Yesterday, PROTON celebrated its 40th anniversary of incorporation with the launch of the company’s newest model, the Proton X90 SUV. The new large sized SUV also marks the brand entry into the New Energy Vehicle (NEV) market as the .X90 is powered by a 1.5liter turbocharged petrol engine with a 48volt Electric Motor Synergy System. It is a mild hybrid and will give you 190ps and 255Nm of torque. My thoughts are at the end of this article together with the specs of the X90.
TC Subaru Sdn Bhd, the exclusive distributor of Subaru vehicles in Malaysia, on the 3rd of May, introduced four new 2023 Subaru Forester models for the Malaysian market. These are the 2.0 i-L EyeSight, 2.0 i-L EyeSight GT Lite, 2.0 i-S EyeSight, and 2.0 i-S EyeSight GT Edition. All of the variants come equipped with an upgraded activesafety system called EyeSight 4.0. EyeSight 4.0 is more intuitive than the previous Subaru EyeSight systems.
Here is Perodua's statement on the recent debacle that resulted from the Toyota group manupulation of crash testing of which affects the new Perodua Axia compact hatchback. According to the official statement below, the UN-R95 certification is still basically valid and there would be no recall of the vehicle.
This issue was brought up by the new CEO of Toyota where he uncovered that the test vehicles were tampered for side impact crash testing.
Earlier today, Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) officially launched the Hyundai Creta for the Malaysian market. The Creta compact SUV is only offered in a single Plus variant, which means that it is a feature-packed SUVwhich sits right smack in the very, very competitive B-segment SUV here. The Hyundai Creta is priced at RM149,888, on-the-road before insurance for Peninsular Malaysia. Yes, Hyundai's entry level B segment SUV now costs over RM150k and to help you decide after already noticing that it is very well specced, HSDM are throwing in a free extended warranty of 5 years/300,000 km as well as 3 years/50,000 km free service for our first 150 buyers. Oh, we managed to try it out also as HSDM had a few units for us to jump into on a short test drive around Ara Damansara and the Subang Airport area. So do read on for details on what we think about the car in this launch article.
Porsche Malaysia under their Malaysian distributor, Sime Darby Auto Performance recently introduced the Sime Darby Racing Team, which is scheduled to make its debut at the 2023 Porsche Carrera Cup Asia (PCCA) this weekend. The new racing team has been formed in partnership with Earl Bamber Motorsport (EBM) and will have a young Malaysian race driver Nazim Azman at the wheel. The Malaysian team will race with Malaysian batik-inspired livery on its 911 GT3 Cup car, and will be competing in PCCA PRO category.
Hyndai Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) has announced that they have officially opened the order books for the Hyundai Creta compact B-segment SUV at all its authorised sales outlets throughout Malaysia as well as on its online booking platform Cl!cktoBuy (https://www.hyundai.com.my/clicktobuy/).
From the HSDM provided link, you can see that the Malaysian specified 2023 onwards Hyundai Creta will be front wheel drive and powered by the Smartstream 1.5liter petrol engine that makes 115ps and 143.8Nm torque. Decent enough for an urban compact SUV. It will also be specced with 17inch 215/60 series tyres and able to hit 0-100kmh in 12seconds and hit 170kmh. About right for something that makes that much power.
Yesterday, PROTON followed suit with the Government’s initiative to help reduce the cost of living for lower income groups by launching the 2023 PROTON Rahmah Campaign. Officially launched by Yang Berhormat Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Minister of International Trade and Industry (MITI), the campaign encourages Proton owners to send their vehicles to authorised service centres for a free 40-point safety check and a service package priced at only RM150.
Recently, Perodua introduced a special service package to all Perodua Axia and Perodua Bezza owners in order to reduce the impact of rising prices while at the same time promoting best vehicle maintenance and safety for the upcoming Aidilfitri celebration. Perodua's Auto Rahmah Package 2023 is in response to the newly launched AUTO RAHMAH Package by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), under the auspices of the Malaysian Government'sPAYUNG RAHMAH Programme which aims to ease the burden of the people through various cost of living aspects.
