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

Land Rover Defender Octa to compete in Dakar Rally, W2RC next year

The Land Rover Defender Octa is undeniably powerful, boasting 635 PS and 750 Nm on tap. But that’s on paper – does it have what it takes to perform in the real world?

To test the true capabilities of the Defender Octa, Land Rover has announced that it will participate in the Dakar Rally and the FIA World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC) starting next year.

The automaker said it will run a two‑vehicle entry of competition‑spec Defenders in W2RC under the ‘Stock’ category for production‑based vehicles, and a three‑vehicle entry in the Dakar Rally.

Competing in the Stock category means the Defender Octa will retain its engine, transmission, drivetrain, and body design as per the production model.

Racing with a standard powertrain may sound dull, but new regulations set to be implemented by 2026 will make said category significantly more competitive.

Launched in July 2024, the Defender Octa is the fastest Defender ever produced by Land Rover. It is powered by a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.0 seconds, aided by an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Additionally, the SUV features a D7x architecture based on a monocoque aluminium construction, which is said to be three times stronger than traditional body-on-frame designs.

The suspension system comprises semi-active dampers designed to reduce pitch and body roll while maximising suspension articulation, allowing it to tackle more extreme terrains.

NEWS

Officine Fioravanti tames the infamously wild Ferrari F40

With a timeless design crafted by the geniuses at Pininfarina, many consider the Ferrari F40 to be the most beautiful Ferrari ever made.

Not only that, but with its 2.9-litre twin-turbo V8 engine paired with a five-speed manual transmission, it is also dubbed the greatest analogue supercar of its era.

However, the combination of a potent engine, a lightweight body, and a lack of electronic systems makes the F40 incredibly difficult to tame. Well, this year alone, two F40s have been wrecked in separate incidents.

To prevent the number of F40s from continuing to dwindle, a company from Turin called Officine Fioravanti, has produced a special package to make the car easier to drive without compromising its character.

The package, known as Alte Prestazioni, includes an Ohlins TTX 36 suspension system with four-way adjustment, along with new arms, ball bearings, and hub carriers.

Also included are carbon-ceramic discs and Brembo calipers (six-piston at the front, four at the rear), as well as enhanced ABS. The steering has also been improved with a new box with power hydraulic assistance.

Since the F40 is regarded as one of the most aesthetically pleasing Ferraris ever produced, not much has been done to lift up its appearance.

However, to give it a more aggressive look, Officine Fioravanti has added larger wheels, measuring 18 inches at the front and 19 inches at the rear. Customers can choose between Michelin Cup 2 or Pirelli P Zero tyres.

The price of this package has not been stated, but for those who own an F40, money is likely the least of their concerns.

NEWS

Speed limit on all federal roads reduced by 10 km/h for CNY

Minister of Works Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi has announced that the speed limit on all Federal roads across the country will be reduced from 90 km/h to 80 km/h starting tomorrow until February 2 in conjunction with the Chinese New Year celebrations.

According to Nanta, this temporary speed limit reduction for six days during the Integrated Operation aims to minimise the risk of road traffic accidents.

“During this period, road repair and maintenance works that are not critical will also be temporarily halted so as not to disrupt traffic flow while emergency works for the safety of road users will be properly planned.

“If necessary, alternative routes will be provided so as not to disrupt the journey of road users,” he said.

In addition, Nanta stated that he has also directed the North-South Expressway Project (PLUS) to temporarily halt the widening of lanes along the Sedenak-Kulai stretch from January 23 to February 3 to ensure smooth traffic on the highway.

TIPS

7 easy tips for long-distance driving

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The school holiday and festive season is upon us once again, and as you know, parents will use this time to spend with family in their hometowns or at holiday destinations across the country.

For those planning to use their car to reach their destinations, here are some tips to ensure your journey is comfortable and safe.

