Peugeot Returns With 408 – 3 Variants, 1.6T, From RM146k

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French marque Peugeot has made a re-entry into the Malaysian market, after parent company Stellantis took back control of the brand from its second distributor in three years. Marking the local relaunch of the brand is the 408, which has gestated from a 308-with-a-boot that it used to be into a standalone fastback crossover.

Three variants make landfall today in the form of the 408 Allure, 408 Premium and 408 GT. All three models are built in Gurun, and will command pricetags of RM146,055, RM166,055 and RM196,055 respectively. 

The new 408 is built on the Stellantis EMP2 platform, and is quite a sizeable machine. Measuring in at 4,687mm in length, 1,859 in width and 1,487mm in height, sitting on a 2,787mm wheelbase and a noteworthy 189mm of ground clearance. This measures up favourably with other C-segment contenders like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla Altis, but Stellantis insists that the 408 sits “in a class of its own.”

The French crossover isn’t holding back in terms of specifications – all cars get full LED headlights & taillights as standard, but only the top-spec GT gets Matrix LED units. Wheel sizes start at 18” Granite Black units for the Allure, rising to 19” Granite Black dual-tone units for the Premium, before topping out with 20” Monolithe Black units for the GT. Notably, only the lower two variants get a spare tyre – the GT makes do with a tyre repair kit. 

Other exterior items include a chrome grille for Allure & Premium variants while GT rocks a body-colour unit instead.

The cabin is also well-specified with standard ‘leather’ upholstery, though the keener-eyed will notice that the Allure packs faux leather, the Premium gets full real leather, and the GT is offered with Nappa leather. Only the two top models get electrically-adjustable front seats (with memory & massage function for the GT), as the Allure makes do with a manual pew for the front passenger. 

Further standard specification includes a 10-inch i-Cockpit display, with the GT offering a 3D Quartz version of the system. You also get a 10-inch HD colour infotainment system as standard but again, the GT upgrades this with an i-Toggle system beneath (essentially a secondary touchscreen with configurable shortcuts). 

Audio is also where the cars differ, with Allure & Premium models making do with 6-speakers while the GT gets a 10-speaker Focal Premium audio system. The GT also sports a cabin air-cleaning system, but all cars offer wireless phone charging and a bevy of USB ports front and rear. 

Stellantis Malaysia says that safety shouldn’t be a luxury, and they’re putting their money where their mouths are with the 408. Standard kit includes autonomous emergency braking, electronic stability program with hill-start, high-beam assist and traffic sign recognition, tyre-pressure monitoring, a 180º reverse camera, active bonnet pedestrian impact protection, and six airbags. 

Step up into the Premium and you gain (in addition to the Allure) things like advanced traffic sign recognition, front parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, upgraded autonomous emergency braking (we haven’t a clue what this entails), blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. This is also carried into the GT, which gains the adaptive Matrix LED lights we mentioned earlier. 

The 408 can be had in Obsession Blue, Perla Nera Black, Okenite White, and Artense Grey. It’s a bit of a headache but the Allure doesn’t get Obsession Blue, the Premium gets all four colours, and the GT doesn’t get Artense Grey. Makes sense? 

To combat perception around the brand, the Peugeot 408 will be sold with a 7-year/200,000km warranty. However, only 3-years is a manufacturer warranty and the following 4-years is from Stellantis Malaysia (which crucially will mirror the manufacturer warranty). 

GALLERY – 2024 PEUGEOT 408 GT

Porsche 911 GT3 RS Arrives – 525PS, 296km/h DRS, from RM2.63m

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A race car for the road.

Porsche has today introduced the flagship 911 variant in the Malaysian market, offering customers the most uncompromised, performance-focused model in the lineup. The 911 GT3 RS offers the lightest, most driver-centric experience for customers, dialling-up the already-impressive 911 experience. 

“The new 911 GT3 RS resembles a race car more closely than ever before, offering near Cup car-like performance for our growing base of track-enthusiast customers. We are delighted to introduce this highly-anticipated model during the second Porsche Carrera Cup Asia race weekend in Malaysia, with motorsports passion in the air.”

Christopher Hunter, Chief Executive Officer, Sime Darby Auto Performance 

Designed for maximum performance, the 911 GT3 RS packs a 525PS 4.0-litre motor behind the rear wheels, mated to a PDK dual-clutch automatic as standard. The extra performance was eked out with new camshafts and modified cam profiles, with a motorsports-derived single-throttle intake system. Shorter gear ratios on the PDK gearbox also ensures quicker acceleration with greater capacity to withstand the extreme loads that performance driving demands. 

The century sprint is completed in a mere 3.2-seconds, while top-speed is rated at 296km/h. Aluminium monobloc fixed-calliper 6-piston brakes ensure that stopping is done fuss-free and reliably every time, but Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) remain an option for customers. Rolling stock is set at 275/35 R20s at the front, and 335/30 R21 at the rear for the highest-performance grip.

