Review: Jaguar XE R Sport – The leap after the crouch

The last time
Jaguar
 entered the premium compact sedan game with the X Type, things didn’t really turn out in the brand's favour as the car simply failed to impress both in terms of design or sheer driving pleasure.
For a car that was in a segment where sportiness is much sought after, the
X Type
 was just too conservative. Plus, it was in the same segment as models like the
BMW 3-Series
,
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
, and the
Audi A4
 that were just so much more fun to look at and to be in.
Although the brand was making waves to a certain extent later on in the mid-sized sedan segment with the
XF
 and in the limo game with the
XJ
, it was silent in the compact sedan segment for some time.
But just like how a Jaguar would crouch for a moment before making a huge leap forward towards its prey in the wild, the British carmaker took its time, discreetly working on the X Type’s successor – the XE, which eventually made its global debut in 2014 and its
Malaysian debut
 a couple of months ago.
Specifications
Price: RM365,730
Engine: 2.0 Litre in-line four turbocharged petrol
Max Power: 240PS at 5,500rpm
Max Torque: 340Nm from 1,750 to 4,000rpm
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic with torque converter
Safety features: 6 airbags, Hill Launch Assist, Emergency Brake Assist, Dynamic Stability Control and Traction Control, Isofix, rear camera
Origin: Fully imported from the UK
Overview
In Malaysia, the Jaguar XE is offered in three variants:
Jaguar XE 2.0 Prestige (200PS/280Nm) – RM344,730
Jaguar XE 2.0 R-Sport (240PS/340Nm) – RM365,730
Jaguar XE 3.0 S (340PS/450Nm) – RM582,467
The model which we reviewed was the XE 2.0 R-Sport, which is the mid-range variant. Although the R-Sport is powered by the same 2.0-litre engine as the XE Prestige, it has been tuned to produce more power. Besides being able to kick out 40PS more than the Prestige, the XE R-Sport is capable of sprinting from standstill to 100km/h in 6.8 seconds, and achieves a claimed top speed of 250km/h. And paired to the Ford-derived engine is an eight-speed automatic transmission by ZF.
Now, as much as the Malaysian market is concerned, just because the XE is in the same segment as the 3-Series, C-Class, and the Audi A4, we can’t really put them directly against one another due to its positioning within the segment.
While the 3-Series, C-Class, and the A4 are in a war of their own, the XE, like the Lexus IS 200t, is priced much higher as both these models are fully imported So, it wouldn’t really make sense to put the Brit directly against the Germans.
As we mentioned in the launch report, the big news about the XE is that it is the first Jaguar to be constructed on the brand’s new modular aluminium-intensive platform, which would also underpin many of the brand’s upcoming models such as the F-Pace SUV and the new XF which are expected to make their Malaysian debut later this year.
Coming back to the XE, all variants are offered with a five-year or 150,000km warranty along with a three-year roadside assist package. Owners of the 2.0-litre Prestige and R-Sport variants are also eligible for a five-year or 80,000km free scheduled maintenance while the 3.0-litre S variant receives a five-year or 65,000km package.
Exterior
Measuring at 4,672mm long, 1,850mm wide and 1,416mm tall with a wheelbase length of 2,835mm long, the XE is 48mm longer, 40mm wider, and 13mm shorter than the BMW F30 3 Series.
The R-Sport variant which we tested comes with an exclusive body kit which includes an R-Sport front bumper, body-coloured side sills, chromed power vents, as well as a rear spoiler. This variant also gets 18-inch five-spoke alloy wheels as standard. However, the particular unit which we reviewed was fitted with19-inch rubbers and wheels.
While the Prestige variant gets chromed lining around the windows, the grille and the air vents, the R-Sport variant, similar to the S variant, gets gloss black accents, which give the car a sportier and more menacing appearance. The icing on the cake is of course, the black wheels and the ‘bare’ exhaust tips.
Compared to the X-Type, the XE is eons ahead as far as looks are concerned. There is just something about the XE’s simplicity that makes it attractive. Although it is not half as sharp as the F-Type or the Project 7, the XE, which takes a lot of inspiration from the XJ and the XF, is still a handsome car and remains just as outstanding and recognizable as its two-door siblings in the stable.
Interior
As impressive it was on the outside, the XE’s interior was a bit of a letdown due to a couple of things. Firstly, the quality of the interior trim could’ve been much better. For a car that costs more than RM350,000, there should’ve been more leather or at least, some premium soft-touch plastic.
And then there were the rear seats which were pretty cramped up. During our stint with the car, occupants who were about 175cm and taller were having a tough time with leg space, and also when they were getting in and out of the car. ‘Thanks’ to the low roofline, headroom came at a premium as well, and by volume the boot is also the smallest in class. So, if space and refinement is something that you’re looking for, you might want to look elsewhere.
On the brighter side, the car comes well equipped with goodies such as the very user-friendly touchscreen infotainment system, climate control, parking sensors, Jaguar Drive Control, Speed Proportional Electric Power Steering, powered seats, Meridian audio system, as well as a retractable panoramic roof. Unlike the rear seats, the two seats upfront provided great support and comfort at all times.
How does it drive?
Behind the wheel, the Jaguar XE felt dynamic yet comfortable at the same time. While most of its rivals in the same segment have struggled to achieve the perfect balance between comfort and dynamism, Jaguar has somehow managed to get it right. Regardless of whether we were cruising on the highway, stuck in mid-day traffic, blasting through some twisty bits, or traversing through the potholes of Petaling Jaya, the car felt super comfortable at any given time.
And despite the size, the XE was remarkably agile, thanks to the relatively lightweight aluminium chassis. Besides that, the sophisticated multi-link suspension setup smothered all bumps and lumps respectably while keeping the wheels firmly in contact with the road.
There are four driving modes to choose from – Normal, Eco, Dynamic, and Winter, in which the car’s characteristics differed significantly from one mode to another. In Normal and Eco mode, the car felt like any other 2.0-litre sedan out there cruising about the city. The steering wheel and accelerator pedal felt rather heavy, and we needed to work the engine quite a bit to get some power in return.
In Dynamic mode however, things got pretty interesting. The first thing we noticed was that the colour of the instrument panel turned from blue to red, indicating that the big cat meant serious business in this mode.
What happens in this mode is that the steering becomes lighter and more responsive and the throttle becomes more sensitive, allowing us to rev the engine harder and go quicker. Even the slightest of touches on the accelerator pedal had the car nudging forward, asking for more.
Complemented by the combination of brilliantly tuned chassis and suspensions, the car felt planted at all times, did exactly what we expected it to do at corners, and instilled a lot of confidence in us while driving it.
But is it more fun to drive than its German rivals? Maybe not in Eco or Normal mode, but in Dynamic mode, absolutely!
How economical is it?
Throughout our stint with the XE, we clocked an average fuel consumption of 9.8-litres/100km, which was slightly more than the claimed 7.5litres/100km, probably because we spent most of our time driving it hard.
Verdict
Just like any other car out there, the XE has its strengths and its shortcomings, but it has definitely taken a giant leap forward from what its predecessor was. On the plus side, it looks good, feels comfortable to be in, and has turned out to be an absolute joy to drive. On the downside, there is the lack of cabin space and refinement.
In case you’re wondering if it is worth spending additional money for a car that is still in the same segment as the 3-Series, C-Class, and the A4 which ask for less, remember that exclusivity does come at a price. Plus, no matter where the XE goes, it will definitely stand out from the sea of ‘3’s and ‘C’s.
Looking for a Jaguar XE? Find one now at
Carlist.my


Proton Offers Enhanced YES Altitude 4G Package – Offered For Executive Variants And Up

Proton Holdings Bhd, in collaboration with YTL Communications Sdn Bhd have launched their latest in-car connectivity device, the YES Altitude 4G LTE Smartphone.
Previously, Proton owners were offered YES 4G Huddle XS mobile hotspot device – now upgraded to leverage off YES’ comprehensive LTE and 4G broadband networks.
Known as the PROTON YES Altitude Plan – it provides customers with data usage of up to 16GB of 4G LTE per month for a period of 12 months from the date of registration, effective from 14 January 2017. The package is offered to all Proton cars of Executive variants and above, subject to terms and conditions, previously the plan was only offered with selected models such as the Proton Suprima.
Dato Ahmad Fuaad Kenali, Chief Executive Officer of Proton commented, “The offer is valid while stocks last and we are confident that this special offer of great connection through the YES network which is a global frontrunner of 4G Internet, with 2 robust mobile networks (4G LTE with VoLTE and 4G Broadband) and has a coverage of 85% of the population nationwide, urban and rural landscape, will benefit customers,”
He added, “The Company believes that technology and car development goes hand in hand. With the current trend of using a mobile device at our fingertips for conveniences, customers can now also download the MyProton application with the YES Altitude 4G LTE smartphone to test drive cars, book service appointments and get details on Proton cars and its offerings. The application is available for both iOS and the Android platform.”


BMW Films Releases The Escape, features BMW G30 5 Series

It's finally here. The Escape, a short film by BMW that
we talked about earlier
, was released over the weekend- and it is every bit as good as we hoped. The cast is a little more star studded this time, with Dakota Fanning (War of the Worlds, I Am Sam) and Jon Bernthal (Walking Dead) joining the prerequisite Clive Owen. Not to say that the original BMW Films were lacking in production value, but it is vastly clear that the budget for this new film is much, much higher.
The choice of Neill Blomkamp as a director is also reflective of the times; his movies are the best blend of practical effects and CGI and a solid reflection of this era of filmmaking. Without spoiling too much for you, the film features a few exciting chase sequences- although perhaps not as much as we were hoping for in terms of driving action. Still though, the acting and the storyline are
on point
, and even seeing the new 5 Series being tossed around and peppered with bullets is entertainment enough. We only hope that this will not be but a brief revival of the BMW Films department, and hopefully we will see more to come.


2023 Lotus Eletre SUV officially launched - Up to 905hp, 985Nm of torque from RM578k

Lotus Cars Malaysia has launched the all-new
Lotus Eletre
 SUV, an electric vehicle which marks a new chapter for the sports car manufacturer. Malaysia is the first market out of China to receive the highly anticipated EV SUV, probably due to Lotus' association with our country.

200 Units will be brought in this year, with more than half of them already belonging to their respective owners. There are three variants available for Hethle's first EV, with prices starting from RM528,000. Deliveries of the EV is expected to place in Q4 this year.

