment of constantly altering screens, the W223 also incorporates rather large single-piece open-pore wood panel veneers with aluminium inlays, which is one of probably several thousand customisations options offered to the buyer.

Perhaps foremost in the minds of Mercedes-Benz engineers was the new S-Class’s interior. While you could knock the car’s exterior design as an evolutionary step over the
existing E-Class
 and/or outgoing W222 S-Class, the cabin of the W223 invites an entirely new paradigm of chauffeured opulence.

There are some rather comprehensive rethinks about how a flagship luxury saloon should present itself to its occupants. The car makes full use of the additional size to offer sweeping inlays of trim while also expanding interior volume, making for an airier cabin with extra room for premium appointments, such as the extravagant 30-speaker Burmester 4D sound system.

For those tasked with driving the W223 S-Class, Mercedes-Benz has added Intelligent Park Pilot, a new function that leverages the car’s advanced Level 4 autonomous sensor array and computational horsepower to allow the driver to remotely park the S-Class via a smartphone app or even let it park itself after a drop off, where legislation for such things permit.

In more typical situations on the road, the new S-Class claims to offer Level 3 autonomous drive features at speeds of up to 60km/h with Drive Pilot, in particular to aid in the monotony of traffic jams and other low-to-medium speed situations. The automaker is currently in late stage testing and plans to roll the feature out in the latter half of 2021, which will play into the car’s over-the-air (OTA) software update plan.


What A Pro-Driver Thinks of the Toyota Camry Hybrid

Our friends at Roda Pusing have quite impressive CVs. Hisham Jahudi is an advanced driving instructor at MotoMassa Driver Training and a former racing driver who used to race at the Merdeka Millennium Endurance Race. Albakry Salehuddin on the other hand, is a trained automotive technician who started fixing TVRs before moving to Renault. Give him anything on wheels and he will be able to take it apart and put it back together.
Their recent video featuring the Toyota Camry Hybrid offers a simple-to-understand overview of how hybrids work – useful for first-time hybrid owners.
We will also be publishing our thoughts on the Camry Hybrid soon. Meanwhile, watch their video below. More videos at their Youtube channel at
Roda Pusing
.


Goodyear Worry Free Assurance Protects Against Road Hazards

Goodyear Malaysia wants to give Malaysian drivers extra peace of mind while on the road with its Worry Free Assurance programme - as long as their cars are riding
on Goodyear tyres
, of course.

Called WFA for short, Goodyear is now - effective July 1st, 2022 - offering an enhanced warranty for all its tyres sold throughout the country from Goodyear Autocare or participating outlets, regardless of minimum purchase.

Goodyear Worry Free Assurance programme

“Since the Malaysian government announced the endemic phase in May, the number of cars on the road has seen an increase of two-fold compared to 2019. As such, we want to encourage our customers to be aware of their vehicle tyre’s health so they can drive with peace of mind,”

“As an advocate of on-the-road safety, we believe the new Worry Free Assurance programme will help our customers stay safe and have an enjoyable drive for the long run,” said Alex Ng, Managing Director of Goodyear Malaysia.

Customers who participate in the programme receive 3 new benefits, including:

5-Years Warranty
 -
Each customer of Goodyear tyres receives a five-year limited warranty from the date of purchase stated in the original invoice (as opposed to the tyre’s manufacturing date) covering manufacturer defects, workmanship, or materials used.

1-Year Road Hazard Warranty
-
For a period of 1 year from the stated date of purchase, customers are eligible for a free 1-to-1 exchange if the tyre or tyres are damaged beyond repair during normal driving by road hazards such as potholes and/or sharp objects as long as the tread depth is 5.0mm or higher. This is double the previous WFA coverage of 6-months and a minimum tread depth of 6.0mm.

2x Free Tyre Safety Check
 -
The new WFA programme ensures customers’ tyres are in optimal condition by providing two free tyre safety checks. Customers may return to the original Goodyear Autocare centre where they purchased their tyres for the two free safety checks on the sixth and twelfth month from the date of purchase, giving customers additional peace of mind while driving.

