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GWM Tank 300 Officially Open For Bookings – Est. Price of RM250k

Great Wall Motor (GWM) Malaysia has officially opened the order books for the highly anticipated Tank 300 off-road SUV.

The Tank 300, which made a strong impression during its preview in March and subsequent test drive in China, will arrive in Malaysia as a Completely Built-Up (CBU) fully-imported vehicle. It will be available in its non-hybrid form, powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four petrol engine. The estimated pricing has been confirmed, with the SUV expected to be priced around RM250,000, slightly below the earlier indicated price.

At the ongoing Malaysia Autoshow 2024, the Tank 300 is on full display, showcasing both its standard form and a specially-kitted version. The latter features body-coloured flares and distinctive accessories, such as an over-the-top (OTT) bonnet and a stylish aluminium storage box mounted on the rear access panel. However, GWM Malaysia has clarified that this black variant with Chinese-market accessories is intended to demonstrate customisation possibilities and will not be available through official channels.

The Tank 300’s engine produces 217hp and 380Nm of torque, coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission and a dual-speed, electronically-controlled part-time four-wheel drive system. Key technical features include an all-terrain control system with nine driving modes and a maximum wading depth of 700mm.

Inside the Tank 300, the SUV boasts a luxurious interior with modern amenities. Notable features include a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The interior is adorned with Nappa leather upholstery, and standard equipment includes a nine-speaker Infinity sound system, automatic air-conditioning, and double-layer acoustic glass to enhance in-cabin noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels.

GWM Malaysia’s decision to showcase the Tank 300 at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024 underscores their commitment to bringing advanced and appealing off-road vehicles to the local market. As the launch date approaches, potential buyers eagerly await the arrival of this rugged yet refined SUV, which promises to offer a compelling mix of performance, technology, and style.

Expected to hit the Malaysian market in the second quarter of 2024, deliveries are slated to begin in July following its official launch, which is anticipated to occur next month.

Leapmotor C10 Previewed in Malaysia – Launching End of The Year

Stellantis recently announced the start of operations of Leapmotor International, which is a joint-venture strategic partnership with Leapmotor, a leading EV technology powerhouse from China. Leapmotor International’s EV product offering is considered complementary to Stellantis’ current technology and portfolio of iconic brands and will bring more affordable mobility solutions to global customers in the fourth quarter with Malaysia included in the growth plans.

Zhejiang Leapmotor Technology Co., Ltd., trading as Leapmotor, is a Chinese startup automobile manufacturer headquartered in Hangzhou, China, specialising in developing electric vehicles. The company was founded in 2015, and sold its first vehicles in 2019. In 2023, Stellantis acquired 20 percent stake of Leapmotor, and plans to sell Leapmotor vehicles in Europe.

The Leapmotor C10 is Leapmotor’s first global product, built according to global design and safety standards. The C10 is based on Leapmotor’s self-developed LEAP3.0 technology architecture, featuring industry-leading intelligent electric technology such as central integrated electronic and electrical architecture, cell-to-chassis (CTC) technology, and its flagship intelligent cockpit. It is a fully equipped, family-centric D-segment vehicle with best-in-segment premium ride and handling experience, featuring up to 420 km WLTP range, and a 5-star E-NCAP rating.

According to Stellantis Malaysia, the C10 is expected to make it’s official debut here in Malaysia and the end of the year.

smart #1 Pro and Premium Variant Pricing Adjusted – RM20k Drop for Pro Variant

smart Malaysia has just revealed here at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024 that the pricing of the smart #1 pricing for the Premium and Pro variants has been adjusted.

This strategic adjustment, combined with a global price realignment from smart Global, reflects their dedication to providing exceptional value and fostering inclusivity within the smart community.

The new On-The-Road Prices (without insurance) of smart #1 Premium and Pro with Sales and Service Tax:

smart #1 Premium: RM209,000
smart #1 Pro: RM169,000

Existing smart #1 Premium and Pro owners are offered a complimentary 4-year service package as a token of appreciation for their loyalty.

Also unveiled was the new smart #3 SUV Coupe and bookings have commenced. The smart #3 has already garnered international acclaim, winning both the iF Design Award and the Red Dot Design Award, standing as a testament to exceptional design quality and innovation curated by the Mercedes-Benz global design team.

smart Malaysia Unveils the All-New smart #3 SUV Coupe and Commenced Bookings – smart #1 Prices Adjusted

smart Malaysia has unveiled the all-new smart #3 SUV Coupe at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024 and commenced bookings. Themed ‘Chase the Thrill,’ the event aimed to ignite excitement for the Premium Dynamic Urban Companion, where style and elegance meet personality and performance on the road.

