All posts by Hanif Su'ib

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

2024 Suzuki V-Strom 250 SX officially launched, price from RM17,800

Suzuki Malaysia has recently launched a 250cc adventure vehicle, the 2024 Suzuki V-Strom 250 SX for the local market after being first unveiled at last year’s KL Bike Show.

It is powered by a 249cc SOHC single-cylinder engine capable of producing up to 26.1 hp @ 9,300 rpm and torque of 22.2 Nm @ 7,300 rpm, assisted by the Suzuki Oil Cooling System (SOCS) and Suzuki Easy Start System.

Features packed into this vehicle include telescopic front fork, single shock absorber with seven-stage preload adjustability, and 19-inch and 17-inch rims wrapped in MRF semi-block tires.

A dual-channel ABS system is provided as a standard feature complementing the disc brake system consisting of 310 mm front rotors and 240 mm rear rotors.

Furthermore, the Suzuki V-Strom 250 SX also showcases LED front and rear lighting units, sporty graphics, twin outlet exhaust muffler, windscreen, handlebar guard, and aluminum rear rack.

All essential information can be viewed through the negative LCD display screen, complete with customizable RPM indicator lights for the rider, and a USB slot for smart device charging.

The fuel tank capacity is 12 liters, accompanied by a ground clearance of 205 mm while the saddle height stands at approximately 835 mm.

Various accessories are also available, including handguard, 27-liter storage box, heated handlebar grips, fuel tank cover, wheel decals, and a choice of a 25 mm lower seat.

The 2024 Suzuki V-Strom 250 SX is available in three colors, namely Champion Yellow No. 2, Pearl Blaze Orange, and Glass Sparkle Black.

The selling price for the Malaysian market starts at RM17,800.

2024 GR GT Cup, Taj Aiman claims his fourth title

In the final round of the GR GT Cup Malaysia simulation race held at Sunway University Campus the other day, Taj Izrin Aiman Taj Madira emerged as the champion for the fourth consecutive time.

The 26-year-old teenager has now become the most successful simulation racer in the GR GT Cup Malaysia series, accumulating a total of 59 points, leaving Chong Kai Chang in second place and 2022 champion Muhammad Iqbal Suji in third.

With a total prize pool worth RM120,500, the GR GT Cup Malaysia is the most lucrative simulation racing series ever organized in the country.

According to Taj Izrin Aiman, he made the decision not to change tires when the rain began to fall after two laps, and this bold move allowed him to overtake other racers.

Chong is satisfied with improving his position from third place last year to second place this year.

He, who took home the RM15,000 prize, often practices with his friends using various racing strategies due to the major update received by Gran Turismo 7 involving game physics several days before the final event took place.

The third place was taken by Muhammad Iqbal, bringing home a cash prize of RM12,000.

UMW Toyota’s President Datuk Ravindran K said, “Throughout the seven seasons of organizing the GR GT Cup Malaysia, the competition has become increasingly intense, and each year the driving skills and level of race craft displayed by the finalists are at a higher level.

“This is what we at Toyota aim to achieve, and I am very pleased that we can make an impact on motorsports in Malaysia, whether in the virtual world or through racing circuits such as the GR Vios Challenge and GR Young Driver Development Program.”

The GR GT Cup Malaysia 2024 also featured a race involving 10 finalists selected from the GR GT Cup Malaysia Campus Tour.

Among those who garnered attention was the presence of 14-year-old young racer Ethen Low from St Michael’s Institution, who managed to seize second place.

Meanwhile, Raja Amirul Syauqat has been selected to join the GAZOO Racing Young Driver Development Program and is expected to make an appearance in the Vios Challenge through the Rookie Class.

Additionally, there was a special race organized for Toyota GAZOO Racing rookie racers and media practitioners, aside from the Team Championship, where finalists from the GR GT Cup were combined with Campus Tour participants with the aim of finding new talent to be guided by professional racers.

2025 Toyota GR Corolla now available with automatic transmission

Good news for those looking for a practical GR vehicle for daily use.

This is because Toyota has just updated the five-door hot hatch GR Corolla for the 2025 model year by offering an automatic gearbox as an option alongside the six-speed manual transmission variant.

The Direct Automatic Transmission (DAT) gearbox has made its official debut through the previous GR Yaris hot hatch model earlier this year.

Unlike the auto transmission found in the GR Supra and GR86, which shift gears based on speed and G-force, the GR Corolla gearbox uses input from the brake pedal and throttle to anticipate the optimal time to shift gears.

In addition, Toyota has also reprogrammed the automatic transmission to offer gear ratios almost equivalent to those of a manual transmission, in addition to coming with a standard transmission cooling system.

The G16E-GTS 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine is capable of producing up to 300 hp, with the torque figure increased from 370 Nm to 400 Nm.

All 2025 GR Corolla variants now come standard with front and rear Torsen limited-slip differentials (LSD), along with a retuned suspension system for a more sporty driving experience.

For the 2025 model year, slight changes have been made to the front bumper where the GR Corolla now features improved brake cooling ducts and air curtains capable of reducing aerodynamic drag around the tires.

Toyota also offers an additional sub-radiator for extra cooling as standard for the Premium Plus model or as an option for the Premium model.

There have not been many changes made to the interior cabin, except for the addition of paddle shifters on the steering wheel, along with Launch Control system as standard for the DAT model.

Information regarding additional specifications and pricing will only be announced when the GR Corolla 2025 hits the dealerships in the upcoming winter season.

10 vehicles with the longest production periods

Toyota Corolla is perhaps a name widely known as the best-selling passenger car model on the face of the earth.

The Patent-Motorwagen model that appeared in 1885 is also recognized as the pioneer of modern cars.

But did you know, which vehicle model has the longest production period? Is it a Toyota?

Here is a list of 10 vehicles with the longest production periods in the world.

 

1. Chevrolet Suburban – 90 years

First produced in 1934, Chevrolet Suburban is recognized as the longest-running automobile nameplate in the world, spanning 12 generations to date.

It is also an iconic car, being recognized on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for its role in pop culture.

 

2. Ford F-Series – 76 years

The most popular truck model in the United States is also the longest-produced truck model.

It has also been named as the best-selling truck in the US since 1981.

 

3. VW Transporter – 74 years

With over 12 million units, the VW Transporter is the best-selling van.

The Transporter has various variants including vans, minibuses, minivans, campervans, and pickups!

 

4. Land Cruiser – 73 years

Produced since 1951, the Land Cruiser is the longest-produced Toyota model, with sales exceeding 10 million units worldwide.

