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  • PDRM adds Honda City sedan to its patrol vehicle fleet

    PDRM adds Honda City sedan to its patrol vehicle fleet

    Honda vehicles have proved to be a popular choice for patrol vehicles with the Royal Malaysian police (PDRM) in recent times, with the force first utilising 435 units of the Honda Civic FC 1.8L for the job back in 2020 before switching over to the Civic FE 1.5L Turbo earlier this year.

    Now, the department looks to be adding the Honda City to its patrol vehicle fleet, if the sighting of a trailer load of the facelifted sedan, all kitted in PDRM livery, is any indication. A video clip uploaded on the Paultan.org Automotive Discussion Group page on Facebook shows six City sedans, complete with roof strobe lights, being moved on a transporter.

    The petrol City sedan is powered by a 1.5 litre naturally-aspirated inline-four DOHC i-VTEC engine that delivers 121 PS (119 hp or 89 kW) at 6,600 rpm and 145 Nm at 4,300 rpm, with drive going to the front wheels via a CVT.

    Expect to see posts about the new City patrol vehicle units, sourced by government vehicle fleet supplier Spanco, making the rounds on social media in the near future.

     
  • Chery Tiggo 8 Pro e+ PHEV previewed in Malaysia – 326 PS, 545 Nm, up to 80 km EV range, launch soon?

    Chery Tiggo 8 Pro e+ PHEV previewed in Malaysia – 326 PS, 545 Nm, up to 80 km EV range, launch soon?

    While Chery’s stand at the Malaysia Autoshow wasn’t exactly a hubbub of activity (the real action for the company was happening elsewhere), the Chinese brand still had something to show at the event. As promised, it debuted the plug-in hybrid version of the Tiggo 8 Pro, the e+, albeit only as a preview and in left-hand-drive form.

    At the heart of this particular Tiggo 8 Pro sits the Omoda 5’s 156 PS/230 Nm 1.5 litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, here paired to twin electric motors integrated into the three-speed dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT). Total system output is rated at 326 PS and an impressive 545 Nm of torque.

    In China, the Tiggo 8 Pro e+ is available with two battery sizes – the smaller one delivers a pure electric range of 42 km on the WLTP cycle, while the larger 19.27 kWh unit stretches this to 80 km. All models support up to 29 kW DC fast charging and up to 6.6 kW AC charging; the bigger battery also enables a vehicle-to-load (V2L) function at up to 3.3 kW.

    Chery says that its PHEV has nine operating modes – single-motor pure electric, dual-motor pure electric, series and extended range mode, direct engine drive mode and parallel drive mode. Despite differentiating between single- and dual-motor operation, the Tiggo 8 Pro e+ is resolutely a front-wheel-drive vehicle.

    The other four are related to energy recovery – parking and charge mode, driving and charge mode, single-motor brake energy regeneration and dual-motor brake energy regeneration. This is par for the course for PHEVs, with the exception of the aforementioned single- and dual-motor modes.

    There’s little that differentiates the e+ on the outside, unlike in China where it gets an entirely new front end. That means you’ll still find a massive Audi-style “galaxy” front grille, trapezoidal LED headlights with twin L-shaped daytime running lights, chrome door and window strips and full-width taillights. Even the 19-inch two-tone alloys are identical to the petrol version’s.

    Chery Tiggo 8 Pro e+ PHEV previewed in Malaysia – 326 PS, 545 Nm, up to 80 km EV range, launch soon?

    Just three items are actually different – the charging port door on the front left fender, the blue ring around the fuel filler cap and a new diffuser that dispenses the real quad exhausts for twin fake ones. That’s not surprising, given that you also see this on the Omoda 5 with the same engine.

    The same can be said about the interior, which carries over the seven-seat layout, Mercedes-inspired dashboard (replete with a widescreen display panel with twin 12.3-inch screens) and even the black-and-brown colour scheme. The only visible difference is the blue trim on the electronic gear selector.

    No details about local availability have been revealed, only that the car will arrive in CKD locally-assembled form. The car was initially scheduled to arrive early this year, and that deadline has long since passed, so your guess as to when it will actually come are as good as ours. Are the specs good enough to tempt you into one when it eventually arrives here? Sound off in the comments after the jump.

