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FEATURE: Why The New X70 SUV Is The BEST Proton Yet!

“Others (carmakers) can afford to fail, Proton can’t afford to fail” said the Proton rep in all sincerity, during one of the many conversations we had during the official media drive of the new X70 SUV. Most of it was light-hearted banter, but there was always an underlying seriousness as to just how important this first vehicle from the Proton / Geely alliance is to everyone involved…

“We’ve had too many chances, and we’ve let too many down in the past, we can’t afford to do that anymore”. These are serious words indeed. Truth be told, I am one of the many of whom Proton has let down in the past, having owned my fair share of Proton cars over the years – eight at last count – and having even been part of a select few summoned by the (then) CEO of Proton many moons ago to meet with his production team and vendors to tell them exactly what was wrong with the (then) new Waja.

So this X70 media drive was something I’d been looking forward to for a very long time. Yes, it was overdue, normally the media test drive is done before the official launch so that our stories, articles, reviews, videos, etc. can appear just after the public launch, but I wasn’t complaining, because to me, this wasn’t the test of a car per se, it was a test of an entire carmaker, and that was worth waiting for.

So there it is folks, the latest from Proton. Based on the comments being posted below the videos it’s quite apparent that many really like the new X70, and bookings have apparently surpassed 16,000 already. I’m looking forward to the individual test drives that will be happening in the near future, so stay tuned as we delve even deeper into why this is the best Proton ever. – Chris Wee.

2019 Toyota CH-R Now Available With TRD Aerokit!

The Toyota C-HR goes into its second year in the Malaysian market with cosmetic updates to enhance its already audacious looks as well as an optional Aerokit developed by TRD exclusively for the compact crossover model. UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd has sold over 4000 units in 2018 and is confident that this new updates will be well accepted by its customers.

To differentiate the 2019 model, the latest C-HR gets a new design for the 17-inch lightweight alloy rims. The bolder dual-tone design has been specially chosen to match the captivating looks of the vehicle which has appealed to trendsetters and enthusiasts alike.

New garnish strips on the front and rear bumpers, and the addition of body mouldings along the sides highlight the emotive surfacing of the body exterior, complementing the Keen Look Identity. These add to the personality of the C-HR which has a strong presence in the growing compact crossover segment.

For those who want even sportier looks, there’s an optional TRD Aerokit which has been developed by Toyota’s high-performance division. The Aerokit adds extensions to the front and rear bumpers which have a metallic finish and overfenders around the wheel arches give a more muscular look.

The TRD Aerokit is manufactured to Toyota’s high standards, just like the rest of the vehicle which is imported in CBU (completely built-up) form from Toyota’s regional production hub for the C-HR in Thailand. Installation is done by professionals at UMW Toyota Motor’s own facility and the parts are also covered by a warranty.

Customers have a choice of 6 fashionable exterior colours with Radiant Green Metallic being a new addition for 2019. The other 5 colours are Metal Stream Metallic, White Pearl, Blue Metallic, Attitude Black and Red Mica. To accentuate its stand-out style, the vehicles in Blue Metallic, Radiant Green Metallic and Red Mica comes with a black roof.

Inside, the cabin retains its ‘diamond’ architectural theme with high quality and attention to detail throughout, underlining the unique value of the C-HR. For an improved user experience, the infotainment system has been upgraded with a new one that has a 6.75-inch display touchscreen as well as Apple Carplay^TM and Android Auto^TM Connectivity. This means that most of the apps on compatible smartphones can also be accessed from the display screen which has a simpler interface for easier and more intuitive navigation. Voice Recognition also makes it easier for certain operations, allowing the driver to keep his hands on the steering wheel.

The C-HR is powered by a Toyota 2ZR-FBE petrol engine with a 1.8-litre displacement, producing maximum power of 140 ps and maximum torque of 171 Nm. A Super ECT 7-speed automatic transmission with Shiftmatic provides optimal balance between performance and fuel efficiency. The driver can also choose from three Driving Modes – ECO, NORMAL and SPORT.

As with the other new Toyota models, the C-HR sits on Toyota’s New Global Architecture (TNGA), a platform which structurally transforms automobile design. The TNGA-based platform made it possible for the engineers to meet the company’s aim of offering ever-better cars, with no compromise in design or driving performance.

TNGA also contributes to raising the protection for the occupants, supported by the advanced performance of the functions and safety systems in the C-HR. These include Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRC), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Blind Spot Monitoring system, Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) and even a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System.

All authorised Toyota outlets in Malaysia are accepting orders from 16^th January onwards. The 2019 Toyota C-HR has no change in retail prices that start from RM150,000 for private registration. Deliveries are scheduled to commence in February.

Further information on the C-HR and other Toyota models can be found at toyota.com.my or any authorised dealer.

