Global News Archives

PHEV for AMG Doesn’t Do It, Mercedes Goes to V8

The upcoming Mercedes-AMG CLE 63 is set to receive a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine, boasting an output of up to 585bhp, according to senior officials at the division’s Mercedes-Benz parent company.

This decision marks a departure from the initial plan to equip the new coupe and cabriolet with a 670bhp plug-in hybrid drivetrain, which mirrors the latest C63 and GLC 63 models. The shift in strategy is attributed to sluggish sales of the saloon, estate, and SUV variants, which feature the E-Performance PHEV drivetrain combining a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with a rear-axle mounted electric motor.

Despite its impressive performance figures, the E-Performance PHEV drivetrain hasn’t resonated with traditional AMG buyers, resulting in lower sales compared to their V8 predecessors across global markets. As a result, the most potent versions of the new CLE will be powered by the latest version of AMG’s M177 V8 engine, incorporating mild-hybrid technology.

These V8-powered models will occupy a position above the CLE 53 Coupe and Cabriolet, which utilise a turbocharged 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engine producing 442bhp. Mercedes-AMG aims to position the CLE as a direct competitor to the BMW M4, which offers up to 542bhp from a twin-turbo 3.0-litre straight-six engine in its most powerful configuration.

The decision to opt for V8 power for the CLE is not only influenced by the lukewarm reception to the PHEV C63 and GLC 63 models but also stems from feedback received from the global dealer network. Dealers expressed concerns that introducing a four-cylinder CLE 63 variant above the six-cylinder CLE 53 could lead to customer confusion.

Bentley’s Special Edition 8 Models Bid Farewell to Current-Generation Petrol V8 Engine

Bentley is bidding farewell to its current-generation 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine with a special send-off in North America. The Continental GT, Continental GTC, and Flying Spur ‘Edition 8’ models are exclusively available in this region and are adorned with many sought-after Mulliner Personal Commissioning options.

These Edition 8 models boast a Blackline specification exterior, striking 22” wheels, Comfort Specification seats, Bentley’s Rotating Display, contrast stitching, and self-levelling wheel badges. Customers can choose from over 60 colours in Mulliner’s Extended Paint range, and the unique Palm Fluting option adds a distinctive touch to the seating.

Thoughtful details such as LED welcome lamps and a polished, engineered ‘jewel’ filler cap further enhance the exclusivity of these models. Edition 8 badging is prominent on the fenders of the Continental GT and Continental GTC, while it is located on the D Pillar of the Flying Spur. Inside, the Edition 8 motif is embroidered on the seat backs and engraved on the treadplates.

North American customers will have the opportunity to own one of the last, most opulent 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 models with the Edition 8 badge, as production shifts towards hybrid variants as part of Bentley’s Beyond100 strategy. While the current engine will continue in the Bentayga family, the Continental and Flying Spur ranges will transition to hybrid models by 2024.

The V8 engine has been a cornerstone of Bentley’s heritage for 75 years, evolving from the first L-Series V8 in 1959 to today’s current-generation powerhouse. Since its introduction in 2012, over 53,000 V8-powered Continental GT, GTC, and Flying Spur examples have been handcrafted at Bentley’s Dream Factory in Crewe, England.

Porsche Taycan Recalled For Faulty Cells in Battery That Might Ignite

Porsche has confirmed the recall of several thousand electric Taycan models due to risks associated with their batteries potentially catching fire. The recall was initiated after identifying faulty cells in some batteries that could short-circuit and ignite.

Initially, 858 Taycans were recalled in January, but further checks revealed that additional vehicles could be affected. Porsche has now determined that 2,936 Taycans show anomalies requiring changes to the modules in their batteries. Another 4,522 Taycans have yet to be inspected and will need to be brought to repair shops for verification.

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UMW Toyota Motor Reports Strong April 2024 Sales

UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd (UMWT) concluded April 2024 with continued positive performance, achieving monthly total sales of 7,345 units (Toyota + Lexus), with Toyota contributing 7,213 units and Lexus contributing 132 units. This achievement brings the total year-to-date sales as of April 2024 to 30,789 units.

UMWT has set a new standard in the non-national B-segment hatchback market with the launch of the limited-edition Toyota Yaris G Limited. Designed specifically for Generation Z drivers, this model offers a sportier and more dynamic driving experience, with only 600 units available.

