Will That Long Wheelbase G28 BMW 3 Series Come To Malaysia?

They're not commonly seen outside of China, but long-wheelbase models may be the next big thing in ASEAN.

Launched in Thailand just last week was the BMW G28 3 Series - also known as a long-wheelbase (LWB) version of the
G20 3 Series
 that we're all familiar with. Now, this may be a strange concept - most people only know BMW to make long-wheelbase variants of the 7 Series with their Li models, but not for their more compact sedans. That being said, it's a pretty common thing in China to stretch models for better interior space and legroom.

Part of it is that cars are still pretty expensive propositions even for the extremely developed Chinese market. Therefore even mid-range luxury models get the treatment, and for a long time, it was pretty isolated to just the Chinese market. Things like stretched
Volkswagen Tiguans
,
BMW 5 Series
, Audi A6s, and
Mercedes-Benz E-Classes
 were forbidden fruit. Now it seems that the concept is making in-roads in other markets.

India has also taken up the stretched BMW 3 Series, and that's unsurprising considering something like a
Toyota Corolla
 is regarded as the car for CEOs, while luxury vehicles are limited to only the ultra-rich. The G28 3 Series LWB sits at 120 mm longer than a regular G20, with about 110 mm of that being in wheelbase increase. Legroom increases by 43 mm, while the rear door apertures are 110 mm longer.

While this is a significant increase over the standard G20, it does seem to slot firmly between the dimensions of the 3 Series and 5 Series of this generation. It would be an interesting choice for prospective owners of 5 Series to look at the 3 Series instead, but generally speaking, the demographics and overlap aren't quite as straightforward as one would expect.

The 5 Series buyer isn't looking to buy a top-spec or large-format 3 Series, because the 5 Series name in itself brings prestige. From a pricing standpoint, in Thailand, the sole 330Li M Sport goes for 2.899 million baht, or RM 391,535. That's roughly RM 50,000 more than a regular G20 320d or RM 10,000 more than the range-topping 330e M Sport PHEV.

In contrast, a 330i M Sport - the range-topper here, goes for RM 280,680 - while an entry-level 520i Luxury goes for RM 311,980. That difference in price means that the 330Li M Sport would be placed well into 5 Series pricing, and that just doesn't make sense for a buyer to take up in our market with our particular conditions. Funnily enough, however, the 330 Li M Sport is made in Malaysia.


Second Generation Lexus CT200h Could Arrive This Year

Lexus first introduced the CT200h back in 2010, subsequently giving the model a facelift in 2013.
Earlier, we believed that Lexus would replace the CT200h with an entry-level SUV. However, that may not be the case as a report from
u-car
 claimed that development work is well on the way. The new model could make a debut this year.
A senior Toyota staff told
Autovisie
 that the next generation Lexus CT200h will utilize the Toyota TNGA, similar to the fourth generation Toyota Prius. On top of that, the upcoming Lexus CT200h is also expected to utilize the 1.8-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine and electric motor combination from the Prius. The Prius's e-CVT is also slated to send drive to the front wheels on the new CT200h.
The outgoing Lexus CT200h utilize the third generation Toyota Prius' powertrain and Toyota's MC platform.


Banjir: 5 Langkah Untuk Tuntut Insurans Tambahan Bencana Alam – Peril Khas

Pengambilan perlindungan tambahan bencana alam semula jadi atau dipanggil Peril Khas dalam polisi insurans kereta anda merupakan cara paling berkesan dalam
persediaan menghadapi banjir
.

Banjir yang terburuk
 yang berlaku di Selangor baru-baru ini telah menyedarkan banyak pihak tentang kepentingan mengambil insurans Peril Khas ini.  Meskipun anda mengambil
insurans
 komprehensif yang menyeluruh, namun ia tetap tidak akan membayar sebarang pampasan atau ganti rugi kepada anda jika kenderaan anda rosak akibat bencana alam.

Hanya Peril Khas yang memberi perlindungan kepada kereta daripada bencana alam seperti banjir, gempa bumi, tanah runtuh, tanah gelincir, taufan dan sebagainya. Jika anda telah mengambil perlindungan tambahan ini, anda boleh menuntut ganti rugi terhadap kerosakan yang berlaku pada kenderaan anda menerusi cara-cara berikut:

1. Hubungi Pihak Insurans

Pertama sekali, hubungi pihak insurans anda dan maklumkan kepada mereka tentang situasi anda. Maklumkan kepada mereka bahawa anda ingin membuat tuntutan Peril Khas akibat banjir. Jangan sesekali cuba untuk menghidupkan enjin kereta pada waktu ini meskipun
air yang menenggelami kereta
 ketika banjir lalu sudah pun surut.

2. Kumpul Bukti Dan Dokumen Yang Diperlukan

Kemudian, jangan cuci kereta lagi buat masa ini. Sebaliknya, ambil gambar kerosakan yang berlaku pada kereta anda sebagai bukti kerosakan. Kemudian, sediakan beberapa dokumen dan maklumat yang dikehendaki seperti berikut:

Lokasi, masa dan tarikh kereta ditenggelami banjir

Ambil gambar kerosakan sebagai bukti

Sediakan salinan lesen memandu pemilik kereta

Sediakan salinan kad pengenalan pemilik kereta

Sediakan salinan geran kereta

Sediakan salinan polisi insurans

Butiran/dokumen sokongan yang menjelaskan kerosakan kereta (sekiranya ada)

3. Buat Laporan Polis

Dalam urusan tuntutan insurans, laporan polis amatlah penting. Di bawah Akta Pengangkutan Jalan 1987, laporan polis perlu dibuat dalam tempoh 24 jam bagi memudahkan urusan tuntutan. Walau bagaimanapun, usah risau jika anda tidak sempat untuk membuat laporan polis dalam tempoh 24 jam yang diberikan memandangkan banjir ini merupakan satu bencana alam. Pasti ramai yang sibuk dengan usaha pembersihan mahupun masih terperangkap di pusat perpindahan sementara. Kalau keadaan mengizinkan, segeralah membuat laporan polis bagi mempercepatkan urusan membaik pulih kereta.

4. Serahkan Borang Tuntutan Dan Segala Dokumen Sokongan Kepada Syarikat Insurans

Setelah selesai mengumpulkan segala dokumen yang diperlukan, serahkan dokumen tersebut pada syarikat insurans anda untuk tindakan lanjut. Pastikan segala maklumat yang diberikan adalah sahih bagi mengelakkan sebarang masalah ketika tuntutan dibuat. Pihak insurans akan memaklumkan kepada anda tempoh masa yang diperlukan bagi memproses tuntutan anda.

5. Hantar Kereta Ke Bengkel

Kemudian, hantar sahaja kereta anda ke bengkel yang berada di bawah naungan syarikat insurans anda. Senarai bengkel panel yang berdekatan di kawasan anda boleh didapati daripada pihak insurans anda.

Anda juga boleh mendapatkan khidmat trak tunda secara percuma daripada syarikat insurans anda untuk membawa kereta ke bengkel. Jadi tak perlulah mengada-ngada nak hidupkan enjin kereta yang dah ditenggelami air itu kerana dikhuatiri akan menyebabkan lebih banyak kerosakan berlaku pada kereta.

Sekian saja langkah-langkah yang perlu dilakukan bagi membuat tuntutan insurans bencana alam ini. Bagi mereka yang masih belum mengambil insurans tambahan bencana ini, anda dinasihatkan untuk berbuat demikian kerana bencana alam seperti banjir besar ini merupakan sesuatu yang berada di luar jangkaan.

Kebiasannya, harga bagi perlindungan ini ialah 0.5% daripada jumlah yang diinsuranskan. Tetapi ianya mungkin berbeza mengikut pengendali takaful dan syarikat insurans. Sebagai contoh, jika jumlah diinsuranskan bagi kenderaan anda adalah RM50,000, anda perlu membayar sebanyak RM250 setahun. Anda amat digalakkan untuk menambah perlindungan ini terutamanya jika ada menetap di kawasan yang berisiko untuk banjir.


5 RM50,000 Used Cars You Should Consider!

These cars have never lost its charm, in fact, it has probably gained some through its used price reduction. We list 5 cars for RM50,000 or below that you should consider!

While some cars lose their charm as they get older, some just seem to be able to maintain their mojo. Many factors affect this. Things such as design, cult following, dependability, and price affect its ability to stay in demand.

Used cars, particularly around the RM50,000 mark, don't really offer new age advanced safety systems, modern coloured infotainment systems, or even 100% dependability. Still, what it lacks in modern tech and 100% reliability, they do make up for it with personality.

Whether you're shopping for a new daily driver or a weekend project car, these cool used cars under RM50k are some of the best options out there when you're looking to find the most personality for your ringgit.

Honda CR-Z

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, an agile chassis and zesty 1.5-litre engine (with 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 of it. 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 before purchase. Replacement batteries are not that expensive, and will probably set you back around RM4k. Factor this into the purchase price, and you shouldn't be disappointed.

Volvo V60 T4

Volvo and the wagon body shape go hand in hand like Ikea and the modern furniture. The brand truly galvanised the form factor of the wagon, which is probably why the first-generation
V60
 still looks up to date - that is, until you put it next to the super rare second-generation V60, of course. It was first launched in Malaysia in 2012 and was offered in either a base-spec T4 or top-spec T5.

Even though the T4 is labelled as a base spec car, it still came with features such as a 5-inch integrated colour screen infotainment system, blind spot information system (BLIS) and active bending lights (ABL). Although it only packs a 1.6-litre engine, the Volvo V60 T4 pushes out a respectable 180hp and 270Nm of torque, which does give the car some hustle. Replacement parts are not as cheap as Japanese cars, but thankfully, they are built to last.

Kia Optima K5

When the legendry Audi TT designer Peter Schrier moved over to KIA from Audi, one of the first cars he designed was the third generation
Kia Optima
. When Peter designs a car, it usually is a timeless design, and when you pair that with some robust Kia engineering, you get a great looking car that will last. The Kia Optima was first launched in Malaysia in 2012.

It really was one of the first KIA cars that grabbed buyers attention just from its design standpoint. It's exterior is sleek, sporty and handsome, while its interior really did make you feel like you were in an Audi. It came with phone connectivity and a great sound system, which was rare for a car around its price range. The engine is a bit rough when you give it the beans, but apart from that, it is reliable and smooth. The low profile tyres probably helped with its above-average handling and never really compromised on its comfort.

BMW X1 E84

The first-generation
BMW X1
 is a rear-wheel-driven half wagon half crossover type car. It used the same platform as the e90 3-series and really did present buyers with a unique and different type of car at the time of its introduction. It has quite a few engine options, including a naturally aspirated petrol four-cylinder, turbocharged petrol four-cylinder and a turbo-diesel four-cylinder. It can also be had in S-Drive, which meant it was only rear-wheel driver, or X-drive, which meant it had all-wheel drive.

