Tan Chong Euro Cars Provides 150 Renault Capturs For GoCar

GoCar is just one of a few providers for car rental services, but it has just gotten a large leg up on the competition with the addition of 150 Renault Captur crossovers to its fleet, courtesy of Tan Chong Euro Cars (TCEC). This brings the total number of cars in GoCar's fleet to 450, allowing for easier access for the users of the service and more variety in vehicle option.
For now, TCEC has provided the first 50 units, with the remaining 100 units to be delivered over the coming months. Through the GoCar sharing service, the Renault Captur is offered with a rate of RM18.90 per hour, RM189 daily, RM1,323 weekly or RM5,670 for a month.
To access the service, one simply downloads the GoCar mobile application and register sas a member. Upon verification, members can easily make bookings as well as lock, unlock, and start the Captur via the GoCar mobile app. Extensions for reservations can also easily be managed via the app.
In conjunction with the Renault Captur joining its fleet, GoCar is offering Malaysians the opportunity to #TakeCaptur for a road trip between now until 31 December 2018. Valid for new members only, the promotion offers RM30 off the Captur, with a minimum booking of 10 hours, through the special promo code ‘GOCARCAPTUR’.


Mazda donates RM330,000 to Turkey & Syria earthquake disaster relief

The recent earthquake tragedies in Turkey and Syria have taken over 47,000 lives and
Mazda
 has stepped in with a ¥10 million (around RM329,000) donation to help out.

Mazda Motor Corporation has extended its condolences to all of those affected by the major disaster that is currently affecting these two countries. The Japanese Red Cross Society is currently there to lend a helping hand, which is also where the donation will be provided to those who need them.

Official statement from Mazda Motor Corporation

*Image credit: Japanese Red Cross Society

Below is the official statement released by Mazda Motor Corporation regarding the major disaster that struck both Turkey and Syria.

Support for those affected by the recent earthquake in Turkey and Syria

We are deeply saddened by the terrible loss of life following the recent earthquake in Turkey and Syria and extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives as well as our sincerest sympathies to everyone affected by this major disaster.

Mazda Motor Corporation has decided to donate ¥10 million to help support the affected regions and survivors of the earthquake. The donation will be provided via the Japanese Red Cross Society.

Mazda operations in the neighboring countries of Turkey and Syria are also making financial contributions to registered charitable organizations to support the humanitarian efforts taking place in the affected areas.

It is our earnest hope that the affected areas of Turkey and Syria are soon able to begin the process of recovery.


Perlumbaan Drag Tiada Kelulusan MAM, Litar Gong Badak Hanya Untuk Motosikal

Motorsports Association of Malaysia (MAM) telah mengesahkan bahawa acara perlumbaan
Drag Battle of The Kings (BOTK) 2022
yang berlangsung di
Litar Gong Badak, Terengganu
 pada 15 Oktober lalu tidak mendapat kelulusan MAM.

Menurut MAM, segala acara yang dikawal-selia pihaknya dijalankan dengan mematuhi garis panduan am dan teknikal yang ditetapkan oleh pihak
FIA
dan FIM berkaitan dengan:

Penganjur

Kemudahan

Perserta

Kenderaan

Perlumbaan Tiada Kelulusan, Litar Gong Badak Hanya Untuk Motosikal

Memandangkan sukan permotoran merupakan sukan yang berbahaya, penting untuk semua pihak yang ingin menyertai sukan ini untuk mematuhi segala kaedah, peraturan dan protokol yang ketat untuk memastikan tahap keselamatan tertinggi, meningkatkan persaingan serta memberi peluang kepada pelumba dan penonton menikmati perlumbaan tersebut.

Malangnya, acara Drag BOTK 2022 tidak diluluskan dan dikawal selia oleh pihak MAM. Tambah MAM, pihaknya tidak pernah memberi kebenaran untuk berlumba drag di litar tersebut kerana bagi tahun 2022, Litar Gong Badak hanya dibenarkan oleh MAM untuk acara dua roda iaitu Petronas Malaysian CubPrix dengan keperluan keselamatan tambahan.

Pihak kementerian Belia & Sukan (KBS) dan MAM telahpun berbincang berkenaan spesifikasi kemudahan perlumbaan drag yang diluluskan oleh pihak FIA dan FIM. Spesifikasi-spesifikasi tersebut adalah untuk memastikan kemudahan penyelenggaraan yang rendah serta tahap keselamatan yang tinggi.

Perbaiki Tahap Keselamatan Litar

MAM juga telah dijemput oleh Kerajaan Negeri Terengganu bagi meneliti kes kemalangan maut yang berlaku tempoh hari untuk membincangkan dengan lebih lanjut mengenai keperluan memastikan tahap keselamatan litar diperbaiki bagi mengelakkan kejadian sama berulang.

Pihak MAM turut amat berduka cita di atas kemalangan maut yang berlaku tempoh hari dan mengucapkan takziah kepada keluarga arwah. Dalam pada itu, MAM akan terus mempromosikan acara-acara yang dikawal selia pihaknya untuk menjadikan
sukan permotoran
 lebihi selamat dari segi semua disiplin di dalam Sukan Permotoran.


GALLERY: 2015 Mercedes-Benz AMG Super Convoy Tours Johor, Melaka, KL

Mercedes
-AMG’s most recent introduction of compact AMG vehicles have taken the globe by storm. As one of their fastest-growing models in the line-up today, the “baby” 45 AMGs come in four shapes to date (A-, CLA-, GLA and CLA Shooting Brake), and boast the world’s most powerful mass-produced 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, which has played a massive role to the car’s overall appeal.
Compact, cool, and an AMG, the phenomenon is no different here: we ourselves run into an
A 45 AMG
 or
CLA 45 AMG
 almost every day in our nation’s capital.
Last weekend, 42 AMG owners from across the country gathered together for a drive that would mark the largest Mercedes-AMG drive we’ve seen here yet. The convoy would take them from Johor, where seven participants lived, to Melaka (another 2) and back to KL, where a majority of 33 AMG owners reside.
Needless to say, the participants enjoyed the ride, with a founding member of the group, Ahmad Risdan, sharing:
“The event was a success for everyone, especially the committee member who had put lots of effort in organizing the event. There was never a formal meeting done apart from the discussions over the phone and social networks – the committee mostly consists of members from KL, Melaka and JB.
“We are also glad that the participants were very pleased with the event, especially when after all this time, a lot of them have never really met each other in person. One of the participants who is based in Dubai flew the day before just to join the TT and fly back on the same day in the evening.
“It was a good gathering, as if at a normal “The Tarik” or “TT,” except that it was done in a very big group this time. We consider it as “objective complete,” managing to get such a big group together and sharing their stories about what we think is one of the best cars ever produced by Mercedes and AMG. For now, we're aiming to host the largest AMG convoy in the world."
The AMG 45 Club, as they call themselves, will be looking to organise another drive before the end of this year, and if you plan on joining them with your AMG, all you need to do is to sign up for the AMG Private Lounge, and they’ll be in touch.
In the meantime, do enjoy the photo gallery snapped by Adam Photography. Else, you know where to
shop for your AMG model
.


Anthony Loke: One theory test to rule them all, no need for two separate tests

Antony Loke is trying to change the driving and riding test system, where you will only have to take one theory test to obtain both licenses at the same time.

Instead of having many different theory tests, theory examinations for motorcycle and car driving licences may be standardised soon to help ease the burden of the people.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke said some members of the public have told him that they had to go for a theory examination for their motorcycle licence, and repeat the same process for their car driving licence, according to a report in The Star.

This is actually the rule, no matter how silly it sounds, as under the existing protocol, those who want to obtain a motorcycle licence and a car licence at the same time must complete two theory examinations.

“This is unlike some time ago when we could just complete the theory examination once for both licences."

“I think we can simplify this to lessen the people’s burden,” he said during a 988 FM radio interview on Monday."

The new theory test examination will contain 70 multiple-choice questions for those who want to obtain both licences at the same time, with a minimum of 59 questions answered correctly, but for those who are just applying for a single license, the test will have 50 multiple choice questions, with a minimum passing grade of 84%, or 42 questions answered correctly.

Loke also took the time to mention that there will soon be an announcement about the time validity of the renewed driver’s licence, as he wants the government to

increase it to 10 years from the current maximum time of 5 years.


Fuel Price Update: 14 - 20 Dec - Drop For Petrol And Diesel

Good news for those wanting to refuel their cars, as the Ministry of Domestic Trade, Cooperatives, and Consumerism (KPDNKK) has announced new prices for petrol and diesel.
Starting from tomorrow, prices for petrol and diesel will see a drop.
Below are the new prices:
RON95 – RM2.25 per litre (down 4 sen from RM2.29)
RON97 – RM2.52 per litre (down 5 sen from RM2.57)
Diesel – RM2.20 per litre (down 1 sen from RM2.21)


Geely Drops More GE11 EV Details – Pop Out Door Handles

Set for a Q1 2019 debut in China, the new Geely GE11 will mark the company’s latest foray into electric vehicles (EVs).
Just a couple of days ago, Geely just released a few official teaser photos of the GE11, which gives us a pretty good look at the new EV.
From the photos, it appears that Geely could be offering more than one variant of the GE11, as the car in the teaser photo has an array of front parking sensors plus a front camera, while an earlier leaked version of the GE11 does not have any of those. In addition to that, the wheel design of both models also differ. Another possible hint is the size of the sunroof, as the allegedly lower spec variant of the GE11 has a smaller sunroof.
Also new on the GE11 is Geely’s emblem, which is now finished in a rather classy-looking shade of silver. The new emblem could be exclusive to Geely’s range of EV models.
Continuing on the exterior of the GE11, the upcoming EV sedan also gets pop out door handles, which sits flush with the door panel when not in use. According to the post by Geely, there is a proximity sensor that triggers the door handle to pop out when the driver is nearby.
Moving inside, the GE11 features a relatively straightforward interior, with a large centre display, presumably for infotainment duties. Unlike other recent Geely models, the interior colour scheme of the GE11 features a lot of light grey materials, giving the cabin a rather pleasant atmosphere.
Speaking of atmosphere, Geely has also teased the full panoramic sunroof of the GE11, allowing passengers to enjoy an unobstructed view of the sky.
In terms of performance, the Geely GE11 is said to be powered by a 177 hp electric motor, which allows the sedan to hit a top speed of 150 km/h.


