Puspakom Goes Digital With MyPuspakom Mobile App

Puspakom Sdn Bhd today announced the introduction of its online booking and payment system called 'MyPuspakom' which has been up and running since end of 2017.
Customers can now make appointments and online payment for all the inspection centres in Malaysia through the mobile app, or via the official website.
Prior to the introduction of the app, customers could only make appointments via email or telephone where they actually had to call the Puspakom call centre.
However, with the app, a customer is not only able to view his/her booking and vehicle information, but is also able to retrieve booking records from their MyPuspakom account.
This makes it very useful for fleet operators and owners who have many vehicles that need to go through inspection at Puspakom outlets.
How it works is that the status of every inspection activity from making an appointment, all the way to completion of an inspection, will be emailed to MyPuspakom users in real time.
Puspakom’s CEO, Mohammed Shukor Ismail said, “MyPuspakom was developed with the aim to help our customers manage their time better, thus making inspection booking and process not only easier and faster, but more efficient and transparent.”
“It also helps to reduce congestion at certain inspection centres especially during peak hours and pre or post festive seasons, where a customer needs to be present 20 minutes before the appointment time.”
To date, there are more than 86,000 registered MyPuspakom users since the app was introduced in August 2017.


Frankfurt 2017: Kia Proceed Concept – One For The Wagon Lovers

A good thing about big motor shows is that there is something for everyone, and while it is almost guaranteed to see new supercars, sedans, and especially concepts, fans of wagons don’t really get to see new offerings as often as the rest.
But that isn’t the case this year, as the ongoing Frankfurt Motor Show saw Kia revealing something that will tickle wagon fans in the right places – the Proceed Concept.
Featuring a low, rakish roofline, 20-inch wheels, the brand’s signature Tiger Nose grille, large, angular air intakes, as well as an illuminated glass roof, the Proceed looks like a more flashy, wagon version of the Stinger sedan.
Other exterior highlights include a Sharkblade C-pillar, four-point LED lights, a GT logo in the rear, and the Lava Red paint which according to Kia combines 19-layers of paint, chrome, and lacquer.
The interior is filled with four split-back seats which are covered by over 100 meters of rippled black fabric, a virtual cockpit, a large display on the dashboard, and chromed Jaguar-ish rotary dials on the centre console. According to Kia, the car even offers a few types of fragrances for the occupants to choose from in the cabin.
Technical details are yet to arrive but rumour has it that the Proceed Concept could preview the next generation Cee'd and Pro_cee'd.


Proton’s Upcoming Turbocharged Compact SUV Is Worth Waiting For - Sub-RM 100k Price

After the successful launch of the Proton X70, Proton is expected to follow up on their turnaround plan with the introduction of a smaller SUV based on the Geely Binyue, which was recently introduced in China.
Positioned below the X70, the Geely Binyue would logically adopt the X50 name here (local name yet to be confirmed). Unlike the Proton X70/Geely Boyue, the newer Binyue utilizes an all-new BMA platform - a simpler version of the CMA platform that Geely co-developed with Volvo, currently underpinning the
XC40
.
In China, the Geely Binyue is priced from CNY 78,800 for the 1.0-litre turbocharged (134 hp/205 Nm) model paired to a six-speed manual. The more powerful 1.5-litre turbocharged (174 hp/255 Nm) model that is paired to a seven-speed wet-type dual-clutch transmission, is priced from CNY 88,800 onwards. For comparison, the Geely Boyue (Proton X70) is priced from CNY 129,800 for the base 1.8-litre turbocharged (181 hp/285 Nm) model fitted with the GKUI infotainment system.
The 1.5-litre turbocharged model is the one we will most likely receive here in Malaysia, as Proton’s Head of Engineering, Yang Jun,
confirmed
 back in December that Proton will be receiving Geely’s new 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine, but stopped short on mentioning which model would feature the engine.
Factoring the similar quantum in price gap between the Binyue and Boyue in China (25 to 30 percent difference in prices), Malaysian consumers can expect the forthcoming X50 to have a ballpark price very close to that of the Perodua Aruz (estimated from RM72,000). The Proton X70 is priced between RM99,800 and RM123,800.
Proton has yet to confirm any launch timing for this model, but Geely has previously announced that it will
license three models to Proton until 2020
 - the Boyue, Binyue, and
VF11 MPV
. The Boyue has since been launched as the Proton X70 back in December 2018, so it's quite reasonable to expect the Binyue to hit local showrooms later this year. The VF11 has been announced for China but is yet to go on sale there so we don't expect the model to arrive here before 2020.
When it arrives in Malaysia, the compact Proton SUV will compete against the Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-3, and Renault Captur, but considering its price, it's quite possible for it to attract buyers of the seven-seater Perodua Aruz, especially those who value safety and refinement over the utility of a third-row seat. The same can also be said for the SUV-esque seven-seater Honda BR-V, which starts from RM 80,989.


All-New 2016 Audi A4 Sedan, Avant (B9) Unveiled

As promised
, Audi has just taken the covers off its all-new
Audi

A4 sedan
 and Avant variants. The fifth-generation (B9) model is expected to make its full metal debut come this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show in September, but here’s a first look at what’s in store.
The all-new A4 is of course firmly sitting on the Volkswagen Group’s latest MLB Evo platform – one that will underpin all A4 models from this model upwards. Predominantly a FWD architecture, a lot of weight have been saved by its engineers in the process, making this car not only look sharp, but potentially drive a lot sharper too.
Aiding that approach is a suspension redesigned to incorporate better handling and comfort: new lightweight, five-link front and rear suspension system is on board, along with the latest development of Audi’s electromechanical power steering system.
Power has also been massively improved on the new A4 range, with Audi telling us that performance output figures are now up by 25% against its preceding models, likewise 21% better with fuel consumption. A total of three petrol (TFSI and four diesel (TDI) euro 6-compliant engines have been will be made available at market launch, with power figures ranging between 150hp to 272hp.
Exterior Styling:
Styling wise, the A4 largely adopts the design language we’ve seen on the all-new Q7: yes, that means the similarly wide single-frame grille is probably your easiest way to spot new from old. The headlamps are completely new designs as well, offering Xenon plus units as standard, with LED or matrix LEDs as options.
The tail-end of the vehicle has been reworked as well, but not in too many ways to set itself far apart from its predecessor. The trunk lid, multi-faceted 3D design taillamps and rear bumper are all distinctive from old. A total of 96 LED units make up the new rear lighting system (48 LEDs a taillight).
Overall, the all-new A4 is also significantly larger than its predecessor, measuring 25mm longer and 16mm wider: total figures are 4,726mm length, 1,842mm width. The height of the vehicle remains unchanged at 1,427mm – the lowest in the segment, says Audi, while thanks to the new MLB platform, the wheelbase is also longer by 12mm (2,820mm total).
Through its new dimensions, Audi is also claiming the best drag coefficient figures in its class, having achieved 0.23 Cd for the sedan variant.
Interior Design:
Thanks to its new, larger exterior body, the A4 is also being pinned by its makers to feature the “longest interior and greatest shoulder width at the front” against its competitors.
New colours and materials are available for greater interior customisation, with a further ambient lighting system available optionally. Most of all, Audi is for the first time offering new ‘sport’ and ‘design’ lines equipment concepts. You may also notice that the automatic climate control system features an entirely new interface.
Most eye-catching of all, is the optionally-available Audi virtual cockpit, which like you’ve seen in the all-new
TT here in Malaysia
, is mesmerising with its highly customisable displays, courtesy of the 12.3-inch LCD display screen that displaces the standard instrument panel.
For the infotainment, there’s a completely redesigned MMI operating concept, which now comes with a free-text search function, and a new “more natural” voice-control system” that understands more normal, everyday language voice inputs.
Choose to specify the optional MMI Navigation plus with MMI touch, and you’ll also be in for an 8.3-inch monitor, with the touchpad located within the rotary dial knob – just like you’d have it in the BMW iDrive system. The MMI Navigation plus also features LTE network capabilities.
TABLET:
 For those who desire further infotainment optimisation, Audi is including its new, removable, tablet computer system for rear passengers. To be used also as a rear entertainment system, the 10.1-inch display connects with MMI Navigation plus via Wi-Fi, allowing access to the menus of the radio, media, navigation and car functions.
For example, the rear-seat passengers can send a planned route to the driver, or the driver can start a radio or media program for them. Sound output is through the car’s sound system or through headphones.
The Android-based tablet features Tegra 40 processor from NVIDIA. The 32-gigabyte internal memory can be extended with micro-SD cards.
Performance & Powertrains:
At market launch, the all-new A4 will offer three petrol (TFSI and four diesel (TDI) Euro 6-compliant engines with power outputs ranging from 150hp to 272hp. As mentioned, the range of units have been updated to reduce fuel consumption by 21% and increase performance by 25%.
The auto start/stop function has been improved to now be able to shut off the engine at 7km/h upon deceleration to a stop. This is applicable for all engine variants, apart from the top-spec 3.0 TDI, which can perform the feat at 3km/h.
The baby of the engine family offered by the all-new A4 is a 1.4-litre TFSI (turbocharged) four-cylinder petrol engine. Power outputs for this new base model are 150hp and 250Nm of torque, with max torque kicking in at 1,500 to 3,500rpm. This is enough to propel the A4 1.4 TFSI from 0 to 100km/h in 8.9 seconds.
Two 2.0-litre TFSI models are available as well, with the more powerful version developing 252hp and 370Nm of torque, while the lower output version making 190hp and 320Nm.
The
2.0-litre TFSI feature a new innovation from Audi
, who explains, “Its technical refinements are the exhaust manifold integrated into the cylinder head, the rotary-valve model for thermal management, the Audi valve-lift system (AVS) for the outlet valves, the electric wastegate of the turbocharger and the dual fuel injection. In partial load, indirect injection in the inlet manifold supplements the FSI direct injection.
 “The intake valves close much earlier than usual; in connection with increased pressure in the intake manifold, this reduces throttling losses during aspiration.”
The four diesel-powered variants come in two states of tune each for the 2.0 TDI, and the 3.0 TDI - the latter’s top tune pushes up to 600Nm of torque!
New & Updated Transmissions:
To match its new range of powertrains, the all-new A4 offers a brand-new manual transmission (standard included for all TFSI and TDI A4s in Europe) – something we in Malaysia will most likely not get here.
Focusing on what is more likely to come to this part of the world, Audi has also incorporated its latest seven-speed S tronic to all A4 versions excluding the top-spec 3.0 TDI (that gets an eight-speed tiptronic, which itself has been reworked).
The seven-speed S tronic is a dual-clutch automatic transmission, which takes over from the continuously variable multitronic transmission. Low weight, reduced friction, and highly efficient oil lines are amongst the key developments for the use of this new transmission.
A4 Avant g-tron:
Taking a cue from the A3, the all-new Audi A4 is the second g-tron model to be offered by Audi. Running on natural gas (CNG), the A4 g-tron is powered by a 2.0-litre TFSI engine, which makes 170hp and 270Nm of torque.
The car itself will be available to the market late 2016.
Special gas tanks have been developed for the A4 g-tron, which are located near the rear axle of the vehicle. Audi explains, “They can hold 19 kilograms (41.9 lb) of gas at a pressure of 200 bar and are particularly light thanks to their novel layout.
“The inner layer consists of a matrix of gas-proof polyamide, while a second layer of mixed carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) and glass-fiber-reinforced plastic (GFRP) ensures extremely high strength. The third layer made of glass fiber helps visualize any external influences. Epoxy resin is used to bind the fiber materials.”
VIDEO: A closer look at the all-new Audi A4:


Tak Ubah Struktur Tambang, Harga Naik Sebab Pemandu Kurang - Grab

Grab Malaysia
 akhirnya memberi jawapan bahawa punca utama tambangnya berubah dan tidak menentu terutama baru-baru ini adalah disebabkan oleh kekurangan pemandu yang tersedia pada waktu itu untuk memenuhi permintaan yang tinggi.

