Following its launch yesterday, we’re currently en route to Penang in the new Nissan Serena S-Hybrid Highway Star and thus far it’s proven to be a very capable 7-seater MPV.
How do 14 cup-holders sound to you? Or the 7 USB ports? It’s capable of sustaining highway speeds quite easily, and tops out at about 190kmh, which is more than fast enough for a vehicle in this category.
Here’s the first impression video, with Yap Kam Foo of EVO/Aurizn, with Christina from Top Gear and Bryan Au of Motor Trader in the back. Do stay tuned for more to come!
Some of us sniggered when the name ‘Highway Star’ was first announced by ETCM for its high-line Serena MPV some years ago, of course this was only done by the more senior motoring media, and anyone who knew music in the 70’s would remember that iconic song by Deep Purple. Yes, I’m old. And just in case you’d like to know what it sounded like, I’ve linked the actual song at the end of this article; sorry, it just had to be done…
So anyway, a new Highway Star arrived today in the form of the new Nissan Serena, available in S-Hybrid 2.0 Highway Star and S-Hybrid 2.0 Premium Highway Star, priced at RM135,500 and RM147,500 respectively. Both are powered by the same 2,0-litre engine mated to a XTRONIC-CVT (continuously variable transmission), that churns out 150Ps and 200Nm of torque.
The addition of what Nissan dubs a ECO Motor with Electric Power Re-generator, secondary battery and torque assist allows for much better acceleration from a standstill, and no, the Serena is not able to run on electric power alone. Think of the system as an additional power-pack for the MPV that boosts its power and aids fuel-efficiency by assisting the internal-combustion engine; something like a power-bank for your Smartphone.
At the media launch event, Sales and Marketing Director of ETCM, Mr. Christopher Tan (above) said: “In 2013, ETCM was the first to introduce a hybrid MPV to Malaysia. Today, Malaysia is the first country outside Japan to locally-assemble the All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid. This is to support the local popularity of the All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid; and to-date, we have already collected 1,300 bookings.”
Also present at the launch was Mr Vincent Wijnen (above), Vice President, Marketing and Sales, Asia and Oceania, Nissan Motor Asia Pacific Co., Ltd. “In many ways, the Nissan Serena is a strong symbol of Nissan itself. Serena, not surprisingly then, has consistently been one of the most popular passenger cars. In fact, this calendar year, it’s number-one in its class in Japan, with more than 33,000 units sold so far.”, he said.
More details on the new Nissan Serena S-Hybrid…
The All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid adopts Nissan’s new generation global design language that creates a more dynamic and sporty styling. The core features are the new V-Motion Strut Grille, Dual Layer LED Projector Headlamp and LED Signature Lamp, Floating Roof design that highlights the spacious cabin, and LED Tail Lamps that are now fashioned with a distinctive S-Shaped design.
Nissan Intelligent Mobility (NIM) features have been added to provide a more exciting, confident and connected drive. The key highlights include:
S-Hybrid system with upgraded ECO motor that controls the Idling Stop system, and provides additional torque assist in start-up acceleration. It also acts as an alternator to facilitate energy recuperation during deceleration and braking;
First in its class Intelligent Around View Monitor (I-AVM), uses 4 cameras that provide a 360° bird’s-eye view of the vehicle for easier navigation;
Intelligent Moving Object Detection (I-MOD), detects and alerts the driver of moving objects surrounding the vehicle;
Smartphone connectivity with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™, so that the driver is able to stay focus on the road and still being able to get turn-by-turn navigation directions, receive and make calls, listen and reply to messages, and play music using voice commands.
The All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid is powered by a 2.0L (MR20DD) Twin CVTC (Continuously Variable-valve Timing Control) engine, paired with XTRONIC CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with Adaptive Shift Control (ASC); maximum power output is now at 150PS / 6,000rpm with a torque of 200Nm / 4,400rpm. Adoption of the new Dual Arm Tensioner (DAT) to maintain optimal tensile force on the belt to reduce friction, reduce power lost and increase fuel efficiency.
