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BIKES: Next Bike Unleashes New Ducati Panigale V4 & V4 S, Multistrada 1260 S And Monster 821!

Next Bike Sdn Bhd, official distributor of the Ducati brand in Malaysia today unveiled three high performance and stylish bikes to Malaysians; the Ducati Panigale V4 & V4 S, Multistrada 1260 S and Monster 821! “Incorporating the essence of Italian style, Ducati motorcycles are engineered with performance and endurance in mind which makes it suitable for riding on the various Malaysian roads. From the congested city roads to the long winding roads leading to the outskirts, Ducati motorcycles are built to withstand most road conditions,” said Dato’ Samson Anand George, (below, right) Group CEO, Automotive Group, Naza Corporation Holdings.

“As the official distributor of the premium Ducati brand in Malaysia, Naza places high importance on our customers’ interests and value for money experience. We are always looking for opportunities to reward our loyal customers with exclusive offers and promotions,” he added.

Ducati Panigale V4 –Versatile and Made for the Track…

The Ducati Panigale V4 marks an important milestone in the Ducati brand’s history as a “symphony” of all-Italian performance and emotion, being the first mass-produced Ducati bike to mount a four-cylinder engine. The superbike was derived directly from the MotoGP Desmosedici, developed in close collaboration with Ducati Corse by drawing directly on know-how and technology from the racing world to provide a road bike closest to its MotoGP counterpart.

Elegant, muscular and equipped with cutting-edge technology, the Panigale V4 is the epitome of Italian sports elegance with a completely new design enhanced from its predecessors, built for both excellent on-track performance and outstanding on-road ridability. Combining the alluring “Panigale” tag and the “V4” designation, the new exclusive superbike indicates the start of a whole new era for the Ducati brand.

The Panigale V4 tops the Ducati supersport range with its enhanced performance and rider-friendliness – riders of all skill levels can experience boundless fun and excitement on the bike. Powered by the new Desmosedici Stradale engine, just like the Desmosedici GP, the Panigale V4 is the most powerful bike in its segment with a maximum of 214 hp at 13,000 rpm with a power/weight ratio of 1:1, and has a torque of 12.6 Kgm at 10,000 rpm which makes it easy to handle. Its engine is the only one in the sports segment with a 90º V configuration and uses a counter-rotating crankshaft and twin pulse ignition which contributes to the agility of the superbike when making a change in direction, while ensuring easier out-of-the-corner torque handling.

Equipped with state-of-the-art control electronics, the new Panigale V4 sets a new performance benchmark with raised vehicle safety and dynamics control standards as it uses the latest generation six-axis inertial platform data (6D IMU). Other extensive safety features include controlled slides during braking, front wheel ABS Cornering designed for track riding and Quickshift Up & Down (DQS) that tackles lean angles. With a variety of accessories and performance parts packages for upgrade solutions available, the Ducati Panigale V4 starts at RM129,900 and the V4 S starts at RM169,900.

Ducati Multistrada 1260 S – Ultimate Touring Companion…

First launched in 2010, the Multistrada was the start of a new revolution in the motorcycling world by offering four bikes in one; from sport bike to long-distance tourer, from everyday runabout to enduro. With its many new features and Riding Modes, the Ducati Multistrada 1260 S brings a whole new level of performance, greater usability, control, comfort and fun.

Maximising the concept of versatility, the Ducati Multistrada 1260 S was made for touring the urban and rural Malaysian landscapes. Equipped with a new engine, chassis and cutting-edge electronics, its performance and control is significantly improved when riding in any condition and on any road. The heart of the Ducati Multistrada 1260 S is the new Euro 4 approved 1262 cc Ducati Testastretta DVT engine which gives ample low-to-mid range torque. The super bike is now even more pleasurable for everyday use as it offers the highest torque output in its class at 4,000 rpm – the most frequently used average rotation rate when riding. To further enhance its power delivery, the bike also comes complete with the new Ride-by-Wire system to ensure smoother throttle control and Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) Up & Down which significantly improves the riding experience.

