Does The Turbocharged Engine Of The Perodua Ativa Need To Cool Before Turning Off?

Does the Perodua Ativa need to idle/ cool off for a minute before turning off its turbocharged engine?

With four
national cars
 now being equipped with
turbocharged engines
in the form of the Perodua Ativa, Proton X70, X50 and Exora, it's safe to say that many Malaysians are now starting to familiarise themselves with how to care for engines with
turbochargers attached to them
.

Because many Malaysians
own them now
, we have many strong communities on social media where questions and uncertainties about
turbocharged
 engines are constantly being asked.

Do you need to let the Ativa idle before turning the engine off?

One of the recent subjects that have popped up on the
Perodua Ativa
 Club Malaysia Facebook page is the question of whether the Ativa needs a minute to cool down before turning off the engine?

According to the Perodua Ativa user manual, to prevent damage to the turbo unit, do not turn off the engine after high speed or driving uphill. Instead, drivers must give the turbocharged engine a minute to idle before turning it off unless it is deemed unnecessary, where eco idle would have switched it off anyway (Eco Idle is Perodua's term for Start-Stop System).

The instructions given by the Perodua Ativa user manual are in line with the understanding that it's best practice to allow the engine a bit of a recuperation time before switching it off
IF
 you drive it hard or at a constant high speed.

Why must a turbocharged engine rest?

Turbochargers produce a lot of heat
 while driving and even more if driven hard. If you turn off the engine immediately, the residual heat will boil the oil in the turbo system, leading to a build-up of carbon particles that can cause corrosion and premature engine wear. By giving it 60 seconds to idle, the oil circulation will be continuous, and the turbo will cool down.

If the Eco Idle system senses that the temperature is suitable for a start-stop operation, it will then proceed to do so, but if the temperature is on the high side, it will not allow the operation to protect the car.

Eco-Idle does the job most times

In most cases, there is inevitably a period of low-speed driving before coming to a full stop, where it is sufficient for the engine oil to cool to a level that will
not damage the turbocharger bearings
.

We are not saying that turbocharged engines need to cool down before they are turned off, but it is advisable to let it cool down (idle) after a hard drive - but that is if you have to stop the car deliberately for any reason.

Most of the time, you would have cooled the turbo off by driving at low speeds, such as when you are looking for parking or slowing down because you have reached congested roads. So as you can see, it's something you don't have to think about because most of the time, the cooling has already been done when you drive at lower speeds before coming to a full stop.


Spied: Proton’s Upcoming Suzuki Ertiga-based MPV

Our friends at
AutoFreaks.com
 have captured what is probably the first spyshot of Proton’s upcoming seven-seater MPV that will be based on the Suzuki Ertiga.
As reported earlier, Proton has already confirmed that it will be launching an
Ertiga-based MPV
in October 2016. It is part of a three-pronged product assault, including an all-new Saga and Persona, to overhaul Proton’s range of affordable family cars.
Considering the short lead time between Proton entering a licensing agreement with Suzuki in June and its October launch timing, the upcoming MPV will most probably be a simple rebadge job, and will not have any extensive Proton-specific input like what we saw in the eighth generation Honda Accord-based
all-new Proton Perdana
.
Judging from this spyshot, we may be getting the pre-facelift Ertiga (difference is with the grille), but of course, it also quite possible for the actual series production model made by Proton to feature the newer facelift model's grille.
It is unclear if the Ertiga will replace the aging Proton Exora, which was launched in early 2009, but considering its dimensions, the Ertiga-based Proton will most likely be positioned below the 1.6-litre Exora, which currently starts from RM67,220.
Currently, the Toyota Avanza-class Suzuki Ertiga is manufactured in India, Myanmar and Indonesia. The only petrol engine available for the front-wheel drive MPV is a woeful 1.4-litre engine that musters just 94 hp, paired to either a 4-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual to haul this 1,190 kg MPV. In India, there’s also a 1.3-litre diesel engine.
Having seen the Ertiga up close at last year’s Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (pre-facelift model), we have to caution buyers against setting unrealistically high expectations for the car.
Unless Proton is making significant upgrades to its interior, and short of selling it at near fire sale prices, the Ertiga is not going to hit the right chords among Malaysian families.
The Ertiga is a low cost car designed for emerging markets of India and Indonesia and everything in the Ertiga’s cabin reminds you of its low cost origins.
The biggest gripe we have with the Ertiga is its second row seats, which does not fold flat or tumble forward, making access into the third row unnecessarily difficult.
To climb into the third row seats, one can only slide the second row seats forward, tilt the seatback forward, and squeeze yourself through the tiny gap between the door frame and the second row seats. Hopefully, Proton is able to squeeze through some small, but important improvements on Suzuki’s rather basic designs within the short timeframe. For the record, the Proton Exora's one-touch fold and tumble mechanism for the second row seats is still one of the best in any MPV.


Paris 2016: Mercedes-Benz Generation EQ Concept - Daimler’s Electric Mobility Lifestyle Sub-Brand

Mercedes-Benz will be launching a series production electric-powered SUV latest by 2020. Previewed at the Paris Motor Show as the Generation EQ Concept, the upcoming electric drive SUV will be first of a several more series production electric vehicles from Mercedes-Benz, all of which will wear the EQ sub-brand.
Short for Electric Intelligence, the EQ brand refers to more than just a car. In the same way BMW’s i sub-brand encompasses not just the i3 and i8, but also the eco-system supporting electric mobility, Mercedes-Benz’s EQ brand will adorn all Mercedes-Benz related wallboxes, charging services, and home energy storage units.
"The new generation of electric vehicles will be based on an architecture developed specifically for battery-electric models, which is scalable in every respect and usable across all models. It is suitable for all model series as well as sub-models, such as SUVs, saloons and coupés. Wheelbase and track are variable", Prof. Dr Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development.
This all-wheel drive concept SUV has two electric motors, one at each axle, producing a total output of up to 300 kW (about 400 hp), depending on configuration. It has an electric drive range of up to 500 km.
To separate it from other regular Mercedes-Benz models, the upcoming EQ range of cars will have their own distinctive "electro-aesthetic" styling. This will include a new shape of radiator grille together with a new light signature. The interior, too, comes with the new "electro-aesthetic".
In the Generation EQ Concept, traditional controls and displays are replaced with simple, touch-based controls.
This is not the first time Daimler has introduced a sub-brand solely for electric drive vehicles. In China, the company already sells EVs under the Denza brand, but its limited only to China, and the rights to the brand are co-owned with China’s BYD Auto.


2016 Honda BR-V Quick Review

Following its global debut at the 2015 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show in Jakarta earlier in August, Honda has given us yet another sneak preview of the upcoming seven-seater Honda BR-V. This time, we were allowed to step inside in the budget SUV and drove it for a short distance on the grounds of Honda's Twin Ring Motegi driving course in Japan.
What Is It?
To recap, the
Honda
 BR-V is a seven-seater SUV that sits below the
Honda HR-V
. Despite the similar sounding name, the BR-V is not related to the HR-V, or even the CR-V.
While the HR-V is based on the City/Jazz platform, the BR-V is an extension of the Brio (1.2-litre hatchback), Brio Amaze (1.2-litre sedan) and Mobilio (1.5-litre seven-seater MPV) family. None of these models are available in Malaysia as they are aimed at first-time car buyers in Thailand, Indonesia.
Power comes from a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated i-VTEC engine that produces 120 PS at 6,600 rpm and 145 Nm at 4,600 rpm. Drive is transferred to the front wheels via a choice of a 6-speed manual (unlikely to be offered here) or an Earth Dreams series CVT automatic, the latter is shared with the Jazz and City.
There are no plans for a 4WD model.
The BR-V is jointly developed by Honda R&D Asia Pacific Co., Ltd., in Thailand, and P.T. Honda R&D Indonesia.
Its main competitor is the Toyota Rush, but since the Mobilio isn’t sold here, it will also take on the responsibility of seizing more sales from the Toyota Avanza and Nissan Grand Livina.
More about the BR-V’s tentative specifications here:
GIIAS 2015: Honda BR-V Previewed Live, Possible Launch In Malaysia Come 2016
GIIAS 2015: Previewing The 2016 Honda BR-V’s Interior, And More
Is it coming to Malaysia?
To date, Honda Malaysia has neither confirmed nor denied any plans to introduce the BR-V here, but said that “it is seriously looking into a new product strategy that aims to attract buyers who are upgrading from a Perodua Alza, or even a Proton Exora.” Unofficially, we've learned that the BR-V is almost certain to be coming to Malaysia in the later half of 2016.
Apart from finalising the suitable price point, grade line-up, and market potential, Honda explained that it is important to ensure that the BR-V will attract a new group of buyers who would otherwise not consider a Honda, and that it will not cannibalise sales of the City, Jazz and HR-V.
We have seen the exterior, how about the interior?
At the BR-V’s global debut in Jakarta, we were not allowed to get inside the car so we can’t tell much about its practicality as an SUV/MPV.
We can now tell you that our first impressions of the BR-V is reasonably positive. The key word here is ‘reasonably.’
As mentioned earlier, the BR-V has its origins in lower cost cars so it is not realistic to expect its interior to wow like the HR-V’s. This is perfectly acceptable as long as its final price is significantly lower than the HR-V’s starting price of RM99,690.
Open the grip-type door handle and you will be greeted by an instrument panel and dashboard that’s very similar to the one used in the City and the Jazz (despite its Brio, Brio Amaze and Mobilio origins).
The layout is much better than anything offered by the Toyota Rush, Avanza or Nissan Grand Livina. We were also pleasantly surprised that Honda has decided to maintain the piano black-finished panel on the center cluster, the area surrounding the 7-inch touch-screen infotainment system.
The door panels however, which are hard but not coarse, and devoid of any leather, thick-fold fabric or soft touch materials, is a constant reminder that this is still a car aimed at the lower-end of the price bracket. It’s not a scaled down HR-V for sure.
This is a pre-production example, so the actual series production car’s cabin might see a bit more improvements in finishing but it will not differ significantly from what you see here.
Other cost-cutting measures seen are the single nozzle windshield wiper spray, sun visors with no lights for the vanity mirrors. There is also no dome light on the roof, and the map light in front is the sole source of cabin illumination at night. Open the tailgate, and there’s no light in the boot area either.
There is however a roof-mounted blower on the second row section, which draws cool air from the front and directs them to the second and third row – a major plus point over the Nissan Grand Livina.
The two halves of the second row seats can slide forwards and backwards individually, freeing more legroom for occupants in the third row. That’s a major plus point over the Rush, Avanza and Grand Livina.
They are also very user friendly, as both sides of the seats can be folded and tumbled over with just a one-touch action on the lever under the seat.
Three point seat belts are provided for all occupants, with the one for the middle passenger on the second row mounted on the roof.
Headroom and leg room in the third row is also very reasonable, and is spacious enough to carry a 175 cm adult in the rear in reasonable levels of comfort – as shown in the picture below.
You will still have to bring your knees up and close to you, but it’s definitely much more comfortable than any of the BR-V’s competitors. We don’t have any numbers to show on the cabin’s dimensions but Honda claims that the BR-V’s legroom in the third row is class-leading.
The third row’s seatbacks can also be adjusted to either of two angles for better comfort.
The third row seats can be folded flat by simply pushing down a lever at the lower side, and tumbled over by tugging a strap.
It’s no Ultra Seats, but it’s good enough.
The spare wheel is located under the car.
How does it drive?
Our allotted driving distance was only less than 5 km so we can’t go too much into the details of the driving experience.
Considering its humble origins, our brief first driving impression of the BR-V wasn’t as dreary as expected.
Slot the CVT transmission into D, the BR-V accelerates with good level of urgency. Prod the throttle harder, engine noise remains muffled, suggesting that despite its low-cost origins, Honda has given the BR-V a lot of upgrades over its lower-cost siblings.
The dreaded ‘boomy’ noise from tyre and road roar, amplified by an SUV/MPV’s one-box body design – a typical problem of budget one-box styling cars - are none to be found.
The steering rack is electrically-assisted, but feels much better weighted than even the City’s or Jazz’s, another pleasant surprise. Tuck it into a corner, it maintains sufficient feedback, and feels precise enough for you to correct your lines mid-corner.
It definitely doesn’t steer like a cheap car.
Body roll is typical of an SUV/MPV, but is well-controlled and at no point during the course of the short drive did the car felt dangerously unbalanced.
Turn-in, there isn’t much delay before the weight shifts from sides or front-rear, so body roll is very controlled and instinctive. Push the throttle a bit hard at the corner exit, the rear wheels will chirp and skip but grip at the front remains good despite running on low rolling resistance Bridgestone Ecopia EP150 195/60 R16 tyres.
While it doesn’t drive like a cheap car, the seats however, feels a tad lacking in support but that’s to be expected for this category of cars.
How safe is it?
Depending on the local market’s decision, the BR-V can be had with up to six airbags (the ones planned for Indonesia and Thailand only have two airbags), as well Vehicle Stability Assist. Honda expects the BR-V to achieve no less than the maximum five stars in ASEAN NCAP. The test will only be conducted in 2016, after the model goes on sale in Indonesia.
Will It Come With A 1.5-litre VTEC Turbo Engine?
According to Large Project Leader Mr. Atsushi Arisaka, the engine bay can accommodate the 1.5-litre VTEC Turbo without requiring any significant modifications but there are no plans for a second engine beyond the current 1.5-litre SOHC i-VTEC unit.
He added that the 1.5-litre engine is the optimum solution for the BR-V, which places priority on comfort, affordability, ease of handling, and good fuel economy over spirited driving performance.
While not ruling out any possibilities of adding more engine options in the future, Arisaka-san said until further market feedback show that a more powerful engine is necessary, the 1.5-litre unit will remain the sole power source for the BR-V.
Looking for an SUV? Check out the wide selection of SUVs on
Carlist.my
!