Weight is kept in check with an extensive use of carbon-fibre both inside and out, in addition to more lightweight construction methods resulting in a total weight of just 1,450kg. Aiding this is a reworked cooling system that makes use of just one radiator that more effectively cools the transmission, brakes and engine while further reducing weight.

Downforce is a major factor with the 911 GT3 RS – headlining features include the gooseneck-mounted hydraulic rear spoiler that incorporates drag-reduction technology to maximise speed, as well as ducting in what would have been the front luggage compartment that Porsche says now more closely resembles their 911 GT Cup cars more than ever before. This they say was “the best compromise” to deliver the most racecar-like experience in a road-going model.

Convenience for customers is also a key consideration, with the inclusion of four rotary dials on the steering wheel that allow the adjustment of various suspension settings on the fly. For example, the rebound and compression damping over each axle, the rear diff-lock, and DRS can be fettled with without taking your hands off the wheel, with all changes displayed dynamically via specific displays in the instrument cluster. 

All purchases of the Porsche 911 GT3 RS will include access to Porsche-exclusive events, like track days and owners-club events. The price of RM2.63-million is inclusive of taxes, duties, and official support from Sime Darby Auto Performance, but while the Clubsport package (black leather, Racetex, and carbon-fibre weave) comes as standard, the Weissach pack will command a premium over sticker. 

Weissach Package highlights include a carbon-fibre finish on the front lid, roof, rear-wing, and upper-shell of the exterior mirrors. The roll bars front and rear, coupling rods at the back, and the shear panel on the rear axle are also done in carbon-fibre to enhance driving dynamics, with the rollover bars alone saving 6kg over the standard steel versions.  

2023 PORSCHE 911 GT3 RS – with optional Weissach Package – SEPANG INTERNATIONAL CIRCUIT

2020 Mercedes-Benz G350d Launched – 3.0-Turbo Diesel, 286hp, 600Nm, RM1-Million

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The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is widely considered as the mac-daddy of SUVs, arguably one of the most desirable off-roaders available on the market. With its bold design going through few changes between its original debut in 1979, the G-Wagen is loved by almost-all and is considered to be something of a pop-culture icon. 

However, locally, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class was only available as a full-bore AMG63 model, with a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8. For those who believe that cars like the G-Wagen ought to double-down on its versatility, the petrol-V8 mill was never the best engine for such purposes – and now, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has addressed the call for more versatility. The G-Class is now available as a G350d, which sticks a proper turbodiesel mill up front for maximum capability. 

The new OM656 engine increases the performance of the G-Class while reducing consumption, without compromising the noise characteristics of the thing. Notable points of the OM656 mill include the stepped-bowl combustion process, two-stage exhaust turbocharging, as well as the use of CAMTRONIC variable valve timing. This heats up the exhaust system without impacting fuel consumption. Pair that to the Nanoslide coating on the cylinder walls, and it results in a diesel mill that’s about as smooth as an oiler is ever going to get. 

The 3.0-litre inline-6 mill prepares the G-Class for any adventure. Paired to a 9G-tronic automatic transmission, the G350d can rocket from rest to 100km/h in a sprightly 7.4-seconds before going on to a top speed of 199km/h.

For the transmission of power, the 9-speed torque-converter auto was adapted specifically to meet the needs of the G-Wagen. The developers used a dedicated software application to shorten the shift and response times, making the G-Class more reactive. The wide spread of ratios also help to make driving more comfortable and quiet, while still being able to respond swiftly to prods of the pedal. Especially in first-gear, the G-Class responds to commands noticeably better, which owners will appreciate when pulling away from traffic lights, for example. 

The transfer case is mounted directly to the transmission, and is designed to send 40% of the power to the front with 60% sent to the rear. This is particularly beneficial on the road – permanent all-wheel drive ensures maximum traction on-road. That said, the G can also vary power more considerably during off-road applications thanks to the built-in G-mode.

The G350d is offered locally with the AMG Night Package, which throws in 20-inch AMG alloys, smoked headlights/taillights and indicators, and the exterior protective strip features a black pinstripe. You also get grille louvres, spare-wheel ring, and bumper trim elements finished in obsidian black. This is offset by the standard Stainless Steel Package, comprising of high-quality running boards, a stainless-steel wheel cover (with black 3-pointed star), door sills, and load sills. 

The cabin is finished with the Exclusive interior pack, with combines high-quality equipment items like a leather-covered instrument panel, a DINAMICA microfibre roof liner in black, and a frameless interior rear-view mirror. The cabin features dual widescreens for both instrumentation as well as multimedia, powered by a standard Mercedes-Benz infotainment system. The infotainment system offers navigation and smartphone mirroring as standard, as well as a configurable instrument cluster design. 

