Lamborghini Accident On Jalan Tun Razak: Truly A Case Of Gone In 60 Seconds

Lamborghini driver loses control on Jalan Tun Razak and barges into the back of a Proton Perdana causing it to overturn.

Another day, another vehicle ramming into the back of another car causing a major accident, but instead of a drugged-up
lorry driver barging into an innocent little yellow Myvi
, this time around, it seemed like a raging bull went amok.

In an incident at 8.40 am, 8 September, a Lamborghini Gallardo driven by a 42-year-old Malaysian lost control and crashed into a Proton Perdana causing it to overturn at Jalan Tun Razak heading towards the Pahang roundabout.

The Gallardo in question was driven at high speed and did not have time to slow down when it arrived at the layover, which was experiencing traffic congestion.

Head of the Kuala Lumpur Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT), Assistant Commissioner Sarifudin Mohd Salleh said the initial investigation found that the man failed to control the vehicle until it collided with a Proton Perdana car driven by a 53-year old woman causing it to overturn.

Sarifudin said urine and alcohol screening tests were done on the driver, which found him negative for drugs or intoxication. We can pin this down as a typical case of overzealousness.

Common sense tells us that one should not be driving fast while in the city, especially when a particular road is tight and only has two lanes. While some understand this logic, other high powered car owners seem to think that they can defy physics, wherein their car can be stopped instantly.

In this particular incident, we don't truly know what was going through the
Lamborghini
 driver's mind, but it does seem that the driver was high on horsepower, which probably clouded his judgement about safe driving in the city.

Supercar owners and silly accidents are nothing new. Look it up on the internet to see the abundant amounts of supercars being crashed by overenthusiastic drivers.

Driving a car with over 500 horsepower is different from driving a vehicle with even 200 horsepower. They can go 0-100km/h in a blink of an eye. If the car from the incident is a Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera, even its 0-160kmh-0 time of 12.4 seconds can't stop it fast enough from ploughing into the sudden congestion on the road up ahead.

Even if the Superleggera came with optional ceramic brakes, it still would not have stopped the raging bull fast enough, which brings us to the saying, '
with great power comes great responsibility
'. For this case, the driver's responsibility was to drive slower on congested city roads where small and slower cars co-exist together.

The Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera has a 5204 cc V10 engine which pushes out 562 bhp and 540 Nm of torque. It can do 0-100km/h in 3.5 seconds and has a top speed of 325km/h.

In this instance, it clearly was a case of brain failure, not brake failure.


Proton X70 Special Edition (SE) Bakal Lancar Esok – Apa Yang Special?

Waktu yang mencabar bagi dunia automotif di Malaysia pada ketika ini tidak menghalang
PROTON
untuk melancarkan
Proton X70 Special Edition (SE)
 secara rasmi esok. Tapi special sangat ke?
Let’s find out!

Melalui sebuah hantaran di Facebook rasmi PROTON, pelancaran tersebut akan dilakukan secara maya pada hari Khamis, 22 Julai, jam 11 pagi secara LIVE menerusi laman Facebook rasminya. Tidak dinafikan, ada yang sedang menunggu-nunggu model ini dan ada juga yang masih
menunggu alat ganti untuk Proton X70
 mereka. Memandangkan model SE ini dibina menggunakan asas daripada varian
Premium X70
, jadi sudah tentu ada sedikit perubahan berbanding model asal.

*Kredit foto: Pad Motors Proton Brunei

Model ini telah dilancarkan di pasaran Brunei pada bulan Jun lalu sebagai
Proton X70 Exclusive Edition (EE)
. Walaupun negara kita dapat lambat, it’s better late than never, kan? Memandangkan nama model ini Special Edition, jom kita tengok sikit apa yang istimewa sangat pada model ini berbanding X70 biasa.

Warna Baharu Proton X70 SE 2021

Proton X70 SE akan tampil dengan dua pilihan warna baharu iaitu
Ocean Blue dan Ruby Red
. Pasaran Brunei hanya menerima warna Ocean Blue tetapi memandangkan Malaysia merupakan tuan rumah bagi PROTON, kita mestilah dapat lebih, kan? Warna Ocean Blue merupakan warna baharu bagi Proton X70 meskipun warna tersebut ada ditawarkan pada Proton X50.

Dwi Tona Proton X70 SE 2021

Kedua-dua warna pilihan bagi Proton X70 SE ini akan dicantikkan lagi dengan kemasan dwi tona pada beberapa bahagian pada badan kereta ini. Komponen seperti cermin sisi, spoiler belakang, dan bumbung X70 SE ini akan dicat hitam. Imej dwi tona ini kelihatan seakan-akan model Proton X70 Merdeka Edition yang dilancarkan pada Hari Kemerdekaan Malaysia pada tahun 2019.

Rim Baharu Proton X70 SE 2021

Perbezaan yang paling ketara sekali pada model ini semestinya kasut atau rim kereta ini sendiri yang menggunakan rim 19 inci yang sama digunakan pada
Geely Boyue Pro
. Seperti yang anda tahu, Proton X70 dibina menggunakan asas
Geely Boyue
, jadi Boyue Pro merupakan versi Facelift terkini bagi model asas Proton X70. Kira siapa yang pakai rim ini, mereka antara yang terawal untuk kearah perubahan.

*Kredit foto: Pad Motors Proton Brunei

Interior 'Special Edition' Proton X70 SE 2021

Penggunaan warna gelap yang memukau pada bahagian dalaman kereta ini menambah lagi keistimewaan model edisi khas ini kerana ia berbeza dengan warna perang yang ditawarkan pada model Premium dan Premium X. Tempat duduknya menerima balutan kulit Nappa berwarna hitam dengan kemasan jahitan halus berwarna hitam dan putih. Selain itu, ia turut hadir dengan karpet lantai dengan lencana SE. Terdapat juga emblem SE pada pintu tailgate belakang kereta ini.

Edisi Terhad Proton X70 SE 2021

Proton X70 SE ini hanya akan ditawarkan sebanyak 2,000 unit sahaja di pasaran negara ini. Di Brunei, Proton X70 EE hanya ditawarkan sebanyak 37 unit sahaja. Jadi alang-alang nak membeli, baik beli yang special sikit, kan? Barulah menyerlah sikit!

Walau bagaimanapun, tiada sebarang perubahan dari segi teknikal bagi model edisi khas ini. Proton X70 SE ini lebih kurang seperti
Proton X70 Merdeka Edition
 sahaja. Ia akan tetap menggunakan pacuan roda hadapan dan menggunakan enjin 1.8L dengan pengecas turbo empat silinder yang mampu menghasilkan 184 PS dan 300 Nm tork serta dipadankan bersama transmisi klac berkebar basah tujuh-kelajuan. Kalau nak penambahbaikan yang lebih padu pada X70, kena tunggu
Proton X70 MC1
 lah!

Sekiranya anda berminat dengan keistimewaan yang ditawarkan oleh Proton X70 SE yang terhad ini, anda sudah boleh membuat tempahan sekarang tanpa menunggu hari pelancaran. Cuma harganya hanya akan didedahkan selepas pelancarannya pada esok hari. Pada pandangan anda, berapa agaknya harga yang paling sesuai untuk model ini?

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

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All-new Perodua Axia TURBO coming to Malaysia in 2023?

The
Perodua Axia
 has been around since 2014, but can we expect to see a
brand-new model in 2023
?

There's a high probability of that happening, and multiple sources have indicated that its arrival might happen sooner than we initially expected. With that being said, what can we anticipate?

2023 Perodua Axia coming as early as February?

*Rendered Image credit:
Theophilus Chin

The Perodua Axia started its life here in Malaysia back in 2014 followed by a couple of facelifts in 2017 and 2019. Eight years is a long time for a car to be in production without having any brand-new model, but 2023 looks quite promising for the country's most budget-friendly car that you can buy brand-new.

For the 2023 model, it'll most likely share the same platform as the
Daihatsu Ayla
 and
Toyota Agya
 that are available in other markets like Indonesia. No details on the exterior design elements just yet, but we can also expect to see a watered-down, utilitarian, and budget-friendly production version of the
Perodua X-Concept
? One can dream.

Back to the real world, there are six offerings for the current Axia but that is set to change in a big way for 2023 and we might see it sometime within the first quarter of 2023 or as early as February.

2023 Perodua Axia to use the DNGA platform?

Codenamed "Project D74A", the 2023 Perodua Axia will most likely run the same
DNGA platform or "Daihatsu New Global Architecture"
 just like the current-generation Perodua Ativa and Perodua Alza.

Why? The evolution that is the DNGA platform has much bigger freedom to incorporate a lot more features and safety specs into any car it is based on. That and of course, a vast improvement in the overall driving experience, confidence, and comfort.

With that being said, will it have a big effect on pricing? Hard to say for now, but the Perodua Axia has always been known to be the most affordable brand-new car that you can buy here in the country, particularly the manual E variant that is priced at RM24,090 (OTR excluding insurance). Paling mahal? The Axia AV variant, and even that will only cost you a sensible RM43,910 for all the bells and whistles.

1.0L turbo or 1.2 NA?

We might see a slight reduction in the number of variants that the 2023 Perodua Axia will offer, but there's still the question of the powertrain. Being the people's car, it'll most likely maintain the very fuel-efficient 1,000cc engine, but which one?

Some sources have pointed towards the
Ativa's 998cc 1KR-VE turbocharged three-cylinder engine
 to be fitted in the range-topping model of the new Perodua Axia. That'll give it a power boost to 98PS and 140Nm of torque paired to the D-CVT automatic transmission.

There's also another possibility that the lower variants might be equipped with the 1.2-litre WA-VE engine with 88PS and 112Nm of torque paired to either a four-speed automatic. A five-speed manual might be made available, but most likely for the use of driving schools considering the fact that the public demand for manual cars has been dwindling over the years.

At the end of the day, the Perodua Axia remains the top budget car for the masses. That idealogy has maintained a steady and promising course over the years, and Perodua will most likely transfer that over to the new-generation model but with an added twist in the form of a more 'luxurious' range-topping model.

There's a chance that Perodua might delay its arrival just a bit longer to fulfill all the orders and bookings made in 2022 because knowing how Perodua works, their style is to launch the car together with announcing that they have already arrived at showrooms nationwide on the same day.

2023 might be another great year for Perodua. Is anybody else excited about the new Perodua Axia? We sure are.


