Paris 2018: VinFast To Debut Vietnam's First Domestic Cars - A Sedan And An SUV

Vietnamese car company VinFast will be introducing two new models at the 2018 Paris Motor Show, an SUV and a sedan. Both models will be assembled in VinFast’s state-of-the-art facility in northern Vietnam.
According to VinFast, the two new models feature Vietnamese spirit, Italian design, and German technology, as Vietnamese voted for their favourite design last year with Pininfarina’s design being the crowd favourite.
 VinFast is also working with European technology partners to engineer products that meet international standard as the company aims to export to foreign markets in the coming years.
In addition to working with European technology partners, VinFast has also hired senior executives from other leading automotive companies.
Technical information of the two new models are unknown at this point of time, but we expect more information to be made known once the models debut at the Paris Motor Show in October.
James DeLuca, CEO of VinFast Trading and Production LLC said, “We have the resources, scalability and commitment to become a significant new player in the global automotive industry. We are immensely proud to be the first volume automotive manufacturer in Vietnam, and the first to participate in a major international motor show. We look forward to introducing our new brand and two new models in Paris. Our show stand will also prominently feature the best of Vietnam, demonstrating the passion and tenacity that we will bring to the global automotive stage.”


Perodua Has Put Over 100,000 Third Generation Myvis On The Road

When the third generation Perodua Myvi D20N was launched, it was met with incredible market response. People were lining up to put money down on the best selling hatchback in Malaysia, and what was more surprising was the breakdown in specific variant sales - which were completely unexpected, in Perodua's eyes.
With huge demand for the top-spec 1.5 AV variant flying in the face of their planning for more 1.3 units, Perodua had a large back order to work through with a long waiting list. Working tirelessly through tax holidays and changes in policy, Perodua managed to clear this backlog and to date has put over 100,000 units of the third generation Myvi on our roads.
Since production started, that's an average of 1,560 Myvis finding new owners every week, and brings the total number of Myvis sold across all generations to a staggering 1.1 million units. The work is still far from over. Just as quickly as Perodua can clear their outstanding bookings, they pick more up at a near-alarming rate.
There are still around 50,000 owners who are waiting for their Myvis, and Perodua is working as hard as they can to get these cars to their owners. The best-selling brand in Malaysia had a great 2018, closing with a record 227,243 cars sold and making them top manufacturer in Malaysia for the 13th year running.


Enthusiast’s Diary – The Many Ways Up Genting

“Can your car go up Genting Highlands?”
Malaysia’s one and only casino resort is a popular hangout spot for driving enthusiasts for a number of reasons. First, its distance from the Klang Valley is just right – far enough to give one’s car a good workout, but near enough that one can be there and back before lunch time.
Depending on preference, there are several routes to choose from – Karak Highway, Ulu Yam via Batang Kali, the old Jalan Gombak, take your pick. The possibilities are endless, whichever combinations of route you choose, you have a good blend of curves and mountain roads to give yourself and your car a good dynamic workout – even before you reach Genting.
It is for the reasons espoused above that a run to Genting Highlands is my preferred route for putting my test cars through their paces. I used to go all the way to the top, but because of extensive road works further up the hill, I just turn back at Gohtong Jaya these days; or push on to Chin Swee temple, at most.
Getting there, the Karak Highway is the quickest and easiest route, and no less satisfying, offering a decent number of fast-sweeping bends along the way. If you’re on a tight schedule, it’s the best way to take. There is time to stop at Gohtong Jaya for coffee and still be back in the Klang Valley by lunch time – most of the time, it’s my default route when putting our test cars through their paces. Keep a healthy balance on your Touch ‘n Go card though, toll charges are RM6 each way.
The old Jalan Gombak saves a few bucks of toll money. Its surface is relatively well-maintained; it’s the lesser-travelled route and is more challenging than the highway. I used to frequent this route, but less so in recent times as stretches are susceptible to mud slides and overtaking is difficult because most corners are tight and blind – you can find yourself stuck behind that slow-moving lorry for a very long time indeed. It is also very isolated – help can be slow to arrive in the event you get into an accident or breakdown.
For a more leisurely drive, the route via Ulu Yam and Batang Kali is the one to take. It leads you up Genting via a back road connecting to Gohtong Jaya. To get the best enjoyment out of this road, one needs a car powered by a responsive engine and underpinned by a finely-balanced chassis – as I found out during a leisurely breakfast run recently, a
Ford Focus
 wouldn’t go amiss here.
The road’s full name, Jalan Hulu Yam Bharu – Batu Caves can be quite a handful to type in your GPS. Find your way to Jalan Sungai Tua instead. If you’re coming from the direction of Selayang, watch out for the Petronas Bandar Baru Selayang station on your left and be ready to turn right in less than 500m. Alternatively, here are the navigation links for
Waze
 and
Google Maps
.
The road starts off straight with a climbing gradient before easing into the first bend. You have two lanes at your disposal for the first kilometre; be sure to make the best of it - the double white line stretches on for seven kilometres after this. The Focus’ 180PS EcoBoost engine came in real handy passing some of the slower cars that struggled to climb the slope.
Two kilometres into the route comes the Batu Dam Lake to your left. A rest point comes up soon – a good place for convoys to regroup or just to enjoy the sight of the lake. After tracing the lake’s perimeter for a good three kilometres, the road then cuts through about nine kilometres of the Selangor State Park’s reserve forest.
Tarmac condition is decent, with very few potholes and patches to speak of; but watch out for undulations that can upset overly-stiff suspension setups, particularly whilst going round bends. The
Focus’ suspension
 was especially suited to these roads – it had enough pliancy to maintain composure over uneven parts of the road surface enabling us to confidently power through.
Civilization beckons again about 19 kilometres or so into the route as you approach Kampung Pasir and Hulu Yam Bharu town. There is a good variety of small eateries along the two-kilometre stretch before making the right turn into Jalan Batang Kali – Hulu Yam Bharu. Fruit and snack stalls aplenty too.
A mere two kilometres after leaving Hulu Yam Bharu town is the cross junction on which you turn right to enter the Jalan Batang Kali – Genting Highlands backroad to Gohtong Jaya. Much of this 15 kilometre road is uphill, with plenty of corners to satisfy the enthusiast – the bends are tighter too, but the terrain offers good enough visibility for safe overtaking at many points along the way.
Here, the Focus’ quick steering kept the car faithfully pointed where we wanted, and its powerful EcoBoost engine came in handy when powering through overtaking windows of opportunity. The suspension also manages load at each corner well enough that transitions between bends are smooth and reassuring the electronic stability control and traction control systems provide that final sense of security that minimized the likelihood of an untoward incident.
The last three kilometres approaching the Genting Skyway station is fully covered by a double white line, if you’re stuck behind slow-moving traffic, this final approaching stretch can be incredibly painful and frustrating. Of course, as you near Genting, be mindful of the permanent police checkpoint.
Geography lesson – less than a kilometre after passing the Genting Skyway station, you would have crossed state borders from Selangor into Pahang.
From Gohtong Jaya, there is a major decision to make; I usually prefer to deliberate it over a cup of coffee at one of the many eateries available, but the choices here are a further push to the hilltop, a quick return to the Klang Valley via the Karak Highway, or backtracking the Ulu Yam route for more action. If one’s really up for it, a run back to Klang Valley on the old Jalan Gombak works too.
At this point, you can see that these roads represent a potent mix of business and pleasure for this motoring writer. More than just a testing ground for our reviews, the roads to Genting give the enthusiast genuine satisfying joy exploring the dynamics of their vehicles. The best part is, you can try any combination of them, and they are all varying degrees of fun.


Geely Opens New R&D Centre In Germany Focusing On Premium Electric Cars

Geely Auto Group has opened a new research and development facility at Raunheim, Germany, to accelerate innovation in new propulsion systems and next-generation mobility technology.
The Geely Auto Technical Deutschland (GATD) facility, which is located close to the Frankfurt international airport, is expected to employ around 300 engineers and technology specialists within the next few years, as the group accelerates its presence in electrification and new energy vehicles.
The new centre will have a particular focus on developing premium electric cars, augmenting existing work that is already underway at facilities across the Geely network, which includes the world-leading Geely Research Institute in Hangzhou Bay as well as the China Euro Vehicle Technology (CEVT) in Gothenburg, and centres in Linjiang, China, and Coventry, UK.
The Geely Auto Group currently has over 20,000 engineers, from which over 2,500 are focused on new energy technologies.
The new research and development centre will be report directly to Feng Qing Feng, Vice President and Chief Technology Officer of Geely Auto Group.
“We are delighted to extend our worldwide R&D capabilities to Germany, where we hope to take advantage of high-quality skills and technical capabilities in the country’s automotive industry. Technologies developed at GATD will enhance the pace of innovation at our portfolio of brands, which are pioneering new systems in electrification, autonomous-drive systems and connectivity,” said Feng.


Langgar Lari: Lelaki Maut Dirempuh Lori Ketika Tukar Tayar Kereta Di Lorong Kecemasan

Seorang lelaki maut di depan mata isteri serta anaknya selepas dilanggar oleh sebuah lori Kilometer 218.7
Lebuhraya Utara Selatan (PLUS)
 arah Selatan, berdekatan Alor Gajah.

Menurut Ketua Polis Daerah Alor Gajah, Superintenden Arshad Abu, kemalangan tersebut berlaku ketika mangsa bersama keluarga menaiki kereta jenis
Proton Perdana
 dalam perjalanan dari arah Batu Gajah ke Skudai.

Namun sebaik sahaja tiba di lokasi kejadian, tayar belakang di sebelah kiri Proton Perdana itu didapati pancit dan memaksa mangsa untuk memberhentikan kenderaannya di lorong kecemasan untuk menukar
tayar
 tersebut.

Tetapi malang tidak berbau, selepas mangsa selesai menggantikan tayar, mangsa telah dilanggar secara tiba-tiba oleh sebuah lori yang tidak dikenal pasti. Lebih menyedihkan, kejadian itu disaksikan sendiri oleh isteri dan anaknya.

Mangsa yang berumur 42 tahun itu disahkan meninggal dunia di tempat kejadian ekoran kecederaan parah yang dialaminya. Menurut keterangan isteri mangsa, lori yang telah membunuh suami serta ayah kepada anaknya itu langsung tidak berhenti setelah pelanggaran berlaku dan telah meneruskan perjalanan.

Kejadian yang berlaku dalam masa singkat itu membuatkan keluarga mangsa terkejut dan gagal mengecam
nombor pendaftaran
 lori terbabit. Tambahan pula, kawasan tersebut tidak mempunyai kamera litar tertutup (CCTV).

Buat masa ini, pihak polis sedang berusaha untuk mengesan lori terbabit. Saksi kejadian atau sesiapa yang mempunyai maklumat berhubung kemalangan maut itu diminta menghubungi mana-mana balai polis berhampiran untuk membantu siasatan. Mayat mangsa telah dihantar ke Jabatan Forensik Hospital Alor Gajah bagi proses bedah siasat dan kes disiasat mengikut Seksyen 41 (1) Akta Pengangkutan Jalan 1987.

