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Volkswagen to Unveil Golf GTI Clubsport at GTI Weekend

This weekend marks the start of a highly anticipated event for automotive enthusiasts as Volkswagen prepares to unveil the new Golf GTI Clubsport. Scheduled for the end of this month, this debut will take place in front of thousands of visitors at the ‘Ring Boulevard.’

The enhanced Golf GTI Clubsport is touted as the most powerful Golf with front-wheel drive, featuring a completely redesigned front end and revamped standard LED Plus headlights. Additionally, for the first time, the Volkswagen logo on the front will be illuminated.

The new model also boasts a large rear roof spoiler for maximum downforce and updated LED tail light clusters. The 19-inch Queenstown alloy wheels, reminiscent of the classic Detroit wheel from the fifth-generation Golf GTI, are a notable addition. Alternatively, buyers can opt for the 19-inch Warmenau forged wheels, which weigh only eight kilograms each, reducing unsprung mass and optimising performance.

Inside, the Golf GTI Clubsport is equipped with a newly developed multifunction leather sports steering wheel and an intuitive infotainment system designed to keep the driver focused on the road. The vehicle also features a new voice assistant, IDA, integrated with ChatGPT. Performance-wise, the turbocharged engine’s power and torque are managed by an electronically controlled front differential lock, with the optional DCC adaptive chassis control available for enhanced driving dynamics. The Special driving profile tailors the car’s systems to the Nürburgring Nordschleife’s unique characteristics, ensuring maximum performance on this iconic track.

The Golf GTI Clubsport 24h, used by Max Kruse Racing in the 24-hour race, showcases the potential of the new model. Built on the production GTI platform by Volkswagen Motorsport, the race car is powered by a 348PS 2.0-litre turbocharged engine using bioethanol fuel E20, developed by Shell. This fuel, made with 40% renewable components, significantly reduces CO2 emissions compared to traditional bioethanol fuels.

With a top speed of 270km/h and a weight-to-power ratio of 3.36 kg/PS, the Golf GTI Clubsport 24h delivers outstanding performance. The turbocharged engine generates 450Nm of torque, and the efficient E20 fuel ensures excellent power output. The driver lineup includes experienced racers like Benny Leuchter and Johan Kristoffersson, both with notable achievements at the Nürburgring.

The GTI Weekend will also feature a nostalgic element, with three first-generation classic Golf GTIs participating in the ADAC 24h Classic at the Eifel track. These cars, from the KWL Motorsport team celebrating its 45th anniversary, include a 1981 Golf GTI 16S Oettinger, a 1978 Golf GTI Kamei, and a 1980 Golf GTI with the ’50 years of Golf’ logo, all adding to the excitement and historic significance of the event.

Malaysian Automotive Market Faces Slowdown After Promising Start in 2024

Despite a robust beginning to the year, experts are anticipating a slowdown in the Malaysian automotive market’s Total Industry Volume (TIV) in the months ahead. The surge in consumer demand and festive season purchases that fuelled the industry’s momentum in the first four months of the year is expected to wane as 2024 progresses.

In 2023, Malaysia witnessed a record-high TIV of nearly 800,000 units, setting a benchmark for the industry. The positive trend continued into 2024, with the TIV for the first four months (4M24) growing by 8% to reach 260,236 units, compared to 240,417 units in the same period in 2023, as reported by The Star.

Angeline Chin, an analyst at TA Research, attributes the strong performance in April to the traditional spike in sales during the Hari Raya festive season. However, she anticipates a gradual slowdown in sales moving forward, with consumers adopting a cautious stance, particularly regarding electric vehicles (EVs).

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WTCA Unveils GAC AION Y Plus Electric Crossover – 204PS, 490km NEDC Driving Range

WTCA, a subsidiary of Warisan TC Holdings Bhd and the exclusive distributor of GAC AION electric vehicles (EVs) in Malaysia, has officially introduced the 2024 GAC AION Y Plus all-electric crossover model to the Malaysian market. The unveiling took place during the Press Day of the Malaysia Autoshow 2024, organised by the Malaysia Automotive Robotics & loT Institute (MARii) at MAEPS, Serdang.