2023 Lotus Eletre - 3 variants

There are three variants for the all-new all-electric Lotus, the Eletre, Eletre S and Eletre R.

Lotus Eletre – from RM578,000

Lotus Eletre S – from RM648,000

Lotus Eletre R – from RM798,000

All prices are on-the-road, without insurance and road tax, for Peninsular Malaysia.

EV Powertrain

All variants of the Lotus Eletre comes with two electric motors, one driving the front wheels and another driving the rear wheels to deliver all-wheel-drive (AWD) capabilities.

The Eletre and Eletre S are powered by a single-speed system to deliver 603 hp and 710 Nm of torque with 0-100 km/h performance of 4.5 seconds and 80-120 km/h in less than 2.2 seconds. Both variants are capable of achieving top speeds of 258 km/h and a maximum WLTP driving range of 600 km.

The flagship Eletre R comes with a dual-speed system that offers an impressive output of 905 hp and 985 Nm of torque, capable of delivering a century sprint time of just 2.95 seconds and an acceleration of 80-120 km/h in less than 1.9 seconds with a top speed of 265 km/h.

Accoding to Lotus, this makes the Eletre R the world’s fastest dual-motor pure electric SUV. Maximum WLTP driving for the Eletre R is 490 km.

All three variants feature a 112 kWh battery and a 350 kW charger that enables a rapid charging time of 10-80 per cent in just 20 minutes. It also comes with the ability as standard to accept 22kW AC charging.

Exterior design and features

A signature element of the Eletre’s exterior design is its ‘porosity’ theme, which means the car has a lot of functioning holes.

The aerodynamics flows through the car as well as under, over and around it. Most obvious are two exit vents on the bonnet that channel air from under the car’s leading edge.

Other examples can be found ahead of and behind the front wheel arches, behind the rear wheels, and even at the top of the D-pillar. Together, they enable less resistance in cutting through the air while delivering more efficiency in terms of improved vehicle range, speed and performance.

Interior Features

Seeing that the Eletre is an SUV, all three variants come with a five-seat configuration, and a rear boot capacity of 688 litres and 1.532 litres with the rear seats folded.

A four-seat configuration is available as part of the optional Executive Seat Pack.

There is a wealth of practical storage space in the Eletre, including a storage tray with wireless charging for mobile phones, cup holders that sit flush to the surface until they’re needed and door bins that will take a litre bottle, as well as under the boot floor.

All variants also come standard with an auto-dimming frameless rear-view mirror, four-way electrically adjustable steering column and heated multi-function steering wheel, front and rear USB-C ports, four-zone automatic climate control system, 12-way electrically adjustable front seats with memory,electrically adjustable front and rear air vents, and i-Size child seat anchor points on the outboard rear seats.

Lotus Eletre’s infotainment system is accessed through a centrally-mounted ‘floating’ 15.1-inch full HD OLED display, which automatically folds flat when not required.

The ultra-slim one-billion-colour OLED display unit from ECARX offers fully customisable displays via an advanced Driver Information Module (DIM), which can be continuously improved during the lifetime of the car via OTA updates.

Safety

The Lotus Eletre is equipped with a comprehensive suite Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) which will get OTA updates through out its lifetime

All variants are available with:

Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC),

Rear Collision Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Front Cross Traffic Alert (FCTA)

Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning / Prevention (LKA+), Blind Spot Detection, Traffic Sign Information (TSI)

Front and Rear Park Assist, Visual Park Assist and Lotus Intelligent Dynamic Chassis Control.

The Eletre is also equipped with the world’s first deployable LIDAR system to support end-to-end autonomous driving technology and is future-proofed for further development, achievable because of the hardware that’s already integrated.

Further capability can be added via OTA software updates, as and when it is allowed by local market regulation.


Lean And Green: Malaysia's First Electric Bus On The BRT-Sunway Line Starts In June

Starting in June 2015, the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) – Sunway Line have in service Malaysia's first electric bus. To accompany that milestone, it will be riding on the first fully elevated bus-only route in South East Asia.
The BRT undertaking is a collaborative effort between Prasarana Malaysia Berhad and the Sunway Group through the Public Private Partnership programme (PPP) that was launched by Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Najib Tun Razak on June 9
th
, 2012.
It should be a boon for the approximate half-a-million residents of Bandar Sunway as well as those commuting to areas in and around such as shoppers, office-goers, and college students as the big-picture plan for the BRT is to integrate connections to LRT and KTM Komuter stations and become a main transport option in that area. It works by having buses operate on above-ground lanes with stations at popular locations, much like the LRT, but with ridership being able to be dynamically adapted by the amount of buses in operation within the circuit.
Along with easing the on-ground vehicle congestion, it would also promote a greener and more ecologically sensitive lifestyle with the zero emissions electric buses, allowing for an area with much less noise and air pollution than its population density would suggest. The BRT-Sunway Line will be spread across 5.4 km of elevated lanes that accommodates 15 environmentally-friendly buses with a capacity of 67 passengers (25 seated) each.
Buses will stop at one of seven stations: Station Sunway, Setia Jaya, Mentari, Lagoon, SunMed, SunU-Monash, South Quay, and finally USJ7.
“With integration and connections to the KTM Komuter service and our LRT in the future, the impact of this BRT project will be massive in terms of providing mobility and connectivity to the people, which is the core business of Prasarana. We also hope that the success of this project would open doors for more PPP projects. We at Prasarana are always open for win-win propositions that benefit the rakyat,” said Prasarana Group Managing Director Encik Azmi Abdul Aziz at the BRT-Sunway Line Media Briefing and Site Visit in Bandar Sunway.


SPYSHOTS: Volkswagen Polo Sedan Facelift Revealed In Russia

What you’re looking at here is the facelift to the
Volkswagen

Polo
 Sedan fully revealed in Russia. The images were sourced from Russian social networking site Vkontakte via
IAB
. Like the refreshed
Volkswagen Polo Hatchback
 we previously shown you, noticeable differences are apparent on the exterior of the vehicle.
Up front, there is a new grille that features three slates and the hood of the car is no longer machined to make way for the ‘VW’ badge as found in the previous model. The new fog lights also features new enclosures to match those of the Polo. Similarly, the side mirrors now features integrated signal indicators.
Moving on to the rear, the chrome strip originally found on the bottom of the boot lid now rests above the number plate enclosure. Expect interior changes to be minor including the upholstery.
The current Volkswagen Polo Sedan sold in Malaysia:
If and when the updated
Volkswagen Polo
 Sedan does make its way into Malaysia, we should expect the same powertrain as that found in the Hatchback that is a 1.6-litre petrol and six-speed torque convertor automatic.


Mazda SkyActiv-X Power Figures Leaked, 178 hp, 222 Nm In Mazda 3

The roll-out of Mazda's cutting edge SkyActiv-X engines is taking a little longer than we hoped, and Mazda has remained tight lips on the actual performance of the road-going engine.
For those who aren't familiar
, the SkyActiv-X is an ultra-high compression, lean-burning, supercharged engine that Mazda developed in order to push the petrol engine to its most efficient form.
It alternates between an augmented compression ignition and pure spark ignition depending on the conditions, but the result is an engine that is far more efficient even if you're pushing it. This is Mazda's response to hybrid technologies and turbochargers, which they feel are still not necessary as of yet. It's part of the company's ethos to get the best out of a car - almost reminiscent of Soichiro Honda in his younger days.
Out in Slovakia, leaked brochures of the all-new Mazda 3
were picked up by Jalopnik
, where the figures for the new SkyActiv-X powertrain were revealed. Europe seems to get it good as they will have a six-speed manual, all-wheel drive option - but the main point here is the SkyActiv-X 2.0 variant seen here produces a healthy 178 hp and 222 Nm of torque.
These figures may not be ground-breaking for a supercharged vehicle, but the supercharger is only there to augment the compression ratio and maintain performance outputs despite the lean burn. For performance seekers, there may be turbocharged models of the Mazda 3 in the future given their willingness to run the turbocharged SkyActiv-G 2.5-litre engine in their larger models.


2022 Isuzu D-Max Now Enhanced With New Features and Colours - RM146,938

Isuzu launches the 2022 Isuzu D-Max, which is now enhanced with four new features and two new colours for RM146,938.

With five 'Pick-up Truck of the Year' titles under its belt, it's safe to say that the Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain has taken the market by storm since its
debut a year ago
.

It ticked
all the right boxes
 and has proven to be one of the most capable,
versatile and sophisticated
 trucks in the market today.

To reinforce its status as one of the
most appreciated trucks
 in recent times, Isuzu Malaysia has decided to raise the bar by offering customers minor but significant updates on the X-Terrain, which should add more value to its already impressive list of credentials.

"The new-generation Isuzu D-Max remains our source of pride as it bridges the gap between how pick-up trucks should perform and what customers desire. The flagship D-Max X-Terrain, in particular, sought to ensure customers enjoy some truly stand-out features that make their motoring safer and pleasurable," said Isuzu Malaysia's Chief Executive Officer Shunsuke Okazoe.

The updates for the 2022 Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain include:

New Colours

360° Camera

Wireless Charger

Welcome light (puddle light)

Illuminated scuff plates

Colours

Starting from today, the Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain will be offered in
two
 different colours, Silky Pearl White and Onyx Black. Valencia Orange will remain but Isuzu Malaysia has decided to drop the Sapphire Blue colourway and will only offer these three colours for the X-Terrain variant. According to Isuzu, these new colours add a fresh dimension to the D-Max's sporty look.

360° Camera

Another enhancement that the 2022 X-Terrain has received is in the form of an
Around-View Monitor
 that provides a 360° look at the immediate surroundings. Not only does this feature a bird's eye view when reverse gear is selected, but it also features a 3D guide in the 9" central display to aid with parking.

Wireless Charger

Another bit of tech that has been added is the
Qi wireless charging
 station that sits in front of the gear selector. Compatible with most smartphones, the unobtrusive charging allows drivers to enjoy uninterrupted Bluetooth connectivity by keeping their phones juiced up.

Illuminated scuff plates

Keeping the 2022 X-Terrain chic is the newly included illuminated scuff plates that not only help protect the sills from minor scratches but also offer an added touch of elegance to the truck.

Welcome light (puddle light)

The final but not the most negligible enhancement is the Welcome Lights, which are tucked away neatly beneath the vehicle. These LED lamps illuminate the surrounding foot areas when the doors are unlocked. When used in tandem with the D-Max's Follow-Me home lights, the feature will help keep occupants' footwear clean as they can see the ground they are stepping on when getting off the vehicle.

