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BIKES: Vespa GTS Super 300 Quasar – Definitely Not For Everyone! [+Videos]

Well don’t blame me, that “not for everyone” jibe is exactly what it says on its own brochure and POS materials. Seriously, it does, see the top left corner in the photo below. During its launch a couple of months ago, I did think it a little odd to have a tagline like that for a Vespa, I mean come on, wasn’t the creation of the Vespa billed as a scooter for everyone? Apparently not.

Here’s the launch video:

It would take a week of hard riding of the new GTS Super 300 “Quasar” following its launch to realise that Naza Premira were absolutely spot-on when it came to that tagline, and I don’t mean just because it costs RM26,670.10 . In fact, it’s safe to say that only ‘seasoned’ scooter riders need apply. If you happen to be into #Scootouring (look it up it’s a real word for touring on a scooter), and have always loved Vespas, this is the one you’ve been waiting for…

First-off, the not-so-good bits. There is precious little cargo room in or on this scoot, so a top box – the biggest you can find – will be a must-have if you plan to scootour.

The area below the seat will fit two helmets, provided they’re of the ‘half-shell’ aka tortoise shell kind, which seems to be quite popular with Vespa owners. As it is, my Givi open-face wouldn’t fit in there. Thankfully there’s a curry-hook located just above the front glove box. Also it gets pretty hot in the under-seat storage area, as sits right above the engine…

And speaking of heat, you see those vents just below the handle bar next to the turn signals? Well those are to allow engine ventilation, and in hard riding, the air coming out of there is extremely hot. I still don’t get that though, the engine is at the back, so why is there so much heat coming out the front? I reckon it’s the radiator’s fans working overtime in our hot climate…

Now the best bit. Powered by a liquid-cooled ‘Quasar’ 278.3cc, single-cylinder, 4-valve, fuel-injected engine, the GTS 300 churns out 21.2bhp and 22Nm of torque. That might not seem like much but don’t let the figures fool you. This is probably one of the quickest mid-size scooters out there. It does 0-100kmh very quickly and tops-out at 140kmh. Actually it might be faster but the speedometer only reads till 140.

Riding on 12-inch wheels front and rear, speeds like that are ill-advised of course, since by virtue of its design, the Vespa isn’t the most aerodynamic of scooters. It is however, incredibly smooth, not just in its power delivery, but also in the way it tackles less-than-perfect roads.

The double hydraulic shock-absorbers with 4 pre-load adjustments in the rear are able to soak up bumps and undulations with ease, complemented by the single-arm, single-shock up front.

One of the best things about the GTS 300 is that it comes standard with ABS and ASR, or anti-skid regulation/traction-control. At the push of a button, the ASR ensures that power-delivery going to the back wheel (via a CVT) is regulated, which is especially beneficial for riding in the rain.

There’s also modern amenities in this scooter, such as a USB port for charging mobile devices, and a remote seat opener and ‘bike-finder’. Activating the latter flashes the GTS 300’s signal lights. Beeping the horn would have been a good addition too. Here’s the final video…

Well, there you have it. Like its own sales materials say, the Vespa GTS Super 300 certainly isn’t for everyone, and will appeal to a select few scooter-fans only. However, in the scooter world, it doesn’t get much more unique and more fun than this, so if you’re looking for something different, this is where the buck stops. – Chris Wee.

STOP THE PRESS! While returning the GTS 300, I spotted this extremely rare and limited-edition Vespa 946 Emporio Armani (above) at Naza Premira. It’s for sale if you’re interested, fully-loaded with all the Emporio Armani accessories and goodies, including EA helmets and EA luggage. It’s price? How does RM100,000 lock-stock-and-barrel sound? No, I couldn’t believe it either…

Vespa GTS Super 300 Photo Gallery…

TCEC Introduces New Renault Captur 2018

TC Euro Cars (TCEC), the sole franchise holder of Renault vehicles in Malaysia, today launched the new Renault Captur, Europe’s best-selling crossover, which features a sportier, more assertive exterior with new bi-toned colours and an interior further refined for enhanced quality.

