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

BMW X3 M Competition, X4 M Competition Arrive – 510hp, 600Nm, From RM887k

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Not content with just the flagship M8 and M8 GranCoupe, BMW Group Malaysia also introduced two more accessible variants to the M lineup in the form of the X3 M Competition and X4 M Competition. These two machines are targeted more at customers who need a splash of practicality to go along with their driving thrills, as despite their raised ride heights and rooflines both the X3 M Competition and X4 M Competition are geared at the sort of owners who actually go to the track. 

“For over two decades, the BMW X range has been unrivalled in the high-performance mid-size segments, having pioneered some of the most advanced four-wheel drive technology in the industry. Tonight, BMW Malaysia is thrilled to be introducing two additions not just to the BMW X fairy but also the high-performance lineup – the first-ever BMW X3 M Competition and BMW X4 M Competition.”

– Harald Hoelzl, Managing Director, BMW Group Malaysia

The BMW X3 M Competition and BMW X4 M Competition further expands the BMW X portfolio of powerful Sports Activity Vehicles (SAV) and Sports Activity Coupes (SAC) respectively. Both bring a whole new level of speed and performance to the segment, with their new BMW M TwinPower Turbo engines capable of 510hp.

In addition to power, the new high-powered SAV and SAC are also equipped with advanced driver assistance systems and intelligent in-car connectivity features. This includes the Driving Assistant Plus that offers optimal support during sporty driving.

The BMW X3 M Competition and BMW X4 M Competition both appear with the characteristically-M design elements, complemented by the sporty aesthetics of the BMW X. The powerful front section of the vehicles are made up of a distinctive front apron and a large, hexagonal air intake – built to ensure optimal ventilation for the front brakes under high thermal loads. The BMW M models also feature adaptive LED headlights with high-beam assistance, along with full-LED taillights as standard.

A long bonnet and wheelbase, steeply-raked windscreen, and slightly-rectangular wheel arches lend the new models an exceptionally sporty silhouette. The M Sport exhaust system – recognisable by its four black-chrome tailpipes, adds an unmistakable sound when going full-throttle and at high-revs. The new BMW M models also run on 21-inch bi-colour M light alloys equipped with Adaptive M suspension.

Black kidney grille surrounds, side gills and wing mirror caps are also standard to the models. Individually, the X3 M Competition features a slim rear diffuser in high-gloss black and an M-specific roof spoiler. The X4 M Competition on the other hand features a black spoiler at the rear.

Both the SAV and SAC feature a number of M-specific components for a more engaging driving experience, improving performance and handling dynamics. The strut brace up front improves stiffness when subjected to strong lateral acceleration. Complemented by adaptive dampers, stiffer stabilisers, an Active M Differential and M Compound Brakes, the X3 M Competition and X4 M Competition are some of the sharpest driving tools out there both on the road and on the track.

Both cars are powered by the same 3.0-litre straight-6 twin-turbocharged petrol engine, producing an identical 510hp and 600Nm. Power goes to all-four wheels via an 8-speed M Steptronic automatic gearbox capable of lightning-fast gearchanges.

Both cars can hit 100km/h from rest in just 4.1-seconds too – do bear that in mind if you have kids in the back.

The interiors of the X3 M Competition and X4 M Competition welcome passengers with an iconic M interior ambience that is both sporty and elegant. Front passengers are greeted with M-branded entry sills, as well as comfortable sports seats with active seat ventilation, lumbar support, and illuminated ‘M’ badging on the headrests. The M leather steering wheel reflects the “superior performance” of both these cars, with shift paddles, red M Drive buttons, and a red start/stop button. The sense of intensity are then complemented further by the redesigned M gear selector and three-level controls for the engine, damper, and steering responses.

Additionally, the new BMW M models include carbon fibre trim, contrast stitching in ‘M’ colours, M seatbelts, pedals, and kneepads. The digital instrument clusters in both cars are also unique to them, with M-specific layouts and formats that are designed to engage and excite.

