Archive Archives

Review: Lexus RX 350 – Understated Luxury

When it comes to buying a luxury car, most Malaysians would pick the one that has the most brand recognition. Case in point – it is not uncommon for buyers to pick a Mercedes-Benz or a BMW over a Lexus even though the latter offers a better-appointed interior, greater quality and impressive refinement.

That Lexus does not have the perceived brand value over its continental counterparts is sad. Take the Lexus RX350 for example, its direct competitors would be the Mercedes-Benz GLE which is considerably more expensive and the BMW X5. Yet we arguably see more of the Germans on our roads than the RX.

The Lexus RX350 has always been an impressive SUV. One that offers space and comfort in a package that exudes understated luxury. RX models from 15 years ago are still running strong on our roads, and a lot of them are quite well kept. In fact, step inside a well maintained one and you will notice that the seats are still comfortable, the wood trimming is generous and most offer a refinement level that will match many modern cars.

The newer RX models just take it all a couple of notches higher and the latest RX, the one you see here is just in a class of its own.

Depending on how you define that class, this writer feels the new Lexus RX350 may just be a better buy than some of its rivals. Namely the aforementioned Mercedes-Benz GLE which costs upwards of RM515,000, and the BMW X5 with a half a million Ringgit price tag and a plug-in hybrid system that is yet to prove that it will stand the test of time.

And then there are others like the Volvo XC90 which is another plug-in hybrid but one that is in urgent need of an update. But with Volvo swearing off internal combustion engines the next generation XC90 could just be an electric vehicle, so that is the end of that chapter.

Also in the competitor bracket is the Audi Q5. It may be smaller and of a different segment altogether, but at RM480,000 it is very well in the same price segment as all the big names mentioned here. So, despite being smaller in size, the Audi Q5 is very much in contention.

So, what makes the Lexus RX350 a better buy then? The powertrain for one is one of the most reliable in the industry. There is none of that hybrid systems (though you can now buy a hybrid RX model) to deal with. The most basic mantra of a long-lasting car should be – the fewer parts there are in a powertrain, the less chances of anything breaking down.

Powering the RX350 is a 2.4-litre turbocharged, four-cylinder engine producing 275hp and 430Nm of torque. Those figures are enough to propel the two-ton SUV from zero to 100km/h in 7.6 seconds and onto a top speed of 200km/h. That may not sound very exciting and in all honesty, performance is not what the RX350 does best.

Power delivery is far from explosive, and you will likely want to stay out of any conversation about performance with Mercedes, BMW or Volvo owners. But that is not why you buy a Lexus RX; you buy a RX for the way the interior was crafted around the driver and passengers and the way the car isolates its occupants from the drama of the world outside.

While the interiors of its competitors feel like they were manufactured and assembled, the interior of the Lexus feels like it was specially crafted by the decades of experience of a Lexus Takumi.

Takumi is the word given to the master craftsmen who work on designing and developing a Lexus. Each Takumi is a master of a particular element of the car-making process and hones his craft over decades of continuous improvement. And of the 7,700 workers at the Miyata Lexus Plant in Kyushi, there are just 19 Takumis.

Each Takumi has at least a quarter of a century of experience in their field and are positioned as team leaders within Lexus. One interesting point about becoming a Takumi is that any aspiring Takumi must pass a very special challenge – he must fold a simple origami cat. But they must do it with a single hand – their non-dominant hand – and they must complete the challenge in under 90 seconds.

While all this may sound like marketing lingo, you do feel the words come alive around the interior of the Lexus RX. And while the RX350 may be down on power figures, it is up there when it comes to the way the interior oozes quality and craftsmanship, it is also up there when the car is on the move, and you barely hear anything of the world outside. Or feel anything as the suspension soaks up everything before it reaches the cabin.

The suede and leather trimming of the interior looks elegant but in an understated way. In fact, at first glance the interior of the new RX looks underwhelming and dark. Perhaps it is the black ash wood trimming that blends in with the black leather and suede. You will be hard done to notice the wood trim at all.

But look past that and the first thing that will capture you is the massive 14-inch infotainment screen. This is a much-welcomed addition to new Lexus models as it marks the death of the much-hated Remote Touch Interface (RTI).

The RTI was a horrible piece of tech. Imagine using a mouse pad when a car is moving and trying to select a radio station or input a destination to the navigation. It was plain horrid, but Lexus has perfected its interior by opting to ditch the RTI in favour of large touch screens.

