All posts by Hanif Su'ib

Someone who loves driving manual cars but prefers riding an automatic scooter. Maybe it's an age thing.
TEST DRIVE

2024 Mitsubishi Xpander facelift, 3 things we dislike – Test Drive

265 Comments

For the information of our readers, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia has recently launched the facelifted version of the Xpander a few weeks ago.

A test drive review has also been published by us, and you can read the details through THIS link.

However, behind the positive aspects that we highlighted in the test drive article, there are a few shortcomings that can be improved and enhanced for the benefit of users in Malaysia.

 

1. Lackluster Acceleration

The Xpander facelift maintains the four-cylinder in-line 1.5-liter MIVEC engine producing 105 PS and 141 Nm of torque, paired with an automatic gearbox – similar to the pre-facelift model.

Therefore, the driving dynamics have not changed significantly, and the acceleration aspect is not the most powerful in its class.

For those with a heavy right foot, this Xpander facelift may not live up to expectations, especially when navigating hilly terrains.

However, for casual driving, it is more than sufficient, especially since the Xpander is fuel-efficient if driven correctly.

 

2. Headlights Look More Modern, but…

One thing the writer appreciates about the Xpander facelift is its updated and aggressive exterior design.

The headlights now feature a horizontal T-shaped design, while the daytime running lights are more advanced and brighter compared to the previous model which used fog lights as DRLs.

However, the downside is that the DRLs are integrated with the turn signals.

When the turn signals are activated, it may be difficult to see, especially for oncoming drivers, due to the DRLs not being dimmed together.

 

3. Price Factor and Included Features

The pricing factor might also make some users hesitant to acquire this latest Xpander model.

Its competitor, the Perodua Alza, starts at RM62,500, while its counterpart, the Veloz, is priced at RM95,000.

For budget-conscious consumers, this Mitsubishi Xpander might be overlooked due to its relatively higher price tag compared to its competitors, priced at RM99,980 even though it is assembled in the Pekan, Pahang plant.

Another aspect that we find challenging to deny is the standard safety factor present in this MPV model.

For the facelift version, the Xpander only offers very basic specifications, with just two airbags, while other competitors offer up to six airbags and more advanced ADAS features.

Regardless of the weaknesses listed in this article and the advantages present in the Xpander facelift, it is up to the readers to assess and choose the best option for their family’s use.

At the end of the day (and month), it is you who must take money out of your pocket, right?

NEWS

Harman Kardon introduces Flow/Feel series for you to enjoy concert-quality audio in your car

33 Comments

Harman Kardon has introduced the latest audio system series Flow and Feel, designed for those seeking concert-grade audio quality in their vehicles.

The Flow series features the Flow 600CF and Flow 601CFS 165 mm powerful 360W speakers, complete with a 19 mm tweeter, 180W midrange woofer Flow 300S, and a 19 mm dome tweeter Flow 75T 360W.

Additionally, there is an offer for the 200 mm subwoofer underseat Flow 80 with 375W power, specially designed as an upgrade solution for BMW factory subwoofers and adaptable to various Audi and Porsche models.

For those looking for powerful bass without taking up much space, the Feel 700, a compact 165 mm subwoofer, is ideal for placement under the seat.

The Feel 700 boasts powerful performance with a built-in 125W RMS amplifier housed in a die-cast aluminum enclosure wrapped in automotive-grade fabric.

The Harman Kardon Flow speaker system will be available for purchase online at https://my.harmankardon.com/.

Alternatively, you can acquire the products at selected car accessory stores starting from October 17, 2024.

Below is the list of retail prices for each Harman Kardon Flow/Feel product:
Harman Kardon Flow 75T – RM580
Harman Kardon Flow 80 – RM1,480
Harman Kardon Flow 300S – RM2,180
Harman Kardon Flow 600CF – RM4,280
Harman Kardon Flow 601CFS – RM3,480
Harman Kardon Feel 700 – RM2,280

NEWS

Ferrari F80, LaFerrari successor with 1,184 hp twin-turbo hybrid V6 engine!

80 Comments

Ferrari has finally unveiled the hypercar F80, the successor to iconic models like the GTO, F40, F50, and Enzo, following over a decade since the launch of the LaFerrari.

Despite not featuring the iconic V12 engine, the Ferrari F80 remains the most powerful model ever built by the Prancing Horse marque, boasting a total power output of 1,184 hp.

