All posts by Hanif Su'ib

Someone who loves driving manual cars but prefers riding an automatic scooter. Maybe it's an age thing.

X-Wedge set to debut in Malaysia: A new motorcycle brand inspired by American lifestyle

When it comes to high-displacement cruisers and iconic American lifestyle brands, Harley-Davidson is the name that comes to mind.

However, did you know that there is a new brand poised to compete with Harley-Davidson in the Malaysian market? Introducing X-Wedge.

For your information, X-Wedge is a motorcycle brand that originated in China under the auspices of Hisun Motors.

Hisun Motors initially started as a company responsible for producing powersports products, including utility task vehicles (UTVs) and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs).

But with X-Wedge, the focus has shifted toward creating larger displacement cruiser models reminiscent of Harley-Davidson.

Interestingly, KISKA Design is responsible for the design and styling of the X-Wedge models— the same company that developed designs for GasGas, Husqvarna, and KTM motorcycles.

At the X-Wedge showroom located in Chongqing, we had the opportunity to closely examine a range of models with engine displacements ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 cc, including:

  • Ranger RX2000
  • Rover RL2000
  • Voyager VS2000
  • Walker WR1000
  • Vanguard VT2000

The majority of X-Wedge models share a common V-Twin engine with a displacement of 1,976 cc, capable of producing 102 hp at 5,000 rpm and 158 Nm of torque at 3,000 rpm.

Meanwhile, the Walker WR1000 features a liquid-cooled V-Twin engine with a displacement of 975 cc, generating 80 hp at 7,500 rpm and 80 Nm of torque at 5,500 rpm.

In addition to its range of large-displacement motorcycles, X-Wedge also produces various lifestyle products, including helmets, leather jackets, riding boots, as well as accessories and customization services for motorcycle appearances.

This premium brand is expected to make its entry into the Malaysian market around July or August, through MForce Bike Holdings.

We have been informed that MForce is working to establish four X-Wedge exhibition centers located in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Johor Bahru, and Sabah.

KAMAX Cub X set to enter Malaysia, expected in August or September, priced below RM10,000

The official distributor of the Kamax brand, KTNS Holdings Sdn Bhd, is expected to introduce another model of motorcycle to the Malaysian market, namely the KAMAX Cub X 150.

This announcement was made during a recent media tour of the KAMAX exhibition center located in Jiulongpo, Chongqing.

Unlike the previously launched Super Pro motorcycle, the Cub X features a 150 cc engine that produces 9.1 hp at 7,500 rpm and 10.5 Nm of torque at 5,000 rpm.

As a cubcross machine, the Cub X comes with more aggressive specifications, including tubeless off-road tires, 17-inch spoked rims, a single seat covered in leather, and a cargo rack in place of a passenger seat.

The suspension system of the Cub X consists of 26 mm telescopic forks in the front, followed by dual shock absorbers at the rear, each offering a wheel travel of 88.9 mm and 91.4 mm, respectively.

Additional features include:

  • LED lighting system
  • LCD cluster display
  • 3.8-liter fuel tank
  • Chrome side mirrors
  • Engine protector
  • Two-channel ABS system
  • Saddle height of 790 mm
  • Smart key system

According to KTNS, this model is expected to enter the Malaysian market around August or September, with a price tag below RM10,000.

This positions the KAMAX Cub X to compete with models in its class, such as the Yamaha PG-1 and Aveta Ranger Max 130.

For more information, visit www.kamaxgroup.com.

Cyclone RE600, 58 hp/55 Nm, modern retro image, priced at RM25,888

MForce Bike Holdings is set to launch a modern retro scrambler, the RE600, complementing the models mentioned in the previous article (RT3E, RX650 & RA600).

Like the RA600 model, the RE600 also gets a 550.4 cc parallel-twin engine producing 58 hp at 8,500 rpm and 55 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm.

This motorcycle is capable of reaching a top speed of 170 km/h.