Improvements to the engine have resulted in a 2.8% improvement in power-to-weight ratio and the best-in-class fuel economy of 14.2 km/L (NEDC R101) which is a 13% fuel economy improvement over its predecessor earning the All-New Serena S-Hybrid the Energy Efficient Vehicle (EEV) status.
On top of the powertrain improvement, the All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid also enhances the ease of driving and handling. The All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid adopts a sound-absorbing liner in the wheelhouse to improve cabin quietness. Increasing the steering rack gear ratio for quicker turning through reduced steering-wheel lock-to-lock turns. The variable assist electric power steering gives a lighter steering feel at low speed (when parking) and a firm feel at higher speeds for improved stability. Stiffer front and rear suspension mounting as well as the addition of high performance valve in the shock absorbers deliver a more stable and comfortable ride.
The All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid also offers new technologies that are first in its class in providing thoughtful conveniences. Beginning with Hands-Free Dual Power Sliding Door which operates by a simple quick kick below the door to open or close when your hands are full, Dual Back Door that can be opened easily even in tight parking spaces, Capless Fuel Filler which makes refuelling more convenient, and 7 USB-Powered Ports for each passenger’s electronic device charging needs.
The modern and premium interior of the All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid is a delight to the driver and passengers. The Soft Padded Instrumental Panel featuring Nissan’s gliding-wing design delivers a sense of panoramic openness, while the full colour 7-inch Advance Drive Assist Display (ADAD) provides vehicle and driving information. A Flat Bottom Leather Steering Wheel with Cruise Control, asymmetrical centre cluster housing the premium 6.75-inch Clarion Advanced Touchscreen Display Audio, Push Start Ignition with the Intelligent Key for keyless operation and a Dual-Zone Auto ClimateControl System with rear digital control panel as well as air conditioning ducts for all 3 rows, complete a technologically advance interior.
The interior space of the All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid is the largest and most flexible in its class. The 7-seater MPV now comes with extended interior length by 180mm, additional 20mm and 65mm for its height and width respectively, offering more space between all rows of seats thus improving the ride comfort for all passengers. First in its class Zero Gravity Inspired Seats provide spinal support to reduce passenger fatigue during long drives is now available for 1st and 2nd row seats.
The All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid now comes with 2nd row Captain Seats with dual armrest, and a personal table offering the luxury of individual seating. With this new seating layout, occupants gain a comfortable walkthrough access from the 1st to the 3rd row. This spacious 7-seater MPV follows it predecessors with a variety of seating and cargo combinations, offering 13 different seating configurations to fulfil all needs and requirements.
Traditionally, 3rd row passenger find it the most inconvenient to exit the vehicle. The All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid solves this by re-designing the C-pillar rearward by 50mm, to make a wider sliding door opening and with the addition of a Power Sliding Door Switch (left sliding door only) in the 3rd row, as well as a new step-release that enables 2nd row seats to slide forward with ease, passengers can exit the 3rd row comfortably and conveniently.
6 SRS Airbags is now standard in the All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid, and other safety features include Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Hill Start Assist (HSA), and ISOFIX Child Seat Restraint system for 2nd row seats.
“Besides being one of the best looking MPVs in Malaysia, the All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybridis equipped with many new intelligent technologies and smart features that will bring abundance of joy and happiness to many families. The All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid is simply magical,” added Mr Christopher Tan.
The All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid Highway Star comes with a fresh new colour, Cashmere Gold alongside its three current colours; Diamond Black, Brilliant White and Tungsten Silver. While the Premium Highway Star offers a Two-Tone exterior colour design with Brilliant White (Body) and Diamond Black (Roof), Tungsten Silver (Body) and Diamond Black (Roof), and Cashmere Gold (Body) and Imperial Umber (Roof).
Additionally, the Premium Highway Star offers more sophistication with Combination Leather Seats with a colour choice of Two-Tone Truffle Brown and Chestnut or Single-tone Black, 10.1-inch Roof-Mounted LCD Panel, Tech-on Tray Mat (for the personal table), Driving Video Recorder (DVR), LED Room Lamp, V-KOOL 4Mil Security Film Tinting, 16-inch Diamond Cut Alloy Wheels, and Door Visors.
