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Mercedes-Benz USA has introduced the Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 S “Edition 1,” elevating the dynamic prowess of the AMG CLA portfolio. Limited to just 25 units for the U.S. market, this special edition model boasts unique exterior and interior design elements, along with a comprehensive suite of standard equipment. Priced at $81,195 (RM385,716), the 2024 Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 S “Edition 1” is set to arrive soon at U.S. dealerships.

The Edition 1 stands out with its Manufaktur Mountain Grey Magno paint and distinctive graphics along the vehicle’s profile, featuring the AMG logo and AMG pattern in a checkered flag design. Exclusive design accents in orange, the AMG Night Package Plus, and AMG Aerodynamics Package with a larger front splitter and rear spoiler enhance the dynamic character. Matte black 19-inch AMG cross-spoke forged wheels and red AMG Performance brake callipers provide an attractive contrast.

Inside, the Edition 1 features AMG Performance seats with black microfiber upholstery and orange stitching, offering exceptional support during dynamic driving. The integrated headrests proudly display “CLA 45 S” branding in orange. Striking accents continue to the instrument panel with orange contrast stitching, red illuminated AMG door sill panels, and Edition 1-specific red lighting. The interior is further complemented by the AMG Performance steering wheel in Nappa leather/microfibre and AMG trim elements in aluminium and black, matching the exterior graphics.

Under the hood, the Handcrafted AMG 2.0-litre turbocharged M139 engine delivers 416hp and 500Nm of torque, enabling the sporty coupe to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in just 4.0 seconds. The standard AMG Performance 4MATIC+ fully variable all-wheel drive with AMG Torque Control ensures dynamic driving performance. Equipped with two electronically controlled multi-plate clutches at the rear differential, the system allows for variable power distribution between the front and rear axles, as well as between the left and right rear wheels, further enhancing performance capabilities.

smart Malaysia has announced an exclusive 30% discount on public charging fees for smart car owners who charge and pay via the Hello smart App. This initiative, in collaboration with Charging Point Operators (CPOs), aims to enhance the ‘Balik Kampung’ experience during the holy month of Ramadan and the upcoming Hari Raya celebration. Valid from 6 to 14 April 2024, this offer provides customers with more affordable and convenient journeys.

Through the Hello smart App, users can enjoy 30% savings and access a nationwide network of charging stations with over 1,000 public charging points seamlessly integrated. They can easily locate nearby points, check station availability, and initiate charging sessions hassle-free. Additionally, partners like Gentari, JomCharge, and chargEV stations across more than 400 locations nationwide, including shopping malls, office buildings, and public parking facilities, are included in this offer.

For a personalised experience, smart car owners can visit their nearest smart dealership, equipped with dedicated charging stations. While their cars charge, owners can enjoy the dealership’s amenities, including comfortable waiting areas and refreshments. This innovative approach not only offers a convenient charging solution but also elevates the dealership experience, ensuring customers enjoy both convenience and relaxation during their visit.

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BMW Malaysia has officially opened pre-booking for the First-Ever BMW iX2 xDrive30 in the Malaysian market, introducing a versatile all-electric Sports Activity Coupe designed for various situations.

It boasts a rebellious appearance, featuring a redesigned closed BMW kidney grille with a black mesh grille and a black high-gloss kidney frame, accentuated by the BMW Kidney Iconic Glow. Adaptive LED headlights with BMW Selective beam and vertically arranged daytime running lights enhance visibility and add a contemporary design touch. The front apron is equipped with a black radiator grille in black high gloss.

Its muscular silhouette is characterised by a gently sloping roofline, M high-gloss Shadow line, and V-spoke style 873 M Bicolour 20-inch M light alloy wheels, emphasising its sportiness. The rear features LED taillights and a distinctive high-gloss black rear spoiler.

Inside, the cockpit showcases the fully digital BMW Curved Display with a 10.25-inch instrument display cluster and 10.7-inch control display, along with a BMW Head-Up Display, wireless charging tray, and Harman Kardon Hi-Fi speaker system. The interior boasts M multifunction leather steering wheel, Aluminium Hexacube Pale M interior trim, Luxury instrument panel, and “Veganza” leather-alternative upholstery with contrast stitching. Standard sport seats provide support and comfort, while the rear seats offer variable loading with a 40:20:40 split.

