Isuzu Malaysia launches the newly facelifted and refreshed D-Max for the Malaysian market

 

Yesterday evening, Isuzu Malaysia launched the facelifted and refreshed 2024 third generation Isuzu D-Max pickup truck. Coming with a refreshed front end with a new grille, lights, bumper, new rear lights and a larger infotainment screen as well as other interior refreshments, the new D-Max looks like it is more comfortable and car-like inside and looks like it can take on the elements from the outside. Like it always has. The D-Max has always been a favourite here among the pickup truck crowd (even with me) and with the refreshed looks as well as features, it should be welcomed here.

Sunmaju adds another 2 UD Trucks to their fleet - This time it is the latest Euro 5 Quester

Sunmaju Sdn Bhd (Sunmaju), has purchased 2 units of the UD Quester in its latest Euro 5 variant. A commercial fuels reseller, Sunmaju is moving towards better environmental sustainability by being the first company in the petroleum industry here to operate UD Trucks’ latest Euro 5 prime movers. This happened in a recent handover ceremony in which the two heavy-duty Euro 5 UD Quester were handed over. Sunmaju had purchased through Tan Chong Industrial Equipment Sdn Bhd’s (TCIE) Batu Caves dealership.

Aston Martin Kuala Lumpur introduces the new Aston Martin Vantage for the Malaysian market

Aston Martin Kuala Lumpur earlier today officially launched the new Aston Martin Vantage in Malaysia. This is latest generation of Aston Martin's sports car and it is the fastest Vantage to ever roll out of the Gaydon facilities to date. The new Vantage combines a finely-tuned front-engine with a race honed rear-wheel drive chassis to achieve what Aston Martin believes is the perfect balance of power and handling. Of course, this is until they come up with another Vantage a few years from now. But, aside from engine performance and handling, one must always consider the fact that sometimes, we want an Aston for how it looks and the new Vantage is a looker. .For a mere RM2,370 million with taxes, and a 3 year factory warranty which is able to be extended up to two decades, it could be a value buy, relatively speaking, of a lifetime.

MAN Truck & Bus at MCVE 2024 - Showcasing their full range of commercial vehicles from Truck, Bus to Van in Malaysia for the first time ever

MAN Truck & Bus (M) Sdn Bhd (MAN Malaysia) had come out full swing at this year's edition of the Malaysia Commercial Vehicle Expo (MCVE) 2024. The European brand came with their full range of its products and services for the first time in Malaysia and shows their commitment in promoting the brand here. This is another milestone after the previous MCVE in 2022 where the brand had just gone on the push to make the brand move visible here than it has ever been before.

At MCVE 2024 -- CAM launches the CAM KINGO 6AT 15/18 Seat Van with Euro 5 standards

R&A Marketing sdn. bhd, a company under the Sendok Group, the official distributor of CAM and King Long minivans in Malaysia since 2010 has launched the CAM KINGO 6AT 15/18 seater van at MCVE2024.  It has an all new Italian JV 2.4l euro5 diesel engine 145ps and an all important flat torque from 1400-2400rpm of 400Nm. one of the first few to bring in the much cleaner Euro5 vans here, which means it brings cleaner engine tech and in line with engine technology in developed countries.

ZF Aftermarket has tailor-made aftermarket parts solutions for the South East Asian market - Featured at the Malaysia Commercial Vehicle Expo (MCVE) 2024.

At the Malaysia Commercial Vehicle Expo 2024, I attended a short press conference with the people at ZF Aftermarket, renowned for its comprehensive systems solutions. They have reintroduced us to the brand and had unveiled a series of innovation poised to raise the benchmark for the commercial vehicle industry. ZF as a group, which most of us know as probably the best automotive transmission manufacturer in the world also has a foot hold in aftermarket parts with brands like Sachs, TRW and Wabco. So together with this and  its strong legacy in e-mobility and digitalization, ZF Aftermarket has launched a much-anticipated suite of products, meticulously developed to meet the stringent requirements of commercial vehicles.