More than half of this horsepower is contributed by the 120-degree V6 engine, where the internal combustion engine alone can unleash a high 888 hp and 740 Nm, far surpassing the 296 GTB model.

The engine is aided by three electric motors, two at the front producing 282 hp each and a third at the rear generating 80 hp.

This makes the F80 the first Ferrari hypercar to feature all-wheel drive (AWD) system. Unfortunately, no EV mode is provided despite having three electric motors.

Instead, drivers can choose from three driving modes – Hybrid, prioritizing energy recovery and battery charging, Performance, and Qualify for full power.

There is a technology called Boost Optimization, where the system identifies sections on the track that need additional power thrust and is ready to unleash that power when necessary.

For this flagship model, the Ferrari F80 showcases a carbon fiber monocoque chassis, with the front and rear sub-frames made of aluminum.

This asymmetrical design provides a 1+1 seating configuration, allowing the driver’s seat to be adjusted while the passenger’s seat cannot.

The exterior of the F80 also features design cues from previous Ferrari models. For example, the front visor is inspired by the Daytona model, followed by angular front fenders and rear fenders reminiscent of the iconic F40.

The aerodynamic aspects of the F80 draw heavily from Ferrari’s expertise in Formula 1, capable of generating up to 1,000 kg of downforce at a speed of 249 km/h.

The CCM-R Plus brake system developed with Brembo offers 100% better mechanical strength than conventional carbon brakes, along with 300% better heat conduction rate.

There are two tire options – Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2s or Pilot Sport Cup 2Rs, sized at 285/30 at the front and 345/30 at the rear.

In addition to sharing the same engine as the 296 GTB, the F80 also shares the same suspension system settings as the Purosangue.

The spool-valve Multimatic damping system can offer a balance between performance handling and quality driving, while sidelining the use of traditional anti-roll bars.

Not forgetting, the active safety system includes automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, automatic high-beam assistance, and traffic sign recognition.

Only 799 units of the Ferrari F80 will be produced starting from the end of 2025, each commanding a starting price of €3.6 million (RM16.87 million).

NEWS

Toyota believes majority of buyers will choose manual GR Corolla over automatic

For those who missed the boat, Toyota has previously updated the offering of the hot hatch 2025 GR Corolla model by adding the option of an 8-speed automatic transmission as an alternative to the manual transmission model.

The trend of transitioning to automatic models, which we commonly witnessed before, seems to have difficulty in infecting the GR Corolla enthusiasts.

According to CarBuzz report, Toyota expects that 80 percent of buyers will choose the manual GR Corolla model, while the rest will opt for the Direct Automatic Transmission (DAT) equipped model.

This proves that the GR Corolla buyers are a group of enthusiasts who still yearn for a driving experience as pure as possible.

There are some differences between the existing auto transmission in the GR Corolla compared to the GR Supra and GR86 models.

According to Toyota, the GR Corolla gearbox will use input from the brake pedal and throttle to calculate the optimum time for gear changes.

The auto version of GR Corolla also now comes with a launch control function that is not available in the manual model.

NEWS

2024 GR GT Cup Asia: Taj Aiman emerges as champion, representing Asia at global finals this December

The final round of the 2024 Toyota Gazoo Racing (GR) GT Cup Asia concluded last weekend, with Taj Izrin Aiman emerging as the champion, surpassing 14 other participants from five ASEAN countries.

Accumulating a total of 65 points, Taj Aiman was crowned the individual champion of GR GT Cup Asia 2024, taking home a cash prize of US$ 8,000, followed by Andika Rama from Indonesia, the 2023 individual category champion, with a total of 57 points and a prize of US$4,500.

His fellow competitor Moreno Pratama secured the third position on the podium with 48 points and a cash prize of US$3,000.

This means that Taj Aiman and Andika Rama will represent Asia at the GR GT Global Finals on December 6th in Amsterdam.

Three races were featured, starting with the GR Yaris vehicles at the Sardegna Windmills rally circuit, followed by the GR Corolla Morizo Edition at the wet Nurburgring GP circuit, and finally the GR010 Hybrid vehicles at the Fuji International Speedway.

“I am truly at a loss for words. Despite facing technical difficulties and being unable to complete the race last year, I am extremely proud of the dedication and training that has paid off,” said Taj Aiman.

“I am very excited to continue training with Andika Rama in preparation for the Global Cup in Amsterdam.”

Andika Rama, representing Asia for the second time this year, added, “I am honored to represent Asia once again this year. Competing with Taj Aiman has been an incredible challenge.