Customers who purchase any
new Goodyear consumer tyres
 can easily sign up to be part of the Worry Free Assurance programme by following 3 simple steps:

Purchase any new Goodyear consumer tyres from Goodyear Autocare or participating outlets.

Receive invoice and WFA card from Goodyear Autocare or participating outlets.

Register the purchased tyres on https://www.goodyear.com.my/warranty/register-your-tyres to activate their WFA, by uploading your receipt and WFA card number.

Customers who intend to claim the free 1-to-1 exchange or conduct the free tyre safety check must provide both their WFA card and purchase invoice at the participating outlets.

Should the WFA card be missing, customers can print out the WFA online registration instead.


New Renault Megane R.S Trophy-R Is Quicker Than The Civic Type R Around The Nurburgring

After being the fastest front-wheel drive production car around the Nurburgring-Nordschleiffe for two years, it is time for the Honda Civic Type R FK8 to step aside, as the title has been grabbed by the new Renault Megane R.S Trophy-R.
All set to make its global debut at this weekend’s Formula 1 round in Monaco, France, the Megane R.S Trophy-R lapped the ‘Ring’ in 7 minutes and 40.1 seconds, which is 3.7 seconds quicker than the
Civic Type R’s lap time back in April 2017
.
Powered by the same 1.8-litre turbocharged engine as the regular Megane Trophy which produces 300 PS and 420 Nm of torque, the Megane R.S Trophy-R owes its increased speed to the weight reduction of up to 130 kg, tweaked aerodynamics, as well as the more radically setup chassis.
Although Renault didn’t really get into the details of the tweaks that have gone into the car, it did mention that the car features lightweight exhausts by Akrapovic, Bridgestone tyres, Brembo brakes, as well as Ohlins suspension.
Piloted by Renault Sport development driver Laurent Hurgon, the Megane R.S Trophy-R is expected to go on sale before the end of 2019, but Renault said that production will be limited to only a few hundred units.
That said, here is the video of the new Renault Megane R.S Trophy-R's record breaking lap around the Nurburgring:


New Hyundai Elantra Facelifted Listed For Sale, Debut Soon?

The current generation Hyundai Elantra, codenamed AD, was introduced in Malaysia back in 2017. Not long after that, a new
facelifted version
 made its global debut in August 2018, with
Singapore
 being the first market in the region to launch the model earlier this year.
Thanks to an
ad posted
 by a Hyundai dealer on Carlist.my, it appears that Hyundai Sime Darby Motors will be introducing the new facelifted Elantra in the coming months.
The ad mentioned two variants - 2.0 Dynamic and a 2.0 Executive. Curiously, the Elantra Sport was not mentioned.
Tentative prices are said to start from RM 109,000 for the 2.0 Executive variant, not too far off from the current Elantra’s RM 109,888 starting price.
The new Elantra gets a completely revamped exterior with a sharper front fascia and sportier rear end. The interior has also been refreshed.
Safety wise, the updated Elantra is also available with SmartSense, which is Hyundai’s suite of advanced driver assistance, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keep Assist, Blind Spot Collision Warning with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Change Assist, Driver Attention Alert, Safe Exit Assist, and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection.


Ford Ranger Sales Surge 12 Percent In Q3 2019 – Unwavering Demand

The Ford Ranger pickup truck continues to prove its popularity in Malaysia, with strong customer demand during Q3 of 2019 driving retail sales up 12 percent from Q2 of 2019.

The solid sales helped the Ford Ranger boost its share of the pickup segment in the third quarter, gaining 1.5 percentage points from the prior quarter to 16.2 percent.

“The Ford Ranger continues to set the benchmark for the segment with its unmatched versatility, advanced technology, safety features, comfort and bold exterior,” said Syed Ahmad Muzri Bin Syed Faiz, Managing Director, Sime Darby Auto ConneXion. “We are proud to continue working with Ford to further enhance our exceptional Ranger customer and ownership experience.”

The Ranger’s proves popular with the pickup truck of customers in Malaysia who appreciate a vehicle that complements both work demands and customer’s lifestyles.