Kenyataan tersebut dikeluarkan bagi menjawab persoalan yang dikeluarkan oleh Menteri Pengangkutan, Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong yang mahukan penyedia perkhidmatan
e-hailing
 memberi penjelasan berhubung kenaikan tambang perkhidmatan mereka.

Menurut kenyataan Grab, pada pertengahan bulan ini sahaja, jumlah pemandu di bawah platform mereka masih dalam keadaan kurang 70% berbanding sebelum pandemik melanda.

Punca Tambang Naik

Grab menjelaskan bahawa mereka tidak membuat sebarang perubahan terhadap struktur tambang. Sebaliknya, Grab mengguna pakai model harga dinamik bagi memastikan:

Penumpang mendapat perkhidmatan penghantaran apabila diperlukan

Pemandu menerima bayaran yang adil bagi tenaga dan masa mereka

Jelas Grab, apabila jumlah tempahan melebihi jumlah pemandu tersedia di sesuatu kawasan, caj tambang akan melonjak bagi menggalakkan lebih ramai pemandu pergi ke arah lokasi penumpang.

Keadaan permintaan dan penawaran tak menentu didorong oleh pelbagai faktor, termasuklah disebabkan ramai pemandu yang sudah tidak aktif sejak dua tahun lalu kerana COVID-19 yang melanda.

Tambah Grab, keputusan kerajaan menarik semula segala sekatan pergerakan termasuklah sambutan perayaan baru-baru ini membuatkan tempahan di platform mereka meningkat dengan pantas.

Kesesakan lalu lintas
 yang luar biasa juga telah meningkatkan kos (masa dan bahan api) untuk melayan segala tempahan, sekali gus mengurangkan keberkesanan kapasiti pemandu untuk menerima lebih banyak tempahan.

Grab Tingkatkan Insentif, Tarik Lebih Ramai Pemandu

Grab berkata meskipun mereka sedang berusaha untuk membawa lebih ramai pemandu, namun masalah untuk memenuhi tempahan akan terus berlaku memandangkan permintaan meningkat jauh melebihi jumlah peningkatan pemandu.

Baru-baru ini, Grab telah melaksanakan beberapa langkah untuk meningkatkan bekalan pemandu bagi memastikan mereka dapat menyediakan perkhidmatan mampu milik seperti:

Meningkatkan insentif untuk pemandu kembali ke jalan raya pada waktu puncak

Memberi subsidi 100% daripada keseluruhan kos pematuhan peraturan pemandu

Menawarkan bonus sehingga RM300 kepada pemandu sedia ada bagi merujuk dan membantu pemandu-pemandu baharu

Grab juga mencadangkan penumpang supaya merancang perjalanan mereka dan membuat tempahan perkhidmatan lebih awal daripada biasa.


The Ferrari SP3JC Is A One-Off Open Top F12tdf

What's better than a Ferrari? A one-off Ferrari. These models pop up from time to time, either a private commission by the ultra wealthy, or a more public offering that reflects Ferrari's broader interests and affiliations. In this case, we have the Ferrari SP3JC - not the prettiest name, but a Ferrari by any other name would be just as sweet. It starts off as an F12tdf, which is already a limited-run model, and essentially lops the roof off to create a one-off open top F12tdf.
This was commissioned by a client that isn't so keen on revealing his or her identity to the world, but they very much welcome the attention that this unique car brings. The only elements in the design brief were "open top" and "running gear of the F12tdf", so everything else was left to the imagination. It took over two years of back and forth between Ferrari and the client to produce the car you see here today.
The livery itself was inspired by the client's love for pop art, with a heavily front biased blue-on-white livery - what they're calling the Azzuro Met and Giallo Modena livery mashup, over the Bianco Italia white base. The interior is finished in blue leather with white inserts, with contrasting stitching all round. Even the bonnet features glass inserts to show off that glorious 780 hp V12 engine, a nice counterpoint to the carbon-fibre roll hoops round back.
Now this isn't a car you're likely to see replicated - after all, it's not like Ferrari F12s are available by the bucket, let alone the F12tdf - and moreover, it's a very unique expression that ties in with the owner, and one that doesn't translate well to any other owner.


Mitsubishi Announces Brand-New Small MPV Model, Due 2017

Mitsubishi Motors will begin production of an unnamed, brand-new small MPV at its new plant in Bekasi, Indonesia, which will start operations in April 2017.
The new 160,000 units per year plant will begin production with the all-new Pajero Sport SUV (based on the all-new Triton pick-up truck), followed by a brand-new small MPV and the Colt L300 light commercial van/pick-up truck.
Currently, the Pajero Sport is imported from Thailand while the Colt L300 is produced under contract by Isuzu's Indonesian plant.
Little is known about the brand-new small MPV, but considering the size of the Toyota Avanza-class vehicles segment in Indonesia, this upcoming Mitsubishi MPV should be something similar to the Avanza.
Mitsubishi Motors did not confirm if the new MPV will be coming to Malaysia, but said "Some parts of these vehicles built there will be exported to other ASEAN countries as the next major ASEAN production hub after the Laem Chabang Plant in Thailand."
Apart from the Grandis, Mitsubishi Motors MPVs are quite alien to most of us in Malaysia but the company used to sell a Toyota Innova-like model called the Kuda (also sold as the Adventure in the Philippines) in Indonesia, but this model has been discontinued for nearly 10 years. However the new MPV is not likely to be a successor to the Kuda/Adventure as Mitsubishi has described it as a 'Small MPV.'
No images or sketches were provided by perhaps it might be something slightly bigger and higher (a critical requirement in flash flood prone Jakarta) than the Japanese market Mitsubishi Minicab (main picture), maybe minus the costly sliding doors too.


Honda’s Prachinburi Plant Shows How Much Brand Has Progressed Since the 2011 Floods

2011 was without a doubt a year which Honda Motor Company would want to forget. The company’s production plant in Ayutthaya province, Thailand, which was building Hondas for the Thai market as well as other countries, was forced to be shut down for six months due to severe floods.

Because of the massive flood, supply of cars, production of components for CKD (completely-knocked-down) operations, as well as electrical and electronic parts by vendors within the ASEAN region were so badly affected that many markets including Malaysia, felt the effects.

Even though the Ayutthaya plant recovered and resumed operations within months, Honda was not going to take any chances in the future.

Immediately after the flood, Honda broke new ground to build a new production plant in the city of Prachinburi, about 115 km away from Ayutthaya.

Stretching across 2.65 square kilometres, Honda’s new plant in Prachinburi, which was launched in 2016, is not only flood proof as it is located on higher grounds compared to the Ayutthaya plant, but also more technologically advanced.

Located at the Rojana Industrial Park in Prachinburi province, the all-new plant, which is three times bigger than the Ayutthaya plant, is equipped with Honda’s highly-efficient and environmentally-responsible production technologies. It currently produces the current City, Jazz, as well as the new Civic, which is being exported to Vietnam, Philippines, Indonesia, Australia, New Zealand and Kenya.

However, for the Malaysian market, our Hondas are being assembled locally in Pegoh, Melaka, in case you were wondering.

Coming back to Prachinburi, we had the opportunity to visit the plant when we were in Thailand to sample
the new Civic
 recently, just to see how advanced the facility is, and how the cars are being built there.

Among the noteworthy technology and features of the HATC Prachinburi plant:

World’s first cell production-style ARC (Assembly Revolution Cell) Line, incorporating flowing cell production-style production units in the main line.

Production line which is 10% more efficient compared to that of a conventional line.

Stamping press which is 25% more efficient than a conventional line due to servo control and high speed feeder.

Welding line that is 40% more efficient than a conventional line with the application of compact and lightweight welding jigs.

A “Water Conveyor” to fully re-use water used to cool the plant’s production process.

A “skylight roof”, a roof with windows to use daylight to illuminate the plant floor instead of electricity.

With a production capacity of 120,000 units per year, Honda’s Prachinburi plant, which is currently producing the Civic, City, and the current-gen Jazz, will also be producing sub-compact and compact models in the future for both the domestic and export market.

“Thailand has increased its presence as one of Honda’s production hubs by supplying products and components not only for the home market but also for the world including ASEAN nations, which drive our global sales growth. I am committed to making certain that the role of Thailand will become even more valuable with the completion of this all-new Prachinburi factory with full advantage of Honda’s newest production technologies,” said Takahiro Hachigo, President, CEO, and Representative Director of Honda Motor.

Looking for a new Honda? Click
here
 to find the best deals.


