THE Volkswagen Golf GTI continues to receive updates for the Malaysian market, this time incorporating the Harman Kardon audio system and a head-up display. The 2024 revised hot hatch for 2024 is now priced at RM252,900.
The premium Harman Kardon audio system in the Golf GTI consists of 10 speakers with a 480-watt capacity. The head-up display presents driving information such as speed, navigation, and warning systems in the driver’s line of sight on the main mirror.
Other features of this high-performance hot hatch remain unchanged from before. It is powered by a 2.0 TSI turbo petrol engine with an output of 245hp and 370Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed DSG gearbox (wet clutch).
Exterior upgrades include a honeycomb front grille, red GTI accents, 18-inch Richmond alloy wheels, red brake calipers, and full LED lighting system.
The IQ Drive safety features from the previous iteration are also retained, encompassing systems like Travel Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Side Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Assist, and Adaptive Lane Guidance.
Every purchase of the Volkswagen Golf GTI is covered by a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty, complimentary maintenance for 5 years, and 5-year roadside assistance.
Chery Omoda E5 is set to be launched in March 2024, offering another compact B-segment SUV option with electric (EV) propulsion.
The Omoda E5 is equipped with a lithium iron phosphate battery, which is said to be more environmentally friendly. It has higher energy density for greater storage, thus offering a longer driving range, according to Chery.
Furthermore, Chery claims that the lithium iron phosphate battery can reduce the frequency and cost of battery replacement. This SUV can travel up to 430km on a single charge. With fast DC charging, it can be charged from 30 to 80 percent in just 30 minutes.
With an output of approximately 201hp (150kW), the Omoda E5 can accelerate to 100km/h in 7.8 seconds, and Chery claims that the SUV has an efficiency of 15kWh per 100km.
In terms of appearance, the Omoda E5 EV does not feature a grille like the petrol version; instead, its front space is enclosed. It also comes with aero rims for improved aerodynamic efficiency. The driving features of the Omoda E5 include Easy Start-Up, Creep, Pocket Brake, One Pedal Driving, and AGS Active Air Intake System.
The Chery Omoda E5 also supports V2L function, allowing external device charging such as ovens, grills, rice cookers, and even electric scooters.
Chery Eco Run
Chery Malaysia has announced that this model will be available in seven body color options with three interior colors. Chery Eco Run Meanwhile, the Omoda E5 will be used as the Lead Car for the Chery Eco Run, which will take place at Dataran Wawasan Putrajaya on Sunday, January 7.
Carrying the theme “A New Journey To A New Green Life,” the event is in line with Chery Omoda E5’s environmental protection message. It is organized by Jom Run and is expected to attract over 3,000 participants.
THE curtains have closed on the year 2023, which seemed like a busy period for the Malaysian electric vehicle market, thanks to the influx of new offerings coming on to the local EV scene.
So without further ado, let’s revisit the 10 most exciting EVs launched in our market throughout last year. Not that the cars in this list is not sorted in order.
Tesla Model 3 Highland
The Model 3 facelift, also known as the Highland, was launched shortly after Tesla marked its entry into Malaysia with the Model Y.
The electric sedan is arguably the most anticipated EV of the year, and this is not surprising as it looks even better than before and comes with various improvements and competitive pricing.
Unfortunately, we have yet to try the new Model 3 but we have a feeling that the driving experience will be rather different from other EVs with the omission of the gear selector and turn indicators.
Audi e-tron GT
Unlike the Porsche Taycan, the Audi e-tron GT can definitely make you feel you’re Mr Stark himself.
The e-tron GT is easily one the most attractive EVs on the market, and its on-track performance has also been proven during a test drive session at the Sepang International Circuit a while ago.
For the Malaysian market, you can get the e-tron GT in the base version or the RS version, which has higher power output, a rear differential lock, rear-wheel steering, and an adaptive air suspension system.
Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has been actively expanding its EQ electric vehicle lineup, this time with the launch of yet another model, the EQS SUV.
Available in the sole EQS 580 4Matic AMG Line variant, it is equipped with a 107.8 kWh battery that offers a range of up to 615 km on a full charge. Rapid DC charging at 200 kW allows the battery to be charged from 10% to 80% in 31 minutes.
There’s a long list of standard features on board, which include AMG Line body kit, 22-inch AMG wheels, MBUX infotainment system with Hyperscreen, and Airmatic air suspension system.
