There’s no denying the fact that the future of mobility has its foot firmly planted in electricity and more companies are coming up with their very own versions of the ultimate electric vehicle. One particular start-up company from Silicon Valley called Drako Motors has a slightly different vision in mind with their recently introduced 2020 Drako GTE, an electric four-door sedan with 1,200hp. (more…)
If you’re looking for the ultimate and rare supercar, McLaren Kuala Lumpur has just the option for you with their latest McLaren 720S Spider. Priced at RM1.218 million, there are only 3 units available for the Malaysian market and if you happen to buy one, we would like to be your best friends. (more…)
Each person has their special days – birthdays, anniversaries, etc – which they celebrate each year. But for all Malaysians, August 31 is celebrated by everyone to mark the day when the country became independent in 1957. Many companies have special activities or in the case of Proton, create something special for the occasion.
62 units for 62nd year
For this year’s 62nd Merdeka celebration, the Malaysian carmaker has created its first limited production SUV – the X70 Merdeka Edition. Only 62 units are available at RM126,100 each. Customers can choose from two exterior colour choices – Snow White or Flame Red.
The number of units available naturally coincides with the 62nd anniversary of Malaysia’s independence. Proton expects that all units will be taken up during August, especially since demand for the X70 continues to be high.
Similar spec level to Premium variant
Mechanically, the X70 Merdeka Edition is identical in specification to the Premium variant of the SUV. The exclusive items are the exterior styling package and some additional interior trim.
For the exterior, a signature paint finish called Quartz Black has been added to the roof and A-pillar. Door visors have also been added all-around together with a rear bumper scuff plate and, as a finishing touch, a customised Merdeka Edition emblem has been mounted on the tailgate.
Unique numbered emblem for each unit
Inside, there are exclusive floormats, a mat in the cargo area and a special numbered Merdeka Edition emblem to identify each unit uniquely. The Nappa leather seats and glass roof along with the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) found on the Premium variant are all present in the Merdeka Edition.
“The Proton X70 Merdeka Edition was born out of Proton’s desire to celebrate Malaysia’s Merdeka anniversary month. We are extremely thankful for the support Malaysian car buyers and the Malaysian government have shown to Proton, so this is the company’s way of creating a special version of the Proton X70 as a small gesture of thanks to all Malaysians,” said Dr. Li Chunrong, CEO of Proton.
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Visit www.proton.com to locate a showroom in Malaysia to see the various models available
The Toyota Hilux, Fortuner and Innova are collectively referred to as the IMV models, referring to the ‘Innovative international Multi-purpose Vehicles’ project in the early 2000s which was one of Toyota’s biggest industrial investments. The project established an optimal production and supply system for the three models almost entirely outside Japan for the first time in the company’s history.
The first generation of IMV models debuted in 2005 and since then, they have undergone constant improvement and upgrading and in 2019, the latest Toyota Hilux pick-up range gets upgraded features as well as a new variant. The Fortuner SUV and Innova MPV have also received enhancements.
Order-taking for the new models begins at all authorized Toyota showrooms nationwide from today (August 16, 2019).
New Hilux variant
For the Hilux range, a new Black Edition replaces the Hilux 2.8 L-Edition. This new edition has a bolder appearance with an exterior colour theme of black and dark grey. A glossy black finish is applied to the door handles, foglamp covers, wing mirrors and on its 18-inch alloy wheels, while dark grey is used for the bumper guards. Dark grey is also used for the grille with contrasting black to make it even more outstanding.
The Hilux 2.8 Black Edition sits the top of the range with a selling price of RM139,888 in Peninsular Malaysia (private registration, without insurance). Other Hilux variants available include the 2.4 Single Cab M/T, 2.4 STD M/T, 2.4 G M/T, 2.4 G A/T and 2.4 L-Edition A/T, priced between RM90,000 and RM124,888.
The new variant also gets a new infotainment system with 6.75-inch display for a clearer view and easier operation. With Android Auto and Apple CarPlay available as standard, seamless connectivity is possible for all compatible smartphones (with the required software is installed). This gives the driver access to favourite apps (Waze, Spotify, etc) right on the dashboard, enhancing motoring pleasure.
UMW Toyota Motor is also introducing a Vehicle Telematics System (VTS) which is strongly recommended. The 3-year subscription fee is free if the customer also purchases the Toyota insurance package. In addition, there is a Rear Digital Video Recorder (DVR) to supplement the one installed at the front. This additional DVR can provide useful evidence in the event of a rear-end collision.