So Perodua is giving out their special service package for the two above mentioned vehicles, called Perodua Auto Rahmah 2023 and comprises of a 30% discount on the total invoice for parts and labour cost. To be entitled for this campaign, Axia and Bezza owners are required to call for an appointment at the nearest Perodua service centre. Do note that this campaign is only available from 12 April to 15 May 2023 (Terms and Conditions apply) and there its back to normal or whatever is on offer at the authorised outlets at that time.
The All-New Proton X90 is touted as PROTON’s first New Energy Vehicle and the third SUV in Proton's X-series model line-up. It is also their first large sized SUV that has 6 or 7 seats and bookings for it had opened on 8 April 2023 at all PROTON 3S/4S outlets. There are also exclusive city preview sessions before the official launch serve which is stated down below so that potential customers can view the actual car beforehand. Update -Launch article is here folks - https://motoring-malaysia.blogspot.com/2023/05/proton-launches-x90-suv-at-their-40th.html
Last Friday, Volvo Car Malaysia officially opened their first Volvo Certified Damage Repair Centre in the Northern region of Peninsular Malaysia in partnership with their dealer, iRoll Ipoh Sdn. Bhd. This is Volvo Car Malaysia's newest and to date, largest Volvo Car Damage Repair Centre in Malaysia. Located in Juru, Penang, the facility is equipped with modern and state-of-the-art systems that comply with the latest green technology, ensuring end-to-end high quality body repair and paint service.
On the 6th of April 2023, PHS Automotive Malaysia (PHSAM) launched its #AudiOnTheMove aftersales campaign, to ensure that Audi owners enjoy a worry- free driving experience this upcoming holiday season. In a nutshell, it is an Exclusive offer for vehicles 5 years and older, complimentary vehicle inspection at any Audi Centre and complimentary Audi Condition Check for parallel import Audi vehicles.
So it covers the servicing needs for older Audi cars here in Malaysia, which is a good thing as there are many Audi owners are real enthusiasts that hold on to their cars for a longer length of time.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia under Mercedes-Benz Financial has launched the all-new Mercedes-Benz metal card in partnership with Maybank. This will include exclusive offers for all Mercedes- Benz Malaysia customers nationwide. The premium brand aims to create added value for its customers and lead the luxury lifestyle segment beyond automotive excellence. The launch was done at the launch of the New Mercedes-Benz GLC-class for the Malaysian market last friday.
The new Mercedes-Benz GLC has come to Malaysia. At the moment only one variant of the GLC luxury SUV has been launched -The GLC 300 4MATIC in CBU or fully imported form unit is now available as a mild hybrid with 48-volt technology and a second-generation integrated starter- generator. This single variant will be offered for the moment and will cost RM429,888 on the road before insurance.
In conjunction with the festive Hari Raya season as well as celebrations of its 60th anniversary of Continental being the first tyre manufacturer in Malaysia, Continental Tyre Malaysia invites Malaysian motorists try out their newly launched Total Confidence Plan (TCP, Extra Warranty Program) and receive e-wallet rewards for those looking to purchase brand-new tyres from Continental. You can get up to RM200 in your e-wallet if you buy Continental tyres under this program.
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Shell Fleet Solutions recently entered into a strategic partnership to support DHL Express Malaysia’s sustainability journey in reducing emissions across their fleet operations. DHL Express has decided to use Shell Fleet Solutions’ Accelerate to Zero (A2Z) programme for their cause. The programme brings together Shell’s full range of consultancy services and innovative solutions in a tailored programme to help fleet customers chart their decarbonisation course to net-zero emissions.
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During this holy month of Ramadan, people in the Klang Valley, Penang and Johor Bahru who do not own a vehicle but want to avoid public transportation during the pre-Iftar or the before breaking of fast rush can take advantage of GoCar’s car sharing service as an alternative. The on-demand mobility-as-a-service platform is offering one free hour of usage (capped at RM14) for any GoCar Share (Round Trip) booking of two hours or more. Use the promo code "GOBERBUKA" in their app.
Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) recently unveiled the refreshed 2023 Volkswagen Golf GTI equipped with IQ. Drive which is Volkwagen's Driver Assistance System (DAS). The hot hatch now offers updated new features such as wireless charging and embroidered GTI logo on the driver and front passenger seats. All of this for the recommended retail price of RM244,990. In a nutshell, you get more active safety features in the latest version as well as some trim upgrades inside and out. The drive, like any Mk8 Golf GTI will be as sublime as ever.
Yesterday, the 28th March of 2023 PROTON previewed the long awaited X90 SUV to the media over in its Shah Alam styling studio. This is a 7 seat mild-hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) model. This is PROTON's entry into the New Energy Vehicle (NEV) market and starts them on their path to reducing carbon emissions by adopting green engine technology towards setting a new standard in sustainable mobility.
You'd think the some relationships are a mere ten or so years old. But when you delve deeper, it could be over half a century old. Even here in Malaysia. This is the relationship between Kontena Nasional (KN) and Scania, where these two have had a strong partnership for over 50 years, with over 400 units delivered. The latest chapter is the newest handover of 16 Scania G410A6x2NZ trucks to KN as part of their fleet enhancement comprising of a total of 46 Prime Movers this year. According to KN, these new trucks should improve reliability, fuel efficiency, reduce CO2 emissions, and increase payload frequency for the company.
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Yesterday, the 22 March 2023, Volvo Trucks Malaysia (Volvo Trucks) held a small media event where the Managing Director, Anthony O'Connell spoke on the company's 2022 performance and what Volvo Trucks have planned in the near future. For 2022, Volvo Trucks had registered an 8.5% growth in volume of units delivered to customers. This was spurred by pent-up demand following the post-pandemic period and the Malaysian success echoes the truck manufacturer’s global performance which delivered an all-time high number of its trucks to customers while simultaneously increasing market share in 41 countries.
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Sometime after 8.00pm yesterday UMW Toyota Motor had unveiled the fourth-generation Toyota Vios at a media launch event in Kuala Lumpur. This popular subcompact sedan has been a bestseller in the Malaysian non-national car market since its introduction in 2003 with more than half a million units sold so this new model boasts improved performance, quicker acceleration, and new technology, making it an even more compelling choice for customers looking for a reliable, efficient, and affordable car. Two variants will be offered, the 1.5G and the 1.5E of which are priced at RM95,500 and RM89,600, respectively.
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Motul Asia Pacific recently announced the launch of their latest engine lubricant or oil, the Motul 8100 Power. Now available in Malaysia, the official launch of this new lubricant was made at the 2023 Sepang 12 Hours Endurance race, where Motul is the official lubricant supplier.
BMW Malaysia has added two new variants to the BMW 3 Series line-up with the unveiling of the New BMW M340i xDrive and New long wheelbase BMW 330Li M Sport. This new releases comes following the unveiling of three new BMW 3 Series variants in January of this year. These two new variants highlights the versatility of the mid-sized premium executive sedan (I remember the ol' days when the 3 Series was considered a compact premium!!!) is further demonstrated with the introduction of its performance and long-wheelbase variants.
Taking centre stage tomorrow evening is the launch of the All-New Toyota Vios. Mostly new with its new interior and exterior design incorporating new technology (lighter and longer in wheelbase) and features, set to attract, excite and inspire. All of these coupled to a reliable 106hp 1.5liter engine and a 7 Speed cvt transmission should make it a decent drive in all aspects.
(NOTE - LAUNCH ARTICLE is here - https://motoring-malaysia.blogspot.com/2023/03/4th-generation-toyota-vios-launched-two.html)
“Raikan Beza Mu” is the tagline for the newest edition of Art Of Speed Malaysia (AOS). The popular "Kustom & Counter Culture" exhibition for 2023 has more halls and even more activities. This follows a record-breaking crowd response from AOS 2022,. This year, the event will be held at the Malaysia Agro Exposition Park, Serdang (MAEPS) on 29 July 2023 (10:00 am – 7:00 pm) and 30 July 2023 (10:00 am – 7:00 pm). So keep the date free if you are interested in going folks.