BMW i7
Say what you want about exterior design of the i7, but this car has earned BMW’s “most powerful EV” title with a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 3.7 seconds for the M70 variant.
In the xDrive60 M Sport guise, this electric limousine has 544 PS and 745 Nm, enabling acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 4.7 seconds before reaching a maximum speed of 240 km/h. Its range is equally impressive at 625 km.
If performance is not your priority, the i7 still offers a high level of comfort and luxury that can be expected from the 7 Series. There’s plenty of new tech and gadgets inside, including a 31.3-inch drop-dpwn screen for the rear passangers.
Hyundai Ioniq 6
Following the encouraging response received for the Ioniq 5, Hyundai has decided to introduce another EV model to the local market, namely the Ioniq 6.
This streamliner-shaped sedan is available in Max RWD and Max AWD variants, offering ranges of up to 614 km and 519 km, with prices ranging from RM289,888 to RM319,888.
If that seems expensive, Hyundai also offers Lite and Plus variants priced from RM219,888. Most of the standard features are retained, but both variants have a lower power output, and the range is shorter at 429 km.
THE curtains have closed on the year 2023, which seemed like a busy period for the Malaysian electric vehicle market, thanks to the influx of new offerings coming on to the local EV scene.
So without further ado, let’s revisit the 10 most exciting EVs launched in our market throughout last year. Note that the cars in this list is not sorted in order.
Lotus Eletre
There are many reasons to like the Eletre, whether or not you are a fan of Lotus. Firstly, it is the first production SUV for the brand known for its small and lightweight sports cars.
It may be an electric SUV, but the Eletre has what it takes to blow the existing ICE Lotus vehicles out of the water with a total system output of 905 hp and 985 Nm in its most powerful version, the R.
Its rather aggressive exterior design may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but the Eletre’s space-age cabin should leave youe in awe.
Smart #1
After months of teasers, the smart #1 was finally launched last November, offering three variants with selling prices ranging from RM189,000 to RM249,000.
The prices may seem a tad steep but with the #1, you truly get what you pay for. In other words, the #1 is a premium EV with a wide variety of features.
The Pro and Premium variants are equally impressive, with acceleration performance of 0-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and a range of 440 km. If that’s not enough, the Brabus variant offers a sportier look with red trims and two electric motors.
BYD Dolphin
The BYD Dolphin is the Chinese EV manufacturer’s second model to arrive in Malaysia, following the Atto 3. With a starting price below of RM100,000, it is also one of the most affordable EVs in the market.
True to its name, the Dolphin’s exterior design is rather adorable, enhanced by attractive LED signature lights at the front and rear. Its interior space looks unique with a funky dashboard design and vibrant color theme.
In addition to the impressive driving range (410 km to 490 km, NEDC), what’s appealing about the Dolphin is the amount of standard equipment buyers get, which include wireless Apple CarPlay, a 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen, and ADAS, to name a few.
Rolls-Royce Spectre
This ultra-luxurious electric coupe arrived in Malaysia last September as the most expensive EV in the country, with a price starting from RM2 million excluding options.
If V12-powered cars like the Ghost and Dawn are sometimes described as “eerily silent”, imagine a Rolls-Royce without an internal combustion engine.
With a 102-kWh battery, the Spectre can drive up to 520 km on a full charge. Charging from 10% to 80% can be achieved in just 34 minutes via a 195 kW DC charger. Interestingly, the Spectre is the first two-door coupe Rolls-Royce to come with 23-inch wheels in almost 100 years.
BMW iX M60
The first electric SAV model in the BMW M portfolio is powered by two electric motors producing a total power of 619 PS and 1,015 Nm.
If that torque figure isn’t high enough, the Launch Control function will boost it to 1,100 Nm to enable the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds. The maximum speed is capped at 250 km/h.
A 105.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack provides a driving range of up to 561 km, but with the bonkers ouput, it seems that not many drivers will be able to reach 500 km on a single charge.
FOLLOWING the launch of the Aveta Service Corner (ASC) earlier this month, Aveta Malaysia continues its customer care initiative with the introduction of its latest program called ‘Aveta Care on Wheels’.
The launch of this initiative is part of the manufacturer’s efforts to expand its sales and after-sales service network to meet customer needs.