The All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid is priced at RM147,500 for the Premium Highway Star and RM135,500 for the Highway Star (OTR price without insurance for Peninsular Malaysia), with a 5-year Unlimited Mileage Warranty.
A 3-year/60,000km (whichever comes first) Maintenance Service promotion is offered as part of the launch campaign. Additionally, the first 500 registered vehicles will also receive a free Terzo Portable Cooler Box by PIAA (worth RM 500).
NISSAN SERENA 2.0L S-HYBRID
PREMIUM HIGHWAY STAR (RM)
HIGHWAY STAR (RM)
Peninsular Malaysia
147,500
135,500
Sabah & Sarawak
150,200
138,200
*OTR Price inclusive GST, without Insurance
For more information, visit www.nissan.com.my or call the Nissan Customer Care Centre Hotline at 1800 88 3838.
Nissan Serena S-Hybrid Photo Gallery…
This damn song has been stuck in my head all day, so be warned, major earworm ahead! – Chris Wee.
Naza Italia, official importer and distributor of the Ferrari brand in Malaysia, has unveiled the brand’s new V8 GT, the Ferrari Portofino, in an exclusive event held at the Bukit Kiara Equestrian & Country Resort in Kuala Lumpur today. The Portofino, which debuted at the Frankfurt International Motor Show last year, is a perfect combination of luxury, versatility and on-board comfort. This new GT is set to dominate its segment.
The Ferrari Portofino takes its name from one of the most attractive villages on the Italian Riviera in the Liguria Region. Like its namesake, the Ferrari Portofino is a stylish symbol of scenic beauty and elegant daily living. It effortlessly converts from an authentic ‘berlinetta’ coupé to a drop-top that delivers the characteristic Ferrari V8 soundtrack for superb driving pleasure. The specially redesigned retractable hard top can now be opened or closed in a quick 14 seconds whilst on the move at lower speeds, making it even more practical for use in day-to-day situations.
Powered by the Ferrari V8 turbo, a member of the engine family that won the International Engine of the Year Award in 2016 and 2017 consecutively, the new car boasts an ability to unleash a tremendous 600cv and sprint from 0-100km/h in just 3.5 seconds. Due to the adoption of new components and the calibration of the engine management software, the power output is 40cv greater than that of the car’s predecessor, the California T. The Portofino’s lighter weight means overall the result is a significant hike in performance and a corresponding drop in emissions.
“The Portofino is the most powerful convertible car in the GT segment that Ferrari has ever produced and Naza Italia is thrilled to present this dynamic model in Malaysia. Combined with versatility, it offers a level of driving pleasure and on-board comfort unparalleled on the market. This incredibly versatile V8 GT delivers sporty elegance, extreme performance, high-tech innovation and lavish comfort in a combination that is ideally suited to our customers’ automotive desires,” said Dato Samson Anand George, Group Chief Executive Officer, Automotive Group, Naza Corporation Holdings Sdn Bhd (above, right).
The Ferrari Portofino is also an aggressively-styled car with a two-box fastback configuration – unprecedented in a coupe-convertible with a retractable hard top. This successfully adds extra sleekness to its silhouette, highlighting a sportier character.
Its vehicle dynamic characteristics have been completely revised and optimised. For the first time on this type of Ferrari model, third-generation electronic rear differential (E-Diffs) has been integrated with the F1-Trac, improving both mechanical grip and the control of the car to the limit. The Ferrari Portofino is also the first GT in this range to be fitted with EPS (Electric Power Steering). The integration of the EPS and the E-Diff3 reduced the steering ratio by 7% for even more responsive steering without a trade-off in stability at high-speed driving.
Thanks to the adoption of dual-coil technology, the magnetorheological damping system (SCM-E) has been upgraded, helping to reduce roll while contributing to improving absorption of road surface unevenness, thus making it an even more dynamic, responsive car.
The new car also focuses on on-board comfort and this is achieved by a slew of new features – an infotainment system with a 10.2” touchscreen display, a new air-conditioning system that improves passenger comfort either with the top up or down, a new steering wheel, 18-way adjustable electric-powered seats with a new backrest design that boosts legroom for rear seat passengers, and the passenger display. All passengers will highly appreciate the new wind deflector which can cut air flow inside the cabin by 30% and reduces aerodynamic noise in open-top driving.
