Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia officially opens the third Mitsubishi 3S (Sales, Service & Spare Parts) center in the state of Terengganu.
The opening of this new 3S center expands the Mitsubishi Motors dealer network to 61 outlets nationwide.
Managed by Lajina Motors Sdn Bhd, this 3S center also showcases the Mitsubishi Motors brand identity, in line with the global message “Drive Your Ambition”.
Spanning 3,600 square feet, the 3S center also features a customer waiting area complete with Wi-Fi, a dedicated children’s area, and a comprehensive service center with multiple service bays available.
The 3S center is located at Lot 3309-3310, Jalan Padang Luas, Taman Pelangat 2, 22000 Jerteh, open from Saturday to Thursday (8:45 am-5:15 pm) and closed every Friday.
According to CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia, Shinya Ikeda stated, “Considering MMM is planning to launch several new models, we want to ensure our customers have broader coverage and accessibility to exhibition centers and service centers near them.
“Lajina Motors has been with Mitsubishi since 2015, and this is their second 3S outlet in Terengganu. With comfortable facilities and advanced equipment, I am confident that our customers in Jerteh are in good hands,” he added.
Zeekr Malaysia has recently announced the upcoming launch of a premium MPV model, the Zeekr 009.
It is set to offer stiff competition in the premium MPV segment, especially against the popular Alphard/Vellfire twin models that are well-known among the Malaysian populace.
For this article, we will share the differences in specifications between the Zeekr 009 model and premium MPVs such as Alphard/Vellfire, Lexus LM, and Kia Carnival.
Dimensions
The majority of the models mentioned have dimensions exceeding 5 meters.
Starting with the Alphard/Vellfire, it measures 5,010 mm in length, 1,850 mm in width, 1,950 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,000 mm.
Another twin, the Lexus LM, has longer dimensions (5,125 mm) and is wider (1,890 mm) but maintains the same wheelbase length.
The Kia Carnival, on the other hand, presents much larger dimensions, measuring 5,155 mm in length, 1,995 mm in width, a wheelbase of 3,090 mm, but lower in height (1,740 mm).
The largest? Certainly the Zeekr 009.
With dimensions measuring 5,209 mm in length, it is also wider (2,024 mm) with a longer wheelbase (3,205 mm). Its height is around 1,848 mm, meaning it is slightly lower compared to the Alphard/Vellfire.
Engine
This is an interesting comparison, as all five premium MPV models are equipped with different powertrains.
The least powerful is undoubtedly the Toyota Vellfire with a 2.5-liter NA engine generating 180 hp and 235 Nm of torque.
The Toyota Alphard, on the other hand, comes with a 2.4-liter turbo engine producing 274 hp and 430 Nm of torque, while the Lexus LM is equipped with a similar capacity engine but with a hybrid setup, delivering a total power of 371 hp and 550 Nm of torque.
The Kia Carnival features a 2.2-liter turbo diesel engine that has been offered for quite some time, producing 199 hp and 440 Nm of torque.
The Zeekr 009, on the other hand, is an EV with two electric motors generating 603 hp and 693 Nm of torque, an all-wheel-drive system, and a 116 kWh battery pack with a range of 582 km (WLTP data).
Due to the powerful electric motors, this MPV is capable of accelerating from 0-100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds. It is very suitable for transporting VIPs who have difficulty keeping to a schedule in Malaysia.
Price
One aspect considered by buyers in Malaysia is the selling price.
The most affordable in this list is undoubtedly the Kia Carnival, with the base variant available for as low as RM198,500. The most expensive version of the Carnival bears a price tag of RM259,888.
Shifting to the Toyota/Lexus trio, the cheapest among the three models is the Toyota Vellfire, with a starting selling price of around RM438,000.
The Toyota Alphard is slightly more expensive, priced at RM538,000, while the much more premium Lexus LM can be obtained for RM1,228,000 to RM1,468,000!
The Zeekr 009 seems to be more comfortably positioned in the middle, with an estimated selling price below RM370,000, with the actual selling price to be known only after its official launch.
Boon Siew Honda updates the offerings of two popular models, the Honda ADV160 and Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES, with new color options.
For the Honda ADV160, the scooter can now be chosen in Matte Green and Matte Red as alternatives to the existing white and grey colors.
Meanwhile, for the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin, buyers can opt for Matte Iridium Gray Metallic, as well as Pearl Glare White featuring updated graphics.
