Review: New Proton Persona 1.6 Premium CVT – Building Value Where It Matters

First launched in 2016, the Persona offered more family-oriented customers with the design, equipment, and safety levels of the Iriz - which it is based upon - but with the added practicality of a generous boot.

As you would have known by now, the Iriz was recently given some much needed upgrades. Naturally, its non-identical twin - the Persona - was also given a makeover.

Among the upgrades received are improved transmission control software for the CVT automatic gearbox, better quality materials, and improved refinement levels. Here's a quick look at how the new and improved Persona fares.

Specifications for the 2019 Proton Persona 1.6L Premium CVT

Price: RM 54,600 (OTR without insurance)

Engine: 1.6-litre, inline four-cylinder, VVT

Power: 107 hp @ 5,750 rpm

Torque: 150 Nm @ 4,000 rpm

Transmission: CVT-type automatic, front-wheel drive

Safety: Six airbags, ABS with EBD, Traction Control, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC)

Origin: Manufactured in Tanjung Malim, Perak.

Overview

Launched alongside the
new Proton Iriz
, the Persona has received no less than 303 different updates (the Iriz received 367) with the aim of improving refinement, connectivity tech, fuel economy, and driving performance.

Much of the buzz revolves around the “Hi Proton” internet-enabled voice command infotainment system which is also offered on the Iriz. However, unlike the more advanced system fitted on the Proton X70 - which can control the sunroof, windows, and air-conditioning - the functions in the Iriz and Persona are limited to music, weather forecast, and navigation features.

Perhaps most importantly, prices have superbly dropped despite the added equipment; four variants are offered, starting from the Standard 1.6L Manual variant (RM 42,600) to the Premium 1.6L CVT (RM 54,600), as tested here. It also happens to be one of the best bargain buys of 2019. The revised prices make the Proton Saga (RM 33.5k – RM 41.8k) look a tad expensive now.

But unlike the Iriz, the Persona doesn’t have the unenviable task of fending off a parallel model from the Perodua stable. Perodua’s only sedan, the Bezza, goes up against the Saga. But what the Persona has to do though, is convince more affluent buyers that for a bit more than half-the-price of
Honda City
 and
Toyota Vios
, they're getting similar amounts of safety, reliability, and most importantly, quality.

Exterior

On the outside, the facelifted Persona now comes with an updated front fascia featuring the 'Ethereal Bow' front grille, similar to what is found on the
X70 SUV
. Further down, new LED DRLs and a restyled front bumper help give the Persona a fresher look. The same treatment has been carried on the rear, with a new rear bumper and bootlid spoiler. The “Proton” script is applied across the boot lid trim in the same manner of the Iriz.

The 8-spoke dual-tone alloy wheels at each corner are new too.

While the changes are more subtle than those on the Iriz, the styling updates have given the Persona a somewhat grown-up, elegant outlook.

Interior

The tested Premium variant receives the Geely (GKUI) system replete with a 7-inch infotainment head unit and the “Hi Proton” voice command system, 4G and Wi-Fi connectivity, music streaming, navigation, Over-The-Air updates, and a reverse camera with dynamic guidelines.

The gripes are the same as the Iriz: the GKUI system does not support Android Auto or Apple CarPlay so you're left with the Mirror Link, which requires your phone screen to be on the entire time. Elsewhere, while the GKUI comes with its own pre-loaded music streaming service, the audio files are pretty large and it simply cannot compare to services like Spotify (which can only be streamed via Bluetooth) in terms of song selections and customisability.

So while it’s intrinsically talented, the GKUI still needs a bit more fine-tuning before its perfect for most Malaysian users. Nonetheless, it’s a decent piece of kit and serves as a unique selling point of the Iriz and Persona.

Elsewhere, the screen clarity and reverse camera resolution are all up to par.

Proton has done a nice job sprucing up the interior fabrics and common touchpoints. The semi-leather seats, offered on both the Executive and Premium variants are comfortable and supportive even over a long drive. The leather-wrapped steering wheel also feels tactile and somewhat premium for a car with its price tag.

The dual-tone (black and cream) interior plastics might not be the easiest thing to keep clean over time in my opinion but it does serve to give the interior a nice airy feel. Personally, I think the Iriz’s black on black interior just looks sharper and would probably stand the test of time better.

Fit and finish is decent all around and besides the flimsy fuse box cover (under the steering wheel) and notchy AC controls, it’s a nice place to be in.

With 510 litres of bootspace, the Persona actually offers a smidge more volume than the Vios (at 506 litres) but trails the City’s 536 litres. To put that into further perspective, the Proton Perdana – essentially the previous-generation Honda Accord in a new cloak – offers just 470 litres.

Driving Experience

I suppose, given that the Persona is just an Iriz with a bigger boot, one would expect both of them to drive pretty similarly, but that might be an oversimplification.

Under the skin, there are subtle but detectable differences. Unfortunately, the test unit I was given had pretty shoddy tyres having been previously used for driving demonstrations hence the road noise I was hearing was substantially higher than what others had experienced in other cars. In any case, the supplied Silverstone tyres aren’t that great to start with anyway, and I say this again - both the Iriz and Persona would be far more able to exhibit their range of driving abilities if they had better tyres fitted from the factory.

With that said, the Persona definitely feels like it’s comfort biased, more so than the Iriz. Where the
Iriz feels sharp and urgent
, the Persona’s responses are slightly more docile. Over some tighter back roads, the steering is still pretty sharp allowing the driver to place the car where it needs to be and despite its added size and weight still feels decently agile in the bends. On the highway at speed, it’s surefooted and stable, and surprisingly able to handle long journeys in a single sitting given its decent refinement levels.

The brakes are vastly improved over the pre-facelift model; there’s far better linearity in the pedal response which helps build driver confidence quickly.

The updated CVT-type gearbox is also much better now, being noticeably less jerky at low speeds and far more intuitive when you need to accelerate. Performance from the naturally aspirated 1.6-litre won’t set your pants on fire, but for what it’s worth, it has pretty decent go when you need it.

Fuel consumption is a tad higher than in the Iriz. With a sensible right foot, it returns between 8.4 and 9.9 litres/100 km in urban driving and drops to around 8.0 litres/100km when cruising on the highway. Proton has recalibrated the engine for better fuel economy which has definitely improved those numbers, but I suspect it still trails the in terms of efficiency to newer engines found in cars like the Vios and City.

Conclusion

All-in-all the Persona is a very sensible choice for Malaysians who want a B-segment sedan for far less money than what non-national models like the Vios and City are selling for.

It’s a substantial step-up also, from the entry-level sedans such as the Bezza and Saga, so in terms of product placement its right where it needs to be. Priced as it is, it's superb value for money as well.

While the voice-enabled infotainment system doesn’t work as well as it needs to in our market, no other model in its segment or the segment above it offers similar equipment. Personally, give me a good audio system and Bluetooth, and I'd call it a day.

While the Persona isn’t as lithe on its feet like Vios or City, performance isn’t too shabby, and for the most part, drives almost as well for half the price. Safety features and the Persona’s tough bodyshell are other strong points to take note of, making it ideal for people with small or growing families.

For the latest deals on Proton models, click
here
.


Mitsubishi To Produce Mirage In Philippines - Supported By Generous Incentives

Mitsubishi Motors will begin producing the Mirage in the Philippines as early as 2016, reports Japan’s Nikkei Asian Review.
Philippines will become the second country in ASEAN after Thailand to produce the Mirage but unlike Mitsubishi Motor's regional export hub plant in Laem Chabang, Thailand, the Philippines-made Mirage is only for domestic sales.
Already the No.2 brand in the Philippines after Toyota,
Mitsubishi is reportedly aiming to produce 30,000 or so Mirage cars per year at the former Ford Philippines plant in Laguna province, south of Manila. The plant currently produces the Toyota Innova-like Adventure MPV and the L300 commercial pick-up truck.
The decision to assemble the Mirage in Philippines is motivated by generous tax incentives by the Filipino government. Announced by President Benigno Aquino earlier this year, the USD597 million (27 billion Pesos) Comprehensive Automotive Resurgence Strategy (CARS) offers up to USD199 million (2.7 billion Pesos) in tax incentives per qualified model.
Among the criteria to qualify is a cumulative production of 200,000 cars over a six-year period, investments in body shell assembly and large plastic parts assemblies and compliance to Philippines’ Clean Air Act.


Spoiler Alert: The Acura Integra Is Just A Civic Si, But More Expensive

What if I told you that we’ve seen
the upcoming Acura Integra
, and shockingly, you have too? That’s because it’s probably very closely related to the recently revealed Honda Civic Si.

An all-new Acura Integra will be waiting to meet us in 2022, that much is certain. What began with celebrations that the Japanese automaker (through their US-centric brand) were returning to a nimble, high-revving, analogue sports car have now transformed into
confused optimism for some
, apathy for others.

Literally, everything that we know so far about the fabled return of the Integra (under the Acura badge) tells us that there isn’t much bespoke about it at all. Like most Acuras in the North America-exclusive brand’s range, they are merely dressed up versions of existing Hondas. Why should this be any different?

The first teaser for the 2022 Integra was very mysterious with only the front headlamp and daytime running light combo in view. On this one, imaginations ran wild as the possibilities were so open-ended, but it raised even more questions:

Where could they realistically take the Integra next?

Will it stay faithful to what the fans loved about past Integras?

….How can they screw it up?

The second teaser
 was much more sobering, revealing that the 2022 Integra will be a four-door with a liftback-style slanting roofline that’s a little too similar to the 11th-generation Civic sedan. This was disappointing, for sure, but kind of an expected move for the seasoned. Honda/Acura wasn’t going to go out of their way to create a whole new body style since it’s much more economical to repurpose one already in mass production.

Some might argue that a four-door Integra isn't anything new, which is true. However, the Integra really cemented its name with the DC1 all through to the DC5 (also known as the Acura RSX), and departing from that tradition feels tone-deaf.

Put simply, it would cost too much to make it anything but a Civic, so they might not even be concerned with trying to distance the two very much.

Besides, the market for coupes is a shrinking one with many more buyers looking for something with four doors than something with two despite it not fitting the usual ‘sports car’ mould. Since it was pretty much public knowledge even before this that the next Integra will be based on the
current 11th-gen Civic
, was anyone really expecting anything truly new?

The third teaser was basically damage control, aimed to win back the fans and regain some lost momentum for the car’s eventual reveal and market debut. It merely showed an overhead view of the car’s stick shifter, confirming that it will indeed come with a manual transmission, overlaid with the high-revving VTEC soundtrack of prior generation Integras as the driver rowed through the ratios.

It was slick, fun, and stylish, and the teaser video wasn’t bad either. Job done, right? Everyone’s back onboard. All is forgiven.

But then the newest Civic Si came along - also with four doors, a coupe-esque roofline, a more powerful engine, performance suspension upgrades, a helical-type limited-slip differential, sports seats, and a manual transmission with a short-throw action and
Type R-style
 rev-matching.

It pretty much stole every key feature the Integra was dangling over fans to drum up excitement, but offering them to buyers months ahead of the Integra’s reveal and at a lower price.

