The recent announcement that production of the iconic Toyota GR Supra and BMW Z4 will end in 2026 marks the conclusion of a significant chapter in the history of these beloved sports cars. Manufactured by Magna Steyr in Austria, both models have captivated automotive enthusiasts worldwide. However, broader production challenges and strategic shifts at Magna Steyr, including a workforce reduction of 500 employees at their Graz facility, have influenced this decision.
Sales figures for the Toyota GR Supra in the United States have seen a notable decline, contributing to the decision to cease production. The Supra sold 6,830 units in 2021, but this number dropped to 4,952 units in 2022, and further to 2,652 units last year. The trend appears to be continuing in 2024, with only 484 units sold in the first quarter, indicating that sales might fall below 2,000 units by the end of the year. In contrast, the Toyota GR86 has shown stronger performance, selling 2,041 units in the first quarter alone, with 1,364 units sold in March.
BMW telah secara rasminya melancarkan generasi keenam BMW 5 Series Touring, dengan penampilan sulung yang termasuk model enjin pembakaran dalaman dan versi elektrik sepenuhnya. Penghantaran kenderaan pertama telah dilakukan kepada pelanggan di Eropah dan Jepun, menunjukkan komitmen BMW terhadap elektrifikasi dan inovasi dalam reka bentuk dan teknologi kenderaan.
Model Elektrik BMW i5 Touring
BMW i5 Touring elektrik memimpin barisan, memperkenalkan dua model utama:
BMW i5 M60 xDrive Touring:
– Kuasa sehingga 601hp.
– Memberikan prestasi tinggi yang mengagumkan.
BMW i5 eDrive40 Touring:
– Kuasa sehingga 340hp.
– Mampu mencapai jarak memandu sehingga 560km mengikut kitaran ujian WLTP.
BMW baru sahaja melancarkan BMW M3 Competition yang dikemas kini yang menampilkan peningkatan kuasa, penambahbaikan visual, dan beberapa peningkatan dalaman. Model terbaru ini mengekalkan enjin enam silinder twin-turbo 3.0 liter yang sedia ada, tetapi kini dengan tambahan 20bhp berkat kawalan enjin digital yang dioptimumkan. Ini menjadikan jumlah output kepada 523bhp, manakala tork puncak kekal stabil pada 650Nm. BMW mendakwa peningkatan kuasa ini menghasilkan penyampaian kuasa yang lebih sengit dan mampan.
Penambahan kuasa tersebut diterjemahkan kepada pengurangan masa pecutan. BMW M3 Competition saloon kini mencatat masa 0-100km/j dalam 3.5 saat, pengurangan sebanyak 0.4 saat. Model M3 Touring mengikuti dengan rapat, hanya lebih perlahan sebanyak satu persepuluh saat. Pertandingan M3 empat pintu boleh mencapai 0-200km/j dalam masa 11.8 saat, setengah saat lebih pantas daripada pendahulunya. Kelajuan tertinggi dihadkan secara elektronik kepada 250km/j, tetapi boleh ditingkatkan kepada 290km/j (280km/j untuk Touring) dengan Pakej Pemandu M pilihan.
Secara visual, M3 telah dinaik taraf dengan lampu hadapan LED baharu yang menampilkan lampu nyalaan siang berbentuk anak panah, seperti yang terdapat pada BMW M4 Competition yang baru-baru ini diperkenalkan. Lampu depan LED adaptif dengan teknologi matriks dan tatahan biru memberikan sentuhan tersendiri.
M3 Competition kini dilengkapi dengan roda aloi palsu dalam saiz khusus gandar (depan 19 inci dan belakang 20 inci). Reka bentuk standard Jetblack boleh ditukar dengan set roda aloi ringan M dalam warna perak, yang kini menjadi pilihan baharu untuk pelanggan. Lencana M3 pada penutup but juga telah diperbaharui dengan keliling berwarna perak.
Di dalam, M3 menggunakan Sistem Operasi 8.5 BMW yang terbaharu untuk sistem infotainmen, selari dengan kemas kini yang dilihat dalam Siri 3 standard. Dalaman baharu ini termasuk stereng M tiga jejari yang direka semula dengan butang pelbagai fungsi dan penanda jam 12 merah. Versi trim Alcantara bagi stereng ini juga tersedia buat pertama kali.
Untuk penyesuaian lanjut, BMW menawarkan pakej luaran M Carbon. Pakej ini termasuk tatahan baharu untuk salur masuk udara hadapan, penyebar yang disemak semula, spoiler penutup but dan penutup cermin gentian karbon. Pakej Trek Lumba M, direka untuk peminat prestasi, menampilkan brek seramik dan tempat duduk baldi karbon, mengurangkan berat kereta sebanyak 25kg berbanding model asas.
