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The Ford Mustang Mach 1 is back!

The last time a Ford Mustang Mach 1 was displayed for sale in showrooms in America was 17 years ago. It’s never been forgotten by Mustang fans and there must also have been people within the company who wanted to see it revived with the latest generation.

Now it is back and like the original Mach 1 in 1969, the all-new descendant bridges the gap between Mustang GT and Shelby models. “Bold styling, great acceleration and speed – Mach 1 says it all,” said Jim Farley, Ford’s Chief Operating Officer. “This is one of those special Mustangs that truly brings a smile to the faces of our owners, enthusiasts and fans – including me – so there’s never been a better time to bring back Mach 1 and have it go global too.”

Most track-capable 5-litre Mustang
The all-new Mustang Mach 1 is set to become the most track-capable 5-litre Mustang ever, thanks to a newly designed front end, plus Ford Performance parts from the Mustang Shelby GT350 and Shelby GT500 models as well as an optional Handling Package for greater at-limit handling.

The specially tuned V8 engine has a projected 480 bhp at 7,000 rpm and 570 Nm of torque at 4,600 rpm. Integrated into the engine are revised Shelby GT350 components including the intake manifold, oil filter adapter and engine oil cooler, increasing engine oil cooling capability by 50%.

The Mach 1 also comes standard with a Tremec 3160 6-speed manual transmission from the Shelby GT350. And for the first time, Ford has added rev-matching while the transmission is paired with the GT350 oil cooler system and the Mustang GT’s twin-disc clutch and short-throw shifter.

Drivers can also opt for the 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission with an upgraded torque converter and unique calibration that enables optimizing torque capability, shift character and overall enhanced performance. A second air-to-oil cooler increases cooling capacity by 75%.

Recapturing Mach 1 style
The new Mach 1’s grille harkens back to the original with a deep 3D mesh, shark-nosed section and faux lamp elements. Flanking the fascia are new side grilles below each turn signal lamp. A low-gloss Magnetic pony badge is centered on the grille, with low-gloss magnetic and black accents providing a premium look. Yet everything is true to Mach 1’s bold heritage, including low-gloss Magnetic mirror caps and the rear spoiler.

Focus on downforce
A front splitter optimized to the fascia shape improves track performance and provides a more aggressive appearance, while a matched rear spoiler works in concert to create ideal lift balance. Mach 1 features 22% more downforce than a Mustang GT with Performance Pack Level 1 and the downforce improvement jumps to approximately 150% with the Handling Package.

A new underbelly pan, the car’s most aerodynamically important upgrade, extends further rearward than on a Mustang GT Performance Pack to smooth and increase the airflow under the front of the car. Large underwing features in the belly pan increase downforce, while special belly pan airfoils in the brake cooling ramps improve downforce and assist the brake cooling flow – a first for Mustang.

The interior features a unique Dark Spindrift instrument panel with aluminium accents. Ebony seats with an accent stripe hint at Mach 1 heritage in cars equipped with a leather interior. Other interior upgrades include new door sill plates, an updated splash screen on the 12.3-inch all-LCD instrument cluster, a white cue ball shift knob, and engraved badging that displays the vehicle’s unique chassis number.

This generation of the Mustang is the first one which has righthand drive variants engineered and built at the factory for wider global sales. However, for now, Ford will only concentrate on supplying to the North American market.

Sime Darby Auto ConneXion also offers the latest Mustang with 2.3-litre EcoBoost and 5-litre engines. Visit www.sdacford.com.my to know more.

Ford Mustang is bestselling sportscar in the world – for the fifth consecutive year

New Mazda BT-50 – first pictures and details!

Mazda and Ford had a relationship that went back to the mid-1970s and by many accounts, it was a successful one. One of the successful joint efforts to come out of the partnership was the pick-up truck program which saw the development of the Mazda BT-50 and Ford Ranger, along with a 50:50 investment in a brand new factory in Thailand to build the vehicles.

