Similar to Ferry Porsche 75 years ago who wanted to build his dream sports car, Krithin Paul Pereira also has a dream.
An artist, designer, and engineer, Krithin also has a deep interest in sports cars. Despite having Cerebral Palsy, he overcomes challenges every day and expresses his passion through unique artistic works.
After making an appearance during the launch of the Porsche Cayenne CKD a few months ago, Krithin is now collaborating with Porsche Malaysia for a special project. He painted the Cayenne on a T-shirt to raise funds for Amirs Therapy Gym – where Krithin receives treatment.
Porsche Malaysia first met Krithin at the opening of the Porsche Club Malaysia office in Sungai Besi. Later, Krithin was invited by Porsche Malaysia to several important events, including the CKD Cayenne assembly plant in Kulim, Kedah, which is also the first Cayenne factory outside Europe.
Krithin’s work also attracted the attention and recognition of Porsche AG, and he received an invitation to visit the company’s factory in Stuttgart. Krithin had the opportunity to interact with designers and experience the sensation of driving the 911 GT3 on the Hockenheimring circuit.
“I would like to thank Porsche Malaysia for this opportunity. Amirs Therapy Gym holds a special place in my heart, where they help me build my physical and mental strength,” said Krithin.
“Despite facing various challenges in life, I always tell myself that I can do it because I am a limitless dreamer. And I also want to help others achieve their dreams in life,” he added.
Christopher Hunter, CEO of Sime Darby Auto Performance, representing Porsche Malaysia, said: “Since I met Krithin, he has inspired us in many ways. We gave him the opportunity to be with us for the launch of the Cayenne in Malaysia and now we are excited to continue this journey to inspire others as well,” said Christopher.
Mercedes’ entry-level SUV, the GLA200, has been given a facelift by Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM). It features enhancements in terms of appearance, equipment, and technology within the cabin.
The exterior of the Mercedes GLA200 now showcases a new grille with a large logo in the center, black accents, and aerodynamic 18-inch five-spoke alloy wheels. This compact SUV also receives LED High-Performance headlights with Adaptive Highbeam.
Its interior is adorned with a Star Pattern finish for an attractive contrast. The GLA200 2024 is also equipped with dual 10.25-inch screens, Artico leather seats, a multifunction sports steering wheel, and various ways to fold the rear seats to enhance practicality.
The MBUX (Mercedes Benz User Experience) system in this GLA is the latest generation, featuring Navigation Assistance, 64-color ambient lighting, and connectivity with Apple Carplay and Android Auto. The GLA200 also comes with five USB-C charging sockets with illumination.
Safety features have also been enhanced. The GLA200 now comes with Blind Spot Assist, Exit Warning Assist, Active Brake Assist, and a Parking Package along with the Mirror Package. Other technologies in this SUV include Keyless-Go, Handsfree Access, Tirefit, and the Easy-Pack power tailgate.
The Mercedes GLA200 is powered by a 1.3-liter engine with an output of 163hp and 250Nm of torque. This engine is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (7G-DCT), enabling this front-wheel-drive SUV to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.9 seconds.
Dynamic Select is also standard, offering Sport, Comfort, and Eco modes. These settings will adjust the engine response, transmission, suspension, and steering.
The 2024 Mercedes GLA200 is a CKD (Completely Knocked Down) model, offered at a price of RM258,888 (on-the-road without insurance). Buyers can also opt for the new Spectral Blue color for this SUV.
The premium SUV market will once again be enlivened by the presence of the all-new Volkswagen Touareg in the Malaysian market.
This was confirmed by Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) through their social media platform, and certainly, the registration of interest (ROI) has also been opened.
Based on the ROI page, the 2024 Touareg will be offered in an R-Line variant, which brings a sportier image compared to the Elegance.
The 2024 Volkswagen Touareg is the third generation launched globally in mid-2023. This SUV will be powered by a 3.0-liter V6 TSI engine with 335hp and 450Nm of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox and 4Motion all-wheel drive.
Standard features include LED matrix IQ.Light headlights, air suspension with automatic adjustment, a 730-watt Dynaudio Consequence power audio system, and the IQ.Drive driver assistance system with night vision. The exterior features a new grille, LED headlights with L-shaped DRLs, and a light bar at the front and rear.
As of now, there is no expected price, but according to information from our sources in Pekan, this SUV will be assembled as a CKD (Completely Knocked Down) unit. If true, it will be the first generation of the Touareg to be assembled in the country.
Are there any enthusiasts eagerly awaiting this new generation of the Volkswagen Touareg?
