Live From Italy: Technical Details Of The All New Audi A4 B9 For The Tech Geek In You

Here at Carlist,
from the moment our friends in China scooped the first images
, to the time
we covered the all new 2016 Audi A4 B9 extensively
 when it was launched, and then showing you
how the Virtual Cockpit works
; we're not only the largest automotive website that sells the most cars in Malaysia, but the fastest in delivering news as well.

So, to bring you closer to the scene,
we've travelled all the way to Venice, Italy;
to bring you first hand information on how the all new 2016
Audi A4
 drives, whether it's comfortable, and
how does it compare to the current Audi A4 B8
, and of course how it matches up to its nemesis, the BMW 3-Series, and the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
Will it have what it takes to secure its position amidst such strong and convincing rivals? You can
read the full test drive here
. This page, on the other hand, will be delving into the technical details of the all new Audi A4.
POWER & EFFICIENCY
Though bigger in size, Audi managed to reduce the weight of the A4 B9, and at the same time reduced its fuel consumption as well as increase its power output drastically. And last but not least, introduced class leading features while delivering class leading levels of comfort, ergonomics, and handling.
When it came to developing the new A4's drivetrain, Audi gave themselves a target of achieving a 25% overall increase in power whilst attaining a 21% lower fuel consumption figure. To achieve that, Audi spent a tremendous amount of time honing the A4's body in the wind tunnel, thus clothing the new A4 in a body that would give it the world's lowest drag coefficient of any production car, at only 0.23Cd. On top of that,
 Audi's engineers managed to developed a new range of engines, as listed below.
Below are the engines newly developed for the Audi A4 B9:
1.4 TFSI with 150hp and 250Nm
2.0 TFSI with 190hp and 320Nm (ultra)
2.0 TFSI with 252hp and 370Nm
2.0 TDI with 150hp and 320Nm (ultra)
2.0 TDI with 190hp and 400Nm
3.0 TDI with 218hp and 500Nm (ultra)
3.0 TDI with 272hp and 600Nm
One very important new progress Audi has made in developing their new powertrain trange is differentiating their engines that veer towards performance in power delivery, or performance in fuel efficiency. Hence Audi developed the 2.0 TFSI, 2.0 TDI and 3.0 TDI to have an Ultra variant, which employs different measures to save fuel.
In terms of transmission, Audi has developed three new transmissions, the standard 6-speed manual which was paired to the 1.4TFSi variants they prepared for our test drive, a newly developed 7-speed S-Tronic wet clutch transmission that will be available for all engine variants except the 3.0TDI in its 600Nm tune, and an 8-speed torque converter Tiptronic which is made available only for that 600Nm 3.0TDI variant.
Audi's new ideology for the A4, which I strongly believe will be applied across its entire range, is to include a new Design Line to accompany its established S-Line to have a clear differentiator between owner's preferences. So as the nomenclature suggests, one's sportier, one's prettier. The differentiations between the two 'Line' options is to be seen on the car's trim and fitments. Next up, the party piece of the A4, a  first-in-segment feature, the Virtual Cockpit.
TECHNOLOGY & CONVENIENCE
The ambient lighting in the new A4 doesn't just boast a few choices of customisation, but offers a full 30 colour spectrum, which you can mix and match different colour combinations to your liking. You can have blue lighting for the footwell but illuminate the door panels in pink, which is unnecessary, but awesome nevertheless.
You can also specify the car with the rear seat entertainment Audi tablet. These tablets, which runs on the Android operating system, are detachable and can be used like any other regular Android tablet. Only that these tablets comes nicely finished with a beautiful bezel, and wearing the Audi logo, of course.
One might be quick to assume that it is a waste of money, but Audi took extra precaution in ensuring its safety and assures us that the rear seat entertainment tablets utilises glass that won't shatter in the event of a car accident, and is much stronger than the already hefty Gorilla glass that is used on regular tablets.
The rear seat entertainment tablets can also access the MMI's shared WiFi connection and access the car's jukebox, but of course certain functions are off limits.
You wouldn't think much of your regular air-conditioning buttons, but Audi's engineers seem to have poured a fair amount of thought and effort into giving it a sophisticated look and feel. The climate control is operated through beautifully crafted metallic buttons on the centre console that are touch-sensitive as well. This is a marked departure from Audi's very familiar climate control systems, which all Audi owners have gotten used to. Key to this rethink in its design was to cater for Audi's new in-car air diffuser concept, which we will go into detail later. Its operational aspects of this new layout is pretty straightforward, the knobs with the integrated LCD displays will show the temperature, and can be adjusted via the circular housing itself. As for the buttons, touching them will activate it's corresponding column's options, and then you either toggle up or down the selection.
Upon pressing the exact button to choose how you would like the airflow, the diffuser vent (on top of the quattro badge shown in the picture below) is activated. What this does is that it delivers the same volume of air into the cabin, but diffuses that volume of air so that it doesn't blast air directly at the passenger's face. Genius, a first-in-class feature that owes its inspiration from the Volkswagen Phaeton.
As for the rear passengers, there's now heated rear seats and the temperature control panel. Though considering how much changes and improvements have been done to the dashboard, we feel that this rear panel could've been better designed.
Coming back to the 8.8" centre mounted display, no it is not retractable like it is in the A3. But with everything so neatly integrated into the car's systems and working in tandem with each other, it is unlikely one can operate the car's features entirely without relying on the screen half of the time. And the MMI system controls everything, most impressive of which is overlaying Google Maps into the SatNav. Not only so, you can actually customise a list of newsfeeds into the MMI, and once it receives any news updates, the system can even read the news for you. Serious, it is having your own personal newsreader.
And if you're travelling towards a distant location using the SatNav, you can also recieve information on the weather of the location you're headed too.

This integration with location based features is the biggest difference Audi's MMI has over its other rivals. In a sense the MMI system has now progressed to a point of becoming 'Smart' or 'Location Aware'. The Matrix LED headlights for instance, can point itself in the direction of an approaching bend, based on the information it has read off the satellite navigation system, well before the driver could dial in any steering movement. Not just limited to lighting tricks, the Adaptive Crusie Control system will also use the information gleamed from the satellite navigation to determine whether to ease off the throttle when a corner is approaching, to save fuel. This is a very clever application of integrated technologies.
Another awesome feature, is again based on your satellite navigation's location and destination, the car can prioritise which petrol station that is cheapest to refuel at, and singles out stations that are closest to the route planned out in the satellite navigation system when the fuel level runs low. Audi has placed in so much effort into the MMI, that if I were to explore every feature, I won't even have time to drive the car. So here's a quick explanation on everything:
The car interfaces with both Apple CarPlay and Google Play
It also allows you to access to Apple's Siri, Google Now, or Microsoft's Cortana voice assistant
There's an integrated WiFi hotspot, and the car can be set to read out Messages, Emails or Twitters that you have recieved.
Supports Digital Radio and online music streaming
Reads you your news from the RSS feeds (as mentioned)
Checks fuel prices for you that is in your current vicinity or towards your destination (as mentioned)
Checks the weather of the location you're at or the one you're headed to
Information of famous locations are accessible, so if you drove up to something interesting, the MMI can pull information on the point of interest for you to know more (e.g. If you stopped at Trafalgar square in London, and it'll tell you about its significance to the Battle of Trafalgar and how it established Britain's naval supremacy)
Satellite Navigation wise, by overlaying Google Earth, Audi made the best In car satellite navigation system, but still, where is Waze's traffic information and navigation alglorithms?
To simplify zooming in and out of Google Earth's maps, the touch-sensitive surface of the MMI Touch controller, not only enables handwriting recognition for quick searches, but also employs the same pinch and zoom finger movements that is commonplace on any smartphone or tablets today.
Ok, moving away from the dash, the center console is more or less looks the same, except there is now a Qi inductive charging, a rubberized panel that can be used to wirelessly charge your Samsung Galaxy (iPhones doesn't come with Qi inductive charging features)
Inside the centre console you would find two USB ports and an AUX port, so that you can plug your mobile devices in and enjoy its glorious recreation on the car's Bang & Olufsen sound system, which is among the best sound systems available in this segment.
And also one of the ugliest in terms of speaker faceplate design. Seriously?
TECHNOLOGY & SAFETY
Now to the heavy technical stuff, the features which Audi has stuffed into the A4 which, infrared red night vision aside, are features that you would find comparable to those fitted in the latest German luxury flagships.
Let's get the ball rolling on the boring stuffs. The new A4 is fitted with so many advanced systems which makes this one of the safest cars out there in terms of active safety systems. And all these safety systems are able to perform their roloes thanks to an advanced software that allows all these systems to talk to each other.
First off, let's have a look at Turn Assist. What this does, is that as you activate your turn signals to turn into a road at a junction, the car will monitor oncoming traffic that is coming down the opposite lane, and prepares the brakes in case the driver made a wrong judgement in anticipating the approaching speed of the oncoming traffic. If the system determines an accident is imminent, the system will automatically apply the brakes. This feature should be able to reduce a huge number of accidents year in year out. Watch the video below to understand more.

The turn assist employs the following features to function, and these features are also working with others to achieve different aspects of the new A4's safety assistance systems.
Next up, is the Predictive Efficiency Assistant, which uses the car's satellite navigation as well as the on-board systems to judge whether there's an inclination, or downhill, or a bend coming up to adjust throttle input. Crazy stuff.
Next up, Traffic Jam Assistant, which literally takes over for you during traffic jam so that the morning rush hour is way less stressful.

Exit Warning Assistant, which monitors traffic from behind and alarms the driver should it detect an impending danger from an approaching car or cyclist upon alighting the car.

Audi's Pre-sense City Pedestrian Assistant

Park Assist System

Rear Cross Traffic Assistant

Overall, madness. Now the only question to ask if just what will the car be specified with when it arrives in Malaysia.


Lorry Driver Killed In 5 Vehicle Accident Along NSE Near Nilai

This afternoon at KM280 of the North-South Expressway, an accident involving 5 vehicles occurred when a trailer lorry on the northbound lane veered across the barrier into oncoming southbound traffic.

It impacted another trailer lorry travelling northbound as well as two cars (looks to be a silver Mercedes-Benz E-Class and red Mitsubishi Outlander) and a motorcycle leaving one deceased, four others injured, and one managing to escape unhurt.

It goes without saying that this caused long stretches of the highway to be clogged at a standstill as first responders worked to manage the situation.

The Malaysian Highway Authority had advised motorists to avoid that stretch of highway and find alternative routes to their destination. Contra-flows were initiated to disperse the 5km-long traffic jams that ensued.

Clips of the accident have gone viral, taken from the perspective of individuals on foot at the scene as well as of windscreen-mounted dashcams.

