In addition to the Mazda CX-60, another SUV model showcased at 2024 KLIMS is the Mazda CX-80.
Like the Mazda CX-60, the Mazda CX-80 is a mid-size SUV built on the Large Group Product platform, but features a three-row seating configuration.
The exterior design of the CX-80 also incorporates design elements similar to those of the CX-60.
The dimensions of the CX-80 are larger than those of the CX-60, measuring 4,995 mm in length, 1,890 mm in width, and 1,710 mm in height, with a wheelbase of approximately 3,120 mm.
The cabin of the CX-80 also includes features and amenities consistent with the CX-60, such as a digital cluster display, a 12.3-inch central screen, a head-up display, and a Bose audio system.
The unit displayed at KLIMS is equipped with a 2.5-liter e-Skyactiv G engine generating 328 PS and 500 Nm of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
At 2024 KLIMS, Bermaz Motor also took the opportunity to showcase two models from the Mazda Large Product group, namely the Mazda CX-60 and Mazda CX-80.
The Mazda CX-60 is a mid-size SUV that has been available in the global market since 2022.
It features dimensions of 4,745 mm in length, 1,890 mm in width, 1,685 mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2,870 mm, making it larger than the CX-50.
The exterior of the CX-60 embodies the design philosophy of ‘Kodo – Soul of Motion’ with a sharp front grille, smaller headlight units, and L-shaped daytime running lights that connect to the grille.
The cabin showcases a digital cluster display, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, a head-up display, dedicated climate control buttons, and a cargo space of 570 liters.
The unit displayed at KLIMS is equipped with a 3.3-liter inline-six e-Skyactiv G engine with a hybrid system, producing 280 hp and 450 Nm of torque.
At the 2024 Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show 2024 (2024 KLIMS), Bermaz Motor has launched the MS Limited Edition package, specifically designed for Mazda CX-5 SUV owners.
The MS Limited Edition package features glossy black finishes on the signature front wing grille, bumper, side mirrors, wheel arches, front and rear rocker panels, as well as 19-inch rims.
Additionally, Mazda offers a rear spoiler matched to the vehicle’s body color, complemented by MS exhaust tips for a sportier appearance.
The package also includes upgrades to handling, as the Mazda CX-5 now comes equipped with a black front strut bar that enhances the vehicle’s structural stability.
Inside the cabin, drivers will be welcomed by seats adorned with the MS logo, red stitching accents, sporty pedals, MS-branded floor mats, and suede finishes on the steering wheel, seats, and door panels.
The MS Limited Edition package for the Mazda CX-5 is priced at RM12,000 and includes a one-year warranty for genuine Mazda accessories.
Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia is providing special promotions throughout the 2024 Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (2024 KLIMS) held from December 5 to December 11, 2024.
Malaysians are invited to visit the Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia booth located on Level 2, where the theme “Drive Your Ambition” will be showcased, reflecting the brand’s commitment to innovation, challenges, and customer-centric values.
Additionally, customers who book and register a brand-new Mitsubishi Triton or Xpander at the MMM booth or any MMM exhibition center will receive a package that includes fuel subsidies and free maintenance for two years.
According to MMM CEO Ikeda Shinya, “We want to offer fuel to our customers so they can go further, ensuring they reach their destinations without worry during the year-end festive season.
“Furthermore, we aim to provide a free maintenance package, giving our customers peace of mind and allowing them to enjoy a hassle-free ownership experience.”
In addition to showcasing the latest models, MMM will also display a variety of genuine accessories for the Triton and Xpander models that cater to the lifestyle needs of Mitsubishi Motors customers.
MMM has also announced the launch of the MAX Leasing vehicle leasing program in collaboration with ALD MHC Mobility Services Malaysia.
This program offers a more manageable alternative to direct vehicle purchases, featuring more stable interest rates and a comprehensive service network to support the growth of vehicle leasing.
In addition to the launch of the D-segment sedan, the Toyota Camry, UMW Toyota Motor has also unveiled the C-segment crossover, the 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross facelift.
Unlike the previous model, the Corolla Cross facelift features more significant design changes, particularly at the front end.
It boasts an entirely new bumper structure, a front grille with a honeycomb design, Bi-LED headlights with Lexus-style DRL graphics, and sequential turn signals.
The GR Sport variant comes with an exclusive two-tone black roof design for a sportier appearance.