Safety-wise, the G350d is pretty well equipped. You get the Driving Assistance Package, which means you get adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and autonomous emergency braking. Of course, you’d expect this at this price point.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz G350d is available at showrooms now from RM999,888, inclusive of the SST deduction as part of the PENJANA economic stimulus program. All new 350d models will be sold with Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s comprehensive 4-year warranty, and the current prices will be valid until December 31st 2020. 

GALLERY: 2020 Mercedes-Benz G350d

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB200, GLB300, AMG GLB35 Launched, From RM270k

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We always want more. And whenever one steps into a compact Mercedes-Benz, you can’t help but want a little more space.

Today, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia answers that call with the all-new, first-ever Mercedes-Benz GLB. A member of Mercedes’ compact car lineup, its diminutive size hides its practicality, with seven seats on offer spread across three rows. That’s right – this is now the most affordable premium 7-seater SUV money can buy.

The GLB is available in Malaysia in three guises – the GLB200, the GLB250, and the Mercedes-AMG GLB35. Power starts at 163hp/250Nm in the 200, while the 250 gives you 224hp & 350Nm. Step up to the AMG and you get 306hp & 400Nm, paired to an all-wheel drive system. All cars get an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic as standard and, if it all feels a bit familiar, you’ll know that this is exactly the same spread as seen in the A-Class lineup. 

That also means that the base GLB200 gets its motivation from a 1.33-litre motor, while its bigger brothers use the same 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder. 

“The GLB is the most versatile SUV in our premium SUV range. Its design lends the GLB an unmistakable SUV character, showcasing its classic off-road boxy design from its big brother, the G-Class. With a boot capacity of up to 1805L and a third row of seats, it’s the perfect companion for those who desire a life with more possibilities.”

– Michael Jopp, Vice President (Sales & Marketing, Passenger Cars), Mercedes-Benz Malaysia

The powerful proportions of the GLB underscore the off-road focus of the design: the design emphasises surface, and reduced lines and precise panel gaps. This conveys superior sportiness and modernity. The upright front section with its striking headlamps is clear evidence of the off-road genes, as are the short overhangs at the front and rear. The front apron with visual skid plate emphasises the unmistakable SUV character. Another key feature of the front-end design is the distinctive air intakes in the front apron that are tailored to the contours of the radiator grille. 

On the sides, the GLB is donned with attached panels under the doors and the wheel arches that further underscores the off-road impression and at the same time, protect against stone chips. The muscular and sensuously contoured vehicles shoulder dominated the side view, an effect reinforced by the rising beltline at the height of the C-pillar.

The GLB has a clear rear-end emphasising width with two-piece tail lamps and reflectors relocated to the bumpers. The precise interior design of the tail lamps also ensures a high recognition value at night. The elevated roof rails are made of polished aluminium.

At 2,829mm, the GLB has ten centimetres more wheelbase than the new B-Class, making it the largest of Mercedes-Benz’s compact offerings. Together with the function-oriented greenhouse, it allows the GLB to offer a generous amount of space. The headroom in the first seat row is 1,069mm – “optimum in this segment,” claims Mercedes. And at 967mm, the effective legroom in the rear of the 5-seater is at an especially comfortable level. 

Cargo is rated at a minimum of 570L with all the seats up, but can be expanded to a maximum of 1805L. Backrests can be adjusted as standard, while the second row seats can also be rolled forwards and backwards in order to fully maximise the cargo area. For the third row, the GLB offers comfortable seating for passengers up to 1.68M in height, though the third row can also be used for children thanks to the standard ISOFIX mounts with top tethers. There are also drinks holders for the third row, along with USB charging ports – just to make sure you don’t feel like you’re in the cheap seats. 

The front-half of the cabin is very familiar as a compact Mercedes, with the dual-display widescreen cockpit that was first presented in the A-Class hatchback when that was launched. The GLB will offer both screens in full-size and full-resolution (thankfully), with inputs split between the touchpad on the centre console, the touchpads on the steering wheel, and the central touchscreen itself. The screens run the full Mercedes-Benz User Experience or MBUX suite, with a myriad of display customisations available to the driver. With MBUX comes MercedesMe Connect, which pairs an app up with your car to allow you to remote-start it, pre-condition it, lock/unlock it, and check its status via your mobile phone. 

Safety is something the GLB doesn’t overlook, by offering Active Braking Assist with turning-off function. When the driver intends to turn off across an oncoming lane, the GLB can brake automatically if it detects a potential collision. Braking intervention takes place when the driver hits the turn signal, and the car can be brought to a halt before it passes the lane markings. If you don’t indicate the system doesn’t flick on – so remember to hit that turn signal stalk, yeah.

The GLB also offers active parking assist too, which makes living with the GLB an even easier affair. 

