Peugeot Malaysia has announced the opening of its first 3S centre (sales, service & spare parts) in the state of Sarawak, located in Kuching.
Operated by Heng Lian Enterprise Berhad, this 4,200-square-foot 3S centre features a showroom that can accommodate four vehicles, a delivery area, and offers maintenance, repair services, and warranty support.
The establishment of this 3S centre is seen as a means to meet the needs of the Peugeot driving community while further strengthening the brand’s commitment to customer satisfaction.
According to Daniel Gonzales, Chief Operating Officer for ASEAN & General Distributor of Stellantis, “Our strategy to strengthen the presence and growth of PEUGEOT in Malaysia involves expanding our dealer network, with East Malaysia playing a crucial role in this expansion effort.
“We are pleased to collaborate with Heng Lian and welcome their addition to our distribution network as the first 3S Centre. We will also continue to expand our presence in the East Malaysian market.
“To maintain the highest standards of expertise, the after-sales maintenance team at PEUGEOT Kuching has undergone comprehensive training, both online and in-person, in collaboration with Stellantis Malaysia. This commitment also includes all future staff to ensure that all PEUGEOT vehicle owners receive the best service and support.”
The principal dealer of PEUGEOT Kuching, Sylvia Ng, stated, “PEUGEOT Kuching is not just a showroom; it represents our commitment to providing an exceptional ownership experience for our customers.
“Our investment in after-sales services, from maintenance to warranty support, ensures that both new and existing Peugeot customers will receive the best care. With a trained team and a strategic location, we are ready to set a new standard in customer service and automotive excellence.”
Peugeot customers can contact Stellantis customer service at 1800-18-STLA, or alternatively, reach out directly to the Peugeot Kuching dealer at 016-2171464.
The Porsche Macan has entered its second generation with the launch of this compact SUV in early 2024.
Like it or not, if you are interested in acquiring an entry-level SUV from Porsche, you will only be presented with the entirely electric Macan lineup.
This move is quite bold for Porsche, considering that the Macan was previously the best-selling model from the brand, surpassing its larger sibling, the Cayenne, globally.
The Porsche Macan EV—does it offer another EV experience just like any other electric vehicle on the road? Or does it still retain the distinctive Porsche identity?
Recently, we were invited by Porsche Malaysia to experience the driving dynamics of the Macan EV, specifically the Macan 4 variant, which carries a price tag of RM445,000.
Specifications
The Porsche Macan 4 is powered by two electric motors, producing 387 PS and a torque of 650 Nm, allowing for a 0-100 km/h acceleration in just 5.2 seconds.
The top speed is limited to 220 km/h, which is quite fast for an EV.
With a 100 kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery pack, the Macan 4 can travel up to 613 km on a full charge.
The Macan EV also supports AC charging at 11 kW and DC charging up to 270 kW, enabling owners to charge the SUV’s battery in just 21 minutes (from 10% to 80%).
Exterior
Compared to the first-generation Macan, the Macan EV boasts larger dimensions (+58 mm in length, +11 mm in width, +26 mm in height), accompanied by a longer wheelbase (+86 mm).
These changes contribute to a more robust appearance, as well as a more spacious and comfortable cabin (which we will discuss later).
Moreover, we can describe the exterior design of the Macan EV as a larger Taycan, featuring stylish LED daytime running lights, a sporty roofline, and a full-width LED rear light strip.
Unlike the Taycan, entering and exiting the Macan cabin is easier, aided by the large frameless door openings.
Cabin
If the exterior resembles the Taycan, the layout of the Macan EV’s cabin is not significantly different from that of Porsche’s electric sedan.
For the Macan 4 variant we tested, it is equipped with a curved 12.6-inch digital cluster display, a 10.9-inch central screen, and an impressive head-up display featuring augmented reality technology.
What we appreciate about the Macan EV’s cabin is the similar driving experience to that offered by the Taycan sedan.
The steering wheel retains its round shape, complete with a rotary knob for changing driving modes and a small gear knob located adjacent to the central screen, along with separate climate control buttons positioned on the center console.
