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From AutoExpress, Mercedes-Benz has indeed finally revealed the A-Class Saloon, which is basically a booted version of the 4th generation of the brand’s compact car. “We’ve already seen a four-door variant of the latest model – the Chinese market A-Class L Sedan – but this one will be coming to the UK.”AutoExpress. Does this mean it’s destined for our shores too? Check out the video!

Here’s more about the new A-Class Sedan courtesy of AutoExpress:

From the outside, the saloon looks near identical to the A-class hatchback right up until the C-Pillar. From there, the roof drops away slightly more sharply to accommodate the new boot section. The rear end treatment is the same as the Chinese L Sedan, featuring bold light clusters with a Y-shaped LED signature above a bumper flanked by a pair of vertical air vents.

The saloon shares its 2,729mm wheelbase with the hatchback, while the overall length has stretched 130mm beyond the standard five-door variant. At 420 litres, the boot is 50 litres larger than in the hatch, though its opening is inevitably smaller.

The new shape makes the saloon even more aerodynamic than the already slippery A-Class hatch. At 0.22 cd, Mercedes claims that it boasts the greatest aero efficiency of any current production car, which should bring with it both low levels of wind noise and strong fuel efficiency.

There’s two engines to choose from at launch; the petrol A200 and diesel A180d. The A 200 is powered by a 1.3-litre turbo that makes 161bhp, 250Nm of torque, and is claimed to manage 54.3mpg. The diesel unit is co-developed with Renault, and achieves 71mpg while producing 114bhp and 260Nm.

It’s a fairly small segment the A-Class Saloon will compete in when it makes its Spring 2019 debut – the Audi A3 Saloon will be its closest competitor – but Mercedes says that it’ll boast class-leading rear headroom. The rest of the A-Class cabin is the same as the regular hatchback; in other words it’s furnished with a well-built, contemporary dash which, with a few select options ticked, gets one of the very best infotainment systems available at any price.

The A-Class Saloon will make its first public appearance at the Paris Motor Show on 4 October. Prices are yet to be confirmed, but expect a slightly premium over the hatch’s £25,800 start point (circa RM137,326 nett before taxes and import duties). Here’s one last video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1VqML6ERrGQ

 

Mercedes-Benz A-Class Sedan Photo Gallery (all photos from AutoExpress UK)

Isuzu Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. has introduced their limited edition, Isuzu D-Max X-Series which should be very appealing to those who are looking for an urban sports concept pick-up truck. The vehicle was unveiled by the Chief Operating Officer of Isuzu Malaysia for Light Commercial Vehicle, Masayuki Suzuki at the Carlist Drive Autofair 2018 event at Setia City Convention Centre, Shah Alam.

The key exterior upgrades include an athletic front skirting with a dual tone of red highlight that gives a much bolder appearance. The sporty rear skirting is designed together with the aero sport bars to further enhance its metropolitan energetic look.

Other exterior accessories package for this limited edition version includes the exclusive red Isuzu logo badge at the car rear tailgate with X-Series emblem. At the front, the changes include a grey coloured front grille with red Isuzu logo which enhances its sporty charm.

The signature identity for this limited edition, Isuzu D-Max X-Series, is its body decal which cannot be found on their standard variant. A sporty stripe design has been added to its bonnet surface as well as at the tailgate.

Owners of this Isuzu D-Max X-Series will get to enjoy the welcome light which comes as a standard feature for this limited edition variant. The welcome light will come on upon unlocking the car. A white spotlight will be activated and projected onto the ground for 30 seconds.

The Isuzu D-Max X-Series also offers extended standard accessories including features like 360° Around View Monitor (AVM) system (above), built in in-car electronic tag and honeycomb shape stitched leather car seat. The AVM is a new feature that makes use of four exterior cameras in order to have a bird’s eye view for increased safety. This bird’s eye view cameras helps the driver see objects surrounding the vehicle, especially the presence of short objects that might not be visible from the driver’s seat otherwise.

As for the built-in tag (above), this feature is useful for drivers in paying and passing the toll. The Touch N Go card needs to be slotted into the reader which is located inside the arm rest. It works just like an in-car electronic tag whereby the screen will show the card balance and it will release a beeping sound once the card balance is below RM10.

The other prominent changes for this limited edition are the red colour LED interior accent light and LED illuminator rocker plate. These functions heighten the premium feel for both the driver and the passengers. The red light will toggle automatically as the door is unlocked and opened. It also helps in improving visibility inside the cabin in dark conditions.