VIDEO: 2019 Proton X70 – Official Media Drive @ Langkawi: Part 2!

Here’s the second video from the first day of the Proton X70 official media drive. A static-display was set up against the backdrop of Pantai Cenang, Langkawi, and I just had to do a quick walkabout. Stay tuned for more to come from the drive happening soon! – Chris Wee.

VIDEO: 2019 Proton X70 – Official Media Drive @ Langkawi: Part 1!

That’s right folks Piston.my has arrived safely at the venue of the much-anticipated ‘official’ media drive of the new Proton X70 SUV in Langkawi. I know many of you may be asking why of all places, Langkawi? Well, for one thing traffic away from town is pretty sparse, and the B-roads here are quite awesome, based on previous media drives that have been conducted on this island. Plus I’m not complaining, not with views like this….

But let’s not get ahead of ourselves, we’d just landed and instead of the usual express bus to ferry us to the hotel, Proton had arranged a fleet of X70’s replete with white-gloved chauffeurs to handle this task, which meant I got to shoot a very quick video from the back seat, and talk to the X70 for the first time! Here it is…

Stay tuned for more to come! – Chris Wee.

BMW Malaysia Introduces The Exclusive BMW M Performance Editions + CNY 2019 Promo!

BMW Malaysia recently introduced the BMW 330e M Performance Edition and BMW X5 xDrive40e M Performance Edition, each equipped with BMW M Performance Accessories to offer avid BMW motorsports enthusiasts the ultimate driving pleasure. Only 300 units are offered for each of these exclusive BMW M Performance Editions.

Harald Hoelzl, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia (below) said, “We are constantly looking for ways to add to the exclusivity of our premium vehicles while maintaining the unparalleled driving dynamics and performance of the BMW brand. By carefully selecting two highly collectible models and offering them with our motorsports-inspired BMW M Performance parts, we are proud to have crafted a unique on-road motorsports experience for our customers. Through perfect dynamics and captivating visual features, they can now enjoy the best of both worlds and experience BMW’s motorsports DNA come to live while on the road.”

Drawing from BMW’s extensive skills and experience in motorsports, the BMW M Performance Accessories are built with the same passion and craftsmanship as with the iconic BMW M models. With the M Performance aerodynamic kit seamlessly blended into the best-selling premium Plug-in Hybrid Electric models, the BMW M Performance Editions of the BMW 330e and BMW X5 xDrive40e have been transformed with an athletic edge, combining the best of BMW driving dynamics with benchmark performance and efficiency.

The BMW 330e M Performance Edition.

The now enhanced BMW 3 Series Hybrid with eDrive Technology comes with sportier aerodynamics and aesthetics, which include M Performance side skirts, side sill foils, and front grilles in high-gloss black, as well as the lightweight M Performance Carbon mirror caps for the side mirrors. The vehicle features a front attachment in Matt Black, a rear spoiler and a rear diffuser, in addition to the aggressive M Performance dark tail lights that round up the dynamic look. The interior meanwhile features M Performance stainless steel pedals and footrests. The exterior colour offerings for the BMW 330e M Performance Edition include Sunset Orange, Black Sapphire, Estoril Blue or Alpine White; while the interior is furnished with Black Dakota Leather.

The retail price (on the road, without insurance) for the BMW 330e M Performance Edition is RM 258,800.00. With the Easy Drive Programme from BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia, the BMW 330e M Performance Edition can also be owned with monthly instalment plans starting from RM 3,278.00 (based on estimates of an 80% loan on a four-year tenure, with a mileage capped at 20,000km per year).

The BMW X5 xDrive40e M Performance Edition.

The exclusive BMW X5 xDrive40e M Performance Edition is also equipped with M Performance side skirts, side sill foils, and front grilles in high-gloss black, along with M Performance Carbon mirror caps for the side mirrors. Both ends of the vehicle are framed with a Carbon front attachment and a rear spoiler in high-gloss black and Carbon rear diffuser. The stainless steel pedals add a striking motorsports feel to the interior. The BMW X5 xDrive40e M Performance Edition comes in Carbon Black, Mineral White or Space Grey. All exterior colour offerings are paired with Black Dakota Leather, whereas Carbon Black offers an additional option of Terra Dakota Leather.

The retail price (on the road, without insurance) for the BMW X5 xDrive40e M Performance Edition is RM 390,800.00. With the Easy Drive Programme from BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia, the BMW X5 xDrive40e M Performance Edition can also be owned with monthly instalment plans starting from RM 4,878.00 (based on estimates of an 80% loan on a four-year tenure, with a mileage capped at 20,000km per year).

Complete Premium Ownership Experience.