 

Foton Aumark S light duty truck in Euro 4 configuration and the JMC Viggus Pro White Series Euro 4 pickup truck launched at MCVE 2024 with news on the eAumark light EV truck

Angka-Tan Motor, distributors of Foton light trucks and JMC in Malaysia launched the Foton Aumark S Euro 4 and JMC Vigus Pro White Series 4x2 (Euro 4)  at the Malaysia Commercial Vehicle Expo 2024 (MCVE) in keeping with MCVE 2024's theme for a greener and more sustainable Malaysian commercial vehicle landscape

The Sixth Instalment of the Malaysia Commercial Vehicle Expo - MCVE 2024 (9-11 May), places the spotlight on ESG - MAN Truck & Bus, PETRONAS and More

Today, the 6th instalment of the Malaysia Commercial Vehicle Expo (MCVE 2024) opened its doors at the Mines International Exhibition and Convention Centre (MIECC) until the 11th of May 2024.  MCVE is the first and biggest commercial vehicle expo series ever held in Malaysia and it has been focusing on future transport solutions in the commercial vehicle industry since its inception. It is also the largest such exhibition in Southeast Asia and is something that I have been attending over the years without fail. The three-day exhibition was launched by YB Loke Siew Fook, the Malaysian Minister of Transport.

The All new Peugeot 408 makes it to Malaysia - Prices start at a very reasonable RM146,055!

This, to me, is a breath of fresh air. The all-new Peugeot 408 has been launched and it is actually something nice to look at and something with a dollop of heritage behind it. This comes after a slew of brand new car launches from brands that are essentially new and from start ups. It is Available in three variants - Allure, Premium and GT with prices starting from RM146,055, is proudly assembled in Malaysia from Stellantis Gurun, Kedah and looks darn good for a C segment crossover fastback car.

New BMW iX3 Final Edition launched in Malaysia - The ultimate send off for the current generation iX3 EV Sports Utility Vehicle

 BMW Malaysia has launched the New BMW iX3 Final Edition, which is the run off special edition for this generation's fully electric iX3 Sposts Activity Vehicle (SAV), which we know as SUV everywhere else in the car world. The special edition now comes with additional M Performance equipment in addition to the M Sport package making this premium all-electric SAV making this final version come with a whole lot of nice stuff for the money. Or RM299,800 onwards to be exact.

The New BMW iX3 Final Edition is built upon what BMW calls its ‘Impressive’ trim and  bumps it up to eleven by having the new M Performance equipment as standard, This features the M Performance Carbon Mirror Caps, M Performance Carbon Fibre Door Sill, M Performance Rear Spoiler, as well as the Adaptive M Suspension lifetime upgrade.

New Toyota Yaris G Limited launched for Malaysia - 600 Unit limited edition featuring Performance Upgrades and More

Last week, UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) launched the Toyota Yaris G Limited. This latest addition to the Yaris lineup here in Malaysia offers improved performance upgrades, enhanced handling, and a stylish design. HOWEVER, the Toyota Yaris G Limited will be a limited run with only 600 units available and priced at RM99,600.00 (On the road, without insurance), with a  full 5-year unlimited mileage warranty for the vehicle. So if you are interested in a sharper handling, slightly more powerful Yaris with factory warranty, be quick about it.

Continental Tyres Launches High Performance Sporty new MaxContact MC7 Tyre which is design for those of us in the Asia Pacific region

Continental Tyres recently unveiled the new MaxContact MC7 tyre for the Malaysian market. This is Continental's sporty, high-performance tyre designed for urban landscapes and tailored to fulfill the needs of Asia Pacific (APAC) drivers - lots of humidity, rain, dust, etc. The new product follows up on the MC6 and is designed to deliver uplifting driving performance that improves everyday driving to the next level​ with the maximum control through precise steering and dynamic handling.