The smart #3 has already garnered international acclaim, winning both the iF Design Award and the Red Dot Design Award, standing as a testament to exceptional design quality and innovation curated by the Mercedes-Benz global design team.

Customers who book early will receive exclusive smart official merchandise worth up to RM1,500. This limited-time offer is reserved for the first 333 pre-booked customers, with a refundable RM1,000 booking fee.

Just like the #1, the #3 also comes in different specs and configurations, including the top-of-the-line Brabus version. The Premium and Pro variant get a single motor driving the rear wheels which puts out 268hp and 343Nm of torque. It can go from 0-100km/h in 5.8 seconds, up to a top speed of 180km/h.

Meanwhile, the Smart #3 Brabus gets a twin motor setup putting out 422hp and 543Nm of torque. 0-100km/h takes just 3.7 seconds, up to a top speed of 180km/h.

The #3 has a front MacPherson and rear five-link suspension structure which translates to controllability and a more precise steering response which gives you a more flexible control of the car. The AWD version uses a thicker front and rear stabiliser bar which effectively reduces body roll and improves on the cornering limit.

The higher-spec variants support 22kW of AC Charging and up to 150kW for DC charging. The base “Pro” model only supports a slower 7kW of AC charging and DC charging up to 130kW. This gives us a 455km driving range for the Premium and 415km for the Brabus. With a 0.27 ultra-low drag coefficient thanks to aerodynamic optimisations, the #3 has a 15km driving range more than the #1.

The optimisations include aerodynamic rims, front and rear wheel wind deflectors, active air intake grille and wind blade air curtains.

On the inside, you get the smart intelligent cockpit. It comes with a multi-fuction leather steering wheel, turbine-style air vents, sporty seats with integrated headrest and ventilation (Brabus and Premium variants only). Also included is a 9.2 inch full LCD high definition instrument cluster, a 10 inch full-colour head-up display and in the middle, a big 12.8 inch central control screen. In the smart #1, the Ai partner was a fox, but in the smart #3, it has been changed to a cheetah. According to smart Malaysia, this cheetah resembles the sportiness and speed of the #3.

For the Brabus and Premium variants, the infotainment system is linked to a 13-Beats speaker sound system. Also available is a 64-colour dual-zone ambient lighting system, wireless charging with four USB ports and a centre console with a chiller.

Pricing Adjustment for smart #1:

smart Malaysia also unveiled a new, more affordable pricing structure for the smart #1 Premium and Pro models. This strategic adjustment, combined with a global price realignment from smart Global, reflects their dedication to providing exceptional value and fostering inclusivity within the smart community.

– New On-The-Road Prices (without insurance) of smart #1 Premium and Pro with Sales and Service Tax:

smart #1 Premium: RM209,000
smart #1 Pro: RM169,000

Existing smart #1 Premium and Pro owners are offered a complimentary 4-year service package as a token of appreciation for their loyalty.

smart Malaysia’s unveiling of the All-New smart #3 SUV Coupe at Malaysia Autoshow 2024 signifies a bold step towards electrification and innovation in the automotive industry. With its range of variants and cutting-edge features, the smart #3 promises to redefine urban mobility while the revised pricing for smart #1 models reflects their commitment to customer satisfaction and inclusivity. Customers are invited to book the smart #3 at authorized smart dealerships or through the Hello smart App and experience the future of driving.

MINI Malaysia Unveils Three New Iconic Models at Malaysia Autoshow 2024

MINI Malaysia has introduced three new iconic models at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024. The new lineup includes the All-Electric MINI Countryman SE ALL4, the MINI John Cooper Works (JCW) Countryman ALL4, and the MINI Cooper S.

The New MINI Countryman

The New MINI Countryman SE ALL4 and the MINI JCW Countryman ALL4 are the highlights of this release, offering increased room, superior comfort, and advanced digital and safety features. Taller and more spacious, these models come with ALL4 All-Wheel Drive capability, making them versatile for urban, rural, and off-road adventures.

Exterior Design and Features:
The new MINI Countryman has grown in size, with an additional six centimetres in height and thirteen centimetres in length. Distinctive features include a new octagonal vehicle grille, LED adaptive headlights with high-beam assistant, and three light signatures in the front and rear LED lights. The New MINI Countryman SE ALL4 and JCW Countryman ALL4 come with unique trims, including roof and mirror caps in Piano Black or Vibrant Silver, and JCW-specific patterns with red accents.