In addition to strong sales, the Ranger has also garnered numerous local automotive industry awards including the ‘2019 Malaysia Pick-Up Truck of the Year’ at the Frost & Sullivan Asia Pacific Best Practices Awards, and ‘Pickup Truck of the Year’ at the Carlist.my People’s Choice Awards & Editors’ Choice Awards 2018.


REPORT: Highway Toll Charges To Go Up By 30 Percent?

The Star
 has just reported that following Friday’s Cabinet meeting, a source revealed to news site that the government is “seriously mulling a move to raise toll charges by 30%.”
The brief report also mentioned that up to 16 highways could be affected by the new charges, and it won’t be long before that number climbs to 19.
If implemented, frequent users of the NPE highway who currently pay the RM1.60 charges could end up having to fork out up to RM2.10.
The Star also reported that it remains unclear if the rumoured new charges would be implemented all at once, and be gradually increased in stages.
How much do you pay for toll daily?


Proton Lancar Ladang Solar Terbesar - Jimat Elektrik RM4.39 Juta Setahun

Proton
 telah melancarkan ladang solar terbesar di Malaysia, di kilang
Tanjung Malim
 dengan penjimatan sebanyak RM4.39 juta setahun.

Ini merupakan inisiatif tenaga solar Proton bagi membantu mengurangkan pelepasan karbon dioksida sebanyak 11,536 tan setahun sambil menjimatkan kos utiliti.

Gabungan tenaga yang dijana daripada kemudahan panel solar dwi-muka di tempat letak kereta terbesar di Malaysia berserta panel solar yang telah dipasang di atas bumbung kilangnya ialah 12MWp (puncak Megawatt), cukup untuk memenuhi sehingga 25% daripada penggunaan kuasa kilang itu dalam sehari.

Tempat letak kereta
 itu digunakan sebagai tempat transit bagi kereta yang dikeluarkan di kilang tersebut sebelum diedarkan kepada pengedar dan cawangan di seluruh negara. Ia meliputi kawasan seluas 23.4 ekar dan memuatkan sebanyak 2,880 kereta.

Tempat letak kereta itu kini dipenuhi dengan 20,544 panel solar dwi muka yang mempunyai 2 fungsi seperti:

Menjana tenaga daripada cahaya matahari secara langsung pada bahagian atas.

Menjana tenaga pantulan cahaya matahari dari permukaan jalan dan kereta yang diletakkan di bawah panel.

Selain itu, panel solar terbabit juga berfungsi sebagai tempat berteduh bagi meletakkan dan melindungi kereta yang baru dihasilkan daripada unsur-unsur kerosakan.

Dibina dan ditauliahkan oleh Kumpulan Pekat dan rakan bersekutunya MFP Solar, kemudahan panel solar itu boleh menjana 9MWp dan berpotensi untuk mengurangkan bil elektrik Proton sebanyak RM4.39 juta setahun dengan penjimatan sebanyak RM1.46 juta melalui 3MWp yang dijana oleh panel yang dipasang di atas bumbung kilang. Ia cukup untuk memenuhi sehingga 25% daripada penggunaan kuasa kilang itu dalam sehari.

“Kemudahan panel solar Proton adalah sebahagian daripada inisiatif hijau syarikat yang menyahut cabaran untuk membantu Malaysia memenuhi sasaran kerajaan untuk menjadi negara neutral karbon menjelang tahun 2050,’ ujar Timbalan Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Proton, Roslan Abdullah.

Difahamkan Proton telah memulakan perjalanan untuk mengurangkan karbonnya sejak 2015 dengan melancarkan Proton Green Wheel dan Polisi Hijau pertamanya yang terdiri daripada 5 fasa.

Polisi Hijau Proton

Fasa 1: Perlaksanaan Sistem Pengurusan Tenaga di kilang pengeluaran dan ibu pejabatnya untuk mengumpul dan menilai data penggunaan.

Fasa 2: Terdiri daripada langkah-langkah Kecekapan Tenaga di mana beberapa projek penjimatan tenaga telah dilaksanakan seperti pemasangan lampu LED, penggantian penyejuk dengan penyejuk magnet, dan menggunakan unit pemampat induk untuk menyegerakan bekalan udara termampat untuk memadankan permintaan semasa pada setiap bahagian pengeluaran.