     
  • April 2024 Malaysian vehicle sales down by 18%: MAA

    April 2024 Malaysian vehicle sales down by 18%: MAA

    The Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) has released vehicle sales data for the month of April 2024, announcing that a total of 57,991 vehicles were delivered to buyers last month. This is 13,061 units less than the 71,052 units reported by the association for March, representing a 18.4% reduction in volume.

    The association said that the drop in numbers last month was due to a short working month as a result of Hari Raya festive holidays.

    Compared to the same month in 2023, April’s total was 21.3% (or 10,189 units) higher than the 47,802 units achieved last year. As for the year-to-date TIV numbers for the year, the first four months of 2024 has seen 260,236 units delivered, which is 8.3% (20,019 units) higher than the 240,217 units managed in the same period last year.

    The association added that vehicle sales in May are expected to be slightly higher compared to April.

     
  • Kineta, ChargEV sign MoU to further develop Malaysia EV charging network, bid for large ASEAN tenders

    Kineta, ChargEV sign MoU to further develop Malaysia EV charging network, bid for large ASEAN tenders

    Electric vehicle charging solutions provider Kineta has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with ChargEV to further enhance and expand the electric charging network in Malaysia. The wholly-owned subsidiary of Sime Darby Berhad said the strategic partnership is in line with its goal of providing “the most comprehensive EV charging solutions and EV charging network” to customers and business partners.

    In addition, the deal will enable the two entities to jointly bid for selected large tenders in Malaysia and the region. Kineta says it has one of the largest Energy Commission (ST)-certified teams, with 40 electrical engineers ensuring safety and regulatory compliance of all installations, as well as fully-fledged in-house customer service, after-sales, technical support and warranty teams.

    Meanwhile, ChargEV is a leading charging network provider in Malaysia and Singapore, and it also helps businesses electrify their sites and onboard them to its network.

    “With our combined forces, we can certainly accelerate the government’s aspirations to have 10,000 chargers within the next few years,” said Kineta managing director Sunny Lee. “We believe this partnership represents a major milestone in our EV industry, merging ChargEV’s extensive charging infrastructure network between Malaysia and Singapore and KINETA’s total EV charging solutions to ease the transition to electric vehicles for all drivers.”

    Kineta, ChargEV sign MoU to further develop Malaysia EV charging network, bid for large ASEAN tenders

    ChargEV managing director Seng Teong Chua added: “Battery Electric Vehicles only made up 1.45% of new car sales in 2023, but as demand for fully electric vehicles grows, so will the demand for easily accessible, reliable, and seamless charging infrastructure. With KINETA’s solid track record in delivering high-quality installation, customer-centricity, and an innovative approach to product development, we believe this is just the start of an electrifying partnership.”

    The two companies say they are committed to supporting the country’s aspirations of having a 15% EV market share by 2030, aligning with the government’s Low Carbon Mobility Blueprint and the National Transition Roadmap. Kineta recently debuted a new one-stop Kineta Charge app, so perhaps the partnership means the ChargEV network will now be integrated into this app.

     
  • Mercedes-Benz Malaysia sets out to elevate customer experience with Star Elegance lifestyle retail concept

    Mercedes-Benz Malaysia sets out to elevate customer experience with Star Elegance lifestyle retail concept

    Yesterday’s launch of the Mercedes-Benz EQE 350+ SUVs and sedans also saw Mercedes-Benz Malaysia introducing Star Elegance, a new lifestyle retail concept offering a host of experiential services, all aimed at elevating the customer experience in the brand’s showrooms.

    Making its debut with a luxury nail spa at Hap Seng Star’s Bukit Tinggi facility, the range of wellness services available under Star Elegance will be expanded over several phases, with new brands and collaborators offering a repertoire of luxury retail services set to be enlisted in the near future.

    “Mercedes-Benz Malaysia is pioneering an industry-first by integrating a wellness-centric approach into our retail environment. The Star Elegance concept seamlessly blends innovative retail experiences with meticulously curated lifestyle elements, creating a holistic and unprecedented luxury experience for our customers,” said Mercedes-Benz Cars Malaysia CEO and president Amanda Zhang.

    The company added that the introduction of Star Elegance is strategically aligned to insights gleaned from focus groups involving nearly 400 MBM customers, where 94% of the customers said they find the idea of a lifestyle retail concept interesting, and 91% said they would patronise a lifestyle shop while their vehicle was being serviced.

