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In an unexpected twist during the unveiling of the MG5 Sedan and MG HS SUV, MG surprised enthusiasts with the introduction of its all-electric roadster, the MG Cyberster. This sleek and powerful car is set to rival petrol-powered icons like the Mazda MX-5, blending cutting-edge technology with nostalgic design cues.

Two Variants

The MG Cyberster will be available in two variants: a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) version and an all-wheel-drive (AWD) model. The RWD variant boasts an impressive 340PS  and 475Nm of torque, propelling the car from 0 to 100km/h in just five seconds, with a top speed of 195km/h. The more powerful AWD version delivers 544PS and a hefty 725Nm of torque, allowing it to reach 100km/h in a mere 3.2 seconds and achieve a top speed of 200km/h.

Battery and Charging Capabilities

At the heart of the Cyberster is a 77 kWh battery pack, which offers a WLTP-rated range of 509km for the RWD model and 444km for the AWD. The vehicle supports DC fast charging up to 144kW, enabling a 10-80% charge in just 38 minutes. However, with its 7kW onboard charger, a full AC wall box charge from 10-100% takes approximately 10.5 hours.

Design: A Nod to the Past, with Modern Flair

Inspired by the classic MGB Roadster, the Cyberster features a distinctive shark nose front end, almond-shaped LED headlights, and a sleek split lower air intake. The car’s clean side profile emphasises its sharp front fender line, which sweeps gracefully into the doors before culminating in the muscular rear haunches.

The rear of the Cyberster is equally eye-catching, featuring Union Jack-inspired taillights that form an arrow pattern, complemented by scissor doors reminiscent of Lamborghini’s dramatic style. The roadster sits on 20-inch Jetstream seven-spoke alloy wheels, with an alternative 19-inch Lightning design also available.

Interior: A High-Tech Cockpit

Inside, the Cyberster offers a driver-focused cockpit available in either black-and-red or grey-and-white color schemes. The plush sports seats, upholstered in Nappa leather and Alcantara, come with six-way power adjustment and memory functions. The flat-bottomed steering wheel includes paddles for selecting drive modes and adjusting regenerative braking.

 

The highlight of the interior is a trio of screens: a 10.25-inch digital instrument display flanked by two seven-inch touchscreens for infotainment and vehicle controls. An additional seven-inch touchscreen on the centre console manages the dual-zone climate controls. The Cyberster also features Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an eight-speaker Bose sound system.

Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance

The MG Cyberster is equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, including autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, lane centre assist, blind spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert with automatic braking, rear collision warning, and door opening warning.

Pricing Details Awaited

While the MG Cyberster’s performance and features have been detailed, the pricing remains undisclosed.

In honour of MG’s centennial milestone, SAIC Motor Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. has introduced two eagerly awaited models—the all-new MG5 sedan and the MG HS SUV—into the Malaysian market. Now available for booking, these vehicles are set to impress with advanced technology, captivating design, and exceptional value.

MG5

The MG5 makes a bold entrance into the B-segment sedan category with its sporty fastback coupe design. It stands out as the longest and widest model in its class, offering a superior driving experience that combines style, performance, and innovation.

Exterior: The MG5’s sleek fastback profile, complete with a ducktail spoiler, 3D front grille, and power sunroof, showcases its sporty appeal. Automatic LED headlights, 17-inch Tomahawk alloy wheels, and a dynamic overall design project confidence and sophistication on the road.

Interior: The MG5’s cabin is equally impressive, featuring a modern, spacious layout. Highlights include a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.25-inch floating infotainment system, and luxurious leather upholstery with red accents. The driver enjoys a 6-way electrically adjustable seat, while tech enthusiasts will appreciate connectivity options such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

 

Performance and Power: Under the hood, the MG5 is powered by a 1.5L petrol engine delivering 114PS and 150Nm of torque. Paired with an 8-speed iCVT automatic transmission, the MG5 has undergone extensive testing, ensuring reliable performance across 2.35 million kilometres.

