Icons never die, they just become better with time. That cannot be truer for an iconic brand like Mini.
Effectively under the BMW Group’s stewardship since 1994, Mini has come a long way. If you have been living in a cave for the past 40 years, you may be surprised to see what the brand has now become. (more…)
Malaysia is set to welcome a new airline, Ascend Airways Malaysia Sdn Bhd, which plans to begin operations with two Boeing B737-800s and four B737 MAX 8s by the end of 2025. Unlike previous Malaysian start-up airlines that struggled to compete against national carrier Malaysia Airlines and low-cost giant AirAsia, Ascend Airways will take a different approach by focusing on aircraft, crew, maintenance, and insurance (ACMI) services for passenger and cargo transport.
Backed by UK-based Ascend Airways, a subsidiary of Avia Solutions Group (ASG), the airline benefits from the support of the world’s largest ACMI provider. ASG, headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, operates a fleet of over 200 aircraft and oversees 16 businesses covering various aviation sectors, including cargo operations, ground handling, aircraft leasing, maintenance, and digital media.
As part of the ASG network, Ascend Airways Malaysia aims to enhance the country’s aviation industry by offering reliable ACMI services to airlines, tour operators, charter brokers, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations. The airline’s website indicates that it intends to bridge service gaps in the Malaysian aviation sector by providing flexible short-term and long-term leasing options.
Michelin Malaysia has introduced the Michelin Primacy 5 for passenger cars and crossovers of all engine types, emphasising its tagline, “Confidence Made to Last.” As a significant upgrade over its predecessor, the Michelin Primacy 4, this new model incorporates key innovations that enhance performance while reducing environmental impact.
Prichapakorn Dangrojana, Managing Director of Michelin Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei, highlighted the tyre’s improved durability and efficiency, particularly in response to the increasing demands of modern vehicles, including hybrid and electric models. He explained that these vehicles exert greater stress on tyres due to their higher horsepower and weight, necessitating a tyre that delivers extended wear life, reduced rolling resistance, and sustained wet grip performance.
Michelin’s commitment to innovation is evident in the Primacy 5, which has been specifically designed to meet the evolving needs of Malaysian motorists. With a growing preference for larger SUVs and electric vehicles in the region, Dangrojana emphasised that the new tyre offers superior value by providing enhanced safety, longevity, and a quieter driving experience.
Former Formula 1 World Champion Jacques Villeneuve found himself in an unusual predicament at Milan’s Malpensa Airport while en route to Australia for the season opener. The 1997 title winner was trapped inside a toilet cubicle for 30 minutes before resorting to kicking down the door to escape.
Villeneuve shared the bizarre ordeal with his followers on Instagram, posting a picture of himself looking unimpressed inside the grey cubicle. He revealed that he had been stuck for 20 minutes while airport security struggled to free him. With a touch of sarcasm, he described the experience as “very impressive” and noted that the toilet flushed every 30 seconds, making for an unpleasant wait.
Nissan is on the brink of a leadership overhaul as reports indicate that CEO Makoto Uchida is set to resign within the week. According to sources, Uchida’s departure comes as the company continues to struggle financially and faces mounting pressure from increasing competition, particularly in the electric vehicle sector.
Since taking over in 2019, Uchida has led Nissan through a turbulent period following the high-profile exit of former CEO Carlos Ghosn. However, his inability to secure a merger with Honda, a move that was initially seen as a potential solution to Nissan’s ongoing challenges, has reportedly contributed to his departure. Internal sources suggest that significant personnel changes are expected, including at the top level. Among those being considered as potential successors are Chief Financial Officer Jeremie Papin, Chief Planning Officer Ivan Espinos, and Chief Performance Officer Guillaume Cartier. It remains uncertain whether the next CEO will be appointed on an interim or permanent basis.
Discussions between Nissan and Honda earlier this year over a potential merger fell apart due to disagreements regarding the structure of the partnership. Honda had proposed making Nissan a subsidiary rather than an equal partner, a condition that Nissan executives strongly opposed. With Uchida now on his way out, there is speculation that Nissan may be more open to reconsidering Honda’s investment, though a full subsidiary arrangement remains uncertain. Sources within Nissan suggest that talks are likely to resume with a focus on securing financial support while maintaining some degree of autonomy.
Born in the land of the Rising Sun, the Toyota Supra is not just a car, it’s an emotion, its culture and a testament to power. Over the years, the Supra has undergone several generations of development, each bringing advancements in technology, design, and engineering.
Originally introduced in 1978 as a variant of the Toyota Celica, the Supra quickly evolved into a standalone model, earning a reputation for its blend of reliability and high performance.