ACW is a mobile service team consisting of one pickup truck and three motorcycles. The team’s mission is to reach customers nationwide to address any issues that cannot be solved by local dealers.
The team consists of service professionals from Aveta Malaysia who have been specially trained to troubleshoot and resolve any issues that may arise.
“At Aveta, we are deeply passionate about meeting our customers’ needs. We understand that attractive products alone are not enough. A brand can only succeed when it has a comprehensive customer care program that wins the hearts and confidence of its customers,” said Steven Lim, group managing director.
ACW covers the entire Peninsular Malaysia with plans to expand the initiative in East Malaysia. It is already operational and is available from Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Appointments can be made by calling the Aveta Customer Careline at +60129565409.
Everyone knows that the Nissan GT-R R35 is now aging, although it is still the most high-performance car sold by Nissan today.
However, Artisan Vehicle Design seems to have a way to make it more appealing. The tuning company is developing an R35 with the body style of the R34, a completely new interior, and up to 1,000hp. Limited production, of course.
Sounds like the perfect GT-R, doesn’t it? Because you get modern performance from the R35 but with the cool classic look of the R34. The writer prefers the look of the R34 Skyline, do you agree?
To achieve this result, Artisan is replacing all R35 body panels with carbon fiber components to reduce weight while increasing rigidity. The lighting system is also completely new.
For colors, Artisan offers iconic GT-R colors like Millenium Jade, Midnight Purple, and Bayside Blue. But you can also choose any other color you want.
The interior is equipped with a new infotainment system, and the dashboard and door trim are different from the standard GT-R. There are also carbon fiber accents and Alcantara leather wrap in some areas.
Now let’s talk about the mechanical aspects. If you purchase this Artisan GT-R, you can choose between two power packages: Track or Ultimate. Track gives you 800hp while Ultimate offers up to 1,000hp. Both versions come with upgraded brakes, tires, and suspension, ensuring the car is always under control.
These images are still in the concept phase, but the actual prototype will be unveiled at the 2024 SEMA event, and production will begin thereafter.
Only 36 units will be produced worldwide, starting at a price of USD450,000 (RM2.085 million). If you have the budget, would you grab one?
PERAK Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad said that the state government has agreed to provide a location for the construction of a university in Proton City, Tanjung Malim, as proposed by Zhejiang Geely Holding Group.
According to Saarani, the matter was discussed two weeks ago, during the company’s senior management visit to Perak.
“During the discussion, they asked us to provide a location for the development of the university, and at the same time, we have suggested several locations that we feel are suitable.
“However, no specific period has been set for the construction of this university, as well as other details,” he said.
Saarani added that the construction of the university was seen as significant, especially in providing job opportunities to various levels of society, especially the youth.
“In other words, the opening of this university will usually make a place a new development centre. So you can imagine all the possibilities,” he said.
In October, Geely and DRB-Hicom signed a joint venture agreement for the development of the Automotive Hi-Tech Valley (AHTV) in Tanjong Malim, Perak, which is expected to attract RM32bil in investments.
THE Proton Arena is among the national car company’s models that didn’t sell well initially, but is now in high demand. The price is still steep, a brief survey on sales websites shows prices are still around RM25,000 to RM35,000.
However, in the United Kingdom (UK), there is a Proton Arena for sale at only £2,500 (RM14,739)! The Arena is known as the Proton Jumbuck in export markets such as the UK and Australia.
Not only is the price quite attractive, but this yellow Proton Jumbuck unit is even ‘copied’ with parts from the Satria GTi!
This can be seen in the front bumper, side fenders, and interior parts such as the dashboard, Recaro seats, pedals, and original GTi carpets. Quite handsome, if I may say so myself…
According to its owner, Paul Atkinson, who advertised the Jumbuck on the Proton gti owners UK page on Facebook, the engine is also from the GTi, a 4G93P 1.8-liter 16-valve unit.
The Proton Jumbuck GTi is painted in a sporty yellow color. It is further given a rally image with items such as WRC side mirrors, mud flaps, 15-inch white Momo rims, and the writer’s favorite, a pair of round spot lights at the front!
According to Atkinson, the Jumbuck is being sold because there have been changes to its design. “Jumbuck’s are getting quite rare now and especially modified ones,” he said.
“It always gets lots of compliments and is pretty quick for what it is (circa 140bhp), early Evo engines do drop straight in.