Fasa 3: Memberi tumpuan kepada Pengurusan Sisa dan Air dengan melaksanakan sistem di mana air kitar semula digunakan untuk menara penyejuk pemampat dan menambah air untuk tangki air pili (hydrant) di kilang Tanjung Malim.

Fasa 4: Penggunaan tenaga boleh diperbaharui melalui loji tenaga solar.

Fasa 5: Mendigitalkan semua data tenaga Proton dalam
cloud server
 untuk memperkenalkan teknologi
AI
 dan Analitis Data Besar bagi membolehkan pengurusan tenaga syarikat dengan ramalan penggunaan tenaga dan langkah preskriptif untuk mengurangkan penggunaan tenaga di semua kilang dan kemudahan pejabat.

Dalam tempoh lima tahun dari 2015 hingga 2020, inisiatif ini telah mencapai penjimatan bil tenaga sebanyak RM20 juta atau bersamaan penjimatan 55,000 MWj dan lebih 40,000 tan pengurangan pelepasan karbon dioksida ke udara.


Gunakan kerusi khas untuk bayi

Bagi mereka yang akan berada di dalam kenderaan bersama keluarga, terutama yang mempunyai bayi atau kanak-kanak kecil, beri perhatian yang lebih terhadap mereka.
Jangan biarkan anak-anak berkeliaran sesuka hati ketika berada di dalam kenderaan dan ketika anda sedang memandu. Adalah sangat penting untuk menggunakan kerusi bayi/kanak-kanak khas demi memastikan keselamatan mereka.
Walaupun anda beranggapan anda memandu dengan berhemat, ataupun selama ini anda tidak pernah terlibat di dalam kecelakaan jalan raya, itu bukanlah jaminan bahawa anda akan sentiasa terlepas daripada terlibat dengan insiden-insiden yang mungkin berlaku ketika dijalan raya. Ada kalanya, anda memang bukan punca yang menyebabkan insiden-insiden berkenaan, tetapi terlibat sebagai mangsa keadaan.
Jangan ambil mudah hal ini. Malang tidak berbau, dan sekiranya anda memberi seribu satu alasan untuk tidak meletakkan anak-anak di dalam kerusi khas ini, hanya sedikit kejadian yang tidak diingini berlaku, nyawa mereka berada di dalam bahaya dan kecederaan yang mungkin dialami boleh jadi sangat serius.
Ada yang akan memberikan alasan bahawa anak-anak tidak selesa berada di dalam kerusi khas itu. Jika itu yang mengganggu, maka pupuk mereka sejak awal untuk membiasakan diri dalam situasi tempat duduk bayi berkenaan. Cari kaedah untuk membolehkan mereka duduk dengan selesa.
Tidak terlepas, mungkin juga ada yang merasakan bahawa kerusi khas kanak-kanak ini mahal harganya. Ini pun tanggapan yang tidak betul; jika ditangan anda ada sebuah telefon pintar yang harganya ribuan ringgit yang mampu anda asingkan wang untuk memilikinya, mengapa kerusi khas ini dirasakan begitu mahal?
Padahal, kerusi ini direka untuk menyelamatkan nyawa, dan adakah anda beranggapan bahawa nyawa anak-anak tidak lebih mahal daripada sebuah telefon pintar?


Geely Reveals Stunning 2023 Boyue L - CMA Platform, Luxury Interior, Advanced Hybrids

This is the Geely Boyue L, an all-new SUV model to slot above the smaller Boyue (which is what our Proton X70 is based on). Like the larger Xingyue L, this is also built upon the
Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) platform
 used by the Volvo XC90, among others.

It’s no surprise given how big the Boyue L looks in pictures which, despite the name, bares very little resemblance visually or dimensionally
to the ‘normal’ Boyue
. The L designation denotes its extended wheelbase at 2,777mm (107mm longer than the Proton), as reported by
Car News China
.

Proton's Next X70?