From its early days as a sleek, rear-wheel-drive coupe to its legendary status in the 1990s with the turbocharged fourth-generation (A80) model, the Supra became a symbol of Japanese automotive excellence. After a hiatus in the early 2000s, the Supra made a triumphant return in 2019, rekindling its legacy with a modern twist.
The current Toyota Supra, known as the A90 (and A91 for later variants), marks a thrilling chapter in the model’s storied history, blending modern engineering with nostalgic design cues. Unveiled in 2019, this fifth-generation Supra was developed in collaboration with BMW, sharing its platform and engine with the Z4 roadster. Which has led to people calling it the “BMW Supra.”
While this partnership sparked some debate among purists, the result is a car that delivers exceptional performance, agility, and cutting-edge technology.
Unleash the Power
The A90 GR Supra is powered by a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine, producing 388PS and 500Nm of torque. It also offers a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine in some markets, catering to a broader audience. The car features a rear-wheel-drive layout, an 8-speed automatic transmission, and a near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution, ensuring exceptional balance and agility. This allows the Supra to sprint from 0-100km/h in just 4.1 seconds!
The power delivery is smooth yet explosive, with a satisfying growl from the exhaust that intensifies as you push the car harder. The Supra’s rear-wheel-drive layout and weight distribution make it an absolute joy to drive.
The chassis is stiff, the steering is precise, and the suspension strikes a fine balance between sporty firmness and everyday comfort. Whether you’re carving through winding roads or cruising on the highway, the GR Supra feels planted and responsive. After all, this was made to go up against Nissan’s Godzilla, the GTR, a rivalry that has been around for ages.
We cannot tell you exactly how fast we went in this beast but all we can say is, “The chicken was still warm.” If you are unfamiliar with that line, a quick Google search will show you why that was Jeremy Clarksons most popular line amongst the car guys.
A Nod to the Past, a Leap into the Future
The GR Supra’s design is a masterclass in blending heritage with modernity. Its double-bubble roof, muscular rear haunches, and ducktail spoiler are clear nods to the beloved A80 Supra of the 1990s.
Yet, the A90 stands on its own with sharp, aggressive lines, a low-slung stance, and aerodynamic details that scream performance. The front grille and LED headlights give it a futuristic edge, while the rear’s wide hips and taillights evoke a sense of raw power. It’s a car that turns heads everywhere it goes, whether you’re a Supra fan or not.
Inside, the GR Supra’s cabin is a blend of sportiness and modern luxury. The driver-focused layout puts all controls within easy reach, and the seats offer excellent support during spirited driving. While the interior shares some components with its BMW Z4 cousin, Toyota has added its own touches, such as Supra-branded details and a unique dashboard design.
The 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system is intuitive and responsive, featuring Apple CarPlay, navigation, and a premium sound system. The digital instrument cluster provides all the essential information in a clean, modern layout. If you have ever owned or driven a BMW, these infotainment controls should not be an issue. If you are new to it, just play around with it for a few minutes and you will get the hang of it.
However, the cabin’s compact size and limited visibility may not suit everyone. If you are tall and big just like this writer, the low roofline might be an issue getting in and out of the car, making you look less sexy while doing so. Still, these are minor trade-offs for a car designed with performance in mind.
Driving Pleasure
The GR Supra is not just about straight-line speed; it’s about the overall driving experience. The car feels agile and nimble, with a level of feedback that makes every drive engaging. The turbocharged engine provides ample torque across the rev range, and the exhaust note is addictive without being overly intrusive. Although I wished that the exhaust note was a little louder for a small car with a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine.
On twisty roads, the Supra shines. Its precise steering and well-tuned suspension inspire confidence, allowing you to push the car to its limits while feeling completely in control, even though it is a rear-wheel-drive car. The optional adaptive suspension further enhances the ride, adapting to different driving conditions with ease.
The GR Supra’s collaboration with BMW has been a point of contention for some enthusiasts. While the shared platform and engine have undoubtedly contributed to the car’s performance and refinement, some argue that it dilutes the Supra’s Japanese identity. However, Toyota has worked hard to infuse the Supra with its own character, and the result is a car that feels distinct and true to its heritage.
Living up to the Supra Name
For enthusiasts who grew up idolising the A80 Supra, the A90 is a dream come true. And for a new generation of drivers, it’s a gateway to the world of high-performance sports cars. The GR Supra isn’t just a revival—it’s a reaffirmation of Toyota’s commitment to performance and a reminder that the spirit of the Supra is alive and well.
The Toyota GR Supra is a modern classic in the making, blending heritage, innovation, and pure driving joy into one unforgettable package.
