RM14.3 million worth of unused driving licences wasted by JPJ

An audit report on the
Road Transport Department (JPJ)
 has uncovered a loss worth RM14.38 million related to the
Malaysian driving licence (LLM)
 and its card printing services.

The Auditor-General’s Report 2021 Series 2 stated that this particular scenario happened due to 'inadequate supervision of the regulations and agreements by JPJ', as reported by Malaysia Now. And to make things worse, it's public money.

Over 1.8 million LLM cards left unused

The bulk of this wastage comes in the form of over 1.83 million LLM cards that were left unused, which was worth RM14.23 million. The rest of its were not imposing penalties for service level agreement (SLA) violations that amounted close to RM150,000.

A proposal by the auditor-general mentioned that the usage of LLM cards should be monitored constantly by JPJ to avoid any further wastage in the future. This should also be applied towards imposing immediate penalties towards the contractor should there be any non-compliance matters.

In other news, Anthony Loke stated that the government is looking at a yearly saving of around RM96 million in regards to the switch to digital licences from physical road tax stickers as well as driving licences. For those of you who missed the big news, private vehicles will no longer need to display their road taxes.


These Are the Nicest Places We’ve Driven In, Ever

As far as automotive writers are concerned, the road is our second home, simply because we are driving something every other day.

This job has also given us the opportunity to explore and drive on some of the nicest, most exciting roads not only in Malaysia, but also around the world.

That being said, a recent casual chat among our colleagues got us discussing about the nicest roads on which each of us have driven, and the list is as follows:

Gokul – Canary Islands, Spain

“Located on the northern western coast of the African continent, Canary Islands is actually a part of Spain, and it is definitely the home to the most exciting road I’ve ever driven in my career.

Regardless of where you are on the island, you are either overseeing the North Atlantic Ocean, or driving between a visually stunning rocky mountain range.

The biggest highlight of this place is that a couple of years after I was there, the sixth installation of the Fast and Furious saga was actually shot here.  Hah! I was there before Vin Diesel!”

Adam - King's Highway, Jordan

The King's Highway is 125km south of the capital of Jordan, Amman. It is one of the hardest places to reach as there is nothing there except for desert, mountains and very small villages. Even though it is one of the emptiest roads in the world, it is well maintained by the Jordanians due to the historical sites it can lead you up to.

The roads were pretty much perfectly tarred with switchback corners that elevated all the way up to Mount Nebo, a place significant to Judaism, Islam and Christianity. Due to terrorism, this place is now restricted which made the experience all the more memorable.

Arvind - Simpang Pulai-Cameron Highlands

Okay, it is not as glamorous as Jordan or the Canary Islands, but, one of the most memorable drives I have ever had was right here in Malaysia. Get off the North-South Expressway at the Simpang Pulai exit and set a course for Cameron Highlands.

Your route guidance should take you through Kampung Tanjong (A181), onto the Gua Musang to Cameron Highlands highway (185) and then onto Brinchang. On the way, you will be treated to breathtaking scenery, cool breezes and clean air, and one of the most beautiful stretches of serpentine tarmac you'll ever experience in your life. Driving up here in a Lotus Exige or Honda S2000 should be nothing short of a spiritual affair, however, I did it in a 7-seater Isuzu MU-X SUV and was still giggling with excitement the next day.

Jim - Sea Oak Tunnel, Sikao, Thailand

Pictures from Google Maps and TripAdvisor because it was dark and my camera was crap.

There are a lot of objectively scenic routes in the world, but the one most memorable to me was discovered by accident. Lots of people actually travel to this spot in southern Thailand just to see this corridor of tall trees but the fact that I happened upon it in my own car while semi-lost made it so much more special.

It was a cool evening with the sun turning the sky a purplish orange, I pulled over and admired the beauty and symmetry of the pine trees that totally enveloped this straight road - the kind that would be perfect to watch a WRC car scream through.

As the perfect topper, you emerge out of this canopy of trees past an abandoned luxury resort (adds to the haunting atmosphere) and there’s more seaside roads to enjoy as the outcrop of islands in the Andaman Sea accompany you up the unbroken road ahead.

Aswan - Algarve Region, Portugal

Picking the best road I’ve driven on is a very tricky question, but the one that remains most vividly in my mind are the highways and scenic b-roads that wind their way through the Algarve region of Portugal. Close runner ups were the highway that stretches from Padang Besar to Phuket via Trang (think a scaled down version of Karak highway), and snow-covered roads in Are, Ostersund during winter in Sweden.

While all three of these roads are amazing to drive on, Algarve is the best blend of scenery and driving pleasure. Some of the roads may be a little tight for comfort (especially as we were driving the Mercedes-AMG E63S), but there were many stretches that ran through cork tree plantations that allowed you to feel the curves and the dips in solitude. Yes, cork is one of Portugal’s national exports.

Like most European b-roads, Algarve is best enjoyed in a hot hatchback. You don’t need massive amounts of power, but something small and nimble with reasonable amounts of traction will make you feel like a hero even at fairly pedestrian speeds. While going in winter means you’re more likely to get clear roads, you also have to accept that most businesses will be closed as it’s off-peak season. Perhaps autumn will be the best compromise, and you’ll see the cork trees ablaze with colour.

Farhanah - East Coast Expressway, Malaysia (LPT)

"For me, as someone who does not drive a lot, I quite enjoyed my drive to Kuantan some time last year. It was a quiet day on the East Coast Expressway."

"I am not a big fan of singled laned, winding roads. Give me a nicely paved, wide, and empty road, and I will be happy. It also helped that I was driving a pretty nice car; the Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Coupe."

So, where is the nicest road that YOU have driven on? Let us know in the comment section below! It can even be the street behind your house.


Like sedans? Too bad - VW CEO confirms next-gen Passat will be wagon-only

Volkswagen has confirmed that the
Volkswagen Passat sedan
 model will be discontinued in Europe.

Thomas Schäfer, CEO of Volkswagen, announced that the next-generation model for the Passat will be marketed exclusively as a wagon. We're not sure why this is the move from VW considering that the Passat was the best-selling car within its segment in Europe last year.

Anyway, the all-new Volkswagen Passat wagon will be launched sometime within the third quarter of 2023 followed by the targeted deliveries starting in September. Production-wise, the location has been moved out of Emden, Germany to Bratislava, Slovakia.

VW also mentioned that the next-generation Passat will be developed by Skoda, another great-selling brand under the Volkswagen Group umbrella thanks to its Superb model. The second-best-selling sedan in Europe will also join the next-gen Passat at the new assembly plant in Bratislava.

Moving towards the future of the very popular Volkswagen Passat, it'll most likely make use of the MQB platform together with cleaner and more eco-friendly powertrains to meet the stricter Euro 7 emission regulations.

Next-gen PHEV tech has already been confirmed for the Skoda Superb, so it wouldn't be a surprise if that is shared with the upcoming Passat wagon. For now, it is sad for us to say "Auf Wiedersehen" to the Passat sedan (we're hopeful that it'll make a return in the future).


BFGoodrich Launches Their Advantage Touring tyre - For All Cars,  Available Between 13-20 Inches

BFGoodrich launches their Advantage Touring tyres, a tyre designed for urban adventurers.

Popularly known for their reliable, grippy yet comfortable off-road tyres, BF Goodrich has launched its Advantage Touring tyre - a good value-for-money on-road tyre for sedans, pick-ups, MPVs, and SUVs.

A large variety of sizes

With a greater than 85% market coverage in the 13- to 20-inch range, with a total of 67 dimensions, the Advantage Touring tyre targets active-lifestyle drivers who want the
best value for their money
 and demand
confident control
 on their urban adventures.

MICHELIN Malaysia
’s Managing Director, Oliver Biggart said, “The BFGoodrich Advantage Touring targets active-lifestyle drivers who want the best value for their money and demand confident control for urban adventure. This newly launched tyre stands out with its extensive size offerings, as well as improved performance and aesthetics.

Key features of the
BFGoodrich Advantage Touring
 include:

Improved aesthetics and noise performance

Engineered for confident handling and braking in all conditions

Full-depth features that provide driving confidence over the tyre life

The tyres are able to provide these key features through an asymmetric, non-directional tread pattern with computer-optimized footprint to reduce interior cabin noise, rigid tread blocks and a shoulder that enables responsive handling and control, with large tread blocks with deep grooves that deliver exceptional braking performance in both wet and dry road conditions.

Also, thanks to an interlocking band technology that
reduces friction and heat, fuel consumption
 and the contact patch are optimized for markets with severe heat conditions, like ours.

Inspired by BFGoodrich's on-road racing tyres

Its good looks are inspired by BFGoodrich's on-road racing tyres, which have been around for 150 years, giving BF Goodrich its brand credibility with a rich history of on-road tyres.

The BFGoodrich Advantage Touring is now available at authorised dealers nationwide, and each tyre also comes with a six-year manufacturer’s warranty.

No prices have been announced but you can find more information about the tyre at www.bfgoodrich.com.my


Honda Maintains Number 1 Position In Thailand For Third Year Running

2017 was a good year for Honda in Thailand, as their local distributor managed to claim top spot in the year's sales. Honda Automobile (Thailand) has managed to do this for the third year in a row, with an impressive cumulative sales figure of 127,768 units for a market share of 32.2%. In addition to this, Honda is ranked first in the sub-compact, compact, and SUV vehicle market segments. It's a 19% improvement over the previous year, which is a pretty big leap forward.
With the launch of a range of new products over 2017, from the Civic Hatchback to the Mobilio, Honda has seen excellent reception from Thai buyers. That being said, the main sellers for Honda are still the City, Civic, Jazz, HR-V, and CR-V (in order of popularity). The City and Jazz take up 49.4% of the sub-compact market share, while the Civic and Civic Hatchback manage 50.9% of the compact market segment.
With three dogs in the fight for the SUV segment (the BR-V, HR-V, and CR-V), Honda managed to take a whopping 61.2% of the market. It's a combination of a solid product with the right kind of features and pricing, and the right timing. Arguably these products would not have done so well had it been close to a decade ago, but Honda seems to have gotten timing and product planning down within the region, given their strong sales within ASEAN.
Honda Malaysia saw similar success with their own cumulative sales figures, with
109,511 units sold over 2017
. This is the highest ever in the history of the company, exceeding the target of 100,000 units that they set at the start of the year, and also meant a market share of 19% according to internal data.


Fuel Subsidies! Coming to an e-Wallet Near You

The Malaysian government has been feverishly trying to restructure its fuel subsidies to address the
huge dent it causes the national coffers
. After many proposed ideas, perhaps they’ve finally made a decision.

Mind you, the decision surrounds the delivery mechanism of fuel subsidies and is not so much about the subsidies themselves. Essentially, they want a
more targeted system
 that would accurately reduce the occurrence or likelihood that they can be enjoyed by their intended demographic,
not the other way around
.

Choose Your E-Wallet, Get The Rebates

This is opposed to how things work now where there’s a blanket subsidy, such as the one applied to
RON95 petrol
 wherein the pump prices are capped at RM2.05. As you might imagine, finding a way to transfer the subsidies to deserving citizens is a tough task, and holding up progress on this effort for several months.