Presenting a brilliant marriage of design, performance, and technology, as well as various advantageous features – retractable hard top, spacious trunk, ample passenger space, and two rear seats suitable for a short trip – the new model is perfect for any occasion.
Damien Woo, National Brand Head – Ferrari of Naza Italia Sdn Bhd, Dato’ Samson Anand George, Group Chief Executive Officer, Automotive Group, Naza Corporation Holdings Sdn Bhd and Marco Sambaldi, Head of Sales, Ferrari Far and Middle East Hub
Ferrari’s much-awaited Portofino is being introduced at the base price of RM948,000.00 (excluding duty and customization options). Technical specifications appended after the gallery. Here’s a walk-around video from our friend Bobby Ang @ EVO/Aurizn:
Ferrari Portofino Malaysia Launch Photo Gallery…
Ferrari Portofino – Technical Specifications
Engine
Type V8 – 90° turbo
Total displacement 3855 cc
Bore and stroke 86.5 mm x 82 mm
Max. power output * 441 kW (600 cv) at 7500 rpm
Maximum torque * 760 Nm between 3000 and 5250 rpm
Max. engine speed 7500 rpm
Compression ratio 9.45:1
Weight and dimensions
Length 4586 mm
Width 1938 mm
Height 1318 mm
Wheelbase 2670 mm
Front track 1633 mm
Rear track 1635 mm
Kerb weight** 1664 kg
Dry weight** 1545 kg
Weight distribution 46-54% front/rear
Boot capacity 292 l
Fuel tank capacity 80 l
Tyres
Front 245/35 ZR20; 8J x 20”
Rear 285/35 ZR20; 10J x 20”
Carbon-ceramic brakes
Front 390 mm x 34 mm
Rear 360 mm x 32 mm
Transmission and gearbox F1 dual-clutch transmission, 7-speed
Electronic controls ESP, ESC, with F1-Trac, E-Diff 3, SCM-E with twin solenoid
Performance
Maximum speed >320 km/h
0-100 km/h 3.5 sec
0-200 km/h 10.8 sec
100-0 km/h 34 m
Fuel consumption CO2emissions***
Fuel consumption 10.7 l/100 km
Emissions 245g CO2/km
* In 7th gear
** With specific optional extras
*** Combined cycle. In homologation phase. ECE+EUDC with standard HELE configuration
It’s here! Naza Italia, the official importer and distributor of the iconic Ferrari brand in Malaysia has just launched the all-new Ferrari Portofino (link) at Bukit Kiara Equestrian & Country Resort! And yes, it’s a stunner!
With a price tag just shy of a million ringgit (before taxes), the Portofino boasts 600bhp and a whopping 760Nm of torque from its turbocharged 3,855cc V8 engine, the Portofino is able to #dropthetop in a mere 14 seconds, and sprint from 0 to 100kmh in just 3.5sec.
As mentioned, in “just shy of a million”, we mean the new Ferrari Portofino retails for RM948,000 (base price), before taxes. Pictures don’t do it justice, so check out the official video below!
Ferrari Portofino Photo Gallery (photos by Beng Lim, EVO/Aurizn.com)
With Hari Raya Aidilfitri just a month away, the Naza Group is offering great savings and promotions at its biggest Naza Gaya Raya Autofair 2018, exclusive for customers of Naza Automall, the biggest vehicle-showroom in Malaysia.
From now until 30th June 2018, the Naza Gaya Raya Autofair 2018 is offering a massive line-up of 4-wheel and 2-wheel automotive brands with amazing deals up for grabs, as well as cash rebates, fast-loan approval, high trade-in value, free road tax and insurance, free maintenance service, vouchers, free gifts and free monthly instalments*.