The government is now in the early stages of reviewing and investigating the possibility of establishing a “lemon law,” said Minister of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs, Armizan Mohd Ali.
Photo: Malay Mail
Speaking to FMT, Armizan stated that Malaysia is actively addressing consumer protection issues related to damaged vehicles and analyzing international practices before adapting them for local use.
He commented on the demand by the Penang Consumers Association (CAP) for the introduction of a “lemon law,” which is a legal remedy for consumers who purchase faulty vehicles, whether new or old, that fail to meet specific quality and performance criteria within a specific period.
The United States, Singapore, South Korea, China, and the Philippines are among the countries that implement such laws.
However, Armizan mentioned that the Consumer Protection Act 1999, which is enforced in Malaysia, also protects consumers from faulty vehicles.
“The Act protects consumers in several ways related to faulty vehicles, even though it is not specifically a ‘lemon law’ and does not offer specific remedies such as repurchasing a car that cannot be repaired. It provides various provisions that can be used to address faulty vehicle issues.”
Recently, there have been two reports of newly purchased vehicles breaking down, which have been widely shared on social media.
A clerk, S Nagakanni, reported that her new Perodua Bezza broke down eight hours after purchase, and she had to continue paying the monthly loan of RM537, even though the car was stranded at the service center.
Noriya Mamat from Terengganu also stated that her newly purchased Honda HR-V was stranded at the service center for months after sending it for servicing one month after the purchase upon reaching a mileage of 1,000km. She mentioned that she had to make monthly payments of RM1,500 for a car that she couldn’t drive at all.
THE Malaysia Automotive Association (MAA) has reported that the total industry volume (TIV) of the Malaysian automotive industry rose to a record high of 799,731 units in 2023, representing an 11% increase from the 721,177 units recorded in 2022.
According to MAA President Mohd Shamsor Mohd Zain, the increase was primarily driven by the passenger cars sub-segment, following a resilient domestic economy and stable socio-political environment.
He further added that the growth was also propelled by tax incentives, new launches including competitively priced electric vehicles, and improved industry supply chain environment.
“The industry’s sales growth last year marked the second annual gain since the downturn in 2020-2021 as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. It was also the second consecutive year the TIV exceeded the 700,000-unit mark,” he said.
The KTM 890 SMT has officially entered the market at a retail price of RM101,800. The introduction of this model was anticipated, with reports of the opening of reservations for eight units being issued previously.
The KTM 890 SMT is powered by an 889cc LC8c twin-cylinder engine, similar to the one found in the 890 Adventure, but this model boasts more power with 105hp and 100Nm of torque.
Although the 890 SMT shares the same platform as the 890 Adventure, it features a different body panel to enhance aerodynamics. As usual, the suspension package consists of adjustable WP APEX front and rear suspension paired with 17-inch wheels.
Additional electronic features offered include:
Cornering Motorcycle Traction Control
5-inch anti-glare TFT meter panel
Motor Slip Regulation (MSR)
Additionally, as part of the early purchase promotion for the KTM 890 SMT, additional features such as Quickshifter+ and Cruise Control will be provided for free.
JAECOO Malaysia today unveiled their first SUV bet for Malaysia, the Jaecoo J7. For those who don’t know, Jaecoo is a brand under Chery, and this SUV is a segment-C model positioned as a premium off-road vehicle.
From several perspectives, the Jaecoo J7 indeed looks more premium compared to its competitors such as the Mazda CX-5 and Honda CR-V. The Jaecoo J7 is expected to be officially launched around the second quarter of 2024.
The J7 is powered by a 1.6-liter turbo petrol engine with an output of 197hp and 290Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. There are two variant options: front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive (AWD).
The Jaecoo J7 has a ground clearance of 200mm with the ability to wade through water up to a depth of 600mm. It is also capable of towing up to 1,300kg, and its roof rack can accommodate up to 75kg.
Standard features of the Jaecoo J7 include layered LED headlights, LED DRLs, 19-inch Aurora rims, leather-wrapped seats, 64-color ambient lighting, seven driving modes, and a 50W wireless charger.
Other features include a head-up display, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14.8-inch infotainment system, seats with cooling function, dual-zone air conditioning, and a panoramic sunroof.
Safety features are also quite comprehensive, such as Front Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Emergency Lane Keeping, Curve Speed Assistance, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Detection, Adaptive Cruise Control, Traffic Jam Assist, and Parking Assistance.
The price has not been announced yet, but according to Jaecoo, the price of this SUV will be around that of the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro, which is priced at RM159,800. Can it compete with existing players in the Malaysian market?
Oh yes, the Jaecoo J7 will also be locally assembled (CKD) from the beginning. Interesting?
