2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe Launched – Priced From RM435,888

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has introduced the latest member of its Dream Cars collection – the all-new 2017 E-Class Coupe. Internally known as the C238 model series, the E-Class Coupe is offered to the Malaysian market in two variants, offered with the AMG Line trim as standard, priced as follows:
E200 Coupe AMG Line: RM435,888
E300 Coupe AMG Line: RM499,888
Additionally, buyers can upgrade to the limited-production Edition 1 spec E300 Coupe priced at RM534,888.
Two engine variants are available at launch, powered by the same 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder in different states of tune. The E200 Coupe delivers 184hp and 300Nm of torque, while the E300 Coupe generates 245hp and 370Nm of torque. Both variants distribute power to the rear wheels utilising the company’s (9G-Tronic) nine-speed conventional auto.
The E200 Coupe is claimed to complete the 0-100km/h sprint in 7.8 seconds, while the E300 requires just 6.4 seconds. The E200 Coupe will top out at 240km/h, the E300 Coupe will keep going to 250km/h.
In terms of fuel economy – the E200 Coupe is claimed to return 6.0litres/100km while the E300 Coupe manages 6.4litres/100km.
The major highlight of the all-new model is that it’s based on the same platform of the E-Class sedan,
eschewing norms
 set by the previous (C207) E-Class Coupe as well as the (C209) CLK-Class before it, which were all based on the smaller C-Class platform. The E-Class now measures 4628mm in length, a 123mm increment, width 1860mm, up 74mm and at 1430mm, 33mm wider than the model it replaces.
The larger E-Class platform also allows for a wider track, measuring 1605mm at the front, and 1609mm at the rear, which has improved driving dynamics.
The E-Class Coupe is offered as standard with ‘Agility Control’ suspension with passive adaptive damping. The E-Class Coupe’s suspension is set 15mm lower than on the sedan and is tuned for comfort with an amplitude-dependent damping system.
On the inside, two 12.3-inch displays with a (1920 x 720 pixel) resolution are merged under a single lens to produce the ‘Widescreen Cockpit’. The instrument cluster which shows virtual instruments can be represented in three different styles: "Classic", "Sport" and "Progressive".
All three variants are offered with the AMG Line interior package as standard – enabling buyers to highly contrasting Nappa leather interior combinations in black/classic red or black/deep white, all with horizontal seams. The E200 Coupe’s centre console features black ash wood trim, while the E300 Coupe is finished in gloss piano black. Note that the Burmester surround sound system is only offered in the E300 Coupe variants.
On the outside, the AMG Line exterior package adds highlights such as the AMG bodykit, diamond radiator grille with chrome pins and the large AMG light-alloy wheels. The E200 Coupe features 18-inch AMG 5-spoke wheels, while the E300 AMG Line and Edition 1 models wear 20-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels. Additional individualisation for the E300 Coupé comes courtesy of the 'Night Package' with a host of design details, such as the side mirror panels in high-gloss black.
The Edition 1 model, which is limited to 555 units worldwide, offers up the ‘Designo Magno’ matte-finished white paint, in addition to other subtle aesthetic highlights. On the inside, the Edition 1’s receives exclusive touches such as numbered plaque and floor mats with Edition 1 lettering.
In terms of connectivity, the E Class Coupe is equipped with the Comand Online – compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The E-Coupe allows further integration of the smartphone into the vehicle's infotainment system by means of capacitive aerial coupling and wireless charging. Using ‘Near Field Communication’ technology, the customer's smartphone can also potentially become a’ digital vehicle key’ with which the car can be locked and unlocked as well as started.
Click here to get an
in-depth review
 of the all-new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe.


BMW's The Hire Series – How BMW Created Viral Videos Before Youtube and Facebook Existed

It’s just three more days to go before BMW premieres ‘The Escape,’ a highly anticipated follow up to the hit short film of the 2000s, ‘The Hire.’ As before, Clive Owen will once again star as a getaway driver in a BMW.
The film’s premiere is also timed with the global debut of the all-new G30 generation BMW 5 Series, which will be driven by Clive in the first episode of ‘The Escape.’
The Escape will go live on bmwfilms.com on 23 October, 7 pm Malaysian time. While we wait for that, it’s worth looking back 15 years ago to revisit how BMW pioneered Internet short films and viral videos long before social media was even invented.
When it was first released in 2001, broadband Internet was limited to university campuses and high-end institutions. There were ISDN connections in other parts of the world but it’s less prevalent here at that time.
Everyone else had to make do with 56K dial-up modems, and it took hours to download one 10-minute episode of The Hire. Thumb drives haven’t been invented and I remember having to take my desktop computer apart, removing the IDE hard drive, and bringing it over to a friend’s place to copy/share the videos.
It was quite a hassle but it was worth it. The Hire was such a hit that it brought the BMW brand to the attention of a new group of youths who would otherwise not be bothered with cars. Friends who were normally not into cars, were asking for copies of the videos, handing over their hard drives, and later CD-RWs.
Seeing BMW’s success with Internet marketing, Audi and Mercedes-Benz tried to copy the same formula.
Seven years after The Hire’s premiere, Audi produced the ‘Meet The Beckers’ series to promote its B8 Audi A4, positioning the A4 as a car for progressive people, while poking fun at the stereotypes of BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Lexus drivers. However it didn’t quite catch on.
Three years later Mercedes-Benz commissioned the production of ‘The Heist’ to promote its W204 C-Class Coupe, and it was shot in Putrajaya! The film follows an awefully similar getaway car driver-esque type of plot.
The success of the The Hire can be traced back to an ex-Porsche marketer Jim McDowell and his creative agency Fallon McElligott.
It Started With James Bond
In 1992, McDowell left Porsche AG for BMW USA. He noted that while BMW has a great product range that will carry the brand through even when the market is slow, its advertising wasn’t up to standards, and he is convinced that the effects of a bad marketing strategy will only manifest itself five or seven years later so he is not going to sit around doing more of the same thing.
In 1994, he recruited his former agency from his days at Porsche, Fallon McElligot. The product placement for the BMW Z3 in Goldeneye in 1996 was the agency’s first major success for BMW. It certainly isn't the first product placement in a movie because Mercedes-Benz premiered the first generation ML-Class in Jurassic Park Lost World but what set the Z3’s placement apart was its coherent campaign, set just several months before the Z3’s market launch in the US.
The fact that a BMW is replacing Aston Martin as Bond's car of choice set off a controversy of sorts, which played well into BMW's interest as it created even more talking points for the brand.
The dialogue by Bond’s weapons specialist ‘Q’ to the MI-6 spy, “Now, pay attention, Bond. First your new car. A BMW…” was a crucial part of arrangement.
This was followed up by appearances of the Z8 and E38 750iL in subsequent Bond movies. McDowell had found a formula that works well for the brand.
At around that time, the Internet was beginning to change the way consumers, especially BMW customers, consume media content.
Airtime on TV channels was getting too cluttered and people were turning away from the mass media.
By 2000, the Internet was becoming a serious problem for BMW. The brand’s pressed for time target consumers were tuning themselves out of mass media but the company had not quite figured out how to market themselves on the Internet.
McDowell hated ugly banner ads and hideous pop-ups that directed users to a very corporate looking BMW website.
At the same time, success from placements in James Bond movies were tapering, and other manufacturers began copying the same formula (GM used The Matrix Reloaded to introduce the Cadillac CTS) so BMW figured it’s time to move on.
Besides, the car scenes in Bond movies, with elaborate weapons and all, was becoming a bit too cartoonish for BMW's liking.
It was time to rethink advertising beyond the mass media. McDowell sent an email to Fallon, saying “We’re taking the gloves off. Let’s get beyond thinking about ads.”
Beyond advertising
Fallon’s creative team put together a video featuring car chase scenes from movies like Ronin, Bullit and The French Connection. They were all less than 10 minutes and the agency believed that Internet short films is suited to BMW’s target customers, as many of them already have access to high speed Internet.
A decision was made to recruit A-list stars and A-list directors. Even though this was a BMW USA initiative, McDowell and Fallon were conscious to recruit directors from different nationalities to reflect the global nature of the Internet.
John Frankenheimer, Ang Lee, Wong Kar Wai, Guy Ritchie and Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu didn’t need much persuasion to jump on board as they loved the prospect of a short two-week shoot, 10-minute film.
Clive Owen was recruited as the main star, with Forrest Whitaker, James Brown and Madonna appearing in some of the episodes. Even Marilyn Manson made a cameo apperance!
In a move that will certainly raise eyebrows among marketers and management of less marketing savvy brands, BMW made a conscious decision to not direct viewers of the film back to BMW’s corporate website. Not only that, the films were not even hosted on BMW’s corporate website.
McDowell was firm in keeping the films at distance from any sales-related initiatives, believing that the success of the film project depends heavily on viewers not seeing the films as an advertisement. In fact, the directors were even told to shoot the films as they would with any of their movies, and not to ‘pamper’ the cars, or include 'beauty shots' as they normally would when shooting a TV commercial. The last thing McDowell wanted was to pay these A-list directors to produce yet another TV commercial.
The success was almost immediate. Media outlets that don’t normally talk about BMWs, were raving about the brand – entertainment publications, movie review columns, even Time magazine were talking about BMW.
Within just one week, traffic on BMW Films spiked from 138,000 unique visitors in the preceding week to 214,000, with 33 percent of them aged between 35 and 49, exactly within BMW’s target profile. Along the way, BMW also collected millions of e-mail addresses and other information about the film's viewers, information that would otherwise require BMW pushing an ad to them to collect.
After making The Ultimate Driving Machine as the
most recognisable tagline in the world
, The Hire is BMW's single most effective branding exercise.
Five films were produced for the first season, costing about 15 million US Dollars. It’s a rather good deal considering that the same number of 30-second TV ads will cost 1.5 million US Dollars.
The success of the first season spurred BMW to commission three more episodes for Season 2, this time involving John Woo, Joe Carnahan, and Tony Scott.
For his effort, McDowell was named Marketer of the Year by Automotive News in 2002, and was twice named Marketer of the Year by Brandweek Magazine.  The Advertising Club also named McDowell the 2003 Silver Medal Advertising Man of the Year.
"Traditional advertising will not go away, but we have to expand our palette of ways of reaching increasingly hard to reach people," said David Lubars, then the executive creative director at Fallons. "The way to reach these people is to have them reach you, and that requires an entirely new set of creative tools."
For this upcoming Season 3, BMW have assembled some of the brains behind the original The Hire series. According to a report by Automotive News, Fallon’s former creative director Bruce Bildsten is back, as are Executive Producer Brian DiLorenzo and creative consultant David Carter, who co-wrote the new film with director Neill Blomkamp. Anonymous Content's Eric Stern and Steve Golin, who were producers on the original round, also returned to produce the film.
The Escape, featuring the all-new
G30 BMW 5 Series
, will go live on
bmwfilms.com
 on 23 October, 7 pm Malaysian time. Curiously, bmwfilms.com does not explain the background of Clive Owen's character, Luc Velant. Below is a dossier written by the script writers:
Born in 1963 in Alencon, France, his wife and two children were killed in a terrorist car bombing in Algiers. Schooled at Harvard, he served in the French Foreign Legion Special Forces as a critical-mission driver/transporter. He was discharged in 1989. Since then, he has lived in Bangkok, participating in high-stakes, brake-knuckle extreme fighting competitions. He hires himself out to perform critical-mission driving jobs. He is highly sought after by persons in discretion-imperative, crisis and high-risk situations. CIA/Interpol is unable to ascertain how clients contract Velant or what his fees are, though they are estimated to be in excess of $75,000. While it has proven extremely difficult to track Velant as he moves among nations, it is hoped that he will lead CIA/Interpol to more significant suspects and/or fugitives. Velant is not guilty of any crime. While it is important to continue surveillance whenever possible, do not approach or attempt to apprehend.
Reference: Driven – Inside BMW, the Most Admired Car Company in the World, by David Kiley (ISBN 0-471-26920-4)