However, this could change rather soon as Johan Mahmood Merican, Deputy Secretary General of Treasury for Policy at the Ministry of Finance sat down for a morning interview with radio station BFM. While discussing this very matter, he revealed that the government is at least optimistic about e-wallets providing this ‘missing link’ solution.

Other Solutions To Targeted Distribution?

To this effect, they have already launched pilot testing programs using e-wallets to implement targeted subsidies but declined to reveal any more details such as which apps were likely to be supported.

Along a similar vein, earlier in March, the government had announced a list
of e-wallet apps
 - BigPay, GrabPay, ShopeePay, and TNG eWallet - to be used to assist in disbursing the RM300 million to youths around Malaysia as part of the ePemula program. Prior to this there were the eBelia, ePenjana, and e-Tunai Rakyat programs that also used e-wallet deposits.

Johan estimated that another 3 to 6 months of testing would be required before it could be announced to the wider public, though the MoF is continuing to study other solutions. Another concern raised about the use of e-wallets is their lack of use by Malaysia’s more rural and elderly population.

There will likely not be a perfect remedy, but typically the one with the fewest compromises will win the day. If nothing else, it does also put a timeline
as to how long our blanket subsidised
 RM2.05 RON95 could be available to us at petrol stations: perhaps not past end-2022.

So many more questions remain about the merits of e-wallets as a distribution method of fuel subsidies, but with the country's overall subsidies estimated to rise to nearly RM80 billion this year, they’ll need to take action pretty quickly.


All-New 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLS Starts Production At Sindelfingen

Ahead of the target of first deliveries by summer of 2018, Mercedes-Benz has started production of the all-new CLS at their plant in Sindelfingen. Based off of the E-Class platform, the CLS is
now in its third generation
 and is more technologically advanced than ever.
The Mercedes-AMG CLS 53 4MATIC+ is also produced at the same factory, although as we've discovered the more accessible Mercedes-AMG models don't require as much hands-on precision, and
yet they deliver as much of the driving experience
 you could ask for or hope for.
At the Sindelfingen plant, the CLS joins the S-Class in all of its various bodystyles, the Mercedes-Maybach, and the Mercedes-AMG GT - being more of a lower-volume, higher-end plant that specializes in the top-tier products of the Mercedes-Benz range.
Employing over 25,000 workers, the Sindelfingen plant is one of the more technologically advanced and flexible production centres for Mercedes-Benz, which also makes them one of the candidates for production of models under EQ - Mercedes' electric product and technology division.


2022 Hyundai Creta Spotted In Penang - Our Newest B-Segment Contender?

A Hyundai Creta was spotted
 in Penang recently, specifically along Jalan Tanjong Tokong, with pictures of the red unit being shared online. Could it be that Hyundai Sime Darby Motors is looking to bolster its B-segment SUV range?

For the uninitiated, the Hyundai Creta (pronounced like ‘kereta’ as far as we can tell) wasn’t named for the benefit of Malaysians but a car that has been sold since 2014 in emerging markets such as China, Russia, India, and South America where it’s also known as the ix25.

Hyundai Creta - coming to Malaysia?

Now in its 2nd-generation, the Creta is also sold in neighbouring Thailand and Indonesia, sharing similar dimensions as
the already familiar Hyundai Kona
, which it technically stands in place for.

It’s very possible that the car spotted on the island was a visiting motorist, but its Malaysian plates (Melaka ones) confirm otherwise, leaving the only likely theory being that HSDM is at least considering a local launch. The fact that it was spotted completely undisguised was also surprising - perhaps it was an intentional tactic to get noticed and spoken about in order to gauge public interest.

Credit:
Paultan.org via Facebook

Hyundai Creta vs Perodua Ativa

It will need every advantage possible given how competitive this sector of the new car market is with heavyweights such as the Proton X50 and
all-new Honda HR-V
. Also, given the relatively unremarkable sales of the Kona, any trepidation is well founded.

In Indonesia in particular, the Creta is met in head-on rivalry by the Daihatsu Rocky, which is known to us in badge-engineered form
as the Perodua Ativa,
 indicating a possibility that the Creta will pursue a similarly sharp price point to avoid additional segment clashes.

Inside, apart from all the bottles of mineral water, we can spot a fairly large 8.0-inch central touchscreen infotainment system set against a rather nice-looking two-tone dashboard and interior trim.

Hyundai Creta specifications for Malaysia

The Thai and Indonesian-spec cars are also quite well-equipped with a panoramic sunroof, Qi wireless smartphone charging pad, LED headlights, and even the Hyundai SmartSense active safety suite.

Its boxier exterior is definitely one that takes/shares a cue from the Rocky as well, giving it a chunkier and ruggedised look that actually nicely matches its bold front fascia, itself a beat-for-beat repeat of the one seen
on the 4th-gen Tucson
.

We’re likely looking at a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol four-cylinder under that bonnet as that’s the sole engine used in other ASEAN market counterparts. For its part, it puts down a decent
115PS
 and
144Nm
 to the front wheels via CVT (Hyundai calls it IVT) gearbox. It gets the job done, we suppose.

However, more broadly speaking, Hyundai does offer everything from a 1.0-litre turbocharged motor offering 120PS/172Nm to the same 2.0-litre naturally aspirated (Smartstream G20) used in the lower-tier Kona, so it’ll be interesting to see if HSDM pulls an unexpected move.

Either way, it sounds like we might have a new B-segment SUV contender on our hands!


Nissan's Sway Concept Is A Fresh And Funky Spin Small Hatchbacks

Nissan
 wants to really give small hatchbacks a bold and funky new look, and that isn’t always easy. The Sway points to the company’s newest shift in design direction and hints at the company’s intentions to have the first wearer be their new Micra, which is due for an update.
The concept that’s seen at the
2015 Geneva Motor
 show does include the usual dash of impractical but nonetheless cool show-car flourishes such as the lack of a B-pillar as a result of those suicide doors, as well as that trick futuristic interior complete with glass panel roof. Nissan’s design Chief, Shiro Nakamura, said “"With this new concept car for Geneva, we are experimenting to see how Nissan might be able to bring fresh ideas to the compact hatchback segment." The swept-back headlamps that Nissan wanted to “create the impression of a pair of eyes” with, overall body shape, and the company’s “V-Motion” grille should not encounter much resistance in the way of production adaptability, however.
Although this could serve as a template for Nissan’s future small cars (particularly those aimed at the European market), the Sway remains firmly a concept; a design study. Nissan is keeping their lips sealed about the possible rollout timeline of a production model featuring these new design elements, as well as possible engine options concerning a future Sway/Micra, and least of which about a possible NISMO version.
Overall, this is one of the most well-proportioned, thoughtfully realized designs to come from Nissan in quite some time and should this foreshadow its future cars, we can rest easy knowing they’ve got the design chops to make something this compact look this good.


2017 Subaru Forester 2.0i-S Previewed – Introductory Price RM133,818

At today’s opening of the Carlist.my MAA DRIVE Test and Buy event in Setia City Convention Centre Motor Image, the distributor of Subaru vehicles in Malaysia has announced that the Forester SUV’s range will soon be expanded with the addition of a new 2.0i-S variant.
Expected to be launched sometime next week, the Forester 2.0i-S is positioned between the naturally-aspirated 2.0i-P and the turbocharged 2.0 XT, and features several aesthetic enhancements both inside and outside.
Mechanically unchanged from the 2.0i-P, the 2.0i-S’ 2.0-litre naturally aspirated engine produces the same 148 hp and 198 Nm, with drive transferred to all four wheels via a CVT-type automatic transmission.
On the outside, the 2.0i-S variant features gun-metal finished lower front spoiler in front, black mesh radiator grille, and gun-metal finished wing mirrors.
Behind, there is of course a different 2.0i-S badge, as well as a lower rear spoiler on the bumper.
Inside, the 2.0i-P’s faux aluminum inlays have been replaced with faux carbon fibre trims, while the 2.0i-P’s black leather upholstery is now replaced with red-stitched half leather half suede ones.
Prices have yet to be announced but Motor Image can confirm that within this pre-launch period, the 2.0i-S is offered at RM133,818 excluding insurance. Beyond this period, a new selling price will be announced at a later date. Meanwhile, the 2.0i-P, which normally sells for RM161,908 excluding insurance, is currently on offer at RM127,458 excluding insurance.
Come to the Carlist.my MAA DRIVE Test and Buy event that's happening at the Setia City Convention Centre today and tomorrow to test drive not just this Subaru, but to also experience more than 50 different models from 15 different brands. Test drive, compare and buy, all in one location.


Proton Targets Better After-sales Service Through Internal Competition

Proton has started a nationwide internal after-sales service competition that not only aims to sharpen the technician's skills but also as a networking platform for all after sales personnel around the country to exchange ideas and knowledge relating to their area of expertise.
The competition, with the qualifying rounds already started in July and finals planned for September, will honour six winners with cash prizes and a trip to Shanghai, China where they will visit Geely headquarters and the Geely Research Centre.
Director of After-sales Management Proton, Encik Azharuddin Abdullah said, “Our technicians and mechanics have an opportunity to showcase their skills and quality of work in handling customers’ cars. They may come from different regions to compete against one another, however, we also hope the competition brings them together to form their own peer support group.”
At the qualifying stages, participants were tested on their theoretical and practical abilities, where they were given an engine overhaul task that involves dismantling and re-assembling a Proton VVT engine within a three-hour time limit. Judges measured participants speed, accuracy, and troubleshooting competencies throughout the activity.
“Exceptional after-sales service is the key to retain our existing customers as well as attracting new ones. When we provide good quality services to them, we are able to increase customer loyalty and benefit from them spreading the news via word-of-mouth. Technicians or mechanics play an important role in ensuring this happens,” Azharuddin added.


iCarData: The Best Time To Buy/Sell A 2014 Perodua Alza 1.5L SE AT

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and the resultant MCO (and subsequent CMCO) control measures which began in March – which literally disabled the sales and distribution operations – new car sales have
taken a huge hit
 across the board.

Sales of passengers vehicles has slumped by 60 per cent to 20,260 units from 50,101 in the same period last year, while commercial vehicle sales dropped to 2,218 units in March 2019 (versus 4,675 units in March 2020). As of end-April, combined sales of passengers and commercial vehicles dropped to 106,428 units, compared to 143,036 units in the same period last year.

While buyers with bigger spending power will undoubtedly have better options, entry-level or first-time car buyers will be looking for maximum value. In this time, used cars also present a viable alternative to new cars, and there are currently, very good deals on offer, more so if you're starting a family and in search for a MPV mesra rakyat.

Overview

The Perodua Alza is a well-known and loved entry-level MPV for growing families for its combination of practicality, cheap price, and reliability. The Alza is also the longest-serving member of the Perodua range, which despite its age remains as relevant as ever, pretty much because it only has one natural rival, the Proton Exora. However, due to the marginally lower maintenance costs of the Alza, customers tend to gravitate back to the Alza.