For those unfamiliar, the ‘Si ‘has become a recurring addition to the range that focused a little more on exploring the base Civic’s performance potential, peaking (in my opinion) with the previous 10th-generation car that also boasted a unique two-door body style. Sadly, due to lacklustre sales, Honda has stuck to offering the 11th-gen Civic as a four-door saloon or hatch only.

We’re willing to wager that the only point of difference left for Acura to play on is that engine. Where the new Civic Si uses a lightly up-tuned version of the same 1.5-litre VTEC turbo petrol engine with 200hp and 260Nm, the Integra should (must?) come in with a proper step up.

Since we’re unlikely to see a return to a high-revving naturally aspirated engine and VTEC screams, the 2.0-litre K20C engine should do a great job at upstaging the Si on pure pace. The 316hp K20C1 is one of the most defining elements of the FK8 Civic Type R’s driving experience.

However, if that’s a little too hardcore to the supposedly ‘premium’ Acura brand, there’s always the less highly-strung K20C4 that features in the 10th-generation Accord for markets such as North America.

Even with a smaller turbocharger and different internal components, it still offers 252hp and 370Nm to the front wheels, which should be plenty to exploit for the kind of keen drivers the 2022 Acura Integra seeks to appeal to.

Anything short of these efforts will likely doom the next Integra, labelling it as nothing more than a low effort dressing up of the Honda Civic, a car the world has collectively agreed is already excellent, but garnished with a nameplate it doesn’t live up to and priced pointlessly higher than the near-identical Civic Si while offering little in return.

What was initially anticipated to be the dramatic return of the lightweight Japanese sports car from Honda to rival the
Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR 86 twins
 could devolve into a situation just as anti-climatic as the reveal of the 2022 second-generation
Subaru WRX
 and its crossover pandering. We’ll just have to wait and see…

For most Malaysians, this is likely to be an inconsequential matter as both the 2022 Acura Integra and Honda Civic Si are extremely unlikely to find their way onto our shores in any official capacity. Other than the Type R occasionally popping in, there isn't much in the way of sporty Hondas in general for us to enjoy.


RM400 Billion To Tackle Flood Issue Until Year 2100 - Environment and Water Minister

How much would it cost Malaysia to bring the annual/periodical/seasonal
flooding problems
 under control for the next 78 years (until the year 2100)? That’ll be RM392 billion, please.

That figure, widely rounded by the press to RM400 billion, is what was quoted as an estimate by the Environment and Water Ministry, delivered by its Minister Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man.

RM400 Billion to solve flooding problem needed until 2100

According to him, the government has been making serious efforts in curbing the floods caused by erratic weather patterns as a result of climate change
through large investments
 in the country’s water sector.

This included, he added, an ‘off budget’ allocation of RM15 billion for a period of 8 years between 2023 and 2030 to tackle flood mitigation projects such as the construction of sabo structures in critical flood-prone areas impacted by the North East Monsoon.

However, that amounts to around RM2.142 billion each year which, when extrapolated to the year 2100, should result in a figure closer to RM167 billion if the measures and spending stay consistent. This is far lower than the Minister’s quoted number of RM392 billion.

To this, Ibrahim said during the 2022 Climate Change Symposium on Monday: "This cost estimate, among others, includes the main components of flood mitigation and urban drainage amounting to RM230.71bil and coastal infrastructure amounting to RM126.55bil.”

He added that mid and long term measures were being prioritised by the government for infrastructure protection to ensure the wellbeing of the people, particularly those living in areas prone to water-related disasters.

"The Ministry is also drafting details for the implementation of climate change adaptation. The rise in global temperature will further increase the risk of disasters and the direct impact on the well-being of people and the economy.

National Water Sector Transformation Agenda 2040 developed to combat climate change

"In this regard, the government has developed the National Water Sector Transformation Agenda 2040 starting with the 12th Malaysia Plan up to the 15th Malaysia Plan,” he said.

Meanwhile, Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Azhar Azizan Harun stressed the important role every member of parliament has to play in flood issues by creating awareness of
climate-related issues such as flooding
 in their constituencies.

"MPs can play a role by getting involved in civil society organisations, including those related to climate change, sustainable development, humanitarian aid and disasters, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and youth groups.

"Members of Parliament in civil society will be able to contribute their experience and guidance in providing assistance to local communities affected by disasters,” he said.


Resurrecting Number 57 - Barn Find Porsche 911 Becomes Storied Museum Piece

One August morning, Alexander Klein, Manager of the Classic Car Collection at the Porsche Museum received a phone call after 50-years of waiting.
Well not him solely, let me explain.
For 50 years, the Porsche factory collection had lacked an early-model 901. All of the customer vehicles produced up to that point were manufactured as 901 vehicles but sold as 911 vehicles - due copyright dispute with Peugeot.
In 2014, while valuing a collection of items long forgotten about in a barn, a German TV (RTL2) crew working on an antiques and memorabilia programme stumbled across two 911 models, lying in a barn that dated back to the 1960s.
During that phone call – the team read out one of the car’s chassis numbers – 300 057. And as Alexander Klein said, “the penny dropped”. The TV crew had stumbled upon one of the earliest 911 vehicles ever produced, built in autumn 1964 as a Porsche 901.
Eleven days later, two experts from the Porsche Museum went to the former farm in Brandenburg to inspect the two vehicles.
They first encountered a gold-coloured 911 L from 1968 in a very poor state of repair. At the very back of the barn, covered by a thick layer of dust lay the remains of a red 911.
What is a Porsche 901?
A wish list jotted down by founder Ferry Porsche on a squared paper included the following features: “2-seater with 2 comfortable jump seats. Rear view mirror integrated in the wings. Easier entry”.
At the same time, the sales department didn’t want a radical new car, just an evolution of the original concept. The concept had to remain too, with engine housed at the rear.
Many design concepts were received and examined, but all failed to fit the aspirations of the founding father. Until a promising intern joined the design office of the former Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche KG in 1957, his name was Ferdinand Alexander Porsche (Ferry's son) – who produced a model of a coupé that for the first time came closer to Ferry’s ideas.
A prototype called Type 754 was created in 1960 as a highly promising four-seater study.
Like Ferry had requested – Type 754 had the flattened bonnet between the free-standing wings, inclined built-in headlights, A-pillars with the windscreen and elegantly shaped rear section.
But the roofline didn’t have that fastback slope – Ferry rejected the four-seater idea as a compromise and the 2.40-metre wheelbase from the previous design was shortened to 2.20-metres.
In 1962, work started on the development of this fastback coupé with a 2+2 seating arrangement. Called type number 901. On the evening of November 9, 1962, the first prototype rolled out of the Zuffenhausen factory gates for a test drive.
At the IAA Frankfurt Motorshow on September 12th, 1963, Porsche celebrated the world premiere of the 901 with a pre-production vehicle, even though its specification was far from being finalised.
The six-cylinder horizontally-opposed engine with eight crankshaft bearings was a completely new development. Dry-sump lubrication ensured an adequate supply of oil, even at high longitudinal and lateral acceleration. One camshaft rotated in each of the cylinder heads, driven by intermediate shafts and a chain. With a compression ratio of 9:1, the 2.0-litre engine delivered 130 hp at 6,200 rpm.
On September 14, 1964, the Porsche 901 went into series production. The first vehicles were kept by the factory or used as exhibition vehicles.
One of which was sent to the Paris Auto Show which opened in the same month.
The exhibition gave Porsche an unexpected problem with Peugeot in early October 1964, on the grounds of copyright infringement. Peugeot has almost exclusively owned the three digit naming convention (in France) and had used it on its models since 1929.
This prompted a rather practical solution from Porsche – by changing the “0” to “1”, simply because it avoided extensive changes being made to the print layouts that had already been prepared for sales and advertising copy, operating instructions and other documents.
The Porsche 911 was born.
Resurrecting Number 57
Number 57 sat with both front wings missing and large sections of the vehicle eaten away by rust. Save for the instrument panel, most of the interior consisted of mere fragments. The brakes were seized, and so was the engine. But the chassis number was pristine.
After a detailed inspection and valuation reports submitted by two external experts - Porsche paid a sum of EUR 107,000 for the red original 911, and EUR 14,500 for the golden 911 L, (which will remain as unwashed, living history in the museum) – the figures were far beyond the seller’s expectations.
Number 57 as it had come to be nicknamed – had most its components heavily corroded and unusable. Other parts – such as the inner and outer sills on the right-hand side, as well as the front bumper and its mountings – were missing completely. Things didn’t look much better in the chassis area as all the axle and axle guide mountings on the front and rear axles had been severely affected by pitting corrosion.
The restoration process which took some three years started with a complete disassembly of the vehicle. Much care was taken, regardless of if it proved impossible to save a particular component, there was still a chance that it could serve an important function as a sample part.
The individual parts of the early 911 were then sent to a network of specialists at Porsche Classic and suppliers, as well as body engineers, saddlers and upholsterers.
The remaining shell was placed in a chemical bath for de-rusting and paint removal. The surfaces that were uncovered were in exactly the same condition as when they were sealed over 50 years ago. In fact, initial investigations had assumed that over 50% of the body had been destroyed. However, as it turned out that over half of the sheet metal was worth preserving.
Over 12 months of highly crafted work went into the shell. Body parts were supplied by a 1965 ‘donor’ car, even replacing sheet metal ‘welding point by welding point’ onto Number 57. The longitudinal beams were also replaced, as were all of the vertical, interior and exterior panels in the side skirts.
Upon completion of the bodywork, came the precision grinding stage, which involved mounting the glazing, bumpers, door handles, antenna, headlights, and trims, as well as all add-on parts from Porsche Classic, on the unpainted body.
By doing so, the experts ensured that the clearances in the body all matched up, as well as the distances and symmetries of the bumpers and overriders, panels and grilles – any components that didn’t fit, were reworked or adjusted.
However, authenticity had to take a back seat in respect of the Signal Red 6407 paint colour. Instead of the original mixture of solvent-based paints, the specialists developed environmentally friendly water-based paints. When it came to protecting the rare piece of metal – Porsche opted to protect the metal with the same cathodic dip anti-corrosion coating bath as today’s 911 vehicles.
Porsche Classic chose to completely rebuild the engine. Although the engine and gearbox in Number 57 were not the original units, they were of the correct specification. The cylinder heads and control system could be removed without any problem, but the pistons were stuck fast in the cylinders. A combination of rust remover, heat, time and patience finally brought away the crankshaft. The crank mechanism was then rebuilt in its entirety from new genuine parts.
Over the course of around 120 working hours, the six-cylinder engine was painstakingly restored to perfection. The slow process was necessary to take precaution against breaking parts and reproducing parts which were not kept in in stock by Porsche Classic.
Even the interior was built with meticulous attention to detail. For instance, replacing screws of the right shape to mount the car’s indicators, to adapting the cable harness of later 'F Series' 911 to remount all of Number 57’s original glass pieces.
To restore the original design of the interior roof lining, workers had preserved a piece of the interior roof lining, then used original ‘spiked roller’ tool from the 1960s to stamp patterns to repair and restore the original pattern of the interior roof lining.
In summer 2017, the “marriage” of the Number 57 took place as the flat-six engine returned to its rightful place.
Number 57’s Last Surprise
After a painstaking three-year restoration process – the oldest 911 in the Porsche Museum was given its new lease of life in Autumm of this year.
Some 53 years ago, on October 22, 1964, Ferry Porsche finally gave the order for the name to be changed. From that day on, the 901 was to be called the 911.
On that very day – October 22, 1964 – the last of three 901 vehicles was taking shape in the production department, which was to hit the road under the new 911 moniker, that last red coupe bore the chassis number 300 057.


