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Audi Plans to Elevate Brand with Ultra-Luxury A8 and SUV Successors

Audi is charting a course further upmarket, positioning itself as an even more prestigious brand with upscale replacements for its flagship models, including the A8 limousine and the Q7 and Q8 SUVs. The German automaker is laying the groundwork for a more luxurious and exclusive brand perception, pushing into higher price segments while maintaining its premium identity.

The Grandsphere concept, unveiled in 2021, hinted at a potential future iteration of the A8 that would elevate it into true luxury territory. Similarly, the 2022 Urbansphere concept suggested that Audi may introduce an even larger, more opulent SUV. Now, the Volkswagen-owned brand is refining its strategy to further enhance its desirability and status.

Audi UK’s new managing director, Jose Miguel Aparicio, emphasised this shift in an interview with Auto Express, stating that the company prioritises prestige and exclusivity over sheer volume. “We are making a step upwards in terms of premiums, increasing the prestige, desirability, and perception of the brand, and more interested in the quality of business than the quantity,” he said.

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British Man Stranded in Malaysia Over RM7 Parking Dispute

A British electrician claims he has been stranded in Malaysia for over two months after his passport was confiscated following a dispute over a RM7 parking fee.

According to a report by the UK newspaper Daily Mail, 47-year-old Ahmed Hadi from London was arrested just three days after arriving in Malaysia with his wife and two daughters on December 4. His ordeal began in Batu Ferringhi, Penang, when a parking payment machine failed to accept either of his credit cards as he attempted to exit the facility with his family.

Hadi recounted that after unsuccessfully trying to make the payment, he pressed the assistance button and engaged in a 10-minute conversation with a parking attendant. However, the issue remained unresolved. Faced with no other option, he gently lifted the plastic barrier, which he claimed collapsed with minimal force.

Two days later, police summoned him to a station, where he was interrogated for two hours regarding the broken barrier. He was subsequently arrested and jailed. The following day, he was brought to court, but the case remained unresolved as authorities sought additional time to investigate the incident.

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BMW Showcases Future Driving Dynamics with Vision Driving Experience Prototype

The BMW Group has unveiled its latest high-performance test vehicle, the BMW Vision Driving Experience, a prototype designed to push the limits of driving pleasure. While not intended for mass production, this Vision Vehicle serves as a rolling test platform for the advanced drivetrain and driving dynamics technology developed for BMW’s next-generation electric models under the Neue Klasse banner.

At the heart of this prototype is the “Heart of Joy,” an advanced control system engineered to redefine electric driving. BMW recently put the system through a rigorous endurance test at the BMW Performance Driving Center in Spartanburg, USA, where it demonstrated its full potential. As part of an exclusive preview presentation, the company provided insights into how the Heart of Joy will shape the electric driving experience in the Neue Klasse models, set to launch later this year from BMW’s Plant Debrecen in Hungary.

The Heart of Joy introduces a new dimension to BMW’s core philosophy of Sheer Driving Pleasure, complementing the Neue Klasse’s focus on electrification, digitalization, and sustainability. The small black control unit at the core of this system is set for series production, even though the Vision Vehicle itself will not enter the market.

Enhancing Driving Pleasure and Efficiency

BMW’s Head of Development, Frank Weber, highlighted the transformative impact of the Heart of Joy, stating that it elevates driving pleasure to unprecedented levels while also enhancing efficiency. The system significantly improves regenerative braking, allowing the vehicle to rely almost entirely on energy recuperation, reducing the need for conventional braking. This efficiency boost aligns with BMW’s Efficient Dynamics strategy, maximizing range and sustainability.

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Toyota Unveils Third-Generation Fuel Cell System for Commercial Applications

Toyota Motor Corporation has introduced its latest innovation in hydrogen technology with the unveiling of its third-generation fuel cell system (3rd Gen FC System). The new system represents a major step forward in Toyota’s vision for a hydrogen-powered future, with advancements in durability, efficiency, and cost reduction.

Designed specifically to meet the needs of the commercial sector, the 3rd Gen FC System offers durability on par with conventional diesel engines while delivering improved performance and efficiency. Toyota has significantly enhanced fuel efficiency and reduced costs compared to the previous generation, making the new system more viable for widespread adoption. The company plans to roll out the system primarily in Japan, Europe, North America, and China, with commercial availability expected after 2026.

Toyota has scheduled the official unveiling of the 3rd Gen FC System for February 19, 2025, at the H2 & FC EXPO in Tokyo, Japan. The event will mark the first public display of the new technology, highlighting its potential applications in various industries.