    “Star Elegance epitomises our commitment to delivering the pinnacle of customer experience and setting new standards in luxury automotive solutions. This initiative underscores our unwavering dedication to meeting the diverse and sophisticated needs of our esteemed customers, solidifying Mercedes-Benz as the premier choice in the luxury automotive segment,” said Mercedes-Benz Cars Malaysia’s VP of customer services, Edmin Naidoo.

     
  • 2024 Honda ADV 350 in Malaysia, RM33,999

    2024 Honda ADV 350 in Malaysia, RM33,999

    Getting its launch at the Malaysia Auto Show is the 2024 Honda 350, priced at RM33,999 ex-showroom. There are three colour schemes offered – Mat Gun Powder Black Metallic, Pearl Smoky Gray and Mat Candy Tulip Red along with a two-year or 20,000 km warranty against manufacturing defects.

    The ADV 350 with its adventure motorcycle bodywork styling slots between the Honda X-ADV 750 (RM68.899 in Malaysia) and the Honda ADV 160 (RM12,999). Power for the ADV 350 comes from a 330 cc Enhanced Smart Power+ (eSP+) single-cylinder SOHC four-valve, liquid-cooled engine.

    Power for the ADV 350 is claimed to be 28.9 hp at 7,500 rpm and 31.9 Nm of torque at 5,250 rpm. A CVT gearbox and belt drive gets power to the rear wheel.

    Wheel sizing for the ADV 350 is 15-inches in front and 14-inches at the back, wearing 120/70 and 140/70 rubber front and rear, respectively. Equipped with two-channel ABS and two-mode traction control (with off mode), the ADV 350 does braking with single 256 mm disc in front and a 240 mm disc in the rear.

    2024 Honda ADV 350 in Malaysia, RM33,999

    Suspension uses 37 mm diameter upside-down forks in front and preload adjustable twin shock absorbers at the back. Riding conveniences include a USB charging port, height adjustable windshield and keyless start, along with a 48-litre storage compartment under the seat.

    Weight for the ADV 350 is listed at 186 kg, with an 11.7-litre fuel tank and 795 mm seat height. The ADV 350 displays the necessary information on an LCD instrument panel while LED lighting is used throughout.

     
  • Jaecoo Malaysia signs partnership with 30 dealers for distribution, aftersales across 35 dealerships

    Jaecoo Malaysia signs partnership with 30 dealers for distribution, aftersales across 35 dealerships

    Jaecoo Malaysia has officiated its partnership with 30 dedicated dealers in the country at the 2024 Malaysia Autoshow, the company has announced.

    These 30 dealers will operate 35 dealerships in charge of distribution and aftersales of Jaecoo vehicles across the central, northern, southern and East Malaysia regions, stated the company, and its network of dealerships are supported by a dedicated auto parts warehouse as well as a production plant in Malaysia, it added.

    Jaecoo Malaysia dealerships get brand signature features such as a ‘super walkway’ which greet customers upon entry, while other conveniences include a dedicated coffee bar, product displays, and a delivery lounge.

    Jaecoo Malaysia signs partnership with 30 dealers for distribution, aftersales across 35 dealerships

    “Hand-in-hand with our dealer partners, we are excited to deliver best-in-class vehicles equipped with innovative technology and the absolute best customer experience to the Malaysian market,” said Jaecoo Malaysia president Leo Chen.

    Our investments encompass an ecosystem of strategically positioned dealers and comprehensive facilities, complemented by a strong team of service advisors and highly skilled technicians. This is the foundation of Jaecoo’s strength and a testament of our readiness to launch in Malaysia,” said Jaecoo Malaysia vice president Emily Lek.

    The company’s announcement at the event came alongside its preview of the all-electric J6, while the J7 is also slated for launch soon in Malaysia.

    The J6 on display at the 2024 Malaysia Autoshow is a early unit, being a left-hand-drive example, and pricing has yet to be disclosed. Meanwhile, the petrol-powered J7 is closer to its Malaysia market debut, and the SUV is estimated to be around the RM160,000 mark; read our impressions of the 2024 Jaecoo J7 here.

