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BIKES: BMW Motorrad Malaysia Introduces New BMW F 850 GS @ BMW Motorrad Nightfuel In Johor! [+Video]

BMW Motorrad Malaysia provided an exclusive preview of the New BMW F 850 GS at the fifth edition of the BMW Motorrad Nightfuel at Puteri Harbour Front, Johor. Harald Hoelzl, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia said, “It’s exciting to be joined by motorcycle enthusiasts from across the country who show great passion for the BMW Motorrad brand and the premium riding experience that it stands for. The event, now in its fifth edition, demonstrates the strong appeal of the brand in Malaysia, which we aim to carry forward in the improvement of our BMW Motorrad products and services in the future.” As at time of publishing, Piston.my has not received the official on-the-road price of the new F 850 GS.

Last year, BMW Motorrad Malaysia recorded deliveries of 1,052 motorcycles, charting a 5% increase compared to the previous year. With over 900 units of motorcycles already delivered in the first eight months of this year, an increase of over 19% compared to the same period last year, BMW Motorrad Malaysia is on track to achieve stellar performance for motorcycle deliveries this year.

Further solidifying this success, BMW Motorrad Malaysia also thrilled the crowd at the event with an exclusive preview of the New BMW F 850 GS, the newest addition to the middle-class GS family perfect for riders seeking next-level adventure. Owen Riley, Head of BMW Motorrad Malaysia said, “The New BMW F 850 GS promises its owner the ultimate offroad experience, from its sporty design, newly improved engine to its optimised suspension and electronic capabilities. With the riding pleasure it provides, you can truly Make Life A Ride with the New BMW F 850 GS as it is made to take you on and off the road, from open-road touring through to the most adventurous terrain.”

Ever since their debut in 2007, the GS models of the F series have stood for premium riding enjoyment, representing the middle-class Adventure segment. The GS abbreviation represents a perfect synthesis of touring and long-distance capability combined with sporty dynamics and supreme offroad performance. After around ten years of consistent model development, BMW Motorrad has now fully redesigned and reengineered its middle-class GS models, in line with its objective of creating an ultimate riding machine that is even more uncomplicated and carefree, whether used for sport-oriented road riding, on tour complete with luggage and a passenger, or on an adventure trip into offroad terrain.

Check out the video from BMW Motorrad on the GS!

More on the new BMW F 850 GS…

Sharper GS profile with more dynamic design, and improved wind and weather protection.

The New BMW F 850 GS features a completely new look that benefits from a more dynamic and masculine design. The design with its iconic features such as the asymmetric headlight and the GS-typical flyline make it immediately clear that they belong to the BMW Motorrad GS family. The characteristic flyline emanates from the front GS “beak” (upper wheel cover) over and past the fuel tank and seat bench, to the functionally designed and now considerably slimmer rear.

For improved offroad capability, attention was paid to ensuring that there are no inconvenient corners or edges in the vicinity of the fuel tank and seat bench. The wind and weather protection have also been further optimised. The modular structure of the available windshields (original BMW Motorrad accessories) permits individual configuration to suit the wishes of the rider. Standard-series windshields on the New BMW F 850 GS can be simply exchanged, allowing the rider to increase its characteristics towards offroad use or travel comfort.

 

Powerful, new 2-cylinder in-line engine for dynamic riding enjoyment.

The New BMW F 850 GS is equipped with a newly revised engine that represents the success formula of the GS models in the F series for more than ten years, now in comprehensively reengineered and more distinctive form. Focus has been given to increase both power and torque, while reducing fuel consumption. With a displacement of 853 cc, the New BMW F 850 GS generates 70 kW (95 hp) at 8250 rpm, which translates to a supreme level of engine power.

A crankshaft with a 90-degree journal offset and a 270/450 degree firing interval were employed to achieve a powerful and emotionally appealing sound. Unwanted vibrations are absorbed by the new engine’s two counterbalance shafts.

A self-amplifying, anti-hopping clutch provides a discernible reduction in the operating force of the hand clutch, while the reduction in engine drag torque also enhances safety on the road, particularly in the case of braking manoeuvres performed while changing down in gear. Power transmission to the rear wheel comes from the 6-speed gearbox with secondary drive that is now positioned on the left-hand side, for improved driving dynamics.

 

A range of riding modes for greater riding enjoyment and safety.

The New BMW F 850 GS addresses individual rider requirements by offering ‘Rain’ and ‘Road’ riding modes as standard equipment. With the additional Pro riding modes, the equipment will be extended to ‘Dynamic’, ‘Enduro’ and ‘Enduro Pro’, which respond to the majority of road conditions. The combination of BMW Motorrad ABS and the ASC automatic stability control ensure a high level of safety.

 

Newly developed suspension for increased robustness, with wheel guidance at front and rear for more sensitive response.