Despite being in a new generation, the Land Cruiser 70 Series, first produced since 1984, is still offered as a new model for 2024.

 

5. Chevrolet Corvette – 71 years

This iconic American sports car has been in production since 1953, and is now in its eighth generation.

The recently launched 2025 Corvette ZR1 is the most powerful Corvette model ever produced, with 1,064 hp and 1,123 Nm!

 

6. Mercedes-Benz S-Class – 70 years

Better known as Sonderklasse, the S-Class is a full-size luxury sedan that has been produced in several generations.

Although it has been produced since 1954, the S-Class name was officially used in 1972 for the W116 generation model after the W108 generation was discontinued.

 

7. Toyota Crown – 69 years

The Toyota Crown is marketed as a mid-size luxury sedan as an alternative to competitors like the Nissan Cedric, Honda Legend, Mazda Luce, Isuzu Bellel, and Mitsubishi Debonair.

In addition to being popular as a government official’s car, the Toyota Crown is also used as a police patrol car and taxi in Japan.

 

8. Nissan Skyline – 67 years

At the independence of Malaya, an iconic name was born by the Prince Motor Company, the Skyline.

To date, 13 generations of the Skyline have existed on the face of the earth, including several high-performance GT-R generations. For your information, the R35 is not classified as part of the Skyline family.

 

9. Mini – 65 years

Designed by Sir Alec Issigonis, the Mini is a small car produced by the British Motor Company (BMC) as a result of the fuel shortage crisis experienced in the UK in 1956.

Using the same platform, this original Mini was produced from 1959 until 2000 in hatchback, wagon, and convertible forms.

 

10. Porsche 911 – 60 years

This rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive sports car was first produced since September 1964, with the original air-cooled engine before switching to a liquid-cooled engine in 1998.

Porsche reached the production milestone of one million 911 units in 2017, where the model is now displayed at the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart.

Suzuki Gixxer 250, a simpler machine for fun riding – Test Ride

The selection of an affordable streetfighter machine that resonates with one’s soul is something that should not be taken lightly.

Otherwise, you might end up having to sell the bike because it does not match your personal taste.

Fortunately for B2 license holders in Malaysia, we are presented with various models of motorcycles under 250cc displacement, from Japan, Sweden, India, and there are even motorcycles made in China!

The Suzuki Gixxer 250 entered the Malaysian market at the end of last year, with a price tag that caught attention – around RM14,500.

Although its arrival might be somewhat late, the writer believes that the Suzuki Gixxer 250 is capable of posing a strong challenge to other 250cc models out there.

The following is a brief review after spending several days with the Suzuki Gixxer 250:

1. Streetfighter with average styling

Compared to other competitors in the market, the Gixxer 250 does not have an aggressive look.

The oval-shaped LED main headlight with three-layer lighting does look modern, but it is not complemented by LED turn signal lights, only traditional bulbs.

The same goes for the rear section.

However, the lighting aspect of this motorcycle is quite bright when ridden at night.

 

2. Natural riding position

One thing the writer appreciates about any naked bike is the rider’s more back-friendly riding position.

After all, reaching the age of 30, a sporty riding position is not a choice for cross-regional journeys.

Thus, with the Gixxer 250, it offers a more natural riding posture thanks to the upright handlebar position, along with a saddle height of 795mm that is comfortable for individuals of shorter stature and a relatively wide seat dimension.

As a result, it is more comfortable for long-distance rides.

The footpeg position is also satisfying, but its proximity to the side stand makes the left foot feel obstructed when trying to kick it out.

 

3. Fun horsepower to unleash

As standard, the Suzuki Gixxer 250 is equipped with a 249cc single-cylinder engine capable of producing 26.7 hp @ 9,300 rpm and a torque of 22.2 Nm @ 7,300 rpm.

Its sound might not be as aggressive as other competitors, but based on experience, the Gixxer 250 is capable of offering a fairly agile and powerful ride, especially when entering the mid-range of the engine revolution.

For urban use, it is not a problem at all, and the writer also enjoys riding this machine across the regions to breathe in the breeze of the Malacca Strait.

It’s a shame that it doesn’t come with a clutch assist & slipper feature, but there’s no need to worry as every gear change feels so smooth throughout the journey.

The Gixxer 250 also comes with gear shift indicators that will provide warnings to the rider.

 

4. Corner-friendly machine

There is no urge to test the highest speed of this machine, considering that the Gixxer 250 is actually more enjoyable to ride on roads away from the highways.

Even though it comes with standard conventional telescopic front fork and single shock absorber, this setup makes the Gixxer 250 suitable for the road conditions in Malaysia.

All vibrations and road irregularities are absorbed well, and it is still able to maintain stable movements when maneuvering through corners.

The standard tire size of 110/70 front and 150/60 rear also somewhat helps the Gixxer 250 to grip well on the asphalt, coupled with the dual-channel ABS braking system that enhances the bike’s stopping ability.

On paper, there may appear to be shortcomings in this machine, but not when you take it out of the garage to enjoy real routes.

 

5. Comfortable? Yes!

One thing that makes the writer satisfied with the Gixxer 250 is the effectiveness of its engine cooling system.

As standard, the Gixxer 250 comes with the Suzuki Oil Cooling System (SOCS) to ensure that both feet remain comfortable throughout the journey.

This is very different from another 250cc machine the writer has tested before, where the heat generated can make the feet feel burnt even on short journeys.

But not with the Gixxer 250, where the writer can go much further than usual without having to frequently stop just to cool down the feet.

 

6. Not many additional features

At a selling price of around RM14,500, the Suzuki Gixxer 250 indeed has some noticeable shortcomings.

Desired features such as inverted front fork, quick shifting capability, LED turn signals, color TFT display screen, and keyless start system are completely absent from this bike’s specifications list.

What you will get is a 250cc motorcycle friendly for B2 license holders that is quite simple but still suitable for enjoying commuting to work or relishing fresh air with friends on weekends heading to Lemang To’ Ki shop.

With a fuel tank capacity of 12 liters, it is sufficient to ensure you reach distances of up to 400 km before needing to stop at the next gas station.

In conclusion, the Suzuki Gixxer 250 can offer good riding and handling experience, while maintaining comfort aspects within a more affordable price range.

Should you consider buying another motorcycle? That is entirely up to personal opinion. However, this is one of the 250cc bikes that is very enjoyable to ride.

