Review: 2017 Porsche 718 Cayman – Middling Balance

In the early years, badge snobs often derided the Boxster and Cayman as cars for those 'who can’t afford a 911'. Today, with two decades of history under its belt and having undergone three renewals, Porsche’s entry-level sports cars have carved a niche of its own and built a reputation of being fun and incisive sports cars.
By placing the engine in the middle and putting seats only for two, Porsche ensured that the Boxster/Cayman twins were able to forge their own identities and successfully shed their unflattering ’911-lite’ labels.
The Boxster/Cayman family entered its third-generation in 2012, but its model cycle was truncated in 2016 as Porsche bowed to the trend of engine downsizing. The range of six-cylinder engines got phased out and replaced, predictably, with turbocharged four-pots.
A new name also followed, both the Boxster and
Cayman
 now
carry the 718 designation
, paying tribute to Porsche’s mid-engined racer that competed in Le Mans from the late 1950s to the early 1960s.
Specifications:
Price: RM530,000
Engine: 2.0-litre, Four-Cylinder Boxer, Turbocharged Petrol
Power: 300 hp @ 6,500 rpm
Torque: 380 Nm @ 1,950 – 4,500 rpm
Transmission: 7-speed dual clutch automatic, RWD
Safety: 6 airbags, Electronic stability control,
Origin: Fully-imported from Germany
Overview
Whether it is the Boxster or Cayman, both models come with two powertrain choices. As tested, the base
718 Cayman
, along with the
718 Boxster
, is powered by a 2.0-litre fixed vane turbocharged four-cylinder boxer putting out 300 hp and 380 Nm.
Compared to the preceding Cayman’s 2.7-litre NA flat-six, the new unit puts out 25 hp and 90 Nm more whilst returning claimed consumption figures of 6.9 – 7.4 litres/100km.
Higher up, the S models replace their 3.4-litre engine with a 2.5-litre powerplant boosted by variable geometry turbocharging to make 350 hp and 420 Nm. Fuel consumption of the S engine is rated at 7.3 – 8.1 litres/100km.
Whatever the selection, however, the engine sits amidships ahead of the rear wheels, but just behind the driver, sending power astern via a 7-speed dual clutch transmission.
Exterior
In true Porsche fashion, the 718 Cayman retains its predecessor’s familiar silhouette, but has its details thoroughly reworked for a fresher appearance. The overall design is clean in its execution and tastefully free of clutter. The C-shaped character lines running along the door around the engine air intake vents are the only creases of note on the sheet metal.
As standard, the 718 Cayman is specified with xenon headlamps, though our test car is upgraded with the optional four-point LED lights worth a cool RM4,800. Astern, revised clear lens tail lights show off more intricate details than before, exposing its lighting elements in a fashion reminiscent of a spaceship’s exhaust when fully illuminated.
Simultaneously optimizing high- and low-speed aerodynamics, an active rear wing self-deploys at speeds above 120 km/h.
Consequence of its mid-engine configuration, the Cayman does not have much of a boot – the tailgate pops up to reveal only 275 litres of usable cargo space. That being said, a further 150 litres is available for use under the bonnet up front.
Interior
The top piece has been remoulded, but the cockpit-inspired dashboard is quite obviously carried over from the predecessor. Overall build quality maintains Porsche’s typical high standards with fit and finish generally feeling faultless. Switchgear, despite their distinctive appearance, exude the distinctive tactile feel of Volkswagen Group vehicles, which is to say they click with satisfying solidity.
Practicality is unsurprisingly compromised, but this day and age, we feel all centre consoles should at least have a tray on which to drop your mobile devices within easy reach. As things stand, your phone goes either into the slim door pocket or the lidded box further aft – it’s a shallow compartment, but big enough to swallow a couple of phones at one go, if not exactly natural to reach in its position.
Driving Experience
Porsche’s decision to implement a turbocharged four-cylinder powerplant to replace the predecessor’s six-cylinder unit was greeted with no small degree of concern by enthusiasts, who feared that the natural balance that the Cayman was renowned for would be upset by the brutal power delivery of forced induction.
Happily however, the suspicions have turned out to be unfounded, the 2.0-litre turbo engine responds to accelerator inputs with the linearity and immediacy of a naturally-aspirated unit, thereby preserving its adjustability on the throttle. That it lacks the punchy mid-range muscular feel of most European turbocharged DI engines in the market today is inconsequential in light of the car’s many other talents.
The only aspect that we truly regret is the engine’s lack of overall charm. It gets about its business with competency, but does not seem to derive any enjoyment out of it. You step on it, it goes fast and without complaints, but neither does it invite you to push harder for more fun. It is a flat engine in more than just its configuration.
What has not changed from the previous Cayman to the new 718 is the sweet mid-engined balance of its chassis. With the biggest bulk of mass nestled between its two axles, the 718 turns corners feeling as if as it’s pivoting around the driver. The electric power steering system also feels spot on with regards to its tuning – just right in its weightage; accurate yet linear in its response.
The 718’s delectable combination of a sublime chassis setup with finely-tuned controls – steering, throttle, and brake – provides a car that inspires confidence in the driver and is easy to drive in a variety of conditions. It will potter around town without fuss, and it will blaze the trails of Ulu Yam just as easily and as rapid as you’d like.
Comfort & Refinement
The 718 Cayman is another example that ride comfort and dynamic sharpness need not be mutually exclusive qualities. The suspension rates err on the side of firmness, but have just enough pliancy and travel in them to not feel brittle. It is a setup that many of us can live with on a day-to-day basis fairly easily.
Also deserving of praise is the low-speed behaviour of the 7-speed PDK dual clutch transmission. It creeps along smoothly in traffic jams and, surprisingly, with far greater finesse than the newer 8-speed unit tested recently in the
Panamera 4S
.
For those with no particular need for rear seats or a big boot, the 718 Cayman makes a decent case as a daily driver.
Conclusion
Right from the start, the Boxster and Cayman were never made to be as powerful as you’d expect Porsche can make them to be. The official marketing speak spins this by focusing on handling balance as the major selling point of these cars and so they have been noted for their prowess in this area. The cynics would add that this is a deliberate ploy to keep them from encroaching into the 911’s sacred territory.
These factors in mind, Porsche’s decision to shrink the 718’s engines from the outgoing range of six-pots to the usual 2.0-litre four-cylinder sizing should really not be an issue to start with. The melody and character of predecessor’s flat-six will undoubtedly be missed, but where performance and dynamics are concerned, there is little doubt that the replacements carry the torch on just as proudly.
So, like many new cars rolling out of Europe, the 718 trades off a little character and song to meet tightening emission standards, but what has not changed is that it still is a finely-balanced well-honed machine that is just as capable of putting a smile on your face as it is to serve your more mundane needs. Simply put, the core competencies on which this car and its predecessors have traded on for two decades remain meticulously preserved.


All-new Kia Sportage Launched in Malaysia; Prices from RM122k

Kia’s venerable mid-size crossover enters its fourth generation with the official launch of the 2016 Kia Sportage. Alongside its larger sibling, the
Sorento
, that was also launched on the same trot, the Sportage now has the unenviable task of going up against the likes of the
Mazda CX-5
,
Honda CR-V
 and
Hyundai Tucson
.
Two variants are introduced at the outset priced as follows:
2.0 2WD KX at RM121,888
2.0 2WD GT at RM141,888
Motion is supplied by the firm's Nu series 2.0-litre port-injected and naturally aspirated engine outputting 155PS
 at 6,200rpm and 192
Nm of torque at 4,0
00rpm. Power is put on the road through a six-speed conventional auto powering only the front wheels. Depending on demand, Kia is open to the possibility of introducing more powerful variants and even the option of all-wheel drive at a later date.
T
he standard KX spec Sportage boasts the following key equipment:
Halogen projector headlamps, manual leveling adjustment
Bulb-type illumination - daytime running lights, front fog lamps, third brake light
Fender-mounted side signal lights
Rear fog lights - LED
Side mirror - electric adjustment
3.5" TFT mono LCD trip computer
Multimedia infotainment - Radio, MP3, MP4, Bluetooth, USB, AUX
Reverse camera
Fabric upholstery
Rear air-con vents
Tilt & telescopic steering - audio controls, Bluetooth handsfree
6 airbags
Reverse sensor
ISOFIX
ABS, EBD
Electronic Stability Control
The RM20k-costlier Premium model, meanwhile, adds the following equipment:
HID headlamps, auto leveling
LED illumination - daytime running lights, front fog lamps, third brake light
Side mirror - electric adjustment, electric folding, integrated signal lights
4.2" TFT Colour LCD trip computer display
Electro-chromic rear view mirror
Dual-zone climate control
Leather upholstery
8-way electric adjustment - both front seats
2-way lumbar support - driver seat only
Smart keyless entry, engine start/stop button
Front and rear parking sensors
The all-new Kia Sportage is available in five colours and comes with a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty.


This Mitsubishi Mirage Evo Is Ready To Rally

Team Ralliart New Zealand has put up the first pictures of its newly minted
Mirage
 Evolution - a rugged-up, rally version of the
Mitsubishi
 hatchback that will debut next weekend’s stage of the New Zealand Rally Championship.

Ever wondered what a Mirage would look like if it were given the ‘
Evo
’ treatment? While it does maintain the base car’s compact dimensions the bigger wheels, wide arches, added wings, intakes and air ducts certainly don’t lack in aggression.

And then there’s the addition of that large intercooler barely contained behind the car’s gaping mouth. We do speculate on what lies under the hood and how much power its pumping out to the four wheels. While that remains a mystery. Our guess is that it will be very turbocharged.

The car will be piloted by native New Zealand driver Chris West.


Aftermarket Intake: More Power or More Problems? (Part 1)

An air intake system is a bit of hardware in the engine bay which allows oxygen to reach the engine. Oxygen is a critical ingredient in the engine combustion process, so air intakes must be appropriately engineered so that engines can produce the sweet horsepower that we all crave for.

It has come to our attention that people love to fiddle around with intakes so that they can obtain more power from the engine. The question is, will you actually gain more power with aftermarket intakes? Or are you just wasting all your precious money and damaging your engine instead?

Stock air intakes are restrictive because it has to think of long-life engine health as well as engine bay aesthetics. It is usually restrictive due to the pipe routing as well as the air filter. Aftermarket intakes usually do give the engine more air, but it won't necessarily produce more power or have your engine's health in mind.

Simple logic will tell you that if there is more air in the engine, the more power it will produce. This is however, like we said, simple logic, because creating more power is not all down to getting more air into the engine. To produce more energy from more air, you would also need to increase the amount of fuel the engine receives and even then who you would still need the right spark amount to see an increase.

So to get more power from more air, you must also consider the injectors as well as the engine management system, and only then will an engine produce more power. If these components are not working in perfect harmony, your engine will most likely be producing less power than it originally came with.

