Porsche Unveils New 718 Spyder And 718 Cayman GT4 - 6 Speed Manual, 0 to 100 In 4.4 Seconds

Porsche has announced the addition of the new 718 Spyder and the 718 Cayman GT4 into its 718 model range.
For the first time ever, both the 718 Spyder and the 718 Cayman GT4 share the same technical base. This includes the newly developed 4.0-litre 6-cylinder naturally aspirated engine that is paired to a 6-speed manual transmission.
The naturally aspirated engine, which is based on the same engine family as the turbo engines in the current 911 Carrera model series, generates 420 PS (35 PS more than the GT4 predecessor models) and 420 Nm of maximum torque.
Thanks to the powertrain, both cars are capable of breaking the 300 km/h barrier. While the 718 Spyder has a top speed of 301 km/h, the 718 Cayman GT4 can reach 304 km/h.
In terms of acceleration, both models accelerate to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds from a standing start.
On the exterior, the 718 Cayman GT4 features a comprehensively improved aero kit, producing up to 50 per cent more downforce than the outgoing Cayman GT4 without adversely affecting drag.
The front section, which is optimised in the GT style, also maintains the aerodynamic balance with a large front spoiler lip and so-called air curtains.
The 718 Spyder on the other hand, comes with a removable roof that is suitable for everyday use and can be stowed away under the boot lid in just a few steps.
Unlike the GT4, the 718 Spyder has a rear spoiler that comes up automatically at 120 km/h. Thanks to the functional diffuser, it is the first model in the Boxster family to generate aerodynamic downforce at the rear axle.
For the first time ever, the 718 Spyder also benefits from the high-performance GT chassis of the 718 Cayman GT4.
Damping for both cars is taken care by a set of high-performance GT Suspension, complemented by the Porsche Active Suspension Management, Porsche Stability Management (PSM), as well as Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) with a mechanical rear differential lock which further enhances the longitudinal and lateral dynamics, cornering performance, and driving pleasure.
The GT4 also comes with the option of a Clubsport package. This includes a rear steel roll bar, a hand-held fire extinguisher and a six-point seatbelt on the driver’s side.


2,000,000th Land Rover Defender Celebrated With Specially-Made Model

Think of any off-road vehicle and the
Land Rover Defender
 springs into mind. The go anywhere do anything vehicle has been an icon for many years, with its services employed worldwide from military outfits to humanitarian relief efforts.
In celebration of the 67 years of
Land Rover
 production, Jaguar Land Rover has commissioned a bespoke, one-of-a-kind 2,000,000
th
 Defender with the invitation of special guests to be part of the production process as a tribute to nearly seven decades of Land Rover production in the Solihull plant, situated in the United Kingdom.
Part of this ensemble production stars include star of the Man vs. Wild television show and adventurer, Bear Grylls, sons of Land Rover founders Maurice and Spencer Wilks, and Tim Slessor, crew member of the first Overland Expedition in 1955.
To stand out as the two millionth Defender, the vehicle features a map of Red Wharf Bay – where the design for the original Land Rover was first drawn, is engraved into the aluminium fender. A unique 'No. 2,000,000' badge sits on the rear of the vehicle while the rest of the exterior receives an Indus Silver satin paint and finished with Santorini Black wheels and wheel arches, roof, door hinges, grille and mirror caps. S90 HUE registration plates, which is a reference to the first ever pre-production Land Rover, registration 'HUE 166', complete the overall look.
Inside, the interior console features the same badging as well with the ‘Red Wharf Bay’ graphic on the leather seats and ‘No. 2,000,000’ stitched on the headrests. Those who had their hand in assembling the unique Defender also signed an aluminium plaque which is prominently displayed on the driver’s seat plinth.

Scheduled to be on display at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed, Defender 2,000,000 will later be auctioned off at the Bonhams auction house in New Bond Street, London on 16 December, with proceeds going towards the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and the Born Free Foundation.


KBS: Sabri's RM 20 million allocation for drag circuits were never approved

The Ministry of Youth and Sports has announced that there never was an allocated sum put aside for the statewide drag racing track.

This follows the comments made by former Prime Minister Datuk Ismail Sabri Yaacob, who was
disappointed after the government announced that they would not be proceeding
with plans to develop drag racing circuits in each state.

He said that the previous (his) government had already allocated RM20 million for this project and that the current administration should proceed with it.

Apparently, the allocation of RM20 million announced by him through the 2023 Budget was never debated in Parliament and not approved, according to a statement released by The Youth and Sports Ministry (KBS).

“In addition, the budget was announced without receiving data and feedback from KBS. RM20 million is insufficient for the construction of a drag racing track in every state."

"KBS is very concerned about the people’s safety and does not want to build a track for the sake of just getting it done. There is no doubt that it is a good platform (for youths to take part in) motorsports, but the safety of racers, spectators and all involved must be given priority,” read the statement.

KBS however wanted to ensure that they are working on a solution for this issue, as they are trying to find ways to ensure that motorsports events can continue to
be held in a controlled and safe environment.

“Among the efforts carried out are projects to upgrade and improve existing facilities under KBS, such as the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) and the Tangkak Racing Track in Johor."

“KBS is also working with the Motorsport Association of Malaysia (MAM) to ensure that operators and organisers of motorsport events can carry out their programmes at homologated circuits and by providing minimum specifications for temporary circuits,” it said.

The statement also said that KBS, through the National Youth and Sports Department (JBSN), with the
support of MAM
, is actively developing guidelines for motorsports, including drag racing, in an effort to create a safe and conducive environment.


2023 Perodua Axia (D74A) now open for booking! Estimated price RM38k-RM49k

Perodua has finally announced that the all-new
2023 Perodua Axia
 is now open for booking.

Months of speculation about the new D74A 2023 Perodua Axia have gone by and based on what we can get from the official teaser brochure, it's a whole of upgrades and enhancements from the previous gen.

Estimated price from RM38k-RM49k

For pricing, we're looking at somewhere between RM38k to RM49k for the D74A 2023 Perodua Axia, which comes in four different variants - G, X, SE, and the range-topping AV.

The Axia G starts things off with an estimated price tag of RM38,600 followed by the Axia X at RM40,000, Axia SE at RM44,000, and Axia AV at RM49,500. The 15% price hike offers a more enhanced version of the Perodua Axia without taking everyone by surprise.

Same engine, different gearbox

The 2023 Perodua will be powered by a 1.0-litre EEV engine with a D-CVT gearbox for all four variants. In other words, we strongly believe that the 1KR-VE 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine has been maintained. Sorry fellas, no 'tekan-tekan preggy' with the new Axia.

However, the transmission has been significantly changed to the new D-CVT gearbox just like the one found in the Perodua Ativa launched back in 2021. No more four-speed automatic with the Axia, and the mileage can go as far as 25.3km/l for the G and X, while the SE and AV stretch it to 27.4km/l with the 'ECO Idle' system.

Perodua Smart Drive Assist for all variants?

The new 2023 Perodua Axia will also feature the Perodua Smart Drive Assist which comes with:

Six airbags

ABS with EBD & BA

Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)

Hill-start Assist (HSA)

Traction Control (TRC)

Solar & Security Window Film (SE & AV variants)

Other features include LED headlamps with DRLs (LED lights for X, SE, and AV while the DRLs are only available on the SE and AV variants, halogens for the base G), and a bunch more that can be seen in the picture above.

Perhaps the biggest flex comes for the range-topping Axia AV model that comes with semi-leather semi-bucket seats, 7-inch TFT multi-info display, 9-inch display audio, and more.

For those who are interested to book your very own D74A 2023 Perodua Axia, there are five different colour options to choose from - Granite Grey, Lava Red, Glittering Silver, Ivory White, and the latest addition to the team, Coral Blue.

AND one more thing, For those who booked the previous-generation Perodua Axia prior to the end of the sales tax exemption last year but you're still in queue to get the car, you have the option to change to the new D74A Axia now and still enjoy that tax rebate. Lucky!


Pennzoil Bids Farewell to the Dodge Viper with Insane Video

In case you haven’t heard, the iconic Dodge Viper’s production has been ceased.
To the shock of muscle car fans all over the world, the company announced earlier this year that the car had effectively “run out of good reasons to live” after close to three decades of production.
All set to be succeeded by the Dodge Demon which made its debut recently, the Viper was made popular in many parts of the world by the 90s TV show titled “Viper” (duh) where the car can change colour and do all sorts of cool stuff like help its owner kick some bad guys’ butts.
So, in order to pay its tribute to the iconic Viper and to make sure that the car leaves with a bang and remains immortal, Dodge’s longtime partner Pennzoil teamed up with renowned American creative agency JWT Atlanta and stunt driver Rhys Millen to come up with a farewell-cum-promo video so epic that it makes Ken Block’s Gymkhana series look like child’s play.
What happens in the video is that a Dodge Viper ACR, which just happens to be the last Viper out there, gets stolen. A mysterious “driver for hire” then finds it, drives the piss out of it, and returns it in a very cool manner.
In case you’re wondering how powerful this thing is, the ACR Viper is powered by an 8.4-litre V10 engine which kicks out 645hp and 813Nm of torque. Here’s the best part – it’s a manual.
As simple as the plot may sound, the video, which is said to have almost no CGI as far as the driving is concerned, sees Millen pulling J-turns, powerslides, drifts, and even clocking some airtime in the Viper.
That being said, let us observe a moment of silence and join Pennzoil in saying goodbye to the Viper; one of the most iconic muscle cars of our time.


Banting Star Opens First Honda 3S Centre In Banting, Selangor

Honda Malaysia today officially opened its latest Honda 3S Centre in the Central region. Located in the fast-developing area of Banting, the 3S Centre by Banting Star Sdn. Bhd. (Banting Star) is the first Honda 3S Centre in the area. The opening of this new 3S Centre is in line with the company’s focus to provide more convenience to customers beyond urban areas.
The opening of Banting Star Honda 3S Centre is also timely to support the increased after-sales intake, which resulted from Honda’s escalated sales in the past few years. In the period from January to March 2018, the total service intake in Central region stood at more than 148,100 units, a 10 per cent increase compared to the same period last year.
During the same period, Honda recorded a stable sales performance with 24,182 units sold. This result has maintained Honda’s position as the No.1 car brand in Non-National segment and No. 2 in the overall TIV, behind Perodua. Honda City is the most popular model in the state of Selangor during this period.
Banting Star Sdn. Bhd. has invested RM15 million into the development of 23,250 square feet facility along Jalan Klang Banting, Telok Panglima Garang, Selangor. Its professional technicians and latest equipment are capable of handling up to 44 cars per day.
At the workshop section, a total 16 work bays consists of 11 service bays, three bays for general repairs and two tyre service bays.  A comfortable Customer Lounge greets owners and customers, together with an Executive Lounge, Kid’s Corner, a Surau as well as a variety of food and beverages. In addition, Banting Star 3S also offers road tax renewal and insurance coverage for its customers.
In the effort to heighten customer satisfaction this year
, the company has introduced express dealerships to widen after-sales service support by offering fast service within 90 minutes. Honda is also ensuring that all its technicians are well trained in order to deliver consistently high quality service for customers.
Sample of smartphone application from a Honda distributor in Indonesia
Speaking at the launch event, Mr. Toichi Ishiyama, MD and CEO of Honda Malaysia also mentioned that Honda Malaysia will be introducing an online platform for after-sales service to provide better convenience to owners. Set to go live later this year, the Customer’s Virtual Touchpoint portal can provide service appointment bookings, vehicle progress status tracking, service history, and product updates.
With the opening of Banting Star 3S Centre, Honda Malaysia now has 96 dealers nationwide, consisting of 85 3S dealers, three 1S dealers and the balance are 2S dealers. There are 19 body and paint centres (BP) that professionally provide restoration work of Honda vehicles post-collision.
Honda Malaysia plans to have a total of 100 dealerships by the end of 2018.