The two highest variants, the 1.8 HEV and the GR Sport HEV, are powered by a 1.8-liter 2ZR-FXE engine producing 98 PS and 142 Nm, paired with a 72 PS electric motor generating 163 Nm, resulting in a combined output of 122 hp matched to an eCVT transmission.
The 1.8V variant continues to offer the 1.8-liter 2ZR-FBE engine, which produces 140 hp and 177 Nm.
Meanwhile, the cabin is equipped with a 12.3-inch digital cluster screen, a 10.1-inch audio display screen with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an electric parking brake, a vehicle telematics system, and a remote engine start function for convenience and lifestyle comfort.
In terms of safety, the Corolla Cross facelift comes equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 (TSS 2.0), which includes a pre-collision system, lane departure warning (LDA), lane tracing assist (LTA), dynamic radar cruise control (DRCC), and automatic high beam assistance (AHB).
Additionally, it features a blind spot monitoring system (BSM), rear cross-traffic alert (RCTA), and Drive-Start Control to prevent unintended acceleration.
The sales prices for the 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross are as follows:
At the 2024 Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show 2024 (2024 KLIMS), Perodua took the opportunity to showcase the eMO-II electric prototype model this afternoon.
According to Dato’ Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad, the President and CEO of Perodua, this prototype unit is a continuation of the previous prototype model and has been improved in terms of styling and features.
As revealed in a teaser video earlier, the Perodua eMO-II boasts a much sportier design compared to the eMO model.
From the front, the eMO-II features an aggressive bumper design, a full-width LED light bar, a illuminated Perodua logo on the front hood, and the eMO-II branding on the lower bumper.
On the sides, there are sharp air intakes, followed by aerodynamic wheel rims and side cameras that will typically be replaced with side mirrors for the actual production model.
The sporty theme continues at the rear, where the bumper components are adorned with a sizable diffuser design, a single brake light at the center of the bumper, a full-width LED light bar, and the presence of LED graphics resembling traditional songket patterns.
The interior design of the eMO-II deviates from the typical layouts seen in Perodua’s production cars.
In addition to the sporty seating, the eMO-II features a more modern steering wheel design, a wide digital cluster screen, PRND buttons positioned at the top of the center screen, and geometric graphics on the central console.
Currently, Perodua has not revealed the full specifications of the eMO-II, but based on preliminary information, this electric vehicle (EV) is powered by a single front-wheel-drive electric motor with an output of 68 PS and 220 Nm of torque, offering a range of 450 km on a full charge.
However, Dato’ Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad confirmed that Perodua’s first EV will be priced within a range not exceeding RM90,000.
UMW Toyota Motor has launched the ninth-generation Toyota Camry 2025 in conjunction with the Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show 2024 (KLIMS 2024).
The sedan is powered by a Dynamic Force 2.5-liter engine (186 PS/221 Nm) paired with an electric motor producing 136 PS/208 Nm, together resulting in a combined power output of 230 PS with an eCVT transmission.
With its advanced fifth-generation hybrid system, the 2025 Toyota Camry is capable of achieving a total driving range of 1,250 kilometers.
The exterior design of the new Camry features an aggressive theme inspired by the Hammerhead shark, luxurious elements from the Toyota Crown, and air curtains for enhanced handling stability, complemented by 18-inch alloy wheels.
The cabin layout has also been revamped to present a more minimalist and luxurious look, featuring a 12.3-inch digital cluster display, a 12.3-inch central infotainment screen equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, a JBL audio system, and a head-up display.
Additionally, the car offers ventilated seating for the driver and front passenger with lumbar support, an elegant steering wheel design, rear seats that can recline up to eight degrees, control panels in the center armrest, three-zone climate control, wireless smart device charging, and USB charging ports.
There are six color options available: Cement Grey, Dark Blue Mica, Precious Metal, Emotional Red, Platinum White Pearl, and Attitude Black.
In terms of safety, the Camry 2.5 HEV is equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0) system, which includes features such as a pre-collision system, dynamic radar cruise control (DRCC), lane departure alert (LDA), lane tracking assist (LTA), road sign assist (RSA), automatic high beam (AHB), safe exit assist (SEA), as well as additional features like seven airbags, a panoramic view monitor (PVM), and a blind spot monitoring system (BSM).
The starting price for the 2025 Camry is RM248,800.