Fuel Price Update: 5th to 11th January – Petrol 27 Sen, Diesel 14 Sen Lower

The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (KPDNHEP) has announced the price of petrol and diesel fuel starting tomorrow (January 5th) and will be valid for the next seven days.
Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng said in a statement that the Automatic Pricing Mechanism (APM) will be implemented from 12th January, and fuel prices will be updated weekly (on Friday) over a Saturday-Friday cycle.
In summary, the prices for petrol and diesel for the next 7 days are as listed below:
RON 95 –
RM1.93
per litre (decrease 27 sen from RM2.20)
RON 97 –
RM2.23
 per litre (decrease 27 sen from RM2.50)
Diesel –
RM2.04
 per litre (decrease 14 sen from RM2.18)
Diesel Euro 5M -
RM2.14
per litre (decrease 14 sen from RM2.28)
RON 97 Shell V-Power Racing - RM 3.10 per litre (decrease 30 sen from RM3.40)
Screen capture from The StarTV, dated 2nd January 2019
The Ministry of Finance (MoF) also added that the APM has taken into account the request by the Petroleum Dealers Association (PDAM) for a higher sales commission. As such, the margin for fuel station operators has increased to 15 sen per litre for RON 95 petrol and 10 sen a litre for diesel fuel.
This is an increase of 2.81 per litre and 3 sen per litre respectively. The statement added that this is the first increase since the year 2008.
Under Budget 2019, the Government
proposed to subsidize
 RON 95 fuel up to RM30 per month for cars with engine displacement 1,500 cc and below and RM12 per month for motorbikes under 125 cc in engine displacement. Trials are expected to begin in March, with full implementation targeted by the second half of 2019.
If there is a rise in crude oil prices before the full implementation of the targeted fuel subsidy, the
Government will temporarily cap
 the price of RON 95 petrol at RM2.20 and diesel at RM2.18.
RON 95 petrol is also planned for
 improvement in stages from July 2019
, upgraded from current Euro 2M to Euro 4M (lower sulphur content) specification. The plan is to have all fuel stations delivering only RON 95 and RON 97 petrol with Euro 4M specifications by January 2020.


10,000 bookings of the BYD Atto 3 in Thailand proves that it's one hot EV

The recently launched BYD Atto 3 is being well received in Thailand, and if booking figures in the Land of Smiles is anything to go by, it's just a simple telltale sign that the Atto 3 is one of the best packaged and value for money EVs in recent times.

When BYD launched the Atto 3 in Thailand back in October 2022, we bet they would have never imagined the reception it would be getting. It was so well received people actually started queuing up to buy the electric vehicle, ala iPhone style.

During the opening day of reservations, many Thais were actually queuing in front of the BYD showroom in an attempt to be one of the first people to own the EV from China.

It wasn't just a regular queue, it was one of those queues that started the night before, something out of a craze for a limited edition or apple product. Furthermore, the queues didn't just happen at one showroom because the line to book the car happened at BYD showrooms across Thailand.

Okay, we might be able to give the popularity of the Atto 3 the benefit of the doubt just by the number of crowds queuing up to book it, but recent booking figures in Thailand for the BYD Atto 3 all but confirm that the electric SUV is one hot product.

Since accepting reservations, the latest announcement by BYD about the Atto 3 in Thailand is that it has received 10,000 bookings for the car and are now planning to close the booking books for now as the quota has been exhausted.

BYD has even had to calmly notify those who have booked the Atto 3 early not to worry because 4,500 more cars just arrived in Thailand. However, they have mentioned that those who reserved late may have to wait a bit.

Whatever it is, and as a promise, BYD has told customers that whoever has reserved and confirmed the purchase during the opening period will get their Atto 3 by February 2023.

Will the Malaysian BYD Atto3 get this much attention? We want to know what you think, so leave us a comment.


Porsche Taycan Interior Revealed Ahead Of World Premiere Next Month

Porsche has finally revealed the interior of the Taycan, its upcoming all-electric sports car which is slated to make its global debut next month.
Inspired by the original 911's cleanly styled interior from 1963, the Taycan’s cockpit is clearly driver-focused, and comes with an instrument panel which has a clean, minimalist and ultra-modern design with very ergonomically positioned controls.
The free-standing, curved instrument cluster which forms the highest point on the dashboard consists of a curved 16.8-inch screen with the rounded look that's typical of Porsche.
Drivers can choose between four display modes for the instrument cluster:
Classic mode (power meter)
Map mode (replaces the central power meter with a map layout)
Full Map mode (Navigation map is displayed across the full display)
Pure mode (only essential driving information)
There are also small, touch-control fields at the edges of the screen for operating the light and chassis functions. The instrument cluster is therefore wider than the steering wheel and reminiscent of the iconic original 911.
The steering wheel has a light appearance too, with two models to choose from. In addition to the basic version, which can be customised with coloured inserts as part of the accent package, Porsche also offers a GT sports steering wheel option.
Taking centre stage is a 10.9-inch infotainment display and an optional passenger display, which are combined to form an integrated glass band in a black-panel look, blending in visually with the interior.
All user interfaces have been completely re-designed for the Taycan as well, with the number of traditional hardware controls, such as switches and buttons reduced significantly.
Instead, control is intelligent and intuitive – via touch operation or a voice control function that responds to the command “Hey Porsche”.
The driver can also quickly access all apps via a clearly structured and customisable home screen. Apps include navigation, telephone, media, comfort and Porsche Connect.
Like the Porsche 918, the Taycan also has a compact direction selector switch in the instrument panel instead of the classic selector lever. This gives the centre console a tidy look and creates storage space.
The Taycan’s colour and material design allows for individualised equipment, from traditional through to sustainable and modern. There is also the option of classic leather as well as the sustainably tanned Club Leather “OLEA”, which uses olive leaves in the tanning process.
Last but not least, the optional interior accent package gives customers a choice of special contrasting colour schemes in black matt, dark silver or neodyme, an elegant champagne tone.
Interior aside, what we know so far is that it will be come with all-wheel drive, driven by a pair of electric motors producing over 600 hp in combined output.
The sprint from 0-100 km/h will be achieved in under 3.5 seconds, while driving range will be in excess of 500 km. In terms of design, it will closely resemble the Porsche Mission E Concept.
Besides that, rumour has it that the car might be
coming to Malaysia next year
.
Looking for a new Porsche? Get the best deals
here
.


Fuel Price Update: 5 – 11 April - No changes

The Ministry of Domestic Trade, Cooperatives, and Consumerism (KPDNKK) has announced new fuel prices for the next seven days and there is no change in the prices.
This is the second week in succession that the prices remain stagnant (since 22
nd
 March)
RON95 –
RM2.20
per litre (no change)
RON97 –
RM2.47
 per litre (no change)
Diesel –
RM2.18
 per litre (no change)


2015 Nissan Almera Facelift 1.5L VL Review - Can A Facelift Lift its Fortunes?

Though we all have that dream car that we tell ourselves that we will someday own at some point in our lives, no other car bears a higher significance to a person’s life than their first. In the mid-1960s the car that was credited with giving Japan’s growing middle class their first automotive experience was the original Nissan B10 Sunny. In the early-1980s, the B10’s descendent, the Nissan B11 Sunny became the first car for many Malaysians. And now in the decade of 2010s, the Nissan Almera repeated that feat by offering many Malaysians their first taste of non-national car ownership.
When the Almera first made its debut here in 2012, its attractive pricing, huge cabin space, and comfy ride, certainly grabbed the attention of plenty of customers who were either looking for their first car, or looking to upgrade themselves to a non-national make.
Earlier this year the Almera was given a facelift, which saw the Almera getting huge new halogen headlights, piano black dashboard trim on the inside, and new rims. Though the changes were mostly cosmetic with its specifications retained.
2015 Nissan Almera Facelift 1.5L VL Specifications
Price: RM79,817 OTR with insurance
Engine: 1,498cc 4-cylinder HR15DE
Power: 102hp @ 6,000rpm
Torque: 139Nm @ 4,000rpm
Transmission: 4-speed automatic, front-wheel drive
Safety: Dual front airbags, ABS with EBD and Brake Assist, ISOFIX child seat mounting points
Origin: Locally assembled at ETCM plant in Serendah
Exterior
While the Almera wasn’t exactly a looker when it first came out three years ago, the facelift’s changes hasn’t elevated it looks in an entirely positive manner either. Instead its oversized headlights, which looked like it was meant to be fitted to a car two sizes larger, coupled to its narrow and pinched grille, will leave even more opinions divided.
Love it or hate, at least you can say that the facelift has added a little more personality and flavour over the pre-facelift’s otherwise bland and gormless front expression. Other than the changes done to its face, Nissan has left the rest of the Almera’s elongated body and taillights untouched. Not that looks were the main attraction with the Almera in the first place, and it wouldn’t be surprising if the recent changes were enough to reverse the Almera’s fortunes.
Interior
Upgrades to the interior on the other hand has been a little more successful. The addition of gloss black dashboard trim and Nissan’s sleek triangular steering wheel that now come fitted with steering mounted controls, does elevate the ambience inside by a notch. The test unit seen here is specified with the optional RM6,128 Navi DVD package, which comes with iPod, USB, and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as a reverse camera functionality. With the infotainment system installed, the Almera comes with a USB/AUX interface port that is conveniently located on storage panel above the glovebox.
Otherwise the Almera’s interior is pretty much the same as before. It is solidly built, simple, straightforward, and spacious. The rotary dial air-conditioning controller takes some getting used to, and there are just enough usable storage bins in front to store your personal belongings, with two front cup holders, a small bin in the centre console, and additional storage space in the front door pockets.
Around the back there is plenty of rear legroom for rear seat occupants to stretch their legs and lounge in comfort, with soft-cosseting seats. That being said, storage spaces are limited to two cup holders on the centre console and two more cup holders incorporated into the fold-down middle armrest, as there are strangely no storage bins moulded into the rear door panels.
How does it drive?
The best way to describe the Almera’s driving character is competent but on the side of being dull. While the Almera’s road holding characteristics is good, its steering is slow in response and yet feels inert with an overly assisted feel to it. Its steady ride and cushy suspension makes the Almera more suited to munching highway distances in relative comfort.
As for its powertrain Nissan had made sure that the Almera’s 1.5-litre 4-cylinder engine is better suited for economical driving, with a smooth-running nature and relatively generous amounts of low-end torque in reserve. The 4-speed automatic too shifts between the gears smoothly and it is well geared for higher cruising speeds and better fuel efficiency rather than delivering quick acceleration off the line.
How comfortable is it?
From the moment we got behind the wheel of the Almera, it becomes clear that the Almera has been imbued with a comfort-oriented nature. With its soft sprung suspension, the Almera glides with relative ease over bumps, while its plush seats offer plenty of cushioning, and its long wheelbase lends it a settled ride quality.
To add to its comfy ride, the Almera is properly insulated all around, which does a better than average job in supressing exterior wind and tyre noise for its class of car. Whereas thanks to the engine’s torquey nature, the powertrain is smooth and refined so long as you don’t push the engine hard.
How economical is it?
On our drive through city stop-go traffic, long highway jaunts at speeds averaging in the 100km/h region, the Almera managed to return a fuel consumption figure of 8.2L/100km, which is around the average figure you would expect coming from a car of its class.
As for service intervals, Nissan has given the Almera a service interval of 10,000km or every six months. According to figures quoted from Tan Chong Ekspres Auto Servis, the total cost for a 5-year/100,000km ownership of an automatic-equipped Almera, in accordance to its preventive maintenance schedule stands at RM3,882. This cost is not inclusive of any additional service or part replacements that is not listed in their preventive maintenance schedule.
Safety Features
When the Almera first appeared on our shores, its ensemble of safety features of dual airbags, ABS with EBD and brake assist, and ISOFIX child seat anchor points was considered to be the industry standard, back in 2012. Those goalposts however has since been shifted, and rather unfortunately the absence of stability control with the recent facelift for a sub-RM80,000 car of its class does put a dent in its appeal today.
Conclusion
If you are one looking for excitement, speed, and youthful enthusiasm, you won’t find it in the Almera. Its smooth drivetrain, ride comfort, and soft seats, along with its steady handling traits and ample cabin space, makes it more suited at doing the daily long distance commute. Rather than seeking to excite drivers, the Almera is best at taking the edge and stress off your daily commute, which is what most people look for in their everyday cars.
Though the changes are mostly cosmetic, the Almera facelift still relies on its attractive price as a tempting proposition just as it did when it first debut three years ago. With prices for the base model starting from RM66,835 the Almera serves as an attractive entry point into a new non-national car ownership. Though that holds true today as it did in 2012, the market of 2015 has changed, with more options available that offer nearly the same amount of practicality and better equipment specification than the Almera, for a little bit extra. You might also be interested in the
Honda City
 - it's costs a little bit more but the extras are worth every bit.


