All posts by Hanif Su'ib

Someone who loves driving manual cars but prefers riding an automatic scooter. Maybe it's an age thing.

MINI Cooper S 5-Door, 204 hp petrol engine, estimated price from RM293k

Apart from the launch of the MINI Aceman electric crossover model, MINI Malaysia at the same time presents another new model, the MINI Cooper S 5-Door.

With larger dimensions (+160 mm) and a longer wheelbase (+72 mm), the Cooper S 5-Door offers a more practical and versatile alternative compared to the 3-Door Cooper model. It also retains the sporty character of the three-door model.

The exterior features a clamshell hood structure, round LED headlamps, octagon grille, 18-inch alloy rims, triangular-shaped rear lights, and a classic bee-sting radio antenna.

Similar to the Aceman, this Cooper S 5-Door showcases an interior design that emphasizes the use of more eco-friendly recycled materials. Features include sports steering wheel, a 240 mm round OLED central screen, ambient lighting system, head-up display screen, and not forgetting the Harman Kardon surround sound system.

The MINI Cooper S 5-Door provides advanced safety features as a standard, including functions such as Lane Change Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Frontal Collision Warning, Rear Traffic Cross Warning, Active Cruise Control, and Parking Assistant Plus function.

In terms of power, the MINI Cooper S 5-Door is powered by a 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo engine producing 204 hp, with the ability to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.8 seconds.

The driving dynamics of this MINI Cooper S 5-Door are enhanced with specific attention to the chassis, suspension system, and more precise steering, followed by the GO-KART driving mode for a sportier experience.

The estimated selling price of the MINI Cooper S 5-Door starts from RM293,000, excluding service packages and additional guarantees worth RM10,400.

MINI Aceman officially launched, electric crossover with 406 km range, priced from RM213,888

MINI Malaysia today officially launched the latest electric crossover model, MINI Aceman, for the local market.

In terms of size, the MINI Aceman is positioned between the MINI Cooper and MINI Countryman models, but still retains the go-kart-like handling characteristics, thanks to its low center of gravity.

It is powered by a single electric motor producing 218 hp/330 Nm, with acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 7.1 seconds.

The 54.2 kWh battery pack allows a range of up to 406 km on a full charge (WLTP data), making it suitable for urban use and weekend driving.

The MINI Aceman supports 11 kW AC charging, as well as fast DC charging up to 95 kW, allowing the battery to be charged from 10-80 percent in just 30 minutes.

This electric crossover is also equipped with automatic battery preconditioning to ensure optimal charging performance and allow users to set the charging time according to their needs.

Externally, the MINI Aceman features an octagonal grille structure, LED headlights, 19-inch rims, roof rails, and body protection plastic that adorns the wheel arches.

Entering the cabin, the MINI Aceman features a 240 mm OLED circular screen powered by MINI Operating System 9, the use of recycled materials for upholstery, a head-up display screen, and a Harman Kardon surround sound system.

The MINI Aceman also provides the GO-KART driving mode, where the throttle becomes more responsive for a more sporty driving experience.


Loaded safety features include Lane Change Warning, Speed Limit Info, Frontal Collision Warning with brake intervention, and Parking Assistant Plus features such as Active Park Distance Control, Reversing Assist Camera, and Remote 3D View.

The selling price of the MINI Aceman starts from RM213,888 with monthly installments as low as RM2,311 through Easy Drive financing based on a 75 percent loan for a five-year period.

The New MINI Aceman will also be showcased at the MINI Roadshows in all major cities, kicking off at The Exchange TRX from the 9th to the 13th of October 2024.

This school will teach you how to drive fast on snow using the GR Corolla

Starting in 2025, a driving school in Colorado will be using a lineup of Toyota Gazoo Racing sports cars, namely the GR Supra, GR86, and GR Corolla for winter driver education program.

This high-performance driving program will offer courses lasting one or two days, where each student will be given driving instructions on a track covered in ice and snow in Steamboat Springs.

