Proton Expects Better Fortunes In 2016

2014 has been a washout year for
Proton
 and 2015 isn't looking good for the national carmaker. Total sales for calendar year 2014 reached a new low of 115,783 units, eroding its market share to just 17.4 percent but the company is optimistic that Proton will turnaround by the end of financial year ending March 2016.
10 years ago, in 2004, when the market was less competitive with less foreign makes competing with Proton, its annual figures were 168,616 units sold, and a 34.6 percent market share. The all-new
Proton Iriz
 was launched with much fanfare but market acceptance has been lukewarm, forcing Proton to offer up to RM8,000 discount for the recently launched model.
Proton's CEO Datuk Abdul Harith Abdullah told Bernama that Proton has sold 11,000 units of the Iriz since its launch in September 2014, and that it expects sales to improve over the next few months, especially with the coming Hari Raya festival.
"The Iriz is very saleable as it has technological characteristics only available in continental cars. But consumers only pay half of what they would pay for a continental car," he said.
Meanwhile, The Edge Markets also quoted Datuk Harith as saying “I have to admit that we recorded our lowest [sales] performance last year. But that did not deter us from moving forward. Based on our plan, I am optimistic that the road to recovery will materialise by FY16.”
He also said, “We recorded dismal sales last year, perhaps the worst performance ever. But sales last month (March) has surpassed 10,000 units. If we keep the momentum going, we should be able to reach 130,000 units this year,” adding that much of the sales will be driven by the Iriz and Saga.
He also said that Proton sold 5,000 cars in the Middle East last year, mainly contributed by demand for the Persona.


Lexus LS Gets a Dose of F Sport Treatment

Following Lexus’ reinvention of its flagship saloon; the LS at the Detroit Auto Show earlier this year, the sportier version of the sedan – the LS F Sport, was just revealed ahead of the New York Auto Show.
Available in both petrol and petrol-electric hybrid versions, the LS F Sport is powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine that was developed specifically for the new LS 500, equipped with twin turbochargers developed using Formula 1 technology.
Capable of delivering V8-level performance, which is 415bhp and 600Nm of torque, the engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission – another first for Lexus.
In case you’re wondering how quick it is, the LS F Sport is capable of sprinting from naught to 100km/h in just 4.5 seconds.
As for the Hybrid model, the same engine mentioned above is equipped with Lexus’s Multi Stage Hybrid System, delivering 295hp and 354 Nm of torque.
According to Lexus, the car is able to clock speeds of up to 140kmh and sprint from zero to 100km/h in 5.4 seconds in full electric mode.
Design wise, the LS F Sport features a coupe-like silhouette, a dramatic rendition of the signature Lexus spindle grille, enlarged side grilles, rocker panel, boot mouldings, F Sport badging on the wings, and 20-inch alloy wheels.
Inside, the LS F Sport is equipped with a special F Sport steering wheel and instrumentation that presents speedometer and tachometer in a moving meter display, adapted from the technology and design created for the LFA supercar.
Another unique feature is the use of Ultrasuede material across the seats complemented by a headliner. It is said that a new red interior finish will also be offered exclusively for F Sport models.
Featuring three driving modes (Normal, Sport S or Sport S+) and Lexus’ latest generation Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM), the LS is constructed on an extended version of the global architecture for luxury vehicles (GA-L) platform Lexus has used for its new LC flagship coupe.
Offered in White Nova and Heat Blue colours that are exclusive to the F Sport, the car is expected to go on sale later this year.


When Can Rakyat Enjoy Electrified Cars Buatan Malaysia?

As a nation, we’ve been making cars for - what - around 35 years at this point. Despite the ‘usual’ setbacks, we have gotten decently good at it and, for better or worse, various policies and incentives have kept the
buatan Malaysia
 cars in demand at various price points.

Stumbling into 2020s, as we find ourselves now, the echoed yelp of futurists and environmentalists remind us that the era of internal combustion is drawing to a close - that cars powered by electricity are the way forward, and that we should be embracing EVs and hybrids at a quicker rate than we are now.

It’s a sentiment that we agree on in a general sense (mostly). Fossil fuel is a depleting non-renewable resource and there’s no escaping the fate of that supply running dry at some point. EVs, or even partially electric cars for that matter, do have an impressive list of advantages.

Furthermore, those plus points have been known for a very long time: zero emissions (if it’s a full EV), instant torque, and did we mention zero emissions? The Toyota Prius was the original four-wheeled darling of the go green movement and has become the archetypal hybrid vehicle. And that was first launched all the way back in 1997; 23 years ago.

Why hasn’t Malaysian cars caught up? Isn’t it high time we see a hybrid Proton or Perodua roll down the road? Better yet, a plug-in hybrid or even a fully electric vehicle. Is that even the right car to be asking for?

There’s clearly a market for PHEVs in Malaysia, evidenced by the sheer volume of people who’ve already bought one. While that kind of powertrain is still highly complex and, as such, requires both a high cost of development and end purchase price, is there a solid case to be made for either of our national carmakers to be going down this path?

The answer is also way more complex. There’s a reason why the vast majority of fully electric or electrified vehicles remain in the domain of the premium. Barring some technological breakthrough, that isn’t likely to change.

To their great credit, EVs and hybrids have made great strides of their own. They’re now able to boast of incredible electric range and have astonishing levels of performance at the high end, raising the bar even higher for what these kinds of cars are expected to deliver.

Some attributes remain constant, however, and these all factor into final cost of the vehicle. Firstly, batteries, even the modern lithium ion cells, aren’t as energy dense when compared per volume to petrol or diesel and are still prone to degredation (reduced charge capacity) over time. Secondly, their production is also dependent on non-renewable materials and require some rather dirty mining manufacturing processes.

Batteries are also heavy and very costly to produce at the kind of quantity necessary to make an electric car worth using at all, which in turn requires the manufacturer to design a wholly new platform to accommodate that many banks of cells. This is why cars like the Jaguar I-PACE, Porsche Taycan, Audi e-tron, and Mercedes-Benz EQC all sit on a purpose-built architecture specific to EVs.

Platform sharing is one of the most commonly used methods to streamline various models and dramatically reduces the cost of production at the development stage. These are savings passed on to the buyer and without it, automakers would need to recoup that expense at other levels, which is why only premium marques dare venture into this territory at all as their customers are much likelier to tolerate a higher sticker price.

As companies, these premium automakers are also the likeliest to have pockets deep enough to fund such a project and afford the expertise and training necessary to equip their workforce with the more specialised production and after-sales infrastructure.

Even if Proton and/or Perodua were hell-bent on offering a PHEV or full EV in their showrooms, they would probably need to be priced well over double of what the next most expensive car in their line-up costs. Even with moderate government subsidies and incentives, it’s hard to imagine too many Malaysians springing out of their seats to put in their order.

It’s not all doom and gloom, though. While the terms ‘fully electric’ and ‘zero emissions’ is quite specific and very likely to be beyond the grasp of Malaysian-made showroom models for a few more years at the least, ‘electrification’ is very much within their reach.

As stepping stones to that goal, both Proton and Perodua could introduce cars with a diet version of EV features. Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEVs) is one that’s largely identical to the petrol or diesel-powered ones we’re familiar with, but use a miniaturised electric powertrain to aid the engine where it’s the weakest and least efficient, improving fuel economy.

Instead of a conventional starter, a higher-power electric motor/generator takes its place and allows the engine to be turned off during coasting or braking but then restarted again much quicker (a.k.a Start-Stop). Regenerative braking can also be used to further recover energy otherwise lost as heat and this can be channelled back to an integrated motor to aid acceleration at low speeds.

An MHEV system is a lot like a PHEV but without the large battery and its companion high-output electric motor which also means mild hybrids can’t be driven on electric power alone, requiring a conventional engine for propulsion.Better fuel economy and more performance with only a relatively minor bump in cost and purchase price. Seems like something Malaysians would respond very well to.

Geely already offers MHEV variants of their Borui, a D-segment sedan, which is paired to the 1.5-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder engine, the same motor slated to power the upcoming small SUV from Proton, tipped to be called the X50, and possibly leaving the door open for it to be the first ‘hybrid’ vehicle to be sold under a Malaysian badge.

If Geely and Proton put their heads together to figure out the economies of scale in producing these MHEV systems, particularly if so done within our borders, it could mean that Malaysians could reap the benefits of an electrified powertrain at some very
mesra rakyat
 prices, perhaps even making the technology available to cars well under RM100,000.


Review: New 2017 Proton Iriz - Few Steps In The Right Direction

During a
dialogue session
 with journalists during the
Proton Persona
 media drive in September last year, Deputy CEO of Proton Dato Md Radzaif Mohamed said that knowledge gained and improvements from the
Persona
 will eventually trickle down to the Iriz.
Ahead of its coming launch, Proton invited members of the Malaysian media to sample the updated Iriz on a brief spin around its Shah Alam test track.
In terms of how the Proton Iriz looks, the company did not rework it heavily, instead chose to give subtle changes instead. The entry-level Iriz 1.3 Standard receives a new glossy black treatment for the upper grille. As for the 1.3 Executive trim, it now comes equipped with a pair of front fog lights.
Then there's the range-topping Iriz 1.6 Premium, which now comes with glossy black side mirros, roof and rear spoiler. Tyre size for the 1.6 Premium has shrunk, as it now rides on 185/55R15 Goodyear Assurance rubbers all round, replacing the predecessor's 195/55R15 rubbers. Two new colours are available, Carnelian Brown and Ruby Red.
Cabin wise, all variants of the new Iriz will receive a new seat pattern, with a pair of blue and red stripes running along the seats. The Iriz 1.6 Premium receives a mix of leather and fabric for the new seats plus red stitching around the carpet and leather-wrapped steering wheel. The dark chrome trim in the range-topping Iriz now has a glossy finish as well, which is found around the gear lever, aircon vents and infotainment system surround. Other highlights include several bits and pieces from the Persona, like the meter cluster and gear shifter for the CVT models.
We did notice that the new Proton Iriz 1.6 Premium has dropped the Auto Headlight feature, though we are pleased to report that the air-conditioning controls have been vastly improved in terms of tactile feel. Elsewhere, Proton has ditched the old Android-based head unit, replacing it with a different unit. They pointed out that the new head unit now features mirroring, dubbed E-Link. Our quick experience with the head unit was largely positive, as the unit responded fluidly.
Visual updates aside, the biggest improvement for the Proton Iriz is in fact what's under the skin. As mentioned earlier, the Iriz is now the recipient for Proton's new 3-mount design for the engine mounts. With less engine mounts to hold the powertrain, vibrations and harshness can be reduced significantly, as there will be less harshness entering the cabin.
 Speaking to one of the engineers at the test track, we were informed that the new muffler is designed to reduce noise and vibrations for the rear passengers when the Iriz accelerates. Elsewhere there is also new sound-proofing materials that lowers the overall cabin noise by up to 5 dB when compared to the older Iriz.
Another highlight for the Iriz is the new TCU software. According to them, the new software allows the CVT in the Iriz to achieve max acceleration sooner than its predecessor, on top of reaching a higher maximum acceleration. These translates into a CVT behaviour that is considerably more responsive than before. Behind the wheel, we did notice the changes, mimicking the Persona in terms of refinement.
We asked the head of Proton Edar, Encik Rashid Musa, how soon can we expect the new Iriz. According to him, he expects to see them on the road as soon as 1st June.
Despite our short time with the improved Proton Iriz, we are fairly confident that the new model is headed to the right direction in terms of refinement. The predecessor was not a bad car to begin with, but Proton's engineers managed to improve the Iriz even further.
Stay tuned for our full review.


