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Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Unveils Upgraded GLA 200

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia takes a leap into the future with the launch of the enhanced Mercedes-Benz GLA 200, positioning it as the gateway to the brand’s highly successful SUV family. This sporty compact SUV boasts a host of upgrades, seamlessly fusing modern technology with everyday practicality.

Exterior Elegance

The GLA 200 receives a plethora of innovations and expanded equipment, with a redesigned radiator grille featuring a central Mercedes-Benz star, single louvre, and black accents for a powerful aesthetic. The bonnet’s discreet power domes emphasise the vehicle’s self-assured presence, while the revamped front and rear bumpers, complete with simulated underguards and diffusers, enhance the SUV’s off-road capabilities. The exterior is further adorned with LED High Performance front headlamps, offering Adaptive Highbeam Assist, and 18-inch 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels.

Interior

Step inside, and the GLA 200 unveils a modernised light signature with a 10.25-inch free-standing double screen, creating a holistic high-tech experience. The multifunction sports steering wheel, now equipped with touch-control panels, adds a touch of luxury and convenience. Comfort seats upholstered in ARTICO man-made leather, Star Pattern trim elements, and variable folding backrests contribute to the interior’s flexibility and aesthetic appeal.

Safety and Assistance

The GLA 200 places a premium on safety with features like Blind Spot Assist, Exit Warning Assist, and Active Brake Assist. The Parking Package, including a reverse camera, and the Mirror Package enhance maneuverability and visibility. The Dynamic Select drive programs, including Sport, Comfort, and Eco modes, cater to diverse driving preferences.

Technological Prowess

The latest MBUX generation takes centre stage in the GLA 200, offering intuitive operation and adaptive software. The telematics system undergoes a revision with improved performance and a new design. Smartphone Integration with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, USB Package Plus with 5 illuminated fast-charging USB-C ports, and 64-color Ambient Lighting enrich the tech-savvy experience.

Powerful Performance

Under the hood, the GLA 200 is driven by a 1.3-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine paired with a 7G-DCT automatic transmission. With 163hp and a maximum torque of 250Nm, the SUV achieves a 0-100 km/h acceleration in just 8.9 seconds.

Price and Availability

The recommended retail price of the Mercedes-Benz GLA 200, inclusive of 10% sales tax, is RM 258,888, reflecting the intersection of innovation, luxury, and performance in the compact SUV segment.

Jeep Confirms The Arrival Of Its First EV: The Wagonner S

Jeep is set to make history with the introduction of its first electric vehicle bound for the US market – the eagerly awaited Wagoneer S. Slated for a fall 2024 release, the brand has teased enthusiasts with a short video, a captivating image, and impressive performance figures which is 600hp and a 0-100km/h time of approximately 3.5 seconds.

Positioned as an exclusive battery-electric vehicle, the Wagoneer S will feature Jeep’s 4xe-branded all-wheel drive as standard, coupled with the brand’s renowned all-terrain management system. While specific details regarding battery size, trims, motor technology, and pricing are yet to be disclosed, Jeep promises to unveil more information as the on-sale date approaches, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.

The Wagoneer S is set to hit US dealerships first before making its mark in “key markets around the world.” Jeep emphasises that the design of the Wagoneer S prioritises aerodynamic efficiency. The lone teaser photo offers a head-on view of a sleek, less blocky structure than traditional Jeeps.

Noteworthy features include blade-like side inlets on the lower bumper, the iconic seven-slot grille is LED-lit, and hints from the teaser video suggest a solid LED light bar gracing the rear end. Strikingly similar to the 2022 concept, the Wagoneer S maintains its distinctive aesthetic while embracing the electric future.

BMW Group Malaysia and Auto Bavaria Unveil Latest State-Of-The-Art Showroom

BMW Group Malaysia, in collaboration with Auto Bavaria, the largest authorised BMW dealership network in Malaysia, has offered a glimpse into their latest state-of-the-art showroom situated in the township of Balakong, where a preview of the new locally assembled BMW X5 xDrive50e was held. This groundbreaking facility is built upon customer-centric Retail.NEXT concept, is poised to become one of the largest BMW Group showrooms in the country and a pioneer in the Klang Valley, introducing the newest Retail.NEXT innovative design concept and service offerings.