GAC GS3 EMZOOM launched -2 variants, 4 colours from Rm118,900 onwards - Special launch offers for first 2,000 customers

• The All New 2024 GAC GS3 EMZOOM CBU is now on sale in Malaysia, priced from RM118,900.00.

• The latest Compact SUV in Malaysia is powered by 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine developing 177PS and 270Nm of torque powering the front wheels via a wet clutch DCT.

• Modern looking styling is complemented with latest tech including wireless Apple CarPlayTM and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) safety features.

• Special launch package offers three times free service maintenance and seven-year coverage on engine and powertrain.

WTC Automotif (M) Sdn Bhd (WTCA), a subsidiary of Warisan TC Holdings Bhd, yesterday, officially unveiled the 2024 GAC GS3 EMZOOM in Malaysia. This marks about five years in the making, in terms of planning and bringing the EMZOOM into Malaysia, the compact sports utility vehicle (SUV) is now available in two completely built-up (CBU) variants for our market (for the time being, with local assembly coming in the near future), This is the GAC GS3 EMZOOM Exclusive and GS3 EMZOOM Premium R. These are officially priced at RM118,900.00 and RM128,900.00 respectively (before insurance).   The 2024 GAC GS3 EMZOOM is available in four colours: Salt Lake Blue, Ivory White, Graphene Grey and Super Star Silver. 

smart Damansara, a smart all-electric car dealership has opened an outlet in Mutiara Damansara

 

 smart Damansara, a smart all-electric car dealership operated by Smart Mobility Sdn Bhd has opened an outlet in Mutiara Damansara. Strategically located in Mutiara Damansara, it is at the ground floor of Menara TSR and is a 3S (Sales Service Spares) centre. It spans 7,500 sq ft, featuring a service centre with 4 service bays, a showroom and a spare parts hub. 

Sime Darby Racing Team, Porsche Malaysia, represented by Sime Darby Auto Performance, continues participating in the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia 2024 (PCCA) for a second straight year - Rounds 1 & 2 20-21 April 2024 at Sepang.

More Porsche racing from the Malaysian distributor.  After its debut last year, that saw a podium finish at the Sepang International Circuit for Sime Darby Racing Team, Porsche Malaysia, represented by the authorised Porsche distributor here, Sime Darby Auto Performance, has informed that it plans to continue participating in the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia 2024 (PCCA) for a second consecutive year. With home grown talents at the steering wheel and also as part of the team, Sime Darby Racing Team aims  to build on their achievements from the previous season and further establish themselves as a competitive team with in this prestigious Asian one-make series.

JAECOO J7 now open for booking with an estimated price for the Premium SUV set at an estimated RM150,000 onwards

 

Bookings for the upcoming 2024 JAECOO J7 SUV officially begins from the 10th April, 2024 onwards. Those interested in this new premium off-road SUV can place their interest at the JAECOO Premier Experience roadshow located at 1Utama Shopping Centre (Level LG, Highstreet) or via the official JAECOO Malaysia website from the 10th April onwards.

"Castrol Rentak Sintetik" campaign is now ongoing with the Castrol Rentak Sintetik E-Wallet campaign, running from 1 March to 30 April 2024

 CASTROL IGNITES "CASTROL RENTAK SINTETIK" CAMPAIGN: CELEBRATING MENANG BERSAMA CASTROL CHAMPION AND LEADERSHIP IN FULL SYNTHETIC TECHNOLOGY 

 

Kuala Lumpur, 27 March 2024 - Castrol, a leading automotive lubricant company, celebrates the grand prize winner of the Menang Bersama Castrol contest and ignites the "Castrol Rentak Sintetik" campaign. This innovative initiative reflects Castrol's commitment to Full Synthetic Technology Leadership. The campaign aims to connect with a younger Malaysian audience and highlight the superior performance and protection offered by Castrol's full-synthetic engine oils, including Castrol EDGE and Castrol MAGNATEC. 