VIDEO: It’s Raining Ringgits In Singapore! RM50 Notes Scattered All Over Highway

Here's an exceptionally rare right: raining Ringgits in Singapore? Yikes.
We first spotted a video of this one going viral on social media yesterday evening, but couldn’t quite tell from the footage if the news was true, nor were there much of a sustainable description to provide any grounds.
Now, more reports are surfacing on the event, with The
Straits Times
 in Singapore picking up the news, with quotes from several eye-witnesses who confirmed the happenings.
Yes, it was raining RM50 notes on Singapore’s Bukit Timah Highway yesterday, and no one seems to know where it all came from. Eye-witnesses  estimated that up to RM10,000 could have been in the area.
Of course, motorists were stopping all over the place to get what they could, I mean, wouldn’t you?
But as the Straits Times point out, those caught for taking the money could face up to two years in prison, and or a fine as per Singapore law.
In any case, it’s an extremely rare thing to see on the road, one that we all wish we could witness for ourselves, don’t we? Here’s a dash-cam clip of it.

Orang ramai kutip duit RM50 yang bertaburan di jalanraya :)
Orang ramai kutip duit RM50 yang bertaburan di jalanraya :)More : Sukan Star TV @ Sukan Star .com @ sukanstar.com
Posted by
Sukan Star TV
 on Tuesday, 4 August 2015


All-New BMW (F93) M8 Gran Coupe Unleashed – 600 HP, Track Mode

Just months after
revealing the 8 Series Gran Coupe
 in all its beautiful glory, BMW has pulled the covers off the most hot-blooded versions of its four-door sportscar: the (F93) M8 Gran Coupe (GC) and M8 Competition Gran Coupe (Comp. GC).

Developed alongside the two-door variants of the
new M8
 and the
M8 GTE
 endurance racecar, the M8 GC has undergone intensive testing at BMW’s Miramas and Arjeplog test centres, and fine-tuning at the Nürburgring-Nordschleife circuit to deliver trademark BMW “M” division dynamic performance, agility, and precision.

Under the hood is a high-revving 4.4-litre turbocharged V8 engine (similar to that of the
F90 M5
) which develops 600 hp in the M8 GC and 625 hp in the Comp. GC, torque is identical in both cases, delivering 750 Nm between 1,800 rpm and 5,800 rpm. Cooling and oil supply systems have been optimised for track use, while an electronically controlled sports exhaust system promises quite the soundtrack at full tilt.

The engine is mated exclusively to BMW’s ‘M Steptronic’ 8-speed automatic transmission which distributes power to all four wheels through the company’s M xDrive all-wheel-drive system linked with the Active M Differential. Choice of three powertrain modes: 4WD, 4WD Sport and 2WD with pure rear-wheel drive and deactivated VSC mode. The M8 Comp. GC additionally has three main drive modes: Road, Sport, and Track.

In terms of performance, the M8 GC will complete the century sprint in 3.3 seconds, Comp GC gets there a smidge quicker at 3.2 seconds.

The chassis has also received some tweaks to cope with the additional power, the M8 receives an array of extremely stiff mountings connecting the suspension to the body, likewise electronically controlled dampers and electromechanical M Servotronic steering are all standard fare. For ten first time also, the new integrated braking system enables two different brake pedal application settings: Comfort and Sport.

Note too. that the M8 GC and M8 Comp. GC have a slightly longer wheelbase, at 200 mm longer than that of the two-door variants of the M8.

In terms of aesthetics – the M8 GC and Comp. GC receives subtle design elements such as blacked out Kidney Grille and side gill garnish at the front and gloss black spoiler and rear apron round the back. The M8 GC is supplied as standard 20-inch ‘M’ light-alloy wheels.

On the inside, the M8 GC receives exclusive M Sport seats, trimmed in a unique Bi-colour leather trim, and seat belts. Elsewhere, the M8 GC receives an ‘M’ leather steering wheel, newly designed gear selector lever, and redesigned graphics for the instrument cluster, Head-Up Display, main infotainment control display.

The new BMW M8 Gran Coupe and new BMW M8 Competition Gran Coupe will celebrate their world premieres at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November 2019. The earliest market launches are slated for April 2020, when the BMW M8 GC will go up against the likes of the Porsche Panamera and
Mercedes-AMG GT four-door Coupe
.


ETCM Ramps Up Production Of All-New Nissan Serena

Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd (ETCM), the official distributor of Nissan vehicles in Malaysia has just announced that they will increase production of the all-new Serena to cope with the increased demand.
Since its introduction back in May, ETCM has received a total of 5,500 bookings, and the company has delivered 4,000 units as of 30
th
 October 2018.
Christopher Tan, Sales and Marketing Director of ETCM said, “This great achievement can be attributed to the spacious and comfortable cabin, along with the advanced safety features of the All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid such as 6 SRS Airbags, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), and Traction Control System (TCS), while the 13-seat configurations mode, Zero Gravity Inspired Seats, 2
nd
 row captain seats with dual armrest, and the 3
rd
 row sliding seats, are the core reasons why Malaysian families chose the Serena as their perfect 7-seater MPV. Our assembly plant (TCMA) has been focusing on increasing its production whilst ensuring the highest level of product quality, and continuously speeding the deliveries. We are extremely thankful to our valued customers for their continuous support, understanding and patience.”
To recap, the all-new Nissan Serena is powered by a direct-injection 2.0-litre MR20DD four-cylinder petrol engine that does 150 PS and 200 Nm, which is sent to the front wheels via a CVT-type automatic transmission. As before, the all-new Serena continues to be powered by the S-Hybrid micro-hybrid system, utilizing a pulley-driven starter-generator that contributes 2.6 PS and 48 Nm during initial acceleration from a standstill.
Two variants are available of the all-new Nissan Serena are available, including:
Serena 2.0 S-Hybrid Highway Star - RM 135,500
Serena 2.0 S-Hybrid Premium Highway Star - RM 147,500


GALLERY: 2015 Kia Rio At 1 Utama Shopping Centre @ On Tour Roadshow

As we only just revealed to you, Naza
Kia
 Malaysia
has launched its
new 2015 Kia Rio
. The car is available for viewing at the 1 Utama Shopping Centre at the company’s on-going Kia On Tour roadshow.
In welcoming the new exterior and interior updates, the
Kia Rio
 line-up has now been reduced to just the one high-spec SX variant, which retails in Malaysia from RM79,080 (OTR, inclusive of insurance and GST).
*FULL REPORT: 2015 Kia Rio Launched In Malaysia, From RM79,080
We’re reporting to you live from the 1 Utama Shopping Centre, where you can also check out the new Kia Rio, alongside none other than a surprise visitor, the 2015 Kia Cerato Koup Turbo!
Up to RM15,888 cash rebate deals are being offered on various Kia models here, so be sure to check it out between now and this Sunday.
Stay tuned to Carlist.my for our brief test drive report of the all-new 2015 Kia Cerato Koup Turbo (which happens in a few moments), as well as a full gallery and report of that new model, soon.


Raids By Ministry Discovers Counterfeit Hyundai Parts

Last month, a raid by the Domestic Trade, Cooperatives, and Consumerism Ministry discovered that some unscrupulous auto parts dealers have been selling fake Hyundai parts as genuine parts.
These counterfeit parts include oil filters, air filters, brake pads, and spark plugs, which are ‘fast moving parts’, a term used to describe parts that are replaced when a car is serviced. The news report by
Malay Mail
 added that these counterfeit parts are sold at the same price as original parts to fool customers.
Jaeho Lee, the intellectual property manager of Hyundai Mobis said, “Hyundai Mobis views this offence of selling fake parts as very serious as is compromises the safety of the consumers.” Hyundai Mobis is the original manufacturer of these parts.
In an effort to prevent customers from getting cheated, Hyundai Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) is offering up to 20% discount on selected genuine parts until 31 July 2018 when customers send their vehicles in for servicing at authorized service centres.
Mr Dennis Ho, Managing Director of Sime Darby Motors (Malaysia, Thailand and Taiwan) said, “Continuous education on the safety hazards of using counterfeit parts is important. Customers can be assured that authorised service centres use only genuine parts and can offer customers a peace of mind when it comes to the safety of their vehicles.”


Avengers: Endgame Featured In Audi E-Tron Superbowl Spot

We've known Audi to be a long time supporter of the Marvel movie franchise, going all the way back to the Iron Man movies that started it all. Of course along the way there have been other manufacturers that have stepped in and had their products heavily featured, but Audi has perhaps been the longest and most consistent of all.
In doing so, this probably earned them to right to do this one-off, non canonical Superbowl ad featuring Captain Marvel and the Audi E-Tron. While this won't be part of the upcoming movie, it's a nice tie-in to the storyline that makes a little bit of sense if you follow the Marvel movies. For the rest who don't, it's a funny take on the changes in society over the last two decades or so.
The Audi E-Tron is Audi's electric vehicle for the (relative) masses. While it may not be as ultra-sexy as the Audi E-Tron GT Concept, it's the most important vehicle for Audi as they scramble to meet tightening fleet emissions regulations. The market has a huge appetite for SUVs, and electric SUV is the best way to get people to accept it. The raw figures are as follows: up to 408 hp and 664 Nm of torque from a standstill, electric quattro all-wheel drive, 300 km range, 30 minutes to charge to full with a fast charger, 8.5 hours to charge with a home socket. To find out more, check out
our launch story here
.
Whatever your view is, it's impressive how fluidly Audi has transitioned from championing their conventional vehicles to jumping right into electric vehicles. It's almost entirely natural, as if to say that the E-Tron is an "Audi first, electric vehicle second". Not every manufacturer is taking this approach, but perhaps this is the easier way to transition traditional customers into their newer line of products.


Volvo Car Malaysia Expands Certified Pre-Owned Car Programme

Volvo Car Malaysia is extending its pre-owned car programme, Volvo SELEKT, to more Malaysians through its authorised dealer Western Circle (PG) Sdn. Bhd. in Penang, with additional listings available on Carlist.my.

Volvo SELEKT was launched in 2020 to provide uncompromising excellence and quality pre-owned Volvo cars to customers. Previously exclusively offered through Sisma Auto Glenmarie, Western Circle will be the second of two authorised Volvo dealerships to house SELEKT cars.

Strategically located in Juru, Western Circle services customers and clients in the Northern region with the highest standards of customer care and authentic luxury hospitality, set by Volvo Cars.

