In conjunction with Merdeka month, Honda Malaysia has launched the Merdeka Jiwa Madani Reward Campaign, offering exclusive rebates to customers. The campaign, aimed at celebrating Malaysia’s independence, provides attractive discounts on all 2024 models, making it an ideal time for Malaysians to drive home a new Honda. The offer is valid for vehicles registered between 15 and 31 August 2024.
This promotion underscores Honda Malaysia’s commitment to rewarding its loyal customers while marking this important national celebration. The rebates cater to a wide range of Honda models, ensuring that there’s something for everyone, whether they’re looking for a compact city car or a more spacious SUV.
Central Auto Distributors Bhd (CADB), a wholly-owned subsidiary company of PEKEMA, assigned the role of an exclusive importer and distributor of Dongfeng passenger cars in the Malaysian market, is gearing up for the official launch of its latest model, the BOX, in the fourth quarter of 2024. Built on the Quantum Architecture S3 platform, this compact electric vehicle (EV) combines modern design with practicality, aiming to cater to young urbanites and families who need versatile transportation.
With dimensions of 4020/1810/1570 mm, the BOX is compact yet offers an agile presence on the road. Its chic and fashionable exterior is highlighted by smooth curves and a round outline, giving it a fresh and contemporary appearance. The front fascia features through-type LED headlights, while a contrasting suspended roof enhances its dynamic look. Frameless doors and hidden sensor door handles, rare in this class, add a touch of sophistication.
McLaren Kuala Lumpur has just unveiled the new McLaren Artura Spider, a remarkable open-top variant of the Artura that takes the brand’s high-performance, electrified supercar to new levels of excitement. This is McLaren’s first-ever convertible featuring a high-performance hybrid powertrain and the second model in the Artura lineup. The Spider introduces significant upgrades in power, performance, and driver engagement while adding the immersive experience of open-top driving.
Priced from RM 3,400,000 (including duties) before options, the Artura Spider is now available for order. The car’s design and engineering have been refined to ensure a balance of supercar dynamics, comfort for regular driving, and the near-silent electric-drive benefits in urban environments.
The Artura Spider’s design focuses on driver engagement, agility, and efficiency. It features a retractable hard-top that operates in just 11 seconds, enhancing the supercar’s exhilarating performance. The car weighs just 1,560kg, making it the lightest among its convertible competitors, with a power-to-weight ratio that optimises every aspect of its high-performance capabilities.
The vehicle is built on the McLaren Carbon Lightweight Architecture (MCLA), providing a secure platform with no loss of rigidity when the roof is removed. The hybrid powertrain includes a recalibrated 3.0-litre V6 engine delivering 700PS and a compact E-motor, offering an electric range of 33km.
The Artura Spider can sprint from 0-100km/h in 3.0 seconds; 0-200km/h in 8.4 seconds; 0-300km/h in 21.6 seconds; maximum speed of 330km/h!
The Artura Spider’s performance is further enhanced by new powertrain mounts, revised suspension, and advanced Pirelli CyberTMTyre technology. The eight-speed transmission now offers faster gear changes, and the car includes various driving modes to suit different conditions, including an all-electric E-mode for urban driving.
Visually, the Spider retains the Artura’s signature design elements, with the addition of all-new buttresses and a carbon fibre retractable hard-top, which can be configured with an Electrochromic glass panel for added luxury. Artura Spider’s retractable one-piece hard-top operates electrically in just 11 seconds, at speeds of up to 50km/h and the electrochromic roof panel is optionally available.
Inside, the HD touchscreen infotainment system facilitates configuration of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS); smartphone mirroring to support Apple CarPlayis standard and wireless charging for enabled mobile devices available as an option.
In addition to the standard interior, there are three further interior specifications: Performance, which has a more sporting aesthetic; TechLux, where the focus is on the technical luxury that the name suggests; and Vision, which displays a more avant-garde and adventurous look and feel.
An extended palette of exterior paints, some of which are available on the Artura for the first time, is introduced for the new Spider; twenty Elite colours are offered in addition to the standard five colours, with a further eighteen MSO colours also available.
Every new Artura comes as standard with a five-year, unlimited mileage vehicle warranty; a six-year, 75,000km battery warranty and a ten-year anti-perforation body warranty. These warranties can be extended. A three-year service plan is also included, as is a five-year roadside assistance package.
With the Artura Spider, McLaren has introduced a convertible that combines the best of its pioneering engineering with the sensory pleasures of open-top driving, offering a versatile and immersive supercar experience.