The 2017 Toyota C-HR Has Launched Across Japan

Crossover fans across Japan can rejoice: Toyota has finally launched the 2017 C-HR following months of hype and displays. It's the second car to sit on the TNGA platform, following the fourth generation Prius. That being said, Toyota feels they have "realized the original feel in terms of the C-HR's driving performance through repeated driving tests being conducted on various types of roads around the world"- in effect saying they've made the C-HR fun-to-drive.
The dampers have been tuned to suit European roads, in an effort to bring its driving dynamics and characteristics up to scratch with more continental offerings. There’s a surprising amount of focus on improving handling, with “Response, Linearity, and Consistency” being the key ideas behind responsive driving performance. Even Toyota GAZOO Racing (Akio Toyoda’s sort-of side project) has taken a pre-production C-HR to compete in the 24 Hours of Nurburgring.
There’s also a lot of work done on the exterior in order to make the C-HR an aesthetically appealing product. Toyota’s product range in general has seen designers adopting dynamic sharp lines and creases, doing away with the old beige cookie-cutter looks of previous generation models. The C-HR is the first of its kind for Toyota, although arguably it picks up where the RAV-4 left off all those years ago when it grew into a larger, full-fledged SUV.
Buyers in Japan have an option of 2 powertrains, with 2 grades for each powertrain. The first is something you’ll be more familiar with: it’s the 2ZR-FXE hybrid powertrain out of the Prius, and it only comes in front-wheel drive form (although if the electric all-wheel drive Prius takes off, that technology may find its way into the C-HR). The second is an exciting little turbocharged 1.2-litre engine, with a solid 114 hp and 190 Nm of torque from just 1,500 rpm. The turbocharged models are only available with all-wheel drive and a Super CVT-I transmission with 7 virtual ratios.
Toyota expects to shift 6,000 of these C-HRs across Japan every month, and it’s only a matter of time before we see the C-HR introduced in other regions as well. The full specs for each variant and prices are listed below.
Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices
Grade
Engine
Transmission
Drive
Price in Yen (RM)
S-T
8NR-FTS
(1.2L turbo)
Super CVT-i
[Mounted with 7-speed sports sequential shiftmatic]
4WD
2,516,400 (97,095)
G-T
2,775,600 (107,163)
S
Toyota Hybrid System II with reduction gear
(2ZR-FXE 1.8L)
2WD
2,646,000 (102,082)
G
2,905,200 (112,167)

All Grades
Collision avoidance assist package "Toyota Safety Sense P", electric parking brake, three-spoke leather steering wheel, Smart Entry & Smart Start system, etc.
"G", "G-T"
18-inch aluminum wheels, LED front fog lamps, Blind Spot Monitor, Front & Rear Parking Assist Sonar, seat surface (high quality fabric + leather), etc.


Perodua Myvi Price Drop: Which Variant to Buy?

With five variants of the Perodua Myvi available, which one is right for you?

Following the Prime Minister’s recent announcement that there will be a 100% sales tax exemption on new completely-knocked-down (CKD) vehicles and a 50% exemption for completely-built-up (CBU) vehicles until the end of the year, if you've been wanting to get your hands on a new car, now is the time.

Furthermore, Perodua announced today that they are offering discounts from 3% to 6% for their models even before the tax exemption comes into play.

One of the most sought after models will definitely be
the Myvi
, and if you’ve been eyeing one and can't decide which variant to get, let us guide you through a spec-by-spec comparison to help you decide which version you should get.

First and foremost, there are five variants for you to choose from, with pricing (on the road without insurance) as mentioned below. Please keep in mind that these prices are before discount or sales tax exemption, and they will be slightly lower by the time you visit the showroom:

Myvi 1.3L G Manual – RM42,790

Myvi 1.3L G Automatic –RM44,590

Myvi 1.3L X Automatic –RM46,590

Myvi 1.5L H Automatic – RM50,290

Myvi 1.5L AV Automatic –RM54,090

The reason why we’re sharing this spec-by-spec guide is due to the fact that the difference in price between one variant and another is only a small margin, which translates into only a few hundreds in monthly installments.

So, if you know exactly what the car offers, and what is the differences are in terms of features, you will be able to decide whether to go for a higher-spec model, or to just stick to a lower-spec variant and save some money in the process.

First let's look at the list of standard features offered in every variant, starting with the engines.

Powering the all-new Myvi are the 1.3- and 1.5-litre Dual VVT-i four-cylinder engines from Toyota’s
 all-aluminium NR-series family
 manufactured at the
Daihatsu Perodua Engine Manufacturing Sdn Bhd (DPEM)
 plant in Sendayan, Negri Sembilan.

The 1.3-litre 1NR-VE engine, available in conjunction with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission, is rated with outputs of 95 PS and 121 Nm – identical numbers to its application in the Bezza. Auto start/stop is available in the higher of the two trim grades of 1.3-litre engine.

The 1.5-litre 2NR-VE engine, meanwhile, is paired exclusively to a 4-speed auto and comes standard with auto start/stop. It is rated with outputs of 103 PS and 136 Nm. Although built on the same block, it is not exactly the same engine as the slightly more potent 2NR-FE mill powering the Toyota Vios with 107 PS and 140 Nm.

Both engine versions of the Myvi are certified as energy efficient vehicles (EEV) with official rated fuel consumption ranging from 4.7 to 5.0 litres/100km, supposedly making it 32% more efficient than the outgoing model.

The list of standard features is as mentioned below:

1.3 G Manual and 1.3 G Automatic

175/65 R14 tyres

Side mirrors: electric adjustment with integrated signals

LED headlights: auto on/off, follow-me-home, manual leveling

LED tail lights

Front wipers: aeroslim-type, speed sensing

Acoustic windshield glass

Fabric upholstery

Driver seat height adjustment

Rear seats: 60:40 split-folding, integrated headrests

Seat back & side pockets

Front seat shopping hooks

Keyless entry

Audio: USB, 4 speakers

4 airbags - dual frontal, dual side

ABS, EBD

Electronic stability control (VSC)

Traction Control (TRC)

Emergency Stop Signal (ESS)

Anti-snatch hook

Reverse sensors

ISOFIX

Seatbelt reminder: all passengers

1.3 X Automatic gets all of the above, plus additional features such as:

Chrome finish: front grille, door handles, front fog lamp slot,

Side mirrors: power folding, electric adjustment with integrated signals

Front fog lamps

High grade fabric upholstery

Rear seats: 60:40 split-folding, adjustable headrests

Audio: USB, 4 speakers, Bluetooth, Microphone

USB port on driver seat

Steering: Leather-wrapped, audio controls

Hill-start assist

Front parking sensors

1.5 H Automatic adds:

185/55 R15 tyres

Bodykit: Front & side skirting, two-tone rear bumper, rear spoiler

Built-in Smart Tag

6 airbags: dual frontal, dual side, dual curtain

1.5 AV Automatic (RM55,300) adds:

Leather upholstery

Multimedia infotainment, Android Smart Link

Advanced Safety Assist (A.S.A.) - Pre-Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Pedal Misoperation Control, Front Departure Warning

Reverse Camera

Solar and security window film

Last but not least, the Myvi is offered with a selection of six colour choices:

Ivory White

Glittering Silver

Mystical Purple

Lava Red

Peppermint Green (1.3 variants only)

Granite Grey (1.5 variants only)

All versions of the Myvi are covered by a 5-year / 150,000 km warranty.

So there you have it – all the differences between each variant, what you get, what you don’t get, and what not, to give you a clearer picture and to help you make the right buying decision.


Volkswagen is Rearranging Their Departments for Agile Development

It's a fairly common practice for newer companies and startups to adopt a less traditional structure in their workforce, with less emphasis on heirarchy and more emphasis on flexibility of operations. Anyone working in a fairly serious corporate position will understand the difficulty of getting approvals from up the chain, and when you take away the red tape it's possible to test and develop at a much quicker rate.
Agile development methodology has its advantages and drawbacks, but Volkswagen feels that their company would benefit from this shift in structure. Naturally not every department can benefit from this, especially smaller ones, but in areas where development needs to be sped up they have chosen to create smaller groups that report to an individual manager which will set their targets and goals, making them function more effectively. There's also more equality in terms of opinion of each member, which can lead to unique solutions.
But they aren't the first company to adopt this. Honda has had something similar for a long time, where they have meetings in which everybody can speak their mind. Perhaps they may not have adopted agile methods on the whole, but there were elements of it in their corporate structure that helped a great deal with the way they solved issues. It was especially important to have such a system when the pressure from Soichiro Honda himself was so strong that people worked in fear of repercussions for speaking up.
What this also means is that there is less of a risk of another dieselgate issue. Smaller groups allow for better management and check and balance, rather than engineers having to operate as individuals in a very large group. With funds and time being short, Volkswagen has been forced to put a lot of new model development on hold as they sort out their current issues, and this shift in structure may lead to a shortened timeline from development to production for newer products. After all, Honda has had a number of products that have gone from drawing board to full model in just 2 years.
One of the more obvious applications for this restructuring is in the IT department, where they've now began pairing employees off and assigning content to each pair which helps with both training and speeds up the development of particular content. In the future, Volkswagen is also considering applying the pairing system to outsourced employees- i.e. having one employee in Germany paired with one in India. The dissolution of the traditional corporate structure may be frowned upon by the older generation, but its results are hard to argue with (when executed correctly).


GALLERY: SPAD Tows Vehicles In Klang Valley For "Illegal" Uber, GrabCar Use

Just last week, we reported that the Land Transport Commission (SPAD) had confiscated
up to seven unlicensed vehicles being used as taxis
 near the Penang airport, and now, it looks like things are equally getting serious in the Klang Valley.
A social media posting by SPAD claimed that another 12 vehicles were taken in, after being caught as Uber and GrabCar service drivers without the right licenses to do so. The vehicles had come from several areas in the Klang Valley, including Sunway, Times Square, Damansara, Puchong and Bangsar.
Of the vehicles hauled in were several models that included the Perodua Myvi, Proton Preve Toyota Camry, Honda Jazz, Hyundai Elantra and a Toyota Vios. 11 of these vehicles were using the GrabCar service, while only one was on Uber.
The on-going SPAD operation is said to be assisted by local taxi drivers, obviously unsettled by the service that is said to undercut their means. The fact being that licensed taxi operators have to go through significant qualification processes before being able to do their jobs, while services like Uber and GrabCar allow for anyone to effective use their own vehicles, and turn them into a taxi-like service.
With no final decision in sight just yet, SPAD has been threatening severe action against Uber and GrabCar, even suggesting an
amendment to the Land Public Transport Act 2010
 that could effectively hinder the operations of those who utilise Uber and Grab Car’s services inappropriately.
*Images courtesy of
SPAD Facebook page


Production Kia Niro Teased – A Hybrid-only SUV

Kia has announced today that it will be introducing a new hybrid-only SUV called the Kia Niro at February’s 2016 Chicago Auto Show.
Although the Niro will be making its debut in the US, Kia says the Niro, by virtue of its dedicated hybrid platform, will add a ‘fresh dimension to the global compact SUV market,’ alluding to the possibility of an introduction outside of North America.
The all-new Kia Niro is the first model to be based on Kia’s new dedicated eco-car platform, and the HUV is set to achieve a sub-90 g/km CO2 emissions rating (combined, based on the New European Driving Cycle) thanks to its all-new downsized gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain.
The platform could be similar to the one used by Hyundai for its upcoming Ioniq – a Corolla-sized model that is positioned between the Toyota Prius and Prius c, and is available either as a pure electric vehicle, petrol-electric hybrid or petrol-electric plug-in hybrid.
If the Niro name sounds familiar to you, that's because the Niro Concept was first presented at the 2013 Frankfurt International Auto Show.


