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It’s Coming! Ford Unleashes First-Ever Ranger Raptor In Thailand!

The first-ever Ranger Raptor, Ford’s new 4×4 off-road, performance pick-up truck, blasted out from behind its camouflage during a reveal event in Thailand recently, which means it’ll soon be here… and it can’t come soon enough! Just look at it…

The ultimate Ranger is purposefully designed, built and tested to set a benchmark as the only factory-built performance truck across Asia Pacific. Designed by Ford Performance team for the true enthusiast off-roader, Ford Ranger Raptor strengthens Ford’s commitment to deliver “Built Ford Tough” pickup trucks to customers in Asia Pacific.

“We are so excited and proud to unleash this vehicle to the public, driving it really makes you feel like a hero,” said Jamal Hameedi, chief engineer, Ford Performance. “The Ford Performance team is excited to extend the Raptor name from our flagship off-road performance F-150 to Ranger. Just like the F-150 Raptor, the Ranger Raptor builds upon the core capability of the range of vehicles it comes from and carries the unmistakable Ford Performance DNA appearance.”

Tuned for all Terrain…

Ranger Raptor comes with a Terrain Management System (TMS) offering six modes for various driving experiences, which can be selected via a dedicated five-button switch located on the steering wheel. Each mode has been calibrated to offer the best possible combination of technologies working in unison to tackle the chosen terrain or driving style with aplomb. These include:

On-road modes

– Normal mode – Emphasising comfort, fuel economy and driveability

– Sport mode – Responsive for spirited on-road driving. This means fast, crisp gear shifts at higher engine speeds to aid throttle response. The mapping reacts to increased demand inputs from the driver by holding gears longer and downshifting more aggressively.

Off-road modes

– Grass/Gravel/Snow mode – Designed to inspire safe and confident driving on off-road slippery and uneven surfaces. This is done through smoother gear shifts and second-gear starts, minimizing the probability of wheel slip.

– Mud/Sand mode – Vehicle responsiveness is tuned for optimum traction and momentum in deep, deformable surfaces like loose sand and mud. This is achieved by maintaining lower gears with high torque.

– Rock mode – Used specifically for low-speed rocky terrain where smooth controllability is key.

– Baja mode – Vehicle responsiveness is tuned for high-speed off-road performance, just like drivers need in the famous Baja Desert Rally. In this mode, vehicle systems like Traction Control are pared back in terms of intervention to allow spirited off-road driving without fighting the vehicle’s on-board systems. Gear selection is optimized for maximum performance, and the mapping will hold gears longer and downshift more aggressively.

Power to Move You…

The Ranger Raptor powertrain features cutting edge technology to offer more power and torque, better fuel economy, less weight and with off-road specific calibrations for engine, transmission, driveline, steering, brakes and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system.

In a revolutionary move to deliver incredible performance and responsiveness, a 10-Speed transmission is combined with a new 2.0-liter Bi-Turbo diesel engine in the Ranger Raptor to deliver a maximum of 213PS (157kW) of power and a whopping 500Nm of torque.

Ford’s comprehensive Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system is also there to help in difficult cornering and braking situations. The impressive technology suite includes Trailer Sway Control (TSC), Hill Start Assist (HSA), Hill Descent Control (HDC) and Load Adaptive Control (LAC).

We’ll keep you posted on the impending Malaysian launch of the Raptor, coming soon! – CW.

For the full Press Release, click here: Press Release_Ford Unleashes First Ever Ranger Raptor_EN

Ford Ranger Raptor Photo Gallery…

At a glance…

Setting a new benchmark in off-road pickup capability, the Ranger Raptor has been designed to combine Ford Performance DNA with Ranger’s renowned toughness and engineering capability
Ranger Raptor includes standard front and rear Fox Racing Shox shock absorbers to help travel at high speeds off-road and includes increased ride height, wider track and improved approach and departure angles that ensure extreme off-road capability and stability
Innovative all-new Watt’s linkage rear suspension with coilover rear springs helps ensure rear axle lateral stability off-road while also improving ride and handling
New powertrain combination of a 2.0-liter Bi-Turbo diesel engine and 10-speed transimission has proven durability through extensive testing, offering smooth torque and power through independent turbos and closer gear ratios over a wider overall span
Ranger Raptor has been tested in the world’s toughest conditions to ensure an unrivalled off-road package is offered to astonish and excite drivers

BIKES: Moto Guzzi V7 III Stone – You Need BIG ‘Stones’ To Ride This!

I’m going to say this right off the bat so that I don’t forget to later: Do NOT buy this bike if you’re a beginner and just starting off in the world of 2-wheelers. I say that not as a challenge of any kind, but more from the fact that this bike is definitely for a seasoned biker, I kid you not.