“I pushed myself, but Aiman’s consistency and strategy in all three races were difficult to overcome. I am thrilled to have Aiman as a teammate as we prepare for the final round and cannot wait to make Asia proud.”

Three special awards were also presented to recognize outstanding performances by participants as follows:
• Driver of the Day – Taj Izrin Aiman (MY)
• Best Racecraft Driver – Russel Reyes (PH)
• Fastest Race Pace – Andika Rama (ID)

GR GT Cup Asia 2024 also welcomed Razer Inc. as the official partner, sponsoring a set of Razer BlackShark V2 X headsets designed to ensure smooth, clear, and comfortable communication among the racers.

EV, NEWS

Honda’s future EV will simulate the sound of the iconic models S2000, NSX, and HondaJet!

41 Comments

Driving an electric vehicle (EV) that is too quiet and smooth without any mechanical vibrations may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with an old-school soul.

So, Honda wants to ensure that their EV models to come will have unique driving characteristics and experiences.

During the recent 0 Tech Meeting 2024, Honda demonstrated a simulated driving concept that can mimic the characteristics of the brand’s high-performance iconic models.

Among them are the first generation Honda NSX, the hot hatch Civic Type R, the roadster S2000, the F1 machine, Honda CRX, and not forgetting the HondaJet personal jet!

In addition to displaying instrument panel themes based on the selected vehicles, this Honda e Digital UX Concept system can simulate the engine notes of the aforementioned models.

Fans of the loud VTEC engine roar will definitely not miss the chance to try this feature when it becomes available.

Honda will also use cabin vibration systems to create a driving experience akin to that of internal combustion engine cars.

According to The Drive, aside from the instrument panel themes and engine sound profiles, Honda is also experimenting with offering a more comprehensive experience, including introducing different tuning on the steering wheel, adjusting the pedal mapping, and the suspension system’s height.

Not to be missed, the simulated gear shifting feature using paddle shifters like those found in the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N model.

EV, NEWS

Tesla Robotaxi & Robovan, fully autonomous car without steering wheel and pedals

Elon Musk has finally fulfilled his ‘promise’ to introduce a Tesla car model without pedals and a steering wheel through the unveiling of the Robotaxi, also known as the Cybercab.

At first glance, the Robotaxi is a two-door coupe car that can only accommodate two people at a time and offers a fairly large cargo space.

Through its butterfly-wing doors, you can actually see the cabin of the Cybercab indeed has no steering wheel and pedals.

According to Elon Musk, the Robotaxi does not have a traditional charging port, as it relies entirely on wireless (inductive) charging.

There are no detailed specifications available regarding the electric propulsion unit used in the Robotaxi.

Interestingly, Elon Musk claims that the price of a Robotaxi will start below $30,000 (~RM130,000), with production planned to begin in 2026 or 2027.

Another concept model without a steering wheel showcased is the Robovan, which resembles a wheeled toaster. It lacks a front mirror, replaced instead by a large display screen inside.

The Robovan can accommodate up to 20 people at a time.

Both the Robotaxi and Robovan will rely on the Full-Self Driving autonomous driving software to operate on real roads.

Only time will tell whether this software can be trusted or not, given that Tesla already has a poor track record for the existing Full Self-Driving system in its current models.

NEWS

We’ve tried Apple CarPlay on the 2025 Proton X70!

As everyone is aware, in the latest update, the Proton X70 C-segment SUV will come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard features for the 2025 model year.

Based on a brief test drive report by a colleague a few weeks ago, it seems that the feature is still not available for use.

Yesterday (October 15, 2024), we had the opportunity to try out the much-anticipated Apple CarPlay connection on the Proton X70 for media test driving purposes.

During the brief period of use, no significant differences were felt compared to the similar systems found in other modern cars.

Menus and applications such as Google Maps or Waze can be easily accessed on the 12.3-inch infotainment screen without much delay, and owners can also choose to use the phrases “Hey Proton” or “Hey Siri” to direct the system to perform specific operations while driving.

Those who are familiar with using Apple CarPlay will understand the importance of this system in a new car, especially when driving in urban areas.

For your information, this wireless Apple CarPlay feature will only be available for the 2025 Proton X70 model through over-the-air updates that will be implemented in stages.

The availability of the Android Auto feature will be announced later on.

