Local News Archives

Ford Ranger Getaways Returns With More Thrills and Adventures!

Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC), the sole distributor of Ford vehicles for the Malaysian market, has announced a new series of Ford Ranger Getaways – an event specially designed for and filled with off-roading adventures and training sessions for Ranger and Ranger Raptor owners.

The first getaway is the Ranger 4×4 Off-Road Course and Water Rafting Thrills experience in Kampung Ulu Slim, Perak, which is happening on 20 April 2024. Up next is the Sarawak 4×4 Training Academy (Sar4Trac) Beginner 4WD Course in Kampung Barieng, Bau, Sarawak, which takes place on 27 April 2024.

The beginner-level 4WD courses return following positive responses from Ranger and Ranger Raptor owners who have had past training experiences, including the recently completed M4TREC Beginner 4WD Course in March. Attendees from past trainings appreciated the quality of instructions, the practicality of the sessions and the thrill of putting their skills to the test in a controlled environment.

Made ideal for owners who are new to 4×4 driving as well as experienced drivers looking to hone their skills, the M4TREC Beginner 4WD Course provided participants with the necessary safe off-roading knowledge and techniques. Those who attended also gained deeper insights and familiarity with their vehicle to help them reach the full potential of their Ranger and Ranger Raptors.

The Ranger 4×4 Off-Road Course and Water Rafting Thrills getaway is an adrenaline-fueled rafting adventure along Slim River in Perak, which promises a full day of excitement set against the scenic beauty of Malaysia’s natural landscape. Adventurers will navigate a beginner-friendly 4×4 off-road course before experiencing the thrill of whitewater rafting along the Slim River.

Open to four people per vehicle, the Ranger 4×4 Off-Road Course and Water Rafting Thrills getaway kicks off with a convoy from Ford Ara Damansara to the rafting starting point in Kampung Ulu Slim. Along the way, participants will test their basic 4×4 skills on a beginner-friendly off-roading course under the guidance of expert instructors, during which they will discover more about the capabilities of their Rangers.

On the other hand, the Sar4Trac Beginner 4WD Course is open to two people per vehicle and is designed for all owners who want to maximise their Rangers and Raptors and take their off-roading skills to the next level.

It is tailored for off-road enthusiasts seeking to improve their skills and handle their vehicles in challenging terrains. It is also ideal for new owners looking to learn the basics of off-road driving and safety. Professional drivers can also benefit from the course by honing their skills for work purposes.

Participants will first attend a briefing on safety, the basics of 4×4 driving and the obstacle courses that they will be tackling.

Under the close guidance of instructors, participants will then put into practice the basic techniques for navigating the obstacles in a hands-on session. These obstacles include Dirt Track, Frame Twister, Mud & Gravel, Rutted Track, Ditch, Hill Ascent, Hill Descent and Water Wading.

All attendees will receive a Certificate of Completion at the end of the training session.

Apart from these organised trips such as the Ranger 4×4 Off-Road Course and Water Rafting Thrills adventure and Sar4Trac Beginner 4WD Course, there are also other getaways that customers can choose to go for on their own. Slots for all Ford Ranger Getaways are limited on a first-come, first-served basis.

For more details about the featured Ford Ranger Getaways in April and a listing of other getaways in the coming months, visit the SDAC-Ford e-commerce platform. Through this online platform, owners can also select their desired getaway, make a booking and complete payment.

GAC GS3 Emzoom Officially Launched From RM118,900 – RM128,900

WTC Automotif (M) Sdn Bhd (WTCA), a subsidiary of Warisan TC Holdings Bhd, has officially unveiled the 2024 GAC GS3 Emzoom in Malaysia.

The compact sports utility vehicle (SUV) is now available in two completely built-up (CBU) variants for the domestic market, namely the GS3 Emzoom Exclusive and GS3 Emzoom Premium R. They are officially priced at RM118,900 and RM128,900 respectively.

The Emzoom is now on sale in four vibrant colours: Salt Lake Blue, Ivory White, Graphene Grey and Super Star Silver.