All-New BMW 8 Series Coupe To Drop On The Eve Of Le Mans 2018

In a launch event befitting the style and grandiose of the machine itself, BMW will finally pull the covers off its all-new BMW 8 Series Coupe, on the eve of the legendary 24-hours of Le Mans, on June 15th 2018.
The world premiere will take place a day before BMW Motorsport lines up on the Le Mans starting grid in the M8 GTE race car, for the first time since 2011.
Le Mans is the second-round of FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) in 2018, and the third outing for the M8 GTE race cars, after the season opener in Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium, and the US-American IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.
Klaus Fröhlich, board member of the BMW AG, Development added, “There isn’t be a better setting for the world premiere of the new BMW 8 Series Coupe than the 24-hour race at Le Mans. The race is a pure demonstration of passion, dynamics and long-distance capability. These characteristics define our new sports car in a special way.”
The BMW 8 Series was
first unveiled in concept form
 at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este event – reviving a hallowed BMW nameplate last used in 1999. Along with a sleek new design language – the 8 Series also introduced an entirely new cockpit architecture which integrated a sloping centre console, free standing iDrive screen and minimalist switchgear layout.
The production model of the 8 Series was developed in parallel with the M8 GTE race car. BMW claims its experience gained from its racing programs have been concentrated onto the
development of the road-going vehicle
 – in particular – the BMW M850i xDrive Coupe model, which boasts a new 4.4-litre V8 engine, intelligent four-wheel drive, controlled rear axle differential lock, Integral Active Steering, adaptive M suspension featuring Active Roll Stabilization, and 20-inch light alloy wheels wrapped in high-performance tyres. A smaller 3.0-litre for the 840i model is slated to join the line-up in due course.
BMW is light on details, but it is understood that the 8 Series Coupe is being built on the 7 Series’ CLAR platform, and thus should also feature the flagship car’s Carbon Core chassis.
Competitors of the new 8 Series Coupe include the Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe, Lexus LC 500 and Maserati Gran Turismo.


Range Rover Sport Performs First Self-Driving Loop In England

Jaguar Range Rover has just trialled their Range Rover Sport in a fully-automated self-driving journey. The prototype vehicle, fitted with various sensing equipment handled the complex Coventry Ring Road, successfully changing lanes, merging with traffic, and exiting junctions at the speed limit of 40 mph (64 km/h).
The trial is part of the GBP 20 million government-funded project, UK Autodrive, which ends this month after a three-year programme.
The Range Rover Sport, already equipped with Adaptive Cruise Control, has been modified to include additional navigation sensors, RADAR, and LIDAR. Coupled with the UK Autodrive research, the vehicle can now autonomously handle roundabouts, traffic lights, pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles on complicated roads. It can also park itself.
Mark Cund, Jaguar Land Rover Autonomous Vehicle Research Manager, said, “The Coventry Ring Road is known for its complicated slip roads and exits. It makes for very challenging conditions, especially when under pressure in the rush hour.
“Our self-driving car is not impacted by the same pressure, frustrations or fatigue that a driver may experience and so it’s capable of turning a potentially very stressful situation into a completely stress-free one.”
Highly skilled Jaguar Land Rover engineers have also developed connected features as part of UK Autodrive. The safety-enhancing and emission reducing technology uses the internet to connect vehicles to each other and to infrastructure such as traffic lights.
Jaguar Land Rover plans to make the most capable self-driving vehicles a reality for customers within ten years.


Kerajaan Gesa Touch ‘n Go Turunkan Harga RFID – RM35 Masih Mahal

Kerajaan sedia berunding dengan syarikat perkhidmatan pembayaran elektronik,
Touch ‘n Go
 untuk mengurangkan harga jualan tag
Identifikasi Frekuensi Radio (RFID).

Kenyataan tersebut dibuat oleh Menteri Kanan Kerja Raya, Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof ketika dalam sidang Dewan Rakyat. Menurutnya, harga RFID yang kini berharga RM35 perlu dikaji semula oleh syarikat itu yang menjadi penyedia perkhidmatan bagi sistem kutipan tol di semua
lebuh raya
 di Malaysia.

Harga jualan semasa tag RFID itu merangkumi kos tag RFID, pemasangan tag, sistem dan pengoperasian.  Walau bagaimanapun, Fadillah menjelaskan bahawa pihak kerajaan telah meminta supaya pihak TNG mengkaji semula kos-kos berkenaan bagi tujuan mengurangkan harga jualan tag tersebut.

Persoalan itu telah dibangkitkan oleh Datuk Mohd Fasiah Mohd Fakeh yang meminta Kementerian Kerja Raya untuk menyatakan perkembangan pelaksanaan RFID dan sejauh mana penggunaannya dapat mengatasi
kesesakan di plaza tol.

Bagi menjawab soalan terbabit, Fadillah berkata penggunaan RFID dan
Smart Tag
 lebih melancarkan pergerakan kereta di plaza tol di mana sebanyak 1,000 kenderaan telah direkodkan melepasi plaza tol pada tempoh satu jam berbanding hanya 450 kenderaan oleh pengguna yang menggunakan Touch ‘n Go pada tempoh yang sama.

Tambahan pula, isu kesesakan jalan raya yang disebabkan oleh RFID baru-baru ini bukanlah berpunca daripada kegagalan sistem RFID, namun berpunca daripada orang awam yang tidak mempunyai baki eWallet yang mencukupi.

Inisiatif pelaksanaan RFID bukan suatu perancangan yang drastik atau mengejut, namun ia telah dilaksanakan melalui projek rintis RFID melibatkan plaza tol sistem terbuka di Lembah Klang sejak tahun 2017. Menurut Fadillah, jumlah pengguna RFID juga telah meningkat kepada 18% ketika ini.

Terdahulu, isu harga RFID ini mula mendapat perhatian umum apabila bekas Perdana Menteri, Datuk Seri Najib Razak mempertikaikan mengenai harga penjualan pelekat RFID yang
mahal
. Menurut Najib, kos pelekat RFID pasif biasanya bawah RM1 sahaja untuk sekeping.

Pada awalnya, tag RFID memang telah diberikan kepada pengguna secara percuma pada tahun 2018 hingga Februari 2020, sebelum dijual pada harga RM35 pada 15 Februari 2020.


Balik Kampung with the DDPAI Z50 - the dashcam to capture every moment!

We can’t help nor predict what weird, humorous, or potentially dangerous behaviours other people get up to while on the road, but when things do go a little sideways, having the crucial moment securely, accurately, and vividly recorded can be priceless.

Traffic Incidents

This is the situation we all tend to think of first when someone argues in favour of ‘getting a dashcam’ - making sure the mishaps, altercations, and violations are not just avoided and lamented upon, but are preserved and possibly actioned upon.

Quite often, our dashcams record on-the-road occurrences that prove our innocence and clear us wrongdoing while giving the authorities a means to conduct a more thorough investigation.

To this end, the ability for such a device to capture footage clearly and consistently of very high quality becomes essential. The DDPAI Z50, for example, uses an advanced image Sony IMX415 sensor and optics to ensure amazingly sharp, convincing footage even in challenging lighting conditions.

Road Rage

While a lot of dashcam footage found being shared online has some form of entertainment value, the reality is that people can get aggressive while out on the road and take matters into their own hands.

For all the same reasons, having supreme image quality that you can rely on to accurately capture the situation is the most essential attribute of any dashcam and one that the aforementioned Z50 delivers in spades with its video resolution of up to 4K and equally sharp rear-facing camera.

Some aggressive road users will even halt their behaviour and attempt to flee the scene once they realise they are being recorded and that their potentially incriminating behaviour will have negative consequences.

Insurance Scams

Though these are very worthy of the humour they invite on the internet, it just goes to show the sheer lengths people are willing to go to in order to make a quick buck. Back in the days before dashcams were a common fixture as a car accessory, proving something had occurred on the road was just a matter of one person’s word against someone else’s.

And here, the more outrageous the claim made, the harder it is to disprove outright. In these ‘insurance scam’ types of footage, the perpetrator will attempt to falsely claim that he or she was struck or injured through the negligence or unlawful driving of a road user, often making loud noises and crying out in fake anguish to attract the attention of onlookers as bystander witnesses.

The most common strategy is for the scammer to throw themselves in front of a moving (though slowly) vehicle and feign serious injury as if the driver had forcefully impacted them. With the dashcam factored in, these practices are exposed for the ridiculously pathetic attempts they are.

Some are seen writhing on a stationary car’s bonnet before rolling onto the ground supposedly unconscious.

Faced with this irrefutable footage, the authorities can only favour the defendant.

The Perfect Balik Kampung Companion!

In addition to capturing other important moments out on the road, the DDPAI Z50 should be on everyone’s shortlist for a high quality auto gadget, especially this festive season when so many of us will be on the road during the Balik Kampung rush.

Not only is it DDPAI’s flagship dashcam product with built-in GPS, integrated G-sensors, support of up SD cards up to 128GB in capacity, Smart Parking Monitoring, supercapacitor technology for an even more reliable power supply, and advanced NightVIS for superior low light performance, the Z50 - like every other model DDPAI offers - is designed to enhance every journey.

Enjoy amazing Ramadan deals and free gifts when you shop at DDPAI Official Malaysia store during the month of April. Also, make sure to drive safe on the road this Ramadan season with DDPAI!