Interior Design and Features:
The interior showcases a spacious, curved dashboard with textile surfaces made of recycled polyester fabric. Features include a MINI head-up display, adjustable rear seats, Harman Kardon 12-speaker surround sound system, and high-quality Vescin vegan leather upholstery. The New MINI Countryman SE ALL4 offers a luggage capacity of 460 litres, expandable to 1,350 litres, while the JCW Countryman ALL4 offers 505 litres, expandable to 1,530 litres.

Performance and Technology:
The New MINI Countryman SE ALL4 delivers 313hp and 494Nm of torque, with a 0 – 100km/h sprint in just 5.6 seconds, and an electric range of up to 432km. The JCW Countryman ALL4 offers 300hp and 400Nm of torque, achieving 0 – 100km/h in 5.4 seconds. Both models feature advanced driver assistance systems like Driving Assistant and Parking Assistant Plus, enhancing safety and convenience.

The New MINI Cooper S

The New MINI Cooper S reinvents the classic MINI design with modern features and advanced technology, emphasising its go-kart-like driving experience.

Exterior Design:
Compact proportions, round headlights, and a distinctive grille characterise the modern exterior. It is equipped with 18-inch Slide Spoke 2-tone light alloy wheels and triangular LED rear lights.

Interior Design:
The minimalist interior features a new steering wheel, round OLED display, and a spacious cockpit with high-quality vegan leather seats. The luggage capacity is 210 litres, expandable to 725 litres.

Performance:
The New MINI Cooper S is powered by a 2.0-litre engine delivering 204hp and 300Nm of torque, enabling a 0 – 100km/h sprint in 6.6 seconds. The suspension and damping system provide the signature MINI go-kart feeling, ensuring exceptional driving dynamics.

Digital Innovations

All new MINI models feature the MINI Interaction Unit, a touch-sensitive high-resolution OLED display with MINI Operating System 9, offering an immersive digital experience. The MINI Connected Package provides access to various apps, and the MINI Intelligent Personal Assistant facilitates voice-controlled navigation and other functions.

Personalisation and Connectivity:
The MINI App offers new functions like Remote 3D View, Remote Engine Start, and MINI Digital Key Plus, enhancing user convenience and vehicle sharing capabilities. Eight MINI Experience Modes allow for personalized interior ambiance with dynamic light patterns and driving sounds.

MINI Malaysia’s unveiling at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024 showcases the brand’s commitment to innovation, performance, and sustainability. The new models—All-Electric MINI Countryman SE ALL4, MINI JCW Countryman ALL4, and MINI Cooper S—represent the future of urban mobility, blending advanced technology with classic design. Enthusiasts are invited to experience these exciting new additions, reflecting MINI’s enduring “BIG LOVE” for innovation and adventure.

Estimated retail pricing of the new MINI Countryman SE ALL4, new MINI JCW Countryman ALL4 and new MINI Cooper S with SST (on the road, without insurance) is RM260,000 for the Countryman SE ALL4, RM399,000 for the JCW Countryman ALL4 and RM 280,000 for the Cooper S.

MINI Countryman SE ALL4

MINI JCW Countryman ALL4

MINI Cooper S

BMW Malaysia Unveils All-New BMW i5 M60 xDrive and New Locally Assembled BMW 520i

BMW Malaysia has introduced two new models to their premium sporty sedan lineup: the All-New BMW i5 M60 xDrive and the new locally assembled BMW 520i. These models were unveiled at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024, alongside the All-New BMW iX1 eDrive20 M Sport and the First-Ever BMW iX2 xDrive30 M Sport.

All-New BMW i5 M60 xDrive

The All-New BMW i5 M60 xDrive is a significant addition to BMW’s electric vehicle lineup, featuring a range of design, interior, performance, and technology highlights that emphasise its sporty and modern aesthetic. The M Performance kidney grille, BMW Iconic Glow exterior package, and 21-inch aerodynamic wheels from the BMW individual line contribute to its sleek design. Additional features include vertical LED strips in the headlights, a coupé-like silhouette, and slender LED taillights, creating a distinctive appearance.

Inside, the luxurious interior includes a BMW Curved Display with a 12.3-inch instrument panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen Control Display, complemented by the Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System with 18 speakers and 655 Watts output, enhancing the driving experience. The electric powertrain delivers 601hp and 795Nm of torque, allowing the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds, with a top speed of 230km/h. The high-voltage battery offers a range of up to 516km (WLTP).