At the launch, Isuzu Malaysia Chief Operating Officer for Light Commercial Vehicle, Masayuki Suzuki said that he is pleased to introduce the signature X-Series marque into the Malaysian market at such an opportune time. “Since the tax holiday with zero-rated GST started, demand for Isuzu D-Max especially has increased tremendously due to the fact that the pick-up is priced 6% lower, a significant reduction. The consumers should take advantage of the situation to book one today, seeing the X-Series is only produced in a limited number,” he added.

The new limited edition vehicles are expected to appear at Isuzu’s Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia showrooms on first week of August onwards. However the public will be able to test drive one at the launch event at Setia Alam Convention Centre until 29 July 2018.

The price of this limited edition Isuzu D-Max X-Series is RM118,000.00 for 2.5L and RM124,000.00 for 3.0L off the road without insurance (Peninsular Malaysia). It is available in two colours; Silky Pearl White and Stallion Black Metallic. Every purchase of the X-Series comes with a premiums pack consisting of exclusive X-Series sling bag, tumbler, key chain and Touch N Go card.

For more details on Isuzu’s range of vehicles, call 1-300-88-1133 or visit www.isuzu.net.my/pickup/.

TC Subaru Sdn Bhd, the exclusive distributor of Subaru vehicles in Malaysia, introduced the all-new Subaru Outback today. The all-new Subaru Outback offers customers an experience of responsive handling and luxurious comfort with rugged exterior and refined plush interiors. It now comes equipped with Subaru’s award-winning EyeSight Driver Assist Technology*, delivering a more confident driving experience. The Outback is on display at the Carlist.my DRIVE: Auto Fair 2018, which is happening from 27th – 29th July. But what is Subaru Eye-Sight? Best let them explain it in this short video…

The New Subaru Outback:

Subaru Outback 2.5i-S EyeSight

The new Outback features:

  • EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, a driving support system that uses a range of functions to assist the driver to provide a safer driving experience
  • STABLEX-Ride System for even better steering stability and ride quality with less body shake
  • X-MODE, for optimised control of the engine, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (S-AWD) and brakes to safely drive over almost any type of terrain

The new Outback has a facelifted front bumper and hexagonal grille which will give it a high quality and rugged look. The turbine-shaped rims are dynamically designed and light-weight which will result in better aerodynamics.

New functionalities have been included such as USB ports in the back-centre console and additional microphones to improve voice recognition. The Outback will also have a new premium infotainment system with an eight-inch high-resolution screen, smartphone connectivity and access to today’s most popular apps with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Voice recognition capabilities will allow hands-free use, keeping everybody safe whilst reducing distractions when driving.

The Outback features an improved 2.5-Litre Boxer Engine with a new alternator which is made to improve fuel efficiency. In addition, an eight percent weight reduction was achieved due to the change of shape of the alternator.

The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) now has a 7-speed manual mode and the throttle response has been improved to create a sporty acceleration feel. Changing the CVT chain to a short pitch chain has reduced noises from inside the cabin and improved fuel efficiency by approximately three percent compared to the current model.

Safety continues to be a cornerstone in all Subaru models. In addition to EyeSight, the Outback have been fitted with Steering Responsive Headlights which allows the headlight beam to move according to the direction of how the car is steered, maximising dusk visibility and safety. Front blind spot visibility has also been enhanced as a result of cameras fitted on the lower part of the front grille and side mirror which will allow the drivers to check the surrounding areas when navigating though tight spaces.

In addition to the existing line-up of exterior colours, the Outback will feature brand new exterior colours to choose from:

  • Wilderness Green Metallic
  • Crimson Red Pearl
  • Oak Brown Pearl

OTR price starts from RM246,188.40** without insurance. For more information, please visit www.subaru.asia/my

*EyeSight is a driving support system which may not operate optimally under all driving conditions.

**The price shown above is based on simulated 10% Sales and Service Tax

Images from Subaru.com, (<- link) learn more about Eye-Sight at that link.

The PROTON 1-Tank Adventure for the Central Region ended successfully on 18 July 2018 with a total of 36 participants in 18 cars covering a total distance of 640km on just one tank of fuel. Participants including media, celebrities, key opinion leaders, and public drove either a PROTON Saga 1.3 CVT, Persona 1.6 CVT or Iriz 1.3 CVT from PROTON Centre of Excellence in Shah Alam to Ipoh and back to Setia Gemilang Auto, Shah Alam on just one tank of fuel without any specific driving restrictions.