Prices for the new Mercedes-Benz GLB start at RM269,118.15 for the GLB200, while the GLB250 AMG-Line retails for RM318,009.26. If you’re after all-wheel drive or more performance, the Mercedes-AMG GLB35 4Matic will set you back RM363,136.52. All prices are inclusive of the current SST reduction as part of the PENJANA programme, and is effective until December 31st 2020. 

All new Mercedes-Benz GLBs will be covered by Mercedes-Benz’s standard warranty program, which covers your car for 4-years with no mileage cap.

GALLERY: 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB200 Progressive Line

GALLERY: 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB250 AMG-Line

GALLERY: 2020 Mercedes-AMG GLB35 4Matic

2020 Porsche Taycan Unveiled – 4S, Turbo, Turbo S, 340km Range, RM725k Upwards

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German luxury marque Porsche has unveiled its answer to the growing wave of electrified mobility, a car that offers the spirit of the Stuttgart brand while staying on-point at the bleeding edge of engineering innovation. The Porsche Taycan is the brands first-ever all-electric series production vehicle, designed to take on cars like the Tesla Model S and the Audi e-tron GT, as well as indirect competitors like the Mercedes-Benz EQC and BMW iX3. 

The Taycan will most notably be offered in Malaysia with the Performance Battery Plus option as stnadard, which upgrades the power capacity to 83.7kWh over the standard 71kWh. This means that range o the new Taycan will never be an issue regardless of which model you opt for.  

Taycan 4STaycan 4S* Taycan TurboTaycan Turbo S
Battery (net)71.0kWh83.7kWh83.7kWh83.7kWh
Range407km463km412km450km
Power530hp490hp625hp625hp
Overboost530hp571hp680hp761hp
Torque640Nm650Nm850Nm1,050Nm
0-100km/h4s4s3.2s2.8s
0-200km/h13.3s12.9s10.6s9.8s
PriceRM725,000TBCRM999,000RM1,195,000

*with Performance Battery Plus

What we find particularly interesting is that Porsche Malaysia offers an innovative range-predictor function on its site, that you can play around with to show precisely what kind of driving you have in mind. That allows you to more accurately figure out just how much range you can expect to see in real-world conditions – needless to say, all numbers we saw were comfortably in excess of 300km no matter how we fiddled with it. 

As important as range is charging – the Taycan claims to be as fast ‘standing still as it is in motion,’ and thanks to its 800-volt architecture it really an soak up the juice at record speeds. 

Via the Mobile Charger Connect unit connected to an 11kW power point, the Taycan can be recharged to full in about 8-hours. Step up to the Porsche Charging Dock, and weirdly you’ll drop your charging speeds to 9.6kW and your charging time will go up to as much as 10.5-hours. 

With a 50kW DC fast charger, the Taycan can go from 5% charge to 80% charge in just 93-minutes – this is important as these types of DC fast chargers are expected to spring up more readily throughout the country. The fastest charging option is the Porsche Turbo Charger – available at selected Porsche dealerships across the country, 5%-80% charge can be completed in just 22-minutes and 30-seconds, with an average of 100km of range added with every 5-minutes. 

All Porsche Taycans will come with the same complimentary 4-year maintenance & warranty program offered by SDAP, with the battery covered under an 8-year warranty. Customers can option to extend the warranty coverage for both the vehicle & battery for up to 15-years. 

Despite being a full-electric vehicle, the Taycan offers true Porsche performance with incredible traction & handling. The Taycan Turbo S goes from 0-100km/h in just 2.8-seconds, identical to what can be achieved by its Formula E sibling, the Porsche 99X. 

“The Taycan is the first purely-electric sports car from Porsche and marks the beginning of a new era into the field of electromobility. It is still undeniably a Porsche – you can feel the soul of the Taycan the second you get behind the wheel. It feels and drives like a true Porsche.”

– Christopher Hunter, Chief Executive Officer, Sime Darby Auto Performance 

To accommodate charging at home, a full electrical check of parking facilities will be conducted at the homes of all Taycan owners by a certified provider engaged by SDAP. A report will be issued after the home visit to determine the compatibility of the charging equipment and next steps for optimal home charging. Of course, you can always make do with Porsche Turbo Charging with its 175kW DC fast-charging, able to add 100km of range in just 5-minutes. 

GALLERY: 2020 Porsche Taycan Turbo S

Mini John Cooper Works GP Arrives In Malaysia – 10 Units, 306hp, RM378k

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While Mini models have long been known for offering go-kart thrills in a city-friendly package, MINI Malaysia has turned up the wick today by offering the most powerful MINI in history – the new, limited-edition Mini John Cooper Works GP.