The updated Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain is available for booking immediately at all authorised Isuzu showrooms with deliveries starting mid-July. The updated D-Max has a price tag (on-the-road w/o insurance) of RM146,938 (RM148,561.10 Sabah, RM148,330.70 Sarawak).


Harley-Davidson Announces LiveWire, A Full Electric Motorcycle Division

The first new model from Harley-Davidson's LiveWire brand is set to debut on July 8, 2021.

We don't usually share much about what's going on in the motorcycle world, but the news of the oldest continually operating American motorcycle manufacturer launching their new electric-only brand is quite a piece of news and a milestone.

The new electric-only motorcycle brand from Harley-Davidson will be called LiveWire, a name that would be familiar to some, especially if you've watched "The Long Way Up" starring Ewan McGregor of Star Wars, Trainspotting, Salmon Fishing in the Yemen, The Men Who Stare at Goats, etc fame.

According to an announcement made by HD, the Milwaukee-based brand is trying a different approach to the whole electric motorcycle thing.

We suppose with the electric-only LiveWire bike not really picking up any steam, it's just best to have a fresh start which leaves excess baggage behind.

"One of the six pillars of The Hardwire Strategy is to lead in electric – by launching LiveWire as an all-electric brand, we are seizing the opportunity to lead and define the market in EV," said Harley-Davidson CEO Jochen Zeitz according to a report made by cnet.com

"With the mission to be the most desirable electric motorcycle brand in the world, LiveWire will pioneer the future of motorcycling for the pursuit of urban adventure and beyond. LiveWire also plans to innovate and develop technology that will be applicable to Harley-Davidson electric
motorcycles
 in the future."

It seems that instead of sticking to their old guns, which HD is usually infamous for doing, Harley is trying to put their best foot forward quickly, in the hope that they will be in front of the inevitable electric motorcycle curve.

This includes some dedicated LiveWire models and its network of showrooms, with the first being in California. It will be totally different from Harley-Davidson as we know it, but it will share technology with the mothership as well as its manufacturing footprint and supply chain.

For those who doubt Harley-Davidson's electric motorcycle credentials, watch the documentary, "The Long Way Up" featuring Ewan McGregor and his best friend Charley Boorman. It will change your mind. The duo basically transversed South and North America in electric Harley-Davidson bikes.

Now if that isn't the testament to how hardy an electric Harley-Davidson is, then we're not sure what is.

.


Bangkok 2018: Honda Previews The All-New Accord, To Offer Turbo And Hybrid Powertrains

Honda Motor Co. Thailand has just previewed the all-new Honda Accord at the Thailand International Motor Expo 2018.
Being just a preview, very little information has been shared on the silver model that is being displayed at the Expo. The company says the all-new Accord, now in its tenth generation, offers a revolutionary exterior design with sporty elegance which emphasizes a mixture of sport and luxury.
Compared to its predecessor, the all-new Accord features a longer wheelbase, and a wider but slightly shorter and lower body. In fact, the aggressively sloping C-pillar and rear panel has a strong resemblance to the smaller Civic sedan.
In the
North American market
, powertrain options are a 1.5-litre turbo (192 hp, 260 Nm) that is paired with a CVT-type automatic, a new 2.0-litre turbo (252 hp, 370 Nm) that sends its power via a new 10-speed torque converter automatic, and the third generation dual-motor petrol-electric sport hybrid.
Honda is planning to officially launch the all-new Accord in Thailand in early 2019. Back in September, a fully camouflaged test vehicle was
caught doing its rounds
 in the streets of Thailand.
The company also launched
the facelifted Honda Civic
 sedan at the Expo.


Video: Review - 2019 Mazda 3 2.0 Sedan High Plus

Say hello to the all-new Mazda 3, one of the most highly-anticipated cars of 2019.

Launched in July, the all-new Mazda 3, which is being imported from Japan, is currently being offered in Malaysia in five variants:

Mazda 3 1.5 Hatchback - RM 139,770

Mazda 3 1.5 Sedan - RM 139,770

Mazda 3 2.0 Sedan High - RM 150,059

Mazda 3 2.0 Sedan High Plus - RM 160,059

Mazda 3 2.0 Hatchback High Plus - RM 160,059

The model which we got our hands on was the range-topping variant – the Mazda 3 2.0 Sedan High Plus, which retails at RM 160,059 on the road without insurance.

Powering the car you see here is Mazda’s 2.0-litre SkyActiv-G petrol engine which outputs 162 hp and 213 Nm, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

Among the notable features on the Mazda 3 2.0 Sedan High Plus include

18-inch alloy wheels with 215/45 R18 tires

LED headlights with Front Signature Illumination

LED DRLs

LED tail lights with Rear Signature Illumination

Front and rear parking sensors

i-ActivSense advanced driver assistance system

Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS)

Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM)

Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)

Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS)

Lane-keep Assist System (LAS)

Drive Attention Alert (DAA)

Front and Rear Smart Brake Support (SBS)

Mazda Radar Cruise Control (MRCC)

Rear spoiler (hatchback only)

Thanks to the extensive list of equipment, and also the improved build quality, refinement, and design over the outgoing model, it is no surprise that the price has increased by a significant amount, but is it worth it?

So, in order to get a first-hand experience with the car, and to see what it has to offer and if it’s worth the hype, we took it for a spin, and here is what we think of it.

Our Rating

Design:  3.5/5 (Hatchback looks sexier)

Driving Dynamics: 4/5 (Definitely the best driving car in its segment)

Comfort: 3.5/5 (Seats are designed to constantly keep you in an upright position)

Convenience: 4/5 (Plenty storage space, rear A/C vent, 2 USB ports, HUGE boot)

Space: 3/5 (Rear seat space comes at a premium)

Ups & Downs

Plus: Excellent design, build quality is on par with European cars, good handling, generous boot space, impressive audio system

Minus: Tight rear seat space, firm suspension, price tag

Verdict

The all-new Mazda 3 has become more of an enthusiast’s car than a product for the masses. Yes, you can get your hands on a full-blown SUV for RM10,000 cheaper, but if driving enjoyment and styling are on top of your priority list, the Mazda 3 may be the car for you. In fact, it is built so well that we can actually consider it to be a more affordable alternative to cars like the BMW 3 Series and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

Looking for a brand new Mazda? Get the best deals
here
.


Mazda CX-30 Launched In Malaysia, From RM143,059

The year is kicking off strong for Mazda Malaysia, as they introduce their CX-30 to the Malaysian market. This compact SUV may be a little confusing in terms of its positioning and naming so let’s boil it down to simple terms – it’s a little larger than a CX-3, but not as large as a CX-5, and it is based on the Mazda 3 platform as opposed to the Mazda 2 platform with the CX-3.

In terms of powertrains, here is where we see a difference. Where the CX-3 is offered with a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated SKYACTIV-G as a singular option, the CX-30 gets both this engine and a 1.8-litre SKYACTIV-D turbodiesel. The former makes 162 hp and 213 Nm of torque, while the new diesel engine produces 114 hp and 270 Nm of torque. All variants are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that delivers power exclusively to the front wheels.

Price of entry for the CX-30 starts at RM 143,059.00 for the CX-30 2.0L, while the next step up sees you forking out RM 165,059 for the CX-30 2.0L High. The range-topping model is the CX-30 1.8L High, which goes for RM 172,943. You can choose from a range of eight colours regardless of variant, with the hero colour being Soul Red, alongside Machine Gray, Snowflake White Pearl, Deep Crystal Blue, Sonic Silver, Polymetal Gray, Titanium Flash, and Jet Black.

The design language for the CX-30 is traditional Mazda SUV chic, with the gorgeous Kodo design language blending with black body cladding for a classy yet no-nonsense look. Granted, very few owners are going to be subjecting their SUVs to off-road abuse, but the aesthetic is one that has quickly been accepted by the market at large.

The same goes for the interior, which mimics that of the current Mazda 3 – soft touch surfaces and a simple yet functional switchgear layout with a modest infotainment screen and instrument cluster. The last few years have been good to Mazda’s model line-up with interiors that easily out-class the competition, and the CX-30 is no different.

Let’s break it down into various trim levels. With the entry level CX-30, you get:

16-inch alloy wheels

LED automatic front headlights

Daytime running lights

Rain sensing wipers

Engine start stop

7-inch colour TFT Multi-Info Display

Active Driving Display

Fabric Seats

Mazda Connect Infotainment System

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

8.8-inch Infotainment Display

Going up one level to the CX-30 High trim levels, you also get:

18-inch alloy wheels

Front-signature illumination

LED daytime running lights

Signature illumination front and rear

Mazda Advance Keyless Entry

Power Tailgate

Front and rear parking sensors

Auto-dimming frameless rear view mirrors

Paddle Shifters

Dual-zone climate control

Rear air-con vents

2-position memory driver’s seat

10-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat

All variants come with a five-year manufacturer backed warranty and five years of free maintenance, inclusive of labour, parts, and lubricants. Both warranty and maintenance package come with a 100,000 kilometre mileage cap over the five years, whichever is exceeded first.

To find great deals on Mazda models, click
here
.


RUMOUR: Volkswagen To End Beetle Production? Say It Isn’t So!

Sorry
Beetle
 lovers, but this rumour has been spreading on the interwebs like wildfire. Various auto sites around the globe have been quoting a report by German website
Spiegel Online
 over a piece that suggests the end of times for the
Volkswagen
 Beetle.
The original report, titled “
Volkswagen stoppt neues Polo-Modell
,” loosely translated to “
Volkswagen Polo stop new model
” quotes Martin Winterkorn, CEO of the Volkswagen Group to say that the brand is quite serious about cost-cutting at the moment, and the Polo three-door and Beetle models may take after the already-axed Volkswagen Eos roadster and be axed from the line-up.
The Polo is said to be kept alive, but only as a five-door version, while models sold in smaller numbers – Polo three-door, Beetle – may have to face the axe in an attempt to save money: deleting the Polo three-door could potentially save Volkswagen nearly 200 million euros a year, leading up to the next-gen Polo due in 2017.
Also, it’s understood that the sale of three-door hatchbacks haven’t had the best of times in Europe, lately.
While all these remain rumours for now (at least until we get some official info from Volkswagen directly), it is measured that The Beetle hasn’t been able to reach the sort of success Volkswagen may have pinned on it.
In any case, we’re all hoping the lovable and iconic bug isn’t axed for all plans. Let’s see.


Honda City Hatchback 1.5V - A Worthy Right Hand To The RS?

