Electric cars are no longer a highly sought-after product.
The increasingly sluggish trend is now causing most EV manufacturers to scratch their heads.
The decline in demand for EVs, which has also affected the European continent, has seen the Tesla Model Y dethroned and no longer the best-selling car.
The latest data from the European Union (EU) revealed that Dacia Sandero emerged as the best-selling car during the period of January to June 2024, with a total of 143,596 units registered.
Dacia Sandero is the top choice for most buyers due to its relatively low selling price, starting from €11,500 (RM56 thousand).
In second place is the VW Golf with 126,993 units, followed by the Renault Clio (114,623 units), VW T-Roc (111,381 units), and Peugeot 208 (107,097 units).
The Tesla Model Y, on the other hand, seems to have to settle for the eighth position with sales totaling 101,181 units for the first six months of this year.
Here is a list of the best-selling cars in Europe during January-June 2024.
As someone who isn’t particularly fond of SUV body types (except for a few models), the writer feels grateful that the majority of major automotive manufacturers in Malaysia are still trying to maintain sales of sedan models, despite their decreasing popularity on a global level.
Here, we have several options of sedan models, ranging from affordable prices to high-performance luxury sedan models with considerable prices.
Unfortunately, the competition in the sedan models segment is not as strong as it was decades ago.
For example, in the C segment, consumers are only presented with a few models, such as the Proton S70, Mazda3, Honda Civic, and the very popular name worldwide – the Toyota Corolla Altis.
The Corolla indeed needs no introduction, unless you were born during the Covid era and are only more familiar with those lifeless electric cars.
The Toyota Corolla 1.8G that we test drove is a facelift model launched last year.
Despite being a facelift, if you are expecting something ‘wow’, this 1.8G Corolla may disappoint those expectations.
This is because there are not many changes to the exterior of this sedan model, except for a unique bumper design, followed by new 17-inch rims wrapped in 225/45 profile tires.
The design of the front projector LED headlights and rear lights remain the same. Perhaps it’s already perfect, so there’s no need to change those aspects.
However, you need to enter the cabin to enjoy the changes brought by Toyota in this model.
The front seats have been redesigned for comfort, in addition to providing better support for the driver during spirited driving.
The major change is the presence of a 12.3-inch digital cluster screen, providing a concise interface, and most importantly still offering classic analog meter graphics.
In addition to wireless Apple CarPlay support, the Corolla also provides USB-C charging slots on the center console, as well as clips for holding smartphones in the wireless charging slot.
Apart from that, the basic specifications remain the same, such as a cargo space of 470 liters, MacPherson front strut and double wishbone suspensions, electric power steering system, and front and rear disc brake system.
The writer had the opportunity to test drive this Corolla further while on vacation to the East Coast a few weeks ago.
One main thing that the writer noticed was the quieter NVH levels compared to the pre-facelift Corolla.
The 137 hp and 172 Nm of torque produced by the 1.8-liter engine is sufficient to move this 1.3-ton body.
It is agile, and no lack of power was felt throughout the journey.
Perhaps it’s due to the mindset of drivers who consider the Corolla not a sports car, so the driving is done in a relaxed and straightforward manner.
However, you need to experience the magic of this TNGA platform when exiting the highway and entering winding federal roads.
There, you will find the MacPherson/Double Wishbone suspension setup in this Corolla working brilliantly with stable handling every time it encounters twists and turns.
Body roll is still felt, but at a controllable level even though this sedan is not equipped with a sportier suspension like the GR Sport variant.
Additionally, the electric power steering system also assists the driver in handling this sedan accurately without the need for constant correction.
Whatever the driver directs, the Corolla makes it happen.
Attempts to escape from the highway, sometimes with speed trap cameras, seem to have successfully made the writer fall in love with a rarely used road, through driving this Corolla.
Certainly, the cabin atmosphere is not disturbed by engine noise or the whistling of the wind, and even the noise of the Dunlop SP Sport Maxx tires is well-filtered.
For a standard factory sedan, the writer truly enjoyed a more enjoyable drive than a Corolla compared to the Honda Civic and Proton S70.
The standard seats are also comfortable enough to accompany us throughout the journey.
Although at times, this sedan needs to traverse roads with qualities similar to the surface of Mars, the passenger in the adjacent seat still sleeps soundly.
The 470-liter cargo space is sufficient to accommodate essential items during cross-country trips.
Unlike the Vios, you can fold the second-row seats to provide a larger space.
Fuel consumption is also satisfying, where the writer managed to achieve as low as 8.1 liters per 100 km, or approximately 680 km on a full tank.
Safety aspects need not be worried about, because this Corolla comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense.
Among the features included are the pre-collision system (PCS), lane departure alert (LDA), automatic high beams (AHB), blind-spot monitoring (BSM), rear cross-traffic alert (RCTA), and dynamic radar cruise control (DRCC), which is very useful on the highway.