Final Examiners Are JPJ Officers, So Why Punish Driving Schools?

JPJ officers are the final examiners of driving school students, so why should the driving school be penalised when former students are involved in road accidents?

The
debacle between driving schools and JPJ
 continues as CT Balan, the Operations Director of a driving school, Safety Driving Centre, said JPJ had no right to penalise driving schools as its JPJ officers are the final examiners of the students.

According to a report by FMT, Balan has come out and said that it would be wrong for JPJ to penalise driving schools that adhered to the
syllabus and guidelines provided by the department
.

"How can JPJ penalise driving schools when we follow its syllabus? In fact, the examiners for the final exam to judge a driver's competence and adherence to all road regulations are from JPJ itself", said Balan.

Instead, Balan reckons that JPJ should concentrate on enforcement instead of blaming driving schools for the high number of road offences and accidents.

"Enforcement is very loose, and road offenders can easily get away with little to no punishment," he said. "The authorities must be stricter and more consistent in enforcing the law."

Balan added that JPJ should introduce a mandatory defensive driving course for all drivers to take after the two-year probationary licence period to help
decrease the high number of road accidents and offences.

"If drivers are required to go back for a defensive driving course, they could refresh their knowledge on road regulations and leave with more confidence in handling their vehicles and knowledge on road safety," he said.

Balan is also not alone in the opinion that it is unfair to penalise driving schools as Law Teik Hua, the Head of Universiti Putra Malaysia's Road Safety Research Centre, agreed that it would be unfair for JPJ to penalise them.

Instead, he thinks that we should better implement the Demerit Points System, which is around but ineffective.

"The tools are there. Why not improve them and make them highly visible to the public?" We need to think about the Demerit Points System for Traffic Offences (Kejara), which is still around but seems to be ineffective," he said.

The
Kejara system
 was introduced and implemented in 2017. A motorist accumulates demerit points for every traffic offence they commit. When the maximum number of points is reached, his driving licence is suspended or revoked.

It has proven to be effective in other countries, but it has yet to prove itself locally since it has not been adequately enforced here.

An article by The SUN Daily, interviewing the former Road Safety Research Director-General, Dr. Wong Shaw Voon suggested that the general perception in Malaysia is that Kejara is just another stream of revenue for the government.

To prove this wrong, JPJ would have to revisit Kejara and enforce it properly, as it can effectively squash bad general perceptions and road accidents as well as destructive driving behaviours.

Between January and September 2021, 255,532 road accidents and 3,302 road deaths were reported.


CarTell Track Attack Vol. II: CarTell's Track Attack returns, mesmerizing enthusiasts once more

Carlist.my's CarTell once again captivated enthusiasts with a more significant and explosive
CarTell Track Attack
 Vol. II time attack event at the renowned Sepang International Circuit on the thrilling evening of May 27, 2023.

A remarkable lineup of nearly 100 cars graced the event, featuring a dazzling array of supercars, heavily-modified track beasts, as well as a wide range of beloved JDMs and Continentals.

The atmosphere was electrified as the scent of burning rubbers filled the air, accompanied by the exhilarating sound of pops and bangs echoing from 4:00 pm to midnight. Thanks to the accompanying Velocity Motorshow, who partnered up with Carlist, the track attack event turned into one big Speedfest.

On top of the time attack sessions, crowds of petrolheads and motorsport fans flocked to the Sepang International Circuit to attend the Velocity Motorshow, which hosted a Perodua Meet&Greet that featured a modified car show.

Back on the track and following the obligatory track safety briefing, a symphony of spine-tingling exhaust notes reverberated through the circuit as BMWs, Porsches, and a host of Gazoo Racing cars plus more unleashed their unbridled power.

Among the adrenaline-fueled participants, a couple of Nissan GTR R35s and a BMW M4 achieved the overall fastest lap times.

Witnessing these automotive beauties blitzing down the main straight at the CarTell Track Attack Vol. II event held at the North Paddock of SIC was truly awe-inspiring. There were two sessions this time around, one before dawn and another after.

The daylight session under the bright sun saw a host of cars attempting to record the fastest times possible, but eventually, after tirelessly going in and out of the pits and attempting more timed attacks, it was Ivan Yeo Cheng Joo in his Honda Civic, Alif Hamdan in his 'Fatboy' Proton Satria and Hisham Jaffar in his BMW M4 that set the fastest times in their respected categories.

However, a murdered-out Nissan GTR R35 commandeered by Firhat Mokhzani set the fastest time of the event, setting the night ablaze as it conquered the corners of Sepang.

This particular Nissan GTR R35 is no stranger to the straights and corners of the Sepang track, as it is specifically tuned for high-performance speed and handling.

It showcased its prowess by clocking an impressive time of 2:14, earning the respect and admiration of fellow drivers present at the event. It was a momentous achievement that left a lasting impression on all who witnessed the R35.

The event received tremendous support from several generous partners, making it accessible to a wider audience.
Bridgestone
 took the lead as the title sponsor, while
Warranty Smart
 and
GR Garage Balakong - Wing Hin Automobile
 stepped up as the main sponsors. Additionally,
ENZO
,
PROFI-CAR
,
Aozoom
,
Denso
, and
Momentum Autoparts
 lent their support as ground sponsors, ensuring the success of the event.

Bridgestone
's Tammy Yap said, "The Japanese tyre brand aims to communicate the fun of motorsport to as many people as possible, which is why they support various domestic and overseas motorsport events ranging from top-level professional series to grassroots amateur races."

Warranty Smart
 returning as one of the main sponsors for the second year in a row, not only helped facilitate the event but also provided many taxi rides around the track for individuals that attended.

Warranty Smart's representative Lean Saw said, "Last year was great and that they were very excited for this year's event. We prepared more for this year's event and wanted to make it more majestic."

Coming in as a new main sponsor this year is
GR Garage Balakong - Wing Hin Automobile
, one of the only Gazoo Racing Garages outside of Japan. Most of the GR Yaris that participated on the day were bought from their Garage.

Jonathan Tay from GR Garage Balakong - Wing Hin Automobile said, "The most popular model so far is of course the GR Yaris, just look at the many GR Yaris that participated in the event. The car represents the best of both worlds, you get performance, and you also get relatively affordable maintenance. It's a go-to car for enthusiasts."

Overall, the fastest lap times from the two sessions were clocked by Firhat Mokhzani in his Nissan GTR R35 with a time of 2:14.889, followed by Lye Pin Aun in his Nissan GTR R35 as well with a time of 2:18.090, and Hisham Jaffar in his BMW M4 with a time of 2:20.493. Remarkable times, indeed.

So will there be a CarTell Track Attack Vol. III? We'd definitely like to have it and are indeed working on it. So, keep tabs on us and we'll keep you posted.


My New Proton – The Promise of a New Brand Experience

It takes a brave person to admit one’s mistakes, but the acknowledgment of one’s fault is also the first and most crucial step to realizing improvement. For the dozens of writers and reporters gathered at Proton’s HQ in Shah Alam for this morning’s media briefing, the admission by CEO Dato’ Harith Abdullah that Proton service centres, in his own selection of words, “suck” is a headline-making statement.
At the half-day long event this morning, in which we were also given a quick preview of the upcoming all-new
Proton Perdana
, the Proton CEO, alongside his Chairman Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamed, acknowledged the company’s much-publicized failings in quality and aftersales, resulting in continuous contraction of its once-unassailable market share.
Proton
’s decline began in the early 2000s, thanks to a combination of poor vehicle quality and the entry of Japanese B-segment vehicles into the RM80k price bracket that gave buyers something extra to think about. From selling over 200,000 cars in 2001 and 2002, Proton barely managed to cross the 100,000 threshold last year. Not only is it seeing
Perodua
 disappear into the distance, the company now finds both
Honda
 and
Toyota
 breathing down its neck.
Having taken the admirable initiative of admitting its faults, Proton has put together a turnaround plan in an effort to reverse its ailing fortunes. The comprehensive ‘My New Proton’ exercise unveiled today is heralded by the company as more than a mere slogan, but as a promise of improved customer experience that starts with the closing of a sale at showroom level extending all the way to the brand’s Achilles Heel – aftersales.
“This year marks our 31
st
 year in business, which means we are into our new decade. For the past 30 years, it is impossible that had not learnt anything and today, Proton takes this necessary step, to stride up to the plate if it wants to remain relevant to Malaysians,” Dato’ Harith said.
The well-crafted presentation slides prepared by Dato’ Harith’s aides covered a wide range of approaches that seek to deliver the promise on multiple fronts. The wide-reaching service network is set to be rationalized with emphasis placed on dealers setting up integrated 3S, 4S, or as a minimum, 1S + 2S centres. Accompanying the revamped network will be range of premium services, albeit being made available at selected outlets, such as pick-up and delivery, 80-minute quick service, Mobile Assist, and courtesy cars.
The wide-ranging measures form a concerted programme on Proton’s part in an effort to lift the brand’s standing among Malaysians. Even more importantly, they need to signify a change in mindset amongst those within the organization to re-orient themselves in the pursuit of excellence. The importance and far-reaching nature of organizational changes to Proton is perfectly encapsulated by the unveiling of a new brand logo that will adorn the face of all new Proton models to come, starting with the upcoming
Perdana
.

