Global News Archives

Japanese Automakers Admit to Safety Testing Fraud

In light of the recent Daihatsu safety testing scandal, Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) has extended its investigation into other domestic automakers dating back to 2014. This probe has uncovered fraudulent conduct in type approval applications by major players including Toyota, Honda, Mazda, and Suzuki. Consequently, these companies have been compelled to suspend production, shipment, and sales of the affected models.

Toyota’s Safety Testing Misconduct

Toyota, Japan’s largest automaker, admitted to submitting falsified data in pedestrian and occupant safety tests for current models such as the Corolla Fielder, Corolla Axio, and Yaris Cross. Additionally, internal audits revealed tampered crash tests for discontinued models including the Crown, Isis, Sienta, and Lexus RX. Despite these infractions, Toyota asserts that its internal checks have verified compliance with all safety regulations, indicating no immediate action is required from vehicle owners.

Mazda’s Engine and Crash Test Alterations

Mazda revealed that the engine control software of the MX-5 RF roadster and the Mazda2 subcompact hatchback had been altered during official output testing. Furthermore, improper modifications were made to crash test vehicles of the discontinued Atenza/Mazda6 and Axela models. Nevertheless, Mazda confirmed that these production models still meet safety standards.

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Subaru to Cease Production of 2024 BRZ in Japan, Prepares for 2025 Update

Subaru has announced the nearing end of production for the 2024 model year (MY) BRZ in Japan, prompting enthusiasts to take notice. However, this development doesn’t spell the end for BRZ availability in other markets. Current stock will still be accessible through local dealerships, offering potential buyers a window of opportunity.

Not leaving BRZ fans in the lurch, Subaru plans to unveil a mildly updated version as early as July 2024. The refreshed 2025 model year BRZ for the domestic market will focus on new features rather than significant design changes.

One notable update for the six-speed manual version is the inclusion of a Sport mode, previously exclusive to automatic models. This mode, inspired by the Super Taikyu racing series, offers adjusted throttle settings. Additionally, Active Sound Control will now adapt automatically based on the selected drive mode, mirroring functionality found in automatic transmission models.

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The New Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport: Enhanced and More Aggressive

The new GTI Clubsport, an enhanced variant of the facelifted GTI, introduces several key updates from the regular Grand Touring Injection (GTI) models from Wolfsburg. This more powerful version features distinctive design elements, including a unique front bumper, a prominent rear spoiler, and larger Quadrifoglio-style wheels, available in 18-inch as standard with an optional 19-inch set.

With the launch of the Mk8.5 models, the power difference between the standard GTI and the Clubsport has narrowed. The standard GTI now produces an additional 20hp, increasing its total to 261hp. In contrast, the Clubsport maintains its 296hp, preserving a 35hp advantage. Additionally, the Clubsport benefits from an extra 30Nm of torque, bringing its total to 400Nm.

Both models are equipped with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DSG), marking a departure from the previous Mk7 generation, where the Clubsport was available with a manual gearbox. In terms of performance, the standard GTI accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in 5.9 seconds, while the Clubsport does so in 5.6 seconds. Both models are electronically limited to a top speed of 250km/h. However, the Clubsport offers an optional Race Package that boosts the top speed to 268km/h and includes a robust Akrapovič exhaust system. This package also upgrades the Clubsport with chunkier brakes and a special mode within the Sport driving profile to further enhance performance.

Standard features for both models include a limited-slip differential and progressive steering, with optional adaptive Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) for improved handling. Inside, both the GTI and the Clubsport are equipped with an enlarged 12.9-inch touchscreen for the upgraded infotainment system. Notably, the touch sliders in these models are now illuminated, and the steering wheel has been updated to feature traditional buttons instead of capacitive touch keys, addressing previous usability concerns.

The new GTI Clubsport combines enhanced performance, distinctive styling, and improved technology, making it a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking a track-ready version of the iconic GTI.

Bugatti Says the L’Ultime Marks the End of the Chiron Production

The Bugatti Chiron, a symbol of hyper sports car excellence since its debut in 2016, has reached the end of its production with the final unit, ‘L’Ultime,’ crafted by Bugatti’s skilled artisans in Molsheim. Limited to just 500 units, the Chiron has set remarkable milestones, being the first road car to achieve 1,500PS and the first production car to exceed 482km/h. This last Chiron Super Sport revisits the original design ethos introduced eight years ago, blending ‘Atlantic Blue’ and ‘French Racing Blue’ into a seamless colour scheme, complemented by matching wheels, a custom blue Bugatti macaron, and hand-written details that chronicle its historic journey since 2016.