    GALLERY: 2024 Jaecoo J6 previewed in Malaysia

    GALLERY: 2024 Jaecoo J7 tested off-road

     
  • GWM Haval H6 Hybrid previewed – Malaysian spec, 2 variants, 243 PS, 530 Nm, 5.2 l/100km, Q3 2024 launch

    GWM Haval H6 Hybrid previewed – Malaysian spec, 2 variants, 243 PS, 530 Nm, 5.2 l/100km, Q3 2024 launch

    Alongside the Tank 300 at GWM’s Malaysia Autoshow stand sits the Haval H6 Hybrid, being previewed ahead of its launch in the third quarter of the year. The eagle-eyed among you will have noticed that this exact model was displayed at the same show last year, but the company says that the petrol-electric SUV is truly almost ready to go on sale.

    There is a hint of “This really is it, I promise” about the whole affair, but for what it’s worth, GWM did bring two supposedly Malaysian-spec units to the event. The Metal Grey car you see here appears to be an entry-level car, slotting beneath a Jade Green (more baby blue than anything) example that we have already shown you during our Auto China coverage.

    Both variants are powered by the same hybrid powertrain, consisting of a 150 PS/230 Nm 1.5 litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a 177 PS/300 Nm electric motor, the latter integrated into the two-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT). Total system output is 243 PS and 530 Nm of torque, and GWM claims a combined fuel consumption figure of 5.2 litres per 100 km.

    GWM Haval H6 Hybrid previewed – Malaysian spec, 2 variants, 243 PS, 530 Nm, 5.2 l/100km, Q3 2024 launch

    On the outside, the H6 Hybrid is as per what was shown last year, replete with the “Star Matrix” grille first seen on the plug-in hybrid model. Matrix LED headlights and full-width LED taillights are shared across both variants, with the differentiator being the wheels – 18-inch two-tone alloys on the low-spec car and 19-inch black rollers on the high spec.

    Inside, the low spec gets sober black leather upholstery with white stitching and silver trim, whereas the high spec is more showy with black-and-white interior and rose gold trim. Both come with the same level of tech – a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, a Qi wireless charger and eight speakers.

    Also common to both variants are power-adjustable front seats (with lumbar adjustment for the driver), dual-zone climate control, rear air-con vents, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, a 360-degree camera system and a powered tailgate. The high-spec model is differentiated by a panoramic glass sunroof, a head-up display and shoulder switches on the front passenger seat.

    GWM Haval H6 Hybrid previewed – Malaysian spec, 2 variants, 243 PS, 530 Nm, 5.2 l/100km, Q3 2024 launch

    Both cars seen here come with a windscreen camera, meaning that they should both come with the same level of advanced driver assistance systems.

    These will likely include autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane centring assist, an Intelligent Evade system that gives more space in the lane for large vehicles such as lorries, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert with auto brake, traffic sign recognition and auto high beam. One item that will probably be reserved for the high-spec model is park assist.

    GALLERY: GWM Haval H6 low spec at Malaysia Autoshow 2024


    GALLERY: GWM Haval H6 high spec at Auto China 2024

     
  • No date set yet for start of targeted diesel subsidies

    No date set yet for start of targeted diesel subsidies

    While the Cabinet has given the green light to proceed with the implementation of targeted fuel subsidies, no timeframe for its execution has yet been ventured. That could be a while more, given that the government has not yet made a decision regarding the implementation date, as indicated by domestic trade and cost of living (KPDN) minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali.

    He said that although the government has agreed in principle to begin targeted fuel subsidies this year, it will only set the implementation date when the Cabinet is satisfied with the targeting mechanism and ensuring that target groups that will receive social assistance will get it, as Bernama reports.

    “As soon as the government refines and strengthens the social assistance mechanism for the target groups, I believe the government will then announce the implementation date,” he said. As announced by prime minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on Tuesday, the implementation of targeted fuel subsidies would begin with diesel in the peninsula, with that for Sabah and Sarawak to be set aside until later.

    No date set yet for start of targeted diesel subsidies

    The PM also said that subsidies will be given to traders using diesel-powered commercial vehicles under the subsidised diesel control system 2.0 (SKDS 2.0) programme, essentially covering 10 public transportation vehicle and 23 goods transport vehicle types in order to prevent any drastic increase in the cost of goods and services.

    Armizan said that KPDN will implement several measures to ensure no parties take advantage of price gouging on controlled goods after the diesel price adjustment is enforced. He said that the ministry has approaches to address the possibility of price gouging on essential goods.

    He added that a total of 28,000 land transport companies have registered and received approval under the SKDS 2.0 implementation, and 90,000 fleet cards have been issued by five major oil companies to eligible transport companies.