The bridge frame of the New BMW F 850 GS is made of deep-drawn, welded components. It integrates the 2-cylinder in-line engine as a supporting element and offers benefits in rigidity and robustness. The fuel tank has been placed in the classic position between the seat bench and the steering head, for optimised packaging and an improved centre of gravity.

For more sensitive response, wheel guidance of the New BMW F 850 GS at the front and rear bring together the requirements of offroad and touring, including riding with a passenger and intensive use. The front wheel is guided by an upside-down telescopic fork, and the rear wheel by a double-sided aluminium swinging arm with a central spring strut. In addition, the New BMW F 850 GS is fitted with aluminium cross-spoke wheels with tubeless tyres, with its 21” front wheel providing more riding stability, making it optimal for the ultimate offroad trip.

Optimised ergonomics for carefree offroad riding enjoyment.

As is typical for offroad bikes, the New BMW F 850 GS features generous spring travel distances and large ground clearance. Nevertheless, it isn’t just tall riders who feel comfortable on them. This is ensured by the optimised inner leg curve length and a refined ergonomic triangle around the handlebars, seat bench and footrests.

Connectivity with multifunctional instrument cluster.

The New BMW F 850 GS is equipped as standard with a completely new instrument cluster design. The new optional equipment known as Connectivity, with which the instrument cluster is displayed on a 6.5 inch full-colour TFT display, delivers fast and even clearer information to the rider with minimum distraction from the road. It gives the rider quick access to vehicle and connectivity functions, and makes telephone calls or listening to music easier through seamless connectivity to smartphones.

Extensive equipment selection to customise your ride.

The range of optional equipment and Original BMW Motorrad accessories available for customising the New F 850 GS is unparalleled in the middle-class segment and has been considerably increased since the previous models.

Optional equipment is supplied directly ex works and is integrated in the production process. Different individualisation packages are available such as the Comfort package, Touring package, Dynamic package, and Lights package, each suited for the long journey, added riding pleasure, sporty adventures, or superior illumination.

For colour accents, the owner of the New BMW F 850 GS may choose from three distinctive styles. The Exclusive style with its Pollux metallic matt colour makes for an elegant eye-catcher, while the Rallye style with its Light white, Racing red and Lupin blue metallic colours gives the bike an even sportier accent. Alternatively, owners may choose the basic Racing red option.

Volkswagen Fest Is Back, Bigger & Better This Time!

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) will be hosting its second Volkswagen Fest 2018. With much more on offer this year, the festival will run from 12th till 14th October 2018 at Setia City Convention Centre in Setia Alam. The Volkswagen Fest 2018 will see Volkswagen fans from all walks of life celebrating their love for the brand. The main highlight of this year’s festival will be the unveiling of a special edition model range, and the introduction of Volkswagen’s Customer Loyalty Program.

Over the three days, visitors will get the opportunity to test drive a variety of Volkswagen models, and enjoy rebates and amazing deals on new and pre-registered cars. There will also be free petrol vouchers worth RM3,000 on selected pre-registered cars and on “Starbuys” such as the Vento from as low as RM55,888* and the Golf GTI (below) from as low as RM 188,888*. What’s more, those interested to buy a brand new Volkswagen can take advantage of the ongoing Price Protection Scheme is still applicable for all cars registered before 30 November.

And for the convenience of those wanting to sell off their current vehicle for a Volkswagen, there will be a free car evaluation and quick loan checks by a partner bank to assist in their hire purchase applications. As for existing Volkswagen owners visiting the festival, they will enjoy a free 20-point check on their cars at the designated aftersales booth, which also has other customer care-related activities. Additionally, Volkswagen will be offering a special aftersales membership for the first 200 owners with cars that are four years and older.

Other highlights to look out for at night are an outdoor movie screening on the 12th October at 8:30pm of the iconic Volkswagen Beetle starring in Herbie Fully Loaded (2005), and a mini concert with popular local bands such as Paperplane Pursuit, Talitha Tan and Bunkface on the 13th of October from 7.45pm. There are plenty of activities for visitors and their family members to enjoy such as the array of Klang Valley’s best food trucks, busker performances and Instagram-worthy art installations. For fitness buffs, a sunrise Yoga and HIIT workout session is available on 14th October, Sunday morning from 8am till 10am.

Volkswagen Fest 2018 will take place from the 12th – 14th October 2018 at Setia City Convention Centre in Shah Alam. 
Opening hours are: 
·        10am – midnight (12th – 13th October 2018). 
·        10am – 10pm (14th October 2018). 

WEEKEND SPECIAL – BIKES: Naza Premira Launches Three New Vespa Models! Sprint, Primavera & 300 GTS Supersport [+Video]

Naza Premira Sdn Bhd, official distributor of the Vespa brand in Malaysia today launched three highly anticipated Vespa scooters;  Vespa Primavera 150 MY’18, Vespa Sprint 150 MY’18 and Vespa GTS 300 Super Sport to Malaysians.