The footage shows driver of the northbound lorry suddenly and mysteriously losing control before cutting across two lanes before ploughing through the guardrail and into the path of oncoming southbound vehicles.

At this time it is not known what caused the driver’s sudden loss of control.


Renault-Nissan Alliance to Attack the Light Commercial Vehicle Business

The Renault-Nissan Alliance today announced that it is creating a light commercial vehicle business unit to expand its global presence in this growing segment.
By unleashing the full potential of Renault’s van expertise and Nissan’s truck know-how in key markets, the alliance said that it intends to grow its light commercial vehicle sales worldwide.

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 The alliance also added that partners will leverage complementary markets and products while maintaining their own brand identity, sales and revenue.
“The combination of Renault, Nissan and the early collaboration with Mitsubishi Motors in a single Alliance LCV Business Unit will boost sales and deliver greater synergies,” Alliance Chairman and CEO Carlos Ghosn said.
“With this move, we plan to expand our market leadership by accelerating our performance in current and new, high-growth markets, based on each company’s core products and market knowledge, and driven by customer needs.”
The Renault-Nissan LCV Business Unit will be led by Ashwani Gupta as Alliance senior vice president, who will report straight to Carlos Ghosn.
It is said that the unit will continue to maximize cross-development and cross-manufacturing, and is expected to deliver further synergies in costs and technology.
Renault and Nissan have established cross-production of vans and trucks over the last several years; for example, the Nissan NV300 van is built on the Renault Trafic platform; the Nissan NV400 van is built on the Renault Master platform; and the Renault Alaskan pickup is built on the Nissan Navara platform.
The new Renault-Nissan LCV Business Unit will also handle Nissan’s body-on-frame SUVs, including the Nissan Armada and Nissan Patrol.


Ford To Have Majority Of Its Vehicles Equipped With Front & Rear Cameras By 2020

To help drivers see around corners or past obstacles,
Ford
 has come up with a few new vehicle camera technologies that could potentially help avoid accidents while reducing driver stress.
The camera system is made up of two cameras, positioned on the grille and tailgate, that enables drivers to see obstructions in the vehicle’s path through the 180-degree view of each camera.
Each feed is displayed as a split view from the camera’s 1-megapixel sensor and ultra-wide-angle lens array. The vehicle, equipped with a tri-panel display layout, shows the driver whether the obstacle is coming from either side or straight on.
Once the vehicle speed exceeds 10km/h, the split view from the camera feed shuts off but can be reactivated at the touch of a button. The setup also includes telescopic jet washer to periodically clean the lens.
Thus far, this split view functionality was only available on the 2015 Ford Edge and 2016 Ford Explorer in the United States, however the automaker has plans to roll out the technology to its global portfolio of vehicles.
They say it will be offered on nearly all Ford SUVs – such as the
Kuga
 and more compact
EcoSport
 -  around the world by 2020, and the majority of all its vehicles by that time as well. That means the Ford intends to roll out more than 2 million new cameras a year for use on the road. In the near term, however, front split view will be coming to the all-new Ford
S-MAX
 and Ford Galaxy in the European market.
Camera systems like these aren't new to us. Mercedes-Benz, for example, employs a 360-degree camera in their higher-end vehicles, and you'll find the same in other top-shelf premium cars as well. Ford's 180-degree system does appear to us as a slightly more affordable system. One which they're looking to extend to all its vehicles in time to come. Good on them, we say.


AD: Experience Volkswagen This Weekend – Raya Promotions, Test Drives, Driver Training

Demarcated zones for you to test a Volkswagen’s acceleration, braking, and agility. Fun filled activities for the children by Kidzania, radio controlled race cars, racing simulators. Stand a chance to win preloaded Touch ‘N Go cards and Caltex petrol vouchers by just registering your interest and complete a test drive.
This coming weekend’s Carlist.my MAA DRIVE Test and Buy event in Setia Alam is an ideal way to spend the weekend with your family while you shop for your next car.
Happening at the Setia City Convention Centre on May-13 and May-14, the event will allow buyers to test drive and compare over 50 different vehicle models from 15 different brands in one location.
There will be section for used car trade-ins. Interested in buying a new car but am not too sure about what your current car is worth? Drive your car to the event and have one of our two independent partner used-car dealers to give you a quotation on your car’s value.
Visitors are encouraged to visit to Volkswagen brand pavilion, where there is a wide range of activities planned out, to allow you to experience the superior performance, active safety as well as agile handling of Volkswagen in ways that you normally wouldn’t be able to in a regular showroom visit test drive.
Volkswagen Driving Experience
A wide range of Volkswagen models, from the entry model Polo 1.6 MPI hatchback, to the 1.2 TSI turbocharged Vento sedan Highline and 1.4 TSI Jetta, right up to the 1.4 TSI Tiguan Highline with its first in-class full-LCD Active Information Display instrument panel, and the 1.8 TSI Passat Comfortline, are available for you to try out on a dedicated area.
There, you will experience the agility of Volkswagen models first-hand as you attempt a slalom course and simulated emergency obstacle avoidance, as well as emergency braking.
Separately, you can also test drive these Volkswagen models on public roads, to better feel its superior cabin quietness and ride comfort. Don’t believe the claims, come and experience it for yourself as this test drive event organized by Carlist.my and the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) invites members of the public to test drive cars from 15 different brands side by side.
Register your interest for a test drive by signing up
here
.
The first 400 persons to register and complete a test drive will receive a Caltex petrol voucher worth RM30. In addition to that, lucky winners will be selected to win limited edition Carlist.my Touch ‘N Go cards preloaded with RM30.
Volkswagen Polo P
Driving schools teach you the most basic of driving skills but they don’t equip young drivers with sufficient technical skills to handle modern day traffic situation. The Volkswagen Polo P programme is aimed at young drivers, equipping them with simple to pick-up but essential defensive driving skills.
In this programme, participants will be thought on basics of correct seating position and steering wheel control techniques, as well correct use of vision.
You may reserve a seat at the Volkswagen Polo P programme by signing up
here
.
Raya promotions
In conjunction with the upcoming Hari Raya celebrations, Volkswagen is offering cash rebates on selected Volkswagen models purchased between now until 31-July 2017.
Purchases made during this period will also be eligible for preferential interest rate for auto financing, made possible by Carlist.my’s partnership with Public Bank.
Model
Available from
Savings
Polo
RM 25/day
RM 7,000
Vento
RM 25/day
RM 11,000
Jetta
RM 35/day
RM 10,000
Golf
RM 45/day
RM 21,000
Passat Comfortline
RM 51/day
RM 15,000
Passat Trendline
RM 51/day
RM 15,000
Tiguan Comfortline
RM 51/day
RM 5,000
Volkswagen will also be unveiling its latest model - the special edition Volkswagen Polo ALLSTAR, priced at RM72,888 Available in Carbon Steel Grey, Reflex Silver, Candy White and Flash Red, the model comes with RM6,000 worth of exclusive accessories such as leather seats, aluminium pedals, rear spoiler, black door strips, ‘ALLSTAR’ scuff plates, emblems and carpet mats.
The Carlist.my MAA Drive Test and Buy event opens from 10am to 10pm, May-13 to May-14, at the Setia City Convention Centre (Hall 1 and Hall 2). Admission is free.
If you do not wish to drive, you may want to make use of the GrabCar promo code CARLISTDRIVE to enjoy a RM15 discount off your GrabCar ride to/from Setia City Convention Centre.


Tips Parking Kereta Di Kawasan Berbukit/Curam Bagi Kereta Automatik Dan Manual

Sekiranya anda meletakkan/ parking kenderaan di kawasan curam dan
berbukit
, tarikan graviti boleh membuatkan kenderaan anda bergolek menuruni bukit sekiranya tidak diletakkan dengan betul.

Untuk mengelakkan perkara seperti itu daripada terjadi, anda perlulah tahu cara-cara meletakkan kenderaan di kawasan berbukit atau curam. Yang paling penting, pastikan anda menggunakan brek parkir atau brek kecemasan (handbrake) dan pusingkan tayar ke arah yang betul untuk mengelakkan kereta anda daripada bergolek ke bawah dan berpotensi untuk merosakkan harta benda dan orang awam.

Oleh itu, jom kita lihat beberapa tips sekiranya anda meletakkan kereta di kawasan berbukit seperti berikut:

Bukit Menaik

Apabila meletakkan kereta di bahagian menaik, pusingkan
tayar
ke arah berlawanan daripada arah tembok tepi jalan dan biarkan kereta anda mengundur ke belakang secara perlahan-lahan sehingga bahagian belakang tayar hadapan anda menyentuh tembok tepi jalan tersebut. Dengan cara ini, sekiranya kereta anda mengundur ke belakang, tayar depan anda akan dihalang oleh tembok jalan sekaligus menghalang kereta daripada bergolek ke bawah.

Bukit Menurun

Jika kereta anda diletakkan pada kawasan bukit yang menurun, pusingkan tayar hadapan anda menghadap ke arah tembok sisi jalan. Sama seperti proses tadi, biarkan kenderaan anda bergolek ke hadapan secara perlahan sehingga tayar hadapan anda menyentuh tembok jalan tersebut dan menjadikan tembok itu sebagai penghalang sekiranya kereta anda bergolek ke hadapan.

Jika Tiada Tembok Jalan?

Jika bukit tempat anda letakkan kenderaan itu tidak mempunyai tembok
jalan
yang boleh digunakan sebagai penghalang, sentiasalah memusingkan tayar kearah berlawanan daripada arah
trafik
bagi mengelakkan kereta anda daripada bergolek ke arah jalan. Ketika memusingkan stereng, elakkan untuk memusingkan
stereng
ketika kereta berhenti sepenuhnya (dry steering) untuk menghalang tekanan pada tayar dan sistem power steering kereta.

Kereta Automatik

Untuk meletakkan
kereta automatik
 di kawasan berbukit, anda perlu untuk menekan brek semasa gear masih lagi pada kedudukan ‘D’ untuk memberhentikan kenderaan terlebih dahulu. Seterusnya, tarik handbrake dan tukar gear ‘D’ kepada ‘P’ dan matikan enjin kereta anda.

Secara teknikalnya, jika anda menggunakan brek kaki dan menukar gear ‘D’ kepada ‘P’, lalu melepaskan brek kaki anda sebelum menarik handbrake, beban kereta akan terletak pada gear kereta ketika brek kaki dilepaskan. Perkara ini berpotensi untuk betul-betul mendatangkan masalah kepada kereta anda dalam jangka masa panjang kerana sekiranya kereta anda bergerak walaupun hanya 1 atau 2 inci sahaja setelah anda menukar gear ‘D’ kepada ‘P’, ini akan mengakibatkan tekanan pada parking pawl pada gear anda untuk memberhentikan kenderaan, bukanlah pada brek. Parking pawl merupakan pin atau kunci pada transmisi kereta anda dan malangnya, kunci gear ini boleh patah sekiranya perkara ini berlaku secara berterusan. Duit tu bang!