     
  • Proton Saga – two million units of the national car sold

    Proton Saga – two million units of the national car sold

    The Proton Saga has surpassed the two million-unit mark in units sold, the carmaker has announced. The nameplate spans four generations beginning in 1985, which was succeeded by the second-generation model in 2008, followed by its facelift in 2010.

    The Saga SV arrived in 2013 as a value-added base variant, before the third-generation car was launched in 2016. This subsequently received its first facelift in 2019, when it swapped its CVT gearbox for a four-speed Hyundai-sourced unit.

    Another update for the Saga followed, in the form of the MC2 ‘minor change’ facelift that arrived in 2022. This carried on with no mechanical changes, continuing to use the 1.3 litre naturally aspirated inline-four petrol engine with 95 PS and 120 Nm, with the Standard MT variant becoming the sole manual transmission variant across Proton’s line-up.

    One mechanical change to the Saga came in mid-2023, when the sedan switched from the Hyundai automatic transmission to a Aisin-sourced unit, continuing to be a four-speed gearbox.

    Looking back to earlier versions of the Saga, there continues to be much affection for the original, exemplified not least by this 1990 1.5S model as restored by Dream Street Restoration.

     
  • GWM Tank 300 open for booking in Malaysia – RM250k est. price, deliveries of off-road SUV set to start in July

    GWM Tank 300 open for booking in Malaysia – RM250k est. price, deliveries of off-road SUV set to start in July

    Great Wall Motor Malaysia has announced that the order books have opened for the Tank 300, with the off-raod SUV expected to make its way into the local market very soon. Slated to be introduced in Q2, the company says that deliveries are due to begin in July following its official launch, which is now expected to be sometime next month.

    As previously indicated during its preview in March and recent test drive in China, the Tank 300 will arrive here as a CBU fully-imported offering, and will be offered in its non-hybrid 2.0 litre turbocharged inline-four petrol engine form. Estimated pricing has also been firmed up, with the SUV anticipated to be priced in the region of RM250,000, slightly lower than the first indication of it offered earlier this month.

    To recap, the mill will offer 220 PS (217 hp or 162 kW) and 380 Nm in the way of output, with drive delivered via an eight-speed automatic transmission and a dual-speed, electronically-controlled part-time four-wheel drive system. Technical highlights include an all-terrain control system with nine driving modes, a ramp angle of 23.1° and a maximum gradability of 70%, along with a maximum wading depth of 700 mm.

    Inside, you’ll find a well-appointed interior, with novelties including a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen – with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support – as well as Nappa leather upholstery. Standard fit items include a nine-speaker Infinity sound system, automatic air-conditioning and double-layer acoustic glass (for improved in-cabin NVH levels), among others.

    Meanwhile, driver assistance kit on the ANCAP five-star rated SUV will include items such as adaptive cruise control, lane drparture warning and autonomous emergency braking as well as a 360-degree all-around view monitor with a Transparent Chassis Function.

    The Tank 300 is of course on display at the ongoing Malaysia Autoshow 2024, shown at the event in its regular forms as well as the unit you see in these images, a specially-kitted version that dresses the SUV up with body-coloured flares and flashy accoutrements such as the OTT bonnet and cool-looking aluminium storage box mounted on the rear access panel of the vehicle.

    However, don’t get too excited about all the glitz that’s on show or hoping that it will be offered here, because it won’t be, not through official channels at least. According to GWM Malaysia, the black display unit and its Chinese-market accessories was brought in to show potential customers what can be done in terms of customisation for the vehicle, should they wish to explore that path.

     
  • 2024 Honda Transalp 750 Malaysia debut, RM56,800

    2024 Honda Transalp 750 Malaysia debut, RM56,800

    Not quite the return of the legendary XLV750 but the 2024 Honda Transalp 750 makes it Malaysian debut at the on-going Malaysia Auto Show 2024, priced at RM56,800 ex-showroom. The XL750 Transalp slots in between the Honda NX500 (RM37,099) and Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin (RM117,888) in Boon Siew Honda’s adventure-touring catalogue.

    The Transalp 750 carries a liquid-cooled, eight-valve parallel-twin with 270-degree crank and SOHC displacing 755 cc. Power is rated at 90.5 hp at 9,500 rpm with a maximum torque of 75 Nm at 7,500 rpm going through a slipper and assist clutch equipped six-speed gearbox and chain final drive.