 

Specifications of the Suzuki Gixxer 250

Engine: 249 cc single-cylinder air/oil-cooled
Power: 26.7 hp @ 9,300 rpm
Torque: 22.2 Nm @ 7,300 rpm
Transmission: Six-speed gearbox
Fuel tank capacity: 12 liters
Saddle height: 795 mm

Bridgestone Malaysia brings racing simulation experience to university students

Bridgestone Tyre Malaysia has further intensified the e-sports arena in Malaysia by organizing “Bridgestone Rivals: Race to the Top” from June 26 to July 5, 2024.

The simulation racing championship was held at several higher education institutions, including Segi University Kota Damansara, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) Sungai Long, and Asia Pacific University (APU), TPM Bukit Jalil, where it successfully attracted over 2,000 visitors, with over 530 participants adding to the excitement.

Bridgestone is the first tire manufacturer to collaborate with Forza Motorsport, one of the leading simulation racing platforms, where participants were given the opportunity to race using a Lamborghini Huracan STO in the Hakone Grand Prix.

The final round of the championship took place at APU on July 5, 2024, featuring 45 students who successfully recorded the best lap times.

It also included a special session for media practitioners and an Open Group Championship for the top 20 public participants.

Michael Chung, Managing Director of Bridgestone Tyre Sales (Malaysia), said, “We are very excited to bring the thrill of racing simulation to university students and motor sports enthusiasts.

“This competition not only bridges the gap between the physical and digital realms, but also provides inspiration and connects the public through a shared interest in motor sports.

In the challenge, three students, Brandon Ho, Chuo Chung Zhi, and Bryan Wong emerged as the top three racers, each taking home cash prizes of RM1,000, RM800, and RM500 respectively, along with trophies and Bridgestone merchandise.

Cycle & Carriage becomes the official distributor of Peugeot vehicles in Malaysia

Cycle & Carriage, a renowned automotive brand with a 125-year legacy, has announced a partnership with Stellantis Malaysia to expand the Peugeot brand under its product portfolio.

Initially, two existing Cycle & Carriage showrooms located in Cheras and Batu Caves will be utilized to showcase Peugeot vehicles under one roof with sales and after-sales services set to commence towards the fourth quarter of this year (Q4 2024).

This collaboration with Cycle & Carriage is part of an effort to further develop the distributor network of Stellantis Malaysia.

The aim is not only to strengthen their presence in the country but also to identify key locations to offer quality and easily accessible services to customers within the community.

Additionally, there are plans to introduce more brands under Stellantis Malaysia, as well as to expand the network to the northern and southern regions of Peninsular Malaysia starting from 2025.

“We are excited to embark on a new chapter with Stellantis Malaysia, to offer customers an expanded product lineup, coupled with Cycle & Carriage’s expertise in automotive backed by our 125-year history. This aligns with our strategy to deliver exceptional journeys to a broader customer base, expand our market reach, and drive shareholder value.

“We truly believe that existing and future customers will greatly benefit from this partnership, offering easy access to a wider range of quality products based on their needs and quality services even after point of purchase,” said Thomas Tok, CEO of Cycle & Carriage.

Jamie Morais, Managing Director of Stellantis Malaysia expressed his gratitude and said “Today marks a significant milestone for Stellantis Malaysia, and we are thrilled to welcome our new dealer partner to our growing network. This is a testament to our commitment to delivering exceptional service and expanding our reach to better serve our valued customers.

“Cycle & Carriage’s reputation for excellence aligns perfectly with our values and we look forward to setting the new standards in the industry to provide unparalleled customer experience.”

Porsche Malaysia attracts interest of young enthusiasts in simulation racing

Porsche Malaysia, through Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP), recently organized the Porsche Esports Sprint Challenge Malaysia 2024 competition in conjunction with the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia (PCCA) event to be held at the Sepang International Circuit next month.

The competition is open to all Malaysian citizens and aims to identify the top 10 simulation racers through the fastest lap time format.

There are three age categories being contested: 10-14 years, 15-17 years, and 18 years and above, where each participant is given the opportunity to pilot the 911 GT3 Cup race car generation 992 using the Assetto Corsa platform.

The first qualifying round took place earlier, where only the top 30 fastest racers were selected based on a five-lap time-trial format at the Buriram Circuit.

The second qualifying round recently took place at the Porsche Centre Ara Damansara on 27-28 July, where each participant received special racing guidance followed by a 20-minute practice session at the Suzuka Circuit.

The 10 finalists with the fastest lap times will advance to the final stage at the Sepang International Circuit on 9-11 August, concurrently with the PCCA 2024 race on the same dates.

There, all participants will have the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the Sepang Circuit during a 30-minute free practice session, before attempting to secure pole position in a 15-minute qualifying session and the chance to earn an additional 10 race points for the overall standings.

We at Engear.tv also had the opportunity to participate in the second qualifying session recently held at the Porsche Centre Ara Damansara.

Before being allowed to ‘drive’, we were taken through a simulation racing guidance class by young racer Mika Hakimi, covering driving techniques to be applied on the Suzuka Circuit.

Additionally, participants were taught how to approach each corner within the circuit, starting from T1 all the way to the last corner, T18.

We were also given the chance to experience racing on simulation racing rig provided at the Porsche Centre Ara Damansara.

Although not achieving a faster lap time, the valuable experience gained throughout the day spent there will be unforgettable.

It was also satisfying to be able to try out the simulation racing rig setup, which is much more expensive than what the writer has at home. It is hoped that more events like this can be organized in the future to further enhance the esports scene in Malaysia.

Seat manufacturer Recaro Automotive files for bankruptcy

The seat manufacturer, Recaro Automotive, reportedly filed for bankruptcy on the past July 29.

According to the local media, Heise Online, almost 1,000 employees of the company were unaware of this latest development.

The news also shocked around 215 workers affiliated with the IG Metall union working at the Kircheim unter Teck factory, near Stuttgart, Germany.

IG Metall boss Alessandro Lieb informed the Süddeutsche Zeitung news outlet, “We were not informed about this step, and only became aware of this via the intranet.”

Recaro Automotive has been a seat supplier to various automotive companies like Aston Martin, Ford, Mitsubishi, Porsche, Volkswagen, and many more for several decades.

Not many may know, but Recaro actually started as an automotive coachbuilder named Reuterr Carosserie in 1906, supplying car body constructions to companies such as Porsche and Volkswagen.

The bankruptcy filing in the Esslingen District Court will allow Recaro’s operations to continue under the supervision of an administrator.