“In MINI’s 60-years of gracing both the racetracks and the streets, we continue to be revelled for our legendary racing success. Today, 14-years on, designers and engineers are paying tribute to the first MINI John Cooper Works GP once again with the successor – the fastest and most powerful MINI GP ever built.”

Harald Hoelzl, Managing Director, BMW Group Malaysia

Minis have always been known to offer immense driving pleasure, but it’s safe to say that every aspect of the new JCW GP pushes everything to the extreme. This is evident in both the engine and performance characteristics – This is an intense, purist race feeling machine, conveyed by what is by far the most powerful engine ever used in a MINI, with suspension technology that is fine-tuned based on John Cooper Works’ extensive racing expertise and a body that’s been weight-optimised as much as possible.

Under the bonnet lies the star of the show – with 306hp and 450Nm, this is the peppiest and punchiest MINI ever. 0-100km/h is handled in just 5.2-seconds, and it’ll go onward to a top speed of 265km/h. All this punch is what enabled the the JCW GP to lap the Nürburgring in less than 8-minutes, making it significantly faster than the car it replaces. 

The JCW GP will only be made available in its exclusive Racing Grey metallic, with the roof & mirror caps finished in Melting Silver. The hexagonal radiator grille, inserts in the lower air intake and the inside of the roof spoiler is finished in a contrasting Chili Red, accentuated by GP insignia in Rosso Red matte on the front, the rear, the outer sides of the enormous spoiler, and in the foils above the side skirts and door sills.

However, black is utilised to finish off the surrounds for the lights, the central radiator grille, the handles, the fuel filler cap, the bonnet inlay, and the MINI logos on either end. This is, purportedly, to emphasise the uncompromisingly sporty flair of the new JCW GP.

In all four corners you’ll find 18-inch lightweight forged alloy wheels, weighing less than 9kg each, finished off with GP logos in the centre caps. Above each of the alloys you’ll find the bold and unmissable wheel arch flares, manufactured through a special process and material combination that is a first for the BMW Group, with a thermoplastic substructure finished with carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) on the outside.

You will also find emblazoned on the front arches a 4-digit number, denoting the actual build number of the car itself. Only 3000 of these cars are available globally, and the numbers on the fenders will denote where in that limited production run each car sits in.

Inside the first thing you’ll notice are the seats – lightweight units to, well, reduce weight, they’re upholstered in Dynamica leather with silver side edges, red accentuation seams and seat belts, and a GP badge beneath the integrated headrests. On the passenger’s side of the dash you’ll find a piece of trim again bearing the individual build number of each car, produced using a state-of-the-art 3D printing process. That same process features on the steering wheel for the centre marking for the 12 o’clock position, as well as the paddle shifters. 

GP logos finish off the cabin on the floor mats, matched by twin stripes on the gear selector, and the bright-red cross-member that sits behind the front seats. No, there is no back seat in the JCW GP – you didn’t really think there would be, did you?

In the centre of it all you’ll find the MINI Visual Boost infotainment system, replete with navigation and accompanied by a 5-inch fully-digital instrument cluster. The JCW GP is also pretty well equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay, a must-have in the premium segment, going some way to make up for the lack of Android Auto. 

The Mini John Cooper Works GP is available at all authorised MINI dealerships across the country, with prices set at RM377,470.90 including the current SST tax exemption for fully-imported vehicles.

The Mini JCW GP is covered by the same 4-year/unlimited mileage warranty as other MINI models, along with 5-years roadside assistance and other benefits. 

Reckon that this is the track machine to set your heart alight? Let us know in the comments below. 

GALLERY: 2020 MINI John Cooper Works GP – RM377,470.90 with SST exemption

Mini Electric Makes Local Debut – 270km Range, 28.9kWh Battery, RM218k

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For the first time in its 6-decade history, British marque Mini has finally come to embrace the electric mobility revolution in the form of the all-new Mini Electric. Making its local debut today, the Mini Electric also marks an important milestone for parent company BMW Group Malaysia, as it now offers the most number of all-electric models in its lineup compared with any other brand available locally. Joining the BMW i3s, the Mini Electric represents an important shift for the Mini brand as well as BMW Group, as the German conglomerate positions itself aptly to take on the wave of battery-electric vehicles.

“For the very first time and in celebrating MINI’s 61st birthday, we are thrilled to bring this innovation into reality with the New All-Electric MINI. Since we introduced the first electrified MINI model with the MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid, electrified MINIs have become a fan-favourite worldwide. In 2019, MINI delivered close to 17,000 units of the Countryman PHEV worldwide. This success drives our commitment towards electromobility even further as it underlines the increasing shift towards electrified vehicles among MINIacs globally.”

