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The Last Run: Toyota GR Supra and BMW Z4 Production to Stop in 2026

The recent announcement that production of the iconic Toyota GR Supra and BMW Z4 will end in 2026 marks the conclusion of a significant chapter in the history of these beloved sports cars. Manufactured by Magna Steyr in Austria, both models have captivated automotive enthusiasts worldwide. However, broader production challenges and strategic shifts at Magna Steyr, including a workforce reduction of 500 employees at their Graz facility, have influenced this decision.

Sales figures for the Toyota GR Supra in the United States have seen a notable decline, contributing to the decision to cease production. The Supra sold 6,830 units in 2021, but this number dropped to 4,952 units in 2022, and further to 2,652 units last year. The trend appears to be continuing in 2024, with only 484 units sold in the first quarter, indicating that sales might fall below 2,000 units by the end of the year. In contrast, the Toyota GR86 has shown stronger performance, selling 2,041 units in the first quarter alone, with 1,364 units sold in March.

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Proton Announces 5-Star After Sales Rating Initiative

Proton has initiated a new 5-Star Rating program aimed at elevating after-sales service across its nationwide outlets. This initiative recognises Proton dealers who excel in after-sales service, building on the company’s Proton Operational Excellence (POE) initiative that began on March 6, 2023.

The new rating system awards dealers based on their POE score and service quality, which is evaluated in two main categories: Speed and Compliance. These categories are measured across six focus areas, with the ultimate goal of effectively managing customer concerns and delivering an exceptional customer experience.

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Bentley Asia Pacific Retires the V8 From the Continental GT, GTC and Flying Spur

Bentley Motors Asia Pacific has announced the retirement of its current-generation 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine from the Continental GT, Continental GTC, and Flying Spur model lines. This move affects regions including the UK, Europe, MEA, Southeast Asia, Taiwan, and Australasia. Although this engine will continue to be used in the Bentayga family, its phase-out in the Continental and Flying Spur models aligns with Bentley’s Beyond100 strategy, which aims for all model lines to offer a hybrid variant by 2024. This strategic shift has already begun with the introduction of hybrid models for the Bentayga and Flying Spur, which have exceeded demand expectations.

The V8 engine has been a significant part of Bentley’s legacy, first appearing in the S2 model in 1959 with an output of 180bhp. The current-generation V8, introduced in 2012, has significantly evolved, producing three times the power of its predecessor with two-thirds of the engine capacity. More than 53,000 V8-powered Continental GT, GTC, and Flying Spur models have been hand-crafted at Bentley’s Dream Factory in Crewe, England, since its introduction.

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Tour Buses and Vans Should not be Excluded from the Diesel Subsidy Program

MCA Youth has called on the government to reconsider its decision to exclude tour bus and van operators from the diesel subsidy aid program, highlighting significant potential repercussions for Malaysia’s tourism industry.

According to FMT, Deputy Chief Chong Yew Chuan expressed concerns that without these subsidies, the cost of operating tour buses and vans will rise, making Malaysia less competitive as a tourist destination. This, according to Chong, threatens the livelihood of tourism operators and could have broader negative implications for the country’s economic growth.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim recently announced that the Cabinet had approved targeted diesel subsidies for Peninsular Malaysia. These subsidies will benefit 10 types of public transport vehicles and 23 types of goods transport vehicles. However, the new diesel subsidy aid program, introduced by the finance ministry, does not extend to diesel motorcycles, caravans, motorhomes, and, notably, tour vans and buses. Eligible recipients under this program will receive RM200 monthly.

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Limited Edition Ford Ranger StormTrak Launched For RM181,888 – Only 200 Units Available

Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC), the sole distributor for Ford in Malaysia, today unveiled the new Limited-Edition Ford Ranger StormTrak, strengthening its position in the pickup truck segment in Malaysia. In tandem with the new model launch, SDAC launched its online booking via shop.sdacford.com.my, allowing customers to book any of its Ranger and Everest models online with the Ranger StormTrak being exclusively available online, offering only 200 units.

A fusion of rugged capability, premium features and unparalleled technologies, the Ranger StormTrak is an upgrade to the well-loved Ranger WildTrak, catering to the multifaceted lifestyle of bold adventure seekers.

The Limited-Edition Ford Ranger StormTrak boasts a unique StormTrak Scheme for both its exterior and interior. Its features include 20-inch wheels with Asphalt Black matte paint and Race Red wheel inserts, a distinctive Storm Trak Scheme grille and bumper as well as new emblems and livery that signify its limited-edition status.