The new Renault Captur builds on the model’s original success, including its striking two-toned finish. In addition to the popular Flame Red (body) / Diamond Black (roof) colour option, the new Captur is now available in three new body colours: Atacama Orange, Ocean Blue and Pearl White body colours, all paired with a Diamond Black roof.

“With its trendy styling and chic new colours, powerful performance and excellent fuel efficiency, plus its continental quality and safety standards, we believe the new Captur will continue have great appeal, especially for those with active urban lifestyles,” said Kuan Kim Luen, CEO, TC Euro Cars Sdn Bhd.

Pricing for the new Renault Captur remains at RM109,000 (on-the-road inclusive of GST, without insurance, for Peninsular Malaysia and private registration), with an additional RM900 (excluding GST) for the Flame Red and Pearl White colour options, which includes kicking plates and a trunk tray. Locally assembled at the Tan Chong Group plant at Segambut (below), the new Captur is EEV certified and offers excellent fuel efficiency.

Powered by Renault’s turbocharged TCe 120 engine, the new Captur continues to deliver the performance and acceleration of a normally-aspirated 1.8L engine. Mated to a 6-speed Efficient Dual Clutch (EDC) transmission, the spirited crossover is capable of delivering maximum power of 120PS at 4,900rpm and peak torque of 190Nm from as low as 2,000rpm while maintaining exceptional fuel efficiency of up to 5.4L/100km.

In addition to the “5-in-Captur Aftersales Promise” (see below kit list) the refreshed Renault Captur also retains its extensive list of equipment and features (below), while “delivering on excellent driving dynamics, from road holding and agile handling to engine response and driver aids that have helped Captur become the global success that it is.”

List of Renault Captur standard features

Keyless entry and start, with walkaway door lock function
Auto door lock
Auto headlights and rain sensors
Reverse camera
Navigation system
ECO Mode for up to 10% additional fuel savings
A versatile multi-position boot floor
Front door bins that can accommodate 1.5-litre drinks bottles
Four high efficiency airbags – dual frontal and dual head/thorax side
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Hill Start Assist (HSA)
ABS with Electronic Brake Assist (EBA) and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)

What is the 5-in-Captur Aftersales Promise?

The 5-in-Captur aftersales service is continued to offer customers more cost savings and hassle-free servicing over the next five years. The package includes:

Free service and maintenance (parts and labour) for five years or up to 100,000km, whichever comes first
A five-year manufacturer’s warranty with unlimited mileage
Complimentary 24 hours roadside assistance*
Pick-up and delivery during scheduled maintenance at Renault service centres
Mobility service of replacement car in the event any part is not available for over 48 hours at authorised service centres, subject to availability

*only available for customers who purchase their insurance under Tan Chong Insurance Business Stream (TCIBS)

For more details on the new Renault Captur, download this: New Renault Captur Launched in Malaysia

For more information about the new Captur and Renault in Malaysia, visit www.renault.com.my or www.facebook.com/RenaultMalaysia.

Naza Italia Introduces New Maserati GranTurismo In Malaysia

Naza Italia, the official importer and distributor for Maserati in Malaysia, has announced the arrival of the Maserati GranTurismo. The iconic grand tourer, which was first launched in 2007, has received a substantial refresh for 2018, with highlights including enhancements of the classic Pininfarina design, more aerodynamic exterior styling and an intuitive new driver interface and infotainment system.

Datuk Wira Hj SM Faisal Tan Sri SM Nasimuddin, Naza World Group Executive Chairman, said, “The lightly face-lifted 2018 GranTurismo MC exudes modern sophistication and stays true to the car’s most quintessential traits and timeless elegance. As one of the last naturally-aspirated V8 engines in the segment today, the GranTurismo is a celebration of Maserati’s heritage and red-blooded racing pedigree.”

The Pininfarina-designed GranTurismo is a historically significant, brand-defining model for Maserati. The luxurious four-seater sports coupe was conceived as an ultra-modern interpretation of the very first grand tourer, the elegant Maserati A6 1500 of 1947. And over the years, the GranTurismo has evolved into one of the most iconic Maserati cars ever built, thanks to its uncompromised GT character.