Whilst the overall messages of the day were positive and encouraging, seasoned observers of the industry will do well to treat Proton’s latest proclamations with only cautious optimism. This is not the first time we’ve heard declarations from Proton that a corner has been turned or that quality issues have been consigned to the past. Those unfulfilled promises in the past have yet to be erased from the Malaysian psyche.
It is worth noting that although Proton’s decline began in 2002, there was a gradual uptrend from 2006 to 2011, when the company was under the management of Dato’ Syed Zainal (DSZ), who was refreshingly honest in acknowledging the company’s shortcomings. DSZ’s contributions are still felt at Proton – the company’s best sellers continue to be models that were introduced under his watch, namely the
Saga
,
Persona
, and
Exora
.
Dato’ Harith’s candidness in admitting Proton’s faults and facing them head-on is a positive sign and a welcomed show of humility and sincerity on the part of a company that has been for too long seen as arrogant and too caught up with its domestic success as a
jaguh kampung.
 It is unlikely that Proton will ever restore itself to the dominant position it once enjoyed in our market, but with the right attitude, it has every chance of becoming a brand and institution that Malaysians can finally take pride in.


MINI Launches INTENCITY Nationwide Roadshow

BMW
 Group Malaysia will be offering the chance for everyone to experience and test drive their newest
MINI
 models in a nationwide roadshow tour that will hit venues in East and Peninsular Malaysia.
The new MINI 3-door, MINI 5-door and new
MINI Countryman
 will be on display for all to explore, enquire, and admire.
There, visitors will be in for a range of activities, promotions, and more that will entice them into the MINI lifestyle.
Visitors will up to be gifted with test drive gifts and an assortment of MINI merchandise. As for deals, visitors are able to own a mini from just RM63 per day at the event.
Here are the dates for MINI INTENCITY:


Fuel Price Update: 4th May to 10th May – 1 Sen Down For RON97

The Ministry of Finance Malaysia has announced the updated prices of petrol and diesel fuels starting from 4th May.
The price of RON97 petrol will decrease 1 sen to RM 2.80 per litre, while the price of RON95 petrol is capped at RM 2.08 per litre.
The price of diesel will remain capped at RM 2.18 per litre for Euro 2M and RM 2.28 for Euro 5 respectively.
In summary, the prices for petrol and diesel are listed below:
RON95 – RM 2.08 per litre (unchanged, capped)
RON97 – RM 2.80 per litre (up 1 sen)
Diesel Euro 2M – RM 2.18 per litre (unchanged, capped)
Diesel Euro 5M – RM 2.28 per litre (unchanged, capped)


Volvo Cars Across Europe Will Soon Warn Each Other Of Bad Road Conditions

Volvo vehicles across Europe will soon have the ability to communicate and warn each other of slippery road conditions or road hazards that may lie up ahead.
An industry first, the Hazard Light Alert and Slippery Road Alert safety system uses a cloud-based network to share real-time data of road conditions. By anonymously collecting road surface information from cars further ahead, the system is able to warn drivers approaching a slippery or hazardous road section in advance.
As soon as any equipped Volvo switches on its hazard lights, the Hazard Light Alert sends a signal to all nearby Volvo cars connected to the cloud service. This is particularly useful on blind corners and over crests on the road.
The system was first introduced in 2016 on Volvo 90 Series cars (S90, XC90, V90, and V90 CC) in Sweden and Norway. As of next week, the features become available to Volvo drivers across Europe. They come as standard on all new Volvos (2020 make year) and can even be retrofitted on earlier Volvo ‘SPA’ and ‘CMA’ platform models.
Volvo hopes to collaborate with more manufacturers to start sharing anonymised data related to traffic safety across car brands.
Click
here
 for the best deals on Volvo cars.


2021 Perodua Ativa Bodykit: GearUp vs Modellista vs TRD vs Albermo

Apabila berbicara tentang ubah suai kenderaan, ianya tidak akan pernah habis. Maklumlah, pelbagai aksesori tambahan boleh ditambah pada kereta anda untuk menjadikannya jauh lebih baik. Segalanya bergantung kepada citarasa dan ketebalan poket anda sendiri.

Bila kita cakap tentang
Perodua
, ramai yang sudah sedia tahu bahawa Perodua menawarkan pakej
GearUp
 dengan menambah aksesori tambahan pada kereta. Untuk pengetahuan anda, wajah
Perodua Ativa
 bersama aksesori GearUp telah pun tersebar di media sosial sebelum ini. Antara GearUp dan body kit yang boleh dicari di pasaran aftermarket, mana satu yang lebih mengancam?

1. GearUp Blaze Body Kit

Melalui gambar rasmi GearUp pada Perodua Ativa di lama web Perodua, kit badan yang dikenali sebagai Blaze Body Kit itu kelihatan tegap dan sedikit garang dengan rekaan skid plate bergigi dibahagian bawah bumper hadapannya.

Di bahagian tepi, kit badan Blaze ini turut menerima penambahan seperti kemasan krom di bahagian belakang skirt sisi kereta. Bukan itu sahaja, terdapat juga penambahan di bahagian belakang kereta seperti kemasan pada bahagian nombor pendaftaran bersama tip ekzos dalam kemasan krom.

Menerusi risalah yang tular di media sosial serta portal automotif tempatan, kit badan Blaze ini boleh didapati dengan harga RM2,500. Namun seperti anda tahu, aksesori GearUp oleh Perodua ini merangkumi bahagian dalaman dan luaran. Selain menukar kit badan Ativa, dengan harga bermula RM30 hingga RM800, anda juga boleh memilih untuk mendapatkan tempat duduk bertemakan Blaze, pelindung bumper belakang, scuff plate LED, lampu kabin pada bahagian lantai kaki, jaring barangan, penebat penutup hud, dan juga pakej Ultility (visor pintu, tray barangan dan karpet coil).

2. Modellista Body Kit

Seperti yang anda tahu, Perodua Ativa dibina berdasarkan model
Daihatsu Rocky
 serta Toyota Raize. Untuk makluman anda, Modellista ada menyediakan kit badan yang lebih sporty dan garang kepada Raize serta Rocky di Pasaran Jepun. Kalau pada Toyota Raize dan Daihatsu Rocky boleh masuk, tak mustahil boleh masuk pada Ativa juga kan? Apa yang tak bolehnya, kita yang buat dia. Terdapat dua jenis kit badan yang ditawarkan oleh Modellista iaitu Advance Style Body Kit dan Elegant Ice Style Body Kit.

a) Advance Blast Style Body Kit

Daihatsu Rocky

Modellista telah menyediakan kit badan Advance Blast Style body untuk Daihatsu Rocky dan Toyota Raize. Bagi Daihatsu Rocky, kit badan Advance Blast Style hadir dengan spoiler hadapan bersama kemasan krom dan LED, skirt sisi dengan kemasan krom serta kemasan tambahan pada bahagian bumper belakang kereta.

Selain itu, Modellista turut menawarkan aksesori tambahan lain secara berasingan seperti spoiler belakang yang seakan akan berbentuk tanduk, muffler cutter serta kemasan krom tambahan lampu hadapan serta bahagian belakang kereta.

Toyota Raize

Sementara itu, Toyota Raize yang menggayakan Advance Blast Style Body Kit kelihatan sedikit berbeza daripada kit yang digunakan oleh Rocky. Paling ketara ialah reka bentuk gril serta rekaan bumper hadapannya. Terus terang saya katakan, gril hadapan Toyota Raize kelihatan lebih menarik daripada Daihatsu Rocky. Dengan penambahan kit badan yang lebih sporty, lagi mengancam la rupa Toyota Raize ini. Kit ini hadir bersama spoiler hadapan pada bumper, side skirt serta kemasan tambahan pada skirt belakang kereta.

Sementara itu, terdapat juga tawaran penambahan lain secara berasingan untuk kit badan Modellista Advance Blast Style seperti kemasan krom pada beberapa tempat seperti di gril hadapan, sisi pintu serta bahagian belakang kereta. Terdapat juga pilihan tayar 18-inci dwi-tona dengan lima jejari dikenali X-Claw II, yang hadir dengan tayar Falken Ziex ZR914F.

b) Modellista Elegant Ice Style

Sekiranya kit badan Modellista Advance Blast Style menonjolkan ciri-ciri dinamik Toyota Raize, kit badan Elegant Ice Style ini pula agak sedikit berlainan daripada kit tersebut. Meskipun penambahan aksesori pada kereta melibatkan bahagian yang sama, namun kit badan Elegant Ice Style ini kelihatan bersahaja, tidak keterlaluan dan ketara seperti kit badan Advance Blast Style. Nama pun ice, mestilah kena cool!

Antara kelainan pada kit ini berbanding kit Advance Blast Style ialah spoiler hadapan tanpa LED, skirt sisi tanpa kemasan krom serta kemasan bumper belakang yang lebih ringkas. Selain itu, Modellista turut menawarkan penambahan lain secara berasingan seperti set 16-inci tayar aloi, muffler cutter dan kemasan krom di bahagian belakang.

3. TRD Body Kit

Toyota telah pun memperkenalkan aksesori TRD untuk menaikkan lagi wajah sporty pada Toyota Raize keluaran mereka. Pada bahagian bumper hadapan, kemasan berwarna hitam itu diperbuat daripada PPE resin. Di bahagian sisi, skirt Raize bersambung terus ke bawah sehingga 61mm berbanding Standard.

Terdapat juga pelekat TRD yang diperbuat daripada polyvinyl chloride resin pada sisi pintu dan di bahagian bawah lampu belakang kereta. Bukan itu sahaja, pemegang pintu turut diletakkan pelindung yang menyerupai gentian karbon turut disertakan. Pendek kata, memang power kit TRD ni. Gabungan warna merah serta hitam pada kit badan menaikkan keseksian SUV kompak Toyota Raize ini.

4. Albermo XCR11

Nampak sama, tapi bukan dia! Baru-baru ini, pengeluar kit badan kustom terkenal di Jepun telah memperkenalkan kit badan untuk Daihatsu Rocky yang kelihatan seakan-akan serupa seperti
Lamborghini Urus
 yang lebih mampu milik. Alang-alang nak upgrade luaran, tukar terus jadi Lambo la!

Kit badan ini terdiri daripada bumper hadapan yang menyerupai Lamborghini Urus, gril hadapan, serta pemasangan spoiler belakang. Walau bagaimanapun, pakej yang ditawarkan oleh Albermo ini tidak termasuk semburan cat. Mereka juga menyatakan bahawa tiada jaminan pemasangan produk tersebut boleh memberikan kesan negatif kepada pemasangan sensor serta sistem pintar lain yang terpasang pada model asal.

Antara kit badan GearUp Blaze, Modellista, TRD mahupun Albermo, kit badan mana yang paling menarik bagi anda? Kongsikan dengan kami!

