A Closer Look At The Proton X50’s Infotainment and Connectivity Systems

There’s been a lot of fanfare surrounding the Proton X50 infotainment system – for one, it is capable of some functions only cars in excess of RM250k offer (if you discount its X70 sibling). So let’s take a closer look at the highlight of the X50’s snazzy new infotainment system.

There are two different infotainment units

The Standard and Executive variants are offered with an 8-inch touchscreen, whereas the
Premium
 and Flagship variants get a larger 10.25-inch screen which houses additional functions.

In both cases, these infotainment units are powered by Geely’s own ‘ECARX’ E01 Quad-Core Central Processing Unit (CPU). The E01 is the first independently developed chip from ECARX (a subsidiary of Geely) and utilises a high-speed 64-bit Quad-Core Central Processing Unit (CPU) combined with a dedicated Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) supporting HD 1080p dual-screen display and a 4G modem which provide seamless capable connectivity and content delivery within equipped vehicles.

Crucially, the new E01 CPU offers five times faster computing performance and 33 percent faster boot-up speed compared to the unit in the Proton X70.

This means that system activates at breakneck speeds, and loads user applications and Navigation maps quicker. As with smartphones, the system is also able to cycle between apps and screens much smoother.

A new operating software

The E01 is augmented with the latest GKUI 19 operating software, unlike other Android or Apple-based infotainment systems - the GKUI 19 adds greater Artificial Intelligence (AI) capabilities. The GKUI 17 connects to an AI cloud, while a ‘smart desktop’ setup utilizes the systems AI to intuitively configure itself depending on the user’s needs.

The other aspect is that the software, its applications, screen layouts and overall operation is guided by UI/UX (User Interface/User eXperience) principles that are claimed to offer an intuitive experience when using the system.

Other highlights include the standard 4G Connectivity – in the case of the Standard and Executive variants, the embedded-SIM (eSim – programmable SIM ‘card’) is directly integrated into the head unit, whereas in the Premium and Flagship variants, it is embedded into the Telematics Box (a vehicle Black Box).

This latter system allows the integration of car control functions such as operating the Climate Control, and Windows. These can be augmented using the “Hi Proton…” voice-controlled functions, such as on the X70.

The Premium and Flagship variants offer the
X50
 Proton Link app. Through the app, users can remotely start the car (for a maximum of 10 minutes; the car will shut off automatically if the driver does not get in by then), pre-set the climate control to their desired temperature settings, and even send a location/destination to their X50, which can be accessed to begin guidance, once in the car.

Separately, the X50 can also be started using the keyfob, how’s that for comprehensive equipment!

Other proprietary features include the Joox music application, which works much like Spotify, first introduced in April 2020. The Joox app, however, is best described as a work in progress, as song selections are limited compared to other more established audio streaming services.

Class-leading features

Until not too long ago (more specifically the X70), features such as this were reserved only for premium cars from BMW (Connected Drive) and Mercedes-Benz (Mercedes Me) – which you might surmise are far more pricey than what the X50 will eventually cost.

It is for this reason as well, we must expect the price variations between the separate
X50
 variants to be larger than usual, give these innovative features are not offered anywhere else in the B-Segment market.


Caring For Your Civic – We Take A Look At Some Of The Maintenance Jobs Done At Honda's Authorised Service Centres

As you might have already know, the all-new 10
th
 generation Honda Civic is equipped with a Maintenance Minder function that reminds the driver when the Civic is due for service. However, unlike similar features adopted by other models in the segment, Volkswagen models for example, the Maintenance Minder is not just a simple countdown function as it actually adjusts the service interval based on the car’s driving conditions.

Like all current Honda models, the standard recommended service interval is every six months or 10,000 km, whichever comes first. However, depending on the sort of driving conditions that the car is subjected to, some drivers might be reminded to service their Civic earlier, while others might be able to delay theirs.

To further emphasize on the improved ownership experience accorded by the all-new Civic, Honda Malaysia also took us on a short visit to Honda Sungai Buloh (AutoWorld Asia), one of their many 3S centres around the country.

To answer the question on whether the 1.5-litre VTEC Turbo engine in the all-new Civic requires any new or engine-specific maintenance measures, the short answer is no.

The turbochargers and its related ancillary components are maintenance-free and since Honda has adopted the highest SN grade lubricant (formulated by Idemitsu, 0W-20 for fully synthetic oil) for all its engines, the Civic does not need a different lubricant.

We also noted several measures taken by Honda that are unlikely to be carried out at your typical independent workshop at your neighborhood.

1. Replacing the drain plug sealing washer

Many independent workshops that offer lube change services often just change the oil filter and drain plug, and ignore this tiny little sealing washer part.

Without the washer’s soft aluminum material acting as a buffer between the drain plug and the oil sump, tightening the drain plug will overtime, damage the threads that are holding the drain plug in, leading to oil leaks. As any mechanically savvy person will tell you, there is no simple fix to damaged threads.

As the washer’s material is intentionally made to be more malleable to absorb the force from the tightened drain plug, it needs to be replaced at every oil change.

2. Using a torque wrench

On the same topic of avoiding damaged threads from overtightened nuts and bolts, Honda’s authorized service centres do not use air guns to tighten any nut or bolt. A torque wrench is used instead.

3. Tyre tread depth inspection

When rotating the tyres, Honda technicians don’t just do a visual inspection of the tyres, which is acceptable if you are doing your own DIY work on the car, but since this is a service centre, a proper tread depth inspection tool must be used.

4. Brake pad thickness inspection

As part of the tyre rotation process, the brake pads will be removed to have their thickness inspected, not just visually, but with an inspection tool.

If the thickness is within marginally tolerable limits or less, the service advisor will recommend to the owner to replace the pads.

5. Maintaining the air filter

The Civic’s paper-type engine intake air filter cannot be washed or cleaned in anyway. They are to be replaced as per recommended in the service plan.

Blowing compressed air into it, like how many workshops usually do, might damage or clog up the filter even further, even if the compressed air is blown in the direction of the intake flow. The correct way to maintain it is to remove the filter from the air box, take it away from the engine area, hold it flat and knock the sides of the filter with your palm to dislodge any large or heavy particles.

Unless the filter is unusually dirty (if the car is driven in dusty conditions a lot), the filter is to be replaced according to the recommended owner’s manual or when indicated in the Service Minder).

6. Battery health check

Before the service is completed, a battery health check is done using a battery analyzer tool, which will then give a print out of the reading.

While this is just precautionary move, it doesn’t mean that the car will be immune from a flat battery between now until its next service six months later, especially if the vehicle is driven mostly in stop-go traffic.

Owners are reminded to keep a set of jumper cables in their cars, and refer to the owners manual on the correct response procedures, and to keep the roadside assistance telephone number (1800 18 1177 for owners using the Honda Insurance Package).

On a related note, owners should also read the owner’s manual on the correct procedures to unlock and start the engine if the Smart Entry key’s battery is low.

Some Honda 3S centres, like this particular outlet that we visited in Sungai Buloh, even offers complimentary shuttle rides while you wait for your car to be serviced.

So how much do all these cost? You can refer to
here
 for the maintenance cost of the Civic 1.5 VTEC Turbo.


MITI: Third National Car Will Not Be Like Proton

The Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) has assured that the third national car project, which Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad shockingly conveyed his interest back in June, will not be like Proton, according to MITI Deputy Minister Dr Ong Kian Ming.
In a report by
The Sun Daily
, Dr Ong said Tun Dr Mahathir’s concept of the
third national car project
 is not about going back to Proton, but for energy efficient vehicles (EEV) and propelling the automotive industry into something more sustainable and green.
Image from Bernama
Dr Ong said the National Automotive Policy (NAP), which his ministry is confident will be finalized by the end of the year, needs to look at new mobility pathways, trends in driving patterns, and be adjusted with the improvement in public transportation and vendor development in the ecosystem.
He added that he hoped members of the public do not think that Tun Dr Mahathir’s intention is to revive Proton as Proton 2.0.
“Tun Dr Mahathir has spoken about the possibility of having an ASEAN car with cooperation with Indonesia, so there is an opportunity to explore with other players, but looking at the angle of how NAP is going at an international level, moving towards electric cars and EEV, and the value chain that comes along it, which includes electronics, artificial intelligence, internet of things – that would be part and parcel of the ecosystem,” concluded Dr Ong.
Meanwhile, Nurul Izzah, head of the Ministry of Education’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programme, has also voiced her concern on the mooted third national car programme.
Image from Nurul Izzah official Facebook page
In a press statement today, YB Nurul Izzah, who is also Member of Parliament for Permatang Pauh, said the country must quickly make a shift from manufacturing-based economy to a knowledge-based economy on product development, engineering, technology, and intellectual property.
She argued that despite the Chinese-ownership, Proton’s presence in the nation is a boon to local human capital and parts suppliers and vendors.
“Isn’t ensuring that our engineers and designers can benefit from Proton despite its foreign ownership an important part of the national automotive policy?”
“What about Perodua? Sales report show that
Perodua has exceeded 40
percent
 of the market share on a monthly basis. What is the impact of Perodua’s success on the human capital development and Malaysian intellectual properties involved with the company?” questioned Nurul Izzah.
“Isn’t Perodua’s cooperation with global automotive giant Toyota (through ownership of Daihatsu) enough to achieve the original goal of the national automotive project?”
The Perodua Bezza and Perodua Myvi are vehicles exclusively developed by talented Malaysians at Perodua and local vendors for the Malaysian market.
“Maybe it’s time for Perodua to be independent and try to develop a modern vehicle capable of competing without foreign business partners?” she asked.
While we do not have quick answers to these questions, MITI and Malaysia Automotive Institute (MAI) reported some figures pertaining to the improvement of human capital in the automotive industry since the implementation of NAP2014.
Since the announcement of the policy four years ago, 27,125 new jobs were created as of December 2017, which marks nearly a five percent increase compared to 2016. MAI also indicated that 23,444 foreign workers were replaced. A target of 29,641 new jobs have been set for 2018.
MITI also commented that the growth of the automotive industry has created new career opportunities for Malaysians.
Image of the interior of MAIRC from MAI website
Certified human capital programmes have been developed by MAI since 2014, not only to allow faster penetration of skills into the industry, but also to address the pertinent issue of foreign worker replacement among industry players.
MAI also has its resource centre, the MAIRC, located in Bukit Beruntung, Selangor. The MAIRC training centre, completed in 2017, houses industrial grade equipment including a hybrid vehicle trainer, tooling, and assembly jigs that cater to industrial based learning for semi-skilled workers, technicians and engineers.


China's Great Wall Motors Overseas Sales Reaches 1 Million Units

China's
Great Wall Motors (GWM)
 announced that its cumulative overseas sales have officially reached one million units.

This is indeed a great milestone for the brand's overall global presence where the news was officially unveiled at the Tank brand launching event in Saudi Arabia.

