Home - Piston.my

Mini Malaysia Introduces the New Mini Family, New Mini Cooper SE Launched

Mini Malaysia announces the arrival of the New Mini Family. Unveiled at the New Mini Family Launch Event, four new models epitomise the brand’s new design language, “Charismatic Simplicity,” and include two fully electrified vehicles, marking a significant stride towards emission-free urban mobility.

Highlights from the Launch Event

The New Mini Family Launch Event featured the Malaysian debut of the New Mini Cooper SE, the latest all-electric member of the Mini lineup. This model continues the legacy of the iconic Mini Cooper, known for its quintessential charm and modernised design. Also showcased were three other new-generation Mini models, previewed at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024: the New All-Electric Mini Countryman SE ALL4, the New Mini John Cooper Works (JCW) Countryman ALL4, and the New Mini Cooper S.

New Mini Cooper SE: Classic Charm, Modern Performance

The New Mini Cooper SE, the star of the event, boasts a puristic design honouring the brand’s heritage. It features a striking octagonal front grille with intricate contouring and houses the smallest radar sensor among all BMW Group models. LED headlights with high-beam assistant offer three distinct light signatures and unique welcome/goodbye animations. The side profile showcases short overhangs, a short bonnet, and a long wheelbase, creating an athletic silhouette. Minimalistic design elements like flush door openers and the absence of traditional side scuttles emphasise the vehicle’s modernity, complemented by 18-inch Night Flash spoke 2-tone wheels.

Interior Excellence: A Focus on Essentials

Inside, the New Mini Cooper SE focuses on essentials with high-quality, cleverly designed components. The driver is greeted by a three-spoke sport steering wheel in Vescin and a dashboard featuring a two-tone houndstooth pattern. A 9.2-inch full LCD high-definition instrument cluster, a 10-inch full-colour head-up display, and a 12.8-inch central control screen form the cabin’s centrepiece. The interior also includes Mini Experience Modes, a Harman Kardon surround sound system, Vescin sport seats, electric seat adjustment with memory, and an ergonomically redesigned centre console.

Performance and Range

The New Mini Cooper SE delivers 218hp and 330Nm of torque, accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 6.7 seconds, with a top speed of 170km/h. Its gross battery capacity of 54.2 kWh ensures a zero-emissions range of 387 to 402km on a single charge. The battery can be charged with an 11 kW AC charger or up to 95 kW DC charging, reaching 80% in under 30 minutes.

Safety and Digital Advancements

Safety features include the Driving Assistant and Parking Assistant Plus, providing comprehensive driver assistance systems. The Mini Interaction Unit visualises all driver assistance functions in real time. The new Mini Operating System 9 and Mini Intelligent Personal Assistant enhance the digital experience, offering voice-controlled navigation and vehicle functions. The Mini App provides additional functions like Remote 3D View, Remote Engine Start, MyTrips, and e-mobility features. The Mini Digital Key Plus transforms a smartphone into a vehicle key.

Colours and Variants

The New Mini Cooper SE is available in Blazing Blue, Nanuq White, Chili Red II, Legend Grey, Sunny Side Yellow, Midnight Black II, British Racing Green, and Melting Silver. The New Mini Cooper S comes in Ocean Wave Green, Legend Grey, Nanuq White, and Chili Red, with a Black and Grey interior featuring blue textile inserts. The New Mini Countryman SE offers colors like Smokey Green, Legend Grey, Nanuq White, Melting Silver, Blazing Blue, and Chili Red, with interior options in Vintage Brown or Dark Petrol. The New Mini JCW Countryman is available in Legend Grey, Nanuq White, Melting Silver, and Midnight Black, with JCW Black upholstery.

Price:

Cooper SE: RM193,888

Countryman SE: RM258,888

Cooper S: RM279,888

JCW Countryman: RM389,888

Mini JCW Countryman ALL4

Mini Countryman SE ALL4

New Mini Cooper S

smart #3 Officially Launched From RM175,000

smart Malaysia has officially launched the highly anticipated #3 with an event-themed ‘Chase the Thrill,’ aiming to ignite excitement for this stylish and performance-driven vehicle.

The smart #3 has already received international acclaim, winning both the iF Design Award and the Red Dot Design Award, highlighting its exceptional design quality and innovation from the Mercedes-Benz global design team.

Available in various configurations, including the top-of-the-line Brabus version, the smart #3 offers impressive performance capabilities. The Premium and Pro variants feature a single rear-wheel-drive motor producing 268hp and 343Nm of torque. Accelerating from 0-100km/h in 5.8 seconds, it reaches a top speed of 180km/h.

