Proton Lancar 4 Model Special Edition – Saga & Iriz R3, Persona & Exora Black Edition

Proton telah mengumumkan pelancaran empat model Special Edition untuk kali pertama bagi tahun ini yang merangkumi Saga R3 dan Iriz R3 serta Persona dan Exora Black Edition. Yang pastinya, ianya edisi terhad!

Apabila
Proton
 mengumumkan pelancaran model
Special Edition
 ini, ramai yang tertanya apakah perbezaannya berbanding model sebelum ini. Adakah ianya hanya kosmetik atau ada pembaharuan pada prestasi kereta ini? Jom lihat keempat-empat model baharu ini dengan lebih teliti.

Proton Iriz R3 Limited Edition

Proton Iriz R3 2021
 akhirnya diperkenalkan pada umum setelah pelbagai spekulasi tular di media sosial selama berbulan-bulan. Sekiranya anda tahu sejarah Proton dan R3, pastinya anda akan mengharapkan sedikit penambahbaikan pada prestasi model ini. Walau bagaimanapun, anda akan sedikit kecewa kerana Proton Iriz R3 2021 ini hanya melibatkan penambahbaikan dari segi kosmetik luaran dan dalaman sahaja.

Namun begitu, penambahan dari segi kosmetik ini agak menarik juga bagi pandangan mata kasar. Proton Iriz R3 hadir dengan warna hitam Quartz buat pertama kali dalam sejarah pengeluarannya. Gril depannya diserlahkan lagi dengan perincian kemasan kuning R3 seakan akan
Proton Saga 35th Anniversary Edition 2020
. Selain itu, terdapat juga kemasan kuning pada kit badan R3 seperti pada skirt tepi dan bumper depannya.

Terdapat juga penambahan pelekat jalur R3 pada pintu yang disudahi dengan nombor 83 sebagai penghormatan pada kereta lumba Proton Iriz daripada pasukan Proton R3. Tempat lain yang menerima penambahan R3 adalah cermin hadapan, cermin belakang dan spoiler belakang yang memberikan gambaran seperti sebuah kereta lumba. Lencana R3 pada belakang Proton Iriz ini serta cermin sisi yang berwarna kuning menaikkan lagi seri kereta ini.

Perubahan yang paling ketara adalah rim aloi 16-inci R3 yang di cat dengan warna kelabu pada Proton Iriz 2021 ini. Meskipun ia sama seperti rim tayar Satria Neo CPS sebelum ini, namun ia tetap memberikan sentuhan yang lebih sporty pada model ini selain hadir dengan tayar Goodyear Excellence yang bersaiz 185/55.

Untuk bahagian dalaman, sentuhan gaya yang sama digunakan pada Saga 35th Anniversary Edition digunakan pada Iriz ini. Pendek kata, terdapat penambahan seperti kemasan bewarna kuning pada meter kombinasi, ventilasi dan tombol penyaman udara dan alas kaki khas R3. Tidak dilupakan, terdapat juga emblem R3 yang diletakkan pada panel instrumen.

Terdapat juga penambahbaikan pada kemasan duduk kekulit dan stereng kekulit pada model ini. Sentuhan jahitan logo R3 pada tempat duduk hadapan menambah lagi seri Iriz R3 2021 ini seolah-olah sebagai sebuah kereta lumba.

Proton Iriz R3 tidak menerima sebarang penambahbaikan dari segi prestasi dan mekanikal. Masih menggunakan enjin 1.6 liter VVT DOHC, berkemampuan menghasilkan 109 PS pada 5,750 rpm dan 150 Nm pada 4,000 rpm. Oleh kerana ianya Special Edition, hanya 500 unit Proton Iriz R3 2021 akan dipasarkan pada umum. Iriz R3 ini boleh didapati dengan harga RM52,900 (harga atas jalan) termasuk pengecualian SST yang berkuatkuasa sehingga 30 Jun 2021.

Proton Saga R3 Limited Edition

Sebelum ini, Saga telah pun muncul dengan
35th Anniversary Edition
 yang terhad dimana kesemua 1,100 model tersebut licin dijual dalam masa 5 hari sahaja. Sekiranya anda terlepas edisi tersebut, jangan risau kerana anda kini berpeluang untuk mendapatkan salah satu daripada 2,000 unit
Proton Saga R3 2021
 yang turut menawarkan penambahan kemasan unik yang lebih kurang sama seperti Proton Saga 35th Anniversary Edition sebelum ini.

Pada bahagian luaran, Saga R3 ini menggunakan kod warna hitam yang sama seperti Iriz R3 serta kedua dua model Exora dan Persona Black Edition. Saga R3 Limited Edition hanya akan ditawarkan dalam jumlah 2,000 unit sahaja. Pelekat badan bertemakan R3 turut terdapat pada bahagian cermin depan, cermin belakang serta bahagian sisi kereta yang disudahi dengan nombor 82 bagi mewakili nombor sebenar kereta lumba Saga yang digunakan sebelum ini.

Kit badan R3 yang digunakan pada model ini menyerlahkan lagi imej luaran model ini. Gabungan warna hitam bersama kemasan kuning pada cermin sisi, sisi badan kereta, gril depan dan belakang serta bumper depan memberi imej yang lebih mengancam dan 'sporty' pada Saga ini. Di bahagian belakang, lencana R3 ditempekkan di sebelah kanan nombor plat kereta manakala pelekat Limited Edition diabadikan pada belah kiri number plat.

Bagi bahagian dalaman, ianya seakan sama sahaja seperti keluaran 35th Anniversary Edition sebelum ini kecuali penambahan pelekat R3 serta logo R3 yang dijahit pada kerusi kereta. Kemasan kuning boleh dilihat pada meter kombinasi pangkal konsol tengah papan pemuka, penutup/pembuka corong penghawa dingin serta alas kaki khas R3.

Tiada sebarang perubahan dari segi mekanikal dan prestasi pada model ini. Ia masih menggunakan enjin VVT 1.3L empat-silinder yang menghasilkan 95 PS pada takat 5,750 rpm dan tork maksima 120 Nm pada 4,000 rpm. Model ini ditawarkan pada harga RM42,300 (OTR/ tidak termasuk insurans) setelah pengecualian SST sehingga 30 Jun 2021.

Proton Exora Black Edition

Kalau kedua dua model sebelumnya tadi versi R3, Exora hadir dalam versi
Black Edition
, sama seperti Persona.
MPV
 Proton ini menggunakan warna hitam dan dikemaskan lagi dengan jalur emas yang mengelilingi model ini, bermula dari bumper depan sehingga bumper belakang.

Proton Exora Black Edition ini menampilkan rim 16 inci dalam kemasan berwana emas, sama warna seperti logo Exora di belakang kereta. Namun walau bagaimanapun tulisan Turbo pada bahagian kiri belakang kereta masih lagi menggunakan warna lama, iaitu krom.

Bagi bahagian dalaman, terdapat dua bahagian - di sekeliling skrin sentuh dan perumah tombol gear yang turut menerima kemasan emas. Konsep jahitan kulit pada tempat duduk serta pintu kereta telah dinaiktaraf menggunakan benang emas.

Selain daripada yang dinyatakan, tiada apa yang baru terutama bagi sudut prestasi atau mekanikal model ini berbanding model sebelumnya. Hanya 500 unit ditawarkan bagi Proton Exora Black Edition yang boleh didapati dengan harga RM67,800 selepas pelepasan cukai.

Proton Persona Black Edition

Akhir sekali, Proton memperkenalkan
Persona Black Edition
 yang berasaskan varian 1.6 Premium CVT. Sama seperti model Iriz R3 serta Exora Black Edition, hanya 500 unit ditawarkan untuk model ini dengan harga RM54,000 (OTR) setelah pengecualian SST sehingga 30 Jun 2021.

Persona ternyata mempersonakan dengan kemasan emas pada bumper hadapan, belakang serta sisi kereta seperti Exora Black Edition. Tidak dilupakan, rim aloi bersaiz 15 inci turut diwarnakan dengan warna emas sama seperti logo Persona di bahagian belakang kereta.

Gril hadapan krom sebelum ini telah digantikan dengan kemasan hitam berkilat membuatkan Persona kelihatan lebih elegan dan macho. Kalau dah nama pun Black Edition, bahagian dalamannya turut dipenuhi dengan warna hitam seperti tempat duduk balutan kulit, kemasan pintu dan alas kaki. Sentuhan keemasan seperti di bahagian luar masih boleh didapati di bahagian dalam seperti corong udara, sekeliling rumah gear, tombol penghawa dingin dan jahitan pada upholstery kulit tiruan.

Selain itu, dari segi kemudahan serta keselamatan, tiada penambahan lain boleh dilihat pada Proton Persona Black Edition ini berbanding model Persona sebelumnya. Ia masih dikuasakan oleh enjin 1.6 liter VVT empat-silinder, dengan hamburan kuasa 107 hp pada 5,750 rpm dan tork 150 Nm pada 4,000 rpm.

Kesimpulan

Setelah melihat keempat empat model ini, Iriz R3 dilihat seperti model yang paling menyerlah antara mereka. Walaupun logo R3 yang digunakan pada Saga dan Iriz ini hanyalah bagi tujuan kosmetik semata-mata, ianya kelihatan menarik walaupun hanya penambahan minimum. Harga yang ditawarkan juga menarik perhatian. Namun sejujurnya, Proton terlepas satu peluang besar untuk memperkenalkan Saga serta Iriz versi R3 yang ditambahbaik dari segi kecantikan serta prestasi. Nampak gayanya, R3 pada Proton kali ini hanya ada pada nama dan logo.

Pada pendapat anda, model mana yang menarik perhatian anda? Adakah ia berbaloi? Kongsikan dengan kami!

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Porsche Mission E Will Be Called Taycan

Porsche’s first-ever full electric sports car will be known as the Taycan. The model was previously called ‘Mission E’ when it was first unveiled as a concept model back in 2015.
The name Taycan is roughly translated as ‘lively young horse’, which references the heart of the Porsche crest featuring its iconic leaping steed since 1952. Oliver Blume, Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche AG said, “Our new electric sports car is strong and dependable; it’s a vehicle that can consistently cover long distances and that epitomizes freedom.”
To recap, the Porsche Taycan is a four-seater full-electric model with a range of well over 500 km on a single charge. This is credited to the Taycan’s new 800-Volt power system that doubles that of the regular 400-Volt system used by other electric vehicles.
Power comes from two permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSM), one on each axle. According to Porsche, the combined output of both motors is 600 hp, allowing the AWD Taycan to complete the century sprint in just 3.4 seconds.
Production of the Taycan is expected to commence in 2019.


Porsche Reveals Gorgeous New 911 Sport Classic For 2022

This is the newest version of the Porsche 911 Sport Classic, a retro-inspired version of Stuttgart’s most prolific sports car, this time based on the 992.