“MOT until August 2024, 100,000 miles, and the car is in Grantham, Lincolnshire,” Atkinson wrote.
Imagine if this Proton Arena were available in Malaysia, its price would surely easily reach RM55,000. Perhaps even more. This is because its other specifications are also quite tempting.
Below, we list what Atkinson shared:
Modifications:
• Satria GTi engine and gearbox (1.8 16v)
• Hockley exhaust manifold
• Custom stainless exhaust
• Pipercross induction kit
• Satria GTi interior
• Deep dish steering wheel
• Rearview camera
• CB radio
• Satria GTi body kit (front bumper & arches)
• Evo front suspension
• 15” Momo alloys (recently refurbished)
• 195 50 15 Avon ZV7 tires (new)
• WRC-style mirrors
• WRC-style mud flaps
• Rally spot lights
• Truckman cab
• LED rear work lights
• Air horns
• Tow bar
• Rear step
VOLKSWAGEN Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has issued a recall involving 6,671 vehicles manufactured between 2010 and 2014 following a Takata airbag safety issue.
This recall campaign involves six Volkswagen models, namely the sixth-generation Golf GTI, Eos, Passat CC, Polo, Beetle, and Vento, which are equipped with a specific driver front airbag gas generator housing.
According to VPCM, the concern with the front driver airbag housing generator is caused by deterioration of the generator’s propellant due to high air humidity and temperature fluctuations over a long period of time. This could lead to potential injury on the driver and passenger.
In an official statement, the company said that they have taken the necessary steps with its dealer partners to ensure parts availability and that the recall is conducted smoothly and efficiently. The nationwide recall will be carried out in phases to manage the number of cases.
“All notifications to identified owners, based on the Volkswagen database will be conducted by email and WhatsApp, and customers who purchased the vehicle from a previous owner or a used car dealership are advised to urgently contact the nearest Volkswagen authorised dealer for verification,” it said.
Should parts replacement be required in the event of parts replacement, all labour and replacement parts for this service will be at no cost to owners, the company added.
IN light of recent developments surrounding the safety test at Daihatsu Motor Co Ltd (DMC), UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd (UMWT) has released a statement ensuring customers and the public that it is committed to transparency and accountability.
This follows the statement released by Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) highligthing a procedural irregularity in in the testing of models by DMC, impacting three models distributed by UMWT in Malaysia.
President of UMW Toyota Motor, Datuk Ravindran K. said, “We emphasise our dedication to maintaing the highest standards and quality in our vehicles. Rest assured, we are actively working to ensure that all our vehicles in Malaysia strictly adhere to the relevant regulations and rules.”
Ravindran stated that UMWT is also working closely with regulatory authorities to promptly and transparently address this matter, maintaining its commitment to delivering high-quality vehicles to the Malaysian market.
“We understand the importance of trust, and we we want to reinforce the confidence our customers place in us. Our dedication to customer satisfaction has always been and remains our top priority,” he added.
In a statement issued on December 20th, TMC stated that an investigation conducted by an independent third-party committee found new irregularities in 174 items within 25 test categories. This is in addition to the door lining irregularity in April and the side collision test irregularity in May.
These encompassed a total of 64 models and three engines of vehicles (total of models currently being produced, developed, or ceased in production), including 22 models and one engine being sold by Toyota. The affected Toyota models sold in Malaysia are the Rush, Veloz, and Yaris/Vios.
In light of this, TMC and DMC have temporarily suspended shipments of all affected models both in Japan and overseas.
After five years of silence in Malaysia’s rally sports due to the absence of roaring engines in the oil palm plantations, it is now set to make a comeback with the launch of the Malaysia International Rally Championship (MIRC) 2024.
Scheduled to take place in March 2024, this carnival-style event will be held in Paya Besar, passing through the Felda Panching oil palm plantation near the city of Kuantan, Pahang.
The challenging and high-speed rally through the oil palm plantations has given rise to prominent figures in Malaysian rally such as Karamjit Singh. It has become a unique landscape that puts Malaysia on the international rally calendar.
The MIRC race will be organized by the Millennium Motorsport Adventure Club (MMAC) and managed by a prominent event management company, Semenyih Eco-Ventures Resort & Recreation, in collaboration with strategic partners from the Paya Besar Parliamentary Office, Kuantan City Council, Pahang State Government, and Pahang Corporation.