As these two cars are still activity machines in nature, they’re still reasonably practical. The X3 M Competition offers about 550L with the seats up, but can be expanded up to 1600L with the seats down. On the swoopy-roofed sibling, standard luggage capacity measures in at 525L with a grand total of 1430L available with the rear seats down.

Speaking of the rear seats, the X3 M Competition offers backrest adjustment for the rear-seat passengers, as well as retractable sun-blinds for the rear side windows for added comfort.

Both cars offer a bevy of connectivity and convenience features, such as a colour heads-up display with M-specific displays, and Parking Assistant Plus with Surround View and Remote 3D Service. Infotainment is served up via a 10.25-inch Control Display that can be operated via a central iDrive controller, touch input, or Gesture control. They’re both also offered with ConnectedDrive services as standard, equipping Concierge Services, Teleservices, Remote Services, Intelligent Emergency Call, and Apple CarPlay as standard too. No Android Auto though, but music is played through a Harman Kardon audio system with a 600W amplifier, nine channels, and 16-speakers.

Intelligent assistance systems such as Driving Assistant Plus and Parking Assistant Plus are also bundled into both models, along with Comfort Access with an automatic tailgate. There’s also a wireless charger for smartphones somewhere in the cabin…

The X3 M Competition and X4 M Competition are both available in 6 exterior colours and, depending on the chosen finish, can be had in either black, orange (more like a light-tan), or grey Merino leather upholstery.  

The new BMW X3 M Competition and BMW X4 M Competition are available from all authorised BMW dealerships from RM886,551.58 for the former, and RM904,276.60 for the latter. Retail pricing is on-the-road without insurance, as well as a 5-year unlimited-mileage warranty and free scheduled servicing. 

GALLERY: BMW X3 M COMPETITION & X4 M COMPETITION MAKE DEBUT AT M TOWN

GALLERY: 2020 BMW X3 M COMPETITION

GALLERY: 2020 BMW X4 M COMPETITION

BMW Unveils M8, M8 GranCoupe – 4.4-Litre V8, 600hp, 700Nm, From RM1.45mil

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BMW Group Malaysia decided to usher in the weekend with a bang with the arrival of no less than four new M cars in a bespoke setting they called ‘The Secret Garage at M Town,’ modelled after the secret garage in the M Division headquarters in Munich, Germany.

The flagship introductions of the night were the M8 Coupe and the M8 GranCoupe, the two- and four-door performance flagships of the BMW lineup. The former marks the first-ever ‘official’ M8, with only one prototype of a proposed ‘BMW M8’ in existence locked deep in the BMW M garage. The M8 GranCoupe arrives as an accompaniment for those who want the style, agility and performance, but need a couple of extra back seats as not to completely disregard the practicality demands of daily life. 

“At the BMW Group, M is the Most Powerful Letter in the World, as it represents the high-performance vehicles born out of pure passion for motorsports. This fascination for power, speed, and dynamics has put M on the map since 1972. Today, we are pleased to bring together superior aesthetics and unimaginable power via the first-ever BMW M8 Coupe and first-ever BMW M8 GranCoupe, right here in the Secret Garage and M Town.” — Harald Hoelzl, Managing Director, BMW Group Malaysia

The arrival of the M8 marks a whole new level of performance, as it benefits from the most powerful engine developed by BMW M. The M8 Gran Coupe makes use of the same engine too: A 4.4-litre TwinPower Turbo V8 producing no less than 600hp and 750Nm, with power going to all-four wheels via an 8-speed M Steptronic automatic paired to an M xDrive all-wheel drive system. The Coupe can dispatch the century sprint in just 3.3-seconds, while the GranCoupe is only a blink slower. 

Drivers of the M8 Coupe and M8 GranCoupe can choose between three different drive modes depending on the mood: There’s ‘Efficient,’ ‘Sport,’ and ‘Sport Plus’ to choose from, which are all pretty self-explanatory. Each mode changes the V8’s response to the pedal, and alters the sound of the flap-controlled exhaust system. There are also paddles behind the steering wheel too, to induce even more aural histrionics (or, you know, for greater control over the performance). 