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Review: Kia Sportage – A Bold Contender in the C-SUV Segment

The Kia Sportage has come a long way since its debut in 1993. Originally designed as a compact SUV, it has evolved over the years to become a global best-seller, known for its blend of style, performance, and value. The fifth-generation NQ5 model, introduced in 2021, represents a significant leap forward in terms of design, technology, and engineering.

While Malaysia is currently receiving the pre-facelift version, the Sportage’s core strengths remain intact. Its global success is a testament to Kia’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, and the NQ5 continues this legacy with its modern features and competitive pricing.

After spending some quality time behind the wheel, we can confidently say that this SUV is a serious contender in the crowded C-segment market. With four locally assembled (CKD) variants priced between RM147,218.60 and RM186,899, the Sportage offers a compelling mix of style, performance, and technology. But how does it fare in real-world driving?

Bold and Eye-Catching

From the moment we laid eyes on the Sportage, its bold and modern design stood out. The pre-facelift version we’re getting in Malaysia may not be the latest iteration, but it still looks fresh and contemporary. The tiger-nose grille, flanked by sleek LED headlamps and DRLs, gives the front end a futuristic and aggressive stance. The base 2.0G 2WD variant comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, which are decent, but the 18-inch alloys on the higher trims add a more premium and sporty touch.

The side profile is equally impressive, with sharp character lines and a slightly raked roofline that gives the Sportage a dynamic appearance. The rear design is clean and modern, with full-LED taillights on the turbocharged variants that look particularly striking at night. Some test units were finished in Astra Blue, a vibrant shade that turned heads wherever we went. Overall, the Sportage’s exterior design strikes a great balance between sophistication and sportiness.

A Tech-Savvy and Comfortable Cabin

Sliding into the driver’s seat, we were immediately impressed by the Sportage’s well-thought-out interior. The base 2.0G 2WD variant comes with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 4.2-inch TFT-LCD instrument cluster, which are functional but feel a bit basic compared to the higher trims. However, stepping up to the 1.6T High variants transforms the cabin into a tech-lovers paradise.

The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen in the turbocharged models are the stars of the show. The crisp displays and intuitive interface make it easy to access navigation, media, and vehicle settings.

Material quality is solid across the board, with soft-touch surfaces and leatherette upholstery in the higher trims. The Harman Kardon sound system in the 1.6T AWD High variant is a standout feature, delivering rich and immersive audio quality that made my commute much more enjoyable. The cabin feels spacious and airy, with plenty of headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The 60:40 split-folding rear seats add to the practicality, making it easy to carry larger items when needed.

Smooth and Capable

The Sportage offers two engine options, and we had the chance to test both during our time with the SUV. The 2.0G variants are powered by a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre engine that delivers 154hp and 192Nm of torque. While it is not the most powerful engine in its class, it is perfectly adequate for city driving and highway cruising. The six-speed automatic transmission is smooth and predictable, though it can feel a bit sluggish when you need quick acceleration.

The 1.6T variants, on the other hand, are where the Sportage truly shines. The turbocharged 1.6-litre engine produces 177hp and 265Nm of torque, giving the SUV a much more spirited and engaging driving experience. The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) is quick to respond, and the availability of all-wheel drive in the top-tier model adds an extra layer of confidence, especially in wet or slippery conditions.

During the test drive, we took the 1.6T AWD High variant on a mix of city roads, highways, and winding country lanes. The turbocharged engine felt punchy and responsive, making overtaking and merging onto highways a breeze. The AWD system provided excellent traction, even on loose gravel roads, and the differential lock came in handy during a brief off-road excursion. The Sportage may not be a hardcore off-roader, but it is more than capable of handling light trails and rough terrain.

Comfortable and Refined

One of the first things we noticed about the Sportage is how comfortable and refined it feels on the road. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections, making it an excellent choice for daily commuting and long-distance trips. The steering is light and precise, offering good feedback without being overly heavy, which makes it easy to manoeuvre in tight spaces.

The turbocharged variants offer a more engaging driving experience. The 1.6T engine’s ample torque ensures strong acceleration, and the DCT transmission delivers quick and smooth shifts. The inclusion of drive modes (Eco, Normal, and Sport) allows you to tailor the driving dynamics to your preferences. In Sport mode, the throttle response becomes sharper, and the steering feels more weighted, adding a touch of sportiness to the driving experience.

Practical and Family-Friendly

The Sportage is a highly versatile SUV, making it a great choice for families and individuals alike. The cabin offers plenty of space for five occupants, with generous legroom and headroom in both the front and rear seats. The 60:40 split-folding rear bench seat adds to the practicality, allowing you to expand the cargo space when needed.

The powered tailgate, which is available in higher trims, made loading and unloading a breeze, while the roof rails in the AWD variant provide additional utility for carrying extra gear. The inclusion of rear air vents and dual-zone climate control ensures that all passengers stay comfortable, even on longer journeys.