Currently, the bankruptcy filing only applies to Recaro Automotive, while other companies responsible for producing child car seats, aircraft seats, gaming chairs, and stadium seats are unaffected.

What to do if your car tire punctures?

Driving on the beloved roads of Malaysia is a form of high-risk gambling.

You may reach your destination safely but if unfortunate, you might get stranded in the middle of the road/highway due to a punctured or burst tire.

This problem can occur due to several factors such as sharp foreign objects puncturing the tire, the sidewall possibly tearing due to impact from potholes, or possibly a leakage issue within the valve structure itself.

If this problem occurs, you might experience heavy steering response, difficulty in starting, and increasingly loud tire noises.

Your car may also tend to veer to the left or right, or lose control even when driving on a straight road.

If an unexpected incident occurs (such as a tire burst), do not panic and try to follow the five steps you should take:

 

1. Control the braking force

Sudden braking may cause your vehicle to lose control and endanger not only your own life but also the lives of other road users.

So, the first thing you should do is gently press and pump the brake pedal until the vehicle is at a controllable speed.

For non-ABS car owners, this is the time to realize ABS by yourself – Aku Brek Sendiri!

 

2. Control the steering direction gently

In emergency situations, you may feel the car pulling to the left or right, depending on which tire has burst.

Just like the brakes, the steering wheel also needs to be controlled gently against the car’s tendency, and most importantly, ensure the car is in the appropriate lane.

Aggressively turning the steering wheel will cause your car to spin and lose control.

 

3. Use a lower gear

One way to slow down the car is to use the engine braking technique.

Manual transmission car owners are likely familiar with this technique – just switch to a lower gear position.

 

4. Turn on the hazard lights

Ensure the hazard lights are turned on while controlling and stopping the car to warn other road users.

Modern cars now have automatic hazard light activation in distressing situations.

If you belong to the old-school car owners, do not worry and panic because your car’s hazard lights can also be activated manually. You just need to know where the emergency light button is in your car.

What you need to worry about is drivers who intentionally turn on hazard lights while driving in the rain.

 

5. Warning triangle board – where to place it?

When stopping in the emergency lane, make sure to place the warning triangle 45 meters behind your car.

Most new cars are now equipped with this emergency kit, so it is not an excuse to overlook this very safety aspects while waiting for assistance.

10 Most Powerful Production Cars in the World (Part 2)

In the previous article, we have already listed 10 production cars with the highest horsepower in the world.

Here is another list of 10 new production cars with the highest horsepower in the world.

 

1. Lucid Air Sapphire

The Lucid Air Sapphire is a four-door sedan designed to compete with the Tesla Model S and Porsche Taycan.

The Air Sapphire variant combines three electric motors with a total output of 1,234 hp and 1,939 Nm, allowing it to accelerate from 0-96 km/h in just 1.9 seconds.

With a full charge, the Air Sapphire can travel up to 687 km.

 

2. Aston Martin Valkyrie

This limited production hybrid sports car is the result of a collaboration between Aston Martin and Red Bull.

Powered by a naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12 engine built by Cosworth paired with a hybrid system, the Valkyrie can produce 1,160 hp and 900 Nm of torque.

0-100 km/h? Just 2.6 seconds!

 

3. Chevrolet Corvette ZR1

Chevrolet has just unveiled the latest Corvette ZR1 model equipped with a twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter flat-plane V8 engine.

The most powerful V8 engine ever produced in America is capable of generating up to 1,064 hp and 1,121 Nm of torque powering the rear wheels only!

 

4. Mercedes-AMG One

The Mercedes-AMG One can be described as an F1 car that can be driven legally on the road, with production limited to only 275 units.

It features a 1.6-liter V6 F1 engine with four electric motors, producing a total power output of 1,049 hp.

Unfortunately, the engine can only last up to 50,000 km before it needs to be rebuilt.

Among the owners of the AMG One are Lewis Hamilton, Nico Rosberg, David Coulthard, and Valtteri Bottas.

 

5. Rivian R1T

The electric light-duty pickup truck Rivian R1T  is available in three powertrain configurations, with the most powerful setup featuring four electric motors capable of producing up to 1,025 hp and 1,624 Nm, significantly more powerful than the previous 835 hp and 1,231 Nm figures.

Unlike the ladder frame chassis used by most pickup trucks, the Rivian R1T uses a skateboard-like platform combining the battery, cooling system, suspension, and brakes in a single structure.

 

6. Tesla Model S Plaid

Although the Model S is one of the oldest cars on this list, the Plaid variant was introduced in 2021, nine years after the launch of the Model S.

With three electric motors, the Tesla Model S Plaid can unleash up to 1,020 hp and 1,420 Nm of torque, with 0-96 km/h acceleration in 2.07 seconds followed by a top speed of 320 km/h.

 

7. Lamborghini Revuelto

The Lamborghini Revuelto is the first Lamborghini supercar to use a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system compared to models like the Sian FKP 37 and Countach LPI 800-4 equipped with mild hybrid systems.

The 6.5-liter NA V12 engine (814 hp/725 Nm) is paired with three electric motors (187 hp/336 Nm) for a total power output of 1,001 hp and 1,062 Nm of torque.

Acceleration from 0-100 km/h is as fast as 2.5 seconds, with a top speed exceeding 350 km/h.

 

8. GMC Hummer EV Edition 1

The GMC Hummer EV is an electric battery-powered vehicle that can weigh up to 4,500 kg.

The Edition 1 variant comes with three 1,000 hp electric motors, a range of 529 km, the Extreme Off-Road package, and the Crab Walk feature.

In addition to the pickup truck version, the GMC Hummer EV is also available as a five-door SUV.

 

9. Ferrari SF90

The Ferrari SF90 is equipped with a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine, three electric motors, and a 7.9 kWh battery pack that allows for emission-free travel up to 26 km.

The total power output can reach 986 hp and a maximum torque of 800 Nm.

Interestingly, the SF90 does not have a reverse gear, as this operation is taken over by two electric motors located on the front axle.

10. Tesla Cybertruck Cyberbeast

The most controversial electric pickup truck model for 2024 also has the most powerful variant – Cyberbeast.

This three-electric motor variant is capable of producing 845 hp and 1,396 Nm of torque, with an acceleration of 0-96 km/h in just 2.6 seconds.

With the long-range option, the Cyberbeast can travel up to 710 km.

The main issue plaguing Cybertruck owners is the unsatisfactory build quality and the tendency of the stainless steel exterior to rust.