The Super Sport’s design pays tribute to the Chiron’s illustrious legacy while showcasing Bugatti’s evolution in craftsmanship. The unique colour interplay, the bespoke elements like the ‘500’ motif engraved on the engine cover, and the intricate hand-woven leather interiors underscore the Chiron’s status as a pinnacle of automotive achievement. The design not only honours the past but also highlights Bugatti’s commitment to unparalleled craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Since its debut, the Chiron has remained at the forefront of automotive performance and luxury, embodying Bugatti’s philosophy of ‘Form Follows Performance’. The Chiron family, including models such as the Chiron Sport, Chiron Pur Sport, Chiron Super Sport, and special editions like the Chiron Super Sport 300+ and Les Légendes du Ciel, has continually pushed the boundaries of what is possible in a hyper sports car. Each variant has built upon the Chiron’s legacy, offering unique features and performance enhancements that have cemented its status as a leader in the hypercar segment.

As Bugatti transitions to a new era, the final Chiron Super Sport stands as a testament to the brand’s heritage of performance, luxury, and innovation. The interior of this ultimate Chiron is a masterpiece, featuring ‘Deep Blue’ leather, ‘Blue Carbon Matt’ finishes, and intricate hand-woven leather panels that reflect the car’s bespoke nature. Every detail, from the carbon fibre elements to the French flag on the mirror wings, highlights the meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail that have defined the Chiron.

The final Chiron not only commemorates the end of an extraordinary journey but also heralds the beginning of Bugatti’s next chapter, promising continued excellence and groundbreaking advancements in automotive engineering and design. As Bugatti moves forward, this ultimate Chiron serves as a bridge between the brand’s storied past and its ambitious future, setting the stage for new innovations and continued leadership in the hypercar market.

The Last Run: Toyota GR Supra and BMW Z4 Production to Stop in 2026

The recent announcement that production of the iconic Toyota GR Supra and BMW Z4 will end in 2026 marks the conclusion of a significant chapter in the history of these beloved sports cars. Manufactured by Magna Steyr in Austria, both models have captivated automotive enthusiasts worldwide. However, broader production challenges and strategic shifts at Magna Steyr, including a workforce reduction of 500 employees at their Graz facility, have influenced this decision.

Sales figures for the Toyota GR Supra in the United States have seen a notable decline, contributing to the decision to cease production. The Supra sold 6,830 units in 2021, but this number dropped to 4,952 units in 2022, and further to 2,652 units last year. The trend appears to be continuing in 2024, with only 484 units sold in the first quarter, indicating that sales might fall below 2,000 units by the end of the year. In contrast, the Toyota GR86 has shown stronger performance, selling 2,041 units in the first quarter alone, with 1,364 units sold in March.

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Bentley Asia Pacific Retires the V8 From the Continental GT, GTC and Flying Spur

Bentley Motors Asia Pacific has announced the retirement of its current-generation 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine from the Continental GT, Continental GTC, and Flying Spur model lines. This move affects regions including the UK, Europe, MEA, Southeast Asia, Taiwan, and Australasia. Although this engine will continue to be used in the Bentayga family, its phase-out in the Continental and Flying Spur models aligns with Bentley’s Beyond100 strategy, which aims for all model lines to offer a hybrid variant by 2024. This strategic shift has already begun with the introduction of hybrid models for the Bentayga and Flying Spur, which have exceeded demand expectations.

The V8 engine has been a significant part of Bentley’s legacy, first appearing in the S2 model in 1959 with an output of 180bhp. The current-generation V8, introduced in 2012, has significantly evolved, producing three times the power of its predecessor with two-thirds of the engine capacity. More than 53,000 V8-powered Continental GT, GTC, and Flying Spur models have been hand-crafted at Bentley’s Dream Factory in Crewe, England, since its introduction.

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Updated BMW M3 Competition and M3 Touring Unveiled – 523hp, 650Nm of Torque

BMW has unveiled the updated M3 Competition, featuring a slight power increase, refined visual enhancements, and a series of interior upgrades. Maintaining the familiar 3.0-litre twin-turbo six-cylinder engine, the new BMW M3 and BMW M3 Touring now benefit from a 20bhp boost due to optimised digital engine control. This brings the total output to 523bhp, while peak torque remains steady at 650Nm. BMW claims this power enhancement results in a more intense and sustained power delivery, enhancing the overall performance experience.

The power boost translates to a 0.4-second reduction in the M3 Competition saloon’s 0-100km/h acceleration time, now clocking in at 3.5 seconds. The M3 Touring follows closely, just one-tenth slower. The four-door M3 Competition can achieve 0-200km/h in 11.8 seconds, which is half a second faster than its predecessor. The top speed is electronically limited to 250km/h, but this can be increased to 290km/h (280km/h for the Touring) with the optional M Driver’s Package.

