This is Kia’s latest electric model, the Kia EV4, the fifth model in the Kia “EV” series, following the EV3, EV5, EV9, and EV6 models.
Built on the E-GMP platform and featuring a design approach similar to its siblings, the Kia EV4 will be available in both hatchback and sedan (fastback) versions.
Both hatchback and sedan models share the same front design, including the EV Tiger Face, headlight units, and LED daytime running lights at the end of the bumper, along with protective plastic cladding on the wheel arches.
The key distinguishing factor between the two models is undoubtedly the design at the rear.
For the sedan version, the Kia EV4 showcases a ‘long tail’ design concept inspired by iconic supercars, followed by a more streamlined roofline towards the back and vertical taillight units.
In contrast, the hatchback version features a more conventional and dramatic light structure, a smaller rear window, and is topped off with a roof spoiler.
Buyers will also have the opportunity to purchase the Kia EV4 in the GT-Line variant, which offers 19-inch wheels, along with sportier front and rear bumpers.
More details, including the cabin design, will be revealed ahead of the official global launch at the end of this month.
Perodua is set to showcase something special at the Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (KLIMS) taking place this week.
Last weekend, Perodua began airing a teaser video for its electric concept model, EMO-II (Electric Mobility Online).
The 30-second video highlights the sporty design elements intended for the EMO-II.
Unique features include a glowing Perodua logo, a full-width front and rear LED light bar, and an aggressive bumper design.
Additionally, the rear of the EMO-II features a large diffuser component, along with a single fog light positioned in the center of the bumper.
According to previously revealed specifications, the Perodua EMO-II is powered by a single front-wheel-drive electric motor generating 68 PS/220 Nm, with a range of up to 450 km on a full charge.
The development of the EMO-II EV prototype was undertaken in collaboration with three local universities: UNITEN, UniKL, and UPM.
Meanwhile, the development of the powertrain technology was executed with a company based in Australia, as there are currently no similar EV models produced by Toyota or Daihatsu at this scale.
Perodua is expected to launch its first electric vehicle (EV) by the end of 2025.
FINALLY, after four years in the market, the Mazda3 has received a facelift and update. It’s not to say that it necessarily needed a facelift because the Mazda3 still looks beautiful and fresh, but it might need an update in terms of specifications and features.
The updated Mazda3 for 2023 is offered in four variants for the Malaysian market as follows:
Mazda3 2.0 High Sedan – RM156,059
Mazda3 2.0 High Plus Sedan – RM166,059
Mazda3 2.0 High Plus Liftback – RM166,059
Mazda3 2.0 Ignite Edition Liftback – RM175,059
As you can see above, all variants now come with only a 2.0-liter engine for the sedan and Liftback (hatchback), meaning the 1.5-liter engine has been dropped. The 2.0 SkyActiv-G engine is featured in all models, with an output of 162hp and 213Nm torque.
This engine is paired with a 6-speed SkyActiv-Drive gearbox with manual mode. Fuel efficiency figures are up to 6.2L/100km for the sedan model, while it is 6.3L/100km for the hatchback.
For exterior features, all variants receive LED headlights, but LED DRLs are only available for the top three variants, with the High sedan model featuring LED fog lights. Other features are similar, such as LED fog lamps, auto-folding side mirrors, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and front and rear parking sensors.
The High Sedan comes with 16-inch wheels with 205/60 tires, while the three higher variants are equipped with 18-inch wheels wrapped in 215/45 tires.
Interior features for all models include leather seats with 10-way adjustment for the driver, electronic parking brake, 7-inch instrument display, color head-up display (HUD), and dual-zone air conditioning.
The infotainment system consists of a 10.25-inch central display, Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity, eight speakers, and two USB Type-C ports. A reverse camera is also standard, but the top variant, Mazda3 2.0 Ignite Edition hatchback, gets an additional 360-degree camera.
For safety systems, all variants come with standard features such as ABS, EBD, Dynamic Stability Control, Emergency Stop Signal, Hill Launch Assist, and ISOFIX. However, only the top three variants are equipped with advanced assistance systems such as adaptive headlights, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning System, Lane-Keep Assist System, Driver Attention Alert, Smart Brake Support, and Mazda Radar Cruise Control.
All 2023 Mazda3 variants are fully imported, which is why their prices are higher compared to models like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. What is your opinion, is it worthwhile to choose the Mazda3?
For us, this model always looks and feels more premium than its competitors, and although it looks ‘fresh’ in the market, it is indeed deserving of an update in features.
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