The 2018 facelift offered newer aesthetic features and better equipment. The Alza will soldier on until next year at least.

Having been first introduced in 2009, the Alza has undergone two facelifts, the first in 2014, where it received updated aesthetic features and equipment, and the second in 2018, again with visual updates, interior updates, and a better infotainment suite.

An all-new model, based on the
Daihatsu DNGA platform
, could be introduced next year, which gives us an opportunity to evaluate just how the Alza has held its value over the years.

Up until now, it's been hard for most people to ascertain the average used value for vehicles since the sale price of a used vehicle is dependent on a variety of factors, i.e: overall condition, mechanical soundness, variant types, location, and availability.

However, now with the resources of our in-house developed
iCarData
, we can collate data from literally thousands of used vehicle deals, pinpoint our search down to the model and observe market trend and demand over the entire lifespan of the vehicle.

These algorithm-based data take the guesswork out of vehicle depreciation and help customers make better-informed purchase decisions.

Specification of the 2014 Perodua Alza 1.5L SE (AT)

Engine: 1.5-litre (3SZ-VE) inline-four Petrol

Power: 102 hp @ 6,000 rpm

Torque: 136 Nm @ 4,400 rpm

Transmission: 4-speed automatic, front-wheel drive

Safety: Two airbags, ABS with EBD, ISOFIX anchor points

Origin: Locally assembled in Serendah, Selangor

Price: RM59,913 – January 2014 launch (OTR with insurance)

In this report, we will be looking at the 2014 (M502G) Perodua Alza which was updated and introduced in 2014 (first facelift) We have taken into account the following to keep our numbers accurate and representative.

Vehicle variant: (M052G) Perodua Alza 1.5L “SE Variant" (AT) delivered in January and October 2014.

Depreciation is calculated using the original list price of RM59,733.00

Depreciation percentage does not take into account special/seasonal offers or rebates on the original selling price.

The SE Variant is used as it’s the second-highest spec offered (before the Advance (AT) variant), and a volume seller of the range, which offers a wider spread of data points across the market.

Check out our other iCarData articles on popular models such as the
Toyota Vios
,
Honda City
, and
BMW 3 Series
.

Based on ICarData, here's the summarized data for depreciation:

And the graphical analysis below:

Blue line: Average selling price (RM) by year

Grey line: Cumulative depreciation (RM) by year

Orange line: Retained value percentage by year

From the depreciation graph, we can clearly see the Alza has a superbly organic rate of depreciation, pretty much the best we have ever measured in these reports.

Save a circa 10 percent depreciation in the second year, the Alza depreciates roughly between 3 to 5 percent, in every successive year of ownership. Granted the Alza is not very expensive to start with, but given that it depreciates only 40 percent after nearly six years of service is par excellence.

This excellent value retention is also helped in part by the fact that the Alza has no natural competitors besides the Proton Exora, which, though bigger in size, is sold at largely comparative prices to the Alza, give or take a few thousand ringgit.

However, the strongest selling point of the Alza is its practicality and spaciousness - giving it massive appeal across the market sphere; from growing families to small business owners, to e-hailing drivers, the Alza has stood the test of time, simply because it works, and works superbly.

The largest single-year drop, in this case in 2016, possibly comes on the back of the introduction of the 2016 Proton Exora Bold, which much like the Alza has received
numerous updates
 throughout its lifecycle.

The introduction of the Exora Bold model could have likely shifted consumer sentiment in that year, which may have swayed the selling price of used Alzas.

The data shows that owners can choose to keep their Alza well into the sixth or seventh year of ownership without worrying about losing excessively on depreciation. Given that the cumulative depreciation does not begin to equate that of the retained value sum even after six years, an owner can choose to sell his/ her Alza even in the seventh year of ownership and still hope to retain up to 50 percent or thereabouts of its original value.

Inversely, we believe the best time for a used car buyer to snap up the Alza would be in the third and fourth years of the car’s lifespan. By now, the bulk of the car’s depreciation has taken place and the depreciation henceforth settles into a slow and steady decline.

It's also a case of 'the sooner the better' for a prospective buyer, as a four-year old Alza will still have a year of manufacturer warranty left, and more financing options.

After six years, the Alza still retains approximately 60 percent of its original value, phenomenal numbers for a car that's been around for so long.

Click
here
 for the latest deals on the Perodua Alza.

If you're looking to sell your Perodua Alza, we have two solutions for you too. List in on carlist.my or better still use
Carlist Bid
 where we remove all the hassle of selling your car for you as you get searching for your next upgrade.

Which make/ model would you like us to research next? Let us know in the comments.


Review: 2020 KIA Grand Carnival 11 Seater - Probably The Best People Carrier Around

Why look elsewhere, when the KIA Grand Carnival 11 Seater is the MPV that most families need.

If home is where the heart is, it must mean that family is where the soul is. What eases your soul more than having healthy family members? A lovely comfortable ride to ferry them around in of course!

A convoy of cars full of family members heading towards a holiday destination is always fun, but have you experienced the joy of travelling with all your family members in one car before? Trust us when we say, it's a whole lot more fun than a convoy of cars.

If you had two kids and parent in tow for a holiday, a seven-seater will usually suffice - it might be a bit cramped, but it will suffice. But what if you had to bring three kids, your sister and your parents? A seven-seater just wouldn't cut it anymore.

Thankfully for KIA, we have the KIA Grand Carnival 11 seater. The comfortable and homely KIA Grand Carnival. Perfect for my family road-trip to Penang.

Seating Configuration: 2020 KIA Grand Carnival

Initially, we were quite sceptical at how the 2020 Kia Grand Carnival might be able to carry 11 human beings on long journeys comfortably? Well truth be told, the 11 seats are better reserved for quick human ferrying around the city but ferrying eight or nine family members to holiday destinations? Now that is what the 2020 KIA Grand Carnival is built for. Eight is probably the magic number because, with eight people in the car, everyone kind-of has individual seats. This frees up the middle row which gives you ample room so that people can easily get to their seats without tripping over anything. The seating arrangement for eight people is just about right, because that free space in the middle could also serve as space for bags because with the third rear row up, there is hardly any boot space.

The third rear row of seats is quite cleverly engineered. When you do not need them, they tuck and fold away into the floor, creating a boot space enough for luggage and other bags. Unfortunately, with the third rear row up, you will have to get creative with your luggage situation. Saying that however, there is still some room in the cabin to safely put your luggage everywhere, so yeah, play some Tetris.

Comfort: 2020 KIA Grand Carnival

You'd also imagine that fitting 11 seats into a vehicle would turn the seats into anorexic seats, but yet again, KIA has surprised. The seats are just right, not too thin, not too tall. They also provide a level of comfort that can make your 4-hour journey nice and cosy for your passengers. Coupled with those overhead air-con vents on the roof, your passengers will never really make any sort of disgruntled noise, unless they begin snoring of course.

Engine: 2020 KIA Grand Carnival

The KIA Grand Carnival also has a peach of 2.2-litre turbocharged diesel engine. It has 440Nm of torque and is pretty damn inaudible. It never really felt like it was working hard pulling all that weight around. It also drives like a car and not an MPV. It's pretty fuel efficient too returning a 9.4l/100km fuel economy with a full load of passengers. We weren't driving it easy either so frugal and powerful it is.

Driving Impression: 2020 KIA Grand Carnival

The seating and driving position mimics one of those car like SUVs and the regular shock and spring suspension does well to deal with the extra weight which helps it whizz around the corners in a controlled manner. Looking at it from the outside it does feel huge, but the reality when you are in the driver seat is, it does not reflect its squat Gimli-like body shape.

If it can nip in and out of those narrow Georgetown streets in Penang, we're pretty sure it can manoeuvre almost anywhere. Parking is not that hard too and with the help of the reverse camera and all-around sensors, parking was a breeze. It's also easy to judge where the car starts and where it ends, so yeah, explore ahead and don't worry about parking.

Price: 2020 KIA Grand Carnival

Ultimately, the best thing about the car is its price. For RM179,888 you don't need to spend Toyota Alphard kind of money to get a comfortable and practical people carrier. The road tax is cheap too so who says you need a big engine to move people around? Dare we say, we might even prefer this one over that vehicle we just mentioned because for regular families, this is probably the most value for money people carrier around.

Powerful, spacious, seats galore and comfortable, what else could you ask for? Good price? Its got that too.

Specification KIA Grand Carnival

Price: from RM179,888

Engine: 2.2-litre CRDi turbocharged diesel

Power: 200PS

Torque: 440Nm

Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic

Safety: ABS, BAS, ESC, HAC, 6-airbags, ISOFIX

Additional features: Powered rear sliding doors, Automatic Tri-Zone climate control


Ouch! A Ferrari F430 Goes Up In Flames During Rush Hour In KL

Rush hour traffic in Kuala Lumpur can be a very heated affair and for this unfortunate Ferrari, it went up in flames. It was truly a sad day to see such an exotic machine being engulfed in flames and well beyond repair.

The bright red Ferrari F430 was carrying two occupants at the time – both escaped unhurt during the 6 pm incident. The Fire and Rescue Department were promptly notified but by the time they arrived at the scene of the inferno, it was too late for the Italian supercar. The cause of the fire has yet to be determined.

Local news outfit, News Straits Times Online managed to capture the raging fire as it ravaged two-thirds of the F430:

Our condolences go towards the owner of the destroyed mid-engine V8
Ferrari
. However, if he’s looking for a replacement, there’s always the
new Ferrari 488 GTB
.


'Save Uber Malaysia' Petition Started, Urges Regulation Instead Of Strict Crackdown

With the recent
crackdown on ride sharing services
 including Uber and GrabCar in Malaysia, a group known as ‘
Uber Supporter Malaysia
’ has started an online petition dubbed ‘Save Uber Malaysia’ urging the government to find a solution in regulating these services, which serve as an alternative to the current taxi services provided.
The petition,
posted on change.org
, highlights Uber’s various pros that include empowering public transport users with a “safe and reliable alternative to one of the most notorious taxi system in the world.” It also states that Uber has created countless jobs while serving the “rakyat” with safe and reliable rides.
In addition, the petition also claims that taxi special interest groups with entrenched interest to defend their current way of doing business have resulted in increased pressure on the government to outlaw such ride sharing services.
Continuing on, the petition says Suruhanjaya Pengangkutan Awam Darat’s (SPAD) move to "crush" Uber will “protect a dated and largely broken taxi system at the expense of the new transportation industry that is bringing real benefits to the ordinary Rakyat – all simply to protect the pocket of one of the worst taxi system in the world.”
In closing, the group says:
We call on our elected representative to take a pragmatic approach to regulating this new, improved alternative to our broken taxi system and not to give in to the voice of the taxi thugs!
The parties which the petition was addressed to include SPAD, Dato' Sri Liow Tiong Lai, Dato' Sri Haji Mohammad Najib bin Tun Haji Abdul Razak, the Prime Minister's Office of Malaysia, Dato' Sri Idris Jala, and the Performance Management & Delivery Unit (PEMANDU).