The GR lineup will be provided in both manual and automatic versions to allow drivers from various backgrounds to experience handling these high-adrenaline machines for themselves. However, for the regular driving program, the school will still maintain the use of Toyota all-wheel-drive vehicles such as the Camry sedan, Highlander SUV, and 4Runner.

Opened since 1983, the Bridgestone Winter Driving School has been responsible for providing driving instructions to nearly 100,000 drivers to be more confident driving in low-grip road conditions.


For us, a great program like this should be extended to Malaysians, especially sports car and electric vehicle (EV) owners, so they can learn to handle high-powered cars in various weather conditions.

Although Malaysia does not have a snow season, these skills can be applied to driving on slippery roads, especially considering the recent high rainfall in our country.

The fact is, many people can afford fast cars, but only a few have the awareness to upgrade their own skills.

Boon Siew launches limited-time campaign, buy RS-X and get RM300 TnG e-wallet credit!

Boon Siew Honda has announced a limited-time campaign for enthusiasts of the popular Honda RS-X motorcycle.

Starting from the 7th to the 31st of October, customers who purchase a Honda RS-X will receive RM300 worth of Touch ‘n Go e-wallet credit.

The TnG e-wallet credit can be used to purchase fuel, allowing RS-X owners to enjoy journeys of over 7,000 km.

To qualify for the mentioned benefits, customers only need to register their motorcycles during the campaign period and then proceed to the Honda X  to receive the RM300 e-wallet credit directly.

The Honda RS-X is still powered by a 149cc single-cylinder engine capable of producing 15.8 hp and 13.6 Nm of torque, paired with a six-speed gearbox.

In addition to being recognized as an Energy Efficient Vehicle (EEV), the Honda RS-X has also achieved a five-star rating in MyMAP for its standard single-channel ABS feature.

The recommended retail price starts from RM9,798.

Honda N-BOX still remains the best-selling car in Japan

Despite Honda’s overall sales figures being difficult to surpass those of the Japanese giant Toyota, at the very least, Honda has managed to prove that it can be the best-selling model there.

The model in question is the Honda N-BOX kei car.

Yes, this boxy car is not only popular among kei car enthusiasts here, but it also holds a significant name and can outshine its competitors.

According to a report from Response JP, the Honda N-BOX recorded sales of 102,226 units during the first half of the fiscal year 2024 (April-September), marking an increase of 1.8 percent compared to the same period last year.

This makes the Honda N-BOX the best-selling car for the third consecutive year!

The second place is held by the kei car Suzuki Spacia (80,179 units), followed by the Toyota Corolla (77,030 units), and the Toyota Yaris (73,052 units).

Impacted by the safety scandal issue, the popular car Daihatsu Tanto dropped three ranks to sixth place, with sales of 53,177 units, marking a decrease of 26.3 percent.

An interesting point coming from the Land of the Rising Sun is the rather slow transition rate to EVs, where EVs only make up 1.3 percent of new vehicle sales, marking a decrease of 0.6 percent.

3 things we don’t like about the Ora 07 Long Range – Test Drive

The electric sedan Ora 07, or also known as Ora Lightning Cat, may well be a unique EV package in the Malaysian market at this time.

It brings a package of aesthetics inspired by million-dollar models, while still being fairly affordable.

We’ve already shared a test drive review before, but in this article, we will discuss three things that are less favored in this model.

 

1. The ‘most red’ tail light housing

The exterior design of this Ora 07 is indeed feminine and looks simple, complete with an adaptive spoiler.

However, the less favored aspect is the entirely red tail light housing structure.

During daytime driving, other road users may find it difficult to guess whether the driver has already signaled to turn or is intending to enter an intersection using ‘niat’.

 

2. No analog meter theme options

We quite like the ‘cluster’ of Porsche 911-style meters present in the Ora 07’s cabin space.

It looks classic and modern at the same time.

However, its shortcoming is that it does not offer analog meter theme options to suit the masculine driving spirit of this Ora 07.

But honestly, the display of these meter graphics is much neater compared to other Chinese-made sedans in the market.