The Ducati Multistrada 1260 S was ergonomically designed to ensure comfort during travels. Donning a new chassis with a longer swing arm and new shape at the front end, the rider can easily tackle curves while ensuring maximum stability at full load. The versatile superbike is also equipped with the revolutionary Bosch IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) platform which controls Cornering ABS, Ducati Cornering Lights and Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) with highly revered semi-active Ducati Skyhook suspension (DSS) Evolution control system and Vehicle Hold Control that ensures easy and safe uphill starts. The Ducati Multistrada 1260 S is priced at RM129,900 (red) and RM130,900 (grey).

Ducati Monster 821 – Perfect for the Sporty and Adventurous Urbanites…

The Ducati Monster 821 is the heir to the iconic Monster 900 at the Cologne Motor Show in 1992. With an impressive upgrade, the new Monster 821 embodies the essence of naked sport feel, agility and power, and combines perfect performance with outstanding rider-friendliness, ideal for manoeuvering through the congested Malaysian traffic.

Characterised by the iconic Monster design, the Monster 821’s volumes, silhouette, tank and classic headlight are true to the original lines of its 1993 predecessor but revisited with a modern flair. Similar to the original Monster, the iconic tank also comes with a fastening hook. For the first time on the mid-size Monster, the bike also comes with the colour TFT display with selected gear and fuel indicators. Engineered to deliver a maximum power of 109 hp at 9,250 rpm, the Ducati Monster 821 is equipped with the Euro 4 compliant liquid-cooled Testastretta 11º engine with 8.8 kgm of torque at 7,750 rpm for high performance and agility.

The Monster 821 conveys pleasant riding sensations without compromising its safety with the Ducati Safety Pack consisting of Bosch ABS and Ducati Traction Control. For maximum safety, the Ducati Monster 821 also comes with three Riding Modes which allow for easy adjustment of ABS DTC and Power Modes, letting riders transform the bike into three different motorcycles personalities. The bike also features Brembo brakes with dual 320 mm discs and M4-32 monobloc radial callipers up front, and a refined suspension system with adjustable shock absorber at the rear. The Ducati Monster 821 is available in two colour variants; Ducati Red and the Classic Ducati Yellow – a Monster fan favourite, and is priced at RM65,900 and RM66,900 respectively.

The Ducati Panigale V4 variants, Multistrada 1260 S and Monster 821 are now available for viewing. Ducati fans may visit the nearest authorised Ducati dealership for more enquiries and test rides. To further enhance the premium after-sales experience for owners, Ducati offers the Ducati Smart Service Program, a two-year free service for parts and lubricants, or up to 30,000km including Desmodromic service. This free service program is additional to the current two-year unlimited mileage warranty and is available at all authorised Ducati dealerships nationwide.

Honda Malaysia bekerjasama dengan Kementerian Pendidikan dalam peningkatan latihan teknikal

Honda Malaysia baru sahaja menandatangani sijil kerjasama (C0C) dengan Jabatan Politeknik dan Pendidikan Kolej Komuniti bersama Kementerian Pendidikan dalam menggabungkan modul latihan Honda dalam program latihan automotif. (more…)

Naza Italia Introduces Updated Maserati Levante Ahead Of 2019 Debut!

Maserati’s remarkably successful SUV, the Levante, is now available to the Malaysian market as an updated 2019 version. The MY19 (Model Year 2019) range has inherited new contents, which enhance its “Gran Turismo” character and set the Levante at the top of its class in terms of outright performance, driving dynamics and exclusivity. For the Malaysian market, Naza Italia, the official importer and distributor for Maserati, will be offering the petrol-powered Maserati Levante S with GranSport and GranLusso trims, with prices starting at RM788,800.

The MY19 range introduces a high-end interpretation of the Levante. Enhancements made in the Levante S include the adoption of a redesigned gearshift lever with shorter travel and improved operation. The GranSport trim presents a distinct styling theme with new front and rear bumpers that were inspired by the Levante GTS and Trofeo. For the Malaysian market, the Levante S version features 21-inch Helios wheels and a High Glass Metal Weave interior trim.

