SOP Dan Proses Bercuti Ke Langkawi – Jalan Darat Dan Jalan Udara

Langkawi
 bakal menjadi destinasi pertama yang akan dibuka bagi tujuan
pelancongan
 bermula pada Hari Malaysia, 16 September 2021 tapi apa SOP dan proses bercuti ke Langkawi?

Dah letih terperap di rumah kerana pandemik? Ada berita baik untuk anda yang dah lama mahu bercuti. Kementerian Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya Malaysia telah memberikan lampu hijau kepada Langkawi untuk dibuka kepada semua pelancong domestik yang memenuhi kriteria SOP dari seluruh negara, termasuk dari negeri yang berada dalam
Fasa 1 Pelan Pemulihan Negara
.

Tetapi jika anda berada di kawasan
Perintah Kawalan Pergerakan Diperketatkan (PKPD),
 anda terpaksa melupakan hasrat ingin ke Langkawi kerana anda tidak dibenarkan untuk melancong ke sana. Bagi mereka yang bukan dari kawasan PKPD, anda dibenarkan ke Langkawi, tetapi bersyarat.

SOP Untuk Ke Langkawi:

Terhad kepada individu yang telah lengkap 2 dos vaksinasi

Tiada had umur ditetapkan

Individu berumur bawah 18 tahun perlu bergerak bersama penjaga yang telah lengkap divaksinasi

Perlindungan insuran serta saringan COVID-19 tidak diwajibkan

Jenis Percutian Yang Dibenarkan:

Harian (pergi dan pulang pada hari yang sama)

Bermalam

Menempah penginapan/ tiket masuk terlebih dahulu

Pakej pelancongan melalui syarikat pelancongan yang berlesen dan berdaftar dengan MOTAC

Bilangan penumpang setiap kenderaan semasa dalam perjalanan adalah tertakluk kepada kapasiti sebenar kenderaan tersebut

Pelancong menaiki feri dibenarkan bermalam di premis penginapan berdaftar di Kedah/ Perlis

Jika anda melepasi segala kriteria yang disebutkan, anda boleh memilih dua cara untuk ke sana, iaitu melalui jalan darat atau jalan udara. Untuk sesiapa yang menggunakan
kapal terbang
, ianya lebih mudah berbanding jalan darat.

Jalan Udara (Kapal Terbang)

Pelancong tidak wajib guna khidmat agensi pelancongan

Tidak perlu surat kebenaran PDRM

Jalan Darat (Jalan Raya)

Pelancong perlu guna khidmat agensi pelancongan

Sekurang-kurangnya pengangkutan dari destinasi permulaan ke jeti feri ke Langkawi

Hanya pelancong dari Kedah dan Perlis tidak wajib guna khidmat agensi pelancongan

Perlu mendapatkan surat kebenaran PDRM bagi tujuan rentas negeri dan SJR

Pelancong perlu menunjukkan bukti dokumen pembelian produk pelancongan seperti tiket penerbangan, tiket feri, resit hotel atau resit pakej pelancongan semasa
memohon kebenaran dengan PDRM
 dan ketika diminta oleh penguatkuasa agensi pematuhan SOP.

Aktiviti-Aktiviti Yang Dibenarkan Di Langkawi:

Penginapan di hotel dan homestay termasuk fasiliti dalam premis hotel dan homestay seperti surau, kolam renang, gymnasium, lounge, dewan, Business Events (MICE), Acara Pelancongan dan Kebudayaan tertakluk kepada SOP Am Fasa 4 dikeluarkan oleh MKN serta SOP Kementerian/ Jabatan/ Agensi yang berkaitan

Aktiviti pantai, sukan air, snorkeling, selam skuba, pelancongan memancing, pusat edutainment, taman rekreasi, extreme/ adventure/ nature parks, farms, akuarium, zoo dan lain-lain kegiatan riadah, rekreasi serta sosial

Aktiviti Pelancongan Minat Khas (golfing, scuba diving, cycling, angling, yatching dan sebagainya)

Aktiviti Eko Geo-Kembara (bird watching, caving, mountain climbing, white water rafting, hiking, jungle trekking, camping dan sebagainya)

Premis hasil seni, budaya dan warisan seperti muzium, perpustakaan, galeri seni, pusat/ kampung seni warisan budaya, pementasan persembahan budaya dan lain-lain

Taman Tema dan Pusat Hiburan Keluarga

Lawatan Bersifat Akademik seperti Geopark Discovery Center, Balai Seni, Laman Padi

Kementerian akan terus melakukan pemantauan terhadap keberkesanan program perintis ini dan akan mendapatkan maklum balas daripada masyarakat berkaitan program ini secara keseluruhan dalam tempoh masa dua minggu. Maklum balas ini kelak akan dinilai dan dikemukakan kepada Majlis Keselamatan Negara (MKN) untuk pertimbangan tindakan lanjut.

Jika ia berjaya, kerajaan bakal membuka lebih banyak destinasi pelancongan yang dikenal pasti selaras dengan aspirasi MOTAC. Sesiapa yang ingin bercuti ke Langkawi diminta mematuhi SOP yang telah ditetapkan agar Gelembung Pelancongan Langkawi ini kekal hijau dan seterusnya dapat merealisasikan perancangan lebih banyak gelembung pelancongan domestik di masa akan datang.


1.57 Juta Pekerja Diberi Surat Kebenaran Pergerakan - Polis Terima Mana-Mana Surat Kementerian Bagi Urusan Kerja

Menteri Perdagangan Antarabangsa dan Industri,
Datuk Seri Azmin Ali
 berkata, sebanyak 586,308 syarikat telah berdaftar dengan Covid-19 Intelligent Management System (CIMS 3.0) bagi mendapatkan kebenaran beroperasi sepanjang
Lockdown 3.0.

Daripada jumlah tersebut, hanya 128,150 atau 21.8% surat kebenaran beroperasi ketika tempoh lockdown bermula 1 Jun hingga 14 Jun 2021 telah dicetak melalui CIMS 3.0 yang melibatkan seramai 1.57 juta pekerja di seluruh Malaysia.

Mengenai aduan dan dakwaan orang ramai bahawa CIMS 3.0 telah dibolosi dan boleh mendapat kelulusan walaupun berada di bawah sektor yang tidak dibenarkan beroperasi, Azmin berkata, Kementerian Perdagangan Antarabangsa dan Industri (MITI) terbuka kepada sebarang bentuk aduan mahupun kritikan.

Azmin turut menegaskan bahawa MITI bukanlah penentu tunggal dalam memutuskan sama ada sesuatu sektor itu dianggap penting atau tidak kerana surat kebenaran beroperasi CIMS 3.0 hanya boleh dikeluarkan setelah kementerian-kementerian yang mengawal selia sektor yang dibenarkan beroperasi, memberi pengesahan kepada MITI.

Sehingga kini, terdapat 15 Kementerian telah menggunakan sistem CIMS 3.0 bagi memudahkan proses penilaian permohonan kebenaran untuk beroperasi di bawah sektor masing-masing. Setelah kementerian-kementerian terbabit mengesahkan permohonan-permohonan berkenaan, syarikat yang berkenaan boleh terus mencetak surat kebenaran beroperasi melalui CIMS 3.0.

*Kredit grafik: Kementerian Perdagangan Antarabangsa dan Industri

Walau bagaimanapun, surat kelulusan untuk beroperasi bukan dikeluarkan oleh MITI setelah mendapat pengesahan daripada kementerian-kementerian yang menggunakan CIMS 3.0 sahaja. Ada juga surat kelulusan beroperasi yang dikeluarkan oleh kementerian lain seperti Kementerian Pertanian dan Industri Makanan (MAFI) yang menggunakan sistem kelulusan kebenaran bekerja yang diselaras oleh MAFI. Kementerian Pengangkutan turut menggunakan sistem dalaman Sistem SMILE (Sistem Maklumat Industri Logistik) bagi tujuan yang sama.

Susulan perkara itu, orang ramai boleh terus menggunakan surat kebenaran pergerakan daripada mana-mana kementerian dan jabatan berkaitan ketika melalui
Sekatan Jalan Raya (SJR)
 kerana pihak polis tetap akan menerima surat dikeluarkan oleh mana-mana kementerian atau jabatan berkaitan bagi urusan kerja orang awam.

Senior Asisten Komisioner (SAC) Gerakan Jabatan Keselamatan Dalam Negeri dan Ketenteraman Awam Bukit Aman, SAC M. V. Srikumar M. Nair mengesahkan bahawa arahan tersebut datang daripada Ketua Polis Negara sendiri, iaitu Datuk Seri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani.

*Kredit foto: Sinar Harian

Ketua Polis Negara telah memutuskan dan mengarahkan supaya semua anggota polis yang berkhidmat di SJR untuk menerima pakai semua surat pergerakan baik daripada MITI, kementerian atau jabatan walaupun selepas dua tiga hari yang dikatakan bagi memberi kelonggaran.

Beliau berkata demikian ketika mengulas laporan yang mengatakan pihak berkuasa tidak menerima surat dikeluarkan oleh Kementerian Pengangkutan atau MITI. Srikumar berkata, pihak polis di sekatan jalan raya akan memberi kelonggaran “dalam dua atau tiga hari akan datang” bagi mereka yang bekerja untuk syarikat yang masih belum lagi menerima surat kelulusan MITI. Beliau menegaskan surat kelulusan daripada kementerian berkenaan, jabatan atau
agensi sektor
 mereka beroperasi masih diperlukan.

Terdahulu, Kementerian Pengangkutan (MOT) mengeluarkan kenyataan bahawa pemandu dan penumpang bas ekspres, lori, dan kenderaan komersial lain bawah kategori perkhidmatan penting yang harus melakukan perjalanan di seluruh negeri hanya perlu memohon surat kelulusan daripada mereka. Pemegang surat kelulusan kementerian tidak perlukan surat kebenaran tambahan untuk melakukan perjalanan
rentas negeri
 selama perintah kawalan pergerakan penuh berlangsung.


2018 BMW X2 Now Open For Booking In Malaysia – sDrive20i M Sport CBU, From RM320,000

BMW Malaysia today announced that it has started taking orders for the 2018 BMW X2 compact SUV, due to make its Malaysian debut within the coming months.
Details are already available on BMW Malaysia’s official website and from what we can see, the X2 will be offered here in only one trim level – the front-wheel drive sDrive20i M Sport, fully imported from Germany.
Powering the X2 sDrive20i M Sport is BMW’s B48 2.0 litre four-cylinder petrol engine which produces 192 hp and 280 Nm of maximum torque, paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission which sends all the power to the front wheels.
On the exterior, key features include the M Aerodynamics package, 19-inch M light alloy wheels, lowered M Sport suspension, BMW Individual high-gloss Shadow Line, M logo on the sides, and an M rear spoiler.
Inside, the X2 sDrive20i M Sport gets M door sill finishers, M driver footrest, leather sport seats,  M Leather steering wheel, BMW Individual headliner Anthracite, Aluminium Hexagon trim, a shortened gear lever with M designation, exclusive LED optical fibre in the door trims, as well as a key fob with exclusive M logo.
Other standard features include LED headlights and fog lights, Comfort Access keyless entry, automatic air-conditioning, Parking Assistant, a head-up display, GPS system with an 8.8-inch screen, a powered tailgate and also a reverse camera.
As the X2 is positioned as a sportier alternative to the RM230,800 (excluding insurance) locally-assembled X1, coupled by its fully-imported status, it has a significantly higher price tag, at RM320,000 excluding insurance.


