English Archives

Porsche Cayenne Plug-In Hybrid Introduced!

Looks like Porsche is expanding its range of hybrids even further: the new Cayenne E-Hybrid combines the best driving dynamics in its class with maximum efficiency. A three-litre V6 engine (250 kW/340 hp) combines with an electric engine (100 kW/136 hp) to generate system power of 340 kW (462 hp). The maximum torque of 700 Nm is already available just above idling speed; the boost strategy matches that of the 918 Spyder supercar.

The Cayenne’s plug-in hybrid drive enables acceleration from 0 to 100kmh in 5.0 seconds and a maximum speed of 253kmh. The new Cayenne E-Hybrid can drive up to a distance of 44km and speed of 135kmh on electricity alone. The average consumption in the New European Drive Cycle (NEDC), depending on the set of tyres used, is 3.4 – 3.2 l/100 km of fuel and 20.9 – 20.6 kWh/100 km of electricity. Alongside the launch of the Cayenne E-Hybrid, Porsche is expanding its range of comfort and assistance systems for the entire Cayenne series with additional options such as the new head-up display, massage seats and 22-inch light metal wheels.

More on the Porsche Cayenne Plug-in Hybrid…

462 horsepower system power with 918 Spyder boost concept
The next stage in Porsche’s journey towards e-mobility is the Cayenne E-Hybrid. While the performance of the combustion engine moderately improves on its predecessor by five kW (Seven hp) to 250 kW (340 hp), the performance of the electric engine is now over 43 per cent higher at 100 kW (136 hp). Both combine for a total system power of 340 kW (462 hp).

The boost strategy derived from the 918 Spyder supercar is a new addition. It ensures that the electric engine can be used in all the standard Sport Chrono Package’s driving modes for an additional performance boost. This means the maximum system torque becomes available as you press the accelerator pedal.

Depending on the driving situation and performance requirements, drivers can continue to draw on the boost torque across the entire range of speeds. This leads to a more agile and superior driving experience. The extent of the boost support and battery charging during the journey depend on the driving mode. In the performance-focused Sport and Sport Plus modes, virtually all of the battery’s energy can be used for a boost. In Sport mode, the battery is charged just as much as is required for a new boost. In Sport Plus mode, the battery is recharged as quickly as possible. The other modes support maximum driving efficiency.

Charging with the Porsche Connect app and Porsche Charging Service
Battery capacity has improved significantly in the Cayenne E-Hybrid, along with the distance on electricity and the boost reserves: in comparison to the previous model, capacity increased from 10.8 to 14.1 kWh. This is an increase of around 30 per cent. The fluid-cooled battery, stored beneath the loading floor in the rear of the car, consists of eight cell modules with 13 prismatic lithium ion cells each. Within 7.8 hours, the high-voltage battery is charged fully via a 230 volt connection with ten amps. if the optional 7.2 kilowatt on-board charger and a 230 volt connection with 32 amps are used as an alternative to the standard 3.6 kilowatt charger, the battery is ‘filled up’ again after only 2.3 hours.

The charging process can be managed and monitored via Porsche Communication Management (PCM) and remotely using the Porsche Connect app. The independent climate control, i.e. heating and air conditioning when the ignition is switched off, is available as standard and can also be individually controlled via smartphone. Porsche Connect can also be used to find and filter charging stations and set them as a navigation destination. The new Porsche Charging Service allows cross-provider access to public charging stations – without requiring additional registration with the relevant provider. This is billed directly via the Porsche ID account.

New hybrid module and rapid switching Tiptronic S
Porsche has redesigned the Cayenne E-Hybrid’s drive train. The hybrid module consists of a highly-integrated combination of electric engine and separating clutch. In contrast to the previous electro-hydraulic system with the spindle actuator, the separating clutch is operated electromechanically, which ensures even faster reaction times. The transmission acquires the new Tiptronic S, newly developed for the entire Cayenne range with eight speeds. The automatic gearbox not only offers even more comfortable and smoother starting but also significantly speeds up switching. Interruption of tractive force during switching processes has also been reduced further.