The Vespa brand is an expression of a unique and distinctive lifestyle, and its timeless success is tied to its extraordinary history and iconic growth. Embodying the brand’s interpretation “Not for Everyone”, Vespa scooters are made for those who appreciate the true meaning of life, of all genders. Here’s the video of the launch that happened earlier today…

“The new Vespa Primavera, Sprint and GTS Super Sport were crafted to perfection with style, comfort, safety and sturdiness in mind which makes them perfect for manoeuvring through the congested Malaysian traffic,”  said Dato’ Samson Anand George, Group CEO, Automotive Group, Naza Corporation Holdings. “Naza Premira has been appointed the official franchise holder for the Vespa brand in Malaysia in 2010. Since then, we have placed over 11,000 stylish scooters on Malaysian roads, and expanded our reach to Vespa fans with a network of 30 dealerships nationwide today. This year has been a fruitful year for us as we have achieved close to 70% of our sales target of 1,125 units. With the introduction of these three new Vespa models, which are also Vespa fan favourites, we are confident that we will be able to achieve our target by the end of the year,” he added.

The Timeless Classic… Primavera!

The revolutionary Vespa Primavera is the first version of the iconic Vespa scooters, first introduced in 1968. Small, nimble and propelled by a perky engine, the legendary Primavera represents the dream and freedom of the youths and is one of the most successful scooters in Vespa’s history.

Today, the Vespa Primavera embodies all the values that made it successful, inheriting the freshness and ‘joie de vivre’ of its predecessor. Young, innovative, technologically avant-garde, agile and dynamic, the 2018 Vespa Primavera was made for the stylish young free-spirited Malaysian with a love for riding.

Distinguishing it from previous versions, the new Vespa Primavera has a distinctive “tie” featured on its front and a chrome crest on its front mudguard. The scooter is also fitted with 12-inch aluminium alloy wheel rims distinguished by a striking new five-spoke design; the largest in Vespa’s history to ensure greater stability, safety and hold on all road surfaces. It is also equipped with new LED lighting technology on both the tail light and front light for added safety.

The Vespa Primavera is now available in a new range of youthful and vibrant colours; Beige Metallic, Nero Vulcano and Monto Bianco. Coupled with its timeless style, the scooter is the perfect match for your pastel-coloured luxury sneakers and the boxy, ladylike bag that is taking over fashion runways this season.

The heart of the Vespa Primavera is a modern one-cylinder four-stroke 150 cc i-get engine designed to provide a smooth, quiet and comfortable ride. Delivering a power and torque of 9.5 kW at 7,750 rpm and 12.8 Nm at 6,500 rpm respectively, the new Primavera is perfect for travelling on congested city roads and open-road stretches. Additionally, its powerful engine is environmental-friendly with extremely low fuel consumption.

Vespa Primavera owners can opt to customise their scooters according to their taste with a wide range of stylish accessories that improves riding comfort such as the top box, backrest, top fairing and chrome-plated front and rear luggage racks. Electronic anti-theft device and the mechanical saddle – handlebar anti-theft device are also available to provide riders with a peace of mind. The Vespa Primavera starts at RM15,600.

The Youngest and Sportiest… Sprint!

The Vespa Sprint is the most modern interpretation of the sports version of a Vespa. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, the youthful scooter is crafted to achieve high level of stability and handling that translates everyday travel into fun. Designed for the independent, dynamic and adventurous wanderer, the new Vespa Sprint is the ultimate road companion for the sporty Malaysian urbanite with its small build, extreme agility and safety features.

Made entirely of steel, the Vespa Sprint is fitted with 12-inch aluminium alloy wheel rims and adopts upgraded LED lighting technology for both its front headlight and rear light which boosts the rider’s safety. The youthful and sporty scooter also spots a new “tie” featured on its front, distinguishing it from its predecessors.

With the ability to seamlessly steer through city traffic, the new Vespa Sprint is driven by a modern environmental-friendly one-cylinder four-stroke 150 cc i-get engine which delivers power and torque of 9.5 kW at 7,750 rpm and 12.8 Nm at 6,500 rpm with new levels of stability and reliability.

The Vespa Sprint also comes with a wide range of accessories for customisation including a dedicated top box, backrest, customised windscreen with Vespa logo and front side and rear chrome mudguards, further complemented by two-colour aluminium alloy wheels and “Sport” graphics. For added peace of mind, electronic anti-theft device and mechanical saddle – handlebar anti-theft device are also available for the Vespa Sprint. With four colour options; Blue Matt, Monte Bianco, Rosso Dragon and Grigio Titantio, the Vespa Sprint starts at RM 16,400.