Continental Launches New Generation 3 Truck Tyres

Continental Tyre PJ Malaysia Sdn  Bhd (CTM) has officially launched its new range Generation 3 truck tyres, consisting of the Conti Hybrid HS3, Conti Hybrid HT3, and ContiUrban HA3. Each tyre model is designed specifically for use with different axles and developed with the uniquely harsh conditions of Asian roads in mind.
“Continental’s new Generation 3 represents a milestone in the premium segment of commercial vehicle tyres. With an impressive 20% increase in mileage performance and up to 6% improved fuel efficiency, the new Conti Hybrid 22.5 sets the standard for cost effectiveness in the truck tyre industry. In addition, Generation 3 truck tyres come with the C3 Conti Casing Warranty which is a steadfast commitment to the quality Continental provides in its products,” said Mr. Cameron Wilson, Managing Director of Continental Tyre Malaysia.
The Conti Hybrid HS3 is a steer axle tyre featuring improved casing and greater steel cord strength for better retreadability. The new and straight outer grooves is also claimed to provide more precise steering feedback while the stone ejection feature and heat endurance have been supposedly improved from the previous generation tyre.
This tyre is designed for use in regional roads and major motor ways on vehicles such as container hauliers, auto carriers, hazmat tankers, general and container cargos as well as for refrigerated goods carriers.
The HT3, meanwhile, is a tyre designed for the trailer axle with its tread pattern improved to allow for optimum wear and tear. This tyre is also designed to allow multiple-times retreading. It is meant for us in the same conditions and vehicles as the HS3.
For city use, Continental has the Conti Urban UA3 designed for use by buses tackling narrow streets, curbs, and stop-and-go traffic. Its dedicated urban tread compound and greater tread width is claimed to deliver as much as 20 percent longer mileage and 2 percent better fuel consumption than its predecessor tyre. Furthermore, its wider tread ribs and high-density interlocking stripes is claimed provide better wet weather grip.
Also introduced at the same time but part of a separate line of products was the HDR2+ tyre designed for regional and long-distance users, especially for goods delivery. Thanks to its advanced tread design and the specialized wear resistant compound, Continental claims that the HDR2+ drive axle tyre delivers 25% more mileage compared to its predecessor, the HDR1.
Continental is offering these Generation 3 products in all popular sizes used in these segments. The Conti Hybrid HS3 steer axle tyre is available in the size of 295/80R22.5 while the Conti Hybrid HT3 trailer axle tyre is available in size of 11R22.5.
Meanwhile, the ContiUrban HA3 all-axle fitment tyre is available in sizes of 275/70R22.5 and 11R22.5, whilst the HDR2+ drive axle tyre is available in sizes of 11R22.5, 295/80R22.5 and 315/80R22.5.
These tyres are manufactured in Continental‘s PJ plant and are now available at CTM dealerships nationwide – BestDrive, Continental, Dunlop Klinikar, and Viking Stores as well as direct sales to fleets.


No gimmicky vehicles allowed for election purposes said JPJ

JPJ will not be allowing any parties to modify vehicles beyond regulations for GE15 campaign purposes.

We've just entered the month of November, which means many parties will kick start their general election 15 circuses into gear.

Although there's a certain amount of leeway for them to start posting banners,flags and posters in most places, the road transport department (JPJ) is unwilling to give them that much freedom, especially when it comes to campaign vehicles.

Usually, some parties will modify vehicles for campaign purposes, but (JPJ) has given an early warning that it will not compromise against any political parties that have modified vehicles beyond regulations.

According to Bernama, JPJ Director General Datuk Zailani Hashim has come out and said that if a vehicle is found to not meet the specifications set by the Land Public Service Agency as a commercial vehicle, it may be subjected to action under the Land Public Transport Act (Act 715), which is the misuse of permits and vehicle modifications.

"There is no 'lesen besar' for any party to modify their vehicles this GE season," he said.

He also said that JPJ expects increased traffic around the main voting dates and has urged Malaysians to obey road regulations to avoid accidents or inconveniences.

The Election Commission (SPR) had set Nov 19 as the voting date for GE15, while the candidate nomination process will be done on Nov 5, followed by early voting on Nov 15.


New Shell Helix Ultra 0W-30 And Why Its A Big Deal

Following the hugely successful Shell Helix Ultra 5W-40 with PurePlus Technology, Shell Malaysia shocked everyone with the launch of the new PurePlus 0W-30 Helix Ultra. Why? Because this is not only class leading lubricant here, it's also rather expensive, and explicitly for newer cars as the low viscosity will allow for better fuel savings and performance as well.
It's not just commercial talk we're making here, as anyone who understands engine oil will want to talk about the base oil and impurities. Because fundamentally, even if it's fully synthetic oil, you need a base oil to begin with, and using Shell's GTL technology (Gas to liquid), which Shell actually chain up the atoms from a molecular level, creating a liquid that is perfectly pure and free of impurities, they have a base oil that is 'scientifically perfect' to begin with for making engine oils.
Hence we're not just making advertorial statements here, this stuff is good. But like all things good, there's a price, and it's only available at selected Shell stations or service centers only. I personally also switch to Helix Ultra PurePlus when it was launched as I know the benefits of GTL based oil. The previous 5W-40 is packed in Hong Kong while this new 0W-30 is packed in Germany.
How does one select which engine oil? Well, a word of advice, is that ANY little barn shed factory can purchase cheap baseoil, mix in additives to achieve viscosity levels of 10W 60 or 5W 30, those are just an indication of "How thick they are at which temperature" but if global multi billion corporations pour in billions in R&D and build facilities that are multiple football fields in size to produce engine oils for your car, what makes you think those little unknown factories have the capacity to ensure such levels of scientific intricacy? Here's some of the interesting facts about during their presentation.
Do note, the first commercially viable GTL plant in the world - is our beloved Malaysia Boleh!


Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid Launched In Malaysia - From RM103,390

About a month after Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) opened the order books for its first ever hybrid model in Malaysia; the Ioniq, the car was officially unveiled today, available in two variants.
Ioniq
 HEV: RM103,390
Ioniq
  HEV Plus: RM114,165
*Prices indicated are OTR with insurance
Powered by
Hyundai’s
 1.6-litre four-cylinder GDI Kappa engine and a 44PS electric motor, the car, which is a full hybrid like the Toyota Prius, produces a total output of 141PS and 265Nm of maximum torque. Drive is sent to the front wheels via a 6-speed automatic dual clutch transmission, while the electric motor is powered by a lithium-ion polymer traction battery.
Thanks to the powertrain package, claimed fuel consumption readings stand at 25.6 km/l.
Built on a new and dedicated platform, the base model Ioniq HEV boasts of a rather extensive list of standard features:
Seven-airbags
ABS with Brake Assist
Hill Start Assist Control
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Vehicle Stability Management (VSM)
LED Daytime Running Lights
60:40 split folding rear seats
Steering wheel audio control
Keyless entry and go
Cruise control
Dual-zone climate control
Park assist
Rear view camera
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Black Glossy radiator grille
Halogen projector headlamps
Bulb-type rear combination lights
Fabric seats
4.2-inch TFT LCD Supervision cluster
Audio system with 5-inch LCD touch screen
The range-topping HEV Plus gets even more additional goodies like:
Chrome radiator grille
HID Bi-xenon headlamps
LED Positioning lamps
LED Rear lamps
Leather seats
8-way adjustable driver's seat with 2-way lumbar support
7-inch HD TFT-LCD Digital Cluster
Electro-chromic rear-view mirror
Audio system with 7-inch LCD touch screen
Automatic wiper
Wireless charging for smartphones
Blind Spot Detection
Lane Keeping Assist System
Lane Departure Warning System
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Autonomous Emergency Braking System
Smart Cruise Control System
Rain sensor
Measuring 4,470mm long, 1,820mm wide, and 1,450mm tall with a wheelbase length of 2,700mm, the Ioniq is similar in size to most
C-segment sedans
 in the market. It is also worth mentioning that the car’s body is built with 53.5% advanced high-strength steel and lightweight aluminium.
First previewed to Malaysians in
My Auto Fest 2016 held at MINES Convention Centre
 in May, the Ioniq is locally-assembled at the Sime-Darby Motors plant in Kulim, Kedah. Being a locally-assembled hybrid, it qualifies for tax incentives for locally assembled Energy Efficient Vehicles (EEVs). It also comes with an 8-year warranty for the traction (hybrid) battery, while the vehicle itself is covered by a 5-year/300,000km manufacturer's warranty. HSDM also added that once the lithium-ion battery's 8-year warranty period is over, the replacement battery cost only less than RM10,000 should it need a replacement.
And then, there is the 3-years/60,000km free service programme which includes parts, labour, as well as engine oil. Last but not least, the Ioniq is also offered with a 3-years Guaranteed Auto Protection (GAP) insurance - Should the car be declared as 'total-loss' within three years of ownership due to any unwanted incident, customers will be reimbursed fully (100% value of the car).
First introduced in March of this year at the Geneva Motor Show, Hyundai's Ioniq is the world’s first vehicle to offer three distinct electrified powertrains on a single, dedicated vehicle platform. The Ioniq is available in other markets such as North America as either an all-electric, hybrid or plug-in hybrid vehicle.


Continental MaxContact MC6 Tyres Launched In Malaysia; 2-4 Metres Shorter Wet Braking Distance