Listen To How The Toyota Supra Sounds Like

The highly anticipated Toyota Supra has made its debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, after a number of teasers from the company.
Toyota’s Chief Engineer Tetsuya Tada and Master Driver Herwig Daenens drove the development model up the famous hill course.
Details of the new Supra remain scarce, but Toyota did confirm that the new Supra will utilize a front-mounted, inline six-cylinder engine that sends power to the rear wheels. Despite that, Toyota did not mention if the new Supra will be available with a manual transmission.
Decked in Toyota Gazoo Racing’s black, red, and white colour scheme, the Supra will be in action throughout the entire course of the Festival, from Thursday till Sunday.
Toyota expects the new model to be introduced to the market in the first half of 2019.
Apart from the new Supra, visitors can check out the Toyota GR Supra Racing Concept and Toyota TS050 Hybrid at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.


May 2017 Vehicle Sales - Market Improves By 18 Percent

Vehicle sales for May 2017 frew 18 percent month-on-month.
A total of 50,600 new vehicles were sold, an increase of 7,854 units or 18.4% when compared to April 2017. To date, the total industry volume (TIV) stands at 234,186 units, a healthy increase of 16,065 units or 7.4% compared to the same period last year.
Looking at the data provided by MAA, Honda's cumulative sales of the first five months stands at 43,719 units, which represents an increase of 43.8% over the same corresponding period last year. Honda's market share rose to 18.7% from 15.8% in 2016.
In the national car segment, Perodua continue to hold its crown, with 17,211 units sold in May 2017. Compared to the month before, the company sold an additional 2,833 cars. Perodua's 2017 performance has also bettered its 2016 performance, with a slight 5.9% increase.
Mazda's sale took a beating as stocks of the outgoing CX-5 depletes. A total of 900 units were sold in May, a drop of 88 units from the month before. Looking at the year-on-year basis, Mazda saw a massive 34.4% drop in sales. The upcoming 2017 Mazda CX-5 is expected to arrive later this year.
Mercedes-Benz remains Malaysia's number one premium marque, with 1,084 units sold. Compared to the rest of the brands, Mercedes-Benz saw a whopping 50.3% increase in sales compared to the month before. However, compared to the same period last year, the company sold 67 units less at 4,793 units in 2017, compared to the 4,860 units in the same period in 2016. This is likely contributed by increased deliveries of the recently introduced locally-assembled E-Class.
With 234,186 new vehicles sold to date, cumulative sales have hit 39% of MAA's forecast of 600,000 units. The upward trend should continue as buyers are looking to buy new vehicles for the upcoming Raya celebration. On top of that, companies are expected to introduce several new models after the Raya celebration, including the all-new Honda CR-V.


Challenging Spirit - New Range Of Honda Merchandise To Dress Yourself In

Honda Malaysia has expanded its merchandise range to now include its new line of Challenge Spirit-themed products. The new collection can be purchased at 88 authorised Honda dealers nationwide.
Featureing The Great Wave motif, a native Japanese design, the Challenging Spirit collection encapsulates Honda’s DNA and representation of its core value in facing challenges.
Priced from RM25, there are three different collections that customers can select from.
Corporate Collection is designed as a smart casual wear, offering men’s and ladies’ polo shirts, lightweight cap and even racing shirts.
Meanwhile the Lifestyle Collection adds ladies’ Challenging Spirit T-shirts, men’s and ladies’ bomber jackets, Challenging Spirit sweater, duffel bag, backpack, tote bag, a key ring & key pouch set, leather passport holder, shoe bag, water bottle, mini travel pouch and umbrella.
Last but not least is the Active Wear collection which includes men’s and ladies’ active wear and lightweight waist pouch.
Customers can find out more at Honda’s authorised dealers or log on to Honda’s official site here.


2017 All-New Perodua Myvi D20N - Pre-Production To Start In July

Perodua's best-selling model, the Myvi is set for a refresh this year. An all-new model is expected to make a debut before 2017 ends.
The third-generation Perodua Myvi is currently under development by Perodua and Daihatsu. Codenamed D20N, the upcoming Perodua Myvi is said to be the first Perodua model to feature a Plastic Fuel Tank (PFT). A number of cars already utilize PFT, and Perodua is moving forward by fitting PFT to the new Myvi. The biggest benefit of PFT is weight savings - a plastic tank is only half the weight of a regular metal tank.

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 Elsewhere, sources within the company indicated that pre-production of the all-new Perodua Myvi will start in July and mass production will start in October. Seeing that mass production starts in October, it is safe to assume that a market launch of the new Myvi could happen some time in November, as reported
earlier
.
Looking at the company's current best-selling model, the Bezza, it is expected that Perodua will carry over some of its features to the new Myvi, including keyless entry with push start button, Vehicle Stabiliy Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRC), Hill-start Assist (HSA) and Eco Idle.
Powertrain wise, we can foresee that Perodua will drop its 1.3- and 1.5-litre DVVT engines, replacing the duo with Toyota's NR series Dual VVT-i units currently seen in the Bezza as well as the recently-updated Vios in 1.3- and 1.5-litre capacities respectively.


Toyota’s Next 'Hypercar' Confirmed For Next Week Reveal

Best of all, it will be our first look at their most terrifying road car ever: the GR Super Sport

2018 feels like a lifetime ago but at the tail end of that year, Toyota brought a very exciting concept car to the Tokyo Auto Salon:
GR Super Sport
. It looked every bit like a track-only machine with clear DNA transfer of Gazoo Racing’s own LMP1 class race cars.

There was also a hint of the car actually translating into a road legal version at some point and for sale in limited numbers (about 20) to some very lucky buyers. Four years later, on January 15th 2021, the Japanese automaker is promising that same race car’s world debut in its finished form.

Presumably, the car’s reveal is being precisely timed to coincide with the imminent start of the 2021 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC), where this full racing version GR Super Sport is due to compete in the newly minted Le Mans Hypercar (LMH) class as the replacement for the
outgoing TS050 Hybrid LMP1
 upon which it is built.

Having been developed alongside a handful of road-going homologation units, we can extrapolate the car’s rough specifications as dictated by the WEC’s new class regulations. Specifically, among other points, each entrant must meet a maximum power output of 680hp, a minimal weight of 1,030kg alongside some other limitations on total size and wheelbase, explaining the car’s rather small footprint and focused cockpit.

While there is no limit to the engine’s displacement or configuration, engine weight (presumably not including the optional hybrid assist system with KERS) must be at least 180kg, ruling out the use of too much space-age materials. So far, very little else is known about the car’s grittier details, but Toyota’s GR unit has recently published some new information that sheds more light on what will be the fastest, most badass, and probably most terrifying Toyota to ever be released to the public.

As this reveal is to be focused on the race car, we will most likely not see the road-legal version of the GR Super Sport next week, but regardless should provide plenty of indication about what we can expect from what will undoubtedly sit at the peak of Toyota’s GR performance line-up, complementing
the GR Yaris
 and
GR Supra
.

It confirms that it will indeed feature a racing hybrid system for power delivery to all four-wheels and, combined with its speculated 2.4-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine mounted amidship, will produce 680PS. At the core of this new race car is a tightly integrated carbon fibre internal structure, taking weight down to exactly 1,030kg to meet the minimum weight requirements.

Interestingly, Gazoo Racing has chosen to specify that the car will be wearing Michelin tyres, which are unsurprisingly the official supplier to the racing series. However, we do hope that the upcoming road-going version will feature a set of specially-developed Bridgestones to match the car shown in Tokyo back in 2018.

It has also been speculated that Toyota will lean on the GR Super Sport as a platform to create a yet more potent halo model that could compete with equivalent race-derived cars such as the
Aston Martin Valkyrie
 and
Mercedes-AMG One
.

Without the technical constraints imposed by the FIA, combined power is rumoured to reach 1,400hp through that same 2.4-litre bi-turbo V6 and a trio of electric motors. However, the 986hp touted by the 2018 concept car seems much more realistic.


Get Ready, All-New Mazda MX-5 Will Be A Hybrid

Nothing seems beyond the cold embrace of electrification, no matter how entrenched a car might be in lightness and ‘Jinba Ittai’ effervescence, like
the Mazda MX-5
 as the next-generation (5th) version will come standard as a hybrid.

The Hiroshima-based automaker confirmed that their famed two-door roadster will be one of the models used to showcase the benefits of a petrol-electric powertrain, according to statements given to Japan’s
Kuruma News
 as well as multiple automotive news outlets in North America, leading us to believe Mazda’s North American wing has no knowledge of the marque’s roadmap.

Previously, they’ve stated a self-imposed deadline of 2030 to have 25 percent of their line-up comprise of EVs. However, it’s still unclear how strict that definition is and whether or not
fully electric
 battery-powered vehicles will count toward that goal.

Mind you, this is also the same Mazda that had laid out their vision for long term sustainability through a more holistic approach to ecological balance, advocating that a vehicle’s ‘lifetime’ CO2 emissions include the energy and waste expended in production, its scrappage/recycling and all points during its service.

The rear-drive MX-5 is currently offered in its 4th-generation ND form and has been around since 2014, making it about ripe enough to be replaced. Given that a hybrid powertrain is on the cards, we might see its lifecycle extended to account for the extra time such a shift to electrification will take on the development of its all-new successor.

The likeliest path Mazda could take here is to pair a plug-in or hybrid component to their already
efficient SkyActiv-X petrol engines
, which, much like diesel engines, are able to combust their air/fuel mix much more cleanly through in-cylinder compression alone (i.e without firing the spark plug).

While the automaker is preparing a number of different modular vehicle platforms for deployment in their next wave of new models, including ones that support multiple powertrain configurations, it’s unclear which of those could best underpin the next MX-5. This leads us to speculate on the company carrying over the existing platform from the ND, albeit with some hefty updates and improvements.

Mazda is also working on an all-new rear-drive architecture for their upcoming 6 saloon, which is fittingly reported to also be debuting their
new inline-6 engine
 to put up a more convincing attack against European luxury cars like
the BMW 5 Series
. One of the variants offered there could also be paired with a hybrid system much like the next MX-5’s.

In fact, if Mazda can both ensure the telltale characteristics of their roadster are not dulled by the addition of an electrified powertrain while offering the added efficiency and zero-rev power delivery of an e-motor, the only real engineering hurdle left between the next MX-5 and the upcoming 6 is down to the scalability of their new rear-drive platform.

In essence, should there be enough modularity designed into the architecture, both models could be platform siblings despite being on the opposite ends of the Mazda spectrum in terms of size and philosophy.

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

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Carlist.my.

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

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Continental UltraContact UC7 Tyres Launched in Malaysia

Continental Tyres
 has unveiled its first Generation 7 product here in Malaysia - the
Continental UltraContact UC7
.

The brand's latest on-road tyre offers better all-round performance in terms of safety, noise comfort, and longevity for a wide range of passenger cars as well as MPVs.

What's new with the UltraContact UC7?

Compared to the very popular UltraContact UC6, the latest UC7 generation tyre has an improvement increase in terms of braking and control on wet surfaces. It also surpasses the UC6 by offering enhanced levels of fuel efficiency, dry braking, as well as handling.

