All posts by Amirul Mukminin

Life’s too short to argue about which car is the best. Drive whatever you like, as long as you’re happy with it.
NEWS

BMW M4 CS treads a fine line between usability and performance

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The G82 BMW M4 range is now complete with the arrival of a new Competition Sport variant or more fondly known as the CS.

Positioned between the M4 Competition and the extreme M4 CSL, the M4 CS is designed with specific tuning that balances track-ready performance with every day driving pleasure.

Or in other words, it is not unlike the G80 M3 CS introduced last year. Like that car, this coupe is powered by the same 3.0-litre twin-turbo inline-six engine that produces a whopping 550 PS and 650 Nm.

With an 8-speed Steptronic transmission driving all wheels via the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system, the M4 CS is capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds and reaching a top speed of 302 km/h.

In addition to the engine, the impressive performance of this car is also contributed to by the extensive weight saving solutions carried out by BMW.

Among the measures taken is the use of components made from carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) that includes the roof, bonnet, front splitter, front air intakes, side mirror housings, rear diffuser and Gurney-style rear spoiler.

Inside, the lightweight material is also extensively used and can be seen on the center console, paddle shifters, and M Carbon bucket seats.

Additionally, the exhaust system on the M4 CS is more than 4 kg lighter, thanks to the use of a titanium rear silencer.

All in all, lightweight design measures bring the car’s weight down by around 20 kg compared to the M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive.

In the handling department, the car gets the M adaptive suspension system and electromechanical M Servotronic steering with variable ratio. For sharper handling, customers can opt for an M front end strut brace.

As for the brakes, it uses M Compound rotors, which can be upgraded to carbon ceramic units. The car rolls on forged M light-alloy wheels in an exclusive V-spoke design, measuring 19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the back, along with track tyres as standard.

Alternatively, customers can specify ultra track tyres or high-performance tyres. The latter is suitable for day-to-day driving and come in the same sizes as a no-cost option.

NEWS

2024 Volkswagen California revelead – bigger, better than before

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VOLKSWAGEN Commercial Vehicles has officially pulled the covers off the seventh-generation California for the European market.

It is based on the long wheelbase version of the Multivan and will be offered in five versions – Beach, Beach Tour, Beach Camper, Coast, and Ocean – when it goes on sale in June.

According to Volkswagen, every area of the California has been has redesigned, making it more spacious, smarter, more sophisticated, more versatile and more sustainable.

For example, the camper van now comes with two sliding doors as standard, as well as a pop-up roof.

When the pop-up roof is closed, the interior height is 1,297 mm and when it is open, the height increases to 2,108 mm.

Customers can also opt for an awning that can be fitted on left or right side of the vehicle to shield against rain or too much sun.

Inside, the rear bench seat has been replaced by individual seats, allowing customers to store their expensive bikes inside. The seats can also be positioned individually according to personal preferences.

From the California Beach Tour and above, the backrests of the outer seats can also be folded all the way back to form a flat bed surface.

In addition, practical drawers are located under all individual seats as well as in the driver and front passenger seats. There’s also a large number of 45-watt USB-C ports to ensure that mobile devices never run out of power.

The Beach Camper is also equipped with a permanent mini-kitchen at the rear, while the Coast and Ocean each get a versatile kitchennette and a pull-out refrigerator in the style of the Grand California.

The California is built on the MQB platform and will be offered with several powertrain options, including a four-cylinder TDI with 150 PS and a four-cylinder TSI with 204 PS, both are front-wheel drive.

It will also be available as a plug-in hybrid called the eDrive that boasts a total system output of 245 PS and 4Motion all-wheel-drive system.

The platform also allows a wide range of driver assist systems including Travel Assist, which offers semi-automated driving assistance and thus increases long-distance driving comfort.

NEWS

2024 Isuzu D-Max facelift now in Malaysia – new looks and tech, from RM99k

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THE facelifted version of the third generation Isuzu D-Max has been officially launched in Malaysia, bringing fresher looks and a host of new features and equipment.

The lineup of the pickup truck remains unchanged, comprising five variants as follows:

  • X-Terrain 3.0L 4X4 AT
  • Premium 1.9L 4X4 AT & 3.0L 4X4 AT
  • Auto Plus 1.9L 4X2 AT
  • Standard 1.9L 4X4 MT & 1.9L 4X4 AT
  • Single Cab 1.9L 4X4 MT & 3.0L 4X4 AT

Pricing starts from RM98,949.20 for the 1.9-litre Single Cab while the flagship X-Terrain is priced at RM157,938.40 on-the-road without insurance in Peninsular Malaysia.