Continental has launched the new MaxContact MC6 tyre for the Malaysian market. The new tyre replaces the MC5 and is tuned to offer even sportier driving characteristics whilst maintaining the predecessor’s standards of noise and comfort.
The MC6’s launch brings the MaxContact family in line with Continental’s Generation 6 tyres joining the UltraContact UC6 and ComfortContact CC6 tyres launched last year.
Designed with the specific needs of the Asia Pacific market in mind, the MC6 is claimed to deliver significant improvements in wet and dry handling, wet braking, and mileage performance.
The MC6’s tread pattern is asymmetrical. Dedicated zones on the tread design are each meant to achieve a high level of performance covering all four directional forces applied to the tyre.
Most distinct elements of the tread pattern are its chevron grip elements on the inside, designed to allow even distribution of cornering pressure without deforming significantly, thereby enhancing overall grip.
The longitudinal ribs of the tread pattern are strengthened to avoid block distortion under acceleration and braking, and their shoulders accordingly angled to minimize slanting under heavy cornering forces. Edges of the ribs are chamfered to prevent rolling-in of the ribs, thereby enhancing cornering stability.
Between the ribs, grooves on the outer side of the tyre are lined with stabiliser bars to minimize sideways flexing of the shoulder blocks for enhanced handling and cornering grip. Breakers are also placed to break down noise waves flowing through the grooves.
At the launch event of the MC6 held in Sepang Circuit, members of the Malaysian media had the opportunity to put Continental’s new tyre through a series of controlled tests against its MC5 predecessor.
Most noteworthy was the shortening of its wet braking distance. Various individuals attempting the exercise consistently recorded a minimum 2-metre reduction in the distance required to slow a BMW 330e from 70 to 5 km/h under full braking force. This writer, for the record, took 22 metres in the MC5 and 18 metres in the MC6. It is the difference between getting into a severe crash and avoiding one altogether. The distances were measured by a GPS tracking device.
In the emergency lane change exercise attempted in the Mercedes-Benz C200, the MC6 felt noticeably more sure-footed and directionally stable than the MC5 under extreme maneuvering.
The MC6 product range has sizes ranging from 16 to 20 inches. Majority of the range are manufactured locally at Continental’s Alor Star plant; exception are the 20-inch sizes, which are fully imported from Europe.
Sizes of the MC6 available in the Malaysian market are as follows:
16 inches
205/45 R16 87W XL
17 inches
205/40 R17 84W XL
205/45 R17 88W XL
215/45 R17 91W XL
215/50 R17 95W XL
215/55 R17 94W
225/45 R17 94W XL
225/50 R17 98W XL
225/55 R17 101W XL
235/45 R17 97W XL
245/40 R17 95W XL
245/45 R17 99W XL
18 inches
215/45 R18 93W XL
225/45 R18 95Y XL
225/50 R18 95W
235/45 R18 98Y XL
235/40 R18 95Y XL
235/50 R18 101W XL
235/55 R18 104Y XL
245/40 R18 97Y XL
245/45 R18 100Y XL
255/35 R18 94Y XL
265/35 R18 97Y XL
19 inches
235/35 R19 91Y XL
245/35 R19 93Y XL
245/40 R19 98Y X
245/45 R19 102Y XL
265/30 R19 93Y XL
275/30 R19 96Y XL
275/40 R19 105Y XL
285/30 R19 98Y XL
20 inches
245/35 R20 95Y XL
245/40 R20 99Y XL
255/35 R20 97Y XL
265/40 R20 104Y XL
275/35 R20 102Y XL
285/35 R20 104Y XL
295/30 R20 101Y XL
295/35 R20 105Y XL


GM - Indonesia's Oldest Car Manufacturer To Quit In Q2, 2015

General Motors, the manufacturer that has been producing cars in Indonesia since 1938, has announced late yesterday that it will cease manufacturing cars at the company's Bekasi plant in June 2015.
Although the company will no longer be producing cars in Indonesia, its vehicle retail sales operations will continue as usual, relying exclusively on full-imported models, mostly from Thailand.
“GM Indonesia is undergoing a market-driven transformation,” said Stefan Jacoby, GM executive vice president and president, GM International. “This transformation will strengthen the business and dealer network by focusing on building the
Chevrolet
 brand and delivering a competitive, high-quality portfolio to meet the needs of customers in Indonesia.”
GM also said that the decision to discontinue its manufacturing operations in Indonesia was driven by problems with high material costs and reduced potential to utilize the local supplier base due to limited scale.
The Bekasi plant has an annual production capacity of 40,000 units and currently produces the Chevrolet Spin for the Indonesia, Thailand and the Philippines market. The plant was opened in 1995 but was shut down in 2005, before GM reactivated it again in 2013.
Prior to the opening of the Bekasi plant, GM had another plant in Tanjung Priok, the first car plant in Indonesia.
With the shuttering of the Bekasi plant, the next available source for the Spin will be Brazil, but given that they do not make right-hand drive versions of the Spin, it is safe to say that the Spin will be dropped from Chevrolet's line-up in ASEAN.
GM also announced that GM Indonesia's President, Michael Dunne, will be leaving the company to start his own business.
Prior to joining GM in 2013, Michael Dunne was the founder of Bangkok-based Automotive Resources Asia in 1993, an automotive industry consultancy which he later sold to J.D Power and Associates in 2006, before starting another consultancy based in Hong Kong, Dunne & Co. in 2010. He speaks fluent Thai and Chinese language, and has spent a large part of his career in China.
Dunne is also the author of American Wheels, Chinese Roads: The Story of General Motors in China.
In the interim, between Dunne's departure and the announcement of his replacement, the position of President of GM Indonesia will be handled by GM Indonesia's Chief Financial Officer, Pranav Bhatt.


North America Gets Bigger Civic-Based Honda HR-V For 2023

Instead of
launching the global model HR-V
 in North America, Honda has instead decided to offer the nameplate as a mostly bespoke new model that’s based on the
C-segment 11th-generation Civic
.

They like things bigger in North America, as could be apparent from the average belt size, but also quite obvious with their taste in cars. The HR-V as we’ve known it has been a hit in pretty much every market it lands in, even ones where it adopts the odder Vezel name, but declared too small by customers in the Far West.

Many have attributed this move from Honda as a reactionary one to the success of
the Toyota Corolla Cross
, which is more or less unaltered from the version that’s sold everywhere else in the world. Though plenty of us have sampled both, we’d actually argue that that HR-V feels just as roomy thanks to that inexplicable Honda packaging.

Still, it does call into question if this bulkier HR-V will start
to cannibalise the CR-V
, which had already been a close rival to the Corolla Cross. We won’t be at all shocked if this does make it to showrooms in other regions at some point, though under a different name.

This North America specific HR-V also wears a new exterior design that definitely does have some region-specific aesthetic going on. It looks like like it was penned by Acura, unsurprisingly, and doesn’t exactly stand out as a Honda if the badges were absent.

Just have a look at that front end, where the slim headlights have an L-shaped daytime running light signature and meet a downwards trapezoidal central grille that could’ve come a Ford factory. Viewed from its side, is again could come across as rather generic even next to the Civic upon which it’s based.

The crossover does exhibit the longer wheelbase to accompany the increase in overall length and width. Speaking of which, it also inherits the sedan’s door-mounted wing mirrors and multi-link rear suspension setup. The latter should theoretically give it superior dynamics over the global-spec HR-V and its Toyota Corolla Cross nemesis.

Frustratingly, Honda has not disclosed any details about this US-specific HR-V’s mechanicals, meaning we don’t quite know how closely it mimics the Civic or if it borrows powertrain bits from other areas of the Honda vehicle portfolio.

That said, our guess would be that it’ll be offered with a choice of a naturally aspirated or forced induction petrol engine. Specifically, the 2.0-litre four-cylinder i-VTEC with 160PS and 187Nm or a beefier 1.5-litre VTEC Turbo tuned to deliver 180PS and 240Nm.

If Honda really wants to give the CR-V a hard time, it could also seize its e:HEV powertrain which uses the
same i-MMD hybrid drive unit
 technology found in the City RS in Malaysia. However, its wheel are hooked up to a gutsier 182PS/315Nm electric motor that’s replenished/boosted by a 2.0-litre Atkinson-cycle naturally aspirated four-cylinder.


New 2015 Lexus ES Makes ASEAN Debut In Thailand

Nearly three months after its global debut at April’s Shanghai Auto Show, the new Lexus ES is now available in ASEAN, with Thailand being the first market in the region to introduce it. The model is expected to make its way to Malaysia in the coming months.
As mentioned in our
earlier report
, China, Russia, and Taiwan will be getting a new turbocharged variant – the ES200t, which will be powered by the same impressive 2.0-litre turbocharged 8AR-FSE that we have already sampled in the Lexus NX200t. The rest of the world, including us, will continue to get the regular ES250 and ES300h.
It is unclear if the new base model, the ES200 (available in China) will be introduced here, but we think that scenario is quite unlikely. Instead the ES250, with a circa RM260k price, will remain as the ES line’s entry point in our market.
The ES200 is powered by the equally impressive dual-cycle (switches between fuel economy-biased Atkinson cycle and performance-biased Otto cycle on the fly)
6AR-FSE 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated engine
. The 6AR-FSE is already fitted to the new Camry 2.0G and 2.0E.
This mid-life update ES model features a more distinctive daytime running light pattern, new LED projector headlights, as well a more prominent Lexus spindle grille. Behind, the tail lamps have also been updated to feature a new ‘L motive’ LED light pattern.
Inside, Lexus' signature Shimamoku steering wheel, which was first introduced in the Lexus LS, and later the GS, now graces the ES' interior. In the Lexus LS, the Shimamoku steering wheel takes 38 days to create, using Japanese craftmanship techniques.
Interior trimmings have also been updated, with a new leather boot-enclosed gear selector. The car's Remote Touch Interface (RTI) control has also been improved and now adds “Enter” buttons on either side of the interface controller.
Curiously, the ES range in Thailand is limited only to the ES300h hybrid, which is priced at 3.5 million Baht.


