The first official photos of the facelifted Proton Iriz, PROTON’s award winning B-segment hatchback, have been released. Set to be launched later this year, the Iriz is the first model in the Company’s current range to be given a facelift since the collaboration with Geely was announced. The new exterior lines are designed to portray connectivity with a sporty look as well as to build visual links with other models by using design elements that are common between them.
The front of the Iriz features new slim headlights that are integrated with a prominent grille garnish, which in turn has a shape inspired by the “Ethereal Bow” that made its debut on the Proton X70. The radiator grille meanwhile features the “Infinite Weave” pattern sculpted into its design and is topped by a trademark Proton logo. The bold new front bumper features a new lower radiator grille shape as well as sleek LED daytime running lights (DRL) adding a sophisticated touch to the overall design.
At the rear, the Proton Iriz gets the new corporate identity feature of the PROTON name being spelled out on the tailgate garnish in place of the logo previously used. The visual impact is it now looks wider, an impression reinforced by the new rear bumper. Vertical garnish inserts framing a new bumper stripe are the bumper’s most prominent features, lending the rear of the Iriz a more stable and sporty stance whilst adding character.
Just like at the front, the new rear bumper integrates seamlessly with the overall proportions and the finishing touch is provided by an Iriz nameplate in a distinctive new typeface. A final flourish of sporty style is provided by a shark fin antenna and new rotor blade design alloy wheels.
The connected car…
The face lifted Proton Iriz is equipped with a colour touch screen, developed by PROTON and ECARX and offering connectivity options as well as voice command functions. This will be the first time a B-segment hatchback from a national car maker is offered with such features, reinforcing its sporty yet intelligent image. More information on the infotainment system and the mechanical specification of the Proton Iriz will be released closer to the launch date.
It’s not a surprise to us actually, that the amazing new Peugeot 508 picked-up the award for “most beautiful” car of 2018, because the highlight of our 2018 was driving the car in Monte Carlo. Truly one of the most memorable and epic media drives we’ve ever attended, and you can read about it here.
We also managed to do a couple of videos as well during our time with the 508, and here’s the first one…
PEUGEOT received two awards at the 34th International Automobile Festival held on 29 January 2019 at Hôtel des Invalides in Paris. The new PEUGEOT 508 won the Grand Prix award for Most Beautiful Car of the Year 2018.
The PEUGEOT e-LEGEND Concept received the Grand Prix award for the Most Beautiful Concept Car of the Year. Jean-Philippe Imparato, CEO of the PEUGEOT brand, and Gilles Vidal, PEUGEOT Design Director, collected the two prizes.
Here’s the second video of the 508 in Monaco…
The new PEUGEOT 508 won the award with over 34% of the votes. The brand’s radical saloon has been ordered in over 10,000 units in Europe since launch in October 2018, following its public reveal in March 2018 in Geneva.
Here’s what it’s like to drive the new 508…
PEUGEOT e-LEGEND Concept (below) won the prize for the Most Beautiful Concept Car of the Year. The expert and enthusiast jury members, hailing from the automotive, architecture, fashion and design sectors, were won over by the concept car, which embodies the exciting vision of the future of a 100% autonomous, electric, connected and customisable vehicle according to PEUGEOT.
Below is an in-car video of the 508 Sedan with Bobby Ang of AURIZN…
Each year the International Automobile Festival rewards the most attractive automotive designs. Architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte and fashion designer Chantal Thomass chaired a jury of experts from the automotive, fashion, culture and design sectors. But wait, there’s also….
BONUS: The Wagon 508 SW!
In addition to the 508 Sedan aka Fastback, there’s also a Sports Wagon variant that you can read about here!
Want to know more about the new 508? Check these videos out!
Part 2…
Stay tuned to Piston.my for the Malaysia launch of this amazing car, coming soon in 2019!
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Kuala Lumpur has introduced what’s likely the most luxurious SUV ever made, the Cullinan. Equally at home on the streets of Kuala Lumpur or on the country roads of East Malaysia, Cullinan will take a new segment of adventurous customers to the ends of the country in ultimate luxury.
Speaking at the launch, Mr. David Kim, Asia Pacific Regional Sales Manager for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars commented, “Cullinan has been Rolls-Royce’s most anticipated new model, not least here in Malaysia, in a country where the mix of wide open roads and off-road terrain suit our new motor car. In addition, we know that Cullinan will complement the varied lifestyles of our highly successful customers here.”