 

The most noticeable changes in design include sharper Bi-LED headlights, bigger grille with a new honeycomb insert, and redesigned fog lamp housings. The turning signals are now integrated with the LED daytime running lights.

At the rear, you’ll spot newly designed taillights and a new tailgate that now includes a new handle with a keyhole, enabling the tailgate to be locked should a canopy or cover be fitted.

Wheels come in 18-inch size, in Tough Style design for the X-Terrain and Sporty Style design for the Premium. They are wrapped in 265/60 R18 all-terrain tyres.

As for exterior colours, Valencia Orange is replaced with the new Namibu Orange Mica, while Islay Grey, Onyx Black, and Dolomite White Pearl colors are still available.

Inside, the X-Terrain variant gains several new features seen usually in high-end SUVs. For example, the driver is greeted with welcome lights, door sill and footwell illumination upon opening the door.

The luxurious feel is enhanced further with leather upholstery on the seats and steering wheel, along with a Miura pattern on the door panels. Isuzu says Miura is inspired by a classic Japanese origami-inspired paralellogram design.

Additionally, the D-Max now comes equipped with a 10-inch touchscreen that provides access to wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a reverse camera, and Around View Monitor.

The pickup truck also comes with a 7-inch multi-info display, USB-C charging port, wireless charger, and an 8-speaker surround sound system.

The safety system is enhanced through the use of a fourth-generation stereo camera with a wider 120-degree field of view. The camera is also capable of increasing its forward detection distance from 120 meters to 150 meters.

Another new update is the Rear Cross Traffic Brake system. When the vehicle detects an on-coming vehicle while reversing, an audible and visual signal is given. It will proceed to apply the brakes should an imminent collision be anticipated.

The D-Max’s off-roading prowess is also enhanced with the new Rough Terrain Mode, which is standard on all Double Cab 4X4 models. The is able to detect the level of grip each wheel has and apportion the power from a spinning wheel to the wheel that has most grip. It can be used in all transmission modes – 2H, 4H or 4L.

The engine lineup remains unchanged. Like before, there’s the 4JJ3-TCX 3.0-litre turbo-diesel inline-four, generating 190 PS and 450 Nm, and the RZ4E-TC 1.9-litre inline-four unit making 150 PS and 350 Nm.

NEWS

Pro-Net expands charging network, now has 36 bays in 9 states

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In response to the growing demand for New Energy Vehicles (NEVs), Pro-Net has announced the expansion of its charging infrastructure network.

Since the introduction of a DC Charger at Proton’s headquarters in October last year, Pro-Net has taken proactive steps to expand the charging infrastructure across its Proton Edar dealerships.

Collaborating with partner Gentari, the organisation has deployed six DC chargers, totaling 12 charging bays, with each bay equipped with two nozzles. This rollout includes 50 kW, 100 kW, and 120 kW chargers, as well as three 60 kW chargers.

This is in addition to the chargers at existing smart dealerships, which include 5 DC chargers and 13 AC chargers, making it a total of 22 charging bays across Peninsular Malaysia.

Pro-Net said it has imminent plans to introduce additional charging infrastructure as part of its dealership expansion network in Sabah.

Currently, over 70% of public charging points are accessible through the Hello smart App, thanks to strategic partnerships with industry leaders such as chargEV, JomCharge, and Gentari.

The app allows users to effortlessly access the charging map from Proton Edar and Smart Malaysia dealerships.

NEWS

Mercedes-Benz C350e official price confirmed – RM338,888

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MERCEDES-Benz Malaysia has announced the official pricing for the Mercedes-Benz C350e, which was first previewed in February.

Locally assembled in Pekan, Pahang, the C350e is priced at RM338,888 on-the-road excluding insurance. This is lower compared to the estimated price reported earlier, which was RM355,000.

The new variant comes as a replacement of the C300 AMG Line that was launched alongside the C200 Avantgarde back in 2022.

Powering the C350e is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that produces 204 hp at 6,100 rpm and 320 Nm from 2,000 to 4,000 rpm.

It is paired with an electric motor generating 95 kW and 440 Nm, providing the sedan with a total output of 313 hp and 550 Nm.

With a 9G-Tronic transmission driving the rear wheels, the C350e can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds and hit a maximum speed of 245 km/h.

