Subaru has been unveiling updated models, and speculation points to the Forester as the next in line for a significant overhaul.
The brand has hinted at the unveiling of a “newly redesigned Subaru” at the 2023 L.A. Auto Show on November 16, but it has not officially confirmed that this vehicle is the Forester. However, considering the Forester is next in line for an update, the forest-themed teaser images on the reveal website strongly suggest its arrival.
Have you ever thought of using your Apple AirTag to track your car? In case you did not know, devices in the Find My network that are in close proximity to AirTag can detect the secure Bluetooth signal it emits. These gadgets broadcast your AirTag’s position to iCloud, where you may view it on a map using the Find My app. For your privacy, the entire process is encrypted and anonymous.
In an innovative move to combat the rising issue of car thefts, Mayor Muriel Bowser of Washington DC, USA, is offering residents Apple AirTags, which utilise Apple’s Find My technology to help track stolen vehicles. This program aims to empower residents in car theft-prone neighbourhoods and enhance recovery rates while promoting community involvement in safeguarding their vehicles.
The program, inspired by a similar initiative by New York City Mayor Eric Adams earlier this year, seeks to tackle the alarming surge in motor vehicle thefts, which has risen by 101% in Washington DC. As of November 1, the city recorded over 5,800 motor vehicle thefts, prompting officials to adopt these unique anti-theft measures.
Residents in high-risk areas are set to benefit from free Apple AirTags, distributed at three events, provided they can demonstrate residency within eligible police service areas. During these events, the city’s police force will assist residents in installing and registering the tags on their phones. Crucially, the location data from the AirTags will not be accessible to the police. Instead, in the event of a car theft, residents will need to share information from Find My with law enforcement.
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As we approach the end of the year, the automotive market is experiencing a notable shift, with used car dealers offering enticing discounts on vehicles. This trend is driven by the anticipation of rising car prices in the coming year, which is creating a win-win situation for both buyers and sellers in the used car market.
According to The Star, used car prices are expected to drop by 10% to 15% during this period, making it an excellent time for those in the market for a pre-owned vehicle. However, sellers should be prepared for potential losses of a similar percentage when parting with their vehicles. This fluctuation benefits both sides of the transaction, as buyers can capitalise on these year-end discounts, and manufacturers eager to clear old stock are often willing to lower prices for new vehicles.
One intriguing aspect of this trend is the popularity of certain car brands and models in the used car market. Perodua, known for its low depreciation rate, has gained significant traction, with the Perodua Myvi being a standout choice among buyers. In contrast, the demand for Proton models is relatively lower, highlighting the preferences of used car buyers in the region.
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Toyota has unveiled its all-new Crown Sedan model in Japan and is set to start accepting orders from November 13. This latest iteration represents a departure from the traditional sedan design and embodies Toyota’s vision for a “Crown for a new era.” The lineup now offers a range of models to cater to diverse customer values and lifestyles.
The development of the new Crown model lineup began with the introduction of the Crown Crossover, combining elements of both a sedan and an SUV. Given the Crown’s historical significance and its origins as a sedan, the development team decided to reimagine and introduce a new Sedan type to meet customers’ needs for a refined and spacious driving experience, especially for chauffeured cars.
This new Crown Sedan prioritises elegance, comfort, and convenience. It features a long wheelbase and a wide body to provide spacious rear seating and ease of entry and exit, perfect for those who prefer chauffeured transportation. The interior is characterised by island architecture, featuring a continuous wood-grain panel from the instrument panel to the doors and a console that appears to rise from it. Illumination plays a significant role, contributing to the overall ambiance with LEDs that support 64-tone colour switching. The result is a serene and luxurious cabin that reflects Japanese aesthetics and hospitality.
The exterior design of the Crown Sedan emphasises horizontal lines and a flowing, elegant appearance. It features a distinctive hammerhead design, a large Under Priority trapezoid grille, and wide taillights that create a sense of width and reinforce the car’s status as Toyota’s flagship model.
It also offers a choice between two eco-friendly powertrains: a high-performance FCEV (Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle) and a hybrid HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle). The FCEV is equipped with Toyota’s second-generation fuel cell system, providing a quiet, environmentally friendly driving experience. The hydrogen-powered FCEV can travel around 82km on a three-minute hydrogen refill. The HEV variant boasts a newly developed 2.5-litre multi-stage hybrid system, which balances dynamic performance and fuel efficiency.