Rolls-Royce customers are now able to purchase in Malaysia a super-luxury SUV that can go effortlessly, everywhere in ultimate luxury and style. Cullinan is underpinned by a bespoke platform called the ‘Architecture of Luxury’, unique to the brand, which accords the car a level of performance, comfort and refinement never before seen in the SUV segment.”
Mr. Anas Zawawi Khalid, Director for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Kuala Lumpur, said, “We are very excited about the arrival of Cullinan. Many of our customers have been waiting to add this pinnacle SUV to their stable of cars because of the promise of its versatility, unmatched levels of super-luxury and comfort, as well as on- and off-road performance. This remarkable motor car is creating tremendous amounts of interest amongst younger, affluent customers who are new to Rolls-Royce but who value adventure and freedom of travel without compromise.”
Each Rolls-Royce Cullinan is Bespoke, pricing is dependent on customer specification Estimate pricing: from RM 1.8 million (before tax)
The new Aprilia Shiver 900 has arrived in Malaysia! It represents the first model introduced by Didi Resources Sdn. Bhd., following their acquisition of the import and distributorship rights in 2018. The Shiver 900 is most recent evolution of the original project of a motorcycle that, from its first appearance on the scene in 2007, marked a turning point as the first factory bike fitted with Ride-by-wire technology to manage engine throttle valve electronics. An Aprilia technological first derived directly from the racing world: In fact, Aprilia Cube was the first MotoGP bike to use this technology in 2002 and since then all of the other manufacturers have followed suit.
The beating heart of the Aprilia Shiver, the 900 V-twin engine, is capable of increasing not only the power, but more importantly, the maximum torque delivered at any rpm at top levels for its category. Power and character that translate into great riding satisfaction without sacrificing the ease and comfort that have always been characteristics of the Aprilia Shiver. A bike that has made fledgling and expert riders alike fall in love, thanks to its chassis architecture that, in the best Aprilia tradition, draws on the know-how of a manufacturer that has won 54 world titles in its brief history and that currently has bikes in premier competitions like MotoGP and Superbike.
Here’s the launch video!
The easy to ride, powerful and technologically advanced Aprilia Shiver 900 is equipped with an advanced traction control system that increases safety while taking riding pleasure to maximum levels. From city riding to more flowing routes, from mountain passes to touring itineraries, even long range, Shiver 900 invites you to fasten your helmet and set off in search of the best sensations on two wheels.
Speaking at the introduction, Mr Goh Kian Sin, Director, Didi Resources Sdn Bhd. “The previous Shiver was positively received by Malaysians and we believe the latest incarnation in the form 900 would be well received and our commitment since taking over the distributorship is to deliver more value in terms of lifestyle activation, after sales and parts centres nationwide in order for us to retail more Aprilia bikes in Malaysia”.
The design: a non-conventional sport naked…
A non-conformist sport naked, Aprilia Shiver 900 emphasises a distinctive design: from the lateral air intake ducts that embrace the front end to the characteristic compact rear end with the exhaust pipes positioned under the saddle, the superstructure – fuel tank side covers, side panels, tail, front mudguard – form an original and non-conformist look.
The twin cylinder from Noale also stands out for its aggressive features that highlight its distinctly sporty character: the frame, the shock absorber spring and the cylinder head covers are painted red. Adrenaline-charged details that blend with the three available colour schemes – Hi Tech Silver and the new Challenging Red and Innovation Dark -, creating an original contrast.
Another characterizing element of Aprilia Shiver is the exhaust: the position under the saddle contributes to an extremely clean side view of the bike, with the terminal part of the silencer short and aimed upward. A brand new exhaust bottom made up of concentric rings ends in a concave disc: a further bold stylistic element that makes the Shiver immediately recognizable even from the rear, as well as being a practical way to send the exhaust fumes downward, thereby avoiding interference with the passenger and ensuring greater comfort.
Aprilia Shiver 900 is priced at RM 72,000 and can be viewed at The Gasket Alley, Petaling Jaya, Welly World Cycle Sg. Buloh and Sheng Fatt Sdn. Bhd, Penang. For more info, please visit http://aprilia.com/en_EN/ / and Facebook apriliaofficialmalaysia.
