Category Archives: NEWS

NEWS

Scarbo SV Rover is a lavish 1,100-hp hypertruck

FANS of the late Ken Block will remember his insane Porsche 911 dubbed the Hoonipigasus, which was built to conquer the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. The company that built the car, Scarbo Vintage, is now back with an equally bonkers truck called the SV Rover.

Claimed to be the world’s first street-legal hypertruck, the SV Rover appears to be a mashup between the classic Land Rover Defender and the Lamborghini LM002. According to Scarbo, the bodywork is made out of aluminium and carbon fibre.

The interior is luxuriously appointed with Alcantara trim, billet aluminum accents, and modern amenities such as a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.8-inch infotainment display, paddle shifters, and an engine start button.

Customers can choose between a V8 supercharged engine producing 1,100 hp with an 8-speed automatic transmission or an electric powertrain with a 75-kWh battery generating 1,005 hp.

Regardless of the powertrain chosen, the SV Rover comes with a 4WD system, high and low-range transfer case, and selectable front- and rear-locking differentials.

It is equipped with pushrod suspension at the front and rear, providing an impressive 30 inches of wheel travel.

Additionally, the truck is equipped with 20-inch forged rims wrapped in 40-inch tyres, air ride suspension with user-adjustable height control and valving, as well as adjustable dampers. The braking system comprises 400 mm carbon ceramic rotors and six-piston Brembo calipers.

Needless to say, the SV Rover is only for the truly rich, with each unit costing $1.5 million (RM7.2 million) excluding customisation optins.

NEWS

2024 Range Rover Evoque in Malaysia – three trims, from RM499k

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THE 2024 Range Rover Evoque facelift has finally arrived in Malaysia, following its global debut in the middle of last year.

For the Malaysian market, there are three variant options with the following prices:

Evoque P200 Dynamic SE (M spec): RM498,800
Evoque P250 (H spec): RM529,800
Evoque P250 Dynamic HSE (L spec): RM565,800

All three variants are powered by a 2.0-liter Ingenium 4-cylinder petrol engine, but with different output levels. The P200 generates 200PS and 320Nm of torque, delivering a 0-100 acceleration performance in 8.6 seconds.

Next, the Evoque P250 offers 249PS and 365Nm of torque, capable of reaching 100km/h in 7.6 seconds.

However, all models come with a 9-speed ZF automatic gearbox and the Efficient Driveline all-wheel-drive system with Driveline Disconnect function.

Now, let’s look at the updates in this facelift model. On the exterior, it adopts a design language similar to its siblings, the Velar and L460 Range Rover. The LED headlights with DRL are slimmer, and a square pattern has been added to the front grille.

The “double U-shaped” rear lights have now been replaced by a wider single U-shape. The Range Rover Evoque is available in Corinthian Bronze, Tribeca Blue, and Arroios Grey colors.

Updates in the cabin include a new 11.4-inch “floating” infotainment display. Physical buttons have been reduced, providing a minimalist feel, while also creating more storage space.

Other features include wireless Qi charging, a new steering wheel with Moonlight Chrome accents, and a new gear selector.

The standard package on the P200 Dynamic SE includes 20-inch alloy wheels, Ebony leather upholstery, 12-way adjustable driver’s seat, dual-zone air conditioning, a 12.3-inch instrument display, wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity, a 400-watt Meridian audio system, reverse camera, and power tailgate.

The P250 variant additionally features automatic high beam headlights, fog lights, 3D 360-degree camera, and ClearSight rear-view mirror.

The top-tier Dynamic HSE version is equipped with Pixel LED matrix headlights, 21-inch wheels, Windsor leather upholstery, panoramic roof, 14-way seat adjustment, adaptive suspension, and head-up display.

All variants are offered with ADAS safety systems such as Autonomous Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring, Traffic Sign Recognition, and Rear Cross Traffic Monitor.

NEWS

Mercedes-AMG A45 S Limited Edition pays tribute to the Green Hell

The AMG Green Hell Magno is an exclusive paintwork created by Mercedes-AMG as a tribute to the famous Nurburgring Nordschleife, which bears the nickname “Green Hell.”