Although it might not look like it, it was typically BMW and was fun to drive plus offers more practicality than the 3-series it was based on. The E84 is probably the only car of its kind, as its competitors all had front-wheel drive, which BMW also adopted later on with its successor. Common issues with the car are also typically BMW, which means you'd get some oil leak and Vanos problems at some point. Luckily they are not hard and relatively inexpensive to fix.

Land Cruiser Cygnus

An expat favourite, the
 Land Cruiser Cygnus
 is a JDM market Land Cruiser that offers Toyota's famed reliability with big SUV practicality. It was the last J100 Land Cruiser variant before the J200 replaced it. It was also the first time Toyota introduced a V8 engine into the Land Cruiser lineup. The 2UZ-FE V8 engine provided drivers with a smooth delivery of power which is essential in a car that is supposed to be a luxurious SUV.

The powertrain is mostly trouble-free, but the weak point of the car is its front suspension. If you're looking for a spacious and luxurious family cruiser with a big and smooth V8 engine underneath the bonnet, then the Cygnus might just be for you. Expats love the SUV for its reliability and touch of luxury, especially considering that the other option is a Perodua Myvi. If you feel like you can put up with the RM4k road tax every year, then by all means, because this is probably a better alternative to an old Range Rover.

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

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

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

Get your latest
new car promotion
 here also.


Mitsubishi Owners Are The Most Satisfied, Says J.D. Power Malaysia

Consumer insights, advisory services, and data analytics specialists J.D. Power have announced the results of the 2019 Malaysia Customer Service Index (Mass Market) Study, which states that Mitsubishi owners are the most satisfied with the after sales services that come with their vehicles, followed by Toyota, and Mazda owners.
According to J.D. Power, the study was based on responses from 2,644 vehicle owners who received delivery of their new vehicle between February 2016 and June 2018, and took their vehicle for service to an authorized dealer or service centre between February 2018 and June 2019. The study was fielded from February through June 2019.
Besides measuring the overall service satisfaction among owners by examining the dealership performance, the study also measures customers’ likelihood to recommend their vehicle brand to others.
And based on all the measuring, responses, and what not, the study shows that Mitsubishi ranks highest in overall satisfaction with a score of 791 (out of 1,000). Ranking second is Toyota with a score of 788, followed by Mazda at third with a score of 785.
The top 3 brands aside, below is how the other marques rank in the study:
"As sales trends are flattening, dealers are putting in more effort to enhance customer service experience,” said E-Ling Cheah, Country Manager for Malaysia at J.D. Power.
“Though there are improvements in the overall service experience, it will not be fully realised until areas such as time management improves. Dealers must keep in mind that growth is not always linear; consistent and continuous efforts are critical to further boost customer satisfaction.”


BMW Malaysia’s Child Seat Subsidy Program Opens For Registration

In an effort to accelerate the adoption of child car seats, BMW Malaysia, through a subsidy programme as part of the BMW Safety 360 initiative, collaborated with Childline Foundation and Safe ‘n Sound to offer 150 units of infant carrier car seats at a subsidized price of RM100 each.

This is in line with the Malaysian Transport Ministry’s move to enforce the usage of child car seats starting January 2020. To encourage the adoption of child car seat usage, drivers will not be penalised for the first six months of enforcement but will receive warnings to install the seats.

The rear-facing infant carrier car seat which BMW Malaysia and Safe ‘n Sound will be offering at RM100 each, usually retails at RM199, and can be used from birth to 13kg. It also carries the ECE R44-04 certification.

Parents who are interested can register for the subsidised infant carrier car seat at www.safensound.com.my/pages/child-car-seat-subsidy-programme from now until 15th December 2019.

Those eligible for the subsidy will be notified, after which a payment of RM 100 must be made prior to the pick-up of the car seat.

Harald Hoelzl, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia said, “With only 30% of drivers using child car seats for their children, it became more imperative for us as automakers to press on for child safety, regardless of the challenges we encounter in the fight for its education and accessibility.

It is encouraging to see the Ministry of Transport take a definite step into making child car seats mandatory in the year to come, but at the same time, recognise that there are parents who may have limited access to them – therefore providing tax breaks and reduced excise fee for child car seats. In support of that, we are now bringing the subsidy programme online to make infant carrier car seats accessible to households with income less than RM 3,000 a month.”


DBKL Will Tow Away Cars This June

DBKL to start towing away cars along Jalan Kiara 1, Mont Kiara starting from June.

One of the most annoying things that a resident can face is when motorists park indiscriminately in front of your home - which is why DBKL (Kuala Lumpur City Hall) is announcing that starting from June, towing operations will roll out along Jalan Kiara 1.

Why does DBKL want to tow away cars?

DBKL Enforcement director Osman Ismail said operations to tow away vehicles would start next month to address the problem of vehicles parking there illegally.

“DBKL will give a two-week allowance as it is still Hari Raya but will start towing in June,” said Ismail.

According to The Star, residents around the area want stern action taken, including towing away vehicles to prevent motorists from parking indiscriminately.

After lodging repeated complaints to DBKL on vehicles occupying the Jalan Kiara 1 roadside, the residents have also been questioning the delay in initiating enforcement action.

As Jalan Kiara 1 is the sole access to several condominiums in Mont Kiara, the vehicles parking there illegally obstruct traffic flow and are a safety hazard to motorists and pedestrians.

According to TheStar, there are also some other problems in the area that add to the
congestion
.

Vendors trading by the roadside add to the congestion

According to 10 Mont Kiara Joint Management Committee (JMC) resident manager Sobel Phang, residents have also complained of rubbish being littered by the roadside.

This is because vendors have started trading on the pedestrian walkway. One sells coffee, and the other offers pet grooming services. They have even set up tables and are blocking the pedestrian walkway. Motorists who patronise these services are also adding to traffic congestion,” added 10 Mont Kiara JMC chairman Hiten Asher.

A StarMetro report on April 13 highlighted that DBKL
had issued
 2,386 compounds to errant motorists for parking along Jalan Kiara 1 and Jalan Kiara 4 last year.

Despite giving out the fines, it seems like things continued as usual, which is why DBKL is now taking sterner action.


Jakarta 2017: All-New 2017 Mitsubishi Xpander - 1.5L, 4AT, 5MT

A year ago,
Mitsubishi showcased the XM Concept
, a budget seven-seater crossover SUV and MPV, at the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show. Fast forward to present day and multiple spyshots later, Mitsubishi has officially taken the wraps off its latest affordable people mover at this year's edition of the very same event.
Called the Mitsubishi Xpander (not
Expander as previously reported
), this new budget MPV is powered by Mitsubishi's 1.5-litre 4A91 four-cylinder petrol engine with Mitsubishi Innovative Valve Timing Electronic Control (MIVEC) that outputs 104 hp and 141 Nm. Drive is sent to the front wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission - notice the old school 'OD Off' button on the transmission lever. There is also the option for a five-speed manual.
The 2017 Mitsubishi Xpander features the company's Dynamic Shield front fascia, with its LED daytime running lights (DRLs) positioned at the ends of the front grille. Below the DRLs are the car's main headlights and turn signals; front fog lights are placed at the very bottom of the front bumper. As for the rear end, tail lamps are LED-illuminated.
Inside, the 2017 Mitsubishi Xpander gets steering wheel-mounted audio controls and a 2-DIN audio system with USB and AUX input. Elsewhere, the Xpander also features power folding side mirrors, Active Stability Control (ASC), keyless entry with push start button and a second row seat air vent. Only 2 airbags are offered.
In terms of practicality, the Mitsubishi Xpander features a number of storage spaces throughout the cabin, including a storage space behind the third row seats. Speaking of third row seats, they can be folded flat, increasing boot space. The second row seats can be folded forwards to ease egress and ingress into the rear.
The all-new 2017 Mitsubishi Xpander is developed for Indonesia's Low Multi Purpose Vehicle (LMPV) segment, which sees the new budget MPV competing against the Honda BR-V, Toyota Avanza, Suzuki Ertiga and Nissan Grand Livina. It has been reported that Nissan is considering the Xpander's platform as the basis to develop the
next generation Grand Livina
.