    Suspension for the XL750 Transalp uses Showa 43mm SFF-CA (Separate Function Fork-Cartridge) upside-down forks and preload-adjustable rear monoshock. The Transalp gets 200 mm of suspension travel in front and 190 mm in the rear, with 210 mm of ground clearance.

    Catering to off-road sensibilities, the Transalp 750 comes with a 21-inch wheel in front and an 18-inch hoop in the rear. Tyre sizing is 90/90 and 150/70, front and rear, respectively.

    The Transalp 750 carries 16.9-litres of fuel in the tank while seat height is set at 850 mm and weight is listed as 208 kg. In Malaysia, primary competition for the Transalp 750 comes from the Yamaha Tenere 700, priced at RM69,988.

     
  • 2024 Kia EV3 debuts as brand’s new compact EV SUV – up to 600 km range; 204 PS; Volvo EX30 competitor

    2024 Kia EV3 debuts as brand’s new compact EV SUV – up to 600 km range; 204 PS; Volvo EX30 competitor

    After some light teasing, Kia has officially unveiled the all-new EV3. The South Korean brand’s latest electric vehicle (EV) joins the EV5, EV6 and EV9 as a compact SUV that will go on sale in its home country in July, with Europe and other regions set to follow from the second half of this year.

    First previewed by an identically named concept last October, the EV3 is built on the E-GMP (Electric-Global Modular Platform) but doesn’t get an 800V architecture like the EV6 and EV9. Instead, it follows the EV5 by using a 400V architecture, which enables a DC fast charging that can get the 81.4-kWh battery from a 10-80% state of charge in about 31 minutes.

    Fully charged, the EV3 delivers up to 600 km of range following the WLTP standard, but bear in mind the figures mentioned so far only apply to the Long Range variant. There’s also a Standard Range model with a 58.3-kWh battery which gets less range.

    In a media briefing prior to the debut, Kia said the company went with a nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) chemistry for the battery instead of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) because the former offered better power outputs and had a longer lifespan. Full charging details weren’t provided but the EV3 is said to come with a vehicle-to-load (V2L) system and will definitely support AC charging.

    Regardless of the battery chosen, both variants share the same electric motor, which is mounted at the front instead of the rear. Outputs are 204 PS (201 hp or 150 kW) and 283 Nm of torque, enabling a 0-100 km/h time of 7.5 seconds and top speed of 170 km/h.

    The EV3 gets eDTVC (Electric Dynamic Torque Vectoring Control) to ensure optimum traction on the move, while a new piece of Kia tech to debut here is i-Pedal 3.0 regenerative braking, essentially one-pedal driving with different levels of adjustment available to the driver.

    In terms of dimensions, the EV3 measures 4,300 mm long, 1,850 mm wide, 1,560 mm tall and packs a wheelbase of 2,680 mm. For context, that’s about the size of a Volvo EX30 and the current Honda HR-V we have back home. The SUV also has a 25-litre frunk and a 460-litre boot, the latter said to be best in its class and with an adjustable two-tier luggage board with 140 mm of load height flexibility.

    Kia EV3 EV3 GT-Line

    If you found the EV5 and EV9 appealing to look at, the EV3 will likely be in your good books as well. Appearing as a sort of “baby EV9”, Kia’s latest adopts the Opposites United design philosophy and features boxy rear fenders, a sloping roofline as well as a robust stance. Despite the chunky shape, the drag coefficient (Cd) is quoted at just 0.263.

    Meanwhile, the ‘Tiger Face Star Map’ carries a daytime running light signature reminiscent of constellations that has light bars wrapping around the main headlamp clusters that carry several individual diodes.

    A closed-off grille is also part of the front end, which gets two bumper designs. The base version has its lower intake large covered up and is joined by black trim with an array of vertical slats. Go with the GT-Line and it’s a design that looks to be inspired by the EV6, with “tusk-like” elements on either side of a large black section with small cutouts.

    The prominent bookends are replicated at the rear of the GT-Line to frame the number plate, while the base model is less expressive. Both get the same taillights which mimic the DRLs seen up front. For the EV3, Kia is offering nine body colours, including two exclusive ones called Aventurine Green and Terracotta.