The basic specifications of both vehicles remain the same as the previous models.
The Honda ADV160 is powered by a single-cylinder 157 cc engine producing 15.8 hp @ 8,500 rpm and torque of 14.7 Nm @ 6,500 rpm, assisted by ABS brakes and Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC).
Prices start from RM13,549 for the two new colors, while the existing colors maintain their price at RM13,249.
The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES utilizes a liquid-cooled parallel-twin 1,084 cc engine generating 100.6 hp @ 7,500 rpm and torque of 112 Nm @ 5,500 rpm, with a 7 percent increase in torque compared to the previous offering.
Additionally, it features a 19-inch front wheel for better on-road and off-road handling, adjustable saddle height (820 mm or 840 mm), and a redesigned seat for improved riding support.
Prices start from RM119,388 excluding road tax, insurance, and registration fees.
Boon Siew Honda announced the official opening of the Honda BigWing Damansara showroom on the 12th of October.
Managed by Fast Bikes Sdn Bhd, this exclusive showroom for Honda’s large motorcycles employs an open concept that offers a variety of Big Bike Honda models, including touring motorcycles up to adventure models.
This fifth Honda BigWing facility also includes a service center and a comfortable waiting area, making it a comprehensive one-stop center for Honda Big Bike enthusiasts and owners.
Located at 3, Jalan 13/1, Section 13, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Honda BigWing Damansara is open every day from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Customers are welcome to visit and view the showcased models, or schedule a service appointment through the Honda X platform or simply contact 03-79609007 for any assistance.
R&A Greentech Solutions Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary under the Sendok Group, has introduced another electric-powered commercial truck, the JAC i40, to the local market.
The JAC i40 is available in four body configurations, namely wood cargo, refrigerated box, corrugated box, and standard box van.
In terms of dimensions, the i40 measures 5,300 mm in length, 1,750 mm in width, 1,990 mm in height with a wheelbase of 3,100 mm, and a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of around 3,700 kg.
It is powered by a single 141 hp electric motor delivering 300 Nm of torque, with power sourced from a 63.75 kWh battery pack.
The range is approximately 230 km according to WLTP data, or up to 300 km at a maximum speed of 60 km/h.
The JAC i40 supports AC charging (20-100% in 8.5 hours) and fast DC charging at 90 kW enabling 20-80% battery charging in just 40 minutes.
Inside, the JAC i40 features amenities such as a 5-inch TFT cluster screen, a seven-inch central display with Bluetooth support and a reverse camera, and a rotary knob in the center.
Safety features include ABS, EBS, Hill Start Assist, Electronic Stability Control, and Low-Speed Pedestrian Alert System.
For the Malaysian market, the selling price of the JAC i40 starts from RM155,600 (on the road without insurance) for the base version and can go up to RM223,800 for the refrigerated box version.
Good news for 1:64 scale car collectors, as Hot Wheels has just announced the release of a new variant for the Proton Saga model.
The white car will be featured in the 2025 Case B series and is expected to hit the market in the near future.
According to a post on Facebook, Hot Wheels is also organizing a box-opening session at the LG2 Blue Concourse Sunway Pyramid from October 11-13.
This marks the second variant produced by Hot Wheels, following the initial red variant that was introduced last year.
The white Saga still features the same design elements present in the red Saga, including the original Saga logo, Hot Wheels logo, and the Aerodisc wheel design.
In the United States, Honda and Acura are conducting a recall campaign involving a total of 1,693,199 vehicle units, according to Automotive News.
Based on information from the NHTSA agency, there is a problem with the installation process of steering components, resulting in excessive internal friction. This condition can cause some owners to have difficulty in controlling their vehicles.
Honda suspects that the steering rack issue only involves one percent of the vehicles, or around 17,000 units out of the total number recalled.
The steering problem was first detected in September 2021, and since then, Honda has received a total of 10,328 warranty claims.
The NHTSA agency has also received 13 reports of accidents related to the steering issue, including 11 cases filed by drivers who were unable to control their vehicles properly. Fortunately, no injury incidents have been reported.
Affected models include the Acura Integra (model years 2023-2025), Honda Civic (2023-2025, including hybrid models), Honda Civic Type R (2023-2025), Honda CR-V (2023-2025, including the 2025 CR-V FCEV), and Honda HR-V (2023-2025).
Honda USA plans to replace the worm gear spring component with a new one, and add grease to reduce friction on each recalled vehicle at no additional cost.
