2017 All-New Mazda CX-5 Debuts in Los Angeles

It's always exciting when Mazda launches a new model, but this new CX-5 is especially exciting as it means that an entire product generation has passed since Mazda introduced their SKYACTIV technology lineup. The first generation CX-5 was the poster child for the tech, featuring everything from a SKYACTIV powertrain to a SKYACTIV chassis, and it became a hit. It was the first of its kind in Mazda's lineup, and it became important in lighting the path for other Mazda hits to come. Cars like the current generation Mazda 2 owe part of their success to the CX-5.
But on to the new car. It maintains the Kodo design that also came with the first generation model, but it's become more
digital
 in its evolution. Smooth lines have become sharper edges, and the front end has taken on a far more aggressive look. The exterior dimensions are largely the same as the first gen model, but within those parameters they have moulded and sculpted the body to look a little more serious. It has an almost Mazda 6 like flow and form to the bodywork, with the bulges of the previous generation honed down and sharpened out.
Underneath the bodywork, not much has changed. It's a modified version of the first generation platform, no doubt to further refine it and take away inherent flaws (like some pretty scary lift-off oversteer on the limit). In any case, this should be seen as something good: the CX-5 proved crossovers could possess exemplary dynamic qualities without compromising their comfort. It's a shame the CX-3 isn't quite as fantastic in that department.
On the inside is where perhaps the largest changes can be seen. There new dashboard layout follows that of the CX-9, albeit with a more serious approach and less opulence involved. This full model change has allowed them to get rid of the old chunky dashboard they had to stick with when they transitioned to the first-gen facelift, and it maintains the CX-5's position as the most premium feeling car in class.
Powertrains don't see much of a difference with this generation, sadly. The Americans get the petrol 2.5-litre model as their sole variant, while the rest of the world (us included most likely) will receive the petrol 2.0-litre and 2.2-litre turbodiesel variants as well. We're not going to see a 2.0-litre petrol turbo model any time soon, but if the current generation diesel model is anything to go by then it should be the variant to aim for when the next-gen CX-5 comes to our shores.


MIROS: Only 7 to 9 Percent of Malaysians Use Rear Seat Belts

Although the use of rear seat belts has been mandatory since 1-January 2009, less than one in ten Malaysians buckle up in the rear, said Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai.
Speaking to The Star, Liow said that a study by the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (Miros) showed that only 7 to 9 percent of people belt up in the back seat.
“Our road fatality rate is very high, and we have introduced many measures, including the back seat belt requirement.
“Unfortunately, adherence to the law is still very low,” Liow told The Star yesterday.
Separately, we at Carlist.my strongly encourage drivers to ensure that all your passengers, front and rear, are buckled up.
It's not so much about being concerned about their safety. It's about protecting yourself as the driver first. It is their choice if they are not concerned about their own safety but you as the driver, should be concerned of yours.
An unbuckled 70 kg passenger sitting directly behind you could in a collision at just 50 km/h, slam into you with the equivalent force of a 3.5 ton elephant, as illustrated in the video below.

Here's another one.
So buckle up, what's the point of asking how many airbags does a car have when you are not even using something as basic as a seatbelt?
The main image above is taken from a
Volvo XC60 T6
, which comes with integrated booster seats for children who have outgrown child seats but are at the same time too small to be adequately protected by seat belts.


Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Pre-empts Customers On SST Charges Due To Overwhelming Demand

In the interest of transparency, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) has pre-empted all customers who have yet to receive their vehicles and may not do so within the GST tax holiday period due to overwhelming demand, that they won’t be compensated for the difference in price of their chosen vehicle after the implementation of SST, which starts on 1st September.
The official correspondence MBM states:
“In our efforts to ensure your satisfaction as a customer with regards to a timely delivery of your selected Mercedes-Benz, we have refrained from committing to an exact date – especially in individual cases where we are not certain of registration on or before August 31, 2018. We are confident that our dealer partners and by extension, our esteemed sales personnel nationwide, have similarly conveyed this message.
Thus, we hope for your kind understanding should you not have been able to receive your vehicle within the period in which GST was zero percent. We have been working diligently and tirelessly with our Pekan production plant to
maximise

capacity
 of locally-assembled vehicles alongside a similar effort to expedite delivery of imported vehicles to Malaysia.
Further to this, we are doing our utmost such that our dealer partners are receiving these vehicles in an efficient manner to reduce your wait as
honoured
 clientele.
Through our dealer network and our qualified dealer personnel, we will ensure that you are constantly made aware of updates to your expected period of delivery. We are additionally at your disposal to explore every avenue should you choose to make an alternative decision on your vehicle purchase.
We truly appreciate the trust and loyalty of our customers and thank them sincerely for making us the leading luxury lifestyle brand in the premium automobile segment. Mercedes-Benz Malaysia is, and will always remain, committed to placing the customer at the
centre
 of our activities as an importer, producer, and distributor of premium automobiles to deliver the Best Customer Experience.”


Electronic Toll Payments To Take Over Fully By 2017, Agrees PLUS And MHA

PLUS Malaysia will go full steam ahead with the implementation of cashless payments at its tolls and expects to be drop the ‘tunai’ lane fully by 2017.
According to Bernama, Mohd Fuad Khusairi, chief operating officer of PLUS, said that currently 14 of the 92 toll plazas under its management of expressways were fully utilising cashless payments.
This roadmap also follows expectations by the Malaysian Highway Authority (MHA) that the ETC system would be fully implemented throughout the country by 2017.
"Seventy-eight toll plazas using the closed toll system have yet to go fully ETC. We expect all of them to use only the ETC method in two years.
"This is part of our efforts to reduce congestion at toll plazas because the ETC system saves time," Mohd Fuad told reporters at the Penang Bridge toll plaza.
ETC, or electronic toll collection, entails that motorists make payment via Touch n’ Go, PLUSMiles cards, SmarTAG or MyKad.
Speaking in regards to the Penang bridge toll plaza alone, Mohd Fuad said 82,000 vehicles used the bridge on a daily basis, and with the cashless implementation, PLUS foresees a 30 to 50 percent drop in traffic congestion.
The convenience of the ETC method has not gone unnoticed, with ETC payments at that toll plaza reaching as high as 90 percent.
An average of only 400 transactions per hour are possible under a conventional cash-only toll booth, a figure that  leaps to 550 per hour with Touch n’ Go cards and rockets to 1,200 transactions each hour with SmarTAG.
Additionally, September 9th also marks the day that other toll plazas under PLUS embrace fully cashless transactions: Jitra toll on the North-South Expressway, Bukit Kayu Hitam, Lunas (Butterworth-Kulim Expressway) and Kubang Semang (BKE).


Can the 2023 Toyota bZ3 become 'the Corolla' of EVs?

Newest in the Japanese automaker’s line of full EV models, the bZ3 looks to unseat rivals such as the Tesla Model 3 as the go-to everyday mid-size electric sedan, a spot that was synonymous with the Corolla in its heyday.

Can history repeat itself?

The bZ3 and its previously revealed fully electric sibling, the bZ4X, are anomalies in the larger Toyota automotive universe as the company has been vocally conservative about EVs in general, suggesting that the future landscape will rely on a variety of technologies following the depletion or collective governmental barring of combustion-powered vehicles.

Apart from the bZ line, which is set to expand to a line-up of 6 models by the end of the decade, Toyota is still fully onboard with hybrids while also keeping busy with hydrogen fuel cell technology like we’ve seen in the Mirai.

Based on the e-TNGA platform, the bZ3 also integrates batteries supplied by BYD. At 4,725mm long, 1,835mm wide, and 1,475mm tall, the car occupies a similar footprint to the Model 3 as well, and its chinese-sourced components are meant to give it a technological and emotional link to the market where Toyota plans to focus their sales effort most: China.

The onboard lithium ion phosphate (LFP) battery has been developed for greater energy storage density and capacity retention, claiming to hold 90% of its charge even after a 10-year ownership period.

Toyota has not revealed the exact kilowatt-hour (kWh) count just yet, but says the bZ3 is capable of 600km on a single charge, no doubt thanks to its slippery exterior with a drag coefficient of just 0.218Cd, which just edges past the recently revealed IONIQ 6 from Hyundai.

Sadly there are no power figures to dissect either, but we should expect around 200PS from a front-mounted electric motor since that’s what has been slotted into the bZ4X. Beefier units and all-wheel drive should be on the cards too, just further along its model life cycle.

With all Chinese EV brands preparing to spread their influence all over the world, Malaysia included, it’d be nice to see one coming from a company as familiar and trustworthy as Toyota. Sadly, at least for now, the bZ3 is destined solely for showrooms in China.


Eclimo ES-11 Dijual Dari RM10k – Caj Elektrik Hanya RM2 untuk 100km

Trend jualan
motosikal
 di Malaysia yang menunjukkan perkembangan memberangsangkan apabila mencatatkan jualan sekitar 450,000 hingga 500,000 unit dari tahun ke tahun. Bagaimana pula dengan motosikal elektrik?

Pengarah Eksekutif Eclimo Sdn Bhd, Datuk Dennis Chuah berkata, pengenalan
skuter elektrik
 buatan tempatan, Eclimo ES-11 telah membuktikan negara ini telah memiliki sistem teknologi yang terkini dalam memenuhi permintaan di peringkat serantau.

Menurutnya, jika dibandingkan dengan negara ASEAN atau peringkat global bagi teknologi dan kelajuan skuter yang boleh mencecah 100 km/j, ternyata tidak banyak yang dihasilkan. Maka, teknologi yang di miliki Malaysia ialah teknologi terkini.

Pada hujung tahun lalu, Eclimo dan NanoMalaysia Bhd (NMB) telah melancarkan motosikal elektrik, ES-11 dengan sistem pemantauan bateri (BMS) berstruktur nano. Dengan sistem BMS, keadaan bateri boleh dipantau dan maklumat akan dihantar apabila voltan bateri menurun.

Dari segi teknologi pula, motosikal elektrik ini juga dilengkapi dengan sistem pengesan dan perkhidmatan berdasarkan lokasi (
geo
-
fencing
) yang boleh dikawal melalui aplikasi mudah alih, selain ES-11 mempunyai sistem pengecasan soket palam tiga pin yang mudah.

Chuah menyasarkan sekurang-kurangnya 10% jualan daripada 450,000 jualan unit motosikal di negara ini, selain dieksport ke negara-negara ASEAN. Pihaknya telah mengambil masa 5 tahun untuk menjalankan penyelidikan dan pembangunan (R&D) khususnya pada bahagian bateri sebelum ES-11 dikeluarkan.

Oleh itu, teknologi yang dibangunkan dapat mengurangkan pelepasan karbon dioksida sehingga 7 kilogram atau dianggarkan 2.5 tan setahun untuk setiap pengguna. Berdasarkan beberapa inisiatif yang digerakkan oleh kerajaan termasuk Kementerian Sains, Teknologi dan Inovasi (MOSTI), permintaan terhadap skuter elektrik turut menunjukkan peningkatan berbanding tahun-tahun sebelumnya.