This is the way PMX! - Touch 'n Go monopoly to be looked at

Our current Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim, wants to reconsider Touch 'n Go's monopoly.

Most of us, including Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, realise that Touch 'n Go virtually has the market to itself, which is why PMX hinted that he would reconsider the Touch 'n Go monopoly, especially when the toll system is
not showing any convincing progress
.

Answering a question at the "Meet Anwar" dialogue session, on whether the government has any plans to revisit Touch 'n Go, Anwar said: "I think you are right. We will consider it again," he said.

We can't blame Anwar's sentiment, especially when other countries such as Indonesia and Singapore have implemented more efficient toll systems in the last half-decade, while highway users in Malaysia still have to face miserable queues when the toll system in our country fails to work.

Picture credit: Mekanika

The most recent example was the nightmare traffic jam at the Bentong toll, as road users did not move for an hour because the Touch 'n Go payment system was broken.

For the longest of time, Malaysians have been wishing for a better toll system, and it can only get better if Touch 'n Go has some competition as it can give them a genuine effort to be better or else get left behind by the competitor.


Akio Takeyama Is Going To Race A Wing Hin-Prepared Vios In The Sepang 1000 km Endurance Race

For most people, a couple of hours at Sepang at a weekend track day is more than enough. That usually entails a couple of hot laps with plenty of breaks in between, to let both car and driver cool off. That's a stark difference to what racecar drivers subject themselves to during sprint races, let alone endurance races of varying duration.

The Sepang 1000 km (S1K) race, as the name suggests, is an annual 1000 kilometer endurance race that takes place at Sepang International Circuit. That translates to roughly 180 laps, and at race pace this is well over eight hours of straight competition. This year will see Akio Takeyama - known more for being the Deputy Chairman of UMW Toyota Motor - entering the field, competing in the MTC class for production cars under 1,600 cc in a Wing Hin-prepared Toyota Vios.

For those unfamiliar, Takeyama also competes in the Toyota Gazoo Racing Vios Challenge street race that takes place in various ad-hoc race circuits around the country - which means he does have at least two years of competition experience under his belt with the Toyota Vios.

That being said, the car prepared by Wing Hin is a different animal entirely as it packs an engine that's been tuned by Toyota Racing Development, allowing it to develop more power than the close-to-stock powertrains run in the Vios Challenge. It isn't the first time Wing Hin has entered either, with Boy Wong and William Ho taking a podium in the 2018 running of the S1K.

With the data collected from that race, Wing Hin and TRD were better able to optimize their entries for this year and really dial the car in for the purposes of sprint and endurance racing outside the confines of the Vios Challenge. It's good to see an alternative to the regular hatchback entrants, and it shows that Toyota still has commitment to racing programs across their range.

Joining Takayema as a codriver will be Akira Iida, a Japanese Touring Car legend with six Le Mans 24-hour race finishes under his belt, as well as Vios Challenge racer William Ho. Another Wing Hin prepared Vios will be driven by Boy Wong and Dannies Ng.

The S1K will be running this weekend, with qualifying taking place on Friday and the actual race kicking off from around noon on Sunday, the 23rd of November.


One Ford Dealer In Arizona Is Personally Teaching Customers About Their Cars

With the sheer number of features that cars come equipped with these days, it's no surprise that many customers can feel a little overwhelmed in trying to learn how everything works; the result is a lot of these features may end up going unused as customers either don't know they're there, or simply can't be bothered to use them. While this problem is becoming less of an issue with things like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay providing seamless integration between smart devices and cars, there are still a number of customers who never even touch features like autonomous parking.
Two years ago, a JD Power survey showed that twenty percent of new car buyers don't use a significant number of features their cars come equipped with, and what they found is that the first thirty days of an owner's experience with a car determines whether they want to use in-car features or not. But one Ford dealer in Phoenix, Arizona is taking it upon themselves to fix this- even if it means going to their customers' driveways personally and spending time with them to explain everything clearly.
It's called the Start Team, and it comprises of four dedicated individuals that travel directly to customers' homes at their convenience in order to show them how all of the features in their new purchases work. The Start Team at Sanderson ensures there is always at least one member in the office or in the field, to meet customer demand and members even travel statewide to provide at-home, hands-on training.
Max Sirstins, Sanderson’s marketing director, said demand for the Start Team grows in the weeks and months after the customer has purchased the vehicle. Data shows if a customer doesn’t learn to use a technology within the first thirty days of having their new vehicle, odds are that technology will go unused. “If our customers are willing to drive to us to purchase a new Ford,” said Sirstins, “we’ll drive to them to help them enjoy it more.”
It's only a matter of time before our local offerings will reach a level where most customers may not be able to figure out how certain systems work. Case in point is the
all-new Perodua Myvi
 which already comes loaded with a huge number of features in the top spec 1.5AV variant. Granted, a lot of these features are autonomous- but you can almost guarantee that customers will need proper training to understand how these features work in their entirety.


CNY: 6 Travel Tips Before Your Long Journey Ahead

Your leave application has been approved, you’ve tidied up your work, told the newspaper delivery guy that you won’t be coming back for a few days, and have mapped out your route for that drive (assuming you are) back to the hometown.
It’s that time of year again, the Chinese New Year holidays! That means the annual gathering of friends and relatives as we feast on delicious festive cookies and hand out ‘ang pows’. But wait a minute, have you equipped yourself and your car properly for the trip?
Making sure you are prepared for that long drive ahead could be the difference between spending the day enjoying some delicious ‘kuih kapit’ and spending it on the side of the road as you await for some assistance. So, before you set out on that balik kampung trip, why not spend a few minutes to go through our check-list and have a pleasant journey ahead.
Have you properly serviced your vehicle?
Making sure the car you’re driving is capable of making the journey back is important. So get that check-up or quick service/ multi-point check at your car maker’s authorised service centres – if you time it right, many car companies will be giving them out for FREE even.
There are also basic inspections that you can undertake yourself at home, such as:
Tyres –
 Ensure they are not worn and torn. Look out for cracks and use a 20 sen coin to measure thread depth. Remember the old trick of: If you can see the word ‘sen on the coin, they’re probably worn. Also, make sure they are properly inflated. You can refer to the proper inflation figures when you open the driver’s side door where a notice is pasted on.
Engine oil –
 When you open your hood, check the dip stick to make sure your engine oil level is well within the suited range. A properly lubricated engine will save your from a hefty repair bill caused by your extended drive home and back.
Radiator fluid
 – Only do this when the engine is cold. Open the radiator and check that the coolant level is appropriate. Next, check the plastic coolant reservoir beside it and make sure that is within the indicated level markings too. Also, use a proper coolant-to-water ratio mixture. Plain water alone isn’t a very good coolant as it evaporates quickly.
Headlights and taillights –
 In our country where sudden rainfall is expected, your headlights light the way ahead whereas your taillights indicate to the driver behind you of your location. So make sure they’re in full working condition.
Brakes –
 Very important for stopping, make sure that the brake pads aren’t worn out and if they are, have them replaced. You wouldn’t want to be in a situation where your brakes don’t stop you well enough.

Planning The Route Beforehand
We live in the age of smartphones where satellite navigation is at our fingertips, but you should also make a point to do a little homework in planning for a route that is the quickest and safest. Apps such as Google Maps and Waze have their limits, so unless you’ve invested in a navigation system that isn’t dependant on mobile data connnectivity constantly, plan ahead following the
travel time advisory provided by PLUS
.
As a cheat sheet for Android users, there is an offline option in the form of
Nokia’s HERE app
, which allows you download offline maps into your smartphone after registering for an account.

Emergency Kit
Unwanted incidents can happen anywhere and at any time. It pays to have a few these basic items in your vehicle to tackle such situations:
Jumpstart cables
 – This may have happened to you before. In any case, a pair of jumper cables will come in handy when asking others to help give your car a little electrical boost to get going.
Flashlight –
 Your phone might come with one but a dedicated one is easier to manage and less expensive to replace if it slips out of your hand while you’re using it, right?
Screwdriver –
 Get a multi-head one for that one-size-fits-all situation. Phillips head, flat head? Be prepared for any with the proper screwdriver.
Adjustable Wrench –
 To manage nuts and bolts of various sizes, it’s best to have on board an adjustable wrench that can handle them all.
First-Aid Kit –
 Some cars come equipped with them, where inside, you’ll find all kinds of band aids and things. If your car hasn’t got one, get one. Or compile your own list of items inside an air-tight container. If you already have one, remember to check if it’s needs restocking.

FOOD!
Your car needs petrol (or diesel) to get a move on, but the driver behind the wheel of it needs their own fuel as well. Pack a few bottles of water in your car to keep your hydration levels up and a few snacks to keep your energy up. If your journey is for longer than two hours and you don’t have a co-driver, take a break or a nap at a R&R before continuing on your journey.

Always plan to have a co-driver with you
Taking on a long journey alone can be quite boring, let alone tiring, when you do it alone. Always plan your trips to include a co-driver with your at all times. Bring your friends or family. And even if they can’t drive, the company will do your spirits a world of good.

Equip yourself with the right tech
Touch n’ Go –
 Skip the cash lane with the electronic toll payment option. Just make sure that it has enough credit in it. Go further by not even needing to wind down your windows with a Smart Tag instead. Just make sure that the batteries still work in it.
Bluetooth –
 Your car may or may not come with this form of connectivity for your mobile phone but if it doesn’t, pick one up at your local tech shop. While you’re there, avoid fumbling to reach for your phone while driving by purchasing a windscreen mount for your phone as well. It can double as a navigation display unit. Bascially, holding onto your smartphone..


Apa Beza PKP & PKPD: Pelaksanaan PKPD (EMCO) Di Selangor dan Kuala Lumpur

Kerajaan telah melaksanakan Perintah Kawalan Pergerakan Diperketatkan (PKPD/EMCO) di mukim-mukim di Selangor dan beberapa lokaliti di Kuala Lumpur selama 14 hari bermula 3 hingga 16 Julai. Jadi dengan pengumuman PKPD ini, telah berlaku beberapa isu kekeliruan SOP antara EMCO dan MCO.