Mitsubishi to Join Honda-Nissan Alliance – report

Mitsubishi Motors is reported to be joining the automotive alliance of Honda-Nissan in an effort to enhance competitiveness and sustain itself in the highly competitive market.

This latest development is perceived as dividing the Japanese automotive industry into two major groups, namely the Toyota Motor Group and the Honda-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance.

According to Nikkei’s report, Mitsubishi Motors has signed a nondisclosure agreement (NDA) with the second and third-largest producers in Japan.

For the fiscal year ending in March 2024, Honda recorded sales of 4.1 million units globally, followed by Nissan with 3.44 million units. With Mitsubishi’s sales at around 810,000 units, the alliance would amount to a total sales figure of 8.35 million units.

By comparison, Toyota as the largest automotive producer, has formed an alliance with producers such as Daihatsu, Suzuki, Subaru, Mazda, and Hino Motors, resulting in a total sales figure reaching 16 million units.

Specific details regarding the agreement between Mitsubishi and Honda-Nissan will be finalized later.

However according to the report, the three brands are aiming to standardize vehicle software, in addition to enhancing their respective vehicle lineups, particularly in relation to powertrain electrification and the mini vehicle segment.

2024 Royal Enfield Himalayan officially launched, starting from RM30,600

The Didi Group, as the sole importer and distributor of the Royal Enfield motorcycle brand in Malaysia, has recently launched the Himalayan model at the Art Of Speed 2024 event.

It is powered by a liquid-cooled Sherpa 452cc engine capable of producing 40 PS @ 8,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 40 Nm @ 5,500 rpm.

With a generous ground clearance (230 mm), the Royal Enfield Himalayan also features long-travel suspension, including a 43mm inverted front fork by Showa and a rear mono-shock absorber, to easily handle various terrains.

The Royal Enfield Himalayan maintains a combination of 21-inch front and 17-inch rear aluminum alloy rims, with a wider 140/80 rear tire for greater grip.

The 17-liter fuel tank has been redesigned to provide comfort to the rider, along with adjustable saddle height starting from 805 mm and can be raised to 845 mm depending on the rider’s height.

All essential information can be accessed via the round TripperDash display screen, which also offers mapping navigation using the Google Maps Platform and audio guidance in over 130 languages.

Riders can choose to set their riding mode to Performance or Eco through the ride-by-wire throttle control, and can deactivate the rear wheel ABS for a more enjoyable off-road riding experience.

Royal Enfield Malaysia also offers over 30 genuine accessories for the Himalayan, including aluminum storage boxes, taller windshields, LED fog lights, mudguards, rally seats, soft bags, and much more.

Three variants are offered, namely Base (Kaza Brown), Pass (Slate Himalayan Salt or Slate Poppy Blue), and Summit (Hanle Black or Kamet White), with prices ranging from RM30,600 to RM32,200.

 

10 Most Powerful Production Cars in the World (Part 1)

Once upon a time, real production cars with over 1,000 hp were quite difficult to find.

However, with current technological advancements, it has now become commonplace for every manufacturer to compete in producing cars capable of unleashing up to two thousand horsepower, whether internal combustion engine or electric-powered.

As long as more advanced technologies exist, the race for the highest horsepower will not cease.

Below is a list of the most powerful new production cars that exist on this planet:

 

1. Koenigsegg Gemera

The Koenigsegg Gemera is a four-seater grand tourer equipped with a 5.0-liter hybrid V8 engine capable of generating up to 2,300 hp and 2,750 Nm of torque.

Looking for a less powerful version? You can opt for the inline-three-cylinder 2.0-liter hybrid variant, with a total output of 1,400 hp and 1,800 Nm of torque.

Even this might not be produced by Koenigsegg in the near future, as the majority of Gemera owners prefer the V8 engine.

 

2. Lotus Evija

Lotus, well-known for its lightweight cars, has ventured into producing electric sports/supercars.

Introduced in 2019, the Evija features four electric motors, each producing 503 PS of power, with a total power output of 2,011 hp and 1,704 Nm of torque.

This limited-production sports car can travel a distance of up to 346 km, thanks to its 93 kWh battery pack.

 

3. Aspark Owl

Despite its name not sounding Japanese, the Aspark Owl is actually an electric sports car developed by the engineering firm Aspark from the Land of the Rising Sun.

With four electric motors (one for each wheel), the Aspark Owl can deliver 1,984 hp and 2,000 Nm of torque.

Its 69 kWh battery pack allows it to travel up to 451 km on a single full charge.

 

4. Pininfarina Battista

Another powerful electric supercar on the list produced by Automobili Pininfarina GmbH.

It is also powered by four electric motors with a combined output reaching 1,900 hp and 2,300 Nm of torque.

A full battery charge enables this car to travel up to 450 km.

 

5. Rimac Nevera

This Rimac-built supercar shares the same factory used to assemble the Pininfarina Battista.

The Rimac Nevera is equipped with four electric motors driving each wheel, producing 1,888 hp and 2,360 Nm of torque, achieving a top speed of 412 km/h – one of the fastest EVs in the world.

 

6. Hennessey Venom F5

Hennessey Special Vehicles began producing the Venom F5 sports car in 2020, offering various options to its customers.

Regardless of the sold-out versions or the Roadster version currently being produced, each unit comes with a twin-turbocharged 6.6-liter V8 engine, generating up to 1,817 hp and 1,617 Nm of torque.

Maximum speed? Over 500 km/h!

 

7. Bugatti Tourbillon

The Bugatti Tourbillon is a hybrid sports car set to be produced starting from 2026.

Limited to only 250 units, the Bugatti Tourbillon features a V16 engine with a displacement of 8,355 cc paired with three electric motors.

The engine alone can produce 986 hp/900 Nm, but with the help of the electric motors, the Tourbillon can reach a power output of 1,775 hp and 3,000 Nm.

0-100 km/h in just 2.0 seconds, followed by 0-200 km/h in under five seconds, while 0-400 km/h is accomplished in less than 25 seconds before reaching a top speed of 380 km/h.

 

8. Koenigsegg CC850

Built as a tribute to the CC8S model, the Koenigsegg CC850 is a limited-production car celebrating the 50th birthday of its founder, Christian von Koenigsegg.

Borrowing the twin-turbocharged 5.0-liter V8 engine from the Jesko model, the CC850 outputs 1,385 hp and 1,385 Nm, or 1,185 hp when using regular fuel.