"Peningkatan tersebut berlaku kerana skuter elektrik mampu mengurangkan karbon dioksida selain mengurangkan kos. Walaupun
petrol
 di Malaysia diberikan subsidi, tetapi kita hanya menggunakan tiga pin soket untuk pengecasan untuk 100km dengan harga tidak sampai RM2. Ia memang menjimatkan,” jelas Chuah. Tambahnya, dari segi penyelenggaraan pula, skuter elektrik tidak memerlukan minyak pelincir,
spark plug
 atau enjin. Jadi ia bukan hanya menjimatkan elektrik tetapi juga bahagian alat ganti.

Pek bateri lithium-ion pada ES-11 dinilai pada 3.08 kWj dan boleh digunakan untuk 1,000 kitaran cas semula menggunakan arus domestik 240 volt. Caj penuh akan memacu ES-11 ke jarak 100 km dengan berat 155 kg. Skuter elektrik ini menggunakan roda 13-inci serta menggunakan brek cakera hidraulik di hadapan dan belakang.

Skuter elektrik ini ditawarkan dalam 7 pilihan warna seperti hitam, kelabu, putih, merah, oren, hijau dan biru. Harga jualan untuk versi asas bermula dari RM10,501.00 termasuk pendaftaran dan insurans, sementara versi ES-11 Pro pula bermula daripada RM14,500. Sementara itu, 2 model khas untuk kegunaan komersial, ES-11 Delivery dan ES-11 Utility masing-masing memiliki tanda harga RM14,500 dan RM14,700.


Isuzu Dura-Miles Challenge 2017 – Superb Efficiency Across Three Journeys

Having successfully completed two legs of its Isuzu Dura-Miles Challenge in Kuching and Ipoh, Isuzu Malaysia S.B. (IMSB) has now completed the third and final leg of this year’s Dura-Miles Challenge in Miri, Sarawak.
The Dura-Miles competition’s objective is to test one of D-Max key strength which is its fuel efficiency and as a way for Isuzu to engage with its customers. The main objective of the challenge is to complete the set distance with the least amount of fuel.
The results of the three legs of the Dura-Miles Challenge 2017 are as follows:
Kuching
Route from Taman Rekreasi Batu Kawah (MJC) to Sematan Palm Beach Resort and back to MJC
Total distance of approximately 208km (4 hours drive time)
29 participants
Vehicle Category
Winner
Litres consumed
km/l
Drive Conditions
2.5-Litre
Mr Jerry Anak Wan Jok
10.62
19.59
Rainy and mostly straight
3.0-Litre
Mr. Ng Quek Peng
12.33
16.87
Ipoh
Aeon Kinta City to Hotel Swiss Garden Damai Laut, Lumut and back to MH Hotel.
Total distance of approximately 250km (4.5 hours drive time)
27 participants
Vehicle Category
Winner
Litres consumed
km/l
Drive Conditions
2.5-Litre
Mr. Chuah Chen Yang
12.93
19.33
Hilly with many long corners
Miri
Isuzu Miri 3S Centre to Samalaju Resort Hotel and back to Coco Cabana, Miri
Total distance of 280km (4 hours drive time)
35 participants
Vehicle Category
Winner
Litres consumed
km/l
Drive Conditions
2.5-Litre
Ms. Maria AK Dian
14.20
19.72
Coastal roads with minor road upgrading and heavy trucks presence
3.0-Litre
Mr. Hiew Kim Leong
13.02
21.50
Chief Operating Officer of IMSB Masayuki Suzuki added, “From year to year, our D-Max innovation and evolution has made it a preferred pick-up truck for motorist due to its performance, comfort, dependability and certainly its fuel efficiency. To push our product limits, we did our third attempt to test our D-Max fuel efficiency in Dura-Miles Challenge in 2015.
“This time around, Isuzu organized this competition so that their customers can experience for themselves the fuel efficiency by participating in this challenge and have fun at the same time”, he added.


How We Squeezed RM15k Extra From An Old Car's Trade-In Value

Last year, we reported that Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) is putting a stop to the practice of giving heavy five-figure discounts to move their cars out of the stockyard.
“During festive seasons, there will be certain incentives given; but we definitely will not be seeing again price discounts of RM30,000 to RM40,000. Those will be out of the picture,” were the words of Mr Florian Steiner, MD of VPCM.
So, when VPCM announced its Trade-In programme for the Jetta and Passat to run from January to 31 March, we needed to see for ourselves.
How Does It Work?
The Volkswagen Trade-In programme is a promotion to trade-in your old car at a higher price. An appointed used car dealer gives your car a valuation, VPCM tops in an extra amount which can be plumped into your downpayment. It is not an outright discount of the vehicle’s price.
Visiting the Showroom
To check if there are hidden clauses which Volkswagen did not print in their advertisements, the
Carlist.my
 team brought a mystery shopper to visit a couple of Volkswagen dealerships and hear the words of salesperson about this promotion. Two of us visited a VW showroom with a five-year-old Japanese C-segment sedan to “trade-in”.
A solitary unit of the Passat was on display at the showroom floor – a 1.8 TSI Comfortline vehicle, and we made a beeline to the display vehicle after entering the premises.
We were greeted by a salesman not long after we started looking at the display car. I was observing his approach at the corner of my eye – the gentleman was middle-aged and obviously experienced in the trade. He was observing us for a couple of minutes from afar and slowly approached us, offering a courteous greeting.
After a quick rundown of the Passat’s USP, prices, and variants, we asked about the trade-in programme, and pointed at the direction of our vehicle to request for an evaluation. A few Whatsapp messages bounced between him and his used car dealer before he proceeded to explain the mechanics of the promo to us.
Test Driving the Passat 1.8 TSI Trendline
After further discussion, the salesman quite eagerly invited us to take the Passat out for a test drive. As it happens, this showroom has a demo unit of the 1.8 TSI Trendline, which we have yet to evaluate in a road test.
Despite being the most affordable variant in the Passat line-up (RM159,900 OTR without insurance), the Trendline model still comes with triple-zone climate control, engine push-start button, touchscreen infotainment, leather-wrapped steering with integrated audio controls, as well as all-round parking sensors.
A top up of RM20k to Comfortline trim, however, yields upsized 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, leather upholstery, 12-way electric front seat adjustment, paddle shifters, keyless entry with handsfree boot opening, and Park Assist 3.0.
According feedback from our mystery shopper, whose family owns a unit of the previous-generation Passat B7, the B8 offers finer low speed throttle control. Modulation is easier at low speed with less tendency to lurch forward when the intention is merely to gently move off.
As per our
earlier test drive report
, the Passat 1.8 TSI, with outputs of 180PS and 250Nm driving the front wheels through a 7-speed DSG, has more than enough straight line pace to outgun comparably priced Japanese D-segment sedans.
Concluding Thoughts
We were suitably satisfied with the service and professionalism of the salesman who attended to us. He was polite, responsive, and not pushy. He did not appear uncomfortably desperate to close the sale.
The dealer has yet to quote us a trade-in valuation of the car that we brought along, but we were offered up to a maximum of RM15,000 in trade-in support for both variants of the Passat 1.8 TSI (amount varies between model and variant) on top of whatever we’d be getting for our five-year-old Japanese C-segment sedan which is listing from RM59,800 to RM92,000 on
Carlist.my
 for the same make, model, and year.
In the case of our mystery shopper’s scenario, the RM15,000 trade in support more or less fully covers the required downpayment for either variants of the Passat 1.8 TSI.
A similar promo is also available for the new Jetta, details below:
Related:
You, Yes You. Volkswagen Wants Your Car, Now!


Bas Elektrik Di Wangsa Maju Bermula 1 November

Kementerian Wilayah Persekutuan akan memperkenalkan perkhidmatan
bas elektrik
 di Wangsa Maju yang dijadual bermula 1 November ini.

*Kredit foto: Bernama

Menterinya,
Datuk Seri Dr. Shahidan Kassim
 berkata, projek itu merupakan perintis kepada perbandaran sifar karbon pertama di Kuala Lumpur, lapor Bernama.

Perkhidmatan bas percuma GoKL akan mengaplikasi penggunaan kenderaan elektrik bateri (
BEV
) yang merupakan pelan tindakan yang dilaksanakan secara bersasar di sekitar ibu kota.

“Sejajar dengan itu, reka bentuk dan warna balutan luar turut diperbaharui dengan membawa tema hijau yang dilihat ke arah gaya hidup lebih sihat,” katanya dalam sidang media selepas melancarkan Bas Elektrik dan Laluan Baharu Bagi Perkhidmatan Bas Percuma GoKL di Wangsa Maju.

Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur (
DBKL
) menyasarkan penggunaan BEV sepenuhnya di semua laluan perkhidmatan bas GoKL menjelang tahun 2023.

“Bilangan bas elektrik ini akan ditambah secara berjadual dari semasa ke semasa dan sebuah bas mampu melengkapkan perjalanan sehingga 250km untuk sekali pengecasan,” katanya.

Perkhidmatan bas percuma GoKL akan memperkenalkan dua laluan baharu iaitu laluan Hijau Serindit dan laluan Kelabu yang akan mula beroperasi pada 1 November ini.

“Laluan Hijau Serindit sepanjang 13.78km ini akan bermula dari Hab Transit Aliran Massa (
MRT
) Terminal Maluri ke Bandar Seri Permaisuri, manakala Laluan Kelabu sepanjang 16.7km pula akan bermula dari MRT Cochrane ke Bandar Tun Razak”, katanya.

Dua laluan baharu ini diwujudkan bagi memberi penumpang membuat pilihan melakukan pertukaran mod pengangkutan daripada bas ke penggunaan rel, sekaligus dapat mencapai sasaran Kuala Lumpur sebagai
bandar raya rendah karbon
 2030.


Honda Announces Vezel With 1.5 VTEC Turbo For Japan

Honda has just announced that they will be introducing a new variant of the Vezel in Japan called the Vezel Touring. The Vezel is also known as the HR-V outside of Japan.
Set to be released on January 31
st
 2019, the Vezel Touring is powered by a 1.5-litre VTEC Turbo four-cylinder petrol engine. Honda has yet to release power figures, but its European arm recently unveiled the
HR-V Sport
, powered by a similar engine that does 182 PS and 220 Nm (CVT). When paired with a six-speed manual, the torque figure is higher at 240 Nm.
In addition to the new engine, Honda has also stated that the Vezel Touring can be had with two exclusive colours – Premium Crystal Blue Metallic or Super Platinum Gray Metallic. The Vezel Touring also receives a unique brown Ultrasuede interior trim that covers part of the dashboard, seats, centre console, and door trim.
Other equipment includes:
Smoked LED headlights
Chrome-plated front grille
Unique body kit
Emblems
Dual muffler tips
Roof rails
18-inch alloy wheels
Honda Sensing
The steering configuration on the Honda Vezel Touring is also bespoke to this model, utilizing a variable ratio electric power-assisted system that is complemented by Honda’s Agile Handling Assist technology, much like its European counterpart.