Review: New W222 Mercedes-Benz S-Class – When Defence Is Harder Than Ever Before

What do you do when you have to cede a commanding position to an overwhelming enemy force? You buy time for escape by throwing everything you have at the enemy, beer bottles included. That’s what Private Bill Speakman did during the Korean War when his company’s position was overwhelmed by enemy fire and an incoming wave of 6,000 Chinese troops.
With chances of surviving an escape slim, Bill and six other men filled their pouches with grenades and lead a counter charge. When they ran out of grenades, they started throwing beer bottles and stones.
He was shot in the leg and shoulder and when an army medic was distracted, he ran back into the line of fire. Yes, they retreated, but the actions of Bill and his six other friends meant that many young British boys were able to return to their mothers. For that, Queen Elizabeth II awarded him with the Victoria Cross. He was promoted to Sergeant and later sent to Malaysia to fight the Communist Insurgency. We owe our peace today to men like him.
The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class is in a position that’s not too different from Bill’s in the 38th Parallel North. With neither tax-deducted S400h nor the new S560e plug-in hybrid being available, that space in the market will certainly be controlled by the BMW 740 Le (still tax deducted, at RM 564,946 without SST) in the coming months.
Further complicating matters is that the S-Class’ underpinnings are older than the Carbon Core chassis 7 Series, and this puts a theoretical limit on what Mercedes-Benz engineers can improve with this facelift.
An all-new S-Class is at least several years way so the S-Class nameplate has to dig deep for a good defence, just like Sergeant Bill Speakman.
We had an opportunity to briefly sample the new S-Class on the roads surrounding Zurich, giving us a foretaste of what to expect. The model tested here is an S560, which we won’t be getting, at least not in this trim. The S560 is only available to us as a Maybach but still, the 'regular' S560 allows us to gauge the refinement of the new S-Class’ cabin and the car’s overall character.
Specifications for W222 Mercedes-Benz S560 (European market model)
Engine: 4.0-litre V8 twin turbo
Power: 469 hp between 5,250 – 5,500 rpm
Torque: 700 Nm between 2,000 – 4,000 rpm
Transmission: 9-speed torque converter automatic, rear-wheel drive (4Matic all-wheel drive also available)
Safety: 8 airbags (including two seatbelt airbags for rear passengers), ABS, ESC, Pre-Safe with Pedestrian Detection, Brake Assist Plus, blind spot monitor, 360 degree view camera, Intelligent Drive with Driving Assistant Package.
Price: N/A
Origin: Manufactured in Sindelfingen, Germany
Overview
Premiered in May 2013, the W222 generation S-Class was given a mid-lifecycle update in the middle of last year. The main highlight for the new facelift model is its range of new engines, including an all-new M256 3.0-litre twin turbo inline six-cylinder. However this engine is only available in Europe. Our locally-assembled S450 will continue to use a detuned version of the M276 3.0-litre twin turbo V6 engine from the 43 series AMG cars, as are other markets including USA, Australia, and China.
Rivals include the BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, Lexus LS and Jaguar XJ; but realistically its only rival is the
locally-assembled BMW 740 Le
, simply because it’s priced the closest.
Exterior
When viewed from the front, it’s very easy to tell the new S-Class apart from the pre-facelift model. The signature grille’s slats are now thicker while the MultiBeam LED headlamps now feature a triple ‘torch light’ pattern daytime running light. Changes in the rear are more muted, limited only to mildly tweaked LED tail lamps and a new bumper.
Interior
Inside, the most noticeable change is the new three-spoke steering wheel, replacing the previous model’s two-spoke item. It now comes with touch sensitive buttons on either sides, allowing for easier two-axis operation of infotainment and driving assistance functions.
The display on the dashboard has been upgraded with a widescreen format. As before, it’s still made up of two 12.3-inch screens joined together but the difference is that the bezel separating the two screens is now so thin that the two screens appear as a one-piece display.
Wireless charging is now available for compatible smartphones.
The Linguatronic voice command system has also been improved, but from our brief experience, it’s still poorer than the natural language input system used by Volvo. The COMAND infotainment is mostly unchanged, which is another way of saying user interface remains poor.
Ironically, the Mercedes-Benz with the best infotainment system is not the S-Class, but the all-new A-Class, which features Mercedes-Benz’s latest MBUX interface. However as the new S-Class is still built on an older architecture, MBUX will only be available in the next generation model.
Driving Experience
Nobody buys an S-Class expecting it to handle like a BMW but even so, the S560 doesn’t drive like a land barge. It’s more of riding the clouds in a Boeing jetliner than floating in a cruise ship; immensely capable of delivering a magic carpet ride at speeds.
The M176 V8 under the bonnet is the same engine that powers those perpetually angry 63 series AMG cars; farting exhaust notes, growling intakes and all, but in the S560, it’s been sedated by milder computer codes.
The 9G-Tronic automatic transmission is also new, replacing the previous 7G-Tronic and is standard on all non-AMG S-Class. Normally, we are not big fans of Mercedes-Benz transmissions as they’re typically slow to respond but when paired to a big and torquey V8, the shortcomings were not felt.
When judged on its own, the new S-Class traces the tarmac very well. It has sufficient agility to get you out of tricky situations but there’s no masking that this car weighs over two tonnes.
It is only when you pit it against an equivalent Carbon Core chassis BMW 750 Li that the extra 150 kg weight penalty becomes obvious, but we are talking about driving maneuvers that would make a chauffeur lose his job immediately.
Comfort
What the S-Class lacks in outride handling prowess, it more than makes up for with its supremely well insulated and comforting cabin.
Shut the tightly sealed power-assisted closing doors, pull up the blinds to cover the thick noise reducing windows and the S-Class becomes a mobile refuge from the racket outside. We absolutely love the fluffy pillow behind. Set the rear sets in maximum recline, pull up the leg rest, and take a nap.
Our test car is configured as a four-seater, trimmed in Nappa leather, which again, is different from the standard leather used in our local S450, which is a bummer because Nappa leather is available in our local BMW 740 Le.
This particular S560 comes with the optional ‘Energizing Comfort’ function, which depending on the selected modes – Freshness, Warmth, Vitality, Joy, Comfort – adjusts the air-conditioning system’s integrated fragrance diffuser, LED ambient light colours, music (it analyses the beats per music for any stored music files), and massager rear seats to create a particular mood. The function runs for a maximum of 10 minutes.
As before, Airmatic air suspension is a standard item on all S-Class variants but this particular S560 adds the Magic Body Control feature, which uses a pair of cameras mounted on the windscreen - the same pair used by the Intelligent Drive driving assistance feature - to scan the road ahead and proactively adjust the dampers shortly before the car takes a corner, thus keeping the car level.
If there’s any shortcomings, it’s the TV remote-like infotainment control for the rear occupants. Having experienced the ease of control and wide range of functionalities of the BMW 7 Series’ removable tablet, this just won’t cut it and it feels like a big step backwards.
Fuel Economy
What sort of person buys an S-Class and asks about fuel economy? Well in many markets, a company’s vehicle fleet contributes to their green certification assessments so if you have to know, the S560 is rated at 6.6-litre/100 km. Our 130 km plus drive on mostly countryside roads and a brief run on the highway saw the S560 averaging slightly below 11-litre/100 km.
Conclusion
While this twin turbo V8-powered S560 is not officially on sale here in Malaysia, you can however get the same engine in the Mercedes-Maybach S560.
The car seen here may not be a good representation of our local S450 but it sets the tone for the S-Class’ reputation and character. We will publish our review of our local specifications S450 once we get our chance behind the wheel.
Despite being the oldest among its peers, the S-Class doesn’t disappoint. Far from falling behind, its cabin appointments and the way it insulates you from the outside world remains peerless. The weakest link in the car is its COMAND infotainment system, whose confusing layer of menus makes it less intuitive to use than the 7 Series’ iDrive. The rear seats also lack a removable tablet or touch screen control panel, which is the norm these days.
Read more:
New 2018 Mercedes-Benz S450L CKD In Malaysia, From RM699,888


No Further Proton-Honda Collaborations After Accord And Perdana

Yesterday, Bernama reports that Proton Holdings will be launching three new models next year, developed in collaboration with Honda, leading many to believe that there will be more rebadged Honda models coming our way.
Furthers checks with reliable sources familiar with the matter however revealed quite the opposite.
While conceding that a new Proton Perdana will be launched next year (current model is only limited for government use) and it will be based on the previous generation Honda Accord, the source confirms that there will be no further model collaboration with Proton beyond the previous generation Accord.
Not much is known about the new Proton Perdana, but like the current model, it will still be based on the previous generation Honda Accord, but this time, it will have more Proton-specific styling elements.
The report by Bernama quoted Proton’s Chairman Tun Dr. Mahathir as saying that the 3 new models are an improvement over the existing Saga, Persona and Perdana, made with collaboration from Honda.
"In the automotive industry, we are always borrowing technology. Major car companies are always exchanging technology. In this regard, we are only using Honda's platform with the rest coming from our own efforts.
"The new models are equipped with the latest safety features and design. I really hope that all three models will enter the market in stages from January next year and will be well-received," said Tun Dr. Mahathir.
Was Dr. Mahathir referring only to the upcoming new Proton Perdana when commenting on the collaboration with Honda, with the remaining two models coming from either Proton or Proton's new partner
Suzuki
? Or is he jumping the gun with regards to any future work with Honda?
To date, Honda Motor Co. has not made any announcements about extending its existing collaboration with Proton.
As the collaboration is between Proton Holdings and Honda Motor Co., Honda Malaysia declines to comment on the matter.
See also:
Proton-Suzuki Deal: A Quick Look At The Potential Models Coming Our Way


Proton Inspira Recalled Over Drive Belt Pulley Wear, Full Details Here

Following
a recall made by Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia
 over some of its CBU models a month ago,
Proton
 is following suit to issue their own recall for its early
Proton Inspira
 models, which as we know, largely utilised Mitsubishi drivetrains.
Models affected are the ones manufactured between September 2010 to May 2011, and total 5,280 vehicles in the market right now. Issuing letters to affected owners, Proton is urging them to visit any of its authorised service centres nationwide for a free inspection – all labour and parts costs related to the issue will be provided FREE of charge.
More details provided by Proton reveal that the “Drive Belt Pulley” unit in the affected Proton Inspira models may “develop pulley wear after a certain mileage or driving conditions.”
Notice of the pulley damage could include: engine overheating, battery depletion, and reduction in the power steering effectiveness.
If you are affected by this, feel free to contact Proton at their Customer Care Hotline (1800 888 398) or send an email to: customercare@proton.com.


The Mercedes-AMG C63 Bids Farewell To V8s? Next Gen May Pack Inline 4 Hybrid Powertrain

Just as we wrote about the
local launch
 of the new Mercedes-AMG GT R and GT C, we bring some potentially worrying news. According to a report by
Autocar
, it seems that Mercedes-AMG may be binning the 4.0-litre twin turbocharged V8 that powers the C63 in favour of an 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-4 powertrain aided by a hybrid system.

If that recipe sounds familiar, it's what Polestar is doing with their Polestar One, and there's no doubt that other manufacturers will have to adopt it in the future as well. The engine in question is the M139 that powers the upcoming Mercedes-AMG A45S, where in its most potent form it produces an eye watering 416 hp and 500 Nm of torque.

The deficit in performance figures will be made up for with an electric motor supplying a hefty amount of power and torque. The C63 as we know it packs 469 hp and 650 Nm of torque, while the C63S goes further with 503 hp and 700 Nm of torque - courtesy of their turbocharged V8 powertrains.

There's no doubt that these new ultra-downsized performance powertrains will be able to make the necessary figures, but it is a little disheartening that even Mercedes-AMG is being forced into a corner by emissions and efficiency regulations. This hybrid powertrain will eventually pop up in each new generation of the 63 line-up - meaning that it's highly likely this is the last generation of V8 powerplants from Mercedes-Benz as a whole.

While great for hot hatchbacks and even fairly lightweight performance cars, the inline-4 engine layout lacks both the refinement and the aural experience of either an inline-6 or a V8 powertrain. We have far too many inline-4 engines on the market, coming in everything from compact city cars to full sized SUVs.

Another frustrating problem is to extract such large performance values from such a small displacement means there will inevitably be a noticeable amount of turbo lag - as the turbo necessary to make the power is invariably bigger. This can be resolved through torque filling with the electric motor as McLaren does with their P1, but it is a solution that is heavily reliant on battery charge levels.

Whatever it is, it's best that you buy your V8-powered Mercedes-AMG model as quickly as you can. Prices are only expected to go up as these cars will be a rarity in a world of fairly bland inline-4s. Find the best deals on Mercedes-Benz models
here
, or check out our used car selection for a V8-powered C63
here
.


Can A Dakar Rally Truck Keep Up With A WRC Rally Car?

