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In a strategic move toward electrification, Honda is set to join the electric sports car race, as revealed by CEO Toshihiro Mibe during CES earlier this month. Honda showcased its commitment to EVs with two concept cars, offering a glimpse into the brand’s new design language and technological advancements. However, Mibe shared that behind the scenes, a battery-powered sports car is already in the production pipeline.

The upcoming electric sports car is positioned as a pivotal member of the 0 Series, a range of electric vehicles slated for release starting in 2026. While specific details about the production model remain undisclosed, Mibe assured that development is progressing steadily. The sports car aims to be the flagship model of the 0 Series, incorporating technical innovations focused on maximising interior space, reducing battery weight, and optimising overall efficiency – all while prioritising the “joy of driving” and driver engagement.

 

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Bermaz Auto has introduced the highly anticipated 2024 Mazda CX-5 facelift to the discerning Malaysian market. This latest iteration of the CX-5 combines performance, style, and advanced features, cementing Mazda’s reputation for delivering excellence in the automotive realm.

The facelifted 2024 CX-5 boasts a redesigned three-dimensional front fascia, including an updated grille and a more compact central air intake on the front bumper. Among the notable upgrades, the 2.0G 2WD Mid now includes advanced keyless entry. Additionally, models from 2.0G 2WD High and above are equipped with convenient shift paddles behind the steering wheel and signature LED headlamps.

The wheel sizes on the 2024 CX-5 range from 17-inch alloy wheels on the 2.0G 2WD Mid and High variants to larger 19-inch wheels on the 2.5G 2WD High, 2.2D 2WD High, and the 2.5T 4WD High versions.

In terms of interior features, the 2.5G 2WD High and above models introduce seat ventilation for the driver and front passenger. Additionally, this variant level incorporates a seven-inch TFT LCD multi-info instrument display, distinguishing it from the two 2.0G variants with a 4.6-inch display. The 2.0G 2WD Mid comes with a standard display, while the High variant is equipped with a multi-info display of the same size.

Seating variations include fabric, manually adjusted seats in the 2.0G 2WD Mid, while the 2.0G High and above upgrade to leather seats with a 10-way power adjustment for the driver, along with a two-position memory. The front passenger seat is six-way power-adjustable.

Infotainment features are consistent across all variants, offering an eight-inch capacitive touchscreen, Android Auto, wireless Apple CarPlay, six speakers, four USB ports, and a wireless device charger. The 2.0G 2WD High and above versions are enriched with a 360-degree camera system, while the base 2.0G 2WD Mid includes a reversing camera.

From the 2.0G 2WD High onwards, advanced driver assistance systems are included, featuring adaptive front lighting, high beam control, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, driver attention alert, smart city brake support, smart brake support, radar cruise control, and cruising and traffic support.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 facelift offers a range of exterior colors, including Jet Black, Snowflake White Pearl, Machine Gray, Deep Crystal Blue, Soul Red Crystal, Polymetal Gray, and Platinum Quartz. The model comes with a five-year, 100,000 km manufacturer’s warranty, along with a complimentary maintenance package for the same duration and mileage.

The Mazda CX-5 2.0G Mid and 2.0G High are equipped with a 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated 4-cylinder SkyActiv engine, paired with a 6-speed Skyactiv automatic transmission. Delivering a maximum power of 162hp and a torque of 213Nm, these models feature front-wheel drive. The suspension system consists of MacPherson Struts at the front and a Multi-Link setup at the rear. The drive modes include Normal and Sport.

Featuring a 2.5-litre naturally-aspirated 4-cylinder SkyActiv engine, the Mazda CX-5 2.5G High 2WD employs a 6-speed Skyactiv automatic transmission. With a maximum power output of 192hp and a torque of 258Nm, this variant operates on front-wheel drive. It incorporates MacPherson Struts for the front suspension and a Multi-Link system for the rear. The available drive modes are Normal and Sport.

Equipped with a 2.2-litre 4-cylinder SkyActiv turbodiesel engine, the Mazda CX-5 2.2D High 2WD utilises a 6-speed Skyactiv automatic transmission. Boasting a maximum power of 188hp and an impressive torque of 450Nm, this model operates on front-wheel drive. The suspension setup includes MacPherson Struts at the front and a Multi-Link system at the rear. Similar to other variants, it offers Normal and Sport drive modes.