The RE600’s suspension system consists of upside-down (USD) front forks followed by a single shock absorber at the rear.

Stopping power is provided by twin brake rotors at the front and a single brake rotor at the rear, assisted by ABS and traction control system (TCS).

The retro image of this motorcycle is contributed by a round LED front lighting unit, slim LED rear light, LED turn signals, and a small windscreen.

All important information can be read via the full-color TFT display screen.

Other features include 17-inch rims, a 20-liter fuel tank, and a seat height of 800 mm.

The selling price of the Cyclone RE600 is around RM25,888 when it is launched in the middle of the year.

Cyclone RA600 cruiser showcased, priced at RM25,888

The Cyclone brand’s offerings for the Malaysian market are further enhanced this year with the RA600 cruiser, carrying a price tag of RM25,888.

The RA600 is powered by a liquid-cooled, 550.4 cc parallel-twin engine that produces 58 hp at 8,500 rpm and 55 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm.

That power is channeled to the rear wheel through a belt drive system.

The suspension setup of this motorcycle consists of telescopic forks at the front and a single shock absorber at the rear.

Featuring an aggressive appearance, this cruiser comes with front and rear LED lighting systems, a twin exhaust system, exposed handlebars, and a fairly simple round LCD digital screen panel.

Other features include 16-inch rims, mirrors at the handlebar ends, a 14.5-liter fuel tank, and a seat height of 725 mm.

MForce has announced that the selling price of the RA600 will be around RM25,888 when it is launched by the middle of this year.

Cyclone RX650 adventure touring bike set to enter Malaysia, estimated price below RM30k

In addition to the Cyclone RT3E, MForce also showcased the 650cc Cyclone RX650 adventure touring motorcycle, which is slated for the Malaysian market.

The RX650 is powered by a liquid-cooled, 650cc parallel-twin engine that produces 70 hp at 8,500 rpm and 62 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm.

The RX650 features inverted telescopic (USD) front forks and a single rear shock absorber.

The braking system includes dual front rotors and a single rear rotor, supported by ABS and traction control (TCS).

Additionally, the RX650 is equipped with features such as LED lighting, cornering ABS, a quickshifter, cruise control, blind-spot detection radar, and front and rear ride-recording camera systems.

Other features include a 20-liter fuel tank, 17-inch rims, an 820 mm seat height, an adjustable windscreen, and a full-color TFT display screen.

It is understood that the selling price of the Cyclone RX650 will start below RM30,000 when the model officially enters the Malaysian market.

MForce unveils Cyclone RT3E classic scooter, priced at RM12,888

Mforce Bike Holdings Sdn Bhd, during a visit to Zoshen factory  with Malaysian media representatives, showcased several upcoming Cyclone motorcycle models.

Among these models was the Cyclone RT3E, a scooter that evokes a classic Vespa-like aesthetic.

In terms of power, the RT3E is equipped with a 247cc single-cylinder engine that produces 26.15 hp at 8,500 rpm and 24.5 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm.

The scooter features front and rear disc brakes, supported by ABS and traction control (TCS).

Other features include a 10-liter fuel tank, a seat height of 750 mm, a digital instrument panel, LED lighting, a windscreen, left and right crash bars, a front rack, and classic whitewall tires.

The Cyclone RT3E will be priced at RM12,888 for the Malaysian market.

Toyota Land Cruiser was a favorite among thieves in Japan last year

We’re accustomed to hearing about Toyota’s success, particularly regarding sales performance and customer reliability.

However, in Japan, Toyota reportedly topped the charts for the most stolen vehicles throughout 2024, dominating the top ten spots!

According to data from the Japan General Insurance Association, the Toyota Land Cruiser (including the Prado model) has topped the list for the fourth consecutive year.

In 2024, there were 688 reported Land Cruiser thefts, accounting for 27.5 percent of every 100 vehicles stolen.

