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Audi has unveiled the second major facelift for its popular seven-seat SUV, the Q7, as the current model approaches a decade on the market. This update, set to hit showrooms in the second half of the year, comes as Audi prepares to roll out its final new petrol-powered vehicles.

Originally introduced in 2015 and last refreshed in 2020, the latest facelift promises not only revised styling but also incorporates cutting-edge technology, marking a significant leap forward for the venerable model.

While industry norms suggest a new generation after eight years, Audi’s commitment to launching its last all-new petrol or diesel-engined vehicle in 2025 raises questions about the Q7’s future. The facelift, it seems, is designed to keep the Q7 competitive until the company transitions to electric vehicles, anticipated to begin in 2026, with an ultimate goal of ceasing petrol and diesel sales in all markets, except China, by 2033.

Visually, the facelift brings a fresh look to the Q7, featuring reshaped LED headlights with HD matrix LED technology, boasting 24 LEDs and laser-light tech promising enhanced high-beam illumination. Optional OLED tail lights with customisable light signatures add a touch of sophistication, adjusting brightness when another vehicle approaches.

Exterior enhancements include a restyled front bumper, a revised grille, and distinct air intakes, especially notable in the sporty SQ7 variant. Additionally, visible exhaust tips, new wheel designs ranging from 20 to 22 inches, and three vibrant colours—Sakhir Gold, Ascari Blue, and Chili Red—complete the exterior makeover.

Inside the cabin, the Q7 maintains its three-screen layout for infotainment, instruments, and air-conditioning controls. However, three new dashboard inlay options—Natural Elm Burl Silver, Matte Carbon Twill, and Matte Brushed Aluminium—offer buyers more personalisation choices. European models now feature standard grey seat stitching, and the infotainment screen introduces support for Spotify and Apple Music.

Technological updates include a digital instrument cluster capable of displaying the surroundings, including lane-change warnings, other road users, distance alerts, and traffic light information.

The Q7’s engine lineup remains unchanged, with options ranging from a 227hp, 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6 to the potent 500hp, 4.0-litre twin-turbo petrol V8 in the SQ7. All models come equipped with eight-speed automatic transmissions and all-wheel drive, ensuring a dynamic driving experience.

Options for the SQ7 include a sport rear differential, larger wheels, and red brake calipers, providing enthusiasts with additional customisation choices.

Pricing details for the revamped Q7 are set to be disclosed closer to its launch in the second half of this year.

Specifications for the Audi Q7 models:

  1. Audi Q7 45 TDI:
    • Engine: 3.0-liter turbo-diesel V6
    • Power: 227hp
    • Torque: 500Nm
    • Transmission: 8-speed automatic
    • Drive: All-wheel drive
  2. Audi Q7 50 TDI:
    • Engine: 3.0-liter turbo-diesel V6
    • Power: 281hp
    • Torque: 600Nm
    • Transmission: 8-speed automatic
    • Drive: All-wheel drive
  3. Audi Q7 55 TFSI:
    • Engine: 3.0-liter turbo-petrol V6
    • Power: 335hp
    • Torque: 500Nm
    • Transmission: 8-speed automatic
    • Drive: All-wheel drive
  4. Audi SQ7:
    • Engine: 4.0-liter twin-turbo petrol V8
    • Power: 500hp
    • Torque: 770Nm
    • Transmission: 8-speed automatic
    • Drive: All-wheel drive

In honour of the 50th Federal Territories Day celebrations, the Road Transport Department (RTD) has announced the commencement of bidding tenders for exclusive registration numbers featuring the “GOLD” prefix. Transport Minister Anthony Loke unveiled this special GOLD series as a symbolic tribute.

Prospective bidders eager to own these unique number plates can participate through JPJebid starting from February 1 until February 5 at 10 pm, with the results being announced on February 6. Minister Loke specified that the auction would include varying starting prices for different categories of numbers.

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In a strategic move toward electrification, Honda is set to join the electric sports car race, as revealed by CEO Toshihiro Mibe during CES earlier this month. Honda showcased its commitment to EVs with two concept cars, offering a glimpse into the brand’s new design language and technological advancements. However, Mibe shared that behind the scenes, a battery-powered sports car is already in the production pipeline.

