Global News Archives

2024 Porsche Macan Has Three Screens and High-Tech Features

Porsche enthusiasts can now feast their eyes on the interior of the upcoming all-electric Macan, as the German automaker reveals the cabin in all its technological glory.

Amid a wave of technical details about the Macan EV’s platform and powertrain, Porsche has unveiled the interior, showcasing a screen-heavy layout. The electric Macan will feature up to three screens, along with an optional heads-up display infused with augmented reality. This heads-up display effectively turns the windshield into a fourth screen, projecting turn arrows and distances to vehicles in front, making it one of the largest heads-up displays currently available, spanning over 30 feet in front.

The driver’s cockpit is equipped with a non-optional 12.6-inch curved digital display, providing essential information. Meanwhile, the centre infotainment screen measures 10.9 inches and operates in full HD. An optional 10.9-inch screen for the passenger allows them to control various vehicle systems, including navigation features and video streaming, reducing distractions for the driver.

Porsche’s all-electric Macan boasts an Android-based system that can be updated through the Porsche App Centre. Users can access a variety of programs, including Spotify, YouTube, and WebEx. The system also features games, the Home Assistant smartphone app, and monthly map updates to keep the navigation system current. For those who prefer Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, the Macan supports these popular integration options.

The technological prowess of the Macan extends beyond entertainment, as it incorporates a dual motor layout pumping out around 600hp. The powertrain is supported by a lithium-ion battery pack of around 100 kWh. Noteworthy features include rear-wheel steering for improved maneuverability at low speeds and stability at higher speeds.

As the automotive world eagerly awaits the arrival of the all-electric Macan, Porsche continues to impress with cutting-edge technology and a sleek interior design that complements the high-performance electric platform.

Honda Launches New Hybrid-Electric Odyssey Minivan in Japan

Honda is set to commence sales of the revamped Odyssey premium minivan in Japan. The refreshed model introduces improvements in design, comfort, and functionality, accompanied by the addition of a new hybrid-electric variant called the e:HEV Absolute Ex Black Edition.

The three available types for the refreshed Odyssey are e:HEV Absolute, e:HEV Absolute Ex, and the newly introduced e:HEV Absolute Ex Black Edition. All three are powered by a 2.0L DOHC i-VTEC + Two-motor hybrid system connected to an eCVT.

While maintaining key features from previous Odyssey generations, such as sedan-like driving stability and distinctive minivan styling enabled by the low-floor platform, the refreshed model enhances original styling and cabin space to better meet customer needs.

A redesigned front grille, featuring an enlarged opening and five horizontal plated bars, emphasises a wider and more premium look. The addition of architectural details further enhances the overall styling, creating a powerful and substantial presence. The e:HEV Absolute Ex Black Edition stands out with a black chrome-plated front grille, black smoked lenses on rear combination lights, matte Berlina Black 18-inch aluminium wheels, and black roof and pillar linings, showcasing a sophisticated aesthetic.

The second-row of all types now features four-way power seats, allowing more precise adjustments for comfortable seating positions. Standard amenities for the second row include heated seats, a foldable centre table, armrests with a mini table, and a USB charger (Type-C), contributing to an enhanced passenger experience.

Notable features include genuine leather seats, a wireless charger, and a hands-free access power tailgate, meeting the expectations of customers seeking higher comfort and quality.

New additions to the Odyssey include a deceleration selector, allowing drivers to adjust the rate of deceleration, and an electric gear selector for smooth shifting using a single finger.

Safety is a priority with the inclusion of the Honda Sensing advanced safety and driver-assistive system, featuring three new functions: Low Speed Brake Function, Auto High Beam Headlights, and Unintended Acceleration Mitigation. The detection range for the Collision Mitigation Braking System has been expanded for improved safety in various driving situations.

For the first time, Honda Connect, an in-vehicle communication module with connected technologies, is integrated into the Odyssey. The Honda Total Care Premium connected service offers remote control of the air-conditioning unit via a smartphone and in-vehicle WiFi for added comfort during long rides.

The refreshed Odyssey embodies Honda’s commitment to delivering a premium and technologically advanced minivan experience for Japanese customers.