In its default form, the Honda City has always been known to feature a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre i-VTEC engine, and such is the case here with the newest version in hatchback form. It’s method of propulsion is now main differentiator
between RS e:HEV and the rest of the range
.

So, how does it stack up against the flagship City Hatchback? There’s no need to speculate, to be honest, as we’ve seen this all play out quite recently with the non-hatchback City. In sedan form, the dichotomy between the 1.5V (along with the 1.5S and 1.5E) has already been explored and left to settle.

For the majority of buyers, the winds of change might not be so welcome with
the prospect of the innovative i-MMD hybrid powertrain
 adding a layer of unwanted complexity alongside its promises of improvements in pretty much every other aspect.

We drove the City Hatchback in 1.5V form (without
SENSING
, which is worth noting) right after getting to grips with the RS. It was a very short 2 laps of the half track around the silky smooth Sepang International Circuit, so both cars won’t exactly have the most gruelling test of road imperfections.

Sitting inside this petrol-only-powered variant felt instantly familiar, so did the whirr from that plucky engine. The cabin feels airy and spacious given its B-segment categorisation, so upgrading Jazz owners won’t be skimping on practicality or versatility - Honda even assured us this would be the case.

We managed to review the City sedan in 1.5V form for our 2021 B-segment shootout where it narrowly lost out on objective points to
the newcomer Almera from Nissan
, but the Honda was clearly the most accomplished all-rounder. Discerning any real difference between that and this Hatchback is nearly impossible given our very brief tryst with it around Sepang, but then again nothing stood out that would be an obvious compromise either.

So far at least, the City Hatchback 1.5V seems just as strong a contender as the sedan. Visibility is great, as is the revised cabin over the previous-generation City with a much-improved mix of materials and dashboard ergonomics.

The ride is expectedly smooth and the response from that atmospheric four-cylinder is rather crisp despite being somewhat masked by the CVT’s infinite ratios. Honda says that the hatch is actually slightly more rigid than the sedan, though that improvement didn’t make itself felt during our (brief) time on track.

It handled the slalom test admirably, though expectedly so, and acceleration along the circuit’s back straight was smooth, drama-free, and brisk as far as B-segment hatchbacks go. Even here, which is the last place the average Honda City driver will expect to find themselves, the car demonstrated its most valuable asset: the ease of its drive.

From getting situated, to pulling away, to actually navigating corners and even tighter maneuvering, there’s something gracefully fluid about how all Citys (Cities)
and Jazzes excel at this
. They’re all easy cars to get in and drive, no matter the situation, and this quality is carried into the new City Hatchback, and especially so with variants fitted with the 1.5-litre engine.

Of course, we’ll need a much longer test period to really reveal anything truly worthwhile about the car, but the (again, brief) time we spent with both this and the RS revealed enough about its newfound place in the Malaysian line-up and how it stacks up as the Jazz’s local successor.


Geneva 2017: Renault Alaskan Pickup European Debut

Alongside Europe’s best-selling crossover,
the Captur
, the Renault Group also rolled out its much anticipated Alaskan 1-tonne pickup truck at the ongoing 2017 Geneva Motor Show.
The Alaskan pickup shares its ladder frame chassis with the
Nissan Navara
 and was initially released at the end of 2016 in Colombia. Much like the rest of pick-up segment double-cabin, four doors, five seats and a generously sized (1-tonne) load bed.
The overall design highlights its Renault DNA – from its wide grille to its C-shaped full-LED headlights. On the inside, the Alaskan shares most of its dashboard architecture and switchgear, right down to the air-cond vents with the Navara.
NP300 Navara 2.5 VL (AT) Interior
Most of the 4WD drivetrain is similar to the Navara as well, the Alaskan can be switched between rear-wheel and 4WD drive and is supplied with a low-ratio drive for extreme conditions. An eLSD (electronic limited slip differential) acting on the four wheels for enhanced safety, and a rear limited slip differential is fitted to facilitate traction in extreme conditions.
The Alaskan will also be supplied with driver aids such as HSA (Hill Start Assist) and HDC (Hill Descent Control). There is no confirmation from Renault on the engines and gearboxes that will be offered – the Navara is offered with a choice of a 2.3-litre diesel engine, a 2.5-litre turbodiesel or a 2.5-litre petrol engine, depending on the market. The engines are mated to either six-speed manuals or seven-speed autos.
The
locally sold NP300 Navara
 is offered with the 2.5-litre ‘YD25DDTi’ turbodiesel engine, matched to the seven-speed auto.
The Renault Alaskan is scheduled to go on sale in Europe at the end of 2017.


LEAKED: Production Version Of Suzuki iM-4 Revealed Through Patent Images

Back in March earlier this year,
Suzuki unveiled its iM-4 Concept
 at the Geneva Motor Show but now, a production variant of the iM-4 appears to be confirmed thanks to these patent images uploaded by
AlVolante.it
.
Styling changes from the
Suzuki
 concept are very much apparent on the production variant, starting with the smaller rims, normal side mirrors, and more conventional door handles. It’s impossible to tell if the funky-looking headlamps from the concept will make their way into the production car from the patent images though.
However, the iM-4 will not be a replacement for the
Suzuki Jimny
 as we originally thought due to the huge difference in wheelbase length – iM-4’s measures 2,438mm whereas the current Jimny’s is 2,250mm. The current
Suzuki Swift
 with its wheelbase of 2,430mm comes close to the iM-4, meaning it could be a more rugged Swift?
The iM-4 will most likely get a new name as well what with Suzuki’s other concept, the
iK-2, receiving the name ‘Baleno’ recently
.


2016 Audi Q7 2.0 TFSI quattro Launched. From RM524,900

Audi Malaysia launched the Q7 2.0 TFSI quattro last week, combining a 2.0 litre four-cylinder, inline petrol engine with the quattro permanent-all wheel drive system available on the
Q7 3.0 TFSI which we reviewed lately.

On the outside, the Audi Q7 2.0 quattro is identical with the 3-litre variant with the exception of having 19-inch wheels, instead of 20” cast aluminium wheels. Besides that, all features remain the same on both this variant and the 3.0.

Powering the new variant is a 2.0 litre TFSI engine which incorporates a 4-cylinder in-line petrol engine with direct fuel injection and exhaust gas turbocharging. And paired to it is an eight-speed tiptronic transmission that develops a maximum output of 252 hp and a maximum torque of 370 Nm between a range of 1,600 and 4,500 rpm.

With this configuration, the Audi Q7 2.0 TFSI quattro accelerates from 0-100km/h in just 7.1 seconds, a full 0.8 seconds faster than the previous generation’s 3.0 TFSI variant of the Audi Q7. Despite its sporty capabilities, the new Audi Q7 2.0 TFSI quattro has a frugal fuel consumption rating of just 7.4l/100 km and a CO2 emissions rating of just 172 g/km.

Weighing 325kg lesser than the previous generation Q7, the all-new Audi Q7 comes with adaptive air suspension as standard, and the Audi drive select feature, where there are six drive modes to choose from -  standard Auto, Dynamic, Efficiency, Comfort, Individual, and an Allroad mode.

What happens in the Allroad mode is that  it prepares the vehicle for mixed terrain by lifting the ride height by 25 mm and Lift/Offroad mode which prepares the SUV to go far off the beaten track by raising the right height to the maximum of 60 mm.

On the other end of the spectrum, there is a convenient loading mode, which lowers the rear axle by 45 mm in order to increase accessibility to the luggage compartment coming in handy whatever you’re loading, be it groceries or furniture.

The new Audi Q7 2.0 TFSI quattro also comes packed with all the electronic and mechanical features that the 3 litre variant enjoys, including a start/stop system with energy recovery, tyre pressure loss indicator, hill descent control, Electronic Stabilisation Control (ESC) which includes Traction Control (ASR), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Electronic Differential Lock (EDL) and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and a total of eight airbags.

The all-new Audi Q7 is offered in seven colour choices: Glacier White, Floret Silver, Argus Brown, Ink Blue, Graphite Grey, Orca Black and a special Daytona Grey with pearl effect. Available for booking at all authorised Audi dealerships immediately, the Audi Q7 2.0 TFSI quattro is CBU (completely built up) and priced from RM 524,900.

This sporty SUV can also be specced with an optional S line package which includes sportier accoutrements on the exterior including the front and rear bumpers, diffusers, 20” cast aluminium wheels amongst other things as well as a more dynamic interior features such as an S line sports steering wheel, sport seats, special inlays and so on for an additional RM 15,000.

Looking for an Audi? Find one now at
Carlist.my


2023 Suzuki Jimny Rhino Edition unveiled - RM174,900, 30 units only

Naza Eastern Motors Sdn Bhd has announced the arrival of the
2023 Suzuki Jimny Rhino Edition
 for the Malaysian market.

Only two years after the Suzuki Jimny's return to the local market, the Rhino Edition aims to 'invigorate the market's interest in Suzuki’s iconic Jimny and provide an exhilarating ownership experience for customers.'

Interested to get one of your very own? Each unit is priced at RM174,900 (on-the-road price excluding insurance) but you need to be quick about it as there are only 30 units available here in Malaysia.

Available in the Pure White Pearl colourway, the 2023 Suzuki Jimny Rhino Edition also comes with the special red/gray/black decals signifying its "Real Offroader" status, dedicated Rhino graphics, as well as the Suzuki Heritage grille.

Other special additions include chrome side mirrors, garnishes on the sides and front bumper, red 'Jimny' mud flaps, Rhino rear spare tyre cover, differential guards, plus rain and wind deflectors for further weather protection.

For the current non-Rhino Suzuki Jimny owners, the Jimny Rhino Kit is available for purchase at RM15,000.


BMW Group and Shell to Develop Easy-to-Use Hydrogen Dispenser

BMW Group’s subsidiary Designworks; a design studio which is well acquainted with designing many things related to the future of mobility, has collaborated with Shell to develop an innovative hydrogen dispenser that will improve the refuelling experience for hydrogen powered vehicles.
Since hydrogen vehicles have proved to be increasingly suitable for everyday use and offer the potential to become an important low carbon transport option for the future, both aforementioned companies feel that the new dispenser design will create a seamless experience for hydrogen drivers on the forecourt and help to encourage the adoption of hydrogen as a transport fuel of the future.
While hydrogen dispenser models on the market at the moment are based on those designed for conventional fuels, the dispenser created by Designworks called ‘Oasis’,  departs from the typical “H” or “L” shaped fuel dispensers presently on the market.
It introduces a new product typology with an “I” shaped, pillar-like design with a friendly appeal, taking inspiration from natural forms.
The Shell dispenser design is clean and remarkably simple with all mechanical parts made invisible. When approaching the dispenser, the user will experience a light guidance system, a generous information screen and an innovative nozzle for refuelling.

