Dato’ Samson Anand George, Group Chief Executive Officer of Automotive Group, Naza Corporation Holdings Sdn Bhd was recently conferred the Ordre National du Mérite by the French government, underlining his contributions towards the French nation through the automotive industry. The Ambassador of France to Malaysia, Frédéric Laplanche, conferred the distinguished award to Dato’ Samson at a conferment ceremony held at the Residence of France, Kuala Lumpur.
A French order established by Napoléon Bonaparte in 1802 and restored by decree in 1963 by President Charles de Gaulle, l’Ordre National du Mérite (the National Order of Merit) is awarded by the President of the French Republic and seeks to reward distinguished men and women for their civil or military achievements.
Dato’ Samson (above, right) said of the award, “I am truly humbled and honoured to be conferred the Ordre National du Mérite, a recognition by the government of the French Republic. Our association with France began with the Peugeot 206 CKD project in 2006 and this partnership has since culminated in a Joint Venture that both NAZA Group and Groupe PSA have forged to make Naza Automotive Manufacturing (NAM) in Gurun, Kedah its ASEAN manufacturing hub.”
“We look forward to enhancing business opportunities and greater collaboration with French companies in the automotive industry,” he added.
Naza Euro Motors Sdn Bhd, the sole distributor for DS Cars in Malaysia has officially launched the new DS Store Petaling Jaya, marking the first of its kind in Malaysia and Southeast Asia. The flagship outlet was inaugurated in the presence of Yves Bonnefont, CEO of DS Automobiles and Dato’ Samson Anand George, Group CEO, Automotive Group, Naza Corporation Holdings.
Weaving the excellence of French savoir-faire in a luxurious and modern space, the DS Store Petaling Jaya emphasises on the refined world of DS Automobiles, replete with its distinguished Corporate Identity in mind and French know-how in the premium segment. The design concept is based on DS Automobiles’ signature design philosophy for its outlets in key global markets, taking inspiration from the DS Spirit of Avant-garde as well as innovation and state-of-the-art features, only available in a DS vehicle.
The warm black, carmine red and champagne colours iconic to the DS brand adorns its walls and floors of the store, exuding a designer ambiance with great precision and creativity. At the centre of it all is the première appearance of the DS 7 CROSSBACK, which captivated guests and business partners alike at the event. With a total floor space of 3,230 sq ft, the new DS Store Petaling Jaya has the capacity to display three cars at any one time and offers 3S facilities for the convenience of DS owners. The outlet will serve as a one-stop centralised hub for DS owners and prospective customers to experience the very best of what DS Automobiles has to offer.
Dato’ Samson Anand George, Group CEO, Automotive Group, Naza Corporation Holdings said, “The new DS Store Petaling Jaya is the first to be introduced in Malaysia and in Southeast Asia. It is designed to provide premium service and the best in customer experience. The DS Store is about inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the values of the DS brand and gives visitors sophistication at their fingertips to configure, personalise and view their new DS.”
“With DS Automobiles’ fervent support and vision to continue accelerating DS brand development in Malaysia, we plan to invest RM5 million for marketing, operations and such in 2019, on top of the initial investment of RM2 million to set up the flagship store,” added Dato’ Samson. Present to officiate the new DS Store launch was Yves Bonnefont, CEO of DS Automobiles, who commented, “Each DS Store embodies DS Automobiles universe and is inspired by parisian luxury boutiques with its very own atmosphere. It is designed to place the customer at the centre of the brand experience.”
DS Automobiles is a world-renowned French premium brand known for its exclusive and exceptional customer experience through outstanding products and exacting standards of service that are distinctively theirs. The new DS Store Petaling Jaya will offer a new approach to customer experience for French know-how and high-end automotive products. A dedicated Customer Lounge welcomes discerning customers to configure, personalise and purchase their finest DS in-store, guided by a DS Advisor. The car exhibition area gives pride of place to a flagship model from the DS collection. Also on display is a large collection of DS lifestyle products inspired by DS Automobiles’ distinctive brand values of French expertise in opulence, refinement, personalisation and advanced technology.
A virtual reality experience at the VR Zone adapts the advanced technology of DS Virtual Vision, giving visitors a peek into the latest DS models where they can virtually view, explore, customise and interact with the cars in an almost realistic manner.
DS Automobiles currently has 450 DS Stores worldwide and continues to pique the interest of premium car enthusiasts globally.
Naza Motor Trading (NW Motors), a subsidiary of the Naza Group and Malaysia’s largest vehicle importer, has announced an all weekend-long ‘Autoberfest’ event this 6th and 7th October 2018 at the Naza Automall Petaling Jaya where more than 300 new arrivals of various makes and models offered at lowest prices await!