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.
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
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.
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.
After 11 days and 3,197km, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 convoy has finally succeeded in completing their zero-emission journey across the ASEAN region.
They commenced their expedition in Singapore, then traversed through Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, and concluded in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on November 30, 2023.
This expedition marks the most extensive cross-country tour by electric vehicles (EVs) within ASEAN. Furthermore, the total distance of 3,197km exceeded the original estimate by 446km.
The purpose of this journey was to showcase the Ioniq 5’s capabilities for long-distance travel and its environmentally friendly nature, particularly in a region where the capabilities of EVs are still a matter of skepticism.
Additionally, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 demonstrated cost savings, with an average expenditure of only USD116 (RM537.60) for the entire journey. This represents approximately half the typical fuel expenses for a conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle.
Youngtack Lee, President of Hyundai Motor ASEAN, stated, “Our dedication to making EVs more accessible as a clean transportation solution has successfully propelled us forward.
“With the success of the Ioniq 5 expedition, we are excited to further accelerate our innovations in developing EV infrastructure and ecosystems in this region. While this journey may have concluded, the excitement for electrification has only just begun,” he added.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 convoy consisted of five vehicles, two of which were deployed in Indonesia and the remaining three in Singapore.
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.
THE 19th Malaysia Car of the Year (MCOTY) recently concluded, and the prestigious title of Overall Car of the Year was awarded to the Honda Civic e:HEV RS Hybrid.
The annual program which serves as a platform for automotive enthusiasts and experts to recognize and celebrate the best new cars in Malaysia, unanimously picked the Honda Civic e:HEV RS Hybrid for its technology which eliminates power-robbing gearboxes, whether CVT or hydraulic, and for providing the best energy regeneration of all current hybrids in Malaysia.
With 121 new cars nominated for this year’s award, the competition was fierce and represented a diverse range of vehicles. The judging panel consisted of 10 esteemed automotive journalists and two professionals from the legal and medical fields.
These judges evaluated the cars based on several criteria, including design, technology, safety, and value for money. As a result of their analysis, the 121 nominated cars were divided into seven main categories, with 13 winners emerging as the best in their respective segments.
One interesting aspect of the MCOTY program is the People’s Choice award, which is determined through online polling using smartphone to implement one person one vote from a list of 25 cars nominated by the judges and a team from the Malaysia Automotive Robotics IoT Institute.
This year, the Perodua Axia E took home the People’s Choice award in the mass market category, while the BMW iX1 xDrive30 M Sport won the hearts of the public in the premium market. Interesting to see that Malaysians selected an EV in the premium market segment.
In addition to the winners, the judges also made Honourable Mentions of three outstanding cars that defied convention.
The Ford Ranger Raptor 3.0 V6 petrol twin turbo was acknowledged for its outstanding performance, being described as a supercar in pick-up guise.
The Perodua Axia 1.0 E received recognition for its affordability, with its price tag of RM22,000 making it one of the best value-for-money cars in the world. Despite criticism regarding its safety standards, the judges argued that the Axia E is still much safer than motorcycles.
Third, the Chery Omoda 5 was commended for its warranty, as it was launched with an unprecedented 1 million km warranty for the first 3,000 buyers. This imaginative brand-building exercise caught the attention of the judging panel.
Winners of the 19th Malaysia Car of the Year Awards:
A) Sedan and Hatchback:
Below: RM110,000: Toyota Vios 1.5G
RM111,000 to RM249,000: Honda Civic e:HEV RS Hybrid
Above RM250,000: Mercedes-Benz C300 AMG Line
THIS is hot news, ladies and gentlemen, because the Jaecoo brand has arrived in Malaysia. In fact, two units of the Jaecoo J7 AWD are now in the country for road testing and standardization.
For those who are not aware, Jaecoo is one of the brands under the Chery umbrella, like Omoda. We also made a brief report and introduction about Jaecoo while in China a few months ago.
Jaecoo Malaysia is currently actively conducting exclusive previews for authorized distributors and potential investors ahead of the showroom opening.
It will be introduced to the Malaysian market next year. In addition, the official Facebook page of Jaecoo Malaysia has also been established, so you can visit it for any information and updates from the brand.
The official website is expected to be completed by January 2024. In the meantime, you can obtain further information on Jaecoo’s global website.
The Jaecoo J7 is a five-seater C-segment model, with a length of 4,500mm. It will be in the same segment as models such as the Mazda CX-5 and Honda CR-V.
Unlike the units we saw in Wuhu, China, which were front-wheel-drive models, the units that have arrived in Malaysia are both AWD models.
