The 13th Annual Art Of Speed (AOS 2024) took place at the Malaysia Agro Exposition Park, Serdang (MAEPS) from July 27-28, 2024. Known for its tradition of attracting international guests and showcasing customised vehicles from around the globe, this year’s event continued to highlight the best in automotive culture and customisation.
Among the distinguished guests were Shige Suganuma, Shinotsuka “NATQQ” Michihisa, and Hey Murakamii from MOONEYES, Japan; professional Japanese drifter Daigo Saito from Fat Five Racing; and Katie’s Customs from Japan, featuring a custom Vincent Black Shadow motorcycle. Other notable attendees included STOOP Motorcycles with a custom Harley-Davidson Panhead, EVILACT with a custom 1947 Harley-Davidson Knucklehead EL, and Nigel Petrie from Engineered To Slide, Australia. From Thailand, Spinny and Little Boy Cycles were recognised, while global figures such as Dino Dalle Carbonare and Alexander Iain from Speedhunters.com were also present.
The smart Tour Brand Roadshow is expanding its tour with a new location at Bangsar Shopping Centre from 31 July to 4 August 2024. This is a great chance to experience the smart #1 and #3 vehicles, including their advanced features like V2L capabilities and the Hello smart app functions. With Brabus Fever specials offering up to RM30,000 off the smart #1 Brabus, it’s a perfect opportunity for enthusiasts to explore these all-electric models.
Here’s the full schedule:
Bangsar Shopping Centre: 31 July – 4 August 2024
Gurney Plaza, Penang: 4 – 8 September 2024
Mid Valley South Key, Johor Bahru: 19 – 22 September 2024
Porsche is set to revolutionise its Cayenne SUV with the introduction of an all-electric model in its fourth generation. This move aligns with Porsche’s vision of blending exceptional performance with cutting-edge technology while maintaining its commitment to providing powerful hybrid and combustion engine options.
All-Electric Fourth Generation: The upcoming Cayenne will mark Porsche’s foray into all-electric SUVs, leveraging the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) with an 800-volt architecture. This advanced platform supports high-voltage systems and next-generation powertrains and chassis technologies, setting the stage for Porsche’s electric ambitions.
Japan’s Mitsubishi Motors is set to join the alliance between Honda and Nissan, forming a powerful partnership among the automakers, with combined sales exceeding 8 million vehicles, according to reports.
Strategic Partnership
Standardisation of Software: The collaboration will focus on standardising in-vehicle software that controls various car functions.
Current Alliances:
Mitsubishi Motors is already part of an alliance with Nissan and France’s Renault. This alliance was restructured last year to become more pragmatic and agile.
Nissan and Honda announced in March that they were considering a strategic partnership to collaborate on producing EV components and AI in automotive software platforms.
Continental Tyre, has long been synonymous with innovation, quality, and reliability. With a rich history spanning over 150 years, Continental has consistently pushed the boundaries of tyre design and engineering, setting new standards in performance and safety.
Over the decades, the company has been at the forefront of numerous technological advancements in the tyre industry. From the introduction of the first patterned tyre tread in 1904 to the development of the first environmentally friendly tyres in the 1990s, Continental has continually strived to push the envelope. This commitment to innovation is evident in their latest product, the MaxContact MC7, which promises to elevate the driving experience to new heights.
The MaxContact MC7 is a sporty tyre designed to enhance everyday driving with maximum control, dynamic steering precision, shorter braking distances in both wet and dry conditions, and offers low noise levels. We were given the opportunity to see and feel the performance of the MC7 in a day of rigorous testing at Sepang Circuit, comparing it to an unnamed competitor.
During our tests at Sepang, the MC7 was put through its paces in a series of demanding scenarios, including wet braking tests, timed slalom tests, and high-speed cornering. The results were impressive, showcasing the tyre’s ability to provide superior grip, handling, and braking performance.
One of the most critical aspects of tyre performance is braking capability, and the MC7 does not disappoint. In our wet braking tests, the MC7 demonstrated a impressive ability to stop quickly and safely, thanks to its advanced 3D laser-cut sipes and ReFlex Compound. These features work together to improve grip and reduce braking distances significantly. When compared to its competitor, the MC7 outperformed by a considerable margin, with a braking distance that was 7-8 meters shorter.
Handling and cornering are equally important for a sporty tyre, and the MC7 excels in these areas as well. During our high-speed cornering tests, the MC7 provided exceptional stability and control, allowing us to navigate sharp turns with confidence. This performance is attributed to the tyre’s dynamic steering response and precision, enabled by the macro-blocks and stabiliser bars that enhance cornering stability and maintain firm handling under pressure.