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The light concept helps guide the overall flow of cars on the forecourt by providing precise and clearly visible information about the dispenser´s occupancy and the remaining fueling time.
A concise graphical communication concept was also developed for the interaction screen on the front of the dispenser, to provide clear and easily accessible information. It allows users to keep track of their refuelling time and price, request maps to check route details or dive deeper into the world of hydrogen.
For the refuelling nozzle, the design team created a new pick up and mount mechanism, which provides a highly intuitive way of removing and returning the nozzle.
To make the refueling experience even more comfortable, a screen was integrated directly into the nozzle guiding the user through the refueling process step by step.
Beyond offering an innovative refuelling experience, the new dispenser concept, with its clean design language and easy to use functionality, makes a clear statement about the future of hydrogen.
The dispenser concept is all set to be introduced at the Hannover Fair from 24 – 28 April 2017.


All-New BMW X1 Makes Global Debut: Another FWD Model From Bavaria

BMW has just revealed its second-generation 2016
BMW X1
 compact SUV, and with it, full details surrounding the all-new FWD car.
Yes, taking a lesson from its 2 Series Active Tourer and Gran Tourer, the all-new baby
BMW
 Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) is now a front-wheel driver.
Now, there’s a lot to take you through here, so let’s start where the changes are most noticeable, the exterior. As always, you can garnish your X1’s exterior with either one of BMW’s design lines (Sport, xLine, M Sport), but if you strip away those fancies, here’s what’s new underneath.
Exterior Styling:
On top of its similar architecture, the all-new X1 appears also to take a lot of design cues from its 2 Series Active Tourer cousin, and by that, we mean a curvier design language across. The front end is completely new, with a large BMW kidney grille, three-section lower air intake and what BMW calls a “six-eyed” look formed by the twin circular headlights and foglamps below. Full LED headlamps and taillights are optional, by the way.
The silhouette of the vehicle’s side profile features a further slanted roofline, with bold shoulder lines and widely flared wheel arches. Around the rear, the taillights are all new as well, sporting the brand’s new L-shape lighting designs featured in other new BMWs.
Overall, the latest-gen X1 is a much softer design approach that doesn’t compromise toughness, against its predecessor’s sharp, cut look.
Dimensions & Spaciousness:
The all-new X1 has grown in size against its first-gen predecessor we currently have in Malaysia, measuring a total of 4,439mm long (-15mm), 1,821mm wide (+23mm) and 1,598mm tall (+53mm). If you’ll notice, the X1 has reduced its length from before, now featuring shorter overhangs on either side of the vehicle - also a new architecture, which we'll explain later.
The growth in overall width and height is to make for a larger cabin space, which BMW specifically outlines an increase in rear knee room by 37mm – or 66mm if you specify the optional sliding rear seat. Seating positions themselves have been reworked for better outside visibility for all, raising the front seats by 36mm, and the rear seats by 64mm.
The boot has been made to offer a more capable cargo area, with a total of 505 litres of usable space – that’s 85 litres more than before. With the 40:20:40 rear split folding seats completely folded, it opens up a massive 1550 litres of cargo room.
Interior Highlights & Equipment:
On top of the various equipment lines available for the X1 (Advantage, Sport, xLine, M Sport), the SAV’s interior isn’t all that unfamiliar. It’s still familiarly BMW throughout, featuring highlights such as a 6.5-inch free-standing display screen (8.8-inch is optional), an iDrive Touch controller (optional) and a banging audio system by Harmon.
BMW has however introduced more optional equipment for its X1, and this comes in the form of a Dynamic Damper Control system, a BMW Head-Up Display feature (as in all other X models), and its latest Driving Assist Plus system, which bundles safety and efficiency features such as: Active Cruise Control system with Stop & Go function, Lane Departure Warning, Traffic Jam Assistant, Collision Warning and Pedestrian Warning with City Braking function.
FWD Architecture:
This is where it gets interesting for the BMW enthusiast. The all-new X1 is now a front-wheel drive vehicle – even with the xDrive all-wheel drive system specified, this car is going to drive its front wheels predominantly. The clever xDrive system can, of course, send full power to the rear wheels, but only when the system decides that’s where best to send power for optimum grip at the time.
The X1 has adopted a similar architecture to its 2 Series Active Tourer cousin, which we know, has learnt a lot from MINI. So if you’re doubting the X1’s dynamic driving abilities, we know you shouldn’t.
All this also means that if you look under the hood of the X1, you’ll find a transverse-mounted engine, and speaking of which…
Powertrains & Performance:
It’s a full four-cylinder affair at the global debut of the all-new X1, but soon, we understand that BMW’s latest range of three-cylinder mills will join the line.
There are several powertrain options being offered variously in Europe and the US, but here’s a full list of what they are for now, excluding the coming three-pot mills.
X1 sDrive 20i: 192hp, 280Nm
X1 xDrive20i: 192hp, 280Nm
X1 xDrive25i: 231hp, 350Nm
X1 sDrive 18d: 150hp, 330Nm
X1 xDrive20d: 190hp, 400Nm
X1 xDrive 25d: 231hp, 450Nm
Set to join these X1 variants in November will be, as mentioned, BMW’s three cylinder engines, particularly the sDrive18i with 136hp, and the sDrive16d with 116hp, both offering 1.5-litre displacements.
All six 2.0-litre BMW engines on offer for the X1 now are said to feature a 17% fuel consumption improvement over their preceding model variants.
For transmission, an Aisin-sourced eight-speed Steptronic torque converter automatic is what we’ll have to look forward to locally, as always, but foreign markets will also have the option of a six-speed manual transmission.
Watch the all-new BMW X1 in action here:


Legendary Gran Turismo TOM's Racing Toyota Supra Up For Auction

Calling all the gaming kids of the 1990s, do you remember the Castrol-liveried TOM’s Racing
Toyota
 Supra in the PlayStation2 classic that is Gran Turismo 2? Good news! Now you can buy almost the real thing because Toyota, an official partner to Red Nose Day (charity event), has put up a fully kitted and liveried to match Toyota Supra as that found in the video game up for auction.
Handling the auction is the dealer website
Pistonheads
 who were lucky enough to be part of this piece of motoring history.
The Toyota Supra you see before you is a 1996 version but modified with performance components. Its heart, a 3.0-litre in-line six engine now produces 370 hp, sent to the rear wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission.
The wheels are 5x19 Ace 130 alloys wrapped in 235/35x19 tyres. A Veilside bodykit is also installed, including the huge boot spoiler and lowered suspension with Eibach dampers to go with it. Inside, the matching full-leather interior also features a Kenwood audio system that sends its signal to Memphis speakers via a 2,000W class D amplifier.
Wrapping things up is the genuine full Castrol racing livery to make this as close of a replica to the famous Gran Turismo game car.
Unfortunately, the auction ends on 13 March 2015 (UK time) where all proceeds will go to Comic Relief’s projects that help the people in the UK and in Africa.
The nostalgia...


New 2017 Honda Jazz Open For Booking - Hybrid Variant Included

Over the last decade and a half, the Honda Jazz has been one of the most popular entry-level hatchbacks, with over 77,700 units sold. The product has grown a great deal since its simpler hatchback days, evolving in terms of product packaging and features and now in its third generation. Despite still being a fairly fresh product, it's about due for a facelift- and today Honda Malaysia has announced that the New Honda Jazz will be open for bookings at all 90 authorized Honda dealers nationwide.
The new Jazz is expected to hit the market by the second quarter of 2017, but more exciting is the introduction of the Sport Hybrid variant which will be available by the third quarter of 2017. In terms of features and equipment, we can expect the new Jazz to follow that of the new City that was launched just a couple of months ago; things like new grilles, bumper designs, wheels, LED daytime running lights, and Smart Entry and Push Start being standard across the range. But the Sport Hybrid variant in particular is something to look forward to.
For one, Malaysia is the only country outside of Japan to have this Sport Hybrid variant for the Jazz, with its new intelligent Dual-Clutch Drive (i-DCD) Hybrid System. It's a 7-speed unit with an integrated High Power Motor which helps to improve low end torque. The engine is still a 1.5-litre but it's the newer DOHC i-VTEC variant as opposed to the SOHC units in the regular petrol models. With the new i-DCD system, the Jazz Sport Hybrid is capable of cruising in pure electric mode, which is something older Honda hybrid systems couldn't do.
The Integrated Power Unit of this new Jazz Sport Hybrid is also 2 times as powerful and holds 1.5 times more energy than its predecessor, the IMA (Integrated Motor Assist). The result is a combined output of 137 PS, which is a pretty impressive amount for a light car like the Jazz. It's definitely going to be an interesting product to drive, especially with the tweaks the engineers have made to the power steering system for better feel.
The New Jazz Hybrid will be making its official appearance at
Carlist.my MAA Drive, Test & Buy Event
 this weekend (13 th -14 th May 2017) at Setia City Convention Centre (Hall 1 & 2) between 10am to 10pm. Visitors visiting the Honda booth can place their bookings for the New Jazz both Petrol and Sport Hybrid as well as all other Honda models with discounts up to RM12,000 up for grabs. Activities at the event include test drive session for all Honda models, lucky draw sessions, a special Facebook contest to be participated by the visitors of the autoshow, and educational insights into Honda services and Turbo technology. Everyone visiting the Honda booth would also have the opportunity to get their portrait drawn by the special caricature artist and kids can have fun coloring their favorite Honda models.


This is How BMW Indonesia is Delivering Cars During COVID-19 Lockdown

Since human movement and activities have been minimised during the COVID-19 lockdown period, the logistics sector is busier than ever before because people still need things, and things that they are purchasing need to be delivered to them.

But what if you purchase a car? Can the manufacturer deliver it to your doorstep?

Well, apparently BMW Indonesia can, and that's not all. As a safety measure during the lockdown, BMW Indonesia is actually delivering customers’ cars in giant boxes as you can see below.

Instead of having a representative of the company driving the car to the customer, which would require the car to be sanitised once again, this method certainly seems to be a cleaner and safer option.

The images were shared by BMW Indonesia on their official
Twitter
 page to show how they are using this unconventional method of delivering cars in a contactless manner in the name of safety.

