Jaecoo Malaysia showcased the Jaecoo J8 alongside the Jaecoo J7. The J8 was revealed in Doha, Qatar, in October last year in both two- and three-row seating configurations, depending on the market.
This SUV measures at 4,820mm in length, 1,699mm in height, and 1,930 mm in width, with a wheelbase of 2,820mm, making it slightly larger than the J7.
Under the hood, the J8 packs a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four petrol engine producing 245hp and 385Nm of torque. This powerplant is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, and buyers can choose between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options.
While the previewed unit was a left-hand drive and not indicative of the model for the Malaysian market, it still showcased several features. Notable elements include 20-inch alloy wheels, LED headlamps, dual 12.3-inch displays for the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system, dual-zone climate control with rear vents, and controls, along with a head-up display.
The interior revealed leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a 14-speaker Sony sound system, air-cooled wireless charging, a panoramic glass roof, ambient lighting, and a powered tailgate. While the previewed unit was configured for five seats, the J8 is available with six or seven seats.
However, the J8 will be launched much later this year as we still await the official launch of the J7 which is expected to be sometime in March.
Nissan is ushering in the new year with sophistication as it unveils the enhanced Nissan Almera KURO (Black) Edition. Boasting elevated aesthetics that radiate sporty poise, the 2024 model introduces the trendy Glacier Grey exterior body colour.
The Nissan Almera KURO (Black) Edition sets the stage with factory-fitted styling enhancements, featuring gloss black front grille cladding and black alloy rims as standard equipment across all three Almera variants. Elevating the stealthy theme, customers can opt for either the KURO Package or the KURO GT Package, both significantly enhancing the vehicle’s appearance.
The KURO Package builds on the Almera Turbo’s aerokit developed exclusively by TOMEI Japan, incorporating elements such as a Gloss Black Front Bumper Spoiler, Gloss Black Rear Bumper Spoilers, Gloss Black Side Skirts, and Gloss Black Boot Lid Spoiler. The package also includes practical accessories like ICE Cool Tinting Film, Sport Pedals, Kicking Plate, Door Handle Protector, and Door Visor.
For enthusiasts seeking the ultimate styling, the KURO GT Package takes it up a notch by adding the distinctive TOMEI GT Wing and 16-inch IMPUL Racing alloy rims, providing a complete stealth treatment.
Under the hood, the Nissan Almera Turbo is powered by technological innovations, including Nissan Intelligent Mobility and Nissan Safety Shield 360 initiatives. It features Intelligent Forward Collision Warning (IFCW) and Intelligent Forward Emergency Braking (IFEB) as standard, with the top VLT grade adding Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), and Intelligent Around View Monitor (IAVM) 360° camera with Moving Object Detection (IMOD).
Achieving an impressive fuel economy rating of 18.4km per litre, the Almera Turbo boasts a turbocharged engine using Mirror Bore Coating technology from the iconic R35 Nissan GT-R. Paired with the ultra-efficient XTRONIC Continuously Variable Transmission with D-Step Logic and Sport Mode, the Almera Turbo delivers exceptional performance.
Inside, the Almera Turbo features a contemporary instrument panel design inspired by a ‘Gliding Wing,’ complemented by premium materials, a flat-bottom three-spoke steering wheel, and a 7-inch semi-digital meter cluster. The cabin provides comfort and connectivity with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment display supporting Apple CarPlayTM and Android AutoTM.
The new Nissan Almera KURO (Black) Edition starts at RM83,888, with a launch promotion offering RM1,000 for the KURO Package and RM1,500 for the limited edition KURO GT Package (limited to 300 vehicle sets). Additionally, low monthly instalments starting from RM658 are available. The Almera KURO (Black) Edition is now available for viewing and test drives at all Nissan showrooms nationwide.
Jaecoo, a brand under Chery, has just shown us its premium urban off-road SUV, the J7. The brand is making its mark in the fiercely competitive automotive market with its “Born Global” philosophy, emphasising its commitment to global performance and standards.