    Kia EV3 interior – base variant (left); GT-Line (right)

    Moving inside, we find a minimalistic dashboard design that doesn’t stray too far from what we saw in the concept. The air vents are positioned in a single file to simulate a full-width look and act to separate the dash into two sections, with the bottom having physical controls for the air-conditioning system while between the central air vents is a simple media volume control.

    Above that is almost 30 inches of screen real estate, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and a five-inch air-conditioning touch panel.

    This setup is like what you would find in the EV9 and is meant to promote ergonomics and ease of use along with the multi-button steering wheel that is lifted straight from the latest EV6. Buyers can also option a 12-inch head-up display that projects information on the windshield to minimise driver distraction.

    Recycled materials are used for many parts of the cabin, which comes with Air, Earth and Water trim finishes. There are also several colour themes to choose from, including Subtle Grey, Warm Grey, Blue and Onyx Black, the last of which is a GT-Line exclusive.

    For practicality, the centre console incorporates a sliding table and storage area in addition to a few driving-related controls. There’s also storage under the console for items as large as a small backpack, while other notable features include ambient lighting and seats that come with a fold-back relaxation mode.

    As for the infotainment system, it integrates LG’s Automotive Content Platform (ACP) powered by webOS to enable in-car gaming and content consumption, complemented by a Harman Kardon sound system. The infotainment also has configurable themes (purchasable through the Kia Connect Store) and another first for a Kia EV, an AI assistant.

    No shortage of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) with the EV3 either, with available features being Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Highway Driving Assist, Reverse Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist and Remote Smart Parking Assist.

    What do you think of the Kia EV3? Do you like the way it looks and what do you think of the range and tech it comes with? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.

    Kia EV3

    Kia EV3 GT-Line

     
  • 2024 Citroën C3 Aircross shown in Malaysia – 7-seat SUV with 110 PS 1.2T 3-cyl; Ami Buggy also on display

    2024 Citroën C3 Aircross shown in Malaysia – 7-seat SUV with 110 PS 1.2T 3-cyl; Ami Buggy also on display

    Peugeot may be the star of Stellantis’ Malaysia Autoshow stand, but those who venture towards the back of the booth will also be treated to a few left-field offerings from Citroën. But hang on, didn’t this quintessential French brand sell its last car here at the end of 2020?

    Yes, but haven’t you heard? Stellantis Malaysia is poised to bring Citroën back to our shores as a “mainstream” brand (think of it as a rival to Toyota and Honda), and its presence here is a look at things to come. To that end, the company is showcasing two cars, namely the C3 Aircross and Ami Buggy.

    Citroën C3 Aircross

    2024 Citroën C3 Aircross shown in Malaysia – 7-seat SUV with 110 PS 1.2T 3-cyl; Ami Buggy also on display

    The C3 Aircross is a world away from the Euro-centric little tyke that was previously sold here. It’s now grown into a seven-seater SUV very much in the vein of the Perodua Aruz and the dearly-departed Honda BR-V. It’s built on the Smart Car Platform and has been designed with the Southeast Asian market in mind, made in India.

    Measuring 4,323 mm long, 1,796 mm wide and 1,669 mm tall, the C3 Aircross is quite a bit smaller than the Aruz (4,435 mm long) and especially the BR-V (the new second-generation model is 4,490 mm long), and it has the shortest wheelbase of all at 2,671 mm. It is wider than all of them, however, which should free up some shoulder room, especially at the back.

    Power comes from the 1.2 litre PureTech turbocharged three-cylinder engine last seen in the Peugeot 208, producing 110 PS at 5,500 rpm and 205 Nm of torque at 1,750 rpm. Drive is sent to the front wheels through a choice of either six-speed manual or automatic gearboxes, the latter obviously being a shoo-in for our market.

    The C3 Aircross’ distinctive design features split headlights with X-shaped daytime running lights, chunky wheel arch flares, scalloped fender surfacing, C-shaped taillights and thick body-coloured C-pillars split by a black band; this defines the border of the optional two-tone colour scheme. Unlike the recently-introduced European model, this car still doesn’t get the new Citroën badge with the oval border.

    The car you see here is locked and heavily tinted, so we can’t show you the interior. However, you can expect to find a seven-inch digital instrument display, a ten-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a cool interlocking design for the air vents.