Bagi mengurangkan risiko daripada dilanggar oleh kenderaan lain sewaktu anda sedang berhenti di bahu jalan atau di lorong kecemasan, anda boleh ikuti tips di bawah:

Hidupkan Lampu Isyarat Kecemasan

Setelah memberhentikan kereta di lorong kecemasan, hidupkan lampu kecemasan pada kenderaan anda. Fungsi utama lampu kecemasan itu digunakan adalah ketika kenderaan mempunyai masalah di jalan raya dan terpaksa berhenti. Lampu kecemasan yang dipasang akan bertindak memberi amaran kepada pemandu di belakang anda.

Buat Panggilan Kecemasan

Jika kereta anda rosak tiba-tiba ketika dipandu, terus hubungi syarikat insurans anda dan nyatakan perkara penting seperti situasi dan lokasi anda. Syarikat insurans perlu dimaklumkan terlebih dahulu supaya bantuan boleh dihantar secapat mungkin. Kemudian baru hubungi ahli keluarga atau rakan-rakan untuk maklumkan keadaan anda.

Perkhidmatan Tunda Percuma

Anda juga boleh mendapatkan khidmat trak tunda percuma daripada syarikat insurans anda selain diberi kebebasan untuk memilih sendiri pusat servis atau bengkel untuk membaik pulih kenderaan anda. Servis ini adalah percuma dan boleh digunakan sekurang-kurangnya 2-3 kali setahun bergantung pada polisi insurans anda.

Sediakan Kon Dan Jaket Keselamatan

Untuk memastikan kenderaan lain peka dengan situasi anda di tepi jalan, pastikan anda menyediakan kon keselamatan sekurang-kurangnya 10-15 meter daripada kenderaan anda. Untuk lebih penekanan, pakai jaket keselamatan yang boleh memantulkan cahaya agar mudah dikesan oleh kenderaan lain, terutama pada waktu malam.

Elakkan Berhenti Di Kawasan Selekoh

Perkara paling penting untuk memberhentikan kereta adalah pemilihan lokasi yang sesuai. Jangan sesekali memberhentikan kenderaan anda di kawasan selekoh atau kawasan yang terlindung daripada penglihatan pemandu lain dari jarak jauh.

*Gambar Hiasan

Walaupun k
emalangan itu sesuatu yang tidak boleh dijangka, diharapkan perkongsian ini mampu mengurangkan risiko daripada dilanggar oleh pemandu lain ketika anda dilanda musibah seperti kereta rosak secara tiba-tiba yang memaksa anda memberhentikan kereta di tepi jalan.


Lorry Rams Through 10 Illegally Parked Cars In Putrajaya

In Putrajaya
, a white unmarked lorry rammed through 10 parked cars alongside a narrow road behind the Parcel E government complex.

The single-lane road was already a narrow one but made even narrower by car owners
illegally parking
 on both sides, eventually leaving the lorry no room to manoeuvre as the road continued to taper.

That said, like elbowing through a crowded area, the driver in question chose to use the size and bulk of the lorry to forcibly push the parked cars
out of the way
.

Being parked tightly next to a curb and with a 2-tonne lorry scraping against them, the cars took on quite a bit of damage, as seen in both amateur footage (taken from a motorcycle rider) of the aftermath and CCTV - both shared on social media.

Some cars escaped with just scraped paint along their sides while others suffered broken wing mirrors and bashed fenders. A red Vios and silver Axia got the worst of it with the Toyota being rear-ended and pushed into the Perodua.

Putrajaya police chief ACP A. Asmadi Abdul Aziz, when contacted by media outlets, confirmed that the incident occurred yesterday afternoon, but declined to provide additional details.

No charges have been issued to the lorry driver as of now, nor to the company that owns the commercial vehicle, though that might be forthcoming in the next few days.

Also, the fact that so many Malaysians working in Putrajaya have to leave their cars along narrow no-parking zone roads shows the lack of proper convenient parking facilities in the political capital.

Both seem to be in the wrong on some level here. The lorry driver’s actions directly caused damage to 10 vehicles, but then again those cars were parked there illegally and were essentially blocking the road.

Which side do you think is to blame?


Kereta Panas: Tips Pendingin Hawa Kereta Kekal Sejuk dan Tahan lama

Apabila pendingin hawa terlalu kerap digunakan, lambat laun prestasinya mungkin akan menurun dan tidak dapat memberikan fungsi optimum. Adakah anda tergolong daripada mereka yang mempunyai masalah pendingin hawa kereta tak sejuk atau lambat sejuk? Ikuti tips yang diberikan di bawah bagi memastikan pendingin kereta anda kekal sejuk dan tahan lama.

Dengan cuaca panas di negara ini, pendingin hawa dalam kereta merupakan sesuatu yang wajib ada pada kereta-kereta di negara ini. Namun seperti komponen-komponen kereta yang lain, komponen yang terlibat dengan pendinginan suhu kabin ini juga dikira sebagai salah satu
penjagaan asas kereta
 agar ianya sentiasa berfungsi dengan baik.

Perkara pertama yang hadir dalam fikiran kebanyakan pengguna kereta ketika pendingin hawa kereta tak sejuk adalah disebabkan oleh gas pendingin hawa yang telah habis. Anda mungkin betul dan mungkin tidak. Kalau gas habis, tambah gas sahaja dah selesai masalah. Namun jika terdapat kebocoran pada hos atau saluran pendingin hawa kereta anda, gas tersebut akan habis dalam waktu yang singkat sahaja. Jadi sia-sia sahaja anda bazirkan duit untuk mengisi gas.

Untuk mengenali punca pendingin hawa kereta anda tidak berfungsi dengan baik, anda perlu melakukan pemeriksaan pada bahagian seperti berikut:

Periksa kebocoran pada hos atau saluran

Periksa keadaan evaporator (cooling coil)

Periksa keadaan compressor

Jika komponen-komponen yang disebutkan di atas mempunyai kerosakan, segeralah pergi hantar ke
pusat servis
 sebelum mengisi gas secara membabi buta. Selain itu, anda juga boleh ikuti tips di bawah bagi memastikan pendingin hawa kereta anda sentiasa dalam keadaan baik dan tahan lama.

Elakkan Sinaran Matahari Secara Terus Ketika Parkir

Pertama sekali, elakkan daripada meninggalkan kereta anda di kawasan terbuka atau tidak berbumbung untuk tempoh yang lama. Ini akan menyebabkan udara dalam kabin menjadi panas dan pendingin hawa anda akan mengambil sedikit masa untuk menghilangkan udara panas tersebut. Sebaiknya, gunalah kepingan pelindung matahari bagi menghalang cahaya dari masuk dan memanggang kereta anda. Barulah tak rasa seperti memandu dalam microwave. Kalau nak lebih mudah, pasang
tinted gelap
 tapi pastikan yang 'JPJ approved' - ini akan memberi perlindungan daripada sinar UV matahari menembusi cermin kereta anda. Barulah kereta anda tidak menjadi seperti akuarium yang dipanggang matahari.

Keluarkan Udara Panas

Sekiranya anda gagal menemukan parkir berbumbung, tidak mengapa. Sebaliknya, sewaktu menaiki kereta tersebut, buka tingkap seluasnya dan pandu kereta anda terlebih dahulu. Tekniknya sama je bila anda atau penumpang kereta melepaskan angin dalam kereta di mana anda cuma perlu turunkan tingkap sambil memandu bagi membuatkan bau bedilan tersebut hilang. Sama lah juga proses membuang udara panas ini. Biarkan udara panas yang terkumpul dalam kabin keluar terlebih dahulu dan biarkan udara sejuk luar masuk. Baru tak struggle sangat pendingin hawa tu nak sejukkan kabin lepas udara panas tu dah dikeluarkan.

Guna Mod Pendingin Hawa Yang Betul

Bila pendingin hawa kereta sudah dihidupkan, pastikan anda sentiasa menggunakan mod recirculation atau kitaran udara dalam kereta supaya udara sejuk yang dihasilkan oleh pendingin hawa kereta dapat berkitaran di dalam kabin. Sekiranya anda menggunakan mod udara luar, kereta anda berpotensi untuk lambat sejuk kerana mod udara luar bergantung pada keadaan trafik dan cuaca di luar. Dengan menggunakan mod udara dalam, pendingin hawa kereta boleh bekerja dengan lebih santai dan kabin dapat disejukkan dengan lebih cepat.

Pastikan Kereta Bersih

Kebersihan kereta juga memainkan peranan pada pendingin hawa kereta anda. Pastikan kabin anda bebas dari debu dan habuk yang keterlaluan kerana ia boleh menjejaskan kebersihan dan kualiti udara yang dibekalkan. Selain itu, bersihkan kereta anda dengan buang segala daun kering atau objek asing yang terdapat pada gril kereta terutamanya pada bahagian luaran cermin hadapan supaya benda asing tersebut tidak disedut masuk ke dalam pendingin hawa kereta anda yang boleh menyebabkan ia tersumbat.

Tukar Minyak Compressor Secara Berkala

Kenapa penting untuk anda tukar minyak compressor? Ini kerana jika anda sekadar topup sahaja minyak baharu, campuran minyak baru dan lama akan membuatkan minyak baharu tersebut kurang efisyen. Tindakan menambah minyak ini juga boleh menyebabkan berlaku lebihan minyak melebihi spesifikasi yang ditetapkan pada compressor. Minyak compressor ini penting kerana ia berfungsi sebagai bahan pelincir kepada pendingin hawa yang bekerja dalam keadaan panas dan mempunyai tekanan yang tinggi. Kalau tak diperiksa kandungan minyak ini, kos yang jauh lebih besar akan menanti anda jika kerosakan berlaku. Sebaiknya, lakukanlah servis flushing untuk mengeluarkan sisa minyak lama sebelum menukar kepada minyak compressor baharu.

Cuci Dan Tukar Penapis Udara Kabin

Bagi yang kerap menggunakan kereta, eloklah sekiranya anda menukar
penapis angin atau air filter
 sekurang-kurangnya 6 bulan sekali. Kalau anda abaikan bahagian ini, selain daripada menerima aliran udara yang tidak lancar, ia turut berisiko untuk membuatkan cooling coil kotor serta kipas angin tidak berpusing dengan kuat sekaligus menyebabkan pendingin hawa anda tidak berapa sejuk. Bila cooling coil anda kotor dan bermasalah, ia juga boleh mengakibatkan kebocoran bukan sahaja pada cooling coil, malah pada poket anda sekali. Sedar-sedar duit dah habis digunakan untuk baikpulih kebocoran terbabit. Nak lebih selamat, periksa dan bersihkanlah penapis udara tersebut setiap sebulan sekali.