The Next BMW X1 May Have A 48V Electrical System

We're not even into the facelift of the current BMW X1, and the good folks over at
BMWBLOG
 are already talking about the next generation model. More specifically, sources within BMW have told them that the next model is going to adopt a 48V electrical system, much like other high end vehicles on the market. While there isn't word on when the systems will come to the broader BMW range, the 48V system will allow for mild-hybrid or full hybrid variants of the X1.
How a company goes about
 using a 48V system in practice
 is fairly varied. As mentioned earlier, it could be as simple as something used to start off at low speeds in order to greatly improve fuel consumption (a lot of it is used during stop and start operation). It could also be as complex as a full-on hybrid vehicle that can switch between electric mode and hybrid mode on the fly up to a particular speed.
Whatever the case, it's also confirmed that the next X1 will remain primarily front-wheel drive as it will sit on the UKL platform, with all-wheel drive options offered in the more expensive variants. There could also be room for a hybrid all-wheel drive in the form of the rear wheels being driven by the electric motors, as is the case with some hybrid all-wheel drive models on the market. The BMW X1 facelift, or LCI, has been spotted testing and will likely come to market next year.


LEAKED: Are These Initial Specs Of The 2015 Mazda 3 SkyActiv CKD?

So, we’ve just been handed this treasure, of something that looks like initial specifications of the coming 2015 locally-assembled
Mazda 3 SkyActiv
.
Having spoken to Bermaz – official distributor of
Mazda
 here – since we discovered this bit of information, it’s apparent that these specs are pretty accurate to the real deal that’s reported to make a local debut very soon, but they aren’t completely telling us everything about it.
First of all, only the Mazda 3 Sedan is listed here, in what looks like three possible variants of it: prices have strangely been blanked out from this document, but we’ve been told that the base model is expected to start from around the RM105k mark, while the high-spec variant of the Sedan may go all the way up to the current CBU from Japan’s RM138,966.
*UPDATE:
The right-most column you see below details the Mazda 3 CKD Hatchback model: the hatch will only be available in one variant, mid-spec, and won't get as many bells and whistles as the high-spec sedan, but will have more to offer than the base Sedan variant. It is expected to be priced roughly the same as the high-spec sedan.
If these are accurate to what’s coming our way, there’s seemingly lots to be excited about. Here’s what highlights we can make from this list:
MZD Connect
Rear-view camera
Smart Keyless entry (from base variant up)
Six airbags (from base variant up)
Head Up Display (HUD)
Lane Departure Warning
Smart City Brake System (SCBS)
Dynamic Stability Control (from base variant up)
Leather seats (only high-spec)
Paddle shifters (only high-spec)
For now, best be hanging on to your beliefs until we can provide you with more accurate details, actual brochures or anything further. Stay tuned.


Kia Malaysia Launches Kia Service Smartphone App

Naza Kia Malaysia, the official distributor of Kia vehicles in Malaysia, has launched a new smartphone app called the Kia Service App to improve on the brand’s aftersales service.
With Kia Malaysia’s newest online service system, Kia owners can now access appointment schedules and call back history as well as receive special offers and service updates.
Dato’ Samson Anand George, Group CEO, Automotive Group, Naza Corporation Holdings, adds “Kia has implemented this Service App globally and across ASEAN to further improve and ultimately enhance the Kia ownership experience. Kia owners have vibrant lifestyles and are always on the go. The Kia Service App is our way of staying connected to our customers for all their wants and needs. We are confident that this efficient and reliable service app will meet customer expectations.”

Kia owners simply have to download the Kia Service App on Google Play or the App Store, select country and complete a short registration before they can use the service. The service is applicable for all Kia models and across Naza Kia Malaysia’s nationwide network.


SPYSHOT: All-New 2016 Audi R8 Leaked Online

Audi will reveal its all-new R8 at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show but thanks to Instagram user dreboog and this spyshot, we won’t need to guess hard on what it will look like.
Borrowing strong influences from both the Nanuk and Quattro concepts, the new
Audi
 R8’s front-end features the car maker’s 6-point grille and large air intakes that sit just below the redesigned headlamps.
Continuing down the sides, it largely resembles the outgoing model but those side blades are now replaced with more regular looking air scoops. Sadly, the photo doesn’t reveal the design of the rims to be placed on it.
Beneath the metal, the 2016
Audi R8
 will rest on the
Lamborghini Huracan’s
 underpinnings. Engine options on offer are rumoured to be a V8 along with a revised version of the 5.2-litre V10.
We’ll have to wait until March at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show for more details about the all-new Audi R8.


Volvo And Geely To Setup New Tech-Sharing Venture

Volvo Cars today signed an agreement with parent company Geely Holding to set up a joint venture for the sharing of existing and future technology, in line with the former’s mission to fully electrify its vehicles by 2019.
According to the MoU signed today, Volvo Cars, Geely Auto and Lynk & Co will share vehicle architecture and engine technologies via cross licensing arrangements of technologies managed by the new joint venture.
The agreement also states that the joint venture will be owned 50/50 by Volvo Cars and Geely Holding, with a headquarters in China and a subsidiary in Gothenburg, Sweden.
“Partnerships to share know-how and technologies are common practice in the automotive industry. This is the model we are adopting,” said Håkan Samuelsson, president and chief executive. “This planned collaboration will strengthen Volvo’s ability to develop next generation electrified cars.”
Volvo Cars and Geely already share technology, most notably the Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) which is being used by Volvo Cars for its soon-to-be-announced smaller range of 40 series cars and by Lynk & Co.
It is expected that the collaboration will be extended in future to also cover electrified vehicle components such as battery cells, e-motors and charging systems in order to maximize synergies across the group.
Separately, it was also announced that Volvo would take a significant minority shareholding in Lynk & Co.


Selangor Government Wants Explanation On LDP, Kesas Toll Hike

As the
toll hike
 takes hold of
17 highways
 today, one can almost hear the collective grumbles of the many motorists having to shell out the extra cash, one by one. The Selangor government, it seems, isn’t in full agreement with at least some of these increases, writes The Star.
Particularly, they are calling for two state-owned companies to explain the toll hikes concerning the Kesas and Lebuhraya Damansara-Puchong (LDP) highways. They are Selangor State Development Corporation (PKNS) and Kumpulan Perangsang (KPS), respectively.
At the moment, it is not confirmed if there will be a toll hike for the Kesas highway. However, the LDP and the SPRINT highway motorists will be paying more starting today.
Selangor Mentri Besar Azmin Ali said PKNS and KPS would be required to brief the the Selangor Economic Action Council (MTES) today. He said in a posting on Facebook yesterday: "I have ordered PKNS and KPS, who have minor stake in Kesas and LDP, to be present at MTES tomorrow,”
"MTES will look into the feedback from PKNS and KPS. The state government has a clear policy against any toll hike that burdens the rakyat."
You can get a full picture of which tolls have been affected by the hike, and how much they have upped their rates
here
.
 The Selangor state government owns 30 percent of the Kesas highway through PKNS and 20 percent in both the SPRINT highway and the LDP through Kumpulan Perangsang.


KL City Centre Roads To Shut Down This Weekend For 27th ASEAN Summit

During the 27th ASEAN Summit being held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, which starts today and will last until Sunday the 22nd, several roads will have to be shut to allow for various security reasons.
A Bernama report says that due to the sensitive logistical nature of having many world leaders and important delegates from the participating nations all converging on one location, guaranteeing their safety becomes a top-level concern.
During a press conference, city traffic police chief ACP Mohd Nazri Hussain listed the names of the roads involved during the Summit-related closure, naturally they are roads in close proximity to the KL Convention Centre.
They include: Jalan Binjai heading to Persiaran KLCC; Jalan Imbi to Jalan Bukit Bintang; Jalan Raja Chulan to Jalan Bukit Bintang; Jalan Kia Peng to Lorong Perak and Jalan Raja Chulan to Lorong Perak, Jalan Nagasari to Jalan Raja Chulan; Jalan Sultan Ismail to Jalan Ampang; Jalan Ampang to Jalan P.Ramlee; Jalan Ampang to Jalan Binjai; Jalan Sultan Ismail to Jalan P.Ramlee and Jalan Raja Chulan to Persiaran Raja Chulan.
On Saturday, November 21st, the roads will see closures from between 7.40am and 9am that morning and 7.15pm to 8.50pm that evening.
Should the need to travel around the Kuala Lumpur city centre be an imperative, Mohd Nazri suggested that motorists plot alternative routes through roads such as Jalan Kia Peng, Jalan Stonor, Jalan Tun Razak, Lorong Lumba Kuda, Jalan Yap Kwan Seng, Jalan Hang Tuah, Jalan Raja Chulan, Jalan Tun Perak, and Jalan Pudu to reach their destinations. Alternatively, the Kelana Jaya line LRT is available and, to a lesser extent, the Ampang Line LRT.
"Motorists are advised to plan their journey and obey all traffic laws and instructions from the police. It is best that they avoid the roads mentioned. Parking by the roadside at these roads is strictly prohibited. Offenders will have their vehicles towed away," he added.


New Volkswagen Golf Mk 7.5 Teased - Imminent Launch In Malaysia?