 

9. SSC Tuatara

The SSC Tuatara was originally powered by a twin-turbocharged 6.9-liter V8 engine, but the engine capacity has been reduced to 5.9 liters to allow it to reach a higher redline (8,800 rpm).

According to SSC, the Tuatara is capable of producing up to 1,350 hp and 1,735 Nm of torque, or up to 1,750 hp when using E85 fuel.

 

10. Czinger 21C VMax

The car in this final list is produced by the American automotive manufacturer, Czinger Vehicles.

The 21C is essentially a hybrid sports car with a 2.88-liter V8 engine paired with three electric motors, delivering 1,250 hp and 1,830 Nm of torque.

Acceleration from 0-96 km/h takes just 1.9 seconds before reaching a maximum speed of 407 km/h!

2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 CKD: Good & Bad Things We Learnt – Test Drive

While the writer has yet to experience driving the GLS or G-wagen models, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 remains the largest SUV the writer has ever driven in his lifetime.

This luxurious SUV with a three-row seating configuration has been updated for the 2024 model year a few months ago.

It features several cosmetic changes on the exterior, followed by updates in the cabin space and an upgrade in power for the existing powertrain unit.

At first glance on the road, it might be difficult to distinguish it from the previous version. However, after test driving it for several days, there are a few things that make the writer find the GLE 450 CKD difficult to consider for purchase.

 

Simple, but too minimalistic lighting unit

Believe it or not, lighting actually plays a crucial role in ensuring the SUV’s appearance is more elegant on the road.

While the previous GLE model came with boomerang-shaped DRL graphics, this GLE 450 now comes with a more compact design. The same goes for the rear lights, where the LED graphics have become thinner.

It still looks sleek and elegant on the road, but its image might fade when parked next to the older GLE 450.

 

Same exterior appearance

If you were expecting the GLE 450 to bring more dramatic changes, forget about that expectation, as the 2024 GLE 450 still maintains an almost similar external appearance.

Yes, you can see the front bumper now looks more aggressive, and the front grille structure is more refined, but those are the only changes present.

The design of the 21-inch AMG rims is still unchanged from the previous model, and even the layout of the front fascia remains unaltered.

 

Steering wheel now dust and fingerprint friendly

Among the things the writer is less fond of regarding the GLE 450, other than the two points mentioned above, is the design of the steering wheel.

The GLE 450’s steering wheel now looks sportier and more sophisticated with touch-based operation, but it’s not the main point being emphasized.

The writer merely hopes that Mercedes-Benz would bring back a more premium finish on the steering wheel of any model to replace the use of black plastic. This is because the writer notices that the black plastic tends to trap dust and fingerprints, requiring the owner/driver to frequently wipe that area with a cloth.

 

Powerful engine, but jerky transmission

The Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 still retains its inline-six 3.0-liter turbo engine, but with an increase in power to 375 hp @ 5,800 rpm and torque of 500 Nm @ 1,800-5,000 rpm.

It also has a 48-volt mild hybrid system, featuring the second-generation ISG system capable of providing an additional 20 hp and 200 Nm of power.

On paper, it looks impressive, but there are times when the 9GTronic automatic transmission slightly disappoints when the traffic light turns green. Starting from first gear, it doesn’t pose a problem, but the drive feels not very smooth and slightly jerky when the gearbox is set to shift to the next gear (from first gear to second gear).

 

More expensive, despite being a CKD model

What’s certain is that the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 CKD doesn’t come with a lower price. This SUV model assembled in Pekan, Pahang, is sold starting from RM528,888 on the road without insurance, which is RM13,000 more expensive than the previous model.

If you can compromise on the above five points, the following five aspects might make you consider this SUV for your family.

 

Comfortable for the whole family

The GLE 450 brings advantages that are hard to match – comfort aspects for the whole family, especially when sitting in the second row.

This is because the GLE 450 offers almost the same comfort functions as the front passengers, such as separate air conditioning vents for the left, center, and right, separate climate control, adjustable seats, as well as ample head and legroom!

The sufficiently large panoramic roof allows rear passengers to enjoy beautiful surroundings when returning home. Additionally, USB-C charging slots are provided for charging smart devices throughout the journey.

 

Heavy but agile

It should be noted that the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 has always been an SUV weighing over two tonnes.

Certainly heavy, but with efficient engine and all-wheel drive systems, you may often forget that it is a heavy SUV. With its 381 hp engine and 500 Nm of torque, it only takes 5.6 seconds for a 0-100 km/h sprint, making it a fairly agile SUV, especially when pushed through winding roads.

The standard provision of Continental SportContact6 tires from the factory also helps ensure that this SUV grips well on various road surfaces.

Based on data, the author managed to achieve a fuel consumption rate as low as 9.0 liters/100 km.

 

Adjustable height suspension

As standard, the Mercedes GLE 450 is equipped with the Airmatic air suspension system assisted by the adaptive ADS+ damper system.

Depending on the selected driving mode, this system will raise or lower the ground clearance, besides facilitating loading cargo into the 630-liter cargo space.

Overall, the writer prefers to maintain the Comfort mode more suitable for Malaysia’s imperfect road conditions; it provides comfort and absorbs all road irregularities without any negative effects on the driver and passengers.

However, you can also customize the driving mode by adjusting the engine response, ESP, and suspension to be more sporty.

 

Off-road driving mode

One thing that makes the GLE 450 unique is the presence of the new Off-road driving mode.

In addition to the higher suspension setting and emphasis on an optimal grip, it also warns users not to use this mode on public roads, with the speed limited to only 110 km/h. This Off-road mode also provides an under-vehicle display so the driver can check for any obstacles in front of the vehicle, shielded beneath its bulky body.

 

From the driver’s perspective

Overall, the 2024 GLE 450 doesn’t bring significant changes. It offers comfortable seating that provides good support for the driver throughout the journey, with adequate steering response – not too heavy and not too light.

The NVH aspect is also quite good for a Mercedes-Benz, effectively deflecting and filtering out external noise. Engine noise is only evident when harshly revved, but not to the extent of being disruptive, and the same goes for wind noise.

Compared to other Mercedes SUV models using similar dual iPad-like setups, the writer particularly likes the conventional-looking dashboard design used in the GLE 450. It retains physical function buttons necessary on the dashboard and center console, assisted by the presence of a touchpad to facilitate menu searching on the screen without needing to touch it more often.

To avoid confusion, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia only offers a single variant for the GLE-Class, so one needs to carefully consider before deciding to invest over half a million in getting a comfortable family SUV.