Honda Opens Up The Booking Book For The Facelift Honda CR-V

The mad dash to launch vehicles before the end of 2020 just received another participant with Honda Malaysia confirming that it will be accepting bookings at all 101 of Honda Malaysia's authorised dealerships nationwide for the facelifted 2020 Honda CR-V.

The booking books are now officially open for the facelifted 2020 Honda CR-V, while the launch of the SUV in Malaysia is expected to be in Q4 2020.

Just like many Honda facelift vehicles in the past, the aesthetics only receive subtle but noticeable changes and the facelift CR-V is no different.

The Honda CR-V facelift receives a new black grille combined with Honda's Signature LED headlights, while the new front bumper with new Wing-style chrome fascia enhances its bold appearance. The changes continue at the rear with new rear dark chrome and new smoked finish taillights. The rear bumper is also garnished with new wing-style chrome fascia and new tailpipe finisher. Further elevating the aesthetics of the New CR-V are its 18-inch dual-tone alloy wheels with a new design.

Perhaps the most noticeable new thing of the facelift Honda CR-V comes in the form of a convenient feature as the Honda CR-V will now come equipped with a handsfree powered tailgate (on selected variants) which can be activated with a foot motion under the rear bumper to open and close the cargo. This advanced feature provides convenience and easy access during loading and unloading cargo.

The drivetrain remains unchanged, with the tried and tested 1.5L VTEC Turbo engine, which produces 193PS and 243Nm, power is sent to a CVT-type automatic transmission.

The CR-V will also retain its all-wheel-drive 1.5L TC 4WD variant, in addition to the three 2WD variants - namely the 2.0L 2WD, 1,5L TC, and 1.5L TC-P.

Honda LaneWatch is now also a standard safety feature in the 2020 CR-V. Developed to improve driver awareness and assure safety, this system features a camera mounted on the left passenger side mirror with visuals displayed on the car's infotainment screen when the left turn signal is engaged.

As before, the Premium variant of 2020 CR-V will be equipped with the Honda Sensing suite of active-safety features which consists of eight features:

1. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

2. Low-Speed Follow (LSF)

3. Forward Collision Warning (FCW)

4. Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS)

5. Lane Departure Warning (LDW)

6. Road Departure Mitigation (RDM)

7. Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)

8. Auto High-Beam (AHB)

Since its launch in 2017, more than 36,0001 units of the 5th Generation CR-V have been delivered to Malaysian customers, contributing 19% (as of August 2020) to the overall Non-National SUV segment.

The launch of the New CR-V in Malaysia is expected to be in Q4 2020 and will up the ante to be the all-rounder of the SUV segment.


Don't get stuck in the toll lane, use MaxTag!

In current times where technologically advanced RFID payment systems are on the up, some motorists still prefer to use the proven, predictable and dependable infrared light technology payment tool known as MaxTag. Infrared technology has been around for 20 years now, and in its current evolutionary state, it is one of the most trustworthy ways to open up those pesky toll booth gateways.

Luckily for these smart motorists, they can now upgrade to the next generation device, because the original manufacturer of Smart Tag has evolved its creation and engineered a more efficient device called MaxTag.

Following the tried and tested recipe of a dependable device, MaxTag is powered by a 9-volt battery, which in turn starts it up so that it can help extract and display credit balance from a Touch n Go card. MaxTag can also instantaneously and securely help with transactions at the toll booths for an uninterrupted journey - why fix something that is not broken right?

Having said that, the new device has been created with the latest in microprocessing power and LCD screen so that users can experience swifter processing time and a brighter display. Not only is it more efficient, it is also more robust, through usage of a new high-impact resistant casing which helps it to withstand scorching Malaysian temperatures for better performance and reliability. It is built to withstand the harshest of weather conditions and treatment.

The new device also comes with anti-cloning technology which helps users keep their balance safe as well as deterring incorrect deductions. The days of worry about being robbed by clever electronic thieves are long gone.

The MaxTag kit is easy to install if you wish to mount it in your car, as it does not require specialised installation. In the box, buyers will get one bracket holder, one original long-lasting GP battery and a year's warranty. In the unlikely event that the device malfunctions, repairs are available at Basset Sdn. Bhd, encompassing a stress-free user experience for many years to come. Basset also provides repair service for previous generation infrared toll tags like SmartTag where its warranty period has expired.

You can get yourself and your loved one's a MaxTag
here
!


Das WeltAuto Launched at Volkswagen Fest 2019

In conjunction with the third annual Volkswagen Fest, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) launched Das WeltAuto, Volkswagen’s global used car programme that offers customers certified used cars they can trust. Das WeltAuto is backed by the company’s global know-how, standards, processes, and warranty coverage of the Volkswagen Group.
All models and brands are accepted for trade-in at Das WeltAuto. Customers can be assured of peace of mind as all Das WeltAuto certified vehicles undergo a strict and thorough 133-point check conducted and verified by Volkswagen Master Technicians.
Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM said that Das WeltAuto is a hassle-free solution to those interested in trading in and purchasing used cars. “What makes Das WeltAuto different from other used car channels is that you can expect the same exceptional level of service as a new car purchase experience from a dealer you can trust, with experienced sales staff who will provide the best advice and maximum transparency. All this from a brand you can rely on – and most importantly, a product you can trust.“
Customers of Das WeltAuto certified vehicles are entitled to a 1-year extended warranty and 1-year roadside assistance. Additionally, customers can opt for the Volkswagen Care Plus benefits if their vehicle is over five years old. Terms and conditions apply.
As part of Das WeltAuto’s guidelines, only genuine parts are used on the certified vehicles, all vehicles are also verified to be accident-free and come with complete proof of service at authorized Volkswagen service centres.
Das WeltAuto is currently available at four Volkswagen dealerships; Volkswagen Puchong, Volkswagen Gombak, Volkswagen Alor Setar, and Volkswagen Juru. Alternatively, check out the
Das WeltAuto website
 for the latest deals, or to book a test drive.


High Demand For Porsche 911 - 718 Cayman's Production To Be Relocated

Due to the success of the new Porsche 911, Porsche will be relocating production of the 718 Cayman from Zuffenhausen in Stuttgart to the Osnabreuck plant.
Speaking to Automotive News Europe, August Achleiner, head of Porsche’s sport car lineup said, "We are currently planning on moving the bulk of Cayman production in the course of this year to Osnabrueck, possibly all of it, in order to meet the increased demand for the 911.”
The relocation will allow Porsche to focus its attention on the new 911, as the plant in Zuffenhausen is rather small in size.
Automotive News Europe also reported that the shift of the Cayman’s production is expected to happen in August during the summer holidays.
The Osnabreuck plant was acquired by the Volkswagen Group back in 2010. Prior to the acquisition, the plan was owned by Karmann until its demise in 2009.


Volkswagen Up! GTI Geared For Early 2018 Introduction

Volkswagen has introduced a concept version of their entry-level model, the Volkswagen up! called the up! GTI. The company said that the new model will be introduced to various markets early next year.
The new Volkswagen up! GTI draws inspiration from the original Volkswagen Golf GTI. Forty one year ago, Volkswagen showed the world what the little Golf GTI could achieve with 110 PS coupled with a compact body and low curb weight. Volkswagen's new up! GTI concept pays tribute to that, boasting a similar recipe that made the original Golf GTI a success. Power is up 5 PS to 115 PS, though the turbocharged TSI engine in the up! GTI outputs more torque at 230 Nm. Volkswagen added that the near-production up! GTI completes the century sprint in 8.8 seconds before reaching a max speed of 197 km/h.
Outside, Volkswagen's GTI emblem sets the up! GTI from its regular counterpart. In front is the signature red stripe that cuts across the honeycomb radiator grille with an integrated GTI emblem. Side mirrors are finished in high-gloss black. The red stripe trend continues to the roof edge spoiler that's designed to provide improved downforce. Ride height has been lowered by 15 mm.
The GTI trail continues inside with its GTI gear knob and legendary clark seat pattern. The sport steering wheel is leather-wrapped as well.
Volkswagen said that the new up! GTI will be available in classic GTI colours, Tornado Red and Pure White. Those wanting a metallic finish can opt for Dark Silver, Black Pearl and Costa Azul (blue).


Perodua Alza 2022 vs Toyota Veloz 2022 – Apa Yang Berbeza?

Perodua Alza 2022
serta kembarnya,
Toyota Veloz 2022
 akan dilancarkan di pasaran Malaysia tidak lama lagi. Persoalannya, apa beza antara kedua-dua model ini?

Seperti yang diketahui ramai, Perodua Alza 2022 akan berkongsi platform serta asas yang sama dengan Toyota Veloz 2022. Walaupun kedua-duanya kembar, namun terdapat beberapa perbezaan sama seperti
Perodua Aruz dan Toyota Rush.

Gril Hadapan

Perbezaan paling ketara dapat dilihat semestinya pada rekaan luarannya di mana Toyota Veloz menggunakan kemasan gril seakan-akan
Toyota Corolla Cross
 sementara Perodua Alza menampilkan rekaan gril berbentuk seakan-akan seperti
Perodua Ativa.

Lampu Nyalaan Siang (DRL)

Meskipun kedua-dua model ini menerima lampu signal jenis sekuential, namun kedudukan DRL pada kedua-dua model ini adalah berbeza di mana lampu DRL Alza berada di bahagian atas lampu utamanya manakala Veloz menampilkan DRL di sebelah bawah lampu utama.

Saiz Rim

Selain itu, Veloz menggunakan saiz rim aloi yang lebih besar, iaitu 17 inci berbanding Alza yang hanya menggunakan rim aloi bersaiz 16 inci.

Bahagian Belakang

Bahagian belakang kedua-dua model ini juga sedikit berbeza di bahagian
diffuser
. Walau bagaimanapun, Veloz mempunyai lampu LED bersambung di bahagian belakang sementara Alza tidak mempunyai ciri ini.

Rel Bumbung

Berdasarkan teaser yang dikeluarkan oleh Toyota, Veloz akan dilengkapi dengan rel bumbung. Namun berdasarkan imej Alza yang tersebar sebelum ini, rel bumbung itu seperti tidak kelihatan pada Alza.

Interior

Meskipun menggunakan dashboard yang sama, namun kedua-dua model ini sudah pasti bakal tiba dengan kemasan yang sedikit berbeza. Kedua-duanya hadir dengan paparan infotainmen bersaiz 9 inci dengan sambungan Apple Carplay dan Android Auto serta paparan MID bersaiz 7 inci.

Bahagian kabin Veloz juga menampilkan dua tona warna, iaitu hitam dan putih sementara melalui teaser yang dikeluarkan oleh Perodua, kabin dalamannya kelihatan seperti menerima gabungan warna hitam serta merah pada bahagian pintu serta tempat duduk.

Selain itu, Veloz di Indonesia turut menerima paparan hiburan bagi tempat duduk belakang. Namun ini tidak dapat dipastikan sama ada Toyota Veloz di Malaysia akan turut menerima ciri tersebut, namun Perodua Alza mungkin tidak dilengkapi dengan ciri itu.