Sebelum ini, kerajaan telah melaksanakan
Perintah Kawalan Pergerakan (PKP)
 di seluruh negara. Tetapi, kini beberapa kawasan di Selangor dan KL pula dikenakan PKPD. Ada beza ke PKPD dengan PKP ni? Sebelum kita pergi lebih lanjut dengan topik kita kali ini, sila semak dahulu sama ada anda berada dalam kawasan atau mukim yang terlibat dengan PKPD atau tidak.

Mukim-mukim yang terlibat di Selangor adalah seperti berikut:

Daerah Petaling

Mukim:

Petaling

Damansara

Sg Buloh

Bukit Raja

Daerah Hulu Langat

Mukim:

Hulu Langat

Ampang

Cheras

Kajang

Semenyih

Beranang

Daerah Sepang

Mukim:

Dengkil

Labu

Sepang

Daerah Gombak

Mukim:

Batu

Rawang

Setapak

Hulu kelang

Kuang

Daerah Kuala Langat

Mukim:

Tanjung 12 (1)

Tanjung 12 (2)

Teluk Panglima Garang

Morib

Bandar

Jugra

Batu

Daerah Klang

Mukim:

Kapar

Klang

Daerah Kuala Selangor

Mukim:

Ijok

Bestari Jaya

Jeram

Daerah Hulu Selangor

Mukim:

Serendah

Rasa

Ulu Yam

Batang Kali

Penguatkuasaan PKPD di Kuala Lumpur pula melibatkan lokaliti seperti berikut:

Projek Perumahan Rakyat (PPR) Sri Semarak

Projek Perumahan Rakyat (PPR) Batu Muda

Flat Seksyen 2 Wangsa Maju

Flat Seksyen 1 Wangsa Maju

Kampung Padang Balang

Taman Koperasi Polis (Fasa 1 & 2)

Flat Sri Sabah

Kampung Puah

Projek Perumahan Rakyat (PPR) Kampung Baru Air Panas

Flat Desa Pandan (termasuk Baiduri & Delima)

Kampung Batu Muda

Projek Perumahan Rakyat (PPR) Kerinchi

Bandar Baru Sentul

Taman Ikan Emas

Sekiranya anda daripada salah satu kawasan yang dinyatakan di atas, pasti ada yang risau untuk duduk rumah sambil dikelilingi kawat berduri. Tetapi, berdasarkan laporan Bernama, terdapat perbezaan SOP antara mukim yang dikenakan PKPD di Selangor dan Kuala Lumpur.

Ketua Polis Kuala Lumpur, Datuk Azmi Abu Kassim berkata PKPD di Kuala Lumpur adalah bersandarkan kepada lokaliti berbanding mengikut mukim di Selangor. Tambah beliau, tiada pemasangan kawat besi di Selangor, tetapi tumpuan diberikan dengan mempertingkatkan
Sekatan Jalan Raya (SJR)
. Di KL pula, jumlah SJR sedia ada akan dikekalkan tetapi lokaliti kawasan terbabit dipasang kawat berduri.

Sekiranya anda menetap di kawasan PKPD, anda perlu mengikut SOP PKPD yang dikeluarkan oleh MKN. Berdasarkan Menteri Kanan Pertahanan Ismail Sabri Yaakob, berikut merupakan beberapa ketetapan berkaitan Perintah Kawalan Pergerakan Diperketatkan (PKPD) di beberapa mukim dan lokaliti di Selangor dan Kuala Lumpur:

Semua laluan kawasan PKPD akan ditutup dan dikawal oleh PDRM.

Semua penduduk dalam kawasan PKPD tidak dibenarkan keluar dari kediaman masing-masing kecuali seorang sahaja wakil isi rumah, hanya untuk keluar membeli keperluan asas di kawasan PKPD dalam radius 10 kilometer dari kediaman.

KKM akan melaksanakan ujian saringan secara bersasar terhadap semua penduduk di kawasan terlibat.

Pergerakan rentas daerah dan negeri bagi tujuan vaksinasi Covid-19 di Pusat Pemberian Vaksin (PPV) di luar daerah atau negeri tempat tinggal dibenarkan dengan menunjukkan butiran temu janji di MySejahtera, laman sesawang atau SMS.

Lapangan terbang dan pelabuhan dibenarkan beroperasi seperti biasa.

Aktiviti dan perkhidmatan pengangkutan awam (kereta api, komuter, bas, lapangan terbang, teksi, feri, e-hailing) dibenarkan beroperasi seperti biasa dengan kapasiti 50%.

Bilangan penumpang dalam teksi dan kenderaan e-hailing dihadkan 2 orang sahaja termasuk pemandu.

Tiada sebarang pergerakan tidak perlu di luar kawasan kediaman selepas jam 8 malam kecuali bagi kes-kes kecemasan atau mendapat kebenaran polis.

Hanya sektor perkhidmatan perlu dibenarkan untuk beroperasi dari 8 pagi hingga 8 malam seperti utiliti, pembersihan dan kumbahan.

Kilang bahan makanan dan keperluan asas harian seperti beras, roti putih , gula, minyak masak, tepung gandum, susu segar, susu tepung bayi, ubat-ubatan, dan topeng muka dibenarkan beroperasi.

Kebenaran untuk bekerja hanya bagi perkhidmatan perlu atau menjalankan tugas rasmi kerajaan dengan surat pengesahan daripada majikan atau pas pekerja yang sah.

Pekerja selain daripada perkhidmatan perlu tidak dibenarkan keluar dari kawasan PKPD dan tidak boleh bekerja sepanjang tempoh PKPD. Majikan dikehendaki mematuhi perintah ini dan membenarkan pekerja bekerja dari rumah.

Pekerja daripada perkhidmatan perlu dan kilang-kilang serta premis perniagaan yang dibenarkan sahaja boleh menggunakan surat MITI yang telah dikeluarkan sebelum ini.

Restoran, kedai/ gerai makan, kenderaan bersaji (food truck), penjaja tepi jalan, penjaja beredar, medan selera/ pusat penjaja, gerai makan tepi jalan/ kiosk dibenarkan beroperasi antara 8 pagi hingga 8 malam.

Pembelian makanan secara bawa pulang, pandu lalu atau penghantaran sahaja dibenarkan.

Kedai runcit, kedai serbaneka, kedai barangan keperluan harian dibenarkan beroperasi antara 8 pagi hingga 8 malam.

Hospital, klinik dan makmal perubatan dibenarkan beroperasi sehingga 24 jam atau mengikut lesen kebenaran.

Kedai farmasi, kedai penjualan ubat-ubatan, klinik haiwan dan kedai makanan haiwan dibenarkan beroperasi antara 8 pagi hingga 8 malam.

Stesen minyak dibenarkan beroperasi antara 6 pagi hingga 8 malam kecuali stesen minyak di lebuh raya bertol beroperasi sehingga 24 jam.

Pasar borong dibenarkan beroperasi bermula 12 tengah malam hingga 6 pagi.

Pasar awam, Pasar Tani Kekal (PTK) dan MyFarm Outlet (MFO) dibenarkan beroperasi bermula 6 pagi hingga 2 petang.

Sebarang aktiviti sukan, sosial, rekreasi dan budaya adalah tidak dibenarkan.

Sebelum ini, bengkel kereta, perniagaan alat ganti serta kedai tayar
dibenarkan untuk beroperasi
 dengan SOP yang ketat. Ekoran pelaksaan PKPD di beberapa kawasan di KL dan Selangor, pusat servis, bengkel kereta mahupun kedai tayar kini
tidak lagi dibenarkan beroperasi di dalam kawasan PKPD.

Kebenaran dan SOP yang dinyatakan di atas merupakan sebahagian daripada SOP penuh yang dikeluarkan oleh MKN. Untuk maklumat lanjut tentang SOP penuh bagi pelaksanaan PKPD di mukim-mukim di negeri Selangor dan lokaliti-lokaliti di WP Kuala Lumpur, anda boleh rujuk di laman sesawang MKN di
https://www.mkn.gov.my

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.

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Volkswagen Offers RM2,000 Rebate For The Golf GTI And Golf R

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) today announced that it is giving exclusive RM2,000 rebates for the Golf GTI and Golf R.
Powering the Golf GTI is a 2.0-litre TSI turbocharged engine paired with a 6-speed wet clutch direct shift gearbox (DSG), producing 230 PS and 350 Nm of torque.
Apart from its honeycomb trimmings, the Golf GTI comes with GTI ‘Vienna’ perforated leather seats, 18” Milton Keynes alloy wheels, 12.3” Active Info Display, 8” Discover Media with App-Connect, LED headlights with Dynamic Cornering Lights, LED taillights with Dynamic Indicators.
The driving experience is further enhanced with Adaptive Chassis Control (DCC) and driving mode selection.
The Golf R on the other hand, makes 290 PS and 380 Nm of torque, thanks to a 2.0-litre TSI turbocharged engine that is mated to a 7-speed wet clutch direct shift gearbox (DSG), which gives it the ability to go from 0 to 100km/h in 5.1 seconds.
Further complementing the powertrain package is the 4MOTION all-wheel drive system, and other features like the R ‘Vienna’ perforated leather seats, and 19” Pretoria alloy wheels.
Inside, the car comes with a 12.3” Active Info Display, 9.2” Discover Pro with App-Connect and Gesture Control, LED headlights with Dynamic Cornering Lights, LED taillights with Dynamic Indicators, and progressive steering.
In addition to this, VPCM is also offering rebates on other Volkswagen models, as listed below:
Apart from the Tiguan and the Passat, other Volkswagen models come with 3 years free maintenance, and all models come with 5 years unlimited mileage warranty and 5 years roadside assistance.
Aftersales offerings
Walnut Blasting
Gently remove carbon build up in your engine valves with the new Walnut Blasting Decarbonizer for a smoother drive. Using walnut shells to gently remove carbon debris, the Walnut Blasting Decarbonizer is an economical and non-corrosive method that cleans build ups to prevent engine restrictions, loss of power, overheating and higher fuel consumption. This service is available at all authorized dealerships from as low as RM515.
VIP
The Volkswagen Insurance Plan (VIP) is an insurance programme offering comprehensive coverage with minimal hassle to Volkswagen owners. Enjoy prioritised claim approval, roadside assistance with 24-hour emergency towing, and assurance that repair work is conducted at authorised Volkswagen body and paint centres, in accordance to Volkswagen repair standards with only genuine parts used. VIP can be purchased at all authorized dealerships.
Ongoing Aftersales promotions
Liquid Power Kit
Always handy to have these items around, for a limited time only purchase the Liquid Power Kit at a special price of RM199 at all authorized dealerships. The kit comprises of a 1-litre bottle engine oil, 1-litre windscreen cleaner and 200ml fuel additive. Offer available while stocks last.
Shock Absorbers
Existing owners can enjoy a complimentary check at Volkswagen service centres, while those who are due for an absorber change will receive additional 20% discount off the retail price. This discount is applicable on genuine Volkswagen shock absorbers and coil springs.
Tyres
As part of the ongoing tyre promotion which has been extended till the end of the year, enjoy low high-quality durable tyres from as low as RM184 and benefits such as free installation, alignment and balancing depending on the different tyre packages.
Battery
Those in need of a battery change will receive 20% discount off new batteries starting from RM365 (depending on model), under the ongoing battery promotion, which has also been extended till the end of the year.
Looking for a new Volkswagen? Get the best deals
here
.