This means you no longer need to dive into the infotainment screen menu just to lower the temperature or increase the airflow.
A unique feature of the Porsche Macan EV is the presence of an analog-digital clock perched on the dashboard—a detail that many luxury car manufacturers have overlooked.
Practicality
As mentioned earlier, practicality is the main highlight of the Macan EV—especially when compared to the Taycan sedan.
In addition to easier entry and exit, the seating provided is also quite comfortable, holding the driver and front passenger securely, especially when this electric vehicle is pushed a bit aggressively.
The larger dimensions contribute to a more spacious and comfortable cabin, allowing for more headroom and legroom.
However, it is unfortunate that rear passengers may have to sit somewhat upright.
Most importantly, the Macan EV still offers a cargo space of 540 liters, or up to 1,348 liters when the second-row seats are folded down.
This is ample space for storing items, such as groceries during early-month shopping trips.
The absence of an internal combustion engine in the front provides a frunk (front trunk) of 84 liters—extra space for use if the rear cargo area is already filled.
Driving Experience
The Macan 4 comes equipped with two electric motors, meaning it features an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system.
With precise and quick throttle response, the 387 PS and 650 Nm of power can easily deceive the driver into thinking they are handling an SUV weighing over 2 tons.
What makes the Macan EV significantly better is its sharper and more precise handling, offering more feedback that communicates directly with the driver, making the driving experience feel more assured.
Driving the Macan EV often reminds me of the experience with the Taycan and Taycan Cross from some time ago.
Finally, the Macan 4’s suspension—even without the adaptive air suspension found in the Macan 4S and Macan Turbo—still provides a good balance between sporty handling and comfort for everyday use.
It remains stable on straight highways and does not make the driver feel uneasy when encountering winding roads.
Extra: Experience Losing Control at Sepang
After enjoying a drive across several highways, we were taken to the Driving Experience Center (DEC), located right next to the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit.
Here, two sessions were provided: a slalom session with a high-speed handling session, along with another session to test driver skill on a hydraulic skid plate.
For a vehicle branded as Porsche, it was not difficult for us to maneuver the Macan EV through the slalom course.
The precise and sharp steering feedback, combined with the effective throttle pedal that controls power delivery from the battery to the wheels, and the suspension’s effectiveness in keeping the SUV stable during minimal body roll—even when driven aggressively—contributed to this ease.
However, during the second session, we experienced a loss of control in a Porsche valued under half a million for the first time.
This was the opportunity for the Porsche Macan EV to demonstrate the effectiveness of its stability control system when faced with a sudden loss of grip.
In my first attempt, I could manage the SUV’s loss of control at low speed, but I failed in my second attempt, which was conducted at a higher speed.
Why did I fail? Because the Macan EV I was handling hit the ‘barrier wall’ represented by a row of water fountains.
Despite feeling dissatisfied, it was a valuable lesson learned.
For drivers who are cautious like myself, the likelihood of experiencing a loss of control on the road is nearly zero.
However, such situations can still occur, especially when faced with heavy rain and slippery roads.
This underscores the need for every driver to possess the knowledge and skills to handle their vehicle in emergency situations.
Who Is the Macan 4 Suitable For?
Among the four main Macan variants offered in Malaysia, we believe the Macan 4 is more suitable for those looking to venture into owning a Porsche SUV.
While it features a twin electric motor setup, the power of 387 PS and 650 Nm is not excessively high; it remains reasonable and easy to control for a daily-use vehicle.
Furthermore, the standard AWD system not only contributes to handling and stability at high speeds, but it also ensures the required grip for all four wheels in various weather conditions and road surfaces.
With a range of 613 km and a reasonably light foot on the accelerator, you wouldn’t need to stop frequently to charge the Macan 4, even for trips that exceed two marhalahs.
Most importantly, for an electric SUV, the Macan 4 still manages to offer a balance between dynamic and sporty driving while not sacrificing comfort and practicality for everyday use.