Active hang-on all-wheel drive and 3.5 ton trailer load
With Porsche Traction Management (PTM), the Cayenne E-Hybrid has an active hang-on all-wheel drive with an electronically regulated, map-controlled multiplate clutch. With its broad range of torque distribution, the system offers clear benefits in terms of driving dynamics, agility, traction control and offroad capabilities. Thanks to the brand new chassis, Cayenne E-Hybrid offers the same sports car driving dynamics as all models of the new Cayenne generation. Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) is available as standard. Optional features include the electric Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) roll stabilisation system and a trailer connection for loads up to 3.5 tonnes.

New options: head-up display and 22-inch light metal wheels
With the launch of the Cayenne E-Hybrid, Porsche is expanding its range of assistance systems and optional features for the entire series with a variety of innovations. For the first time, head-up display is available in a Porsche. It projects all the relevant driving information directly into the driver’s line of vision in a full-colour display. Other new features now available in the Cayenne are the smart digital copilot Porsche InnoDrive with adaptive cruise control, massage seats, a heated windscreen, independent heating with remote operation and 22-inch light metal wheels.

NB:
Fuel consumption and emissions ²⁾
Cayenne E-Hybrid: Fuel consumption combined 3.4 – 3.2 l/100 km; CO2emissions 78 – 72 g/km; energy consumption: 20.9 – 20.6 kWh/100 km

¹⁾ The maximum electric range fluctuates between 42 and 44 km depending on the set of tyres used.
²⁾ Range depends on set of tyres used.

Volkswagen Malaysia Sertai SOCAR – Revolusi Perkongsian Kereta Malaysia

(more…)

Volkswagen M’sia Joins SOCAR – The Malaysian Car-sharing Revolution

A fleet of 50 Volkswagen Polo 1.6’s will adorn the SOCAR logo and serve the car-sharing programme in the Klang Valley. SOCAR which launched in Kuala Lumpur just three months ago is continuing to reshape the way Malaysians think about mobility by leading the ‘multiflex movement’.

Key to SOCAR’s success is fast expansion which provides increased availability and convenience for their members. Another important element is to complement varying lifestyles and bring joy to the drivers on the platform. “The beauty of the car-sharing model is that as a member, you have several types of cars at your fingertips serving your different needs from a leisurely cruise out of the city to a trunk heavy trip to Ikea,” says Chief Executive Officer of SOCAR Malaysia, Leon Foong.

Signing Volkswagen as one of their preferred partners is just the beginning. “The Volkswagen Polo was a natural choice for SOCAR’s fleet expansion,” adds Foong, “because it is the perfect city car, offering an assuredly safe, yet fun quality drive. It is also one of the world’s most widely produced car models.” He also says that the current demographic of SOCAR users in Malaysia are in their mid-30s, who want to try new car models or are households that need to use a second or third car from time to time.

“We are pleased to collaborate with SOCAR. Through this partnership, we are able to offer the members of the public easy access to Volkswagen cars and have them enjoy its German engineered capabilities. The Polo is perfect for city driving, though it may be small in stature it offers a dynamic drive without compromising on safety and comfort,” says Erik Winter, Managing Director of Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM).

The first batch of 21 Volkswagen Polo cars have been delivered with the remaining 29 due by mid-May. The Polo 1.6 hatchback comes equipped with a 1.6-litre 105PS petrol injection 16-Valve Multi Point Injection (MPI) engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic, the Polo 1.6 comes with a maximum torque of 153Nm available at a low 3800rpm with fuel consumption at 6.3L per 100km.

SOCAR app is available for download from the App Store and Google Play Store. The Volkswagen Polo for the month of May is priced starting from RM13.90 per hour which is inclusive of petrol and comprehensive insurance.

For more information, visit www.socar.my

Mercedes-Benz Hap Seng Star Opens New Puchong South Autohaus

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia together with authorised dealer, Hap Seng Star Sdn Bhd, recently launched the Mercedes-Benz Hap Seng Star Puchong South Autohaus. To-date, Hap Seng has invested a total of RM250 million in expanding its customer touchpoints nationwide, with an investment of RM6 million for the Hap Seng Star Puchong South Autohaus alone.

(From Left): Hap Seng Consolidated Berhad, Group Chief Operating Officer and Hap Seng Star Chief Executive, Mr Harald Behrend and Mercedes-Benz Malaysia, President and CEO, Dr Claus Weidner.