New BMW 7 Series Begins Full-Volume Production Thanks To High-Levels Of Digitalization

BMW has begun production of the new 7 Series limousine at its Dingolfing Plant in Bavaria, Germany.
The production process for the new limousine is supported by a range of innovative solutions. For assembly of less-ordered special equipment, such as
the rear centre console
, the vibrating alarm of a smartwatch alerts employees on the corresponding section of the line that an “exotic” is coming up and gives them instructions for additional work steps.
Data glasses are also used in training new staff. Virtual assistance is projected into the employee’s field of vision as they learn new work steps. This enables rapid, sustainable learning in pre-assembly of complex components like the tail light.
This augmented-reality application is used at assembly training centres and constantly refined in agile working methods in close cooperation between production planning and IT.
Digitalisation is also making further inroads in supplying assembly lines with components. The latest generation of autonomous tugger trains is currently being piloted on longer routes between the warehouse and assembly hall.
The capabilities of driverless tugger trains go beyond automation of earlier solutions. New and smarter logistics helpers will enable dynamic route guidance according to delivery priority, with active obstacle avoidance.
The
new BMW 745Le
 also highlights the Group’s latest hybrid powertrain technology- an electrified six-cylinder 3.0-litre turbocharged engine delivering a system output of 394 horsepower. The new fourth-generation traction battery is also manufactured at the nearby Competence Centre for e-drive Production, together with other hybrid system components.
BMW Plant Dingolfing also produces the
all-new 8 Series
, the entire range of the 5 Series, both the 3 and 6 Series Gran Turismo, and the 4 Series Gran Coupe. Semi-finished body shells (termed body-in-white) for Rolls Royce vehicles are also produced at this massive site.


Pilot Production Of SKYACTIV-D Engines Officially Begins In Thailand

Mazda Motor Corporation held an opening ceremony today at Mazda Powertrain Manufacturing (Thailand) Co., Ltd. (MPMT), the company's new powertrain plant located in Thailand's Chonburi province.
MPMT is Mazda’s first transmission plant outside Japan and had already begun mass production of the SKYACTIV-DRIVE automatic transmission six months ago with a capacity of 400,000 units per year. The automatic transmissions made there will be supplied to Mazda's production facilities in Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Mexico and China.
Additionally, pilot production of the SKYACTIV-D 1.5-litre diesel engine has already begun at the engine plant at MPMT with mass production scheduled to begin in the last quarter of 2015. Its start will mark the completion of a comprehensive framework for the production of SKYACTIV models in Thailand, including manufacture of engines, transmissions and vehicle assembly.
The SKYACTIV-D engine is found on the Mazda 2 and CX-3 and with fuel companies beginning to offer high grade
Euro5 diesel in Malaysia
, could this mean that diesel-powered Mazdas will be making their way here?
In Thailand, the Mazda 2 is offered in both diesel and petrol engines with a 1.5-litre SKYACTIV-D and a
recently introduced 1.3-litre SKYACTIV-G (petrol)
. Closer to home, only the 1.5-litre SKYACTIV-G engine is offered for the 2.
As for the CX-3, it has yet to be launched in Thailand although
spyshots of the compact crossover have been posted online
. The
Mazda CX-3 is estimated to arrive in Malaysia later this year
 with tentative prices starting at RM120k.
"With the start of operations at MPMT, Thailand becomes the first production base outside Japan where Mazda is able to conduct comprehensive vehicle manufacture, including production of engines and transmissions and vehicle assembly," said Mazda's Representative Director, President and CEO, Masamichi Kogai at the ceremony. "Mazda will continue to make our utmost efforts to contribute to the sustained growth of the automobile industry and economy of Thailand."


Fieldman EV Labur RM1 Bilion Untuk Bangunkan Kilang Pemasangan Kereta Elektrik Di Melaka

Syarikat tempatan, Fieldman EV Sdn Bhd (FEV) bakal melabur kira-kira RM1 Bilion bukan sekadar untuk membawa masuk
kereta elektrik
, malah untuk membina sebuah kilang pemasangan kereta elektrik (
CKD
) di kawasan Perindustrian Elkay, Lipat Kajang, Jasin.

Syarikat itu telah berjaya mendapat hak ekslusif pengedaran kereta elektrik di negara ini dan pasaran Asia Tenggara bagi pemanduan sebelah kanan (
Right Hand Drive)
dari syarikat automotif negara China,
Changan Automobile Corporation
.

Ketua Menteri, Datuk Seri Sulaiman Md Ali berkata, kilang seluas 200 hektar yang akan menyediakan kira-kira 5,000 peluang pekerjaan kepada penduduk tempatan akan dibangunkan di kawasan terbabit.

Menurut Sulaiman, kerjasama syarikat tersebut amat dialu-alukan oleh kerajaan negeri
Melaka
 kerana ia bakal memberi manfaat jangka panjang selain membangunkan lagi perkembangan industri automotif di negeri berkenaan.

Beliau berkata demikian kepada media selepas menyempurnakan penyerahan kereta elektrik dan beca elektrik daripada syarikat Fieldman EV Sdn Bhd kepada kerajaan negeri oleh Pengarah Eksekutifnya, Razmi Shah Othman di Seri Negeri, Ayer Keroh, di sini, pada 5 Januari 2021.

Kenderaan yang dipamerkan pada majlis penyerahan antara Fieldman EV dan perbadanan pembangunan negeri Melaka ialah Eado EV460, sedan elektrik sepenuhnya dengan jarak bateri sehingga 550 km dalam pemanduan berterusan, atau 460 km dalam keadaan bercampur menurut syarikat tersebut.

Usaha ini juga akan mewujudkan industri hiliran dalam kalangan industri automotif tempatan, pemindahan teknologi kereta elektrik serta meningkatkan lagi ekonomi Melaka. Mengulas lanjut, beliau berkata, usaha ini juga akan mewujudkan industri hiliran dalam kalangan industri automotif tempatan, pemindahan teknologi kereta elektrik serta meningkatkan lagi ekonomi Melaka.

Syarikat FEV telah melancarkan pelan jangka panjang bagi tempoh 7 tahun yang bermula sejak 2018 hingga tahun 2026. Syarikat ini dijangka akan menerajui perkembangan teknologi dan pemasangan kereta elektrik di Melaka.

Persoalannya, berapa banyak model kereta elektrik Changan yang bakal diperkenalkan oleh syarikat tersebut dan bagaimana pula dengan harga yang bakal ditawarkan?

*Kredit foto: Perbadanan Kemajuan Negeri Melaka


Police In Penang Arrests 45 During Five Hour Ops Samseng

Police in Penang have arrested 45 traffic offenders during Ops Samseng between 12am and 5am on September 6
th
. The individuals caught included the vehicle owners and passengers as well.
According to a report by
The Sun Daily
, northeast district police chief ACP Mior Faridalathrash Wahid said the five-hour operation involved an officer and a further 19 policemen which were posted to Lebuhraya Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu, Jalan Bukit Gambir, Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, Jalan Sungai Dua, Jalan Pekaka, Jalan Lip Sin, Jalan Masjid Negeri, Gelugor Roundabout, and Padang Kota Lama among other George Town areas.
The operation sprang into action when a public tip-off led police to believe a group of road gangsters were planning to gather at Padang Kota Lama for the purposes of illegal street racing.
"With the arrest of 45 people out of the 114 picked up, we averted an illegal road race. Police also seized 11 motorcycles out of the 88 vehicles screened," said Mior.
Apart from those arrested, Mior added that police also had issued 257 summons in that span for various traffic offences such as expired road tax and driving without a valid license.


Parkir Merata Punca Jalan Di Bukit Jalil Sesak – Bahaya Kepada Pengguna Jalan

Kenderaan yang diletakkan secara haram dan merata-rata
 di sepanjang Persiaran Jalil Utama dan Jalan 13/155c di
Bukit Jalil
, Kuala Lumpur menimbulkan bahaya keselamatan kepada pengguna jalan raya.

