Money-saving offers and rewards at SDAC Ford dealers nationwide

Visit
www.bhpetrol.com.my
 for more information
.

With the Hari Raya festive period in the coming months, there may be additional expenditures to prepare for the celebration. To help save for that,
Sime Darby Auto ConneXion
 (SDAC) has a service promotion which will help Ford owners save money so they have more to spend for their celebrations.

From now
until May 31, 2021,
 the company is offering savings when customers book a service during this period, they can benefit from savings of up to 20% on selected parts and engine oil. Further savings of 20% are also available on brake and timing belt packages, up to 20% discount on a lubricant package, plus 10% discount for labour charges for the packages mentioned (terms and conditions apply).

“We always aim to deliver value-added benefits and services to our customers. Through this service promotion, we hope to offer customers savings during this festive period to keep them and their vehicles safe and at optimum condition as they go about their daily lives,” said Turse Zuhair, Head of Sales at Sime Darby Auto ConneXion.

Other rewards too

For added peace-of-mind, Ford vehicles will receive a free 27-point vehicle  inspection conducted by Ford-certified technicians to ensure their vehicles are in tip-top  condition. While there may be a restriction on long-distance travel at this time, it is still a good idea to have the vehicle checked periodically so any issues can be identified early and addressed before they worsen (and cost more to fix!).

Additionally, each customer who spends more than RM350 in a single receipt will receive an exclusive Ford travel mug and all customers bringing their vehicles for servicing will also receive free green packets (subject to stock availability).

Genuine Ford Parts with warranty

As the sold distributor of Ford in Malaysia, SDAC will always ensure that only Genuine or Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts are used when servicing at any of the 39 authorised Ford service centres nationwide.

With Genuine Ford Parts, customers can be certain of the highest standards of quality, fit and  finish as the parts are designed for specific Ford vehicles to ensure superior performance. When purchased at the service centre, they are also covered by a warranty for a period of 12 months or 20,000 kms (whichever occurs first), excluding wear and tear parts.

An easy way to book a service appointment

For the convenience of owners, a service appointment can be booked online via the Ford website at anytime, from anywhere. All you need is a smartphone or other device with an internet connection. The
e-Service Appointment
 is available for 7 authorised Ford Service Centres – Ford Ara Damansara, Ford  Petaling Jaya 2, Ford Juru, Ford Butterworth, Ford Kuching, Ford Kota Kinabalu and Ford  Tawau.

Response to the request for an appointment will be prompt and the owner will immediately know  the available vehicle service time slots at the chosen dealership as well as select and confirm their preferred schedule, up to one month in  advance. To make an e-Service Appointment booking,
click here
.

Alternatively, customers can call an authorised Ford Service Centre directly or contact the  Customer Care Hotline at
1300 38 3181
.

SDAC adheres to the government’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) at all its outlets to combat COVID-19 pandemic. Customers are required to follow the requirements such as
MySejahtera
 registration, temperature scanning and social distancing for the safety of everyone. While arranging an appointment in advance is better, the owners can still make use of the comfortable customer lounges if they are waiting for their vehicle, and enjoy a nasi lemak or drink too.

2021 Ford Rangers get 5-year warranty as standard


Five things we like about the 2019 Porsche Macan

The latest
2019 Porsche Macan
 was just launched a few months back, followed by the more powerful
Porsche Macan S
 variant during the first-ever Porsche Sportscar Together Day held at the Sepang International Circuit just last month.

For months, we’ve been following the progress of Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP) and their ever-growing range of delicious Porsche vehicles here in Malaysia. Noticing our interest, SDAP decided to let us have a go at the Porsche Macan. We took that opportunity straight away and had it to ourselves for the whole day.

With that being said, here are the five things we absolutely adore about the 2019 Porsche Macan.

1) DESIGN

This is by far one of the sportiest-looking SUVs in the Malaysian market to date and we wouldn’t expect any less from the Porsche designers. Portraying the true essence of Porsche Design DNA, its distinctive exterior features possess a wider stance which is not only good for looks but also driving dynamics.

We all know that when it comes to Porsche, the 911 is the first thing that comes to mind and with the new Macan, you can also see a number of 911 elements thrown into the mix. This is especially significant at the rear end with its new taillight clusters where they feature a ‘four-point design, further reflecting Porsche brand identity.’

What Porsche is very good at when it comes to design is the combination of modern features together with timeless look that binds the design into a very wholesome façade (which most people tend to agree on). As far as exterior is concerned, we love it (as well as many other who saw us rolling around town in it).

The new Macan’s interior presents loads of Porsche technology all within the reach of the driver. Some people might be overwhelmed by all the buttons, switches, and knobs found near the cockpit (especially the centre console) but for everyday driving, you’ll only need to use just some. With that being said, it’s always better to have more access rather than less.

Featuring a much bigger 10.9-inch full-HD touchscreen, the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system offers seamless connectivity to your smartphones together with mobile phone preparation, two audio interfaces, and a very intelligent voice control.

Getting connected was quite easy and once that is done, the smart system will suit to your personal requirement via predefined files. In other words, the car will learn about your preferences and adapt to your personality. How cool is that?

2) ENGINE

Powerful yet small capacity engines are all the rage now and with the 2019 Porsche Macan, you’ll get a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine. This unit produces a cool 252hp and 370Nm of torque. Controlled using a seven-gear PDK dual-clutch gearbox, you are able to propel yourself from 0 to 100km/h in just 6.7 seconds. Top speed? Limited to 225km/h. We also how love how it growls, snap, crackle, and pop when you give it a bit of gas to play around with.

That’s all well and good but we were more amazed on how the power is controlled and delivered to its intelligent all-wheel-drive Porsche Traction Management (PTM) system. There’s nothing aggressive about the big power figures. In fact, you’ll find that the Macan will hit these figures quite elegantly without being too overwhelming. This is indeed very good, especially when you’re chauffeuring your family around town.

When driven normally, the average fuel consumption rating sits at around 8.1 litres for every 100km. in theory, its 65-litre fuel tank can actually travel up to around 800km before having the need to stop and refuel. We didn’t have time to test its fuel efficiency just yet because the car was way to fun to drive. Hence why the figures that we got were slightly higher than the one you see above.

3) DRIVEABILITY

Driving the Macan around town normally feels like any other premium SUV. It’s surprisingly very comfortable, well behaved, and very much contented into giving the best driving experience for the entire family. However, this does not mean that the Macan is not fun to drive.

With a brand-new overhauled chassis, the 2019 Porsche Macan is actually very dynamic and enjoyable to drive, especially on mountainous roads. If there’s one thing that can be said about the Macan, it would be that it can get a whole lot sportier when you put that pedal to the metal.

Slow speeds allow for great manoeuvrability around tight spaces like shopping mall parking lots and higher speeds offer great balance and pinpoint accuracy when tackling those winding roads. It might be a big Porsche, but it is still a Porsche at heart and that’s is very, very admirable.

4) PRICE

For the Malaysian market, the 2019 Porsche Macan is priced at RM455,000 (on-the-road without insurance). This might be a hefty sum to pay for a 2.0-litre premium SUV but the folks at SDAP understands that all too well and decided to give more than what you’re paying for.

This is why they decided to include the Macan’s Premium Package worth over RM26,000 into that price tag to ensure that all owners will get the best bang for their buck. All Macan models offered by SDAP will automatically include:

Power Steering Plus

Mechanical roll-up sun blinds (rear side windows)

Auto dimming mirrors

ParkAssist + reverse camera

Comfort lighting package

BOSE surround sound system (this alone is around RM6,000)

Apple CarPlay with Siri voice control

Porsche Macan exclusive floor mats

Front electric power seats with memory package

5) ADDITIONAL OPTIONS

The Premium Package alone is already a good deal to have but if you’re looking for more things to customize your ride according to your super fine taste, SDAP has that well prepared with their extensive range of additional options.

The test unit that we got was fitted with all of these things and together, they amount to close to RM80,000! We’re talking air suspension with self-levelling functions, a bigger 75-litre fuel tank, Sport Chrono Package with Mode Switch (just like the one found in the new 992), two-toned leather seats, and many, MANY more.

Our personal favourite has to be its 21-inch Sport Classic Wheels finished in high-gloss black that elevates the Macan’s exterior looks onto a whole new dimension. If you want something that’s badass, dope and what the millennials today term as ‘fire’, you would want your Macan to ride around on these 21-inch beauties.

So, there you have it, folks. These are the top things that we adore about the all-new Macan. To know more, head over to any of the Porsche authorised showrooms around the country and witness it for yourself. Alternatively, you can go to

https://www.porsche.com/pap/_malaysia_/models/macan/
 for further details.

Porsche’s all-electric Taycan fully revealed, priced from RM632,000


McLaren Automotive To Collaborate With Stealth Fighter People At ‘Skunk Works’

McLaren Automotive will be collaborating with Lockheed Martin’s ‘Skunk Works’ to assess a futuristic design methodology. ‘Skunk Works’ is the nickname of the aerospace company’s advanced development projects division, which goes back to 1943, where aircraft like the twin-tail P-38 Lightning of World War II as well as the first Stealth Fighter were developed in secrecy.

McLaren’s collaboration project will focus on deploying a new Skunk Works design system, developed for the world of aviation, into the realms of high-performance, cutting-edge automotive supercar design.

The pioneering software sets the parameters for high-speed systems more accurately and swiftly than traditional design methods. McLaren scientists and engineers will work alongside counterparts at Skunk Works to test and explore how this cutting-edge technology could be employed commercially in the automotive design world.

To mark the start of the technology collaboration, both companies showcased some of their latest projects at Skunk Works headquarters in the Californian desert. A
McLaren Artura hybrid hypercar
 was parked next to the Darkstar, a concept hypersonic aircraft which Skunk Works designers had helped create for the ‘
Top Gun: Maverick
’ movie.

How much of the Darkstar is based on whatever secret project is going on is unknown but the design looked so convincing that the Chinese repositioned their satellite to photograph it when it was being used for filming during the movie. More recently, the Darkstar was displayed at an event at Edwards Air Force Base in California, where many experimental aircraft are tested.