This character is perfectly expressed by a uniquely compelling combination – bold yet elegant design; the exhilarating, inspirational performance of a naturally aspirated, Maranello built V8 engine; hand-crafted comfort offered by four individual, Poltrona Frau seats.

In essence, the GranTurismo is the ultimate expression of what grand touring means to Maserati. The GranTurismo is assembled at the historic Maserati plant in Modena. The GranTurismo MC enters the Malaysian market at the starting price of RM 717,800.00 (without local taxes and duties) and comes with 5 years Standard Warranty coverage with no mileage restriction plus a free maintenance program of 5 years/ 100,000 km whichever comes first (Inclusive of Maserati Premium Service Plus of 3 Years /60,000KM).

The public is invited to visit Naza Italia’s showroom in Petaling Jaya to view the GranTurismo, speak with the dedicated sales team in greater detail and test drive Maserati’s newest offering.

More details on the new Maserati GranTurismo can be found after the gallery. Follow @maserati.malaysia (Instagram) and www.facebook/maserati.malaysia for the brand’s latest updates in Malaysia.

Maserati GranTurismo Photo Gallery…

MY18 range, restyling and driver interface

Of the streamlined 2018 range, the Malaysian market will be seeing the GranTurismo MC (Maserati Corse). The MC takes on an important ambassadorial role for the entire Maserati range, representing the company’s long and illustrious racing heritage. Replacing the previous MC Stradale, it offers a wide array of features already proven in other Maserati models. They include the five selectable operating modes.

The naturally aspirated V8 unit is hand-assembled by Ferrari in Maranello and guarantees the highest standards of reliability and durability. The 4.7 litre engine produces 460hp at 7,000rpm and 520Nm of peak torque at 4,750rpm. A lightweight at just 175kg, the power unit features a wet sump and exclusive to Maserati – a cross-plane crankshaft. This provides unrivalled throttle response, free-revving characteristics and a thrilling Maserati signature sound.

When it came to the MY18 restyle, the timeless Pininfarina design was treated with the utmost respect by the Maserati Design Centre. The results, among others, are even better aerodynamic efficiency and compliance with the latest pedestrian safety regulations.

The new front and rear bumpers of the MY18 GranTurismo elegantly refine the visual impact of the striking original styling. The headlights have been slightly restyled, while at the rear, a new parking camera has been integrated. The front bumper features a larger, hexagonal grille with a ‘shark nose’ profile and a chrome insert all around. The new nose is inspired by the sensational Alfieri Concept car and adds a three-dimensional effect to the front view. The design also helps optimize airflow distribution and reduce aerodynamic drag.

The bumper’s lateral air ducts, introduced in the MC Stradale and adopted across the GranTurismo range in 2012, are redesigned for the 2018. By visually pushing the car’s weight towards the front wheels, they convey a heightened sense of dynamic stability, while also contributing to improved aerodynamic efficiency.

The track-focused GranTurismo MC is equipped with a carbon-fibre bonnet in the body colour as standard. The bonnet also features downforce-optimizing air-vents. Additionally, there are iconic vertical air vents in the front wings, deep functional side skirts, titanium brake calipers and 20” MC Design – Grafite Opaco forged wheels. A pronounced rear lip spoiler is another dynamic highlight.

The headlights for the 2018 maintain the same profile and LED/Bi-Xenon functionality, but feature discreet, internal restyling. This includes reshaped LED Daytime Running Lights, grooved housing in the Xenon lamp areas and the Maserati inscription in low relief.

While the sleek body of the GranTurismo remains untouched, the rear bumper has been redesigned with the sole aim of emphasizing the natural elegance of this iconic GT. With its neater, more cohesive design, the new bumper further accentuates the impression of stability, while adding graceful finishing touch to the car’s unmistakable silhouette. The central diffuser emphasis is on elegance, with the oval exhaust outlets appearing at the bumper’s edges.

