Local News Archives

Honda City Hatchback Facelift Now Open For Bookings!

Honda Malaysia has announced the upcoming launch of the new City Hatchback in Quarter 2, 2024, reaffirming its position as one of the top-selling hatchback models in the Non-National segment. The facelifted model is now available for bookings at all Honda dealerships nationwide.

Mr. Hironobu Yoshimura, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Honda Malaysia, expressed enthusiasm for the New City Hatchback, reflecting on its initial success since its introduction in 2021. With over 28,700 units sold, it has established itself as Malaysia’s ultimate hatchback sensation, thanks to its captivating design, advanced technology, and practicality.

Introduced in 2021, the City Hatchback was Honda Malaysia’s second model featuring the e:HEV technology. The e:HEV RS variant, known for its sporty appeal, contributed significantly to the Company’s hybrid sales, accounting for 16% of total hybrid sales. In 2023, the City Hatchback achieved strong sales figures, solidifying its presence in the Non-National hatchback segment.

The facelifted City Hatchback boasts upgraded looks and appearance, with a sleeker and more dynamic design aimed at captivating onlookers. The e:HEV RS variant stands out with its sharper and more aggressive exterior, featuring newly designed front grille, lower grille, bumper, and fog garnish.

Adding to its sporty appeal, the e:HEV RS variant now includes sleek rear bumper lower garnish and side sill garnish designs, along with captivating Berlina Black 16-inch Alloy Wheels. Powered by the 1.5L e:HEV powertrain, the RS variant delivers dominant torque performance, while the 1.5L DOHC i-VTEC petrol version ensures a balance of performance and fuel efficiency.

Safety features have been enhanced in the new City Hatchback, with Honda SENSING technology available in all variants, including Lead Car Departure Notification (LCDN). The e:HEV RS variant further benefits from Low Speed Follow (LSF) for added driving convenience.

The new City Hatchback is poised to appeal to young adults and professionals seeking advanced technology, style, and practicality in their daily commute, catering to the current trend of youthful automotive preferences.

Myvi’s “King of the Road” Title Challenged by Bezza

It’s fascinating to see how the Perodua Myvi and Bezza each capture the attention of different regions within Malaysia, reflecting diverse preferences and priorities among consumers.

In terms of overall interest, the Myvi maintains its stronghold as a trending topic on Google, with consistently higher search interest compared to the Bezza. This suggests that despite the Bezza’s rise in popularity, the Myvi continues to resonate strongly with Malaysians across the country.

However, when we delve into regional interest, we observe distinct patterns. The Myvi garners the most interest in states like Terengganu, Kelantan, Kedah, Pahang, and Perlis, particularly in cities and towns on the east coast of Malaysia. On the other hand, the Bezza attracts more attention in Sarawak, Sabah, Labuan, Melaka, and Pahang, according to Bernama.

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Michelin Malaysia – “All Our Tyres Are EV Ready”

Michelin Malaysia has reassured the market that all of the tyres in its product portfolio are EV ready. What that means is that you can quite literally use any of their tyres on an electric vehicle without any issue.

Why is that an issue? Well, electric vehicles are generally heavier than their internal combustion counterparts and as such the tyres face different forms of abuse. The heavier load means the tyres need to be stronger to resist all of the forces a car puts on it, even when stationary.

The other thing is that EV’s have stronger acceleration, and that too subjects a tyre to a higher degree of wear and tear.

With demand for EV’s on the rise, Michelin though it best to affirm the market that their tyres have always been EV-ready and are equipped with their inherent tyre technology to provide the best value for money proposition.

This is not something new for Michelin, in fact, the tyre manufacturer has a proven track record of excellence in meeting the performance requirements of EV’s, including factors like rolling resistance, long-term performance, load capacity, and quite operation as well. As such, Michelin’s tyres provide EV owners the optimal balance of performance, durability and value for money.

Michelin has also enjoyed remarkable performance in the year 2023, with operating income reaching an all-time high of US$3.85 billion. Interestingly, a third of that was reinvested into research and development of its tyres.

In Malaysia, the most popular choice of Michelin tyres are those measuring in at 18-inches and above in the Passenger Cars segment, which has doubled in size over the past five years. This is down to the increasing popularity of SUVs in the Malaysian market.

To support its increasing popularity in the Malaysian market, Michelin expanded its Expert Centre and distribution channels and now boasts 211 locations around Malaysia. It has also reaffirmed its commitment to the Malaysian motorcycling community with the introduction of three new models, which you can read about here. Besides that, Michelin has also introduced its Velo range of bicycle tyres.

At the core of Michelin’s global all-sustainable approach, with People, Profit and Planet, as its guiding principle to be achieved by 2030. Michelin continues to ensure that each innovated product is people-centric, value-creating, and sustainable in 2024.