Plan your journey in advance

Once you have chosen your destination, it’s important to plan your route ahead of time to save time and reduce stress. Those opting to travel via highway can benefit from the digital travel schedule provided by PLUS.

Ensure your vehicle is in top condition

A few days before setting off, it is advisable to check some basic components, such as tyres, engine oil, headlights, brake lights, brakes, air conditioning, and windscreen wipers. Or simply take your car to a service centre or workshop to be inspected by trained technicians.

Get adequate rest

In addition to the vehicle, drivers must ensure they are in good health. Make sure you have enough sleep, especially if you plan to leave early in the morning.

Switch drivers

The likelihood of feeling fatigued decreases if you take turns driving with other passengers. However, ensure that the driver change is done in a safe place, such as a rest stop.

Wear comfortable clothing

This is something usually done by those who frequently travel abroad, but it is also suitable for those using ground transport. Wear loose-fitting clothing to ensure you can move freely in the car, and consider bringing a small cushion for added support in the lower back.

Take breaks every two hours

To combat fatigue and drowsiness, it is recommended to take breaks every two hours or every 200 km. Use this opportunity to have a short nap, stretch your body, or answer the nature’s call.

Bring snacks

Even if you’ve had enough sleep, factors such as comfortable air conditioning or even hot, sunny weather can still make you drowsy. Snacks like fruit, nuts, or sweets can help keep you alert and energised.

TIPS

Nissan Kicks e-Power costs RM3,624 to service over 100,000 km/5 years of ownership

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Launched last December at the Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show (KLIMS) 2024, the Nissan Kicks e-Power bears the significant responsibility of driving the resurgence of Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM).

For the Malaysian market, the Kicks e-Power is fully imported (CBU) from Thailand. We get the first-generation facelift model that was actually introduced in that country four years ago.

Although it may not be the freshest product on the market, it offers something new to car buyers in Malaysia – the e-Power powertrain.

Unlike conventional hybrid systems, the internal combustion engine in the e-Power system does not drive the wheels. Its role is to charge the 2.1 kWh battery, which in turn powers the front axle.

Sounds pretty fancy, but what are the maintenance costs like?

For mileage intervals of 10,000 km, 20,000 km, 50,000 km, and 70,000 km, customers will need to spend RM252.80 for replacements of engine oil, oil filter, sump washer, and a multipoint inspection.

When the odometer hits 30,000 km, 60,000 km, and 90,000 km, Nissan will replace the air conditioning filter, bringing the cost to RM367.80.

For mileage at 40,000 km and 80,000 km, the DOT3 brake fluid will be replaced along with the engine oil, oil filter, and sump washer. For these two intervals, the cost reaches RM468.80 each.

Once the odometer surpasses six figures, you will need to spend RM571.80 for services involving the replacements of engine oil, oil filter, sump washer, spark plugs, and multipoint inspection.

According to ETCM, the prices mentioned include labour costs but exclude an 8% service tax.

The first replacement for coolant will be carried out at 160,000 km and will occur every 80,000 km thereafter. The inverter coolant will begin to be replaced at 200,000 km and subsequently every 80,000 km.

Conclusion

The total cost of regular servicing for the Nissan Kicks e-Power is approximately RM3,624 for a mileage of 100,000 km/five years of ownership. This means, on average, owners should expect to spend about RM724.80 per year or RM60.40 per month on servicing.

This calculation is important because, in addition to instalment payments, customers also need to consider servicing costs and other expenses such as fuel, insurance, and tolls before making a decision.

NEWS

50% highway toll discount on Jan 27 & 28 in conjunction with CNY

Highway users can look forward to a 50% discount on tolls on January 27 and 28 in conjunction with the Chinese New Year celebrations.

This was announced by the Minister of Works, Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, in an official statement released on January 24.

According to the statement, the discount will be implemented starting from 12:01 AM on 27 January 2025 (Monday) and will end at 11:59 PM on 28 January 2025 (Tuesday).