Well, what do we have here? It appears that Volkswagen Malaysia is set to introduce the updated Golf lineup, including the Golf TSI, Golf GTI, and Golf R as they have opened the registration of interest for the new lineup.
Differentiating the new Golf from the model it replaces are its new front and rear bumpers, new LED headlights plus new tri-bar LED tail lights.
From the teaser image, the Golf TSI is shown with the 1.4 TSI wording, indicating that our new Golf TSI will soldier on with the same updated 1.4-litre TSI unit from before. There's also a new 1.5-litre TSI Evo engine, but that engine is exclusive only to Europe, not available even to markets like USA, Japan, and Australia.
As for the Golf GTI, the previous model's 2.0-litre turbocharged TSI engine is retained. In Europe, output levels have been raised to 245 PS, 25 PS more than before, paired to a new 7-speed DSG transmission. However specifications for the local model have yet to be confirmed.
The more powerful Golf R outputs 310 PS and 370 Nm from its 2.0-litre turbocharged TSI engine. The European market Golf R features a 7-speed DSG, though this may not represent Malaysia-bound units.
Inside, the new Golf Mk 7.5 can be had with the Active Info Display full digital meter cluster, much like the new Passat B8. The infotainment system is also new, updated to feature Volkswagen’s new Modular Infotainment Matrix (MIB) system. Customers can opt for several screen sizes, with the entry-level model featuring a 6.5-inch display. Larger 8.0-inch and 9.2-inch systems are optional.
Earlier, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) confirmed that the new Golf Mk 7.5 lineup will be launched here within the first half of the year. Seeing that the teaser is already up on VPCM’s site, we reckon the launch could happen within the next few months.


Tesla CEO On Dieselgate: “We’ve Reached The Limits Of Diesel And Gasoline”

Regarding the recent
Volkswagen
 emissions rigging scandal, Elon Musk - Chief Executive Officer of American electric car manufacturer Tesla Motors – has expressed his two cents on what it all means to him, to Tesla, and for the automotive industry.
In speaking to some members of the press while the CEO was visiting Belgium recently, he was asked what were his thoughts on the Volkswagen scandal and “whether people might lose their faith in green technology,”.
Musk’s response was that, in his opinion, the opposite would occur, implying that the public might more readily consider alternative energy vehicles as opposed to fossil fueled options, no matter how much carbon emissions are gradually reduced and/or advances in internal combustion are made.
He said:
“What Volkswagen is really showing is that we’ve reached the limits of what’s possible with diesel and gasoline. I think the time has come to move to a new generation of technology.”
Tesla has also recently opened its first European manufacturing plant in the Dutch city of Tilburg, pictured above. There, the automaker will assemble Model S sedans and Model X crossovers using parts machined in its California factory.
Some publications have mused about how the European push is particularly important and potentially lucrative for Tesla, with the upcoming introduction of the
Model X
 being integral in changing the perceptions and capitalising on a population still reeling from their shaken trust in clean diesel technology.
As an example,
Bloomberg
 wrote that Tesla “may see a bounce from the growing ‘dieselgate’ scandal that has engulfed VW and cast a shadow on the German auto industry”.
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The World Needs To Care About Tesla’s New Powerwall, Powerpack, and Gigafactory


First Look: 2020 Honda City RS i-MMD Hybrid In Malaysia

This is the incoming future range-topper, the 2020 Honda City RS i-MMD, and it’s intention is to shake up the B-segment with some next-level powertrain and tech features.

You’ve no doubt seen the
advert
 in which this new City, equipped with Honda’s newest i-MMD (Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive) hybrid system, overtakes pretty much every car the producers could get their hands on.

Following that, the internet’s response was:

“Honda - The Power of Torque”

“i-VTORQUE Kick In Yo!”

It was to illustrate the real world benefits of an electric motor, that surging torque and immediate power, at least from an acceleration and ‘power’ point of view. That’s to match the City’s newest variant, the RS, which is a moniker we’re more used to seeing on high performance Renaults and Porsches.

This is merely a preview, but this car’s Malaysian launch, which is projected during Q4 2020, will also be the worldwide preview of Honda’s new hybrid drivetrain making its debut in the City - a true world’s first. Another new addition to the City's growing list of talents is Honda LaneWatch, allowing the driver to see what might be in their blind spot by way of cameras mounted on the car’s side mirror stalks.

This new hybrid drive system differs from the i-DCD (Intelligent Dual Clutch Drive) hybrid found in the existing City Hybrid, Jazz Hybrid, and the HR-V Hybrid due to its use of two electric motors. The first of this pair acts as a generator while the other is a ‘traction’ motor. The end result is more power and even better fuel economy, though Honda hasn't disclosed how much yet.

Going forward, the
2020 Honda City RS i-MMD
 is also expected to be the only one offered as a hybrid, leaving the remaining S, E, and V variants to likely seek drive from a 1.5-litre i-VTEC naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, mated to a CVT.

If you've been following this car closely, you'll know that our neighbours in Thailand instead received this B-segment sedan with a 1.0-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder engine, but Honda isn’t yet divulging any additional information about the City's
i-MMD
 hybrid apart from its impressive peak torque figure of 253Nm, which is unheard of in this class of vehicle.

Right off the bat, there’s definitely more that’s still unknown about this car than there has been revealed. We get a clear view of the car’s exterior, which is a marked improvement over the outgoing model, especially in the flesh with its sharp 16-inch wheels, LED headlights/tail lights, and all-round disc brakes , but we’ve already been given a taste of this new City since its Bangkok debut back in late 2019, replete in its ‘RS’ skin.

That said, Honda does note that the car pictured here isn’t fully representative of the final spec that will be in our showrooms. There is still room for changes in exterior accents, however, albeit minor, and even these are relegated to tweaks below the bumper.

No, we sadly weren’t allowed inside the car. You’ll also notice that the windows on this preview unit have been fully blacked out to keep our prying eyes from reading into what’s on offer. We suspect this is partially due to this not being the final version we’ll eventually be getting, but also because Honda themselves would like build more anticipation for the full launch by staggering the release of details.

That’s a bit of a shame as, arguably, the most significant generational improvements lie with the new City’s interior. From what has been revealed about the car internationally, we know it’s a big step forward from the outgoing model’s cabin, which was functional and very spacious but has started to look and feel dated.

Overall, Honda is playing their cards very close to the chest with the 2020 Honda City RS i-MMD, which means we’ll have to wait for crucial points of information such as a full feature rundown as well as pricing. From what we’ve seen so far, though, there’s lots to be excited about.


New Mercedes-AMG C63S Range Launched In Malaysia – Priced From RM 768,888

Following Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s launch of the new and facelifted locally-assembled range of Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedans (C200, C300, and C43) late last year, the company has now completed its renewal of the C-Class range with the fully imported Mercedes-AMG C63S, available in both sedan and coupe form.
The C63S sedan is priced from RM 768,888, while the coupe variant is priced from RM 820,888. Both models are imported from Mercedes-Benz’s plant in Bremen, Germany.
At the heart of both models is a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 that pumps out 510 hp and 700 Nm, allowing for the century sprint to be completed in just 3.9 seconds and 4.0 seconds, for the sedan and coupe respectively.
The 9-speed AMG SpeedShift automatic transmission helps send all 510 hp and 700 Nm to the rear wheels. Part of the AMG experience is the AMG Dynamic Select, with various drive modes including Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Slippery, Individual, and Race, the latter new to the C63S range.
Standard equipment on both the C63S sedan and coupe include:
19-inch AMG cross-spoke forged alloy wheels
AMG exterior carbon fibre package
AMG Night package
AMG lip spoiler
AMG Performance Exhaust System
Adaptive Highbeam Assis Plus
Red brake calipers
AMG carbon fibre and light grain aluminium interior trim
AMG Nappa leather upholstery
AMG Performance steering wheel
AMG Performance seats
10.25-inch Comand online infotainment system
12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
Burmester surround sound system
Android Auto, Apple CarPlay
Head-up display
“The new generation C63S is the cornerstone of the AMG portfolio. It is a combination of perfected driving dynamics, expressive design and its signature feature. These two redefine performance in a very bold way with the immensely powerful eight-cylinder 4.0-litre bi-turbo engine giving that unmistakable sound,” said Mark Raine, Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.
Looking for a Mercedes-Benz? Check out the best deals
here
.


KLIMS 2018: 3M Malaysia Introduces New Scotchlite Print Wrap Film

3M Malaysia has introduced its new line of Scotchlite Print Wrap Film 780mC-10R, which adds sparkle and shine to car wraps.
The new Scotchlite Print Wrap Film utilizes glass beads or cube corners to reflect light back to the source as the beaded reflective films typically use a very thin layer of aluminium placed behind the glass bead.
“We are truly excited to introduce this revolutionary car wrap to visitors at KLIMS 2018. This reflective film boasts increased conformability and heat recovery along with wide angle visibility to ensure the final product shines day or night. With almost 100 years of automotive industry experience, we consistently push the boundaries of how consumers use automotive products, and we look forward to what can be achieved in years to come,” said Parameswaran Nair, Managing Director or 3M Malaysia.
In addition to its new Scotchlite Print Wrap Film, 3M Malaysia also showcased its Scotchshield Crystalline Security AutoFilm and three new colors for its 3M Auto Wrap Film Series 1080.
Visitors can also take part in the ‘Guess and Win’ contest where they stand a chance to win a 3M Vehicle Air Purifier Plus. In addition to that, 3M Malaysia is also giving away free phone racing stripes using the newly-introduced Gloss Flip Ghost Pearl Auto Wrap. With every purchase of a 3M car wrap or car tinting package with a minimum booking fee of RM500, customers will be able to enter a luck draw contest, which will be a full transformation package of the winner’s car with:
3M Auto Wrap
3M Auto Film
3M Nomad Car Mat
3M Paint Protection Film for headlights


DBKL bersedia hadapi banjir ketika PRU15

Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur (DBKL)
 telah bersedia untuk sebarang kemungkinan berlaku banjir kilat pada hari pengundian bagi Pilihan Raya Umum ke-15 Sabtu ini.

DBKL siap sedia hadapi banjir ketika PRU15

*Kredit foto: Berita Harian

Datuk Bandar Kuala Lumpur Datuk Seri Mahadi Che Ngah berkata pihaknya telah menyediakan sebuah bilik gerakan di Menara DBKL 1 bagi memantau cuaca di ibu negara.

Tambah beliau, pihaknya turut dibantu oleh Jabatan Pengairan dan Saliran, Jabatan Meteorologi Malaysia dan Sistem Pelbagai Bahaya yang diketuai oleh seorang profesor daripada Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia.

Mahadi menjelaskan bahawa agensi-agensi tersebut akan membantu dari segi membuat ramalan dan panduan mengenai keadaan cuaca seperti taburan hujan, kelebatan hujan serta kawasan yang berisiko banjir.

Daripada data itu, DBKL akan membuat tindakan seterusnya seperti meletakkan beg pasir tambahan berhampiran sungai, bergantung kepada situasi.

Mahadi berkata DBKL turut menjalin kerjasama dengan Alam Flora Sdn Bhd (Alam Flora) dan Perbadanan Pengurusan Sisa Pepejal dan Pembersihan Awam (SWCorp) dalam memantau sistem perparitan bagi memastikan ia berfungsi dengan baik serta tidak tersumbat.

"Kita juga mempunyai warden trafik yang bukan sekadar menjalankan tugas menyurai aliran trafik ataupun menguatkuasakan undang-undang tetapi juga melaksanakan sesuatu yang di luar jangkaan," katanya

"Kita sentiasa bersedia untuk menghadapinya," katanya kepada pemberita selepas majlis penyerahan surat tawaran penyewaan/menduduki Residensi Sungai Udang di Segambut baru-baru ini.


