In conjunction with its 80th anniversary, Kia UK has unveiled a restomod project of the 1990s small hatchback bearing the Kia Pride EV brand.
This compact car was originally a rebranded version of the Ford Festiva, and was also marketed as the Mazda 121 model.
While it used to be equipped with 1.1 and 1.3-liter internal combustion engines, this latest restomod project has replaced these powerplants with a zero-emission powertrain unit producing 107 hp and 235 Nm of torque.
Utilizing expertise from Electrogenic, Kia has retained the original five-speed manual transmission, albeit with a performance-oriented clutch kit.
Despite the stated changes, the overall weight of this Pride EV is only 870 kg, which is 20 kg heavier than the original model.
For comparison, the modern EV6 from Kia, featuring a single electric motor with 225 hp, has a curb weight of around 2,065 kg.
The Kia Pride also offers several driving mode options.
In Eco mode, it limits power to 60 hp/118 Nm with a 0-100 km/h acceleration in 11.8 seconds, similar to the original ICE model.
The Auto driving mode (80 hp/176 Nm) offers a more modern EV driving experience, along with suitable regenerative braking function for urban use.
The Sport mode allows for a 0-100 km/h acceleration in eight seconds.
These sporty characteristics are well hidden as a key part of this car’s sleeper appeal, including the retention of the original 12-inch tire size and authentic rim caps.
Furthermore, the charging socket is also discreetly hidden behind the original fuel filler cap, which can be locked from the outside.
Other than the standard exterior appearance, Kia has only upgraded a few aspects, such as the White Pearl exterior paint, front and rear lights, and new upholstery for the cabin space.
Additionally, the original instrument cluster is still retained, with the only change being the fuel gauge, which has been converted into a battery capacity indicator.
One noticeable drawback of the Kia Pride EV is its limited range, approximately 193 km only.
This is because, unlike modern EVs, the Kia Pride EV has been fitted with two battery packs each with a capacity of 10 kWh (one in the front and one under the trunk floor).
With a charging power of 3.3 kW, it takes about six hours to fully charge.
Considering the level of craftsmanship exhibited by the Kia Pride EV, it would not be surprising for local manufacturers to embark on a restomod project using iconic models such as the Proton Saga Knight or Perodua Kancil.
The tighter current emission regulations have forced Toyota to shorten the lifespan of the existing rear-wheel-drive GR86 model to make way for a replacement model.
According to a report from the Japanese media Best Car Web, the new generation Toyota GR86 will replace the existing 2.4-liter naturally aspirated Subaru flat-four engine with the G16E-GTS three-cylinder engine found in the GR Yaris and GR Corolla.
This ‘heart’ change is seen as a game-changer for the GR86, considering the purest Toyota sports car has relatively low horsepower (228 hp) compared to its competitors. For comparison, the GR Yaris and GR Corolla can produce 300 hp each.
In addition to the engine swap, Toyota will also add a hybrid system to the new GR86 with a setup similar to that found in the off-road SUV model Land Cruiser Prado (250 Series). Overall, this new GR86 can unleash more than 300 hp to power the rear wheels through a choice of manual or automatic transmission.
This is not the first time news of a powertrain change for the GR86 has been reported. According to the same source last year, Toyota was said to be replacing the Subaru platform to make way for the shorter Lexus IS chassis.
Certainly, the new generation Toyota GR86 with its hybrid engine setup seems poised to close the existing power gap in the compact sports car segment and at the same time delight its fans worldwide.
At the Ducati World Premiere 2025, the Italian motorcycle manufacturer showcased two updated Scrambler models: the Scrambler Icon Dark and Scrambler Full Throttle.
The Scrambler Icon Dark features an aggressive all-black appearance, highlighted by a matte black tank and a modern version of the Scrambler logo. Its side panels and rear fairing contribute to a lighter look.
In contrast, the Scrambler Full Throttle draws inspiration from 1970s flat track motorcycles. This is evident in its black and bronze livery, along with side panels adorned with the number 62, commemorating the year the Scrambler was first introduced—1962.
Additionally, the design is emphasized with lower handlebars, a short front mudguard, a Termignoni silencer, and Ducati Performance LED indicators. Also included is an up/down Quickshifter.