    Unfortunately, the C3 Aircross only comes with two airbags and no driver assistance systems whatsoever (not even autonomous emergency braking). We can imagine Stellantis will have to do some significant reengineering to add these much-requested features – including six airbags at the minimum – for our market.

    Citroën My Ami Buggy Concept

    2024 Citroën C3 Aircross shown in Malaysia – 7-seat SUV with 110 PS 1.2T 3-cyl; Ami Buggy also on display

    The other car being shown is a real oddball. This is the Ami Buggy, an off-road version of the Ami electric quadricycle. Specifically, it’s the My Ami Buggy concept shown in late 2021, coming with knobbly ATV-style tyres (wrapped over tiny ten-inch wheels), skid plates, wheel arch extensions and a bull bar at the front.

    Other concept-specific touches include head- and taillight guards, a “visor” over the front windscreen, a roof rack with a front light bar and a spare wheel, and a complete lack of any doors. In place of the latter are tubular “protectors” that house deployable transparent rain guards for inclement weather. No, this is not road-legal in the slightest. The car is finished in matte black with a retina-searing yellow interior.

    All these cutesy beach buggy design cues go on top of an already cuddly package – the Ami is a tiny city runabout that measures just 2,400 mm long, 1,390 mm wide and 1,520 mm tall, making it an absolute cinch to park. It’s slightly longer and quite a bit wider than the Renault Twizy that was once sold here. That “car” (if you could call it that) sat two occupants in tandem; the Citroën can just about fit two people side-by-side.

    Those two people will have a hard time getting anywhere quickly, because the Ami draws just 8 PS (6 kW, or half that of a Twizy) from its single motor, giving it a top speed of only 45 km/h. A tiny 5.5 kWh battery provides a range of 70 km, with a full charge taking three hours from a 220-volt domestic socket.

    Of course, the Ami isn’t a real consideration for the Malaysian market, owing to its lack of power, top speed, a right-hand-drive version (yes, even in the UK) and any safety features whatsoever (even the Twizy had a driver airbag for crying out loud). But are you excited to see the Citroën brand back in Malaysia? Sound off in the comments after the jump.

    GALLERY: Citroën C3 Aircross at Malaysia Autoshow 2024


    GALLERY: Citroën My Ami Buggy Concept at Malaysia Autoshow 2024

     
  • Mitsubishi at 2024 Malaysia Autoshow, until May 26 – interactive activities, rebates, and trade-in deals

    Mitsubishi at 2024 Malaysia Autoshow, until May 26 – interactive activities, rebates, and trade-in deals

    Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) is taking part in the 2024 Malaysia Autoshow that is happening throughout this week until Sunday, May 26, which is where the brand will be offering a host of activities themed around outdoor adventure, along with deals for customers who book selected Mitsubishi models during the event.

    Located at P1 of Hall A1 at the Malaysia Agro Exposition Park Serdang (MAEPS) with the theme of Outdoor Camping Adventure, the Mitsubishi booth aims to offer a “unique escape into nature, providing an opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and to the serenity of the great outdoors,” says the company.

    Present on-site will be a range of interactive activities including a coffee drip workshop for coffee enthusiasts, a camping cooking demonstration for ideas on whipping up a meal while outdoors, as well as a Fire Starter Challenge.

    For buyers who make bookings for selected Mitsubishi models at the event, there will be rebates of up to RM7,000 in addition to exclusive trade-in deals, along with a Thous Winds storage bag worth RM400; terms and conditions apply. There will also promotions on products from participating lifestyle brands at the Mitsubishi booth.

    These include a 20% discount on a Thule roof rack package worth RM5,000, and visitors who purchase a Thule roof rack package at the event are entitled to receive a Thule Tact five-litre sling bag worth RM500, free of charge. There will also be 20% off all Montanic lifestyle goods on location, along with 30% off the Tryveler camping package at the Treegrow campsite worth RM90 per person.

    There’s more. Visitors to the Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia booth at the autoshow may also take part in games to win prizes including Tryveler camping packages, a Thule shuttle bag, Montanic lifestyle items, portable camping lights, sanitisers and more.

    Also scheduled for the weekend are celebrity appearances by Izzue Islam on Saturday, May 25 from 1pm to 3pm, and by Anas Ridzuan on Sunday, May 26, from 2pm to 4pm. Also offered to visitors at the booth are popcorn treats, as well as coffee on the weekend.

     
 
 
 

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Last Updated May 23, 2024

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