In addition to physical dealerships, consumers can also browse and shop for Volvo cars – either Volvo SELEKT or Volvo quality used cars – conveniently from the safety of their homes through the
Volvo Used Car Locator
, an online platform that holds an inventory of all Volvo pre-owned cars available across 14 dealerships in Malaysia.

In response to the warm reception, increased demand for pre-owned Volvo cars, and the convenience of online browsing, Volvo Car Malaysia has partnered with iCar Asia to list all available pre-owned models from Volvo’s participating authorised dealers on its online buying and selling used car listing platform, Carlist.my.

Charles Frump, Managing Director of Volvo Car Malaysia, said: “When customers purchase a Volvo under our Volvo SELEKT programme, they are not just getting a more streamlined shopping experience of quality cars at a more accessible price but also peace of mind through our dedicated service and assurance of quality.”

All Volvo SELEKT cars undergo Volvo-approved checks to ensure that they meet the safety, performance, and appearance standards. This check and selection process can only be done by authorised Volvo Car dealers. Consequently, each dealership holds the same criterion for all pre-owned vehicles and conducts a series of checks and updates to ensure that all Volvo quality used cars are maintained up to Volvo’s standards. Additionally, new Volvo SELEKT car owners will get a complimentary 12-months warranty and a 1-year maintenance service package (VSA 1), as a head start.

For more information on the Volvo SELEKT programme and its offerings, please visit Volvo Car Malaysia’s Used Car Locator at
https://selekt.volvocars.com.my
.


VIDEO: Ouch! How Does This Much Car Damage Come From A Bicycle?

There have been altercations arising between two-wheel vehicle users and their four-wheeled comrades, each one detracting the other’s choice mode of transport. But none as apparently brazen as this.
Now, the video: We see a couple who just parked their white
BMW

X1
 and are unloading some items from the backseat to, presumably, enjoy a day at the beach. Out of nowhere (around the six second mark), some guy on a bike body slams himself right smack into the rear of the car at speed. The cyclist is thrown out of frame from the impact, leaving the BMW’s rear windscreen shattered and its boot lid deformed. Honestly, we didn’t know one guy on a bike could do so much damage with just his pale shirtless self.
Perhaps BMW had considered this; had the rear not taken the impact so well, the rider’s injuries might have been more serious.
Video via LiveLeak


Proton Saga For Below RM30k, Company Pledges RM10 Per Car To Fund

In conjunction with the Raya festive season, Proton is offering customers the greatest Saga deal with the best price in 10 years. Other models in the Proton line-up are also offered with big ‘Duit Raya’ promotion for the entire month of June 2018.
Saga - RM3,500
Iriz - RM4,000
Persona - RM3,000
Ertiga - RM4,000
With the RM3,500 'Duit Raya' as well as the
 new price of zero-rated GST
, the entry level Saga 1.3 MT Standard can be had from RM29,623.87 before other adding in accessories, road tax, registration fees, HP ownership fees, registration number, and insurance.
Proton is also making an additional initiative as the first national car maker that pledges to donate to the ‘Tabung Harapan Malaysia’, a fund the new government set up for the public to contribute to settling the national debt.
Proton has pledged RM10 from every Proton car purchased from today until 31 December 2018. Based on their current 2018 performance of 4,000 units per month, this seven month period could contribute RM280,000 to the fund!
In terms of after sales promotion, Proton will be giving out goodies of either an inverted umbrella or the Roslon screwdriver set to customers who service their cars using Petronas Syntium SE 3000 and Syntium SE 800 engine oil. The offer is only valid until 15 June 2018.
Aside from these freebies, Proton will also be offering a free 20-point inspection at all its outlets nationwide, from now until 15 June 2018. The 20-point inspection will cover areas like brake and clutch pedal operations, all switches, safety belts, battery checks, engine oil, coolant and others.
Proton is also extending this free inspection to those travelling on long journeys towards the East Coast, North and South regions before the Hari Raya Puasa holidays. Proton service teams will be placed at three strategically located Petronas stations on the 12 and 13 June to assist customers on the free 20-point inspection. These Petronas stations are:
East Coast: Terengganu - Petronas Jertih, Lot 134 Mukin Pelagat, Kawasan Seberang Jerteh
North: Kedah - Petronas @ RZ Maju Teguh Ent., Lot PT 33762 HS(D) 3390/95, Bandar Laguna Merbuk, Sungai Petani
South: Johor –Petronas @ Eidaman Berkat, Lot PTD 53091 HS (D) 44103 & 53092 HS (D) 44109, Bandar Baru Air Hitam, Kluang


JPJ is helping companies to announce product recalls

Product recall announcements have always been the responsibility of the vehicle companies with their customers and product owners, but the
JPJ
 is now doing something extra about it.

From now on, the Road Transport Department or JPJ will assist in making the product recall announcements via its social media pages and portal. With JPJ lending a helping hand, the public will hopefully have more awareness in regard to vehicle or product recalls.

This particular implementation was initialised to be in line with the wishes of JPJ's Director General, Ybhg. Dato' Zailani Hj. Hashim. His Bilateral Meeting with the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport & Tourism (MLIT), National Traffic Safety and Environment Laboratory (NTSEL), and also Japan Automobile Standards Internationalization Center (JASIC) focused on product recall benchmarking activities that are being conducted by the Japanese through official websites and mass media.

It's a good move to create more awareness considering the fact that any product recall needs to be notified to the Road Transport Department under Section 66 (1)(pp) of the Road Transport Act 1987. Further actions from JPJ include progress recording and monitoring for all units involved in the recall.


The Volvo XC40 Recharge Is Their First All-Electric Model

Things have moved a lot faster than we expected. Volvo has fast-tracked the roll out of their all-electric XC40, now known as the XC40 Recharge. It’s the first of its kind in the Volvo Cars range, and there will be many more all-electric cars to come in the future.

The XC40 as we know it as Volvo’s smallest model on offer, replacing the S40 and V40 models of old with a crossover that appeals to the modern consumer. For the next five years, Volvo will be launching one all-electric vehicle every year, with the aim to make all-electric cars 50% of their global sales by 2025.

What’s more interesting is the fact that the Recharge suffix will also retroactively apply to all plug-in hybrid models as well as the upcoming all-electric models. To sweeten the deal, all Recharge models will come with free electricity for a year, with a refund from Volvo for the average electricity cost during the period.

The important numbers for the XC40 Recharge are a range of 400 kilometers on a single charge, and a power output of 408 hp, as well as a battery charge rate of 80% in just 40 minutes on a fast charger system. Anticipated growth for the all-electric model and its current line of plug-in hybrids has Volvo tripling production capacity for electrified vehicles, with a target of 20% of total sales in 2020.

But beyond the fact that it’s a battery and electric motors propelling this XC40, the central party piece is the Android-based operating system for the entertainment system that now allows over-the-air updates for the car, as well as full integration with Volvo On-Call.

To find the best deals on Volvo models, click
here
.


Kenapa Hanya Tun M Guna Kereta Tempatan Sebagai Kereta Rasmi?

Minggu lalu, kita telah menyaksikan beberapa pemimpin politik negara telah dipanggil untuk mengadap
Yang Dipertuan Agong
 di Istana Negara bagi membincangkan isu semasa mengenai COVID-19 dan ekonomi negara. Dari situ, kita boleh lihat ada pelbagai jenis kenderaan mewah yang digunakan oleh ahli politik sebagai kenderaan rasmi mereka. Pernah tak terfikir kenapa mereka tak guna kereta keluaran tempatan sahaja?

Sebelum kita pergi lebih mendalam tentang mengapa kerajaan tidak lagi menggunakan kereta tempatan seperti Proton Perdana sebelum ini sebagai kenderaan rasmi mereka, jom kita lihat terlebih dahulu antara pemimpin politik yang hadir ke Istana Negara pada minggu lalu bersama kereta rasmi mereka.

Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin (Perdana Menteri) -
Toyota Alphard

*Kredit foto: BERNAMA

Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man (Menteri Alam Sekitar, Timbalan Presiden Pas) -
Toyota Vellfire

*Kredit foto: Awani

Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong (Menteri Pengangkutan, Presiden MCA) - Toyota Vellfire

*Kredit foto: Awani

Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi (Presiden UMNO) - Toyota Vellfire

*Kredit foto: Malaysia Kini

Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim (Presiden PKR) -
Jaguar XJ

*Kredit foto: Awani

Tan Sri AS Vigneswaran (Presiden MIC) -
Mercedes-Benz S450L

*Kredit foto: Sinar Harian

Lim Guan Eng (Setiausaha Agung DAP) - Toyota Vellfire

*Kredit foto: Sinar Harian

Tun Mahathir (Pengerusi Parti Pejuang Tanah Air) -
Proton X70

*Kredit foto: Awani

Kalau anda perhatikan, dalam banyak-banyak kereta mewah pemimpin politik tersebut, hanya Tun Mahathir yang tiba dengan kereta keluaran tempatan iaitu Proton X70. Malah Mahathir bukanlah orang asing dengan PROTON kerana beliau pernah menjadi Pengerusi PROTON pada 2014 dan Penasihat PROTON sejak 2003 sebelum
meletakkan jawatan
pada tahun 2016. Malah PROTON sendiri mengiktiraf Tun Mahathir sebagai pengasas syarikat perkenaan. Jadi tidak pelik melihat beliau tiba dengan X70 memandangkan beliau sering dilihat
memandu kenderaan keluaran PROTON
. Jika beliau bukan orang penting PROTON, adakah beliau juga akan mengabaikan PROTON?

Persoalan seterusnya yang bermain di minda adalah mengapa kerajaan Malaysia tidak menggunakan kereta keluaran tempatan sahaja untuk digunakan sebagai kereta rasmi? Secara logiknya kalau kita fikirkan, menggunakan produk tempatan lebih banyak manfaatnya kepada negara, terutamanya imej pengeluar automotif tempatan.

Selain daripada dapat menjimatkan kos kerana harga kereta tempatan jauh lebih murah, ada juga beranggapan bahawa bahan alat ganti kenderaan tempatan lebih mudah di dapati dengan harga lebih murah. Betul ke mudah didapati? Sebelum ini mungkin ya, namun selepas PROTON menjenamakan semula barisan kenderaan daripada rakan niaga terbarunya Geely seperti X50 dan X70, kebanyakan alat ganti terpaksa diimport daripada China. Oleh kerana dunia sedang dilanda pandemik, terdapat sedikit kelewatan dalam memperolehi alat ganti tersebut. Ingat tak kisah seram dimana pengguna
Proton X70 terpaksa menunggu berbulan-bulan untuk menerima alat ganti dari Proton?

Sistem Pajakan

Tahukah anda bahawa kenderaan yang digunakan oleh kerajaan ini bukanlah dibeli, sebaliknya dipajak? Melalui sistem pajakan, kerajaan akan memajak kenderaan tersebut dari sesuatu syarikat untuk digunakan sebagai kenderaan rasmi untuk tempoh 4 tahun atau bergantung pada tempoh yang ditetapkan.

