Honda Malaysia has confirmed that the hybrid coupe concept model, the Honda Prelude Concept will make its official debut at the Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show (KLIMS) from December 5 to 11.
This makes Malaysia the first country in Asia, after Japan, to showcase this hybrid coupe model.
The Honda Prelude was first revealed at the Japan Mobility Show 2023 and has been announced to enter production by the middle of this decade.
According to various reports, this new generation Honda Prelude will be built on the existing Civic platform and will utilize e:HEV hybrid technology with two electric motors capable of generating up to 208 horsepower.
There are also rumors that Honda engineers will pair the hybrid engine with a six-speed manual transmission featuring rev-matching functionality from the Civic RS.
Regardless of the speculation circulating online, it is certain that the production version of the Honda Prelude will officially debut in the second half of 2025, starting with the European market.
Isuzu Thailand has recently announced the arrival of the all-new MaxForce diesel engine, which will be used in the D-Max pickup truck and MU-X SUV.
This mild hybrid engine, with a displacement of 2.2 liters, is built upon the 1.9 liter BluePower engine but is capable of generating up to 161 hp and 400 Nm of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
While Isuzu did not specify the details of the 48-volt lightweight hybrid system integrated into the new engine, it explained that it is designed to provide quieter and more efficient operation.
Additionally, this lightweight hybrid system contributes 55 percent of the torque at the start of driving and offers a 10 percent improvement in fuel efficiency.
With the introduction of this new engine, Isuzu does not intend to completely eliminate the existing 1.9 liter lightweight hybrid engine in the D-Max.
With power and torque nearly equivalent to the standard 1.9 liter engine (148 hp/350 Nm), the Isuzu D-Max MHEV will only be available with a rear-wheel-drive configuration and a six-speed automatic transmission.
Nissan Motor Co. is expected to lay off or transfer approximately 1,000 employees in Thailand by the fall of 2025 as it faces declining profits.
According to sources close to the developments, this move aligns with plans to reduce the global workforce by seven percent, or about 9,000 employees, by fiscal year 2026, which ends in March 2027.
Despite having dominated the Thai market for a long time, the presence of electric vehicle models from the Chinese market appears to have challenged the position of several Japanese automakers.
In recent years, Nissan has experienced a sharp 29.7 percent decline in sales, with only 14,244 vehicles sold in fiscal year 2023.
In Thailand, Nissan’s factory produces four models for the domestic market and export, including the Nissan Kicks SUV.
In addition to Thailand, Nissan is also expected to reduce its workforce by approximately six percent, or about 1,000 employees, in the United States by the end of this year.
Central Auto Distributors Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of PEKEMA, officially launched an electric hatchback model, the Dongfeng Box EV.
Offered in two main variants, the price of this charming EV is as follows:
Dongfeng Box E2: RM100,000
Dongfeng Box E3: RM113,000
Dongfeng Box E3 (white roof): RM115,000
Both variants are equipped with a single electric motor driving the rear wheels, producing 95 PS and 160 Nm of torque, with a top speed of 140 km/h.
The difference between the two variants lies in battery capacity, where the E2 variant comes with a 31.45 kWh battery pack that offers a driving range of 330 km (CLTC cycle data).
Meanwhile, the E3 variant is equipped with a larger 42.3 kWh battery pack, allowing this EV to be driven up to 430 km on a full charge.
The Box EV also supports DC fast charging, allowing the battery pack to be charged from 30% to 80% in just 30 minutes.
As a compact car, the Dongfeng Box EV boasts several unique features, such as a floating roof design, frameless door windows, three-dimensional LED lights, and 17-inch two-tone alloy wheels.
The cabin is fitted with a five-inch cluster display, a 12.8-inch infotainment screen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, a frameless rearview mirror, an ambient lighting system with 32 colors, wireless smartphone charging, a 360-degree camera, and automatic climate control.
In addition to the two-tone interior finish, the Box EV also features a glovebox that opens like a vanity table drawer.
In terms of dimensions, the Dongfeng Box EV measures 4,020 mm in length, 1,818 mm in width, and 1,570 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,663 mm, directly competing with the BYD Dolphin.