The one-millionth unit on show was the
GWM Tank
 300, a tough-looking SUV that has already penetrated many markets (the nearest to us would be Thailand). The first half of 2022 alone recorded a total of 518,525 new vehicles sold, where 12% were from overseas.

*Image credit: PRNewswire

The South African markets are also seeing a positive increase thanks to models like the
Haval H6
 which accounted for 15% of the market share in the first two months of 2022. GWM's strategy in getting a piece of that global sales pie seems to be working like a charm, eh?

Even in Malaysia, people are hot on the heels of some of GWM's offerings that'll be officially launched here soon like the
Ora Good Cat EV
,
GWM Tank
, and the monstrous pickup truck that has already arrived, the
GWM Poer
.

Through localised manufacturing and assembly phases as well as GWM's marketing strategies, it didn't come as a surprise when they achieved an increase in overseas sales by 103.7% in 2021 alone (total overseas sales in 2021 were 142,793 units).

What's next for GWM? How about the attempt to achieve a global annual sales of four million units by 2025? Sounds achievable as around 80% of its new offerings will be 'intelligent new energy' products.


First 2023 Geely Boyue L Rolls Off Production Line - GG Other SUVs

If you thought the current-gen Proton X70 is an impressive piece of C-segment SUV, its likely replacement is set to blow you away. The Boyue L (also called the Atlas in overseas markets), as we’ve previously reported, is the Chinese automaker’s
answer to the CR-V

and RAV4
 on a global scale.

Even better, the first units are already rolling off the production floor. Though it looks like it could still belong in ‘concept car’ limbo,
the Boyue L is finished and real
.

Geely Boyue L - Bye-bye Honda CR-V?

In all transparency, that L suffix could prove significant as that might mean that the Proton-ised version we see locally will be different in some way. Here, it signifies a longer wheelbase (107mm more than the X70’s) as well as denoting its more upmarket positioning.

Still, a shorter wheelbase and less premium counterpart to the Boyue L should be pretty impressive nonetheless, especially given how much of a striking impression its exterior and interior alike make at first glance.

It’s based on the shared Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) platform which is also in use by Volvo
and Lynk & Co
, among others.

Geely Boyue L - based on the CMA platform

We’ve already spent some time looking over the finer details of that exterior, but even in this final production version there’s something very Cadilllac-like about that front end and there are quite a few cues from
last year’s Vision Starburst
.

Even the Hyundai Elantra and Tucson are jealous of how angular Geely went with those body lines and creases. The same goes for the wheels too, which were specifically designed to match.

Step inside the futuristic aesthetic is further amplified by a minimal dashboard adorned with ambient light elements and two-tone trim treatment. At centre stage sits the 13.2-inch vertical touchscreen infotainment screen running the proprietary Geely Galaxy Air operating system and powered by an 8-core Snapdragon SA8155P system-on-a-chip by Qualcomm.

Ahead of the driver, we find a supplementary 10.25-inch display used as a digital instrument cluster and in some variants, there’s an optional 25.6-inch projection screen and 11-speaker Harman Infinity audio system.

Geely Boyue L powertrain

In terms of powertrain, the range starts with
a 1.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder
 producing 181hp and 290Nm, which should be familiar to Malaysians, driving the front wheels, or a 2.0-litre turbo with 218hp and 325Nm. However, later into its production run, multiple petrol-electric hybrids supplied by Leishen Power will also be offered alongside the all-wheel drive.

Geely has not yet disclosed export or overseas market plans for the larger SUV, but it’s not hard to see how easily the Boyue L could start to steal customers away from established brands in Europe and possibly even North America, should they venture west enough.


Geneva 2019: Volkswagen To Bring Electric Dune Buggy

It's not uncommon for a brand to embrace car culture in this day and age, with enthusiasts and clubs being champions of the brand and the key to a loyal following. Perhaps the latest welcoming to the fold is that of the dune buggy - small beach-going vehicles that were built off the classic Volkswagen Beetle platform in California back in the 1960s - and Volkswagen is paying homage to these cute machines by bringing one of their own to the upcoming 2019 International Geneva Motor Show.
For now all we get are teasers, but what's confirmed is that this concept will be sitting on the MEB platform - or Modular Electric Drive Matrix platform for those unfamiliar - which is specifically meant for electric vehicles in the Volkswagen range. Yes, this dune buggy will come electric power which is also perfect for Californians who seem to be obsessed with saving the planet, so much so that they have intense restrictions on how you can modify your car.
But we digress. This electric dune buggy concept is being put out there to show the world how flexible this platform is, as well as the abilities of Volkswagen designers when they are allowed to live a little and be more liberal with their lines. They call it modern and non-retro, although perhaps that's exactly what people would like to see. Globally, the original Meyers-Manx dune buggy was sold over close to three decades numbering around 250,000 units.


2021 Vios Open For Booking - 3 Variants, 5 Colours, From Est RM 75,701

Much like its sister car, the new Yaris, we're also getting to see bookings open for the
2020 Toyota Vios
 just before the end of the year.

If the new Yaris seems a little small for you, it's a good thing then that UMW Toyota also decided to open up bookings for the new
Vios
. It's a name that the Malaysian market is more familiar with given its long history and various steps in evolution, and once again this model change makes for a solid proposition in its segment.

Pricing starts an an estimated RM 75,701 for the entry-level Vios 1.5J, going up to RM 85,674 for the mid-range Vios 1.5E, and topping out at RM 89,232 for the Vios 1.5G. Colour choices are Silver Metallic and Platinum White as the more Malaysian-friendly choices, while Dark Blue, Red Mica, and Orange Metallic are the vibrant paint picks you should really be going for. A five-year warranty comes as standard.

Much like the new Yaris, beyond the aesthetic changes this model change doesn't bring a huge amount more to the
Vios
. Wireless Charging and a Vehicle Telematics System are nice to have, though expect them to be limited to the top-of-the-range model. The head unit will be Apple CarPlay ready with Android Auto connectivity in the future.

Other convenience items such as the 3D Panoramic View Monitor, Blind Sport Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Front Digital Video Recorder are present. The safety side of things is handled by Toyota Safety Sense, adding Pre-collision System and Lane Departure Alert. The Optitron Meter makes a return as well, alongside automatic air conditioning, paddle shifters, and LED headlamps.

Also like the Yaris, the Vios gets a 9 year financing plan courtesy of Toyota EZ Beli. Starting at just RM 538 with an additional RM 59 top up a month for the Toyota Service Savers Package, your installments rise slightly in the second three years with the option for a trade-in in the final three years of tenure.


Fuel Price Update: 15th – 21st February – Prices Down!

The Ministry of Domestic Trade, Cooperatives, and Consumerism (KPDNKK) has announced new petrol and diesel prices for the week of 15
th
 to 21
st
 February and are as follow:
RON95 –
RM2.23
 per litre (down 10 sen from RM2.33)
RON97 –
RM2.50
 per litre (down 11 sen from RM2.61)
Diesel –
RM2.19
 per litre (down 12 sen from RM2.31)


2017 Mercedes-Benz E350e PHEV Makes Malaysian Debut – 286 PS, 550 Nm, From RM393k

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia officially introduced the newest member of the E-Class range – the E350e plug-in hybrid at the company’s plant in Pekan, Pahang.
Assembled where it was unveiled, the E350e is offered in three trim levels – E350e Exclusive, E350 AMG Line, and the limited Edition 60 model, priced as mentioned below:
E350e Exclusive – RM392,888
E350e AMG Line – RM395,888
E350e Edition 60 – RM408,888
*Prices indicated are OTR without insurance
All three models are powered by the same powertrain package - the M274 turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and an electric motor which produce a total of 286 PS and 550 Nm of maximum torque. Paired to the engine and the electric motor is the 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic gearbox.
Capable of accelerating from standstill to 100 kmh in 6.2 seconds, the E350e can travel a maximum of 33 km and clock a top speed of 130 kmh in full electric mode.
Standard features across the line include:
6.2 kWh lithium-ion battery
3 power modes (Hybrid, Electric, Charge)
3 driving modes (Eco, Sport, Sport +)
Air Body Control
Pre-Entry Climate Control
Multibeam LED headlights
Three-zone climate control
Keyless-Go system
Powered front seats with 4-way lumbar support
Active Parking Assist
360-degree camera
Panoramic sunroof
64-colour ambient lighting
Powered bootlid
COMAND Online infotainment system
12.3-inch display
 Wireless charging
 13-speaker Burmeister audio system
While the E350e Exclusive gets:
19-inch ten-spoke alloy wheels
Brown Nappa leather upholstery
Wooden interior trim
The sportier E350e AMG Line’s list of features includes:
Sporty looking front and rear bumpers
Blacked out front grille
19-inch split five-spoke alloy wheels
Unique side-skirting
Sports steering wheel
Metal weave interior trim with Piano Black finishing
Last but not the least, the E350e Edition 60 (limited to only 60 units) which was designed exclusively for the Malaysian market in conjunction with the nation’s 60th year since independence, gets some pretty cool features like:
19-inch six-spoke alloy wheels
Macchiato Beige and Saddle Brown Designo Nappa leather upholstery
Nappa leather wrapped dashboard
Designo Piano Black Trim
‘Edition 60’ pewter plaque by Royal Selangor
Special exterior badging
Gloss white key fob (First and only model in Malaysia to get it)
All models come with a four-year, unlimited-mileage warranty, and in case you’re wondering how much they would cost on a monthly basis, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia announced that its Agility Financing rates for the E350e stand at RM3,928 for the Exclusive variant, RM3,958 per month for the AMG Line and RM4,088 per month for the Edition 60 over a three-year period.
In line with the increasing number of PHEVs in its portfolio, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia also announced that it will be launching Mercedes-Benz Exclusive charging stations at prominent locations such as shopping malls in the near future to make charging more convenient for its customers.
On another note, our review on the E350e is coming your way very soon as we managed to give the car a go recently. So, watch this space to see what we think of the car.


Cars That Are Tax Exempted- Should You Be Buying Them?

We list down all the cars that are CKD and qualify for the 100 per cent Sales Tax exemption.

Just before we embarked on the long weekend last Friday, at 3 PM, the Prime Minister of Malaysia announced amongst many other things that starting from the 15th of June 2020, CKD cars will be exempted from sales tax.

Specifically for new CKD (locally assembled) cars, the 100 per cent sales tax exemption for these vehicles will be in force till the end of 2020. For CBU (fully imported) cars, it is not all bad news, because a 50 per cent sales tax discount will be knocked off.

Saying that however, CKD cars still have taxes like excise and import duties. Sales tax is only 10 per cent of the total tax bill, though the calculation is not as straightforward as you imagine it to be. In fact you should see a reduction of between 6 to 7 per cent of the total price but this will be confirmed by the manufacturers themselves in due time.

Something is still better than nothing, so here are the cars that are eligible for the exemption if you wish to take advantage of the special clause set by the government.

All local cars from Proton and Perodua will also be eligible for this tax exemption.