I love this bike. I really do, because it reminds me of of my old 90’s Ducati 900SS, which was the most unforgiving bitch of a bike I’ve ever had the pleasure of owning. Right off the bat, just like my old Ducati, this ‘Guzzi’ tried to spit me off…twice.

Let’s also get this out of the way right now too; that ‘unique’ V-engine will not be everyone’s cuppa tea. First off, unlike other vees, this one protrudes transversely, like a BMW boxer engine; only this boxer is taking shots at your knees, and not your ankles like a BMW.

The vibration during start-up is very noticeable, because the counter-balancers will only smooth things out after about 2,000rpm. In fact, blip the throttle when the bike is idling on its side-stand and you might think it’s gonna topple over. That’s how severe the left-right pitch is, because unlike that aforementioned boxer engine where the pistons are low, the ones in this vee sit pretty high.

However, during highway cruising, the V7 III Stone is as smooth as you could expect any V-twin to be. Of course it’ll never be as smooth as an in-line 4, but manages to handle highway riding quite well, cruising steadily at 140kmh is not a problem at all for this bike, it just powers along, its engine thrumming away smoothly.

It has a 21-litre fuel tank, so long-distance rides will not be a problem at all, in fact I managed to see 260km on the trip-meter between fill-ups, and the low-fuel warning-light hadn’t even illuminated yet. The riding-position is as upright as you’re ever going to be when it comes to bikes, and power wise there’s a healthy 52bhp at 6,200 rpm, and 60Nm of torque at 4,900 rpm.

But here comes the part where I tell you why this bike isn’t for beginners. For starters, this bike’s acceleration is BRUTAL. I’m not exaggerating, it really is. Vee engines are known to be quick off the mark, but this thing has taken that to a whole new level.

It’s also this brutal acceleration coupled with the low-end wobble that makes for a rather daunting proposition when it comes to low-speed maneuverability with the V7, and here’s where most, if not all, riders are going to find it quite a handful. Utilizing ride-by-wire technology, the V7’s throttle is like a hair-trigger. It is overly responsive and requires a very precise, almost feather-touch, especially when negotiating around obstacles; for example: lane filtering during a traffic jam.

Another place that may get novice riders in trouble with the V7 would be when it came to powering-out while exiting a corner. As I mentioned earlier, the throttle has a hair-trigger, and just a bit too much twist could send the back-end out. Not knowing how to ‘catch’ this could be a painful lesson indeed.

I’ll put it this way; if you’ve just gotten your full-B license after passing your test and taking all your lessons on a JPJ issued Kawa ER6N/F, you are in for the shock of your life if you buy this as your first bike. It may actually put you off biking altogether.

Don’t get me wrong, the Moto Guzzi V7 is not a bad bike, it doesn’t really wanna spit you off, but it will, if you haven’t got the experience to handle it, or more importantly, counteract it. Think of it as a wild-stallion that needs to be tamed….slowly, eventually. Build-up your real-world riding skill (because the mandatory lessons to get your full-B license are an archaic joke) through the various categories before swinging a leg over something like this.

Moto Guzzi has never been a run-of-the-mill bike maker, I doubt it ever will be, but I can’t tell you how happy I am that they are being represented in Malaysia by The Gasket Alley in PJ.

For the northern region, over in Penang, Sheng Fatt Motor Specialist takes care of the Moto Guzzi brand, in fact, this test bike came from them, and I actually rode it back from Penang during the Petron Blaze RON100 Media Ride recently.

In conclusion, priced at around RM66,900 (OTR without insurance) I have to say I really like this bike, but I just can’t stress enough how unsuitable it is for a beginner. Don’t say I didn’t warn you. – Chris Wee.

Moto Guzzi V7 Full Manufacturer Details: PR Moto Guzzi V7 III ENG_ok

Moto Guzzi V7 III Stone Photo Gallery…

Moto Guzzi V7 III: Technical Specifications

Displacement Bore Travel Timing system	744 cc 80 mm 74 mm 2 valves with light alloy pushrods and rockers
Max Power	38 kW (52 HP) at 6200 rpm
Maximum torque at crankshaft	60 Nm at 4900 rpm
Exhaust system	3-way catalytic converter with double lambda probe
Cooling Frame: Wheelbase: Trail: Headstock angle:	Air double cradle tubular frame in ALS steel with detachable elements. 1463 mm 106 mm 26.4°
Front suspension Travel:	Ø 40 mm hydraulic telescopic fork 130 mm
Rear suspension Wheel travel:	die cast light alloy swing arm with 2 shock absorbers with adjustable spring preload (Öhlins fully adjustable for Racer) 93 mm (shock absorber travel 80 mm) (Stone/Special/Anniversario) 96 mm (shock absorber travel 75 mm) for Racer
Front Brake	Ø 320 mm stainless steel floating discs, Brembo callipers with 4 differently sized opposed pistons
Rear brake	Ø 260 mm, stainless steel disc, floating calliper with 2 pistons
Front wheel	18″ in lightweight alloy (Stone), spoked (Special/Racer/Anniversario)100/90 (110/80 R18 as alternative)
Rear wheel	17″ in lightweight alloy (Stone), spoked (Special/Racer/Anniversario)130/80
Saddle height Length: Height: Minimum ground clearance:	770 mm 2,185 mm 1110 mm 150 mm
Fuel tank capacity	21 litres (including 4 litre reserve)
Kerb weight	189 kg (Stone) – 193 (Special/Anniversario)
Kerb weight*	209 kg (Stone) – 213 (Special/Anniversario)
	* Weight with motorcycle ready for use with all operating fluids and with 90% fuel.