Harald Hoelzl, Managing Director, BMW Group Malaysia

Available as a 3-door, the Mini Electric occupies no more space than its conventionally-powered siblings. Despite that, they’ve managed to cram a 28.9kWh battery in a T-shaped configuration under the skin. Thanks to that, the Mini Electric enjoys a maximum range of 270km (based on the NEDC cycle), with motivation provided by a 184hp/270Nm motor that powers the front wheels. “Maximum thrill of the road without the carbon footprint,” they claim. 

Notably, the battery can be recharged from 0-80% in just 36-minutes via a DC fast-charger, though more realistically you can expect similar results from a MINI Wallbox charger or a public charger in about 2.5-hours. Additionally, power can be recuperated via braking regeneration, which on its own is significant enough to enable one-pedal driving for the first time on a series-production MINI.

To mark it out as the new Mini Electric, the car features lots of unique flourishes about the place guaranteed to draw your eye. There are specific bumpers and a grille up front in grey with an Energetic Yellow E-Badge. And there are grille blades that can be had in either grey or yellow, depending on how bold you’re willing to be. Lighting is provided by Matrix LEDs on the front and signature Union Jack units at the rear, while there are E-Badges on the side scuttles too to mark it out. The mirror caps have been aerodynamically-optimised for minimum drag, and can be had in either Black or Energetic Yellow, while all mirrors (exterior & interior) offer anti-dazzle functionality as standard. 

The Mini Electric also runs on 17-inch dual-tone alloys as standard, with run-flat tyres.

Round the back, you can find a charging flap with an embossed E-Badge as well, marking it out as the all-electric model. However, the tailgate handle comes in grey as standard to provide contrast, as do the E-Bagdes and model badging that feature Energetic Yellow also for contrast.

Stepping inside, you’ll find unique features like the Electric Cockpit Fascia, the yellow start-stop button, unique floor mats and gear lever, as well as the brake-regent toggle. Both driver and front passenger get to enjoy dual-zone climate control while seated on carbon-black cross-punch leather seats, while they’ll be dazzled by the 12-colour ambient lighting setup when the singes down. There’s also a sports steering wheel that’s leather-wrapped for the driver, as well as a raised centre console with integrated electric parking brake. Centre-stage is an 8.8-inch infotainment display with the MINI Connected suite, as well as a MINI-first all-digital instrument cluster for the first time. 

Despite the need for a battery, it hasn’t hampered the Mini Electric’s practicality at all. There’s 211L of space behind the rear seats as standard, just like the regular three-door model, while the total maximum cargo space with the rear seats folded is rated at 731L. Adding to the practicality is Apple CarPlay smartphone mirroring as well as a wireless charging tray, though it’s noteworthy that Android Auto remains noticeably omitted. 

Another unique feature of the Mini Electric pertains to the all-important driving experience – the four driving modes on offer (Sport, Mid, Green, and Green+) are all tailored to suit the new state-of-the-art MINI eDrive system, which offers things like the Green Driving Assistant that features the Range Assistant that suggests routes and solutions should there be insufficient charge for any given journey. There’s also an efficient Green Route that will suggest driving mode and stop-overs at charging stations, while the navigation system will automatically show a given range based on the charge level at any given time.

The Mini Electric also offers connectivity via the MINI Connected app. With Connected, you can monitor your Mini’s charge level at any given time, monitor your driving stats, and even read up on how you can maximise the efficiency of your drive. Additionally, you can also precondition the car to a set temperature while it’s being charged, ensuring that you enjoy comfortable motoring no matter the time of day. 

Debuting on the Mini Electric is the Driving Assistant package, which consists of automatic high-beam at speeds above 50km/h, city-speed autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control. You also get autonomous parking and all-round parking sensors as standard. 

The new Mini Electric can be had in the exclusive White Silver with Energetic Yellow pairing, or you can have it in British Racing Green, or Chili Red. The new Mini Electric is available through all authorised MINI dealerships nationwide beginning today, priced at RM218,380.78

Like all new MINI models, the Mini Electric is covered by a 4-year warranty with 5-years roadside assistance, as well as free towing services, replacement vehicle, Seamless Mobility, Accommodation, Mobility Services Solutions as well as Repatriation services. The battery is separately covered by an 8-year/100,000km warranty.

The Mini Electric can be had with Balloon Financing from BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia, with ownership starting at RM2,421/month bases on an 80% loan estimate over a 5-year tenure. 

Like the new Mini Electric? Reckon 270km range is more than enough for you to do your daily commute? Let us know in the comments below.

GALLERY: 2020 MINI Electric – Launch Gallery

2020 Mercedes-Benz C200 Coupé AMG-Line – 2.0-litre Turbo, 204hp, 300Nm, RM337k

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Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has today introduced an updated version of its C200 Coupé AMG-Line, which offers even more live connectivity as well as a new powertrain. There’s a new engine under the bonnet – a 4-cylinder turbo unit now replaces the 1.5-litre EQ Boost mild-hybrid engine, and there’s more smarts in the cabin too. And all of this, for RM336,129.38 (with SST tax exemption).