Customers can also include with their purchase optional Advanced Safety & Security features such as the Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) on the wing mirrors and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) to detect vehicles approaching from either side when reversing out.
Upgrades for the Fortuner
The Fortuner 2.7 SRZ and 2.4 VRZ now have Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as standard, together with a large 9-inch display for the infotainment system. These provide seamless connectivity with most smartphones that have the required software installed. The large display makes viewing of information as well as operation much easier.
The Fortuner 2.4 variant now has 7 airbags as well for added occupant protection all round. The additional airbags cover the side windows, enhancing protection during side impacts as well as reducing the possibility of occupants being ejected from the cabin.
Customers can add a rear Digital Video Recorder (DVR) to complement the standard front unit with their purchase of a new Fortuner. The devices are professionally installed by UMWT’s own personnel who have been specially trained to ensure that the quality of workmanship is as high as the rest of the vehicle.
The price of Fortuner 2.7 SRZ A/T and 2.4 VRZ A/T has not changed. However, the 2.4 A/T is now priced at RM171,500 (Peninsular Malaysia, without insurance).
Innova upgrades
Like the Fortuner, the Innova 2.0X and 2.0G variants now have Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as standard along with the new and larger 9-inch display for its infotainment system. This will make viewing of information as well as operation much easier.
The Blind Spot Monitor system (BSM) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert system (RCTA) are available as an option to owners. These two active safety systems can help to reduce collisions with other vehicles which may not be visible to the driver in certain circumstances.
Customers can also include optional Digital Video Recorders (DVRs) at both the front and rear of the cabin (pictured below) . By ordering them prior to purchase, installation can be done at UMWT’s own Accessories Centre. Furthermore, the cost of the accessories can be included in the total financing package.
There are 3 variants of the latest Innova to choose from, all powered by an efficient and proven 2.0-litre petrol engine. The variants are the Innova 2.0X A/T, Innova 2.0G A/T and Innova 2.0 E A/T. There are no price changes for the MPV.
More information on the latest models can be found at toyota.com.my or by calling the Toyota freephone line 1-800-8-TOYOTA (869682).
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“Avoid using middlemen, deal only with PUSPAKOM officials!”
That’s the message which the vehicle inspection company wants to get across to the public during its campaign entitled “PUSPAKOM Ready to Help!“. The program will be on at selected PUSPAKOM branches throughout the country from August 19 until October 2, 2019, 9 am to 4 pm.
Information direct from PUSPAKOM officers
The public can obtain information on all vehicle inspection matters from authorised and authoritative sources as PUSPAKOM officers will be on hand to answer the questions. The aim of the campaign is to prevent incidents of vehicle owners being misled by unscrupulous middlemen (not authorised by PUSPAKOM) who have been known to give incorrect information about the vehicle inspections.
“The campaign is intended to provide customers with understanding and knowledge on vehicle inspection services offered by PUSPAKOM so that they can deal directly with PUSPAKOM and not through middlemen. Often, PUSPAKOM receives feedback where customers prefer to use a middleman because they do not understand the vehicle inspection process. This is an important campaign for PUSPAKOM to provide correct and factual information,” said PUSPAKOM’s CEO, Shukor Ismail.
Middlemen may cheat on promise of ‘sure pass’
He added: “We hope customers understand the process and information of what goes on during an inspection at PUSPAKOM before they choose to use a middleman service. This is because some customers who use the middleman service have been paid a high service charge and even been cheated on the promise of a ‘sure pass’,” Encik Shukor revealed, adding that PUSPAKOM charges only between RM20 to RM90, depending on the type of inspection and vehicle.
Naturally, PUSPAKOM carries out its inspections professionally and with full integrity so there would be no such thing as ‘sure pass’ if the vehicle fails to meet any test standards. This is especially crucial when it comes to tests on safety systems and no compromises are permitted.
In addition to the advisory services provided, PUSPAKOM officers can also assist clients in managing the MyPUSPAKOM online registration and how to use it. There is also the recently introduced e-wallet service available for those who wish to use it.
During the program, there will also be other activities and customers will receive a free exam handbook. There will also be a ‘Wheel of Fortune’ and ‘Mix & Match’ games with exciting prizes to be won.
For more information, call PUSPAKOM’s toll-free number 1-800-88-6927 or use the private message channels on the company’s official Facebook page. There is also a Live Chat service at www.puspakom.com.my.
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