Available in ‘Elite’ and ‘Premium’ variants, the GAC AION Y Plus marks WTCA’s debut in the EV segment with accessible price tags of RM119,800.00 (Elite) and RM135,800.00 (Premium). Malaysian consumers can choose from seven vibrant exterior colour options and five interior colour choices, providing a total of 35 combinations to suit individual preferences.

Both the Elite and Premium variants share the same front-mounted e-motor rated at 204PS and 225NM that drive the front wheels. This setup grants the GAC AION Y Plus with respectably zippy performance as demonstrated by its 0-100km/h acceleration time of 8.5 seconds. Crucially, the e-motor is also endowed with versatility thanks to the offer of up to four selectable driving modes, including an ‘i-Pedal’ single-pedal driving mode.

For its exterior design, the GAC AION Y Plus merges both trendy SUV elements with a dash of high-tech intelligence. Key design touches include Angel Wing LED headlights, Skyline through-type LED taillights, powered stow-away door handles, a panoramic sunroof present across both variants, as well as 17-inch (Elite) and 18-inch (Premium) alloy wheels design.

Underpinning the AEP 2.0 dedicated EV platform, said construct also houses GAC’s innovative 63.2 kWh Magazine Battery 2.0. With each full charge, this lithium iron phosphate (LFP) type battery is capable at delivering up to 490km (NEDC) of driving range. As for charging, the both 6.6 KW AC (Type 2) and up to 80 kW DC fast-charging (CCS2) inputs are accepted.

The GAC AION Y Plus presents a spacious cabin packed with premium amenities and features tailored to diverse urban lifestyles. Its six-way power-adjustable driver seat ensures comfort, while the 10.25-inch digital instrumentation offers essential vehicle information at a glance. Keyless entry adds convenience, complemented by automatic climate control with dedicated rear vents and a built-in PM2.5 air filter for a pleasant interior environment.

Entertainment and connectivity are handled by a 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, boasting Apple CarPlay functionality. The Premium variant elevates the experience with driver seat ventilation, a power-adjustable front passenger seat, and a wireless smartphone charging pad. Ambient lighting with music mode enhances the cabin’s ambiance, while split-folding rear seats expand cargo space up to 1,200 litres.

Safety features include six airbags, ABS, VDC, HHC, 360-degree View Monitor, and TPMS, standard across both variants. The Premium variant further enhances safety with Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capabilities, including ACC with Stop & Go function, FCW, AEB, LDW with LKA, and TJA.

The firm spent the last four months establishing its network of 21 new showrooms and service centres nationwide, and more are set to become operational within this year.

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Introduces Four New EQE Variants – SUVs and Sedans

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has expanded its lineup with the launch of four new EQE variants, alongside the introduction of the Star Elegance lifestyle retail concept at Hap Seng Star Bukit Tinggi. The EQE sedan offers the essential functions of the EQS in a slightly more compact format, featuring a sporty ‘purpose design’ with characteristic elements of Mercedes-Benz EQ.

This includes one-bow lines and a cab-forward design that emphasises sensual purity with generously modelled surfaces, reduced joints, and seamless transitions. The vehicle has short overhangs, a short front end, and a dynamic rear with a sharp spoiler. The battery provides a usable energy content of 90.56 kWh, offering a range of up to 682 km according to WLTP.

The base variant, the Mercedes-Benz EQE 350+ Electric Art Line, boasts an Electric Art exterior and interior, 19-inch 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels, ARTICO man-made leather black/space grey upholstery, and an Advanced Sound System. It includes an AC onboard charging system capable of charging up to 22 kW. Other features include DIGITAL LIGHT, a Driving Assistance Package, laser-cut backlit trim with Mercedes-Benz pattern, active ambient lighting, KEYLESS-GO Comfort Package, and a Parking Package with a 360° camera.

The Mercedes-Benz EQE 350+ AMG Line enhances the experience with a panoramic sunroof, a radiator grille with the Mercedes-Benz pattern, rear axle steering with up to 10° adjustment, AIRMATIC air suspension, and an electric charging socket flap. This model also includes an AC onboard charging system with up to 22 kW capacity, setting a benchmark for electric luxury business sedans in Malaysia.

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Jaecoo Previews the J6 and J7 PHEV for Malaysian Market

In a previous article, we mentioned that the Jaecoo J6 also known as the iCar 03 in China, is confirmed for its arrival in the Malaysian market. At the 2024 Malaysia Autoshow, Jaecoo revealed the J6. However, there was no confirmation regarding the specifications that we would be getting.