There are no engine details yet, but according to Jaecoo’s official website, the J7 AWD model is powered by a 1.6-liter turbo engine with 194hp and 290Nm of torque, and power is transmitted to all wheels through a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
The 0-100km/h performance is in 8 seconds, while the fuel efficiency is about 7.48L/100km. Other features of the Jaecoo J7 include LED headlights, a 14.8-inch vertical infotainment screen, a panoramic sunroof, Sony audio system, 10 airbags, and ADAS Level 2.5+ functions.
What is your opinion on the Jaecoo J7 and this brand in general? Excited for its launch?
WHAT comes to mind when thinking about driving during festive seasons or school holidays? Traffic congestion and higher accident rates, right? This is due to the increased number of vehicles on the road as many people have plans for vacations with family or friends.
The issue is that most of the congestion or traffic jams and accidents should not occur if our drivers are more disciplined and use common sense while driving, rather than solely relying on instinct. So this time, we would like to share six (6) ‘driving hacks’ that can be adopted to reduce the risk of congestion and road accident risks during the holiday season.
It is important to remember that these sort of ‘hacks’ are not too strange or new, but rather common things that we all already know and have learned. We will simply explain in more depth why practicing them will reduce congestion and the risk of accidents.
1. Maintain a distance from the car ahead
Just another common advice, isn’t it? Before you yawn from drowsiness, let us explain. Do you feel great because you’ve managed to aggressively squeeze in front of the car ahead?
Actually, this aggressive tailgating practice is not the smartest to adopt. Even if you ask professional racers, they do not drive closely on the road.
This is because by driving too close, you are likely to brake suddenly and repeatedly, triggering a domino effect for traffic flow, especially on highways.
Have you ever stopped in the rightmost lane of a four-lane highway? And when you move, you see that nothing is happening? Yes, this is the result of the “great” guy who tailgated 25 cars in front.
2. Avoid driving too slowly in the middle lane
“Hey, why can’t I drive slowly? Where are you in such a hurry to go?” Well, you can drive slowly, no one will be angry, but in the left lane, right? Not the middle lane.
For example, if there are three lanes on the highway, there should be THREE different speeds. But when you drive slowly in the middle lane, at the same speed as the left lane, there are only two different speeds on that highway. This causes unnecessary congestion.
What’s the point of building a three-lane highway if it operates the same as two lanes, right?
Even worse if it’s a four-lane highway, but three lanes with the same speed, only the right lane is a little faster. The reason? The slow driving gang in the middle lane. Congratulations.
3. Don’t be ashamed to sit on the left
This is a continuation of the previous ‘lifehack’, if we feel like driving slowly, chill out, use the left signal, and switch to the left lane. “Isn’t the left lane just for buses and trucks?” Heavy vehicles are prohibited from being in the rightmost lane, but for us ordinary passenger car drivers, it’s no problem to be in the left lane. There’s a difference.
If you feel like driving slowly, want to chat vigorously with the passengers, or ask someone at home to pass you snacks, this is the lane for that. Not the middle lane.
4. Accelerate in the merging lane BEFORE entering the main lanes
This is also an important lifehack. Did you know that the entrance merging lane to the highway is the most underused? Many are in a rush to get to the right lane but are still crawling, causing the cars in the main lane to brake for them.
As a result, another domino effect. You can see examples on the main highway during peak hours or the start of holidays. Traffic congestion near the merging lanes, then flowing smoothly again. Cars from the merging lane rush to enter the right lane even though the lane is still long. Any prizes for who gets to the right lane first?
Ideally, accelerate, signal right, and merge at the same speed. Not signal, merge casually, and then speed up. It’s tiring to teach one by one…
5. Looking far ahead
This ‘lifehack’ is actually one of the defensive driving techniques. Use whatever we can to see far ahead. Perhaps we can look ahead through the front car mirror, or maintain our distance. When we are too close to the front car, it’s more difficult for us to see what’s ahead of it.
For example, we can be prepared to slow down before the car in front hits the brakes. This is crucial for smooth traffic flow. Imagine if all drivers maintained distance, looked far ahead, and avoided sudden braking, surely the traffic flow would be smooth even with many cars.
6. Matching speed with traffic flow
Finally, the key to smooth driving is to drive at a speed that matches the traffic flow. Not too fast and not too slow. Driving too fast in heavy traffic, other drivers will think you’re possessed, and believe me, they’re all cursing you. If it’s an emergency, that’s a different story.
But driving too slowly is also dangerous because other cars have to change lanes a lot to “avoid” you. Like a stone rolling in a fast-flowing drain. Don’t be in your own world, driving as you please, “as long as you don’t exceed the speed limit,” it said. Follow the traffic flow, be aware of the surroundings.