The question that remains then is should you be purchasing a car and taking advantage of this tax break? If you were planning to purchase a car anyway before this pandemic hit us, you now may have more options to consider with this sales tax exemption in place. Car manufacturers will be revealing their updated CKD and CBU prices very soon, we'll keep you appraised when they do.


2017 Lotus 3-Eleven In Malaysia – 2 Units Only, Both Sold Out

Lotus’ quickest ever production car, the limited-run Lotus 3-Eleven, is officially launched in Malaysia, although there isn’t a need to reach for your chequebook at the moment. Only two units are allocated to our market from its first production batch and both vehicles have already found homes with enthusiasts of the brand.
Two variations of the Lotus 3-Eleven are available – Road and Race, priced at RM640,855 and RM868,214 respectively. Exclusive to Malaysia, the two cars destined for our market are of build numbers 001 and 007, both of them Road spec vehicles. The Race version spec is configured exclusively for track use and cannot be registered for public roads.
A bespoke chassis built on extruded and bonded aluminium sections underpins the 3-Eleven. It features all-round double wishbones with front anti-roll bar and Eibach springs with adjustable Ohlins dampers.
Lightweight forged aluminium wheels are standard in the 3-Eleven – measuring 18 inches up front and 19 inches at the back with either Michelin Pilot Super Sport or Michelin Cup 2 tyres fitted for Road or Race versions respectively. Both versions get AP Racing four-pot brakes callipers with slotted discs – the Race model gets uprated pads.
Powering the 3-Eleven is the proven 3.5-litre supercharged V6 petrol engine shared with the Lotus Evora 400. Sourced from Toyota but tuned with a Lotus-exclusive setup, the 2GR engine pushes out 410hp and 410Nm in Road spec; in Race spec, the numbers rise to 460hp and 525Nm. Both versions get 6-speed transmissions – a traditional H-gate manual with Torsen rear diff in the Road version and a sequential gearbox with paddle shifters in the Race model.
Both Road and Race versions of the 3-Eleven thoroughly embrace Lotus’ principle of achieving speed and balance through minimized weight, tipping the scales at 925 and 890 kg respectively, enabling it to match supercars for power-to-weight. The Road version has a top speed of 280km/h and is able to do 0-100km/h in 3.4 seconds; the Race version ups these figures to 290km/h and 3.0 seconds respectively.
Hand-built at Lotus Cars’ plant in Hethel, UK, the 3-Eleven is limited to a global production run of just 311 vehicles per year.


Honda Unveils Civic Si Prototype – Another Civic We’re Not Going to Get

Honda has taken the wraps off yet another exciting model that is not going to come anywhere near us – the new Civic Si Prototype.
On display at the ongoing Los Angeles Auto Show, the prototype is basically an indication at the design and performance direction for the 2017 Civic Si Coupe and Si Sedan, both launching next year in the US.
Covered in the shimmering Rallye Red Pearl, the Civic Si Prototype features a full Honda Factory Performance (HFP) aero kit, including front and rear splitters and rear spoiler, plus a center-mounted polygonal exhaust finisher and 19-inch 235/35Y high-performance tires mounted on HFP 19 x 8J 10-spoke forged aluminum alloy wheels.
Powering the car is a high-performance, high-torque 1.5-litre, directed-injected and turbocharged DOHC in-line 4-cylinder engine with dual variable cam timing (dual VTC) mated to a short-shifting 6-speed manual transmission.
Honda has not disclosed the output figures just yet, but since the 2.0-litre Type R kicks out more than 300hp, we can expect the 1.5 to produce somewhere between 150 to 200 hp.
However, Honda did mention that the 2017 Civic Si Coupe and Si Sedan will feature additional performance upgrades such as a new active damper system, active steering system, limited-slip differential and available high-performance tires.
Inside, the prototype closely previews the production model and features Si-exclusive front sport seats with red stitching, including stitched Si logos.  The red sport stitching carries through to the doors, steering wheel and leather shift boot with aluminum shift knob. The Si Prototype interior also features a red driver’s TFT meter and audio system illumination, aluminum sport pedals and Dry Metal Carbon instrument panel trim.
All set to be launched next year, the Civic Si Prototype will be on display at the 2016 Los Angeles International Auto Show where it will be joined by its Civic Sedan, Coupe and Hatchback siblings, plus the radical Civic Type-R Prototype, providing the first public opportunity to see all five Civic variants.


Nissan Almera Black Series- Tomei Aero Parts And More From RM 69,800

The Tomei Aero Parts package and Black Series package have proven to be quite popular with Nissan buyers since it was introduced last year. The
X-Trail
 SUV introduced the Tomei name to us last year, while the
Navara debuted the Black Series package
.
Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM), the official distributor of Nissan vehicles in Malaysia, has just unveiled the Black Series package for the popular Nissan Almera sedan.
The new Nissan Almera Black Series adds the following exterior items:
Tomei-designed aero parts (front and rear bumper spoilers, and side skirts)
Gloss black treatment on the front grille, side mirrors, trunk spoiler, and 15-inch alloy wheels
Solar Gard window tinting film
On the inside, the Black Series package includes tastefully designed black and grey combination leather seats. The infotainment system has been heavily updated to a Clarion Advance Display Audio system with a touchscreen in 6.75-inch size together with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
A driving video recorder (DVR) completes the package, which is available in both the E variant and VL variant. Titanium Olive has also been added to the Almera colour palette.
The new Nissan Almera Black Series comes standard with a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty, whereas the accessories come with a 3-year or 100,000-kilometre warranty coverage.
There is no price increase with the fitment of the Black Series package. The 1.5 E Automatic Black Series will retail from RM69,800 while the 1.5 VL Black Series will retail from RM 79,800.
ETCM is also providing additional rebates to celebrate their year-end promotions. RM 4,000 is allocated for the E variant, while the VL variant gets up to RM 7,000 in rebates. A further RM 1,000 can be saved via the ‘trade-in two-years warranty saving’ scheme.
Existing Nissan Almera owners who are interested in installing the new Tomei Aero Parts can contact 03-4047 8786 or drop an email to tomei@tanchonggroup.com.
To recap, the Nissan Almera is powered by a 1.5-litre engine that outputs 102 PS and 139 Nm of torque. Transmission for the Black Series is limited to a 4-speed automatic.
The VL variant gains Intelligent Key access with push start button ignition, Finevision meters, automatic air conditioning system, front passenger’s airbag, and painted interior trim pieces.


2021 Geely Emgrand vs 2021 Honda City Sedan vs 2021 Toyota Vios vs 2021 Nissan Almera Turbo vs 2022 Proton Persona

The sub-RM100k B-Segment sedan market is full of choices, but can the supposedly incoming
Geely Emgrand
 a.k.a next-generation Proton Persona challenge the current crop?

The B-Segment is a popular car segment in Malaysia. With various sizes and shapes offered, they tick the box of first or even family vehicle for many Malaysians - from young and fresh graduates to small families or even those looking for a secondary car.

The most prefered B-Segment car is the sedan body shape. They are loved because they present great value, especially when they deliver space, comfort, reliability and a most of all fuss-free ownership experience.

With more and more of them transforming from simple machines into cars with plush and premium interiors, a good amount of safety kit, and advanced drivetrains, it's no surprise that Malaysians continue to buy these models in large numbers.

But what cars are available for those seeking a sub-RM100k B-Segment sedan? Well, in this article, we explore the usual suspects such as the Nissan Almera Turbo, Honda City Sedan, Toyota Vios and Proton Persona but add the
2021 Geely Emgrand
 into the mix.

The recently launched Emgrand is a vehicle that is touted to be the next generation
Proton Persona
. So naturally, we just had to put it up against the crowd favourites from Japan. Does it have a chance though? Let's find out!

For the sake of comparing the best possible versions of the model, we will only include the highest spec available from each manufacturer, but for the Honda City, we have decided to go for the 1.5L V, as it is the highest spec City without a hybrid drivetrain, which should make this comparison a level playing field.

Sub-RM100k B-Segment Sedans

Index

Geely Emgrand

Honda City 1.5L V

Toyota Vios 1.5G AT

Nissan Almera 1.0L Turbo VLT

Proton Persona 1.6L Premium CVT

Launched/Last Updated

Malaysia ETA 2023?

2020 (New Model)

2020 (Facelift)

2020 (New Model)

2022 (Facelift)

MSRP

RM70k?

RM87k

RM88k

RM91k

RM56k

Engine

1.5-litre NA

1.5-litre NA

1.5-litre NA

1.0-litre Turbo

1.6-litre NA

Transmission

CVT

CVT

CVT

CVT

CVT

Drivetrain

FWD

FWD

FWD

FWD

FWD

Fuel Economy

(claimed)

6.1L/100km

5.4L/100km

5.8L/100km

5.4L/100km

6.4L/100km

Horsepower (hp/rpm)

107/6,000

119/6,600

106/6,000

99/5,000

108/5,750

Torque (Nm/rpm)

140/4,400

145/4,300

140/4,200

152/2k-4k

150/4,000

Wheels

16'

16'

16'

16'

16'

Dimensions

(L/W/H (mm))

4632 x 1789 x 1470

4553 x 1748 x 1467

4420 x 1730 x 1425

4495 x 1740 x 1460

4366 x 1722 x 1564

Boot (litres)

680

519

506

482

510

Airbags

6

6

7

6

6

Safety

Passive+Active

Passive+Active+Honda Lane Watch

Passive+Active+Pre-collision warning, Lane Departure Alert, Blind Spot Monitor with Cross Traffic Alert

Passive+Active+Intelligent Forward Collision Warning with emergency braking, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert

Passive+Active

As you can see from the table, they are all pretty closely matched but there are some areas where certain cars excel more than others.

For engine performance, even though the Nissan Almera Turbo has the
least amount
 of horsepower, it has a higher amount of torque, which also kicks in earlier than the rest. This should translate into a better amount of useable torque, as its peak torque can be utilised from 2,000 rpm - 4,000 rpm, unlike the rest which kicks in around 4,000 rpm.

For
fuel consumption
, the Nissan Almera Turbo and
Honda City
 are tied in first place, with the Toyota Vios not far behind. The Geely Emgrand and the Proton Persona both breach the 6L/100km barrier, which is disappointing especially for the Emgrand as it is a newer car than the Proton Persona.

When it comes to interior space, the borderline C-segment Emgrand should provide the most space as it is the biggest car out of the lot. Even its boot space is considerably more expansive than the rest. However, it's particularly impressive that the
Proton Persona
 which is the smallest car in the pack dimensions wise provides the biggest boot space. We can't discount the Honda City either when it comes to interior space, as Honda has a knack for making tight spots look and feel more spacious than they really are.

When it
comes to safety
, all the cars come with the usual active safety features such as traction control and anti-lock brake system but if you're looking for a car that provides the most in terms of safety features, there's no denying that the
Nissan Almera Turbo
 with its long list of active safety features will be the car for you. Despite this and considering that it is cheaper in price, we think the Toyota Vios with its seven airbags and a host of active safety features strikes the best balance of safety kit and value for money.