The Journey across 640km

The journey began on a highway where participants drove at a speed between 80km/h to 100km/h before driving 60km/h to 80km/h on alternative roads with traffic, road works, lorries and road conditions that were similar to daily driving conditions.

Participants went on a free and easy drive via Kuala Selangor, Teluk Intan, Bukit Gantang R&R, Weil Hotel, Kellie’s Castle before arriving at Malaysia Agro Exposition Park Serdang (MAEPS) for their Dynamic Driving Experience. They even enjoyed famous local cuisine such as Mee Udang Galah, Mee Rebus Mastan Ghani, Nasi Vanggey and durians along the way.

In order to capture real time fuel consumption, participants are encouraged to drive freely with the air-conditioning, without removing any safety items (i.e. the spare tyre).

Central Region End with Successful Results

As a result, all cars achieved 640km in just 1 tank and the results were verified by scrutineers from the Malaysia Speed Festival (MSF). The best achievements were from the Public category led by Saga 1.3 CVT at 3.57L/100km (average fuel consumption for Saga Group is 4.5L/100km), followed by Persona 1.6 CVT at 4.00L/100km (average fuel consumption for Persona Group is 5.09L/100km), and Iriz 1.3 CVT at 4.75L/100km (average fuel consumption for Iriz Group is 5.55L/100km).

The last activity before the finishing line was the Dynamic Driving Experience where participants got first-hand experience of the exhilarating ride and handling of PROTON vehicles as well as 5-Star ASEAN NCAP active safety features in the Persona and Iriz, such as the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control (TC) and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

The 3 cars featured in the event were:

Saga: Safe, Stable, Spacious

Proton Saga is spacious and it comes with Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Traction Control (TC) system, giving it an outstanding driving experience (compared to its competitors in the same category, the driving performance ensures great driving experience, stability at high speed cornering; leading to better safety) and value for money with low maintenance cost which is an important consideration for the consumers.

PersonaPower, Practicality, Proven Safety

Persona has internationally recognized ASEAN NCAP 5 star ratings with its outstanding safety which includes Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control (TC), 6 airbags and body structure made with HPF technology. It offers spacious interior with a 510L boot space, and practicality with keyless entry and reverse camera. Competitively priced in its category, the Persona is equipped with 1.6VVT engine that ensuress powerful performance for great driving experience.

Iriz: Reinforced Safety, Responsive Driving, Refined Design

Iriz presents a tough and sturdy characteristic with its body structure made with HPF as well as other advanced technology equipment including Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Hill-hold Assist that is standard across all variants. In terms of performance, Iriz is equipped with 1.3L and 1.6L VVT engine, which has proven outstanding drivability through the Sepang 1000km race. Additionally, Iriz offers design that cater to youths with its distinctive two-tone colour body kit and black roof design that catches people’s attention. For interior, the steering, upholstery and carpet mat with fine tailoring technology and striking colour combination accentuate its sportiness. Now, it is equipped with a new meter display and multi-touch infotainment display system as well as glossy finish for its gear and dashboard that uplift the fine design in the interior.

Registration has closed for the next round at the Southern region, but recruitment for the Northern region round is still open. For details, terms and conditions, please visit PROTON official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ProtonCarsOfficial

Sergio Marchionne, the CEO of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) who was very recently replaced by Mike Manley due to failing health, has died. He was 66.

WXYZ-TV Detroit shares this video report.

Another report from CNBC Television honours the man that brought FCA back from the brink…

Rest in Peace Sergio, thank you for all you’ve done.

From EVO’s to Outlanders, Polis Diraja Malaysia (PDRM) recently acquired 15 units of Mitsubishi Outlander 2.4 contributed by PLUS Highway for the traffic laws enforcement on the highway. The handover ceremony of the new “Peronda Lebuhraya” cars was held at Persada PLUS, Subang Jaya. Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM), the official distributor of Mitsubishi vehicles in Malaysia was there to witness the handover ceremony.

These vehicles were contributed to PDRM to be used as Expressway Mobile Patrol Vehicle (EMPV).  The SUVs will be known as ‘Police Highway Eagle’ which will enhance the effectiveness in enforcing traffic laws during festive seasons, said Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Mohamad Fuzi Harun. Each of the 15 Outlanders has been upgraded with Mitsubishi EVO X engines featuring a special twin-turbo AWD system with anti-lag, which pushes output to 470bhp. That last line is a complete lie, I just wanted to see if you’re paying attention. They’re all stock-standard.