The Dongfeng Box EV comes with two airbags and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, traffic sign recognition, and parking assistance.
There are four color options available: white, purple, green, and blue.
Every purchase comes with a comprehensive warranty for the high-voltage battery for eight years or 150,000 km, and a five-year warranty for vehicle parts, also capped at 150,000 km.
Early customers who place orders for the Dongfeng Box model will enjoy special benefits including a portable charger worth RM1,088, cabin storage valued at RM1,250, and the option to choose one of three offers: a one-year charging credit worth RM3,000, a home wall charger valued at RM3,288, or a maintenance package worth RM3,000.
The fake “Dodge Challenger” you see in this article is set to go on sale in the Japanese market starting in 2025.
Only 100 units will be produced, with each unit priced at 8,085,000 yen (approximately RM234,000).
But what exactly is this model?
This is the Mitsuoka M55 Zero Edition, the actual production version of the M55 concept model showcased in 2023 to celebrate Mitsuoka’s 55th anniversary.
It is based on the Honda Civic FL1 and features a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 182 PS at 6,000 rpm and 240 Nm of torque from 1,700 to 4,500 rpm, paired with a six-speed manual transmission.
The evidence is visible in the structure of the side windows on both the left and right sides, while the overall design, including the front and rear, is a creation by Mitsuoka reminiscent of the muscle car Dodge Challenger.
The M55 Zero Edition comes standard with waterfall window visor at the back, aluminum alloy wheels, and genuine leather upholstery complete with “Zero Edition” embroidery.
Notably, the layout of the M55’s dashboard retains the original design borrowed from the Honda Civic, with only the H logo on the steering wheel replaced by Mitsuoka’s logo.
In addition to this rather peculiar M55 model, Mitsuoka has previously introduced several unique models, such as the Viewt based on the Yaris and the Himiko based on the Miata.
The reluctance of luxury car buyers to switch to electric vehicles (EVs) has prompted Lotus to cancel its original plan to become a fully electric brand by 2028.
This change was confirmed by Lotus CEO Feng Qingfeng when he addressed media representatives at the recent Guangzhou Motor Show.
“I believe that fuel-powered vehicles still have a long life cycle,” he stated, noting that most Lotus drivers average 30,000 kilometers per year.
This means that driving range is an important factor for customers, which leads some of them to be less interested in switching to EVs.
According to Qingfeng, range anxiety is not the only issue raised.
“The penetration rate of pure electric vehicles in the luxury car segment is slow because luxury car engines are already powerful, and the driving experience similar to eight-cylinder and twelve-cylinder engines shows strong performance.
“The increase in power offered is not significant, so some customers are not particularly interested in making the switch,” he added.
Feng Qingfeng explained that Lotus will develop “Super Hybrid” technology that features ultra-fast 900-volt charging, as well as an internal combustion engine with forced induction turbo to provide a range of up to 1,094 kilometers.
Currently, Lotus has not disclosed which model will receive this new hybrid system, but it is likely to be better suited for models such as the Eletre and Emeya, rather than sports cars like the Emira.
Bernama news portal reports that faulty electrical wiring system was among the causes of an electric shock incident that occurred on an express bus recently.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke stated that the wiring system in the bus was installed by individuals who did not have authorization from the Energy Commission (EC).
An initial report by the Special Task Force also found that the wiring connection from the distribution box (DB) to the socket wiring was installed incorrectly.
“This bus’ wiring is new, but what this team has identified is that there is irregular wiring making it unsafe, such as socket wiring being installed incorrectly, causing the input and output to be reversed.
“High voltage was output through that socket and when that voltage flowed through the victim’s body, it resulted in death. This is what we have identified as one of the causes of this incident,” he said at a press conference at the Parliament Building today.
The Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) had previously issued a ban on the use of 3-pin and USB sockets in all express buses on November 6, which is effective until new wiring policies and guidelines are issued by the Ministry of Transport.
“Bus operators are encouraged to send the buses for additional wiring inspections and tests that have been accredited by the Energy Commission. If they pass, they can submit them to APAD to reuse those sockets,” he said.