Packages are available for the 14 brands of both used and new vehicles displayed in Malaysia’s largest motor showroom during the two-month campaign. Brands include Maserati, Brabus, Kia, Peugeot, Chevrolet, Ducati, Vespa and Indian Motorcycles among others. Customers can also enjoy discounts of up to 15% for both new and used luxury car brands beyond the Naza Group’s automotive brands portfolio such as the Toyota Vellfire, Toyota Alphard and Toyota Harrier.
“With Hari Raya Aidilfitri just around the corner, customers are invited to bring their family and friends to Naza Automall and check out our festive offers at the Naza Gaya Raya Autofair 2018. With a variety of automotive brands there is surely something for everyone. From brand new to quality imported preowned cars and bikes, we assure you the best deals in town, all under one roof” said Dato’ Samson Anand George, Group CEO, Automotive Group, Naza Corporation Holdings (below).
Besides the fantastic savings and fast-delivery, Naza Automall customers who purchase their dream car or bike during the Naza Gaya Raya Autofair 2018 will stand a chance to win a full-expense paid 4 days 3 nights trip to catch the 2018 FIFA World Cup semi-finals live in Moscow. Head over to the Naza Automall to find out more on how to participate and win.
Additionally, in conjunction with Mothers’ Day, Naza Automall customers are also entitled to a RM500 BLVD fine dinning voucher with purchase of any 4-wheel vehicle during the Mothers’ Day weekend (12th – 13th May 2018).
The Naza Gaya Raya Autofair 2018 also features exclusive promotions for other businesses under the Naza Group. Naza TTDI, the group’s property arm will be offering special packages for residential property purchases which include discounts, rebates, ID vouchers, progressive interest, and free legal fees for SPA and loan agreement.
Naza College of Technology and Business is also offering merit scholarships and a RM1,000 registration and resource fee waiver for students who sign up for an education course with the college at the Naza Gaya Raya Autofair 2018. Students who register during the campaign period at the Naza Automall will also be given the opportunity for a fully-sponsored SKM (Sijil Kemahiran Malaysia) program at Naza Academy in Gurun, Kedah.
Other fun activities during the Naza Gaya Raya Autofair 2018 include a Kid’s Corner for games, duit raya giveaways, and food trucks stationed at the venue only on weekends. Visit the Naza Gaya Raya Autofair 2018 at Naza Automall, to check out what Naza has in store and join in on the fun!
Located in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, along the Federal Highway, the Naza Automall is open from 9am to 6pm on weekdays and from 10am to 7pm on weekends.
*Promotions are subjected to individual automotive brands.
The 6-Hours of Spa Francorchamps on May 5 for the season opener of the FIA WEC 2018/19 Super Season saw our all-Malaysian team finishing the race at a remarkable P4, despite set backs. Racing under the Jackie Chan DC Racing x Jota Team, Nabil Jeffri, Weiron Tan and Jazeman Jaafar (below, right to left) were running a strong P2 in their FortuneCat#37 car until the last 65 minutes, when they pitted in for the final driver switch.
During this pit-stop, an unrelated crash occurred in Sector 1, forcing the untimely deployment of the safety car and automatically turning the pit-exit lights red. The team were very close to an almost certain podium debut, if not for the unlucky final pit in; well as they say, “that’s racing”.
However, the team’s successful climb back to a strong P4 finish scored them valuable World Championship points in the first leg of the FIA WEC 2018/19 Super Season.
Global demand for the Ford Mustang, which was introduced in Malaysia in 2016, has driven the Mustang to its third straight year as the best-selling sports coupe in the world. Global Mustang registrations in 2017 totaled 125,809 cars, according to Ford analysis of the most recent new light vehicle registration data from IHS Markit. This data – compiled from government and other sources and capturing 95 percent of global new vehicle volumes in more than 80 countries – puts Mustang ahead of all other sports coupe competitors worldwide.
“The world is falling in love with Mustang,” says Erich Merkle, Ford sales analyst. “Mustang represents the best of American design, performance and freedom, with an unmistakable personality that’s appeals – regardless of your postcode.” Speaking of postcodes, here’s what our friends at Autobuzz.my had to say about the Mustang…
Of the nearly 126,000 vehicles registered worldwide in 2017, Ford reported 81,866 of those were registered in the United States, meaning just over one-third of all Mustang registrations are occurring in export markets. Demand remains particularly strong in China, where Mustang was the best-selling sports coupe last year based on 7,125 registrations.