Being there to witness the handover ceremony, Chief Executive Officer of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia, Tomoyuki Shinnishi (above, left) said “Safety is the Mitsubishi Outlander’s strongest suit, befitting its role as a family vehicle. But now, we are delighted to know that besides being one of the best safety specced vehicles on the road, the Outlander is meeting every requirement of PDRM to assist them with the enforcement of traffic laws on the highway.”

He elaborated, “With many years of winning experience in the grueling Dakar Rally under its belt, Mitsubishi is also a specialist in rugged 4WD vehicles. So with the Outlander’s safety function, power and stability, we are confident that the Outlander will do its part in assisting our policeman to eradicate traffic offences and eventually lower the risk of road accidents.”

In a separate ceremony, PDRM also acquired eight Mitsubishi cars consisting of Mitsubishi Outlander 2.4-litre (above) and Mitsubishi ASX Compact SUV contributed by ANIH Berhad. The contribution made by these two highway concessions were valued at an estimation of RM3 million.

The Mitsubishi Outlander recently received the Family SUVs of Malaysia award at the Cars of Malaysia awards 2018.

The Zhejiang Geely Holding Group has announced that the company has moved up a whopping 76 places in the Global Fortune 500 ranking, after posting revenues in excess of US$41.1 billion in 2017.

This is the 7th year in the row that Geely has been listed in the prestigious Global Fortune 500, and for full details you can download this: ZGH 7 Years in Fortune 500 Press Release

In other news, the inaugural PROTON After Sales Service Competition 2018 will be held from 20 July to 19 August 2018. Hundreds of after sales personnel from PROTON dealers and branches will be put to the test to prove their skills, speed and accuracy in their areas of expertise. This is part of PROTON’s talent management initiative.

Designed as a platform for all after sales personnel around the country to showcase their ability and quality of work in handling customers’ cars, the competition offers an incentive trip and cash prizes worth RM50,000 to the winners. “The PROTON After Sales Service Competition is part of PROTON’s continuous effort to enhance the skills of our technicians to serve our customers better and also to reward those who show exceptional ability.

“Winners will be rewarded with an incentive trip to Shanghai, China, where they have the opportunity to visit Geely Headquarters and Geely Research Centre. This will be an eye opener for our local technicians to explore the full breadth of capabilities at Geely from design to development of the complete vehicle,” said Abdul Rashid Musa, Chief Executive Officer of PROTON Edar.

“Exceptional after sales service is the key to retain our existing customers as well as attracting new ones. When we provide good quality services to them, we are able to increase customer loyalty and benefit from them spreading the news via word-of-mouth. Technicians or mechanics play an important role in ensuring this to happen. Throughout the Competition, our technicians will compete against each other, helping them improve their skill level. Ultimately, this assists to build the quality of our after sales services and take it to a higher level to be on par with global standards,” he added.

The pre-qualifying round for PROTON After Sales Service Competition 2018 will be held in 5 regions starting from 20 July. Top three participants at the regional level will compete in the Final at COE, Subang Jaya on 13 – 15 September.

During the regional level competition, participants will be given an Engine Overhaul task where they are required to dismantle and assemble a Proton VVT engine within three hours. They will be judged based on their speed, accuracy and troubleshooting competencies throughout the process. “With improvement in sales and quality month by month, we are confident that PROTON is on the right track to grow. We recognise that good quality products allow us to sell more cars, but great service goes a long way to retain and grow our customer base so this is what PROTON is striving to achieve,” Rashid added further.

Volvo Trucks has appointed Mitch Peden (above) as its new Managing Director for Malaysia, with an aim to further strengthen Volvo Trucks’ position in the commercial vehicle market, and to bring the company to greater heights than ever before. Hailing from Australia, Mitch started his career at the Commonwealth Bank of Australia. Mitch took his first step into the automotive sector in 1994 when he joined General Motors.

Since then, Mitch has worked in a number of automotive companies before joining Volvo Trucks in 2005. Mitch has been a member of the Volvo Trucks management team, helming a few positions in sales and marketing area throughout his career, prior to being appointed as Volvo Trucks Malaysia’s new MD.

Mitch will be taking over from his predecessor, Mats Nilsson, who after working in Volvo Trucks Malaysia for 5 years, will be moving to the Renault Organisation in France within the Volvo Group.  As the new managing director, Mitch will be responsible for growing the trucks sales and aftermarket business in Malaysia and Brunei.