Cara yang betul
 adalah menarik handbrake sebelum menukar kepada gear ‘P’ kerana kita tidak mahu kereta bergerak serta berat kereta ditanggung oleh parking pawl semasa proses penukaran gear ‘D’ kepada gear ‘P’. Tambah-tambah apabila anda meletakkan kenderaan di kawasan yang berbukit. Jika dibiarkan berterusan, anda boleh mendengar sendiri bunyi ‘tendang’ pada kotak gear anda apabila anda ingin menukar gear ‘P’ ke ‘D’  ekoran bebanan yang ditanggung lama oleh
gearbox
ketika kereta ditinggalkan di kawasan parkir.

Kereta Manual

Untuk
kereta manual
, selepas selesai menarik handbrake, masukkan gear 1 atau reverse pada kereta dan tinggalkan sahaja kereta anda seperti itu. Jika anda meletakkan kereta di kawasan menaik, masukkan gear 1. Jika parkir di kawasan menurun, masukkan gear undur supaya kereta anda tidak bergerak memandangkan anda telah set transmisi ke arah berlawanan daripada arah graviti. Tak perlu risau lagi jika terdapat kegagalan pada sistem brek.

Itu sahaja
tips
penting yang perlu anda tahu jika meletakkan kereta di kawasan curam. Tak nak buat pun tak apa, tapi tak salah kalau berjaga-jaga kan? Kita pun tak tahu kalau tiba-tiba
sistem brek
 kereta tak berfungsi dan kereta bergolek ke bukit bawah sambil sapu semua rumah jiran. Satu hal pula nak membayarnya nanti.

Beringat sebelum terkena!

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

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Carlist.my.

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

Get the latest new car promotions at
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 website now.


2019 Toyota Vios – A Holistically Improved Package

If there’s one thing Toyota is good at, it is kaizen – or improvement – in progressive, sustainable ways. At times the company may seem a bit conservative in their design or their packaging, but you can be assured of unending reliability and solid resale value – perhaps the most important tenets of a car aimed squarely at the everyman.

Perhaps the best example of this is the Toyota Vios, which entered into its fourth generation at the beginning of this year.

While the 1.5-litre 2NR-FE dual VVTi engine and CVT-type automatic has been carried over from the last generation, numerous improvements to the chassis, tuning, and refinement have helped to make this a holistically improved car.

Much of the work of the engineers are not things that can be represented on a specification sheet, or seen through images – they must be experienced. In the same way the C-HR possesses sublime ride and handling that would shame luxury cars, the Vios is subtly refined and insulated in a way that you don’t notice, until you have to drive something else.

From wind noise reduction to additional insulation in the engine bay, it’s these small touches that separate the good from the merely decent.

One of the criticisms that has often been levelled at the Vios in the last few years has been its somewhat sparse list of options. But following the facelift of the previous generation, and more importantly the most current model, it’s really difficult to agree with this sentiment.

Even the base model comes with integrated LED daytime running lights, automatic headlights, seven airbags, and automatic air conditioning.

There’s also Toyota’s 360-T, a blanket term that encompasses the ownership experience. Safe-T Plus refers to the safety systems as standard (vehicle stability control and hill start assist in the case of the Vios), Connectivi-T ties together entertainment and connectivity, while Guaran-T is perhaps one the most famous Toyota qualities – reliability and peace of mind during ownership.

If you’re in the market for a Vios, prices range from RM 77,200 to RM 87,300 across three variants. Naturally the most appealing would be the range-topping Vios G, with its larger 16-inch rims, six-speaker audio system, Optitron meters, and paddle shifters.

But even if you’re willing to forgo these items, the mid-range Vios E still packs some nice options – especially with a 6.8-inch touch screen and Panoramic View Monitor that easily puts it a step above its rivals.

While there’s a close to RM 10,000 difference across the variants, what does that actually translate to in terms of financing? Looking at it in terms of five year loans with a 10% down payment and a 4% interest rate, the Vios J will cost you RM 1,389.60 in monthly repayments. The Vios E will set you back by RM 1,461.60 a month, while the Vios G goes for RM 1,571.40 a month.

Given that the used car values usually mirrors the price variance when new, it may not be the worst idea to treat yourself to the top of the line model – but no matter which you choose, it’s definitely not going to break the bank.

And despite its commuter car appearances, the Vios has proven to be a competent race-car as well, both within the series of the Vios Challenge and in local competition.

This year sees the third season of the Vios Challenge, and every team has migrated to this all-new model – albeit with a manual gearbox that just isn’t available for public consumption. With the race making its rounds around Malaysia, you can even check out the Vios for yourself if it rolls into your town.


It's Finally Here, Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia Debuts The New 2022 Land Rover Defender -From RM798k

The wait is finally over
, as Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia (JLRM) has launched the new 2022 Land Rover Defender 110, priced RM798k for the P300 and RM998k for the P400.

Arguably the world's
most iconic
 4x4 nameplate, the 2022 Defender you see in front of your very eyes is not the one you are used to seeing on the road, as it has been completely redesigned and re-engineered after serving people all over the world for more than 70 years.

Available in either a petrol 2.0L 300PS/400Nm (P300 model) and a petrol-hybrid 3.0L 400PS/550Nm (P400 model) MHEV powertrain, the 2022 Defender 110's engine options truly brings the 4x4 into the 21st century.

The
unmistakable silhouette
 is familiar yet new. It looks tough and is tough but designed with purpose and engineered to excite, driven by a passion and respect for the original Defender.

Built on
 Land Rover's lightweight aluminium monocoque construction of the new D7x architecture, the chassis is the stiffest body structure that the brand has ever produced – three times stiffer than the best body-on-frame designs in the market.

The new 2022 Defender also delivers a transformational breadth of capability and advanced all-terrain technologies to redefine adventure for the 21st century.

These
all-terrain technologies
 include Land Rover's famed ClearSight Ground View and Terrain Response system. Among the new great features of the Defender include:

3D Surround Camera coupled with new 3D exterior perspectives alongside a 360° overhead view makes manoeuvring easier, while off-road views including the innovative ClearSight Ground View provide the driver with more confidence when scaling various terrains. This feature displays a camera view of the front underside of the vehicle on the large central touchscreen – which under normal circumstances, would not be visible to the driver

Adaptive Dynamics with Electronic Air Suspension, allowing the driver to fine-tune driving characteristics. The system's adaptive dampers monitor body movements up to 500 times per second and respond almost instantaneously to optimise control and comfort in ensuring a composed flat ride.

Wading depth of 900mm, which makes it the first Land Rover to feature a Wade programme within the Terrain Response menu. The Wade Program in Terrain Response raises the vehicle using Electronic Air Suspension, while Wade Sensing uses ultrasonic sensors in the door mirrors to alert the driver visually and audibly if water approaches the vehicle's maximum wading depth.

State-of-the-art new Pivi Pro infotainment system that is supported by British-based Meridian Sound System.

Exterior

The characterful front-end of the 2022 Defender is tough but approachable, emphasised by the geometric forms of its highly technical headlamps, which feature round yet modern daytime running lights as well as Matrix LED projector lamps.

The beautifully sculptured fenders combined with squared wheel arches and strong shoulders all contribute to the vehicle's sense of solidity and robustness.

At the rear, the geometric forms continue with the distinctive vertical taillights, that harmonise perfectly with the front-end design. In addition, the sheer vertical rear end maintains the short overhang for a superior departure angle while maximising interior space and accentuating the vehicle's substantial shoulder section.

With minimal front and rear overhangs, the new 2022 Defender is instantly recognisable and provides excellent approach and departure angles.

The other familiar Defender elements for the 21st century are the upright stance and Alpine light windows in the roof, while retaining the side-hinged rear tailgate and externally-mounted spare wheel also make the new Defender as identifiable as the original.

The 2022 Defender also comes with 20" Style 5098, 5 Spoke, Gloss Sparkle Silver wheel with Off-Road tyres. As usual, the Defender also has a spare wheel at the rear.

Interior

On the inside, the interior architecture communicates its highly functional nature, which features a magnesium cross-car beam which is integral to the overall strength of the body architecture.

This structural die-cast magnesium alloy beam features integrated grab handles to aid entry but also as a secure grip when the vehicle is performing technical off-road manoeuvres.

The main controls, including the central touchscreen, are ergonomically clustered, and the durable and functional constructivist theme is consistent throughout the interior with visible features that retain the structural door casings while partially exposing the painted doors.

Capabilities

The 2022 Defender's body structure is higher by 20mm compared to the existing range of
large SUVs
 within the Land Rover line-up and relocating elements, including the battery and cooling circuits, has enabled vehicle engineers to deliver the ultra-short front and rear overhangs with a wheelbase of 3,022mm on the 2022 Defender 110 – 99mm longer than a
Land Rover Discovery
.

This new body architecture provides ground clearance of 291mm and exceptional off-road geometry, giving the Defender 110 approach, breakover and departure angles of 38, 28 and 40 degrees, respectively.

Towing and Carrying

The strong body architecture of the 2022 Defender helps customers make more of their adventures, especially if they want to tow heavy loads or carry them, and features a maximum towing capacity of 3,724Kg.

The ultra-strong body is ready for overland adventures, with a maximum dynamic roof load of 168kg, making it perfectly suited to both camping trips and roof cargo.

Connectivity

The infotainment system has also been brought up to date, and the2022 Defender features a 10" PIVI Pro touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto, Apple Car Play. There's also a head up display which helps you see information easier.

Driver Assistance

For those who think that the 2022 Defender is still a tractor, you would be wrong as the new Defender comes with a host of up to date driver assistance including:

clear exit monior

adaptive cruise control

lane keep assist

360 degree parking aid

rear collision monitor

rear traffic monitor

wade sensing

trailer stability asisst

Warranty

The 2022 Defender comes with five years or 150,000km warranty whichever comes first, five years or 65,000km free servicing, and three years Land Rover Roadside assistance.

The new three door Defender will also be available in Malaysia in the near future and a diesel powerplant will not be available as it can't accept the quality of diesel fuel here.

Register your interest for the 2022 Land Rover Defender
here
.