What is the Porsche 911 Sport Classic?

What makes this latest inductee to Porsche’s Heritage Design Collection different (and more interesting) isn’t so much about its styling, but its mechanicals. Also, this isn’t the first time the marque has rolled out such a car.

Back in 2009, they introduced one based on the revised version of the 997 (997.2). Like this 992-based version, it too featured a unique silver paint job (Sport Classic Grey) and ducktail spoiler reminiscent of the highly collectible 911 Carrera RS 2.7 from 1972.

On styling, the rest of the car quite closely resembles the 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition from 2020. Like that car, this 992 Turbo-based 911 Sport Classic is also part of a very limited production run.

Porsche is committing to making only 1,250 examples of it, which is actually more generous than the Targa 4S Heritage, which was limited to 992 units, and much more so than the original ’09 Sport Classic of which only 250 were produced. Still not quite as bountiful as the 1,948 units made of the
991-based 911 Speedster
, though.

Porsche 911 Sport Classic Exterior

The exterior of this 2022 car seen here is finished in Sport Grey Metallic that’s inspired by the Fashion Grey paint first seen on the Porsche 356 and features bespoke livery and hand-painted racing stripes. The numbered decals are buyer-customisable (1-99) and inside the panels and seats are done in two-tone Pepita houndstooth upholstery.

It’s all of it looks fabulous but buyers can also specify the car in Black (non-metallic), Agate Grey Metallic, or Gentian Blue Metallic - but why would you?

Porsche 911 Sport Classic Specifications

While that previous 2009 Sport Classic was based on a Carrera S whose 3.8-litre naturally aspirated flat-6 came with factory Power Kit upgrades to lift power to 410PS and 420Nm, this one takes the performance game much further.

This 992 Sport Classic is basically a 911 Turbo but without the usual easy-mode fallbacks such as permanent AWD and a quick-shifting PDK dual-clutch gearbox. Instead, like a car
from Porsche’s GT division
 (GT4,
GT3
, GT2 RS etc), this has a
7-speed manual
 and
rear-wheel drive
.

That means its 3.7-litre twin-turbo engine now has two fewer contact patches to contain its 550PS and 600Nm output, making it
the most powerful 911 with a manual currently available
. And with the way Porsche has been
leaning into EV tech
, it might keep that crown forever. Oddly, they do not go into further detail about its acceleration or top speed except to say that its stats are wedged between the 911 GTS and Turbo.

It does also borrow the wide-body layout and dimensions of
the current Turbo S
 to help deliver some added stability but doesn’t rehash the much-loved gloss black Fuchs alloys from the 997-gen Sport Classic. Instead, it wears a set of lightweight silver alloys with centre lock hubs that are described as a “modern re-interpretation”.

It also features a roof, rear ducktail spoiler, and front bonnet made of carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) and standard carbon ceramic brakes that help it shed 70kg over a standard 911 Turbo.

Also standard fit is sports suspension with a 10mm lower ride height in conjunction with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), rear-wheel steering, rev-matching for its 7-speed manual gearbox, the Sport Chrono Package, and a specially modified Sport Exhaust system.

Porsche 911 Sport Classic - Coming to Malaysia?

Given that, back in 2020, local Porsche distributors Sime Darby Auto Performance offered the 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition to Malaysian buyers just 2 months after it was announced Internationally, it might not be too long before this new 911 Sport Classic arrives on our shores.


Buy A Ford Ranger XLT Now And Get Five Years Of Free Maintenance

Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC) is now offering customers a zero maintenance cost deal for five years or 100,000km, plus cash rebates with every purchase of a Ford Ranger XLT.
Available until 31 December 2017, the deal applies to the Ford Ranger XLT which is powered by a choice of either a 2.2-liter Duratorq four-cylinder TDCi diesel engine with 160 PS and 385 Nm, or a 3.2-liter Duratorq five-cylinder TDCi diesel engine which pumps out 200 PS and 470 Nm.
Priced between RM115,088 and RM141,588 (otr without insurance), the Ranger XLT comes with Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control, Adaptive Load Control, Rollover Mitigation system, Electronic Power-Assisted Steering (EPAS), and 3,500kg of towing capability among others.


Koenigsegg Teases Us With Another Mega Car: The “Regera” Cometh

Okay, so, if you thought the Koenigsegg One:1 was the pinnacle of this Swedish brand, Christian von Koenigsegg certainly has different ideas.
*image above: One:1
The One:1 was mega impressive with its 1PS of power for every kilogram the car weighed (1,360PS, 1,360kg), but now, it seems like a replacement is in order, and it comes this March, at the Geneva Motor Show.
Very little is known of the Koenigsegg Regera, apart from the rumour mill suggestion that the added “Reg” to the beginning of the familiar “Agera” nameplate likely stands for some sort of “regenerative” methods applied: be it regenerative braking or so, making this a sort of hybrid-powered vehicle. Cause being, to more accurately face-off against the hybrid-powered McLaren P1, Porsche 918 and Ferrari La Ferrari?
Also, that Koenigsegg are calling this a “Megacar” after bestowing the same rank to its One:1 is likely a sign of the Regera boasting as much performance/ power as the previous.
Another model headed for its motor show debut will be the Koenigsegg Agera RS, something that was teased earlier this month.
More details come to the Geneva Motor Show, then.


BMW Art Cars Celebrate 40 Years Of Creative Expression

At the convergence of art and motorsport sits BMW’s Art Car Collection, a grouping of some of the most prolific racer’s to come out of Munich-based automaker that have been given free rein to be a canvas for artists. This year, the collection celebrates its fortieth birthday.
Wind back the clock four decades exactly, there came a man by the name of Hervé Poulain, a French racing driver and art enthusiast, and his
BMW
 3.0 CSL racer - the original, not the
CSL Hommage
. Mister Poulain asked his friend, artist Alexander Calder, to paint his car in whatever fashion he deemed appropriate. With then-BMW Motorsports Director Jochen Neerpasch, the car lined up for the Le Mans 24-hour race of ’75 – so was born the first BMW Art Car.
Since then, the crowd pleasing livery and nod cultural nod to art set the stage for various follow-up models to let other artists express themselves through the medium of a car’s body. Artists such as Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, David Hockney, Jeff Koons, and Sandro Chia have applied their creative touches to these cars over the years, and brought in between intervals that have no particular order.
“The BMW Art Cars provide an exciting landmark at the interface where cars, technology, design, art and motor sport meet,” reflects Maximilian Schöberl, Senior Vice President, Corporate and Governmental Affairs, BMW Group. “The 40-year history of our ‘rolling sculptures’ is as unique as the artists who created them. The BMW Art Cars are an essential element and core characteristic of our global cultural engagement.”
In celebration, BMW has set underway exhibitions to showcase these creations to a new audience. Hong Kong’s Centre Pompidou, the BMW Museum and the Concorso d’Eleganza at Lake Como, Italy, will display the first four BMW Art Cars by Alexander Calder, Frank Stella, Roy Lichtenstein and Andy Warhol, and more recently, the
M3
 GT2 by Jeff Koons.
In the latter stages of 2015, these Art Cars will be on show in New York, Miami, and Shanghai as well. Until then, feel free to browse the gallery of Art Cars below.


Toyota Flags-Off Gazoo Racing Festival and Vios Challenge One Make Series

UMW Toyota Motor, the authorised distributor of Toyota vehicles in Malaysia today launched the Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival and the Vios Challenge one-make racing series at the Sepang International Circuit.
While the TGR Racing Festival is a weeend-long carnival set to take place in Penang, Johor, and Kuala Lumpur between August and March 2018, the Vios Challenge is a one-make race featuring 30 Vios cars set to take place during the TGR Racing Festival.
According to UMWT, there will be four rounds of Vios Challenge races in the first season, in which all the cars were prepared by Toyota dealer Wing Hin Motorsports.
The model used in the race series is the 1.5-litre J M/T variant (2NR engine), fitted with racing parts like:
TRD bodykit
TRD exhaust system
TRD clutch and LSD
TRD suspensions
TRD brake pads
Roll cage
TRD tower bar and lower brace bars
Enkei RPF 1 rims
Toyo tires
Interestingly, anyone who holds a national racing license issued by AAM is eligible to take part in the race, and all they have to do is purchase the Vios Challenge race car (not road legal) for RM90,000. For the price, owners get the car, a set of FIA-approved racing suit, as well as six-sessions of racing school training for novice drivers.
It is said that with all the modifications, the car makes about 10 per cent more power than a standard Vios 1.5 J M/T.
In an effort to hype up the race series and to add excitement, eight local celebrities will be participating in the Vios Challenge, which is being held in Malaysia for the first time.
It is also worth mentioning that the Toyota Vios Challenge has been taking place in other countries in the region such as Thailand and the Philippines over the past few years.


Volvo 360c Teased, But What Is It?

Volvo recently teased a concept called the 360c via two videos on their Facebook page.
While details are scarce about the new model, Volvo did state that it is their vision for the future of travel. The short 13 second video was devoid of any audio, but manages to give us a glimpse at what appears to be a vehicle with the letters ‘360c at’ the end.
It is possible that Volvo is teasing an all-electric autonomous concept car, similar to the Mercedes-Benz F 015 concept, a fully-autonomous vehicle that does not need a human driver.
This ties in to the second part of Volvo’s teaser, which said, “Could time spent travelling become time well spent?” We can expect the 360c concept to feature a spacious interior where passengers can multitask while the car is in motion.


What Segment Does The 2021 Perodua Ativa Belong To?

It's a bit of a tricky question because of how it's designed, but let's clear it up.

Market segments can be a bit of a tricky thing to define. We know models belong to certain segments based on the fact that they are a certain size - for example, the Toyota Vios and Honda City are firmly B-segment models, but there are outliers like the
Nissan Almera
 that are especially large - yet remain priced and positioned in the B-segment.

In the case of the
Perodua Ativa
, the simple understanding is that it would be a crossover version of the Myvi, if the Myvi were based on the
DNGA platform
. That would mean it is a B-segment crossover or SUV, and at least Perodua agrees with this notion, although it's hard to justify this when the
Proton X50
 is a little larger (and also considered a B-segment model).

What this really comes back to is whether segments even matter, more than knowing what a model's price point and immediate rivals are. In certain other markets, D-segment models include cars like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C-Class, in addition to your Toyota Camry and Honda Accord that you usually associate with the term. This is part of the reason why prices have started to overlap between these models, much to the chagrin of Malaysian buyers.

If that's the case, then it may be worth broadening our purchasing options to look beyond a body type or a size restriction. Look for the best car you can get for your money and the one that best suits your needs in addition to your preferences. We say this because there's no reason you should shun an HR-V over a Civic if the space of the HR-V is what you need more.