Furthermore, there are also seven SRS airbags, seatbelt warning, as well as ISOFIX anchors for child seats in the rear.
At the end of the day, what the writer can conclude is that this Toyota Corolla 1.8G could be a worthwhile option for a family sedan to own and consider.
The facelifted Toyota Corolla offers a complete package for those who prioritize practicality and comfort without sacrificing enjoyable driving.
With a starting price of RM147,800 for the 1.8G variant, it’s not wrong for you to break away from the usual preference for the H logo, for this rather perfect companion for the return to the hometown.
Specifications of the Toyota Corolla 1.8G
Engine: 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder (2ZR-FE)
Power: 137 hp @ 6,400 rpm
Torque: 172 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
Transmission: 7-speed CVT
Suspension: MacPherson/Double Wishbone
Rim: 17 inches
Cargo: 470 liters
Tesla has never committed to opening a factory in Malaysia, said Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz.
In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Tengku Zafrul explained that the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) had engaged in discussions with Tesla founder Elon Musk in efforts to attract investment, but these discussions did not involve setting up a factory.
“Firstly, the foreign news report is not an official statement from Tesla but rather quotes anonymous or unnamed sources. Reporters need to verify the authenticity of this news with Tesla, as the source of this news is not from Tesla.
“Secondly, MITI has never announced that Tesla will open a factory in Malaysia. We have had discussions with Elon Musk in efforts to attract investment, but Tesla has never committed to opening a factory here,” Tengku Zafrul said.
He made these comments in response to a report from Thai online news portal, The Nation, which cited unnamed sources within the government regarding Tesla’s cancellation of plans to develop factories in Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia.
The report also stated that Tesla’s current discussions are only focused on efforts related to charging stations and has suspended plans to develop factories not just in Thailand but globally.
“Tesla is not proceeding with plans in Malaysia, Indonesia, or other locations except in China, the United States, and Germany,” the news portal reported.
On July 20 last year, a leading United States multinational electric automotive manufacturer announced its strategic expansion into the Malaysian market through Tesla Malaysia Sdn Bhd.
According to a joint statement from Tesla and the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), this move is a direct response to the Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) Global Leader initiative introduced by MITI.
In addition to introducing a range of advanced electric vehicles (EVs) to Malaysian consumers, Tesla is also committed to investing in a comprehensive network of fast and standard charging stations across strategic locations in Malaysia, as well as establishing its state-of-the-art headquarters and service centre in Cyberjaya, Selangor.
The Road Transport Department (RTD) is replacing the ‘Automated Awareness Safety System’ (AwAS) cameras in phases at the gazetted locations, said its director-general Aedy Fadly Ramli.
RTD director-general in a statement today said the replacement of the AwAS camera is in line with the improvement of the existing AwAS camera system in line with the latest technological changes that use ‘Automated Number Plate Recognition’ (ANPR) technology to ensure that the camera operates better.
“This replacement involves the Redflex model cameras that need to be replaced due to major damage and no support from the principal,” said RTD.
He said the operation of AwAS cameras is also to ensure enforcement involving the offence of driving over the speed limit and failing to comply with traffic lights based on provisions under the Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333) in line with reducing the statistics of accidents and deaths due to road accidents.
Therefore, RTD calls and asks for the cooperation of all road users to take steps to comply with the laws that have been set and be tolerant with other road users for the priority of personal and family safety when on the road.
“This department is also always committed to ensure that the safety and well-being of road users is always maintained at the best possible level,” he said.
If you’ve noticed, durian stalls seem to be popping up everywhere you go.
The desire to indulge in the king of fruits may be in your heart, but some of us might be concerned about the smell that could linger in the car cabin.
Especially if you’ve just brought home a car that still retains a smell from the dealership. Surely, you wouldn’t want the dealership scent to be overtaken by the smell of durian, right?
There are several tips you can follow to prevent the durian smell from sticking to your car.
Buy and eat outdoors
source: FB Durian Brother Jalan Kebun
This is the most ideal way to preserve the fresh car scent if you care not to spoil the smell of your new car dealership.
Or buy durian from your favorite stall and ask the shopkeeper to pack the durian directly in an airtight container. The smell may still exist, but it won’t be as strong as carrying a carton of durian in the car trunk.
Wrap the durian fruit
If you enjoy the challenge of opening up durian at home, don’t worry.
After purchasing durian, you can wrap the spikey fruit with several plastic bags and tie them tightly to contain the smell.
Or you can use damp cloths or any leaves like pandan leaves that can absorb the durian smell from reaching the passengers’ noses.
Use household items to absorb the durian smell
There are various household food items that can be used to absorb any lingering smell after bringing back a carton of durian.
These include white bread, coffee beans or powder, baking soda, vinegar, and pineapples.
Use charcoal to absorb the smell
In addition to the aforementioned items, you can also use charcoal or wood charcoal available at convenience stores to absorb the durian smell.
Apart from regular charcoal, there are special charcoals sold specifically to eliminate unpleasant odors.