The J7 has dimensions of 4,500mm in length, 1,865mm in width, and 1,680mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,672mm, making it slightly smaller than the third-generation Range Rover Sport. It also features 19-inch Aurora-inspired aluminium alloy wheels.
Promoted as an outstanding urban off-road SUV in the premium category, the J7 boasts a ground clearance of 200 mm, an approach angle of 21 degrees, a departure angle of 29 degrees and a wading depth capability of 600mm. For those prioritising practicality, the J7 offers a generous boot space measuring 412 litres, a maximum towing capacity of 1,300kg, and a roof load capacity of 75kg.
The available features encompass LED headlamps, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a central infotainment touchscreen measuring 14.8 inches, wireless compatibility with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a head-up display, a hands-free powered tailgate, a panoramic sunroof, rear air-conditioning vents, a powered driver’s seat, front seats with heating and ventilation. The transmission shifter has an avant-garde fighter-inspired design. It also has a safety provision of up to 10 airbags, and an extensive array of advanced driver assistance systems such as:
AEB: Automatic Emergency Braking
FCW: Front Collision Warning
LDW: Lane Departure Warning
LDP: Lane Departure Prevention
ELK: Emergency Lane Keeping
IES: Intelligent Evasion System
CSA: Curve Speed Assistance
DAI: Departure Ahead Inform
ACC: Adaptive Cruise Control
IHC: Intelligent Headlamp Control
TJA: Traffic Jam Assist
540° Panoramic Camera
Parking Assistance
RCW: Rear Collision Warning
RCTA: Rear Cross Traffic Alert
RCTB: Rear Cross Traffic Braking
BSD: Blind Spot Detection
LCA: Lane Changing Assistance
DOW: Door Opening Warning
The heart of the J7 is a 1.6-litre turbocharged inline-four petrol engine with 194hp and 290Nm of torque. Paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and an intelligent 4WD system, the J7 achieves a 0-100km/h acceleration in eight seconds. According to WLTP ratings, the fuel consumption stands at 7.48 litres per 100km.
More information such as pricing and packages will be available soon during the official launch in the first-half of 2024.
In a startling incident on December 12, 2023, negligence by contractors involved in the multi-level parking project at Rawang Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) station resulted in losses exceeding RM2.4 million. The aftermath saw a construction crane collapsing on the track between Rawang and Kuang, triggering widespread disruptions that affected more than 20,000 train passengers.
Contractor Warnings and Freezing of Approvals
According to NST, transport minister Anthony Loke disclosed that KTMB had issued warnings to the contractors, leading to the freezing of approvals to the Public Works Department (JKR) and Railway Assets Corp (RAC) due to unauthorized construction work near KTMB’s operational track. The revelation sheds light on a disregard for safety protocols that could have averted the catastrophic incident.
The freezing of approvals indicates a systemic failure in oversight and raises questions about the efficacy of regulatory checks in preventing unauthorised construction activities.
Nagakanni Subramaniam, the owner of a Perodua Bezza car that broke down less than eight hours after purchase, expressed dissatisfaction, stating that she had not received any written confirmation from Perodua regarding the resolution. While acknowledging Perodua’s media statement claiming to offer a courtesy car and suggesting repurchasing her vehicle, Nagakanni emphasised the absence of a written guarantee detailing the terms of repurchase, buyback period, loan payment, and related information.
In her Facebook post, Nagakanni clarified the situation, highlighting the malfunction of the car’s engine due to foreign substances, such as sugar. She emphasised the need for a concrete solution and written confirmation rather than media statements aimed at calming the situation without resolving the problem.
Perodua Sales Chief Operating Officer J.H. Rozman Jaafar had earlier stated that the company conducted a comprehensive investigation and had been in constant communication with Nagakanni since October. Perodua claimed to have taken several actions to address the issue, including offering a courtesy car and proposing to buy back her car. Nagakanni’s car had reportedly malfunctioned almost eight hours after purchase.
The case underscores the importance of clear communication and written assurances in resolving customer issues, especially in situations involving vehicle malfunctions shortly after purchase.
A video showinga woman filling her Thai-registered car with subsidised fuel at a petrol station in Rawang, Selangor, has ignited frustration among netizens. The video not only highlighted the audacious act but also raised eyebrows as a petrol station employee was seen assisting in the process.