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SPYSHOTS: 2015 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT S Spotted In Malaysia!

Looky, looky… what have we got here? Oh boy, that’s a
2015 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT S
 on the back on a trailer, being chauffeured around on what could be its first official tour of Malaysia.
We spotted this photo being shared around on social media courtesy of
What A Car’s FB page
 (his colleague is reportedly the eagle-eyed photographer here), and make no mistake folks, this is the all-new Mercedes-Benz AMG GT S: the hotter version of the AMG GT duo, that we know is being
primed for a Malaysian launch
 this year.
It’s so seemingly excited to be here, it’s even got its little rear wing up wagging around.
While many have thought of the AMG GT to be a replacement for the now-gone SLS AMG, you've got to remember that this is actually a size smaller that the mighty SLS. At the arrival of the AMG GT, Mercedes-Benz discontinued the SLS's production, which left the AMG GT as the flagship supercar of the brand. Even the iconic AMG 6.2-litre naturally-aspirated V8 was retired in favour of a new turbocharged 4.0-litre V8. But as the numbers and global reviews have dictated, that doesn't mean the AMG GT is any bit slower or more docile than the SLS.
In direct competition with the Porsche 911, the AMG GT S you see here makes a whopping 503hp and 650Nm of torque from its brand-new Mercedes-Benz 4.0-litres V8 bi-turbo (M178) engine. There’s a more docile 456hp version dubbed the AMG GT, but we can’t say for sure if that’s anywhere in town yet. Either way, both AMG GTs have their immense power sent to a seven-speed dual-clutch AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT-7 transmission.
Top speeds for the AMG GT S is listed at 311km/h, with a 0-100km/h time of 3.8 seconds.
With
sales figures breaking records these days
, is
Mercedes-Benz
 Malaysia speeding up the arrival of its all-new supercar? We shall wait and see, but these are exciting times, especially so since BMW have launched their Malaysian assault on the segment as well, in the form of the BMW i8.


Sometimes, less isn’t more. With all the craze these days surrounding the ‘standard format’ 5-door, 5 seat SUV which comes in various size segments, they’re simply not up to scratch for a buyer who absolutely needs 3 rows of passenger space.

SUV Buying Guide - Which 7-Seater Budget-Friendly SUV Suits You Best?

For most in that situation, price is also a major consideration, so something like a
Mazda CX-9
 is just asking too much for more fuss-free needs, and in that case, there is a healthy selection of vehicles that deliver utmost practicality minus the premium.

Bear in mind with the cars featured below, you might notice that any claims of it actually being an SUV
are shaky at best
. Sure, it’s styled to resemble one and does offer a higher ground clearance, but realistically can’t be trusted to tackle anything more than a lightly neglected field without getting bogged down.

At these price points, you can’t expect all-wheel-drive (much less four-wheel drive) nor anything even resembling an excess of power, technology, or luxury. But as a plus they get the job done while being less mechanically complicated and more accessible, and ultimately that’s what counts.

Mitsubishi XPANDER

Prior to
arriving on Malaysian shores
, the newest member of the group had spent some years in Thailand and Indonesia where it was a strong seller for Mitsubishi, so for 2020, it needed to swing hard to make an impression on an already SUV-centric population of buyers.

The XPANDER boasts bold styling and a very roomy interior that’s got some unexpectedly upmarket characteristics. The 9-inch infotainment system is huge even by today’s standards and CarPlay connectivity is a huge win.

Where it counts, the XPANDER offers a
maximum cargo capacity
 of 1,630-litres with all the 2nd and 3rd row seats folded. Build quality is solid and bolstered by above average levels of refinement and comfort levels, but the real shocker here is just how well it drives.

The 1.5-litre MIVEC should prove to be a reliable workhorse but often lacks the pure thrust to cope with a fully laden cabin and boot (a common shortfall with its rivals too), but at least you’ll feel confident that you’re in control of it all behind the wheel.

Honda BR-V

Like Honda’s other offerings in the crossover/SUV category,
the BR-V
 is one of those class leaders that is easy to recommend. First launched in early 2017, it has since proven itself to be a formidable combination of practicality, price, and quality.

Again, despite the styling, you can expect it to be a total embarrassment off-road, though you’d be silly to even try it. Like its platform siblings the Jazz and City, the BR-V offers unparalleled levels of practicality thanks to Honda’s
mastery of interior packaging
 to extract the maximum usable space from seemingly compact dimensions.

Even with all seats up, there’s still a Myvi-rivalling 223-litres of boot space that expands to 539-litres in its five-seat configuration. There’s a lot more space to take advantage of with the 2nd row seats folded, but Honda hasn’t confirmed an official number.

The 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol unit should also be familiar from Honda’s smaller cars. While it isn’t exactly a powerhouse, there’s more than adequate pace to be enjoyed thanks to its CVT making the most of its 120PS and 145Nm. It ticks all the boxes, and then some.

Perodua Aruz

Two years after the BR-V entered our market, our favourite second national automaker stepped in
with their own contender
. The Aruz was much less a homegrown effort than a re-badged Toyota Rush, which is also sold here and makes for a somewhat awkward situation.

The Aruz again takes many aesthetic cues from SUVs but here, again, it’s nothing more than a shallow collection of cosmetic touches to mask what is clearly an MPV that’s a little higher off the ground than usual.

For now, we’ll play along with this ruse and classify it (half-heartedly) as an SUV. It certainly checks off all the requirements for a very practical entry point to having a 7-seater while also being the least expensive option on this list. That said, it doesn’t seem to be saddled with any glaring compromises.

Like the XPANDER, comfort and equipment levels are fair though the Mitsubishi gets the nod on refinement and is leagues ahead in terms of handling. Both of these also utilise a normally aspirated 1.5-litre petrol engine with similar outputs of around 100PS mated to a rather antiquated 4-speed automatic, so they do take quite a while to get going especially when burdened with a few extra passengers and some luggage.

Offering 213-litres of boot space with all seats up and 514-litres in its 5-seat configuration, the Aruz remains very competitive on pure practicality numbers too, and at this price, it’s very easy to forgive the Aruz’s less-than-stellar standing overall. You’re getting plenty of vehicle for your money, which cannot be echoed about the Toyota below.

Toyota Rush

With their home field advantage, any automaker better bring their A-game when competing with Perodua on value for money. As the Rush is mechanically identical, there really isn’t much that might redeem the Toyota alternative once you factor in the
nearly RM20k price gulf
.

Perodua has come a long way and there simply is no obvious difference in materials, build quality, or fit and finish to lend some edge to the Rush, but UMW Toyota has capitalised on the Aruz’s lack of more sophisticated active safety and convenience features to furnish their 7-seater with.

The range-topping Rush receives some, but not all, of the Toyota Safety Sense features
such as Pre-Collision
 which includes Autonomous Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Monitoring, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert in addition to a 360-degree all-round view monitor.

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2015 Volkswagen Beetle Bug Edition Launched In Malaysia: Only 200 Units To Be Offered, Priced From RM147k

As a homage to the iconic
Volkswagen
 Beetle, Volkswagen Malaysia is offering customers here the chance to own limited units of the Beetle Bug Edition, with only 200 units being offered.
Priced at RM146,888 (inclusive of GST but without insurance), buyers will be able to select from five colours - Graciosa Brown, Deep Black, Pure White, Saturn Yellow and Tornado Red. But what is a Beetle Bug Edition?
Essentially, it is the
Volkswagen Beetle
 1.2 TSI but decked out in unique Bug Edition modifications. These include Volkswagen Bug side sills, side decals, body stripes, and Bug logo (located beneath the rear VW emblem/boot release).
Announcing this launch, Mr Armin Keller, Managing Director, Volkswagen Malaysia said, “This Beetle Bug Edition is a way for us to engage with Beetle lovers in Malaysia and provide a fun alternative to the original Beetle.”
Interested customers will be able to register for test drives and to view this variant up-close at their nearest Volkswagen authorised dealer showroom. Bookings begin in May 2015 across all Volkswagen dealerships nationwide.


2015 Volkswagen Phaeton Updated For The Chinese Market

Volkswagen
 has officially revealed an updated version of its Phaeton for China where it is the main market for the brand’s flagship luxury sedan.
Powering the large sedan are a selection of three petrol engines: a 3.0-litre V6, 3.6-litre V6, and 4.2-litre V8. Output from each engine stands at 250PS, 280PS, and 335PS respectively, linked to a 4Motion all-wheel drive system.
On the outside, the Phaeton receives updated bi-xenon headlights at the front and new LED taillights at the back. Elsewhere, the radiator grille is chromed out with other matte pieces of trim. Also added are electric folding and heated side mirrors with integrated LED signal lights, and powered sunroof.
Inside, a rear seat entertainment system has now been added featuring two 10.2-inch screens while at the front, there is an 8-inch touchscreen display. The infotainment systems are hooked up to a Dynaudio Temptation sound system.
Not officially available in Malaysia, the 12-year old Phaeton is expected to be replaced by an all-new model in 2017.


CKD G28 2021 BMW 3 Series LWB Price Unveiled, Yours For RM277k

BMW
 has finally unveiled the price for the CKD 2021 330Li and it is also now open for booking. Yours for only RM277,164.22.

Last April, BMW Malaysia
previewed
 their first-ever locally-assembled long-wheelbase BMW 3 Series, and while the preview gave us detailed features of the car, BMW however did not unveil its final price.

Back then, BMW said that the tentative price for the stretched-out CKD 3 Series would be around the RM300k mark, and today, they have just announced that the 2021 330Li will be priced on the road without insurance with the SST exemption at RM 277,164.22
.

Hans de Visser, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia said, “We are pleased to commence booking for the latest addition to our portfolio of locally-assembled premium vehicles in Malaysia: the First-Ever BMW 330Li M Sport. Following our successful performance in the first half of 2021 globally, we believe the first-ever locally-assembled long-wheelbase BMW 3 Series model will continue to bring joy to our customers in Malaysia as it opens up an avenue for BMW customers and enthusiasts to experience Sportiness in New Dimensions.”

As a recap, Malaysia's first-ever locally assembled long-wheelbase BMW 3 Series promises to deliver....well, more space, as it has an increased overall length of 4,819mm (+110) and an increased wheelbase length of 2,961mm (+110mm) compared to the BMW 330i M Sport. It is also accompanied by an increased height of 1,441mm (+6mm) relative to the 330i.