Part of a highly successful on-going partnership between principal and authorised dealer partner, Hap Seng Star Puchong South Autohaus is strategically located next to the Damansara-Puchong Highway (LDP – Puchong Barat Toll Plaza), providing easy access to customers residing in and around Puchong, USJ and Putrajaya.

Speaking at the official launch, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia President and CEO, Dr Claus Weidner, (above, right) said, “We are constantly looking to expand our dealer network, both in terms of coverage and to ensure that we are in the most advantageous locations to better serve our customers. It gives us great pleasure to congratulate Hap Seng Star on the launch of Mercedes-Benz Hap Seng Star Puchong South Autohaus and wish the team all the success in both sales and after sales. We will continue enhancing our customer touchpoints nationwide while investing in developing key areas including talent, technology, production and services, as we remain focused on providing our customers with the Best Products and the Best Customer Experience.”

With a built-up area of 21,577 sq ft, the Mercedes-Benz Hap Seng Star Puchong South Autohaus conforms to the Mercedes-Benz Presentation System II (MPS II) Autohaus concept, the global autohaus benchmark of customer experience, complete with the latest Mercedes-Benz Corporate Identity (CI).

“With the launch of this Hap Seng Star Puchong South Autohaus, we are proud to announce our 10th authorised Mercedes-Benz dealership in Malaysia. While this is a significant milestone in our history as a passionate dealer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, we continue to reaffirm our commitment to deliver the highest standards of customer service to those who are part of the Hap Seng Star customer family,” said Hap Seng Consolidated Berhad, Group Chief Operating Officer and Hap Seng Star Sdn Bhd, Chief Executive, Harald Behrend (above, 4th from left).

More on HSS Puchong South…

Hap Seng Star Puchong South Autohaus has a total display capacity of eight Mercedes-Benz vehicles; and although an interim facility, the Autohaus is a full-fledged 3S centre equipped with 12 work bays, capable of servicing up to approximately 500 vehicles a month, providing general and specialised repair solutions.

To provide greater customer care and convenience, the 27 member team at Hap Seng Star Puchong South Autohaus offers a complete one-stop solution in sales, financial and after sales services. This includes tailored service when intending to purchase a Mercedes-Benz, personalised one-on-one interaction with a Service Advisor on necessary vehicle maintenance and repair, and financial services from Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia, thus completing the customer’s journey in purchasing and owning a prized Mercedes-Benz vehicle.

All technicians at the Authohaus are Mercedes-Benz certified and able to provide exceptional repair works with state-of-the art specialised Mercedes-Benz equipment and tools. The new Autohaus also offers customers specialised maintenance and 24 hour roadside assistance.

Customers can also opt for Service Differentiation – an exclusive range of personalised services tailored to customers’ individual needs that offers flexibility and convenience which includes premium express service, door-to-door service or merely drop and go their Mercedes-Benz vehicle at the autohaus.

Placing greater emphasis on customer comfort and individuality, the Mercedes-Benz Hap Seng Star Puchong South Autohaus is equipped with a private Star Lounge and Mercedes-Benz lifestyle products are available for sale to all fans of the brand.

Currently, Hap Seng Star operates in Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kinrara, Jalan Ipoh, Balakong, Bukit Tinggi, Iskandar Johor and the latest in Puchong South. In East Malaysia, Hap Seng Star is present in Kuching, Miri and Kota Kinabalu.

The Hap Seng Star Puchong South Autohaus brings the total number of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia dedicated nationwide dealerships to 34 Autohauses, all delivering the Best Products and the Best Customer Experience throughout customers’ entire journey. This further fortifies the German marque’s position as the largest and leading premium automotive dealer network in the country.

The Mercedes-Benz Hap Seng Star Puchong South Autohaus is located at Lot 14225, KM3.8, Lebuhraya Damansara-Puchong, 47100, Puchong. For more info, call +603 – 8051 5616.

Petronas Launches New Sprinta Ultraflex @ PBW 2018 & I Killed Both My Bikes Getting There To Witness It! [+Videos & Full Photo Gallery]

Yup, you read that right. I killed two of my bikes getting to Phuket Bike Week 2018. But first a bit of history. Any biker worth his or her leathers knows about Phuket Bike Week or PBW for short. It’s like a rite of passage when it comes to biking; every biker needs to do this ride at least once, because just like how Sturgis is for Harley-Davidson owners, PBW is hallowed-ground for all bikers.