From what we know, with dimensions measuring 4,406mm in length, 1,910mm in width, and 1,715mm in height, it offers a spacious interior and a relatively long wheelbase of 2,715mm. While slightly shorter than its counterpart, the J7, the J6 boasts a wider and taller stance.

In China, it comes with a choice of rear or all-wheel drive electric motor configurations. The dual motor version delivers 279PS and accelerates from 0-100km/h in 6.5 seconds, with a limited top speed of 150km/h. It is equipped with a 69.8-kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery supplied by CATL, offering a range of up to 501km according to the CLTC standard.

Adding on to the off-roading domination route, Jaecoo revealed the J7 PHEV. The Jaecoo J7 PHEV features a design that closely mirrors the non-hybrid J7, but it distinguishes itself with more premium and sporty accents.

This plug-in hybrid vehicle is equipped with a 1.5-litre TGDi petrol engine and a front-mounted single electric motor, together generating a total output of 347hp and 525 Nm of torque. This powertrain is coupled with a Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT), which is designed to optimise efficiency and performance.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Jaecoo J7 PHEV boasts a claimed consumption rate of 20.4 km/l. It can travel up to 88km on electric power alone, making it suitable for daily commutes without relying on petrol. Although details about the DC fast charging rate and speeds have not been disclosed, the vehicle does support this feature. Additionally, it includes a vehicle-to-load (V2L) function, which allows users to power external appliances directly from the vehicle.

Pricing and further details about its market availability are expected to be announced soon, along with specific information on its charging capabilities.

Jaecoo J6

Jaecoo J7 PHEV

Neta X Battery-Electric SUV Officially Launched in Malaysia – Lifetime Warranty For Early Birds

The Neta X battery-electric SUV has officially been launched in Malaysia, offering four variants: the 400 Comfort, 400 Luxury, 500 Comfort, and 500 Luxury. The pricing for these variants ranges from RM119,900 to RM139,900, with exact prices to be announced soon.

The Neta X is powered by a single front-mounted motor, delivering 163PS and 210Nm of torque. This setup allows the SUV to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in under 9.5 seconds and achieve a top speed of over 150km/h. The SUV offers two battery options: a 52.49 kWh battery for the 400 variants, providing a range of 401km, and a 64.14 kWh battery for the 500 variants, offering a range of over 480km. Charging times for the batteries are approximately 9 hours for the 52.49 kWh battery and 11 hours for the 64.14 kWh battery using AC charging, while DC fast charging from 30% to 80% takes about 30 minutes.

The Neta X features MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link layout in the rear for suspension. It has 18-inch alloy wheels with 225/60R18 tyres. The SUV offers multiple driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Sport, and a one-pedal driving mode, and is equipped with an Auto Hold function for added convenience.

Externally, the Neta X is equipped with LED headlamps, tail lamps, DRLs, a rear fog lamp, and an LED high-mount brake lamp. It also features a panoramic sunroof, roof rack, and heated, auto-folding mirrors with turn signals. Rain-sensing wipers add to the vehicle’s convenience.

Inside, it is illuminated by LED reading lights and a luggage compartment light. The centrepiece of the interior is a 15.6-inch central touchscreen that supports Apple CarPlay, real-time navigation with location services, OTA software updates, voice control, online music playback, and Bluetooth connectivity. It also boasts an eight-speaker sound system for a premium audio experience.

The Neta X is well-equipped in terms of safety and driver assistance. The Comfort variants come with regular cruise control, while the Luxury variants include additional features such as forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking (AEB), lane departure warning, lane change assist with blind spot detection, door opening warning, rear cross traffic alert, full-speed adaptive cruise control (ACC), lane keep assist, traffic jam assist, intelligent cruise assist, traffic sign recognition, high beam assist, and an emergency lane keeping system.

Neta X is available in five exterior colours: Pearl White, Sky Grey, Jet Black, Glacier Blue, and Amber Brown. Interior upholstery options include brown or black.

In addition, customers who reserve a Neta V will receive a lifetime warranty on the motor, battery, and motor control unit (MCU), awards through the Neta Loyalty Programme worth up to RM24,300, and a year of complimentary charging at any ChargEV station.