Home - Piston.my

Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series: The Sportiest Maybach – 4.0 litre, 585hp

The Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series, the sportiest model in the Maybach brand’s history, introduces a refined blend of luxury and performance. This open-top two-seater debuts with two curated design concepts: the Red Ambience, featuring an obsidian black metallic and Manufaktur garnet red metallic finish, and the White Ambience, with obsidian black metallic contrasting against Manufaktur opalite white magno.

The exterior and interior of the Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 are meticulously crafted with the Maybach pattern as a cohesive design element. The car’s interior is adorned with sustainably tanned, crystal white Manufaktur Exclusive Nappa leather and gleaming silver chrome trim.

This luxurious ambience is complemented by the illuminated brand-specific chrome-finished radiator grille and Maybach lettering, along with a distinctive bonnet featuring a chromed fin.

The car’s performance is powered by a 4.0-litre biturbo engine delivering 585hp, paired with a 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission and fully variable 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive. Enhanced driving and acoustic comfort are ensured through noise-optimised exhaust systems, extensive insulation, and a comfort-oriented suspension setup.

In conjunction with the launch, Maybach Icons of Luxury will offer an exclusive collection inspired by the vehicle’s materials and colours. This collection, available in boutiques and online, includes a leather jacket, sneakers, a scarf, a tote bag, and a dog bag, all designed to complement the opulent style of the Mercedes-Maybach SL Monogram Series.

The market rollout of this luxurious model begins in Europe in the spring of 2025, with other markets to follow.

UMW Toyota Motor Announces Order-Taking For The Enhanced 2024 Hilux, Fortuner And GR86

UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has announced the opening of orders for the 2024 models of the Toyota Hilux, Toyota Fortuner, and Toyota GR86, all of which come with significant enhancements and upgrades. The order books for these models are now officially open.

Maintaining its position as Malaysia’s top non-national automotive brand, UMWT continues to deliver innovative mobility solutions that meet the diverse needs of Malaysian drivers. The company’s commitment to quality, performance, and customer satisfaction remains steadfast as it pushes the boundaries of automotive excellence.

Toyota Hilux: Malaysia’s Best-Selling Pick-Up Truck

The Toyota Hilux, known for its durability and reliability, remains a top choice for Malaysian consumers. Its robust design and enhanced features continue to lead the pick-up segment, offering a perfect blend of performance and practicality.

Vehicle Stability Control: Now included in the Hilux 2.4 Single Cab, significantly improving handling performance.
Remote Engine Start: A first for Toyota models, this feature allows users to start or stop the engine, preheat or cool the cabin, and schedule engine operation via the Toyota My app, available on selected Hilux variants.

(more…)

BMW Introduces the New M5 Touring: A High-Performance Wagon with Everyday Usability

BMW is expanding its lineup with the introduction of the new BMW M5 Touring, a car that promises to deliver a blend of high performance and everyday practicality, making it a standout in the high-performance wagon segment.

At the heart of the new M5 Touring is the M HYBRID drive system, which integrates a 4.4-litre V8 engine with an electric motor. This combination produces an impressive total output, delivering 585hp from the V8 and an additional 197hp from the electric motor. Together, they generate a combined torque of up to 750Nm from the engine and 450Nm from the electric motor. This powertrain allows the M5 Touring to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in just 3.6 seconds. The standard top speed is set at 250km/h, but this can be increased to 305km/h with the optional M Driver’s Package. Additionally, the vehicle boasts an electric range of 61–67km, made possible by an 18.6 kWh high-voltage battery.

The exterior of the M5 Touring is both athletic and muscular, featuring a high proportion of surfaces painted in body colour, complemented by a Black solid finish for the roof. The front of the car is marked by large air intakes and a new BMW M kidney grille, while the rear showcases slim lights, vertical reflectors, and a split diffuser, enhancing the vehicle’s dynamic and aggressive look.

Underpinning the car is a sophisticated chassis setup that includes a double-wishbone front axle and a five-link rear axle, both of which have been tuned specifically for this model. The adaptive M suspension and Integral Active Steering contribute to the car’s exceptional handling and ride quality. The M5 Touring also comes standard with M Compound brakes, though M Carbon ceramic brakes are available as an option. The car rides on M light-alloy wheels, measuring 20 inches at the front and 21 inches at the rear, and is fitted with high-performance tires.