Kemas kini kepada BMW M3 Competition meningkatkan prestasi, gaya dan teknologinya, memastikan ia kekal sebagai pilihan yang menonjol dalam segmen sedan berprestasi tinggi. Dengan peningkatan kuasa, penambahbaikan visual yang diperhalusi, dan pelbagai pilihan penyesuaian, M3 Competition terus menawarkan pengalaman pemanduan yang mengasyikkan dan dinamik.
BMW has unveiled the updated M3 Competition, featuring a slight power increase, refined visual enhancements, and a series of interior upgrades. Maintaining the familiar 3.0-litre twin-turbo six-cylinder engine, the new BMW M3 and BMW M3 Touring now benefit from a 20bhp boost due to optimised digital engine control. This brings the total output to 523bhp, while peak torque remains steady at 650Nm. BMW claims this power enhancement results in a more intense and sustained power delivery, enhancing the overall performance experience.
The power boost translates to a 0.4-second reduction in the M3 Competition saloon’s 0-100km/h acceleration time, now clocking in at 3.5 seconds. The M3 Touring follows closely, just one-tenth slower. The four-door M3 Competition can achieve 0-200km/h in 11.8 seconds, which is half a second faster than its predecessor. The top speed is electronically limited to 250km/h, but this can be increased to 290km/h (280km/h for the Touring) with the optional M Driver’s Package.
Visually, the M3 has been upgraded with new LED headlights featuring arrow-shaped daytime running lights, similar to those on the recently introduced M4 Competition. The adaptive LED headlights with matrix technology include blue inlays, adding a distinctive touch.
The M3 Competition now comes with forged alloy wheels in axle-specific sizes (19-inch front and 20-inch rear). The standard Jetblack design can be swapped for a set of M light-alloy wheels in silver, a new option for customers. Additionally, the M3 badge on the boot lid now features a silver-colored surround.
Inside, the M3 adopts BMW’s latest Operating System 8.5 for its infotainment system, aligning with updates seen in the standard 3 Series. The new interior includes a redesigned three-spoke M steering wheel with multifunction buttons and a red 12 o’clock marker. An Alcantara-trimmed version of this wheel is available for the first time.
For those seeking further customisation, BMW offers an M Carbon exterior package. This package includes new inlays for the front air intakes, a revised diffuser, a boot lid spoiler, and carbon fibre mirror caps. The M Race Track package, designed for performance enthusiasts, features ceramic brakes and carbon bucket seats, reducing the car’s weight by 25kg compared to the base model.
The updates to the BMW M3 Competition enhance its performance, style, and technology, ensuring it remains a standout choice in the high-performance sedan segment.
The new BMW 5 Series Touring has officially made its debut, with the first vehicles delivered to customers in Europe and Japan. This sixth generation of the 5 Series Touring introduces the all-electric BMW i5 Touring for the first time, alongside traditional internal combustion engine models, reflecting BMW’s ongoing commitment to electrification and innovation.
The all-electric BMW i5 Touring leads the lineup, featuring two models. The BMW i5 M60 xDrive Touring boasts an impressive output of up to 601 horsepower, while the BMW i5 eDrive40 Touring offers up to 340hp and a range of up to 560km as determined by the WLTP test cycle. These models mark a significant step in BMW’s efforts to expand its electric vehicle offerings.
For those who prefer diesel engines, the BMW 520d Touring and BMW 520d xDrive Touring are also available. These models are particularly popular in Europe and are equipped with a four-cylinder diesel engine combined with 48-volt mild hybrid technology, delivering a maximum output of 197hp. This technology enhances fuel efficiency and reduces emissions, aligning with modern environmental standards.
Looking ahead to summer 2024, BMW plans to introduce plug-in hybrid versions of the new 5 Series Touring. The upcoming BMW 530e Touring and BMW 530e xDrive Touring will feature a powertrain that combines a four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor integrated into an 8-speed Steptronic transmission, collectively generating 299hp. These models will offer substantial electric-only ranges, with the 530e Touring capable of traveling 83 to 95km on electric power alone, and the 530e xDrive Touring achieving 82 to 89km. The BMW 530e xDrive Sedan will also join the lineup, offering similar performance and efficiency.
Additionally, the range of the new BMW 5 Series will expand to include a six-cylinder diesel engine by summer 2024. The BMW 540d xDrive Sedan and BMW 540d xDrive Touring will feature a straight six-cylinder diesel engine paired with 48-volt mild hybrid technology. This combination produces 303hp and 670Nm of torque, enabling both models to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in just 5.2 seconds. The intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel drive system ensures optimal traction and driving stability across various road conditions.