To say one car is better than the other is difficult, as it depends on what you look for in a car. Despite the Proton Persona not having more than one stand out feature it is the most affordable car in the pack, which will be useful to those who have smaller budgets.

For those who have a bit more money to spend, the Nissan Almera Turbo will most likely be the number one choice, but for those who are looking for a middle ground where the car is capable of providing a good
balance of features and value
, then the Honda City and Vios is probably the go-to vehicle.

While the Emgrand is a bit disappointing in other departments, it does have the biggest footprint, which should translate into a roomier interior. If interior space is your priority, then perhaps the Geely Emgrand is car for you.

But who knows when the Emgrand will arrive on Malaysian shores, perhaps by then, Proton would have
figured out
 how to cram many more features into the car, making it a more desirable prospect.

If none of the above satisfies you, there's always the fantastic
Mazda 2 sedan
, but that's a car over the RM100k price ceiling that we've used for the purposes of this comparison.


Tips Membeli kereta baru menjelang Aidilfitri

Membeli kenderaan, baik yang baru mahupun kenderaan terpakai, memerlukan kaji selidik yang mendalam. Kesilapan utama yang sering dilakukan adalah dengan meletakkan kehendak individu sebagai petimbangan ketika ingin membuat keputusan dan tidak disandarkan kepada keperluan penggunaan yang sebenar.
Mengapa perkara seperti ini perlu dielakkan? Ini adalah kerana komitmen pemilikan kenderaan akan kekal bersama anda untuk satu tempoh yang lama; iaitu sepanjang anda memilikinya. Ia banyak melibatkan kos-kos lain selain daripada sekadar perbelanjaan pertama untuk memilikinya sahaja. Kos bahan api, tol, penyelenggaraan, kerosakkan lain (yang mungkin berlaku), ansuran bulanan dan sebagainya akan menjadi beban kewangan sekiranya anda tidak membuat pertimbangan yang betul sejak dari peringkat awal lagi.
Soalan penting yang perlu dijawab terlebih dahulu; adakah anda memerlukan kenderaan baru? Misalnya di atas faktor-faktor seperti ahli keluarga semakin bertambah, kenderaan sedia ada sudah benar-benar uzur dan tidak lagi selamat dipandu dan sebagainya. Jika alasannya memang benar-benar kukuh dan berada di dalam kemampuan kewangan anda, maka tempoh menjelang musim perayaan Aidilfitri tidak dinafikan menjadi antara masa terbaik untuk membeli kenderaan.
Hampir semua pengeluar akan memberikan
pelbagai jenis promosi
 dalam tempoh berkenaan. Kebanyakannya kelihatan sangat menarik dan sukar untuk dilepaskan peluang yang ada. Potongan harga, rebat tunai, pakej servis percuma, hadiah cenderahati dan pelbagai lagi pakej menarik yang jarang-jarang diberikan di masa lain akan ditawarkan.
Bagaimana untuk mengetahui promosi-promosi yang sedang ditawarkan? Berbalik kepada perkara terawal yang disentuh di atas, kaji selidik dari awal adalah sangat penting. Anda perlu menjadi pengguna bijak yang tidak hanya menurut kata hati. Sebelum berkunjung ke  mana-mana bilik pameran, layari terlebih dahulu laman web pengeluar-pengeluar kenderaan yang berada di dalam senarai pendek anda.
Tetapkan belanjawan mengikut kemampuan sendiri terlebih dahulu; termasuk bayaran pendahuluan dan ansuran bulanan. Kemudian, dari laman-laman web jenama kenderaan yang menepati keperluan anda ini, selidiki pula tawaran semasa yang diberikan. Buat pilihan berdasarkan kemampuan kewangan adalah jauh lebih penting daripada mengambil keputusan berdasarkan keinginan dan ego semata-mata.
Sebagai petunjuk ringkas untuk mengetahui setakat mana kemampuan kewangan anda dalam konteks untuk pemilikan kenderaan, cuba darab pendapatan bulanan anda dengan 12 bulan (pendapatan tahunan). Adakah harga kenderaan yang anda inginkan itu sama atau berada di bawah jumlah berkenaan? Jika ya, ini bermaksud kereta berkenaan berada dalam julat kemampuan kewangan anda dan begitu juga sebaliknya.
Elakkan juga untuk mengambil pinjaman dengan tempoh bayaran ansuran yang panjang. Jika boleh, hadkan kepada bayaran balik yang perlu dilangsaikan dalam tempoh lima tahun. Jika anda berasa ia akan menjadi beban, maka itu petunjuk bahawa ia bukanlah kenderaan yang sesuai dengan kemampuan kewangan anda.
Ingin membeli kereta baru? Carilah di
Carlist.my


MAI: Third National Car Is Beneficial For Malaysia

The Malaysia Automotive Institute (MAI) has said that the need for the third national car project mooted by Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir, is in line with the rapid development of the Malaysian automotive industry.
"Technologies related to information technology and electronics will develop rapidly to prepare for such vehicles. This is one of the branches of research and development (R&D) that can be developed if we have the (third) national car," said MAI’s Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Madani Sahari.
 He added that the third national car project can fulfil the market needs to complete the automotive industry under the connected mobility concept.
He also said, "That is only a perception. The desire to develop the third national car project is not solely to gain fame but it will spur economic spillovers in terms of engineering as well as services.”
Additionally, Madani also mentioned that the automotive industry is big enough for the third national car to play a role.


BMW Malaysia Launches 2022 M5 And M5 Competition - from 999k

In conjunction with the 50th anniversary of BMW M, the premium automaker has launched five
high-performance models to the local BMW M portfolio, including the 2022 facelift M5 and M5 Competition.

Exterior of 2022 M5

Currently, in their sixth generation, the BMW M5 and the M5 Competition feature a newly redesigned kidney grille, furnished with M-specific double bars and an M badge. In conjunction with the 50th Anniversary of BMW M, the New BMW M5 and BMW M5 Competition will also arrive with the BMW M 50 Years emblem as standard.

Both variants feature a host of new M-specific exterior equipment, including M rear spoilers as well as new three-dimensional LED taillights. Exclusive to the New BMW M5 Competition is the M Sports exhaust system and an exclusive M5 competition badge.

Interior 2022 BMW M5

Inside, the New BMW M5 and BMW M5 Competition feature a larger 12.3-inch Control Display with touchscreen functionality, providing greater readability of functions from the driving dynamics systems and the BMW M xDrive's offering. Also new is the two-button operating concept in the centre console, which was also seen in the BMW M8 Gran Coupé.

Performance BMW M5

Powering the new BMW M5 and BMW M5 Competition is the 4.4‑litre V8 engine with
BMW M TwinPower Turbo technology
, tuned to a maximum output of 600 hp and a peak torque of 750 Nm for the New BMW M5, and 625 hp with a peak torque of 750 Nm for the New BMW M5 Competition.

This allows the M5 to achieve the century sprint in just 3.4 seconds, while the M5 Competition reaches the mark a second quicker, in just 3.3 seconds. Both variants are paired as standard with an eight‑speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, Adaptive Suspension, as well as the M xDrive all-wheel-drive - which also includes a 2WD setting for pure rear-wheel drive.

The top speed for the New BMW M5 is capped at 250 km/h, while the New BMW M5 Competition impresses with an enhanced top speed of 305 km/h with the standard inclusion of the M Drivers Package.

The New BMW M5 Competition will exclusively feature shock absorbers from the BMW M8 Gran Coupé and a retuned chassis, offering greater driveability and handling while retaining comfort levels. Sitting seven millimetres lower than the New BMW M5 and incorporating other well-conceived tweaks to the suspension and springs, the New BMW M5 Competition has been set up to handle the extra power.

Price and Pre-Booking 2022 BMW M5

BMW M5 Pricing with Monthly Instalment Plan through BMW Straight Line Financing

Model

Monthly Instalment Plan*

Recommended Retail Pricing**

BMW M5

From RM11,424.00

RM998,800

BMW M5 Competition

From RM13,597.00

RM1,188.80.00

*Based on estimates of an 80% loan on a seven-year tenure

**With BMW Service & Repair Inclusive and SST (on the road, without insurance)

The M5 and M5 Competition are now available for pre-booking on the BMW Shop Online platform via
shop.bmw.com.my
 at a fee of RM 5,000.

Owners of the cars will receive the complete BMW Group Malaysia Premium Ownership experience which includes:

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

BMW Roadside Assistance and Accident Hotline

The BMW Group Loyalty + Mobile App - BMW Privileges Card

BMW Service Online


Vehicle name change is a must –  concerns of foreigners using the vehicle unlawfully

You must transfer vehicle ownership when you sell your car, especially to foreigners as they have been found to use the vehicles unlawfully.

One of the reasons why everyone must change names when they sell their vehicles is so that the previous owner can
avoid any potential liability issues
 if anything happens to the car.

Kosmo recently brought to light that there is an issue regarding the sale of vehicles to foreigners
without transfer of title
, and apparently, it has been happening in the country for a long time now by a few parties who want to make a quick buck.

However, these few parties are not sensitive to the fact that selling vehicles to foreigners without changing ownership is legally wrong and can put themselves and other road users at risk.

The president of the Federation of Malaysian Car and Credit Companies Association, Datuk Tony Khor Chong Boon, has chimed in on this issue and said that this could lead to criminal incidents such as road bullying, robberies and road misdemeanours that the vehicle owner himself is not aware of.

"Not changing the name of the ownership of the vehicle is definitely wrong in the law. If anything happens, the fault lies with the vehicle owner, not the party who bought the vehicle.

"This will cause the vehicle owner to bear the risk and be hunted by the authorities if anything were to happen with the car," he told Kosmo.

He said, buyers should also follow the proper channels to buy any vehicle to avoid fraud.

"Sellers should also not take advantage of these foreigners. Some of them have valid documents and can change the title, but the seller prefers not to change the title in order to make a higher profit," he added.


Land Rover Discovery Tapau Nissan GT-R On The Green Hell

Now the Nordschleife is no stranger to feats of speed and record-breaking. It is the hallowed ground where automakers bring their latest performance models to stake a claim or break the record. This time, however, the scenes were a little different...

A
Land Rover Discovery
 ran rings around a Nissan GT-R around the
Green Hell
. Sure, this video is from two years ago, but the point we're trying to make is in the right hands any vehicle can be a fun car to chuck around corners. You don't need an E36 M3, or Skyline, or Supra or BRZ!

Watch the video below:

To add salt to the injury, the uploader M Gott explained that this was in winter and the Discovery had winter tires on, hardly a recipe for a 'tauge session' around the Nurburgring.

Quite aptly, as the first commenter on the video said 'it's not what you drive, it's how you drive it'

Now if you would like to hone your driving skills either to be a better all-round driver or a track day specialist then the Motorsports Association of Malaysia (MAM), has just announced a series of driver training and skills development programs, supported by the Ministry of Youth & Sports (KBS), Sepang International Circuit (SIC) and the Malaysia Speed Festival (MSF).

