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BMW Malaysia Launches New BMW X7 xDrive40i M Sport

BMW Malaysia has introduced the New BMW X7 xDrive40i M Sport, an enhanced version of its powerful and luxurious Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV). This model complements the previously unveiled Pure Excellence variant and will be assembled at the BMW Assembly Plant in Kulim, expanding the premium automaker’s assembly lineup in Malaysia.

The new BMW X7 xDrive40i M Sport boasts various sports-oriented enhancements, including a new M Specific front and rear design thanks to the M Aerodynamics Package. It features door entry sills inscribed with the iconic M logo, emphasizing its sporty character. The SAV’s visual highlights include the BMW Iconic Glow kidney grille illuminated by LED fiber optics and new 22-inch M Sport light alloy wheels with a double-spoke design.

Inside, it showcases the ‘Fineline Black’ fine wood trim with high-gloss metal accents and an M leather steering wheel. It features BMW Individual extended Merino leather upholstery in Black or Tartufo. The SAV’s driving assistance package includes the Driving Assistant Professional with features such as Distance Control with Stop & Go and Steering and Lane Control Assistants, enabling Level 2 Autonomous Driving capabilities for enhanced safety and comfort.

It is powered by a six-cylinder mild hybrid engine with 380hp and 540Nm of torque. Equipped with BMW xDrive all-wheel drive and an 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission, the SAV can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.8 seconds. It features mild-hybrid technology with a 48-volt starter generator for improved efficiency and dynamics.

In addition to the existing Mineral White Metallic and Black Sapphire Metallic colour options, the variant-exclusive M Brooklyn Grey Metallic will be available.

BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia offers the Straight Line Financing Plan, enabling ownership of the new BMW X7 xDrive40i M Sport with monthly installment plans starting from RM8,322.00 (based on estimates of an 80% loan on a seven-year tenure).

Owners of the BMW X7 xDrive40i M Sport will receive the complete BMW Group Malaysia Premium Ownership experience, which includes a 5-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty with a free scheduled service programme, BMW Roadside Assistance and Accident Hotline, and BMW Service Online.

The retail pricing for the BMW X7 xDrive40i M Sport with a 5-Year Extended Warranty and Service Package, along with Sales and Service Tax (on the road, without insurance), is RM 718,800.00.

Toyota Unveils IMV 0 Concept: A Versatile Blank Canvas

Toyota has introduced the IMV 0 concept, a vehicle designed to serve as a versatile and adaptable platform for customers to customise according to their specific needs. While detailed information about the IMV 0’s powertrain remains undisclosed, Toyota has provided insights into its dimensions and showcased various renderings of potential configurations.

The IMV 0 concept, at its base form, measures 208.7 inches in length, 70.3 inches in width, and 68.5 inches in height. It boasts a wheelbase of 121.5 inches, approximately the same as the full-size Toyota Sequoia SUV.

Toyota is set to present the IMV 0 concept at the Tokyo auto show, although it remains uncertain whether only the base truck or physical versions of the various renderings will be exhibited.

The renderings depict a wide range of potential configurations for the IMV 0 concept. One representation showcases the vehicle transformed into a Red Cross rescue vehicle, equipped with an ambulance-like rear section. Other renderings depict the IMV 0 configured as a delivery vehicle carrying packages, a sport truck with vibrant accents, and a futuristic camper.

The IMV 0 concept also appears as a miniature food truck, likely appealing to small businesses seeking alternatives to refurbished school buses and similar options. One of the most striking renderings envisions the IMV 0 as a compact off-roader, complete with oversized tires, a robust front bumper featuring auxiliary lighting, a bed-mounted roof rack, and an additional cabin section, potentially for extra seating.

Toyota’s IMV 0 concept aims to provide a blank canvas for creative customisation and transformation, catering to diverse customer needs and applications. While specific powertrain details remain undisclosed, the vehicle’s adaptable design allows it to take on various roles, making it an intriguing platform for a wide range of purposes.

MBPG to Enforce Ban on House Front Parking from 2024

The Pasir Gudang City Council (MBPG) is set to enforce a ban on parking vehicles in front of houses starting from January 1, 2024. The decision, based on the Street, Drainage and Building Act 1974 of the MBPG, was reached during a special meeting of the local authority (PBT) held last Wednesday.

According to Berita Harian, Mayor Datuk Asman Shah Abd Rahman confirmed that the decision received unanimous support from all MBPG council members. To ensure awareness and education among the public, a period of notice issuance to those affected will be observed from now until December 31.

In early October, a notice from MBPG outlining the prohibition of parking vehicles in front of houses, specifically outside fences that obstruct public thoroughfares, gained widespread attention. On October 10, after a special meeting, Mayor Asman announced that enforcement would be carried out in phases to maintain public harmony.