Technological advancements include the BMW Operating System 8.5, BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, and Digital Key Plus with UWB radio. The Driving Assistant Professional provides advanced driver assistance with features like Distance Control with Stop & Go and Steering and Lane Control Assistant. Efficiency is optimised with adaptive recuperation, heat pump technology for interior heating and cooling, and a new Max Range function. The vehicle supports 22kW AC charging for flexibility in home and public charging. Exterior and upholstery options include colours like Black Sapphire Metallic and Mineral White Metallic, with premium upholstery options such as Leather Merino Black / Atlas Grey.

New Locally Assembled BMW 520i

The New BMW 520i shares a similar design language with its electric counterpart and includes a sleek, sporty exterior with a coupé-like silhouette, and new 19-inch aerodynamic wheels. The interior features a two-spoked steering wheel, BMW Curved Display, illuminated BMW Interaction Bar, and wireless charging tray.

Performance-wise, the vehicle is powered by the B48 4-cylinder engine in a 48V mild hybrid form, delivering 208hp and 330Nm of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 7.5 seconds with a top speed of 230km/h. Technological features include the Driving Assistant Plus with Active Cruise Control, Steering and Lane Control Assistant, and Lane Departure Warning system, enhancing driving safety and convenience.

Exterior and upholstery options include colours like Black Sapphire Metallic and Mineral White Metallic, with luxurious upholstery options such as Veganza Perforated with Quilted Black.

BMW Malaysia remains committed to providing premium vehicles that cater to diverse customer preferences while maintaining high standards of performance, efficiency, and luxury. The introduction of these new models at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024 underscores BMW’s dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction in the Malaysian market.

The estimated pricing (on the road without insurance) for the BMW i5 M60 xDrive is RM480,000 and RM340,000 for the BMW 520i.

Proton To Showcase S70 R3 Racing Car at Malaysia Autoshow 2024

Proton is set to showcase its latest motorsport innovation, the Proton S70 R3, at the 2024 Malaysia Autoshow held at the Malaysia Agro Exposition Park Selangor (MAEPS). This new racing car marks a significant milestone for Proton R3, the brand’s motorsport division, as it returns to the Sepang 1,000km (S1K) endurance race for the first time since 2019.

Proton’s Motorsport Legacy

Proton R3’s latest creation continues the company’s storied history in motorsports. The legacy began with the original Proton Saga in rally and circuit competitions and has grown through the years with multiple successful models. Proton R3 has an impressive track record, boasting five victories at the S1K race, including a remarkable streak of three consecutive wins from 2017 to 2019.

Roslan Abdullah, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Proton, highlighted this heritage, stating, “Proton has a long history in motorsports, starting with the original Proton Saga. Our involvement ramped up with the inception of Proton R3 in 2003. We have competed and won in various competitions up to a global level with models as varied as the Proton Satria, Waja, Suprima S, Iriz, and the latest version of the Saga. Now, with the Proton S70 R3, we are adding another milestone to our legacy, marking not only the return of the Proton name to the S1K event but also the first racing car based on a model jointly developed by Proton and Geely.”

The All-New PROTON S70 R3

The Proton S70 R3 represents the latest in racing car technology and design from Proton R3. The show car displayed at the Malaysia Autoshow features the newest aerodynamic package tailored specifically for racing. The S70 R3 is currently in development and is expected to compete fiercely in the upcoming S1K endurance race, with Proton set to campaign two units of this new model.

Being a race car that marks Proton’s return to the Sepang 1000km Endurance Race (S1K), you can expect it to be very different from the road going car. The interior will be devoid of any comforts such as air-conditioning and any forms of entertainment. In its place you can expect light weight racing and safety materials such as lightweight sports bucket seats, full racing harnasses and a fire retardant system, among others.

However, the biggest change will be the engine. Based on our understanding of the rules of S1K, the regulations do not allow the use of a three-cylinder engine. So in its place might be a Geely built four-cylinder engine instead.

We will get more information and confirmation and photos once we see the car tomorrow.

Exclusive Promotions at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024

In addition to the unveiling of the Proton S70 R3, Proton is offering exciting promotions and rewards for attendees at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024:

Exclusive Gifts: Attendees who book a Proton model on the spot will receive gifts such as sunshades, toll readers, and wireless chargers for selected models.
Special Promo: A special promotion is available for bookings made at the Autoshow, with registration by June 30, 2024. This includes two years of free service maintenance for the X50, X70, and X90 models, and a RM500 cash voucher for the Proton S70, Saga, and Persona.
Test Drive Lucky Spin: Participants who test drive a Proton model will have the chance to spin a lucky wheel and win exclusive Proton merchandise.