With that in mind do you still think by simply installing an aftermarket intake your engine will produce more power? Or is it going to cost you more money than originally thought to make more power? Something to ponder...

If you're prepared to go the full nine yards and spend more money on the other bits to complete the power-up, then wait for our second part of aftermarket intakes, as we take a look at what type of aftermarket bits gets more oxygen into your engine.


2017 Toyota C-HR Is Now Japan’s Best-Selling Car – Check It Out At At This Weekend’s DRIVE

For the first time in recent years, a SUV is now Japan’s best-selling car. According to data tabulated by the Japan Automobile Dealers Association, in April 2017, Toyota C-HR crossover had in April, overtaken the Toyota Prius and Nissan Note to become Japan’s best-selling car.
Launched in Japan in December 2016, sales of the C-HR have improved progressively over the last four months. In April, Toyota sold 13,168 units of the C-HR, giving it a strong lead over second-placed Toyota Prius (9.920 units) and Nissan Note (9.263 units).
In Japan, the C-HR is offered with either a 1.2-litre 8NR-FTS turbocharged petrol engine that’s shared with the European/Japanese market Yaris or a 1.8-litre petrol-electric 2ZR-FXE hybrid engine from the Prius. The turbocharged variant is only available as an all-wheel drive while the hybrid is a front-wheel drive.
Measuring 4,360 mm long, 1,795 mm wide and 1,565 mm tall with a 2,640 mm wheelbase, the C-HR is slightly longer, wider, with a lower roofline than the its closest competitor, the Honda HR-V (4,294 mm long, 1,772 mm wide, 1,605 mm tall, 2,610 mm wheelbase).
Having been previewed in Indonesia and Thailand, the C-HR certainly coming to Malaysia, but not so soon, as the model is not expected to be launched in Malaysia until 2018, possibly imported from Thailand.
The
C-HR will be previewed
 for the first time in Malaysia (albeit the display model is a slightly different Australian specifications model) at this weekend’s Carlist.my MAA DRIVE Test and Buy event at the Setia City Convention Centre in Setia Alam, Shah Alam, Selangor.
Members of public welcomed to visit Toyota’s booth, where the Toyota Gazoo Racing Vios will also put out on display.
Happening from 10am to 10pm on May-13 and May-14, the event invites members of the public shop, test drive and compare more than 50 models from 15 different car brands in one location. Register your interest here to win a Touch ‘N Go card with RM30 preloaded value. On top of that, the first 400 visitors to register and complete a test drive will receive a Caltex petrol voucher worth RM30.


The 2015 Brazilian F1 Grand Prix - By Alex Yoong

I was commentating for Fox Sports on the Brazilian Grand Prix that took place on Sunday. While the championship is now over with Lewis Hamilton wining from his teammate, there were a few points I thought worth pointing out from the race. So here are four things we learned from the Brazilian Grand Prix.
Mercedes Still Pushing
On Friday we saw Mercedes debut an S duct in testing, and in the process showed that they are still pushing hard on development not only for this year but also for next as this is quite a big change and will probably be seen on the 2016 car as well. The Champions clearly know that the worse thing they could do is to rest on their laurels and the best way to prevent that is to keep on doing what they do best – which is to keep on pushing.
Rosberg Is Back To His Best
In Brazil we saw Nico Rosberg win his second consecutive race as well as his fifth pole position in a row. It’s the very best thing he could have done since losing this year’s world title. He really needed to show his team and the world that he deserved to have equal status within the Mercedes-AMG Petronas after being beaten by his teammate so convincingly this year. He also secured second in the title battle from Sebastian Vettel, but I’m sure he will have taken more satisfaction from beating his teammate than finishing best of the rest in this year’s championship.
Red Bull And Their Renault Power Units Struggling Still
Daniel Ricciardo tried Renault’s latest upgraded engine that had used 11 of the 12 available development tokens for the year. However the team was very underwhelmed as the new engine made virtually no difference. There may be more potential to develop the power unit further down the line but after two years of very little improvement compared to their rivals, it does look like they won’t be fixing their problems any time soon. The biggest concern is that there seems to be very little confidence that things will be any different in 2016. One of the stories over the weekend was whether Red Bull could repair their relationship enough to resume their partnership? On the latest evidence, wouldn’t it be better to perhaps take the year old Ferrari engines that were offered instead?
Max Verstappen Shows More Evidence That He’s The Real Deal
Verstappen may have finished tenth (later promoted to ninth after Massa’s disqualification) but he proved again that he is a great racer with another two impressive overtaking moves – one around Perez and the other on Nasr. While a couple of moves certainly do not make a career, it’s the steady progress Verstappen keeps making while pulling off audacious overtaking that is quietly making all of us believe he will be as good as Senna or Schumacher one day.


Subaru’s Sedan Version Of Its Impreza 5-Door Concept Makes LA Auto Show Debut. Shocker!

No punches pulled here. A little over a week ago, we noticed that
Subaru
’s teaser for its 2015 LA Auto Show surprise was sedan version of the already-seen
Impreza
 5-Door Concept at the Tokyo Motor Show just a few weeks prior. And, apart from being red, wasn’t all that different.
We wondered why the Japanese automaker would go through such lengths to show off
two very similar cars at separate far-away Motor Shows
. But no matter, we thought perhaps that Subaru had an ace up its sleeve to catch us all off guard.
But just as we suspected, the Impreza Sedan Concept shows very little difference compared to its 5-Door counterpart - save for the proper boot added in and the necessary styling cues made to accommodate the shift in body style.
Nitpicking aside, Subaru says that the car previews its “Dynamic & Solid” design philosophy going forward. Just how much of the Concept’s cues will make it to the next-generation Impreza when it starts full production remains to be seen, however.
A grain of hope comes from the fact that there isn’t much about these two cars that one could point to as ‘unrealistic’ for production. Perhaps the rather flat wing mirrors have to be swapped out for larger ones, as well as other regulation-based alterations may be required. But by in large, this looks ready for the roads. Which is great, because they’re a substantial step forward in Subaru’s vehicle design.
Subaru should be commended for making a sedan version of a car, concept or otherwise, look equally as stunning as its hatchback version. Its slick lines and the car’s overall muscularity isn’t mellowed by the longer tail.
Still no word yet has been uttered on the car’s internal specifications, but we’re curious to see whether the leap in design is followed by advancements or diversification in powertrain offerings. Perhaps Subaru is waiting for the next motor show on the calendar to tease and subsequently announce that, and why not a wagon version of this Impreza Concept while they’re at it?


2017 Honda Jazz Facelift Details Leaked

Honda Malaysia is set to introduce the Jazz facelift soon, as bookings for the new model will be opened on 11 May. Our friends over at
Automachi
 was tipped by a reader with details of the updated Honda Jazz.
First up, the new Honda Jazz will receive LED daytime running lights and new dual-tone alloy wheels. On top of that, the new Jazz will also receive a new chrome front grille plus revised front and rear bumpers. Inside, we can expect to see the inclusion of a new multi-angle reverse camera and combi leather seats. All variants of the new Jazz will also receive a push start button with smart entry system, which was previously available on the Jazz Grade E and Grade V only.
Safety wise, the leaked brochure mentioned that 6 airbags, VSA, Emergency Stop Signal (ESS), HSA, BA and ABS is available, though there is no mention that the safety kit is standard on all variants. If the
updated Honda City
 is any indication, VSA could be standard on all variants of the new Jazz.

Related Articles

2015 Honda Jazz 1.5 V Full Review - Versatile Virtuoso

Reviews

October 21, 2020

2017 Honda Jazz Brochure Leaked, No New 1.0 Turbo Engine

Auto News

May 04, 2017

5 5ebab Kenapa Rakyat Malaysia Tak Sabar Tunggu Honda City Hatchback!

Insights

October 22, 2021

From what we gathered, changes aren't as drastic as the updated Honda City, but that may not be all as Honda Malaysia has previously teaser that we could expect a J
azz Hybrid
 some time this year.


Proton Sales Improved In May, Maintain Unofficial Market Share Of 9%

For the month of May, where many Malaysians will remember fondly, Proton managed to increase their sales to 4,091 units, a 2.3% improvement versus April. With this result, the company subsequently recorded an unofficial 8.8 percent market share.
Proton also mentioned sales were pushed towards the end of the month, with customers taking the opportunity of the zero-rated GST pricing and the month’s zero percent financing with free 3 months instalment promotion. Saga and Persona models continued to be the popular models contributing to 70 percent of sales.
In conjunction with the Raya festive season, Proton is offering customers the greatest Saga deal with the best price in 10 years. Other models in the Proton line-up are also offered with big ‘Duit Raya’ promotion for the entire month of June 2018.
Savings on the Persona are RM3,000, while the Iriz and Ertiga models can be had from RM4,000 lower this month.
Proton will also be contributing RM10 to Tabung Harapan Malaysia for every Proton car sold from today until 31 December 2018, in response to the spirit of national unity and togetherness.
Proton is also offering a free 20-point inspection to those travelling on long journeys towards the East Coast, North and South regions before the Hari Raya Puasa holidays. Proton service teams will be placed at three strategically located Petronas stations on the 13 June to assist customers on the free 20-point inspection. These Petronas stations are:
East Coast: Terengganu - Petronas Jertih, Lot 134 Mukin Pelagat, Kawasan Seberang Jerteh
North: Kedah - Petronas @ RZ Maju Teguh Ent., Lot PT 33762 HS(D) 3390/95, Bandar Laguna Merbuk, Sungai Petani
South: Johor –Petronas @ Eidaman Berkat, Lot PTD 53091 HS (D) 44103 & 53092 HS (D) 44109, Bandar Baru Air Hitam, Kluang


Honda Malaysia Makes Window Tinting Available To Customers At All Dealerships

From here on forwards, all customers of
Honda
 Malaysia will be able to get their vehicles tinted at all of its dealerships nationwide, upon purchase of a new Honda vehicle, through a new collaboration with 3M and Ecotint.
Four types of tint film options have been made available for purchase, which are:
3M – Horizon Safety: RM1,500
Ecotint – Ray Barrier 4: RM1,500
Ecotint – Ray Barrier 6: RM2,100
Ecotint – Ray Barrier Premier 6: RM2,800
Having gone through an internal selection process, Honda Malaysia has found both 3M and Ecotint to be the best products to meet the requirements for Honda vehicles: 3M imports their films directly from Japan and Korea, while Ecotint films are manufactured by Sumitomo Osaka Cement Co., Ltd. in Japan, giving customers the opportunity to choose their preferred brand of tint.
Honda Malaysia also says on top of being able to keep cabins cooler, the range of tints offered are also designed to hold glass fragments together in the event of shattering, to prevent injury from flying glass pieces.
The 3M and Ecotint films comply to the current JPJ regulations, and customers need not worry about interference of electromagnetic signals such as the usage of GPS and Smart Tag.
The value for money window tinting films also offers the benefits of convenience such as transferable ownership for warranty, nationwide after sales support as well as shorter and safer installation process for customers. Honda customers who purchase the window tint will also enjoy a 5 years warranty from the date of installation.
The collaboration between Honda Malaysia and the two tint film suppliers effectively cuts installation times down, with 3M and Ecotint now pre-heating and pre-cutting their films to specifically fit Honda’s latest range of models beforehand – thus reducing the overall process time.
*Click on the image below to expand


Cheaper Land Rovers and Jaguars on the way thanks to new CKD operations?

