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Stellantis Malaysia has officially introduced the new locally assembled Peugeot 408 which Peugeot states is neither a sedan nor an SUV – it sits in a segment of its own as it defies categorisation.

The 408 is available in three variants which are the Allure, Premium and GT. It has a PureTech 1.6 litre turbo four-cylinder engine that produces 218hp and 300Nm of torque, with power supplied to the front wheels via an eight-speed automated gearbox.

The 408 is based on Stellantis’ EMP2 platform and is 4,687mm long, 1,850 mm wide, and 1,487mm high, with a wheelbase of 2,787mm, which is roughly the size of a Honda Civic.

The all-new Peugeot 408 comes in four evocative colour options – Perla Nera Black, Okenite White, Artense Grey, and Obsession Blue is available with a choice of three trim levels, the Allure, Premium and GT.  Its sharp facets and design elements define the car’s silhouette, which is especially noticeable at the rear, the end of the roof, and the base of the wings.

The Allure comes with standard 18-inch Granite Grey wheels, while the Premium gets a set of 18-inch Granite Black wheels. Customers can elevate the look with the geometric 20-inch Monolithe Black wheels exclusive to the GT variant, and is equipped with a range of exclusive features such as Matrix LED headlights with Automatic Beam, 3D ‘Claw Effect’ LED Rear Lights, 3D Quartz Digital Metre Cluster, Configurable touch i-Toggles, Focal Premium Hi-Fi System, 360° Camera, AGR Certified Seats with Memory for the Driver and Multispot Massage Function for Passenger and Driver.

Moving inside, drivers are greeted by the latest, state-of-the-art Peugeot i-Cockpit. The design of the new Peugeot 408’s dashboard is based on a “High Vents” architecture, which positions all primary ventilation outlets at an optimal level to improve the thermal comfort of all occupants in the cabin. Right above the compact steering wheel, drivers will be greeted by a 10-inch digital instrument cluster with available 3D technology and display personalisation options for the GT variant.

The centre console itself takes on a minimalist approach, exuding a dynamic yet clean look. Primary gear controls are set through a one-touch toggle switch for Reverse (R), Neutral (N), and Drive (D), with Parking (P) positioned separately as a button. The Driving Mode selector enables drivers to experience the thrill of the all-new Peugeot 408 by selecting either Eco, Normal or Sport to experience its dynamic driving qualities and road-holding prowess.

It offers a wide range of equipment designed to offer the pleasure of travelling and mobility. The driver’s seat is awarded by the AGR association for ergonomics and back health experts, which provides a range of adjustments and comfort for everyday use.

The driver’s seat boasts 10-way power adjustment with two memory settings, while the passenger enjoys 6-way power adjustability. Both seats offer an 8-pocket air massage system with 5 selectable programs and built-in heating for ultimate comfort on long journeys. For an extra touch of luxury, the GT variant comes standard with Dynamic Black Nappa Leather for both front and rear occupants.

For added convenience, the centre console elegantly includes a wireless phone charging area, an armrest, two USB-C sockets (supporting both charging and data transfer), two large cup holders, and a generous 33 litres of storage for miscellaneous items.

The all-new Peugeot 408 offers as standard a two-part bench seat (60/40). On the GT, the two sections can be folded down immediately through two controls easily accessible from the sides of the boot. With the rear seats folded flat, the load capacity increases from 536 to 1,583 litres in the GT, and 1,611 litres for both the Allure and Premium, including an additional 36 litres of storage space under the boot.

Rear boot access is easy with multiple ways to open the motorised tailgate – via remote key fob, by pressing the button on the tailgate itself, or through a button on the dashboard. For ultimate convenience, the GT comes with hands-free access is achievable with a simple foot sweep under the bumper. The tailgate opening height can be customised using the button located on the inside of the boot lid.

Developed in partnership with Focal, a renowned French audio expert, the GT variant of the all-new Peugeot 408 boasts an exceptional Focal Premium Hi-Fi System. It gets 10 speakers featuring Focal’s exclusive patented technologies, with ARKAMYS digital sound processing, 4 aluminium dome tweeters, and 1 Polyglass centre channel with a new 12-channel 690W amplifier to deliver an immersive listening experience.

Complementing this multi-sensory experience is an ambient LED lighting function with 8 colours to choose from. Situated behind the central screen, it casts a soft glow and contributes to the sophisticated atmosphere of the cabin.