Fuel Price Update: 7 - 13 June, RON97 now RM2.66

The government has announced the updated fuel prices that will take effect from today until June 13th.
Only the price of RON 97 4M has changed, with an increase of 19 sen as the government has subjected the premium RON 97 4M grade to a float system according to the market prices, while the prices of RON 95 and Diesel are maintained.
That being said, here are the prices for the different fuel types:
RON95 –
RM2.20
per litre (no change)
RON97 4M –
RM2.66
 per litre (up 19 sen from RM2.47)
Diesel –
RM2.18
 per litre (no change)
Diesel Euro 5M –
RM2.28
 per litre (no change)
To recap, Euro 4M specifications for both petrol and diesel limit sulphur content to 50 ppm (parts per million, or one milligram per one kilogram), down from the current standard of 500 ppm.
A reduction in sulphur content improves the exhaust catalyst efficiency and ultimately a cleaner exhaust emission and thus better air quality.
The maximum benzene level in 4M petrol is also lower to 3.5% from the 5%, while the maximum limit for Reid Vapour Pressure is reduced to 65 kPa from the 70 kPa. A lower vapour pressure ensures that the fuel doesn’t nearly evaporate as quickly when being poured into the fuel tank, or at rest. RON 97 4M petrol was first introduced in September 2015.
The previous administration had also set 1st of October 2018 as the date to implement an upgraded RON 95 with Euro 4M specifications.


Road-Rage At The Extreme Level: Watch A Man Threaten A Family With A Chainsaw!

You’ve heard many cases of road-rage before but this has to be the most extreme of them all. This takes place in Quebec, Canada and it shows a man threatening a family with a CHAINSAW! A freaking CHAINSAW!

The story behind this terrifying scenario starts with Karine Cyr who lives in L’Épiphanie, Que and was travelling on vacation with her family that included her husband, Alexandre Hermenier at wheel along with their two children in the back seat.
Cyr said the chainsaw-wielding driver had cut them off and was driving erratically, which prompted her husband to follow the vehicle to get the license plate number so they could notify the police of where the crazy driver was heading.
However, they soon ended up on a dead-end road and Hermenier parked his car, blocking the other vehicle from leaving. That’s when things went crazy and the driver got out of his car and threatened them with a chainsaw.
Thankfully, no one was hurt during the scary ordeal but Cyr did say that in hindsight, the situation could have been handled differently.
"Everyone will react differently, but I would like to say that if you see dangerous driving, do not follow the driver — the mistake that we made with two children in the back seat. We regret it tremendously. If it happens to you, pull over and just call police,” she said.
The man has since been arrested by the police and will face charges of assault with a weapon.
Sources:
CBC News


Frankfurt 2017: Mercedes-AMG Project ONE Hypercar Teased Ahead Of Premiere

The Mercedes-AMG Project ONE will celebrate its world premiere at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt which starts tomorrow, just ahead of its launch – Mercedes-AMG has teased parts of the car in a collection of short videos.
The Project ONE hybrid hypercar will be the first commercially available vehicle with a Formula 1 hybrid powertrain and road approval, capable of being used on a day-to-day basis.
And the latest video (below) shows the clearest view yet of the front of the Project ONE.
The F1 hybrid drivetrain will be accompanied by a purely electric and wheel selective front axle drive concept, making the Project ONE an all-wheel drive vehicle, expected to develop a combined system power in the region of 1,000hp and have a top speed exceeding 350 km/h.


2022 CKD XC40 Recharge Price Announced - Deliveries Start By End Of April, RM262k

Volvo Car Malaysia (VCM) has announced the price of their CDK
Battery-Electric Vehicle (BEV)
 SUV, the 2022 CKD XC40 Recharge - priced at RM262,459.75

When Volvo unveiled the 2022 CKD XC40 Recharge last month, they practically told everything about the locally made BEV SUV except for its price.

Those who have been impressed by what they have seen or heard and wish to buy one can proceed to do so as Volvo Car Malaysia has finally announced the price. You may purchase the XC40 Recharge via Volvo Malaysia's website starting tonight. The steps are simple, as all you need to do is fill up a few details before submitting, and a representative will contact you within 24 hours to proceed even further.

Price

Volvo has priced the 2022 CKD XC40 Recharge Pure Electric at a 'Hassle-Free Price' of RM262,459.75 with road tax and afters sales exemption. For those wondering what a 'Hassle Free Price' Is, it's basically Volvo's recommended retail price which includes:

Charging cable

5 years warranty

5 years service package

8 years EV battery warranty

5 years road side assistance

Recap

As a recap, the
XC40 Recharge
 is based on the XC40 ICE SUV, and boasts a 78kWh battery embedded low within the centre of the vehicle; protected by a safety cage. The battery powers two motors, one at each axle, for a combined power output of 408PS and 660Nm.

The
 XC40 Recharge
 delivers up to 418km (WLTP standards) of driving range, courtesy of its 78 kWh lithium-ion battery. The battery requires around 40 minutes to juice up to 80% capacity with a 150kW
DC fast charger
 (or around 2 hours for a full charge with a DC charger), or roughly 8-10 hours with an 11kW AC Wallbox charger. Performance numbers read 4.9 seconds for the 0-100km/h sprint onto a
limited top speed (as all Volvo models are)
 of 180km/h.

When can you get your car?

Deliveries of the XC40 Recharge Pure Electric will start from the end of April 2022 onwards for all locations throughout Malaysia. Interested buyers can book a test drive through
 www.volvocars.com/my
 or contact any Volvo authorised dealer to experience the XC40 Recharge Pure Electric.


Rovelo’s 4x4 tyre range - Designed to meet all challenges at affordable prices

If you're looking for an affordable set of high-quality 4x4 tyres, you should definitely consider Rovelo's 4x4 tyre offerings!

Despite 4x4s being a familiar sight on Malaysian roads, the difference between car and 4x4 tyres is still a mystery to some.

While 4x4 tyres might just look like larger and beefier sets of donuts, they actually differ tremendously compared to car tyres.

Generally,
car tyres are built with comfort and grip in mind
 for tarmacked roads. While 4x4 tyres can also do that, they are mainly primed for dependability and grip on loose surfaces such as dirt and mud.

4x4 tyres facilitate this off-road grip by having deeper and larger gaps between the treads, which helps maintain traction in adverse conditions as the rubber has more contact with the surface. Furthermore, 4x4 tyres also usually have stronger and thicker sidewalls, which gives extra protection when venturing out into the rough stuff.

Where 4x4 tyres also traditionally differ from car tyres is in their price, but thanks to new tyre manufacturers such as Rovelo, the cost of 4x4 tyres are now more affordable than ever.

Rovelo is a tyre manufacturer with a global presence. They have cemented their place among many motorists as a brand that provides the market with a
wide range of high-quality value for money tyres
.

Not only do they sell excellent car tyres, but they also have a range of 4x4 tyres, from ones that are pleasant and comfortable on the tarmac to tyres that provide the most grip when driving off-road.

Rovelo's 4x4 tyre range even has tyres suitable for SUVs, designed for vehicles that are built like 4x4s but drive like cars.

If you're interested in learning more about Rovelo's 4x4 tyre range, read on.

Montare HT RV08 - Highway and City SUV tyres

The Montare HT RV08 is Rovelo's specifically engineered tyre for SUVs and crossovers. It delivers good handling and stability that the SUV and crossover of today demand, without compromising ride comfort. Furthermore, the Montare HT RV08 provides a smooth ride for highway cruising. Some of its key features are:

The main channel groove design improves grip and driving stability for greater manoeuvrability and braking performance in various road conditions

Unique pattern design ensures good vibration and noise absorption to increase driving comfort

Available sizes: 17" - 19"

Roadquest HT & Roadquest AT - On/off-road light truck and 4x4

The Roadquest HT and AT is a specifically designed tyre for pickup trucks and 4x4s. Available in highway terrain(HT) or all-terrain(AT) variant, the HT tyres are aimed at vehicle owners who like to be in safety and comfort while going through long journeys on the highways, while the all-terrain tyres are for owners looking for tyres that are reliable and can handle the tough stuff. Among its key selling points include:

 Roadquest HT

The main grooves are designed to efficiently expel water and reduce rolling resistance, thus offering greater fuel economy, high-speed stability, and wet traction

Fine sipe design increases driving comfort on asphalt and concrete roads

Open shoulder design also Improves stability and traction when cornering on wet and dry roads

Available sizes:15” to 18” & 20”

Roadquest AT

The lengthened tread shoulder employs a multi-layered protruding design that improves strength and prevents damage to the carcass, allowing for a safe off-roading experience

Widened shoulder grooves and nodules within the tread grooves effectively eject mud, sand, gravel, and other debris to improve grip

Tread blocks maintain a staggered bite to improve traction and climbing ability

String and widened running surface ensures superior traction performance on all types of road surfaces

Available sizes:15" - 20"

Ridgetrak AT - Heavy duty all terrain tyres for light truck and 4x4

If you're looking for a heavy duty all-terrain set of tyres that has the ability to support heavier vehicles, the Ridgetrak AT is the tyre for you. With a higher RT(rugged terrain) rating, the Ridgetrak is able to support vehicles with heavier loads. If you plan to constantly load up your vehicle with produce or camping gear, then the Ridgetrak AT is for you.Among its key selling points include:

Aggressive open shoulder design that efficiently expels water, sluch and mud for optimum traction on all-conditions

Serrated tread block design provides excellent grip and traction on various road conditions

Solid centre rib and block sipes offer greater handling and comfort

Available sizes: 15" - 17”

Roadquest RMT810 - off-road tyres for light trucks and 4x4

The Rovelo Roadquest RMT810 tyre has been designed to withstand the harshest and most challenging of terrains. Although the tyre is biased towards off-road driving, it still has excellent manners on-road, giving the driver confidence when travelling long distances. Among its key selling points include:

Z-shaped grooves between blocks are designed to improve grip and vehicles climbing abilities.

Deepened grooves allow mud to quickly be discharged from the tread at both high and low speeds.

Large blocks on the shoulders enhance handling on muddy and rocky roads.

The shield pattern which extends from the sidewall to the upper portion of the tyre protects the sidewall from abrasions and increases traction on muddy roads.

Available sizes: 15" - 18”

Now if you've made the decision to purchase some Rovelo tyres, go ahead and contact STC Tyre Mart at: 603-5569 3094/ 5569 3397 or:

Glenmarie Tyre Mart: Hwa
https://wasapp.me/+60176691219

Cheras Tyre Mart: James

https://wasapp.me/+60197317988

You can find out more info about the Rovelo tyre to suit your needs through Rovelo Malaysia's FB page here or website:
www.rovelo.stamfordtyres.com.my


This German Policeman Is Pissed Off, But Why?