Raya 2016: Mitsubishi to Offer up to RM8k Cash Rebates and 5-Year Warranty

Customers who book and register a new
Mitsubishi
 vehicle by 31 July this year stand to enjoy cash rebates of up to RM8,000 in addition to extended warranty coverage of up to five years depending on model.
Outlander:
1-year free service covering labour
5-year / 100,000km warranty
Triton VGT Adventure
:
Up to RM7,500 cash rebates
3-year / 100,000km warranty
ASX
:
Up to RM8,000 cash rebates
5-year unlimited mileage warranty
Customers who finance their purchase with Maybank are entitled to a special interest rate of 1.8% per annum.
Existing Mitsubishi customers, meanwhile, can take advantage of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia’s
Servis Raya Sama-Sama Ceria
 happening concurrently. Customers who incur invoices exceeding RM400 at any authorized service centre will have labour charges absolved.


Mercedes-AMG: No More Rear-Wheel Drive Models From 2021 Onwards

According to Tobias Moers, the head of the Mercedes-AMG, all future AMG models, starting from 2021 will be sold exclusively with electrified All-Wheel Drive (AWD) powertrains.
Mercedes Blog
 reports that over the course of the next two years, the rear-wheel driven variants will progressively be struck off the model range, in favour of electrified AWD variants as a result of strong market demand.
Moers adds, “Customers have come up with a response, and most of them want all-wheel-drive versions. When we are offering a standard rear-wheel drive model and full traction was only on the optional list, over 90% of customers were selecting 4Matic versions,”
Moers adds that even in the case of the Mercedes-AMG GT sports car, most customers are always asking about the 4Matic system. He concurs that most AMG customers are also interested in safety and stability as much as performance and style.
Currently, there are three main types of electro-mechanical AMG AWD systems, depending on the model range:
AMG Performance Variable 4Matic AWD:
 Fully variable (up 100 percent) torque split to the front or rear axle based on road conditions. Uses an electrohydraulic multi-plate clutch system integrated into the rear axle. FWD in default mode for better fuel economy. Found in the ‘45’ series models.
AMG Performance Permanent 4Matic AWD:
 Power is split 31:69 or 40:60 between the front and rear axles respectively from a standing start. The system permanently to all four wheels. Found in the ‘43’ series (C-Class – all body styles, GLC, GLC Coupe) and ‘63’ series SUV models (GLE 63/S and GLS 63).
AMG Performance Variable 4MATIC+ AWD:
 Multiplate clutch system, can transition from all-wheel drive to 100 percent rear-wheel drive. Found in the E63/S Sedan and Wagon, and S63.
For the latest deals on Mercedes-Benz vehicles, click
here
.


Lagi Ford Mustang Terbabas – Teruk Sangatkah Kereta Ini?

Menerusi rakaman video dashcam yang dikongsi di sebuah akaun
Facebook
, sebuah
Ford Mustang
 kelihatan memecut laju ketika cuaca hujan menyebabkan kenderaan terbabit terbabas ke tepi jalan.

Ketika kejadian, kawasan terbabit berada dalam keadaan hujan renyai namun permukaan jalan yang amat basah menandakan hujan lebat baru sahaja berlalu. Faktor jalan yang licin mungkin menjadi penyebab utama kemalangan ini.  Dalam video tersebut, jalan yang dilalui itu lurus sahaja. Mungkin kereta tersebut terbabas ketika cuba memotong kenderaan lain dengan menukar lane pada kelajuan tinggi.

*Kredit Video: Malaysian Crime Watch

Permukaan jalan serta tayar turut berkait rapat dalam pemanduan sesebuah kenderaan. Keadaan tayar yang kurang baik juga bakal mencacatkan prestasi jentera. Kalau dah kereta tu mampu untuk memecut sehingga 250 km/h, tayar mesti kena padu untuk tampung kelajuan tersebut.

Ini bukan kali pertama kita dengar Ford Mustang terlibat dalam kemalangan jalan raya di negara ini, kan? Ramai yang tak tahu meskipun Mustang ini berharga dalam lingkungan empat ratus ribu keatas, namun ciri-ciri keselamatannya agak rendah? Kalau anda ingat mahal itu maksudnya selamat, anda silap! Tak semua kereta mahal itu lengkap dengan ciri-ciri keselamatan.

Berdasarkan penilaian keselematan
EURO NCAP
, Ford Mustang tahun 2015 hanya memperolehi 2 bintang sahaja daripada lima bintang. Bahkan model tersebut juga tidak mempunyai AEB. Bila tiada AEB, maka semakin kuranglah sistem bantuan untuk mengelak dan mengurangkan kebarangkalian kemalangan tersedia untuk pemandu.

Berdasarkan keputusan yang ditunjukkan pada patung ujian, keselamatan anda ketika kemalangan berlaku akan lebih terjamin sekiranya anda duduk di tempat duduk hadapan. Kalau duduk belakang, peratusan keselamatan anda itu lebih tipis. Jadi kalau ada kawan-kawan anda yang pelawa naik Mustang kepunyaannya tapi duduk di belakang, kena fikir dua kali dulu lah.

Selepas mendapat dua bintang, beberapa penambahan dilakukan pada model Mustang 2017 seperti Lane Keeping Aid dan Pre-Collision Assist yang merangkumi sistem pengesan pejalan kaki, amaran pelanggaran di hadapan and brek kecemasan autonomi. Hasilnya, model ini berjaya mendapat 3 bintang daripada Euro NCAP.

Meskipun ciri-ciri keselamatan pada kereta masa kini semakin canggih, namun ia hanyalah berfungsi untuk mengurangkan risiko kemalangan, bukanlah mencegah kemalangan 100%. Segalanya bergantung pada pemandu. Pengalaman dalam mengendalikan kereta berkelajuaan tinggi seperti ini amat ditagih pada pemandu bagi memastikan jentera dapat dikawal dengan baik dalam kelajuan yang tinggi. Kalau tidak, memang out lah. Kalau anda seorang pemandu yang berpengalaman, kekurangan ciri keselamatan pada Ford Mustang ini pun tak terasa pada diri anda.

Walaupun menerima pengiktirafan yang rendah daripada Euro NCAP, mengapakah jentera ini masih popular di Malaysia? Jawapannya adalah kerana perspektif masyarakat. Perasan atau tidak, Ford Mustang kebanyakannya dijadikan tanda kejayaan seseorang usahawan lebih lebih lagi mereka yang terlibat dengan MLM. Bila orang bawahan dah nampak leader pakai Mustang, mesti kelam kabut nak turut serta kan? Terpaksalah push sale demi Mustang sering muncul di kaca TV serta layar filem antarabangsa.

Tapi ada juga peminat setia Ford Mustang ini di Malaysia. Mana taknya, Mustang 2015 merupakan model pertama yang hadir dengan konfigurasi pemanduan sebelah kanan. Nak drive kat Malaysia pun tak pening! Bukan itu sahaja, kalau nak beli kereta Mustang recond, buat pinjaman bank pun boleh lepas. Kalau meminjam ni tak rasa sangat betul tak? Asalkan tak makan pasir la lepas beli sebab dah perabis duit beli Mustang.

Apa-apa pun, kemalangan boleh terhasil daripada banyak perkara. Kadang-kadang, kemalangan yang kita alami bukan berpunca daripada diri kita pun. Sebab itu kena berhati-hati di jalan raya.

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Getting Into The Qs – First Driving Impressions Of The Audi Q2, Q5, Q7, and Q8

