Rolls-Royce has unveiled a special edition of the Phantom called “Phantom Inspired by Cinque Terre,” drawing inspiration from the Italian Riviera and its wines. This distinctive Phantom features a Ligurian blue exterior with Navy Blue and Jasmine double coachlines, adorned with clusters of grapes on the vehicle’s sides.
Inside, the interior showcases a combination of Grace White and Navy Blue leather with Jasmine trim, mirroring the theme of winemaking. The grape motif is intricately embroidered on the rear doors, demanding 9,215 stitches for each cluster. It is also carefully inlaid on the tray tables, which integrate stainless steel and gold plating. The custom Starlight headliner displays an embroidered map of Italy, crafted with an impressive 14,338 individual stitches.
In 2023, Honda celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Honda Civic, a significant milestone for the brand. Additionally, it marked 25 years since the introduction of Honda’s iconic high-performance Type R model, which had made a lasting impact on enthusiasts and the automotive market.
To commemorate this special year, Honda introduced the new Civic Type R in September 2022. This latest iteration was unveiled as the most powerful Type R model ever produced, showcasing Honda’s dedication to performance and innovation.
Honda Malaysia has finally introduced the new Type R into the Malaysian market. Building on the foundation of the 11th generation Civic hatchback, the new Civic Type R represented a significant leap forward. It incorporated advanced technologies inspired by motorsport, enabling it to surpass the performance capabilities of even the stripped-down, lightweight versions of the previous model.
The exterior design of the new FL5 Civic Type R emphasizes unity and simplicity, showcasing uncluttered details on the front and rear bumpers. Integrated design features, like the rear doors and arches, have been specifically developed for the Type R, not only enhancing the aesthetics but also providing improved aerodynamic benefits.
The Type R’s design is optimised for aerodynamics, enhancing performance. The large lower grille, with a larger fan behind it, effectively channels airflow to the engine. This design is complemented by a subtle bonnet featuring a vent to further enhance airflow around the front end.
In addition, strategic design elements contribute to superior aerodynamics. Large aperture vents positioned behind the front wheels and a larger rear diffuser, seamlessly integrated into the under-floor and coordinated with the bodywork above, all play a role in maximising the aerodynamic efficiency of the car.
The Pilot Sport 4S tyres for the Type R were created by Honda and Michelin in partnership and have a 265/30 profile, making them 20 mm wider than earlier models. The “reverse rim” design of the 19-inch wheels these tyres are attached to efficiently reduce deformation on the inside of the wheel and improve the stability of the tyre contact patch, especially while under load.
This set of wheels and tyres results in a 12.7mm larger rear track and a front track that is 25mm wider. The new model’s body is 20mm longer and 15mm wider when the FL hatchback base and Type R-specific external design components are combined.
The Civic Type R flaunts a bold rear spoiler design, not only enhancing downforce but also minimizing air resistance due to its rearward angulation. The spoiler is mounted lower and wider compared to the previous model, providing a sleeker roofline and a broader stance. Reinforced by new aluminium die-cast mounts, this rear wing is a notable aerodynamic feature.
Beneath the vented aluminium bonnet lies a potent version of Honda’s K20C1 engine. Key performance metrics like horsepower, torque, and responsiveness have been elevated through a redesigned turbocharger, heightened air intake flow rate, and an upgraded exhaust system boasting a straight-through design and an active exhaust valve. Optimisations in the turbocharger’s turbine wheel blades, size, shape, and intake charge flow path enable efficient pressure generation in a broader range. These enhancements collectively contribute to an impressive powertrain.
A considerable update has been made to the turbocharged 2-litre 4-cylinder DOHC VTEC engine, which now produces an astounding 319PS at 6,500 rpm and a hefty 420Nm between 2,600 and 4,000 rpm. The Type R is now firmly established as one of the most powerful cars in its class thanks to this improvement.
A crisp and exciting 6-speed manual gearbox is included with the Type R. It should be noted that this gearbox has been improved, with a lighter flywheel and a new rev-match mechanism. The rev-matching technology, which is beautifully timed with downshifts, aids in corner entrance stability.
Hyper-precise gear changes are made possible by the gearbox’s fortification with high-strength parts, such as a high-rigidity lever and an improved shift gate layout. A typical helical-type limited-slip differential also effectively transmits the engine’s power to the road, improving overall performance.
The Type R provides a dynamic driving experience through selectable performance modes that allow the driver to tailor the car’s behaviour according to their preferences. These modes encompass engine, steering, suspension, and engine sound settings. The available pre-set modes include Comfort, Sport, and +R. In addition to these, a new ‘Individual Mode’ has been introduced, granting the driver the ability to customise various driving parameters to achieve a personalised and optimal driving experience.
The cabin is aesthetically pleasing and has been built with performance in mind. Along with the recognisable red seats, carpet, and trim, it also has a newly designed aluminium shift knob and a serialised Type R plate on the dashboard as distinguishing elements.