Shop for official DDPAI products at your favourite online retailers now!

Shopee : https://bit.ly/42v1dUo

Lazada : https://bit.ly/3px6CWN


Hyundai, Kia To Invest RM 1.04 Billion In Grab

Of the many Malaysian exports we can be proud of, Grab is the latest and greatest making headlines around the world - or at least, within South East Asia. The most recent announcement is one by Hyundai Motor Group, which was that they plan to invest a whopping USD 250 million (or RM 1.04 billion) in Grab in order to establish a partnership to pilot EV programs across South East Asia.
Hyundai Motor Group includes both Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Motors Corporation, and both companies are interested in developing both EVs and EV infrastructure. They're kicking off the program next year in Singapore, as you would expect being the most developed nation within our region, and will be working with the government in order to push for a better charging network.
It's worth noting that Hyundai themselves have been invested in Grab since January, and for them this is merely an additional investment. In August, Grab announced a partnership with Singapore’s energy utilities provider, SP Group, to use SP Group’s public EV charging network for its EVs - which also explains why Singapore is the country of choice to get the ball rolling.
Grab has become quite a force to be reckoned with, after the exit of Uber in the last year or so, and have aggressively expanded within the region. As of now they have investors from a variety of industries, including Booking Holdings, Microsoft, Toyota, as well as global financial institutions like Citi Ventures and Goldman Sachs. Their total fundraising so far is USD 2.7 billion (RM 11.2 billion), and they are on track to hit USD 3 billion (RM 12.4 billion) by the end of 2018.


Special Edition Toyota GT86 Blanco Revealed For The UK Market

Toyota
 UK has announced a new special edition model of the GT86 will go on sale in July this year. Known as the Toyota GT86 Blanco, the car retains the base coupé model’s performance and handling with unique styling and equipment add-ons.
Priced at £28,500 (RM168,267), the GT86 Blanco’s body is finished in GT White Pearl paint with contrasting red and grey body decals running from the hood all the way to the rear boot lid. The same theme is applied to the side mirrors while the front lip and rear diffuser are highlighted in red.
The standard wheels are swapped out for new slim ten-spoke design 18-inch alloys with an anthracite finish and the
GT86
 name embossed.
Inside, the 2+2 seater coupé's sport seats now have full leather upholstery and come with a heater feature as well. As a sign to mark this car as a special edition model (if the exterior highlights aren’t enough), each car will feature its own numbered plaque on the centre console, indicating its place in the special edition production run.
Customers will also be able to specify their car with a nine-speaker JBL sound system and Toyota’s Touch and Go touchscreen-controlled multimedia and navigation package.
The UK spec
Toyota GT86
 is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder boxer petrol engine which outputs 200hp and 205Nm of torque, sent through either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission and to the rear wheels.


Review: 2016 Isuzu D-Max Z-Prestige 3.0L – Form Over Function

While most who opt for a pickup truck do so purely for the vehicle’s functionality, there is also a small group of buyers who simply want one for its looks and sheer road presence.
These are usually buyers who prioritise the aesthetic appeal of a 4x4 and don’t mind spending a bit more for cosmetic goodies, as opposed to those who simply want a workhorse, and refuse to pay extra for visual appeal.
And what we have here is something that would appeal to the former group of buyers - arguably the ‘loudest’ new pickup truck in the market in terms of aesthetics – the Isuzu D-Max Z-Prestige 3.0L 4x4.
Specifications of the Isuzu D-Max Z-Prestige 3.0L 4x4
Price: RM124,312
Engine: 3.0-litre, Variable Geometry Turbo System, direct injection, commonrail turbo diesel, water-cooled inline 4-cylinder
Max Power: 177PS @ 3,800rpm
Max Torque: 380Nm from 1,800-2,800rpm
Transmission: Five-speed automatic
Overview
Launched in October last year, the Z-Prestige is the range topping variant in the D-Max lineup, offered in three different colour themes - Urban Premium (Silky White Pearl), Adventure Rugged (Velvet Red Mica), and Street Rugged (Stallion Black Metallic).
Priced at RM124,312 OTR without insurance, the D-Max Z-Prestige, which is offered with 5-years or 150,000km warranty, goes against the likes of other high spec models like the Ford Ranger Wildtrak 3.2 (RM139,888), Toyota Hilux 2.8G (RM129,994), Nissan Navara VL 2.5 (RM120,800), Chevrolet Colorado 2.8 High Country (RM129,189), as well as the Mitsubishi Triton Adventure X (RM130,900).
Noteworthy features include a new front fascia which comprises new headlamps with integrated LED daytime running lights, restyled fog lamp enclosures, as well as a tweaked front bumper and grille design. At the back, there’s a new tailgate design with reverse sensor and camera offered as standard.
Inside, the D-Max Z-Prestige comes with a seven-inch touchscreen display with DVD, USB, AUX and Bluetooth connectivity, complemented by a new eight-speaker audio system. The list doesn't just end there as the high-spec model also gets a new e-Lumax Multi Info Display meter cluster.
Standard safety equipment levels have also been upgraded, whereby all variants come with the full complement of driving safety aids such as Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) and Hill Start Assist (HSA).
Exterior
Visually, the D-Max Z-Prestige is definitely one of the more radical looking pickup trucks in the market, thanks to the unique colour, the 18-inch wheels, the funky looking sports bar, and the coolest of them all; the rear spoiler.
Overall, the D-Max Z-Prestige is a handsome 4x4, and thanks to the striking colour, the spoiler, the roof bar, sidesteps, and the wheel design, it needs little modification. In fact, you can drive it straight to to any 4x4 jamboree and fit right in.
Interior
Upon opening the doors, greeting us inside the vehicle were plush black leather seats with red stitching, as well as the huge touch-screen on the dashboard.
On top of the features mentioned above in the overview, the range-topping D-Max Z-Prestige also gets automatic air-conditioning, steering wheel controls, as well as keyless entry and push start ignition.
On top of the gadgets, there is plenty of space to store things, a USB slot, an auxiliary port, HDMI connectivity, and also a 12V power outlet.
In case you're wondering how roomy it is, five individuals could sit comfortably without feeling claustrophobic even on journeys that lasted a few hours.
Although Isuzu’s intentions in wanting to make the D-Max Z-Prestige look as premium as possible became apparent the moment we opened the doors and set our eyes on the cabin, we noticed that there is still a generous dose of hard plastic in the cabin the moment we started fiddling around.
On top of that, we could hear the engine loud and clear while idling, and the road while driving, putting it behind some of its newer rivals in terms of cabin refinement.
Driving it
Driving the D-Max Z-Prestige felt like a journey back into the past. While newer trucks like the Triton, Ranger and Colorado have managed to achieve almost car-like level of refinement, comfort, and performance, the D-Max still has some catching up to do.
However, it is in no way inferior to any truck out there in terms of power and abilities, and remains one of the sturdiest, most capable workhorses in the segment.
Thanks to the 3.0-litre turbo diesel engine which kicks out 177 PS of output and 380 Nm of torque from as early as 1,800 rpm, there was more than enough power throughout our stint with the truck, even when it was fully loaded with four occupants and two mattresses on the load bed.
We did not test the D-Max off-road in this stint, but experience from last year's Borneo Safari challenge confirms its go-everywhere abilities to tackle mud, gravel, and everything in between.
Economy
After driving the D-Max Z-Prestige around for a total of three days in urban surroundings mostly, we observed a fuel consumption of 7.9-l/100km, which is a pretty decent figure for a pickup truck.
In fact, it is capable of travelling from Singapore to Bangkok with a full tank of fuel, as demonstrated in the last Isuzu Dura-Miles Challenge.
As economical as it is, a 3.0-litre engine translates to higher road tax (about RM1,600 in Peninsular Malaysia and RM900 in East Malaysia) compared to its rivals that are powered by 2.5-litre or 2.8-litre engines (less than RM1,300).
But it is not that bad as Isuzu has made it up by offering a 5-years/150,000km warranty for the D-Max.  So, that is saving quite a bit of cash, isn’t it?
Conclusion

In all, what we have here is an attractive, capable, powerful and economical pickup truck with a generous dose of features.
However, you can’t run away from the fact that the D-Max feels dated compared to a few of its competitors.
So, if comfort and refinement are what you are looking for, the D-Max Z-Prestige might not appeal to you but if you are all about looks and power, it might be what you would want.


Toyota Trademarks S-FR Name, Possible Name Of Next-Gen Supra?

On 28 May 2015, the
Toyota
 Motor Corporation filed a trademark for “Toyota S-FR” with the US Patent and Trademark Office under “automobiles and structural parts thereof”, further adding to the speculation that this will be the name christened for the all-new successor to the Toyota Supra (Mark IV, A80).

Filing for trademarks aren’t exactly rare occurrences as carmakers do them in order to reserve nameplates for future models or to preserve old ones. This one was reported by the
 Supra MKV
 forums (MKV here stands for Mark 5 Supra FYI).

I
n the United States, the Toyota 86 is referred to as the Scion FR-S where the name describes its platform:
F
ront-engine,
R
ear-wheel drive,
S
port. It has yet to be confirmed if Toyota plans to revive the Supra name or to simply reference it indirectly with the letter “S”. This newly trademarked name is merely a rearrangement of the letters and could mean one of two things:

First, this could be the name of the next-generation Toyota Supra as we’ve mentioned. Currently,
BMW
 and Toyota are involved in a joint sports car project venture where a concept from the Japanese car maker has been presented at several motor shows – the Toyota FT-1 (pictured here) which many consider to be the result of the collaboration aka the new Supra.

Second, this could be an all-new model altogether. As reported by
motoring.com.au
, Toyota is working on a mini-coupe (codenamed 69DZ) that will slot in below the 86. It is rumoured to feature a 1.5-litre engine and weigh in at around 980kg, which is 150kg more than
Honda’s S660 kei car
 while hovering around
Mazda’s
 all-new
MX-5
 (ND).

Whichever the case, we’ll have to wait until Toyota decides to provide more details on the Supra’s spiritual successor which is expected to make its debut at the 44
th
 Tokyo Motor Show scheduled to take place in end October later this year.