Use the durian stem itself
This tip is often shared by netizens, suggests using the durian stem to absorb the fruit’s smell.
Simply cut the stem from the fruit and place it in the car’s air vent.
If you place the stem with the durian fruit, this will be an entirely useless advice.
Mdua Motor Sdn Bhd (KOVE Malaysia) has announced the participation of KOVE Malaysia Racing Team in this year’s Asia Cross Country Rally (AXCR) 2024 in Thailand.
This is a special honor as the KOVE Malaysia Racing Team is the sole representative from Malaysia in this prestigious AXCR event.
The team will be represented by rider Hazim Hayazi, who has previously achieved significant successes including being the Class C champion of the GIVI Rimba Raid 2023, winner of the ‘King of Royal Rumble’ in the Royal Rumble Hard Enduro Rider 2023, third place in the WRC Orange Enduro 2023 (Open Category), and fourth place in the Gamuda Gardens Advenduro-X 2024 (Class C).
Hazim will ride the KOVE 450 Rally machine equipped with a ‘roadbook’ navigation system, as well as race kits similar to those used in the Dakar Rally.
He will be supported by two experienced young technicians from the technical and logistics division of the KOVE Racing Team.
AXCR 2024 promises a challenging and thrilling journey of over 2,000 km from Surat Thani to Kanchanaburi, spanning six days from August 12 to 17.
KOVE Malaysia will utilize AXCR 2024 as a platform to showcase the endurance and performance of KOVE motorcycles in various environmental conditions, and to test the exceptional capabilities of the KOVE 450 Rally machine.
UMW Toyota Motor has announced the return of the Vios Challenge racing series for its seventh season, starting this weekend, offering a total prize value of RM630,000.
For this year, the Vios Challenge will feature up to three rounds and six individual races taking place at the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit.
The first round of the Toyota Vios Challenge will take place from August 9-11 simultaneously with the Malaysian Championship Series (MCS), while the second round will be held from September 27-29. Both of these rounds will be broadcast live on Facebook and YouTube.
The final round will take place on January 3-5, 2025, open to the public with various attractions and programs planned to further enliven the atmosphere.
The seventh season of the Vios Challenge will feature three main classes: Sporting Class, Super Sporting Class, and TGR Rookie Class.
Among those expected to draw attention in the Super Sporting Class are three-time champion Tengku Djan Ley, Mitchell Cheah, Eddie Lew, William Ho, Tom Goh, and Freddie Ang.
Additionally, the Super Sporting Class will see the participation of young racers such as Putera Adam, siblings Naquib and Nabil Azlan, Bradley Benedict, Ady Rahimy, and Aman Nagdev from India.
The Sporting Class will list names like Dato’ Dr Ken Foo, Kenneth Koh, Dannies Ng, Shafiq Samsudin, Ricky Tan, Lim Chung Beng, as well as young racers Elson Yew, Amirul Haikal, Timothy Yeo, and Ashen Arumugam.
This class will also feature international racers, namely Panithan Rakpaibulsombut from Thailand and Daniel Inosuke Ooi from Singapore.
Meanwhile, the TGR Rookies will showcase a lineup of 24 young racers who have just completed the GAZOO Racing Young Talent Development Program.
Highlighted names include kart racer Brandon Ho (22 years old), Adam Mikail (18 years old), Amirul Afiq (22 years old), Audrey Leong (17 years old), Kingston Tan (19 years old), and simulation racer Raja Amirul (21 years old).
The seventh season of the Vios Challenge will serve as the main stage for the debut of the latest generation Toyota Vios racing car.
It still retains the 1.5-liter engine paired with a five-speed manual transmission, but with a more stable platform and chassis, and revised aerodynamics to enable it to achieve the fastest lap times.
Mitsubishi Motors, through the Mitsubishi Ralliart team, aims for the championship title in the Asia Cross Country Rally 2024 (AXCR 2024) scheduled to take place from August 11 to 17.
In the competition set to be held in the central and southern regions of Thailand, the Mitsubishi Ralliart team will feature up to four new-generation Triton pickup trucks, accompanied by a support vehicle lineup consisting of the Delica D:5, Outlander PHEV, and the kei car Delica Mini!
The Triton vehicles have already undergone performance testing, covering a distance of 800 km on regular roads and off-road routes back in late June, followed by a shakedown session on August 6 to ensure they are in optimal condition for this year’s competition.
According to team director Hiroshi Masuoka, “Apart from improving driving performance and increasing tire width, we have also enhanced the rear suspension by leveraging expertise acquired from our former Dakar Rally champion, the Pajero.
“Modifications have also been made to its original strength, such as handling extreme routes, so that the rally cars used this time can deliver the performance we expect.”
As mentioned earlier, the Mitsubishi Ralliart team will feature four Delica D:5 minivans, the Outlander PHEV SUV, and a Delica Mini kei car as support vehicles.