MINI Clubman Sterling Edition Returns – RM269k, 40 Units Available For Booking Online

MINI Malaysia today announced the return of the MINI Clubman Sterling Edition due to popular demand.
First introduced in August 2017
, the Clubman Sterling Edition was limited to only 20 units - all of which were sold in just two weeks after it was announced.
This time around, MINI Malaysia has increased the number to 40 units, which will be available for booking online at a
dedicated website
 from 11 January 2018.
On the exterior, the Clubman Sterling Edition is clad in Melting Silver body colour with a subtle Matte ‘Black Jack’ mirror caps and roof décor, and comes with Black Union Jack symbols on the side scuttles, and bespoke 18-inch ‘MINI Yours Masterpiece’ wheels in burnish black.
Inside, the cabin comes in a combination of Indigo Blue and Pure Burgundy colours, with the MINI Yours Illuminated Interior which allows the owner to choose from 12 pre-set colours to the trims.
Also unique to the model are the Chester Leather seats with Indigo Blue upholstery and the Walknappa leather steering wheel.
Other features include Parking Assist, rear-view camera, MINI Connected infotainment system with navigation, MINI Excitement package, dual-zone climate control system, and the Keyless Go feature.
And then there is the latest generation of MINI Touch Screen Display which supports multi-touch with pinch to zoom in functionality for maps and typing. The clean and modern user interface also features brand new animations.
Han Sang Yun, Managing Director and CEO of BMW Group Malaysia said, “Within two weeks of its introduction, the limited-edition MINI was fully booked online thus proving that Malaysians appreciate the exclusivity of exceptionally well-made premium cars.”
“Because of the successful response, the Clubman Sterling Edition will make a comeback in celebration of the New Year, and with new technology for an even more unique experience.
The MINI Clubman Sterling Edition is priced at RM268,888 (OTR without insurance) and requires a booking fee of RM2,000 from those interested. The car also comes with the MINI 4 Years Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Scheduled Service.


Toyota Shows Off Vios’ Sporty Side In Action-Packed TVC

UMW
Toyota
 Motor has released the first look at their new TVC campaign with the launch of the Pulse of Action video for their ubiquitous compact sedan, the Vios. The campaign, at least in its first outing, intends to show off the
Vios
’ more dynamic and sporty side.
There's got a lot going on during the one minute commercial - four Vios’ take on urban Malaysia and drift impressively around Putrajaya while a quartet of skydivers chase them down. And there’s even a pretty girl.
The campaign itself was brought to screen by film director Ryo Miyakoshi and Director of Photography Hiromi Tsushima and features professional stunt drivers from team Chiba of Japan behind the wheel of the four sideways Vios’.
Akio Takeyama, Deputy Chairman, UMW Toyota Motor said, “Our intention is to communicate to the people of the Vios’ advanced handling abilities and controllability. This is what we are demonstrating through this commercial.”
The campaign will also be supplemented by four additional videos that show what went on behind the scenes to create the 60-second show, with interviews with the Japanese drivers and perspective from UMW Toyota Motor’s top management.
Additionally, the four cars used in the TVC are currently seeing more action at the UMW Toyota Motor WOW 2 Road Tours along with other on-ground activities on selected dates. There, the public will be able to witness and experience first-hand the Vios’ driving capabilities and its improvements in comfort and performance.
Commenting on the launch of “The Pulse of Action” campaign, Datuk Ismet Suki, President of UMW Toyota Motor, said: “The Toyota Vios model has been given a ‘stylish look’ treatment on top of other improvements in performance and comfort, which will hopefully results in new-found enthusiasm for the model among younger Malaysians.”


Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV Tyres Launched In Malaysia - 17 to 23-Inches, From RM700

Michelin Malaysia today expanded its product lineup with the introduction of the Pilot Sport 4 SUV tyre for Sports Utility Vehicles.

Developed with a new compound that incorporates innovative functional elastomers and thin silica, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV features a new asymmetrical groove design which does not only rigidify the tread pattern, but also provides excellent grip during cornering.

The tyre also features a hybrid belt made of aramid and nylon which provides a dynamic steering responsiveness, as well as rigid tread blocks and a high-density double casing ply which makes the tyre robust.

Compared to other premium SUV tyres, Michelin claims that the Pilot Sport 4 SUV offers better handling in the wet, better braking during dry conditions, and also longevity of up to 13,000 km more than its competitors.

Available at all Tyreplus and Michelin authorised dealers across the nation, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV tyres are offered in sizes ranging between 17- and 23-inch diameters with price beginning from RM700 per piece (17-inch). Rim protectors are also available on all dimensions.

Pascal Nouvellon, the managing director of Michelin Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Brunei said, “The Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV completes our well-established Pilot Sport family with the latest motorsport technologies and intelligent enhancements to provide unlimited driving pleasure in total safety. The new tyres feature an improved tread pattern and a new tyre compound for better grip and wet braking – staying true to the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV tagline, “Out there, you are always in control.”


Porsche says one-pedal driving is inefficient, there are better ways!

Porsche has tooted their horn and announced that one-pedal driving in electric vehicles is not efficient.

When Nissan first introduced one-pedal driving in 2010, it gave their Leaf electric vehicle a feature which recaptures energy usually lost during braking.

This is achieved through regenerative braking, which helps to recharge the EV's battery, even if it is only just a little. Since then, many other EV manufacturers, including Tesla and Volvo, have also incorporated one-pedal driving features into their vehicles.

But according to Porsche, this isn't very efficient, and they said there's a better way to go further with an electric car.

What is this better way? Well, according to the Stuttgart-based manufacturer, coasting as much as possible is a much better way to prolong your EV's driving range.

According to an article published by insideevs, Porsche says this is “the more natural process of allowing the vehicle to continue to roll unpowered.”

“This is a more efficient way of driving because it keeps the kinetic energy in the vehicle,” said Martin Reichenecker, Senior Manager Chassis Testing at Porsche Engineering, in a recent press release. The German carmaker emphasizes that one-pedal driving recuperates first and only then converts the recovered energy back into propulsion, which “results in twice the losses,” adds Reichenecker.

Porsche is not all bark and no bite because their
Taycan
 and upcoming
Macan EV
 will not feature one-pedal driving. According to Porsche, however, there is still a point to friction braking, but it's not to recapture energy.

Porsche says that up to 90% of everyday braking can be done using the electric motors alone(friction braking), without activating the hydraulic braking system. The upside of this is that you save wear on the hydraulic brake system, potentially saving you from changing them often.


Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival Season 3 Kicks Off This September

When Toyota Gazoo Racing first came to Malaysia back in 2017, there was a lot of apprehension and intrigue surrounding their plans - and a lot of critics of such an ambitious program. The Vios Challenge race series had been something which was becoming vastly popular in other parts of South East Asia, including Thailand and the Philippines, and we had long wondered when Malaysia would see the same treatment.
Fast forward to 2019 and two seasons of racing have passed, with Toyota's "kaizen" approach of continuous incremental improvement helping to streamline their events and make them more appealing for fans and racecar drivers alike. Season two even saw the inclusion of a round at Sepang International Circuit, which proved to be a popular choice and will also be present in the coming third season that kicks off in September.
The Promotional class will see two newcomers - Ain Edruce, and Syafiq Kyle - along with defending champion Diana Danielle, the ever popular Janna Nick, Nabil Ahmad, Khai Bahar, Nabila Razali, and both Shawn Lee and Shukri Yahya who were competing in the Sporting class for season two. While the Promotional class may not be the top tier in terms of outright speed, it also happens to be the most competitive class with drivers being more keen to take risks - making for some exciting racing.
Beyond that, Toyota Gazoo Racing has plenty of reasons to be proud. The variety of drivers aross the Sporting and Super Sporting classes is incredible, from young talent making the move from karting to saloon car racing, to rally drivers, and even drivers with endurance, time-attack, and Formula car experience. The beauty of a one-make race is that no driver gets a particular advantage, and as such the racing is really down to the drivers themselves.
Season 3 promises to be more entertaining as the first festival on the calendar roughly coincides with the introduction of the all-new Gazoo Racing Supra. This halo model for the brand will be making its rounds around the country as the season progresses, in addition to the GR Garage which will be set up at six dealerships around the country with the express purpose of selling the Supra and other Gazoo Racing models.
The last few months have also seen Gazoo Racing pushing their Velocity E-Sport series which will continue for the coming season. Over 400 participants took part in this highly competitive race with some serious prizes up for grabs, being far more accessible than physical racing but quite nearly as technically demanding.
To find the best deals on a Toyota model, click
here
.


Nissan Isn’t Pulling Punches With The Ariya EV - Teased Again

Nissan is hyping up their “New Chapter”, which opens with the Ariya - a stylish dual-motor fully electric crossover.

We’re about a decade and a half since the rise of the semi-daily drivable fully electric car, and each year the collective baseline of technology lifts slightly, making these kinds of vehicles a little more accessible and more appealing to the average car buyer.

Yet, even owning an EV is still seen as somewhat ‘out there’. You’re a rebel, an early adopter, risking your hard earned money for a tomorrow that we’re only half ready for at best. Arguably, Nissan, of all automakers, has been among the most successful in bringing electric cars to the masses with the Leaf. Its sister company, Renault, also offers a minimal-fuss entry point into EVs with the Zoe.

They’ve kept things fairly grounded so far. However, at the
 2019 Tokyo Motor Show
, Nissan rolled out the Ariya: a concept vehicle with unmistakable crossover vibes that definitely straddled the high end. There, the company’s representatives made no bones about its ambition either, so it was only a matter of time until the Ariya, in its production form, would attempt a raid on the Tesla empire.

Now that we’re into the 2nd half of 2020, Nissan has had some clear air to consolidate its plans for the finished version, which it plans to premiere within this short term span - July 15th, to be precise. And it’s looking promising.

There are only a couple of teaser videos so far but given that all indications point to surprisingly little being changed over the concept version from late last year, we can expect a rather sleek and futuristic looking and high-riding zero emissions machine, built on a Nissan’s new dedicated EV platform.

It probably won’t carry over the concept version’s 21-inch blade-style wheels, but that lower tapering roofline and bold V-Motion front fascia should make it past the pre-production stage. The Ariya also deftly blends familiar design cues with the more experimental, and overall the car would look adequately ‘next-gen’, even premium.

However, it was the interior that really impressed upon the concept’s debut, and thankfully we should see most of that translate into the showroom-ready model as well. The dashboard and usual control surfaces apart from the steering wheel, foot pedals, and climate control buttons have been replaced with haptic touch points.

Unfortunately, Nissan has yet to disclose any details on the Ariya’s powertrain and was equally silent during the concept car’s reveal last year, only saying that drive will be distributed between all wheels and through a pair of electric motors. In that case, we should be expecting some impressive acceleration figures too.