But the touch screen system is not perfect either. Some of its menus cannot be accessed while the car is in motion, which is fine in the name of safety, but irritating because while it may be distracting for the driver the passenger can still work the system without distracting the driver. Perhaps Lexus has pushed the safety envelope too far, but other car makers like Mazda are also guilty of such an oversight.

On the move, the RX350 is perhaps at its finest. The interior remains serene thanks to the active noise cancellation system keeps the interior quiet and devoid of any intrusive sounds. The suspension offers a magic carpet like ride quality that only the Volvo XC90 and its air suspension can match.

The passengers will enjoy the electronically reclinable seats (front and rear) all around which also offer ventilation with cool air gently blowing to their backs.

All this while the driver engages the car knowing that the engine may not be very powerful, but because the new RX has a lighter and stiffer body than before, it will oblige every steering input almost immediately.

However, the one thing about the new Lexus RX350 that needs to be acknowledged is its design. It is obviously an evolution of the previous generation model, but the new spindle grille has now evolved into a spindle body where the grille merges into the front of the car. This is a definite head turner and makes the current design of the RX the best ever.

At the rear, the LED light strip runs across the width of the car and connect both taillights, very much like that of the smaller sibling of the RX – the NX. At the side of the car, the rear door looks like it molded by the rush of the wind, and it is particularly visible in the colour seen here which Lexus calls Sonic Copper, a unique colour that matches the design of the RX.

The Lexus RX350 is in a class of its own in a segment shared with the Europeans. Some may argue that if you are going to spend so much money, then you should at least be able to show it off. That is ultimately the Malaysian way. But if showing off is not your style, then the Lexus RX350 and its understated simplicity and elegance may be the ultimate car for you.

Specifications:

Engine: 2.4-litre, turbocharged, 4-cylinder, Dual VVT-i

Power: 275hp @ 6000rpm

Torque: 430Nm @ 1700rpm

Transmission: 8-speed automatic

Suspension: MacPherson strut (Front) / Multi-link (Rear)

We like: Understated luxurious interior, impeccable quality

We don’t like: Down on power

Ferrari Reveals 296 Challenge Ahead of Finali Mondiali

Ferrari has unveiled the 296 Challenge on the eve of the highly anticipated Finali Mondiali event, scheduled to take place at the Mugello Circuit from October 24th to 30th. This marks the ninth model in the prestigious history of the Ferrari Challenge Trofeo Pirelli.

Set to make its debut in the 2024 season of the Europe and North America series, the 296 Challenge introduces a host of groundbreaking features, setting it apart from its predecessor, the Ferrari 488 Challenge Evo. In many aspects, this new model represents a revolutionary design.

The 296 Challenge embodies an innovative philosophy that involves extensive modifications to the road car, tailoring it for optimal track performance. From performance to race-long consistency, this remarkable vehicle redefines the standards of Ferrari’s single-make racing series, closely mirroring the specifications of the 296 GT3, which made its debut this season.

Derived from the 296 GTB, the 296 Challenge showcases substantial enhancements in the power unit, aerodynamics, and vehicle dynamics, all designed to deliver peak performance on the track. Notably, it’s the first car in the championship’s history to feature a 120-degree V6 engine. This model is equipped with the 2992cc twin-turbo engine, excluding the hybrid component, a decision also reflected in the 296 GT3. The engine delivers a remarkable 690hp and a maximum torque of 740Nm, setting a new power record for the segment.

The 296 Challenge boasts an aero package that shatters downforce records within the single-make series. This ensures optimal efficiency under all conditions, producing over 870kg of downforce at 250km/h when the spoiler is set at its maximum angle of attack.

A standout feature in this model is the introduction of ABS EVO Track, a specialised adaptation of the innovative system initially introduced in the 296 GTB. Combined with new CCM-R PLUS brake discs, this enhances both braking performance and consistency. Additionally, the vehicle’s handling and performance benefit significantly from specially developed Pirelli 19″ tyres.

Ferrari’s unveiling of the 296 Challenge marks a significant milestone in the evolution of their Challenge Trofeo Pirelli series, setting the stage for an exhilarating 2024 season and beyond. The Mugello Circuit during the Finali Mondiali is the ideal platform to witness the debut of this groundbreaking racing machine.

