Detroit 2018: Mercedes-AMG 53-Series World Debut – Powers CLS, E-Class Coupe and Cabriolet

Mercedes-AMG has just extended its model range by introducing a new model designation called the 53-series, offered on the CLS, E-Class Coupé and E-Class Cabriolet models, in conjunction with the ongoing 2018 Detroit Autoshow.
The 53-series sits between the ‘entry-level’ (3.0-litre twin-turbo) AMG 43-series that delivers 367 hp/520 Nm and the (4.0-litre twin-turbo V8) 63-series, which outputs 571 hp/750 Nm as standard, and 612 hp/850Nm in ‘S’ trim.
At the heart of the 53-series is the (M256) 3.0-litre turbocharged and direct-injected power plant from a new
family of inline-six petrol engines
, that have been developed for electrification from the outset.
The newly developed 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine is supplemented by a single-turbocharger and auxiliary electric-driven compressor. The powerplant generates 435 hp and delivers a maximum torque of 520 Nm (in all three models).
The engine is aided by an ‘EQ Boost’ starter-alternator which is able to momentarily provide an additional 16 kW (21 hp) and 250 Nm of torque depending on driving conditions. The EQ Boost starter-alternator (ISG) combines a starter motor and alternator in a powerful electric motor which is fitted between the engine and transmission.
Supported by the EQ Boost starter-alternator when moving off, the electric auxiliary compressor (eZV) builds up a high charge pressure without any delay, for a faster increase in torque for acceleration until the large exhaust gas turbocharger is deployed. As a result, the 3.0-litre engine provides instantaneous throttle response with limited or no turbo lag.
Enabling the ISG system is a 48 V onboard electrical system. Power for the 48 V electrical system is generated by the EQ Boost starter-alternator. The conventional 12 V network is likewise supplied from the new network – using a DC/DC converter, to power the lights, cockpit, infotainment, and control units.
Thanks to the 48 V battery, the overall battery capacity in the vehicle is increased, enabling more electrical energy to be made available and allows new vehicles functions to be introduced, such as powering the water pump and air-conditioning compressor and dispenses with the need for a belt drive for these components.
The omission of drive belts thus allows a more compact design for the inline-six engine and creates space for an exhaust gas after-treatment system mounted closer to the engine, thereby increasing efficiency.
The 48 V onboard electrical system also paves the way for further hybridisation.
The engine is coupled with the AMG Speedshift TCT 9G 9-speed automatic transmission which features a double-declutching function and can perform multiple downshifts.
Power is transferred to the road (in all models) by the AMG Performance 4Matic + all-wheel drive system. The intelligent allows fully variable torque distribution between the front and rear axle (seamlessly transitioning from rear-wheel to all-wheel drive) and vice versa thanks to electro-mechanically controlled clutch that connects to the permanently driven rear axle and variably to the front axle.
The best possible torque split is continuously computed and deployed based on a complex matrix, courtesy of intelligent control systems that were developed into the overall vehicle system architecture.
In terms of performance, the CLS 53 and E53 Cabriolet accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds and achieves an electronically-governed top speed of 250 km/h (270 km/h with the Driver's package). The Coupe completes the century sprint a touch faster at 4.4 seconds.
Combined fuel economy is rated at 8.4-litres/ 100km for the CLS 53 and E53 Coupe models respectively, the E53 Cabriolet manages 8.5-litres/100km.
The 53-series is fitted as standard with AMG Ride Control+ air suspension, which features a sporty spring and damper set-up, and continuously ADS+ adjustable damping system. The front axle is fitted with special steering knuckles and load-bearing joints; all components have been optimised in terms of rigidity. A greater negative camber on the front axle and on the multi-link rear axle enhances lateral dynamics.
Thanks to pneumatic all-round self-levelling, the 53-series models maintain a constant ride height regardless of the vehicle load and is able to increase the vehicle ground clearance at the press of a button. The ride height level is automatically lowered when driving at higher speeds.
An electromechanical speed-sensitive steering features a variable ratio in the 53-series models whereby steering power assistance is available in a choice of two modes – "Comfort" or "Sport".
Perforated and internally ventilated (370 mm) brake discs with 4-piston fixed callipers are fitted at the front, with internally ventilated discs measuring 360 mm and single-piston floating callipers at the rear.
As for driving assistance – the CLS integrates technology from the S-Class flagship. Fitted as standard are Active Braking Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Attention Assist, Speed Limit Assist and the occupant protection system Pre-Safe. Also part of the standard specification is Pre-Safe Sound which prepares human hearing for the anticipated accident noise when there is a risk of a collision.
Visually, the new 53-series models have a distinctive twin-blade radiator grille in silver chrome, previously reserved only for the V8 performance models, in place diamond radiator grille with individual pins. The grille in front of the central radiator now features a black lattice pattern.
The front apron (A-wing) is equipped with black flics and a front splitter in silver chrome. The outer air intakes have two horizontal fins in silver chrome. Round the flanks AMG-specific side sill panels lend the 53-series models a more dynamic silhouette.
At the back – the 53s feature a redesigned rear apron and the classic round twin tailpipe trim elements in high-gloss chrome. The sides of the mud flaps are designed to improve air flow around the wheel arches. Lastly, the spoiler lip on the boot lid is painted in the body colour, but is optionally also available in carbon fibre.

Additional features of the CLS 53 include additional side air curtains to direct airflow to improve improving the aerodynamics at the front and reducing the car’s Cd figure. The front splitter connects seamlessly with the air curtain and reduces lift at the front axle. The outer lines of the radiator grille widen towards the bottom and lend the CLS an aggressive appearance. The CLS 53 is equipped with 19-inch light-alloy wheels as standard, optional 20-inch wheels are also offered.
As for the infotainment system, there isn’t much difference from the rest of the CLS and E-Class range – with two 12.3-inch displays under one shared screen making up the Widescreen cockpit. The AMG menu, on the other hand, displays the engine and transmission oil temperature, lateral and longitudinal acceleration, engine output and torque, boost (charge pressure), tyre temperatures and pressures as well as the current vehicle set-up.
In the case of the E-Class Coupe and Cabriolet model, the seats are trimmed in AMG-specific seat upholstery layout with an AMG badge, red seat belts plus trim elements in carbon fibre or glass fibre in matt silver. The interior is rounded off with the new, standard-fit AMG Performance steering wheel in Nappa leather with additional individualisation options such as wood inserts or Dinamica microfibre in the grip area.
With regard to interior colours and materials, the three new 53-series models boast significantly more options than the preceding 43-series models – there is a choice of Artico man-made leather/Dinamica microfibre, Nappa leather, and Designo interiors.
For the CLS 53 alongside the Designo appointments, customers have a wider choice of trim colour combinations in which the ambient colour is also repeated on the steering wheel rim. In the CLS 53, the integral seats with adjustable head restraints have also been redesigned and enhanced in terms of their shape, colour and material choice. The rear seat row has also been redesigned with three full-size seats. The seat backrest which folds in a 40:20:40 split also includes height-adjustable head restraints for increased practicality.

Limited run ‘Edition 1’ models of the CLS 53 4MATIC+ boast the Copper Art interior design – numerous highlights in a copper colour help ensure a luxurious cabin space. The leather upholstery in black Nappa also features copper-coloured contrasting topstitching, as do the instrument panel, armrests, centre console, door panels and piping on the floor mats.
Further Edition 1 niceties include centre console in carbon fibre with Copper Art copper stitching, steering wheel with Edition badge, ambient lighting with 64 colours, the Memory and Mirror package, and the exclusive IWC analogue clock.


Driven: 2020 Toyota GR Yaris And 2020 Vios GR - More Than We Ever Hoped For

In perhaps one of the highlights for 2021, we get behind the wheel of the hot hatchback that everyone's been talking about for months: the 2020 Toyota GR Yaris.

If you've come into driving age in the last decade or so, and are coming into the kind of financial strength that affords you a more expensive luxury car - you are incredibly lucky. The only problem is that if you didn't already put money down on a 2020 Toyota GR Yaris, you may be out of luck and on a long waiting list. It is possibly the best hot hatch we have driven to date, and it may also be the last of its kind.

A Long History Made Relatively Short

Before we go into just how amazing the GR Yaris is, let's talk about why it's special. For a bit of background, Toyota used to have an incredibly rich history with motorsports - at least when it came to rally. Since the 1990s, however, they slowly walked away from most forms of racing, and eventually phased out most of their performance models as well.

As Akio Toyoda was readying himself to take over the Japanese powerhouse, he was exposed to some rather interesting and eccentric people - people who were deeply involved and had a deep love for motorsports. We owe it to them that the CEO of Toyota developed an appetite for fast cars, and even as he worked his way up the corporate ladder he was fighting to make sure certain projects were greenlit.

The Lexus LFA is one such example, being such a white elephant for the company that they lose money on every model that they make - and yet it is a proof of concept that Toyota (and Lexus) were capable of building something that could truly move the soul. The next thing up was what has finally entered its second generation: the Toyota 86 and its sister, the Subaru BRZ. Of course, Europe eventually got the Yaris GRMN, and now we also have the Toyota Supra.

In the case of the 86 and the Supra, many enthusiasts complained that these weren't pure Toyota efforts. The 86 is of course largely using components from Subaru, from the engine to the chassis, and the Supra is in many ways identical to the BMW Z4. But coming back into developing performance models isn't an easy feat, especially when you consider how much they cost to engineer and build, and that Toyota has been happily churning out econoboxes for two decades.

Therefore it makes huge sense to partner with another brand that's also looking to build something performance-oriented but doesn't quite have the numbers to make it work. That's exactly what the 86 and Supra are: joint ventures to satisfy the required production numbers, and in turn providing enthusiasts with great fun-to-drive options that also function as a test for whether the market wants performance Toyotas.

Regardless of how you view these cars, enthusiasts spoke with their wallets and many, many 86s and Supras have been sold. This gives Toyota enough confidence to say: "Okay, now it's time for us to make something that's completely our own" - and this gave birth to the 2020 GR Yaris.