Complaints related to vehicles parked in front of houses obstructing passageways prompted this decision, with MBPG receiving 349 such complaints from the beginning of the year until last month. To address this issue, MBPG will conduct an investigation by engaging with complainants and vehicle owners.

Vehicle owners will be issued notices, providing up to 21 days for corrective action. If no action is taken, fines ranging from RM100 to a maximum of RM2,000 will be imposed for repeat offences, though no immediate fines will be issued.

New Mercedes-Benz E-Class LWB Debuts In China

Mercedes-Benz has introduced the latest-generation E-Class Long Wheelbase (LWB) in China, delivering increased legroom and enhanced luxury in this popular premium sedan. The 2024 E-Class LWB will be available for purchase in China in the coming months and is scheduled to join the Mercedes-Benz India lineup in late 2024.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class LWB measures 5,092mm in length, 1,880mm in width, and 1,493mm in height, with a generous wheelbase of 3,094mm. It is 18mm longer and 20mm wider than its predecessor, with the most significant portion of the 18mm length increase attributable to the 15mm larger wheelbase.

The LWB body type, similar to the one unveiled in China, will also be made available to the Indian market, as it was with the previous-generation E-Class LWB. The extended wheelbase enhances rear legroom and knee space, while the cabin retains the same interior design and equipment as the standard model.

It also features air suspension and a rear-wheel steering system capable of turning the rear wheels up to 4.5 degrees.

Inside, the E-Class LWB closely mirrors the regular E-Class. The car showcased in China is offered in various configurations, each with unique feature sets, including power-reclining rear seats with an ottoman function. Some configurations come equipped with the “Superscreen,” a standard feature.

The Mercedes Superscreen configuration combines three integrated displays behind a single glass panel on the dashboard. The driver is presented with instrumentation on a 12.2-inch screen, while a 14.4-inch central infotainment display serves as the primary unit. A third screen is visible to the front passenger.

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class L is reported to be available with a 4-cylinder powertrain in two variations: the E270L with 201hp and the more potent E300L with 255hp. The lineup is expected to expand with additional options in the future.

Sales of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class LWB are set to commence in China in the coming months. Closer to home, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has just unveiled the all-new Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV, which is the latest addition to Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s luxury all-electric EQ portfolio.

Let’s not forget that BMW Malaysia took the leap and introduced the G28 BMW 330Li M Sport for the Malaysian market. Would Mercedes-Benz Malaysia take a card out of BMW’s strategy and offer something similar in Malaysia?

Porsche’s Electrified 911 Expected by Mid-2020s, Not in 2024

Porsche enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the electrification of the iconic 911 may need to exercise some patience. Despite years of speculation and anticipation, the hybrid version of Porsche’s beloved sports car will not make its debut until sometime in the mid-2020s.

Frank Moser, Vice President Model Lines 911 and 718, confirmed that Porsche is actively developing the next generation of the 911, known as the 992.2, and that it will include a “performance hybrid” variant. However, this electrified 911, eagerly awaited by fans, is not scheduled to launch before the middle of the decade.

The hybrid system for the 992.2 911 will not follow a plug-in design, instead relying on the engine to charge the battery and recuperating energy during braking. It is said to draw inspiration from Porsche’s 919 hybrid Le Mans race car.

Although it remains unclear whether all 992.2-generation 911 models will embrace hybrid technology, industry observers speculate that it will likely debut on a high-performance variant, such as the GT2 RS or Turbo S. In addition, reports suggest that a turbo-hybrid GT2 RS could potentially join the lineup in 2026.

There have also been unverified reports from Europe indicating that hybrid technology might be incorporated into a mid-range model, such as the GTS.

As Porsche’s last model to receive any form of electrification, the 911 is set to follow the brand’s lineup, where other models already offer hybrid or electric power. Porsche is focused on ensuring that the 911 hybrid doesn’t add excessive weight from its electrical components, according to Michael Steiner, Porsche’s board member for development.

JPJ Warns Drivers About Window Tinting Regulations

The Malaysian Road Transport Department (JPJ) has issued a stern warning to drivers who violate window tinting regulations, emphasising that offenders will face fines and the possibility of imprisonment.

JPJ has cited the Motor Vehicles (Prohibition of Certain Types of Glass) Rules 1991, which underwent an amendment four years ago. These updated rules now dictate that the visible light transmittance (VLT) of a vehicle’s front windscreen should be no less than 70%, and at least 50% for the front side windows.

As reported by FMT, motorists who contravene these regulations could be slapped with fines of up to RM2,000 or face imprisonment for up to six months for a first offence. Subsequent convictions may lead to heftier penalties, with fines of up to RM4,000 and imprisonment for up to 12 months.

It’s important to note that the regulations do not impose a limit on the VLT of a vehicle’s rear side windows and rear windscreen, as clarified by JPJ.

The window tinting restrictions serve the purpose of maintaining unobstructed driver visibility and ensuring road safety, according to Wong Shaw Voon, Chairman of the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (Miros).

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