The unique colour made its debut back in 2018 with the Mercedes-AMG GT R. Now, the same eye-searing shade will be offered in the form of the A45 S Limited Edition.

Interestingly, despite being labeled as a ‘Limited Edition’, the production of this model will not be limited but it will only be available until the end of 2024.

What makes the A45 S Limited Edition stand out compared to the standard version? In addition to the distinctive colour, it also features yellow accents, glossy black highlights, and a large “A45 S” lettering on the doors.

The hot hatch also rolls on matte black 19-inch AMG forged wheels in a seven-twin-spoke design. If that’s not enough, Mercedes is also offering three equipment packages – the AMG Night Package, the AMG Night Package II, and rhe AMG Aerodynamics Package.

The AMG Night Package brings black and high-gloss black design elements such as the front splitter, side mirrors, beltline, and dark-tinted window surfaces from the B-pillar.

The AMG Night Package II adds darkened struts on the radiator trim black detailing on the radiator trim, as well as the black chrome typography on the front fenders and tailgate, the Mercedes star and exclusive to the edition the door handles and the Mercedes stars in the wheel hub caps.

The AMG Aerodynamics Package is particularly eye-catching as it contains special add-on parts and a fixed AMG rear wing developed in the wind tunnel. According to Mercedes, the package increases contact pressure and improves driving characteristics at high speeds.

Inside, you will find the same black and yellow theme as on the exterior, along with Artico leather and Microcut microfiber upholstery wrapping the AMG Performance seats and steering wheel. The headrests of the seats also bear the embroidered 4S S lettering.

Unfortunately, the A45 S Limited Edition gets no performance enhancements. The turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine continues to put out 421 hp and 500 Nm, making the A45 S the most powerful hot hatch in the world.

With an 8-speed automatic transmission and the 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system, it can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds before reaching a top speed of 270 km/h.

NEWS

Daihatsu announces leadership reshuffle following safety scandal

DAIHATSU Motor Co. Ltd, which has been embroiled in a safety test scandal since last year, has announced a new structure that will take over the company’s leadership effective March 1.

The new leadership structure will see Daihatsu’s current chairman, Sunao Matsubayashi, and its current president, Soichiro Okudaira, stepping down from their positions.

Matsubayashi will be replaced by Masahiro Inoue, who is currently the Chief Executive Officer of Toyota Motor Corporation in Latin America and the Caribbean, while Okudaira’s position will be taken over by Masanori Kuwata, the head of the Lexus International Co’s electrification promotion project.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Chief Officer of Toyota Customer First Promotion, Keiko Yanagi, will replace Masahiro Yamamoto as a non-resident director of Daihatsu.

In a joint statement, Daihatsu and Toyota stated that they will implement comprehensive measures to prevent such manipulation from recurring and strive towards Daihatsu’s recovery.

“We would like to again offer our deepest apologies to our customers, suppliers, dealers, the communities in which our plants are located, and our many other stakeholders for the inconvenience and concern caused by the recent issue of certification irregularities.

“Although all plants of Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd. (Daihatsu) in Japan suspended operations following our announcements made on December 20, we were able to resume production and shipments of some vehicles as of yesterday,” the company said.

NEWS

This is the 2024 Ypsilon, Lancia’s first new car in 13 years!

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Who would have thought this would happen, but here it is, the all-new Lancia. The problem is, this Italian brand has not produced cars for the past 13 years.

Stellantis is determined to keep all 14 of its subsidiary brands under the FCA-PSA merger. This also means Lancia has the opportunity to improve its image.

This new 2024 Ypsilon becomes Lancia’s first electric vehicle (EV), although hybrid and petrol versions are set to follow.

It is built on the shared CMP/eCMP platform with the Peugeot 208/e-208, with different exterior styling. Lancia stated that the design of its front and rear lights is inspired by their iconic rally car. The round rear lights are reminiscent of the Stratos.

There are also ‘Y’ motifs on the front and rear lights. Meanwhile, the wheel arches, side mirrors, and rear pillars are finished in black. The interior of the cabin is quite different from its Peugeot counterpart, but given that we are in 2024, there are still two screens on the dashboard.