As you can tell by now, it's not merely the Yaris we know with a fancy powertrain (neither the regular ASEAN nor European Yaris are alike), but rather something completely developed from the ground up with the intention of rally homologation.

It's this last bit that really makes the GR Yaris special, because we don't get many homologation models these days - or at all really. To design a car from the ground up specifically to go racing, and making that car in enough volume to qualify it as a homologation model is incredibly expensive, but it shows that Toyota is really committed to the cause.

On To The Experience

With all of the
 hype over the 2020 GR Yaris
 and an incredible story behind its creation, you can understand that expectations are high for it. The performance figures? Not mind-blowing but far from anything to sniff at: a turbocharged 1.6-litre three-cylinder petrol engine pushing 261 PS and 360 Nm of torque, spinning all four wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox.

Thankfully, every
Malaysian GR Yaris
 comes with the optional Performance Pack that gives it trick Torsen limited-slip differentials at the front and rear, 18-inch BBS lightweight wheels, stiffer springs, retuned dampers, and massive brakes. These are all definitely things that will appeal to the enthusiast that's hunting for a hot hatchback. Does it actually work though?

The answer is a definitive yes. It's more than we could have hoped for, more
than we ever expected
, and way more than you get for your money with any other option. The first test we put the GR Yaris through was a simple gymkhana, with the inclusion of a donut that you take in a full four-wheel drift. For anything not all-wheel drive, this is impossible - for anything without the Torsen limited-slip differentials it is incredibly difficult. For the GR Yaris, it is easy.

This simple exercise is what helps to put the 2020 GR Yaris in perspective, and shows that it is so much more than anything you can get out there. You see it in Youtube videos from all over the world, with people throwing the GR Yaris through snowy corners and working that all-wheel-drive system in a way usually limited to WRC stages. The rest of the gymkhana course was slaloms and handbrake turns - pretty vanilla stuff - but the donut leaves a lasting impression.

An Intermission

Before we could take the GR Yaris out onto Sepang International Circuit, we were also given the chance to drive the Vios GR around while chasing an instructor. Instructors at these events are usually extremely skilled and experienced in a variety of different motorsports, so it is definitely not something you can easily pull off. The real kicker is the fact that the Vios GR is a fairly simple sedan, and doesn't exactly set your pants on fire with performance.

This in turn makes it an incredibly fun experience to try and push the Vios GR to its limits while also closing the gap to the instructor ahead. The Vios GR is based largely on the regular Vios, but it has a number of aesthetic improvements including larger wheels and tyres, as well as revised dampers and a few more virtual ratios for the CVT-type automatic transmission. The engine remains unchanged, a 1.5-litre econobox mill through and through.

The Main Event

Over the last decade or two, foreign hot hatchbacks have really started to increase in popularity for the Malaysian market. We went from one option to nearly a half dozen, and they have become a good step up for those looking for a performance car, but can't quite justify spending well over half a million ringgit on a high-performance German sports sedan or coupe.

They have also become incredibly competent, and yet the GR Yaris blows them all away with ease. Rowing through the gears is easy and fluid without feeling artificial, the pedal weights strike the perfect balance between low and high speed modulation, and the steering is dialed in just right to give you precision without twitchiness. It is a well-thought out, well-tuned car that takes the best of what's out there and combines it.

Even more impressive is the fact that the all-wheel drive system in the GR Yaris is impeccably tuned, especially when working in tandem with the front and rear Torsen limited-slip differentials. Traditional all-wheel drive systems without clever electric or mechanical LSDs at the rear can be quite understeer prone, whereas the GR Yaris turns in, hooks up, and spits you out without breaking a sweat.

In our brief time with the car on Sepang, we can easily say that we didn't come close to the limits - and we were lapping at an easy 2m 49s pace with extremely early braking and operating far from the limit of oversteer or understeer. Understandably these test events are conducted with safety in mind, so going absolutely flat out is something we'll have to wait long before we'll ever get the chance to do.

Wrapping It Up

We've kept you here for long enough, and if you've made it far enough then hats off to you. The 2020 GR Yaris delivers on all the performance fronts you would expect, at a price that's highly competitive in its class, and comes with the added bonus of a great origin story you can tell over teh tarik.

It's easy to drive on and off the track, while not compromising the potential for on or over-the-limit driving, should you come into ownership of one. Sadly, it may also be the last of its kind with electrification coming strongly into effect and many manufacturers shifting their development budgets from performance cars to EV tech.


BMW Expands X5 Range With xDrive45e Plug-In Hybrid Variant

BMW has expanded the new X5 model range with the introduction of the xDrive45e plug-in hybrid variant.
The big news with the X5 xDrive45e is that it is powered by an inline-six turbocharged petrol engine producing 286 PS and 450 Nm of torque, and an electric motor which makes 113 PS and 265 Nm of torque.
Together, the engine and the electric motor make a combined 394 PS and 600 Nm of maximum torque, which is a significant increase compared to the outgoing F15 X5 xDrive40e’s 315 PS and 450 Nm. The power is sent to all four wheels via an 8-speed Steptronic automatic gearbox and BMW’s xDrive AWD system.
While the outgoing X5 xDrive40e was able to clock up to 120 km/h and cover up to 30 km in pure electric mode, the new X5 xDrive45e can hit up to 135 km/h and cover up to 87 km.
As for the battery pack, the X5 xDrive45e comes equipped with a 354 volt, 24 kWh lithium-ion battery pack versus the outgoing model’s 351 volt lithium-ion battery pack, which had a capacity of only 9.0 kWh. The battery can be fully charged in about 7 hours using a 3.7 kW charger.
Because of the battery pack, the X5 xDrive45e’s boot is smaller by 150-litres compared to the non PHEV variants. When all seats are used, the storage volume is 500 litres, and when the rear seats are folded, 1,720 litres is available.
Due to the positioning of the battery pack in the underbody area of the vehicle, the X5 xDrive45e’s centre of gravity is also lower than the non PHEV variants.
Performance wise, the new X5 xDrive 45e takes 5.6 seconds for the sprint from zero to 100 km/h, which is 1.2 seconds less than the predecessor model. Its top speed is 235 km/h.
Other key standard features include two-axle air suspension and electronically controlled dampers, acoustic pedestrian protection, as well as auxiliary heating and auxiliary air conditioning.
Looking for a new BMW? Get the best deals
here
.


Not As Protectionist As You Think

It seems that whenever we write about a local-brand car being a favourable option, many Malaysians will immediately comment on our country's taxation system and the word "protectionism" will inevitably pop up. We can understand the perspective – after all, cars from non-local manufacturers are considerably more expensive than even the cream of the local crop.

That being said, perhaps protectionism isn’t the word you should be using. It’s easy to think of the current taxation and excise duty schemes as heavily favouring local cars, but here are a couple of things that you should consider:

Luxury car tax used to sit at 200% to 300%

These taxes have been around since before Proton or Perodua

We pay far less percentage wise in terms of tax and duties now

Now if these three simple facts aren't enough to make you stop and think for a moment, let us re-examine the idea that Proton and Perodua have been protected.

In the beginning

Yes, there's no doubt that both of these companies benefitted from not having to pay duties and taxes. Unfortunately it isn't as simple as that, because these companies still used a fair amount of foreign manufactured content that was taxed - just as how the government currently taxes CKD car components for locally assembled models.

But this has changed as over time, the government has had policies like the Industrial Adjustment Fund, which allows for companies to enjoy the same tax breaks as Proton and Perodua if they choose to invest in our country - things like Research and Development centres, manufacturing facilities, test tracks and so on. The option is there, but few if none actually see the value in investing more in Malaysia, although that's a story for another time.

Our weak currency

It may surprise you to know this but back when Proton first launched the Saga, it wasn't that different in absolute pricing compared to Japanese models of the time. It was a little cheaper, sure, but not nearly the kind of price discrepancy you see today.

There are a couple of reasons for this. The more obvious one is that cars now come with more features than ever, which generally means a higher cost of production. But the larger reason for this was an explosion in Japanese Yen value through the late 1980s- in the span of a decade, imported car values rose by 50% and it had nothing to do with changes in taxation or duty structure.

This applies to other currencies as well. The ringgit saw a decline from the 1970s to the 1980s against the German Deutsche mark, with only a quick bounce back from 1980 to 1985, before sharply declining in value again. By the time 1990 rolled around, one ringgit would get you half as many Deutsche marks as it would in 1970.

We don't even have it that bad

While it may seem like the government favours local car brands, few people have any context of how difficult other countries make it for their automotive industry. Let's run through a quick list:

- China has insane import rates and to set up a car manufacturing or assembly hub locally you MUST have a local partner. These rates were as high as 260% or more during the 1980s and 1990s, although more recently they have relaxed as a result of trade negotiations.

- Korea heavily restricts foreign auto manufacturers from either using product placement in recreational media or outright advertising at times. This was a more serious legislation up until 1995, but even until today Koreans tend to abhor foreign car brands by virtue of patriotism.

- The United States is severely protective of their local automotive industry - but this is more in terms of manpower and workforce than brand. They even created a specific tax to limit the import of pickup trucks, and auto manufacturers tried hard to circumvent it with all kinds of crazy ideas.

- Thailand has even higher import rates than Malaysia, forcing manufacturers to assemble locally if they want a chance at all. Unless you’re selling ultra-luxury cars, it will be hard to stay competitive with a 200% tax rate levied against your imports.

- Singapore practically hates cars and you end up paying more than double what the car is worth and then some for specifications that aren't even comparable to our cars. You also have to pay a huge sum every 10 years to keep your car legal thanks to the Certificate Of Entitlement system.

Revenue is revenue

If you haven't realized yet, car tax is one of the largest sources or income for our government. That money goes to a variety of things that may or may not be automotive related, but it is still money that the government needs to run effectively.

In the eyes of many Malaysians, there should be no automotive tax. This would mean a huge loss of revenue for the government, which in turn increases tax on other goods or reduces the subsidy on petrol - which will inevitably lead to everything becoming more expensive. The other option is to make Proton and Perodua pay the same amount of duty (despite being largely locally manufactured) - but then many would no longer be able to afford a car.

What’s the takeaway?