Closer to home, the latest offering of the Odyssey is the 2022 facelift priced at RM275,311. With a price tag that high for a 2.4-litre i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine, we can only imagine what the new e:HEV model would cost. Which is why it is unlikely for it to be introduced here.

Hyundai Ioniq 5 eN1 Cup Race Car Debut Set For May 2024

Hyundai took centre stage at its N Festival in South Korea, not only to celebrate its racing achievements in 2023 but also to surprise enthusiasts – the unveiling of the concept images of the Ioniq 5 eN1 Cup race car. Alongside the visual revelation, Hyundai shared tantalising technical specifications, aiming to conclude development work by February 2024.

The Ioniq 5 eN1 Cup showcases a bold aesthetic with an aggressive body kit featuring sizable air intakes, a prominent diffuser, and an imposing rear wing. Riding on 18-inch wheels wrapped in 280/680 R18 slick tires, the race car boasts a stiffer suspension setup that lowers its ride height by up to 2.8 inches. Braking prowess is provided by six-piston front and four-piston rear brake callipers, complemented by an air jack for swift lifting. Hyundai enhances safety with a six-point, FIA-compliant roll cage and fortified battery protection.

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Honda to Unveil Global EV Series and Concept Car at CES 2024

Honda is set to make a significant splash at CES (Consumer Electronics Show) 2024, as it takes a stride toward its goal of introducing 30 new electric vehicles (EVs) globally by 2030. The automaker aims to achieve a sales volume of 2 million EVs and has set an ambitious target of 100 per cent zero-emission cars in North America by 2040, encompassing both battery-electric vehicles and fuel-cell electric vehicles.

As part of this endeavour, Honda plans to debut a new global EV series at CES 2024, showcasing its commitment to a sustainable automotive future. The manufacturer will host a booth at the event, complemented by a dedicated website, to present the global EV series models and highlight key technologies symbolising Honda’s transformative journey.

Accompanying the announcement, Honda released a teaser image offering a glimpse of what appears to be an electric concept car poised for its debut at CES 2024. The image reveals a squared-off front end with a low profile, sloping at a steep angle. While much of the vehicle remains concealed, a pixelated wheel design emerges from the shadows, hinting at a futuristic and innovative design.

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Bugatti Chiron Super Sport ’57 One of One’: Homage To The Type 57 SC Atlantic

Bugatti commemorates 90 years of the Type 57 SC Atlantic with a bespoke creation, the Chiron Super Sport ’57 One of One.’ Crafted in collaboration with a passionate Bugatti enthusiast, this unique masterpiece pays homage to the iconic design of the Type 57 SC Atlantic, a timeless creation by Jean Bugatti. The customer’s lifelong love for the classic model and a visit to the Mullin Automotive Museum served as the catalyst for this exceptional project.

The journey began when the customer’s husband surprised her for her 70th birthday with a personal invitation from Bugatti to configure her own Chiron Super Sport. Drawing inspiration from the Type 57 SC Atlantic she first encountered 20 years ago, the customer and Jascha Straub, Lead Designer Sur Mesure at Bugatti, embarked on a co-creation journey to bring the ’57 One of One’ to life.

The exterior of the Chiron Super Sport pays homage to the Type 57 SC Atlantic’s striking silver-tinted blue hue, meticulously recreated to capture the essence of the original.

The interior of the ’57 One of One’ is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, featuring the iconic ‘Dancing Elephant’ sculpture of Rembrandt Bugatti is delicately embroidered on the headrests, symbolising the customer’s passion for animals.

Jascha Straub, Lead Designer Sur Mesure at Bugatti, highlighted the customer’s active engagement and enthusiasm throughout the design process, stating, “Her perspective, rooted in a profound respect for Bugatti’s heritage, and driven by a desire to craft an authentic homage, guided us in creating a vehicle that stands at the intersection of history and innovative engineering.”

Hendrik Malinowski, Managing Director at Bugatti Automobiles, expressed pride in the project, stating, “A creation like the ’57 One Of One’ is the perfect match for our Sur Mesure offer, bringing a passionate customer with bold ideas together with our endlessly creative and talented design and engineering teams.”