Leaked: Is This The All-New 2017 BMW 5 Series (G30)?

Ahead of its officially-confirmed launch tomorrow, images have surfaced on the threads of
GermanCarForums.com
 which might well be leaked pictures the all-new 2017 BMW 5 Series.
A total of four images show the all-new 5 Series, codenamed G30, from the dead rear, front and rear three quarter angles plus a cabin shot.
Overall appearance of the vehicle shows a clear family resemblance to the current
G11 and G12 7 Series
. The car in the pictures appears dressed with an M Sport package inside out and wears a badge that reads 540i.
BMW’s all-new
B-series modular engine family
 is expected to power the G30, with the 540i shown here likely to feature the B58 3.0-litre straight-six petrol powerplant. In the
F30 340i
, this engine makes 321hp and 450Nm.
Of greater importance to our market will be variants powered by the 2.0-litre B48 petrol four-pot that we already get in the F30 3 Series and G12 7 Series. We are anticipating a 184hp version powering the 520i, a 231hp setup in the 525i, and a 252hp configuration in the 530i.
Expect also a strong line-up of diesel engines mirroring the petrol family’s 2.0-litre four-cylinder and 3.0-litre six-cylinder setup.
A plug-in hybrid variant should feature in the agenda too, though the question is whether BMW will be using the newer B48-based petrol-electric hybrid architecture as seen in the
330e
 or the older but more powerful N20-based setup used in the
X5 xDrive40e
. That means either a 252hp 530e or a 313hp 540e, or even both.
We will know for sure what the all-new 2016 BMW 5 Series will have to offer by tomorrow, so stay tuned. In the meantime, follow the links below to read what we already know about the all-new G30:
2017 BMW 5 Series (G30) To Put Remote 3D View Into Your Phone
2017 G30 BMW 5 Series: What We Think We Know (Updated)
BMW G30 5 Series: What It Will Probably Look Like
BMW Group Prepares Dingolfing Plant for G30 Production, Magna Steyr to Supplement Production
BMW 5 Series G30 US Ordering Guide Has Been Leaked
Video: BMW 5 Series (G30) Shows Off Autonomous Driving Systems; Teases Interior


2015 Audi A3 Carbon Edition Confirmed For Malaysia: Limited To 30 Units, From RM195k

Just as
we spotted it on Audi Malaysia’s website
 nearly a week ago, here it is, officially confirmed. The 2015 Audi A3 is now available as a special Carbon Edition variant, which will be limited to just 30 units.
Effectively a 1.4 TFSI model, the Audi A3 Carbon Edition is equipped with specially-selected Audi Genuine Accessories, just like we showed you. The powertrain is left completely untouched, meaning the 1.4-litre turbocharged engine paired with the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (S tronic) will continue to develop 125hp and 200Nm of torque.
Prices for the special unit start from
 RM194,333 (OTR without insurance)
, and you can place your bookings or check out the Carbon Edition model at all Audi showrooms nationwide.
The exterior and interior upgrades are just as we told you before, featuring:
Front spoiler, glossy black
Audi exclusive black styling package
Tailgate spoiler, carbon
5-arm rotor design wheels, black matt, 18 (upgrade from standard 17-inch alloys)
Front spoiler, rear apron, side sills in glossy black
Comfort key
Exterior mirror housings, carbon
Front + rear parking aid
Side sills, glossy black
One item we did miss back when we first scoop this news, was that the A3 Carbon Edition would also gain an individually numbered stainless steel plaque on the centre console, underlining its coveted status and innate rarity.
Last, but certainly not least, the Audi A3 Carbon Edition comes equipped with an MMI® radio with MMI® control panel features a 5.8” colour display along with a 10 loudspeaker Audi sound system.
The A3 Carbon Edition will also only be available in Glacier White body colour, maintaining the special model’s strong contract of black on white.


The Facelift Proton X70 Will Come With A New Engine - Expected To Be Launched In August 2022

It's pretty widely known that most cars will go through a midlife update after being in the market for a couple of years, so it's no surprise to see that the Proton X70 will be getting one after debuting in 2018.

Called the Proton X70 MC1 (MC stands for Minor Change), the facelifted SUV is expected to be
launched in August
 next year. According to sources, the Proton SUV will come with some noticeable exterior changes, but the most significant change of them all will happen underneath the bonnet.

Among the exciting rumours for the X70 facelift includes a change of its engine where the 1.8L TGDI engine on the current Proton X70 will be replaced with a
1.5L TGDI
 engine found on the Proton X50 Flagship.

Engine

                PS

                 Torque (Nm)

1.5L TGDI

177

255

1.8L TGDI

184

300

If we make a straight-up comparison between the two engines in their current state, of course, it would seem like a downgrade as the performance is lower, but we're pretty sure that Proton has something up its sleeve to give it a bit more grunt. The 1.5L TGDI has a maximum output of 179PS and 265Nm of torque according to Geely's website.

Currently, both the
Proton X70
 and Proton X50 engines are imported from China. However, Proton is reportedly in the midst of producing the 1.5L TGDI engine at their factory in Tanjung Malim. This TGDI engine will also apparently be the base engine for
future Proton models
.

If this is true, Proton can save on production costs if all its vehicles use the same engine. Not only will they save money, but time as well, so that buyers no longer have to
wait up to a year
 to get their car! This could be the perfect opportunity for Proton to try and regain the support of the people who are beginning to lose patience.

While the Proton X70 MC1's exterior details are still a mystery, we can't help but expect it to look like the Geely Boyue Pro available in the Chinese market. The Geely Boyue Pro is the
latest version
 of the Geely Boyue which now features a mildly redesigned exterior, featuring a more prominent front grille flanked by a pair of LED headlights. Right smack in the centre of the grille is Geely’s black emblem, usually reserved for their range of sportier models. The front bumper is also new, now more angular than before.

Moving towards the rear end, the Boyue Pro gets new LED taillights and an updated rear bumper. The spoiler and 19-inch wheels have also been updated, giving the Boyue Pro a fresh new look.

Geely has also improved the interior of the Boyue Pro as shown in the photo above. The Boyue Pro gets a completely redesigned dashboard with a larger touchscreen head unit with a new rotary dial controller, new air-conditioning controls, a revised steering wheel, and a new gear shifter. The design of the front air vents is also new. In addition to all of those, the new Boyue Pro also appears to get ambient lighting.

Stay tuned as we bring you more updates as we find out more about the Proton X70 MC1 coming in 2022!


Toyota To Use Open-Source Software For Future Models

The upcoming 2018 Toyota Camry that will go on sale in North America will feature a Linux-based, open source software. The infotainment system on the Camry will be Toyota's first-ever model to run on Linux.
Called Automotive Grade Linux (AGL), the new platform is a collaboration work between several car manufacturers, including Toyota, Mazda, Suzuki, Daimler and Ford. The aim is to create an industry standard for connected vehicles.
AGL can also be the basis for advanced driving technologies, such as automonous driving and connected cars.
While the move to Automotive Grade Linux can speed up development lead times plus standardizing interfaces, this can come at a cost, as connected vehicles can be vulnerable to hackers with malicious intend. Most car manufacturers wouldd turn a blind eye, as they are reluctant to share customer data with corporations such as Google.
Kenichi Murata,group manager of Connected Strategy and Planning at Toyota told Reuters "It's very necessary to reduce the overhead of duplication work among our suppliers so they can spend more time to create new things rather than maintaining fragmentary codes." Similar to an operating system such as Windows 10, a car also has several million lines of codes for it to function correctly. Unlike coding a mobile application which usually takes a couple of months, coding for vehicles takes up considerably more time, upwards several years.
Currently, most car manufacturers offer both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. These two interfaces aren't the suitable for car manufacturers, seeing that car manufacturers want more control over the infotainment system, as opposed to adhering what companies such as Google or Apple have to offer. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is also rather restrictive when it comes to usability and functionality, as these systems are not designed to hook up to the car's OBD-II diagnostic system or control the air-conditioning system.
Elsewhere, Volvo have said they will be
partnering up with Google
 to develop its next generation of infotainment system. Unlike Automotive Grade Linux, Volvo's choice to partner with Google means that its future infotainment system can benefit from the vast amount of applications readily available on Google Play Store.
What about MirrorLink you may ask? MirrorLink is basically a protocol for phones to mirror its display to the infotainment system, with a rather limited choice of applications that can actually be mirrored over. MirrorLink is not as deeply integrated into the car's core functions, as opposed to AGL or Android on Volvo.
Closer to home, the new
Honda Civic
's infotainment system already runs on an Android-based operating system.


Bangkok 2015: 2016 Subaru XV Makes Regional Debut, Hits Malaysia In January With Provisional RM130k Price

Motor Image, official distributor of
Subaru
 vehicles in the region, seems quite pleased to announce an updated version - a facelift, more accurately - of their far-away best selling model, the
Subaru XV
 crossover at the 2015 Bangkok Motor Expo. During its unveil in the Thai capital, the car’s price is pegged just shy of 1.1 million Baht or approximately RM130,000.
We were on the ground to experience the newly updated XV and can report that, while the exterior changes are rather scant, a new wheel design and sharper front fascia, the updates to its drive and overall refinement levels are significant and impressive. Our full report on that will follow shortly.
As we’ve said, the main differentiators here are the wheels and the front. Starting with the wheels, we have 17-inch rims that is an updated version of the current XV’s two-tone five-spoke design. At the front, we have halogen headlamps, LED daytime running lights and a new pair of lights that flank the fog lamps. Moving upwards, we also see the roof rails are now finished in anodised aluminium.
Inside, the layout will be very familiar to those who have sampled the current XV’s interior, both share a leather interior and other leather-wrapped trim, however there are some noteworthy additions to the higher-end variant, namely a 6.2-inch touchscreen infotainment unit, steering controls for wireless phone operation and multimedia, electrically-adjustable seats, and aluminium pedals.
The 2016 Subaru XV arrives in two variants, an entry-level 2.0i and a 2.0i-P (P for Premium) above that. Both share the same powertrain, the familiar 2.0-litre petrol 4-cylinder horizontally opposed boxer engine that develops 150PS and 196Nm of torque that’s transmitted to all four wheels using Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (SAWD) system via a six-speed Lineartronic CVT.
As well, the torque split between the front and rear wheels remains with 60 percent of power being transmitted to the front wheels and the rear wheels given 40 percent, adjusted actively to ensure traction in even the most sticky situations, nearly.