More info & tech specs after the photo gallery!
2019 Aprilia Shiver 900 Photo Gallery…
More on the new Aprilia Shiver 900…
Engine: we write torque, you read fun…
The engine, grown to 900 cc from the 750 cc of the first version, is characterised above all by its generous mid-range torque, all to the advantage of quick acceleration and exiting turns. The 90 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm guarantee pure fun in the saddle: this goal was a priority for the Aprilia engineers in designing the twin cylinder with more than 95 HP, also available in the version with power limited to 35 kW, that can be ridden with an A2 class driver’s license. Aprilia Shiver 900 is therefore an easy bike to ride even for new bikers, accompanying them in their personal evolution of experience in the saddle.
The powerplant, with a 90 degree angle between the two cylinders, four-valve timing per cylinder, dual overhead cam and liquid cooling, underwent various changes, including a significant operation aimed at reducing friction on the pistons characterised by a special anti-friction feature on the mantle, whereas the pins contribute to lightening the alternated parts in motion.
On the other hand, an efficient semi-dry carter internal lubrication circuit helps to reduce losses of power due to shaking and to keep consumption and temperature of the lubricant to a limit, thereby eliminating the need for an oil radiator. High levels of efficiency have also been reached in terms of combustion, thanks to the implementation of injectors that allow better spraying of the air/fuel mixture, with benefits to consumption and emissions. The Aprilia Shiver 900 engine is also fitted with an automatic decompresser which makes it easier to start in low temperature conditions.
The unit fitted on the Aprilia Shiver 900 is controlled by the Marelli 7SM ECU: a substantial evolution that, on one hand, has allowed a refined traction control system to be introduced and that, on the other hand, has led to a significant simplification of the electrical system; in fact, the engine control and management systems, functions that were previously carried out by two separate electronic control units, are now integrated in a single hardware components, the same one fitted on the V4 models from Noale.
All of the clutch components have been redesigned in correspondence to the switch to the 900 cc engine capacity: The load on the clutch lever has decreased by 15%, whereas the primary drive reduction ratio has been changed to optimize exploitation of the available power.
Refined electronics to reiterate its supremacy
The Shiver 900 receives the full benefits of Aprilia’s extensive experience in electronic control systems and riding support for which the Aprilia RSV4 – the supersport bike that has won seven World SBK titles (three rider and four manufacturer) in its racing version and that is consistently at the top of its category in the street version – is an unrivalled example.
Out of this experience and from this Aprilia technological first, the Shiver 900 features an advanced traction control system that can be set to three different levels or disabled, designed to guarantee maximum safety, but also pure brilliant riding enjoyment thanks to the dual control that acts on both ignition and on the motorized throttle valves, making its intervention smooth and easy to manage. The Aprilia Traction Control system is combined with a Continental two-channel ABS system with developed calibration in order not to take anything away from the sporty ride. The ABS feature can also be disabled.
The fullRide-by-wire electronic throttle system, which made its début on a factory bike precisely on the first version of the Shiver, is now entirely integrated in the throttle grip, all to the benefit of light weight. This system also allows even more accurate management of the fuel/air mixture and the injection throttle valve opening based on numerous parameters including engine speed, gearbox position, air flow, throttle grip opening (in quantity and speed) and temperature, with great benefits in terms of smooth riding without opening/closing jerks, containment of harmful emissions and fuel consumption.
The sophisticated electronic management also provides the possibility of changing the engine mapping, radically changing the character of how the power it is capable of developing is unloaded onto the ground. The Sport setting provides an immediate and aggressive throttle response; the Touring logic provides a smoother response, ideal for touring and daily use, whereas the Rain map reduces available power to about 70 HP and is therefore ideal in the event of difficult weather conditions or on slippery road surfaces. Mapping can also be changed at any time, even on the fly, by simply pressing the engine start button.
The control instrumentation is made up of an ultra modern TFT technology display that ensures perfect legibility of the information provided. The large, 4.3” screen (the same one used on the Aprilia RSV4 and Aprilia Tuono 1100 V4) allows all the on board information to be clear and highly legible at all times, thanks in part to its capacity of adapting the background and font colours based on the conditions detected by the light sensor. The information displayed includes: rev counter, speedometer, selected gear indicator, coolant temperature, air temperature, selected engine map and clock.