Specifications of Porsche Macan 4
Configuration: Two electric motors
Power: 387 PS/650 Nm
Acceleration: 0-100 km/h in 5.2 seconds
Top speed: 220 km/h
Battery pack: NMC 100 kWh
Range: 613 km
DC charging: 270 kW, 10-80% in 21 minutes
AC charging: 11 kW, 0-100% in 10 hours
Price: RM445,000
Following the EX90 and EX30, Volvo appears ready to launch another electric vehicle, this time in the form of the sedan model ES90.
Built on an 800-volt electric architecture, the Volvo ES90 is claimed to offer a range of up to 700 km based on WLTP cycle data, which is 86 km farther than the range of the EX90.
With this 800V architecture, the Volvo ES90 allows for shorter charging times.
Using a 350 kW DC fast charger, the ES90’s battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in just 20 minutes.
Based on the teaser images provided, the Volvo ES90 features the proportions of a three-box sedan, but with a more aerodynamic roofline that slopes toward the rear.
Other notable features include additional LED light units on the rear pillars, physical side mirrors complete with camera units, and a LIDAR module housing on the roof.
In addition to LIDAR, the Volvo ES90 will be equipped with various components, including five radar units, eight cameras, twelve ultrasonic sensors, and Safe Space Technology supported by artificial intelligence (AI).
The Volvo ES90 will also be the first model from Volvo to come with dual Nvidia Drive AGX Orin systems, providing the most advanced computing capabilities.
It is understood that Volvo will also update the ICE variant of the Volvo S90 as an alternative for those who remain skeptical about electric vehicles—similar to the approach taken with the EX90 and XC90 models previously.
Based on leaked images circulating on social media, the facelifted Volvo S90 will feature a redesigned front end, resembling the changes made to the facelifted XC90.
More information is expected to be announced ahead of the official introduction of the ES90 next month.
The Public Works Department (JKR) of Malaysia has announced the temporary closure of the FT29/FT32 intersection (Kota Warisan-Bandar Baru Salak Tinggi-KLIA) from February 24 to December 10, 2025.
This closure is necessary for the construction of a new four-lane road spanning 1.2 kilometers, the upgrading of the traffic light intersection, and completing remaining works on the bridge across the Labu River.
To address the recurring flooding issues in the area, the existing 250-meter road from the FT29/FT32 Federal Intersection heading towards BBST and KLIA, as well as the 150-meter road heading to Kota Warisan, will be upgraded.
According to JKR, the upgrade works will be carried out in phases, during which the right turn lane at the Kiwa Intersection will be completely shut down for the entire duration of the project.
This means that users traveling from BBST to Kota Warisan will need to follow an alternative route at the traffic lights after the Sepang IPD (District Police Headquarters) leading to the KIPMall intersection.
Meanwhile, users traveling from Putrajaya and Kota Warisan to KLIA will need to use the Bandar Serenia Toll Intersection.
Users are advised to adhere to the safety sign instructions and directions from authorities as needed.
High-performance vehicles, internal combustion engines, and manual transmissions.
This is the recipe that Toyota Gazoo Racing aims to uphold for an extended period, signaling good news for its fans worldwide.
In a report by CarSales AU, Toyota Australia executive Sean Hanley stated, “Internal combustion engines and manual transmissions will continue to be maintained for the long term.”
This approach does not mean that Toyota is completely sidelining modern technology for its Gazoo Racing models.
Toyota has previously explored the possibility of replacing petrol with hydrogen for internal combustion engines, even testing this concept extensively through participation in major races.
Currently, Toyota offers four high-performance models (GR Yaris, GR Supra, GR86, and GR Corolla), and this family of performance vehicles is expected to be joined by new models such as the GR GT3, Celica, and MR2, according to various sources.
There are also reports that Toyota is collaborating with Mazda to develop a sports car featuring a straight-six engine — could this be a replacement for the existing GR Supra?
Whatever Toyota has in store for the future, Hanley wants the Gazoo Racing sub-brand to be better recognized for “the sound, smell, and feel of internal combustion engines.”