Since 2012, several countries in the European Union including Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Czech Republic and Slovenia have passed a law requiring vehicles in a traffic jam on a highway to move the extreme left- or right-side to create a ‘virtual emergency lane’ that’s wide enough for emergency services vehicles to drive thru at speed.
Called the Rettungsgasse (emergency corridor) in German, the law applies irrespective of whether an emergency vehicle is passing through or not. The idea is to create a clear path for emergency services vehicles that stretches well ahead of the traffic queue, rather than waiting for drivers to react to the sound of a siren.
As you can see from the video below, Rettungsgasse the significantly speeds up the travel time of the police car.
Still, adherence to the law is not always consistent, at least not by German standards, which riles up the policeman in this video. Throughout the 8-minute long video, he had stopped 5 times to reprimand drivers who were blocking his way.
There was even an instance when he had to get down from his Polizei Mercedes-Benz E-Class to reprimand the driver of a Hyundai i10, who was trying to switch lanes.
After dealing with the Hyundai, he had to deal with a similar antic from a Skoda Roomster. We don’t speak German, but the agitated policeman can be heard saying “Rettungsgasse” repeatedly, followed by what sounds like "mein Gott."
Meanwhile in Malaysia, this is what our firefighters and ambulance drivers face all the time. Most Malaysian drivers seem to think that just because an ambulance or a fire truck isn’t directly behind them, they are not obliged to move aside. Well this is exactly why nobody can move anywhere to give way to emergency services vehicles.
So please, if you see an ambulance or a fire truck, or a police car that’s struggling its way through traffic, even if it’s on another lane, move aside, so the vehicle next to you has room to move.


Mazda Dealership In US Replaces First Crashed MX-5, For Nothing

Imagine the scenario: you wait long enough for your brand-new car (all the more a 2016 MX-5) to be ready for collection, you go to pick it up, and as soon as you drive off with it, you get rear-ended by a huge pick-up truck. The horror!
That’s exactly what happened to this couple in the US, who just moments after leaving the dealership in their brand-new 2016
Mazda MX-5
, found themselves being taken to the emergency rooms after being slammed by a Ford pick-up. The first bit of fortune is that no one was seriously hurt – apart from a few bruises.
The events mentioned took place on the 18
th
 of July, just last Saturday, with the owners obviously in some distress: not only for their bruised bodies, but at the thought of their rear-ended MX-5!
On the following Monday, the second bit of fortune struck: the owners spoke to the US
Mazda
 dealership, Tom Bush Mazda, and they, together with Mazda North American Owners (MNAO) had agreed to give unfortunate owners a brand-new MX-5, at no cost at all – the only know terms are believed to be that the damaged vehicle be returned. Mazda may have some value in the first real-world rear-ended MX-5 – presumably for their own research.
The entire event is quite a rare ordeal, but a very fortunate one for the couple involved. We don’t normally hear of such tales, with dealerships typically not obligated to do such things. Nevertheless, good guys Mazda USA did.
We wonder: have you ever encountered such an instance in this part of the world? Do feel free to share your stories with us.
Check out the original forum post here:
http://goo.gl/y4BB6Q


Hyundai Santa Cruz, The Sexiest Pick-Up We Can't Have Yet

Doesn’t this look good? Despite it being an artist rendering, it’s what Hyundai’s long-rumoured pick-up should look like when the South Korean automaker finally decides to pull the covers off their ‘Santa Cruz’, as it’s being referred to constantly.

It’s the creation of Russian website
Kolesa.ru
, which did a superb job making this look as lifelike as possible, matching up with what we know so far about the internal Hyundai prototype, replete with nuances of the brand’s latest styling cues.

Much of this was derived from a
leaked image
 about 2 weeks ago, showing what is likely a near finished version of the Santa Cruz’s shell as it was being transported. It’s body is unpainted so it’s safe to assume that it’s either being hauled to have its exterior colour applied or being stored for the layer of primer to fully cure.

Regardless, this all but proves that Hyundai is indeed keen on entering the pick-up space and will probably do so in the near future, something they’ve neither fully confirmed nor denied since showing off the Santa Cruz in concept form back in 2015 at the Detroit Motor Show.

While the concept version was much more stylised and had a somewhat coupe-style extended length front door, the production version looks to be much more in-line with what we expect - a dual-cab layout and four proper doors.

Still, the Santa Cruz’s proportions suggests a greater emphasis on it being more urban-friendly and lifestyle-oriented. The rear cargo bed looks smaller than those found on, say, a Toyota HiLux or Ford Ranger, though this could be a result of the sloping C-pillar obscuring a clear dividing line.

It’s a much less boxy design than the usual pick-ups we’ve seen, speaking to Hyundai’s desire to entice a much broader spectrum of buyers that may not have considered this type of vehicle before. And based on the renders, it might even border on ‘sporty’.

Its wheels (on the render) are taken from the newest Santa Fe and seems to suit the truck pretty well. There’s ample amounts of dark grey cladding around the lower perimeter, as per the norm. However, we’re still in the dark on the interior.

The Santa Cruz concept first appearing in Detroit was already a clear indication that the production model would be designed and developed to succeed in truck-crazed North America. However, with the embers of Dieselgate still burning, it probably means that it will be petrol-powered in that market.

To that end, the US-spec Santa Cruz could utilise the powertrain packages from the newly released Palisade SUV, namely a naturally aspirated V6 in either 3.3, 3.5 or 3.8-litre varieties, producing between 250 and 290hp. It’s smooth and gutsy enough and arguably better from that 'lifestyle' angle given its looks and positioning.

Bring the Santa Cruz to Malaysia, though, and the road tax would be a huge hurdle for the fresh-faced Hyundai. Hyundai would need to fit some smaller capacity diesels in order to hit the ground running, and thankfully they already have a line-up of strong oil burners to pluck from.

The 2.2-litre CRDi turbodiesel unit from the Santa Fe or Kia Grand Carnival is the kind of proven performer that would suit it perfectly. And with 200PS and 441Nm going to all four wheels, power and torque would be on-par with what the current crop of the Santa Cruz’s would-be competitors are peddling.

Load lugging and towing wouldn’t be a problem for the Hyundai pick-up either, but we reckon its pure lifestyle (there's that word again) appeal and approachability will be the ace up its sleeve. Should they price it right relative to its features/equipment, dress it up with a plush cabin, and engineer it to have more forgiving car-like dynamics, Hyundai could burst out of the gate with a really strong contender. Maybe it’ll even skim a good deal of sales away from the SUV segment.

If this is what the Santa Cruz is shaping up to be, we definitely want it. Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors, you know who to call...


The Top Three Best Selling Cars In Malaysia Are Peroduas

There seems to be not stopping Perodua as the company records another stellar month of sales in July 2020.

The company registered 23,203 vehicles in July,
beating June
 as its best sales month so far this year by 9.2 percent, and boosting its year-to-date (YTD) sales total to a total of 97,373 units.

Three of its five models – namely the Axia, Bezza, and Myvi – are Malaysia’s best-selling chart-toppers, posting deliveries of 28,107 units, 25,416 units and 29,313 units respectively YTD.

Perodua President and Chief Executive Officer Dato’ Zainal Abidin Ahmad adds, “The Perodua Myvi, Malaysia’s best-selling vehicle every year since 2006. It remains one of the most affordable cars with advanced safety features in the country,”

“Since our operations restarted after a two-month Movement Control Order (MCO) closure, our volume has rebounded swiftly, aided by the government’s
sales tax exemption
 which will run until year-end. Should this encouraging trend continue, the healthy volume will enable us to further bolster Malaysia’s automotive eco-system of suppliers and dealers in this time of need.”

Perodua estimates its July and YTD market shares to stand at between 40 percent and 42 percent of the Total Industry Volume (TIV) in Malaysia.

The strong sales of the Myvi, would have in no doubt been boosted by the introduction of the updated
2020 Myvi
 which comes with Perodua’s ASA 2.0 safety system and a new Blue colour.


Mazda: Our Aim Is Not To Build Cheap Cars, We Focus Only On Car Lovers

On paper, the Mazda CX-5 sits in the same class as the Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester, not forgetting similarly priced 7-seaters like the Mitsubishi Outlander, real world experience with the actual car tells a very different story.
The badge might say Mazda but this all-new CX-5 has the looks and interior quality that’s comparable to an Audi or a Mercedes-Benz, nevermind a Honda.
Everything about the CX-5 feels expensive. The signature Soul Red colour (costs additional RM2,000) has a very expensive looking depth to it, and cleverly manipulates natural light to amplify the CX-5 body’s swanky lines like no other, thanks to Mazda’s proprietary Takuminuri painting technology.
To a pair of untrained eyes, it’s hard to tell which is a more premium product - the Mazda CX-5 or the Jaguar F-Pace, which when viewed from certain angles, especially from the front, the CX-5 bears a passing resemblance to, and that’s not a bad thing to say.
Inside, the rotary knob operated MZD Connect infotainment system and its free standing 7-inch full colour touch screen works very much like Audi’s MMI and Mercedes-Benz’s COMAND, and it is much more user friendly too.
The high quality brushed aluminum, chrome bezels on the control knobs, genuine soft leather wrapped dashboard, and overall clean lines give you the impression that this is more like a scaled down Audi Q7 rather than something that’s built to attract buyers considering a Honda CR-V.
All this certainly bumps up the cost of the CX-5 and looking at the materials used, Mazda Malaysia can’t be making that much on each car. The fact that it sells within a few thousand Ringgits distance from the Honda CR-V makes the Mazda an amazing bargain, so long as space and utility – areas which Honda reigns supreme - is not your main priority.
As for safety, Mazda’s full suite of i-Active Sense advanced driving aids systems (ADAS) is ranked only one level below Volvo’s Intellisafe – still the industry benchmark, that’s a very commendable achievement for a brand like Mazda.
Mazda only sells about 1.6 million cars globally each year, a featherweight player when compared against heavy weights like Toyota’s 8.7 million cars and Honda’s 3.6 million cars. The lower volume puts Mazda at a significant disadvantage when it comes to economies of scale.
Despite that, Mazda insists that building high cost, high quality cars that appeal to people who are serious about cars and love driving is a far more sustainable business direction than building mass market appeal cars to compete against giants like Toyota or Honda.
“Our strategy is not to deliver cheaper vehicles to the customer. Some customers don’t like cars and think that the car is just a tool to move from A to B. For such customers it is important to deliver cheaper and cheaper products but Mazda’s strategy is very different. We target car lovers everywhere in the world, to deliver higher quality, higher performance and the most advanced technology to car lovers,” said Hiroshi Inoue, Managing Executive Officer at Mazda Motor Corporation in charge of operations in the ASEAN region at this morning’s
launch of the all-new CX-5
. He also serves as President of Mazda South East Asia Ltd.
Inoue-san is not your typical suit and tie corporate person. Prior to taking on business roles, Inoue was an engineer. When he was just 29 years old, he was one of the racing staff that contributed to Mazda’s victory in the 1991 Le Mans 24 Hours, a feat not repeated by any Japanese brand since.
He is a highly respected figure at Mazda as he is one of the fathers behind Mazda’s signature SkyActiv technology. In his previous position as General Manager of Mazda Motors Product Division, he oversaw the development of the previous generation Mazda CX-5.
As a straight talking engineer at heart, Inoue is very aware of how much it costs to produce a high quality car that appeals to enthusiast drivers and the challenge in producing such products with Mazda’s limited budget.
He candidly acknowledged that brands like Toyota and Honda are many times bigger than Mazda and will always have an advantage when it comes to cost. Meeting this challenge of building highly quality cars for people who love cars on Mazda’s miniscule budget is highly dependent on the ingenuity of Mazda staffs, not just the engineers but also those responsible for purchasing as well as cost reduction efforts by suppliers.
Bermaz Motor, the distributor of Mazda vehicles in Malaysia expects the all-new CX-5 to contribute about 50 percent of Mazda’s sales in Malaysia.
Prices for the all-new CX-5 starts from RM134,205 (without insurance) for the base model 2.0G GL variant but the pick of the range are the higher specifications 2.5G GLS petrol and 2.2D GLS diesel, ranging between RM160,596 and RM174,779 without insurance.