Isuzu D-Max to Tackle Borneo Safari’s Off-Road Challenge

The Isuzu D-Max Single Cab is gearing up to conquer the 31st annual Borneo Safari, known as one of the world’s most challenging off-road adventures. With its exceptional versatility and dependability, the Isuzu D-Max Single Cab has been selected as the official workhorse for the event, making its mark in Malaysia’s automotive scene.

This hard-working one-ton truck is designed to cater to a wide range of tasks, from urban goods deliveries to tackling heavy loads in rugged terrains. Isuzu Malaysia is making a unique impression by offering two engine options for the Single Cab, enabling customers to meet their specific business needs. Moreover, the Single Cab boasts a competent four-wheel drive system with a standard differential lock, making it well-equipped to navigate various terrains.

Two units of the 1.9-litre Isuzu D-Max Single Cab will be put to the test in this year’s Borneo Safari, joining three Isuzu D-Max X-Terrains as the official media vehicles. Isuzu Malaysia’s CEO, Shunsuke Okazoe, selected the Single Cab for its exceptional capabilities as a workhorse. The Borneo Safari is renowned for its challenging jungle tracks, and the Isuzu D-Max’s reputation for dependability and strength has solidified its status as the preferred choice for this grueling event.

As the returning Diamond Sponsor, Isuzu Malaysia recently handed over sponsorship documents and the keys to the official media vehicles for the event, showcasing their commitment to supporting this iconic adventure challenge.

The Borneo Safari is set to commence on October 29, 2023, in front of the Sabah Tourism Board office. Over the course of a week, participants will navigate the treacherous mountainous regions of Sook and Ranau before returning to Kota Kinabalu.

Isuzu Malaysia is partnering with Tourism Malaysia, the Sabah Tourism Board, and Red Springs Sdn Bhd to create a captivating web video series aimed at promoting the Borneo Safari and Sabah as an adventurous destination. The series will highlight the formidable challenges of the Borneo Safari and offer viewers a chance to win exclusive event merchandise through a watch-and-win contest to be held after the event. Stay updated on the latest developments and thrilling moments of the event by following Isuzu Malaysia’s social media platforms.

We Dug Our Own Grave With Tesla Cybertruck, Says Musk

Approximately four years after the initial unveiling of the Tesla Cybertruck, the electric vehicle manufacturer has confirmed its plans to commence deliveries of the first batch of these massive pickup trucks to customers on November 30. However, Tesla CEO Elon Musk cautioned investors on a conference call about the company’s third-quarter earnings that they should not expect high production volumes, low prices, or profits anytime soon.

Musk expressed his admiration for the Cybertruck, having driven it personally, but he emphasized that there will be significant challenges in achieving mass production and making the Cybertruck financially viable. The Texas manufacturing plant has the capacity to produce 125,000 trucks annually, and while 1 million people have reservations for the vehicle, Tesla does not intend to rapidly increase production due to the significant challenges in manufacturing the unique and “radical” design, particularly the stainless steel construction and flat expanses of bodywork that require precise fit and finish.

(more…)

All-New Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV Officially Launched – RM700K

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has introduced the highly-anticipated all-new Mercedes-Benz EQS 580 4MATIC SUV, marking its entry into the world of all-electric luxury SUVs. This innovative electric SUV is built on the bespoke electric vehicle platform EVA2, designed from the ground up for electric mobility. It represents a bold fusion of cutting-edge features and timeless elegance.

The EQS SUV distinguishes itself as the first all-electric luxury SUV from Mercedes-Benz, underpinned by a purpose-built electric vehicle platform. Its design reflects a unique blend of form and function, combining exceptional functionality and aerodynamic performance with an unmistakable and innovative aesthetic. The design philosophy, known as Sensual Purity, is evident in the generously sculpted surfaces, seamless transitions, and minimalistic joints. Even in its seven-seater configuration, the EQS SUV maintains a dynamic and commanding presence.

The front end showcases a ‘Black Panel’ unit, featuring headlamps connected by a luminous band, alongside a deep black radiator grille with a distinctive three-dimensional star pattern bearing the Mercedes-Benz signature. Notable are the small triangular daytime running lights, which impart a striking visual signature. The light modules feature a textured surface illuminated from behind, incorporating a three-dimensional hexagon pattern in conjunction with the daytime running lights, ensuring instant recognition. The EQS SUV comes standard with Digital Light featuring a light band.