More Details Unveiled In The All-New Toyota Vios, Promises Much Better Comfort

At the recently concluded 2018 Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show (KLIMS 2018), UMW Toyota previewed the all-new Toyota Vios that is available in
three variants with prices estimated from RM 77,200 to RM 87,300
.
Among the key features in the all-new Toyota Vios is the much-improved comfort levels. Toyota claims the popular new sedan has better ride comfort thanks to the newly-calibrated shock absorbers and coil springs.
Apart from the suspension tuning, a more rigid bodyshell (through additional spot-welds) also improve the comfort levels and stability on both highways and cornering.
Toyota also says occupants will also take note of the quieter cabin. This was achieved through increased areas of insulation as well as usage of the noise-cutting front windshield and front side windows.
The video also has glimpses of the much disliked (or appreciated, depending on who you are asking)
 ultra-bright dual-rear fog lamps
 that first appeared in the previous model.
To recap, the all-new Toyota Vios continues to use the highly fuel-efficient powertrain pairing of the 1.5-litre 2NR-FE engine with the CVT-type transmission that has a manual mode function. The engine develops 107 PS and 140 Nm of torque and returns a fuel consumption of about 17 kilometres per litre under the UNECE R101 test cycle.
Standard features in the '1.5J' variant include 7 airbags, electronic stability control, automatic air-conditioning system, LED DRLs, Sport or Eco drive modes, and keyless entry with a push start/stop button.
The middle ‘1.5E‘ variant adds LED tail lamps, blind spot monitoring, touchscreen infotainment system with USB mirroring, panoramic view camera system, and a digital video recorder with lane departure warning and forward collision warning functions.
The high specification ‘1.5G’ variant receives niceties such as projector-type head lamps, 16-inch rims, leather seat upholstery, steering wheel shift paddles, upgraded audio with 6 speakers, and Optitron meters with a colour display.


Proton Clarifies Statement by PEKEMA

Proton has responded to an article regarding the issues faced by Malaysian Association of Malay Vehicle Importers and Traders (PEKEMA) members.

In the interview between PEKEMA President Datuk Zainuddin Abdul Rahman and Mingguan Malaysia, several difficulties were raised by its Proton dealers such as credit terms and timeline to upgrade their dealerships. This had led him to believe that some small sales dealers (1S) and vendors will eventually cease their business.

In a statement that clarifies the issues brought up by PEKEMA, Proton says that their dealers are encouraged to upgrade their outlets over a period stretching from 2018 to 2020.  Proton has
introduced a special scheme that offers support to dealers
 in the upgrading exercise together with additional margins on vehicle sales.

Currently, Proton’s 3S and 4S dealerships only represent 30% of their total dealership network, which is less than half of what the top 2 non-national brands offer based on Proton’s assessment.

Proton wants to increase more 3S and 4S dealerships to offer a better sales and after-sales experience, and the company plans to only sell the new Proton SUV at these locations at the end of the year.

With regards to credit terms, where PEKEMA President claims various charges and interest are levied to dealers who are unable to sell their stocks in 14 days, Proton has clarified that they are extending the period for up to 60 days with certain terms and conditions.

This is a special effort by Proton in order to help facilitate dealers to manage their cash flow and additional time to move their current stocks without worrying about their accounts being blocked.

However, with Proton’s tight financial situation, the company will be withdrawing the Payment After Registration (PAR) system which a total of RM650 million a year is allocated for financing its dealers. The company can no longer provide this assistance as it will affect its cash flow.

In the past, Proton dealers enjoyed a 4% margin based on a monthly volume of 40 units. The company has now revised the incentive scheme by lowering the threshold to encourage overall business growth, together with other incentive support such as quarterly incentives as well as on-ground activities.

Proton is also offering special packages to interested corporate customers, associations, organizations, and institutions but reiterated that dealers should focus on retail sales, as corporate sales only make up under 5% of total sales in 2017.


Review: W222 Mercedes-Benz S400h – Does It Still Have What It Takes To Lead?

The Germans call it the Sonderklasse (for Special Class). Socialists and idealists from the 99 Percent Occupy Wall Street Movement hate it, but Wall Street’s 1 Percent love it.
Depending on which side of the wealth gap you sit on, a Mercedes-Benz S-Class will invoke either resentment or respect. Since the first generation W116 S-Class rolled off Daimler’s Sindelfingen plant in Germany in 1972, the S-Class’ has been a very much coveted car among those who sit in the corridors of power. It's a car for those who believe in Machiavellian philosophy rather than that of St. Francis of Assisi.
Specifications for Mercedes-Benz S400h (W222)
Engine: 3.5-litre naturally-aspirated V6
Power (engine): 306 hp at 6,500 rpm
Torque (engine): 370 Nm between 3,500 – 5,250 rpm
Electric Motor: 27 hp (350 Nm)
Transmission: 7-speed torque converter automatic (7G-Tronic)
Safety: 8 airbags (including two Seatbelt airbags for rear passengers), ABS, ESC, Pre-Safe with Pedestrian Detection, Brake Assist Plus, blind spot monitor, 360 degree view camera, lane keeping assist
Price: RM598,888 without insurance
Origin: Locally-assembled at Pekan, Pahang
Seven years ago, an S350L was sold in Malaysia for over RM830,000. Today, the even higher range S400h sells for just under RM600,000. Yes, that is Barisan Nasional’s ‘Turunkan Harga Kereta’ manifesto working. If there ever was a social uprising of the working class against the elites, you know which car is responsible for it.
For the elites, the ‘S’ in S-Class might as well have stood for supreme. Every generation of S-Class, especially the legendary W126 generation model, has often been seen as the benchmark for any limousine.
Living up to that expectation is not going to be easy. This is 2017, where the S-Class no longer had to contend with just the BMW 7 Series. Today, the S-Class has to fend off a proliferation of limousines looking to launch a coup d'état against the monarchy of Mercedes-Benz. Even Daimler’s fellow from Stuttgart, Porsche now offers a Panamera that aims to do everything the S-Class does and then some more. There’s also Bentley’s Flying Spur, Audi’s A8 and Japan’s Lexus LS.
Closer to home, the nature of our tax structure means that only the locally-assembled BMW 740Le poses a credible threat to the S-Class’ dominance, but it’s not a threat to be taken lightly.
The BMW for one, offers a more sophisticated plug-in hybrid powertrain, packed within an ultra-lightweight Carbon Core chassis that allows it’s smaller 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine to out accelerate the S400h’s 3.5-litre naturally-aspirated V6 in the century sprint by 0.1 seconds.
It also offers more amenities and convenience features for the same asking price as the S-Class’ RM598,800, with features not available in the S400h - access to concierge services, an LED-lined panaromic glass roof that replicates the view of starry night, gesture control operated infotainment system, and most importantly – a tablet that allows the boss sitting behind to control all of the 7 Series comfort and convenience functions.
So where does that put the current generation S400h, now already nearing in its fourth year on the market? A new facelifted S-Class model has already been launched in Europe but don’t expect that new model to be here until mid-2018.
The nature of Malaysia’s ‘customised incentive’ for these so-called locally-assembled energy efficient vehicles (EEVs) means that Mercedes-Benz Malaysia will have to spend quite a bit of time negotiating with the government before they can launch the new model at more or less the current S400h’s price.
On paper, one can immediately make a quick comparison and conclude that the BMW, being the newer model on sale, is the better car to buy. Yes, price and value are not the main concerns for the S-Class’ target clientele but millionaires and billionaires don’t stay rich by putting their money in wrong places.
But does that mean that all you titled elites should strike off the S400h? Not so fast. Despite being an older model, the S400h still has a couple of tricks working in its favour.
Yes it might not be as technologically sophisticated as the 740Le but it’s debatable if all those added functions really matter to the S-Class’ clientele. After all, nobody has complained about the lack of gadgets in a Bentley Mulsane or a Rolls-Royce Ghost.
For many, having the tri-pointed star on the bonnet of their limousine as they barrel down the highway is enough to make up for the lack of features.
Between the BMW and the Mercedes-Benz, it is the latter that has a stronger road presence. The 740Le is akin to a passenger carrying cruise missile – technical and sleek, while the S400h has an expression of dominance with a hint of trained assassin.
For someone with the intention of launching a hostile corporate takeover, the guy stepping out of the S400h has already won the first step of intimidation, nevermind if he has to adjust his seats and window blinds via conventional buttons on the door rather than his BMW counterpart’s Samsung tablet.
Inside, the Mercedes-Benz is the one that is showing its age when compared to the BMW. Objectively, it is the BMW that offers a superior mix of expensive materials, with dashboard and seats wrapped in Nappa leather rather than regular leather in the S400h. The 740Le also has better positioned ambient lights, including soft lighting emitting from the centre B-pillar.
Against this crowd, Mercedes-Benz’s COMAND infotainment user interface is the weakest. It’s the least user-friendly among the German premium Big-3 brands. A BMW i-Drive’s setup is a lot more intuitive to use – push the knob left to go back and right for details. In the Mercedes-Benz, one has to alternate between using the rotary knob and a ‘Back’ button, while navigating between menus positioned on top as well as below the screen. Then again, this is something that will bother the chauffeur more than the owner.
The Mercedes-Benz also lacks telematics services, access to concierge services and vehicle App connectivity functions that the BMW has.
At a glance, the S400h doesn’t feel quite as expensive to sit inside as the 740Le, which is quite a sacrilegious thing to say for an S-Class, but it is what it is.
Having said that, what the S400h lacks in first impression, it makes up for it with its regal character and a superior execution of the finer details, even if it had to make do with materials that are one grade lower than the BMW.
The Mercedes-Benz gives you the impression that this is a limousine that is born and raised in a royal household. It doesn’t try to be luxurious because luxury is the only thing it knows. It’s a language of luxury that feels very genuine, very native, steeped in pedigree.
In the BMW, one gets the sense that it’s a car that while is more sophisticated, it’s the result of its makers sending the 740Le to a very expensive private tutor to teach it the finer manners of luxury living, before upgrading itself with a Masters in Engineering from MIT. However it can’t hide the fact that it is always secretly looking up to the S400h, no matter how accomplished it has become.
The S400h’s seat might not have Nappa leather, but the way it is sculpted and the fluffy soft pillow on the headrest comforts your tired neck and back in a slightly better way is a clear testament of Mercedes-Benz’s longer experience in building a better limousine, with or without fancy features.
Push a button on the door panel (it lacks a removable tablet like in the BMW) and the front passenger seat tilts forward, while the back seat reclines and extends itself outwards akin to a business class seat in an airplane.
The S400h’s ambient lighting also appears to work better than in the 740Le. The manner in which the LED light bounces off the cream leather surface somehow feels a tad more refined than in the BMW.
Sitting inside the S400h, you are removed from all the noises of the outside world, thanks to double-glazed windows. Even noises from the kapchai motorbikes next to you don’t get inside.
As for ride comfort, that’s a given. It’s an S-Class with Airmatic suspension fitted as standard. You can’t expect us to say anything other than adding superlatives to our description of comfort. Is the 740Le better? It’s too close to say but the old stereotype of Mercedes-Benz offering superior comfort, at the expense of poorer handling, while a BMW offering just the opposite, is no longer true. These days, a BMW, any BMW, rides just as well and in some cases, they are far more comfortable than a Mercedes-Benz while still retaining a superior handling.
As for handling, the S400h is very far off from the agile 740Le, but it’s a lot better than previous generation models. But who buys an S-Class and then complains about handling?
The hybrid drivetrain works very well, much better than the W212 generation E300 Bluetec diesel-electric hybrid, which jerks quite a bit in stop-go traffic. If you have to know, the S400h returned an average fuel consumption of 13.8-litre/100 km during our 140 km plus drive in the car, done mostly in urban traffic. That’s pretty impressive considering that a mid-size 4WD SUV will consume more or less the same amount of fuel under similar driving conditions.
In short, much has changed in the rivalry between the S-Class and 7 Series, but at the same time, much has also remained. The gap in ride comfort between the two has narrowed significantly, but the status quo remains – with connoisseurs still overwhelmingly voting for the S-Class.
The S400h is starting to show its age when parked next to the 740Le but the lack of gadgets has rarely been an issue for the S-Class. The way the classic car market appreciates S-Class models of any generation at a higher premium over any of its rivals is a strong testament of the evergreen appeal of an S-Class.