“It is an exciting time for Volvo Trucks today with so many new developments in Malaysia. Volvo Trucks will continue introducing new technology and innovation as we head into the future and to provide better quality services and products to our customers here. I am excited to continue on the footsteps of my predecessor and fellow colleague, Mats Nilsson, who has done a brilliant job in raising Volvo Trucks Malaysia to where it is today. I am very confident that, with the strong commitment of the team here in Malaysia, we will be able to continuously offer the best to our customers.” said Mitch.

With over two decades of industry experience, 13 years of which were with Volvo Trucks, Mitch is truly an industry veteran who is tasked to take Volvo Trucks Malaysia to greater heights. Mitch graduated from the University of Western Australia with a Bachelor of Commerce degree and also holds a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) from Bond University.

Volvo Trucks Malaysia Photo Gallery (Truck images from Volvo Trucks M’sia Webpage)

 

The Naza Group announced it will contribute RM1,000 towards Tabung Harapan Malaysia for every car sold by the Group, from 1st June to 31st August 2018. The Naza Group is an importer and distributor for a diverse range of international automotive brands such as Ferrari, Maserati, Mercedes-Benz, Peugeot, Citroën, DS and Kia in Malaysia.

SM Nasarudin SM Nasimuddin, Group Executive Chairman and CEO, Naza Corporation Holdings Sdn Bhd said, “The Naza Group is proud to play its part by contributing to Tabung Harapan Malaysia as a responsible and patriotic corporate citizen. Our contribution is also our way of thanking the Government of Malaysia for the stable economic and political landscape and most of all for the 3-month tax holiday which has spurred sales of cars to achieve record levels this year.”

 

“As a homegrown company, it is our obligation and responsibility to assist wherever possible for the betterment of our beloved nation, especially as we soon celebrate our 61st anniversary of Merdeka and 55th Malaysia Day,” added SM Nasarudin.

Regas Premium Sabah and BMW Malaysia today opened doors to its newest BMW and BMW Motorrad showroom in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. Speaking at the opening ceremony, Mr. Harald Hoelzl, (below, second from left) Managing Director and CEO of BMW Group Malaysia said, “Partnerships and collaborations with our dealer representatives such as Regas Premium Sabah form crucial touch points to deliver our promise of Sheer Driving Pleasure to our customers in the country. While Regas Premium Sabah is now a new dealership in Kota Kinabalu, its owners Tan Brothers Machinery Company (TBMC) and Regas Group of Companies are no strangers to the premium automotive industry in East Malaysia.”

Hoelzl added that annually, East Malaysia contributes over 500 vehicles to BMW’s performance in Malaysia and the state of Sabah accounts to over 200 vehicles, proving that the state is a key touch point in the country. Mr. Matthew Tan, Managing Director and Dealer Principal of Regas Premium Sabah, meanwhile said, “The BMW Group is the leader in Mobility of the Future, delivering the best premium products and the best premium services for individual mobility. The brands representing the premium automaker are also the fastest growing brands in the premium segment in Malaysia with innovations that are leading the automotive industry in the country, which is why it has been an ambition for us at TBMC Group of Companies to represent the brand here in Sabah.”

Last year, the deliveries across the BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad range experienced an 18% growth in Sabah compared to performance in 2016. Regas Premium Sabah Sdn Bhd is a joint venture between TM Vision Auto Services Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of TBMC Group of Companies and Regas Premium Auto Sdn Bhd. Regas Premium Auto is the authorised dealer representative for the brands BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad in the state of Sarawak. Regas Premium Auto was also appointed as the authorised service dealership for BMW i in 2016 in the state, and last year established the first-ever BMW i public charging facilities in East Malaysia at CityOne Megamall Kuching.

Regas Premium Sabah will be taking over FM Autohaus as BMW Group Malaysia’s new dealership in Kota Kinabalu and will operate in the existing 53,500 sq ft facility located in the prime area along Jalan Penampang. It offers the full suite of Sales, Services, Spare Parts and Systems (4S) for the brands BMW and BMW Motorrad, as well as service facilities for the brands BMW i and MINI.

BMW Group Malaysia currently has a network of 20 BMW, 8 MINI, and 9 BMW Motorrad dealerships nationwide. Regas Premium Sabah is located at Lot 17362, Mile 3, Lido, Jalan Penampang, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.

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