7 out of 10 youths in Malaysia are in debt, mainly due to car loans

It seems that cars are one of the main culprits for youths being in debt in Malaysia.

 Debts can be a heavy burden for youths. When young people are in debt, it can impact their ability to make future financial decisions, limit their financial freedom, and cause stress and anxiety.

For this exact reason, we always hope that youths never get themselves into debt, but a recent finding from local University UCSI tells a worrying tale about youths in Malaysia.

UCSI has found that 73% of 1,077 Malaysians aged between 18 and 40 are in debt. According to them, the main reasons given for taking loans were financial constraint (42%), inflation (22%) and luxurious lifestyle (21%).

According to the report in Malay Mail, "this indicates that about three-quarters of Malaysian youths do not have sufficient capital for financial commitments."

"Although the number of borrowers among the youngsters is worrying, 83% of them could pay their loans on time," said UCSI University's head of research and postgraduate studies in its Faculty of Business and Management, Hassanudin Mohd Thas Thaker.

What's even more worrying is that youths are burdening themselves just for the sake of a vehicle, which according to the University, is one of the top causes. The survey found that 30% of the loans were for vehicles, 28% were for education, and 16% were for buying houses.

"It is alarming to have vehicle loans on top of the pyramid as according to the Insolvency Department Malaysia, vehicle loans (14.39%) have been the second causal factor of bankruptcy rate after personal loans (42.24%) in the year 2022," said Hassanuddin.

And it's not like they don't know the consequences of defaulting the loans because 73% of them know what will happen if they don't pay up. Hassanuddin added that this shows Malaysian youths do not apply for loans blindly.

But Hassanuddin has given them a hall pass as he believes that one of the reasons that youths are in debt is due to COVID-19. Change in lifestyle may have been necessary to some of the youths because many things changed during the pandemic.

“One of the examples are university students’ transition from physical classes to online classes."

“This requires each student to have their own laptop and home Wi-Fi facility for them to join online classes, which indirectly affected their daily financial well-being,” he said.

Another finding is that most youths are in debt as they do not have enough savings to begin a new chapter of their life which later causes them to apply for loans.

“Based on the outcome of this research, it could be concluded that the majority of the youths are having greater financial constraints due to the Covid-19 waves,” he said.


Malaysian Drivers A Very Unhappy Lot

Malaysian drivers rank among the least satisfied groups of road users in the world, says Waze.
According to Waze’s inaugural Driver Satisfaction Index, Malaysia ranks behind Brazil but ahead of Russia. The world’s least satisfied drivers are those from El Salvador, while Dutch drivers are most satisfied.
The Waze Driver Satisfaction Index is based on six key factors:
Traffic Level by frequency and severity of traffic jams
Road quality and infrastructure
Driver safety based on accidents, road hazards and weather
Driver services like access to gas stations and easy parking
Socio-Economic (data sourced from World Bank) including access to cars and impact of gas prices
Of course, this is merely a subjective score, collated based on user generated traffic reports from Waze users around the world.
You know that you can’t take the rankings very seriously because Japan, which has one of the best town planning and public transportation system, and has among the safest and smoothest roads in the world, ranks even lower than Malaysia and Russia. Viewed it another way, Japan is a very congested city and its drivers are very demanding lot.
Malaysia also ranks poorly in safety index, collated based on the density of accidents and hazards reported. With a score of 7.1, Malaysia sits below Russia but ahead of Belgium (weird…).
Kuala Lumpur is not ranked in Waze’s traffic index but we can see that the French city of Rennes has the smoothest traffic while Manila has the worst. Indonesia also has the most number of heavily congested cities.


All-New 2018 Audi A8 (D5) - Self-Pilots In Traffic Jams; V6, V8 Mild-Hybrid Engines

The all-new fourth-generation Audi A8 has just been revealed at the Audi Summit happening in Barcelona, debuting the brand’s new design direction, highly-advanced automated driving systems, and a range of highly-advanced mild-hybrid powertrains with 48V electric architecture.
As with its competitors, chiefly the
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
 and
BMW 7 Series
, the all-new A8 will be available in two body lengths – the standard wheelbase model stretches 5.17 metres long, whilst the long wheelbase A8L adds an extra 13cm of metal between the axles.
A new styling language for the Audi brand debuts in the A8, though it is largely a reinterpretation of familiar elements. Up front, the usual Singleframe grille is now more trapezoidal than ever. Along the side, the three-part shoulder line is arranged to emphasize the A8’s quattro drivetrain.
Inside, a revolutionized interior embraces a minimalist concept that offers
few buttons or switches
; a new infotainment system replaces the familiar pushbutton and touchpad interface with a 10.1-inch touchscreen display that is flush with the dashboard panel. Beneath it, a second touchscreen offers access to climate control systems.
A
high degree of automated driving
 is engineered into the new A8. The Audi AI traffic jam pilot is able accelerate, steer, and brake the vehicle autonomously at speeds up to 60 km/h without any intervention or even attention from the driver, who is nevertheless required to be ready to retake control of the vehicle when prompted.
Extensions of the A8’s self-driving capabilities include remote parking pilot and remote garage pilot which allow the driver to, well, step down and let the car park itself in a tight spot or narrow garage. The system is engaged via the myAudi smartphone app that also allows the driver to view the vehicle’s surroundings through its built-in network of cameras.
The A8 is also offered with a
fully-active suspension system
 which is able to individually vary the suspension behaviour at each wheel. It even draws on visual from the front camera feed to predict upcoming terrain and rapidly adjust its response to compensate. This advanced suspension system needs a bit of juice to power, which it draws from a 48V electrical system that is standard in all versions of the A8.
The 48V system incorporates a belt-alternator starter that allows the vehicle to coast with engine off and also to restart more smoothly. This effectively makes
all variants of the A8 mild hybrids
 at the very least. Audi claims that the system is able to cut fuel consumption of the A8, which are yet to be revealed, by as much as 0.7 litres/100km in the real world.
For starters, Audi is launching the A8 with two 3.0-litre V6 engines – 286 hp diesel and a 340 hp petrol. A pair of 4.0-litre V8s consisting of a 435 hp diesel and a 460 hp petrol is slated to follow before a 6.0-litre W12 arrives to top off the range. All variants come standard with quattro all-wheel drive.
Also to come will be a plug-in hybrid variant to be offered exclusively in long-wheelbase configuration. Dubbed the A8L e-tron quattro, it pairs a 3.0 TFSI petrol engine with an electric motor to achieve net system outputs of 449 hp and 700 Nm. A full charge of its lithium-ion battery is said to be enough for 50km of electric driving, and wireless charging is set to be available as an option.
The new A8 is being built at Audi’s plant in Neckarsulm, Germany, and will be hitting German roads by late autumn 2017. Prices start at EUR 90,600 for the regular wheelbase A8 and EUR 94,100 for the long-wheelbase A8L. At present exchange rates, they convert to about RM444k and RM461k respectively.


How Does the New Audi S3 Stack Up Against The BMW M135i

How does the new 2020 Audi S3 stack up against the 2020 BMW M135i?

If anybody were to ask us who started the bonkers luxury hot hatch segment, we would easily say it was Audi. Yes, Volkswagen had the Golf GTI, but it was Audi (Audi S3) who had the first posh and luxurious hot hatch that was a bit of a hooligan.

These days and no thanks to Audi's minuscule presence here in Malaysia, no one really associates Audi with luxurious hot hatches, but internationally, they are still known to be one of the best in the deluxe hot hatch market.

Jealous of all the new more powerful and affluent hot hatches popping up everywhere, Audi was never going to let theirs get left behind, so what does Audi do? Introduce a new one, of course.

The new Audi S3 hatchback (Audi likes to call it sportback) and sedan has just recently been unveiled by the German automaker. It now comes with 306hp and 400Nm of torque making it a better rival for the rest of the chasing pack which pretty much have the same amount of power.

But where does it stand compared to the rest? Since the
Mercedes Benz A35
 and
Golf R
 are the oldest, we thought we would compare it with the younger
M135i
 because not only is it the newest next to the Audi S3, it is also the most powerful out of the hot hatch bunch - on paper anyways.

Background: Audi S3 and BMW M135i

Audi launched the first generation S3 way back in 1999. Apart from its VW group sibling the Golf GTI which was not so lux, it was the only luxurious hot hatch that was built during that era. It featured a 1.8-litre, 210hp turbocharged engine borrowed from the Audi TT. At the time, most of the hot hatches concentrated on power and not too much on the comfort side. Audi managed to combine the two which really did put the S3 on a pedestal. The M135i, on the other hand, was created during an era where it was playing hot hatch catchup. This is not really BMW's forte, but BMW was in no way going to let other manufacturers have all the fun. The previous iterations of the 1 Series hot hatches all had 3-litre engines and rear-wheel drive. It was in a class of its own. BMW has now finished experimenting and has decided to make a car with a more traditional hot hatch formula (FWD/AWD/2.0-litre turbo) - and voila, the M135i X-drive is born.

Exterior: 2020 Audi S3/ 2020 BMW M135i

There's still no doubt that the S3 is probably the most elegant looking hot hatch out of them all. It manages to blend some aggressiveness into its classy demeanour very well. Looking at the debut pictures, it's pretty hard to tell whether it is an S model. Most people would probably mistake it for just a regular A3, and that's a good thing. The M135i on the contrary, is the polar opposite of the S3. It wants people to know it's a mean machine. There's just obvious aggression everywhere.

Interior: 2020 Audi S3/ 2020 BMW M135i

We all know when it comes to interiors Audi is pretty much one of the top interior designers out there. The new Audi S3's interior doesn't disappoint and looks very Lamborghini-ish. It is once again a masterclass in how to do vehicle interior. The M135i is not too shabby either. Its typically timeless like all BMW interiors and looks very clean. The only thing that gives away that it is a special car are the two front seats and that striking red colour. By going to an AWD configuration, the interior space has benefitted and now presents a bit more room despite its shrunken wheelbase.

Engine: 2020 Audi S3/ 2020 BMW M135i

While BMW fans are still trying to get around to the idea that the M135i is not a rear-wheel drive hooligan, kudos must be given to BMW for making a peach of a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine. Out of its similarly fast hot hatch rivals, the M135i is the most powerful, but only pips the rest in the torque area by having an extra 50nm. We are also glad to see that BMW has equipped it with their famous 8-speed automatic gearbox, which distributes power to all four wheels through a BMW xDrive (AWD in BMW language) and although it is a lot less of a riot thanks to this composed drivetrain, it is probably not the vehicle that most wanted but what most need. The Audi S3 with its 2.0-litre TFSI engine which is rated at 306hp and 400nm of torque is a bump up on power compared to its predecessor. The TFSI all wheel drive powertrain, is something familiar so nothing new here, just more power. As expected, a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox is mated to the engine

Which one should you consider? 2020 Audi S3 or 2020 BMW M135i

We haven't driven either vehicle yet but just from a paper point of view there is no doubt you should consider the BMW instead of the Audi. There were rumours that Audi Malaysia is considering bringing in more performance-oriented cars instead of just SUVs but nothing concrete is yet visible. It's a shame really because we know that Audi's performance cars are one of the best in the world but at the end of the day, if they are not willing to support their vehicles like Mercedes and BMW, there is no point really even thinking about the Audi. Stranger things have happened so this might change in the future. But hey, at least we can find some solace that the
Mercedes Benz A35 and BMW M135i
 are around to satisfy our love for hot hatches.