Great Wall Motor (GWM) Malaysia is bringing the patriotic spirit of Merdeka and Malaysia Day to life with an exclusive ‘Merdeka Book & Win’ promotion, running from 15 August to 30 September 2024. This exciting offer is designed to reward GWM Ora electric vehicle (EV) owners with the chance to win luxurious travel vouchers worth up to RM30,000, allowing lucky winners to embark on tropical escapes or international adventures in style.
How to Participate: To join the promotion, customers simply need to visit any official GWM Malaysia dealership to book and register a GWM Ora Good Cat or GWM Ora 07 before 31 October 2024. Registered owners will then be entered into a lucky draw for a chance to win fantastic prizes.
The Road Transport Department (JPJ) has announced an extension of counter-operating hours by one hour in selected states, starting today, to better accommodate customer needs.
The extended hours will apply on Mondays and Fridays at JPJ branches in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, and Penang, while in Johor, the extension will be on Sundays and Thursdays. These days have been identified as having high customer traffic.
The initiative to extend operating hours will be gradually implemented in other states as well. A Governance Committee will also be established to focus on improving the quality of JPJ services, particularly at counters, to continuously monitor and enhance government service delivery.
UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has announced the opening of orders for the 2024 models of the Toyota Hilux, Toyota Fortuner, and Toyota GR86, all of which come with significant enhancements and upgrades. The order books for these models are now officially open.
Maintaining its position as Malaysia’s top non-national automotive brand, UMWT continues to deliver innovative mobility solutions that meet the diverse needs of Malaysian drivers. The company’s commitment to quality, performance, and customer satisfaction remains steadfast as it pushes the boundaries of automotive excellence.
Toyota Hilux: Malaysia’s Best-Selling Pick-Up Truck
The Toyota Hilux, known for its durability and reliability, remains a top choice for Malaysian consumers. Its robust design and enhanced features continue to lead the pick-up segment, offering a perfect blend of performance and practicality.
Vehicle Stability Control: Now included in the Hilux 2.4 Single Cab, significantly improving handling performance.
Remote Engine Start: A first for Toyota models, this feature allows users to start or stop the engine, preheat or cool the cabin, and schedule engine operation via the Toyota My app, available on selected Hilux variants.
The Mercedes-Benz EQS 450 4MATIC SUV is an impressive addition to the luxury electric vehicle segment, offering a blend of cutting-edge technology, performance, and comfort. Here are some key highlights:
Performance and Range
Power and Acceleration: The EQS 450 4MATIC SUV boasts a rated output of 360hp and a maximum torque of 800 Nm, allowing it to sprint from 0 to 100km/h in just 6.1 seconds.
Electric Range: With a range of up to 673km (WLTP), the EQS SUV offers both impressive acceleration and long-distance capability.
Drivetrain and Suspension
Electric Drive Train: The vehicle uses a highly efficient electric drive train (eATS) on both the front and rear axles, with a Torque Shift function that optimally distributes torque.
Suspension: The EQS SUV features a four-link axle at the front, a multi-link suspension at the rear, and AIRMATIC air suspension with continuously adjustable damping ADS+. It also offers rear-axle steering for enhanced maneuverability.
Safety and Assistance Features
Advanced Safety: The EQS SUV is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including the Driving Assistance Package Plus, URBAN GUARD Plus, and a 360° camera.
Charging Capabilities
Charging System: The EQS SUV offers AC charging up to 22 kW and DC fast charging up to 200 kW, with quick charging times of 6 hours and 15 minutes (0%-100% SOC) for AC and 31 minutes (10%-80% SOC) for DC.
Interior and Infotainment
Luxurious Interior: The vehicle includes multicontour front seats, a third row, and climatised front seats with three-stage ventilation and heating. The MBUX Hyperscreen integrates the instrument panel into a single widescreen display, while the MBUX Augmented Reality Head-up Display offers 3D navigation and driving assistance.
Entertainment: Rear passengers enjoy THERMOTRONIC climate control, touch displays, and the MBUX High-End Rear Seat Entertainment System. The cabin is equipped with a Dolby Atmos® sound system and Burmester® surround sound for an immersive audio experience.
Exterior Features
Exterior Design: The EQS SUV’s AMG Line Exterior includes a Black Panel radiator grille, 22-inch AMG multi-spoke wheels, and illuminated running boards.
Lighting: The DIGITAL LIGHT with Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus and a panoramic sliding sunroof enhance visibility and ambiance.
Pricing and Availability
Price: The Mercedes-Benz EQS 450 4MATIC SUV is priced at RM 625,888 (including 10% ST) for Peninsular Malaysia. Delivery is set to commence from September 2024 onwards.