The Ariya will most definitely be a technical showcase for Nissan as well as a statement of their abilities, but it won’t be alone in the semi-premium small electric crossover arena, of course, as it will have to share the field with - most notably - the Tesla Model Y and Volkswagen ID Crozz. However, there’s also the Hyundai Kona Electric, Kia Niro EV, and, at the higher end, the Volvo XC40 Recharge Let them fight.


GALLERY: Proton Iriz R3 Race Car Shows First Full Frontal Image, And More

If you’re a close follower of the local motorsports scene, it probably wouldn’t come to much of a surprise to you that
Proton
 Motorsports are gearing up for the coming Malaysian Championship Series with a new racer: the
Proton Iriz
 R3 Race Car.

Details are extremely scarce at the moment, but Proton Motorsports have finally unveiled the first frontal image of the complete racer as it is undergoing its shakedown session at the Sepang International Circuit.

The Proton Iriz R3 you see here is headed for competition in the Malaysian Touring Car category for 1,600cc, naturally-aspirated vehicles, and by the looks of it, is miles away from the Proton Iriz we know to roam public city streets.

On its Facebook page, Proton Motorsports said, “Its finally out and testing for the first time. We are hopeful for some good times and feedback to further improve the car for the weekend. The iriz being an inherently nimble and good handling car should translate well as a race car.”

For instance, the interior is nearly completely stripped out and replaced with race gear: roll cage, bare metal bones, Sparco racing steering wheel, Recaro racing seats, and a full-on manual transmission.

The dashboard looks relatively intact, but stripped entirely of its infotainment and air-conditioning items.

On the outside, and going off the latest picture shared by Proton Motorsports just moments ago, the front-end of the car is still equipped with its projector headlamps, chrome grille and all, retaining a very stock look at first glance. A second glance reveals that a huge front splitter has been added, and on the bonnet, you can spot a set of bonnet pins/ clips. Those tyres are pretty much all about maximum traction.

Around the rear, the brake light cluster of the Iriz is left untouched, with boot pins/ clips also seen the better secure the hatch. Don’t be fooled into thinking that the two circular items around the back are exhausts though: they’re part of a quick-refuelling system fitted to the Proton Iriz R3.

How would you like to see Proton turn this track-minded Iriz R3 into something a little more road-friendly, and throw in a properly turbocharged engine to it?

Looking to buy a Proton Iriz?
Carlist.my has them from RM35k
 and up.


You don't need a high IQ to know that BMW is a top brand

Consumer Reports has just crowned BMW as their top auto brand.

A recent research by Scrap Car Comparison has found that BMW and Land Rover drivers have the lowest IQs - and while their research seems to think that these people are just a bunch of knuckleheads, we think BMW drivers are just buying BMWs because they are
simply one of the best cars around.

Well, let's take a look at Consumer Reports' latest findings, where they have just completed their annual list of top auto brands. It seems there is some merit behind the idea that BMW drivers are just buying BMWs because they are a top auto manufacturer.

According to Carscoop, who has access to Consumer Reports' full findings, the Bavarian automaker has snatched first place for the first time in Consumer Reports' annual list of top brands.

They knocked Subaru off the perch, jumping up two spots from the findings in previous years. The overall score was given by collating data from their own findings and customer feedback, based on four key factors, a road test, reliability, owner satisfaction, and safety.

"BMW builds many high-performing, full-featured, and reliable models, so it's not surprising to see it at the top of our brand rankings," said Jake Fisher, senior director of automotive testing at Consumer Reports.

"But non-luxury brands like Subaru, Toyota, and Mazda have also consistently ranked high over the past few years, ensuring that consumers don't have to sacrifice affordability to get a high-quality car."

It also seems that BMW Group is generally producing good quality cars, as
sister brand MINI
 has also climbed up the table, jumping five spots and moving up to third.

The rest that makes up the top part of the table is predictably full of Japanese auto manufacturers, but it is surprising to see Toyota not making the top 5, as they are placed underneath Subaru, Lexus and Honda, respectively.

However, CR's report doesn't allow us to defend Land Rover owners, as they are placed all the way down in the 32nd spot, with one point being the difference between them and Jeep, who sit in the 31st spot.

They always say you buy a Land Rover with your heart and not with your head, so perhaps Scrap Car Comparison's findings are true about Land Rover drivers.


Honda Malaysia On Course To Hit 100,000-unit Target For 2017

Honda Malaysia is on course to reach its 2017 target of 100,000 units. Honda Malaysia Managing Director and CEO, Mr. Toichi Ishiyama said the company has achieved overall sales of more than 98,200 units for the period of January to November 2017. In fact, this figure of 11-months sales has already surpassed their 2016 total sales which was just below 92,000 units.
This is an increase of 22% or 17,800 units versus the same 11-month period last year. The large increase in sales is contributed by the newly-launch Honda BR-V, all-new Honda CR-V as well as the refreshed line-up of Honda City and Honda Jazz plus the updated Honda Accord with Sensing.
Mr. Ishiyama shared the news during Honda Malaysia’s official opening of its biggest Honda 3S Centre in East Malaysia. The opening of this Honda 3S Centre in Miri, Sarawak operated by SYK RW Motor Sdn. Bhd. adds to the tally of seven Honda dealerships in the state.
“We would also like to reach more customers from different areas especially those residing in satellite towns to enable them to experience the Joy of Buying.” added Mr. Ishiyama.
SYK RW Motor Sdn. Bhd. has invested RM7 million into the development of 48,000 square feet facility in Jalan Cahaya, Miri. Its professional technicians and latest equipment are capable of handling up to 40 cars per day.
At the workshop section, a total 12 service bays consists of 7 fast service, 2 bays each for general repairs and tyre service and an air conditioning service bay.  A comfortable Customer Lounge greets owners and customers, together with an Executive Lounge, Kid’s Corner, Surau as well as a variety of food and beverages.
With the opening of SYK RW Motor’s Honda 3S, together with earlier new 3S openings in East Coast, Central and Southern regions, Honda Malaysia now has 91 service centres nationwide.


Fully Electric E-308 Is Peugeot’s Newest Smooth Operator

The newest fully electric hatchback to emerge from France comes from Peugeot, specifically the long awaited fully electric version of their C-segment hatchback -
the 3rd-generation 308
. At least in Europe, it’s accompanied by a longer and more practical wagon (SW) body style.

This is the E-308 and the E-308 SW, which are using a capital E this time instead of a lowercase one as seen before on other such fully electric variants of existing models such as the e-208
and e-2008
. A little confusing as far as naming scheme alterations go but we’ll run with it.

Just Like A 308, But No Fumes, the E-308

With the addition of these zero emissions versions, the latest 308 range is pretty much all sewn up, complementing the variants powered by turbo-petrol, turbodiesel, and plug-in hybrid powertrains. Just as is the case with the standard car, the E-308 is built upon the EMP2 platform adapted to house a large bank of lithium-ion cells within its floor structure.

Specifically, Peugeot has managed to stuff 54kWh worth of battery in there though 51kWh is its usable capacity, mated to the car’s 400V electrical architecture. The French marque says that its cell chemistry has also been improved over previous generations, comprising of 80% nickel, 10% manganese, and 10% cobalt.

51kWh, 400+km Range (WLTP) E-308

Fully juiced up, the E-308 is capable of a range surpassing
400km
 based on the WLTP testing cycle, though the final advertised estimated endurance figures have not yet been vetted and published.

To extract the most range, the engineers didn’t bother adding a power-hungry electric motor. Instead, the car is driven by a single front-mounted drive unit with a modest
156PS
 and
260Nm
, classifying it as one of the range’s least impressive in terms of raw output figures.

Charging is accomplished either via its onboard three-phase AC charger capable of accepting 11kW inputs or from a DC fast charger up to 100kW, which is capable of a 20% to 80% replenishment in less than 25 minutes.

3rd-Gen 308 Range Is Complete

Other than the EV-specific elements, which are confined to the powertrain and specific aerodynamic wheels, the E-308 and E-308 SW are virtually indistinguishable from their non-zero emissions counterparts. It will be made available in Allure and GT trim levels, mostly set apart by equipment levels and cosmetic enhancements.

Even stepping inside, the car displays no overt indications that it’s different from the petrol/diesel or PHEV variants of the 308. That said, the cabin design is just as stunning as before with Peugeot’s latest i-Cockpit experience taking centre stage.

It’s hard to say if Malaysia has much of a chance of eventually having the E-308 available for sale as
local distributors Bermaz
 has remained pretty tight-lipped about even the standard 308’s local debut. Despite this, there have been numerous sightings of test units roaming our roads in localisation trials.


Renault Fluence 'Big Deal' Campaign Gets You One From RM 89,888

From now until the 31st of October 2017, take some time to visit your nearest Renault showroom. As part of the 'Big Deal' campaign, TC Euro Cars (TCEC) is offering the Fluence for an attractive price of just RM 89,888 (on-the-road, with GST, without insurance)- that is, for the higher end Dynamique variant. It is only applicable to selected 2017 units of the Fluence Dynamique, and it's an additional RM 4,000 if you would like leather seats.
This is a great deal- the Renault Fluence Dynamique normally goes for RM 119,888 (on-the-road, with GST, without insurance)- and you still maintain the 5-year, unlimited mileage warranty. If you spring for the 5-in-Fluence package at an extra RM 3,500, you also get a 5-year, 100,000 km service package that includes parts and labour. It's a really attractive price for a C-segment sedan, at top-end B-segment sedan pricing. Click
here
 to read our launch story for the Renault Fluence facelift and its specification list.


Tutup Sempadan Negeri Jika Kadar R-Naught (Rt) lebih 1.00

Masih belum sempat
pulang ke kampung
 untuk berjumpa dengan ahli keluarga tercinta? Pulanglah sebelum sempadan negeri ditutup!

Kerajaan perlu menutup sempadan negeri sekiranya kadar kebolehjangkitan atau R-naught (Rt) COVID-19 di sesebuah negeri itu direkodkan melebihi 1.00. Perkara ini disuarakan oleh Prof Kesihatan Komuniti, Pengurusan Hospital dan Kesihatan, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Prof Dr Sharifa Ezat Wan Puteh.

Jelasnya, sekiranya bacaan Rt di sesebuah negeri itu meningkat, ia menandakan bahawa jangkitan aktif sedang berlaku di kawasan tersebut. Ini amat membimbangkan terutama dengan kehadiran varian Delta yang memberi risiko pada golongan rentan (
vulnerable
), remaja serta kanak-kanak yang masih belum menerima
suntikan vaksin
 kerana mudah terdedah dan dijangkiti.

Meskipun suntikan vaksin amat membantu dalam mengurangkan gejala serius dan kes kematian membabitkan jangkitan COVID-19, tapi masyarakat perlu peka bahawa vaksin bukan penghalang jangkitan daripada terus berlaku. Sekiranya dijangkiti, pelbagai kemungkinan boleh berlaku pada individu tersebut.

Pada 8 November 2021, negara Malaysia mencatatkan bacaan Rt keseluruhan pada 0.94. Jika mengikut kawasan/negeri, hanya Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya dan Negeri Sembilan yang mencatatkan kadar Rt pada 1.00 atau lebih.