Feature: Bentley Bentayga – The Keys to the Kingdom

The raindrops pelt the windscreen in anger as we approach the paddock building of the Formula 1 Circuit. Singapore’s prior sunshine and welcome has given way to gloomy clouds and wet tarmac. On the other side, inside the very pit garage that two-time
Formula 1 World Champion
 Lewis Hamilton will occupy later in the season, lies the newest creation to roll out Crewe’s factory doors.
What is it?
What started life as concept at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show simply known by a bunch of vague numbers and letters (EXP 9F to be exact) evolved into the newest plaything for the Bentley boys (and girls) of the world when in July 2013, Bentley announced the Bentayga. The first ever Bentley SUV, capable of a largely superfluous 300km/h, built on the bones of the VW Group’s new large SUV platform; the PL71.
Above: The Bentley EXP 9F Concept
Gone were squared off edges, disconnected fasciae of the metalwork, turbo-prop wheels and garish grill styles of the EXP 9F concept. The Bentayga is quintessential Bentley, the prominent grille inserts, emblazoned across the front, welcome the front hood, seemingly draped over the rounded front wings as they have in the past. A subtle kink in the metal just over the barrelled quad-headlamps now separates the vertical and horizontal regions at the front.
As the silhouette gently rises from the A-Pillar, a ‘B’ shaped wing vent just before the front door sets the tone for the lower regions of the car’s flanks. As we skirt towards the rear door, the familiar feature line cuts across the sheet metal, forming another surface for light refraction, the rear however simple in execution – does little to hide the wide stance of the vehicle.
Look closer to find optional carbon-fibre elements like the diffusers at the front, side sills and rear wing seamlessly integrated into the bodywork. While the appreciation for design can be subjective – there's little argument that the Bentayga represents superb modernity with firm salute to Bentley tradition.
Bentley claim the Bentayga is a Bentley first and an SUV second. To this effect, the power plant chosen is thoroughly re-engineered version of the firm’s W12 engine. The major numbers are as follows:
Engine: 6.0-litre twin-turbo (twin-scroll), direct-injected W12.
Power: 600bhp@ 5000rpm – 6000rpm.
Torque: 900Nm @ 1350rpm.
Transmission: ZF 8-speed automatic,permanent all-wheel drive system with a 40:60 front to rear torque split.
Performance: 301km/h top speed, 4.1 second 0-100km/h.
Dimensions (Length/Width/Height): 5140mm/1998mm/1742mm
A concoction of steel and aluminium forms the monocoque; the front hood and fenders are made from aluminium – but given its large colossus, still weighs in at 2422kg. 17 paint colours are offered as standard, 90 others from the extended range and should the list not be exhaustive enough – Bentley will also paint your Bentayga in any colour as part of its bespoke program.
On the inside, there’s 15 hide colours to decorate the cabin, highlighted by 7 veneer species that form a salvo of tactile touch points, cocooning one in decadent luxury. In the centre of the dash console is an all-new 8-inch central touchscreen with gesture control. The new navigation software allows for 3D building display and stores up to 11GigaBytes (GB) of onboard music from a 60GB solid-state hard drive. CD, DVD… you name it, it’s got it, the text-to-speech and voice recognition functions are fluent in 30 languages while two 10” Android based rear infotainment tablets are optional for rear seat entertainment. Soundtracks are beamed through a 700w 7-Speaker Signature Audio system or an optional Naim 1800w, 19-channel, 18-speaker setup for the full philharmonic experience.
How does it drive?
In a word… sensational, despite the Singapore F1 harbour side street circuit hosting the proceedings, very little of it was actually at our disposal.  A sharp acceleration stint leads us onto a quick left-right evasive manoeuvre, this, to exhibit the brutality of the engine and the finesse of the chassis.
Plant your right foot (all the way) down in the Bentayga and the resultant explosion of torque will rearrange one’s bearings of what is actually achievable in an SUV. Suffice to say, the last time I felt exhilaration and fear in equal amounts as I did in the Bentayga, it was my first time in a BMW M3. The 4.1 second 1-100km/h time of the Bentayga would place it on par with
Porsche Cayenne Turbo
S; even so, the Turbo S tops out at 284km/h – some 17km/h shy of the Bentayga.
The short burst of acceleration (some 200 metres) is all it takes to get the Bentayga into three figure speeds before I stomp hard on the brake pedal – a quick hard left and the right spares a traffic cone from being eternally wiped out – the Bentayga stays flat on its paws. The revolutionary front (dynamic) anti-roll-bar setup, augmented by the firm’s Dynamic Ride control system spreads pitch and yaw forces evenly across the car’s platform. The brakes are unfazed by the relative weight of the vehicle and complexity of the steering actions – clamping down with urgency and vigour.
A slalom section exhibits the connectivity of the speed sensitive variable ratio electronic power steering setup. Steering responses are administered rather quickly; the progressively metered outputs are easy to understand, instilling great amounts confidence very quickly.
The weightage is perhaps most impressive, given the rather agricultural sizes of the rolling rubber – piloting the Bentayga on the slalom noticeably takes about as much effort as a Honda CR-V. It’s the biggest compliment I could bestow this uber-SUV; given most owners will use it to cruise the various highstreets of the world.
In conclusion…
If the
Range Rover
 started the genre of the luxury SUV, and the Porsche Cayenne showed the world that an SUV could actually handle – rest assured the Bentayga has just moved the game on both accounts quantifiably further. In terms of performance and agility – it warps reality as to what is possible, yet maintaining traditional brand ethos of graceful style, pizzazz and impeccable finish; dare I say it, welcome to the era of the super-SUV…


Mitsubishi Unveils The Rugged 2022 Triton Phantom Plus Edition  – RM140k

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) has launched the limited edition Mitsubishi Triton Phantom Plus Edition, an RM139,700 pick-up truck for those who crave something extra.

Just like the previous generation Triton where Mitsubishi offered a limited-run Phantom Edition truck, there are quite a few changes to the exterior and interior of the double cab pick-up truck. Also like the previous Phantom Edition truck, Mitsubishi will only be offering a limited number of units, capping it at 1000 models.

Interestingly, the special edition Phantom truck is cheaper than the top-of-the-range Triton,
the Athlete
, coming in at RM139,700. Despite coming with the extra special edition exterior and interior features, one of the main reasons why the truck is cheaper than the top variant is due to its
lack of advanced safety features.

Exterior 2022 Triton Phantom Plus

For a more aggressive exterior, the limited edition 4x4 truck adds on side door mouldings, tailgate assist, Phantom tailgate moulding with rear spoiler, sports bar with matte finishing, and rugged 18-inch gloss black wheels with Yokohama's all-terrain tyres. The Phantom look is finished with Phantom Plus body decals as well as a decorative roof with LED lighting.

Interior of the 2022 Triton

On the inside, the cabin has been redesigned with a set of exclusive Phantom Plus sporty leatherette seats, red accent carpet mats and a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support.

Powertrain Phantom Plus Edition

The powertrain in the Phantom Plus Edition truck remains the same as the Athlete, as it comes with Mitsubishi's venerable
(4N15) 2.4-litre Mivec
 common-rail turbodiesel engine that churns out
181 PS
 at 3,500 rpm and
430 Nm
 of torque at 2,500 rpm.

Drive is still sent to the rear wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission, and Mitsubishi's Super Select 4WD-II system helps to spread the power across four wheels via the 4WD-II control dial in the cabin.

Safety 2022 Phantom Plus Edition

As for safety, the Phantom Plus Edition truck comes with:

Anto-Lock Braking System

Electronic Brake Force Distribution

Brake Assist

Active Stability Control

Traction Control

Rest Reminder

Hill Start Assist

Trailer Stability Assist

2-Airbags

The Phantom Plus Edition is equipped with a Driving Video Recorder as standard for extra safety.

Warranty 2022 Mitsubishi Phantom Plus Edition

The Mitsubishi Phantom Plus Edition truck is offered with a 5-Years/200,000km warranty (whichever comes first).


Blueshark R1 Diperkenal Untuk Pasaran Malaysia – Bakal Dilancar November 2022

Skuter elektrik pintar
Blueshark R1
 bakal dilancarkan di pasaran Malaysia pada November tahun ini!

EP Manufacturing (EPMB) bakal membawa masuk skuter elektrik pintar terkemuka dunia, Blueshark bukanlah sebagai unit CBU, namun ia bakal dipasang di negara ini memandangkan ia telah menerima lesen pengilangan daripada
MITI
serta telah menerima kelulusan
VTA
daripada JPJ.

Revolusi Mobiliti Urban Hijau Malaysia

Blueshark bersama-sama EPMB telah mengumumkan kerjasama dengan beberapa pemain industri tempatan seperti Blueshark Ecosystem Sdn Bhd dan Malaysian Green Technology & Climate Change Corporation (MGTC) sebagai usaha untuk merevolusi mobiliti urban hijau di Malaysia.

Matlamatnya adalah untuk memangkin perniagaan dari sudut logistik dengan memperkasakan perusahaan kecil dan sederhana (PKS) sambil memudahkan kegiatan ekonomi sambilan sekali gus membekalkan akses yang lebih baik ke atas pelbagai peluang kerjaya buat komuniti B40.

Blueshark juga komited untuk menambah baik dan meluaskan infrastruktur bagi kenderaan elektrik beroda dua (2WEV) dengan ekosistem berdaya maju yang pertama seumpamanya dirumus untuk mendukung pertumbuhannya dalam skala nasional.

Skuter EV Mampu Milik

Menurut Zulkefly bin Baharuddin, Naib Pengerusi Eksekutif EP Manufacturing Bhd (EPMB), cara paling efektif untuk menggiatkan penerimagunaan EV adalah dengan membekalkan para pengguna akses ke atas produk yang lebih baik dan mampu milik, dikuasakan oleh solusi tenaga yang berwajaran serta ekosistem yang lengkap untuk menyokongnya.

Di Persidangan dan Pameran Teknologi Hijau & Produk Eko Antarabangsa Malaysia (IGEM) 2022 hari ini, Blueshark telah memeterai sebuah MoC dengan pemain industri yang terkemuka bagi menjana peluang pekerjaan berasaskan kelestarian buat komuniti B40 sambil memudahkan penerimagunaan skuter elektrik pintar di sini.

Sebuah program rintis yang akan dijalankan dalam fasa pertama dengan rakan penghantaran dan infrastruktur masing-masing akan mendemonstrasikan kebolehlaksanaan platform berelektrik ‘first-to-last mile’ serta ekosistem yang sedia menemui pasaran di kawasan Lembah Klang.

Hadir dengan model pajakan komersial, Blueshark membidik untuk memperkasakan PKS dengan mengurangkan kos operasi yang merentasi seluruh ekosistem selain menjadikan Blueshark pilihan yang bijak untuk perniagaan dan untuk kelestarian alam sekitar. Bahkan, langkah ini juga mampu mengangkat komuniti-komuniti tempatan dalam kategori pendapatan rendah menerusi akses ke atas peluang pekerjaan hijau.

Sementara itu, pusat 3S pertama milik Blueshark yang bakal dibuka tidak lama lagi di Glenmarie. Ini membuktikan komitmen mereka untuk memperkayakan infrastruktur tempatan dan membekalkan sokongan ekosistem yang utuh buat para penunggang sepanjang tempoh program rintis berkenaan dan selanjutnya.

Mengenai Blueshark R1

Blueshark R1 dikuasakan dengan motor elektrik berkuasa 5,000 W yang menghasilkan tork yang amat tinggi, iaitu pada 201 Nm tork. Skuter ini memerlukan 4.9 saat untuk bergerak dari 0-50 km/j manakala kelajuan maksimumnya hanyalah 80 Km/j sahaja.

Baterinya pula dilengkapi dengan bateri lithium ion berkembar berkapasiti 2,880 Wh yang boleh dicas terus bersama motosikal atau baterinya boleh ditanggalkan untuk dicas. Selama 3.5 jam diperlukan untuk mengecas dari 0-100% manakala dari 0-80%, hanya 2.5 jam diperlukan. Apabila dicas penuh, R1 ini mampu bergerak sehingga 160 km.

Selain itu, motosikal ini dilengkapi dengan Sistem Operasi ArkRide, sebuah sistem operasi canggih dan sentiasa terhubung yang hadir dengan ciri interaksi peranti pintar. Ia membawakan pengataramuka mesra pengguna berasaskan Android yang boleh disuai di samping pelbagai ciri bantuan penunggang yang membolehkan pengemaskinian perisian dibuat dari jauh, turut hadir dengan telemetri kenderaan serba komprehensif yang disambungkan kepada Internet Kenderaan (IoV) kami sendiri.

Ketika ini, harga bagi skuter elektrik pintar ini masih belum didedahkan. Nantikan pelancaran skuter ini di pasaran Malaysia pada November ini!