After what seems like a long hiatus, Audi is back with a bang in Malaysia. All at once, the brand has introduced a salvo of SUV models ranging from the Q2, Q5, Q7, and Q8 flagship SUV. The introduction of the four new SUVs mark a comeback of sorts for the Audi brand in Malaysia and also brings the total product portfolio to six, taking into account the
A4
 and TT models.
In addition to the official introduction, we had some time behind the wheel of all four of Ingolstadt’s finest. Here’s what you need to know.
Audi Q2 Sport 1.4 TFSI – RM219,900 Excluding Insurance
The Q2 is Audi’s smallest SUV ever – it slots in just under the Q3 compact SUV and represents a youthful and funky entrance into the Q-family. Based on the company’s MQB platform, the Audi Q2 is aimed squarely at grabbing a share of the premium compact crossover segment currently filled in by the
Mercedes-Benz GLA
,
BMW X1
, and
MINI Countryman
.
Specifications:
Engine: 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder
Power: 150 hp at 5,000 – 6,000 rpm
Torque: 250 Nm at 1,500 – 3,500 rpm
Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic, front-wheel drive
Performance: 0-100 km/h: 8.5 seconds, Top Speed: 212 km/h
Economy: 5.3 litres/100 km (combined)
Safety: 6 airbags, ABS, ESC, Hill Hold Assist, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Equipment highlights: Start/Stop system, Cruise Control, Progressive Steering, LED headlights, LED DRLs, Audi Drive Select, Virtual Cockpit, Audi MMI Plus, 10-speaker (180 W) Audi Sound System
How does it drive?
In a word, lively! It’s a fun little compact SUV with a taste for the bends. Along the windy roads of Genting Highlands, the Q2 exhibited superb body control, agile handling, and a poised ride without being overly rigid. The steering is quick and responsive and there’s a substantial difference to the car’s demeanour as you cycle through the various Drive Select modes. The engine is a stout performer and offers predictable torque delivery just above 2,000 rpm and pulls cleanly right up to its redline.
The interior, with its swanky red inlays, create a nice youthful feel and the ergonomics of the various switchgear are spot on. You sit low in the supportive seats which instantly instills confidence. The interior is somewhat let down by the hard plastics in the door panels and slightly flimsy (though nicely designed) air-conditioning vents.
Audi Q5 Sport 2.0 TFSI Quattro – RM339,900 Excluding Insurance
The second-generation of Audi’s most successful SUV model boasts an improved quattro AWD system, a more spacious and up to date cabin space, and lighter overall kerb weight despite growing in size. Two new drive modes are now available: Lift/Offroad and Allroad to underscore better all-weather performance. The Audi Q5 will take on a crowded field of mid-sized premium SUVs such as the Mercedes-Benz GLC, BMW X3, and Lexus NX.
Specifications:
Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder, variable valve timing
Power: 252 hp at 5,000 – 6,000 rpm
Torque: 370 Nm at 1,600 – 4,500 rpm
Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic, all-wheel drive
Performance: 0-100 km/h: 6.3 seconds, Top Speed: 237 km/h
Economy: 7.4 litres/100 km (combined)
Safety: 6 airbags, ABS, ESC, Hill Hold Assist, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Equipment highlights: Start/Stop system, Progressive Steering, Three-Zone Climate Control, Drive Select, Virtual Cockpit, MMI Plus, Audi Connect, Rear Camera, 10-speaker (180 W) Audi Sound System
How does it drive?
The most impressive aspect of driving the Q5 is its predictability. At low speeds, the progressive steering is nice and light – and despite its size – is surprisingly pliable in traffic; there’s a real sense that the car wraps around you to help you build confidence. Push the throttle harder though and the engine surges with immediate torque – a long, flat torque curve allows for superb in-gear acceleration and overall pace. The 7-speed dual-clutch is intuitive and instantly reacts to the driver’s inputs with regards to upshifts and downshifts; traction levels, as you might surmise, are sublime.
In terms of outright performance, it's right up there with the Mercedes-Benz GLC 250 but where the Q5 manages to be a tad better than its Stuttgart rival is in the tighter bends – the Q5 is very composed during quick steering transitions and its mid-corner balance is about as good as it gets in this segment. The interior is well thought out and finished with typical Audi precision. One complaint though is that I wish I could be seated lower in the driver's seat to be better integrated with the driving experience.
Audi Q7 3.0 TFSI Quattro – RM599,900 Excluding Insurance
The ‘big daddy’ quattro is a statement of the high-tech competence of Audi. The Audi Q7 is circa 325 kgs lighter than in its predecessor, making it the lightest car in the premium 7-seater SUV segment. Along with a more luxurious and spacious interior, the rear luggage compartment in the seven-seater model has the flexibility of altering its capacity from 295 liters to a whopping 1,955 liters. Performance is buoyed by a new engine, eight-speed tiptronic transmission, and improved quattro permanent all-wheel drive. The Audi Q7 will arguably have the toughest hill to climb, taking on established rivals such as the BMW X5, Volvo XC90, and Mercedes-Benz GLE.
Specifications:
Engine: 3.0-litre supercharged V6
Power: 333 hp at 5,500 – 6,500 rpm
Torque: 440 Nm at 2,900 – 5,300 rpm
Transmission: 8-speed automatic, all-wheel drive
Performance: 0-100 km/h: 6.3 seconds, Top Speed: 250 km/h
Economy: 7.9 litres/100 km (combined)
Safety: 8 airbags, ABS, ESC, Hill Hold Assist, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Equipment highlights: Adaptive Suspension, Four-Zone Climate Control, Park Assist with Surround View Cameras, MMI Navigation Plus with MMI Touch, Audi Connect, Bang & Olufsen Sound System, Virtual Cockpit, Drive Select
How does it drive?
There a sense of calm when you get into a Q7. Shutting the door and sliding into its supportive seats instantly cocoons you within a tranquil space void of the disturbances from the outside. The interior is expansive and functional, and practically everything you see, hear, and touch exudes quality and execution. I personally believe the Volvo XC90 still has a better mix of materials and contours on the inside, but it’s no deal breaker. The third row is easy enough to access by dropping the outer 2nd-row seats and does seem like it will accommodate children rather well. The Bang & Olufsen stereo system, on the other hand, offers great depth and sound quality.
Given that my time spent behind the wheel was mostly on straight highway sections, I can confirm that the Q7 will make for a sublime mega-mile cruiser. The engine operates effortlessly at the speed limit and this Goliath will hit upwards of 180 km/h in very short order if required. While the output numbers are impressive, don’t expect neck-snapping acceleration as the supercharged V6 is set up to be very tractable and linear, and it fits the overall demeanour of the car well. The steering (though slightly vague) is progressive and predictable, making the Q7 a good steer at both low and high speeds. The brakes too are monstrous and cut off the car's momentum with impressive authority.
Audi Q8 3.0 TFSI Quattro – RM727,900 Excluding Insurance
The Audi Q8 combines the spaciousness and ergonomics typical of an SUV with the elegant body line of a four-door coupé. At 4.99 meters long, 2.00 meters wide, and 1.71 meters tall, the Q8 is wider, shorter and lower than its Q7 sister model, but with a wheelbase of nearly 3.00 meters, it also offers ample passenger comfort and practicality. The suave design – in particular, the roofline, sloping C-Pillar, and blistered wheel arches – echo Audi’s legendary Ur-quattro model from the 80s. The Audi Q8 will take on other premium rivals such as the BMW X6, Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, and Porsche Cayenne.
Specifications:
Engine: 3.0-litre turbocharged V6, 48V mild hybrid system
Power: 340 hp at 5,200 – 6,400 rpm
Torque: 440 Nm at 1,370 – 4,500 rpm
Transmission: 8-speed automatic, all-wheel drive
Performance: 0-100 km/h: 5.9 seconds, Top Speed: 250 km/h
Economy: 8.9 litres/100 km (combined)
Safety: 8 airbags, ABS, ESC, Hill Hold Assist, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Equipment highlights: Adaptive Suspension, All-Wheel Steering, Audi Pre Sense (Front), HD Matrix LED headlights, Four-Zone Climate Control, Park Aid Plus with Surround View Cameras, Panoramic Glass Sunroof, Head-Up Display, MMI Navigation Plus with MMI Touch, Audi Connect, Bang & Olufsen (3D) Sound System, Soft Door Closing, Virtual Cockpit
How does it drive?
Jumping from the Q7 into the Q8, the first thing one realises once you press the accelerator pedal is just how much more manic the acceleration is, and how much of a difference that mild hybrid system makes. Torque (60 Nm more than in the Q7) is almost instantaneous at any speed, augmented perfectly by Q8’s 8-speed automatic. It feels even faster than the quoted 5.9 seconds 0-100 km/h time that the brochure reads. The Q8 belies its huge proportions in the corners with excellent handling characteristics: great on turn-in, poised mid-corner, and explosive on corner exits, the Q8 feels even lither than the
Porsche Cayenne
 we recently tested. I would appreciate a bit more steering feel in the Q8; having limited feedback is arguably forgivable in the Q7, but in a car like the Q8, it goes a long way – this is a driver’s car through-and-through.
The interior is equally impressive; the central highlight element being the MMI touch response display which sits flush with black dashboard fascia, just below, the digital climate control touchscreen give the Q8 an air of sophistication and exclusivity. The seats are comfortable and offer nice support all round, but I would love a tad bit more storage space and cubby holes for knick-knacks at the front.


5-STAR Asean NCAP - The Alza Is A Budget MPV Rich With Standard Safety Features

The
new 2022 Alza
 gets a 5-Star NCAP rating - and the main reason for it is due to Perodua's generosity of kitting out the 7-seater with a lot of safety kit as standard.

While it's a given that most buyers are first attracted to a car's looks, more and more motorists are choosing their cars based on their exterior design as well as their safety features.

With a
record-breaking number of bookings
 for Perodua, we're pretty sure that some buyers have chosen the all-new Perodua Alza because it has a
5-star Asean NCP rating
.

One of the reasons why it has
received such high praise
 from Asean NCAP is because it comes standard across the range with passive safety features such as 6 airbags, Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, and parking sensors.

But it doesn't end there because the new Alza is the latest vehicle in Perodua's lineup to get Perodua's Smart Drive Assist (PSDA) as a standard feature.

All variants of the Alza come with the Advanced Safety Assist (ASA) suite of safety features, which kits out the 7-seater with:

Pre-Collision Braking (Autonomous Emergency Braking)

Pedal Misoperation Control

Front Departure Alert

Lane Departure Warning

Lane Departure Prevention (lane keeping assist)

LED Auto High Beam

Now that's an
impressive list of safety features
, especially when you consider that you are getting it in the base car, the Alza 1.5L X, which costs only RM62,500.

As for the safety features for the
top variant, the 1.5L AV
, you get to add all the above with Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capabilities as it comes with:

Adaptive Cruise Control

Lane Keep Control

Blind Spot Monitoring

Rear Cross Traffic Alert

360° Panoramic View Monitor

Adaptive Driving Beam

That Adaptive Driving Beam is actually an exciting bit of kit. It's more sophisticated than the regular headlight found on the base variant and is standard for the H and AV models.

The Matrix headlights utilises the windscreen camera on the Alza to virtually allow you to have your high beams on all the time. It does this by switching off certain high beam diodes in certain situations, which allows it to light up specific areas without blinding other motorists.

It's not something new as it was first seen on the Ativa AV, but we feel that it is a bit underappreciated, especially at the prices Perodua vehicles are going for.

For those who think that the Alza is a flimsy bit of tin can, the NCAP testers also found that the Alza "remained stable and provided good protection to the occupants" during the frontal offset test (which is basically a head-on collision test). They also found that during the side impact test, the driver and passengers had adequate protection.

When you consider the safety aspect of the MPV and its other attributes like being able to carry seven passengers comfortably, there's little wonder why it has shattered Perodua's booking records.

After eight years since the last Alza
, Perodua has definitely taken a huge leap by giving an MPV to the people, which can be heavily considered as the
most value for money MPV in the market
. Your move Proton!


Porsche Unveils A New 935 At The Rennsport Reunion

For those who weren't watching motorsports since the 1970s, the Porsche 935 is a quirky racecar with a storied and rather successful history, whether in the hands of Porsche themselves or under Kremer with their K2, K3, and K4 versions.
In a rather interesting turn of events, Porsche had decided to revive that three-digit badge for a limited run of 77 units, and it can be yours for a whopping 701,948 Euros (RM 3,372,585.49). That's a huge amount of money, but it is an iconic shape and a great throwback to the glory days, and definitely something unique in both form and function.
Sadly, you won't be able to drive it on the road. It's a "clubsport racer", which means you'll only be allowed to enjoy it within the confines of a track. The styling is clearly inspired by the original 935, but the base of this new model is a 991 GT2 RS, with a narrower body at 2.03 meters and an overall length of 4.87 meters.
Performance comes from a turbocharged 3.8-litre flat six, derived from the one in the GT2 RS and pushing 700 hp. Weight stands at 1,380 kg, which comes from lighter materials in the body shell such as aluminium-steel composites and carbon-fibre Kevlar. There's even an FIA-compliant removable escape hatch in the roof, for the serious track rat.
The flat sides are a throwback to yesteryear, where form was very much determined by aerodynamics - primitive in those days, but effective nonetheless. The headlights are much less pronounced, with a slantnose front end that's long been missing from the Porsche lineup.
Paintwork comes in a singular Agate Gray, with the Martini livery being optional. 18-inch wheels up front and rear, 11.5 inches and 13 inches wide respectively, form the base of the wheel setup and the car is delivered with transport tyres, to be swapped out for the performance tyre of your choice.
It's an interesting step for Porsche, which has more recently been looking to the past for inspiration for the future. What's more interesting is the fact that this is a car that hasn't been sold out before release, which is the case with most limited edition models - possibly because of its rather limited market and collector's value.


Review: 2021 Mercedes-AMG E63 S 4Matic+ - The Everyday Muscle Car

The previous Mercedes-AMG E63 S was good at everything except for one thing. Has Mercedes-AMG ironed out its one flaw and turned it into a better all-rounder in the facelift version?

The current Mercedes-AMG E63 S is a retweaked and updated version of Mercedes-AMG's (5th-Gen) super saloon. It's labelled as many things, including the most pugnacious super saloon, ideal German muscle car and the ultimate big boy toy.