Inside, the attractive Storm Trak Scheme continues with a dashboard accented with Race Red stitching, seats featuring Storm Trak Logo, Race Red stitching and Miko suede inserts, elevating a premium and stylish cabin experience.

For enhanced functionality, the Limited-Edition Ford Ranger Storm Trak introduces several first-in-class features tailored for the adventurous spirit. These include Auxiliary Lamps to illuminate dark off-road trails, Zone Lighting to brighten the vehicle’s surroundings and cargo lights for added convenience when loading and unloading.

The innovation continues with the Ranger StormTrak featuring the innovative Flexible Rack System and Swing-in-Place Roof Rails, allowing for one-handed adjustment of the sports bar and supporting versatile loads up to 80 kilograms (dynamic) and 250 kilograms (static), ideal and practical for both adventure and work needs.

It also incorporates advanced technologies like the e-Shifter with a 10-speed automatic transmission, Auto Brake Hold and Active Park Assist 2.0, features found in the Ranger Raptor and Everest Titanium.

With strong emphasis on customer experience in both showroom and digital channels, SDAC provides customers with even more convenience through online booking via its website. With this upgraded platform, customers nationwide can browse and book for their desired Ranger or Everest. Customers who book a Ranger StormTrak will be entitled to the Ranger Storm Trak Windbreaker jacket, redeemable upon vehicle delivery, providing owners with a stylish jacket to go with the stylish Ranger Storm Trak.

Equipped with a 2.0L Bi-Turbo engine, the Limited-Edition Ford Ranger Storm Trak is priced from RM181,888.00 (on-the-road without insurance) in Peninsular Malaysia, RM188,288.00 (on-the-road without insurance) in Sabah, RM188,288.00 (on-the-road without insurance) in Sarawak. It is available in three exterior colors: Arctic White, Meteor Grey and Absolute Black.

Secure the Limited-Edition Ford Ranger StormTrak exclusively online at https://shop.sdacford.com.my/vehicle/ and enjoy a special booking gift – a complimentary Limited Edition Ford Ranger windbreaker upon vehicle delivery. Visit www.sdacford.com.my or follow.

Updated BMW M3 Competition and M3 Touring Unveiled – 523hp, 650Nm of Torque

BMW has unveiled the updated M3 Competition, featuring a slight power increase, refined visual enhancements, and a series of interior upgrades. Maintaining the familiar 3.0-litre twin-turbo six-cylinder engine, the new BMW M3 and BMW M3 Touring now benefit from a 20bhp boost due to optimised digital engine control. This brings the total output to 523bhp, while peak torque remains steady at 650Nm. BMW claims this power enhancement results in a more intense and sustained power delivery, enhancing the overall performance experience.

The power boost translates to a 0.4-second reduction in the M3 Competition saloon’s 0-100km/h acceleration time, now clocking in at 3.5 seconds. The M3 Touring follows closely, just one-tenth slower. The four-door M3 Competition can achieve 0-200km/h in 11.8 seconds, which is half a second faster than its predecessor. The top speed is electronically limited to 250km/h, but this can be increased to 290km/h (280km/h for the Touring) with the optional M Driver’s Package.

Visually, the M3 has been upgraded with new LED headlights featuring arrow-shaped daytime running lights, similar to those on the recently introduced M4 Competition. The adaptive LED headlights with matrix technology include blue inlays, adding a distinctive touch.

The M3 Competition now comes with forged alloy wheels in axle-specific sizes (19-inch front and 20-inch rear). The standard Jetblack design can be swapped for a set of M light-alloy wheels in silver, a new option for customers. Additionally, the M3 badge on the boot lid now features a silver-colored surround.

Inside, the M3 adopts BMW’s latest Operating System 8.5 for its infotainment system, aligning with updates seen in the standard 3 Series. The new interior includes a redesigned three-spoke M steering wheel with multifunction buttons and a red 12 o’clock marker. An Alcantara-trimmed version of this wheel is available for the first time.

For those seeking further customisation, BMW offers an M Carbon exterior package. This package includes new inlays for the front air intakes, a revised diffuser, a boot lid spoiler, and carbon fibre mirror caps. The M Race Track package, designed for performance enthusiasts, features ceramic brakes and carbon bucket seats, reducing the car’s weight by 25kg compared to the base model.

The updates to the BMW M3 Competition enhance its performance, style, and technology, ensuring it remains a standout choice in the high-performance sedan segment.