The commercial sector received a boost with the introduction of the all-new Toyota Hiace Super Long Wheelbase (SLWB). This model offers significantly increased size, providing enhanced space for passengers and cargo, making it ideal for long journeys. Powered by a 2.8-litre 1GD-FTV turbo-diesel engine, it delivers 177 PS at 3,400 rpm and 450 Nm of torque between 1,600 to 2,400 rpm.

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Bentley Introduces Ultra Performance V8 Hybrid: A New Era of Power and Efficiency

Bentley has announced a significant step towards the future with the introduction of an all-new, performance-focused V8 hybrid powertrain, which will succeed its iconic W12 engine. Named the Ultra Performance Hybrid, this new powertrain marks Bentley’s commitment to delivering the highest power output ever offered in a Bentley vehicle, alongside unparalleled dynamism, responsiveness, and efficiency, ushering in a new era of daily supercars.

The Ultra Performance Hybrid continues Bentley’s tradition of enhancing class-leading combustion engines with cutting-edge technology to elevate performance. Building on Bentley’s existing hybrid powertrains, this new system introduces “electrocharging,” employing a potent hybrid setup to achieve the most advanced and powerful powertrain in Bentley’s history. With over 750PS and an electric-only range of 80km, it surpasses the performance of the previous W12 engine by at least 91PS, previously offered in the Flying Spur and GT W12 Speed derivatives.

As Bentley’s iconic 6.0-litre twin-turbo W12 engine nears retirement after powering 105,000 engines over the last two decades, the Ultra Performance Hybrid will take the lead as Bentley’s premier powertrain. It will propel a new generation of Bentleys, establishing them as the world’s finest electrified luxury performance vehicles. Despite delivering more power and torque than the W12, the Ultra Performance Hybrid will achieve a WLTP drive cycle CO2 figure of under 50 g/km.

The character of the new engine is previewed with an engine sound clip, showcasing a blend of cross-plane bass and a free-revving growl, representing the spectrum of audio experiences offered by the powertrain. This ranges from dynamic engine notes to absolute silence in electric mode.

More details on Bentley’s new electrified powertrain, driving the next phase of its Beyond 100 journey, will be revealed in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, customers can still enjoy the remaining examples of Bentley’s W12 and non-hybrid V8 engines available through Bentley’s global retailer network.

Bentley Introduces the New Batur Convertible – Limited to 16 Units

Bentley Motors unveils the Batur Convertible, the third coachbuilt Bentley of the modern era, crafted by Mulliner, Bentley’s in-house bespoke division. Following the Bacalar barchetta and Batur coupe, the Batur Convertible continues the innovative design DNA introduced by its coupe sibling and embodies Bentley’s rich history of open-cockpit cars.

Powered by Bentley’s iconic W12 engine, the Batur Convertible boasts a 750PS, hand-assembled 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged powertrain, representing the pinnacle of Bentley’s engineering excellence. With production of this remarkable engine concluding this summer, the Batur Convertible stands as one of the last Bentleys to utilise this legendary powerplant.

Drawing inspiration from Bentley’s heritage of open-cockpit cars, the Batur Convertible features a ‘wraparound’ cockpit design reminiscent of the Bacalar, creating a dynamic and driver-focused environment. The convertible roof, deployable in just 19 seconds at speeds of up to 50km/h, transforms the car from a luxurious coupe to an open-top Grand Tourer, offering a seamless blend of performance and elegance.

Mulliner’s in-house design team collaborates with customers to co-create each Batur Convertible, offering a bespoke experience through the Mulliner visualiser tool. Customers can customise every aspect of the car, from exterior paint and brightware options to interior materials and finishes, ensuring that each Batur Convertible is a unique reflection of its owner’s tastes and preferences.

The cabin of the Batur Convertible exudes luxury and sophistication, with the option of 3D printed rose gold accents adorning key driver touchpoints and controls. Collaborating with expert goldsmiths from the historic Jewellery Quarter of Birmingham, England, Bentley Mulliner combines advanced manufacturing technologies with traditional craftsmanship to create bespoke elements that elevate the interior to new heights of luxury.

Limited to just 16 units, each handcrafted in Mulliner’s workshop at Bentley’s carbon-neutral factory in Crewe, England, the Batur Convertible represents the pinnacle of Bentley’s craftsmanship and heritage. As one of the final Bentleys to feature the iconic W12 engine, the Batur Convertible embodies the brand’s commitment to excellence and innovation, offering discerning customers a truly exclusive driving experience.