Would we buy one?
The simple answer is yes. Why? Well because we are fanboys of nameplates such as the Supra and Skyline, so owning these cars would feel just right. As long as Toyota keeps doing it right, we will keep buying them, and as for the A90 Supra, Toyota did it right.
If you have deep pockets and a burning passion for the Supra, the prices start from RM645,000 for the manual transmission and the auto transmission variant that we tested is RM655,000.
Specifications
Engine: 3.0-litre, turbocharged, inline-six-cylinder
Power: 388PS @ 6500rpm
Torque: 500Nm @ 5000rpm
Gearbox: 8-speed automatic
Top speed: 249km/h
Price (As tested): RM655,000
We like: Power and handling
We don’t like: Small interior and low roofline
Proton’s sales surged in February 2025, marking a 13.2% increase compared to the previous month. The national automaker sold 11,232 units, capturing an estimated 17.2% market share from a forecasted Total Industry Volume (TIV) of 65,276 units. The rebound comes as car buyers returned to the market following a slow start to the year.
Three Proton Models Dominate YTD Sales
Despite its growing presence in the EV segment, Proton remains committed to its internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, with three models leading their respective segments in Year-To-Date (YTD) sales:
AirAsia has announced that it will move all its domestic flight operations from Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport (Subang Airport) to Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 2 (KLIA T2), effective 7 April 2025.
According to an official statement, this strategic move aims to enhance operational efficiency and elevate the overall passenger experience, in response to growing demand across key domestic routes.
Passenger traffic between Kuala Lumpur and major destinations such as Kota Kinabalu and Kuching has surged, recording a 16% year-on-year increase. By consolidating operations at KLIA T2, AirAsia is positioning itself to better manage this growth and ensure smoother, more efficient services for travellers.
Since resuming services from Subang Airport in August 2023, AirAsia has been closely monitoring passenger trends and operational logistics. After careful analysis, the airline concluded that KLIA T2 provides a stronger long-term platform to support future growth, particularly with its capacity, infrastructure, and connectivity.
While Subang Airport remains a convenient option for passengers—especially those travelling to and from Kuala Lumpur city centre—the airport’s ongoing redevelopment efforts mean that substantial upgrades will take time before they can fully support AirAsia’s expansion needs.
BYD celebrated a major milestone as its Seal EV was crowned the winner of the 3rd Japan Annual EV Awards, marking the brand’s second consecutive victory following the Dolphin EV’s win last year.
The BYD Seal EV edged out strong competitors, including the Honda N-VAN e: and the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N, further cementing BYD’s growing reputation in Japan’s competitive EV landscape. This latest accolade adds to the Seal’s growing list of achievements, having also been named one of the “Top Ten Best Models” for 2024–2025 by the Japan Car of the Year Selection Committee.
Debuting in Japan in early 2024, the Seal EV quickly impressed both the public and industry experts. EVsmart, the organizer of the awards, praised the Seal EV for its “extremely beautiful design style and comprehensive performance,” highlighting its balance of elegant aesthetics and powerful driving dynamics. EVsmart further described the Seal as not only a benchmark for pure electric vehicles but also a standout for its high-quality driving experience.
The Porsche Macan, first introduced in 2014, was born out of Porsche’s ambition to combine the practicality of an SUV with the performance DNA of its iconic sports cars. As the younger sibling to the Cayenne, the Macan was designed to appeal to a new generation of drivers seeking a smaller, more agile luxury SUV without compromising on Porsche’s signature driving dynamics.
The name “Macan” is derived from the Indonesian word for “tiger,” symbolising agility, power, and elegance – qualities that define the vehicle. From the outset, the Macan stood out in the crowded compact SUV market with its sporty design, luxurious interior, and impressive performance. It quickly became a best-seller for Porsche, accounting for a significant portion of the brand’s global sales.
In 2024, Porsche took a bold step by transitioning the Macan to an all-electric platform, marking a new chapter in its history and the Macan Turbo EV is the crown jewel of the lineup.
As Porsche’s first all-electric SUV, the Macan Turbo EV combines the brand’s legendary performance with cutting-edge EV technology, making it a compelling choice for enthusiasts and eco-conscious drivers alike.
After a recent drive experience in Malaysia, organised by Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP), it’s clear that the Macan Turbo EV is more than just an electric SUV – it’s a statement of Porsche’s commitment to the future of mobility.
A Modern Evolution
The Macan Turbo EV retains Porsche’s iconic design language while embracing a futuristic aesthetic. The coupe-like flyline, split headlight design, and four-point daytime running lights give it a distinctive presence on the road. The optional off-road design package adds a rugged touch, with a modified front bumper for increased approach angles and 21-inch off-road wheels in Vesuvius Grey.