The upcoming electric sports car is positioned as a pivotal member of the 0 Series, a range of electric vehicles slated for release starting in 2026. While specific details about the production model remain undisclosed, Mibe assured that development is progressing steadily. The sports car aims to be the flagship model of the 0 Series, incorporating technical innovations focused on maximising interior space, reducing battery weight, and optimising overall efficiency – all while prioritising the “joy of driving” and driver engagement.

 

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Bermaz Auto has introduced the highly anticipated 2024 Mazda CX-5 facelift to the discerning Malaysian market. This latest iteration of the CX-5 combines performance, style, and advanced features, cementing Mazda’s reputation for delivering excellence in the automotive realm.

The facelifted 2024 CX-5 boasts a redesigned three-dimensional front fascia, including an updated grille and a more compact central air intake on the front bumper. Among the notable upgrades, the 2.0G 2WD Mid now includes advanced keyless entry. Additionally, models from 2.0G 2WD High and above are equipped with convenient shift paddles behind the steering wheel and signature LED headlamps.

The wheel sizes on the 2024 CX-5 range from 17-inch alloy wheels on the 2.0G 2WD Mid and High variants to larger 19-inch wheels on the 2.5G 2WD High, 2.2D 2WD High, and the 2.5T 4WD High versions.

In terms of interior features, the 2.5G 2WD High and above models introduce seat ventilation for the driver and front passenger. Additionally, this variant level incorporates a seven-inch TFT LCD multi-info instrument display, distinguishing it from the two 2.0G variants with a 4.6-inch display. The 2.0G 2WD Mid comes with a standard display, while the High variant is equipped with a multi-info display of the same size.

Seating variations include fabric, manually adjusted seats in the 2.0G 2WD Mid, while the 2.0G High and above upgrade to leather seats with a 10-way power adjustment for the driver, along with a two-position memory. The front passenger seat is six-way power-adjustable.

Infotainment features are consistent across all variants, offering an eight-inch capacitive touchscreen, Android Auto, wireless Apple CarPlay, six speakers, four USB ports, and a wireless device charger. The 2.0G 2WD High and above versions are enriched with a 360-degree camera system, while the base 2.0G 2WD Mid includes a reversing camera.

From the 2.0G 2WD High onwards, advanced driver assistance systems are included, featuring adaptive front lighting, high beam control, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, driver attention alert, smart city brake support, smart brake support, radar cruise control, and cruising and traffic support.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 facelift offers a range of exterior colors, including Jet Black, Snowflake White Pearl, Machine Gray, Deep Crystal Blue, Soul Red Crystal, Polymetal Gray, and Platinum Quartz. The model comes with a five-year, 100,000 km manufacturer’s warranty, along with a complimentary maintenance package for the same duration and mileage.

The Mazda CX-5 2.0G Mid and 2.0G High are equipped with a 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated 4-cylinder SkyActiv engine, paired with a 6-speed Skyactiv automatic transmission. Delivering a maximum power of 162hp and a torque of 213Nm, these models feature front-wheel drive. The suspension system consists of MacPherson Struts at the front and a Multi-Link setup at the rear. The drive modes include Normal and Sport.

Featuring a 2.5-litre naturally-aspirated 4-cylinder SkyActiv engine, the Mazda CX-5 2.5G High 2WD employs a 6-speed Skyactiv automatic transmission. With a maximum power output of 192hp and a torque of 258Nm, this variant operates on front-wheel drive. It incorporates MacPherson Struts for the front suspension and a Multi-Link system for the rear. The available drive modes are Normal and Sport.

Equipped with a 2.2-litre 4-cylinder SkyActiv turbodiesel engine, the Mazda CX-5 2.2D High 2WD utilises a 6-speed Skyactiv automatic transmission. Boasting a maximum power of 188hp and an impressive torque of 450Nm, this model operates on front-wheel drive. The suspension setup includes MacPherson Struts at the front and a Multi-Link system at the rear. Similar to other variants, it offers Normal and Sport drive modes.