The Artura is also an advanced vehicle, the first-ever series-production High-Performance Hybrid (HPH) supercar by McLaren. It is the brand’s first model built on the all-new McLaren Carbon Lightweight Architecture (MCLA) which is uniquely optimized for HPH powertrains, and features an all-new twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine with an e-motor.

“McLaren is a pioneering company that has always pushed boundaries and sought out new innovative and disruptive solutions to making the ultimate supercars. Working alongside an iconic company such as Lockheed Martin Skunk Works, renowned for their visionary focus on the future, is a natural fit. We hope this is the start of a longer and deeper collaboration that will benefit our customers in the long-term,” said Darren Goddard, Chief Technical Officer at McLaren Automotive.

McLaren Solus GT – from gaming world to reality

Click here
 for more videos at The Piston Show.


Opel Manta returns as a ‘RestoMod’ for 50th anniversary

Visit
www.bhpetrol.com.my
 for more information.

Opel, a brand more familiar to older Malaysians, has brought back the iconic Manta as a one-off all-electric special to celebrate the coupe’s 50th anniversary. Called the Manta GSe ElektroMOD, it reflects the growing trend of transforming classic cars like into so-called ‘RestoMods’ with modern components and powertrains.

Change of ‘heart’

The first electric RestoMod by Opel (once a GM subsidiary and now part of the Stellantis Group), the Manta GSe has an electric powertrain with an output of 108 kW (147 ps) and 225 Nm of torque. It uses the original 4-speed gearbox, allowing drivers to manually change gears, or alternatively, engage the fourth gear and drive automatically.

With a 31-kWh lithium-ion battery pack, the Manta GSe has a claimed range of around 200 kms, with regenerative braking to improve range. Full recharging with a 9-kW onboard charger can be completed in just under 4 hours.

Design elements from Vauxhall

The Manta GSe also uses some of the latest design elements from Vauxhall, the British brand that is also part of the Stellantis Group. These include the brand’s Vizor-styled front end with Pixel technology allowing it to issue messages, such as ‘
I am on a zero e-mission
’, followed by the silhouette of a manta ray gliding over the Pixel-Vizor.

The original Manta in 1973

The front end also features LED daylight running lights, while the iconic circular rear lights come with a striking three-dimensional LED design. The yellow paintwork is contrasted by the signature black bonnet, with the wheel arches housing specially designed 17-inch Ronal alloy wheels with 195/40 tyres at the front, and 205/40 tyres at the rear.

Digital tech inside

As expected of a modern RestoMod, the interior features the latest digital technology. The classic round instruments have been replaced by a Pure Panel, with two driver-oriented 12-inch and 10-inch digital displays. The sound system has also been modernised with a new unit that has connectivity which was not available in the 1970s.

The sports seats come with a yellow centre line and have a modern structure for improved comfort and support. The steering wheel has a classic 3-spoke design (no airbag as this is only a showcar) and features a yellow marker in the 12 o’clock position for an added sporty touch.

Surfaces in the cockpit and door panels are matt grey, matching the neo-classic’s other yellow and black coloured elements. The ceiling of the passenger compartment is lined with fine Alcantara and completes the stylish ambience.

Volkswagen’s 1966 Classic transformed into a 21st century zero emissions vehicle


Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 AMG: Forget The Rest, This Is The SUV To Have

“So what’s the best car you have ever driven?”

That’s a question every motoring journalist gets asked at least a couple dozen times in his career.

And it’s a dreaded question too, because there is no such thing as ‘the best car’.

Every car has its own special place, and it would be dreadful to label one car as the best car, ever.

But every once in a while we get to drive a car that seems to do everything perfectly.

It doesn’t seem to put a wheel wrong.

It has all the technologies you could want.

All the safety features too.

It has enough space for a family and their dog.

And it is luxurious too.

Those that have a need for speed will find the powertrain to be generous.

While those that want a laid back comfortable drive will find plenty of that too.

I am raving about the new Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 AMG.

It is not a proper fire-breathing AMG but features an AMG bodykit. It is a once in a lifetime SUV that is very nearly the perfect car.

Why very-nearly then? Because at a little under RM480,000, it isn’t exactly affordable for the masses. So there aren’t many people that will be able to experience its greatness.

But considering what you are getting for the price, it is actually a good deal.

The size of the SUV is the first thing that gets you because it is quite a big car.

Then there’s the design. It won’t be too far fetched to say that this SUV is arguably one of the prettiest to ever come out of Stuttgart.

It is definitely better looking than its coupe bodied twin, to my eyes at least.

Step inside and the large size of the GLE is echoed by the spacious cabin. Further echoed by the gargantuan panoramic roof that extends the length of the roof, allowing in a generous amount of light that further accentuates its spaciousness.

Having said that, I did find the driver footwell to be rather tight, especially around the knee area.

I love how massive the dashboard is and yet the switches and buttons were never more than a gentle stretch of the arm away.

And it is the huge 12.3-inch MBUX screen that dominates the dashboard.

The screen on the left is touch enabled and that is where you access your music, navigation and car controls such as air-conditioning and such.

The screen on the right and directly ahead of the driver though is where you get the usuals such as the speedometer and rpm dial, among others.

What’s cool about the current generation Benz’s is that the speedo and rpm dial as well as the ancillary information can all be customised to fit your mood.

There is Sport mode that turns the dials a shade of orange, while Basic simply gives you the necessities like speed and engine rpm.

This is among a host of other info of course like gear position, drive mode, the time and such.

The quality of everything is unlike modern Benz’s either, and that is a good thing.

In fact it reminds me of Benzes from the early 90s, well built, tough, and feels like everything would last a couple of decades.

It is probably the best Mercedes-Benz interior this side of an S-Class.

There are also two protruding hoops on the sides of the centre panel that seem like they came off a Porsche Cayenne.

They look awkward at first, but I later realised they are great armrests on long drives. They are also great to hang on too when the driver feels like wrestling some corners.

The rear seats are electronically adjustable with the controls located on the door panel, just as they are on the front (I love that about Benz’s).

The rear sitting space is spacious and very comfortable and that is putting it lightly.

There are also two hidden seats in the booth area, making the GLE a proper seven-seater.

These seats can be summoned into space or neatly tucked away by a press of a button located in the booth.

Of course, because they are placed in the booth so it is not very comfortable to sit in the third row. But they are perfect for children and vertically-challenged adults.

If you haven’t already realised, there isn’t much to complain about the GLE. I would perhaps have preferred a brighter coloured interior rather than the dark ash wood trimming, but that’s a personal choice.

I also don’t quite like the awkward looking dummy vent on the left of the MBUX screen. Surely the designers could have thought of something better.

But then the 590-watt 13-speaker Burmester sound system makes everything better.

I also love the way the GLE drives.

The 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbocharged engine puts out an impressive 364hp and 500Nm of torque. This is transferred to all-four wheels via a 9-speed gearbox.

Despite its weight, it’s no slouch either. It does the charge to 100km/h in just 5.7-seconds. And that ‘oh-so-sweet’ airmatic suspension system brilliantly disconnects you from bumpy, uneven roads and then reconnects you when you select Sport mode and want to wring the car by its steering wheel.

The GLE 450 AMG seems to have it all. It is ideal for the family man who needs comfort, space and safety and yet does not want to outgrow his inner power loving, corner carving youngster.

Personally, this is the SUV to have at the moment because the alternatives from BMW and Volvo are all hybrids. And we all know how the prices of hybrids tank as soon as the car leaves the showroom.

The GLE 450 AMG though, I personally think that there will be plenty of demand for it in the used car market as well, simply because it is that desirable. Watch the video below to get up close to the GLE 450 AMG!


11th generation Honda Civic is 2022 North American Car of the Year

In 2016, the 10
th
 generation of the Honda Civic won the North American Car of the Year title and in 2022, its successor has again been picked by the jury of automotive journalists. This is the third time for the model which is the most popular compact car in America, with the first time being in 2006 with the 8
th
 generation. Add the Accord in 2018, and the Ridgeline which was picked as the North American Truck of the Year in 2017, and Honda has collected five titles to date.

The North American Car, Utility and Truck of the Year awards honour excellence in innovation, design, safety features, performance, technology, driver satisfaction and value. Initiated in 1994, they are judged by 50 professional automotive journalists from the USA and Canada who work for independent magazines, television, radio, newspapers and industry websites.

“The Honda Civic has long set the standard by which other compact cars are measured and this all-new Civic raised that bar in every conceivable way,” said Michael Kistemaker, Assistant Vice-President of Honda national sales, American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “We’re especially proud for the Civic development team in Japan and our production associates at our plants in Greensburg, Indiana and Alliston, Ontario where the 2022 Civic Sedan, Hatchback and Si are built.”

Redesigned from the ground-up, the all-new Honda Civic has a more rigid body structure, an advanced and enhanced chassis wrapped in a more sophisticated, sleek and sporty design with top class interior space and comfort. The drivetrain options include a high-torque VTEC Turbo engine and a host of new standard safety, driver-assistive and connected-car technologies.

Interior of US version of new Civic.

Last October, the 11
th
 generation Civic was also recognized by
WardsAuto
 in the categories for
Wards 10 Best Interiors
 and
Wards 10 Best User Experience
 for 2021. Inspired by the classic human-centered designs of early Honda vehicles, the brand’s new interior design direction – applied in the new Civic – helps enhance the driving experience by eliminating complexity and advancing the user experience through thoughtful and pleasing design elements.

The design philosophy features a renewed focus on Honda’s classic “Man Maximum/Machine Minimum” (M/M) approach that maximizes cabin space, while minimizing space required for mechanical components. Inside, the M/M approach results in a very simple, clean and modern take on classic Civic values. By evoking the uncluttered cabin design of early generations of the model, the new model’s interior has exceptional visibility, intuitive ergonomics, generous passenger volume and driver-focused technology.

Right model, right time

The Civic, in its first generation, was one of the models that boosted the popularity of Japanese cars in America when it appeared in the early 1970s. It arrived at a time when the country was going through an energy and air quality crisis, and besides its compact size, the innovative fuel-efficient CVCC engine was also able to meet the newly-introduced exhaust emission standards without the need for a catalytic converter.