 

3. Easy but complicated-to-use convenience

As someone who doesn’t want driving focus disrupted on the road, the writer greatly appreciates the presence of a manual fan speed button in the center console for the air conditioning system.

This means it’s very easy to adjust the temperature and the speed of the cool air in the cabin.

However, that’s it.

Other functions such as the direction of the air need to be adjusted through a hidden menu on the infotainment screen, and there are no manual stalk available on the air vents!

You can read the full Ora 07 test drive report at the link below:

Ora 07 Long Range, feminine EV with masculine personality – Test Drive

 

McLaren W1, F1 & P1 modern successor, only 399 units on Earth

Welcome McLaren W1, the modern heir to the “1” series models McLaren F1 and P1.

The McLaren W1 is powered by a flat-plane V8 engine with a 90-degree angle and a 4.0-liter twin-turbo twin-turbocharged unit (MHP-8 code) that redlines at 9,200 rpm.

Paired with the 342 hp E-Module borrowed from IndyCar and Formula One, the McLaren W1 is capable of generating a total output of 1,258 hp and 1,340 Nm of torque, mated with an 8-speed automatic gearbox.

This makes it the most powerful McLaren supercar ever produced.

Weighing around 1,399 kg, the W1 also boasts the best power-to-weight ratio in its class, at 899 hp/ton.

This power is transferred to the rear wheels to achieve acceleration times of 2.7 seconds (0-100 km/h), 5.8 seconds (200 km/h), and 12.8 seconds (300 km/h) before reaching a top speed of 350 km/h.

The aforementioned E-Module is lighter than the unit found in the P1 model.

The battery pack has a capacity of only 1,384 kWh for emission-free travel up to 2.6 km, which is more than adequate considering the motor and battery are also used for reverse mode.

The active aerodynamic features on the W1 model draw inspiration from their F1 racing machines, with over 350 hours spent in the wind tunnel.

During racing mode, the McLaren W1 can ‘shape-shift’ where the Active Long Tail rear wing can act as an air brake component and DRS wing.

Additionally, the vehicle can be lowered by 37 mm at the front and 17.8 mm at the rear in the same mode.

With active wing systems and Active Chassis Control III, the McLaren W1 is capable of generating up to 350 kg of downforce at the front and 650 kg at the rear, with a total downforce of up to 1,000 kg in high-speed corners.

This 1,399 kg vehicle uses a carbon ceramic brake system with six-piston calipers at the front axle, followed by four-piston calipers at the rear.

Stopping distance is only 29 meters from 100 km/h to standstill, or 100 meters from 200 km/h.

As standard, the McLaren W1 comes equipped with Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS tires sized 265/35 at the front and 335/30 at the rear.

For street use, McLaren offers P Zero R or P Zero Winter 2 tires.

The W1 cabin is equipped with a compact steering wheel, followed by an eight-inch central screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, USB-A and C charging ports, and a small storage space behind the seats.

Only 399 units of the McLaren W1 will be produced, each priced from $2.1 million (RM8.87 million) and all units have already been sold out.

2024 Mitsubishi Xpander facelift, 5 things u need to know – First Drive

Despite arriving to the Malaysian market quite late, the Mitsubishi Xpander has managed to become the best-selling non-national MPV, with over 40,000 units sold.

We believe the influence of the Xpander will strengthen here with the introduction of the Xpander 2024 facelift model, which was launched last month.

Especially for fathers looking for a suitable vehicle for family use.

Last week, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia invited media practitioners to experience the driving experience of the Xpander facelift heading towards Malacca.

Based on the drive, what we can conclude is that the Xpander facelift can still be an ideal vehicle for contemporary family use.

Here are 5 things u need to know after driving the Xpander facelift:

 

1. More modern exterior appearance


Overall, the design of the Xpander has not changed much, except for the front fascia that now features a more modern and sleek Dynamic Shield design.

The T-shaped LED headlamps are enhanced with a cluster of LED lights that combine daytime running lights (DRL) and turn indicator lights.

The grille design also looks sleeker on the facelift model.