Geneva 2019: The Mitsubishi Engelberg Tourer Is The Ski Vacation Vehicle Of The Future

Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV) are nothing new. We have them in concept form, and we have them in production form, and we have entire networks of chargers being set up in various parts of the world to make these versatile hybrid vehicles more fuel efficient by keeping those batteries happily charged. The latest in the line of PHEV concepts is the Engelberg Tourer from Mitsubishi, named after a ski town in Switzerland. It's an SUV that seats six, in a 2 + 2 + 2 layout.
From an engineering standpoint, it's a twin-motor 4WD setup. The main focus is a long cruising range, which is kind of necessary when it comes to ski holidays. Don't forget that the cold has an adverse effect on the charge lifespan of a battery, so this is a consideration when you're literally designing a car for cold climate usage. The conventional engine is a 2.4-litre petrol unit, of unknown power outputs. There's an electric motor at the front and rear axle to provide that instantaneous torque and better stability when in EV mode.
EV cruising range? Over 70 km according to the WLTP cycle, and with a fully charged battery and a full fuel tank it's capable of 700 km of driving range. The 4WD system (not AWD) is Mitsubishi's own developed from the Lancer Evolution series of vehicles, complete with Active Yaw Control and Super All-Wheel Control to give you the most effective torque distribution at any given time.
And as is the norm for cars these days, especially with concepts, connectivity is a must. The Engelberg Tourer gets weather, temperature, topography, traffic, and surface conditions from some cloud based system which is in turn used to prep and prime the various systems in the vehicle to make it more effective in the conditions. It's something that's been propositioned by a certain Swedish brand as well, although it would depend heavily upon the number of cars that are actually feeding information to this hypothetical cloud.


PDRM Drones Monitoring Emergency Lane Drivers On Highway

In conjunction with Op Selamat 18, PDRM drones are monitoring the highways for drivers who use the emergency lane.

Road users who think they're above the law or can get away scot-free from driving on the emergency lanes now have to think again.

Daily monitoring of Malaysian highways is being undertaken by the
Drone Unit of the Royal Malaysia Police
 (PDRM).

According to Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT) deputy director (1) Datuk Mohd Nadzri Hussain, "Although there are (drivers) who misuse the emergency lane, I can say that the majority of motorists are excellent, as using the emergency lane to overtake merely to reach your destination earlier is really overdoing things.

"So, most motorists still respect the law and do listen to the advice from police,” he told reporters after conducting a
drone demonstration
 as part of Op Selamat 18 at the northbound Slim River toll plaza along the North-South Expressway as reported by Bernama.

Mohd Nadzri further added that the location of the drone surveillance would change daily throughout Op Selamat 18.

Now that PDRM have eyes in the sky, you best behave on the land. Follow road laws and get to your destination safely.

*All images credit to PDRM Drone Unit Facebook


Lynk & Co Entering Malaysia By 2025, Geely Confirms. Terus CKD?

Lynk & Co, one of the more prominent and internationally-focused brands under the Geely umbrella co-established with Volvo, is now locked-in to enter the Malaysian market within the next 5 years. By the year 2025, the badge will have established a presence locally, though what this entails remains a mystery.

As if being the majority stakeholder and operator of national automaker Proton as it surges back into prominence wasn’t enough, Geely has now officially confirmed that it has
more far-reaching plans for the Malaysian
 automotive market.

Following the presentation of its “Smart Geely 2025” strategy earlier in 2021, in which numerous initiatives and action plans were outlined to help achieve a group-wide annual sales target of 3.65 million vehicles, the Chinese automaker confirmed Lynk & Co’s expansion to new markets including Malaysia, Russia, Australia, and New Zealand.

In the past, test units of Lynk & Co production vehicles, so identified by their left-hand drive configuration,
were spotted on Malaysian roads
 for obvious feasibility trials. This confirmation proves that this move was years in the making.

More broadly, Geely is also seeking to expand their reach by making inroads into regions previously unknown to the brand such as South America, the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and yes, other countries within Southeast Asia.

Obviously, given the Proton connection, Malaysia makes for the perfect springboard for entry into lucrative territories like Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore and Vietnam - especially for Geely’s newer electrified-only marques such as Polestar, Geometry, and
Zeekr
.

Since its inception, Lynk & Co has emphasised their unique vehicle sales and distribution model that focuses on subscriptions, vehicle sharing, and longer-term leases over the more typical private ownership. However, the brand has since become more flexible on the concept, opening the doors to markets that aren’t quite ready for such a paradigm shift.

At the moment, a total of 9 models populate the Lynk & Co line-up, starting with the aptly named 01, a compact SUV built on the same
CMA (Compact Modular Architecture)
 platform shared with the Volvo XC40. The 05 is very closely related but boasts a sportier coupe-style body.

There are hatchbacks,
saloon cars
 in the mix as well, such as the 02 and 03, also underpinned by CMA. At the top of the size heap,
there’s also the Lynk & Co 09
, a premium 7-seat SUV that’s clearly cut from the same cloth as the Volvo XC90 and packing enough tech features to upstage the big Swede.

The 09, curiously, also boasts a slightly more powerful version of the T8 Twin Engine PHEV powertrain, with a combined output of 431hp over the XC90’s peak of 402hp.

Of course, we have to wait for more official word on the matter before we can speculate on which models might grace a Malaysian Lynk & Co showroom, physical or virtual.

However, we can make an educated guess that Geely is very aware of the need for local assembly for their cars to be cost-viable here, hence the strong likelihood that either a major expansion of Proton’s Tanjung Malim plant or a completely new facility is on the cards between now and 2025.


Dancing Cars? Say Hello To Mercedes-Benz’s E-Active Body Control

Following the market launch of the
all-new Mercedes-Benz GLE
, the three-pointed star marque showed the other, more party-friendly side of the premium off-roader showing off a slick dance move, made possible by the firm’s E-Active Body Control.
No, really.
As shown on Gorden Wagener’s Instagram post below, the Mercedes-Benz GLE is capable of a few slick moves. Do keep in mind that the GLE seen here was likely programmed specifically to pull off these moves.
But active suspension isn’t new for Mercedes-Benz, having introduced its first-ever Active Body Control (ABC) suspension on then C215-generation CL-Class in 1999. In the subsequent years that followed, Mercedes-Benz continued to fine-tune the system, and added Road Surface Scan in 2013, allowing it to be the world’s first-ever predictive suspension system. E-Active Body Control suspension also features the Road Surface Scan system when the GLE is equipped with the stereo camera.
While the new E-Active Body Control system runs on the new 48 V electrical system, mechanically the system is similar to the current Airmatic suspension, able to be raised or lowered on demand.
In addition to that, the hydropneumatics generate dynamic forces that overcome the air suspension forces and actively dampen the vehicle body. As a result, the vehicle’s body will not squat or pitch during braking and acceleration. In addition to that, the system is able to recuperate energy on poor road surfaces.
Thanks to the new E-Active Body Control suspension system, the all-new Mercedes-Benz GLE is able to boast several new features, including:
Rocking mode: As the name suggests, the GLE is able to rock itself out of sand dunes if it ever gets stuck. Rocking mode works by raising and lowering the suspension level several times that increases and reduces the ground pressure of the tires and thus improving traction.
Individual wheel actuation: Part of the Offroad program, this feature allows the spring level at each corner of the GLE to be adjusted with just a touch on the infotainment display, improving the vehicle’s off-road behaviour on rough and demanding terrains.
Rear-end lowering when loading and unloading: The GLE is able to lower its rear axle at the touch of a button, allowing owners to load and unload items easily. The rear axle will lower itself by 40 mm from its currently set level, but won’t exceed 70 mm.
These aside, to see a dancing GLE is certainly an eyebrow-raising experience.
What a time to be alive.


KLIMS 2018: Ford Ranger Raptor Launched – Priced At RM199,888

Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC) finally launched the new Ranger Raptor today at the Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show (KLIMS), with a price tag of RM199,888 (OTR without insurance).
Offered in two colours (Lightning Blue and Conquer Grey), the Ranger Raptor is powered by a 2.0-liter Bi-Turbo diesel engine which is mated to a 10-speed transmission, producing 213 PS and 500 Nm of maximum torque.
The powertrain package also includes Ford’s 4x4 system and and the Terrain Management System which offers six driving modes – Baja, Sport, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Mud/Sand, Rock, and Normal.
Key features of Ranger Raptor include:
A reinforced chassis
Position Sensitive Damping (PSD) shock absorbers by Fox
Watt’s linkage rear suspension with coilover rear springs
BF Goodrich all-terrain tyres
150 mm wider track
332 mm brake discs all around
Automatic headlights
Automatic wipers
Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters
Power driver seat
Dual-zone automatic air-conditioning
Heavy duty side steps
Ford Performance Scuff Plates
283 mm ground clearance
Unique ‘Raptor’ exterior decal
Bumpers with an integrated tow bar and two recovery hooks
Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
Forward Collision Warning
Lane Departure Warning
Adaptive Cruise Control
Easy Lift Tailgate
HID headlights with LED DRLs and fog lamps
A 230 V power socket
Sync 3 infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, AppLink
8-inch touch screen display with Bluetooth, GPS, voice recognition
Hill Descent Control
E-locking rear differential
6 airbags
800 mm water wading
4x4 Shift on the fly
“We are thrilled to build on our Ranger success story here in Malaysia with the Ranger Raptor, which combines the Ranger’s renowned ‘Built Ford Tough’ character with Ford Performance DNA to set a new benchmark in off-road capability” said Truong Kim Phong, Managing Director, Asia Pacific Emerging Markets, Ford Motor Company.
Having said that, SDAC is offering exclusive promotions for its vehicles at the Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show 2018, where:
Visitors who book the new Ranger and Mustang will stand a chance to grab cash vouchers in the Bi-turbo wind tunnel machine.
Customers who purchase any new Ford Ranger variant will also be in the running to win a Ranger Raptor under the ‘Buy A New Ford Ranger, Win A Ranger Raptor' Contest.
The first 888 customers who register their new Ford Ranger will each receive an electrical goods voucher worth RM1,000.
Up to 2 years free maintenance or up to 40,000 km for customers who successfully register the New Ranger including the New Ranger Raptor before 31 January 2019, whichever comes first.


Lotus To Launch 3 New Super SUVs In Next 3 Years, Built In Wuhan

With ground broken on a new high tech factory in China and a whole new family of sporty cars to start rolling out from 2022, Lotus is moving fast to become a larger presence than they ever were since the British firm’s 1948 founding.

Mere weeks have passed since Lotus unveiled their latest mid-engine machine,
the Emira
, to replace the ageing Evora, currently Hethel’s only volume production model with the
demise of the Elise and Exige
.

In addition to following a tried and tested formula, it’s a car that adds plenty of new concepts over what we’ve seen from their previous efforts. Importantly, with the announcement that the brand will be fully embracing electric drive, it might very well be their final combustion-powered model.

With that begins Lotus’ next phase, and an impetus to populate the line-up with a
revamped selection
 of all-new, highly desirable, and highly competitive offerings. At the centre of this is an upcoming £900 million (RM5.141 billion) production facility in Wuhan, China, a location that’s become infamous over the past 2 years.

This location will be a major base of development and operations for Lotus once it reaches completion in 2024, headquartering the automaker’s technology and research division. It will also be the birthplace of two Chinese-built EV models due to arrive in the next 5 years, as confirmed recently.

The Type 132, which began work in 2016 and should be in its late stages of development, will be Lotus’ first fully electric model as well as the brand’s first SUV. Positioned as their ‘mass’ model, in both weight and production volume, this yet-unnamed contender will be joined by the Type 133 electric four-door coupe in 2023 and the larger Type 134 D-segment electric SUV in 2024, all built on
shared EV underpinnings from parent company Geely
.