There are many types of rally championships out there, and the most popular ones are arguably the World Rally Championship and the Dakar Rally.
Although both competitions fall under the rally category, they are very different from one another, right down to the type of vehicles racing in them.
While the WRC sees small, agile hatchbacks driving through stages with tight turns and limited view where the smallest mistake could lead to a crash, the Dakar rally is a completely different discipline which takes place on the desert. But that doesn’t mean that it is any less challenging than the WRC.
The best part about Dakar is that it even has a truck category, and one of the stars of the competition is this 10-ton, 900 horsepower Kamaz truck.
But can you imagine a Dakar Truck going through a WRC stage?
You will be surprised.
We don’t know what drove Red Bull to do this but in the brand’s latest awesome promo video, Finnish WRC driver Jari-Matti Latvala took the wheels of the Polo R, followed by Russian driver Ayrat Mardeev in the Kamaz 4326.
Actually, this is not the first time Mardeev is up to something as adventurous as this as he even drove the diesel behemoth up the Goodwood Hillclimb at the Festival of Speed earlier this year.
Although the truck was not in its natural habitat, the way it kept up with the Polo was simply mindblowing.
Alright, let us cut to the chase and enjoy the video:


Police To Actively Clamp Down Hard On Reckless Drivers

Authorities will take stern action against drivers that drive dangerously and risk the safety of the other motorists, even if said dangerous drivers are not directly involved in the resulting accident.
Reckless drivers are a menace. We think we can safely assume nearly all motorists have come across several such individuals while on the road.
The shift in focus to find and apprehend these irresponsible people was announced by Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Rashid Ibrahim, as reported by
The Sun Daily
. Police have been mulling the move to curb the high rate of road accidents and fatalities.
"These are motorists who drive dangerously, zig-zagging in traffic and causing collisions between other vehicles as a result. Though these drivers are not involved in the accident, their reckless and inconsiderate attitude endangers other road users. We are going after these drivers and hope to trace them with the help of public closed-circuit cameras and other means. Such drivers must face stern action." he said during a press conference on Wednesday.
"Malaysia could be considered to be in the top 10 of countries with the highest number of accidents. Stern action and costly fines may help. In Europe, if one fails to use safety belts, the fine is 300 euros. This has helped in enforcing the law. We have put our suggestions and future initiatives to the Home Ministry for discussion." he said today after handing out awards to 15 defensive drivers in conjunction with Ops Selamat 7 in Cheras.
The statistics for this year’s Hari Raya operation, titled Ops Selamat 7, compared to last year’s
makes for grim reading
: there was a 10.7% rise in road accidents to a total of 20,458, and road fatalities had risen 39.2% with 330 deaths with 60.6% of that made up of motorcyclists.
In total, Police issued 145,066 summonses during the two-week operation, with over 90% of that comprising of speeding violations.


Isuzu Dura-Miles Challenge 2018 – Drive Your Way To A Free Holiday

Isuzu will soon kick-off it's Dura-Miles Challenge 2018. Between 13th August 2018 and 31st October 2018, participants can test both the superb fuel efficiency of the Isuzu D-Max pickup, and their own driving skills by taking part in a fuel-economy challenge for a chance to win the grand prize of a vacation package worth RM3,000.
The Dura-Miles Challenge contest consists of two independent parts. The first part is a fuel efficiency challenge, the second is a creative photo contest with a designated photo wall. All Malaysians with a valid driving license and in good driving fitness are welcomed to participate.
Contestants can sign-up for a test drive at any participating Isuzu dealership, after which, they are required to drive a pre-determined route (depending on the dealership’s location). Vehicles will be refuelled before and after the test drive to measure the amount of fuel used. Upon completion of the test drive challenge, participants are required take their most creative photo with the Dura Miles photo wall, and share their photos on Facebook or Instagram with the hashtag: #isuzuduramiles.
Each participant may take part in this contest once per day, and not more than twice a month during the campaign period. The recommended test drive time is between 10:30 am to 4:00 pm. Participation outside of the recommended time is at the discretion of the showroom’s manager with consideration of traffic conditions.
Second and third place contestants for the fuel economy challenge will receive RM 1,000 and RM 500 in cash vouchers respectively. The creative contest awards ten lucky winners with RM 1,000 in cash vouchers.
The current fuel efficiency record is 23.8 km per litre of fuel; achieved during the
2015 Dura-Miles Challenge
; where four Isuzu D-Max trucks were driven from Bangkok to Singapore (a total of 1,809 km), each using less than one full tank of fuel.


The Best And Worst Time To Drive In KL This Thaipusam According To Waze

With almost 1.5 million Hindu pilgrims and tourists from all around the region set to make their way towards Kuala Lumpur to celebrate Thaipusam at Batu Caves this weekend, traffic conditions are going unforgiving.
So, if you happen to be scratching your heads wondering when to head to KL, the folks at Waze have come up with the prediction for the best and worst time to drive in Kuala Lumpur on the 20th and 21st January, which is as mentioned below:
Sunday, January 20th, 2019
Worst time: 10-11am
Best time: 7-11pm
Monday, January 21st, 2019
Worst time: 4-5am
Best time: 8-9pm
Waze users can also stay ahead of traffic by using the ‘Planned Drive’ function to notify them when to leave in order to reach Batu Caves - or their destination of the day - on time.
The ‘Planned Drive’ feature can also sync with a phone’s calendar to help coordinate the day in a stress-free fashion.
And while you are on the road, you may also identify new and faster routes with the help of Waze or any similar app.
So, remember the times mentioned above, turn on your navigational assistance, be safe, and have a blessed Thaipusam this weekend.


Petrol Station Operators Must Keep The Bowsers Flowing – KPDNHEP

With the direction by the Ministry of Finance to move to a weekly managed float and an indication of
lower fuel prices from January 1
st
 2019
, fuel dealers were sternly warned to keep their premises open as well as having sufficient supply of fuel.
In a report by
the Star,
 the president from the Bumiputera Petrol Dealers Association, Datuk Abu Samah Bachik was quoted as saying that pumps were expected to be dry on Tuesday (December 31st) as operators refuse to top up their reserve at the end of this month.
Datuk Abu said the dealers do not want to purchase new stock of current the costing, only to sell at a much lower retail price from January 1st.
As such, the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry (KPDNHEP) issued a reminder to petrol dealers to adhere to their business licenses, which included ensuring sufficient supply of fuel at their premises for daily sales.
Ministry Secretary-General Datuk Seri Jamil Salleh said fuel was a controlled item and the Government ensured its supply and availability at all times.
“Failure to adhere to these conditions as stated in their license is an offence. Legal action can be taken against errant operators,” said Datuk Seri Jamil. A fine up to RM 1 million or a 36-month jail sentence can be ordered to those who breach their licenses.
 “We will be monitoring petrol stations nationwide to ensure these premises operate as usual with sufficient supply,” he added.


2016 Mazda CX-9 enters production

Mazda
 Motor Corporation has just announced that it has commenced production of the all-new CX-9 three-row SUV.
Currently being produced at Mazda’s Ujina plant No.1 in Hiroshima, Japan, the first units produced are said to be destined for the U.S. and Canada markets.
Being one of Mazda’s high-end models, the CX-9, which was
 first unveiled at the 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show
, features the full range of Skyactiv technology and Kodo-Soul of Motion design.
To coincide with the commencement of production of the new model, Mazda has begun manufacturing a new 2.5-liter direct injection turbocharged gasoline engine called Skyactiv-G 2.5T at its Hiroshima Plant.
Aiming to sell 50,000 units annually, Mazda said that it is expecting the North American market to account for 80 per cent of its global sales of the CX-9. Sales of the new model is all set to start in mid-2016.
The new CX-9 will be the first in Mazda’s line-up to receive their
2.5-litre SkyActiv-G 2.5T
 petrol engine which replaces the 3.7-litre V6 in the outgoing model, while outclassing it by every metric.
The new turbo petrol unit, based on the naturally aspirated 2.5-litre SkyActiv-G offered in the Mazda CX-5 and Mazda 6, is now their most powerful generating up to 250PS and 420Nm of torque (in the North American version). Mazda is touting their Dynamic Pressure Turbo and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system as the main advancements behind their new powerplant.
Looking for a Mazda? Find one now at
Carlist.my


Geneva 2019: New Mitsubishi ASX Unveiled Prior To Motor Show

First introduced in late 2010, and having a number of improvements and facelifts over the years, the new Mitsubishi ASX SUV continues to be powered by the 2.0-litre naturally aspirated engine with MIVEC variable valve timing, paired with a CVT-type automatic transmission.
The Dynamic Shield front design has blended incredibly well with the original shape of the nearly a decade-old ASX. Slim LED head lights are mounted at the extreme edges, with a large-sized auxiliary lighting assembly beneath it. Sharp vertical and horizontal lines plus a skid plate under the bumper add strength and toughness to the design.
At the rear, Mitsubishi has updated the graphics in the tail lamp to project a sense of width for the ASX. A more aggressive bumper design with a skid plate matching the front design completes the new look.
Styling on the inside, unfortunately, did not receive any liberty unlike the exterior. There seem to be no changes to the steering wheel, air conditioning switches (still no temperature display), and the overall interior design itself. While there is a new bezel surrounding the touch screen infotainment unit, this might only be limited to the highest variant.
Seen here is a Rockford Fosgate system with a display screen measuring eight inches.
With the ASX now updated to the Dynamic Shield front design, almost all of the Mitsubishi model line-up now features the ‘family’ look (only the Lancer is left out).
The new Triton
 pick-up is the most recent product to feature this new front design in Malaysia.
Joining the Mitsubishi display area at the Geneva Motor Show 2019 is
the Engelberg Tourer concept
, an electrified SUV which promises to “bring more SUV, more EV, more technology, and more style”.
In Malaysia, Mitsubishi Motors offers the
locally-assembled ASX
 in two variants: the 2WD priced from RM 118,866 and the AWD priced from RM 133,336.08.


There is a 2022 Honda HR-V For Everyone!

Malaysian HR-V fans are lucky, as they have the luxury to pick and choose a lot more than what our neighbours are getting, there is a 2022 Honda HR-V variant for everyone in Malaysia.

Over its seven-year run, Honda has managed to sell
111,000 units
 of the HR-V in Malaysia.

The compact SUV from Honda is one of the most favoured compact SUVs in the market, loved because it provides just the right balance of performance, fuel efficiency, comfort, style and most important of all, value for money.

The popularity of the HR-V however started to dwindle at the turn of the current decade as its age was starting to show. The infiltration of Proton's savvy SUVs and the introduction of Toyota's locally assembled Corolla Cross didn't help either.

But Honda Malaysia had a plan up their sleeve to make the Honda HR-V great again. Their plan was to introduce something that would surprise HR-V fans, building upon the new HR-V's versatility.

The new HR-V Large Project leader Yoshitomo Ihashi from Honda Japan said that the new compact SUV is designed to be quieter, safer and more premium while delivering better driving enjoyment than the outgoing model.

He also said that Honda's development team decided that from the very beginning that the new HR-V would be made available with a few different powertrains and that this would make the HR-V more versatile than ever.

While other markets picked a couple of powertrains to front their new HR-V assault, buyers in Malaysia are lucky enough to be
offered three powertrain options
 for Honda Malaysia's latest model.

In comparison, the new HR-V in Thailand only gets the hybrid variant, RS e:HEV, while
Indonesia and the Philippines
 get the 1.5-litre DOHC i-VTEC naturally aspirated engine and 1.5-litre VTEC Turbo.

Malaysia on the hand got all three powertrains, and the reason for this is that Honda Malaysia wants to have the broadest possible customer audience for its HR-V, making it available to pretty much anyone.

So which one is best for you?

For those who love its style but don't need performance - go NA

The 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine used in the S variant is of course the least powerful engine in the line-up, but then again, it is also the cheapest HR-V. This is the same engine used in the 2022 Honda City Hatchback, which produces 121 PS and 145 Nm of torque. Although it is the same, Honda has tuned the ECU to provide more performance in the HR-V.

For comparison, the output of this engine is 21 PS and 27 Nm less than the 1.8-litre engine from the 2nd-gen HR-V. Honda Malaysia however claims that the port injection engine should still be great to drive as it has comparable performance to the outgoing 1.8-litre engine.

For those who love the style and want performance - go Turbo!

Technically, the intermediate variants, E and V are the
fastest cars in the line-up
. It is powered by the VTEC Turbo L15C3 engine, which produces 181 PS and 240 Nm of torque.

