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.
Shinji Aoyama, Honda’s Global Executive Vice President, has revealed that the company is planning to produce a sporty electric vehicle in the coming years, potentially reviving the legendary NSX nameplate. Speaking at a media roundtable during Monterey Car Week, Aoyama hinted at the possibility of this new electric sports car being launched between 2027 and 2028.
“We are going to introduce the sports model in 2027 or 2028,” Aoyama stated. “We may not call it NSX. It’s kind of an NSX type of vehicle,” according to a report.
Mercedes-AMG is marking a significant milestone in motorsport history this year by celebrating 130 years of racing excellence under the iconic three-pointed star. The celebration pays tribute to the first-ever automotive competition, held on July 22, 1894, from Paris to Rouen, where a Daimler-licensed engine claimed victory.
To commemorate this anniversary, Mercedes-AMG introduced the highly exclusive GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport, which debuted at the Automotive Week in Pebble Beach, California. This limited-edition car, created under the theme “Racing Legend Remastered,” bridges two legendary eras of motorsport by blending cutting-edge racing technology with the timeless design of 1950s racing cars. With a potent engine, this non-homologated model is the most powerful GT3 vehicle ever produced in Affalterbach, and it stands as the final GT3 version to feature a naturally aspirated engine. Only 13 units of this collector’s item will be available worldwide.
Performance and Aerodynamics: Advanced Features
The Mercedes-AMG GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport goes beyond the standard homologation requirements, allowing the iconic 6.3-litre V8 naturally aspirated engine to be further refined. Without the constraints of an air restrictor and equipped with a specialised exhaust system, the engine now produces an impressive 680hp. The car’s aerodynamics have also been enhanced, resulting in a 15% increase in downforce compared to the base GT3 model. This improvement comes from a redesigned front splitter, new air outlets in the front wings, modified side skirts, an upgraded underfloor, and a re-engineered rear diffuser.
A wider rear wing, combined with the innovative Drag Reduction System (DRS) inspired by Formula 1® and DTM Class 1, allows the car to achieve top speeds exceeding 315km/h. This system adjusts the main rear wing element to reduce drag at the touch of a button, with active front-floor elements ensuring the aero balance is maintained. The braking system, featuring carbon brake discs, further contributes to weight reduction and performance, making the Edition 130Y Motorsport model lighter and more agile than its homologated counterparts.
Power delivery is managed through a sequential six-speed racing transmission with modified gear ratios, while the transaxle transmission is mounted on the rear axle for enhanced stability. Fully adjustable 4-way motorsport shock absorbers and advanced safety features, including a carbon fibre safety cell, five-point harness, steel roll cage, and a comprehensive fire extinguishing system, round out the vehicle’s high-performance package.
Track Record: Setting New Standards
After two years of meticulous development and rigorous testing, Mercedes-AMG Performance Driver Jules Gounon showcased the exceptional capabilities of the GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport at the Mount Panorama Circuit in Australia on February 17, 2024. Driving a prototype, Gounon shattered the GT car lap record by an impressive 2.074 seconds, clocking in at 1 minute and 56.605 seconds on the 6.213km circuit.
Design: A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity
Drawing inspiration from the legendary 1952 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL W 194 racing sports car, the GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport features a design that honours the past while embracing the future. The special edition boasts a unique silver paint finish reminiscent of the iconic Silver Arrows, with blue rhombuses on the front wings and a colour-accented radiator grille harkening back to historic racing victories.
The car is equipped with lightweight 18-inch magnesium rims and extensively incorporates carbon fiber elements, blending classic design cues with modern racing technology. Inside, the connection between tradition and innovation continues, with the interior drawing aesthetic inspiration from the 1955 Mercedes-Benz SLR 300 models. This is evident in the blue checkered seat upholstery and brown leather headrests and door loops, while advanced technologies like the Bosch DDU 10 cockpit display enhance driver control and experience.
Exclusivity: A Complete Package for Collectors
Each of the 13 GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport models comes with an extensive and bespoke delivery package. This includes a specially designed vehicle cover, a full set of personalised racing gear co-created with Mercedes-AMG’s official partner PUMA, and a custom helmet from BELL. Additionally, buyers receive a stylish bag matching the car’s seat cover design and a 1:8 scale model of the GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport. To certify the vehicle’s authenticity, an exclusive, personalized certificate is included, further cementing its status as a prized collector’s item.
The Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series, the sportiest model in the Maybach brand’s history, introduces a refined blend of luxury and performance. This open-top two-seater debuts with two curated design concepts: the Red Ambience, featuring an obsidian black metallic and Manufaktur garnet red metallic finish, and the White Ambience, with obsidian black metallic contrasting against Manufaktur opalite white magno.
The exterior and interior of the Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 are meticulously crafted with the Maybach pattern as a cohesive design element. The car’s interior is adorned with sustainably tanned, crystal white Manufaktur Exclusive Nappa leather and gleaming silver chrome trim.
This luxurious ambience is complemented by the illuminated brand-specific chrome-finished radiator grille and Maybach lettering, along with a distinctive bonnet featuring a chromed fin.