With the return to the S1K race and exclusive promotions for Autoshow attendees, Proton continues to strengthen its presence in the automotive and motorsports industries.

Malaysia Withdraws as Host of 2024 Formula E-Prix Grand Finale

Malaysia has announced its withdrawal as the host of next year’s Formula E-Prix grand finale, citing substantial upfront financial demands from the championship’s owner. The decision follows escalating tensions between Formula E and its local partner, Sports Tech Holdings, due to increased rights fees and unexpected commercial charges.

According to FMT, The conflict intensified when Sports Tech opted to move the event from the Kuala Lumpur City Circuit to the Sepang International Circuit (SIC), a decision that Formula E opposed. Sports Tech CEO Wan Agyl Wan Hassan explained that the switch was necessitated by technical difficulties with the city street circuit. However, the financial implications of hosting the event at SIC proved insurmountable.

While the exact financial demands from Formula E remain undisclosed due to a non-disclosure agreement, the decision to withdraw marks a significant setback for Sports Tech, which had been in advanced stages of planning to revive the E-Prix in Malaysia after a decade-long hiatus.

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Volkswagen Golf R Officially Priced at RM332,990, Inclusive of VAP – 320PS, 400Nm of Torque

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has announced the official sale of the locally assembled Golf R, priced at RM332,990. This price includes the Volkswagen Assurance Package (VAP), which offers owners 5 years of maintenance, an unlimited mileage warranty, and 5 years of roadside assistance.

The Golf R comes with the “R Performance Package” as standard, which features a titanium Akrapovič exhaust, 19-inch Estoril alloy wheels, a new rear spoiler, and specialised “Drift” and “Special” driving modes. The “Drift” mode prioritises torque to the rear wheels for controlled slides, while the “Special” mode is tailored for optimal performance on backroads and the demanding Nürburgring-Nordschleife racetrack.

Under the hood, the Golf R is powered by a 2.0TSI 4-cylinder turbo engine producing 320PS and 400Nm of torque. Paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch DSG transmission, it accelerates from 0-100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds and has a top speed of 250km/h. The car’s 4MOTION all-wheel drive system with performance torque vectoring ensures stability and traction.

The exterior of the Golf R is distinguished by its motorsport-inspired R front bumper and R radiator grille. It is available in three colours: Lapiz Blue, Deep Black, and Pure White. The interior boasts R decorative trim in Carbon Grey, premium Nappa sport leather seats with iconic R styling, and an R performance steering wheel with blue backlit R button and shift paddles.

New features include a Head-Up Display (HUD), a 10-inch Discover Pro infotainment system with a 10-speaker, 480-watt Harman Kardon sound system, wireless smartphone charging, and automatic high beam assist. The Golf R also includes IQ.DRIVE technology and advanced driver assistance systems such as Travel Assist with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Side Assist, Front Assist, Lane Assist, and Emergency Assist.

The Golf R will be showcased at the Malaysia Autoshow from May 22 to May 26, 2024, at MAEPS in Serdang. Also on display at the Volkswagen booth in Hall 2 will be the all-new Touareg R-Line 4MOTION and Arteon R-Line 4MOTION.

Customers attending the Malaysia Autoshow can take advantage of special promotions, including savings of up to RM36,000. Additionally, those who purchase an Arteon will enjoy free scheduled maintenance for the first 7 years of ownership. There is also an opportunity to win an all-expenses-paid luxury holiday for two at the Banjaran Hotsprings Wellness Retreat in Ipoh, Perak, by booking any Volkswagen model at the autoshow. This promotion is available nationwide until May 31, 2024.

Secondary GPS Tracker Recovers a Stolen Pickup Truck

When R. Kaviyarasan purchased a brand new four-wheel-drive truck last October, he installed a second global positioning system (GPS) tracking device for added security. This decision proved invaluable when, four months later, his pickup truck was stolen from his house in Taman Saujana Puchong in the early hours of the morning, according to The Star.

The thief, demonstrating expertise, disabled the pre-installed GPS tracking system in just over three minutes. The monitoring company for this system only notified Kaviyarasan about an hour after the device was deactivated. However, the second GPS device, which was concealed and installed by Kaviyarasan, promptly alerted him to suspicious movements. The vehicle’s location was displayed on a satellite map on his smartphone.

Kaviyarasan asked a family member to lodge a police report while he began tracking the vehicle using the GPS on his phone. Initially, he saw the truck speeding away and then stopping at a gated residential area in USJ12, Subang Jaya. Despite alerting the police and searching the area, the truck was not found.

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