 

2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 4MATIC CKD

Engine: Inline-six 3.0-liter turbo
Power: 381 hp, 500 Nm
Hybrid system: 48V mild, 20 hp/200 Nm
Transmission: 9GTronic Automatic
Drive System: All-wheel Drive 4MATIC
Acceleration: 0-100 km/h in 5.6 seconds
Top speed: 250 km/h
Price: RM528,888

2024 Lexus RZ 450e Luxury – First Drive Impression

Lexus Malaysia has officially launched its first electric SUV, the Lexus RZ 450e 2024, in the local market.

Offered in limited units, the Lexus RZ450e comes with a single Luxury specification, featuring dual electric motor setup as standard.

The front motor is capable of producing 204 hp/266 Nm of power, while the rear motor delivers 109 hp/169 Nm. Overall, the Lexus RZ 450e can generate up to 308 hp of power, driving the all-wheel-drive DIRECT4 system.

The 71.4 kWh battery pack allows for a driving range of up to 440 km on a full charge, supporting 11 kW AC charging with a full charging time of 6.5 hours, or fast DC charging up to 150 kW (shortened to 30 minutes).

Notable features in the Lexus RZ 450e include MacPherson/Double Wishbone suspension system, Electronic Power Steering (EPS), 20-inch aluminum wheels, Bi-AHS LED projector headlights with adaptive high-beam function, L-Bar design taillights, exterior and interior e-Latch door handles, and Lexus Spindle grille at the front.

The cabin is equipped with a 7-inch TFT instrument cluster screen, a 14-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, Ultrasuede-wrapped seats with eight-way driver and passenger adjustments, synthetic leather-wrapped steering wheel, three-zone air conditioning, and shift-by-wire gear selector buttons.

During your journey, you will be accompanied by music from the Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound system with 13 available speakers.

In addition to passive safety features such as 7 airbags, ABS, Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control System (TCS), and more, the Lexus RZ 450e is also equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ which includes features like:

• Pre-Collision System (PCS)
• Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) with Stop & Go and Curve Speed Reduction functions
• Lane Keeping System (LKS) with Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) and Lane Departure Alert (LDA) functions
• Adaptive High-Beam System (AHS)

There are also two Lexus-specific features, Lexus Parking Assist Monitor and Lexus Teammate Advanced Park with Surround Panoramic View Monitoring (PVM) function.

The starting price of the 2024 Lexus RZ 450e is RM429,888.

 

First Drive Impression

During a test drive session offered for the Lexus LBX 2024 the other day, we were also given the opportunity to experience driving this electric SUV ourselves.

Our first impression is that the Lexus RZ 450e can be considered as an alternative if you are not interested in getting a German-made electric SUV in the same price range.

The acceleration performance offered by the Lexus RZ 450e is also what you would expect from an SUV with a dual electric motor configuration.

It may not be as aggressive as electric cars tuned for performance, but it is sufficient for you to outpace any fossil fuel-powered car at traffic lights.

Based on highway driving, you can feel that the NVH level of the Lexus RZ 450e is comfortable.

However, the 308 hp power output is not balanced with suspension tuning suitable for winding roads, and you can feel the body roll of this 2-ton SUV as the front end leans out of corners.

The writer understands that the Lexus RZ 450e is not a high-performance F-Sport SUV, so these weaknesses can be forgiven, as similar feelings were also experienced when the writer test drove a German-made electric SUV before this.

Not much can be shared at this time due to the very short test drive period. More information will be reviewed if there is an opportunity to test drive the Lexus RZ 450e in the future.

 

Final round GR GT Cup season 7 at Sunway University this weekend

UMW Toyota Motor invites Malaysians interested in Gran Turismo 7 simulation racing to witness the final round of the 2024 Toyota Gazoo Racing GT Cup season 7 at Sunway University Campus from 27th to 28th July.

The two-day event is open to the public, where the semi-final round will be held on 27th July to select the fastest simulation racers who will compete on 28th July for a total prize of RM120,500.

The semi-final stage will see 20 racers driving the Toyota GR Corolla MORIZO Edition at Alsace circuit in France, as well as the Toyota GR Supra RZ at the Deep Forest Raceway circuit in Switzerland.

The top 10 fastest participants will advance to the final stage to race the GR010 prototype car at Monza circuit in Italy and the GR Supra Racing Concept car at Circuit De La Sarthe Le Mans circuit in France.

Notable contenders this year include Taj Izrin Aiman Taj Madira vying for his fourth championship title, competing against last year’s runner-up Danesh Wigneswaran and Chong Kai Chang, as well as 2022 champion Muhammad Iqbal.

The GR GT Cup final will also feature a special race involving TGR Rookies, media practitioners, and the top 10 fastest racers from the GR Tour, comprising students from Sunway University, USM Nibong Tebal, MMU, UKM, and UiTM Pasir Gudang.

The public is also invited to test their racing skills and stand a chance to win special prizes.

There will also be a showcase of Tomica diecast vehicle models and exclusive Gazoo Racing merchandise for purchase, as well as displays of the latest Toyota vehicles.

UMW Toyota President, Datuk Ravindran K, stated, “Simulation racing is evolving globally and is now recognized as a crucial step for individuals aspiring to transition to real racing.

“It is also a vital prerequisite in the selection and training of candidates wishing to join the Gazoo Racing Young Driver Development Program to compete as a Rookie in the GR Vios Challenge,” he added.

Xiaomi SU7 Ultra Prototype ready to challenge the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT

The smart device manufacturer Xiaomi is not satisfied with its existing SU7 car product.

In order to provide a more intense competition to high-performance EVs in the market, the manufacturer is now unveiling the full carbon prototype model Xiaomi SU7 Ultra.

At the same time, Xiaomi also announced the debut of an electric power unit called the HyperEngine V8s.

 

 

It is not a typical V8 engine, instead, the HyperEngine V8s is an electric motor capable of producing a maximum power of 578 PS and a torque of 635 Nm, with a speed reaching 27,200 rpm!

In the SU7 Ultra model, Xiaomi combines two electric motors, the HyperEngine V8s, and a V6s electric motor, with a total output reaching 1,548 PS that powers all wheels!

With Pirelli P Zero tires, the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 1.97 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 5.97 seconds, and reach 300 km/h in just 15 seconds.

The maximum speed is about 350 km/h.

 

 

The Qilin 2.0 battery pack, sourced from CATL, is specifically designed for racing, capable of discharging a peak power of up to 1,808 PS.

Although the battery pack has a SoC of about 20 percent, it is still capable of discharging power as high as 1,088 PS!