Visually, the M3 has been upgraded with new LED headlights featuring arrow-shaped daytime running lights, similar to those on the recently introduced M4 Competition. The adaptive LED headlights with matrix technology include blue inlays, adding a distinctive touch.

The M3 Competition now comes with forged alloy wheels in axle-specific sizes (19-inch front and 20-inch rear). The standard Jetblack design can be swapped for a set of M light-alloy wheels in silver, a new option for customers. Additionally, the M3 badge on the boot lid now features a silver-colored surround.

Inside, the M3 adopts BMW’s latest Operating System 8.5 for its infotainment system, aligning with updates seen in the standard 3 Series. The new interior includes a redesigned three-spoke M steering wheel with multifunction buttons and a red 12 o’clock marker. An Alcantara-trimmed version of this wheel is available for the first time.

For those seeking further customisation, BMW offers an M Carbon exterior package. This package includes new inlays for the front air intakes, a revised diffuser, a boot lid spoiler, and carbon fibre mirror caps. The M Race Track package, designed for performance enthusiasts, features ceramic brakes and carbon bucket seats, reducing the car’s weight by 25kg compared to the base model.

The updates to the BMW M3 Competition enhance its performance, style, and technology, ensuring it remains a standout choice in the high-performance sedan segment.

BMW 5 Series Touring Expands Variety with the First BMW i5 Touring

The new BMW 5 Series Touring has officially made its debut, with the first vehicles delivered to customers in Europe and Japan. This sixth generation of the 5 Series Touring introduces the all-electric BMW i5 Touring for the first time, alongside traditional internal combustion engine models, reflecting BMW’s ongoing commitment to electrification and innovation.

The all-electric BMW i5 Touring leads the lineup, featuring two models. The BMW i5 M60 xDrive Touring boasts an impressive output of up to 601 horsepower, while the BMW i5 eDrive40 Touring offers up to 340hp and a range of up to 560km as determined by the WLTP test cycle. These models mark a significant step in BMW’s efforts to expand its electric vehicle offerings.

For those who prefer diesel engines, the BMW 520d Touring and BMW 520d xDrive Touring are also available. These models are particularly popular in Europe and are equipped with a four-cylinder diesel engine combined with 48-volt mild hybrid technology, delivering a maximum output of 197hp. This technology enhances fuel efficiency and reduces emissions, aligning with modern environmental standards.

Looking ahead to summer 2024, BMW plans to introduce plug-in hybrid versions of the new 5 Series Touring. The upcoming BMW 530e Touring and BMW 530e xDrive Touring will feature a powertrain that combines a four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor integrated into an 8-speed Steptronic transmission, collectively generating 299hp. These models will offer substantial electric-only ranges, with the 530e Touring capable of traveling 83 to 95km on electric power alone, and the 530e xDrive Touring achieving 82 to 89km. The BMW 530e xDrive Sedan will also join the lineup, offering similar performance and efficiency.

Additionally, the range of the new BMW 5 Series will expand to include a six-cylinder diesel engine by summer 2024. The BMW 540d xDrive Sedan and BMW 540d xDrive Touring will feature a straight six-cylinder diesel engine paired with 48-volt mild hybrid technology. This combination produces 303hp and 670Nm of torque, enabling both models to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in just 5.2 seconds. The intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel drive system ensures optimal traction and driving stability across various road conditions.

BMW’s electrification strategy is evident in the new 5 Series Touring, particularly with the introduction of the all-electric i5 Touring and the upcoming plug-in hybrid variants. These models are designed to deliver both performance and efficiency, offering substantial electric-only ranges and impressive system outputs. The integration of mild hybrid technology in the diesel variants and the sophisticated powertrain in the hybrid models underscore BMW’s commitment to cutting-edge automotive technology.

Practicality remains a key feature of the new 5 Series Touring, including the plug-in hybrid models. The innovative packaging of the high-voltage battery under the vehicle’s floor allows for a flat luggage compartment without compromising cargo space. The Touring model offers 570 litres of luggage capacity with all seats in use, which can be expanded to 1,700 litres when needed, ensuring versatility for various needs.

The launch of the new BMW 5 Series Touring, including the all-electric i5 Touring and upcoming plug-in hybrids, signifies a major advancement in BMW’s journey towards electrification and carbon neutrality. These models blend traditional BMW performance with modern, sustainable technologies, making the 5 Series a top choice in the premium upper mid-range segment. The combination of innovative powertrains, practical design, and BMW’s signature driving dynamics ensures that the new 5 Series Touring will appeal to a wide range of customers seeking performance, efficiency, and luxury.

Subaru, Toyota and Mazda Are Developing New Engines For Carbon-Neutral Fuel Compatibility

Subaru Corporation, Toyota Motor Corporation, and Mazda Motor Corporation are taking significant steps towards carbon neutrality by developing new engines tailored for electrification and compatibility with carbon-neutral (CN) fuels. This collaboration underscores their commitment to innovative solutions that optimise integration with electric drive units, motors, and batteries, while also focusing on reducing the carbon footprint of internal combustion engines (ICEs).