The Mazda CX-5 2.5G High AWD is driven by a 2.5-litre turbo 4-cylinder SkyActiv engine, coupled with a 6-speed Skyactiv automatic transmission. With an all-wheel-drive configuration, this variant delivers a powerful performance with a maximum power of 228hp and a torque of 420Nm. The suspension system comprises MacPherson Struts at the front and a Multi-Link setup at the rear. It offers multiple drive modes, including Normal, Sport, and Off-Road.

The pricing for the 2024 CX-5 lineup starts with the 2.0G 2WD Mid at RM144,469.20, followed by the 2.0G 2WD High at RM161,169.20. The larger naturally aspirated engine option, the 2.5G 2WD High, is priced from RM174,960.40. Moving to the turbodiesel variant, the 2.2D 2WD High is available from RM180,322.80, with the turbocharged petrol 2.5G AWD High topping the range at RM188,760.40.

All prices are on-the-road without insurance for metallic paint finishes and exclude accessories. Additional accessories, including the Activ-e window film and LED-illuminated sill plates, can be acquired for RM2,410, while leather seats are priced at RM2,900. Premium paint options are available for an extra RM3,300.

In a highly anticipated move, luxury car manufacturer Aston Martin is gearing up to reveal its next-generation Vantage in February 2024. The company recently released a teaser image, offering a sneak peek into what auto enthusiasts can expect from the latest iteration of this iconic model.

Staying true to its rich heritage, Aston Martin has chosen to retain the name “Vantage” for its replacement, echoing the strategy employed when the outgoing Vantage replaced its predecessor. The preview image showcases distinct design elements, including fenders with deeper vents adorned by the iconic “Aston Martin” emblem. Notably, the clamshell hood featured in the current model is notably absent, adding an air of mystery to the upcoming release.

Spy shots of the new Vantage suggest a design evolution, aligning its headlights with the aesthetics of the DB12, a model unveiled in 2023. Additionally, a refreshed grille and reshaped taillights are expected to contribute to the model’s contemporary and sophisticated look. As with its predecessor, the new Vantage will be available in both coupe and convertible configurations, known as the Volante.

2023 Aston Martin Vantage F1 Edition

Auto enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting details about the mechanical specifications of the new Vantage. The current model is powered by a twin-turbocharged, 4.0-litre V8 engine developed by Mercedes-AMG, delivering an impressive 503hp to the rear wheels. Speculations suggest that the new Vantage might see an enhancement in power, though official details are yet to be revealed. It’s important to note that Aston Martin has shifted away from V12 engines, indicating that the new model will not feature a 12-cylinder variant.

The grand unveiling scheduled for February 12 promises a three-in-one treat for fans. In addition to the new Vantage, Aston Martin will showcase the GT3-specification version of the coupe and the AMR24 car, set to compete in the 2024 Formula One season. This move highlights Aston Martin’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance and innovation not only on the road but also on the global racing stage.

As the automotive world counts down to February 12, expectations are running high for Aston Martin to once again set a benchmark in the luxury sports car segment. The simultaneous introduction of the GT3-spec version and the Formula One entry further solidifies Aston Martin’s position as a brand that excels in both road-going and track-oriented performance.

BMW Malaysia has officially announced the pricing for the latest plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) variant, the new BMW X5 xDrive50e M Sport. As part of the BMW Group’s locally assembled vehicles for the Malaysian market, this PHEV version of the popular Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), known as “The Boss,” arrives in the M Sport variant, offering enhanced performance and efficiency.

Performance and Efficiency Improvements

The new BMW X5 xDrive50e M Sport boasts an upgraded PHEV powertrain with a combined output of 489hp  and an enhanced torque of 700Nm. This power, derived from the 3.0-litre straight-six petrol engine and a potent electric motor, enables the vehicle to achieve a century sprint in just 4.8 seconds. The PHEV capabilities have also seen significant improvements, with an electric range of up to 110 km (WLTP) and a faster 7.4 kW charging capacity, allowing for a full charge from 0-100% in only 4.5 hours.

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As the nation prepares to bid farewell to the 16th Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, a series of road closures have been announced to facilitate the grand sending-off ceremony. These closures, strategically planned to ensure a smooth procession, will impact key routes in the capital city. Here is a comprehensive overview of the fully closed and temporarily affected routes. As the event unfolds, roads will be reopened in stages, allowing citizens to plan their journeys accordingly.