VIDEO: Biker That Raged Against Myvi Driver On KL-Seremban Highway To Be Charged

The emergence of a video shot from inside a
Myvi
 yesterday showed a disgruntled biker shouting expletives at the two
Perodua
 passengers caused a stir on social media. In fact, we at Carlist did not really know what to make of it as the blame was still a point of contention.
The biker, a 39-year old Briton, was riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle along the KL-Seremban highway, near the University Putra Malaysia exit at around 6.30pm. What exactly occurred is still unclear, but the motorcyclist accused the Myvi driver of almost knocking him off his bike and the passenger showing him an obscene gesture.
The situation got aggressive when the motorcyclist presumably hit his helmet on the windshield of the Myvi, cracking it. The Myvi's driver-side window appears to be broken as well, with pieces of glass seen on the driver's lap. Following that, he urged the driver to step outside for a physical confrontation after peppering the air with more expletives. The Myvi driver responded by repeatedly egging him on to follow him to get the matter resolved at the police station.
He was heard on the phone shortly after asking for a “police friend” because someone had just smashed his windshield. The motorcyclist’s wife, a 28-year old who only wanted to be identified as Marie, writes The Star, claims that she was following her husband at the time in a chauffeur-driven car behind.
She says that the Myvi did hit the motorcycle while trying to overtake another car, clipping the bike’s number plate. Marie continued that her driver forced the Myvi to pull over because the Perodua driver did not respond at first.
Also, she claims that while the video shows the case being rather one-sided, the couple in the Perodua also used abusive words toward them.
As it stands now, the suspect is expected to be charged at the Kajang majistrate’s court today for causing property damage and criminal intimidation, says Kajang OCPD Asst Comm Willey Richard.
Disclaimer: Viewer discretion is advised for the video below as it contains aggression and verbal exchanges laced with strong and profane language.


A Retrospective Into The Wild World Of Steering Wheels

Step into a car and there’s probably no way you could think of driving it except for a steering wheel. Nothing else comes to mind and there’s almost an immediate assumption that the most natural way to control this four-wheeled machine is with, well, another wheel.

Of course, this wasn’t always the case. Prior to the invention of the automobile, everyone got around on horseback or a carriage, pulled by an animal or several. This was the reality of personal transportation - you’d pull on the reins to tell this living, breathing domesticated beast which direction to move in.

Nothing was precise and almost totally void of
technology
. But even when the world’s first production car took form, the three-wheeled Benz Patent-Motorwagen was steered by a rudimentary pivot-style tiller that altered the direction of its single front wheel.

Origins

Historians are still in debate about which car was the first to employ the kind of steering wheel (in principle) we use to this day, but it is rather clear that the idea was imported from the maritime world. Ships already used a large circular wheel to control either a rudder or sails, so it stands to reason that such a concept could work even better on land.

Some credit the first production car to implement a steering wheel, connected to a rack and pinion system, to the Panhard 4hp from 1894. The original car’s tiller steer system was replaced with a wheel prior to the Paris-Rouen race - a successful experiment that resulted in most Panhard cars adopting it soon after.

Slowly but surely, the steering wheel proved itself to be a superior interface device between man and machine and over the next decade would completely render the legacy tiller system obsolete. They were still fairly simple, though, and usually made of wood.

In the earlier years of the automobile, passenger car steering wheels were very large too; with rather thin grips. This was done so that the driver could exert more steering force over a wider area and move the (heavier) wheels and tyres of the era more easily as hydraulically-assisted power steering would only start to become prevalent in vehicles after the 1970s.

The Wild West Of Design

With more technology being jammed into cars with each passing decade, even the mid to late 20th century car designers would need to consider new criteria when creating a suitable new steering wheel.

Trouble was, nobody really had landed on an ideal design, which led to some interesting experimentation, especially because there wasn’t all that much by way of regulation or standardisation. It wasn’t entirely directionless, either, as automakers considered aspects of ergonomics, premium materials, performance, and yes, safety.

Two spoke designs, one spoke, three, four were all being used. The Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing’s cramped interior meant that the wheel would need to be detached (F1-style) to allow the driver to get inside and situated, Saab explored their fighter-jet making roots and made a prototype 9000 sedan without a steering wheel at all but rather a weird centre-mounted joystick where the gear lever would be.

Settling Down

By the mid-1990s, however, the exuberance of finding new and interesting ways to steer a car gave way to uniformity and refinement. The carmaking world sort of fell into an unspoken agreement that a combination of small, ergonomically sound wheel, usually with height and rake adjustment, fit the needs of most drivers. Too much deviation from this norm might turn away customers outright.

Airbags were also becoming commonplace in higher end variants but, because of many cars sharing common parts, even ones without airbags fitted would have steering wheels that bore the design cost of its inclusion - observable as a thick (but hollow) centre stow area just aft of the wheel hub. It also happens to be the most obvious area to smack at when wanting to honk at something on the road. Perfect.

Where We Are Today

In actuality, the steering wheel hasn’t changed all that much in the last 100 or so years and their core principles have remained unshakable. It’s still called a steering ‘wheel’, after all. We’d hazard a guess that even a time-traveler from the 1940s would likely still be able to adapt pretty quickly to driving a car fresh off the factory floor in 2020.

That said, automakers are back to their old ways of experimentation, though it’s not nearly as scatterbrained - so long as the safety and ergonomic needs are met. A common change can be rounded up, ironically, as the rise in flat-bottom (or D-shape) steering wheels, which was earlier seen as a motorsports-inspired design but is now widely available even in some family cars.

Other new elements, also taken from the world of motorsports, include paddle shifters mounted on the wheel itself or the steering column. Steering wheels these days are also almost always incorporating some sort of 'multifunction' button layout for infotainment purposes, making it so the driver would rarely need to take their hands off the wheel itself to make an adjustment.

However, perhaps the most extreme proponent of this steering
wheel-centric
 concept is Ferrari, starting with the 458 Italia, who began integrating almost all stalk functions onto the wheel itself. From the wiper controls, to turn signal indicators, to low/high beam lights, to suspension control, to vehicle dynamics profiles.

It’s obviously a design heavily derived from Formula 1. Though some may call it a gimmick, it’s actually pretty impressive how much functionality they’ve managed to cram onto a steering wheel without overwhelming the everyday driver (once they’ve acclimatised) while still performing as a confidence-inspiring interface to precision control a supercar.

Of course, other manufacturers have gone in slightly different directions, for better or worse. In the main, different steering wheel designs and concepts are being used to define a brand identity and stand out from the competition over providing a purely objective advantage in vehicle control.

Let’s run through some of the more interesting ones seen in cars today:

2010 Audi R8 V10
-
A classic example of Audi's popular flat-bottomed steering wheels.

2019 Mercedes-AMG CLA 45
 -
They've got a strong brand identity. This wheel and dashboard design is so recognisable.

2019 Volvo XC40
 -
Again, like Mercedes-Benz, Volvo uses its steering wheel design as an identity piece.

2018 Peugeot 508 GT
 -
The French automaker designed this smaller wheel in tandem with their i-Cockpit dashboard concept. Unique indeed.

And who can forget KITT (Knight Industries Two Thousand). A futuristic vision, even though it was all fiction.


Isuzu Dissolves Partnership With Toyota, Continues Tie Up With Mazda

Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) and Isuzu Motors Limited (Isuzu) agreed today to dissolve their capital tie-up, with Toyota planning to sell its entire stake in Isuzu in the future.
The two companies signed a basic agreement in November 2006 to utilize each other's operational resources in the fields of development and production focusing on diesel engines, and to examine the feasibility of collaborative projects. At the same time, Toyota also agreed to obtain a stake in Isuzu.
With changes in the market environment prompting the companies to suspend some of the originally considered projects, and not much progress was achieved in other collaborative efforts, the two companies have agreed to re-examine the capital relationship based on the current business situation.
As much as this move will put to end any potential of joint development for the next Hilux or D-Max, the two companies intend to maintain their strong relationship through ongoing joint development projects related to basic technologies, and will remain open to the possibility of future collaboration.
On another note, Isuzu had also reached a basic agreement with Mazda Motor Corporation in 2016, which will see the next-generation Mazda BT-50 being supplied by Isuzu.
Isuzu and Mazda have developed a collaborative relationship for more than 10 years with Isuzu producing for Mazda trucks for the Japanese market.
This agreement has further reinforced the continuous long-term relationship between Isuzu and Mazda.