There are also several physical buttons for air conditioning control. Lancia has provided wireless charging pads, three USB-C sockets, and connectivity for Apple Carplay and Android Auto. Additional features include ambient lighting and a cabin filter.

The Lancia Ypsilon is powered by a front-mounted electric motor with an output of 154hp and 260Nm of torque. Power is supplied by a 51kWh battery pack, providing a driving range of 403km.

For charging, the battery can reach 80 percent from 20 percent in just 24 minutes using a DC charger.

What are your thoughts on this Lancia Ypsilon? Are there fans who miss the Lancia brand?

EV, NEWS

Tesla sold a total of one car in South Korea in January

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In Malaysia, Tesla is much lauded by electric vehicle (EV) users and enthusiasts alike, but in South Korea, it’s an entirely different story.

According to a report by Free Malaysia Today, the Texas-based EV manufacturer only managed to sell one car, a Model Y, in January due to concerns about safety, pricing, and charging infrastructure.

Data from the Seoul-based research firm Carisyou and the Korea Ministry of Trade indicates that this marked Tesla’s worst sales performance since July 2022, when it sold no vehicles at all.

Carisyou also reported that the number of new EV registrations in the country declined by 80% in January 2023 compared to December 2022.

It is understood that the slow reception for EVs in South Korea is due to higher interest rates and inflation, which have forced consumers to restrain their spending.

Furthermore, concerns about battery fires and a shortage of fast chargers have also contributed to the decline in EV demand there.

Lee Hang-Koo, head of the Jeonbuk Institute of Automotive Convergence Technology said most Koreans who wanted a Tesla car have already bought one.

In fact, some Koreans dislike Tesla and are concerned about the quality of production after learning that some of them are made in China.

Lee also mentioned that many people avoided buying vehicles in January because they were waiting for the government’s announcement of subsidies.

NEWS

2025 Aston Martin Vantage gains more power, wider body

THE Aston Martin Vantage has been on the market for about six years now, which means the two-seater sports car is ripe enough for an update.

For the 2025 model year, the Vantage draws inspiration from the One-77 supercar with a completely redesigned front-end featuring a larger grille and a body standing 30 mm wider.

According to Aston Martin, the grille offers 29% increase in mass airflow for additional cooling, assisted by air intakes in each corner of the front bumper. There’s also a new front splitter that provides high speed stability through lift reduction.

The interior showcases a completely new layout featuring slimmer AC vents and a 10.25-inch touchscreen, similar to the one found in the DB12.

The car comes with standard Aston Martin audio system with 11 speakers as well as override switches for Chassis, ESP and Exhaust, Lane Assist and Park Distance Control.

Alternatively, customers can opt for the 1,170-watt Bowers & Wilkins audio system that comes with a total of 15 speakers, a subwoofer, and aluminum tweeters.

The Vantage still retains the Mercedes-AMG 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine but the output has been bumped up to 665 PS and 800 Nm, representing an increase of 155 PS and 115 Nm than before.

The higher output is achieved through the use of modified cam profiles, optimised compression ratios, larger turbos, and increased cooling.

Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission from ZF, the Vantage can accelerate from 0 to 96 km/h in 3.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 325 km/h.

Aston Martin says the standing start acceleration is aided by a new Launch Control system that channels as much torque as conditions allow, using the E-Diff, ESP slip control and engine torque management to keep wheel slip in the optimal range.

In addition to the more powerful engine, the Vantage also benefits from a bonded aluminum structure that provides a 50:50 weight distribution and increased torsional rigidity.

Not only that, the electronic power-assisted steering (EPAS) system has been retuned to provide the driver with more immediate and precise response.

NEWS

Aveta Malaysia appoints 8 new spare part stockists

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AVETA Malaysia recently announced the appointment of eight (8) new stockists across six states, providing customers with faster and easier access to genuine parts throughout Malaysia.

The appointments of the new stockists are inline with the Aveta Customer Care Program that was announced during the launch of the Aveta Ranger Max Explorer motorcycle in 2023.

The company says the appointment of the stockists is vital to ensure that owners get immediate access to genuine spare parts.