The ’57 One of One’ is not only a tribute to the iconic Type 57 SC Atlantic but also a testament to Bugatti’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of design and engineering. As a symbol of authentic homage, this bespoke Chiron Super Sport reflects the intersection of history and innovation, honouring the legacy of Jean Bugatti’s original masterpiece.

The Lamborghini Revuelto ‘Opera Unica’ Is A One-Off Work Of Art

In celebration of its 60th anniversary, Automobili Lamborghini unveils a unique work of art, the Revuelto ‘Opera Unica,’ presented during Art Basel Miami Beach 2023. This one-of-a-kind creation is a highly customised version of the Revuelto, Lamborghini’s first V12 hybrid plug-in HPEV (High-Performance Electrified Vehicle), and is a testament to the brand’s commitment to innovation and artistic expression.

The Revuelto, launched earlier this year, represents a new paradigm in performance, sportiness, and driving pleasure with its innovative design, maximum-efficiency aerodynamics, and a new carbon frame concept. Boasting 1,001hp, the Revuelto excels in agility and effectiveness both on the road and track.

The ‘Opera Unica’ takes the celebration further with a hand-painted exterior that seamlessly transitions from Viola Pasifae to Nero Helene. The brushstroke details incorporate warm and cool colours, requiring 76 hours of development and testing and a total of 435 hours for execution. A subtle 60th-anniversary logo adorns the car’s bonnet, adding a touch of commemoration to the artistic creation.

The interior of the ‘Opera Unica’ is equally distinctive, featuring an asymmetric design with a play of colours. The two-tone leather interior in Nero Ade and Viola Acutus is complemented by embroidered seat backrests, door inserts, and headliners adorned with the 60th-anniversary logo. Even the start and stop cover reflects the shaded brushstroke colors, creating a cohesive and artistic space within the vehicle.

The Revuelto ‘Opera Unica’ is a captivating blend of automotive engineering and artistic expression, embodying Lamborghini’s legacy of pushing boundaries and setting new standards in both performance and design.

Closer to home, the Revuelto was launched here back in September of this year with prices starting from RM2.5 million without taxes.

Toyota To Revive Fourth-Generation Mid-Engine MR2?

Toyota, renowned for its iconic JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) offerings, is gearing up to revive one of its classics—the MR2. The compact, mid-engine sports car, often dubbed the “poor man’s Ferrari,” last rolled off the production line in 2007 after three generations. Now, after nearly 20 years, Toyota is set to bring back the MR2 with the fourth-generation model scheduled to debut in 2025.

Toyota’s strategy for sports cars typically involves collaborations, and the upcoming MR2 is no exception. The Japanese automaker is expected to team up with another company to deliver an eagerly anticipated mid-engine model. While details on the partnership remain undisclosed, enthusiasts are bracing for some epic fan service in the tradition of JDM icons.

Interestingly, Toyota’s recent FT-Se Concept, an electric vehicle, appears well-suited in size and packaging for a mid-engine sports car. While the drivetrain type for the production version is yet to be confirmed, the FT-Se Concept raises speculation about the new MR2 potentially embracing electric power.

Another potential platform for the new MR2 could be based on the GR Yaris, known for its sporty prowess. Reports suggest that the prototype currently undergoing testing borrows heavily from the GRMN Yaris, featuring a turbocharged 1.6-litre three-cylinder engine. This hints at a high-performance, limited-production model with an estimated price tag of around 10 million yen (RM317,974).

Despite the expected high cost, the allure of the revived MR2 lies not only in its performance but also in its limited production, reminiscent of the exclusivity seen in the GRMN Yaris. As Toyota enthusiasts eagerly await the official debut in 2025, the revival of the MR2 promises to add another chapter to the legacy of Japanese sports cars.

New All-Electric Mini Cooper SE Gets JCW Racing Flair

Mini has introduced the Mini Cooper SE, boasting an electrically generated 218hp, 330Nm of torque, and a 0 to 100 km/h sprint time of 6.7 seconds. At the forefront of eco-friendly driving, the high-voltage battery, with a substantial 54.2 kWh energy content, propels the Cooper SE to a commendable range of up to 402km, as per the WLTP test cycle.

