Ford and Sime Darby Auto Connexion Launches the Latest Generation Ford Ranger in Malaysia

Ford, together with Malaysian authorised distributors Sime Darby Auto Connexion has launched the next generation Ford Ranger pickup truck. This ever popular pickup was engineered with valuable input from customers, Ford engineers and designers created a bold, purposeful exterior design and sleek, inviting, high-tech interior. Still familiar in its overall styling but improved all over according to the folks at Ford. I managed to attend the launch event even though I had quite a busy schedule. Maybe since it was Friday and most of my errands were done for the week (trying to get things back on track after all lockdowns over the past two years).

All New 2022 Perodua Alza MPV Launched - Already 30,000 Bookings Received For It

As usual, a new Perodua gets a ton of bookings prior to the official launch. So we now see the all-new Alza MPV having 30,000 and by now, more than that bookings by Malaysians. It does look like Malaysians love their Perodua and the new Alza, totally all-new is being welcomed extremely well. Now, it is based on the latest generation of Toyota/Daihatsu compact MPV chassis which is will know as the Avanza (in its most basic form).

Scania Malaysia Delivers to MFJ Logistics their First Scania New Truck Generation XT Truck

Scania recently delivered the first Scania New Truck Generation (NTG) XT G410A6x4NZ in Johor to MFJ Logistics Sdn. Bhd. (MFJ). This heavy duty NTG Scania XT truck comes with Contracted Services and Scania Fleet Management System (FMS) Control 10 and covered by Scania Financial Services. Scania Malaysia handed over the key to Mad Faisal Jamaluddin, Director of MFJ Logistics Sdn. Bhd at MFJ’s premises in Pagoh, Johor.

PROTON Officially Opens its Latest Hi-Tech Engine Assembly Line in Tanjung Malim

PROTON earlier today unveiled their latest engine assembly line at their Tanjung Malim plant at an exclusive event for invited media guests. The hi-tech assembly line has been in operation since April this year and produces the company’s 1.5 TGDI (Turbo Gasoline Direct Injection) engine, the first time it has been assembled outside of China and is one of the most advanced automotive engine assembly lines in the country. This means that even more local content is in Proton's SUVs after this.

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s product pricing updates - Post 30th June 2022 SST Exemption Pricing

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia have on the 1st of July 2022 announced the adjusted manufacturer’s recommended retail selling prices for each Mercedes-Benz model in line with reintroduction of the sales tax (SST) for locally-assembled and fully imported vehicles. Remember folks, this is what we were basically paying when we bought a new car prior to the suspension of the SST due to the government of Malaysia putting in place a system to lessen the burden of Malaysians during the recent pandemic. Now it is back to normal. 

Tan Chong Industrial Equipment Delivers RM2.4m UD Quester Vacuum Loader Truck to Duromac

On 1st July 2022, Tan Chong Industrial Equipment Sdn Bhd (TCIE), the sole distributor of UD Trucks delivered a UD Quester CGE390 8x4 rigid truck platform equipped with a vacuum loader worth 2.4 million ringgit to the Duromac Group today. The UD Quester is UD Trucks' heavy-duty truck that has been designed with fuel efficiency and durability as well as being a platform designed to fit into different customers’ expectations. Like this unique vac-blower truck you see here right now. The handover ceremony was held at Duromac headquarters located in Puchong and witnessed by senior management of Duromac, UD Trucks and TCIE. 

PHS Automotive Malaysia is the official distributor of Audi cars in Malaysia- Things Should be Rosy Again for Audi Here After This

Managing Directors, Erik Winter and Kurt Leitner

PHS Automotive Malaysia (PHSAM) is now the official distributor of Audi cars in Malaysia. Finally after being in somewhat of a limbo, Audi has a proper distributor again. Previously, Audi Malaysia was the official distributors but since 2018 or so, they have pulled out with the principal handling things via their Singapore office. Now, PHSAM is handling things. I believe that they will do a better job that what has been done previously and actually bring Audi back into the premium car game here in Malaysia.