The eight appointed stockists are:

  • Kedah – Boon Lee Auto Sdn Bhd
  • Kuala Lumpur – DS Cycle Parts Sdn Bhd
  • Selangor – Yong Xin Auto Parts Sdn Bhd
  • Pahang – T.T. Cycle Parts Sdn Bhd
  • Pahang – Sing Yie Motor Sdn Bhd
  • Sabah – Eko Ken Motor Sdn Bhd
  • Sarawak – Ji Yun Resources
  • Sarawak – Ghee Yong Enterprise Sdn Bhd

Effective immediately, these eight stockists are now available for customers to obtain spare parts, alongside authorised dealerships.

Customers can also directly contact the Aveta spare parts support line at +012 686 8753 from Monday to Friday (8.30am – 5.30pm).

For more details of the appointed Aveta stockists, visit the Aveta website at www.aveta.com.my/aveta-stockist

 

NEWS

This Honda CR-V Hydrogen could power your coffee machine

Honda has collaborated with General Motors to develop a new generation fuel cell system that will become part of the FCEV package for the CR-V.

Revealed in a new video, it shows the CR-V as the indirect successor to the discontinued Honda Clarity, which ceased production in 2021. However, Honda is making a slight difference this time as the new CR-V will combine fuel cells with a battery pack.

The promotional video showcases the benefits of dual charging, where the owner charges their coffee machine in a remote area using the car’s battery, then proceeds to a hydrogen station to refill the H2 fuel in the rear tank. In reality, this dual charging system is not new.

Many electric vehicles (EVs) offer this functionality, such as the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, Nissan Leaf, Ford F-150 Lightning, and Chery Omoda E5.

Additionally, adding a battery pack will certainly enhance the practicality of the Honda CR-V Hydrogen, especially considering the limited availability of hydrogen refueling stations.

Honda has not shared much further information, but it is evident that the CR-V Hydrogen will be produced at the Performance Manufacturing Centre (PMC) in Ohio. This is the same facility that once manufactured the Honda NSX hybrid.

The prototype in this video is clad in a blue wrap, clearly indicating the United States (US) version as it features side marker lights on the bumper. Compared to the standard CR-V, this model has clear taillights and a charging port on the front fender.

NEWS

‘Mr. Bean’ blamed for slow EV car sales in UK

ACTOR Mr. Bean, Rowan Atkinson, has been criticized following the sale of electric vehicles (EVs) in the United Kingdom that is reported to be sluggish or less appealing, as reported by Sky News.

Atkinson’s name was mentioned during a climate change and environment meeting at the House of Lords last week. They said that Atkinson’s comments worsened EV sales in the UK.

The comment was published in The Guardian on June 3, 2023, where Atkinson said, “electric vehicles are not as environmentally friendly as claimed.”

He also commented on the impact of EVs on the environment, their production, alternative fuel sources, car lifespan, and “our honeymoon with EVs is over.”

The following week, The Guardian published another article by Simon Evans, deputy editor of Carbon Brief, who confirmed the inaccuracies of Atkinson’s claims.

In the meeting, the Green Alliance provided its opinion on the main obstacles facing the UK government in the process of phasing out diesel and petrol cars before 2035.

They said, “One of the most damaging articles is the written comment by Rowan Atkinson in The Guardian, which has been proven wrong.”

“Unfortunately, fact-checking will not reach as widely as the initial false claims.”

Last year, the UK government announced the postponement of the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars to 2035. According to them, the change is “more practical, suitable, and realistic,” alleviating the burden on workers.

NEWS

2024 Kia Carnival now open for booking – 3 variants, from RM199k

DINAMIKJAYA Motors Sdn Bhd, the official distributor of the Kia brand in Malaysia, has introduced the 2024 Kia Carnival, which brings a slew of upgrades.

As before, the Carnival is locally assembled and is available in configurations of seven-, eight- and 11-seat configurations. However, the number of offered variants has been reduced from four to three, namely:

  • 2.2L 11-seater – RM198,500
  • 2.2L 8-seater – RM245,888
  • 2.2L 7-seater – RM259,888

All three variants are powered by a 2.2-liter turbodiesel engine producing 199 hp at 3,800 rpm and 440 Nm from 1,750 to 2,750 rpm.

The engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission tasked with delivering power to the front wheels.

What’s new with the 2024 model? According to Dinamikjaya, the appearance of the seven and eight-seater Carnival models has been enhanced with black 19-inch alloy wheels, as well as black and gray leatherette upholstery.

Both variants retain the premium features offered previously, which include LED daytime running lights, twin sunroof, Smart Power Sliding Door, and Smart Power Tailgate.

Additionally, niceties such as heated and ventilated seats, LED interior lighting, and Surround View Monitor are also carried over. However, the Premium Relaxation seats with its centre walkthrough configuration are only available in the seven-seater variant.

Meanwhile, the 11-seater Carnival continues to offer four rows of seating with a 2-3-3-3 configuration, suitable for those with large families.

For entertainment, the Carnival comes with a 12.3-inch touchscreen with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, alongside creature comforts such as wireless charging, Bluetooth, and seven USB charging ports.

The safety system for the seven and eight-seater variants has been upgraded with the addition of a new feature, the Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM).

In case you didn’t know, the Carnival is locally assembled at the Inokom assembly plant in Kulim, Kedah. For the 2024 model, there are four exterior colours to choose from – Astra Blue, Snow White Pearl, Meteor Gray, and Jet Black.

Bookings for the MPV are now open, and each purchase comes with a manufacturer’s warranty for five years/100,000 km and a free scheduled maintenance package for five years/100,000 km.

NEWS

Off The Grid 2024 happening from Feb 23-25, a must visit for all outdoor enthusiasts

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From February 23rd to 25th, the Malaysia Agro Exposition Park Serdang (MAEPS) will play host to the Off The Grid (OTG), an event specially tailored for outdoor lifestyle enthusiasts.

Organised by the same team behind Art of Speed (AOS), the event is inspired by Japan’s biggest annual outdoor lifestyle event, ‘Fieldstyle’ and is expected to attract approximately 30,000 visitors.

Set to take place inside the 150,000 sq ft Hall A, OTG 2024 will feature five main attractions, as follows:

  • An outdoor lifestyle vendor exhibition featuring leading brands such as Montanic Adventure Store, Anbot Store, Campguru, Eiger Adventure, Pahlawan Store, Outside Malaysia, EcoFlow, and many more.
  • Brew Festa is a slow bar concept with an outdoor/camping theme where baristas dedicate their time to meticulously craft coffee specifically for coffee enthusiasts looking to stimulate their brain neurons.
  • BBQ Showdown is a nightmare for vegans hosted by MeatXpert Premium Butcher.
  • Makers Jamboree & Pasor Dinda Ladies Market is the best place for vintage and rare item hunters.
  • Exciting activities for the whole family including skimpool, surf skate, roller disco, strider races, and hourly lucky draws for those who spend RM100 in a single receipt.

In addition to these main attractions, visitors can also enjoy traditional and acoustic performances, as well as participate in meet-ups for van campers, MINI RC Crawler hobbyists, and much more.

Vendors at OTG 2024 also have the opportunity to participate in the Best Booth Competition, which is divided into two categories: Best Vendor Booth (Food and Community) and Best Brand Booth.

The winners in each category will win a trip for one to the 2024 Fieldstyle Jamboree in Nagoya, Japan on May 18th and 19th, 2024.

Those interested in attending OTG 2024 can obtain weekend passes online for RM35 or RM50 if purchased on-site. The weekend pass is valid for a three-day entry.

There are also single-day passes available for RM15 if purchased online or RM20 if bought directly at the venue. Entry is free for children under 12 years old and for OKU cardholders.

Tickets can be purchased through the official website at https://otg.artofspeedmy.com/ticket/. A processing fee of RM3 per ticket will be charged for all online purchases.

NEWS

Proton sold 12,882 units in January 2024, their best start to year since 2013

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PROTON has announced its sales performance for the month of January 2024, with 12,882 units (domestic and export) sold last month.

According to the national car manufacturer, this marks their best start to a year since 2013. The figure represents a 1.3% increase compared to December 2023 and a gain of 10.3% compared to the same period last year.