We’ll talk about the exterior first – the C200 Coupé continues to put its foot forward in AMG-Line trim, with its more aggressive bumpers on either end and a diamond-pin grille between the full-LED headlights. 18-inch twin-five spoke alloys in a bi-tone finish sit in every corner (with run-flat tyres), and full-LED taillights round up the exterior features.

Under the bonnet there’s a new engine – it’s now ‘upgraded’ with a 2.0-litre turbocharged mill producing 204hp and 300Nm, with power going to the rear wheels via a 9G-Tronic automatic transmission. The century sprint is now completed in just 7.2-seconds, with V-max rated at 245km/h.

Previously, the C200 Coupé AMG-Line used to hit 100km/h in 7.9-seconds and tapped out at 239km/h. Rated fuel consumption for the ‘new’ engine is 6.8L/100km.

Inside, there’s still a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch central infotainment screen, which supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, while it continues to offer the same Audio 20 GPS system, there’s now full LTE connectivity – but that will require its own paragraph.

The biggest update to the C200 Coupé AMG-Line comes in the form of Mercedes me connect, allowing customers to be fully connected to the car at all times. With me connect via the app, you can lock & unlock the car, remote-start the engine (allowing you to pre-condition the cabin before entry), and locate the vehicle remotely. 

The rest of the cabin remains unchanged, in the form of Artico faux-leather upholstery, a Nappa leather-wrapped steering wheel, AMG floor mats & pedals, powered front seats with lumbar support, an extensive ambient lighting system, and anthracite open-pore wood trim.

They’ve also included a Qi wireless charging tray, though the purpose of that is unclear given that Apple CarPlay and Android Auto both need wired connections…

The new C200 Coupé AMG-Line continues to offer features like cruise control, blind spot monitoring, active brake assist and pre-collision warning, active parking assist, and a reverse camera. We’ve actually driven the C300 Coupé AMG-Line – check out our review of the more powerful sibling here.  

GALLERY: 2020 Mercedes-Benz C200 Coupé AMG-Line, with Mercedes me connect

Porsche Taycan On Track For Introduction This Year – SDAP Celebrates A Decade With Porsche

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Sime Darby Auto Performance, the sole official distributor of Porsche vehicles in Malaysia, has reiterated its intent to launch the all-electric Porsche Taycan in our market this year. Despite the pandemic and global economic recession, SDAP is still keen on introducing the first-ever all-electric production Porsche this year, likely as a way to celebrate its 10th year as the official Porsche distributor in our market. 

There were concerns about whether or not SDAP would be able to do it, given the current state of things. But via a short clip on their Facebook page, SDAP made clear that the new Taycan will be here before the year is up, but it hasn’t gone as far as to confirm when exactly it’ll do so.

However, while SDAP made clear that the new Taycan will be here before the year is up but it hasn’t gone as far as to confirm when exactly it’ll do so.

What’s also unclear is how the Taycan will arrive in our market – the Taycan is available globally as a standard model (dubbed ‘Taycan’), the Taycan 4S, the Taycan Turbo, and the Taycan Turbo S. The most powerful of the four models packs two electric motors (one on either axle) to produce 751hp and 1,050Nm, capable of rocketing the Taycan Turbo S from nought to 100km/h in just 2.8-seconds, and on to a top speed of 260km/h.

The Turbo and 4S also use a dual-motor setup but they’re down-tuned to produce 671hp/850Nm and 523hp/640Nm respectively. That said, the 4S can be upgraded to include the ‘Performance Battery Plus’ pack (which is standard on the Turbo & Turbo S models) which then upgrades performance to 563hp and 650Nm.

The Turbo, Turbo S, and the Performance Battery Plus-equipped models come with a 93.4kWh battery pack, while the Taycan & Taycan 4S make do with a 79.2kWh unit. All variants offer both AC and DC charging, with a 463km maximum range via WLTP testing standards. 

In addition to the Taycan, it’s likely that Some Darby will be throwing out more goodies to mark its decade of cooperation with Porsche in Malaysia. Back in 2020, Porsche Asia Pacific (PAP) sought a new main distributor for the Porsche franchise here in Malaysia, and Sime Darby stepped in to fill the role. 

GALLERY: 2020 PORSCHE TAYCAN TURBO S

Q by Aston Martin Creates New 007 Limited Edition Sports Cars to Celebrate ‘No Time To Die’

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Aston Martin is celebrating the release of the 25th James Bond film, with two exclusive 007 special editions inspired by the cars featured in No Time to Die. This new collaboration between Aston Martin and EON Productions, the company that produces the James Bond films with Metro Goldwyn Mayer Studios, delivers exciting new 007 editions of the Aston Martin Vantage and DBS Superleggera.