Land Rover Discovery Sport Now Comes With Ingenium 2.0L Engine – 240PS, RM379,800

Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia has announced the introduction of the updated Land Rover Discovery Sport with a new Ingenium 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine.
Paired with ZF’s nine-speed automatic transmission which sends power to the wheels via a four-wheel drive system, the Discovery produces 240 PS at 5,500 rpm and 340 Nm of maximum torque at 1,250 rpm.
The Discovery Sport’s 4WD system also features a Terrain Response system which allows the driver to select different driving modes depending on the surface the vehicle is on.
Performance wise, the Land Rover Discovery Sport is capable of doing the century sprint in 7.6 seconds and clock a top speed of 200km/h, while consuming a claimed 8L of fuel for 100 km.
Featuring lightweight aluminium chassis components the Discovery Sport comes with 5-seats as standard, but it is also configurable to 5+2 seating as an option, which is unique in this segment according to Jaguar Land Rover.
The suspension setup on the other hand comprises coil springs with steel lower control arms and aluminium suspension knuckles up front, while a compact multi-link axle is fitted in the rear.
While key exterior features include xenon headlamps with LED DRLs, automatic headlamps and wipers, a powered tailgate, and 19-inch alloy wheels, interior equipment includes the InControl Touch Pro infotainment system which comprises a HD 8-inch touchscreen and a 10-speaker Meridian premium sound system.
Besides that, there is a 5-inch colour TFT instrument cluster display, 7 airbags, 12-way powered seats with memory function, automatic climate control, leather upholstery, keyless entry and ignition, as well as GPS.
Priced at RM379,800 OTR without insurance, the updated Discovery Sport is offered with with a 5-years/150,000 km warranty, 5-years /65,000 km servicing, and 3-year Roadside Assistance.


JPJ Vehicle Ownership Certificate to replace Grant

Owners of new vehicles that are registered from June 1 (yesterday), those renewing their vehicles’ road tax, and those doing a vehicle transfer from now on will no longer be getting a Registration Card (RC)/ Grant of their vehicles. Instead, they will be receiving an online-based Vehicle Ownership Certificate (VOC).
According to the
Road Transport Department (JPJ)
 which made the announcement yesterday, this is an effort to further streamline and broaden the department's online services, as well as to make future transactions easier and faster for the public.
Similar to a grant, the VOC will carry all relevant vehicle and ownership details. However, JPJ says that the document will not be needed in physical form during renewal of road tax or changing of vehicle ownership as the details will be stored online and can be accessed any time.
According to JPJ, the full implementation of the new VOC system will be done in 3 phases:
Phase 1 (June 1st 2016)
VOC will be issued to new vehicles owners, and to those

doing a vehicle transfer
Phase 2 (September 1st 2016)
VOC will be issued to vehicle owners who renew their road tax, and to those who make amendments to their details on the grant.
Phase 3 (January 1st 2017)
All vehicle owners will be able to obtain a VOC to replace the grant on a voluntary basis by going to a JPJ office.
JPJ said that it is expecting all registered vehicle owners in the country to move from the RC to the VOC by January 2020.
Besides being an initiative to make things more efficient for themselves and owners, JPJ said that the Vehicle Ownership Certificate is also an effort to prevent car cloning syndicates.
Starting today, vehicle owners will be able to renew their VOC online and no longer have to queue up at JPJ offices.
Looking for a car? Find one at
Carlist.my
 today


Honda City Special Edition Launched With DVR And Built-in Toll Reader - RM75,955

Honda Malaysia today announced the introduction of the City Special Edition, fitted with features like the Digital Video Recorder and a built-in toll reader among others.
Offered in two colour options - White Orchid Pearl and Passion Red Pearl, the City Special Edition also comes with door visors and a trunk organizer.
While the DVR records real-time footages of the journey including rear view recording for all-round footage, the built-in toll reader which connects directly to the car’s battery, is ready for use once a Touch & Go card is slotted in without additional batteries.
Mechanically, there is nothing extra with the Special Edition City. Power stills comes from Honda’s 1.5L i-VTEC engine which is paired with a CVT transmission, producing 120 PS and 145 Nm of maximum torque.
That being said, the City has been the biggest sales contributor for Honda Malaysia, contributing 34% to the total sales for the company while maintaining its No.1 position in its segment from January to July 2019.
Commenting on the City Special Edition, Mr. Toichi Ishiyama, Honda Malaysia Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer said, “For many years now, the City has been the best-selling B-segment model in Malaysia. As a way to give more value to Malaysians who have been very supportive towards Honda Malaysia, we have decided to introduce a Special Edition City in conjunction with our Road to 900,000 th Unit Milestone Campaign.
Looking for a new Honda? Get the best deals
here
.


Volkswagen To Change Its Logo In Anticipation Of An Electric Future

It has been a rough few years for the Volkswagen brand. In the wake of their diesel scandal, the company has done fairly well to get back on track - even if that meant postponing full on model changes as many models in their range have had to extend their lifespans due to re-allocation of budget.
So it's about time they reinvent themselves. With full-on electrification on the horizon, Volkswagen is taking the opportunity to change their image and that starts with a new logo. Unlike other brands which have created electric sub-brands (i.e. BMW's i or Mercedes-Benz's EQ), Volkswagen is fully integrating the models within their brand image.
According to
Bloomberg
, the new logo is to be revealed next year - which coincides with Volkswagen's plans to aggressively roll out electric vehicles. It's a logo that will work equally well on smartphone screens as the cars themselves, an indication of how integrated technology is becoming.
There's 20 billion Euros (RM 96 billion) going into Volkswagen's electrification efforts. This means that the company has to pull out all stops to market these new products to a new generation of customers, in addition to their existing customer base. In the case of the latter, more traditional methods will work, but for the former they will have to take to social media platforms and various other outlets to garner attention.
To further tailor messages and marketing, there is talk of setting up regional marketing hubs as well which allows for region-specific approaches. The kind of customer one might encounter in South Africa is vastly different from that of South-East Asia (after all, South Africa kept producing the first-generation Golf for decades).


The Top 5 Cheapest Driver’s Cars You Can Buy

The term driver’s cars get thrown around a lot within the motoring sphere – such as to say, some cars are a little bit more special than others because they’re more rewarding to drive for people who appreciate the journey, just as much as reaching their final destination.

In my years as an automotive writer, I’ve come to understand a few traits that usually underscore a good driver’s car – a precise steering system, good suspension, great chassis balance, good brakes, and preferably with manual shifting transmission.

To summarize, one of the finest examples of a driver’s car, in my opinion, is the
Porsche Cayman GT4
.

However, a large majority of us, myself included, will likely never be able to afford the RM800k++ retail price tag for one, hence, are we destined to never sample this fabled genre of automobiles. Seemingly, the automotive equivalent of Led Zepellin’s Stairway to Heaven, the more enthusiastic of drivers always rave about.

At this point, I’m sure your thinking, but hey, what about a Subaru BRZ, a used Lotus Elise or even a BMW (E92) 335i – they’re "driver’s cars" too right? Yes, you’d be right, they very much are, but what if we wanted something two to three times cheaper, and preferably something that isn’t 25 years old requiring hard to find parts, or specialist repairs every other month?

The good news is, we found five cars that might still suit the bill. These are the Top 5 cheapest driver’s cars, arranged in descending nominal used value.

No. 5: Honda CR-Z 1.5L i-VTEC

First launched here in 2012, the CR-Z’s concept was revolutionary at the time – a hybrid that was fun to drive! And rightfully so, with a nimble chassis and zesty 1.5-liter engine (and some help from the electric motor) gave the CR-Z a superb power to weight ratio, which is only made better because you have a six-speed manual option to control the whole lot. Add to that, a boot that will swallow a road bike (with the rear seats reclined) and you pretty much have a car that does it all. Having fun is never going to be this green… or cheap. Pro tip: look for the facelifted 2013 and up CR-Zs with the newer 18.8 kW lithium-ion battery. Ask for full-service receipts prior to purchase.

No. 4: MINI Cooper (R50/R53) 1.6L

It’s hard to believe that the first-generation of the modern MINI Cooper, which was priced between RM160k and RM220k when new is now priced at just over RM20k. A quick check on the Carlist.my website reveals prices ranging from RM20k-RM30k for the (R50) MINI Cooper and between RM30k and RM45k for the (R53) supercharged Cooper S variant. For that money, you get evergreen hatchback looks, a cool interior, decent boot space, and one of the best front-wheel drive chassis out there. We would recommend the Cooper S, of course, coupled to a manual gearbox for maximum thrills, but the automatic gearboxes are decent as well. Get a thorough diagnostics done before pulling the trigger.

No. 3: Suzuki Swift 1.5L

The Suzuki Swift is a cult favourite amongst enthusiasts and grassroots motorsports drivers for its sublime handling, punchy and reliable engine, and great aftermarket support. Even superstar publications like Top Gear gave the Swift a 7/10 rating and called it “able and amusing”. Of course, you could splurge for the manual Swift Sport variant (which is excellent), but those are nearly twice what you’d pay for a decent second-generation Swift 1.5L automatic. Since we’re all about cheap and cheerful – a used 2nd-gen Swift with a good tyre and wheel package (and suspension if you want to go the extra mile) will do the trick. Be advised to get it checked by a competent mechanic first or take a friend who knows these cars well.

No. 2: Proton Satria Neo 1.6L

The Satria has built a history of being the cheap, sporty Malaysian car of choice for over two decades. Cool looks, frugal and dependable engines, a superb chassis for its age and a plethora of aftermarket support make it a popular choice amongst enthusiasts owners. The second-generation Satria Neo has been proven in both rally and circuit racing so you would be hard-pressed to find a car with more performance bang for your buck. With prices starting just over RM8k, there are ample choices for any budget, and not to mention, ride and handling that was refined by the boffins at Lotus. We’d recommend the newer R3 variants which offered improved refinement and a snazzy body kit.

No 1: Perodua Kelisa 1.0L

Here’s a challenge, ask any previous or current owner of the Perodua Kelisa if it’s a bad car. We can almost assure you there would be none. Cutesy looks that never seem to tire, beautifully packaged and decently practical, and amazing fuel economy are not even the best traits of the humble Kelisa. Add to that, beautifully weighted and sublime steering, a rev-happy 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine, and a chassis that just loves the corners – the Kelisa proves that you don’t need a big powerful car to have fun, sometimes small and simple are just as good. Even, legendary motoring journalist James May touted the Kelisa’s handling as the closest thing he has ever driven to the original MINI; that is good enough for us. With prices starts at just above RM4k, they are the price of a brand new iPhone, and ten times the fun!

Did we miss out on any, let us know in the comments section!