That is unless you're my lovely colleague Jim Kem - who
hates SUVs and crossovers
 with a passion. But that's a discussion for another day.

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2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Facelift Launched In Malaysia, From RM327K

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) launches the facelift 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W213) Avantgarde E200 and E300 AMG Line, refreshed with a host of new exterior and interior designs.

2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Facelift At A Glance

Model

Mercedes-Benz Avantgarde E200

Mercedes-Benz E300 AMG Line

Displacement

1991cc

1991cc

Output (hp)

197

258

Torque (Nm)

320

370

Fuel Consumption

6.9-5.6 l/100km

6.9-5.6 l/100km

0-100 km/h

7.4s

6.2s

Top Speed

240km/h

250km/h

Recommended Retail Price OTR w/o Insurance

RM327k

RM375k

Exterior Mercedes-Benz E-Class 2021

The enhanced 2021 E-Class is immediately reflected in its exterior, where it sports a new slimmer grille as well as newly designed LED headlights that sport an L-shaped daytime running light (DRL) at the top of the cluster.

At the rear, two horizontal taillights extending to the middle of the tailgate replace the vertical ones seen on the
pre-facelift model
 at the end. There's also a new rear bumper that compliments the new taillights.

The AMG Line on the 2021 E300 features a new bumper in the style of the AMG Performance model and 19-inch AMG 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels. In addition, its Multibeam LED headlamps also now include an Ultra Range high beam.

Interior Mercedes-Benz E-Class 2021

The interior of the facelift 2021
E-Class
 also sports some new gear, starting with a new multifunction steering wheel in genuine leather. The steering wheel's control surfaces wear a high-gloss black finish, while the trim elements and surrounds have a light longitudinal-grain aluminium trim in the E200 Avantgarde and open-pore black ash wood trim on the 2021 E300 AMG Line.

The instrument cluster and the media display are controlled by swiping the Touch Control buttons. The operating principle of the Touch Control buttons changes from optical to capacitive. According to Mercedes, a mechanical system was no longer needed, and the touch surfaces also are less susceptible to fingerprints. Whether the driver has control of the steering wheel is now determined by capacitive touch.

The design of the front seat compliments and accentuates the sporty aura of the interior and comes with strong lateral support without compromising on comfort. The seat contour follows the pronounced side bolsters and, depending on the specification, the centre section has sporty transverse or modern longitudinal seams.

The colours of the centre sections of the seat backrest and cushion are matched to the overall sculpture of the seats. Numerous material combinations ranging from Artico man-made leather in the 2021 E200 Avantgarde Line to genuine leather in the E300 AMG Line is used.

Entertainment Mercedes-Benz E-Class 2021

As expected, the
 new E-Class
 is equipped with the latest generation of the MBUX multimedia system (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) displayed through the Widescreen Cockpit, consisting of two 12.3 inch displays. As a result, the information in the instrument cluster and on the media display is easy to see, especially when the screens are high resolution. Furthermore, a dynamic presentation with brilliant graphics underlines the comprehensibility of the intuitive control structure.

Safety Mercedes-Benz E-Class 2021

Part of the facelift E-Class includes the latest Mercedes-Benz assistance systems, providing driver support to its drivers. These assistance systems offer high levels of active safety: the E-Class will react if the driver doesn't.

The hands-off recognition now works on a capacitive basis. This enhances user-friendliness when driving in semi-automated mode. To inform the assistance systems that the driver still has control of the E-Class, a slight steering movement was previously required as feedback.

Speaking of the steering wheel, it now features a pad with the appropriate sensors in the rim itself. These register whether the driver is holding the wheel. If the system detects that the driver does not have their hands on the steering wheel for a certain amount of time, a warning cascade is started, which finally activates Emergency Brake Assist if the driver remains inactive.

As standard, the 2021 E200 and E300 come with Active Brake Assist, which can use autonomous braking to prevent a collision or mitigate its severity in many situations. The system can also brake for stationary vehicles and crossing pedestrians at typical city speeds and even to prevent crashes, depending on the situation. As part of the Driving Assistance Package, this is now also possible when turning off across the oncoming lane.

The 2021 E300 AMG Line has additional assistance in the form of Active Parking Assist with Parktronic and 360° camera. The system facilitates the search for and selection of a parking space and entering and leaving (if the vehicle was parked automatically) parallel and end-on parking spaces or garages. For the first time, an E-Class can recognise and park into spaces by itself. The 360° camera on the E300 transmits an even more realistic image to the media display, including an expanded side view. When leaving a parking space, the system can warn off traffic crossing behind the vehicle and apply the brakes in case of doubt.

The 2021 E300 AMG Line further comes with a Driving Assistance Package, Active Distance Assist Distronic, Active Steering Assist, Active Brake Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist and Pre-Safe® Plus.

Owners can also opt for Mercedes' Urban Guard, an intelligent interlinking of hardware and digital solutions that satisfies customer demand for security and property protection.

The Urban G Vehicle Protection package provides all-around monitoring. It comprises an anti-theft alarm system plus tow-away protection, which can detect changes in position. Movement in the vehicle interior also triggers visual and audible warnings. In addition, the driver will be notified of theft or parking damage detection through the Mercedes me app.

Price Mercedes-Benz E-Class 2021

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz Avantgarde E200 retails for RM327k while the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E300 AMG Line comes in at RM375k on-the-road without insurance.

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

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Carlist.my.

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CarlistBid.my
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Get the latest new car promotions at
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 website now.


XC40 To Feature Volvo’s First 3-Cylinder Engine

Volvo Cars today launched its new three-cylinder Drive-E petrol engine that will make its debut in the XC40 compact SUV. The new engine will be identified with a 'T3' emblem.
The all-new 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, a first in the company’s 91-year history, was developed in-house using the same modular design as Volvo’s four-cylinder Drive-E engines. This new compact engine will also be made at the
same production lines
 as the four-cylinder engines.
Additionally, the new three-cylinder powertrain has been designed for integration into Twin Engine plug-in hybrid models is expected to be offered later.
A pure electric (EV) will join the XC40 range in near future, making use of its compact dimension and target user profile of young urbanites.
“Our new three-cylinder engine is an exciting development for the XC40 and for Volvo Cars in general,” said Alexander said Alexander Petrofski, senior director cluster 40 at Volvo Cars. “This compact engine design provides the flexibility we need as we introduce more powertrain options for XC40 customers.”
Currently, the T3 can only be paired to a 6-speed manual transmission, with the 8-speed automatic transmission to be available next year. In this configuration, the engine outputs 156 hp and 265 Nm of torque, which is much higher than the three-cylinder engines from BMW and similar power to 1.6-litre four cylinder engines from Mercedes-Benz.
The XC40 T3 offers strong straight-line performance, accelerating it from rest to 100 km/h in just 7.8 seconds. Fuel consumption details have not been officially released, but expect it to be in the high six-litres per 100 kilometer range.
In Sweden, the new T3 joins a range of petrol engines, with the T4 offering 190 hp and T5 AWD with 247 hp. Customers who prefer diesel performance can opt for the D3 with 150 hp and D4 with 190 hp.
Closer to home, the XC40 is expect to make its debut later this year. Earlier this year, the
XC40 made its ASEAN debut
 at the Singapore Motor Show 2018.


Hyundai IONIQ 5 Revealed - High End EV Tech Comes Down To Earth

Hyundai has taken the wraps off their
first new model
under their IONIQ sub-brand. Simply, called the 5, this slightly high-riding hatchback (or is it a crossover too?) seeks to be the gold standard of a new breed of ‘sweet spot’ EVs.

Though we’re quite accustomed to seeing high-end electric cars take the form of much larger, sleeker-looking vehicles, Hyundai’s approach resembles that of Volkswagen or Polestar much more than Tesla or Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, or Audi.

Prior to yesterday’s unveiling, the IONIQ 5 hasn’t exactly been the industry’s most closely guarded secret. Hyundai had previously brought the retro-futuristically styled 45 EV Concept to the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show, which quickly got rumours swirling about it eventually becoming a full production model under a new and mysterious division, and underpinned by
their all-new EV platform
.

Through E-GMP (Electric-Global Modular Platform) and the new IONIQ brand, Hyundai plans to consolidate its various electric vehicles and electrification efforts, which might even include the few Kia models running around as well such as the
Niro EV
 and Soul EV, while bringing high-end technologies to bear on more mass-market models.

The IONIQ 5 straddles the line that divides the upper echelons of electric vehicles with that of the everyday car owner: a bridge between the
Nissan Leaf
 and a
Tesla Model S
, let’s say. Therefore, the car brings features such as an 800V electrical architecture that opens it up to very fast charging (up to 220kW DC, according to Hyundai). This enables the car to gain 100km of range in as little as 5 minutes while a 10% to 80% charge can be achieved in just 18 minutes.

Previously, this level of fast charging support was only available in the
Porsche Taycan
 and will only soon be reaching customers of its sister car, the
Audi e-tron GT
. With its wheels pushed as far out to the corners as possible for an expansive 3,000mm wheelbase, the IONIQ 5 leaves as much area in between for batteries and interior space.

Speaking of those, Hyundai will be providing two battery options for the car: the Standard Range with 58kWh and Long Range with 72.6kWh. At each tier, the IONIQ 5 can be specified with either a rear-only single motor or dual-motor system for all-wheel drive.

Pairing the AWD motor with the larger Long Range battery yields the most performance with a 300hp system output and a fat 605Nm of instant torque for a 0-100km/h dash of just 5.2 seconds. However, equally predictable is the mating of the single-rear drive motor with the Long Range battery. This configuration allows the IONIQ 5 to reach that headline-grabbing claimed range of 480km on a single charge.

The car can also be optioned with a photovoltaic roof that Hyundai terms as an “eco-friend solar roof”. You’d presumably lose the panoramic sunroof, of course, but no mention is made of contributing much charge to the system to, for example, run the air conditioning system or infotainment independently, but the panel can help top up the battery during longer periods of idle to prevent discharge.

Also quite unique to the IONIQ 5, though it most likely will crop up in other E-GMP-based EVs, is the vehicle-to-grid or vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality with a max output of 3.6kW. Not only would this allow the car to act as a mini generator for other electronics and even high power equipment, but it could also feed the stored charge in its batteries back into the grid when its plugged in at home, provided compatible infrastructure. This is especially useful for regions where electricity rates vary depending on the time of day, potentially saving customers a good chunk of change.

The interior is sedate and quite clinical with its white and grey tones but is livened up with accent points that have integrated ambient lighting, selectable by the driver. Elsewhere, the dashboard is dominated by dual 12-inch displays to function as infotainment and instrument cluster a’la
Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX
.

Its floor is completely flat, as you’d expect with an EV, and Hyundai has tailored the cabin to be as adaptable as possible with highly reclinable front seats and a sliding centre console. There’s also an augmented reality head-up display and a more advanced version of Hyundai’s Bluelink connected car system for tighter integration and control via smartphone.