NEWS

2025 Mitsubishi Triton, new platform & engine, five variants, starting from RM102k

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia has officially launched the new generation pickup truck 2025 Mitsubishi Triton, for the local market.

It will be available in five main variants, consisting of four double-cab variants and one single-cab variant designed for heavy-duty work.

Utilizing a completely new, more robust platform, the 2025 Triton offers larger dimensions, with a length of 5,360 mm (+55 mm), width of 1,930 mm (+115 mm), height of 1,815 mm (+35 mm), and a wheelbase of 3,130 mm (+130 mm).

As standard, the Triton comes with double wishbone suspension in the front, followed by leaf spring suspension at the rear aided by tuning for improved handling and comfort.

In addition to the new platform, the Triton also comes with the new MIVEC 4N16 diesel engine, producing 181 hp @ 3,500 rpm and a torque of 430 Nm @ 2,250-2,500 rpm.

The top variant, Athlete, features a two-stage turbo with Euro 5 standard, delivering high power at 204 PS @ 3,500 rpm and a torque of 470 Nm @ 1,500-2,750 rpm.

Moreover, the Athlete variant also includes an electronic power steering (EPS) system and the 4WD Super Select II system, offering up to seven driving modes (Normal, Eco, Gravel, Sand, Mud, Snow, Rock).

Only the two lowest variants (including the single-cab variant) are equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox, while the rest come with a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

The new Triton now features an upgraded Dynamic Shield design language with a “Beast Mode” approach.

Exterior features include LED headlights, LED daytime running lights (DRL), 18-inch rims (16 inches for lower variants), and T-shaped graphics on the rear lights.

The cabin uses a more modern Horizontal Axis concept, showcasing analog meters, a seven-inch LCD screen, a central touch screen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto support, six climate control speakers, rear row air vents, premium leatherette-wrapped seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and leather-wrapped gear knob.

The base variant is equipped with a basic audio system that comes with 4 speakers, fabric seats, and urethane-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob.

In terms of safety, the Mitsubishi Triton comes with up to seven airbags, ABS, EBD, Hill Start Assist, Active Stability Control, Hill Descent Control (HDC), as well as advanced safety features such as Forward Collision Mitigation System, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Blind Spot Warning (BSM), Lane Change Assist (LCA), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), and High Beam Assistance (AHB).

For the local market, the selling prices of the Mitsubishi Triton 2025 are as follows:
Triton Single Cab (MT) – RM101,980
Triton GL (MT) – RM114,980
Triton GL (AT) – RM116,980
Triton Premium (AT) – RM145,980
Triton Athlete (AT) – RM165,980

As standard, the 2025 Mitsubishi Triton comes with a manufacturer’s warranty for five years or a mileage limit of 200,000 km (whichever comes first), except for the Mitsubishi Triton Athlete, which comes with an unlimited mileage warranty for five years, valid for registration until only December 31, 2024.

 

2025 Mitsubishi Triton Athlete

2025 Mitsubishi Triton Single Cab

NEWS

Bermaz offers diesel at RM1.05/liter for 5 years for new Kia Carnival buyers

Dinamikjaya Motors Sdn Bhd, the sole distributor of the Kia brand vehicles in Malaysia, has launched a special campaign for the Kia Carnival model.

The “Fuel-on-Us” campaign, which runs from October 1 to December 31, 2024, allows new Kia Carnival owners to enjoy subsidized diesel prices at RM1.05/liter for a period of five years without worrying about changes in fuel prices every week.

To participate in this campaign, customers must register their purchase of the Kia Carnival through any authorized Kia dealer during the campaign period.

Each purchase is eligible for only one application.

The Kia Carnival comes with a 2.2-liter turbo diesel engine producing 202 PS and 440 Nm of torque.

With a fuel tank capacity of 72 liters, the Kia Carnival offers a fuel consumption rate of 6.5 liters/100 km, providing a range of up to 850 km on a full tank of fuel.

In Malaysia, the Kia Carnival is offered in three main variants, with prices starting from RM198,500.

NEWS

Mitsubishi Malaysia opens third 3S center in Terengganu

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia officially opens the third Mitsubishi 3S (Sales, Service & Spare Parts) center in the state of Terengganu.

The opening of this new 3S center expands the Mitsubishi Motors dealer network to 61 outlets nationwide.

Managed by Lajina Motors Sdn Bhd, this 3S center also showcases the Mitsubishi Motors brand identity, in line with the global message “Drive Your Ambition”.