I remember some years ago, I’d already decided to ride with a group of friends to PBW, but a day before the intended departure, my (then) bike developed a hiccup, which could not be cured in time. Instead of missing the event, I actually drove to PBW alone, in a clapped-out Proton Wira sedan 1.5 auto. Well at least it made it there and back, can’t say the same this time sadly…

It doesn’t take much convincing for me to swing a leg over a bike and go for a ride, so needless to say I was thrilled when the invite from Petronas arrived. In an effort to promote its new Sprinta motorcycle engine oil to a more regional market, Petronas decided to launch its new Sprinta with Ultraflex at Phuket Bike Week 2018!

I’m going to now sum up now very quickly what happened to yours truly during this ride, because it’s too painful to talk too much about it. Having flagged-off at Petronas TPM in Sg.Besi, with the first overnight stop planned for Hatyai, my Kawasaki Voyager XII (below) busted its coolant hose near Tg.Malim. Pulling into TM R&R, I assessed the damage and this time, duct-tape, cable-ties and super-glue weren’t gonna fix it.

I gingerly turned back and rode at 80kmh directly to my usual bike shop, left the bike there, hopped into a Grabcar, headed home, repacked, jumped onto my Suzuki Katana 750 and headed for the border, a full 2hrs behind the convoy. Amazingly, I managed to catch-up with them at the Bukit Kayu Hitam border, and the rest of the participants who’d already heard that I’d turned back at Tg.Malim thought they were seeing a ghost. A few actually poked me to see if I was real or not…

The next day my old Suzuki was going really well for a bike more than 30 years old, right up till Krabi where stopped at the traffic light, I noticed smoke coming from the engine; not a good sign. The bike had sprung an oil leak from its cylinder-head. A busted top-gasket would see a rather unceremonious end to my ride as she was loaded into one of the accompanying back-up vans, and I’d become part of the crew henceforth.

But we made it to Phuket Bike Week at the end of the day, where I was simply blown-away by what Petronas had achieved insofar as branding at the show was concerned. The entire main-stage area (above) looked like Petronas Town, and even the area just after the main entrance was set with a Petronas pavilion, replete with a mega-sized bottle of new Sprinta Ultraflex.

Let’s put it this way, it was nearly impossible for anyone to take a photo without at least some Petronas branding in the background. That’s how good the branding and awareness at PBW was. The actual launch coverage can be seen here.

I’d rather not talk about the journey back from PBW 2018, it wasn’t as pleasant an experience as riding, since I had to sit in a van the entire way back, but at least the company was good, my beloved bike was with me the whole way, we got home safe and that’s what matters. So what prompts bikers to flock to PBW? I saw bikers from all walks of life there, some had even ridden kapchais from KL to PBW and back.

Well, there’s no explanation for it, none whatsoever. I can’t tell you why I’ll likely try again in 2019, despite the distance to and fro and the inherent hazards along the way. It’s something you have to experience for yourself to truly understand. The atmosphere, the camaraderie, and sights and sounds. There are many bike weeks throughout the year, but there’s only one Phuket Bike Week. Once you finally ride there, you’l understand. Roll-on PBW 2019, I’ll be ready. – Chris Wee.

VIDEOS…

PBW Walk-around:

Girls of PBW:

More Girls of PBW:

Petronas participants roll-out:

Songkran Festival @ PBW 2018:

Petronas @ PBW 2018 Photo Gallery…

SUNDAY SPECIAL: New Porsche 911 GT3 RS – 6:56.4min Through The ‘Green Hell’! [+Videos]

The Porsche 911 GT3 RS set another benchmark for road-approved sports cars at the Nürburgring-Nordschleife circuit in Germany: Porsche works race driver Kévin Estre set a lap time in 6:56.4 minutes with the 520hp GT3 RS. The Frenchman’s lap time was a whopping 24 seconds faster than the best time achieved with the previous GT3 RS model.

