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MID-WEEK FEATURE: BIMS 2018 – Why It’s Still THE BEST In the Region! [Full Photo Gallery]

It’s been about 10 years since I first attended the Bangkok International Motorshow, commonly known as “BIMS” at the IMPACT Challenger just outside Bangkok, Thailand, and I have to say, both in terms of displays and organisation, this is one of the best motorshows in the region, if not THE best. Here was the first walk-around video upon arriving…

BIMS 2018 was held from 28th March to 8th April 2018, and from the time I touched down in Bangkok, till the time I left the show four days later, once again, GPI (Grand Prix International) the organisers of BIMS did a remarkable job ensuring that the media were well taken care of. Facilities included a full-fledged media centre for both local and international media, stocked with food, drinks, lockers, and tables replete with laptops for our use, printers, fax machines (yes, some still use those) and photocopiers. Having settled, it was time to head for the official opening ceremony…

The BIMS show itself is unlike anything in the region, literally. Not so much in the way it’s presented, but for the fact that BIMS is a ‘sales motorshow’ as well, one of the only, anywhere. While the actual display pavilions set-up by the various carmakers are of international standard – i.e. both the BMW and Mercedes-Benz pavilions look like they were brought in wholesale from Geneva or Frankfurt – behind the scenes, or rather display areas, and away from the main gaze of visitors, a frenzy of selling is taking place.

This year, a total of 42,499 vehicles were sold at BIMS, far surpassing their set target of 40,000; a conservative figure set forth from the 38,000 vehicles sold at BIMS 2017 . I also heard from the organiser that in 2017, one particular German brand sold more cars at BIMS than they did for the whole year on the outside. Such is the importance of this show, so much so that Ford decided it would be the perfect venue to launch the much-anticipated Ranger Raptor…

A staggering 1.6 MILLION visitors attended BIMS 2018, and while undoubtedly this was the truck everyone was waiting to see, it was just one of the many attractions to be found at BIMS, which really wouldn’t be complete without the lovely ladies that adorn every pavilion. This year, however, the organisers did something different; a catwalk! So in the span of 30min, everyone was able to meet and say hello to all the girls that would be part of BIMS 2018…

While in this day and age, many may question the need for girls to still be part of a motorshow, as Dr.Prachin Eamlumnow, (below) Chief Executive Officer of Grand Prix International himself put it…

“Cars and beautiful girls go hand-in-hand, both are lovely and both are unique, so why keep them apart; they should both always be celebrated and honoured at a motorshow; one compliments the other.” We tend to agree. So Formula One, you can just suck it for dispensing with them. And it’s not like they just stand there doing nothing at BIMS, for example this Suzuki girl was definitely waxing lyrical about the new bikes that were launched at the show…

Apart from new metal, BIMS holds the distinction of having the only “Used Car Fair” as well. Yes, you read that right, if the new cars don’t tickle your fancy, about a week after the official launch of BIMS, the organisers hold a second launch for the Used Car Show. All the cars sold here are certified and come with warranties, in addition to special ‘motorshow financing schemes’ that offer better and more flexible rates. Krungsri Auto, an official partner of BIMS for five years running, is at hand to assist anyone wishing to buy a used car at the show.

Another attraction of BIMS is the annex hall of IMPACT Challenger, which by the way is the largest piller-less hall in SEA, in which the Car Accessories section is housed. This is a must-stop for anyone visiting BIMS, because car accessories wise, it’s like a one-stop, anything-you-want-under-the-sun type of place. Here’s my walk-around, which in retrospect was ill-advised because I ended up spending half my money here later. Get this, I even found an aftermarket high-flow air-filter from Hurricane for my classic 1983 Mercedes W126 280SE… who the HELL sells stuff like that at a motorshow??? Trust BIMS to have it…

As night falls, the action doesn’t stop. Out the back of IMPACT Challenger, and at one of the many open air venues that’s home to external exhibits as well as test-drives, the car clubs and modders would take centre stage to show off their wares. I caught the tail-end of the modded truck show, and was (almost literally) blown away. The crazy amounts of bass that some of these trucks produce can apparently stop a heart from beating if you get too close….

Well, like I’ve always said, nobody wants to read about a motorshow, so until next year and the 40th Edition of BIMS, here’s the FULL photo gallery of the 39th Bangkok International Motorshow 2018! – Chris Wee.

BIMS 2018 Photo Gallery… (More Videos after the jump)

:::::::: MORE Videos ::::::::

BMW @ BIMS 2018…

Aston Martin @ BIMS 2018…

Suzuki Bikes @ BIMS 2018…

Bikes, Accessories & MORE GIRLS @ BIMS 2018…

Acknowledgement: With heartfelt gratitude, Piston.my (and me personally) would like to thank the organisers of BIMS, Grand Prix International, for the invite to cover this yearly event yet again; GPI are the most gracious hosts I’ve ever had the privilege of meeting, and it’s a genuine pleasure and honour to cover this event annually.Thank you! – Chris Wee.