The car’s performance is powered by a 4.0-litre biturbo engine delivering 585hp, paired with a 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission and fully variable 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive. Enhanced driving and acoustic comfort are ensured through noise-optimised exhaust systems, extensive insulation, and a comfort-oriented suspension setup.
In conjunction with the launch, Maybach Icons of Luxury will offer an exclusive collection inspired by the vehicle’s materials and colours. This collection, available in boutiques and online, includes a leather jacket, sneakers, a scarf, a tote bag, and a dog bag, all designed to complement the opulent style of the Mercedes-Maybach SL Monogram Series.
The market rollout of this luxurious model begins in Europe in the spring of 2025, with other markets to follow.
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.
BMW is expanding its lineup with the introduction of the new BMW M5 Touring, a car that promises to deliver a blend of high performance and everyday practicality, making it a standout in the high-performance wagon segment.
At the heart of the new M5 Touring is the M HYBRID drive system, which integrates a 4.4-litre V8 engine with an electric motor. This combination produces an impressive total output, delivering 585hp from the V8 and an additional 197hp from the electric motor. Together, they generate a combined torque of up to 750Nm from the engine and 450Nm from the electric motor. This powertrain allows the M5 Touring to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in just 3.6 seconds. The standard top speed is set at 250km/h, but this can be increased to 305km/h with the optional M Driver’s Package. Additionally, the vehicle boasts an electric range of 61–67km, made possible by an 18.6 kWh high-voltage battery.
The exterior of the M5 Touring is both athletic and muscular, featuring a high proportion of surfaces painted in body colour, complemented by a Black solid finish for the roof. The front of the car is marked by large air intakes and a new BMW M kidney grille, while the rear showcases slim lights, vertical reflectors, and a split diffuser, enhancing the vehicle’s dynamic and aggressive look.
Underpinning the car is a sophisticated chassis setup that includes a double-wishbone front axle and a five-link rear axle, both of which have been tuned specifically for this model. The adaptive M suspension and Integral Active Steering contribute to the car’s exceptional handling and ride quality. The M5 Touring also comes standard with M Compound brakes, though M Carbon ceramic brakes are available as an option. The car rides on M light-alloy wheels, measuring 20 inches at the front and 21 inches at the rear, and is fitted with high-performance tires.
Inside, the M5 Touring features an M-specific, driver-focused cockpit, which includes a newly designed M leather steering wheel and M multifunction seats. The cabin is adorned with Merino leather trim and equipped with four-zone automatic climate control and a Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System, providing a luxurious and comfortable environment. The vehicle also offers a generous cargo space, with a load capacity ranging from 500 to 1,630 litres, and includes features such as Comfort Access and automatic tailgate operation.
In terms of driving assistance and safety, the M5 Touring is equipped with a range of standard features, including front collision warning, Lane Departure Warning, Evasion Assistant, and Speed Limit Info. For those seeking even more advanced capabilities, options such as Driving Assistant Professional and Parking Assistant Professional are available.
The infotainment and connectivity systems are anchored by the latest BMW iDrive system, which is based on Operating System 8.5. This system offers enhanced touchscreen and voice control capabilities. The M5 Touring also features 5G compatibility, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various personalisation options through the BMW ID and My BMW App.
The BMW M5 Touring is set to make its world premiere at Monterey Car Week in mid-August 2024, with the market launch scheduled for November 2024 following the production start at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing. Designed to cater to drivers who demand both a thrilling driving experience and the versatility of a practical and luxurious daily driver, the new BMW M5 Touring is poised to be a significant addition to the BMW lineup.
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.
Italians have long been renowned for their mastery in crafting convertibles, and the new Pininfarina Battista Targamerica is a testament to this legacy. Debuting at Monterey Car Week, this bespoke open-top version of the electric hypercar is a stunning addition to Pininfarina’s illustrious portfolio.
The Targamerica is a one-off creation commissioned by a discerning client who already owns a Battista coupe. While the B95 Speedster was Pininfarina’s first convertible, the Targamerica marks the inaugural open-top version of the Battista. This special edition raises questions about why the Battista wasn’t initially offered as a convertible.
Remarkably, the Targamerica went from concept to reality in just one year, following the client’s commission at last year’s Monterey Car Week. Its striking silver with blue accents pays homage to the Ferrari Testarossa Spider—a unique convertible created in 1986 for Fiat heir Gianni Angelli. Noteworthy features of the Targamerica include a custom rear decklid and distinctive doors, as well as an integrated cigar humidor between the seats, catering to the client’s appreciation for cigars.
The Battista, the flagship model of Automobili Pininfarina—a division of India’s Mahindra based in Germany—is built on the Rimac Nevera’s platform. It boasts a staggering 1,900hp from its four electric motors, making it a formidable contender in the hypercar arena.
The Targamerica will be showcased at The Quail on Friday, with the client set to take delivery afterward. While Automobili Pininfarina has not disclosed plans for additional Battista convertibles, the Targamerica’s debut suggests that this may not be the last of such exclusive models.
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.