Volvo Car Malaysia will be hosting the Volvo Executive Car Sales event at Symphony Square, Petaling Jaya on October 19 and 20, from 10 AM to 6 PM.
More than 50 units of Volvo SELEKT cars will be showcased with prices starting as low as RM165,000, including units exclusively used by management.
Interestingly, all cars for sale have mileage not exceeding 15,000 km, with the lowest recorded at about 1,200 km only.
However, all car models come with an unlimited mileage guarantee, Volvo Service Inclusive for EV models, digital services, 24-hour roadside assistance, and a high-voltage battery guarantee similar to new cars.
This is also the last chance for wagon enthusiasts to get the Volvo V60 Recharge model, as its production has been discontinued by Volvo Car Malaysia.
This wagon model offers 462 hp with fuel consumption as low as 1.4 liters/100 km in hybrid mode, in addition to offering an electric range of up to 90 km.
Two Volvo EVs will also be showcased at the Volvo Executive Car Sales event, namely the Volvo C40 and the Volvo XC40 Recharge Pure Electric.
Great Wall Motors Malaysia (GWM) Malaysia has officially launched the hybrid SUV model 2024 Haval H6 HEV today.
It is powered by a hybrid powertrain unit, consisting of a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine (150 PS/230 Nm) paired with an electric motor (177 PS/300 Nm), generating a total power output of 243 PS and 530 Nm.
The power is transmitted to the wheels through a Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) with two-speed ratios.
Only one variant is offered, namely the H6 HEV Ultra, equipped with features such as the ‘Star Matrix’ grille structure, LED matrix headlights, and glossy black 19-inch alloy wheels.
Meanwhile, the cabin boasts amenities such as dual-zone climate control, rear air conditioning vents, leather-wrapped seats, power tailgate, wireless device charging slot, panoramic sunroof, head-up display screen, and an audio system with eight speakers.
The cargo space measures 560 liters and can extend to a capacity of up to 1,485 liters when the second-row seats are folded flat.
In terms of safety, the Haval H6 HEV comes with six airbags, a 360-degree surround-view camera system, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, traffic jam assist, rear cross-traffic alert, lane change assist, and parking assistance system.
The selling price of the 2024 Haval H6 HEV starts from RM139,800, complete with a full vehicle warranty for seven years/200,000 km, a 10-year engine warranty or a limit of one million km, as well as an eight-year or one million km warranty for HEV components.
In addition to the offer of a free five-year service package and a RM3,000 discount for bookings made by October 20, 2024, existing GWM vehicle owners can also enjoy an additional rebate worth RM3,000.
The 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon Kuala Lumpur (TASKL) will take place from November 8th to 10th at the Malaysia International Trade & Exhibition Centre (MITEC).
For this year’s event, the organizers will provide a space of 170,000 square feet to display over 300 modified cars, including 15 special cars brought from Japan.
The TASKL 2024 event will witness the reappearance of the Top Secret icon, Smoky Nagata, as well as several famous tuners such as Veilside, Trust/Greddy, Option, San Ei Corporation, and the diecast manufacturer Tomica.
In addition to exclusive merchandise, TASKL 2024 will also feature the 1:64 scale chameleon-colored Inno64 Nissan GT-R R33 Nismo 400R model, which can be purchased online with each ticket purchase or during the event (while stocks last).
As we have reported previously, visitors have the opportunity to take home a lucky draw prize in the form of a Honda Civic Type R FK8 Mugen.
The process is simple; visitors only need to purchase a ticket and make an additional payment of RM28 to qualify for entry into the lucky draw session.
To find out the ticket prices for TASKL, please click the link below:
In conjunction with its 80th anniversary, Kia UK has unveiled a restomod project of the 1990s small hatchback bearing the Kia Pride EV brand.
This compact car was originally a rebranded version of the Ford Festiva, and was also marketed as the Mazda 121 model.
While it used to be equipped with 1.1 and 1.3-liter internal combustion engines, this latest restomod project has replaced these powerplants with a zero-emission powertrain unit producing 107 hp and 235 Nm of torque.
Utilizing expertise from Electrogenic, Kia has retained the original five-speed manual transmission, albeit with a performance-oriented clutch kit.
Despite the stated changes, the overall weight of this Pride EV is only 870 kg, which is 20 kg heavier than the original model.
For comparison, the modern EV6 from Kia, featuring a single electric motor with 225 hp, has a curb weight of around 2,065 kg.