Ford Ranger Getaways Returns With More Thrills and Adventures!

Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC), the sole distributor of Ford vehicles for the Malaysian market, has announced a new series of Ford Ranger Getaways – an event specially designed for and filled with off-roading adventures and training sessions for Ranger and Ranger Raptor owners.

The first getaway is the Ranger 4×4 Off-Road Course and Water Rafting Thrills experience in Kampung Ulu Slim, Perak, which is happening on 20 April 2024. Up next is the Sarawak 4×4 Training Academy (Sar4Trac) Beginner 4WD Course in Kampung Barieng, Bau, Sarawak, which takes place on 27 April 2024.

The beginner-level 4WD courses return following positive responses from Ranger and Ranger Raptor owners who have had past training experiences, including the recently completed M4TREC Beginner 4WD Course in March. Attendees from past trainings appreciated the quality of instructions, the practicality of the sessions and the thrill of putting their skills to the test in a controlled environment.

Made ideal for owners who are new to 4×4 driving as well as experienced drivers looking to hone their skills, the M4TREC Beginner 4WD Course provided participants with the necessary safe off-roading knowledge and techniques. Those who attended also gained deeper insights and familiarity with their vehicle to help them reach the full potential of their Ranger and Ranger Raptors.

The Ranger 4×4 Off-Road Course and Water Rafting Thrills getaway is an adrenaline-fueled rafting adventure along Slim River in Perak, which promises a full day of excitement set against the scenic beauty of Malaysia’s natural landscape. Adventurers will navigate a beginner-friendly 4×4 off-road course before experiencing the thrill of whitewater rafting along the Slim River.

Open to four people per vehicle, the Ranger 4×4 Off-Road Course and Water Rafting Thrills getaway kicks off with a convoy from Ford Ara Damansara to the rafting starting point in Kampung Ulu Slim. Along the way, participants will test their basic 4×4 skills on a beginner-friendly off-roading course under the guidance of expert instructors, during which they will discover more about the capabilities of their Rangers.

On the other hand, the Sar4Trac Beginner 4WD Course is open to two people per vehicle and is designed for all owners who want to maximise their Rangers and Raptors and take their off-roading skills to the next level.

It is tailored for off-road enthusiasts seeking to improve their skills and handle their vehicles in challenging terrains. It is also ideal for new owners looking to learn the basics of off-road driving and safety. Professional drivers can also benefit from the course by honing their skills for work purposes.

Participants will first attend a briefing on safety, the basics of 4×4 driving and the obstacle courses that they will be tackling.

Under the close guidance of instructors, participants will then put into practice the basic techniques for navigating the obstacles in a hands-on session. These obstacles include Dirt Track, Frame Twister, Mud & Gravel, Rutted Track, Ditch, Hill Ascent, Hill Descent and Water Wading.

All attendees will receive a Certificate of Completion at the end of the training session.

Apart from these organised trips such as the Ranger 4×4 Off-Road Course and Water Rafting Thrills adventure and Sar4Trac Beginner 4WD Course, there are also other getaways that customers can choose to go for on their own. Slots for all Ford Ranger Getaways are limited on a first-come, first-served basis.

For more details about the featured Ford Ranger Getaways in April and a listing of other getaways in the coming months, visit the SDAC-Ford e-commerce platform. Through this online platform, owners can also select their desired getaway, make a booking and complete payment.

GAC GS3 Emzoom Officially Launched From RM118,900 – RM128,900

WTC Automotif (M) Sdn Bhd (WTCA), a subsidiary of Warisan TC Holdings Bhd, has officially unveiled the 2024 GAC GS3 Emzoom in Malaysia.

The compact sports utility vehicle (SUV) is now available in two completely built-up (CBU) variants for the domestic market, namely the GS3 Emzoom Exclusive and GS3 Emzoom Premium R. They are officially priced at RM118,900 and RM128,900 respectively.

The Emzoom is now on sale in four vibrant colours: Salt Lake Blue, Ivory White, Graphene Grey and Super Star Silver.

WTCA is offering a Special Launch Package for the first 2000 early birds registered customers which consist of:

A) Three times complimentary scheduled service maintenance includes labour, parts and lubricants.

B) 7-Year/180,000km Engine & Powertrain Warranty exclusively for the first registered owner of the vehicle in addition to its standard 5 years/150,000km warranty.

C) These early birds will also receive a complimentary limited GAC Smart Watch Key, which functions like the original car key with the additional connectivity features of a smart watch.

The GAC GS Emzoom boasts distinctive design elements, including the iconic Mecha Wing Grille, Laser Eye Split LED lights, and Light Dart tail lights, creating a captivating and futuristic silhouette with high-visibility lighting. Adding to its allure is the Rear Spoiler, which emphasises its aggressive persona.