Safety: Safety is a priority for the MG5, which comes equipped with the MG PILOT suite of driver assistance features, including Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Standard safety systems such as Electronic Stability Program (ESP), ABS, Traction Control, and 6 SRS airbags further enhance the vehicle’s safety credentials.

MG HS

Joining the MG5 is the MG HS SUV, offered in two distinct variants—MG HS Standard and MG HS Lux. Both models feature extensive enhancements, positioning the MG HS as a serious contender in the highly competitive SUV segment.

Power and Performance: The MG HS is driven by a 1.5L turbocharged engine that generates 162PS and 250Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed Twin Clutch transmission. This powertrain, designed for durability, ensures a long-lasting performance lifespan of up to 320,000 kilometres.

Design and Comfort: The SUV’s design reflects boldness, with bi-functional LED headlights, a striking grille, dual exhaust outlets, and 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels. Inside, the MG HS boasts a luxurious cabin with soft-touch materials, sports seats, and 64-theme ambient lighting. The SUV also offers generous cargo space, which expands from 463L to 1,287L when the rear seats are folded.

Advanced Technology: The MG HS is packed with cutting-edge technology, including a 12.3-inch virtual cockpit display and a 10.1-inch infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. With MG’s iSMART connectivity, users can remotely control various vehicle functions via their smartphone.

Safety: The MG HS features an array of safety systems, including 6 SRS airbags and advanced driver assistance features like Adaptive Cruise Control, Front Collision Warning, and Lane Keeping Assist, making it a safe and reliable choice for families.

Warranty and Colour Options

Both the MG5 and MG HS come with robust warranty packages, underscoring MG’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction:

  • 5 years of Unlimited Mileage Warranty on the vehicle.
  • 7 years of Unlimited Mileage Warranty on the powertrain.

The MG5 is available in five vibrant colours: Nuclear Yellow, Dynamic Red, Arctic White, Black Pearl, and Camden Grey. Meanwhile, the MG HS is offered in four elegant colours: Dynamic Red, Arctic White, Black Pearl, and Camden Grey.

Pricing

  • MG5 Fastback Coupe Sedan: Estimated price of below RM100,000
  • MG HS Standard: Estimated price of below RM130,000
  • MG HS Lux: Estimated price of below RM150,000

Experience the Latest from MG

Both the MG5 sedan and the MG HS SUV will be available for viewing and test drives at select MG Motor dealerships across Malaysia, offering customers an opportunity to explore these cutting-edge models up close.

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.

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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.

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After a remarkable 16-year reign, Abarth has confirmed the end of production for its iconic petrol-powered Abarth 500, officially marking the conclusion of the popular 595 model. This shift paves the way for the brand’s transition to electric powertrains, as it readies the all-new Abarth 600e for launch later this year.

The ICE-powered Abarth 500 has been a mainstay in the small hot hatch segment, recognised as one of the last models still powered by traditional internal combustion engines (ICE). Its retirement follows similar departures from the market, including the Hyundai i20 N and Ford Fiesta ST, signalling the industry’s broader pivot towards electrification.

Although production has ceased, dealers will continue offering new Abarth 500 models until the end of 2024. Abarth representatives confirmed that the remaining stock is expected to meet demand through the year. The decision to halt production comes just months after the limited release of the Abarth 695 75 Anniversario edition, of which only 1,368 units were produced, serving as a farewell tribute to the brand’s petrol heritage.

With the departure of the petrol-powered Abarth 500, enthusiasts are left with the electric Abarth 500e, which offers a less powerful but more environmentally conscious driving experience. This comes at a time when Abarth’s parent company, Fiat, is reevaluating its electric-only strategy. Slower-than-anticipated sales of the 500e have prompted Fiat to reintroduce an ICE hybrid version next year.

Meanwhile, the last-generation hybrid Fiat 500, sold alongside the 500e, will also be discontinued. Unlike the Abarth 500, however, Fiat plans to release a direct replacement for the hybrid 500, continuing its legacy in the small car market.

With the electric revolution taking hold, the end of the Abarth 500 marks the close of a chapter in automotive history. Enthusiasts and collectors alike will undoubtedly look back fondly on the legacy of one of the most beloved small performance cars of the modern era.