Form then on, Honda (already the leader in the motorcycle market) became increasingly popular in what was then the world’s largest car market. To date, Honda has produced nearly 11 million Civics in North America (more than 5 million in the USA), representing nearly 30% of the brand’s vehicle production in the region.

Coming to Malaysia this week

The
11th generation Civic
 will also be launched in Malaysia tomorrow (Thursday, January 13) and the locally-assembled line-up will include a RS version with a 182 ps/240 Nm VTEC 1.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. For more information, visit
www.honda.com.my
 or authorized Honda showrooms in Malaysia.

New Honda Civic Driven in Malaysia: What’s It Like and Should You Buy It?

Vaccination does not make you immune to COVID-19 infection. You can still get infected, and although you may not show symptoms, you could spread the coronavirus to others. Do not stop taking protective measures such as wearing a facemask, washing hands frequently and social distancing.


The all-new 2019 BMW 3 Series is here in Malaysia! RM328,800

BMW Malaysia has officially launched the all-new
2019 BMW 3 Series
 earlier today at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC). The seventh-generation iconic sports sedan comes after more than 15 million units of the previous generations were sold around the globe.

According to Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia, Mr. Harald Hoelzl, “The BMW 3 Series is the model that established the premium sports sedan segment. For over 45 years, the 3 Series has continuously raised the benchmark for Sheer Driving Pleasure in the premium automotive industry. Today, the All-New BMW 3 Series in its seventh generation, takes the signature characteristics of a BMW to another level with a new dynamic design, superior driving dynamics as well as technology and innovation never seen before in the Malaysian automotive industry.”

The all-new BMW 3 Series also includes the M Sport package which has been prepared exclusively for the Malaysian market. This goes together with the car’s new design language which is a perfect balance between iconic looks and timeless elements found throughout the new 3 Series. This can be seen from several parts of the car including its bigger kidney grille, all-LED headlights, Hofmeister kink plus many more.

To further elevate the all-new BMW 3 Series’ Sheer Driving Pleasure, the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant with state-of-the-art voice recognition intelligence is also included in the package. Features like the BMW Digital Key allows owners to unlock and start the vehicles using Android phones via the Near Field Communications (NFC) technology. There’s also the Reversing Assist which ‘records the cars journey every 50 metres, enabling it to semi autonomously reverse at low speeds through narrow corners.’ How awesome is that??

The most powerful 2.0-litre TwinPower Turbo petrol engine ever to be fitted in any BMW model can be found in the new BMW 330i M Sport where it is able to produce a whopping 258 hp and 400 Nm of maximum torque anywhere between 1,550 to 4,400rpm. All the power is controlled via a further-developed 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission system.

This translates to:

0 to 100km in just 5.8 seconds

6.4-litre/100km fuel consumption

100% awesomeness

The vehicle’s interior has been elevated to an entirely new level that offers ‘an instant promise of unadulterated driving pleasure’. This includes:

BMW Connected Package Professional subscription

BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant and the BMW Digital Key

BMW Live Cockpit Professional with a fully-digital 12.3-inch instrument cluster and 10.25-inch Control Display

BMW Operating System 7.0

M Sport leather steering wheel with multifunction and shift paddles

Ambient interior lighting

Five amazing colour options are prepared for interested future owners; Portimao Blue, Black Sapphire, Alpine White, Mineral Grey and Sunset Orange, paired with premium Black or Cognac Leather Vernasca upholstery and interior trim finished in Aluminium Tetragon. The All-New BMW 3 Series will be available at all authorised BMW dealerships nationwide from 28th March 2019 at a price of RM328,800 (on-the-road price without insurance).

Owners of the All-New BMW 3 Series will experience the complete BMW Group Malaysia Premium Ownership experience which includes:

BMW 5-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Scheduled Service Program

BMW 2-Year/ 24 Month Tyre Warranty Program for its Run Flat Tyre offering and services

BMW Roadside Assistance and Accident Hotline

The BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile App – BMW White Card

BMW Service Online


TOYOTA GAZOO Racing’s Ott Tänak takes historic first title with second place finish in Rally de España

TOYOTA GAZOO Racing World Rally Team driver Ott Tänak and his co-driver Martin Järveoja have made history by securing their first FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) titles with a second place finish on Rally de Espana, the 13
th
 round of the 2019 WRC. The event was won by Thierry Neuville/Nicolas Gilsoul in Hyundai i20 Coupe WRC.

Tänak becomes only the third different driver to claim the WRC crown since 2004, while he and Järveoja are the first Estonians to ever achieve the feat. It is the fifth occasion that a Toyota driver has won the WRC Drivers’ title, and the first time since Didier Auriol triumphed in 1994.

Having won six of the 12 rallies so far, Tänak arrived at the second last round of the season with a 28-point advantage in the championship. In the series’ only true mixed-surface event, Tänak was fifth overall following the opening day on gravel, before 4 consecutive stage wins on asphalt on Saturday promoted him up into third place.

On the final day, he opened up a comfortable advantage with the Toyota Yaris WRC over the driver behind. But it was not easy-going and he still needed to push hard on the rally-ending Power Stage to secure the title. In an incredible run over the 20.72-km stage, he was 3.6 seconds faster than anyone to not only take the full 5 bonus points, but also grab second place overall on the rally.

Jari-Matti Latvala finished in fifth position, scoring important points for the Manufacturers’ Championship, which Toyota remains in with a chance of winning at the final round in Australia on November 14 as the gap is 18 points from the leader. After retiring on Saturday morning following a crash, Kris Meeke returned to action on Sunday under restart rules.

Sending his congratulations to the duo, Akio Toyota, Toyota’s President and the driving force behind the company’s greater motorsport orientation, said: “Last year in Rally Finland, I saw so many Estonian fans waving Estonian flags to cheer on Ott and Martin. They said the flags were not a weight on their shoulders. Instead, they felt the strong support from all the fans to achieve their best. I’m glad that our Yaris WRC competed with such a strong wave of support from our Estonian friends and supporters, and we rode the wave to the championship title!”

Carlos Sainz in the Toyota Celica GT-Four ST165 on the way to a WRC Driver’s title in 1990.

Toyota’s’ World Rally Champions

1990: Carlos Sainz (Toyota Celica GT-Four ST165)

1992: Carlos Sainz (Toyota Celica Turbo 4WD ST185)

1993: Juha Kankkunen (Toyota Celica Turbo 4WD ST185)

1994: Didier Auriol (Toyota Celica Turbo 4WD ST185)

2019: Ott Tänak (Toyota Yaris WRC)


Registration to travel interstate to return home starts today

With the improving situation relating to the COVID-19 pandemic (though it is far from being over), the government has been progressively easing restrictions set under the Movement Control Order (MCO) that started on March 18 and is presently scheduled to be lifted on May 12, 2020. During that time, there have been many people who may have been in other towns and cities, away from their regular places of residence, who got stuck there because interstate travel was stopped.

As Hari Raya is coming and it has also been some time that they have been stuck away from their homes, the government is considering allowing movement for the purpose of returning to their homes. It should be noted that the government is firm on not permitting ‘balik kampung’ travel and permission is likely to be given to those who can prove that their actual place of residence is in another town or city.

At this time, starting from today, those who want a permit to travel for the purpose of returning home can apply from today (Saturday April 25). They can register online using the Gerak Malaysia app with the police and Communications and Multimedia Ministry (MCMC). Those who do not have internet access can go to the police station nearest to them to register.

Download the Gerak Malaysia app at the
Apple AppStore
 and
Google PlayStore

However, it should be noted that this is only a registration process and not only subject to approval by the police, but it is also not confirmed that the restriction on interstate travel will be lifted. A final decision will only be made on or after May 1, after a review by the National Security Council and Health Ministry.

University and college students may go home

Meanwhile, plans are also being made to allow university and college students to return to their kampungs. They have been confined to their campuses since the MCO started and as there have been no clusters of infections appearing in these places, it may be safe to allow them to leave.

However, the Health Ministry, while stressing that there should be no ‘balik kampung’ travel, has strongly recommended that any such move must be done properly with protective measures such as social distancing being implemented. Transportation should also not be by public transport so buses will have to be organized to send the students.

Balik kampung journeys will not be permitted this year so we won’t see such scenes when thousands of vehicles move along the highways.

JPJ open from April 29

Meanwhile, the JPJ (Road Transport Department) will open its counters from April 29 (next Wednesday) with limited services available from 8 am to 1 pm. The services are primarily for commercial vehicle owners.

Registration of new vehicles is not mentioned so car companies won’t be able to get this necessary process completed in order to deliver the new cars to customers. So it looks like the car industry will see zero sales for April, an unprecedented occurrence in its history. The same would apply in some countries although many only began their restrictions after Malaysia’s move and will remain in lockdown for a number of weeks more.

Most authorised service centres are open again but you should make an appointment first.

As for service centres which had been closed, most of those managed by authorized franchise holders are operational. Permission has been granted for them to provide aftersales services but because the conditions stipulate a minimal workforce, appointments need to be made in advance to schedule work. Also bear in mind that 10-km range limit from your home under the MCO (you can use Waze or Google Maps to determine the distance).

Health warning when you get home

For those who have been away from their homes for over a month, it will be nice getting back to familiar surroundings. But before you start to use the water in the house, you should consider running it for some time to get fresh water in. Studies have found that over many weeks, bacteria can start to grow in water pipes that have not had water passing through them daily. Even filters may have bacterial growth which can occur anywhere there is dampness.
This article
 will give you more insights into the issue.


Join the largest Beetle gathering in Malaysia this July 13th

Calling all Beetle enthusiasts, this one is for you. Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) will be organising their very first Beetle, An Iconic Gathering. This will be the largest Beetle Gathering in Malaysia and VPCM wants to welcome each and every Beetle owner in the country to celebrate this iconic cult classic.