Complementing this is a small ducktail-style spoiler seamlessly moulded into the bodywork, a combination typically found in more luxurious and exotic cars. From the Electric Hidden Door Handles to the Crystal Shift Gear Selector, every detail exudes sophistication, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal.

Beneath the hood, the 3rd Generation 1.5T GDI engine promises power and efficiency, while intelligent features like the mid-mounted exhaust and rear flat floor make this car stand out in style and performance. The engine produces 177PS at 5500rpm and 270Nm 1,400rpm. It has a fuel consumption rating of 5.91/100km.

Step inside, the GAC GS Emzoom continues to impress with its large and spacious interior, featuring a dual-tone interior that adds a youthful flair and enhances the overall ambience with its contemporary design. Its modern and spacious cabin provides an all-rounded, comfy space for both driver and passengers.

In terms of technology, advanced features such as a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android phone mirroring, surround-view camera system, electronic parking brake with autohold are standard throughout the range.

Exclusive to the GS3 Emzoom Premium R is the added luxury of automatic climate control, six-way power adjustment for the driver seat, multi-colour ambient lighting, wireless smartphone charger, hands-free power tailgate, Fusion Automatic Parking Assist (FAPA) and a panoramic sunroof.

Occupant safety in Emzoom is upheld by a wide range of active and passive safety features as well as the latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) enabling Level 2 autonomous driving. All variants feature front and side airbags, front and rear disc brakes, hill hold control, electronic stability program (ESP) and blind spot vision as standard.

The comprehensive ADAS suite includes cruise control (ACC), Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Front Collision Warning (FCW), Traffic Sign Recognition System (TSR), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Intelligent Speed Limit Control (ISLC). High Beam Assist (HMA) and Fusion Automatic Parking Assist are available in the GS3 Emzoom Premium R.

Proton S70 Owner Receives Swift Response from Proton After Reporting 83 Issues

Following Motoqar’s report last week regarding a Proton S70 Flagship X owner experiencing 73 problems with his sedan, the owner, Ku Azhar Ku Razi, 34, has provided an update on the situation. Ku Azhar revealed that his car has been taken to the Proton Center of Excellence in Shah Alam for assessment.

“On March 17, three representatives from Proton arrived and confirmed a total of 83 genuine issues with the car, which will be thoroughly examined,” Ku Azhar stated.

He further mentioned that his car had been safely transported to Proton’s headquarters in Shah Alam. Additionally, the tally of issues increased to 83 after the inspection panel identified an additional cosmetic defect.

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Villagers Propose Dirt Road as Alternative Route to Ease North-South Expressway Congestion

Residents of Kampung Baru Palawan near Langkap have put forward a solution to alleviate traffic congestion on the North-South Expressway, especially during festive periods. They suggest utilising the “jalan tikus” (dirt road) in Ladang Bikam as an alternative route for highway users, as reported by The Star.

Lee Kim Chin, 65, who assisted motorists in navigating the Ladang Bikam dirt road during the fourth day of Hari Raya Aidilfitri, highlighted its potential to shorten the journey to Kuala Lumpur. He explained that travellers only need to cover a distance of about three kilometres before reaching the main road in Kuala Bikam, heading south.

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MG Motor Malaysia Expands with New Dealerships Nationwide

MG Motor Malaysia announced the addition of esteemed dealerships to its growing MG family across the nation.

Mega Galeri Motor Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Petaling Jaya)
- Location: Wisma GAM, Ground Floor, Lot 8241, Jalan 225, Seksyen 51A, 46100 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
- Operating hours: Mon-Sat (9am-5.30pm), Sun & PH (10am-4.30pm)
Mega Galeri Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Glenmarie)
- Location: Jalan Pelukis U1/46, Temasya Industrial Park, 40150 Shah Alam, Selangor
- Operating hours: Mon-Sat (9am-5.30pm), Sun & PH (10am-4.30pm)
Mega Appeal Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Cheras)
- Location: 82 Jalan Midah 1, Taman Midah, 56000 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur
- Operating hours: Mon-Sat (8.30am-6pm), Sun & PH (9am-6pm)
Sing Huat Premium Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Chan Sow Lin)
- Location: A-1-2, Level 1, Block A, Southgate Commercial Centre 2, Jalan Dua, Off Jalan Chan Sow Lin, 55200 Kuala Lumpur
- Operating hours: Mon-Sat (9am-7pm), Sun & PH (10am-6pm)
MN Automart Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Setia Alam)
- Location: 3 Jalan Astaka 4/KU2, Bandar Bukit Raja, 41050 Klang, Selangor
- Operating hours: Mon-Sat (9am-5pm), Sun & PH (9am-5pm)
SV Auto Haus Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Seremban)
- Location: 125, Persiaran S2B1, Seremban 2, 70300 Seremban, Negeri Sembilan
- Operating hours: Mon-Sat (9am-6pm), Sun & PH (10am-5pm)
Seong Hoe Motors Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Melaka)
- Location: C-5137 Jalan Penghulu Abas, Bukit Baru, 75150 Melaka
- Operating hours: Mon-Sat (8.30am-5.30pm), Sun & PH (10am-3pm)
Ang Trading & Motor Credit Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Muar)
- Location: 33-35 Jalan Sulaiman, 84000 Muar, Johor
- Operating hours: Mon-Sat (9am-5.30pm), Sun & PH (10am-4pm)
Ang Trading & Motor Credit Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Plentong)
- Location: 2 Jalan Mutiara 6, Taman Perindustrian Plentong, 81750 Masai, Johor
- Operating hours: Mon-Sat (9am-5.30pm), Sun & PH (10am-4pm)
SV Auto Haus Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Puchong) – operational, showroom completion in May’24
- Location: GF-4, Tower 2 @ PFCC, Jalan Puteri 1/2, Bandar Puteri Puchong, 47100 Puchong, Selangor
- Operating hours: Mon-Sat (9am-6pm), Sun & PH (10am-5pm)