Of course, everyone is entitled to their own opinions on the system we currently have. What we have written here doesn’t dive into the details of CKD production – which is taxed differently from fully imported cars – but there is also a distinction between a car that is assembled here and one that is entirely manufactured here.

We can only hope with what we’ve said, it will help you broaden your perspective on how our tax and duty structure works here, as it isn’t always as clear cut as people make it out to be. If you agree or disagree, let us know in the comments below.


Bukit Jalil Taxi Drivers Losing Out To E-Scooters

It’s a tough life being a taxi driver nowadays, not only do they have to contend with e-hailing, but now they also have to deal with e-scooters luring away potential customers.

The rise of e-hailing services such as Uber and
Grab has already caused much disruption
 to taxis with regard to their medium-long distance fares, but many would still seek cabs out for certain shorter ‘last mile’ journeys.

These cover distances that, while not far, are not easily accessible by walking or just take too much time on foot. Compound that with outside factors such as the searing mid-day heat or the common evening downpour, jumping into the back of a taxi becomes the most appealing choice especially if they’re ready and waiting.

MOT Bans E-Scooters

This is where e-scooters come into the picture as they have begun sprouting all over locations in Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya, becoming a nuisance to the point that the Ministry of Transport decided to stick a
ban on these type of micromobility vehicles
 on public roads (and an RM300 fine).

They have steadily increased in popularity especially in dense urban areas, especially commercial centres with one Singapore-based company targeting public transit stations such as those for the LRT and MRT.

E-scooters vs taxi

Though this problem is surely more widespread, according to The Star, cabbies who have now become reliant on fares to and from the Bukit Jalil LRT station have been losing many fares to the increasing prevalence and accessibility of these e-scooters.

“Now people, especially the younger generation, tend to use the e-scooters to get home or to the malls nearby, which used to be our fares,” said a driver who only wanted to be identified as Raj.

“They prefer using e-scooters to get to their final destination and there is nothing we can do about it,” he said.

Another taxi driver, identified as Rahman, said: “We wait all day, sometimes from 7am to 8pm, to ferry people to and from the LRT station to condominiums and commercial shops nearby,” adding that “the e-scooter companies don’t even have the approval to operate here and I know the stadium (Bukit Jalil) has banned them inside the premises, so they place the e-scooters at the bus stop.”

The management in charge of the Bukit Jalil Stadium, for example, has also banned the use of e-scooters on their premises due to safety concerns, fearing they might collide with the many joggers that frequent the stadium grounds.

Others have pointed out how much of an eyesore they are due to the fact that they are ‘dockless’, meaning users of this e-scooter service are at liberty to leave them wherever they please. They are often seen obstructing public walkways, left carelessly on the ground, or propped up against a  tree, curb-side, or street lamp post.

E-scooters Cheaper Than Taxis

Mohd Razi, an e-scooter user apporached by the newspaper, reveals that he uses service regularly as part of this commute to/from work, saying: “My workplace is close by but not walking distance. I used to take a taxi and it cost about RM5 to RM8. If I choose an e-hailing service, it can be as much as RM10 or RM15. But the e-scooter only costs RM2, so I use the scooters now,’’ he said.

Another e-scooter user, identified as Roger, told the publication that he prefers the e-scooters for similar use cases and will continue to use it due to their speed, cost, and convenience.


The 2024 Lexus GX is probably the most sophisticated overland vehicle you can buy

Lexus debuts the 2024 GX, now with a more rugged and sculpted appearance as well as more advanced tech.

The 2024 Lexus GX marks the introduction of the third generation of this SUV, replacing its predecessor that debuted back in 2010. The new model features a more rugged and sculpted appearance compared to the outgoing version, along with enhanced modern technology. Scheduled to go on sale in early 2024, pricing details are not yet available.

Under the hood, the 2024 GX utilizes the GA-F platform, which is also found in the LX 600. It incorporates a double-wishbone front suspension and a multi-link setup at the rear. Lexus has also introduced electronic power steering for improved steering feel both on and off-road.

Additionally, an optional Adaptive Variable Suspension with active dampers is offered. Initially, the GX 550 will be the only available powertrain option, equipped with a twin-turbo 3.4-litre V6 engine producing 349 horsepower and 650Nm of torque. This power is managed by a 10-speed automatic gearbox.

Comparing the new powertrain to the previous generation, the standard drivetrain of the GX includes a full-time four-wheel drive and a lockable Torsen limited-slip centre differential. The electronically controlled transfer case now shifts between 4WD-High and 4WD-Low more quickly than before. The Overtrail grades also come with a locking rear differential for enhanced off-road capabilities.

While a hybrid powertrain option will be introduced for the GX at a later stage, Toyota has not provided a specific release date yet. In terms of design, the 2024 GX showcases a completely refreshed look, featuring angular body lines and sharp creases. The iconic spindle grille is retained but has been incorporated more subtly into the front fascia. The profile view highlights the more upright windshield, while the rear includes a power hatchback with a separate glass opening and a kick sensor for automatic operation.

The 2024 GX will be available in six different trim levels: Premium, Premium+, Luxury, Luxury+, Overtrail, and Overtrail+.

The Overtrail trims stand out with their black fender accents and aluminium skid plate. They ride on 18-inch wheels equipped with 33-inch tires and offer features such as crawl control, downhill assist control, and a 3D multi-terrain monitor. The Overtrail+ variant includes special seats with massage functionality and a power-extending cushion.

Inside the cabin, luxury takes precedence despite the rugged exterior design. The instrument cluster has been upgraded to a 12.3-inch digital display, replacing the previous analogue gauges with a small screen.

The infotainment system now boasts a larger 14.0-inch display (compared to the current 10.3-inch screen) and supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Temperature and audio volume can be controlled using dedicated dials, while buttons for operating the transfer case and differentials are situated behind the gearshift on the center console. A head-up display is available as an option.

The 2024 GX offers two seating configurations: a six-passenger layout with captain's chairs in the second row and a seven-person layout with a bench seat in that position. The standard front chairs are heated and ventilated, with optional heating for the second row.

The upholstery combines semi-aniline leather and NuLuxe in colour options such as Black,Gray, and Saddle Tan. The Overtrail models feature a mix of either Black and Olive or Chateau and Olive upholstery combinations.