If the news report from The Edge Markets is to be believed, we could soon have cheaper Land Rovers and Jaguars in the country as the business daily reported that INOKOM Corp Sdn Bhd is on the verge of becoming a CKD partner for JLR (Jaguar Land Rover).

According to the Edge INOKOM is in the final stage of negotiations with UK-based Jaguar Land Rover to assemble a couple of their models in Malaysia,and while these talks are happening wth Jaguar Land Rover, Inokom is also understood to be at the tail end of similar contract assembly negotiations with
China's Chery Automobile Co Ltd
.

Sime Darby responded to The Edge's queries on the potential new marques for assembly and the enhancement of existing contracts, but it neither confirmed nor denied the possibility.

"Sime Darby Motors is a partner of choice for some of the world's leading brands, giving our customers access to a network of world-class products and services. That being said, we are always on the lookout for new partners, even more so as global economic prospects take a turn for the better," the diversified group says in an email reply. "We are also always looking to forge stronger relationships with our existing partners."

Currently, Inokom assembles a lot of the vehicles you see on the road, including BMWs, MINIs, Hyundais, Kias, Porsches and Mazdas.

Inokom Corporation Sdn Bhd is a subsidiary of Sime Darby Motors, which is part of the Sime Darby Berhad conglomerate. Sime Darby Motors holds a 51% stake in Inokom, with Bermaz Auto Bhd (29%) and Hyundai Motor Co (15%) owning most of the rest.

According to the Edge, Inokom’s plans have hit the market, where separate sources are aware of the talks.

One of the sources said, “There could be significant investments into Inokom with all these new developments. The increase in Porsche marques is especially major, considering the plant (Inokom) is Porsche’s first assembly plant outside Europe", reported The Edge

Part of the rumour mill was also the increase of
production for Porsche vehicles in Malaysia
 to expand its growth regionally as well as locally.


#FlashbackFriday: Remember That Time A Guy In Malaysia Tried To Steal The Same Porsche Twice In One Day

Not too long ago, my colleague Jim answered the question if a second-hand Porsche 986 was a smart buy or money pit. You can read that piece
here
.

This got me thinking and remembering about the greatest heist involving a Porsche to have taken place on Malaysian shores. If you thought Bolehland only turns up funny videos of Perodua Myvis every once in a while – think again, because this story has all the action-packed appeal of Gone in 60 Seconds with just about enough tactical planning and finesse as Bart Simpson mowing his front lawn.

Moreover, the year was 2007, so this predates the popularity of Facebook (2004 in case you are wondering) breaking news updates and dashcams and harks back to the time of Friendster and WinAmp – yes, yours truly remembers. Therefore, you might not even have heard about it. However, rest assured this story has made its way across the world.

Round 1

The story goes, one morning in July of 2007, a neatly dresses gentleman walks into a luxury car dealership in Penang, with a checkbook in hand requesting to take a look at some of their high-end models. He looked like he was going to drop some hard cash there and then.

He finally zeroes in on one Porsche (997) 911 Targa 4 which carried a retail price tag of around RM1 million at the time.

After checking it out and sitting in it for a while, he asks the sales executive for the keys so he could start up the car and hear it purr… the salesman obliges. After starting the car and revving it a few times, he casually starts driving the car, smashes the windows of the dealership and proceeds to drive away with his stolen dream car.

However, his high-performance dreams come to an abrupt end when just 2km later, the Porsche runs out of fuel and is abandoned by its brainiac carjacker. The car is then reclaimed by the police, and towed to a police impound and stored there while the paperwork is resolved.

Image credit:
Autoblog

However, that is not the end…

Later that night, at approximately 10.45 pm, our very own Memphis Raines returns to the police impound; only now, he comes prepared, with a canister full of petrol.

He actually cuts the perimeter fence of the police impound, sneaks his way in – and because he kept the keys after abandoning the car earlier in the day – he proceeds to refuel the Porsche and drive off with it again.

According to reports at the time, the carjacker broke through a police sentry – causing major alarm amongst the police – who then quickly set up roadblocks across the city in an attempt to apprehend the suspect.

Realising he has no way out, he then abandons the Porsche 911 yet again near Maktab Perguruan Tuanku Bainun in Mengkuang. He then takes off on foot and the car is then recovered by the police, for the second time.

And this is the best part, though the police said that investigations would ensue, they never caught their man, who we surmise still roams free to this day. Take that Nicholas Cage.


Tokyo 2017: Subaru Viziv Performance Concept - Teases Next-Gen WRX

Subaru has rolled-out its Viziv Performance Concept at the ongoing 2017 Tokyo Motorshow. The Performance Concept is the latest in a series of Viziv (a portmanteau of the words ‘Vision for Innovation’) concepts which embody the company’s global direction of creating cars that are fun to drive and up to date with the latest technology.
The Viziv Performance Concept is a sports sedan style concept based on the company’s “
Dynamic x Solid
” design language. Packaged as the first sedan body of the series, the Subaru Viziv Performance Concept draws inspiration from iconic Subaru models of the past.
The Performance Concept incorporates Subaru’s next-generation EyeSight advanced driver assistance system enhanced by the use of radar, and highly accurate GPS and navigation systems with the aim of eliminating automobile accidents.
Subaru's crowd-puller measures 4,630 mm in length, 1,950 in width and 1,430 mm in height, for comparison, the current Subaru WRX measures 4,595 mm in length, 1,795 mm in width and 1,475 mm in height.
Likewise, the Performance Concept's wheelbase measures 2,730 mm, versus the current generation WRX’s 2,650 mm.
The Viziv Performance Concept is designed to have a low center of gravity, while the bumpers, fenders, and roof have been constructed using carbon fibre for weight reduction.


Six LRT Ampang Line stations closed starting Sunday, April 2nd - works to be completed by September

The Ampang LRT service line problem has a solution, but it does mean that Prasarana will have to work on it, which means that six stations on the line will be closed starting next week.

According to The Star, six stations along the LRT Ampang-Sri Petaling Line will be suspended from Sunday (April 2).

The stations involved are:

Bandaraya

Sultan Ismail

PWTC

Titiwangsa

Sentul

Sentul Timur

"The trains used for services between Bandaraya and Sentul Timur stations no longer meet set operational criteria and had to be taken out of service for safety reasons".

"This follows the structural and runway damage incident near the Bandaraya station, which made trains unable to return to the LRT depot in Ampang to undergo maintenance work since Jan 27," said RapidRail.

To put a band-aid on the wound, RapidKL would provide free express bus services from this Sunday to support the movement of commuters on top of the existing LRT11 bus service.

Bus LRT13 will cover the Masjid Jamek, Sentul and Sentul Timur station stretch, while, LRT14 bus will help cover stations between Masjid Jamek and Titiwangsa station.

"LRT11, 13 and 14 bus services will operate with a total of 40 buses at a frequency of 10 to 15 minutes during peak hours and depending on traffic conditions", said Rapidrail as reported by The Star.

This is a temporary measure so that they can get on with
fixing severe cracks found on a railway pier
 next to Bandaraya station. When is the work expected to be completed? In February, Transport Minister Anthony Loke said that repairs are expected to be completed in September at the earliest.


Tun Dr. Mahathir: GST To Be Abolished

Tun Dr. Mahathir, the leader of the Pakatan Harapan coalition which has won the recently concluded 14
th
 General Election in Malaysia has confirmed today in a press conference that the new government will cancel GST.
“There is no rolling back. It’s a cancellation,” said Tun Dr. Mahathir when asked about what will happen to the 6 percent Goods and Services Tax introduced by the previous Najib Abdul Razak’s administration to replace the 10 percent Sales and Services Tax (SST). The abolishment of GST was a key part of Pakatan Harapan’s manifesto.
Pending the formation of a new government led by the Pakatan Harapan coalition and consent from the King, details are still lacking but the uncertainty will certainly have an impact on many businesses.
File picture
For the automotive sector, the announcement also means that price lists for not just cars, but also automotive parts and services will have to be revised. A major revision on accounting and IT support systems are required but with no further details, businesses are currently left in a limbo. If we are to revert to the previous SST, the relevant ministries will have to confirm on the implementation and taxable amount.
Whichever path the new government intends to follow, it is important that clear and detailed directives are communicated out the public as soon as possible.
If you are an accounting professional working in Finance, do share with us your thoughts on the matter in the comments section.


Raya 2016: Four exciting offers from Audi this Hari Raya

With the Hari Raya festive season just around the corner, manufacturers are in a very generous disposition, offering all sorts of exciting deals in an effort to put a smile on their customers and potential buyers.
That being said, the latest brand to join the festivities is none other than Audi, with the ‘Audi Open Haus’ promotion which comprises not one, but FOUR exciting offers for those who purchase an Audi.
The offers include:
1-year free insurance
2-years free service
3-years free GAP Insurance
4-years free warranty
The offer, which will be ongoing until the 31
st
 of July 2016, is applicable to 10 different models, which are:
Audi A3
Audi A6
Audi A7
Audi A8
Audi Q3
Audi Q5
Audi Q7
Audi TT
Audi TTS
Audi R8
That said, if you have been thinking of purchasing an Audi, this is arguably the best time as it is not often that the brand offers such promotions.
So don’t miss out on the offer which ends 31
st
 July. Arrange for a test drive at your nearest Audi showroom today!
For more information, log on to Audi Malaysia’s official website
here
.
Looking for an Audi? Find one at
Carlist.my
now.


Los Angeles 2017: All-New Mercedes-Benz CLS - Dazzling Interior Teased

The all-new Mercedes-Benz CLS will make its world debut on the 29th of November at the upcoming 2017 Los Angeles Auto Show.
The latest of two teaser images from Mercedes-Benz highlights the car's central digital display panel.
Traditionally positioned between the E-Class and S-Class models, the all-new CLS
will be based
 on the W213 E-Class' underpinnings, from the company's Modular Rear Architecture (MRA) platform family.
The CLS is also expected to introduce an
entirely new
 Mercedes-AMG engine, which will be badged as the ‘53’ line, that produces around 430 hp from a straight-six engine mated to a hybrid electric motor.
An earlier teaser image (above), showcased the car’s headlamp graphics, revealing a more angular light signature versus the ‘curved’ graphics found on the E-Class and S-Class. The all-new CLS will go on sale in the U.S. market in Q3 of 2018.