Hyundai Creta & Stargazer get ASEAN NCAP ratings - Malaysia CKD incoming?

The Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS) recently posted about the latest Hyundai models to be assessed under the ASEAN NCAP program.

The new Hyundai SUV and MPV in question are the
Hyundai Creta
 as well as the
Hyundai Stargazer
. Both models performed well in the tests and have obtained a five-star ASEAN NCAP rating for the Hyundai Creta and four stars for the Hyundai Stargazer.

Are they coming to Malaysia, though?

While these two models are manufactured for the Indonesian market thanks to the new Hyundai Motor Manufacturing (HMMI) mega plant near Cikarang, the Creta in particular has been spotted just a few months back on Malaysian soil.

Hyundai has invested heavily in the local assembly efforts in Indonesia and Malaysia's own Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors reckons that our very own CKD program will increase in the near future. Since the Creta is already built as a right-hand-drive model in Indonesia, the CKD assembly kit might make sense price-wise to bring it into the Malaysian market and assemble at the Inokom plant in Kulim, Kedah.

What about the Stargazer?

As for the seven-seater Hyundai Stargazer MPV which was just launched in Indonesia back in July, there's still no indicator of its arrival here in Malaysia. If it does, it'll go up against other popular models within its segment such as the Mitsubishi Xpander, Honda BR-V, and Toyota Veloz to name a few.

It's already available in Thailand and if the pricing is right (if Hyundai-Sime Darby Motor can somehow get the CKD kit from the Indonesian plant), it might just work, especially for those who prefer an MPV that looks a bit futuristic.

Power-wise, both the Hyundai Creta and Stargazer are equipped with the same Smarstream G 1.5-litre NA four-cylinder engine which produces 115PS and 144Nm of torque. Interesting prospects to say the least, especially if we can get them to be locally assembled.


How Lexus Owned Customer Service, And Redefined Quality

In the realm of marketing, some brands own and control a particular narrative better than others. Coca Cola equates to soft drinks and Rolex to luxury timepieces.
BMW is best known for driving pleasure while Mercedes-Benz still commands luxury cachet but nobody does quality and customer care better than Lexus, and that’s not a claim made by Lexus or us, but by virtue of its unbroken record of 14 years of top honours across 31 years of J.D. Power Initial Quality Study (IQS) USA survey.
However IQS is not the most reliable indicator as it only considers a customer’s experience in the first 3 months of vehicle ownership. Results may vary greatly from one year to another as the survey’s methodology doesn’t make a clear distinction between complaints about something that’s actually broken versus complaints about a feature that customers don’t like.
The more reliable indicator is the J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS), which measures ownership experience at the third year. Lexus has since grabbed seven consecutive years of top honours at VDS surveys.
Whichever survey one choose to refer to, no other automotive brand has had a better track record for producing top quality cars with better customer service, year after year.
So how did Lexus go from an unknown brand that was launched only in 1989 to usurping Mercedes-Benz, an over 130-year old brand which, prior to Lexus, was the industry’s benchmark in quality?
Yes, few ever doubted the quality of Lexus cars in the first place. Even as a newbie to the premium car segment in 1989, everyone knew that this was a luxury brand from Toyota, the company that taught everyone - not just car companies, but even manufacturers of highly critical products like medical equipment - on how to ensure quality on a series production line. Toyota’s former engineer Taiichi Ohno’s philosophy on the Toyota Production System has been adopted by nearly everyone in the manufacturing world.
But it is one thing to build a defect-free Toyota Camry and quite another to challenge a Mercedes-Benz S-Class or a BMW 7 Series. What nobody saw coming was how Lexus was able to redefine the meaning of luxury, and took ownership of the words ‘quality’ and ‘customer service.’
The German brands operated under the ‘German engineering-first’ mindset, that their supposedly superior engineering trumps all and demands tolerance from their owners. If something in the car broke, it was because the car was very sophisticated and the customer needed to understand that and adapt to it. Customers were conditioned to accept that minor niggles with the car’s high-end technology was a necessity and small price to pay to be part of this elite club.
The German philosophy towards building the best car - of putting the ideals of engineering ahead of the needs of the driver - was unacceptable to the Japanese, who operate on a completely different philosophy called
omotenashi
, or Japanese hospitality.
For Lexus, the feeling of
omotenashi
must be present throughout - not just when sitting inside a Lexus but also outside of one; from the moment a customer drives into a Lexus showroom, how he/she is greeted, guided to a car park and to the entrance, served and attended to - it’s an all-encompassing philosophy.
Omotenashi was certainly put to the test from the moment the first batch of Lexus LS 400 were delivered to customers in the US, Lexus’ first market.
Dealers were reporting problems with the car’s cruise control, third brake light and battery clamp. The established German brands were observing with glee. For a brand that prided itself on quality, the problems were embarrassing.
Shortly after its birth, Lexus was already being put through a coming of age test.
The late Eiji Toyoda, the then Chairman of Toyota who pushed for the creation of Lexus, ordered an immediate announcement of a recall even though US regulations didn’t require a recall until deemed necessary by the regulators at National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
On the 1st of December, 1989, nearing Christmas and Lexus had to contact roughly 8,000 owners telling them that their new Lexus required some parts replacement. Lexus was particularly adamant for dealers to personally contact each owner before the recall letter reaches them. The company didn’t want them to hear the news from an impersonal letter.
An emergency conference call was held with all Lexus dealers, because the company believed that as front-liners, it was extremely important that the dealers were kept informed.
As they spoke, an unprecedented action plan was underway in Japan. Technical staff from Lexus’ headquarters in USA were already on their way to the dealers to explain the parts-replacement procedures. Over in Japan, plants were running at maximum capacity to produce the replacement parts. Lexus chartered special air freight carriers to fly the parts to the US, with planes leaving every hour.
Instead of requiring owners to drive to the service centres for repairs, Lexus dealers personally picked-up their cars, and left them with a loaner car, at no cost. There were also several owners living in Alaska and Lexus flew out a technician there to carry out the repairs on site. In some other less remote areas, Lexus technicians conducted the repairs at the owner's house.
Once all the repairs were completed, Lexus dealers returned the cars washed, filled with a tank of petrol, and in some cases, even left a small gift on the passenger seat, apologising for the inconvenience.
In the end, Lexus managed to replace the parts for 95 per cent of the cars involved in the recall. The only reason Lexus couldn't reach the remaining 5 per cent was because those cars were bought by competitor brands and had already been shipped out of the US or were already disassembled. It was later revealed that Mercedes-Benz had purchased several units of the Lexus and had it shipped to Germany for their own study.
Lexus' response shocked its competitors. Far from being ammunition against them, Lexus turned the tables around and used the recall to elevate itself to an almost cult-like status in the annals of customer care. Time magazine ran a story with the title, "Zen and the Art of Automobile Maintenance."
Lexus also understood the psychographics of its customers well. As a new luxury brand, the early buyers of Lexus were a very different group of people. Author Malcolm Gladwell, who would retell the story in his book ‘The Tipping Point,’ described early Lexus adopters as ‘mavens,’ car guys who understood cars very well and could see beyond the unproven brand. These wealthy and learned early adopters were often influencers in their own social circle, which were also likely to be from the high income crowd.
These ‘mavens’ would later serve as Lexus ambassadors, retelling their positive experience with Lexus customer service, and were instrumental in making Lexus the fastest growing luxury brand of that decade in USA.
The cost of the replacement was never made public, but whatever it was, it would've repaid itself many times over, as that response was pivotal in differentiating Lexus from its peers, living up to the Lexus Covenant.
Hung on the wall of every Lexus showroom is the Lexus covenant, a promise by Lexus that reads:


Pick of the week: Alfa Romeo 4C

The Alfa Romeo 4C is as much about a 21-gun salute to Alfa’s longstanding racing and road car heritage, as it is, a milestone of styling and technological renaissance for the brand itself.
The Italian carmaker with an illustrious yet checkered history spanning some 117-years, needed something special in the early-2000s, to reintroduce the brand and bolster interest in markets such as North America and Europe.
The forerunner to the Alfa Romeo 4C, the 8C Competizione
Then in 2008, the rare, high-dollar Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione was launched, it reignited the interest in the brand but sadly also meant that only the most discerning of Alfa-isti could experience the joys of a modern, thoroughbred Alfa Romeo.
Owners Fiat Chrysler Automotive (FCA), needed a more affordable sports car, in tune with the times (and regulations), which distilled the best the brand had to offer.
In 2013, the Alfa Romeo 4C was born.
Inspired by the Alfa Romeo Tipo 33 homologation cars of 1967, the 4C was imagined form the ground-up as an unbridled and uncompromising racing car for the road.
The platform is built from a mix of carbon fibre for the passenger cell, which is joined to an aluminium engine frame, even the beautiful bodywork if the 4C is made from composite materials. The extensive use of lightweight material means the Alfa 4C weighs just 895 kg, or around 545 kg lighter than its spiritual rival, the
Porsche Cayman
.
Mounted amidships is a 1.75-litre turbocharged, aluminium, four-cylinder engine that produces 240bhp at 6000rpm and 350Nm of torque between 2200rpm and 4250rpm. The engine is tacked to a six-speed dual-clutch transmission, with a Launch Control function, augmented through the Alfa D.N.A drive mode selector.
The 4C is capable of a 4.5 second 0-100km/h sprint, all the way to a top speed of 260km/h – proper sports car credentials.
Of course, there is currently no official importer for Alfa Romeo vehicles in Malaysia, so the only way to get your hands on an Alfa Romeo 4C is through a local recond car dealer. The ‘Rosso Alfa’ 4C you see here has been shipped in by luxury car dealer Nippon Autoworld Sdn Bhd.
Brought in from Japan, this superb Alfa Romeo 4C was produced in 2015, the car was specc-ed with the 18-inch 5-hole alloy wheels and black leather interior. The car has covered less than 2500km since new and purrs to life with no hesitance.
There are no visible signs of rough usage, as the leather seats and steering wheel look almost unused on the inside. On the outside, stone chips, which can be a tell-tale sign of enthusiastic driving, aren’t visible on the front bumper and side skirts.
The asking price starts at RM460,000, however, the friendly staff at Nippon Autoworld are more than happy to negotiate on the price, for serious buyers. Check out this Alfa Romeo 4C and other models available at Nippon Autoworld
here
.