The most popular configuration worldwide is the Mustang GT with the 5.0-liter V8. While sports cars have traditionally skewed toward male buyers in the United States, Mustang is increasingly finding favor with women. In an environment of relatively flat sports car sales to women, Ford research shows a 10 percent gain in women buying Mustang in the last five years.
Since global exports began in 2015, and up till December 2017, Ford has sold 418,000 Mustangs around the world. Sports coupes, as defined by IHS Markit, include two-door and convertible models. Malaysians who are interested in owning this world’s best-selling coupe can call 012-3333873 for further information.
Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) has announced that from now until 30 June 2018, customers who book and register the Outlander 2.0-litre will get two new accessories – All Round Monitor and Premium Leatherette seats as part of Mitsubishi’s Special Raya Promo! That’s not all, both the Outlander 2.0-litre and Outlander 2.4-litre will come with a RM4,000 Raya bonus respectively. The Outlander 2.0-litre is priced at RM139,988.00 while the Outlander 2.4-litre is priced at RM154,988.00.
Additionally, customers who book and register a new Mitsubishi Triton will enjoy Raya bonus worth up to RM12,000! Raya 2018 promotions for all Triton variants are as follows*:
No
Model/Variant
OTR Price without insurance GST inclusive (RM) in Peninsular Malaysia
Raya Bonus (RM)
Warranty
1
Triton Athlete
126,990.00
4,000
All Triton variants except Triton Quest: Five years warranty or 200,000km
Triton Quest: Five years warranty or 100,000km
2
Triton VGT Adventure X
126,990.00
4,000
3
Triton VGT AT Premium
116,300.00
12,000
4
Triton VGT AT GL
103,800.00
4,000
5
Triton VGT MT
107,600.00
4,000
6
Triton MT
93,920.00
8,000
7
Triton Quest
77,390.00
8,000
Last but not least, customers who choose the ASX Compact SUV 2WD or ASX Compact SUV 4WD will receive Raya bonus up worth to RM8,000 respectively. The ASX 4WD is priced at RM134,300.00 while the ASX 2WD is priced at RM119,100.00.
All Mitsubishi Outlander and ASX models come with five years warranty/unlimited mileage.
*Prices are quoted on-the-road without insurance, GST inclusive for private registration in Peninsular Malaysia (not applicable in duty free zones). Terms and Conditions Apply.
When all you don’t like about a bike are its awkwardly long-in-stalk mirrors, you just know you’re in a heap of trouble… and boy was I ever. You see, not too long ago I owned a Kawasaki Zephyr 750 (below), and it was one of the best bikes I’d ever owned up till that point in time…
Surprisingly though, Kawasaki themselves seem to have forgotten about the Zephyr, (then) available in both 750cc and 1100cc guise, the latter being one of the first modern production bikes to feature twin-spark technology – eight plugs in all, two per cylinder. Instead they harked all the way back to the 70’s when the Z1 (below) first made its debut…
Fond memories of my Zephyr came rushing back as the launch and subsequent media test ride of the Z900RS ensued, and while I’ve never owned a Z1, I can honestly say, the Z900RS is most definitely the spiritual successor to the Zephyr. It made me feel 18 again… here’s the official video from Kawasaki.
Here’s the thing, the idea of a ‘modern retro’ like this Z900RS is nothing new, just about every bike-maker out there has at least one of these models that harks back to a bygone age of motorcycling, and while every internal component may be new and improved, design and styling wise, they’re supposed to remind everyone of what’s fondly remembered as the golden-age of motorcycling. And that’s EXACTLY what the Z900RS does. It’ll make you wanna watch “On Any Sunday” all over again. You can’t call yourself a biker if you’ve never heard of that classic docu-movie…
My initial ride impression can be found here, but recently I managed to get the bike all to myself for a few blissful days, and having put an additional 250+km on its odometer, my initial impression of the bike has definitely changed; I like it even more now.