The All-New Perodua Alza is now open for booking - Launch Very Soon

Perodua is officially taking orders for the All-New Perodua Alza compact MPV. According to them, the all-new Alza will come with" significant improvements in terms of driving comfort and versatility.: It will be based on the current Daihatsu Xenia/Toyota Veloz, which is already on sale over in Indonesia, rather than based on the Daihatsu Boon Luminas. Tentative pricing for the all-new Alza is between RM62,000 and RM75,000 (in West Malaysia, without insurance and pre-sales tax), 

The new 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 e 4MATIC Coupé and refreshed 2022 Mercedes- AMG GLB 35 4MATIC now Available in Malaysia

During the official opening event of the Mercedes-Benz Setia Alam Autohaus, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia also announced the availability of two model updates in its SUV line; the new locally-assembled (CKD) Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 e 4MATIC Coupé as well as the Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4MATIC (below), now enhanced with new vehicle equipment upgrades.

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia and Hap Seng Star launch their Latest Autohaus in Setia Alam

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia and Hap Seng Star earlier today, have together officially launched its newly relocated Mercedes-Benz Autohaus in Setia Alam. It features a new luxury brand presence and exclusive luxury lifestyle boutique for the folks and Mercedes-Benz customers in and around Setia Alam, Selangor. This new, very much larger, Hap Seng Star Setia Alam Autohaus outlet features new enhancements and upgrades that embodies a luxurious retail experience concept for customers, showcasing the brand’s commitment to be a leader in the luxury retail experience while strengthening its customer touchpoints throughout Malaysia. 

The latest 2022 specification Foton Aumark S 5T Light-Duty Truck are launched in Malaysia

Angka-Tan Motor Sdn Bhd, a company under the Tan Chong group of companies,  the Malaysian distributors of Foton commercial vehicles has launched the Foton Aumark S City Flyer 4-Wheeler BJ1065 Series, a light-duty truck to meet the demands of logistics usage in the country.The Foton Aumark S City Flyer basically comes with 5.6 tonnes GVC (gross vehicle weight) and is enhanced with better safety and quality. Aside from this, Angka-Tan are also launching the City Flyer in a longer wheelbase form for those that require more carrying capacity. The prices for the new Aumark City Flyer will start at RM93,900 for the 4 Wheeler and from RM95,900 for the long wheelbase variant.

I'm Back! Again..... And the Reasons for more of my absence as well as some rantings!

 Well, I'm still around folks! Lazier than ever which is why things don't get updated. No, the Malaysian automotive industry is technically doing fine without me and it's just that ever since the recent pandemic and the many Movement Control Orders (Three to be exact) has made me change the priorities in my life. These days, its more about me, me, me and me. 

But that isn't new with me actually. It's just that I have enjoyed doing what I like to do the most and since the automotive scene isn't all that great since you are restricted in doing outdoorsy stuff and lotsa masks, protocols, it has been boring. Add the fact that these days I only see cars having their infotainment systems upgraded as the biggest upgrade to a vehicle model ever and that they basically still drive the same as before, car launches can be extremely boring too. 

I mean, cars these days all mostly drive well and don't actually want to kill you. Even crappy small cars drive well and a filled with safety features whether you want them or not. Ten years ago you could buy a crappy looking car with tiny tyres and it would handle terribly (I'm lookin' at you, previous gen Nissan Almera - the current one is a good looking B segment car and drives well too), but these days, even the ugliest looking B segment Hatchback on sale today - I'm lookin' at you Honda City Hatchback drives decently well, is extremely well equipped does not have any handling issues to complain or bitch about. Except that it's ugly. Or uglier in real life. Photos actually do it justice. MAYBE its the choen camera angles. 

Why oh why, aside from ensuring that maximum profitability to the company will you stop selling the outgoing, nicer looking, as practical, as fast, as well equipped good looking Honda Jazz/Fit for the City Hatchback? Look at the current Japan market Honda City and compare to what we Malaysians are getting. The City Hatchback looks so conservatively bland or like some budget family car from te 1950s rather than something modern and truly savvy from its external styling. In terms of equipment, of course we still get the usual stuff, but looks and style wise.....nope. Look at the Jazz/Fit below...modern chic.