WTCA is offering a Special Launch Package for the first 2000 early birds registered customers which consist of:

A) Three times complimentary scheduled service maintenance includes labour, parts and lubricants.

B) 7-Year/180,000km Engine & Powertrain Warranty exclusively for the first registered owner of the vehicle in addition to its standard 5 years/150,000km warranty.

C) These early birds will also receive a complimentary limited GAC Smart Watch Key, which functions like the original car key with the additional connectivity features of a smart watch.

The GAC GS Emzoom boasts distinctive design elements, including the iconic Mecha Wing Grille, Laser Eye Split LED lights, and Light Dart tail lights, creating a captivating and futuristic silhouette with high-visibility lighting. Adding to its allure is the Rear Spoiler, which emphasises its aggressive persona.

Complementing this is a small ducktail-style spoiler seamlessly moulded into the bodywork, a combination typically found in more luxurious and exotic cars. From the Electric Hidden Door Handles to the Crystal Shift Gear Selector, every detail exudes sophistication, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal.

Beneath the hood, the 3rd Generation 1.5T GDI engine promises power and efficiency, while intelligent features like the mid-mounted exhaust and rear flat floor make this car stand out in style and performance. The engine produces 177PS at 5500rpm and 270Nm 1,400rpm. It has a fuel consumption rating of 5.91/100km.

Step inside, the GAC GS Emzoom continues to impress with its large and spacious interior, featuring a dual-tone interior that adds a youthful flair and enhances the overall ambience with its contemporary design. Its modern and spacious cabin provides an all-rounded, comfy space for both driver and passengers.

In terms of technology, advanced features such as a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android phone mirroring, surround-view camera system, electronic parking brake with autohold are standard throughout the range.

Exclusive to the GS3 Emzoom Premium R is the added luxury of automatic climate control, six-way power adjustment for the driver seat, multi-colour ambient lighting, wireless smartphone charger, hands-free power tailgate, Fusion Automatic Parking Assist (FAPA) and a panoramic sunroof.

Occupant safety in Emzoom is upheld by a wide range of active and passive safety features as well as the latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) enabling Level 2 autonomous driving. All variants feature front and side airbags, front and rear disc brakes, hill hold control, electronic stability program (ESP) and blind spot vision as standard.

The comprehensive ADAS suite includes cruise control (ACC), Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Front Collision Warning (FCW), Traffic Sign Recognition System (TSR), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Intelligent Speed Limit Control (ISLC). High Beam Assist (HMA) and Fusion Automatic Parking Assist are available in the GS3 Emzoom Premium R.

Proton S70 Owner Receives Swift Response from Proton After Reporting 83 Issues

Following Motoqar’s report last week regarding a Proton S70 Flagship X owner experiencing 73 problems with his sedan, the owner, Ku Azhar Ku Razi, 34, has provided an update on the situation. Ku Azhar revealed that his car has been taken to the Proton Center of Excellence in Shah Alam for assessment.

“On March 17, three representatives from Proton arrived and confirmed a total of 83 genuine issues with the car, which will be thoroughly examined,” Ku Azhar stated.

He further mentioned that his car had been safely transported to Proton’s headquarters in Shah Alam. Additionally, the tally of issues increased to 83 after the inspection panel identified an additional cosmetic defect.

(more…)

Villagers Propose Dirt Road as Alternative Route to Ease North-South Expressway Congestion

Residents of Kampung Baru Palawan near Langkap have put forward a solution to alleviate traffic congestion on the North-South Expressway, especially during festive periods. They suggest utilising the “jalan tikus” (dirt road) in Ladang Bikam as an alternative route for highway users, as reported by The Star.

Lee Kim Chin, 65, who assisted motorists in navigating the Ladang Bikam dirt road during the fourth day of Hari Raya Aidilfitri, highlighted its potential to shorten the journey to Kuala Lumpur. He explained that travellers only need to cover a distance of about three kilometres before reaching the main road in Kuala Bikam, heading south.