Review: 2017 Mercedes-Benz E350e (W213) – Tradition Meets Sophistication

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class lineage arguably reached its zenith somewhere during the era of the
W123
 and W124 model generations. These two models were the
bedrock
 upon which core values of the E-Class have been built – vehicles that are at once luxurious, refined, comfortable, and over-engineered to the point of being unbreakable.
Things took a bit of a downturn with the W210 model generation in 1996, and it wasn’t until the W212’s arrival in 2009 that the E-Class witnessed a welcomed return to form. It was the best E-Class we’ve seen from Mercedes for some time, but it still played
second fiddle to BMW’s F10 5 Series
 for much of its life cycle; that was, until the E300 BlueTec Hybrid rolled along.
In the Malaysian market, the EEV-incentivized E300 BlueTec catapulted the then aging W212 to top of its segment’s sales chart – a RM338k price tag, which undercut even the E-Class’ own E200 entry variant helped matters along the way.
The E300 BlueTec’s success in our market meant that a
hybrid variant of the current W213 E-Class was an all but inevitable development
, and it has duly come in the form of the
E350e plug-in hybrid
. Locally-assembled to enjoy tax benefits, the E350e picks up from where the E300 BlueTec left off and raises its game to another level.
Specifications:
Price: RM392,888 – RM408,888 (OTR without insurance)
Engine: 2.0-litre, Inline-4 Longitudinal, Turbocharged Petrol, 211 hp, 350 Nm
Motor: 88 hp, 340 Nm
Battery: 6.2 kWh, 33 km all-electric range
Net system output: 286 hp, 550 Nm
Transmission: 9-speed torque converter automatic, RWD
Safety: 7 airbags, ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Autonomous Emergency Braking, ISOFIX, Reverse Camera
Origin: Locally-assembled in Pekan, Pahang
Overview
With the E350e onboard, the Mercedes-Benz brings to bear an E-Class line-up that is as complete as this market has ever seen. The E300 petrol may have been discontinued to make way, but bread-and-butter four-cylinder petrol engines continue to be offered in the
E200 and E250
. Above them, six- and eight-cylinder powerplants await in the
E43
 and
E63
 AMG specials.
The E350e itself is offered with a selection of three trim choices, though one of them is a limited-run Edition 60 version commissioned specially for the Malaysian market and restricted to just 60 units. As tested, the E350e presented itself to us in AMG Line trim, a configuration that sets you back RM395,888 before insurance. The more understated Exclusive trim is available for RM3,000 less.
Similar to the
C350e
 introduced earlier, the E350e also features the 2.0-litre M274 petrol engine in its 211hp configuration. The arrangement of sandwiching the electric motor between the engine and transmission is also duplicated, but with a slightly more powerful 88hp / 340Nm motor and Merc’s new 9G-Tronic auto in place of the C350e’s 80hp motor and 7-speed ‘box.
Net system output of 286hp is seven horses up from the C350e, but max system torque of 550Nm is, in turn, 50Nm down, a measure of restraint exercised for the benefit of the 9G-Tronic’s longevity.
The E350e comes standard with air suspension, a feature not offered in the regular petrol models. Besides offering adjustable damper rates and self-levelling, the air springs also enable the E350e to be raised as much as 25mm to clear rough ground, or lowered by up to 15mm for added high-speed stability. Advanced electronics mean that the damping of each individual wheel can be individually adjusted to suit prevailing driving conditions.
Features and equipment of the E350e are otherwise mostly identical to what’s already offered in the regular E250 petrol model.  To sum up, the RM9,000 jump in price from the RM383,888 E250 Exclusive to the E350e Exclusive pays for the hybrid drive module and air suspension.
Exterior
The major tell tale sign of the E350e’s identity other than its badge is its rear-mounted charging port just below the right tail light. It differs from the front fender placement favoured by most of its rivals, but for most homeowners, this is likely to be a more convenient location as one can reverse park and present the charging port as close as possible to the nearest plug point. The other thing to look out for is the massive front disc brakes with bright giant blue callipers
Buyers of the E350e can choose between two distinctive looks for their vehicles. The sportier AMG Line trim as seen in our test car here presents the more aggressive large central star front grille; whilst the Exclusive and limited-run Edition 60 models get the classic star-on-bonnet front end. All variants of the E350e, as standard, comes with 19-inch alloys and Mercedes-Benz’s innovative multibeam LED headlights.
Interior
The E350e’s cabin adds little to the already familiar narrative of the W213 E-Class; an Audi A6 feels more solidly built, whilst a BMW 5 Series lines up more intuitive ergonomics, but where design and material finish is concerned, the E-Class is miles ahead in convincing its occupants that they are ensconced within truly luxurious surroundings. Only the Volvo S90, perhaps, has a legitimate claim of being able to offer a comparable sense of occasion and sophistication as the E-Class.
As with the E250, the E350e is similarly fitted with the E-Class’ distinctive Widescreen Cockpit that joins two 12.3-inch hi-res displays into one unit presenting virtual instruments and infotainment in vibrant and vivid colours. Surround sound is broadcast by a 13-speaker Burmester setup with a 9-channel amplifier and 640W power output.
In Exclusive trim, the E350e’s cabin is finished in Nappa leather and open pore light brown dash trim.  For a sportier feel, AMG Line trim offers a darker-finished cabin with metal-weave dash inserts. Lastly, the limited-run Edition 60 cars get a two-tone designo scheme in macchiato beige and saddle brown colours.
Driving Experience
Besides the obvious fuel economy benefits, which we will dive into later, a major appeal of PHEVs is their ability to cover short distances without needing a drop of fuel. This comes in handy when negotiating traffic jams or when you just want to head out and grab a pack of
char kuey tiaw
 or Ramly burger for supper nearby.
A full charge of its lithium-ion battery provides the E350e with about 20-25km of all-electric cruising, which can be exploited at a fair turn of pace right up to 130 km/h. Setting the car to operate on all-electric driving mode prevents the petrol engine from kicking in unless the accelerator pedal is fully depressed. The electric motor is powerful and responsive enough that it can be driven no differently than a regular E200 or E250.
Call the petrol engine into action, the E350e delivers hugely respectable performance; which shouldn’t surprise us since the base E200 already feels punchy enough for the most part. The 9-speed transmission also has its gears well-optimized for effortless high-speed cruising. It fits well with the E-Class’ overall brief as a smooth highway operator.
Handling is competent rather than outright exciting. It’s balanced on the turn as you would expect of any rear-wheel drive vehicle, though added weight of the hybrid components meant that the regular petrol models handle with better agility. All the same, this is no 5 Series challenger on the dynamic stakes, but it will have the base FWD variant of the Audi A6 soundly beaten.
Comfort & Refinement
Pottering around town in an electric-powered E-Class is a beautifully serene experience. Complementing the electric motor’s smooth, quiet, and instantaneous power delivery is the beautifully supple ride made possible by the E350e’s standard-fit air suspension.
Compared to the
E200 AMG Line
 reviewed by us last year, the E350e smoothens out road patches and potholes with far greater authority and aplomb. Even disregarding the merits of the plug-in hybrid system, superior ride of the E350e’s air springs alone make it a prospect worth considering over the regular petrol models.
Switchover between combustion and electric driving is smoothly managed. The petrol engine is able to cut in and out of operation in seamless fashion and ostensibly free of jerkiness, noise, and harsh vibrations. Sometimes, you barely even feel it.
The only blemish to the car’s overall refinement is the engine itself. Though capable in its performance, it is surprisingly coarse at high revs. It’s not what we would call a sporty note, and certainly not the kind of noise we’d expect from an otherwise serene top-of-the-range E-Class.
Economy & Maintenance
Fuel consumption averages for PHEVs vary greatly between individual cars, depending heavily on usage pattern. Those able to recharge their vehicles more frequently naturally enjoy far superior mileages than those who don’t. Fully charged, the E350e’s traction battery is able to provide about 25km of real world all-electric driving.
Biggest benefactors of the setup will be users who cover primarily urban commutes with mostly short trips. Those diligent enough to charge their cars in between usage every time can conceivably go days without needing to use much fuel, if at all.
For any user, the PHEV system comes in handy when driving through traffic jams, parking lots, or when you’re just sitting idle with the air-conditioning switched on. With regular combustion engines, fuel wastage is highest these scenarios – the E350e, or any PHEV for that matter, allow you to negotiate all these situations without needing to waste a single drop of fuel.
Regular outstation travellers benefit least from the PHEV system. Over a trip of, say, 300km, the electric motor is only able to thus cover about 10-20% of your travel distance, leaving the petrol engine to cover you the rest of the way.
Where an E-Class is concerned, the already efficient engine of the E200 and E250 coupled with the wide ratio spreads of a 9-speed gearbox, a sufficiently light-footed driver will easily come close to the E350e’s fuel consumption on highway cruising.
Conclusion
Such is the funny times we live in that luxury brands have turned out to be the main benefactors of the EEV incentives laid out in the 2014 National Automotive Policy. The Mercedes E350e is the latest in a long line of locally-assembled luxury hybrid vehicles made much cheaper than they otherwise would have been thanks to generous tax exemptions.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has also cleverly learned from its experience with the E300 BlueTec Hybrid, which not only severely impacted the business of parallel-imported W212 E-Classes, but also the company’s own E200 and E250 models at the time as well. By positioning the E350e above both the current regular petrol variants, E-Class customers are now faced with a more logical model hierarchy that starts with base four-cylinder models stepping up to a plug-in hybrid and onward to six- and eight-cylinder performance options.
The E350e itself convincingly embodies much of the qualities that have come to define the E-Class, namely that it is luxurious, refined, and pleasant to live with. The ruffled note of its petrol engine is the only aspect of the car on which we have any legitimate grounds to lay any criticism upon. Otherwise, the E350e represents the Mercedes-Benz E-Class at its very best.


Lexus RX – The True Value Of Luxury

Regardless of earning power or market segment, consumers are always on the lookout for a good value purchase. Some may equate good value simply to a product offering the most features for the least money; a number of luxury car makers have been offering exactly that, taking advantage of EEV tax breaks to offer attractively-priced competitively-specced models to well-heeled buyers eager to seize a good deal.
Wealthy consumers, however, look to luxury cars to make a statement to differentiate them from the chasing pack. The true value proposition of a luxury vehicle, therefore, is to offer more than just the most metal or the most toys for the least money. The true measure of quality where a luxury car is concerned also lie in many intangibles, all of which weave together to create an unforgettable ownership experience.
Against competitor models that are locally-assembled and often heavily discounted, the Lexus RX presents truly discerning customers with a multitude of qualities that offer a new take on the true value of luxury.
Daring Appearance
Two years on from its launch in 2015, the Lexus RX still looks like nothing else on the road. It blends the rugged stance of a proper SUV with bold styling cues to offer unmatched road presence.
Sharp creases and acute angles between lines further add to the RX’s distinctive appearance that ensures it will not be mistaken for any of its more conventionally-styled rivals. From its design language, one can clearly identify the RX as a Lexus from afar, yet upclose it appears unique enough to carry its own distinct identity within the family.
Besides serving aesthetic purposes, the sleek lines on the RX’s bodywork also significantly smoothen its aerodynamics, thus improving fuel efficiency and helping to reduce wind noise on the move.
Meticulous Craftsmanship
Not just the RX, but Lexus vehicles in general are built with a relentless quest for perfection. Critical to the Lexus car making process are the famed Takumi craftsmen, whose dexterity and attention to detail are famously put to the test every day by a challenge to fold a perfect origami cat in less than 90 seconds using their weaker hand.
Takumi masters rely on their sense of touch as well as their naked eye to meticulously inspect each car at every step of the manufacturing process from engine casting to paintwork and body stamping. They also serve to devise the various processes that keep the assembly lines running smoothly as well as to train and inspire other technicians.
These Takumi masters work their meticulous hands every step on the way for every Lexus car manufactured.
Class-Leading Powertrains
The Lexus RX is available with a choice of three petrol engine configurations – 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-4, 3.5-litre V6, and 3.5-litre V6 hybrid.
The RX 200t’s 2.0-litre turbocharged engine is perhaps the most advanced of its kind available in the market. Besides being boosted by a twin-scroll turbocharger, the four-cylinder engine also features dual fuel injection systems and the ability to switch between two different combustion cycles to give it maximum flexibility – it can therefore be as powerful as you want, or as economical as you need. Best of all, it is refined like no other engine in its class.
Middle of the pack is a 3.5-litre V6 offering ultra-smooth performance for buyers preferring the effortless power delivery of a big capacity engine in the RX 350. Topping the range is a 3.5-litre Atkinson cycle V6 augmented by the Lexus Hybrid Drive system in a setup that offers a best of all worlds combination in performance, fuel economy, and refinement.
To ensure superior traction, all versions of the Lexus RX in Malaysia are offered with all-wheel drive as standard providing confident all-weather performance.
Preserved Prices
Unlike its competitors, Lexus is not pre-occupied with merely chasing sales volumes and is thus not drawn into endless discount wars with competitors. By doing this, Lexus gives value back to its consumers by preserving the exclusivity and resale value of their vehicles.
It does mean that fewer people buy Lexus vehicles compared to competitor brands, but it does mean that every Lexus vehicle on the road stands out from the rest. Granted, one has to pay more to own a Lexus, but it also comes with the assurance that resale values will not be sent crashing by massive discounts the very next day.
The Lexus Ownership Experience
Besides making superbly crafted vehicles, Lexus is also well-known for providing an unrivalled ownership experience. For starters, Lexus vehicles are generally better made and more reliable than most cars in their class.
Further, Lexus personnel at the front lines are trained to provide first class service to all customers walking into the brand’s premises, thus guaranteeing an unforgettable showroom experience. Owners returning to have their vehicles serviced are treated with the same degree of hospitality. It is not uncommon for visitors to Lexus dealerships talk about being ‘treated like kings’ afterward.
The Lexus RX is more than just a premium SUV; it embodies the true essence of luxury on multiple levels. This is a vehicle that offering an unforgettable design, thoughtful attention to detail, and superb engineering in one luxurious package. If there is an SUV you want to stand out from the crowd from with, this is a car that you absolutely have to consider.
Follow
this link
 to find out more on the Lexus RX's luxury-laden take on the concept of value.
The Lexus RX, together with other Lexus models such as the NX, IS, and ES, is available for test drive back-to-back against luxury models from Jaguar Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, and Volvo.at the upcoming
Carlist.my DRIVE: Luxury Edition 2017
 event happening on 4-5 Nov at TPC Kuala Lumpur.
Book your test drive at
Carlist.my DRIVE: Luxury Edition 2017
 today and stand a chance to win high-end detailing packages worth RM18,000.