Citroen unveils CXPerience Concept Ahead of 2016 Paris Motor Show

Citroen has previewed the CXPerience saloon car roughly a month ahead of the 2016 Paris Motor Show – the ‘two-box’ concept saloon car showcases the brand’s ambitions of moving into the premium upmarket segment.
The CXPerience is a product of Citroen Styling, based in Velizy, France which aims to embody the brand’s new aesthetic codes that embody a high-tech world on the outside with high-class furnishings on the inside.
The vehicle measures 4.85m in length, 2.0m across and 1.37m in height, making it 320mm longer, 130mm wider and 140mm lower than the current flagship model, the
Citroen DS5
. Short overhangs on fore and aft cloak a 3.0m wheelbase which is even longer than the
W213 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
. Large 22-inch five-spoke wheels decorate the flanks, with bodywork finished in a pearlescent sea green "Mizuiro" hue.
At the front, layered headlights – a part of Citroen’s identity flanks a smooth grille insert. The Citroen ‘chevron’ badge forms the centrepiece of a wide chrome garnish that extends outwards toward the front headlamps. Further down, three LED directional headlights, positioned either side of the vehicle. Active flaps, integrated into the sides of the front bumpers are said to improve aerodynamic efficiency.
The rear end brings is highlighted by a concave rear window with a mobile fin at the bottom for improved aerodynamics. The 3D rear lights featuring laser fibre optics are also V-shaped such as the one up front. Like the brand's most recent vehicles, the chevrons at the rear of the concept car feature a black lacquer finish. Possibly the biggest visual highlight is the rear-hinged ‘suicide doors’ opening up to the cabin space.
The interior is inspired by contemporary architecture – finished in citrus yellow shade. A floating dashboard houses a single-spoke steering wheel – another homage to Citroen’s history. Considerable emphasis was placed on the design of the seats, which are upholstered in a padded-effect yellow mesh fabric. The backrests feature walnut wood in a light woody shade similar to the dashboard. The flat foam floor was made to measure, constructed in textured leather, to finish off the interior.
A 19-inch and 16/3 format rectangular screen is a key onboard feature and functions as the vehicle control centre. The infotainment options are presented in such a way as to enable easy browsing by all the occupants, who can find information on their journey, select their own music or watch movies.
A smartphone and a mobile tablet – augment and activate a number of on-board functions. At the front, a central console houses a dedicated smartphone stand. Induction-rechargeable and connected to the screens, the smartphone starts the car and activates a range of control functions such as the comfort and infotainment settings.
The Citroën CXPerience is powered by a plug-in hybrid petrol engine. The internal combustion engine is said to develop between 150- and 200bhp, while the electric motor will contribute an additional 80kW - total system output is rated at 300bhp. Citroen claims a total electric range of 60km for the CXPerience concept.
The concept car houses a 3.0 kWh battery that can be charged in 4.5 hours with a standard charging system or in less than 2.5 hours on a 6.6 kW charger adapted for connection to a 32Amp socket.
An 8-speed electric automatic gearbox is placed transversely between the internal combustion engine and the electric motor, and a compact battery is positioned under the cabin to deliver electric power to the rear axle.


2017 Honda CR-V Launched In Thailand

Honda Thailand has officially launched the all-new 2017 Honda CR-V. For Thailand, a total of four models are available at launch. Thailand is the first market globally to receive the three-row, seven seats set up.
For the first time ever, Honda Thailand is offering a turbodiesel engine for the CR-V. The new engine is a 1.6-litre i-DTEC turbodiesel that delivers 160 hp and 350 Nm that is mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. Honda says that the new
i-DTEC
 mill can deliver up to 18.9 km/L. Apart from the turbodiesel, Honda is also offering a naturally-aspirated 2.4-litre petrol i-VTEC engine with 173 hp and 224 Nm. The petrol mill is also E85-compatible. Similar to the Civic, Honda has dropped its five-speed automatic in favour of their CVT for the petrol variant.
According to our Thai sister site
Autospinn
, four variants are available at launch, namely diesel-powered CR-V DT EL 4WD and DT E, whilst petrol-powered variants include the CR-V 2.4 EL 4WD and 2.4 E.
2017 Honda CR-V price:
2.4 E - THB 1.399 million
2.4 EL 4WD - THB 1.549 million
1.6 DT E - THB 1.549 million
1.6 DT EL 4WD - THB 1.699 million
Visually, the 2017 Honda CR-V gets an all-new exterior design with LED headlights and tail lights, LED daytime running lights. The new headlights flank Honda's bold new grille up front. Towards the rear, the new model features a rear end design that is a departure from its predecessors, with its tail lights now integrated into the tailgate itself.
Earlier, we mentioned that the all-new Thai-spec 2017 Honda CR-V is the first to receive the three row, seven seats set up. To accomodate everyone with comfort, Honda has engineered the air-conditioning system to extend to the second and third row seats. A number of premium features are also available on the 2017 CR-V, including an 8-way power adjustable driver seat with 4-way lumbar support, i-dual-zone automatic air conditioning, seven-inch Advanced Touch Audio Display and a TFT display that replaces the traditional gauges. Exclusive for the diesel-powered models is the button-type gear selector.
Safety is also class-leading, with the 2017 Honda CR-V boasting a Driver Attention Monitor, Agile Handling Assist, Honda LaneWatch, Electric Parking Brake, and Automatic Brake Hold. Airbag count is six for all variants of the new CR-V.
Buyers in Thailand can choose these colours for their new CR-V: White Orchid Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl, Modern Steel Metallic, Lunar Silver Metallic, and a new color, Dark Olive Metallic.


Ex-BMW Group Malaysia CEO To Head Korean Operations

Ex-BMW Group Malaysia MD and CEO, Mr. Han Sang Yun has been appointed as the new CEO of BMW Group Korea. He succeeds Kim Hyo-Joon who will continue as Chairman, having led the company for the past 19 years as CEO.
Han headed BMW Group Malaysia from January 2016 through to January 2018, before being succeeded by current
CEO Harald Hoelzl
. Upon returning to Korea, Han assumed the position of President of BMW Group Korea. In his time in Malaysia, he oversaw the introductions of key BMW models, such as the X5 xDrive 40e PHEV, G30 5 Series, and
740Le xDrive PHEV
.
He has over 25 years of sales and marketing experience, having held product management portfolios in his home market prior to serving in Malaysia.
In a statement, reported by
The Korea Herald
 – Han pledges to lead the group and its future under the motto “one voice and one team.”


MINI Urbanite and Amplified Limited Edition Models Launched In Malaysia – RM198,888 and RM248,888

MINI Malaysia today introduced two new limited edition models in conjunction with the upcoming Chinese New Year festivities:
MINI Urbanite Edition:                   RM 198,888
MINI Amplified Edition:                  RM 248,888
While the MINI Urbanite Edition is based on the Cooper 5 Door, the MINI Amplified Edition is based on the Cooper S 3 Door.
On the MINI Urbanite Edition, key exterior features include an additional pair of LED headlights inspired by the classic Minis in the Monte Carlo Rally, 16” Victory Spoke Rims with Piano Black light trims and grille, as well as racing stripes on the bonnet and along the body.
Inside, the John Cooper Works Colour Line’s Glowing Red theme is carried over, complemented by an Anthracite Headliner with an ‘Urbanite’ badge.
On top of the MINI Connected standard feature with Bluetooth and USB, the Urbanite comes a new Rear-View Camera system with parking guidance lines and obstacle marking that detects and marks stationary objects.
Power is supplied by a 1.5 litre turbocharged three-cylinder producing 136 hp and 220 Nm of torque, paired to a six-speed automatic transmission. Thanks to the powertrain package, the MINI Urbanite is capable of sprinting from zero to hundred in 8.1 seconds and will hit a top speed of 207 km/h.
Two colour themes are available for the MINI Urbanite Edition - Midnight Black with Red Racing Stripes, and Blazing Red or Pepper White with Black Racing Stripes.
Moving on to the MINI Amplified Edition, visual highlights include the John Cooper Works Aerodynamic Kit, a rear spoiler, new Piano Black grille and matching headlight and taillight trim, racing stripes, as well as 17” JCW wheels.
Inside, the MINI Amplified comes with JCW racing seats with integrated headrests designed in Alcantara leather with contrasting ‘Red Dinamica’ colour, an Anthracite headliner with Glowing Red accents which was only available on the John Cooper Works model previously, contrasting stitching on the gear lever, JCW perforated leather steering wheel embroidery, comfort access, and black chequered interior trims.
Under the hood of the MINI Amplified is a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine which produces 211 hp and 300 Nm of torque. The car also comes with John Cooper Works Tuning Kit and the new John Cooper Works Valve Silence System.
Capable of doing the century sprint in 6.7 seconds with a top speed of 233 km/h, the MINI Amplified also features a new Track mode which can be activated via the John Cooper Works Bluetooth Remote Control.
Besides all of the above, standard features on both cars include Rear View Camera, LED headlight with daytime driving lights, LED taillights, rain sensors, Park Distance Control, automatic dual zone air conditioning, 12 colour ambient lighting, hi-res 6.5” MINI Visual Boost with 5 key controller, automatic start / stop with Keyless Go, Spotify integration, cruise control with braking function.
Covered by MINI Malaysia’s 5 Years Roadside Assistance programme, both limited edition models will be at all authorised MINI showrooms nationwide from today.


UMW Toyota Motor Donates Hilux To Orphanage In Kedah

A
Toyota

Hilux
 was recently donated by UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd to Yayasan Anak-Anak Yatim Sultanah Haminah (YAASH) in Alor Setar, Kedah.
The pickup will be used by the foundation for a variety of their charitable activities, events and community service work in an effort improve the well-being and quality of lives of orphans in Kedah.
Mr Akio Takeyama, UMW Toyota Motor’s Deputy Chairman, was in the Kedah state capital to hand over a mock key to the foundation’s partrol, Raja Permaisuri Agong Tuanku Hajah Haminah, during a ceremony on its grounds in Alor Setar.
UMW Toyota’s President, Datuk Ismet Suki was also in attendance, and expressed his hope that the Toyota Hilux would support the foundation’s noble effort to improve the community through its charitable work in assisting poor orphans and provide them with proper care, guidance, and support.
“It is important that these children are given proper guidance particularly the education so that they will be on the right direction for the betterment of their life in the future,” he said, adding that he commended the foundation in taking a step in addressing  the issue of education-lagging amongst orphans in the State.
Datuk Ismet added that the donation itself was part of UMW Toyota’s philanthropic pillars in the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts, where it seeks opportunities to contribute to the communities where they operate.
Yayasan Anak-Anak Yatim Sultanah Haminah (YAASH) is a foundation that was set up in 2011 to aid in the welfare and well-being of underprivileged orphans. These orphans regardless of their academic level are placed in their care and are guided to achieve their potential.