Inside, the M5 Touring features an M-specific, driver-focused cockpit, which includes a newly designed M leather steering wheel and M multifunction seats. The cabin is adorned with Merino leather trim and equipped with four-zone automatic climate control and a Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System, providing a luxurious and comfortable environment. The vehicle also offers a generous cargo space, with a load capacity ranging from 500 to 1,630 litres, and includes features such as Comfort Access and automatic tailgate operation.

In terms of driving assistance and safety, the M5 Touring is equipped with a range of standard features, including front collision warning, Lane Departure Warning, Evasion Assistant, and Speed Limit Info. For those seeking even more advanced capabilities, options such as Driving Assistant Professional and Parking Assistant Professional are available.

The infotainment and connectivity systems are anchored by the latest BMW iDrive system, which is based on Operating System 8.5. This system offers enhanced touchscreen and voice control capabilities. The M5 Touring also features 5G compatibility, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various personalisation options through the BMW ID and My BMW App.

The BMW M5 Touring is set to make its world premiere at Monterey Car Week in mid-August 2024, with the market launch scheduled for November 2024 following the production start at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing. Designed to cater to drivers who demand both a thrilling driving experience and the versatility of a practical and luxurious daily driver, the new BMW M5 Touring is poised to be a significant addition to the BMW lineup.

Mercedes-Benz EQS 450 4MATIC SUV Launched – RM626k

The Mercedes-Benz EQS 450 4MATIC SUV is an impressive addition to the luxury electric vehicle segment, offering a blend of cutting-edge technology, performance, and comfort. Here are some key highlights:

Performance and Range

Power and Acceleration: The EQS 450 4MATIC SUV boasts a rated output of 360hp and a maximum torque of 800 Nm, allowing it to sprint from 0 to 100km/h in just 6.1 seconds.
Electric Range: With a range of up to 673km (WLTP), the EQS SUV offers both impressive acceleration and long-distance capability.

Drivetrain and Suspension

Electric Drive Train: The vehicle uses a highly efficient electric drive train (eATS) on both the front and rear axles, with a Torque Shift function that optimally distributes torque.

Suspension: The EQS SUV features a four-link axle at the front, a multi-link suspension at the rear, and AIRMATIC air suspension with continuously adjustable damping ADS+. It also offers rear-axle steering for enhanced maneuverability.

Safety and Assistance Features

Advanced Safety: The EQS SUV is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including the Driving Assistance Package Plus, URBAN GUARD Plus, and a 360° camera.

Charging Capabilities

Charging System: The EQS SUV offers AC charging up to 22 kW and DC fast charging up to 200 kW, with quick charging times of 6 hours and 15 minutes (0%-100% SOC) for AC and 31 minutes (10%-80% SOC) for DC.

Interior and Infotainment

Luxurious Interior: The vehicle includes multicontour front seats, a third row, and climatised front seats with three-stage ventilation and heating. The MBUX Hyperscreen integrates the instrument panel into a single widescreen display, while the MBUX Augmented Reality Head-up Display offers 3D navigation and driving assistance.

Entertainment: Rear passengers enjoy THERMOTRONIC climate control, touch displays, and the MBUX High-End Rear Seat Entertainment System. The cabin is equipped with a Dolby Atmos® sound system and Burmester® surround sound for an immersive audio experience.

Exterior Features

Exterior Design: The EQS SUV’s AMG Line Exterior includes a Black Panel radiator grille, 22-inch AMG multi-spoke wheels, and illuminated running boards.
Lighting: The DIGITAL LIGHT with Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus and a panoramic sliding sunroof enhance visibility and ambiance.

Pricing and Availability

Price: The Mercedes-Benz EQS 450 4MATIC SUV is priced at RM 625,888 (including 10% ST) for Peninsular Malaysia. Delivery is set to commence from September 2024 onwards.

This model showcases Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to delivering luxury, performance, and innovation in the electric vehicle market.

Pininfarina Unveils Exclusive Open-Top Battista Targamerica

Italians have long been renowned for their mastery in crafting convertibles, and the new Pininfarina Battista Targamerica is a testament to this legacy. Debuting at Monterey Car Week, this bespoke open-top version of the electric hypercar is a stunning addition to Pininfarina’s illustrious portfolio.