MARii: Automotive Component Exports Set To Hit RM12 Billion In 2019

Malaysian Automotive, Robotics and IoT (MARii) have said that exports of automotive components and spare parts are expected to hit RM12 billion in 2019.
While speaking at a
recent event
, MARii CEO Datuk Madani Sahari
told NST
 that exports in the first 10 months of 2018 had reached RM11 billion; with MARii still in the midst of collating achievement data from the last two months of 2018. A big improvement over total exports in 2011, which amounted to RM5.2 billion.
Madani added, “To date, there are about 175 local suppliers who have been exporting automotive components and parts globally.”
Also present at the event was Perodua President and CEO Datuk Zainal Abidin Ahmad who said that the level of competitiveness of local component suppliers is similar to that of other regional component suppliers.
In the future, he hopes that Malaysian suppliers will be able to follow in the footsteps of suppliers in Indonesia and Thailand which not only export CBU products worldwide but also individual components.


Volkswagen Malaysia Launches Cares Program

Following the introduction of the
 special edition ‘Join’ range
, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) launched their customer loyalty program called Volkswagen Cares.
Volkswagen Cares is a smartphone application that comes with a list of features related to both sales and after sales. Users can view the latest service offers, owner rewards, event dates, as well as educational videos.
Non-owners are also encouraged to download the mobile app to be informed on the latest sales offers, video content, plus booking of a test drive.
VPCM has also reached out to current Volkswagen car owners with the introduction of the Volkswagen Care Plus (VCP). Aimed at owners of vehicles five-years and older, VCP member privileges include three 20% service discount vouchers, a two-year extension of roadside assistance, on-site battery support, and a RM100 merchandise voucher. A one-time fee of RM138 is the standard price, but in conjunction with the Volkswagen Fest happening at Setia Alam, VPCM is offering free membership to the first 200 customers who register.
Speaking at the launch, Erik Winter, MD of VPCM says that Volkswagen Cares is more than just a loyalty program. “Volkswagen Cares applies on all levels, be it to our colleagues, dealer partners, and our other stakeholders. And more importantly, it is about how we interact, engage, and serve our customers better.”
“Volkswagen is better experienced than explained, and this mobile app was conceptualized with this thought in mind. This mobile app not only makes our services more accessible to our customers, but also a way for us to appreciate and connect with our loyal customers.”
Click the links to download Volkswagen Cares from
Google Play Store
 and
App Store
.


2023 Peugeot Landtrek officially launched - Sole 1.9D Allure variant from RM120k

Bermaz Auto Alliance Sdn Bhd has officially launched the Peugeot Landtrek. Not only is the truck the first Peugeot pickup to hit Malaysian showrooms, but the launch also marks the French truck's ASEAN debut.

After being
given a preview earlier in January
 this year, Bermaz Auto Alliance Sdn Bhd has officially launched its pickup truck, the Peugeot Landtrek. Only one variant is available, with the
 s
elling price starting from RM 120,072.00 without insurance.

Exterior - French truck with French flair

One look at the Peugeot Landtrek and you'll instantly recognise the brand's 'alluring' design DNA that is both stylish and modern yet rugged, particularly its vertical grille embedded with Peugeot's Lion emblem as well as LED signature lighting.

Interior - more like an SUV rather than a pickup

Inside is just as stylish as some of Peugeot's latest SUV offerings, with features like the 10-inch HD screen and Peugeot's signature piano key toggle switches. The 10-inch HD touchscreen is compatible with Apple Carplay and Android Auto and offers seamless connectivity to integrate with your devices.

There's also automatic dual-zone air conditioning and
seven grab handles in the passenger compartment for better comfort and access.

For the rear of the cabin, Peugeot said they paid special attention to the three rear passenger seats wherein the backrest can be tilted 23 degrees to provide greater comfort. The modularity of the rear bench seats in the PEUGEOT LANDTREK adds considerable versatility to the cabin with the possibility of folding the backrest in 60/40 split or 100%.

When folded down, the backrests can support a load of up to 100kg. The rear bench seats are equipped with two ISOFIX fasteners to ensure the safety and docking of child seats.

Powertrain - small and efficient turbo diesel engine

The Landtrek is powered by a 1.9-litre turbodiesel engine that produces 160hp and 350Nm of torque. It's mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission and a transfer case, which allows for easy transfer between 2-High, 4-High and 4-Low modes with just a simple turn of the rotary knob.

There's also a mechanical rear differential lock which provides extra traction when one-wheel slips. Some of the other key details worth paying attention to, especially for those planning to use the truck offroad include:

Wading Depth: 600mm

Approach angle: 29˚ (depending on the session)

Departure angle: 27˚ (depending on the session)

Break-over angle: 25˚

Side slope angle: up to 42˚

Hill climb angle: 80% (on automatic gearbox)

Ground clearance: 235mm

235mm of ground clearance

Safety - Complete with features to keep you safe on and off-road

As for safety, the Peugeot Landtrek comes ready with features such as:

6 SRS Airbags

Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)

Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD)

Emergency Brake Assist (EBA)

Anti-Skid Regulation (ASR)

Hill Assist Descent Control (HADC)

Hill Start Assist (HSA)

ISOFIX points

Lane departure warning

Colours

The colour line-up for the New Peugeot Landtrek includes Ceramic White, Silver Grey, Magnetic Blue, Red Rubi, Rockstone Grey, and the model's exclusive colour Olea Green, making a total of 6 colours available.

Warranty

The New Peugeot Landtrek comes with a standard 5-Years Manufacturer Warranty with a mileage limit of 100,000km, whichever comes first.


Frankfurt 2015: Nissan Gripz Concept Set To Preview New Z Model?

Merely days after
Nissan
 dropped a teaser image of a
concept that will debut at the upcoming 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show
, the Japanese carmaker has now revealed the name of its concept – Gripz, along with a few more details and visuals of the crossover.
First up, the Gripz draws its inspiration from the iconic Nissan 240Z desert race cars as well as the “sleek two-wheel world of road cycling” and “was conceived to create an innovative new driving sensation.” That further adds to speculations that the concept’s purpose may be as a preview of the next generation Juke or a performance crossover that replaces the current Nissan
370Z
.
Meanwhile, the new teaser image gives us a look at the Gripz's front fascia that features a Maxima-like grille. The slim headlights appear to be come with daytime-running lights as well.
The accompanying promo video includes shots of Z racers and a V6 engine, which may further add to the possibility of a new Z model being previewed but until the Nissan Gripz concept makes its debut in Frankfurt, it remains to be seen.


Dijangka Siap 2019, Litar ‘Halimunan’ Di Fastrack City Johor Masih Tak Wujud

Masihkah anda ingat dengan projek pembangunan bandar sukan permotoran terulung Asia di Iskandar Malaysia yang digelar Fastrack City di sekitar tahun 2016 lalu? Khabarnya, sehingga kini, litar tersebut masih lagi ‘halimunan’.

Tahun ni, ada pelbagai berita tentang pembinaan litar telah didengari. Antaranya adalah:

Litar 'Nürburgring Timur' Di Langkawi

Litar Uji Sistem Keselamatan Kenderaan (MT3)

Litar Drag Bakal Dibangunkan Di Setiap Negeri

Pengumuman pembinaan litar bertaraf antarabangsa bernilai RM3.5 bilion ini memang menggembirakan, terutamanya bagi penduduk setempat. Tapi bagaimana pula dengan pelaksanaan dan pembinaan projek itu?

Litar Lumba Antarabangsa Di Fastrack City

Kalau diikutkan, litar ini sepatutnya wujud di pintu masuk Gerbang Nusajaya, Iskandar Puteri (10 minit dari Link Kedua Tuas). Ia dibangunkan dengan kerjasama FASTrack Iskandar Sdn Bhd (FASTrack Iskandar) melalui FASTrack Autosports (Iskandar) Pte Ltd dan usaha sama UEM Land Berhad melalui anak syarikatnya, UEM Sunrise.

Mengikut perjanjian yang sepatutnya, Fastrack City sepatutnya memiliki litar sepanjang 4.45 km dan menepati kelayakan Persekutuan Automobil Antarabangsa (FIA) Gred 1 serta Persekutuan Motosikal Antarabangsa (FIM) Gred A Litar Antarabangsa setelah menerima sentuhan pereka litar terkenal dunia, Herman Tilke.

Menurut Perdana Menteri ketika itu, Najib Razak, pembinaan Fastrack City bakal melengkapkan reputasi negara ini sudah terkenal menerusi Litar Antarabangsa Sepang selain penganjuran
Formula 1
 serta
MotoGP
.

Pembinaan litar ini juga menjanjikan 1,200 peluang pekerjaan diwujudkan menerusi pembangunan Fastrack City selain menarik kemasukan hampir 350,000 pelancong ke negara ini setiap tahun. Fastrack City juga menyediakan kemudahan tempat letak kereta bercirikan sistem keselamatan
auto-vault
 dan galeri merangkumi pameran automotif, gerai makanan dan peruncitan.

Apa Sudah Jadi?

Sayang seribu kali sayang apabila projek gah yang dijangka siap pada tahun 2019 ini masih lagi belum disiapkan sehingga hari ini. Di Facebook, satu perkongsian oleh akaun
Saya Orang Johor
 yang dibuat pada tahun 2016 berkenaan litar ini kembali tular setelah orang ramai menuntut untuk melihat sendiri litar itu.