SM Nasarudin Tan Sri SM Nasimuddin, Group Executive Chairman of NAZA Corporation Holdings Sdn Bhd said, “Following Maserati’s entry into the SUV segment, the Levante has exceeded expectations and continues to be a leader in its class. Naza Italia is delighted to offer our discerning customers the latest evolution of the Levante, which sports a number of attractive enhancements. Whether customers opt for the luxury-oriented GranLusso trim or the sport-oriented GranSport trim, the Levante S promises them a first-class environment.”

The powertrain remains untouched in this version, which means the SUV still features a forceful 430hp 3-litre twin turbo V6 engine. Designed by Maserati Powertrain in cooperation with Ferrari, the engine is manufactured by Ferrari in Maranello and is both powerful and eco-friendly, thanks to the Auto Start-Stop function. The twin-turbo V6 petrol driven engine is capable of 430bhp and 580Nm of torque. Its specific torque of 194 Nm per litre is the best in the luxury SUV class, as is its specific power (144hp/l). The Levante S accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds and has a top speed of 264 km/h.

The design concept of the Levante combines coupé lines with interior space for five people and exceptional aerodynamic efficiency. The Maserati of SUVs is instantly recognisable from a distance, thanks to its imposing grille, which was inspired by the sensational Alfieri concept, but also pays homage to historic Maserati cars like the Tipo 60 Birdcage. The silhouette flows along the side of the car from the feline headlights to the characteristic Maserati rear pillar, creating a coupé look that is enhanced by frameless doors – a characteristic feature of modern Maserati cars. The muscular shape of the rear haunches underscores the car’s genuinely Italian style.

In the newly enhanced Levante S, this unmistakable design has reached new levels of sportiness with the restyling of the GranSport exterior. The elegant, sport-oriented restyling is focused on the lower front fascia and the rear bumper. Alongside the sportier bumpers, the GranSport exterior is also discernible for the front and rear Black Piano inserts, the GranSport badges on the front fenders, the red brake calipers and the 21-inch Helios wheels. While the exterior of the baseline V6 versions remains the same, the characteristic features of the luxury-oriented GranLusso trim are elegant chrome inserts in the front fascia, chrome front/rear skid plates, body colour rear spoiler, silver-painted brake calipers, 21-inch Helios alloy wheels and GranLusso badges on the fenders.

The GranLusso trim also offers the choice of full premium Italian leather, Pieno Fiore natural leather or Ermenegildo Zegna silk upholstery. It includes standard 12-way power comfort front seats with memory function, Bowers and Wilkins Surround Sound System, power-adjustable steering wheel and pedals, illuminated door-sills, parking sensors, navigation system and Soft Close Doors system. The MY19 Levante S is fitted with a new gearshift lever for the eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox used on all Levante versions. The redesigned component features an intuitive, dual lane shift pattern providing shorter travel and improved functionality.

The driver has the option to use the gearbox in either automatic (RND) or manual mode (M) simply by shifting the lever from right to left, while a new ‘P’ button on top sets the transmission in parking mode. With the new gearshift lever, the driving modes cluster on the center console is even more user-friendly. The M button has been eliminated and the Off-Road mode button has taken its place leaving space for two separate buttons – instead of one – for the selection of the Sport driving mode and the Skyhook suspension sport setting. The selectable modes are Off-Road, I.C.E. (Increased Control & Efficiency) and Sport.

The eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox ensures exceptional comfort, low fuel consumption and reduced noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). By default, the car is set to Auto Normal mode, which offers the right balance between ride comfort, reduced consumption and sportiness, performing smooth gear changes at low engine speeds. In Off-Road mode, when the driver selects a chosen speed the car continues at this pace, even when climbing. This is extremely useful on a challenging climb, as the car will effectively drive itself, with the driver only having to manage the steering wheel. In Auto Off-Road mode the transmission recognises the different types of terrain, interacts with the ESP and alters its shifting response accordingly. In I.C.E. mode, gearshifts are almost unnoticeable, providing unrivalled driving comfort.