An in-house developed battery with a capacity of 25.4 kWh offers an electric range of up to 117 km. The maximum speed in this mode is 140 km/h. The battery takes two hours to fully charge using an 11 kW AC charger.

Kit-wise, the C350e comes with the AMG Line styling package, 18-inch AMG light alloy wheels, and the Night Package, which includes glossy black elements such as the louvre of the radiator shell, trim moulding in the AMG front apron, beltline trim strip and window surround, and exterior mirror housings.

This variant also comes standard with Digital Light with Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus, a panoramic sunroof, and ambient lighting.

The interior is adorned with AMG Line trim, featuring metal structure trim elements, a Nappa leather-wrapped sport steering wheel, AMG floor mats, and sport seats with Artico leather upholstery in black.

The MBUX infotainment system consists of a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, an 11.9-inch touchscreen, which is slightly tilted towards the driver by six degrees, as well as a wireless charger.

On the safety front, the car comes with a 360-degree camera, Blind Spot Assist, Active Brake Assist, Active Parking Assist with Parktronic, Guard 360°, and Pedestrian Protection.

NEWS

2024 Aston Martin Vantage arrives in Malaysia with RM2.37 million price tag

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JUST months after its global debut, the 2024 Aston Martin Vantage is now launched for the Malaysian market, with a starting price of RM2,370,000 excluding options and customisation.

Similar to its predecessor, Mercedes-AMG’s 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 mill makes its way into the new Vantage, but thanks to various upgrades, it now churns out 665 PS and 800 Nm.

The substantial increase (155 PS and 115 Nm to be exact) in output was achieved through the adoption of modified cam profiles, optimised compression ratios, larger turbos, and increased cooling.

With the ZF eight-speed automatic transmission driving the rear wheels, the Vantage accelarates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds before reaching a top speed of 325 km/h.

The Vantage’s bonded aluminium structure is now stiffer and more engaging thanks to additional underbody stiffening components, and optimised front body cross member and front engine cross brace.

Improved mounting stiffness for the dampers on both end makes the car more precise, while new intelligent adaptive dampers offer immense range of control and speed of response t0 sharper its dynamics.

The Vantage features 21-inch forged alloy five-spoke wheels as standard, wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 tyres measuring 275/35 R21 (103Y) front and 325/30 R21 (108Y) rear.

Hidden behind the wheels are 400 mm front and 360 mm rear cast iron disc brakes. Buyers can upgrade these to Carbon Ceramic Brakes (CCB) that offer reduced brake fade at temperatures of up to 800 °C, alongside a reduction of 27 kg in unsprung weight.

Inside, the interior has been fully redesigned with a digital-forward cockpit as the centrepiece. Standard features include a 10.25-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and a standard 390W 11-speaker audio system.

Audiophiles can opt for the optional Bowers & Wilkins 1,170W audio system with 15 speakers, including 3D headline speakers and a subwoofer.

According to Aston Martin Kuala Lumpur, the retail price includes a three-year factory warranty, which customers can opt to extend to enjoy up to 20 years of coverage.

 

NEWS

Proton sales up 17.1% in April as S70 builds momentum

PROTON has announced its sales performance for April 2023, which saw the national car manufacturer recording sales of 11,025 units for the domestic and export markets.

The figure represents a 17.1% increase compared to the 9,415 units achieved in April last year.

Sales for the first four months of 2024 have also increased to 50,175 units, higher than the 49,702 units sold from January to April 2023.

Total industry volume (TIV) for the Malaysian automotive market meanwhile also grew for the same period to an estimated 59,100 units and a cumulative total of 261,345 units for the year.

Proton’s market share is estimated at 18.7% in April alone while year-to-date market share is forecast to be at 19.2%, maintaining its second position in the overall national automotive sales ranking.

According to national automaker, the X50 years, regained the top spot for B-segment SUVs despite growing competition from the market with 1,642 units sold in April.

Meanwhile, the S70 continues to lead the C-segment sedan sales with 1,635 units sold last month, resulting in cumulative sales of 7,463 units for 2024.

The Saga remains Proton’s best-selling model, recording sales of 5,031 units in April, with year-to-date sales up 8.8% to 23,278 units.

The X70 came in at 552 units, while the Persona and X90 recorded sales of 1,429 units and 312 units, respectively. Iriz added 424 units to its April sales volume, making the total sales to date1,958 units.