Bridgestone Launches Ecopia EP300 Eco Tyres

Bridgestone Tyre Sales Malaysia has officially introduced it latest tyre in the Ecopia range, the Ecopia EP300. The EP300 replaces the EP200 (introduced in 2014), and boasts lower rolling resistance, enhanced wet grip characteristics and more consistent performance over the lifespan of the tyre. The Ecopia EP300 is designed for use in C-Segment cars.
The EP300 has been tested internally (according to UNECE-R83 and R101 tests) and claimed to improve the overall fuel efficiency of a vehicle thanks to an optimised compound improves rolling resistance and enhances wet handling characteristics.
A redesigned crown shape, referring to the mid-section of the tyres, also ensures a longer life of the thread pattern by spreading load forces more evenly across the tyre’s footprint, in addition to aiding wet handling and reducing rolling resistance.
A deeper lug depth on the tyre shoulder of the EP300 is designed to strengthen durability and increase wear resistance. The new tread design provides better control of tyre deformation which in turn helps tyre life through a uniform wear pattern.
The Ecopia EP300 is available in 13 different sizes, priced between RM180 and RM450. It's worthy to note, the largest tyre of the EP300 range, sized 215/55 R17 is made available with a four groove design, instead of the three for the rest of the EP300 range to improve water dispersion.
Ecopia EP300 tyres are manufactured at Bridgestone's facilities in Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia.


Review: 2017 Mazda 2 - Jinba Ittai Goodness

Let’s be honest. To some people, a car is nothing more than just mechanical and electrical parts assembled in a factory somewhere. The car, to them, is just an appliance, with neither soul nor passion concerned.
For the rest of us, however, a car is more than just a mode of transport, it is an extension of ourselves; an expression of our personalities. We take pride in our car knowing that our cars are more than just an appliance.
We love our cars knowing how special it makes us feel behind the wheel, making each and every trip feel special. As enthusiasts, we like to feel a deep connection with our vehicles. Mazda, notably, understands that relationship and calls it Jinba Ittai.
Although most may associate Jinba-Ittai with the popular MX-5 roadster, the essence of it is injected across Mazda's entire range of vehicles, including the humble little Mazda 2, a car that is Mazda's entry-level model, designed and engineered to compete against other budget-conscious B-segment models.
Specifications:
Price: RM92,886 (OTR without Insurance)
Engine: 1.5-litre, Inline-4 Transverse, Naturally-aspirated
Power: 114 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque: 148 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
Transmission: Six-Speed Automatic, FWD
Safety: 2 airbags, ABS, DSC, TCS, ISOFIX
Origin: Fully-imported from Thailand
Overview
This is the entry point into Mazda’s lineup. Prices for the Mazda 2 starts from RM87k, for which you are getting 16-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, smart keyless entry with push start button, Mazda Connect system with a 7-inch display, manual-type headlight leveling control and a heads-up display.
Like those LED headlights? They add RM6k to your final price. Additionally, variants equipped with the lovely LED headlights come with Auto Leveling Control.
With this current generation Mazda 2, Mazda has stopped relying on Ford's platform; instead, the car is now based on the company's own SkyActiv platform. Petrol and diesel engines from Mazda's SkyActiv powertrain family are available globally, but Malaysia is currently offered exclusively with the 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol with outputs of 114 hp and 148 Nm.
Exterior
Right off the bat, you’ll notice that the Mazda 2 we have here is not finished in the company’s signature Soul Red, but rather in a shade of blue Mazda calls Dynamic Blue Mica. While Soul Red may be the hero colour for the new Mazda 2, we reckon that Dynamic Blue Mica allows the Mazda 2 to stand out in a crowd.
Currently, the Mazda 2 is available in just one trim, High. This includes 16-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, daytime running lights, bulb-type rear lights and side mirrors with LED turn signals. Exterior equipment is identical for both the sedan and hatchback.
Interior
While Mazda may not have the financial capabilities like Honda or Toyota, the smaller company manages to outshine the competition when it comes to the interior of the 2.
The interior has been carefully designed and engineered to the extent that in a blind test, one would be hard pressed trying to differentiate the Mazda 2 from a premium saloon, thanks to the company’s extensive usage of high quality materials.
Soft touch materials can be found throughout the cabin, including a padded centre console that amplifies the premium feel of the cabin, a feature not found on the more expensive Mazda CX-5. Similar materials can also be found on the door trim.
Elsewhere, the Mazda 2 comes standard with a seven-inch infotainment system with MZD Connect. Coupled with the rotary selector, navigation through menus are a breeze. The system also did not stutter or suffer any issues, though the lack of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay could be a deal-breaker for some.
High quality materials aside, the 2 does lack storage space inside. Boot space is decent enough, but the rear seats does not seat flush with the boot floor, with a visible hump. Last but not least, the Mazda 2 is the only sub-RM100k new car to offer a heads-up display as a standard fitment. Good stuff.
Driving Experience
Behind the wheel, the Mazda 2 really shines. It is almost as if the 2 comes alive once the engine is started, as the entire car just encompasses around the driver, Jinna Ittai style. Its little 1.5-litre SkyActiv-G powerplant is eager to rev to its 6,500 rpm redline.
Coupled with a smooth shifting six-speed automatic transmission, the Mazda 2 is a really joy to drive. When the need arises to drive hard, the Mazda 2 continues to hold its own very well. The earlier-mentioned six-speed automatic is intelligent enough to hold gear until the driver eases off the organ-style pedal.
Once we got used to the little Mazda 2, we found ourselves constantly hitting the redline as the engine note and pull is really impressive for a small little engine.
Then there’s the handling. While the Mazda 2 may not be as agile as a Ford Fiesta around corners, the little Japanese hatchback certainly holds its own pretty well. The 2 remained planted no matter how we chucked it into corners.
The electric power steering may not offer oodles of road feedback of a hydraulic system, but in the case of the Mazda 2, we reckon that it serves its purpose well enough. For us, the steering was good enough that we did not have to second guess ourselves where the wheels were pointing. Weightage was also spot on.
Even in terms of high speed stability, the Mazda 2 continues to impress. We brought the car up to speeds that would land us a speeding ticket, yet the 2 remained surefooted. Impressive indeed.
Conclusion
Safety kit can be considered as the Mazda 2’s shortcoming, as it only comes with 2 airbags up front, unlike some of its rivals, which can be had with up to six airbags.
Airbag count aside, the faux carbon fibre trim is not the most eye pleasing trim out there, though we believe the upcoming Mazda 2 facelift will solve that.
While the Mazda 2 may not offer abundance of safety kit like the Honda Jazz or handling prowess of the Ford Fiesta, there is something remarkably different once you get behind the wheel of the car. More than just a soul this Mazda 2 has. It becomes an extension of the driver, allowing the driver to fully enjoy each and every journey behind the wheel.


Takata Recall: 80 Percent Of Honda Vehicles In Malaysia Completed

As of 29th June 2017, Honda Malaysia have completed 80.2 percent of their replacement activities for vehicles affected by the Takata front
driver
 airbag inflator recall. The completion rate of the Takata
passenger
 front airbag inflators is currently at 55.9 percent, while Honda Malaysia’s stock availability remains at 100 percent for both inflator systems.
Honda Malaysia will continue with the ongoing replacement activities at Shopping Mall hubs across Malaysia, with more venues being added periodically. The replacement activities at selected Petronas stations will continue operating as usual.
Shopping Mall hubs will provide further convenience to affected customers as it will be ongoing on every weekend in the month of July, beginning 8 July 2017.
Honda Malaysia stresses that replacement activities at selected Shopping Mall Hubs and Petronas stations do not require an advanced appointment, except for the
(FD2R) Honda Civic Type R
 model. Alternatively, customers may make an appointment at any authorised Honda Service Centre to avoid delays or setbacks.
Honda owners may visit the following locations for their Takata airbag inflator replacements.

Click to Enlarge
Customers are encouraged to bring their vehicles only to authorized Honda service centres, selected Shopping Mall Hubs and Petronas stations for the replacement of affected Takata front airbag inflators.


2015 BMW 3-Series Facelift Launched – New Engines and Features, Prices Largely Unchanged

BMW Malaysia has taken the wraps off the
facelifted range of their ever popular 3-Series sedan
. Prices for the new locally assembled 3-Series Facelift range are as listed below:
BMW 318i (Luxury Line): RM208,800
BMW 320i (Sport Line): RM238,800
BMW 320i M Sport: RM258,800
BMW 320d M Sport: RM268,800
BMW 330i M Sport: RM308,800
Subtle but Definitive Changes on the Surface
You would have to look hard to pick out the exterior facelift work, but it is there alright. The headlights are now all-LED items that look sharper and more intense. Its front apron receives broader side air intakes, whereas its taillights now feature LED lighting elements with a stylistic curve. BMW has also give the 320i, 320d, and 330i variants a sportier twin tailpipe setup.
On the inside, BMW says the 3-Series facelift have been given slight design touches with high-quality chrome accents on the controls and air-vent surrounds, and the addition of high-gloss surfaces along the top of the centre console. The centre console cupholders on the other hand feature a more convenient sliding cover rather than a removable panel.
Though its ‘blink-and-you-will-miss-it’ facelift work is minor on both its exterior and interior, the headlining changes here is its reworked engine line-up and new ConnectedDrive features.
New Engines, New Designations
The variant line-up for the facelift 3-Series now comprises of the 318i, 320i, 320d, and 330i, with the 318i replacing the 316i, and the 330i ousting the 328i. Though having said that the 3-Series facelift are now shoehorned with new ‘B-Series’ engines across the board.
318i – First Three-Cylinder 3-Series
With BMW adopting the B38 1.5-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, the 318i represents the first 3-Series to sport a 3-cylinder engine. The engine has a peak power output of 136hp and 220Nm, which enables it to sprint from 0 to 100km/h in 8.9 seconds, and yet deliver an impressive fuel consumption figure of 5.1L/100km.
320i and 330i – Features Brand New 2-litre Engine
Gone is the venerable N20 engines in the 320i and 328i, and instead BMW has introduced a new B48 2-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine for the 320i and 330i.
Though horsepower figures on the 320i remains the same at 184hp, torque figures have been increased from 270Nm to 290Nm, which is enough to drop its 0 to 100km/h time from 7.6 to 7.2 seconds, along with fuel consumption figures dropping from 6L/100km to 5.58L/100km.
As for the 330i, horsepower figures in the new engine is raised from 245hp to 252hp, though torque is maintained at 350Nm. As such it is only marginally quicker to 100km/h at 5.8 seconds, rather than the 328i’s 5.9 seconds, whereas fuel consumption has been reduced from 6.3L/100km to 6.1L/100km.
320d – More Power, Less Consumption
BMW Malaysia continues their commitment to diesel powertrains with the 320d. This time around the 2-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine produces 190hp and 400Nm of torque, a 6hp and 20Nm increase over the pre-facelift 320d.
0 to 100km/h is settled in 0.2 seconds quicker at 7.2 seconds, and official fuel consumption figure drops from 4.5L/100km to 4L/100km.
All variants of the 3-Series facelift will come with the 8-speed automatic transmission that can be paired up with the on-board navigation, which allows the drivetrain to anticipate the road ahead and further improve fuel efficiency and emissions.
According to BMW Malaysia the 3-Series facelift have been given a stiffer suspension setup thanks to the fine-tuning of the damping system. This is said to deliver better steering precision and feedback.
That being said, the 320i M Sport and 320d M Sport gets an extra dose of sportiness with the fitment of BMW’s M Sport suspension with 18-inch M light alloy Star-spoke wheels. The 330i M Sport on the other hand would feature the adaptive M suspension with 18-inch M light alloy Double-spoke wheels.
More ConnectedDrive Features on Board
Just as BMW Malaysia have been setting the bar for the new X1 in terms of ConnectedDrive features, the 3-Series continues that trend as being the first in its class to include a complimentary Concierge Service, Intelligent Emergency Call emergency response and telematics system, Remote App capabilities, and BMW Online Office.
The connectivity and telematics systems on board the 3-Series uses an embedded SIM card, which comes with the car free of charge, for the first three years of ownership after which its usage can be renewed.
As for the 320d and 330i variants, BMW says that its latest-generation Navigation System Professional boasts a quicker start-up and even faster route calculation along with a more realistic 3D visualisation in urban areas. To add to that, the 330i gets BMW’s excellent full-colour, high-resolution Head-Up Display.
Just as it is with all BMW models sold from BMW Malaysia the 3-Series facelift range comes fully covered by BMW’s 5 Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty and Free Scheduled Service Program.
The 3-Series facelift range will be available at all authorised BMW Dealerships nationwide from the weekend of the 21
st
 November 2015.