‘Bersama Lebih Bermakna’ With Toyota And Raya Promo Till 1st May 2022

 UMW Toyota Motor recently launched their Ramadan/Raya campaign this year with the theme ‘Bersama Lebih Bermakna’. Continuing the celebration nationwide, Toyota will be releasing their Hari Raya film entitled ‘Kota Raya’. The story highlights the struggles of millennials in the city and inspired by the importance of family and quality time spent with them, especially with the travel restrictions Malaysians had to endure these past two years, 

New Lexus NX F-Sport Will Soon Make it Way to Malaysia - Prices Start at RM370K Onwards

An all-new Lexus NX F-SPORT SUV will debut in Malaysia soon, With over 95 percent of its components completely refreshed, the all-new Lexus NX F-SPORT is basically an all new car. 95% is usually more than most new model changes as some manufacturers actually keep a lot of older stamped parts if you think about it. Anyway, NEW LEXUS NX F-SPORT folks. that's all you need to know.

Volvo Car Malaysia to Introduce a New Recharge Plug-In Powertrains in its 90 and 60 Series Along with a New Price Point for All its Vehicles

Volvo Car Malaysia recently announced that they are introducing an improved Recharge plug-in hybrid powertrain in all of its Recharge T8 models and that prices for all Volvo vehicles will be adjusted from 1 May 2022 onwards.

This new powertrain provides more electric range, enabling drivers to drive further on pure electric mode. Basically larger batteries for more range and a higher performance electric motor for more performance for all models notably. 

New Limited Run Porsche 911 Sport Classic Launched - Interested? Head Over to The Local Distributors Now As Europe Deliveries Start in July 2022

Interesting new Porsche 911 variant has been launched. The 911 Sport Classic takes cues from classic Porsche styling in previous 911s and melds them with the current generation of the 911. So you get the best of old and new....aside from the fact that the 911 already takes in a lot of the 911 design overall. What the Sport Classic, in widebody form for this variant, does is be a bit more from the ducktail spoiler that sits on the rear and the alloy wheel design as well as interior trimming like the houndstooth pattern in the door panels and seat centers. 

SCANIA DELIVERS FIRST FULL AIR SUSPENSION NTG IN MALAYSIA TO COMPLEMENT STARRTREK’S FIRST LUXURY CAR CARRIER IN MALAYSIA & 6 OTHER CAR TRANSPORTERS

This is a little interesting in terms of transporting cars but more importantly supercars, in a very discreet manner. Scania delivered the G360A4x2EB New Truck Generation (NTG) with full air-suspension – the first in Malaysia to transport supercars discreetly, to Starrtrek Carriers Sdn Bhd (Starrtrek). You can see in the photo above that this fully air suspended Scania truck has a special fully enclosed vehicle carrying container type rather than the open type car carriers you see usually.

The New 2022 Volkwswagen Tiguan Allspace Elegance and R-Line 4MOTION Launched

Alright folks, over the weekend Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia launched the refreshed for 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace family sized SUV. Do note that for the moment, and maybe for a while, this is the only Tiguan SUV model available in the Malaysian market. The normal, shorter wheel based Tiguan will not be offered. Of course, this means more seating space inside and there are two variants, the new Tiguan Allspace Elegance priced at RM174,745.68 and the new Tiguan Allspace R-Line 4MOTION priced at RM219,443.59.

At MCVE 2022 - Volvo Trucks Malaysia Launches Volvo Connect, a Comprehensive Single Interface System for Volvo Digital Services and Functions

Volvo Trucks Malaysia launched Volvo Connect, a new customer portal that offers a single interface for digital services and functions with a single point of access. This integrates and consolidates connectivity of all truck operations on a single system. The official launch of Volvo Connect was at the Malaysia Commercial Vehicle Expo (MVCE) 2022 (ongoing till tomorrow, 12th March) and was graced and launched by YB Dato Henry Sum Agong, Deputy Minister of Transport during his visit to the Volvo Trucks booth at the exhibition.