The central diffuser for the GranTurismo MC is decisively sportier, with round outlets coming through the central, transparent diffuser. The exhaust system of the MC version is lighter and has a totally different shape and function. When is Sport mode, a valve channels exhaust gases so they completely bypass the silencer. This reduces back pressure and creates a breathtakingly sporty sound.

The exterior of the MY18 GranTurismo is available in 16 colours. A brand new three-layer colour is introduced (Blu Assoluto), while four more three-layer colours are available on the entire range. There is a range of 14 light alloy wheels in six designs, one of which is in forged aluminium, and an exterior carbon package is offered.

The MY18 GranTurismo is fitted with new, lightweight, fourth-generation Pirelli P Zero tyres. These contribute to a reduction in unsprung weight plus better suspension performance and tyre grip. The new P Zero is designed to improve braking distances in dry and wet conditions, respectively by 4% and 5%, while improving mileages by at least 30%.

The elegant interior of the GranTurismo offers unparalleled comfort thanks to its four individual Poltrona Frau leather seats with integrated headrests. For 2018, the dashboard features a more sculptured design in the passenger area, complemented in high-fashion style by stitched leather finishes.

The centrepiece of the dashboard is now a high-resolution, 8.4” capacitive touchscreen from the state-of-the-art infotainment system. The GranTurismo system is in line with those featured in the other Maserati models and is compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring functions. New interior refinements in the GranTurismo include the high-end Harman Kardon Premium Sound system and a new Maserati clock with double dial in a slightly more prominent position at the centre of the dashboard.

The climate and seat heating control are not integrated into the touchscreen function, although the central console area is still significantly neater, with fewer buttons than before. The lower console is redesigned to accommodate a user-friendly, double rotary dial – a standard feature on all Maserati models. Positioned next to the gear lever, it is a high-end component in forged aluminium. The driving modes button cluster is now in front of the gear lever.

For 2018, there are eight interior colours and five interior trim options – from Carbon Fibre to Black Piano and Walnut Briarwood.

Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia Introduces AgilityPlus Financing

Answering the call for greater financial flexibility, automotive financing innovator, Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia Sdn Bhd (Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia), recently introduced AgilityPlus. The latest end-to-end solution by the company now gives new customers greater freedom to customise a package that best finances, protects and maintains their prized Mercedes-Benz vehicle.

“Our passion is in enabling the lifestyle of our customers. To do that, Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia is breaking the barriers of conventional financing. The strategy behind our growing portfolio of over RM2.3 billion, is first understanding our customers and what they need. AgilityPlus is perfectly tailored for the individual who seeks value, unrivalled benefits and of course, peace of mind,” said Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia, Managing Director, Mike Ponnaz (above).

With the AgilityPlus package, customers will enjoy the benefits of its signature Agility Financing plan, namely its flexible end of agreement options to settle or extend their contracts, or return their Mercedes-Benz vehicles. The Guaranteed Future Value is another key feature which protects customers against depreciation, while enjoying lower monthly instalments.

Complementing these signature features, AgilityPlus offers customers the option to equip their Agility Financing plan with value add-ons. Customers have the freedom to choose one, or a combination of add-ons, comprising the Mercedes-Benz Comprehensive Motor Insurance, Tyre and Rim Insurance, Return to Invoice (RTI) Insurance as well as the Mercedes-Benz Service Package (Compact or Compact Plus). The service contract from Mercedes-Benz gives customers peace of mind at the wheel, without having to worry about unexpected repairs and costs.

“Customers enjoy greater cash flow flexibility with AgilityPlus because payments are structured into instalments. We designed the package to replace the lump-sum payment requirement so customers can now enjoy savings with upfront purchases. With the inclusion of the Mercedes-Benz Service Package, customers are assured their Mercedes-Benz vehicles are cared for by trained and experienced technicians, equipped with the latest diagnostic tools and guaranteed use of genuine parts. Our presence at touch-points throughout our extensive network further guarantees convenience for our customers nationwide,” explained Ponnaz.