How about the six driving ‘lifehacks’ we shared? If you’re not sure, it’s okay. Take a deep breath, and reconsider while driving during the holiday season. And try to observe the causes of congestion that occur. Drive safely!
AS the Mazda CX-30 began making its way into the Malaysian market towards the end of 2019, the majority of us in the media deeply admired it. Not only does it look beautiful and sleek with curves and lines reminiscent of Italian SUVs, the CX-30 is also a joy to drive.
If you’re a driving enthusiast, the CX-30 will quickly win you over. However, the pricing of the CX-30 at that time was quite steep, causing concern for many potential buyers. This resulted in somewhat lackluster sales.
However, last year, Mazda Malaysia introduced a locally assembled CKD (completely knocked down) variant for this compact B-segment SUV, making its pricing more appealing. The CX-30 2.0G starts at RM131,000 and goes up to the 2.0G High+ Premium at RM159,000. This represents a discount of approximately RM13,000 compared to the 2019 2.0G model.
However, for this CKD version, all four variants now use only a 2.0-liter petrol engine, with no more option for the 1.8-liter diesel SkyActive-D as before, which used to cost over RM170,000.
Recently, we test drove the high-end mid-range variant, the CX-30 2.0G High+, priced at RM149,000. Is it worth it compared to models like the Honda HR-V and Toyota Corolla Cross? And who is the CX-30 for?
One class higher
Upon closer inspection, the Mazda CX-30 seems to occupy a class above other models in its segment. For example, the chrome strip under the front grille that extends to the left and right front lights is actually expensive to manufacture because it’s a large piece of thin chrome.
Then, the body panels from the fender, doors, to the rear of the car lack clear lines; instead, they curve and play with light in a captivating manner. It’s contoured and gives the CX-30 the image of a creature, not just a machine or object.
Such organic surfaces require a higher level of quality care and attention compared to conventional lines. The rear design is also quite elegant and sporty, resembling the more expensive Italian SUVs, like the Alfa Romeo Stelvio.
Inside, you’ll notice that the gas pedal in the CX-30 is an organ type, i.e., a hinged type on the floor. This automatically makes this SUV feel more expensive compared to models that use hanging pedals.
The same goes for the rpm and speedometer display. Only the rpm display is physical, while the speedometer is actually digital. However, Mazda has successfully made both of these look very similar. When you turn off the engine, you realize that the speedometer is a screen.
These are things we can’t see in brochures or specifications. So, it’s normal for us to have difficulty justifying the higher price of the Mazda CX-30. But after a test drive or spending a few days with it, then we can understand.
Sports car ‘compromises’
Beneath the front hood of the Mazda CX-30 lies a 2.0-liter SkyActiv-G naturally-aspirated petrol engine, capable of generating 162hp and 213Nm of torque. Although these figures may seem ordinary and not overly impressive, Mazda teaches us that sporty doesn’t solely mean high power output. Yes, the Mazda CX-30 is among the most sporty SUVs in its class, if not the sportiest.
Numbers aren’t everything when it comes to being sporty; it’s the way this SkyActiv engine revs up, responds, and sounds that gives you the feeling of being closely connected to the car.
From the ultra-fast response when you touch the gas pedal, to the smooth rise of the rpm needle to the 6,800rpm redline in manual mode, the sporty nature of the Mazda CX-30 shines through. The 6-speed SkyActiv-Drive gearbox used is a real 6-speed, not a virtual speed from a CVT like most of its competitors (except for the X50, which uses dual-clutch).
This means that the sensation of gear shifting is ‘real’ and genuine, not simulated. Shifting doesn’t need to be overly quick; what’s important is the adequate response, making you feel closely connected and familiar with this CX-30 powertrain.
As the revs approach the redline, your heartbeat quickens, accompanied by a pleasant sound at high revs, and when upshifting, your heartbeat subsides slightly, only to rise again when accelerating in the next gear.
The downshift also feels like a true sports car. Whether in automatic or manual mode, you can feel the clutch disengaging, the engine blipping for rev matching, and the clutch reengaging smoothly, yet sportily.
Don’t believe that output isn’t the determinant of a sporty feel? Well, consider the Lotus Elise with 217hp from a supercharged 1.8-liter engine, compared to the 255hp in the Mercedes C300 with a 2.0-liter turbo engine. Which one is more sporty?
So, this underscores the point that the ‘way’ an engine delivers its power or its character is more important than the numbers that we can just Google.