For licensing purposes, APAD also requires both new and existing bus operators to submit the results of reports or certificates of additional wiring inspections by inspection and testing bodies accredited by the Malaysian Department of Standards.
They must also submit reports on the wiring and additional electrical equipment, such as wiring, outlet sockets, and residual current devices used in all commercial vehicles.
At the same time, Loke mentioned that they are developing new additional wiring guidelines for all bus operators, which are expected to be completed within at least six months.
Previously, Lamborghini took a bold step by reviving the iconic Countach, and now Ferrari may take a similar approach with its legendary Prancing Horse model: the F40.
According to a report from Top Gear citing a “very reliable” source, a modern version of the F40 might be resurrected as part of Ferrari’s Icona model series.
Monza SP1
Monza SP2
Daytona SP3
Currently, Ferrari has already produced several Icona models, including the Monza SP1, Monza SP2, and Daytona SP3, all manufactured in limited units.
The Ferrari F40 is a V8 supercar that was produced from 1987 to 1992 and was the final model officially recognized and approved by Enzo Ferrari.
With a design by Pininfarina, the F40 is considered one of the most beautiful supercars that adorned the walls of petrolhead enthusiasts during that era.
To maintain the F40 theme, Ferrari may utilize the hybrid twin-turbo V8 setup from the SF90 Stradale for this latest Icona model.
However, it remains uncertain whether the modern revival of the F40 will be well-received by its fans.
Just look at the reception of the modern Lamborghini Countach, which faced harsh criticism and did not receive recognition from the original Countach designer, Marcello Gandini.
What do you think? Is it justified for this iconic model to be given a new lease on life like its competitor, the Lamborghini Countach?
Polyphony Digital, the developer of the simulation game Gran Turismo 7, has announced Update 1.54 (a size of 32GB!) which is now available for early download by PlayStation 5 users, and for all players starting November 21st.
This latest update introduces five new cars to the game, including a classic 1955 Formula One car, the Mercedes-Benz W196 R.
According to specifications, the W196 is powered by a 2.496 cc inline-eight engine delivering 257 hp at 8,250 rpm and 247 Nm of torque at 6,300 rpm, enabling it to reach a top speed of 290 km/h.
The other four new cars added include the 1992 Ford Escort RS Cosworth, well-known for its whale tail spoiler, the 2023 Porsche Mission X, the 2018 Suzuki Jimny Sierra JC (wider than the Jimny XC keicar), and the 2020 Porsche 911 Turbo S.
Additionally, there is a new Extra Menu featuring a collection of Ferraris added to the Cafe menu, a new rim brand called Rofiform, and new events such as the Jimny Cup (Grand Valley – South), Porsche Cup (Laguna Seca), and Race of Turbo Sportscars (Panorama Circuit).
Jaguar has recently unveiled a brand new identity and logo to signify the start of a full-time EV era for the luxury brand.
According to Jaguar, this reinvention is based on the philosophy of its founder, Sir William Lyons, who is famously quoted as saying, “A Jaguar should not copy anything.”
The four main pillars of Jaguar’s identity overhaul are:
Device Mark: A minimalist logo featuring the Exuberant typeface.
Strike Through: Sixteen horizontal stripes that will be used on upcoming models.
Exuberant Colors: A new color palette for Jaguar models.
Maker’s Mark: Comprising two symbols—the leaping Jaguar image and a monogram featuring the letters ‘j’ and ‘r.’
These four visuals will appear on concept models as well as three promised electric production models set to launch before 2030.
One of the models expected to be launched is a sedan based on a prototype heavily covered in camouflage stickers.
It features a low, long sedan design, reminiscent of a blend between the Porsche Taycan and the BMW i7.
This significantly different design approach from Jaguar’s previous strategies indicates the manufacturer’s readiness to compete with other ultra-luxury brands such as Bentley and Rolls-Royce.
The HI-REV Dream Chaser racing team has announced its driver lineup for the Sepang 1000KM (S1K) endurance race, which will take place this weekend.