“The slowdown in automotive sales in April, where TIV shrank by 16.8% compared to March 2024, can be attributed to the long holiday period as OEMs, dealerships and other members of the local automotive ecosystem took time off to celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri,” said Roslan Abdullah, Chief Executive Officer of Proton Edar.

Year to date, Proton export sales volume has surged 38.5% to 835 units as compared to 603 units registered in the same period last year.

Leading the export sales chart is the Saga with 427 units sold year-to-date, an increase of 16% from 368 units from the same period last year. The X50 came in second with 176 units sold while the S70 recorded 89 units in Brunei, its only export market.

NEWS

Auto China 2024: Chery Tiggo 9 PHEV shown, to launch in Q4 this year

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BESIDES the Omoda 7, Chery also introduced its flagship SUV model, the Tiggo 9 PHEV, at the Auto China 2024.

Looks-wise, the Tiggo 9 PHEV is evidently not a huge departure to h0w the Tiggo 8 Pro looks like, but as a flagship model in its lineup, it has a bigger footprint.

It measures 4,810 mm in length, 1,925 mm in width, 1,741 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,770 mm, making it 88 mm longer, 65 mm wider, and 36 mm higher than the Tiggo 8 Pro.

There are also some design elements that help the Tiggo 9 PHEV stand out including the Saturn Ring hexagon grille, dynamic body lines, and 20-inch multi-spoke wheels.

Inside, the unit showcased in Beijing features two-tone cream and blue leather upholstery, as well as 3D stitching on the seats. It is equipped with a digital instrument panel and a 15.6-inch HD 2.5K touch display.

The ‘heart’ of the Tiggo 9 PHEV is the 2.0-litre turbo engine pumping out 235 hp and 385 Nm, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The engine is combined with a 3DHT electric motor that provides an additional 221 hp.

The ICE-electric motor combo results in a fuel consumption level of around 5.2 liters per 100 km based on the WLTC cycle and a driving range of up to 1,400 km.

In addition to the PHEV, the Tiggo 9 will also have a petrol variant, but details regarding this variant have not yet been announced. Both will be launched in the fourth quarter of this year.

NEWS

Direct Lending, Tan Chong introduce Shariah-compliant auto service financing plan

DIRECT Lending recently nnounced its partnership with Tan Chong Motor Holdings Berhad (Tan Chong), to introduce a Shariah-compliant, fully digital auto service financing plan at their Nissan service centres nationwide.

Through this partnership, Tan Chong customers can now have their financial eligibility checked and documents validated via the online platform with immediate financing secured compared to traditional financing options.

This will further facilitate peace of mind for car owners with increased flexibility in managing their car service and repair expenses with a repayment period of up to 12 months.

Applicants can swiftly secure financing by filling in their details, submitting their identification card along with the last three months’ bank statements, and finalising the process by making the first payment, setting up monthly payments and signing the financing agreement – all conducted digitally via smartphone.

To kick-start this initiative, Direct Lending services will be made available at 10 selected Tan Chong’s Nissan service centres. This facility will eventually be expanded nationwide.

Hui Yik Seong, Founder of Direct Lending said the partnership aims to alleviate the financial burden of vehicle maintenance — worn or damaged components can be detrimental to the car’s performance, putting drivers, passengers and other road users at risk.

“We hope that by presenting a more inclusive and user-friendly option for Malaysians, we will enhance their overall vehicle ownership journey and ensure a safer driving experience for all,” he said.

“The safety of our customers is our highest priority. By partnering with Direct Lending, we can ensure that our customers have the financial flexibility to maintain their vehicles in optimal condition, hence contributing to a safer drive,” said Daniel Ho Wai Ming, Group Chief Executive Officer of Tan Chong.

Direct Lending’s car service instalment plan is a Shariah-compliant financing facility fully endorsed by Amanie Advisors, a leading global Islamic Finance Advisory firm, ensuring its accessibility to all. As of 2023, the company has conducted over 130,000 financing eligibility evaluations.

NEWS

Mitsubishi Xpander retains title as Malaysia’s top non-national MPV

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MITSUBISHI Motors Malaysia (MMM) announced that the Mitsubishi Xpander has retained its position as the country’s foremost non-national MPV.

The seven-seater recorded sales of 11,384 units in Financial Year 2023 (April 2023 – March 2024).

Shinya Ikeda, CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia says achievement is a testament to the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality vehicles that resonate with the needs and preferences of Malaysian customers.