Prof Dr Sharifa tidak menafikan bahawa
kebenaran rentas negeri
 yang diberikan oleh kerajaan serta
sektor ekonomi
 yang kini dibuka seperti biasa menjadi salah satu penyumbang kepada peningkatan kes dan nilai Rt. Tetapi tindakan sesetengah pihak yang enggan mematuhi
prosedur operasi standard (SOP)
 juga telah menyebabkan penyebaran berlaku dengan lebih cepat.

Tiada penjarakan fizikal, berada di tempat yang sesak serta tidak memakai topeng muka antara sebab utama seseorang itu boleh dijangkiti. Jika kes COVID-19 ini terus meningkat, tak mustahil kerajaan akan mengambil jalan untuk menutup semula pintu sempadan negeri seperti sebelum ini.

Jadi bagi sesiapa yang masih belum sempat untuk pulang ke kampung halaman untuk bertemu ibu bapa dan ahli keluarga tercinta, anda dinasihatkan untuk berbuat demikian sebelum terlambat. Meskipun ianya masih belum pasti bahawa kerajaan akan menutup pintu sempadan negeri atau tidak, tetapi secara logiknya, perkara itu bukanlah mustahil.

Berdasarkan kajian yang telah dilakukan, imuniti seseorang boleh menurun selepas 6 bulan divaksin. Sebab itu dos penggalak diperlukan bagi meningkatkan kembali tahap imun seseorang. Di Malaysia, suntikan dos penggalak masih berada di tahap awal memandangkan Malaysia masih belum mencapai populasi penuh divaksinasi.

*Sumber: Kementerian Kesihatan Malaysia (KKM)

Yang paling penting, jangan sesekali lupa bahawa virus COVID-19 masih ada di sekeliling kita. Fasa endemik tidak bermaksud kita telah bebas dari virus, tetapi bermaksud kita harus hidup dengan virus tersebut. Oleh itu, jangan ambil mudah dan terlalu yakin yang anda tidak akan dijangkiti COVID-19.

Jaga diri, ikut SOP!


Proton X70 - Here Are The Features On Offer

Proton has provided us with more information about the upcoming X70 SUV, this time releasing specifications and variant details of its new model.
A total of four variants will be offered, which includes the Standard 2WD, Executive 2WD, Executive AWD, and Premium 2WD. All variants of the Proton X70 share a 1.8-litre TGDi turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine that does 181 hp and 285 Nm. A six-speed automatic transmission is the sole option, routing power to either the front or all four wheels, depending on specification.
The base Standard 2WD X70 is decently equipped, including:
17-inch alloy wheels
Halogen headlights
Black fabric seats
8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system
Rear view camera
Moving one level up to the Executive 2WD, this variant further add these equipment, including:
18-inch alloy wheels
LED headlights with LED DRLs
Black leatherette seats
Power adjustable driver seat
360-degree surround view camera
The sole AWD variant of the Proton X70 further adds:
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
As for the range-topping Premium 2WD variant, this variant includes:
Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS)
Brown Nappa leather seats
Power adjustable front passenger seat
Panoramic sunroof
Five body colours are available, though only the Premium 2WD will receive all five colours, including Snow White, Armour Silver, Jet Grey, Cinnamon Brown, and Flame Red. The Executive 2WD model gets four colours excluding Flame Red, while the remaining two models (Standard 2WD, Executive AWD) can only be had with two colours.
If the variant breakdown looks familiar, Proton has taken a leaf out of Honda’s book with the new CR-V, as Proton has reserved all of its bells and whistles for the most expensive 2WD model, while the AWD model.
The final piece of the puzzle is the price of the new model lineup. Proton has made it clear that prices will only be announced closer to the SUV’s debut.


A Tesla Model S In The Right Hands Is An EV Drift Monster

You might not know it to look at it, but the Tesla Model S is actually capable of sustaining a pretty insane drift. Yes, it’s a four-door sedan. And yes, it’s electric. Actually, that last bit might be its biggest strong point.
Electric cars are usually not seen as performance machines. They’re often labelled as boring; a car for people who aren’t concerned about fun. That’s all wrong – or at least it’s a perception that’s changing quickly. At the forefront of that shift is Tesla and its Model S (especially in its P85D guise), a car fully electric vehicle that packs its eco pretentions in a sleek and swooping body that packs performance that can worry most supercars.
The answer lies in torque, and electric motors deliver a lot of it and from anywhere in the rev range. Press the accelerator pedal, and you’ll have instant power.
This characteristic is best demonstrated here by 2001 D1 GP champion Nobuteru Taniguchi as he slithers a Model S for a drift event in Odaiba, Japan. What he’s able to do is pretty impressive not only for an electric car, but any car that hasn’t been modified in any way to drift. He fails to catch the slide a couple of times, nothing dramatic, but attributes that to the steering rack – forgivably - not being quick enough. He did come away impressed by how capable the car was, though.


PDRM Dedahkan Reka Bentuk Persona Dan Iriz MC2 2021 Secara Tidak Sengaja

Siaran langsung di Facebook milik Polis Perak mengenai pemeriksaan mengejut PDRM terhadap
kilang Proton di Tanjung Malim
 sempena Operasi Pematuhan SOP secara tidak sengaja telah mendedahkan rupa bentuk
Proton Persona dan Iriz MC2
 kepada umum.

Menerusi video tersebut, model Minor Change 2 (MC2) Proton Persona dan Iriz ini kelihatan sudah siap sedia untuk dibawa ke
bilik pameran
. Memandangkan tarikh pelancarannya juga dijangka sudah tidak lama lagi, Proton kini dikhabarkan sedang bertungkus-lumus untuk menyiapkan lebih banyak model MC2 bagi Persona dan Iriz sebagai
stok tersedia
.

Kedua-dua kereta itu dilihat menerima bumper hadapan yang direka semula serta menerima lampu utama hadapan dalam bentuk LED. Persona dan Iriz ini juga bakal menggayakan lencana Proton baharu yang berbentuk bulat seperti di
Proton X50.

Bagi
Proton Persona MC2
, lampu belakangnya dilihat sedikit gelap (smoked) berbanding sebelumnya. Tetapi, khabar angin bahawa Persona ini bakal menerima lampu belakang LED masih belum dapat dipastikan.

Kedua-dua model ini juga bakal hadir dengan rekaan enam-jejari berkembar bersaiz 16 inci yang baharu. Ini mungkin akan ditawarkan sebagai ciri standard bagi model 1.6 Executive dan Premium untuk Iriz dan Persona memandangkan ada model yang menggunakan rim 15 inci yang lebih kecil turut kelihatan dalam video live tersebut.

Meskipun ruangan bahagian dalaman kedua-dua kereta ini kurang jelas kelihatan, namun kita dapat pastikan bahawa Proton Persona MC2 nanti bakal hadir dengan paparan infotainment dengan skrin sentuh terapung. Model ini juga kini menggunakan papan pemuka serba hitam berbanding dwi-tona pada model sebelumnya. Difahamkan, varian Premium Persona MC2 bakal menerima balutan kulit berwarna coklat gelap pada tempat duduknya.

Memandangkan ianya versi facelift, tiada sebarang perubahan dijangka akan berlaku pada bahagian mekanikalnya. Bagi sesiapa yang terlepas pandang tentang Persona MC2, tiada lagi pilihan transmisi manual akan ditawarkan pada model baharu ini. Sebaliknya, Persona MC2 bakal hadir dengan 3 pilihan varian iaitu Standard 1.6L CVT, Executive 1.6L CVT dan Premium 1.6L CVT.

Begitu juga nasib Proton Iriz MC2 yang bakal menggugurkan varian manual serta 1.3L Executive CVT daripada barisan variannya. Iriz MC2 akan ditawarkan dalam dua kapasiti enjin yang berbeza iaitu 1.3L dan 1.6L. Barisan Proton Iriz MC2 ini akan hadir dalam 3 varian iaitu 1.3L Standard CVT, 1.6L Executive CVT dan 1.6 Active CVT.
Iriz Active
 merupakan varian baharu Iriz yang berkonsepkan crossover. Sayangnya, varian Active gagal dikesan dalam video live terbabit.

Bukan itu sahaja, video live tersebut juga menunjukkan sebuah
Proton X70
 berwarna hitam yang mungkin bakal diperkenalkan sama ada sebagai kereta kerajaan ataupun sebagai Proton X70 Black Edition seperti
Persona Black Edition
 dan
Exora Black Edition
 sebelum ini. Malah, Proton X70 berwarna hitam ini turut ditawarkan di Brunei dengan stok terhad.

*Kredit foto: Pad Motors Proton Brunei

Seperi yang anda tahu, Proton telah mengumumkan bahawa
Proton X70 Special Edition
 bakal ditawarkan di pasaran negara ini. Dalam versi Special Edition ini, X70 bakal hadir dengan pilihan warna
Ocean Blue dan Ruby Red
 serta menerima cermin sisi dan bumbung berwarna hitam seperti
Proton X70 Merdeka Edition
. Di Brunei, model ini dikenali sebagai
Proton X70 Exclusive Edition (EE).

Memandangkan model-model baharu ini kelihatan sudah tersedia, memang tunggu masa sahaja Proton nak lancarkan model-model ini. Tetapi oleh sebab bilangan kes positif harian COVID-19 masih tinggi, mungkin tarikh pelancarannya terpaksa ditunda sekiranya
PKPD
atau
total lockdown
 dilanjutkan.

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

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

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

Get the latest new car promotions at
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 website now.


SPYSHOTS: Isuzu MU-X Spotted In TTDI – Is The D-MAX SUV Coming To Malaysia?

Thanks to Carlist.my reader Azeem, here are a few spyshots of what appears to be the 2015
Isuzu
 MU-X – yes, it looks like the
D-Max
’s SUV cousin has been busy on the streets of Taman Tun Dr Ismail (TTDI).
Wrapped in camo and wearing trade plates, it would be no surprise if this MU-X did in fact belong to
Isuzu
 Malaysia. It also coincides with the many times we’ve heard whispers of its coming in the past.
What is it?
Anyways, the MU-X is essentially an Isuzu D-Max underneath its SUV body – a similar arrangement to the locally-available Toyota Hilux and its Toyota Fortuner SUV sibling. Like the D-Max, the MU-X features all the robustness of the trusty pick-up, equipped with an identical architecture under its skin.
The MU-X bears massive resemblances to its D-Max cousin around the front-end, while the rear does away with the cargo bed of the D-Max in favour of a full SUV cabin. Thus far, Isuzu has limited sales of the MU-X to very few markets, mainly offering the model in Thailand, Australia and the Philippines.
While it remains unclear as to what specifications Malaysian buyers may look forward to, we can for now tell you that in Thailand, where the MU-X’s is a popular favourite, power and drivetrain offerings aren’t far off from what is offered on their D-Max models: 4X2 and 4X4 drive configurations, powered by their latest 2.5-litre and 3.0-litre VGS turbo-diesel engines, paired with automatic and manual transmissions.
Coming to Malaysia
Back to these spy photos of the camouflaged Malaysian-spec MU-X, and it’s anyone’s guess at the moment as to what’s under the bonnet.
Other exterior features (apart from the SUV rear) is nearly identical to items we’ve seen on the regular local-spec D-Max: chrome front grille, bumper-integrated foglamps, projector-type headlamps, and if we can make it out right, chrome wing mirrors and door handles. Unsure of their sizes, but those wheels do resemble the 17-inch alloy designs on the regular D-Max too.
That’s about all the information we have for you right now, apart from the obvious fact that this is very likely headed to Malaysia, soon.
Stay tuned to Carlist.my as we uncover more on the 2015 Isuzu MU-X.