However, by 2015, the automotive world had changed substantially, and Ford was also going through challenging times. It decided to end the long partnership with Mazda that year by selling off its remaining shares in the company. Further collaboration was also not considered, and an announcement was made that the next Ranger generation would not involve Mazda (and we now know that it will involve Volkswagen).

A new association with Isuzu
At the time of the announcement in 2017, a Mazda executive would only suggest that the reason for not developing the next Ranger and BT-50 together with Mazda was due to ‘business considerations’. The Ford package was not as commercially attractive to Mazda as what was offered by Isuzu Motors for its next generation of pick-up trucks.

Actually, Isuzu and Mazda had already been working together for some years on commercial vehicles in the Japanese market. The new agreement would see Isuzu providing its D-MAX pick-up for adaption to become the new generation of the Mazda BT-50. It’s not known how much involvement Mazda had in the current D-MAX which was launched in October last year.

2020 Mazda BT-50 — *Like other Mazda models, KODO design language is used and differentiates the BT-50 from the Isuzu D-MAX (inset).*

The result of the project has now been revealed with preliminary information and pictures of the new BT-50 being released. Mazda’s designers have done a good job of differentiating the Mazda model from the D-MAX. It’s not one of those vehicles which will draw remarks like ‘just a badge-engineered job’.

Immediate brand recognition
As with all current Mazda models, the KODO design language is used, giving immediate brand recognition. Mazda’s designers have adapted the KODO design theme to present an image of ‘power, toughness and utilitarian functionality’ suited to a pick-up truck.

ISUZU D-MAX PLATFORM — *The platform for the new BT-50 is identical to the one developed for the latest D-MAX.*

Just as there were tiny engineering differences between the Mazda Tribute and Ford Escape SUVs, there seems to be the same subtle differences between the new BT-50 and D-MAX. Mazda says it developed the BT-50 ‘with the intention of making travel and the time spent inside the vehicle exceptionally pleasant’. Its focus is therefore on personal transport for leisure more than a workhorse role although the D-MAX genes should still give it plenty of capability for those who use it for business.

The 1.9-litre Blue Power engine too?
The information available is still limited and a 3-litre turbodiesel engine is mentioned. This would be an Isuzu unit and it remains to be seen whether the 1.9-litre Blue Power turbodiesel will also be offered in the BT-50. Mazda’s strategy could be to cater to a niche segment with smaller volumes, rather than try to compete over a broad spectrum of customers with extra engine options.

Isuzu Manufacturing Thailand — *The BT-50 will be manufactured for Mazda at Isuzu’s global production hub for the D-MAX in Thailand.*

The new BT-50 will be manufactured by Isuzu Motors at its D-MAX production hub in Thailand. It will go on sale in that market later this year and as it is also a CBU import for the Malaysian market, we could see it here before the year ends too.

Visit www.mazda.com.my to know more about Mazda models available in Malaysia.

Revised Mazda Prices with Sales Tax exemption (from June 15, 2020)

‘The Boss’ gets electrified with the new BMW X5 xDrive45e M Sport

Following on from the launch of the G05 BMW X5 a year ago, BMW Malaysia has now added an electrified variant – the X5 xDrive45e M Sport – to the range. Excluding insurance premium and with the 10% Sales Tax exemption as the model is assembled locally in Kedah, the retail price is RM440,745.

The bestselling model of BMW’s SAV (Sport Activity Vehicle) range worldwide, the X5 has accounted for more than 25% of the X range sold in Malaysia with over 3,000 units delivered. The latest electrified variant has the same larger proportions of the current generation which is the fourth X5 since the model line was launched in 1999.

Additionally, it has slim Adaptive LED headlights with BMW Selective Beam and front LED foglights and the M Sport package. This package includes 20-inch M light alloy wheels in Star Spoke style 740 M Bicolour, along with the signature M Sport brake.