Bersihkan Condenser Pendingin Hawa

Selain anda melakukan penyelenggaraan tetap dan berjadual pada komponen condenser pendingin hawa kereta anda, anda juga boleh mengambil inisiatif untuk membersihkan condenser anda agar bebas dari sebarang habuk dan kotoran yang berpotensi untuk menyebabkan pendingin hawa anda gagal berfungsi dengan baik. Paling afdal, bersihkan condenser anda setiap kali anda
mencuci kereta
anda. Sekali jalan sahaja kan senang?

Servis Berkala Sekurang-kurangnya Setahun Sekali / 30.000 km

Servis berkala
 ini membantu anda untuk sentiasa tahu akan keadaan komponen bahagian-bahagian pada sistem pendingin hawa kereta anda, tambah-tambah pada mereka yang malas nak periksa komponen pendingin hawa ini secara sendiri. Komponen-komponen
alatganti
 seperti expansion valve dan penapis dan condenser juga penting dan perlu diperiksa. Selain minyak compressor perlu ditukar, cecair penyejuk juga perlu ditukar agar kabin kekal sejuk. Seeloknya, lakukan pemeriksaan menyeluruh pada sistem pendingin hawa anda sekurang-kurangnya setahun sekali atau setiap 30,000 km.

Namun, wujud beberapa kenyataan yang mengatakan sekiranya pendingin hawa kereta ditetapkan pada tahap maksimum, ia akan merosakkan pendingin hawa kereta. Betul ke? Jawapanya tidak! Kereta zaman sekarang ni semua dah maju dah, malah ada yang boleh
kawal pendingin hawa guna suara sahaja.
 Apabila kabin kereta anda mencapai tahap kesejukan maksimum seperti yang anda tetapkan, compressor akan bertindak untuk cut-off secara automatik. Jadi tiada istilah terlalu sejuk bagi pendingin hawa kereta anda. Jika cermin kereta berkabus kerana terlalu sejuk, gunakan sahaja
butang pemanas cermin
 untuk hilangkan kabus.

Pendek kata, asalkan anda sentiasa melakukan pemeriksaan berkala pada sistem pendingin hawa kereta anda, tiada masalah pun sekiranya anda mahu menggunakan pendingin hawa anda di tahap maksimum. Pastikan pendingin hawa kereta anda diservis secara berdisiplin supaya pendingin hawa kereta anda berada dalam keadaan baik-baik sahaja.

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Bentley Announces Own Luxury Ride Hailing App

Bentley has announced its own luxury ride hailing app called Bentley on Demand, designed to provide customers with a luxury mobility solution wherever they may be.
Available only to existing Bentley owners who use the brand’s Network App, Bentley on Demand is expected to be launched towards the end of this year.
The announcement comes just six months after the company’s successful trial with Filld, a concierge refueling service app.
According to Bentley, the ride-hailing service was created mainly to avoid its customers from going through the inconvenience and disruption of traditional rental car services.
All owners need to do to enjoy the app is download it, validate his or her account, and choose a suitable Bentley from the extensive luxury fleet available.
Following a confirmation, a reminder of the reservation will be sent an hour before delivery, and the customer will receive another message to inform them of the concierge’s arrival with the car.
Bentley claims that the service was designed to ensure seamless delivery of the car to a convenient location with minimal disruption to the Bentley Network member.
As part of the service, the concierge will also explain and demonstrate the car’s features upon delivery.
When the reservation has ended, the same Bentley concierge will meet the customer at their preferred location to collect the car.
With trials all set to begin next month, Bentley on Demand is the third luxury ride hailing app to be launched by a manufacturer this year in the U.S, following Cadillac’s Book and Lincoln’s Chauffeur on Demand service.


Thailand Makes The Honda Civic Hatchback, Plans for Export To Other Markets

Honda Thailand have officially launched the Honda Civic Hatchback for the Thai market. The Thai-assembled Civic hatchback is priced at THB 1,169 million (RM148k), and as our sister site
Auto Spinn
confirms, will be exported to other markets in later stages.
The first appearance in the ASEAN region came at
GIIAS

2016
, garnering much fanfare from the start, last month, Honda Thailand
confirmed the model launch
. Thailand is the second country in the world to produce the Civic Hatchback,
after the U.K
.
Spec wise, the hatchback is similar to the sedan. The hatch is powered by Honda’s 1.5-litre VTEC Turbo four-cylinder that outputs 173 PS at 5500rpm and 220Nm of torque between 1700rpm and 5500rpm. Power is sent to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
Besides the suite of safety features, the Civic hatch also receives convenience features such as the Auto Brake Hold, Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) and Walk-Away auto lock, first featured on the sedan model.
Visually, the Civic hatch gets a sportier front bumper with bigger foglamp enclosures, and more aggressive skirt design, while the grille is finished in high-gloss black, versus the chrome units on the sedan. The hatch is also offered with a Black Midnight Burgundy Pearl highlight colour exclusive for the hatch.
On the inside, the hatchback offers a 60:40 split folding rear seats to aid practicality. Elsewhere, the 7-inch touch screen ‘Advance Touch Control’ infotainment system is present, the system is compatible with Apple CarPlay.
Honda is quiet at this juncture about the eventual markets it plans to export the Civic hatchback. However, it would probably not make it here.
Honda Malaysia’s
CEO Katsuto Hayashi previously suggested
 that the Civic Hatchback is unlikely to come to Malaysia, as there is little demand for hatchbacks. Additionally, since we know of
four big reveals
 Honda Malaysia plans to make this year, the Civic hatchback is unlikely to be one of them.


RC Trucks Take on a Full-Sized Toyota Hilux in Brand's Latest Web Series

There are many ways of showcasing a vehicle’s unique features and capabilities.
More often than not, manufacturers just release promo videos with uplifting music and someone with a sexy voice talking about how great the vehicle is.
However, some brands do get very creative at times. For instance, Toyota UK has chosen a rather unusual but super adorable and fun way of promoting
the new Hilux
 and its capabilities – by comparing it with a remote controlled (RC) version of itself.
What Toyota's UK arm did is that they put together a web series called "Hilux Little and Large” which comprises four videos showing a full-size Toyota Hilux pickup doing some truck stuff while a radio-controlled, 1:10-scale Toyota Hilux from Tamiya also does the same things at a smaller scale.
If you see the videos, there's a wade-off, muddy drifts and even an attempt to pull the big Hilux using many little ones.
The highlight is probably the final video in the series titled "Tow," in which we can see the Hilux being put against its mini version on a slalom course.
The best part is that each Hilux has a trailer loaded with a Toyota 86. The RC truck gets to tow an RC car too, and the pickups manoeuvring themselves while pulling a trailer through the course is probably the most entertaining thing you’ll see today.


Review: Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI – Refining an Icon

With over 30 million units spread across the world, the
Volkswagen Golf
 is one of the world’s most recognizable cars. In terms of ubiquity, it is right up there with the
Toyota Corolla
 and it is without doubt one of the most iconic vehicles of the
Volkswagen
 brand.
Figuratively speaking, the Golf is the spine of Volkswagen and this statement has never been truer today. The current Golf 7’s modular platform is being scaled to all sizes to underpin cars of all sizes across the Volkswagen Group. The importance of this model to the folks at Wolfsburg, therefore, cannot be overstated.
The Golf 7 is now four years old. Although it remains a highly sophisticated vehicle, that’s still advancing years in the automotive world. In an effort to inject fresh impetus to the product, Volkswagen Malaysia has recently announced two new variants of the Golf that offer updated equipment at more competitive prices.
Specifications:
Variant Tested: Highline
Price: RM160,635, on-the-road without insurance
Engine: 1.4-litre, Inline-4 Transverse, Turbocharged, Petrol Direct Injection
Power: 150PS @ 5,000 – 6,000rpm
Torque: 250Nm @ 1,500 – 3,500rpm
Transmission: 7-speed dual clutch, FWD
Safety: 7 airbags, ABS, ESC, ISOFIX (rear), multi-collision brakes, front and rear parking sensors, drowsiness detection.
Origin: Fully imported from Germany
Overview
The Golf family in Malaysia splits into three branches – the mainstream Golf TSI that we are reviewing here, the sporty
Golf GTI
, and the hard core performance
Golf R
. They are sufficiently distinct that Volkswagen Malaysia’s official website lists them as separate model lines.
Globally, the regular Golf is available with a variety of turbocharged petrol and diesel engines, but as is usually the case for Malaysia, a solitary petrol powertrain is made available as the only choice. The familiar EA211 1.4 TSI continues to be featured, albeit with slight revisions to its outputs.
Peak power of the single turbo engine has been raised from 140PS of the 2012 launch spec to 150PS, although delivery of the maximum is squeezed through a narrow window of revs. In the original engines, full power was available from 4,500 to 6,000rpm, as opposed to the current spread between 5,000 and 6,000rpm. Peak torque remains unchanged at 250Nm @ 1,500 – 3,500rpm.
Transmission continues to be the existing 7-speed dry clutch DSG as before, but the paddle shifters that were previously available have been removed for this 2016 re-spec.
Buyers of the Golf now have a choice between two trim levels, both of which are priced lower than the existing variant. There is the basic Comfortline variant priced at RM150,635 on-the-road without insurance, or the better-furnished Highline as tested in this review asking for RM10k more. Detailed equipment breakdown between the two variants is listed in our
intro story of this re-spec
.
Due to the peculiarities of the Malaysian market, the Golf TSI exists in a class of one. Theoretically, it competes in the C-segment against the
Ford Focus
, but import duties imposed on the Golf’s German origins have pushed it to a higher price bracket than locally-assembled and ASEAN-sourced rivals.
Exterior
The Golf 7’s familiar shape requires no further introduction to us here, although both variants of the 2016 re-spec receive subtle alterations from the preceding model.
Starting from the front, the dynamic bi-xenon headlamps of the 2012 model are deleted, replaced with halogen reflectors in the Comfortline model. The Highline model still gets xenon illumination, but it no longer has auto-swivelling and the distinctive LED daytime running lights; these two functions being replaced by static cornering lights and halogen bulbs respectively.
Still on the subject of lights, the Highline model has been updated to incorporate Golf R-style LED tail lights, whilst the Comfortline model carries on with the existing items. Similarly, the Comfortline also retains the existing model’s 16-inch Dover alloys, with the Highline model upgraded to 17-inch Madrid rollers.