Apart from looking like an elongated BMW 330i M Sport, the interior is where most of the differences can be felt, especially in the rear. The new dimensions are reflected in an increase of 4mm in headroom and an additional 42mm legroom available for rear passengers compared to the BMW 330i M Sport - providing unparalleled spatial comfort and luxury, says BMW Malaysia.

However, boot space remains the same as the normal variant, coming in at 480 litres, but BMW says it has an improved storage compartment package that offers more stowage possibilities.

The interior of the 2021 330Li M Sport does seem to come with a bit more class, coming with interior trim finishers in Aluminium Tetragon with highlight trim finishers in Pearl Chrome furnishing the cabin.

In the cockpit, drivers are greeted with an M leather steering wheel and M-specific pedals. An automatic anti-dazzle function is also equipped for both interior and exterior mirrors and electric seat adjustment with memory function for the driver.

Other interior highlights of the first-ever locally produced 2021 BMW 330Li M Sport are:

Velour floor mats.

Ambient lights with 11 predefined lighting designs.

Automatic air-conditioning with three-zone control.

A HiFi loudspeaker system for entertainment on the road.

Comfort Access System is also standard on the 2021 BMW 330Li M Sport.

The exterior is largely the same as the
G20 330i M Sport
, headlined by the iconic kidney grille which has black struts framed in chrome.

Other features that complete the exterior of the 2021 BMW 330Li M Sport are:

M Aerodynamics and M Sport Packages

A set of 18” M light-alloy wheels in Double-Spoke style 848 M bicolour with mixed tyres and run-flat tyres

Double-sided exhaust tailpipe finishers with a trapezoidal design in the rear

Panorama glass roof

Welcome light carpet on both sides.

Safety and convenience wise, the 2021 BMW 330Li M Sport comes comprehensively equipped with:

Cruise Control with braking function

Parking Assistant with rearview mirror, and the BMW Active Pedestrian Safety system

Lane departure warning

Lane change warning

Front collision warning

Cross-traffic warning and rear collision prevention.

The Intelligent Emergency Call functionality also ensures live assistance and support are available at all times. Owners will also now be able to have greater digital interaction with the compact limousine via the new My BMW App that provides easy access to a wide range of remote services such as on-the-go navigation, and e-mobility features.

The application will replace the BMW Connected App come July 2021, and is now available for download on both Android and iOS-enabled smartphones.

Powering the 330Li is BMW's B48 2.0-litre four-cylinder TwinPower Turbo petrol engine, which is capable of producing a maximum output of 258 hp at 5,000 – 6,500 rpm and a peak torque of 400 Nm at 1,550 – 4,400 rpm. Power is transmitted via a Steptronic Sport transmission and acceleration from 0-100 km/h is achieved in only 6.2 seconds, 0.4 seconds slower than the G20. Fuel consumption claims are marked at 6.4 litres per 100 kilometres.

Owners of the first-ever locally-assembled 2021 BMW 330Li M Sport will receive the complete BMW Group Malaysia Premium Ownership experience which includes:

BMW 5-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Scheduled Service Programm

BMW Roadside Assistance and Accident Hotline

The BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile App - BMW Privileges Card

BMW Service Online

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2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe Launched, RM 423,888

Variety is the spice of life. As part of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s relentless product offensive, they have launched the GLC Coupe, alongside the GLS and G-Class. Each of these models comes in a single variant, and in the case of the GLC Coupe it will be the GLC 250 4MATIC, with AMG Line components. In a nutshell, the GLC Coupe is to the GLC what the GLE Coupe is to the GLE, in that they are largely similar but sport wildly different rooflines.
Let’s start off with what’s the same between the GLC Coupe and the
GLC
. They both sit on the same C-Class platform, as per Mercedes-Benz’s naming scheme. They both have the 4MATIC all-wheel drive system as standard, which provides excellent stability in even the trickiest of situations. They also have the same powerplant: a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-4 with 211 hp and 350 Nm of torque from 1,200 rpm to 4,000 rpm. They share the 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission, which is proven to be fairly sharp when you want it to be, and smooth when you need it to cruise.
The similarities are in the interior as well. With the AMG Line, the GLC Coupe has slightly different seats and various trim pieces- AMG pedals, AMG floormats, and the like- which would make it identical to the regular GLC as it also comes with the AMG Line package. There is an optional Burmester sound system that goes for an extra RM 5,000 if the owner so wishes to specify it.
On the outside, this is where the differences emerge. It looks very much like a baby GLE Coupe, so you wouldn’t be totally at fault if you mistook it for one. The AMG Line also brings 20-inch alloy rims and more aggressive bumpers, although we have little to compare it against as there isn’t a non AMG model on sale.
Feature wise, the specs are identical as well. Front and side airbags, Collision Prevention Assist Plus, Crosswind Assist, Attention Assist, Active Parking Assistant, Distronic Plus active cruise-control system, Steering Assist- these are all available on both the GLC cand the GLC Coupe. For now, the only direct rival to the GLC Coupe would be the
BMW X4
, and the two are pretty evenly matched on price and specs. The GLC Coupe goes for RM 423,888- on the road with GST, but without insurance.


Elon welcomes licensing of Tesla's Full Self-Driving tech to other car manufacturers

Musk is open to licensing its Full Self-Driving (FSD) software and hardware to other car manufacturers.

During a recent earnings call for Q2 2023, Tesla's CEO Elon Musk revealed some exciting prospects for the company's Full Self-Driving (FSD) level 2 autonomous driving technology.

Contrary to popular belief, Musk stated that
Tesla is open to licensing
 its FSD software and hardware to other car manufacturers. In fact, the company is already engaged in early discussions with a major OEM about using the Tesla FSD.

The potential for licensing the FSD system opens up new opportunities for collaboration and innovation within the automotive industry. While Tesla has made its North American Charging Standard open source, the FSD system is likely to involve licensing fees. However, the added value and benefits it brings to vehicles could make it a worthwhile investment for automakers.

Elon Musk remains committed to achieving true Full Self-Driving capabilities, which could significantly increase the value of Tesla's vehicles. He believes that once FSD is approved by regulators, the car's value will skyrocket, making the current price tag of $15,000 (RM69k) seem like a bargain. The FSD technology is also available as a monthly subscription, providing flexibility to customers.

Acknowledging past criticisms and humorous remarks about FSD's development timeline, Musk expressed confidence that the technology will soon surpass human capabilities. He shared that to date, over 482 million kilometres have been driven using FSD, and as the mileage increases, FSD's performance will outperform human drivers, paving the way for ten times safer driving experiences.

Tesla plans to graduate FSD Beta from the beta stage with the next update, signifying the company's growing confidence in the technology's reliability and efficiency. Although FSD Beta has not been rolled out anywhere else, Tesla owners in North America already enjoy its advanced capabilities, including identifying stop signs, traffic lights, and autonomously driving in most scenarios with active driver supervision.

Despite Tesla's focus on autonomous driving, the company has
faced scrutiny and investigations surrounding its Autopilot technology
.

The US Department of Justice has initiated a criminal investigation into more than a dozen crashes involving Tesla's Autopilot system. Prosecutors are examining whether the company misled consumers, investors, and regulators with unsupported claims about the technology's capabilities.

While Tesla's path to autonomous driving has faced challenges and controversies, the company remains committed to pushing the boundaries of technology and safety.

As the world eagerly awaits the advancements in FSD and the potential collaborations with other automakers, Tesla's vision for the future of driving continues to shape the automotive landscape.


Naza-Brabus Introduces Startech Conversion Kit For The Range Rover Evoque

Naza-Brabus, authorised distributor of Brabus vehicles in Malaysia, has officially introduced the Startech customisation kit for the Range Rover Evoque. Startech is a sister brand of Brabus, a world renowned tuning outfit famously known for churning out mega-fast Mercedes-Benzes.
Through Startech, Brabus applies their knowledge of performance and aesthetic tuning to British brands such as Jaguar, Bentley and Range Rover. The Startech kit offered for the Evoque consists of a complete makeover of the key visual aspects of the Evoque, through a redesigned front and rear bumper, paint highlights and rally car-style rear wing.
Also seen here is the addition of the company’s 20-inch Monostar R alloy wheels – also available in 21- and 22-inch sizes. The wheel and tyre packages can be tuned in tandem with Startech sports springs which lower the car by another 35mm.
The shortlist of the Range Rover Evoque conversion kit is as follows:
Front Bumper: RM12,395
Rear Bumper: RM15,534
Rear Spoiler: RM3,846
Monostar R (20 x 8.5D) Alloy Rims: RM14,463
Body Paint: RM1,950
Continental ContiCross (245/45/20): RM5,936
Exhaust Repair: RM130
Range Rover Logos: RM236
Labour: RM2100
Total: RM56,591
Naza-Brabus also retail ECU tuning kits for the Evoque SD4 diesel variants, with tuning kits for the Si4 petrol variants in the pipeline. Parts are fully imported from Germany and installation is handled by the Brabus Performance Centre in Glenmarie, Shah Alam. All Startech accessory kits purchased officially come replete with a 3 year/100,000km warranty.


2023 Hyundai Creta launched - 1.5-litre engine, 115PS/144Nm, SmartSense safety suite, RM150k

Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) has
officially launched the Hyundai Creta
 a month after opening up the booking books for the compact SUV. The second smallest Hyundai crossover comes only in a single Creta 1.5 Plus variant, priced at RM149,888 OTR w/o insurance.

The Hyundai Creta B-segment SUV is still in its 1st-generation guise, albeit with the one introduced in Malaysia being the facelift version. The Creta is a viable alternative for those who are shopping around for
crossovers similar to the Honda HR-V
 1.5L S (non-turbo) and Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8G, as most of its features and specifications are comparable.

Targeted at the young and young-at-heart, the Hyundai Creta offers boldness and individuality, particularly via its Parametric Jewel front end. Hyundai prides itself on the Creta's front-end design with its hidden LED daytime-running lights and bumper-mounted LED projector headlamps which are said to portray a stunning visual signature at night.

Apart from its identifiable front face, as it features a lot of Hyundai's current design language, the Creta comes with 17" wheels wrapped with 215/60 R17 tyres. The Creta's side profile is quite interesting, as it characterised by a lot of unique body line cuts. The taillights on the Creta is also interesting, designed under what Hyundai calls, the Boomerang design.

Interior-wise, the 2023 Hyundai Creta comes with bits of kit like a 10.25-inch TFT LCD cluster, and eight-inch infotainment touchscreen (wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay included), as well as fabric seats.