Many have praised the sleek design of the Tesla Model 3 Highland electric sedan, while others have criticized it for features that complicate life for traditional drivers.
One such feature is the absence of a physical turn signal stalk, which has been replaced with a touch-sensitive button located on the steering wheel.
This change has not been well-received by those accustomed to using a physical turn signal stalk.
The good news is that you can find a solution to this unnecessary issue by purchasing S3XY Stalks from Enhance Auto.
This aftermarket option allows owners to install the device directly onto the steering column without the need to remove the steering wheel.
S3XY Stalks require no wiring and communicate directly with the car’s system using Bluetooth technology.
According to Enhance, this Bluetooth stalk has a battery life of at least a year before it needs to be replaced.
In addition to the function of activating the turn signals, there is a special button at the end of the stalk for user-customizable functions.
The retail price ranges from $343.69 to $363.69 (RM1,537-RM1,626), depending on the selected Tesla model.
In addition to the Tesla Model 3 Highland, these stalks are also compatible with the Model S and Model X.
In our view, this is a prime example of a solution for a problem that should not exist.
We are concerned that one day, manufacturers may offer turn signal stalks as an option rather than as standard factory equipment—a welcomed development for those who refuse to signal on the road.
For the first time in history, Chinese automotive company BYD has successfully sold more vehicles than Ford.
During the third quarter (July-September), BYD sold 1.13 million vehicles, marking a 38 percent increase compared to the same period last year.
In comparison, Ford sold fewer than 40,000 vehicles during the same period, causing the manufacturer to drop one rank, becoming the seventh largest in the world.
However, for the period from January to September, Ford is still ahead of BYD with total sales of 3.3 million units, slightly more than BYD’s 3.25 million units.
It is not impossible that by the end of the year, BYD’s sales could reach 4 million, surpassing Ford’s total sales for the year 2024.
In addition to BYD, several Chinese automotive companies have also reported sales increases that could be concerning for Japanese, European, and American manufacturers.
For example, during Q3, Geely experienced a sales increase of 14 percent, reaching 820,000 vehicles, surpassing Nissan and trailing behind Honda at ninth place.
China’s third-largest manufacturer, Chery, recorded a 27 percent sales increase to 550,000 units, placing it in twelfth position.
Toyota’s sales, however, decreased by 4 percent to 2.73 million units, although the Japanese giant still leads the chart ahead of the VW Group, which saw a 7 percent decline to 2.17 million vehicles.
While Hyundai Motor Group remains comfortably in third place, it also reported a 3 percent sales decline to 1.77 million units.
In fifth place, Stellantis seems to need to work harder as the sales difference with BYD is only around 10,000 units.
Perodua is set to showcase something special at the Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (KLIMS) taking place this week.
Last weekend, Perodua began airing a teaser video for its electric concept model, EMO-II (Electric Mobility Online).
The 30-second video highlights the sporty design elements intended for the EMO-II.
Unique features include a glowing Perodua logo, a full-width front and rear LED light bar, and an aggressive bumper design.
Additionally, the rear of the EMO-II features a large diffuser component, along with a single fog light positioned in the center of the bumper.
According to previously revealed specifications, the Perodua EMO-II is powered by a single front-wheel-drive electric motor generating 68 PS/220 Nm, with a range of up to 450 km on a full charge.
The development of the EMO-II EV prototype was undertaken in collaboration with three local universities: UNITEN, UniKL, and UPM.
Meanwhile, the development of the powertrain technology was executed with a company based in Australia, as there are currently no similar EV models produced by Toyota or Daihatsu at this scale.
Perodua is expected to launch its first electric vehicle (EV) by the end of 2025.
Smart Malaysia has announced that the smart #3 electric crossover has been awarded the title of Best Compact Premium EV at the 2024 Car of the Year (COTY) Awards organized by Carlist.my and Wapcar.
According to Zhang Qiang, the Chief Executive Officer of PRO-NET, “This award is a testament to our strong commitment to delivering an exceptional fully electric crossover experience for our customers.”
“The smart #3 has received an outstanding reception among Malaysians, and we are very grateful to the judges and the smart supporters for this recognition,” he further explained.
Officially launched in the middle of last year, the smart #3 is available in three main variants: Pro, Premium, and the sportier Brabus version.