Isuzu Malaysia today officially announced the arrival of a new, more affordable variant of the Isuzu D-Max pickup truck: the D-Max Double Cab 1.9L 4×2 Manual Low Ride.
Priced at RM92,199.20 (on-the-road excluding insurance), the D-Max Low Ride is aimed at providing a more cost-effective and efficient transportation solution for business operators, service providers, or companies with large vehicle fleets.
The D-Max Low Ride is powered by a durable and fuel-efficient 1.9-liter diesel engine (code RZ4E-TC) that produces 150 PS and 350 Nm, paired with a six-speed manual transmission.
Compared to the existing D-Max, the D-Max Low Ride features a lower ground clearance, providing a cargo loading height of just 780 mm from the ground, thus facilitating the loading and unloading of goods.
At the same time, the cargo space in the back can accommodate a payload of up to 930 kg.
Standard features of the D-Max Low Ride include Splash White color, halogen headlights, fog lights that also serve as daytime running lights (DRLs), 16-inch alloy wheels with 215/70R16 tires, power windows, and electrically controlled side mirrors.
The cabin space offers fabric-upholstered seating, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, analog gauge cluster combined with a 3.5-inch MID screen, a 12V socket, and a single DIN audio player with support for various music codecs.
In terms of safety, the D-Max Low Ride includes features such as an anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brake force distribution (EBD), brake assist, electronic stability control (ESC), traction control system (TCS), hill start assist (HSA), and downhill control (HDC).
The Isuzu D-Max Low Ride is now available at all official Isuzu showrooms nationwide and comes with a five-year warranty or a mileage limit of 150,000 km.
Tesla has announced the opening of a Tesla Supercharger station located at The Gardens Mall in Kuala Lumpur.
The station features four V4 Supercharger units and one destination charger, providing convenience for electric vehicle (EV) owners who need fast charging while shopping.
According to Tesla Malaysia, the V4 Supercharger can support up to 250 kW, allowing Model 3 and Model Y vehicles to add a range of up to 282 km in just 15 minutes.
The charging cost is only RM1.13 per kWh, and owners will incur an idle fee of RM4.00 per minute if the Supercharger station is full.
To date, Tesla has operated 14 Supercharger stations (64 superchargers) and 15 destination charging stations (70 chargers) across Malaysia.
The destination charging facilities are free for all Tesla vehicle owners until a date that will be announced later.
Local helmet manufacturer Gracshaw has recently launched a limited edition collection of helmets in collaboration with the popular anime franchise Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba.
The collection features four designs inspired by the four main characters from the anime: Tanjiro Kamado (green/black), Nezuko Kamado (pink), Kyojuro Rengoku (flame motif), and Tengen Uzui (sword motif).
Based on the open-face Gennex model, these limited edition helmets emphasize comfort and safety, incorporating features such as a dual ventilation system, a double D-ring locking mechanism, and compliance with standards set by SIRIM.
Gracshaw is offering only 3,000 units of this Demon Slayer edition helmet, with each helmet priced at RM490 and available in sizes ranging from M to XXXL.
Each purchase will come with an exclusive helmet bag, a Demon Slayer sticker set, and Demon Slayer-themed user manual.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia today officially launched the ultra-luxurious Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 SUV, with a starting price of RM1,088,888, excluding customization costs.
Powering the Maybach EQS 680 SUV are dual electric motors, delivering 658 hp and 950 Nm of torque.
The vehicle features several driving modes, including Eco, Sport, Offroad, and Individual.
A special MAYBACH mode replaces the traditional Comfort mode, prioritizing maximum comfort for rear passengers.
A 118 kWh battery pack provides a driving range of 500-608 km on a full charge and supports 22 kW AC charging and DC fast charging up to 200 kW.
Standard equipment on this luxury SUV includes AIRMATIC adaptive suspension, rear-wheel steering, 21-inch Maybach alloy wheels, DIGITAL LIGHT headlights, and illuminated running boards.
The Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 SUV boasts a first-class rear cabin experience, complete with MANUFAKTUR leather upholstery, a Nappa leather headliner, electric sunshades, a dedicated infotainment system, and adjustable seats with heating, massage, and memory functions.
The driver is provided with a steering wheel featuring galvanized paddle shifters, wood trim, and heating, the MBUX Hyperscreen multimedia system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and an augmented reality head-up display.
Additional features include a Burmester 4D surround sound system, ambient lighting, under-console storage, a cabin air filter, and Maybach-specific trim throughout the cabin.
Safety features encompass 11 airbags, the Driving Assistance Package Plus, Distronic Plus, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Steering Assist, Pre-Safe, Active Parking Assist, and Remote Parking functionality.
The action of a man who filed a police report claiming that the car he was driving lost control at KM 14.7 Genting Highlands has proven ineffective as a video of his reckless driving recently went viral on social media.
In a statement issued by the Bentong District Police Headquarters, the 27-year-old man made the police report at the Goh Tong Jaya Police Station, Hulu Selangor, at 11:05 AM on February 23, 2025 (Sunday).
The police also became aware of a 12-second video circulating on social media that shows the same car being driven recklessly, which led to it losing control.
The driver has been contacted again by the Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Unit of Bentong District Police Headquarters to provide a statement.
This case is being investigated under Section 42(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987.
The Chief of Bentong Police, Supt. Zaiham Mohd Kahar, has also urged anyone with information to come forward and assist with the investigation.
Leading dealer group Harmony Auto has now opened the first Denza showroom at Menara Atlan, Kuala Lumpur.
Strategically located in Kuala Lumpur’s golden triangle, the showroom offers easy access for customers to closely examine the newly launched Denza D9 model.
With a floor plan of 5,500 square feet that can accommodate up to six vehicles, this showroom also features a clean, modern minimalist aesthetic with contemporary finishes.
The use of high-quality materials, luxurious lighting, and interactive digital displays is aimed at providing a premium experience for customers.
In addition to the showroom, there are facilities such as a coffee bar and a souvenir merchandise counter.
The Denza showroom is open daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Harmony Auto is also planning to open a 3S Denza center in Skudai, Johor, in the near future.
Bridgestone Tyre Sales (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd recently announced the official opening of the Bridgestone Premium facility located on Jalan Semarak, Kuala Lumpur.
The facility, operated by RSR Tyre & Tuning Sdn Bhd, offers a wide range of high-quality premium tires and comprehensive automotive services for various types of vehicles, including high-performance cars.
Located just 4 km from the PETRONAS Twin Towers, the Bridgestone Premium store provides easier access for customers around the capital city.
Bridgestone Premium is also committed to ensuring that every customer receives the highest standard of care, safety, and performance with each visit, reinforcing its dedication to excellence in automotive service.
According to Michael Chung, Managing Director of Bridgestone Tyre Sales (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, “In line with the Bridgestone E8 Commitment, particularly the value of ‘Ease,’ we are dedicated to offering a smooth and premium retail experience while providing peace of mind for customers making their tire choices.”
“Through expert guidance and product availability, we aim to enhance mobility by offering a comfortable and hassle-free tire selection process.
“Our collaboration with RSR Tyre & Tuning Sdn Bhd reflects a strategic approach to partnering with experienced and trusted dealers, ensuring a more valuable retail experience for our customers,” he added.
PETRONAS Sprinta is now the strategic partner of the Ducati Official Club Malaysia (DOCM) for the year 2025.
The announcement was made during the 8th Annual General Meeting (AGM), which currently has a membership of 1,600 individuals.
The collaboration between both parties is expected to further elevate the status of DOCM while strengthening its position as a leading Ducati community in Malaysia and Asia.
According to Zameer Zahur Hussain, Chief Executive Officer of PETRONAS Lubricants Marketing Malaysia (PLMM), “We are very excited to partner with DOCM and be their main partner for 2025.
“Our goal is to enhance our brand presence within the local motorcycle community and showcase the superior quality of PETRONAS Sprinta products.