Furthermore, the Crown Sedan features an external power supply and an emergency power supply system. It can supply high-output power to a home or electrical appliances when connected to an external power supply, contributing to energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.
This new model lineup and the inclusion of the FCEV variant signal Toyota’s commitment to offering a diverse range of models to meet various customer needs while striving for a more sustainable and eco-friendly future.
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices in Japan:
Crown Sedan FCEV: JPY 8,300,000 (RM260k)
Crown Sedan HEV: JPY 7,300,000 (RM228k)
Audi recently announced the end of an era for its beloved TT sports car, but not before giving it a grand send-off with the Audi TT Roadster Final Edition. This special edition model pays tribute to the TT’s legacy with a range of distinctive features.
The Audi TT Roadster Final Edition comes in Audi Exclusive Goodwood Green Pearl paint, a nostalgic nod to the first-generation TT, which offered this colour as an option. The roof is grey, a first for the TT Roadster. The matte grey bumpers and side profile accents complement the grey roof. Based on the S Line trim, this Final Edition features 20-inch wheels as standard.
Audi made subtle changes by removing most of the S Line badges on the exterior and interior. The brushed aluminium accents have been replaced with carbon fibre, adding a touch of sportiness. The seats are upholstered in Palomino Brown leather, described as a “modern interpretation” of the original TT’s baseball seats.
In terms of performance, the TT Roadster Final Edition boasts a base turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 228hp and 350Nm torque, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. It accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in 5.5 seconds and includes all-wheel drive and magnetic ride control as standard, which is part of the S Line trim and reduces the ride height by 0.3 inches.
This special edition is exclusive to the US, with only 50 units available. The Audi TT Roadster Final Edition is priced at $68,895 (RM325,838), providing a fitting farewell to this iconic sports car.
BMW Malaysia unveiled its First-Ever All-Electric BMW i5 eDrive40 at the Premium Auto Care Expo (PACE) 2023. This launch marked a remarkable conclusion to the year, showcasing BMW Malaysia’s dedication to Electric Mobility and its ongoing commitment to enhancing the BMW i vehicle lineup.
The new i5’s headlights are adorned with vertical LED bars that give it an attractive appearance both during the day and at night. The kidney grille is a visually arresting focal point at the front of the car and takes stylistic cues from the legendary “Sharknose” design. When combined with the BMW Iconic Glow contour line, it gives off an eye-catching external look. The M high gloss Shadowline adds even more visual appeal to the entire design.
The sleek 21-inch BMW Individual 954 wheels in Bicolor Jet Black with mixed-size tyres balance the captivating car and provide a powerful visual impact. The luxury sedan has the seductive aspect of a coupe thanks to the seamless transition of the iconic Hofmeister kink, a distinguishing feature of the BMW 5 Series, to the back. The sleek LED taillights and adaptable LED headlights provide a unique visual element, providing a modern take on the traditional BMW 5 Series design.
The First-Ever All-Electric BMW i5 eDrive40 has a wheelbase of 2,995mm, a length is 5,060mm, a width is 1,900mm, and a height is 1,515mm. This has a 97mm longer, 32mm wider, 36mm taller, and 20mm wider wheelbase than its predecessor.
The First-Ever All-Electric BMW i5 eDrive40 is a thrilling addition to the legendary BMW 5 Series portfolio, representing a new era of driving excellence, luxury, and innovation. It boasts impressive power, delivering an exceptional maximum output of 340hp and an outstanding electric range of up to 582km (WLTP).
One of its unique features is the “Max Range” function, which enhances efficiency by 25 percent, while its peak torque of 430Nm in Sport Boost allows it to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in just 6.0 seconds. The Iconic Sounds Electric system, created by renowned film music composer Hans Zimmer, provides an auditory delight, adapting to the selected driving mode.
At the heart of it is an 83.9kWh high-voltage battery with advanced features like adaptive recuperation and intelligent heat pump technology. It offers high-powered charging capabilities with options for both DC and AC charging, providing rapid charging and convenient overnight charging.