Meanwhile, the national automaker’s market share for January is estimated at 19.5%, which is 3.3% higher compared to the previous month.

The Total-Industry-Volume (TIV) is estimated at 66,134 units, which would translate to a decline of 15.6% compared to December that saw the numbers inflated by the traditional year-end push for higher vehicle sales to close 2023.

On individual models, the Saga maintains its popularity with 6,129 units sold, followed by Malaysia’s most popular SUV, the X50, with 2,002 units, and the B-segment sedan leader, Persona, with 1,846 units.

In fourth place is Proton’s newest model, the S70, which recorded sales of 1,442 units last month. Proton says the sedan now has over 8,000 orders, reflecting the strong and positive response it has received from eager customers.

The S70 also made its way to its first export market in Brunei, as 15 units were delivered ahead of its official launch there in February.

Proton’s flagship model, the X90, also performed well with 365 units sold last month, solidifying its position as the leader in the D-segment SUV market.

NEWS

Trade-in your old Chery to a brand new Chery, get RM3,000

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For owners of older Chery vehicles who are considering a change, there is a significant reason why you should consider switching to a new Chery.

This is because Chery Malaysia has introduced the Chery Trade-In Campaign, tailored for your transition to the latest Chery vehicles. Additionally, Chery Malaysia is offering an additional RM3,000 (subject to terms and conditions) for those making this switch.

This initiative aims to enhance the ownership experience for Chery enthusiasts through a simplified trade-in process and exclusive incentives for their brand loyalty. The trade-in campaign provides an opportunity for Chery vehicle owners to upgrade to the latest models equipped with cutting-edge technological features and enhancements designed to elevate the driving experience.

With a commitment to modern innovation, sustainability, and future design, Chery is dedicated to providing its customers with the latest advancements in automotive technology.

Chery vehicle owners can visit any Chery showroom nationwide starting from February 9, 2024, to participate in the Chery Trade-In Campaign. Meanwhile, Chery Malaysia will celebrate the Chinese New Year with grand festivities at all its showrooms nationwide from February 9 to February 24.

In addition to test driving sessions, the public is encouraged to bring their families and friends to join various activities including Chinese calligraphy workshops, traditional Chinese paper-cutting art, and other engaging activities.

In Malaysia, Chery currently offers the Omoda 5 and Tiggo 8 Pro. Furthermore, an electric model, the Omoda E5, will be launched in March of this year.

NEWS

Ferrari is spotted testing Tesla Model S in Maranello

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THE Prancing Horse brand is reported to be testing an electric-powered model near its manufacturing plant in Maranello.

Based on a video by the Varryx YouTube channel, Ferrari engineers were seen selecting a Tesla Model S Plaid equipped with high-voltage stickers and 19-inch rims.

This is part of Ferrari’s preparation to launch an electric vehicle expected to debut in 2025.

By using the Tesla Model S Plaid as the test car, Ferrari’s first electric vehicle is likely to feature two to three electric motors and power that could potentially match the Lanzador model from its competitor, Lamborghini.

For reference, the Tesla Model S Plaid is capable of producing up to 1,020 hp, while the Lamborghini Lanzador can reach up to 1 megawatt (1,341 hp).

In recent years, many parties have begun using Tesla electric cars to study the engineering behind EVs, such as Porsche, Volvo, and Ford.

This is because Tesla was among the earliest to enter the EV arena and one of the first to offer electric vehicles with a relatively long range.

Therefore, it makes sense for other manufacturers to try to learn from the strengths and weaknesses of Tesla to apply them to their own products.

NEWS

Isuzu records outstanding sales for 2023, number 1 in the truck segment

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ISUZU Malaysia has once again achieved outstanding performance by recording the highest truck sales compared to other brands for the year 2023. This achievement places Isuzu in the number 1 position in the overall truck segment for 10 consecutive years and in the light-duty truck brand segment for 14 consecutive years in Malaysia.

Isuzu’s leading position in the market is reinforced by the overall sales performance of 7,209 units, including light, medium, and heavy-duty trucks for the previous year. This represents a 44.9 percent market share in the overall truck segment in Malaysia.