Enjin

Veloz di Malaysia bakal menggunakan enjin petrol 2NR-VE 1.5 liter empat silinder NA bersama padanan kotak gear D-CVT automatik dengan 7 kelajuan sekuential. UMW Toyota masih belum mendedahkan sepenuhnya output yang dihasilkan, namun model yang sama di pasaran Indonesia menghasilkan 106 PS dan 138 Nm tork.

Enjin yang sama itu dijangka akan digunakan oleh Perodua Alza kelak memandangkan ia merupakan enjin yang sama digunakan pada Perodua Myvi 2022, namun outputnya ditingkatkan sebanyak 4 PS berbanding Myvi yang menghasilkan 102 PS. Meskipun output sebenar enjin ini masih belum dikeluarkan oleh Perodua, namun menurut Perodua, kereta ini mampu mencapai penggunaan bahan api serendah 22.0 km/l dan diiktiraf sebagai kenderaan cekap tenaga (EEV).

Dimensi

Perodua Alza dan Toyota Veloz menggunakan platform
 Daihatsu New Global Architecture (DNGA).
 Ini menjadikan dimensi dan saiz kedua-dua kereta ini kemungkinan besar sama sahaja.

Panjang: 4,475 mm

Lebar: 1,750 mm

Tinggi: 1,700 mm

Jarak antara roda: 2,750 mm

Kapasiti but: 498 liter jika barisan tempat duduk ketiga diturunkan.

Warna

Alza 2022 tidak menawarkan warna biru manakala Toyota Veloz pula tidak ditawarkan dalam warna coklat. Berikut adalah pilihan warna yang ditawarkan bagi kedua-dua model ini:

Alza:

Ivory White

Glittering Silver

Garnet Red

Elegant Black (BAHARU)

Vintage Brown (BAHARU)

Veloz:

White

Metallic bluish black

Red metallic

Silver metallic (dua tona)

Blue metallic (dua tona)

Ciri Keselamatan

Kedua-dua model ini bakal menerima ciri paparan kamera 360 darjah, dan akan diberikan ciri keselamatan aktif seperti Perodua Smart Drive Assist (PSDA) bagi Alza serta Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) bagi Veloz. Berikut merupakan ciri keselamatan yang disahkan akan ditawarkan pada Alza:

Perodua Smart Drive Assist:

A.S.A. 3.0

Driving Assist

Parking Assist

Headlamp Assist

Meskipun Veloz turut akan hadir dengan ciri keselamatan aktif, namun UMW Toyota masih belum mendedahkan ciri penuh bagi TSS untuk pasaran Malaysia ini. Namun sistem TSS itu mungkin lebih kurang dengan sistem PSDA pada Alza yang menampilkan fungsi seperti:

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

Kawalan Kekal Lorong (LKC)

Pemantau Titik Buta (BSM)

Amaran Lintasan Trafik Belakang (RCTA)

Harga

Perodua Alza 2022:

1.5 X CVT – RM62,000

1.5 H CVT – RM68,000

1.5 AV CVT – RM75,000

Toyota Veloz:

1.5 AT – RM95,000

Berdasarkan perbezaan harga, Toyota Veloz 2022 adalah RM20,000 lebih mahal berbanding MPV sama dengan lencana Perodua, meskipun kedua-duanya diasaskan dari platform dan kerangka yang sama. Sama seperti Toyota Rush dan Perodua Aruz, Perodua Alza 2022 ini dilihat sebagai versi MPV yang lebih mampu milik berbanding Veloz.

Perbezaan yang lebih menyeluruh tidak dapat dilakukan ketika ini memandangkan kedua-dua model ini masih lagi belum dilancarkan dan banyak ciri-ciri yang masih belum didedahkan. Namun jika anda mahukan MPV yang mampu milik, Alza adalah pilihan terbaik namun jika anda mahukan MPV yang lebih premium, Veloz adalah pilihan yang terbaik.


UMW Toyota Announces Round Two Of Fuel Pump Recall

UMW Toyota today has announced a Special Service Campaign (SSC) to replace the fuel pump for Toyota Avanza. This is an expansion of an earlier
campaign
.

There are 3,923 units of the Toyota Avanza manufactured from October 2017 to June 2019 involved in the campaign this time around. Models not listed here are not affected by this recall.

The subject vehicles are equipped with a fuel-pump that may stop operating. This will cause warning lights and error messages on the instrument panel which could result in the vehicle stalling, unable to restart.

UMWT will officially notify all affected vehicle owners to replace the fuel pump unit at no charge.

For further information, owners of affected cars may contact any authorised Toyota Service Centre or call the Toyota Freephone at 1800-8-TOYOTA (869682).


Aston Martin Prepares for SUV Production in 2019

Aston Martin announced yesterday that it has officially begun redeveloping what used to be the Welsh Ministry of Defence’s facility in St Athan, Wales, which the brand has just taken over to transform into its second manufacturing plant in the UK.
Just over a year ago, Aston Martin announced that St Athan had been chosen as the site for its second UK manufacturing plant from 20 potential global locations as part of the growth strategy under the companies Second Century Plan.
While Phase I commenced in late 2016 when Aston Martin was first given access to part of the site, Phase II marks the beginning of the project that will see the three super hangars redeveloped into a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility.
The new plant, which is expected to bring close to 800 employment opportunities to South Wales, will most likely be used to produce the brand’s upcoming SUV – the DBX.
The former military site was formally handed over to Aston Martin at a ceremony held yesterday, where Aston Martin’s president and CEO Dr. Andy Palmer said, “Due to its sheer size and scale, the St Athan Super Hangars represented an excellent opportunity for us to build our second manufacturing facility, within the envelope of an existing structure. It is perhaps fitting that St Athan is, like our headquarters and sports car factory at Gaydon, a former Royal Air Force base.
The investment into St Athan is part of Aston Martins wider industrial expansion plans which will see 1,000 new jobs created across its two manufacturing sites by 2020, with a likely further 3,000 across the supply chain and local businesses in Wales.


Myvi Dihentam Lori Tetapi Pemandu Selamat - Kereta Buatan Malaysia Tahan Lasak!

Myvi
kuning hancur dihentam lori tapi pemandu selamat? Kereta buatan Malaysia tahan lasak? Jom kita tengok semula taraf penilaian ujian pelanggaran
ASEAN NCAP
 yang diberikan ada Myvi model dan generasi ini.

Pasti ramai yang sudah menyaksikan gambar atau video yang tular tentang sebuah Perodua Myvi kuning yang hancur remuk akibat dilanggar pemandu
lori
 yang berada di bawah pengaruh dadah tempoh hari. Jika kita lihat dari segi keadaan atau sifat Myvi tersebut selepas dilanggar, pasti ramai yang tidak menyangka bahawa pemandu tersebut hanya cedera ringan dan masih boleh keluar dari keretanya dengan sendiri sambil dibantu orang awam.

Tidak dinafikan, ajal dan maut itu memang di tangan tuhan. Tetapi tahap ketahanan sesebuah kereta itu mungkin memainkan peranan ketika menghadapi situasi pelanggaran seperti ini. Untuk pengetahuan anda, Myvi kuning yang sering kelihatan di jalan raya merupakan
Myvi SE
 dari generasi kedua yang dikeluarkan pada tahun 2011. Myvi ini tidak lagi dibina berdasarkan Toyota Passo generasi pertama serta diberi nama
Myvi Lagi Best
.

Jadi tidak salah lagi, Myvi kuning yang remuk itu merupakan generasi Myvi Lagi Best. Berdasarkan ujian pelanggaran mengikut penilaian ASEAN NCAP, Perodua Myvi jenis ini hanya menerima 3 bintang dari segi perlindungan terhadap pemandu/ penumpang dewasa dan 54% perlindungan terhadap penumpang kanak-kanak.

Mengapa bukan 5 bintang? Untuk pengetahuan anda, sekiranya sesebuah kereta itu tiada
Kawalan Kestabilan Elektronik (ESC)
dan Peringatan tali pinggang keledar untuk penumpang depan, model ini hanya layak mendapat maksimum 4 bintang sahaja. Sayangnya, Myvi generasi terdahulu ini tidak dilengkapi dengan ESC pada waktu itu.

Jom kita lihat dengan lebih mendalam tentang keputusan penilaian ujian pelanggaran mengikut ASEAN NCAP terhadap Myvi jenis ini.

Jenis Myvi Yang Diuji:

Varian: SX

Tahun Dibina: 2012

Tahun Model: 2011

Kategori Kenderaan 4-Pintu Hatchback

Kapasiti Enjin: 1.3L Petrol

Berat Kerb: 967 kg

Tempat Ujian: Miros PC3

Tahap Perlindungan Pemandu/Penumpang Dewasa

Perodua Myvi mencatatkan skor sebanyak 8.71 daripada 16 skor keseluruhan. Hasil pelanggaran, bahagian dada pemandu menerima impak paling besar dan dikategorikan sebagai lemah. Namun Myvi ini hanya menjalani ujian pelanggaran dari arah depan sahaja. Dalam insiden kemalangan yang berlaku baru-baru ini, Myvi tersebut telah dihentam dari arah belakang. Namun hasil daripada pelanggaran tersebut, bahagian hadapannya turun hancur kerana berlanggar dengan Honda
HR-V
 di hadapannya.

Bagi melindungi penumpang serta pemandu hadapan, Myvi ini telah dilengkapi dengan ciri keselamatan pasif seperti beg udara keselamatan dari arah hadapan sahaja.

Tahap Perlindungan Penumpang Kanak-Kanak

Bagi penumpang kanak-kanak pula, dua patung kanak-kanak telah diletakkan di tempat duduk belakang semasa ujian. Salah satu daripada patung tersebut menggunakan tempat duduk bayi yang menggunakan sistem
isofix
 manakala satu lagi menggunakan tali pinggang. Berdasarkan penilaian yang diterima, Myvi ini mencatatkan 26.23 mata daripada 49 mata atau 53.54% secara keseluruhan.

Teknologi Bantuan Keselamatan

Memandangkan ianya model terdahulu, jadi ciri keselamatannya agak ketinggalan sedikit berbanding Myvi generasi ketiga yang menerima penarafan
5 bintang ASEAN NCAP
. Myvi ini tidak dilengkapi dengan Kawalan Kestabilan Elektronik (ESC) serta
ABS
. Sistem peringatan tali pinggang keledar pula hanya ditawarkan kepada pemandu sahaja di mana penumpang di tempat duduk hadapan tidak menerima ciri ini.

Percaya atau tidak hanya ini sahaja ciri keselamatan yang ada pada Myvi Lagi Best ini. Sistem keselamatan
Advanced Safety Assist
 (ASA)
Perodua masih belum diperkenalkan pada Myvi ketika ini. Ini membuktikan bahawa keadaan pemandu yang selamat dalam kemalangan tempoh hari merupakan satu keajaiban bak kata pepatah, berpantang maut sebelum ajal.