(more…)

MG Motor Malaysia Expands with New Dealerships Nationwide

MG Motor Malaysia announced the addition of esteemed dealerships to its growing MG family across the nation.

Mega Galeri Motor Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Petaling Jaya)
- Location: Wisma GAM, Ground Floor, Lot 8241, Jalan 225, Seksyen 51A, 46100 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
- Operating hours: Mon-Sat (9am-5.30pm), Sun & PH (10am-4.30pm)
Mega Galeri Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Glenmarie)
- Location: Jalan Pelukis U1/46, Temasya Industrial Park, 40150 Shah Alam, Selangor
- Operating hours: Mon-Sat (9am-5.30pm), Sun & PH (10am-4.30pm)
Mega Appeal Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Cheras)
- Location: 82 Jalan Midah 1, Taman Midah, 56000 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur
- Operating hours: Mon-Sat (8.30am-6pm), Sun & PH (9am-6pm)
Sing Huat Premium Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Chan Sow Lin)
- Location: A-1-2, Level 1, Block A, Southgate Commercial Centre 2, Jalan Dua, Off Jalan Chan Sow Lin, 55200 Kuala Lumpur
- Operating hours: Mon-Sat (9am-7pm), Sun & PH (10am-6pm)
MN Automart Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Setia Alam)
- Location: 3 Jalan Astaka 4/KU2, Bandar Bukit Raja, 41050 Klang, Selangor
- Operating hours: Mon-Sat (9am-5pm), Sun & PH (9am-5pm)
SV Auto Haus Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Seremban)
- Location: 125, Persiaran S2B1, Seremban 2, 70300 Seremban, Negeri Sembilan
- Operating hours: Mon-Sat (9am-6pm), Sun & PH (10am-5pm)
Seong Hoe Motors Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Melaka)
- Location: C-5137 Jalan Penghulu Abas, Bukit Baru, 75150 Melaka
- Operating hours: Mon-Sat (8.30am-5.30pm), Sun & PH (10am-3pm)
Ang Trading & Motor Credit Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Muar)
- Location: 33-35 Jalan Sulaiman, 84000 Muar, Johor
- Operating hours: Mon-Sat (9am-5.30pm), Sun & PH (10am-4pm)
Ang Trading & Motor Credit Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Plentong)
- Location: 2 Jalan Mutiara 6, Taman Perindustrian Plentong, 81750 Masai, Johor
- Operating hours: Mon-Sat (9am-5.30pm), Sun & PH (10am-4pm)
SV Auto Haus Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Puchong) – operational, showroom completion in May’24
- Location: GF-4, Tower 2 @ PFCC, Jalan Puteri 1/2, Bandar Puteri Puchong, 47100 Puchong, Selangor
- Operating hours: Mon-Sat (9am-6pm), Sun & PH (10am-5pm)

These new dealerships enhance accessibility to the latest pure electric models, the MG4 and MG ZS EV, launched in Malaysia. These models set new benchmarks in the automotive industry with their fun-to-drive, cutting-edge technology, performance, and sustainability features. Customers and enthusiasts are invited to experience the remarkable driving experience firsthand by visiting any MG dealer showroom for test drives.

smart Damansara Opens 3S Centre in Mutiara Damansara

smart Damansara, an all-electric car dealership operated by Smart Mobility Sdn Bhd, has inaugurated its latest outlet in Mutiara Damansara.

Situated on the ground floor of Menara TSR in Mutiara Damansara, this expansive 3S centre covers an area of 7,500 sq ft, boasting a service centre with four service bays, a showroom, and a spare parts hub. With its four service bays, smart Damansara aims to cater to the needs of up to 30 cars per day, depending on the type of service required. The service intervals for the smart EV car are as follows:

Once a year or 20,000km, whichever comes first (Aircond Filter)
Once every 2 years or 40,000km, whichever comes first (Brake Service)
Once every 3 years or 60,000km, whichever comes first (Transmission oil)
Once every 4 years or 80,000km, whichever comes first (Coolant)

This outlet serves as a dedicated community space, offering a comprehensive and convenient experience for all smart-related needs. The 3S centre provides convenience for customers during their wait for service. While waiting, customers can enjoy complimentary coffee and snacks, with car servicing typically completed within two hours. With high-speed wifi available, customers can work or watch a movie. Additionally, there is a dedicated kids’ play zone for families to keep their children entertained while waiting.