Buy A MINI Now, Enjoy Special Finance Rates, And Stand A Chance To Win A Paid Trip To The UK

In conjunction with the brand’s 60th anniversary, Mini Malaysia is offering customers with three new ownership benefits from now until 31st December.

“The Great British Deal” promo campaign offers significantly lower monthly instalments starting from RM2,388 with the MINI Balloon Financing at a lowered interest rate starting from 0.77% for MINI vehicles purchased from now to 31 December 2019.

New owners will also enjoy insurance rebate of RM2,000 off MINI vehicles with the MINI Financing plan.

With every purchase of any MINI models during the campaign period, an automatic contest entry will be entered for one lucky MINI owner to win an all-expense-paid trip to Great Britain for two.

All MINI vehicles come with a 4-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Scheduled Service; 24-Hour Roadside Assistance and MINI Black Card membership.

Looking for a new MINI? Find the best deals
here
.


Fuel Price Update: 25th May to 31st May – 8 Sen Up For RON97

The Ministry of Finance Malaysia has announced the updated prices of petrol and diesel fuels starting from 25
th
 May.
The price of RON97 petrol will increase 8 sen to RM 2.76 per litre, while the price of RON95 petrol is capped at RM 2.08 per litre.
The price of diesel will remain capped at RM 2.18 per litre for Euro 2M and RM 2.28 for Euro 5 respectively.
In summary, the prices for petrol and diesel are listed below:
RON95 – RM 2.08 per litre (unchanged, capped)
RON97 – RM 2.76 per litre (up 8 sen)
Diesel Euro 2M – RM 2.18 per litre (unchanged, capped)
Diesel Euro 5M – RM 2.28 per litre (unchanged, capped)


All-New Porsche Cayenne - Coming To Malaysia, Second Half Of 2018

The all-new Porsche Cayenne is expected to arrive at our shores in the second half of 2018, as mentioned by Arnt Bayer, CEO of Sime Darby Auto Performance during the launch of the new limited edition
Porsche Macan SportDesign
.
Porsche first unveiled the
third generation Cayenne
 in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen in September 2017, introducing the Cayenne and Cayenne S models. The single-turbo 3.0-litre V6 Cayenne is rated at 340 hp and 450 Nm of torque, while the 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 in the Cayenne S gets a significant gain in power output to 440 hp and 550 Nm. Both models come with active all-wheel drive and a new wide-spread 8-speed automatic transmission as standard.
Two weeks later at the Frankfurt Motor Show, Porsche introduced the new top-of-the-range model, the Cayenne Turbo. The Cayenne Turbo is designed to raise the bar for sporty performance in its segment. The 550 hp, 770 Nm 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine accelerates the Turbo from rest to 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of 286 km/h.
The Cayenne Turbo is also the first SUV to have an adaptive roof spoiler as a component of its active aerodynamics. The active rear spoiler provides both downforce for cornering grip, as well as an ‘airbrake’ position to reduce braking distance from higher speeds.
Weight reduction of up to 65 kilograms was achieved using an intelligent material mix of aluminium and steel. The all-new platform also incorporates an array of advanced technology - Porsche 4D Chassis Control, electronic roll stabilization and rear wheel steering.
Expect a long and comprehensive options list and package for customers to personalize their new Cayenne once it is on sale in Malaysia in the second half of 2018.
Together with the preview of the
Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo
 few weeks ago, it is definitely going to be a busy 2018 for Sime Darby Auto Performance.


BMW 340i 40th Anniversary Edition Launched In Japan From RM291k

BMW
 Japan has launch a limited edition model to commemorate the
40
th
 anniversary of the 3 Series
 with the BMW 340i 40th Anniversary Edition. Only 20 units will be offered there with a suggested retail price of ¥8,790,000 (RM291,307).
As the name suggests, it is based on the
BMW 340i
 with a 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder TwinPower Turbo petrol engine developing 326PS and 450Nm of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. Handling enhancements include Adaptive M suspension and M Sports brake kit.
However, the 40th Anniversary Edition receives a few changes on the exterior and interior to make it stand out beginning with a Tanzanite Blue paint finish for the body, selected from the BMW Individual personalisation program. At the front is a BMW M Performance black kidney grille while the stock wheels have been swapped out for 19-inch M light-alloy five twin-spoke wheels finished in ferric grey.
The cabin features Dakota Black leather seats, satin-aluminium window mouldings, plus additional BMW Individual touches with the piano black interior trim with pearl gloss chrome highlights, and a leather dashboard. A Harman / Kardon surround sound system handles audio playback.


New 2016 Nissan Teana Facelift Previewed In The US

Nissan North America has just announced that a new Nissan Altima will go on sale in the US in November this year. The US market Nissan Altima is essentially a Nissan Teana with a different name, and slightly different tail lamps, interior trimmings and a wider range of engines to choose from.
As such, the US market 2016 Nissan Altima seen here is a very reliable indicator of how the new Nissan Teana facelift will look like when it comes to Malaysia several years later.
Update:
 Sorry to disappoint, but it turns out that this new styling is only for the North American market Altima model. The upcoming
new Nissan Teana for our local market will not look
 like this.
Considering that our locally-assembled Teana was only launched in June 2014, we don’t expect to see a new Nissan Teana locally anytime soon, at least not for the next few years.
What’s New?
Apart from the adoption of an active grille shutter for better aerodynamics and an additional, sportier SR variant, the changes are very minor, limited only to exterior styling and improvements in interior refinement and comfort.
Engine and transmission options remain the same as the outgoing US market market – a 2.5-litre four cylinder and a 3.5-litre V6, both a paired to Nissan’s signature XTronic CVT gearbox. The 2.0-litre four cylinder engine that is offered here is not available in the US.
Outside, the new Teana features a new grille, new bonnet, new headlamps with LED projector low beam lights and LED daytime running lights. The tail lamp cluster has also been revised.
Styling elements from the higher range
Nissan Maxima
 (sold in USA, Canada and Korea) can also be seen in the new Altima/Teana.
Inside, the Teana/Altima’s signature ‘zero gravity’ front seats have been reshaped and the woven cloth seating and door panel materials feature a more open weave pattern. The twin cupholders on the center console now accommodate mug handles now.
Aerodynamics have been improved by 10 percent. Drag co-efficient factor is down from 0.29 to 0.26, thanks the active grille shutter (three percent gain), underfloor aero cover additions (three percent) and the new front and rear fascia and windshield designs (four percent).
The sportier SR variant is fitted with a sports suspension (22.4 mm front stabilizer bar, 26.5 mm rear stabilizer bar, revised damper tuning) that Nissan says will improve cornering performance by 12.5 percent.
SR variants can be paired to either the 2.5-litre four-cylinder or the 3.5-litre V6 engine.
Note that the features mentioned here applies only to the US market Altima model. Although similar to our Teana, specifications and features differ from country to country.
When will it be launched in Malaysia?
The Nissan Teana was launched in Malaysia in June 2014, so it is still too early for a facelift model. We don’t expect to the see a new Teana here until 2017 or later.


Another Vehicle Goes Against Traffic. Is He an "OKU" as Well?

Most of you would’ve read about, heard of, or even seen the viral video of a green Proton Gen-2 driving against traffic on the opposite side of the road in Penang and eventually crashing into another few cars, killing a poor man a couple of days ago.
Well, turns out that the 19-year old model who was “baked” on crystal meth during the crash, holds a disability card due to learning disability, apparently.
Now, we are not sure who thought that it would be a good idea to let her drive but let us hope that somewhere, somehow, justice gets delivered.
And while we are still in the midst of digesting what actually happened, another video of a pickup truck pulling the same stunt in Penang has gone viral.
The video, which was shared on the
Penang Kini
 Facebook page earlier today and by user
Don Carleone on Youtube
, shows a white pickup truck driving against traffic at high speed, almost colliding with a car.
We also came to know about a few other viral videos showing similar nonsensical behaviour on our roads.
Regardless of whether you’re lost, high, disabled, or well connected, there is absolutely no justifying driving dangerously and putting others’ lives in danger.
That said, we really hope that the Police, Road Transport Department (JPJ), as well as the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission wake up and bring this madness to an end.
Seems like there is absolutely no fear of the law or any regards to the lives of other human beings nowadays.
If you are really in such a hurry, take a flight. If you think that you are too high after a heavy night, use Uber, Grab, or get a taxi for crying out loud.
On another note, those who have been recording these videos using their smartphones - weren't you supposed to be having both your hands on the steering?


Trend Aksesori Kereta - Menarik Atau Berbahaya?

Pelbagai
aksesori kereta
 yang menjadi trend pemandu masa kini, hanya kerana mudah dipasang dan kelihatan cantik, tanpa menyedari ia berisiko mencetuskan kemalangan dan meragut nyawa sendiri.

Permintaan tinggi terhadap aksesori kereta sama ada yang mematuhi undang-undang atau sebaliknya, dijual secara meluas dalam pasaran termasuk di kedai serbaneka dan dalam talian.

1. Dummy buckle

Antara aksesori dikenal pasti berbahaya oleh Institut Penyelidikan Keselamatan Jalan Raya Malaysia (
MIROS
) ialah
dummy buckle
 atau alat nyah aktif penggera tali keledar.

Ketua Pengarah MIROS, Dr Khairil Anwar Abu Kassim, berkata trend terbaharu ini boleh didapati pada harga serendah RM2 di kedai serbaneka atau pasaran dalam talian. Pemandu kereta menggunakan aksesori ini untuk untuk menghentikan sistem bunyi peringatan daripada mengenakan
tali keledar
 di dalam kereta.

"MIROS ada melakukan siasatan setiap kali berlaku kemalangan terutamanya membabitkan
kematian
. Apabila kita semak, kebanyakannya tidak memakai tali keledar, namun dalam kenderaan mereka ada aksesori ini”, tambah beliau.

Paling merugikan, jika berlaku kemalangan dan
dummy buckle
 dijumpai dalam kereta oleh pihak insurans, anda tidak boleh membuat tuntutan tau!

2. Pelapik dashboard

Sejak 2012, semua kenderaan yang dijual di Malaysia wajib dilengkapi sekurang-kurangnya satu
beg udara kecemasan
. Kebanyakan model kereta mempunyai dua beg udara  iaitu di dalam roda stereng dan satu lagi di papan pemuka atau dashboard di sebelah kiri.