Untuk varian Myvi SE generasi kedua yang amat popular dengan warna kuning ini, ia menggunakan kapasiti enjin yang lebih besar iaitu 1.5L DDVT. Kalau anda nak tahu, ini merupakan enjin yang sama digunakan pada
Perodua Alza
. Bezanya, Perodua Alza bersaiz besar dan lebih berat berbanding Myvi. Kiranya, enjin 3SZ-VE 1.5 liter yang mampu menjana 109 PS dan 141 Nm ini lebih daripada memadai bagi Perodua Myvi.

Meskipun kereta ini laju, namun Myvi Lagi Best ini hanya menerima 3 bintang taraf keselamatan daripada ASEAN NCAP. Jika nak dibandingkan dengan kelajuan yang mampu dihasilkan oleh jentera ini pada dengan ciri keselamatannya, ia belum cukup kuat. Jadi sekiranya anda memiliki Myvi generasi awal seperti ini, berhati-hatilah ketika memandu laju di jalan raya.

Yang paling penting, jangan mendadah sebelum memandu!


March and Q1 2018 New Vehicle Sales – An Uninspiring Quarter

Malaysia's automotive industry continues to see a downward trend for 2018, as Quarter 1 (January to March 2018) have charted lower vehicles sold than Q1 2017.
For March, the total industry volume (TIV) was 49,985 units, a reduction of 3,733 units versus March last year. Taking the sales performance of the first three months, Q1 2018 ended with 135,140 units versus Q1 2017 of 140,840 units, representing a 4% decline (or 5,700 units).
Apart from Perodua and Mazda who are enjoying a strong 2018 thus far, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, and Peugeot are also achieving a positive Q1. Below is the summary of the top 9 strong performers of 2018, and the key reason for their strong Q1 2018. Newly-launched models such as GLC class, Tiguan, Passat, 3008, Outlander CKD and XV have improved the sales performance of their respective brands.
However, the strong performance of these few brands could not overcome the weak consumer sentiments, which are reflected in the drop of Q1 sales in big names such as Toyota, Honda, and Proton.
Honda Malaysia end their first quarter with a year-on-year decline meant that the company will have a very challenging 9 months ahead to achieve their announced 2018 target of 109,000 units.
While government agencies portray a rather optimistic Q1 (improving consumer index, stabilized price index), the automotive industry is still experiencing a weak consumer sentiment. With the General Elections schedule for May 9
th
, we expect a weaker than expected April 2018, and perhaps the month of May too, as consumers will be have reduced working days plus adopt a wait-and-see approach to the GE14.
Nonetheless, with Q1 being the weakest quarters of the year (Q4 traditionally the strongest), there are still plenty of new models to excite the market in the second half of the year and perhaps reach closer to
MAA’s forecasted TIV of 590,000 units
.


Honda CR-V Now Comes In Two New Colours For 2022

Honda Malaysia
 has announced that the
Honda CR-V
 model for 2022 is now offered in two new colour options - Ignite Red Metallic and Meteoroid Gray Metallic.

This new announcement of the additional colour options for the
Honda CR-V
 also means that they'll replace two outgoing colourways - Passion Red Pearl and Modern Steel Metallic.

Good for the other models, good for the CR-V

According to Honda Malaysia's Managing Director and CEO, Mr Hironobu Yoshimura, "The Ignite Red Metallic and Meteoroid Gray Metallic colours received good market acceptance since they were introduced in the Honda models, namely City, City Hatchback, Civic, BR-V and the newly-launched All-New HR-V, while the Accord also offers the Meteoroid Gray Metallic colour."

"With the CR-V as the latest model to receive both colour options, we have completed the expansion of the Ignite Red Metallic and Meteoroid Gray Metallic colours into the Honda line-up. We are confident that both new colours will further accentuate the appearance of the CR-V for customers who seek an SUV with a bolder and modern exterior," added Mr Hironobu.

Four variants to choose from

The Honda CR-V is offered in four different variants for the Malaysian market with two engine options. For those who are interested, the Honda CR-V in 2022 is priced from RM146,900 to RM171,400 (retail price excluding insurance).


2017 Nissan X-Trail Aero Edition – Tomei Aero Parts For RM4.4k

The popular
Nissan X-Trail
 receives the option of a new accessories package adding specially-designed aero parts, gloss black alloy wheels, and Nappa leather seats.
Dubbed the X-Trail Aero Edition, the new accessories package is offered to both the 2.0-litre FWD and 2.5-litre AWD versions of the X-Trail at a premium of RM4,452 over the price of the regular car.

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External bits include aero lower spoilers added to both front and rear bumpers as well as along the sides of the vehicle. The parts are designed by Tomei Motor Co Ltd, a Japanese company specializing in motorsports parts.
In conjunction with the 60
th
 anniversary of the Tan Chong Group, Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd is running a promo for the X-Trail Aero Edition offering either cash savings of RM6,000 or rebates of RM4,500 with the option to top in RM1 for an 8-inch multimedia navigator unit.
The Aero Edition pack is also available for upgrade to existing Nissan X-Trail owners.
Prices for the 2017 Nissan X-Trail range in Malaysia (OTR without insurance) are as follows:
2.0 FWD: RM136,979.96
2.0 FWD Aero Edition: RM141,428.96
2.5 AWD: RM159,164.06
2.5 AWD Aero Edition: RM163,616.06


The Fast And The Furiously Coveted: Some Of The Most Iconic - And Valuable - Cars From The Films

We would pay a lot of money for pieces of the movie worlds we appreciate so much. And we tend pay a lot for cars too. Naturally these would overlap, such as it did when Paul Walker’s
Toyota
 Supra from The Fast and the Furious
went up for auction
. But what of the other cars from the series?
Are they not worth as much? Should they be? Or perhaps worth even more? Now that the bar has been set, we know conclusively that the cars from this movie franchise in particular are worth a pretty penny -
particularly this one
. In the Supra’s case, more so because of the tragic death of
Paul Walker
, the actor who played its driver, in 2013.
Maybe some of the other cars that have shined through the series’ seven instalments (to date) deserve some love too, more so the ones that didn’t make it out of the movie in one piece and made us cringe a little in that particular scene where it meets its demise – like Dom’s Dodge Charger pretty much every time.
Here we’ve compiled a little list – in no particular order - of the most iconic Fast & Furious cars that haven’t been sold yet but, with the right buyer, could rake in an eye-widening sum. Anyone care to guess how much they could be worth?
Please note that your favourite car in the series may or may not have made the list.
Dom’s 1970 Dodge Charger R/T
There’s no way this car is going to miss this list, or any other list of cars from Fast & Furious. In the movie, Dom was afraid to drive the 900hp muscle car because of lingering memories of his deceased father who he built it with. But that wouldn’t last long, and it’s been a scene-stealer of four films in the series. Let’s face it, Dodge Chargers are always just cool, especially when they can generate enough torque to wheelie itself (it was just a movie stunt, we know, but still we're impressed by the idea).
Han’s 1997 Mazda RX-7
The Veilside 1997
Mazda

RX-7
 is an icon of the The Fast and The Furious: Tokyo Drift. After seeing it the 2005 Tokyo Auto Show, Universal Studious thought it would be perfect for their upcoming movie and bought it outright. Veilside’s exterior modifications widened the stock car by almost a foot and gave it a look unlike any other. Shame it met a gruesome end along with its driver at the end of the movie.
Letty’s Jensen Interceptor
The Jensen Interceptor is a black swan among its peers here, which makes it all the more intriguing. Its British, to start with. In Fast 6, everyone’s favourite tough-girl Letty drives a matte grey Interceptor that’s as discreet but also rage-filled as they come. It had black stripes as well, which factually just makes a car better. The car in the movie had under the hood a 6.3-litre V8 from General Motors’s Performance division, a side mounted exhaust system and just looks/sounds glorious as it raced in London’s underground street race in Fast 6.
Dom's Dodge Charger Daytona
Now, Dom’s original Charger R/T is undisputed in its legend status in the world of Fast and Furious, but Fast 6 also introduced us to the one of a kind Dodge’s Charger Daytona that was built from scratch for the movie. Orginally a homologation special during Nascar’s aero wars of 1969 and 1970, the narrow-nosed, large-winged Charger Daytona was unlike any other car since or before. In the movie, Dom would use it to take on Letty’s Jensen Interceptor. Even with copious modifications, we’re a little sceptical about whether it can be as light on its feet as it was on screen. A car that was received pretty poorly when it was unveiled in the late 60s, despite pummelling its race competition, is now one of the rarest vehicles of the era and one of the most head-turning cars on the planet.
Brian’s Silver/Blue Nissan Skyline GT-R R34
There’s no way we would have left this car off the list. Brian O’Connor loves his Skyline GT-Rs, and so do we. The R34 GT-R’s reputation in street racing circuits is well deserved and fits perfectly with the film series. Brian has driven other GT-R’s before in the franchise, but the silver and blue example from 2 Fast 2 Furious clinched its slot almost immediately once we saw it.
Special Mention: Lykan HyperSport
This doesn’t have to be auctioned off to be worth a huge amount of money, as it already is, and then some. This RM12,782,000 car starred in Fast 7's most iconic stunt scenes (one of them, at least) and became the poster boy for the movie’s marketing materials. Power comes from a 3.8-litre 770hp twin-turbo flat-six from Porsche tuner RUF and a collection of the rarest materials on earth just for the headlamps, ranging from diamonds, blue sapphires, white gold, rubies and others.
If you need a little refresher of exactly what that stunt looked like:
After looking through that list, there's certainly some very desirable machines that the movie series has allowed us to enjoy on screen. In that transition to reality however, the biggest question we're left with is, apart from the Lykan HyperSport, can we put a price on them at all?


New Subaru Forester Display Units for Sale. From RM119, 800

Motor Image Malaysia, the official distributor of Subaru vehicles in Malaysia announced that it is offering attractive prices on the unregistered launch, roadshow and showroom display units of
the new Forester (CKD)
.
According to the company, the units on promotion are priced from RM119, 800 (on-the-road with GST without insurance) for Peninsular Malaysia customers and from RM122, 261 (on-the-road with GST without insurance) for East Malaysia customers, which is about RM20,000 off the normal price of RM139,800.
The new Forester 2.0i and 2.0i-P variants are powered by Subaru’s 2.0-litre four-cylinder 16-Valve, FB20 Horizontally-Opposed Boxer engine. The SUV is also armed with Subaru’s core technology, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system.
Offered with a factory warranty of five (5) years and three (3) years free service from point of registration, the new Forester, which comes in 5 colour options - Pure White, Ice Silver Metallic, Sepia Bronze Metallic, Dark Grey Metallic and Obsidian Black Pearl, comes with seven airbags, electronic stability control (Subaru calls it VDC), ABS with EBD, ISOFIX child seat anchors and hill descent control.
Not only that, Subaru says the Forester’s high-tensile strength steel and reinforced frame body is able to withstand up to 1.5 tons.
It is said that the display units are available for booking at all Subaru showrooms nationwide.
Looking for a Subaru? Find one now at
Carlist.my


Anthony Loke: Last Warning For Honda, Mazda, Subaru Owners For Takata Airbag Recall

Transport Minister Anthony Loke has given the last warning to almost 80,000 Honda, Mazda, and Subaru owners who have yet to replace their faulty Takata airbag inflators.
According to Loke, these three manufacturers currently have sufficient stock of the airbag inflators to accommodate the recall process.
Loke added that owners of these three marques have less than 2 months to get their airbag inflators replaced before they are blacklisted by the Road Transport Department (JPJ).
“I have asked the companies to send final reminder within two weeks. After that JPJ will issue Notice 114 to summon these car owners to update their status. If they still ignore the notice after a month, we will begin the blacklisting process, which means they will not be able to renew their road taxes,” he said.
As for owners of BMW, Mitsubishi, Nissan, and Toyota models, they are given a grace period of another 2 months as these companies do not have sufficient stock of the airbag inflators.
Loke stressed that the move was not meant to burden car owners, but the reluctances of some owners forced the government to use the word ‘blacklist’. “If we don’t threaten them with the word ‘blacklist’, they will never do it. They should realise what matters most is their lives, not the road tax renewal,” he added.
The Malay Mail
 added that the government has spent RM1 million since 26 June to send out letters to 408,551 motorists, but only 70,853 have replaced their faulty Takata airbag inflators.