The Most Powerful and Elegant… 300GTS Supersport!

Donning the largest body in the Vespa line-up, the Vespa GTS Super Sport inherits the legacy of the legendary “Vespone” and moves elegantly around the city and on adventurous voyages driven by its powerful engine. The Vespa GTS 300 Super Sport is the most aggressive version among the GTS series, exuding confidence, style and status which perfectly complements the personality of those born to take the lead. Its sporty elegance is further accentuated with its aesthetic features such as the new cravatta and dedicated graphics, and its signature black saddle.

Embodying the harmonious combination of style, comfort, safety, and sportiness, the GTS Super Sport is ready to take on all journeys on all types of roads. Powered by the 300 cc single cylinder Quasar engine, the sporty scooter delivers a maximum power of 15.6 kW at 7,750 rpm and a maximum torque of 22 Nm at 5,000 rpm, ensuring a quick throttle response and brilliant performance. It also comes standard with double channel ABS system, the exclusive ASR traction control system; a benchmark of the Piaggio group, safe electric side-stand and standard anti-theft immobiliser in the ignition key.

Vespa GTS Super Sport owners can also customise their scooters with a wide range of accessories such as a painted top box, leg cover, outdoor vehicle cover and saddle-handlebar anti-theft. For added convenience, the GTS Super Sport is also equipped with an electric remote opening system on its saddle, bike finder and USB port for easy charging of smartphones and other electronic devices. Starting at RM28,000, the Vespa GTS 300 Super Sport comes in two chic colours; Red Matt and Grigio Titanio.

The Malaysian fan favourite models Vespa Primavera 150 MY’18, Vespa Sprint 150 MY’18 and GTS 300 Super Sport are now available for viewing at all authorised Vespa dealerships and outlets nationwide.

Volvo Car Malaysia Introduces All-New XC40 SUV! [+Video]

Stunning. Photos really don’t do this SUV any justice whatsoever folks. First-off, in terms of physical size, the XC40 was built using Volvo’s Compact Modular Architecture (CMA), and this in itself should allude to the fact that the XC40 is not a large SUV. In fact, it’s about the size of a Honda HR-V or BMW X1. Here’s the walk-around video…

Despite its compact exterior dimensions though, the XC40’s CMA build-philosophy seems to have pulled-off that all-so-important “small on the outside, big on the inside” trick quite well. Just from casual observation, it’s clear there’s a lot of room within the cabin, which by the way, is beautifully crafted and put-together.

There’s only one variant on offer, the XC40 T5 R-Design, which is powered by a turbocharged, petrol-driven 2.0-litre Drive-E powertrain that churns out 252bhp and 350Nm of torque, allowing the XC40 to sprint from a standstill to 100kmh in just 6.4 seconds. More sedate driving will see it return a combined fuel-consumption figure of 7.7L/100km. For the full specifications, click this link. (The full press release is below the photo gallery)

Priced at RM255,888 (OTR w/o insurance), the all-new XC40 will be at all VCM’s dealerships starting 6th October 2018. Stay tuned for the full review coming soon!

Introducing the new Volvo XC40
GENTING HIGHLANDS – Volvo Car Malaysia, the premium car maker, will bring a new standard of safety and user experience to the premium small SUV segment with the launch of the 2018 European Car of the Year, the new Volvo XC40. The new XC40 is developed around the challenges of modern city life, aimed at making the daily urban commute less stressful and more enjoyable, as drivers and passengers within this segment can now enjoy Volvo’s award-winning safety, semi-autonomous driving, and infotainment technologies that are well-known with Volvo’s 90s and 60s range.

“The new XC40 builds on our heritage as a human-centric brand that focuses on the well-being of the driver and passengers through the combination of innovative technologies that offers the best in safety standards, driver-assistance technologies, and intuitive design,” said Lennart Stegland, Managing Director of Volvo Car Malaysia.
Built on Volvo’s new Compact Modular Architecture (CMA), the new XC40 will enjoy a range of ground-breaking technologies that were first introduced in its larger siblings, based on the larger Scalable Product Architecture (SPA).
These technologies include Pilot Assist (semi-autonomous driving), the latest generation of City Safety (autonomous collision mitigation and avoidance, including pedestrian, cyclist and large animal detection), Run-off Road Protection and Mitigation, Cross Traffic Alert with Auto Brake, and many more.

“On top of these innovations that we’re introducing into this segment, the new XC40 will also seek to end clutter inside the cabin by carefully designing practical and functional storage areas that was done based on extensive consumer insight,” adds Stegland. During the development phase of the XC40, Volvo Cars’ customer research team spent a considerable time investigating how city dwellers across the globe use their cars, and more importantly, how their belongings are stored within the cabin.