BIKES: Shell Malaysia Kicks-Off Road Safety Campaign For Bikers

Shell Malaysia has kicked off the 2018 edition of its road safety movement with four major programmes aimed at driving home the importance of road safety among young motorcyclists and youth.

Shell Malaysia Road Safety Movement or fondly known as #ShellSelamatSampai (#SSS) is a Shell Malaysia social investment programme that comprehensively drives road safety awareness and behavioural change among motorcyclists and youth, who contribute to the highest fatality rate in road crashes in Malaysia.

For the first time, Shell Advance, the leading motorcycle engine oil brand in Malaysia, will be actively involved by conducting motorcycle maintenance workshops to inculcate the habit of proactive maintenance and proper lubrication practice. Properly maintained vehicles, including motorcycles, are crucial in reducing the number of road accidents.

This year, #ShellSelamatSampai (#SSS) consists of four main components, namely #SSS School Outreach, #SSS MyLesen, #SSS School Challenge and #SSS Varsity Challenge. The #SSS School Outreach programme will see Shell Malaysia attempt to drive home its ‘Goal Zero’ accident-free zone message through a fun, educational and interactive roadshow to 20 schools nationwide.

In the #SSS MyLesen programme, Shell will sponsor 40 Sabahan students from Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Badin in Tuaran and SMK Inanam in Kota Kinabalu to obtain a valid motorcycle-riding license. The selected students would have the opportunity to undergo training on defensive riding, road safety awareness and how to handle emergencies, and a motorcycle maintenance workshop by Shell Advance. The programme sees a joint effort collaborating Shell Malaysia with the Road Transport Department (JPJ), traffic police (PDRM) and the Ministry of Education.

Meanwhile, the #SSS Varsity Challenge aims to challenge students in six selected universities across the country, namely Curtin University, Monash University, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, Universiti Sains Malaysia and Universiti Teknologi Mara, to develop technical prototypes or devices for road safety intervention that could help prevent road-related accidents among road users with a Grand Prize of RM10,000 in cash awaiting the most impactful, creative and sustainable project.

This year the selected twenty schools nationwide would also take part in in the #SSS School Challenge, which is similar to the #SSS Varsity Challenge in terms of objective and reward. Since 1957, Shell Malaysia has been a strong advocate for the improvement of road safety culture amongst Malaysians. For more information on #ShellSelamatSampai, please visit www.shell.com.my.

Proton In 2018 – Part 3: Getting The Dealers Hyped For The Biggie!

In Early March this year, a group of 33 PROTON dealers got the opportunity to visit one of Geely’s dealer outlets in Shanghai. The dealer visit was established with the focus to enable PROTON dealers to have a real look and experience Geely’s dealer set up and how this experience could be helpful in setting up similar facade and feel here in Malaysia.

For Lum Hon Yoon, of Gagah Murni Sdn Bhd, “It is a good experience being here. We get to see closer how a Geely dealer outlet looks like. There is a good use of space. More importantly, it has different areas for customers to feel comfortable, there are coffee area, discussion area, children area and reading area as well. This means that this place is catered for the whole family. Parents do not have to worry so much as the kids will have a play area, or if the wife needs reading time, then she can occupy the reading area, hence anyone can come and be occupied with something and not be bored while waiting for the car to be serviced,” Lum explained.

These areas serve its purpose and many of the dealers liked the idea, and view it as a modern family needs. “People are always busy and the idea to send in a car for service for a few hours seem like a whole day. With built-in areas such as the discussion area, this could also serve as a meeting point where two or more people can come and have a small discussion. Moreover, the existence of a coffee area means that you do not have to run to the nearest Starbucks or Coffee Bean just to get your morning or afternoon coffee fix to get your day going,” observed Aw Chiew Soon, of Warna Bestari Sdn Bhd.

Razali Ahmad, of Erakars Sdn Bhd shared similar views. “The showroom area is more or less like the ones we currently have in PROTON outlets. What separates it is the spacious waiting area and the comfortable rest area that looks like your home living room, which is what I anticipate customers will like the most. The additional facilities becomes the pull factor in attracting customers to come service their cars. At least patrons can occupy their time in the most productive ways, so overall it is a plus factor”.
For some other dealers, what impressed them was the smart uniform, and their professional ways of greeting the PROTON entourage.

“As for me, the spaciousness of the waiting area is an appealing idea. More so, what impresses me is their uniform. The guys and girls all look so smart. This is also good for business. Customers who come in, could feel the ‘one ness’ in their approach. For us, it is all about attracting customers to showroom,” explained Azizulmu’min Mohd Hussein Malim, of Rohamas Corporation Sdn Bhd.