AD: KLIMS 2018: Countdown To A World Class Motoring Extravaganza

We are just days away from this year’s biggest motoring event. Organised by the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA), the Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show 2018, or KLIMS’18, returns for its 9th presentation from November 23rd to December 2nd, 2018 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Center (MITEC).
Nothing short of a world-class motoring exhibition, KLIMS’18 will showcase the latest and most high-tech metal, ranging from concept cars to a plethora of new car launches and previews, bikes, commercial vehicles, and aftermarket product exhibitions.
Themed “Beyond Mobility”, KLIMS’18 places a special emphasis on electrified vehicles as the global automotive industry calibrates to changing energy, environmental, and safety influences. Therefore, KLIMS’18 also provides a solid platform for manufacturers to showcase their powertrain, mobility, and connectivity technologies in addition to their exciting new models.
Of which, these are just some of the highlights of model launches and previews visitors can expect at KLIMS’18:
All-new Proton X70
All-new Toyota Camry
All-new Ford Ranger Raptor
All-New Nissan Leaf
New Mitsubishi Triton
All-new Toyota Vios
All-New Hyundai Santa Fe
All-New Lexus ES
KLIMS’18 also promises to ignite the public’s excitement by allowing them to get up close to with the concept cars such as the Toyota FT-1 and Lexus LS+.
Besides passenger vehicles, concept cars and cool two-wheelers – visitors can also check out a variety of commercial vehicle models that include trucks, prime movers, pick-up, panel vans, and buses. Among the highlights are Isuzu’s 1.9L BluePower turbodiesel engine, Tata Motors’ Super Ace small pick-up, and a one-of-its-kind 20-foot tall robot named “Tanker”, constructed by a local metal engineering company.
Our nation’s brightest minds, representing esteemed universities such as Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), and Universiti Pertahanan Malaysia (UPNM) will also be exhibiting their latest projects in automotive engineering and vehicle design.
Visitors to KLIMS’18 will also stand a chance to drive home a Toyota C-HR, a Honda City, and a Perodua Myvi. Every visitor entrance ticket purchased will stand a chance to win these exciting new cars
.
Entrance tickets are now available for online purchase at AirAsia Red Tix with attractive promotions. Each online purchase of a KLIMS’18 entrance ticket is entitled to one entry of fortnightly draws to win AirAsia return flights to Bangkok, Hong Kong, Bali, Taipei, Jakarta, and Shanghai. In addition, every online purchase of KLIMS ’18 entrance ticket is also entitled to the grand draw of an AirAsia return flight to Tokyo.
KLIMS’18 opens from 11am to 10pm on weekdays and 10am to 10pm on weekends. Ticket prices are as follows:
Adults - RM20 (weekdays) / RM25 (weekends)
Students – RM5 (weekdays and weekends)
Children 12 years and below – RM5 (weekdays and weekends)
Family Package for families with up to 5 children aged 12 and below - RM40 (weekdays)/ RM50 (weekends)
For more information, visit the
KLIMS’18 website
 or follow the
Facebook page
 to win giveaways and free tickets.


Time To Hit The Road This CNY - Miles Of Smiles Await, But Where To Go?

Chinese New Year is around the corner, time for celebration and family, you've got your annual leave allocation brought forward from last year, it's been almost two years since you've gone on a holiday or balik kampung, so the time is now!

It's time for a road trip!

With Covid-19 and its many variants still very much prevalent in society, flying is perhaps not the most advisable means of transport for your holiday. That leaves driving and if you think about it, it is the safest way to get to your holiday destination but just before you hit the jalan raya, check your tyres first, please! That way you’re ensured of
Miles of Smiles
...

Make sure they are:

At the right tyre pressure. Check for the right pressure based on load on the placard on the driver's door. Parked vehicles over a long period usually lose more tyre pressure than daily driven ones, especially with all the MCO's we've had.

Properly aligned. Alignment is something you should be doing at least once every 7000 kilometres to prevent premature and uneven wear of tyres.

Rotated. It is necessary because your tyres wear unevenly depending on the type of vehicle you have over a period of time, whether it is front-wheel or rear-wheel drive.

Balanced. If you suddenly feel like your car handles poorly or that there are some vibrations when you are driving, then it's best to get your wheel and tyre balanced.

Cleaned. Yes, cleaned! A simple tyre wash with soap and water will help remove dust and unwanted foreign bodies from your tyres.

Now that your tyres are checked, where to go?

Let's break that down into distance and you can then pick the distance you would like to cover and pick the destination, especially now that your tyres are in top condition!

1. 50 kilometres - Mirror Lake, Setia Alam Community Trail

Image credit: Syed Amir Syed Ali

This is a two birds with one stone trip. You get to enjoy a drive and then after that, you get to enjoy a hike especially after you’ve gorged on all that CNY good food! The hike itself is about an hour-long but one that is easily done by anyone with moderate fitness.

If you're unfamiliar with driving to Setia Alam, then make sure to research the directions to drive there a day earlier. Bring a power bank because it’s highly likely you’ll drain your phone battery with all the photos you’ll be taking!

Don't forget to also do a visual inspection of all four tyres to make sure they are roadworthy. While you're at it make sure they're all also properly inflated.

2. 100 kilometres - Sekinchan Paddy Fields

Green as far as the eyes can see, wide-open spaces to enjoy and relax in. The best thing about this road trip for the family is that Kuala Selangor is close enough for a very fulfilling seafood lunch/ dinner that won't burn a hole in your pocket.

Since the journey here will be mostly on the highway, it is important that your wheels are balanced and aligned to make for a stress-free drive.

3. 150 kilometres - Malacca

A city with lots to do, see, eat either with your significant other or your family. Go shopping at the Jonker Walk Night Market, take in the view of the entirety of Malacca from the Taming Sari Revolving Tower or just chill at one of the many restaurants or bars along the river.

Don't forget to check the condition of your spare tyre before you embark on this trip. Take it out of the car, perform a visual inspection and make sure it is inflated correctly. Better safe than sorry especially since tyre punctures can happen anywhere. If you're using an RFT then make sure your tyres are in good running order.

4. 200 kilometres - Royal Belum State Park (RBSP)

Image credit: myadventurehost.com

This is an adventure for those of you who want to unplug and bask in the sounds of nature in a 130 million-year-old rainforest. If you're quiet and lucky you'll be able to spot elephants, deer, wild boar and the rafflesia flower. There are three species of this 'lovely smelling' flower at RBSP.

The drive to RBSP is quite straightforward and easy but road conditions might not be the best depending on weather conditions. It would be prudent before you embark on this trip to get your tyres inspected at a Michelin Authorised Dealer to make sure they're ready for the trip.

5. 300 kilometres - Pulau Pinang

A favourite of ours and many other Malaysians, the drive up north Semenanjung Malaysia seems to be the de facto destination for a road trip. What's there not to love about Penang really? Good food, sea breeze, walkability, nightlife, Hin Bus Depot for arts - there's something for everyone in Penang plus you’ll get to enjoy the CNY atmosphere too!

Seeing as how most of driving up north will be on the highway, meaning highway speeds, it is important that you are aware of the max load of your tyres and its speed rating to make sure you don't overstress the tyres on this long drive. All this information can be found on the sidewall of your tyre. Seeing as Penang is also a favourite during CNY, please plan your trip accordingly.

If it so happens that if you find it's time to change your tyres, Michelin has an ongoing promotion till February 28, 2022. Check it out
here
!

Now that you've got some options of where to go for your CNY road trip and your tyres are in good working order, where are you headed to? Let us know in the comments!

If you’d like to read a more detailed article on how to care for your tyres, click
here
.

*For the purposes of this article, the start point is Kuala Lumpur and the distance is an approximation.


Mazda 2 Facelift Launched In Malaysia – RM 103,670

Of all the Japanese manufacturers on the market, Mazda has lofty aspirations. They’re seeking to move to a more upmarket segment, and their products heavily reflect this. All of their recent offerings have been both beautiful to look at and well specified, in addition to having exemplary ride and handling characteristics.

The latest model to be introduced here by Bermaz Motor is the Mazda 2 facelift which sees an assortment of additions that really bring the compact hatchback up to speed. The powertrain remains the same with a 114 hp, 149 Nm SkyActiv-G petrol engine that measures 1.5 litres in size. This is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that delivers power to the front wheels – again, nothing new here.

Styling revisions are very minimal with this facelift, with small nips and tucks at the front and rear and the largest distinction being the 16-inch alloy wheels in a different design. The interior is much the same as well in terms of overall styling, not that we’re complaining as it stands head and shoulders above the competition in its class.

The headline additions are items that have slowly made their way into various Mazda models over the months and years. G Vectoring Control Plus, or GVC Plus, now comes as standard in the singular variant on offer, as does Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. Trim materials have been changed to a blue-grey leather for the upholstery in place of the black leather of before.

Standard safety features include two front airbags, ABS with EBD, Traction Control with DSC, Emergency Brake Assist, Emergency Stop Signal and Hill Launch Assist. For budding young families, there is also ISOFIX to ensure child seats are mounted correctly and safely.

The price for all this is RM 103,670, inclusive of a five year, 100,000 km warranty and free maintenance package. Optional extras are an RM 500 charge for the Soul Red Crystal paint option, RM 1,270 for a navigation SD card for the infotainment system, and RM 1,900 for safety film tinting. All prices and specifications are identical for both the sedan and hatchback variants of the Mazda 2.


Jaguar Creates The Most Beautiful EV That Ever Will Be

Enzo Ferrari called it “the most beautiful car in the world”, seen by the world’s eyes for the first time at the 1961 Geneva Motor Show - Malcolm Sayer’s finest work was both contemporary art and futuristic spaceship. 56 years on, the Jaguar E-Type remains a thing of inimitable beauty and now, quite possibly the most beautiful electric vehicle that will ever turn a wheel.
Dubbed the Jaguar E-Type Zero – this one-off creation (for now) is based on a 1968 ‘Series 1.5’ Jaguar E-type Roadster but features a cutting-edge electric powertrain, built by the boffins at Jaguar Land Rover Classic Works.
An all-electric powertrain developing 220kW has been specially designed for the E-type Zero with some borrowed tech and components from the upcoming full-EV I-Pace SUV. It’s also quicker than an original E-type, completing the 0-100km/h dash in 5.5sec, about one second quicker than an original 'Series 1' E-type.
The E-Type Zero’s lithium-ion battery pack has been manufactured to the same dimensions, and similar weight, to the XK six-cylinder engine used in the original E-type.
The new 40kWh battery pack sits in precisely the same location as the XK engine. The electric motor (and reduction gear) lies just behind the battery pack, in the same location as the original gearbox. A new prop shaft sends power to a carry-over differential and final drive. Total weight is 46kg lower than the original E-type.
The E-Type Zero is based on a fully-restored roadster model, which, apart from its 21st-century powertrain and modified instrumentation and fascia (inspired by the original) - remains true to its original specification. LED headlights are also used to achieve better energy efficiency.
The XK six-cylinder engine was made from 1949 until 1992 and was fitted to nearly all iconic Jaguar models of that period, including the E-type, XK120, Mk2, and XJ6. The new electric powertrain could be used in any of these vehicles.
By retaining the weight and dimensions of the original engine and transmission meant the rest of the car’s structure – suspension, brakes remain like the original to simplify the homologation process. It also means the original engine can be reinstalled at any point.
Weight distribution remains unchanged hence Jaguar claim, the E-type Zero will drive, turn and stop like a contemporary E-Type.
Tim Hannig, Director, Jaguar Land Rover Classic adds, “Our aim with E-type Zero is to future-proof classic car ownership. We’re looking forward to the reaction of our clients as we investigate bringing this concept to market.”