Unlike the standard SU7, the SU7 Ultra features a full carbon fiber body construction, complete with a body kit (front splitter and diffuser, rear wing, massive diffuser) said to generate a downforce of 2,145 kg at a speed of 350 km/h.

Yet, the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra is still a high-performance sedan with a weight close to 2 tons, or more precisely 1,900 kg.

 

 

The brake system consists of six-piston AP Racing calipers on the front and rear axles, as well as racing brake pads capable of withstanding temperatures above 800 degrees Celsius.

Under full braking conditions, the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra is capable of generating over 2.36G of deceleration, with a stopping distance of just 25 meters from 100-0 km/h.

Xiaomi plans to set a new record in the four-door electric sedan category at the Nurburgring Circuit in October.

Currently, the fastest record is held by the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT with a time of 7:07.55 minutes.

 

2024 Lexus LBX First Drive: 5 Things You Should Know About The Smallest Lexus

This may very well be the smallest and most affordable Lexus ever offered in the market for a new Lexus car.

Despite featuring characteristics typically associated with everyday cars, the 2024 Lexus LBX still offers its own identity to become part of the renowned Japanese luxury vehicle family.

Recently, we were given the opportunity to experience firsthand the first drive of the LBX crossing the Selangor-Pahang state border.

Although the distance given was quite short, the designated route included the necessary ingredients for us to evaluate the driving experience of the Lexus LBX on real roads, rather than just circling around exhibition centers.

Here are our five discoveries:

 

1. Toyota Platform, but with Identical Lexus Exterior Design

This is the first Lexus model to use the TNGA-B platform, making the Lexus LBX a ‘non-identical twin’ to the European market Toyota Yaris Cross crossover model.

While the dimensions of the LBX are not much different from the Yaris Cross, the LBX looks more imposing on the road with more prominent shoulder structures, followed by the aerodynamic spindle grille.

Moreover, the LBX’s appearance is more elegant and compact; the wheel arch protectors are more rounded compared to the angular design of the Yaris Cross.

For the rear design, the LBX features a sleeker tail lamp structure connected by a horizontal LED bar. The L Lexus logo has been replaced with the word L E X U S.

The shape of the LBX’s side mirrors actually reminds the writer of another more expensive Lexus model that shares the three-letter naming format, the Lexus LFA.

 

2. Three-Cylinder Inline Hybrid Engine

As standard, the Lexus LBX is equipped with a three-cylinder inline engine (code M15A-FXS) paired with a hybrid system.

The engine alone produces 90 hp and 120 Nm of torque, while the electric motor contributes 93 hp and 185 Nm, with a total output of around 136 hp.

Many may be skeptical about a three-cylinder engine, but the Proton X50 enthusiasts likely have long discarded that feeling. If you don’t believe it, check which model dominates the right lane of the highway apart from the low-power Perodua models.

Despite having only a three-cylinder inline engine, for us who experienced driving the LBX the other day, we can say the response provided is very satisfying.

You can enjoy a fun acceleration moment when the car moves away from a toll booth or when the traffic light turns green at intersections.

The power delivery is always there when needed at low speeds, aided by the efficiency of the eight-speed eCVT transmission that ensures the front wheels follow the driver’s direction.

Similar to any Toyota (and Lexus) hybrid model, the Lexus LBX also has an EV mode to allow the crossover to move without using any fuel at low speeds.

 

3. Simple Suspension Setup, but Suitable for Malaysian Roads

As standard, the Lexus LBX is fitted with MacPherson struts in the front and a torsion beam in the rear.

It is somehow similar to B-segment crossover models in the market.

Nevertheless, the tuning of the LBX suspension system makes it enjoyable to push through winding routes, like the ‘high-speed favorite circuit of many,’ the KL-Karak Expressway.

Throughout the drive, this small SUV feels stable and grips every corner, with body lean occurring when pushed aggressively.

For regular driving, the body roll produced is quite minimal, making it suitable and comfortable for those who do not fancy spirited driving.

Most importantly, the steering response itself is very obedient to every driver input, and it is what the writer expects from a Lexus after testing larger and more expensive models before – the Lexus ES, Lexus RX, and Lexus NX.

To delve further, we need to borrow this LBX again for a more comprehensive review. In short, the LBX is one Lexus that is enjoyable to drive!

With a chassis, engine, transmission, and suspension system that work in harmony, the writer is looking forward to testing the MORIZO RR variant, which comes with a more special recipe – the three-cylinder inline pulse of the GR Yaris and manual transmission!

Hopefully, Lexus Malaysia will consider this variant in the future.

 

4. Tazuna Concept for the Driver

Similar to any Lexus model in the market, the Lexus LBX prioritizes the Tazuna concept in the driver’s cockpit design.

In this section, Lexus has minimized the presence of function buttons and only focused on essential operation buttons, aiming to maximize the driver’s focus on the road.

The 12.3-inch digital cluster screen offers easily readable information, similarly to the 9.8-inch central screen that also supports connections to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

When the writer holds the steering wheel, it offers an indescribable feeling, as if it’s designed for those who appreciate and enjoy driving a Lexus.

The front seats are also quite comfortable and can hold the driver firmly throughout the drive, aided by the power-adjustable function.

Unfortunately, the front passenger seat only has manual adjustments. This isn’t a big issue, as it is still comfortable when sitting next to the driver.

The NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) aspect of this crossover is also very good, with minimal vibrations, reduced wind noise, and tire roar that seeps into the cabin.

Let’s not pretend that the engine noise isn’t audible; it still exists, but a more aggressive growl only occurs when the accelerator pedal is pressed firmly to the floor. Even then, it’s not as loud as one might imagine.

 

5. Lexus LBX, suitable for whom?

One thing that makes the LBX less suitable for family use is the fairly cramped rear seats.

This situation may be influenced by the somewhat bulky structure of the front seats, resulting in limited legroom for rear passengers.

It might be suitable for small children, or adults with the physique of teenagers.

The cargo area provides a space of 315 liters, large enough to accommodate daily necessities.


So, if the LBX isn’t suitable for family use, who is it more suitable for?

For us, it might be considered as a second car used specifically for urban purposes by those who do not prioritize space, or given to children and young wives who are just starting to learn driving.

Its small size, along with its ease of driving, makes the Lexus LBX a luxurious car worth considering.

At the end of the day, not everyone wants a large luxury car, right?

For the Malaysian market, the Lexus LBX is sold starting from RM238,888 and is available in two variants, Premium and Luxury.