For those uninitiated with the Mercedes-AMG E63 S, the beast from Stuttgart is a fire-breathing jacked-up version of the E-Class saloon. It is based on the docile E-Class but comes with an oversized 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine that puts the living fear in those who can't tame it.

Specifications of the 2021 Mercedes-AMG E63 S 4Matic+

Engine: M178 4.0 litre twin-turbo V8 petrol

Transmission: Nine-speed AMG Speedshift MCT 9G transmission/ AMG Performance 4Matic+ variable all-wheel drive system.

Power: 612PS

Torque: 850Nm

0-100 km/h: 3.4 seconds

Top speed is 300 km/h

The E63 S is an expensive bit of machinery,
coming in at RM1.118 million
 - but it does come with a lot of attributes that make it special, including AMG's magical engineering of making big and heavy chunks of metal feel like a lightweight hot hatch.

The thing is, the Mercedes-AMG E63 S has always had the sports bit down to a tee, but what it lacked was the balance of the BMW M5, which could switch easily from being a boisterous saloon to one that can cart your family around comfortably. Has Mercedes-AMG fixed this? We took one out recently to find out.

Exterior and Interior - so what's new?

The current E63 S joined the
 E-Class refresh in 2021
, which updated the headlamps, taillights, and grille, albeit with the Panamericana chrome vertical bars.

If you're wondering why it looks meaner than your
average E-Class
, the E 63 S comes with the AMG Night Package as standard, which gives the super saloon a high-gloss black finish on various exterior elements, including window frames, bits of trim on the bumpers and the side mirror caps. Even the tailpipe trim has been given the 'Night' treatment as it is finished in black chrome.

The exterior enhancements do not end there either as the E63 S comes with AMG Exterior Carbon-Fibre Package, which adds a carbon-fibre front splitter and fender trim pieces.

While most would agree that the outside is tastefully done, the inside is a bit like marmite, as some would love it and others hate it. The interior has this blend of black, yellow, and carbon fibre dotted all around the cabin, which we suppose is Mercedes' attempt to make the cabin sporty yet classy.

Whether you like it or not, one thing is for sure: the AMG-specific Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) system with two 12.3-inch displays and AMG Performance steering wheel, which sits in front of the AMG-powered front seats, really does remind you that the car is not an ordinary E-Class.

Powertrain - If it ain't broke, don't fix it!

One thing that Mercedes-AMG has left alone in the updated car is all the mechanical bits under the shell -
no one seemed to complain about it
, so why change it if it ain't broke.

There's still 612 PS and 850 Nm of torque coming out of the 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, and the car can still make the 0-100 km/h sprint in 3.4 seconds. The sheer force and sound it makes will get most drivers feeling giddy in no time, which we believe is one of its best selling points.

Another one of its strong points is its ability to defy the logic of its gas-guzzling engine, because thanks to cylinder deactivation technology, the AMG can be somewhat frugal, one that is comparable to a four-cylinder engine. When we took it for a fuel consumption run, the powerful AMG engine returned 11L/100km, which is not bad for a 4.0-litre V8.

The nine-speed AMG Speedshift MCT 9G transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ variable all-wheel-drive system also helps the driver carve corners like it's a small hatchback and the car still feels accurate around corners which is satisfying, especially when you consider the size of the car, which really does seem to defy the laws of physics.

But, the four-door AMG has always been good at providing drivers with driving thrills, the thing that it lacked the most was passenger comfort. So have they rectified it?

Well, according to Mercedes-AMG, they have re-tuned the suspension, used some new bushings all around and included a new subframe carrier at the rear to help with the cause. While the car stills feel as taut and firm as ever, the harshness is no longer there, which makes the car a more rounded machine.

So, the E63 S steers as good as before, gives you great confidence as before, gives you as much information from the wheels as before, but now comes with increased comfort for passengers. To do this without diminishing what drivers love about the car can be considered an achievement because usually, some things have to make way for the other thing to be better.

Conclusion

Because of its
four doors and size
, some say the E63 S is in no way a weekend car, but actually, it was in no way a weekday car. Because it did all of the sporty driving bits perfectly, you can thrash it around back roads on the weekend without a problem. It just had difficulties doing the day-to-day driving bit, which now it can thanks to its improved comfort.

To be able to provide seven days of driving brings the E63 S to the standard of the all-rounder BMW M5, and perhaps even better because now that it has the comfort side dialled in, you can finally appreciate the engine. It is addictive to use and quick to respond which turns any driver behind its wheel into a giggling little kid! Oh, what joy!


Toyota Rush Now Gets Saucy Red Metallic Colour, Prices Unchanged From RM88k

The Toyota Rush has gained a snazzy new Red Metallic colour to complement its urban SUV looks. The Toyota Rush, as we all know is a
7-seater SUV designed alongside the Perodua Aruz SUV
.

There are no price changes for the new colour, which compliments the existing four colours: white, silver metallic, blue metallic, and dark grey metallic.
The Rush
 is priced at RM88,314 for the 1.5L ‘G’ and RM91,885 for the ‘S’ variant with current SST exemptions valid until the end of June.

The Rush is powered by a 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder which outputs 105PS and 136Nm at 4,200rpm sending power to the rear wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission.

There are
no differences to the specs
 – with the S variant notably offering Toyota 360-T safety suite which includes Pre-collision Warning, Pre-collision Braking, Front Departure Alert, and Pedal Misoperation Control as well as front fog lights, leather upholstery, and steering wheel controls.

Other standard features include Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), 6-airbags, Hill-start Assist Control (HAC), Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA).

Is this saucy new Red Metallic Rush enough of a gamechanger to make you consider it over the Aruz?

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Ford Ranger 2019- ASEAN Versus USA Designs

When Ford announced the return of the Ford Ranger to the USA early in January this year, we were excited that the design was different to the then-ASEAN Ranger design.
This led to the belief that the new design will make its way to the on the facelift cycle of 2018/2019, into one global Ford Ranger look.
Nope. Not at all. Comparing the just-launched Ford Ranger facelift in Thailand and the upcoming Ford Ranger USA that is scheduled for deliveries in early 2019, the differences, although minor, are quite different.
While the USA does not have the Ranger Wildtrak variant, many of the design elements of the USA-market Ford Ranger Lariat are featured on the
facelifted ASEAN Ranger Wildtrak
.
The front design
Both ASEAN and USA design share the same grille design. However, the front bumper of the USA design is split into two, make the grille in a one-piece structure, while the ASEAN Wildtrak is part of the bumper moulding.
The lower half of the USA design is also more significantly styled, with more ‘chunky’ sections and intake holes. This lower half portion is also in black, unlike the ASEAN design, which looks more like a one-piece design with more body colour and the fog lamps surround only in black.
The bonnet on the USA design also looks different, with two length-wise humps creating a higher-look at the leading edge of the bonnet.
The side design
There are tasteful grey painted wheelarch trimmings in the USA design. The North American Ranger also has less gloss black treatment, as the four door handles and side mirrors are in body colour as opposed to the ASEAN design.
Yes, the USA design has cool-looking tube LED lighting for their side marker lamps, a regulation that is only found in the USA. The 18-inch wheels in both markets look similar in both the design and the dual-tone colour treatment.
The USA design is missing the sports bar on the deck, side steps, and a pair of roof rails, which could be offered as accessories at the dealership later.
The rear design
The rear design of the USA Ranger takes cues from the larger F-150 sibling. The deck lid has stamped ‘RANGER’ model name, similar to the F-150.  The tail lamps meanwhile feature a squarer design with more ‘red tint’, something that the F-150 also features.
How about the interior?
No major differences here. The air conditioning vents are the same. Steering wheel for both markets is also similar.
The Ford Sync infotainment also looks the same in design.
With pickup trucks having a long model life, we could well see elements of
the Ranger USA
 being introduced here in ASEAN as part of a new variant (FX4?) or value-adding differentiators with the introduction of new powertrains.


Perodua Kelisa Drives Through The Flood Like a Boss

In its early days, Perodua models were all named after animals – Kancil, Rusa, Kenari, and what not, but nobody really expected them to have similarities with any of these animals, did they?

However, that doesn’t seem to be the case with the one model that we didn’t name above – the Kelisa.

Staying true to its name, which is the Malay name for Arowana, a Kelisa was seen bracing through the flash floods of Kuala Lumpur yesterday like it was child's play!

As expected, the video showing this act of bravery went viral in a matter of hours to the pleasant surprise of fellow Malaysians.

The best part is that a crowd, which was gathered by the roadside while waiting for the flood to subside, ended up cheering for the driver who somehow made it through and drove off as if nothing happened.

That being said, jump straight to the video below and check the impressive feat out yourself.

No more jokes about the Perodua Kelisa, okay?

*Credit to Sukan Star TV for the video


Waiting List For X5 Plug-in Hybrid Extends To Q2 2017, High Demand For 330e

The BMW Group Malaysia’s range of i Performance plug-in hybrid models – the X5 xDrive40e and 330e – has been very well received, and the latest information by BMW Group Malaysia suggests that the order banks allocated for this year for both the X5 and 3 Series plug-in hybrid variants have already been sold out.

As you might have already heard, this year’s allocation for the RM388,800
X5 xDrive40e
 is already sold out. Book one today and you can only expect to get your plug-in hybrid 313 hp and 450 Nm X5 sometime in the second quarter of 2017.

When asked if a similarly long waiting list is building up for the 252 hp and 420 Nm
330e
, BMW Group Malaysia says while there is strong demand for the 330e, there is still a healthy stock level for the 330e, while sales and delivery numbers are growing from strength to strength and healthy order banks and vehicles are available.

Speaking at the signing of a
partnership between BMW Group Malaysia and GreenTech Malaysia
 at the 7th International Greentech & Eco Products Exhibition and Conference Malaysia (IGEM) earlier today, Mr. Sashi Ambi, Head of Corporate Communications, BMW Group Malaysia said:

“As of today, the demand for both the BMW X5 xDrive40e and BMW 330e continues to grow. We have already begun delivering both vehicles to our customers; the BMW X5 xDrive40e currently has a wait list until Q2 2017 while the order bank for the BMW 330e is healthily growing. We are confident that the progress of these vehicles will continue to be positive.”

The partnership between BMW Group Malaysia and GreenTech Malaysia now allows BMW owners to access GreenTech Malaysia’s ChargEV facilities to charge their vehicles using their BMW ChargeNow cards.


Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia Introduces Locally-Assembled Outlander 2.4, Priced At RM155,000

Following the introduction of the locally-assembled Outlander 2.0 back in September 2017. Now Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) has expanded the locally-assembled Outlander's range to include a new 2.4-litre variant, replacing the previous fully-imported from Japan unit.
Power is derived from a 2.4-litre four-cylinder MIVEC petrol engine that does 167 PS and 222 Nm, paired to Mitsubishi’s INVECS-III CVT that sends power to all four wheels. Paddle shifters are fitted as standard.
Similar to the Outlander 2.0 we sampled last year, the new Outlander 2.4 CKD also features Mitsubishi’s intelligent 4WD system with Multi-Select, allowing drivers to select three modes – 4WD Eco, 4WD Auto and 4WD Lock.
Pictured here is the previous fully-imported Outlander 2.4 model - note the different wheel design
Outside, the locally-assembled Outlander 2.4 features the same equipment as its fully-imported sibling, including LED headlights with LED DRLs, LED tail lights and 18-inch dual-tone alloy wheels. The Outlander 2.4 also adds an electric tailgate with anti-pinch to its list of equipment. Additionally, the locally-assembled Outlander 2.4 sports new wheel design.
Moving inside, the locally-assembled seven-seater Outlander 2.4 continues to offer a sunroof, 7.0-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay connectivity and dual-zone automatic climate control. What sets the locally-assembled units from the fully-imported ones are the inclusion of the digital video recorder (DVR) and All Round Monitor.
In terms of safety, seven airbags, ABS with EBD, Brake Asist, Active Stability & Traction Control (ASTC), Hill Start Assist and ISOFIX anchor points are fitted as standard.
The new locally-assembled Mitsubishi Outlander 2.4 is priced at RM155,000 (OTR without insurance), a reduction of roughly RM17,000 compared to the CBU model. MMM is currently having a Chinese New Year promotion of discounts of up to RM4,000 for the Outlander.
MMM is backing the Outlander with a two-year free maintenance program and five year unlimited mileage factory warranty.


All-New Geely Binrui Announced, Potential Proton Preve Replacement?

Geely has opened bookings for its all-new C-segment sedan called the Binrui. The all-new model is expected to be launched in China later this month.
In the powertrain department, the upcoming Geely Binrui will feature two engines from Geely’s G-Power lineup of engines. The first is a 1.0-litre turbocharged direct-injection 3-cylinder petrol engine that does 134 hp and 205 Nm, hooked up to a Getrag-sourced 6-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). The second engine is a 1.4-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder, good for 131 hp and 215 Nm. The second engine is mated to either a Punch-sourced CVT-type automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual.
Underpinning the all-new Geely Binrui is the company’s latest BMA platform. Length of the all-new Binrui comes in at 4,680 mm long, 1,785 mm wide, and 1,460 mm tall. Wheelbase of the new model is 2,670 mm, 30 mm shorter than rivals like the Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, Mazda 3, and Toyota Corolla Altis.
Similar to some of its core rivals, the all-new Geely Binrui features front MacPherson struts and a rear torsion beam suspension.
Three variants will be available when the car is launched, namely the base manual, mid-spec automatic, and high-spec automatic.
Equipment wise, the all-new Geely Binrui is well equipped with these features found on the base model:
Passive entry push start (PEPS)
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
E-Call emergency service
Passive cruise control
Leather upholstery
Reverse sensors
Reverse camera with guide lines
7-inch colour TFT display meter cluster
10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system
AMap by Alibaba navigation system
Voice control
4G connectivity and in-car Wi-Fi
Moving up to the mid-spec automatic, this variant adds:
Power folding side mirrors
One-touch automatic windows with anti-pinch
6-way power adjustable driver seat
Built-in digital video recorder (DVR)
Automatic air-conditioning
Electric parking brake with Auto Hold
LED headlights
17-inch alloy wheels
Last but not least is the range-topping automatic variant, which further adds:
Adaptive Cruise Control (Intelligent Cruise Control)
Lane Keep Assist (LKA)
Autonomous Emergency Braking with Pedestrian detection (AEB-P)
Speed Limit Information System (SLIF)
Intelligent High Beam Control (IHBC)
Automatic air-conditioning with PM 2.5 air purifying system
Qi Wireless charging
Front seat heaters
Curtain airbags
The all-new Geely Binrui is expected to be priced from CNY 90,800 (~RM 54,148) for the base manual variant, while the range-topping model is said to set buyers back for CNY 118,800 (~RM 70,843).


SPRM Detains Director For Accepting Car Bribe

Another day, another top official arrested for allegedly receiving a bribe in the form of a vehicle as an inducement for a contract.

A director of the management department of a public university in Melaka was arrested by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (SPRM) in Melaka recently for
allegedly accepting bribes
.

According to Malaysiakini, SPRM Melaka director Mohd Shahril Che Saad said the man in his 50s was arrested when he appeared to testify at the SPRM office.

"The man was arrested for allegedly receiving a vehicle, namely a Honda Accord 2.4 i-VTEC estimated to be worth RM174,500 as an inducement to obtain an open tender worth RM1,654,350 from a company owner in Klang, Selangor."

"He was arrested for investigation purposes under Section 17(a) of the SPRM Act 2009," he said in a statement in Melaka.

If SPRM's investigation finds the man to be guilty in accordance with Section 17(a) of the SPRM Act 2009,  the director could face a prison sentence of up to 20 years or a fine of not less than five times the value of the bribe or RM 10,000 whichever is higher.


Volvo Cars Posts Record Global Sales For 2017

It's good news from Volvo: the Swedish automaker managed to post record sales for 2017, with a 7% growth over 2016 to a solid 571,577 cars. It's not at all surprising though, given their fantastic new model line-up and aggressive growth in smaller markets. The two pronged strategy resulted in growth in all regions, not least of which is China at 25.8% over the previous year.
Much of this success is owed to the introduction of their 90 series models in various markets - markets which have had to contend with their older models for the longest of times and in some cases have lost their interest in Volvo. In some of their more popular markets, the all-new XC60 and XC40 have broken cover and pushed sales up even further.
On the whole, the company is doing great. There are even more models on the way, and the announcement of their commitment to electrification over the next few years is definitely helping them to gain interest - especially in markets where drivers are more environmentally friendly, or have large incentives for eco-friendly cars. Companies like Uber have signed on to purchase Volvo models for ride-sharing from 2019 to 2021, increasing business prospects substantially.
Let's not forget that the Polestar sub-brand was also launched fairly late in 2017, which should see some rather interesting performance models being introduced over the next decade or so. While the Polestar 1 is currently the talk of the town, posed as a supercar fighter, let's not forget that Polestar will have a big hand in developing more accessible performance cars for Volvo.
Also of note is Volvo's expansion of manufacturing facilities to the United States, with a full on manufacturing facility in South Carolina. This is important as it will help Volvo to grow within the North American region, with more competitive pricing thanks to lower taxation and duties and the like. While sales in the USA have gone down, sales overall in the Americas have gone up.
Region
January - December
2016
2017
Change
EMEA (Europe, Middle East, Africa)
310,821
320,988
3.3%
Asia-Pacific
126,314
152,688
20.9%
Americas
97,197
97,921
0.7%
Total
534,332
571,577
7.0%
Volvo's retail sales status is broken down by region as above. As you can see, the Asia-Pacific region accounts for over a quarter of total sales globally - largely a result of Chinese sales - but it is only poised to grow even more over the next few years as more markets mature and become accepting of the Swedish brand.


Hyundai Plans Introduce 13 New Alternative-Fueled Vehicles by 2022

Hyundai has announced that it plans to introduce 13 new alternatively fuelled (Electric, Hybrid, and Plug-in Hybrid) models by 2022, including six sedans and seven SUVs.

Upcoming highlights from this product offensive include the facelifted 2020 Ioniq Electric, Hybrid, and Plug-in Hybrid, slated to be revealed at the upcoming Los Angeles Auto Show, followed by the all-new Sonata hybrid sedan which will be coming next year.

The remaining nine eco-focused products will be showcased over the next three years.

Mike O’Brien, Vice President of Product, Corporate, and Digital Planning, Hyundai Motor America said, “As the automotive industry evolves to meet the needs of a diverse customer base and environmentally-aware society, we will continue to provide alternative-propulsion options in a variety of product choices.”


2017 Audi A4 New Variants Against Rivals

The
newly-introduced variants of the Audi A4
 mean that the
BMW 3 Series
 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class are now firmly locked in a three-way battle in the premium compact exec segment.
Whilst Audi continues to be hamstrung by the lack of
CKD
 that prevents it from offering a competitive combination of price and kit,
the A4
 now at least has the pre-requisite variety to match the different variants of the 3 Series and C-Class in performance.
For starters, the
existing A4 2.0 TFSI
 variant with 190hp and 320Nm matches up nicely against the mid-range variants of its rivals, namely the 320i and C200, both of which run on 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engines boosted to similar outputs.
The A4 enjoys a slight power and torque advantage over its rivals, but does not translate that to superior acceleration times. The Audi is significantly more economical on fuel than both though. It is also worth noting that, despite not enjoying the benefits of EEV incentives, the A4 2.0 without the optional Tech Pack starts at a lower price than the Mercedes, but still some RM17k north of the BMW.
The Benz was subject to an update recently too – the C200 and C250 have ditched their 7-speed automatic gearboxes for a new 9-speed unit, but with no change to its power outputs. The two extra ratios tacked an additional RM5,000 to the C200’s sticker price; the C250 maintains its existing price.

Audi A4 2.0 TFSI
BMW 320i
Mercedes-Benz C200
Price
RM248,900 – RM273,900
RM231,800
RM253,888 – RM257,888
Engine
2.0-litre, 4-cyl
2.0-litre, 4-cyl
2.0-litre, 4-cyl
Power (hp @ rpm)
190 @ 4,200 – 6,000
184 @ 5,000 – 6,500
184 @ 5,500
Torque (Nm @ rpm)
320 @ 1,450 – 4,200
290 @ 1,350 – 4,250
300 @ 1,200 – 4,000
Transmission
7-speed DCT, FWD
8 A/T, RWD
9 A/T, RWD
Top Speed
240 km/h
235 km/h
237 km/h
0-100km/h
7.3 sec
7.2 sec
7.2 sec
Fuel Consumption
5.0 litres/100km
5.8 litres/100km
5.6 – 6.1 litres/100km
At the base level, the A4 1.4 TFSI goes up against the BMW 318i and Mercedes-Benz C180. Price-wise, the Audi once again occupies middle-ground between the BMW and the Merc.
Its 1.4-litre engine displaces the least swept volume of the three, but outputs of 150hp and 250Nm puts it near the 1.6-litre C180 and well clear of the 1.5-litre three-pot 318i. On the road, the A4 is claimed to be almost as efficient as the 318i whilst nearly matching the C180’s superior acceleration times.

Audi A4 1.4 TFSI
BMW 318i
Mercedes-Benz C180
Price
RM218,900
RM205,800
RM228,888
Engine
1.4-litre, 4-cyl
1.5-litre, 3-cyl
1.6-litre, 4-cyl
Power (hp @ rpm)
150 @ 5,000 – 6,000
136 @ 4,500 – 6,000
156 @ 5,300
Torque (Nm @ rpm)
250 @ 1,500 – 3,500
220 @ 1,250 – 4,300
250 @ 1,200 – 4,000
Transmission
7-speed DCT, FWD
8 A/T, RWD
7 A/T, RWD
Top Speed
210 km/h
210 km/h
225 km/h
0-100km/h
8.5 sec
8.9 sec
8.3 sec
Fuel Consumption
5.2 litres/100km
5.1 litres/100km
5.9 – 6.3 litres/100km
If it was launched earlier, the A4 2.0 TFSI quattro would have taken on the BMW 330i and
Mercedes C300
 with similar outputs. What has happened instead is that both the
3 Series
 and
C-Class
 have moved on to plug-in hybrid variants at the top of their range that are at the same time cheaper, more powerful, and more economical. You’ll really need to want the superior traction of its quattro AWD system to justify picking the range-topping A4 over the BMW and Merc PHEVs.