For the rear end, the redesigned lamp shape now features a T-shaped graphic that contributes to the changes in the rearview mirror shape.

Those opting for the Xpander Plus variant will receive additional features such as window visors and a black rear spoiler that is not overly aggressive but still manages to provide a sporty image.

Lastly, all four wheel arches are fitted with 17-inch rims wrapped in Bridgestone Ecopia tires.

 

2. More refined cabin space

Significant changes have been made to the cabin space, where the layout of the dashboard is now more refined.

As standard, the Xpander facelift still offers a 9-inch infotainment screen, a 4.2-inch TFT cluster screen with analog meter display, climate control with a digital display, and a steering wheel inspired by the Evo X sedan.

Despite coming with basic functions, the leatherette-wrapped seats remain comfortable to use, especially for long journeys.

The writer’s favorite feature is the available space provided when the new Xpander facelift replaces the physical handbrake with an electronic brake button.

It looks more organized and at the same time does not make the driving experience of this Xpander less practical.

You should know that the Xpander facelift now comes with several advanced features like wireless Qi smart device charging slot, front and rear driving recorders, and most importantly a 360-degree camera.

The use of soft-touch materials in certain areas also enhances a premium driving experience.

 

3. Practicality for the whole family

Compared to its competitors, the Xpander facelift has its own advantages, namely a more spacious cabin due to its larger dimensions.

There are no issues accommodating passengers in the third row seats as they are indeed comfortable to use.

If there are no additional passengers, the seats can be folded to provide a space of 837 liters, in addition to three additional hidden storage spaces in the cargo area.

Furthermore, there are plenty of small storage spaces provided around the cabin, especially in the door panels, small trays on the dashboard, a drawer under the front passenger seat, and small pockets behind the front seats.

 

4. Driving dynamics


What hasn’t changed with the Xpander facelift is the inline four-cylinder 1.5-liter engine producing 105 PS and 141 Nm of power, mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission.

Yes, it sounds somewhat outdated, considering that the average competitor is equipped with CVT or DCT transmissions.

It’s not the most modern gearbox, but it is retained to ensure owners need not worry about the durability and reliability of this component.

As a result, it can be said that the driving experience of the Xpander has not changed much in terms of power delivery and acceleration offered.


It still manages smooth gear changes, and at the same time, the issue of gear hunting does not haunt the driver during downshifts or hill climbs.

We experienced this on winding roads around Hulu Langat, but for regular highway driving, the engine and gearbox combination is more than sufficient.

At the same time, we can feel that the noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels in the Xpander facelift cabin have improved compared to the previous model.

The engine noise is effectively filtered, while wind noise is only noticeable after exceeding 160 km/h.

 

5. Handling

Another aspect that makes the writer understand why the Xpander is the top choice is the comfort it offers.

If the previous Xpander already proved its own comfort for long journeys, this Xpander facelift takes it up another notch.

According to Mitsubishi, the rear suspension of this MPV has been retuned with larger shock absorbers to ensure a more comfortable driving experience.

It’s not surprising that we struggled to feel any significant roughness when the tires met uneven road surfaces.

To say the handling is on par with the Evo X would be a lie. But the Xpander facelift can be well-controlled on straight roads as well as on winding roads without disturbing the comfort of passengers in the back.


However, due to the higher ground clearance (225 mm), stability is felt to be somewhat lacking, especially when traversing crosswinds on the highway.

This may also be due to the use of Bridgestone Ecopia tires, which were felt to have less grip compared to the Toyo Proxes CR1 tires used in the previous model, although they are quieter.

One thing for sure, as a driver of the Xpander facelift, you need not worry about traversing uneven routes in rural and suburban areas, thanks to the higher ground clearance package compared to other competitors.

Based on the test drive conducted recently, the Mitsubishi Xpander 2024 facelift seems to be a viable choice for families in Malaysia, especially for those who prioritize comfort and practicality.