“The No. 1 spot also highlights that the Xpander is the preferred choice among Malaysian families seeking a versatile MPV,” he added.

Separately, the Triton sold 8,636 units in FY23 and maintained the top two spot in the pick-up truck segment.

“Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia is the top three non-national brand in Malaysia. Looking ahead to 2024, Mitsubishi Motors is continuously initiating changes for the better and an ownership experience of the highest standards,” Ikeda said.

NEWS

Lambretta arrives in Malaysia, to launch X250 and G350 scooters

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LAMBRETTA, a well-known classic scooter brand, has announced its entry into the Malaysian market.

To start, Lambretta will be opening five official stores located strategically across the country including Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, Penang and Kuching. It will also soon launch two new models, namely the X250 and G350.

Founded in 1947, Lambretta drew significant inspiration from the olive green Cushman scooters, which had seen widespread use in Italy during the war.

The vision behind the brand was to craft a vehicle that offered ease of driving, suited both men and women, and allowed passengers to travel without compromising their attire.

In its early iterations, Lambretta boasted a unique suspension system with independent front and rear wheels, complemented by an innovative two-stroke engine.

What truly set it apart, however, was the enclosed engine and streamlined bodywork, distinguishing it from conventional motorcycles.

Today, Lambretta remains emblematic of the Mod subculture, epitomisng the scooter as the quintessential Mod vehicle and embodying the distinctive Italian-inspired style of that era.

The new era of Lambretta scooters seamlessly blends elegance, functionality, and timeless aesthetics. With a classic style, the new Lambrettas pay homage to its historic roots while seamlessly blending timeless aesthetics with contemporary innovation.

It also showcases a signature unique monocoque architecture, providing an unbroken line of sophistication and strength that runs through every curve and contour. The new models exude elegance and exclusivity, representing the zenith of Lambretta’s scooter lineage.

NEWS

Kia EV9 launched in Malaysia – two GT-Line variants, priced from RM370k

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The official distributor of Kia, Dinamikjaya Motors, has launched its third electric vehicle for the Malaysian market, the Kia EV9.

The fully electric SUV is available in two variants, namely the GT-Line AWD 6-seater and the GT-Line AWD 7-seater, priced at RM369,668 and RM374,668, respectively.

Both variants feature a twin electric motor configuration producing a total system output 380 hp and 700 Nm, allowing it to reach a maximum speed of 200 km/h.

The battery specifications are also the same, with both variatns utilising a 99.8 kWh lithium-ion battery that offers a driving range of up to 505 km on a full charge.

For charging, the EV9 is equipped with DC fast charging that can handle up to 350 kW, enabling the battery to be charged from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes. It also supports 11 kW AC charging, which requires 10.5 hours for a full charge.

The EV9 is the second Kia model built using the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) after the EV6. It measures 5,015 mm in length, 1,980 mm in width, 1,780 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,100 mm.

Its exterior design is highlighted by the Digital Tiger Face, featuring the Digital Pattern Lighting Grille, vertical LED headlights with two clusters of small cube lamps, and Star Map daytime running lights at the rear. Both variants come with 21-inch wheels.

Inside, there is a floating panoramic dashboard housing two 12.3-inch screens and an additional 5-inch segment display that gives the driver access to all vehicle functionalities. There are also two small displays on the door panels that display video feed from the exterior cameras.

Other features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless charging, USB-C charging ports in the front, middle, and rear, ambient lighting, and a Meridian audio system with 14 speakers.

Thanks to the flexible Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU) charging system, the EV9 also has Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, supplying up to 3.6 kWh of power to charge various electronic devices.

There’s also Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), consisting features such as High Beam Assist (HBA), Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist (PCA), Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA), Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Assist (RCCA), Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Driver Attention Warning (DAW), Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA2), Lane Following Assist (LFA2), and Smart Cruise Control (SCC).

The EV9 is fully imported from South Korea and is available in five colours – Ocean Blue, Snow White Pearl, Pebble Grey, Aurora Black Pearl, and Iceberg Green. It comes with a manufacturer’s warranty for five years/150,000 km and a battery warranty for eight years/160,000 km.

NEWS

BMW iX3 Final Edition launched in Malaysia – RM300k

BMW Malaysia recently unveiled the new BMW iX3 Final Edition, which comes with additional M Performance equipment complementing the M Sport package.

The automaker’s latest offering is built upon the Impressive trim and adds a host of M Performance equipment as standard, consisting of the carbon mirror caps, carbon fibre door sills, rear spoiler, as well as the Adaptive M suspension.