For instance, to provide better storage space in the doors of the new XC40, Volvo designers chose a radical new approach. By moving speakers from the door and developing a world-first, air-ventilated dashboard-mounted sub-woofer, Volvo created enough storage in the door compartment for a laptop and a tablet, or a couple of water bottles.
“The core tenet of Scandinavian design is the perfect balance of aesthetics and function. For example, the tunnel is not only designed to be visually pleasing but the cup holders themselves provide areas for coins, card, charging cables and a usable space for your phone which offers wireless charging as well as USB ports,” said Stegland.

The XC40 also offers slots for credit and service cards that can be neatly inserted into the dashboard, making them readily available when needed. In the tunnel console, under the armrest, there is a large storage area with room for a tissue box. A special, removable bin allows you to discard and quickly get rid of waste. A small fold-away hook has been added to the glove compartment, allowing you to secure small shopping or take-away bags. The driver’s side offers a storage space under the seat, large enough for a mini tablet or other smaller items.

Malaysians will get to enjoy the R-Design as a standard trim level for the XC40 T5 which reflects a more dynamic and premium feel, matching the demands of the local market. “We have acted on the feedback from our customers and the media to explore more vivid exterior colours, on top of having the R-Design trim level as a standard – with this new selection of exterior colours, we hope to offer our customers a greater range of self-expression,” said Stegland.

Customers will have the option to choose between four distinct colours: Bursting Blue, Fusion Red, Cyrstal White and Osmium Grey. In terms of performance, the XC40 T5 R-Design will be equipped with Volvo’s highly-innovative, 2-litre Drive-E powertrain which will output a total of 252 hp (metric) and 350 Nm of torque, returning 7.7 litres for every 100 km travelled (NEDC, combined cycle) and recording an acceleration to 100 km/h of only 6.4 s.

The XC40 T5 R-Design will be priced at RM255,888 (on-the-road, without insurance, inclusive of excise duty and sales tax). The new XC40 will be available for viewing at all authorised Volvo dealers nationwide starting tomorrow.

Kereta Nasional Baru akan sedia tahun 2020?

Sebuah sidang akhbar telah diadakan oleh Organisasi Perkongsian Pintar Pihak Kerajaan dan Swasta (MIGHT) semalam dimana pihak mereka telah dimandat oleh YAB Perdana Menteri,Tun Mahathir Mohamad berkenaan Projek Kereta Nasional Baru (NNCP). (more…)

Malaysia’s Third National Car Is A Go – MIGHT Announces Launch By 2020! [+Video]

No, your eyes don’t deceive you; there really is a Third National Car on the way! MIGHT or the Malaysian Industry-Government for High-Technology held a press conference recently and here’s the video on it…

With ambitious plans to have a ‘prototype’ vehicle (note we didn’t say “car”) by early 2019, and a vehicle on the road by 2020 (note we still haven’t said car) MIGHT seems confident that this endeavour, funded entirely (or almost entirely) by the private sector and not the taxpayers, will have ‘semi-autonomous’ driving capabilities and packed with the latest cutting-edge automotive components, and built using “Disruptive Technology*” (*see below gallery). While domestic sales are a given, exports to neighbouring countries are a key area that MIGHT be looked into. See what I did there?

So why haven’t we said “car” despite it being in the title and project name? That’s because despite the plans to have a prototype unveiled in the next 6-months or so (if ‘early 2019’ is anything to go by; we’ll peg it as the first quarter), there’s still no decision if the vehicle will be a passenger sedan, hatchback, SUV, MPV or truck. Neither was any indication given to a choice of powertrain, i.e ICE, Hybrid, Diesel, PHEV, electric, etc.

A quick glance at MIGHT’s website didn’t do much to alleviate any of the confusion or questions. No decision yet on body-style, no decision yet on powertrain, and yet a working prototype will be ready in “early 2019”, with an actual vehicle ready for sale to the masses by 2020. This we gotta see…

Our friends at Behind the Wheel summed it up best “Basically they’re counting on the use of disruptive technology* (see below gallery for definition) in place of conventional vehicle development and production methods to hit all the ambitious targets set here, much like (what) Elon Musk achieved with Tesla; However, someone neglected to inform them that there’s only one real-life Tony Stark and Musk has already filled the opening”. Touche fellas.

What is Disruptive Technology?