However, when driving a sporty vehicle, you might make some sacrifices in terms of space and practicality. In the case of the Mazda CX-30, I have to be honest and say that it’s not the most spacious in its segment. Adding to the issue is the black-brown color scheme in the cabin, which doesn’t help in this regard.
The seating is indeed comfortable and supportive, but when I had a stout passenger seated next to me and a rather tall one at the back, the cabin felt a bit tight. And if you sit in a low driving position, it’s somewhat difficult to see the left side and the rear corner of the car.
The dashboard panel and all switches and buttons are easily accessible, which is great as it gives us a sense of confidence and the feeling that the car is focused on the driver.
Not for everyone
Simply put, the Mazda CX-30 is not for everyone. It offers a delightful driving experience, suits dedicated and sporty drivers, but it may not be the best fit for most people.
If you’ve previously driven the Mazda MX-5 when you were single, the CX-30 is highly suitable for building a small family before transitioning to a larger vehicle when you have more than three children.
For the writer, I truly enjoy driving the Mazda CX-30 because its size is ideal for daily use, in addition to its responsive aspect and the precise driving feel offered by the Jinba Ittai concept. The CX-30’s design remains elegant and evergreen even as it approaches four years old, and Mazda has yet to provide any visual updates, which isn’t really necessary.
The CX-30 still looks fresh and new in the market. To answer the earlier question, the Mazda CX-30 may not appear worthwhile when compared to regular cars in its segment, but you will see better value when compared to models such as the MINI Countryman, Lexus UX, or Mercedes A-Class hatchback.
BMW is one of the manufacturers in Malaysia that offers a wide range of electric vehicle (EV) models, including the i4, i7, iX1, iX3, and iX. This time, Engear was given the opportunity by BMW Malaysia to spend the weekend with the iX3.
There is a secret, although the iX3 is a relatively new, futuristic, and state-of-the-art EV model, it possesses the characteristics of a traditional BMW. Why? Because it is a true rear-wheel-drive vehicle.
Yes, the BMW M3 now has all-wheel drive with the xDrive system, but the iX3, an EV SUV, is rear-wheel drive. Truly, it’s a strange world we live in now.
RWD Configuration
The BMW iX3 has a rear-wheel-drive configuration because it is powered by a single electric motor installed on the rear axle, with an output of 282hp and 400Nm of torque. This motor draws power from a 73.8kWh battery that gives the iX3 a driving range of up to 453km.
We insist on talking about RWD; why is it so important? Perhaps most drivers don’t care. It’s an interesting fact because when the front tires don’t need to deliver power and only bear the responsibility of steering, it results in a very precise and direct steering feel.
So, does this mean the car is fast? Not necessarily. It just means that the iX3 has the “feel” or sensation of a true sports car; 100% power at the rear tires, 100% steering by the front tires. When was the last time you drove a car like this?
But to say this BMW iX3 is slow, not quite. The performance is still solid. Despite weighing 2,200kg, it’s still capable of accelerating to 100km/h in 6.8 seconds, faster than most cars. The maximum speed is capped at “only” 180km/h, as is common with EVs.
However, it’s true that throughout the writer’s experience driving the BMW iX3, handling in corners was quite balanced and satisfying. Its weight is centered, the steering provides plenty of feedback, and the 400Nm of torque is accessible most of the time.
Driving at night is accompanied by BMW Laser Light, which not only looks sophisticated but also provides strong visibility for the driver. Indirectly, this also adds to the safety aspect.
Luxurious and practical for everyday use
The BMW iX3 we drove is an M Sport Impressive variant, so it gets a sporty body kit despite the presence of blue EV elements.
The blue elements can be seen on the closed grille, air intakes on the front bumper, and rear diffuser. However, the sporty elements dominate the exterior design of this iX3 M Sport, such as the 20-inch rims, aggressive side bumpers, and prominent rear diffuser design, in addition to the roof spoiler.
The side profile of the BMW iX3 is still classic SUV, and resembles the X3, signaling its familial aspect with other models. It should also be noted that the lower floor of this iX3 is nearly flat like a sports car, and it works in conjunction with the rear diffuser.
Only the overall cabin area feels ordinary and not too special. Its dashboard displays a design that we are already familiar with, not bad, just perhaps a bit dated.
However, if you diligently delve into its central screen, there is a lot of exclusive content for the electric model. This includes power distribution menus, regenerative mode, and charging planning.
The writer quite likes the 464-watt Harman Kardon audio system in this iX3, which can make you enjoy driving this car because it can play your favorite songs with a very pleasant sound. Even if your spouse asks you to buy a packet of sugar, you will be eager to drive the BMW iX3 even for short distances.