The event will happen on 13 July 2019 at the Palace of Justice in Putrajaya and they’re planning something huge. How huge? Well, Volkswagen will be attempting to break the current Malaysian record of the largest Beetle gathered at one location during the event and this is why all Volkswagen Beetle owners should take part in the massive attempt.

According to Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM said, “Volkswagen ends production of the much-loved Beetle this year, and we want to give this global bestseller the send-off it deserves by celebrating its legacy. We would like to invite owners and Beetle enthusiasts to the gathering to help us break the record and celebrate the world’s favourite Bug.”

“This is a great opportunity for Beetle enthusiasts to admire classic and current Beetle models in all its incarnations, and with many of them personalised to match their owners’ colourful personalities,” added Erik.

The celebration will kick-off with a 150-strong Beetle Sunshine Tour convoy that will be flagged off in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. The convoy will be making its way through the streets of the Golden Triangle before proceeding to Putrajaya where it will join the other Beetle cars at the Palace of Justice.

Beetle: An Iconic Gathering is open to all Beetle owners in Malaysia and interested participants can register and their cars on the Volkswagen website at
https://bit.ly/2X2poH7
. Participation is free, and details of the event are provided during the online registration. All participants will also receive a certificate of participation from Volkswagen.

For more information, head over to
www.volkswagen.com.my/beetle/byebyebeetle
.


2021 Renault Megane R.S. 300 Trophy is here!

With the pandemic situation easing off (and hopefully headed that way), many new models are now making their debut in the Malaysian market and at TC Euro Cars, the Renault Megane R.S. 300 Trophy hot hatch is now in the showrooms.

This is the facelifted successor to the car that set a new record for the
fastest front-wheel drive car around the Nurburgring circui
t
 in 2019. Priced at
RM326,476.61
 (excluding insurance and with 50% of sales tax exempted until June 30, 2021), the latest Megane R.S. features cosmetic changes such as new full LED lighting units (with high-performance R.S. Vision) front and rear, a honeycomb radiator grille which incorporates R.S. double diamond logo, and 19-inch Jerez wheels featuring a diamond-cut finish with red borders.

The R.S. version can also be identified by the red Brembo brake calipers, wing-mounted air extractors, which optimise airflow through the wheelarches, rear bumper with a built-in diffuser and the iconic central exhaust, and the narrow roof spoiler. Inside, there’s exclusive R.S. upholstery, high-end materials, sophisticated finishes and distinctive details representative of the Renault Sport identity

Upgraded powerplant

The powerful 1.8-litre 4-cylinder engine has also been upgraded and with turbocharging and direct injection, now produces up to 300 ps/420 Nm. This impressive output passes through a 6-speed EDC transmission on the way to the front wheels and the driver can make gear selection via paddle shifters at the steering wheel if preferred.

4-mode R.S. Drive and 4CONTROL

The shifting characteristics can be varied to suit driving conditions using the R.S. Drive mode which has four modes. There’s also Launch Control for a positive start using maximum output, and enable the car to get from standstill to 100 km/h within a claim 5.7 seconds.

The R.S. models are developed with the assistance of Renault Sport, an experience organisation which has been involved in F1 and other high-level motorsports. As such, its chassis in particular benefits from motorsport experience and in the case of the Megane R.S. 300 TROPHY, the Cup chassis features a Torsen mechanical Limited Slip Differential. For the 2021 model, there is new calibration which enables more precise entry to corners and improved traction when exiting corners.

The car also comes with 4CONTROL, a 4-wheel steering system that enhances agility through tight turns and improves cornering stability at higher speeds. While skilled drivers may not always like electronic aids, such systems allow less skilled drivers to explore the very high limits of cars like the Megane R.S. with more safety.

While the 4CONTROL 4-wheel steering ensures that the turning circle is not compromised by the differential, the use of bi-material brake discs shaves off 1.8 kgs of unsprung mass in each corner, making for razor sharp high-speed manoeuvring. In addition, rally-inspired technology is evident with the installation of 4 hydraulic compression stops on all shock absorbers. These maintain the car’s poise on bumpy roads and optimise tyre-ground contact for better grip.

The new Megane R.S 300 Trophy comes with a 3-year/100,000 km warranty (whichever comes first). Customers have a choice of 5 colours options, with the signature Liquid Yellow and Orange Tonic costing an extra RM9,000. Besides purchasing with a Hire-Purchase loan, customers can op[t for TCEC’s Subscription plan with 1-year to 3-year terms.

2021 Renault 5 Prototype


Bentley Bentayga V8 Debuts In Malaysia!

Since its introduction, the
Bentley Bentayga
 has defined a new sector and set the luxury SUV benchmark, offering customers the ultimate Grand Touring experience unrestricted by landscape or conditions. The award-winning Bentley model is now available in Malaysia in its most sporting guise to date – the
Bentayga V8.

“The Bentayga V8 is the ultimate luxury SUV that delivers an uncompromising Bentley experience on- and off-road. We know this new model will be highly sought after by our customers thanks to its sleek, sporty look, immense power and acceleration,”
 explained
 Jerry Lee, Managing Director of Wearnes Quest.

At the heart of the latest Bentayga model is a new-generation
4.0-litre, twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine
, which combines immense power with impressive fuel efficiency. The addition of a characteristic V8 burble, stylish twin-quad exhaust pipes and optional carbon-ceramic brakes, reveals more of the luxury SUV’s sporting character. Sitting at the core of the Bentayga range, the new V8 model fuses exquisite luxury with power, usability and extensive sporting ability. Its responsive performance is fully customisable on demand by the driver through Bentley’s Drive Dynamics system, from limousine-like refinement to sporting precision.

In a nutshell…

• Power, luxury, usability and sportiness

• 4.0-litre, twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine develops 542 bhp

(550 PS) and 568 lb.ft. (770 Nm)
 of torque

• 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds (
0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds
); top speed of

180 mph (
290 km/h
)

• Unmistakable V8 engine burble adds to emotional allure

• Optional carbon-ceramic brakes – world’s largest front brake system

To read more about the Bentley Bentayga V8, download this FULL press release:
01 Press Information – Bentayga V8 Debuts in Malaysia

For the FULL specifications, download this:
02 Bentley Vehicle Technical Specifications – Bentayga V8


Aston Martin Wings Series is a world of beauties

Some manufacturers around the world have close ties with the world of aviation and the latest Aston Martin Wings Series is a complete catalogue of the brand’s many endeavours in the world of aviation, especially with UK’s Royal Air Force (RAF). Their celebration involves the unveiling of a new logo and plans for more special limited-edition models in the future. Yeah!

Aston Martin’s relationship with the RAF is no mere coincidence as three of its four UK manufacturing plants are located at former RAF stations. The marque’s manufacturing facilities which are decked out with advanced machinery are all housed in ex-MOD Super Hangars.

The result is Aston Martin’s very own bespoke service called ‘Q by Aston Martin’ that helps to deliver some of the finest limited-edition models linked to their heritage in aviation. The very first model was introduced back in 2017 which was the Aston Martin Vanquish S Red Arrows edition.

This was then followed by the Aston Martin V8 Vantage S Blades Edition, a tribute to the famous British aerobatics squadron. All five Blade Edition Aston Martins were delivered to customers during a very special day at Sywell Aerodrome where each new owner was treated to an aerobatic flight experience with The Blades.

The Aston Martin V12 Vantage S “Spitfire 80” pays homage to the brand’s involvement during the World Wars when they were called to assist in building aircraft components, specifically for the Spitfire and Mosquito planes. Only eight models were built which carries the trademark Spitfire yellow pinstripe on the side strakes and deck lid.

According to Aston Martin President and Group CEO, Andy Palmer, “Aston Martin will always be synonymous with aviation, from our wings logo to the heritage of our manufacturing sites across the UK. The Vanquish S Red Arrows edition was a great success for everyone concerned and I look forward to seeing our future aviation-related special editions.”

AMB 001 – Aston Martin’s first motorcycle, priced from almost RM500,000!


New Aston Martin Vantage breaks convention

Aston Martin has finally revealed the newest member of its family, the latest Vantage. This sleek two seater picks up where its predecessor left off, offering a sleek silhouette and a healthy helping of power. Its design however, is a major departure from the automaker’s current design language. At 4465mm, the Vantage is 284mm shorter than the DB11, and is 34mm shorter than a Porsche 911.

The signature front grille receives far more real estate than before, it’s placed lower and has been integrated with the lower lip assembly. Gone are the familiar headlights and in its place, narrower ones that blend with the lines of the front fascia. Most prominent of the lot has to be the large swooping bonnet that looks like it stretches for miles.

From the side however, the shape isn’t that dissimilar from its predecessor, but the lower roof line and angular contours do add to the design’s depth. As far as the rear is concerned, you would be forgiven for mistaking the new Vantage for a Porsche, at first glance. The rear haunches, wedged shaped upper section and elongated LED taillights bear more than a passing resemblance to the 911.

On the inside, there’s a whole new interior, which is a breath of fresh air considering Aston rarely likes change. The car’s switchgear consoles are huddled together under the twin chrome-outlined air vents.The 8-inch LCD screen is responsible for controlling the audio, phone mirroring and navigation. A nice addition is the body-colour matching lower centre console, it and the leather inner door handle housing add to the car’s exclusive feel.

Under the bonnet is a 4.0-litre V8 twin turbo engine that develops close to 510bhp and 685Nm of torque. It’s a Mercedes-AMG unit that has been reworked by Aston Martin engineers to ensure that it delivers the same character and feel of engines that preceded it. Both its induction and exhaust systems have been reworked to produce the same visceral feel of the normally aspirated V8 in its predecessor.

The Merc sourced powerplant is mated to a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission that is rear mounted to help with weight distribution. It has specially developed software that allows for shorter and crispier gear changes as well as the refinement and practicality, which is beyond that of dual clutch gearboxes. As such, the Vantage is able to sprint from 0-100km/h in about 3.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 314km/h.

Aston Martin’s Chief Technical Officer, Max Szwaj, said, “As an automotive engineer the challenge is always the same: to achieve greater efficiency in every area of the car. With an unashamed sports car such as an all-new Aston Martin Vantage you have another challenge – the relentless pursuit of greater emotion and excitement. Not only have we massively improved the hardware of this new Vantage, we’ve invested it with true heart and soul.”