The event is also recognized by the Motorsports Association of Malaysia (MAM) and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Malaysia.
The Event Director, Dato’ Seri Mohamad Khafey Ikhwan Bin Abdul Latiff, stated, “The organization of this MIRC is distinct from previous organizers. The main event is the rally race itself, which will feature racers and the latest cars from China, Thailand, and Indonesia.
“Furthermore, local racers are sure to anticipate the return of the greatness of rally sports in Malaysia.”
He added, “To enhance the excitement throughout the week, we will also organize a carnival and food festival at two main locations, namely the Felda Panching Carnival Site and the Kuantan City Carnival Site in Pahang.
The rally race will offer a total cash prize of almost RM30,000 to all 4WD and 2WD category winners, including overall motorcycle prizes for each category competed.
Other additional prizes will also be announced later.
Stay tuned for our coverage leading up to and after the race.
JAGUAR Land Rover Malaysia (JLRM) has announced that the facelifted Range Rover Evoque will be launched in January 2024.
The premium compact SUV made its global debut in June this year with fresher design cues and a host of latest features.
Exterior-wise, the basic shape of the Evoque remains but the SUV now gets a redesigned grille, new Pixel LED headlights with jewel-like daytime running lights, as well as new rear lights with super-red rear illuminationthat enhances visibility and diminishes glare.
In addition, the charateristic ‘floating’ roof effect and flush deployable door handles are further complemented with new accent and colour options.
Inside, the Evoque features the latest-generation Pivi Pro infotainment system with a new 11.4-inch curved glass touchscreen, that provides access to all vehicle functions.
Controls for the climate and audio volume are consistently within view via new sidebars, featuring multi-functional sliding controls on either side.
There’s also a new centre console design which provides ample internal storage space and Wireless Device Charging below the touchscreen.
According to JLRM, the Evoque facelift will be offered with the Ingenium petrol engine that offers enhanced
fuel efficiency, smoothness and responsiveness. That being said, the actual variant that will be offered is not specified.
Those interested in taking a closer look at the new Range Rover Evoque facelift are welcome to visit JLRM’s roadshow happening at Bangsar Shopping Centre from January 3rd to 7th, 2024.
NEWLY joining the Idemitsu Super Endurance 600 Southeast Asia Trophy race, the Wing Hin Motorsports team from Malaysia emerged as champions in their class.
In the race at the Chang International Circuit in Thailand, all three cars successfully completed the race, which featured a total of 64 cars.
The Toyota Vios #483, driven by Boy Wong and Dannies Ng, won the D4 Class and finished in 9th place overall.
The Toyota Yaris #338, driven by Naquib Azlan and Mitchell Cheah, finished in third place in the D3 Class, while the Toyota Yaris #339, driven by Amer Harris and Nabil Azlan, finished seventh in the D3 Class.
This victory in the race also marked the third success for Wing Hin Motorsports in Thailand this year. Previously, they clinched the D5 Class title at the Idemitsu Super Endurance 400 Minutes (September) and the Idemitsu Super Turbo Championship Junior.
“This weekend’s race saw us competing in the D4 Class for our engine segment as well as the D3 Class for the overall race and we extremely ecstatic with the results albeit so many uncertainties and nerve-racking moments on the track,” said the principal of the Wing Hin Motorsports team, William Loh.
“Ending the year with a Class win, and to have all three cars finishing in the top 20 is nevertheless a great way to end the racing season. We will definitely be back, and even stronger,” he added.
TRIUMPH Daytona is set to make a comeback in 2024 with the launch of the Daytona 660 scheduled for January 9, according to the latest announcement shared on social media.
The Triumph Daytona 660 will be powered by the same 660cc three-cylinder engine used in the Tiger Sport 660 and Trident 660.
In addition to the engine, it is believed that the Daytona 660 will also utilize the same chassis as the Trident 660. This marks the first return of the Daytona to the global market since the British brand discontinued the Daytona 675 in 2017.
Despite the comeback with the Daytona 765, which was limited to 1,530 units as a commemorative model celebrating Triumph’s success as the engine supplier for Moto2 in 2020.
The Daytona 660 is expected to offer power figures similar to the Trident 660, around 80hp and 64Nm. For fans of the previous Daytona models, there might be disappointment as the earlier 675 model offered 126hp and 70.2Nm.