Scania Enters Into Partnerships of the first Euro V New Truck Generation (NTG) with Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) and other Sustainable Transport Solutions

On the 10th of March 2022, Scania unveiled sustainable partnerships with operators of the first New Truck Generation (NTG) equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) which have been one of the first Euro V trucks sold in Malaysia together with other sustainable transport solutions. This happened at the (currently) ongoing Malaysia Commercial Vehicle Expo (MCVE) 2022 at MINES, in Sri Kembangan. Scania also showcased more sustainable partners who are joining the journey to achieve Scania’s Science-Based Target of being a sustainable transport provider. The list goes on with B100 FAME-prepared buses/coaches; and the test & drive competition called ‘A Good Driver’ MCVE Edition that is open to the public. MCVE’s Guest-of-honour Yang Berhormat Dato’ Henry Sum Agong, Deputy Minister of Transport witnessed these proceedings.

MAN Truck & Bus Launches the Euro 5 Compliant MAN TGX - The Flagship Model Comes to Malaysia

MAN Truck & Bus (M) Sdn Bhd (MAN Malaysia) had launched the flagship MAN TGX heavy duty prime mover at the Malaysia  Commercial Vehicle Expo (MCVE) 2022. The truck, at the moment brought into the country in fully imported form will eventually be locally assembled, comes in the Euro V (5) emissions standards. It will offer those operators and customers that want a high performance MAN truck with the option of saving the whales at the same time. 

The Malaysia Commercial Vehicle Expo (MCVE) 2022 Opens Till 12th March - Spotlighting a Resilient Transport Industry BUT, Where are the Big Japanese Brands?

The Malaysia Commercial Vehicle Expo (MCVE) kicked off today at the Malaysia International Exhibition and Convention Centre (MIECC). This was the fifth time that MCVE was held, albeit a year or so late due to the lockdowns Malaysia placed to combat the recent pandemic. MCVE is the first and biggest commercial vehicle expo series ever held in Malaysia that focuses on future transport solutions in the commercial vehicle industry. The three-day expo was launched by YB Dato’ Henry Sum Agong, Deputy Minister of Transport Malaysia. And what could be one of the largest automotive shows to be held right before Malaysia opens up to the world again on the 1st of April this year.

Hyundai's Fully Electric Ioniq 5 is Launched in Malaysia - Prices from RM199K Onwards with Three Variants Available

Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) has unveiled its latest electric model, the IONIQ 5 Crossover Utility Vehicle (CUV), with what they say are innovative and sustainable features that are set to redefine the electric mobility lifestyle in Malaysia. There will be three variants with prices starting at RM199K. The launch seems to say that HSDM is pushing foward with making Hyundai a niche player with unique vehicles that aren't just the norm as well as paving the way for the future. 

Price Updates on the Mercedes-Benz compact car range - Slight Increase Across the A-Class, GLA & GLB-Class Cars

A bit of bad news to those looking to purchase a Mercedes-Benz A-Class or a GLA. There is a slight price increase in the A-Class (A200 especially(), GLA and GLB-Class cars sold in Malaysia. These price increases coincide with slightly upgraded specification in the cars like the added ambient lighting option now fitted to the A200 and the improved active safety features in the GLA 200 and GLB 200. 

The W206 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is Available in Fully Imported C200 Avantgarde and C300 AMG-Line Forms for the Moment - The C-Class Gets Larger...and larger.

This news is a little late due to the fact that I actually had some things to do and that my kid is finally sitting for her SPM papers. Being a somewhat dedicated father, as well as other commitments, this has taken priority. And the fact that I am essentially semi-retired these days.... Anyway, yes, Mercedes-Benz has launched the all new W206 generation of C-Class sedans in fully imported form for the moment with the locally assembled variants coming in later. We now get the C200 AV or Avantgarde and the C300 AMG-Line for now at around RM288K and RM330K respectively. Still quite decent prices for what is offered, although the C200 is now back to a 1.5liter turbocharged engine (with some electric motor boost) and the C300 comes with the 2.0liter turbocharged engine.