“Browse and test drive top-grade automobiles from brands such as Toyota, Nissan, Lexus, MINI, Mercedes-Benz and many more from MPVs to sedans that will fulfill every car owner’s dream. Also valid this weekend only, customers will be offered a limited-time interest rate from as low as 2.28% from Naza Automall’s exclusive banking partner, Maybank” – NW Sales.
For that added peace of mind while parents seek out their dream car at the Naza Automall, there will be a dedicated Kids Corner to keep children preoccupied and entertained. NW Motors is offering their lowest prices ever – and available only at ‘Autoberfest’! Head to Naza Automall Petaling Jaya this weekend for a splendid opportunity to drive home a new car.
Naza Automall Petaling Jaya is open daily from 9am to 7pm. For customer enquiries call 03-7953 2888 during business hours.
The Naza Group announced it will contribute RM1,000 towards Tabung Harapan Malaysia for every car sold by the Group, from 1st June to 31st August 2018. The Naza Group is an importer and distributor for a diverse range of international automotive brands such as Ferrari, Maserati, Mercedes-Benz, Peugeot, Citroën, DS and Kia in Malaysia.
SM Nasarudin SM Nasimuddin, Group Executive Chairman and CEO, Naza Corporation Holdings Sdn Bhd said, “The Naza Group is proud to play its part by contributing to Tabung Harapan Malaysia as a responsible and patriotic corporate citizen. Our contribution is also our way of thanking the Government of Malaysia for the stable economic and political landscape and most of all for the 3-month tax holiday which has spurred sales of cars to achieve record levels this year.”
“As a homegrown company, it is our obligation and responsibility to assist wherever possible for the betterment of our beloved nation, especially as we soon celebrate our 61st anniversary of Merdeka and 55th Malaysia Day,” added SM Nasarudin.
I’ve not slept very well since this drive. I’m still rather perplexed as to how it was possible to create something with so much power and yet dial in so much user-friendliness as well. I’m referring of course to the Ferrari GTC4 Lusso T, which Piston.my reviewed recently. Here’s the day we’d not soon forget…
Boasting 448kW (610bhp) and 760Nm from a twin-turbocharged 3.9-litre V8 mated to a 7-Speed F1-DCT gearbox, the GTC4 Lusso T also benefits from 4-wheel steering and an E-Diff. All this culminates to enable the GTC4 Lusso T to accelerate from 0 to 100kmh in less time than it took you to read this sentence; 3.5sec to be exact. Drive modes are of course selectable via the manettino on the super-mega-multi-function-steering-wheel, which also houses the turn-signal buttons, starter button, suspension settings and even the friggin’ wipers.
Pedal to the floor, and with enough road, in 11-seconds from zero it’ll hit 200kmh, and it will see the bright side of 320kmh flat-out before giving up the ghost, while a slew of active safety systems constantly monitor every rotation of the wheel to ensure the intended path of travel remains exactly that. You can find more of the GTC4 Lusso T’s specifications here.
The Indescribables….
So now you need to forget all that techno babble above, because I really do believe that that’s not what the GTC4 Lusso T is all about. Sure it may look, feel and even sound like a super-sports car, and from most of the reviews I’ve read emanating from the USA and Europe, many of my counterparts there seem to think it is, but I don’t. Dare I say it? The GTC4 Lusso T is not really a supercar, it’s a gentleman’s super-cruiser.
Before the pitchforks and lit torches arrive en masse, accompanied by the Tifosi braying for blood though, let me explain. First-off, it’s a Ferrari, so it’s a given that it has – absolutely has – to be fireballs-out-the-flanks type powerful, and don’t get me wrong, it is. It’s just that in the GTC4 Lusso T – and this despite all the aforementioned figures I regurgitated on you three paragraphs up – is exceptionally, and I mean exceptionally, easy to drive.
It came to a point (when I was alone in the car) where I intentionally tried to get it to kill me and it outright refused. Perhaps it was able to cotton-on to my juvenile nefariousness, and decided to show me just who was smarter of the two. It won. As weird as it sounds, I was actually a bit disappointed that the car didn’t try to kill me; my own cars try to ‘suicide’ my ass all the time…
No, the GTC4 LT is actually docile; fast as hell, but docile. One giveaway could very well be the fact that it has two rear seats. Yes, it’s now possible to ferry 3 of your friends around in a Ferrari, and not just 1. However, now that that’s possible, one must take into consideration that those ‘friends’ may very well be – and will likely be – replaced by ‘family’ at some point or other.