No Time To Die will be released around the world in November 2020 and will feature no fewer than four iconic Aston Martin sports cars: the iconic DB5; the classic Aston Martin V8; the brand’s latest super GT, DBS Superleggera; and the exceptional Aston Martin Valhalla – the company’s forthcoming mid-engined hypercar.

The two special editions that celebrate the release of No Time To Die, each of which is being offered in limited numbers to buyers around the world from today, have been carefully designed and crafted by the experts in Aston Martin’s bespoke division: Q by Aston Martin. Aspiring to offer the ultimate in bespoke personalisation services, Q by Aston Martin delivers both carefully curated special editions such as these, as well as the opportunity for individual owners to embark on the creation of utterly individual sports cars via the Q by Aston Martin – Commission service.

The first of the two models is the Vantage 007 Edition, inspired by the original Aston Martin V8 which made its 007 debut in The Living Daylights in 1987 and also features in No Time to Die. The movie sees James Bond uncover the car from his personal lock-up in London.

Building on the formidable sporting style and aggressive performance of the regular Vantage, the new car features unique exterior styling treatments led by a bespoke mesh grille with chrome bezel that references the look of the brand’s classic V8. Further styling details include a dashed yellow diffuser inspired by the hazard stripes on the film car’s rockets. The Vantage 007 Edition can even be delivered with a set of The Living Daylights inspired limited edition skis and ski rack – referencing the ‘winterised’ V8 saloon from the film.

The car will be delivered in authentic Cumberland Grey exterior paint colour, whilst the interior will be presented in obsidian black leather and dark chrome with 007 branding applied on the centre console of cars equipped with a manual gearbox. The sun visors of all the cars will carry another subtle film reference in the shape of an embroidered radio station frequency – 96.60 (FM) – which 007 buffs will know was the Russian police frequency Bond used to aid his escape in The Living Daylights.

The seats themselves feature unique heritage fluting reminiscent of that seen in the V8, along with carbon fibre seat backs and, in a particularly detailed nod to the 1980s film, the outline of cello ‘f holes’ inspired by the memorable cello chase scene featuring James Bond (Timothy Dalton) and Kara Milovy (Maryam D’Abo).

The driver can indulge themselves further with a laser-etched gadget plaque that references the various weapons and devices seen on the original film car. These included a rocket motor, missiles, lasers, a targeting display and ski outriggers. Cross hairs etched onto the car’s paddle shift gear levers allude to the missile guidance system seen in the film, too. Available as a manual or automatic, the Vantage 007 Edition also boasts a side strake Vantage badge and is limited to 100 units globally.

“Creating a 007 Edition is always an exciting challenge as we work to develop and style a car that embodies the legend of James Bond. It is an honour to apply the carefully-judged 007-inspired styling to our sports cars, which gives our customers the opportunity to own a unique piece of both cinematic and automotive history.”

Marek Reichman, Vice President & Chief Creative Officer, Aston Martin

To celebrate the James Bond debut of the range-topping Aston Martin DBS Superleggera, a second unique 007 Edition has been created.

Strictly limited to just 25 production cars available worldwide and featuring the same specification as the muscular DBS Superleggera featured in the upcoming film, the car has a suitably menacing road presence.

The 715bhp provided by the DBS Superleggera’s 5.2-litre V12 twin-turbocharged engine is befitting of the car’s range-topping status while its torque peak, at 900Nm, is not only substantial in its own right but, as things currently stand, the greatest torque figure for any roadgoing Aston Martin yet produced.

To this potent mix, the DBS Superleggera 007 Edition adds a raft of styling and design enhancements that further elevate its appeal. The car sports special Ceramic Grey exterior paint with the roof, mirror caps, splitter, diffuser and rear Aeroblade II featured in black tinted carbon fibre. Also unique to the 007 Edition are visually striking Gloss Black diamond-turned Y-Spoke 21” wheels. This special edition also features a 007 fender badge, finished in chrome with a black enamel infill and Stainless Steel Silver 007 foil applied to the rear spoiler blade.

Inside, the cockpit of this DBS Superleggera is a dark, brooding, leather-clad environment with flashes of red detailing the outline of the seats. Subtle 007 branding can be found on the door cards, armrest buckle badge and on the rear sub-woofer cover. The car is finished with a sill plaque that recognises it is one of just 25 DBS Superleggera 007 Editions. 

The DBS Superleggera 007 Edition with a recommended retail price from RRP £279,025 (RM1,530,763.75 before tax) and the Vantage 007 Edition with a recommended retail price from RRP £161,000 (RM883,264.81 before tax)are on sale separately now. First deliveries will begin in Q1 2021.

GALLERY: Q BY ASTON MARTIN CREATES NEW 007 LIMITED EDITION SPORTS CARS TO CELEBRATE ‘NO TIME TO DIE’