The Pro and Premium variants are powered by a single rear-wheel-drive electric motor delivering 272 hp and 343 Nm of torque, while the Brabus variant features an additional electric motor on the front axle, bringing the total power output to 428 hp and 543 Nm.
As standard, the smart #3 offers a driving range of 455 km, or 415 km for the Brabus variant.
The smart #3 is priced from RM175,000 to RM255,000.
As we await the official launch of the Proton eMas 7, Geely has made a significant move by launching the Galaxy E5 model (or Geely EX5) in the Thai market.
Two variants are offered in the neighboring country: the Pro variant, priced at THB 859,000 (approximately RM111,000), and the Max variant, which costs THB 949,000 (approximately RM123,000).
The Geely EX5 shares similar specifications with the eMas 7, equipped with a single electric motor delivering 218 PS and 320 Nm of torque.
The Aegis 60.22 kWh battery pack provides a driving range of up to 495 km on a full charge, based on NEDC standards.
The Geely EX5 also supports 11 kW AC charging, allowing it to fully charge in 6.1 hours, as well as 100 kW DC fast charging, which enables charging from 30% to 80% in just 20 minutes.
Unlike the Proton eMas 7, the Geely EX5 comes standard with Apple CarPlay connectivity.
With the official entry of the Geely brand into the Thai market, what will happen to the plans of the Chinese automotive giant to use the Proton brand for the ASEAN market and other right-hand drive markets?
Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP), the exclusive Porsche vehicle distributor in Malaysia, has launched the second-generation Porsche Macan SUV for the local market.
Unlike the first-generation model, the second-generation Macan is now offered exclusively in a fully electric version.
Here are some key facts you need to know about the 2025 Porsche Macan EV:
1. Four Variants
The Porsche Macan EV is available in four main variants:
Macan – RM430,000
Macan 4 – RM445,000
Macan 4S – RM525,000
Macan Turbo – RM635,000
With current EV incentives, the Macan EV is priced lower than the first-generation Macan.
2. RWD or AWD Options
Depending on the specifications, the Macan EV is equipped with either a single electric motor for rear-wheel drive (RWD) or a dual-motor version with an all-wheel drive (AWD) system.
3. Performance
Macan:
340 PS / 563 Nm (boost 350 PS)
0-100 km/h in 5.7 seconds
Top speed: 220 km/h
Macan 4:
387 PS / 650 Nm (boost 408 PS)
0-100 km/h in 5.2 seconds
Top speed: 220 km/h
Macan 4S:
448 PS / 820 Nm (boost 516 PS)
0-100 km/h in 4.1 seconds
Top speed: 240 km/h
Macan Turbo:
584 PS / 1,130 Nm (boost 639 PS)
0-100 km/h in 3.3 seconds
Top speed: 260 km/h
4. Range
All Macan variants come standard with a 100 kWh NMC (nickel manganese cobalt) battery pack.
According to Porsche, the Macan EV can achieve a range of up to 641 km for the base variant, 613 km for the Macan 4, 606 km for the Macan 4S, and 591 km for the Macan Turbo.
5. Charging
The Macan EV supports AC charging at 11 kW, allowing the battery to charge from 0 to 100 percent state of charge (SoC) in approximately 10 hours.
Additionally, DC fast charging of up to 270 kW enables users to charge the battery from 10 to 80 percent in as little as 21 minutes.
6. Dimensions
Compared to the previous model, the Porsche Macan EV measures 4,784 mm in length (+58 mm), 1,938 mm in width (+11 mm), 1,622 mm in height (+26 mm), and has a wheelbase of 2,893 mm (+86 mm).
7. Exterior Design
As an electric vehicle (EV), the exterior design of the Porsche Macan is heavily inspired by the electric sedan, the Taycan.
It features distinctive elements such as separated headlamps, with the upper cluster structure acting as the daytime running light (DRL) unit, while the main headlights are positioned in the bumper.
The rear is equipped with a full-width LED light bar, complemented by an adaptive spoiler that is cleverly integrated.
All four doors come with a frameless window design.
In addition, the Porsche Macan EV is also equipped with a system called Porsche Active Aerodynamics (PAA), which includes components such as active cooling flaps, underheadlight air curtains, Gurney flaps, and diffuser blades that allow this SUV to achieve a drag coefficient as low as 0.25.
8. Cabin Features
Similar to the exterior, the interior of the Macan is also inspired by the Taycan’s cabin.