Isuzu Malaysia Introduces Enhanced D-Max Premium & Z-Prestige

Isuzu Malaysia Sdn Bhd has officially introduced an enhanced Isuzu D-Max with an upgraded interior and exterior alongside a fresh color option.

The Premium D-Max (including 3.0L and 2.5L) and D-Max Z-Prestige are now equipped with a new 8-inch touch screen infotainment system with built-in GPS Navigation, Smart Mirroring, Wi-Fi, AUX-Jack, USB, iPod, Bluetooth and others. This makes the screen more user friendly and the built-in location of official Isuzu outlets enable the customers to find the service outlets easily.

As for another new feature, a sliding cargo tray is installed on the D-Max Z-Prestige variant. It is optional for the rest of the D-Max variants and customers can opt to have this accessory. The cargo tray slides to the back of the cargo area, making goods easier to retrieve when pulled forward to the tail gate.

This also reduces the instances of back injury as the user can lift the weight closer to the body. A new leather seat is also installed into the Isuzu D-Max Premium AT (3.0L) and D-Max Z-Prestige. It exhibits a contemporary sporty design with rectangular geometric shapes. The new color Cavalry Purple Mica will replace the current Nautilus Blue Mica. The appearance of the color is blackish under dark conditions while it impress on the eyes as a dark shade of purple under the sun.

Isuzu Malaysia Chief Operating Officer, Masayuki Suzuki said, “The enhanced D-Max retains our core values (fuel efficiency, durability, and reliability) and the exterior and interior improvements are made in accordance to the user needs so that it will be favorably acknowledged by the users in Malaysia”.

Pricing…

D-Max 2.5L : Price starts from RM95, 741.20 (OTR without Insurance)
Premium D-Max 2.5L (MT-P) : RM105,811.20 (OTR without insurance)
D-Max 3.0L : Price starts from RM115,249.40 (OTR without insurance)
Premium AT D-Max 3.0L (AT-P) : RM123,517.40 (OTR without insurance)
D-Max Z-Prestige : Price starts from RM130,354.40 (OTR without insurance)

For more details on Isuzu’s range of vehicles, call 1-300-88-1133 or visit www.isuzu.net.my/pickup/.

UMW Toyota Introduces Upgraded Avanza 1.5X

UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd will soon introduce a new variant to its popular Avanza MPV, called the Avanza 1.5X which has a revised and more rugged theme to its appearance. This new variant is nowopen for booking with prices starting from RM82,700 (excluding insurance, for private registration in Peninsular Malaysia).

The upgraded Avanza will be available for viewing after 24th February 2018 at all UMW Toyota showrooms nationwide, but as mentioned bookings are already being accepted.

Avanza 1.5X Key External Appearance Changes…

The new variant comes with front and rear bumpers with black coloured extensions and silver mouldings, as well as over-fenders around the wheel arches. The over-fenders, finished in black, provide additional protection from road debris which may be thrown up by the wheels. At the same time, it visually lessens the gap between the tyres and wheel arches.

The side cladding also contributes to the rugged image while having a functional purpose of protecting the bodywork. New rear combination reflector units are integrated with the rear lights, providing a stylish touch at the rear end of the Avanza 1.5X.

Want to know more?

For the full Press Release, click here: 011_New Toyota Avanza 1.5X

For the full Price List, click here: Avanza price summary 2018

Bell & Ross Introduces BR03-92 ‘Nightlum’

If you happen to be a watch aficionado in addition to being a car-nut (so many are), well, famed watch maker Bell & Ross has just released this, the new BR03-92 NIGHTLUM.

“With its modern design and functionalist dial, this new timepiece fulfills the mission of displaying time with the utmost efficiency, dear to Bell & Ross” – B&R.

The BR03-92 Nightlum returns to basics with its pure and simple lines. It evocative name recalls an outstanding readability at nighttime. With its unparalleled brightness, the green tinted Superluminova® C3 (below) is ultra-phosphorescent and allows for an easier reading of indexes and large numbers, be it day or nighttime.