Using the practice MODE joystick on the new left hand electrical block, you can navigate through the menu and scroll/adjust the following parameters: odometer, traction control level, ABS ON (only when not in movement), MENU (only when not in movement), Trip A, Trip A time, Trip A maximum speed, Trip A average speed, Trip A average consumption, Trip B, Trip B time, Trip B maximum speed, Trip B average speed, Trip B average consumption, instantaneous consumption, Km ridden in reserve.
Aprilia Shiver 900 is also fitted from the factory with the APRILIA MIA system, which ensure connectivity with your smartphone to allow all call information to be displayed directly on the display, as well as intercom information and any music tracks that may be playing. By connecting to the smartphone using the dedicated App, the display also becomes a navigation tool, displaying the instructions for the selected route through pictograms.
Last but not least, the App lets you share travel information, from the info on the sportiest riding style, to the info on touring, with indication on consumption, routes and speeds, grip conditions and Aprilia service centre locations.
A chassis architecture worthy of the Aprilia tradition
The performance provided by the powerplant is perfectly matched to an ultra-fine chassis architecture, easy to ride and intuitive, but at the same time incredibly high performance that, in the best Aprilia tradition, is simply unrivalled in the category. In fact, the mixed steel trellis/aluminium plates frame provides standard-setting stiffness, defines an extremely compact bike and ensures that it is capable of catering to fledgling riders with no problem, as well as enhancing the riding skills of more expert and discerning bikers. This makes flowing routes a favourite playground for the Shiver 900.
The structure of Shiver 900 draws from all the proverbial Aprilia chassis architecture know-how, as well as their experience on tracks all over the world. The trellis upper part in steel tubing is connected to wide spread aluminium lateral plates using special, high-resistance bolts. The combination formed by these elements forms an extremely stiff and lightweight frame, an rational and excellent solution for reining in all the horses of the Aprilia V90.
The contained longitudinal development of the engine has led to obtaining an agile bike, a feature that also benefits from the choice to position the shock absorber laterally. Thanks to this solution, space was created for the exhaust manifolds that have a shape and volume calibrated to perfection in order to get the best performance from the engine. This has allowed for an optimum exhaust manifold layout, without having a significant impact on the length of the bike and without thermally stressing a fundamental riding element like the shock absorber.
The aluminium alloy swingarm with stiffening truss boasts stiffness values at the top of its category and it is sized to withstand the asymmetrical stress due to the lateral positioning of the shock absorber.
Aprilia Shiver 900 adopts a Kayaba forkwith hydraulics adjustable in extension and spring preload and with 41 mm stanchions with chill cast feet to support the radial callipers. The 130 mm travel lets you smoothly tackle urban and mountain routes. The two steering yoke plates are made of forged aluminium.
The rear shock absorber, mounted on the side, is pivoted directly to the swingarm, following the cantilever layout and it is adjustable in spring preload and hydraulic rebound. Rear wheel travel is 130 mm.
The sporty three-spoke wheels are taken from the Aprilia Tuono V4 equipment and contribute to keeping weight down. This leads to a drastic reduction of the gyroscopic effect and therefore greater agility for the bike, improved suspension functionality thanks to the reduction of unsprung masses and quicker acceleration. The rims are shod with a 120/70 tyre on the front and 180/55 on the rear.
The braking system, equipped with two-channel ABS, implements radial callipers to highlight the sportiness of the project and 320 mm discs on the front. On the rear, a 240 mm disc is gripped by a single-piston calliper.
Both the front and rear systems have metal braided brake lines derived from the aeronautic sector, which eliminate the annoying buffering effect of conventional lines and guarantee maximum braking precision.
Original Aprilia accessories range: for sport and touring
A wide range of accessories dedicated to sport and touring is available for the Shiver 900 as well. The former highlight the sport soul and the unmistakable Aprilia racing character: parts in precious carbon, billet aluminium components, such as brake and clutch fluid reservoir covers, brake and clutch levers and mirrors, as well as the must-have frame guard and fork bumpers. It also has LED turn signals with a highly characteristic design. The tourism accessories contribute to increasing the comfort of the Shiver 900, such as the comfort saddle, the side panniers and the tank bag.