Continental was able to pull this off with the UltraContact UC7 thanks to its Confidence+ Technology which combines the brand's best and latest compound tech and tyre construction. And they're able to do so without compromising aspects like safety, comfort, handling, and mileage.

Advanced features from 'Diamond DNA'

According to Bob Liu, Director of R&D Asia Pacific, "We have put this tyre through rigorous rounds of testing to ensure we meet our own exacting standards and can deliver cutting-edge tyre technology to consumers. We will continue to do so as we further expand the portfolio to establish powerful, competitive offerings for the market."

Featuring the 'Diamond DNA' that's paired with the Confidence+ Technology, the Continental UltraContact UC7 tyres also come with Diamond Compound, Noise Breaker 3.0 and Aqua Channel Advanced which further elevate its three key advantages in terms of wet performance, noise reduction, and long drive life.

Those who are interested should know that the Continental UltraContact UC7 is available for tyre sizes ranging from 15 to 18 inches as well as a variety of compact to mid-sized cars, MPVs, and even luxury sedans.


Mitsubishi Triton vs Caterpillar 769D - Can The Triton Tow 31 Tonnes?

The Mitsubishi Triton, despite its lightweight aluminum block engine, is still a pick-up truck that’s designed to be capable of heavy duty work and it tips the scale at 1,840 kg. On its own, it’s certainly no pushover but when parked next to the 31,250 kg Caterpillar 769D, the Triton is just a breakfast bowl for the Caterpillar.
While the Triton’s 2.4-litre MIVEC Turbo Diesel DI-D Common Rail VGT Intercooler engine produces 181 PS of power and 430 Nm of torque, the Caterpillar’s massive 18.0-litre engine pushes out 492 PS and 2194 Nm of earth moving torque.
At a glance, expecting a standard specs 1.8-tonne Triton VGT Adventure X to pull a 31-tonne Caterpillar would seem foolish but not to the folks at Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia. Watch the video below.
Read also:
How Much Load Can A Mitsubishi Triton Carry Without Bending Its Frame?


Tun M: Kebolehan Tidak Bergantung Kepada Umur, Termasuk Memandu Kereta

"Deria penglihatan dan pendengaran masih okay, jadi tiada masalah untuk melihat jalan raya dan memandu kereta walaupun untuk perjalanan jauh", Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad menjawab.

Mantan Perdana Menteri Malaysia, Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad menjawab persoalan dalam satu temubual bersama MalaysiaNow tentang keupayaan beliau untuk memandu kereta walaupun sudah berusia 96 tahun.

Kredit foto: MalaysiaNow

Beliau menambah bahawa pemandu tua atau muda bukan persoalan, bahkan ia adalah pilihan individu untuk
memandu secara berbahaya
 atau tidak di jalan raya.

Tun M yang juga pengasas syarikat nasional Malaysia,
Proton
 pada tahun 1980-an gemar memandu kereta dan berkesempatan membawa beberapa individu berprofil tinggi seperti ketua-ketua negara luar ketika lawatan di Malaysia.

Keupayaan Tun M untuk memandu kereta dengan baik di usia emas turut diakui oleh Menteri Pengangkutan,
Datuk Seri Dr. Wee Ka Siong
 ketika sidang Dewan Rakyat yang lalu. Justeru, kata Dr. Wee, tidak boleh ada diskriminasi memandu di atas jalan raya bagi yang berumur lebih 70 tahun.

Kredit foto: The Star

Ini berikutan saranan PDRM kepada kerajaan bagi
mengehadkan pengeluaran lesen memandu
 bagi warga emas dengan menjalani pemeriksaan doktor untuk mengesahkan tahap kesihatan sebelum dibenarkan memandu di jalan raya.

Namun persoalannya, wajarkah kita pukul rata golongan ini lebih berisiko tinggi berbanding kes mabuk dan langgar lari sehingga memerlukan tapisan tahap kesihatan untuk lesen memandu?


Proton- Network Upgrading Progress On Schedule

In order to prepare for the first Proton SUV, a more premium product within Proton’s portfolio, the company has placed a detailed plan to extensively improve its customer satisfaction and ownership experience.
Proton recently announced that it was
providing support to uplift its existing dealership
 from single sales outlets to more complete 3S and 4S centres. It plans to have 109 3S/4S centres by the launch of the new Proton SUV, which is scheduled for Q4 2018.
Three months after the announcement, 66 out of 170 applications have been approved for the upgrading exercise, with another dozen close to being finalized for upgrading works.
For Mohd Khairul Idzwan, of Rohamas Autoservices, “I believe the upgrading of outlet to 4S is inevitable. The order of the day is to serve customers better. This long term strategy will ensure that we can compete with other car brands around this vicinity, and elsewhere.”
Ryan Lai of LHM One Stop Car Service Centre, shared that, ”The dealer incentive support scheme not only support us in terms of monetary subsidy, it also gives a clear guide on the standard guidelines on the dealer outlet set-up requirement,"
"Our new outlet will be triple in size with a comfortable customer waiting lounge as well as family and kids area for a greater customer experience. This will definitely make the outlet outstanding and boost the marketability factor of Proton cars.”
Photos of Proton SUV spotted testing by our friends over at Careta
At production level, Proton has also adopted Volvo’s and Geely’s product quality audit scoring system, which has resulted in improved product quality.
“Moreover, since Geely came on board, it also brought with it quality assessment based on global standards which is the same as the one being used in Volvo. Already we can see improvements in the quality of Proton cars these days. This is evident based on a recent Geely audit whereby the quality has increased triple fold,” added Rozlan Abdul Manaf, of Wasilah Global Sdn Bhd.
Proton is planning to only offer the
new SUV
 at 3S centres as the vehicle is more technologically advanced and thus require more up-to-date support and knowledge.
Features such as adaptive cruise control and autonomous emergency braking are set to be offered in the new SUV.


Falken AZENIS FK510 & ZIEX ZE310R Ecorun - Perfect For Your BMW 3-Series, Honda CR-V & Perodua Ativa

The Falken ZIEX ZE310R Ecorun and the AZENIS FK510, both use the cutting edge in tyre development processes and rigorous testing, yet are aimed at different types of vehicles and drivers. Which side of the fence do you land?

Tyres are one of those items on your car that you can’t ignore. They’re essential to a safe and enjoyable driving experience. However, with a wealth of options from different manufacturers all touting similar or identical attributes, how do you know you’ve fitted your car with ‘the good stuff’?

Falken tyres have a long history rooted in high-performance motorsport, spawned in 1983 as a subsidiary brand of Sumitomo Rubber Industries of Japan, itself founded in 1909. As a Top 5 global tyre manufacturer, Falken is at the forefront of its industry.

Falken AZENIS FK510

In Malaysia as well as globally, their AZENIS FK510 stands as one of their best-ever offerings in the UHP (Ultra High Performance) class, satisfying or exceeding the expectations of demanding enthusiasts with its agile handling characteristics in wet or dry conditions while demonstrating stellar refinement and quietness.

Offered in standard and SUV-centric sizes for wheels between 17 and 22-inches, the FK510, which is made in Japan is Falken’s flagship tyre that utilises innovative Switchback Siping and a 4D-Nano enhanced tread compound to ensure exceptional grip and safety using a construction from heat-resistant (melting point >500 °C) synthetic Aramid fibres. It’s no surprise, then, that they have been supplying the FK510A SUV OE for factory fitment in the Porsche Macan.

More locally, the FK510 has garnered popularity with owners of the BMW 3-Series (F30) as they’ve found its balance of precise handling, comfort, and value to be an ideal combination for their precious German sedan which is known to deliver exceptional performance in its class from its powerful engine, sharp handling balance, and rear-wheel drive layout.

Furthermore, Honda CR-V owners were also pleasantly surprised at how upgrading to the FK510SUV (in its SUV variant and sizes) managed to extract a more engaging drive out of their family SUV, adding a whole new dimension of enjoyment and dynamism to their ownership experience without compromising the comfort or refinement of the factory-fitted tyre.

Falken ZIEX ZE310R Ecorun

Similarly, the Falken ZIEX ZE310R Ecorun has also become a favourite for owners of small SUVs such as the Perodua Ativa that desire improved road-holding while not compromising wet/dry performance, fuel economy, and comfort. This is ideal for the little SUV’s fun yet practical, efficient city driving persona.

Developed to adopt many of the technical innovations from the brand’s aforementioned flagship, the ZE310R can be seen as a ‘baby’ FK510 and uses the same Adaptive Constant Pressure tread pattern design and Advanced 4D Nano Design compound technology which enabled Sumitomo Rubber’s engineers to develop a compound that is adapted to Malaysian weather and road conditions. This in turn allows the ZE310R to offer a driving experience beyond what might have been fitted from the showroom.

This pattern and material compound was specifically designed to quickly and intelligently adapt to different surface conditions and driving styles to maximise the surface area which is in contact with the road, expanding and contracting the tyre contact surface for greater adhesion.

This works in conjunction with Falken’s proprietary Tension Control Technology (TCT) and new multi-function Styrene Butadiene Rubber (SBR) to absorb shock while providing enhanced handling capability via the rigid outside shoulder tread and bead area of the sidewall, resulting in better comfort and minimal loss in traction over uneven surfaces.

Sizes vary to fit wheels between 15” to 18” but with a total of 63 size permutations to choose from, there’s sure to be a ZE310R to fit almost any fitment - factory or aftermarket.

The ZIEX ZE310, the ZE310R’s European cousin has also won numerous awards from independent testing organisations sites such as Autobild and Auto Motor und Sport. It scored high marks in multiple high-profile independent tyre performance group tests with experts praising its dry handling and wet weather ability, further cementing the ZE310R as the tyre of choice in the passenger vehicle segment.

Falken products, officially distributed by Stamford Tyres, can be found at their retail locations
here
.

You can also follow Falken on FB and IG:
Falken Malaysia
 to keep up with their latest news and promos.


Hot Wheels Comes to Forza Horizon 3

The Forza Horizon series became one of the biggest automotive related games on the market as a result of combining two well known gaming themes: cars, and an open world map. The idea behind the Forza Horizon series is to give players the chance to not only drive cool cars at ludicrous speeds, but to do so in a seamless open world environment, and interacting with other players from around the world. It's like Need for Speed Underground 2, but far more fleshed out and integrated and with an emulation of car culture.
It's difficult to see how the developers of Forza Horizon could make their third installment any better... until now. They've announced a Hot Wheels expansion, and it looks epic. Not only does it overlay massive looping Hot Wheels tracks over the Australian-esque scenery, the pack also provides 10 new cars to play with including the Hot Wheels Rip Rod and the Pagani Zonda R. It looks like an entirely new way to play and enjoy the game, and we're sure that fans of both Forza Horizon and Hot Wheels can appreciate the new content.