The cockpit was designed with performance driving in mind, and it has a new digital instrument cluster with crisp, easy-to-read visuals and a variety of display settings. It is notable for having a large tachometer, a display for the gear position, and a multi-information display.
The engine rpm and gear position are put at the top of a second new metre that is only available in Type R’s +R mode, giving the driver immediate access to the information they need. During performance driving, an illuminated rev indicator with a racing theme is situated above the gauge cluster to offer the driver a rapid indication of engine rpm.
A new 9-inch Colour Touchscreen, the biggest touchscreen ever in a Type R, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, is just one example of how technology has been thoughtfully incorporated into the redesigned cabin with an emphasis on the driver.
Additionally standard are a Bose Centrepoint premium sound system that was specifically designed for the Civic’s interior and wireless charging that is Qi compliant.
A newly improved Honda LogR Performance Datalogger that is exclusive to the Type R combines the onboard computer and sensors of the car with a new built-in vehicle app, eliminating the need for a smartphone. When driving on a track or other closed courses, this aids drivers in monitoring and recording a number of performance metrics in real-time.
Because to the narrower pillars, repositioned side mirrors, and lower bonnet, the driver is seated more comfortably and with better visibility than before in a new, lighter, body-stabilizing performance seat. On the track and during extended journeys, the front sports seats’ lightweight, firmly bolstered design and suede-effect material provide great support and comfort.
The most powerful car sold by Honda Malaysia is priced at RM399,900 and for 2023, there will only be 19 units available for booking. The Type R will only come in Championship White and the lucky 19 Type R owners for 2023 will be announced by Honda Malaysia.
The Novitec N-Largo S is a limited-edition widebody version created by German automotive refinement specialist Novitec for the Ferrari 812 Superfast. Limited to just three vehicles worldwide, this special edition has already been completely sold out.
Exterior Enhancements
The N-Largo S features a widened body, achieved through lightweight yet durable carbon-fibre components. The wider front fenders and flares at the rear axle add 14cm to the car’s width compared to the standard Ferrari 812 Superfast, enhancing its aerodynamics and visual appeal. The rear end is redesigned with an integrated rear spoiler in a striking and aerodynamically efficient ducktail design.
Porsche announced the expansion of its hybrid range for the new Cayenne luxury SUV series. The introduction of the Cayenne S E-Hybrid marks the third plug-in model in the series and is positioned between the Cayenne E-Hybrid and the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid.
Key Features and Performance
The Cayenne S E-Hybrid, positioned between the Cayenne E-Hybrid and the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid, prioritizes a harmonious mix of everyday usability and performance. This electrified model, available in both SUV and SUV Coupé body variants, integrates seamlessly into the existing powertrain range. With a revised three-litre V6 turbo engine delivering 353PS and a 176PS electric motor, the Cayenne S E-Hybrid achieves an impressive system output of 519PS and a maximum system torque of 750Nm.
The performance capabilities are substantial, allowing the Cayenne S E-Hybrid to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 4.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 263km/h. Notably, the hybrid technology enhancements result in an improved electric range and shorter charging times due to intelligent energy management.
The Mercedes-AMG GLC Coupé, a new addition to the successful midsize series by Mercedes-AMG, exemplifies a blend of dynamic and characteristic AMG features. This model, like its SUV counterpart, is a powerful and sporty offering, appealing to customers seeking a sporty lifestyle coupled with impressive performance.
Design and Aesthetics
The GLC Coupé boasts a sporty silhouette characterized by a flowing transition towards the rear, accentuating its width and creating an impression of dynamic movement. The design elements, such as the AMG-specific radiator trim, front apron, and precise side edges, underline the sporty proportions of the vehicle. Additionally, the powerful wheel arches and the wheel options ranging from 19 to 21 inches add to the confident appearance.
The interior of it is carefully designed to provide a sporty and luxurious atmosphere. Features like AMG seats in Artico man-made leather / Microcut AMG microfibre, the AMG Performance steering wheel, and illuminated door sills with AMG lettering contribute to the overall sporty aesthetic.
Performance and Drivetrain
The heart of the GLC Coupé is the AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, known as M139l, incorporating innovative technologies and high performance while maintaining efficiency. One notable feature is the electric exhaust gas turbocharger powered by a 48-volt on-board electrical system. This setup ensures a highly responsive engine across the speed range, leading to a more dynamic driving experience and improved efficiency.
Mini Malaysia has introduced the Mini Countryman Roof Art Edition, featuring a unique design by local artist Jared Lim, also known as ‘Professional Crayon’. The ‘Foliage’ design on the roof blends the essence of adventure with vibrant elements of Malaysian culture, resulting in a charming iteration of the Mini Countryman.
The artwork showcases the rich tapestry of Malaysian flowers, with the wings of the Mini logo gracefully emerging through waves and weaves of Malaysian flora. A hibiscus blossom represents the encounters and adventures that await on one’s journey. The design also encapsulates the Union Jack tail lights, a speedometer, and a compass, symbolising the adventurer’s relentless pursuit of new experiences.