However, it is also implied that without that added length between axles, this is the incoming Boyue that could eventually wear a Proton badge as the new X70 as the current-generation car is based on a car first released in 2016 and definitely ripe for a full-blown refresh.

As refreshes go, there’s no vehicle in Geely’s line-up that more dramatically contrasts the older Boyue than this Boyue L. It looks positively futuristic in its sharp lines, a front-end design and front illumination combo that’ll get Cadillac’s legal team fired up, and wheels that look oversized enough to be on a concept car.

Despite being a finished product revealed to the public with few changes due before it hits showrooms in China in Q4 2022, there is a surprising amount of gaps in available information about the Boyue L.

The interior, for example, remains mostly shrouded in mystery besides a teaser showing a screen-heavy dashboard with a very large 13.2-inch infotainment screen oriented vertically and a smaller but equally freestanding digital instrument cluster. Both run on Geely’s Galaxy OS Air operating system which, surprisingly, isn’t yet patented by Samsung.

Turbo-Petrols And Impressive Hybrids

In terms of powertrains, these are led by a pair of turbocharged petrol engines of 1.5-litre or 2.0-litre capacity producing, respectively, 183PS/290Nm or 220PS and 325Nm mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission - probably identical or very similar to the one that debuted in Malaysia alongside
the Proton X70 facelift
.

Two electrified versions will be offered as a series hybrid or plug-in hybrid and both use the smaller 1.5-litre engine with an integrated electric motor and a 3-speed dedicated hybrid transmission from Geely’s Leishen Power powertrain division.

We’ll have more information as it comes about the Boyue L while also counting down the days until it is hopefully confirmed that this is indeed a taste of what we can expect the next-generation Proton X70 to be. Can't get here soon enough!


62 Toll Plazas To Support RFID Starting January 1st, 2020

Starting January 1st, 2020, a total of 62 toll plazas over 24 highways will have RFID-enabled lanes enabled, allowing road users to pay using their Touch n’Go eWallet accounts.

According to Bernama, the Works Ministry announced this move as an important one toward a “multi-lane free-flow system”, improving the efficiency and experience of highway users throughout the country.

Motorists of class one vehicles will, from January 1st, have additional payment and pass-through options on highways such as the KESAS Expressway, Kajang Silk Expressway, and the Butterworth Ring Road.

Certain toll plazas along the North-South Expressway will also have RFID lanes opened, including: Bangunan Sultan Iskandar (Johor Bahru), Kempas and Senai (Johor), and Jitra (Kedah).

“The test run for the RFID has been conducted at selected toll plazas since 2018 and received positive response from motorists. To date, the number of RFID users has exceeded 830,000,” the statement reads.

That “test run” has been ongoing since September 2018 and has gathered a mostly positive response from motorists despite the relatively limited number of toll plazas that support it - mostly confined to within the Klang Valley.

Within the coming months and years, we can expect a much wider adoption of toll plazas opening their lanes to RFID users, smoothening the highway experience above where it stands currently with SmarTAG and physical Touch n’Go cards as their use on highways get phased out.


Audi Confirms Q1 And Q8, Set To Hit New Sales Record

With over 591,000 cars delivered in the first four months of 2015, Audi looks set to surpass its previous record of 1.74 million cars sold in 2014.
At the 126th Annual General Meeting of Audi AG in Neckarsulm, Germany earlier today,
Audi
 CEO Rupert Stadler said, “We intend to continue growing this year – faster than the world market and in all regions. Our brand aims to set new records.”
The growth will be supported by the
Audi Q7
 which was recently launched in Europe, as well as the new
Audi TT
, new RS 3 Sportback and
new R8
. Audi also confirmed that the
next-generation A4
 is set to join its model line-up in the second half of this year.
The company also adds that in order to attract new customers to the Audi brand, the company plans to systematically expand its model range in the coming years. By 2020, 60 different models are to be offered, including three additional members of the Q family.
A sub-compact Q1 SUV will join the line-up in 2016, while the upcoming Q8 is expected to debut in 2019, taking over from the Q7 to become Audi's new flagship SUV model.
A yet-to-be-named sporty, electric drive (likely to be a plug-in hybrid e-tron model) SUV model will also be added in 2018.
Overall, Audi says it plans to expand its model range from today’s 52 to 60 vehicles in 2020.