Audi A4 2.0 quattro
BMW 330e
Mercedes-Benz C350e
Price
RM314,900
RM248,800 – RM258,800
RM289,888 – RM299,888
Engine
2.0-litre, 4-cyl
2.0-litre, 4-cyl, Hybrid
2.0-litre, 4-cyl, Hybrid
Power (hp @ rpm)
252 @ 5,000 – 6,000
252 @ 5,000
279
Torque (Nm @ rpm)
370 @ 1,600 – 4,500
420 @ 0 – 2,500
600
Transmission
7-speed DCT, AWD
8 A/T, RWD
7 A/T, RWD
Top Speed
250 km/h
225 km/h
250 km/h
0-100km/h
5.8 sec
6.1 sec
5.9 sec
Fuel Consumption
5.9 litres/100km
2.1 litres/100km
2.1 litres/100km


A Four-Year Old Girl Was Driving This 18-tonne Volvo FMX When It Flipped Over

No this was not a computer generated image, or a screen grab from a video game. A four-year old Sophie was driving this Volvo FMX when she flipped it over. Don’t worry, it’s Volvo, no child was harmed in the production of this stunt.
To demonstrate the toughness of its FMX, Volvo had prepared an FMX that has been modified with radio controls, and handed the controls over to an unpredictable four-year old child.
"To show what the truck can do, we want to give it a real challenge. What test driver is more reckless than an unpredictable four-year-old?" asks Ricard Fritz, Vice President Volvo Trucks Brand.
Sophie steers the truck on the construction area in the film, and the truck takes unpredicted ways: Among others, the truck ends up climbing a steep, soft slope, before rolling all the way down in a full 360-degree roll.
"The test demonstrates beyond question the ability of the truck to cope with the most extreme environments. To help it do so, it has functions such as the new, Automatic Traction Control, keeping it going even on severely sloping and soft surfaces. They also demonstrate its total strength with an unbeatable cabin design with sturdy front corners and a reinforced sub-frame" says Gunnar Eliasson, Launch Manager at Volvo Trucks.
Watch the video below:
The video is the latest in Volvo Trucks' 'Live Test' series of videos. Below is a selection of Live Test videos from released earlier:


Volvo XC40 mild hybrid model updated for 2023 - RM268,888

Volvo Car Malaysia (VCM) has announced that its
Volvo XC40
 mild-hybrid variant has been updated and enhanced for the 2023 model.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 B5 Ultimate now comes with a host of upgrades to ensure a better ownership experience for future owners from a new exterior colour option down to interior equipment additions as well as safety features both inside and out.

2023 Volvo XC40 B5 Ultimate - RM268,888

The Volvo XC40 mild hybrid model year 2023 is now available with a new exterior colour option called 'Fjord Blue'. The rest of the updates can be found within the cabin in the forms of:

Harman Kardon Premium Sound Audio System

360° Surround View Camera

Android-powered infotainment system with built-in Google services

Remote Air Purifier PM2.5 pre-cleaning

Being a mild hybrid model, the 2023 Volvo XC40 B5 Ultimate comes ready with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine that produces 263hp and 390Nm of torque. Power is sent down to all four wheels via an eight-speed Geartronic auto transmission which helps to propel it from 0-100km/h in just 6.4 seconds.

Why update a mild hybrid model for 2023?

According to Charles Frump, Managing Director of VCM, "As we advocate for a more sustainable way of living, we also understand that people may need to familiarise themselves with the concept of electrification."

"This is what led us to introducing an updated version of our XC40 Mild Hybrid variant, as a suitable stepping stone for drivers who are looking to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle," added Frump.

For the price of RM268,888 (OTR without insurance), customers can still spec it out with the existing colour options - Black Stone, Crystal White, Silver Dawn, and Thunder Grey. All units that are registered by 31 December 2022 will also receive VCM's five years' free service (VSA 5).


Porsche takes supermodified 911 C4S up world's highest volcano

We’ve always suspected that Porsche was going down the route of making a rugged off-road specific variant of the 911. Unfortunately, that dream hasn’t materialised here, but the next best thing has.
Based on the 992 Carrera
 4S, this high riding beast has now scaled the world’s tallest volcano.

Specifically, its the Ojos del Salado in Chile, right on its western border with Argentina high up in the Andes, making this volcano (though dormant) the highest in the world at an altitude of 6,893 metres above sea level.

However, the car(s) and its accompanying team reached a peak of 6,007 metres where they were subject to temperatures of -30 degrees celcius and extremely thin, barely breathable air. They met with extremely harsh terrain void of any plant or animal life, encountering boulder-filled glaciers and high walls of frozen ash and water.

Any car capable of climbing such heights over such punishing terrain is worthy of greatness purely on that achievement, but the Porsche team and its 911 have done so with a car that, despite its looks, isn’t too far removed from the donor vehicle.

At the wheel was Romain Dumas, endurance racer and adventurer, piloting a heavily modified 992 C4S. There are far widened arches and raised suspension for a 350mm ground clearance to house 310mm wide off-road tyres, expedition livery, and purpose-built Porsche Warp-Connector which, according to Porsche, was:

“Originally designed for motorsport applications, it forms a mechanical link between all four wheels to allow constant wheel load even when the chassis is enduring extreme articulation – contributing to maximum traction.”

Surprisingly, the car’s mechanicals were left very much factory spec. At the rear was still an unchanged 3.0-litre flat-6 turbocharged petrol engine developing 450PS and 530Nm (under normal conditions), mated to a 7-speed manual transmission.

Apart from the aforementioned Warp Connectors, Porsche also fitted the special volcano-scaling C4S with lower gear ratios for better slow crawls up the sheer slopes. Underneath is also a much more hardy undertray and bash plates made from Aramid fibres.

“This was a truly memorable and special moment in a place that’s both beautiful and brutal at the same time – I guess the only machines anywhere in the world higher than us today were aircraft! For the team and the car it was about learning – and right out of the box, the car was tough and nimble. We were hard on ourselves and really put it in the deep end for its first test, yet it felt at home,” said Dumas, driver of the 911 and leader of the team.

“We have enormous respect for those who have gone higher. No one has seen so much ice and snow up towards the top of the volcano, but despite this we went over 6,000 meters up, to the point where the walls of ice and snow meant we could go no further. We’re really proud of what the car and the team are capable of first time out – hopefully we can count on many more adventures in the future.”

Dr. Frank-Steffen Walliser, Vice-President, Complete Vehicle Architecture and Characteristics at Porsche AG, commissioned his chief engineer for the Porsche 911, Michael Rösler, with the project. “It’s been magical to build a 911 like the world has never seen before – made possible by a small team of engineering enthusiasts,”

“The 911 has already been proven on the track and, of course, on the road. With this project, we‘re shifting the focus to where there are no roads“, said Rösler, Director complete vehicle 911 Model line. “Testing our theories means finding the harshest possible environments to see if they work – and on the highest volcano in the world, we succeeded.”


MINI EV To Launch In 2019; Next-Gen BMWs To Offer More EV Variants

A fully-electric version of the MINI 3 Door hatchback will be going into production in 2019 to be sold alongside existing petrol, diesel, and PHEV variants. This announcement comes as the BMW Group further confirms that its next generation models will be optimized for fully-electric variants.
Despite concerns of rising costs due to Brexit, the MINI EV will continue to be built at the current MINI plant in Oxford, UK, although the vehicle’s electric drivetrain module will be sourced from BMW’s German plants in Dingolfing and Landshut.
Oliver Zipse, BMW AG Management Board member for Production said, “BMW Group Plants Dingolfing and Landshut play a leading role within our global production network as the company’s global competence centre for electric mobility.”
“Our adaptable production system is innovative and able to react rapidly to changing customer demand. If required, we can increase production of electric drivetrain motor components quickly and efficiently, in line with market developments,” he continued.
The Dingolfing and Landshut plants have been producing electrified drivetrain components for BMW vehicles since 2013, although electrified BMW vehicles such as the 330e and 740Le plug-in hybrid models are produced at ten plants worldwide.
Globally, the BMW Group offers a total of nine models with electrified drivetrains to various degrees. In Malaysia, the company boasts a strong line-up of PHEV models that consist of the
330e
,
740Le
,
X5 xDrive40e
, and i8. In total, the BMW Group is aiming to sell a total of 100,000 electrified vehicles worldwide in 2017.
More electrified models are planned to join the MINI EV in the line-up; the i8 Roadster is slated for launch in 2018, followed by the X3 EV in 2020, and the iNEXT in 2021. BMW's announcement, however, notably excludes any mention of a
3 Series EV
 that was earlier reported by German media as being ready to debut as early as this year's Frankfurt Motor Show.
The BMW Group expects electrified vehicles to account for 15 to 25% of its total sales worldwide by 2025. The company’s global average at present is 3%, although
Malaysia has the interesting distinction of having 44%
 of total BMW sales made up by PHEV models.
This unusual distribution, however, is contributed by EEV tax breaks that have enabled locally-assembled luxury PHEV models not just from BMW, but Mercedes-Benz and Volvo as well, to be offered at unusually competitive prices and specifications.


The Bugatti Divo Is For More Than Straight Highways

We're used to seeing Bugatti making insanely powerful cars like the Veyron and the Chiron, but one little caveat is that these cars are mostly meant to do it in a straight line and for a relatively short duration. Tyres and fuel degrade in a matter of minutes when really pushing the envelope, which means owners have to pick and choose when they want to use their cars to the fullest potential. Some say that there is a room somewhere in Germany which monitors each Bugatti model worldwide by GPS, including telemetry, which is an added precaution when dealing with such a powerful car.
But Bugatti has just unveiled a different kind of vehicle at Monterey - it's the Divo, and it's "made for corners". Only 40 will be made, at 5 million Euros (RM 23,985,501), and all have already been accounted for within minutes of its unveiling. It's 35 kilograms lighter and produces 90 kilograms more downforce than the Chiron, with the same 1,500 PS turbocharged 8-litre W16 powertrain as the Chiron, albeit limited to a
paltry
 380 km/h.
Bugatti regards itself as a coachbuilder in a way, but with such low production volume there's no other way to define it. The Divo has a redesigned front end, optimized for engine cooling and aerodynamics, as well as providing additional brake ducting and more rear downforce with a redesigned rear wing. Total downforce stands at 456 kilograms at speed, with a new peak lateral grip of 1.6G. There's no longer a top speed mode, but realistically how often would you use it?
Where the Chiron and Veyron were high-speed cruisers, the Divo is agile and nippy with redesigned suspension and steering for better response and handling. It's sportier in all of its driving modes, and devoid of some of the creature comforts in an effort to shed weight and keep the car sharp. The result is a lap time that's 8 seconds quicker around the Nardo handling circuit, which is nothing to sniff at.
All in, it's a clever move by Bugatti to diversify their range of vehicles. A company can't exist functioning as a one trick pony these days, and while Bugatti is far from producing an SUV of sorts, this additional model gives way to an entirely different design direction. One can't say that they are losing their way with the Divo, because Bugatti is not necessarily defined by a singular model, and as evidenced by all 40 being sold out, the market is definitely receptive to a sportier Bugatti.