Kebanyakan pemilik kenderaan gemar meletakkan aksesori tambahan pada dashboard kereta. Secara amnya, hiasan pada dashboard kereta seperti pelapik dashboard juga anti-slip mat boleh menjejaskan prestasi beg udara dan membahayakan nyawa anda. Sekiranya dalam situasi kecemasan, hiasan dan aksesori tambahan sebegini boleh menghalang beg udara daripada kembang sepenuhnya.

*Kredit foto: MStar

Ada juga yang gemar menghias
dashboard
 dengan penyembur haruman kereta, patung hiasan malah siap ada dulang hiasan lagi! Tabiat ini sebenarnya mendatangkan bahaya kerana jika berlaku pelanggaran atau brek kecemasan, barang-barang ini akan terjatuh sekaligus konsentrasi anda turut terganggu. Lebih menggerunkan, jika barang-barang tersebut tercampak ke muka pemandu dan penumpang ketika kecemasan, ini boleh mendatangkan kecederaan pula.

3. Hiasan pada cermin pandang belakang

Selain dashboard, cermin pandang belakang turut menjadi mangsa 'kreativiti' anda yang gemar menggantung aksesori seperti pewangi kenderaan, rantai, cermin mata gelap dan macam-macam lagi. Penutup muka pun ada digantung pada musim endemik ini!

Undang-undang jalan raya di Amerika Syarikat menghalang penggunaan sebarang objek yang digantung pada cermin pandang belakang kerana boleh mengurangkan fokus pemanduan.

Disebabkan terlalu biasa melihat objek bergerak ketika memandu, mata akan mentafsirkan objek lain di luar kereta sebagai tidak bahaya. Keadaan ini akan menyebabkan masa tindakbalas pemandu untuk menekan brek bertambah lambat dan boleh meningkatkan risiko kemalangan.

Walaupun tiada undang-undang sebegini di Malaysia, menggantung hiasan pada cermin pandang belakang boleh mengundang bahaya kepada anda. Jadi, jangan buat ya!

4. Pelapik stereng

Pelapik
stereng
 atau
steering cover
 boleh menyerlahkan keperibadian pemilik kenderaan dengan pelbagai jenis dan gaya yang terdapat di pasaran. Namun, aksesori ini boleh mendatangkan bahaya  jika tidak mengikut spesifikasi dan bahan yang betul. Ini kerana, sesetengah pelapik stereng menggunakan fabrik yang tidak sesuai dan tidak dapat memberi cengkaman yang diperlukan.

Penggunaan pelapik stereng yang licin misalnya memang nampak cantik dan bergaya tapi boleh menyebabkan tangan tergelincir daripada stereng. Ia secara tidak langsung boleh menyebabkan kenderaan hilang kawalan dan
terbabas
.

Sekiranya anda ingin menggunakan steering cover untuk stereng kereta anda, beli material yang bersesuaian yang tidak licin dan menyerap peluh. Anda juga disarankan untuk mendapatkan aksesori sebegini daripada pengedar sah kereta anda untuk jaminan kualiti dan waranti.

5. Tinted gelap pada cermin dan lampu

Tinted gelap
 pada cermin memang berguna pada waktu siang kerana ia akan menghalang sinaran cahaya matahari yang terik yang dapat mengganggu pemanduan anda. Tapi pada waktu malam, cermin terlalu gelap akan menyukarkan anda untuk melihat kenderaan atau objek dari sisi (blind spot) seperti motosikal yang bergerak pantas. Keadaan yang gelap juga akan menyebabkan mata pemandu perlu bekerja keras untuk melihat ke depan dan menyebabkan stres pada mata.

Selain itu, kebanyakan pemilik kenderaan memilih untuk menggelapkan lampu depan dan belakang dengan tinted gelap. Meskipun cara ini menjadikan kereta tampil lebih sporty dan menarik, namun sebenarnya ia boleh membahayakan nyawa anda dan juga orang lain.

Lampu kereta yang digelapkan (smoked) boleh meningkatkan risiko
kemalangan
 kerana ia mengurangkan kadar intensiti cahaya sekali gus menjadikannya lebih samar dan kelam. Perbuatan tinted lampu kereta boleh mengganggu tahap ketelusan pencahayaan dan sekaligus mengurangkan jarak penglihatan pemandu terutamanya ketika waktu malam.

Ini adalah sebahagian daripada modifikasi yang dilakukan oleh pemilik kereta bukan sahaja di Malaysia, malah serata dunia. Tidak salah untuk menggayakan kereta mengikut citarasa masing-masing, tapi jangan sampai membahayakan diri sendiri atau orang lain.

Kereta memang kita yang punya tapi jalan raya milik semua, so
drive safe!


All-Electric BMW iX Unveiled - 500 hp, 600 km range

From concept to reality, BMW has finally entered the electric SUV market with the brand-new iX.

A couple of years ago, BMW premiered the
Vision iNEXT concept
, which was slated to be an electric SUV (or SAV, as BMW prefers to call it) for the future. Now they've finally brought it to light, with little to no fanfare or hype leading up to the big day. It's known as the BMW iX, and it will hit the markets in late 2021 with a big emphasis on sustainable design, development, production, and operation.

The big numbers, as the title suggests, are 500 and 600. 500 for 500 hp across all four wheels via two electric motors, and 600 as in 600 km of range on a single charge thanks to a battery with over 100 kWh available. The motors are even produced without the use of rare-earth metals for an even better environmental footprint, with high levels of recyclability for the batteries.

If you're in a hurry, a current-gen DC fast charger can tack on 120 km of range in just 10 minutes. You can go from 10 to 80% battery capacity in under 40 minutes with a toilet break and a cup of coffee or three. At home with a regular 11 kW supply from a wallbox, you're looking at under 11 hours of charge time.

The new BMW iX represents the technology flagship for the BMW brand, and this goes beyond just the powertrain. Autonomous driving is part and parcel of the modern driving experience, and advanced driver systems in the BMW iX are the basis for all BMW models to come with over the air updates also available.

From a design standpoint, the iX packs that controversial front grille that nobody really seems to love - although it's interesting to note that there are very few traditional BMW styling cues beyond this, much like the i3. The lights are BMW-ish at the front, but plain slits at the rear. The overall roofline is sleeker than a BMW X3, but at the same time the length and width are similar to a BMW X5.

On the inside, a massive 14.9-inch curved display stretches from the driver's cluster all the way to the space for a central screen, essentially mimicking the setup found in other German rivals. This massive unbroken layout lends a sense of fluidity and cohesion to the cabin, and the floating setup standing off from the dashboard is also an interesting way to improve the feeling of interior space.

The gear selector and controls are completely redesigned as well to reflect such a massive leap forward. Touch sensitivity surfaces comprise of open-pore wood for that added touch of sophistication. Many of the materials are made of recycled and natural materials, both on the inside and out.

Interestingly enough, BMW has not made one mention of performance or spirited driving for the iX - perhaps a sign of the times. The iX is designed to put eco-friendliness and occupant comfort above all else, and while we're sure it absolutely handles like a dream, it simply isn't the focus. Even the steering wheel is hexagonal - the first of its kind in a BMW model.

With BMW committed to electric mobility globally as well as locally, we could probably eventually see the iX coming to our market - but there's a long wait yet as the Dingolfing plant will have to satisfy thousands of orders between now and the beginning of actual deliveries towards the end of 2021.


All-New 2016 Lexus RX Launched In Malaysia – From RM388,800

Three months after its
regional debut in Jakarta
, the all-new fourth generation Lexus RX has been launched in Malaysia.
The fully-imported from Japan five-seater RX slots between the Audi Q5 (RM324,900) and Q7 (RM538,900), as well as between the BMW X3 (RM323,800) and X5 (RM579,800). The RX is bigger than the Q5 and X3, but not quite as big as the 5+2 seater X5 and 7-seater Q7.
There are three engine options – 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder turbo petrol, 3.5-litre naturally aspirated V6 petrol, and 3.5-litre V6 petrol-electric hybrid – and six model variants to choose from:
RX 200t Premium – RM388,800
RX 200t Luxury – RM408,400
RX 200t F Sport – RM422,900
RX 350 Luxury – RM457,800
RX 350 F Sport – RM486,300
RX 450h – RM520,200
All prices quoted are on-the-road prices without insurance, for private registrations in Peninsular Malaysia. All RX models sold in Malaysia are equipped with the Dynamic Torque Control AWD.
The RX 200t is the latest addition to the RX family. It shares the same 8AR-FTS 2-litre turbocharged petrol engine as the Lexus IS 200t and NX 200t. Power is sent to the all four wheels via the same 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission (Super ECT with AI Shift) as the NX200t (IS 200t uses an 8-speed automatic).
Power output is 235 hp from 4,800 to 5,600 rpm, matched by 350 Nm of torque from 1,650 rpm to 4,000 rpm.
The higher range RX 350 is powered by a 3.5-litre naturally aspirated V6 that pushes out 295 hp at 6,300 rpm and 370 Nm of torque, sustained from 4,600 rpm to 4,700 rpm. Power is transferred to all four wheels via an 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission.
Under the metal, the all-new Lexus RX has its wheelbase stretched by 50mm compared to its predecessor and allows for more legroom. Overall, the SUV is 120mm longer, 10mm wider, and 5mm lower than the car it replaces.
The turn signals now feature Audi-style animated light pattern, a first for a Lexus model.
Is It The Same As A Toyota Harrier?
Unlike previous generation RX models, this all-new RX is unrelated to the all-new Toyota Harrier, or any other Toyota SUV. The all-new Toyota Harrier now shares the same platform with the Lexus NX rather than the Lexus RX.
Overview of the Lexus RX variants
The base model RX 200t Premium (RM388,00 without insurance) comes with the following features:
LED headlamps
20-inch wheels
LED front fog lamps with cornering function
Power-operated tailgate
Keyless Smart Entry System
Semi-aniline leather seats
Eco/Normal/Sport Drive Mode
12-speaker Lexus Premium Audio
8-inch display monitor with Display Audio Controller
10 airbags
Vehicle Stability Control and Traction Control (VSC and TRC)
Hill Start Assist
Brake Hold
Blind Spot Monitor
Rear view camera with Rear Cross Traffic Alert
The RX 200t Luxury (RM408,400 without insurance) adds the following:
Moonroof
Aluminium roof rails
Smart Card Key
8-inch display monitor with Remote Touch Interface
GPS Navigation system
Wireless charger for mobile devices
Panoramic view reverse camera
All F Sport variants feature
Mesh design spindle grille
Black outer mirror casings
Dark metallic 20-inch alloy wheels
Adaptive variable suspension
F Sport instrument panel – with G-Ball and Boost Meter (for RX 200t F Sport only)
F Sport motive-stitched leather seats
Paddle shifters
Additional Sport+/Customize settings for the Drive Mode function
Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM)
The RX 350 Luxury (RM457,800 without insurance builds on the RX 200t Luxury’s list of features to include the following additional items:
12.3-inch EMV display monitor with Remote Touch Interface
‘Touchless’ power-operated tailgate – simply hover your palm over the Lexus logo on the tailgate, while keeping the Smart Card key with you to open to tailgate
The RX 350 F Sport and RX 450h comes with a 15-speaker Mark Levinson audio system as well as Head-Up Display.
All Lexus RX models come with a 3-year/100,000 km warranty. The RX 450h gets an additional 8-year/unlimited mileage assurance on the hybrid system.