Aprilia Shiver 900 – Technical Specifications
Engine type
Aprilia V90 Longitudinal 90° V-twin engine, 4-stroke, liquid cooled, double overhead camshaft with mixed gear/chain timing system, four valves per cylinder
Maserati’s best-selling luxury sedan, the Ghibli, now comes with discreet refinements to the ultimate detail in a MY19 (Model Year 2019) version, which Naza Italia, the official importer and distributor for Maserati, has announced is available for booking in Malaysia.
The Ghibli makes a bold statement and elegantly delivers a smooth, lavish ride with razor-sharp coupé-like handling. A symbol of high-powered luxury that’s imbued with Maserati’s racing DNA, the Ghibli embodies the marque’s competitive spirit and maintains the tradition of empowering performance.
The latest incarnation of this model presents subtle style enhancements, new colour options, alloy wheels, full-grain Pieno Fiore natural leather with new veneers and a redesigned gearshift lever with shorter travel and improved operation. Adaptive Full LED Matrix headlights are standard for all model range. Maserati’s eye-catching Nerissimo styling package has been updated and made available for the MY19 Ghibli.
Dato’ Samson Anand George, Group CEO, Automotive Group, Naza Corporation Holdings Sdn Bhd, said, “The Malaysian market will see the complete range for this model, which includes the Ghibli, Ghibli GranSport, Ghibli GranLusso, Ghibli S, Ghibli S GranSport and Ghibli S GranLusso. The highly popular Ghibli range offers gorgeous looks, top-quality performance, a comfortable driving experience and even greater refinement.”
The Ghibli enters the Malaysian market at the starting price of RM 618,800.00 (inclusive of local taxes and duties) for the standard model, whilst the Ghibli GranSport and GrandLusso are priced at RM 668,800.00. The Ghibli S is priced at RM 718,800 and the Ghibi S GranSport and GranLusso at RM 768,800.00. All models include 5 years Standard Warranty coverage with no mileage restriction plus a Free maintenance program of 5 years/ 100,000 km whichever comes first (Inclusive of *Maserati Premium Service Plus of 3 Years /60,000KM).
For the FULL press release and more details of the 2019 Maserati Ghibli. click to download this: Maserati Ghibli MY19
BMW Group Malaysia “charges” forward in the new year as the leading e-mobility provider in the country, unveiling six New BMW i Charging Facilities at Bangsar Shopping Centre.
Harald Hoelzl, Managing Director at BMW Group Malaysia (above) said, “2018 was a remarkable year for the BMW Group globally and we reflected this here with another year of record-breaking business performances for the eighth consecutive year with 14,338 vehicles delivered, a segment-leading growth of 13%. This reinforces Malaysia’s position as a key market in the region for the BMW Group and we are truly humbled with this achievement.”
Hoelzl added that BMW Malaysia’s portfolio of Visionary Mobility vehicles accounted for over 57% of deliveries last year with over 7,500 Plug-in Hybrid variants of BMW and MINI vehicles making their way to homes across Malaysia in 2018.
“As the country’s leading provider of premium electrified vehicles, we are constantly driving initiatives for innovation, local assembly capabilities, awareness on new and clean technology for the automotive industry as well as helping develop the infrastructure for electrified premium vehicles in the country. We began working on these initiatives with the Malaysian Green Technology Corporation (GreenTech Malaysia) as early as 2015 and we have also developed projects on our own with our network of dealerships across the country.” said Hoelzl.
BMW Malaysia unveiled six New BMW i Charging Facilities at Bangsar Shopping Centre (above), marking another important step in its industry-leading efforts in fostering the country’s shift to Electro-Mobility. This follows the introduction of new BMW i Charging Facilities at Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Melaka, The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat in Ipoh, the Iconic Hotel in Penang as well as at WEIL Hotel in Ipoh last year.
BMW Group Malaysia’s portfolio of Visionary Mobility with the BMW iPerformance vehicles are also supported by the ChargEV platform through its partnership with GreenTech Malaysia. The BMW ChargeNow Service, which is offered as part of the BMW 360° ELECTRIC programme provides straightforward access to partner charging facilities like ChargEV, where customers can enjoy 24/7 support and access to all charging locations in ChargEV’s growing network nationwide.