Okay, well, you already know how I feel about those mirrors, and to be honest, I would opt for the ‘high-seat’ option (apparently available in Europe) since that one may have a bit more much-needed padding, especially for long distance rides. Speaking of which, if the latter is your cuppa tea, the Z900RS will not let you down in that department either.
Power wise, granted, on paper it may only boast 111Ps & 98.5Nm of torque, but with 948cc (which begs the question why they didn’t just badge it a Z950RS) dual-overhead cams, 16-valves and a 10,000rpm redline, the Z900RS is by no means a slouch. It may have the same engine as its sibling the Z900, but this RS (Retro Sport) has been re-tuned to offer a lot more low-end torque.
So ferocious is this low-end torque, that during the initial convoy media ride, the Z900RS was able to keep up with a Kawasaki GTR1400 during hard acceleration from a standstill. This didn’t just surprise me, but the ride Marshal on the GTR1400 was left wide-eyed as well. It’s a very short first gear for instant acceleration, eventually ending with a very tall sixth gear for cruising.
A word of caution though, the Z900RS’s throttle is incredibly sensitive. Just a twitch sends the revs into the upper ends of the counter, and thus getting used to this instant power delivery at the end of a hair-trigger is a must. Some will find filtering in traffic a bit dicey because of this. Let’s put it this way, if you’re filtering around traffic and suddenly have to sneeze, come to a complete stop first before letting it rip. Trust me on this, lest ending up a boot- or hood-ornament was your ride-objective that day.
In terms of specs and safety, the Z900RS comes standard with ABS, Kawasaki’s famed 3-mode KTRC traction-control system, 41mm inverted front forks, slipper clutch, and Kawasaki’s first fully-tuned exhaust note, which ‘audibly’ takes you back to the aforementioned golden-age of biking, if its looks weren’t enough to do that in the first place. (For the FULL specifications and features download this: 2018-Z900RS)
I can’t remember a recent time where I had so much fun on a test bike, really. The Z900RS is pretty-much the perfect all-rounder bike in my honest opinion, and being a modern retro is just a bonus. For the duration I had it, I was always thinking of places I’d love to ride this bike to if I had more time with it, and that’s how you know if a bike is going to be a genuine pleasure to own; when it inspires you to go riding just for the hell of it.
Well as they say, all good things must come to an end, and with that, here are my final parting words upon returning the Z900RS to KMSB… I’m already missing this bike… a lot! Anyone have RM69,900 just lying around not doing anything? – Chris Wee.
STOP THE PRESS! Check out the Kawasaki Z900RS Cafe Racer Conversion!
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia, together with its newest dealer partner, Auto Commerz Sdn Bhd, are further enhancing customer services with the unveiling of the interim Mercedes-Benz Auto Commerz 2S Service Centre located in Setapak. Complementing the interim Mercedes-Benz Auto Commerz Autohaus launched in September 2017, the new service centre kicks Auto Commerz’s strategy into high gear, to deliver a unique and individualised customer experience for Mercedes-Benz customers.
“On behalf of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia, I congratulate our ninth dealer group, Auto Commerz, on the launch of their new service centre. We believe the partnership we share with Auto Commerz reflects our common passion and care for our customers and their needs. With the widest premium automotive dealer coverage in Malaysia, we are focused on ensuring that the quality of service offered throughout the customer journey embodies the Best Customer Experience,” said Mercedes-Benz Malaysia President and CEO, Dr Claus Weidner (below, left).
The Mercedes-Benz Auto Commerz 2S Service Centre, located just 950m away from the Mercedes-Benz Auto Commerz Autohaus in Setapak, has a land area of 13,866 sq ft and built-up area of 9,200 sq ft. Built to serve the expanding Mercedes-Benz customer base, the service centre is equipped with state-of-the art Mercedes Benz approved diagnostic tools and equipment, and operated by professionally trained Mercedes Benz Certified Service Specialists.
“As the latest dealer group to join the Mercedes-Benz network in Malaysia, we are proud to add customer services to our repertoire. With this update, we now deliver a complete end-to-end customer experience and we welcome all Mercedes-Benz owners to our new service centre for the best aftersales care that the Auto Commerz team can offer,” said Auto Commerz Dealer Principal, Eric Khoo.