One of the four Delica D:5 units will be used personally by team director Hiroshi Masuoka for route inspections to be used by the rally vehicles, equipped with special suspension that raises ground clearance by 20 mm.
All Mitsubishi Ralliart support vehicles are equipped with Work CRAG T-GRABICII alloy rims (Work Emotion M8R rims for the Outlander PHEV) and Yokohama GEOLANDER off-road tire wraps.
Furthermore, all six support vehicles will showcase body graphics matching those of the Triton rally vehicles.
A total of 67 vehicles will compete in this year’s AXCR event, comprising 46 in the auto category, 19 in the motorcycle category, and 2 in the sidecar category.
The opening ceremony will take place on August 11 in the Surat Thani region, southern Thailand, and will conclude at Skywalk Kanchanaburi on August 17.
Some of us consider ourselves experts in driving on the road, knowing all the techniques and skills necessary to navigate through any kind of obstacle.
However, when the rainy season arrives, you actually need to elevate your driving skills due to increasingly challenging situations such as limited visibility and slippery road conditions.
But you don’t need to have driving skills like Lewis Hamilton or Max Verstappen during the rainy season. Here are some safe driving tips you can practice during this unpredictable rainy season:
Maintain a safe distance
In driving school, we are taught to keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front, and this becomes even more crucial, especially during heavy rain. Coupled with the factor of slippery roads, and limited visibility due to water spray from the front vehicle, you may not have enough time and space to stop the car safely. Therefore, it’s best to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front.
Drive slow
The driving techniques on dry roads are not the same as those required to handle a vehicle on wet roads. If unsure, just drive at a speed that is easy to control and maintain a necessary grip to move forward smoothly.
Avoid using hazard lights, except when stopped
As the name suggests, hazard lights should only be used in unexpected situations. For example, if there’s sudden traffic stoppage ahead, turn on your hazard lights to alert the users behind you. Or when you stop in an emergency lane. Please get used to doing the right thing and correct your ‘habits’ during this rainy season. Thank you.
Turn on your car lights
Another habit you should adopt is to turn on your main car lights while driving in heavy rain. This is because during heavy rain, it will obscure the presence of cars that have a similar color, and increase the risk of collisions. If honked by other users, consider it as a reminder to practice safer driving.
Avoid water puddles as much as possible
Some of us enjoy splashing into water puddles just to see the spray of water. But did you know that the resulting splash can ‘blind’ your vision for a few moments and the situation can become worse if you don’t have enough space to avoid the front car, which may stop suddenly. Furthermore, water puddles also indicate the presence of potholes that can tear your pocket mid-month. Flat tires can be repaired, but if the tire is torn?
When was the last time you changed your wipers?
Wipers are a crucial component that is very useful during the rainy season. In this regard, try to find quality and effective wiper products to ensure that the front mirror remains free from any dirt during the rainy season. Also, make sure the wiper rubber is in good condition to avoid the noisy sound that could potentially ruin your mood during the journey.
Get real-time traffic information
Some like to listen to traffic info from local radio, but some users prefer to install mapping navigation apps on their smartphones. Whichever method is used, it’s a great way to be aware of current conditions such as traffic jams, flash floods, or recent accidents.
Take a brief rest stop
Just like driving at night, driving during the rainy season is also more exhausting and can reduce your energy and focus faster. This is especially true when the rain becomes heavier, and visibility is further limited due to the presence of fog and dark weather. If you are driving on a highway, you can stop at rest areas to recharge and wait for the rain to subside.
Ensure the car is in good condition
In addition to the driver’s physical well-being, the condition of the car also needs to be ensured to withstand any seasonal changes. Make sure components such as brakes are in good condition and the tire tread depth still provides reassurance to the driver, rather than having a tire that looks like it needs replacing. Don’t forget to check the front and rear lights and replace any burnt bulbs with new ones.
Class B1 and B2 motorcycle license holders who have been active for more than 10 years can apply for LMM Class B starting from the upcoming October 1.
Transport Minister, Anthony Loke Siew Fook, stated that holders of LMM Class B1 and B2 who are interested can obtain LMM Class B with a fee of only RM160 compared to the previous RM900.
He said, those interested must attend and pass a two-hour transitional and motorcycle adjustment program for motorcycles with 500cc and above at the Driving Institute (IM), involving practical riding and safe driving information.
“Other conditions set are that applicants must be free from any blacklist, outstanding fines, business transaction restrictions, records of serious offenses, or any unresolved matters under Act 333.
“In addition, applicants must also undergo self-declared physical, mental, and medical fitness verification,” he said at a press conference after completing the ministry’s monthly assembly here.
He said, the government fundamentally agrees with the transitional program, however, it is not implemented automatically but must meet the specified requirements.
ASEAN NCAP has announced that Mitsubishi’s latest SUV, the XFORCE has successfully obtained a five-star rating in the assessment test for new vehicles conducted recently.