Surrounding all this tech is an interior space that manages to keep its premium feel while being ecologically conscious with copious use of sustainable materials including recycled plastic bottles to fashion to soft touch surfaces and the headliner, while wool and ‘eco-processed’ leather made with plant-based extracts are used for the seats.

All told, the IONIQ 5 is an extremely impressive showing from Hyundai, and in a single swoop potentially positions them in a front-running position to capture a significant share of the eventual mass adoption of electric vehicles by bringing high-end EV tech to a much wider customer base.

Prices have yet to be announced, but it’s expected to not be too far off other semi-premium EVs such as the Tesla Model 3,
Volkswagen ID.3
, and
Polestar 2
, potentially undercutting them all at the lower end of the range.


Ready to build your own Ferrari?

Ferrari fans will be thrilled to know that they can own themselves a unit of the Italian sports car from a price range of RM9.90 and RM13.90. We're actually talking about the newly launched Shell V-Power Lego Collection that is available nationwide from November 1 onwards.
Each model will be rolling out in different weeks. The collection includes the iconic Ferrari F138, 250 GTO, F12 Berlinetta, 512 S and the Fiorano Scuderia station as well as a Ferrari Podium set which comes with a mini figure. Shell will also be releasing its very own limited edition Lego fuel tanker in mid-December, the last model of the collection.
"We are excited that through the Shell V-Power Lego Collection , we can bring people together - motorists, race fans, toy enthusiasts, children and adults alike - making Shell a happy pit stop for all. We believe that the simple act of building can be more meaningful and fun if shared with others. Our hope is for our customers to not simply build the Shell V-Power Lego Collection but form closer bonds in the process," said Shell Malaysia Trading Sdn Bhd and Shell Timur Sdn Bhd managing director Tuan Haji Azman Ismail.
Shell customers can purchase the miniature models at its promotional price with a minimum spend of RM40 of Shell V-Power or Shell FuelSave or 4-litre of Shell Helix HX5 and HX7 Motor oil.


The Volkswagen Sales Carnival Is Happening This Weekend At Setia City Mall

In conjunction with Volkswagen Malaysia’s Raya promotion, members of the public are cordially invited to the Volkswagen Sales Carnival Weekend Taking place at The Oval, Setia City Mall from 12
th
 to 14
th
 June 2015, 10am to 10pm.
At the carnival, you can learn more about
Volkswagen
 models, win gifts, enjoy the attractive promotions, and many more. Come experience the finest in German-engineering and balik kampung in a Volkswagen this Raya.
The Volkswagen Raya promotion makes owning a brand new Volkswagen more accessible with a special zero downpayment and 0% interest (for up to seven years) deal for their six top models: the
Polo
, Polo Sedan,
Jetta
,
Golf
,
Passat
, and
Tiguan
 (subject to terms and conditions).
With this promo, customers can enjoy up to RM48,000 savings with monthly instalments and savings as listed below:
Polo
Savings up to RM22,000
5 years – RM 1,399/month
7 years – RM999/month
Polo Sedan
Savings up to RM23,000
5 years – RM 1,399/month
7 years – RM999/month
Jetta
Savings up to RM34,000
5 years – RM 2,099/month
7 years – RM1,499/month
Golf
Savings up to RM42,000.
5 years – RM 2,499/month
7 years – RM1,799/month
Passat
Savings up to RM44,000
5 years – RM 2,699/month
7 years – RM 1,899/month
Tiguan
Savings up to RM48,000
5 years – RM 2,899/month
7 years – RM 2,099/month


Special Promotion For Ford Focus From As Low As RM668 Per Month

Ford Malaysia today announced that it is having a special promotion for the
Ford Focus
where the monthly instalment starts from as low as RM668 per month. According to the company, buyers can also opt for a RM15,000 cash rebate.
The Ford Focus is offered here in three trim levels:
Focus Trend (5 door): RM118,888
Focus Sport+ (5 door): RM139,888
Focus Titanium+ (4 door): RM139,888
*Prices indicated are OTR without insurance
Available in six different stylish colours -- Frozen White, Panther Black, Ingot Silver, Candy Red, Magnetic and Winning Blue, the car is powered by a 1.5L EcoBoost engine which produces 180 PS and 240 Nm of maximum torque.
While standard features include:
Keyless entry Push-button Start
Six airbags
Dual-zone climate control
Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)
Electronic Power-assisted Steering (EPAS)
Torque Vectoring Control
Hill Launch Assist
Six-speed SelectShift with paddle shifters
The Focus also comes with an array of safety features like:
Blind Spot Information System (BLIS)
Cross-Traffic Alert
Active Park Assist
Perpendicular Park Assist
Park Out Assist
Active City Stop System
Enhanced Transitional Stability
Ford MyKey
The car also comes with the all new SYNC 3 infotainment system which allows voice commands to make calls, play music, and have text messages read aloud, while driving. The system currently supports both Android Auto  and Apple CarPlay.


The Royal Malaysian Police's Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X

Every police force in the world has its own fleet of vehicles that it uses for patrol duty and to pursue the bad guys. However, there are a select few that managed to include some interesting and exotic cars as part of its vehicle fleet.

Don’t believe us? Well, just check out some of them here:

Australia’s New South Wales Police Get A McLaren And Aston Martin

Australian Police Force Adds 450HP Audi RS 4 Avant

Abu Dhabi Police Takes Delivery Of RM12.5 Million Lykan HyperSport

Dubai Police Gets A BMW i8 To Fight Crime And Carbon Emissions At The Same Time

Dubai Police Force Adds 1,200hp Bugatti Veyron To Hypercar Fleet

LAPD Gains A Tesla Model S And BMW i3 To Fight Crime And Save The Earth At The Same Time

However, what about something a little closer to home? Surely there’s a vehicle in our Royal Malaysian Police’s (or Polis Diraja Malaysia, PDRM) arsenal that can give us the thrills too?

There is and as we are celebrating Malaysia Day today (16 September), let’s take a look back at the
Mitsubishi
 Lancer Evolution X, which is part of the PDRM vehicle fleet.

25 units of the
Mitsubishi Lancer
 Evolution X were delivered to the PDRM on December 2008 and they were known as Helang Lebuhraya Polis or Police Highway Eagle. The vehicles would be used for highway pursuits, patrol duties, or VIP escort. The cars are also to be used in high-speed car chases, especially in cases of carjacking, kidnapping, and hijacking, making it that much more exciting.

With criminals using modified turbocharged cars to escape according to PDRM, the Evo X serves as the perfect pursuit vehicle, enabling them to catch up with said criminals.

Under the hood is a 4B11 2.0-litre MIVEC twin scroll turbocharged engine developing 291hp and 366Nm of torque, paired to five-speed
manual
 gearbox, sending power to all four wheels via an all-wheel drive system. Mitsubishi’s advanced S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control) vehicle dynamics controller is also present for good measure.

For police work, the “standard” Evo X is fitted with a Motorola XTL 5000 police radio with C4i system, sirens and lights, and a weapons compartment where the big guns are stored. The drivers behind the Helangs are trained for three weeks on how the handle the high-powered car best.

Sadly, we said goodbye to the
Mitsubishi Lancer
 Evolution X with a
final Japan-only edition back in April
 but it is always a treat to see one in the metal, much less our very own police version.

So there you go, a Malaysian police vehicle that we all can be proud of, wouldn’t you say?


All-New 2018 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Bares Interior; More Space, More Luxury

The
next-generation A-Class
 is nearing its debut, and Mercedes-Benz is teasing the arrival of its
next-generation compact hatch
 by releasing official images of the new car’s fully redesigned dashboard and centre console.
From the pictures, we see a cabin upgraded to include the latest Mercedes-Benz switchgear – some trickled down from the new
E-
 and
S-Class
, others seeming entirely new.
For starters, we see the new multifunction steering from the
recently-facelifted S-Class
 as well as Merc’s new-generation Comand touchpad interface that also debuted with the flagship. The turbine-shaped air-con vents from the
E-Class Coupe
 are present as well.
The dual LCD widescreen cockpit first seen in the E-Class similarly makes the downward migration, but it is offered standard in the A-Class and presented in a free-standing design with no overarching cowls – we hope Mercedes angled the screen really properly to minimize mid-day glare. Consumers do get to specify the sizes of the cockpit’s two screens though – both 7 inches, both 10.25 inches, or one of each.
In an effort to reduce dashboard clutter, air-con displays are integrated into the centre screen, although physical rocker switches are still provided.
Addressing criticisms that the
current W176 A-Class’
 interior lacks the space-efficient nature of its predecessors, the next-generation model’s cabin is claimed to offer increased dimensions as well as features trickled down from the company’s higher range products.
Indeed, all key measurements provided by Mercedes points to significantly increased interior real estate. Front passengers get an additional 9 mm of shoulder room, 35 mm more elbow room, and 7 mm extra headroom.
For rear passengers, the same measurements increase by 22 mm, 36 mm, and 8 mm respectively. They also benefit from improved access through re-shaped door apertures.
Boot space is measured at 370 litres – 29 more than the preceding model. Further more, the loading aperture is widened by 200 mm whilst the luggage compartment floor is now 115 mm longer.
All-round visibility, another weak area of the current A-Class, is said to be improved by 10 percent, although quite how Mercedes justifies this, we don’t currently have an idea.
Whilst it had its critics, the W176 A-Class was a huge success for Mercedes-Benz – it not only lowered the average age of a Mercedes owner, but it also served to conquest many new customers into the brand as well.
The all-new 2018 A-Class will be the first of a
new compact model family
 from Mercedes-Benz that will span eight models in the future.
A sedan variant
 is already confirmed, whilst the
Concept EQA
 previews an electrified member of the family in the future.


Tokyo 2017: Daihatsu DN Trec Concept – The Next Perodua SUV?

Daihatsu enters this year’s 2017 Tokyo Motorshow with a line-up of concept vehicles that envision the future developments of the company, based on its
Monodukuri
 technologies for creating high-quality vehicles at reasonable prices – one such highlight is the DN Trec SUV concept.
Designed as a compact, stylish SUV suitable for both daily use and those with active lifestyles – the DN Trec does draw significant parallels to the 5-seater variants of the discontinued Terios models, which was marketed in Malaysia as the Perodua Nautica.
The DN Trec measures 3,980 mm in length, 1,695 mm in width and 1,600 mm in height – which is in the ballpark of the Daihatsu Terios/ Perodua Nautica which measures 4115 mm in length, 1695 mm in width and 1740 mm. The concept is likewise designed to seat five.
The DN Trec features a 1,200 cc hybrid powertrain, with the option of a 1,000 cc turbo, similar to that of the
DN Compagno
 four-door coupe concept vehicle.
Daihatsu claims The DN Trec boasts a high-quality, compact interior and which embody the themes of “active, fun and tough”.
Daihatsu also confirmed that moving forward, the company aims to develop even higher-quality vehicles at more affordable prices based on the "realization of its Daihatsu New Global Architecture ( DNGA ) which mirrors the global platform concept of its parent company Toyota's TNGA.