As before, the Scrambler is powered by an air-cooled 803cc twin-cylinder engine, producing 73 horsepower at 8,250 rpm and 65.2 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm. This engine is paired with a six-speed transmission.
The suspension system consists of KYB inverted forks at the front and a monoshock rear shock absorber with preload adjustment. The bike features 18-inch wheels at the front and 17-inch wheels at the rear.
Other retained features include a 4.3-inch TFT screen, Ride-by-Wire throttle, Riding Modes, and Cornering ABS.
According to Ducati, the Scrambler Icon Dark will be available in the market starting this month, followed by the Full Throttle in December.
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 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.
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 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.
Sime Darby Motors (SDM) has announced that it has sold over 10,000 BYD vehicles nationwide since being appointed the official distributor of the brand in September 2022.
To celebrate this achievement, Sime Darby Motors recently organised the ‘BYD Dream Drive Melaka 2024’ convoy, which was joined by over 60 BYD vehicles.
According to the company, Melaka was chosen to coincide with this year’s 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China, making it an apt destination given its historical connections with China dating back to the 15th century.
Jeffrey Gan, the Managing Director of Southeast Asia at Sime Darby Motors, stated the milestone reflected the growing adoption of electric vehicles in the region and Sime Darby’s strong position as a leader in EV.
“Our commitment to providing the best experience and services through this strategic partnership with BYD has contributed to this success,” he added.
Eagle Zhao, the Managing Director of BYD Malaysia, added, “This milestone reflects the trust and support of our customers who embrace the future of mobility with BYD. It’s been an incredible journey with Sime Darby Motors and we look forward to elevating sustainable driving experiences in Malaysia.”
BYD Malaysia said it has set its sights on reaching the next 10,000 cars milestone in a shorter timeframe.
Meanwhile, Sime Darby Motors plans to expand the BYD network in Malaysia to 30 showrooms by the end of this year. Currently, there are 26 BYD showrooms nationwide. This consists of 19 dealer partners, with 16 3S centres and 10 1S centres.
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.
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.
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.
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.
BYD is set to further expand its electric vehicle lineup in Malaysia with a new MPV called the M6.
In a recent media Q&A session in Changsha, China, Liu Xueliang, General Manager of BYD Asia-Pacific Auto Sales Division, confirmed that the fully-electric MPV will enter the Malaysian market this year.
However, the exact launch date is still unknown, along with the specifications and variants that will be offered.
It is expected that the specifications for the Malaysian market will not differ significantly from those available in Indonesia and Thailand.
In Indonesia, the M6 can be hand in six- or seven-seat configurations, while in Thailand, it is available only as a six-seater.
Both markets offer two output variants. The base variant, powered by a front axle electric motor, has 163 PS and 310 Nm of torque, whereas the more powerful variant (known as Superior in Indonesia and Extended in Thailand) gets 204 PS and 310 Nm from the same single-motor setup.
As with other BYD EVs, juice for the motor is supplied by an LFP battery, with a capacity of 55.4 kWh for the base variant and 71.8 kWh for the Superior/Extended variants. This equals to an NEDC range of up to 420 km for the former and 530 km for the latter.
The base M6 supports 85-kW DC fast charging, while the Superior/Extended can accommodate up to 115 kW, allowing the battery to be charged from 10% to 80% in just 40 minutes. Meanwhile, AC charging is limited to 7 kW for both variants.
The M6 can be considered a replacement for the e6, which was supposed to launch in Malaysia after the Atto 3. Compared to the e6, its exterior design aligns more closely with recent BYD models, featuring a silver grille that connects to the projector LED headlights.
On the side, chrome trim is generously applied on the window frames and side skirts, while the rear boasts a full-width light strip accompanied by a chrome strip. Unlike the Atto 3, the M6 ditches the “Build Your Dream” wording with the more understated “BYD” badge.
While the interior is evidently more conventional compared to the Atto 3 or Dolphin, the M6 still offers a comprehensive equipment list, which includes a 12.8-inch rotating screen, dual wireless charging, keyless entry, a panoramic glass roof, and automatic air conditioning, to name a few.
In terms of safety, the M6 comes equipped with six airbags and plenty of ADAS features such as Autonomous Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Centring Assist, Emergency Lane Keeping Assist, and Blind Spot Monitoring.