Based on the test results, the Mitsubishi XFORCE scored a total of 79.15 points, evaluated across four categories as follows:
Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) – 34.89/40.00
Child Occupant Protection (COP) – 17.03/20.00
Safety Assist (SA) – 14.85/20.00
Motorcycle Safety (MS) – 12.39/20.00
As standard, the Mitsubishi XFORCE comes equipped with features such as four airbags, ABS, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), seatbelt reminder for front and rear passengers, and pedestrian protection technology.
Additionally, it also offers safety aids like Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Blind Spot Detection (BSD), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), and Automatic High Beam (AHB) assistance.
The Mitsubishi XFORCE is powered by a 1.5-liter inline-four engine producing 103 hp and 141 Nm of torque, paired with a CVT transmission and front-wheel drive.
Even though it operates with a 2WD system only, the XFORCE still possesses typical off-road SUV features, including a ground clearance of 222 mm, approach angle of 21 degrees, departure angle of 35 degrees, and four driving modes (Normal, Gravel, Mud, Wet).
The somewhat scorching afternoon weather and congested traffic make some of us prefer to drive at night.
However, driving at night is not the same as driving during the day.
There are many factors that can limit our visibility and increase the risk of accidents.
If you intend to drive at night, here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Ensure your body is well-rested
Lighting factors will help you focus more on what is coming from the front. As a result, the brain will become more tired, and the situation will worsen if you are not aware that you are actually experiencing microsleep.
What the author practices is to sleep early to get enough rest before embarking on a journey in the middle of the night.
2. Ensure the headlights are functioning properly
Most of the time, we rely on the headlights to determine the distance and objects ahead. If the lights are not in good condition or the beam position is too low, it can limit clear visibility.
High beam position can also endanger oncoming drivers due to excessive glare issues, especially with average modern cars using LED lights.
3. Ensure the front and side mirrors are clean from dirt
Clean front windshield provides a clearer field of vision, and are safer especially at night. If the front windshield is dirty or oily, this condition will scatter light, worsening the glare effect of headlights from the front.
Look for an old newspaper not in use to wipe these areas.
4. Avoid ambient lights that can disrupt driving
Modern cars are now equipped with ambient lighting systems akin to roadside “tomyam” stalls. Some offer beautiful lighting graphics, while others can disrupt driving at night.
If this happens, try adjusting the cabin ambient light brightness to a minimum level, or simply turn it off. No one wants to see the condition of your car’s “tomyam” stall from the outside anyway.
5. Drive at a controllable speed
One advantage of night driving is quieter road conditions, but it is not a license to exceed the speed limit. Driving more cautiously is the best way to ensure you have enough time to react to any unexpected situations such as animals crossing, cars skidding, or the end of the road having no proper lighting system. Remember the distance rule taught in driving school? Practice it.
Another common tip the author follows when driving at night is to have a mapping navigation app running at all times, especially when driving on unfamiliar routes, so you can estimate the road structure and know about road damage/incident reports uploaded by other users.
6. Avoid driving for extended periods
Driving at night will make your body more tired than usual. Therefore, it is advised to stop and rest every one or two hours to get fresh air, do some quick body stretching exercises, or have a hot cup of coffee to refresh your brain.
If you feel very tired, take a short nap, but make sure your car windows are not tightly closed to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Suzuki Malaysia has recently launched a 250cc adventure vehicle, the 2024 Suzuki V-Strom 250 SX for the local market after being first unveiled at last year’s KL Bike Show.
It is powered by a 249cc SOHC single-cylinder engine capable of producing up to 26.1 hp @ 9,300 rpm and torque of 22.2 Nm @ 7,300 rpm, assisted by the Suzuki Oil Cooling System (SOCS) and Suzuki Easy Start System.
Features packed into this vehicle include telescopic front fork, single shock absorber with seven-stage preload adjustability, and 19-inch and 17-inch rims wrapped in MRF semi-block tires.
A dual-channel ABS system is provided as a standard feature complementing the disc brake system consisting of 310 mm front rotors and 240 mm rear rotors.
Furthermore, the Suzuki V-Strom 250 SX also showcases LED front and rear lighting units, sporty graphics, twin outlet exhaust muffler, windscreen, handlebar guard, and aluminum rear rack.
All essential information can be viewed through the negative LCD display screen, complete with customizable RPM indicator lights for the rider, and a USB slot for smart device charging.
The fuel tank capacity is 12 liters, accompanied by a ground clearance of 205 mm while the saddle height stands at approximately 835 mm.
Various accessories are also available, including handguard, 27-liter storage box, heated handlebar grips, fuel tank cover, wheel decals, and a choice of a 25 mm lower seat.
The 2024 Suzuki V-Strom 250 SX is available in three colors, namely Champion Yellow No. 2, Pearl Blaze Orange, and Glass Sparkle Black.
The selling price for the Malaysian market starts at RM17,800.
In the final round of the GR GT Cup Malaysia simulation race held at Sunway University Campus the other day, Taj Izrin Aiman Taj Madira emerged as the champion for the fourth consecutive time.