“Furthermore, when sales and service staff speak the same language, be it in terms of uniform, or approach, it confers a lot of confidence amongst the customers, hence selling a product becomes easier, aside from good product knowledge,” Azizulmu’min said.

Footnote from the Editor: So our dear Proton Dealers, are you convinced yet? Other carmakers have been offering this kind of customer service at their premises here for decades, thus it really isn’t asking too much for ALL Proton outlets to do the same now, is it? – Chris Wee.

The Fullerton Concours d’Elegance In Singapore Is Coming!

The inaugural Fullerton Concours d’Elegance, a three-day celebration, is set to transform The Fullerton Heritage precinct in Singapore from 29^th June to 1^st July, 2018. Organised as the pinnacle event to mark the 90^th anniversary of the iconic Fullerton Building, now home to The Fullerton Hotel Singapore, it offers visitors a diverse range of activities and experiences that embody the building’s rich heritage and the brand’s passion for luxury hospitality and lifestyle.

Anchoring the event will be a showcase of more than 90 vintage and classic cars, as well as supercars from around the world, taking visitors on a journey through time across The Fullerton Heritage precinct. Other highlights include gala dinners, live music performances, art and cultural exhibitions, workshops, family fun activities, luxury yacht displays and charity car convoys set against a panoramic view.

Cavaliere Giovanni Viterale, General Manager, The Fullerton Heritage, said, “As one of the most iconic colonial buildings in Singapore, The Fullerton Building has been preserved with the highest form of recognition for its national significance. Likewise, the Fullerton Concours d’Elegance represents the pinnacle in automotive heritage and excellence, celebrating the best in collector and car design. The event will be a fitting showcase that not only pays tribute to the heritage of the Grand Dame, but also celebrates the building’s continued relevance in bringing the community together and creating shared memories.”

The Fullerton Building was gazetted as a National Monument on 7^th December 2015 in recognition of its pivotal role in Singapore’s history. It previously housed the General Post Office, once the “most important post office in the East,” and served as “Mile Zero” from which all of Singapore was measured. Today, the Fullerton Building serves as the cornerstone of The Fullerton Heritage precinct, which comprises seven key establishments: The Fullerton Hotel Singapore, The Fullerton Bay Hotel Singapore, The Fullerton Waterboat House, One Fullerton, The Fullerton Pavilion, Clifford Pier and Customs House.

Activities have been curated to ensure there is something for everyone. Highlights of the celebration include:

An unprecedented tribute to automotive excellence

The preeminent Concours d’Elegance (competition of elegance) showcases some of the finest examples of pre-war and post-war collector cars in terms of history, craftsmanship, power and technology. Restored vintage cars from the 1920s, antique cars from the 1930s, classic cars from the 1970s, and modern marvels will be prominently displayed along the picturesque waterfront at Clifford Square and Clifford Pier, in the iconic Fullerton Hotel Singapore and at Fullerton Square.

Highlights include the classic 1934 Austin Seven Ulster Special, which boasts an aluminium body with no doors, a 1961 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II from the hotel’s recently restored Rolls-Royce fleet, and the legendary Lamborghini Miura previously owned by Don Miura himself. Visitors will be the first in the region to see the 2018 Rolls-Royce Dawn Black Badge and 2018 Ferrari Portofino. Additionally, innovative electric car prototypes created by the students from Nanyang Technological University will be displayed at One Fullerton.

For the first time in Singapore, visitors can also view the largest display of cars owned by His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar, Sultan and Sovereign Ruler of the State and Territory of Johor Darul Ta’zim.

Admission to the Fullerton Concours d’Elegance starts from S$9.90 *(RM 29.30) for a Single-Day Pass. Gold Passes are also available for access to VIP areas and the after-party at Lantern in The Fullerton Bay Hotel. Children under five years old will enjoy free admission.

More… For the full press release and to know more about the Fullerton Concourse d’Elegance, click here: Press Release – The Fullerton Concours d’Elegance_160418_CRE

For more information about the car list, to vote for your favourite cars and purchase tickets, visit http://www.fullertonconcours.com/.

Brabham Automotive Teases Upcoming BT62! [+Videos]

Mere weeks ahead of its official debut, Brabham Automotive has released headline figures and a teaser image for the much-anticipated Brabham BT62!

The teaser image shows the rear of a low-slung, race-inspired car. The BT62’s thin LED accent tail lights are reflected in its extreme carbon fibre rear wing, which points to the car’s performance potential. Have a look, with more tech details in this video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=906OJ–6fjg

With performance characteristics that point to the potency of the car, the new Brabham is pure-bred for the track and capable of setting blistering lap times, designed and engineered to demand more from the driver and reward the limited few who will rise to its challenge. The BT62 boasts a power-to-weight ratio of 730ps per tonne, a dry weight of just 972kg and is powered by a Brabham naturally-aspirated 5.4 litre capacity V8 engine. Have a listen!