Fully Electric Cars To Contribute 50% Of Sales By 2025- Volvo Cars

Volvo Cars aims for fully electric cars to make up 50 percent of its sales by 2025. This announcement is built on the earlier commitment that the company aims to offer only either models with hybrid or EVs from 2019.
The company’s strategy to generate half of its sales from electric cars by 2025 positions it as a powerful player in China, the world’s leading market for electrified cars.
The Chinese government plans to have new-energy vehicles account for more than 20 percent of the country’s annual car sales by 2025, which equates to more than seven million vehicles, based on Chinese government forecasts.
Håkan Samuelsson, President and CEO of Volvo Cars said, “Last year we made a commitment to electrification in preparation for an era beyond the internal combustion engine,”
“Today we reinforce and expand that commitment in the world’s leading market for electrified cars. China’s electric future is Volvo Cars’ electric future.”
China is Volvo Cars’ largest individual market and this year delivered a 23.3 percent first quarter sales increase, contributing to the company’s first-quarter global sales growth of 14 percent. Volvo car sales in China last year passed 100,000 units for the first time.
At the ongoing Beijing Auto Show 2018, Volvo Cars reinforce the company’s position as an industry leader in electrification with all models on display being plug-in hybrid models. The event marks the first time the company displayed only plug-in hybrid vehicles at an auto show.
Beijing also marks the first public appearance of the XC40 Twin Engine, the plug-in hybrid variant that features the
company’s first 3-cylinder 1.5-litre engine
 with electric propulsion. The new XC40 was recently crowned 2018 European Car of the Year and has already amassed more than 60,000 orders globally since its launch in late 2017.


Kia Unveils Facelifted Sportage – First Hybrid Drivetrain, Global Sales Start Q3 2018

Kia has unveiled the facelifted 2018 Kia Sportage, the brand’s global best-selling vehicle. The new model introduces upgraded powertrains, the first mild-hybrid drivetrain, a refreshed exterior and interior design, as well as new safety and infotainment technologies.
Among the major upgrades is the 2.0-liter diesel engine, which is now available with Kia’s new eight-speed automatic transmission, which is available in certain markets with a 48-volt mild-hybrid drivetrain. The 48V diesel mild-hybrid unit is the first to be launched as part of Kia’s global powertrain electrification strategy.
The 2.0-liter ‘R’ diesel engine is aided by a Mild-Hybrid Starter-Generator (MHSG) unit. The MHSG is connected by a belt to the engine’s crankshaft, and switches between ‘motor’ and ‘generator’ modes. Power is stored in a compact 0.44 kWh 48-volt lithium-ion battery. The 48-volt battery is located beneath the trunk floor, minimizing the impact on practicality.
In ‘motor’ mode the battery is discharged under acceleration, providing up to 12 kW of electric power assistance to the engine, and reverts to ‘generator’ mode during braking, or coasting.
The battery and MHSG also support a new ‘Moving Stop & Start’ function which allows for the engine to be turned off (If the battery has sufficient charge) during deceleration or braking and reigniting the engine when the driver presses the accelerator.
Both the 2.0-litre diesel and mild-hybrid diesel variants are offered with Kia’s new eight-speed automatic transmission.
 A quick teaser of the facelifted Kia Sportage
The Sportage also introduces an all-new 1.6-litre engine which replaces the Sportage’s existing 1.7-liter CRDi (sold in Europe) and adopts a new fuel injection system and revised valvetrain. The engine’s cylinder heads have been reshaped to create a ‘bowl’ shaped combustion chamber for a more equal distribution and even houses a new turbocharger system which is claimed to aid exhaust gas recirculation.
Elsewhere, the crankshaft and pistons components have been redesigned to reduce mechanical friction. The new engine is also 18 kgs lighter than the predecessor and is offered in two states of tune, 115 PS, and 136 PS; torque numbers have yet to be revealed.
The 115 PS engine is offered only a six-speed manual driving the front wheels; the 136 PS variant gets the manual, 2WD option and a dual-clutch seven-speed automatic and AWD.
Aesthetically, the new Sportage features new front and rear bumpers, as well as redesigned front and rear lamps. New alloy wheel designs are available, ranging from 16- to 19-inch depending on the market, and optional accessories include chrome sill trim and metallic skid plates. A range of new external colours are also on offer.
The SX and GT Line models are equipped with a gloss black hot-stamped radiator grille, a gloss black and silver skid plate, and dark chrome inserts on the side sills and rear tailgate. All models are fitted with a dual exhaust rear valance and revised ‘ice cube’ LED fog lamps.
On the inside, the new Sportage is equipped with a new steering wheel design and revised driver instrument cluster, while the cabin is available with new upholstery designs. SX and GT Line models are available with new two-tone fabric and leather seats as standard, or with optional two-tone leather seats, with colors varying by market.
The ventilation and air conditioning controls at the centre of the dashboard has also been revised with new bezels for a premium touch.
The facelifted Sportage will adopt Kia’s latest advanced driving assistance systems, including Smart Cruise Control with Stop&Go, Surround View Monitor, and Driver Attention Warning depending on the market.
In terms of connectivity, the Sportage features Kia’s two new infotainment systems: a 7.0-inch touchscreen, and a new ‘frameless’ 8.0-inch infotainment system.
Global sales of the upgraded 2018 Kia Sportage are set to commence during Q3 of 2018.


2015 Mazda 3 CKD Launch Confirmed For April 8th As Bermaz Announce Post-GST Prices

In revealing the company’s latest price list, Bermaz Motor Sdn Bhd also took the opportunity to sneak in what we figure is pretty much the official launch date of the new, 2015
Mazda

3
 CKD.
We’ve been
following the coming CKD Mazda 3’s arrival
 for quite some time now, and despite previous speculations pointing only to a mid-April date, we can now pin it down to the 8
th
, which is next Wednesday!
Unfortunately, prices still haven’t been revealed yet, but
going off our last scoop
, we’ve been assured of a few estimates, and as of the last official update from Bermaz (Mar 17), they are:
Mazda 3 SkyActiv CKD Sedan Mid: RM 105,000
Mazda 3 SkyActiv CKD Hatchback Mid+: RM 119,000
Mazda 3 SkyActiv CKD Sedan High: RM 125,000
*UPDATE:
Since we published this article, Bermaz has provided a full list of their official prices, which we have also attached below. Be mindful that the Mazda 3 1.6-litre that you see listed is for the previous-generation model, and not the latest SkyActiv version.
With this, Bermaz Motor hasn’t really revealed the full scale of their new price list post-GST implementation, but we understand that not all models have seen prices differences. What they have disclosed for now are just a few of their models which have been affected, and these have been showed as below, with price reductions between RM500 to RM7,000 (
update after receiving full price list: RM23 to RM10,000
). For the models that we don't see here, it's probably safe to assume that their prices haven't changed.
However, don’t forget that Bermaz is far from done here. As reported before, we’ve expecting to see a total of three model launches from the official Mazda distributor this month alone (CX-5 facelift, Mazda 6 facelift and the Mazda CX-3). Bring it on!
UPDATE: Full list of Mazda vehicle prices in Malaysia: (click to view larger)


Formula One Petronas Malaysian GP 2016 Returns To Sepang

The 2016 Formula One Petronas Malaysia GP takes place between 30th September and 2nd October 2016 as the 16th round of the Formula One (F1) race calendar.
The Sepang GP happens two weeks after the Singapore F1 GP night race - round 16 of a total 21 races this year. The 18th installment of the “world’s hottest race” promises fiery racing action, a salvo of support races and crowd-pulling international performances.
Support Races
Sepang will host the 8th and 9th rounds of the global GP3 and GP2 feeder series respectively during the F1 weekend. Malaysians Nabil Jefri in GP2 series and Akash Neil Nandy from GP3, will be vying for top spots on home turf come October.
This is also the first year the Formula One Petronas Malaysia GP and the Shell Malaysian Motorcycle GP are held within the span of a month. Other touring and GT car support races are reportedly in the pipeline.
Crowd Attractions
There will be fan based attractions such as the Drivers' Autograph Session, Malaysian School Pit Lane Walk, and Drivers Fan Forum. ‘XTrack’ will host demonstrations such as drifting, rallying, go-karting and All-Terrain Vehicles (ATV) rides. The Mall Area of the circuit, meanwhile, will host a supercar display, merchandise outlets and a game zone for fans.
New for 2016, is the Formula One Tour – after the conclusion of the Singapore GP, the Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 car will be transported by land to the Sepang F1 Circuit. Along the tour, the team will make pit-stops in Johor, Melaka, Seremban and Kuala Lumpur where fans can get up close with the cars and team.
Experiences and Performances
SIC will organise a series of special contests on Facebook and Instagram that offers fans exclusive opportunities to engage with Formula One drivers - exclusive Pit Tour and Meet-and-Greet sessions for winning participants.
International recording artist, Usher, will be headlining the post-race concert. The Star Stand provides the best view for the race and post-race concert.
Tickets
The 2016 Formula One Petronas Malaysia GP ticket prices are as follows:
C2 Hillstand: RM169.60
Star Stand: RM183.38
Grandstand F: RM296.80
Tower: RM466.40
Grandstand K1: RM699.60
Main Grandstand: RM360.40 to RM1,876.20
VIP Team Tribune Pass: RM2,459.20
Child tickets (aged 7 to 12) and disabled: Tickets at 50% off


Toyota Sienta Earns 5-Star ASEAN NCAP Rating

When UMW Toyota Malaysia Motor Sdn Bhd
launched the Sienta MPV
 earlier this year, the company announced that the vehicle was designed with safety in mind, and also to achieve high ASEAN NCAP safety ratings.
And true enough, the MPV has just received a 5-star rating. Being Toyota’s fourth MPV model tested by ASEAN NCAP after
Avanza
, Innova and Calya (sold only in Indonesia), the seven-seater MPV performed very well in the Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) with 15.26 points.
Based on ASEAN NCAP 5-Star prerequisite, only variants equipped with Electronic Stability Control (ESC) received 5-Star rating while variants that are without are rated as 4-Star AOP.
Meanwhile, in the Child Occupant Protection (COP) category, the Sienta achieved 74 percent compliance which makes it earned a 4-Star rating.
In Malaysia, the Sienta is equipped with standard 3 airbags, Seatbelt Reminder System (SBR) for its frontal occupants and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). VSC (ESC as Toyota calls it), ISOFIX and top tether are also available as standard across all variants.
Produced and fully-imported (CBU) from Toyota's Karawang Barat manufacturing plant in Indonesia, the Sienta is available here in two variants (Sienta 1.5V and Sienta 1.5G), priced at RM92,900 and RM99,900 respectively.