Kia SPORTSPACE Concept Revealed, Headed Towards Geneva Motor Show

Teased just days ago,
 here’s
Kia
 Motors Europe showing off their latest concept, the Kia SPORTSPACE Concept.
Initial guesses of what the teasers showed was that this concept was a design hint of what’s to come of the next-gen
Kia Optima
, and while true still, it looks like the Korean company has yet managed to spring a surprise on us by revealing it in a wagon form . Here’s looking at you, Hyundai i40. Game on.
Due to be unveiled in the metal at the coming 2015 Geneva Motor Show early March, the Kia SPORTSPACE features, as you can tell, a wagon/estate body style. The D-segment estate was designed at Kia Frankfurt’s design studio, under the stewardship of Gregory Guillaume, Chief Designer Europe.
Easily noticeable is how aggressive this car looks, in conjunction with the brand’s signature tiger nose grille, which moves away from the familiar mesh-grille design, to a sleeker, more modern gloss finish within. The rest of the car is absolutely menacing, to say the least.
Inside, it’s very futuristic stuff from Kia again, the a very sporty three-spoke steering wheel, and what looks like two large control display screens ala Mercedes-Benz S-Class.
"
We set out to design a car that is a totally new breed of grand tourer - one for active people who need reasonable cargo space on the weekend, but don't want to compromise moving around in style, comfort and with an element of sportiness,"
 explains Gregory Guillaume, Chief Designer Europe.
For now, that’s about all we can tell, at least until Kia spills more beans at the coming Geneva Motor Show. Stay tuned.


All-New 2016 Honda Civic Revealed In These Patent Images

Thanks to the folks over at
CivicX.com
 who uncovered these official patent images filed by
Honda
, we now have our first look at what the tenth-generation 2016
Honda Civic
 will look like in both the coupé and four-door sedan bodystyle. If you can recall, Honda revealed a thinly disguised Civic
concept at the New York International Auto Show
 recently which the patent images don’t differ heavily from.
Being the production Civic, there will be a few differences from the concept. At the front, the bumper now has smaller and less aggressive air vents and lines while the rear sees the omission of the centre-mounted exhaust and rear spoiler. The rear bumper is also a little more subtle in design although the wrapround taillights remain in place, at least for the coupé. The sedan makes do without them at the gain of two extra doors.
No mention has been made of the powertrain that will power the tenth-generation Honda Civic but it is expected to features the brand’s all-new 1.5-litre VTEC Turbo engine, mated to either a six-speed manual transmission or a CVT automatic depending on which market it will be sold in.
Keep in mind that the Civic you see before you is developed by Honda’s North American R&D team and not be Honda’s R&D division in Japan, similar to the all-new NSX. In all likelihood, this is what our Civic will look like once it makes its way here.


Review: 2016 Toyota Alphard 3.5 & Vellfire 2.5 – Luxury Express, Guaranteed

The last couple of decades have seen the luxury brands making huge in-roads into the SUV market. But just as the likes of
Mercedes-Benz
,
BMW
, and
Audi
 grow their portfolios to include the next GL-this, X-that, or Q-whatever, these same brands have been notably not as enthusiastic with MPVs.
The obvious disinterest of the established luxury brands toward people carriers has undoubtedly left room in the market for grey-imported Japanese-luxury MPVs to flood our streets. In the absence of German alternatives, the likes of the Toyota Estima, and subsequently the larger Alphard and Vellfire twins have successfully established themselves as default choices for the affluent looking for a bit more pizzazz with their people carriers.
Yet, despite the seemingly healthy demand for these vehicles, UMW Toyota Motor have been content to leave the Alphard and Vellfire for parallel importers, until recently. The main reason for this seeming negligence is simply because preceding versions were designed only for the requirements of the Japanese domestic market.
The third-generation Alphard and its Vellfire twin were launched in 2015 and are, for the first time, designed with export markets in mind, enabling their
official introduction here in Malaysia
.
Specifications:
Toyota
 Vellfire
Price: RM355,000 (OTR with Insurance)
Engine: 2.5-litre, Inline-4, Transverse, Dual VVT-i
Power: 180PS @ 6,000rpm
Torque: 235Nm @ 4,100rpm
Transmission: CVT, FWD
Safety: 7 airbags, ABS, EBD, ESC, Traction Control, Hill Start Assist ISOFIX (rear), Front and Rear Parking Sensors, Reverse Camera
Toyota
 Alphard
Price: RM419,900 (OTR with Insurance)
Engine: 3.5-litre, V6, Transverse, Dual VVT-i
Power: 271PS @ 6,200rpm
Torque: 340Nm @ 4,700rpm
Transmission: 6-speed torque converter automatic, FWD
Safety: 7 airbags, ABS, EBD, ESC, Traction Control, Hill Start Assist ISOFIX (rear), Front and Rear Parking Sensors, Reverse Camera
Origin: Fully-Imported From Japan
Overview
The exploits of the
Volkswagen
 Group have taught us much about the concept of platform sharing, but the Alphard and Vellfire are essentially the same model differed outwardly only by their noses. Much of their body panels are common and their interiors are differentiated only by colour scheme.
Underneath the sheet metal lies an all-new platform that notably ditches the preceding generation’s rear torsion beam suspension for a more sophisticated double wishbone setup, giving the Alphard and Vellfire the promise of more assured ride and handling over their respective predecessors.
Engine-drivetrain configuration is model dependent. The Vellfire receives the familiar 2AR-FE 2.5-litre four-cylinder dual VVT-i engine previously seen in the
Camry
. Mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) powering the front wheels, the Vellfire has access to outputs of 180PS and 235Nm.
The Alphard, on the other hand, gets a more substantial 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine mated to a conventional 6-speed automatic transmission also driving the front wheels. Correspondingly, the Alphard’s outputs are far superior at 271PS and 340Nm. Both the 2.5- and 3.5-litre engines receive recalibrated engine settings to acclimatize them to local conditions.
Between the two, the Vellfire is the more affordable model, hitting the road at RM355,000 including insurance. The Alphard, meanwhile, is a significantly costlier preposition, starting at RM419,900 with the option of a significantly more opulent Executive Lounge variant offered as a RM100k upgrade. For this review, we were given the Vellfire as well as the standard Alphard 3.5.
For the money, equipment is decent; Toyota meets the minimum requirement of offering the decent number of airbags (7) whilst also throwing in electronic stability control and reverse camera as standard. That being said, blind spot warning and rear cross traffic alert, both of which are available in the
Camry Hybrid
, are absent here. For vehicles the size of the Alphard and Vellfire, these two features are no luxuries, they are necessities – the blind spots of these vehicles are huge; big enough to fully obscure any Kancil or Kelisa foolish enough to tailgate one of them.
Exterior
Despite effectively being two variants of the same vehicle, Toyota has clear separation in the positioning of these two models with respect to each other – the cheaper Vellfire, despite making less power, is marketed as the ‘sportier’ of two models, whilst the costlier Alphard puts a greater emphasis on luxury.
This differentiation in market positioning between the two models is reflected in their outward styling. Whilst much of their body panels are common, each is easily differentiated from the other by a quick glance, particularly from the front. The Vellfire is recognizable by its signature split-level LED headlights; the Alphard has a more restrained appearance, but still wears a bold heavily-chromed front grille. If it’s presence you’re after, both vehicles deliver it in spades.
Around the rear, the respective identities of the two vehicles are further reinforced. Both MPVs get LED-illuminated tail lights, but the Vellfire sports more aggressive-looking colourless lenses whilst the Alphard retains a more conventional design.
Owing to their stylistic differences, the Alphard and Vellfire have slightly different body lengths, the former being 15mm shorter at 4,915mm compared to 4,930mm of the latter. They both share identical widths and heights, however, measuring at 1,850 and 1,895mm respectively. Because of their box-like profiles, much of the space contained within their three dimensions convert to actual interior volume.
Interior
Whilst more overtly differentiated on the outside, the Alphard and Vellfire’s cabins are all but identical. The only key difference between them is their colour schemes – two-tone black and beige in the Alphard, all-black in the Vellfire.
Up front, the dashboard is decked with a mixture of heavily-textured plastics, metallic trim, and shiny woodgrain inserts to create an overall impression of luxury. Visually, Toyota’s efforts achieve the desired results, but are not entirely convincing to the touch; storage bin lids, in particular, have a tinny and hollow feel to them. It’s the kind of fit and finish that we can close an eye to in an Altis or Camry, but less so in a vehicle that costs similar money to a brand new, fully-imported
Mercedes-Benz E-Class
.
Infotainment system is localized, fitted at the PDI stage by UMW Toyota technicians. The touchscreen unit is identical to what’s offered in other Toyota models sold through official UMW channels.
Seating configuration is identical in both models, with the middle row sporting a pair of captain chairs with power-operated reclining and Ottoman functions. In the Alphard Executive Lounge variant, the captain chairs are upgraded to VIP seats that more closely resemble what you would find in the Business Class section of an airplane than a car. Incorporated within the exclusive VIP seats are in-built air-conditioning and stowaway tables.
Even further back, the third row seats allow legal seating for three passengers each with individually-adjustable headrests. The middle passenger’s headrest is awkwardly large, however, and impedes the driver’s rear view when not removed. The entire third row can be split-folded 50:50 to free up additional cargo room. In our tinkering, the seats fold easily enough upon familiarization.
In total, the seats can be configured into nine different arrangements to suit a variety of passenger and cargo carrying requirements. For even more storage space, deck plates at the rear section of the cabin can be opened to reveal hidden compartments.
Thanks to the powered doors and well-considered spacing between the middle row chairs, ingress and egress into the cabin and access to all seats are exceptionally convenient. This walkthrough-friendly cabin configuration, perhaps, is the biggest selling point of both these models.
Driving Experience
You don’t buy luxury
MPVs for handling prowess
, yes, but make no mistake, a good modicum of body control is essential to ensure a calm and soothing ride for the VIPs that many of these vehicles will no doubt be tasked to ferry. Ditto engine performance, no one expects an Alphard or Vellfire to accelerate like a hot hatch, but it needs to be able to pull its own weight plus the added weight of passengers and cargo in dignified fashion.
The suspensions of both vehicles are tailored to be soft, ensuring that they ride over poor surfaces in pliant fashion. The flipside of this setup, however, is that bodyroll and nosediving becomes a common occurrence in your driving experience, and this is without needing to push the vehicle to extremes – front end pitching upon braking is pronounced enough from as low as 20 km/h.
Both powerplants deliver what’s required of them, meaning to say that get about their business with minimum fuss as well as commendable refinement. The Alphard’s 3.5-litre V6, notably is smooth on the revs and its 6-speed torque converter automatic shifts with such imperceptible smoothness, it might well have been a CVT, and we mean this in a positive context.
That being said, the Vellfire’s 2.5-litre inline-4 is more than adequate for most purposes. It loses little to the 3.5 in refinement whilst also feeling far from underpowered when pushed. The engine’s lesser displacement also gives the benefit of better fuel consumption, which we would elaborate on later.
As a whole, these are vehicles best driven within urban confines. Their tight turning circles and lightweight controls certainly make for a stress-free if hardly engaging driving experience. At high speeds though we must highlight that the similarly-sized
Nissan Elgrand
 steers with much greater confidence and composure.
Comfort & Refinement
These being vehicles geared to offer luxury on the move, comfort is naturally a strong point of both the Alphard and Vellfire. You have a plush ride on one hand and a lavishly-appointed cabin on the other; combined, they make for an ambiance that few cars can rival at a comparable price. Also, Toyota’s effective suppression of harsh noises and vibrations on the move mean that the façade of luxury in place here is a largely convincing one.
Granted, a Mercedes-Benz E-Class (RM396k – RM426k) offers a plusher mix of materials and a
Volvo XC90 T8 (RM454k)
 is simply classier, but there isn’t anything else in the market that offers a comparable blend of luxury and outright stretch-your-arms-and-legs space as this pair of Toyota twins.
Fuel Economy & Maintenance
For a 2.5-litre engine pulling a two-tonne-plus body, the Vellfire is rather efficient, asking for only 12.2 litres/100km over 550km of mostly urban driving. We covered the entire length of that distance without needing to refuel its 75-litre fuel tank.
The Alphard sips a bit more, though 15.2 litres/100km does not represent unreasonable consumption when compared to the 2.5-litre Vellfire. It’s a difference of about 25% for an additional two cylinders and 1,000cc of displacement.
At last check, UMW Toyota Motor's official website lists only servicing costs only for the Alphard, but it’s fair to expect that the Vellfire should cost the same or less to maintain.
Regular maintenance are set at 5,000km intervals and the customer can freely choose between mineral, semi-, or fully-synthetic lubrication, the latter two with added cost implications. Depending on your choice and mileage, a visit to your neighbourhood UMW Toyota service centre can set you back anywhere between RM169.00 and RM769.00.
Click to enlarge
Conclusion
With no other model offering a more convincing fulfilment of the brief, Toyota has the luxury MPV market effectively cornered to itself. For the money, your other options are mostly mid-sized German sedans or SUVs that seat two passengers less within far tighter confines of space.
Perhaps the biggest question most people will face regarding these two vehicles isn’t so much whether they should buy it or which variant to buy, but rather who to buy them from – an official UMW Toyota dealership or a parallel importer.
The advantages of buying official are clear – you get peace of mind aftersales coverage and a brand new vehicle that is conditioned to our climate. That being said, stocks are aplenty at parallel importers across the country; in face of stiff competition, dealers are likely to cut you a sweet deal if you’re willing to do business with them. The choice is yours.