Renault To Reveal New Global Crossover Model In Moscow Next Month

Renault has announced that it will be revealing an all-new C-segment crossover at the upcoming 2018 Moscow Motor Show in August.
The model, which was teased in an image released by Renault yesterday, will most likely be based on the Renault Kaptur, a larger version of the Captur compact SUV which is available only in Russia.
Yet to be named, the new crossover will be built at Renault’s plant in Moscow and launched in Russia first, with other markets around the globe to follow.
From what we can see, the crossover features Renault’s latest design language, with C-shaped daytime running lights that join seamlessly join the headlights, just like the front end of the new Megane.
Some sources say that it could be a ‘coupe’ version of the Kaptur, featuring a low-slung roof and sportier visual appearance.
According to Renault, the vehicle which will be revealed at the Moscow Motor Show will still be a ‘show car’ and not the finished production model, though it will be an extremely close preview.
More details are to be revealed closer to its premiere next month.


Road Safety Marshal Club Shares Things That You Must Have In Your Car To Stay Safe

You know that Raya is just around the corner when Yusuf Taiyoob's advertisements starts playing on the radio. With the festive season drawing closer, many of us, especially the folks from the city would be longing to travel back kampung for some delicious rendang, ketupat and lemang.
So before we start stuffing ourselves with all those amazing hometown cuisines, how equipped and prepared are we for the long journey back home to see our loved ones?
Since accidents are not predictable, anyone can be a victim – this includes you. So, arming yourself with a few tools in your vehicle might just give you a better chance at survival.
“Malaysians should always be alert on the road. People sometimes have the perception that accidents won’t happen to them. They can read all the tragic news on the papers and internet every day but they are still unaware of the importance being prepared on such situations,” said Road Safety Marshal Club chairman, K. Balasupramaniam.
Urging road users to stay safe during the festive season, the safety activist who occasionally organises road safety workshop advises vehicle owners to keep a few life-saving items with them while travelling.
“One of the best things to have in your car is an
emergency rescue hammer
 that comes with siren and torch light. It can be easily stored in your glove compartment and you can use it to smash your window when you are trapped,” he said.
Apart from practicing the habits of frequent car services and constant monitoring of tyre pressures, it is crucial to ensure the vehicle’s
basic repair tools are complete
.
Other items that one should have in a vehicle which can come in handy for an emergency situations includes a fire extinguisher, first aid kit, jumper cable, traffic cones, and a rain poncho.
“The public must educate themselves with safety knowledge. They should know simple things like first aid because sometimes the accident might not happen to them but they can help. Additional things that are good to have are a
towing cable and masking tape
. Since Malaysia has constant issues with flood, the towing cable can come in handy to assist other cars that are stranded in the flood and masking tape can be used to temporarily seal minor accident damage.”
Bala further expressed that one of the ways to decrease road accidents during the festive season is for
highway operators to discontinue giving night discounts
 as it encourages citizens to travel at night.
“Not everyone is used to driving long distance at night. Most people’s driving routine is to the office and back so when the rate is cheaper at night they feel the need to drive during that time because they want to save up. Furthermore, try to keep little children awake when travelling because when an accident happens, they are aware,” he concluded.


Review: 2016 Ford Focus - An Improvement by Nearly Every Measure.