Image from http://www.topcarrating.com/
That’s a whole new ball-game isn’t it? Rhetorical question. Of course it is. If you’re ferrying your wife in front and your 2 kids at the back, it’s 100% guaranteed that you will not be driving the same way as you would be with friends. Think about it; where’s the fun in a family-drive if half the time you’re going to have to stop to clean puke off the floorboards, seats and the back of your neck? Sorry, I needlessly over-emphasized that. My articles should come with a warning sometimes, graphic imagery ahead…
So, has Ferrari created the world’s first family station-wagon supercar? Okay, okay, shooting-brake. Happy? Tomatoes, tomatoes. Sure everyone knows they made a one-off Ferrari 456GT Wagon for the Sultan of Brunei a while back, so have they made one for the masses now? I use that ‘masses’ term lightly of course, seeing as how the GTC4 Lusso T costs more than most bungalows in really nice neighbourhoods. Well, I think they have.
Don’t get me wrong, it’s still every bit a Ferrari from fore to aft, top to toe, inside and out. It still imparts an extremely rewarding and spirited drive when (WARNING: Graphic Imagery Ahead!)you’re alone and unconcerned about copious amounts of semi-digested sustenance unexpectedly adorning the interior of your car courtesy of passengers. Attack any road, and it’s guaranteed that the GTC4 Lusso T will be able to handle anything you throw its way, with the kind of ease and panache that almost seems to taunt you to push harder. If cars could talk, this one would be saying “Is that all ya got?”…. a lot.
If you really feel the need to know more about the 20-inch alloys, 46:54 F&R weight distribution and CS brake discs that are bigger than most cars’ wheels and tyres combined, feel free to click here. But, come on, does it really matter? I didn’t think so. – Chris Wee.
The 2018 Maserati Ghibli, the marque’s best-selling vehicle in its history is now available to the Malaysian market at Naza Italia, the official importer and distributor for Maserati. The 2018 Maserati Ghibli comes with subtle restyling and a rich array of hi-tech features. Two distinctive trims are included in the new model range, each using their own exclusive voice to bring out the luxurious elegance and race-bred performance unique to Maserati.
Datuk Wira Hj SM Faisal Tan Sri SM Nasimuddin, Naza World Group Executive Chairman, said, “After four years of remarkable success in the international and local markets, the Ghibli’s exterior has been respectfully restyled to emphasize both its elegance and its sportiness – the pillars of Maserati signature personality. Faithful to its DNA, the new Ghibli range offers unmistakable class, top-quality performance and a stylish yet comfortable driving experience. Malaysian Maserati aficionados are bound to be excited with this latest Maserati offering.”
The new Ghibli which made its debut in the 2017 Frankfurt Motorshow shares its core architecture – chassis, suspension layout, V6 engines and eight-speed ZF automatic transmission with the flagship Maserati Quattroporte but is 293 mm shorter and 50 kg lighter.
The car’s perfect weight distribution, front double-wishbone/rear multi-link suspension and standard Limited-Slip Differential (LSD), guarantee the razor-sharp road handling for which Maserati models are famed. The five-star Euro NCAP safety rating and integrated Advanced Driving Assistance Systems ensure total peace of mind for both driver and passengers.
The new trim strategy enriches the experience with two distinctive trims – GranLusso and GranSport. Both are available as an upgrade of the all-powerful versions – Ghibli 350 Hp and Ghibli S 430Hp.
Ghibli GranLusso and GranSport are both immediately recognisable thanks to their unique exterior features and exclusive interiors. The exterior design stands out for its coupe-like attitude as well as for several unique features: the distinctive C-pillar bearing the iconic Saetta logo, the frameless doors, the pronounced grille that resembles iconic Maserati cars of the ‘50s, and the range-standard quadruple chromium-plated exhaust pipes.
The addition of the Ghibli GranLusso and GranSport to the range drove the Design Centre in Turin to give each trim a clear identity, primarily by restyling the front and rear bumpers. While visually discreet, this aerodynamically optimised changes accentuate the original’s sporty yet luxurious style.
The aerodynamic efficiency of the restyled Ghibli has improved by 7%, reducing the drag coefficient to 0.29 from 0.31 in 2017.
All petrol versions of the Ghibli were manufactured by Ferrari in Maranello and feature the acclaimed Euro 6 homologated Twin Turbo 3.0-litre V6 engine, in conjunction with a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission.
The top-range Ghibli S version now delivers 430 hp and 580 Nm peak torque, 20 Hp and 30 Nm more than the 2017 car. The increased power output gives the Maserati sports sedan a top speed of 286 km/h and better acceleration. The new Ghibli S accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds.