Kenderaan yang diletakkan secara sembarangan di kedua-dua belah jalan utama ini telah memakan ruang dan menyebabkan kesesakan kepada pengguna jalan raya, berdasarkan laporan The Star.

Parkir Merata Bahayakan Pemandu Lain

Menurut seorang penduduk Bandar Kinrara, Hiu Chee Keong, kereta tersebut menghalang lalu lintas dan meninggalkan ruang yang sempit kepada pemandu untuk bergerak ketika menuju ke jalan utama.

“Saya melalui jalan ini untuk membawa anak perempuan saya ke Pavilion Bukit Jalil dan sering menghadapi kesesakan lalu lintas akibat kenderaan yang diletakkan secara haram,” katanya.

Tambahnya, ada kereta yang diletakkan di kawasan simpang dan ia menghalang penglihatan pemandu apabila ingin membelok, sekali gus menyebabkan tempat itu berisiko untuk berlaku
kemalangan
.

“Pemandu yang ingin membelok terpaksa memasuki lorong paling kanan jalan kerana kenderaan biasanya diletakkan secara haram di lorong kiri,” kata lelaki itu.

Hiu juga berkata bahawa sesetengah pemandu akan membuat pusingan ke jalan utama, memaksa kenderaan masuk untuk menekan
brek
 secara tiba-tiba.

Lebih 100 Kereta Diletakkan Secara Haram

Berdasarkan pemerhatian Hiu, terdapat kira-kira 100 buah kereta yang diletakkan secara haram di kawasan tersebut. Kawasan itu telah diterjah oleh StarMetro dan didapati bahawa kenderaan telah diletakkan secara haram di sepanjang jalan 13/155c sehingga ke pintu masuk jejambat ke lebuh raya Bukit Jalil.

Pemandu tidak mempunyai pilihan selain memperlahankan kenderaan ketika melalui jalan tersebut kerana kenderaan yang diletakkan secara haram menghalang sebahagian jalan. Hiu berkata beliau telah membuat aduan berhubung isu ini melalui laman web “adukl” Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur (DBKL) pada 25 Julai lalu.

Menurut DBKL, pihaknya menerima banyak aduan mengenai parkir haram di kawasan itu dan penguatkuasaan telah dijalankan termasuk mengeluarkan kompaun kepada pesalah trafik. Namun sebagai penduduk yang sering menggunakan laluan itu, Hiu tidak melihat sebarang penambahbaikan terhadap isu parkir haram di kawasan itu.

Beliau berharap pihak DBKL boleh mengambil tindakan lebih tegas seperti menunda kenderaan ini yang boleh menyebabkan halangan kepada pemandu lain.

Perkara itu turut disokong oleh penduduk Pangsapuri Sri Rakyat Bukit Jalil, Mohd Shamsul Mohd Razlan yang mendapati masalah itu semakin meruncing dan hanya menunggu masa sebelum kemalangan berlaku.

“Kebanyakan pemilik kenderaan sama ada bekerja di kawasan komersial berhampiran atau hanya orang ramai yang mahu mengelak daripada membayar parkir,” katanya. Tambah beliau, kehadiran kereta tersebut hanya menunggu masa sebelum kemalangan berlaku.

Menurut The Star, DBKL mengakui perkara itu tetapi masih belum memberi maklum balas buat waktu ini.

*Kredit foto: The Star


New 2018 Volkswagen Golf Mk 7.5 To Be Launched In Malaysia In H1 2018

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has confirmed today that the new Golf Mk 7.5 family will be heading to Malaysia within the first half of this year.
As before, the new Golf facelift’s family will include the front-wheel drive GTI and all-wheel drive Golf R, on top of the regular TSI variants.
Speaking at a Media Roundtable session earlier today, VPCM has also confirmed that the new Golf TSI will be offered with the highest R-Line trim, and will come with a very high list of features, but stopped short of giving any specifics.
In Europe, the new Mk 7.5 Golf gets a new 1.5-litre turbocharged TSI Evo engine. Despite having a larger displacement, the engine will continue to use the same EA211 designation as the 1.4-litre TSI engine that it replaces. The larger engine now produces 150 PS and 250 Nm from 1,500 Nm, identical to the outgoing engine but fuel consumption has been reduced by up to 0.2-litre/100 km.
However, it is unlikely that we will be getting this new engine, as all major right-hand drive markets including Japan and Australia are continuing with the existing 1.4-litre TSI unit from the pre-facelift model.
In Europe, the engine comes equipped with Active Cylinder Management, which shuts down the second and third cylinder when driving under low load conditions, contributing a claimed fuel consumption as low as 4.8-litre/100 km (depending on specifications) when tested under the European combined driving cycle.
The Golf GTI’s 2.0-litre turbocharged engine has also been updated. Depending on variant, power outputs now range from 230 PS/350 Nm to 245 PS/370 Nm. The previous DQ250 6-speed dual-clutch transmission has also been replaced with a new DQ 381 7-speed dual-clutch unit.
As for the all-wheel drive Golf R, the 2.0-litre turbocharged engine now pushes up to 310 PS and 400 Nm of torque, 10 PS more power and 20 Nm more torque than before.
Aside from the obvious visual cues differentiating the new Golf Mk 7.5 from the pre-facelift Mk 7 model, the new Golf will also come with the optional full-colour LCD Active Info Display. Although specifications for Malaysia have yet to be revealed, we think it’s quite likely for the feature to be offered in Malaysia as it’s already available in Passat and Tiguan.
The infotainment system has also been upgraded to Volkswagen’s latest Modular Infotainment Matrix (MIB) unit, with a larger and higher definition 800x480 resolution 6.5-inch screen, equipped with gesture control.
Also available is an even larger 8.0-inch Discover Pro and 9.2-inch Discover Pro system. The latter is available with both touch- and voice-command operation with gesture control in addition to proximity sensors – a world premiere in the compact car segment.
Other highlights include advanced driving aids like Lane Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Front Assist with City Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Monitoring, and Emergency Assist. The latter takes over the control of the vehicle if the driver is, for whatever medical reason, is incapacitated and fails to respond to repeated warnings from the vehicle. When activated, Emergency Assist turns on the hazard lights, intentionally executes gentle steering moves to warn other road users, and gently slows down the car to a stop.
Last year, Volkswagen registered an 8.1 percent increase in sales, deliver 6,536 vehicles, 95 percent of which were locally-assembled at its assembly facility within the DRB-Hicom plant in Pekan, Pahang. After-sales have also been improved, with internal data showing that the ghost of the infamous DSG recall that once plagued the brand has been buried for good.
Related:
Volkswagen Grew 8.1 Percent In 2017, Scores Massive Improvement After-Sales Experience


Government Pressured Into Mandating Use Of Child Seats Following DUKE Fatalities

The Malaysian Consumers Association (Maconas) has urged the Malaysian Government to put into place a legislation that would make it mandatory for infants and young children to be placed in child car seats during road journeys.
According to Bernama, Datuk Amarjit Singh Gill, an Ipoh-based lawyer and the association’s secretary-general said that “it was imperative that such measures be made compulsory to help save lives of young children.” The nation’s focus was turned to the topic of road safety in light of the May 2 accident between two vehicles along the DUKE (Duta Ulu Kelang Expressway) that took the lives of a man, his wife, and their seven-month old daughter.
He continued, “Had the infant been strapped securely in the baby car seat, perhaps her life could have been saved. Thousands of vehicles were driven daily and children ranging from infant to five years of age were at risk as they were seated in the rear without proper restraint. According to a survey, statistics showed that baby car seats reduced the risk of death by 71 per cent for infants, and by 54 per cent for children aged one to five.”
Ross Montoya's
 case is a prime example of how important a child safety seat is. After being involved in a car accident which saw his car slide and eventually roll over, Montoya's two-year old son along with his girlfriend managed to survive the horrific accident. He believes that it was all because his child was in a baby seat.
(Image sourced from
RECARO Child Seats
)
Such a law would bring Malaysia’s child vehicle safety policies further up onto par with other countries that have mandated the practice: Spain, Germany, United Kingdom, Germany, to name a few.
Safety while on the road should always be a paramount concern, and given how much we have our cars loaded with life-saving features and laws that are meant to protect adults, it boggles the mind that that same care and meticulousness isn’t quite matched when it comes to protecting, arguably, our most precious of cargo: children.
In this matter, we firmly believe the only course of action is to mandate the use of child seats. The pros far outweigh the cons.


Volkswagen Driving Experience in JB this weekend

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) will be organizing a Volkswagen Driving Experience this weekend at Angsana Johor Bahru Mall on the 15
th
 and 16
th
 of October 2016.
To be conducted at the mall’s open air carpark A, the Driving Experience aims to provide participants with basic car safety and driving skills, including proper sitting and steering wheel position, emergency braking, defensive driving skills and also maneuvering slalom courses. Members of the public will also be able to watch an exhilarating Vento ‘stunt’ show during the event.
The Volkswagen Vento
 will be used for the Driving Experience, which comes with an award-winning 1.2l TSI turbocharged direct injection engine that is paired with a 7-speed DSG automatic transmission. With the highest torque in its class, the Vento offers superior driving performance that participants will truly enjoy.
The Vento is also rated 5-star by ASEAN NCAP for its range of safety features including Electronic Stability Control (ESC) which participants can put to the test.
Past Driving Experience events had received overwhelming response, with participants enjoying the learning experience on handling various driving conditions, as well as being pleasantly surprised by the Vento’s performance and drivability.
The Volkswagen Driving Experience is free of charge and open to members of the public with a valid driver’s license. There will be a total of five sessions each day, held between 12.00pm and 7.30pm, and each is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Looking for a Volkswagen? Find one now at
Carlist.my


AD: iflix's ‘Caraoke Drift’ Is Guaranteed To Make You Laugh Your Head Off

The world’s leading digital entertainment service for emerging markets, iflix recently announced the launch of its newest show, called ‘Caraoke Drift’.
Featuring Asia’s leading female race car driver and professional drifter Leona Chin, each episode of Caraoke Drift will see a local celebrity taking on the challenge of singing a song, while riding a drifting car.
If you think that this is going to be another show like ‘Carpool Karaoke’, boy, you’re wrong because Caraoke Drift is going to be way funnier and more exciting as every celebrity guest are guaranteed to go off-tune and lose their composure in the middle of a drift. Those of you who have been in a drifting car will surely know what to expect here.
Hosted by Malaysian radio icon JJ, who was formerly a part of the Hitz.FM Morning Crew, Caraoke Drift is all set to make its global debut this month on iflix.
Shot at the Sepang International Circuit, the list of celebrities who will be featured in the first season of Caraoke Drift include:
Maya Karin - Singer & Actress
Adibah Noor - Singer, Host & Actress
Zizi Kirana - Singer
Altimet - Singer & Songwriter
Talitha Tan - Singer & Actress
Fatiya Latiff - Singer & Actress
Sein Qudsi (Ruffedge) - Singer & Director
Mimi Fly - Singer
Amir Jahari - Singer & Songwriter
LoQue - Singer & Songwriter
Zain Hamid (Ruffedge) - Singer & Actor
There will be a total of 10 episodes in the first season of Caraoke Drift, and all of them will be available when the show, which will fall under the iflix ‘FREE’ tier, is released on 11 June 2018.
Caraoke Drift is the brainchild of Studio2:15, iflix’s all new creative production business for short-form video content. Click
here
 to check it out!