VIDEO: Honda’s ‘I Like Sports’ Ad Cements Its Performance-Loving Resurgence

Honda is moving in a direction that – we’re guessing – would seem very appealing to its long-time fans and the enthusiasts that loves/loved it oh so much. That, ladies and gentlemen, is a very good thing, for all of us.
In fact, they've made a video to cement this which celebrates its past successes and future ambition. It’s a sentiment that’s been on the minds of car lovers everywhere. Now that it’s been made official, we can sit back and watch it unfold.
The signs have come into the periphery like clockwork over the past year or so;
Honda
 is back to its old ways, the old ways that made it one of the most respected and loved automakers in the heydays of the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s. But as of a few years ago, exciting cars from Honda were few and far between. And some pundits argued that the ones that were around lacked a certain magic and vigour that made its forerunners so coveted.
Fast forward to 2015, and the Honda of today seems to be on a fun upward trend. Here’s a few reasons why:
Honda NSX:
 The first-generation NSX was, and still is, something of a hero-car. People still point to it when it drives by, and not just car folk either. This is because it deserves the reputation it carries. It was a supercar that was also accessible but could strike fear into more expensive machines. The all-new 2015 NSX will be an equally special machine, as
we’ve covered
. It would take a lot to live up to its predecessor, and even if it doesn't quite measure up (doubtful as that is), at least it won’t be for a lack of trying.
Honda Civic Type R:
The 4
th
 generation
Civic Type R
 was revealed to us at the
2015 Geneva Motor Show
, and boy did that get us (and the world) excited. With a top speed of 270km/h from a 306hp 2.0-litre turbocharged VTEC engine that sent power through a manual gearbox, this car did a lot to siphon the thunder from the flashier, more expensive cars at the show. No easy feat.
Honda S660:
This spritely little open top sports car is an unusual but equally refreshing take on the subject of fun on the road. With the
S660
, Honda clearly wants to get as close as they can to go-kart-like handling and agility, pulling 0.8G on the skidpad by Honda’s own testing. A mid-mounted turbocharged 3-cylinder 660cc engine, 6-speed manual gearbox, lightweight construction, and a reasonable price sound like it could potentially be a goldmine for Honda if they pull it off. Oh and there’s a Type R version coming too.
2017 Honda S2000?:
 There has been talk of a successor to Honda’s much admired S2000. Phased out in 2009 after a 10 year production run, the rumours suggest a comeback model that's due out in 2017 to sit between the S660 and the next NSX. How much of the original S2000’s effervescent character can be retained is anyone’s guess but there will always be ways of improving the breed. After all, Honda’s has a fair number of loyal tuners and modifiers waiting for a chance like this, along with an army of loyal S2000 fans.
Return to Formula One:
 Honda is responsible for some of the most successful engines in the sport’s history and its then-partnership with McLaren became the platform for one of the most tenacious driver rivalries ever, between Alain Prost and Ayrton Senna. The marque returns for the
2015 season
, again with McLaren. Though their results so far during the first few races have not been the return to form they might have wanted, there’s chatter that the team is electing to not run the engine in its most powerful tune until they iron out the kinks. We’re curious to see what happens when they let an unshackled power unit onto the track.


BMW Malaysia Bantu Mangsa Banjir - Diskaun 20 Peratus Untuk Pembaikan Alat Ganti BMW, MINI, BMW Motorrad

BMW Group Malaysia
 mengumumkan diskaun 20 peratus untuk pembaikan alat ganti untuk pemilik kenderaan BMW, MINI dan BMW Motorrad yang terjejas akibat banjir kilat baru-baru ini.

Sebagai tambahan, pemilik yang terjejas juga akan diberikan rebat RM300 ke atas bayaran tunda oleh pengedar sah.

“Berikutan
kes banjir
 yang telah dilaporkan di pelbagai negeri di seluruh negara, kami terus komited untuk memberikan ketenangan fikiran kepada pelanggan kami sepanjang pengalaman pemilikan mereka, termasuk detik yang mencabar ini. Untuk tujuan ini,
BMW Group Malaysia
 dan rangkaian pengedar kami bersedia untuk menawarkan pelanggan kami sokongan yang mereka perlukan apabila ia berkaitan dengan kenderaan mereka,” kata Hans de Visser, Pengarah Urusan BMW Group Malaysia.

Kedua-dua tawaran ini sah dari sekarang hingga 31 Januari 2022 dan pemilik yang ingin mendapatkan maklumat lanjut boleh menghubungi pengedar pilihan mereka atau BMW Roadside Assistance (1800 88 3000).


DASH Expressway toll payments starting 1st December

Prolintas, the concessionaire company for DASH Expressway, has announced that they will start collecting toll fees for the Dash Expressway starting tomorrow.

The honeymoon period (48 days to be exact) is over because starting from tomorrow ( 1 December 2022), you will need to pay toll charges if you use the Damansara-Shah Alam Elevated Expressway (DASH).

This was announced by Prolintas today, who have set a minimum toll charge of RM2.30 (excluding taxis and buses) for each toll plaza located along the highway, including Denai Alam Toll Plaza, RRIM Toll Plaza (Kwasa Damansara) and Kota Damansara Toll Plaza.

Prolintas would like to remind DASH users that toll collection will be entirely electronic, either by using Touch' N Go card, RFID, as well as SmartTAG.

Photo credit: Bernama

According to The Star, "The operations department of the DASH expressway will always monitor toll collection systems at three toll plazas, aside from stationing officers at the toll plazas, particularly during peak hours, to assist users".

For any further questions, contact the DASH hotline on 1-300-88-5522

We have listed the complete list of toll charges for different classes for your convenience:

Class 1 (Vehicles with two axles and three or four wheels (excluding taxis and buses) - RM2.30

Class 2 (vehicles with two axles and five or six wheels (excluding buses) - RM4.60

Class 3 (Vehicles with three or more axles (excluding buses) - RM6.90

Class 4 (Taxi) RM1.20

Class 5 (Bus) RM2.30


Toyota Harrier 2020 Versus Its Older Self - Extra Status, More Luxury

Currently, the Japan-only Toyota Harrier (XU80) can only be admired from a distance. But with its predecessor officially sold in Malaysia, what can we expect it to improve upon when (or if?) it arrives…besides everything?

The Harrier is probably one of the best known luxury Toyota models in Malaysia, like the Alphard and Vellfire, the five-seater SUV gained a strong reputation for itself as grey importers scrambled to fill demand for Japan-spec units.

That side profile logo of a Japanese bird of prey became something of a status symbol that continues today. However, where the ‘ori’ version was nearly a twin brother to its Lexus counterpart, the Harrier and RX have since taken more branching paths.

The Harrier currently available in Malaysian showrooms is an impressive bit of Japanese opulence, and while it’s still definitely a step up in the ‘premium’ ladder, its newly revealed 2020 successor takes things even further.

Its luxury credentials are now even more deeply embedded, its design even sleeker and more refined, and its interior can legitimately question your preference for its German rivals, if any. As an all-new model, of course you’d expect everything to be improved. However, stacked side by side, there were some curious differences and similarities between the XU60 and XU80.

Same Size, Kinda - Toyota Harrier 2020

Let’s get this one quickly out of the way - one of the main ways that
the RX
 has distanced itself from the Harrier is in size. While the Lexus has grown larger and can even be had as a long-wheelbase 7-seater, the Harrier has remained firmly midsized, comparable in footprint to a
Toyota RAV4
 or Lexus NX.

The all-new Toyota Harrier 2020 has so far only been revealed for the Japanese market, so it’s unclear if and when it could be coming to Malaysia. Though technically larger,  the good news is that it doesn’t look to have bulked up too much. Not great for bulk grocery shoppers, good for tighter parking spots.

Platform Hopping - Toyota Harrier 2020

Speaking of the RAV4, there’s quite a lot of shared DNA between these two models. In fact, the current Malaysia-spec Harrier is built on the same underpinnings of the previous-generation RAV4. This new Harrier, though, shares the TNGA-K platform of the recently released RAV4.

While details like this may sound a little too geeky and/or insignificant, Toyota’s latest vehicle architecture has been lauded not only for its modularity, but for its structural integrity, refinement, and excellent chassis characteristics that translate to a Harrier that’s sharper to drive while being more impervious to noise and road imperfections.

Curves Itu Cun - Toyota Harrier 2020

Sure, the 2020 Harrier is a full-on generational leap, but it definitely doesn’t stray too far from the styling cues established by its predecessor. That’s a good thing, but to my eyes this newest evolution does enough not only to carry forward its past identity but has also taken it noticeably in a more positive direction.

There’s probably a good reason why Toyota’s press materials on the new Harrier show the SUV almost always in black. Maybe it’s because that dark shade shows off its curves best. There’s a lot of subtle tricks of the light here straight out of Mazda’s playbook.

The Harrier is better for it, though, and looks much sharper than the outgoing model, matching its upscale positioning. In profile, it’s even got a roofline that attempts to look coupe-like without being too obvious. Tasteful.

Bye Turbo, Hello Hybrid - Toyota Harrier 2020

Toyota has put its foot down with the Toyota Harrier 2020, offering it only with a choice of non-turbocharged engines for this generation (so far?). These comprise of either a 2.0-litre or 2.5-litre unit, both four-cylinder petrols from their Dynamic Force engine family. Spoiler, they're the same duo from the RAV4.

However, an ace up their sleeve is their pairing to a hybrid drive system in every variant aside from the entry-level. This yields a little more power, improved fuel economy, and all-wheel drive (technically). Important for the ‘luxury’ minded, the silence and effortless glide that an electric motor can provide goes a long way in keeping that sense of calm and zen as the Harrier drives along.

Would you miss the 2.0-litre turbo? That’s hard to say, especially given that even the hybrid combo generates a healthy 215hp in its 2WD guise. The AWD ‘E-Four’ Harrier gets by with a slightly higher output at 220hp.

Interior Familiar - Toyota Harrier 2020

If the RAV4 (XA50) connection wasn’t obvious enough, this should make things pretty clear. That’s not a knock on the Harrier, either, as the cabin looks very plush and the materials themselves expensive.

Right now, the Harrier occupying Malaysian showrooms is at a disadvantage given how much more up-to-date the RAV4 looks from the inside. Only once the newest version of the upscale SUV arrives on our shores will the Harrier’s appeal be truly justified.

Toyota might not appreciate us comparing the two models, and while we can’t stop people saying the Harrier is now just a fancier RAV4, it’s not like that is wildly inaccurate either. After all, that’s been true for a couple of model generations already.


LRT Kelana Jaya Rosak Kali Kedua Dalam Sebulan – Rapid KL Ke Rosak KL?

Pengguna tren
LRT laluan Kelana Jaya
 sekali lagi diduga dengan gangguan teknikal pada jam 9 malam hujung minggu lalu sehingga memaksa perkhidmatan
tren
beroperasi menggunakan satu trek sahaja di antara Stesen Pasar Seni dan Abdullah Hukum.

Gangguan itu menyebabkan tren bergerak perlahan dan berhenti lebih lama di stesen sehingga menyebabkan pengguna yang terjejas berang dan kecewa.