After breaking records as the fastest compact car around the Nürburgring, the refreshed Audi RS3 is set to hit the streets. Although it’s a mid-cycle facelift rather than a full redesign, the five-cylinder RS3 remains a potent contender in the compact performance segment with its fresh look and enhanced features.

Design Updates Inspired by Racing Legends

Audi’s exterior revisions give the RS3 a bolder presence. Up front, a redesigned single-frame grille showcases a diamond pattern that continues across the updated air intakes. The aggressive stance is enhanced by three new openings above the front splitter, drawing inspiration from the iconic 1987 Quattro S1 Pikes Peak.

The car’s rear has also been refreshed with new taillight graphics and an updated bumper featuring side vertical reflectors and a central reflector embedded within the diffuser. To complement the look, Audi introduces two new colours—metallic Ascari Blue and Progressive Red—while offering the RS3 in Daytona Gray with a matte finish for the first time. The 19-inch standard wheels come in matte black, with optional two-tone alloys available for those seeking a more adventurous style.

Sportier Interior with High-Performance Options

Inside, the changes are even more striking. The RS3 now offers optional carbon bucket seats, combining luxurious Nappa leather bolsters with microfibre centres and a matte carbon back. For less track-oriented buyers, the traditional Nappa leather sports seats remain available.

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The Mustang car world has been abuzz in recent months as Ford seeks to reimagine the future of the Mustang while pushing further into the electric vehicle market. With Chevrolet’s Camaro reportedly eyeing an electric four-door version, the Ford Mustang stands alone as the last of the traditional American pony cars, and Ford seems eager to explore new frontiers for its iconic model.

In recent dealer meetings in Las Vegas, Ford revealed potential new Mustang concepts, including a family-oriented four-door version dubbed the “Mach 4” and a rugged, off-road variant tentatively called the “Baja.” The Mach 4, displayed as a rendering, hints at Ford’s desire to broaden the Mustang’s appeal, while the off-road model, shown in a photo, could offer Mustang enthusiasts a fresh take on performance.

Jim Farley, Ford’s CEO, has previously stated that any new Mustang variant must maintain the performance and attitude of the original. These dealer presentations suggest that the Mustang lineup could expand in unprecedented ways, catering to a more diverse range of consumers. However, it remains unclear which model is closer to production, though the photo of the “Baja” version suggests it may be further along in development.

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The Chinese Chamber of Commerce to the EU (CCCEU) voiced strong opposition to the European Commission’s proposed import duties of up to 36% on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs), calling the move unfair and likely to escalate trade tensions between China and the European Union.

In a statement released earlier today, the CCCEU expressed “strong dissatisfaction” with the European Commission’s “protectionist approach,” accusing the bloc of undermining free trade principles. According to the group, such measures would ultimately damage the European electric vehicle industry’s competitiveness by stifling global collaboration.

“The European Commission’s unjustifiable use of trade tools to obstruct free competition in the electric vehicle market will weaken the resilience of the European EV sector,” the CCCEU stated. They warned that the protectionist stance could lead to strained relations between the EU and China, casting a shadow over future cooperation on green initiatives and global development.

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Rimac Automobili is taking a bold step into uncharted territory by developing a track-only hypercar with a unique, centralised seating position, as confirmed by CEO Mate Rimac in a recent interview with Motor1. This upcoming car represents a significant shift for the Croatian automaker, which has previously focused on two-seater electric hypercars designed for road use.

Rimac Nevera

According to Mate Rimac, the new track car will push the boundaries of performance, aiming to be faster than any race car on most tracks, including those used for Formula 1 and Le Mans. Unlike Rimac’s existing models, such as the Nevera, this car will feature a closed-canopy cockpit built on an entirely new platform, separate from the Nevera’s architecture.

The CEO hinted that the car might be unveiled later this year, with track events scheduled for next year. Despite its track-only design, the car won’t adhere to any existing racing regulations like those governing Formula 1 or Le Mans Prototype (LMP) cars. While safety will be a priority, Rimac emphasised that the vehicle will be designed without constraints, allowing for unprecedented performance capabilities.

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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.

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