 

Mitsubishi Xpander 2024 (facelift) specifications
Engine: inline four-cylinder 1.5-liter MIVEC
Power: 105 PS @ 6,000 rpm
Torque: 141 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
Transmission: 4-speed Automatic
Drive: Front-Wheel Drive
Price: from RM99,980

Mercedes-AMG One breaks its own record at the Green Hell, 6 minutes 29 seconds!

After two years, Mercedes-AMG returned to the Green Hell track to break its own record in the fastest production vehicle category.

The Mercedes-AMG One, driven by DTM racer Maro Engel, successfully set a lap record of 6 minutes 29.090 seconds, more than five seconds faster than the previous record of 6:35.183.

This achievement also positions the Mercedes-AMG One as the first production vehicle to break the 6:30-minute barrier on the famous track.

The record attempt took place on September 23, during which the Nurburgring track recorded a temperature as low as 15 degrees Celsius and an asphalt temperature of 20 degrees Celsius.

The F1 engine-based hypercar is equipped with bespoke Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO tires designed specifically for the AMG One.

During the attempt, the AMG One test driver utilized the Race Plus driving mode, which lowered the front axle by 37 mm and the rear axle by 30 mm.

Additionally, the AMG One vehicle was fine-tuned with the maximum allowable camber values, as well as utilizing drag reduction system (DRS) and a more efficient hybrid battery system based on previous simulation tests.

The Mercedes-AMG One features a 1.6-liter V6 F1 engine, paired with four electric motors for a total power output of 1,049 hp.

MSF introduces new Myvi Cup category, dedicated to the ‘King of the Road!’

In addition to being the king of the road, Perodua Myvi owners can now aim to pursue the title of circuit racing king through the introduction of the Myvi Cup category at the Malaysia Speed Festival (MSF).

The latest racing category will make its official debut in Round 6 of the MSF Superturismo at the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit on November 10.

The Myvi Cup is an initiative introduced by MSF and is open to all types of Perodua Myvi sold in the Malaysian market.

There are two sub-categories being contested, namely Pro and Casual, which will be differentiated based on the drivers’ skill levels by the race organizers.

Similar to the Saga Cup, each competing vehicle must have permitted racing and safety components while retaining the car’s original components at the same time.

For example, the front brakes must maintain the original factory specifications, followed by the use of drum brakes at the rear.

However, drivers are allowed to use aftermarket components such as slotted rotors, brake pads, and brake hoses that can be directly fitted without modification.

Additionally, drivers must use the original engine block, throttle body, and intake manifold (can be modified but the external parts must appear standard), followed by the original ECU (can be re-tuned/reflashed) and Myvi’s original gearbox (modifiable final drive ratio).

The use of standalone computer units is strictly prohibited, as well as the use of dog-box and sequential gearbox. All cars must retain front-wheel drive and are not allowed to use LSD components.

According to MSF Superturismo principal, Adian Yein Khalid, “MSF’s philosophy is to make racing more accessible and affordable to the public.

“The Saga Cup has proven successful with over 75 cars participating and nearly 200 drivers taking part in each round.

“The introduction of the Myvi Cup is a step towards greater diversity in motorsports. Contrary to common belief, the Myvi has proven that it is capable of being fast and competitive on the track.”

Zeekr 009 opens for bookings, competing with Alphard/Vellfire, priced below RM370k

In addition to the Zeekr X, Zeekr Malaysia has also opened bookings for another electric model, the Zeekr 009 minivan.

Targeted as a competitor to the popular Alphard/Vellfire MPVs, the Zeekr 009 offers a package that is much more spacious, powerful, and at the same time, more affordable.

Two variants are offered, namely the Luxury with a seven-seater configuration, and the Ultra Luxury with six seats.

This electric MPV comes with twin electric motors producing 603 hp and 693 Nm, powering all wheels (AWD), achieving acceleration from 0-100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds.

The 116 kWh battery pack offers a driving range of up to 582 km (WLTP data), in addition to supporting fast DC charging at 150 kW (charging from 10 to 80 percent in 30 minutes).

The driving aspect of the Zeekr 009 is assisted by a double-wishbone multilink suspension system, electromagnetic air suspension, and automatic balancing function, along with matrix LED lighting with adaptive driving beam (ADB) and smart zone lighting functions.