Spanning 3,600 square feet, the 3S center also features a customer waiting area complete with Wi-Fi, a dedicated children’s area, and a comprehensive service center with multiple service bays available.

The 3S center is located at Lot 3309-3310, Jalan Padang Luas, Taman Pelangat 2, 22000 Jerteh, open from Saturday to Thursday (8:45 am-5:15 pm) and closed every Friday.

According to CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia, Shinya Ikeda stated, “Considering MMM is planning to launch several new models, we want to ensure our customers have broader coverage and accessibility to exhibition centers and service centers near them.

“Lajina Motors has been with Mitsubishi since 2015, and this is their second 3S outlet in Terengganu. With comfortable facilities and advanced equipment, I am confident that our customers in Jerteh are in good hands,” he added.

EV, NEWS

Zeekr 009: Comparison with 4 popular premium MPV models in Malaysia

52 Comments

Zeekr Malaysia has recently announced the upcoming launch of a premium MPV model, the Zeekr 009.

It is set to offer stiff competition in the premium MPV segment, especially against the popular Alphard/Vellfire twin models that are well-known among the Malaysian populace.

For this article, we will share the differences in specifications between the Zeekr 009 model and premium MPVs such as Alphard/Vellfire, Lexus LM, and Kia Carnival.

 

Dimensions

The majority of the models mentioned have dimensions exceeding 5 meters.

Starting with the Alphard/Vellfire, it measures 5,010 mm in length, 1,850 mm in width, 1,950 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,000 mm.

Another twin, the Lexus LM, has longer dimensions (5,125 mm) and is wider (1,890 mm) but maintains the same wheelbase length.

The Kia Carnival, on the other hand, presents much larger dimensions, measuring 5,155 mm in length, 1,995 mm in width, a wheelbase of 3,090 mm, but lower in height (1,740 mm).

The largest? Certainly the Zeekr 009.

With dimensions measuring 5,209 mm in length, it is also wider (2,024 mm) with a longer wheelbase (3,205 mm). Its height is around 1,848 mm, meaning it is slightly lower compared to the Alphard/Vellfire.

 

Engine

This is an interesting comparison, as all five premium MPV models are equipped with different powertrains.

The least powerful is undoubtedly the Toyota Vellfire with a 2.5-liter NA engine generating 180 hp and 235 Nm of torque.

The Toyota Alphard, on the other hand, comes with a 2.4-liter turbo engine producing 274 hp and 430 Nm of torque, while the Lexus LM is equipped with a similar capacity engine but with a hybrid setup, delivering a total power of 371 hp and 550 Nm of torque.

The Kia Carnival features a 2.2-liter turbo diesel engine that has been offered for quite some time, producing 199 hp and 440 Nm of torque.

The Zeekr 009, on the other hand, is an EV with two electric motors generating 603 hp and 693 Nm of torque, an all-wheel-drive system, and a 116 kWh battery pack with a range of 582 km (WLTP data).

Due to the powerful electric motors, this MPV is capable of accelerating from 0-100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds. It is very suitable for transporting VIPs who have difficulty keeping to a schedule in Malaysia.

 

Price

One aspect considered by buyers in Malaysia is the selling price.

The most affordable in this list is undoubtedly the Kia Carnival, with the base variant available for as low as RM198,500. The most expensive version of the Carnival bears a price tag of RM259,888.

Shifting to the Toyota/Lexus trio, the cheapest among the three models is the Toyota Vellfire, with a starting selling price of around RM438,000.

The Toyota Alphard is slightly more expensive, priced at RM538,000, while the much more premium Lexus LM can be obtained for RM1,228,000 to RM1,468,000!

The Zeekr 009 seems to be more comfortably positioned in the middle, with an estimated selling price below RM370,000, with the actual selling price to be known only after its official launch.

Will Zeekr 009 be a good buy?

NEWS

Honda ADV160, CRF1000L Africa Twin gets new colors

43 Comments

Boon Siew Honda updates the offerings of two popular models, the Honda ADV160 and Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES, with new color options.

For the Honda ADV160, the scooter can now be chosen in Matte Green and Matte Red as alternatives to the existing white and grey colors.

Meanwhile, for the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin, buyers can opt for Matte Iridium Gray Metallic, as well as Pearl Glare White featuring updated graphics.

The basic specifications of both vehicles remain the same as the previous models.