BMW’s electrification strategy is evident in the new 5 Series Touring, particularly with the introduction of the all-electric i5 Touring and the upcoming plug-in hybrid variants. These models are designed to deliver both performance and efficiency, offering substantial electric-only ranges and impressive system outputs. The integration of mild hybrid technology in the diesel variants and the sophisticated powertrain in the hybrid models underscore BMW’s commitment to cutting-edge automotive technology.
Practicality remains a key feature of the new 5 Series Touring, including the plug-in hybrid models. The innovative packaging of the high-voltage battery under the vehicle’s floor allows for a flat luggage compartment without compromising cargo space. The Touring model offers 570 litres of luggage capacity with all seats in use, which can be expanded to 1,700 litres when needed, ensuring versatility for various needs.
The launch of the new BMW 5 Series Touring, including the all-electric i5 Touring and upcoming plug-in hybrids, signifies a major advancement in BMW’s journey towards electrification and carbon neutrality. These models blend traditional BMW performance with modern, sustainable technologies, making the 5 Series a top choice in the premium upper mid-range segment. The combination of innovative powertrains, practical design, and BMW’s signature driving dynamics ensures that the new 5 Series Touring will appeal to a wide range of customers seeking performance, efficiency, and luxury.
Kumpulan BMW telah memperkenalkan BMW Concept Skytop di Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, satu acara yang dihormati yang diadakan di Lake Como. Konsep dua tempat duduk terbuka ini menggabungkan reka bentuk elegan dan sporty, memancarkan estetika yang menawan dengan warna monokromatik hangat dan bahan eksklusif. Menggabungkan ketukangan tradisional dengan teknologi moden, Concept Skytop dicipta sebagai arca kenderaan yang menarik.
Ciri-ciri Utama BMW Concept Skytop:
Reka Bentuk Luar:
– Perkadaran Atletik dan Organik: Binaan kelihatan ganas dengan permukaan tegang dan garis minimalis menonjolkan penampilan dinamik. ‘Integrated winglets’ menggantikan pemegang pintu tradisional, manakala lamella menonjolkan roda aloi ringan.
– Elemen Reka Bentuk Tandatangan: Bonet yang menonjol dan reka bentuk ikonik “shark-nose” BMW dengan gril buah pinggang yang bercahaya membawa kepada bahagian belakang yang dipertingkatkan.
– Garis berterusan dari bonet melalui bahagian dalam ke trim aluminium pada pintu belakang mengingatkan pada roadster BMW Z8 yang terkenal.
– Teknologi Pencahayaan Termaju: Lampu utama LED yang dibangunkan khas dengan ‘milled aluminium carriers’, serta lampu belakang rata dan jelas melengkapkan reka bentuk bersih kenderaan.
– Ciri Unik: Bar roll-over siap kulit, sirip sisi pada tiang B, tingkap belakang yang boleh ditarik sepenuhnya, dan bumbung boleh tanggal yang boleh disimpan di dalam ruang bagasi menambah daya tarikan tersendiri.
Reka Bentuk Dalaman:
– Ketukangan Mewah: Permukaan kulit gaya Brogue memberikan rasa kemewahan dan kelapangan. Kulit coklat kemerahan berbeza dengan cat luaran perak yang diredam, mencipta peralihan yang lancar antara bahagian dalam dan luar.
– Butiran Berseni: Aplikasi kristal tertanam dalam kokpit meningkatkan lagi rasa mewah.
– Pembuatan Tradisional: Permukaan dalaman dibuat di pelana tradisional BMW di kilang Dingolfing, memberi penghormatan kepada ketukangan klasik.
– Enjin V8 Berkuasa: Sama seperti BMW Z8, Concept Skytop dilengkapi dengan enjin V8 BMW yang paling berkuasa dengan memastikan prestasi yang sepadan dengan reka bentuk dinamiknya.
BMW Concept Skytop mempamerkan dedikasi BMW untuk menggabungkan ketukangan tradisional dengan teknologi moden, menghasilkan reka bentuk yang teliti dan ciri-ciri mewah. Konsep ini memberi penghormatan kepada perlumbaan motor dan reka bentuk yang anggun, menjadikannya kemuncak di Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. Ia juga memberi gambaran masa depan kenderaan BMW yang eksklusif dan dinamik, mengesahkan komitmen BMW terhadap inovasi dan kemewahan dalam reka bentuk automotif.
The BMW Group has unveiled the BMW Concept Skytop at this year’s Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, an esteemed event by Lake Como that highlights historic cars and motorcycles. This unique, open two-seater exudes an elegant, sporty design, merging warm monochromatic colours and exclusive materials with traditional craftsmanship to create a meticulously crafted vehicle sculpture.