“Through this collaboration, we intend to support the Ducati community while strengthening the market penetration of our Malaysian-made products in the domestic market.”
The annual gathering, held at the Movenpick Hotel and Convention Centre KLIA, also featured 301 Ducati motorcycles from various models on display.
Edaran Modenas Sdn Bhd (EMOS) has officially launched the retro motorcycle Kawasaki Z650RS for the Malaysian market, coinciding with the opening of the Kawasaki Puncak Alam showroom earlier today.
The Kawasaki Z650RS is powered by the same 649 cc parallel-twin engine found in the Ninja 650 and Z650 models, producing 67 hp and 65.7 Nm of torque.
Power is transmitted to the wheels via a six-speed transmission, complemented by an assist and slipper clutch.
The Z650RS features a high-strength steel trellis frame, along with a 41 mm front fork and a horizontal back-link rear suspension, allowing for wheel travel of 100 mm and 125 mm, respectively.
The braking system consists of dual 300 mm discs at the front paired with a two-piston caliper, and a single 220 mm rotor with a single-piston caliper at the rear.
Other features include a 12-liter fuel tank, an 820 mm seat height, LED front and rear lights, an analog speedometer with a digital LCD screen, as well as dual-channel ABS and Traction Control (KTRC) for added safety.
The Kawasaki Z650RS is priced at RM37,200 and is available at all Kawasaki All-Star showrooms across the country.
The Kawasaki Puncak Alam 4S center is the seventh facility in Malaysia and the second in Selangor operated by Puncak Alam Motoworld Sdn Bhd.
For 2025, MODENAS plans to establish 13 more Kawasaki 4S centers throughout Malaysia.
Not just building on the simple hybrid systems that already used in its existing production models, Yamaha has now presented the Series Parallel Hybrid Electric Vehicle (SPHEV) prototype, specifically engineered for the mid-class scooter segment.
This parallel hybrid system combines an engine with two electric motors fitted onto a modified XMAX scooter.
One of the electric motors is used to drive the wheels, while the other is directly connected to the engine to generate electric power.
Similar to any hybrid powertrain, the SPHEV system offers an electric driving mode that operates without engine assistance, a series hybrid driving mode for more efficient riding, and an engine operation mode for higher speeds.
Interestingly, the SPHEV system also features a boost mode.
The dual boost mode will harness power from both the engine and the drive motor, while the triple boost mode will utilize power from the generator motor.
In addition to scooters, Yamaha is also exploring the potential of this powertrain unit for integration with other models, such as street bikes and sports bikes.
Following the reveal of the Kia EV4, Kia has unveiled another purpose-built electric vehicle, the Kia PV5.
In terms of design, the Kia PV5 does not present significant differences compared to the PV5 Concept that was showcased over a year ago.
The Kia PV5 is available in both passenger van and cargo van versions.
The main difference between the two models is the presence of side windows in the passenger van, while the cargo van features sliding doors on both the left and right sides of the vehicle, along with twin tailgate openings at the back.
In addition, both models share similar design elements, such as LED daytime running lights (DRL) located at the end of the windshield, followed by the charging port and headlight unit in the center of the front fascia.
It also features relatively large door handles and vertical rear light units.
According to Kia, in addition to the passenger van and cargo van configurations, buyers will also have the option to choose from several other configurations for the PV5 or customize specifications according to their needs.
The full specifications of the Kia PV5 will be officially revealed on February 27.
The Road Transport Department (JPJ) recently announced a recall campaign involving 41,688 vehicles.
In a press release, the department stated that this initiative aims to inspect the vehicles due to defects in their structure, equipment, or systems, in addition to preventing potential accidents.
According to JPJ, each affected owner will be contacted by their respective vehicle manufacturers to schedule an inspection appointment.
Any components associated with the identified issues will be replaced, and the cost of replacements will be borne by the respective vehicle manufacturers.
JPJ will also monitor the implementation of this recall campaign to ensure that all affected vehicles are confirmed as safe.