The discount is specifically for Class 1 private vehicles at all toll plazas, except for the Bangunan Sultan Iskandar (BSI) Toll on the North-South Expressway (PLUS) and the Tanjung Kupang Toll on the Malaysia-Singapore Second Link Expressway (LINKEDUA).

“The discount is a continuation of the festive season toll assistance consistently provided by the government for all four major festive seasons in the Peninsular since 2023,” said Nanta.

During this period, the government has spent RM356.18 million as compensation for implementing the Festive Season free toll initiative from 2023 to 2024.

For this discount initiative, the financial implications for the government to reimburse the toll concession companies involved are estimated to total RM20.08 million.

“My previous announcement regarding toll waivers during festive seasons, which were set to end after Christmas 2024, was based on the Cabinet’s decision on December 20, 2024.

“However, today’s Cabinet meeting agreed to provide a 50% toll discount for Chinese New Year 2025, in line with the MADANI Government’s agenda of to promote unity and the well-being of the people, supported by the government’s strong financial position resulting from subsidy rationalisation programmes and increased investment and trade,” he added.

EV, NEWS

Denza D9 bookings open in Malaysia

Paultan.org reports that the Denza D9 is now available for order in the Malaysian market.

Specifications and pricing have yet to be announced; however, we expect the luxury MPV to arrive in an electric version, as seen in Hong Kong and Thailand.

In addition to the electric variant, the D9 is also available with a plug-in hybrid powertrain in China. The electric D9 will position itself as a close competitor to the Zeekr 009 and the Maxus Mifa 9.

In terms of size, the D9 measures 5,250 mm in length, 1,960 mm in width, 1,920 mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 3,110 mm. This makes it longer than the 009, but its wheelbase is 95 mm shorter than that of its nearest competitor.

The D9 EV is available in two powertrain configurations: front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). The FWD variant features a single electric motor producing 313 PS (230 kW) and 360 Nm of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.5 seconds.

Meanwhile, the AWD variant with dual electric motors offers 374 PS (275 kW) and 470 Nm, enabling it to achieve 0-100 km/h acceleration in just 6.9 seconds.

Both variants are equipped with a 103 kWh LFP battery, offering a WLTP range of 520 km for the FWD and 480 km for the AWD.

The battery electric MPV can accommodate up to seven passengers (with a height of up to 180 cm) in a 2-2-3 seating configuration, featuring sliding captain’s chairs in the second row.

The cargo space is said to be capable of holding seven 20-inch suitcases and seven backpacks.

In China, the D9 EV is priced between 379,800 yuan and 469,800 yuan (approximately RM233,648 to RM289,015). For comparison, the price of the Zeekr 009 in the Malaysian market starts at RM349,800.

NEWS

Chery Malaysia hands over new SUVs to heroes of Paris 2024 Paralympics

Chery Malaysia has recently presented new Chery vehicles to the country’s Paralympic athletes during an event held at the Chery showroom in Glenmarie, Selangor.

It should be noted that these vehicles were purchased by the Paralympic athletes at an exclusive discount offered by Chery Malaysia as a token of appreciation for their contributions in bringing honour to the nation in the field of sports.

During the event attended by the Minister of Youth and Sports, Hannah Yeoh, Chery Malaysia handed over an Omoda 5 to silver medal-winning shot putter Muhammad Ziyad Zolkefli and an Omoda E5 to badminton gold medallist Cheah Liek Hou.

Powerlifting gold medallist Bonnie Bunyau Gustin, who also broke the world record, booked a Tiggo 8 Pro but was unable to attend the ceremony.

In a special initiative last year, Paralympic gold medallists were eligible for a 50% discount on Chery’s SUVs, while silver medalists and athletes who reached the semi-finals and finals received a 30% discount.

Additionally, Chery also offered a 15% discount to all athletes competing in the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“Our Paralympians exemplify the strength and resilience that inspire us all. At Chery, we are honoured to stand beside them in their journey, celebrating their victories and supporting their aspirations,” said Michael Chew, Vice President of Chery Malaysia.