The MY19 Levante S has a spacious cabin that blends innovative solutions, such as the state-of-the art infotainment system that has been mildly tweaked with improved display graphics and more user-friendly climate-control functions. The button that deactivates the Start-Stop function can now be dragged and dropped on the main screen so you can access it in every menu. The electric panorama sunroof with tilt and slide functionality comes as standard for all MY19 Levante S variants offered in Malaysia.

There is a palette of eleven colours in the MY19 catalogue only for the V6 Levante versions, with a brand-new tri-coat colour, the Blu Nobile with sparkling glass flakes glimmering under the sunlight. The matt grey-by-default calipers on the baseline Levante V6 versions are painted silver on the GranLusso. The Levante GranSport is standard fitted with red painted calipers. A wide range of colours with the Maserati logo is available as an option. The recently introduced Nerissimo package, has also been updated for the MY19 Levante.

It is now available in eight specific body colours – seven of which are brand new – combining black elements (front grille, skid plates, daylight openings and door mirrors) with dark tail lights and exhaust tips. Details such as the grille upper bezel trim, the rear trunk accent, the side air vents, the Trident on grille and all Maserati badges and logos are finished in Black Chrome. The updated MY19 Nerissimo package has also adopted body-colour door handles and lower moldings and new 21-inch wheels with dark finish.

The Levante S MY19 enters Malaysia’s luxury SUV segment at the starting price of MYR 788,800.00 (inclusive of local taxes and duties) and includes 3 years Standard Warranty coverage with no mileage restriction plus a *Maserati Premium Service Plus of 3 years/60,000 km whichever comes first. The public is invited to head over to Naza Italia’s showroom in Petaling Jaya to view and test drive the Levante and speak with Naza Italia’s sales team in greater detail about Maserati’s newest offering. For the Specifications sheet, click to download this: Press Release_Maserati Levante MY19

Follow @maserati.malaysia (Instagram) and www.facebook/maserati.malaysia for the brand’s latest updates in Malaysia.

BIKES: Are You Rough Enough? Moto Guzzi V7III Rough Launched In Malaysia!

DIDI Resources is proud to introduce the new V7 III Rough in Malaysia at RM75,000 with a limited no of units at a special introductory price of RM69,900. The units are available for viewing at our dealership at the Gasket Alley in Petaling Jaya and Sheng Fatt in Penang.

To pay tribute to the upcoming Distinguished Gentlemen’s Ride 2018, we recently had the honour of Mr Simone Niccolai, Managing Director of Asia Pacific 2Wheeler, Piaggio Asia Pacific to dress up for the upcoming occasion (concept attire by Tiga Supply Co) to unveil the new V7 III Rough in Malaysia together with the management of DIDI Resources and Stronghold Cycles (the official dealer for Moto Guzzi at The Gasket Alley).

The V7 is one of the most celebrated and well-known Moto Guzzi models. This world fame is due to its ability to remain faithful to the expectations and reputation of a legendary brand like Moto Guzzi. Since 1967, the year the first units were sold in Italy, the V7 became a pillar of the product range and the representative of the Italian motorcycle par excellence, standing out for its content and design, highly popular with a transversal and varied public.

More than fifty years from the launch of the first unit, Moto Guzzi V7 III is the third act of a unique story. The challenge of introducing the V7 III was one of the most difficult, considering the emblem and the success of the V7. From 2009 it has also been the brand’s best selling model and constitutes the entry level bike for the Moto Guzzi world.

The Moto Guzzi V7 III Rough is priced at RM 75,000 with limited introduction units at RM69,900 and can be viewed at The Gasket Alley, Petaling Jaya and Sheng Fatt, Penang. For the full info on the Moto Guzzi V7III Rough, click to download this: Press Release V7III Rough.