Honda City Retains Top Spot As Segment Leader

The Honda City is still the undisputed leader in the B-segment, with cumulative sales of its 300,000 units in Malaysia since its introduction 17 years ago.
Honda Malaysia has sold more than 155,300 units of the 4
th
 generation City since its introduction in 2014. The refreshed City was introduced in March 2017, and more than 48,900 units have been sold since then till August 2018.
Between January to August 2018, the sales of the Honda City contributed 30% to the overall sales for Honda Malaysia, capturing a 51% market share along the way. In that same period, sales of the City increased 16% compared to the same period in 2017.
In that 8-month period, the mid-range E variant of the City was the most popular variant amongst buyers, with a 44% share. The range-topping V variant was trailing behind with a 33% share. 49% of the sales came from the Central region, followed by the Southern region at 20% and Northern region at 19%.
Honda Malaysia Managing Director and Chief Executive Office, Mr. Toichi Ishiyama said, “We are delighted to mark this milestone of surpassing the 300,000 unit sales for the City within a span of 17 years since it was first introduced in Malaysia. This has proven the success of the City in Malaysia. The 4 th Generation City is the best-selling model in Honda and the model continues to lead in the B-segment. This outstanding record achievement would not have been possible without the support from our customers. I would like to extend our sincere appreciation and thankfulness to Malaysians for their support and belief in our brand, and for making City their vehicle of choice.”


Bermaz Auto Previews 2022 Mazda MX-30 In Malaysia - 199km range

During an exciting iftar session yesterday, Bermaz Auto previewed the Mazda MX-30 to the motoring media, introducing Mazda's first and only EV currently to Malaysia. Price is expected to be below RM200k

The 2022 Mazda MX-30 is expected to be launched locally in the last quarter of the year according to  Dato Sri Ben Yeoh, Executive Chairman, Bermaz Auto.

He explained that Bermaz had been testing the 2022 MX-30 for the last two and a half months and will continue with testing before launching it to the public. He also added that they put the MX-30 through severe conditions as they wanted to analyse how Malaysia's high heat and humidity would affect the battery's limits and degradation. "By testing it in high humidity as well as high gradients of up to 17%, we are able to manage expectations when it comes to the vehicle's driving range."

The Mazda MX-30's design is based on what Mazda calls "Human Modern", a new method of expression for Mazda's Kodo design philosophy.

Bermaz Auto's Executive Chairman, Dato Sri Ben Yeoh also explained that the MX-30 is not built for EV enthusiasts who want an all-out performance EV. The MX-30 is more of run around town vehicle, suitable for small families, housewives, and senior citizens who do not want a high-maintenance vehicle and are lazy to visit the petrol kiosk for refills. With a wallbox at home, replenishing the range on the MX-30 just requires plugging in.

Mazda MX-30 Specifications

The 2022 C-segment SUV, Mazda MX-30 is only available in one variant with the below specifications.

e-Skyactiv,143hp/ 271Nm single electric motor

35.5kWh battery

199 kilometres of range

While the range is not especially impressive and limiting for those with longer commutes, the 2022 MX-30 should still work perfectly as a city car where long distances are rarely covered in one trip. And the benefit of a smaller battery in this setting is reduced charging time, allowing the MX-30 to be more easily and quickly topped off at urban stopovers should the need arise.

On top of a faster charging time, due to the lightweight nature of the Mazda EV, buyers can expect lesser maintenance as the lightweight vehicle does not wear down tyres and brakes as fast due to the weight of a bigger battery pack unlike bigger and more performance-oriented EVs.

A range-extender version of the 2022 MX-30 was Mazda's answer to
range anxiety
 but that variant will not be available in Malaysia. The range-extender MX-30 works by allowing a small Wankel rotary engine to act as a generator to replenish the battery charge levels while on the move.

Mazda MX-30 Dimensions

The Mazda MX-30 comes in at:

Length: 4,395mm

Width: 1,795mm

Height: 1,555mm

Wheelbase: 2,655mm

This means that the MX-30 slots in between the
Kona EV
 (wheelbase 2600mm) and the
Volvo XC40 P8
 (wheelbase 2702mm). For comparison purposes the wheelbase of the very popular
Hyundai IONIQ 5
 is 3000mm and the incoming
Kia EV6
 is 2900mm.

MX-30 Exterior

In terms of its exterior design, the high-riding electric vehicle is a cross between a compact SUV and coupe with that slanted roof being a defining feature. Without a front grille required for cooling in the way, designers were truly free to express Kodo design as intended - and you can see here how clean and fluid the lines are with this 2022 MX-30

Interestingly, the 2022 MX-30 also incorporates a couple of features from Mazda's previous performance coupe, the RX-8, namely its ‘suicide’ style rear-hinged doors.

Interior of the 2022 MX-30

The interior of the MX-30 is quite a departure from the Mazda's we know and love - first in the form of recycled materials helping to lower the carbon footprint, and the second being a fairly large overhaul to the dashboard design and layout compared to current Mazda models.

The concept of "bathing in oneness" courtesy of the floating console gives the
Mazda MX-30 a distinctive and elegant cabin silhouette.

Make no doubt, it looks the part and is the part, especially with the
eco-friendly material
s
like
vegan leather and the environmentally sourced cork in use. Tasteful if we had to sum it up in one word.

Charging Time for the Mazda MX-30

The charging time on a Type 2 charger from 0-100% using an AC 3-pin plug will take you 12 hours on 3kW while a 6.6kW wall box will bring charging time down to 5 hours.

On a CCS2 40kW DC fast charger a 0% to 80% charge will only take 36 minutes. Just in time for that cup of coffee.

Mazda at current has no plans to build a charging network or infrastructure in Malaysia.

Safety Features of the 2022 Mazda MX-30

The Mazda MX-30 will come with the below safety features as standard:

Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)

Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD)

Brake Assist (BA)

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

Traction Control System (TCS)

Price and Warranty

Bermaz Auto is currently working on a package to price the MX-30 below the RM200k threshold mark. As for warranty, Mazda is also working on providing the typical 5-year warranty like most Mazdas in Malaysia but with the option to extend the warranty beyond the 5-year period.

According to Yeoh, the extended warranty can help extend the lifespan of the vehicle as a battery swap will probably take place after the first five years. He said that most EV batteries deteriorate after five years which is why they are looking to present this option to buyers.

The 2022 MX-30 is the Hiroshima-based automaker’s first stab at an EV that
first made its debut at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show
 and we look forward to its launch and eventual test drive when it makes landfall here in Malaysia.

With the impending arrival of the
Kia EV6
, together with the MX-30, it's looking to be an exciting few months ahead for Bermaz Auto.


Honda Civic e:HEV RS officially launched - RM166,500

Honda Malaysia has officially launched the 2022 Honda Civic e:HEV RS variant for the Malaysian market.

With bookings already opened since last month, the new Honda Civic hybrid now sits at the very top of the Honda Civic offering in the country with great overall specs as well as that very interesting i-MMD powertrain.

2.0-litre Atkinson Cycle + i-MMD = 184PS & 315Nm

For the price that you're paying for the new Honda Civic e:HEV RS, what you'll get is the a fine-looking Honda Civic FE exterior paired with the newly-developed 2.0-litre non-aspirated Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine that produces 143PS and 189Nm of torque. But that's just for the ICE engine.

When paired with the Honda i-MMD dual electric motor setup, the new Honda Civic e:HEV RS produces 184PS and 315Nm of torque. Compared to the non-hybrid Honda Civic RS version, the Civic e:HEV produces an extra 2PS and 75Nm of torque.

This powertrain comes ready with an 'E-CVT' or Electric Continuous Variable Transmission) that not only helps to handle all that power and torque, but when driven sensibly, the Honda Civic e:HEV RS can achieve a very respectable 25km for every litre of petrol.

With this latest Honda i-MMD setup in the new Honda Civic hybrid model, we can confidently say through personal experience that it can and will smoke the non-hybrid Honda Civic RS in a drag race.

Exterior - Honda Civic E:HEV RS

Looking at the outside, the Civic e:HEV can be differentiated via a few key cues. At the front end, there's the Honda logo with a blue highlight to indicate that it's a hybrid as well as a sliver of chrome mounted on top of the front grille.

From the sides, you'll notice its 18-inch dual-tone rims (single-tone for the non-hybrid Honda Civic RS) as well as more chrome strips on the window lines and door handles. The rear ties everything together with the same Honda logo with blue highlights, a single exhaust, and an e:HEV badge.

Interior - Full TFT screen & wireless charger

Step inside the cabin and you'll be greeted with a nine-inch centre display audio unit with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A fully-digital 10.2-inch TFT instrument cluster display helps with all the driving info for the driver.

Other notable specs include a Qi wireless charger, RS-exclusive red stitching, Honda Smart Key Card, black suede/synthetic leather seats, and the most complete Honda Sensing package that includes (Honda LaneWatch & Honda Connect included):

Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS)

Lead Car Departure Notification System (LCDN) *new*

Road Departure Mitigation (RDM)

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

Low Speed Follow (LSF)

Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS)

Lane Departure Warning (LDW)

Forward Collision Warning (FCW)

Auto High Beam (AHB)


2023 Honda Civic and City Hatchback price increase: The effects of the weakening ringgit is taking shape

Honda Malaysia has announced a price increase for two more of its popular models, the Civic FE and City hatchback, for 2023.

The increase is attributed to the weakening value of the Malaysian ringgit. While
the Honda HR-V also experienced a price hike
, the Civic FE and City hatchback were not spared.

Honda Civic

The price adjustment for 2023 only affects three out of the four models offered by Honda Malaysia.The price of the range-topping Civic e:HEV RS remains unchanged at RM166,500

Civic 1.5L E now has a price tag of RM131,900, which is RM1,200 higher than its previous price of RM130,700.

The 1.5 V now has a price tag of RM144,900, which is also RM1,200 higher than its previous price of RM143,700.