The Zeekr 009’s cabin space is equipped with a 10.25-inch cluster meter, a 15.05-inch infotainment screen, a 35.95-inch augmented reality (AR) head-up display, a 17-inch OLED roof screen, Yamaha surround sound system, 50W wireless smart device charging, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, and up to 9 USB-C ports available.

The driver and front passenger seats are provided with 12-way adjustment, massage function, ventilation, and memory.

Meanwhile, the second-row passengers are provided with Sofaro First Class Aeronautics seats with an Ultra Long Electric Slide Rail function extending 1.1 meters, adjustable footrest, ventilation, massage, and memory functions.

The ADAS system includes features such as lane centering control (LCC), adaptive cruise control (ACC), front (CMSF) and rear (CMSR) collision mitigation support, lane departure prevention, blind spot detection (BSD), door opening alerts, and driver performance monitoring system (DPM).

For the Malaysian market, the estimated price of the Zeekr 009 starts from RM370,000 with a reservation fee of RM4,000.

Zeekr X opens for booking, two variants, 0-100 km/h in 4.8s, estimated price below RM180k

Zeekr Malaysia today officially opens booking for the urban electric SUV model Zeekr X for the local market.

The Zeekr X is offered in two main variants, namely Premium and Flagship AWD.

The Premium version is powered by a rear-wheel-drive electric motor with 268 hp, accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 5.6 seconds.

Meanwhile, the Flagship AWD version comes with two electric motors generating 422 hp, achieving a 0-100 km/h acceleration in just 3.8 seconds.

A 66 kWh battery pack comes as standard, allowing a range of up to 440 km, in addition to supporting fast DC charging at 150 kW (10-80 percent charging in 30 minutes).

There are five color options including Crystal White, Mist Grey, Grid Grey, Palace Beige, and Pine Green, while the interior cabin is available in Charcoal Black and Stone Grey.

The Zeekr X also comes equipped with ADAS features, including Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Automatic Lane Changing (ALC), Lane Centering Control (LCC), Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Front (CMSF) and Rear (CMSR) Collision Mitigation Support, Front (FCTA) and Rear (RCTA) Cross-Traffic Avoidance Support, and more.

Additionally, the Zeekr X is equipped with seven airbags, a 360-degree camera system, and a dashcam for recording driving footage.

The estimated price range for the Zeekr X starts from RM180,000, with buyers required to pay a reservation fee of RM2,000.

Mitsubishi reveals 7-Seater SUV concept, Outlander replacement?

Mitsubishi is set to unveil a concept model for a seven-seater SUV at the 2024 Philippine International Motor Show from October 24-27.

Based on the teaser images released, the new model appears to share the front-end design with the Xforce SUV, while the grille design resembles that of the Outlander.

Another image showcases a rather stylish C-pillar design, followed by more prominent shoulder lines.

As usual, no detailed information regarding the model has been disclosed, whether it concerns its size or its platform (monocoque or pickup truck) at the moment.

One possibility is that this model is expected to replace the current Outlander offering, given that the new generation Outlander is now much more advanced and premium for the ASEAN market.

Considering the design similarities, we anticipate that this concept model is a hint towards the presence of a three-row seating version of the Xforce, in line with the brand’s commitment to produce models suitable for ASEAN drivers.

If this holds true, the concept model might possibly share the same 1.5-liter heart used in the Xforce, producing 103 hp paired with a CVT transmission driving the front wheels.

More information will be revealed towards the end of this month.

Gran Turismo 7 announces new cars: Nissan GT-R T-Spec, Lancer Evo VIII, Hiace DX!

The developers of the Gran Turismo 7 simulation game, Polyphony Digital, have announced the release of update 1.52, which is available for download starting today (October 3).

Three new cars that can be driven in the game include the Nissan GT-R Premium Edition T-Spec 2024, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII MR GSR 2004, and a commercial van, the Toyota Hiace DX 2016.0.

