The latest Mini John Cooper Works Countryman, with its 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine delivers a blend of style, power, and a sense of adventure. Boasting increased size, the revamped model provides more space, comfort, and safety, all packaged in a minimalist and aerodynamic silhouette with a drag coefficient of 0.26.
Packing a punch with a robust 300hp engine, the JCW Countryman accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in a mere 5.4 seconds. The standard ALL4 all-wheel-drive system ensures precise power distribution, complemented by a high-performance braking system featuring Chilli Red-coloured callipers for robust deceleration.
The distinct exhaust flap system generates a signature sound, marking it as a high-performance model. Inside, the real-time engine sounds amplify the emotional driving experience, while an exclusive JCW sound extension adds racing-inspired tones.
Abdul Halim Keply, a passionate car enthusiast, has embarked on a compassionate initiative to aid Palestinians affected by the prolonged Israeli attacks. According to NST, offering his rare and limited edition Nissan Laurel C35, one of only four in the country, for sale at RM65,000, Halim intends to direct the entire proceeds to support Palestinians during this challenging time.
The Nissan Laurel, a front-engine, rear-drive sedan produced by Nissan from 1969 to 2002, has a rich history. Positioned above the Datsun Bluebird 510, the Laurel provided a luxurious alternative in a smaller size. The eighth and final generation, introduced in 1997, featured reduced model options with engines like the DOHC two-litre, 2.5L six, or a 2.8L diesel six, and production ceased in 2002.
Maserati introduces the MC20 Notte, a limited edition of its super sports car MC20, paying homage to the brand’s racing legacy. Limited to 50 units globally, the MC20 Notte Edition combines the luxury and sportiness of the MC20 with an exclusive design inspired by the mystical power of darkness.
Collaborating with Maserati reference driver and former GT1 world champion Andrea Bertolini, the Fuoriserie team developed the MC20 Notte bodywork. The exterior transitions from glossy black to a magnetic matte ‘nero essenza’ hue, with silver details like the Trident, side logos, and Maserati signature turning to matte white gold, reminiscent of the brand’s motorsport history.
The 20” matte black birdcage wheels with matte white golden accents, black brake calipers, and Alcantara black/grey sport seats with yellow stitching contribute to the Notte’s distinctive look. The interior features the Trident on the headrests, a sport steering wheel with carbon fiber inserts, and an exclusive metal plate celebrating the MC20 Notte Edition.
The new Maxus MIFA 9, which was presented by Weststar Maxus, is the first entirely electric MPV to be sold in Malaysia. The standard Luxury model and the top-spec Premium variation are the two fully imported (CBU) MIFA 9 variants that are available.
Standard features across both models include dual power-sliding doors, 19-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights and DRLs, LED rear fog lamps, LED taillights, heated side mirrors, front and rear-operated sunroofs, and a powered tailgate.
The MIFA 9 boasts impressive dimensions, measuring 1,840mm in height, 2,000mm in width, 5,270mm in length, and 3,200mm across the wheelbase. This sets it apart from competitors like the Toyota Vellfire and Alphard, which has a wheelbase of 3,000mm and measurements of 5,005mm in length, 1,850mm in width, and 1,950mm in height.
Inside, the MIFA 9 features a 2-2-3 seat configuration, with the second row comprising individual captain chairs with Ottoman functions, ventilation, heating, and massage. The front passenger and driver seats offer eight different adjustment options and lumbar support. The black-themed interior includes a microfiber/leather steering wheel, automatic air conditioning, a 64-color ambient lighting system, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Both Luxury and Premium variants share the same electric powertrain, with the Luxury model having a slightly higher WLTP-rated range. The electric motor delivers 241hp and 350Nm, with a 0-100km/h acceleration time of 9.2 seconds and a top speed of 180km/h. The 90 kWh ternary lithium-ion battery provides a WLTP range of 435km for the Luxury variant and 430 km for the Premium.
Safety features include a 360-degree camera, front and rear parking sensors, ESP, ABS, brake assist, front, side, and curtain airbags, tyre pressure monitoring system, driver monitoring, speed assistance, auto high beam, rear collision warning, adaptive cruise control, integrated cruise assist, front and rear autonomous emergency braking, lane change assist, lane departure warning, and emergency lane keep assist.
As part of the launch campaign, the first 100 MIFA 9 buyers will receive a complimentary 22-kW AC home charger. The on-the-road price is RM269,888 for the Luxury and RM289,888 for the Premium, excluding insurance.
Every purchase comes with a five-year, 100,000km vehicle warranty and an eight-year, 200,000km battery guarantee. The MIFA 9 is available in six exterior colours, Pearl Lustre White, Dynasty Red, Mica Blue, Concrete Grey, Snow Cyan, and Black.