You can find all the details
here
.


The New Koenigsegg Regera Will Get To 400 KM/H With Only One Gear

Koenigsegg, the Swedish company that defies convention has released its latest car at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show that aims to be a more practical and comfortable ‘megacar’ as compared to their current models, the One:1 and the newly-launched Agera RS. Welcome everyone to the wacky and ingenious Koenigsegg Regera. With only 80 examples to be built, the Regera will mark Koenigsegg’s first time having two parallel models in production.
In Swedish, the name means “to reign” and the Regera is certainly looking to do just that in the highly contested world of ultra-performance cars. However, company founder, Christian von Koenigsegg has always had a unique vision and approach to the way he wants his cars to be built. From the organic but super slippery car body shape to the dihedral synchro-helix actuation doors found on other models, the company challenges itself to invent marvels of engineering.
The Regera is no exception. The design is recognisably a Koenigsegg with various side scoops, an active chassis with active suspension, and active aerodynamics beneath the car along with an adjustable rear wing. Various parts of the car’s body can be tucked away to create a perfectly streamlined shaped as and when required. Curb weight is at 1,628 kg with all fluids added and 1,420 kg without them.
A highlight on the exterior is the Regera’s ‘constellation’ daytime-running lights (DRLs) where the LEDs that make up the DRL, are scattered around the lamp cluster to produce a star constellations effect on a polished carbon fibre “night sky.”
The interior is also not as sparse as you might think. With added insulation, eight-way electrically adjustable seats, nine-inch infotainment system with 3G and Wi-Fi connectivity, front, inner and rear camera system with recording capability, Apple CarPlay, sound system, and ambient lighting, the Regera is the company’s most luxurious.
ICE & Direct Drive
The powertrain of the Koenigsegg Regera is a truly unique and we’re not just saying that because it’s an exotic car.
ICE here refers to the internal combustion engine, a drysumped twin-turbo DOHC 5.0-litre V8 engine that pushes out 1,100 hp and 1,250 Nm torque. That sounds pretty normal until we move on to the second portion of the powertrain, the Direct Drive transmission.
The Koenigsegg Direct Drive (KDD) transmission see the introduction of three electric motors with two on each rear wheel, making 241 hp each. The third makes 215 hp and sits on the crankshaft that provides torque-fill, electrical generation, starter motor functionality, and also allows for torque vectoring
That’s almost 700 hp from the electric motors alone and when combined with the ICE, over 1,500 hp and 2,000 Nm torque is available. The electric motors draw their power from a 9 kWh 620 volt, flooded liquid cooled battery pack which is charged via regenerative braking or using 200 hp from the engine acting as a generator.
The KDD isn’t a gearbox in the traditional sense. Instead of transmitting power through a transmission like a dual-clutch or CVT gearbox, it only has one final drive ratio of 2.85:1. The reason? Normal drivetrain losses associated with sending power through a transmission with multiple ratios are reduced by 50% and makes it lighter as well.
When travelling below 48 km/h, the Regera will run on pure electric power alone. Going beyond, the internal combustion engine comes to life and a hydraulic coupling that acts like a clutch that is locked in place. In theory, the gearbox have been replaced by the electric motors.
As you accelerate, the engine continues to drive the rear end in the locked gear ratio of 2.85:1, working in tandem with the electric motors up to the redline at 8,250 rpm. By then, you would be travelling at 400 km/h. When you get up to speed, the system really comes into its own.
0 – 100 km/h in 2.8 seconds. 150 km/h to 250 km/h in 3.2 seconds. If that isn’t enough to warp your mind, this will: 0 – 400 km/h in under 20 seconds. A diagram of the system is shown here:
Company founder Christian believes hybrids are compromised by weight, complexity, cost, packaging, and efficiency. With his KDD system, it is not only lighter but more efficient than parallel or series hybrids according to the Koenigsegg founder.


Elon Musk: Tesla Very Close To SAE Level 5 ‘Driverless Cars’

Elon Musk's bold claim that Tesla will have Level 5 autonomy by the end of this year is big news. Will they deliver?

Tesla CEO Elon Musk has stated that the company is “very close” to achieving SAE Level 5 autonomous driving vehicles within the year,
Reuters reports
.

SAE Level 5 autonomy refers to the highest level of vehicle automation meaning the car requires no input from the driver on highway, urban and sub-urban areas. This means Tesla is very close to achieving the technology that will allow you to watch a movie, or read the newspapers on your way to work while the car does all the rest.

During a video message at the opening of Shanghai’s annual World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC), Musk added, “I’m extremely confident that level 5 or essentially complete autonomy will happen and I think will happen very quickly. I remain confident that we will have the basic functionality for level 5 autonomy complete this year.”

Though it must be said, Elon Musk is no stranger to making exaggerated claims – Tesla claims that its proprietary “
Autopilot
” system achieving Level 5 puts it well ahead of many other
major manufacturers
 – such as Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, and Toyota, all of which are spending Billions of dollars in the race to conquer the next frontier of mobility.

Car manufacturers are not all – tech companies such as Alphabet (Google) and Uber are also leveraging Billions and their best ideas to lead the race to SAE Level 5.

If indeed Tesla does manage to achieve its stated goals and produce automation of that power, it puts the company ahead of many major manufacturers who have also committed to introducing their own versions of autonomous vehicles, though only later in this decade.

Volvo, who joined forces with Uber in 2017, introduced a Volvo XC90 last-year that is
fully capable of autonomous driving
 courtesy of key safety and backup features that allow Uber to easily tap into and install its own self-driving system, thereby enabling the possible future deployment of self-driving cars in Uber’s network as an autonomous ridesharing service. The company plans to sell up to 24,000 of these XC90s by 2021, though it will still require the full deployment of Uber’s self-driving architecture.

BMW and Daimler (Mercedes-Benz) who also inked a deal not too long ago, are confident of releasing SAE Level 4 vehicles by 2024. However, Elmar Frickenstein, BMW’s Senior Vice President for Autonomous Driving has previously said that it may achieve Level 4 to 5 automation by 2021.

And Toyota, perhaps one of the more sceptical carmakers in the early onset of autonomous technology, is now pouring Billions of dollars in R&D initiatives to catch up. They have also partnered with tech company NVIDIA in 2019 with hopes of introducing Level 4 vehicles within the decade.

Will we see Level 5 vehicles at the end of the year? It's hard to be certain with Musk, he does have the propensity of pulling a rabbit out of the hat when he needs to. We wait to be wow-ed!


Mercedes-Benz CLA And GLA – Now Assembled In Thailand

Mercedes-Benz Thailand has started local assembly the CLA-Class and GLA-Class models at its Thonburi Automotive Assembly Plant Co in Samut Prakan province.
The Thailand-assembled CLA-Class are offered in two main variants – the CLA 200 and CLA 250, with prices ranging from 2.14 million Baht to 2.49 million Baht.
The fully-imported CLA 180 AND CLA 45 AMG 4Matic will continue to be sold alongside the locally-assembled CLA-Class models.
Meanwhile the Thailand-assembled GLA-Class models are the GLA 200 and GLA 250, priced between 2.09 million Baht and 2.44 million Baht.
Will these cheaper, Thai-assembled models come to Malaysia?
Unlikely. In order for an imported car to be exempted from the 30 percent import duty under the ASEAN Free Trade Agreement (AFTA), the vehicle must have at least 40 percent of its components sourced from countries in the ASEAN region.
Currently, the Thailand-assembled CLA-Class and GLA-Class models appears to cater only for domestic sales.


2017 BMW 530e, 225xe Active Tourer PHEVs Launched In Singapore – ASEAN Market Debuts

BMW has launched a full range of five iPerformance plug-in hybrid models along with the
94 Ah i3
 in Singapore. The range of iPerformance PHEV models launched includes the
225xe Active Tourer
, the
330e
, the
530e
, the
740Le xDrive
, and
X5 xDrive40e
.
Among the five PHEV models launched, three are familiar to us in the
Malaysian market
, namely the 330e, 740Le, and X5 xDrive40e. The other two, the 225xe Active Tourer and the 530e are being offered in an ASEAN market for the first time.
Of particular interest to our market is the 530e, a model with strong likelihood of being locally-assembled here to take advantage of EEV incentives. The 5 Series' two key rivals in Malaysia, the
Volvo S90
 and
Mercedes-Benz E-Class
, are both set to introduce PHEV variants of their own, meaning BMW cannot afford to be left out of the game at any rate.
BMW currently offers the
G30 5 Series
 in Malaysia as a
CBU model
, but in keeping with ongoing practice, will switch to local assembly for the longer term.
Following a setup similar to the 330e, the 530e mates BMW’s 2.0-litre B48 petrol engine generating 184 hp and 290 Nm with a 113 hp / 250 Nm electric motor sandwiched between the engine and transmission. Net system output is rated at 252 hp and 420 Nm.
The 530e is able to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.2 seconds on its way to a top speed of 235 km/h. A full charge of battery is said to provide up to 50 km of pure electric cruising up to a maximum speed of 140 km/h. The 330e, in comparison, is claimed to do only 35 km.
Priced at SGD 280,800 including COE, the 530e joins BMW Singapore’s line-up of the G30 5 Series that also includes the 2.0-litre petrol 530i, 3.0-litre petrol 540i, and 2.0-litre diesel 520d variants.
Meanwhile, the 225xe Active Tourer features the 1.5-litre three-cylinder B38 powerplant supplying the front wheels with 136 hp through a six-speed automatic transmission joining forces with an 88 hp electric motor driving the rear axle.
Powering the motor is a lithium-ion battery installed under the rear seats with energy capacity of 7.6 kWh, enough to propel the 225xe on electric power for 41 km on a full charge. Maximum speed in full EV mode is 125 km/h, whilst the vehicle’s overall top speed is 202 km/h.
To accommodate the battery, the rear seats are raised by 30 mm compared to regular versions of the 2 Series Active Tourer. The 225xe Active Tourer is priced at SGD 176,800 inclusive COE.
Two of Singapore’s government agencies – the Land Transport Authority (LTA) and the Economic Development Board – have recently joint forces to launch an electric vehicle car-sharing programme that will see 1,000 EVs and 2,000 charging points being rolled out across the island republic from now till 2020.


Prices Of Fuel Not Going Down Tomorrow

The retail prices of fuel in Malaysia will not change tomorrow, as the Government has not formally met and set the price. Last week, the Ministry of Finance (MoF) announced that the consumers will be seeing
lower fuel prices on January
 2019 thanks to lowering crude oil prices.
Lim Guan Eng, the Finance Minister, said that the fuel prices will maintain at its respective levels.
"The Cabinet will meet on January 2nd, chaired by Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, to determine the retail prices of petroleum products at the optimum level," he said.
Lim added that the Government is also listening to request by the Petroleum Dealers Association of Malaysia (PDAM) who is
against the weekly pricing
 mechanism, citing unfavourable trading methods.
A following report by
The Star
 added that Tun Dr Mahathir was expected to meet with PDAM today to find ways to resolve their problems.