The suspension features a forged double wishbone arrangement at the front and a multi-link one at the rear. Thanks to adaptive damping, the car is able to understand and compensate for the driving conditions and driver needs through the use of several sensors. Four driver modes, Sport, Sport Plus and Track, alter the powertrain, transmission, suspension and steering systems to deliver the required output.

And for the first time on an Aston Martin, the Vantage is fitted with an electronic differential or E-Diff. Linked with the car’s electronic stability control, it is able to understand the car’s behaviour and shift power to the wheel that needs it most. Unlike conventional Limited Slip Differentials or LSDs, it can react in a matter of milliseconds. This improves the car’s cornering and handling capabilities.

Stopping power comes courtesy of  ventilated two-piece 400mm cast-iron discs at the front, with ventilated 360mm discs at the rear, gripped by 6-piston front and 4-piston rear calipers. They offer decent stopping power for the 20-inch lightweight rims that are wrapped in Pirelli P Zero tyres.

The new Vantage is on sale now in the UK, Germany and the USA. Deliveries are scheduled to begin during the second quarter of 2018. The car comes equipped with the latest tech and is bound to be a top seller.


Ford F-150 to become pursuit-ready Police Interceptor

Ford’s venerable F-150 may be joining the elite line up of Police interceptors with this latest reveal. The legendary pick-up truck has been outfitted with the latest tech and protective features that will enable it to function as a pursuit vehicle for various police departments in the United States.

It will be the first pick-up that is pursuit-rated which giving law enforcement agencies a more versatile and capable petrol vehicle. Unlike the Raptor, it is equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 EcoBoost engine that delivers 375bhp and 637Nm of torque. It is said to have more power than any other pursuit rated police vehicle currently in service.

The truck is based on the F-150 FX4 off-road model  and features Ford’s high-strength, military-grade, aluminium-alloy SuperCrew body. It sits on a a high-strength steel frame, which together offer up  the largest passenger volume, payload and towing capacity of any pursuit-rated police vehicle. The Ford also provides best-in-class front, rear shoulder, hip room and rear legroom.

“Ford’s 2018 F-150 Police Responder is the perfect all-terrain law enforcement vehicle,” said Stephen Tyler, Ford’s police brand marketing manager. “Aside from its industry-first on-road pursuit capability, this purpose-built pickup can comfortably seat five, while providing capability in off-road patrol situations for officers in rural environments patrolled by sheriff’s departments, border patrol operations and the Department of Natural Resources.”

Unlike the road-going civilian version, this Police interceptor features a whole slew of upgrades that include police-calibrated brake system with upgraded calipers and pad friction material, upgraded front-stabilizer bar for improved braking and handling and 18-inch alloy wheels with all-terrain tires.

Inside the cabin, there’s a column shifter, heavy-duty cloth front seats with slim bolsters and anti-stab plates as well as vinyl rear seating and heavy-duty vinyl flooring for easy cleanup. There’s also a 240-amp alternator that helps generate enough electricity to support on-board electrical devices used by various police departments including laptops and radios.

Under body skit plates and front bull-bars are installed to ensure maximum protection of the truck when going through rough terrain. Ford has also fitted a class IV hitch, giving the truck towing capabilities, which is said to be best in class with a maximum payload of 3175kg.

The F-150 Interceptor is an amazing truck but we shall have to wait and see if Police departments around the US welcome it as a useful addition to their current fleet of interceptors vehicles.


BMW XM Launched In Malaysia: Priced From RM1.3 Million

BMW has done it again and taken it all a step further with the all-new XM – a perfect combination of BMW M high performance and the innovation of a plug-in hybrid, making it the first ever electrified M high performance drive model.

Visually, there are many questions abound but to us it looks stunning. It looks like a muscular family SUV on steroids whose sleek headlights are overshadowed by the dominant kidney grilles.

Above it, sits two power domes as elements of what BMW calls an expressively sculpted bonnet.

The side view is what BMW calls a ‘coupe style with powerful proportions and styling highlights.’ According to BMW, both the 23′ light alloy wheels and the accent band make the shaping of the XM unique which creates an exclusive effect especially with the Night Gold colour accent.

For the rear design, BMW states that the vertical, hexagonal M twin tailpipes and the rear with gold-coloured diffuser accents gives the XM a unique presence.

For the dimensions, it measures 5,110 mm in length, 2,005 mm (2,235 inclusive of side mirrors) in width and 1,755 mm in height, while its wheelbase measures 3,105 mm. Luggage capacity measures in at 527 litres, which is expandable to 1,820 litres.

But unlike other M cars, the XM will not be based on a standard BMW model, similar to the legendary M-specific model, the M1 back in the 70’s. Making it only the second BMW M model to be given such a treatment.

The two BMW logos on either side of the rear window of the XM make the reference to the last “M only” model – the M1.

Don’t be fooled by it’s looks though because in typical M fashion, the XM offers a behemoth of an engine up front – a 4.4-litre TwinPower Turbo V8 engine putting out a combined 653hp, 800Nm of torque and does the 0-100kmh charge in 4.3 seconds!

Of that total power output, 194hp and 280Nm is made by the electric motor alone while the engine produces 489hp and 650Nm of torque. If you are wondering why the total horsepower and torque figure does not add up, the amount of torque delivered is limited when both the ICE and electric motor combine.

Top speed is capped at 250 km/h (270 km/h with the M Driver’s package, which is included as standard), while electric top speed is capped at 140 km/h.

The XM also comes equipped with Driving Assistant Professional, which includes features such as Steering and Lane Control Assistant, Automatic Speed Limit Assist, Parking Assistant Plus, Stop&Go, Lane Departure Warning, Front/Rear Crossing Traffic Warning, Emergency Stop Assistant and Evasion Assistant, Surround View system, Mode 2 (three-pin wall plug) and Mode 3 (Type 2 connector) charging cables as well as BMW IconicSounds Electric.

The vehicle’s low centre of gravity, advanced control systems such as the actuator-based wheel slip limitation also contribute to the supremely dynamic handling of the XM. Optimum deceleration is ensured by the standard M Sport brakes in Black High-Gloss, with 508 mm compound brake discs on the front axle.

For the comfort access, the XM can also recognise the vehicle’s key from a distance and unlock its doors automatically, offering greater convenience. Besides that, drivers can also use their smart device (if compatible) as a contactless key with the BMW Digital Key Plus feature, enabling them to automatically unlock their vehicle door when approaching the vehicle.

As for the charging aspects of this vehicle, the high-voltage battery located deep in the floor enables an all-electric range of up to 88 kilometres.

The XM can be charged at up to 7.4 kW at an AC charging station. With a battery capacity of 25.7 kWh (net), a complete charge from 0% to 100% takes 4 hours and 15 minutes.

The interior gives out a posh feeling as this is the very first time BMW is exclusively using vintage leather for the accents in the door trims and instrument panel.

The steering wheel is a sport-focused M steering wheel that has M leather with accents in black chrome and carbon.

The front of the XM is equipped with the BMW Live Cockpit Professional, featuring a 12.3-inch Information Display, which works in tandem with the 14.9-inch Control Display to ensure uncluttered functionality.

In addition to that, the integrated BMW Head-Up Display offers optimal viewing in the driver’s line of sight, further increasing the vehicle’s ease of use.

The rear seats or as BMW calls it the “M Lounge”, offers a unique sensation of spaciousness and would make anyone feel like a VIP just by sitting there.

The new design and Alcantara cushions makes it look even more exclusive with details such as the diamond shaped structures in the headrests and stitching patterns.

Even the headliners make you feel like you were in a luxurious spaceship with its illuminated feature and a three-dimensional prism structure enhanced further by a special finishing process that brings out the natural characteristics of the Walknappa leather to perfection.

The cherry on top is of course the ambient lighting which provides a unique presentation of the various lighting designs such as the welcome scenario and the colour selection can be adapted to match different driving modes.

Scheduled to reach Malaysian shores this June 2023, the XM comes with two different variants – the Shadow Line and the Night Gold Line.

The retail price for both variants are RM1,316,450.00. The price goes up to RM1,398,800 should you add the five-year extended warranty and service package.

Colour offerings for the XM include Cape York Green, Carbon Black, Marina Bay Blue, Toronto Red, Mineral White, Black Sapphire and Dravit Grey. As for interior upholstery, available offerings include Leather Merino Deep Lagoon with exclusive contents, Leather Merino Silverstone with exclusive contents, Leather Merino Black and Leather Merino Sakhir Orange.

The differences of the two available variants are on the exterior, with the Night Gold Line having Night Gold accents on its 23-inch M light-alloy star spoke style 923 M bicolour wheels and the Shadow Line has the same wheel design, but it features Black accents instead.


First-Ever BMW i4 M50 Unveiled In Malaysia – From RM430,210

At the Malaysia Autoshow 2023, BMW Malaysia unveiled the first-ever BMW i4 M50.

The first all-electric BMW M was first previewed in conjunction with BMW’s famous motorsports division’s 50th anniversary last year, is destined to increase the benchmark for purely electric driving performance in Malaysia.

Exterior

The BMW M 50 Years Emblems will be standard on the first-ever BMW i4 M50. The car’s athletic personality is underlined by standard equipment elements such as the M Aerodynamics package, M rear spoiler in body colour, and black rear diffuser insert.

It will be available in Mineral White, Black Sapphire, M Brooklyn Grey, M Portimao Blue, and Sanremo Green.

Interior

Inside, the First-Ever BMW i4 M50 is outfitted with M interior trim with Carbon Fibre trim finishers, M Anthracite Headliner, and amenities such as M Sport seats in the front, M seat belts, Sensatec metre panel, and electronic glass roof. The BMW IconicSounds Electric additionally creates an emotional experience by reproducing the dynamic “M” engine sound.

Leather Vernasca in Black with Blue Contrast Stitching and Leather Vernasca in Cognac are available for interior upholstering.