Powering the X5 xDrive45e M Sport is a 3-litre 6-cylinder engine with BMW eDrive technology. With a combined maximum output of 394 bhp/ 600 Nm, the new SAV is claimed to have a top speed of 235 km/h and a 0 to 100 km/h capability of 5.6 seconds.

Running with just the electric motor, the claimed range can be up to 77 kms on a fully charged lithium-ion battery pack, with a top speed of 135 km/h. With the hybrid powertrain optimising fuel efficiency, the fuel consumption is said to be up to 40 kms/litre.

All X5s have all-wheel drive (except for one variant specifically for the US market) which is provided by BMW’s proven xDrive system. Power delivery first goes through a revised 8-speed Steptronic transmission with enhanced shift dynamics and then to all four wheels with torque distribution according to grip and surface conditions. The X5 xDrive45e M Sport is now also equipped with the 2-axle air suspension on the front and rear axles, maximising its dynamic ability and comfort.

Inside the SAV
The highlight of the X5 xDrive45e M Sport is the BMW Live Cockpit Professional with Gesture Control and Intelligent Personal Assistant. This infotainment system combines a 12.3-inch Fully Digital Instrument Display with an equally large touchscreen Control Display. Rear passengers have the Rear Seat Entertainment Professional with a 10.2-inch touchscreen monitor.

The cockpit has Vernasca leather upholstery and like other M Sport versions, comes with the M leather-wrapped steering wheel (with electric adjustment) and Sport front seats. 4-zone automatic air conditioning distributes cool air throughout the cabin efficiently while the 464W 16-speaker Harman Kardon Surround Sound audio system provides superior sound reproduction.

Depending on how much cargo has to be carried on board, the capacity of the boot can be varied from 500 litres with all seats in use to 1,720 litres at maximum. Automatic operation of the split tailgate with contactless opening and closing functions makes loading easier. The top section can be opened electrically, while the bottom section is released manually.

Advanced driver aids
Next-level driving assistance is offered via the BMW Personal CoPilot. This includes the Lane Departure Warning and Lane Changing Warning. The system also features the Frontal Collision Warning with braking intervention, Rear Crossing Traffic Warning, Rear Collision Prevention as well as information on speed limits.

Additionally, the new SAV is equipped with the intelligent Parking Assistant Plus with Surround View Camera, along with the Reversing Assistant. This makes manoeuvring in and out of a parking spot and also reversing in tight spaces much easier and safer. The Reversing Assistant can also assist to reverse out from a parking spot or tight spaces by taking over the steering.

Colour offerings for this new variant include Phytonic Blue, Black Sapphire, Mineral White and Artic Grey. They are complemented with interior upholstery of Leather ‘Vernasca’ design perforations in black and a fine-wood trim ‘Fineline Stripe’ with brown high-gloss.

2020 BMW X5 xDrive45e M Sport — *The X5 xDrive45e M Sport with additional M Performance Genuine Parts and Accessories*

As an added option, the exterior appearance can be enhanced with BMW M Performance Genuine Parts and Accessories. The items available include a front air inlet, exterior mirror cap, front and rear winglets, and rear diffuser in carbonfibre. Side decals and side skirt films in Frozen Black are also available, as well as wheels in Star Spoke Jet Black Matte.

Buying the new X5
With the Balloon Financing Plan from BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia, the X5 xDrive45e M Sport can be owned with a monthly instalment plan starting from RM5,028.00 (based on estimates of an 80% loan on a 5-year tenure).

Every X5 owner will receive the complete BMW Group Malaysia Premium Ownership experience which includes a 5-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Scheduled Service Programme, 8-Year/160,000-km Battery Warranty (whichever comes first), 2-Year/24 Month Tyre Warranty Programme (for Run Flat Tyres), BMW Roadside Assistance and Accident Support, BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile App – BMW White Card, and BMW Service Online.