Inside, the cabin is a blend of luxury and technology. The 12.6-inch curved digital instrument cluster, 10.9-inch central touchscreen, and optional 10.9-inch passenger display create a high-tech environment. The augmented reality head-up display and ambient lighting that syncs with the exterior colour further enhance the driving experience. There are physical buttons for your climate control which make things easily accessible and not complicated.
Although, the only thing that annoyed us about this SUV is the gear selector placement because we kept hitting it everytime we reached for the indicator lever.
Performance That Thrills
The Macan Turbo EV is powered by a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system that delivers a staggering 639PS and 1,130Nm of torque when overboost is engaged. This translates to a 0-100 km/h sprint in just 3.3 seconds and a top speed of 260 km/h. These figures put it firmly in supercar territory, yet it retains the practicality and versatility of an SUV.
During the drive experience at Sepang International Circuit, the Macan Turbo EV showcased its agility and precision. The Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus) system and adaptive air suspension ensured exceptional handling, even during high-speed manoeuvres. The slalom exercise highlighted the SUV’s sharp steering response, which is 15% more direct than its predecessor, while the kick-plate exercise demonstrated the electronic Porsche Traction Management (ePTM) system’s ability to maintain stability in low-traction scenarios.
Practicality Meets Speed
The Macan Turbo EV is equipped with a 100 kWh NMC battery (95 kWh usable), offering a WLTP-rated range of 591 km. During the drive, the Macan’s efficiency was evident, with ample charge remaining even after a day of spirited driving. The 800V electrical architecture enables ultra-fast DC charging at up to 270 kW, allowing the battery to go from 10% to 80% in just 21 minutes. For daily use, an 11 kW AC charger can fully replenish the battery in about 10 hours.
We started the drive from M Resort KL and headed to the Estate at Federal Hill then to Sepang where we did countless rounds of gymkhana and then headed back to the resort all in a single charge. We had a total of 490km of range, so we can confidently say that range anxiety with this is something to not worry about because the total amount of range available for the Macan Turbo EV is 591km.
Driving Experience: From City Streets to the Track
The drive experience began in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, where the Macan Turbo EV effortlessly navigated bustling city streets. Its Power Steering Plus and Surround View with Active Parking Support made tight manoeuvres a breeze, while the four-zone climate control and Bose Surround Sound System ensured a comfortable and enjoyable ride.
On the highway, the Macan Turbo EV’s adaptive air suspension and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) provided a smooth and composed ride. The transition to Sepang International Circuit allowed the SUV to stretch its legs, with the rear-axle steering and ePTM system delivering precise handling and stability at high speeds.
In addition to a slalom test, we also carried out a kick plate test. What is a kick plate test you ask? It is a system that features a hydraulic plate that shifts sideways to replicate the sensation of rear-wheel traction loss, enabling drivers to experience controlled skids or spins in a safe training environment. Its low-friction surface accurately simulates hazardous road conditions, such as oil spills or slippery surfaces, providing a realistic scenario for skill development. This tool is specifically designed to help drivers improve their ability to maintain stability and control when faced with sudden loss of grip, equipping them with the confidence and expertise to handle real-world driving challenges effectively.
With the assistance of Porsche Stability Management (PSM), we had no issues controlling the car and getting back to a straight line.
Sustainability Meets Performance
Porsche has always been about performance, but the Macan Turbo EV adds a layer of sustainability. The 100 kWh battery not only delivers impressive range but also supports energy recuperation of up to 200 kW, further enhancing efficiency. Over five years, Porsche estimates that the Macan Turbo EV could reduce 460 metric tons of CO2 emissions, equivalent to planting 7,808 trees.
The Future of Performance SUVs
The Porsche Macan Turbo EV is a masterclass in blending performance, luxury, and sustainability. Its blistering acceleration, precise handling, and cutting-edge technology make it a true Porsche, while its electric powertrain positions it as a leader in the EV space. Whether you’re navigating city streets or pushing the limits on the track, the Macan Turbo EV delivers an exhilarating and refined driving experience.
For those seeking a high-performance SUV that doesn’t compromise on practicality or environmental responsibility, and if you have RM680k laying around, the Macan Turbo EV is a compelling choice.
Specifications
Macan Turbo EV
Motor: Permanent magnet synchronous motors
Power: 639PS
Torque: 1,130Nm
Battery: 100 kWh nickel manganese cobalt
Price (As tested): RMRM635,000
We like: Design, Performance and Handling
We don’t like: Gear selector placement
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