Interior
If you’re the type that favours classy and understated environments, the Golf’s cabin will make for very pleasant surroundings indeed. Overall arrangement of the interior is executed with tasteful restraint accompanied by an agreeable palate of materials from front to back.
It is also an easy place to live in. Volkswagen evidently configured the dashboard with sensibility as its buzzword and the result is a layout of instruments and controls that are clear, intuitive, and with quality switchgear placed within easy reach of the driver. A deep recess ahead of the transmission lever and two lidded boxes along the centre console provide ample accommodation for your Smart Tag, wallet, phones, and keys on the move.
Fit and finish is generally good throughout, although unfortunately marred by unexplained rattles coming from behind the instrument panel whenever our test car went over a hump or rutted surface. This is not something we’ve experienced with previous Golf 7 demo units, so this is probably a one-off.
How does it drive?
Previous acquaintances with the Golf and indeed any Volkswagen Group vehicle underpinned by the new generation MQB platform show a common theme of well-polished driving dynamics featuring sharp handling characteristics as well as a high degree of mechanical refinement. The vehicle gives the general impression that its various individual parts are meticulously honed to work with each other in perfect harmony.
Around bends, the Golf steers with commendable poise and neutrality whilst serving a decent amount of feedback through the steering. The rack filters out enough kick back to not be bothersome, yet lets enough info through to permit accurate judging of available grip on the driver’s part. Steering assist is also calibrated with a just right feel – not too heavy to be burdensome in tight spaces, not too light that its unnerving at high speeds. Overall, the chassis tuning covers a wide enough base of talents to appeal to enthusiasts and non-enthusiasts alike.
The on-paper addition of 10PS does not seem to have significantly enhanced the Golf’s straight line performance, although the original 140PS tune, in fairness, already offered adequate punch for most needs. In this respect, the twincharged Jetta 1.4 TSI still offers more substantial acceleration when push comes to shove. We did notice slightly increased amount of turbo lag compared to the 2012 model.
Having started offering dual clutch transmissions in the Golf for nearly a decade by now, Volkswagen’s experience with this technology exceeds most of it peers. Much of what we typically complain about these transmissions, namely their infamous low speed jerkiness, have been effectively eliminated from this latest iteration. There are inevitably question marks as to the long term reliability of these transmissions, but that’s something that can only be answered over a proper ownership cycle. For would-be punters, our advice is to be pro-active with maintenance and ensure fluids are changed regularly.
We also need to highlight a characteristic of the Golf’s auto start/stop system, which kills the engine before the vehicle comes to a full stop. It also does not immediately restart the vehicle upon release of the brake pedal when the electronic parking brake’s auto hold feature is in use – you’ll need to step on the accelerator pedal to restart the engine, that can make for less than smooth take-offs. Isolation of vibrations is well-sorted, however. All being said, our word of advice is to de-activate auto start/stop in a traffic jam.
How comfortable is it?
One of the Golf 7’s standout quality when launched was its impressive balance of dynamic handling with supple ride achieved without the need for any trick electronic suspension control. Whilst adaptive dampers are offered as options in the regular Golf TSI overseas, Malaysia-spec vehicles do not get this feature, but do not feel in any way the worse for it. This contrasts the case of the Golf GTI, which requires the fitment of DCC to get not only good handling, but a decent ride as well.
Fast forward to the 2016 model, our Highline spec test car felt slightly firmer than what we recall of the 2012 model, but our suspicion is that the added minor jiggles felt over road patches are the result of the upsized rims and lower profile tyres. We have yet to test the Comfortline model with 16-inch rims, but we suspect the ride should live up to the name of its trim level. Overall, however, it’s still a relatively comfortable place to be in. Certainly, it’s way more forgiving to live with than the
Mercedes A180
 we drove recently.
How economical is it?
Volkswagen may have been a little naughty with their diesel emission numbers, but we know from experience that these guys know a thing or two about making fuel efficient cars.
We didn’t quite meet Volkswagen’s claimed average consumption of 5.0 litres/100km, but a reading of 8.5 litres/100km on our trip computer still puts the Golf TSI as one of the more economical cars we’ve tested in recent times. As usual, our 450km test route covered a mix of urban and highway conditions with some spirited uphill driving thrown in.
Maintenance of the Golf is recommended at 1-year / 15,000km intervals. Estimated servicing cost at each visit to the VW dealership ranges from RM500 to just over RM1,200. Assuming you get a trouble-free unit, net servicing costs of a Golf over a 5-year / 75,000km period would add up to just under RM4,000 – if all goes well.
Conclusion
Being plagued by endless reliability problems over the last couple of years, Volkswagen’s brand image is not at the high it once enjoyed. It takes a brave person to sign cheques addressed to a VW dealership these days, and that’s understandable. Nobody enjoys paying handsome amounts of money for a car to see it spend most of its time in a workshop.
There is still appeal in the brand, however, and the most recent round of promotions was successful in stimulating healthy sales. Volkswagen for their part, despite being battered and bruised by recent developments, have not been sitting still in the midst of this unfolding drama. Engineering changes behind the scenes have been slowly but steadily eradicating the various quality issues that have been the brand’s recent undoing. From our anonymous sources in the company’s aftersales team, instances of complaints on either quality or reliability as far as the Golf 7 is concerned have been significantly reduced.
The Golf 7 is an excellent car, be in no doubt about that. If the prospect of owning one fills you with trepidation, that’s understandable, but if you have the courage of taking a punt, you stand to be rewarded by a consummate all-rounder that transcends class and has talents so widely-spread that it can feel at home in almost any setting.


Track To Showroom - Your Car's Unsung Motorsport Tech

More often than not, nothing gets discovered until something is pushed to the limit. The heat of competition is the most rigorous furnace humanity has at its disposal, and in the automotive realm, motor racing is the white-hot crucible of innovation.

Both success and failure remain a constant at the expense of a mixture of ingenuity, luck, and desperation. And when that rare breakthrough does occur, an entire motorsport industry scrambles to adopt it.

Inevitably, with so much being demanded of passenger cars with each passing year, automakers also rush to engineer as much racing-derived technology as possible to improve upon safety, efficiency, and performance.

Having that certain new advantage also attracts discerning buyers and can be a marketing boon to whichever new model can tout it first, and so the pattern has been set for motorsport to chase the cutting edge and for the wider automotive industry to chase its mass market adoption.

Here are a few features your car may have that was first forged in motorsport. Some you may expect and some you may have taken for granted. Regardless, let's come away from this with a newfound appreciation for the amazing engineering our cars are built on.

Turbocharging

Nearly everything that we’ve discovered so far that makes cars go faster was first done in racing, but not turbocharging. Patented in 1905 for use in radial engines, turbochargers got their wings (literally) in aviation with turbo-equipped prop planes of the early 20th century, which were found to have greatly increased performance without compromised flight range.

From there, huge turbochargers were engineered and fitted to equally massive marine and locomotive engines and lead to huge leaps in power. It was only until the 1930s that racing cars started showing up with them, and after an early period of exploding engines, the technology blossomed onto the consumer marketplace.

Through the 1980s,
everything
 was being labelled as ‘Turbo’ to sound cooler; from children’s toys to appliances to TV shows. Fast forward to the present day, the majority of new cars are turbocharged to allow for motors of reduced displacement but with equal or increased output and fuel economy over larger ones. Conversely, the naturally aspirated engines have become a dwindling species.

Push Start Button

Starting up a car is a basic enough process, which in days past was done with the simple twist of a key. That won’t cut it in 2020 - too antiquated for our tastes. So instead, we use buttons, typically as part of a larger electronic ‘keyless’ entry and start system.

While it’s debatable if tapping a start button is appreciably better as an experience than using a key, racing teams could gain a crucial edge by getting their engine spinning a few milliseconds quicker than their competitors.

Individual trigger switches for electrical and fuel supply also gave drivers more granular control as well as a manual override should something unexpected happen. When activated in sequence, the big (usually red) start button would be pressed for a successful start up, and soon that act was embedded in the minds of the enthusiasts who sought to emulate, creating a demand for manufacturers to fill.

Dual-Clutch Transmissions

These days, these types of transmissions (or gearboxes) go by many monikers or acronyms that mask a much longer name: Powershift, SSG, TCT, EDC, DCT, DSG, or PDK. That last one stands for Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe, which is fitted to many models from the German automaker from the 911 to the Macan as their default automatic option.

Porsche is credited with the development and refinement of the modern dual-clutch transmission, an evolution that took many years of R&D and testing but resulted in finished units being deployed in such legendary Le Mans race cars as the 956 and 962 in the 1980s, contributing to their on-track dominance thanks to lightning-fast gear shifts.

Of course, since then the technology has trickled down to passenger cars and is now far more widespread, even found in the new 2020 Proton X70.

Disc Brakes

In racing, equally important as going fast is to rein in all that speed. Let’s face it, without effective braking, you’re just a crash waiting to happen. Not that long after people started competing with cars, they figured that drum brakes just weren’t good enough, but it wasn’t until the early 1950s that disc brakes began to appear on the tracks of endurance racing and Formula 1.

The technology mushroomed across all categories of racing as the advantages in lap times and safety were enormous, and by the mid-50s the first mass-produced passenger car was offered with the far superior braking tech in the form of the futuristic (for its time) Citroen DS. Following that, the system was miniaturised for use on motorcycles too.

More than 50 years later, it remains the most prolific and effective braking system in vehicles. Of course, the disc brakes used today are much more sophisticated, employing space age manufacturing and material science for optimal performance, longevity, and weight.

Tyres

Tyres, as a concept, are probably the most primitive among the core ingredients of any vehicle. Before that, we had the wagon wheel - stiff and usually made of wood. The idea of a replaceable rubber outer layer, dampened by a pressurised chamber of air, was a revolutionary step forward.

However, with modern tyres, perhaps in no other category is there a more continuous stream of improvement being made that stem from motorsport. With racing as the perfect catalyst, the high performance tyres of today are offering levels of wet and dry grip, wear life, and stopping capability that were unreachable even 15 years ago.

With such brutal demands placed on race cars, tyre manufacturers constantly working with teams and drivers to deliver any small advantage in acceleration, braking, and controllability, leading to an evolving mixture of tread compounds.

The all-electric Formula E Championship goes further still as official tyre sponsor Michelin has for years been using the series as a test bed for road tyre development. Because most Formula E races are held on closed city roads, the Michelin Pilot Sport EVs are essentially street tyres, designed to be used on both dry and wet surfaces as well as to maximise efficiency (to reduce drain on the batteries).

Then again, they must also perform in high-stress race conditions and need to deliver as much grip as possible. The direct benefit is that the hard-earned lessons gained from Formula E are directly translated to the company’s off-the-shelf road tyres such as the Pilot Sport 4/4S and Pilot Sport Cup.

Wrapping Things Up

It's incredible to think of all the blood, sweat, and heartbreak that went into the tech and engineering that your car is built on - doesn't matter if its old or new. So long as it's running, there's a deep history of motorsports-derived innovation that it can trace its roots to. And that's just plain awesome.


RM664,800 For The BMW M3 And RM684,800 For The BMW M4

And so it's here, the all-new oft-debated BMW M3 and M4 - online pre-booking is now open for RM5,000 each on BMW's Shop Online.