The 1.5L RS now has a price tag of RM151,900, which also commands an extra RM1,200 than its previous price of RM150,700.

These prices are on-the-road, excluding insurance.

City Hatchback

The 1.5L S now costs RM78,900 > previously RM78,600.

The 1.5L E variant is priced at RM86,900 > previously RM86,600

The 1.5L V is now priced at RM91,900 > previously RM91,600,

The 1.5L V Sensing at RM95,900 > previously RM95,600.

These prices are on-the-road without insurance.

It's important to note that despite the price increases, there have been no changes to the specifications of the City hatchback and Civic models. The price adjustments are solely due to the fluctuating currency exchange rate.

While customers may feel the impact of these price increases, Honda Malaysia assures that the quality and features of the Civic FE and City hatchback remain unchanged. These vehicles continue to offer their respective impressive features and specifications without any compromises.

As the automotive industry navigates economic fluctuations, Honda Malaysia remains committed to providing its customers with reliable and high-quality vehicles. The price adjustments reflect the current market conditions, and Honda Malaysia aims to ensure a sustainable business while delivering vehicles that meet customers' expectations.


Crazy Money For A Honda Civic EK9 – The RM 303,480 Example

Hondas go for some pretty insane money, but lately we’ve seen some ridiculous pricing – especially for the rare Type R variants.

When it comes to collecting cars, you think of items like classic Porsches and Ferraris, or perhaps even the odd Alfa Romeo. With the exception of top-tier Japanese performance cars from the 90s – the Toyota Supra, Honda NSX, Nissan GT-R and so on – you don’t expect Japanese models to command much money in the second hand market, or for there to be much of a following.

And that’s where you’re dead wrong, because
Honda
 models seem to be the most highly sought after vehicles and the highest priced vehicles when it comes to those kept in great condition. Even the parts for Honda models command extremely high prices, and that’s before we delve into specialty aftermarket components. Expect to pay five figures for a special Spoon Sports instrument cluster with a tachometer that runs to over 10,000 rpm.

The latest bit of news to break is the story of a Honda Civic EK9 Type R that went for a staggering JPY 7,640,000 – or RM 303,480. That is absolutely mental money, considering these cars go for between RM 100,000 to RM 150,000 for a really clean example on our home shores. The majority of the EK-generation Hondas that you see here are base models that have been converted, hence why their prices hold at between RM 30,000 to RM 60,000.

This particular example commanded such an exceptionally high price because of the condition. It was naturally at a Japanese auction – perhaps one of the few places you can find a truly unmolested example – and had only racked up 2,549 kilometres of usage over the 20 odd years of its lifespan. The interior looks amazingly immaculate, and while the paint could use a little bit of a polish and wax, it looks otherwise intact.

We’re not saying you should start buying up Hondas to hoard and hope for price explosions in the next few years, but there is definitely value in owning or driving one of these models at some point in your life. Hondas of the 90s and earlier possess some truly amazing ride and handling qualities thanks to their unique, and fairly complex, suspension geometry and chassis design. It is something that is mind boggling even by today’s standards, and if you can brave the cost of ownership you will be rewarded for your perseverance and patience.


All-New 2023 Toyota Vios Teased For Thailand - Sleek New Design, Interior, DNGA Platform?

There’s an
all-new version of the Toyota Vios on the horizon
 that’s slated for an early August launch in Thailand where it’ll be known as the Yaris Ativ. Since it, codename D29A, should be arriving in Malaysia before long, here’s what we can look forward to.

First of all there’s a new shape, evident from the teaser image Toyota Thailand has released. The exterior now carries a more sloping roofline that with a C-pillar buttress that extends almost to the very tip of the boot lid.

2023 Toyota Vios - Coming to Malaysia soon?

The shade of blue seen on this very dimly lit photo does also remind us of the Celestite Grey Metallic
found on the Corolla Cross Hybrid
, though we’re pretty confident that we’ll find the usual fare of carried-over naturally aspirated 1.5-litre VVT-i four-cylinder petrol.

Specifically, we’d be unsurprised if the 1.5-litre 2NR-FE unit will be called up for duty again, boasting the familiar 107PS and 140Nm sent to the front wheels via a CVT. However, reports out of Thailand suggest that a smaller capacity 1.2-litre petrol will be offered as a more budget-oriented engine option, though it’s doubtful that we’ll see this in Malaysia.

2023 Toyota Vios - Possible powertrains?

Still, there is the possibility of a 1.5-litre Dynamic Force 3-cylinder unit being paired with Toyota’s series hybrid tech as already seen in the Japan-spec Toyota Aqua (
or Prius C
) as it’s known elsewhere. In those applications, it generates a combined output of
116PS
 and would be a strong contender against the Honda City RS equipped with their e:HEV powertrain.

Up front, there’s a fairly big grille element that integrates nicely into the LED headlights with an L-shaped daytime running light signature. Interestingly, Toyota has outfitted the Vios with sequential rear indicator lights.

2023 Vios vs 2022 Civic - Decisions, decisions...

Inside is probably just as much a departure as the exterior is from the Vios we know in showrooms today. You certainly can’t call it dated as we see a very minimal two-tone aesthetic that’s been most prevalent in cars from Mazda and, more recently,
the Honda Civic (FE)
.

Perched atop the centre stack is a prominent touchscreen infotainment unit that even has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support displayed on the home screen. The contrasting dark red leather extends to the centre armrest upholstery and seats, which are also given a quilted effect.

It looks considerably more upmarket than anything we’ve seen in Malaysia wearing a Vios or Yaris badge, and it could even sway prospective City buyers just based on the exterior and interior appeal alone.

A more curious possibility coming out of the rumour mill is the speculation that the all-new 2023 Vios is based on DNGA (Daihatsu New Global Architecture), such as that shared with the 2nd-generation Perodua Alza
and Perodua Ativa
.

This does bode well as we’ve known this vehicle platform to be very adept at maximising interior space and packaging, though we will miss any dynamic advantages lost over the fact that Toyota passed up
TNGA underpinnings
.

With the reveal confirmed for 9th August, we won’t have long to wait before all these questions are put to rest and a new set emerges to replace them such as:
(1) When is it coming to Malaysia?, and (2) How much will the new Vios be?


Volkswagen Launches Chinese New Year Promotion, Free 20-Point Safety Check And More

Ahead of the Chinese New Year festivities, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) Aftersales has launched a promotion to help you get your car in shape for the long drive back home. There's a free 20-point safety check, which is important preparation if you plan to take a long distance drive back to your kampung. This promotion will last from the 22nd of January to the 28th of February, 2018.
Customers who spend RM 800 or more at any Volkswagen Service Centre will benefit from exclusive merchandise as well. All Volkswagen Aftersales customers will also recieve a Chinese New Year goodie bag, while stocks last.
This Aftersales promotion is running concurrently with VPCM's "Leader of the Pack" Chinese New Year promotion, which offers cash rebates, "Liquid Gold" Petrol Card worth RM1,118 and the limited edition LEGO Volkswagen T1 Camper Van on the purchase of any Volkswagen car from now till the 28th of February 2018.
Sign up and test drive a Volkswagen today
here
.


Maserati Is Back, MC20 Wants To Feast On Supercar Blood

First of all, it’s well understood that Maserati has been hurting for a long time, so seeing an all-new model emerge from under all that gloom means hope for us all in a way, but the MC20 is merely the first car in a planned series in an overhauled line-up.

But that also means that the mid-engine supercar will have a lot of weight on its shoulders as the opening act for a once-great production house. Troubled times have hit Maserati of late, and they can only go so long using their trident logo as a makeshift crutch.

The past few years have been an almost non-stop sequence of minor facelifts, spec updates, and rather
pointless special editions
 that ultimately only served to prolong the life of some very dated cars - everything from the Gran Turismo to the Quattroporte severely lagged behind the competition.

Maserati has been in that exact situation before, often with more dire machinations going on behind the scenes to provide some justification for its lack of world-beating products. With backing by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, though, the Italian marque has had few excuses to stand on for such a poor showing in the highly competitive premium luxury category.

However, it’s clear now that the company has been biding its time, perhaps knowing full well their own weaknesses and set in motion a sweeping plan to dig themselves out from their slow slide into irrelevance.

The MC20 is the spearhead, just a taste of the coming attractions, laying the groundwork for new models such as the recently teased Grecale SUV (what about
the Levante
?) and a host of electric and hybrid variants made possible by new technology and platform innovations. Some ‘
PSA+FCA=Stellantis
’ influence might also be moving some cogs.

Either way, the new mid-engine supercar has us salivating. Not because of its looks but rather what it says about the future prospects of a truly revived Maserati. In total, a rollout of 13 new cars is expected over the next 3 years. They’re not playing around.

The MC20 is the first mid-engine Maserati in a very long time with the previous car being the MC12, a lightweight homologation special based on the Ferrari Enzo without so much as a rear window for convenience.

This singular focus on performance allowed the company to field the car in the FIA GT Championship racing series where it netted the factory team 2 constructors championships and 6 drivers’ championships. It was a rare beast too, with just 50 cars made for road use, so it’s unlikely any of us will ever see one being driven.

Luckily, there’s been no mention of the MC20 being a limited production model. Sure, volumes will be lower than the automaker’s other models, but crucially unbound from an arbitrary unit cap.

Like it or not, Maserati needs to accept the fact that they can no longer compete with the Paganis and Koenigseggs of the world. They need volume by means of more accessible luxury and sports cars, tinged with the glamour and mystique of the Maserati brand.

That said, where the MC12 had an undeniably strong visual presence, I am personally unconvinced by the MC20. Perhaps it’s the colour combination or the wheels or the specific way this car was photographed, but it just fails to deliver that certain sense of awe it needed to convey. It might be a different story in person, however.

We’ve been hearing rumbles about a new mid-engine Maserati since late 2018 and there was cause to be excited even back then. Disparate reports emerged of a fully carbon-fibre tub and a 3.0-litre V6 twin-turbocharged engine. Immediately my cynical side assumed it to be a repurposed version of Alfa Romeo’s 2.9-litre V6 bi-turbo in the Giulia and Stelvio Quadrifoglio.

Not so, says the company, insisting that the six-cylinder making its debut in the MC20 has been entirely developed in-house in Modena, Italy. Dubbed the Nettuno (Neptune), the unit develops a massive 621hp and 730Nm of torque, giving the rather compact supercar some serious performance chops right off the bat.

While we’re already quite used to turbocharged engines, and despite automaker’s inevitable migration to it, let’s have a moment of silence for the orchestral naturally aspirated Maserati V8s we’ve lost. For all the zings I’ve hurled at the GranTurismo and GranCabrio, the burbled snarl and enraged wail of its F136 was beyond criticism.

The engine is mated to an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission that delivers drive to the rear wheels with a mechanical limited slip differential in between as standard. Tipping the scales below 1,500kg thanks to that aforementioned carbon core structure and (mostly) aluminium body, the MC20 has an incredible power to weight ratio that enables a claimed 0-100km/h sprint time of just 2.9 seconds.