Two vehicles will be fielded: a modified Honda City and a modified Suzuki Swift, both designed to meet the technical demands of the 1,000 km race.
The Honda City will be driven by Lee Wai Chong (Malaysia), Aaron Haikal (Malaysia), and Fitra Eri (Indonesia), while the Suzuki Swift will be handled by Daim Hishamudin (Singapore), Hayden Haikal, and Rahul Mayer.
The S1K race is expected to be an excellent platform for the HI-REV Dream Chaser team to showcase the skills of their drivers, the capabilities of their racing machines, and the durability of HI-REV lubricants in endurance racing.
In addition to the S1K, the team is also participating in the Malaysia Championship Series (MCS), where they made history by clinching the overall champion title for the third consecutive year.
Peugeot Malaysia has launched a year-end promotional campaign offering savings of up to RM26,000 for purchases of the latest models before December 31, 2024.
This latest campaign includes Peugeot models such as the 2008, which offers a rebate of up to RM13,500; the 3008, with a rebate of up to RM20,388; and the 5008, with a rebate of up to RM26,388.
Customers looking for extra savings can purchase the 2023 Peugeot 3008 with a rebate reaching RM40,000, or at a promotional price of just RM129,388.
Customers who choose to take home the Peugeot 408 (Premium and GT variants) will receive a two-year insurance support package valued at RM10,000.
Every Peugeot vehicle purchased during this Year End Extravaganza will come with a seven-year warranty or a mileage limit of 200,000 km, along with a complimentary five-year service package.
Malaysians are invited to visit authorized Peugeot showrooms for more information or to test-drive the latest Peugeot models.
Peugeot Malaysia will also have a booth at the Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (KLIMS) 2024, which will take place from December 5 to December 11.
With over one million units sold, the Lexus ES continues to have a dedicated fan base in the Chinese market.
The seventh generation of this luxury sedan from Japan has been updated for the second time, following its first facelift in 2021.
Officially revealed at the 2024 Guangzhou Auto Show, the Lexus ES showcases cosmetic changes, particularly in the front and rear design.
The LED matrix headlights have been reworked, now featuring a double boomerang graphic, while the front spindle grille adopts a design inspired by the Lexus RX model.
Moving to the rear, the LED taillights have also been updated with a dual L-shaped graphic, accompanied by a full-width horizontal light bar that aligns with current trends.
Inside the cabin, the Lexus ES now employs a 14-inch infotainment screen, replacing the original 12.3-inch screen, and is complemented by two knobs for climate and media controls.
The gear shift knob has also been redesigned, alongside new trim and upholstery options.
The Lexus ES continues to offer the same engine options as the pre-facelift model, with the ES 200 variant featuring a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine producing 170 hp.
Meanwhile, the ES 300h variant is powered by a 2.5-liter hybrid engine that generates a total power output of 215 hp.
The seventh generation of the Lexus ES has been on the market since 2018, and the arrival of this second facelift model is seen as a way to keep the offering fresh for several more years before the introduction of a new generation model.
There are rumors that Lexus plans to launch a fully electric sedan for the next-generation ES model.
As we know, Nissan has been one of the early pioneers of electric vehicles for the mass market.
However, relying solely on the Nissan Ariya and somewhat outdated LEAF could cause Nissan to fall significantly behind, especially when competing with rivals like BYD and Tesla.
Recently, the Dongfeng Nissan partnership showcased the Nissan N7 EV, an electric sedan designed specifically for the Chinese market.
Built on a modular platform, this mid-size sedan measures 4,930 mm in length, 1,895 mm in width, 1,487 mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 2,915 mm.
The V-motion design elements are still present in the N7, but with a more modern approach.
It features an LED light strip that spans the width of the vehicle, consisting of 710 LED units, followed by boomerang-shaped headlights, while the rear showcases a light structure composed of 882 OLED units.
The aerodynamic design of the Nissan N7 allows it to achieve a drag coefficient (Cd) as low as 0.208, aided by the sleek design of its door handles.
The Nissan N7 also features frameless door construction.
Although no images of the cabin have been provided, Nissan confirms that the N7’s cockpit will utilize a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295P processing chip, with 256GB of storage and 32GB of memory.