In the real world, the Nissan GT-R T-Spec can be distinguished by exclusive features such as carbon ceramic brakes, a carbon fiber rear spoiler, an engine cover, and two iconic colors: Midnight Purple and Millenium Jade.

The addition of the Lancer Evo 8 to the Lancer Evolution CT9A family in Gran Turismo 7 follows the introduction of the Evo IX model earlier this year.

Meanwhile, the new Toyota Hiace added to GT7 is a commercial van version of the original model used for passenger transport, unlike the HiMedic ambulance, which has been modified for emergency use.

Gran Turismo 7 also introduces several new events in the World Circuits menu, such as those in Tokyo Expressway, Circuit de Sainte-Croix, and Kyoto Driving Park.


2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII MR GSR

2024 Nissan GT-R Premium Edition T-Spec 

2016 Toyota Hiace DX

Proton S70 R3 race car is now ready to shake up Sepang 1000KM

Proton seems to be ready to shake up the Sepang International Circuit this year with its all-new race car, the Proton S70 R3.

Based on a video uploaded, the sedan was undergoing testing at the Proton Shah Alam circuit with the participation of Proton’s Deputy CEO, Roslan Abdullah.

At this time, Proton has not disclosed detailed specifications of the S70 race car.

However, based on the high engine roar of the S70 during testing on the large dyno machine, it is highly likely that the sedan retains the naturally aspirated Campro 1.6-liter engine used in previous Proton race cars.

 

In comparison to the previously revealed S70 R3 model, the S70 R3 race car comes with a larger rear spoiler, accompanied by Raxer Wheels wrapped in Hankook Ventus TD tires.

Furthermore, the S70 race car is equipped with various racing equipment such as racing seats, safety cage, Motec instrument display, and much more.

The last time Proton participated in the S1K race was in 2019, so what are your expectations for the actual performance of this Proton S70 R3?

Let’s all witness its appearance at the Sepang International Circuit together.

 

Eligibility criteria for Class B licence upgrade have been relaxed immediately – Anthony Loke

The eligibility criteria for the Malaysian Driving Licence (LLM) Special Transition Programme for motorcyclists from class B1 and B2 to class B (high-powered motorcycles), which began yesterday, have been immediately relaxed following public complaints, according to Bernama.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook said one of the original conditions required individuals to hold an active LMM class B1 or B2 licence for at least 10 consecutive years.

After considering public feedback, the matter was discussed with Road Transport Department (JPJ) director-general Aedy Fadly Ramli, who agreed to ease the requirement.

“The condition has been relaxed with immediate effect, so now the LMM only needs to have been active for 10 years or more, without requiring those years to be consecutive,” he said at a press conference today.

He said that one of the reasons cited by the public was reasonable, which is being unable to renew their licences due to the Movement Control Order (MCO) in 2020.

At that time, the government granted an exemption to all licence holders from renewing their driving licences during the MCO period.

However, other conditions remain unchanged, including the requirement that applicants must not be on any blacklist or have outstanding summonses.

Loke added that updates will be made to ensure more applicants qualify and benefit from the programme.

“We are implementing this system change immediately to make it easier for the public. We ask for patience, and within a few days, applicants can participate in the programme at the involved driving institutes,” he said.

2026 Honda Prelude will pair a 2.0L hybrid engine with a manual gearbox!

The hot hatch Civic Type R FL5 appears to not be the last Honda sports model equipped with a manual transmission.

This is because in the latest news emerging from the Land of the Rising Sun, Honda is reported to offer the Prelude with a combination of a hybrid powertrain unit and a manual transmission.


According to sources quoted by Best Car, Honda engineers will match a 2.0-liter hybrid engine borrowed from the Accord model with a six-speed manual gearbox derived from the Civic RS.

It is also said to have the same rev-match function found in the Civic Type R model!

If this news indeed becomes a reality, the Honda Prelude will become Honda’s first hybrid model paired with a manual gearbox after the end of production of the CR-Z hybrid model in 2016.


In the Accord e:HEV model, the 2.0-liter Atkinson cycle hybrid engine is capable of generating up to 204 hp and 335 Nm of torque, channeled to the wheels through an e-CVT transmission.