NEWS

JPJ launches Ops Khas CNY 2025, to focus on 9 main offences

The Department of Road Transport (JPJ) has launched the 2025 Chinese New Year Special Operation, which will take place over 20 days from 20th January to 9th February.

According to the department, the 2025 Chinese New Year Special Operation aims to monitor, detect, and take action against road users who violate traffic regulations or laws.

JPJ will focus on nine main offences under the Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333), which are as follows:

  • Driving above the speed limit
  • Jumping the red lights
  • Overtaking on a double line
  • Driving on the emergency lane
  • Queue cutting
  • Using a mobile phone
  • Not wearing seat belts or helmets
  • Driving heavy vehicles on the fast lane
  • Overloading

At the same time, JPJ is also launching a road safety campaign themed ‘Pandu Cermat, Sampai Selamat’, which will see the implementation of methods and approaches for road safety advocacy through more than 30 programmes.

Among the programmes to be held are exhibitions, awareness talks, distribution of road safety kits, and advocacy programmes in collaboration with strategic partners, including the media.

In conjunction with the 2025 Chinese New Year, JPJ urges road users to always adhere to traffic regulations, ensure that their vehicles are in good condition, and plan their journeys.

NEWS

Jaecoo Malaysia opens new 3S centre in PJ Midtown to meet growing customer demand

In tandem with a growing customer base, Jaecoo Malaysia continues to invest in the expansion of its dealer network across the country.

Most recently, the company has launched a new 3S centre (sales, service, and spare parts) located in Section 13, Petaling Jaya, more commonly known as PJ Midtown.

Operated by Evenergy Auto Sdn Bhd, the 6,000 square foot facility has the capacity to cater to the Petaling Jaya, Bandar Utama, Damansara, Mont Kiara, Hartamas, Bangsar and TTDI townships, all within a 5 km radius or 15 minute drive.

The showroom features the latest Jaecoo models, such as the J7 and C9, and provides various amenities for customer comfort, including a lounge area with high-speed Wi-Fi, complimentary beverages, and free valet parking.

Meanwhile, the satellite service centre is located in Sea Park, a mere a 10-minute drive from the showroom. It is equipped with five service bays and a spare parts warehouse where genuine Jaecoo parts are stored.

“Jaecoo is excited to move closer to our customers as we continue delivering a vibrant line-up of premium off-road SUVs and best-in-class customer service,” said Jaecoo Malaysia Vice President, Emily Lek.

Reaffirming the brand’s position, Lek explains, “We are redefining attainable luxury in the market, and this is embedded into every aspect of the brand, from the design of our vehicles and dealerships, to the curation of exceptional ownership experiences for our customers. As Malaysia’s challenger premium off-road SUV brand, this is a clear commitment to the market and our customers, that Jaecoo is here to stay.”

The Jaecoo 3S PJ Midtown centre is located at G-06, PJ Mid Town, Jalan Kemajuan, Section 13, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. To make an appointment, customers can call 012-8251766.

NEWS

Modenas Kriss 125 Fi launched in Malaysia – RM5,620

Motosikal & Enjin Nasional Sdn Bhd (Modenas) marks an exciting start to the new year with the launch of the Kriss 125 Fi into the local market.

The kapcai is priced at RM5,620, excluding insurance and road tax, and is available in two colours: Glacier Emerald Green and Graphite Grey.

The ‘heart’ of the Kriss 125 Fi is a single-cylinder, four-stroke, two-valve SOHC engine with a displacement of 124 cc that is capable of generating 8.4 hp at 8,000 rpm and 8.5 Nm at 6,000 rpm.

According to Modenas, the air-cooled engine features a compression ratio of 9.3:1, a fuel injection system, and can be started electrically or via kick start.