For enthusiasts seeking even more power, the Smart #3 Brabus boasts a twin-motor setup generating 422hp and 543Nm of torque. It accelerates from 0-100km/h in just 3.7 seconds, also topping out at 180km/h.

Equipped with a front MacPherson and rear five-link suspension, the #3 delivers enhanced controllability and precise steering response, ensuring a flexible driving experience. The AWD variant includes thicker stabiliser bars that minimise body roll and improve cornering capabilities.

Charging options vary across models, with higher-spec variants supporting up to 22kW AC and 150kW DC charging. The base “Pro” model offers 7kW AC and up to 130kW DC charging. These charging options provide driving ranges of 455km for the Premium and 415km for the Brabus variant and 325km for the Pro.

With aerodynamic enhancements contributing to its 0.27 ultra-low drag coefficient, the #3 achieves a 15km longer driving range compared to its predecessor, the #1. These optimisations include aerodynamic rims, front and rear wheel wind deflectors, an active air intake grille, and wind blade air curtains.

Inside, the smart intelligent cockpit features a multi-function leather steering wheel, turbine-style air vents, and sporty seats with integrated headrests and ventilation (available in Brabus and Premium variants). The cabin is equipped with a 9.2-inch full LCD high-definition instrument cluster, a 10-inch full-color head-up display, and a central 12.8-inch control screen.

Reflecting the vehicle’s sportiness and speed, smart Malaysia has introduced a cheetah as the AI partner for the #3, replacing the fox from the smart #1. For premium audio enthusiasts, the Brabus and Premium variants offer a 13-speaker Beats sound system. Additional features include a 64-colour dual-zone ambient lighting system, wireless charging with four USB ports, and a centre console with a chiller.

The pricing for the smart #3 starts at RM175,000 for the Pro, RM215,000 for the Premium and RM255,000 for the top of the line Brabus variant.

Standard warranty includes 8-year 200,000km high voltage battery warranty, 8-year 150,000km high voltage component warranty, 4-year unlimited mileage vehicle warranty, 2-year unlimited mileage spare parts warranty, 24/7 roadside service assistance.

Additionally, there is a launch package with an all inclusive premium ownership that consists of complimentary smart home charger (22kw) worth RM3,200 with 2-year warranty, complimentary accessories package of 6-item worth RM2,500, complimentary V2L (vehicle to load) adaptor worth RM800 with 2 year warranty and 5 year internet data of total 60GB.

Brabus

Premium

Pro

Subaru Reveals “Project Midnight” WRX: A 670hp Monster!

Subaru Motorsports USA today officially revealed “Project Midnight,” the fastest and most powerful WRX ever built, set to make its debut at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed from July 11-14. Inspired by the record-breaking “Airslayer” Gymkhana car, Project Midnight is designed with a singular focus on achieving outright speed, further pushing the boundaries of the WRX platform.

Building on the legacy of Airslayer, which was based on a 2020 Subaru WRX STI and gained fame for its viral stunts in Gymkhana 2020, Project Midnight takes performance to new heights. Airslayer’s notable achievements included a 230-foot jump with active rear wing control, setting records at events like the Mt. Washington Hillclimb and Car & Driver Magazine’s Lightning Lap. However, Airslayer was a versatile performer built for various challenges. Project Midnight, in contrast, is reimagined for pure tarmac speed, piloted by the experienced Subaru Motorsports USA driver Scott Speed, known for his diverse racing background from Formula 1 to rallycross.

(more…)

Government Diesel Subsidies Remain a Burden Despite Rationalisation

Despite efforts to rationalise diesel subsidies, the government continues to shoulder a substantial burden, amounting to RM10 billion annually, as disclosed by the Finance Ministry in a parliamentary written reply.

Breakdown of Subsidies

According to NST, the ministry revealed that this annual subsidy includes RM4 billion earmarked for the public transport and logistics sectors. Diesel prices are maintained at RM1.88 per litre for 10 types of public transport vehicles and RM2.15 per litre for 23 types of logistics vehicles.

In addition, RM3.3 billion is allocated for diesel users in Sabah and Sarawak, who benefit from the RM2.15 per litre rate. Fishermen receive RM1.2 billion in subsidies, with diesel priced at RM1.65 per litre. Another RM1.8 billion is provided through the cash assistance programmes Budi Individu and Budi Agri-Komoditi.

(more…)

Bugatti W16 Mistral Enters Final Testing Phase

The Bugatti W16 Mistral marks a significant milestone as the first open-top model from the brand since 2015 and the swan song for the legendary W16 engine. This car is now entering its final evaluation phase, underscoring Bugatti’s relentless pursuit of excellence and performance.