Fully Closed Routes:

  1. Jalan Damansara to Jalan Parlimen (from the old Istana)
  2. Jalan Sultan Abdul Halim to Jalan Parlimen
  3. Lebuhraya Sultan Iskandar to Jalan Parlimen
  4. Jalan Kuching to Bulatan Dato’ Onn
  5. Jalan Salahudin to Bulatan Dato’ Onn
  6. Jalan Kuching/Jalan Sultan Ismail to Bulatan Dato’ Onn
  7. Jalan Tun Perak to Bulatan Dato’ Onn

Routes Temporarily Closed at 9 am, to be Reopened in Stages:

  1. Lebuhraya Sultan Iskandar to Jalan Damansara
  2. Jalan Travers to Jalan Damansara (from Muzium Negara)
  3. Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin to Jalan Damansara (from Bulatan Hishamuddin)
  4. Jalan Tun Sambathan to Jalan Damansara
  5. Jalan Syed Putra to Jalan Istana
  6. Jalan Dewan Bahasa to Jalan Istana
  7. Jalan Sungai Besi to KL-Seremban Expressway
  8. Lingkaran Tengah/Jalan Connaught from Lebuhraya Syed Putra
  9. New Pantai Expressway (NPE) from Pantai Dalam
  10. Maju Expressway from the Salak South Toll
  11. Kesas Highway from Sungai Besi
  12. Kesas Highway from KL/Seremban Expressway
  13. Sukom Interchange towards Kesas Highway

As the affected roads gradually reopen in stages, let us embrace the spirit of this historic moment and acknowledge the meticulous efforts taken to ensure a seamless sending off ceremony.

In the challenging terrain of Iceland, where sub-zero temperatures and snow-covered landscapes dominate, the new Mini Countryman S ALL4, especially in the John Cooper Works trim, demonstrates its off-road prowess. Against the backdrop of Iceland’s stunning nature, this crossover model stands out with its visually superior presence, characterised by a bright Chili Red body colour and a glossy black contrasting roof in jet black.

Iceland’s rugged terrain, including deep snow-covered routes and icy climbs, serves as the perfect proving ground for the Countryman S ALL4. Equipped with the ALL4 all-wheel-drive system, this crossover tackles challenging road and weather conditions with ease. The electronic control system ensures precise distribution of drive power between the front and rear wheels, providing optimal traction.

Its slightly increased track width and extended wheelbase contribute to enhanced driving dynamics and increased comfort. The adaptable chassis allows for different adjustments based on the surface and driving environment. The car strikes a balance between comfort and performance, making it ideal for exploring Iceland’s crater-filled landscapes. On well-paved roads and in urban settings, it exhibits agility, thanks to its direct steering and sporty-tuned chassis.

Under the hood, the Countryman boasts a potent 2.0-litre twin-power turbo engine that delivers smooth running, increased output of 218hp, and a maximum torque of 360Nm. Adding to its performance is a 48V mild hybrid engine, providing a temporary boost of 18hp in the low-speed range. This combination results in an exhilarating driving experience on Iceland’s expansive and straight roads.

In the John Cooper Works trim, the Countryman takes on an individual motorsport look, featuring distinctive diffusers at the front and rear. The bright Chili Red color, contrasting roof, and high-gloss jet black side mirrors create a powerful aesthetic. The Mini LED headlights, with the JCW signature, exhibit a minimalist design with two horizontal stripes as daytime running lights.

Inside, it offers comfortable seating for up to five passengers. The rear seats provide individual adjustments in six positions, offering flexibility for either additional legroom or increased cargo space. The panoramic glass roof enhances the bright atmosphere inside. In the JCW trim, synthetic leather seats with red contrasting stitching contribute to a sporty yet comfortable interior.

The crossover’s interior design extends to the dashboard and door trims, maintaining a consistent black and red color scheme. With a 450-litre trunk capacity, expandable to 1,450 litres when the rear seat is folded, it ensures practicality for various cargo needs.

On multi-lane roads, the Countryman introduces Driving Assistant Plus, allowing for partially automated Level 2 driving. The system permits the driver to take hands off the steering wheel up to a speed of 60km/h, provided they remain attentive to traffic conditions.

In the challenging and diverse landscapes of Iceland, the Mini Countryman S ALL4 JCW combines style, performance, and off-road capabilities, making it a compelling choice for adventurers seeking a unique driving experience.

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