It is paired with a four-speed transmission and receives fuel supply from a 4.2-litre capacity tank.

Additionally, the Kriss 125 Fi comes equipped with telescopic forks and dual shock absorbers, while the wheels measure 17 inches, wrapped with tyres sized 70/90 at the front and 80/90 at the rear.

The braking system consists of a single 220 mm hydraulic disc brake, clamped by a two-piston caliper at the front, and a drum brake at the rear.

“The Kriss 125 Fi is more than just a new model—it represents Modenas’ ambition to deliver reliable, affordable, and efficient mobility solutions tailored to Malaysian riders and roads. Entering this segment symbolizes our commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction,” said Modenas Chief Executive Officer, Roslan Roskan.

NEWS

No more toll exemptions during festive seasons starting this year

Every time the festive season arrives, the government will offer highway toll exemptions to ease the travel burdens of the rakyat travelling back to their hometowns.

However, this practice will be stopped starting this year in lieu of a more targeted approach.

According to the Minister of Works, Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, this matter was decided at a cabinet meeting last year.

Nevertheless, he stated that the government will replace the cessation of free tolls with a more targeted approach.

Without specifying the targeted approach, he said: “There will be no more free tolls during the festive season.”

“We will announce the more targeted approach in the near future. Last year, the government decided that 2024 would be the final year for free tolls during the festive season.”

Photo by PROLINTAS

Previously, the government said that it had to cover the costs of providing free tolls.

On average, the government pays about RM20 million daily to the highway concessionaire companies through the provision of free tolls.

Just last year, the government paid RM80.07 million for Aidilfitri, RM42.31 million for Deepavali, RM41.21 million for the Chinese New Year, and RM38 million for Christmas.

The provision of free tolls last Christmas was the final instance of such government support during the festive season.

NEWS

2025 BMW 3 Series gets updated for Malaysia – new steering wheel and more

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BMW Malaysia today announces several new updates to its BMW 3 Series range, including modernised design elements, enhanced digital features and dynamic equipment improvements.

The updated 3 Series range will now arrive with a refreshed interior, including new a M Sport steering wheel and 12 o’clock strap arriving as standard and new geometrical air vents.

The updated finer grain on upper instrument panel and upper door panel cover now adorns the cabin interior, and new geometrical surface décor trims will also arrive as standard in the interior of the 330 Li.

Added driving comfort for the sedan also comes in the form of enhanced suspension adaptation for better control over open and uneven roads.

The intuitive interaction and control of the 3 Series is now supplemented by the latest BMW Operating System 8.5, accessible via the BMW Curved Display. The system comes with QuickSelect touch-oriented menu structure to provide an even more efficient access to relevant vehicle features.

Other digital enhancements for the 3 Series also include updated Video Augmented Reality (AR) features for the camera- and ultrasound-based Parking Assistant, as well as improved speech recognition performance for the BMW iDrive Intelligent Personal Assistant.

New exterior colour options include two fresh metallic colourways, Fire Red metallic and Arctic Race Blue metallic; joining the existing range of options for the mid-sized sedan alongside Alpine White, Black Sapphire metallic, M Brooklyn Grey metallic and M Carbon Black metallic.

With these improvements, selling prices (including the standard two-year warranty) have increased by RM6,000 across the range: RM272,800 for the 320i M Sport, RM308,800 for the 330i M Sport, RM314,800 for the 330Li M Sport, and RM385,800 for the M340i xDrive M Sport Pro.

Not only that, the plug-in hybrid variant, the 330e M Sport, seems to have been discontinued as part of this update.

EV, NEWS

Perodua, UTM join forces to develop xEV in Malaysia

Perodua and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to develop the country’s next generation of electric vehicles (xEV).

The MoU includes a comprehensive package that would cover educating and training future engineers in developing new technologies relating to xEV.

“We look forward to exploring a future where Malaysia can develop its own xEV technology and its benefits be shared with our future generation,” Perodua President and Chief Executive Officer Dato’ Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad said.