For Ford, this generation of products is the first to take on the challenge of being appealing on a global scale, in a large variety of markets. This can be an incredibly difficult exercise in both engineering and marketing, but the advantages of production on a global scale more than make up for the effort involved.
This facelift of the third generation Focus brings more than just a few styling changes. As we explained in the
launch

story
,
first drive
,
 and
review
, this new Focus is equipped with a 1.5-litre EcoBoost motor, paired with a conventional automatic transmission. The decision to reduce capacity from 1.6-litres to 1.5-litres (despite barely any change in output) was influenced largely by the Chinese market, which has much higher taxation for engine capacities over 1.5 litres.
But on to the drive. The trip began at Ara Damansara, early on a sleepy Thursday morning, following a short briefing and some much needed coffee. We were paired off into our respective cars, with which we proceeded to pair our phones with the SYNC2 system effortlessly. By luck of the draw, my partner and I were assigned a Focus Titanium for the first two legs of the journey.
This worked out nicely as the sedan is better suited for the long stretches of highway. With a longer overall body and equipped with the standard suspension (instead of the stiffer set on the Sport variants), the Titanium soaked up the undulations as we cruised along at a leisurely pace. This wasn’t the usual media drive with balls-out antics and fighting our way down the highway, but rather a more relaxed event.
There are some things that become more apparent when stretching the Focus out over a long distance trip. The lightened steering weight puts less strain on the driver, while the turbocharged motor allows for quick, effortless overtaking. The 1.5-litre mill may not have much to speak of at the top end of its rpm range, but it doesn’t require you to get up there during brief overtaking manoeuvres.
One driver change and a few hundred kilometres later, we pulled off into Taiping for a quick lunch at Spritzer EcoPark. The back roads were a welcome change of pace from the highway, but with Penang in sight we knew that the best roads were just an hour or so away. Thankfully, we were due for a car change and had the benefit of swapping to the Sport+ hatchback variant, in the striking Sport+ specific Winning Blue paint finish.
The kilometres ticked away in air-conditioned comfort, and soon enough the second bridge (or the Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge as it is formally known) loomed before us. This was the threshold, and crossing it would mean entering a city with some of the most crowded and confined streets in the nation. It would be a true test for the Focus- to see if it could function in such a tight environment.
First up was the infamous Balik Pulau trunk road, winding along the western edge of the island. Beginning at Bayan Lepas and terminating in Batu Feringghi, this 11 kilometre stretch of road plays host to tourists during the day and local car enthusiasts by night. Many points throughout the route require absolute precision with car placement as the road narrows in the most frustrating fashion- especially when confronted with oncoming traffic.
Nonetheless, our Sport+ variant proved to be very capable and agile through the bends, though the automatic transmission was not nearly as quick to react as we hoped. It was a reasonable enough compromise as the EcoBoost motor provided enough low end grunt to haul out of corners with ease.
Shortly after pulling into the hotel, we were treated with a demonstration of the various different assisted parking functions that the Focus now comes packaged with. We did a video on this earlier, which you can see in the clip above.
The second day of our experience involved traversing the island itself- and there are few better items on an itinerary than the kind that gives you free reign. Backtracking along the Balik Pulau road for another shot of driving pleasure, my partner and I chose to cut across the island’s central mountain range and dive straight into the town itself. Friday afternoon traffic was beginning to mount, and we quickly sighted in on one of Penang’s more popular
cendol
 stalls for some refreshing desserts.
Navigating back alleys filled with throngs of tourists and the odd rampant motorcyclist can be a daunting task for any driver. The Focus manages to make it a little easier with its proximity sensors and good all-round visibility- but the cross traffic alert at the rear is incredibly useful when trying to back out of dead ends. Penang motorists may have a bad reputation (although perhaps a result of being misunderstood), but having an extra pair of eyes at the back is an invaluable accident-preventing tool.
While the new powertrain is a hit and miss at times, the new Focus is still an arguable improvement over the pre-facelift variant. The new interior on the higher spec models is a far sight better than the relatively simple setup of before, with the SYNC2 system bringing the Focus in line with its rivals. This model presents all the inherent characteristics associated with the Focus namesake, with great handling dynamics and precision on the road making it that little bit more fun than the competition. The new 1.5-litre powertrain is an excellent replacement for the 2.0-litre GDI lump, and the automatic transmission is a far more pragmatic option than the dual clutch unit of before. If anything, this facelift has proven that there is life yet in the third generation Focus- torque converter and all.