11th-gen Honda Accord hybrid teased for 2023 with built-in Google

Honda has officially teased the 2023
Honda Accord
 with some exterior and interior shots, and they do look banging.

With the goal to bring more 'excitement' into the midsize sedan market, the 11th-gen Honda Accord will feature a new and sleeker exterior styling that sort of matches with the latest
Honda Civic FE
 offering as well as an upgraded hybrid powertrain.

New front and rear end - a classy yet youthful touch?

Honda's teaser won't be complete without showcasing the car's new front and rear end. Starting with the front face, the 11th-gen Accord features a more 'youthful' and sleek appearance thanks to its hexagonal-styled grille and slim DRLs plus headlights. First impression? Nice, very nice.

Going to the back end, the taillights run almost across the entire rear apart from the Honda logo located in the middle. Looking just as clean and sleek as the front end, the 2023 Honda Accord will most likely be a sleeker-looking sedan than the previous-gen. We can only know for sure once Honda decides to showcase the entire silhouette, but things are already looking good now.

First Honda with built-in Google

While the details of this new and more responsive 'fun-to-drive' hybrid powertrain for the 2023 Honda Accord have yet to be revealed, Honda has stated that it'll be their first-ever model that'll be integrated with
Google
 for 'seamless on-the-go connectivity'.

From our very own personal experience with the
Volvo XC40 Recharge Pure Electric
, the Android Automotive OS is indeed a step up in terms of connectivity, usability, and its ability to offer over-the-air (OTA) updates. One thing is for sure, that 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen will certainly be the biggest unit to be fitted in any Honda to date.

Other things to expect from this Google integration are of course apps like Google Assistant,
Google Maps
, and many more. More details will follow suit come November when it is launched globally. Thoughts?


Mercedes-Benz Plans To Unleash 10 New Plug-In Hybrids Before 2017

At a special Intelligent Drive event in San Francisco, California, on-going at the time of writing,
Mercedes-Benz
 has once again reiterated its position to
reveal 10 new plug-in hybrid models by year 2017
.
As mentioned before on Carlist.my, Mercedes-Benz is working full-steam-ahead on its range of plug-in hybrid models to come, and having seen the
C350e
 (sedan and estate) come as quickly as it did after the
S 500 Plug-In Hybrid we drove in Sweden
 late last year, it’s no surprise to see them reiterate the coming of 10 more models before 2017.
But what’s to come, specifically? Well, of the 10, it’s been made clear that they will include more sedans and SUVs. The likely suspects being the all-new W213 E-Class (sedan and wagon), the GLE-Class Coupe SUV, GLC-Class SUV (yet to be unveiled), while the remainder of that list being its rear-wheel drive-based models.
Why rear-wheel drive? The plug-in technology Mercedes-Benz currently employs is a modular and transferable arrangement for now, and it seems that the system has been fully-developed yet for its front-wheel drive vehicles, such as the compact range based on the A-Class: A-, CLA-, GLA and B-Class.
But that doesn’t mean that Mercedes-Benz FWD plug-in hybrid models won’t come. It’s been made clear to us that they’re well within the organisation’s plans, but a later announcement will reveal more.
What’s clear for now, however, is the intent behind the brand and its plans for the future, near and far. And that’s a full-on assault in the hybrid power and alternative fuel segment.
We’re here in San Francisco to get first drives of two new and very exciting vehicles: One, the C350e (the tiny ‘e’ referring to the C-Class’s plug-in hybrid nature); the other, the game-changing
F015 Luxury in Motion
 concept.
Stay tuned for these reviews to come.


Parents, Please Never Let Go Of Your Kid's Hand

A dashcam footage captured the intense moments when a young boy ran across the street, right into the path of a G10/G11 BMW 7 Series. The child was standing between several parked cars, and was hidden from view of the BMW driver until the final moments before he dashed across the street.
The impact was quite severe and sent the child flying several metres before hitting his head on the tyre of another parked car in front. What’s more distressing was that several adults rushed to the child’s aid and immediately lifted him up on their shoulders – something with one should never do to any person with possible head or neck or spinal trauma – as any movement could worsen the injuries and leave the victim paralyzed.
The child is being treated at a children's hospital and is currently in stable condition but doctors are keeping him warded for further observation.
The speed limit at the stretch of the accident was 50 km/h, and a ‘SLOW’ sign was painted on the road. The Taiwanese police is currently investigating if speeding was a contributing factor to the accident but preliminary investigation shows that the driver is not guilty. However the police added that the driver could have been more vigilant given the street's surroundings.
At this point, we would like to remind drivers that the speed limit for residential areas are usually no more than 30 km/h, while city streets are usually 50 km/h, for obvious reasons, but we all know that most drivers don’t pay heed to it. As shown in this dash cam recording, children, or even adults can be hidden from view behind a vehicle. At the same time, parents also need to be vigilant.
Some cars are now equipped with autonomous emergency braking (AEB), but not many can detect children. Volvo Car’s City Safety and
Honda’s Sensing
 are among the better ones, the former can detect human figures as short as 80 cm while the latter works on figures 100 cm or taller. Still, if a child is to dash out in the manner shown in the video, there's little chance for AEB to work.


Perodua Claims No Fault In Axia Steering Systems

Many of you would have come across images of a Perodua Axia which got involved in a ‘steering lock’ accident in Penang recently on Facebook or WhatsApp where the driver posted that that the steering of his car suddenly ‘locked’ and could not be turned while he was driving on the second Penang bridge in the rain, resulting in a crash.
The driver, who also said that the brakes did not function and the airbags did not deploy after the car hit the road barrier, mentioned on Facebook that he was considering taking legal action against Perodua. He also states that initial investigation results point to bald tyres being the cause of the accident.
Well, Perodua just released an official statement a couple of days ago and guess what?
A full diagnostic test was made on the vehicle (Axia E MT) after the accident and results show that the steering, braking and airbag systems were functioning normally.
The official statement from Perodua does not highlight the condition of the vehicle's tyres, but it should be noted by all motorists as a precaution that when your tyres are fully worn out, your steering and brakes are inevitably compromised.
Image of damaged vehicle posted by owner on Facebook.

The company added that it has submitted the report to the driver and is co-operating with the Road Transport Department (JPJ).
Furthermore, Perodua said that it has sold more than 200,000 units of the Axia and it is yet to receive any complaint of this nature since the car was launched in September 2014.
“We wish to assure our customers that our vehicles adhere to stringent safety standards set by the authorities with most even surpassing those standards,” said Dr Zahari Husin, MD of Perodua.
Perodua's official statement is reproduced below:


PDRM Will Get 1,200 New Proton Inspira Patrol Cars

The Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) is reported to be the recipient of a 1,200 new patrol car consignment due to be handed in stages from the end of 2015.

As reported by Bernama, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar said the new vehicles will consist of
Proton

Inspira
s and would go on to replace those patrol cars that are considered past their prime – over eight years and above.

"The new patrol cars will have a new image. The stripe will be slightly changed and we will use a green reflector. The cars will be fitted with additional equipment and new technology," he told reporters after attending a handing over of duties ceremony at Bukit Aman.

In addition to the new vehicles in and of themselves, Tan Sri Khalid said they would be outfitted with the C4i system which provides a direction, control, communication, coordination and information network as well as Global Positioning Systems (GPS).

"To date, only a small number of cars are using the C4i system, we only conduct tests on several cars," he said.

It is not clear just how many older patrol cars will be left on duty by the end of the transition to the newer Proton Inspira. Not known either is how the police intends to properly dispose of that many past-its-prime cars but are still functional nonetheless.


Apa Fungsi POWER MODE Pada Perodua Myvi 2022?

Seperti yang anda tahu,
Perodua Myvi 2022
 sarat dengan peningkatan baharu dari pelbagai segi. Antaranya ialah
Power Mode
. Apa itu
Power Mode
?

Kalau anda perasan pada stereng Myvi 2022, ia sedikit berbeza dengan
Myvi sebelumnya
, namun sama sahaja seperti stereng
Perodua Ativa
. Dalam banyak-banyak butang pada stereng Myvi 2022 ini, pasti anda akan perasan butang PWR pada bahagian kanan stereng.

Butang PWR itu membawa maksud
Power Mode
atau mod kuasa pada Myvi 2022. Ciri ini hanya ditawarkan pada model berenjin 1.5L sahaja seperti varian X, H dan AV dan tidak ditawarkan pada enjin yang berkapasiti 1.3L. Persoalannya, sekiranya butang ini ditekan, adakah ia akan menambah nilai kuasa kuda atau nilai tork pada Myvi 2022?

Power Mode

Untuk pengetahuan anda, Perodua Myvi bukanlah kereta pertama Perodua yang menerima Power Mode ini. SUV kompak Perodua, Ativa merupakan kereta pertama Perodua yang menawarkan mod ini. Power Mode memberikan anda akses kepada rangkaian penuh kuasa enjin. Dalam bahasa yang mudah difahami,
Power Mode
 akan meningkatkan tindak balas output enjin berbanding ketika dalam mod pemanduan biasa.

Walau bagaimanapun, butang
Power Mode
 ini hanya berfungsi ketika kereta berada dalam gear D atau S (S
port
) sahaja. Pemandu tidak boleh menggunakan
Power Mode
 ketika kereta dalam gear undur. Tapi apa pula perbezaan
Power Mode
 dan gear S ini?

Gear S (Sport)

Jika
Power Mode
 meningkatkan tindak balas enjin kereta pada tahap maksimum, gear
Sport
 pula berfungsi ibarat menurunkan satu gear untuk memberikan lebih pecutan kepada kereta. Gear ini sesuai untuk digunakan ketika ingin memotong kenderaan lain. Kalau tak cukup juga, anda masih boleh aktifkan
Power Mode
 ketika berada dalam gear S untuk tindak balas yang lebih pantas dan cekap.

Setelah mengetahui perbezaan antara
Power Mode
 dan gear S, bagaimana pula cara untuk menggunakan
Power Mode
?

Cara Penggunaan Power Mode

Tekan butang PWR pada stereng

Mod pemanduan akan bertukar ke
Power Mode
 dan lampu indikator akan menyala

Pandu seperti biasa dan rasai perbezaan pemanduan dengan
Power Mode

Tekan butang PWR sekali lagi untuk mematikan mod tersebut dan kembali ke mod pemanduan normal

Mudah bukan? Dengan Perodua Myvi 2022, segalanya di hujung jari. Tempah sekarang kalau tak mahu tempoh menunggu semakin meningkat sebab dengar cerita, Myvi 2022 ini dah terima lebih 4,000 tempahan sejak 9 November lalu!