First things first, the all-new BMW M3 Competition comes in at an estimated RM664,800.00, add the Innovation package and it goes up to RM722,800.00

The all-new BMW M4 Competition Coupe on the other hand is estimated to retail at RM684,800.00 but RM740,800.00 if you tack on the Innovation package.

*All prices are OTR without insurance.

Harald Hoelzl, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia said, “The fascination with M, as seen with the recently introduced M vehicles is a testament to the passion that owners of the BMW brand have for thrilling sportiness. With the upcoming All-New
BMW M3 Competition
 and the All-New BMW M4 Competition Coupé, we aim to continue driving this passion with our fans of the BMW M portfolio here, emulating our motorsports capabilities from the track and combining it with our philosophy of uncompromised everyday practicality and comfort.”

As their press release clearly states BMW has driven an M offense in Malaysia in 2020. They've introduced six new
M models
 in 2020 despite the year it's been, they brought the
M Town experience
 to Malaysia and they organised the M Owner's
Malaysia Day Drive
 - the lead car on said day had the livery designed by Malaysia's very own Chan Wen Bin.

It's been refreshing and exciting to witness most of what BMW has brought to Malaysia in 2020, they've been brave in the face of this pandemic, that's for sure.

Pre-booking for the M3 and M4 is open now until 31st December 2020.

And maybe, just maybe this writer will learn to love that face...


Is Insuring Your Car With Flood Coverage Worth It?

More and more insurance companies are offering flood coverage, but is it worth it?

The weather is unpredictably crazy at the moment. We used to get heavy rain once a day and be done with a downpour, but it seems these days, we get rained on almost a few times each day.

It's not just a little drizzle either, the rain at the moment mimics one of a typhoon, with strong winds and torrential downpour - so really, it is best to have vehicle insurance that covers you from natural disasters.

But what does an additional natural disaster insurance policy cover? Is the additional premium worth it? How will they help if your car ever gets caught in one? Is it even possible to continue using a flood-damaged car? We explore this subject to find the answers.

Some of us are tied down to hire purchase loans that stretch out for many years, and if our cars ever get damaged by mother nature, the only option is to fix the car and continue using it. This is where that additional natural disaster cover comes in.

Many insurance companies now provide special perils on top of typical vehicle insurance. One of them is called the natural disaster cover. It's an add-on to your vehicle insurance policy that can help fix your car if it ever is involved in a natural disaster such as flooding, volcanic eruption or others. Some even cover you for that one in a million chance of a satellite crashing onto your vehicle, so yeah, peace of mind.

If you have this extra insurance cover, technically the policy will help you to fix your flood-damaged car. The additional premium is not that much, as an example, for a car priced around RM40k, AmAssurance (Ambank's vehicle insurance arm) will only charge an extra RM85 add-on for those with an existing full comprehensive policy.

But to what extent would insurance companies really fix your car? This is what we're interested in because so many things get damaged when your car gets flooded. We couldn't really get hold of AmAssurance to ask about this, but we did look at their policy sheet. It seems that the coverage will cover the repairs just like accident damage or total loss.

We also tried calling Allianz General for an explanation on how their special perils coverage work. According to their website, if you purchase their add on flood coverage peril which only cost 0.25 percent of the sum insured, then they too will repair your car like it was accident damage or total loss.

To get some perspective on this we also talked to insurance agent, Niranjan Visuvalingam. He has been in the industry for 14 years and was willing to share some insider knowledge. He explained that if you have the extra insurance peril, you're pretty much covered for most things. He also added that the cost of the peril is not too high, so why not add it on anyway. "The extra flood coverage is only 0.20 percent of the sum insured. It's such a small price to pay for peace of mind. If your vehicle is under 5 years old, the insurance company will replace everything with brand new parts. If over that age, the replacement parts will be selected in the most economical way. If the vehicle is beyond economical repair (BER), the insurance company will treat it as a total loss and initiate a payout, just like any total loss case", said Niranjan.

BER is calculated if the repair cost is more than 60-70 percent value of the vehicle. If under, it will just be claimed as accident repair damage.

To find out that insurance companies will repair flood ravaged cars just like accident damage is great because that means that they will fix whatever needs fixing. This really does mean it makes sense to take on the extra flood coverage because it's not that expensive and it will save you a lot of heartache, at 0.20 percent value of the car, it just makes sense to do so.


Lexus Malaysia launches special service campaign for ES models

As part of a global recall for a certain batch of Lexus ES and RX models, Lexus Malaysia is issuing a Special Service Campaign to rectify the potentially faulty component. The component in question is a brake actuator that is part of the VSC (Vehicle Stability Control), ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System), and TRC (Traction Control System).
Within the actuator is an O-ring that may have been damaged during the assembly process. As a result, the O-ring may potentially fail earlier than expected and may cause difficulty in controlling the aforementioned systems. This will in turn result in a loss of control and a potential accident.
For Malaysia, only the ES model is affected by this recall, as they only affect models assembled  between September 2015 and February 2016; Toyota Motor Corporation has confirmed that around 90 units were destined for Malaysia during this period, and so UMW Toyota Motors will notify owners of affected vehicles. All costs related to the campaign will be borne by Lexus Malaysia.


Toyota Gazoo Racing Takes Hilux To Dakar, Wins

If this isn't a testament to Toyota's commitment to motorsports, we don't know what is. There's no other company that is actively entering and competing in so many different race series around the world, except perhaps Red Bull - but they're not exactly a car manufacturer. The latest notch in Toyota Gazoo Racing's belt is the Dakar Rally, in which they took a class win with their Hilux.
Over 10 days and 4,800 kilometres of gruelling desert and mountains, their modified Hilux managed to push through to take that win. Now, this Hilux is a far cry from what we're used to seeing on our roads, what with a mid-mounted V8 engine and far more specialized equipment and systems to deal with these harsh environments. There were two Hiluxes fielded in the rally, with the team of Nasser Al Attiyah and Matthieu Baumel taking the top spot.
There was further success for Toyota in the event with the Team Land Cruiser Auto Body (TLC) winning the Dakar Production Division category for the sixth consecutive year and Hino Team Sugawara claiming an exceptional 10th win in a row in the Truck category (10-litre engine or smaller) with the Hino Ranger. While these vehicles are in varying levels of distance from their road-going versions, the engineering behind them is top notch and eventually transfers back into the cars you can buy in a showroom.
Because that's what motorsports is after all, isn't it? It's not merely the thrill of going fast or the pursuit of glory, but the accelerated development of vehicles by putting them through some of the most difficult conditions you can subject a vehicle to. The constant stress and the harsh terrain is no better gauntlet for an off-road vehicle to run, just as the 24 Hours of Nurburgring is the best litmus test for a performance car.
This was the 41st running of the Dakar Rally, and while it is no longer held between Paris and Dakar, it still remains an important motorsport event on the calendars of various professionals. It's not the same kind of challenge as, say, our Borneo Safari, but it requires the same level of skill when navigating and negotiating your way across South America, entirely off the beaten path.


MINI 60 Years Edition At Carlist.my Drive Auto Fair 2019

The
recently launched
 MINI 60 Years Edition, built to celebrate the 60 year anniversary of the brand, is currently making an appearance at the ongoing Carlist.my Drive Auto Fair 2019, which was officiated today.
Limited to only 60 units in Malaysia and based exclusively on the MINI Cooper S 3-door variant, the 60 Years Edition is offered in MINI’s New British Racing Green colour (Pepper White Roof) or Melting Silver (Jet Black roof and mirror caps).
The 60 Years Edition features several aesthetic updates such as unique Bonnet Stripes, Logo Projection system, and door sills, as well as a Walknappa leather steering wheel, Dark Maroon interior, and the exclusive “60 Years Spoke 2-tone” 17-inch light-alloy wheels wrapped with run-flat tyre.
Additionally, the 60 Years Chili equipment package adds LED headlights, LED fog lamps, white turn indicators, and LED rear lights in the Union Jack design. Note too, that the MINI 60 Years Edition carries the Excitement Package’s selectable ambient lighting and MINI Connected’s suite of functions.
Under the hood, the 60 Years Edition features the same 2.0-litre four-cylinder MINI TwinPower Turbo engine found in the Cooper S variant. The engine develops 192hp and a peak torque of 280Nm. The engine is mated to a 7-speed double-clutch transmission.
The retail price (on the road for personal registration, without insurance) of the MINI 60 Years Edition is RM 255,888. Purchases between now and 31st August 2019 are also entitled to the 60 Months MINI Service + Repair Inclusive programme. The offer provides owners with 60 months or 80,000km (whichever comes first) of Free Scheduled Service and 60 months of Warranty with Unlimited Mileage.
Don’t miss this chance to get up close and personal with this limited edition pocket rocket at the ongoing Carlist.my Drive Auto Fair 2019, from 16th - 18th August at Setia City Convention Centre, Shah Alam, Selangor.
For more info about the exhibition and test drive booking, click
here
.


Falling Ringgit: Three More Brands Expected To Raise Prices Soon

Following the recent move by Hyundai Malaysia in raising prices for three of its models, reports have emerged claiming that Toyota, Honda and Mitsubishi are expected to follow suit.
A news report published by The Edge claims that Toyota, Honda and Mitsubishi are expected to raise the prices of their cars anytime now, probably as early as October.
This comes after the dismal performance of the Ringgit against other key currencies like the US Dollar, Euro, and Japanese Yen. The Ringgit has lost nearly 18 percent of its value in this year alone, reaching a 17-year low.
The Ringgit is currently trading at RM 4.41 to 1 US Dollar.
Locally-assembled cars are not immuned to the effects of foreign exchange as many key components like engines, transmissions, electronic control modules, airbags, and even pressed steel parts, have to be imported from other countries.
Officially, none of the companies mentioned have confirmed or denied the speculation. The official reply given by most companies is that they will try to maintain their prices as much as possible, but if the Ringgit doesn’t improve, an increase in prices is inevitable.
Sources have indicated that prices are likely to remain stable until the end of this year, but prices will almost certainly go up by 2016.
Last week,
Hyundai Malaysia raised prices
 for the locally-assembled Santa Fe and Elantra, as well as the imported Veloster.
The increase ranges from RM2,000 plus for the Elantra to an eye-popping RM10,000 plus for the Santa Fe.
Related links:
BMW Group Malaysia: Price Hike Possible If Ringgit Continues To Weaken
Ringgit Hits RM4.33 To The Dollar, Lowest In 17 Years - Hike In Car Prices Imminent?
Perodua Denies Any Move To Raise Prices Due To Falling Ringgit Value
Will Car Prices Increase Following The Sharp Devaluation Of Our Ringgit?


Don't Know What Present To Get Your Dad This Father's Day? Perhaps These Sub RM200k Toys Will Do

Plenty of cash but no idea what to buy your dad this Father's Day? No worries, we have some of the best toys for men listed down below.

Father's Day is the one day where you should put everything aside and pay tribute to the number one guy in your life, your father. No matter how prepared you may be every year, it always seems to creep up on you, and guess what? Father's Day is just around the corner once again.