Menurut sebahagian netizen, mereka mahukan penjelasan kerajaan persekutuan serta kerajaan negeri berkenaan projek ini. Jika nak kata projek terbengkalai disebabkan PKP, negara kita dilanda COVID-19 pada tahun 2020 dan projek ini dijangka siap setahun sebelumnya.

Malah ada juga penggemar sukan automotif di Johor berang kerana tiada lagi litar untuk mereka berlumba kereta setelah litar Pasir Gudang ditutup. Litar Fastrack yang dicanang suatu ketika dahulu untuk menggantikan Litar Pasir Gudang pula hanyalah dusta belaka, yang tinggal cuma litar motosikal Cup Prix yang terletak di Tangkak.

Jadi dimanakah kebenaran sebenar mengenai projek ini? Adakah ia hanyalah manifesto parti politik sahaja? Sehingga kini, status projek ini masih lagi misteri. Sama ada projek ini telah diberhentikan atau tidak, hanya Tuhan sahaja yang tahu.

Pada 2017, SCM Southern Corridor Malaysia ada memuat naik sebuah video menunjukkan kemajuan tapak projek itu. Daripada video itu, anda boleh andaikan bahawa ia sudah berjalan dalam jangkaan 5-10 peratus. Itu adalah satu-satunya video kemajuan projek ini yang dikongsi kepada umum sehingga kini.

*Kredit video: SCM Southern Corridor Malaysia

Mungkin litar lumba di Fastrack City itu sudah siap dibina, cuma tidak boleh dilihat oleh mata kasar sahaja. Apa-apa pun, diharapkan litar-litar lain yang dikhabarkan akan dibina pada tahun ini tidak akan mengikut jejak langkah litar halimunan bertaraf antarabangsa di Johor ini.


2015 BMW 3 Series (F30) Facelift Unveiled In Full Detail: New 3, 4-Cyl Engines Debut

At long last, here is the refreshed, sixth-generation, 2015
BMW 3 Series
 LCI (Life Cycle Impulse), finally revealed to the world. After months of speculation and
leaked photographs
 of the car, here is the newest
BMW
 to hit the streets, straight out of Munich.

*BMW 330e Plug-In Hybrid announced for 2016: 2.1l/100km and 250hp mentioned

Now, you may be wondering: what’s new? And honestly, there isn’t much if you’re just looking from the outside – or from the inside… for that matter. Underneath the hood is where the biggest changes take place, so stay tuned as we uncover some surprisingly significant changes bit by bit.

Exterior Styling:

What we can tell you to look out for is that the front bumper is now very mildly reshaped, and that the headlamps themselves, while offering a full LED option (with BMW Selective Beam system) like the M3/ M4 we’ve seen in the past, has also been redesigned ever so mildly for the standard 3 Series. There’s a new sensor for the optional Active Cruise Control, located above the central air intake, BMW says.

Around the rear, all that appears to be new has to do with the lower part of the rear bumper, which we wouldn’t blame you for not noticing otherwise – above is an ‘old-next-to-new’ photo to help you differentiate the two: be warned, you may need a few more angles to really tell them apart. (red = old, blue = new) BMW also says that the full LED taillights have been redesigned as well.

Interior Design:

If you thought spotting the changes outside were tough, inside, you’ve probably got no chance if we didn’t tell you that the climate control illumination has moved on to a white-coloured digital display, rather than the amber ones of old. The storage compartment just ahead of the gear lever is also now a sliding affair, displacing the previous lid-type cover.

BMW tells us that there’s more chrome than met the eye before, particularly surrounding a few controls, air vents and central control panel. Interior personalisation options have been expanded to include a few extra possibilities as well.

Speaking of which, BMW 3 Series customers can still choose from a choice of Sport, Luxury and M Sport design lines for their cars.

Performance:

Now, here’s where it gets interesting for the new 3 Series, because the engines that were in them have mostly been thrown out for brand new ones – all sourced from the new BMW EfficientDynamics engine family, and all EU6-compliant. Power outputs range from 116hp to 326hp, for the three-, four-, and six-cylinder engines.

The three- and four-cylinder engines have balancer shafts that are said to smoothen performance throughout the engine speed range. The modular design of the engines see standardised interfaces for the engine mounts and the connections to the cooling system, intake and exhaust systems as well as the heating and air conditioning system.

NEW 340i:
 In tow with the very minimal exterior and interior updates, the new F30 LCI features a new powerhouse of a 340i variant slots in to dethrone the 335i of old, and with it, a new straight-six petrol monster of a 3.0-litre engine – codenamed B58 – which replaces the old straight-six like for like. It also shares a lot more in common with the engines found in the M3/M4.

Power outputs for the 340i equate to 326hp (20hp more than before) between 5,500rpm to 6,500rpm, and 450Nm of torque from 1,380rpm. Century sprints for the car are an impressive 4.8 seconds, while the xDrive variant does it at a quicker 4.6 seconds.

NEW 330i:
 Also in line with the changes is the introduction of a 330i, four-cylinder BMW TwinPower version that takes over from the previous 328i – although, it appears to us that some markets, like the US, will still refer to this as the 328i (likewise with the 328d there). The 330i develops 252hp and 350Nm of torque, which is enough to accelerate it from standstill to 100km/h in 5.8 seconds.

Further down the ranks, even the four-pots that use to drive the pre-LCI model have been replaced by the newer batch of B48 mills, and with it, the same updates to the turbos and more, seen other the other engines as well. The result across the board, BMW tells us, is better throttle response and improved fuel consumption and emissions by up to 13%.

FIRST 3-CYL PETROL:
 For the first time, BMW is introducing a new three-cylinder petrol engine to the popular 3 Series, reserving the 318i designation. The 1.5-litre BMW TwinPower unit makes 136hp and 220Nm of torque (230Nm with the Overboost function). 0-100km/h is listed at 8.9 seconds, which is a fair bit faster than the previous four-cylinder engine in the 316i, which itself made the exact power output figures.

Here’s how the full range of new 3 Series engine variants shape up for performance:

What else is new?

TRANSMISSION:
 Sticking with the theme of not showing its new colours just on the outside, the new BMW 3 Series has also benefitted from a reworked eight-speed Steptronic torque converter automatic transmission, that is said to now feature a Proactive Driving Assistant, which uses navigation data to determine in advance what powertrain strategy to use based on the upcoming route. This is apparently only available to vehicles equipped with the eight-speed Steptronic transmission.

While a manual transmission is typically kept further away from our market, we’re told that it has been updated with a new auto-blip feature for the avid enthusiast.

CHASSIS:
 BMW has also
further developed the 3 Series' dampers, and put up stiffer suspension for the car. Work was also done to the steering, which is believed to be more refined for better control and agility.

NEW TECH:
 Where tech is concerned, the new BMW 3 Series gets an updated Navigation System Professional infotainment unit, which now only boots up quicker than ever before, it also offers faster route calculation and more realistic 3D graphics. The local maps are updated automatically for free, for the first three years only.

The 3 Series is also now LTE/ 4G ready, geared to handle the quickest possible internet connectivity of our times. The connectivity speed also assists the functionality of the various BMW ConnectedDrive applications.

So... think the new 3 Series facelift has what it takes to fend off its chief rivals? Or should BMW have done a bit more with it?

Take a closer look at the details of the car in this video:


Ex-Peugeot Designer Oleg Son Joins Kia

Kia Motors has appointed car designer Oleg Son, as Head of Kia Design China, tasked with leading the brand’s design activities in China.
Son will be based in Shanghai as Executive Director and Head of Kia Design China. He reports directly to President and Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer, and Head of Kia Design Center, Seon Ho Youn, and is responsible for managing the Kia design team located in Yantai.
He will work closely with the Hyundai-Kia R&D center in China, alongside other chief designers Gregory Guillaume in Europe, Tom Kearns in the US, and recently hired Head of Styling,
Pierre Leclercq
.
Son brings almost three decades worth of experience from the PSA Group - he worked on the Citroen C4 and was also involved with the Citroen ‘GT Gran Turismo’ and ‘Metropolis’ concept cars, in addition to paving way for the Citroen’s upmarket DS sub-brand.
His most recent projects have been the new DS3 and DS5 models. He was also responsible for launching PSA’s first satellite design studio, in Shanghai, in 2008.
He has a degree in Industrial and Transportation Design from the National School of Applied Arts and Metiers d'Art in Paris, and another in Transportation Design from the Royal College of Art in London. Son has lived and worked in Asia, North Africa and the United Kingdom at various points in his life.
Son is joining Kia at the beginning of November and will be involved in creating a long-term design strategy and focus on the development of new models for the Chinese market.


New Hyundai 3S Centre Launched In Butterworth, Penang

Hyundai has recently expanded its sales and service network in Penang with the opening of a new Global Dealership Space Identity (GDSI) 3S centre which is owned and operated by CS Euro.

Measuring 14,480 sq ft, the new 3S centre in Butterworth will serve customers alongside another GDSI 3S centre located in Prai, on the mainland of Penang.

CS Euro’s 3S Centre will house a showroom, six service bays, and a spare parts centre once renovations works are completed. Services offered include "Quick Service" as well as a lounge with free Wi-Fi access and shuttle service for customers.

Low Yuan Lung, Managing Director of Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors, said that he hopes to constantly improve the service quality at Hyundai sales and service outlets by establishing partnerships with experienced dealers.

“Offering premium service quality is our ultimate aim and we will continue to work on that by establishing partnerships with experienced dealers. I am confident of CS Euro’s capabilities given the vast experience that they have. We look forward to more partnerships such as this,” said Mr Low.

Hyundai has a total of three 3S centres in the state of Penang, including one at Jalan Sungai Pinang on the island. CS Euro is located strategically in Butterworth with easy access from Penang island as well as neighbouring vicinities such as Bukit Mertajam, Kulim, Prai and Nibong Tebal.

The showroom opens from 9am to 6pm, from Monday to Sunday, while its service centre opens from 9am to 6pm, from Monday to Saturday.