The M xDrive system is worth mentioning too, because it’s no rudimentary all-wheel drive system. It splits torque between the axles depending on the driving conditions and chosen settings, but it is rear-biased by default. The 4WD Sport mode will channel more power toward the rear, while the 2WD mode keeps the power on the rear wheels alone. The 2WD mode can only be activated with the stability control off, to ensure maximum engagement for drivers intent on raising their blood pressure. 

Both cars also feature adaptive dampers and a double-wishbone front suspension, while the rear features a 5-point multilink setup. Both the Coupe and GranCoupe come with M Compound brakes with blue brake callipers, along with the M-exclusive integrated brake system (which bundles brake activation, brake boosting, and braking control all in one). 

Compared to the cooking BMW 850i M-Sport (which has the same 4.4-litre V8 by the way), the M8 and M8 GranCoupe feature unique flourishes like twin-spar door mirrors, a carbon-fibre roof, flared front wheel arches with M vents (with ‘M8’ on them), an M8 rear diffuser replete with a unique twin-twin exhaust pipes with chrome finishers. The car also rides on 20-inch twin-colour alloys with staggered widths. 

The interior of the M8 & M8 GranCoupe (we paraphrase but it’s described as the ‘confluence of luxury and performance’) comes with full Merino leather upholstery, M Sports seats with illuminated M8 logos in the headrests, replete with letter on the dashboard and door cards. There’s also a unique gear-lever and a red starter button (because it’s a performance car, obviously). You’ll also find the BMW Live Cockpit Professional system front and centre, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster ahead of the driver, accompanied by a high-resolution 10.25-inch touchscreen display in the centre, as well as a full-colour heads-up display projected onto the windscreen. 

You’ll also find soft-closing doors on both M8s as well as an electric tailgate, while you can also get the car with a Digital Key if you have a supported smartphone from Samsung. 

The BMW M8 and M8 GranCoupe also offer quite a bit in the way of active safety: Both cars are equipped as standard with the BMW Personal CoPilot system which bundles in Driving Assistant Professional & Parking Assistant Plus, offering lane-keep assist, side-collision protection, lane-charge warning, cross-traffic alert, reversing assistant, and other little helpful features. 

The BMW M8 Coupe and BMW M8 GranCoupe are officially available in Malaysia priced from RM1,452,960 and RM1,455,145 respectively, both on-the-road without insurance and with an SST exemption (50% reduction, as these cars are both fully-imported). For the money you also get a 5-year/unlimited mileage warranty, as well as free service throughout the same period. 

Befitting a flagship, the new M8 and M8 GranCoupe can be had in as many as 7-colours, while the BMW Individual suite of customisation options also remains open for engagement and a sense of individuality. 

If neither of these cars really tickle your fancy, owing to their nature as slinky-roofed style-focused machines, perhaps the BMW X3M Competition and X4M Competition might be more your speed. Launched on the same day, the two new compact M ‘Sports Activity Vehicles; may be more your speed. 

But be sure to check out @MsianMotoring for more updates as they come. 

GALLERY: BMW M8 COUPE & BMW M8 GRANCOUPE MAKE DEBUT AT M TOWN

GALLERY: 2020 BMW M8 COUPE

GALLERY: 2020 BMW M8 GRAN COUPE

2020 Perodua Myvi – ASA 2.0 On More Variants, Now From RM42k

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The Malaysian automotive darling that is the Perodua Myvi has received a mild update for 2020, bringing it up to par with its siblings in terms of safety and bumping it a little further in terms of desirability. With an average of 100,000 units sold per-year since its introduction, the Perodua Myvi has long held the title of being Malaysia’s most favoured ride – and now with the 2020 updates, it’s set to retain that honour for a little while longer.