Good News: 2023 Mercedes-AMG C 63 Has 680PS, 1020Nm!

Last night, Mercedes-Benz took the wraps off the new hottest C-Class, the AMG C 63. I’ve some distressing news
if you were hoping for a thumping V8
 under that bonnet. But for the rest of us that saw the writing on the wall, you already know the deal.

Its full name is the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance, and its makers say it funnels plenty of F1 tech into a road car, such as to effectively eliminate turbo-lag (not that it was really an issue in their twin-turbo V8s, really). Also, apparently there is no ‘non-S’ variant this time around.

Fortunately, what we do have is an estate/wagon version revealed at the same time as the sedan
like it's not even a big deal
 #BMW.

Many months earlier, Affalterbach was already busy laying padding to soften this particularly sour blow, as rumours swirled about the next C 63 shedding a large displacement engine for what is essentially the 2.0-litre 4-cylinder big-turbo powerplant
first seen in the W177 A 45 S
 working together with an electric motor for even more oomph.

C 63 + AMG’s F1 Tech = Cheap Road Tax

While that M139 produced 410PS in the C 43 and 420PS in the AWD mega hatchback - and at the time being crowned the most powerful production four-cylinder by specific output - AMG has cranked it up even more here via an electric turbocharger that runs off a 400V architecture. Virtually instant spooling and big power.

This, as well as through means we only presume to be black magic, the 1,991cc unit produces a mighty
476PS
 and
545Nm
 on its own. That’s 238PS per-litre - nuts! The rear-axle mounted electric motor is a bit of a brute as well, delivering
201PS
 and
320Nm
, giving the all-new C 63 a total combined output of
680PS
 and a massive four-figure peak torque figure:
1,020Nm
.

Pictured: AMG C 43

All these superlative numbers are seemingly meant to distract AMG loyalists from the fact that it no longer has that throaty V8 rumble and street brawler character. We’ve no doubt the new car is seriously quick, but also suspect that something has inevitably been lost. Interestingly, this initial reveal included no official hi-res image of the car with its bonnet open. Wonder why?

Engine power gets routed to the 9-speed automatic before it is sent to all four wheels (for the first time in a C 63) via Mercedes-Benz’s 4Matic system to match
rivals like the BMW M3
 xDrive and Audi RS4 Avant that have similar all-paw ability. AMG claims it needs just 3.4 seconds to rocket to 100km/h while top speed is electronically limited in typical fashion to 250km/h.

AWD For The First Time

While the lesser C 43’s AWD system maintained a fixed 31:69 torque split, the C 63’s is fully variable and even gains the capability of decoupling the front axle entirely for a RWD drift mode.

It ticks the boxes, for sure, with the new hybrid powertrain granting more power, torque, and more rapid acceleration over its predecessor and its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8. Efficiency is another big plus too, and since it’s a PHEV, its modest 6.1kWh onboard lithium-ion battery can supply enough juice to propel the car for 13km without invoking the engine.

That said, though many lamented the BMW G80 for its challenging looks as much as its bulkier size and weight (with xDrive) at just under 1,800kg, this newest AMG equivalent is now a 2.1-tonne performance sedan thanks to its shift to hybrid power, roughly an increase of 300kg over the older model.

For added agility and perhaps to offset all that added mass, they’ve also equipped the car with rear-axle steering (up to 2.5 degrees) and a set of adaptive dampers. Rotor dimensions for the standard steel brakes (ceramics optional) are not disclosed but predictably massive paired to six-piston calipers up front, though much of the normal stopping power is meant to be significantly aided by 4-stage regenerative braking.

Killer AMG Looks

Visually, the C 63 looks incredible. Mercedes-AMG has honed its ability to ramp up the aggression over Benz’s base cars, and the leap from the standard W206 to this is noticeable more athletic but tastefully restrained. Can’t say the same about the contrast between the M3 and a normal 3 Series.

Inside, the same ethos is reflected with distinctly racier trim but nothing overt. The body-hugging sport seats notwithstanding, there really isn’t much that shouts about the fact that you’ve access to 1,020Nm (in the right drive mode and with everythin fully charged) behind that right pedal, managing to give the impression that you’re in something as docile as an AMG-Line.

The 2023 Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance certainly rocks the boat and will no doubt divide opinion. We can’t wait for the chance to drive one nonetheless. There are huge performance leaps here and the tech in play to achieve that is very impressive, but with that is the inclusion of so much more complexity and many more kilograms.

Hmm...


Get Creative And ‘Create Your Own Adventure’ With Jeep Malaysia

Jeep
 has its roots embedded in the sense of adventure, and with its newest Create Your Own Adventure campaign, Jeep Malaysia wants to instil - or at least bring out - this quality in the minds of more people.
The contest revolves around a
Wrangler
 cut out that you can print out from their website. Simply print it, cut it out, and fold it. From there, you’re free to decorate and personalise it to your heart’s content.
Invoke the spirit of adventure and let that creativity reflect on your customized Jeep paper toy. Then it’s just a matter of taking a photo of your creation and uploading it in the comments section of the official contest post on the
Jeep Malaysia Facebook page
 – you can submit as many entries as you want.
The photo with the most number of likes is the winner, who will receive Jeep-branded gear that fits your go-anywhere style and equips you for your next adventure.
You can find more information by visiting their
contest page here
.


2018 All-New Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 World Debut – 755 hp, 969 Nm

The fastest, most powerful production Chevrolet Corvette ever, the 2018 Corvette ZR1 has been unveiled. Slated to hit U.S showrooms as early as March 2018, the ZR1 will take its place atop the Corvette Z06 (and Z07 Performance Package model), borrowing know-how and technology from the company's C7.R racecar program.
The all-new ZR1 delivers the highest specific output of any Corvette, thanks to a supercharged (LT5) 6.2-litre V8 engine producing a whopping 755 hp (more than a
Porsche GT2 RS
) and 969 Nm of torque.
The power gains come courtesy of a new, intercooled supercharger system that offers 52 percent more displacement than the Corvette Z06’s (LT4) supercharger. The ZR1 also uses GM’s first dual-fuel-injection system, which employs a primary direct injection and supplemental port injection, to achieve its output.
The all-new ZR1 also produces 117 hp more than the sixth-generation ZR1, which delivered 638 hp from its supercharged 6.2-litre V8.
Both seven-speed manual and eight-speed paddle-shift automatic transmissions are available. This is the first time an automatic transmission will be offered in a ZR1. Top speed is claimed to be in excess of 330km/h.
Two wind tunnel-honed aerodynamics packages are offered - a standard rear ‘Low Wing’, which delivers the highest top speed and an optional two-way-adjustable ‘High Wing’ that offers up to 430 kg of downforce, suited for track use. A Chevrolet-first, downforce-enhancing front underwing is also fitted as standard.
Both of the ZR1’s wings are tied into the chassis, like the Corvette Racing C7.R racecar, for added strength.
The front fascia is designed to channel air for the engine and drivetrain cooling, concealing four new radiators - bringing the total number of heat-exchangers to 13.
The ZR1 wears Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres, and is modulated by a specific tuning for the chassis and 'Magnetic Ride' active suspension to achieve greater traction.
The Corvette ZR1 also debuts the new Sebring Orange Design Package. Centered on its Sebring Orange Tintcoat exterior color, the package also includes orange brake calipers, orange rocker and splitter accent stripes, orange seat belts, orange interior stitching and unique, bronze aluminum interior trim.
On the inside – the driver-focused cockpit includes standard leather-trimmed seats, with suede-microfiber inserts. Optionally, customers can opt for competition sports seats, a 'Performance Data Recorder' and Bose premium audio system.


All-New F40 BMW 1 Series Announced – FWD Or AWD, 5-Door Only

BMW has just announced the all-new F40 1 Series, the third iteration of BMW’s successful entry-level model.
Unlike earlier models, the all-new F40 1 Series now features a front-wheel drive layout, instead of the more driver-centric rear-wheel drive format. BMW has also dropped the 3-door hatchback variant of the all-new 1 Series, keeping the new model strictly as a 5-door hatchback.
That said, the all-new F40 1 Series is the first petrol-powered BMW model to receive ARB (actuator contiguous wheel slip limitation), first found on the BMW i3s. ARB is fitted as standard to all variants of the new 1 Series, and it works hand-in-hand with BMW Performance Control (yaw movement distribution) to limit understeer.
But BMW is quick to announce that the all-new F40 1 Series is a ‘proper BMW’, and that the interior space is considerably roomier than its predecessors. In addition to that, the boot capacity has increased by 20 litres over the F20-generation 1 Series, coming in at 380 litres. With the rear seats folded down, boot space can be increased to 1,200 litres.
Continuing on the dimensions of the all-new model, the F40-generation 1 Series has a length of 4,319 mm, width of 1,799 mm, and a height of 1,434 mm. Wheelbase is 20 mm shorter, coming in at 2,670 mm.
At launch, the F40 1 Series can be had with 2 petrol engines and 3 diesel engines. Sitting on top of the F40 1 Series range is the M135i xDrive, powered by a 2.0-litre TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder petrol engine that does 306 hp and 450 Nm, channelled to all four wheels via BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive system. 0-100 km/h is achieved in just 4.8 seconds, while top speed is rated at 250 km/h.
Unlike its key rival the Mercedes-Benz A-Class, all variants of the F40 1 Series will get multi-link rear suspension.
Similar to other recently-introduced BMW models, the all-new 1 Series can be had with dual 10.25-inch displays running on the BMW Operating System 7.0. Other optional extras include BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, Parking Assistant, and BMW Digital Key.
As mentioned before, BMW will showcase the all-new 1 Series at the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show, but prior to that, the new model will be shown to the public at the BMW Group #NEXTGen technology showcase at BMW Welt in Munich from 25
th
 to 27
th
 June. Worldwide launch of the new model will begin from 28
th
 September.


PLUS Announces NKVE Traffic Diversion Northbound To Jalan Duta Toll

Users of the North Klang Valley Expressway take note, a traffic diversion will be ongoing between 10pm and 5am on Monday, April 27th to Wednesday, April 29th in the northbound lane.
This is to ensure safety during the beam launching works undertaken for the highway widening project at the Bukit Lanjan Interchange. The diversion will affect those travelling from Shah Alam, Damansara, and Petaling Jaya towards the Jalan Duta Toll Plaza. Vehicles will have to head further north to make a U-turn near the Sungai Buloh Overhead Restaurant at kilometre 458.5.
Despite the diversion taking place during the late hours, PLUS (Projek Lebuhraya Usahasama Berhad) foresees minor traffic disruptions affecting at the aforementioned stretches throughout the construction period. Various measures will be put into place to make sure traffic flow is only minimally disturbed but drivers are advised to plan their journey accordingly regardless.


BMW M Owners Malaysia Roll Into Pavillion For a M-erry Christmas!

More than 80 BMW M cars rolled into Pavillion Bukit Jalli to kick-off the M-erriment of the season by Chasing Christmas!