Ghibli and Quattroporte are the first Maserati models to adopt the Integrated Vehicle Control (IVC) system by Bosch, which helps to prevent (rather than simply correct) vehicle instability, providing enhanced active safety, improved driving dynamics and an even more thrilling performance. A new ADAS package is optionally available in the restyled Ghibli. In addition to the existing features, it includes functions like Highway Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist and Traffic Sign Recognition.
Electric Power Steering (EPS) is another first for Maserati. This improves the car’s handling and comfort, better supports the driving modes and enables the newly-introduced active functions of the Advanced Driving Assistance Systems (ADAS), while retaining the classically Maserati razor-sharp steering feel.
GranLusso & GranSport: two distinct souls of Ghibli
The baseline Ghibli and the new Ghibli GranLusso share the same design features while the Ghibli GranSport boasts a subtly different exterior that underlines its sportier character.
The front bumper incorporates a larger grille with a ‘sharknose’ profile and integrated chrome bars. This concave grille is inspired by the Alfieri Concept and adds a three-dimensional effect to the car’s frontal aspect.
The air duct has also been restyled for 2018 Ghibli. Wide open and more linear on the Ghibli and Ghibli GranLusso, it features a sportier layout on the Ghibli GranSport with two wings virtually supporting the grille, separating the central splitter from the side air ducts. This design visually accentuates the width of the car, conveying an extra sense of stability from the front.
The headlights have maintained the same contour. The full Ghibli model range is equipped with the all new, Adaptive full LED headlights developed in collaboration with Magneti Marelli Automotive Lighting, while the baseline model uses Bi-Xenon technology.
The new Ghibli GranLusso reinterprets the concept of luxury in a sports sedan by enhancing the exterior finish and improving on-board comfort for both driver and passengers. This most elegant expression of the Ghibli uses exclusive materials and special features in the finest tradition of Italian craftsmanship. Externally, it is distinguished by its Adaptive full LED headlights, chrome inserts on the front bumper, GranLusso badge at the base of the front wing, body-colour side skirts, silver brake calipers and 20” Urano Diamond alloy wheels.
The Ermenegildo Zegna Silk interior features patented mulberry silk inserts on the seats, doors panels, roof lining and ceiling light fixture. The tailored seat details and the label on the sun visors, complemented by a Ebano wood trim and Ebony wood-finished leather steering wheel, make this trim unique and exclusive, beautifully epitomising the GranLusso soul.
This uniquely luxurious trim includes Comfort seats with extensive 12-way power adjustment as standard, as well as power-adjustable steering wheel and foot pedals, parking sensors and new Soft Close Doors.
The Ghibli GranSport takes its inspiration from the legendary racing heritage of Maserati. This specific trim was conceived to meet the needs of customers seeking a sportier expression of a high-end sedan in the segment.
Externally, the GranSport features Adaptive full LED headlights and is also recognisable for the Black Piano inserts on the front bumper, the GranSport badge on the front wing, body-colour side skirts, blue inserts on all Trident and Saetta logos, red brake calipers and, last but not least, the 21” Titano Anthracite alloy wheels.
The Sport 12-way power full leather seats and Sport steering wheel create an inspiring mix for the driving aficionado. The interior of the Ghibli GranSport also features standard gearshift paddles and Inox sport foot pedals. The Ghibli and Ghibli GranSport can be further customised with an Exterior Carbon Package for an even more emphatic message
about Ghibli’s racing heritage. It covers the external door mirrors, B- and C-pillar covers and door handles on the base trim, as well as the front splitter and rear spoiler on the GranSport.
The Ghibli enters the Malaysian market at the starting price of RM 618,800.00 (inclusive of local taxes and duties) for the standard model while the GranLusso and the GranSport are priced at RM 668,800.00. All three models include 5 years Standard Warranty coverage with no mileage restriction plus a Free maintenance program of 5 years/ 100,000 km whichever comes first (Inclusive of *Maserati Premium Service Plus of 3 Years /60,000KM).
The Ghibli S enters the Malaysian market at the starting price of RM 718,800.00 (inclusive of local taxes and duties) for the standard model while the GranLusso is priced at RM 768,800.00 and the GranSport at RM 768,800.00. All three models include 5 years Standard Warranty coverage with no mileage restriction plus a Free maintenance program of 5 years/ 100,000 km whichever comes first (Inclusive of *Maserati Premium Service Plus of 3 Years /60,000KM).
The public is invited to head over to Naza Italia’s showroom in Petaling Jaya to view and test drive the Ghibli range and speak with Naza Italia’s sales team in greater detail about Maserati’s newest offering.