With its performance-optimised body and aggressive aerodynamic package, the Brabham BT62 delivers over 1200kg of downforce. Saving additional weight and with additive performance, the BT62’s brakes are carbon/carbon – a current Formula 1 technology that was first introduced to the sport by Brabham in 1976 – featuring six pistons front and rear. Here’s more…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QDg7qvL1sTE

Celebrating seventy years since Sir Jack Brabham launched his racing career in Australia in 1948, production of the Brabham BT62 will be limited to just seventy cars. With a price of £1m plus local taxes, and before options, orders are being taken now, and first deliveries are expected later this year. Owners of the BT62 will join a Brabham driver development programme which will enable them to fully exploit the performance of the vehicle on the track.

For more news from Brabham and the BT62, log on to:

brabhamautomotive.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/brabhamauto

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brabhamauto

The Ferrari Portofino Tour – 20 Cars Drive Across Europe [+Video]

The Ferrari Portofino was the undisputed star of a Europe-wide tour that hit the road on 16 April. The famous Ligurian town, that both gave the car its name and played host to a world premiere attended by hundreds of clients in September 2017, provided the starting line from which 20 examples of the new Ferrari departed to over 60 cities across the continent.

The Prancing Horse’s most loyal enthusiasts and collectors were treated to a truly exclusive preview of the car’s prowess as they took turns behind the wheel of the Ferrari Portofino on Europe’s most beautiful roads to experience the car’s performance across a wide variety of conditions.

Three alternating itineraries crisscrossed very different terrains, ranging from the rolling Tuscan hills to the slopes of the Alps, the Cote d’Azur, the Scandinavian Peninsula, Stockholm Bay and the Port of Belfast. Settings that of course provided the perfect showcase for the driving pleasure and versatility of this stunning convertible GT, permitting clients to savour the V8 engine’s 600hp, the handling and superior in-car comfort that put it at the top its category.

BMW Group Malaysia Launches All-New CKD X3 SAV @ RM320,000! [+Videos & Photo Gallery]

BMW Group Malaysia has introduced the All-New BMW X3, which will be locally-assembled (CKD) for the first time in the country, allowing its price to be RM320,000. This demonstrates BMW Group Malaysia’s commitment to growing its investments here in Malaysia, a move that further emphasises Malaysia as the hub for the BMW Group in South East Asia.

Mr. Harald Hoelzl, (above) Managing Director and CEO of BMW Group Malaysia said, “Today, we celebrate a new generation of the BMW X3, which in the history of the premium automotive industry, is the creator of the mid-sized premium SAV segment in 2003. This is a perfect example on the BMW belief that the best way to predict the future is to create it. With over two generations of the BMW X3, we have delivered more than 1.5 million vehicles to lead the segment all over the world. Today, the All-New BMW X3 is set to continue to write the next chapter in BMW’s success story in the premium segment.”

Hoelzl added that with over 1,000 units already delivered in 2018, the BMW X Family is enjoying a significant 39% growth in Malaysia, compared to the same period last year. Driving this performance is The Boss – the BMW X5, and the First-Ever BMW X2. Now, with the All-New BMW X3, BMW Group Malaysia looks forward to pushing the BMW X Family further this year.

“For the very first time, the independent and passionate BMW X3 is made available from launch as a locally assembled vehicle to offer our customers here a wider choice and availability of products as well as a differentiation, option and a mix from our offering of fully imported models in the premium sports activity vehicle segment,” Hoelzl said.

Overall, BMW Group Malaysia delivered 3,000 BMW, MINI and Motorrad vehicles in the first quarter of 2018, charting an impressive 15% growth compared to the same period last year with 2,600 vehicles delivered. In the details, the BMW brand saw an 18% growth in deliveries with over 2,500 new vehicles in the first quarter of 2018 (Q12017: 2,100 vehicles).

MINI, meanwhile, grew by 6% – delivering over 220 vehicles compared to the same period in 2017 where 200 vehicles were delivered. While BMW Motorrad grew by 2% in the first quarter of 2018 with close to 260 motorcycles delivered to customers.

The new locally-assembled BMW X3 is priced at RM320,000 (OTR w/o insurance)

More on the new BMW X3…

The All-New BMW X3 now sports an even more striking and dynamic design language, boasting class leading driving systems and dynamics – all of which attribute to All-New BMW X3’s independent spirit. “It is only fair that the All-New BMW X3 is called The Independent in the BMW X Family,” Hoelzl said.

The All-New BMW X3 is introduced in the variant of the BMW X3 xDrive30i Luxury. The dynamic handling qualities of the All-New BMW X3 are rooted in its ideal 50:50 weight distribution, its meticulously honed chassis and the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system, which made its debut in 2003 when the first generation of the BMW X3 was launched.