Adding on from the standard 6 airbags, electronic stability program (ESP) and Active Hood for pedestrian protection across the line, both the Premium and GT variants come with a comprehensive range of latest generation driving assistance systems such as Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go and adjustable inter-vehicle distance feature, Automatic emergency braking with collision warning which detects pedestrians and cyclists, day and night, from 7km/h to 140km/h depending on version, Active lane departure warning with lane correction, Driver Attention Alert where Driving impairment alert over long periods of driving and at speeds of over 65 km/h, by analysing the micro-movements of the steering wheel, Long-range blind spot monitoring (75 metres), Rear Traffic Alert: When reversing, it alerts the driver of close-proximity hazards, 180° high-definition reversing camera with integrated cleaning nozzle and 360° parking assistance with 4 high-definition cameras (front, rear and side).

The new Peugeot 408 retails at RM146,055 for the Allure, RM166,055 for the Premium and RM96,055 for the flagship GT. Prices inclusive of a 7-year Warranty or 200,000km, whichever comes first. 

Bentley Motors is set to unveil its third coachbuilt creation on May 7, 2024, following the remarkable Bacalar Barchetta and Batur coupe. Crafted by Mulliner, Bentley’s renowned in-house bespoke division with a rich heritage in coachbuilding, this new addition to the exclusive family of Bentleys will uphold Mulliner’s tradition of creating truly unique cars tailored to the desires of its discerning clientele.

Limited to just 16 units, this new coachbuilt Bentley will be among the final units to be powered by Bentley’s iconic W12 engine, featuring its most potent iteration.

While specifics on the power output of this new creation have not been revealed, it’s anticipated that it may not match the 730hp and 1,003Nm of torque seen in the Batur coupe. Instead, output could align more closely with the 650hp of the Speed Edition 12 model.

Bentley first introduced the W-12 engine in 2003 with the debut of the first-generation Continental GT. With production coming to a close this year, Bentley estimates that over 105,000 examples of this engine will have been produced. While Bentley has yet to announce the powertrain that will succeed the W-12, speculation suggests a plug-in hybrid configuration featuring a turbocharged V-8.

Looking towards the future, Bentley envisions a transition from plug-in hybrids to electric vehicles (EVs), albeit with a revised timeline after postponing its previous goal of completing this shift by the decade’s end. The automaker now aims to debut its inaugural EV in 2026. Given the resounding success of past offerings like the Bacalar and Batur, which sold out swiftly, there’s ample potential for coachbuilt Bentleys to thrive in the forthcoming EV era.

The excitement of Munich’s Motorworld was shattered by a Friday morning raid, as law enforcement descended on the luxury event space to seize four legendary hypercars. These weren’t your ordinary cars but rather part of Bugatti’s ultra-exclusive “Les Legendes de Bugatti” series, each fetching a hefty price tag of $12 million (RM57,234,000) when they first hit the market.

Rembrandt

The raid, conducted by a dozen officers and investigators, is believed to be connected to the infamous 1MDB scandal. This scandal involved the embezzlement of billions of dollars from a sovereign wealth fund, leading to the conviction of former Prime Minister Najib Razak in 2020.

Black Bess

Specifically, the four Bugatti Veyrons seized represent rare editions: Rembrandt, Black Bess, Jean-Pierre Wimille, and Meo Constantini, with only three units of each produced. In total, Bugatti crafted just 18 cars in this exclusive series, all based on the Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse. While their original value was around $3 million each, their current worth is difficult to determine.

Jean-Pierre Wimille

The ownership of these cars remains a mystery, as authorities have been tight-lipped about revealing any details. The raid was conducted as part of ongoing criminal proceedings, and further information is not available at this time.

Meo Constantini

The fate of the seized hypercars is uncertain, but it’s unlikely that owners will be allowed to ship them out of the country, as has been permitted in previous seizure cases unrelated to criminal activity.

The Rec Watches 98T/4 timepiece is a stunning tribute to the iconic black and gold John Player Special Formula 1 cars campaigned by Lotus, particularly the Lotus 98T chassis number 4 driven by Aryton Senna in the 1986 season. Crafted in collaboration with Classic Team Lotus, this limited-edition watch encapsulates the spirit of that legendary era in motorsport.