Volvo XC90 Facelift Unveiled – With F1-Style KERS Technology

Volvo Cars has unveiled the facelifted version of its flagship SUV, the XC90 which now boasts a newly-developed fuel-saving engine option for better efficiency, in line with the company’s ambitious electrification strategy.
The refreshed XC90 for the first time offers customers Volvo’s advanced kinetic energy recovery braking system (or KERS, like in F1 race cars), coupled with its existing internal combustion engines to create a new integrated electrified powertrain.
The new range of electrified powertrains falls under Volvo’s
new ‘B’ badge
, which will progressively be made available across its entire model range going forward. The new ‘B’-badged cars complement Volvo’s existing T8 Twin Engine PHEV powertrains in the new XC90.
This new electrified powertrain offers drivers up to 15 percent more fuel efficiency and emission reductions in real-world driving – this is courtesy of a new brake-by-wire system interacting with the vehicle’s energy recovery system to recover kinetic energy under braking and convert it into electrical energy for later use.
On the outside, the facelifted XC90 offers subtle upgrades to the exterior design: new wheels, exterior colours, and an updated grill design, among other details.
On the inside, much of the interior remains unchanged, but crucially, can now be ordered with a range of different seating configurations. The XC90 can be ordered as a four-seater (Excellence variant), or as a six- or seven-seater depending on the customer’s preferences. Additionally, new interior materials such as a wool blend offer further options for personalisation.
In terms of active safety technology, the XC90 now offers steering intervention with both the City Safety and the Blind Spot Information System. City Safety with Autobrake is still the only system on the market to recognise pedestrians, cyclists, and large animals. The Oncoming Lane Mitigation system first introduced on the XC60 is now also available on XC90, while the Cross Traffic Alert technology now also offers Autobrake.
In terms of connectivity, the XC90 offers Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, and Volvo’s proprietary Sensus infotainment system now adopts all the latest updates (models after the XC90 have received); new features include Spotify streaming where applicable.


The Best Time To Take A Drive Is Now

If you thought last Friday's news of drastic drop in fuel prices was due to the kindness of the newly appointed government, think again, because these prices are actually a cause and effect of a fuel price war going on somewhere else in the world.

It was announced today that the world's fuel price has crashed as much as 30 per cent, driving crude prices to its lowest in nearly half a decade.

Cause

The cause of all this turmoil is actually a Saudi Arabia VS Russia problem. Long story short, they were friends, and now they are not. They are part of the alliance called Opec+, which stands for the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries. Every type of decision with regard to fuel was made collectively with other Opec+ countries.

Due to the coronavirus, demand has hit an oil time low for fuel, hence Saudi Arabia suggested to the other OPEC+ members to curb the production of fuel in order to control its price but Russia didn't want to play ball as it would in turn benefit the American Shale industry. So what did the Saudi's do? Be a child of course.

The Straits Times reported " Saudi Arabia plans to increase oil output next month, going well above 10 million barrels a day, as the kingdom responds aggressively to the collapse of its Opec+ alliance with Russia amid a coronavirus shock to demand."

This action by the Kingdom is supposedly a game of chess in order to renegotiate terms. "The shock-and-awe Saudi strategy could be an attempt to impose maximum pain in the quickest possible way to Russia and other producers, in an effort to bring them back to the negotiating table, and then quickly reverse the production surge and start cutting output if a deal is achieved."

Effect

While this drastic drop in price has brought joy to Cayenne, Range Rover or any big CC vehicle owner, they have brought in turn brought tears to Malaysian fuel dealers. The STAR reported that PDAM (Petrol Dealers Association Malaysia) wants a change in the Malaysian fuel policy as the current one will hurt dealers badly. " PDAM president Datuk Khairul Annuar Abdul Aziz said that while the cheaper fuel is welcomed by the public, petrol dealers would have to sell fuel at a loss. He said this was because the previous government administration wanted to limit the price increase quantum to one to two sen weekly, to avoid inflation."

The implication for vehicle owners

Well, there are no negatives here. This will be the best time to drive the roads of our beautiful country and use some premium fuel while you're at it. RON100 anyone? Since it will also be the school holidays this weekend, enjoy the gift of low fuel prices and take your family on that well earned holiday.


Shanghai 2019: The Mercedes-Benz GLB Is A Long Wheelbase, 5+2 Seater GLA

At yesterday’s opening of the Auto Shanghai motor show, Mercedes-Benz has announced that it is introducing a new nameplate to its growing compact car family, the GLB-Class. The car seen here is technically still a concept, albeit one that’s very close to series production stage.
Sitting between the GLC-Class and GLA-Class, the GLB-Class is a significantly larger, more SUV-like rival to the BMW X1 than the GLA-Class, which was more of a taller riding A-Class hatchback than a genuine contender to the BMW X1.
Measuring 4,634 mm long and 1,890 mm wide, the GLB-Class is right at the limit of what anyone would call a ‘compact car.’ It’s only a tiny bit smaller than the GLC-Class, just 22 mm shorter with identical in width.
Compared to the outgoing generation (MFA platform) GLA-Class, the GLB-Class’ 2,829 mm long wheelbase is 130 mm longer. The additional 130 mm length between the axles allow Mercedes-Benz to cram seven seats (optional) inside the GLB-Class, something which BMW doesn’t offer with the X1, whose 2,670 mm wheelbase is 159 mm shorter.
As you would have guessed, the GLB-Class is built on the same MFA-II platform that already underpins the
A-Class hatchback
,
A-Class Sedan
, and CLA-Class Coupe.
It also means that Mercedes-Benz now have three different wheelbase lengths for the MFA-II platform – 2,829 mm for the GLB-Class, 2,789 mm for the
China-only A-Class Sedan long wheelbase
, and 2,729 mm for the A-Class sedan and hatchback,
B-Class
, and
CLA-Class
.
The third row seats are only suitable for short distance trips or for children, and folds flat into the boot floor.
The second row seats can slide 150 mm front and back (90 mm front, 50 mm back) and the backrests, which split-folds in 40:20:40 ratio, can be adjusted to incline in eight different angles. To facilitate access to the third row, the second row seats can be folded forward and pushed upwards.
Like any recent Mercedes-Benz, the GLB-Class uses comes with MBUX infotainment system.
Currently, only one engine has been announced – a 2.0-litre M260 turbocharged petrol shared with the A250. It makes 224 hp and 350 Nm but unlike the 7-speed dual-clutch automatic A250, the GLB-Class will use the 8G-DCT from diesel-powered variants of the B-Class. It will also feature 4Matic permanent all-wheel drive.
Click
here
 to get the best deals for Mercedes-Benz cars.


Ford and SDAC Host the Third Annual World Cup Challenge

Every year, Ford hosts the World Cup Challenge as a means to reward their customer service employees and provide intiative for those who put a little bit of extra effort into their work. For the third year in a row, Ford and SDAC have hosted the challenge in Malaysia. This year saw the top 15 sales consultants from around the region converge to participate in the challenge held at SDAC PJ.
Sales consultants were evaluated based on how they manage relationships with customers and ensure their satisfaction, customer service levels, knowledge of Ford vehicles and ability to explain their features, functions and benefits. “The quality of the customer service experience we provide is just as important as the quality of our Ford vehicles. We are proud to have our dedicated employees recognised through the World Cup Challenge,” said Syed Ahmad Muzri Syed Faiz, managing director, Sime Darby Auto Connexion.
Winners on the day were:
Winner:
Ms. Ezyanti Bt. A. Razak - Capital Intertrade
1 st Runner-up:
Mr. Kevin Nicholas Rajagopal - SDAC Juru
2 nd Runner-up:
Mr. Kenny Siew Kok Wai - SDAC Petaling Jaya


People Now Prefer To Drive Instead Of Taking Public Transport

Will the roads get more congested now especially when you consider that more people prefer to drive during this COVID-19 recovery period?

I'm sure we're all pretty tired of hearing about the cause and effect of the COVID-19 pandemic, but it is interesting to see how it has altered everyday life.

Things such as walking freely without getting your temperature checked at every entrance now seem dystopian, but we have persevered thus far and learned to live with it, as we are a resilient and adaptable race if anything.

One of the other things that has changed due to the current circumstances is how we view public transport. What was once a necessity is now something we approach a little more apprehensively.

According to CompareHero.my, a survey on Malaysians, state that many of us now prefer to be in a
private vehicle
 rather than use public transport.

"Our survey revealed that the majority would prefer to drive instead of taking public transport after the MCO has been lifted due to the on-going pandemic concerns. The intent of buying or
owning a car
 is likely to continue as most Malaysians still need to travel for work apart from the behavioural change that has manifested in the new normal." summarised CompareHero.

The survey gives us the impression that 51 percent of people who usually utilise the public transport system now prefer to drive after the easing of the MCO. Another aspect covered in the survey was also to understand how much Malaysians are willing to spend on a car?

The majority (73%) opt to buy
cars below RM120k
, though there is still a size-able 27% who are looking to buy cars above RM120k.

Price (73.2%) is the most important factor to decide on a new car purchase, followed by After Sales Services (56.3%), Car Performance (55.7%), Monthly Car Fuel Consumption (55.6%), Safety Feature (54.2), Interior Design (53.1), Maintenance & Resale Value (53.1), Exterior Design (47.9) & Car Size & Capacity (47.1).

According to the majority, many prefer to purchase cars under RM120k. Price factor trumps all concerns followed by aftersales and vehicle performance. It's interesting to see car size and capacity coming in last, as we always assume that many people decide what vehicle to purchase based on the size and capacity first.

But hey, who could argue with a survey, the people have spoken!


Mitsubishi Opens New Plant In Indonesia – Gears Up For 2018 Mitsubishi XM MPV

Set to be introduced somewhere between end-2017 and early-2018, Mitsubishi’s upcoming seven-seater model will have its sights aimed at the crossover-ish seven-seater Honda BR-V, as well as traditional MPVs like the Toyota Avanza and Nissan Grand Livina.
At the opening of Mitsubishi Motor’s new manufacturing plant in Indonesia, the company confirmed that an all-new seven-seater MPV will soon join the list of models produced at its new plant in Bekasi.
The yet to be named Mitsubishi seven-seater is expected to follow closely on the styling cues previewed by the
Mitsubishi XM Concept
 car that was on display at last year’s Gaikindo Indonesa International Auto Show. Not much details have been revealed yet but a new 1.5-litre petrol engine is rumoured to be planned for the front-wheel drive Mitsubishi.
Now that Nissan owns 34 percent of Mitsubishi Motors, it is highly likely that the model will also spawn a Nissan-badged twin.
Apart from the upcoming seven-seater model, the new 160,000 units per year plant located in the province of West Java is currently producing the Triton-based Pajero Sport and the Colt L300 light commercial vehicle.
Built at the cost of 65 billion Yen, the plant is operated by Mitsubishi Motors Krama Yudha Indonesia (MMKI), Mitsubishi Motors’ local joint venture company formed with its Indonesian partner PT Krama Yudha (KY).