Packed with Features

Safety is a key focus for the Sportage, with all variants coming equipped with six airbags, ABS, ESC, hill start assist, and a tyre pressure monitoring system. The higher trims add a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including forward collision-avoidance assist, blind-spot collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality.

During our drive, we found the ADAS features to be incredibly useful, especially on busy highways. The adaptive cruise control made long-distance driving less fatiguing, while the blind-spot collision warning and rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist provided added peace of mind when changing lanes or reversing out of parking spaces.

The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and infotainment system in the turbocharged variants provide a high-tech driving experience, while the blind-spot view monitor enhances safety by displaying a live feed of your blind spots in the instrument cluster.

A Strong Contender with a Few Quirks

After spending time with the Sportage, we came away impressed by its overall package. It’s a well-rounded SUV that offers a compelling mix of style, performance, and technology. The turbocharged variants stand out for their spirited performance and premium features. However, there are a few quirks worth noting.

The base 2.0G variants feel a bit underpowered compared to the competition, and the lack of advanced safety features in the entry-level model is a letdown. Additionally, while the digital control panel for the climate system looks sleek, it can be distracting to use while driving. These minor drawbacks aside, the Sportage is a strong contender in the C-segment SUV market.

A Smart Choice for Buyers

The fifth-generation Kia Sportage NQ5 is a well-rounded SUV that offers excellent value for money. While it may not be the newest model on the block, it still holds its own against competitors like the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5. With its bold design, comfortable interior, and impressive list of features, the Sportage is a smart choice for Malaysian buyers.

If you’re in the market for a C-segment SUV, the Sportage is definitely worth considering. Whether you’re looking for a practical family car or a stylish daily driver, the Sportage delivers on all fronts. So, will you pick the Kia Sportage over its rivals? Based on my experience, the answer might just be a resounding yes.

Specifications:

2.0-litre

Engine: 2.0 litre naturally-aspirated inline-four

Power: 154PS @ 6200rpm

Torque: 192Nm @ 4500rpm

Gearbox: Six-speed automatic transmission

Top speed: 181km/h

Price (as tested): RM157,218

We like: Comfort, space and practicality.

We don’t like: A little bit underpowered

1.6-litre

Engine: 1.6 litre turbocharged inline-four

Power: 177PS @ 5500rpm

Torque: 265Nm from 1500 to 4500rpm

Gearbox: Seven-speed dual-clutch transmission

Top speed: 201km/h

Price (as tested): RM186,899

We like: Comfort, space, practicality and power

We don’t like: The digital control panel for the climate system

Review: KIA EV9 – Bold, Beautiful & Unlike Anything Else

When thinking of an angle for this review, there was one song that kept coming to mind, the classic “anything you can do (I can do better)”. A song that was composed by Irving Berlin for the 1946 Broadway Musical – Annie Get Your Gun.

If you have never heard of it, you can click here to watch it and that should set the tone for the rest of this article.

Over the years, there have been many iterations of the song, and it was popularised in car culture nearly two decades ago in a Mercedes-Benz video advertisement. The video featuring Lewis Hamilton, Fernando Alonso and Mika Hakkinen showcased the three Formula One legends duelling against each other in a series of challenges.

Fast forward to today and the song once again comes to mind to describe the current automotive scenario, particularly the electric vehicle (EV) segment.

Trump himself would not deny that the segment is dominated by Chinese marques. And while the world argues over how the Americans, Japanese and Europeans are going to keep up, the South Koreans have been silently churning out cars that not only impress with their technology but also offer stunning designs.

The KIA EV9 you see sprawled on this page is one such stunner from South Korea. It may not look like it when seen in photos, but it is a massive car, about the size of the latest generation Range Rover. And it is quite imposing as well, with a neck cramming presence everywhere it goes since not many have seen one on our roads.

We love it, sort of.

In terms of design, it will not look out of place in a Star Wars movie. In fact, while Chinese cars and Tesla’s have started to look the same with their front and rear lightbars and gigantic infotainment systems inside, there is nothing else quite like the KIA EV9.

But you have to wonder why it has not become an instant sensation among the wealthy.

Yes, the wealthy. Because the EV9 is priced at RM370,000 for the seven-seater variant and RM375,000 for the six-seater. So, you can’t expect regular folks to be flocking to it.

It’s price is one of the few thorns on its side because when it comes to spending over a quarter million Ringgit, most Malaysians would still pick a European brand over a Korean. You know, to make a statement at the next family gathering that you have “arrived in life”, and nothing makes a statement better than a European marque.