Encompassing an expansive 240,057 square feet, the soon-to-be-opened Auto Bavaria Balakong is designed to embody the first-class atmosphere synonymous with the Premium Ownership Experience. The modern design language, coupled with a lush façade featuring a captivating courtyard garden and outdoor terrace, will create an inviting and luxurious ambience.

The showroom’s layout incorporates interactive Customer Consultation Stages strategically placed throughout the space. These stages are equipped with innovative digital sales tools, and BMW Geniuses will be readily available to guide visitors through an unparalleled automotive viewing and purchasing journey.

Adding a touch of exclusive luxury, the showroom will house a newly refurbished Grand Klasse Lounge and corresponding handover bays. This addition reflects BMW’s commitment to providing a premium experience for customers. Lifestyle-oriented facilities, including a contemporary BMW Café and lounge areas, will further enhance the overall customer experience, offering a premium space for relaxation and refreshment during visits.

The Auto Bavaria Balakong dealership is poised to showcase an extensive range of vehicles from the BMW Group, featuring BMW and BMW i models, along with vehicles from the MINI and BMW Premium Selection portfolios. This expansive and modern showroom represents a significant step forward in providing customers with a sophisticated and enjoyable environment for exploring and purchasing premium vehicles.

As BMW Group Malaysia and Auto Bavaria continue to push the boundaries of innovation and customer-centric service, the Balakong showroom is set to redefine the automotive retail experience in the Klang Valley.

BMW Group Malaysia Achieves Record-breaking Performance in 2023

In a year marked by exceptional business performance, BMW Group Malaysia celebrated the delivery of over 15,000 units of BMW, MINI, and BMW Motorrad vehicles in 2023. This accomplishment reinforces the premium automaker’s stronghold as Malaysia’s Number One Premium Automaker for the fourth consecutive year.

As part of their 20th Year Anniversary in the country, BMW Group Malaysia not only excelled in overall vehicle deliveries but also emerged as the leading Premium Electric Vehicle Provider. Over 3,600 electrifying units of BMW, MINI, and BMW Motorrad vehicles were delivered, constituting an impressive 24.5% of all deliveries and reflecting a remarkable 136% growth compared to the previous year. This brings the total of premium electrified BMW vehicles on Malaysian roads to nearly 30,000, contributing significantly to the future of electrified mobility in the country.

The BMW brand achieved the successful delivery of nearly 11,700 premium luxury vehicles, while MINI, Malaysia’s sophisticated compact premium automotive brand, recorded a notable growth of 42%, delivering more than 1,700 vehicles. BMW Motorrad experienced an upward growth of 13%, delivering over 1,500 motorcycles. Overall, there was an almost 4% increase in total deliveries across the BMW Group portfolio from the year 2022.

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BMW Malaysia Unveils Locally Assembled BMW X5 xDrive50e M Sport

In the wake of the resounding success of the BMW X5 in the Malaysian market in 2023, BMW Malaysia has given a sneak peek into the facelifted Plug-in Hybrid variant of their most successful premium Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV): the locally assembled BMW X5 xDrive50e. With the M Sport package as standard, the new BMW X5 xDrive50e promises significant updates in both performance and efficiency, embodying a blend of power and electric range that redefines modern athletic elegance.

The driving force behind the New BMW X5 xDrive50e M Sport is its enhanced PHEV powertrain. It delivers a remarkable combined output of 489hp – a substantial 96hp more than its predecessor – and an upgraded 700Nm of torque. This powerhouse, consisting of a 3.0-litre straight-six petrol engine and a robust electric motor, propels the SAV from 0 to 100km/h in just 4.8 seconds. The electric capabilities receive a boost, offering an electric range of up to 110km (WLTP) and an improved 7.4 kW of charging, ensuring a swift 0-100% charge in only 4.5 hours.

Inside the cabin, the X5 boasts a superbly crafted interior featuring a 14.9-inch BMW Curved Display with a fully digital display cluster. Enhanced by the advanced BMW Operating System 8.5, the display includes the BMW Live Cockpit Professional and BMW instrument panel, supporting various interaction methods such as iDrive Controller, voice, touch, or optional Gesture Control. Standard features include an ambient Light Bar with a crystalline surface structure and a Harman Kardon Surround sound system. The restructured centre console now includes touch-sensitive function keys, with gear changes executed using a rocker switch.