A disruptive technology is one that displaces an established technology and shakes up the industry or a ground-breaking product that creates a completely new industry. Harvard Business School professor Clayton M. Christensen coined the term disruptive technology. In his 1997 best-selling book, “The Innovator’s Dilemma,” Christensen separates new technology into two categories: sustaining and disruptive. Sustaining technology relies on incremental improvements to an already established technology. Disruptive technology lacks refinement, often has performance problems because it is new, appeals to a limited audience and may not yet have a proven practical application. (Source: Whatis.TechTarget.com)

THROWBACK THURSDAY: VW Golf GTi 2.0 TSI Reviewed In 5-Minutes! [+Video]

Oh boy, this is gonna be a tough one. You see in this line of work, which now spans for half my lifetime (no, really, I started out in my early 20’s and I just turned 50, wow.) I’ve driven a LOT of cars. Some were good, some were wanting, and some were just downright dismal. I’ve seen a lot of changes in the automotive industry, especially from this side of the fence, the biggest one of course being the advent of digital media. Don’t forget when I first started out we were still using print film. What’s ‘film’ you ask? Sheesh, ever heard of ‘proofs’? Very soon, you never will again, mark my words.

Why is this gonna be a tough one? Well, with any car review, there are always pros and cons, good and bad, pretty and pretty ugly. It’s our job to best convey all this in the most presentable and tactful manner, for if it’s one thing I’ve learned in the last quarter century, “it’s not what you say but how you say it”. This old adage still rings true today, digital world and all. Here comes the problem though (finally); after a week with the Golf GTi, I couldn’t find anything I didn’t like about it. I couldn’t find one thing wrong with it. As such, my usual 5-minute in-car review became a whopping 13-minutes! Sorry ya, I lied in the headline. Here it is…

I’ve pretty much covered everything I wanted to say about the Golf GTi in that video, so do take a minute (well, 13 anyway) to watch it, because I even went as far as giving marriage advice and helping you justify to the other half why you ‘needed’ to buy a Golf GTi. And by the way, if you need to know the price and detailed specifications, you can click and download this: VW Golf GTi Price & Specs

One of the things I can never comment about though is long-term ownership of course, but at my last interaction with the folks at VPCM, I was informed that the thorny “DSG issue” had been sorted out a long time ago. And while no specifics were given, I’m quite certain it all boiled down (pun intended) to our climate, traffic conditions, and in particular our heat & humidity, which caused a ruckus in that whole system earlier.

(NB: To ALL car and bike importers here, “tropicalisation” is a must for any vehicle you introduce. I’ve said this countless times)

With that sorted, it’s heartening to know that with 230Ps and 350Nm of torque, the Golf GTi is every bit as fun as you’d expect a hot-hatch to be. There’s oodles of low-end torque on tap, because the GTi makes all of it between 1,500rpm and 4,600rpm. Think of it this way; from just over idle speed, you have 350Nm of torque at your toe-tips. So ferocious is the power delivery in Sport mode that I actually felt torque-steer for the first time since reviewing the Mazda3 MPS.

The true beauty, or rather, the most impressive aspect of the Golf GTi though is that you really don’t need to drive like the devil himself is after you all the time. Yes, there’s Sport mode for that odd occasion you find yourself on your favourite stretch of deserted road, but I would reckon 90% of the time the GTi will be in Normal or Eco mode, and that’s fine too. I kid you not, it’s like having two cars in one.

See? 4-doors, back seat. Family car what! Ahem 😉

Come to think of it, that’s the most appealing aspect of the GTi. It allows you to be a teenager all over again, while at the same time, allows you to revert back to your current self, in the here and now. And that way, even after 25-years, and after the 90% Normal & Eco modes are put away, this car will make you feel the way you felt the very first time you got your license and your first car.

It’s exhilarating, it’s intoxicating, it’s a veritable fountain-of-youth. As I said in my video, don’t take my word for it, go drive it for yourself. The Golf GTi made me realise why I’ve been doing this for the last quarter-century, so despite its quarter-million sticker price, to me, it’s priceless. – Chris Wee.

For more details on the VW Golf GTi 2.0 TSI, click this link.

VW Golf GTi Photo Gallery…

PARIS MOTORSHOW: Porsche Announces 911 Speedster Will Go Into Production In 2019!

The 911 Speedster concept study, presented during the 70th birthday of the sports car manufacturer, will be produced as a limited special edition: Porsche has decided to start producing the purist Porsche 911 Speedster in the first half of 2019. Exactly 1,948 units of the open-top two-seater will be built. The number reminisces the Porsche 356 “Number 1” that received its operating license on June, 8 back in 1948. In Paris, Porsche presented this year’s second Speedster Concept study. Its Guards Red paintwork is a reference to the 1988 911 Speedster of the G-Model generation. The new cross-spoke 21-inch wheels in cross spoke and the black leather interior create a tasteful and sporty appearance.

Dream becomes reality: The driveable 911 Speedster Concept, initially presented on June 8 in 2018 in Zuffenhausen as a “Heritage” version, will go into production in 2019. The car was developed at Porsche Motorsport in Weissach in cooperation with Style Porsche and Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur. The future 911 Speedster, based on the 991 range, will be the first car to be offered with the new Heritage Design Packages. This exclusive accessory line by Porsche Exclusive allows for an even higher degree of personalization for the 911.