The Kia Pride also offers several driving mode options.
In Eco mode, it limits power to 60 hp/118 Nm with a 0-100 km/h acceleration in 11.8 seconds, similar to the original ICE model.
The Auto driving mode (80 hp/176 Nm) offers a more modern EV driving experience, along with suitable regenerative braking function for urban use.
The Sport mode allows for a 0-100 km/h acceleration in eight seconds.
These sporty characteristics are well hidden as a key part of this car’s sleeper appeal, including the retention of the original 12-inch tire size and authentic rim caps.
Furthermore, the charging socket is also discreetly hidden behind the original fuel filler cap, which can be locked from the outside.
Other than the standard exterior appearance, Kia has only upgraded a few aspects, such as the White Pearl exterior paint, front and rear lights, and new upholstery for the cabin space.
Additionally, the original instrument cluster is still retained, with the only change being the fuel gauge, which has been converted into a battery capacity indicator.
One noticeable drawback of the Kia Pride EV is its limited range, approximately 193 km only.
This is because, unlike modern EVs, the Kia Pride EV has been fitted with two battery packs each with a capacity of 10 kWh (one in the front and one under the trunk floor).
With a charging power of 3.3 kW, it takes about six hours to fully charge.
Considering the level of craftsmanship exhibited by the Kia Pride EV, it would not be surprising for local manufacturers to embark on a restomod project using iconic models such as the Proton Saga Knight or Perodua Kancil.
The tighter current emission regulations have forced Toyota to shorten the lifespan of the existing rear-wheel-drive GR86 model to make way for a replacement model.
According to a report from the Japanese media Best Car Web, the new generation Toyota GR86 will replace the existing 2.4-liter naturally aspirated Subaru flat-four engine with the G16E-GTS three-cylinder engine found in the GR Yaris and GR Corolla.
This ‘heart’ change is seen as a game-changer for the GR86, considering the purest Toyota sports car has relatively low horsepower (228 hp) compared to its competitors. For comparison, the GR Yaris and GR Corolla can produce 300 hp each.
In addition to the engine swap, Toyota will also add a hybrid system to the new GR86 with a setup similar to that found in the off-road SUV model Land Cruiser Prado (250 Series). Overall, this new GR86 can unleash more than 300 hp to power the rear wheels through a choice of manual or automatic transmission.
This is not the first time news of a powertrain change for the GR86 has been reported. According to the same source last year, Toyota was said to be replacing the Subaru platform to make way for the shorter Lexus IS chassis.
Certainly, the new generation Toyota GR86 with its hybrid engine setup seems poised to close the existing power gap in the compact sports car segment and at the same time delight its fans worldwide.
Apart from the launch of the MINI Aceman electric crossover model, MINI Malaysia at the same time presents another new model, the MINI Cooper S 5-Door.
With larger dimensions (+160 mm) and a longer wheelbase (+72 mm), the Cooper S 5-Door offers a more practical and versatile alternative compared to the 3-Door Cooper model. It also retains the sporty character of the three-door model.
The exterior features a clamshell hood structure, round LED headlamps, octagon grille, 18-inch alloy rims, triangular-shaped rear lights, and a classic bee-sting radio antenna.
Similar to the Aceman, this Cooper S 5-Door showcases an interior design that emphasizes the use of more eco-friendly recycled materials. Features include sports steering wheel, a 240 mm round OLED central screen, ambient lighting system, head-up display screen, and not forgetting the Harman Kardon surround sound system.
The MINI Cooper S 5-Door provides advanced safety features as a standard, including functions such as Lane Change Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Frontal Collision Warning, Rear Traffic Cross Warning, Active Cruise Control, and Parking Assistant Plus function.
In terms of power, the MINI Cooper S 5-Door is powered by a 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo engine producing 204 hp, with the ability to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.8 seconds.
The driving dynamics of this MINI Cooper S 5-Door are enhanced with specific attention to the chassis, suspension system, and more precise steering, followed by the GO-KART driving mode for a sportier experience.
The estimated selling price of the MINI Cooper S 5-Door starts from RM293,000, excluding service packages and additional guarantees worth RM10,400.
MINI Malaysia today officially launched the latest electric crossover model, MINI Aceman, for the local market.
In terms of size, the MINI Aceman is positioned between the MINI Cooper and MINI Countryman models, but still retains the go-kart-like handling characteristics, thanks to its low center of gravity.