This model showcases Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to delivering luxury, performance, and innovation in the electric vehicle market.
Proton has officially launched the latest version of the Proton X70, which brings several notable upgrades and refinements to the SUV market. This new model builds on the strengths of its predecessor while offering enhancements in performance, design, comfort, and connectivity.
Under the hood, the new X70 features a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine producing 177PS at 5500rpm and 255Nm of torque at 1500rpm. This engine includes improved combustion efficiency for cleaner emissions and enhanced performance. Noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) have been reduced, providing a quieter driving experience. Advanced thermal management optimises engine temperatures, reduces friction, and improves fuel efficiency through new transmission settings. Software updates in the Engine Management System (EMS) and Transmission Control Unit (TCU) further refine fuel consumption and overall efficiency.
The exterior design of the X70 has been refreshed with a new hood, fender, front bumper, and grille featuring an infinite weave diamond pattern with a chrome finish. It also includes LED headlamps with 47 LEDs for better illumination, a redesigned rear bumper, and new two-tone alloy wheels. A power tailgate with auto-open functionality enhances convenience.
Inside, the X70 now includes a 3-point shift lever, a new steering wheel, and a multicolour ambient lighting system with 72 colour options and three modes: single, breathing, and multicolour. Premium variants come with Stone Grey upholstery and Nappa leather seats.
The SUV boasts an advanced suite of safety technologies, including Walk Away Auto Lock, Nearby Auto Door Unlock, a 360 Camera Display, and an Electric Parking Brake with Auto Hold. It features 13 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Level 2, such as Autonomous Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop&Go, Lane Departure Warning, and Lane Centering Control.
NVH improvements include reduced gear whine and smoother operation from the new 7-Speed EVO300 Transmission. Enhanced insulation and noise suppression throughout the vehicle contribute to a more premium feel.
The upgraded infotainment system features a 12.3-inch screen with 1920×720 resolution, powered by a dual quad-core processor with 4GB RAM and 32GB storage. The Proton Link app allows remote control of engine, windows, locks, and air conditioning. The “Hi Proton” voice command system manages various functions, while connectivity includes 3 USB Type-A ports and 2 USB Type-C ports, along with Apple Carplay and Android Auto.
The new Proton X70 is available in Marine Blue (Flagship), Jet Grey, Armour Silver, Ruby Red, and White.
Pricing for the four available variants are RM98,800 for thE 1.5 TGDi Standard, RM110,800 for the 1.5 TGDi Executive, RM123,800 for the 1.5 TGDi Premium and RM126,800 1.5 TGDi Premium X.
Early birds (first 3,000 customer) get RM7,000 cash rebate, trade-in overtrade support for RM2,800 and upgraded Proton insurance programme. Standard packages consist of 5-Year warranty with unlimited mileage, 5-year data package with 1GB/month, six times free labour service, financing interest rates from 2.4%PA and Proton insurance programme.
As the Proton Saga marks its 39th year of continuous production, the iconic Malaysian car has reached a significant milestone, recording 7,855 units sold last month. This impressive figure represents the highest single-month sales for the Saga since October 2013. Year-to-date (YTD) sales have risen by 8.8% compared to the previous year, totalling 42,693 units and setting the stage for a strong sales year ahead.
First introduced on July 9, 1985, the Proton Saga has now surpassed 2 million units in sales, affirming its status as the most popular model from a Malaysian automotive brand. The Saga’s enduring appeal lies in its reliability and affordability, qualities that have resonated with customers for nearly three decades.
Enhancing the Saga with Geely
Proton is actively collaborating with its partner, Zhejiang Geely Holding Ltd (Geely), to explore enhancements to the Saga model. This partnership, which has been in place for years and strengthened by the recent establishment of the Proton R&D Centre in China, aims to build on the existing platform and introduce new model improvements.
Smart Malaysia has announced the grand opening of its second dealership in Johor Bahru, a move aimed at enhancing the accessibility of electric vehicles (EVs) in the southern region of Malaysia. The new dealership, smart Johor Bahru 2, will be operated by AG Autoworld (EV), marking a significant milestone in smart Malaysia’s efforts to expand sustainable transportation options and foster community engagement.
Established in 1999, AG Autoworld (EV), now rebranded as smart Johor Bahru 2, is strategically located at 17&18, Jalan Tebrau, Kampung Wadi Hanna, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor. With a history of excellence and numerous accolades, AG Autoworld recently received prestigious awards at the Proton 2024 Dealer Conference & Recognition Awards, including the Gold Award and top honours in Sales Volume and B&P Performance.