This means more than one in four vehicles stolen were Land Cruiser models.

The Alphard minivan took second place with 289 cases, followed by the Toyota Prius (235) in third. The Lexus LX ranked fourth (109), the Lexus RX fifth (89), Toyota Crown (62), Toyota Hiace (43), Toyota Vellfire (38), Lexus LS (34), and finally, the Toyota Voxy (21).

According to the data, Land Cruiser thefts in 2024 increased significantly compared to 2023 (383 cases), contributing to a total of 2,499 theft cases overall.

This Suzuki Jimny 6×4 can be a unique alternative to the Mercedes-AMG G63 6×6

This isn’t a computer-generated image; it’s a real, six-wheeled Suzuki Jimny project available for purchase as a unique addition to a personal collection.

The Suzuki Jimny 6×4 started as a three-door 2019 Jimny, imported directly from Japan.

The idea to create an alternative to the AMG G63 6×6 came about after the original owner saw a computer-generated image online.

Mocho Fabrication, a small shop in Broadway, England, was tasked with transforming the three-door Jimny into a head-turning, six-wheeled head turner.

Using original components from Suzuki, the builders successfully added custom panels to the rear, including a third axle and a pair of fender flares to match the original Jimny styling.

The entire exterior of this Jimny 6×4 is coated in Nardo Grey.

Inside, the workshop fitted a two-tone black/light gray trim to the seats and door panels, along with a Kenwood infotainment system.

According to the eBay listing, this Jimny 6×4 has only 11,075 km on the odometer, making it appear as pristine as if it had just left the showroom.

Unfortunately, this formidable-looking Jimny still relies on a naturally aspirated (NA) 1.5-liter engine producing 103 hp and 134 Nm of torque.

It retains the original four-wheel drive (4WD) system, paired with an automatic gearbox.

However, the owner plans to offer a Garrett turbo upgrade kit, including a manifold and intercooler, which could increase horsepower to 170 hp and 270 Nm.

Looking for an SUV alternative to the AMG G63 6×6?

The asking price starts from £45,000 (RM213,211). It’s a significantly cheaper option if you want a very stylish 6×6 SUV on the road.

Voge DS900X hits the Malaysian market, price RM49,998

MForce Bike Holdings Sdn Bhd has launched the Voge DS900X adventure motorcycle for the local market, carrying a price tag of RM49,998 (excluding road tax and insurance).

In terms of specifications, the Voge DS900X is powered by a 895 cc twin-cylinder engine that delivers 93.9 hp at 8,520 rpm and a torque of 95 Nm at 6,000 rpm.

There are four riding modes: Rain, Road, Sport, and Enduro, along with a standard quickshifter feature.

The suspension system consists of an inverted telescopic fork at the front, followed by a single shock absorber and a unique aluminum swingarm.

For stopping power, the motorcycle is equipped with Brembo brakes featuring dual 305 mm rotors at the front and a single 265 mm rotor at the rear, complemented by a two-channel ABS system.

Other features include a 17-liter fuel tank, a seat height of 835 mm, LED lighting units including auxiliary lights, an adjustable windscreen, and a smart key system.

All information can be displayed on a seven-inch color TFT screen.

For convenience and comfort during rides, this machine comes with USB-A and USB-C charging ports, a 12V socket, an adjustable windscreen, heated handlebars, a heated seat, a 45-liter top storage box, and two 35-liter side panniers.

Rider safety has also been prioritized with the inclusion of crash bars, handlebar protectors, a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), cruise control, and a front-facing ride recording camera.

Voge Malaysia offers an unlimited mileage warranty for a period of two years with every purchase of the DS900X.

Volvo EX90, XC90 facelift set to launch soon

Volvo Car Malaysia has announced that two models from the 90 series SUV lineup will be arriving soon: the electric SUV EX90 and the plug-in hybrid SUV XC90.

Currently, Volvo Malaysia has not announced the launch dates for either model; however, further information will be disseminated through the official website.