12 Days of Christmas: The Perfect Christmas Car For Your Mother

If you're planning on getting your Mum a Christmas car in 2020, then let's help you sift through the options of what would work best.

Being the season of giving, how apt then that this grand gesture of a car is reserved for perhaps the most important person in our lives, our lovely Mothers.

Without further ado...

2020 Honda Jazz

If you're looking for a comfortable car that is pretty much hassle-free for Mum, then Honda's little four-door hatchback is the go-to car. It doesn't sit high off the ground, it's easy to drive and is pretty much faultless. Honda cars are also one of the most reliable cars on the road so the
Honda Jazz
 should give Mum years of uninterrupted trouble-free motoring.

It's also one of those cars that don't really have many blind spots, so it's easy for Mum to drive it anywhere and park it anywhere. There's also no fancy way to operate the Jazz - just a good old automatic gear lever, handbrake and steering wheel. The 1.5-litre SOHC i‑VTEC engine is also frugal and doesn't command that much money when it comes to road tax renewal time.

2020 Toyota Yaris

If your mum likes a bit more of a sporty drive, then the 2020
Toyota Yaris
 should fit the bill. It's one heck of a car, and for those who say that the car is expensive, you're just wrong because you get what you pay for.

When it comes to the drive, it has the perfect balance of comfort and sportiness. It's really cushy when traveling through bad roads and has great handling for when Mum wants to unleash the Danica Patrick in her. Yes, it is not the most powerful car, but it can still move fast in a straight line on the highway, snake its way swiftly through traffic in town or carry speed through bendy B-roads. Toyota really did hit a home run when they created the Yaris. If we had to nitpick what we don't like about the car, it would be the CVT transmission, but yet again, it is one of the better CVTs out there.

Above all else, the Yaris is simple to drive. Pretty much any mother could get in and be comfortable with it in a drive or two. The 2020 Toyota Yaris facelift is also now open for booking, so you'd be able to get your mum the freshest looking Yaris around.

2020 Volkswagen Vento

If you're into German engineering and would like Mum to get in on some of that precision build quality then the Vento is an option to consider.

There's also a reason why the Vento hasn't changed much in as many years because VW knows not to fix something that is not broken. The 1.6-litre engine is proven and zippy and the 6-speed gearbox is smooth and efficient.

To get close to 600km range on a full tank from 1.6-litre is impressive but it's not the most remarkable bit about the car. The level of refinement is the car's best point, and its cabin noise insulation puts pricier cars to shame. Without a doubt, it has that comfort luxury feel to it thanks to its excellent NVH suppression. The ride is closer to the sportier side but it is plenty comfortable too so Mum will have a relaxed drive everywhere she goes. We're sure Mum would be absolutely happy with this car, especially when it feels more expensive than it really is.

2020 Proton Saga

For those who are on a smaller budget and looking to shop around the RM30k mark, the third generation
Proton Saga
 should be considered. The car now includes design cues from the Proton X70, Proton Iriz and the Proton Persona bringing it up to date.

The naturally aspirated 1.3-litre DOHC VVT engine is no longer paired to a CVT made by Punch Powertrain, but a four-speed torque converter automatic gearbox sourced from Hyundai. The level of refinement and NVH is also quite good, so Mum won't feel like she is driving an empty can.

You can even teach Mum how to open the boot using the key which will come in handy when she needs to fill up the car with groceries. With a four-star ASEAN NCAP rating, you can also be sure that Mum will be safe when out on the road.

2020 Proton X50 Flagship

Proton's new boy is so versatile it can pretty much fit into anybody's lives - including mums. With an efficient and refined 1.5-litre turbocharged engine hiding underneath the bonnet, the X50 would surely please the fussiest of mothers. The fact that the
X50
 has ADAS also means that your mum will always have a computer looking our for her in the safety department.

Since it's a crossover SUV it won't be too tall for her which would make getting in and out of the car easier for those aging muscles and bones. Being a Proton, the X50 would also be easy to maintain with a plethora of service centres around Malaysia. Above all else, she'll appreciate the comfort of the car as well as the luxury touches which punches above its class.


Porsche 360 Leasing Program Introduced – The Easiest Way To Own A New Porsche

Local Porsche importer Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP) has introduced a new financing program as an alternative solution to owning and driving a new Porsche.
Dubbed the 360 Leasing programme, the initiative applies to Porsche’s latest models such as the Cayenne, Panamera, and Macan (TBA) and provides an alternative mobility solution to customers, without being weighed down by the financing commitment or the resale value of their vehicle.
The new 360 Leasing programme is an intelligent alternative to conventional ownership models via financing and provides customers and companies with the financial flexibility to drive away with a new Porsche every three years with only a 10 percent or 25 percent refundable security deposit (for company lease or individual lease respectively) based on the selected vehicle value.
Customers are required to pay only the monthly lease rental during the three-year lease tenure, which provides customers the opportunity to invest or save their funds that would otherwise be spent on owning the entire cost of the car.
At the end of the lease term, customers have the option to either upgrade their current leased Porsche model to another model or upgrade to the latest model in the same range.
Customers who wish to keep their current vehicle can also opt to extend their lease or potentially acquire ownership of their leased vehicle. Alternatively, they could also decide to return the leased vehicle without worrying about the residual value or any additional commitments (pending terms and conditions relating to final vehicle mileage and condition).
For more information, visit their
dealer websites
 to check out the 360 Leasing calculator tool which provides a simulation on the leasing packages offered.


First Impressions: 2019 Toyota Rush 1.5S- Fully Loaded For The Safety Conscious Families

The all-new Toyota Rush returns with a much more aggressive styling and a higher quality interior. Based on the Toyota Avanza/Daihatsu Xenia, the 7-seater dressed in SUV-styling also incorporates many expected modern safety features such as six airbags, electronic stability control, and hill-start assist.

With the launch event held at MAEPS, venue of the second round of the Vios Challenge 2018/2019, our test route took us from MAEPS to Cyberjaya and back, which consists almost entirely of highways connecting the two places.

Specifications for Toyota Rush 1.5G and Rush 1.5S

Price: Estimated from RM 93,000 (1.5G) and from RM 98,000 (1.5S)

Engine: 1.5-litre four-cylinder, longitudinal layout

Power: 105 PS at 6,000 rpm

Torque: 136 Nm at 4,200 rpm

Transmission: 4-speed automatic, rear-wheel drive

Safety:
5-star ASEAN NCAP,
 Six airbags, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, VSC, Hill Start Assist Control, 7 seat belt indicators, ISOFIX

Origin: Locally-assembled under contract by Perodua, Selangor

Exterior

The all-new Toyota Rush now has many up-to-date features, such as LED head lamps (still no DRLs), large LED tail lamps, 17-inch wheels, two-tone aerokit , and keyless entry. Strong character lines on the sides and bumpers certainly project a strong sense of toughness in the all-new Toyota Rush.

We particularly like how the designers have placed ‘swellings’ on the bonnet, further emphasizing the tough character of the all-new Rush.

Interior

Toyota has certainly improved the quality of the interior. The dashboard and door panels have contrasting sections tastefully finished in white. Liberal use of faux stitching also lines the interior but done at strategic locations and simple patterns.

Toyota internal data says the cabin length has increased by 170 millimetres, resulting in an improved leg room in the second row and a more spacious luggage area.

The second row now reverts to the more common 40:60 configuration, as opposed to the 50:50 which compromised comfort for the passenger seated in the middle.

We also noticed the leather material covering the seats in the all-new Toyota Rush felt better quality compared to a Honda BR-V. In the extended short test drive, both seats on the front and second rows provided good shoulder and thigh support too, with a sense of additional bolstering at the edges of the seats.

There's a roof-mounted blower in the second row to cool occupants in the second and third row. One downside on the Rush's air-conditioning is that it doesn't have selectable blower direction, meaning that you can't divert air flow to your feet, or to the front windscreen. There is no front demister function so if your windscreen fogs up in the rain, you have to either switch the blower to fresh air mode or lower your windows slightly.

A brief stint in the third row gave a positive impression too. The seats felt comfortable, with spacious head room as well as leg room (We could tuck our feet under the second row).

How does it drive?

The test drive route consisted mainly of highways, travelling from MAEPS to Cyberjaya and back. As there are no changes to the naturally aspirated 1.5-litre engine and 4-speed automatic transmission that is also found in the updated Toyota Avanza Dual VVT-i, acceleration can be described as leisurely.

Cabin insulation has been given more focus in this generation, with tyre roar and wind noise well subdued. Engine noise is apparent at highway cruising speeds, as the gear ratios are tuned for acceleration. At 110 km/h, the tachometer is hovering circa 3,500 rpm, something a CVT-type transmission will never experience.

The fitment of premium-range Bridgestone Alenza tyres also contributed to a quieter cabin thanks to lower noise emission.

Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are a standard fitment in both variants. They provide a good aid (only visual) to alert of the presence of vehicles behind that might not be seen through the side mirrors.

We also managed to experience the Pre-Collision System (PCS) that is only available in the 1.5S variant. It performed as expected with full braking force applied as the all-new Rush approached a stationary object. Learn more about the
all-new Toyota Rush' PCS system here
.

Another feature that uses the hardware and software from PCS is the Front Departure Alert. A gentle beep sounds when the driver does not start moving once the vehicle ahead moves off as the traffic lights turn green. We wished the beep was louder, as it was barely audible even when the volume of the radio was turned down.

Moving to ride comfort, the all-new Toyota Rush’s ride is on the firm side, as the suspension was tuned to take into account a full load of seven occupants and luggage.

Thus, with only two people in the vehicle during the short test drive, the suspension is ‘under damped’ and exhibited a more firm ride.

Toyota also took us off the paved roads, onto a route that circles an old disused mining pool. The all-new Toyota Rush performed incredibly well here! Thanks to the long stroke suspension and 220-millimetre ground clearance, potholes were dealt with ease with our travelling speed of over 40 km/h.

Check-out
 our handy specifications and features
comparison
 guide with the Honda BR-V here
.

Note: The all-new Toyota Rush is not available for viewing or test drives at Toyota showrooms yet, as production and deliveries are only scheduled for January 2019
.