The interim Mercedes-Benz Auto Commerz 2S Service Centre sports the sleek Mercedes-Benz Presentation System II (MPS II), in line with the Three-Pointed Star’s brand identity customers have come to recognise. Its optimally functioning work bays have the capacity to service up to 200 vehicles per month.
The interim Mercedes-Benz Auto Commerz 2S Service Centre is located at No. 14, Jalan Usahawan 5, Kawasan Perusahaan PKNS, Setapak 53300 Kuala Lumpur. For more information please contact tel: 03- 4144 5500.
Mercedes-Benz Service Clinics – My Specialist. My Service.
In line with its commitment to provide superior customer services and to elevate the customer experience to greater heights, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia and select partner dealerships will be hosting exclusive Mercedes-Benz Service Clinics between May and September 2018. Dates and locations are as follows:
Date
Venue
Contact number
14th – 18th May
NZ Wheels Klang
Lot 1385, Jalan Kapar, Wisma Naza, Batu 2, Kawasan 19, 41400 Klang, Selangor
03-3342 3333
25th – 29th June
Hap Seng Star Iskandar
No. 7, Jalan SILC ¼, Taman Perindustrian SILC, 79200 Iskandar Puteri, Johor
07-509 9019
3rd – 7th September
Auto Commerz
No. 14, Jalan Usahawan 5, Kawasan Perusahaan PKNS, Setapak 53300 Kuala Lumpur
03-4144 5500
The service clinics cater to Mercedes-Benz cars, aged 48 months old and over. Customers who wish to have their vehicles undergo a full safety check conducted by a Mercedes-Benz Service Expert from Daimler, popularly known as a ‘Flying Doctor’, are urged to book their appointments in advance to secure their slot. The initiative allows customers a first-hand look at the comprehensive expertise and service that go into maintaining masterpieces bearing the Three-Pointed Star.
“Our customers are always at the centre of our activities. This is why we go to great lengths to ensure our customers enjoy the Best Customer Experience in every encounter with the Mercedes-Benz brand along the customer journey,”Mercedes-Benz Malaysia, President and CEO, Dr Claus Weidner.
During the Mercedes-Benz Service Clinics, Mercedes-Benz cars are given a full safety check conducted by the ‘Flying Doctor’. Each car is then followed up by assigned teams for the relevant service or repairs recommended.
“A Mercedes-Benz car is a masterpiece that is maintained by craftsmen with an intricate understanding of vehicles bearing the Three-pointed Star. Being passioante fans of the brand, we understand our customers carry much sentimental value with their Mercedes-Benz cars. The Mercedes-Benz Service Clinics demonstrate the strong support our dealer network receives from Mercedes-Benz Service Experts from Daimler in order to care for our customers’ prized Mercerdes-Benz cars,” added Mercedes-Benz Malaysia, Vice President, Customer Services MBC, Passenger Cars, Heinrich Schromm.
In addition to providing valuable peace of mind to customers, the service clinics also present opportunities for talent development. As a result of assisting the ‘Flying Doctor’ during the service clinics, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s local customer services teams gain valuable experience and knowledge which exemplifies the Mercedes-Benz philosophy of ‘lifelong learning’.
To-date, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has 33 dedicated dealerships nationwide delivering the Best Products and the Best Customer Experience throughout customers’ entire journey, maintaining Mercedes-Benz Malaysia as the largest premium automotive dealer network in the country.
In brief…
Newest Mercedes-Benz authorised dealer partner, Auto Commerz, unveils 9,200 sq ft 2S service centre in Setapak, demonstrating its commitment to bring the customer experience to greater heights, further strengthening Mercedes-Benz’ retail brand presence in Malaysia.
Auto Commerz realises its expansion plan as a Mercedes-Benz dealer while Mercedes-Benz Malaysia increases its overall presence for superior customer service.
With an investment of RM2 million, the service centre comes fully equipped with state-of-the art Mercedes Benz approved diagnostic tools and equipment, and staffed by professionally trained Mercedes Benz Certified Service Specialists.