Porsche development driver Lars Kern was sharing driving duties with Estre. Following the 918 Spyder and the 911 GT2 RS, the new GT3 RS is the third production Porsche sports car with a notarised lap time of less than seven minutes on the world’s most demanding race track, known as the ‘Green Hell’. As is customary for record drives, the time was measured around the 20.6-kilometre lap. Here’s the in-car footage of this feat…

Frank Steffen Walliser, Vice President Motorsport and GT Cars, commented; “No other Porsche model gets as close to racing as the new GT3 RS. Many innovative ideas from top-level motorsport were transferred; for example, from the 911 GT3 R. This is what our philosophy for GT models is about: Highest technology must be fascinating but tangible. In this regard there is no harder test for our ideas than the Nordschleife.”

Here’s a look at the GT3 RS in action from the outside at the Nurburgring Nordschleife recently…

Andreas Preuninger, Director GT Model Line, added; “All four lap times of both drivers were below seven minutes and only tenths of a second apart. This proves not only the outstanding power of the GT3 RS, but also its extraordinary driveability at the limit. A perfectly composed overall system allows for highly dynamic performance even with a relatively modest engine power. For a driver, each of the car’s thousands of parts have to feel like one – that’s an unbeatable strength of the GT3 RS. And what especially delights me is how much fun Lars and Kévin (below) had when driving that car.”

29-year old Estre (below) began the record lap at 11:40 am in ideal conditions, with 14 degree Celsius ambient and 18 degree Celsius track temperature. “This lap was a sensational experience for me”, he revealed afterwards. “Through the fast corners and on the brakes in particular, the GT3 RS is unbelievably close to our racing car GT3 R. This is also thanks to the new generation of tyres for road going sports cars. I like the engine of the GT3 RS a lot. Up to 9,000 revs per minute from a six-cylinder engine just feels fantastic. The sound is a dream and the torque is massive.”

L-R: Lars Kern (Porsche test driver) and Kévin Estre (Porsche factory driver) after the hot lap at the Nurburgring Nordschleife.

Since 2016 Kévin Estre belongs to the squad of Porsche works drivers. He competes with the Porsche 911 RSR in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) that includes the Le Mans 24-Hours. In the ADAC GT Masters he races the 911 GT3 R.

The 911 GT3 RS with motorsport-bred chassis and 383kW (520hp), four-litre, naturally aspirated engine had its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in early March this year. The high-performance sports car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds, reaching a top speed of 312 km/h.

Maserati Introduces 2018 Range @ Beijing Autoshow

Maserati introduces its 2018 range with three significantly restyled models at the Auto China 2018 Show in Beijing and proudly showcases its GranLusso and GranSport trim strategy. The two distinctive trims represent the proposition of every Maserati which resonates with the philosophy of GranTurismo, the ultimate combination of sportiness and luxury.

A celebration of GranLusso and GranSport

Maserati has always pursued luxury and sportiness to the fullest and continues to put the customer at the centre accommodating individual needs with exclusive models, designed to meet each one’s unique personality and taste.

Maserati has unveiled a brand-new Personalization Area at Auto China 2018 to showcase its rich array of configurations for exterior and interior design. This area also displays a fleet of MY18 Maserati models in the highly customized GranLusso and GranSport trims.

The Levante GranSport (below) showcased at the lounge fully embodies the racing heritage of every Maserati. It is immediately recognizable for its front grille, skid plates and roof rails in Piano Black, for the red brake callipers and the 20” Nereo wheels. 12-way power sport leather seats, power-adjustable Sport steering wheel, elongated gearshift paddles, carbon trims and Soft Close Doors are blended to create an exciting, sport-oriented interior.

The Quattroporte GranLusso redefines the concept of luxury. The elegantly restyled exterior has adopted a more imposing, Alfieri-shaped front grille, 20” Mercurio rims and black-painted brake callipers. Exclusive Ermenegildo Zegna Silk interiors with open-pore Radica wood trim and wood-finished leather steering wheel are combined with additional comfort equipment such as power foot pedals, power rear and rear side sunblinds, four-zone automatic climate control and heated rear passenger seats.

The Ghibli (above) is another Maserati highlight in Beijing. The premium sports sedan that perfectly combines class topping performance and elegance. On show there is a 350hp Ghibli GranLusso and a 430hp Ghibli S Q4 GranSport, both equipped with the mighty 3.0 litre Twin Turbo V6 petrol engine.

“Luxury brands have always been pioneers in automobile personalization and Maserati continues to focus on personalization for enhancing our customer experience”, said Alberto Cavaggioni, Managing Director of Maserati China.