In conjunction with the opening ceremony, all service customers are offered 10 percent discount on labour and parts as well as a mystery gift.


The Brakes Buying Guide – OEM vs Aftermarket

Should you really mess around with your braking system? We discuss what you should and shouldn’t do when it comes to your brakes.

One of the most important parts of a car is the brakes – and if you want to argue with me on this then we can try removing them and seeing how enjoyable driving is. But even between different car models, brakes can vary a great deal – in terms of complexity as well as effectiveness. There’s almost no doubt that the brakes on a Ferrari 488 GTB would be far more powerful than those on a Perodua Myvi.

In this buying guide, we’re going to cover why manufacturers specify brakes the way they do, as well as what you should and shouldn’t do when it comes to modifying your brakes. As a disclaimer, you should always consult a professional when it comes to modifying anything brakes related on your car as it is a critical system. Read on to find out more:

Cost Is A Priority

Despite having remained the same way for decades, consumers nowadays tend to pick on a car if it comes with rear drum brakes instead of all-round disc brakes. There’s this perception that drum brakes are inferior to disc brakes, and in performance applications they are, but for the average entry level road car there really is no discernible difference in performance.

But this isn’t the only cost conscious measure that a manufacturer will make, and it isn’t purely limited to the entry level market. Even among higher end cars, brakes are specified to meet the minimum requirement of the car in order to keep it safe. If it weren’t the case, every car would come with largest disc and caliper package that can fit under the stock wheels.

Pistons, Disc Diameter, Pad Area

You will hear a couple of terms when it comes to brakes – usually how many pistons a brake has, as well as how big the brake disc diameter is. The number of pistons in a brake caliper generally relates to how much force you can apply to the brakes, and more is usually better to a point. On the other hand, disc diameter also has an effect on stopping power as larger discs can apply more braking torque to the wheel.

Pad area is something that’s a little more interesting, as it is a figure that isn’t always considered by those modifying their braking systems. For example, it is a little known fact that stock Porsche 911 997 brakes have less pad area than an equivalent model year Subaru Impreza WRX STI - and yet some Subaru owners made the swap even though they would be moving to a technically inferior setup. Pad area is essentially how much of the brake pad is in contact with the disc.

Brake Fluid Matters

One of the first things you can do to improve your braking system’s performance is to change the brake fluid to something that is slightly more resilient with high temperatures as well as better formulated in general to reduce the risk of boiling or contaminating. Always make sure you double check what brake fluid your car comes with from factory as not all brake fluid standards are compatible – we’re referring to the DOT number here.

What Brake Pad Compound Is Best

If you’re just getting into this, you probably won’t be having to deal with too many different options just yet. But even so, you should always make sure that the brake pad you purchase has the right kind of compound and operating range for your application. For example, many true racecar brake pads may offering insane stopping power and high temperature resistance, but are absolutely useless at lower temperatures when the brakes are too cold.

There’s also the consideration of how fast the pads will wear out or how abrasive they are to the brake discs. Some setups are really just designed for motorsports or aggressive uses so it is neither cost effective nor practical to run them on a road car. Whenever you change brake pads, make sure to resurface your brake discs and go through a proper pad bedding-in process.

Just as there are steel discs and carbon ceramic discs, brake pads also have a variety of materials available depending on the application. For most road car applications, a fully organic or semi-metallic brake pad works best as they are the least aggressive of the pad compounds and get warm relatively quickly – important during cold morning starts. There are also sintered metal brake pads that are far more aggressive with performance and wear – perhaps a little too much. Full on ceramic compounds offer even better braking performance across the range, but they are usually too expensive and completely unnecessary for road use.

Don’t Mess With The Brake Bias

You know how a bicycle has individual levers for the front brakes and rear brakes? With a car you get one pedal that does it all – but just like with a bicycle, you can’t just apply both brakes with large amounts of force when you want to stop. The grip across the front and rear tyres are different, especially as weight transfer forward under braking, which is what leads to braking systems having a front-rear bias.

The problem is that the brake bias of the system is dependent on both the brake pump, the proportioning valve, as well as the overall size of the brake calipers. If you choose to upgrade your brake package, focus more on the front brakes as upgrading the rear without proper calculations can result in a very tail-happy and very dangerous car under braking.

If It’s Too Good To Be True

In the last few years, we have seen an influx of fake or low quality brake products on our market. Everything from AP Racing to Brembo has been pirated, and there’s absolutely no guarantee of quality with a counterfeit product. Unlike other items such as bodykits or spoilers, braking equipment is an integral part of safety and if it fails you could injure yourself and others.

These items are popular among those who modify their cars as having big brakes is a show of seriousness, but ultimately it is more of a risk than it is worth. If you’re unsure of whether an items is real or fake, double check any serial numbers with the respective manufacturer as well as take note of what prices for these products are like from overseas. If the item is significantly cheaper, there’s a high chance that it’s a counterfeit product.


2017 All-New Honda CR-V – No Seven Seats, But Maybe That’s A Good Thing?

As you might have already read in our earlier post, we’ve taken the upcoming all-new Honda CR-V for a very brief test drive, and when we say brief, we mean driving less than 1 km in a controlled empty space.
We can’t show you any pictures of the interior yet, as Honda Malaysia wants to keep some of its cards close to its chest before the CR-V’s official launch (might be as early as next month), but we can confirm none of the upcoming CR-V variants will have seven-seats.
For the first time in the CR-V’s history in the ASEAN region, Honda Malaysia has decided to break away from the collective decision made by its counterparts in Thailand and Indonesia, both of which offer the all-new CR-V with seven seats, in favour of equipping the Malaysian market model with better safety features.
To date, Malaysia is the only country in the ASEAN region where the all-new CR-V is equipped with Honda Sensing, a package of advanced driver-assistance features that will alert a distracted driver of potential dangers ahead and if necessary, automatically braking or steering the CR-V away from danger.
More on Honda Sensing
here
.
Like the Nissan X-Trail, the CR-V was never designed to be a proper seven-seater. It’s more of a 5+2 seater. The third-row seats are ridiculously tight and at best, could accommodate children.
The reason why the CR-V was offered with seven seats in Thailand and Indonesia is because in those markets, the Toyota Fortuner is a big seller there, and ever since Thailand introduced a CO2 emissions-based excise duty structure, the price gap between a CR-V and a Fortuner have reduced considerably.
In those markets, the CR-V’s (which is also offered with a 1.6-litre commonrail turbo diesel engine) additional seats were included as an after-thought, to woo potential buyers of the Fortuner who might be willing to give up some utility of a full-size seven seater, for a comfortable ride and better car-like handling that the CR-V offers.
Market dynamics aside, reviews by the Thai motoring press generally conclude that the all-new CR-V is best seen/used as a five-seater, and that the third row seats don’t offer much in terms of added utlity.
Images courtesy of our Thailand sister-site autospinn.com. Note that Malaysian market model's interior will be different.
Over in Malaysia, seven-seater SUVs don’t sell in large numbers and substituting tiny/impractical third row seats with Honda Sensing, safety features that one could actually use every day, is in our opinion, a better way forward.
If you are looking for a seven-seater SUV, don’t look for something in the CR-V class. Full-size seven-seaters like the Kia Sorento (from RM150,518) and Hyundai Santa Fe (from RM167,735) are a much better buy.
The built quality and refinement of Korean SUVs have progressed so much that they no longer have to play second fiddle with Japanese makes. If you insist on a trusted Japanese make, there’s still the Mitsubishi Outlander, but it’s only recommended if you are willing to overlook the lack of rear air-conditioning vents. There’s also the aforementioned Toyota Fortuner, but it starts at RM170,364. The all-new model might be prettier and better equipped than before, but it doesn’t hide the fact that it’s still a Toyota Hilux underneath it.
Related:
2017 All-New Honda CR-V: What Is Honda Sensing?
2017 All-New Honda CR-V: 1.5-litre VTEC Turbo, Underpowered?


Geneva 2017: Renault Sport F1 and Infiniti Celebrate Partnership with Project Black S

Renault Sport Formula One and Infiniti yesterday announced the Project Black S; a more radical interpretation of the Infiniti Q60 Coupe.
According to Renault, the Project Black S features a stand-out, aerodynamically-optimized new design and also hints at how a performance hybrid powertrain – developed in close collaboration with the Renault Sport Formula One Team – could significantly enhance the performance and dynamics of the Q60.
For instance, the Project Black S, which is powered by a 3.0-litre V6 engine, features an ‘energy recovery system’ (ERS) to harvest energy, deploying recovered electric power to boost power and torque. The result is instant, significant, lag-free acceleration. Inspired by the dual-hybrid system proven in Formula One, the technology does not yet exist in a current road car.
As far as the aesthetics are concerned, the concept vehicle is finished in matt grey and black. Gloss black trim replaces the chrome found on the standard car, which surrounds the double-arch grille and lines the crescent-cut C-pillar.
While the Q60’s design aesthetic remains, the use of carbon fibre has added a more technical element. Not only is the composite more adaptable; it is also incredibly strong, and carbon fibre components could be used to balance aerodynamic efficiency with high downforce.
Large front splitter, rear diffuser, fenders and side skirts are all constructed out of carbon fibre to minimise weight and enhance downforce, while ultra-thin aero ‘blades’ in the side sills ahead of the rear wheels channel air around the lower body of the car. A large fixed rear wing – also made of carbon fibre – stands proud of the trunk lid, increasing downforce at speed.
And then there are the enlarged air intakes up front, new hood vents, vertical rear aero foils, a large rear wing, and forged 21-inch aluminium alloy wheels that are highlighted by wheel arch extensions.
Infiniti said that the Project Black S could represent the maximum level of performance and dynamic capability it offers.


Perodua Sales' MD Rubbishes Axia Steering Lock Issue

Perodua Sales Sdn Bhd Managing Director, Dato’ Dr. Zahari Husin has offered a counterstatement regarding the recent allegations on social media regarding a steering lock issue with the Perodua Axia. Perodua wishes to assure their customers that detailed investigations conducted by them and several government agencies have proved the claims false and unfounded.
Dato’ Dr. Zahari Husin comments, “We regret that some quarters are actively attacking our brand and we are working with the authorities to identify those involved and we will consider appropriate action deemed fit. We assure our customers that all our vehicles have undergone strict safety procedures and tests set both by our own quality control mechanism as well as by government agencies such as SIRIM and the Road Transportation Department (JPJ).”
Zahari adds, “We always welcome any feedback from our customers and have a dedicated team to solve any issues regarding our products and services, if any.”