In the footage, a man stood in front of the woman, holding the fuel nozzle, while another person, seemingly a station worker, pressed on the car’s boot—a common practice to facilitate the fuelling process. Netizens expressed their anger not only towards the woman’s actions but also questioned why the station employee allowed the use of subsidised fuel for a foreign-registered vehicle.
The video owner, expressing disbelief, remarked on the audacity of stealing subsidised fuel meant for Malaysian citizens and questioned the station employees for assisting in the act.
Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Sdn Bhd (Perodua) has responded to concerns regarding a malfunction in a Perodua Bezza car, which reportedly occurred within eight hours of purchase by a clerk. Perodua’s Sales Chief Operating Officer, J.H. Rozman Jaafar, assured that the company conducted a comprehensive investigation into the matter, prioritising customer satisfaction.
Rozman stated that Perodua has maintained constant communication with the customer since October of the previous year. The company has taken several measures to address the issue, including offering a courtesy car and proposing to buy back the malfunctioning vehicle. The clerk, Nagakanni Subramaniam, had expressed frustration over continuing monthly loan payments despite her car being stranded at a service centre.
FB/Nagakanni Subramaniam
Perodua is actively working on a thorough investigation of the reported malfunction and has assured the public that details will be shared in due course. Rozman refuted allegations that no action had been taken, emphasising the company’s commitment to resolving the matter. Perodua apologised for any inconvenience caused and thanked customers for their understanding during this process.
What was the issue? Here’s a recap:
October 17, 2023: A Troubling Start
The journey began on October 17, 2023, when the owner purchased a Bezza 1.3 X from Harapan Terang Motor Sales Center Sdn Bhd Segamat. Just eight hours later, at 7:40 p.m., the car refused to start, leading to the vehicle being towed to the Perodua Segamat Service Center.
October 18, 2023: Diagnosis and Hope for a Quick Solution
The mechanic at the service centre delivered the disappointing news—the engine was damaged. Hope for a prompt resolution emerged when the owner requested a replacement. However, the joy was short-lived.
November 9, 2023: A Baffling Turn of Events
Mr. Sufian, a Customer Sales Executive from Perodua HQ, presented an unexpected twist to the situation. Claiming that a foreign object, potentially sugar, had damaged the engine, he pointed to a two-week to one-month wait for a decision from Perodua HQ.
The owner’s denial of any tampering or presence of foreign objects raises questions about the veracity of the investigation and calls for a more transparent and accountable process.
November 15, 2023: Loan Limbo
Mr. Sufian urged the owner to apply for a new loan for a replacement car. However, the owner, still repaying the existing loan, understandably sought resolution before undertaking a new financial commitment.
December 4, 2023: Stalled Progress
Efforts to move forward faced a setback when the salesperson requested documents for a new loan, met with rejection from the owner who emphasised the outstanding first loan.
December 8, 2023: Elusive Approval
Customer Service conveyed that the final proposal lacked approval, citing ongoing internal investigations by Perodua. The absence of a definitive response in black and white left the owner in a state of limbo.
January 2, 2024: The Lingering Silence
As the calendar turned to 2024, the owner’s plea for resolution echoed in silence. With more than two months passed, the lack of a formal response from Perodua raises concerns about customer service and the timely resolution of legitimate grievances.
BMW enthusiasts in Malaysia may have reason to be excited as the BMW iX2 hints at its potential arrival on our shores. A cursory glance at BMW Malaysia’s website reveals a mysterious blacked-out silhouette, teasing the imminent introduction of this electric coupe. Unveiled globally in October 2023, the iX2 promises to be a sleek and powerful addition to BMW’s electric vehicle (EV) lineup.
While no booking or registration links are available yet, clicking on the enigmatic silhouette leads to a brief overview of the iX2. Among the key details shared is its impressive electric range, potentially reaching up to 449 km on a single charge.
The gradual expansion of BMW’s EV offerings in Malaysia reflects the growing demand for sustainable and high-performance vehicles in the market. The iX2, with its enticing features, is likely to find a receptive audience among Malaysian car enthusiasts.