The Rimac Nevera is undeniably an extraordinary engineering feat. It has previously outperformed a Red Bull F1 car and the equally insane McMurtry Spéirling in a drag race, achieving an impressive 1.74-second 0-100km/h sprint. Now, its list of achievements might include breaking the world record for the highest speed achieved in reverse.
Guinness has confirmed that the Croatian hypercar shattered the previous record, set at 164km/h by a Caterham 7 Fireblade in 2001, by reaching a staggering 275km/h while driving in reverse.
Although Rimac hasn’t disclosed whether the car was modified to harness all 1,888bhp from its four electric motors in reverse, the absence of gears means the car may perform just as aggressively in reverse. However, it’s doubtful that the production version will allow such a feat, likely incorporating an electrical limit to prevent reenactment.
Goran Drndak, the driver of the record-breaking car at the Automotive Testing Papenburg facility in Germany, stated, “On the run itself, it definitely took some getting used to. Your neck is being dragged forward in a manner similar to what happens when you apply severe brakes, as you stare straight backward and see the landscape speed by you.”
“You’re controlling the steering wheel very slowly, being cautious not to throw off the balance, and you’re also monitoring the speed and keeping an eye on the rearview mirror to determine your route and stopping position. Nevera broke yet another record even though the way the car was designed was nearly entirely out of the ordinary.”
There’s good news for those eagerly awaiting the opportunity to own a Nevera. Rimac offers a Time Attack Edition, featuring a distinctive green and carbon livery, available on 12 road-going models of the £1.7 million (approximately RM9.7 million) hypercar.
Stellantis, a large automaker with famous brands like Peugeot, Citroën, Ram, Maserati, Alfa Romeo, and Jeep, has shared its plans for bringing new electric cars to Southeast Asia. They want to lead the way in making cars that run on electricity in this region.
They have a new vehicle platform called STLA Medium, which can go a long way on a single charge, is super energy-efficient, and charges up quickly. Stellantis is investing a lot of money, around €400 million (RM2 billion), to bring this platform to Southeast Asia. This platform can be used to make different types of vehicles, like electric ones, regular ones, and hybrids. It’s a big deal for local suppliers and manufacturers, who could make about €990 million (RM5 billion) in the next four years.
In anticipation of its world premiere on November 24, the third-generation Porsche Panamera provides a glimpse of its thoroughly modernised interior, influenced by the design of the Taycan. Much like its all-electric counterpart, the sporty liftback boasts a minimalist approach, with few conventional controls. Most functions are accessible through the screens and touch-sensitive keys integrated into the centre console.
The interior features a 12.6-inch digital instrument cluster, complemented by a centre touchscreen and an additional display on the passenger side of the dashboard. The centre console houses electrically adjustable air vents and an expanded storage area. In the rear, Porsche has added a touchscreen for rear occupants to access various settings, including media, navigation, and ambient lighting.
Continuing the tradition, the new Panamera will also offer a long-wheelbase Executive variant, delivering greater rear legroom and newly contoured seats for enhanced comfort on extended journeys.
Despite its size and weight, the revamped Panamera maintains a driver-centric cabin, emphasising accessibility. The driving mode selector is conveniently located on the steering wheel, which also includes a toggle switch for navigating menus on the digital instrument cluster. An optional head-up display can be controlled from the steering wheel as well.
To the right of the steering wheel is the gear selector, a strategic shift that streamlines the area between the front seats. Other updates include a continuous light strip and improved seat foam materials. Porsche plans to offer a leather-free interior option featuring materials like Race-Tex and Pepita fabric, marking a first for the Panamera.
In the pursuit of a cleaner, less fingerprint-prone interior aesthetic, Porsche has revisited the glossy black surfaces that, while appearing sleek in official images, can be prone to smudging.
With these advancements, the third-generation Porsche Panamera aims to offer not only a technologically advanced but also a more comfortable and eco-conscious driving experience.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has unveiled the new Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupé, enhancing the sporty aesthetics and interior luxury of this already successful model.
Engineered for Performance
The GLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupé offers a thrilling driving experience thanks to its 3.0-litre inline-six-cylinder engine with a Twin-scroll turbocharger. Through a software update and a larger turbocharger, the AMG development team has boosted the engine’s maximum torque from 520Nm to 560Nm, resulting in a more dynamic acceleration of 0-100km/h in just 5.0 seconds, down from 5.3 seconds. The engine benefits from electrification through an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) and a 48-volt electrical system. The ISG combines the roles of a starter and an alternator into a single, powerful electric motor located between the engine and the transmission. To ensure a smooth and comfortable ride, the AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL minimises rolling movements.