Meanwhile, the light-duty truck segment recorded sales of 6,864 units, marking the highest sales in Malaysia for that segment.

Isuzu Malaysia recorded a growth of 2.7 percent compared to the previous financial year, demonstrating continuous positive growth for Isuzu Malaysia.

In terms of sales, Isuzu Malaysia achieved a positive growth of 11 percent in the medium-duty truck, heavy-duty truck, and prime mover segments for 2023.

Shunsuke Okazoe, Chief Executive Officer of Isuzu Malaysia, said, “We are extremely proud to achieve this remarkable success once again and to remain the best-selling truck brand in Malaysia. Maintaining this success for over a decade certainly exceeds our expectations.”

“At the same time, we are very excited to know that our continued market leadership clearly demonstrates Isuzu Malaysia’s commitment to providing the widest and most advanced range of trucks to our customers, despite navigating changing industry landscapes.”

“The stability of the economy and the recovery of the supply chain have contributed to the positive growth in the commercial vehicle market, especially in the light-duty truck segment. This positive performance further highlights our presence in this market,” Okazoe added.

NEWS

Audi RS6 Avant GT is a 630-PS, 850-Nm super wagon

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You may have forgotten about it but about three years ago, Audi introduced the RS6 GTO Concept that took inspiration from the Audi 90 quattro IMSA GTO race car.

That concept car now has made it to production through a limited edition model known as the RS6 Avant GT.

Only 660 units of the GT will be offered, all of which will be assembled at Böllinger Höfe, where the R8, e-tron GT quattro and RS e-tron GT are built in small-series production.

As you can see, the RS6 Avant GT is not exactly a carbon copy of the RS6 GTO but there are some elements that have been carried over from the concept car.

These include the Singleframe and the air intakes finished entirely in high-gloss black, integrated air outlets behind the front wheels, and the distinctive double wing.

The livery on the RS6 Avant GT appears slightly different from that of the RS6 GTO but still retains the traditional Audi Sport colours of black, grey, and red.

In addition, the wagon also comes with a fully redesigned hood and fenders manufactured from carbon fibre, marking the first time the RS6 Avant has received such addenda.

The wheels come in 22-inch sizes and are available in glossy white, glossy black, or matte black, depending on the chosen body colour.

Meanwhile, the black interior is enhanced by numerous accents in the red and copper, which can be found on the steering wheel, the sides of the center console, the center armrest and door armrests and the floor mats.

The RS6 Avant GT comes standard with RS bucket seats wrapped in leather and Dinamica upholstery. The seats are also adorned with Express Red honeycomb stitching in the center and copper trims on the outer seams.

Included are also Dinamica microfibre trims on the dashboard, centre console, and doors, red seat belts, and the car’s serial number on the centre console.

Like the RS6 Avant Performance, the GT is powered by a 4.0-litre bi-turbo V8 TFSI engine that produces a whopping 630 PS and 850 Nm.

However, in terms of performance, this one is even more impressive, accelerating from 0-100 km/h in just 3.3 seconds, making it 0.1 seconds faster than the Performance version.

For the 0-200 km/h sprint, the GT needs only 11.5 seconds to accomplish, while the maximum speed is rated at 305 km/h.

To make it more agile on corners, Audi has installed an adjustable coilover suspension system as standard. It lowers the ride height by 10 mm compared to the RS6 Avant and offers a perfect combination of dynamics and comfort.

Alternatively, customers can opt for the RS sport suspension plus with Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) or the RS adaptive air suspension.

Other goodies found in the GT include stiffer stabiliser bars (30% in the front, 80% in the rear), reworked quattro sport differential on the rear axle, and 285/30 Continental Sport Contact 7 tyres

EV, NEWS

Jeep Wagoneer S – brand’s first EV SUV boasts 4 screens, McIntosh sound system

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JEEP has unveiled some initial details and teaser photos of the Wagoneer S, its first global all-electric SUV, which is expected to be launched into the market in the fall of this year.

First up, the Wagoneer S is a mid-size SUV said to have a body size almost identical to the Grand Cherokee.

It is built on Stellantis’ STLA-Large platform and reportedly features a twin-motor setup that’s capable of generating 600 hp, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 96 km/h in just 3.5 seconds.