If you don't want to miss out on getting your dad a special gift, keep this in mind, Father's Day is always celebrated on the third Sunday in June. To help with the problem of what to give your dad, we thought we would list down five sub RM200k toys for your Papa which will really show how much you appreciate and love him.

1. Lotus Evora Coupe - RM196,800

The
Lotus Evora Coupe
 is more of a toy than a car. Okay, it can be used as a daily driver if you're crazy enough to do so, but the car is best left played with it in your spare time because it feels medieval compared to other mid-engined sports cars like the
Porsche Cayman
. Saying that however, this 'medievel-ness' is precisely why people love it in the first place because it really does reward drivers or Dads who want that raw driving feeling.

With an invigorating high-rpm 3.5-litre engine that likes to scream, the car will surely give your Dad that immersive sports car feeling, especially when he unleashes the car's full 400bhp. The things is though, the car is not all about power and speed because it was built to give you loads of fun times behind the wheel. This is something that other manufacturers can learn from the
Lotus
 Evora. Just be sure your Dad doesn't have a bad back, cause it is a struggle to get in and out of this rare and rewarding sports car.

2. Grand Seiko Spring Drive 20th & Nissan GT-R 50th Anniversary Limited Edition - RM 110k

If your Dad owns or loves a
Nissan's GT-R
, then a complimentary watch to go with his mechanical love would make him very happy indeed. The Grand Seiko Sports Collection pays homage to the Nissan GT-R, which celebrated its
50th anniversary
 in June 2019. With its famed Spring Drive chronograph caliber and a ceramic case (yes, a ceramic case, we're not mistaken here) the Grand Seiko is considered to be the pinnacle of Japanese horology.

The watch design takes inspiration from the GT-R's iconic blue color, known to car enthusiasts as "Bayside blue", which is reflected in the blue of the ceramic outer case. This ceramic and the inner case made from light high-intensity titanium protects the watch from scratches while fitting comfortably on the wrist and delivers 10 bar water resistance. This scratch proof feature will come in handy when he has to take care of his grandchildren.

3. Vespa Emporio Armani Edition - from RM68k

Every Dad needs a motorbike to compliment his car, but to ensure your Mom doesn't give you an earful for buying him a two-wheeler, the bike better be a conservative one, which he can probably use to cruise around the neighbourhood or do some short little convenience store runs. This one might be the hardest to get out of all the items on this list, but if you can afford one and find one, you better grab it.

In 2016, NAZA actually brought in a few units of this truly special Vespa, so there are some of them lurking around the country. The Vespa 946 Emporio Armani was developed as a cooperation project between Giorgio Armani and the Piaggio Group to celebrate two of the world's most familiar Italian symbols. The unique new version of the Vespa 946 is signed by Giorgio Armani and presented in an exclusive grey colur. Compared to the normal 946, the special Armani Edition's metallic parts were treated in order to convey a matt effect in line with the body finishings and the words' Emporio Armani' appear on the side, while the iconic eagle logo of the brand sits above the headlight.

Just like the other 946, it had aluminium cylinder blocks, brown leather finishes, luxury accessories, electronic riding controls (which also interface with the latest Internet devices) complementing the innovative four-stroke electronic injection engine. Seems a bit expensive for a 946? Well, prices in fashion never made any sense anyway!

4. Land Rover Defender with Project Kahn Wide Track Body Kit - RM188k

If your Dad is not a fan of go-fast cars, perhaps a go-anywhere vehicle is more up his alley. Prices of the iconic
Land Rover Defender
 (the older shape, not the new one) is a bit absurd these days, but that's what you have to pay to get yourself a well-kept icon. While prices of well-sorted Defenders start from RM70k, a special custom made one with Project Kahn body kit will cost the same as a used
Porsche 911 Carrera
.

It'll never be as comfortable as a
G-Wagon
 or a
Jeep Wrangler
, but it'll definitely get more looks than any of the cars mentioned above. Also, we're pretty sure it's a good investment, as the prices of Defenders seem to keep going up and up, especially if it's as rare as the Project Kahn Defender.

5. TREK Emonda SLR 9 - RM55k

The recent
cycling
 craze has got many Dads out of the house. If you're planning to get your Dad a bike that might help him climb our hilly terrain faster this Father's Day, then there's no better option than the TREK Emonda SLR 9. Coming in at just 6.5kg, the SLR9 is TREK's ultralight, aerodynamic carbon road bike that's designed and built to be one of the fastest climbing bikes in the world.

Thanks to its aero tubes wrought from TREKs lightest carbon fibre layup and Shimano's highest-end electronic drivetrain (that's right, you read it right, electronic drivetrain, changing gears like
PlayStation
 games), the bike might just give him the very edge he needs to be faster up the hills against other cyclists or his friends. Word of warning though, if your dad weighs more than 125kg, then this bike is not for him, as it has a weight limit of exactly 125kg. What do you expect from a bike that has a 700g carbon fibre frame and carbon fibre wheels?


Facelifted 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Makes Korean Debut

Hyundai
 has facelifted its
Santa Fe
 crossover after a mere three years since the current generation was revealed. However, it was revealed that the automaker is – at least for now – limiting this refresh for the South Korean market.
The revision spans both the exterior and interior, with updated bits made to reflect a more modern yet sporty look and feel. On the outside, the grille’s three-bar design is made a little fancier with a forked look on each bar, the rear bumper and taillights are also altered, there are larger air intakes and its LED daytime running lights are placed above the fog lamps while the headlamp itself is has a different shape as well.
Stepping inside, owners will find themselves facing a newly redesigned instrument cluster, replete with new fonts and iconography. They will also be able to select new optional extras such as adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and a camera-assisted parking assist system.


Royal Langkawi Classic Car Show Returns For Second Year; 10 – 12 August 2018

It's classic cars galore as the Royal Langkawi Classic Car Show returns for the second time in 2018.
The Island of Langkawi will once again play host to a fleet of vintage and classic cars, from the 10th to 12th of August 2018 at the Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre (MIEC), better known as Dewan LIMA.
Organised by MY Classic Cars in collaboration with Langkawi Development Authority (LADA), this year’s show will see over 50 vintage and classic cars on display.
Owners of these rare, preserved vehicles will also be competing in a ‘show and shine’ that awards winning cars based on five age-dependent categories: Vintage (before 1945), Classic 1 (1946-1960), Classic 2 (1961 – 1975), Modern Classic (1976 – 1990) and Japanese Classics (up to 1990), which is a new addition for this year.
Two other special awards will also be up for grabs, namely the Langkawi Cup and the coveted Sultan’s Choice Award. The Royal Langkawi Classic Car Show is the only classic car show in Malaysia to receive a royal accolade.
Visitors to the car show can expect to see some rare makes and models such as the Rolls Royce 25/27, which was manufactured in 1925.
Other highlights include a display of Porsches from three different eras – Porsche 356, Porsche 964 and the 944 S2 Convertible. A collection of MINIs will also be on display, namely the MINI Traveller, Pick-Up, Mk 3 and a unique MINI Moke, dressed up in a truly Malaysian style.
The showcase will also include a Volkswagen Kombi that made the journey from Malaysia to Germany covering a total of 26,000km, along with a Ford Capri which completed an 11,000km journey from Malaysia to Sri Lanka.
The Royal Langkawi Classic Car Show is open to the general public, admission is free.


Volkswagen Is Official Car Sponsor for Le Tour De Langkawi 2018

Volkswagen has returned as the official vehicle partner of the 2018 Le Tour de Langkawi (LTDL) international cycling event, having previously been involved with the LTDL in 2016.
Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) will be supplying a total of 180 units of Volkswagen cars from its current model line-up, comprising of the
Polo
, Vento Highline,
Passat Trendline
, Passat Highline and the
Tiguan
 Highline.
The vehicles will be used throughout the race by riders, safety marshals, and officials.
VPCM will also be presenting the White Jersey to the competition’s ‘Asian Champion’.
Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM adds, “We are delighted to be able to support the race with our range of Volkswagen models, and we look forward to the amazing display of endurance, agility, and strengths from the world-class riders taking part. On behalf of Volkswagen, we wish the participants all the very best”.
Held since 1996, Le Tour de Langkawi is a multiple stage bicycle race that attracts the world’s top riders, and is remarked as one of the highlights of the global competitive cycling calendar. The Le Tour De Langkawi 2018 happens from the 18th to 25th March 2018.


5-Year Old Boy Killed In Accident Near Seremban

An accident which involved a few cars and a bus caused the death of a five year old boy. The accident occured on Monday evening near the Seremban rest stop.
The boy, identified as Muhammad Wafiq Fitri Walilah was killed on the spot. The rest of his family, including his father, mother and younger sister suffered serious injuries. His younger sister was sitting on her mother's lap. The kids were not secured with child seats.
"Initial investigations revealed that the accident occurred when a bus that was heading to Nilai from Seremban skidded and hit the rear of a Honda MPV which was moving slowly because of heavy traffic. A Toyota MPV which was earlier in front of the bus diverted into the left lane but was hit in the rear by a car on the left lane,"Negeri Sembilan traffic staff officer ASP Mohd Hafidzal Zainal Abidin.
We've
reported before
 that child seats are a must for kids when travelling in cars. No matter how strong a parent think they are, the sudden deceleration of a vehicle can hurl a child towards the windscreen with forces of up to 4G.
Many modern cars are fitted with ISOFIX anchor points, which is designed for child seats in mind. We teamed up with Child Passenger Safety (CPS) Malaysia to show readers the correct way to install child seats. For more info on how to set up your child seat,
read here
.


2023 Honda WR-V launched in Malaysia - Four variants from RM89,900

Honda Malaysia has officially launched the all-new
2023 Honda WR-V
 small SUV here in the country.

It has been a month since the Honda WR-V was opened for bookings and so far, Honda Malaysia has received over 2,500 bookings for its latest small SUV - 45% of them being the range-topping RS variant.

Speaking of variants, the Honda WR-V is available in four different models - S, E, V, and RS. If you're wondering about pricing, the official selling prices are listed below (OTR excluding insurance):

Honda WR-V S variant - RM89,900

Honda WR-V E variant - RM95,900

Honda WR-V V variant - RM99,900

Honda WR-V RS variant - RM107,900

Despite the price differences, all variants are fitted with the same 1.5-litre DOHC i-VTEC engine that produces 121PS and 145Nm of torque. As mentioned in the previous coverages, it's the same unit that can be found in the City and base HR-V models.

Power is sent down to the front wheels via a CVT gearbox and with normal everyday drives, fuel consumption can go as far as 16.7km/l. We had a few days with the Thai RS-spec WR-V and to know more,
CLICK HERE
.