The slalom test is a challenging evaluation of a tyre’s agility and responsiveness. Each participant had two runs, one with the MC7 and one with the competitor. As expected, the MC7 delivered better grip and handling performance, allowing us to achieve faster times throughout the course. The ReFlex Compound plays a significant role in this, as it is specifically formulated to maximise traction and deliver improved steering precision. Additionally, the MC7’s lightning sipes, star sipes, and aqua sipes—featuring 3D laser cuts—further enhance its ability to handle water and maintain grip.
While sporty tyres often prioritise performance over comfort, the MC7 manages to strike a balance between the two. One of the standout features of the MC7 is its low noise levels, achieved through the innovative two-in-one Noise Breaker 3.0. This technology works by breaking up sound waves, resulting in a quieter and more comfortable ride. The ability to reduce noise without compromising performance is a significant achievement for Continental, making the MC7 an excellent choice for drivers who want both sporty performance and a comfortable driving experience.
In addition to its performance benefits, the MC7 also offers improvements in fuel efficiency and mileage. The advanced materials and design features of the MC7 contribute to lower rolling resistance, which in turn enhances fuel efficiency. During our tests, we observed a noticeable reduction in fuel consumption compared to the MC6 and the competitor tyre. This improvement not only saves money on fuel but also reduces the environmental impact, aligning with Continental’s commitment to sustainability.
The MC7’s wet performance is particularly noteworthy, thanks to the innovative design of its aqua sipes. These enlarged grooves are designed to trap and expel water efficiently, enhancing the tyre’s grip on wet surfaces. The combination of aqua sipes and the Flow X-celerator’s narrow groove accelerates water flow, ensuring optimal performance in wet conditions. This feature is especially important for drivers in regions with frequent rain, providing them with the confidence to drive safely in adverse weather conditions.
To cater to a wide range of vehicles and driving needs, the MaxContact MC7 is available in sizes ranging from 16” to 21”. This versatility allows it to target a broader market, from compact cars to larger sedans and SUVs. The availability of multiple sizes ensures that more drivers can experience the benefits of the MC7, making it a compelling choice for a diverse array of vehicles.
The Continental MaxContact MC7 is a tyre that sets new standards in performance, safety, and comfort. Through our rigorous testing at the Sepang Circuit, the MC7 proved its capabilities in wet and dry braking, handling, cornering, noise reduction, and fuel efficiency. Its advanced features, including the ReFlex Compound, 3D laser-cut sipes, and Noise Breaker 3.0, showcase Continental’s commitment to innovation and excellence.
Continental Tyres has once again demonstrated why they are a leader in the industry, and the MaxContact MC7 is a testament to their dedication to pushing the boundaries of tyre technology. As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, we can expect Continental to remain at the forefront, driving innovation and setting new benchmarks for performance and safety.
Lexus has arguably come to define the essence of Japanese automotive luxury. Though there are others such as Infiniti and Acura, but after all these years, one could argue that these brands have been relegated to the status of bystanders as Lexus reaches for the sky.
Through decades of obsession for the finer things in the automotive world, Lexus has carved out a niche for itself. The Japanese marque has become synonymous with refinement, quality and reliability. In fact, it is said that one is better off buying a Lexus than some of its German counterparts.
And we agree, to an extent.
Sadly, Malaysians are still obsessed with brands and badges, and many would still buy a continental car that offered lesser for a lot more money just for the badge on the bonnet and on the boot.
The Lexus NX and RX are among the most popular in the Malaysian line-up, as well as the UX, which is the smallest model. However, the UX has been discontinued and has since been replaced by the LBX.
The Lexus Breakthrough Crossover, which is what LBX stands for, is slightly smaller than the UX. But it hides its size rather well because you really won’t be able to tell until you step inside.
There is no denying that the LBX is a great looking car. And it is only the second car in Lexus’ history to have three alphabets in its name, the first being the legendary LFA. Yes, that same LFA whose exhausts can shatter glass at full flight, in a lab at least.
Lexus says the fact that the LBX also has three characters in its name, means that it is a big deal for the company. It is an important model that wants to attract a younger audience to the brand.
I agree that the LBX is unlike any other Lexus, particularly in size. But I am also a little disappointed with it, and I am a huge self-proclaimed fan of Lexus and everything that the company stands for.
But before we get to that, let’s start off on a high note first. The design, as mentioned, is one of its biggest strengths. It showcases the next chapter in the Lexus design language, and you see that with the total omission of the Lexus spindle grille.
That iconic grille which was first introduced about a decade ago has morphed into the body of the car, and Lexus now calls it the spindle body. However, that’s only true for the NX and the RX.
In a seven-page product description, Lexus says the LBX has a new frontal arrangement that ‘breaks’ the spindle grille. Instead, the spindle grille has been deconstructed, giving the LBX an all-new frontal identity.
The grille, though still very much recognisable, now has a narrow silver aperture that runs beneath the edge of the bonnet and connects the two slim LED bi-functional headlights.