(Specifications after the photo gallery below)

Moto Guzzi V7 III: Technical Specifications

Displacement Bore Travel Distribution	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. 1445 mm 106 mm 26.4°
Front suspension Travel:	Ø 40 mm hydraulic telescopic fork 130 mm
Rear suspension Travel:	die cast light alloy swingarm with 2 shock absorbers with adjustable spring preload (Öhlins fully adjustable for Racer) 93 mm (80 mm shock absorber stroke)
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 (spoked for Special/Racer/Rough) 100/90 (110/80 R18 as alternative)
Rear wheel	17″ in lightweight alloy (spoked for Special/Racer/Rough) 130/80
Saddle height Length Height Minimum ground clearance	770 mm 2,185 mm 1,100 mm 150 mm
Fuel tank capacity	21 litres (including 4 litre reserve)
Kerb weight	189 kg (Special, Milano 193 kg)
Kerb weight*	209 kg (Special, Milano 213 kg)
	* Weight with motorcycle ready for use with all operating fluids and with 90% fuel.
Consumption (WMTC cycle)	5.5 l/100 km (Racer 5.7 l/100 km)
CO2 Emissions (WMTC cycle)	128 g/km (Racer 132 g/km)

Proton In 2018 – Part 16: New Proton X70 SUV Previews Begin!

After months of building anticipation, the first-ever PROTON SUV – the Proton X70 – has finally had its public debut as PROTON Edar Sdn Bhd kicked-off its programme of exclusive customer previews in Petaling Jaya, from 19 – 23 September 2018. Customers, C-level executives from prominent corporations as well as potential corporate buyers were invited to see the interior and exterior design of the SUV, which is the first PROTON product to enter the rapidly growing market segment. Such a product is deserving of a luxury themed event, which is why the Company decided to present the X70 in a modern, sophisticated yet luxurious setting. (See more of the X70 here)

“Since bookings were opened on 8 September, the response from our customers has been overwhelming. The Proton X70 scales new heights for the Company with its modern and sophisticated design so we are organising previews to allow customers to get a closer look to understand the level of engineering and feel the premium materials we have used in this SUV. It goes without saying PROTON is very excited about our new model and we hope, after the preview, customers will feel the same way too,” said Abdul Rashid Musa, Chief Executive Officer, PROTON Edar.

An exciting design story…

As was the case with the media preview, attendees to the X70 preview are treated to a comprehensive presentation on the exterior and interior design elements of the first model to come from the collaboration between PROTON and Geely. Drawing inspiration from the feline form, the exterior is sculpted with explosive energetic lines that references the family of big cats, especially the Malayan Tiger, which is why it conveys a sense of explosive forward momentum. The link to the majestic animal is further strengthened by the headlamps, featuring daytime running lights (DRL) that create a distinctive pair of ‘eyes’, making the SUV recognisable in any driving environment.

Further Malaysian inspired touches can be found in the grille that features a shape inspired by a bow to deliver an identifiable presence that also captures a sense of agility, speed and lightness. Proudly displayed in the middle of the distinctive grille is a large PROTON badge, framed by three black horizontal bars. Closer inspection reveal the bars have distinctive repeating patterns called the ‘Infinite Weave’ that is inspired by Malaysian craftsmanship and our rich natural heritage.

The same Infinite Weave pattern is carried over to the interior and presented in strategic locations that don’t stand out but subtly remind buyers of the Malaysian heritage contained in the X70. Luxurious nappa leather seat covers, high tech user interface systems and metallic accents combine to create an inviting and modern space that stylistically, is soothing to the senses.

Customer opinions and first impressions…

During the preview, customers shared their experiences and opinions on the Proton X70. The general consensus is, this is the best Proton model yet with many impressed by the design and features for the estimated price range. Mr Darren Ho, General Manager of Hong Leong Bank Berhad said, “I think the car is simply amazing and impressive, from the whole design development as a Malaysian car and also a car that will represent Malaysia to the world, I think it’s really great. Great looking inside out and the features are impressive too.”

“The best of PROTON that I have seen. Well done to the team in PROTON. I think this is the best car that PROTON has ever produced so far with the best design so it is going to be a hit in the market,” said En. Marizan Nor Basiran, Chief Technical Officer of WZ Satu Berhad. “The car is very impressive and it’s one of the new models introduced by PROTON that can be sold globally,” said En. Makhzan Hussein, Assistant General Manager of Bank Islam Malaysia Berhad.