The Concept Skytop’s exterior features athletic and organic proportions with a sleek, muscular build. Taut surfaces and minimalistic lines guide the eye towards the rear, creating a dynamic appearance enhanced by integrated winglets replacing traditional door handles and precise lamellas on the light-alloy wheels. Signature design elements include a prominent bonnet and an iconic BMW shark-nose design with an illuminated kidney grille, leading to a retracted rear section.
A striking spline runs from the bonnet through the interior to an aluminium trim on the tailgate, echoing the legendary BMW Z8 roadster. Advanced lighting technology is showcased through custom-developed LED headlights with milled aluminium carriers, consolidating all lighting functions into a single, slim profile. The rear lights’ flat and defined shape complements the vehicle’s clean design. Unique features such as a leather-finished roll-over bar, side fins on the B-pillar, a fully retractable rear window, and removable roof parts that can be stored in the luggage compartment add to its distinctive appeal.
Inside, the Concept Skytop is a testament to luxurious craftsmanship. Brogue-style leather surfaces create a sense of opulence and spaciousness, with the reddish-brown leather contrasting against the muted silver exterior paintwork for a seamless transition between the interior and exterior. Artful details, such as crystal applications embedded in the cockpit, further enhance the luxurious feel. The interior surfaces were crafted at BMW’s traditional saddlery in the Dingolfing plant. Similar to the BMW Z8, the Concept Skytop houses BMW’s most powerful V8 engine, ensuring performance that matches its dynamic design.
The BMW Concept Skytop showcases BMW’s dedication to blending traditional craftsmanship with modern technology. With its meticulous design and luxurious features, this concept car pays tribute to motor racing and elegant design, standing out as a highlight at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. It offers a glimpse into the future of exclusive and dynamic BMW vehicles, reaffirming BMW’s commitment to innovation and luxury in automotive design.
BMW Malaysia has introduced two new models to their premium sporty sedan lineup: the All-New BMW i5 M60 xDrive and the new locally assembled BMW 520i. These models were unveiled at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024, alongside the All-New BMW iX1 eDrive20 M Sport and the First-Ever BMW iX2 xDrive30 M Sport.
All-New BMW i5 M60 xDrive
The All-New BMW i5 M60 xDrive is a significant addition to BMW’s electric vehicle lineup, featuring a range of design, interior, performance, and technology highlights that emphasise its sporty and modern aesthetic. The M Performance kidney grille, BMW Iconic Glow exterior package, and 21-inch aerodynamic wheels from the BMW individual line contribute to its sleek design. Additional features include vertical LED strips in the headlights, a coupé-like silhouette, and slender LED taillights, creating a distinctive appearance.
Inside, the luxurious interior includes a BMW Curved Display with a 12.3-inch instrument panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen Control Display, complemented by the Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System with 18 speakers and 655 Watts output, enhancing the driving experience. The electric powertrain delivers 601hp and 795Nm of torque, allowing the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds, with a top speed of 230km/h. The high-voltage battery offers a range of up to 516km (WLTP).
Technological advancements include the BMW Operating System 8.5, BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, and Digital Key Plus with UWB radio. The Driving Assistant Professional provides advanced driver assistance with features like Distance Control with Stop & Go and Steering and Lane Control Assistant. Efficiency is optimised with adaptive recuperation, heat pump technology for interior heating and cooling, and a new Max Range function. The vehicle supports 22kW AC charging for flexibility in home and public charging. Exterior and upholstery options include colours like Black Sapphire Metallic and Mineral White Metallic, with premium upholstery options such as Leather Merino Black / Atlas Grey.
New Locally Assembled BMW 520i
The New BMW 520i shares a similar design language with its electric counterpart and includes a sleek, sporty exterior with a coupé-like silhouette, and new 19-inch aerodynamic wheels. The interior features a two-spoked steering wheel, BMW Curved Display, illuminated BMW Interaction Bar, and wireless charging tray.
Performance-wise, the vehicle is powered by the B48 4-cylinder engine in a 48V mild hybrid form, delivering 208hp and 330Nm of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 7.5 seconds with a top speed of 230km/h. Technological features include the Driving Assistant Plus with Active Cruise Control, Steering and Lane Control Assistant, and Lane Departure Warning system, enhancing driving safety and convenience.
Exterior and upholstery options include colours like Black Sapphire Metallic and Mineral White Metallic, with luxurious upholstery options such as Veganza Perforated with Quilted Black.