To enhance safety, onboard advanced safety technologies, such as Acoustic Protection for Pedestrians, Active Protection for Pedestrians, Driving Assistant Professional, Parking Assistant Plus, and Active Protection are available.

Power and Performance

The First-Ever BMW i4 M50 features two BMW M eDrive motors, one for the front and one for the rear axles. With an exceptional power of 544 hp and maximum torque of 795 Nm in Sport Boost mode, this arrangement provides an extremely dynamic all-wheel drive experience. The century sprint takes only 3.9 seconds, and the top speed is limited to 225 km/h.

The electric range is 510 kilometres (based on the WLTP cycle) with an energy consumption of 24 – 19 kWh/100 km. The First-Ever BMW i4 M50, which is compatible with both AC and DC charging modes, can be fully charged in 8 hours and 15 minutes with an 11-kW AC charger or charged from 10% to 80% in 31 minutes with a 200-kW DC charger.

Sashi Ambi, Head of Corporate Communications and Sustainability of BMW Group Malaysia said, “As we innovate towards mobility of the future, we at the BMW Group are also oriented towards new technology and thinking on performance, electrification and even sustainable development, while keeping to the signature and DNA of BMW M. This strength has led to powerful transformations – one of which is the first high-performance BMW M electric vehicle in the world, that will set the course for the future of thrilling sportiness. Witnessing this culmination of rich heritage and the spirit of progression, we are thrilled to present the First-Ever BMW i4 M50 for our customers and BMW M enthusiasts in Malaysia, amongst the many other highly anticipated vehicles that will be unveiled today.”

Pricing for the BMW i4 M50 starts from RM430,210.

Premium Ownership Experience

Owners of the First-Ever BMW i4 M50 will receive the complete BMW Group Malaysia Premium Ownership experience which includes:

BMW 5-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Scheduled Service Programme
BMW 8-Year / 160,000 km Battery Warranty (whichever comes first)
BMW Roadside Assistance and Accident Hotline
The BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile App – BMW Privileges Card
BMW Service Online


A closer look at the new Hyundai Elantra

The all-new Hyundai Elantra will be officially launched in Malaysia shortly and while Hyundai Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) still won’t tell us the price, they have shown us the new car and provided some insights into the new design and features.

This time round, for the seventh generation of the 30-year old model line (also called Avante in some countries), HSDM is not having it assembled locally – at least for now. This is perhaps why the model can be launched in Malaysia just 9 months after its global debut. Normally, models that are assembled locally need additional time as the plant has to be set up and suppliers need to also start producing parts.

The HSDM people were first shown the new model in 2019 and then made the decision to combine with Brunei and Singapore on ordering, thereby having a bigger volume that could mean better pricing. However, that also meant that the specifications had to be common as well, so Malaysia too would have to take cars made in Korea. And that is how the new Elantra has reached us so fast and not in 2021.

From the preliminary specifications available, it appears that there will only be one variant offered and in order to get the latest technologies, HSDM opted for the 1.6-litre
SmartStream powertrain
 rather than stick to the older 2-litre unit.

Parametric Dynamics

Hyundai’s design philosophy in the early part of this decade was known as ‘Fluidic Design’ which evolved into ‘Fluidic Sculpture’. Its inspiration was drawn from nature, with organic shapes, flowing lines and curvaceous forms. However, as a new decade starts, the philosophy has changed again and is now going for geometric shapes. Hyundai calls it ‘Parametric Dynamics’.

The company used advanced digital design technology to bring the Parametric Dynamics design language to life. Having three lines meet at one point is the main element of Parametric Dynamics and this formation has actually been avoided in car design. So the new Elantra aims to be a ‘disrupter’, an approach that is popular these days.

Parametric Design is evident in the grille with its honeycomb-like structure as well as on the sides and even in the tail light units. However, Parametric Design is applied to details and it is not a return to an overall wedge form which was popular in the early 1980s. Hyundai designers favour a coupe-like profile even for sedans, which is helpful to aerodynamics apart from having a sporty appeal.

There are a lot of intersecting lines and grooves around the car and while they make for an interesting view (especially when light is shining across the car), we wonder about the implications on bodywork repair. With the plastic parts like the bumper and grille, there’s no choice and they just have to be replaced completely. But owners might still prefer to repair metal body panels like the doors and boot compartment.

Related: Hyundai SmartStream powertrain for new Elantra

More interior space available

Generally, the new body is longer, lower and wider with improvements in occupant space within the ‘Immersive cocoon’ cabin. Structural elements within are wide but low and intelligent packaging has freed up more space.

Interior designers often like to use an aircraft cockpit as the theme for the driver’s area and this is the case for the new Elantra. A large interface consisting of two connected expansive touchscreen displays will give that sort of feel. While there is no Head Up Display (HUD) like a fighter jet, the TFT LCD Supervision cluster provides a lot of information about the car’s operation, including the air pressure in each tyre. The meter display is available in three different presentations, each giving more emphasis on certain information.

For connectivity, there’s Android Auto/Apple CarPlay to bring the apps on the smartphone to the 9-inch display panel in the middle of the dashboard. 4 electrical outlets are available for charging or powering devices and there’s also a wireless charging pad for those smartphones that have the capability.

CBU instead of CKD

Getting the cars from the Korean factory in CBU form is good and bad from the point of specifications. If the model is assembled locally (referred to as ‘CKD’), HSDM can ‘customise’ a bit to meet its target pricing but if it is CBU, then it may be forced to take more than it would like to. For instance, while there is no sunroof, the Elantra we get has heated seats, a heated steering wheel and heated door mirrors and these are probably part of a package that includes some other items HSDM really wanted. The same sometimes applies to wheel sizes; if you want 20-inch wheels, you must take a sunroof as well as well and that may mean extra cost.

Of course, it’s usually good for the customers as there are more features available. Furthermore, some of the features might not be available if the model is assembled locally as a more ‘basic’ system might be used instead.

There are many convenience features that come with the new Elantra, apart from the keyless entry and pushbutton engine starting/stopping. It doesn’t have the ‘kick the bumper to open’ (our term, not an industry term) feature but the bootlid can still open automatically with the Smart Trunk feature besides pressing the button on the key fob.

Another way of automatic boot opening

The Smart Trunk feature works on the same concept as keyless entry and you must have the key fob (which has the electronic security code) on you for it to work. The boot does not open right away when within close range but after a certain time standing behind the car, then it will open. This is a security measure to avoid unwanted opening.

While the ‘kick the bumper’ method is also convenient, it does mean that a person will momentarily stand on one foot. That might not be good as the person may lose balance, especially if carrying heavy items in both hands. So Hyundai’s idea may offer a safer way of handsfree opening.

Hyundai SmartSense

On the subject of safety, the new Elantra follows the industry trend with integrated safety systems that work together and use common sensors – a camera on the windscreen and a radar in the grille. The Korean carmaker’s system is known as Hyundai SmartSense and consists of 8 active safety systems. These are in addition to the usual ABS, EBD, ESC, Traction Control, etc.

There is Forward Collision Warning with scanning at junctions as well, Lane Keeping, Driver Drowsiness Monitor, Smart Cruise Control Leading Vehicle Departure Alert, Blind Spot Warning, Safe Exit Warning (when opening doors), and Rear Cross Traffic Alert when reversing.

The Smart Cruise Control is adaptive and adjusts the speed to ensure there is a safe gap with the vehicle ahead. The additional feature it has – usually found on more expensive models – is Stop & Go which allows the speed to be adjusted right down to zero. This means that you can operate on cruise control and even follow a car through a toll plaza. If the car stops, the Elantra will also stop and resume moving when the car ahead starts to move off. It’s as good as autonomous driving!

The new Elantra sit on Hyundai’s third-generation vehicle platform and besides weighing less, this new platform also allowed the engineers to lower car’s centre of gravity, which should enhance handling. For passive safety, there’s a strong structure and up to 6 airbags within to provide cushioning during an accident.

Click here to read other news and articles about Hyundai.


Alcraft GT is a British EV concept car with supercar credentials

Alcraft Motor Company, a UK based electric vehicle manufacturer, has revealed details of its creation, called the Alcraft GT.  It’s a shooting-brake styled sports car that is able to function as a 2+2 seater rather than just have the conventional two seats.

Design wise, it looks spectacular from the minimalist wedged shaped styling at the front to the the angular subsection of the rear. It incorporates conventional sports car dimensions that have been re-purposed to fit in with the shooting-brake style body design.

The panoramic roof does provide the cabin with an airy feeling which ties in with the all-glass design theme of the A and B pillars. This allows for a luggage capacity of 500-litres, which is quite impressive for any sports car.

The exposed carbon-fibre B-pillars and roof structure are part of the aesthetic but serve as both a safety cell and reduce overall weight. Though its yet to be proven, this should help protect occupants in a high speed collision.

Carbon-fibre has been used in the body’s construction but the exact amount or total composition has not been revealed. As such, its considered a lightweight car with that has decent weight balance thanks to a T-shaped battery pack that is mounted between and behind the driver and passenger seats.

Alcraft has given the car three electric motors that channel power to all four wheels via its 4WD system. The company’s virtual engineering tests peg total power figures to be about 600bhp and 1139Nm of torque.

Being a 100% electric car, the Alcraft GT will have a range of 483km and be able to sprint from 0-100km/h in a mere 3.5 seconds. This puts it in the same league as automakers like Tesla as well as on par with petrol powered supercars.

Alcraft Motor Company has been founded by businessman David Alcraft. The team includes Charles Morgan, previously of Morgan Motor Company, ex-Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders CEO Christopher Macgowan, designer Matt Humphries who also spent time at Morgan, and ex-Toyota, Daewoo and Michelin senior executive Mark Carbery.

The company has partnered with Delta Motorsports to help develop and builds its new vehicle. The later’s expertise in electric drivetrains and battery systems has seen it involved in projects with established vehicle manufacturers as well as Motorsports teams.

Speaking of the Alcraft GT, Alcraft Motor founder and managing director, David Alcraft said, “We want to build a British car company which brings together traditional skills and high technology for the emerging low carbon car market.”