The minimalist design of the BR03-92, with its black matte ceramic case, ultra-phosphorescent green numbers and grey-green lambskin strap will seduce every pilot watch lover.

BR03-92 NIGHTLUM is now available exclusively at Bell & Ross Boutiques at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, The Gardens Mid Valley City Kuala Lumpur, Gurney Plaza Penang. The BR03-92 Nightlum retails for RM16,400.

Full Press Release: NEWS-NIGHTLUM-EN

BR03-92 Nightlum Photo Gallery…

Honda Malaysia Extends Model Range With New Odyssey Launch [+Videos]

Honda Malaysia Sdn Bhd (HMSB) has extended its model range equipped with Next Generation Advanced Safety Technology by introducing its first model for 2018, the new 7-seater Odyssey MPV with Honda SENSING. Check out this quick 360-degree walk-around and interior video taken at the launch:

The Odyssey is the third model after the CR-V and Accord to be equipped with Honda SENSING, the safety feature which bagged the 2016 ASEAN NCAP Grand Prix Award in the “Best Safety Technology” from a carmaker category. The launch of the New Odyssey completes the trifecta of Honda vehicles with SENSING in Malaysia, which includes its sedans, sport-utility vehicles (SUV) and multi-purpose/passenger vehicles (MPV).

The Honda SENSING* in the new Odyssey consists of six features, which are divided into the two categories of Safety and Convenience, as well as Comfort:

Features for Safety:
– Forward Collision Warning (FCW) that will trigger a visual warning and audible alerts for the driver when the monocular camera and a millimetre wave radar detect that it is at risk of collision with the front vehicle
– Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) which assists in applying brake force progressively when it senses an increasing risk of collision
– Lane Departure Warning (LDW) which monitors vehicle lane position using cameras, and alerts if the driver drives out of the lane
– Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) that provides alerts, applies brakes and assists the driver’s steering to prevent driving off the road .

Features for Convenience & Comfort:
– Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) that sets a desired speed and following interval from the vehicle detected ahead
– Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS) which uses camera to read lane markings and assist the driver’s steering to keep the vehicle in the centre of its lane

Honda Malaysia Group Vice President, Akkbar Danial said, “In addition to Honda SENSING, the New Odyssey is expected to elevate the safety benchmark in Malaysia’s MPV segment with its unrivalled premium safety features. These include Multi-view Camera System, Smart Parking Assist System, Blind Spot Information that alerts on oncoming vehicle in the blind spot when the driver is switching lanes and Cross Traffic Monitoring that gives off a warning whistle when a collision with a cross-approaching vehicle is predicted when backing up the MPV. On top of all these features which are exclusively found only in the Odyssey, the New Odyssey is also equipped with six airbags.”

You can see him highlight some of the new Odyssey features in this short video:

The outward appearance of the Odyssey is enhanced with a new front bumper, new front grille, new LED rear lights, LED fog lights, 17” Dual Tone Alloy Wheels, Auto Retractable Door Mirrors and it is also equipped with Auto Dim Rear View Mirror. Meanwhile, the interior of the Odyssey has also received a makeover.

These include new bigger armrests for the driver seat, 4-Way Passenger Power Seat, added storage and enhanced utility as well as bigger headrest for its Premium Captain Cradle Seats with Ottoman on the second row to boost comfort and enjoyment for the passengers, especially during long journeys. The Ultra-Low Floor Platform of the New Odyssey eases passenger ingress and egress in addition to enabling this MPV to have a spacious cabin that is equivalent to a large-class MPV.

The Odyssey upholds its predecessor’s characteristics that offer a refined and exquisite silhouette, spacious and elegant interior while being fully equipped with other advanced features of an MPV. Performance-wise, the Odyssey is powered by a 2.4L DOHC  i-VTEC Earth Dreams Technology engine mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that gives dynamic acceleration at start and also best-in-class fuel efficiency.

The Odyssey is offered in just one variant, the 2.4L EXV with Honda SENSING, and it’s priced at RM254,800 without insurance (including GST). Honda Malaysia has set a sales target of 130 units per year for the New Odyssey.

It will be available in three colour options, of which two are the first in a Honda model. The new colours are Platinum White Pearl and Premium Twinkle Black Pearl, while the popular Super Platinum Metallic is maintained.

It is now open for booking at all 93 Honda dealers nationwide. It comes with 5-year warranty with unlimited mileage and a service interval of 10,000km.

For more information on the new Odyssey with Honda SENSING or to book a test drive, you can visit any Honda authorised dealer or call Honda’s toll free number at 1-800-88-2020, or log on to www.honda.com.my.

2018 Honda Odyssey Launch Photo Gallery…