Space is not an issue for the iX3, it is quite spacious with sufficient leg and headroom for five adults.
Travel data
Well, now we shouldn’t forget the fact that the BMW iX3 is an EV, so how about its performance and daily practicality? Is 453km sufficient? In all honesty, when we got the car, its battery was at 95 percent with only 313km of driving range. Oh dear! How did that happen?
It should be noted that the EV car’s range reading is calculated based on the previous driving behavior. Perhaps the previous driver of the iX3 didn’t hold back, enjoying the 400Nm torque it offers.
From the writer’s experience, despite the displayed range being 313km, the writer managed to drive over 350km with 25km of range left when returning the iX3. How so? The writer did a lot of city driving at speeds below 120km/h, with frequent stop-and-go situations.
So, the car’s 2.2-ton weight gave momentum for the regenerative system to replenish energy back into the battery every time the writer slowed down. It can be said that in 90 percent of the writer’s driving situations, the brake pedal wasn’t pressed; simply lifting the foot off the accelerator pedal, and the iX3 used regen to stop, rather than the disc brakes.
Its regen system can also be adjusted at various levels, depending on the conditions and suitability. From the writer’s experience, you can use maximum regen in the city and for slow driving, while minimum regen for faster highway driving.
So, the writer didn’t run out of battery over several days of driving the iX3 around Kuala Lumpur, which is a good thing, isn’t it? But for your information, the iX3 will take seven and a half hours for a full charge if using AC. If using fast DC charging, it supports up to 150kW, meaning 80 percent of the battery can be reached in just 32 minutes.
Should I buy it?
The EV market in Malaysia has indeed been disrupted by the presence of Tesla, offering models with a driving range of over 500km at prices below RM200,000.
So, how about the BMW iX3? The M Sport Inspiring variant starts at RM307,160, while the M Sport Impressive variant that we tested is priced at RM328,160.
In the writer’s opinion, true car enthusiasts don’t mind all that, especially BMW enthusiasts. The iX3 is suitable for BMW owners who want EV technology after having a 5-Series or X3 at home.
The iX3 will be a practical EV for urban use, while maintaining a sporty image and appeal to “petrolheads”. In fact, it doesn’t immediately look like an EV at first glance, if that’s what you prefer.
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.
THE segment-B sedan category is quite critical in our country as these cars are considered affordable and serve as the main vehicles for many families. Therefore, it is important for manufacturers to be sensitive to users because even a small ‘deviation’ could invite criticism. However, by adding premium or new features to this segment, manufacturers can receive high praise for several weeks after the launch news is still hot.
The 2023 Toyota Vios, launched last March, represents an entirely new generation with a completely new interior and exterior. We will discuss its performance later.
Three major issues
However, if you are looking into or researching cars in this segment, you would know that the new Toyota Vios has two major issues – the rear seats cannot be folded, and there is no spare tire.
Why? Well, regarding the non-folding rear seats, the Toyota Vios development team shared with the media that according to their market research, most users do not use this function. MOST. Are you among this group, or are you a minority who will complain? So, they did not include this function, and as a result, the car is 10kg lighter due to the absence of a folding mechanism.
For the lack of a spare tire, they stated that it is to provide more storage space. If you look under the boot floor, there is Styrofoam storage space for small items. The absence of a spare tire also further reduces the car’s weight.
Overall, this new generation Vios is about 110kg lighter than the previous model. This time, the 1.5 G variant weighs only 1,035kg.
In fact, there is a third issue, which is the lower engine power. Compared to the previous Vios, which had 105hp and 140Nm from the 1.5-liter 2NR-FE engine, the new Vios is powered by the 2NR-VE engine with an output of 104hp and 138Nm of torque.
These figures decreased by 1hp and 2Nm, but in all honesty, you won’t feel the difference. But considering the lighter weight as mentioned earlier, the new Vios actually has a better power-to-weight ratio than before.
So, overall and theoretically, the new Vios is definitely more fuel-efficient. According to Toyota, the Vios has a fuel efficiency of up to 5.2 liters per 100km or 19.2km per liter.
Regarding major issues like non-folding rear seats and the lack of a spare tire, we should look at it this way: Toyota may be in a dilemma choosing between facing criticism from many people for not having a spare tire, or a few people complaining about the non-folding rear seats. We also believe fuel efficiency is more important for cars like this. So, let’s move on to the next topic.
Becoming more upmarket
One crucial aspect for Segmen-B sedan cars is style and appearance. In this regard, the new Toyota Vios does not disappoint. Its overall look can be described as more ‘upmarket.’ The front end now resembles larger Toyota sedans (such as the Toyota Corolla), featuring larger 17-inch rims (in the G variant) and a rear roof design akin to a fastback, which is currently on-trend.