“We’re about combining great design, outstanding dynamics and the visceral thrill of electric powertrains to create products that are high in performance and desirability but very usable. We hope this will establish a niche For Alcraft Motor in Britain’s renowned specialist low-volume car industry, ” he later added.

Alcraft will partly rely on crowdfunding for its source of income with the rest coming from equity funding. Those involved in the crowdfunding efforts, depending on the investment, will be rewarded in a unique way.

These rewards include VIP days at Silverstone with rides in a development mule for the GT, featuring similar battery, motor and torque vectoring technologies to those which will be in the GT, and exclusive electric bikes by Cyclotricity and wristwatches by Matthew Humphries Design.

There’s no news yet on when the car will be launched, but if you would like to know more, head on over to the company’s website at
https://alcraftmotor.com
.


Bermaz Auto takes over Kia business in Malaysia, with local assembly to commence in 2022.

After
Naza’s swift termination of its involvement with the Kia and Peugeot brands
 during the last quarter of 2020, the market was curious to see who would take over the brands. By December, one part of the question was answered when
Berjaya Auto Alliance Sdn Bhd
 (BAASB)
 was announced as  the new distributor for the French brand. BAASB is a joint venture between Berjaya Corporation and Bermaz Auto, the latter already established as the distributor of Mazda vehicles.

Kia took a bit longer but Bermaz Auto (or BAuto) was a strong candidate and today, that has been officially confirmed with the full details announced at a press conference. A subsidiary of BAuto, Dinamikjaya Motors Sdn Bhd (DMSB), will be the sole distributor while another company – Kia Malaysia Sdn Bhd – has also been formed to manage the assembly of Kia vehicles locally and Kia Motors has majority share in this company.

A fist-bump between Tae-Hun Lee, President & CEO of Kia Asia-Pacific (left) and Dato’ Seri Ben Yeoh, Executive Chairman of Bermaz Auto, after exchanging documents to start off the new relationship between the two companies.

Joint-Venture and Distributorship agreements

Commenting on this development, Tae-Hun Lee, President & CEO of Kia Asia-Pacific, said: “After months of searching for the right partner, Kia is delighted to enter into the Kia JV and Kia Distributorship with Bermaz Auto. With BAuto’s proven capability in successfully building up automotive marques in Malaysia and the Philippines, as well as their automotive manufacturing experience, we believe we have placed the Kia brand in good hands under the capable leadership of its Executive Chairman, Dato’ Seri Ben Yeoh.”

While the matter of continuing its presence in the Malaysian market is settled, Kia is also looking at making its assembly operations Malaysia a hub for supplying vehicles around the region and possibly beyond. In as far as ASEAN is concerned, the Free Trade Area (AFTA) agreement provides for duty free import of vehicles by an ASEAN country of the vehicle is produced within the region. However, the level of ASEAN-sourced content must be at least 40%.

The first two models to be assembled in Malaysia will be the Seltos (above) and the 4th generation of the Carnival MPV which was launched in Korea in August 2020.

Due to current government policies and incentives, vehicles assembled in Malaysia can be sold at more attractive prices in the local market, enabling growth of volumes. However, Dato’ Seri Yeoh said that the locally-assembled models won’t be available for at least 12 to 18 months as that is the time that will be needed to prepare the plant and get suppliers of certain parts.

Local assembly to be at Inokom plant

The plant to be used is Inokom Corporation in Kulim, Kedah which is majority owned by Sime Darby Berhad. The other shareholders are  Bermaz Auto and, interestingly, Hyundai Motor Company (15%). The Korean carmaker was actually an original investor in the plant when it began operations in 1997 and in those early years, Renault also had a share. Both Hyundai and Renault assembled some products that were sold under the Inokom brand then.

In the meantime, DMSB will distribute models that are imported CBU (completely built-up) from Korea. There are some stocks remaining from Naza’s inventory which will be taken over and sold through the Kia network which has 30+ dealers presently.

The Inokom factory in Kedah where vehicles from the BMW, Hyundai, MINI and Mazda brands are currently assembled, with Kia to be added next year.

Three models to be assembled

At least three models will be assembled locally and the first two have already been identified. They will be the Seltos, a small SUV, and the
new generation of the Carnival.
 The third model will be decided later. When exports do begin, possibly in 2023, the first market is likely to be the Philippines as BAuto already has its own subsidiary there handling the Mazda business. Of course, a new operating unit will be set up for Kia, and the same will apply in Malaysia although some of the key figures at the top will be the same for all the brands.

The most notable is Dato’ Seri Ben Yeoh who has decades of experience in the auto industry. He started off in the 1970s at Cycle & Carriage Bintang and was involved in Mercedes-Benz vehicles, and then spent time over the following decades involved in brands such as Toyota, Daihatsu, Proton, Hyundai, Skoda and Mazda. He is therefore familiar with Japanese, European and Korean products and is helping develop the next generation for the auto business.

Dato’ Seri Ben Yeoh (left) and some of the members of his team who have set a good track record of building up the Hyundai and Mazda brands.

He is aware of the legacy issues relating to Kia vehicles and said that DMSB will examine all past promises to customers and see how to best move forward with existing owners. Given the track record shown in building up the Mazda brand in Malaysia, many expect that he will put a shine on the Kia brand in due course. He said that he is also pleased that Kia Motors has a share in the joint-venture as this demonstrates that strong commitment and support for the business.

Dato’ Wong Kin Foo, who will head the Kia business, has previously been in a company that also handled Mazda, Peugeot and Kia. This was during the 1990s when Cycle & Carriage Bintang was the distributor for the brands. He will also be heading the team at BAASB which handles Peugeot and is a director of Bermaz Motor which handles Mazda.

The Inokom plant is very familiar to the BAuto leadership, some of whom were in its management in its earliest days. They also began local assembly of Hyundai models during the days when Hyumal was the distributor and 10 years ago, they returned to being involved at the plant when local assembled of Mazda vehicles began again. Soon, they will be planning for the assembly of the Seltos and Carnival.

At the beginning of this year, Kia introduced its new brand logo and also announced a bold transformation strategy.

Kia’s bold transformation underway

The timing for BAuto to associate itself with Kia is also good, as it was when the company took over the Mazda franchise in 2008 from Cycle & Carriage Bintang. At that time, Mazda was starting with to introduce a completely refreshed range of models, all of which would prove highly appealing to customers and boost sales quickly. Likewise, Kia started this year with the unveiling of a
new corporate logo
 which also marked the start of a bold transformation which will see the revamping of nearly all facets of its business to establish a leadership position in the future mobility industry.

The Korean carmaker’s long-term business strategy, which has the ambition to take a leading position in the global car market, will include  popularizing electric vehicles. A
global EV business strategy
 aims to put the brand in a leadership position and to achieve this, Kia will launch a diverse range of dedicated BEVs (Battery Electric Vehicles). “The next generation products are sustainable, focusing on high electrification, active safety, connectivity with many autonomous features and are highly human-centric,” observed Dato’ Seri Yeoh.

Kia will be focussing more and more on electrically-powered vehicles and aims to become a global leader in the field.

Dato’ Seri Yeoh said that while it is evident that Kia is strongly focusing on EVs, such vehicles may not be offered so soon in Malaysia. He has always been pragmatic in his approach to business and he believes that consumer acceptance needs to be stronger. That is the same sentiment that other companies have as the government is not pro-active in the area of electric vehicles. While governments in neighbouring countries have announced and even implemented sound policies and incentives that are attractive and give carmakers confidence to invest, Malaysia is still not doing the same.

Calling existing Kia owners

In the meantime, DMSB, as the new distributors, would like all existing owners of Kia vehicles in Malaysia to provide their details so that they can be registered in the database. This is especially important for those whose vehicles are still under warranty. It is almost certain that as a responsible manufacturer, Kia will honour whatever warranties have been given with their vehicles sold previously but DMSB will need owners to provide information. Furthermore, being registered in DMSB’s database means that any recalls or other notifications will be communicated to them. To register details, visit this website:
Kia Customers’ Information Update
.

Kia to move away from traditional manufacturing-driven business model


Limited units of customised Aston Martin DB11 V8 available in Malaysia

Visit
www.bhpetrol.com.my
 to know more about promotions at BHPetromart.

Aston Martin Kuala Lumpur has imported a limited number of customized units of the Aston Martin DB11 V8 Coupe. These exclusive cars have a number of DB11 Option Packs such as the Exterior Black Pack and Technology Pack. There is also a Luxury Pack which consists of Nexus Quilting with Celestial Perforation.

Other optional items include red-painted brake calipers, seatbelts in a Spice Red colour, headrests with embroidered Aston Martin Wings, Jewellery Dark Chrome, 20-inch Y Spoke Forged Gloss Black Diamond –Turned wheels and 2×2 Carbonfibre Twill trim Inlay.

503 bhp V8 engine

The DB11 V8 is powered by a 503 bhp/675 Nm V8 engine which can take the car from 0 to 100 km/h within a claimed time of 4 seconds and on to a top speed of 301 km/h. Needless to say the V8 is a lighter and more compact unit than having a V12, with savings of 115 kgs to keep the kerb weight to 1760 kgs.

Instantly recognisable, the DB11’s design with classic proportions has a form that develops organically from nose to tail. The specifications are inspired by the iconic and timeless design from Aston Martin’s heritage. Marrying beautiful materials and exquisite craftsmanship, this specification showcases traditional techniques such as ornate brogued leather.

With the iconic exterior paint finish – Magnetic Silver – the car expresses Aston Martin’s renowned quality and timeless style. The use of carbonfibre trim inlay and exterior black pack enhances the sporting character of the DB11.

Full factory warranty and aftersales support

The DB11 V8 Coupe comes with a 3-year factory warranty with 24 months complimentary Aston Martin Extended Warranty and 5-year scheduled servicing with labour costs covered. Aston Martin Kuala Lumpur has a dedicated service centre to provide full aftersales support for owners.

The DB11 V8 is priced from RM778,000, while DB11 V8 with Magnetic Silver costs another RM71,200, both prices excluding duties and taxes. If you buy before June 30, 2021, you will be able to save some money with the exemption of 50% of sales tax for CBU models.