Soul Is Kia’s Most Popular Export Model

The box-like shaped Kia Soul has just overtaken the Kia Rio as Kia’s most popular export model, reports Korea Herald, citing industry data.
reports Korea Herald.
In the first 10 months of 2015, Kia Motors sold 177,457 units of the Soul. In comparison, the company sold 176,979 units of the Kia Rio over the same period last year.
High demand from American consumers was responsible for the Soul’s popularity, buying over 70 percent of all Soul models sold worldwide. Between January to October 2015, a total of 124,929 units of the Soul were sold in the US.
We wonder how much of the Soul’s success was due to Kia Motors America’s very successful ‘Party Rock Anthem’ TV commercial, aired in 2012.
Globally, the Soul is available with three engine options – a U2 1.6-litre CRDi turbo diesel, Gamma 1.6-litre MPI petrol, and Nu 2.0-litre MPI petrol. The engines are paired to either a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic, 6-speed torque converter automatic or a 6-speed manual.
Many years ago, the Naza Kia Malaysia had considered the Soul for the Malaysian market. A heavily tinted (it was a left-hand drive model) display car was also exhibited at several road shows but the model was eventually dropped from the company’s plans as market research showed that Malaysian consumers are not ready for boxy looking cars yet.
Fast forward to 2015, what do you think? Are you interested in a box shaped car like the Soul?


Kyushu Earthquake – Toyota, Honda, Mitsubishi Halt Production

Last Thursday’s earthquake that hit Japan’s Kyushu island will have implications on Japan’s auto sector, as the quake has affected several plants that are crucial to Japan’s automotive industry’s supply chain.
Renesas Electronics, which supplies electronic control modules many car manufacturers, has suspended production at its Kumamoto plant – the area most affected by the quake. At this moment, it is unclear when the plant will resume operations.
Toyota has also announced that it will suspend production on its domestic plants in stages between today and 23 April.
“Decisions regarding recommencement of operation at plants in Japan will be made on the basis of availability of parts.
“We will continue to make all possible efforts to offer support to the residents of Kyushu, and hope for the soonest possible recovery of the affected areas,” said Toyota.
Toyota relies heavily on parts manufacturer Aisin Seiki, which has a plant in Kumamoto, to produce engine and transmission components, as well as doors.
Mitsubishi Motors is also reportedly shutting down its Okayama plant in stages, also due to disruption in its parts supply chain.
Honda also has a motorcycle and general purpose engine plant in Kumamoto. The plant has since been shutdown. “A decision to commence operations on April 18 or later will be made based on factors including the state of the facility,” said Honda.


Ford’s Driving Skills for Life Programme Is Coming To Sabah

Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC), the sole distributor for Ford in Malaysia, has announced that for the first time this November, Ford’s global Driving Skills for Life (DSFL) programme will be heading to Sabah.

Conducted free-of-charge, the DSFL workshop aims to teach drivers the necessary skills on safe driving practices beyond what is taught in standard driver education programmes.

Conducted through a mix of classroom and practical training workshops with trained driving instructors, the half-day two-part workshop consists of a theory course which will be held at the Ford Kota Kinabalu showroom, and a practical driving course will be conducted at Stadium Likas.

Open to all Malaysian licensed drivers, each half-day session caters up to 30 participants and will feature Ford Ranger-based models to teach drivers safe driving practices when driving a pickup truck.

Those interested in attending are encouraged to register their interest in-person at the Ford Kota Kinabalu showroom to secure their spot as seats are limited or call 088-425 355 for more information. Below are the available sessions:

For more information about the Ford DSFL programme in Malaysia, click
here
.

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


Mitsubishi Announces CarPlay, Android Auto Compatibility

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are features that more and more manufacturers are opting to bake in with their newest models.
Mitsubishi
 Motors Corp has joined that club, and in doing so joins
Hyundai
 and
Chevrolet
 among other
early

adopters
.
With plans to debut the infotainment solution this summer in an SUV in Europe, Mitsubishi will roll out the technology in a wider range of models and markets as reported by
Automotive News
. The smartphone connectivity systems will allow the car to show a projected car-specific interface on its central display.
Mitsubishi revealed that the 2016
Pajero
 will be the first to carry it, but while the range and markets was expected to grow, a company spokesperson that Autonews.com spoke to declined to reveal a specific timeline.
The Japanese automaker dubs their in-car system Smartphone Link Display Audio system (SDA) that will have compatibility for both Apple’s CarPlay or Google’s Android Auto, and will run either interface depending on which make of smartphone is plugged in.
By offering the latest technologies, Autonews.com expressed Mitsubishi’s aim to heighten its brand image above that of a budget brand, correlating with their efforts to become a leader in electrified plug-in hybrid drivetrains.
CarPlay, for example, is offered on two Ferrari models, with Volvo and Mercedes-Benz on course to offer it in their cars soon. Other manufacturers are expected to follow suit.


Telsa Model Y is apparently the best-selling car in the world (Q1 2023)

Tesla's Model Y becomes the first EV to top vehicle global sales number. Knocks Toyota's Corolla off the top spot.

For many many years now, Toyota has come out on top when it comes to the most cars sold by an auto manufacturer.
Its Corolla has been the global sales king
, as it's pretty much known everywhere and loved by many.

Well, the Corolla has just been knocked off its perch. So who's taken over the top spot? Of course, it's no other than a vehicle made by Tesla.

According to JATO data for 53 markets worldwide, the Tesla Model Y was the world's best-selling car in the first quarter of this year. Recent price cuts and global expansion of the brand have helped it become a sales phenomenon said Motor1.

Not only has the Model Y altered the top 5 spots in which Toyotas usually dominate, but it's also the first electric vehicle to reach the number one position, making history along its way.

"Data collected for the first quarter shows the Tesla Model Y in the lead with 267,200 units sold. The Corolla, which has been one of the most popular cars in the world for years, recorded downward-trending sales of 256,400 units."

Despite the Corolla being a global sales product, it seems that Tesla's Model Y has momentum behind it. Of course, Toyota probably won't be sweating as the
other cars making the top 5 are theirs
, but still, this is a clear sign that EVs are on the rise and that SUVs are the current favoured body shape.


Volkswagen Marketplace - Passat for RM135k, Limited To 20 Units

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has launched
Volkswagen Marketplace
, the first-of-its-kind e-platform where customers can reserve a Volkswagen vehicle and enjoy exclusive online offers.
To commemorate the launch of the online platform, VPCM is offering exclusive deals on 20 units of the Passat 1.8 TSI Trendline Cyber models.
The Trendline Cyber variant is offered at an online-only price of RM135,888, making it substantially cheaper than the default entry point of the Passat range, the Passat Comfortline, which is priced at RM169,488 (at 0% GST). Do note that the current batch of 20 units offered are 2017 production year vehicles.
The Trendline Cyber variant is also offered with a 5-year free maintenance and 1-year free insurance plan. Customers will also enjoy a low-interest rate of 0.88 percent per annum on the Passat 1.8 TSI Trendline Cyber models.
The Trendline Cyber variant is similar in specification to the
Trendline Plus variant
 VPCM introduced last year; which replaced the base (Trendline) model’s fabric upholstery with leather and upsized its wheels from 16 to 17 inches, wrapped with 215/55 series tyres.
However, the Trendline Cyber is still cheaper than the Trendline Plus, which was previously priced at RM144,990.
Under the hood is a 1.8-litre turbocharged engine that develops 180PS and torque of 250Nm between 1,250 rpm and 5,000 rpm. The engine is coupled to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Four colours are available – Pure White, Deep Black, Indium Grey and Reflex Silver.
There are five simple steps to follow when trying to book a vehicle on Volkswagen Marketplace:
Step 1: Select Volkswagen model.
Step 2: Select the preferred dealership.
Step 3: Enter customer details to continue with the reservation.
Step 4: Finalise reservation by submitting a fee of RM1,500 (via credit card only)
Step 5: The selected dealer will guide and assist the customer throughout the purchase process, car registration up till the car delivery/collection.
Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM added, “The idea of creating an e-platform such as Volkswagen Marketplace had been in the pipeline for some time, and the recent success of VPCM’s partnership with Lazada further spurred the idea. “The rise of e-commerce has changed the way people shop, and selling 12 Beetles on Lazada in just 20 minutes confirmed our belief that Malaysians are ready and receptive to buying cars online. This as an important development for the brand and we are very excited to be able to bring Volkswagen Marketplace to Malaysia."


Ferrari 296 GTB Launched In Malaysia - 830PS Supercar-PHEV

Naza Italia has unwrapped the all-new Ferrari 296 GTB for its official Malaysian debut, unveiling the Italian marque’s newest mid-engine Berlinetta and its first road-going six-cylinder powered model since 1974.

Despite its layout and dimensions, the car is not a direct replacement
for the F8 Tributo
 (at least not yet) but rather a complementary stablemate that introduces many of the powertrain advances seen in the
SF90 Stradale
 - namely its plug-in hybrid powertrain - and the LaFerrari hypercar before that, but in a more accessible package.

A Ferrari PHEV?

Priced at RM1.228 million (before duties, customisation options, taxes, or insurance), the 296 GTB is certainly far from affordable, but seen through the lens of the Ferrari brand, it is their
‘mainstream’
 electrified model.

On the outside, the car looks much cleaner and more subdued than the marque’s other models, opting to adorn it with subtle contours instead of overt aero elements. Still, hidden veins, flaps, and spoilers are able to generate
360kg of downforce at 250km/h
 with the optional track-oriented Assetto Fiorano pack specified.

Even in standard guise, the 296 GTB is said to produce at least 100kg more aero press than its predecessors. Overall, its design follows nicely from foundations established with the Portofino and the Roma.

Powertrain

Its name is actually a reference to its mid-mounted F163 V6 that displaces 2,992cc. Its cylinder banks are actually angled 120 degrees apart, making it extremely flat to neatly package those twin IHI turbochargers and deliver a lower centre of gravity.

Its very close placement to the combustion chamber also offers maximum intake efficiency for sharper engine response. Ferrari has also gone to significant lengths to ensure this V6 evokes similar harmonics to their
naturally aspirated V12 engines
.

Despite its smaller size (similar to an F40 in displacement) and few cylinders, this engine sounds like quite the brute. On its own, it produces 663PS and has a redline of 8,500rpm, but when aided by the rear-mounted electric motor just ahead of its 8-speed dual-clutch gearbox, the 296 GTB cranks out a system output of 830PS and 740Nm.

0-100 in...