The previous day's torrential downpour and flash floods did little to dampen the mood of the BMW M Owners Club Malaysia as they turned up early on a Saturday morning to express their love for all things BMW M.

The BMW M (Motorsports) Division will be celebrating its 50 year anniversary next year and if today's event was a precursor of what is to come in 2022, then Malaysia is in for one M-onstrous celebration.

The event kicked off with the opening speech from Hans de Visser, BMW Group Malaysia Managing Director and Andrew Lim, Event Liaison, M Owners Malaysia.

According to Hans, today's event was the largest M Owners gathering seen in Malaysia thus far.

There were games, an M Car Competition where participants were able to take part in Best ///Modded, Original (Stock), Wrap, Interior and Wheels.

Not forgetting the reason for the season, there was also a Christmas gift handover session for children from Rumah Charis and Tender Hearts.

The event wrapped up with a lucky draw as well as the winner's announcement from the M Car Competition.

The highlight of the show for us at least was this M635C Si below!

Bring on 50 Years of M in 2022!


Berlakon Cacat Untuk Petak Parkir OKU, Pemuda Digesa Untuk Minta Maaf

Tindakan dua pemuda yang berlakon cacat untuk menggunakan parkir khas
orang kelainan upaya (OKU)
 di sebuah pusat membeli belah telah mengundang amarah netizen.

Rakaman video TikTok oleh salah seorang pemuda tersebut, yang kononnya memberikan ‘tips’ bagaimana untuk mendapatkan parkir dengan berlakon sebagai orang cacat dan menggunakan parkir khas OKU, telah dipadam olehnya selepas menerima kecaman daripada orang ramai.

Dalam video berdurasi 37 saat itu, si pemuda ‘cacat’ ini keluar dari kereta dan berjalan dalam keadaan senget benget, siap ekpresi muka seakan OKU sebenar.

“Ini kalau kantoi dengan pak guard ni, memang mati kau. Tapi, dapat parking, s***. Ni tengok kereta hitam aku ni, betul-betul dapat parking. Terima kasih, Jim,” seloroh rakannya yang turut merakam aksi biadab ‘Jim’ itu.

Difahamkan, lelaki yang menghasilkan video ini menjelaskan bahawa ia hanyalah sekadar ‘content’ sahaja dan ia bertujuan untuk mengingatkan orang ramai supaya tidak mengambil kesempatan keatas mana-mana OKU.

Tambahnya lagi, ramai tidak kenal dengan tema ‘content’ mereka yang dikatakan berdasarkan ‘realiti kehidupan’.

Selain netizen, video tersebut mendapat perhatian Ahli Dewan Negara (Wakil OKU),
Senator Datuk Ras Adiba Radzi
 yang menyelar tindakan kedua-dua anak muda itu sebagai biadab.

“Kalian semua telah mempersendakan kami (OKU) dengan menggunakan parkir OKU serta berlakon diri anda sebagai seorang OKU. Saya pohon kalian meminta maaf kepada komuniti OKU di negara kita,” ujar Ras Adiba.

Tambah bekas personaliti televisyen itu, sebagai suara kepada golongan OKU, beliau berasa kecewa dengan sikap segelintir rakyat Malaysia yang menggunakan
kemudahan khas buat golongan OKU
 tanpa rasa bersalah.

Setakat ini masih tiada permohonan maaf yang dikeluarkan kedua-duanya, mungkin mereka masih mahu menegakkan benang yang basah, dengan pusing cerita mengatakan ini adalah ‘content’ semata-mata.

Kalau sesiapa kenal kedua-dua mereka ini, tolong sampaikan nasihat yer. Berubahlah dik, kerana setiap tindakan itu adalah satu doa...atau memang ada niat nak jadi OKU kekal?


New 2017 Hyundai Sonata (LF Generation) Launched In Korea

Three years after its global debut, the current LF-generation Hyundai Sonata has been given a mid-lifecycle refresh following a rather lackluster performance in major markets like USA.
The main highlight of the new Sonata is its revised engine options, which now includes two turbocharged direct injection petrol engines – a 180 PS 1.6-litre T-GDI and a 245 PS 2.0-litre T-GDI, both paired to an 8-speed automatic transmission. These T-GDI engines will only be available in certain markets. Australia and USA are on the list but there is no mention about its availability in other Asian markets like ours.
Currently, the outgoing pre-facelift Sonata LF sold in Malaysia is powered by a 154 PS 2.0-litre naturally aspirated port injection Nu MPI engine.
Other engine options for the new Sonata facelift include a 141 PS 1.7-litre variable geometry turbo diesel and a 163 PS naturally aspirated 2.0-litre CVVL.
From the outside, the new Sonata is differentiated by its new narrower headlamps, wider grille, and a new front bumper with vertical LED daytime running lights.
Behind, the boot now features a larger Hyundai logo and Sonata badge. The upper portion of the Hyundai badge doubles as a boot release button.
Inside, controls for the air-conditioning and audio have been revised with higher quality ‘piano key’ buttons. A 7-inch touchscreen infotainment display that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard but some markets like Korea will receive a larger 8-inch screen with GPS Navigation.
The 2.0-litre T-GDI variants will also get a sportier flat-bottom steering wheel.
There are also additional USB charging port for rear passengers, and wireless smartphone charging is now available.
As for safety, the list of Advanced Driving Assistance features now includes Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist function, High Beam Assist, Dynamic Bending Lights, Blind Spot Detection and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.
Currently on sale only in Korea, the new 2017 Hyundai Sonata facelift will be progressively launched in selected markets from mid-2017 onwards.


The Mercedes-AMG GLC63 Gets A Facelift

As we've seen just a couple of weeks ago with the regular Mercedes-Benz GLC models, it would only be a matter of time before the facelift treatment was extended to the range-topping AMG 63 and 63S variants. Yes, these are the biturbo V8 models with 476 hp and 510 hp respectively, as well as 650 Nm of torque and 700 Nm of torque respectively as well. The mechanicals in that sense are unchanged, as power is still sent to all four wheels via the 4MATIC+ system and the AMG Speedshift MCT 9G automatic transmission.
So what has changed? As usual, we'll highlight the fact that the ageing entertainment system has finally been upgraded to MBUX, but in a more sedate version without the huge dual screen display that quite nearly defines the system with its introduction in the A Class. MBUX offers better connectivity as well as easier operation, and in the last year or so has become the industry standard by which we measure other entertainment systems.
There's a new headlamp and tail lamp design, which loosely mirrors that of the regular GLC models. New massive 21-inch alloy wheels are also available as an option, over the already massive 20-inch alloy wheels it comes with from factory. The exhaust tips are a little darker though not all-too-different from the model it replaces, which helps to make the GLC 63 a little stealthier. There's also a new graphite grey metallic paint option - although this isn't particularly exciting as Mercedes-AMG has always had a huge range of colour options.
On the inside, it's the usual changes with a better AMG steering wheel and more buttons to push - an item that's seemingly optional on the non 'S' models - as well as magma grey and black upholstery with contrast yellow stitching. On the whole it's these minor touches that help the GLC63 and GLC63S models to stay relevant, regardless of whether you opt for the SUV or Coupe body styles.
The AMG Dynamic Select drive program gets a couple of updates, with dynamic handling control options in addition to the regular mode settings which adjust the steering, throttle response, and suspension stiffness. There's a new "Slippery" mode, which is for - you guessed it - slippery conditions. There are also electronically controlled locking differentials as standard across all the models, which should help with putting power down predictably.
And that's all there really is to it. It's a model we absolutely love, and Mercedes-AMG has wisely avoided deviating a great deal from a winning formula. The GLC platform is one that follows the traditional SUV form to a T, and shoving one of the most powerful Mercedes-AMG powertrains in there instantly provides it with a Jekyll-and-Hyde dichotomy.


2022 Land Rover Defender (L663) Spied Roaming Selangor Suburbs

The
all-new Land Rover Defender (L663)
 is here in Malaysia but merely has not been launched quite yet. In fact, a small fleet of them has been spied around Petaling Jaya, Subang Jaya, and Ara Damansara in a sort of unofficial publicity parade.

Of course, it didn’t take long for images of the newest off-roading British SUV (in full camouflage because why not) started circulating on social media and the rest as its distinctive wrap job certainly does draw attention.

These images here were spied while the Defender, in longer wheelbase 110 form, was found roaming around the Subang Airport Industrial Park. In any case, with local testing being done so openly, we imagine a full-on launch (likely virtual, but hopefully not) is on the cards for the near future.

Interestingly, full variant breakdowns and specifications for the L663 Defender can already be found published on the Land Rover Malaysia website. If unchanged, its arrival will comprise both the three-door
Defender 90 and five-door Defender 110
.

For each body style, buyers will be able to choose from five trim lines with ascending levels of equipment, luxury and safety features with corresponding price points. They are the entry-level 90 or 110, and joined by the S, SE, HSE, and range-topping X.

All variants will come with LED headlights, 3D surround camera, lane keep assist, and Land Rover’s Terrain Response system. However, move up the cost ladder and niceties such as grained leather upholstery, a choice of Meridian surround sound systems, active safety, and air suspension become available.

Land Rover Malaysia will also be offering First Edition variants at launch, which will likely be in limited supply but will be fitted with pretty much the full assortment of toys and gadgets.

In terms of engines, there will be a choice of two petrols
from JLR’s Ingenium range
, both paired to an 8-speed automatic, kicking off with a ‘P300’ option with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder producing 300hp and 400Nm. Above this, a P400 MHEV will consist of a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-6 paired to a mild-hybrid starter-generator electric motor for a more beastly 400hp and 550Nm.

With a launch this close, there’s bound to be plenty more news about the Defender’s Malaysian premiere, so stay tuned.


Infiniti VC-T – The Engine with Shape-Shifting Con-Rods

Infiniti has announced it will pull the covers off the world’s first production-ready variable compression ratio engine at this year’s Paris Motor Show later this month.
‘VC-T’ stands for Variable Compression – Turbocharged and is a product of more than 20-years of development – offering a significant breakthrough in internal combustion powertrain technology.
However, the title can be misleading – variable compression ratio engines have practically been around for years. Engines that run the Atkinson Cycle vary the compression ratio by altering the duration of the intake valve opening and closing event. Infiniti’s VC-T on the other hand, varies the height of the connect rods. The ingenuity of VC-T engine technology therefore lies in its ability to dynamically raise or lower the height of the piston’s reach.
As a consequence, the displacement of the engine changes and the compression ratio can vary anywhere between 8:1 (for high performance) and 14:1 (for high efficiency). The system is augmented by sophisticated engine control logic that varies its response based on the prevalent driving requirements.
Infiniti claim the VC-T engine significantly reduces fuel consumption and emissions and greatly reduced noise and vibration levels. It is also lighter and more compact than comparable conventional internal combustion engines.