2018 Hyundai I30 N Series Hot Hatch Revealed

The hotly awaited and much teased Hyundai I30 N hot hatch has finally been revealed by Hyundai, under its new 'N' sub-brand which will produce the company’s high-performance products.
Based on the
latest generation i30
, the i30 N which was inspired by the
RN30 Concept
 previewed at the 2016 Paris Autoshow, developed from the ground up to be hot-hatch capable of baiting established rivals such as the VW Golf GTI and Renault Megane RS.
The ‘N’ brand stands for Namyang, Hyundai Motor’s global R&D Centre in Korea and Nürburgring, home of Hyundai’s Testing Center where all N cars will be honed. The i30 N applies all of Hyundai Motorsport’s experience in the World Rally Championship since 2014.
The Hyundai I30 N measures 4335mm in length, 1795mm in overall width and 1451mm in height. The wheelbase stretched 2650mm – the I30 N is some 35mm longer than a (Mk 7) Golf GTI but near identical in height and width. The GTI’s wheelbase is a tad shorter at 2637mm.
The I30 N is powered by a 2.0-litre direct-injected and turbocharged engine which delivers 250 PS and 353 Nm torque between 1,450rpm and 4,700rpm. An optional Performance Package ups the power to 275 PS. Power is sent to the front wheels through a six-speed manual transmission.
The I30 N is tipped to complete the 0-100km/h sprint in 6.4 seconds (6.1 secs with the Performance Pack), all the way to a 250km/h top speed.
Hyundai has also developed a ‘rev matching’ function supports smooth gear shifting, and an ‘overboost’ function – increases torque by 8% and acceleration 6-7%.
Another highlight feature of the I30 N is the 'Launch Control' function which modulates engine torque when accelerating from standstill for racecar-like starts. The function is offered when in 'N' drive mode, with the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) turned off.

The I30 N is steered using an electric power steering and works in combination with the Electronic Controlled Suspension (ECS) which is claimed to reduce body roll and enhance overall stability. The system uses a solenoid valve within the absorber to control the damping force.
An Electronic Limited Slip Differential (E-LSD) further ensures better grip. For the track day goers, the I30 N even allows the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) to be switched off completely.
The i30 N’s is offered with 18-inch Michelin or specially designed 19-inch Pirelli high-performance Hyundai N tyres.
The cockpit of the i30 N will display key performance parameters through the newly designed instrument cluster. Another 8-inch free-floating screen offers modes such as the G-Force meter and lap timer.
The steering wheel is finished with the 'N' blue stitching and garnished with an 'N' logo at the bottom. The gear shift also features a unique blue stripe as part of the coherent color design. On top, the ball-type gear knob bears the N-badge.
The i30 N features bucket-type sport seats with lumbar support, extendable seat cushions also feature for better thigh support. Customers can choose from a combination of suede and leather or cloth finishes, both versions will feature a stamped ‘N’ logo on the back rest.
The i30 N will be produced at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Czech in Nošovice, Czechoslovakia. Official launch dates are yet to be announced but the I30 N’s European market launch dates are likely to be late 2018, with introductions in the North America markets to follow soon after.


Best Used Second Car Under RM100,000 - What's Good to Buy?

Usually, sometime around after lunch, we tend to crawl around the
Carlist.my
 listings in search of a potential future car. Is there anything good or great as a second car
under RM100,000
?

The short answer is yes, but since there are so many choices, you simply have to narrow it down to what you want the new car for. How about a good second car for the household? Well, that narrows it down a bit, but here are just some great findings that we've managed to gather.

2010 Toyota Vellfire 2.4 Z Platinum - RM89,900

A
Toyota Vellfire
 seems like a no-brainer when it comes to ferrying a crowd of more than five, or you simply want something that's able to take the beatings of daily driving with good levels of comfort.

It might be a dull choice for some, but it's hard to deny that even this 2010 model still looks great enough to be relevant on today's roads. Plus all those extras like 18-inch 'sport' rims, body kit, and reasonably decent interior for a 12-year-old car, certainly make this seven-seater worth a look.

2017 Honda HR-V 1.8 V - RM80,100

If an SUV is more to your taste, this fine-looking
Honda HR-V
 (and
Carsome Certified
) might be the one for you. Great brand, good looks, and great interior space for a family of five (or less) - a great choice with also good comfort and driveability for short stints and longer drives.

It's a solid choice and we can't help but adore that Grey exterior colour with those blacked-out 17-inch wheels. The missus wouldn't mind driving it, and we're confident that you would have very little to complain about even if you bring it to one of our
CarTell
 events or drives.

2018 Subaru XV (A) 2.0 P -  RM94,000

Here's another
Carsome Certified
 choice for you - a
2018 Subaru XV
. A very sporty-looking SUV that can handle the outdoors? If you and your kids love camping (or glamping if you're a bit
'atas'
), a Subaru won't look or feel out of place.

The SV even thrives in urban conditions which makes it another solid choice for a car that is considered by many as a great all-rounder. A modern-day SUV with Subaru's 'boxer spirit'? Yeah, it has no turbo, but a 2.0 NA boxer is still a bulletproof choice, yes?

2018 Ford Ranger 3.2 Wildtrak - RM99,000

Whether it's a lifestyle choice or used for more utilitarian purposes, a pickup truck like this
2018 Ford Ranger Wildtrak
 is always useful in a lot of different situations. Let's face facts, there have been multiple occasions in your life that you felt that "Hey, a pickup truck would be nice right about now, kan?"

This fine example has very decent mileage, is fully optioned, and looks 'outstanding' for its price. We also love its 3.2-litre turbo-diesel combined with the six-speed automatic transmission. We wouldn't mind driving this through the many minor floods in and out of Kuala Lumpur (but we pray we don't have to).

2018 Nissan X-Trail 2.5 4WD - RM80,800

A low-key Japanese SUV that you wouldn't mind trashing around during those mundane daily driving routines would be this
Nissan X-Trail
. It's been a popular choice since its arrival here in Malaysia, and there are many reasons why if you ask around.

Sure, that silver exterior colour might be a bit boring, but its 2.5-litre + 7-speed auto makes up for that minor setback. Plus, there are two seats extra if you're not planning to carry a lot of cargo at the back. Perfect for the little ones.

2021 Honda BR-V 1.5 V - RM86,100

Here's quite a new example of a Carsome Certified model - a
2021 Honda BR-V
. A no-frills and worry-free crossover SUV that's super easy to live with on a daily basis, and wouldn't present any issues when travelling with the family for that 'balik kampung' Raya holiday.

My father-in-law has a Honda BR-V similar to this one, and it has been a pleasant ownership experience so far. Good mileage, decent space even in the third row, and basically nothing to worry about as long as you get it serviced at the right time. A good upgrade if you're planning to expand the family.

2017 BMW 330e F30 - RM98,800

Are you a boss man looking for a boss car but don't want to pay boss prices? This
2017 BMW 330e
 will indeed help you maintain that 'baller boss' look without breaking the bank too much.

By the looks of things, this beauty looks great on the outside and fully stacked on the inside. Total power output from its PHEV powertrain is 252hp and 420Nm of torque, and its all-electric driving range sits at 35km. If you're a serial charger, you can save a lot of money on petrol, yo. Save that money for maintenance services, because it is a BMW after all.

2018 Peugeot 3008 1.6 Allure - RM96,800

The
Peugeot 3008
 was a surprise to most of us when it comes to overall comfort and driving dynamics. While it's been tuned for more urban excursions, the second-row seat spacing was quite comfortable even with three full-sized adults. If you have three kids? They would love it even more (or at least won't fight for space like kids always do).

Apart from looking sexy for an SUV, the Peugeot 3008 also has decent performance thanks to its 1.6-litre turbocharged engine and six-speed automatic transmission. A good French alternative that everyone in the family can enjoy and drive around for all occasions.

2018 Volkswagen Passat 1.8 - RM88,800

Here's an uncle's car that doesn't feel like an uncle's car when you're behind the wheel. Personally, I adore the
Volkswagen Passat
 for a number of reasons, but mostly because of its ability to drive the family comfortably and drive swiftly when the morning alarm clock is put on 'snooze' and we doze off yet again.

For RM88k, it's a no-brainer for some folks. For us, we would probably spend a bit more on wrapping it in a different colour and change up the wheels to something that's less uncle-ish. The rest of the car? Try it out, you'll be pleasantly surprised.


Proton sold over 141,000 cars in 2022 - 23.3% increase

Proton
 closed off its 2022 sales figure with a total of over 141,000 cars sold last year.

December alone saw 14,750 units that were sold and delivered to customers which brought the 2022 total to 141,432 units, and that's both for domestic sales as well as export. That's quite a positive figure to report considering what all car manufacturers had to go through in the past couple of years.

23.3% sales growth compared to 2021

Compared to 2021, Proton sold 26,724 more cars in 2022 despite having around the same number of cars sold in the final months of both years (14,147 units in December 2021).

Sales for international markets also saw a significant increase to 5,406 units, which translated to a 79.1% growth. The estimated market share for Proton is somewhere around 19.6% with 2022's total industry volume having closed over 720,000 units.

Saga remains the most popular model followed by X50

Proton managed to sell a total of 55,878 units of the
Saga
 followed by the
X50
 at 40,681 units,
X70
 at 18,533 units, Persona at 16,357 units, Iriz at 5,708 units, and Exora at 4,275 units.

These numbers also granted Proton with the highest volume B-segment SUV and overall best-selling SUV for the X50, highest volume C-segment SUV for the X70, and highest volume C-segment MPV for the Exora. Quite the achievements considering the issues such as chips and parts shortages, and even natural disasters like floods.

According to Mr. Roslan Abdullah, Deputy CEO of Proton, "Looking ahead towards 2023, Proton is confident of achieving more growth as we add to our range of offerings with our new model launches this year. However, we expect TIV to recede from the record volume in 2022 as deliveries for orders placed during the sales tax exemption period will be fulfilled by the end of March. Interest rates are also expected to increase again this year so it will be tough for the automotive industry to continue an upwards trajectory."


MOF: Kerajaan Kaji Semula Pemberian Subsidi Minyak, Petrol

“Golongan kayangan atau kumpulan T20 lebih banyak menikmati subsidi yang diperuntukkan oleh kerajaan berbanding
B40
,” kata Menteri Kewangan, Tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz.

Perkara ini berlaku kerana subsidi yang disalurkan kerajaan bersifat menyeluruh dan memanfaatkan semua lapisan masyarakat.

Subsidi Petrol Dinikmati T20

Zafrul berkata, antara manfaat yang dinikmati golongan T20 ketika ini termasuklah sebahagian besar
subsidi petroleum
 yang berjumlah RM4 bilion setakat Mac tahun ini.

“Setiap RM1
subsidi
 bahan api, RM0.53 pergi kepada golongan T20 manakala hanya RM0.15 dimanfaatkan oleh golongan B40,” jelas Zafrul.