Related Articles

Spied: 2018 Mitsubishi XM Spotted In Japan

Auto News

May 22, 2017

Upcoming All-New 2017 Mitsubishi XM MPV Set To Debut In Indonesia Later This Year

Auto News

March 28, 2017

Production Spec 2017 Mitsubishi XM Caught On Camera In Indonesia

Auto News

August 12, 2020

Carlos Ghosn, chairman of MMC and the Renault-Nissan Alliance, said: "This plant represents a vote of confidence in Indonesia, in the ASEAN region and in the growth prospects of Mitsubishi Motors. We are proud to be creating jobs and investment in one of the region's largest and most important economies, which will be a strong manufacturing and export base for our expanding Alliance."
Osamu Masuko, chief executive of Mitsubishi Motors, added: "The Bekasi assembly facility symbolizes our ambition to be a market leader in Indonesia, where we will produce our best-selling Pajero Sport and a new MPV to meet growing demand for high-quality, rugged and reliable passenger vehicles. This will enable us to build share in a market where we have been present for more than 45 years."


American Muscle Cars Up For Bidding At 23 Motors In Johor Bahru

Twelve exotic cars, including nine American muscle cars will be put up for bidding by 23 Motors Sdn. Bhd., a parallel importer in Johor Bahru.
According to Executive Director Datuk Kaathir Mustaffa, better known as Farouk, 23 Motors is the first company in Johor to offer such a wide variety of American cars up for bidding.
The models on offer are:
Chevrolet Camaro SS 6.2 V8
Chevrolet Camaro Cabriolet
Chevrolet Camaro 3.6 V6
Ford Mustang GT 5.0 V8
Ford Mustang GT Cabriolet
Ford Mustang GT500 5.8 V8
Ford Mustang 1967
Dodge Challenger SRT8 6.2 V8
Dodge Challenger 3.6 V6
Hummer H2 6.2 V8
Cadillac Escalade ESV 6.2 V8
Also available for bidding is a McLaren MP4 12C 3.8 V8.
The bidding will take place on 12 March 2016, with an opening bidding price of RM100,000. Farouk added that the vehicles are valued at between RM500,000 to RM1.6 million.
He also assured buyers that the vehicles come with all the relevant documentation, including import permits and tax documents.
A portion of proceeds collected from the bids will be donated to charity homes via the company’s corporate social responsibility program.
23 Motors also has a service centre to meet the after-sales needs of its customers.
“The service centre will make it easier to our customers to obtain after-sales support, and to source for spare parts. Our service staff are experienced and have undergone the necessary training to work on these cars,” said Farouk.
“Besides importing American muscle cars, we also import all types of vehicles including MPVs, SUVs and sedans,”
Interested buyers are invited to participate in the bid on 12 March 2016, 5 pm.
23 Motors Sdn. Bhd. is located at No. 13A, Jalan Dato Abdullah Tahir, 80300 Johor Bahru. Interested bidders may contact En. Atar at 07-333 2323.


Quick comparison: 2023 Subaru WRX vs WRX Sportwagon in Malaysia (with galleries)

Both the 2023 Subaru WRX sedan and 2023 WRX wagon are sporty and high-performance vehicles, but there are some differences between the two, predominately dictated by their body shapes.

The WRX sedan is a compact sports sedan that features a four-door body style, while the
WRX wagon
 is a compact sports wagon that features a five-door wagon body style.

The sedan is generally considered to be the more sporty and aggressive-looking, while the wagon was designed to be more practical and versatile. In this case the body cladding on the sedan gives it its more aggressive look, while the clean lines and design on the wagon give it a more family-friendly personality.

The sedan is slightly lighter and more aerodynamic than the wagon, which can give it a slight edge in acceleration and handling. However, the wagon offers more cargo space and versatility, making it a better choice for those who need to carry larger items or have more passengers.

The sedan and wagon WRX are the same from the front end to the B-pillar, but from there on, they both have individual body styles, including having individual taillights.

The interior design and 11.6-inch portrait infotainment system is the same but the wagon is equipped with leather seats and rear airconditioning vents, while the sedan comes with fabric seats and no rear air conditioning vents.

The manual sedan variant also doesn't come with Subaru's Full Eyesight Driver Assist system, but the CVT variant does, just like the WRX Wagon.

In terms of performance, both the sedan and wagon are powered by Subaru's latest FA24F 2.4-litre flat-four turbocharged engine featuring 271 hp and 375 Nm of torque from a lowly 2,000rpm.

Both models also come standard with all-wheel drive, but the similarities end there. While the wagon is only available with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), the sedan is offered in a six-speed manual transmission and CVT) option.

Ultimately, the choice between the WRX sedan and wagon comes down to personal preference and needs. If you prioritize sporty looks and slightly better performance, the sedan may be the better option. If you prioritize versatility and practicality, the wagon may be the way to go.


Lexus Puts On Its Dancing Shoes For The 'Dance Of F'

Lexus
 Japan has released a video that highlights their high-performance F models filled with loads of tyre smoke and a good display of automotive choreography dubbed “Dance of F”. Yes, it is as amazing as you think it is and here’s why:
In the video, we see the Japanese carmaker’s performance line-up that includes an LFA, two RC F GT3s, and two RC F road cars. Shot at the Fuji Speedway and with driving direction handled by Takayuki Kinoshita (Japanese racing car driver), the demonstration served to show off the vehicle’s body control and agility.
During the three-minute video, we see the cars slide, accelerate, drive in formation, and basically hoon their way around the circuit.
For those who are looking for numbers, the LFA packs a 4.8-litre V10 engine that produces 552hp while the road-going RC F, which is also sold here, makes do with a 5.0-litre V8 for 470hp. Its GT3 racing version has the same engine cranked up to now produce 540hp along with a weight of only 1,250kg.


Polis Tahan Ambulans, Beri Laluan Kepada Konvoi VVIP Untuk Elak Kemalangan

Sabtu lalu, tular sebuah video di media sosial yang dipercayai diambil daripada
dashcam
 sebuah
ambulans
 yang memaparkan ambulans itu ditahan polis bagi memberi laluan kepada
konvoi VVIP
. Apa kes?

Berdasarkan video yang berdurasi 47 saat itu, ambulans tersebut telah ditahan oleh dua anggota polis trafik yang bertugas mengawal lalu lintas sempena program Jelajah Aspirasi Keluarga Malaysia di Angsana Johor Bahru Mall.

Meskipun menimbulkan persoalan dan kemarahan orang ramai di media sosial, Ketua Polis Daerah Johor Bahru Utara ACP Rupiah Abd Wahid menjelaskan tindakan anggota tersebut menahan ambulans itu bertujuan untuk mengelakkan risiko
kemalangan
 besar antara ambulans dan konvoi VVIP tersebut.

*Kredit video: Sukar Star TV

Jelasnya, jika anggota tersebut memberi laluan kepada ambulans, dikhuatiri akan berlaku pertembungan antara ambulans dan kenderaan konvoi yang sudah melepasi laluan tersebut lebih awal dari ambulans. Tambahan pula, jalan utama laluan konvoi adalah menurun bukit dan laluan ambulans adalah dari jalan susur Danga Bay.

Beliau menegaskan bahawa ambulans tersebut tetap diberikan keutamaan laluan, malah anggota yang bertugas di situ juga memberi ruang laluan kepada ambulans untuk maju ke hadapan sebelum ditahan anggota yang telah membuat penilaian dari setiap sudut keselamatan.

Setelah kenderaan konvoi yang bergerak laju menuruni bukit itu selesai melalui jalan tersebut, barulah ambulans tersebut diberikan kebenaran untuk meneruskan perjalanan.

“Durasi video menunjukkan penahanan ambulans oleh anggota itu sangat minimum iaitu sekitar 30 saat sahaja,” jelas Rupiah.

Beliau berkata Polis Daerah Johor Bahru Utara telah terkesan dengan video berdurasi 46 saat yang memaparkan kejadian berkenaan, melibatkan dua anggota sedang bertugas membuat
cut off
 atau
point duty
 seperti yang tular di media sosial.

Susulan itu, Rupiah berkata satu laporan polis telah dibuat dan kes disiasat di bawah Seksyen 233 Akta Komunikasi dan Multimedia 1998 dan Seksyen 505 (b) Kanun Keseksaan.

Polis telah menasihatkan orang ramai agar tidak mengeluarkan komen dan maklumat tidak benar, serta tidak bertanggungjawab melalui kaedah tular di media sosial bagi mengelakkan kegusaran dalam kalangan masyarakat.


Proton Deal Nearing Completion; Geely To Appoint New CEO For Manufacturing

DRB-Hicom Bhd and Zhejiang Geely Holding Group are almost ready to finalize the deal that will see the Chinese firm step in and assume a 49.9 percent stake of the Proton Group.
The
definitive agreement
 that set the deal in stone was signed on 23 June 2017 in Kuala Lumpur. The agreement also saw DRB-Hicom also sold its entire stake in Lotus to Geely and Etika Automotive.
Both companies are in the midst of working out a detailed plan to produce a solid ‘road-map’ for the Proton Group’s business direction in the years to come. The plan will include strategies for joint development of new vehicles for both companies for the global market.
The Proton Group consists of three key entities, namely the holding company Proton Holdings Bhd (PHB) and two wholly-owned subsidiaries – Perusahaan Otomobil Nasional Sdn Bhd (PONSB) and Proton Edar Sdn Bhd.
PONSB is responsible for production, operations, manufacturing, and marketing, whilst Proton Edar functions as distributor of Proton cars for retail.
Upon completion of the transaction, all three companies will have a mix of DRB-Hicom and Geely representatives in their respective boards of directors, with DRB getting one additional seat to match its slightly superior 50.1 percent share holding.
At management level, DRB-Hicom Group Managing Director Dato’ Sri Syed Faisal Albar will continue to serve as Chairman of Proton Holdings. At the same time, CEO of Proton Holdings, Dato’ Ahmad Fuaad Kenali will be vacating his post effective 30 September 2017.
“He has done an impeccable job in his short tenure at PHB. Under his watch, Proton had rolled out four new models in a span of eight short months. He also played a vital role in closing Proton’s search for a suitable FSP [foreign strategic partner]. The need for an FSP in Proton was one the key priorities of DRB-Hicom at the point of our acquisition of PHB in 2012,” said Syed Faisal.
Fuaad took the helm as CEO of PHB on 1 April 2016 and will be assuming a major but unspecified role in a company related to DRB-Hicom. Dato’ Radzaif Mohamed, Deputy CEO of PONSB and Abdul Rashid Musa, recently-appointed CEO of Proton Edar, will continue in their current roles.
To facilitate the effective transfer of Geely’s expertise into Proton, the next CEO of PONSB will be nominated by Geely Holding.
“PONSB is the bulk of the operations of Proton Group, and thus it is critical that we have the right person for the job. An announcement shall be made in due course,” explained Syed Faisal.