Exterior Elegance
The new AMG GLE Coupé blends sportiness with everyday practicality. It boasts more distinctive AMG character than ever before, featuring redesigned daytime running lights and advanced Multibeam LED headlamps for exceptional illumination. The front apron has been restyled with jet-wing-designed side air intakes, while the AMG radiator grille and the bonnet’s AMG emblem underscore its power. The rear showcases revised LED tail lamps and a two-pipe exhaust system, along with the presence of an AMG spoiler lip that enhances high-speed performance.
The exterior boasts 22-inch AMG cross-spoke forged wheels, illuminated aluminum-look running boards with rubber studs, and a panoramic sliding sunroof. The AMG Night package incorporates high-gloss black finishes on selected exterior elements, including the front splitter, trim strips in the front and rear aprons, window surrounds, and painted exterior mirror housings. The Ambient lighting features an animated projection of the AMG logo when the doors are opened.
Interior Sophistication
The dynamic character of the AMG GLE is reflected in the interior’s design. Angular air vents with chrome louvers, inspired by the Mercedes-Maybach GLS, catch the eye upon entry. The dashboard and door beltlines feature ARTICO man-made leather and AMG carbon-fiber trim, delivering a premium interior look. Multicontour front seats with AMG nappa leather upholstery offer a high level of comfort, while the AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather comes equipped with AMG steering wheel buttons to keep the driver focused on the road.
The head-up display projects crucial information onto the windshield for the driver’s convenience. The Burmester® 3D surround sound system offers sound personalization, providing an immersive surround sound experience tailored to individual preferences. The THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control offers four climate zones, letting the driver and front passenger customize their preferred temperature and air distribution. In addition, the center console features a temperature-controlled cup holder, which can either cool or warm drinks for the driver and front passenger. Rear passengers benefit from two USB ports for added convenience on the go.
The widescreen cockpit features two fully digital color displays, each with a diagonal of 12.3 inches. The MBUX Interior Assistant interprets hand and arm movements of the driver and front passenger, allowing them to activate specific functions with ease. The MBUX Augmented Reality Navigation combines virtual and real-world elements, facilitating navigation, particularly in complex urban environments.
Advanced Safety Features
Safety is paramount in the new AMG GLE. It includes the Driving Assistance Package Plus, which offers features like Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Extended automatic Re-start in traffic jams, Exit warning function, Active Steering Assist, and PRE-SAFE® Impulse Side. Further safety features include rear side airbags, the Parking Package with a 360-degree camera, and GUARD 360° Vehicle protection.
It is equipped with a 3.0-litre engine and boasts an impressive rated output for the combustion engine, delivering 435hp at 5,800-6,100 rpm. Its rated torque for the combustion engine is equally remarkable, with 560Nm available at 2,200 – 5,000 rpm. Additionally, the electric motor contributes with a rated output of 15kW and a torque of 200Nm.
In terms of weight and capacity, the SUV has a kerb weight of 2,375kg and offers a payload capacity of 675kg. The recommended retail price for this impressive beast, with a 10% sales tax, stands at RM873,888. It combines powerful performance and luxury, making it an attractive option for those seeking a high-performance SUV.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has introduced the all-new Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC Coupé. As the sporty counterpart of the GLC SUV, it completes the lineup of best-selling Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
Exterior Highlights
The GLC Coupé strikes a harmonious balance between sporty performance and high efficiency. It incorporates mild hybrid technology with 48-volt systems and an integrated starter-generator, providing an additional boost and energy recuperation. Off-road capabilities are enhanced with the 4MATIC all-wheel drive, while features like the off-road screen and the “transparent bonnet” as part of the 360° camera system improve driving comfort, aiding drivers in confidently navigating obstacles.
The distinct feature of the all-new GLC Coupé is its sporty silhouette, immediately identifiable as a member of the Mercedes-Benz SUV family, featuring the iconic Mercedes-Benz grille pattern. The exterior design features dramatic surfaces complemented by precisely moulded edges that emphasise its proportions and muscular wheel arches, balancing elegance and power.
The AMG Line with Chrome package includes 20-inch AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels, wheel arch liners in its colour, and an enlarged and perforated brake system on the front axle, emphasising the sporty design. The panoramic sliding sunroof enhances the exclusivity and provides ample interior lighting. Aluminium-look running boards with rubber studs underscore the GLC Coupé’s off-road capabilities, facilitating ease of entry and exit.
The SUV’s width is emphasised by two-part tail lights with black-coloured and dark red connecting elements, finished with a simulated chrome underguard. Equipped with DIGITAL LIGHT, the GLC Coupé uses a matrix of LEDs to create light that can be individually controlled, allowing targeted and dynamic light distribution. This improves driver visibility without affecting other road users. Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus enables continuous high-beam driving while avoiding glare to oncoming traffic or vehicles in front using precise LEDs.