Reportedly, battery capacities will range from 92kWh to 120kWh and are equipped with an 800V electrical architecture that supports the industry’s latest DC fast charging protocols. Exacting specifications remain mysterious but expect dual-motor all-wheel drive for at least 600hp and a 0-100km/h sprint time under 3 seconds.

As revealed by Li Bin, founder and CEO of Shanghai-based EV maker NIO, with whom a new partnership has been inked, the Lotus Technology campus and factory will have the capacity to produce up to 150,000 vehicles per year. The days of Lotus being a niche, low volume sports car maker is truly in the past.

The Wuhan facility will also be the first-ever to house an “integrated intelligent test track” with the ability to have cars manoeuvre themselves into different workshops as needed, fully autonomously, and even drive themselves at speeds of up to 225km/h around its 16 corner proving course.

With a fresh range poised to tackle the highly popular (not to mention lucrative) SUV and electric space simultaneously, Lotus will then move on to a project more rooted in its sports car history. For now, it’s called the Type 135, which was recently revealed to be developed in partnership with Renault-owned French performance marque Alpine.

The low slung Type 135 will be fairly lightweight and compact in dimension but exceedingly powerful for its size - smells like an Esprit. Built at Lotus’ home in Hethel like the current Emira and Evija hypercar, the company seems committed to retaining their British DNA, with their centre in Norfolk responsible for much of the brand’s global sales and coordination efforts.


Tokyo 2017: Daihatsu DN Compagno – The Perodua Bezza We Want But Can't Have

Small in stature, but by no means, light on ambition – is Daihatsu’s Compagno four-door coupe, unveiled for the first time at the ongoing  2017 Tokyo Motorshow.
The DN Compagno pays tribute to the stylish approach to design, first seen on the original Daihatsu Compagno, from 1963.
And far from being designed for younger customers – the Campagno is targeted at senior citizens with an active lifestyle. The small stylish ‘coupe’ is designed comfortably seat two adults and provides colorful support to enrich the driving experience.
The DN Compagno is 4,200 mm in length, 1,695 mm in width and 1,430 mm in height, which makes it similar in size to a Perodua Bezza, which measures 4,150 mm in length, 1,620 mm in width and 1,510 mm in height.
The vehicle prioritizes the relaxing comfort of the two front seats, complemented by trendy, high-quality interior.
Daihatsu is light on definitive figures for the DN Compagno,  but confirmed the car features a 1,000cc turbocharged powertrain, with the option of a 1,200cc hybrid.
It is highly likely, that should the Compagno be cleared for production, it will be based on the Daihatsu New Global Architecture ( DNGA ), which like parent company Toyota’s TNGA platform – allows better-quality to be developed quicker and marketed at more affordable prices.


Ken Block unleashes Audi S1 Hoonitron in Las Vegas

Ken Block
 has published the long-awaited Electrikhana video featuring his all-electric
Audi S1 Hoonitron
.

Those who have been following the Hoonigan OG know that he's been working closely with
Audi Sport
 to develop his latest all-electric prototype wheel-shredding machine with a dash of old-school cues. The place to unleash it all? Las Vegas, baby.

Electrified drifts, jumps, and donuts

Set in the nighttime of Las Vegas, the Audi S1 Hoonitron spectacularly drifted along the famous Eiffel Tower (in Las Vegas, not France), jumped from a parking deck of the hotel next door, and some juicy donuts on the iconic Las Vegas strip.

Powered by two electric motors, the
Audi S1 Hoonitron
 also features an all-wheel-drive system, carbon fibre chassis, and other bits and pieces that fully comply with the FIA. Paired with an exterior that pays homage to the legendary Audi Sport quattro S1, Ken Block's latest 'Hoonicorn' is indeed a futuristic work of art.

Audi breaking new ground with the Hoonitron

According to Oliver Hoffmann, Member of the Board for Technical Development at Audi AG, "With the S1 Hoonitron we broke entirely new ground at Audi. Developing a fully electric prototype for the unique requirements of our partner Ken Block was a big and exciting challenge to which the whole team rose with flying colors. It is great to see how ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’ is presented in an all-new environment."

Audi fans can also rejoice with some very special appearances such as the 1989 Audi 90 IMSA GTO, 1988 Audi 200 Trans Am, 1987 Audi Sport quattro S1 Pikes Peak, 1984 Audi quattro Gruppe B A2 as well as the Audi R8 LMP and Audi R18 e-tron quattro. Check out Ken Block and all of his latest glory in the video, below.


2016 Lexus LX570 Revealed In Leaked Images

Some leaked images have surfaced of the 2016
Lexus

LX570
, which in turn, is related to the updated 2016 Toyota Land Cruiser. In this iteration, the designers have taken the opportunity to give it a more aggressive touches.
The recent pictures come from an individual known as Hamad1two3, which was shared on
ClubLexus
 and Instagram, and lets us glimpse the new LX570’s more angular front end, more pronounced Lexus spindle grille, new headlamp and taillamp design, pointier daytime running lamps, new wheels, as well as different front fenders at the front as well as an altered D-pillar at the rear.
On the inside, you can see Lexus lays on a lot of leather and wood while also revising the centre layout, with a large multi-function screen perched on top, likely loaded with new software additions as well as the latest edition of Lexus Safety System+.
Currently, the LX570 sports a 5.7-litre V8 with 362hp and 530Nm of torque, and that powertrain is expected to make a return for the 2016 model, with an all-new engine due to premiere with a completely redesigned car as well.


Peugeot 308 Facelift Debuts With New 8 Speed Automatic

The facelifted Peugeot 308 has been revealed ahead of its first public appearance at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show this September. The new model featuring various enhancements, including a new eight-speed automatic transmission. These official images come shortly after pictures of the new 308 facelift were
leaked
 onto the Internet a month ago.
For the new Peugeot 308, a new front grille coupled with a sportier front bumper. The company says that the new front bumper gets larger air intake for better engine cooling. The familiar three-claw tail light is retained from the current model.
Inside, Peugeot mentioned that the new 308 gets a new Mirror Screen, compatible with MirrorLink, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The dashboard layout remains identical to the outgoing model. Park Assist is also new, on top of the new Visiopark 1 with a rear view camera.
Elsewhere, Peugeot is introducing eight new driver assistance systems on the new 308, including Active Safety Brake and Active Lane Departure Warning.
The facelifted Peugeot 308 is also the first model from PSA to include active cruise control that can bring the vehicle to a full stop for automatic transmission models or a 30 km/h for manual transmission models.

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Last but not least is the new range of petrol and diesel engines. For the Peugeot 308 GT, this model receives a new BlueHDi 180 S&S diesel engine mated to a new eight-speed EAT8 automatic transmission, co-developed with Aisin. There's also the new BlueHDi 130 S&S diesel, making its debut on the new Peugeot 308.
For those who prefer a petrol-powered model, there is the new PureTech 130 S&S turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine, which features a high-precision injection control to improve combustion efficiency and a new catalytic converter with passive-regeneration gasoline particle filter. The petrol engine can be had with a new six-speed manual.


KLIAC 2018- Digital Advancement To Significantly Transform Automotive Retailing

The Asian Strategy and Leadership Institute (ASLI) and the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) co-organized the Kuala Lumpur International Automotive Conference 2018 (KLIAC 2018) at the Malaysian International Trade & Exhibition Centre (MITEC), Kuala Lumpur.
As Malaysia enters the 4th Industrial Revolution, it has become more pertinent than ever to incorporate technological revolutions into the automotive industry. At the same time, it is vital that the industry addresses the sustainability of its current and future practices.
The KLIAC 2018 provided an encouraging space for local automotive stakeholders and industry experts to exchange ideas and foster collaboration. The theme, ‘Beyond Mobility: Moving Sustainably’, references the synergic benefits promised by improved digital connectivity in increasing efficiency and improving sustainability.
One aspect of continuous digitalization of the automotive industry is the retailing sector. Automotive classifieds have changed tremendously over the past 15 years. From flipping pages of magazine and newspapers at the classified section, moving to dedicated listings on the internet through personal computers, we can now view prices and availability of vehicles immediately through our smartphone.
Carlist.my was invited as one of the panel speakers to provide insights on how consumers shop for a vehicle today. Hamish Stone, CEO of iCar Asia said, “Digital transformation has always been at the heart of what iCar Asia is driving. It is our vision and mission to drive the digital transformation within the automotive industry across the ASEAN region.”
Almost 12 million unique visitors visit iCar Asia localized websites every month and together with over 10,000 active dealer accounts, a tremendous amount of data is generated. A dedicated team at iCar Asia compiles this data and understand the shifts in different buyer preferences.
Data insights run the business more efficiently. iCar Asia is able to understand both the buyer and the seller's transaction journey much better and thus offers better solutions for both parties.
Apart from used car classifieds, iCar Asia is also teaming up with distributors of new vehicles to provide services such as lead management. The sales team will have the right tools and technology to inform the prospect in a better way for a more informed purchase decision.
Panel speakers from Malaysia Automotive Institute (MAI), Proton, and Perodua were also present. Proton briefly shared information of their planned connectivity services from Geely called Geely iNTEC.
MAI meanwhile shared that they are working with several other government agencies to get investors to locally manufacture lithium-ion batteries for the next generation vehicle. An autonomous driving vehicle test bed is also planned to better prepare the industry in producing as well as mass commercializing these segment of vehicles.