The watch features a striking black and gold colour scheme reminiscent of the iconic JPS livery. Constructed primarily from stainless steel, it incorporates reforged aluminium from the car’s original plenum tubes into the Chapter Ring surrounding the dial, adding a tangible connection to the historic F1 machine. The top glass is crafted from sapphire crystal for durability, while the leather strap ensures comfort and style. With a water resistance rating of 100 meters, it’s a timepiece designed for enthusiasts both on and off the track.

Limited to just 989 examples, each watch is priced at $3,995 (RM19,048), with pre-order buyers receiving a discounted price of $3,195 (RM15,233). However, eager collectors will need to exercise patience as the watches won’t be available until March 2025. Despite the wait, the demand for these pieces of F1 history is high, with the majority of the limited production already spoken for. As of April 26, only 173 pre-orders remain available, making it imperative for enthusiasts to act swiftly to secure their piece of racing heritage.

At Auto China 2024, Nissan made a significant splash under the theme “A new Nissan for a new era in China,” unveiling four new energy vehicle (NEV) concepts and showcasing a robust lineup of electrified models. This move underscores Nissan’s latest achievements and future direction in electrification, aligning with its commitment to sustainable growth in the rapidly evolving Chinese market.

The four NEV concept models, developed in collaboration with local partner Dong Feng, cater to various future mobility needs in China:

Nissan Epoch Concept

An EV sedan designed for urban and suburban lifestyles, featuring an AI-expanded Internet of Things and a virtual personal assistant for enhanced comfort and convenience.

Nissan Epic Concept

An EV SUV tailored for adventurous city couples, equipped with autonomous driving capabilities, mobile power source functionality, and advanced onboard technologies for a relaxing driving experience.

Nissan Era Concept

A plug-in hybrid SUV catering to urban lifestyles, particularly appealing to young businesspeople. It offers an interconnected entertainment system, zero-gravity seats, and advanced driving technologies for comfort and confidence.

Nissan Evo Concept

A plug-in hybrid sedan ideal for weekend getaways and family moments, featuring advanced driver support functions and an AI-enhanced virtual personal assistant for a tailored driving experience.

Additionally, Nissan showcased the Nissan Hyper Force Concept and Nissan Hyper Punk Concept, previously premiered in Tokyo. The Hyper Force Concept offers ultimate driving pleasure with high environmental performance, targeting racing enthusiasts and eco-conscious individuals. The Hyper Punk Concept aims to inspire self-expression with AI and biosensors for mood detection, enhancing energy and creativity.

Hyper Force Concept

Further underscoring Nissan’s commitment to electrification, the displayed Formula E Gen3 race car represents the Nissan Formula E team’s participation in the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship.

Nissan’s China strategy focuses on corporate value and overall competitiveness, with initiatives like the “Excitement by Ni” brand campaign embodying the commitment to innovation and enriching lives. Nissan aims to lead in providing exciting mobility experiences, leveraging intelligence and AI-based services through strategic partnerships.

Amidst rapid market changes in China, Nissan remains dedicated to driving innovation, enriching lives, and delivering exciting future mobility experiences in collaboration with local partners.

Lotus has unveiled the Evija X, a track-focused, record-chasing version of its all-electric hypercar. Designed as a one-off technical showcase rather than a production vehicle, this remarkable machine boasts an impressive Nürburgring lap time of 6 minutes and 24 seconds.

This achievement positions the Evija X as the third fastest non-homologated racing car around the Nürburgring, trailing only the Volkswagen ID.R (6:05) and the Porsche 919 Evo (5:19), the current record holder. Lotus claims that this lap time makes the Evija X the fastest car around the Nürburgring with a production car chassis. Moreover, Lotus suggests that this record-setting performance is just the beginning, as it was achieved in less-than-optimal damp conditions in October.

Visually, the Evija X stands out with its extreme aerodynamic package, reminiscent of Pikes Peak rather than traditional Nürburgring styling. The front features a massive splitter and canards, while the rear sports an enormous wing with DRS (Drag Reduction System) atop a minimalistic diffuser. Other aerodynamic enhancements include openings above the front wheels to dissipate turbulent air and revised side skirts. Additionally, the Evija X boasts new suspension components, carbon brakes, and special Pirelli race tyres.

Powering the Evija X are four electric motors, which together produce an impressive 2,000PS at full throttle. However, details about the range provided by the 70 kWh battery during flat-out Nürburgring runs have not been disclosed.

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