BMW Shows the Ill Effects of B10 Biodiesel, Cautions Against October Introduction

BMW Group Malaysia has issued a statement in response to Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Minister of Plantations Industries and Commodities’ plan on implementing the use of B10 biodiesel by October 2015, which
he revealed today at the 8
th
 International Planters Conference 2015
. In the statement, BMW Malaysia warns of the technical challenges in using fuel that features a 10 per cent blend of palm-based methyl ester, with current conventional diesel.
According to
BMW
’s worldwide tests on B10 biodiesel, the results of using such a high blend of biodiesel is rather alarming as the tests on vehicles has revealed that Fatty-Acid Methyl Ester (FAME), which boils at high temperatures can contaminate the engine’s lubricants, resulting in thinning of the motor oil as it does not evaporate when the engine runs at high temperatures. This in turn leads to the formation of oil sludge, reduced lubricity with the risk of severe engine damage.
Furthermore, testing has also revealed that the use of B10 biodiesel blend has resulted in the formation of deposit films at the injectors due to the lack of compatibility of additives with FAME. Polymer linings at the injector results in the invariance of the injection, as well as reduces the stability of the engine’s idling cycle, thus worsening emissions and engine acoustics.
B10 biodiesel also results in higher levels of water in the fuel, which leads to corrosion of the components which transports the fuel and promotes oxidation in the tank, which in turn can result in a blocked fuel filter. BMW maintains that their engines, are well suited to run on the current B7 level of biodiesel blends. And as we have revealed earlier,
many leading automotive players are warning against the use of biodiesel blends higher than the current B7 blend, due to the ill effects the fuel can have on the well-being of their powertrains.
To that end, BMW, who has been at the forefront of championing the use of diesel technology in Malaysia, urges the Ministry of Plantations Industries and Commodities to take into account the feedback and opinion of the Malaysian automotive industry before implementing the use of B10 biodiesel come October.


Motor Image Subaru and Motul Enter Partnership For Specialised Lubricants

Motor Image – the sole distributor of Subaru vehicles across nine territories in Asia – has announced a joint partnership with French lubricant specialist Motul to develop and supply a line of exclusive lubricant products for Subaru vehicles in the region.
The partnership covers eight markets - Cambodia, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam – whereby Motul will supply the specially developed and formulated oils for Motor Image.
These oils – developed in Japan – will be used in all of Motor Image’s service centres allowing customers to use premium quality, fully-synthetic lubricants at competitive prices.
The first of these lubricant products – dubbed Subaru Engine Oils by Motul – are offered in 0W-20 and the 5W-30 grades and will be available starting January 2019. These 100 percent synthetic oils have been specially researched and developed in Japan.
Both the 0W-20 and 5W-30 oils conform to API SN standards and are designed for naturally-aspirated and turbocharged engines. Other benefits include improved fuel economy, aids emission control system durability, reduced anti-oxidation, and anti premature oil thickening properties caused by thermal stress.
The Subaru Engine Oils by Motul will subsequently be made available in Cambodia, Thailand, and Vietnam by March 2019.


Honda S660 - The Tiny Little Turbocharged Roadster With Supercar Tech

51 years after Soichiro
Honda
 launched his first production car in 1964, the Honda S600 roadster, Honda's all-new Honda S660 is a tiny little car that packs supercar level innovation.
The S660 is one of the most anticipated cars to be launched in Japan in this year and here's why - balanced lightweight construction with 45:55 front:rear weight distribution, 'fun-sized' minicar dimensions for go-kart-like response, mid-ship engine, rear wheel drive, peppy little turbocharged 660cc DOHC engine, 6-speed manual transmission, priced lower than a
Mazda

MX-5
.
There's also a variant equipped with a CVT with paddle shifters to work the automatic transmission's seven virtual ratios.
In Japan, the S660 is starts at 1.98 million Yen, just slightly higher than a
HR-V
 Hybrid in Japan (where it is known as the Vezel). The larger 1.5-litre Mazda MX-5 sells 2.7 million Yen in Japan.
Positioned right behind the driver is a transverse mounted S07A in-line 3-cylinder DOHC turbocharged engine that produces 64 PS at 6,000 rpm and 104 Nm at 2,600 rpm. Doesn't sound like much but the car weighs just 830 kg. The little engine only redlines at 7,600 rpm.
The appeal of the S660 is not top-line speed but its go-kart-like handling. Honda's own internal data shows that the S660 pulls up to 0.8G on the skidpad, just slightly less than the Honda S2000's 0.88G. There's even a G-meter mounted on the dashboard, just like in proper high performance cars like the
Nissan GT-R
 and
Renault Megane
 RS.
Like any top-class
Ferrari
 or a
Porsche
, the S660 has most of its mass concentrated within its wheelbase.
Both the front and rear disc brake calipers, which are a big contributor to the suspension structure's mass, are mounted facing the centre of the vehicle, just like a Ferrari 458 Italia.
Behind the doors is a pair of NACA ducts feeding air into the turbocharged engine, just like a Ferrari F40.
The car's 12V battery is mounted very low, behind the dashboard, to keep the concentration of masses within the car's wheelbase. Similarly, the car's 25-litre fuel tank is installed on the floor, just behind the front passengers.
Further aiding the S660's handling is an Agile Handing Assist system, which uses the brakes to provide torque vectoring as the car pitches and yaws around a car, helping the driver to maintain an optimum driving line.
In a CVT equipped model, there's a Sports mode button which sharpens throttle response.
Three cylinder engines typically don't sound very pleasing but Honda says drivers of the S660 will be able to experience the sensation of sports car's engine thanks to some intelligent sound tuning techniques employed (no artificial sound generation used) - the turbo's blowoff valve sound for example, is piped back into the air box to amplify it.
The S660's compact dimensions rules out fitting a conventional folding roof, be it a fabric top or a metal top. A typical solution used by other car makers involves inconveniencing the driver with a set of metal braces that must be fitted one by one before a fabric cover can be fastened over it.
Honda's solution is an easy-to-use 'roll top' which already comes with the metal braces integrated within. All that a driver needs to do is to simply roll the soft top across the vehicle's sides, step into the cabin and turn one latch on each side to fasten it. The solution is so practical to use that a larger built driver or passenger can simply unlatch one side of the roof, lift it up slightly to allow them to enter the car easier.
Although small, occupants of the S660 are decently protected and Honda says the open-top structure is designed with great consideration for USA's strict regulations for rollover protection, and basing its own internal G-CON standards on these.
Front and side airbags are standard, with the latter featuring a world's first "internal pressure holding airbag system, " which Honda says can hold internal pressure for a longer period of time compare to a conventional airbag system, enabling further improved occupant protection performance.
Other standard features include Vehicle Stability Assist and Hill Start Assist as well as the Emergency Stop Signal system, while City-Brake Active System is available as an option on some models.
While the Honda S660 is a relatively affordable roadster in Japan, high import and excise duties will rule out the car's availability in Malaysia.
Considering the car's tiny 660cc engine and its niche appeal, it's hard to imagine if Honda Malaysia is able to make a strong business case for the S660. For now, there are no firm plans by Honda Malaysia to introduce this model locally but a small number might make it here two years later (Open APs are limited to used cars aged two years or older) via grey importers.


Naza Italia Opens Newly Refurbished Showroom For Ferrari And Maserati

Naza Italia, the sole authorised importer and distributor for
Ferrari
 and
Maserati
 vehicles in Malaysia, today officially opened its newly refurbished Ferrari and Maserati flagship centre and showroom in Petaling Jaya.
Speaking at the launch was Group Executive Chairman & Group CEO of Naza World Group of Companies, Datuk Wira Hj. SM Faisal Tan Sri SM Nasimuddin said, “With growth comes change. In celebration of such growth and to share our gratitude with our customers, we are reinvesting in the Group and rewarding our customers – starting with the refurbishing of the Naza Italia showroom, a place that allows freedom of expression and the realisation of dreams, that echoes all that the exclusive Ferrari and Maserati brands stand for.”
The upgraded centre is dedicated to cater to every need of clients for both car makes. Boosting a fresh and contemporary new design, customers will have the privilege of selecting the car of their choice in comfort and can further personalise their new ride through the Personalization Program, with different variations to select from.
Naza Italia will also continue to bring in new vehicles in the future, expanding upon models such as the Ferrari California T,
Ferrari 458
,
Maserati Ghibli
, and soon, the all-new Ferrari 488 GTB.
In the future, Naza Italia will be looking to upgrade its Aftersales Workshop to better serve customers. Currently, the 4 ‘S’ centre features high-tech servicing bays, advanced tools, and a team of highly-trained and experienced personnel. Cars bought through Naza Italia and new-comers are welcomed to the 4 ‘S’ centre where their vehicles will be registered in an authorised global database providing owners a full history of their car’s service and maintenance records.
Enthusiasts and passionate fans of both marques aren’t left out either as they can make their way to the showroom to have a closer look at the exotic machines. On offer are exclusive merchandise which include apparel, gifts, scaled models, and lifestyle accessories.