Delay In Approval Of Car Prices – MITI Responds To MAA

Following yesterday’s press conference by the Malaysia Automotive Association (MAA), where President Datuk Aishah Ahmad revealed that the severe delay in the launch of several locally-assembled models was due to the
refusal of the Ministry of Finance (MoF)
 to make any decisions, MITI (Ministry of International Trade and Industry) has today released its rebuttal.
Replying to Datuk Aishah’s comments that MoF is the pushing the responsibility to ABDC (Automotive Business Development Council), MITI said:
“Since 2006, members of MAA have been applying for incentives to ABDC. In the decision making process, the Cost Benefit Analysis (CBA) is also considered by the Committee. ABDC meetings are held on monthly basis and special ABDC meetings will be convened, if necessary.
“The objective of ABDC is to evaluate and recommend the Industrial Linkage Program (ILP), Multi Sourcing Parts (MSP) and customized incentives for Energy Efficient Vehicle (EEV) under the National Automotive Policy (NAP) 2014. The recommendations by ABDC are for MOF to consider in deciding the amount of duty reduction to be extended to the vehicle companies.”
The various incentives/programmes listed above are for incentivising car companies to manufacture/assemble vehicles here. These incentives offer reduction in excise duties, which ranges from 65 to 105 percent, depending the amount of local content used and type of vehicles produced.
MITI’s clarification however, didn’t address the core issue raised – the delay in approval of incentives. It also did't address MAA's claims that meetings with ABDC did not produce any results, even though car companies are in close contact with the Council.
Datuk Aishah Ahmad, President of Malaysia Automotive Association.
MITI also implied that some car companies have been pocketing the incentives received and not passing it down to consumers.
“It must be noted that the approval letter from MoF also explicitly stipulate that the gains from the incentive received by the vehicle companies are to be passed down to the Rakyat.
“In the previous Administration, some vehicle companies had obtained the incentives directly from MoF, bypassing ABDC. Many of the applications were approved without comprehensive evaluation in determining the return of investment to the Government. However, in line with the aspiration of the new Government, MOF and MITI collectively agreed that the decision making process has to be transparent and fair and should be comprehensively deliberated by ABDC.
“All the due process and governance which has been strengthened under the current Government is primarily for the purpose of ensuring that the incentives are granted and distributed to the worthy and entitled recipients according to the prescribed regulations and guidelines. MITI will always strive to ensure public funds and taxpayers money are utilised optimally for the benefits of the Rakyat.”
There could be some truth behind MITI’s allegations, as the entire topic surrounding the so-called Energy Efficient Vehicles (EEVs), which began under the previous government, is very opaque.
Each manufacturer negotiates for its own incentives and other than obvious criteria like fuel economy, local assembly, and investments, the public doesn’t know exactly how the government evaluates/decides the value of tax incentives given.
We would expect that the more transparent government of today will correct this but this isn’t the case. Until MITI address this closed-door approach in negotiating for EEV incentives, MITI’s claims of championing transparency and accountability of use of public funds is contradictory.


ASEAN NCAP: Five Stars For All-New 2016 Toyota Innova

The upcoming all-new 2016 Toyota Innova, due to be launched in Malaysia shortly before the year ends, possibly in late-Q3 or early-Q4, has been awarded a five-star rating by ASEAN NCAP. The rating however, is only applicable for models equipped with electronic stability control (ESC), also known as VSA in Toyota’s marketing terminology. All other Innova models were given a four-star rating.
The model tested by ASEAN NCAP was an Indonesian market model.
The Innova scored 14.10 points in adult occupant protection, out of a maximum of 16.00 points. Scores above 14.00 points are within the five-star range, but since ESC, as well as seat belt reminder is compulsory for a five-star rating, only higher-end models equipped with ESC are given the full five-star rating.
As for child occupant protection, the Innova, which has ISOFIX with top-tether mounts fitted as standard, scored 79 percent, giving it a four-star rating.
The test was done at the Japan Automobile Research Institute, a partner lab for ASEAN NCAP, as the 1,698 kg Innova exceeded the weight limit of MIROS PC3’s own lab in Melaka.
The Malaysian market Innova is expected to be locally assembled at Toyota’s Assembly Services Sdn. Bhd. plant in Shah Alam. Prices and specifications will only be known as we get closer to its expected launch date in late-2016. The promo video below is for the Indonesian market Innova.


Petronas Rio 2016 Olympics Spend & Win Contest Launched

Petronas
, in collaboration with
Maybank
 and Visa, launched the Rio 2016 Olympic Games Spend & Win contest last week at the Petronas station along Jalan Kolam Air Lama in Ampang.
The contest, which started on 1 April and will run until 1 June 2016, is said to be open to all Visa cardholders in Malaysia, including the Visa Petronas card.
According to Petronas, the Rio 2016 Olympic Games Spend & Win contest just requires one to spend a minimum of RM50 on theirr Visa cards at participating Petronas stations to take part.
While weekly prizes include 10 Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge mobile phones and 120 Petronas Mesra points worth RM200 each, the grand prize of a trip for two to the Rio 2016 Olympic Games will also be rewarded to the winner at the end of the campaign.
“We are excited to be collaborating with Visa and Maybank in bringing this new campaign to our customers as the preferred fuel company in Malaysia for Visa cardholders.  Not only do customers get the chance of a lifetime to see the world's largest, most popular sporting event in Brazil this year – we are topping it off by giving Kad Mesra users up to 10 times more chances at winning the grand prize” said Mohd Ibrahimnuddin Mohd Yunus, managing director and CEO, Petronas Dagangan Berhad.


Prices Announced For All-New Nissan NP300 Navara – From RM104k

Nissan has announced the estimated prices for its all-new NP300 Navara. Prices start from RM104,900 for a decently specified 4WD double-cab model. There’s also two cheaper, basic specs 2.5E double-cab and single-cab models but those are aimed at only commercial users – comes without ABS and only has 16-inch wheels.
Estimated prices are as below. All models are 4WD only.
SE Double-cab MT: RM104,000
SE Double-cab AT: RM109,000
V Double-cab AT: RM115,000
VL Double-cab AT: RM125,000
E Double-cab MT: RM95,000 (without ABS, steel wheels)
Single Cab MT: RM85,000 (Vinyl seats, without ABS, steel wheels)
As mentioned in
our earlier post
, all models are powered by a 2.5-litre variable geometry turbo commonrail intercooled turbo diesel engine, which is available in two power output levels.
Only the most expensive VL model gets the 190 PS engine, while all other models get a 163 PS engine, 11 PS less than the outgoing D40 generation Navara.
Click to enlarge the specifications table below.
Related links:
All-New Nissan NP300 Navara – Full Specifications Revealed


First 50 Owners Receive The Keys To Their Toyota C-HR

UMW Toyota (UMWT) first previewed the highly anticipated Toyota C-HR at Carlist.my’s DRIVE event last year. Since then, UMWT has been promoting and displaying the C-HR at showrooms and roadshows nationwide.
50 weeks after its Malaysian preview, UMWT presented the keys to the first 50 owners of the new Toyota C-HR at the Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival season finale event. Priced from RM145,500, the Thailand-imported C-HR is only available in a single variant.
"Since being previewed last year, interest in the new Toyota C-HR has been high. To date, we have received around 1,500 bookings for the model and because this is a unique model, we wanted to personally handover the C-HR to our first 50 customers," said President of UMWT Mr. Ravindran K.
Built on Toyota’s latest TNGA architecture, the C-HR (Compact High Rider) promises greater driver engagement than other similar offering by Toyota in the past. The C-HR rides on newly developed Macpherson struts suspension in front and double-wishbones in the rear. Toyota adds that large-diameter stabilizers and shock absorbers with optimized damping characteristics provides superior steering stability and a comfortable ride.
Compared to the competitors, the C-HR is somewhat in the middle in sizing (length and width). It is larger than its equivalent engine-sized competitor, the Honda HR-V, as well as the stylish Mazda CX-3, while smaller than the similarly priced Volkswagen Tiguan and Peugeot 3008.
Engine and transmission
Only one powertrain is offered by UMWT. The 2ZR-FBE 1.8-litre engine generate outputs of 140 PS and 171 Nm of torque, 2 Nm less than the engine in the Corolla Altis.  Power is transmitted to the front wheels via a CVT-type automatic that also allow for manual shifting of 7-virtual ratios.
Standard Features
Automatic on/off halogen projector headlamps
LED daytime running lights (DRL)
Auto folding side mirrors with puddle light
215/60 R17 tyres, silver rims
Diamond-pattern inspired interior
Sporty front seats
Black leather upholstery
4.2-inch coloured information display with G-Force monitor
Electric parking brake with hold function
Infotainment - 7-inch touchscreen, DVD player, HDMI, Wi-Fi, Internet browser, 6 speakers, and reverse camera
7 airbags, including driver knee airbag
Tyre pressure monitoring system
Blind spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert (RCTA)
Colour options include two dual-tone schemes (additional RM848) - Blue Metallic with
Black
 roof and Red Mica with Black roof. Single body colour is available in White Pearl (also RM848 extra), Metal Stream Metallic, and Attitude Black Mica.
All new Toyota C-HR models will be backed by a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty that is transferrable to the next owner shall all terms and conditions be met.
Read more:
December 2017 - Toyota C-HR Estimated Price From RM145.5k, Only One 1.8-litre Variant
December 2017 - Toyota C-HR Hybrid Previewed at Thailand Motor Expo Ahead of Q1'18 Launch
Nov 2017 - Malaysia-Spec Toyota C-HR to be Displayed at MAI Autoshow 2017
May 2017 - Toyota C-HR Previewed at the Carlist.my DRIVE Event