The 26-year-old teenager has now become the most successful simulation racer in the GR GT Cup Malaysia series, accumulating a total of 59 points, leaving Chong Kai Chang in second place and 2022 champion Muhammad Iqbal Suji in third.
With a total prize pool worth RM120,500, the GR GT Cup Malaysia is the most lucrative simulation racing series ever organized in the country.
According to Taj Izrin Aiman, he made the decision not to change tires when the rain began to fall after two laps, and this bold move allowed him to overtake other racers.
Chong is satisfied with improving his position from third place last year to second place this year.
He, who took home the RM15,000 prize, often practices with his friends using various racing strategies due to the major update received by Gran Turismo 7 involving game physics several days before the final event took place.
The third place was taken by Muhammad Iqbal, bringing home a cash prize of RM12,000.
UMW Toyota’s President Datuk Ravindran K said, “Throughout the seven seasons of organizing the GR GT Cup Malaysia, the competition has become increasingly intense, and each year the driving skills and level of race craft displayed by the finalists are at a higher level.
“This is what we at Toyota aim to achieve, and I am very pleased that we can make an impact on motorsports in Malaysia, whether in the virtual world or through racing circuits such as the GR Vios Challenge and GR Young Driver Development Program.”
The GR GT Cup Malaysia 2024 also featured a race involving 10 finalists selected from the GR GT Cup Malaysia Campus Tour.
Among those who garnered attention was the presence of 14-year-old young racer Ethen Low from St Michael’s Institution, who managed to seize second place.
Meanwhile, Raja Amirul Syauqat has been selected to join the GAZOO Racing Young Driver Development Program and is expected to make an appearance in the Vios Challenge through the Rookie Class.
Additionally, there was a special race organized for Toyota GAZOO Racing rookie racers and media practitioners, aside from the Team Championship, where finalists from the GR GT Cup were combined with Campus Tour participants with the aim of finding new talent to be guided by professional racers.
Good news for those looking for a practical GR vehicle for daily use.
This is because Toyota has just updated the five-door hot hatch GR Corolla for the 2025 model year by offering an automatic gearbox as an option alongside the six-speed manual transmission variant.
The Direct Automatic Transmission (DAT) gearbox has made its official debut through the previous GR Yaris hot hatch model earlier this year.
Unlike the auto transmission found in the GR Supra and GR86, which shift gears based on speed and G-force, the GR Corolla gearbox uses input from the brake pedal and throttle to anticipate the optimal time to shift gears.
In addition, Toyota has also reprogrammed the automatic transmission to offer gear ratios almost equivalent to those of a manual transmission, in addition to coming with a standard transmission cooling system.
The G16E-GTS 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine is capable of producing up to 300 hp, with the torque figure increased from 370 Nm to 400 Nm.
All 2025 GR Corolla variants now come standard with front and rear Torsen limited-slip differentials (LSD), along with a retuned suspension system for a more sporty driving experience.
For the 2025 model year, slight changes have been made to the front bumper where the GR Corolla now features improved brake cooling ducts and air curtains capable of reducing aerodynamic drag around the tires.
Toyota also offers an additional sub-radiator for extra cooling as standard for the Premium Plus model or as an option for the Premium model.
There have not been many changes made to the interior cabin, except for the addition of paddle shifters on the steering wheel, along with Launch Control system as standard for the DAT model.
Information regarding additional specifications and pricing will only be announced when the GR Corolla 2025 hits the dealerships in the upcoming winter season.
If you’ve noticed, in recent years, there has been a trend among automotive manufacturers where they are racing to display more concise and minimalist logos.
This is contrary to what has been practiced for decades, where most manufacturers showcase textured logos, three-dimensional appearances, glossy finishes, and various other approaches that have been widely used.
Leading brands such as Hyundai, Nissan, Peugeot, Renault, and the newest entrants Honda and Mazda have changed their logos to be more streamlined.
Furthermore, this minimalist trend is also being followed by more luxurious brands like Aston Martin, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Lexus, and Rolls-Royce.
Here we list some automotive brands with more concise corporate logo presentations:
Toyota Corolla is perhaps a name widely known as the best-selling passenger car model on the face of the earth.
The Patent-Motorwagen model that appeared in 1885 is also recognized as the pioneer of modern cars.
But did you know, which vehicle model has the longest production period? Is it a Toyota?
Here is a list of 10 vehicles with the longest production periods in the world.
1. Chevrolet Suburban – 90 years
First produced in 1934, Chevrolet Suburban is recognized as the longest-running automobile nameplate in the world, spanning 12 generations to date.
It is also an iconic car, being recognized on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for its role in pop culture.
2. Ford F-Series – 76 years
The most popular truck model in the United States is also the longest-produced truck model.
It has also been named as the best-selling truck in the US since 1981.
3. VW Transporter – 74 years
With over 12 million units, the VW Transporter is the best-selling van.
The Transporter has various variants including vans, minibuses, minivans, campervans, and pickups!