Setting itself apart, AgilityPlus groups key solutions under one roof for added convenience and value-added benefits, enhancing the customer’s journey with the brand. Additionally, customers benefit from savings as a result of being protected against the fluctuations of volatile market prices through the Guarantee Future Value and Mercedes-Benz Service Package.

Customers also have the freedom to adjust the tenure of each financing and insurance solution. The tenure options for Agility Financing, RTI and Mercedes-Benz Service Package (Compact) is between one to five years, while the tenure for Comprehensive Motor Insurance and Tyre and Rim is one year (renewal basis). The Mercedes-Benz Service Package (Compact Plus) is a one-off add-on.

Customers who choose to finance their Mercedes-Benz GLC 200 with the Drive360+ option for five years (20,000km per annum), with a five year RTI, one year Comprehensive Motor Insurance and Tyre and Rim and Service Package (Compact Plus) will only pay RM 4,715 per month.

More recently, MBSM also introduced the EQ Agility Care campaign, which runs until 30 June 2018, to compliment the newly launched EQ Power products. Through the EQ Agility Care campaign, customers who are also eligible to add on AgilityPlus solutions, will receive scheduled vehicle maintenance and servicing, along with an EQ Power charging wallbox packaged with their new EQ Power C350 e or E350 e for an ownership tenure of one to five years.

Through AgilityPlus, MBSM is also running the Performance Agility Care campaign from 25 April to 30 June. The campaign offers Agility Financing for all Mercedes-Benz AMG 43 and 45 models for an ownership tenure of one to five years, complemented by a service package and exclusive AMG merchandise.

For more information on AgilityPlus, visit www.mercedes-benz.com.my/AgilityPlus, call the Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia finance and insurance customer service centre at 1-800-88-1133, or visit any Mercedes-Benz authorised dealer.

Proton In 2018 – Part 4: Caring For The People With 0% GST Right Away!

Zero rated immediately.

With immediate effect, all Proton cars sold and registered from 16 May to 31 May 2018 will include service vouchers equivalent in value to the difference between the current and new price of the car after GST is zero rated. Additionally, PROTON Customer Care is offering a 6% discount on periodical maintenance (labour and periodical maintenance parts only) to all owners who bring their car in for servicing at authorised service centres.

This service initiative will commence on 19 May to 31 May 2018 and customers servicing their cars from 16-18 May 2018, will be given a 6% discount at their next scheduled service (subject to showing the receipt from their previous service). Additionally, PROTON , is enhancing the deal by offering the option of choosing between the aforementioned service vouchers or a cash rebate of the same value.

Zero instalment. Zero interest
These offers are in addition to the current Kosong-kosong promotion where buyers of the Proton Iriz (Executive and Premium variant), Proton Ertiga (all variants) and Proton Exora (all variants) who sign up for 9-year loan tenures with Hong Leong Bank are eligible for 0% financing for the first year. Those who opt for the Proton Saga or Proton Persona instead and finance their purchase with a 7-year loan from PROTON Commerce are eligible to receive free 3-months instalment, subject to terms and conditions.

“PROTON is supportive of the new Malaysian government’s efforts to reduce the cost of living for the rakyat. Despite zero rated GST only coming into effect on 1 June, we have decided to reward our customers immediately as a token of gratitude for their support and in the spirit of the holy month of Ramadan,” said Abdul Rashid Musa, PROTON Vice President of Sales & Marketing.

The offer is applicable to all Proton cars bought and registered from 16 May to 31 May 2018 and supplements other sales promotions.
“PROTON announced an initiative to give Malaysian car buyers the benefit of paying zero rated GST prices before it comes into effect recently. Today, we are giving them options on how they would like to receive this benefit, either as service vouchers or a cash rebate. There is now no reason to wait until 1 June 2018 to buy a new Proton as we have delivered the savings ahead of time,” said Abdul Rashid Musa, PROTON Vice President of Sales & Marketing.

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BIKES: Vespa GTS Super 300 Quasar – Definitely Not For Everyone! [+Videos]

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