The Honda ADV160 is powered by a single-cylinder 157 cc engine producing 15.8 hp @ 8,500 rpm and torque of 14.7 Nm @ 6,500 rpm, assisted by ABS brakes and Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC).

Prices start from RM13,549 for the two new colors, while the existing colors maintain their price at RM13,249.

The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES utilizes a liquid-cooled parallel-twin 1,084 cc engine generating 100.6 hp @ 7,500 rpm and torque of 112 Nm @ 5,500 rpm, with a 7 percent increase in torque compared to the previous offering.

Additionally, it features a 19-inch front wheel for better on-road and off-road handling, adjustable saddle height (820 mm or 840 mm), and a redesigned seat for improved riding support.

Prices start from RM119,388 excluding road tax, insurance, and registration fees.

NEWS

Honda BigWing Damansara PJ showroom is now officially open

82 Comments

Boon Siew Honda announced the official opening of the Honda BigWing Damansara showroom on the 12th of October.

Managed by Fast Bikes Sdn Bhd, this exclusive showroom for Honda’s large motorcycles employs an open concept that offers a variety of Big Bike Honda models, including touring motorcycles up to adventure models.

This fifth Honda BigWing facility also includes a service center and a comfortable waiting area, making it a comprehensive one-stop center for Honda Big Bike enthusiasts and owners.

Located at 3, Jalan 13/1, Section 13, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Honda BigWing Damansara is open every day from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Customers are welcome to visit and view the showcased models, or schedule a service appointment through the Honda X platform or simply contact 03-79609007 for any assistance.

EV, NEWS

JAC i40 now in Malaysia, 141 hp/300 Nm, 300 km range, from RM156k

113 Comments

R&A Greentech Solutions Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary under the Sendok Group, has introduced another electric-powered commercial truck, the JAC i40, to the local market.

The JAC i40 is available in four body configurations, namely wood cargo, refrigerated box, corrugated box, and standard box van.

In terms of dimensions, the i40 measures 5,300 mm in length, 1,750 mm in width, 1,990 mm in height with a wheelbase of 3,100 mm, and a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of around 3,700 kg.

It is powered by a single 141 hp electric motor delivering 300 Nm of torque, with power sourced from a 63.75 kWh battery pack.

The range is approximately 230 km according to WLTP data, or up to 300 km at a maximum speed of 60 km/h.

The JAC i40 supports AC charging (20-100% in 8.5 hours) and fast DC charging at 90 kW enabling 20-80% battery charging in just 40 minutes.

Inside, the JAC i40 features amenities such as a 5-inch TFT cluster screen, a seven-inch central display with Bluetooth support and a reverse camera, and a rotary knob in the center.

Safety features include ABS, EBS, Hill Start Assist, Electronic Stability Control, and Low-Speed Pedestrian Alert System.

For the Malaysian market, the selling price of the JAC i40 starts from RM155,600 (on the road without insurance) for the base version and can go up to RM223,800 for the refrigerated box version.

NEWS

Hot Wheels announces Proton Saga white colour variant, launching this week

50 Comments

Good news for 1:64 scale car collectors, as Hot Wheels has just announced the release of a new variant for the Proton Saga model.

The white car will be featured in the 2025 Case B series and is expected to hit the market in the near future.

According to a post on Facebook, Hot Wheels is also organizing a box-opening session at the LG2 Blue Concourse Sunway Pyramid from October 11-13.

This marks the second variant produced by Hot Wheels, following the initial red variant that was introduced last year.

The white Saga still features the same design elements present in the red Saga, including the original Saga logo, Hot Wheels logo, and the Aerodisc wheel design.

 

NEWS

Steering issue: Honda USA recalls 1.7 million vehicles

In the United States, Honda and Acura are conducting a recall campaign involving a total of 1,693,199 vehicle units, according to Automotive News.

Based on information from the NHTSA agency, there is a problem with the installation process of steering components, resulting in excessive internal friction. This condition can cause some owners to have difficulty in controlling their vehicles.

Honda suspects that the steering rack issue only involves one percent of the vehicles, or around 17,000 units out of the total number recalled.

The steering problem was first detected in September 2021, and since then, Honda has received a total of 10,328 warranty claims.

The NHTSA agency has also received 13 reports of accidents related to the steering issue, including 11 cases filed by drivers who were unable to control their vehicles properly. Fortunately, no injury incidents have been reported.