Through a collaboration with Momenta, Dongfeng Nissan will equip the N7 with an advanced driver assistance system named ‘Navigate on Autopilot.’
The arrival of the N7 EV electric sedan is expected to restore Nissan’s reputation in the Chinese market when it goes on sale in the first half of 2025.
Further details, such as specifications and the range of this electric sedan, will only be revealed ahead of the official launch next year.
The Mitsubishi Xpander, despite arriving late to the market, has managed to maintain its position as the best-selling non-national MPV model.
With the launch of its facelift model just a few months ago, Xpander is poised to further strengthen its influence, particularly among the ‘cool dad’ demographic.
For those seeking a family car, a 7-seater MPV is one of the suitable options in Malaysia.
Aside from the Xpander, which other MPV models can be considered?
The Xpander directly competes with three other MPV models, namely the Perodua Alza, Perodua Aruz, and Toyota Veloz, all within a price range of around RM100,000, following the discontinuation of models such as the Honda BR-V, Nissan Grand Livina, and Proton Exora.
So, what sets the Xpander apart from its three competitors?
1. Price
Here is a comparison of the selling prices for the Xpander, Alza, Aruz, and Veloz:
Mitsubishi Xpander: RM99,980
Toyota Veloz: RM95,000
Perodua Aruz: RM72,900
Perodua Alza: RM62,500
2. Dimensions
In terms of size, the Xpander has an advantage due to its larger dimensions compared to its competitors.
Here are the dimensional comparisons for the four MPV models:
Xpander: 4,475 mm x 1,750 mm x 1,720 mm (WB: 2,775 mm)
Veloz: 4,475 mm x 1,750 mm x 1,700 mm (WB: 2,750 mm)
Aruz: 4,435 mm x 1,695 mm x 1,705 mm (WB: 2,685 mm)
Alza: 4,425 mm x 1,730 mm x 1,670 mm (WB: 2,750 mm)
Based on this comparison, the Xpander excels in width and height, as well as having a longer wheelbase, contributing to a more spacious cabin.
3. Cargo Space
All MPV models come with a three-row seating arrangement, but the cargo space provided in the back is relatively limited, and you may need to fold down the third-row seats.
The Xpander offers a standard rear space of 495 liters, whereas other competitors like the Aruz provide only 213 liters.
Alza and Veloz share a similar cargo space of 137 liters each.
4. Engine Performance
In terms of power, all four models are equipped with a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine.
Except for the Aruz, which comes with a rear-wheel drive (RWD) setup, the other three models utilize a front-wheel drive (FWD) configuration.
The three listed MPV models have advantages regarding safety features, leaving a significant gap in comparison to the Xpander.
As standard, the Aruz, Alza, and Veloz are equipped with six airbags, not to mention advanced safety features such as Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), collision warnings, and seatbelt reminders.
Both Alza and Veloz come with additional features like steering correction, front vehicle movement warnings, pedal malfunction warnings, and rear cross-traffic alerts, making these two models particularly appealing.
In contrast, the Xpander offers basic safety features, including two airbags, without any advanced safety technologies.
Regardless of the advantages and disadvantages of each model, we are confident that you have your own reasons for making your choice that aligns with your budget and needs.
The Peugeot 408 features a body shape that deviates from the norm, combining the practicality of a sedan with SUV/crossover elements and a higher ground clearance.
This unique French mixture may not cater to the tastes of the general public.
In addition to its bold design, the Peugeot 408 also comes equipped with unconventional Monolithe 20-inch rims, which appear quite odd upon first glance.
Upon closer inspection, these 20-inch rims have a single plastic structure that covers the five wheel nut holes.
You can watch the tutorial on how to remove this plastic nut cover in the video link below:
Naza Eastern Motors, the sole distributor of Suzuki vehicles in Malaysia, has introduced a new addition to the compact off-road SUV family, the Suzuki Jimny 3-Door Arctic.
The new variant was officially unveiled in conjunction with the third edition of the Jimny Lifestyle Drive convoy, held at Aman Rimba Private Estate in Janda Baik, Pahang, which gathered nearly 50 Jimny vehicles.