Melalui sistem pajakan ini, kenderaan yang dipajak kerajaan itu tidak dikenakan cukai. Sistem pajakan ini juga meliputi segala kos servis dan penyelenggaraan serta insurans komprehensif bagi tempoh yang ditetapkan. Selepas tamat tempoh pajakan, kenderaan akan dipulangkan semula kepada syarikat tersebut. Hal ini dapat mengurangkan kos penyelenggaraan kerana kereta yang semakin berusia memerlukan kos baikpulih yang lebih mahal berbanding kereta baharu.

*Kredit foto: Malaysia Kini

Sebelum ini, kerajaan ada menggunakan kereta PROTON sebagai kenderaan rasmi kerajaan. Ingat lagi tak dengan Proton Perdana dan Limosin yang digunakan pada suatu ketika dahulu? Sebenarnya, menurut Lim Guan Eng (Menteri Kewangan ketika itu), kerajaan mungkin akan menukar kereta rasmi kerajaan kerana ketika kontrak pembekalan kenderaan diumumkan, pihak kerajaan tidak mendapat pengesahan daripada PROTON sama ada jumlah Proton Perdana akan mencukupi atau tidak. Ini kerana Proton Perdana tidak lagi dijual di dalam pasaran Malaysia. Oleh itu, Proton terpaksa membina kereta terbabit secara berasingan yang menyebabkan ketidakpastian dari segi bekalan.

Memandangkan sebelum ini agensi kerajaan dibekalkan dengan Proton Perdana dan Limosin bagi urusan rasmi kerajaan, kini ia terpaksa digantikan kerana ada agensi kerajaan dah menggunakan kereta tersebut melebihi tempoh pajakan menyebabkan kos penyelenggaraan kenderaan terbabit meningkat. Kegagalan PROTON untuk menyediakan model baharu sebagai pengganti Perdana telah menjadi sebab kenapa kerajaan terpaksa mencari jenama luar sebagai pengganti. Kalau nak kekalkan guna Perdana, sakit juga kerana Proton dan Mitsubishi tidak lagi menghasilkan alatganti bagi model tersebut.

PROTON pun dah hentikan penghasilan dan penjualan Perdana. Jadi selepas 4 tahun tempoh pajakan tamat, PROTON tidak akan boleh catch up untuk tukar semula kereta tersebut dengan kereta Perdana baharu kerana ianya telah tidak dihasilkan lagi. Tetapi walau bagaimana pun, masih ada sebilangan kecil agensi kerajaan yang menggunakan kereta tempatan seperti Pegawai Jusa Kerajaan yang kini menggunakan Proton X70 bagi menggantikan Perdana. Malangnya, model ini hanyalah model
CBU dan bukanlah CKD.

Memandangkan kenderaan rasmi kerajaan ketika itu (Proton Perdana) sudah mengjangkau lebih tempoh pajakan, memang dah patut ditukar pun. Mengenai Toyota Alphard dan Vellfire yang dipilih sebagai kenderaan rasmi, ia kerana harga yang ditawarkan merupakan harga tanpa cukai di samping tawaran istimewa yang diberikan oleh sesuatu syarikat kepada kerajaan. Dah ada peruntukan besar, kereta pun kenalah besarlah ye tak? Lagipun nak cari alatganti pun senang memandangkan
UMW Toyota
 masih mengeluarkan model terbabit.

Tetapi, sekiranya dana peruntukan itu dikaji semula dengan memberi peluang kepada pengeluar tempatan seperti PROTON dan PERODUA untuk merebut tender kereta rasmi kerajaan, pasti menarik. Lihat sahaja
Perodua Myvi
 generasi ketiga yang terdapat di pasaran sekarang. Bentuk luaran kereta tersebut dihasilkan sepenuhnya oleh jurutera PERODUA dan Daihatsu hanya menjadi penasihat sahaja. Bukannya pengeluar automotif tempatan tak boleh design kereta cantik-cantik ni. Memandangkan Myvi ni kereta marhaen, cuba bayangkan sekiranya PERODUA hasilkan sedan yang lebih ekslusif untuk kegunaan kerajaan.

Walau bagaimanapun, masih terdapat kekurangan sekiranya barisan kereta PROTON atau PERODUA diangkat sepenuhnya sebagai kenderaan rasmi kerajaan. Kalau kenderaan untuk Menteri dan Timbalan Menteri tu boleh lagi, cuma bagaimana pula dengan kereta polis atau kereta 4x4 untuk kegunaan agensi kerajaan seperti Kementerian Sumber Alam Sekitar? Dulu kita ada
Proton Inspira
 untuk kegunaan polis tapi itu dulu lah. Polis dan tentera pun dah guna
Honda Civic 1.8 S
 sekarang. Tapi sekiranya perkara ini dirancang dengan rapi, pasti boleh dicapai.

Bayangkan sekiranya PERODUA atau PROTON menghasilkan kereta edisi khas untuk kegunaan kerajaan. Baru la membara sikit jiwa anak tempatan dalam diri masing-masing bila jumpa kereta serba gelap seperti itu. Lagi satu, gambar-gambar Menteri bersama kereta mereka berkemungkinan boleh tersebar ke serata dunia melalui sosial media ataupun portal berita. Jika gambar-gambar kenderaan tempatan yang serba gelap serta edisi khas yang digunakan oleh ahli politik itu tersebar ke serata dunia, tu dah kira free marketing dah tu. Win-win situation untuk industri automotif tempatan dan kerajaan juga.

Siapa lagi nak bantu dan sokong pengeluar tempatan kalau bukan kerajaan Malaysia sendiri?

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

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Carlist.my.

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CarlistBid.my
.

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 website now.


Enhanced 2015 Mitsubishi ASX Launched: New 2WD GL Variant Introduced From RM104k

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) have officially launched the updated 2015 Mitsubishi ASX range today, which introduces a new entry-level 2WD GL variant to the lineup, priced from RM104,792 (OTR without insurance). This brings the total number of ASX variants to three, adding to the two currently available variants – the 2WD and 4WD, which gets a bump in kit as well, with reduced prices to go along with it.
First up, the ASX’s exterior on both the 4WD and 2WD gets an update in design with daytime running lights incorporated into the fog lamp enclosures. A shark fin antenna is now in place of the previous stick one as well. For the top-spec ASX 4WD variant (seen here in the new Sporty Blue body colour), new-design, two-toned 17-inch alloy wheels are also fitted. Front parking sensors are still available for the 2WD and 4WD variants but the 2WD GL will have to make do without them.
Moving inside, the cabin gets a new touchscreen multimedia unit with USB and Bluetooth connectivity. The unit also features navigation capabilities and a Virtual Acoustic Positioning System (VAPS) for an improved acoustic experience. The 2WD GL gets standard dual DIN audio system instead where the lack of screen also sees the reverse camera dropped from its equipment list.
Elsewhere, the centre console adopts a new design, while the power window switch panels on the door now get a piano black finish.
Standard equipment across all three variants (ASX 4WD, 2WD, and 2WD GL) include leather seats, automatic climate control, a coloured Multi-Info Display, and auto retractable side mirrors. The touchscreen multimedia unit mentioned above is only found on the 2WD and 4WD variants. For the 4WD variant, the equipment list is further expanded to include keyless entry with push-start operation, cruise control, and paddle shifters.
Safety for the ASX 4WD also receives an upgrade to seven airbags (dual front, side, curtains, and driver’s knee airbag). As before, anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brake distribution (EBD) still come as standard across the ASX range, with the 4WD variant adding on
Mitsubishi’s
 All Wheel Control 4WD System, Active Stability Control (ASC), Traction Control, and Hill Start Assist (HSA).
Under the hood, the familiar 2.0-litre MIVEC engine still produces 150PS and 197Nm of torque, paired to the INVECS-III CVT (Continuous Variable Transmission) with Sports Mode.
As we’ve mentioned, the ASX 2WD and 4WD’s additional kit also sees a reduction in price. The ASX 2WD now comes in with a price tag of RM112,571 (RM1,472 less) while the 4WD is from RM125,041 (RM3,138 less). All ASX variants come with a five-year warranty package with body colour offerings that include Titanium Grey, Cool Silver, Solid White, and the already-mentioned new Sporty Blue, which displaces the outgoing Black Mica.
The introduction of the
Mitsubishi ASX
 2WD GL makes it a strong case against the mid-tier Honda HR-V in E variant (RM104,135) and the Ford EcoSport 1.5L Titanium (RM100,800).


All-New Toyota Yaris Launched In Malaysia – From RM 70,888

Fresh from its recent preview at the
2019 Malaysia Autoshow
, UMW Toyota Motor has launched the Toyota Yaris with prices starting from RM70,888 for the 1.5J, RM76,888 for the 1.5E, and RM83,888 for the 1.5G.

Compared to the Honda Jazz, the Yaris expresses a much more youthful image. It also boasts better equipment levels – not something that you will normally say about a Toyota. But of course, the Jazz also comes with a hybrid variant, and has a more practical (Ultra Seats) interior.

All variants of the Yaris are adequately equipped with the necessary active and passive safety features. Seven airbags, electronic stability and traction control, and hill start assist are standard. As such, it scores a 5-Star ASEAN NCAP rating for both adult and child occupant safety.

Compared to the Thailand market 1.2-litre (3NR-FE) Yaris, our local specifications Yaris comes with a larger 1.5-litre 2NR-FE naturally aspirated petrol engine (107 PS/140 Nm) that’s shared with the Vios. However, the Malaysian market Yaris loses out on LED headlamps and synthetic leather upholstery, which the smaller engine capacity Thai Yaris has.

Power is sent to the front wheels through a CVT-type automatic transmission.

The highlights of each variant are as follows:

Toyota Yaris 1.5J (RM70,888)

15-inch alloy wheels with 185/60 R15 tyres

Halogen reflector headlights

Bulb-type tail lights

LED daytime running lights

Keyless entry and push start button

Power-adjustable side mirrors

Shark fin antenna

Rear fog lamps

Fabric upholstery

4 speaker sound system

60:40 split folding rear seats

Fabric centre console box

Illuminated scuff plates

Blue front footwell illumination

7 airbags

ABS with EBD and Brake Assist

Vehicle Stability Control with Traction Control

Hill-Start Assist Control

Speed-sensing door locks

Toyota Yaris 1.5E (RM76,888)

16-inch alloy wheels with 195/50 R16 tyres

Halogen projector headlights

LED tail lights

Acoustic windshield

Front fog lights

Auto folding and power-adjustable side mirrors with turn signals

Multi-info display

Drive mode switch

Steering audio control

6.8-inch touchscreen head unit

Panoramic View Monitor (PVM)

Toyota Premium Security & Solar Tint Film

Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)

Front Digital Video Recorder (DVR)

Toyota Yaris 1.5G (RM83,888)

Unique front grille with colour plating

Optitron meter cluster

4.2-inch colour MID

Leather steering wheel with MID controls

Leather shift knob

6 speakers

Auto air-conditioning

Rear disc brakes

Similar to the all-new Vios, the all-new Yaris can also be had with an optional aerokit that consists of skirtings around the car. A rear spoiler is included as part of the aerokit, but only available on the 1.5E and 1.5G. There's also an optional rear-mounted digital video recorder (RM350).