The centre operates from Monday to Sunday with the following hours: Monday – Saturday, from 9.00am – 7.00 pm and Sunday from 10.00am – 6.00pm. Visitors are welcome for test drives anytime, however customers requiring car servicing are encouraged to schedule an appointment by calling this number: 016-5558707.

Zurich Malaysia Unveils Network of Preferred Windscreen Specialists

Zurich Malaysia, dedicated to offering personalised and comprehensive automotive care, has introduced its network of Preferred Windscreen Specialists. These carefully selected partners embody Zurich Malaysia’s core brand philosophy of “Care For What Matters,” delivering top-notch service and value for car owners.

The introduction of Preferred Windscreen Specialists by Zurich Malaysia aims to establish new standards for convenience and reliability in windscreen repair and replacement services. The network comprises four reputable partners: Nanmar Motor Service Sdn Bhd, CCH Auto Glass Sdn Bhd, Mobile Windscreen Sdn Bhd, and Dr. Cermin Sdn Bhd.

(more…)

Rafizi Reaffirms Fuel Subsidy Reduction Plans

In an interview with Bloomberg on Tuesday, Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli reaffirmed the government’s decision to cut fuel subsidies this year as part of efforts to reduce the national fiscal deficit.

As reported by The Star, Rafizi emphasised the necessity of implementing the subsidy cuts to “manage the sequence” effectively, particularly in light of looming inflation risks. The move aligns with the government’s targeted RON95 subsidy programme planned for the second half of 2024, aimed at optimising resources for those most in need.

Highlighting concerns over the distribution of blanket fuel subsidies, Rafizi noted that the top 20 (T20) income group currently receives 53% of these subsidies. He stressed that such blanket subsidies, particularly on RON95 fuel, have accounted for a significant portion of the total RM81 billion in subsidies disbursed in 2023.

The government aims to narrow the budget deficit to 4.3% of gross domestic product (GDP) this year, compared to 5% in 2023. Rafizi emphasised the importance of adhering to a certain timeline to achieve this fiscal target.

(more…)

BYD Seal U to Enter the Malaysian Market?

Speculation is swirling regarding the potential entry of the BYD Seal U into the Malaysian automotive market. The Seal U, loved for its fusion of cutting-edge technology, spacious interior, and advanced tech, has captured the imagination of Malaysian drivers seeking sustainable transportation options.

Compounding the anticipation is the presence of the BYD Seal AWD and RWD models which are already making waves in Malaysia, laying the groundwork for the Seal U’s imminent arrival.

Currently available in Europe, the BYD Seal U offers two variants: Comfort and Design. The Seal U boasts double U-shaped headlights with light clusters for enhanced visibility, while its rear showcases a continuous taillight with a waterdrops matrix pattern.

Dimension-wise, the Seal U stands 4,785mm long, 1,890mm wide, and 1,668 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2,765mm, slightly larger than the Atto 3. The Seal U rides on 19-inch aerodynamic wheels which supposedly help to improve range.

Inside, the Seal U presents a futuristic interior, featuring a floating centre console and double-layer storage compartments. A large rotatable touchscreen serves as the central control hub for connectivity and infotainment, complemented by head-up display technology for essential information projection.

With GPS as standard and a variety of Apps, including Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, the BYD Seal U’s 4G connectivity system provides an ultra-smart driving experience with modern infotainment and intuitive voice control. It also includes over-the-air (OTA) upgrades.

Cargo-wise, the Seal U offers 552 litres of boot capacity, expandable to 1,440 litres with rear seats folded down, catering to various storage needs.