Tren Rosak Kali Ke-2 Bulan Ini

Kejadian ini tidaklah begitu mengejutkan sebab LRT Kelana Jaya dan gangguan teknikal seperti ini semakin sukar untuk dipisahkan memandangkan ini adalah gangguan teknikal kedua tren itu dalam bulan ini.

Pada awal September lalu, LRT Kelana Jaya dilaporkan mengalami masalah teknikal di Stesen Universiti, mengakibatkan ramai penumpang terkandas dan terpaksa berjalan kaki keluar dari tren menuju ke platform.

Kalau nak cerita sejarah, bulan Mei sahaja ada 3 kali berlaku gangguan teknikal terhadap perkhidmatan tren tersebut:

Insiden Brek Kecemasan Di Dalam LRT Kerana Masalah Teknikal – 2 Mei 2022

Tren ‘gagal’ beroperasi di stesen LRT Taman Jaya menuju ke arah Putra Heights – 10 Mei 2022

Tren rosak di KL Sentral, LRT Sesak – 20 Mei 2022

Gangguan akibat masalah bekalan kuasa punca – 24 Mei 2022

Ada KPI yang perlu diikut ke? Berapa kali nak rosak?

Infrastruktur Stesen Juga Perlu Diselenggara

Sebenarnya isu kerosakan atau gangguan teknikal ini bukan sahaja tertumpu pada tren, malah perlu juga ditekankan pada infrastuktur di stesen tren pengangkutan awam juga seperti lif dan eskalator.

Penyakit eskalator rosak ini bukan sahaja dialami di LRT Laluan Kelana Jaya, malah MRT juga. Sebagai contoh, ada pengguna media sosial melaporkan bahawa eskalator menuju ke atas di stesen MRT TTDI juga sudah tidak berfungsi.

Sementara itu, eskalator untuk turun di stesen yang sama pula telah rosak sejak empat bulan lalu tanpa dibaiki. Kalau infrastruktur pun tak boleh nak
maintain
, macam mana nak percaya yang tren boleh
maintain
?

Itu baru satu stesen, kalau nak disebutkan satu-satu, memang banyak. Buktinya dah berlambak-lambak aduan dibuat di media sosial. Tapi masih belum nampak hasil. Masih ingatkah anda dengan gambar yang tular di mana polis bantuan terpaksa angkat wanita OKU naik tangga sebab lif rosak?

Tindakan polis itu memang harus dipuji, tapi apa tindakan dari pengusaha tren pula? Sampai bila nak kerah tenaga polis bantuan? Apa guna bina lif jika tidak boleh digunakan?

Utamakan Budaya Penyelenggaraan Dalam Pengangkutan Awam

Dah sampai masanya kerajaan perlu utamakan budaya
penyelenggaraan
dalam sistem pengangkutan awam negara kita. Bukan sahaja untuk tren, malah untuk infrastruktur di stesen juga seperti lif dan eskalator.

Jika mahukan lebih ramai rakyat memanfaatkan pengangkutan awam, sistemnya perlu lah
tip-top
. Barulah orang ramai boleh pertimbangkan untuk guna pengangkutan awam untuk bergerak ke tempat kerja dan membantu mengurangkan kesesakan lalu lintas.

Kalau naik tren kena bersesak-sesak dan perlu habiskan lebih banyak masa, padanlah orang Malaysia lebih sanggup bayar pinjaman kereta 9 tahun asalkan tak perlu naik kemudahan awam.


UMW Toyota Lancar Toyota Flood Assist - Bantu Pelanggan Yang Terkesan Banjir

UMW Toyota Motor
 menawarkan program khas Toyota Flood Assist kepada para pelanggan yang terjejas akibat bencana banjir kilat yang melanda baru-baru ini.

Inisiatif ini menawarkan diskaun sehingga 25 peratus kepada jumlah bil yang perlu dibayar termasuk alat ganti dan kos buruh, serta servis menunda secara percuma.

Pemilik Toyota yang mahu menghantar kereta mereka untuk dinilai dan diberikan anggaran kos baik pulih, termasuk kerja-kerja menanggalkan komponen juga ditawarkan tanpa sebarang caj.

Toyota Motor
 turut menawarkan Pelan Pembayaran Mudah dengan kadar faedah sifar peratus bagi pelanggan yang layak untuk mengurangkan beban mereka.

“Pelanggan kami adalah sangat berharga buat kami dan menerusi program ini, kami mahu meringankan sebahagian beban mereka, walaupun hanya sedikit, bagi membantu mereka yang terkesan untuk bangkit semula. Kami amat berharap agar pemulihan untuk komuniti ini berjalan secepat mungkin dan pasukan di Toyota, memanjatkan doa ikhlas kami untuk keselamatan semua rakyat Malaysia,” kata Presiden UMW Toyota Motor, Ravindran K.

Kesemua Pusat Servis Toyota, serta pusat Badan dan Cat di seluruh negara akan kekal dibuka untuk memastikan pelanggan yang terjejas mendapatkan akses yang diperlukan untuk
kenderaan mereka yang rosak akibat banjir
.

Para pemilik Toyota boleh menghubungi 24SEVEN Road Assist yang dibuka setiap hari, 24 jam tujuh hari seminggu, atau Talian Bebas Tol Toyota di 1-800-8-869682 (1-800-8-TOYOTA).


Belia Paling Ramai Maut Nahas Jalan Raya – 50% Daripada Kadar Kematian Keseluruhan

Tahukah anda bahawa golongan belia yang merupakan harapan negara di masa hadapan merupakan golongan paling ramai dicatatkan terlibat dalam
kemalangan maut
 sejak tahun 2019?

Perdana Menteri, Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob berkata jumlah kemalangan jalan raya di negara ini agak membimbangkan dengan sebanyak 14,308 kes direkodkan pada 2019 hingga 2021. Jumlah tersebut membuatkan
kemalangan jalan raya
 menjadi antara penyebab utama kematian di negara ini.

*Kredit foto: Kosmo

Menurut PM, dalam 14,308 kes yang direkodkan, golongan belia mencatatkan kes kematian tertinggi dengan purata 7,077 kes yang mencecah 50% daripada kadar kematian keseluruhan. Statistik tersebut menunjukkan golongan belia terdedah kepada risiko lebih tinggi dan pihak penguatkuasa berdepan cabaran besar untuk membendungnya.

Beliau berkata, kerajaan boleh buat apa sahaja untuk mengurangkan kemalangan seperti lorong khas
motosikal
 namun sifat disiplin itu perlu hadir dari diri pengguna jalan raya sendiri. PM melihat kepentingan mendidik pengguna jalan raya tentang bahaya dan sebagainya bagi mengurangkan jumlah kemalangan maut.

“Golongan belia mempunyai masa depan yang cerah dan diperlukan negara, tetapi mereka ini yang paling banyak terlibat dalam kemalangan jalan raya. Lesen memandu seharusnya membantu kita mempermudahkan pergerakan khususnya dalam mencari rezeki. Kita berharap mereka yang memperolehnya dapat berdisiplin semasa menunggang motosikal," tambah PM.

*Kredit foto: Harian Metro

PM turut mengeluarkan kenyataan bahawa pihak JPJ berhasrat untuk mengurangkan kadar maut akibat kemalangan sebanyak 50% menjelang tahun 2030. Oleh itu, JPJ akan memperbanyakkan lagi program advokasi dan keterlibatan dengan pihak tertentu bagi memberi kesedaran keselamatan jalan raya.

Antara usaha yang boleh dilakukan ialah melalui penekanan kepada disiplin dan memperbanyakkan lagi program kesedaran bersama penunggang motosikal memandangkan penunggang motosikal antara yang paling besar terkesan.

*Kredit foto: Harian Metro

Berdasarkan statistik kematian penunggang motosikal yang dikeluarkan oleh PDRM dari tahun 2014 hingga 2020, sebanyak 13,436 kematian direkodkan merupakan golongan muda dari had umur 6 tahun hingga 30 tahun. Malah,
motosikal kapcai
 juga dikenali sebagai pembunuh utama golongan kanak-kanak dan remaja di negara ini.

*Kredit inforgrafik: Sinar Harian

Ismail Sabri juga telah merasmikan Program Bantuan Lesen Memandu Keluarga Malaysia (BLKM) di Kompleks Rakan Muda Bera baru-baru ini. BLKM dikhususkan kepada mereka yang memerlukan seperti golongan B40 dan masyarakat Orang Asli yang mempunyai kesulitan bagi mengikuti kelas di institusi latihan memandu bagi mendapatkan lesen memandu Kelas B2.

*Kredit foto: Malay Mail

BLKM juga memudahkan beberapa prosedur yang perlu dilalui bagi mendapatkan lesen, namun ia masih menerapkan latihan dan kursus yang perlu dilalui supaya mereka menjadi penunggang motosikal yang mematuhi undang-undang.

Antara kriteria bagi mengikuti program itu ialah warganegara Malaysia berumur 16 tahun ke atas, sihat tubuh badan dan mental serta tiada kecacatan fizikal. Selain itu, calon juga perlu dipastikan tidak disenarai hitam JPJ atau polis serta belum memiliki sebarang lesen memandu kenderaan.


Leaked Price List For 2017 Mazda CX-9 2.5 Turbo – RM316k (2WD) and RM333k (4WD)

Bermaz Motor, the distributor of Mazda vehicles in Malaysia, is expected to announce the prices for the all-new second generation seven-seater Mazda CX-9 within the next few days.
There will be two variants – front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive - both powered by a
2.5-litre turbocharged
 version of Mazda’s signature SkyActiv-G four-cylinder petrol engine. The two variants will be priced at:
2017 Mazda CX-9 2.5T
2WD
: RM316,788
2017 Mazda CX-9 2.5T
4WD
: RM333,128
Prices quoted are on-the-road with insurance, for private registrations in Peninsular Malaysia.
Note that the prices are only applicable for the first 30 units, all of which are Australian specifications models.
The CX-9 was first
previewed in Malaysia in November 2016
. We have even published our
review of the 2017 Mazda CX-9 here
, sans selling price.
Back then, prices were rumoured to be in the ballpark of around RM250,000 but we understand that high demand for the CX-9 worldwide is forcing Bermaz to delay the launch of the CX-9 in Malaysia. The shortage in supply, coupled by recent developments on the forex front means that the initial estimated price is no longer valid.
Currently, the only source for the CX-9 worldwide is at Mazda’s Ujina No.1 plant in Hiroshima, Japan.
As a short-term countermeasure to alleviate the supply constraint and to reduce the long waiting period for customers who have already placed orders for the CX-9, Bermaz has secured 30 units CX-9 that were originally bound for Australia.
Typical of Mazda, both the front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive variants will have exactly the same list of equipment and features. The only difference is one sends all its power to the front axle, while the other splits it between both axles.
Specifications for 2017 Mazda CX-9:
Engine: 2.5-litre turbocharged SkyActiv-G, direct injection, transverse 4-cylinder
Power: 228 hp at 5,000 rpm
Torque: 420 Nm at 2,000 rpm
Transmission: 6-speed torque converter automatic (FWD or 4WD)
Safety: 6 airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), EBD with BA, electronic stability control (DSC), traction control (TC), autonomous emergency braking (Smart City Brake Support, SCBS), emergency stop signal, blind spot monitoring
Convenience: Heads-up display, engine push-start button, smart keyless entry, power-operated sunroof with tilt and sliding glass, power-operated tailgate, auto dimming rear-view mirror, time adjustable wipers with rain sensor, cruises control
Infotainment: MZD Connect with 8-inch LCD display and Commander control, integrated reverse camera, 12-speaker Bose audio system, GPS Navigation with 2D and 3D view
Comfort: Leather seats
Fuel saving: I-ELOOP, I-STOP
Exterior: 20-inch alloy wheels, LED headlamps with halogen bulb-type daytime running lights, LED front fog lamps, LED tail lights, dual exhaust pipe
Warranty: 5 years with 3 years free scheduled service


2015 Kia Cerato Koup Turbo 1.6 T-GDI Quick Review @ 1 Utama

It’s a busy day at the on-going
Naza Kia
 On-Tour roadshow happening at the 1 Utama Shopping Centre, with the distributor of the brand launching the
facelifted Kia Rio
, and
revealing the Cerato Koup Turbo for our market at an estimated RM150k
, they were also kind enough to let us drive the new turbocharged coupe.