Powered by one electric motor per axle, the iX2 xDrive30 delivers a system output of 313hp and a WLTP range of up to 449km from its 66.5 kWh high-voltage battery. It accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in 5.6 seconds and has a maximum speed of 180km/h. The car features upgraded stabiliser bearings, Adaptive M Suspension, M Sport Steering, and M Sports Brakes for enhanced driving dynamics.

Charging technology allows for quick and convenient charging, with a maximum charging power of 130kW at a High-Power Charging station and 11kW via AC charging. The BMW Curved Display is powered by BMW Operating System 9, offering advanced connectivity and intelligent systems.

The First-Ever BMW iX2 xDrive30 is available in a range of exterior colours and upholstery options. It comes with comprehensive financial plans from BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia and a complete ownership experience, including a 5-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Scheduled Service Programme, 8-Year / 160,000 km Battery Warranty, BMW Roadside Assistance, BMW Service Online, and BMW Service & Repair Inclusive.

The recommended retail pricing for the First-Ever BMW iX2 xDrive30 is RM 282,800.00 (on the road, without insurance).

The Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) Central Zone recently confiscated a Land Rover Range Rover SV Auto luxury car at the MasKargo Complex, Free Commercial Zone (FCZ), Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). The car, valued at nearly RM2 million, was seized due to its absence of an import permit (AP).

Norlela Ismail, Assistant Director General of Customs for the Selangor Central Zone, disclosed that customs officers inspected the car at around 4 pm at the complex. Suspicions arose regarding its importation without an AP from the Ministry of Trade and Industry Investment (MITI).

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Nissan recently unveiled a bold strategy aiming to introduce 30 new vehicles globally within the next three years, with seven of these vehicles destined for the U.S. market. This ambitious plan also emphasises strengthened collaboration with partners, particularly within the Renault Nissan Mitsubishi Alliance.

Collaboration with Mitsubishi is set to yield several new vehicles for North America, including a jointly developed 1-ton pickup truck manufactured in Mexico. While it remains unclear if this pickup is part of the seven vehicles slated for launch in the U.S., producing it in Mexico would circumvent steep tariffs, potentially facilitating its sale in the American market.

Initially, the new pickup is expected to feature petrol engines, but there are considerations for future versions to incorporate plug-in hybrid and electric powertrains. Nissan and Mitsubishi have separately hinted at their work on electric trucks, with Nissan unveiling the Surf-Out electric truck concept in 2021.

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Hyundai is venturing into the realm of electric professional racing with the introduction of the Ioniq 5 N eN1 Cup car, a high-performance version of the Ioniq 5 electric SUV specially designed for competitive racing.

The Ioniq 5 N eN1 Cup car underwent significant modifications to meet the demands of professional racing. Its front end features a new design with a larger lip and prominent dive planes, while new over-fenders enhance its aerodynamics. A massive rear wing adds to the car’s racing aesthetic and downforce capabilities.

To reduce weight, Hyundai made several adjustments. The Cup car sheds weight by replacing heavy components with lighter alternatives. This includes swapping the bulky 21-inch wheels for lightweight 18-inch forged wheels fitted with motorsport slicks. Glass windows are replaced with lighter polycarbonate versions, and the hood is replaced with a fibreglass-reinforced plastic one. This allowed the weight to drop from 2222kg to 1973kg.

Inside, the interior is stripped down to essentials, with unnecessary features removed. The car retains only a single bucket seat for the driver, along with an FIA-compliant roll cage and fire extinguishers for safety.

Despite the weight reduction, the powertrain remains unchanged. The dual motors deliver the same 641hp as the road car, drawing power from the standard 84.0 kWh battery. The car retains the rapid charging capability of the standard model, allowing for a charge from 10-80 per cent in just 18 minutes.

The eN1 Cup car incorporates adjustable suspension with two-way dampers and a high-voltage shutoff for enhanced performance and safety. Hyundai also introduces the e-Shift programming from the Ioniq 5 N, adding a unique element to the driving experience with simulated torque interruptions during gear changes.

The eN1 Cup car will make its racing debut at the Inje Speedium circuit in South Korea on April 27, participating in the inaugural eN1 series. This new racing series features open regulations, allowing teams to choose their tyres, and offers a mix of one-on-one knockout races and traditional sprint races for diverse competition styles.

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