 

Volvo EX90

First unveiled in 2022, the Volvo EX90 is designed to be the safest vehicle ever produced by Volvo.

This seven-seater electric SUV is equipped with active safety technology aimed at reducing and preventing accidents.

It is also the first Volvo vehicle to use LIDAR technology, the first model to employ advanced computing technology, and the first equipped with hardware for full autonomous driving.

Malaysia is among the first Asia-Pacific markets to receive the Volvo EX90, following its introduction in Thailand.

 

Volvo XC90

This will be the second facelift of the Volvo XC90, introduced in 2024, featuring several cosmetic changes primarily focused on the front fascia and the infotainment system within the cabin.

It’s worth noting that the Volvo XC90 PHEV was the first plug-in hybrid vehicle manufactured in Malaysia, launched in 2016.

According to Volvo Malaysia, both flagship models offer outstanding driving range, safety, and practicality for family use.

The Volvo EX90 will join Volvo’s electric vehicle lineup, which currently includes the Volvo EX30, Volvo XC40 Recharge Pure Electric, and the Volvo C40 Recharge Pure Electric.

Interested customers can find more information on the website: https://www.volvocars.com/my/ex90-electric.

After 18 years, Nissan finally ends GT-R sales in Japan

At the end of February 2025, Nissan Japan announced that it will terminate sales of the GT-R model (R35 generation) after almost two decades on the market.

In a statement posted on its official website, Nissan said, “We have received many orders for the Nissan GT-R and have now finished accepting orders for the planned production quantity. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all our customers for their support since its release in 2007.”

The Nissan GT-R R35 has long ceased to be offered in several key markets due to compliance issues, such as safety, noise, emissions, and more.

Markets such as Australia and New Zealand stopped selling the GT-R in October 2021, while Europe and the UK followed suit in March 2022.

The Nissan GT-R was first unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2007, and since then, it has undergone several upgrades and facelifts.

It is powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine (VR38DETT) with an initial power output of 473 hp, increasing to 565 hp for the 2023 facelift model, while the Nismo version boosts that figure to 600 hp.

What will happen to the next generation of the Nissan GT-R? Will it continue the legacy left by the previous GT-R?

Or will it transform into what is envisioned through the Hyper Force Concept model?

Proton, Ezz Elarab launch CKD Saga in Egypt

Proton’s International Sales Division has announced the launch of the locally assembled (CKD) Proton Saga in Egypt, coinciding with the 20th anniversary of their partnership.

This achievement comes just three months after the inauguration of the CKD factory at Ezz Elarab Elsewedy Automotive Factories (ESAF) by Malaysia’s Prime Minister, YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, in November of last year.

According to Dr. Li Chunrong, the Chief Executive Officer of Proton, “Egypt’s strategic location and large population provide exceptional growth opportunities for Proton.”

“In 2024, Proton’s export sales increased by 31.1 percent, and Egypt played a crucial role in this achievement.”

He further explained that in addition to the Proton Saga, the company will explore opportunities to launch a range of products, including SUVs and NEVs, depending on market conditions.

The ESAF CKD factory was built with an investment of US$50 million and has an annual production capacity of 40,000 units (two shifts).

According to Eng. Amr Abu Al-Saud, Chief Executive Officer of Ezz Elarab Elsewedy Investment (ESI), mass production is set to begin in the first quarter (Q1) of 2025.

The 20-year partnership between Proton and Ezz Elarab Automotive has successfully sold over 18,000 vehicles in the Egyptian market.

Peugeot opens its first 3S centre in Kuching, Sarawak

Peugeot Malaysia has announced the opening of its first 3S centre (sales, service & spare parts) in the state of Sarawak, located in Kuching.

Operated by Heng Lian Enterprise Berhad, this 4,200-square-foot 3S centre features a showroom that can accommodate four vehicles, a delivery area, and offers maintenance, repair services, and warranty support.