4. Land Cruiser – 73 years
Produced since 1951, the Land Cruiser is the longest-produced Toyota model, with sales exceeding 10 million units worldwide.
Despite being in a new generation, the Land Cruiser 70 Series, first produced since 1984, is still offered as a new model for 2024.
5. Chevrolet Corvette – 71 years
This iconic American sports car has been in production since 1953, and is now in its eighth generation.
The recently launched 2025 Corvette ZR1 is the most powerful Corvette model ever produced, with 1,064 hp and 1,123 Nm!
6. Mercedes-Benz S-Class – 70 years
Better known as Sonderklasse, the S-Class is a full-size luxury sedan that has been produced in several generations.
Although it has been produced since 1954, the S-Class name was officially used in 1972 for the W116 generation model after the W108 generation was discontinued.
7. Toyota Crown – 69 years
The Toyota Crown is marketed as a mid-size luxury sedan as an alternative to competitors like the Nissan Cedric, Honda Legend, Mazda Luce, Isuzu Bellel, and Mitsubishi Debonair.
In addition to being popular as a government official’s car, the Toyota Crown is also used as a police patrol car and taxi in Japan.
8. Nissan Skyline – 67 years
At the independence of Malaya, an iconic name was born by the Prince Motor Company, the Skyline.
To date, 13 generations of the Skyline have existed on the face of the earth, including several high-performance GT-R generations. For your information, the R35 is not classified as part of the Skyline family.
9. Mini – 65 years
Designed by Sir Alec Issigonis, the Mini is a small car produced by the British Motor Company (BMC) as a result of the fuel shortage crisis experienced in the UK in 1956.
Using the same platform, this original Mini was produced from 1959 until 2000 in hatchback, wagon, and convertible forms.
10. Porsche 911 – 60 years
This rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive sports car was first produced since September 1964, with the original air-cooled engine before switching to a liquid-cooled engine in 1998.
Porsche reached the production milestone of one million 911 units in 2017, where the model is now displayed at the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart.
The selection of an affordable streetfighter machine that resonates with one’s soul is something that should not be taken lightly.
Otherwise, you might end up having to sell the bike because it does not match your personal taste.
Fortunately for B2 license holders in Malaysia, we are presented with various models of motorcycles under 250cc displacement, from Japan, Sweden, India, and there are even motorcycles made in China!
The Suzuki Gixxer 250 entered the Malaysian market at the end of last year, with a price tag that caught attention – around RM14,500.
Although its arrival might be somewhat late, the writer believes that the Suzuki Gixxer 250 is capable of posing a strong challenge to other 250cc models out there.
The following is a brief review after spending several days with the Suzuki Gixxer 250:
1. Streetfighter with average styling
Compared to other competitors in the market, the Gixxer 250 does not have an aggressive look.
The oval-shaped LED main headlight with three-layer lighting does look modern, but it is not complemented by LED turn signal lights, only traditional bulbs.
The same goes for the rear section.
However, the lighting aspect of this motorcycle is quite bright when ridden at night.
2. Natural riding position
One thing the writer appreciates about any naked bike is the rider’s more back-friendly riding position.
After all, reaching the age of 30, a sporty riding position is not a choice for cross-regional journeys.
Thus, with the Gixxer 250, it offers a more natural riding posture thanks to the upright handlebar position, along with a saddle height of 795mm that is comfortable for individuals of shorter stature and a relatively wide seat dimension.
As a result, it is more comfortable for long-distance rides.
The footpeg position is also satisfying, but its proximity to the side stand makes the left foot feel obstructed when trying to kick it out.
3. Fun horsepower to unleash
As standard, the Suzuki Gixxer 250 is equipped with a 249cc single-cylinder engine capable of producing 26.7 hp @ 9,300 rpm and a torque of 22.2 Nm @ 7,300 rpm.
Its sound might not be as aggressive as other competitors, but based on experience, the Gixxer 250 is capable of offering a fairly agile and powerful ride, especially when entering the mid-range of the engine revolution.
For urban use, it is not a problem at all, and the writer also enjoys riding this machine across the regions to breathe in the breeze of the Malacca Strait.
It’s a shame that it doesn’t come with a clutch assist & slipper feature, but there’s no need to worry as every gear change feels so smooth throughout the journey.
The Gixxer 250 also comes with gear shift indicators that will provide warnings to the rider.
4. Corner-friendly machine
There is no urge to test the highest speed of this machine, considering that the Gixxer 250 is actually more enjoyable to ride on roads away from the highways.
Even though it comes with standard conventional telescopic front fork and single shock absorber, this setup makes the Gixxer 250 suitable for the road conditions in Malaysia.
All vibrations and road irregularities are absorbed well, and it is still able to maintain stable movements when maneuvering through corners.
The standard tire size of 110/70 front and 150/60 rear also somewhat helps the Gixxer 250 to grip well on the asphalt, coupled with the dual-channel ABS braking system that enhances the bike’s stopping ability.