First 350kW DC fast charger in SEA launched in PJ by Gentari

Gentari Sdn Bhd
 together with EV Connection has launched the first 350kW DC fast charger here in Malaysia - also the first in Southeast Asia.

Petronas' clean energy subsidiary unveiled this 'supercharger' located at the X Park Sunway Serene within the Sungai Way Free Trade Industrial Zone, Petaling Jaya. If you've been to the place in Kelana Jaya, you should also know that it houses the largest indoor go-kart track in Southeast Asia.

10 EV charging bays from 7kW to 350kW, both AC & DC

*Image credit: EV Connection

The 350kW DC fast charger itself is connected to two separate charging stations paired with a CCS2 charging gun to offer 175kW max when two EVs are charged at the same time. There's also a third bay marked as the waiting area while the rest include:

Two 180kW DC chargers

Two 22kW AC chargers

Three 7kW AC chargers

Thanks to this massive setup, the X Park Sunway Serene has also been awarded the first Electric Vehicle Charging System license (EVCS) from the Energy Commission (EC). At the same time, Gentari and EV Connection are setting up another charging station located at the Bangi Golf Resort in Bandar Baru Bangi, Selangor.

Pay by the kWh, not by the minute

*Image credit: EV Connection

The new Gentari x EV Connection charging bays will also charge based on the amount of kWh that goes into charging your EV. The base rates via the
JomCharge
 app right now stand at RM1.00 per kWh for 180kW DC charging, RM1.20 per kWh for 350kW, and RM0.55 per kWh for all AC charging outputs.

According to Gentari’s chief green mobility officer, Shah Yang Razalli, "Gentari’s new high-speed charging hub at X Park Sunway Serene is expected to contribute significantly towards supporting a viable EV ecosystem by improving range confidence for EV drivers with a focus on the urban charging experience."


Proton R3 All-Ladies Team Creates History At S1K

The headlines for the recently concluded Sepang 1000km (S1K) race were grabbed by Team Proton R3 (R3) for finishing first and second, but the most surprising result of the race was actually claimed by the third R3 entrant.

The Proton Saga driven by Leona Chin, Faye Kusairi and Nurul Husna, R3’s three lady drivers, actually finished seventh, setting the record for the best result achieved by an all-ladies driver line-up.

Unlike the other R3 drivers, the team of Leona, Faye and Nurul did not have prior experience of competing together in the Malaysia Championship Series (MCS).

While Faye and Nurul were selected via the team’s lady drivers search initiative, Leona is a professional who has been competing in the MCS. The 2019 S1K was in fact the first time all three were sharing the same car.

Despite their unfamiliarity with each other and R3, the inherent speed of all three drivers was evident during practice sessions for the race, consistently setting times that put them in the top eight.

Their qualifying session however was compromised by a small technical issue, consigning them to start from the back of the M-Production class grid.

Starting 26th did not dampen their spirit and during the race as all three drove with great skill and patience as they methodically worked their way up through the field.

It was therefore unsurprising that by the time Leona crossed the line after nine gruelling hours, the ladies were celebrating an improbable seventh place finish.

Despite being R3’s newest car, the 2019 Proton Saga has already proven its ability to be a quick track car. Since the production car was only launched in August, the team faced the challenge of getting the car ready on time, but the results have proven how suitable the Saga is for motorsports.

"Our lady race drivers performed admirably and drove really well to mount a great comeback from their low grid position. To finish seventh in what is one of the toughest S1K races in recent memory is a great achievement and the best finish ever achieved at the race for an all-ladies driving crew," said Gary Lee, Head of Team Proton R3.


Proton Appoints Seven New Dealers, On Track For 109 Total 3S Centres

After unveiling a very aggressive rebuilding plan and growing interest in its new upcoming SUV, Proton has announced the appointment of seven new dealers, all meeting the latest requirement of establishing 3S and 4S centres.
Proton has received plenty of request from new dealer investors as well as an overwhelming response from existing dealers who are keen to upgrade their dealerships. Among the new dealers are Anggerik Semoyang Sdn. Bhd., DIDI Motors Sdn. Bhd., DRS Golsta Sdn. Bhd., and Ultra Gallant Sdn. Bhd.
“I wish to thank new investors who joined us a Dealers of the Proton family. While all of us were tirelessly making plans to drive Proton forward, we are very encouraged by the fact that we have the support of new investors along the way, who are game to take on the new challenge of being a Proton dealer,”
Dr Li added,”This can only mean one thing – that we still have a strong brand presence in the market and because of this, many came on board to sail on the Proton journey into the future with us. Thank you for believing in us. Now we can all charge ahead and be the driving force of the brand.”
On the progress of achieving the target of 109 outlets with 3S and 4S status by October this year, Proton announced that they ahead of their internal timeline, with 79 outlets completed.
CEO of Proton, Dr. Li Chunrong said, “I am happy to share that within a period of less than five months, which is from January to 18 of May this year, we managed to accomplish 79 outlets with 3S and 4S status, which is approximately 72% achievement against target set for the year.”
Proton’s Head of Network Planning Dr Ho Tuck Sum said approvals for new dealerships are limited and those who are interested should submit their proposals as soon as they can.


LEAKED: All-New 2016 BMW 7 Series (G11) Revealed On Austrian Site

The all-new 2016
BMW
 7 Series (G11)
will make its global debut on June 10
 but detailed photos and more information about the
Mercedes-Benz
 S-Class and Audi A8 fighter was recently leaked on the car maker’s Austrian website.
Highlighted by
BMW Blog

through
Bimmertoday.de
, the new
7 Series
 is offered in three powerplants. The BMW 740i gets a 3.-0-litre turbocharged in-line six-cylinder petrol engine with 326PS rated at 8.1-8.3 l/100km. Next up, the 750i xDrive employs a 4.4-litre V8 offering 450PS that is sent to all four wheels.
A sole diesel option is listed for the 730d which uses a new B57 3.0-litre turbocharged in-line six-cylinder which outputs 265PS, driving the rear wheels or all four of them if the xDrive variant is chosen. All three engines send their power through an eight-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission.
Moving on to the exterior design, the new front fascia features BMW’s Adaptive LED headlamps and LED daytime-running lights (optional). The side profile features a chrome plate that runs along the bottom sides leading up to the front wheel reminiscent of the 4 Series, similar to what we saw in an
earlier leaked photo of the new 7er
. As an optional extra, BMW’s M Sport Package can also be selected that switches out the front bumpers for more aggressive ones and tags on new alloy wheels as well.
Inside, the cabin can be customised with a vast list of options through the standard options list and BMW Individual programme that include different leather upholsteries, updated infotainment and rear passenger entertainment systems, and many more.
Keep in mind that these specifications are listed as on the Austrian BMW website and might not be reflective of that received by other countries.
So, what will it be then, the Mercedes-Benz
S-Class
, Audi A8, or all-new BMW 7 Series?


Driving the 2017 Mercedes-Benz C350e PHEV – Real World Efficiency

Noise, it has this uncanny, yet amusing way of weaving its way into the experience and memory of driving any car. The exhaust note of the engine provides that pulse of excitement, a beat if you will, much like a bass guitar accompanies the rhythm of your favourite Rolling Stones soundtrack.
For more than a century – cars have provided this. The chord progression on which any good song is based is much like an exhaust note that simplifies the message of just what the engine is doing, and how much more of this wonderful sensation, one calls power, is left to be explored.
I don’t mean to get philosophical here, but strapped in the calming confines of the Mercedes-Benz C350e Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV), I feel nothing! The speed builds almost exponentially when you have your foot firm to the floor, but, it's so quiet. The century sprint takes just 5.9 seconds and it’ll keep accelerating to an electronically limited 250km/h.
The hybrid propulsion comes courtesy of a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 211hp and 350Nm of torque. The electric motor of the C350e has an output of up to 60 kW and delivers a torque of 340Nm. A total system output of 279hp is on tap, as well as a torque of 600Nm.
The 7G-Tronic Plus seven-speed automatic transmission incorporates both the electric motor and with an additional clutch between the combustion engine and the electric motor. When driving in all-electric mode, this decouples the combustion engine from the drivetrain.
But today isn’t about the noise or the power, although this much vaunted Jekyll and Hyde trait (of power and efficiency) is what Mercedes will tell you is the best feature about their
recently launched
, top of the range C-Class model. There is that
V8 powered AMG model
 too, but that’s a story for another day.
The C350e PHEV replaces the
C300
 model and is available in three trim lines.
Avantgarde Exterior /  Avantgarde Interior: RM289,888
Avantgarde Exterior /  AMG Interior: RM294,888
AMG Exterior /  AMG Interior: RM299,888
As opposed to its deadliest rival, the
very talented BMW 330e
, which is considerably cheaper, the C350e is packaged to take full advantage of the EEV incentives and deliver added value in terms of features. The C350e is the first locally sold C-Class to offer Airmatic suspension as standard. Other top tier features include the automatic climate Pre-Conditioning that can adjust the interior temperature according to a pre-set time, immediately after you unlock the car or at a push of the control button before you get in.
The C350e driving experience attempts to qualify the eco-credentials of the C350e in a real-world situation, a select group of journalists were challenged to consume the least amount of fuel from Kuala Lumpur (KL) to Port Dickson (PD), circa 90kms of mixed driving.
The rules were simple, no modifications to the car's aerodynamics (by folding wing mirrors or covering up panel gaps) and we had full disposal of the car’s four drive modes to suit our driving requirements. This then would come down not only to ‘feather footing’ the throttle button select the perfect mode for the car to be in.
HYBRID: Default setting where all modes used based on driving condition. The car decides.
E-MODE: Full electric driving, haptic accelerator paddle provides feedback when IC engine begins.
E-SAVE: Battery charge is preserved.
CHARGE: Battery charged using the internal combustion engine while driving.
Each mode presents very different effects on fuel consumption, but the key parameter being – use up all the battery juice at the start and final legs of the journey, manage the engine’s response in between. The cars would start at full charge – which Mercedes-Benz claims will deliver 31km of full electric driving range.
The high-voltage lithium-ion battery has a total capacity of 6.2 kWh. The battery is water-cooled, and weighs around 100 kgs, mounted in a sheet-steel housing underneath the rear axle in the interest of crash safety, the cars driving dynamics and to occupy as little boot space as possible.
The intelligent on-board charging system can recharge the battery in around 1 hour 45 minutes at a wall box (230 V, 16A, 3.7 kW single-phase). Alternatively, charging via a standard (230 V and 13A, 3.0 kW) domestic socket requires around two hours.
My partner for the challenge and I agreed, we were not going to go to extremes simply to produce extremely good results, but keep accessories like the air-conditioning and radio on, to be truly reflective of a real world driving situation. The only further measure involved keeping our speeds constant and being as gentle as we can with the throttle.
The rest would be up to the intrinsic efficiency of the C350e PHEV itself.
Driving Experience
Creeping out of the
new Mercedes-Benz HQ
, on electric power alone, is a mighty stylish affair, after all this is the best looking C-Class of all time, in my opinion, matched to one of the best drivetrains on sale.
With the full 100 percent of battery power available, we hope to thread the busy streets of Puchong in EV mode until traffic clears up toward the edge of town. Over a space of 10-odd kms, the cars uses up around 35 percent of its battery potential in E-Mode.
Once on the highway, we switched to Hybrid mode, to reduce dependency on the battery and since speeds were constant, it made sense to call the internal combustion engine into play. Speeds are kept at around 90km/h with the engine humming along at around 1400rpm in seventh gear.
The engine and gearbox medley is delightfully refined and the switching between EV and hybrid mode is almost imperceptible. Top speed in EV mode is limited to 130kph, and if one isn’t trying to conserve fuel, forcing the throttle all the way will also activate a ‘Boost’ mode in ‘kickdown’ mode – the electric-motor kicks-in another 60kW for a short period of time.