Suzuki Will Bring A Retro-Style Jimny Pickup To Tokyo Auto Salon

The Suzuki Jimny is one of those cars that has managed to stay abreast of the passage of time. This is good and bad - it's a quirky little car by modern standards, but with great retro styling and a ruggedness that is rarely found even in so-called off-road vehicles. To this day, old Jimnys are still highly valued and their used car prices reflect this.
But it's also powered by a number of despairingly weak powertrains, and is priced far too high to be a practical proposition. Despite that, Suzuki has decided to produce a retro-styled Jimny Pickup and will be bringing it to the upcoming Tokyo Auto Salon. It's based on the Jimny Sierra, and features styling cues not just from Jimnys of old but from the Land Cruiser as well.
In addition to this, Suzuki will also bring a toughed-up Jimny known as the Jimny Survive. This is something that looks straight out of an apocalypse movie, with metal bumpers all round and an external roll cage, as well as diamond-plate bodywork and bead-lock rims. We love these incredibly compact off-road vehicles - we only wish they were a little more affordable.


Mercedes-Benz Previews The Mercedes-AMG E53 Models In Malaysia, Estimated From RM740k

Straight after the announcement of their stellar
performance of the first nine months of 2018
, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia took the wraps off their latest addition to the E-Class line-up: the Mercedes-AMG E53 4Matic+ model.
The Mercedes-AMG E53 4Matic+ model replaces the previous E43 model. The all-new six-cylinder engine, now in an inline configuration, features an electric compressor as well as a large exhaust gas-driven turbocharger. Additional low-speed performance is aided by a compact electric motor housed between the engine and transmission.
Mercedes-Benz does not combine the output of both systems: the 3.0-litre engine delivers 435 hp and 520 Nm of torque, while the electric motor adds 22 hp and 250 Nm of torque, which the company terms it as EQ Boost.
All that power and boost is transferred to all four wheels through the AMG Speedshift 9-speed automatic transmission with 4Matic+ fully variable torque distribution. This powertrain thus propels the large sedan from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds. The
recently launched Mercedes-AMG CLS 53
 also features this setup and is priced from RM 878,888 (with effect from September 2018)
Moving to the interior, the steering wheel now features an exclusive AMG Performance item. The seat upholstery of the sedan model is wrapped in a sporty combination of Artico leather and Dinamica microfiber, while the coupe model features full Nappa leather.
Other features that are seen in the preview units include:
20-inch tyres and wheels
AMG Ride Control+ air suspension system
AMG Performance Exhaust
Driving Assistance package
Energizing Comfort
Head-up display (Coupe only)
AMG Track Pace data logging and analysis
The estimated prices for the Mercedes-AMG E53 sedan and coupe are RM740,000 and RM764,000 respectively.


Toyota Crown’s Malaysia’s Maiden Racing ESport Champion

After two days of qualifying and racing at Sunway Pyramid, Muhammad Uzair Bin S Abdul Nasir Khan was the first to cross the finishing line and crowned as champion of the inaugural Toyota Velocity Esport Championship.
For his hard work and sheer talent in battling with the very best of Malaysia’s Gran Turismo Sport players, Muhammad Uzair takes home RM20,000 and the championship trophy.
Second-place went to Mior Muhammad Hafiz Mior Lahmudin and awarded RM10,000, while Aiman Haziq Aidi completed the podium and received RM5,000. The remaining seven finalists also receive RM2,000 each.
All 400 qualifying slots that were spread between two days of play were taken up within a short time after UMW Toyota (UMWT)
announced the event
. Players were required to set their fastest lap time using the Toyota GR Supra Racing Concept vehicle on the technical Suzuka Circuit. Muhammad Uzair also clocked the fastest qualifying time of 1:57.58 on Saturday.
The fastest 20 players then proceeded to a semi-final and then grand final 10-lap race with the fastest 10 players. The Playstation 4 machines were also fitted with the latest Thrustmaster T-GT controller for precise driver input as well as vehicle feedback.
“We are delighted with the overwhelming response from the public towards the very first Toyota Velocity Championship. Esports is definitely a rapidly rising industry not just in Malaysia but also globally as it provides exciting experience for the younger generation. Toyota’s involvement and strong presence in such activities complement the dynamic and sporty side of the brand,” said Mr Ravindran K., President of UMWT.
UMWT is the first Malaysian automotive company to be associated with the fast-growing Esports racing activity, which virtually mirrors the high-performance activities of Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR), giving the public a chance to experience the thrills and excitement of racing.
Apart from the public and media challenge, there was also an exciting exhibition race between the celebrities from the TGR Vios Challenge. Lucky fans also managed to interact with their favourite celebrities during the event.
Fans will also be able to catch the celebrities at the second round of the
Vios Challenge
 at the TGR Racing Festival, scheduled from 19th to 21st October at MAEPS, Serdang.


Perodua Axia Musnah Ditimpa Pokok Berusia Lebih 100 Tahun – DBKL Tanggung Kerosakan

Boleh bayangkan tak apa nasib
Perodua Axia
 yang kecil molek itu apabila ditimpa oleh pokok besar yang berusia lebih 100 tahun? Itulah yang terjadi di Bukit Bintang baru-baru ini.

Pukulan angin kencang serta hujan lebat yang melanda ibu kota sejak awal pagi itu telah mengakibatkan pokok tersebut tumbang dan menimpa sebuah Perodua Axia berdekatan sebuah hotel di Jalan Bintang, Kuala Lumpur.

Melalui gambar yang dikeluarkan, ukuran lebar batang pokok itu sahaja sudah melebihi ukuran penuh sebuah Axia. Bayangkan bagaimana keadaan Axia itu setelah ditimpa pokok berkenaan. Takkan calar sikit je, kan? Mestilah musnah habis.

*Kredit foto: Berita Harian

Pengarah Eksekutif Sosio Ekonomi Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur (DBKL), Anwar Mohd. Zain berkata, pihaknya menerima aduan mengenai kejadian itu kira-kira pukul 6 pagi pada hari Rabu, 22 Disember.

Menurut beliau, seramai 15 anggota dari 3 pasukan Skuad Kecemasan DBKL telah dikejarkan ke lokasi untuk membuat kawalan dan melakukan kerja-kerja pembersihan. Kerja pembersihan itu bermula kira-kira jam 7 pagi hari yang sama dengan bantuan beberapa jentera dan lori.

Anwar turut mengesahkan bahawa dalam kejadian ini, tiada mangsa dilaporkan cedera. Yang terkorban hanyalah sebuah kereta Perodua Axia tidak berpenghuni yang diletakkan berhampiran hotel berkenaan, manakala tiada kerosakan serius membabitkan struktur bangunan hotel terbabit.

*Kredit foto: Kosmo

Kalau anda terfikir tentang nasib pemilik Axia tersebut, ia memang sesuatu yang malang memandangkan kereta miliknya yang musnah. Walau bagaimanapun, pemilik berkenaan boleh menuntut
insurans
 dengan pihak DBKL berhubung segala kerosakan yang dialami dalam kejadian tersebut. Malah Anwar turut mengesahkan bahawa pihaknya telah menemui pemilik Axia terbabit dan memaklumkan segalanya berhubung perkara itu.

Pada hari yang sama pokok besar veteran ini tumbang, pihak DBKL dilaporkan telah menerima 3 lagi aduan selain kes berkenaan membabitkan pokok tumbang di sekitar ibu kota ini. Ini menandakan semua pemandu perlu lebih berhati-hati ketika memandu serta memilih kawasan letak kereta yang lebih sesuai tambah-tambah ketika cuaca buruk seperti sekarang.

Dalam musim cuaca tidak menentu seperti hujan lebat, ribut dan
banjir
, sentiasalah berhati-hati apabila meletakkan kenderaan atau melalui kawasan yang mempunyai banyak pokok kerana ia berisiko untuk tumbang.


New McLaren 720S Spider Joins Brand’s Super Series Family

McLaren has expanded its Super Series product family with the introduction of a second new model under the “Track25” business plan - the new 720S Spider.
Weighing 49 kg over the 720S Coupe, the 720S Spider features a new, electrically actuated Retractable Hard Top (RHT) which is seamlessly integrated into the design.
The folding mechanism for McLaren’s new RHT, which is electrically driven rather than hydraulically, is the fastest-operating convertible roof in the supercar class, with the retractable hard top lowered or raised in just 11 seconds – six seconds quicker than the 650S Spider.
The combination of e-motors and the strength and light weight of the carbon fibre RHT enables a maximum vehicle speed during operation of 50km/h – a significant increase from the 30km/h of the 650S.
Like all McLaren cars, the new 720S Spider has a carbon fibre structure at its core, in this case the designated Monocage II-S platform.
The rearmost section of the upper structure is also unique to the Spider, to accommodate the Retractable Hard Top. Additionally, the header rail across the top of the windscreen has been revised to integrate the central latching mechanism.
Despite the removal of the fixed roof there is no additional strengthening. Even the unusually slim but incredibly strong windscreen A-pillars first seen on the 720S Coupé remain.
To accommodate the Retractable Hard Top, the Monocage II-S features a new carbon fibre upper structure engineered to sit as close as possible to the air charge coolers and intake plenum.
Powering the 720S Spider is the same mid-mounted 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine that powers the Coupé, producing 720 PS and 770 Nm. Paired to the engine is a 7-speed SSG gearbox.
Acceleration is nothing short of phenomenal with 0-100km/h covered in 2.9 seconds and 0-200km/h achieved in just 7.9 seconds – just 0.1 seconds off the pace of the Coupé.
While the Spider is capable of clocking a top speed 341km/h with the roof raised, the maximum speed when the roof is closed stands at 325km/h.
As with the Coupé, a Spider driver can choose between three Handling modes – Comfort, Sport, or Track – each focused on a different driving experience according to personal preference and conditions.
Owners wanting to experience the open-air nature of the 720S Spider even with the roof closed can specify a carbon fibre-framed, glazed RHT option to allow even more light into the cabin.
How it works is that the glass is electrochromic and can switch rapidly between a transparent or tinted state at the touch of a button.  When the ignition is off, the glass reverts to its tinted setting, helping keep the cabin of the 720S Spider cool during hot days.
The electrochromic technology has a memory function that recalls the previous setting selected when the vehicle is next started.
Inside, a centrally-mounted 8.0-inch high-resolution Central Infotainment Screen remains the primary hub for the vehicle’s functions.  The interface displays audio, media, navigation, climate control and other convenience features, with all the key applications shown on a vertical carousel as well as being available via quick-access ‘hard’ keys below the screen.
The dual-zone climate control and air conditioning system has been recalibrated for the 720S Spider and is able to detect if the RHT position changes from raised to lowered or vice versa.
Last but not least, a new 10-spoke, Lightweight forged alloy wheel design has been developed for the new Spider.
The new 720S Spider is available in the same three specifications as the Coupé, with Performance and Luxury trims extending above the standard model.  Two new exterior colours – Belize Blue and Aztec Gold – have been introduced for the new Spider among a palette of 23, one of which is Supernova Silver, a Heritage colour that was first available on the McLaren 12C.