New BMW M4 CS does 0-100km/h in 3.2 seconds, 302km/h Top Speed

The new BMW M4 CS arrives as a compelling addition to the M lineup, offering a balance of power, agility, and lightweight construction. With a focus on enhancing performance and driving dynamics, the M4 CS slots between the Competition and CSL variants, delivering a thrilling driving experience.

Powered by a twin-turbocharged inline-six engine tuned to produce 543hp and 650Nm of torque, the M4 CS delivers exhilarating acceleration and impressive speed. Paired with BMW’s M xDrive all-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, the M4 CS can sprint from 0 to 100km/h in just 3.2 seconds, with a top speed limited to 302km/h.

Weight reduction is a key focus for the M4 CS, with carbon fibre-reinforced plastic utilised for various body panels, interior components, and even the exhaust system. This results in a lighter overall weight compared to the M4 Competition, contributing to improved performance and handling. The chassis and suspension tuning specific to the CS further enhance the cornering capability, making the M4 CS a formidable performer on both road and track.

BMW provides track or ultra-track tyres at no additional cost. They are mounted to a pair of M alloy wheels in black or gold that measure 19 inches in the front and 20 inches in the rear.

Visually, the M4 CS features distinctive styling cues, including unique exterior colours such as Riviera Blue or Frozen Isle of Man Green, complemented by exposed carbon fibre accents and yellow running lights.

The interior boasts a black colour scheme with red trim, crafted from high-quality leather and Alcantara materials. CS branding is prominent throughout the cabin, while the frameless kidney grille with red trim adds to the sporty aesthetic.

While the M4 CS commands a premium price tag starting at $124,675 (RM591,645), it offers enthusiasts a high-performance coupe that delivers on both style and substance. With production set to begin in July and deliveries expected later this year, the M4 CS promises to be a sought-after addition to the M lineup for driving enthusiasts seeking uncompromising performance and driving thrills.

Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II: A Twin-Turbo 6.75-litre V12 Living on Borrowed Time

Rolls-Royce has unveiled the Cullinan Series II, building on the success of its predecessor since its initial launch in 2018. While the Cullinan has been known for its off-road capabilities, the Series II iteration aims to cater to an increasingly urban demographic, incorporating elements of self-driving technology and appealing to a younger clientele.

The exterior design of the Cullinan Series II reflects a modern urban aesthetic, with a focus on clean lines and verticality. The front features a new lamp treatment, emphasising tall daytime running light graphics inspired by illuminated skyscrapers. The illuminated pantheon grille, a first for the Cullinan, adds to its commanding presence on the road.

In profile, the Series II boasts subtle changes to the surfacing, including a new feature line leading from the taillight to the rear wheel, creating a sense of movement. The addition of upsized 23-inch wheels further enhances the SUV’s stance.

A new paint finish called Emperador Truffle, inspired by brown marble, adds a contemporary touch to the exterior.

Inside, the Cullinan Series II features a pillar-to-pillar glass-panel fascia in the upper portion of the dashboard, housing digital displays and incorporating advanced technology like the SPIRIT operating system.

Connectivity has been enhanced throughout the vehicle, with features such as the Whispers app for remote vehicle management and rear seat infotainment with streaming capabilities. Additionally, the Cullinan Series II introduces Bluetooth headphone pairing for the rear seat entertainment system.

For those seeking a more dynamic interpretation of the Cullinan, the Black Badge Cullinan Series II is available at launch. It features a distinct front-end treatment with a darkened grille and blacked-out exterior elements. The interior of the Black Badge variant maintains the dark ambience, with darkened metal finishes and a unique Clock Cabinet featuring an up-lit Spirit of Ecstasy figurine.

Under the hood, both the standard Cullinan and Black Badge Cullinan Series II are powered by the same twin-turbocharged 6.75-litre V12 engine, delivering 600PS and 900Nm of torque. However, Rolls-Royce has indicated that the days of the V12 engine are numbered, with a commitment to transitioning to electric power by 2030.

The Cullinan Series II represents a bold evolution of the iconic luxury SUV, combining modern design, advanced technology, and uncompromising performance.

Gallery: The Cullinan Series II

Gallery: Cullinan Series II Black Badge

GWM Unveils “Ecological Globalisation” Strategy at Beijing Auto Show

At the 2024 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition, Great Wall Motors (GWM) made waves with a global press conference, spotlighting its strides in global development and charting a course forward aligned with its vision of “ecological globalisation.”