Review: 2016 Renault Koleos – Aspirations Beyond Its Price

If there is to be a poster child of the Renault-Nissan Alliance, the Renault Koleos would be it. First introduced in 2006, the Koleos was the Renault brand’s first crossover SUV, and it sensibly drew on expertise from sister brand Nissan, which provided the X-Trail platform to underpin it.
Produced in Korea at the Renault Samsung plant, the first-generation Koleos was met with mixed response – doing well in some markets, but less so in others – despite the prevalent boom of SUV-type vehicles over the past decade. Far from being dissuaded, Renault went back to the drawing board and refined its approach for a renewed crack at the pie with the
second-generation Koleos
 unveiled
earlier this year
.
The same basic formula of utilizing the X-Trail’s hardware to underpin the vehicle is continued, but with substantially improved execution. A renewed focus is placed on crafting a vehicle with more upmarket aspirations and thus exert a greater pull factor to the affluent customers who typically shop in this price bracket.
Specifications:
Price: RM172,800 (CBU, OTR without Insurance)
Engine: 2.5-litre, Inline-4 Transverse, Petrol
Power: 171PS @ 6,000rpm
Torque: 226Nm @ 4,400rpm
Transmission: CVT, FWD
Safety: 6 airbags, ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Control, Hill Start Assist, ISOFIX
Origin: Fully imported from Korea.
Overview
Only one version of the Koleos is available to Malaysians at the moment, and it is a highly-specced 2.5-litre model offered in a front-wheel drive configuration. Inevitably,
comparisons have to be drawn with the Nissan X-Trail
, which the Koleos not only shares much of its running gear with, but also runs very close on price.
The locally-assembled Nissan would seem to be the better value option at first glance, offering seats for seven and the superior traction of all-wheel drive when ordered in 2.5-litre form. Both versions of the X-Trail are also priced lower than the fully-imported Koleos. Despite its common hardware with the X-Trail, Renault offers the Koleos solely as a five-seater across the world.
Standard equipment of the Koleos is nevertheless impressive. Granted, it loses the useful 360-degree around view monitor that is standard for the X-Trail, but the deficit is more than adequately compensated by the provision of six airbags and the highly slick
R-Link 2 infotainment system
. In any case, reverse camera and all-round parking sensors are provided as well.
Exterior
Compared to its predecessor, the Koleos has grown both in size and stature. Front to back, the new car stretches 152mm longer whilst spanning 12mm wider than before; wheelbase too, is lengthened, albeit by only 15mm.
Complimenting the expanded dimensions are bolder and more expressive styling cues that give the new car far greater road presence. The intricate headlamp designs provide the vehicle a more distinctive face and LED lighting elements front and rear add to the vehicle’s overall perceived value. The new Koleos may be priced lower than its predecessor, but it sure as hell looks like a more expensive vehicle.
Interior
Commensurate with its expressive exterior design, the Koleos’ interior is accordingly packaged to give a convincingly upmarket impression. Taking centre stage in the cabin is the slick new R-Link 2 infotainment system that consists of a smooth-operating 8.7-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen complemented by a TFT screen semi-virtual instrument cluster. Both display screens can be customized in appearance as well as information to display.
The fancy infotainment system instantly help raise the cabin’s showroom appeal which other elements accordingly maintain. Overall build quality is excellent and we reason to complain neither on fit and finish nor quality of materials. Tactile feel of switchgear is generally excellent too.
We are not big fans of Renault’s eccentric ergonomics however – if there is a logic to place the cruise control on/off switch on the centre console rather than on the steering wheel, it’s certainly beyond us. Neither do we understand the need for a separate control stalk to place the audio controls.
Moving astern, without the need to fit a third row of seats, Renault’s designers have far less constraints in packaging the Koleos’ rear end than Nissan’s had with the X-Trail. Second row accommodations are therefore spacious on both head and legroom, and so is the rear cargo hold, under which there is room for a full sized spare tyre. Conveniently placed latches allow easy tumbling of the 60:40 split-folding rear seats although the result is a seamless but not perfectly flat expanded cargo floor.
Driving Experience
Nissan X-Trail owners who fail to recognize the Koleos’ common origins with their vehicles in appearance will instantly be reminded by familiar sensations when they get behind the wheel and hit the road.
Straight line performance will not trouble the sporty end of the spectrum by any stretch of the imagination. The 2.5-litre port injection mill delivers adequate push when summoned, and the CVT seems to overwhelmingly prefer occupying the higher ratios when possible in the interest of fuel economy.
The result of these behavioural characteristics is that the Koleos seem to exhibit an entirely appropriate preference for gentle and refined cruising. Any attempts at spirited driving, particularly on hilly terrain, will require extensive usage of the manual selection mode, in which six virtual ratios are provided.
That being said, if you’re in the mood to gun it, the chassis happily obliges; on dry tarmac, the Koleos hardly feels handicapped by the lack of all-wheel traction around corners. Body movements feel well-controlled too, sufficiently conducive for a driver so minded to string a few brisk corners with reasonable confidence. Steering is satisfactory in its sharpness and weight, but is less communicative in its feedback than we would have liked.
Comfort & Refinement
The positive side about the Koleos’ close ties with the X-Trail is that the Nissan’s inherent refinement is also evident in the Renault. Though it can be lazy when asked to work, the X-Tronic is as smooth and as refined as CVTs come under part-throttle cruising. Engine too, is quiet, meaning that this is a vehicle that scores highly for long-distance outings with the family.
Ride errs on the firm side, but pliant enough to serviceable for day-to-day urban use. The suspension does a fair job isolating the cabin from long-wave undulations, but occasionally gets caught out by sharper intrusions such as bumps and potholes.
Economy & Maintenance
Over a 300km test route covering a mix of urban, highway, and hilly roads, we recorded a fuel consumption reading of 9.9 litres/100km – extremely commendable in the context of a 2.5-litre engine powering a heavy SUV. It is comparable to what we managed under similar conditions with the lighter 2.0-litre Mitsubishi ASX, which admittedly also had the added burden of all-wheel drive. Interestingly, we managed the
same figure with the X-Trail 2.5 AWD
.
Renault has yet to publish servicing costs for the Koleos, but if the mechanically-related X-Trail 2.5 AWD is any indication, you’re looking at a total of RM6,700 in maintenance over a period of 5 years or 100,000km. Both the Koleos and X-Trail have prescribed service intervals of 6 months / 10,000km.
Conclusion
Bland; anonymous – these were adjectives that would have summed up the previous Koleos. A competent car, but without any defining characteristic to shout about. The new one addresses these concerns positively.
Renault evidently realized that they were on the right track with the previous model, but did not go quite far enough in its execution; they seem to have gotten the approach right this time. In a segment filled with competitive rivals, the Koleos stands out proudly with its bold styling and upmarket cabin.
By any metric you can consider, the new Koleos is far superior to the vehicle it replaces and definitely far worthier of your consideration. It is slightly more expensive than the mainstream choices, but convincingly embodies the look and feel of a premium product.


Review: Audi TT S Coupe - Sprints in the dry, dances in the rain

Likewise
BMW
 M,
Audi
also produces extreme performance versions dubbed ‘RS’ for a few of their models. Just below them, however, Audi also makes a high performance ‘S’ version for every single one of its models just like Mercedes-Benz. And the arrival of the TT S marks a significant commitment by Audi as this is the very first time a performance variant is officially brought into Malaysia after the R8 supercar.
While old Audi S models used to have the same engine as their RS counterparts, differentiated only by the power output they produced. But Audi’s new philosophy towards the S models meant that they should have a mass appeal, aided by vast technological improvements in turbocharged engines; S models are now largely factory-tuned high performance models serving as the highest spec variant of each model.
The TT S thus joins the TT making a two-variant lineup for Audi’s 2+2 sports car with prices from RM285k to RM390k, undercutting every single rival. And let me pull out a short chart to show you how significant this pricing strategy is:

Audi
TT
230hp
370Nm
RM285k
Audi
TT S
286hp
380Nm
RM390k
BMW
Z4 sDrive20i
184hp
270Nm
RM360k
BMW
Z4 sDrive28i
245hp
350Nm
RM488k
Mercedes-Benz
SLK 200
184hp
270Nm
RM461k
What this means is that the basic Audi TT is almost RM200k away from Audi’s closest competition, even if the TT S were to be pit against the Z4 sDrive28i with which the BMW’s performance is closer to the basic TT, the TT S still is a RM100k cheaper to buy. Simply put, whichever variant of the TT you choose, you get more horses for less money than the competition.
Specifications:
Price: RM389,900
Engine: 2.0-litre, transverse inline-4, turbocharged, petrol direct injection
Power: 286hp @ 5,300rpm
Torque: 380Nm @1,800rpm
Transmission: 6-speed twin clutch (wet) S-Tronic, permanent four wheel drive
Safety: 6 airbags, ISOFIX, ABS, EBD, VSC, Torque vectoring (brake)
Origin: Fully imported from
Györ
,
Hungary
Overview:
As discussed earlier on, Audi no longer offer detuned RS engines to S models, for if not, we’ll getting the brilliant 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine from the TT RS. What we get instead for the Audi TT S, is still a very high performance 2.0-litre direct injection turbocharged, variable valve timing engine, (think 6hp more than a
Nissan Skyline
 GTR34) at 286hp and 380Nm. And with Audi’s famed quattro permanent all wheel drive, the TT S puts down astonishing performance in only needing 4.7 seconds to go from 0-100km/h. Again putting things into perspective, this sort of performance is 911 territory, oh 911 GT3 996 territory to be precise. And the best part of having a higher tuned small engine rather than a detuned big engine? You’re only paying RM380 road tax while at it.
So what is the Audi TT? Why did so many people buy one? My take is that it is essentially a much more affordable
Porsche 911
 in terms of market proposition, even though the resident office nerds Hans and Kon see it as the exact opposite of a
Carrera
. Think about it though – a sports car with excellent everyday usability, practical enough for short trips, a 2+2 layout where kids from 2 - 10 year olds get to fit behind. And with front wheel drive or four wheel drive, the TT is a sports car with almost no learning curve at all to drive fast. While proportionately it may look small, the TT is actually wider and taller than the current-gen 911, and with a longer wheelbase to boot.
If we have an imaginary ladder for a car enthusiast to start climbing up the luxury sports car foodchain with the Bugatti Veyron at the top, the TT would be a good start, yeah that’s how I’d put it.