These new dealerships enhance accessibility to the latest pure electric models, the MG4 and MG ZS EV, launched in Malaysia. These models set new benchmarks in the automotive industry with their fun-to-drive, cutting-edge technology, performance, and sustainability features. Customers and enthusiasts are invited to experience the remarkable driving experience firsthand by visiting any MG dealer showroom for test drives.

smart Damansara Opens 3S Centre in Mutiara Damansara

smart Damansara, an all-electric car dealership operated by Smart Mobility Sdn Bhd, has inaugurated its latest outlet in Mutiara Damansara.

Situated on the ground floor of Menara TSR in Mutiara Damansara, this expansive 3S centre covers an area of 7,500 sq ft, boasting a service centre with four service bays, a showroom, and a spare parts hub. With its four service bays, smart Damansara aims to cater to the needs of up to 30 cars per day, depending on the type of service required. The service intervals for the smart EV car are as follows:

Once a year or 20,000km, whichever comes first (Aircond Filter)
Once every 2 years or 40,000km, whichever comes first (Brake Service)
Once every 3 years or 60,000km, whichever comes first (Transmission oil)
Once every 4 years or 80,000km, whichever comes first (Coolant)

This outlet serves as a dedicated community space, offering a comprehensive and convenient experience for all smart-related needs. The 3S centre provides convenience for customers during their wait for service. While waiting, customers can enjoy complimentary coffee and snacks, with car servicing typically completed within two hours. With high-speed wifi available, customers can work or watch a movie. Additionally, there is a dedicated kids’ play zone for families to keep their children entertained while waiting.

The centre operates from Monday to Sunday with the following hours: Monday – Saturday, from 9.00am – 7.00 pm and Sunday from 10.00am – 6.00pm. Visitors are welcome for test drives anytime, however customers requiring car servicing are encouraged to schedule an appointment by calling this number: 016-5558707.

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Local News

Honda City Hatchback Facelift Now Open For Bookings!

Myvi’s “King of the Road” Title Challenged by Bezza

Michelin Malaysia – “All Our Tyres Are EV Ready”

Ford Ranger Getaways Returns With More Thrills and Adventures!

GAC GS3 Emzoom Officially Launched From RM118,900 – RM128,900

Proton S70 Owner Receives Swift Response from Proton After Reporting 83 Issues

Villagers Propose Dirt Road as Alternative Route to Ease North-South Expressway Congestion

MG Motor Malaysia Expands with New Dealerships Nationwide

smart Damansara Opens 3S Centre in Mutiara Damansara

Zurich Malaysia Unveils Network of Preferred Windscreen Specialists

Honda City Hatchback Facelift Now Open For Bookings!

Myvi’s “King of the Road” Title Challenged by Bezza

Michelin Malaysia – “All Our Tyres Are EV Ready”

Ford Ranger Getaways Returns With More Thrills and Adventures!

GAC GS3 Emzoom Officially Launched From RM118,900 – RM128,900

Proton S70 Owner Receives Swift Response from Proton After Reporting 83 Issues

Villagers Propose Dirt Road as Alternative Route to Ease North-South Expressway Congestion

MG Motor Malaysia Expands with New Dealerships Nationwide

smart Damansara Opens 3S Centre in Mutiara Damansara

Zurich Malaysia Unveils Network of Preferred Windscreen Specialists

Archive

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Subaru Unveils Special “Kuala Lumpur Edition” Livery For Tokyo Auto Salon Kuala Lumpur

Subaru’s 2024 Crosstrek to Feature Advanced Hybrid System with Over 1,000km Driving Range

BYD to Unveil First Electric Hot Hatch: Seal 06 GT on August 30th

Isuzu D-Max Breaks Record with 2,000km Fuel Efficiency Feat

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