Inside, the BMW Curved Display takes centre stage. This feature combines a 12.3-inch instrument panel with a 14.9-inch touchscreen Control Display, offering both intuitive interaction and fully digital communication through natural language and touch commands.
Enhancing the ambience of the cabin, the illuminated BMW Interaction Bar, initially introduced in the All-Electric BMW i7, extends across the dashboard. Combined with Ambient Lighting, it creates an unforgettable experience for drivers, allowing them to effortlessly control functions like air conditioning with just a touch.
Adding an extra layer of luxury to the interior is the Crafted Clarity glass application, featuring polished glass crystal elements. The Dark Silver M accent, in conjunction with the Aluminum Rhombicle trim, provides a sophisticated finishing touch to the cabin.
The car also offers wireless charging on the tray. The iDrive Controller and centre console elements have been thoughtfully redesigned to enhance their technological features while retaining their user-friendly characteristics.
The in-cabin experience is elevated further with the Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System, boasting 18 speakers and an amplifier output of 655 Watts. There is also a BMW Panorama glass roof, which expands at the top and includes an open-air feature that fills the interior with natural light.
BMW Malaysia is dedicated to expanding its charging network, ensuring that BMW owners enjoy a seamless EV ownership experience. The design features iconic BMW design elements and modern innovations. The interior is equipped with advanced technology, including the new BMW Operating System 8.5.
Safety and driver support technologies are a priority, with the introduction of Proactive Care, an integrated customer service system, and the comprehensive Driving Assistance Professional.
In addition to the Proactive Care system, the car is equipped with the comprehensive Driving Assistance Professional package as a standard feature. This package encompasses a wide array of safety and support technologies tailored to assist drivers during both long journeys and urban traffic. These features are designed to enhance driving comfort and safety and include:
Distance Control with Stop and Go function: This feature helps maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead, even in stop-and-go traffic.
Steering and Lane Control Assistant: This system assists with steering and helps keep the car within the lane, thus enhancing driving comfort and safety.
Automatic Speed Limit Assist: This function helps drivers stay within speed limits by providing guidance and warnings regarding speed limits on the current road.
Route Control and Active Navigation Guidance: This feature helps plan the optimal route and provides active navigation guidance, making your journey more efficient.
Side Collision Protection: This technology is designed to detect potential side collisions and provide warnings or assistance to avoid such incidents.
Road Priority Warning: This function offers alerts and warnings about road conditions, helping you stay informed and safe during your travels.
Wrong-way Warning: This system provides alerts if you are heading the wrong way on a road, reducing the risk of entering a one-way road incorrectly.
Crossing-traffic Warning with braking function: This feature helps detect cross-traffic and can apply the brakes if a potential collision is detected, further enhancing safety at intersections and crossings.
To further enhance the driving experience, there are upholstery options available, such as the exclusive Leather Merino Black and Leather Merino Copper Brown. Redesigned sport seats are also standard. The First-Ever All-Electric BMW i5 eDrive40 is available in Black Sapphire Metallic, Mineral White Metallic, Brooklyn Grey Metallic, and Phytonic Blue Metallic as standard exterior colours.
The First-Ever All-Electric BMW i5 eDrive40 is priced at RM419,800. It can be owned with a financial program starting from RM 4,855.00 per month. BMW Malaysia offers a complete premium ownership experience for i5 eDrive40 owners, including a 5-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty, 8-Year/160,000km Battery Warranty and BMW Roadside Assistance.
Following the recent unveiling of a 100kW DC fast charging station at the Proton Centre of Excellence along the Kesas highway, smart Malaysia is taking another stride forward in its mission to provide efficient charging solutions. The company has now introduced three additional high-powered DC fast charging stations at strategically selected smart dealerships across the nation.
The Central Powerhouses
smart Glenmarie (EON Berhad) and smart Ipoh (GB Auto) have been equipped with 60kW DC charging stations, positioning them at the forefront of fast-charging technology in their respective regions. These central locations are poised to play a vital role in the growing electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem.
Penang’s Power Epicenter
For EV enthusiasts in Penang, smart Penang (Eleganz Lifestyle) boasts the highest-powered DC charger, setting a new benchmark for the island. With an impressive 120kW DC charging capacity, smart Penang is conveniently situated just 5 minutes away from Georgetown, ensuring easy access for those in need of a rapid recharge.
Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) has officially announced the launch of the fourth-generation Hyundai Tucson and a facelifted version of the fourth-generation Hyundai Santa Fe in Malaysia. These highly-anticipated SUVs are set to make their public debut at the upcoming Premium Auto Car Expo (PACE) 2023, scheduled for the 4th and 5th of November at the Setia City Convention Centre in Setia Alam.
The new Hyundai Tucson showcases a bold ‘Sensuous Sportiness’ design that marks a significant departure from its predecessor. Notable features include concealed daytime running lights integrated into a Parametric Jewel grille, full-width taillights, angular wheel arches, and intricate, sculpted surfaces. The interior offers a modern, wrap-around design with a button-less center stack under an eight-inch infotainment touchscreen that supports wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay and voice recognition.
Imported directly from South Korea as a completely built-up (CBU) model, the Tucson will be available in three variants, all of which are front-wheel drive. The 2.0 Lite variant is equipped with a Smartstream MPI engine producing 156PS and 192Nm of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The other two variants, the 1.6T Plus and 1.6T Max, feature a turbocharged Smartstream 1.6 TGDi engine delivering 180PS and 265Nm of torque, paired with a seven-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (DCT) with push-button gear selection.
Regardless of the variant, the Tucson comes with seven airbags, including a front-thorax airbag, an electronic parking brake with auto hold, Blind Spot Collision Warning, and Safe Exit Warning. The range-topping 1.6T Max variant offers additional features like eight-way powered and heated/ventilated driver and front passenger seats, a fully digital 10.25-inch instrument panel, a power tailgate, auto wipers, wireless phone charging, and a full suite of Hyundai SmartSense safety systems, including Smart Cruise Control.
In response to the growing interest in environmentally sustainable vehicles in Malaysia, PHS Automotive Malaysia (PHSAM), the distributor of Audi in the country, is expanding its offerings for electric vehicles (EVs). The company is introducing retail specials and exclusive packages for the Audi Q8 e-tron 55 and e-tron GT, making it more accessible for Malaysians to own and experience the joy of driving an all-electric Audi vehicle.
The recently introduced “Go electric” campaign offers potential owners the opportunity to enjoy savings of up to RM93,000, in addition to the significant savings provided by government duty exemptions. The campaign aims to make Audi’s electric vehicles more attractive to environmentally conscious consumers in Malaysia.
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Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC), the exclusive distributor for Ford in Malaysia, has introduced two new Ford models, one of which is the Special Edition Ford Everest WildTrak. This rugged SUV is designed for adventurous individuals seeking a capable 7-seater SUV with a balance of comfort and convenience.
The Special Edition Ford Everest WildTrak combines exceptional performance with comfort, advanced capabilities, and cutting-edge technologies in a rugged and fun-to-drive SUV. It features a new Luxe Yellow exterior color with Boulder Grey accents.
Under the hood, it is powered by a 2.0L Bi-Turbo engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and 4WD capabilities. It offers six selectable drive modes for optimal performance on different surfaces, including Normal, Eco, Tow/Haul, Slippery, Mud/Ruts, and Sand. The vehicle also comes with advanced driver assist systems (ADAS), including fully automated parking assist, thanks to the short-throw e-Shifter and electric parking brake.
Inside, the cabin features black synthetic-leather seats with orange stitching and the ‘WildTrak’ logo on the front seats. The dashboard features ambient lighting to enhance the cabin’s atmosphere. The SUV is equipped with a bold grille with ‘WILDTRAK’ letters on the hood, adding to its rugged appearance.
The Special Edition Everest WildTrak is packed with a full suite of driver-assist technologies, including the fully automated Active Park Assist 2.0, which makes parking in tight spaces a breeze. The vehicle also offers a 12-inch multi-touch screen multi-function display and a 12.4-inch color information display on the cluster for connectivity and convenience. The raised roof rails and panoramic moonroof enhance cargo space and offer a view of the sky and scenery.
The Special Edition Everest WildTrak is priced from RM338,888 (on-the-road without insurance) in Peninsular Malaysia, with variations for other regions. It is available in three exterior colours: Luxe Yellow, Meteor Grey, and Absolute Black.
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