Sharper Design with Distinctive Looks.

The All-New BMW X3 elevates the already bold dynamic design language of its predecessor to new, even more eye-catching territory. The third generation of the pioneering premium mid-sized Sports Activity Vehicle treads a familiar BMW X family path in combining rugged off-road looks with sporting presence. The exterior dimensions of the All-New BMW X3 may be largely unchanged, but its five-centimetre-longer wheelbase, long bonnet and short front overhang with even more finely balanced proportions – which emphasise the perfect 50:50 distribution of weight between the front and rear axle – give it the edge over its predecessor.

At the front end, the “three-dimensional” kidney grille treatment and foglamps featuring a hexagonal design for the very first time on a BMW X model, underline the confident character of the All-New BMW X3. The SAV features LED headlights with low-beam and high-beam, side lights and cornering lights. The All-New BMW X3 also features high-beam assistant which switches head lights to high beam automatically when needed. The underbody protection in Frozen Grey and high-gloss Chrome. The All-New BMW X3 sits on 19” light alloy wheels Double Spoke bicolour Ferric Grey.

Moving to the rear, the light clusters (whose three-dimensional look in full-LED guise give them significant visual impact), markedly downward-sloping roof spoiler and twin exhaust tailpipes bring matters to a suitably muscular conclusion. The cargo space offers versatility as it can be expanded from 550 litres to 1,600 litres when the seats are folded down. The Comfort Access with contactless boot operation allows for added user-convenience with keyless access to the vehicle, including contactless access to the tailgate.

Supreme Driving Pleasure, Exceptional Efficiency.

The cutting-edge BMW TwinPower Turbo 2.0 in-line four-cylinder petrol engine sits at the heart of the All-New BMW X3, which comprises of TwinScroll turbocharging, High Precision Injection, Double-VANOS variable camshaft control and Valvetronic fully variable valve timing. With an 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission, the All-New BMW X3 is capable of sprinting from 0-100km in 6.3 seconds at a top speed of 240 km/h. The All-New BMW X3 is capable of generating a maximum output of 252hp and 350Nm of torque, offering supreme driving pleasure with exceptional efficiency. For the full spec sheet, click here: BMW X3 Spec Sheet_Peninsular Malaysia

With the intelligent lightweight construction, the All-New BMW X3 is up to 55kg lighter than its predecessor, which translates to superior dynamic performance and outstanding efficiency. With that in mind, the All-New BMW X3 also has the lowest aerodynamics with a C_d factor of 0.29. The lower the factor, the less drag the body will induce. As a result, a balance between a dynamic yet efficient design is achieved.

Furthermore, the standard Driving Experience Control switch allows the driver choose between various configurations – i.e. ECO PRO, COMFORT, SPORT and SPORT+ modes, all of which are designed to make the vehicle more dynamic, more comfortable or more efficient to drive.

Perfect Off-Road Prowess.

The dynamic handling qualities of the All-New BMW X3 are rooted in its ideal 50:50 weight distribution, its meticulously honed chassis and the xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system. Not only has the system been offering superior grip on slippery surfaces ever since, it has had a beneficial effect on driving dynamics, too. It is interlinked with the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) meaning that the power split between all four wheels can be constantly varied to always produce the handling characteristics for which BMW is renowned, even when the driver is pressing on. Complementing the off-road capabilities of the All-New BMW X3 is Hill Descent Control which helps maintain the SAV at a steady pace when driving down a steep incline.

Comfort-Oriented Interior with a Luxurious Ambience.

The interior of the All-New BMW X3 follows BMW tradition with its driver-focused and ergonomically optimised cockpit layout and carries over many aspects of the car’s exterior design. For instance, hexagonal forms and precise, bevelled edges play a central role in the interior. The interior displays exceptional material quality, fit and finishing, and impresses functionality-wise. One example here is the well-thought-out storage concept, which offers more storage space than ever before and ensures it is easier to access as well as galvanised plating on the air conditioning, audio and steering controls which is luxury to the sight and touch within the premium vehicle.

Evidence of the attention to detail lavished by the designers on the interior of the All-New BMW X3 includes the exclusive BMW X embossing which is highly visible on the B-pillar, enter console and rear door trim. Partially hidden BMW X embossing can also be spotted between the front door and dashboard end.

Upon entering the All-New BMW X3, the driver will be welcomed into the Leather Vernasca with contrast stitching sports seat, with padded side bolsters and eye-catching shoulder section. The dashboard is also set low to offer the distinctive “Command Position”, leaving the driver with a feeling of being in control with a good all-round vision.

With the Luxury Line, the All-New BMW X3 offers leather upholstery, a Sensatec-covered instrument panel with contrast stitching and Dark Oak fine wood interior trim strips with accent strip in Pearl Chrome. The All-New BMW X3 also comes with 6 ambient light colours tones (orange, lilac, mint, bronze, blue and white) with selectable contour and mood lighting.