CES 2018: Mercedes-Benz’s Latest MBUX Infotainment System To Debut In New A-Class

Mercedes-Benz has announced that its latest infotainment system called the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) will be taking centre stage at the ongoing Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas.
According to Mercedes-Benz, the name MBUX signals that the user experience (UX) is to the fore. A unique feature of this system is its ability to learn thanks to artificial intelligence. Besides that, it can also be individualised to adapt and suit the user.
It thus creates an emotional connection between the vehicle, driver and passengers. At the same time updates “over the air” are possible. It also heralds a new era at Mercedes me Connectivity.
Key features of the new infotainment system include the high-resolution Widescreen Cockpit with touchscreen operation, navigation display with augmented reality technology, plus intelligent voice control with natural speech recognition, which is activated with the keyword “Hey Mercedes”.
Set to be featured for the first time in the new 2018 A-Class, the MBUX also comes with a comprehensive touch operation concept – the combination of a touchscreen, touchpad on the centre console and Touch-Control Buttons in the steering wheel.
On the first level you find what is known as the Homescreen. This is where, alongside the freely selectable main applications (e.g. telephone, navigation and radio), the most important information (such as arrival time, song currently being played etc.) is displayed.
The next level – the Basescreen – with the display and controls for one main application respectively, such as Media and Navigation, is only one step away. The most important information and control options respectively are attractively presented at this level. Important functions such as destination or music search are grouped at the bottom edge of the screen.
For seldom-used information and settings there is the Submenu on the final level.
Operation is horizontal and makes optimum use of the widescreen format of the display. As on a stage a space is created which not only sets standards visually, but also supports navigation between the individual information levels.
The fully digital instrument cluster can also be configured virtually entirely according to personal preferences. As an alternative to the classic speed display in the left-hand tube, displays such as Analog Clock, From Start, From Reset, Range or Information on the current radio station / media title can be placed there. In the right-hand tube, in addition to the rev counter, assistance graphic, the current consumption, the ECO display or a navigation map can also be displayed.
“With the new MBUX generation, we are transporting our user interface design into the digital world”, says Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer Daimler AG. “We are thus transferring intelligent technology into an emotional overall experience.”


All-New Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 Launched In Malaysia, Priced From RM 633,888

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has just launched the all-new GLE-Class, with the fully imported model offered in either a 5-seater or 7-seater variant.
This model competes with the mainstream names of luxury SUVs such as the BMW X5, Volvo XC90, and Audi Q7. Before adopting the GLE name, it was known as the Mercedes ML-Class.
The front of the all-new GLE-Class features an octagonal-shaped grille, with slim tail lamps that closely resembles the sporty Mercedes-Benz CLS.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has selected to offer the new GLE 450 with the AMG Line. AMG-specific items include front and rear bumpers, radiator grille with single louvre grille and diamond pattern, body-coloured fender extensions, huge 22-inch tyres and wheels (front: 285, rear: 325 widths), and gloss black highlights.
Thanks to plenty of aerodynamic-efficient measures such as underbody panels, wheel spoilers, tailgate seals, and tail lamp lips, the all-new GLE-Class returns a sedan-like Coefficient of Drag (Cd) figure of 0.29, the best in its segment.
Inside, the larger all-new Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class houses a new dashboard design that places the dual-LCD widescreen cockpit display as if it is floating on the fully leather-lined upper dashboard. All interface is controlled by the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) system.
Grab handles, a typical feature of off-roaders, surround the Comand control panel and other switches located on the lower centre console.
Through the extension of the wheelbase that is now 2,995 millimetres (20 longer than the all-new G05 BMW X5), Mercedes-Benz has now incorporated a third-row of folding seats for two occupants, which is an optional feature for a price of RM 5,000.
Seats on the second row also enjoy more luxurious features, including powered adjustment for the slide, recline, and headrest height.
Key features include:
E-Active Body air suspension system
Burmester Surround Sound System
Panoramic sliding moonroof
Acoustic windscreen and side windows
Active Stop-and-Go full adaptive cruise control
Powered rear sunshades
Currently, the all-new SUV is only available with the new single exhaust-turbocharger 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder petrol engine codenamed M256. Sharing similar performance figures with the CLS 450 (367 hp, 500 Nm), the GLE 450 also has a mild hybrid system that houses an integrated starter/alternator (ISG) between the 9G-Tronic transmission and engine. The mild hybrid system or EQ Boost enhances power by 22 hp over short periods.
Drive to the front and rear axle after the nine-speed automatic transmission is intelligently split by a high-performance electronically-controlled multi-disc clutch transfer case which improves on-road handling as well as making it very capable during off-road driving.
The all-new Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 is built in Alabama, the USA. At the same event, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia also launched a new addition to their growing line-up of locally-assembled models: the Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Coupe. More information about this
sporty SUV can be found here
.


Czech Billionaire Hunted By German Authorities For Doing 414km/h In His Bugatti Chiron

Czech billionaire does 414km/h on the Autobahn with his Bugatti Chiron - German authorities are on the hunt for the speed demon for his actions.

Just because parts of the Autobahn have no speed limits doesn't mean that you can drive on it like it's your own private road, as there are still other road users who use the same highway.

This refers to the recent 414km/h Autobahn run by a Czech businessman when he took his
Bugatti
 Chiron to its top speed on the famous highway.

What turned out to be a dream come true is about to turn into a nightmare, as local German authorities are on the hunt for Radim Passer for his actions.

According to UK-based publication
The Sun
, the region's transport chief, Linda Hueskens, said drivers need to behave responsibly when no speed limit is posted. "In this case, there are certainly very serious doubts as to whether that happened."

According to the police department in Saxony-Anhalt, if Passer is found guilty, he will likely face a prison sentence of up to two years for illegal racing offences.

The run has even faced some backlash from Bugatti themselves, as they have come out with a statement practically distancing themselves from their customer.

"Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S is aware of the video of a Bugatti Chiron being driven at high speed on a German highway," the company said in a statement. "However, due to the possible investigation being conducted by the public prosecutor, Bugatti Automobiles does not wish to comment on or anticipate any further assessments regarding the incident referred to."

The irony of Bugatti's statement is that the automobile company once congratulated Passer and his team for a top speed run in 2014, where he took the Bugatti Veyron up to 404km/h on a public road.

The high-speed run got some attention after Passer uploaded the whole run on Youtube (including the 404km/h Veyron run from 2014). Despite conducting the speed test at 4.50 am, where there was barely any traffic, the actions of the Czech billionaire are still being criticised by Germany's Transport Ministry as they are accusing him of putting other drivers in danger.

In the video, Passer, Czech Republic's 33rd richest person, even said that "safety was a priority, so the circumstances had to be safe to go". While you could argue that Passer did consider safety, the speed run was still conducted on a public road. If money was no object, and it certainly seems the case here, why didn't Passer just book a circuit anywhere in Europe and make his run in a controlled environment?

For those who are wondering who this
speed demon
 is, the video down below should give you a good idea.

The Bugatti Chiron is equipped with an 8.0-litre quad-turbocharged W16 engine and has a peak power output of 1,479 hp and 1,600 Nm of torque.
In 2017
, Bugatti announced that the Chiron broke the record of fastest 0–400–0 km/h acceleration time, completing it in 41.96 seconds in a span of 3.2 kilometres.


Maserati Peels Back Curtain On All-New 2023 GranTurismo With 760HP EV Option

Maserati has a decades-long lineage of sexy, fast, and luxurious grand touring coupes, all with different names but a common genetic marker that was most recently embedded within the aptly named GranTurismo - Italian for Grand Tour/Touring/Tourism.

Returning for a second-generation, the GT and its expected open-top counterpart, the GranCabrio, have found themselves in a very different world and under new leadership after the 2020
merging of Fiat Chrysler with PSA to form Stellantis
.

Certain things had to change and in big ways, which is why for the first time we find no naturally aspirated Ferrari-derived V8 under its extended bonnet, an engine that so defined the brand for the past 15 to 20 years.

In its place there’s the Nettuno, a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6
lifted from the MC20 supercar
 available in the new GranTurismo in two states of tune: Modena and Trofeo, respectively delivering 490hp and 550hp. It’s no slouch and is definitely more potent than its predecessor, but won’t sound as glorious as that old school screaming atmospheric.

Maserati has had a pretty extensive history with V6 engines in the past so this isn’t exactly blasphemous, but something potentially divisive is the option to have your GranTurismo as a fully electric 2+2 coupe.

Called the Folgore, which roughly translates to
lightning
 or ‘thunderbolt’ in Italiano, it signals the brand’s falling into line with Stellantis’ group-wide electrification push. The GranTurismo EV swaps out all its fuel-burning components for a big lithium-ion battery and 3 electric motors with tech trickled down from Formula E.