Thanks to the electric internals, it is far from the lightest car to emerge from Maranello, tipping the scales at 1,470kg. That said, Ferrari claims it’ll rocket to 100km/h from standstill in a fitting 2.9 seconds and hit 330km/h flat out.

The underfloor battery can hold 7.45kWh of charge, which is enough to theoretically power the 296 GTB with no intervention from the combustion engine for 25km. It might not be a big stretch, but you could almost call it the perfect Ferrari for the office commute. Like the SF90, the car is capable of recuperating kinetic energy through its MGU-K motor-generator.

Charging time to replenish the battery from the mains was a little murky but given its rather small capacity, it shouldn’t take more than a few hours even if connected directly to a household socket.

Inside, there’s a definite resemblance to the tech-focused cabin of Ferrari’s current electrified flagship, the SF90. Its driver-side dashboard is concave to reveal a digital instrument cluster and capacitive touch controls, a head-up display, and just about every function split between side panels and the Manettino.

Price

All this can be yours for a mere RM1.228 million (before duties, customisation options, taxes, or insurance).


Hyundai IONIQ 5 Open For Booking In Malaysia - Estimated At RM300k

Fresh off launching their
Hyundai Kona EV
, it appears Hyundai Sime Darby Motor is gearing up for the launch of the Hyundai IONIQ 5 in Malaysia.

Carlist.my can confirm that bookings are now being accepted for the Hyundai IONIQ 5. The booking fee of RM1000 will be fully refundable should your purchase not go through.

Our sources indicate that the IONIQ 5 will be priced under RM300k in top guise (though declined to comment whether top guise will be the Ultimate 73 kWh all-wheel-drive variant (as offered in the UK market) taking into account the EV tax exemptions from
Budget 2022
.

The local launch of the Hyundai IONIQ 5 is expected to take place locally either in April or May this year.

The
IONIQ 5
 is built upon the same E-GMP platform as the
Kia EV6
 - packing similarly potent performance. An electric range of up to 480 km and being able to charge from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes (with the right kind of charger) makes it a very compelling option for Malaysian buyers. It will come in both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive variants.

Battery options are available in either 58 kWh or 73 kWh. For the 58 kWh rear-wheel-drive variant, you get 170 PS and 350 Nm of torque. Going up to the mid-range 73 kWh rear-wheel-drive option, outputs go up to 217 PS and 350 Nm of torque. Topping out the range with the 73 kWh all-wheel-drive which will give you 305 PS and 605 Nm of torque.

On more regular charging options, a home AC wallbox charger will be able to get you to full power in roughly six hours depending on variant. Most DC fast chargers will get that time down to 45 minutes to an hour – to get you to an 80% charge. As mentioned earlier, all variants on the high-speed 350 kW charge system will take just under 18 minutes to reach 80% charge.

Rather surprisingly, the IONIQ 5 isn’t that heavy. Kerb weights start at 1,830 kilograms and go all the way up to 2,100 kilograms – fairly comparable with a modern mid-sized luxury sedan or SUV. Unfortunately, it isn’t exactly the largest of cars, being closer to a compact crossover than anything else – it seats five, though not with an astounding amount of legroom.

This is especially peculiar as while the wheelbase is astoundingly long at 3,000 mm, the overall length is just 100 mm or so longer than a Proton X70, and it is both marginally narrower and marginally shorter.

Active safety and functionality are fairly highly specified and flat across the range of models. The SE Connect entry-level model makes do with manual adjusting front driver seats, while the rest get electric adjustment. A 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system is common across all the variants, as is your usual host of connectivity options.

Items like Forward Collision Avoidance Assist and Highway Drive Assist are common across all variants, though vary in terms of assistance level. The SE Connect model gets a more rudimentary variant that doesn’t assist with crossing junctions and gets the first level of Highway Drive Assistance.

As for the prices in the UK to serve as a comparison, the IONIQ 5 retails for:

SE Connect variant: 36,995 GBP (RM 215,165) for the entry-level with the 58 kWh rear-wheel-drive package

Premium variant: 39,295 GBP (RM 228,542) for the 58 kWh rear-wheel-drive

Premium variant: 41,945 GBP (RM 243,954) for the 73 kWh rear-wheel-drive

Premium variant: 45,145 GBP (RM 262,566) for the 73 kWh all-wheel-drive

Ultimate variant: 42,295 GBP (RM 245,990) for the 58 kWh rear-wheel-drive

Ultimate variant: 44,945 GBP (RM 261,402) for the 73 kWh rear-wheel-drive

Ultimate variant: 48,145 GBP (RM 280,014) for the 73 kWh all-wheel-drive

Now it remains to be seen if the offerings in Malaysia will be as extensive or a bit more streamlined.

For those of you who recall, the Sultan of Johor, His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar already owns the
Hyundai IONIQ 5
, rolling up in it for his meeting with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob in September of last year.

In the meantime check out our review of the Hyundai Kona below:


The Volvo 850 Turns 25 Years Old

Volvo has gone through various evolutionary leaps throughout its existence as a company. The Swedish brand has maintained a strong emphasis on safety throughout, but there are numerous technological, design, and branding changes that have really helped to shape the company as the chic, sophisticated luxury car manufacturer we see today.
25 years ago, Volvo first took the covers off of their 850 sedan. It was a model that boasted four “firsts” for their model line- it packed a transverse 5-cylinder motor, a delta-link rear axle, the side impact protection system (forefather to Volvo’s incredibly strong chassis technology today), and a self-adjusting front seatbelt. This may seem relatively pedestrian, but the 850 would prove to be iconic in a number of ways.
It was more than just an evolution of the earlier 700 series, having started development in the late 1970s. While the sedan formed the backbone of the 850 lineup, it was the wagon that most people will remember it for. It’s hard to believe it now, but the boxy wagon took home two design prizes in its time- including one from the Italians, no less.
While there were a number of engines available for the 850, the most sought after was the T-5R found in the 850R. The motor was a turbocharged and intercooled variant of the inline-5 in the regular 850 GLT, pushing 240 hp and 330 Nm of torque at a time when 200 hp was considered high performance. The initial run of 2,500 yellow 850Rs sold out within the first few weeks, and the remaining 2,500 850Rs were finished in a dark green paint job.
The 850 also proved to be a formidable weapon on track, in wagon trim. It was entered by Volvo in the British Touring Car Championship and proceeded to dominate during the 1995 season. This was attributed to the increased natural downforce as a result of the wagon shape, and the form was banned for the following season. These days, we see a number of BTCC teams adopting the wagon or touring variants of their cars- no doubt for the same reason.
In later years of 850 production, Volvo also introduced an AWD model which had a viscous coupling to transfer power to the rear wheels. The slip allowed the system to be all-wheel drive nearly all of the time, and these variants came with a light-turbocharged motor with 193 hp on tap. While not quite the 850R, these cars could be just as quick.
Throughout its 6 years of production, the 850 single handled changed both the image and the direction in which Volvo was headed. It proved that estates need not be slow and cumbersome, and it paved the way for the S70 and V70 to come. A total of 1,360,522 850-based models were produced during that 6 year time period. With Volvo’s comeback to the world of touring cars, its only fitting that we pay homage to the car that started it all.


Audi Hosts First-Ever Tech Talk For Customers In Malaysia

Following the opening of the first Running Gear Competence Centre in Malaysia last month, Audi hosted it’s first-ever Tech Talk for Malaysian customers to educate more about what it takes to keep their valued vehicles in top condition.
Located at the Audi Kuala Lumpur Service Centre, the Running Gear Competence Centre is a dedicated facility equipped with the latest technology used by Audi to ensure that the vehicles continues to deliver the best ride possible.
The Tech Talk agenda covered some of the brand new equipment within the Running Gear Competence Centre including the tyre warmers, tyre changers, and wheel balancer.
“This is the first-ever Tech Talk conducted for customers in the South-East Asian region where they get a ‘behind the scenes’ look at what Audi Top Service is really about,” said Daniel Watts, General Manager of Aftersales, Dealer Development & Training.
Participants at the Tech Talk were put through a series of interactive, hands-on stations involving the specialised equipment, under the helpful guidance of Audi experts. These included the Noise Analysis, Wheel Balancing and the Run-Out Assessment, which measures the hubs and brake rotors.
According to Audi, the Tech Talk and inauguration of the Running Gear Competence Centre reflect the commitment that the brand has towards delivering “Audi Top Service”.
In addition, Audi continues to expand its offerings and solutions to customers through a service team which has gone through more than 4,500 training hours a year, services like the Audi Top Service Shuttles which chauffeur customers in the A8 L and the R8 from the Service Centre to their desired locations after dropping off their vehicles, and also nationwide Service Clinics which offer free vehicle inspection, consultation and promotions on service packages.


All-New 2017 Mitsubishi Expander Previewed, Global Debut At GIIAS

Mitsubishi has previewed the all-new seven-seater MPV in Indonesia, with the global debut expected to happen at the 2017 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show in Jakarta next month. The new Mitsubishi MPV will be assembled at the company's new production facility in Bekasi, West Jawa.
Expected to be named Expander, the new model combines elements from an SUV and MPV into one package. The company said that the new model will feature "generous room for luggage or cargo, all at a competitive price".
Visually, the new Mitsubishi Expander features the company's Dynamic Shield corporate design up front. The LED daytime running lights are positioned at the top, at each end of the front grille. The headlights are located at the bottom edge of the front bumper, just above the turn signals. A pair of front fog lights can be found at the very bottom of the front bumper.
As for the interior, the Mitsubishi Expander gets a dual-tone black and beige configuration with fabric upholstery. Keyless Operation System is available, and the Mitsubishi Expander also comes with follow-me-home lights, which keeps the headlights on for 30 seconds after exiting the vehicle. From the photos released by Mitsubishi, we can also see that the new Expander gets a 2-DIN infotainment system, conventional air-conditioning controls, steering wheel-mounted audio control and a large colour multi-info display (MID). The cabin also features various 12V sockets and USB ports for convenience.
Power comes from a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with MIVEC, paired to either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic that sends power to the front wheels. Output figures have yet to be disclosed by Mitsubishi.
The new Mitsubishi Expander is developed for Indonesia's Low Multi Purpose Vehicle (LMPV) segment, in which it will compete against the Honda BR-V, Toyota Avanza, Suzuki Ertiga and Nissan Grand Livina. Nissan could utilize the Expander's platform for its next generation Grand Livina as the former holds a 34% stake in Mitsubishi.
When the new Mitsubishi Expander goes official in Indonesia next month, a total of six variants are expected, with prices starting from IDR 189 million till IDR 246 million (~RM61k to RM79k).


Honda City Hatchback 1.5V vs Toyota Yaris 1.5G – Hatchback Bawah RM90,000

Sedang mencari kereta
hatchback
?  Antara
Toyota Yaris 1.5G
 ataupun
Honda City Hatchback 1.5V
, mana satu pembelian yang lebih berbaloi?