According to BMW, the newly equipped Adaptive M suspension with lifetime upgrade allows the driver to select between the standard comfortable setting or switch to Sport Mode for sportier handling.

The iX3 Final Edition will continue to feature standard equipment such as the 20-inch M aerodynamic wheels 890 M Bicolour, BMW Laserlight and panaromic glass roof.

Inside, there’s automatic air conditioning with three-zone control, electric sport seats for driver and front passenger, Harman Kardon surround sound system, head-up display and acoustic glazing.

Safety-wise, the electric crossover is equipped with Driving Assistant Professional and Parking Assistant Plus as standard.

Powering the rear wheels of the iX3 Final Edition is an electric motor that generates up to 286 hp (210 kW) and a peak torque of 400 Nm, which enables a century sprint of 6.8 second.

Thanks to a high-voltage battery with a gross capacity of 80 kWh, it can cover a distance of 461 km (WLTP) in one full charge, while recording energy consumptions of as low as 18.5 kWh per 100 km of travel.

The iX3 Final Edition is available in six exterior colours, namely M Carbon Black Metallic, Cashmere Silver, Sophisto Grey, Mineral White, Phytonic Blue and Piemont Red.

Interior upholstery is available in either Leather Vernasca Mocha with Décor Stitching or Leather Vernasca Black with Blue Contrast Stitching.

Pricing starts from RM299,800. Customers can opt for the additional BMW Service & Repair Inclusive consisting of the five-year extended warranty and service package for RM19,800.

NEWS

Chery Omoda 7 set for global launch in 2025

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CHERY has introduced its second global model, the Omoda 7, at its headquarters in Wuhu, located approximately 1,100 km from Beijing where the Auto China 2024 was held.

Much like the Omoda 5, the Omoda 7 is also an SUV, and according to Chery, it will be launched in the market early next year.

In terms of size, the Omoda 7 has a larger footprint than the Omoda 5, with a length of 4,621 mm, width of 1,872 mm, height of 1,673 mm, and a wheelbase of 2,700 mm.

Being the smaller stablemate, the latter has a length of 4,400 mm, width of 1,830 mm, height of 1,588 mm, and a wheelbase of 2,630 mm.

Back to the Omoda 7, Chery says it adopts a “Stylish 360°” design language, which features a low-slung posture and a sophisticated fastback silhouette to appeal to the younger demographic.

Some of the notable design elements include a parametric grille with a hexagonal pattern, a two-tone colour scheme, and a sharp taillight design featuring an “Electric Energy” graphic.

Inside, you will find a steering wheel designed based on the PlayStation 5 controller and a 15.6-inch screen that can slide from the centre console towards the front passenger.

Meanwhile, its seats are inspired by gaming chairs and wrapped in nubuck leather. Other niceties include a 12+2 speaker audio system that offers a concert hall-like audio experience, a four-zone voice command function, a smart fragrance system, and noise cancellation (ENC) technology.

Powering the Omoda 7 is a TGDi 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine with a plug-in hybrid system. Technical details such as power and torque were not disclosed, but according to Chery, this powertrain offers an “extreme energy saving” mode, allowing it to achieve a driving range of up to 1,200 km on a full tank and battery.

The driver assistance and safety features include ADAS with 18 features, Auto Parking, and six airbags. The SUV is also said to have a torsional stiffness of 25,000 N·m/degree.

NEWS

Triumph Speed 400, Scrambler 400 X launched in Malaysia

TRIUMPH Motorcycles Malaysia has officially launched the Triumph T-Series range in the Malaysian market, consisting of two models – the Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X.

The Speed 400 is a roadster that joins the modern classic lineup alongside the Speed Twin 900 and 1200, while the Scrambler 400 X takes its rugged design cues from the Scrambler 900 and 1200, with an off-road pedigree that goes back to the first factory Scramblers of the 1950s.

Both models are powered by the same TR-Series liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine with a displacement of 398 cc, producing 40 PS and 37.5 Nm of torque. The engine complies with Euro 5 emission standards and is paired with a six-speed transmission.

While sharing the same ‘heart’, the Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X offer individual chassis configurations to provide different riding positions.

The Speed 400 comes with a 43 mm inverted fork, a mono-shock absorber with external reservoir, 17-inch front and rear aluminium alloy wheels, and a 300 mm front brake disc matched with a four-piston radial caliper. It also comes with a seat height of 790 mm and an overall weight of 170 kg.