Charging is swift, with 140 kW DC rapid charging enabling 30% to 80% State of Charge in just 28 minutes. The Comfort variant houses a 71.8 kWh battery, providing up to 420km of range, while the Design variant boasts an 87 kWh battery, offering up to 500km of range.

BYD Blade lithium iron phosphate batteries power both variants. The total power output is 217PS and 330Nm of torque with a top speed of 175km/h and power is sent to the front wheels.

Safety-wise, the Seal U has a five-star Euro NCAP rating and features a range of active and passive safety features essential for families, including top scores in various impact tests and child seat installation ratings.

While the BYD Seal rivals the Tesla Model 3, the BYD Seal U is up against the Tesla Model Y, which is priced from RM199,000 to RM288,000. So BYD has to play its cards right to outsell Tesla, but judging by its pricing strategy of late, BYD Malaysia may not be too concerned about Tesla.

Sime Darby Racing Team Returns to Compete in the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia 2024

Porsche Malaysia, represented by Sime Darby Auto Performance, is gearing up for its second consecutive year participating in the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia 2024 (PCCA) following a successful debut season. Partnering with Earl Bamber Motorsport (EBM), Sime Darby Racing Team will compete in the PRO category with driver Nazim Azman at the helm, aiming to continue Porsche’s motorsport legacy while nurturing local talent in motorsport.

In the upcoming 21st season of PCCA, all drivers will compete in identical Porsche 911 GT3 Cup (992) cars, ensuring equal technical standards across the field. Sime Darby Racing Team is poised to build on its achievements from the previous season and establish itself as a formidable contender in this prestigious Asian one-make series.

Christopher Hunter, CEO of Sime Darby Auto Performance, expressed pride in the team’s commitment to empowering local talent in motorsport and their eagerness to bring forward the learnings from the previous season to the 2024 season.

Nazim Azman, the Malaysian race driver representing Sime Darby Racing Team, also highlighted the pride he feels in driving the 911 GT3 Cup car with its Malaysian batik-inspired livery, symbolising a connection to home while racing internationally.

(more…)

Piston.my

Local News

Ford Ranger Getaways Returns With More Thrills and Adventures!

GAC GS3 Emzoom Officially Launched From RM118,900 – RM128,900

Proton S70 Owner Receives Swift Response from Proton After Reporting 83 Issues

Villagers Propose Dirt Road as Alternative Route to Ease North-South Expressway Congestion

MG Motor Malaysia Expands with New Dealerships Nationwide

smart Damansara Opens 3S Centre in Mutiara Damansara

Zurich Malaysia Unveils Network of Preferred Windscreen Specialists

Rafizi Reaffirms Fuel Subsidy Reduction Plans

BYD Seal U to Enter the Malaysian Market?

Sime Darby Racing Team Returns to Compete in the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia 2024

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Introduces the New CLE 300 4MATIC Coupe – RM518,888

Direct Lending partners with Tan Chong Motor to Introduce a Shariah-compliant Auto Service Financing Plan

The New Porsche Panamera is Available to Order Now – Starting from RM1.3 Million

BMW Malaysia Introduces the all-new BMW iX1 eDrive20 M Sport – RM249,800

Jaecoo J6 EV Confirmed for Malaysia

Persona Energy and UTM Launch Motorsports Education Program

BMW Group Malaysia and Gentari Electrify The Exchange TRX

New Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 4Matic Launched For RM528,888

Chery Malaysia’s Comprehensive Investigation into the Omoda 5 Back Axle Failure

Proton Opens R&D Facility in China

Archive

Review: Honda Civic Type R FL5 – How Much Better Is It Than The FK8?

Nissan and Honda Explore Partnership Amid Changing Automotive Dynamics

Xpeng’s Strategy to Capture the Mass EV Market

Lamborghini Countach 1:8 Scale Model Costs More Than Your Proton S70!

Isuzu Unveils Electric D-Max Ute Concept for Australia

Follow us on Facebook

Follow us on YouTube

The Piston Show