In addition to the eye-catching paintwork, 21-inch center lock wheels are another visual highlight of this latest concept study presented in Paris. Their cross-spoke wheel design is similar to that of Porsche racing cars such as the 911 RSR and the GT3 R. The tinted daytime running lights were also inspired by racing. Matching the study’s paintwork, they are kept in red. The two “Talbot”-shaped exterior mirrors as well as the fuel tank cap – centrally positioned on the bonnet – shine in black-chrome and platinum. In contrast to the previously shown “Heritage” version, the interior is using partly perforated black leather upgraded with red highlights.

All body components as well as the entire technology of both the 911 Speedster Concept cars are identical. This includes the shortened window frames with their lowered cowl top panels and the smaller side windows as well as the carbon-fibre rear bonnet with the double-bubble cover behind the seats. Both cars come with a lightweight Tonneau cover, fitted by Tenax buttons, instead of a convertible soft top.

The concept cars’ body is based on the 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet. The fenders, as well as the front and rear bonnet are made from lightweight carbon fibre composite while the chassis was taken from the 911 GT3. Furthermore, the GT development department provided the exhaust system with its titanium tailpipes and the drivetrain including the manually operated six-speed gearbox. The same goes for the centrepiece of the limited special edition: The Speedster Concept is powered by a naturally aspirated flat-six engine developing more than 500bhp and capable of engine speeds up to 9,000 rpm.

Ferrari 488 Pista Spider Makes Its European Debut At Paris Motorshow Along With SP1 & SP2! [+Video]

After its world premiere at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance®, the new special series Ferrari 488 Pista Spider has made its European debut at the Paris Motor Show. The 50th drop-top model to be introduced by the Prancing Horse is also the most powerful series production spider in Ferrari history, with an unprecedented weight/power ratio of 1.92 kg/cv.

The Ferrari 488 Pista Spider combines the finest race-developed technological solutions with the joy of en plein air driving to deliver an exhilarating experience behind the wheel. The driver feels absolutely as one with the car in a symbiotic relationship that guarantees instantaneous responsiveness to commands and absolute control when executing even the most complex manoeuvres. This is hardly surprising as the Ferrari 488 Pista Spider benefits from the greatest technological transfer from the track of any road-legal open-top car.

The model’s engine, dynamics and aerodynamics are derived from two track cars: the   488 Challenge and the 488 GTE. The latter won the GT class of the FIA World Endurance Championship in 2017, thus giving Ferrari a total of five GT Manufacturers’ titles since the championship’s inception in 2012. Furthermore, this model has very clearly benefited from the extensive development work done to produce the coupé version, the 488 Pista.

 

The Ferrari 488 Pista Spider sports the most powerful V8 engine in Maranello history which was also named Best Engine for the third consecutive year at the 2018 International Engine of the Year Awards. The 3902cc twin-turbo V8 unleashes 720 cv (50 cv more than the 488 Spider) with torque calibrated to deliver a feeling of constant, ever-increasing acceleration. The engine also won the special “Best of the Best” title as the top engine of all the winners of the last 20 years.

 

Its performance figures are the highest of any spider ever built by the Prancing Horse, including 0-100 km/h acceleration in 2.85 seconds and a lap time at Fiorano of just 1’21’’5. The 488 Pista Spider’s target client is a typical diehard Ferrarista who already owns other Ferrari spiders. These are drivers that want to feel all the power and speed the 488 Pista Spider is capable of yet also enjoy drop-top driving and the soundtrack of that unparalleled engine.

But the innovations are not confined merely to a boost in power output – they also extend to an overall reduction in weight and beyond. In fact, the Ferrari 488 Pista Spider delivers even better handling, making it one of the most enthralling models Ferrari has ever produced, thanks also to multiple innovations in various different areas.

Also at the Paris Motorshow…

The Ferrari Monza SP1 and SP2 are the forerunners in a new concept, known as ‘Icona’ (Icon), that taps into a leitmotif of the most evocative cars in the company’s history to create a new segment of special limited series cars for clients and collectors. The intention is to use a modern aesthetic to reinterpret a timeless style, with technologically advanced components and the highest performance possible through continuous innovation.

The Ferrari Monza SP1 and SP2 are inspired by barchettas of the 1950s which were driven to victory in international motor sport not just by official works team drivers from the Scuderia, but also by a legion of gentlemen drivers who, in those years, frequently found themselves wheel to wheel with legendary professional drivers of the era.

The first ever Ferrari to be referred to as a barchetta was the open-top version of the 1948 166 MM. The name was coined by Giovanni Agnelli who, upon seeing the car for the first time at the Turin Motor Show that year, commented that it was less like a car and more like a barchetta, referring to the Italian for a small speed boat. The Touring-bodied 166 MM barchetta wrote Ferrari’s name firmly in the history books, winning first the Mille Miglia and then the grueling 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1949. This model was followed by other extraordinarily successful Ferrari Sports cars, such as the 750 Monza and 860 Monza which were inspiration for the name of the new models.