“With this MoU, Perodua is taking a step further from our original mandate from being a vehicle for technological transfer to becoming an entity that drives technological development,” he said.

Perodua was established in 1993 to provide Malaysian with high-quality yet affordable cars while at the same time act as a company that can transfer technology into Malaysia.

This technology transfer was aimed at developing the national automotive ecosystem as well as improving technical and technological knowledge of Malaysians.

Prof. Dr. Rosli Md Illias, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) of Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), highlighted the collaboration’s potential to drive sustainable mobility in Malaysia.

“This collaboration’s underscores the importance of bridging the gap between academia and industry that can empower graduates with the skills and knowledge” he said.

The collaboration will empower UTM students and researchers while serving as a model for academia-industry partnerships, ensuring Malaysia remains competitive in the global automotive sector.

The MoU highlights six key elements, including enhancing UTM’s academic curriculum, establishing a satellite lab at UTM’s main campus, exchange of knowledge in automotive technology, exposure to xEV technology for academicians and engineers, collaboration in the field of academia and R&D, as well as development of talent and training programmes.

The MoU also offers both parties other areas of cooperation that are mutually beneficial to them.

NEWS

1,427 km on a single tank? Not a problem for the Jaecoo J7 PHEV

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Last October, the Jaecoo J7 PHEV demonstrated its capacity to travel more than 1,300 km on a full tank of fuel and battery during a marathon event from Guangzhou to Wuhu, China.

This time around, the SUV once again showcased the prowess of its Super Hybrid System by successfully completing a long-distance course from Singapore, through Malaysia to Hatyai, Thailand a on a single tank of petrol and charge.

The three-day journey saw five units of the J7 PHEV surpass the 1,200 km WLTP range, with the longest range recorded at 1,427.5 km.

According to Jaecoo Malaysia, 947 km was covered purely on petrol, while 108 km was achieved using electric power, which is 18 km more than its specifications.

Fuel consumption was reported at 3.5 l/100 km, significantly lower than Jaecoo’s stated figure of 6.6 l/100 km.

“We are incredibly proud to finally demonstrate the Jaecoo J7 PHEV’s performance to the local market. It has truly exceled when put to the test during the course of this journey, a testament to the Jaecoo brand promise of delivering best-in-class vehicles.

“In addition to being the only PHEV with a direct current (DC) charging capability, our Super Hybrid System technology is the first in its class here in Malaysia. We are excited for our customers to enjoy the benefits of the Jaecoo J7 PHEV very soon,” said Emily Lek, Vice President of Jaecoo Malaysia.

Set for its Malaysian launch this February, the J7 PHEV is powered by a combination of a 1.5-litre TGDI engine, a single-speed DHT hybrid transmission, and an 18.3 kW LFP Blade battery that delivers a total power output of 347 PS (255 kW) and 525 Nm of torque.

The battery supports AC charging at 6.6 kW, enabling it to charge from 30% to 80% in three hours, and DC charging at 40 kW, which requires only 20 minutes for the same charge.

Alternatively, owners can use a 230 V three-pin home socket, which takes approximately 8.5 hours for a full charge.

TEST DRIVE

Three weaknesses of the Chery Tiggo 7 Pro

Launched in the Malaysian market last June, the Chery Tiggo 7 Pro has a significant responsibility to strengthen the Chery brand’s presence in the country.

As a newcomer, the Tiggo 7 Pro faces considerable challenges, as its closest competitors, such as the Honda CR-V and Proton X70, are indeed formidable. However, after test-driving it, I found that this Chinese SUV is capable of providing stiff competition in its segment.

That said, like other vehicles on the market, it also has its drawbacks. These drawbacks are relatively minor in my view but can still impact the ownership experience.

Engine is powerful but lacks refinement

Believe it or not, the Tiggo 7 Pro is more powerful than both the CR-V and X70, boasting figures of 197 PS and 290 Nm from its 1.6-litre turbocharged engine.