It is powered by a single electric motor producing 218 hp/330 Nm, with acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 7.1 seconds.
The 54.2 kWh battery pack allows a range of up to 406 km on a full charge (WLTP data), making it suitable for urban use and weekend driving.
The MINI Aceman supports 11 kW AC charging, as well as fast DC charging up to 95 kW, allowing the battery to be charged from 10-80 percent in just 30 minutes.
This electric crossover is also equipped with automatic battery preconditioning to ensure optimal charging performance and allow users to set the charging time according to their needs.
Externally, the MINI Aceman features an octagonal grille structure, LED headlights, 19-inch rims, roof rails, and body protection plastic that adorns the wheel arches.
Entering the cabin, the MINI Aceman features a 240 mm OLED circular screen powered by MINI Operating System 9, the use of recycled materials for upholstery, a head-up display screen, and a Harman Kardon surround sound system.
The MINI Aceman also provides the GO-KART driving mode, where the throttle becomes more responsive for a more sporty driving experience.
Loaded safety features include Lane Change Warning, Speed Limit Info, Frontal Collision Warning with brake intervention, and Parking Assistant Plus features such as Active Park Distance Control, Reversing Assist Camera, and Remote 3D View.
The selling price of the MINI Aceman starts from RM213,888 with monthly installments as low as RM2,311 through Easy Drive financing based on a 75 percent loan for a five-year period.
The New MINI Aceman will also be showcased at the MINI Roadshows in all major cities, kicking off at The Exchange TRX from the 9th to the 13th of October 2024.
Starting in 2025, a driving school in Colorado will be using a lineup of Toyota Gazoo Racing sports cars, namely the GR Supra, GR86, and GR Corolla for winter driver education program.
This high-performance driving program will offer courses lasting one or two days, where each student will be given driving instructions on a track covered in ice and snow in Steamboat Springs.
The GR lineup will be provided in both manual and automatic versions to allow drivers from various backgrounds to experience handling these high-adrenaline machines for themselves. However, for the regular driving program, the school will still maintain the use of Toyota all-wheel-drive vehicles such as the Camry sedan, Highlander SUV, and 4Runner.
Opened since 1983, the Bridgestone Winter Driving School has been responsible for providing driving instructions to nearly 100,000 drivers to be more confident driving in low-grip road conditions.
For us, a great program like this should be extended to Malaysians, especially sports car and electric vehicle (EV) owners, so they can learn to handle high-powered cars in various weather conditions.
Although Malaysia does not have a snow season, these skills can be applied to driving on slippery roads, especially considering the recent high rainfall in our country.
The fact is, many people can afford fast cars, but only a few have the awareness to upgrade their own skills.
Boon Siew Honda has announced a limited-time campaign for enthusiasts of the popular Honda RS-X motorcycle.
Starting from the 7th to the 31st of October, customers who purchase a Honda RS-X will receive RM300 worth of Touch ‘n Go e-wallet credit.
The TnG e-wallet credit can be used to purchase fuel, allowing RS-X owners to enjoy journeys of over 7,000 km.
To qualify for the mentioned benefits, customers only need to register their motorcycles during the campaign period and then proceed to the Honda X to receive the RM300 e-wallet credit directly.
The Honda RS-X is still powered by a 149cc single-cylinder engine capable of producing 15.8 hp and 13.6 Nm of torque, paired with a six-speed gearbox.
In addition to being recognized as an Energy Efficient Vehicle (EEV), the Honda RS-X has also achieved a five-star rating in MyMAP for its standard single-channel ABS feature.
Despite Honda’s overall sales figures being difficult to surpass those of the Japanese giant Toyota, at the very least, Honda has managed to prove that it can be the best-selling model there.
The model in question is the Honda N-BOX kei car.
Yes, this boxy car is not only popular among kei car enthusiasts here, but it also holds a significant name and can outshine its competitors.
According to a report from Response JP, the Honda N-BOX recorded sales of 102,226 units during the first half of the fiscal year 2024 (April-September), marking an increase of 1.8 percent compared to the same period last year.
This makes the Honda N-BOX the best-selling car for the third consecutive year!
The second place is held by the kei car Suzuki Spacia (80,179 units), followed by the Toyota Corolla (77,030 units), and the Toyota Yaris (73,052 units).
Impacted by the safety scandal issue, the popular car Daihatsu Tanto dropped three ranks to sixth place, with sales of 53,177 units, marking a decrease of 26.3 percent.