The establishment of this 3S centre is seen as a means to meet the needs of the Peugeot driving community while further strengthening the brand’s commitment to customer satisfaction.

According to Daniel Gonzales, Chief Operating Officer for ASEAN & General Distributor of Stellantis, “Our strategy to strengthen the presence and growth of PEUGEOT in Malaysia involves expanding our dealer network, with East Malaysia playing a crucial role in this expansion effort.

“We are pleased to collaborate with Heng Lian and welcome their addition to our distribution network as the first 3S Centre. We will also continue to expand our presence in the East Malaysian market.

“To maintain the highest standards of expertise, the after-sales maintenance team at PEUGEOT Kuching has undergone comprehensive training, both online and in-person, in collaboration with Stellantis Malaysia. This commitment also includes all future staff to ensure that all PEUGEOT vehicle owners receive the best service and support.”

The principal dealer of PEUGEOT Kuching, Sylvia Ng, stated, “PEUGEOT Kuching is not just a showroom; it represents our commitment to providing an exceptional ownership experience for our customers.

“Our investment in after-sales services, from maintenance to warranty support, ensures that both new and existing Peugeot customers will receive the best care. With a trained team and a strategic location, we are ready to set a new standard in customer service and automotive excellence.”

Peugeot customers can contact Stellantis customer service at 1800-18-STLA, or alternatively, reach out directly to the Peugeot Kuching dealer at 016-2171464.

Porsche Macan EV: a more practical Taycan – first drive

The Porsche Macan has entered its second generation with the launch of this compact SUV in early 2024.

Like it or not, if you are interested in acquiring an entry-level SUV from Porsche, you will only be presented with the entirely electric Macan lineup.

This move is quite bold for Porsche, considering that the Macan was previously the best-selling model from the brand, surpassing its larger sibling, the Cayenne, globally.

The Porsche Macan EV—does it offer another EV experience just like any other electric vehicle on the road? Or does it still retain the distinctive Porsche identity?

Recently, we were invited by Porsche Malaysia to experience the driving dynamics of the Macan EV, specifically the Macan 4 variant, which carries a price tag of RM445,000.

 

Specifications

The Porsche Macan 4 is powered by two electric motors, producing 387 PS and a torque of 650 Nm, allowing for a 0-100 km/h acceleration in just 5.2 seconds.

The top speed is limited to 220 km/h, which is quite fast for an EV.

With a 100 kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery pack, the Macan 4 can travel up to 613 km on a full charge.

The Macan EV also supports AC charging at 11 kW and DC charging up to 270 kW, enabling owners to charge the SUV’s battery in just 21 minutes (from 10% to 80%).

 

Exterior

Compared to the first-generation Macan, the Macan EV boasts larger dimensions (+58 mm in length, +11 mm in width, +26 mm in height), accompanied by a longer wheelbase (+86 mm).

These changes contribute to a more robust appearance, as well as a more spacious and comfortable cabin (which we will discuss later).

Moreover, we can describe the exterior design of the Macan EV as a larger Taycan, featuring stylish LED daytime running lights, a sporty roofline, and a full-width LED rear light strip.

Unlike the Taycan, entering and exiting the Macan cabin is easier, aided by the large frameless door openings.

 

Cabin

If the exterior resembles the Taycan, the layout of the Macan EV’s cabin is not significantly different from that of Porsche’s electric sedan.

For the Macan 4 variant we tested, it is equipped with a curved 12.6-inch digital cluster display, a 10.9-inch central screen, and an impressive head-up display featuring augmented reality technology.

What we appreciate about the Macan EV’s cabin is the similar driving experience to that offered by the Taycan sedan.

The steering wheel retains its round shape, complete with a rotary knob for changing driving modes and a small gear knob located adjacent to the central screen, along with separate climate control buttons positioned on the center console.