Barchettas were similar to spiders in form (two seaters), but had no roof or weather equipment. Instead of a full windscreen, they were equipped with just a small screen (single or wrap-around) and a removable tonneau cover over the passenger side. The Monza SP1 and SP2 are similar in concept, although the main difference is that they can be ordered either as a single-seater or as a two-seater. The result is a car that seems sculpted by the wind. It is the purity of the styling elements that impresses – an aesthetic that is futuristic but, at the same time, a respectful yet un-nostalgic homage to the past.

Enzo Ferrari used to say that “If there is such a thing as a soul, engines have one”. This model’s soul is, as is true of all Ferraris, in its engine. The Ferrari Monza SP1 and SP2 are equipped with the most powerful naturally-aspirated V12 ever produced by Ferrari. Thanks to specific areas of development, the power of the 812 Superfast’s 6.5 litre has been increased by 10 cv to 810 cv at 8500 rpm with a slight increase in torque to 719 Nm at 7000 rpm.

Just like on racing cars, extensive use of carbon-fibre has been made throughout the construction of the Monza SP1 and SP2 to make them light and responsive and to enhance their sporty, aggressive visual appeal. As these are completely en plein air sports cars with no windscreen, one of the biggest challenges was to create an aerodynamic solution that would ensure the driver enjoys the performance of the cars without being affected by issues caused by the barchetta configuration. The result was the patented “Virtual Wind Shield” which is integrated into the fairing ahead of the instrument panel and the steering wheel, providing exceptional driving comfort.

Ferrari @ Paris Motorshow Photo Gallery…

ENGINE

In terms of its characteristics and performance, the 488 Pista Spider’s engine sets the benchmark not just for new generation turbo engines but all engines, including naturally aspirated ones.  This is why it was voted “Engine of the Year” for three years running: 2016, 2017 and 2018. It is also the most powerful V8 ever sported by a road-going Ferrari in terms of both its overall and specific power outputs. It also delivers the highest power increase over the model it was developed from, the 488 Spider.

BIKES: Millennium Welt Introduces New BMW Motorrad Dealership In Kuantan

BMW Motorrad Malaysia and Millennium Welt launched a new BMW Motorrad showroom at its existing showroom facility in Kuantan recently, to better serve premium motorcycle customers and enthusiasts in the East Coast Region of Peninsular Malaysia. Millennium Welt was appointed by BMW Group Malaysia as its newest representative for the BMW Motorrad brand in Kuantan and the East Coast Region of Peninsular Malaysia, in July this year.

Mr. Harald Hoelzl, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia (above) said, “The East Coast region presents great growth potential for the BMW Motorrad brand and Millennium Welt is a key partner in the Group’s effort to strengthen its position in the region. With over 800 units of motorcycles already delivered year-to-date, an increase of over 24% compared to the same period last year, we are on track to achieve better performance by the end of the year.”

Last year’s global deliveries across the BMW Motorrad range increased by 13.2%, with a total of 164,153 units delivered worldwide. The growth was reflected in Malaysia, with 1,052 motorcycles delivered, charting a 5% increase in sales performance compared to the previous year.

On the unique appeal of BMW Motorrad to riders in the region, Mr. Owen Riley, Head of BMW Motorrad Malaysia, (above, centre) said, “The East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia offers some of the best terrains and great windy roads that are perfect for motorcycle riding. With a BMW Motorrad motorcycle, it’s never just about getting from one point to another, it’s about Making Life A Ride, seeking that thrill that comes from that unique journey charted by you – and you only.”

Mr. Bryan Wong, Managing Director of Millennium Welt Group of Companies (below, right) said, “With the opening of the new BMW Motorrad showroom, we are committed to improving our delivery of the premium BMW experience to motorcycle enthusiasts in the region. Since our appointment as the brand’s representative in July, we have had the privilege of witnessing and supporting many customers Make Life A Ride, through not only their passion for riding but also their zest for life, which only motivate us to continue serving our customers better.”

(L-R) Yuen Woon Choon, Dealer Principal of Millennium Welt, Owen Riley, Head of BMW Motorrad Malaysia & Bryan Wong, Managing Director of Millennium Welt Group of Companies

In addition to BMW Motorrad, Millennium Welt Kuantan offers a range of products and services including BMW models and MINI Service. The dealership operates from a 28,000 sq ft showroom facility, capable of displaying up to eight BMW Motorrad motorcycles and five BMW vehicles. The showroom is located at 32, Jalan Teluk Sisek, 25000 Kuantan, Pahang.

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