An interesting point coming from the Land of the Rising Sun is the rather slow transition rate to EVs, where EVs only make up 1.3 percent of new vehicle sales, marking a decrease of 0.6 percent.
The electric sedan Ora 07, or also known as Ora Lightning Cat, may well be a unique EV package in the Malaysian market at this time.
It brings a package of aesthetics inspired by million-dollar models, while still being fairly affordable.
We’ve already shared a test drive review before, but in this article, we will discuss three things that are less favored in this model.
1. The ‘most red’ tail light housing
The exterior design of this Ora 07 is indeed feminine and looks simple, complete with an adaptive spoiler.
However, the less favored aspect is the entirely red tail light housing structure.
During daytime driving, other road users may find it difficult to guess whether the driver has already signaled to turn or is intending to enter an intersection using ‘niat’.
2. No analog meter theme options
We quite like the ‘cluster’ of Porsche 911-style meters present in the Ora 07’s cabin space.
It looks classic and modern at the same time.
However, its shortcoming is that it does not offer analog meter theme options to suit the masculine driving spirit of this Ora 07.
But honestly, the display of these meter graphics is much neater compared to other Chinese-made sedans in the market.
3. Easy but complicated-to-use convenience
As someone who doesn’t want driving focus disrupted on the road, the writer greatly appreciates the presence of a manual fan speed button in the center console for the air conditioning system.
This means it’s very easy to adjust the temperature and the speed of the cool air in the cabin.
However, that’s it.
Other functions such as the direction of the air need to be adjusted through a hidden menu on the infotainment screen, and there are no manual stalk available on the air vents!
You can read the full Ora 07 test drive report at the link below:
Welcome McLaren W1, the modern heir to the “1” series models McLaren F1 and P1.
The McLaren W1 is powered by a flat-plane V8 engine with a 90-degree angle and a 4.0-liter twin-turbo twin-turbocharged unit (MHP-8 code) that redlines at 9,200 rpm.
Paired with the 342 hp E-Module borrowed from IndyCar and Formula One, the McLaren W1 is capable of generating a total output of 1,258 hp and 1,340 Nm of torque, mated with an 8-speed automatic gearbox.
This makes it the most powerful McLaren supercar ever produced.
Weighing around 1,399 kg, the W1 also boasts the best power-to-weight ratio in its class, at 899 hp/ton.
This power is transferred to the rear wheels to achieve acceleration times of 2.7 seconds (0-100 km/h), 5.8 seconds (200 km/h), and 12.8 seconds (300 km/h) before reaching a top speed of 350 km/h.
The aforementioned E-Module is lighter than the unit found in the P1 model.
The battery pack has a capacity of only 1,384 kWh for emission-free travel up to 2.6 km, which is more than adequate considering the motor and battery are also used for reverse mode.
The active aerodynamic features on the W1 model draw inspiration from their F1 racing machines, with over 350 hours spent in the wind tunnel.
During racing mode, the McLaren W1 can ‘shape-shift’ where the Active Long Tail rear wing can act as an air brake component and DRS wing.
Additionally, the vehicle can be lowered by 37 mm at the front and 17.8 mm at the rear in the same mode.
With active wing systems and Active Chassis Control III, the McLaren W1 is capable of generating up to 350 kg of downforce at the front and 650 kg at the rear, with a total downforce of up to 1,000 kg in high-speed corners.
This 1,399 kg vehicle uses a carbon ceramic brake system with six-piston calipers at the front axle, followed by four-piston calipers at the rear.
Stopping distance is only 29 meters from 100 km/h to standstill, or 100 meters from 200 km/h.
As standard, the McLaren W1 comes equipped with Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS tires sized 265/35 at the front and 335/30 at the rear.
For street use, McLaren offers P Zero R or P Zero Winter 2 tires.
The W1 cabin is equipped with a compact steering wheel, followed by an eight-inch central screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, USB-A and C charging ports, and a small storage space behind the seats.
Only 399 units of the McLaren W1 will be produced, each priced from $2.1 million (RM8.87 million) and all units have already been sold out.
Despite arriving to the Malaysian market quite late, the Mitsubishi Xpander has managed to become the best-selling non-national MPV, with over 40,000 units sold.
We believe the influence of the Xpander will strengthen here with the introduction of the Xpander 2024 facelift model, which was launched last month.
Especially for fathers looking for a suitable vehicle for family use.