1,000 Merdeka Day LATAR Expressway Motorists To Receive Free Touch N' Go Cards

For those driving through the KL-Kuala Selangor Expressway (Latar), the highway concessionaire will be offering a special National Day giveaway for 1,000 lucky motorists: a free RM10 Touch ‘n Go card.
The cards, worth RM10,000 in total, will be given out on August 31
st
 from 12am onwards to motorists paying through the cash-only ‘Tunai’ lane so that they will jump on-board the cashless highway bandwagon, according to a report by
The Sun Daily
.
The full implementation of the electronic toll system in Malaysia is set to be in early 2016, and this is another step in further encouraging the public to transition before the policy comes into effect.
CEO of the KL-Kuala Selangor Expressway Berhad, Ahmad Fuad Ahmad Shahimi, said: “The use of Touch ‘n Go cards or SmartTAGs will definitely ease the traffic at all highways, facilitate faster transaction and avoid having long queues at the toll plazas, especially the cash lanes.”


2022 Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series Launched In Sepang

Alongside the
locally assembled A 35 and GLA 35
, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia have also launched the newest, most hardcore AMG GT coupe into the Malaysian market:
the Black Series
.

If the bright orange and gloss black accents didn’t hint at its performance credentials, or if over-the-top aero bits weren’t convincing enough that this machine sits at the top tier of AMG road machines, know that in 2020 it snatched the title of fastest production car to lap the Nurburgring Nordschleife: 6 minutes 43.616 seconds.

Now, about 18 months after its international outing, buyers in Malaysia will get a change to own one. As you’d expect, it also comes with a stratospheric barrier to entry, so much so that MBM refuses to disclose it completely, merely saying that it’s priced “from RM3 million”.

Historically, neither Mercedes-Benz nor AMG has ever made light of bestowing the title of Black Series on a car. Previous examples have been very fast, true, but also a little overwhelming, characterised by brute force overshadowing the finesse found in their other, lower rung variants.

It gains the double wishbone setup and adjustable custom coil-over suspension system
from the AMG GT R
, albeit modified to handle the additional stresses the Black Series was designed to be subjected to. There’s adjustable carbon fibre torsion bars, dynamic engine and transmission mounts, and even most of the underbody is carbon fibre.

That’s the same super rigid lightweight material that’s used for its massive vented bonnet and much of the car’s aero package as well, which press down on the car to the tune of some 400kg at 250km/h.

Speaking of which, the cornerstone of the GT Black’s ensemble is its engine. Yes, it’s derived from the 4.0-litre M178 bi-turbo V8 petrol that first debuted in the AMG GT over 7 years ago, but here it has been given a thorough going-over, gaining bits lifted straight out of the AMG GT3 racing car such as its unique ‘flat plane’ crank. To match its unique engine note, the engineers have routed the exhaust manifold as well.

Thanks to upgraded intercooler, new camshafts, and beefier turbochargers, the GT Black outputs 730hp between 6,700 and 6,900rpm while peak torque of 800Nm is available from 2,000rpm to 6,000rpm.

All that is sent to the rear wheels for the extra wide Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres to deal with, as before, through a 7-speed AMG Speedshift dual-clutch transmission. A 100km/h sprint is dealt with in 3.2 seconds while top speed is 325km/h.

Basically, it’s the closest they’ve come to offering customers a race car based on the AMG GT but keeping just enough out of the equation to keep it street legal.

The cabin is probably where the road car and GT3 racer differ the most as a fair bit of creature comfort remains in this hardcore circuit muncher. It's got a Burmester sound system too, how extra is that?

The GT Black still has the running gear and infotainment toys
from the standard car
, albeit draped in plenty of Alcantara and exposed carbon fibre. Single piece bucket seats replace plush leather upholstery and there’s even a roll cage obscuring the rearward view.


Peugeot's pickup truck is coming to Malaysia - Est RM123k

The
2023 Peugeot Landtrek
 pickup truck will be coming to Malaysia very soon.

This news was confirmed by Bermaz Auto Alliance (BAASB) last week when they previewed the mid-sized pickup truck during a media event. Malaysia will be the first country in the Asia Pacific to launch the Peugeot Landtrek in 2023.

Peugeot Landtrek - Est price RM123,000?

Bookings are already open for this very stylish-looking pickup truck with an estimated price tag of RM123,000. For that price, you're getting a pickup truck that is powered by a 1.9-litre turbodiesel engine that produces 150hp and 350Nm of torque.

All that power is sent down to the wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. Based on the Changan Kaicheng F70 truck, the Peugeot Landtrek offers its own French twist in the world of mid-size pickup trucks thanks to the brand's styling both inside and out.

Peugeot's 'alluring' design DNA

One look at the Peugeot Landtrek and you'll instantly recognise the brand's 'alluring' design DNA that is both stylish and modern yet rugged, particularly its vertical grille embedded with Peugeot's Lion emblem as well as LED signature lighting.

The inside is just as stylish as some of Peugeot's latest SUV offerings with features like the 10-inch HD screen, Peugeot's signature piano key toggle switches, and other specs that match with its Chinese twin, the Changan Kaicheng F70.

As for safety, the Peugeot Landtrek comes ready with features such as:

SRS Airbags

Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)

Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD)

Emergency Brake Assist (EBA)

Anti-Skid Regulation (ASR)

Hill Assist Descent Control (HADC)

Hill Start Assist (HSA)

ISOFIX points

Quite a cool-looking pickup truck for the modern-day urban environment, to say the least. Any takers?


Volkswagen Debuts All-New T-Cross – Smallest VW SUV Ever

Volkswagen has taken the covers off its smallest SUV yet, the all-new T-Cross. This new model is essentially a crossover version of the all-new MQB-based Polo.
Coming in with a length of 4,107 mm, the all-new T-Cross is shorter in length than some of its key rivals, such as the Renault Captur (4,122 mm) and Peugeot 2008 (4,159 mm). While its length may be shorter than its rivals, its 2,563 mm long wheelbase puts it ahead of the Peugeot 2008 (2,538 mm). In addition to that, the T-Cross’ width of 1,760 mm also shadows that of the 2008 (1,739 mm).
These numbers certainly make the all-new Volkswagen T-Cross a really compact SUV, but claims that the new model seats five people with ease. Volkswagen also said that the sliding rear seats can be adjusted by another 14 cm, allowing for either more passenger leg room or more luggage space. Speaking of luggage space, the all-new T-Cross can hold between 385 and 455 litres of cargo.
According to Volkswagen, the all-new T-Cross is available with 4 turbocharged engines - three petrol and one diesel. The most powerful engine is a 1.5-litre TSI that does 150 PS.
To cater to the ever-growing demand for such small SUVs, Volkswagen will be investing some 1 billion Euros at its Navarra facility in Spain, where the T-Cross is made. Volkswagen is also currently developing market-specific versions of the T-Cross for South America and China.
While the world premiere was in Amsterdam, Volkswagen actually unveiled the car a few hours earlier in Shanghai, and the company will unveil the new model later in São Paulo tonight.


Suspension 101: Why They're Awesome, When Do They Need Replacing/Upgrading

Besides the engine and transmission, your car's suspension might very well be its most important part. Except, it isn’t a singular component but a combination of springs, bearings, tubes, valves, joints, bushings, linkages, and even fluid, arranged in such a way to ensure the weight of your car is always supported and is pressed onto the road in harmony with its design specification, no matter the driving situation.

It plays an important part in allowing the wheels and tyres to maintain a good contact patch with the road, keeping the vehicle stable on uneven surfaces, making it key to both
road holding and safety
. A worn-out suspension not only makes the car uncomfortable but raises the risk of you losing control.

Suspension can be a confusing topic in and of itself, but most of us grasp how essential it is in how a car not only operates but feels and behaves, so it follows that it might one day need servicing or even replacing to maintain optimal performance and safety. You might even have thought about a suspension upgrade to improve ride quality or handling - maybe both at the same time. And the effects are
sometimes night and day
.

After a few years of hard service, any car will inevitably start to feel noticeably more unrefined or even lethargic when it rides over bumps, or perhaps vague and unstable when pitched into a corner. This most likely indicates the need for a new set of shock absorbers (also known as struts or dampers), a component that takes the most punishment outside (apart from tyres) on the road to keep you comfortable inside, and it’s important to have them inspected, rebuilt, or replaced before they become a safety hazard.

What Is A Shock Absorber?

Like
spark plugs
 or an
oil sump
, shock absorbers also have a very straightforward name that match their function. Put simply, they use hydraulic resistance to absorb (or dampen) the impact - both mild and strong - exerted on the wheel and tyres by the surfaces you drive on.

In most cars, they are composed of a metal cylinder and a valve suspended in hydraulic fluid. This valve moves up and down this tube when a force is exerted upon it, though the fluid prevents any sudden agitation and releases the excess energy as heat.

Over time, and especially with the kind of pothole-infested roads we put up with here, the seals and even the fluid itself starts to wear and break down.

A shock absorber is generally referred to when addressing this singular tube assembly, whereas the term ‘strut’ is usually an abbreviation of the MacPherson strut, named after its inventor, an American automotive engineer, who combined the shock absorber with a coil spring into a single contained unit to save space and reduce complexity, which is why people (often enthusiasts) refer to them as ‘coilovers’.

When Do You Need To Replace Your Shocks?

As a rule of thumb, a worn shock absorber can easily be identified by a simple ‘bounce test’. When the vehicle is stationary, quickly and repeatedly put your weight on one corner of the car near the fender to simulate a bump and push down several times. The vehicle should absorb the compression and return the car to its resting position in one stroke, but if it continues to wobble up and down, you’ve got a problem.