However, all this performance has a price, as it is also the thirstiest car in the line-up, returning 6.5l/100km, which is the worst fuel consumption figure out of the three. So if fuel efficiency is a major concern then this is not the model for you.

For those who want the best of everything - go Hybrid RS e:HEV

Like the Honda City, the
top-of-the-range 2022 HR-V is a hybrid
. It uses the same intelligent-Multi Mode Drive (i-MMD) power unit found in the
Honda City and City Hatchback
. The electric motor used on the 2022 HR-V has been tuned to be more potent than the City and City Hatchback, giving an additional 22 PS of grunt.

The powertrain combines a 1.5-litre Atkinson cycle engine as well as two electric motors that provide an overall output of 131 PS and 253 Nm.

The hybrid variant utilises the electric motor more than the petrol engine, which is why it is the most fuel-efficient HR-V in the line-up (4.1 l/100km). The petrol engine is mainly used to recharge the HR-V's lithium-ion batteries when moving at certain speeds.

Although Honda wanted to take the HR-V hybrid up a notch, they had to keep things simple as simplicity is the key to reliability, said Yoshitomo. This is why they have decided to use a tried and tested powerplant but give it a bit more grunt to compensate for its extra weight.

Although the mid-spec HR-V is technically the fastest, Honda Malaysia says the hybrid variant provides a different type of sportiness, as the hybrid system has available torque from the get-go.

Better handling however is available across the board

Furthermore, according to the Large Project Leader of the All-New Honda HR-V, Yoshitomo Ihashi, the excellent handling of the new HR-V is contributed by the rigid chassis, suspension improvements, and dimension changes.

"With the addition of length, height, and lower ground clearance, the new 2022 Honda HR-V is more stable," he concluded.

So as you can see, there's an HR-V for everyone. Malaysian HR-V buyers are fortunate as they can pick and choose between three different price points and powertrains, to suit their needs and budget. All you have to put up with
is the wait!


2015 Mazda 3 CKD, 6 And CX-5 Facelifts Due For April Launches, Sources Say

Oh yes, April 2015 is going to be a very busy month for the automotive industry, and post-GST, Bermaz has been reported to be very much involved in it all.
Our sources have just let us in on a bit of information that is believed to confirm the arrival of three new vehicle launches from the official
Mazda
 distributor:
Mazda 3
 CKD (Sedan and Hatch)
Mazda 6
 Facelift
Mazda CX-5
 Facelift
2015 Mazda 3 CKD:
Just yesterday, we showed you
a snippet of the Mazda 3’s initial spec sheet
 that has leaked its way on to the interwebs, and after a bit of snooping around, we’ve managed to uncover a few more details about the coming model and its siblings – note that these aren’t official details, so best be waiting until Bermaz opens up themselves before placing any orders.
PRICES:
 For the Mazda 3 CKD, our source tells us that prices for the sedan are estimated to be RM105k for the mid-spec variant, and RM120k for the high-spec version. The hatchback M3 will be priced closer to the high-spec sedan, but will offer fewer features than the sedan – sort of placing itself between the two sedan options. Prices for the hatch are also rumoured to be near the RM120k mark.
SPEC:
We’ve been told that the Mazda 3 CKD mid-spec (RM105k est.) will feature very similar features to the current CBU from Japan model which retails for RM139k, but won’t come with a sunroof. The high-spec variant, as seen in the leaked document yesterday, will benefit from a Head-Up Display, Commander Control feature, i-Active Sense suite, full leather seats and more.
The hatchback will feature fewer features than the high-spec sedan, but certainly more than the mid-spec. From the leaked document, it looks like a healthy serving of 18-inch alloys, Bi-Xenon headlamps, Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS), shift paddles and more, but no leather seats :(
2015 Mazda 6 Facelift:
Sources tell us that Bermaz will be launching the new Mazda 6 (CBU) around the same time the 3 CKD and CX-5 make their debuts here. Local-assembly (CKD) for the model is expected to begin much later in the year, but when the CKD Mazda 6 does come, you can bet on it shaking up the current crop of D-segmenters.
Reworked inside and out for the 2014 LA Auto Show late last year, it looks to us that Bermaz is wasting no time in delivering its facelifted Mazda 6 sedan to Malaysians – and yes, sources suggest that a Touring variant will continue to be offered here.
Keeping its line-up of 2.0 and 2.5-litre SkyActiv-G petrol engines and SkyActiv-DRIVE six-speed auto transmissions won’t be any surprise, but elsewhere, there’s a lot to savour.
Outside, we saw the new M6 at the LA Show to feature a new front grille design, new headlamps and taillights, a shark-fin antenna and two new body colours to choose from: Sonic Silver Metallic and Titanium Flash Mica.
Inside, the Mazda 6 benefits from a new dashboard that now features the brand’s latest MZD Connect infotainment system, a seven-inch touchscreen and a Command Controller rotary dial on the center console.
We remember Mazda revealing that a lot more effort has been put into its new 6 to reduce Noise Vibration and Harshness (NVH) by 10% on rough roads, and 25% on highways – these are all benefits of the Mazda 6 which make a world of difference, but don’t always scream the loudest on a brochure, so do take note.
Being one of the earlier vehicles to have come from the brand’s recent uprising, the Mazda 6has also been updated to feature the latest version of the i-ACTIVESENSE suite of safety features: Lane-Keep Assist System, Driver Attention Alert, and more. Again, if or not these will make it to the Malaysian spec car is anyone’s guess, but we wouldn’t be too surprised if they did.
Unfortunately, local assembly of the Mazda 6 hasn’t been included to Bermaz’s public “to-do” list, so the car will still be a CBU unit coming to us from Japan.
2015 Mazda CX-5 Facelift
As expected, sources have confirmed to us that Bermaz will be launching its facelifted hit CX-5 in April. The new mid-size SUV is the first Mazda to feature the brand’s new KODO Soul of Motion design language and philosophy, and like the Mazda 6 facelift, will benefit from an update to keep up with the times.
Like the 6, exterior design has been refreshed, and it’s the same case with the interior benefiting from a new dash design, MZD Connect, better NVH levels, and so much more.
A whole new array of driver assistance systems were unveiled for the CX-5 at the LA Auto Show last year, like Mazda Radar Cruise Control, Smart Brake Support, Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane-Keep Assist System and so much more – but again, it’s anyone’s guess as to whether these things come to Malaysia or not.
It’s going to be an exciting April, 2015
Needless to say, post GST April is shaping up to be a massive month for the auto industry, and Bermaz is wasting no time.
Which Mazda will you be visiting at a showroom come April, then?


Video: Unknown Man Left His Honda Civic After Toll And Went Bonkers

Not that we want to laugh at this Honda Civic owner. But given the numerous scenarios that we are currently facing as Malaysian motorists
(as listed below),
 we can't help but want to join him as well.
Rising car prices
Toll rates that increased disproportionately
Petrol prices that are still comparatively high
Living costs that are expected to shoot up even higher
Roads and infrastructures that aren't fixed
That dreaded 6% GST
Crime rates that are on the rise
Public transport fares that will soon go up
The haze that is killing each and everyone of us slowly
Simply not feasible to consider driving taxi as second income
Might get beaten if opt to be a UBER or GrabCar driver
Might get your car confiscated if you opt to be a UBER or GrabCar driver
What to do? Apa lagi orang Malaysia mau? Watch the video below


Perodua Opens New 3S Centre In Sri Aman

Perodua and Gamma Automobile have opened a new 3S (Sales, Service, and Spare Parts) outlet in Sri Aman, Sarawak to further provide a wide network of sales and support for the automaker's customers and dealers.
“Sri Aman has the potential for growth and we believe that Gamma Automobile is the right partner to further grow
Perodua
’s presence here in Sarawak,” Perodua President & CEO, Datuk Aminar Rashid Salleh said during the opening ceremony.
“Perodua sees a lot of growth potential in East Malaysia and we are delighted to be working with Gamma Automobile to further improving our coverage in order to better serve our customers,” he said.
The Sabah and Sarawak state governments continue to develop and invest in infrastructure in roads and bridges, making more and more of the each state accessible by car. Aminar believes that this expected potential for growth is ample for Perodua.
He also said that the expectation was also based on the five-year roadmap that was outlined recently on May 21
st
 as part of the 11
th
 Malaysia Plan, “with this growth, we plan to increase our East Malaysia contribution towards our total sales to 20% from the current 13% in 5 years’ time.”
Gamma Automobile has been operating as an authorised Perodua 3S dealer since 1994 and its Kuching enterprise has 78 staff under its employ and sold 3,500 units and saw 13,100 intakes to its service workshop from its 3S centre in the Sarawak state capital.
“As business partners, we are very grateful to Perodua for their trust in Gamma Automobile and we are looking forward to further strengthen our business here in Sarawak,” Gamma Automobile Managing Director, Mr David Tay said.


2015 Mitsubishi Triton Appears On Local Website, From RM71k To RM114k

Amidst the hustle and bustle of the GST implementation,
Mitsubishi
 Motors Malaysia has taken the time to rather quietly introduce its all-new 2015
Mitsubishi Triton
 on its local website.
And they’ve spared us a bunch of details to share with you, so here goes. Else, if you want to know more about the all-new model, you can catch our previous reports of its
global debut in Thailand
, and then its European debut at the recent
Geneva Motor Show
.
The fifth generation Triton’s introduction to the world saw much excitement surround its brand-spanking-new 2.4-litre MIVEC VG turbo diesel (codenamed 4N15). However, the initial spec sheets we’ve been shown has no such engine listed! Bummer!
Here’s a quick look at the coming variants and their tentative prices:
2015 Mitsubishi Triton VGT Adventure (5AT): RM114,000
2015 Mitsubishi Triton VGT (5AT): RM103,000
2015 Mitsubishi Triton VGT (5MT): RM97,000
2015 Mitsubishi Triton (5MT): RM87,000
2015 Mitsubishi Triton Quest (5MT): RM71,000
All five variants being introduced here will be powered by the trusty 2.5-litre DI-D Hyper Common Rail DOHC Intercooled Turbocharged (VGT), delivering 178PS and 400Nm of torque. The base variant gets on with the same mill, without the intercooler.
On their official brochure, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia is boasting quite a few “first-in-class” features for the pick-up, such as the Push-Start Button, Keyless entry, Xenon HID headlamps with Daytime Running Lights, and Paddle Shifters (Whattt??!!! Paddles on a pick-up?). All of these, however, are limited to just the VGT Adventure, VGT AT, and VGT MT variants only.
New to the Triton itself in Malaysia include a dual-zone climate control feature, a Easy Select 4WD select dial with shift-on-the-fly capabilities, a 6.1-inch touch-screen audio system with reverse camera, auto headlamps and wipers, and lots more. Again, bear in mind that not all of these will feature on all variants of the Triton. (Check out the gallery below for the full specs list)
Road Show Tour
The all-new 2015 Mitsubishi Triton will also be out for a nation-wide tour, and you can catch the pick-up at the following locations:
1 - 5 Apr, Mid Valley Megamall, West Lobby, Kuala Lumpur
6 - 12 Apr, Tesco Mergong, Main Concourse, Alor Setar
9 - 12 Apr, Sutera Mall, Sub Court, Johor
13 - 19 Apr, AEON Kinta City Shopping Centre, Sub Court, Ipoh
15 - 19 Apr, Queensbay Mall, North Court, Penang
20 Apr - 3 May, The Spring Shopping Mall, Center Court, Kuching
21 Apr - 10 May, Suria Sabah Shopping Mall, Court G4A, Kota Kinabalu
23 - 26 Apr, East Coast Mall, Main Entrance, Kuantan


KIA Seltos Finally Launched In Malaysia - from RM116k

The long-wait for the KIA Seltos is finally over as it has officially been launched in Malaysia.