“Outstanding! To be honest, I have never been a big fan of PROTON but after this preview, the X70 is really an eye opener; the design, the safety and other features are really impressive,” said engineer, Shaun Lin Jern Ming Adding to this statement, Shaun estimated the price range to be around RM140,000 – RM170,000 though he hoped it would be lower than that.

Previews across Malaysia…

The exclusive customer preview sessions that kicked off on 19 September are the first in a series of events spanning seven Malaysian cities that will run until 4 November. The sessions began in the Central with events in Penang, Johor Bahru, Kuching, Kuantan, Ipoh and Kota Kinabalu to follow.

“We plan to reach nearly 6,000 potential buyers through the preview sessions and while that’s a small portion of the potential buyers we are targeting, it gives those who are considering the X70 a chance to view the SUV so that they can make a decision. Spaces are limited so anybody who wants to attend should visit the PROTON outlet closest to them and speak to the sales team there,” added Rashid.

UMW Toyota Announces New Variant For Its Lexus RX300 SUV

Lexus Malaysia, a division of UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd, the authorised importers and distributors of Lexus and Toyota vehicles in Malaysia, announces the availability of a new variant the popular RX300 model. This Special Edition shares the specifications and equipment of the RX300 Luxury variant but has additional accessories.

Priced from RM434,000, inclusive of SST (approximately RM10,000 more than the RX300 Luxury variant), the RX300 Special Edition has Lexus-genuine accessories which enhance its external appearance as well as provide additional functionality for motoring enjoyment. At the front end is an additional underbody panel which provides protection from stones and other objects thrown up from the road while along the sides are body mouldings which not only give enhancement to the looks but also add elegance.

The lower side mouldings are integrated with the new one-piece side steps on either side. These steps run along the bottom of the front and rear doors, providing easier movement in an out of the RX300, especially for small children and elderly people. Custom-designed visors have been installed on the tops of the windows to prevent rainwater from entering the cabin if the glass is wound down slightly. They are shaped to have minimal effect on airflow while allowing the glass to be lowered, if desired, even when there is rain.

Those who frequently use the rear cargo space will appreciate the step guard which is installed near the lower edge of the rear door opening. Covering almost the full width of the opening, it provides protection for the upper part of the rear bumper so it will not be scratched or stained when loading or unloading cargo. The Lexus philosophy is all about hospitality and this is reflected in the Welcome Door Lamp which comes on whenever the doors are opened. The lamp illuminates the area near the door so that puddles of water or potholes can be seen and avoided. Additionally, this feature also adds a touch of class with the projection of the Lexus logo on the ground.

Two other accessories included in the RX300 Special Edition are the Touch ’n Go reader/transmitter and a Digital Video Recorder (DVR). The Touch ’n Go device is compatible with Touch ’n Go toll-cards and can be used for passage through the SMART TAG lanes at toll plazas nationwide. It offers a neater solution for electronic payment of toll and can be installed inside the cabin. The DVR is a familiar accessory in many cars nowadays, providing motorists with a way to provide visual evidence in the event of an accident. Unlike the third-party accessories which are usually stuck on the windscreen, the one for the RX300 Special Edition is installed securely behind the rearview mirror.

All the accessories which come with the RX300 Special Edition are Lexus genuine accessories and meet the same high standards of quality and reliability as the rest of the vehicle. All accessory installation is done by professionally trained personnel at UMW Toyota Motor’s own Accessories Centre in Bukit Raja, Selangor. The RX model line currently on sale is the fourth generation of one of the most successful models of the brand. Six variants are available from Lexus Malaysia, with the RX300 Special Edition being the seventh. All RX300 variants are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine (8AR-FTS) which produces 235 ps & 350 Nm of torque. A 6-speed Super Electronically Controlled Transaxle (6 ECT) automatic transmission is standard along with all-wheel drive.

As with all new models sold by Lexus Malaysia, there is a comprehensive factory warranty of 5 years/Unlimited mileage (whichever comes first after original registration). Complete aftersales support is available at 7 locations in Malaysia (including one in Kuching, Sarawak) where there are professional technicians who have been extensively trained to look after Lexus vehicles.