The Toyota Yaris comes with a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty.

Find the best deals for the all-new Toyota Yaris
here
.


Naza Kia Reveals Pricing of Kia Cerato Koup Turbo-GDI

We might have gotten an
early taste of Kia’s handsome Cerato Koup Turbo-GDI earlier this year
, but the answer to the most important unanswered question has only recently been revealed. That question of course is its price, which is available at a price of RM135,888. Well below initial estimations.
According to Naza Kia Malaysia that makes the Cerato Koup the most affordable 200hp car in its segment. With a 1.6-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged engine with direct injection, the Cerato Koup has 204hp and 265Nm of torque to play with. Paired to a six-speed automatic the two-door Cerato is able to sprint from 0 to 100km/h in 7.4 seconds, a figure which Naza Kia says, earns it the title of ‘fastest car in its class’.
Tarting up the Cerato Koup’s looks are the fitment of black high-gloss door mirrors and door handles, 18-inch alloy wheels, dual muffler tail trim, carbon-fibre look bumper garnish, and LED taillights. Inside the cabin is fitted with a 4.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with reverse camera, 6-speaker audio system, sunroof, smart welcome lighting, and dual-zone climate control with a cluster ionizer.
Like the four-door Cerato sedans, the Cerato Koup’s power steering system comes with the flex steer feature which allows drivers to switch between three power steering modes, ‘Comfort’, ‘Normal’, and ‘Sport’.
In terms of safety the Cerato Koup is equipped with a full complement of safety systems with Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ABS with EBD and brake assist, hill-start assist, six airbags, and ISOFIX child seat anchor points.


Skull-Painted Isuzu D-Max By Horny Mike Is The Badass Pick-Up Truck You Want

At the recent History Convention 2017 held at MAEPS Serdang in August, Horny Mike Henry demonstrated his airbrushing skills painting the image of a skull on the bonnet of a I
suzu D-Max Z-Prestige
.
The airbrush demo was performed live in front of a crowd and the intricate artwork was completed in less than two hours.
Skull designs are a favourite of Horny Mike and his preferred choice for airbrush projects. The design he painted on the D-Max has a lighted hollow eye socket with skull lines mimicking a tropical storm.
Its gaping mouth is lined with the teeth of a dragon and the entire skull is engulfed by lightning. The artwork was framed with a ‘wind-fire’ style edge.
The current generation Isuzu D-Max was launched in 2013, but the Prestige model was added to the line-up only in 2016 as an offering to penetrate the lifestyle segment, its appearance specially-designed for a rugged and adventurous outlook.
As the D-Max’s top-of-the-range offering, the Z-Prestige variant has extensive exterior and interior enhancements including a redesigned front and rear end, leather seats with contrast stitching, upgraded infotainment, keyless entry, 18-inch alloy wheels, sports lid, and projector headlamps with LED daytime running lights.
Besides the Velvet Red Mica of the skull-painted unit seen here, the D-Max Z-Prestige is also available in Stallion Black and Silky White Pearl colours.


Proton Lancar smart #1 Tahun 2023 – SUV Elektrik, Jarak Perjalanan Lebih 500 km

Selepas pelancaran Saga baru-baru ini, Timbalan CEO Proton, Roslan Abdullah berkata model
smart #1
 kini dalam landasan yang betul untuk dilancarkan pada tahun 2023.

Awal tahun ini,
Proton Edar
 telah mengejutkan banyak pihak apabila bakal muncul sebagai pengedar sah kereta elektrik smart di Malaysia dan Thailand.

Model ini tidak lagi dijual melalui Mercedes-Benz seperti dulu. Sebaliknya, ia akan dijual oleh Proton setelah
memorandum perjanjian (MoU)
 yang telah ditandatangani oleh Proton bersama smart Automobile Company.

smart #1 bakal tiba pada tahun 2023

Menurut Roslan, smart #1 bakal dilancarkan pada 2023 untuk mengambil kesempatan daripada pengecualian cukai import, duti eksais dan pengecualian cukai jalan untuk EV yang diimport, yang akan tamat pada akhir 2023.

Tambahnya, smart #1 adalah salah satu daripada tiga kereta serba baharu yang akan diperkenalkan dalam tempoh dua tahun akan datang seperti yang dikatakan oleh CEO Proton, Li Chunrong.

"Buat masa ini, terdapat beberapa proses yang telah kami selesaikan, kami sangat agresif," katanya merujuk kepada butiran yang sedang disempurnakan.

Menurut Proton, ketika ini mereka sedang bertungkus lumus memuktamadkan kontrak dengan cepat kerana sering ditanya bukan sahaja dari pihak media, malah orang ramai turut bertanya bila kereta elektrik ini bakal dilancarkan di pasaran Malaysia memandangkan ia telah
dilancarkan di China.

Tambah Roslan, perjanjian muktamad dijadualkan ditandatangani pada bulan Disember tahun ini di mana ia merupakan satu formaliti sebelum jenama pintar itu dilancarkan semula di Malaysia.

Bagi Roslan, harga smart #1 di China adalah sangat berpatutan dengan harga bermula 190,000 yuan (RM126k) walaupun beliau menjangkakan model pasaran Malaysia mempunyai spesifikasi dan harga yang berbeza.

Menurut Roslan, tiada perancangan untuk memasang kereta itu di negara ini (CKD) ekoran jumlahnya yang terlalu kecil untuk membuat untung dalam skala ekonomi.

Akibatnya, ia mendesak kerajaan melanjutkan pengecualian cukai untuk memberi peluang yang lebih besar untuk menjual kenderaan CBU.

smart #1 dengan harga di bawah RM150k?

Didedahkan kepada dunia bulan lepas, smart #1 ialah produk pertama usaha sama antara Mercedes-Benz dan Geely. Oleh kerana Geely juga memegang pegangan dalam Proton, perjanjian pengedaran ini telah dicapai.

Model ini menggunakan platform
Sustainable Electric Architecture (SEA)
 Geely dan lebih pendek sedikit daripada Honda HR-V, walaupun ia lebih lebar dan tinggi.

Di China, smart #1 ditawarkan dengan motor elektrik yang menghasilkan 272 PS dan tork 368 Nm, bersama-sama dengan bateri 66 kWj yang memberikan jarak 535 km pada model Pro+ dan 560 km pada model Premium.

Pengecasan pula mengambil masa tujuh setengah jam jika menggunakan pengecas AC 7.2 kW atau setengah jam dengan menggunakan pengecas 150 kW kuasa DC.

Untuk harga pula, model ini dijual di China pada harga 190,000 yuan (RM125k) sehingga 230,000 yuan (RM210k) dan bakal hadir dengan teknologi bantuan pemanduan termasuk pemanduan autonomi Level 2.

Jika model smart #1 ini dilancarkan di Malaysia pada harga dibawah RM150k, ia sememangnya penawaran yang menarik kerana kereta ini mampu bergerak sehingga melebihi 500 km jika dicas penuh. Untuk perbandingan, Mini Cooper SE yang dijual pada harga RM178k hanya menawarkan jarak perjalanan sehingga 270 km sahaja.


Bangkok 2018: Toyota Camry Decked With TRD Sportivo Aerokit

The segment-revitalizing Toyota Camry (XV70-generation) in Thailand has been given a sportier look with the availability of TRD Sportivo aerokit.
The TRD Sportivo aerokit consists of the usual front bumper spoiler, side skirts, rear bumper spoiler and a rather aggressive trunk lid spoiler. The bodykit is available as an option for all variants, with the price starting from THB 56,300 (~RM 7,100) excluding painting and installation charges.
To recap, the all-new
Toyota Camry in Thailand
 is offered with three engine choices (2.0-litre, 2.5-litre, and Hybrid) with prices range between THB 1.445 million to THB 1.799 million.
In Malaysia
, UMW Toyota Motor has just launched the fully-imported all-new Camry in just a single variant, a 184 PS 2.5-litre engine with Toyota Safety Sense as standard, priced from RM 189,900.


Carsome Launches Its Certified Lab, A First Of Its Kind Used Car Refurbishing Centre

Carsome
 has just launched the Carsome Certified Lab, a car refurbishment centre that promises to reinvent how consumers look and purchase used cars.

Slated to be one of the largest car refurbishment facilities in the region, the 185,000 square feet fully-functional lab is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment that can transform pre-owned cars almost as good as new.

According to Carsome Certified CEO, Mei Han, the centre can refurbish up to 2,000 cars per month at optimum operational capacity, turning them into
Carsome certified cars
, which gives buyers peace of mind when purchasing used cars.

"Carsome Certified exists to give consumers the options of pre-owned cars that are more superior. All our cars go through world-class refurbishment at Carsome Certified Lab, so that our customers can choose their dream car from our largest selection of best-in-class, quality-assured cars. This is our continuous effort in eliminating consumer and industry pain points," said Mei.

The first of its kind facility aims to bring buyers a trusted used car ecosystem, where everything is transparent. Carsome aims to do this by selling cars with the Carsome promise of no accidents, no hidden fees and a holistic approach to stringent quality control with global industry standards.

Carsome has also set up the Carsome Academy, a centre where it can help upskill its technicians to be proficient at refurbishing more than 30 different car brands.

Cars that will be sold under Carsome Certified will first go through a 175 point check to help assess the refurbishment required. They will then go through mechanical and general repair where essential functions such as powertrain and safety systems are tested and fixed to be in their most optimal condition.

Next is lubricant, brakes and air conditioning services, where faulty or in need of service items such as brake pads or air filters will be changed.

After the mechanical bits are up to scratch, the car will go through the body and paint department to fix any blemishes to make the car aesthetically top notch. Carsome informed us that they only use OEM manufactured paint and does a three-step paint correction afterwards to perfectly blend in the body's paintwork.

One of the final steps of the process is to go through Carsome's quality check where they ensure that the cars are safe, comfortable and aesthetically pleasing.

Carsome plans to open additional Carsome Certified Labs in the next 12 months across Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand to continue offering more Carsome Certified pre-owned cars for consumers to choose from.

Buyers can now browse for cars online with a 360-degree view, purchase one with minimal paperwork and have their cars home-delivered for maximum convenience.


ETCM Adds Tomei Aerokit To 2022 Nissan Almera Turbo

Interested buyers looking into the
4th-generation Nissan Almera Turbo
 now have the option of a Tomei accessory kit that’s worth RM8,000. Even better, it’s available at no cost (FREE) for a limited time.

Developed and designed by the well-known Japanese tuning house in collaboration with local Nissan distributors Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM), the Tomei Aero Package is available for all three variants of the Almera Turbo:

1.0T VL - RM83,888

1.0T VLP - RM89,888

1.0T VLT - RM95,888

Prices quoted are on-the-road and inclusive of SST.

FREE Tomei Aero Package for Nissan Almera Turbo

It comprises a 5-piece
exterior package
 that which are a front bumper spoiler, a two-part rear bumper spoiler, and a pair of side skirts, all finished in a two-tone colour scheme to stand out against the car’s body colour, all of which are factory-fitted.