Bantuan Banjir Volkswagen Malaysia - Diskaun 30 Peratus, Bayaran Ansuran Sifar Peratus

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM)
 telah mengumumkan program bantuan banjir untuk membantu pemilik yang terjejas akibat banjir kilat baru-baru ini.

Sehingga 28 Februari tahun depan, syarikat itu menawarkan diskaun 30 peratus untuk alat ganti dan kerja pembaikan kenderaan yang rosak akibat banjir, tersedia di semua pusat servis sah Volkswagen.

Selain itu, untuk meringankan lagi beban kewangan yang mungkin dihadapi ramai, VPCM juga menawarkan pelan pembayaran mudah, di mana pemilik mempunyai pilihan untuk membayar bil mereka selama enam atau 12 bulan pada kadar faedah sifar peratus.

“Kami semua di VPCM berasa amat sedih dengan
kejadian banjir kilat
 yang melanda Malaysia hujung minggu lalu. Fikiran kita bersama mereka yang terjejas dan menghadapi kerugian dan kerosakan yang menyusul. Kami berharap bantuan kami akan membantu meringankan beban pemilik kami semasa masa sukar ini,” kata Erik Winter, Pengarah Urusan VPCM.

Pemilik kenderaan Volkswagen yang terjejas banjir
 digalakkan untuk memuat turun aplikasi Volkswagen Cares baharu di Apple App Store atau Google Play Store untuk menebus baucar bantuan banjir.

Tertakluk kepada terma dan syarat, jadi sila hubungi pusat servis sah terdekat untuk maklumat lanjut.


Jalan Rosak Di Selangor? Tweet Je!

Anda kini boleh melaporkan
kerosakan jalan raya
 bagi jalan-jalan di negeri Selangor melalui Twitter sahaja!

Berdasarkan ciapan Menteri Besar Selangor, Amirudin Shari di Twitter, proses aduan ini telah dipermudahkan dengan hanya menggunakan hashtag di Twitter. Segala aduan akan ditapis dan disemak secara automatik sebelum proses pembaikan dijalankan.

Cara-Cara Membuat Laporan

Untuk membuat laporan, anda memerlukan bukti seperti gambar atau video. Ikuti langkah di bawah:

Ambil gambar/video

Laporkan di Twitter

“Saya ingin melaporkan jalan
berlubang
 di Jalan Gombak”

Sertakan hashtag dalam tweet seperti:

#NAMAJALAN

#NAMADAERAH

#INFRASEL

Contoh tweet:

“Saya ingin melaporkan jalan berlubang di Jalan Gombak #INFRASEL #GOMBAK #JALANGOMBAK”

Hasil semakan kami, aduan yang dibuat di Twitter akan dibalas oleh akaun
@infrasel_kjp
 yang akan bertanggungjawab memanjangkan perkara itu kepada pihak berwajib. Jalan-jalan yang telah diperbaiki juga akan dimuat naik oleh akaun berkenaan.

Walau bagaimanapun, harus diingat bahawa inisiatif ini hanya terbuka kepada jalan-jalan di bawah seliaan kerajaan negeri Selangor sahaja kerana Infrasel merupakan konsesi yang menjalankan kerja-kerja penyelenggaraan jalan raya di bawah
JKR
 bagi Jalan-Jalan Negeri di Selangor sahaja.


Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Sets New Record To Become No.1 Premium Brand In Malaysia, Again

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s record breaking streaking has been unrelenting. The company closed 2016 by delivering of 11,779 passenger cars, nine percent more than 2015, marking a new record for the Mercedes-Benz brand in Malaysia. The numbers do not include Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles.
“Our strategy is simple, we deliver the best vehicles and the best customer service,” said Mercedes-Benz President and CEO, Dr. Claus Weidner.
The company’s record breaking year is in parallel with parent company Daimler AG’s achievement to
reclaim the No.1 title from BMW
.
Most of the growth were contributed by the brand’s expanded SUV range, which totaled 1,671 unit, up from a negligible sum last year.
GLC-Class – 1,421 units
GLE-Class – 250 units
The growth in Mercedes-Benz’s SUV range compensated for the shortfall in its compact cars and sedan cars range (which in Mercedes-Benz’s German terminology, is referred to as limousines).
Compact car models like the A-Class, CLA-Class and GLA-Class were entering the mid-point of their lifecycle in 2016, and sales had dropped by 18 percent in 2016 to 2,316 cars (495 cars less).
A-Class – 1,034 units
B-Class – 73 units
CLA-Class – 638 units
GLA-Class – 571 units
As for the sedans, which Mercedes-Benz prefers to refer to as Limousines, there was a 3 percent drop in the number of locally-produced sedans, totaling 7,750 units, partly due to the phasing out of the previous generation W212 E-Class.
C-Class – 4,762 units
E-Class – 2,034 units
S-Class – 954 units
Total production of locally-assembled cars at the company’s independently managed assembly line at the DRB-Hicom plant in Pekan have reached a new record high of 7,882 units. That’s 2.2 percent higher than before.
The models assembled in Pekan are:
C180 Avantgarde
C200 Exclusive
C250 Avantgarde
C250 AMG
C350e
E-Class (to be launched soon)
S400h
GLC 250 4Matic AMG
In addition to that, the company also sold 301 units of highly emotional products which the company refers to as the ‘Dream Cars’ – cars like the CLS, SLC, AMG GT, C63 S, E250 Coupe, and S63 Coupe.
For those of you who have a sharp eye for numbers and are wondering why the breakdown don’t add up, that’s because the numbers are intentionally presented this way by Mercedes-Benz, and some models like C63 S and S63 are already included with the C-Class and S-Class’ count.
Mr. Mark Raine, Vice-President of Sales and Marketing added, “We achieved an impressive sales growth of 9 percent versus 2015, clearly bucking the trend. This has enabled us to claim leadership position with 2.4 percent market share. Mercedes-Benz Malaysia continues to be the undisputed leader in the premium car segment.”
Raine also revealed that 4 out of every 10 vehicles sold by Mercedes-Benz Malaysia is now financed and insured by Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia (MBSM), whose portfolio is now valued at RM1.8 billion.
With increase in sales volume comes greater pressure on the company’s after-sales network. To that end, Mr. Heinrich Schromm, Vice President of After-Sales pointed that Mercedes-Benz’s network of 29 dedicated dealerships nationwide is the largest in the premium car segment.
The company has also rolled out various tailor-made services for its customers, like the setting up of Mercedes-Benz City Store, City Service, Proven Exclusivity, Service Differentiation and AMG Centres. Some outlets are already offering pick-up/delivery services as well after-hours drop-off at the service centre.
Last year, 25 apprentices graduated from the Mercedes-Benz Training Academy while another 30 more started their apprenticeship at the centre.
It also achieved the highest customer satisfaction index score in its own internal Competitive Benchmark Study, which evaluates its front-line staff performance in sales, after-sales and financial services.


Perodua Myvi Wins Frost & Sullivan's Value-for-Money Car of the Year Award For 2015

The
Perodua
 Myvi been awarded the Value-for-Money Car of the Year award in the 1.3-litre and above category at the
2015 Frost & Sullivan Malaysia Excellence Awards Ceremony
.
Several quantitative measurements were taken into consideration for the
Perodua Myvi
 to win the award which included sales volume for 2014, selling price of the model in 2014, parts costs, fuel consumption, and total cost of ownership over a five-year period or approximately 100,000km usage.
Perodua President and CEO Datuk Aminar Rashid Salleh said, “We are excited yet humbled by this award and thank Frost & Sullivan for providing an objective platform to evaluate vehicles for their value. We especially thank our customers who have made the Perodua Myvi the best model for 9 years in a row.”
Since the Myvi was launched in 2005, Perodua has managed to sell more than 830,000 units. The B-segment car will celebrate its 10
th
 anniversary in May this year and Aminar says this award arrived timely as the perfect endorsement for the Myvi’s Love of the Nation campaign which is currently running to December this year.
He added, “This award is a testament to the Perodua Myvi and as an extension to Perodua as it demonstrate our overall commitment to bring you the best in terms of in-built quality and value preposition,.”


Turbocharged Toyota 86 Out Next Year

The sweet news that every Toyota 86 fan, owner and aspiring-owner has been waiting for has finally arrived, and we feel so privileged to pass on to you that the next Toyota 86 which will debut next year will probably be turbocharged - yeehaw!

The fun driving coupe is already a joy to drive. It is lightweight and has excellent balance which is what we look for in a sportscar. For power freaks, the lacklustre 2.0-litre naturally aspirated engine with only 200hp and 200Nm of torque was a significant deterrent. It might be able to rev up to 7,000rpm, but it would only kick out so much power.

Toyota aims to fix this and open the vehicle up to more power-driven consumers by putting in a new 2.4-litre boxer engine rumoured to have an output of 260hp. As with the current car, the engine will be supplied by Japanese boxer engine supremo, Subaru. According to CarThrottle, this 2.4-litre engine will most probably be the Subaru FA24, an engine which is powering Subaru's largest SUV, the Ascent. It is also said that the FA24 will be the beginning block for the upcoming 400hp WRX STI.

The Toyota 86, GT86, FT86 or Scion FS-R (depending on which part of the planet you are from) will also get a new name. With Toyota wanting to standardise their fun cars with the GR (Gazoo Racing) nameplate, it is no surprise then that the new and much more powerful 86 will be called the GR86.

This first bit of info was depicted in GR86.org, a forum of all things Toyota 86. The forum showed a leaked slide from a Toyota dealer conference which showed what the 2021 Toyota 86 would look like.

If the power figures are to be true, then the Toyota 86 will no longer be in the same class as the Mazda Miata and Fiat 124 Spider. Instead, it can probably go toe to toe with the Lotus Elise Cup, Alpine A110, and the Audi TT. Now this is one car that is going to cause a ruckus in the office when we finally get to review it.


Geely SX11 To Be Known As The Binyue

Known internally as the SX11, Geely’s newest subcompact crossover will be officially known as the Geely Binyue (缤越).
The Geely Binyue is the second model after the Binrui to sit on the company’s latest BMA platform. In terms of dimensions, the new Binyue comes in with a length of 4,330 mm, width of 1,800 mm and a height of 1,609 mm. Geely also added that the wheelbase is 2,600 mm, putting the Binyue shorter than the Honda HR-V (2,610 mm), Toyota C-HR (2,640 mm), and Renault Captur (2,606 mm). Despite that, the Binyue’s wheelbase is longer than the Peugeot 2008 (2,538 mm) and Mazda CX-3 (2,570 mm).
Under the hood lies a 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine that does 177 hp and 255 Nm, hooked up to a wet-type 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. This powertrain combination allows the all-new Binyue to complete the century sprint in just 7.9 seconds.
As for the Binyue’s exterior, it’s safe to say that the new subcompact SUV looks like a mini Boyue, down to the side profile with the raised window at the rear. The signature Geely ‘expanding cosmos’ grille is also present here, surrounded by a pair of sharp headlights. Below the headlights are the front foglights with swollen surrounds, giving the Binyue a sportier appeal.
Inside, the all-new Binyue features a modern interior with a floating touchscreen infotainment display. While Geely has yet to release further details of their new subcompact SUV, we can spot an electric parking brake with auto hold, multifunction steering wheel, and a digital instrument cluster.
Geely is expected to launch the all-new Binyue later this year.