Volkswagen Tour 2022 at 1Utama Shopping Centre from 23 rd to 27 th February 2022 - View the All New Mk8 Volkswagen Golf There

 After launching the Mk8 Volkswagen Golf last week, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) is having the Volkswagen Tour 2022 with its first roadshow at 1Utama Shopping Centre from 23 rd to 27 th February. The event will run from 10am till 10pm daily at Centre Court, Ground Floor (Old wing). A highlight at the Tour will be the all-new Golf R-Line and GTI, 

The All-New Volkswagen Golf 1.4TSI R-Line is Now Open For Booking - Prices Estimated between RM155K-165K

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has announced that  they are now accepting pre-bookings for the all-new Golf R-Line, with the estimated price range between RM155,000 to RM165,000. The C segment hatchback was unveiled at the Sepang International Circuit as part of the official launch of the eighth generation of the Golf in Malaysia. The car was unveiled together with the iconic hot hatch GTI variant as well as a short preview of the upcoming top of the range, high performance Golf R.

The Volkswagen Golf GTI in its latest Mk8 Version Has Been Launched in Malaysia

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) launched the all-new Golf GTI at the Sepang International Circuit yesterday, the 16th of February 2022.  The all-new 8th generation GTI is the latest in what can be said as ultimate everyday performance car. Powered by a 2.0TSI turbocharged engine coupled with 7-speed wet clutch DSG making 245PS and 370Nm of torque, and then plonked into a practical hatchback body, the Golf GTI is practical yet promising a thrilling and memorable ride for the ones behind the wheel. The best thing is that it is locally assembled, therefore a much better proposition at RM211,689.54 onwards. A nice price drop from the previous MK7.5 version which was priced at around RM250,000.00. 

Ford Ranger Getaways - Customer Experiential Programme from Sime Darby Auto Connexion

 Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC), the official and sole distributor of Ford in Malaysia, had unveiled a new brand experiential programme called “Ford Ranger Getaways" to provide enthusiasts to experience their popular Ford Ranger pickup truck. This will allow customers to discover the potential of the Ranger themselves, through specially designed excursions. In simpler words, you can experience the performance and capability of the Ranger in a safe and controlled environment courtesy of SDAC.

Sisma Auto Opens Its Premium Multi Brand 3S Centre in Glenmarie Shah Alam

The SISMA Jaguar Land Rover showroom in Glenmarie, Shah Alam has been transformed to a new multi brand 3S centre for the automotive brands carried by the company. SISMA Auto recently announced the opening of SISMA Auto Hub, its new premium multi-brand 3S centre for customers to buy, sell or service any brand of luxury car, at what was previously the Jaguar Land Rover 3S centre at Glenmarie, Shah Alam.You basically can buy new and used Jaguar, Land Rover and Volvo cars as well as other premium (mostly certified used ones) makes which they will be selling here as well as get them serviced too. Note the Aston Martin and the classic Porsche 911 in the photograph below.

Scania Malaysia Hands Over the First Batch of 60 New Truck Generation Prime Movers to Infinity Logistics and Transport

Earlier today,  Scania Malaysia handed over the first batch of 60 Scania New Truck Generation (NTG) Heavy Duty Prime Mover trucks to  Infinity Logistics & Transport Sdn. Bhd. (Infinity). The mock key was handed over during a small handover ceremony by Mr Daniel Tan, Sales Director, representing Scania Southeast Asia and  Dato’ Chan Kong Yew, Chief Executive Officer, Infinity in the presence of  Infinity's  Board Members and Management Committee.

PROTON R3 Launches Engine Oil and New Merchandise Line

On 20 January 2022  PROTON’s motorsports arm, R3, launched a new range of lubricants and merchandise with the purpose of reconnecting with their fans and expand the reach of the brand. With the R3 brand is now parked under Proton Global Services (PGS), which is a fully owned subsidiary of Proton Edar,. These new products are a new direction for R3 where they hope to bring its heritage and products closer to the public.

Porsche Malaysia, introduces the new Taycan GTS- The Taycan Between the 4S and the Turbo

Kuala Lumpur. Porsche Malaysia, represented by Sime Darby Auto Performance, has officially introduced the new Taycan GTS for this market. The Taycan GTS is positioned above the Taycan 4S and below the Taycan Turbo variants and it said to be the sporty all-rounder of the model range. It terms of its price, it will start at RM708,000 compared to the entry Taycan which comes in at RM508,000. Of course, this is the Taycan. So entry level and mid-range is still many, many Ringgit.