For those seeking a sportier aesthetic, the Cooper SE can be ordered in the coveted John Cooper Works Trim. This variant pays homage to Mini’s motorsport heritage, including triumphant moments at the iconic Monte Carlo Rally in the 1960s.

The John Cooper Works Trim stands out with the distinctive logo, characterised by clear lines, vibrant red, white, and black hues, and a symbolised chequered flag on the octagonal front grille. Notable features include 18-inch wheels in Lap Spoke 2-tone design, JCW brake callipers in striking red, and bold bonnet stripes, underscoring the Mini’s dynamic character.

In JCW Trim, it showcases front and rear diffusers, a high-gloss black finish for the radiator grille surround and logo, and eye-catching contrasting roof and mirror caps in Chilli Red.

Interior elegance meets sporty flair with JCW seats adorned in synthetic leather, highlighted by red stitching and multi-coloured knitted material. The dashboard features a distinctive JCW pattern, reminiscent of a chequered flag, adding a touch of racing spirit to the cabin.

The central, high-resolution OLED display, measuring 240mm in diameter, serves as a hub for vehicle-related data, navigation, media, phone, and climate settings. Mini Experience Modes introduce a new realm of personalisation, including the John Cooper Works-inspired Go-Kart Mode, enhancing the driving experience with anthracite red accents and a unique sound profile.

Technological prowess extends to parking convenience with Parking Assistant Plus, featuring 12 ultrasonic sensors and four surround cameras. The innovative Explore Mode enables smartphone-controlled parking without the driver being inside the Mini, a game-changer in tight parking situations.

Charging the Cooper SE is a breeze with fast direct current charging of up to 95 kW, allowing a rapid 10% to 80% charge in under 30 minutes. The 11 kW alternating current charging is complemented by a smart navigation system that optimises battery temperature for efficient charging, particularly in adverse weather conditions, ensuring a swift and seamless charging experience.

Audi E-tron GT Set for Mid-Life Facelift, Potential Arrival of 750bhp RS Variant

In an eagerly awaited mid-life facelift, the Audi E-tron GT is poised to undergo a series of eye-catching styling revisions, with speculation rife about the introduction of a high-performance RS variant boasting a staggering 750bhp.

Scheduled for launch towards the end of 2024, the electric powerhouse, aimed squarely at the Tesla Model S, has been recently reported undergoing final testing in Germany. Reports suggest that the design overhaul aims to align the E-tron GT with the upcoming Audi Q6 E-tron SUV, slated for release in February 2024.

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Toyota Unveils Upgraded Hilux with Powerful Mild-Hybrid System

Toyota is set to captivate truck enthusiasts with the upcoming release of the enhanced Toyota Hilux, boasting a mild-hybrid version designed to elevate both power and efficiency in this popular pickup.

At the heart of the innovation is a 48-volt mild-hybrid system seamlessly integrated into the powertrain, delivering an additional punch of 16hp and 65Nm of torque. This hybrid system complements Toyota’s robust turbocharged 2.8-litre diesel four-cylinder engine, which independently generates 201hp and an impressive 500Nm of torque. Notably, the 48V lithium battery powers the motor, contributing to a five per cent improvement in efficiency compared to the standard diesel powertrain.

Despite the absence of an electric-only mode, Toyota’s optimised stop-start system, coupled with the electric motor, extends fuel savings by allowing the engine to remain off for longer durations in heavy stop-and-go traffic. The diesel engine’s idle is also reduced to 600 rpm, further enhancing fuel efficiency. While specific fuel economy figures are yet to be disclosed, the automaker emphasises a noteworthy five per cent increase in overall efficiency.

Beyond its advanced powertrain, the Hilux Hybrid 48V introduces Toyota’s Multi-terrain Select system, featuring six driving modes—Dirt, Mud, Rock, Sand, Deep Snow, or Automatic mode, allowing the truck to intuitively adapt to diverse driving conditions. Recognising the Hilux’s off-road legacy, engineers have fortified the hybrid pickup by waterproofing critical electrical components, ensuring it can confidently navigate through challenging terrains, including wading through water up to 27.5 inches deep.