The All-New BMW X3 also features a rear camera, with Park Distance Control which provides an acoustic and visual (distance only) warning of the obstacle behind the vehicle. To assist the driver further, the Parking Assistant aids with automatic parking into parallel and lateral parking spaces.

Technology and Communication.

In the All-New BMW X3, the new Multifunctional instrument display with Black Panel technology replaces the traditional gauge cluster which has been a common fixture in the page. Besides displaying a breadth of information such as navigation, the three different driving modes – ECO PRO, COMFORT, and SPORT – and their specific displays have their own colour scheme and graphic style.

The 10.25-inch Central Information Display is located above the instrument panel of the All-New BMW X3 with touch control functionality, providing a quick overview of the most pertinent information and offers users intuitive access. With the BMW ConnectedDrive, owners will have seamless connectivity to their car and the world outside. To further enhance driver experience, the All-New BMW X3 also comes with the Welcome Light Carpet, creating a sophisticated atmosphere when approaching the vehicle.

In terms of external colour offering, the All-New BMW X3 offers new and bold colours of Terra Brown, Black Sapphire, Glacier Silver and Alpine White. On the interior, the Leather Vernasca Black is best paired with Alpine White, Black Sapphire, Glacier Silver and Terra Brown; whereas the Leather Vernasca Mokka is best paired with Alpine White and Black Sapphire. The All-New BMW X3 will be available at all authorised BMW dealerships nationwide from Wednesday, 25^th April 2018*, with deliveries commencing in July 2018*.

Complete Premium Ownership Experience.

Customers of the All-New BMW X3 can also experience the complete BMW Group Malaysia Premium Ownership experience which includes:

BMW 5-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Scheduled Service Program.
BMW 2-Year/ 24 Month Tyre Warranty Program for its Run Flat Tyre offering and services.
BMW Roadside Assistance and Accident Hotline.
The BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile App – BMW White Card.
BMW Service Online.

Full BMW X3 Press Release in Bahasa Malaysia & Chinese here:

Siaran Akhbar – BMW Group Malaysia Perkenalkan BMW X3 Terbaharu

媒体资讯 – 大马BMW集团推出全新BMW X3

New BMW X3 Photo Gallery…

SDAC Introduces Ford Ranger Wildtrak 2.2 @ RM127,888!

Lusting for a Ford Ranger Wildtrak 3.2 but can’t bear the thought of exorbitant annual road-tax? Well good news! Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC), the sole distributor of Ford in Malaysia, has announced the latest addition to the popular Ranger line-up – the Ford Ranger Wildtrak 2.2L – at all showrooms nationwide.

Priced at RM127,888¹ (*RM133,888² – for Sabah & Sarawak), the new Ranger Wildtrak 2.2L offers Malaysian consumers an additional option to own one of the world’s toughest, most capable and versatile pickup trucks that best suits their needs at an even more attractive pricepoint.

To balance power and fuel efficiency, the Ford Ranger Wildtrak 2.2L is powered by a turbocharged 2.2-litre Duratorq four-cylinder TDCi diesel engine putting out maximum power of 160PS at 3,000 rpm and peak torque of 385Nm at 1,600 to 2,600 rpm. Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, the improved engine has been carefully calibrated to deliver significant savings to drivers over the life of the vehicle, while also providing the power Ranger customers demand.

The Ford Ranger Wildtrak 2.2L comes in three colours including Cool White, Pride Orange and Shadow Black. “The Ranger continues to be a Malaysian favourite, and the Wildtrak 2.2L will give Ranger customers even more choice to own the toughest, most capable pickup truck in the market,” said Syed Ahmad Muzri Syed Faiz, managing director, Sime Darby Auto Connexion.

For the FULL details on the new Ford Ranger 2.2L Wildtrak, click here: New Ford Ranger 2.2L Wildtrak

To celebrate the launch of the Ranger Wildtrak 2.2L and SDAC’s 10-year anniversary, customers who register to purchase any Ranger model from now to 30 June 2018 will stand to win a grand prize of one Ford Fiesta 1.5L Sport. There are also 15 units of Huawei Mate 10 Pro Smartphones up for grabs. Winners will be determined through monthly lucky draw, with five smartphones to win each month. The grand prize winner will be announced after the final draw in June.

For more information, visit SDAC’s multilingual website (www.sdacford.com.my), which also features a chat-bot in English.

RM127,888 – Price inclusive of GST, on-the-road without insurance for Peninsular Malaysia and private registration only.
*RM133,888 – Price inclusive of GST, on-the-road without insurance for Sabah & Sarawak and private registration only.