The X5 xDrive45e M Sport will be in showrooms of all authorised BMW dealerships nationwide from June 20, 2020. Alternatively, from the comfort of the home, interested customers can visit BMW Shop Online for information and to make a booking.

BMW Group Malaysia extends BMW and MINI PHEV battery pack warranties

New Mercedes-Benz Pricelist with Sales Tax Exemption

2020 Mercedes-Benz prices x Sales Tax — *Note: Prices shown are for private registration, excluding insurance premiums. CKD models have full Sales Tax exemption of 10%, CBU models have partial Sales Tax exemption of 5%.*

Click here for other news and articles about Mercedes-Benz.

New Lexus IS introduces ‘The Lexus Driving Signature’

With the debut of the new Lexus IS sports sedan, the premium brand is introducing the ‘Lexus Driving Signature’ that will become the development standard for all future Lexus models. The company explains that the ‘Lexus Driving Signature’ is defined by linear vehicle operation that is faithful to a driver’s intentions, providing seamless transition from braking to steering and acceleration through a corner.

These Lexus dynamic values were achieved by utilising the country road test course at the company’s new technical centre in Shimoyama, Japan, which opened in 2019. The new test course is based on many years of Lexus experience of driving on the Nurburgring Nordschleife, famous for its gruelling driving conditions.

The new test course has been designed to take advantage of the local topography, featuring a change in elevation of about 75 metres, a wide range of curves and a variety of road surfaces. By repeatedly subjecting both vehicle and engineers to daily tests in this severe driving environment, Lexus was able to devise an ever-higher dimension of vehicle performance – with the new IS being the first product to be ‘born’ at the Shimoyama facility.

Toyota Shimoyama Test Course — *Part of Toyota’s new test course at Shimoyama in Japan.*

Reimagined sports sedan concept
The new IS reimagines the sports sedan concept with a low and wide stance, the sleek proportions of a four-door coupe, slimmer headlights and a lower, sharper side character line that combine to express a centre of gravity closer to the ground. This is further emphasised by single-blade rear combination lights sporting an ‘L’ motif and a sharper overall contour created by the character line around the bootlid.

According to Lexus International Chief Designer Kenichi Hirai, the aim for the new IS was to achieve an aggressive design that evokes a sense of driving. “To achieve a high degree of design, Lexus members in product planning, production technology, engineering, and styling combined their various insights and united behind development from an early stage,” he said.

The elaborate and dimensional forms unique to Lexus are made possible by the use of drawing die construction, the latest in high-precision stamping technology that adds a mechanism that slides in tandem with the movement of the stamping press.

Body rigidity is enhanced by reinforcing radiator side supports, increasing the number of front-side-member weld points and optimising structures from the rear-quarter pillars to the sides of the roof, among other areas.

Focus on driving dynamics
Developing the sports sedan, the focus of the engineers’ attention was on driving dynamics and they sought to improve elements such as responsiveness to driver input and the suppression of unnecessary movement in sprung mass. New swing-valve shock absorbers have been employed and are equipped with ultra-low-velocity valves that respond to even minor road irregularities, generating the most appropriate damping force.

The availability of new-design 19-inch tyres improves cornering performance. Hub bolts are used to fasten the wheels, resulting in tight handling and braking due to increased fastening strength and reduced mass. With optional 18-inch wheels (comparative to the previous IS F Sport), the car rides on a 45mm-wider front track and 50mm-wider rear track.

Three powertrains
Besides the IS 300h hybrid powertrain, there is also an advanced 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine available for the IS 300. This now features enhanced adaptive control for the 8-speed automatic transmission. An 8-speed automatic transmission also continues to be available in the 3.5-litre normally aspirated V6-powered IS 350 (powertrain shown below).

New interior themes
Within the new IS are key firsts which include a new form of Lexus decorative expression for part of the door trim. This features a graphic pattern of embossed intersecting lines, new accents in surface treatments and decorative ornamentation.

A 10.3-inch display screen features newly forward-mounted positioning, touch-display functionality and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility for the first time in the model.