The seamless design is prominently displayed in the front with the AMG Line Exterior, showcasing reduced joint patterns and a bonnet that appears to overlap. Power domes on the front bonnet further emphasise its dynamic character.

The SUV’s dynamic silhouette defines its side profile and conveys its aerodynamic efficiency. Starting from the rounded front, the sleek A-pillar and the roofline flow towards the rear spoiler. The roof spoiler, always in black, creates an illusion of lowered vehicle height when viewed from the side. The extended C-pillar, set far to the rear, emphasises the spacious interior. A three-dimensional chrome strip elegantly frames the side windows. The EQS SUV is equipped with 22-inch AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels, aerodynamically optimised, and finished in high-gloss black with a high-sheen finish.

Aerodynamic considerations dictate the placement of the exterior mirrors on its shoulders. The black wheel arch claddings and side sill panels help minimise its visual volume. The EQS SUV is outfitted with aluminium-look illuminated running boards featuring rubber studs, which provide not only aesthetic appeal but also aerodynamic advantages that contribute positively to the electric range. Standard features include flush door handles and a panoramic sunroof, consisting of two modules creating an expansive glass surface, and ensuring ample transparency and light in the cabin.

The rear of the EQS SUV shines with meticulously designed LED lights, featuring elements in the shape of a curved 3D helix. This, combined with the light band, creates a unique lighting signature that characterises Mercedes-Benz electric vehicles.

The tailgate integrates seamlessly with the bumper, while the black wheel arch linings extend to the lower portion of the rear bumper. Below, a high-quality chrome element in diffuser style, combined with an aerodynamically optimised spoiler lip on the underbody, adds the finishing touch.

Built on the modular architecture for large electric vehicles, the EQS SUV optimises SUV-specific aerodynamic details, including turbulators and aerodynamically designed running boards, striking an ideal balance between spaciousness and aerodynamic performance. The underbody is designed with multiple aerodynamic elements playing a vital role in achieving a commendable drag coefficient of 0.26, despite its high load capacity and short rear overhang.

Taking inspiration from Formula 1 car underbodies, the running boards are turned downwards in the non-visible area underneath. This directs airflow behind the wheels, delivering measurable aerodynamic benefits.

The EQS SUV offers a variety of driving modes through Dynamic Select, allowing the driver to customise the SUV’s characteristics, including drive mode, electronic stability control (ESP), suspension, and steering. Above 80km/h, it automatically lowers itself to a standard level, while dropping below 50km/h triggers a rise to normal height. It features two versions of the offroad driving mode, one with ESP and one without. It is equipped with a transparent bonnet providing a virtual view of the area under the front of the vehicle, including the front wheels and their steering positions.

The SUV shares its long wheelbase of 3,210mm with the EQS sedan but is over 20 centimetres taller. The spacious interior dimensions are a testament to this generous SUV configuration, designed with electric mobility in mind. The standard offering includes a third row with two additional individual seats, ensuring an optimal experience for all passengers.

In terms of dimensions, the EQS SUV boasts generous space, with a length/width/height of 5,125/1,959/1,718 millimeters. Headroom measures 1,035 millimeters in the first-row seats with the sliding sunroof and 1,031 millimeters in the second row. The third row offers a comfortable 900 millimeters of headroom. The first and subsequent rows boast above-average shoulder room and elbow room.

The second-row seats can be electrically adjusted, offering a forward and backward adjustment range of up to 130 millimeters as standard. This design ensures knee room for the second row falls between 830 and 960 millimeters. These seats also recline electrically, with a range of 14 degrees forward and 4 degrees backward. The corresponding controls are conveniently located on the doors.

Incorporating the standard electric second-row seat adjustment, the luggage compartment can be continuously expanded from 645 liters (for maximum legroom) to 880 liters. Even with five occupants on board, the luggage compartment provides enough space to carry up to 24 crates of mineral water or four golf bags. With the second row folded down, the luggage compartment space increases to a generous 2,100 liters. In addition, when the third-row seats are deployed, a substantial 800 liters of boot space is available behind the second row, and 2,020 liters when folded down. With all seven seats in use, there is still a 195-liter storage space available behind the third-row seats.