Perodua has updated the Myvi with Advanced Safety Assist 2.0, which debuted first with the flagship Aruz SUV before trickling down into the 2019 Perodua Axia and the 2020 Perodua Bezza. ASA (1.0) first came about when the 3rd generation Myvi was launched back in 2017, and consisted of Pre-Collision Warning & Pre-Collision Braking (up to 30km/h), Front Departure Alert, and Pedal Misoperation Control. With ASA 2.0, the latter two functions remain, but the pre-collision warning & braking are now effective at speeds of up to 100km/h and 80km/h respectively; Additionally, ASA 2.0 now tacks on Pedestrian Detection, at speeds of up to 50km/h.

Also new for 2020 is the ‘Electric Blue’ hue, as seen here, which is available across the range. The favourite ‘Granite Grey’ has now also been made available on all but the 1.3G variants too, allowing more choice for Perodua’s customers

There are no mechanical changes to report with the 2020 Perodua Myvi, which means there’s still an option between a 1.3-litre VVT engine and a 1.5-litre VVT engine, putting out 94hp/121Nm and 102hp/136Nm respectively, mated to a 4-speed automatic on all but the base 1.3G, which gets the option of a 5-speed manual as well.

Speaking of which, the range has been updated a bit here too. The new lineup now reflects the optional ASA 2.0 on the 1.3X variants, as well as its standard fitment on the 1.5H and 1.5AV.

Variant Pricing (With Changes, No SST)
2020 Perodua Myvi 1.3G (MT) RM41,292 (unchanged)
2020 Perodua Myvi 1.3G (AT) RM43,029 (unchanged)
2020 Perodua Myvi 1.3X (AT) RM44,959 (unchanged)
2020 Perodua Myvi 1.3X (AT), With ASA 2.0 RM46,959 (new variant)
2020 Perodua Myvi 1.5H (AT), With ASA 2.0 RM50,530 (+RM2,000)
2020 Perodua Myvi 1.5AV (AT), With ASA 2.0 RM52,697 (+500)

“With the inclusion of ASA 2.0, the Perodua Myvi takes advanced safety to a whole new level at this price point, and it’s nw more widely available within the lineup. The latest Myvi carries on the Perodua tradition of bringing advanced safety technology to the people, by making it more affordable and accessible to all.” – Dato’ Zainal Abidin Ahmad, President and Chief Executive Officer, Perodua

The updated 2020 Perodua Myvi is available in showrooms nationwide, with order books open today.

2020 PERODUA MYVI – GALLERY

2020 PROTON Saga Anniversary Edition – Only 1,100 Units, RM39,300

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National automotive flagbearer PROTON has today marked the 35th birthday of their inaugural Saga, the model that started it all, with a commemorative limited edition version of its compact saloon. With a production run of just 1,100 units, the 35th anniversary model will surely be a hot commodity – especially since its RM39,300 price means it asks no more than the model upon which it’s based.

On that subject, there are no major mechanical or specification changes, aside from the aesthetics. So under the bonnet still lies a 1.3L VVT engine producing 95PS and 120Nm, sending power to the front wheels via a Hyundai 4AT transmission. There are still things like electronic stability control, electronic brake distribution with brake assist, anti-lock brakes, hill-hold assist, and two airbags, as well as the LED daytime running lights that came as part of the facelift last year. The interior specification remains the same too – touchscreen infotainment unit, a smarter-designed meter cluster, and plusher fabrics used for the headlining and seat upholstery.

Now, onto the special bits. The 35th anniversary Saga marries a unique black paintjob with yellow accents, namely on the upper grille, the rear bumper garnish, and the wing mirrors. Not to be overlooked are the alloys – while they’re the same 15-inch units as before, they’ve now been given a matte-grey finish with a high-gloss silver lip, making them stand out quite a bit (and no doubt giving current owners ideas).

Inside, the air-conditioning surrounds on either side are done in gloss black, while the vent sliders are finished in the same matching yellow hue. Not to end there, the same colour is applied to the meter cluster surrounds, as well as to the little ‘tray’ that sits beneath the ‘PROTON’ script in the centre stack.