Untuk membandingkan kedua-dua kereta hatchback ini, kami akan mengambil varian tertinggi Yaris (1.5G) untuk dibandingkan bersama Honda City Hatchback 1.5V. Varian V bagi City Hatchback bukanlah varian tertinggi untuk model tersebut kerana varian tertingginya adalah versi
RS e:HEV
 yang merupakan sebuah kenderaan hibrid.

Harga

Toyota Yaris 1.5G: RM84,808

Honda City Hatchback 1.5V: RM87,856

Percaya atau tidak, faktor harga merupakan antara sebab utama mengapa seseorang memilih untuk membeli sesuatu kereta. Toyota Yaris dijual pada harga RM3,048 lebih murah berbanding City Hatchback. Mungkin bagi sesetengah orang perbezaan RM3k itu tidaklah sebesar mana, namun ia mampu untuk mempengaruhi keputusan pembeli.

Dimensi

Toyota Yaris 1.5G:

Tinggi: 1,475mm

Lebar: 1,730mm

Panjang: 4,145mm

Jarak Roda: 2,550mm

Honda City Hatchback 1.5V:

Tinggi: 1,488mm

Lebar: 1,7480mm

Panjang: 4,345mm

Jarak Roda: 2,600mm

Jika diletakkan secara bersebelahan, perbezaan saiz yang terdapat pada kedua-dua model ini tidaklah begitu ketara kelihatan walaupun City Hatchback lebih besar, tinggi dan lebar berbanding Yaris secara keseluruhannya.

Enjin dan Prestasi

Toyota Yaris 1.5G:

Enjin: 1.5L empat silinder, DOHC Dual VVT

Output: 107 PS

Tork: 140 Nm

Transmisi: CVT Sport Sequential Shiftmatic 7-kelajuan

Honda City Hatchback 1.5V:

Enjin: 1.5L empat silinder, DOHC i-VTEC

Output: 121 PS

Tork: 145 Nm

Transmisi: CVT

Kelajuan maksimum: 194 km/j

0-100 km/j: 10.7 saat

Sementara itu, untuk perbezaan dari segi enjin dan prestasi pula, kedua-dua kereta menggunakan enjin berkapasiti 1.5L. Walau bagaimanapun, enjin pada City Hatchback lebih berkuasa kalau dilihat dari atas kertas kerana menghasilkan lebihan output sebanyak 14 PS dan 5 Nm tork berbanding Yaris.

Dari segi pecutan, Honda City Hatchback varian V ini mampu bergerak pada kelajuan maksimum 194 km/j manakala pecutan dari 0-100 km/j pula mengambil masa 10.7 saat. Sementara itu, maklumat ini tidak disediakan di lawan web rasmi Toyota namun jika melihat dari kapasiti enjin dan output yang dihasilkan, boleh dikatakan bahawa City Hatchback lebih berkuasa berbanding Yaris.

Ciri Keselamatan

Toyota Yaris 1.5G:

7 beg udara keselamatan

Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) & Traction Control (TRC)

ABS dengan EBD dan BA

Pre-Collision System (PCS)

Lane Departure Alert (LDA)

3D Panoramic View Monitor (PVM)

Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)

Hill-start Assist Control (HAC)

Front Digital Video Recorder (DVR)

Emergency Stop Signal (ESS)

Parking Sensor

Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL) di tempat duduk hadapan

Penggera dengan fungsi immobilizer

Honda City Hatchback 1.5V:

6 beg udara keselamatan

Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)

ABS dengan EBD dan BA

Auto Brake Hold (ABH)

Hill Start Assist (HSA)

Emergency Stop Signal (ESS)

Reverse sensor

Reverse camera

Honda LaneWatch

Penggera dengan fungsi immobilizer

Dari segi keselamatan, Toyota Yaris tampil lebih hebat berbanding City Hatchback varian V berdasarkan teknologi dan ciri keselamatan Toyota Safety Sense yang ditawarkan pada Yaris varian G. Sistem keselamatan yang ada pada City Hatchback varian V hanyalah sistem keselamatan asas seperti beg udara keselamatan, VSA, ABS, EBD, HSA, dan ESS.

Teknologi bantuan pemanduan yang ada pada Yaris seperti Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), LDA, BSM dan RCTA lebih berbaloi jika nak dibandingkan dengan City Hatchback varian V yang hanya dilengkapi dengan kamera undur dan Honda LaneWatch. Honda City Hatchback varian V tidak dilengkapi dengan Honda SENSING, sebaliknya hanya versi City Hatchback RS e:HEV sahaja yang menerima Honda SENSING.

Exterior

Perlu diingat, membeli kereta tidaklah semudah memilih kereta mana yang paling banyak ciri dan teknologi semata-mata. Rupa dan perasaan memandu kereta sesuatu kereta juga memainkan peranan penting dalam memilih kereta yang sesuai. Daripada segi rupa bentuk, tidak dinafikan bahawa Honda City Hatchback lebih memberi penegasan dalam rupa bentuknya memandangkan ia masih baru dan segar dalam pasaran.

Model facelift Toyota Yaris pula tampil dengan lampu hadapan LED “triple bezel” serta rekaan bampar, gril serta aerokit yang baru. Kesemua lampunya hadir dalam versi LED termasuk lampu utama, lampu nyalaan siang (DRL) dan rim bersaiz 16-inci. City Hatchback 1.5V juga muncul dengan perincian sama seperti lampu hadapan LED sepenuhnya bersama lampu kabus hadapan LED dan rim aloi dua tona bersaiz 16-inci.

Interior

Dari segi interior pula, Toyota Yaris telah dipertingkat dengan sistem paparan audio bersama skrin sesentuh 7-inci dan boleh disambung dengan Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, USB dan juga Bluetooth bersama 6 unit pembesar suara.

Sementara itu, bahagian dalaman City Hatchback pula berkongsi rekaan dalaman yang sama dengan model sedan termasuk papan pemuka, roda stereng dan juga tempat duduk hadapan. Sistem infotainmen dengan skrin sesentuh 8-inci bersama sokongan Apple Carplay dan Android Auto pada City dipadankan dengan 8 pembesar suara.

Walau bagaimanapun, ruang dalaman City Hatchback lebih menyerlah dengan konfigurasi Ultra Seat yang sama seperti Jazz. Ultra Seat menawarkan 4 larasan tempat duduk fleksibel iaitu mod Refresh, Long, Tall dan Utility.

Kesimpulannya, jika diukur dari segi teknologi, ciri keselamatan dan harga, Toyota Yaris 1.5G ternyata pilihan yang lebih berbaloi. Jika anda mahukan lebih kuasa pada output enjin dan tork, pilihlah Honda City Hatchback 1.5V. Namun jika dibandingkan secara keseluruhan, nampak seperti City Hatchback menjadi pilihan yang lebih menarik berbanding Yaris.

Apa-apapun, jika anda berminat dengan salah satu daripada kereta yang disebutkan, pastikan anda pandu uji kereta tersebut untuk mendapatkan pengalaman pemanduan yang lebih realistik sebelum membuat tempahan.

Sejujurnya, jika anda sedang mencari kereta hatchback dengan bajet di bawah RM90,000, antara Yaris dan City Hatchback, yang mana satu yang bakal anda tempah dulu?


2023 Honda Civic FL5 Type R - Made In Japan Now

Jason from HondaPro Jason gives the world some good insight about the new 2023 Honda Civic FL5 Type R, including the fact that it will be manufactured in its spiritual home of Japan!

As promised by Honda Motor Co., Ltd, they globally unveiled the new generation 2023 Honda Civic Type R on the 21st of July, 2022. Most of us had to view it online, but some Americans and Europeans were lucky enough to see it up close and personal as Honda exhibited the car in selected countries.

While it was met with fanfare, many fans were annoyed with
the premier
as Honda left out many vital details, including crucial information such as performance figures.

However, this didn't stop many American Youtubers from dissecting the FL5 Type R in detail, as they were one of the first people on earth to physically see the car in front of their very eyes.

American Youtuber, HondaPro Jason who dedicates his channel to the ins and outs of Honda cars, pointed out some very interesting things about the new FL5 Civic Type R.

While
we covered what we could from online information
, there's nothing like seeing the car for yourself, where you can pick out certain peculiar things about the racier version of the Civic.

2022 Honda Civic FL5 Type R - It's a wide girl

Based on the
current-generation Honda Civic
, we all know by now that the 2023 Honda Civic Type R carries a more 'matured' facade. What we can't tell however is how wide it is.

Jason starts by saying how concave the hood is and how nicely it works its way "into the massively wide fenders". Looking at the fender from a different angle, seeing it on screen, the difference between the width of the regular Civic and the Type R becomes quite obvious. Jason also mentions that the wide fender and the side skirt are a one-piece body kit.

The intake grilles are huge - FL5 Type R

Compared to the previous generation Honda Civic Type R, the intake grilles are much larger in the current gen Type R.

Both the upper and lower air intake grille is larger, and judging by Jason's crude calculations, it could be up to 30% larger. As a result, "a lot more air will go into the radiator and hopefully keep the engine cooler".

The hood vent has two functions on the 2023 Type R

The hood vent on the FK8 was meant to help vent out hot air, but the hood vent in the FL5 can vent out "a lot of hot air" as well as take in cooler air. Size matters?

New turbo and a peculiar-looking thing at the intake system

We all know that the 2023 Honda Civic FL5 Type R is the most powerful Honda Civic Type R to ever come out of the factory, and one of the reasons for this is due to the new turbocharger unit.

While Jason mentioned that the turbo is a new piece of hardware, he also noticed this peculiar-looking boxed shape hardware baked into the intake system. Unfortunately, he doesn't know what it is, and we'll probably only find out when Honda unveils its performance figures later on.

The Honda Civic Type R will now be built in Japan!

One of the biggest revelations from Jason's walkaround video is that he noticed that the 2023 Honda Civic Type R was built in Japan.

In the video, Jason pointed out its VIN on the windscreen, which clearly showed the alphabet J in front of the other alphabets and numbers. According to Jason, this is a clear indication that the Honda Civic Type R will be made in Japan. For the first time in 20 years, all Civic Type Rs will be built in Japan instead of Swindon, England.

Parts of the rear end feel like they were inspired by Mugen and Spoon parts

Jason reckons that the best aftermarket kits inspired the rear spoiler and bumper of the new Honda Civic.

He said the bumper reminded him of the Spoon bumper, and the spoiler reminded him of the ones created by Mugen. "It feels like Honda literally took the best of aftermarket parts and slapped them on the car".

Jason ended the video by saying that no one knows its price, power, and suspension setup, but it'll all be revealed soon as the premier is pretty much about getting a first feel and impression of the car.

Honda, why do you do this to us? Just kiss and tell already.