HSDM has not skimped on its safety
 and convenience features, as the Korean crossover comes with six airbags and the latest Hyundai SmartSense safety suite, featuring:

High beam assistblind

Rear cross traffic collision

Spot collision avoidance assist

Lane keeping assist

Lane following assist

Leading vehicle departure alert

There are five exterior colours to choose from, including Galaxy Blue Pearl, Midnight Black Pearl, Titan Gray Metallic, Creamy White Pearl and Dragon Red Pearl. All colour options only comes with black fabric interior.

As for its powerplant, the Hyundai Creta in Malaysia is powered by the Smarstream G 1.5-litre NA four-cylinder engine, which produces 115PS and 144Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a Smartstream Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) and comes with selectable driving modes such as Eco, Normal, Sport and Smart.

The first 150 buyers will get a free extended warranty of 5 years/300,000 as well as 3 years/50,000 km


Proton achieves best cumulative sales since 2012, outpacing Industry growth by over 3 times

Proton achieved its best cumulative sales since 2012, with 14,351 units sold in June, bringing the total sales for the year to 77,321 units.

This represents a growth rate of 28.6% and outpaces the industry's sales growth by more than three times. Proton's market share in June was estimated at 23.2%, and the year-to-date market share increased to 21.3%, a growth of 3.2% over the previous year.

Five Proton models led their respective segments in June, including the Proton Saga, which reached its best performance since 2012, and the
Proton X90
, which became the top-selling D-segment SUV.

The Proton Persona regained its position as the leader in B-segment sedans, while the Proton X50 maintained its overall lead in the B-segment SUV market.
The Proton Exora
 remained unchallenged in the C-segment MPV market.

Proton's performance in the first half of 2023 shows strong demand for its products, and the company's strategy of offering high-quality vehicles with connectivity technology at various price points has resonated with Malaysian car buyers.

Proton is confident in its growth trajectory for the second half of the year and plans to update its product range,
enter the Malaysian EV market
, and improve production capabilities.


Proton X90 Naik Genting – Bakal Jadi Kereta Hibrid Pertama Proton?

SUV baharu
 yang bakal dikeluarkan oleh Proton,
Proton X90
 dilihat sedang giat melakukan ujian jalan raya sebagai salah satu proses pembangunannya sebelum dilancarkan.

Sebelum ini kami ada melaporkan bahawa telah tular pula satu video yang menunjukkan SUV baharu Proton yang sedang diuji di jalan awam lengkap dengan pelekat penyamaran telah terlibat dalam
kemalangan
 bersama Proton Waja.

Kali ini, seorang pengguna Facebook bernama Akid Basarom telah berkongsi beberapa foto terbaru SUV 7 tempat duduk
Geely Haoyue
 yang dikhabarkan akan dijelmakan sebagai Proton X90 sedang menguji jalan berbukit di sekitar kawasan Genting Highland. SUV tersebut lengkap dengan pelekat penyamaran seperti yang dilihat sebelum ini.

Meskipun model ini sudah kelihatan beberapa kali di atas jalan, namun masih tiada sebarang petunjuk dari Proton mengenai spesifikasi X90 yang bakal dikeluarkan kelak. Jika dibandingkan dengan kembarnya di China, Geely Haoyue ditawarkan dalam dua pilihan iaitu versi 5 tempat duduk dan 7 tempat duduk.

Walau bagaimanapun, kedua-dua pilihan tersebut hanya ditawarkan dengan satu unit rangkaian kuasa enjin, iaitu 1.8-liter empat-silinder turbo yang menghasilkan 184 PS dan tork maksima 300 Nm dan digandingkan dengan transmisi sama seperti
Proton X70
, iaitu kotak gear klac berkembar automatik DCT tujuh-kelajuan.

Namun berbeza pula dengan pasaran Filipina apabila model yang sama ini dijual dengan nama Geely Okavango. Di sana, Okavango hadir dengan enjin 1.5-liter turbo tiga-silinder yang digandingkan bersama sistem hibrid ringkas 48-volt. Kereta ini menghasilkan output keseluruhan sebanyak 190 PS dan tork maksima 300 Nm.

Bagi yang tidak tahu, Proton sebelum ini telah mempamerkan
Enjin MHEV di Galeri Inspirasi
 untuk menunjukkan pada para pembeli apa yang akan ditawarkan pada masa hadapan dan apa yang mereka boleh jangkakan dari Proton. Walaupun tiada kenyataan rasmi dari Proton, namun pameran enjin MHEV ini seakan memberi petanda positif akan model hibrid Proton tidak lama lagi.

Enjin yang dipaparkan di Galeri Inspirasi adalah enjin bagi model X70 dan X50 – 1.8L TGDi dan 1.5L TGDi, tetapi juga sebuah enjin 1.5L TGDi dengan BSG (Belt Starter Generator) yang mengukuhkan lagi kenyataan Proton akan mengeluarkan kenderaan hibrid tidak lama lagi.

BSG adalah salah satu komponen dalam menjana kuasa bagi kenderaan hibrid ringan (Mild Hybrid). Gabungan BSG dengan enjin pembakaran dalaman (ICE) akan menghasilkan Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV), yang dijana oleh bateri lithium-ion 48V, yang berfungsi sebagai penghidup motor dan bank kuasa (power bank) untuk membantu enjin.

Oleh kerana Proton X90 ini dilihat semakin kerap berada di atas jalan raya, kesimpulan boleh dibuat bahawa model ini bakal menerjah ke pasaran Malaysia tidak lama lagi dan mungkin Proton X90 ini bakal menjadi kereta hibrid pertama keluaran Proton.


The 2023 Ford Ranger Raptor duo - 2.0L twin-turbodiesel & 3.0L EcoBoost V6 - tested in Sa Pa, Vietnam

We were lucky enough to be given the opportunity to experience the Ford Ranger Raptor with both the V6 petrol and twin-turbodiesel powertrains and compare them back to back against the dramatic backdrop of Sa Pa in Vietnam, full of challenging mountainous terrain. Here’s what we came away with.

Only months have passed after the Ford Ranger Raptor with a petrol-powered, 3.0L turbocharged V6 engine
was introduced to the Malaysian market for RM259,888
, rocking the foundations with its lofty of output of 397PS and 583Nm of torque.

As a complement to that range-topper, the local launch of the 2.0L turbodiesel four-cylinder variant
 took place recently for RM248,888
. Giving Malaysians two flavours of high-riding performance pickup truck, but separated by almost RM11,000. However, though it is worth mentioning that we drove the Thai-spec versions of the Raptors, their capabilities are identical.

The 2.0L variant offers an attractive alternative for off-roading enthusiasts who seek high performance and the long-legged fuel economy of a diesel. Meanwhile, the 3.0L V6 engine provides a noticeably different feel from under that bonnet, not to mention a sweet soundtrack.

The diesel clearly doesn’t have the lungs to keep up here but, as proven in the previous-generation Raptor, has ample torque and a character that seems to eager, even relentless, in its pulling capacity - it’s on-paper specifications of 210PS and 500Nm definitely do not tell the full story. There’s also a smoothness to the V6 that is beyond the diesel’s reach, if that’s a priority to you. The 10-speed automatic in both variants continue to be a superb shifter and we strongly recommend test driving them both to make your decision.

Visually, there are minimal differences between the Ranger Raptor 2.0 Bi-Turbo diesel and its petrol counterpart
 with the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine
. Their exterior flourishes are nearly identical, the only obvious exception to this are the exhaust outlets present on the 3.0L petrol variant. Similarly, inside the vehicle, the diesel Raptor features the same interior design as the 3.0L V6 petrol version, including the distinctive orange accents.

Occupants of both enjoy a clear, vertically-oriented 12-inch touchscreen display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, hooked up to an 8-speaker Bang & Olufsen speaker system (in the Malaysian-spec). This aside, we were hard-pressed to differentiate the cabin experience as both Raptors seem to check all the boxes when it came to a balance of interior plushness with more than a tinge of sportiness, as well as a bevy of technology features.

During the test drive in Sa Pa, we encountered plenty of challenging terrain that allowed us to assess the off-road capabilities of the Ranger Raptor. The diesel Raptor has a single limited-slip differential on the rear axle, while the petrol version has both front and rear LSDs. In all honesty, we barely felt either variant lacking any traction on loose surfaces, at least insofar as the short courses provided to us by Ford.

Away from the closed off-road course sessions, driving conditions were mostly low-speed, with tight, twisty hillside roads and occasional slow drives through town. We’d love to have the 3.0L V6 version on test to really stretch its legs on a wide, empty stretch of highway but it looks like we’ll have to wait on that.

The same could be broadly said about the chassis performance, which are a very close match between that of the petrol and diesel version. The 3.0L petrol Raptor features Live Valve 2.5-inch internal bypass units from Fox, which are able to adjust damping rates much more rapidly, while the diesel version does not have this Live Valve feature. During off-road courses in Vietnam, the Live Valve-equipped petrol variant demonstrated slightly better ride quality and body control than the diesel version.

In terms of off-road capability and the utility of a rear bed, both the petrol and diesel variants of the Ranger Raptor continues to cater to buyers who desire enhanced off-road performance, particularly at higher speeds, fancying themselves hopping across the dunes like the Dakar racers that inspired it. While the diesel variant has a slightly lower payload rating, it makes up for that with its sheer endurance per tank. You’re likely to get double the range on the 2.0L versus the 3.0L before needing to refuel.

Considering the RM248,888 asking price for the diesel-powered Ranger Raptor and the RM259,888 price for the petrol version, that RM11k gulf is ultimately a small one. Therefore, the choice between the two may well depend buyer preference and its intended usage. Those who prioritise speed and a tuneful engine note should opt for the 3.0L V6 petrol, while those who frequently drive on highways but still appreciate the Ranger Raptor's capable chassis should seriously consider the 2.0L Bi-Turbo diesel, especially with slight its price advantage.

For this writer, the 3.0L V6 variant of the Ranger Raptor offers a wholly unique driving experience that cannot be matched by any other rival in the local market, essentially distilling the core appeal of the larger F-150 Raptor (which uses a 3.5-litre V6) into a more agile, manoeuvrable package that’s almost entirely as capable.

One could always argue against the logic spending north of RM200k on a pickup truck and all the connotations that might entails. Still, for the same amount of money, there are scarcely few options that blend the opposing attributes of utility and performance quite so deftly, or quite so brashly. That alone deserves to be celebrated.