Here Is The Genesis G90 Revealed, The New Flagship From Hyundai’s New Luxury Sub-Brand

Roughly one month ago,
Hyundai
 revealed its plans to split its luxury division into
a new sub-brand
 - a new badge under which all their forthcoming premium luxury cars will be sold - called Genesis. It followed that announcement closely with the
teaser of the G90
.
And now, Genesis is ready to fully unsheathe their range-topping saloon to kick off their journey to climb the heights of the premium car industry. This new model will also be called the EQ900 when it goes on sale in Korea. EQ900 which is an acronym reminiscent of Hyundai’s Equus that the G90 indirectly replaces, which previously was the largest and more luxurious car they offered.
That being said, the G90’s measurements are larger than the outgoing Equus and does come close to the
Mercedes-Benz

S-Class
, perhaps deliberately so, at least in its long-wheelbase guise. Since Genesis cannot (yet?) command the kind of price the German flagship saloons, the G90 should be priced along the lines of a
BMW

5-Series
 or Mercedes-Benz
E-Class
.
Its design was overseen by Chief Design Officer Peter Schreyer at Hyundai’s new Prestige Design Division, using a design language they have termed as 'Athletic Elegance', the G90’s shape and road presence is something that Genesis will carry over into their five-vehicle expansion plan that follows this maiden product.
The G90 will offer three engine options to the buyer, starting with a reworked 3.8-litre V6 that produces 311hp, then a new 3.3-litre turbocharged V6 with 365hp, and finally a 420hp 5.0-litre V8 that was previously seen in the Equus. All engines will be transmitting power through an eight-speed automatic transmission before being divided between either its rear wheels or all four using Hyundai's HTRAC all-wheel drive system.
The G90’s cabin is arguably where Genesis wanted to really make strides over Hyundai’s previous efforts, and is perhaps the most important factor that will convince potential buyers. And from these early previews, it looks poised to make the big boys worried. It has upholstery made with Italian leather, trim consisting of wood, aluminium, and polished marble overlay. Its seats are ergonomically certified, with the driver's seat being 22-way power adjustable and 14-way adjustable for the others. There's a surround sound system by Lexicon, wireless phone charging, a central 12.3-inch HD screen in the dashboard and additional media screens for rear passengers.
Genesis, or more accurately Hyundai, has also fitted the G90 with the latest in electronic safety features such as emergency braking with pedestrian detection, adaptive headlights, blind-spot monitoring, and even driver alertness monitoring. Units sold in Korea will also gain a Highway Driving Assistance system which, like cruise control on steroids, will allow for a near-autonomous driving experience.
Speaking of Korea, its home market is where the G90 (under the EQ900 moniker) will be sold first but will be followed up promptly by other markets such as the United States and Europe, with Asian markets next on the list.


PSA Group Reportedly Secures Deal To Build Aisin Gearboxes

PSA Group is currently in talks with Toyota-owned Aisin to assemble their gearboxes at one of their own production facilities, according to a report by
Reuters
.
At the moment, PSA Group purchases both six- and eight-speed Aisin gearboxes that are made in Japan and China. The company uses Aisin gearboxes in its Peugeot, Citroen and DS models. By building the six-speed gearbox in France, PSA can fill production numbers and protect themselves against fluctuating forex.
Aisin currently equips one in five PSA cars sold, simply because automatics are not as popular as manuals in Europe as in North America. That could soon change, as tight emission ruling and demand for electric and hybrid cars are driving manual gearboxes to extinction.
PSA and Aisin declined to comment, though the president of of Aisin, Yasumori Ihara said, "We're absolutely not averse to joint programs with non-Toyota companies." In the same month, PSA Chief Executive Carlos Tavares told plant workers at the Metz facility that an unspecific deal was underway.
Via:
Reuters


DBKL Naik Taraf Laluan Pejalan Kaki– Guna Bollard Mesra OKU

Laluan pejalan kaki yang diletakkan penghadang atau
rubber bollard
 di sekitar Kuala Lumpur akan dinaik taraf secara berperingkat bagi memudahkan
orang kelainan upaya (OKU)
 menggunakan kemudahan tersebut.

Itu adalah langkah yang akan diambil
Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur (DBKL)
 sebagai maklum balas terhadap penularan sebuah video mengenai kesukaran orang awam ketika melalui laluan pejalan kaki yang penuh dengan penghadang sehingga menyusahkan pergerakan.

Tujuan Utama Pasang Bollard

Berdasarkan kenyataan di Facebook DBKL, tujuan utama pemasangan penghadang batu berkenaan adalah untuk menghalang
motosikal dan penjaja
 menggunakan laluan siar kaki tersebut.

Rubber Bollard
 itu dipasang secara berselang-seli atau zig-zag dengan jarak tertentu supaya kenderaan tidak boleh melalui laluan siar kaki.

Menerusi dakwaan netizen bahawa penghadang itu menyusahkan pergerakan mereka yang berkerusi roda mahupun membawa kereta sorong bayi, DBKL menyatakan golongan itu sebenarnya boleh melalui akses tersebut.

Menurut DBKL, video yang tular tersebut dirakam pada sudut hadapan dan mereka yang berkerusi roda atau menolak kereta sorong bayi boleh melepasi halangan itu dari sudut tepi.

Naik Taraf Laluan Pejalan Kaki Secara Berperingkat

Sementara itu, DBKL berkata bollard dipasang secara zig-zag yang tular tempoh hari merupakan produk lama.

Tambah DBKL, kerja-kerja menaik taraf penghadang baharu telah dimulakan sejak bulan lalu.

DBKL telah memulakan pemasangan penghadang baharu yang lebih mesra OKU/kereta sorong bayi di sekitar bangunan DBKL dan ia akan diperluas ke kawasan lain di sekitar ibu kota.


Sporty Geely Bin Rui And SX11 First Products To Ride On Latest Platform

Geely has just announced the two latest products that will be utilizing its latest B-segment Modular Architecture (BMA), the Bin Rui sedan and the SX11 SUV.
BMA is designed to be
 the backbone for products in the B-segment
, with a wheelbase ranging from 2,550 millimetres to 2,700 millimetres, and equipped with a range of small displacement conventional and hybrid powertrains such as the
 1.5TD that was developed with Volvo Cars
.
The Bin Rui (缤瑞) sedan, which was previewed to select media earlier this year, is aimed at the compact segment, specifically at younger consumers due to its sports orientated design, dynamic driving experience and high levels of onboard technology.
The Bin Rui sedan is built on a 2,670-millimetre wheelbase, measuring a length of 4,680 millimetres, and a width of 1,785 millimetres, making it closer to a C-segment product as these figures are actually identical to the dimensions of the Proton Preve.
Popular B-segment models such as the Honda City and Toyota Vios each have a wheelbase of circa 2,600 millimetres and a length of no more than 4,500 millimetres. B-segment cars also traditionally have a width of 1,700 millimetres.
The new SX11 SUV Crossover will be officially unveiled later this year and will utilise a 1.5TD engine jointly developed by Geely Auto and Volvo Cars. With its 177 hp and 255 Nm of torque, the SX11 achieved an average 0 – 100 km/h acceleration time of 7.9 seconds in a recent benchmarking test, faster than many of its rivals, including those from luxury brands.
Both the Bin Rui sedan and the SX11 Crossover will be officially launched in the third and fourth quarters of 2018.


UK Police Fleet Expanded With Ford Ranger Raptor And Focus ST Estate

Ford announced yesterday that Police forces across the UK are all set to try out Ford’s latest blue-light vehicle – the Ford Ranger Raptor.

Fitted with Fox shock absorbers and Baja desert race mode as standard, the Ranger Raptor has more than enough to keep up with crims making a getaway across gravel, mud, and even sand.

According to Ford, the South Wales Police are among the first to use the Ford Ranger Raptor pick-up, which may prove to be the perfect tool to access some of the UK’s most rural locations.

And there’s no point trying to outsmart the police on-road, either, as evaluations of the Ford Focus ST estate are underway, too.

Both are the product of Ford’s Special Vehicle Preparation team, in Essex, which has added full Police livery with all-round emergency lights and sirens.


Proton X50 Teaser Image Leaked From Proton Dealer In Bintulu?

Another week and it's another Proton X50 teaser - this time from a Proton dealer in Bintulu. It's obvious the excitement for this highly anticipated SUV is bubbling over to our family in Sabah and Sarawak.

From the photo above we see the silhouette of the Proton X50 behind its bigger sibling the Proton X70. While we can't confirm the veracity of said image it does look a lot like a teaser image that may have been
leaked
?

While waiting for the official launch we've listed what we think we know about the
Proton X50
 so far.

We think that:

It will come in two engine variants - 1.4 & 1.5

It will be launched in September or October

It will come with dual-zone climate control, N95 air filter, panoramic sunroof, power-adjustable driver’s seat and a 10.25-inch display

It will come with Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Monitoring

Starting price from RM85,000

So how to separate fact from fiction, fake news from the truth? Wait for official confirmation from Proton lah, it's not easy we know, as we're all eagerly awaiting the arrival of the Proton X50, I don't recall a time when we were as excited about a Malaysian vehicle.

To the 33,000 and counting of the Proton X50 Community Malaysia on Facebook, kita harap bersabar ye, it shouldn't be too long now...

Talk is cheap so talk all you want, but please do not part with your hard-earned money to make a
booking
 for the Proton X50. Pricing pun tak official lagi, apa nak book?!


Singapore 2019: Volvo Shows Off The S60

Are you sick of Volvo's onslaught of new models? No? Neither are we. They're gorgeous machines, the best combination of Scandinavian design and an underlying mischief in the form of surprisingly good handling and performance. The S60 and V60 are the next models to come, with the XC90, S90, V90, XC60, and XC40 already widely available around the world. The S60 was launched just last year, being the first Volvo model to be assembled in the USA and a good step forward for the North American market.
But that's besides the point. We're more eager in when the S60 will be coming to us, as it has been long, long overdue for a replacement. While it didn't quite make it to our shores, a unit was sent over to the Singapore Motor Show for the public to catch in person. It's a left hand drive model, which means the Singapore market isn't going to be getting it just yet, but it was an opportunity for us to see it up close as well.
It's no surprise that the new S60 follows the design language we've come to know from modern Volvos, as they've made it clear it will be a consistency whether you're in an S90 or an XC40. This is a T5 unit, which means it comes with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four cylinder petrol engine that pushes a healthy 245 hp and 350 Nm, all sent to the front wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission. It's a powertrain we're familiar with, and is the second most powerful engine-only option, short only of the twincharged T6 variants.
The S60 sits on the Scalable Product Architecture, or SPA, platform that is found in other 60 and 90 series models in the Volvo range. It's a great platform that was the big jump off point for Volvo and truly separated their new models from the products of old. Proper geometry and suspension tuning meant less electronic measures to numb the problems of high torque front wheel drive machines, and the S60 should be an exciting car to drive.
There's no word on when we will be getting either the S60 or the V60 in our country, but it's likely that the variants on offer will mirror that of the XC60 - a T5 variant and a T8 hybrid variant. Either option would be fantastic and would make the S60 highly competitive in class. To read up on the S60's specifications from launch, check out our story
here
.