Last week, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia invited media practitioners to experience the driving experience of the Xpander facelift heading towards Malacca.
Based on the drive, what we can conclude is that the Xpander facelift can still be an ideal vehicle for contemporary family use.
Here are 5 things u need to know after driving the Xpander facelift:
1. More modern exterior appearance
Overall, the design of the Xpander has not changed much, except for the front fascia that now features a more modern and sleek Dynamic Shield design.
The T-shaped LED headlamps are enhanced with a cluster of LED lights that combine daytime running lights (DRL) and turn indicator lights.
The grille design also looks sleeker on the facelift model.
For the rear end, the redesigned lamp shape now features a T-shaped graphic that contributes to the changes in the rearview mirror shape.
Those opting for the Xpander Plus variant will receive additional features such as window visors and a black rear spoiler that is not overly aggressive but still manages to provide a sporty image.
Lastly, all four wheel arches are fitted with 17-inch rims wrapped in Bridgestone Ecopia tires.
2. More refined cabin space
Significant changes have been made to the cabin space, where the layout of the dashboard is now more refined.
As standard, the Xpander facelift still offers a 9-inch infotainment screen, a 4.2-inch TFT cluster screen with analog meter display, climate control with a digital display, and a steering wheel inspired by the Evo X sedan.
Despite coming with basic functions, the leatherette-wrapped seats remain comfortable to use, especially for long journeys.
The writer’s favorite feature is the available space provided when the new Xpander facelift replaces the physical handbrake with an electronic brake button.
It looks more organized and at the same time does not make the driving experience of this Xpander less practical.
You should know that the Xpander facelift now comes with several advanced features like wireless Qi smart device charging slot, front and rear driving recorders, and most importantly a 360-degree camera.
The use of soft-touch materials in certain areas also enhances a premium driving experience.
3. Practicality for the whole family
Compared to its competitors, the Xpander facelift has its own advantages, namely a more spacious cabin due to its larger dimensions.
There are no issues accommodating passengers in the third row seats as they are indeed comfortable to use.
If there are no additional passengers, the seats can be folded to provide a space of 837 liters, in addition to three additional hidden storage spaces in the cargo area.
Furthermore, there are plenty of small storage spaces provided around the cabin, especially in the door panels, small trays on the dashboard, a drawer under the front passenger seat, and small pockets behind the front seats.
4. Driving dynamics
What hasn’t changed with the Xpander facelift is the inline four-cylinder 1.5-liter engine producing 105 PS and 141 Nm of power, mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission.
Yes, it sounds somewhat outdated, considering that the average competitor is equipped with CVT or DCT transmissions.
It’s not the most modern gearbox, but it is retained to ensure owners need not worry about the durability and reliability of this component.
As a result, it can be said that the driving experience of the Xpander has not changed much in terms of power delivery and acceleration offered.
It still manages smooth gear changes, and at the same time, the issue of gear hunting does not haunt the driver during downshifts or hill climbs.
We experienced this on winding roads around Hulu Langat, but for regular highway driving, the engine and gearbox combination is more than sufficient.
At the same time, we can feel that the noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels in the Xpander facelift cabin have improved compared to the previous model.
The engine noise is effectively filtered, while wind noise is only noticeable after exceeding 160 km/h.
5. Handling
Another aspect that makes the writer understand why the Xpander is the top choice is the comfort it offers.
If the previous Xpander already proved its own comfort for long journeys, this Xpander facelift takes it up another notch.
According to Mitsubishi, the rear suspension of this MPV has been retuned with larger shock absorbers to ensure a more comfortable driving experience.
It’s not surprising that we struggled to feel any significant roughness when the tires met uneven road surfaces.
To say the handling is on par with the Evo X would be a lie. But the Xpander facelift can be well-controlled on straight roads as well as on winding roads without disturbing the comfort of passengers in the back.
However, due to the higher ground clearance (225 mm), stability is felt to be somewhat lacking, especially when traversing crosswinds on the highway.
This may also be due to the use of Bridgestone Ecopia tires, which were felt to have less grip compared to the Toyo Proxes CR1 tires used in the previous model, although they are quieter.
One thing for sure, as a driver of the Xpander facelift, you need not worry about traversing uneven routes in rural and suburban areas, thanks to the higher ground clearance package compared to other competitors.
Based on the test drive conducted recently, the Mitsubishi Xpander 2024 facelift seems to be a viable choice for families in Malaysia, especially for those who prioritize comfort and practicality.