Castrol has announced their “Castrol Rentak Sintetik” campaign, which is aimed at younger Malaysian Drivers. Connecting with the Future of Driving through Full Synthetic Technology, this campaign will leverage "thumb-stopping creatives" that resonate with the social media generation. It will showcase the superior performance advantages of Castrol's full-synthetic range, steering young drivers to make informed choices about their vehicles' condition. 

GWM ORA 07 Launched - The fastback styled four door coupe comes in 2 variants from RM169,888 onwards with a very good warranty package with can run up to 8 years.

 

GWM, short for Great Wall Motors, have launched their latest EV, the Ora 07 streamline four door 'coupe'. This what I would call a neo-retro styled four door coupe is priced at RM169,800 for the long range variant and RM189,800 for the performance variant. Both come with an attractive warranty package for both battery and powertrain for up to 8 years. The 07 offers another choice for Malaysians that want to test the waters and try out a premium feeling battery powered electric vehicle.

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia unveils the new Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC, the new Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 4MATIC, the all-new Mercedes-AMG S 63 E PERFORMANCE & the new Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 4MATIC Coupé

Earlier today, I attended Mercedes-Benz Malaysia preview of four new higher end of their range vehicles at its Luxury Showcase event held at NZ Wheels in the upper scale Bangsar/Telawi area. The Dream Cars showcase is actually on from the 3 rd to 7 th of April 2024 at NZ Wheels Bangsar. The showcase offers customers a unique and exclusive Mercedes-Benz experience, complete with test drive opportunities of many Mercedes-Benz dream cars (we saw the latest SL parked outside as an example). You can see the highest-quality Mercedes-Benz craftsmanship, quality, sophistication, and the ultimate driving experience.

The fourth Kawasaki All-Star showroom in Malaysia opens in Johor Bahru

 Edaran Modenas Sdn. Bhd. (EMOS), the wholly owned subsidiary of Motosikal dan Enjin Nasional Sdn. Bhd. (MODENAS) celebrated the successful launch of its fourth All-Star showroom, Kawasaki Johor Bahru (KJB)on the 30th of March 2024. The opening ceremony was officiated by Qbee Ng, Director of Kawasaki Johor Bahru together with MODENAS Chief Executive Officer Roslan Roskan, and Chief Marketing Officer George Kashiwagi. EMOS is the distribution arm of MODENAS. 

Also part of the event, Kawasaki Johor Bahru and EMOS handed over three units of the recently launched Modenas ZX25-RR to its first owners in Johor. The new 2024 Kawasaki ZX-25RR is now available at all authorised Kawasaki All-Star dealers.

smart Malaysia Extends 30% Savings on Over 1,000 Public Chargers Nationwide for 9 Days via the Hello smart App

In conjunction with Ramadan and the upcoming Hari Raya celebration, smart Malaysia has announced its exclusive 30% discount on public charging fee for smart car owners when they charge and pay via the Hello smart App. This initiative is a result of a partnership with Charging Point Operators (CPOs) through a live system integration. Valid from 6 to 14 April 2024, it is designed to enhance the ‘Balik Kampung’ experience, making customers' journeys a little bit more affordable and convenient.

Enhanced Convenience through the Hello smart App &; Elevating the Charging Experience. Take advantage of the 30% savings with Hello smart App, granting users access to a nationwide network of charging stations with over 1,000 public charging points seamlessly integrated. Owners can conveniently locate nearby points, check station availability, and initiate charging sessions without hassle.

UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) announces order taking for the all-new Toyota HiAce Super Long Wheelbase (SLWB) Window Van

 

UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) have announced that the order taking for the all-new Toyota HiAce Super Long Wheelbase (SLWB) Window Van has started.  The new HiAce is designed to offer excellent efficiency, safety, and an effortless driving experience. It should go well with operators that want the legendary Toyota reliability, brand cachet and other aspects that come with the badge. Well loved by tour group operators that take small groups of tourist long haul here in Malaysia to neighbouring. Or even just short trips for airport transfers. All in a Toyota van. A legend when it comes to moving people.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke states EV Road Tax may be confirmed by April 2024 and special number plates for EV vehicles too

Yesterday, at the GAC and TC Warisan MOU signing ceremony for the study of local assembly in Malaysia of GAC vehicles with a view towards exports including left hand drive exports - the article is HERE, the Malaysian Transport Minister, the Honourable Anthony Loke had also stated some significant points pertaining to the ownership of electric vehicles (EV) here in Malaysia. Road tax for EV cars is still being studied but a result should be given by the Ministry of Transport by April 2024. According to the minister, they are studying to make the EV road tax lower than what it is and lower than fossil fuel powered vehicles (if possible).

WTC Automotif and GAC Motor International have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to initiate feasibility studies for two new completely knocked-down (CKD) vehicle assembly projects in Malaysia

Yesterday, while most Malaysian were doing their shopping for the upcoming Id celebrations, WTC Automotif (M) Sdn Bhd (WTCA), a subsidiary of Warisan TC Holdings Bhd, and GAC Motor International Co., Ltd. (GAC Motor International) entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to initiate feasibility studies for two new completely knocked-down (CKD) vehicle assembly projects in Malaysia. The signing is a start for local assembly for GAC vehicles, namely the study into CKD production of the right-hand drive GAC EMKOO for the Malaysian market and the left-hand drive GAC GS3 EMZOOM, destined for export to Vietnam. The event was witnessed by the Malaysian Transport Minister, The Honourable Anthony Loke.

PROTON have a new 2024 Hari Raya tearjerker short film out featuring the Proton S70 and an appearance by the Proton Edar CEO inside it - PROTON X Little Joe 2024 Syurgaku

PROTON premiered their latest Hari Raya short film at a buka puasa event with the media yesterday. The tearjerker of a short film was produced in collaboration with Elite Definition Sdn Bhd, the exclusive distributor for Little Joe Air Freshener in Malaysia. This year’s PROTON Hari Raya short film - PROTON X Little Joe is titled Syurgaku, or My Heaven. It showcases the new Proton S70 C-segment sedan, as well as Proton's 3S/4S outlets.. With a run time of nearly 22 minutes, it features popular Malaysian actors Shaheizy Sam, Sharifah Amani and Fauziah Ahmad Daud under the direction of local actor and director, Pekin Ibrahim. 

PROTON starts in-house tinting services at their Tanjung Malim plant

Recently PROTON announced the opening of the Exclusive PROTON Accessories Tint Centre, located at its production plant in Tanjung Malim, Perak. This allows in-house tinting for Proton cars and it is capable to fit tinting on up to 5,000 vehicles per month.

New TAKATA Airbag Recall - Audi Owners Please Take Note - Q5, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Sportback from 2009 to 2012, TT and R8 from 2014 to 2017, A4, A4 Cabriolet, A6 from 2005 to 2011

 

This is another TAKATA Airbag recall folks. This time it is from Audi. PHS Automotive Malaysia has announce a recall for the cars mentioned - The  Q5, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Sportback from 2009 to 2012, TT and R8 from 2014 to 2017, A4, A4 Cabriolet, A6 from 2005 to 2011. 

Note that the recall should not be taken lightly as it involves the deployment of the airbags in accidents where the explosion caused by the propellant that inflates the airbag is too strong and may cause serious injuries and even death. The change to a new airbag is borne by Audi, so no cost to you as owners.

JAECOO aims for a top spot in the entry level premium SUV in Malaysia

JAECOO has taken aim at the entry level premium SUV market here. According to the brand, which is actually an offshoot of the Chery vehicle manufacturer, he C-segment SUV playing field in Malaysia is progressing with an emerging range of competitive entry level to premium variants.so, SUV brand, JAECOO, is looking to tap into Malaysia’s growing urban elite with a taste for off-road adventure. That is essentially their difference, against other SUV competitiors and it actually does show with the very premium looking, and feelling JAECOO J7 which you see in the photos herein.