The seat backrests are adjustable and can be folded down in a 40:20:40 ratio, with electrically adjustable backrest angles. In the cargo position, the backrests are set at a steeper angle, allowing for the transport of larger objects without folding them down. This cargo position can be activated via interior switches. The open tailgate provides ample headroom with a height of 1,978 millimeters, ensuring ease of loading.

The EQS SUV introduces a third row with two additional individual seats. These seats fold up from the load floor through a mechanical process. For greater ease of access to the rear, an Easy Entry function is a standard feature for the second-row seats. This function moves the backrest forward beyond the typical adjustment range by up to 290 millimetres.

One of the standout interior features is the MBUX Hyperscreen, a large, curved display unit spanning nearly from A-pillar to A-pillar. Three screens are housed under a single bonded glass cover and seamlessly meld into one expansive display. Alongside the visually impressive design, the MBUX Hyperscreen offers intuitive touch functionality, complete with haptic and force feedback. The scratch-resistant glass is coated for effortless cleaning.

The MBUX Hyperscreen unifies three displays, forming a single 141-centimeter-wide screen band. The driver’s display measures 12.3 inches diagonally, the central display is 17.7 inches, and the front passenger display is 12.3 inches. These displays are presented as one cohesive visual unit.

In the front section of the center console, the gap between the instrument panel and the center console bridges the open space, emblematic of the electric powertrain’s absence of a transmission tunnel. This design provides an expanded storage tray in the center of the footwell, enhancing the available space for accessories.

Leather surfaces with intricate seam patterns create ample storage space when combined with a large cover made of genuine wood, delivering an upscale and luxurious visual impression.

The door panel design is reminiscent of contemporary living spaces, with doors and their center panels emerging from behind the instrument panel, spanning the entire area. A surface-mounted modular body floats like a sideboard in front of the door panel, accommodating all essential door elements such as the armrest, door module, handle, and map pocket. The avant-garde look is completed with circular ambient lighting in low-light conditions.

The Electric Art equipment line offers luxury seats upholstered in black/space grey Nappa leather, accented with piping that accentuates the handcrafted touch.

Enhancing the audio experience, Apple Music’s Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos elevates the audio experience in the EQS SUV, offering studio-quality sound akin to the best concert halls. This feature ensures an immersive listening experience with multi-dimensional sound and unparalleled clarity.

The EQS SUV delivers power of up to 536hp, meeting the performance and luxury expectations of an SUV. The EQS SUV features an electric drive train (eATS) on both the rear and front axles, creating an all-wheel-drive system known as 4MATIC. The Torque Shift function optimally and continuously allocates torque between the front and rear electric motors.

The Torque Shift function seamlessly manages torque distribution between the two electric motors of the 4MATIC, adapting it on demand for optimum efficiency. This function regulates torque distribution based on different scenarios:

Energy Efficiency: For steady-speed driving, the system determines the most efficient all-wheel-drive distribution while considering that a permanent magnet synchronous machine can be completely switched off under certain conditions, reducing the baseline load.
Recuperation Power: To achieve the highest possible energy recovery rate during deceleration without compromising wheel grip and driving stability, an adapted torque distribution is utilized. Versions with all-wheel drive can offer recuperation power of up to 290 kW, enhancing the vehicle’s electric range.
Traction/Acceleration: Ideal torque distribution between both axles is established to ensure optimal and stable handling during sporty cornering.
Off-Road: In offroad driving mode, the all-wheel-drive distribution is optimised for unpaved roads, inclines, and challenging terrains.

The EQS SUV is equipped with a lithium-ion battery featuring 12 cell modules with pouch or hardcase cells. The 108.4 kWh capacity enables an impressive WLTP-rated range of up to 615km. The battery management software, developed in-house, supports over-the-air (OTA) updates, ensuring the energy management system remains current.

A state-of-the-art charging system is located above the rear axle, allowing the battery to be charged via single-phase or three-phase alternating current from the public grid, with a standard charging capacity of 22 kW. Direct current (DC) fast charging is also available, with a capacity of up to 200 kW for rapid charging. The advanced temperature and charging management of the vehicle allows for high charging currents over extended periods.

The actual charging duration depends on factors such as vehicle parameters, infrastructure availability, and specific vehicle equipment related to each country.

The Mercedes-Benz EQS 580 4MATIC SUV is available in a single variant with a price tag of RM 699,888, inclusive of the 10% Sales Tax (applicable to Peninsular Malaysia).