Furthermore, the design of the Daytona 660 will be distinct, especially the front headlight, which appears to borrow design elements from the Tiger Sport 660.
At present, detailed information remains limited, but all will be revealed on January 6.
AFTER nearly five years on the market, the McLaren GT makes way for its replacement, known as the GTS.
The newest offering from Woking boasts a number of enhancements, which cover areas such as the design, equipment, and perhaps more excitingly, performance.
While the overall shape of this grand tourer remains unchanged, the front fascia now incorporates wider, more pronounced air intakes to channel more air into the radiator system.
On the rear fenders, new, taller air scoops sit on the shoulders to enable greater airflow into the 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine.
Alongside new colour options such as Mantis Green, Tanzanite Blue and Ice White, the GTS can be had in an exclusive colour called Lava Grey. It incorporates a shimmering red fleck that catches the light to create a distinctive effect.
There are two alloy wheel designs to choose from, both of which can be fitted with titanium bolts said to be 35% lighter than standard bolts. The wheels are wrapped in Pirelli P Zero rubbers developed specifically for the GTS.
As for the interior, customers can now opt for Softgrain Aniline leather upholstery with double piping and contrast stitching.
In addition to the visual upgrades, McLaren has reduced the weight of the GTS through the use of composite roof and upper structure at the rear, both made of carbon fibre. This makes the car 10 kg lighter, with a kerb weight of 1,520 kg.
With an output of 635 PS, which is 15 PS higher than its predecessor, and 630 Nm of torque, the GTS only takes 3.2 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h and 8.9 seconds to reach a speed of 200 km/h. The maximum speed is 326 km/h.
Higher output does not necessiate that practicality has to be compromised. In fact, the GTS is more practical than the model it replaces as the lift system can now raise or lower the nose in only four seconds – more than twice as fast as before.
Additionally, the GTS has a boot space of 420 litres accessible via a front-hinged, electrically-operated glass tailgate. It also has a 150-litre storage space within the nose, giving it a total cargo space of 570 litres.
The electro-hydraulic steering system has also been retuned to deliver a more accurate level of feedback. The steering’s level of assistance is also increased at low speeds for easier low-speed manoeuvres.
A year ago, BYD marked its entry into the Malaysian electric vehicle market with the launch of the BYD Atto 3.
In commemoration of this anniversary, Sime Darby Motors recently launched the Atto 3 Anniversary Limited Edition, which sets itself apart from the standard version with a blacked-out bodykit.
The latest offering is based on the Extended Range variant and is limited to only 500 units. Customers can choose from a selection of two exterior colours, namely Boulder Grey and Ski White.
Regardless of the chosen colour, the Atto 3 Anniversary Limited Edition is fitted a front bumper lip, front spoiler, front bumper panels, rear spoiler, and rear diffuser.
Additionally, the window frame, side mirror housings, and C-pillar panels are painted black to give the EV a more aggressive look.
There are no powertrain upgrades, meaning like the variant it is based on, the limited edition Atto 3 features an electric motor on the front axle generating 204 PS and 310 Nm. This enables it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds.
This variant is equipped with a 60.48 kWh battery that offers a driving range of up to 480 km on a full charge. Charging from 0-80% takes approximately 45 minutes with a fast DC 80 kW charger.
The selling price of the Atto 3 Anniversary Limited Edition starts at RM173,800, making it RM6,000 dearer than the standard Atto 3 Extended Range.
The government has agreed to provide toll-free highways across Malaysia for two days in conjunction with the Christmas celebration on December 25.
Deputy Minister of Works, Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan, stated that the toll exemption will be effective on December 23 and 26, 2023, for all types of vehicles.
“The decision was made after a cabinet meeting on December 6 in conjunction with this year’s Christmas celebration.
The exemption is granted for all types of vehicles on all highways within the country, except for two toll plazas at the national border, namely the Bangunan Sultan Iskandar Toll Plaza and the Tanjung Kupang Toll Plaza,” he explained in a press conference today.
THE Toyota Crown Sport, which is one of the four models in the Crown lineup, is now available with a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain in its home market, where it is priced from 7.65 million yen (RM248,030).
Similar to the hybrid version, the aforementioned powertrain employs the A25A-FXS 2.5-litre Dynamic Force engine, but in this version, the engine is assisted by a pair of electric motors.