Unfortunately however, the snazzy bodykit you see here (door visors, front lip & side skirts) are an option, along with some new items like a boot tray, bonnet NVH insulator (called ‘NVH Guard’), and boot NVH insulator (also called ‘NVH Guard’). For the time being, these items can be bundled together on the Anniversary Edition or any facelifted PROTON Saga for RM2,035 – which represents a major savings given that individually-optioned they’d come up to RM2,350.

PROTON also took the opportunity to announce that the new Saga Anniversary Edition will come fitted with an N95-grade cabin air filter, which will now be offered on all new PROTON cars and be available for retrofitment on existing models. Retailing at RM59, these N95 filters will come in very handy to filter out smoke particulates, certain bacteria, and other harmful elements in the air. And between now and the 9th of October 2020, the N95 filter retrofit will be offered at a promotional price of just under RM52.

The Saga is an important model for PROTON, being the entry-level model into the lineup. Of the cars that were introduced through the course of 2019, the Saga was given the most attention by DRB-Hicom & Geely in its refresh. The new PROTON team made major upgrades to the Saga’s refinement, poise, and even its driving characteristics, enhancing a car that has was always impressive at its core but disappointed in the details.

With a more refined finish than ever before, plus the added emphasis by PROTON to keep customers excited and engaged, we’ve no doubt that there are many, many chapters to go in the story of the PROTON Saga.

What’s your Saga story? Let us know in the comments below!

2020 Perodua Myvi S-Edition Lands In Brunei?

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GHK Motors Sdn. Bhd., the sole authorised distributor of Perodua vehicles in the nation of Brunei, has launched the all-new Perodua Myvi at its showroom in Bandar Seri Begawan today via digital soft-launch, in keeping with COVID-19 preventative measures in place in Brunei to minimise social gatherings.

The soft-launching was to mark the official introduction of the all-new Perodua Myvi there, available as a 1.3G variant. However, there was the added surprise of the Perodua Myvi S-Edition, which comes equipped with a bodykit.

2020 Perodua Myvi S-Edition, Brunei

As far as we can tell, the bodykit is designed to look like what was first seen on the Perodua Myvi GT concept that debuted to the public at the 2018 Kuala Lumpur International Motorshow, which has since sparked heavy speculation that the Sg. Choh company may be looking to introduce hotter variants of its popular Myvi in the future.

Very few photos of the Perodua Myvi S-Edition have surfaced, but it seems to us that the changes are purely cosmetic, marrying a bodykit and some black-painted alloys to an otherwise standard Myvi. We are certain that it is not the 1.5AV as it lacks the ASA camera module on the windscreen – we have strong reason to believe that it is based on the Perodua Myvi 1.3G, the standard model that’s been greenlit for sale there.

A video has surfaced showing that the interior matches that of the 1.3G, with fabric seats, a basic audio headunit, and a steering wheel without multifunction controls. We expect to see no changes to the mechanicals either.

We have contacted Perodua to ask for comment on the launch of the Perodua Myvi S-Edition in Brunei.

2020 Perodua Myvi S-Edition, Brunei

*This is a developing story, which will be updated with further information as it becomes available.

  • 2020 Perodua Myvi S-Edition, Brunei
  • 2020 Perodua Myvi S-Edition, Brunei
  • 2020 Perodua Myvi S-Edition, Brunei
  • 2018 Perodua Myvi GT Concept – KLIMS’18
  • 2018 Perodua Myvi GT Concept – KLIMS’18
  • 2018 Perodua Myvi GT Concept – KLIMS’18
  • 2018 Perodua Myvi GT Concept – KLIMS’18

2020 Range Rover Evoque – 2 Variants, 2 Power Outputs, From RM427k

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Sime Darby, the official distributor of Land Rover vehicles in Malaysia, has today launched the all-new 2nd-generation Range Rover Evoque to much fanfare, marking the reintroduction of the incredibly successful ‘baby-Rangie’ to the lineup. Since it was introduced internationally in late 2018, the new Range Rover Evoque has won much acclaim from critics and buyers across the globe, and it is set to continue that trend here.

