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New Kia EV6: Bigger Battery and Upgraded Tech

The Kia EV6 has received a comprehensive update that aligns its styling with its newer siblings while enhancing its range and technological features. This facelift introduces adaptive LED headlights inspired by the larger Kia EV9, as well as the upcoming EV3 and EV5 models. The front grilles have been expanded to give the car a more aggressive look, and the rear end now features a gloss black panel split into three distinct segments with sharper edges, adding a sportier touch.

Inside the vehicle, although the overall layout remains familiar, the EV6 now boasts a different steering wheel and an updated frame for the dual screens. Kia has added a fingerprint authentication system, a 12.0-inch head-up display, and a digital rearview mirror. One notable change is the removal of the glossy piano black finish along the centre console, which had been a point of contention for some users.

Beyond these visible changes, the EV6 has been upgraded with second-row side airbags and thicker B-pillars to enhance body rigidity. The electric motors have been made quieter, and the ride comfort has been improved through tweaks to the shock absorbers. Additional sound insulation material around the rear motor further reduces noise levels. Over-the-air updates now extend beyond just the navigation system, and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay have become standard features.

In terms of performance, Kia has replaced the old 77.4-kilowatt-hour battery with a larger 84.0-kilowatt-hour pack. This new battery can charge from 10 to 80 percent in just 18 minutes at 350 kilowatts. The rear-wheel-drive EV6 Long Range variant now offers an increased range of 494km. The EV6 Long Range all-wheel-drive in Malaysia that was launched back in 2022 has a range of 506km based on the WLTP standard.

New Honda City Hatchback Facelift Launched from RM85,900 – Total of Five Variants

Honda Malaysia has finally launched the much anticipated facelifted City Hatchback. The facelifted model was available for bookings at all Honda dealerships nationwide back in April of this year.

Introduced in 2021, the City Hatchback was Honda Malaysia’s second model featuring the e:HEV technology. The e:HEV RS variant, known for its sporty appeal, contributed significantly to the Company’s hybrid sales, accounting for 16% of total hybrid sales. In 2023, the City Hatchback achieved strong sales figures, solidifying its presence in the Non-National hatchback segment.

The new Honda City Hatchback comes in a total of five variants; the S, E, V, Petrol RS and e:HEV RS.

The facelifted City Hatchback has a newly designed Honeycomb Front Grille, Front Lower Grille, LED Front Fog Lights Garnish and Rear Bumper Lower Garnish. New Berlina Black 16-inch Alloy Wheels and a new edgy-looking Side Sill Garnish further elevate the sporty appeal of both RS variants. The Petrol RS and e:HEV RS variants of the New City Hatchback is now longer with refreshed exterior design measuring 4,369mm in length while the S, E and V variants are 4,350 mm in length.

Powered by the 1.5L e:HEV powertrain, the RS variant delivers 109PS and 253Nm, while the 1.5L DOHC i-VTEC petrol version puts out 121PS and 145Nm of torque.

The interior has received some upgrades too. The RS variants now feature a red-painted dashboard panel and sporty Combi Leather seats with red stitching. Both Petrol RS and e:HEV RS are fitted with 8” Display Audio with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Wireless Connectivity, in addition to 7” TFT Meter Cluster. The New City Hatchback continues to excel in practicality and spaciousness, thanks to the ultra Seat, which comes standard across all variants.

The New City Hatchback is equipped with Honda SENSING as a standard safety feature for all variants, now including the Lead Car Departure Notification (LCDN). The complete list of Honda SENSING features in the New City Hatchback includes Low Speed Follow (LSF) – (new feature applicable for e:HEV RS only), Lead Car Departure Notification (LCDN) – new feature for all variants, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Auto High Beam (AHB).

All variants are equipped with safety features such as six airbags and Walk Away Auto Lock. The Multi-Angle Reverse Camera with Hi-Resolution are fitted in all variants except for S variant. Additionally, the V and RS variants are also equipped with Honda LaneWatch to enhance vision for blind spot. The New City Hatchback RS variants are equipped with smartphone application integration named Honda CONNECT for Safety, Security and Convenience. To provide further value, Honda CONNECT is now available as an optional accessory for S, E and V variants.

The on the road pricing without insurance for the new City Hatchback starts at RM85,900 for the S, RM90,900 for the E, RM95,900 for the V, RM100,900 for the Petrol RS and RM112,900 for the top of the line e:HEV RS.

Mercedes Halts Development of New Platforms for Luxury EVs

Mercedes-Benz has made the decision to halt the development of a next-generation platform for mid- and full-size electric vehicles as part of its efforts to reduce spending in the EV segment amidst a slowdown in sales.

Initially announced in 2021, the MB.EA platform was a key component of Mercedes’ strategy to transition exclusively to EVs by 2030. However, slower-than-expected EV sales prompted the automaker to reevaluate its plans, leading to the decision to discontinue the development of the next-generation platform.

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Sime Darby Auto ConneXion is Setting the Stage for a Limited Edition Ford Ranger

The Ford Ranger continues its winning streak with a blend of robustness and innovation, setting the stage for the unveiling of its latest model, the limited edition Ford Ranger. Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC), the sole distributor of Ford in Malaysia, is gearing up to introduce this exclusive model, poised to resonate with loyal fans and attract a wider audience with its enhanced features and premium design.

Scheduled to be showcased to the public from May 30 to June 2, 2024, at One Utama Luxe, New Wing, the limited edition Ford Ranger promises an elevated outdoor experience. Enthusiasts will have the opportunity to explore the rugged yet refined model up close and personal, with test drives available for not only the limited edition variant but also other Ranger and Everest models, providing a comprehensive overview of Ford’s versatile lineup. Interested customers can pre-register for the event via www.sdacford.com.my.

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Malaysia Auto-Market Ranks Second in Southeast Asia, Surpassing Thailand

The automotive market landscape in Southeast Asia is witnessing significant shifts, with Malaysia emerging as the region’s second-largest auto market, surpassing Thailand and trailing only behind Indonesia. This transformation underscores Malaysia’s growing importance in the automotive sector, marking a pivotal moment in the region’s automotive industry dynamics.

Data compiled by sources reveals that Malaysia’s auto sales figures have consistently outpaced those of Thailand for three consecutive quarters through January-March 2024. The Malaysian Automotive Association reports a 5% increase in auto sales in the first quarter of 2024 compared to the previous year, reaching 202,245 vehicles. This growth follows an impressive 11% surge in 2023, setting a record of 799,731 vehicles sold.

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GAC Motor Cyberjaya Open For Business – GAC GS3 Emzoom Roadshow

Evo Cartech Sdn. Bhd., an authorised dealer of GAC vehicles in Cyberjaya, officially opens its operations today, unveiling a 4,434-square-foot showroom located in the heart of the city centre. As part of the GAC Motor dealership network in Malaysia, the newly opened showroom will showcase GAC Motor’s latest lineup of automotive products, beginning with the compact SUV GAC GS3 Emzoom. This model will be available for public viewing and test drives starting from the opening day.

Distributed in Malaysia by WTC Automotif (M) Sdn. Bhd., the newly introduced GAC GS3 Emzoom SUV boasts a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, generating 177PS and 270Nm of torque. Its striking design is complemented by advanced technology features, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) safety features.

From May 16 to 19, visitors can experience the GAC GS3 Emzoom at the GAC Cyberjaya showroom, open daily from 9 am to 6 pm. For further details, interested individuals can visit facebook.com/GACMotorCyberjaya.