It includes a 12.6-inch digital instrument cluster, a central 10.9-inch screen, and an optional 10.9-inch display in front of the passenger seat.
The infotainment system of the Porsche Macan runs on the Android Automotive OS and supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The center console still features a cluster of physical buttons necessary for climate control.
9. Practicality
The Porsche Macan offers 540 liters of cargo space behind the second-row seats. If the rear seat backrest is folded down completely, the rear luggage compartment capacity increases to up to 1,348 litres.
In addition, there is an extra 84 liters of storage available in the front trunk (frunk).
Malaysia Airlines’ parent company, Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), received the delivery of its first Airbus A330neo aircraft yesterday.
The A330-900 is the first unit of 20 aircraft leased from Avolon by MAG, setting new standards for fuel efficiency and passenger experience.
The Airbus A330neo is configured with a premium two-class layout featuring 297 seats, including 28 business class seats.
Meanwhile, the economy cabin can accommodate 269 passengers.
Among the amenities offered are spacious overhead storage, improved air quality, the latest in-flight entertainment system, and high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity.
MAS will use the A330neo aircraft for flights across Asia and the Pacific, as well as on selected routes to the Middle East.
MAG is the 20th company to join the group of global operators of the modern, fuel-efficient A330neo aircraft.
To date, Airbus has delivered over 140 units of the A330neo to airlines around the world.
In addition to the introduction of the limited edition A90 Final Edition model, Toyota Gazoo Racing has also updated the GR Supra Lightweight Evo as an equally impressive alternative.
The Lightweight Evo version retains the 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder turbo engine, delivering 382 hp and 500 Nm of torque, and is available with either a manual or automatic transmission.
This model features a more stripped-down design compared to the A90 Final Edition, with the GR Supra Lightweight Evo equipped with distinctive elements such as a carbon fiber ducktail spoiler, new matte black 19-inch wheels, and fins on the front wheel arches.
However, Toyota remains committed to enhancing the handling characteristics, equipping this model with larger Brembo brakes, revised camber angles on the front and rear wheels, and tuning of the electronic shock absorber control.
Additionally, Toyota engineers have reinforced several crucial components, including rubber bushings, rubber mounts, sway bars, and underbody braces.
Finally, the electric power steering system has been recalibrated to provide a better steering feel and handling response.
Inside the cabin, the GR Supra Lightweight Evo features Alcantara-wrapped seats adorned with GR logos, red seatbelts, and red stitching on the gear knob, giving it a sporty appearance.
According to Toyota, although production of the GR Supra A90 is coming to an end, this does not indicate that the model will be neglected.
On the contrary, the GR Supra will continue to thrive in various motorsport disciplines around the world.
Toyota has also indirectly confirmed that the GR Supra will receive a new generation successor, hinted at through an Easter egg featured in a short animated series called GRIP.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has announced a strategic partnership with prestigious hotels, golf course operators, and resorts to further expand its electric vehicle (EV) charging network nationwide.
The following is a list of hotels and golf courses involved in the initial phase:
Rasa Sayang Hotel by Shangri-La (Penang)
Marriott Hotel (Penang)
The RuMa Hotel & Residence (Kuala Lumpur)
Saujana Golf & Country Club (Kuala Lumpur)
Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas (Johor)
Mercedes-Benz customers can now enjoy a variety of additional benefits at these locations by simply presenting their Mercedes-Benz card or app upon check-in.
According to Amanda Zhang, CEO and President of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia, “Mercedes-Benz is always at the forefront of driving the future of mobility and luxury through synergistic and meaningful collaborations.”
“By integrating electric mobility into the luxury lifestyle experience, we are redefining what it means to be a Mercedes-Benz customer,” she added.
She further explained that this long-term strategy aims not only to make electric vehicle ownership more accessible but also to enhance every touchpoint in the customer journey through customized solutions and meaningful partnerships that reflect the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability.
Mercedes-Benz is employing a multi-channel approach to strengthen its EV charging infrastructure, which includes:
Charge@Home: Installation of wall chargers at homes
Charge@Retail: Providing EV charging outlets at Mercedes-Benz showrooms/service centers
Charge@Public: Charging facilities at hotels, resorts, and golf courses
Current Charge Point Operators (CPOs) partnered with Mercedes-Benz include EV Connection, ChargEV, and Gentari.