News that KIA has launched the Seltos SUV in Malaysia has come as a bit of a surprise, especially when it is common knowledge now that
Naza
, the official distributor of KIA in Malaysia is looking to offload its automotive brands.

While the brand's future still in limbo, Naza who for now still manage KIA in Malaysia has seen it appropriate to launch the Seltos SUV, which has been teased to death since September 2019. We suppose since they opened it for
booking
 in October, it's high time really.

Well, here it is, available are two variants, the EX (RM115,888) and the GT Line (133,888). Fully imported from India, the two Seltos variants come with a five-year unlimited mileage warranty, and whoever takes over the brand from Naza in the future will have to honour it.

The
specifications
 of the cars have not changed from the ones that were teased. Both will still be powered by the same 1.6-litre petrol engine that we've come to know from various Kia models. It produces 123 PS and 151 Nm of torque and power is sent to the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission. The traction drive modes in the Seltos is quite interesting as you can choose from Snow, Mud and Sand which will then adjust the traction in order to match these conditions.

The GT Line packs additional equipment and aesthetic features for a sportier look. An aggressive front and rear bumper, chrome door handles, 17-inch bi-colour wheels and red accents on the outside. On the inside, the GT Line has leather upholstery with red stitching features and a larger infotainment and instrument cluster screen (compared to the EX). The Seltos GT Line also features a neat logo on the bottom edge of the steering.

There are 433 litres of boot space in the Kia Seltos which can be expanded to 900 litres. It is comparable to that of the
Renault Captur
,
Honda HR-V
 and
Mazda-CX3
. The rear-seatbacks are 60/40 split-folding which help to create more luggage room. As the Seltos is competing in the B-segment SUV, it's no surprise then that the overall vehicle dimensions are also similar to its competitors.

All variants come with similar safety kit, which includes six airbags, ABS with EBD and brake assist, stability control, hill start assist and ISOFIX rear child seat anchors.

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

Check out all the best new & used car deals in Malaysia at
Carlist.my.

Sell your car fast with the best offer? Visit us at
CarlistBid.my
.


Fuel Price Update: 7-13 Dec - Prices Drop

The Ministry of Domestic Trade, Cooperatives, and Consumerism (KPDNKK) has announced the new fuel prices for the next seven days and looks like there is good news once again.
While petrol price will decrease by 1 sen per litre, diesel price will drop by four sen per litre.
Below are the updated prices:
RON95 – RM2.29 per litre (down 1 sen from RM2.30)
RON97 – RM2.57 per litre (down 1 sen from RM2.58)
Diesel – RM2.21 per litre (down 4 sen from RM2.25)


Honda expands active safety suite with flagship Sensing 360

The Sensing suite by Honda has become one the first points of contact Malaysians have had with driver assist or active safety features, at least when it comes to the mass market. However, some new additions are coming in that’ll take it even further.

As a collection of technologies, it will be adding functionality currently beyond the reach of the conventional Sensing package found in pretty much every Honda model offered in Malaysia (
with exception of the BR-V
, first generation).

Autonomous Emergency Braking (branded as Collision Mitigation Braking System) will have cross-traffic and pedestrian detection capabilities. In addition, there is Front Cross-Traffic Alert as standard as well as Active Lane-Change Assist and Lane-Change Collision Mitigation.

If all that’s a little too technical, what it essentially means for future Hondas is the nearing of an autonomously piloted vehicle, able to change lanes without human intervention and even the overtaking of other vehicles under certain conditions.

There’s also Exit Warning, Driver Attention Warning, Driver Emergency Support that helps to prevent accidents when the driver is incapacitated, and Emergency Steering Assist. They all sound very useful in certain situations but of course hopefully we’ll never need to find out.

Overall, it’s quite the big step for Honda, but it’s unclear as to how quickly the brand plans to have Sensing 360 proliferated across the cars offered in multiple regions and countries. It’s possible that customers will have to pay an additional fee to install and activate, so we’ll keep you posted.

For now, it’s confirmed that new cars in China will be equipped with the enhanced Sensing tech from the 2024 model year onwards. Untung lah!

That being said, Honda is also working on an even more advanced safety suite called Sensing Elite that will naturally surpass the expanded abilities of Sensing 360, into which the current iteration of sensing is to be rolled into from 2024

Sensing Elite's more AI-focused approach to active safety will take more time to fully develop, but is planned to be introduced sequentially on a global basis from around 2025 onwards.

One of its core features, first seen in 2021 as Traffic Jam Pilot, already
qualifies for Level 3 automated
 driving technology. It's that kind of innovations that will trickle into the expanded Sensing 360 suite over the coming years.

Through these initiatives, Honda is aiming to reduce global traffic collision fatalities involving Honda motorcycles and automobiles by half by 2030, while aiming to eliminate all collision fatalities involving Honda
motorcycles and automobiles globally by 2050
.


2020 Mazda CX-30: First Drive Impressions

Mazda’s latest crossover, the CX-30, slots between the existing CX-3 and CX-5, or so says the Hiroshima-based automaker. Look hard enough and you might see the gap between those two models for this newest sibling to occupy. But has Mazda kept those ‘in-betweener’ priorities intact?

We already know the range-topping CX-30 variant is properly plush and well-specified, as it
should be for its price
, but with the car assigned to us being the base 2.0L, it was stripped of many of those materials and features.

Still, even on smaller 16-inch alloys (instead of 18-inchers on the High), the base CX-30 certainly has looks that are a cut above the rest. Mazda placed emphasis on making this new model as visually appealing to as broad a demographic as possible, and this isn’t diminished by choosing the entry-level variant. It’s sleek and squat with obvious echoes of the Mazda 3, for better or worse.

The first leg of the drive was spent sat at the back, where overall headroom and legroom seemed only marginally better than the (technically) smaller CX-3. The seats were fabric instead of leather, but soft hide was used to accent portions of the door panel and dashboard in shades matching the exterior. Out back, the 430-litre boot is large enough for most needs and verging on CX-5 levels but definitely isn’t a stand out in this class.

Refinement was far from lacking and easily bests mass market segment rivals. Sound insulation is above average, any vibrational interruption was dampened well, and the car showed very little structural flex. This feels like a very secure place to sit in regardless of how many active/passive safety systems are at play. The fact that the CX-30 is (currently) the most highly rated vehicle Euro NCAP has ever tested certainly helps matters too.

Behind the wheel, there was a rush of familiarity with the Mazda 3, one of the best-to-drive C-segment hatchback/sedans on sale today. Nearly every tactile and ergonomic cue has been carried over into the CX-30, giving us a dangerous expectation that it will drive just as well. Fortunately, it does come awfully close.

The naturally aspirated SkyActiv-G 2.0-litre’s rev range needs to be explored to be taken full advantage of, and though it manages to sound aggressive (but never gruff) past 4,500rpm, harshness levels were never elevated. Shifts from the SkyActiv-Drive 6-speed automatic were smooth but it needed to frequently downshift to access the power band as in-gear grunt can be in short supply if laden. For more effortless performance, the 1.8-litre SkyActiv-D should be considered as its maximum torque of 270Nm arrives much quicker and sustained for longer.

With our driving positioned dialled-in, the brief jaunt revealed an agile front end and eager direction changes that superbly mask its crossover label. Add to that the control weights and engine note from the 162hp/ 213Nm engine and it’s too easy to feel like you’re driving the Mazda 3.

The suspension is tuned to allow for more compression (and body roll) when loaded up mid corner and the thicker tyres make for a ride that’s a touch more impervious to light road imperfections, but in normal driving situations distinguishing the two models by feel alone is difficult.

Hastily declaring that the CX-30 is a slightly jacked-up Mazda 3 made to appeal to the crossover-crazed buying public is both cynical and somewhat reductive, true, but that formula has also been a point of criticism levelled against so many vehicles being sold today.

That said, among the sea of rivals, the CX-30 is definitely a strong contender that ticks off all the right boxes. It’s fun to drive, has exceptional build quality, is decently practical, well-specified (in the High variant), incredibly safe, comfortable, refined, and is probably the best looking of the bunch - if you’re into that sort of thing.

It’s very likely that Mazda has a winner on its hands, but we’ll have to wait for a full review to properly contextualise it and make heads or tails about the CX-30’s finer points and value proposition. Established players should watch their backs if and when Bermaz starts locally assembling these.


MAI Malaysia COTY 2017 – Honda Jazz Hybrid Wins Overall Award

The Malaysian Automotive Institute (MAI), in the run-up to their upcoming Malaysia Autoshow 2017 on 9-12 November at the Malaysia Agro Exposition Park Serdang (MAEPS), has announced the results of the Malaysia Car of the Year 2017.
A total of 27 awards were given away on the night, with the Honda Jazz Hybrid taking the Overall Car of the Year title after also winning the RM60,000 – RM100,000 Sedan and Hatchback category.
In addition to the main category awards, the Malaysia COTY also gave recognition to a number of cars through with a few special mention awards, including Good Design Award and Plug-In Hybrid Car of the Year for the Volvo XC90 T8, Hybrid Car of the Year for the Hyundai Ioniq, Top Export Car of the Year to the all-new Mazda CX-5, and Most Improved NVH for the newly-refined Proton Iriz.
Dato’ Dr Zahari Husin, Managing Director of Perodua Sales Sdn Bhd, was named Automotive Man of the Year, whilst the Tan Chong Group, for their combined efforts of bringing in the Nissan Leaf as well as a number of other Renault electric-power models, were recognized as Championsing Sustainable Mobility.
Overall list of winners are as follows:
Automotive Man of the Year 2017:
 Dato’ Dr Zahari Husin
Overall Car of the Year 2017:
 Honda Jazz Hybrid
Good Design Award 2017:
 Volvo XC90 T8
Plug-In Hybrid Car of the Year:
 Volvo XC90 T8
Hybrid Car of the Year:
 Hyundai Ioniq
Top Export Car of the Year:
 Mazda CX-5
Championing Sustainable Mobility:
 Tan Chong Group
Most Improved NVH:
 Proton Iriz
Sedan
 and Hatchback Below RM50,000:
 Perodua Bezza 1.0
Sedan
 and Hatchback RM50,001 – RM60,000:
 Perodua Myvi 1.5
Sedan
 and Hatchback RM60,001 – RM100,000:
 Honda Jazz Hybrid
Sedan
 and Hatchback RM100,001 – RM130,000:
 Hyundai Ioniq
Sedan
 and Hatchback RM130,001 –