Exterior
The TT S differentiates itself from the standard TT the same way Audi does all its S models. Gloss aluminium side mirror housing, (yes, it’s solid aluminium, not chrome plated) and quad exhausts with two on each side, and a plethora of S model badging as well as a different front grille and bumper. These minute differences might not be noticeable to others, but for an Audi enthusiast, the sight of these aluminium side mirror housings from afar denotes something special. (More so if it’s matte finished housings as that calls for RS)
Apart from these little telltales, there are no differences to the standard TT, Which is fair as the standard TT is no slouch either with 230hp on tap and a century sprint time of only 5.9 seconds. In terms of body design, Audi seems not willing to remove itself from the basic shape, but this 3rd generation Audi TT follows the design direction under Wolfgang Egger of having strong edgy cut lines running all over the car.
One important detail is that this is the first Audi to ape the
R8
’s placement of the four rings on the hood instead of within the grille, and it is also the first Audi to use the bonnet shut line to blend into the car’s side character line - another elegant Audi solution towards reducing the number of panel lines ruining a car’s design. And this has been adopted into the design of the new A4 B9 scheduled to arrive very soon, and I believe will be adopted across the board.
Interior
Now this is where Audi will blow everyone off their proverbial soft-touch poking knuckle knocking wandering hands. This is the most beautiful interior Audi has ever built; it even shames that of the R8 and even those of
Lamborghinis
. Now don’t attempt to even tell me you don’t think so, because if you do - you’re wrong. In a time and age where all carmakers have to somehow fit a screen in the center console, Audi went F this sh*t and clean everything up, condensing all information into the Virtual Cockpit. What’s left in the center console are three beautiful air vents where the dials are integrated with a circular display panel. The ingenuity of this itself deserves an industrial design award of the decade. It’s elegant, purposeful, and achieves its objective with pure ingenuity.
The same can’t be said about the new MMI’s shortcut keys. What was once straight simple buttons was minimised to become toggles for pushing up or pulling down. While the minimalist design is certainly attractive, the layout proved unintuitive its design and operation. Next is the gear stalk, which Audi should take a leaf out of BMW’s book to have a sexier looking, more avantgarde design. But of course, this is a minor rant.
How does it drive?
I have a confession to make, being the owner of an Audi S4 with more than 400hp, I can’t tell if the TT S is fast, and on the day I test this new TT S, I brought along with me, a previous generation Audi TT S that pumps out 300hp with a chip while everything else is stock standard.
First of all, the new TT S’s electric powered steering doesn't communicate as well as the previous generation’s hydraulic setup. Secondly, the synthesized exhaust note of the new TT S is too consistent, it’s as if those laughter you hear when you watch American comedies, the exact same ones on and on again regardless of the dialogues. Whether I’m going uphill full throttle in 3rd gear, or I’m going downhill full throttle in 4th gear, the noise the car makes sound almost the same.
That’s it, no more complains.
This car drives. Ever since the A3, Audi seems to have figured out their achilles heel of having stiff rides once and for all. The new TT’s damping is so well sorted that road undulations are met with a reactive composure each and every time, and if you turn the Audi Drive Select into Individual mode, place everything in Dynamic mode but leave the suspension to Comfort, you’ll have a car that is very much alert in every aspect with a sensitive throttle, an urgent transmission response, but also a suspension that allows the car to translate more of the road cambers and the car’s mass reacting to physics, which you can then use to judge your inputs.
I may have boasted about my car’s horsepower earlier on, but I can drive much much faster in this TT S than I ever could in my heavy S4 Avant. The way the car yaws in repeated left-right bends is typical Audi fashion. While most seasoned drivers prefer BMW’s ‘light’ front that doesn’t counter your inputs in any but the most extreme of steering actions, Audi’s on the other hand tends to load up immediately as you turn, even if it’s just a slow turn in. Non-Audi owners might claim this is a prelude to the glorious understeering mess to come, but it actually isn’t, it’s just the way Audis are designed to let the driver feel how hard he/she is ‘pushing’ even when she isn’t. The sheer grip it has also allows you to really exploit the car.
This ‘thing’ that I just mentioned there, is the handling trait where Audi always claims “our customers like it that way” and also the reason why you can see a lot of novice drivers being able to drive a lot faster in Audis than they do in BMWs. Audis tend to prefer to ‘hold on tight’ rather than ‘go with the flow’; mastering this, and making use of its sheer grip available is the reason why quattro is banned in all races Audis participate in - they’re fast, even if it’s not as fun as others.
Another key factor to the TT S’s performance, is of course the excellent 6 speed S-Tronic transmission and its seamless coupling with the 2.0 TFSI that’s massaged to 286hp, power delivery is instant, and the transmission has virtually no hesitation. (Owners of heavily-boosted turbocharged vehicles will know how frustrating it is for that half a second lag between stomping the pedals before anything happens) Floor the throttle in the TT S and before you know it, it’s pulling illegal speeds. It’s fun to place the speed warning at 110km/h and see how often and how fast it beeps.
With just RM380 of road tax a year, you’re in a car where you can set the speed warning at 250km/h and actually hitting it most of the time - if you want to. (I’ve traveled 262km/h in an Audi that’s supposed to be limited to 250km/h, and that car’s rated 270hp - go figure). All in all, performance wise, you’d be hard pressed to want anything more. Yes, the Mercedes AMG 45 trio is rated 360hp, but when the ride quality is so bad, you’ll be struggling to put down two thirds of that kind of output. Having a beautifully weighted suspension is what makes a car perform, which is also why so many out there adore the Golf R, and of course, by default, the master in suspension - Ford, any Ford.
How comfortable is it?
It’s very quiet, sound insulation and ride quality is superb, the body is extremely rigid, coupled with an interior that’s so well made, you really can’t find many cabins you’ll be happier to sit in. Provided you’re stuffed in the back seats.
How economical is it?
6.9 litres/100km is the official figure, but a few days of hooning, the highest it ever got up to is just about 11 litres/100km, which is mightily impressive. I reckon if you buy the TT S, you should be doing about 8 litres/100km in the first month, then 15 litres/100km in the second month, 12 in the third, and then average out about 9 moving on as you no longer suffer the ‘New Performance Car Syndrome’ of hooning around even if it’s just a short drive.
When it comes to resale value, Audi S models traditionally enjoy very slow depreciation rates, and TTs also have slow depreciation rates, hence this should be very economical in the long run. But we’ve heard plans to introduce risk factor derived insurance coming soon, and as a sports car, the TT will be hit by it.
Conclusion
The TT is the cheapest proper luxury sports car you can buy at RM285k, whereas the TT S, given there’s a 56hp boost in power, the availability of the magnetorheological suspension, nicer seats and upholstery, larger rims and brakes, a sports exhaust and suspension system as well as a full set of exterior upgrades, is more than the sum of its parts in terms of value proposition. Add to the fact that it’s a 2+2 sports car, you can buy one even if you already have kids. Did I also mention it comes with a humongous boot?
The last thing that comes to mind, is that even if there are quite a number of beautiful used Audi R8 V8s around for about the same price, remember the TT S’s road tax is just RM380. There’s really nothing much quite like the TT out there except the Porsche 911 Carerra in terms of daily usability, fun and practicality all fused into one. Add to the fact that we live in a region with torrential rain, the TT S’ quattro drivetrain makes for one compelling sports car that sprints in the dry and dances in the rain.
Looking for an Audi TT? Find one now at
Carlist.my


VIDEO: All-New Audi R8 Caught On Track With Howling V10

Audi
 is rightly bullish about its new
R8
 retaining the naturally-aspirated engine of its predecessors while its competitors are looking at lower capacities and turbochargers in their new iterations, so much so that its released a video of the new range-topping 610 hp V10 Plus model being driven in a manner that’s “good for video” by Nurburgring 24 Hour winner Frank Stippler and in doing so, demonstrating the V10’s full vocal capacity.
In his German way, Heinz Hollerweger, Managing Director of Quattro GmbH, explains the goals his team undertook when developing the new R8. Bringing experience gained from Audi’s motorsports division and infusing that with the best aspects of the first-generation model. He waxes on about the flat profile and aerodynamic front, punctuated by aggressive angular lines throughout. Its a little difficult to appreciate how different this new version is until we can see it without the camouflage covering the unit in the video, but I’m sure Mr Hollerweger isn’t kidding around.
The electric power steering system is sure to make some purists mourn the loss of hydraulic power steering all over again, possibly being a trade-off made to retain the naturally-aspirated engine under new emission regulations.
The soundtrack has always been a defining feature of the R8 all the way back its 4.2 V8-engined first generation model, and its an especially welcome differentiating factor in today’s sports car market.
The full unveil will take place during the 2015 Geneva Motor Show where some have speculated on Audi adding a surprise all-electric or hybrid model to the new R8 lineup.


Perodua Launches UFirst Customer Loyalty Programme

Perodua
 has set in motion its most comprehensive loyalty programme yet, one that rewards the customer when he or she purchases any of its products, services, or even participates in official Perodua events.

“This programme, which we named ‘UFirst: Perodua passport for brighter and better days’ aims to offer the best programme for our valued customers. The name UFirst represents our commitment in placing our customers’ needs first in our offerings and in building lasting relationships with them,” said Perodua President & CEO, Datuk Aminar Rashid Salleh said.

All that’s needed to be a part of this programme is to register at Perodua’s website, from there the customer is eligible to collect points which they can later use to redeem products, services, exclusive merchandise, and participate in promotions or contests.

While other programmes by automakers offer similar reward schemes, UFirst welcomes all members of the public, above 18 years old, and it doesn’t matter if they own a Perodua vehicle or otherwise.

Members would be able to track points they have accumulated, be alerted of offers, receive motoring tips, and even access a one-tap call function for road side assistance and emergency services, all through a mobile app that Perodua will be releasing for the programme in September.

“The first activity we are planning for UFirst is an Adventure Quest drive to an agro farm in Kluang, Johor from 3 to 4 October.

Participants will enjoy a package worth RM480 at minimum entry fee of RM108, and stand a chance to win cash prizes as well as many exciting gadgets.  Members who register from 1 to 31 Aug will also enjoy an extra value of more than RM80 from our early bird package.” Aminar said.

For more information, you can head over to
Perodua
’s website or check out their
Facebook page
.


Meet Jack, The Audi A7 That Drives Itself

Audi is providing members of the public with a taste of what’s to come with demonstration drives on board an Audi A7 piloted driving concept vehicle, nicknamed ‘Jack’.
Customer trips in ‘Jack’ start in the myAudi Sphere at Munich airport and goes via the Autobahn A9 – part of the Audi’s “Digital Motorway Test Bed”. The journey takes circa 60 mins with normal traffic flow, with an Audi expert always on board.
After the journey participants are asked for their opinion, with their impressions incorporated into the development of future automated driving functions. Opportunities to ride in “Jack” start today and run through to August with potential test drivers targeted via various communications channels, including social media sites run by Audi Germany.
Audi has already used the A7 piloted driving concept test vehicle on three continents since 2015.
On the A9 it can drive at speeds up to 130 km/h. It accelerates, brakes and changes lane predictively and smoothly while cooperating with other road users.
Audi intends to highlight the development of the central driver assistance controller – ‘zFAS’ uses signals from all the sensors to continuously generate a detailed image of the car’s surroundings.
The ‘zFAS’ module, roughly the size of a laptop is fitted for the first time as standard on the recently launched
Audi A8
, was developed for highly automated driving as per SAE Level 3.


Cycle & Carriage Berhad A Fierce Contender At Mercedes-Benz SEA II Skills Competition

A showroom and service centre is only as good as the people manning it, and as both cars and brands become more complex, both existing and new service professionals need to go through a far more intensive training process. This is true even up to luxury brands, and Mercedes-Benz is no different. To incentivize these professionals to study hard and learn their products and practices well, Mercedes-Benz has hosts a Skills Competition every 2 years where professionals from all around Southeast Asia can compete to see who is the best at their job.
This year's competition saw many entrants putting fighting for top spot, and 11 out of 25 finalists were from Cycle & Carriage Berhad - the highest to represent a single dealership within the Southeast Asian region. The competition included both theory and practical challenges, ranging from general technical knowledge to specific knowledge regarding the Mercedes-Benz brand. Performance in a practical context was also judged based on safety, quality, skill, product knowledge, and organization of work. Judging was conducted by specialists from Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.
With the biggest contingent of service professionals qualifying for the finals Cycle & Carriage, bagged multiple trophies in the Qualified Parts Process Specialist (QPPS), Qualified System Technician (QST), Certified Diagnostic Technician (CDT), Certified Service Advisor (CSA), and Advanced Modern Apprenticeship categories. The categories mirrored the various service professionals present at service centres serving Mercedes-Benz customers today across Peninsular and East Malaysia. The deserving winners were also presented with a medal and cash prize ranging from RM500 to RM10,000.
As these professionals represent not just Cycle & Carriage but Malaysia, we can be proud that they have proven their worth in such a competitive environment. Cycle & Carriage has the largest dealership network for Mercedes-Benz in Malaysia, with 13 dealerships in their name.