GWM’s global strategy spans the entire value chain, from research to production and sales. With local subsidiaries and a focus on localised marketing and product development, GWM operates vehicle production plants in Thailand and Brazil, complemented by KD factories in Pakistan, Ecuador, and other regions. This localisation enables tailored R&D and production to meet regional driving environments and preferences.

Mr. Parker Shi, Head of GWM International and VP of GWM Group, delved into the company’s global journey, highlighting the success of its five major product series across over 170 countries and regions, serving over 1.4 million international users. In 2023, overseas sales surged past 314,000 vehicles, signalling substantial year-on-year growth.

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The Test of Time: 80% Of All G-Class Models Produced Are Still On The Road Today

German cars have long been associated with luxury and performance, but when it comes to reliability, they often fall short compared to their Japanese counterparts. However, one notable exception to this trend is the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, a rugged off-roader that has stood the test of time since its debut in 1979.

Michael Schiebe, CEO of AMG and head of the G-Class and Maybach business units, recently spoke about the legendary durability of the G-Class during a roundtable interview in France. He highlighted that an impressive 80 per cent of all G-Class vehicles ever produced are still on the road today, a testament to their longevity and reliability.

Despite the complexity of its design and higher servicing costs compared to compact cars, the G-Class has proven to be a stalwart in terms of durability. Schiebe emphasised that the new electric G-Class, equipped with EQ Technology, is expected to maintain the same level of longevity as its gas-powered counterparts.

Mercedes-Benz reached a significant milestone in 2023 with the production of the 500,000th G-Class, indicating that over 400,000 of these vehicles are still actively driving on roads worldwide. This remarkable retention rate surpasses that of other iconic vehicles like the Porsche 911.

With the introduction of the electric G580 and other variants, Mercedes-Benz aims to cater to a wider range of customer preferences. Schiebe expressed confidence that both dealers and customers will find satisfaction in the expanded lineup, which now includes options for V-8 enthusiasts, efficiency-focused drivers, and those embracing electric mobility.

In a strategic move, Mercedes-Benz is diversifying its G-Class lineup for the 2025 model year, offering powertrain options beyond the traditional V-8 engine. This marks a significant shift from the brand’s reliance on V-8 power since the G-Class’s introduction in the US in 2002. The new lineup includes an electric variant and a turbo inline-six model with mild-hybrid technology, providing customers with a broader range of choices to suit their preferences and driving needs.

As Schiebe aptly summarised, Mercedes-Benz has implemented a “de-risking strategy” by offering a diverse lineup of G-Class variants, ensuring that there is a model to meet the needs and desires of every customer while maintaining the iconic appeal of the legendary G-Wagon.

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Global News

PHEV for AMG Doesn’t Do It, Mercedes Goes to V8

Bentley’s Special Edition 8 Models Bid Farewell to Current-Generation Petrol V8 Engine

Porsche Taycan Recalled For Faulty Cells in Battery That Might Ignite

UMW Toyota Motor Reports Strong April 2024 Sales

Bentley Introduces Ultra Performance V8 Hybrid: A New Era of Power and Efficiency

Bentley Introduces the New Batur Convertible – Limited to 16 Units

New BMW M4 CS does 0-100km/h in 3.2 seconds, 302km/h Top Speed

Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II: A Twin-Turbo 6.75-litre V12 Living on Borrowed Time

GWM Unveils “Ecological Globalisation” Strategy at Beijing Auto Show

The Test of Time: 80% Of All G-Class Models Produced Are Still On The Road Today

PHEV for AMG Doesn’t Do It, Mercedes Goes to V8

Bentley’s Special Edition 8 Models Bid Farewell to Current-Generation Petrol V8 Engine

Porsche Taycan Recalled For Faulty Cells in Battery That Might Ignite

UMW Toyota Motor Reports Strong April 2024 Sales

Bentley Introduces Ultra Performance V8 Hybrid: A New Era of Power and Efficiency

Bentley Introduces the New Batur Convertible – Limited to 16 Units

New BMW M4 CS does 0-100km/h in 3.2 seconds, 302km/h Top Speed

Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II: A Twin-Turbo 6.75-litre V12 Living on Borrowed Time

GWM Unveils “Ecological Globalisation” Strategy at Beijing Auto Show

The Test of Time: 80% Of All G-Class Models Produced Are Still On The Road Today

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