With a seven-speed DCT transmission driving the front wheels, the SUV is capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.3 seconds, with a top speed of 205 km/h.

On the highway, the combination of engine and transmission performs admirably, offering quick throttle response and smooth gear changes. However, when navigating busy city streets, I found that the powertrain can be somewhat unrefined and occasionally struggles slightly when taking off.

Suspension is a tad too soft

The Tiggo 7 Pro’s suspension system is typical for a Chinese brand vehicle. It is soft and comfortable, with satisfactory shock absorption, which gives me more confidence when traversing uneven roads.

However, the softness of the suspension makes the Tiggo 7 Pro feel a bit unsteady if driven too fast. It can still handle corners well, but if pushed too hard, you can feel it beginning to ‘struggle.’

Clearly, the way the dampers are set is best suited for leisurely driving, but I believe it requires a little of fine-tuning to better cope with Malaysia’s unpredictable road conditions.

Appearance could use a little more pizzazz

Don’t get me wrong; I think the Tiggo 7 Pro is actually rather handsome and stylish. That said, when placed alongside the CR-V and X70, I am confident it would get overshadowed due to its somewhat conventional design language.

The Mercedes-esque diamond-like studs on the grille and full-width rear lights are attractive touches that boost the car’s appeal, yet it’s undeniable that the red brake calipers appear somewhat out of place for a family vehicle.

Additionally, the blue accents on the bumper seem like an afterthought. If you follow the automotive industry closely, you’d know that blue is often used by vehicle manufacturers for EVs, hybrids, or PHEVs, making it seem rather odd on a pure ICE vehicle like the Tiggo 7 Pro.

NEWS

BYD Seal becomes first EV to win Overall Malaysia Car of the Year Award

The BYD Seal Premium Extended Range has made history by becoming the first EV to win the Overall Car of the Year award at the Malaysia Car of the Year Awards 2024 (MCOTY).

In addition to this top accolade, the Seal Premium Extended Range also triumphed in the Sedan Below RM200,000 and xEV (RM150,000-RM300,000) categories, while the Seal Performance AWD won the Sedan (RM200,000-RM300,000) category.

Moreover, the official distributor of BYD vehicles in Malaysia, BYD Sime Motors, emerged as the biggest winner of the night by sweeping a total of four awards.

Jeffrey Gan, Managing Director of Southeast Asia for Sime Motors, emphasised that the recognition reflects the continued leadership of Sime Motors in the EV market.

“These accolades reflect the trust in BYD’s offerings, supported by Sime Motors’ extensive network, exceptional service centres and outstanding after sales service across the nation,” he said.

The MCOTY is an esteemed recognition that highlights excellence in the automotive sector, celebrating achievements in innovation, sustainability and excellence.

The criteria for the awards are meticulous, evaluating vehicles across various factors such as design, safety, performance, energy efficiency and value for money. The judging panel comprised automotive industry professionals, experts and media representatives, ensuring a transparent and comprehensive evaluation process.

NEWS

BMW R12 vintage cruiser launched in Malaysia – RM123,000

BMW Group Malaysia has further expanded its range of Motorrad models with the launch of the BMW R12, priced at RM123,000.

The motorcycle showcases a vintage-inspired exterior that houses a slew of modern riding technologies.

For the Malaysian market, the R12 is available in Aventurin Red Metallic, further accentuated by lightweight alloy cast wheels, a stainless-steel exhaust system, and a sleek, open shaft drive to complete the look.

The R12 features LED headlight and taillights, combined with Adaptive Headlight Prosystem and Dynamic Brake Lights, ensuring maximum visibility day or night.

At its core lies the heart of the R12 – a 1,170cc water-cooled two-cylinder four-stroke R boxer engine with four valves per cylinder, along with a six-speed gearbox.