For the Almera Turbo VLT, the Tomei Aero Package will also come with new sports pedals and foot rest. Other items include door handle protectors, a new kick plate for the door sills, door visors, and the pre-installation of ICE Cool Tinting Film.

Meanwhile, for the Almera Turbo VL and Almera Turbo VLP, the 5-piece aerokit will also be joined by a boot lid spoiler as well as the ICE Cool Tint and sport pedals with footrest, but without the door handle protectors, door visor, and kick plate.

For an even racier look, ETCM is also offering a Tomei GT Wing on the boot lid priced at RM1,400 which includes installation and can even be included in the total cost of the car under the financing package. Also, for a limited time, they’re offering the GT Wing to early bird buyers for a 50% discount.

As with the rest of the Almera Turbo, the Tomei Aero Package is covered against manufacturing defects under ETCM’s standard 3-year/100,000km (whichever comes first) warranty.


Spied: 2017 Peugeot 3008 Seen In Malaysia, Could Debut This Year

The all-new 2017 Peugeot 3008 has been caught in Malaysia, indicating that Nasim is going to introduce this model within the coming months.
Thanks to our friends over at Funtasticko, photos of two lightly-disguised Peugeot 3008 emerged. Seeing that the two test mules here are left-hand drive units, they will not represent the actual model that will be offered on sale here.
Underpinning the Peugeot 3008 is the company's EMP2 platform, similar to the one found on the new Peugeot 308. Similar to the Peugeot 308, the new SUV from Peugeot could feature the company's 1.6-litre PureTech turbocharged engine with 163 horses. Drive is sent to the front wheels via a six-speed EAT6 automatic transmission.
Back in December 2016, Nasim Group CEO Dato Samson Anand George said that the company will be introducing several new models this year. So far, the company has unveiled the updated Peugeot 208, 208 GTI and 2008. On top of the new Peugeot 3008, the company is also looking to introduce the Peugeot Traveller and Peugeot 5008.
Photo credit: Funtasticko


Volkswagen wants to help you celebrate CNY - Save up to RM4K, free inspection and much more!

The Chinese New Year is just around the corner, and Volkswagen wants to help you celebrate by introducing festive specials in preparation for the Year of the Rabbit.

From now till the 28th of February 2023, you can enjoy Chinese New Year savings of up to RM4,000 on selected models, including the Golf GTI, the Tiguan Allspace family (Life, Elegance and R-Line), and Arteon R-line 4MOTION.

Additionally, all Volkswagen dealerships nationwide this weekend will be holding a Chinese New Year showroom celebration, with deals and test drives for all models, in particular the Tiguan Allspace family.

For those who don't intend to buy new cars, VW also has special promotions for its current customers, where there are complimentary vehicle checks at authorised service centres to prepare for the heavy travel period during the upcoming festivities.

Owners are invited to schedule their appointments through the Volkswagen Cares app.

Volkswagen is also offering Genuine Services aftersales campaign from the 1st of January to the 31st of March for Volkswagen customers to take advantage of fully.

Throughout the campaign period, customers who spend a minimum of RM800 at any Volkswagen service centre will receive an RM30 official merchandise voucher. You can use these campaign vouchers to be in the running chance to win more merchandise, including the highly sought-after Volkswagen sun chairs.

They are not finished there either, as Volkswagen Care Plus (VCP) subscribers will receive a complimentary disinfectant kit with every service and utilisation of the VCP service discount vouchers provided in the Volkswagen Cares app.


Mercedes-Benz EQS To Be The First EV Built And Sold In Thailand - Coming This Year

Mercedes-Benz Thailand has confirmed that it will be launching Merc’s flagship Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) later this year. The EQS will go on sale as a locally-assembled version, to capitalise on the Thai’s government
lucrative incentives for electric and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) vehicles
.

The EQS will be the first fully electric Mercedes to go on sale in Thailand, and the first market outside of Germany to locally assemble the vehicle.

Mercedes-Benz was amongst the
first automakers to secure these incentives
 for their PHEV models and lithium-ion battery production, which now comes full circle with the introduction of the EQS.

The EQS’ introduction highlights two crucial factors – firstly Mercedes’ commitment to their global EV strategy and belief in these growth sectors within the Thai market, and secondly reaffirms the success of Thailand’s well-executed incentive systems in luring foreign automakers to invest in the EV market over there.

The EQS will be built at the Thonburi Automotive Assembly Plant (TAAP) in Samut Prakan. Mercedes-Benz, together with TAAP and Thonburi Energy Storage Systems (TESM) has been producing lithium-ion batteries (for PHEVs) since 2019, which at the time became Mercedes’ third facility of the carmaker’s global battery production network to go into operation.

The expansion – which included a 50,000 sq-meter plant located near the vehicle production plant – drew an investment of USD 111 million from Mercedes-Benz AG.

First unveiled at the
2019 Frankfurt Motor Show
 – the EQS is the flagship model of the company’s EV brand, EQ. The EQS is offered both as rear-wheel drive EQS 450+ which is powered by a single electric motor on the rear axle producing a total of 333PS and 568Nm of torque, or the AWD EQS 580 4Matic which adds a motor on the front axle for a total power output of 532PS and 855Nm of torque.

The EQS is built on the Mercedes-Benz’s
purpose-built (large vehicle) Electric Vehicle Architecture (EVA) platform
. The EQS is the second model to use the EVA platform (
after the EQC SUV
) and will boast a 700km driving range (on the WLTP cycle).

The EQS is powered by a monstrous 107.8 kWh (usable capacity) battery pack situated low in the vehicle’s body that is claimed to deliver a driving range of up to 770 km on the WLTP cycle, giving this uber-luxury sedan the necessary range to match its style.


Toll-Free Access To LDP And MEX Highways Will Be Given On Merdeka Day

Malaysia celebrates it’s 58
th
 Merdeka celebration in a couple of weeks, August 31
st
, and to mark the day, motorists will get to enjoy toll-free access to the Damansara-Puchong Highway (LDP) and Maju Expressway (MEX).
As
The Sun Daily
 reports, Works Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said the decision was made in the Merdeka spirit to absorb the toll fee collection on that day, by highway operators Lingakan Trans Kota Sdn Bhd (Litrak) and Maju Expressway Sdn Bhd.
"Motorists can drive through the toll plazas on these two highways without having to pay beginning from 12 midnight on Aug 31," said Fadillah at the Kesas, Litrak and Sprint Aidilfitri open house celebration.
Fadillah also mentioned that it is possible that other highway concessionaires may decide to also offer toll-free access as well, but we would have to wait and see if any such announcements are made.
Sazally Saidi, deputy president of the Association of Highway Concessionaires (PSKLM) and
 the CEO of Litrak
 said several operators are contemplating the move on offering toll-free access on Merdeka day.
"There have been discussions among the highway operators but let me just say right now, so far only two operators are offering. It is up to respective concessionaires to decide," said Sazally.
A discount of 20 sen will also be given at toll plazas along the Sprint Expressway on National Day, which include those at Damansara Link, Kerinchi Link and Penchala Link.


Pre-owned luxury cars under RM150k - what are your options?

The Malaysian automotive market has a wide variety of luxury cars from virtually all automakers, but a pre-owned model can sometimes make more sense to purchase, especially for those who want to watch their spending.

Because luxury cars tend to get their biggest hit in depreciation in the first few years, your best chance of owning one if you're watching your wallet is through the pre-owned market. Just because they are now worth a lot less than when they were brand new doesn't mean there is something wrong with them.

Most of the time, new luxury car owners have the sheer financial might to get the latest models from auto manufacturers, so when they decide they want the latest and freshest cars, they will usually sell or trade in their vehicles just to make space for the new one.

Besides, luxury cars are usually conceptualised, tested, and manufactured to higher than average standards, which means they are still good for many years to come.

One of the best places to hunt for pre-owned luxury cars is CARSOME.
They have a wide variety of pre-owned luxury cars under RM150,000 across all body types
.

If you're interested in pre-owned luxury cars but need help deciding what to go for, here are five excellent pre-owned luxury cars under RM150,000 that are currently available on CARSOME.

1.
2nd-Gen BMW 118i M Sport 1.5

Suppose you'd like a do-it-all vehicle, capable of operating as a weekday car but is also fun for those spirited drives on the weekends. In that case, you might want to consider the second-generation BMW 1 Series LCI (F20), the last generation rear-wheel-drive 1 Series.

While it is not the most spacious of hatchbacks or the most potent car in BMW's line up of vehicles, it makes up for it in the amount of sheer driving pleasure because of its rear-wheel-drive characteristics, light weight, and handling balance.

Unlike the newest third-generation BMW 1 Series or its competitors, which are all front-wheel drive, there's a sense of 'hooning' to the car thanks to its 50:50 weight distribution.

Some might say that the 1 Series sacrifices space for pure mechanical lust, but then again, if driving excitement is your poison and you're single and carefree – happy with your car, you shall be if you drive a second generation 1 Series.

2.
2nd-Gen MINI Cooper Clubman 1.5

Ironically, though bigger, MINI's identifiable styling works well in the second-generation Clubman as it is stretched over the Clubman's enlarged dimensions. Compared to the previous generation's two-and-a-half-door layout, the F54 Clubman sports four proper conventional doors, which makes it more usable than the older vehicle.

Although some things were changed, the Clubman retains the nameplate's two-piece barn-door style tailgate, where according to MINI, the two-piece tailgate was kept as it was an integral part of the Clubman's identity. Whatever it is, we are happy that MINI has kept the barn-style doors, as it's just so unique and cool.

Nevertheless, the lively steering which MINI is known for is still there, the throttle is responsive as ever, and the larger dimensions have given it a more settled ride. Consider it a grown-up Clubman, one that can be appreciated across all demographics.

3.
4th-Gen Mercedes-Benz C200 Avantgarde 2.0

It's been largely said that the W205 Mercedes-Benz C-Class was the car that brought the groove back to the C-Class range, featuring better styling, lighter structure and a new breed of powerful and efficient turbocharged engines.

Since the A-Class became the new entry-level Mercedes, the Stuttgart-based firm decided to up the ante with the 4th-Gen C-Class, which after its launch, got many experts calling it the mini S-Class.

Yes, the W205 C-Class is not the latest C-Class available, but it still looks modern and current, which is a testament to its design.

The brunt of the variants was powered by a singular turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol power plant in various states of tune, but what proved one of the most popular variants was the simplest of the 2.0-litre models: the C200 Avantgarde. It packs a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine pushing 184 hp and 300 Nm of torque – not mind-blowing figures, but certainly no slouch either.

4.
Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace Highline 1.4

It wasn't so long ago that the only Tiguan available in the market was the five-seater short-wheelbase version, but with the growing appetite for seven-seater cars in Malaysia, Volkswagen Malaysia decided to decommission the five-seater for a long-wheelbase Tiguan, called the Allspace.

While the additional two seats at the very rear of the car might not be suitable for adults on long journeys, they can comfortably accommodate a couple of children for all occasions. The seats also come in handy when you need to ferry family and friends around town or on shorter trips.