The Honda Prelude is said to be based on the Honda Civic, with a wheelbase of 2,735 mm remaining constant but the overall length being only about 2,480 mm, shorter than the Civic.

This Honda Prelude will make its official debut in the second half of 2025.

Royal Enfield organizes One Ride convoy across the world, 523 riders from Malaysia participated!

On the 22nd of September, the Royal Enfield motorcycle community organized a large-scale ‘One Ride’ convoy globally to celebrate the spirit of “Pure Motorcycling”.

Introduced since 2011, this event has been globally embraced in 43 countries, gathering enthusiasts of all ages and social identities while showcasing their unique personalities.

This year’s One Ride event carries the theme ‘Be Bold, Be Seen, Be One’, encouraging participants to practice safe riding, responsible travel, and to be a symbol of self-expression.


A total of over 41,730 motorcycle riders participated from 66 countries globally, with more than 6,200 entries coming from the Asia Pacific region.

The response in Malaysia was also remarkable, with 523 Royal Enfield motorcycle riders taking part in the One Ride event.

In addition to Malaysia, One Ride was also celebrated in several countries including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Colombia, Dubai, the Philippines, Ecuador, Indonesia, Italy, Germany, Japan, Cambodia, Korea, Mexico, France, Peru, Spain, Thailand, and Uruguay.

2024 Mitsubishi Triton now open for booking, five variants, priced from RM102,000

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) today officially opened bookings for the sixth generation of the 2024 Mitsubishi Triton pickup truck model.

Offered in five variants, the estimated selling price of the Mitsubishi Triton starts from RM102,000 for the Single Cab variant, and from RM170,000 for the Triton Athlete variant.

The all-new Mitsubishi Triton brings significant exterior and interior changes.


It now features the new Beast Mode design language, a new 2.4-liter turbo diesel engine (4N16) capable of generating 184 PS/350 Nm of torque (Single Cab), or as high as 204 PS/470 Nm for the highest variant.

The new Triton also comes with a newly developed mega frame chassis offering durability and robustness, as well as a larger body size compared to the previous model.

The new suspension system now offers enhanced handling stability and driving comfort, accompanied by the Super Select-II four-wheel drive system and seven driving modes.

The safety aspect of this pickup truck has been enhanced with Active Yaw Control function, and the most advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).


It also offers modern conveniences such as wireless device charging slot, support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as various storage spaces available inside the cabin.

Finally, for those in need of a workhorse, the Triton Single Cab offers the largest cargo deck in its segment, with dimensions of 2,340 mm width and 1,580 mm length.

For the first 500 customers who book the Mitsubishi Triton 2024 pickup truck, they will receive a 60-liter foldable storage box valued at RM450.

Global Toyota output dropped by 11.2 percent due to safety scandal, typhoon turmoil

Toyota Motor Corp confirmed in a statement last Friday that the total production volume globally in August decreased by 11.2 percent to 709,571 units compared to the same period last year.

This decline was caused by a vehicle certification test scandal and temporary factory closures due to a typhoon that struck Japan in late August.

Additionally, domestic production figures also decreased by 22.2 percent to 185,680 units as popular models such as Corolla Axio, Corolla Fielder, and Yaris Cross remained suspended since last June.

Toyota resumed the assembly operations of these three models at the beginning of September after the Japanese Ministry of Transport confirmed the vehicle safety aspects.

Domestic sales performance in Japan also recorded a decrease of 9.1 percent to 109,505 units.

Meanwhile, Toyota’s vehicle production outside of Japan also showed a decline, dropping by 6.5 percent to 523,891 units after a recall campaign involving the Grand Highlander and Lexus TX models in North America.

The Japanese manufacturer faces fierce competition in mainland China, where sales declined by 13.5 percent.

In addition to Toyota, Nissan experienced a 15.5 percent decrease to 236,016 units due to weak X-Trail SUV sales in China, while Honda witnessed an 11.3 percent decline to 307,870 units.