Conclusion

The all-new Toyota Rush looks great in the metal thanks to the large dual-tone wheels, matched with the bodykit and well-defined character lines. The two-tone interior definitely worked well here, uplifting the cabin ambience.

Overall, the all-new Rush improves on many aspects of the entry-level MPV that it is based upon. The higher quality finish and quiet cabin ambience can be seen and felt with ease. The safety features such as Blind Spot Monitoring and PCS together with 5-star ASEAN NCAP rating will surely attract many young families who prefer to be in the great looking SUV.


Get your Initial D on with the 2024 Toyota GR86 Trueno Edition!

Toyota is bringing some fiery Initial D heat with the new
2024 Toyota GR86 Trueno Edition
.

Coming from the US, only 860 units of the Toyota GR86 Trueno Edition will be produced in both manual and automatic transmissions. Toyota USA also announced that they're also launching the Performance Package which consists of the Sachs Dampers and Brembo brakes for the current GR86 models (already available as standard features on the Trueno Edition).

Going back to the GR86 Trueno Edition, customers can opt between two colourways - Halo and Black, or Track bRed and Black. The two-tone feature is further enhanced with a black bonnet, side panel graphics, duckbill spoiler, door handles, and mirror caps. The Trueno Edition badge can also be seen on the front bumper lip and rear decklid.

To tie everything together, the 2024 Toyota GR86 Trueno Edition comes with a set of unique 18-inch 10-spoke aluminium alloy wheels finished in black metallic to truly pay tribute to the 1980s model. As mentioned above, hiding behind those lovely rims are the ZF Sachs Dampers and Brembo Brakes specifically developed and tuned by Toyota Gazoo Racing to increase handling, comfort, and brake consistency.

Step inside the cabin and you'll find the Ultrasuede® sport seats with red leather accents along with red stitchings on the shift boot as well as the leather-wrapped steering wheel. You'll also get the Trueno Edition logo on the shift knob as well as some all-weather mats for the floor and trunk.

The 2.4-litre FA-24 engine has been maintained to produce 228hp and 250Nm of torque. Those who opt for the six-speed manual transmission will also get the newly added Active Safety Suite - a feature that comes standard with the automatic version.

As for pricing, Toyota USA will only announce it at the end of the year. If you fancy the non-Trueno version of the
Toyota GR86
, it is already available here in Malaysia with a price tag that starts from RM295,000 - a sweet, sweet deal if you ask us.


5 Cars That Can Fit Three Child Seats

Our top choice of cars that can fit three child seats safely and securely.

A reader recently asked us which cars in Malaysia could accommodate three child seats (preferably in a row if possible), and shamingly, we couldn't confidently give an answer without doing some research.

There are many 'family' cars on the market, but only some can actually fit three child/baby seats in a row as it depends on the car's space and anchor points.

While you can easily fit three child seats in an MPV with an abundant amount of space and chairs with three-point seat belts, trying to fit three child seats in a row is a bit more of a challenge, but believe it or not, some cars on the market can excel in this department.

So without further ado, here are our top choices.

Peugeot 5008 - from RM173k

The second-generation
Peugeot 5008
 is an MPV reincarnated as an
SUV
, but some of the MPV DNA never actually left the car.

The 5008 fits the bill perfectly for a car that can accommodate three child seats in a row because of its individual rear chairs, which can be adjusted individually.

While the European spec 5008 has three ISOFIX points in the second-row seats, the Malaysian spec car only has two, but that shouldn't be a problem as there is a top tother that will allow you to secure the middle child seat safely.

Isuzu D-Max - RM141,938

If you love the rugged and active lifestyle and feel the need to purchase a ute, then look no further than the
new Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain
, as it is one of the pickup trucks available in the market which can carry three child seats in the rear.

With ISOFIX points at the two outer seats and top tether anchorage, three child seats in the rear are possible. Since it's not the widest of cars, perhaps a narrower child seat will have to be considered if you plan to carry three child seats around constantly.

Since the new D-Max also comes with seat foams that reduce vibration, your children will undoubtedly be comfortable as
NVH
 has been minimised.

Mazda 6 - from RM173k

The Mazda 6's sleek body and low roofline really don't tell the story that it will fit three child seats at the rear, but its not so sculpted rear seat shape has proven that it is capable of accomodating three child seats at the back.

With
ISOFIX points
 at the outer seats and top tether across the fixed partial shelf, installing three child seats is easily and securely done. Some of its less-sleeker-looking competitors only accommodate two child seats, while others only managed one flanked by booster seats. Who would have thought, aye?

KIA Grand Carnival - from RM155k

Given its sheer size and capacity to
seat up to 11 occupants
 in a particular seat configuration, it's tough to argue why it doesn't deserve to be on this list, as it can probably house nine baby seats if it needed to.

The other reason why it deserves to be on this list is that in a market where most
MPV
s
 prefer to be equipped with those boss-looking seats that limit the second-row occupancy to two passengers; the Kia Grand Carnival can be set up to have a traditional three-passenger second-row seating configuration which also means it can probably accomodate three baby seats in the second row if it needed to but really why would you bother when you've got so much more space in the car.

Okay, ISOFIX mounts are not its strongest point, but all the seats can be hooked up to a three-point safety belt which will safely secure the baby seat to the car.

Land Rover Discovery - from RM409k

The
Discovery
 has always been known to be one of the most ideal family cars money can buy, but the fifth-generation Discovery, despite its odd looks, is one hell of a family cargo barge.

Versatile and rugged, the
Disco
 is equipped with seven full-size seats, a feat, not most can boast about. To top that, not only can the Discovery fit three child seats in the back, it actually has ISOFIX mounting points and top tether points on four of the five rear seats.

Okay, if you would like to install a child seat in the middle of the second row, you will need to secure it with the seatbelt as it does not come with ISOFIX mounting points, but hey, it's still a win-win all around in our books.

And there you have it, five vehicles that should safely ferry your three kids in their child/ baby seats around. We've also covered it across different body types and price points so there should be one that suits you and your needs. Undoubtedly there are others especially in the MPV range of vehicles, you have the
Alza
 (from RM50k),
Aruz
 (from RM68k), Avanza (from RM80k),
Innova
 (from RM111,622)
XPANDER
 (RM91,369),
Exora
 (from RM59k),
Rush
 (from RM88k)  to name but a few but that would be limiting and you most likely already knew it. With the list above, we expanded the horizons a little.

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

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.

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 website now.


Two Lucky Contest Winners Each Drive Away In An Isuzu D-Max 2.5L

Two recent Isuzu D-Max owners saw their fortunes doubled when they unexpectedly won another brand-new Isuzu D-Max 2.5 Auto 4x4 in the Isuzu D-Max Buy and Win contest.

Held in conjunction with Hari Raya and Gawai celebrations this year, Ghanie Entalang of Sebauh, Sarawak and Sugumaran A/L Nagappan were picked as the winners of the contest after purchasing their new pickups between April and June this year.

Ghanie, a scaffolder from Sebauh, Sarawak chose the D-Max for its proven traits of fuel efficiency, performance, and solid build quality. Sugumaran, though previously unfamiliar with the Isuzu brand, chose the D-Max for its overall value, "nice shape", and remarks the most impressive feature of the D-Max - after owning it for four months - has been its fuel-efficiency.

COO of Isuzu Malaysia Masayuki Suzuki handed over the prize to Ghanie at the KM Mobil Isuzu showroom in Bintulu while General Manager Kenkichi Sogo handed the prize to Sugumaran at the Jumbo Arena Isuzu showroom in Kluang.


SDAP Launches The Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo In Malaysia

Sime Darby Auto Performance, exclusive distributor of Porsche vehicles in Malaysia, has just expanded its fully electric vehicle range with the launch of the Taycan Cross Turismo to join its four-door coupe counterpart.

This comes just 7 months since the new model made its
worldwide debut
and about 11 months since the Taycan was
introduced into the country
.

Though it shares a similar ‘Shooting Brake’ treatment that we saw the Panamera undergo to become the Panamera Sport Turismo, the Zuffenhausen sports car maker dubs the Taycan Cross Turismo as their first Cross Utility Vehicle (CUV), mingling some off-roader cues to its
performance EV roots
.

The first thing you’ll notice to this effect are the prominent dark grey plastic cladding around the car’s lower perimeter and wheel arches. It doesn’t ruin the Taycan’s clean athletic lines, though, but quite tastefully adds a touch of ruggedness to the exterior.

This car was first previewed in concept form as early as 2018 at the Geneva Motor Show while carrying the pre-production moniker of Mission E Cross Turismo, but made its debut about a year after the original Taycan premiered in finished form.

Being eligible for the 50% SST discount that extends to all new vehicles registered until December 31st 2021, the price breakdown is as follows:

Taycan 4 Cross Turismo:
RM 645,209

Taycan 4S Cross Turismo:
RM 728,727

Taycan Turbo Cross Turismo:
RM 968,928

Given its larger cabin size and practicality plusses and standard all-wheel drive (in the form of a dual-motor-only configuration), it makes sense for the 4 Cross Turismo’s starting price to be higher than the base Taycan. However, next to the 4S, the equivalent 4S Cross Turismo is still RM56k pricier.

To counter this, only the non-Cross Turismo is available in the fastest range-topping Turbo S spec in Malaysia, meaning that the Taycan in four-door coupe bodystyle occupies the least and most expensive extremes of the range.

In addition to featuring an electric motor for each pair of wheels, each Taycan Cross Turismo in Malaysia comes as standard with Performance Battery Plus with a full charge capacity of 93.4kWh.

While true that the 4 Cross Turismo boasts the most range (based on the NEDC real world testing cycle) at a rated 437km thanks to its less powerful 380PS combined output (476PS with overboost), the rest of the range isn’t far off.

The mid-tier 4S Cross Turismo is capable of 490PS in normal driving (and 571PS on overboost) whereas the the Turbo Cross Turismo churns out a meatier 625PS normally (and 680PS on overboost). However, their rated range per charge is 436km and 425km, respectively.

As you’d expect, the most powerful Turbo Cross Turismo is the most potent when it comes to performance. Incredible and instantaneous acceleration is an EV staple and with 680PS on tap with launch control enabled, rockets it to 100km/h from standstill in 3.3 seconds with a speed limit cap set at 250km/h.

In descending order sprint times, the 4S Cross Turismo manages the same in 4.1 seconds (240km/h top speed) and the 4 Cross Turismo takes 5.1 seconds to hit that century mark with full whack topping out at 220km/h.

Like the standard Taycan, each Cross Turismo is fitted with Porsche’s three chamber air suspension system, but here extends even further at its highest setting for an additional 20mm of ground clearance or 30mm if specified with the optional Offroad Design Package.

Say what you want about the bodystyle and the merits of a proper rear boot versus a hatchback, but we love a good wagon here at Carlist.my. And though Porsche has chosen to endow this estate-style Taycan with SUV design elements, the Cross Turismo executes this balancing really well and is still an extremely desirable machine nonetheless.

Can’t wait to see it in person!