The Mazda CX-5 2.5G High AWD is driven by a 2.5-litre turbo 4-cylinder SkyActiv engine, coupled with a 6-speed Skyactiv automatic transmission. With an all-wheel-drive configuration, this variant delivers a powerful performance with a maximum power of 228hp and a torque of 420Nm. The suspension system comprises MacPherson Struts at the front and a Multi-Link setup at the rear. It offers multiple drive modes, including Normal, Sport, and Off-Road.

The pricing for the 2024 CX-5 lineup starts with the 2.0G 2WD Mid at RM144,469.20, followed by the 2.0G 2WD High at RM161,169.20. The larger naturally aspirated engine option, the 2.5G 2WD High, is priced from RM174,960.40. Moving to the turbodiesel variant, the 2.2D 2WD High is available from RM180,322.80, with the turbocharged petrol 2.5G AWD High topping the range at RM188,760.40.

All prices are on-the-road without insurance for metallic paint finishes and exclude accessories. Additional accessories, including the Activ-e window film and LED-illuminated sill plates, can be acquired for RM2,410, while leather seats are priced at RM2,900. Premium paint options are available for an extra RM3,300.

In a highly anticipated move, luxury car manufacturer Aston Martin is gearing up to reveal its next-generation Vantage in February 2024. The company recently released a teaser image, offering a sneak peek into what auto enthusiasts can expect from the latest iteration of this iconic model.

Staying true to its rich heritage, Aston Martin has chosen to retain the name “Vantage” for its replacement, echoing the strategy employed when the outgoing Vantage replaced its predecessor. The preview image showcases distinct design elements, including fenders with deeper vents adorned by the iconic “Aston Martin” emblem. Notably, the clamshell hood featured in the current model is notably absent, adding an air of mystery to the upcoming release.

Spy shots of the new Vantage suggest a design evolution, aligning its headlights with the aesthetics of the DB12, a model unveiled in 2023. Additionally, a refreshed grille and reshaped taillights are expected to contribute to the model’s contemporary and sophisticated look. As with its predecessor, the new Vantage will be available in both coupe and convertible configurations, known as the Volante.

2023 Aston Martin Vantage F1 Edition

Auto enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting details about the mechanical specifications of the new Vantage. The current model is powered by a twin-turbocharged, 4.0-litre V8 engine developed by Mercedes-AMG, delivering an impressive 503hp to the rear wheels. Speculations suggest that the new Vantage might see an enhancement in power, though official details are yet to be revealed. It’s important to note that Aston Martin has shifted away from V12 engines, indicating that the new model will not feature a 12-cylinder variant.

The grand unveiling scheduled for February 12 promises a three-in-one treat for fans. In addition to the new Vantage, Aston Martin will showcase the GT3-specification version of the coupe and the AMR24 car, set to compete in the 2024 Formula One season. This move highlights Aston Martin’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance and innovation not only on the road but also on the global racing stage.

As the automotive world counts down to February 12, expectations are running high for Aston Martin to once again set a benchmark in the luxury sports car segment. The simultaneous introduction of the GT3-spec version and the Formula One entry further solidifies Aston Martin’s position as a brand that excels in both road-going and track-oriented performance.

BMW Malaysia has officially announced the pricing for the latest plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) variant, the new BMW X5 xDrive50e M Sport. As part of the BMW Group’s locally assembled vehicles for the Malaysian market, this PHEV version of the popular Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), known as “The Boss,” arrives in the M Sport variant, offering enhanced performance and efficiency.

Performance and Efficiency Improvements

The new BMW X5 xDrive50e M Sport boasts an upgraded PHEV powertrain with a combined output of 489hp  and an enhanced torque of 700Nm. This power, derived from the 3.0-litre straight-six petrol engine and a potent electric motor, enables the vehicle to achieve a century sprint in just 4.8 seconds. The PHEV capabilities have also seen significant improvements, with an electric range of up to 110 km (WLTP) and a faster 7.4 kW charging capacity, allowing for a full charge from 0-100% in only 4.5 hours.

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