Shell Malaysia, through its business mobility division, Shell Fleet Solutions, has launched its Accelerate to Zero (A2Z) Programme in Malaysia. The A2Z programme aims to assist fleet owners in optimising their operations, achieving sustainability goals, and navigating challenges such as supply chain disruptions, driver shortages, and the pressure to decarbonise.
The A2Z programme includes various integrated solutions:
Shell Card: A revamped Shell Card acts as the key to unlock all the solutions, enabling integration for a fleet’s day-to-day mobility expenses, including fuel, telematics, lubricants, and electric vehicle (EV) charging through the Shell network.
Shell Recharge: Shell’s EV charging ecosystem offers corporate fleets a comprehensive package of hardware, software services, and support solutions to meet specific EV infrastructure requirements. Customers can access Shell’s expanding network of charging points.
Shell Telematics: This solution combines integrated Shell Card data, ‘live’ vehicle tracking, vehicle performance monitoring, and more to provide corporate fleets with critical data and business intelligence to help them achieve greater sustainability.
Carbon Compensation: Fleet owners can opt to compensate for the carbon emissions from their fuel purchases through carbon credits generated by Shell projects.
The Nissan Concept 20-23 is a creative venture by a team, including young members of NDE (Nissan Design Europe), tasked with designing an enjoyable city car for London, where NDE has spent 20 years. The name “20-23” is a combination of NDE’s 20 years, the numbers 2 and 3, and the current year. It pays homage to Nissan’s playful tradition with hatchbacks and city cars, drawing from the legacy of Nissan’s Pike cars like Be-1, Pao, Figaro, and S-Cargo.
Alfonso Albaisa, Nissan’s Senior Vice President for global design, praised the Concept 20-23 for encapsulating fun, electric city driving inspired by the online racing world. The design reflects the blend of modern city living, online gaming, and zero-emissions mobility.
Drawing from online racing and Nissan’s participation in Formula E, the Concept 20-23 features a compact 3-door hatchback body-style with extreme aerodynamic elements. These include deep skirts to channel airflow, brake-cooling ducts, and a unique nose design housing headlights and turn signals with distinctive LED technology.
The Toyota Gazoo Racing team is upping the ante on the already high-performing GR Corolla for 2024. They’re bringing back the sought-after Circuit Edition for another year, offering it in a striking Blue Flame paint colour. Additionally, they’re introducing a new GR Corolla Premium Grade, elevating the model’s features with high-performance components as standard for enthusiasts.
The GR Corolla has received an overwhelming response, capturing a passion for driving. The new Premium Grade maintains the focus on the driving experience. It comes with dual LSD (Limited Slip Differential) to maximise traction and torque distribution during cornering. Brake cooling ducts come standard, and the interior receives an upgrade with heated seats, a heated steering wheel, front/rear parking sensors, JBL Premium Audio, and a wireless cell phone charger.
For 2024, the Circuit Edition will be available in Blue Flame and Ice Cap colours. It features standard black forged aluminium 18-inch BBS wheels, reducing weight for an even more agile model. The Circuit Edition also boasts a bulge hood, forged carbon fibre roof, gloss black high-mounted rear spoiler, black side rocker graphics, a leather-wrapped shift knob with a blue sightline, and a forged carbon fibre accent on the shifter top plate.
Okay before starting this off, let’s get one thing clear first – the Lexus LFA is undoubtedly one of the greatest supercars ever made. It is also powered by one of the greatest engines mankind has ever produced, not from a sheer horsepower perspective alone (the LFA offers 560hp) but from the sheer aural joy that it has to offer.
In a time where car makers would rather bend over backwards than be seen as producing carbon emitting engines, it is safe to say that there will never be another engine like the naturally-aspirated V10 of the Lexus LFA ever again.
While the team at Lexus received special help from Formula 1 and MotoGP engineers, the sound of the LFA’s V10 was specially curated by Yamaha, and its wail is so glorious that it can shatter glass between 7,000 – 9,000rpm. Don’t believe us? Check out the video below:
So it is no surprise then that the Lexus LFA will go down as one of the greatest cars ever produced by mankind.
And sadly, there will never be another car like it again as manufacturers blindly turn to electric cars as the immediate solution to global warming and to reduce carbon emissions. Which means that prices for cars like the Lexus LFA are bound to skyrocket.
According to a recent Facebook sales post (above), a Malaysian car dealer tried to sell a UK spec LFA for an estimated RM8 million to RM10 million. A quick check online shows that used prices for the LFA in the UK are now hovering at about 650,000 Pounds Sterling, which is just under RM4 million before taxes.
We know the LFA is great but with prices skyrocketing up to RM10 million, which is an insane amount of money (!) and sadly that just means that owners with an eye on profiteering will perhaps rather lock up their LFA’s and keep their engines silent in hopes to make even more money. Inevitably denying the modern world of the glorious sound of arguably one of the greatest engines ever engineered.
So do you think the Lexus LFA is worth RM10 million already? Let us know in the comments section.