Generally, if you’re observant, you’ll start to notice an issue well before that. Aside from the more subtle indicators, any noises or unusual vibration that might stem from the car’s outer corners is a clear signal that something is wrong. Worse, if you happen to find a viscous fluid on the ground near the tyres or, with the aid of a flashlight, in the cavity behind your brake callipers. Get it checked out immediately.

Of course, this is all relative, and your rate of suspension degradation does depend on your specific conditions and how you treat your car. However, when it is determined that your shock(s) or strut assembly need replacement, it's best not to delay.

The Next Step

Once a bad or worn shock or strut has been identified, you could just have your mechanic replace either the front/rear pair depending on the situation. They are typically sold from the manufacturer in pairs and, like tyres, is highly recommended to install them as a set instead of individually.

Your car might have come from the factory with shocks or struts made by a specific company such as Sachs, KYB, Bilstein, Ohlins, Koni, Fox, TRW, or Delphi, and a 1-to-1 replacement will be the most obvious choice to restore your car’s suspension to a like-new status.

However, a lot of these suspension companies do offer similar OEM-
style
replacements that might be interchangeable with your car despite its factory shocks coming from another brand. For example, Bilstein offers their entry-level B4 range for most European, American, or Japanese cars that have been configured to maintain stock ride characteristics but might be endowed with superior materials, dynamics, build quality, and reliability - these are claimed by the manufacturer, of course, so choose wisely.

And if you’re looking to upgrade your suspension system in search of dramatically better handling and performance, the majority of these same brands offer a wide range of aftermarket options that include adjustability for ride height, spring preload, camber, and compression/rebound.

Other companies such as KW, ST, BC Racing, Tein, and Fortune Auto focus almost exclusively on high-performance aftermarket suspension and specialised solutions that may or may not be compatible with your car. It’s worth finding out as the effects can be transformational.


Kia Novo Concept, Would You Want The Future Cerato To Look Like This?

Adapted from the Latin word ‘novatus’ which means to renew or refresh, the
Kia
 Novo concept made its debut at the 2015 Seoul Motor Show recently, showcasing the brand’s future design direction of next-generation compact vehicles.
Underneath the bodywork which was designed at Kia’s Namyang design centre, the Novo sits on an modified version of the C-segment
Cerato
 (aka Forte) platform. With minimal front overhangs and longer ones are the rear, the coupé-like lines extend all the way to the fastback roofline, providing the concept with a sporty outlook. The brand’s trademark ‘tiger nose’ grille is present at the front as well, framing the slim laser headlamps.
Inside, leather and aluminium adorn the dashboard that is angled towards the driver. Sci-fi elements include a three-dimensional hologram display that provides relevant information (speed, rev counter) and a ‘blind control’ touch pad beside the steering wheel that incorporates a fingerprint scanner to automatically set the car up according to the relevant driver’s preferences. Music choices, audio volume, and type information to be displayed, all at your fingertips, literally. The centre of the dash houses a wide touchscreen display for the car’s other functionality features.
The concept isn’t just about design though. Powering the Kia Novo concept is a 1.6-litre Kappa T-GDI engine mated to a new seven-speed dual clutch transmission, sending drive to the front wheels. The front wheels themselves are 20-inch in diameter and features what the brand calls ‘adaptive concave profile’ tyres that features a sunken middle section between two contact points that cool the rubber and channel road away from the wheels for greater grip.
As of now, Kia has no plans to put the Novo into production as it merely serves to provide a glimpse into the brand’s plans for its future compact car line-up. However, Kia mentions that they have “a history of delivering production vehicles that bear a strong resemblance to concept vehicles that precede them.” A look at a future Cerato perhaps?


Roadblock SOPs: What Are Your Rights As A Citizen?

First of all, hitting the road during this crucial Super MCO (a.k.a Lockdown, FMCO) period isn’t something we necessarily recommend doing, especially if the reasons falls outside the “getting essentials” bubble.

At the time of writing, there have been over 1,000 roadblocks or Sekatan Jalan Raya (which translates directly back to “stuck road”, funnily enough) set up by the authorities to ensure that Malaysians not
venture too far afield
 to curb the spread of the COVID-19. This is done through the use of both static roadblocks and ones that shift locations throughout the day.

However, now that they’re a necessary, if inconvenient, part of our lives, it’s almost inevitable that we’ll come across one. While the queuing is a no-brainer, many of us are not familiar with the dynamics that occur between the police and ourselves. Understanding this might seem trivial, but it certainly is worth knowing if only to avoid any anxiety and help give us a wider perspective.

At A Roadblock: The Basics

Assuming you’ve done nothing wrong, or nothing that you’re aware of, it’s important to stay calm. Being rude, aggressive, or acting rashly will only escalate the situation. Getting caught up in a roadblock usually won’t take up much time and, even if it does, saying so is a totally acceptable excuse for not being on time.

With the
‘10km radius’ rule in effect
, it’s also worth keeping a piece of documentation that can prove your current residence (and point of travel origin) if your address does not match that of your government-issued cards. It’s also good practice to have your driver’s license and IC within quick reach, or at least not buried too deeply inside your wallet.

If the sun is down or lighting is overly dim, have your interior light on before you pull up for a one-on-one with the officer. It’ll help you with identifying items within your car and it’s a subtle signifier that you’re being cooperative and have nothing to hide.

Special mention for FMCO: During this period, because the
majority of JPJ operations have been paused
, it is permissible to present a recently expired driving license or be driving a vehicle with a recently expired road tax as the facilities for their renewal are temporarily not accessible.

At A Roadblock: Your Rights

Now comes the part that most Malaysians are quite hazy on. We’ve been predisposed to think that the police have full authority over what occurs at these roadblocks.

Though, as citizens, we are obligated to lend our cooperation and truthfully answer their questions, there are lines that we can choose to not cross (figuratively speaking).

Unrelated Questions

A roadblock is meant to be an efficient and streamlined operation, so the police officer will be asking you a specific series of questions related to yourself, your vehicle, your destination, and your point of origin.

You are no longer legally required to divulge additional information that deviates from this. Should that happen, ask for clarification as further questioning is only a step taken when a person is being placed under arrest - quite a rare occasion at a roadblock.

While you may be asked to voluntarily empty your pockets and/or bags, the officer also has no right to search your pockets, bags, or belongings themselves unless you are being explicitly placed under arrest.

Am I Under Arrest?

If you are not under arrest, you have the right of refusal, and are under no obligation to answer more detailed questions or follow the officer to a police station (or anywhere else).

If the officer does answer in the affirmative - meaning you are under arrest - do not attempt to resist. However, even here, there are some rights you can exercise.

As you cannot be placed under arrest without being informed as to why, you can ask the officer(s) to furnish you with the details/reasoning behind it.

Officer’s Details

Any PDRM officer will have his or her name printed on their uniform, so take note of that if you need to. Furthermore, an officer will also have their badge or ID number clearly displayed as well.

It’s also within your rights to verbally ask for these details at any point during the roadblock (or any other interaction), which could come in handy if you need to recount any details in a report and/or complaint.

Should the officer present their authority card at any time, it might be helpful to take note of the additional details presented here. Apart from their aforementioned name and ID number, observe the card’s colour: white is for reserve officers, yellow for officers ranked below Inspector, blue for those ranked Inspector or above.

Summing Up

If you are following the necessary health-related SOPs and are otherwise a law-abiding citizen, going through a roadblock is a non-issue. At most, it’s a short-term inconvenience on our weekly ‘bread run’.

Besides suspicious activity, it’s extremely rare that the police will be presenting you with any questions besides your origin and destination. Just have the necessary documents and identification handy and you’ll be on your way again in no time. Stay safe and stay healthy!

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Three Reasons Why Proton Thinks You Should Buy A New Car Before SST Kicks In

We all know it's coming. With the reduction of GST to 0%, it's no surprise that the government needs to find another source of revenue to help fill the nation's coffers, especially with such a large amount of debt to deal with. With the implementation of SST slated for September, we're seeing consumers going on a buying spree across all kinds of industries - and one such industry happens to be the automotive one.
According to Proton, there are three main reasons why you should be looking to buy a new car in these coming months.
1. The entry level segment is more competitive than ever.
When it comes to cars below the RM 100,000 mark and at 1.6-litres of displacement and below, there are a huge number of options available to buyers. But for those who are looking for a value for money proposition and are willing to trade away a bit of engine size, opting for a 1.3-litre model gives great features for a fairly low price. One such example is the Proton Saga, which comes equipped with features that were usually only found in top-spec models, things like electronic stability control and traction control. These items add huge value to the cars in this segment, making them highly competitive.
2. New cars are cheaper with GST at 0%, and loans are easier
New cars are a lot easier to get high percentage loans on, let alone loans at all. With our market becoming tighter and tighter and loan applications becoming more difficult, in many cases it's better to save yourself the trouble and go for an easier, practical solution. In addition to this, new cars are, more likely than not, cheaper due to the 0% rated GST, whereas used car values hardly changed during the transition to GST and the subsequent 0% rating.
3. When SST comes in, prices are going to go up.
As we mentioned earlier, consumers are on a buying frenzy to take advantage of the price reductions, but these price reductions won't last forever. Consider it a holiday, if you will, and the incoming SST may very well raise prices of items beyond what they were at 6% GST levels. It's important to remember that a lot of brands had their car prices actually reduce as a result of 6% GST implementation, meaning it can only go back up if SST is implemented at a 10% rate.


Amazon + Rivian: All-Electric Courier Van Rolls Out In Second Location

The Amazon +
Rivian
 all-electric courier van has just been deployed in San Francisco, the second location after Los Angeles.

The
future
 is really well and truly ongoing at Amazon as it has just expanded its customer deliveries via its Rivian-sourced electric cargo vehicle to San Francisco, making the hilly bay area the second test ground for their electric cargo vehicle.

Why San Francisco after Los Angeles, you ask? Well, letting new electric vehicles loose in San Francisco's unique terrain and climate is the perfect opportunity to test the capabilities of these new Amazon fully electric courier vans.

As part of their "Climate Pledge", which involves the use of 100,000 custom electric delivery vehicles by 2040, Amazon's director of global fleet and products, Ross Rachey said that "From what we've seen, this is one of the fastest modern commercial electrification programs, and we're incredibly proud of that,"

The e-commerce giant has recently invested RM800 Million into a new delivery station in the heart of San Francisco signaling Amazon's push to significantly increase deliveries in the city. Amazon aims to have 10,000 of these electric vans operational by next year.