Range Rover Velar Officially Launched In Malaysia! [+Videos & Mega Photo Gallery]

The new Range Rover Velar which has just been launched nationwide brings a new dimension of glamour, modernity and elegance to the Range Rover family. Designed and engineered based on ‘reductionism’ and elegant simplicity, this new luxurious mid-sized SUV has a unique character incomparable with other SUVs in its class.

With a starting price of RM529,800 the Velar features pioneering consumer technologies such as the flush deployable door handles and the Touch Pro Duo infotainment system which is the centrepiece of the Velar’s interior. The Touch Pro Duo features two 10-inch high-definition touchscreens integrated seamlessly behind secret-until-lit surfaces. These slim, intuitive displays work in harmony with the cabin architecture while adding an overall sense of modernity to the vehicle’s design.

The Touch Pro Duo system allows the driver to multitask with greater safety by using two screens simultaneously. When travelling to a new destination, the lower screen can be used to make a call without losing the navigation on the upper screen. Other technology-advanced features include a Head Up Display**, Interactive Driver Display and Navigation Pro.

Winner of the Car Design of the Year at the 2018 World Car Awards, the Velar carries a progressive design featuring a seductive silhouette, flush deployable door handles, integrated rear spoiler as well as distinctive design cues from the front bumper to the rear of the vehicle, foil stamped grille and Matrix LED Headlights. The twin chrome exhaust finishers** that are integrated into the rear bumper, provide a subtle reference to the Velar’s power and performance.

Zooming into some of the Velar’s high-tech features:

Flush Deployable Door Handles

The flush deployable door handles are unique to the Velar in the Land Rover family. A futuristic feature, the door handles deploy when the vehicle is unlocked and the handles retract once the vehicle is locked. The door handles contribute to the low drag coefficient of only 0.32, making it the most aerodynamically-efficient Land Rover ever produced.

Matrix LED Headlights

The most slender ever to appear on a Land Rover vehicle, these boldly designed Matrix LED headlights produce a quality of light close to daylight, giving excellent illumination and reducing eye fatigue.

3-inch Interactive Driver Display

The new Interactive Driver Display makes driving the Velar more interesting especially with four visual themes and a full-screen 3D navigation display.

Touted as a calming sanctuary, the interior of the Velar is uncluttered, exquisite in detailing and offers exceptional refinement with the use of premium and luxury materials. The instrument panel’s strong, horizontal beam is the defining element of the Velar’s interior architecture. It rakes back dramatically towards the windscreen to create the fastest angle of any Land Rover and underlines the Velar’s dynamic driving characteristics. The slender air vents reinforce the Velar’s reductive, technology-enabled design.

Fortified with the Sports-Command driving position, the Velar’s front seats balance its performance-oriented design and support with opulent comfort. Meticulously weight-optimised and designed to liberate additional interior space and legroom, the seats have also been carefully sculpted for ease of entry and egress to and from the cabin.

Kvadrat highly durable wool-blend premium textile contrasted with Suede cloth is made optional for customers who prefer the option over the perforated grained leather for the P250 variant or perforated leather with suede cloth*** that comes with the R-Dynamic variant. Kvadart is Europe’s leading manufacturer of high-quality design textiles. The use of Kvadart premium textile in the Velar is unique to luxury SUVs of this segment.

***Depending on interior colour choice

The Velar’s body is built with aluminium-intensive monocoque using Jaguar Land Rover’s Lightweight Aluminium Architecture. Aluminium alloys account for more than 81 percent of the body-in-white – a figure no competitor can match. Its light, stiff, aluminium-intensive body, together with double-wishbone front and Integral Link rear suspension provides the perfect basis for agile handling, superior ride comfort and outstanding refinement. It also delivers exceptional levels of crash protection that the Velar has been developed to meet.

It is also one of the safest vehicles due to its comprehensive safety system that includes six airbags and a suite of technology advanced driver assistance systems including Head Up Display**, Navigation Pro System and Cruise Control Speed Limiter.

The Velar delivers exceptional composure and agility on-road, as well as class-leading capability off-road. The most significant of these is an intelligent, efficient, torque on-demand all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, which provides the optimum torque distribution to suit various road conditions. Depending on road conditions, it can make the transition from 100 percent rear bias to fully locked in only 165 milliseconds; transient torque delivery to the front axle can take as little as 100 milliseconds. This makes the AWD system incredibly responsive, delivering exceptional performance in all conditions.

Exceptional performance and efficiency comes from its Ingenium powertrain, that is matched to a smooth-shifting ZF eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive with Intelligent Driveline Dynamics. The Velar is fitted with the P250 powertrain. It is the first of the two new petrol engines that develops peak power of 250PS and high maximum torque of 365Nm, which is maintained from just 1,200rpm to 4,500rpm. This means that the Velar can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 6.7 seconds and return an impressive 7.6-litres/100km and 173g/km CO₂ on the European combined cycle.