On its own, the engine develops 177 PS and 219 Nm of torque, while the front and rear electric motors generate 182 PS/270 Nm and 54 PS/121 Nm, respectively.
The ICE-electric motor combo provides the Crown Sport PHEV with an E-Four all-wheel drive system and a healthy total system output of 306 PS.
With a 51-Ah lithium-ion battery, the SUV is capable of traveling up to 90 km without using a drop of fuel.
Not only that, it is also said to offer a fuel consumption rate of about 20.3 km/l and with a 55-litre fuel tank, it boasts a total cruising range of more than 1,200 km on a full tank.
According to Toyota, the Crown Sport PHEV supports both standard and rapid charging, with the latter enabling a charge to 80% power in 38 minutes.
The exterior may appear to be unchanged from the hybrid version, but underneath the gorgeous sheetmetal lies an additional braces to the floor tunnel to ensure an optimal balance of body rigidity.
Furthermore, the damping characteristics of the Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system have been retuned for smoother and more stable ride.
The Crown Sport PHEV comes standard with 21-inch aluminum rims, 20-inch ventilated disc brakes with red calipers on all four corners, black and red interior colour scheme, paddle shifters and sports seats.
Other features include the Vehicle to Home (V2H) that can provide enough electricity for about 6.5 days of use in emergency situations, and My Room Mode, which allows users to enjoy air conditioning and audio systems from an external power source.
FOLLOWING the announcement by Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd. (DMC) today regarding the suspension of its models due to “procedural irregularities,” Perodua has also issued a response in relation to the independent audit committee report.
The “procedural irregularities” were conducted by DMC during vehicle safety tests on several original equipment manufacturers (OEM), which were announced early this morning.
The independent audit committee report, as announced by DMC, stated: “The inspection and tests confirm that all 174 irregularities identified by the independent audit committee meet the standards set by laws and regulations.”
Perodua is conducting a detailed assessment of the issue and is in discussions with the Malaysian authorities regarding the impact of these developments on its vehicles.
On April 28, 2023, DMC announced the occurrence of “procedural irregularities” during safety tests on vehicles in Japan. Following this announcement, DMC established an independent audit committee comprising legal and technical personnel.
“We apologize to our valued customers and the public for the concerns arising from this announcement,” stated today’s release by Perodua.
“Our intention is to provide assurance to our valued customers.
“We will share the results of these discussions with all our customers in the near future.”
The “Asian Compact Sedan Design Challenge 2023” (ACSDC 2023) car design competition, which was held for the first time in Malaysia, has seen 93 entries from seven countries for its inaugural program. ACSDC 2023 is a sedan car design competition open to professional designers and design students in Asia, jointly organized by Perodua and the Malaysian Institute of Design (MRM).
“The number of entries from other countries in Asia is encouraging as the exposure to the Perodua and MRM brands outside of Malaysia is significant,” said Dato’ Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad, President and Chief Executive Officer of Perodua. A total of 93 entries were received from Indonesia, Japan, the Philippines, Singapore, Iran, Japan, India, and Malaysia.
For the professional category, Kenny Chan from Malaysia was crowned the champion of the ACSDC 2023 competition with his concept car “Payung.” According to the head judge, Muhamad Zamuren Musa, the dynamic car design with a ‘fastback’ silhouette and a strong and stable vehicle body character makes the car more balanced. Furthermore, distinct details and creative style elements were other factors that led to the selection of this car as the best among all participants.
Meanwhile, Philip Samuel Tandio from Indonesia emerged as the runner-up with the “Out Ride” concept, while Muhammad Izhar Che Shukarno took third place with the “Fastback” concept.
In the student design category, Bryan Teh Yea Quan from Asia Pacific University (APU), Malaysia, was named the champion for his unique interpretation of a sporty sedan.
Alfred Han Wen Hao from Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK), Malaysia, was the runner-up, and Muhammad Amin Othman from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Malaysia, secured third place.
“For Perodua, this competition provides an insight into sedans because the definition and perception of this vehicle type differ from one country to another. Malaysians see it as a practical vehicle, while other countries may view it more as a status symbol. By organizing this competition, we can see where we can combine both ideas into one,” said Dato’ Sri Zainal.
“This competition not only encourages designers to test their talent but also exposes them to different design philosophies from other countries around the world,” said MRM Director, Husaini Ismail.
Malaysia’s Leading Automotive News | ENGEAR ENGLISH