2018 All-New Peugeot 508 World Debut – Radical Redesign, New Petrol Engines

Seeing as how pictures of the all-new 508 D-Segment sedan has been widely circulated online, ahead of its intended Geneva Motor Show debut, Peugeot has released full details of the new 508 model, which sports a radical new design, new engines, and a substantial leap in technology and build quality.
To create a unique identity for its new D-segment sedan, which Peugeot explains has been a stagnant market segment, amidst the current appetite for SUVs – designers opted to move away from the conventional boot-lid, four-door shape and towards a five-door fastback coupé-saloon body style.
In terms of dimensions – the new car measures 4.75 meters, 8 cm less than the predecessor and some 11 cm less than
Volkswagen’s Arteon
, making it among the most compact saloons in its class. The width, at 1.84 meters is 2 cm wider than the outgoing model, and the new car also sports a low-silhouette, measuring just 1.40 meters in height, some 6 cm less than the predecessor.
This low-built body structure is made possible by inclusion frameless doors, which Peugeot claim does not sacrifice headroom.
The front and rear overhangs have been reduced in size to improve agility, both on the road and when manoeuvring. The wheelbase – at 2.79 meters – has been shortened by 2.4 cm to maintain a level of practicality.
At the front the Peugeot 508 takes its cues from the Instinct Concept cars: the front headlights are full-LED items, which intersect with vertical opalescent LED daytime running lights. Spanning the rear end is a glossy black horizontal strip, as seen on newer models such as the
3008
, flanked by full-LED rear lights.
The Peugeot 508 is underpinned by the company’s EMP2 platform, which achieves a weight-reduction on average, of 70 kgs less, compared to the previous model. Peugeot also implemented a new body-welding technique which is strengthened with (24 meters of) structural adhesive, to provide greater body rigidity and acoustic insulation.
There are two new petrol engines and four diesel engines offered, each of which is compliant with 'Euro 6.c' regulations. The two petrol engines are based on the 1.6-litre turbocharged engine, and offers two power output levels, dubbed PureTech 180 and 225, although official power and torque figures have yet to be released.
The four diesel variants likewise are based on the company’s 1.5- and 2.0-litre turbodiesel “Blue HDi” family of engines. Depending on the market: Blue HDi 130, 160, and 180.
With the exception of the BlueHDi 130, which is also offered with a manual six-speed, the rest of the variants are fitted with the new eight-speed ‘EAT8’ 8-speed automatic which was co-developed with Aisin.
A Plug-In Hybrid petrol drivetrain is also in development for the 508, which is slated to go on sale in Q4 of 2019.
On the inside, the Peugeot 508 features the latest version of the Peugeot i-Cockpit, which is highlighted by the new compact steering wheel, large 10-inch wide HD touch-screen and head-up display unit with a 12.3-inch digital screen.
The interior also features a ‘wide-opening’ panoramic sunroof and a premium audio system by Focal.
The Peugeot 508 also includes the i-Cockpit Amplify system, which augments the car’s ambient settings, such as the lighting, audio and seat massage functions to offer greater comfort to passengers.
The i-Cockpit Amplify system also controls the car’s driving modes and suspension setup for variants that are equipped with electronic suspension.
The 508 also comes packed with the company’s latest driving aids. The common array of Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring system and Traffic Sign Recognition is further updated with Active Safety Brake which works up to 140 km/h, and a Night Vision system, a first for the segment.
The Night Vision system uses an infra-red camera to detect living beings, within a 200-250 meter range in front of the vehicle in low-visibility conditions.
In terms of connectivity, the new Peugeot 508 offers MirrorLink, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
The new Peugeot 508 will be produced in the Mulhouse plant in France, while the French sites of Trémery and Douvrin will provide the powertrain.


Opal Auto Mart, EWP Services Merge Into Opal Warranty - Malaysia’s Largest Automotive Warranty Provider

There’s a lot of uncertainty surrounding Opal Auto Mart, one of the largest automotive warranty providers in the country, especially with regards to the growing grey import market. But Carlist.my has some insider knowledge that should quash any queries that might surround the matter. And it’s good news: Opal is still around, and actually it’s getting stronger.
With the acquisition of EWP Services - another automotive warranty provider - and Opal Auto Mart by the One Auto Group, the two merged brands will be known as Opal Warranty, with a combined network of workshops across Malaysia totalling nearly 200, making it the largest warranty provider and administrator in Malaysia.
Of course, current warranty programs for both these companies will upheld and also merged over time, while maintaining their licenses and validity but henceforth handled by the newly expanded Opal Warranty operation.
According to David Lee, Opal Auto Mart’s Chief Operating Officer, the acquisition and merger will provide the momentum needed to branch out into the regional market as well, providing warranty programs for cars in Malaysia’s neighbouring countries.
We’ll have more on this as the official announcements follow.


Diskaun Saman 50% Pada 30 Julai Sempena Hari Polis Ke 215

PDRM
telah mengumumkan
diskaun
 50% saman trafik pada 30 Julai 2022 bersempena dengan Hari Polis ke-215 bagi tahun 2022.

Walau bagaimanapun pengurangan saman itu hanya ditawarkan di menerusi program
Road March 2022
 yang bakal berlangsung di Dataran Merdeka dari jam 9 pagi hingga 6 petang pada 30 Julai ini.

Diskaun Saman 50%

Diskaun
saman
yang ditawarkan ini tidak melibatkan semua jenis saman trafik, sebaliknya hanya melibatkan saman-saman terpilih sahaja seperti program diskaun saman sebelum ini.

Berikut merupakan antara jenis saman-saman yang dikecualikan daripada menerima diskaun:

Saman membabitkan kemalangan

Saman berstatus waran tangkap

Saman memotong di garisan berkembar

Saman tidak mematuhi lampu isyarat merah

Saman memotong secara bahaya/potong barisan

Saman menggunakan lorong kecemasan

Kesalahan yang dikategorikan tidak boleh kompaun (NC)

Saman berstatus perbicaraan

Saman kesalahan berkaitan kenderaan berat

Saman ubah suai ekzos kenderaan

 Selain dikaun saman trafik 50%, program
Road March 2022
 juga bakal menyajikan pengunjung dengan aktiviti menarik dari PDRM pameran asset-aset PDRM, persembahan motosikal PDRM, persembahan dari Unit Payung Terjun 69 Komando dan banyak lagi.


Tesla’s Singapore Return Almost Complete, Model 3 Configurator Now Live

American EV maker Tesla has had a bit of a strained relationship with the Singaporean market as its brief official presence on the island nation ended with a quick retreat back in 2011. Back then, the company still had a relatively small footprint in the automotive world with just the original Roadster to show off.

Unfortunately, the country’s Economic Development Board deemed the Lotus Elise-based EV ineligible for the various tax breaks and incentives that would have made the sports car a far more attractive buy. Obviously, Tesla has grown plenty since then and is now ready to take a bite out of the Southeast Asian region again, starting with Singapore.

Following chatter of a triumphant return, there’s now an official ‘SG’ version of the Tesla website, pretty much putting
any rumours to rest
. While there are some missing chunks, a large portion of the site is working as it should, even going so far as to let you spec your own Model 3. Configurators for the
newest Model S and Model X
 have yet to be added.

Singaporean buyers can choose between two variants of the company’s entry-level EV starting with the Standard Range Plus at SGD$112,845 (estimated price excluding COE). This nets you a single-motor rear-drive configuration with a 54kWh battery. Range is rated at 448km according to WLTP standards -
which is plenty
 to cover an island about 700 square kilometres in size - with a 0-100km/h sprint time of 5.6 seconds and a top speed of 225km/h.

For SGD$154,815 (again, excluding COE), Tesla will sell you the range-topping Model 3 Performance. Battery capacity rises to 75kWh and the car now uses dual electric motors for propulsion, delivering a WLTP rated range of 567km, a 0-100km/h sprint in 3.3 seconds, and a top speed of 261km/h.

Though these prices may sound very steep to us, they’re much less than what parallel importers have been getting away with charging Singaporean buyers in the absence of an official presence by Tesla. Model 3 prices, according to local observers, should even equate to the approximate cost of owning a Toyota Camry.

The Model 3 Performance also comes with a lowered suspension, 20-inch wheels, and performance brakes alongside the Premium Interior package which adds a
premium
 audio system, plusher cabin materials, 12-way power adjustable heated front seats, and heated rear seats among other upgrades.

Both variants are fitted as standard with the Tesla Autopilot system which includes a number of driver assistance and active safety features such as Autonomous Emergency Braking and Blind Spot Monitoring. However, for an additional SGD$11,500, buyers can add ‘Full Driving Capability’ to their cars to perform Auto Lane Change, Autopark, and Summon functionality, though a wider repertoire of capabilities will be added later: full Autopilot navigation, auto drive on city streets.

The Certificate of Entitlement would add a considerable amount to the grand total, but we if ignore that, starting prices for the Model 3 would roughly equate to RM344k for the Model 3 Standard Range Plus while the Performance variant would be around RM472k. That being said, Malaysia does have its own
idiosyncratic tax
 structures
and automotive policies
 to balloon that figure up nicely, so this is still an apples to oranges comparison.

Singapore is an obvious market where Tesla can thrive and we can expect some aggressive moves to divide and conquer. Though the configurator estimates that vehicle deliveries will take between 12-14 weeks, it’s not clear yet whether this timeline applies to orders placed right now or when the site ‘officially’ goes live.