This design may seem basic and unassuming, but with all things Lexus, it all has a purpose. The design draws on the heritage of the brand’s ‘Resolute Look’, which was first seen in the LF-S concept car of 2003, and later became a signature style of Lexus production models of the early 2000s. So, consider that humble silver line a ‘throwback’ of sorts.
From the side, you will notice that the car sits rather tall but has short front and rear overhangs. This makes the 18-inch wheels seem bigger than they actually are and gives the car a muscular stance. And if you are wondering why Lexus chose to use the word Crossover in its name (denoted by the X in LBX), the side profile is the answer to that.
The rear has an LED light strip that looks like it has been inspired by the Aston Martin DBX. But Lexus says the rear was inspired by a traditional Japanese rice cake called Kagami-Mochi.
Offered during the New Year, the rice cake is made of two discs – a small one set on top of a larger one. So how is this relevant to the LBX? Well, the rear of the car has a balance of shapes that is reflected in the car’s compact cabin positioned above a powerful underbody, like the two discs of the rice cake.
Whether you see the resemblance or not, the rear of the LBX is simple and elegant.
The LBX rides on the same platform as the Toyota Yaris and Yaris Cross, so from that alone you should be able to make out its overall size.
The interior is a different ball game altogether. It is still very much in line with the general Lexus design direction, but taller drivers and those who have high expectations of the brand may be left disappointed.
But as mentioned at the beginning, we will focus on the highs for now. The quality of the interior is again typically Lexus, and everything feels well-built and you can feel that a lot of thought has gone in to ensure the interior feels and looks good.
Lexus’s unique Tazuna concept is also carried on with the interior of the LBX. The Japanese word translates to ‘reins of a horse’, and that is what Lexus envisions the driver’s area to be. Just as how riding a horse needs minute adjustments to the reins, and so driving a car requires fine adjustments as well. And that is why the car’s controls such as the gear lever, meter panel, infotainment screen and digital meter panel are no more than a short stretch or a glance away.
The LBX is also the first Lexus to have its infotainment screen mounted vertically, and the 9.8-inch screen offers intuitive controls together with features like wireless Carplay and Android Auto.
The electronically operated gear lever is the same as the one in the RX and you will notice some shared buttons as well.
The top-of-the-line Luxury variant also gets a few features that are unique to it such as a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument display while the Premium version makes do with a seven-inch display.
The sound system is different too, while the Premium variant makes do with a six-speaker sound system, the Luxury variant gets a 13-speaker Mark Levinson sound system.
But besides that, the two variants offer a well-built interior with Tsuyasumi charcoal trim ornamentation around the cabin.
The seats are brilliant too but lack proper thigh support, which taller drivers might find uncomfortable, just as I did on a drive to Janda Baik.
Then there is the way it drives, and this is where the high notes end. Lexus says the LBX is meant to appeal to a younger audience, having been young once and now sitting at the fine line between young and not so young, I can vividly remember being impressed with cars that had well over 200hp.
The LBX is powered by a 1.5-litre, three-cylinder hybrid engine making 136hp and 185Nm of torque, all of which is transferred to the wheels via a CVT transmission. Those figures are hardly impressive especially for that price range because at between RM240,000 to RM270,000, the LBX can count the likes of the BMW 3-Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class and the likes of that as direct competitors.
I am aware that the retail price of the two Germans is higher, but there are also some dealer discounts which will let you have a BMW 330i at around the same price as the top-of-the-line LBX.
But though the power figures are far from impressive, its efficiency levels are extraordinary. We saw a fuel consumption figure of close to 28km per litre during our drive, and that means the LBX has a theoretical range of about 1000km. It would be difficult to achieve that, but even if you can reach 800km, that by itself is quite a feat already.
And that has made me wonder whether Lexus has got its target market all wrong. While youngsters are wild blooded and would like a grand mix of power and extravagant design, the elderly particularly those whose young have left the nest and are left by themselves might just appreciate the LBX.
Its size may be small, and youngsters may not like how cramped the rear seats are, and those with a young family may not appreciate the lack of rear air-conditioning vents. But retirees would rarely use the rear seats, and they would like how manageable the size of the car is. It just makes parking and negotiating traffic a breeze, which I hear is an important consideration among my elders.
It is also a comfortable car to drive, with the suspension doing a fantastic job at detaching the cabin from the road underneath, resulting in refinement levels that Lexus is so well known for. And that is something the young may not understand, but I am quite sure those above 50 would value.
Having said that, there are a lot of things about the LBX I like, particularly the quality, refinement and the design. But it is not a cheap car, which is normal for Lexus, but not one of this size. And there in lays the problem for Lexus, rich parents looking to buy a car for their children may think that a more glamorous badge such as BMW or a Mercedes-Benz may help the social standing of their kids. And that is why I truly believe that Lexus should instead focus on those with a fat bank account and don’t care about power, that segment may just appreciate everything the LBX has to offer. I know I would, but I still believe I am young.