It is said that only customers who purchase a car using BMW’s online showroom services will have their car delivered in this cool giant box.

That being said, can we expect BMW Malaysia to use the same method here?


Repco Malaysia - Affordable World-Class Lubricants Now on Shopee Mall

Repco Malaysia made a huge impact during the first-ever
CarTell Track Attack Vol. I
 earlier this month, but who are they and what do they do?

As one of the main sponsors for the CarTell Track Attack event, those who were present that night got to take home thousands of Ringgit worth of
Repco Performance Lubricants
 as they gave away a truckload's worth of goodies and freebies which included full-sized cans of its premium engine oil plus more.

On that note, let's dive in a bit deeper to get to know the brand that is Repco Malaysia (Repco is short for 'Replacement Parts Company') and why their slogan is
"High Performance Lubricant Oil with Proven Quality, Premium Engine Oil with Wallet-Friendly Price."

Supplying world-class lubricants & engine oils since 1976

Repco Malaysia is not the 'new kid on the block' when it comes to the manufacturing of top-quality engine oils and other vital auto fluids -
Repco Performance Lubricants
. In fact, they've been engaged in the wholesale business since 1976, distributing to local retail spare parts stores.

46 years of experience have transformed them into one of the world’s most iconic brands in the automotive lubricants industry and also Malaysia's First Choice Brand for car lubricants and spare parts.

Repco Malaysia strives to provide customers with the lowest possible prices of high-quality selected products and the best services. They ensure that customers may use top-grade performance lubricants and premium parts in their vehicles while keeping them safe on the road.

Its entire range of products is sold on the
Shopee Mall - Repco Malaysia Official Store (
https://shopee.com.my/repcomalaysia.os
)
 where anyone can browse through and purchase some of its best-selling products at different volumes with no hassle. The one that's selling like hotcakes with repeated purchases from customers is the
Repco Reptec 1 Fully Synthetic
 and it's not just here in the country, but also in other markets like China, Cambodia, Laos, Brunei, and several European countries. Its
PAO+Ester
 additive, specially design for continental cars to help the vital components of modern and high-performance engines to stay clean, maximizes engine power, and protected against harmful engine deposits.

What makes it special is of course the
Repco Turbo Diesel Plus Fully Synthetic
 that contains the CK-4 additive - an advanced anti-wear formula that offers a wide variety of benefits to your engine internals such as:

Pushrod wear protection

Oxidation protection

Injector screw wear protection

Filter plugging, sludge, and soot handling protection

Overall wear protection

They were the first ones to introduce
CK-4
 additive in Malaysia, and it’s suitable for all Turbocharged or normally aspirated diesel engines of heavy-duty vehicles (Truck, 4x4 Pickup truck, 4-Wheel car) operating under the most severe conditions whatever the seasons and guarantees exceptional protection against bore polishing.

Other product ranges include ATF oil, Gear oil, Coolant, Grease, Hydraulic oil, Additives, Car care products, and more.

Repco Malaysia is also known for its DOT 3 & DOT 4 brake fluids

Apart from the popular engine lubricant range, Repco Malaysia is also known for its brake fluids. Available in a selection of DOT 3 and DOT 4 formulations, the Repco 500 DOT 4 in particular offers heavy-duty braking performance paired with prolonged component life and loaded with inhibitors to prevent corrosion.

Repco Malaysia is also the main distributor for some of Malaysia's automotive brands that have essentially become household names such as
NGK Spark Plugs, APM Shock Absorbers, Bosch products
 (Wipers, Oil filters, etc), and Osram bulbs as well as the importer of
Gen Sealed Beams
. They also have their own in-house brand for driveshafts, fuel pumps, and plug cables called Autopro.

Quite a high-profile list, eh? To know more, head over to the
Repco Malaysia Official Store on
Shopee Mall

or visit
www.repcomalaysia.com
 for all the information needed for both customers as well as dealers who are interested to sign up as authorised partners. For any general inquiries please contact them at 03-6275 8686.


Say hello to the MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV, Mazda's first rotary-powered car since 2012

Mazda unveiles the MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV, a plug-in hybrid model that uses a rotary engine as a generator.

Remember when we said last November that
Mazda would finally revive the rotary engine?
 Well that time has come as Mazda has just unveiled the Mazda MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV, a plug-in hybrid car that uses a rotary engine as a generator.

Yes yes, it's not what you have come to expect from words such as 'Mazda would revive the rotary engine', but hey, Mazda is just moving on with the times and has found a new purpose for the rotary engine.

Suppose you're still here and intrigued by the rotarty powered car. In that case, the MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV is a series plug-in hybrid that continues to deliver the same experience as the original MX-30, while simultaneously offering owners new ways of using their car as a battery electric vehicle.

The MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV has an 85 km battery electric driving range which is sufficient for a wide range of everyday driving needs, but the addition of the rotary generator enables long distance drives.

Mazda chose to use a rotary engine as a generator system to lever the unique way in which rotary engines can produce the required output with a small power unit.

Mazda developed the new-age rotary engine to work as a generator and has positioned it on the same axel as the high-output motor and a generator in the motor room. Mazda then paired this compact electric power unit with a 17.8 kWh lithium-ion battery (half the size of the original MX-30) and a 50 L gas tank to achieve the unique series plug-in hybrid system.

Since it's a plug-in-hybrid, you can also charge the car via an external source, where an 11kW AC input would juice the battery to full in 50 minutes. There's also fast DC charcging up to 36kW, which would get the battery from 20-80% state of charge in just 25 minutes.

Just like some EVs out there, the MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV can also power up appliances, as it has a 1,500-watt auxiliary power port inside.

For those who think the MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV is quite tame looking, it will be available in a special edition model: “Edition R.”, which features black-based exterior and interior trims with Maroon Rouge Metallic - a remake of the roof colour of Mazda's first passenger vehicle, the Mazda R360 Coupe.

It also includes exclusive design elements such as a rotor-shaped emblem sewn into the floor mats and embossed on the seat headrests.

There's no details yet to when it will be on sale, but it should be one of the most interesting plug-in-hybrids available on sale when it eventually hits the showroom floors.


The MINI Clubman Now Comes in John Cooper Works Flavour

There's a new John Cooper Works model in the MINI stable, and this time it's the Clubman that enjoys the "maximum performance" treatment. It's the largest model to receive it, beating out the Countryman for the title as this new generation is larger in overall stature. As expected, these models come with the full list of available options: LED headlamps, MINI Driving Modes, Park Distance Control, Comfort Access, Radio MINI Visual Boost, multifunction buttons on the steering wheel and cruise control with brake function.
Powering it is the same 2.0-litre turbo motor from the Cooper S, but in a much higher state of tune. How much higher exactly? MINI says 39 hp higher, although these tend to be more conservative figures as MINI's products have always been frighteningly quick. The ALL4 system comes as standard, no doubt to help put the power down effectively. It is intended to be available with a 6-speed manual as standard, although if it come to our shores it will probably be only available with the optional 8-speed automatic.
With this powertrain, the JCW Clubman can hit 100 km/h in just 6.3 seconds from a standstill- making it quicker than a Golf GTI, but not quite as brutal as a Golf R. It comes with that trick Sports Exhaust System and 18-inch lightweight alloy wheels, with the option to add Dynamic Damper Control and 19-inch wheels as well. The John Cooper Works variantt also has some exterior work done, with larger vents, a larger rear spoiler, and air curtains (read: side skirts) for a more aggressive look.
Much like other MINI products, there are a number of optional interior products. The JCW model comes standdard with a 6.5 inch colour screen, but can be upgraded to an 8.8 inch touch screen. There is also an optional Head-Up-DIsplay system that comes loaded with JCW-specific graphics. The sports seats are unique to the JCW unit, finished in Dinamica/fabric and Carbon Black with integrated headrests, matching the leather steering wheel, JCW sill finishers, and anthracite roof liners as well.
As for the rest of the car, it's pretty much the Clubman you know and love. It's got 2 doors on either side, and a pair of cabinet doors at the rear. It;s based off of the same platform as the 2 Series Active Tourer and has plenty of bootspace for your kids' soccer equipment or your family luggage for a road trip out of town. It's the MINI for people who love the MINI values and styling but can't afford to have an extra 2-door hatchback on the side- a one size fits all kind of solution. And now that you can get it with JCW level performance, it's as quick as you need it to be.


UMW Toyota Reverses MPV Price Hike

Following the
Government’s reversal
 of its controversial
duty hike on sub-1.5-litre MPVs
, UMW Toyota Motor has confirmed that all vehicles affected by the ruling will immediately revert to their previous price levels.
On 31 March 2017, the Government suddenly issued Excise Duty Order 2017, which raised excise duty rate for seven-seater MPVs with engine capacities not exceeding 1,500cc from 60 to 65 percent.
Models affected by the ruling were the
Honda BR-V
, Perodua Alza,
Proton Ertiga
,
Toyota Avanza
,
Toyota Rush
, and
Toyota Sienta
.
Following the announcement,
UMW Toyota raised prices of the Avanza, Rush, and Sienta
 effective 10 April. Honda, Perodua, and Proton did not announce any price revisions.
Earlier today, the Malaysian Customs reversed the duty increase with immediate effect, reverting all affected vehicles back to previous levels.
In a statement released to the media, UMWT also confirmed that all orders collected between 10 and 12 April will be based on the current 60 percent excise duty structure.
To recap, prices of the Avanza, Rush, and Sienta are as follows:
Avanza 1.3E MT - RM72,280
Avanza 1.5E AT - RM78,970
Avanza 1.5G AT - RM81,670
Avanza 1.5S AT - RM83,980
Rush 1.5G MT - RM104,910
Rush 1.5G AT - RM106,900
Rush 1.5S AT - RM109,900
Sienta 1.5G - RM92,900
Sienta 1.5V - RM99,900


Mitsubishi Malaysia Ushers In Chinese New Year With Superb Offers

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) has launched a promotional campaign in conjunction with the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations.
The promotion period runs from now till 28th February 2019 and offers discounts on popular models and extended warranty packages on selected models for added peace of mind.
Starting with the Mitsubishi ASX, customers are entitled to an RM8,000 prosperity bonus on both the 2WD and 4WD models, which are priced at RM118,866 and RM133,336 respectively, before discounts.
Customers who register a new
Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0-litre
 or 2.4-litre will enjoy a prosperity bonus of up to RM8,000 as well. The Outlander 2.0-litre is priced at RM137,888 and the Outlander 2.4-litre is priced at RM152,888 before discounts.
The Mitsubishi Triton (2018 Production Year) pickup models are offered with a prosperity bonus of up to RM12,000. Promotions for all Triton variants are as follows:
The first 1,000 customers who place an order for the upcoming
2019 Mitsubishi Triton
 are also entitled to receive an exclusive Thule Subterra luggage set worth RM2,000.
And finally, Mitsubishi customers who service their vehicles at authorised Mitsubishi service centres from 15th January to 15th February 2019 will stand a chance to win an iPhone XS.