Lexus Safety System+ evolved
The Lexus Safety System+ suite has also been upgraded with newly added functions to create a safer on-road experience, including the addition or enhancement of Lane Trace Assist which has improved lane recognition performance that aids stability and comfort by automatically reducing vehicle speed to ensure constant g-forces while driving through curves.

The Pre-Collision Safety System has also been expanded to include intersection detection where, during right turns, the system responds to vehicles and to pedestrians crossing the street from the direction toward which the vehicle was travelling before it started to turn.

Ever since the debut of its first generation in 1999, the IS has pursued the fun of driving unique to compact rear-wheel-drive sports sedans. Approximately 1.09 million units of the sports sedan have been delivered over a span of more than 20 years.

To know more about Lexus models available in Malaysia, visit www.lexus.com.my.

2020 Lexus LC 500 Sports+ available for booking

Revised Prices of Mitsubishi SUV models, effective until December 31, 2020

Mitsubishi Outlander — *For those who want a 7-seater SUV, the Outlander would be good value for money and it is now cheaper too.*

Revised Proton prices with additional ‘Tax Holiday’ Promotion

2020 Proton Prices — *Note: Prices shown are for private registration in Peninsular Malaysia with 10% Sales Tax excluded and special promotional rebates. Insurance premiums not included.*

Proton models — Besides the reduction from exemption of 10% Sales Tax, Proton is reducing prices further with a ‘Tax Holiday’ promotion which offers rebates from RM400 to RM7,000, depending on the model and variant.

Isuzu’s Deferred Instalment Campaign allows you to start repayments up to 6 months later

In a move to help its customers in these challenging times, Isuzu Malaysia is having Deferred Instalment Campaign where repayment of instalments under a Hire-Purchase (H-P) loan can start three or six months after the vehicle has been delivered.

The Isuzu Deferment Instalment Campaign is the first of its kind in the pick-up segment in Malaysia and will be available to customers purchasing new vehicles until August 31, 2020.

Explaining the objective of this campaign, Isuzu Malaysia’s Chief Operating Officer (Light Commercial Vehicle Division), Masayuki Suzuki, said it is to help Malaysians move forward during this recovery period. “A capable, dependable and frugal vehicle is a valuable asset today and a good pick-up truck makes economic sense be it for individuals or organizations. By providing this moratorium, customers can fortify their earnings by putting their brand new Isuzu D-MAX pick-up trucks to work during the deferment period before needing to worry about loan repayments,” said Mr Suzuki.

Up to 90% margin of financing for 84 months
The campaign, in collaboration with Public Bank Berhad, covers almost every model in the Isuzu D-MAX range. Customers can obtain up to 90% financing margin for a maximum tenure of 84 months and the minimum loan amount to qualify for this campaign is RM20,000.00 (terms and conditions apply).

There’s a wide range of variants in the locally-assembled D-Max range to meet different requirements and budgets. Having been in the market for 15 years, the D-MAX has developed an impressive reputation as one of the toughest and most frugal pick-up trucks in Malaysia. These qualities have been proven in gruelling events such as the annual Borneo Safari off-road expedition as well as long-distance economy challenges driving from Bangkok to Singapore using just one tank of fuel.

Small engine displacement, big on output
The latest D-MAX comes with the advanced 1.9-litre Blue Power engine, the smallest engine capacity in the market thereby enjoying the cheapest roadtax in its segment. Even though it has a small capacity, its performance and fuel efficiency are better than the 2.5-litre engine used previously.

Recently, a D-MAX with the engine crossed four of the highest peaks in Peninsular Malaysia carrying a tonne of load, covering a distance of 1,145 kms. From its starting point at the assembly plant in Pekan, Pahang, it reached its destination with fuel to spare in the tank.

More information on the D-MAX and the Isuzu Deferred Instalment campaign can be found at www.isuzu.net.my/pickup.