On the other hand, the Scrambler 400 X employs the same suspension setup but with a higher travel of 150 mm. This version is also equipped with a 19-inch front wheel, a wider handlebar, and a larger 320 mm brake disc.

The footpegs are positioned lower, while the seat is slightly raised to 835 mm. Its weight also increases by 9 kg compared to the Speed 400.

Both models feature Ride-by-Wire, Traction Control, and dual-channel ABS, which can be deactivated for off-road riding on the Scrambler 400 X.

Other niceties include LED lights, an LCD screen with a digital tachometer, fuel gauge, gear position indicator, USB-C charging socket, and an immobilizer.

Selling prices start from RM26,900 for the Speed 400 and RM29,900 for the Scrambler 400 X.

NEWS

Lamborghini Urus SE is an 800 PS plug-in hybrid super SUV

LAMBORGHINI’s best-selling model, the Urus, is now available in a plug-in hybrid variant, offering the highest power in its range and a significant reduction in emissions.

Known as the Urus SE, it is powered by the same 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine but with the addition of an electric motor inside the 8-speed automatic transmission.

According to Lamborghini, the engine has been reworked to work in optimal synergy with the electric powertrain. The engine alone produces 620 PS and 800 Nm, while the electric generates an additional 192 PS and 483 Nm. The combined output is a whopping 800 PS and 950 Nm.

Performance-wise, the Urus SE accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 3.4 seconds (0.1 seconds faster than the Urus S) and reaches a top speed of 302 km/h (7 km/h faster than the Urus S).

While these figures are remarkable, the title of the fastest Urus still belongs to the Performante, which is capable of completing the century sprint in 3.3 seconds and reaching a top speed of 306 km/h, despite having only 666 PS.

The Urus SE is equipped with a 25.7 kWh lithium-ion battery located beneath the boot floor, providing this super SUV with an electric driving range of over 60 km in EV mode. Despite offering the highest power in the Urus lineup, this variant exhibits an 80% lower level of emissions.

Also debuting on the Urus SE is the new centrally-located longitudinal electric torque vectoring system with an electro-hydraulic multi-plate clutch, which distributes driving torque variably and continuously between the front and rear axles.

The transfer case works in synergy with the new electronic limited-slip differential installed on the rear axle, giving the vehicle “on demand” oversteering to convey the feel of a purebred super sports car.

NEWS

BYD Shark PHEV pickup truck to launch soon

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BYD recently announced that its first pickup truck will be called the Shark, making it the automaker’s latest model to be named after marine animals after the Dolphin, Seal, and Sea Lion.

Set to make its debut at the Beijing Motor Show, the Shark will reportedly feature BYD’s latest plug-in hybrid powertrain known as DMO (Dual-Mode Off-Road).

Details regarding the powertrain are scarce but according to reports, it may feature a combination of a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine and two electric motors just like the Fang Cheng Bao 5.

In the Fang Cheng Bao 5, the ICE-eletric motor combo generates a total system output of 680 PS and 760 Nm. The off-road SUV is also said to offer an electric range of up to 125 km or up to 1,200 km in hybrid mode.

Apart from the PHEV version, there is a possibility that the Shark will also be offered in a full electric version somewhere in the future.

As far as design is concerned, recent leaked photos of the Shark show that the pickup truck has a front fascia resembling that of the Ford Ranger.

The cabin looks a tad watered down compared to other BYDs, featuring a digital instrument panel, central display, flat-bottom steering wheel, and a row of switches arranged adjacent to the gear lever on the center console.

Will the Shark swim its way to the Malaysian market? There is no official announcement yet, but BYD has previously stated that it plans to sell the pickup truck globally.

EV, NEWS

Tesla Model 3 Performance available for order in Malaysia – from RM242k

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The new Tesla Model 3 Performance, the most powerful variant in the Model 3 lineup, has been officially introduced with a selling price of RM242,000 in Malaysia.

Powering the Model 3 Performance is Tesla’s latest generation performance drive unit (Performance 4DU) consisting of two electric motors, one on each axle.

Based on the specifications available on the Tesla Malaysia website, the electric sedan boasts a total system output of 460 hp that enables it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.1 seconds, with a maximum speed of 262 km/h.

For comparison, the Model 3 Long Range AWD takes 4.4 seconds to reach the same speed and can accelerate up to 201 km/h.