Proton Edar CEO Steps Down

It is busy times at Proton. Having started the year with bold announcements of programmes for
new models
 and
new engines
, the company now faces a major administrative shake-up from top down.
The latest in a series of high profile departures from the brand’s top management is the stepping down of En Norzahid Mohd Zahudi as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Proton Edar Sdn Bhd.
A veteran of over two decades in the automotive industry, Norzahid’s exit comes just a day after
Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamed’s resignation
 as Chairman of Proton Holdings Bhd.
Just a week ago, it was announced that the CEO of Proton Holdings Bhd, Dato Harith Abdullah, was to be transferred back to parent company DRB-Hicom to serve as Chief Operating Officer, being replaced by Dato’ Ahmad Fuaad Kenali, who commences his duties today.
According to a source familiar with the matter, Norzahid’s role as CEO of Proton Edar is set to be taken over by current Proton Holdings CFO En Rohime Shafie.
We are currently awaiting Proton Edar’s official announcement on this matter, so watch this space for more.


Lawatan Mengejut: Menteri Pengangkutan Terkejut JPJ Masih Guna Sistem Kuno

Menteri pengangkutan, Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong mendapati bahawa sistem perkhidmatan kaunter JPJ sedia ada dianggap terlalu kuno kerana telah melebihi usia 10 tahun.

Susulan lawatan mengejut yang dibuat oleh
Menteri Pengangkutan, Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong
 di pejabat
Jabatan Pengangkutan Jalan (JPJ)
 di Taman Daya, Johor Bahru baru-baru ini, beliau terkejut, sedih dan kecewa apabila mendapati bahawa perkhidmatan kaunter di situ tidak cekap dan tidak mesra pelanggan.

Menerusi perkongsiannya di laman
Facebook
 miliknya, keadaan di JPJ itu memerlukan anjakan paradigma ke arah digitalisasi dalam jangka panjang bagi memastikan semua perkhidmatan kaunter JPJ menjadi lebih cekap dan tidak menyusahkan rakyat.

Tambah Wee Ka Siong, lawatan mengejut itu dilakukan tanpa pengetahuan sesiapa demi membuat pengesahan laporan rasmi yang diterima daripada pegawai dan kesahihan aduan awam. Namun setibanya dia disana, beliau sendiri yang terkejut melihat orang ramai beratur panjang di sekeliling bangunan JPJ Johor.

Punca utama yang membuatkan orang ramai beratur di situ adalah berpunca daripada
Lesen Memandu Malaysia (LMM)
 tidak boleh diperbaharui di Pusat Transformasi Bandar (UTC) dan pejabat pos. Malah ada juga pengguna yang mempersoalkan sistem MySikap di mana transaksi dibuat
secara dalam talian
, namun masih perlu hadir ke JPJ untuk urusan percetakan.

Selain itu, daripada 4 mesin cetak LMM yang dibekalkan Percetakan Keselamatan Nasional (PKN), kini hanya 2 mesin berfungsi di Pejabat JPJ Johor ini. Sehubungan dengan itu, Wee Ka Siong telah menghubungi serta mengarahkan PKN agar segera membaiki atau menghantar mesin cetak LMM dengan segera. Pihak PKN juga telah berjanji akan melakukan tindakan serta-merta.

Menteri Pengangkutan itu turut menegur warga JPJ
Johor
supaya memantau kesesakan di bangunan itu, terutama pada pada hari minggu dan jangan biarkan orang ramai menunggu lama hanya kerana mahu mendapatkan cetakan LMM. Tambahnya, sebarang kesulitan yang dihadapi perlulah segera dilaporkan kepada kementerian.

Beliau juga telah mengarahkan Ibu Pejabat JPJ untuk mengumpulkan maklumat dari semua cawangan JPJ, UTC dan pejabat pos mengenai prestasi terkini pencetakan LMM dan Lesen Kenderaan Motor (LKM) menggunakan mesin cetak dibekalkan oleh PKN.

"Saya akan cuba mengimbangi jurang di antara perancangan JPJ dan aspirasi rakyat. Apa yang penting, perkhidmatan yang diberikan perlulah sentiasa baik, lancar, menjimatkan masa dan memenuhi kehendak orang ramai,” tambah beliau.

Menteri pengangkutan ini tidak mahu situasi yang sama di JPJ Johor berlaku di tempat lain yang akhirnya membazir masa rakyat. Rakyat tentu marah jika terpaksa lari ke sana ke sini untuk urusan LMM atau LKM yang sepatutnya diselesaikan dengan mudah dan cepat," tegas Wee Ka Siong lagi.

Beliau berharap selepas ini semua kaunter JPJ akan berfungsi dengan lebih cekap, lancar, menjimatkan masa dan memenuhi kehendak orang ramai.

*Kredit foto: Wee Ka Siong (Facebook)


Proton Exora and Saga Facelift Models Coming By End 2019

Proton has confirmed that we can expect facelifted versions of the Saga and Exora MPV to be introduced by the end of 2019.

During a press event today, Proton shared plans of its two upcoming models, including news that for the first time in 37 months, Proton has overtaken Honda in terms of new vehicles registrations for the month of April – after securing total sales of almost 7,000 vehicles. Proton added that the introduction of the two new models is part and parcel of Proton’s plan to retake the second position in overall sales by the end of 2019; currently held by Honda.

The Exora is the longest serving member of Proton’s current range, having been first introduced in 2009. The Exora got a
minor update in 2017
, in addition to streamlining the variant offerings to just two, it received cosmetic updates such as a new wheel design, new Ruby Red paint, LED DRLs, and blacked out components like the roof, side mirrors, and spoiler. Both variants are powered by the Campro 1.6-litre turbocharged engine (138 hp and 205 Nm) paired to the perennial Punch CVT-type automatic transmission.

The Exora facelift could serve as a stopgap measure until an all-new model is introduced, which could possibly be based on Geely’s global MPV model, the
Jiaji
.

The third-generation Proton Saga was first
introduced in 2016
. Despite an entirely new exterior design, the car was built on the extensively modified version previous generation (BLM-generation) platform, albeit with vastly improved safety features and a stronger shell. Four variants are currently offered – powered by Proton’s enduring 1.3-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder (94 hp and 120 Nm), like the Exora, it too features a CVT-type automatic transmission.

Our
recently spied shots
 of the Saga facelift undergoing road testing revealed a number of aesthetic updates including the new familial front grille with the ‘Ethereal Bow’ design.

In addition to the product updates of existing models, at least
five new Proton models
 are earmarked to launch between this year and 2023, averaging one new model every year.


DRB-Hicom And Zhejiang Geely Holding Inks Agreement

DRB-Hicom and Zhejiang Geely Holding today signed the Definitive Agreement for the latter to take a 49.9% stake in Proton. At the same time, DRB-Hicom also sold its entire stake in Lotus Advance Technology to ZGH and Etika Automotive.
Overseeing the event was Malaysia Prime Minister Dato' Sri Mohd Najib Tun Abdul Razak, DRB-Hicom Group Managing Director Dato' Sri Syed Faisal Albar, Li Shufu, ZGH chairman and An Chonghui, President and CEO of Geely Auto Group.
During the event, it was announced that Proton will become the manufacturing hub for Geely's right-hand-drive models in ASEAN. On top of being Geely's manufacturing hub, Proton will also gain access to Geely's platforms and technologies.
Chairman Li Shufu went on to add that following this tie-up, the Geely brand will not be marketed in South-East Asia. He likened Proton and Geely's relationship moving forward to be akin to Skoda's with Volkswagen - benefiting from the group's superior volume and technology but retaining its distinct identity.
Commenting on speculations that the tie-up will result in Volvo cars being assembled at Tanjung Malim, Dato' Faisal said that such a scenario is possible but only if there is excess capacity available for usage. Currently Volvo cars are assembled in Malaysia at its Shah Alam plant that has been in operation since 1968.
As for Lotus, Geely plans to revive the British company with new product launches and increased capacity. Chairman Li did not rule out the possibility for Lotus models to be assembled in China, though there are no concrete plans as yet.
Geely brought out the
Boyue SUV
 during the signing ceremony, a model that will be rebadged as a Proton in the coming months.


Sistem e-Testing JPJ Jalani Pembuktian Konsep – Laporan Dibentang Pada Hujung Mac

Sistem
e-Testing
 bagi pengambilan ujian lesen kenderaan kini sedang dalam proses pembuktian konsep (POC) bagi memastikan pelaksanaannya menepati dan mematuhi peruntukan undang-undang.

Timbalan Menteri Pengangkutan, Datuk Henry Sum Agong berkata kementeriannya serta
JPJ
 telah menubuhkan Jawatankuasa Teknikal Projek e-Testing dan sebanyak empat buah syarikat telah memohon serta diberikan kelulusan menjalankan POC itu.

*Kredit foto: Bernama

Ketika ini, Jawatankuasa Teknikal sedang menilai sistem yang dibangunkan oleh syarikat-syarikat berkenaan dan laporan penuh penilaian POC itu dijangka dapat dibentangkan ke
Kementerian Pengangkutan
 pada hujung bulan Mac 2022.