BMW Malaysia remains committed to providing premium vehicles that cater to diverse customer preferences while maintaining high standards of performance, efficiency, and luxury. The introduction of these new models at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024 underscores BMW’s dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction in the Malaysian market.
The estimated pricing (on the road without insurance) for the BMW i5 M60 xDrive is RM480,000 and RM340,000 for the BMW 520i.
BMW M4 CS baharu menyertai barisan M, bertujuan untuk mencapai keseimbangan sempurna antara kuasa, ketangkasan dan reka bentuk ringan. Terletak di antara varian Competition dan CSL, ia menjanjikan pengalaman pemanduan yang menggembirakan.
Di bawah hud, enjin inline-six twin-turbo menghasilkan 543hp dan tork 650Nm, memastikan pecutan mendebarkan dan kelajuan yang mengagumkan. Digandingkan dengan sistem pacuan semua roda BMW M xDrive dan transmisi automatik Steptronic lapan kelajuan, M4 CS boleh mencapai 0 hingga 100km/j dalam masa 3.2 saat sahaja, dengan kelajuan tertinggi dihadkan pada 302km/j.
Pengurangan berat menjadi tumpuan utama dalam M4 CS, dengan plastik bertetulang gentian karbon digunakan secara meluas untuk panel badan, bahagian dalaman dan sistem ekzos. Ini mengurangkan berat badan berlebihan berbanding dengan Competition M4, meningkatkan prestasi dan pengendalian keseluruhan. Tetapan casis dan suspensi yang ditala khas meningkatkan lagi keupayaan selekoh, menjadikan M4 CS sebagai daya yang perlu diperhitungkan di kedua-dua jalan dan trek.
BMW menambah baik perjanjian itu dengan menawarkan tayar trek atau ultra trek tanpa caj tambahan, dipasang pada tayar aloi M 19-inci depan dan belakang 20-inci berwarna hitam atau emas.
Secara visual, M4 CS menyerlah dengan warna luaran yang unik seperti Riviera Blue atau Frozen Isle of Man Green, dipertingkatkan dengan aksen gentian karbon terdedah dan lampu kuning.
Di dalam warna hitam dengan kemasan merah yang diperbuat daripada bahan kulit premium dan Alcantara, menyapa penghuninya. Penjenamaan CS menonjol, dan jeriji buah pinggang tanpa bingkai dengan kemasan merah menambah suasana sporty.
Dengan harga permulaan $124,675 (RM591,645), M4 CS menawarkan premium, tetapi peminat mendapat coupe berprestasi tinggi yang tidak berkompromi dengan gaya. Pengeluaran dijadualkan bermula pada bulan Julai, dengan penghantaran dijangka lewat tahun ini, menjadikan M4 CS sebagai tambahan yang dinanti-nantikan kepada barisan M untuk peminat pemanduan yang mendambakan prestasi tanpa kompromi dan keseronokan.
The new BMW M4 CS arrives as a compelling addition to the M lineup, offering a balance of power, agility, and lightweight construction. With a focus on enhancing performance and driving dynamics, the M4 CS slots between the Competition and CSL variants, delivering a thrilling driving experience.
Powered by a twin-turbocharged inline-six engine tuned to produce 543hp and 650Nm of torque, the M4 CS delivers exhilarating acceleration and impressive speed. Paired with BMW’s M xDrive all-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, the M4 CS can sprint from 0 to 100km/h in just 3.2 seconds, with a top speed limited to 302km/h.
Weight reduction is a key focus for the M4 CS, with carbon fibre-reinforced plastic utilised for various body panels, interior components, and even the exhaust system. This results in a lighter overall weight compared to the M4 Competition, contributing to improved performance and handling. The chassis and suspension tuning specific to the CS further enhance the cornering capability, making the M4 CS a formidable performer on both road and track.
BMW provides track or ultra-track tyres at no additional cost. They are mounted to a pair of M alloy wheels in black or gold that measure 19 inches in the front and 20 inches in the rear.
Visually, the M4 CS features distinctive styling cues, including unique exterior colours such as Riviera Blue or Frozen Isle of Man Green, complemented by exposed carbon fibre accents and yellow running lights.
The interior boasts a black colour scheme with red trim, crafted from high-quality leather and Alcantara materials. CS branding is prominent throughout the cabin, while the frameless kidney grille with red trim adds to the sporty aesthetic.
While the M4 CS commands a premium price tag starting at $124,675 (RM591,645), it offers enthusiasts a high-performance coupe that delivers on both style and substance. With production set to begin in July and deliveries expected later this year, the M4 CS promises to be a sought-after addition to the M lineup for driving enthusiasts seeking uncompromising performance and driving thrills.