Earlier today, PROTON unveiled the newest stamping line at its Tanjung Malim plant during an official visit by the Menteri Besar (Chief Minister) of Perak, Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad that was hosted by Datuk Seri Syed Faisal Albar, Chairman of PROTON. The new RM140million stamping line has machines that can stamp out parts using up to 2,500-tonnes of pressure and is capable of producing 50 unique components that will be used by Proton vehicles. The stamping line is the largest in Malaysia and has the potential to reduce the company’s annual use of imported parts by about 115,000 units
On the 3rd of March 202,BMW Motorrad Malaysia today introduced the New BMW R nineT 100 Years. Limited to only 1,923 units worldwide, the motorcycle is a tribute to the founding year of BMW Motorrad and only ten units have been made available to the Malaysian market. This exclusive roadster is priced at RM 129,500.00 on the road excluding insurance. The New BMW R nineT 100 Years’ reduced design language sets the scene with a compact tank and upright seating position, as well as high-quality materials and stylish design elements. As expected from BMW Motorrad.
Recently, the Volvo XC90 SUV has earned a 2023 TOP SAFETY PICK+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The announcement comes after the IIHS strengthened the requirements for its TOP SAFETY PICK (TSP) and TOP SAFETY PICK+ (TSP+) awards. The new, tougher, criteria demand better side crash protection, improved pedestrian crash prevention systems, and the elimination of subpar headlights from the field of qualifying vehicles and the XC90 midsized SUV was deemed to be one of the safest in its category for all those mentioned above.
Scania, the First Heavy Commercial Vehicle Manufacturer in Malaysia to be accredited as the National Dual Training System/Sistem Latihan Dual Nasional (NDTS/SLDN) Centre by Ministry of Human Resources Malaysia has produced its first batch of 10 apprentices that had successfully passed the Sijil Kemahiran Malaysia Tahap 2 (SKM Level 2) from Institut Kemahiran Tinggi Belia Negara, Dusun Tua - IKTBNDT .
On the 27th of February 2023 PROTON announced the official opening of its Regional Parts Centre in Kuching, Sarawak. This is part of Company’s continuous effort to enhance after sales service over in East Malaysia where the newly completed facility can reduce the lead time for parts delivery by at least 30%, thereby allowing PROTON a boost to its after sales service over in East Malaysia. This should allow Proton vehicles to be serviced much faster if there are cases of major repairs or servicing.
A few days ago, Continental Tyres launched its newest product in its line of Generation 7 tyres, the ComfortContact CC7. This new series is a comfort-focused tyre that seeks to make every journey truly enjoyable for both drivers and passengers. This new tyre follows the launch of the UltraContact UC7 in August 2022 and was designed with comfort, like its namesake, in mind.
The CC7 replaces the ComfortContact CC6. The ComfortContact CC7 provides enhanced safety on the road though significant improvements in handling and braking without sacrificing on comfort and low noise levels. The new all season CC7 tyre was designed for a wide range of vehicles and is available from 13” to 16” tyre size fitments. Drivers looking for a truly enjoyable driving experience can also choose the ComfortContact CC7 for their mini-compact, compact, mid-size and MPVs as Continental has sizes for these vehicles.
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Volvo Buses showcased the first ever fully built Volvo B11RLE 6x2 double deck coach for the Malaysian market and had inviting customers to experience first-hand a Ride and Drive event earlier today. This comes after introducing the Volvo B11RLE 6x2 chassis here recently. YB Anthony Loke Siew Fook, Transport Minister of Malaysia, and His Excellency Dr. Joachim Bergstrom, Ambassador of Sweden to Malaysia, graced the event held at the Volvo Group Malaysia Shah Alam office.
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