Menurut beliau, subsidi tahun ini dijangka melebihi RM30 bilion dan lebih RM15 bilion daripada itu adalah subsidi kepada T20.

Kerajaan Kaji Semula Mekanisme Pemberian Subsidi

Untuk memastikan pemberian subsidi lebih bersasar dan menumpukan kepada golongan rentan, kerajaan sedang mengkaji semula mekanisme pemberian subsidi:

Subsidi Petrol

Subsidi Elektrik

Zafrul berkata langkah itu bagi mengurangkan ketirisan dan memastikan sumber negara ditumpukan untuk membantu mereka yang benar-benar memerlukan.

Pada Februari 2021, subsidi produk petroleum yang ditanggung oleh kerajaan hanya RM200 juta. Namun, menjelang Januari 2022, ianya adalah RM2 bilion dan pada Mac pula sudah lebih RM4 bilion.

"Manakala untuk subsidi elektrik pada separuh tahun pertama 2022, kerajaan mengekalkan tarif elektrik untuk semua kediaman iaitu besar dan kecil dengan kos subsidi lebih kurang RM700 juta.

"Kerajaan sedang kaji cara penyelarasan, di mana kita telah buat sesi libat urus dengan pihak berkepentingan dan bawa kepada Kabinet dalam masa terdekat. Yang penting data yang ada dan juga cara kita nak guna
platform
 apa untuk pastikan golongan kita sasarkan dapat bantuan kerajaan," tambah beliau.

Kerajaan Terus Kawal Kenaikan Harga

Dalam pada itu, Tengku Zafrul berkata, kerajaan akan turut menyalurkan bantuan lain termasuk Keluarga Malaysia berjumlah RM8 bilion dalam usaha mengurangkan beban kos sara hidup.

Katanya, setakat ini, kerajaan masih mengekal harga minyak bagi RON95 pada harga sekitar RM2.05 berbanding kos sebenar yang melebihi RM4 selain menanggung sebanyak RM700 juta subsidi ayam dan telur bagi tempoh Februari hingga Mei 2022.

Kerajaan akan terus mengawal kenaikan harga demi membantu rakyat dan juga menyokong momentum pemulihan ekonomi kita, jelasnya lagi.

"Dengan dasar subsidi ini, kadar inflasi agak rendah dan diunjurkan antara 2.2 peratus hingga 3.2 peratus.

"Kalau kita nak bandingkan kadar inflasi Malaysia dengan kadar inflasi di negara-negara lain, terutamanya apa yang diunjurkan oleh Tabung Kewangan Antarabangsa (IMF), IMF mengunjurkan kadar inflasi bagi negara maju adalah 5.7 peratus dan bagi negara membangun ialah 8.7 peratus.

"Kadar inflasi Mac 2022 bagi Malaysia hanyalah 2.2 peratus," jelasnya.


2018 Ford Everest Facelift Debuts With New EcoBlue Powertrain

Ford Thailand has just unveiled the Everest facelift, which includes updated styling, added equipment, and the new EcoBlue powertrain.
The EcoBlue powertrain is similar to the one found in the new Ranger Raptor, churning out 180 hp when in the single turbo configuration, while the twin-turbo version does 213 hp. The new 2.0-litre EcoBlue four-cylinder diesel unit replaces both of the Everest’s earlier engines, the 2.2- and 3.2-litre TDCi units.
In addition to the new engine, Ford has also ditched the old 6-speed automatic, replacing it with a new 10-speed automatic, also from the Ranger Raptor. The 10-speed automatic sends power either to the rear or all four wheels, depending on variant.
New equipment in the updated Everest include the Ford SYNC 3 infotainment system, handsfree powered tailgate, tire pressure monitoring system, and keyless entry with push start button. Additionally, the facelifted Everest also gains more driver aids including Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) and Forward Collision Warning (FCW).
Visually, the facelifted Ford Everest features a revised front end with a new grille and bumper design. The Titanium+ variant of the Everest also gains new 20-inch dual-tone alloy wheels.
According to Bangkokpost, the new EcoBlue powertrain will also find its way to the regular Ford Ranger, but will only be limited to upper variants in the range.


JD Power 2018 Malaysia Initial Quality Study – Honda CR-V, Isuzu D-Max, Toyota Vios Most Reliable

JD Power has just released its latest findings, which revealed that 42% of all problems experienced in the first 2 to 6 months of ownership are related to the vehicle’s design, relating to the infotainment and air-conditioning systems, as opposed to manufacturing defects.
The overall initial quality for the industry averages around 92 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100). While problems related to manufacturing quality remain as the core problem owners experience (44 PP100), design-related issues (39 PP100) have been increasing over the past 5 years.
JD Power also reported that car owners of Proton and Perodua reported a higher problem count than owners of Japanese brands (105 PP100 vs 77 PP100). Owners of national brand vehicles who have clocked more than 5,000 km reported more problems than owners of Japanese brands (131 PP100 vs 81 PP100).
As for the most common problem, owners reported about excessive wind noise (7.5 PP100), followed by excessive road noise (4.1 PP100), and the radio having poor or no reception (3.1 PP100).
According to the latest Initial Quality Study (IQS), owners of the Toyota Vios reported the least amount of problems, coming in at 77 PP100. The Vios’ nearest rival, the Honda City, saw 109 PP100, while the Proton Persona reported 113 PP100.
As for the SUV segment, the Honda CR-V topped the charts (48 PP100). The Mazda CX-5 (69 PP100) was also ahead of the industry’s average of 75 PP100.
Moving onto the pick-up segment, the Isuzu D-Max came in at first place (44 PP100), followed closely by the Ford Ranger (47 PP100). The Toyota Hilux (87 PP100) was behind the industry’s average of 71 PP100.
The 2018 Malaysia Initial Quality Study (IQS) surveyed a total of 2,766 new vehicle owners who bought their vehicle between September 2017 and July 2018, which included 55 passenger cars, pickup trucks and SUVs from 13 brands.


First Graduates of Isuzu Technical School Announced

Earlier in April, Isuzu Malaysia launched its very own vocational training center, the Isuzu Technical School (ITS). The first batch of five trainees has graduated with Sijil Kemahiran Malaysia – Level II in Commercial Vehicle : Service & Maintenance after a comprehensive training program, which covered both theory and practical aspect.
The graduation ceremony was held at Royale Chulan Hotel, Damansara. Isuzu Malaysia CEO, Kenji Matsuoka who witnessed the graduation ceremony said that the Isuzu Technical School was a commitment to service excellence.
“We have high expectations of our graduates as they will be placed in nationwide authorized Isuzu service centers. I look forward to their contribution in strengthening Isuzu’s reputation for customer satisfaction,” he added.
The graduates of Isuzu Technical School (ITS) will further perfect their skills in selected commercial vehicle workshops. There they will face more complicated technical issues and further progress in their careers under the supervision of the workshop manager.
During their time in the ITS, the students were under the tutelage of Isuzu Malaysia’s Head of Training & Skill Development, Syaiful Azuan Jaafar.  He has accumulated 16 years of experience in various line of automotive industries.
“I feel proud to be here today to witness the graduation of the first 5 trainees. I am thoroughly satisfied that they have surpassed my benchmark for them and they will be able to raise the level of service satisfaction for Isuzu’s customers,” he said.
Isuzu remained the top commercial vehicle brand in Malaysia for two consecutive years. It has expanded to 27 numbers of dealerships with 45 numbers of authorized workshops.


Most Used Car Dealers Won’t Take Flood-Damage Cars?

Over the past four months, floods have been a blight on motorists in Malaysia,
most recently in early March 2022
. But what about repairing vehicles damaged in the flood or selling them once they have been '
fixed
'?

Evening deluges or ones that last a full or multiple days have left utter devastation of personal and public property in their wake.

Cars are most definitely not able to withstand the
complete or even partial submergence in these waters
 as we have seen so frequently with entire parking lots of cars sitting in a deep pool of rainwater.

Flood-damage cars continue to overwhelm workshops and service centres both 3rd party and officially operated as it is often extremely difficult to fully repair. But even then, stricken owners are having a tough time offloading them as used car dealers are reluctant to take them in, even at prices well below their market value.

According to the Federation of Motor and Credit Companies Association Malaysia (FMCCAM), which comprises independent motor dealers, many owners with cars damaged from flooding will attempt to sell them but will face a stiff upper lip.

“Car owners will attempt to sell off their vehicles, as was the case when Taman Sri Muda and other parts of the country were badly affected by the floods last year. But dealerships are thorough in their inspection and will know if a car is flood-damaged. Most will not accept the vehicle as it will be more trouble than its worth,” FMCCAM’s Federal Territories and Selangor branch vice-president Lim Keat Hin told Free Malaysia Today.

Even light flood damage that was only isolated to the interior or undercarriage can already be enough of a red flag to inspectors as
lurking electrical issues
 and other malfunctions can slowly manifest itself should they buy it off the owner despite a seemingly healthy engine and its surface appearance being very presentable.

Lim added that repairs for such cars would vary between make and model but could easily come to more than RM10,000 for older vehicles and up to RM80,000 for higher-end cars. However, again, even an expensive repair doesn’t guarantee none of the issues will return.

Shyan Wong, a workshop owner in Petaling Jaya, admitted that she was also hesitant about accepting flood-damage cars for repair as it also came with a level of liability.

“When it comes to flood-damaged cars, there is a lot of uncertainty over the electronic parts and the engine control unit. More issues are likely to arise during the repair process, which will only increase the bill,” she said.

We may need to wait for parts and if there are none, would owners be willing to leave their cars in workshops for such a long time?”


Malaysia Will Have A New Budget Airline Soon Called MYAirline

Malaysia will soon have a new
budget airline
 called
MYAirline
 to cater to the demands of low-cost flights which will most likely start in October.

Following its operator's certificate (AOC) approval issued by the
Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia
 earlier this month, MYAirline is gearing up for its first flight within the final quarter of 2022.

Three Airbus A320-200 for domestic flights

MYAirline will start its operations and services with three Airbus A320-200 aircraft which will provide domestic flights within the country. According to Rayner Teo, MYAirline's CEO, they only have a few steps left before the planes can officially go up in the air scheduled for October.

The craziness behind it all was actually starting up the budget airline in October 2020 during the rise of COVID-19 around the globe. It seems that their business plan will start to pay off as more demands for affordable flights rose upon Malaysia entering the endemic phase.

Regional & international flights in the works

MYAirline will kick things off with domestic offerings, but if the demand is there, they will most likely venture into regional and international destinations as well. Currently, there is no news on the first few local destinations they have in store.

For international flights, if they do decide to offer them, will most likely cover a flight range under the four hours mark to keep with its entire operations on offering low-cost air travel solutions. As for the planes themselves, they are now under lease with over 300 staff and 45 pilots on its payroll.