“The Range Rover Evoque has been a fundamental driver in Jaguar Land Rover’s global success. Since it first rolled off the Halewood production line, we have exported 80 per cent of all we have made. Our commitment to UK production remains firm and the new Evoque benefits from a £1bn investment. With this, we are introducing new technology and Range Rover refinement into the luxury compact SUV segment that the original model created.”

– Dr. Ralf Speth, Chief Executive Officer, Jaguar-Land Rover

Sitting on an all-new platform, the new Range Rover Evoque carries on the aesthetics first seen by the Velar. As such the headlights & taillights, which are full-LEDs, are now slimmer & wider than before. They now also feature scrolling indicators like the Velar, though the headlights now have an adaptive beam technology that ensure that full-beam can be used more often without dazzling other road users. The doors also feature retractable door handles like the Velar, which now sit flush against the door panels until the car is unlocked or if they are ‘made’ to appear.

The Evoque’s new platform features a longer & wider wheelbase than before, and dimensions have grown noticeably. At 4371mm long, 1966mm wide, and 1649mm tall, the Evoque is now larger than the outgoing model in every measurable way, which means that interior space has benefitted massively. For starters, the boot now features 591L of cargo room with the rear seats up, expandable to 1,383L with the seats folded, all of which is accessible via the all-electric one-piece tailgate.

And when you step inside, you discover that the new Evoque has more room for passengers too, with rear seat occupants entitled to more leg- and head-room than the previous model could have even dreamed of.

But the real kicker is up front, where the old Evoque is left for dead by the new kid on the block. The highlight of the cabin is no doubt the screens – innovatively called TouchPro Duo, the system comprises of two glass-fronted 10-inch infotainment screens placed atop each other, with the upper half dedicated to media functions while the lower one handles HVAC controls, TerrainResponse 2 (standard on the new Evoque) and so on. These screens work in tandem with the 12.3-inch digital drivers display that sits ahead of the driver, which clearly & elegantly display all the necessary driving information.

There’s actually one more screen that we have to talk about: Dubbed ClearSight Rear View, the centre rear-view mirror can now be turned into a screen (standard on R-Dynamic only) which activates a camera mounted above the car allowing for totally clear, unobstructed views rearward with a 50-degree viewing angle. This effectively overcomes the rather compromised rear view from within the cabin (owing to the sloping roofline and narrow rear window) and means that even if your Evoque is full of people and stuff, you’ll still be able to see out.

That’s not all – ClearSight Ground View now offers a full 180-degree view of the road ahead, and even between the two front wheels, essentially ‘eliminating’ the blind-spot created by your bonnet. As such, Land Rover says that this will make navigating the Evoque through tight city streets, compact parking spaces, and rough off-road terrain that much easier (notice how they mentioned the off-roading part last?).

Regardless of on- or off-road, and irrespective of Evoque or Evoque R-Dynamic, power still comes from a 2.0-litre turbocharged Ingenium engine paired to an 8-speed automatic gearbox. Both cars feature a nifty little thing called Active Driveline Disconnect that de-couples the rear-wheels during day-to-day driving to improve fuel economy, but is able to re-engage them almost instantly should the car demand extra traction. Outputs differ though: The base Evoque puts out 200PS and 320Nm, while the Evoque R-Dynamic offers 249PS and 365Nm. As such, the R-Dynamic is able to hit the century mark in just 7.5-seconds, while the base Evoque does the same a second slower at 8.5-seconds.

The R-Dynamic does add a few more bits and bobs too. While the standard car features things like Lane Keep Assist and Driver Drowsiness Alert, the R-Dynamic adds a full gamut of active safety kit like blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, full-speed Autonomous Emergency Braking, and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. This at least goes some way to soften the blow of the pricing, given that the compact-sized Evoque is priced against much larger rivals like the BMW X5 xDrive45e and the Volvo XC90 T8 Inscription Plus despite being the size of a BMW X3 or a Volvo XC60.