The engine is capable of producing 95 hp at 6,500 rpm and 110 Nm at 6,000 rpm, allowing the R12 to achieve a top speed of 200 km/h.

In terms of electronics, the R12 offers a Rock & Roll riding mode, as well as features such as Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), ABS Pro with optimised banking angle, and Gear Shift Assistant Pro.

It also comes standard with a Comfort Package that includes features like Cruise Control, Hillstart Control, Gear Shift Assistant Pro and heated grips, all engineered for long-distance cruising with comfort.

Also included as standard are the Keyless Ride system, a USB charging port, and Connected Ride Control for an intuitive and connected riding experience.

NEWS

Petron opens its 800th service station in Malaysia

Petron Malaysia recently achieved a new milestone with the opening of its 800th service station, the Petron Pedas-Linggi Layby Southbound, located on the PLUS North-South Expressway.

According to the company, the opening of the 4,047 square foot station comes at an opportune time to accommodate the increase in traffic due to the upcoming school holidays and festivities in January.

In addition to fuel products such as Blaze 100 Euro 4M, Blaze 97 Euro 4M, Blaze 95 Euro 4M, Turbo Diesel Euro 5, and Diesel Max Euro 5, the service station also features has a Treats Mart with various in-store offerings such as Dunkin’, Costa Coffee, and an Automated Teller Machine (ATM).

This is the first Petron service station to feature a Quick Treats booth at the forecourt area, allowing customers to grab and go some snacks and beverages from the convenience of their vehicles.

Similar to other Treats stores, the Treats at this petrol station offers shelves for locally produced goods under the ‘Sapot Lokal’ initiative, which provides a space for local entrepreneurs to sell their products.

Aside from growing the business, Petron Malaysia is equally focused on its sustainability commitments. The Petron Pedas-Linggi Layby Southbound station incorporated green solutions into its design, such as rainwater harvesting, solar-powered lighting, and eco-friendly building materials.

“The opening of our 800 th service station marks a great end to 2024 and an excellent start to 2025 for Petron. This shows our commitment to bringing our products and services to more Malaysians, which cater to their fuel needs and many more,” said Mohd Nizam Mansor, General Manager of Petron Malaysia.

NEWS

7,041 units of the Jaecoo J7 were sold in just five months

Jaecoo Malaysia has announced that it managed to sell 7,041 units of the Jaecoo J7 in the first five months following its launch in July last year.

Jaecoo Malaysia vice president Emily Lek stated, “We appreciate our customers for their faith in the Jaecoo brand and we will remain dedicated to deliver on our brand promise with best-in-class vehicles and a premium ownership experience.”

Following the success of the J7 and C9 models in 2024, Jaecoo Malaysia aims to introduce more new models in 2025, in line with its mission to provide a range of affordable luxury vehicles in the automotive market.

The company’s efforts will begin with the launch of the J7 PHEV in February 2025. In preparation for its launch, the SUV will undertake a long-distance driving challenge across three countries – Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand – using a single full tank of petrol and one charge.

Meanwhile, to appreciate the achievements of its dealer network, Jaecoo has recognised 12 outstanding dealers at its first dealer award ceremony.

During the event, Auto Galaksi, which is based in Johor, took home the trophy for achieving the highest sales within the network.

Also recognised at the dealer awards ceremony were Gagner Auto, ES Premium Holdings, Luxury Legend, Siang Hin (KL), Apple Autotech, Kluster Automobile, Carshen, AAW Nexus, BH Premium Auto, Indah Utara Enterprise, and Tropical Impact Auto.

“These awards recognise the vital role our dealer network plays in the brand’s overall achievement. We will continue to expand our dealer network in line with our ambition to provide the absolute best customer experience” said Emily.

In an effort to identify further growth opportunities, Jaecoo will be expanding its evaluation to include Best Customer Service Index (CSI) and Sales Satisfaction Index (SSI) scores among others in the coming year.