Related Articles

Review: 2017 Mercedes-Benz C350e (W205) – Paving Way To The Future

Reviews

October 21, 2020

2016 Mercedes-Benz C350e (W205) Launched In Malaysia; Avantgarde Trim, RM290k

Buying Guides

January 31, 2019

Spyshots: 2018 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W205) Facelift Shows Off New Design LED Headlights

Auto News

February 28, 2017

 If I have one bug bear with the C350e, it’s the brakes, which is forceful enough to slow the car down… rapidly, but requires a fair bit of pedal travel before it transitions from a regeneration phase into a braking phase, so I frequently passed my intended stop point, such as near toll booths and while in town – admittedly this takes some getting used to.
The Airmatic dampers otherwise do a superb job of managing the 1780kg kerb weight of the C350e, some 300kgs more than the C250, which utilises the same engine, but for the most part, the sensations from behind the wheel belie the overall heft of the car. Turn in is precise and body control during tighter bends is gradual and very progressive. In town or on the highway, it’s hard to fault the comfort and poise of the C350e.
For the most part, during our 60kms stint on the highway, we switched between the Charge and Hybrid modes, the larger plan was to have enough juice to finish the final 15kms on electric power alone, the fuel consumption hovers around 4.5 litres/100km according to the car's telemetry in Hybrid mode, at these speeds, and bumps up to circa 4.8 litres/100km when in Charge.
In hindsight, perhaps we had the car for far too long in Charge mode, reviving the battery from 35 percent after the first 30km, to 78 percent within 40km of that point. The 20km stretch between the PD toll and PD Township was completed in Hybrid mode, which comfortably brought the fuel consumption figures back to 4.6 litres/100km.
The last 5kms or so were easily despatched in full electric mode, we had overshot expectations, our car still had 15 percent of battery charge left when we completed the 90km journey. With hesitance, we handed the keys back to Mercedes-Benz knowing we could have eked quite a bit more range out of our car.
The best result on the day was a parsimonious 4.1 litres/100km, that team explained that they frequently switched between Charge and Hybrid mode depending on road conditions, and ran some distance without air-conditioning.
My car delivered 4.6 litres/100km at the end, which may seem less impressive in this company, but a tremendous result when compared to other cars within the segment. The C350e represent in fine fashion, the near future of high-efficiency motoring, the only downside, you’d have to enjoy noise from the Burmeister speakers on the inside.


Volvo Recharged For 2020 After Record-Breaking 2019, S60 CKD And S90 Facelift Coming

In conjunction with the launch of its new Volvo Car Regional Training Center at Symphony Square Petaling Jaya, Volvo announced that it had capped off a record-breaking year in 2019, going against market momentum to record a stellar year across the Volvo Group and also here in Malaysia.

In 2019, Volvo surpassed the 700,000 mark for the first time ever, with a total of 705,452 units sold around the world. Locally, Volvo Car Malaysia achieved a milestone of their own too, with the highest retail delivery to date, at 1,883 units.

Mr. Nalin Jain, Managing Director of Volvo Car Malaysia stated, “Even as the Malaysian premium segment is facing a decline, Volvo beat the odds and accomplished our highest ever year-on-year growth in retail delivery at 36.1% in 2019 compared to the previous year. We are definitely on the right trajectory and we are excited to show our customers what’s in store for the Volvo brand in 2020,”

Riding on this momentum, 2020 is slated to be another momentous year for Volvo with two new cars – the S60 T8 CKD and S90 Facelift – and a new dealership in Kota Kinabalu set to launch very soon.

Some other notable accomplishments of Volvo Car Malaysia in 2019 include:

Increased market share in Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) segment

Launched 3 new cars: XC40 T5 CKD, S60 T8, and XC90 Facelift

Launched 5 new dealerships: Setia Alam (Motion Beyond), Johor Bahru (Pekin Auto), Mutiara Damansara (Ingress Swede Automobile), Ipoh (iRoll Ipoh), and
Ara Damansara
 (Sime Darby Swedish Auto)

One of the first two markets to have a 100 percent Volvo Retail Experience dealership in APAC

The new Regional Training Centre is located in Symphony Square, Section 13 Petaling Jaya. This brand new space will play a pivotal role in annually delivering up to 7,500 man-days of training to staff and dealers from across the Asia Pacific region on technical and non-technical areas.

This training center and other shared services such as Finance Cluster, Technical Hub, and Procurement, which operate here, are expected to generate export service revenue of over RM100 million in the next 5-7 years.


More Expensive Taxi Fares Coming Soon? Sources Say 40% Hike On The Way

Following a fare restructuring by the Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD) that is due out this week, Taxis may be charging passengers a 40 percent higher price very soon. These changes would be most impactful in the Klang Valley, Penang, and Johor Bahru, where taxis are most frequently used.
From a report by
The Malay Mail Online
, these new fares were meant to be tabled sometime in late 2014, however following the floods in the east coast states of Peninsula Malaysia and the fuel price fluctuations in early January 2015, it was put on hold.
The as-yet unannounced rates are expected to be:
For budget taxis, between RM3.30 and RM4.00 for a flag-down fare in the Klang Valley, currently RM3.00.
For Penang, the budget taxi flag-down fare is currently RM4.00, and is expected to rise to RM4.30.
The new charges for distance and time elapsed could be raised as well, to RM1.25 per kilometre, an increase over the RM0.87 per price kilometre previously. And to RM0.25 for 30 seconds, increased from approximately RM0.15 for 30 seconds previously.
Altogether, these new prices will mean a significant increase in cab fares within city passengers who have to contend with being stuck in heavy traffic on a daily basis as the meter would charge RM30 per hour according to the new fares.
The Malay Mail’s source said this move is to encourage cabbies to operate within the city instead of meandering around suburban areas or outright ignoring certain locations due to heavy traffic as well as to bring fares in line with the high operation/maintenance costs and rise in cost of living that taxi drivers have had to deal with.
“Cabbies have had to curb high costs such as escalating maintenance cost between 20 per cent to 25 per cent, fuel expenses by 17 per cent, battery by 30 per cent to 35 per cent and tyres by 25 per cent to 30 per cent,” said The Malay Mail’s source.
Following the implementation of this new taxi fare rates, SPAD also plans to launch its Centralised Taxi Service System (CTSS) to all metered taxis, allowing them to record the location and fare charge data much more accurately.


Blood In The Water: Perez Wins Sakhir GP, But Russell Is The Hero

With the second F1 race at Sakhir now done and dusted, Sergio Perez takes home a win - but George Russell is what everybody is talking about.

When news broke that Lewis Hamilton had contracted COVID-19, motorsports fans were up in arms regarding the decision for a replacement driver. One of the favourites would have been German driver Nico Hulkenberg who has shown incredible consistency and performance whenever he was called upon through 2020, but it turned out that George Russell would be taking that coveted spot.

While Russell is no stranger to the race, he would have been a bit of an unknown being handed the reins of arguably the strongest Formula 1 car on the grid through this year. Mercedes-AMG did an incredible job with the development of their chassis and powertrains, and it's no surprise that their drivers have been able to leave the field behind. But even with all of that advantage, the team has not been without its slip-ups.

Last weekend's race at Sakhir was incredible, from practice to qualifying to the race itself. Immediately obvious was Russell's pace, despite his unfamiliarity with the car and the track. With an incredibly strong performance in qualifying, he just about managed to clinch second place on the grid, just a tenth of a second behind his teammate Valtteri Bottas. This in itself put incredible pressure on Bottas to perform, as he has been struggling through this year.

From the moment the lights went green, Russell snatched the lead from Bottas - following an incident that took out both Verstappen and Leclerc. Even following a restart, Russell managed to maintain his lead, stretching the lead to 1.8 seconds over Bottas by just the tenth lap of the race. A quarter of the way into the race, he's still maintaining that 1.8-second lead - and the pair of Mercedes-AMG drivers have stretched their lead out over the rest of the field by 9 seconds.

Bit by bit, the young British driver pulled his lead out over Bottas to 2.8 seconds by the midpoint of the race. Swapping off the mediums he started the race with and getting onto the hards, he stretches out a lead of 8.3 seconds once Bottas comes in to pit in lap 49. Both Mercedes-AMG drivers complained about a lack of power, and Bottas started closing the gap with Russell to under 6 seconds.

But as fate would have it, Russell's incredible performance would not last. Going into the last quarter of the race, two massive blunders by the Mercedes-AMG pit crew cost both Bottas and Russell the podium. The first saw Bottas going through a pit stop that lasted nearly thirty seconds because they didn't prep the right tyre compounds.

The second was even worse, as they had to stop Russell from going back out when they accidentally put mixed compounds on his car. What would have been an amazing victory for the British upstart turned into a nightmare when he exited the pits in sixth place - and the problems were only just beginning.

With fresh tyres on and fighting through the field, Russell managed to claw his way back up to third - smashing past Bottas and Stroll. Slipping past Ocon in lap 73 of 87, Russell was working furiously to close that 2.7 second gap with Perez in pole position. With just 2.1 seconds to Perez and 9 laps to go, Russell suffers a puncture - and the dream evaporates with it.

Perez drove clean for the remainder of the race, with Ocon and Stroll joining him on the podium. Bottas' chances of a win also vaporized as he had been forced to go back out of the pits on the same tyres he was on before - and they were basically dead by the time the race was drawing to a close. Russell limped home to a ninth place finish, but it was a joke of a result when you consider how well he fought.

And that's why while Perez and Ocon took home massive points for Team Racing Point, the world saw what George Russell was capable of. An incredible new, young talent - redeeming himself for his mistakes through this year and the last. Say what you will about his personality and his attitude, but there's no denying that the future is bright for Russell.

Perhaps it's also a big nod to Mercedes-AMG, again despite their horrible mistakes with this race. The team has produced championship winning cars, dominating the field and showing that even a somewhat fresh driver can hop in and run rings around their opponents. It's a shame that this wasn't the happy ending many had hoped for, but it opened the eyes of many.