Standard features for the SAV encompass BMW Comfort Access, Driving Assistant Professional, Parking Assistant Professional, and exterior colour options of Black Sapphire, Manhattan, Mineral White, and Skyscraper Grey. The interior upholstery, a member of the BMW Individual Extended Leather family, comes in two distinct colour options – Black and Tartufo, embodying the promise of athletic sophistication and modern luxury.

The estimated pricing for the new BMW X5 xDrive50e M Sport is set at RM 530,000, positioning it as a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking a harmonious blend of performance, efficiency, and luxurious comfort in the premium SAV segment.

Ford Performance Unleashes The Off-Road F-150 Lightning Switchgear

In a groundbreaking move, Ford Performance has unleashed the F-150 Lightning Switchgear, a high-performance on- and off-road demonstrator that redefines the capabilities of America’s best-selling electric truck. Crafted in partnership with RTR Vehicles, this cutting-edge vehicle draws inspiration from the iconic F-150 RTR Ultimate Fun-Haver project of 2016, featuring custom exterior carbon bodywork adorned with a striking Ford Performance 2024 livery.

The Switchgear not only pushes the boundaries of electric trucks but also serves as the latest addition to Ford Performance’s Demonstrator program. This program, featuring notable predecessors like SuperVan 4.0, Mustang Mach-E 1400, Mustang CobraJet 1400, and the F-100 Eluminator, showcases the vast potential of electric vehicles, serving as a dynamic testing ground for engineers to rapidly advance their knowledge for future electric vehicle development.

Designed as a true off-road powerhouse, the F-150 Lightning Switchgear boasts a significant increase in track width for enhanced off-road stability. Improved ground clearance and suspension travel ensure this electric marvel conquers terrains never before explored by its counterparts.

To tackle rugged landscapes, the Switchgear’s suspension system employs FOX 3-inch diameter internal bypass shock absorbers, complemented by unique front and rear bumpers to optimise approach and departure angles. The front sports custom independent double-wishbone suspension, while the rear features multilink independent suspension with coil-over shocks, stabiliser bar, and custom control arms.

Dressed in carbon composite front fenders, bed sides, and rear bumper cover, the Switchgear is fortified with steel fabricated rock rails and a front skid plate to tackle the toughest off-road challenges. Limit straps are strategically incorporated to manage suspension and wheel travel effectively.

Adorning NITTO Ridge Grappler 37×12.5R18 tires and equipped with a distinctive chase rack featuring two spare wheels/tires, the F-150 Lightning Switchgear is ready to make its public debut at the King of the Hammers off-road racing event starting January 25 in Johnson Valley, California. Brace yourselves as Ford Performance electrifies the off-road experience, setting a new standard for electric trucks with the awe-inspiring F-150 Lightning Switchgear.

Grab Defends Earnings Structure Amid Rider Boycott Calls

Grab, the e-hailing and food delivery giant, has defended its revised delivery fee and bonus structure, which has faced criticism from some riders prompting calls for a boycott. The revamped earnings framework, implemented recently, includes reduced base fares but offers increased incentives for peak-hour deliveries, distant pick-ups, and extended wait times. Grab asserts that this new structure will ensure fair compensation for riders handling bookings that demand more time and effort.

According to Grab, the changes are based on feedback from delivery partners regarding longer wait times at merchant outlets and pick-ups situated farther away. The company aims to address concerns and enhance the compensation structure to better reflect the efforts of its most active delivery partners.

Despite Grab’s explanation, some riders have expressed dissatisfaction with the reduced base fares, leading to calls for a boycott. Posters advocating a rider boycott on a specific date have circulated on social media. While some riders acknowledge the nature of gig work, emphasising its temporary nature, others argue for the importance of fighting for fair compensation, particularly given the rising cost of living and vehicle maintenance expenses.

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Malaysian Car Sales Projected to Dip to 625,000 in 2024

In a recent report, RHB Research forecasts a decline in the total industry volume (TIV) for car sales in Malaysia, estimating a decrease to 625,000 units in 2024 after achieving a historic high of 799,000 in 2023. The research firm remains circumspect about the industry’s outlook, citing a lack of compelling factors to propel sales and earnings to new peaks.