The battery capacity is unknown at the time of writing, but there are rumors that suggest it could offer a maximum driving range of up to 800 km.

Looking at the interior photos, the Wagoneer S appears to have no less than four screens, including a digital instrument cluster, an infotainment display, a display for the front passenger, and another screen specifically for the climate control system.

Not only that, the Wagoneer S will also feature a premium MacIntosh audio system with 19 speakers, a colour-selectable ambient lighting system and a standard dual-pane panoramic sunroof.

Also visible is the EV’s centre console, which houses the Start/Stop button, a rotary gear selector, and a toggle-style switch that enables drivers to select Sand, Snow, Eco, Auto, and Sport driving modes.

NEWS

MG set to make a comeback in Malaysia

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The iconic British automotive brand Morris Garages, or better known as MG is set to make its return to the Malaysian market through SAIC Motor Malaysia as the official distributor.

No exact dates have been given but according to SAIC Motor Malaysia, the public can expect “the grand unveiling of its latest models in Malaysia soon.”

We also don’t know which models will be offered here but that being said, the newly set up MG Malaysia website showcases three electric models, namely the MG4, ZS EV, and Cyberster.

 

The MG4 is an electric hatchback with dimensions similar to that of the BYD Dolphin.

According to paultan.org, the Thai-market version features a single electric motor producing 170 PS and 250 Nm, with a 51-kWh battery offering a driving range of up to 350 km.

On the other hand, the ZS EV is an SUV equipped with a 51.1-kWh battery providing a driving range of 320 km. It is reported that there is also a 72.6 kWh variant offering a longer range of 440 km.

Meanwhile, the Cyberster is available in three variants in China. The Glamour Edition is equipped with a single electric motor on the rear axle developing 314 PS/475 Nm, and a 64-kWh battery with a range of 501 km.

The Style Edition has a 77-kWh battery with a range of 580 km, while the Pioneer Edition offers a slightly shorter range of 520 km from the same battery. This is mainly due to its twin-motor setup that makes 544 PS and 725 Nm of torque.

NEWS

Ducati Lenovo Team back in Sepang for 2024 pre-season testing

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AFTER the Campioni in Pista event and the team presentation at Madonna di Campiglio (Italy), Francesco Bagnaia and Enea Bastianini are now ready to hit the track at Sepang for the first three days of pre-season testing, scheduled from today, February 6 to Thursday, February 8 at the Malaysian circuit.

On the same track that will host the Malaysian GP in November, test rider Michele Pirro participated in the ‘shakedown’ from February 1 to 3.

Thanks to mostly stable weather conditions, the rider from San Giovanni Rotondo could conduct several tests on the Desmosedici GP, try new components, and initiate the development work. It is now up to the factory riders to continue the work over the next three days of testing at Sepang.

“During these three days of ‘shakedown’, we accomplished a significant part of the development,” said Pirro.

“The hot conditions at Sepang allowed us to conduct some specific testing. Additionally, we tested the new aero package, tried the new engine, and made a solid working base for the upcoming three days of testing that the factory riders will now face. The start has been positive, and we are satisfied. Now, we will try to continue in this direction.”

Meanwhile, Bagnaia is excited to back at the circuit. He said, “I’ve missed my Desmosedici GP during this winter break, so I’m thrilled to finally be back on track at Sepang for the first test of 2024.”

“We have three demanding but also crucial days ahead of us. Hopefully, the weather will allow us to take full advantage of all the available time.”

Bastianini commented, “I’m thrilled to be back. Throughout the winter, I’ve dedicated myself to reaching the right physical condition before the Sepang test.”

“Last week, I was also in Portimão with fellow Ducati riders, training with my Panigale V4S, and now I’m ready! In the Valencia test, I received positive feedback, and I immediately took a liking to the new bike. Here, we’ll try with some new items, but overall, I’m confident. These three days are crucial, and I’ll be putting in a lot of hard work”.

The factory Ducati Lenovo Team riders will hit the track for the first day of testing at Sepang tomorrow, Monday, February 5. They will have eight uninterrupted hours on the track, starting at 10:00am.