The front appearance with its slanted LED headlights is still challenging for the writer to grasp, but, importantly, it gives a fresh image, markedly different from before. The larger rims not only complement the overall shape but also have a positive impact on handling.
This upmarket feel extends to the interior, where the Vios dashboard now looks modern and not cheap. If it used to be filled with hard gray plastic, the 2023 Vios now boasts softer touches, different color tones, and textures.
Simultaneously, the button and switch layout is still neat, easily accessible, and more pleasant to the touch. Additionally, the instrument display is now fully digital, with electronic parking brakes coming standard.
An interesting touch for the writer is the positioning of the window switch surfaces on the left and right door panels. They are glossy black, like most cars, but instead of being plain, they feature a diamond texture and a slightly recessed surface.
This is an easy and cost-effective solution, yet effective in adding a sense of premium and sophistication to the Vios. This is important because many buyers of cars in this category are upgrading from budget cars.
Have you been driving the Myvi since you started working, and now with a family and a promotion, you’re upgrading to the Vios? A common scenario, isn’t it?
Oh, we know that because the Vios is built on the DNGA platform (Daihatsu New Global Architecture), it shares the dashboard with models like the Axia and Alza. So, one way to position the Vios in a higher tier is the inclusion of wireless Android Auto and Apple Carplay integration.
Solid look, solid driving?
For driving dynamics, perhaps not many Vios buyers emphasize this aspect, even though UMW Toyota has used this car for the Vios Challenge event for several years.
Nonetheless, the fact is that this all-new Toyota Vios has seen an improvement in terms of driving dynamics, whether you need it or not. The first thing the writer noticed is the more precise and responsive steering with increased feedback.
It doesn’t feel unnecessarily heavy, but just enough for a natural feel. This makes the new Vios more enjoyable to drive, whether cruising slowly in the city or taking corners at triple-digit speeds.
The 205/50 tire profile and 17-inch rims also contribute to a better steering feel; it’s not just for looks. However, it’s worth noting that the cost of replacing tires will increase, so this is something to keep in mind. Approximately RM380 to RM400 for one tire of this size.
For a delightful driving experience, some investment is necessary, right? Most importantly, this ‘delightfulness’ comes from the factory’s R&D, not just a gimmick by the car enthusiasts.
The chassis is now more robust and stable, thanks to the use of DNGA. When taking S corners while descending from Genting Highlands, the suspension and tires work more consistently and clearly, a result of the sturdy chassis.
The writer honestly no longer enjoys ‘testing’ cars in Genting because there are too many wannabe ‘racers’ there now, but happened to have work there, so took the opportunity to drive the Vios.
Sufficient power? 104hp and 138Nm of torque is more than enough even when driving up to the peak of Genting Highlands. The new D-CVT gearbox with a combination of physical gears and a belt assists in efficiently transmitting the overall power to the front wheels. You feel the full force of the 104hp without any power wastage.
The engine noise will enter the cabin when revved beyond 4,000rpm, which is normal. But when the rpm stabilizes and you’re cruising at a constant speed, the Vios is fairly quiet and comfortable to drive for long distances.
Even when pushed, we will begin to reach the limits of the engine, tires, and gearbox. The tires supplied are Continental PremiumContact 7, not performance tires, so they start to struggle when you’re not smooth enough with steering inputs. This doesn’t mean the tires are not good; they are perfect for daily use in the Vios.
The engine and gearbox also work hard to keep up with the writer’s accelerations and climbs, then brake into corners, then accelerate again. The TCU (Transmission Control Unit) tries to provide the best gear ratios according to speed, rpm, and right foot input. But there are no issues with the chassis.
Additional information: Toyota already has a unit for the use of the Vios Challenge based on this new platform. Surely, it uses semi-slick tires and a manual transmission, so maybe next season we will be able to see how the performance of this new generation Vios holds up in actual races.
Not races at the Genting International Circuit, of course. Always drive carefully on public roads!
Safety features are not forgotten; the Vios now comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), which includes systems like Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Warning, and Front Departure Alert. The G variant also includes Lane Keeping Control, Auto High Beam, and Adaptive Cruise Control. For the writer, the G variant is the way to go as these three features are highly useful for everyday driving. Additionally, the price difference in monthly installments isn’t significant.
In conclusion, the 2023 Toyota Vios is indeed a significant shift in all aspects compared to the car it replaces. It is now more modern and dynamic to drive, and most importantly, it makes you feel it offers better value for money.