The Suzuki Jimny Arctic features several exterior changes, where the front grille structure and unpainted plastic fenders from other models now match the body color.
It is also equipped with door visors, heat-insulating film, rear tire protectors, and more durable mud flaps.
Inside the cabin, you’ll find two-tone Nappa leather seats, floor mats, and a redesigned center display housing.
In terms of power, the Jimny Arctic retains the K15B engine with a displacement of 1,462 cc, capable of generating 101 hp @ 6,000 rpm and 130 Nm of torque @ 4,000 rpm, paired with a 4-speed automatic gearbox.
The starting price for the Suzuki Jimny Arctic is RM167,900. Naza Eastern is also offering a limited-time promotion for early buyers with rebates of up to RM7,000.
Motosikal dan Enjin Nasional Sdn Bhd (MODENAS) has launched a new promotion offering an additional reward of RM888 specifically for kapcai owners who wish to purchase the ZX-25R sports bike.
The campaign, titled “Next Level Trade-In: Unlock RM888 Extra,” is valid until the end of this year (December 31, 2024).
Through this latest campaign, MODENAS will add RM888 to the trade-in value of underbone motorcycles with engine capacities ranging from 110cc to 200cc, regardless of brand. This offer is only applicable for the purchase of the ZX-25R SE and ZX-25RR models.
Customers must complete the trade-in process of their old motorcycles within the specified timeframe. Scooter-type motorcycles are not eligible for this new trade-in offer.
For your information, the Modenas Ninja ZX-25R is powered by a 249 cc inline four-cylinder engine capable of producing up to 51 hp and 22.9 Nm of torque, paired with a six-speed transmission.
The RR variant is particularly special, as it comes equipped with a 37 mm SFF-BP inverted front fork and Showa BFRC lite shock absorbers with preload adjustment.
MForce Bike Holdings, the official distributor of Moto Morini motorcycles, has launched its latest cruiser model, the Moto Morini Calibro 700.
Powered by a parallel-twin 693 cc engine, the Calibro 700 can produce 74 hp at 8,500 rpm and 68 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm.
This power is transmitted to the rear wheel via a belt drive, which offers advantages such as reduced vibrations, fewer rust issues, and increased comfort.
The Calibro 700 features a standout design with a wide windscreen, LED projector headlights, daytime running lights (DRL), a 15-liter fuel tank, and standard left and right storage boxes of 20 liters each.
It also offers a seat height of 705 mm and incorporates materials that enhance riding comfort.
Riding performance is aided by the use of a 41 mm front fork, twin rear shock absorbers, and tires sized 130/70-18 at the front and 180/65-16 at the back.
The braking system includes dual 320 mm rotors and a two-piston caliper at the front, along with a single 255 mm rotor at the rear, supported by a dual-channel ABS system.
Riders can access important motorcycle information through an analog meter equipped with a digital LCD display.
The Moto Morini Calibro 700 is priced at RM35,888, excluding insurance and road tax.
There are two pieces of unfortunate news for Porsche 911 Dakar enthusiasts.
First, all 2,500 units have been sold and each has a designated owner.
Second, the last unit has now been completed.
Yes, the unit you see here is the 2,500th Porsche 911 Dakar, adorned with a custom three-tone livery as requested by its owner from Italy.
This special livery was created by Porsche’s Sonderwunsch division and features three distinct colors: Signal Yellow, Gentian Blue Metallic, and Lampedusa Blue, named after a Mediterranean island.
The wheels of the Porsche 911 Dakar are painted in Signal Yellow, accented with Lampedusa Blue on the rim edges.
Additionally, Lampedusa Blue accents are also applied to the LED headlights of the vehicle.
In the cabin, Signal Yellow accents and stitching dominate the center console, dashboard, and door panels, complemented by the 911 Dakar logo on the seats and matching color on the gear knob.
There are no power changes, meaning the 911 Dakar retains its 3.0-liter turbocharged flat-six engine producing 475 hp, paired with an eight-speed PDK transmission and an all-wheel-drive system.
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