When purchasing the Velar, customers can choose from the following options:

Velar (P250) – RM529,800*
Velar R-Dynamic (P250) – RM588,800*

*Selling price is inclusive of 6% GST. Excludes Road Tax, Registration and Insurance.

The Velar is available in eight exterior colours i.e Fuji White, Yulong White, Corris Grey, Santorini Black, Kaikoura Stone, Firenze Red, Silicon Silver and Carpathian Grey; five interior colour options of Ebony/Ebony, Acorn, Vintage Tan/Ebony, Eclipse/Ebony and Light Oyster/Ebony. The Velar (P250) comes standard with 20-inch rims while the Velar R-Dynamic (P250) comes with 21-inch rims.

Designed and engineered at Jaguar Land Rover’s development centres in the UK, the Velar is manufactured at the company’s Solihull production facility.

All vehicles distributed by Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia are compatible with the Malaysian climate, environment, fuel quality and meet the Malaysian emission standard. All Land Rover vehicles distributed by authorised dealers also come with Land Rover Care programme which includes a five-year warranty, five years’ free service and three years’ roadside assistance. Please visit www.landrover.com.my for more information.

**Available only with the R-Dynamic.

BIKES: Modenas Launches Dominar D400 At Incredible RM13,788! [+Video]

This has got to be the the bike deal of the decade! Motosikal dan Enjin Nasional Sdn Bhd (MODENAS) has launched the highly anticipated Dominar D400 sports tourer, the company’s first big bike in nearly two decades as it continues to up its game in the local market. Fully loaded even with ABS as standard, the Dominar D400 is priced at an incredible RM13,788! No, that’s not a typo…

The launch of Dominar D400 is aimed at bringing the sports touring culture to Malaysia by offering the combination of satisfying power for short sprints and smooth power delivery for long distance touring. It is the perfect mid-size sports tourer, with a design and riding posture (upright) that will enhance the riding experience.

Once again, MODENAS has disrupted the market by announcing a pocket-friendly introductory price of RM13,788 (excluding GST) for the Dominar D400. The bike also comes with a two-year or 24,000 km warranty (whichever comes first) and five free services.

(L-R) MODENAS Chief Executive Officer Amirudin Abd Kadir, DRB-HICOM Chief Operating Officer Dato’ Abdul Harith Abdullah & Bajaj Auto Limited Vice-President – International Business Dinesh Kulkarni with the Dominar D400

Dato’ Abdul Harith Abdullah (above, on bike), Chief Operating Officer – Automotive Distribution, Defence, Manufacturing & Engineering, DRB-HICOM Berhad, expressed confidence that the Dominar D400 would appeal to Malaysians with its distinctive, modern design and a competitive price which made it perfect as a daily work commute and a weekend touring machine.

“The demand for street bikes is set to grow with the increasing preference amongst youth who enjoy carving out a fast-paced lifestyle for themselves. The success of the Pulsar and the V15 in our local market has reinforced our belief that it is right time to provide this new offering which will undoubtedly enrich the riding experience of the average Malaysian motorcycle enthusiast,” he said.

Dinesh Kulkarni, (below, right) Vice President, Bajaj Auto Limited, said that the Dominar D400 was built to offer a superb touring experience, with a growing base of satisfied owners across the globe; from Latin America and Europe to South Asia and now, Southeast Asia.

“Recently, the Dominar D400 successfully completed one of the world’s longest motorable journeys, the Trans-Siberian Odyssey covering 15,000 km in 53 days. The journey from Uzbekistan to Russia, which passed through six countries, was successfully completed without a single breakdown and showcased the bike’s comfort and power and its pedigree as a true a sports tourer,” he said.

Based on one of the best 400 cc bikes in India produced by Bajaj, the Dominar D400 is powered by a liquid-cooled 373 cc, four-valve engine with digital triple spark ignition (DTS-i) and fuel injection with a maximum power of 35 hp at 8,000 rpm. Additionally, 28 Nm of the total available torque of 35 Nm is available at 3,000 rpm, which makes riding extremely smooth due to the available power.

It is paired with a six-speed transmission with a slipper clutch and equipped with dual channel ABS to deliver outstanding performance, handling and safety. The suspension comprises telescopic 43mm forks at the front and a multi-step adjustable mono-shock at the rear for a sporty ride. A curb weight of 182 kg and fuel tank capacity of 13 litres makes the Dominar D400 is ideal for both short sprints and long tours.

The MODENAS Dominar D400 is the fourth product in the street bike segment to emerge from the company’s successful collaboration with Bajaj. Here’s a look at it in action!

NB: The Pulsar NS200 naked street bike, RS200 race bike and the retro-styled V15 have sold a combined total of more than 4,500 units since their launch in May 2017, enabling MODENAS to capture 23% of the market in the 250 cc and below street bike segment. In the financial year 2017/18, MODENAS sold more than 41,800 units, a 47% increase compared to the financial year 2016/17