Volkswagen Polo Trophy Review – The Career Librarian in a Racing Suit

Considering how a Formula One race car is far removed from the car you can buy off the showroom floor, many these days would instantly roll their eyes at the old “Race on a Sunday, Sell on a Monday” quip. To them it sounds like the parroted excuse of a few to take their cars out racing over the weekend and charge it under the company accounts under the pre tense of marketing.
That may be the case, but it doesn’t explain the enthusiasm of some owners to inject some motorsports inspiration into their cars, or deck them out in the liveries from their favourite past time, such is the case of this, the Volkswagen Polo Trophy. The only question to ask is whether this a hatchback that had spent the weekend racing, or one that had been merely flying its motorsports affiliations comfortably by the grandstands.
Volkswagen Polo Trophy Specifications
Price: RM89,888 Retail (without registration, road tax, and insurance)
Engine: 1,598cc 4-cylinder
Max Power: 105hp @ 5,250rpm
Max Torque: 153Nm @ 3,800rpm
Transmission: Six-speed automatic, front-wheel drive
Safety Features: Dual airbags, ABS with brake assist, Intelligent Crash Response System, ISOFIX child seat anchor point.
Origin: Locally assembled from Pekan, Pahang
Overview
The Polo Trophy is a limited edition version of Volkswagen’s recently facelifted Polo 1.6 hatchback, which can be singled out from the crowd with its eye-catching WRC-inspired blue and silver livery, black wing mirrors, and a rear spoiler. With a limited run of only 100 units and priced similarly to the standard 1.6 hatchback at RM89,888 (recommended retail price), the Polo Trophy poses as a rather attractive proposition in the compact car market.
Don’t however think that this is a hot hatch version of the understated Polo hatchback, as the drivetrain and standard spec wheels remain unchanged. Though like the Jetta Sport Edition, the Polo Trophy does come with additional goodies in the form of the Blaupunkt Philadelphia 835 7-inch infotainment head unit with navigation and window tinting.
Exterior
If you are the sort of chap who fancies decking out their ride in iconic motorsports liveries, then the Polo Trophy’s livery would definitely get your inner WRC interest buzzing as the Trophy comes with the layout and colours that is reminiscent of the Polo R WRC rally machine – sans the various sponsorship logos. Though the Trophy gets a prominent black rear spoiler, it isn’t quite the WRC car’s massive rear wing appendage, but not like you would need the extra drag and downforce when doing an economy run to and from your workplace.
Otherwise the Polo Trophy comes with the same updated features that was introduced with the facelift, such as the black headlight clusters, black front grille inserts, wider lower grille with a chrome strip, and darkened taillights.
Interior
Aside from the big new Blaupunkt infotainment system, the Polo Trophy retains the Polo’s refreshed new interior. While its clean layout and solid build quality is retained, the update brings with it the modern flat-bottomed item from the Mk7 Golf along with the addition of silver highlights on the centre console, adding a more upmarket ambience to the interior.
Drive and Handling
As mentioned earlier, though it dons rallying clothes and a swank new name, the Trophy isn’t any more different to drive than your average Polo 1.6 hatchback. It has the same 1.6-litre naturally-aspirated 4-cylinder MPI powerplant with 105hp and 153Nm of torque on hand and smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission that you would find on the standard Polo hatchback and Polo Sedan.
That being said, while the Polo Sedan powertrain felt very torquey at the low end of the rev range, and was better suited at highway cruising, the engine in the Polo Trophy lacked the Polo Sedan’s low-revving and torquey nature. Instead it had most of its power stuffed above the 4,000rpm mark. Though the nature of its power distribution feels different, the 1.6-litre engine doesn't rev willingly, and as a result it feels a little lethargic to pick up the pace at low speeds. Even the transmission seems to be following the engines tune as it feels ponderous in both shift speed and response at lower engine speeds. According to Volkswagen Group Malaysia, the Polo Trophy test unit is representative of all Polo Trophy units in Malaysia.
On the subject of handling however the Polo Trophy eschew from the city car genre. Fitted with a slower steering rack, the Polo doesn’t feel as easy to chuck around as its contemporaries, such as a Honda Jazz or a Mazda 2. Its relaxed steering is more at home plying the highway routes rather than scurrying about the city or down country roads. That being said however, the Polo manages to derive surprising amounts of traction to work with from humble 185mm width tyres, and it is safe to say that the chassis has more grip on hand than the drivetrain has power to work with.
Comfort and Practicality
Despite its size and standing in Volkswagen’s model hierarchy, the humble Polo Trophy has all the Volkswagen hallmarks of class-leading refinement. Its sound insulation is excellent at suppressing external wind noise as well as road roar, resulting in a remarkably quiet ambience for a car of its class.
Though there is no denying that the Polo’s cabin is a quiet place to be, it isn’t one to find relaxation in as the ride is quite hard. This is due in part to its suspension tuning that has been made to deliver a better ride stability at high speeds, rather than a cushy or one that wallows about. It has to be noted that the ride isn’t harsh as the damping has been tuned to absorb most ruts and bumps you might encounter on the road, so you and your occupants would be quite well off in the Polo Trophy, even with its hard padding foam in the seats.
In terms of rear accommodations however, leg room is pinched, no thanks to its diminutive dimensions, and the rake of the rear seats is quite steep, which makes it suitable for shorter jaunts for tall individuals. Another limitation with the Polo hatchback is its rather tight bootspace, which is good enough for four average sized duffle bags and backpacks, or a single large luggage with a laptop bag.
Ironically, despite its limitations in carrying luggage and occupants, the Polo has plenty of storage bins in the cabin. Besides the two centre front cup holders, there is a huge storage bin beneath the centre console and a small storage place located beside the hand brake, there is even space in the door panels to stuff 1.5-litre sized bottles. Impressive.
As for the Blaupunkt infotainment system, it is well integrated with its features and functions hooked up to the steering wheel controls. However in order to facilitate its hands-free Bluetooth phone pairing, a small microphone had to be attached to the base of the steering column, which does look slightly out of place.
Fuel Economy and Maintenance
On our drive from Kuala Lumpur, up to Genting Highlands and back again with four occupants on board and weekend away luggage, the Polo Trophy managed a consumption figure of 9.5L/100km. As far as small hatchbacks go, the Polo Trophy’s fuel consumption is average and expected, considering the load it was carrying.
While it might not have the sophisticated turbocharged and dual-clutch transmission of other Volkswagen models, the Polo Trophy also comes with a lengthy 15,000km service interval. The Polo Trophy is also covered by Volkswagen Group Malaysia’s 5-Year unlimited mileage warranty with 5-Year mobility guarantee. Over a 5 year ownership period, Volkswagen puts the maintenance cost for the Polo Trophy at RM4,357.
Safety
If there is one shortcoming the Polo Trophy has is that its safety features aren’t quite up to today’s expectations. The Polo Trophy comes fitted with all the necessary safety features with the inclusion of dual front airbags, ABS with brake assist, and ISOFIX child seat anchor points.
Conclusion
From the spec sheet you can already tell that the Polo Trophy isn’t going to be that much different from the regular Polo CKD hatchback. Nevertheless while it may not be quite ideal for those who need ample rear legroom and plentiful luggage capacity, the Polo hatchback is a very good car for those who find themselves driving great distances on a regular basis. There isn’t any other small compact car that can deliver the Polo’s blend of big-car refinement and stability.
Admittedly while the addition of the livery and blacked out set dressing is entirely up to your personal preference, the Blaupunkt infotainment system is definitely the main attraction here, considering that you can have it for no extra cost over what you are expect to pay for the standard 1.6 hatchback. So as much as it looks as though it lives for the weekends with its livery, the Polo Trophy is better suited for the humdrum life of the weekday.


ORA Good Cat: Looks To Captivate, Capabilities To Exceed

The electric vehicle (EV) segment has generated a lot of excitement in the automotive industry recently, and one of the most popular models is undoubtedly the ORA Good Cat, gaining significant public attention and chatter due to its uniquely attractive exterior design.

However, there’s a lot more to this car than its looks. Although the ORA Good Cat is positioned as a small car, many people may be misled by its appearance in photos and assume it might be a little too compact for their liking. In actuality,  To provide a clearer perspective, let's compare some measurements (Length x Width x Height).

ORA Good Cat: 4,235 x 1,825 x 1,596, with a wheelbase of 2,650mm

Honda City Hatchback: 4,345 x 1,748 x 1,488, with a wheelbase of 2,600mm

Proton X50: 4,330 x 1,800 x 1,609, with a wheelbase of 2,600mm

Measurements don’t tell the full story as the ORA Good Cat ensures passenger comfort with its spacious interior. The length of its wheelbase contributes to ample room for rear passengers, surpassing expectations.

Now, let's delve into the car’s accessible performance, which is crucial for drivers in Southeast Asian countries like Thailand and Malaysia and their demanding drivers. Many Chinese electric cars have faced criticism for their speed limitations.

The ORA Good Cat boasts impressive specifications from its front-mounted electric motor, including 143 horsepower and peak torque of 210 Nm, acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds, and a top speed of 152 km/h. With five driving modes (Normal, Sport, Eco, Eco+, Auto) and an intelligent single-pedal control system, the driving experience can be as effortless or more involving, depending on your preference for that day.

That said, it also represents a lifestyle and a certain versatility. Its head-turning appeal while driving will undoubtedly be a noticeable occurrence, but it belies genuinely capable product. So, in addition to its aesthetics, it offers an excellent driving experience thanks to its sure-footed handling, low centre of gravity, and manoeuvrability.

Safety features are of utmost importance for electric cars, encompassing charging safety, power battery safety, and active/passive safety functions. The ORA Good Cat, with nearly 150,000 units sold globally, demonstrates its commitment to safety through various validated figures.

Firstly, it incorporates 416 comprehensive electric safety protections across 5 major areas and 6 aspects, ensuring protection for its battery and electrical systems. During its development, the ORA Good Cat underwent more than a 100 high-standard electric safety tests, including IP67+IPX9K protection, 106 battery pack DV verification tests, 22 performance function tests, and 84 safety and reliability tests. These tests cover aspects such as high-altitude falls, battery impacts, chemical corrosion, and even physical collisions.

Regarding active and passive safety functions, the ORA Good Cat features the IronBone high-strength energy-absorbing body structure, utilising over 65% high-strength steel. This construction ensures better protection by providing sufficient space for passengers in the event of high-speed collisions. Additionally, it is equipped with six safety airbags that offer all-round protection during emergencies.

The car includes front and rear radar, warning systems like FCW (Front Collision Warning) and LDW (Lane Departure Warning), as well as intelligent driving assistance systems like ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control). With over ten intelligent driving assistance systems, the ORA Good Cat prioritises exceptional safety and comfort for every journey.


Mercedes Benz C-Class W205: If At First, You Don't Succeed, Make A W205

Mercedes finally hit the nail in the coffin with the
W205
.

For a long time, the C-Class was the entry-level car in Mercedes Benz's range, and while the A-Class has cancelled that out now, some still consider the C-Class as the Mercedes Benz vehicle to own if you want that proper Mercedes Benz experience at relatively entry-level prices.