“China has a growing number of ‘connoisseurs’ seeking to express their personalities and tastes through exclusive cars. Faced with increasing demands for more personalized options, Maserati stands out for its unique luxury and sports heritage, thanks to which it is capable to offer premium and exclusive options that genuinely satisfy the most discerning customers.”

Sime Darby Auto Connexion Opens New Ford Centre In Kuching

Ford fans in E.M’sia take note! Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC), Ford Motor Company’s exclusive distribution partner in Malaysia, celebrated the opening of a new Ford dealer facility, Sime Darby Auto Connexion (Kuching) recently.

The Kuching showroom is designed in accordance with Ford’s global Brand@Retail standard, housing sales, service and spare parts (3S) under one roof to meet the full range of customers’ needs. Located on Rock Road in Kuching, the 2,033 square-metre facility features a six-vehicle showroom and 13-vehicle service bays with vehicle hoists. The facility also includes a dedicated customer service lounge with complimentary Wi-Fi, where customers can enjoy hot beverages and snacks while waiting for their service appointments.

“Sime Darby Auto Connexion (Kuching) is the latest proof point in our network expansion and customer service enhancement plan, helping support Ford’s fast-growing customer base in East Malaysia,” said Syed Ahmad Muzri Bin Syed Faiz, Managing Director, Sime Darby Auto Connexion.

“Every aspect of this facility has been designed to provide an unmatched customer service and ownership experience, with convenience, efficiency and comfort.” Muzri added.

The new facility is staffed by certified technicians and equipped with the most up-to-date diagnostic equipment and special tools to provide Ford Authorised Service, and maintain a full supply of genuine spare parts.

All Ford Sime Darby Auto Connexion (Kuching) employees, including technicians, sales and service staff have received globally recognised hands-on training to develop their expertise and serve customers’ needs.

“The new facility reaffirms our belief that the quality of the ownership experience we provide is just as important as the quality of our world-class Ford vehicles,” said Truong Kim Phong, Managing Director, Asia Pacific Emerging Markets, Ford Motor Company. “Together with our trusted partner Sime Darby Auto Connexion, it is our top priority to ensure that customers get the best service at every step of their ownership experience.”

The Kuching showroom is strategically located at Lot 19, Block 10, 1 ½ Mile, Rock Road, 93200 Kuching, Sarawak. The showroom is open from 8:30am-5.30pm Monday to Friday, and from 8:30am-12:30pm on Saturday, while the service centre’s opening hours are 8:00am-5:00pm from Monday to Friday and 8:00am-12:00pm on Saturday.

For more information, call the Kuching Showroom hotlines – showroom 082-523-855, service centre 082-523-655, or visit www.sdacford.com.my.

Naza Kia Appoints MBf Automobile As Newest Dealer @ MAI Autoshow 2018

Naza Kia Malaysia (NKM), the official distributor of KIA vehicles in Malaysia, today held a signing ceremony at the MAI Autoshow 2018 to mark the appointment of MBf Automobile Sdn Bhd into their ever-growing dealer network.

Present at the event to represent Naza Kia Malaysia was Dato’ Samson Anand George, Group CEO, Automotive Group, Naza Corporation Holdings who signed the agreement in tandem with Daniel Choo, Group General Manager of MBf Automobile Sdn Bhd.

This new dealership appointment symbolises Naza Kia Malaysia’s relentless pursuit of brand excellence and brand reach in the country. Dato’ Samson Anand George, Group CEO, Automotive Group, Naza Corporation Holdings, said, “We are grateful for the immense support from our dealers over the last few decades and we welcome MBf Automobile Sdn Bhd to our existing network of dealers. This dealership reassures us of Kia’s growing presence in Malaysia and the confidence that dealers such as MBf Automobile Sdn Bhd place on us.”

In addition, Naza Kia Malaysia continues to creatively improve consumer engagement using key elements of future design and technology. MBf Automobile Sdn Bhd will set up its first Kia outlets incorporating the Korean brand’s new corporate identity for its Kia Concept Stores. The first 3S Kia City Concept Store Experiential Showroom in Malaysia is set to be established at Menara MBf with an investment of RM5 million, along the bustling Jalan Sultan Ismail by mid-2019, giving visitors a one-of-a-kind immersive experience at a state-of-the-art facility.