The iX2 is essentially a coupe version of the iX1, boasting a more aggressive styling approach and a distinctive sloping roof. Its taillight design, though divisive, showcases BMW’s commitment to exploring new aesthetic directions.
Under the hood, the iX2 xDrive30 is equipped with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) setup, delivering 313hp and 494Nm of torque. With a single-speed transmission, the iX2 accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in a swift 5.6 seconds, showcasing the electric powertrain’s prowess. The 64.7-kWh battery provides a noteworthy WLTP range of 449km, positioning the iX2 as a formidable contender in the EV market.
The performance figures and range of the iX2 underscore BMW’s commitment to delivering an electric driving experience that combines power, efficiency, and range—an essential trio for widespread EV adoption.
Charging capabilities further enhance the appeal of the iX2, with options for 11kW AC charging or an upgrade to a 22 kW system. The latter allows for faster charging, exemplifying BMW’s dedication to providing convenient and efficient charging solutions.
Inside the iX2, familiarity reigns as it shares its interior design with the iX1. The twin floating screens and a spacious center console with a vertical wireless phone charger create a modern and user-friendly cockpit. The incorporation of BMW Operating System 9 and specially designed seats optimized for long-distance comfort elevate the driving experience.
The consistency in design and features across BMW’s EV lineup ensures a seamless transition for drivers embracing electric mobility, fostering brand loyalty and confidence in the evolving technology.
As BMW’s EV family in Malaysia potentially welcomes the iX2, the automotive landscape is poised for a dynamic shift towards sustainable and cutting-edge transportation. The iX2, with its blend of style, performance, and advanced technology, symbolises the next chapter in BMW’s electric journey and sets the stage for an electrifying future on Malaysian roads.
In the era of electric vehicles (EVs), the act of charging them may seem as routine as charging our mobile phones. However, recent concerns raised by experts highlight the potential dangers associated with generic or faulty parts used in EV charging stations, drawing parallels with the risks we’ve seen in the mobile phone industry.
In a report written in The Star by Ragananthini Vethasalam, Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research chairman Wong Shaw Voon has emphasised the need for caution, pointing out that while phone explosions have led to fatalities, the stakes are higher with EVs due to the larger amounts of energy they transfer and store.
The comparison serves as a stark reminder that as EV adoption grows, the responsibility to ensure the safety of charging facilities lies not only with manufacturers but also with EV owners and charging station operators.
Wong warns against the use of generic and cheaper parts, echoing concerns that as EVs become more prevalent, there may be a surge in the use of substandard components in charging infrastructure.
It is crucial for stakeholders in the EV ecosystem to prioritise quality over cost, as the potential risks associated with compromised charging stations could escalate with the increasing popularity of EVs.
In a bid to enhance user convenience and reduce physical transactions at Road Transport Department (RTD) counters, Malaysians will be able to renew their driving licences and road tax digitally starting February 1, 2024. According to NST, the announcement was made by Transport Minister Anthony Loke, who emphasised the advantages of the new digital renewal feature available on the RTD’s MyJPJ app.
Key Highlights:
Malaysians opting for a digital driving licence renewal will enjoy an RM5 rebate until December 31, 2024.
The digital renewal feature is exclusive to Malaysian citizens and does not apply to foreign nationals, pass holders, long-term permit holders, MyKAS Card, or MyPR Card holders.
The MyJPJ app, introduced in February of the previous year, has gained 7.5 million users as of December 31, 2023.
The new road tax issuance will shift from a disk sticker to a security paper, eliminating the need for display on vehicle mirrors.
During the interim period, the road tax security slip is not mandatory, providing users time to adapt to the digital system.
Malaysians are reminded that enforcement actions will be taken against individuals driving without a valid digital driving licence and road tax.
Loke highlighted the growing preference for digital platforms among drivers and vehicle owners, emphasising the government’s commitment to digital transformation. The move aligns with broader efforts to streamline processes, reduce congestion at physical counters, and provide a more efficient and user-friendly experience for Malaysians managing essential documents.