The differences between all four variants of the all-new Honda WR-V can be seen below starting with the base S variant:

Halogen headlights

Front position light

Segment meter

Micro pole antenna

16-inch alloy wheels (silver)

Trunk spoiler

Fabric seats

Manual air-conditioning

7-inch display audio

2 speakers

Smart Entry with Push Start

4 airbags

2 USB ports

Honda LaneWatch

Moving to the Honda WR-V E spec, it gets everything listed above plus:

Shark fin antenna

4.2-inch TFT combination meter display

Multi-angle reverse camera

Rear seat reminder

Additional 2 speakers

Remote engine starter

Walkaway auto lock

Auto Head Light

Honda SENSING

Going up one step to the Honda WR-V V variant, this model gets:

LED headlights

LED DRLs

Front LED fog lights

Auto airconditioning

Leather seats + interior with blue stitching

Rear centre armrest

Ending with the Honda WR-V RS variant, you'll get:

RS Package (interior & exterior)

17-inch dual-tone alloy wheel

Front sequential turn signals

Paddle shifters

Honda CONNECT

2 side curtain airbags

2 tweeter speakers


The Eighth Generation Volkswagen Golf Is Here, And It's More Intelligent Than Ever

As much as we talk about icons in the car world, it is the mass-market models that are the most important - and one model that the world has been waiting patiently for is the eighth generation Volkswagen Golf. Yes, the model we know as the Golf 7.5 was developed as an interim step due to various unfortunate circumstances for Volkswagen, but they've collected themselves and come back with a truly exciting model.

That Volkswagen chose to launch this car in Wolfsburg amid the hubbub of the Tokyo Motor Show last weekend was a strong indication of their faith in the birthplace of the Golf namesake, as well as their gratitude for Wolfsburg's continued support in producing the critically acclaimed hatchback. Expected to go on sale by the end of 2019, the eighth generation Golf will come with mild-hybrid powertrains from the get-go, firing an opening salvo with the eTSI in 110 PS, 130 PS, and 150 PS states of tune.

The eTSI powertrains operate with a 48V system that comprises of a belt starter-generator, a 48V lithium-ion battery, and the TSI engines that we already know and love. In addition to this, PHEV models will be made available with 204 PS, or a staggering 245 PS in GTE trim. Diesel and natural gas powertrains will also be available, but aren't likely to appear here.

Of course, the powertrain isn't the highlight for the all-new model, as is the case for most manufacturers. The latest and greatest wave of consumers isn't as concerned about performance as they are about connectivity and integration, as well as autonomous technology, and the eight generation Golf delivers in spades.

Thanks to an Online Connectivity Unit, the Golf stays consistently connected with the outside world with a variety of online functions and services. It also allows for connecting to Car2X, which delivers information from infrastructure and other vehicles as far as 800 metres away in order to notify the driver of any potential hazards.

And perhaps the most interesting note of all is that this all-new model is capable of assisted driving at speeds of up to 210 km/h, which means we aren't far away from a fully autonomous Golf. In this day and age you can expect manufacturers to roll out multiple minor updates over the course of a car's lifespan, as opposed to the 3-to-5-year bump, which could also mean firmware upgrades over the air improve the functionality of your car over the course of ownership.

To find the best deals on Volkswagen cars, click
here
.


2016 New Honda Accord Launched In Malaysia – From RM144,800

Following a brief preview earlier in August, Honda Malaysia has today launched the new Honda Accord. The pictures don’t quite do it justice because the new Accord is really quite a looker when viewed in sheet metal.
Restyled to look more premium Acura-like, the new Accord’s styling updates have succeeded in ensuring that it keeps pace with its younger sibling the all-new Civic’s space-age looks.
Mechanically, the new Accord is similar to the outgoing model, and continues to retain its three-variant line-up. Engine options are still either a 2.0-litre SOHC i-VTEC or a 2.4-litre DOHC Earth Dreams Technology i-VTEC. Both are paired to a 5-speed torque converter automatic transmission.
Crucially, safety features have been significantly improved with only minimal increase in prices, while the flagship 2.4 VTi-L model is now about RM5,000 cheaper than before.
Prices for all three variants are as follows:
Accord 2.0 VTi: RM144,800
Accord 2.0 VTi-L: RM153,800
Accord 2.4 VTi-L: RM172,800
Prices quoted are on-the-road with insurance, for Peninsular Malaysia.
What’s New
The new front-end design, flanked by a pair of new headlamps (full LEDs for 2.4 VTi-L), centred on a bolder chrome grille have slashed several years off the familiar current generation Accord, which has been with us since 2013. The new bumper also features LED front fog lamps.
The 2.0-litre models also feature new 17-inch wheels, while the the 2.4-litre model gets new two-tone 18-inch wheels.
Curiously, Honda has decided to change the bonnet of the new Accord – not a common item to be changed mid-lifecycle as it can be a rather costly exercise. The new almost clamshell-like bonnet immediately transforms the familiar Accord’s front-end to give it a far more road presence.
Behind, the tail lamps feature a rather BMW-like pair of LED tail lamps, and a pair of horizontal chrome strips.
The new Obsidian Blue Pearl colour also lends a new, more youthful vibe to the otherwise corporate looking Accord. It’s still a very corporate looking car, but it’s now more Facebook Inc. and less Citigroup Inc.
Inside, the dashboard also features new wood grain print trimming, while the 2.0 VTi-L and 2.4 VTi-L models gets new gloss black metallic print inserts on the centre console, armrest for the front doors, rear centre armrest and surrounds for the rear air-conditioning vents.
There’s also a new instrument panel (improved type face, European market model shown) while the infotainment system is now upgraded to support Android Auto and Apple Car Play. What this means is that certain approved mobile applications like Google Maps can now be shown on the Accord’s 7-inch infotainment display screen. GPS navigation system has been deleted from all variants, but with Android Auto/Apple Car Play, the slow to input GPS won’t be missed.
Crucially, key active and passive safety features like six airbags, electronic stability control (VSA), ISOFIX, Hill Start Assist, ABS and EBD are now offered as standard across the Accord range.
Below is the summary of differences in specifications/features for all three variants of the Accord:
The new Accord is now available with 3 new colours, with White Orchid Pearl (RM400 extra), Lunar Silver Metallic and Obsidian Blue Pearl replacing the previous model’s Champagne Frost Pearl, Alabaster Silver Metallic and Taffeta White.


Ford’s Major EV Push – Hybrid Mustang, F-150 and Full-Electric SUV by 2020

Ford Motor Company has detailed seven of the thirteen new global electrified vehicles it plans to introduce in the next five years, including hybrid versions of the F-150 pickup and Mustang in the U.S., a plug-in hybrid Transit Custom van in Europe and a fully electric SUV as part of a major push into the global EV market.
The moves are part of a larger USD4.5billion investment toward electrified vehicles by 2020 – which aims to inject greater efficiency and eco-credentials across Ford’s global vehicle line-up.
Ford President and CEO, Mark Fields added, “As more and more consumers around the world become interested in electrified vehicles, Ford is committed to being a leader in providing consumers with a broad range of electrified vehicles, services and solutions that make people’s lives better.”
Ford plans to leverage their EV plan on key areas of strength – electrifying their popular, high-volume commercials and passenger cars and trucks, and performance vehicles.
The confirmed seven of thirteen global electrified vehicles set to come in the next five years:
A high-volume autonomous vehicle designed for commercial ride-hailing or ride sharing, starting in North America. The hybrid vehicle will debut in 2021 and will be built at Ford’s Flat Rock plant.
A hybrid version of the iconic
Mustang
 that promises V8 power and even more low-end torque, by 2020, no confirmation on the accompanying internal-combustion engine. To be built at Flat Rock
A hybrid version of the best-selling F-150 pickup available by 2020 and sold in North America and the Middle East. The F-150 Hybrid will offer powerful towing and payload capacity and operate as a mobile generator.
A
Ford Transit
 Custom plug-in hybrid commercial van available in 2019 in Europe.
Two new ‘pursuit-rated’ hybrid police vehicles. Built the outfitted with police gear in two different facilities in Chicago.
Most interestingly, an all-new fully electric small SUV, coming by 2020, engineered to deliver an estimated range of at least 300 miles, to be built at the Flat Rock plant and sold in North America, Europe and Asia.
Ford has also announced that its global utility vehicle line-up will be the company’s first hybrids powered by EcoBoost power plants rather than naturally aspirated engines.
In tandem with the EV product offensive, Ford also plans to grow its portfolio of global EV services and solutions, which includes technology such as wireless charging infrastructure, EV fleet management, route planning and telematics solutions.
To support the new era of vehicles, Ford is adding 700 direct new jobs and investing USD700 million during the next four years, creating the new Manufacturing Innovation Center at its Flat Rock Assembly Plant. This incremental investment in Flat Rock Assembly Plant comes from USD1.6 billion the company previously had planned to invest in a new plant in Mexico.


Singapore also got 'rempit' doing the 'superman'?

A group of motorcycle riders or '
rempit'
 doing the 'superman' move is nothing new here in Malaysia, but Singaporeans? That is news to us.

A recent post by the
Straits Times
 showcased these riders that call themselves 'Kapcai Singa' riding at high speeds on Malaysian highways while performing the daredevil move, and they've been posting about their 'adventures' online (until it went viral & they've blocked everything from the public view).

13 videos posted since 2019

*Image credit: The Straits Times

The Strait Times also reported that the Kapcai Singa group has been actively posting their stunts on Malaysian roads since 2019 on YouTube and other social media platforms. Riding at speeds of up to 180km/h, these high-risk stunts were performed and published online unapologetically by the so-called 'Kapcai Singa' riders.

It has been an ongoing effort by the Malaysian authorities to stomp these reckless riding behaviours for the longest time, but none have shown any sign of real success. Relentless crackdowns and ops were conducted in the past, but they've only managed to slow down the activities, even after many deadly incidents like the last year's
Penang illegal race
 that left five dead and two seriously injured.

As for the Kapcai Singa riders, the Malaysian authorities have been made aware of their activities on our side of the border. If caught and convicted, these daredevil riders can be fined up to RM15,000 or five years' jail time under the Road Transport Act 1987 Section 42.