Perodua Sentral Opens For Business: Flagship 3S Centre Stands Tall In PJ

As part of its “customer satisfaction transformation initiative,”
Perodua
 has just opened a brand-new flagship 3S centre in Section 19, Petaling Jaya, called Perodua Sentral.
“It will be a 'game changer' as we continue to strengthen our brand and position in the domestic market while increasing our visibility in the regional footprint,” Perodua President & CEO, Datuk Aminar Rashid Salleh said.
Aminar also mentioned that the services offered at the new Perodua Sentral facility were a result of a five-year study within its “transformation initiative” to be “globally competitive.”
“Perodua Sentral is a new beginning, a new transformation for Perodua as we work to delight our customers on a personal level from the very moment he or she enters our gates,” Aminar said.
“This facility will also have Perodua’s very own café within the showroom, which will feature a signature dish for anyone who wishes to stop by and visit us,” Aminar said.
Standing tall in Section 19, the RM40-million flagship 3S centre features two basement parking levels with a total of 184 parking bays, a sales showroom, 37 service bays, two floors for sales and after sales operations, and a dedicated floor for events.
Perodua is also working to replicate what they’ve done here in various other regions nationwide.


Jaguar XE SV Project 8 Becomes Fastest Saloon Car To Lap Nurburgring

Jaguar’s Special Vehicle Operations (SVO)-developed XE SV Project 8 is now the world’s fastest four-door car, following a production-intent prototype’s record lap of the Nürburgring Nordschleife.
The record time of 7 minutes and 21 seconds, which is 11 seconds quicker than the previous record holder; Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, was set by British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) racing driver Vincent Radermecker in the car which was prepared by SVO’s engineers, fitted with 265/35 R20 and 305/30 R20 Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres.
Available as a four-seat sedan or with an optional weight-saving two-seat Track Pack which includes front carbon fibre racing seats with four-point harnesses,  the XE SV Project 8 is powered by a 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine which produces 600 hp and 700 Nm of torque.
Limited to only 300 units, the XE Project 8 comes with a few interesting performance parts such as the fully adjustable suspension, aerodynamics and electronic systems which can be configured in Track Mode, vented carbon fibre bonnet, adjustable carbon fibre front splitter, carbon fibre rear spoiler, as well as carbon ceramic brakes.
Mark Stanton, director of Jaguar Land Rover’s SVO division said, “The SVO design and engineering team’s mission was to create the most track-focused road-legal Jaguar in history – not only the fastest, but also the most agile.”
As a result, only the roof and front door skins of Project 8’s body are carried-over unaltered from the regular XE, while about 75 per cent of its mechanical hardware is completely new.


Is The CKD CX-30 Actually Going To Be Offered In Malaysia And Would It Make Any Difference?

For some time now, there have been conflicting reports about the CKD-assembled version of Mazda’s CX-30 SUV, some media outlets have said a 2021 introduction is possible, however, Mazda themselves have just confirmed that the CX-30 CKD program will not commence until 2023 at the earliest.

Ignoring the obvious benefits and cost-savings of localising the materials and the overall assembly of the CX-30 – yes, it would be cheaper, and
yes, we think it’s a great car
; but the question remains is it a notable priority for local brand principal Bermaz Auto Berhad, and if so do we really need one?

The lowdown on the CX-30

Launched in January 2020
 – the CX-30 slots in between the CX-30 and the larger CX-5. From a segment perspective, the CX-30 is best described as a C-segment crossover/coupe SUV as it is based on the Mazda 3 platform as opposed to the Mazda 2 platform with the CX-3.

Four variants are offered, ranging between RM143k and RM173k, with the most expensive variant offered with the 1.8-litre Skyactiv-D turbodiesel. The former three are powered by the (162hp and 213Nm) 2.0-litre naturally aspirated Skyactiv-G engine.

So will it come in 2021?

Err, most likely no. 2020 was an immensely challenging year for Bermaz. The company only delivered a total of 9,484 units in 2021, versus the phenomenal 15,844 units delivered in 2019. That represents an approximate drop of 40 percent – that’s huge, for a company of its relatively small size.

Though not through any fault of their own, in addition to the slowdown in most of Q1 and Q2 of 2020, Bermaz were also fighting protracted delays in vehicle stock deliveries, and vehicle pricing delays for the
facelifted CX-5
 and already
CKD-assembled CX-8
. These two arguably two more important models to Mazda given their buyer base.

According to their latest group financial report, the emphasis on the production side for 2020 requires the company to “
continuously seek ways to increase local content and reduce the cost of its CKD models. In addition, MMSB and Inokom will continue to upgrade their plant facilities to increase their production capacities as well as to improve on efficiency and quality,”

This along, with combating the shortage of stock and clearing any backlog of pending customer deliveries would surely rank higher on their to-do-list in 2020, then to introduce another CKD model which could complicate matters.

Do they need they really need to CKD the CX-30?

Of course, a CKD-assembly operation, along with the localisation of parts would reduce the relatively high prices of the CX-30. Mazda has historically achieved a priced reduction of between RM8k-13k between its fully-imported and CKD vehicles.

This would of course be good for their bottom line and sales of the CX-30, pricing it closer to the likes of other B-segment crossovers such as the
Honda HR-V
 would undoubtedly swing price-conscious buyers their way.

However, the CX-30 remains a niche product, even with the aforementioned price reductions, the CX-30 will likely still have to compete with the cars such as the
Honda CR-V
 and Nissan X-Trail. And that’s a really tough market.

Despite the immense hype the Toyota CH-R created at its launch, Toyota axed it (roughly 2 years after its introduction) from their range, simply because it’s too niche, and too expensive for what it is.

How about 2022?

The question that needs to be asked is why would Bermaz drop their precious dollars into the CX-30 CKD operation before knowing it can sustain the sort of sales not 1 or 2 but 5 years after its launch?

Time will certainly tell, because 2021 will be a test of attrition for Mazda, and it will need to rely on its more successful models to regain solid footing, the CX-5, CX-8 and the
Mazda 3
 sales are more important than the CX-30 to achieve this.

Another anecdotal evidence (and must be treated as just so) of whether this is possible in 2022, is how many CX-30s have you seen on the roads lately?

The other question to ask is, with the might of UMW Toyota banking big on the upcoming
Corolla Cross SUV
, the impending arrival of the
all-new Honda HR-V
 and
Proton dominating the SUV sales segment
 between the RM80k and RM120k marque, is there adequate space even for the CKD CX-30 to live in?

In any case, I sincerely do wish for a CKD version of the CX-30 and wouldn't put it beyond Bermaz to pull this very special cat, out of the bag.


DRB-Hicom To Discuss Geely Offer Next Week

DRB-Hicom is set to hold a board meeting with Geely next week to discuss a sale of a stake in Proton.
Sources familiar with the matter said that DRB-Hicom is looking to sell a minority stake in Proton and a controlling stake in Lotus to Geely.
According to
The Star
, PSA Group prefers a controlling stake in Proton.
Both representatives from PSA and Geely declined to say anything.
DRB-Hicom has earlier mentioned that the search for Proton's foreign strategic partner is expected to be completed by the first half of 2017.
Earlier in March, DRB-Hicom released a statement saying that all bidders are still in the running to be selected as Proton's partner. "Our intent is to turn around the fortunes of PROTON. There are strengths and capabilities of the carmaker that, given a new proven partner that can offer technology, capabilities and new markets, will push PROTON as a brand to be reckoned with," DRB-Hicom Group Managing Director, Dato' Sri Syed Faisal Albar.


Waze: The Best And Worst Hours To Drive This Ramadan

It's that time of year again. In the coming month, Ramadan will be upon us and we will face some of the harshest rush hour traffic all year. Thankfully, Waze has announced that they've figured out the best and worst times to be on the road. Even if you don't use the Waze app, it's a good read to help you plan your travels. Now of course if you're observing Ramadan, there may not be as much flexibility with your travel times, but for those who aren't, this information may help you escape the traffic.
For the morning rush, Waze predicts that traffic is expected to be the worst around 8 to 11 am on weekdays, with it only easing up by 3 pm. For those who are getting an early start to their day with Sahur prayers, it would be prudent to head to work before 8 am.
Fast food restaurants are a staple for most as they're quick and easy to access. That being said, you can expect there to be long queues and limited seating, so time your fast food visits for after 9 pm if you really need to satisfy that craving. From 4 pm to 7 pm, there will be crowds lining up to buy food for buka puasa.
Malls are another tough point as the jams will build from 5 to 6 pm. That being said, if you plan to visit a mall and aren't in a hurry to eat dinner, 7 pm would be the best time to do so. Most folks who are breaking fast will have found their parking and will be getting ready to eat.
If you have a need to visit a bank, it would be best to do so after 4 pm. At 8 am and between 12 and 3 pm, there will be large crowds or jams at banks as that's the most opportune time to withdraw money or conduct transactions.
And finally, we have gas stations - an often overlooked part of your journey. Waze suggests that if you have to vist a gas station, the best times to do it is at 8 am or 7 pm, while the worst times would be between 3 pm and 6 pm.


Paying The Cost To Be The Boss - Review: 2021 Mazda 2 Sedan facelift

The
Mazda 2 Sedan
 might be the forgotten B-segment car, but it still has plenty to offer if your use for it is right.

The B-segment sedan or compact sedan market is an area where competition is high. All of the cars in this segment are pretty much value for money, give buyers a lot of space from a small cabin, fuel-efficient, provides a comfortable ride, and has a considerably large boot space relative to their size.

However, not exactly all of them fit that stereotypical mould, because among this group of cars sits the facelift
Mazda 2
 sedan, a vehicle with its own groove which doesn't really care what the rest are doing or trying to accomplish.

The facelift Mazda 2 is a super compact sedan that is forgotten due to its price. With a
C-segment infringing
 bumper price of RM101k, it is the most expensive car amongst its peers and also the smallest car in its class.

Where it may lack in value for money and space, it makes up for in an abundance of character, joy and 'premium-ness' - something that its competitors find hard to rival.