New owners of the BMW M Performance Editions can also experience the complete BMW Group Malaysia Premium Ownership experience which includes:

BMW 5-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Scheduled Service Program
BMW 2-Year/ 24 Month Tyre Warranty Program for its Run Flat Tyre offering and services
BMW Roadside Assistance and Accident Hotline
The BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile App – BMW White Card
BMW Service Online

Customers may view, enquire or place orders for the limited BMW M Performance Editions at any nearby BMW dealership.

CNY@BMW

Celebrate this Chinese New Year at BMW with attractive promotions, rebates and competitive financing solutions starting from 0.88% across a wide range of BMW models, at all authorised BMW dealerships. New owners of the BMW 530e, BMW 740Le and BMW X5 xDrive40e will receive a complimentary BMW i Wallbox Plus and BMW i AC Fast Charging Cable at no additional cost*, through the BMW i Wallbox Promotion.

With any purchase of BMW Plug-In Hybrid vehicles, new owners can also take advantage of the BMW ChargeNow Promotion which offers a complimentary BMW i AC Fast Charging Cable and BMW ChargeNow card. In collaboration with GreenTech Malaysia, the BMW ChargeNow card offers owners unlimited, complimentary access to the ChargeNow mobility services via the ChargEV platform for an entire year. The CNY@BMW campaign ends on 31^st March 2019.

* The promotion excludes installation costs of the BMW i Wallbox.

BMW 318i Luxury, BMW 530i M Sport, BMW 630i GT and the BMW X1 sDrive 20i Sport

Just in time for the New Year of the Earth Boar, BMW Malaysia also took the opportunity to announce the new pricing of the BMW 318i Luxury, the BMW 530i M Sport, the BMW 630i GT and the BMW X1 sDrive 20i Sport. The BMW X1 sDrive 20i also receives new designed wheels in the form of 18” Y Spoke Style 566 Alloy Wheels as well as a new Exterior Trim and Roof Rails in Satinated Aluminum.

The new retail price (on the road, without insurance) for the BMW vehicles are as below.

BMW 318i Luxury RM198, 800.00

BMW 530i M Sport RM 372,800.00

BMW 630i GT RM 430, 800.00

BMW X1 sDrive 20i Sport RM 220, 800.00

Volkswagen Alor Setar Upgrades 4S Centre With Addition Of Body & Paint Workshop

Volkswagen Alor Setar, operated by Lee Motors Autohaus Sdn Bhd has upgraded their dealership from a 3S centre to a 4S centre with the addition of a Body & Paint facility. This brings the total of Volkswagen 4S centres in the country to 10.

Volkswagen Alor Setar is a one-stop centre that spreads over three floors. Spanning over 35,352 square feet, the showroom is located on the ground floor, aftersales service on the second floor and the latest addition of Body & Paint on the third floor. The outlet is strategically located at Aman Central which is the main business hub for the state of Kedah.

The new Body & Paint workshop offers services such as accident repair, paint touch-up and respray, panel knocking recovery, chassis alignment and paint mixing. The facilities available are a spray booth, two preparation bays, a polishing and finishing bay, as well as a two-post hoist bay. A Car-0-Liner alignment bay is available and manned by trained professional panel beater and painters. Volkswagen Alor Setar also uses one of the world’s best water-based paints – Cromax Pro Waterbase, at its new Body & Paint workshop.

Additionally, the 4S outlet is equipped with cargo lifts, diagnostics tools as approved by Volkswagen Germany as well as a special CCTV system where customers can watch their cars being serviced from the comfort of the customer lounge.

Eugene Lee, Director and Dealer Principal of Lee Motors Autohaus said that Lee Motors is fully committed to serving customers with the best service offers and convenience. “Our goal is to serve as a one-stop centre for all things Volkswagen in the region, and to continue building trust amongst our customers and enhance the overall ownership experience.”

Erik Winter, Managing Director Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (above) also congratulated Lee Motors on the upgrade. “Lee Motors have been part of our dealer network for 5 years, and we commend them on their commitment to ensure that high quality and standards are met for our customers. Together with our other dealer partners, we will continue to uphold our Volkswagen Cares promise to increase the joy of ownership of our owners.”

Volkswagen Alor Setar 4S Centre operates from Sunday to Friday from 9:00am to 6:00pm and is closed on Saturdays and on public holidays. Working hours are applicable to sales, service and body & paint.

For more information, please visit an authorized Volkswagen dealership or go to www.volkswagen.com.my

Piston.my

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FEATURE: Why The New X70 SUV Is The BEST Proton Yet!

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VIDEO: 2019 Proton X70 – Official Media Drive @ Langkawi: Part 2!

VIDEO: 2019 Proton X70 – Official Media Drive @ Langkawi: Part 1!

BMW Malaysia Introduces The Exclusive BMW M Performance Editions + CNY 2019 Promo!

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