MBf Automobile Sdn Bhd will also undertake an existing Kia outlet located at Jalan Maarof, Bangsar and invest RM1.5 million to revamp the premises into a Kia City Concept Store that will begin operations in the third quarter of 2018. As a new dealer onboard, MBf Automobile Sdn Bhd expects to invest RM6.5 million in total for the two Kia outlets.

“This year, we plan to continue intensifying investments to further grow our network with five new outlets nationwide and expand customer touchpoints to ensure an extraordinary experience throughout the consumer journey,” added Dato’ Samson. Naza Kia Malaysia currently boasts 51 sales and service centres in the country and have plans to open up new outlets nationwide in 2018.

About MBf Automobile…

MBf Automobile Sdn Bhd, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of MBf Group, a multinational corporation whose portfolio has grown substantially to a range of sectors and regions to embody one of the Asia Pacific’s leading private conglomerates. With this appointment as a Kia dealer, the MBf Group is making as serious comeback in the automotive business in Malaysia. The company’s principal business activities span across nine different sectors, namely automotive, agribusiness, banking & financial services, commercial printing & engineering, education, healthcare, logistics, property development & management and retail.

Go Visit The 2018 MAI Malaysia Autoshow @ MAEPS! [+Full Photo Gallery]

Happening from 26th to 29th April 2018, the MAI Malaysia Autoshow is currently going on now at MAEPS in Serdang!

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) took the opportunity to unveil the new Golf R-Line at the show on opening day, completing the new Golf family line-up in Malaysia. The event also marked the Golf R-Line’s first public appearance in the country.

Golf R-Line is priced at RM166,990. Unmistakable in looks, the car is decked in the ‘R-Line’ styling package which includes the ‘R-Line’ front and rear bumper, rear spoiler, ‘R-Line’ badges on radiator grille and side panels, and 17” Singapore alloy wheels.

Perodua introduced their latest best-deal in town in the form of the Bezza GXtra, priced at only RM35,500! It was unveiled and officiated by our Prime Minister himself at the show. Powered by a 1.0L engine, the GXtra replaces the older Bezza Standard G. Available with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed auto, the GXtra boasts an incredible 22.8km per litre, making it one of the most frugal (non hybrid) cars available in the market.

In a separate hall (Hall C), Go Auto used the MAI Autoshow to preview its new Haval H9 to the public. This colossal 7-seater SUV with more than a passing resemblance to a Toyota Land Cruiser ‘Ninja Turtle’, is powered by a turbocharged dual-VVT 2.0L engine that produces 160bhp and a whopping 324Nm of torque. Its launch date is yet to be announced but the price is expected to be well below RM200,000. I’m guessing about RM160k, maybe.

Over in the 2-wheel segment, Boon Siew Honda officially launched the new X-ADV 750 Adventure (below), the iconic Africa Twin and the gorgeous retro-sports CB1000R (above).

While the CB1000R’s price has not been determined, attendees (especially me) were shocked to hear that the X-ADV 750 costs just RM57,999 and the Africa Twin (below) starts at RM69,999 for the standard and RM75,999 for the DCT (dual-clutch transmission).

These figures are in the region of almost twenty-thousand less than predicted, or what some poor-souls have paid for the bikes in the grey market. Nice one Boon Siew!

And speaking of Honda, in addition to all their cars currently available, HMSB (who had the biggest pavilion by far) displayed the new Civic Type-R, which was garnering the lion’s share of shutterbug and selfie action at MAEPS. Can you see it in the photo above? It’s right there where the crowd is. Really.

Proton’s star of the show in Hall A was a mock-up of the Iriz rally car, and it was very difficult getting this photo above because everyone was bustling around it taking a multitude of shots. Don’t be surprised if you see identical ones on the road next month….

Also in Hall A, the highlight of the Toyota pavilion is of course the new Toyota C-HR compact-crossover SUV, launched earlier this year. The C-HR has been drawing lots of attention along with its siblings the latest L-Edition Toyota Hilux, Vios, Sienta, Innova X and Avanza X.

Of course a car show would not be complete without at least a few classic and old-skool cars in attendance, and thus Kelab Volvo Klasik or Classic Volvo Owners Club put in a good showing also at Hall C, where I was amazed to find not one, but TWO classic 262C Bertone Volvo coupes!