This means you no longer need to dive into the infotainment screen menu just to lower the temperature or increase the airflow.

A unique feature of the Porsche Macan EV is the presence of an analog-digital clock perched on the dashboard—a detail that many luxury car manufacturers have overlooked.

 

Practicality

As mentioned earlier, practicality is the main highlight of the Macan EV—especially when compared to the Taycan sedan.

In addition to easier entry and exit, the seating provided is also quite comfortable, holding the driver and front passenger securely, especially when this electric vehicle is pushed a bit aggressively.

The larger dimensions contribute to a more spacious and comfortable cabin, allowing for more headroom and legroom.

However, it is unfortunate that rear passengers may have to sit somewhat upright.

Most importantly, the Macan EV still offers a cargo space of 540 liters, or up to 1,348 liters when the second-row seats are folded down.

This is ample space for storing items, such as groceries during early-month shopping trips.

The absence of an internal combustion engine in the front provides a frunk (front trunk) of 84 liters—extra space for use if the rear cargo area is already filled.

 

Driving Experience

The Macan 4 comes equipped with two electric motors, meaning it features an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system.

With precise and quick throttle response, the 387 PS and 650 Nm of power can easily deceive the driver into thinking they are handling an SUV weighing over 2 tons.

What makes the Macan EV significantly better is its sharper and more precise handling, offering more feedback that communicates directly with the driver, making the driving experience feel more assured.

Driving the Macan EV often reminds me of the experience with the Taycan and Taycan Cross from some time ago.

Finally, the Macan 4’s suspension—even without the adaptive air suspension found in the Macan 4S and Macan Turbo—still provides a good balance between sporty handling and comfort for everyday use.

It remains stable on straight highways and does not make the driver feel uneasy when encountering winding roads.

 

Extra: Experience Losing Control at Sepang

After enjoying a drive across several highways, we were taken to the Driving Experience Center (DEC), located right next to the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit.

Here, two sessions were provided: a slalom session with a high-speed handling session, along with another session to test driver skill on a hydraulic skid plate.

For a vehicle branded as Porsche, it was not difficult for us to maneuver the Macan EV through the slalom course.

The precise and sharp steering feedback, combined with the effective throttle pedal that controls power delivery from the battery to the wheels, and the suspension’s effectiveness in keeping the SUV stable during minimal body roll—even when driven aggressively—contributed to this ease.

However, during the second session, we experienced a loss of control in a Porsche valued under half a million for the first time.

This was the opportunity for the Porsche Macan EV to demonstrate the effectiveness of its stability control system when faced with a sudden loss of grip.

In my first attempt, I could manage the SUV’s loss of control at low speed, but I failed in my second attempt, which was conducted at a higher speed.

Why did I fail? Because the Macan EV I was handling hit the ‘barrier wall’ represented by a row of water fountains.

Despite feeling dissatisfied, it was a valuable lesson learned.

For drivers who are cautious like myself, the likelihood of experiencing a loss of control on the road is nearly zero.

However, such situations can still occur, especially when faced with heavy rain and slippery roads.

This underscores the need for every driver to possess the knowledge and skills to handle their vehicle in emergency situations.

 

Who Is the Macan 4 Suitable For?

Among the four main Macan variants offered in Malaysia, we believe the Macan 4 is more suitable for those looking to venture into owning a Porsche SUV.

While it features a twin electric motor setup, the power of 387 PS and 650 Nm is not excessively high; it remains reasonable and easy to control for a daily-use vehicle.

Furthermore, the standard AWD system not only contributes to handling and stability at high speeds, but it also ensures the required grip for all four wheels in various weather conditions and road surfaces.

With a range of 613 km and a reasonably light foot on the accelerator, you wouldn’t need to stop frequently to charge the Macan 4, even for trips that exceed two marhalahs.

Most importantly, for an electric SUV, the Macan 4 still manages to offer a balance between dynamic and sporty driving while not sacrificing comfort and practicality for everyday use.