If you do not need extra seats, the third row of seats can be folded flat for extra boot space, offering up to 700 liters and a whopping 1,775 liters of boot space with the second row collapsed as well.

The Tiguan Allspace Highline comes with the more familiar 1.4 TSI engine that pushes 150 PS and 250 Nm of torque to the front wheels through a six-speed wet-clutch DSG dual-clutch transmission. That being said, even the Highline version, which is basically the entry-level Allspace comes very generously equipped with excellent convenience features such as keyless entry, reverse camera, leather interior, full LED headlights and many more.

5.
Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC 2.0

It's rare for a previous generation car to be better looking than the one that replaced it, but the first generation GLA in our opinion, is a much better looking crossover than the ones that are sold now.

The GLA 250 has the same powertrain as the same generation A 250, but thankfully, the suspension isn't. This means that despite the go-faster aspirations of the car, the trade-off isn't a hard and uncomfortable, track-minded ride quality.

The GLA 250 still benefits from a sporty arrangement, but one that doesn't nearly hammer your spine like the AMG-tuned one does in the A 250.

Being a crossover, Mercedes has included its Off-Road Package as standard equipment in the GLA 250. What you get from the package includes a Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR) feature, which moderates how quickly you descend a hill, slope, etc.

At a speed determined by yourself and a push of a button, the car will keep crawling downwards, managing transmission shifts, acceleration, braking, ESP and ABS. It is a great party trick to show your friends and might come in handy one day if you're going down a slippery slope.

_______

So there you have it, five examples of very desirable luxury cars in tip top conditions minus the tip top price tag, all of which can be available with a little digging at CARSOME.

From MINI to BMW to Mercedes-Benz to Volkswagen.
With a budget of RM150,000 and under
, you could be the owner of something very posh, German, and
CARSOME Certified
.

CARSOME Certified is the The Trusted Way to Buy a Car, providing customer reassurance like no other with a comprehensive 175-point inspection and refurbishment program conducted by qualified and skilled technicians, setting a new standard in the pre-owned vehicle experience. Best of all, each CARSOME Certified car comes with a 1 year warranty and 5-day money-back guarantee.


The Iconic Blue Durian is Back! Volkswagen Nationwide Raya Open House This Saturday

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) will be holding a Raya Open house at all Volkswagen dealerships this Saturday, 30th June.
Customers can enjoy plenty of durians on this one day. Other Raya delicacies will also be served for those who are less fond of the 'king of fruits'.
As the event falls on the final day of Volkswagen's Raya Promotion, this festive occasion is the perfect time to take advantage of rebates of up to RM15,000, low-interest rates from as low as 0.88% (per annum), and a free petrol card worth RM1,188.
The
Tiguan WILD
 includes an accessories package worth RM 4,810.
Combined with the current tax holiday of 0% GST, visitors are ensured the best of what Volkswagen has to offer. Additionally, there is also a 20  percent  discount offered on all official Volkswagen merchandise sold at the dealerships during the Open House.
Find out more from our reviews on the almost all the Volkswagen models below:
Volkswagen Polo 1.6- Back to basics
Volkswagen Vento 1.2 TSI- More for less
Volkswagen Passat 1.8 TSI- An unassuming sleeper
Volkswagen Tiguan 1.4 TSI- Traditional in a good way
All models in the Volkswagen range now comes with a 3-year (or 45,000 km, whichever comes first) free maintenance programme, 5-year manufacturer's warranty, and 5-year roadside assistance.
*Note: Blue durian is only for display purposes, not meant for consumption


2023 BMW M340i xDrive & 330Li M Sport land in Malaysia - From RM325,800

After having launched three new
2023 BMW 3 Series
 models back in January, BMW Malaysia has updated the list with the new 2023 BMW M340i xDrive and 330Li M Sport.

Each model caters to opposite characteristics and requirements without sacrificing any of the luxurious aspects renowned by the BMW brand. The former offers power and performance while the latter exudes luxury, comfort, and space.

Just like the previously launched BMW 3 Series models, both the M340i xDrive and 330Li M Sport now come with the BMW Curved Display for an enhanced driving experience not just for the driver, but its occupants as well.

The M340i xDrive stands out with a redesigned front end thanks to its distinctive hexagonal kidney grilles flanked with Adaptive LED headlights with High-Beam Assistant. A set of 19-inch M Light Alloy wheels in the Double-Spoke Style 791 M Bicolour ties everything together.

Other exterior highlights include M Sport Brakes (Blue High-Gloss), M Rear Spoiler, free-form design exhaust tips (also available on the 330Li M Sport), M Aerodynamics Package, and M High-GLoss Shadowline as part of the standard package for the M340i xDrive.

If you prefer something that's even sportier, there's also the BMW M340i xDrive M Sport Pro variant which features:

19-inch M Light Alloy Wheels in Double-Spoke Style 792 M Bicolour Jet Black

M lights Shadowline

M Sport brake callipers in High-Gloss Red

M High-gloss Shadow Line with extended contents

High Gloss Black kidney grille frame

Black Sapphire M Rear Spoiler

The 2023 BMW 330Li M Sport, on the other hand, also offers a refreshed exterior that features slimmer LED headlights with 'expressive DRL graphics' as well as the High-Beam Assistant similar to M340i xDrive.

Being an Li model, the 330Li is 110mm longer (4,823mm) compared to the recently-introduced BMW 330i M Sport. Its 2,961mm wheelbase features a set of 18-inch M Alloy Wheels in Double-Spoke Style in 848 M Bicolour.

M Aerodynamics Package and M High-Gloss Shadowline with extended contents are also available as standard on the new 330Li M Sport.

As mentioned earlier, the two new BMW 3 Series models feature the BMW Curved Display - a combination of a 12.3-inch Information Display and a 14.9-inch control display touchscreen.

The M340i xDrive, in particular, comes with a set of sport seats, hand-stitched M Leather Steering Wheel in supple Walknappa leather, M Headliner Anthracite and Aluminium Rhombicle Anthracite M Interior Trim, to name a few.

Other interior highlights include:

Storage Compartment Package

Auto AC & ambient lighting

Electric glass roof

Harmon Kardon Surround Sound System

M colour-lined M seat belts (M Sport Pro)

For the 2023 BMW 330Li M Sport, the driver's seat also comes with electric adjustment and memory function and other luxury-focus addition such as the Interior Trim Finishers Combination Back High-Gloss/Aluminium, Galvanic embellishers for controls, Instrument Panel in Sensatec and a panorama glass roof as standard.

Other interior features of the new 330Li M Sport are:

Storage Compartment Package

Three-zone auto AC & ambient lighting

HiFi loudspeaker system + more

If you're particularly interested in firepower, you'll be glad to know that the M340i M xDrive comes packing with the 3.0-litre straight-six cylinder petrol engine that produces 387hp and 500Nm of torque and all-wheel-drive. This translates to a 0-100km/h time of 4.4 seconds and a 250km/h limited top speed.

The BMW 330Li M Sport is a more subtle beast with its inline-four unit with rear-wheel-drive that produces 258hp and 400Nm of torque which allows it to hit 0-100km/h in just 6.2 seconds and also a limited top speed of 250km/h. Both the M340i and 330Li come with an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission.

BMW Malaysia has priced these three new BMW 3 Series models at:

BMW 330Li M Sport - RM325,800

BMW M340i xDrive - RM391,800

BMW M340i xDrive M Sport Pro - RM396,800


Nightmare LRT Crash Leaves 213 Injured, MOT To Investigate

At 8.45pm last night, passengers on the
Kelana Jaya Line LRT
 (Light Transit Rail) were flung from their seats near the KLCC station when their train impacted another, leaving 47 seriously injured with 166 suffering from light to mild injuries.

While the cause has not yet been confirmed, the incident involving train 40 and 81 occurred when one carrying 213 passengers travelling at 40km/h collided with an empty train with just a driver travelling at 20km/h.

The scene that followed was one of chaos and panic with many onboard left bleeding, marking the worst accident recorded since the LRT first began operations in December 1996.

Emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly after, helping to safely evacuate the passengers back onto the platform while those who required further treatment were rushed to Kuala Lumpur General Hospital.

In response, the Ministry of Transport will be setting up a special task force to thoroughly investigate the cause of the accident, said minister Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong at a media conference at the scene last night. He expects completed report to be presented to the ministry in two weeks.

He added that assistance would be provided to the passengers involved, emphasising that the priority now is to ensure the prompt treatment of their injuries. This sentiment was echoed by Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, who said via a Facebook post:

"I take this accident seriously and have instructed the Transport Ministry and Prasarana Malaysia Berhad to conduct a full investigation to identify the cause of the accident, and firm action should be taken immediately."

Aside from MOT staff, the task force would be comprised of experts from various agencies including the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) and LRT operator Prasarana, who also said that
shuttle buses
 would be deployed while the affected stretch of the Kelana Jaya-Gombak line remains closed.

Update 1:
 Prasarana Malaysia confirmed this morning that the Kelana Jaya line is operating from 6am using a single track with a train frequency of 10 minutes during peak hours and 30 minutes during off-peak hours. Free double decker shuttle buses are provided to ferry passengers to any station between Pasar Seni and Ampang Park with a frequency of 15 to 20 minutes during peak hours.

Update 2:
 The LRT service is expected to be fully restored within 3 days (tentatively by 28th May) following clean-up, repair work, and sanitisation.

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Tesla Is Opening Shop In India In 2021

Tesla will set up shop in India in 2021.

The move shows premium EV automaker’s optimism for the Indian automotive market, which is 2019, displaced Germany to become the fourth-largest auto market, after China, the US, and Japan. India is largely expected to displace Japan in 2021.

A rising young and rising middle class contributes to approximately 3.5 million units in passenger and commercial vehicle sales in 2020. Separately the country’s push for lower emissions and reduce its dependence on fossil fuels could see a boom for electric vehicles in the near future.

Tesla reportedly is also looking into local assembly and production depending on the response for its products in India. If so, would be the fourth country Tesla moves into after the US, China, and Germany.

The first model to go on sale will be the entry-level
Model 3 sedan
 which according to reporting by the Economic Times will be priced at around IDR5.5 million (RM303k). On his Twitter feed,
Tesla CEO Elon Musk
 confirmed that a move to India is happening in 2021, but not as soon as January.

TATA Nexon EV and MG ZS EV are some EV models already sold in India.

Besides the healthy market space and the growing wealth of Indians, India has also instituted policy changes to attract manufacturers to get them to sell EVs in India; under its GST tax regime, GST on electric vehicles has been lowered to 5 percent from the regular 12 percent imposed on other vehicles.

At least three other foreign carmakers already sell EVs in India, including Mercedes-Benz with its EQC SUV, MG with the
ZS EV
, and Hyundai with the Kona Electric.

Indian manufacturers are also present in the local market with the Tata Nexon EV, Tata Tigor EV, and the Mahindra E Verito contributing to a 20 percent growth in EV sales in 2019-2020. A total of 156,000 units of EVs driven by two-wheelers, including e-rickshaws were sold in the corresponding years according to a report by the Society of Manufacturers of Electric Vehicles (SMEV).