As for pricing, the M6 is sold for between 379 million to 429 million rupiah (approximately RM102,968 to RM116,481) in Indonesia, while in Thailand, it starts from 829,900 baht to 929,900 baht (around RM106,014 to RM118,788).
The Subaru Chiffon is a kei car based on the Daihatsu Tanto that has been available in the Japanese market since 2016.
Thanks to a growing interest in outdoor lifestyles, Subaru has now introduced a more rugged version of the Chiffon known as the Chiffon Try.
While the basic shape of the Chiffon remains unchanged, the Try version sports a more robust appearance brought about by a skid plate and black plastic accents on the front bumper, rear bumper, and sides.
Additionally, the car also comes equipped with roof rails. For colour options, there are 11 choices available, including five new colours: Black Mica Metallic/Lake Blue Metallic, Black Mica Metallic/Sand Beige Metallic, Black Mica Metallic/Forest Khaki Metallic, Lake Blue Metallic, and Forest Khaki Metallic.
Measuring approximately 3,395 mm in length, 1,475 mm in width, 1,755 mm in height, and with a wheelbase of 2,460 mm, the Chiffon Try is unmistakably compact.
However, egress and ingress is an easy affair due to the lack of B-pillars. Subaru coins this particular design as the “Miracle Open Door,” which also incorporates electric sliding doors for added convenience.
The interior design is not significantly different from the base version; however, as a variant tailored for outdoor activities, the Chiffon Try features water-resistant upholstery on all seats.
Additionally, the Chiffon Try offers a flexible seating configuration, allowing the front seats to slide back up to 540 mm. The front seats can also be fully reclined, enabling passengers to rest or to accommodate longer items like surfboards.
To maximise rear legroom or cargo space, the rear seats can also slide up to 240 mm.
Powering the Chiffon Try is a 660 cc three-cylinder engine that generates 52 PS and 60 Nm of torque. A CVT is responsible for delivering power to the front wheels, with an all-wheel-drive (AWD) version available for customers as an alternative.
Pricing in Japan starts at 1,665,000 yen (approximately RM48,171) for the 2WD version and 1,765,000 yen (approximately RM51,064) for the AWD version.
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.”
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 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 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.
Following its preview last August, the new MG5 has now been officially launched for the local market.
The sedan with a fastback design is available in a single variant with a starting price of RM93,900.
However, in conjunction with MG’s 100th anniversary campaign, SAIC Motor Malaysia is offering a rebate of RM7,000, bringing the price down to RM86,900.
For extra peace of mind, the MG5 comes with an unlimited mileage warranty for five years and a seven-year unlimited mileage warranty for the engine and transmission.
In terms of size, the MG5 is closer to a C-segment sedan, measuring 4,675 mm in length, 1,842 mm in width, 1,480 mm in height, and with a wheelbase of 2,680 mm.
However, SAIC Motor Malaysia, the official distributor of the MG brand in the country, says the MG5 will be marketed as a B-segment sedan, making it the largest in its class.
When compared to its closest competitors, such as the Honda City and Toyota Vios, the MG5 boasts a more prominent profile thanks to its sporty fastback coupe design.
Included features comprise LED daytime running lights, a 3D grille, 17-inch Tomahawk alloy wheels, a sunroof, and a ducktail spoiler at the rear.
There are five exterior colours available to choose from, namely Nuclear Yellow, Dynamic Red, Arctic White, Black Pearl, and Camden Grey.
Inside, you will find black leather upholstery with contrasting red stitching, as well as a seven-inch digital instrument panel and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Other features include a single-zone air conditioning system with a rear air vent, a PM2.5 air filter, six speakers, three USB charging slots, and a 360-degree surround camera system.
Powering the MG5 is a 1.5-litre four-cylinder DVVT engine that’s good for 114 PS at 6,000 rpm and 150 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm.
With an iCVT transmission with eight gear ratios driving the front wheels, the MG5 is capable of a fuel consumption figure of 17.5 km/l.
According to SAIC Motor Malaysia, the powertrain has undergone durability testing over a distance of 2.35 million km.
On the safety front, the MG5 is equipped with MG Pilot, which includes Lane Departure Warning, Lane Change Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Collision Warning, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
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
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