 

Specifications of Porsche Macan 4

Configuration: Two electric motors
Power: 387 PS/650 Nm
Acceleration: 0-100 km/h in 5.2 seconds
Top speed: 220 km/h
Battery pack: NMC 100 kWh
Range: 613 km
DC charging: 270 kW, 10-80% in 21 minutes
AC charging: 11 kW, 0-100% in 10 hours
Price: RM445,000

2026 Volvo ES90 debuts this March, 800V platform, 700 km range

Following the EX90 and EX30, Volvo appears ready to launch another electric vehicle, this time in the form of the sedan model ES90.

Built on an 800-volt electric architecture, the Volvo ES90 is claimed to offer a range of up to 700 km based on WLTP cycle data, which is 86 km farther than the range of the EX90.

With this 800V architecture, the Volvo ES90 allows for shorter charging times.

Using a 350 kW DC fast charger, the ES90’s battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in just 20 minutes.

Based on the teaser images provided, the Volvo ES90 features the proportions of a three-box sedan, but with a more aerodynamic roofline that slopes toward the rear.

Other notable features include additional LED light units on the rear pillars, physical side mirrors complete with camera units, and a LIDAR module housing on the roof.

In addition to LIDAR, the Volvo ES90 will be equipped with various components, including five radar units, eight cameras, twelve ultrasonic sensors, and Safe Space Technology supported by artificial intelligence (AI).

The Volvo ES90 will also be the first model from Volvo to come with dual Nvidia Drive AGX Orin systems, providing the most advanced computing capabilities.

It is understood that Volvo will also update the ICE variant of the Volvo S90 as an alternative for those who remain skeptical about electric vehicles—similar to the approach taken with the EX90 and XC90 models previously.

 

Based on leaked images circulating on social media, the facelifted Volvo S90 will feature a redesigned front end, resembling the changes made to the facelifted XC90.

More information is expected to be announced ahead of the official introduction of the ES90 next month.

JKR upgrades FT29/FT32 intersection in Kota Warisan to address flood issues

The Public Works Department (JKR) of Malaysia has announced the temporary closure of the FT29/FT32 intersection (Kota Warisan-Bandar Baru Salak Tinggi-KLIA) from February 24 to December 10, 2025.

This closure is necessary for the construction of a new four-lane road spanning 1.2 kilometers, the upgrading of the traffic light intersection, and completing remaining works on the bridge across the Labu River.

To address the recurring flooding issues in the area, the existing 250-meter road from the FT29/FT32 Federal Intersection heading towards BBST and KLIA, as well as the 150-meter road heading to Kota Warisan, will be upgraded.

 

According to JKR, the upgrade works will be carried out in phases, during which the right turn lane at the Kiwa Intersection will be completely shut down for the entire duration of the project.

This means that users traveling from BBST to Kota Warisan will need to follow an alternative route at the traffic lights after the Sepang IPD (District Police Headquarters) leading to the KIPMall intersection.

Meanwhile, users traveling from Putrajaya and Kota Warisan to KLIA will need to use the Bandar Serenia Toll Intersection.

Users are advised to adhere to the safety sign instructions and directions from authorities as needed.

Toyota Gazoo Racing committed to keep engines, manual transmissions alive

High-performance vehicles, internal combustion engines, and manual transmissions.

This is the recipe that Toyota Gazoo Racing aims to uphold for an extended period, signaling good news for its fans worldwide.

In a report by CarSales AU, Toyota Australia executive Sean Hanley stated, “Internal combustion engines and manual transmissions will continue to be maintained for the long term.”

This approach does not mean that Toyota is completely sidelining modern technology for its Gazoo Racing models.

Toyota has previously explored the possibility of replacing petrol with hydrogen for internal combustion engines, even testing this concept extensively through participation in major races.