The Targamerica is a one-off creation commissioned by a discerning client who already owns a Battista coupe. While the B95 Speedster was Pininfarina’s first convertible, the Targamerica marks the inaugural open-top version of the Battista. This special edition raises questions about why the Battista wasn’t initially offered as a convertible.

Remarkably, the Targamerica went from concept to reality in just one year, following the client’s commission at last year’s Monterey Car Week. Its striking silver with blue accents pays homage to the Ferrari Testarossa Spider—a unique convertible created in 1986 for Fiat heir Gianni Angelli. Noteworthy features of the Targamerica include a custom rear decklid and distinctive doors, as well as an integrated cigar humidor between the seats, catering to the client’s appreciation for cigars.

The Battista, the flagship model of Automobili Pininfarina—a division of India’s Mahindra based in Germany—is built on the Rimac Nevera’s platform. It boasts a staggering 1,900hp from its four electric motors, making it a formidable contender in the hypercar arena.

The Targamerica will be showcased at The Quail on Friday, with the client set to take delivery afterward. While Automobili Pininfarina has not disclosed plans for additional Battista convertibles, the Targamerica’s debut suggests that this may not be the last of such exclusive models.

2025 Proton X70 Officially Launched From RM98,800

Proton has officially launched the latest version of the Proton X70, which brings several notable upgrades and refinements to the SUV market. This new model builds on the strengths of its predecessor while offering enhancements in performance, design, comfort, and connectivity.

Under the hood, the new X70 features a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine producing 177PS at 5500rpm and 255Nm of torque at 1500rpm. This engine includes improved combustion efficiency for cleaner emissions and enhanced performance. Noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) have been reduced, providing a quieter driving experience. Advanced thermal management optimises engine temperatures, reduces friction, and improves fuel efficiency through new transmission settings. Software updates in the Engine Management System (EMS) and Transmission Control Unit (TCU) further refine fuel consumption and overall efficiency.

The exterior design of the X70 has been refreshed with a new hood, fender, front bumper, and grille featuring an infinite weave diamond pattern with a chrome finish. It also includes LED headlamps with 47 LEDs for better illumination, a redesigned rear bumper, and new two-tone alloy wheels. A power tailgate with auto-open functionality enhances convenience.

Inside, the X70 now includes a 3-point shift lever, a new steering wheel, and a multicolour ambient lighting system with 72 colour options and three modes: single, breathing, and multicolour. Premium variants come with Stone Grey upholstery and Nappa leather seats.

The SUV boasts an advanced suite of safety technologies, including Walk Away Auto Lock, Nearby Auto Door Unlock, a 360 Camera Display, and an Electric Parking Brake with Auto Hold. It features 13 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Level 2, such as Autonomous Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop&Go, Lane Departure Warning, and Lane Centering Control.

NVH improvements include reduced gear whine and smoother operation from the new 7-Speed EVO300 Transmission. Enhanced insulation and noise suppression throughout the vehicle contribute to a more premium feel.

The upgraded infotainment system features a 12.3-inch screen with 1920×720 resolution, powered by a dual quad-core processor with 4GB RAM and 32GB storage. The Proton Link app allows remote control of engine, windows, locks, and air conditioning. The “Hi Proton” voice command system manages various functions, while connectivity includes 3 USB Type-A ports and 2 USB Type-C ports, along with Apple Carplay and Android Auto.

The new Proton X70 is available in Marine Blue (Flagship), Jet Grey, Armour Silver, Ruby Red, and White.

Pricing for the four available variants are RM98,800 for thE 1.5 TGDi Standard, RM110,800 for the 1.5 TGDi Executive, RM123,800 for the 1.5 TGDi Premium and RM126,800 1.5 TGDi Premium X.

Early birds (first 3,000 customer) get RM7,000 cash rebate, trade-in overtrade support for RM2,800 and upgraded Proton insurance programme. Standard packages consist of 5-Year warranty with unlimited mileage, 5-year data package with 1GB/month, six times free labour service, financing interest rates from 2.4%PA and Proton insurance programme.