Affected models include the Acura Integra (model years 2023-2025), Honda Civic (2023-2025, including hybrid models), Honda Civic Type R (2023-2025), Honda CR-V (2023-2025, including the 2025 CR-V FCEV), and Honda HR-V (2023-2025).

Honda USA plans to replace the worm gear spring component with a new one, and add grease to reduce friction on each recalled vehicle at no additional cost.

NEWS

Get your pre-owned Volvo SELEKT car, priced as low as RM165k on October 19-20

64 Comments

Volvo Car Malaysia will be hosting the Volvo Executive Car Sales event at Symphony Square, Petaling Jaya on October 19 and 20, from 10 AM to 6 PM.

More than 50 units of Volvo SELEKT cars will be showcased with prices starting as low as RM165,000, including units exclusively used by management.

Interestingly, all cars for sale have mileage not exceeding 15,000 km, with the lowest recorded at about 1,200 km only.

However, all car models come with an unlimited mileage guarantee, Volvo Service Inclusive for EV models, digital services, 24-hour roadside assistance, and a high-voltage battery guarantee similar to new cars.

This is also the last chance for wagon enthusiasts to get the Volvo V60 Recharge model, as its production has been discontinued by Volvo Car Malaysia.

This wagon model offers 462 hp with fuel consumption as low as 1.4 liters/100 km in hybrid mode, in addition to offering an electric range of up to 90 km.

Two Volvo EVs will also be showcased at the Volvo Executive Car Sales event, namely the Volvo C40 and the Volvo XC40 Recharge Pure Electric.

You can make appointments through the website https://bit.ly/VolvoMY-ExecutiveSales.

NEWS

2024 Haval H6 HEV now in Malaysia, 243 PS/530 Nm, from RM139,800

18 Comments

Great Wall Motors Malaysia (GWM) Malaysia has officially launched the hybrid SUV model 2024 Haval H6 HEV today.

It is powered by a hybrid powertrain unit, consisting of a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine (150 PS/230 Nm) paired with an electric motor (177 PS/300 Nm), generating a total power output of 243 PS and 530 Nm.

The power is transmitted to the wheels through a Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) with two-speed ratios.

Only one variant is offered, namely the H6 HEV Ultra, equipped with features such as the ‘Star Matrix’ grille structure, LED matrix headlights, and glossy black 19-inch alloy wheels.

Meanwhile, the cabin boasts amenities such as dual-zone climate control, rear air conditioning vents, leather-wrapped seats, power tailgate, wireless device charging slot, panoramic sunroof, head-up display screen, and an audio system with eight speakers.

The cargo space measures 560 liters and can extend to a capacity of up to 1,485 liters when the second-row seats are folded flat.


In terms of safety, the Haval H6 HEV comes with six airbags, a 360-degree surround-view camera system, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, traffic jam assist, rear cross-traffic alert, lane change assist, and parking assistance system.

The selling price of the 2024 Haval H6 HEV starts from RM139,800, complete with a full vehicle warranty for seven years/200,000 km, a 10-year engine warranty or a limit of one million km, as well as an eight-year or one million km warranty for HEV components.

In addition to the offer of a free five-year service package and a RM3,000 discount for bookings made by October 20, 2024, existing GWM vehicle owners can also enjoy an additional rebate worth RM3,000.

NEWS

2024 TASKL: More than 300 modified cars, including 15 special cars from Japan!

85 Comments

The 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon Kuala Lumpur (TASKL) will take place from November 8th to 10th at the Malaysia International Trade & Exhibition Centre (MITEC).

For this year’s event, the organizers will provide a space of 170,000 square feet to display over 300 modified cars, including 15 special cars brought from Japan.

The TASKL 2024 event will witness the reappearance of the Top Secret icon, Smoky Nagata, as well as several famous tuners such as Veilside, Trust/Greddy, Option, San Ei Corporation, and the diecast manufacturer Tomica.

In addition to exclusive merchandise, TASKL 2024 will also feature the 1:64 scale chameleon-colored Inno64 Nissan GT-R R33 Nismo 400R model, which can be purchased online with each ticket purchase or during the event (while stocks last).


As we have reported previously, visitors have the opportunity to take home a lucky draw prize in the form of a Honda Civic Type R FK8 Mugen.

The process is simple; visitors only need to purchase a ticket and make an additional payment of RM28 to qualify for entry into the lucky draw session.

To find out the ticket prices for TASKL, please click the link below:

TASKL 2024 announces the Honda Civic Type R FK8 Mugen as the grand prize lucky draw!