The Rivian-based Amazon electric courier vans have a range of 241 kilometres, which makes them a perfect courier vehicle for a city. The Amazon all-electric delivery van was first unveiled in February 2020 and is built by EV startup
Rivian
. It comes with state-of-the-art technology, like sensing equipment and an advanced driver-assist system.


The Face Of The Not-So-Distant Future: 2021 Porsche Taycan Experience

The future is electric, period. While we may lament the loss of soulful
Ferrari V12
 soundtracks, or the pops and bangs of a turbocharged
Mitsubishi Evo
 – as Elon Musk recently told a roomful of the biggest oil people in the world: before the turn of the next century we will simply look at hydrocarbon-based energy like we look at coal power now. Simply too old, too dirty, and too inefficient to make monetary sense.

It’s the same reason you don’t care about the organic click-clacks of a mechanical typewriter versus the swipes and pinches of your smartphone screen. Yes, there will be long unanswered questions on the best way to produce electric cars, charging infrastructure woes and most importantly, recyclability – electric cars are here to stay and are only going to get more popular by the day.

Power evolved

But, when you remove the sound of a car – you essentially remove a crucial dimension of sensory enjoyment that makes driving such a gratifying experience. However, there are two other aspects that also make driving so exhilarating, and they are also universally understood: power and handling.

Power and handling prowess then become the primary aspects of reimagining exhilaration in the age of the electric car – something they are so adept at providing at virtually any moment.

Few others understand power and handling as much as Porsche...

Despite all the hype about its groundbreaking technology, drop-dead gorgeous looks, and trademark Porsche efficiency – the
Porsche Taycan stands for far more than that.

It stands for the transference of feeling, emotions, and the romance of our internal combustion-powered past into the electric future. Yes, you could argue that
Tesla
 did it first, but unlike Tesla and the bonkers amount of new EV vehicle startups – they offer no benchmark and therefore no lineage to the glory of the past.
Not like Porsche
.

Yes, Teslas may drive well – but arguably, with a steering wheel in your hands and a go-pedal under your right foot – that intuitive character you feel when driving a car, is often highlighted by a car’s flaws just as much as what it does well. That’s something that gives a car its soul – and it’s present in any great car of the last 100 years or so – be it a Pre-War blower Bentley, a classic
MINI Cooper
 or a Lexus LFA.

Porsche soul, now electrified!

When the Taycan got its long-awaited name (until which it was only known as the Mission E) – its Turkic origin was selected for its meaning of an untamed, spirited young horse, in Japanese
taikan
 means roughly “physical experience”— that, Porsche aimed to achieve through driving in its most electrifying form.

To put their work through the test, members of media were recently given a rare chance to unleash the Taycan on the tarmac of Sepang to experience the blistering pace of its new electric vehicle – and more importantly, if it drives just how a Porsche should. Our track time would be split between a drag race and blast around the circuit to see if it likes the bends.

The
Porsche Taycan range
 in Malaysia is as follows:

Taycan: from MYR 584,561

Taycan 4S: from MYR 699,986

Taycan Turbo: from MYR 963,297

Taycan Turbo S: from MYR 1,151,779

The two-deck 93.4 kWh Performance Battery Plus (PBP), optional on the Taycan and Taycan 4S adds just under RM40,000 to the prices (as listed) over the standard-issue 79.2 kWh Performance Battery. The latter Turbo and Turbo S models feature the PBP as standard. The Taycan Cross Turismo versions are also available on an order basis

Here a shortlist of the Taycan range’s performance specifications

Taycan: Power: 326PS/408PS with Overboost, Peak torque: 345Nm, 0-100km/h: 5.4 seconds, 230km/h top speed

Taycan 4S: 435PS/530PS with Overboost, Peak torque: 640Nm, 0-100km/h: 4.0 seconds, 250km/h top speed

Taycan Turbo: 625PS/680PS with Overboost, Peak torque: 850Nm, 0-100km/h: 3.2 seconds, 260km/h top speed

Taycan Turbo S: 625PS/761PS with Overboost, Peak torque: 1,150Nm, 0-100km/h: 2.8 seconds, 260km/h top speed

On the dragstrip

On the wide back, straight of Sepang sat two Taycans – the first a Taycan 4S and the other the hot-blooded Taycan Turbo, menacingly dressed in black with contrasting bronze wheels. Just ahead, lay roughly 300 meters off the tarmac, punctuated by high-visibility cones. Having watched these two take off prior to my stint, one would not describe how they set off as accelerating, rather disappearing from a standstill into a different space and time.

I opt to get into 4S first, as it will likely offer a more gradual learning curve – but boy was I wrong, nothing prepares you for a Taycan. The acceleration is unlike any other conventionally powered vehicle, which builds power only as you start moving. Here, and even with the milder settings – it's as if you are free framed just before pressing the accelerator, and by the time your head gathers enough information to know what you’re doing – you’re already hitting 80-90km/h.

Your head and back are pinned into the seat, as an unrelenting wave of power pulls the car forward. Unlike conventional cars which have to cycle through gears, thereby punctuating the power, the dual-motors of the 4S (putting upwards of 400PS to the ground) requires nothing less than all your concentration to keep the car going where you want it to. The steering wheel and brakes are the only hints that you still have control over what is happening. In both cars, we were allowed to do multiple runs ranging from Sport, Sport Plus and finally, with Launch Control – there’s a tangible increase in aggression as you wind up through the modes.

Of course, once you have jumped into the Turbo variant - every single ounce of drama, fear, and amazement is heightened even further.

It catapults like a cruise missile in familiar Porsche 911 “Turbo” fashion, the back hunkers down, smothering the tyres into the road, the front tyres anchor even harder in the Turbo, and everything in your periphery quickly changes to warp speed. Where my neck strained in the 4S, in the Turbo, I was actually getting slightly lightheaded with the blood rushing to the back of my head.

With over 600PS and a whopping 850Nm of torque – I was hurtling past 120km/h within seconds of getting off the brakes. The Turbo builds a gap of nearly 2-3 car lengths over the 4S in the same distance, and then it’s over, almost as soon as it started. For lack of a better phrase, the acceleration is mind-boggling, and simply too fast for me.

Next, we take to the corners of Sepang…

Moving onwards from the drag test, we were handed the keys to a short stint on the North Section of the Sepang Circuit, which winds from the starting straight all the way down to Turn 6 before cutting back to the start-finish line.

If the drags proved the Taycan was fast, here was where the Taycan proved it was a Porsche.

Here again, I strapped into the Taycan 4S. The ergonomics are superb, much like its closest four-doored sibling the Panamera. However, in the Taycan you are closer to the ground, more like a Porsche 911. Visibility is great despite the relatively small glasshouse proportions – it offers ample awareness of the surroundings.

As we set off from the pitlane in a controlled fashion, I realise how tractable the accelerator pedal is, once of the brakes, it creeps forward like any other car, adding power simply gives it more pace, and soon we’re off heading towards Turn 1. The first lap introduces the corners, the brakes, and the deliciously weighted steering that is so quick and precise, allowing me to point this rather big car to almost every apex with ease.

The car's balance is immense, the suspension poised and confidence-inspiring, comfortable yet direct with every response – and given the weight distribution of the battery and the various componentry of the car’s 800 Volt powertrain – almost no bodyroll in the corners – even during the quick switchback between Turn 1 and 2 of Sepang.

As we build pace, over the next two laps, the 4S proves one thing – that every Porsche does and does better than almost any other car – it shrinks around you. Despite its size, it manages to shrink-wrap itself around your controls and driving intentions – making itself no more overwhelming than a family sedan, yet with all the blistering pace when called on for.

This for me is at the heart and soul of every Porsche which I have had the pleasure of driving. The Taycan is no different, especially in its 4S guise, providing such a tractable and sublime entry point into the world of the electrified Porsche.

Soul electrified…bring it on!


2022 Vito Tourer vs 2021 Toyota Vellfire: The Vito Has Musical Chairs, But the Vellfire Has Captain Seats - What's Best?

Can the 2022 Mercedes-Benz Vito Tourer pick away at Toyota's dominance in the luxury MPV segment?

When it comes to luxury multi-purpose vehicles (MPV), Malaysians usually gravitate straight towards the Toyota Vellfire/Alphard duo, as they present the
best package
s
 possible for a luxurious family/limo vehicle.

It went unchallenged for many years, which is why it is pretty much hammered in buyers' minds that they are the go-to vehicle for those looking for a luxury MPV.

Recently, Hyundai unveiled the
Staria
, with the aim of giving buyers another option, but realistically it's going to be tough for it to do so, as an expensive Hyundai is just a bitter pill to swallow no matter how good the Staria is as a package.

The offering from Mercedes-Benz on the hand is an easier alternative to accept, as the brand is full of brand heritage, model lineage and the fact that people are used to its premium prices.

That offering is of course the
Vito
 Tourer
, and considering that it is a fully imported German vehicle that only costs RM342k, it already looks good from that point of view.

But just like the
Staria
, does it have a chance at chipping away the Vellphard's market monopoly? To find out, we must first put them side by side on a comparison table. Considering that it is priced closer to the Vellfire rather than the Alphard, it's only fair to compare it with the smaller cc Toyota MPV.

2022 Mercedes-Benz Vito Tourer vs 2021 Toyota Vellfire 2.5L

Index

Mercedes-Benz Vito

Tourer

Toyota Vellfire

MSRP

RM342k

RM368k

Engine

2.0-litre Turbo

2.5-litre NA

Transmission

9-Speed Auto

CVT

Horsepower

211

178

Torque (Nm)

350 (1,300 - 4,000rpm)

235 (4,100rpm)

Dimensions (mm)

Length x Width x Height

5,370 x 2,244 x 1,958

4,935 x 1,850 x 1,895

Seats

10 (2-3-2-3)

7(2-2-3)

Airbags

6

7

Safety & Driver Assist

Active Brake Assist

Active Distance Assist (DISTRONIC)

Blind Spot Assist

Automatic High Beam

Lane Keeping Assist

Active Lane Tracking

Crosswind Assist

Parktronic, and Driver Attention Alert.