The
exterior design
 is typical Mazda of the current generation, in the sense that it will bode well with fashionistas. From its sleek squinty aggressive headlights to its prominent chrome-frame grille and sleek bumper, it's a car that demands compliments about its looks everywhere it goes.

But the thing that buyers will appreciate most about the Mazda 2 is the way it drives, because in our opinion, it's probably the best handling car in this class. It's chuckable yet forgiving, agile as well as comfortable and has a pretty lovely weight to its steering. In short, if you love to drive a car and enjoy taking it enthusiastically around the corner, then you'll love the Mazda 2 sedan.

This fun yet forgiving driving character of the Mazda 2 sedan is aided by Mazda's G-Vectoring Control system (
GVC
),a synergy between powertrain and chassis that uses the engine to optimize load control. It never really feels unsettled when going around corners fast, it's always composed. If you wish to take it down a notch and relax, the Mazda 2 can deliver that too. Its ride is firm but cushy and really does well to absorb any imperfections on the road.

The other strong point of the Mazda 2 sedan is probably its refinement. The SKYACTIV-G 4-cylinder 1.5-litre engine with 114hp and 149Nm of torque is smooth and feels eager to get going. The refinement doesn't end there too, as the cabin benefits from having a smooth operator under the bonnet. NVH is better than average when compared to its competitors, and wind noise is really muted at high speeds.

While the interior is cramped, it does feel very thought out and well built. Everything feels solidly put together like a well built European car. While the choice of blue and grey colour combo on the particular Mazda 2 sedan we were lent will not be to everyone's taste, we could appreciate that Mazda is trying to be funky, giving the cabin a bit more character than what you can get from its competitors. The driving position is another thing we liked in the Mazda 2, as there are plenty of adjustments at the steering wheel and driver's seat to give you that optimal driving position.

Speaking of driving positions, the infotainment screen is perfectly placed and is always in your eye line. It is also easy to navigate through an operable clickwheel in the middle of the console. The graphics do feel a bit dated, but the system connects to a phones swiftly and you'll be happy to know that it supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

One of the areas where the Mazda 2 is lacking is its safety systems. With only two airbags and passive safety systems such as traction control, stability control and anti-lock braking system, it does make you wonder what you are spending your RM100k + on.

Well, what you are paying for is a fun and engaging B-segment sedan that will appease a true driver. You are also paying for five years of peace with Mazda's free service and maintenance, which includes everything from labour, parts, and lubricants. That's right, for five years, you are practically set and don't need to spend one RM.

But the question and the elephant in the room still remains, are you willing to pay RM101k for a small sedan that isn't as practical as its competitors? That answer to that question really does rely on what you want to use the car for? If it's something to do with family, then no, but if its purely for driving pleasure and a fast roundabout vehicle, then the Mazda 2 sedan is the one for you.

Specifications

Engine: SKYACTIV-G 4 Cylinder 1.5-litre

Horsepower: 114 hp

Torque: 149 Nm

Safety: 2 airbags, ABS, DSC, EBD, EBA, TCS, ESS, HLA, ISOFIX

Price: from RM100,770


Lexus RX300 F Sport Hilang Di Pusat Servis, Ansuran Bulanan Tetap Berjalan

Seorang pelanggan berputih mata setelah SUV mewah miliknya,
Lexus RX300 F Sport
 dicuri ketika menjalani penyelenggaraan berjadual di sebuah pusat servis kenderaan di Ayer Keroh, Melaka.

Menurut pemilik, Tay Han Sin, kejadian ini berlaku pada 25 Ogos lepas ketika beliau menghantar
SUV
tersebut di tempat servis yang sama untuk kali kedua.

*Kredit foto: Utusan

Kereta Dilarikan Ketika Dihantar Servis

Menurut laporan Utusan, ketika kereta ditinggalkan, pemilik telah dimaklumkan bahawa keretanya telah dibawa keluar oleh seseorang selepas selesai menjalani
penyelenggaraan
.

Perkara ini telah mengejutkan pemilik kerana pusat servis memaklumkan bahawa keretanya telah diambil, sedangkan beliau baru sahaja berniat untuk berbuat demikian.

Hasil semakan kamera litar tertutup (CCTV) di premis itu mendapati seorang lelaki yang tidak dikenali yang bertindak mengambil kunci berkenaan.

Susulan kejadian itu, aduan di peringkat dalaman serta laporan polis telah dibuat. Bagaimanapun, pemilik menyatakan rasa terkilan dengan layanan pusat servis berkenaan yang tidak banyak membantu untuk menyelesaikan masalah ini.

*Gambar hiasan

Kereta Hilang, Hutang Tetap Jalan

Lebih parah, pemilik baru sahaja menggunakan kereta itu selama enam bulan. Walaupun kereta itu masih gagal dikesan, namun beliau tetap perlu membayar ansuran kereta berharga lebih RM2,000 sebulan.

Berdasarkan laporan, masih tiada jawapan kukuh berhubung kejadian diberikan pusat servis terlibat meskipun telah hampir sebulan menunggu.

Ini kerana kes tersebut masih dalam siasatan dalaman membabitkan pelbagai pihak termasuk polis.

Sementara itu, Pengerusi Pusat Pengaduan Awam MCA Melaka, Dennis Lee Han Lim berkata proses untuk menyelesaikan isu ini akan mengambil sedikit masa.

Tambahnya, pihak syarikat dan insurans sudah mengetahui perkara ini dan akan membuat keputusan berdasarkan maklumat yang diterima termasuk siasatan pihak polis.

“Saya menyeru kepada semua pihak untuk meningkatkan ciri keselamatan di premis masing-masing terutamanya yang melibatkan harta milik pelanggan. Kes kecurian membabitkan pusat servis kereta mungkin taktik baharu dan orang ramai diminta lebih berhati-hati,” katanya.


Porsche Takes Wheels To A Whole New Level - Made From Carbon Fibre

Porsche has become the world’s first vehicle manufacturer to offer light-weight wheels, constructed with braided carbon fibre. The new wheels are now only available as an option for the Porsche 911 Turbo S Exclusive Series, measuring 9.0J x 20 for the front axle and 11.5J x 20 at the rear axle.
The use of carbon fibre which shaves around 8.5 kilograms off from than standard alloy wheels, which delivers a ‘unsprung’ weight reduction of 20 per cent. The carbon fibre wheels are also 20 percent stronger and perfectly optimised for absorbing longitudinal and lateral forces. A testament to over 2 million kilometres of testing.
Manufactured entirely from carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP), the wheel is essentially comprised of two components -
First, the wheel centre, made from carbon-fibre fabric, involves cutting and assembling over 200 individual components.
The second component is the rim base made from braided carbon fibre, made by the world’s largest carbon fibre braiding machine - with a diameter of approximately nine metres.
The assembled wheel is then impregnated with resin and pre-hardened at high pressure and high temperatures. The finished wheel is hardened at high temperatures followed by a long cooling process. The central lock is then inserted into the finished wheel and the wheel is protected with clear lacquer.
Porsche is the first company globally to use this complex braiding technology over the more conventional method of manufacturing from pre-impregnated carbon-fibre fabric.
Porsche claims that this production technique allows for the material structure of the carbon to be denser and more compact while increasing rigidity at the same time.


BMW’s Concept Compact Sedan Is The Slick 1 Series Sedan We’ve Been Waiting For

Those cheeky Germans up in Munich chose to unveil their newest design and engineering exercise, which they have dubbed the Concept Compact Sedan, at the 2015 Auto Guangzhou motor show while most of us have had our sights set across the pacific at the Los Angeles Motor.
Now, despite being the all-forgiving label of Concept, this
BMW
 is clearly a four-door sedan version of the
1 Series
 that, to our eyes at least, looks very much grounded in today’s reality - there’s no absurdly large wheels, no drive-by-hologram system, no levitation - so we’re inclined to believe we’ll be seeing a 1 Series sedan quite soon. The ‘Concept’ even has a dashboard that, while strewn with glowing orange accents, look awfully similar those fitted to existing models.
The Concept Compact Sedan sits on a stretched out wheelbase compared to the current 1 Series, with shorter overhangs front and rear. But the traditional BMW details are all accounted for - the  overall athletic stance, shoulder lines stretching the length of the car, the C-pillar kink, and of course the double-kidney grill up front.
However, rather confusingly, BMW says that the Concept Compact Sedan was designed with China’s youth in mind, hence the unveiling in Guangzhou. Hinting that should it be put into production, would be limited to be sold in only a single, but very large, market. We don’t quite understand why, and would imagine that customers would be very keen on this car regardless of their country. And indeed, as far as we can tell there’s absolutely nothing about this Concept that would lend itself exclusively to the China market.
No word yet on what powertrain lies underneath the Concept Compact Sedan, but should it reach production under the 1 Series banner, could inherit its current crop of petrol and diesel engines. Shoehorning BMW’s 320hp 3.0-litre N55 turbocharged straight-six engine from the
M135i
 would certainly be an interesting development not outside the realm of possibility. This would turn a 1 Series Sedan, should it come to pass, into a baby
M3
. Excellent.
Do what must be done, BMW, you magnificent Bavarians.


The New Lexus IS Turbo is Upon Us. We Can Feel It.

Those who visited Lexus Malaysia’s official website over the past week would’ve noticed something interesting – the discreet announcement that the 2017 IS is ‘coming soon’.
And just as we found that out, the brand also happened to release a new promo video for the sedan on YouTube just yesterday.
First revealed at last year’s Beijing International Auto Show, the new IS is armed with a fresh new look and a number of important changes.
From what we can see, the entire front fascia of the new model has undergone a transformation, highlighted by new headlamps, large air intakes in the front bumper and an evolution of Lexus’ spindle grille.
And then, we have the F Sport grille, which features an exclusive 3-dimentional F-mesh pattern, with jet-black metallic coating that incorporates functional brake ducts. Meanwhile, changes to the rear are highlighted by more pronounced “L”-shaped LED light guides that are now triple layered within the taillight housing and new rectangular chrome exhaust tips that accentuate the car’s sporting nature.
Inside, the first thing that’s sure to catch your eye is the multimedia display screen that has grown from 7 inches to 10.3 inches. The new high-resolution monitor offers a larger and clearer image of the various functions of Lexus’ innovative multimedia system. Also, “Enter” buttons have been added to the sides of the Remote Touch Interface (RTI) on the center console.
Under the hood however, the new IS remains unchanged. Power is supplied by the
recently-added 2.0-liter twin-scroll turbocharged inline-4
 engine with intercooler, which comes mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. While maximum power is rated at 240hp at 5,800rpm, peak torque readings stand at 350Nm at 1,650 to 4,400rpm.
Last but not the least, the new IS has been upgraded with the Lexus Safety System +, which combines Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert (LDA) with Steering Assist, Automatic High Beam (AHB) and Radar Cruise Control.
Having been on sale in Japan since last October, we expect the new IS to be arriving here within the next few months.