As reported by NST, the year 2023 witnessed a robust performance, with the total production volume reaching 774,000 units. This surge was attributed to pent-up demand and the introduction of new car models. Notably, the second half of the year experienced an 18% uptick in TIV compared to the first half.

RHB Research attributes the exceptional sales performance in 2023 to pent-up demand and underscores the absence of similar catalysts in 2024. The research maintains a neutral stance on the auto and auto parts industry, with Bermaz Auto (BAUTO) identified as a top pick due to its 10% yield and resilient car sales.

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Alstom Takes Over KLIA’s Aerotrain Project, Cost Rises to RM456.1 Million

Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) has announced that Alstom, a French rolling stock manufacturer, will be the new original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for the replacement of the Aerotrain system at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). According to The Star, despite the increased cost of RM456.1 million, the project is set to be operational by the original schedule, before the end of March 2025. Pestech Technology Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Pestech International Bhd, has been reappointed as the contractor, with IJM Corp Bhd joining as the joint-venture (JV) partner.

Key Points:

Cost Increase: The new contract with Alstom will incur a cost increase capped at 15%, bringing the project cost to RM456.1 million, excluding operation and maintenance. Factors contributing to the cost hike include interest holding costs, foreign-exchange considerations, remobilisation expenses, and project coordination fees to Alstom.
Project Schedule: Alstom will serve as the project coordination lead and is tasked with coordinating the recommencement of the project, delivering three new trains and two lines by the first quarter of 2025. The project will replace the Aerotrain system that shuttles between KLIA’s terminals.
Partnership: Alstom has selected IJM Construction Sdn Bhd and Pestech Technology Sdn Bhd as partners for civil engineering and train power supply components. Alstom’s role in spearheading project management and coordination is expected to provide assurance, given the company’s successful track record in similar ventures globally.
Controversial History: The Aerotrain replacement project faced controversy when MAHB terminated Pestech Technology’s contract in August 2023, citing non-performance and breach of obligations. The termination led to the search for a new OEM and contractor, resulting in Alstom taking over the project.

MAHB’s acting group CEO, Mohamed Rastam Shahrom, stated that the increase in cost was an “acceptable variance” to ensure the project gets back on track. Alstom’s Singapore and Malaysia cluster managing director, Yann Maixandeau, expressed the company’s commitment to overcoming challenges and delivering the project on time. The Aerotrain project aims to enhance the travel experience at KLIA by replacing the existing system with more advanced technology.

Limited-Edition Subaru WRX S4 STI Sport Unveiled for Japanese Market

Subaru has announced the launch of a new limited-edition model, the WRX S4 STI Sport, aimed at the Japanese market. Limited to just 500 units, the special variant introduces a selection of unique features and styling enhancements, making it an exclusive offering for enthusiasts. The sales will be conducted through a lottery system, open for entries from January 12 to 28.

Distinctive Features

The WRX S4 STI Sport boasts several notable upgrades, including the fitment of 19-inch BBS forged wheels finished in Super Black and wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 5 tires. The exterior showcases a revised black front grille, blacked-out badges, and a black lip spoiler on the decklid. Additional styling touches include Crystal Black Silica-painted wing mirrors and a roof antenna.

Performance Enhancements

Performance-wise, the limited-edition model benefits from a tower bar under the hood and a stiffening bar at the rear, contributing to an enhanced driving experience. Under the hood, it retains the 2.4-litre horizontally-opposed turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission, delivering 271hp and 375Nm of torque.

Customised Interior

The WRX S4 STI Sport features a unique interior with a genuine leather-wrapped steering wheel adorned with silver stitching, shift boots showcasing silver stitching, and specially designed Recaro seats in the front. These seats are upholstered in ultra suede material with contrasting stitching, providing both comfort and a sporty aesthetic. The suede material extends to parts of the instrument panel, armrests, and centre console.

Exclusive Availability

Priced at 6,237,000 yen (RM198k), this limited edition WRX S4 STI Sport is anticipated to generate significant interest, with Subaru employing a lottery system for sales. The exclusivity of the model, coupled with its distinctive design elements, is likely to appeal to Subaru enthusiasts and collectors alike.