Pre-Collision Warning

Lane Departure Alert (LDA) with Steering Assist & Lane Trac

Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC)

Automatic High Beam (AHB)

Blind Spot Monitor (BSM)

Parking Sensors with Parking Support Brake

As you can see from the table, the two are quite closely matched. However, there are a few noticeable differences in our opinion that makes the Vito a better buy - if you plan to use the vehicle as a
family vehicle
 that needs to accommodate more than just two kids.

Vellfire Captain Seats

The Vellfire typically comes with Captain seats in the middle row. While this is a great set of seats for those who treat an MPV more like a limousine, the versatility of the Vito with its 10 seat configuration is just perfect for larger families. With this kind of configuration, grandparents, siblings and kids can all come along for the ride.

Vito's rear seating arrangement

And then there is the grunt. With torque kicking in from as low as 1,300rpm, we feel like the Vito has more usable torque which is great for a vehicle this large. This should translate into better pulling power, especially during start-stop situations, ie city driving. The Vito also offers more in terms of horsepower. The combination just makes the German MPV a perfect vehicle for a weekend cruiser or weekday daily.

Safety-wise, they both have a few features that get one over the other, but generally, they are both quite kitted out and should give their passengers some good protection.

The only place we can see some shortcomings in the Vito is in the rear entertainment department, as it doesn't come with a roof-mounted screen like in the Vellfire.

But then again, it's all about what the Vito can do when it comes to the seating configuration. Thanks to some clever bits of design, there are quick releases for the seat rail system allowing passengers to reorient themselves while remaining sat down, ideal for those impromptu high-powered business meetings or random card games in the back seats.

All in all, we like the Vito over the Vellfire if value and versatility is the name of the game, but against the
Toyota Alphard?
 Well, that's another article for another day.


Perodua Provides More Cash Assistance To Flood Hit States

Perodua
 is extending its cash assistance to flood hit states by adding on an additional RM 225,000 to the
RM 400,000 contribution
 they’ve made since December 2014.
Aside from cash donations, 100 Perodua volunteers were also sent to affected areas to assist in clean-up efforts and help authorities in the distribution of much-needed goods to flood victims, in partnership with Majlis Keselamatan Negara.
The national car maker also offered a reimbursement on towing service fees up to a maximum of RM100 as well as offering a 20% off selected genuine parts to Perodua owners whose vehicles are damaged by the floods.
Customers whose Perodua vehicles suffered flood related damages recently, are encouraged to call
Perodua
 Smart Assist at 1-800-88-5555 for towing assistance.


Geneva 2017: 2nd Gen McLaren Super Series Might Just be the Highlight of the Show

While every new supercar that comes out has the manufacturer going on and on about how fast the car can go from naught to 100km/h, the second-generation McLaren Super Series, which will be unveiled on March 7 at the 87
th
 Geneva International Motor Show, is more proud of how quickly it can stop.
Do keep in mind that this car will be anything but slow – as it is able to sprint to 200km/h in 7.8 seconds. But the big news here is that it can brake to standstill from that speed in only 4.6 seconds and 117 metres, which is six metres less than the 650S and similar to the P1.
“As well as delivering the outstanding driver involvement and enjoyment for which the brand is renowned, McLaren’s new supercar will also excel in everyday driving,” explained McLaren Automotive Chief Test Driver, Chris Goodwin.
“The extreme performance and dynamic prowess of the second-generation Super Series, honed by testing at the limits and beyond, provides the perfect foundation for it to be the most complete supercar across the full range of use.” McLaren has released a short film showing the car during dynamic testing, driven by Chris Goodwin.
It is said that the braking capabilities of the second-generation Super Series were perfected during the development programme of dynamic technologies ever undertaken by McLaren Automotive.
McLaren added that lighter, stiffer brake calipers, carbon-ceramic discs, as well as the optimised brake pedal feel and modulation at the limit are key elements in delivering the incredible stopping power.
Working in close co-operation with Pirelli, McLaren engineers developed a new, bespoke Pirelli P Zero Corsa tyre for the second-generation Super Series that supports a six per cent improvement in mechanical grip compared to the McLaren 650S.
The Corsa tyre is one of a range of Pirelli tyres developed specifically for McLaren’s new supercar, all of which provide superb driver feedback as well as ensuring extreme levels of grip and braking performance.
Further details of the second-generation McLaren Super Series will be confirmed on March 7, when a full range of images will also be available.


Mercedes-Benz GLB Will Sit Between GLC And GLA, Take On The BMW X1

In just a few hours more, Mercedes-Benz’s latest offering in its portfolio – the first-ever GLB compact SUV, will be celebrating its world première in Utah, USA.
The GLB will be Mercedes-Benz’s first compact SUV that can function as a rugged utility vehicle, as well as a spacious family car at the same time.
According to the folks from Mercedes-Benz, this is the first time the brand is offering a model in this segment that is available both as a five-seater and also a seven-seater (optional).
First unveiled in
concept form in Shanghai
 a couple of months ago, the GLB will sit between the GLA and the GLC, and compete with models like the BMW X1.
Measuring 4,634 mm long and 1,890 mm wide, the GLB is a tiny bit smaller than the GLC-Class, just 22 mm shorter with identical width.
Compared to the outgoing generation (MFA platform) GLA-Class, the GLB-Class’ 2,829 mm long wheelbase is 130 mm longer. The additional 130 mm length between the axles allow Mercedes-Benz to cram seven seats (optional) inside the GLB-Class, something which BMW doesn’t offer with the X1, whose 2,670 mm wheelbase is 159 mm shorter.
Built on the same MFA-II platform that underpins the
A-Class hatchback
,
A-Class Sedan
, and CLA-Class Coupe, the GLB will most likely be powered by the same 2.0-litre M260 turbocharged petrol engine as the A250.
It makes 224 hp and 350 Nm but unlike the 7-speed dual-clutch automatic A250, the GLB will use the 8G-DCT from diesel-powered variants of the B-Class. It will also feature 4Matic permanent all-wheel drive.
More details and images will follow later today once the GLB makes its global debut.
Looking for a new Mercedes-Benz? Click
here
 for the best deals.


2022 Lotus Emira Gets Malaysian Preview - From RM1.13 Million

The last combustion-engined Lotus, the 2022 Lotus Emira gets a Malaysian preview. The price? A cool RM1,131,800.

British sports car specialists Lotus returns to familiar turf with
the all-new 2022 Emira
. Intended as the firm’s final production model to sport an internal combustion engine and perhaps the last ‘legacy’ model to roll out of Hethel.

You can slash the price of RM1,131,800 down by half if you’re willing to purchase and leave your Emira in Langkawi as the on-the-road duty-free prices are much more bearable at RM456,900. Makes you think how much foreign car ownership in Malaysia is a rigged game.

Last Of A Generation...

Back in July 2021, Lotus first revealed the Emira, a new mid-engine sports car that clearly was developed as a next-generation torchbearer for
the ageing Evora
. And now the car gets its first taste of Malaysian air in the form of this dark grey First Edition example.

The car you see here, technically a pre-production unit, also happens to be the same car that kicked off the Emira’s debut last year and was seen shortly after tearing up the hill climb course at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. It’s also the one Jenson Button drove around Laguna Seca, now relegated to global tour duties. It’s had quite a life.

Matt Windle, Managing Director, Lotus Cars, commented: “The Emira is the most accomplished Lotus we've ever made, and to celebrate and reward our keenest early customers, we want to make the first cars extra special to own. The features have been carefully selected by our design team to make for a truly special and distinct First Edition.”

Lotus Emira First Edition

It’s not known how many of these First Edition cars will be offered, but estimates stand at around 1,000 to 2,000 examples of a production run that could hit well over 50,000 units. Sure, Lotus only managed to crank out a little over 6,100 Evoras during tenure as the brand’s mid-engine GT, but the 2022 Emira is bound to benefit from the production efficiencies learned from new benefactors Geely.

Lotus Emira Specifications

In many ways, this car is a more realised version of the Evora’s original vision as a relatively lightweight, nimble grand touring thrill ride - a category first explored by the Esprit. It still uses essentially the same bonded aluminium underpinnings and inherits its
400hp/420Nm supercharged

2GR-FE 3.5-litre Toyota V6
.

Mated to this is a 6-speed manual transmission as standard or an optional 6-speed automatic, both sourced from Aisin. With the supercharger blaring behind your skull, rowing through the gears should be pretty frantic, helping it achieve its claimed 4.3-second sprint to 100km/h and onward to its top speed of 290km/h.

Also incoming is an alternative engine option from Mercedes-AMG, specifically a bespoke version of its
M139 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder

from the A 45 S
, tuned to deliver a different flavour of 400hp through a dual-clutch gearbox.

Despite being dimensionally larger than its predecessor (in its original 2009 guise) and weighing in at a slightly portlier 1,405kg, with the added refinement and power advantage, Lotus is pretty confident that the 2022 Emira will still be as telepathic behind the wheel.

The Emira First Edition launched here will boast 20-inch forged alloy wheels, LED headlights and taillights, titanium exhaust finishers, and a choice of six exterior colour options:
Seneca Blue
 – which was seen at the car’s launch in July – plus
Magma Red, Hethel Yellow, Dark Verdant, Shadow Grey and Nimbus Grey
. Buyers opting for the
‘Drivers Pack’
 will also need to choose between the Tour or Sport suspension which also alters the tyre package between the Goodyear Eagle F1 Supersport or Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2.

2022 Lotus Emira Interior

Its interior is where the Emira takes a most pleasant turn as the questionable materials and slightly iffy construction of years past have given way to a fairly modern cabin that drips with minimal chic while still cocooning the driver like a Lotus should.

Any analogue gauges are now replaced by digital screens, one for the instrument cluster and the other for the 10.25-inch touchscreen multimedia unit which looks awfully familiar to the
one found in the Proton X50
. There’s also ambient lighting and support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with audio piped to a 340W, 10-speaker array from sonic specialists KEF. However, the Convenience Pack is needed to add on front parking sensors, rain-sensing wipers, and a reversing camera.

The upholstery can be specified in either
black, red, grey, or tan Nappa leather as well as black Alcantara with red, yellow, or grey stitching
 while the semi-bucket seats themselves feature 12-way power-adjustability. Also included in the base price is climate control, keyless start, selectable drive modes, and cruise control.

Lotus Cars Malaysia say that 45 bookings have been made so far for the Emira. Full production on the First Edition units with the 3.5-litre V6 will commence in 2022 while the units fitted with the AMG powerplant are earmarked for 2023.