Syarikat yang berjaya dalam fasa penilaian POC ini akan ditawarkan untuk melaksanakan projek rintis bagi tempoh tertentu sebelum sistem tersebut diperkenalkan secara berperingkat di institut memandu di seluruh negara.

Henry menambah, sistem e-Testing ini perlu melalui POC sebelum ke peringkat ujian konsep kerana konsep baharu ini perlu diteliti dengan baik sebelum dilaksanakan kerana ia melibatkan masyarakat umum. Beliau tidak mahu ada sebarang masalah timbul apabila sistem ini diterima pakai oleh umum kelak.

Timbul persoalan sama ada adakah pelaksanaan e-Testing atau ujian memandu tanpa pegawai di sisi ini merupakan jalan terbaik, Henry berkata ia bergantung pada proses POC yang sedang djalankan. Selepas proses POC tamat, sistem ini akan dilaksanakan mengikut konsep terbaik untuk kegunaan masyarakat.

Pada Januari lalu, media telah melaporkan bahawa JPJ akan melaksanakan sistem pengujian
lesen memandu
 secara automasi atau 'e-Testing' di seluruh negara mulai April ini.

Ketua Pengarah JPJ, Datuk Zailani Hashim berkata sistem 'e-Testing' ini bertujuan meningkatkan integriti dan kebolehpercayaan masyarakat terhadap sistem pengujian lesen memandu yang diadakan secara elektronik.

Menerusi sistem e-Testing, pegawai penguji JPJ akan memantau dari bilik kawalan sahaja, manakala calon yang diuji berada bersendirian dalam kereta. Segala arahan atau kesalahan yang dilakukan oleh calon terbabit akan dipantau serta ditegur melalui bilik kawalan khas yang disediakan di
Institut Memandu
 terbabit.


Hogging of Emergency Lane - Ambulance Was Delayed By 1 Hour

A video posted by an assistant medical officer showing inconsiderate drivers on the emergency lane getting in the way of an ambulance has since gone viral.
The 104 seconds long video recording, taken from inside an ambulance that was rushing to the scene of an accident in KM 228 on the North South Highway, showed the ambulance struggling to filter through traffic, as drivers on all lanes reacted nonchalantly to the ambulance's siren.
Drivers on the centre and right-side of the highway were not making any effort to make way for vehicles on the left lane, where the ambulance was, to move over, while many more vehicles illegally using the emergency lane to cut queue were slowing down the ambulance’s progress.
According to a Facebook post by the assistance medical officer, who was in a second back-up ambulance called to the scene, was estimated to arrive in 20 minutes, but was delayed by approximately 60 minutes. Subsequent unverified postings on social media claimed that two of the accident victims, who were still conscious and responsive at the scene of the accident, had later succumbed to their injuries.
This comes after our heroes in red, the tough men from
 Jabatan Bomba dan Penyelamat
 posted a similar video of their predicament several months back. At the 55 seconds mark, you could see from the video that none of the vehicles on the centre and right lane were making any effort to clear a path for the fire truck.
Every driver on each lane needs to make way
Perhaps it was the fault of our driving curriculum but making way for emergency services vehicles, irrespective of how near or how far you are from an ambulance or fire truck or police car, is something that every driver on every lane must be conscious of.
Realistically speaking, emergency lanes are for stalled or broken down vehicles. A large vehicle like an ambulance or a fire truck cannot be expected to filter through traffic using the emergency lane alone. Drivers around an emergency services vehicle must make way, not just for the ambulance or fire truck, but also to give space for other vehicles yielding to them. If necessary, fold your side mirrors.
How it’s done elsewhere
Since 2012, several countries in the European Union including Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Czech Republic and Slovenia have passed a law requiring vehicles in a traffic jam on a highway to move the extreme left- or right-side to create a ‘virtual emergency lane’ that’s wide enough for emergency services vehicles to drive thru at speed.
Failure to do so will result in a fine of 2000 Euros.
Here’s an example of the so-called Rettungsgasse regulation at work to quicken the pace of emergency services vehicles filtering through traffic.
It seems these European drivers are obedient enough but the German police aren’t too happy about the rate of compliance to the new
Rettungsgasse
regulation. A German TV crew was even invited to witness first hand, of the problems faced by the German police officers when responding to a call. Some drivers were verbally reprimanded by the police.
Elsewhere in other countries with a much stricter standard of driver education, ambulance drivers can drive in urban environment at fairly high speeds, fairly confident that (most) drivers are aware of their surroundings and will yield fast enough.
Their counterparts in India however, face a significantly harder challenge.


Health DG Noor Hisham: “Where Are You Going This Weekend?!!?”

As Malaysia inches closer to the
nationwide ‘full lockdown’
 running for 2 weeks starting June 1st to curb the spread of the COVID-19, many of its citizens are in seeming disregard for the perilous consequences their actions may have.

To some, apparently “stay home” has a very loose definition, as observed by the long traffic jams approaching highway exits this weekend.

Massive crawls were observed leading up to the Sungai Besi toll plaza (Southbound) as well as the Karak Highway exiting Kuala Lumpur with motorists
trying their luck
 at an interstate exodus.

This not only raised the eyebrows of home-bound Malaysians doing their part to break the infectivity chain, but came to the attention of Health Director-General Tan Sri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah. In a Facebook post, he expressed dismay and confusion at the spectacle, asking:

“Ke manakah arah tujuan anda pada hujung minggu ini?”

A couple of accompanying screenshots were included together with a multi-paragraph caption highlighting the importance of staying home to control the increasingly aggressive spread of the virus as well as repeating the plight of our overburdened healthcare infrastructure and exhausted frontliners.

In both photos, the swarm of vehicles near entrances to those highways were met by police roadblocks but it is unclear how many were permitted through or were forced to turn around or were fined (or both).

At the Gombak toll plaza, however, OCPD Asst Comm Arifai Tarawe told
The Star
, that the majority of those that went through the roadblock had valid reasons to travel inter-state.

Dr Noor Hisham's post was swiftly shared across the platform with users chastising the stubborn actions of any irresponsible individuals attempting to flee across state borders without good reason before the lockdown took effect, urging the authorities to take stern action.

Prior to this, the government had implemented a nationwide Movement Control Order (MCO) that was underway between May 12th to June 7th. These measures seemingly had little impact on the rising number of new infections, leading Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin to announce a
nationwide lockdown
 between June 1st to the 14th.

After this ‘Phase 1’ period of 2 weeks, the situation will be assessed. During this time, however, all economic and social sectors are not allowed to operate unless expressly permitted by the Health Ministry or MITI, but must fall within the pre-determined list of essential services.

As of Saturday, 29th May 2021, Malaysia recorded its highest number yet of new daily infections at 9,020 cases with Selangor alone accounting for close to 3,000 cases, bringing the concurrent total to 76,218. The number of new recorded deaths related to the virus also spiked to a record high of 98.


2014 Ford Fiesta 1.0L EcoBoost Full Review: The Dynamic Everyday Hero

Undeniably,
Ford
’s
1.0L EcoBoost engine
 is a gem: every bit of its three-cylinders, 999cc and its turbocharger. And with the awards racked up in its favour, here it is, brought to you by
Sime Darby Auto Connexion
, firmly fitted to its
2014 Ford Fiesta
. Apart from the highly-acclaimed engine, the
Fiesta
 1.0L EcoBoost itself adopts a new bodykit, daytime running lights, and a total of seven airbags (just two are available on other
Fiesta variants
). But while these impressive new bits and the already-available excitement of the standard 1.5-litre Fiesta are all good and well, the biggest fuss is to be made of the car’s new engine. Is it really that quick? What about its fuel consumption? Well, if three ‘
International Engine of the Year
’ titles aren’t enough to float your boat, here goes:
Buyer’s Guide: Should you buy one?
 For everything the regular
1.5-litre Ford Fiesta hatch
 lacked (particularly the low power), you can rest-assured it’s all accounted for in this EcoBoost variant. Equipment-wise, you can’t go wrong, and the dynamic handling of this Ford is a match for anything the segment can throw at it. That said, while there is more power from this than its regular counterpart, the fuel efficiency of this car isn’t as great as you might aspect from a three-cylinder 999cc. And then you have the slightly cramped cabin we’ve become familiar with in modern Fords. Is it worth the RM96,551 (with insurance)? That depends on how much you enjoy brisk driving on a daily basis. And even so, we reckon some prying away from the
Suzuki Swift Sport
 is necessary.
KEY SPECS: 2014 Ford Fiesta 1.0L EcoBoost
Price: RM96,551 (with insurance)
Engine: 1.0-litre GTDi EcoBoost (turbocharged, petrol)
Transmission: Six-speed Powershift (dual-clutch automatic)
Power: 125PS @ 6,000rpm
Torque: 170Nm @ 4,500rpm
0-100km/h: 9.0 seconds
Fuel consumption: 5.3-litre/100km claimed,
8.0-9.5-litre/100km observed
Driving a 2014 Ford Fiesta 1.0L EcoBoost:
PERFORMANCE & HANDLING:
 From our
test drives of the 1.5-litre variant
, we remember that there’s a fantastic chassis underneath the Fiesta which made it superb fun to drive hard. Although, it did have a few setbacks: the drive-by-wire throttle controlled engine took ages to respond when you needed the power to overtake, and the 1.5-litre Ti-VCT engine just didn’t have enough juice to match the great handling. Have these issues been addressed in the 1.0L EcoBoost? Yes, and no: there is a noticeable increase in power which befits this car’s handling capabilities, but the throttle lag is still very much apparent. Driving off from standstill with the pedal gently pressed will get you moving instantly, but stamping the throttle hard to overtake someone, there is a noticeable delay before the engine's rev starts building.  – be prepared to miss a few lane changes when there’s approaching traffic from the rear. Also, if you were wondering about how the new EcoBoost mill gets on against the discontinued 1.6-litre Ti-VCT in the pre-facelift model, you may notice that there isn’t much on paper to suggest it’s a lot quicker (just 3PS more). But the improvements are obvious out on the open road.
RIDE COMFORT:
 The Fiesta isn’t as supple over the bumps as say, a Volkswagen Polo, for example: so there’s likely to be a few who may not appreciate its ride. But try it, before you leave it. There’s no complete escape from feeling road imperfections, but at the levels you do in the Fiesta, it’s all actually useful feedback of the kinds of roads you’re on at any time.
On long highways, it’s extremely stable for a small hatch. But remember to keep an eye on the speedometer because this chassis is so comfortable with speed, you just don’t realise how fast you’re going – even at 140-150km/h. The only indication of the speed stems from wind noises that start to show around the 110km/h mark.
HANDLING:
 As mentioned, all the 1.5-litre Fiesta lacked was a bit more power. In the 1.0L EcoBoost, you finally get it, and the whole package is magic. If you can overlook the excessive initial lag and keep the revs up, this car is a hoot to drive fast. We needn’t say more. But please, save your enthusiasm for a circuit – preferably a small, tight one with more corners than long straights.
Living with a 2014 Ford Fiesta 1.0L EcoBoost:
 Having already covered this aspect in our previous test drive of the Fiesta (snug-fit cabin, decent boot space, fair bit of comfort), here’s a specific look at what’s new in the Fiesta 1.0L EcoBoost.
FEATURES & EQUIPMENT:
 There aren’t any new infotainment or creature comfort improvements inside the 1.0L EcoBoost that isn’t already on the regular variant, but the previous list was enough to impress us. The six-speaker system has quality, and streams tunes right off your Bluetooth, USB or Aux devices. Ford’s SYNC audio system is as it’s ever been, still requiring some familiarisation to use – yes, it’s never been the simplest interface to work with.
FUEL ECONOMY:
 Yes, it’s a three-cylinder engine, turbocharged to boost power and potentially save you fuel, but realistically, you get the power, but not the savings you might expect. Comparatively, things do look better for the new EcoBoost when compared against the regular Ti-VCT engines: the normally-aspirated 1.5-litre Ti-VCT engine returned 9.0 to 10.5-litres/100km in real-world driving conditions, while this should be good to fetch anywhere between 8.0 to 9.5-litres/100km. Of course, you could milk it a little more to try and achieve the claimed 5.3-litre/100km, but that would take an unnatural amount of discipline to do.
SAFETY:
 Where the regular variant had to make do withonly two airbags, the 1.0L EcoBoost increases the airbag count to a total of seven. This, and the already-available safety features make it pretty well-equipped in the department:
Anti-lock brake system
Emergency brake assist
Electronic brake-force distribution
Electronic Stability Program
Traction Control System
Hill-Launch Assist
ISOXFIX child-seat anchors
The list goes on…
Competing with a 2014 Ford Fiesta 1.0L EcoBoost:

2014 SUZUKI SWIFT SPORT
: For nearly the same money, you could also bag yourself one of these down-to-earth, everyday heroes. Just like the Fiesta, it’s a very practical and affordable hot hatch. Power figures nearly match as well, with the Swift Sport having more horses (+9hp), but fewer torques (-10Nm). The Swift humbly doesn’t have any turbochargers, or any fast-shifting dual-clutch transmissions, which certainly makes it a far more conservative choice. The CVT gets by alright, but there is a manual option (Mmm…). That said, its well-understood and proven engineering means that maintaining it is less of a headache, and power delivery can be as linear as you want, without needing to depend on any lacklustre drive-by-wire systems. And, have we mentioned that there’s a manual option too?
Verdict: So here’s what we think…
 The Ford Fiesta 1.0L EcoBoost has a lot of tricks up its sleeves. It’s a really great car to drive hard, and it has the ability to transform nicely into a practical everyday hatch at an instant. Manage your fuel consumption expectations realistically, and you won’t be disappointed there either. The cabin’s a little too cramped for my six-foot self as a driver and a passenger in the rear, and the throttle lag takes a lot of getting used to. And then you have Sime Darby Auto Connexion’s very, very attractive three-years/ 60,000km free maintenance program and a five-year/200,000km warranty, which makes owning a Ford easier than imagined. You can’t go wrong there. Question is, Fiesta 1.0L EcoBoost? Or the
Swift Sport
? Tough one.


Ford rolls out a portable wind tunnel

When most people think of wind tunnels, they associate it with aerodynamic testing and drag reduction. But there is another use: controlled acoustic measurement. Normally wind and road noise testing is done on an open road, but this leaves a lot of uncontrollable variables. To overcome this, Ford developed a mobile aeroacoustic wind tunnel for this purpose specifically. The tunnel can produce wind speeds of up to 80 miles per hour- well beyond normal operating speeds. The tunnel can be broken down into its components and reassembled in a matter of hours at any Ford plant in North America.
The tunnel is constructed from two 53-foot shipping containers in parallel and one 40 foot container as a control area, with aeroacoustic vanes and internal ducting to replicate 80 mile per hour wind speed. Both of the 16-bladed fans use a 250 horsepower motor to spin them up. The other benefit of having a portable wind tunnel is it reduces time spent on the road, and in turn reduces test cycle times from weeks to just a matter of hours. This allows engineers to have a better work-life balance, and employee happiness is the key to productivity.
The cost of a full sized aerodynamic wind tunnel is roughly 50 million USD, once all the measuring and analysis equipment cost is factored in. Testing time is constantly fought for as these facilities are in very high demand by various departments and teams. But for the purposes of aeroacoustics alone, much of the equipment can be done without- and standalone sensors in the cabin are enough for testing purposes. The portable wind tunnel also allows Ford to test vehicles from off the line without delay to ensure that the seals and other components are intact. This saves time as it reduces the number of cars that slip through quality control.


One D-Max, Three Owners - The Isuzu Owners Stories

You don't have to take our word for how good the D-Max is because current owners will tell you exactly why they love their Isuzu D-Max.

In Malaysia, having a pickup truck as a personal or
family vehicle
 is beginning to become more the norm than the exception.

With features and considerations that no longer cater just towards your fruit sellers or palm oil workers, it's no surprise that many different walks of people are considering pickup trucks.

There are obviously quite a few reasons why trucks are popular these days, but the addition of a premium sedan-like interior, as well as advanced safety features, has definitely caught the eye of buyers who otherwise would never have imagined themselves owning a pickup truck.

This is especially true for those who have just purchased the all-new third-generation Isuzu D-Max, as we found out. Because of its new brutishly handsome look, soft touch and premium interior, and advanced safety features, more buyers are purchasing the D-Max to be used for work, play as well as charity.

When we spoke to 44-year-old training consultant Muhammad Arshad bin Ramankutty, he said that he loves his Isuzu D-Max X Terrain simply because it gives him access to
more things in life
, including the ability to
help out
 friends and neighbours.

"Coming from a vehicle history of mostly sedans and SUVs, I never thought of buying a pickup truck myself till I started seeing my friends getting them. Thank God I did cause it allowed me to do some amazing things this year."

"I looked at a few trucks, but the 3rd generation
D-Max X-Terrain really caught my eye
. I was almost shocked to see that the truck came with such a premium feeling soft-touch interior and advanced safety features. But, it was also like love at first sight as soon as I saw that angry bird look on the front end of the D-Max."

"I had tested a few trucks before I purchased the D-Max, but the comfort in the D-Max was just top-notch. I love the commanding view of the truck and its ride and handling, which allows me to bulldoze over any bad roads. The fuel economy is great too! I can get 800km of range in one full tank, and that's just pure city driving."

"All of these attributes gave me a lot of confidence in the truck, which is why one week after it rolled off the showroom floor, I took it for a flood recovery mission in Mentakab, Pahang. I managed to carry generators to those who needed them, which put a huge smile on my face."

For 43-year-old Mohd Ayob from Batu Pahat, an assistant engineer at Universiti Tun Hussein Onn, not only did his D-Max allow him to join last year's flood missions, but it also gave him the ability to earn a side income.

"I've always wanted to help those in need but never had the right vehicle for it. So two weeks after I got my X-Terrain, I went to Mentakab to help the NGOs there. The truck proved to be useful as it easily crossed muddy roads and tough obstacles."

"The D-Max has also helped me run my side business even better. I run a used cooking oil business, and while my SUV could help me transport the products, the D-Max has helped the business run more efficiently. It can carry much more as it can handle heavier loa
ds."

"Also, when the D-Max is not being used for work,
I take my kids
 on long drives and once even went to KL, Cameron Highlands and back to Batu Pahat in one day. When we went up to Cameron Highlands via its twisty and tight old roads, the D-Max really did shine as it was just so smooth. The ride and handling were nice, and the kids never complained in the back. I particularly like the D-Max's air conditioning controls as it reminds me of a Mercedes-Benz AMG, haha!"

Now if you’ve seen a striking pink D-Max then meet its owner, 31-year-old Tan Yong Jie (Jim),  Fire Contractor on the weekdays and adventurer on weekends, the D-Max has been the perfect companion for Jim and his pink-themed machine and gear.

"Everything from my bike, helmet, boat, kayak, and even fishing rod is pink in colour. So I can safely say the D-Max can pull it off too, which I am pleased about."

"I replaced my old truck with the new 3rd generation D-Max purely because it has incredible features. The engine's response is impressive, its fuel efficiency is great, and it comes with a factory-fitted diff-lock."

"A diff-lock is very important to me as it can get me out of sticky situations on my weekend adventures. Yes, I can fit aftermarket diff-locks on any truck, but a factory fitted one should prove to be long lasting and robust."

"What also helped me with my decision to purchase the D-Max X-Terrain
over other trucks
 is down to its luxurious interior and truck bed sliding tray. The D-Max's interior really does give you an impression that you are in a luxurious vehicle, and the sliding tray at the back has helped with work where I have had to carry many products to customers and clients."

"Coming from a guy who has previously owned small cars like the Kenari and Myvi, I don't feel the D-Max is cumbersome to drive around the city, which adds to the satisfactory ownership experience."

So as you can see and read, the all-new D-Max has many sides to it to suit different lifestyles. With over a century of expertise in creating some of the toughest and most rugged vehicles ever sold – Isuzu has combined its understanding of engineering with what the consumer wants in order to create the perfect base for a vehicle that sets the benchmark in terms of being able to do anything, that also suits the modern needs of buyers.

Don’t take our word for it, the stories above bear testament to what an all-rounder the Isuzu D-Max is.

Come to think of it, maybe it's time for me to get a D-Max too! Hmm…


BMW Malaysia To Introduce All-New 530e

BMW Malaysia will be introducing the all-new 530e soon, as their official Facebook page has posted teasers of the new plug-in hybrid.
We managed to
sample the all-new BMW 530e
 in Munich, giving us a good preview of the model that will eventually find its way here.
To recap, the BMW 530e expands on the 530i's four-cylinder B48 turbocharged petrol engine and is hooked up to a 113 hp and 250 Nm electric motor housed inside the ZF eight-speed automatic gearbox. Combined system output is 252 hp and 420 Nm of torque, enabling the BMW 530e to complete the century sprint in just 6.2 seconds.
Being a PHEV, the BMW 530e is able to cruise up to 48 km purely on electric power, though the actual range could be slightly less.
When the BMW 530e is launched, it will be competing against the Mercedes-Benz E350e and Volvo S90 T8.