Given a brief hour-long session with the
Cerato
 Koup amidst KL’s 10am traffic, we’ll be honest to say that properly tuning our senses to the car’s handling and what not was a little bit trickier, so we’ll have to save the juicy bits for a proper test drive review we’ll get done at another time.

*
FULL REPORT: 2015 Kia Cerato Koup Previewed In Malaysia, Est. RM150k

Here, however, we did manage to squeeze three adults into the car, and bumbled our way to the Publika shopping mall and back to our starting point at the 1 Utama – exceptionally brief, yes, but it was a designated set by Naza Kia’s kind team who did let us have a quick go at all.

First impressions:

The initial encounter revealed that the Koup Turbo is quite a cosy car to be in. Getting in, the seat-belt extenders were a major bonus, given how far B-pillars are typically positioned away from you in cars with such body styles.

Once in, everything feels exactly like it is in any regular Cerato model: with all the switchgear familiarly located, it was a quick adjust of the mirrors, seats and steering wheel position, and we were off.

First thing this writer noticed was that the seats can’t be positioned downwards enough to bring my six-foot self low enough to where best left enough headroom, and kept my eyes looking straight and far ahead. My colleague, Gerard, however, would find this a perfect fit for his 5.6-feet stature.

Stuck in a bit of traffic, we began to fiddle with the car, and upon rediscovering all that’s usual to the Cerato, I switched on the seat-cooling function, which is a charm on these typically warm Malaysian days. Gerard, who sat passenger, only had a heating function for his seats, discovering it the hard way.

KEY SPECS: 2015 Kia Cerato Koup Turbo 1.6 T-GDI

Price: RM150k (estimated)

Engine: GAMMA 1.6-litre T-GDI (Turbo Gasoline Direct Injection)

Transmission: Six-speed torque converter automatic

Power: 204PS @ 6,000rpm

Torque: 265Nm @ 1,750 to 4,500rpm

Driving a 2015 Kia Cerato Koup Turbo

Once we cleared the morning traffic, it was time to see what the 1.6-litre T-GDI’s 204PS and 265Nm could offer, and to no surprise, we rather quickly arrived at further traffic just after exiting the Penchala link toll gate.

What we can tell you is that all the power you imagine to be there, is well accounted for so long as you keep your expectations of a 1.6-litre turbo in check. We wished the transmission shifts were in better sync with our inputs, but you’ve got to expect these things with a slush box.

Gunning it out of the toll booth, the Koup Turbo’s claim to 7.4-seconds to 100km/h almost doesn’t feel verified, but understandably so, because this test unit had literally just 88km on the odometer. Engine tightness will have naturally played a part in sedating the actual performance possibly available.

Ride & Handling:

Ride comfort is noticeably harsher than your regular Cerato, with Naza Kia confirming that the front springs have been stiffened to help the car’s responsiveness into a corner. Still, Gerard found himself quite cosy for the ride back there.

Thanks to Kia’s minor tweaks, the Koup feels fairly planted in a corner, showing no signs of being unsettled at the brisk pace we were driving. We can’t report on too much more than this, given the nature of our drive session, as explained earlier.

Spaciousness & Rear Seating:

Speaking of throwing Gerard in the rear, he did actually highlight how extremely spacious it is back there – made obvious by the pictures we’ve managed to grab of his legroom. The rear bench is wide and will easily accommodate three passengers his size (in only a slight squeeze), and comes equipped with lots of creature comforts: rear air-conditioning vents, cupholders on either side of the car and a foldable center armrest.

Verdict: So here’s what we think…

On the surface, it’s easy to assume why Naza Kia Malaysia have brought the 2015 Kia Cerato Koup Turbo to Malaysia: Hyundai’s done it with the Veloster Turbo, and they’re plainly responding in kind. Well, you could be right, but even removing the Hyundai’s existence from the picture, Kia does really have something here.

You could argue that its specifications, like featuring the 4.3-inch screen rather than the new 8.0-inch screen, are a little bit dated, but the simple fact is that this will effectively displace the Peugeot 208 GTi, in our minds, as the most affordable and sensible 200hp brand-new car money can buy.

Don’t get us wrong though. The Pug 208 GTi, the previous discipline champ, is a little under RM10k cheaper, and does have about 10Nm of torque more. It’s also faster in a 0-100km/h sprint by 0.6 seconds, and comes feature-loaded.

But the B-segment Pug’s hatchback body style means its rear seats are nearly unusable by anyone over five-feet tall, and its boot is equally limiting.

The Kia Cerato Koup, on the other hand, has rear seats usable by almost everyone within (or slightly above) the average height range in Malaysia, a full-size boot, and still offers 204PS and 265Nm of torque. It’s also a much larger vehicle, classified in the larger C-segment, and poised to compete with the likes of the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla Altis, and Mazda 3.

Another positive trade-off for what some might call “dated” facilities of the Koup Turbo means that its price is only marginally above that of the Pug 208 GTi, estimated for now to be RM150k.

The
Hyundai Veloster Turbo
 is a more direct competitor for the Koup Turbo, with a similar engine, tuned for fewer horses, and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. We haven’t driven the Veloster Turbo yet, but plan to do so in the near future. We’ll have to reserve any judgement for later.

On the surface of it, the Veloster Turbo does offer a more modern interior, and is finished exceptionally well. It’s even properly feature-loaded, so you can’t discount the very impressive package offered there.

However, having tested the non-turbo version a while back, I remember that while rear access has been made easier with a single rear door, space there wasn’t as massive as it is in the Cerato Koup, nor would passengers appreciate having their heads under direct sun light with the rear glass hovering just over with no protection other than whatever tint you can manage.

So… which will it be for you then? Cerato Koup? Veloster Turbo? 208 GTi?


First-Ever Polestar 2 In The Region Being Sold In Malaysia

The
Polestar 2
 has landed in Malaysia - making it the first Polestar to ever be introduced in this region.

There are not many things Malaysia can make a claim to fame to, especially when it comes to full electric cars.

We've never really been the first to have anything electric car related, not even in the region but this changed recently thanks to Vision Motorsports Sdn Bhd, who just imported the first Polestar 2 into Malaysia as well as the region.

Located at Kampung Sungai Kayu Ara, Vision Motorsport is synonymous with exotic full-electric cars as they were one of the first to import Tesla Electric cars and now
Polestar
. Vision Motorsport is also one of the first private car dealers in Malaysia to offer a free high-speed charging (DCFC) station at their showroom.

The Polestar 2 in their showroom is a made in China
high-performance
 electric car created by Volvo's sub-brand Polestar. Although headquartered in Gothenburg, Polestar manufactures all their cars in a state-of-the-art facility in China.

As the first fully electric vehicle to emerge from Volvo Cars, the Polestar 2’s rollout is most definitely a landmark event for the Swedish marque, doubly so as the four-door fastback is aimed at the lucrative premium entry-level EV market, directly facing off against the Tesla Model 3 and its ilk.

Sitting on the same Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) as the XC40, the Polestar 2 certainly puts up one hell of a fight; at least on paper. The floor-mounted batteries, comprised of 27 lithium-ion modules, are rated to store 78kWh of charge, good for a range of up to 500km based on the WLTP testing cycle.

It packs a wallop in terms of performance as well thanks to its dual 150kW electric motors, providing the car with all-wheel drive and a combined output of 408hp and 660Nm of torque. Polestar claims the car will sprint to 100km/h from rest in under 5 seconds.

By contrast, the
Tesla Model 3
 in its priciest configuration (at the time of writing) sports a 75kWh battery and an advertised maximum range of 518km. It also claims the acceleration crown too, needing a supercar-like 3.4 seconds to reach 100km/h.

The interior of the Polestar 2 is kitted with what Polestar calls weave tech material which is inspired by wetsuits thus making it resistant to water and dirt. The grey and black theme in the cabin has this business feel going for it. When compared to the Tesla Model 3 showroom car at Vision Motorsports, the seats in the Polestar 2 felt firm yet comfortable unlike the soft plush feeling seats in the American electric car.

Raja Petra who owns Vision Motorsports said that once the VTA (vehicle type approval) has been approved, the Polestar 2 will be priced between RM370k - RM420k but he is trying his hardest to price it as a sub RM400k electric car.

Right now, only a single unit of the Polestar 2 has been imported as a market tester, and if things go well, Vision Motorsports will bring in more of them, including the optional Performance version which adds on Öhlins dampers, Brembo brakes and 20-inch forged alloy wheels, as well as gold interior and exterior accents such as the seat belts and brake callipers.

We're itching for a test-drive!


Puspakom offers free Raya vehicle inspection

Worried about travelling with your car this Hari Raya? fear not, as Puspakom is offering free inspections up until the 20th of April.

During Hari Raya or Eid al-Fitr, there is a significant increase in traffic on the roads due to the increased number of people travelling to visit family and friends.

The traffic congestion during this time can have several effects on cars, including increased wear and tear and overheating if things are not top-notch.

To avoid any disappointments during the upcoming mass travelling period, why not get your car checked out for free at Puspakom, as they are offering free inspections beginning today.

Just like your loved ones, they too want to ensure that you arrive at your destination safely, which is why they are setting up many free inspection centres across the country.

If you wish to have your vehicles checked could just visit any of its branches nationwide, except for Shah Alam in Selangor, Taman Bukit Maluri in Kuala Lumpur and Pasir Gudang in Johor, from 8am to 5pm.

They are even mobilising their Mobile Inspection vehicles at several selected locations, including Ara Damansara, Sinar Karangkraf and Setia AlaImpian. To find out what other locations are listed, visit Puspakom's website or Puspakom's Facebook page.

"The voluntary vehicle inspection will focus on safety aspects with regards to brakes, side slips, tyres, suspensions, emission, lights, bottom and top of the vehicle as well as tinted windscreen," said Puspakom chief executive officer Mohammed Shukor Ismail said to The Star.