Whether we realize it or not, the Toyota GR Supra has now been around for five years since it was introduced in 2019.
Before the production of this rear-wheel-drive sports car comes to an end, Toyota Gazoo Racing has launched a limited edition model called the Toyota GR Supra A90 Final Edition.
The original inline-six 3.0-liter turbo engine has been tuned to achieve a power increase of 90 hp and 70 Nm, bringing the total to 435 hp and torque of 570 Nm.
Changes made include a revised airflow, the use of low back-pressure catalytic components, and optimization of engine operation control.
As a result, this Final Edition GR Supra can achieve a higher top speed of approximately 270 km/h.
To maintain peak performance at all times, Toyota has added a baffle plate to the engine oil pan to prevent uneven oil distribution under high G-forces.
The cooling system is enhanced with a radiator fan, a sub-radiator, and larger cooling fins on the differential cover.
Handling has been improved with an adjustable KW suspension system similar to that used in the GR Supra GT4 race car, accompanied by adjustments to the front and rear wheel camber angles for better grip, as well as an active differential control to reduce understeer.
In addition, Toyota has recalibrated the electric steering system for more dynamic, natural, and connected handling, and added a crossbar in the rear cargo space along with strengthened front and rear stabilizer bars.
Drivers will also experience improved cornering stability, thanks to wider Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires that are 10 mm wider, wrapping around lightweight 19-inch front and 20-inch rear rims.
The braking system has been enhanced with high-friction brake pads, front and rear floating drilled rotors, and stainless steel braided brake hoses.
Finally, all these upgrades would be incomplete without a more aggressive appearance.
The Toyota GR Supra A90 Final Edition features an aerodynamic body kit inspired by motorsport involvement, including a carbon fiber front spoiler, front bumper middle canard, front bumper side fins, carbon fiber hood vents, and a carbon fiber goose-neck rear wing.
Additionally, the A90 Final Edition borrows the titanium Akrapovič exhaust from the GR Supra GT4, ensuring a more powerful soundtrack.
Inside the cabin, the GR Supra is equipped with full Recaro Podium bucket seats featuring Alcantara cushion covers and a racy red color scheme for optimal and comfortable driving position, especially under high G-forces.
Production of the GR Supra A90 Final Edition is limited to just 300 units worldwide.
Do you remember the video game Need For Speed: Most Wanted, released in 2005?
Whether you realize it or not, the iconic image of the BMW M3 GTR has haunted us for almost 20 years, and now that model has been brought to life by BMW!
In collaboration with Electronic Arts, BMW has recreated the legendary M3 GTR and will showcase it at the BMW Welt Museum in Munich from November 27, 2024, to January 6, 2025.
The M3 GTR for NFS: Most Wanted is a real racing machine based on the M3 GTR E46, number #42, which was driven by Jörg Müller and J.J. Lehto for the BMW Motorsport team in 2001. It features a livery reminiscent of the hero car from the video game.
For racing purposes, BMW developed a V8 4.0-liter engine (code P60B40) capable of generating 444 hp.
The homologation laws in effect at the time led BMW to produce 10 units of the M3 GTR Strassenversion— the road-legal version.
With the same engine, the BMW M3 GTR Strassenversion delivered reduced power of 380 hp and was paired with a more conventional manual transmission.
This M3 GTR race car later inspired the design of the livery seen on the BMW GTR in NFS: Most Wanted, which became popular among video game fans in 2005.
You can actually ‘drive’ this machine by updating the Need For Speed: Unbound Vol. 9 game, which also features several new vehicle models, including the BMW S1000RR motorcycle.
This is the latest Grand Tourer model from Ferrari bearing a rather unusual and unique name – 12Cilindri.
Yes, 12Cilindri (pronounced as Dodici Cilindri) is the Italian translation for the term meaning 12 cylinders, indicating that this GT model continues to offer a V12 engine.
In terms of model hierarchy, the Ferrari 12Cilindri has been designed to replace the aging 812 Superfast.
Here are some key facts you should know about the Ferrari 12Cilindri entering the Malaysian market:
1. Engine
The Ferrari 12Cilindri is powered by a naturally aspirated (NA) 6.5-liter V12 engine, producing 830 hp at 9,250 rpm and 678 Nm at 7,250 rpm.
There is no hybrid assistance provided for this model; however, Ferrari has managed to comply with all established emission regulations.