The Range Rover Evoque range starts at RM426,828 for the base model without SST, while the Range Rover Evoque R-Dynamic with its more comprehensive kit list and punchier engine goes for RM475,398 without SST. All new Evoques will be sold with a 5-year/150,000km warranty, a 5-year/65,000km free service package, as well as 3-years roadside assistance. The new Range Rover Evoque is available for viewing from today at Land Rover dealerships across the country.

For the best deals on a new Range Rover, check out our Facebook page where you can fill in your details and get the best deal & buying experience on a new Range Rover Evoque (or any car for that matter).

2020 Toyota RAV4 Revealed – 2.0 and 2.5, From RM196k

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UMW Toyota Malaysia has today unveiled their latest entrant into the burgeoning SUV space, in the form of the all-new Toyota RAV4. The RAV4 is an important nameplate not just for Toyota but for the crossover segment as a whole, as it’s widely credited for establishing the urban-focused high-riding utility vehicle that everyone so desperately wants today. And in this latest generation, Toyota has aimed to move forward with the sort of confidence that only they could have with the RAV4 brand, and they certainly have done.

The new RAV4 is underpinned by Toyota’s New Global Architecture or TNGA, which offers better packaging, more efficient use of material, and overall weight savings while also improving rigidity. TNGA also means that the new RAV4 can make full use of Toyota’s newest engines – the RAV4 is available with DynamicForce petrol engines in both 2.0-litre and 2.4-litre displacements, with a CVT automatic for the former and an 8-speed torque-converter automatic for the latter. Both are exclusively front-wheel drive.

While the engines offer some choice, the rest of the RAV4 packaging locally does not. Both cars are identically equipped: Both run on 18-inch alloy wheels, both cars get 6 exterior colour options, they feature LED headlights, the cabin trim are identical… We’re not sure what UMW Toyota is getting at here, but we’re sure that when we do get to ask them what was going through their minds, we’ll get a satisfactory answer.

What we certainly appreciate with the new RAV4 is the comprehensive list of safety features. The new SUV arrives with Toyota Safety Suite as standard, which comprises of adaptive cruise control, collision warning, lane departure warning with lane-keep assist, as well as an automatic high-beam function. This puts the RAV4 on par with segment stalwarts like the Honda CR-V and the PROTON X70; However, the RAV4 is a fully-imported model, which brings about its own issues that we’ll get to later.

Inside, we finally get to see Toyota getting a little more playful after they admitted to playing it safe for far too long. Major touchpoints within the cabin benefit from soft-touch materials to elevate the sensory experience, while key features such as a semi-digital instrument cluster, large infotainment screen with Apple & Android smartphone mirroring, Qi wireless charging, as well as an electrically-adjustable driver’s seat with memory functionality means that you’re certainly given a premium feel. There’s also dual-zone climate control & front-seat ventilation, which again puts it on par with the PROTON X70.

There’s masses of space for people and luggage alike: Toyota boasts class-leading bootspace, thanks to packaging ingenuity. A feature that we like alot is the reversible boot floor, that allows you to reverse the side used to floor the boot from either a carpeted surface (good for luggage bags & general day-to-day flotsam) to a waterproof, hard-wearing plastic surface that’s more suited to dirtier, or wet items. Further, the boot floor can be adjusted from a high position (offering a lip-less cargo space) to a lower position that can better accommodate taller items. Of course, the rear seats can also be folded 60:40 or completely flat, should you find yourself in IKEA over the weekend.

The new Toyota RAV4 will be available in showrooms this week, with prices starting at RM196,436 for the 2.0-litre model, and topping out at RM215,664.50 for the 2.5-litre model. All cars will benefit from a 5-year warranty as well as manufacturer-backed servicing & aftersales.