Key Initiatives and Goals

Development of Compact, Efficient Engines:

– Integration with Electric Drive Units: The new engines are designed to work seamlessly with electric motors and batteries, enhancing overall vehicle performance and efficiency.

– Smaller, More Compact Design: These engines will revolutionise vehicle packaging by being more compact, allowing for design improvements such as lower hoods and better aerodynamics. This contributes to enhanced fuel efficiency and compliance with stricter emissions regulations.

Decarbonisation Efforts:

– Carbon-Neutral Fuels: The engines will be compatible with a range of carbon-neutral fuels, including e-fuels (synthetic fuels), biofuels, and liquid hydrogen. This shift away from fossil fuels aims to make ICEs more sustainable.

– Broadening Powertrain and Fuel Options: Under racing conditions, the companies are exploring various powertrain and fuel options to ensure robust and versatile engine performance that aligns with carbon neutrality goals.

Shared Vision and Collaboration

Subaru, Toyota, and Mazda are driven by a deep understanding of their customers’ diverse needs and lifestyles. This has led them to develop engines that not only embody their respective brands but also cater to unique customer preferences. Their joint efforts focus on:

– Acting with Passion and Purpose: The companies are united in their approach to tackling carbon emissions, focusing on carbon as the primary enemy rather than the engines themselves.

– Maintaining Supply Chains and Jobs: By advancing engine technology and expanding fuel options, they aim to sustain the supply chains and jobs that support the automotive industry.

Practical Implementation and Future Outlook

– Innovative Vehicle Design: The compact nature of the new engines allows for more flexible vehicle designs, enhancing both aesthetic and functional aspects of future vehicles.

– Compliance and Performance: Emphasis on meeting stringent emissions regulations while maintaining high efficiency and performance standards ensures that these engines will be both practical and eco-friendly.

Subaru, Toyota, and Mazda’s collaborative approach reflects their shared dedication to achieving carbon neutrality through multiple pathways. By working together with like-minded partners, they aim to create a sustainable future for Japan’s automotive industry, balancing innovation with environmental responsibility. This initiative highlights their commitment to pioneering technologies that support a broader adoption of carbon-neutral solutions while preserving the essence and performance of traditional ICE vehicles.

The New Porsche 911: First Street-Legal 911 With a Super-Lightweight Performance Hybrid System

Porsche has ushered in a new era for the iconic 911 sports car with the introduction of the new 911 Carrera GTS, marking the debut of a street-legal 911 equipped with a super-lightweight performance hybrid system.

The 2025 Carrera GTS model combines the classic rear-mounted flat-six engine of the 911 with an electric motor and an electric turbocharger, resulting in an impressive output of 532hp and 608Nm of torque. Scheduled for release before the end of the year, this hybrid setup represents a significant upgrade from previous iterations.

Under the hood, the Carrera GTS features a new 3.6-litre flat-six engine, offering 478hp and 569Nm of torque—an increase of five hp compared to its predecessor. The hybrid system enables Porsche to replace the twin-turbo setup with a single electric turbocharger, equipped with a 14.7hp motor for rapid response and minimal turbo lag. Additionally, a 32.6hp traction motor and a small 1.9-kWh battery contribute to enhanced performance across the rev range while maintaining optimal air-fuel ratio.

Despite a weight increase of 46kg, attributed partly to added standard equipment such as rear-wheel steering, the Carrera GTS delivers remarkable acceleration, clocking a sub-3-second 0-100km/h time of 2.9 seconds—a first for a Carrera model. New active aerodynamic flaps at the front, along with styling tweaks to the fascias and updated wheel options, further enhance performance and aesthetics.

Meanwhile, the base Carrera model receives updates including turbos and intercoolers from previous GTS and Turbo models, resulting in a nine-hp increase in power.

Inside, the Carrera GTS boasts an all-new, all-digital gauge cluster, replacing the analog tachometer, while still prioritising essential driving information. For the first time, the 911 has a fully digital instrument cluster. The 12.6-inch curved display fits seamlessly into the new control and display concept and can be extensively customised. It offers up to seven views, including an exclusive Classic display inspired by the traditional five-tube Porsche dial design with a central tachometer. The Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system is still operated via the high-resolution central display with a 10.9-inch screen.

Both the base Carrera and Carrera GTS models receive facelift updates for 2025, with pricing increases across the board. The base Carrera starts at $122,095 (RM573,571), while the Carrera GTS is priced at $166,895 (RM784,030), reflecting the enhanced performance and advanced technology offered by these revamped models.