On paper, there may appear to be shortcomings in this machine, but not when you take it out of the garage to enjoy real routes.
5. Comfortable? Yes!
One thing that makes the writer satisfied with the Gixxer 250 is the effectiveness of its engine cooling system.
As standard, the Gixxer 250 comes with the Suzuki Oil Cooling System (SOCS) to ensure that both feet remain comfortable throughout the journey.
This is very different from another 250cc machine the writer has tested before, where the heat generated can make the feet feel burnt even on short journeys.
But not with the Gixxer 250, where the writer can go much further than usual without having to frequently stop just to cool down the feet.
6. Not many additional features
At a selling price of around RM14,500, the Suzuki Gixxer 250 indeed has some noticeable shortcomings.
Desired features such as inverted front fork, quick shifting capability, LED turn signals, color TFT display screen, and keyless start system are completely absent from this bike’s specifications list.
What you will get is a 250cc motorcycle friendly for B2 license holders that is quite simple but still suitable for enjoying commuting to work or relishing fresh air with friends on weekends heading to Lemang To’ Ki shop.
With a fuel tank capacity of 12 liters, it is sufficient to ensure you reach distances of up to 400 km before needing to stop at the next gas station.
In conclusion, the Suzuki Gixxer 250 can offer good riding and handling experience, while maintaining comfort aspects within a more affordable price range.
Should you consider buying another motorcycle? That is entirely up to personal opinion. However, this is one of the 250cc bikes that is very enjoyable to ride.
Specifications of the Suzuki Gixxer 250
Engine: 249 cc single-cylinder air/oil-cooled
Power: 26.7 hp @ 9,300 rpm
Torque: 22.2 Nm @ 7,300 rpm
Transmission: Six-speed gearbox
Fuel tank capacity: 12 liters
Saddle height: 795 mm
Bridgestone Tyre Malaysia has further intensified the e-sports arena in Malaysia by organizing “Bridgestone Rivals: Race to the Top” from June 26 to July 5, 2024.
The simulation racing championship was held at several higher education institutions, including Segi University Kota Damansara, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) Sungai Long, and Asia Pacific University (APU), TPM Bukit Jalil, where it successfully attracted over 2,000 visitors, with over 530 participants adding to the excitement.
Bridgestone is the first tire manufacturer to collaborate with Forza Motorsport, one of the leading simulation racing platforms, where participants were given the opportunity to race using a Lamborghini Huracan STO in the Hakone Grand Prix.
The final round of the championship took place at APU on July 5, 2024, featuring 45 students who successfully recorded the best lap times.
It also included a special session for media practitioners and an Open Group Championship for the top 20 public participants.
Michael Chung, Managing Director of Bridgestone Tyre Sales (Malaysia), said, “We are very excited to bring the thrill of racing simulation to university students and motor sports enthusiasts.
“This competition not only bridges the gap between the physical and digital realms, but also provides inspiration and connects the public through a shared interest in motor sports.
In the challenge, three students, Brandon Ho, Chuo Chung Zhi, and Bryan Wong emerged as the top three racers, each taking home cash prizes of RM1,000, RM800, and RM500 respectively, along with trophies and Bridgestone merchandise.
Cycle & Carriage, a renowned automotive brand with a 125-year legacy, has announced a partnership with Stellantis Malaysia to expand the Peugeot brand under its product portfolio.
Initially, two existing Cycle & Carriage showrooms located in Cheras and Batu Caves will be utilized to showcase Peugeot vehicles under one roof with sales and after-sales services set to commence towards the fourth quarter of this year (Q4 2024).
This collaboration with Cycle & Carriage is part of an effort to further develop the distributor network of Stellantis Malaysia.
The aim is not only to strengthen their presence in the country but also to identify key locations to offer quality and easily accessible services to customers within the community.
Additionally, there are plans to introduce more brands under Stellantis Malaysia, as well as to expand the network to the northern and southern regions of Peninsular Malaysia starting from 2025.
“We are excited to embark on a new chapter with Stellantis Malaysia, to offer customers an expanded product lineup, coupled with Cycle & Carriage’s expertise in automotive backed by our 125-year history. This aligns with our strategy to deliver exceptional journeys to a broader customer base, expand our market reach, and drive shareholder value.
“We truly believe that existing and future customers will greatly benefit from this partnership, offering easy access to a wider range of quality products based on their needs and quality services even after point of purchase,” said Thomas Tok, CEO of Cycle & Carriage.
Jamie Morais, Managing Director of Stellantis Malaysia expressed his gratitude and said “Today marks a significant milestone for Stellantis Malaysia, and we are thrilled to welcome our new dealer partner to our growing network. This is a testament to our commitment to delivering exceptional service and expanding our reach to better serve our valued customers.
“Cycle & Carriage’s reputation for excellence aligns perfectly with our values and we look forward to setting the new standards in the industry to provide unparalleled customer experience.”
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