Singapore 2019: All-New Toyota RAV4 Launched, From SGD 119k

Toyota Singapore has launched the fifth-generation Toyota RAV4 mid-sized SUV at the ongoing Singapore Motorshow. Following the
global debut
 of the model in March 2018, this is the first time a right-hand drive version of the latest generation model has gone on sale in the larger Australasian region.
Only one variant is offered, priced from SGD 119,888, powered by Toyota’s new-generation Dynamic Force 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine which develops 150 hp and 203 Nm. The engine is coupled to a Direct Shift CVT automatic that distributes power to the front wheels. The RAV4 is claimed to achieve 100 km/h in 10.7 seconds and have a top speed of 185 km/h.
The RAV4 is based on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) 'K platform', which is claimed to drive better thanks to the lower centre of gravity, 57 percent more rigid body shell as well as wider front and rear tracks. Ride comfort is also greatly improved with the adoption of a rear trailing wishbone suspension.
Exterior features on the Singapore market RAV4 include projector LED lamps, 18-inch alloy wheels, and LED combination rear lamps.
On the inside, the RAV4 receives a Smart Entry and Start system, LED ambient lighting, and a 7-inch digital meter on the instrument cluster.
In terms of safety, the RAV4 is equipped as standard with Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), 7-airbags, ABS, Brake Assist and Hill start assist control. Crucially, Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) which includes active safety systems such as dynamic radar cruise control, Lane Departure Alert, and Pre-Collision Warning with Pedestrian Detection comes as standard.


How EV Road Tax In Malaysia Works (In 2021) - A Peek Into Madness

How is EV road tax calculated in Malaysia? How much road tax do you pay for a Porsche Taycan, BMW iX in Malaysia?

Gone are the days of calculating road tax based on pure displacement alone, at least in our country. The way JPJ currently determines how much an EV owner should pay to drive their zero-emissions runabout on our road network is much different and
more confusing, even archaic and intentionally problematic.
.

Nevertheless, let’s attempt to make some sense of the EV road tax structure in Malaysia as it stands in 2021. As the world moves to phase out internal combustion engines from the majority of urban roads, it’s important for governments to establish a clearly defined and fair tax scheme that can pay for the upkeep of infrastructure while also incentivising the adoption of electric vehicles. That's pretty obvious.

Aside from the pioneering Nissan Leaf, over the past year we have seen multiple high-profile EVs such as the
Porsche Taycan
 (from RM7,504 per year in road tax) and, most recently, the
BMW iX
 (from RM3,063 per year in road tax), make their local debuts. However, due to our country’s road tax structure calculations being based on power output, buyers might have been
shocked
 to find out
how much they would need to fork out
 each year to keep their new environmentally-conscious green vehicles on the road, especially if they aren't slow - introductory road tax discounts notwithstanding.

Besides the total rate being dependent on power output, which you can equate to the ‘engine displacement’ used to determine road tax in internal combustion cars, the second thing to understand about EV road tax is how there are different base and progressive rates depending on the type of vehicle.

Kilo-Whatt?

The third pillar to grasp is the use of kilowatts (kW) as a unit of measure for power instead of the far more familiar horsepower (hp) or its German equivalent PS (Pferdestärke).

We understand using SI units to denote power is more uniform and more widely used in the science and engineering world, but it just seems like another factor of needless complexity since:

It’s just a matter of simple calculation (1kW = 1.341hp), which most people will do.

Even EV automakers like Tesla don’t use kW to market their cars - Australia is the exception, they use kW for every car.

Getting further into the weeds, vehicle body style has now become a factor in rate calculation as different rates are used exclusively for electric saloon cars, for some reason.

Pertaining to literally every other passenger car besides a typical 3-box saloon, which is also up to interpretation, JPJ has decided to place them in an 'other' or
'dan lain-lain’
 category for which a different base and progressive rate applies. Clearly, our easy comprehension wasn’t a concern when this mess was devised.

Add-Add-Add Maths

To keep things a little more simplified at first, let’s assume you are looking to buy a saloon car, an electric one, and privately registered. Four doors, up to five seats, a boot in the back, and a non-engine upfront. Since it has a category all to itself, this must be the format that most conforms to the government’s definition of
a typical EV
.

Here, we come to the first fork in the road: a hard dividing line between cars
under or over 80kW (107.3hp)
. If your EV has an output below 80kW, you’ll pay a fixed price:

50kW and under -
RM20

50kW - 60kW -
RM44

60kW - 70kW -
RM56

70kW - 80kW -
RM72

If your EV saloon’s motors produces more than 80kW, which is quite likely, then things are more complicated. You’ll be paying a base rate as well as a certain amount for every 0.05kW over the power bracket’s starting value. Let’s tabulate this:

EV (saloon body style), rated power above 80kW

Power Bracket

Base Rate

Progressive Rate (per 0.05kW)

80kW - 90kW

RM 160

RM 0.32

90kW - 100kW

RM 224

RM 0.25

100kW - 125kW

RM 274

RM 0.50

125kW - 150kW

RM 524

RM 1.00

150kW and above

RM 1,024

RM 1.35

For example, with the above values in mind, if your
EV saloon has an rated output of 105kW (141hp)
, you be paying a base rate of RM274 annually since it falls into the 100-125kW bracket. With the RM0.50 per 0.05kW (or RM10 per additional kW over 100kW) progressive charges coming to RM50, it takes the
total payable annual road tax to RM324
.

Lain-Lain

For EVs that don’t fit the mould of saloon car, which we assume would include everything from hatchbacks, pick-ups, liftbacks, wagons, coupes, convertibles,
crossovers, and SUVs
, there’s a different set of fixed and progressive rates -
you know, just to screw with you
.....

50kW and under -
RM20

50kW - 60kW -
RM42.50

60kW - 70kW -
RM50

70kW - 80kW -
RM60

Renault Twizy and Zoe owners rejoice!

Here, at least they've kept the framework, opting to set the dividing line at 80kW with those below only being burdened with a fixed annual rate while those above it requiring to pay an additional progressive rate over a base rate.

EV (non-saloon body style), rated power above 80kW

Power Bracket

Base Rate

Progressive Rate (per 0.05kW)

80kW - 90kW

RM 165

RM 0.17

90kW - 100kW

RM 199

RM 0.22

100kW - 125kW

RM 243

RM 0.44

125kW - 150kW

RM 463

RM 0.88

150kW and above

RM 903

RM 1.20

Intentionally Problematic?

First of all, it’s clear to see that electric saloons are being singled out and taxed significantly higher than literally every other body style, especially if power output exceeds 80kW - which it will. Perhaps this focus on saloon cars stems from the desire to exploit the premium EV market made up of cars like the
Tesla Model S
 and competitors like the Porsche Taycan and
Audi e-tron GT
.

Secondly, it’s not hard to see the immediate flaw in taxing EVs this way - based on their power output - as it not only disincentivises buyers outright by oftentimes resulting in high profile EVs costing more in road tax than their ICE-powered counterparts, but punishes the fact that electric motor output is generally higher than petrol and diesel cars to maintain a practical power-to-weight ratio.

Even
the humble Nissan Leaf
 produces 110kW (148hp) from a single e-motor driving its front wheels. Given it’s a hatchback, the Leaf's base road tax would cost
RM243 per year plus another RM88
 in progressive charges, bringing its
total to RM331
.

Finding an EV that is large and practical enough to be a main vehicle but has a low enough power output to avoid progressive road tax charges will impossible.

The seemingly arbitrary rate values and road tax structure for EVs are clearly borne of either ignorance or short-term greed but underscores a reluctance to
encourage the adoption
 of post-combustion drivetrains. Rather than encouraging buyers, it chooses to be prohibitive.

The overwhelming majority EVs today, even if the full complement of globally available models were somehow also available in Malaysia right now, will not escape these ridiculous progressive charges.

As is the trend with all vehicles, every subsequent model will also likely be more powerful than the one that came before, making Malaysia’s EV road tax policy even more untenable with each model year update. If left unchanged, annual road tax renewal costs will increase exponentially. This is a problem.


PEKEMA: Reconsider Abolishing Open APs, Article 153 Covers Rights To Open APs

The Malaysian Association of Malay Vehicle Importers and Traders (PEKEMA) has urged the government to reconsider any move to abolish Open APs (Approved Permits), permits given out to Bumiputera parallel importers of reconditioned cars.
PEKEMA President Datuk Zainuddin Abdul Rahman, who met the Council of Eminent Persons yesterday to discuss the matter, said that it is important for consumers to be given the choice of purchasing reconditioned cars, as it keeps prices of officially imported cars in check.
“With Open APs, we can control the prices of new vehicles. They (authorized importers) can’t increase prices as they wish as they need to maintain their competitiveness against us parallel importers,” said Datuk Zainuddin.
At the same time, Datuk Zainuddin acknowledged that there are weakness in the existing system, as some recipients of Open APs are not involved in the business, and merely re-sell the APs to other dealers.
“We cannot deny that there are some AP holders who are not in the business, we will leave it to the government on best course of action to address this,” he said.
He also called for the government to abolish the current RM10,000 levy charged to every Open AP.
“There are about 800 types of APs in Malaysia and only an open AP (used by car traders) is charged such a high fee. And the question is for the open AP, why does it have to be paid?
“The previous government promised 40 per cent of the collection will be channelled back to Pekema for the use of our members to upgrade exhibition centre and as a capital.
“In fact, the 40 per cent (collection) will be used to help finance Bumiputera entrepreneurs who want to venture into the automotive business and the remaining 20 per cent to the Malaysia Automotive Institute (MAI).
“However, this is not the case as only less than one per cent of the collection was contributed to Pekema members, while the rest goes to MAI,” said Datuk Zainuddin.
He also added that the giving out of Open APs is protected by Article 153 of the Federal Constitution, which grants special rights and privileges to Bumiputeras.
“There’s no such thing as abolishing APs because this comes under Article 153 for Bumiputeras. It’s not easy for the government to abolish APs just like that,” he said.
What Is An AP?
Approved Permit or AP, is an import-control mechanism based on the Malaysian Customs Act 1967. Items that fall under the list of controlled imports include cars, motorcycle helmets and equipment to manufacture drugs and optical discs. Depending on the item, APs are issued either by the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) or other relevant government bodies.
For cars, there are two types of APs issued by MITI: Franchise APs that are given out for free to franchise holders of car brands registered with MITI; and Open APs that are sold to parallel importers at RM10,000 a piece to import cars of any brand.
The total number of APs issued each year is capped at 10 per cent of the number of locally-assembled cars in the preceding year. Sixty per cent of APs are given to Bumiputera Open AP holders while the remaining 40 per cent are given to franchise holders, the majority of which are Bumiputera-owned.
The actual number of Open APs given out each year however is unclear as the information is not made public.
Under the 2009 National Automotive Policy, Open AP was supposed to be terminated by 31 December 2015 while Franchise AP was to be terminated by 31 December 2020, but MITI later back-tracked on the policy.