RM160,000:
 Honda Civic 1.5 TC-P
Sedan
 and Hatchback RM160,001 – RM200,000:
 Toyota Camry Hybrid
Sedan
 and Hatchback RM200,001 – RM250,000:
 BMW 330e
Sedan
 and Hatchback RM250,001 – RM300,000:
 Mercedes-Benz C350e
Sedan
 and Hatchback RM300,001 – RM400,000:
 Mercedes-Benz E250
Sedan
 and Hatchback RM400,001 – RM500,000:
 Mercedes-Benz E300
Sedan
 and Hatchback Above RM500,000:
 Mercedes-Benz S400 Hybrid
SUV and Crossover Below RM130,000:
 Honda HR-V
SUV and Crossover RM130,001 – RM160,000:
 Honda CR-V 1.5 TC 2WD
SUV and Crossover RM160,001 – RM200,000:
 Kia Sorento 2.2 Diesel
SUV and Crossover RM200,001 – RM300,000:
BMW X1
SUV and Crossover RM300,001 – RM400,000:
 Mercedes-Benz GLC 250
SUV and Crossover RM400,001 – RM500,000:
 Volvo XC90
SUV and Crossover RM500,001 – RM700,000:
 Jaguar F-Pace
MPV Below RM100,000:
 Honda BR-V
MPV RM100,001 – RM160,000:
 Toyota Innova
MPV Above RM160,000:
 Kia Grand Carnival
Pick-Up Truck Below RM120,000:
Toyota Hilux Double Cab 2.4G (4x4)
Pick-Up Truck Above RM120,000:
 Toyota Hilux Double Cab 2.8G (4x4)
Coupe and Cabriolet Below RM350,000:
Subaru BRZ
Coupe and Cabriolet RM350,000 – RM550,000:
 BMW M2
Coupe and Cabriolet Above RM550,000:
 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S
All winners of the MAI Malaysia COTY 2017, as well as other models, will be on display and available for test drive at the Malaysia Autoshow 2017; a 100m off-road track will be setup specially for 4x4 models. There will be a number of new launches and previews as well. Entry is open to all members of the public, with tickets priced at RM10 each.
For ease of travelling, MAI has arranged a special promo with Grab offering RM8.00 off for two rides to the event venue with the promo code ‘Autoshow’. Upon arrival at the drop-off point, Grab passengers will additionally receive complimentary tickets to the Autoshow.


This Is A Preview By BMW Showing Nothing Of A Something That’s Supposed To Be The iNext

This is BMW’s preview of the iNext, an all-electric, Internet-enabled, semi-autonomous car that will be produced at BMW’s Dingolfing plant in 2021. BMW hasn’t revealed much else about the car other than it will be developed in parallel with the i4, another all-electric sedan which like many forthcoming BMW products, would certainly also have semi-autonomous driving capability.
This sole preview image was presented to shareholders of the BMW Group earlier today, with Harald Krüger, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, said: “The iNEXT project is our building kit for the future. It will benefit the entire company and all our brands. For the first time, we are combining all key technologies for future mobility in one vehicle. The iNEXT is fully electric, fully connected and also offers highly automated driving. Today, we gave our shareholders a very first glimpse of the design of the BMW iNEXT. Later this year, we will be presenting the BMW iNEXT as a Vision Vehicle.”
Keeping up with BMW’s constantly changing terminologies can be quite challenging, so we are not sure why is this BMW concept that was originally introduced as the
BMW Vision Next 100
 and now known as the iNext, is now being introduced once again as a Vision Vehicle.
Krüger told the shareholders: “Today, we wanted to give our shareholders an exclusive first glimpse. And I can reveal that we will be presenting the iNEXT as a vision vehicle later this year.
“It is our modular system for the future.
“If that sounds a bit like Lego, that’s roughly the idea. The iNEXT will benefit the entire company and all its brands. For the first time, we are combining all key technologies for future mobility. The iNEXT is fully electric, fully connected, and enables safe, partially autonomous driving. Further models will follow.”
Likewise the i4, which will be build in Munich (no specific timeframe). The i4 was originally introduced as the
BMW i Vision Dynamics Concept
, before being given the i4 name, but nobody knows how it looks like since the production car hasn’t been shown. So now you have the same car that the Internet refers to with two different names, depending on the timeline.
“The BMW i4 Concept was the star of last year’s Frankfurt Motor Show.
“A few years ago, “project i” started out as an independent project. Now, the letter “i” is coming to our core BMW brand. Going forward, all pure electric BMW models will sport the “i” badge and come equipped with fifth-generation battery technology. With an increased range of about 700 kilometres, electric models will become entirely practical for everyday use,” said Krüger.


Top Toyota Scientist Says World Lacks the Resources to Go All-EV

Another person from Toyota has come out and said EVs are not the answer, this time, it's their top scientist.

In recent years, Toyota Motor Corporation has flip-flopped with its opinions regarding electric vehicles. Their stance on electric vehicles (EVs) has been somewhat cautious compared to some other automakers.

While Toyota has been a leader in hybrid vehicle technology with models like the Prius, the company has taken a more conservative approach towards battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) and has prioritized the development of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) as
an alternative to traditional internal combustion engines.

A couple of recent comments by Toyota's top scientist has added more fuel to the fire that the EVs are not the answer. He's suggesting that the accelerating transition to electric vehicles could lead drivers to
hold on to their old gas guzzlers
, which might have detrimental effects on the environment and that the fast-paced adoption of EVs would cause some problems.

Gill Pratt, Toyota Motor Corp.'s chief scientist and chief executive officer of the Toyota Research Institute told reporters at the G7 leaders summit in Japan that "eventually, resource limitations will end, but for many years we will not have enough battery material and renewable recharging resources for a BEV-only solution," Pratt said.

"It will take decades for battery material mines, renewable-power generation facilities, transmission lines and seasonal energy-storage facilities to scale up." he said.

As the demand for EVs has increased globally, many automakers, including Toyota, have been adjusting their plans and increasing their investments in electric vehicle development, but every now and then, someone from Toyota will go against the grain and say otherwise, showing that as a company, they're a bit unsure on how to tackle the electric vehicle conundrum.


Geely Reportedly Buying Proton Off DRB-Hicom

A report from
Reuters
 has mentioned that Geely will reportedly be taking over Proton from DRB-Hicom, beating out rival PSA Group. The company will reportedly acquire a 49% stake in Proton.
Earlier
, DRB-Hicom requested for the trading of its shares to be suspended pending an announcement. The company's spokesperson could not be reached after office hours.
Elsewhere
, Proton has reportedly requested for more financial aid from the government. The amount requested is said to be at RM1.7 billion, for supporting its operation costs and poor sales. However, a report from The Edge said that the company will not be utilizing all the financial aid at one go. Instead, according to sources familiar with the matter, Proton will be using the funds as needed while its parent company, DRB-Hicom secures a deal for the foreign strategic partner. On top of that, the new loan will be used to repay vendors and other creditors.
Sources familiar with the bidding process added that Geely hopes to improve Proton's presence overseas, on top of improving Proton's overall sales, with the help of Geely's own technology.
Related:
Geely – Fridge-maker To Car-maker In Just 12 Years, Who Are They?


Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia Announces Year End Cash Rebates, Up To RM8,000 In Savings

From now until the end of December 2018, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia is offering attractive cash rebates when the book and register a new Mitsubishi model.
Customers who book a Mitsubishi Outlander, ASX, or Triton are entitled to get cash rebates of up to RM8,000, depending on the variant.
In addition to the cash rebates, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia is also offering a 20% discount on selected parts for customers who service their Mitsubishi vehicles from 1
st
 to 30
th
 November, plus additives at an attractive price and a free phone holder.


MAA- Prices Of New Vehicles Not Coming Down, Going Up Instead

While the sales and service tax (SST) bill is only scheduled to be passed in Parliament later next month, in time for reintroduction in September, the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) has indicated that the
sales tax for motor vehicles is expected to return to 10
percent
, similar to the pre-GST era.
This also means that with an increase in the tax rate from six per cent to ten per cent, prices of vehicles are expected to increase come the 1st of September.
Datuk Aishah Ahmad, President of MAA, opined that there will not be a revision in the
 overall tax structure that comprises of local excise duties and import duties
 during the 1H 2018 market review earlier today. The automotive industry is the second largest contributor to the government coffers and with the current administration in deep debt, there is no reason to reduce the revenue collected from a relatively strong annual new vehicle sales.
This was in relation to the topic of the reintroduction of the sales tax to ten percent and its upward impact to new vehicle prices. Datuk Aishah in response to questions from the media said, “We are forecasting (the Sales Tax) will be at ten percent. When we had our discussion with the Royal Malaysian Customs Department Director-General, he did indicate that for motor vehicles it (sales tax rate) will be at ten percent,”
“The Finance Minister has requested to the Royal Malaysian Customs Department Director-General to meet up with MAA and we have briefed him about our concerns that most likely car prices of most models will go up (with the reintroduction of sales tax at 10 percent),” she added.
With this change in tax rate, which certainly impacts the vehicle prices upwards, MAA has also revised the 2018 Total Industry Volume (TIV) from 590,000 units to 585,000 units.
This is due to the expected weaker demand for higher priced new vehicles from September, as well as consumers who already fulfilled their new car purchase during the zero tax period of June to August 2018.
While the increase of tax is four per cent, the new vehicle prices should not experience a four per cent hike versus their May 2018 prices. To get a feel of what is the quantum of six
percent
 GST to ten
percent
 SST rate, take a look at our older stories which tracked key brands and their models in April 2015 when the prices changed.
2015 News- Post-GST: Perodua announces a price reduction of 0.1% to 1.6%
2015 News- Post-GST: UMW Toyota guarantees transparency, up to RM4,000 reduction
2015 News- Post-GST: Prices of CKD Honda models slashed by up to RM2,500
2015 News- Post-GST: Prices of new Mercedes-Benz models on average RM2,000 cheaper


Litar 'Nürburgring Timur' Bernilai RM1.3 Bilion Dibangunkan Di Langkawi

Sebuah resort litar lumba mewah bertaraf antarabangsa bernilai RM1.3 bilion akan dibangunkan di Bukit Malut,
Langkawi, Kedah.

Projek resort bersepadu dan pembinaan
litar lumba bertaraf antarabangsa
, Open Road International Circuit and Integrated Resorts ini akan menampilkan litar lumpa sepanjang 5.8km yang disebut-sebutkan sebagai "Nürburgring di Timur".

*Kredit foto: Langkawi Kini

Litar Lumba Mewah Tarikan Baharu Langkawi

Menerusi laporan Langkawi Kini, Menteri Besar Kedah, Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor berkata selain litar lumba, resort ini turut merangkumi kemudahan seperti:

Pusat pengedaran kereta 4S

Kemudahan gudang garaj kenderaan

Akademi perlumbaan

Hospital sukan

Projek perumahan

Stesen minyak

*Kredit foto: Sinar Harian

Pada tahun lalu, Sanusi telah menjelaskan bahawa projek itu akan dilaksanakan di atas tanah seluas 66.7 hektar termasuk lapan hektar tanah kerajaan dan ia dijangka memberi manfaat kepada sektor ekonomi serta pendapatan penduduk apabila siap dalam tempoh lima tahun lagi.

*Kredit foto: Langkawi Kini

Ketika ini, papan tanda projek sudah pun dinaikkan dan pembinaan litar lumba bertaraf antarabangsa ini bakal menjadi tarikan baharu sektor pelancongan di Pulau Langkawi.