Perodua Alza Facelifted Again – New Features, 4 Variants, From RM51,490

Perodua has introduced the 2018 version of the Alza seven-seater MPV featuring a few cosmetic additions as well as new equipment.
The MPV will be offered in four variants:
Perodua Alza Standard (MT) - RM51,490
Perodua Alza Standard (AT) -  RM54,290
Perodua Alza SE (AT) -            RM56,890
Perodua Alza Advance (AT) -   RM62,690
*All prices are on-the-road (OTR) without insurance for Peninsular Malaysia
New to all Alza variants are the redesigned instrument panel graphics, redesigned centre cluster, and a two-motion remote control key (press once to unlock driver’s door, double-press to unlock all doors).
Air-cond flow to the third row is now better thanks to new fixed fins between the front centre air vents, an improved evaporator and enhanced heat-exchange piping.
Also standard across the board are front fog lamps, a rear spoiler, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, solar and security window film, audio system with USB and Bluetooth connectivity, reverse sensors and 15-inch alloys that are finished in silver.
SE and Advance variants get all of the above plus titanium-finished alloys, a new front bumper with a larger lower intake, a new twin-bar front grille, new side skirts, and a new rear bumper and tailgate garnish. Also exclusive for the SE and Advance variants are newly designed leather seats and front corner sensors.
Those who opt for the Alza Advance on the other hand get a roof-mounted monitor and an Android-based touch-screen multimedia system with Smart Link, Bluetooth, navigation, and reverse camera functions. These two features are not available in any other variant.
All Alzas are powered by the 1.5-litre 3SZ-VE DVVT engine paired to a five-speed manual transmission on the Standard MT, and a four-speed automatic transmission the other variants.
On the safety front, dual front airbags, ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist and ISOFIX child seat points in the middle row are standard across the Alza line-up, netting all variants a four-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating.
Offered with a 5-year/150,000 km warranty (whichever comes first), the new Alza, which is available in 5 colour choices - Granite Grey (new, exclusive to SE and Advance variants), Ivory White, Glittering Silver, Mystical Purple and Electric Blue, will be available at all Perodua showrooms nationwide from 6 September onwards.


BMW Celebrates 40 Years At Sebring With This Gorgeous Z4 GTLM

At the Amelia Islands Classic Car Auction and Concourse,
BMW
 North America took the sheets off their newest
Z4
 GTLM racer. What makes this one in particular that bit more special is that its livery harkens back to the classic IMSA 3.0 CSL from the mid-1970s.
Its BMW’s tribute edition to commemorate the 40
th
 anniversary of the 3.0 CSL’s iconic overall victory at the 12 Hours of Sebring in 1975, who’s drivers, Brian Redman and Allan Moffat, we’re up against some strong competition from the likes of Porsches and Corvettes. Redman’s herculean seven hour stint behind the wheel is what most people believe to be what clinched the win.
Two Z4 GTLMs under BMW RLL will compete in this year’s Sebring endurance race on March 21
st
, where car number 25 will don the iconic livery worn in 1975 by car number, you guessed it, 25.


Watch This Touching Father’s Day Ad From Toyota

Father’s Day is coming this 21
st
 June.
In honour of dotting fathers around the world, the team at Toyota Motor’s Japan marketing office has recently released this rather touching video that depicts a father-daughter relationship, first from the perspective of the father, followed by the daughter.
The video opened with a proud father bringing him his newborn baby daughter in his Celica, and how their relationship progressed from a young girl who loved hanging around her father, to a rebellious teenager who didn’t want to have anything to do with her father, to her becoming a beautiful lady who finally understood her father’s love.
There were also cameo appearances of a Toyota Mark II and Estima Lucida, before ending with a Corolla Fielder demonstrating its Active Safety Sense driver’s assistance feature.


Holden Commodore Clips Truck And Crashes

Weaving in and out of traffic generally won't end well, as demonstrated by the driver of this Holden Commodore.
According to the video description on YouTube, eye witness said that the driver was weaving in between traffic before he clipped the front end of a truck and crashed spectarcularly into the road barrier.
Damage sustained by the Commodore is nothing short of major, likely to end up as an insurance write-off, judging from video footage. Thankfully, the out of control Holden did not hit any other vehicles or pedestrians.

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The driver of the truck said,
"
Witnesses said he was weaving in and out of traffic for a while.. he was undertaking everyone and then when he came to overtake me, he got sideways and smashed into my front steerer and bullbar. Roe Highway going over Orrong Rd.
"
Seeing that there was no mention of the driver's condition, it is safe to assume that he survived, and hopefully he has learnt his lesson.


2018 Mazda 6 Wagon All Set To Make World Debut In Geneva Next Month

Mazda has announced that its flagship passenger car model, the Mazda 6 Wagon will be making its world premiere at the upcoming 2018 Geneva Motor Show next month.
Entering its third incarnation since the model was fully redesigned in 2012, the new Mazda 6 Wagon is almost identical with its
sedan sibling
 which made its global debut last November in Los Angeles.
On the exterior, key features include a new grille that looks similar to the one on the new CX-5, redesigned headlights, new LED DRLs, new chrome strips on the bumper, as well as new wheel design.
Inside, things have moved up a notch with a dashboard that has been redesigned completely, new UltraSuede Nu upholstery, as well as Japanese Sen wooden trim.
In terms of features, we are expecting the new Mazda 6 Wagon to come with updated driver assistance technology and a new 360-degree camera similar to the 6 Sedan.
The other big news is the addition of the SkyActiv-G 2.5T turbo engine from the CX-9 as an option for the Wagon. Capable of producing 250 hp and 420 Nm of maximum torque, the engine will be paired to a six-speed automatic gearbox.
While the Mazda 6 Wagon will be making its global debut, the 6 Sedan, Mazda’s Kai Concept, and Vision Coupe Concept will be making their European debut in Geneva this year.


LA 2017: All-New Infiniti QX50 – 2.0 VC-Turbo, 268hp, All-New Platform

Ahead of its upcoming debut at the Los Angeles International Motor Show, the
all-new Infiniti QX50
 shows itself with the official release of one frontal image together with its full specifications.
Whilst major news surrounding this new vehicle is the introduction of Infiniti’s new
variable compression (VC-Turbo) 2.0-litre petrol engine
, it is just as noteworthy that the all-new QX50 debuts an entirely new platform.
External measurements of 4,693 mm length and 1,903 mm width, along with a wheelbase of 2,800 mm gives the QX50 similar proportions to mid-sized luxury crossovers such as the
BMW X3
 and
Mercedes-Benz GLC
. But, unlike its class rivals, the all-new QX50 embraces a transverse engine layout with a choice between front- or all-wheel drive configurations.
It is, in fact, a massive departure from even the outgoing QX50, previously called the Infiniti EX, which is based on Nissan’s FM platform designed for a longitudinal engine layout for rear- or all-wheel drive configurations.
Infiniti claims that the all-new QX50 is the first automobile ever to utilize SHF (super high formability) 980 MPa high-tensile steel, which can be moulded into unprecedented shapes and make the car over 23% stiffer than its predecessor.
As reported earlier, the all-new QX50’s 2.0-litre VC-Turbo is the world’s first production-ready variable compression engine. It features a multi-link system that continuously varies the piston’s top dead centre reach, consequently altering the compression ratio in the process.
Depending on driving conditions, the engine self-adjusts anywhere between a minimum compression of 8:1 for added performance or a maximum of 14:1 for better efficiency. Engine capacity varies between 1,997cc in 8:1 compression ratio and 1,970cc in 14:1 compression ratio – will be interesting to see how JPJ plans to calculate the road tax on this one.
Outputs of the engine are rated at 268 hp and 380 Nm, and Infiniti claims a 35% improvement in fuel efficiency over the previous-generation 3.7-litre V6 model; all-wheel drive models see only a 30% improvement.
Quoted fuel consumption is 8.7 litres/100km for the FWD model and 9.0 litres/100km for the AWD model tested as per US protocol, making direct comparison with rivals typically quoted on NEDC numbers not quite possible at this moment. Standard transmission is a CVT, no other engine/transmission combo is mentioned.
In keeping with the times, the all-new QX50 will incorporate Nissan’s ProPilot driving assist technologies helping the driver to control acceleration, braking, and steering on highways only. Apparently, Infiniti’s customers have expressed their desire to remain integral to the driving experience and the company’s approach is thus a step removed from allowing its car to go fully autonomous.


Drag racing circuits: govt should proceed with construction, says Ismail Sabri

Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob reckons the government should not cancel plans for state-wide drag racing circuits as the lack of platforms and motorsport facilities is one of the main reasons behind the rise in illegal racing and street gang activities.

A couple of days ago, the government announced that it has scrapped plans to continue with the previous government's proposal to
build special drag racing circuits in each state
.

One of the reasons for this u-turn in plans is due to the high cost it would incur, including extremely high maintenance costs aside from being supervised by trained experts.

Well, former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob who's administration was responsible for this idea, has now spoken out and believes that they should consider proceeding with the construction of the drag racing circuits.

According to The Vibes, the previous administration had already allocated RM20 million for the project, and that the building of the circuits would encourage petrolhead youths to take motorsports seriously through proper channels.

"The ministry is advised to visit the drag racing circuits that have been completed in Terengganu and Johor to understand their purpose, the aspirations and interest of the young people in motorsports," said Sabri as reported by The Vibes.

Sabri also said that the construction of the circuit in Johor would not cost much as it only needed security fencing. The Terengganu circuit however would cost a bit more as it needs grandstand seats.

Also according to Sabri, the race circuit in Jempol, Negri Sembilan, which was completed last year only cost RM1.3 million as it was a joint effort between private agencies, local authorities and the state government.

Ismail Sabri blamed the lack of platforms and motorsport facilities as one of the main reasons behind the
rise in illegal racing
 and street gang activities among youths.


Volkswagen Opens 3S Centre In Sabah

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) and Kota Bumi Sdn Bhd today officiated the Volkswagen Kota Bumi 3S Centre located in Inaman, Sabah.
The Volkswagen Kota Bumi 3S centre is the only authorized Volkswagen dealership in Sabah and thus serves as an important contact point for Volkswagen owners in Kota Kinabalu, Inaman, Menggatal, Lintas, Tuaran, Kolombong, and Sepanggar.
Located in Taman Perindustrian Harmoni, the new 3S centre spans over three floors, with a sales area able to display two vehicles. Three experienced aftersales provide comprehensive maintenance and repair services through four service bays.
Volkswagen Kota Bumi is able to service up to 16 cars daily.
Mr Carlwin Yee, Dealer Principal of Kota Bumi Sdn Bhd said that they are committed to ensuring a positive ownership experience for Volkswagen customers in Sabah. “We started as a 2S service centre but we saw a rise in the demand for Volkswagen cars, and we took the opportunity to further expand and build the Volkswagen brand here in the region. We also relocated to a new and strategic area to cater to this demand, and to better serve our existing customers.”
Mr Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM added, “Ensuring the joy of ownership in owning a Volkswagen is our priority, and key to this is our customer satisfaction. We believe that this can only be achieved with the strong support of our dealer partners, and I would like to congratulate Kota Bumi for their commitment and dedication in building the Volkswagen brand in Sabah.”
The addition of Volkswagen Kota Bumi brings the total of Volkswagen 3S centres to 18, nationwide.
Volkswagen Kota Bumi 3S Centre operates from Monday to Saturday from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm. It is closed on Sundays.
Volkswagen showrooms nationwide are also celebrating the Chinese New Year festive period tomorrow, Saturday.
Visitors will enjoy food,
Yee Sang
, and mini-activities in addition to enjoying ongoing CNY offers of up to RM20,000 off selected models; existing owners can also take advantage of ongoing aftersales offers.