Mitsubishi Teases New Compact SUV Ahead of Geneva

When it comes to Mitsubishi's products, they tend to be a little ahead of their time. The Lancer GT was a sedan that excelled when compared to its more contemporary rivals, but it came to the market just a little too early. The ASX too was a compact SUV that existed years before the Honda HR-V or the Toyota CH-R, and yet has features and practicality quite nearly comparable to the two.
But that's in the past. The upcoming Geneva Motor Show is providing Mitsubishi with the opportunity to show off their latest and greatest models, as well as concepts of cars to come. Ahead of the show, Mitsubishi is teasing a new compact SUV that some are saying could be called the Eclipse. It is proportionally larger than the ASX, and is not intended to replace the ASX, but rather sit somewhere between the ASX and the larger Outlander.
There are some hints of the XR-PHEV Concept in this teaser, and Mitsubishi's growing expertise with plug-in hybrids means that there's likely going to be a variant with this new model as well. It's also about time for Mitsubishi to step up in terms of design language and features, and this new model may be their chance to shine. The model, if it comes to market, will be aimed directly at the Honda HR-V and the Toyota CH-R.


SpeedKore Built A Road-Going Dodge Charger From The Fast & Furious 9

The team behind Dominic Toretto's insane Dodge Charger in the Fast & Furious 9 has built a road-going version.

Behind all of the cinematic chase scenes, explosions, fictitious death-defying stunts, and colourful storylines, Fast & Furious is essentially a movie about
cars
 and Dominic Torreto's life.

Although many
vehicles and characters
 have come and gone throughout the Fast & Furious franchise, there has always been one character and car that has stuck throughout the franchise, and that actor and car are Dominic Toretto and his Dodge Charger.

While you cannot buy Dominic Toretto, you can now kind of buy his latest Dodge Charger, seen in Fast & Furious 9 (we'll explain why you can kind of buy it at the end).

Thanks to Wisconsin-based vehicle fabricators, SpeedKore Performance Group, you can now live out your Fast & Furious fantasy as they have made a road-going version of the car which has just appeared in the latest Fast & Furious movie,
F9
.

SpeedKore is the company responsible for supplying the famous Dodge Charger in F9. They provided nine unique and special chassis and bodies for filming but created the Hellacious for the road.

The Hellacious is equipped with a 6.2-litre supercharged Hellcat V-8, which sends 707 hp and 880 Nm of torque to the rear wheels through a Graziano gated-manual transaxle from a Lamborghini Gallardo.

SpeedKore fabricated a custom exhaust system using exotic MagnaFlow components to accommodate the mid-engine layout, which ends in downward-facing tips. A front-mount Saldana radiator keeps the engine heat at bay, while rear-mounted intercoolers keep the air cool for the supercharger.

Stopping the brute are Brembo's 6-piston callipers at the front and dual 4-piston callipers at the rear. The car also has an interesting hydraulic handbrake, which can benefit drivers who like to make the car dance.

Speaking of dancing, the suspension setup which helps keep the car on its toes while dancing is a set of double A-arms at the front and double-wishbone at the rear. The Charger is also equipped with an aftermarket steering rack and shocks to improve handling.

The mid-engine muscle car rides on centre-lock HRE wheels with 275/35R18 front and 345/35R18 rear tires.

Like SpeedKore's previous Charger builds, Hellacious' shell is made out of carbon fibre. SpeedKore gave the car a bad boy wide-body look this time but kept the original hideaway headlights.

The interior is sparse, only being equipped with racing buckets and harnesses, a roll hoop, and a simple aluminium dashboard to save weight.

This isn't the first SpeedKore Charger to appear in a "Fast & Furious" movie, as the company's 1970 Charger, Tantrum appeared in Furious 7.

Remember earlier we said you can kind of buy it, well it's not exactly true because this exact car you can not have. It's one of the company's "most extreme builds to date", according to boss Jim Kacmarcik. But since they are tuners and fabricators, with the right amount of money, we're pretty sure you can ask them to build you one - they are after all, in a business which sells cars and car parts.

But if you have only around RM1mil to play with, you could always buy a modern factory-made
Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat
 on Carlist.my. It might not have the retro look of the F9 Charger, but it does have around 700 hp and 800 Nm of torque. Surely this a good substitute no?