New 2015 Toyota Camry, Camry Hybrid Launched In Thailand, From RM150k

The new, facelifted 2015
Toyota Camry
 and
Camry
 Hybrid has just been launched in Thailand in a total of six variants, with prices set at (RM conversions are direct, not including local taxes etc.):
2.5L Hybrid Premium: 1,899,000 Baht (RM215,600)
2.5L Hybrid Navigator: 1,729,000 Baht (RM196,500)
2.5L Hybrid CD: 1,679,000 Baht (RM190,600)
2.5G 1,569,000 Baht (RM178,300)
2.0G Extremo: 1,429,000 Baht (RM162,280)
2.0G: 1,319,000 Baht (RM149,800)
Locally, UMW Toyota Motor, the official distributor of Toyota vehicles in Malaysia, will soon have its own launch event to unveil the car to Malaysians in its own variants and prices, but until then, here’s a quick look at what our neighbours get first.
2.0-litre Camry: No more four-speed + new engines for Thailand
The new Camry adopts a whole new, more aggressive exterior designs, but more interestingly, it is confirmed now that the Thai market, where we get our CKD kits from, will get the all-new 2.0-litre VVT-iW four-cylinder engine that replaces the outgoing 2.0-litre VVT-i we have still.
The additional ‘W’ in the engine’s name simply stands for ‘Wide,’ which refers to its ability to expand the intake valves operating angle where necessary. The engine is then able to switch between the conventional Otto cycle operation to an Atkinson cycle to best maximise performance and fuel efficiency.
Also different for the Thai-market Camry is that the 2.0-litre mill (codenamed 6AR-FE) is no longer paired with a four-speed Super ECT transmission, in favour of a six-speed auto with sequential shifter.
Performance figures for the Thai 2.0 variants are now 167PS and 199Nm of torque, against the previous 148PS and 190Nm of torque. However, while there will be an increase in power when our new Camry 2.0 gets here, figures aren’t for certain identical, given the different grades of fuel offered in Thailand to here in Malaysia.
Consumption benefits of the all-new 2.0-litre VVT-iW and its new six-speed auto transmission translate to a claimed 13% increase in fuel efficiency.
2.5-litre Camry, Camry Hybrid
Thailand will also be offered with the Camry’s 2.5-litre engine in its higher-spec variants, and also in the range-topping hybrid versions of the car: the 2.5 Hybrid Premium and Navigator.
While the regular 2.5-litre models plainly carry over its existing powertrain (2AR-FE), the hybrid model features a different tune of the engine in light of the newfound hybrid power (2AR-FXE VVT-i).
The 2.5-litre petrol engine alone makes 21PS (160PS) and 21Nm (210Nm) less than the regular Camry versions, but makes up for it with an additional 105kW electric motor which delivers 270Nm of torque. The traction battery is a conventional nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) type.
Drive is sent to the front wheels via an E-CVT transmission, while drivers will be able to choose from two drive modes: ECO and EV (full electric) mode.
What else is new?
Well, you’ve seen the new looks, and we’ve told you all about the new Camry’s powertrain developments, but Toyota hasn’t stopped there in refining its new D-segment sedan.
Of course, more accurate specifications relative to our market will be unveiled soon enough (when UMWT decides), but a few other highlights of the car we’re seeing in Thailand now worth mentioning include that there will be:
Two new colour options (Grayish Blue Mica Metallic, Dark Brown Mica Metallic)
A wireless charger (Qi Charger)
Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Blind Spot Monitor
Lane Departure Warning
A pre-crash warning system (sounds alarm when a collision is imminent)
Coming to Malaysia? When?
Bear in mind however that these are all specifications of the Toyota Camry that will be sold in Thailand, beginning today. While we do get our CKD kits are prepared, we can’t say for sure what kind of specifications our car will feature. This report is just a reference to what has come to Thailand, and may or may not make their way to Malaysia.
It’s a given that the Camry will be launched here this year, and we also understand that the Camry Hybrid too will be joining the line-up. When? That’s anyone’s guess for the moment: all we can tell you is that you can count on the Camry Hybrid being a lot more expensive than the range-topping non-hybrid model. Does RM200k or more tempt you?
Want more details? Here's a closer look at the inside and outside of the Toyota Camry:
*Source:
Autospinn


Limited Edition Mitsubishi Triton Phantom – 200 Units Only

Black is cool, at least that’s the image that the limited edition Mitsubishi Triton Phantom is trying to project. Limited to just 200 units, the RM119,200 Triton Phantom is about RM6,000 pricier than the Triton Adventure VGT (RM113,600). Prices quoted are on the road with insurance.
On top of what you get from the Thailand-made Triton Adventure VGT, the additional RM6k buys you a set of all-black accessories – 17-inch matte black alloy wheels, matte black grille, sports bar with full box and matte black rear bumper.
The truck has also been upgraded with a front bumper extender and a pair of ‘Phatom’ body stickers and decals complete the exterior makeover.
Inside, the cabin has been upgraded with a set of exclusive Phantom black leather seats.
On top of the standard 3-year/100,000 km warranty, the Triton Phantom comes with 2 Years of Free Maintenance with an option of either RM2, 000 in cash rebate or free labour with RM4,000 in cash rebate.
Related link:
Leona Chin Roleplays As Mitsubishi Sales Person - Teases Mitsubishi Triton Phantom Edition


Jaguar Land Rover Launches Refreshed 2022 F-PACE - From RM599k

Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia unveils the 2022 Jaguar F-PACE - the SUV sports a slick new exterior and sophisticated yet plush interior features.

Jaguar's luxury performance sports utility vehicle (SUV)
has been refreshed
, combining high-performance with style and functionality.

Exterior

The F-PACE now features a more sculpted bonnet as well as a super-slim, all-LED quad headlights, which give the F-PACE an even bolder appearance. The new headlight design is 10mm slimmer than before and features Jaguar's ‘Double J’ Daytime Running Light (DRL), providing greater visual width to enhance its stance.

At the rear, the new tailgate also accentuates the visual width of the vehicle, and the new all-LED rear lights with sculpted lenses are inspired by the fully electric I-PACE and feature Jaguar’s chicane graphic, showcasing the modernity of the overall design.

Interior

On the inside, the new cockpit design is bolder and features a greater focus on the driver. The interior also now feels more spacious, thanks to the contrasting use of colour where the interior is in one tone to enhance the sense of space.

The new Drive Selector epitomises Jaguar’s approach to contemporary controls. The soft upper trim wraps around the ‘palm grip’ and proudly features a ‘cricket-ball’ stitch, inspired by iconic British craftsmanship. Below, the precision-engineered metal cradle is sculpted for added tactility and an engaging quality feel.

The five-seater cabin features not only well-crafted leather upholstery but also practicality, courtesy of its 40:20:40 configuration that allows each seat to be folded completely or individually to accommodate occupants and bulky belongings.

Infotainment system

To complement the practicality of the SUV, the 2022 Jaguar F-PACE has a centrally mounted intuitive 11.4-inch curved-glass HD touchscreen that operates the new Pivi Pro infotainment system, which provides greater clarity than ever before.

The intuitive system allows the driver to carry out 90% of common tasks within two taps from the home screen thanks to its simplified menu structure. Engineered around a smartphone-like interface, it features an intuitive touchscreen that allows drivers to go directly to what is needed.

The infotainment system can now wirelessly connect to smartphones for occupants to experience the convenience of Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Wireless device charging is also available for seamless connectivity.

Active Road Noise Cancellation technology

The F-PACE now comes with an in-built segment-first Active Road Noise Cancellation technology which monitors and eliminates external noises. The technology constantly monitors vibrations from the road surface and calculates the opposite phase sound wave needed to remove the noise heard by occupants. This means quieter noise levels within the cabin and improved refinement that helps to reduce fatigue, commonly associated with prolonged exposure to low-frequency sound.

Driving modes

Further adding to its usability is the integrated Jaguar Drive Control technology, which features Comfort, Eco, Rain-Ice-Snow, and Dynamic modes that can be selected manually to meet various road conditions. In tandem, the Configurable Dynamics onboard enables the selection of engine response, gearbox shift points, and steering to suit personal preference.

Driver Assistance Systems

Driver assistance technologies in the 2022 F-PACE include:

Driver condition monitor

Emergency braking

Lane keep assist

Cruise control and speed limiter.

Engine

The new Jaguar F-PACE comes only in the 250PS R-Dynamic variant. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder 250PS Ingenium petrol engine produces 365Nm of torque, delivering acceleration from zero to 100km/h in 7.3 seconds.

Price and availability

Priced from RM598,800 (with 10% SST and excluding Road Tax, Registration and Insurance), the Jaguar F-PACE was well received and fully booked at the pre-launch phase. With the launch of the SUV, it is now available for order once again.


Contra Flow To Be Activated On The NKVE From 24 To 26 March 2015

Projek Lebuhraya Usahasama Berhad (PLUS) will be activating a contra flow on the New Klang Valley Expressway (NKVE) at KM 24.3 to KM 25.4 between the Jalan Duta toll plaza and Bukit Lanjan. The contra flow will take place from 24 March (Tuesday) to 26 March 2015 (Thursday) from 10:00 pm to 5:00 am.
The purpose of the contra flow is to facilitate beam launching works at the bridge across Lebuhraya Damansara Puchong (LDP).
Motorists are advised to follow all traffic signage and instructions given by PLUS personnel at the area and for further details, they can contact PLUSLine at 1800-88-0000.