All signs point to the MC20 being extremely agile with all-round double wishbone suspension and all-wheel steering, but we won’t have much grasp of exactly how it stacks up against other cars until we see it in action. Intriguingly, in addition to a convertible variant, Maserati also says a fully electric version is coming in 2022.

The strict two-seater cabin is accessed through a pair of butterfly-hinged doors - something wholly new to the brand’s cars. Once inside, it’s clear that Maserati has sought to remove any unnecessary ornamentation or distraction that might impede the driving experience.

In place of a traditional gauge cluster we find a 10-inch LCD to accompany the identically sized infotainment display, surrounded by generous amounts of Alcantara and exposed carbon fibre weave. Clearly, the MC20 isn’t the last word in creature comfort, and it’s refreshing to see Maserati commit so fully to a no compromise super sports car.

Though the car has made its official premiere, albeit digitally over livestream, full production isn’t due to start until the end of the year with Maserati keenly accepting orders in the meantime. Deliveries are expected to start in early 2021, and we’ll keep you updated on its eventual debut in Malaysia.


All-New 2018 Toyota Harrier Deliveries Begin

UMW Toyota Motor, the authorised distributor of Toyota vehicles in Malaysia today announced that the first units of the all-new Toyota Harrier are now being delivered to customers.
Revealed at the 2017 Malaysia Auto Show
 last November, the Toyota Harrier is offered in two variants, both imported from Japan:
2.0T Premium - RM238,000 excluding insurance
2.0T Luxury - RM259,900 excluding insurance
This latest-generation Harrier also comes with a 5-year warranty with unlimited mileage. This includes availability of genuine replacement parts for this latest generation.
Powering the Harrier is a 2.0-litre direct injected twin-scroll turbine turbocharged engine that produces 231 PS and 350 Nm of torque, paired to a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission driving the front wheels. However, no all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive variant is available.
Standard features include:
Triple-projector LED headlights
Sequential indicators
LED fog lamps
18-inch dual-tone alloy wheels
Nappa leather upholstery
Height-adjustable powered tailgate
Panoramic sunroof
Power-adjustable front seats with memory
Available in a Toyota model for the first time in Malaysia, the Harrier comes with the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) Package, a suite of Active Safety systems which includes Pre-Crash System, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping System, Lane Departure Alert and Adaptive High-Beam System.
This is on top of the 7 airbags, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRC), Hill-start Assist Control (HAC), Emergency Stop Signal, Electronic Parking Brake + Auto Brake Hold, and Parking Sensors with Reverse Camera.
“We are encouraged by the response to the introduction of the all-new Toyota Harrier in Malaysia. As the earlier generations were intended only for the Japanese domestic market, we were unable to sell them officially. However, Toyota Motor Corporation has now decided to offer it outside Japan and we are among the first countries to sell it officially,” said Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor.


VIDEO: Thieves Smash Through MPV Window In Mosque Parking Lot

Lots of things can happen to your car, either when you’re inside or elsewhere. For this unlucky
Toyota

Estima
 owner, leaving some valuables visible on the front passenger seat made it prey to some thieves on the prowl.
The incident took place at a mosque (in Uda, Johor) parking lot during Friday prayers. When the area was empty and the owners inside, the thieves began looking around. There were at least two criminals involved: one doing the searching, and the other seated in the Proton Waja on standby for a quick getaway once the deed was done.
It looked like the thief used a rock or a heavy object of some kind that he threw at the Estima’s window. Upon it breaking, he quickly reached inside and grabbed the item – looks like a purse or something similar.
He then took a few rushed steps toward the Waja, and they both sped away. In hindsight, at least the owner got back his vehicle with relatively minimal damage. Some situations end
with vehicles being stolen
 and their owners never seeing them again. After all, it is much easier than you might think to disable most alarm systems,
one demonstration made it look like child's play
.
Despite your vehicle being parked in a seemingly safe area, the truth is that thieves don’t discriminate and will attempt to break into it no matter where it’s parked. Please don’t leave valuables in your car, and especially don’t tempt fate by
carelessly
leaving valuables in plain view.
A little while ago, we compiled a guide to the
six crimes most commonly afflicting road users
. If you need a little refresh on how to keep safe on the roads and the criminals at bay, it's a good place to start.

Sebentar tadi di masjid uda... Harap next week jumaat dapat lah org ni...
Posted by
Ibrahim Mosar
 on Friday, August 14, 2015


Ops Lejang – JPJ Sasar Motosikal Guna Nombor Pendaftaran ‘Fancy’

Masih ramai pengguna motosikal yang dikesan tidak mematuhi peraturan penggunaan nombor pendaftaran mengikut spesifikasi yang ditetapkan oleh
Jabatan Pengangkutan Jalan (JPJ).

Menerusi laporan Harian Metro, perkara tersebut dibuktikan apabila majoriti daripada golongan mat motor ini ditahan menerusi operasi
Ops Lejang
 yang dilaksanakan JPJ Negeri Sembilan di susur masuk Plaza Tol Senawang, baru-baru ini.

Masih Ramai Guna No Plat 'Fancy'

Rata-rata daripada mereka yang ditahan menerusi Ops Lejang telah dikesan menggunakan
nombor pendaftaran
fancy
 yang terlampau kecil atau sukar untuk dikenal pasti angka atau huruf sebenar.

Menurut Pengarah JPJ Negeri Sembilan, Hanif Yusabra Yusuf, kesalahan ini boleh dikenakan
denda tidak melebihi RM2,000 atau penjara tidak melebihi enam bulan atau kedua-duanya
 mengikut Seksyen 119 (2) Akta Pengangkutan Jalan 1987.

Tambahnya, pihak JPJ dengan kerjasama Agensi Anti Dadah Kebangsaan (AADK), polis dan Majlis Bandaraya Seremban (MBS) bagi menjalankan operasi yang memberi tumpuan terhadap penunggang motosikal bagi mengekang aktiviti rempit.

Sebanyak 138 motosikal diperiksa dan kesemuanya diambil tindakan atas pelbagai kesalahan termasuk ubahsuai ekzos dan penggunaan nombor plat fancy, manakala sebanyak lima motosikal telah disita.

"Tindakan mereka juga seolah cuba mengaburi mata pihak berkuasa jika dikesan melakukan kesalahan seperti melanggar lampu isyarat atau melakukan aksi berbahaya," katanya.

Mengulas lanjut, beliau berkata, pemilik berdaftar juga akan diambil tindakan dengan pengeluaran Notis Larangan Penggunaan Kenderaan (PG1).

"Mereka diberi masa selama 10 hari untuk hadir pemeriksaan di mana-mana JPJ berdekatan bagi memastikan kenderaan itu dibuat tindakan pembetulan dengan menukar nombor pendaftaran yang mengikuti spesifikasi," katanya.

*Sumber: JPJ

Kepentingan Menggunakan No Plat Ikut Spesifikasi

Jelas Hanif, ramai yang beranggapan penggunaan nombor pendaftaran yang mengikut spesifikasi tidak penting dari segi keselamatan jalan raya. Jika berlaku kemalangan, ia akan menyusahkan pihak berkuasa untuk melakukan siasatan sama ada pemilik motosikal yang melanggar atau dilanggar.

Dalam operasi itu, pihak berkuasa menemui pelbagai jenis nombor plat yang menyalahi peraturan. Ada yang berkilat, ada hanya sebesar dua jari, malah ada juga pemilik motosikal yang berani menunggang tanpa mempamerkan langsung nombor pendaftaran.

Sebelum ini, JPJ telah memberikan lampu hijau kepada orang ramai untuk
melaporkan
 mana-mana kenderaan yang memasang nombor pendaftaran mengelirukan, kabur atau fancy.

Kalau anda nampak mana-mana kenderaan yang melanggar peraturan tersebut, anda boleh laporkan kepada JPJ dengan cara seperti:

Tangkap gambar nombor pendaftaran kereta sebagai bukti

Rakaman video daripada dashcam kereta juga diterima

Sediakan butiran lain seperti lokasi dan waktu kejadian

Salurkan aduan berkenaan menerusi alamat e-mel
aduantrafik@jpj.gov.my

*Kredit foto: JPJ


Chery Posts Best-Ever January With 108k Units Sold, Poised For Malaysian Entry

2022 is off to
a sweet start for Chery
, that other successful mass market automaker from China, who announced the company had sold nearly 108,000 units in January (their most successful one ever) with 26,900 of that being to export markets.

It represents a pretty significant year-on-year increase of 20% from the perspective of overall sales but a 60.9% YoY increase for exports.

The automaker continues to see strong demand from Russia where Chery’s market presence has persisted for 17 years, bolstered by their best-selling Tiggo 7 Pro, a 5-seater C-segment SUV. For last month, it again remained their largest export market with a 47% year-on-year increase from January 2021.

Their export performance also saw positive growth in other markets such Chile, Brazil, and Egypt. Importantly,
Malaysia is soon to be added to that list
, making us among the first of Southeast Asian countries to be a major focus to their international expansion plans.

In addition to their existing models such as the aforementioned Tiggo 7 Pro as well as the B-segment Tiggo 2, Tiggo 3X, Tiggo 8, Tiggo 5X, Malaysia is likely to be the first
to receive the brand new Omoda 5
, a model that was previewed in near-finished guise at last year’s Guangzhou Motor Show.

Full production examples of the high tech SUV has only just started in Wuhu, China, with priority export markets (including ourselves and Australia) slated to make landfall in mid-2022.

Upon arrival and local launch, the Omoda 5 should be a formidable rival to segment-straddling compact SUVs such as the Toyota Corolla Cross and
incoming 3rd-generation Honda HR-V
.


The Volkswagen Beetle Is 80 Years Old, And You Get An RM 5,000 Rebate For It

80 years ago, the Volkswagen Beetle was born. And it's been a hit ever since, even up to this day, and possibly with an electric, rear-wheel drive future in mind. But for the here and now, Volkswagen's current generation Beetle has seen numerous iterations and limited-run models to cement its place in the legacy of the Beetle name.
This Saturday, 17th March 2018, Volkswagen is having a nationwide dealer celebration, from 11 am to 5 pm - for one day only. Those who attend will get to test drive the Beetle Sport 1.2 TSI, and will also stand a chance to win a lucky draw price of a LEGO Creator Expert Volkswagen Beetle at the dealership.
The Beetle Sport is priced from RM147,888 and is available in 6 colours: Bottle Green, Pure White, Tornado Red, Blue Silk, Dark Bronze and Habanero Orange. The Beetle comes with paddle shifters, cruise control, 2-zone Climatronic air-conditioning system, 6.5” Composition media with touch screen display with App-Connect, leather trim “Vienna” seats with front seat lumbar support, bi-xenon headlamps and LED daytime running lights. It is powered by a 1.2-litre turbocharged TSI engine with an output of 105PS and 175 Nm of torque paired with a 7-speed DSG.
Customers can enjoy a rebate of RM5,000 for a Beetle, as well as cash rebates of up to RM15,000 on other Volkswagen models. All Volkswagen models registered from the 1st of January 2018 also come with a 3-year (or 45,000km, whichever comes first) free maintenance package.