An Engineering Marvel

At the core of the Mistral lies the ultimate iteration of the W16 engine, complemented by meticulously refined aerodynamic features and a completely reengineered monocoque. Achieving a top speed exceeding 420km/h while maintaining unparalleled performance, acoustic excellence, and luxury is a feat of engineering precision.

Bugatti’s dedication to the highest standards of performance, safety, and durability has driven an exhaustive testing program for the Mistral. Every aspect of its design has been rigorously evaluated to create Bugatti’s ultimate roadster.

Stringent Safety and Performance Testing

The Mistral has successfully undergone stringent crash tests, ensuring occupant protection in the event of a collision. These tests, essential for homologation in various markets, comply with international safety standards for North America and Europe.

Following aerodynamic evaluations in October and rigorous dynamometer testing of the W16 engine and transmission, Bugatti is now conducting a series of tests to assess the Mistral’s performance under various driving conditions. These tests cover safety, emissions, endurance, and drivability.

Endurance and Durability

The road tests for the Mistral are comprehensive, with Prototype 2 having already covered 32,000 km. These tests span diverse terrains, from high altitudes to sea level, and heavy traffic conditions. Looking ahead, Bugatti plans to add another 5,000 km on the track, pushing the total distance to 40,000 km – a milestone not often reached by modern Bugatti customer cars.

One of the most challenging aspects of the testing process is verifying the Mistral’s top speed. Finding a suitable track to safely reach over 420 km/h presents a logistical challenge. However, Bugatti remains confident in the Mistral’s ability to break records and exceed expectations.

A New Benchmark

“We are planning to run the final high-speed test on one of the few tracks worldwide that allow us to run the test safely. Once we have access to that track, achieving the top speed will no longer be a problem,” said Emilio Scervo, CTO of Bugatti Rimac.

Bugatti’s commitment throughout the Mistral’s development has been to deliver a car that not only meets but exceeds performance standards. The W16 Mistral sets new benchmarks for safety, reliability, and luxury in a hyper sports roadster. With the Mistral nearing the end of its testing journey, production at the Molsheim Atelier is expected to begin later this year.

Rimac Unveils Limited 15th Anniversary Edition Nevera Hypercar

In a monumental celebration of its 15-year journey, Rimac Automobili has revealed the exclusive 15th Anniversary Edition of the Nevera, a hypercar that redefined the limits of electric performance. Only nine bespoke examples of this record-breaking vehicle will be produced, each meticulously crafted to mark Rimac’s trailblazing achievements since its inception.

A Celebration in Copper

The first of these exclusive units, finished in a new shade of copper with matte paintwork, will debut at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed. This unique colour choice not only symbolises celebration and energy but also reflects the material’s widespread use in electrical cables. The vehicle also features a striking fully visible carbon fibre split, providing a gloss contrast in both texture and colour.

Distinctive Design and Luxurious Interior

Each of the nine Nevera Anniversary Edition hypercars includes an exclusive dual-colour alloy wheel design, special 15 Years Anniversary badging, and a distinctive Rimac pattern that resembles a circuit board running the length of the car. The interior continues the celebratory theme with copper anodised switchgear and painted surfaces. The cabin, available in bold black or pristine white, features seats with contrasting copper leather and the number ’15’ embossed into the headrests. Special one-of-nine and ‘2009-2024’ scripts adorn the armrest, adding a unique touch to this special edition.

Unparalleled Performance

The Rimac Nevera is renowned as the world’s most powerful production car, having set 27 performance records last year alone. Key to its unprecedented speed is an advanced battery system, powertrain, and software, all developed in-house by Rimac. The hypercar’s front and rear powertrains, each comprising two individual motors, deliver power to each wheel independently. At the rear, a 1MW dual inverter provides 603hp and 900Nm per motor, while the bespoke front powertrain ensures optimal power and control. All systems are managed by Rimac All-Wheel Torque Vectoring 2, controlled by an NVIDIA Pegasus-based supercomputer calculating outputs 100 times per second.

From Dream to Reality

Since its incorporation, Rimac has evolved from a one-man dream to a conglomerate employing over 2,200 people across four European countries. The Rimac Group now encompasses Bugatti Rimac, Rimac Technology, and Rimac Energy, demonstrating the brand’s extensive growth and innovation in the automotive industry.

Exclusive Ownership

The Rimac Nevera 15th Anniversary Edition is priced at €2,350,000 (RM11,923,698), inclusive of all options and bespoke luggage that matches the interior. This highly exclusive hypercar not only represents the pinnacle of electric vehicle engineering but also a piece of automotive history. The first unit will take on the iconic hill climb at Goodwood, where the Nevera Time Attack edition set the Production Car record in 2023 with a time of 49.32 seconds.