Safety is a top priority, with the all-new GLC Coupé featuring the PRE-SAFE® system, Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, and Active Brake Assist. The GUARD 360° vehicle protection offers comprehensive monitoring of its surroundings, including a break-in and anti-theft alarm system with tow-away protection. The Parking Package with 360° camera and Active Parking Assist with PARKTRONIC ensures effortless parking with dynamic visualisation and audible feedback.
Interior Highlights
The interior of the all-new GLC Coupé is equipped with the sporty AMG Line interior, featuring a multifunction sports steering wheel in nappa leather, and the instrument panel and beltlines in ARTICO man-made leather with a nappa look. The dashboard is elegantly structured, with a wing-like profile in the upper section and a generous trim area in the lower section that seamlessly flows into the curved center console.
The 12.3-inch high-resolution LCD screen in front of the driver appears to float above the wing profile and trim surface. The 11.9-inch central display rises from the center console and is similarly designed to appear as if it is floating above the trim surface, slightly angled towards the driver.
The interior boasts metal structure trim elements and a center console in a metal-structure finish, elevating the cabin’s aesthetic. The seat design features ARTICO man-made leather upholstery with layered and contoured surfaces for visual lightness. Comfort features include the KEYLESS-GO Comfort Package, Boot Comfort Package, THERMATIC automatic climate control, and EASY-PACK tailgate.
Cutting-Edge Infotainment
The all-new GLC Coupé is equipped with the latest generation of the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system. It offers enhanced user-friendliness and features brilliant images in the driver and central displays, providing easy control of it and comfort functions. The full-screen navigation provides optimal route guidance.
The MBUX Augmented Reality for navigation uses a camera to register the SUV’s surroundings. The central display presents moving images with superimposed virtual objects, traffic signs, directional arrows, lane-change recommendations, and house numbers. This technology simplifies navigation, especially in urban areas. The GLC Coupé also features an exquisite Burmester® sound system with high-quality speakers that deliver impressive surround sound.
The GLC 300 4MATIC Coupé is equipped with a 2.0 engine, delivering a robust performance with a rated output of 258hp at 5,800 rpm and a torque of 400Nm between 2,000 and 3,200 rpm. Additionally, it features an electric motor that contributes with a rated output of 17kW and a torque of 205Nm. This combination provides the SUV with impressive acceleration, capable of going from 0 to 100km/h in just 6.3 seconds, and a top speed of 246km/h.
In terms of weight and capacity, the GLC 300 4MATIC Coupé has a kerb weight of 1,945kg and a payload capacity of 565kg. As for the price, the recommended retail price with a 10% sales tax stands at RM469,888. This SUV offers a powerful and dynamic driving experience with its performance and features, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a blend of luxury and power.
In 1985, the Alfa Romeo 75—referred to as the Milano in North America—was unveiled as a small sports sedan to rival the BMW 3 Series (E30). The Giulietta was superseded by this model, which was manufactured until 1992 and made way for the Alfa Romeo 155. An Italian coachbuilder named Carrozzeria Castagna took a 1987 Alfa Romeo 75 and turned it into the distinctive and eye-catching “Vittoria” coupe in 1994. The next year, the Vittoria made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show.
The Vittoria is a concept car that combines strange yet fascinating automotive art, and it is based on a commercial model. It’s an incredible design that was influenced by the unique SZ (Sprint Zagato). The Vittoria is still street-legal even though it is a concept car, and its 2,500km of mileage is a result of extended storage. Only some rust is noticeable at the locations where the aluminium and steel components link, otherwise the car is in superb shape.
Carefully crafted aluminium body panels were hand-hammered and affixed to a sturdy steel frame by Carrozzeria Castagna. After a thorough redesign, the inside has opulent dark green leather upholstery, tasteful wood trim, and a large Vittoria symbol on the dashboard’s passenger side. A Momo steering wheel and green Alcantara accents on the centre console, door cards, and instrument cluster top are among the other highlights.
The 3.0-litre V6 “Busso” engine, the soul of the Alfa Romeo 75, is housed behind the Vittoria’s distinctive bodywork. Following dyno testing and upgrades, the engine now produces an amazing 255hp. Brembo brakes give dependable stopping power, while a five-speed manual gearbox delivers power to the rear wheels. Koni coaxial shock absorbers at both axles and independent coil springs at the front have also been added to improve the suspension.
A Car & Classic auction will soon be held for the 1995 Alfa Romeo Castagna Vittoria. This one-of-a-kind coachbuilt masterpiece is projected to fetch a hefty price between £125,000 and £135,000 (roughly RM718,046 to RM775,489 ) and comes with complete paperwork. This is an incredible chance for collectors and enthusiasts to possess an amazing piece of automotive history if they’re looking for a rare and valuable treasure.