Currently, Toyota offers four high-performance models (GR Yaris, GR Supra, GR86, and GR Corolla), and this family of performance vehicles is expected to be joined by new models such as the GR GT3, Celica, and MR2, according to various sources.

There are also reports that Toyota is collaborating with Mazda to develop a sports car featuring a straight-six engine — could this be a replacement for the existing GR Supra?

Whatever Toyota has in store for the future, Hanley wants the Gazoo Racing sub-brand to be better recognized for “the sound, smell, and feel of internal combustion engines.”

Isuzu D-Max 4×2 1.9L MT Low Ride officially launched, priced from RM92k

Isuzu Malaysia today officially announced the arrival of a new, more affordable variant of the Isuzu D-Max pickup truck: the D-Max Double Cab 1.9L 4×2 Manual Low Ride.

Priced at RM92,199.20 (on-the-road excluding insurance), the D-Max Low Ride is aimed at providing a more cost-effective and efficient transportation solution for business operators, service providers, or companies with large vehicle fleets.

The D-Max Low Ride is powered by a durable and fuel-efficient 1.9-liter diesel engine (code RZ4E-TC) that produces 150 PS and 350 Nm, paired with a six-speed manual transmission.

Compared to the existing D-Max, the D-Max Low Ride features a lower ground clearance, providing a cargo loading height of just 780 mm from the ground, thus facilitating the loading and unloading of goods.

At the same time, the cargo space in the back can accommodate a payload of up to 930 kg.

Standard features of the D-Max Low Ride include Splash White color, halogen headlights, fog lights that also serve as daytime running lights (DRLs), 16-inch alloy wheels with 215/70R16 tires, power windows, and electrically controlled side mirrors.

The cabin space offers fabric-upholstered seating, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, analog gauge cluster combined with a 3.5-inch MID screen, a 12V socket, and a single DIN audio player with support for various music codecs.

In terms of safety, the D-Max Low Ride includes features such as an anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brake force distribution (EBD), brake assist, electronic stability control (ESC), traction control system (TCS), hill start assist (HSA), and downhill control (HDC).

The Isuzu D-Max Low Ride is now available at all official Isuzu showrooms nationwide and comes with a five-year warranty or a mileage limit of 150,000 km.

Tesla V4 Supercharger Station opens at The Gardens Mall, Kuala Lumpur

Tesla has announced the opening of a Tesla Supercharger station located at The Gardens Mall in Kuala Lumpur.

The station features four V4 Supercharger units and one destination charger, providing convenience for electric vehicle (EV) owners who need fast charging while shopping.

According to Tesla Malaysia, the V4 Supercharger can support up to 250 kW, allowing Model 3 and Model Y vehicles to add a range of up to 282 km in just 15 minutes.

The charging cost is only RM1.13 per kWh, and owners will incur an idle fee of RM4.00 per minute if the Supercharger station is full.

To date, Tesla has operated 14 Supercharger stations (64 superchargers) and 15 destination charging stations (70 chargers) across Malaysia.

The destination charging facilities are free for all Tesla vehicle owners until a date that will be announced later.

Gracshaw launches limited edition Demon Slayer helmets, priced at RM490

Local helmet manufacturer Gracshaw has recently launched a limited edition collection of helmets in collaboration with the popular anime franchise Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba.

The collection features four designs inspired by the four main characters from the anime: Tanjiro Kamado (green/black), Nezuko Kamado (pink), Kyojuro Rengoku (flame motif), and Tengen Uzui (sword motif).

Based on the open-face Gennex model, these limited edition helmets emphasize comfort and safety, incorporating features such as a dual ventilation system, a double D-ring locking mechanism, and compliance with standards set by SIRIM.

Gracshaw is offering only 3,000 units of this Demon Slayer edition helmet, with each helmet priced at RM490 and available in sizes ranging from M to XXXL.

Each purchase will come with an exclusive helmet bag, a Demon Slayer sticker set, and Demon Slayer-themed user manual.