Intrepid Aura – for those who want a more exclusive Aston Martin DBX


The Secret of Isuzu’s Success in Malaysia

2020 was undoubtedly a challenging year for the automotive industry, not just in Malaysia but worldwide. The COVID-19 pandemic impacted businesses as restrictions on movements not only affected production of vehicles but sales also slowed down as customers could not visit showrooms. Nevertheless, while the first half of the year saw a slowdown, the second half of 2020 made up for the lost sales. New vehicle sales in the Malaysian market closed at 529,434 units, 12% lower than 2019 but well past the forecast of 470,000 made by the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA).

In fact, some companies did even better in 2020 compared to the year before, and Isuzu Malaysia was one of them. While the brand continued its dominance in the commercial vehicle market for the 11th consecutive year, a large contribution came from the new D-MAX pick-up truck which had its first full year of sales (it was officially launched in Malaysia in September 2019).

We talked to Masayuki Suzuki, Chief Operating Officer of Isuzu Malaysia, to get insights into the company’s impressive performance in 2020, in spite of the difficult conditions and limitations due to the Movement Control Order (MCO).

Extracts from the interview:

Congratulations on another successful year for Isuzu Malaysia! How was it possible to maintain and even improve the business performance in spite of such tough conditions brought on by the pandemic?

Thank you! Yes, Isuzu Malaysia did remarkably well in 2020 with a total number of 8,820 vehicles delivered to our customers nationwide. We were happy to maintain our leading position in the light commercial vehicle segment for the 11th consecutive year but what helped to push our overall numbers up was the D-MAX which had its first full year of sales.

The latest D-MAX range has up to 11 variants to choose from, meeting different needs and budgets.

 How many units of the D-MAX were sold and why was it so popular?

We sold 4,031 units, which was around 4% higher than the number sold in 2019. Of course, in  2019, we had a mixture of sales of the previous generation as well as, from September, the all-new model with the 1.9-litre turbodiesel RZ4E engine. The fact that our volume of D-MAX sales rose confirms that the new engine size is acceptable to customers and even moved the position of the model up one place in the pick-up truck segment in Malaysia.

That’s impressive! Certainly, it was a bold move for Isuzu Malaysia to introduce an engine with a smaller displacement as pick-ups have usually used big engines. Why did Isuzu go for a smaller engine when it had the capable and proven 2.5-litre engine?

Isuzu, as you know, has much experience in engines and the reliability, durability and fuel efficiency of our engines has firmly established the brand in many countries, including Malaysia. Traditionally, light commercial vehicles and pick-up trucks have used bigger engines because they are heavier and they also carry heavy loads. The simple solution before has therefore been to just install a big engine which would provide sufficient power and torque.

However, with the beginning of the 21st century, the need to conserve resources and also reduce pollution has been clear. While there is now a trend towards electrification of powertrains, internal combustion engines will still be around for some time and therefore, it was necessary to find new solutions to address the issues. This led the industry to downsize engines and the benefits were many – reduced weight, reduced size, lower emissions, better fuel efficiency and in countries like Malaysia, lower annual roadtax (in Peninsular, the roadtax for the 1.9-litre engine is 52% lower compared to the 2.5-litre engine).

Of course, a smaller displacement should mean less power is developed and that was true in the past. Today, there are many new technologies which our engineers used and with these advanced technologies, the new engine has 10% more power, 9.4% more torque and lower carbon dioxide emissions compared to the 2.5-litre engine. Not surprisingly, it also has as much as 19% better fuel consumption figures.

Isuzu RZ4E 1.9-litre DDi Blue Power turbodiesel engine

What sort of technologies are used in this new RZ4E engine that have made it possible to achieve such impressive improvements?

There are so many and it is the combination of all the technologies that has led to the great achievement for an engine of such a size. Our engineers used Isuzu’s original analytical technology of diesel combustion and designed the pistons and combustion chambers to burn the fuel and air more completely, extracting every bit of energy available. They also worked hard to reduce internal friction levels and these much lower levels increase performance while also enhancing fuel efficiency.

Incidentally, the engine has 4 valves per cylinder so breathing is efficient but just as importantly, fuel delivery is optimised with the high-pressure injection system. The high pressure sends in fuel that is fully atomised and that makes combustion very efficient, so there is no wastage. Using a turbocharger is not new and has been a solution to boosting output for decades. However, the turbocharger installed in the RZ4E engine has variable geometry vanes. This variability gives better engine flexibility with stronger response, even at the lower rpm range. It is no longer necessary to use a large turbocharger for better boost as the variable vanes can adjust the pressures according to operating conditions. This means that the engine can deliver its best performance at all times.

I should add that we also developed a new 6-speed transmission that gives a higher drive force compared to the transmission used before. The new unit comes with two overdrive gears for fifth and sixth – benefitting fuel economy – and a ‘Gear Change Control Learning’ function to adapt its performance to the driving style.

Isuzu 1.9-litre DDi Blue Power turbodiesel engine won an award from Carlist.My. It was received by the CEO of Isuzu Malaysia, Koji Nakamura (left) and COO of Isuzu Malaysia, Masayuki Suzuki (right).

The engine sounds very advanced but what about reliability? Doesn’t a smaller engine have to work harder and that can affect its service life?

As I mentioned earlier, our D-MAX has been well known for reliability and durability, making it one of the more popular pick-up trucks in the region. For years, the dependability of Isuzu engines has meant fleet operators do not have to worry about downtime in the service centre to carry out repairs or change parts. This was something our engineers ensured would be the same with the new engine. In fact, the extensive testing done in extreme conditions showed that the new engine will have better service life, which means reduced cost of ownership and maintenance in the long run.

The Isuzu Blue Power turbodiesel powertrain as well as the rest of the latest D-MAX have been engineered for the most extreme conditions. This capability was proven when standard vehicles (except for safety equipment) completed the gruelling Borneo Safari last year.

The cast iron engine block, for example, is tougher with not only 13% more stiffness than the 2.5-litre engine but also more wear-resistant, thanks to induction hardening. The timing chain is made of steel, and that will last a long time. The valves also used Hydraulic Valve Lash Adjusters to maintain their settings constantly so that operation is kept at optimum.

Overall, therefore, I am confident that the new 1.9-litre engine is a better engine than what we have offered before – with no drawbacks because of its small size. It is also properly tuned for Malaysian fuel quality, including biodiesel (B20 compliant).

What have your customers said about the new D-MAX?

Our products have fundamentally enjoyed a strong appeal in difficult times. There are many factors that customers have always appreciated, such as good value, low operating cost, high dependability and good all-round capabilities. With the new D-MAX, we have added new technologies that enhance all those aspects.

Those who have bought the new D-MAX have been surprised by how it performs. Some reported that it feels quieter and smoother and that is not their imagination. The engine has actually been engineered to run more smoothly and quietly. Driveability is also noticeably better, the feedback tells us, and this is partly due to the new Vehicle Launch Assist Control that increases engine revs when moving off.

Isuzu D-MAX powered by the 1.9-litre DDi Blue Power turbodiesel engine encountered no difficulties travelling over the Titiwangsa mountain range with a full load on board.

The strength of the D-MAX does not need proving any more but as this model has a smaller engine, we decided to demonstrate its capability once again. We did this by loading a Single Cab model to its maximum permissible capacity of a ton and took it over some of the highest accessible hills along the Titiwangsa Mountain Range. It performed well and in total, over 1,000 kms were clocked – and two bars of fuel still remained in the tank at the finish!

By the way, we also provided the latest D-MAX for the Borneo Safari last year. Isuzu Malaysia has been a major sponsor and supplier of official vehicles for this tough off-road event for 13 years. Naturally, with the introduction of the D-MAX with its new 1.9-litre engine, we saw an opportunity to demonstrate its capabilities and prove that it can do equally well. It completed the event which had heavily-modified off-road vehicles and certainly was an eye-opener for many people!

Who are the people who buy the D-MAX? Are they mostly bought for private use or for workhorse functions?

In the past – and I am talking about before the 2000s – pick-up trucks were mainly used for commercial purposes to transport goods in rough terrain. That changed as the vehicles became more comfortable with many convenience features added. So the buyer profiles changed from commercial vehicle operators to include private owners as well. I feel it is quite an achievement that one vehicle type can satisfy both types of customers as it obviously ticks all the right boxes!

The D-MAX is a versatile vehicle for private use as well as for tough workhorse duties.

Pick-up trucks have come a long way from their workhorse days and while they do offer very tough and durable characteristics, the level of development also makes them more appealing to a mass market through their sophistication, comfort features and safety.

Besides the 1.9-litre engine, we also offer the 3-litre turbodiesel engine which is required by some customers in East Malaysia. However, it is clear that most people appreciate all the benefits of the smaller engine as it accounted for 85% of D-MAX sales last year. We also saw a spike in sales of our workhorse models such as the Single Cab and low-rider variants.

The Stealth Edition of the D-MAX was a limited edition model and sold out within 2 months of being introduced.

Continuing the tradition of offering limited edition versions, we developed a Stealth Edition for the D-MAX and it was a hit. Within two months of its launch in August 2020, all units were sold out. Incidentally, we assemble the D-MAX at our own plant in Pekan, Pahang.

How do you see the market in 2021? Will Isuzu Malaysia be launching new models or just focus on consolidating its position as conditions hopefully get better?

The Malaysian Automotive Association is optimistic about the market improving and forecasts an 18% increase in the volume of commercial vehicle and pick-up sales. It is still early to say how the market will be but with the good news that the vaccine for COVID-19 is available in Malaysia, we expect that consumer confidence will grow and with it, new vehicle sales will also go up.

Isuzu dealership in Taiping, Perak.

We are always looking at giving customers more variety to choose from, and there are some new models under consideration. At the same time, we will continue to strengthen our network which is especially important to our commercial customers. We will make sure that Isuzu owners are never far from an Isuzu dealership where they can get support and replacement parts.

Visit
www.isuzu.net.my
 to know more about the D-MAX and other Isuzu products and services available in Malaysia.