The Mercedes Benz experience is all about that solid luxury feel. That's nice and all, but the problem with that is that people now want cars to have that luxury feel along with some sort of sportiness to go with it. The age-old problem with the C-Class is that it was not very fun to drive and looked quite bland. Yes, it had that luxury feel, but it was very far away from any sort of athleticism in the drive or stunning in the looks department.

Mercedes tried to change this in the
W204
 and gave it a design that would put it far removed from the silhouette of a limousine. The problem with that was it went too far away from the shape of a luxurious limousine and used some tricked out suspension to make it sporty. Although it managed to sell by the bucketloads, it didn't really pull in any new clientele.

It was really a good attempt, but it still couldn't prise away buyers from the driver-oriented BMW 3-series. So what did Mercedes do to fix this problem? They created a new platform and built the W205.

The fourth-generation C-Class made its debut six years ago and was a complete departure from the third generation C-Class, the W204. It looked like a mini S-Class due to its look and size. It was classy, sleek but at the same time looked sporty.  More importantly, it was also the first car to use Mercedes Benz's new MRA (Modular Rear-wheel drive Architecture) platform which used lightweight aluminium throughout the body which resulted in a 100kg weight decrease.

Not only did the platform make the car lighter compared to previous generations, but Mercedes Benz also claims that the platform's structure made the
W205
 much more rigid than other vehicles in its class.

By making it lighter and more rigid Mercedes had created what drivers wanted and finally, we have a C-Class that's perfect in every way. People didn't really need to question whether the platform was more rigid than others, because you would only need to drive it to know that the W205 C-Class really does feel more planted than previous C-Class iterations. Some have even gone as far to say that it is too sporty, but we bet those comments were made by ageing Mercedes Benz fans who prefer big fat Lazy Boy chairs.

Not only did the rigid platform help the W205 have better handling due to better rotational stability that enhanced how it carried vertical loads, but it also potentially increases the longevity of the entire structure, giving you that exceptional Mercedes build quality feel for a very long time. So once again, all boxes ticked.

Over the life of the W205, many other body styles spawned up, including a coupe, cabriolet and estate. They all came with that recognisable sportiness that the C-Class now has, a testament to the platform that Mercedes built.

The platfrom was so great, they even used it in the E-Class and S-Class but it was the C-Class that debuted the platform, a show of intent from Mercedes Benz to prove that they can make a sporty yet classy entry level premium sedan.

The engine choices were great too. Mercedes mainly powered the C-Classes with different output 2.0-litre turbocharged engines. They reserved the 3.0-litre turbocharged engine for the C43 AMG and the 4.0-litre twin turbo V8 for the C63.

Truth be told, the highest output 2.0-litre engine with 255hp and 370Nm of torque felt enough for street use. It barely had any turbo lag and was silky smooth. The conventional 9-speed automatic transmission paired to the engines were great too and really proved that you didn't need to use tricked out twin-clutch automatic transmissions to make a car better.

Many were sceptical that the C-Class had turned a new page, and I was one of them. All it needed was for me to sit in one and drive it to realise that the W205 had really delivered the best of both worlds. It is now sporty as well as luxurious. I never really aspired to own a C-Class, but the W205 has really changed my mind about that.


2021 (W167) Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 (CKD) Launched - RM475,501

At long last, the locally-assembled version Mercedes-Benz GLE now celebrates its official debut – the singular variant, dubbed the GLE 450 AMG Line comes in with a retail price tag of RM475,501.

However, it’s not exactly new, the
fully-imported (CBU) version
 was first introduced in Malaysia in September 2019, and was available as a 5- or 7-seater, the CKD, version, on the other hand, will be sold exclusively as a 7-seater.

Powering the GLE 450 is a 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder petrol engine codenamed M256. The engine is aided by a mild hybrid system that houses an Integrated Starter/Generator (ISG) sandwiched between engine and transmission and engine. The mild-hybrid system or
EQ Boost
 enhances power by 22 hp over short periods.

Drive to the front and rear axle after the (9G-tronic) nine-speed automatic transmission is intelligently split by a high-performance electronically controlled multi-disc clutch transfer case, which improves on-road handling and can call on the rear axle for additional traction when going off-road.

Other notable equipment highlights of the GLE 450 AMG Line include:

E-Active Body air suspension system

AIRMATIC adaptive suspension

Adaptive Damping System - ADS (allows further user control of drive programs)

Burmester Surround Sound System

Panoramic sliding moonroof

Acoustic windscreen and side windows

Active Stop-and-Go full adaptive cruise control

Powered rear sunshades

As for styling – the AMG Line includes specific items such as the aggressive-looking front and rear bumpers, diamond radiator grille with single louvre slats, body-coloured fender extensions, Multibeam LED headlamps, huge 21-inch AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels with subtle gloss black highlights.

On the Inside, the simplistic dashboard architecture is crowned by dual 12.3-inch LCD widescreen cockpit displays as if it is floating on the fully leather-lined upper dashboard. All interface is controlled by the MBUX (NTG 6 -
Mercedes-Benz User Experience
) system and is compatible with Android Auto and Apple Carplay. The centre console features twin grab handles and anthracite open-pore oak wood trim elements.

Other highlights of this 7-seater interior include the Burmester Surround Sound System and 64-colour ambient lighting.

In terms of safety, the GLE 450 includes driving assistance systems such as Active Distance Distronic, Lane Tracking, Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System and a 360-degree camera for all-round visibility. The GLE also features a knee airbag and side airbags for rear occupants.

Do note that the current price tag is in effect until the end of the tax-free incentive period. After which, the GLE 450 will be priced at RM 499,888 inclusive of the 10 percent sales tax. Customers can also explore Mercedes-Benz Malaysia's Step Up Agility Financing Plan which starts from RM3,888 per month for a limited time only.

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Malaysia Could Be Planning To Implement South Korea’s ‘Smart’ Traffic System

To curb the steady increase in the issue of traffic congestion within some of our nation’s most densely populated areas, Malaysia is turning further east for inspiration.
You see, South Korea has recently put in place new system to intelligently keep the flow of traffic smooth without much need for human intervention, a collection of technology they have dubbed the metropolitan intelligent transport system (ITS).
Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Aziz Kaprawi said high-ranking officials for South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (ILT) have suggested that Malaysia use their solution to create an efficient and safe transport system for expressways and urban roads, writes The Sun.
The matter was discussed during a bilateral meeting between senior executives of South Korea’s MLIT and Malaysian officials during the 9
th
 Apec Transportation Ministerial Meeting in Cebu, Philippines.
Aziz elaborated on how the intelligent transports systems use a combination real-time traffic information and electronic control and communications to manage vehicle flow in high-traffic urban areas.
"The South Koreans have developed one of the most impressive ITS in the world. We are interested to learn from them about this smart transport system which coincides with the government's future blueprint for a speedy, convenient and safe transport service," he said.


The 2017 Alfa Romeo Super Bowl Ad  - Goosebumps Guaranteed

What happens when you combine one of motoring’s most passionate and illustrious brands with one of sporting’s biggest events – an epic bit of storytelling, guaranteed to stand the hairs on the back of your neck. Titled Riding Dragons – Alfa Romeo’s 2017 Super Bowl ad details the passion, character and the ability to reinvent one’s self in the face of adversity.
Just before, Alfa Romeo’s latest superstar, the Giulia, lights up the screen.
Riding Dragons tells us that no dream is too big, that brute strength is nothing without grace and when it comes to achieving your dreams - believing in yourself and being fearless, allows you to boldly, ‘ride on the backs of dragons’.
Televised in over 150 countries, the NFL Super Bowl is one of sporting biggest events, (the 2017) Super Bowl 51 sees the New England Patriots take on the Atlanta Falcons – which drew to a close just moments ago. The New England Patriots came from behind, scoring a thrilling 25 points within the fourth quarter and overtime to win their fifth title with a final score 34 to the Falcon’s 28.
A fitting testament then, to the fighting spirit and grit of one of motoring’s most storied, storytellers.

A second video starring the Giulia, has also been released in concurrence with Super Bowl 51 - titled 'Dear Predictable', which goes on to challenge the norms of our daily convention. Why? Because the Alfa Romeo Giulia is anything but ordinary, it stirs the soul, excites the senses and delivers a permanent escape from monotony.
The Alfa Romeo Giulia says goodbye to “Predictable.” A common emotion, according to Alfa Romeo, that comes from driving any other luxury sedan.


Geely Binyue (X50) Gets Ganas Facelift For 2022, New 184PS Engine

Time flies faster in China, apparently, as the Geely seemed to think the Binyue (known to Malaysians as the Proton X50) was already due for another exterior facelift and spec bump over the one
it received just 6 months ago in July 2021
.

The images seen here were obtained from a filing with the Chinese government, meaning we’re looking at a finished version of a product that will be hitting showrooms in the coming months, if not weeks.

2021 Geely Binyue Pro "Battle"

This 2022 revision is decidedly aimed at making the B-segment SUV more aggressive to look at, especially at the rear where the Binyue is almost unrecognisable. Now there are character lines, a more pronounced (fake) diffuser element to sit in between its quad exhaust exits, repositioned reflectors to look like side air ducts, stupidly big roof spoiler, and much narrower tail lights that are joined together for a full-width light bar effect.

Fortunately the design gets much easier to digest from the sides where
Binyue profile is largely unchanged
. The wheels themselves are finished in gloss black and match designs we’ve seen previously seen from Geely in last year’s Binyue Pro.

Image from Autohome.com.cn

However, up front there are some new surprises as this 2022 facelift not only carries forward many of the alterations made with last year’s fascia revamp such as the ‘X pattern’ grille and bumper design, now enlarged and 'full face' - which Geely calls ‘Energy Storm - but adds revised daytime running lights and more contrasting red accents, like on the front lip.

In fact, the shade and intensity of the red colour as well as the ridiculousness of the roof spoiler can be different either based on buyer preference or variant spec but we won’t know exactly which until its official launch. Also note the addition of bonnet vents that are barely visible in these early pics, which are pretty hilarious as they're probably just a piece of covered plastic.

Image from Autohome.com.cn

Geely seems to also be adding a new range-topping engine to the Binyue range, which on first blush gives the impressions that will sit above
the TGDI 3-cylinder petrol
. Interesting….

This new engine is a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol (BHE15-EFZ) that reportedly produces 184PS. If true, this modest power bump might suggest a direct replacement to the current ‘high output’ 177PS/255Nm unit rather than a step-up to sit alongside it.

Further to this, it might also be the first hint of range-wide shift to four-cylinder units going forward in search of better refinement and reliability. However, drive its still sent to the front wheels via
a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission
.

Again, we’ll have to wait for Geely to officially launch the 2022 Binyue to have a clearer look at the revised range and to interpret its future implications to the Proton X50 but there’s a lot of material already in the open to keep us either drooling or scratching our heads.