Residents’ Firm Stance Against DASH Gets Project Axed From PJ Local Plan 2

The PJ Local Plan 2 has omitted its plans to include the construction of the Damansara-Shah Alam Highway (DASH), pending a realignment proposal from the project concessionaire, Prolintas.
According to
The Sun Daily
, the move stemmed from the protestations and objections voiced by the residents of Mutiara Damansara and Damansara Perdana, who set up a grassroots campaign against the project.
Selangor state executive councillor for environment Elizabeth Wong said this prompted Mentri Besar Mohamed Azmin Ali’s decision to overturn the plans.
"They (residents) met the Mentri Besar and he agreed to remove it (Dash). It's no longer in RTPJ2," Elizabeth said, and added that the resident group, Say No To DASH (SNTD), are pushing to make the removal permanent.
The concerns raised were mainly to do with the flawed and obsolete Environment and Traffic Impact Assessments (EIA and TIA). Michelle Wong, an SNTD spokesperson said that, additionally, the assessment reports themselves were not conducted independently but paid for by Prolintas.
This violates the guidelines stipulated in the Economic Planning Unit of the Prime Minister’s Department that such a project would have to undergo an independent Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA).
Michelle said both studies were conducted in 2011 and approved in 2012, but since then there have been drastic changes to the area, rendering the studies, flawed as they may be, redundant.
"The EIA remains as it was in 2012, but we have had new roads, new houses, and the MRT here now. How can they say the environment is still the same after all that?" she told reporters.
Prolintas’ TIA also did not provide a compelling reason to its claim that over 50,000 cars from other roads will be using DASH upon its projected completion. The upcoming MRT line will provide further access to Mutiara Damansara and Damansara Perdana as well as the Rubber Research Institute (RRI) and Kota Damansara, leaving no real need for the highway.
"Basically this highway has no apparent benefit whatsoever. Why do you need another highway when there will be public transport in the future?" she asked.
Michelle ended by saying: “SNTD is not against development, but it should come with due process and not at the cost of posing serious health risks and other dangers to the local populace.”


Perodua Ventures Into Selling Pre-Owned Models, Tight-Lipped On New Car Price Increases

During the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show last week,
Perodua
 president and CEO Datuk Aminar Rashid spoke about how the company was facing new economic challenges and margin compression from new car sales. This is mainly due to the weaker ringgit paired with the higher marketing expenses.
With that, Perodua has plans to stretch is business to include the retail sales of pre-owned vehicles, seeing that there used car market is more lucrative than the new car market in this economic climate (
told ya
). The company would also strive to improve its after-sales services to complement the pre-owned vehicles (POV) strategy, writes The Star.
The new pre-owned strategy would reportedly entail taking used cars as trade-ins and refurbishing them for resale with a manufacturer warranty of between six to 12 months, very similar to what is being done by other marques.
“The original plan was to launch the company’s POV branch in the fourth quarter of this year, but we hope to have the first POV in the Klang Valley by next year,” he said.
He added Perodua would only use cars that are not older than seven years for its pre-owned vehicle programme and that up to September 2015, Perodua had received around 3,500 trade-in units. It is estimated to rise to 4,800 units by the year end.
By taking the sales of Perodua-branded used cars into its own hands, they would be able to better influence the resale value of its cars while simultaneously provide an alternative means for customers who cannot afford their new cars.
Upon being asked if Perodua was planning to announce price increases in light of the weaker Ringgit, Aminar said the company was monitoring the possibility but did not disclose anything further.
“The stronger US dollar and yen have impacted 2% to 3% of our bottom line three months ago, and now it has gone up to 5%,” Aminar added.
“We are studying the situation very closely, because I have to admit our costs have been increasing. If possible we want to avoid such a move until a point when we are no longer able to absorb the costs,” he said.


New Safety Updates For Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai has added an unspecified number of safety improvements for its Tucson. According to ANCAP, Tucson models produced in South Korea after 17-November 2015, and 16-December 2015 for European-market models produced in the Czech Republic, have received some safety updates to improve its safety in frontal offset collisions.
As a result, the upgraded Tucson will see its ANCAP rating improved from the four stars it received in September 2015 to five stars.
“It is encouraging to see Hyundai make a number of design and production changes to improve the safety of the vehicle and we commend them for acting quickly to implement the improvements,” ANCAP Chief Executive Officer James Goodwin said.
“The changes significantly improved the vehicle’s performance in the frontal offset test which would reduce the possibility of injury to occupants in the event of a crash,” he said.
“This is a positive example of the importance of local, independent testing and ANCAP working proactively with vehicle brands to ensure we have the safest vehicles on the Australasian market,” Mr Goodwin said.
“Consumers considering purchasing a new or used Tucson should check the build date to avoid any confusion over the ANCAP safety rating,” he said.
It is not known if the updates are also applicable to the models sold in Malaysia. The Malaysian-market Hyundai Tucson is locally-assembled at the Inokom plant in Kulim, Kedah.
Last year, the
Tucson was given a four-star rating by ANCAP
, after its body structure performed poorer than expected in a 64 km/h frontal offset collision test with a deformable barrier, leading to a compromise in the structural integrity of the driver’s foot well, and excessive movement of the brake pedal.


Geely Preface Ad – Real Sportscar Substance or Just Wayang Sandiwara?

The Geely Preface takes on the M4, C63 AMG and Panamera - but is it all a wayang?

They say imitation is the purest form of flattery – and one can understand, that when you're new in the business, it makes sense to simply do what your more established rivals are doing, before you decide to reinvent the wheel, or evolve the concept ever so slightly. However, from the looks of it, Geely isn’t looking to imitate its rivals from BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Porsche – it apparently is ready to show them how it’s done.

In its latest ad for its upcoming Preface flagship sedan, Geely has taken a swipe at rivals such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche, yes, you read that right. If you haven’t already seen it, here’s a recap.

Another thing that you’ll notice is that the featured cars are not your regular 3 Series of C-Class models, but the high-performance M4 and C63 AMG models respectively, not to mention the Panamera. All stalwarts of their genre’s with decades of heritage, expertise, and crucially, highly-developed powerplants under their hoods.

Now before we get into the whole Geely is making a giant-killer that can overtake a C63 AMG on the outside of a blind-corner, and pass a Panamera like it's standing still – we should investigate if the Preface has the substance to back up its ambitious advertising and bold claims. Or, on the other hand, are Geely simply trying to be evocative in their flattery for those iconic ‘rivals’.

It does look superb!

Geely's design has come a long way in just a few years. They have managed to etch out a recognisable design thanks to its Expanding Cosmos grille, snazzy headlight assemblies, and the muscular overall proportions apparent on their other SUV and sedan models.

As far as the Preface is concerned, rarely do we see production cars looking almost exactly like the concept vehicle. Save the outlandish suicide-style rear doors of the 2019 concept, the production model – due sometime in Q4 of this year – retains a wide, low sedan stance and long wheelbase to accentuate its size and interior space.

At the front, the Expanding Cosmos grille sits ahead of the headlight assembly in much the same way as the Volvo S60, while the three large air intake zones somewhat remind us of the sporty front of the Polestar 1 performance hybrid. Round the sides, a bold shoulder line runs the length of the car’s flanks, disappearing slightly around the edges of the front fenders, taking a page out of some recent Audi models, but it is tastefully rendered nonetheless. Round the back, the moulded rear fascia seamlessly integrates the rear taillights. Elsewhere, the rear diffuser section is flanked by a pair of ‘oblong looking’ tailpipe finishers, very much like the Bentley’s of yore.

Overall, the Preface cuts fresh yet striking looks that will definitely earn it some fans. In many ways, it has the same wow factor the Kia Stinger had just a few years back. The Stinger had pretty much stunned the world with its gutsy looks and flamboyant details, and we suspect the Preface should be no different when it comes out in its finished form.

Can it really overtake a BMW M4 on a twisty stretch of road?

Well, we suspect not. Granted the Preface looks flat on its feet and planted in the corners, camera trickery and expert editing should not blind you from the BMW M4’s stellar pace and race-bred chassis. With 454 hp from its 3.0-litre turbocharged six-cylinder engine, and a 3.9 second 0-100 km/h time, it’ll be a monumental challenge to take on an M4 on a twisty backroad, even more so... to overtake it.

However, Geely will undoubtedly benefit from the group’s involvement and participation in the World Touring Car Racing (WTCR) championship through its Lynk & Co. works racing team. Not to mention, Volvo’s performance sub-brand Polestar, which has many years of racing under its belt in the Australian Supercar series. These lessons learnt on track, if effectively applied to the Preface, should give it the chassis and handling credentials to take on established rivals such as the BMW M4.

Will it have more power than a Mercedes-AMG C63?

Again, we doubt it.
Marklines reported
 that the Preface – which is underpinned by the award-winning Volvo/Geely CMA platform – will use a Volvo Drive-E 2.0-litre TD engine. The Drive-E 2.0L TD engines have featured in several Volvo models (since mid-2015) such as the S60, S90, and XC90 models. The most powerful version of the Drive-E 2.0L TD outputs 316 hp and 400 Nm of torque, which featured in models assigned with the ‘T6’ badge. Other powertrains suited for the CMA platform is the ‘T5’ engine featured on the XC40 – which outputs around 252 hp and 350 Nm, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Note too that the CMA platform is also designed to accommodate hybrid powertrains.

In all cases, these power numbers are not shabby, but they still remain a tad bit shy of the 503 hp the 4.0-litre turbocharged V8 the C63 ‘S’ is capable of producing. So yes, good effort but far from earth-shattering performance.

Could it really be as luxurious as a Porsche Panamera?

Well, that’s anyone’s guess, shy of a few glimpses of the gear shifter, steering wheel and centre console, we don’t have much else to go on with regard to interior build quality and design. The Preface Concept highlights a beautifully tranquil interior with a semi-transparent instrument panel and hexagonal steering wheel. Well, we can’t confirm either from the ad, but let us phrase this question another way, have you ever experienced the interior ambience of a Porsche Panamera?

If so, you would agree it is no meagre task to better the stylistics appointments of one of the best super sedans out there… but we’ll wait for Geely’s response during the world debut.

So is the Geely Preface just blowing smoke?

Well yes! There’s little doubt. Judging from the string of strong models launched by every member of the Geely group, the Preface will be a showstopper, and it has a lot going for it. And as far as the ad goes, we love it, it's caused a ruckus in the car world, and that's what an ad is supposed to do.

However, if you’re looking for a car as luxurious as a Panamera, that will run rings around a BMW M4, and have as much if not more power than a Mercedes-AMG C63 – well no, there is no such car… or is there?

BMW M8 Gran Coupe anyone?


No Price Increase For CKD Toyota Models

UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) would have confirmed that there is no planned increase in prices of Toyota (locally-assembled) CKD models at this time.

Earlier in the year, the Finance Ministry gave the assurance that if any CKD model was affected by increased prices as a result of the transparent methodology of reporting the Open Market Value, all increases in price will be absorbed or exempted by the Finance Ministry during 2020.