These also operate at 800-volts much like the Hyundai IONIQ 5
and Porsche Taycan
, allowing the car to sport a trio of 300kW permanent magnet electric motors (one on the front axle and two at the rear). Working in tandem, the brand claims a maximum combined output of 760hp to the wheels.

This might come in pretty handy especially considering the electric guts have swelled its weight to 2,260kg while the V6-powered GTs are just a shade under 1,800kg, which is a decent improvement over the previous model, one that was notoriously chunky on the scales for its svelte shape.

Cleverly wedged in between the front and rear axles in a 'T-Bone formation' is a bank of cells that collectively store 92.5kWh on a full charge (with a discharge capacity of 560kW) though only 83kWh of that is usable to the driver, which is still pretty impressive given the car isn’t built on an electric-specific architecture that utilises a skateboard platform.

With a total of 1,351Nm at its disposal from essentially zero revs, the GranTurismo Folgore is capable of sprinting to 100km/h from a standstill in just 2.7 seconds. The automaker has not disclosed its projected range yet but with DC fast charging up to 270kW, at least replenishing its reserves won’t take too long when plugged into the right station.

To compensate for an EV’s lack of a charismatic soundtrack, chief engineer Davide Danesin said that they’ve developed a special system to utilise external and internal speakers….somehow.

In terms of looks, there’s no denying this is very much
a Maserat
i with very similar visual cues and exterior dimensions to the previous GranTurismo which was launched way back in 2007. Some might even argue that it’s too dependent on what came before instead of forging a new and innovative design, but given how unrecognisable the car is under-the-skin, we’re willing to excuse this criticism.

It’s a classic look that many people already associate with the brand, so why not keep the roll going.

This is the old model, FYI.

Despite the car and plenty of its specifications have now been revealed, there are many gaps still left unaddressed. For one, though many assuming that the MC20’s 8-speed dual clutch gearbox has also been transplanted into GranTurismo, there’s no confirmation of this.

Secondly, Maserati still seems very hesitant to show the world the car’s interior. All we have so far are exterior images leaving its cabin experience up to the imagination. One has to ask why, especially if the car, as a development project, is as complete as they want you to think.

This is
also
 the old model, FYI.

What we do know is that the full interior unveil is scheduled for early 2023 (better be worth the wait!) and promises to be, in a word, ‘dramatic’. It’ll include a 12-inch digital dashboard and a pair of infotainment screens along the centre stack, though physical stalks and buttons still have a place.

European on-sale dates for the V6-powered GranTurismo is slated for Q1 of next year while the EV some time in the second half, so there’s still so much waiting left to do. When it does finally break that barrier into showroom reality, it will do so with a limited run of even pricier First Edition examples.

We know know more
than we did last month
, but don't have the full picture. It's going to be a slow drip.


Audi Teases 2016 R8 With New Laser Headlight Technology

Like clockwork, the
2016 Audi R8 that was spied
 last week has led to an official teaser, the first officially released by
Audi
, of the next-generation
R8
 that we expect to see fully unveiled at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show. In the picture, we’re able to get a glimpse of the more angular lines and aggressive wheel design, as well as the new laser headlights. Speaking of which...
Audi is talking excitedly about its new optional headlight technology for the all-new R8, which as mentioned, uses laser spots as the high-beam headlight to supplement the LEDs. These new laser high-beams attain nearly twice the lighting range compared to their purely LED counterparts through the use of high-intensity laser diodes. It was first seen on the Audi R18 e‑tron quattro race car before making its commercial debut on the limited edition 2014 Audi R8 LMX.
In use, you would be able to distinguish these headlights by their faint blue light signature. Each headlight contains one laser module that operates with four high‑intensity laser diodes, a phosphor converter then transforms the blue light into pure white light.
That's about all we can tell you for now, apart from what we've already seen in the spyshot of the car leaked weeks ago. Stay tuned for more news as we head on to the Geneva Motor Show in March.


The History Of Adaptive Headlights

Not all headlights are made equal - but adaptive headlights have come a long way.

What makes for
good car headlights
? It isn't merely how bright the lights are, or how far they're projected and how wide the spread is. They have to be both bright as well as able to avoid blinding other road users, which is why the more complex systems will even have automatic levelling that ties in with suspension movement.

But one particularly tricky situation is what happens when you come to a tighter corner. Regardless of how wide the spread of your beam is, it can be hard to see what's around a corner because of the way your beams travel in the direction the car is pointed - not where your wheels are pointed. Depending on how sharp the corner is, you may find that the direction you're heading in is simply not well lit enough.

There have been a couple of novel ways to get around this. One of the earliest examples of this was back in 1967, with the Citroen DS and SM. The
headlights
 would swivel with steering input, even up to 80 degrees from straight - an incredibly effective way of lighting the bends and hairpins ahead. It was a fairly crude yet effective solution, with rods and wires connecting the steering system to the headlights.

This kind of system is similar to what you find on modern cars, but there were many interim solutions as well. Even our humble Protons had something known as a cornering side lamp, which would come on when you activated a turn signal or turned the steering wheel in their direction. This is also a solution that persists to this day on many cars across different price brackets.

We mention this, because it is this system of additional directional lamps that is currently the solution found with BMW's Laser Light headlights - as they aren't designed to swivel with steering input. For a bit of background, laser light headlights bounce a laser off a reflective element that adjusts and lights the road ahead - but it does so in a manner that avoids blinding oncoming cars and maximizes visible area.

The problem is such a precisely designed system cannot simply swivel around to view the road around a bend. Hence, the additional cornering lamps are used in its place - although less complex lighting systems are still able to swivel the main and high beams around bends.

So there you have it. Of course the best solution would have lights on at all times, spread in all directions like the sighting lights in rally cars - but this would also blind and upset nearly everyone else on the road so you can see why that just isn't an option.


Honda HR-V 2022 vs Proton X70 MC1 – Kena Naik Segmen C Atau Cukup SUV Segmen B?

Dalam minggu ni sahaja, industri automotif agak sibuk dengan pelancaran
Proton X70 MC1
serta tempahan bagi
Honda HR-V 2022
 yang kini dibuka. Antara kedua-dua kereta Ini, yang mana satu paling cocok untuk anda?

Untuk menjawab persoalan tersebut, kami akan membandingkan model di bawah untuk melihat sama ada adakah
SUV segmen-B
sudah memadai ataupun lebih baik beli
 SUV segmen-C
 sahaja.

Proton X70 MC1 2022, varian 1.5 TGDI Premium

Honda HR-V 2022 (varian petrol)

Seperti yang disahkan oleh
Honda Malaysia,
 HR-V 2022 akan hadir dalam dua pilihan rangkaian iaitu enjin petrol sepenuhnya serta hibrid e:HEV. Namun dalam perbandingan kali ini, kami akan memilih varian petrol sahaja untuk dibandingkan bersama X70 MC1 ini.

Dimensi

Model

Panjang

Lebar

Tinggi

Jarak Roda

Honda HR-V 2022

4,385 mm

1,790 mm

1,590 mm

2,610 mm

Proton X70 MC1

4,519 mm

1,831 mm

1,694 mm

2,630 mm

Dari segi saiz, perbezaan segmen membuatkan Proton X70  memang lebih besar, tinggi dan lebar bebanding HR-V. Jika saiz dan keluasan merupakan perkara utama yang anda fikirkan dalam memilih kereta, jelas sekali siapa pemenangnya di sini.

Exterior

Proton X70 MC1 masih lagi kelihatan seperti Proton X70 yang dilancarkan pada tahun 2020 sebelum ini. Perbezaan minimal seperti warna hitam di perumah lampu kabus serta bampar hadapan dan belakang kereta agak sukar untuk dibezakan, kecuali apabila melihat rim 19-inci nya.

Sementara itu, HR-V untuk pasaran Malaysia telah disahkan akan menerima teknologi LED untuk lampu hadapan, lampu nyalaan siang dan lampu kabus, lampu isyarat membelok jenis LED
Sequential
 serta set rim aloi bersaiz 18-inci.

Dari segi rupa paras kereta, Honda HR-V lebih memberikan imej yang segar memandangkan ia masih baru berbanding Proton X70 yang sudah kerap dilihat di jalan raya. Rekaan rupa hadapan yang ringkas dan kemas membuatkan HR-V kelihatan lebih garang dan futuristik.

Enjin

Perincian mengenai jenis enjin yang bakal digunakan oleh HR-V di Malaysia masih lagi menjadi tanda tanya. Namun di pasaran indonesia, HR-V ini ditawarkan dalam dua pilihan enjin petrol iaitu:

1.5L empat silinder i-VTEC NA

1.5L empat silinder VTEC Turbo

Untuk Honda HR-V, kemungkinan besar ialah Honda Malaysia bakal memperkenalkan hanya enjin NA di Malaysia ditambah dengan varian teratas hibrid.

Enjin 1.5 NA, menampilkan angka kuasa yang sama seperti pada City iaitu 121 PS dan tork maksima 145 Nm serta dipadankan dengan kotak gear CVT.

Enjin

Kuasa

Tork

Transmisi

1.5 TGDI X70

177 PS

255 Nm

7 kelajuan automatik DCT

1.5 NA HR-V

121 PS

145 Nm

CVT

Sementara itu, Enjin 1.5 TGDI pada X70 pula menghasilkan output yang sama seperti
Proton X50,
 iaitu 177 PS dan 255 Nm tork. Walau bagaimanapun, penggunaan enjin 1.5 TGDI pada X70 memberikan perbezaan berat yang ketara berbanding enjin 1.8 TGDI sebelumnya di mana ia telah mengurangkan berat enjin sebanyak 43 kg. berat enjin 1.8 adalah 156 kg manakala enjin 1.5 adalah 113 kg.

Meskipun saiz X70 lebih besar berbanding HR-V, namun penurunan kapasiti dan output enjin terhadap X70 MC1 ini tidaklah begitu terasa ekoran model 1.5 lebih ringan. Jika dilihat di atas kertas, enjin X70 1.5 TGDI kelihatan lebih berkuasa berbanding enjin HR-V. Enjin X70 itu dipadankan dengan transmisi 7 kelajuan automatik DCT.

Interior

Dari segi interior pula, X70 MC1 masih lagi mengekalkan interior yang sama seperti sebelumnya dengan menggunakan warna coklat. Bezanya cuma kali ini, bumbung dalamnya diwarnakan hitam. Tiada sambungan pintar Apple Carplay mahupun Android Auto terdapat pada paparan infotainmen bersaiz 8-inci. Terdapat kemudahan arahan suara Hi Proton yang membolehkan pemandu mengawal tingkap, suhu dan infotaimen.

Honda HR-V pula menawarkan interior yang lebih bersifat minimal sambil dilengkapi dengan corong penyaman udara memanjang seperti yang terdapat pada Honda Civic generasi ke 11. Walaupun ruang kepala mungkin akan berkurangan berbanding model sebelumnya memandangkan bumbung belakangnya yang lebih rendah, namun dari segi keluasan bahu mungkin bertambah memandangkan ia sedikit lebar. Model ini bakal dilengkapi dengan Apple Carplay dan Android Auto seperti yang ada pada Civic dan City generasi terkini.