2. Modifications Made
Several modifications have been made to this V12 engine, including the use of aluminum connecting rods to reduce rotational mass by 40 percent compared to steel connecting rods.
Additionally, there are aluminum alloy pistons, a lightweight, balanced crankshaft, and ‘sliding finger followers’ with a DLC (Diamond-Like-Carbon) coating borrowed from F1 technology, which reduces friction and enhances the mechanical efficiency of the engine.
3. Transmission
The Ferrari 12Cilindri comes with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, promising a gear shift that is 30 percent faster than that of the 812.
Moreover, Ferrari has introduced a system known as ‘Aspirated Torque Shaping,’ which utilizes electronics to modify torque curves in third and fourth gear ratios.
4. Performance
Acceleration from 0-100 km/h is achieved in just 2.9 seconds, or 7.9 seconds to reach 200 km/h, before attaining a top speed of 340 km/h.
The Spider version is slightly slower, requiring 2.95 seconds to reach 100 km/h and 8.2 seconds to hit 200 km/h.
5. Chassis
The use of a full aluminum body structure makes the 12Cilindri chassis 15 percent stiffer.
Although longer than the 812 Superfast, the 12Cilindri features a wheelbase that is 20 mm shorter, contributing to improved agility in handling.
Essentially, a Ferrari 12Cilindri has a dry weight of around 1,560 kg, while the Spider variant is heavier, weighing approximately 1,620 kg.
6. Design
The front end of the 12Cilindri, reminiscent of wearing glasses, brings to mind the iconic 365 GTB/4 Daytona.
It is equipped with a 21-inch rim set at all four corners, fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport S5 or Goodyear Eagle F1 Supersport tires.
7. Aerodynamic Features
The Ferrari 12Cilindri combines passive and active aerodynamics to ensure a significantly lower drag coefficient (Cd) compared to the 812 Superfast.
For example, the underbody design maximizes vertical load generation, with louvres behind the front wheels to reduce excessive pressure in the engine bay, three vortex generators at the front underside, and active aerodynamic elements functioning between speeds of 60 km/h to 300 km/h to optimize downforce.
8. Cabin Equipment
No analog instrument cluster is provided; instead, the 12Cilindri relies heavily on digital displays, starting with a 15.6-inch screen in front of the driver, a central 10.25-inch screen, and an 8.8-inch screen for the passenger.
The steering wheel is borrowed from the 296 model, complete with capacitive control buttons.
In addition to the V12’s roar, passengers can also enjoy music from the Burmester audio system, which comes equipped with 15 speakers.
Additionally, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionalities are available.
9. Modern Technology
The 12Cilindri benefits from various standard modern features, such as ABS Evo, a brake-by-wire system, Slide Slip Control 8.0 (SSC 8.0) software, and an intelligent four-wheel steering system.
10. Pricing
For the Malaysian market, Ital Auto has set the starting price for the 12Cilindri at RM4.7 million for the coupe version, while the 12Cilindri Spider is priced at RM5.1 million.
The Japanese automotive manufacturer Nissan Motor Co is now in urgent need of finding long-term investors to stabilize its operations amidst restructuring and declining sales.
According to a recent report from The Financial Times, at least two unnamed Nissan executives have confirmed that the brand is seeking new investors.
Nissan is targeting institutional investors such as banking or insurance companies to replace part of Renault’s stake.
The source also indicated that the company may only have a 12 to 14-month window to survive.
Nissan was previously rescued from bankruptcy in 1999 by Renault, which purchased a 36.8 percent stake in the company.
In 2002, Nissan acquired a 15 percent stake in Renault, while Renault increased its stake in Nissan to 43 percent.
However, in 2023, Renault reduced its stake in Nissan to 15 percent, aligning with the percentage that Nissan holds in Renault.
In recent months, Nissan (and Mitsubishi) has reportedly been exploring collaboration with Honda to develop electric vehicles (EVs) and technology software as a way to address competition from Chinese companies.
The collaboration was officially announced in August, but the development has not been well received by former Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn, who described the merger as a disguised acquisition.
“I can’t imagine for one moment how it’s going to work between Honda and Nissan unless it’s a takeover, unless it’s a disguised takeover by Honda of Nissan and Mitsubishi with Honda in the driver’s seat,” Ghosn said.
“It’s going to be a takeover, a disguised takeover.”
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