So, this means then that the KIA EV9 sits in a very peculiar spot. It is way too expensive for the regular joe, and for those who can afford it, well they either do not want to spend that much on a KIA or would rather spend it on a luxury marque. Except for a few oddballs to whom I am grateful to for if it wasn’t for them we wouldn’t be having such cars in Malaysia.

So, what is it about the EV9 that we love?

Apologies for getting distracted, but the EV9 is a stylish machine and that’s the first thing we like about it. In fact it makes you go wow the first time you see it. It makes the cooks in a Chinese restaurant come out just to look at it. I can personally testify to that.

There’s a saying that goes, “if you don’t look back at your car after you have parked it, you bought the wrong car,” and I just could not stop staring at it though I am far from buying one.

How KIA has made seemingly straight lines and vast empty spaces look this good may be beyond most of us non-designers, but we can collectively breathe a sigh of relief that the automotive world can still churn out such good-looking cars.

Then there is the interior. KIA has again shown that they are not followers of the herd. There are no gargantuan infotainment screens inside, just one that measures in at a regular 12.3-inch and another of equal proportions for the instrument cluster.

And thankfully there are still physical controls for everything from the air-conditioning to the radio. You can even adjust the air-conditioner blowers manually, just as you always could before some brands started over engineering them.

The rear passengers get their own set of air-conditioning controls but not only that they also get their own sunroof as well.

The interior space and seats deserve their own special mention

Considering the size of the car, it should come as no surprise that interior living space is vast.

It is also comfortable for the kids and shorter adults in the third row, which positions the EV9 as a capable option for large families.

The seats themselves could put more expensive cars to shame in terms of comfort. They are so good that there’s an entire section dedicated to the seats in the EV9’s specification sheet.

The driver’s side seat gets a massage function which turns on after an hour of driving while the seat itself is adjustable in multiple ways. Both driver and passenger seat also have a feature called Premium Relaxation, this is where the seat can recline in such a way that it almost feels like you’re in a hammock.

So, what are the other thorns you may ask?

After raving about the seats, I must say that the mesh headrests for the front two seats are unbecoming for a car of this price range, like they were taken from the office chairs of KIA’s design centre.

The other thing that I am particularly concerned about are the digital side view monitors. Instead of using regular mirrors, KIA has chosen to use cameras instead. They protrude out awkwardly and look weird.

On top of that, monitoring the sides of the car can take some getting used to as well because you can never gauge the distance. It is already difficult to tell the distance with a mirror, what more a monitor. And what more, we have thousands of motorcyclists to share the road with daily and the occasional swipe with a handlebar does happen. One must wonder how much it costs to replace the camera.

But what about the powertrain?

That responsibility falls on dual motors, one for each axle, which effectively makes the EV9 an all-wheel-drive SUV.

Providing juice to the motors is a 99.8kWh battery pack and that gives the car 380hp, 700Nm of torque as well as a WLTP range of 505km. But after spending a couple of days with the EV9, we returned the car with an average energy usage of 21.4kWh, and that gave the car a real-world range of 466km.

Energy usage gets higher on the highway and that drops the range like an anchor, which is typical of EV’s. So, to sustain a decent range, driving between 90-100km/h was the only way, which is a shame.

As for charging, the EV9 supports an 800V electrical architecture which allows for ultra-fast charging. To recharge, the car can take 350kW of DC charging which lets the car hit 80% state of charge from 10% in just 24 minutes.

While that may be impressive, the EV9 is only capable of 11kW of AC charging, and that is the real stick in an otherwise great show because it will need 10 hours and 30 minutes to hit 100% from near zero.

So why do we like it so much?

While the car may not be able to go very far and in all honesty would have greatly benefited from 22kW AC charging, it is still a great car to drive.

Refinement levels are arguably at near Rolls-Royce levels at regular speeds. The car does not come with adaptive suspension which is available in some other markets, but the MacPherson struts and Multi-Links do a fantastic job nonetheless.

The fact that it does not come with the more expensive adaptive suspensions means that long term ownership may be easier on the pocket, so that may just be a good thing.

We also like its versatility as a family car, offering space and comfort for all three rows. And ensuring the car remains safe in all situations are multiple levels of technologies ranging from everything to Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist systems to Smart Cruise Control.

But the real star is of course the one thing that we have been harping about all along, its design which particularly stands out in the colour you see here, Ocean Blue.

Is it worth it?

Well, that would depend on which side of the divide you stand on. If you like nice cars and don’t mind the badge they come with then for sure the EV9 is worth it. But if you are the type that is concerned about making a statement, just keep in mind that the KIA badge has come a long way from its Spectra days.

Specifications
Motor: Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor
Power: 380hp
Torque: 700Nm
Battery: 99.8kWh Lithium-Ion
Price (As tested): RM369,668 (7-seater)

We like: Design, Refinement, Features
We don’t like: No 22kW AC charging