Spyshots: Hyundai Ioniq Spotted In Shah Alam

Is Hyundai launching a hybrid model in Malaysia? That possibility was teased earlier this year when the company put the Ioniq
on display at the My Auto Fest 2016
 exhibition held in Mines Convention Centre (MIECC) earlier this year.
Today, an anonymous reader sent us images of the same vehicle being spotted in the vicinity of Shah Alam. We can’t spot any building markers, but judging from the fact that the vehicle was being driven into a building compound, we are speculating that this picture was taken outside the complex of Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors’ HQ in Glenmarie.
The HSDM complex in Glenmarie is a regional training centre for Hyundai; we have, over the years, spotted many different Hyundai models on the premises grounds that were never introduced or even considered for introduction in our market. As such, this does not necessarily mean that the Ioniq is slated for introduction for Malaysia, although the possibility is there.
Similar to the
Prius for Toyota
, the Ioniq is conceived by Hyundai to be a
dedicated electrified-propulsion-only model
 without a regular petrol or diesel variant. Unlike the Prius, however, the Ioniq also offers the option of a full electric powertrain in addition to hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants.
The hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants feature a 1.6-litre Atkinson cycle petrol direct injection engine generating 105PS and 147Nm. In combination with outputs of 43.5PS and 170Nm from its electric motor, the powertrain setup generates a net system output of 141PS. Drive goes to the front wheels via a 6-speed dual clutch transmission.


Mercedes-AMG GT R Officially Launched, 585 hp, 318 km/h, Est RM 1.7 Million

If you're a fan of all things fast, by now you should know what the Mercedes-AMG GT R is. The most extreme form of the Mercedes-AMG GT, the GT R has been making its rounds on the internet and dominating the conversation- after all, it is the most extreme Mercedes product currently available that's actually road legal.
A little earlier in the year we got to
test it and we were properly impressed
, but the beast of the green hell is finally here. Mercedes-Benz Malaysia launched the GT R at Sepang International Circuit, continuing the onslaught of Mercedes-AMG models made available this year.
Let's do a quick run down of the specifications. Here are the big numbers: 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8, 585 hp at 6250 rpm, 700 Nm from 1900 rpm, and a 7-speed dual clutch transmission to send everything to the rear wheels. All of this amounts to a 0-100 km/h time of just 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 318 km/h.
If you're at all interested in fuel consumption figures, it manages to return 11.4 litres per 100 kilometres based on combined cycle testing- not that this would ever really be a deciding factor for someone looking to purchase a car like this.
Perhaps the biggest number of all is the price: an estimated RM 1.7 Million, on-the-road, without insurance. That's a pretty hefty price, but it goes head to head with the recently launched Porsche 911 GT3 which provides an interesting comparison.
In addition to packing an immense amount of performance, the Mercedes-AMG GT R has a few tricks up its sleeves. While rear wheel steering may not be anything new (the Japanese had it in the early 90s), it has become entirely necessary among supercars to keep them competitive, and the GT R follows this trend.
The system steers the rear wheels in the opposite direction to the front wheels below 100 km/h and steers them in the same direction as the front wheels above 100 km/h. The maximum amount of steering at the rear is 1.5 degrees in either direction.
More obvious from the outside are changes to the aerodynamics. Where the Mercedes-AMG GT has cleaner lines and smooth curves, the GT R features all kinds of vents and sharp edges design to get air going to the right places. There's a small yet aggressive rear wing that helps to differentiate it most immediately from the GT, along with the more aggressive wheel design and lower side sills.
Even from an electronics perspective there has been a fair bit of revision. Modern race cars tend to have a form of adjustable traction control, which drivers will constantly adjust depending on the condition of the track. With ESP OFF, the driver can then adjust a rotary dial that allows for varying degrees of slip (or how much it allows you to drift in layman's terms).
There are 9 steps, with Number 1 meant for driving in slippery conditions when you don't want it to be sideways everywhere, and Number 9 meant for obliterating rear tyres. It's a nice touch, although we doubt the average driver is ever going to fiddle around with it much.
Ultimately this represents the pinnacle of performance for Mercedes-AMG in this generation, and whoever manages to purchase one of these is very lucky indeed. It's a car that is more than the sum of the improvements made, all of which have truly made this a road-legal race car.


2022 Geely Boyue X Launched In China - From RM73,000

The 2022 Geely Boyue X has been launched in China, replacing the Boyue Pro. Prices for the 2022 Boyue X start from 112,800 yuan (RM73,000) to 142,800 yuan (RM93,000).

So for those still in the dark, the original Geely Boyue is what has become known to us here in Malaysia as the Proton X70. Since the X70's launch in December of 2018,
CKD in 2020
 the Boyue has undergone further iterations in China, firstly with the Boyue Pro and now with the Boyue X. Since it's been about three years since the launch of the Proton X70 in Malaysia, is it time for a facelift? Might we see a Proton X70 X for 2022?

But firstly what is the
Boyue X
?

Variants

Four variants of the 2022 Boyue X have gone on sale in China ranging in price from RM73,000 for the entry-level variant to RM93,000 for the range-topper.

Powertrain

All four variants of the 2022 Boyue X will receive the 1.8-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine pumping out 184 PS and 300 Nm of torque. All this power will be transmitted to the wheels via a seven-speed DCT gearbox. The exact same powerplant is currently found in the Proton X70.

Exterior

The Geely Boyue X will be the first of the Geely range to feature the new Vision Starbust design concept. The front fascia has been redesigned with an X-like brand new grille and bumper and Geely's black emblem. The orange trim pieces do create a nice contrast on this new face. 19-inch alloys wrapped in 225/55 R19 tyres, with orange brake calipers further enhances the youthful appeal of this new Boyue X. How long till we see a
Boyue X
 tearing through Sepang you think?

Interior

That bold exterior is further reflected in the interior with a blue and white finishing creating once again a nice contrast on the dashboard and seats. If blue and white is not your color of choice then you have the option of red and black for the dash of sporty. A 12.3-inch instrument cluster with 12 Bose speakers for the higher-end variants rounds off the interior very nicely. The Boyue X will come equipped with Geely's Milky Way infotainment software offering Huawei connectivity.

So do we want the Boyue Pro or the Boyue X for the Proton X70 facelift? Do we want it in 2022? With the new year being approximately 80 days away, we await to see what
Proton has in store
 for us in 2022.


Only 1,921 Vehicles Sold In June 2021, Says MAA

Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) reports that the total number of new vehicles sold in June 2021 was just 1,921 units. The economic slowdown brought about by the tightening social and commercial restrictions has meant that the automotive industry has been brought to a crawl.

This marks a dramatic year-on-year plunge of 95.7 percent. By contrast, in June 2020, just after the first Movement Control Order was implemented and subsequently relaxed, the MAA recorded 44,755 new vehicles sold.

To nobody’s surprise, this coincides perfectly with the start of a nationwide lockdown that is still ongoing,
beginning on June 1st
, with some parts of Selangor and Kuala Lumpur being placed

under an Enhanced Movement Control Order. Currently, car dealers and production facilities are deemed non-essential and therefore not allowed to operate.

"Minimal sales recorded for June 2021 were spilled-over registrations from end of May 2021. Currently, only motor vehicle workshops are allowed to operate,” said MAA president Datuk Aishah Ahmad during a virtual press conference last week.

Passenger vehicles accounted for the majority of the 1,921 vehicles sold last month with 1,841 units. Meanwhile, only 80 commercial vehicle units were transacted. This trend of dismal sales is expected to continue into July 2021’s numbers too as only showrooms in Sabah were allowed to operate under Phase 2 of the National Recovery Plan.

As the majority of vehicle assembly and component manufacturing takes place in Selangor and certain parts of Kuala Lumpur, June 2021 saw just 276 units produced compared to 45,044 units in June 2020, marking a 99.4 percent drop.

That all being said, in spite of the numerous restrictions, it was also reported that new car registration has increased by 43.5 percent to 249,129 units for the year to date (up to June 2021) compared to 173,545 units registered until the same period in 2020.

At the very least, this shows an
underlying healthy demand
 for new cars within the population that is being impeded by the currently implemented restrictions. Hopefully, when showrooms open and vehicle production resumes once again, they will be met by ravenous new customers in the automotive marketplace.


Rivian Announces Pricing For The R1T

I first came across the Rivian in the Long Way Home and boy have I been itching for one since, and at a starting price of RM278,000++, I just might be able to afford it - if I sold a kidney.

Rivian last week officially revealed the pricing and specifications of the R1T. Three variants will initially be on offer, the Explore starting from USD 67,500 (RM278,273) to the Adventure and Launch Editions starting from USD 75,000 (RM309,192).

The Rivian will go up against
Tesla's Cybertruck
, the Bollinger B2 (which I also happen to be subscribed to),
Ford F-150 Electric
, and the
GMC Hummer EV
. Of all the mentioned models one must admit the Rivian looks the most futuristic of the lot though I would have to give to the Hummer for its looks or even the Bollinger for its classic old meets news face.

So what are the powertrain specifications of the Rivian's R1T Mid-spec variant?

Motor: Quad-electric motor setup

Horsepower: 754hp (562 kW)

Torque: 1,120 Nm

Battery: 135 kWh lithium-ion

Range: approximately 483km

The Explore and Adventure Editions will be delivered beginning January 2022 while the Launch is scheduled to be delivered in June 2021.

A base version and a long-range version is also in the pipeline following the initial launch of the R1T.

Potential buyers of the Explore variant will also be getting a manual tonneau for the bed, heated seats (which we won't need), black interior finishing, vegan leather upholstery, 100% recyclable material floor mats but more importantly over-the-air updates will also come standard. The list continues with automatic climate control, a digital instrument cluster, and a touchscreen infotainment system.

Safety and driver assistance systems come standard across the range with Rivian's Driver+. All variants will be equipped with 11 cameras, five radar sensors, and 12 ultrasonic sensors to assist with autonomous driving. We are as of yet uncertain what level of autonomous driving the Rivian's will come equipped with.

If you've watched episode six of the Long Way you'll know how hardy the Rivian can be even in the harshest of conditions and these are Rivians that were mere prototypes that were rushed into working models for the Long Way Up - testaments don't come better than that.

Gauging by the popularity of the much more expensive
Porsche Taycan
 here locally, (which we love by the way) I hope a wealthy or environmentally conscious Malaysia/Malaysians bring one in because I'd love to review it/ drive it.

All we need now is to get to cracking on expanding our charging infrastructure eh...