In terms of range, the Model 3 Performance is said to be capable of covering a distance of up to 528 km based on WLTP cycle, which is 101 km shorter than what the Long Range AWD offers.

Additionally, the high-performance variant also features a new adaptive damping system paired with multi-sectioned stabiliser bar, ultra-high strength steel springs, and stiffer suspension top mounts.

The braking system has been upgraded through track-ready pads, which offer more immediate deceleration and higher thermal limits and endurance.

In terms of appearance, this variant can be distinguished by new front and rear bumper designs, a rear diffuser, and a carbon fibre spoiler.

The Malaysian market model comes with 20-inch Warp wheels and is available in five colours: Pearl White Multi-Coat, Solid Black (RM5,000), Deep Blue Metallic (RM5,000), Stealth Grey (RM7,500), and Ultra Red (RM11,000).

Inside, you’ll find sport seats with enhanced bolstering and deeper position, carbon fibre trims on the dashboard, and a Track Mode V3 that integrates motor controls, suspension controls, powertrain cooling, and Vehicle Dynamics Controller (VDC) under a single, unified system.

As for the cabin space, black upholstery comes as standard, but customers can also opt for black and white upholstery at an additional cost of RM5,000.

According to Tesla Malaysia, the delivery of the Model 3 Performance is expected to commence in the second quarter of this year.

NEWS

Suzuki Jimny 5-Door now open for booking in Malaysia

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NAZA Eastern Motors, the official distributor of Suzuki vehicles in Malaysia, recently uploaded a teaser image for an upcoming model set to enter the local market soon.

Although the puzzle in the teaser is incomplete, it clearly shows that the vehicle in question is in fact the Suzuki Jimny 5-Door.

According to the caption in the post, order books for the off-road mini SUV are now open. However, the official launch date is yet to be announced.

The specifications for the Malaysian market are still unknown at the time of writing, but looking at the spec sheet for the international market, we know that the Jimny 5-Door comes with the familiar K15B 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 102 PS and 130 Nm.

The engine is available with both manual and automatic transmission options, but for our market, we expect the Jimny 5-Door to be offered only with the automatic gearbox just like the 3-Door.

Needless to say, the Jimny 5-Door has a larger footprint than its 3-Door sibling with a length of 3,985 mm and a wheelbase of 2,590 mm. However, the width, height, and ground clearance all remain at 1,645 mm, 1,720 mm, and 210 mm, respectively.

With the longer body, the approach angle of the Jimny 5-Door is reduced from 37 to 36 degrees, while the breakover angle decreased from 28 to 24 degrees.

Nevertheless, the larger dimensions mean the 5-Door offers a larger boot space of 211 litres (compared to 85 litres in the Jimny 3-door) and a more spacious rear passenger legroom.

No hint of pricing yet but it will be slightly higher than the 3-Door, which is sold starting at RM168,900 for the Rainforest Edition.

NEWS

MAN: first autonomous truck on the motorway

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MAN has become the first commercial vehicle manufacturer to send an autonomous truck onto the German motorway.

On board of the test truck, which drove around 10 km on the A9 between the Allershausen and Fürholzen junctions, were Federal Transport Minister Dr Volker Wissing and MAN CEO Alexander Vlaskamp.

MAN, which has been intensively driving forward the development of autonomous trucks for use in logistics hubs and for hub-to-hub traffic, recently became the first commercial vehicle manufacturer to receive a Level 4 test permit based on the law on autonomous driving on German motorways.

According to the company, there is a steady growth in freight volumes and transport between logistics hubs that include warehouses of large online department stores.

The use of autonomous trucks in this so-called hub-to-hub transport is particularly suitable for this as the trucks are always on the road, extremely efficient in terms of consumption and safe to drive.

There are no driving time breaks, so the vehicles can be perfectly integrated into tightly synchronised logistics processes. In the long term, the efficient use of autonomous trucks can reduce overall operating costs by 10 to 15%.

MAN also claims that the new technology can also alleviate the driver shortage. There is already a shortage of up to 100,000 truck drivers in Germany alone, the company said in a statement.

“Further hub-to-hub projects will follow from 2025, but then in typical customer applications. We are thus taking the next development step towards series production of autonomous trucks towards the end of the decade. The law on autonomous driving gives our industry the necessary planning security,” said Alexander Vlaskamp, Chairman of the Executive Board of MAN Truck & Bus SE.

He added that the company will need to work closely with infrastructure operators such as Autobahn GmbH to realise autonomous driving.