The current line-up of Toyota CKD models include the Yaris, Vios, Rush, Hilux,
Fortuner
,
Innova
, and Hiace.

Mr. Ravindran K, President of UMWT, added that “factors such as exchange rates and tax revisions can affect prices but as far as possible, the company has always tried to maintain price stability by absorbing the increases as much as we can”.


PLUS Lets You Redeem Aidilfitri Toll Rebates Until November

PLUS had offered a toll rebate during the festive Hari Raya period not long ago, allowing road users to redeem them should they be Class 1 users using paying electronically (SmarTAG, Touch n’ Go or PLUSMiles card).
These rebates were offered on the July 13, 14, 15, 21, 22, and 23 who travelled more than 100km on the North-South Expressway and ELITE highway.
Those entitled to the rebate can receive the rebate when they reload their electronic cards at any PLUS customer service centres between 15 August and 14 November 2015.
PLUS calculates that more than 750,000 users are eligible to makes the claim, which totals in a pay out of more than RM8.5 million.


KTM Komuter Fares To Increase By 36 Percent In December?

In the midst of pretty much everything increasing in price, we suppose it’s only natural for public transportation to follow suit as well. Reportedly, KTM will be upping the fares for its Komuter trains starting December.
According to reliable source, writes The Star, the fares will are due to be announced very soon - as early as today, it seems - and that it will be increased to 15 sen per kilometre as opposed to the current rate of 11 sen per kilometre. A 36 percent increase.
KTMB chairman Datuk Nawawi Ahmad did not wish to speak about the possibility of revised fares when contacted by the newspaper. He did, however, disclose that the company was indeed losing money in the current economic climate, adding that to cover costs KTM would have to increase fares to 20 sen per km.
A hike of some kind was necessary, especially so that service could be improved and waiting times were consistently reduced. Nawawi said that he wanted to slice the waiting time in half - from 15 to 30 minutes to just 7.5 minutes.
Previously, KTM Komuter fares were due to be changed in May of this year but the plans were postponed due to negative reactions from the public.


Rejoice! Locally Assembled Mercedes-AMG C43 Sedan and GLC 43 For Malaysia

The Mercedes-AMG’s range of 43 series cars are 3.0-litre twin turbo six-cylinder (V6) cars aimed at BMW’s 3.0-litre single twin scroll turbo inline six-cylinder 40i engine models. In Malaysia, 40i engine BMW models are limited only to the 640i Gran Coupe but Mercedes-Benz Malaysia offers six-cylinder engines on the C-Class, GLC-Class and SLC-Class range.
Prior to this, the all-wheel drive fully-imported C43 Sedan 4Matic (East London, South Africa) and
GLC 43 4Matic
 (Bremen, Germany) were sold at RM 499,888 and RM 538,888 respectively, sans insurance.
Now, these two models are put together at Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s (MBM) vehicle assembly facility in Pekan, Pahang, thus contributing to huge savings in import duties. Both models are assembled alongside four-cylinder C-Class and GLC-Class as well the plug-in hybrid C350e.
The C43 Sedan 4Matic now sells for RM 408,888 (reduction of RM 91,000) while the GLC 43 4Matic sells for RM 468,888 (reduction of RM70,000). That’s a lot of savings.
There is however, a small downside to this, as this C43 Sedan is not the
facelift model
 that’s already on sale in Europe. As this is a locally-assembled model, the C43 Sedan will follow the same model lifecycle as regular C-Class sedans in Malaysia.
Unlike the four-cylinder 45 series and V8 63 and 65 series AMG cars, 43 series V6 engines are not hand-assembled. Instead, the 3.0-litre twin turbo V6 comes off a regular production line, just like any other engine made by Daimler.
The engine, identified by its signature red ‘vee’ aluminum insert on the engine cover, minus AMG’s signature name plaque of the engine builder (for reasons explained above). In the C43 and GLC 43, it makes 367 hp between 5,500 – 6,000 rpm and 520 Nm between 2,500 – 5,000 rpm.
Drive is transferred to all four wheels via a 9-speed 9G-Tronic automatic transmission. The 4Matic system’s default torque split is biased to the rear axle.
Sprint from 0-100 km/h is 4.7 seconds for the C43 and 4.9 seconds for the GLC 43.
Both the C43 and GLC 43 are equipped with adaptive suspension, but the one in the C43 (AMG Ride Control) uses steel springs while the GLC 43 (Air Body Control) uses air suspension, which explains its significantly higher price tag.
Standard equipment on both the C43 4Matic Sedan and GLC 43 include:
AMG line exterior and interior
Night package
Red 'designo' seat belts
LED Intelligent Light system
Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus
Burmester surround sound system
Half leather seats - Artico synthetic leather with Dinamica microfibre
Panoramic sliding sunroof
360 degree camera
Power adjustable front seats with memory
Park pilot
Cruise control
Power-operated tailgate/boot
Between the two models, the major differences are:
AMG Ride Control Sports suspension for C43 and Air Body Control for GLC 43
19-inch wheels for C43 Sedan, 21-inch for GLC 43 – both AMG 5-twin-spoke design
The biggest benefit of buying a Mercedes-Benz from an authorized dealer is the financing options. With Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia’s Performance Agility Care package, the C43 can be had with a monthly installment of RM4,088 for three years, and the package covers all scheduled servicing and maintenance.
The other 43 series AMG models (all fully-imported) available from MBM are:
C43 4Matic Coupe
: RM548,888
4Matic Sedan: RM658,888
GLC 43 4Matic Coupe: RM580,888
SLC 43: RM570,888
Note that these are the prices that were announced at the 43 series’ launch last year, and as these cars are only ordered upon request, prices will change from time to time.
Learn more of the Mercedes-AMG history and background:
Mercedes-AMG 43,45,63,65 - What do the badges mean?
A look into the famed 'one man, one engine' factory of Mercedes-AMG
50 years of Mercedes-AMG : From barn to podium
10 coolest cars in AMG history


Honda In Talks To Purchase Contract Assembler Yachiyo Industry

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced today that it has signed a basic agreement to begin discussions toward making auto parts maker Yachiyo Industry Co., Ltd.’s automobile assembly business as a wholly owned subsidiary of Honda.
Yachiyo is an auto parts maker that specializes in compact fuel tanks, sunroofs as well as hydrogen storage tanks for fuel cell vehicles. It also has a division that does contract assembly of specialty, low volume vehicles, mostly for Honda. Think of it as Japan’s version of Austria’s Magna Steyr.
The company’s plant in Yokkaichi currently manufactures two Honda models – the S660 and Acty.
The discussion with Yachiyo is part of a wider move by Honda to consolidate its vehicle manufacturing operations.
Honda has also announced that it will be relocating operations at its Sayama plant to the newer Yorii plant by financial year ending March 2022.
The Sayama plant, opened in 1964 is currently tasked with producing the larger models like the Legend, Accord, Freed, Jade, Odyssey and Step WGN. Honda says the relocation is driven by the need to accommodate electrified drivetrains, which the Yorii plant, opened in 2013, is better equipped to complete.
The Yorii plant currently manufactures the Japanese market Jazz (Fit), HR-V (Vezel), City Hybrid (Grace) and Shuttle – all are compact hybrid models.
Staffs at the Sayama plant will transferred mainly to the Yorii plant. The Yorii plant will also serve a ‘leader plant’ to create, standardize and globally share new production technologies to accommodate new automotive technologies such as electrification technologies, with support from manufacturing staffs from other regions.


Citroen Shows Its Fun Side With The Cactus M Concept, Headed To Frankfurt

Citroen
 has shown off its new Cactus M concept, a vehicle puts a modern twist on Citroen’s Méhari light utility go-anywhere runabout of the late 1960s. It will make its official debut on the show floor at Frankfurt in a couple of weeks.
The Citroen Méhari, where the Cactus M Concept takes its inspiration.
The Cactus M is what Citroen describes as an open-air crossover, much like the car on which takes inspiration. Its wings are moulded around the wheel arches for more of a rugged impression with its black all-around cladding, while it sits on Bridgestone Tall & Narrow tyres wrapped around 19-inch wheels.
It clearly was conceived as a leisure vehicle, evidenced by the open cabin, raised body, and upright windshield. In fact, Citroen cites surfing as a key consideration when designing the Cactus M. Passengers can access the second row of seats by climbing over the sides using the built-in steps on the left and right and the modular rear arch enables easy carrying of cargo for a day’s adventure.
Speaking of the water, the wetsuit-inspired seats are upholstered in waterproof neoprene and allows the entire cabin to be washed down thanks to special drainage outlets and water flow grooves built into the foot wells.
To help it tackle the outdoors, the Cactus M is equipped with Citroen’s Grip Control traction system that comes in four modes: Normal, Sand, All-Terrain, and Snow.
Powering the Cactus M will be a petrol unit in the form of PSA’s turbocharged 1.2-litre ‘Puretech’ three-cylinder. Power output here may vary but churns out 109hp and 204Nm of torque in the
Citroen DS3
.


Court of Appeal frees Sam Ke Ting in ‘basikal lajak’ case

The Court of Appeal today acquitted clerk, Sam Ke Ting, for reckless driving, which caused the death of eight teenagers riding their 'basikal lajak' in 2017.

A three-judge panel led by Datuk Hadhariah Syed Ismail, sitting alongside Datuk Hashim Hamzah and Datuk Azman Abdullah, made a unanimous decision, thus setting aside the six-year prison sentence and RM6,000 fine by the High Court against Ke Ting.

Picture credit: The Star

"In this case, the charge was incorrect, it was defective. The conviction was also incorrect. On this grounds alone, the appeal is allowed," said Justice Hadhariah, according to The Star.

On April 13 last year, the Johor Bahru High Court ordered the clerk to be punished for the offence she committed in 2017
after being acquitted of her charge by the same Magistrate's Court in Johor Baru
.

A second appeal by the prosecution took her to the High Court, where they allowed the prosecution’s appeal and convicted Sam of driving recklessly and sentenced her to six years in jail and an RM6,000 fine.

Judge Datuk Abu Bakar Katar also ordered the respondent, Ke Ting, 27, to serve another six months in prison if she fails to pay the fine, in addition to losing her driving license for three years effective after completing the prison sentence.

According to
The Star
, in today's decision, Justice Hadhariah said a guilty verdict could only follow the finding of fault of the driver.

"That is how the law stands. You cannot simply say that because it is a fatal accident, the driver must have been liable. That is not what the law says," she said.

In her appeal, Sam's lead counsel Datuk Hisyam Teh Poh Teik had argued that there was duplicity in Sam's charge.

The defence submitted that the conviction by the High Court was "unsustainable" as the charge was defective, duplicated and without a prima facie case.

Justice Hadhariah ended the case by saying to Sam that" You are now a free person". The court also ordered for Sam's RM10,000 bail money to be returned to her.