Ciri Keselamatan Aktif

Proton X70 MC1

Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)

Forward Collision Warning (FCW)

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

Lane Departure Warning (LDW)

Blind Spot Monitor

Door opening warning system

Intelligent high beam

Tyre pressure monitoring system

Kamera 360 darjah

Sensor
parking
: 4 hadapan, 4 belakang

Immobilizer

Honda HR-V

Kemungkinan Honda HR-V akan dilengkapi dengan sistem keselamatan aktif Honda Sensing yang terdiri daripada :

brek kecemasan autonomi (AEB) dengan pengesanan pejalan kaki dan penunggang basikal

Kawalan pelayaran adaptif

Lampu tinggi automatik

Bantuan kekal lorong

Pemantauan titik buta

Amaran pergerakan hadapan

Walau bagaimanapun, memandangkan City dan City Hatchback hanya tiba dengan LaneWatch dalam 1.5V, mungkin ciri seperti 6 beg udara keselamatan, ABS dan kawalan kestabilan akan dimasukkan dalam varian asas dan Honda Sensing akan dikhaskan untuk varian petrol teratas dan e:HEV.

Harga

Proton X70 MC1 1.5L TGDI Premium 2WD ini dijual pada harga RM117,900 manakala Honda HR-V 2022 dijangka dijual pada harga jangkaan bermula RM120,000 bagi varian asas sehingga RM140,000 bagi varian hibrid. Dari segi harga, Proton X70 MC1 mungkin muncul sebagai pilihan yang lebih menarik jika dibandingkan dari segi harga sahaja.

Walau bagaimanapun, anda tak sepatutnya membandingkan dari segi harga kereta sahaja, namun fikirlah juga harga penyelenggaraannya. Semakin besar segmen kereta, semakin tinggilah bayaran yang dikenakan. Sebagai contoh, Proton X70 MC1 menggunakan tayar bersaiz 19-inci manakala HR-V menggunakan tayar 18-inci.

Kesimpulan

Kesimpulannya, masih tidak banyak perincian berkenaan spesifikasi Honda HR-V varian petrol yang dikongsikan oleh Honda Malaysia. Perbandingan sah mungkin dapat dibuat setelah model itu dilancarkan kelak. Walau bagaimanapun, Jika anda rasa lebih berbaloi untuk membeli SUV segmen C pada harga yang lebih rendah berbanding SUV segmen B, X70 MC1 sememangnya pilihan yang menarik. Namun model baharu Honda HR-V juga tidak kurang sengatnya dengan reka bentuk yang lebih agresif dan futuristik. Yang paling penting, tepuk dada, tanya selera.


Thai-Japanese Partnership To Make Thailand Hub For EVs and Hybrids

The Japanese embassy in Thailand and the Japan External Trade Organization (Jetro) has signed a record of discussions (RD) with Thailand’s Science and Technology Ministry and National Economic and Social Development Board (NESDB) to develop Thailand into a manufacturing hub for not just pick-up trucks, but also hybrids and electric vehicles.
According to a report by the Bangkok Post, the deal will focus on upgrading human resources and research and development at Thai industries.
It also quoted NESDB secretary-general Arkhom Termpitayapaisith as saying that Japanese companies willing to promote Thailand as a manufacturing hub for pick-up trucks, hybrids and electric vehicles if the Thai government offered import tariff and excise tax waivers for imported car prototypes and auto parts that had yet to be made in Thailand.
They also proposed that the Thailand government should contribute some funds to develop automotive testing centres for crash, high-speed, wind-tunnel, durability and emissions tests.
The Thailand Automotive Institute have earlier mooted a proposal to develop an automotive testing centre. The Thai government has committed THB 5 billion for the project but it is still pending cabinet’s approval.
Among the hybrid vehicles currently produced in Thailand are the Toyota Camry Hybrid, Honda Civic Hybrid, Honda Accord Hybrid, diesel-electric hybrid variants of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, E-Class and S-Class. The Toyota Prius was also assembled there but was discontinued earlier this year following a dispute in tax documents between Toyota Motor Thailand and the Thai Customs Department.


Perodua New SUV – Teases Design Of The Rear, Claim 15.6 km/L

Perodua continues to release bite-sized pieces of specifications on their upcoming SUV.
In this latest teaser image, the tail lamp is lit and have a similar design to the
earlier launched Toyota sibling
.
Perodua also unveiled that the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine with Dual VVTi (outputs of 105 PS and 136 Nm of torque in the Toyota model) will return 15.6 kilometres per litre of fuel consumption.
Both the new Perodua SUV (could it be named
Lasaq, Aruz or Impax?
) and Toyota Rush are also equipped with an idle start-stop feature that will momentarily turn off the engine when the vehicle comes to a complete stop (i.e. while waiting at a traffic light) to reduce fuel consumption.
Once the driver releases the brake pedal, the engine re-starts itself automatically, all within a blink of an eye.
This figure is very commendable, given that the
Honda BR-V
 is returning 16.1 kilometres per litre of fuel through the use of a more efficient CVT-type automatic transmission.
To recap, Perodua has so far revealed that the new SUV will have these features:
7 seats with flexible configuration
Advanced Safety Assist 2.0
6 Airbags
Dual VVTi 1.5-litre engine delivering 15.6 km/L fuel efficiency
The Toyota Rush is supplied to UMW Toyota by Perodua, thus, it comes to no surprise that the design and key features are the same. The same business model also applies in Indonesia: Astra Daihatsu Motor plant produces the Daihatsu Terios and supplies the Toyota Rush to Toyota.


Tanjung Aru's beach car boot sale extended - more car boot sales should take place around the country

We should have more car boot sales in Malaysia as it's a great form of sustainable shopping.

Car boot sales are famous in western countries. Not only can you pick up a gem or two at a low price, but you can also sell your unloved goods where it could be a treasure to someone else.

With the world aiming toward sustainable everything, it's good to pass your unloved goods to someone else which is why car boot sales is perfect for everybody, including us Malaysians.

According to The Star, Tanjung Aru's beach car boot sale is getting so much positive feedback, they have decided to extend it.

Held every Saturday and Sunday, this sustainable shopping and thrifting feature everybody from young entrepreneurs, petty traders and housewives who wish to earn extra income.

Photo credit: The Star

Tanjung Aru Eco Development executive director Datuk Ismail Abdullah said the weekly event was an effort by the management to make the beach a mainstay of the local community.

“The car boot sale is held every (weekend) from 10am to 10pm and there is no admission fee,” he said to The Star.

“Residents around Tanjung Aru and Kota Kinabalu are welcome (to come).

“Everyone is encouraged to bring their own shopping bags or trolleys, tumblers, and food containers (to be eco-friendly),” said Ismail.

The organisers are hoping that the programme attracts more park visitors as well as local traders to buy and sell their wares.

We think this is a good idea as everyone can sell their unloved goods to those that might actually appreciate them. If we can do this, then think about all the stuff getting a new life, instead of heading towards the garbage tip, or worse, just being dumped by the side of the road.

Hey, who knows, you might find a gem or two, like those rims or car parts you've been hunting for a long time, solving many problems at once.


Car Sales In Malaysia Recovering, Up To 258,586 Sold YTD

As the Malaysian Automotive Association has changed their reporting to be every quarter, we’ve had to wait a little longer to get sales data – but it’s finally here.

From manufacturing plant to sales people, the entire automotive industry and supply chain has been working hard to get numbers back up following the massive impact of COVID-19 – and while we may not be able to hit the initial TIV target that MAA had proposed for 2020, we’re certainly recovering and growing stronger.

Let’s go with the big numbers. In July, we saw a massive bump in passenger car sales from 40,944 sold in June to 52,119 – a 27.2% increase. August saw a slight dip with 47,591 units– an 8.7% decrease. What’s surprising is that this exceeds the figures for 2019, which saw 46,189 units sold in July 2019 and 46,802 units sold in August of 2019.

For the time being, we aren’t seeing any actual individual breakdowns of the sales figures – but as mentioned before that will likely be reported in a detailed manner at the end of every quarter. Unfortunately, the second revised TIV target of 470,000 units is still a pretty lofty goal, with three to four months of sales left in the year. Year to date figures stand at 258,586 for passenger car sales, compared to 398,319 units in 2019.

If we are to hit the 2020 TIV of 470,00, we have 211,414 units to sell in September, October, November and December. Broken down further, it means that we will need to achieve close to 53,000 units sold per month. Given the fact that we are still awaiting price confirmation for mass-selling models like the Proton X50, Honda City RS i-MMD, Nissan Almera Turbo and Kia Seltos, you can see why it is a lofty goal.


2016 Toyota Innova Open For Bookings – 3 Variants, 2.0L Engine, RM109k Onwards

It would seem that the all-new Toyota Innova is around the corner with UMW Toyota Motor having just officially announced order taking for three variants effective immediately. Launch date has yet to be indicated.
As before, the Innova will be powered by a 2.0-litre petrol engine that can in turn be paired with a manual or automatic transmission. Based on
Thai specifications
, this could be a new version of the 1TR-FE engine updated with Dual VVT-i producing 139PS and 189Nm.
Following the footsteps of its predecessor, the new Innova is built on the second-generation IMV platform that also underpins the current
Hilux
 and
Fortuner
. This means that the Innova continues to be based on a ladder frame and is rear-wheel driven. The Thai market is additionally offered the option of a 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine that is not currently on the table for Malaysia.
Click to enlarge
The three variants of the all-new Toyota Innova are summarized as follows:
2.0E Manual
2.0E Automatic
Radiator Grille – Silver Painted
Door Handle – Body Coloured
205/60 R16 tyres, 16-inch Alloy Wheels
Side Mirror – Electric Adjustment, Integrated Signal Light
Rear Fog Light
Dashboard Trim – Black & Silver
Multi Info Display (MID) – Monochrome
Manual Climate Control
Audio – CD Player, Tuner, MP3, AUX-IN, USB, Bluetooth, 6 Speakers
Tilt & Telescopic Steering – Urethane-Wrapped, Silver Trim, Controls for Audio, MID, Bluetooth
Dual Frontal Airbags, Driver Knee Airbag
ABS, EBD
2.0G Automatic
adds the following:
Radiator Grille – Chrome with Silver & Black Paint
Door Handle – Chrome
Side Mirror – Electric Adjustment, Integrated Signal Light, Power Folding, Puddle Lamp
Front and Rear Fog Lights
Dashboard Trim – Wood & Silver
MID – 4.2-inch Colour TFT
Tilt & Telescopic Steering – Leather-Wrapped, Wood & Silver Trim, Controls for Audio, MID, Bluetooth
Keyless Entry, Engine Start Button
Back Tables Mounted On Front Seats
LED Roof Ambient Lighting
Easy Close Tailgate
7 airbags
Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control, Hill Assist
Emergency Stop Signal
The all-new Innova is covered by a five-year unlimited mileage factory warranty transferable upon resale.