A list of the affected vehicles can be referenced in the gallery below:
The second-generation mid-size premium SUV Volvo XC60 has been on the market since 2017.
This best-selling Volvo model has been updated for the 2026 model year, featuring several cosmetic changes borrowed from the XC90.
For instance, it has a redesigned grille structure, darker rear light units, and new wheel designs.
In addition, the Volvo XC60 is now offered in two new colors: Forest Lake and Aurora Silver, along with Mulberry Red for the first time.
Stepping inside the cabin, the XC60 is equipped with a larger infotainment screen (11.2 inches), supported by the latest software, over-the-air (OTA) updates, and upgraded hardware.
Thanks to the use of Qualcomm’s new-generation Snapdragon Cockpit Platform, this infotainment system is significantly faster than the existing one.
There have been no changes to the engine offerings, meaning the XC60 continues to feature the B5 mild hybrid variant with 250 PS, the T6 PHEV with 350 PS, or the T8 PHEV with 461 PS, depending on the market.
The new generation of the Kia Sportage was officially launched at the end of last year as a locally assembled unit (CKD), although it actually arrived somewhat late compared to other markets.
With a competitively priced package accompanied by appealing specifications, the Kia Sportage has the potential to be an alternative in a market dominated by Japanese SUVs such as the Honda CR-V and Toyota Corolla Cross.
Based on a short test drive recently, the writer was generally satisfied with what the Kia Sportage offers.
Not all vehicles are perfect in their offerings; there are a few minor weaknesses present in this C-segment SUV.
However, for us, these are minor issues if you can tolerate the shortcomings and prioritize driving satisfaction.
Not Everyone is Fond of the Rotary PRND Dial
The variant we tested is equipped with a 1.6-liter turbo engine paired with a dual-clutch transmission (DCT) and e-shift functionality.
This means it does not come with the conventional gear lever commonly found in other SUV models.
The benefit of using a rotary dial is that it creates a more spacious cockpit appearance, but not everyone appreciates this feature.
Personally, I prefer a physical PRND gear lever, which is easier to control and aligns better with the muscle movements we are accustomed to.
Empty Function Buttons on the Center Console
Kia Sportage Euro spec
Located next to the rotary PRND dial, you will notice a cluster of empty function buttons on the center console.
It is unfortunate that these function buttons are not assigned any features, unlike international specifications that offer features like heated steering wheels and heated or ventilated seats.
It appears empty and gives the impression that the Sportage 1.6T is a lower variant.
Climate Control Panel May Be Difficult to Use
Another interesting feature of the Kia Sportage 1.6T is the touch-based climate control panel and infotainment system located below the central air vents.
Essentially, the driver no longer needs to dig through control menus typically embedded in the infotainment screen.
However, it operates using a touch system, and at times it can be a bit difficult to control, especially for drivers with larger fingers.
At first glance, one might mistake this for a futuristic motorcycle straight out of the 1988 animated film Akira that has been brought to life in the real world.
In reality, this motorcycle is crafted by the Japanese design firm Ichiban, drawing inspiration from the fictional motorcycle mentioned earlier.
Unlike the fictional motorcycle from Akira, Ichiban’s two-wheeled machine takes a more minimalist approach.
In addition to the angular body panels and engine cover, it features a simple handlebar complete with a digital display screen reminiscent of 1980s video game graphics.
It is also equipped with LED headlights shaped like pills and a rear light that features overlapping horizontal line graphics.
Finally, the Ichiban motorcycle is dressed in a striking red and white two-tone color scheme—once again reminding us of the bikes from the Akira anime.
According to information on its official website, the Ichiban motorcycle is powered by two electric motors with 6.7 hp, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds and boasting a riding range of 250 km.
Interestingly, there is a “Godzilla” mode that allows riders to maintain a speed of 100 km/h for up to 10 seconds.
Safety features included are an anti-lock braking system (ABS) and traction control.
It should be noted that Ichiban’s electric two-wheeled machine is still a concept model, but it is highly likely to enter the prototype production phase before being sold to the public.
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