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BMW Unveils Next-Generation M4 Coupé and Convertible

In a groundbreaking move, BMW has revealed the highly-anticipated next-generation BMW M4 Coupé and Convertible, showcasing remarkable advancements in technology, design, and performance. The M4 series, known for its uncompromising dynamics, is set to maintain its dominance in the premium midsize segment with a range of enhancements.

Engine Upgrades

The highlight of the new M4 series is the straight six-cylinder engine featuring M TwinPower Turbo Technology, now available in three performance levels. Notably, the 480hp variant is uniquely paired with a 6-speed manual transmission in the BMW M4 Coupé, setting it apart in the competitive landscape. Meanwhile, the BMW M4 Competition Coupé boasts a powerful 510hp engine, linked to an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic.

For the ultimate driving experience, the M xDrive system is incorporated into the four-wheel drive variants, ensuring seamless power delivery. This enhances the power output to an impressive 530hp, setting a new standard for exhilarating driving dynamics.

Design and Aerodynamics

The M4 series continues to embody distinctive design elements, balancing aesthetics with aerodynamics. The large vertical BMW kidney grille, powerfully modelled wheel arches, and flared side sills create a visual impact. Notably, the M4 Competition Coupé is equipped with a standard carbon reinforced plastic (CRP) roof, while the M4 Competition Convertible with M xDrive introduces a sophisticated panel bow soft-top roof.

Powerful Straight Six-Cylinder Engine

The heart of the M4 series lies in its straight six-cylinder power units, combining high-revving characteristics with M TwinPower Turbo Technology. Engineered with motor racing technology, the power units feature an extremely stiff crankcase, a weight-reduced forged crankshaft, and innovative cooling solutions.

The performance of the straight six-cylinder engine has been enhanced, with the M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive and M4 Competition Convertible with M xDrive now delivering a maximum power output of 530hp and a torque of 650Nm within an extended engine speed range.

Advanced Transmission Options

Transmission options cater to diverse preferences, with the M4 Coupé offering a 6-speed manual transmission and the Competition models featuring an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic. The M xDrive system, available in the four-wheel drive variants, ensures exceptional traction and dynamic cornering.

M Race Track Package

For enthusiasts seeking the ultimate performance package, the M Race Track package is available, reducing vehicle weight by up to 25kg. This package includes M Carbon ceramic brakes, M Carbon bucket seats, and interior trim strips in High Gloss Carbon Fibre.

Cutting-Edge Technology in the Cabin

Inside the cabin, the M4 series introduces the BMW Curved Display, providing M-specific information and enhancing the digital experience. The BMW Operating System 8.5 powers the display, incorporating the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant and offering touch and voice control functionalities.

Customisation Options and Exclusive Packages

For drivers seeking personalisation, the M4 series offers a range of customisation options. The M Carbon exterior package enhances the racing character, featuring inserts, mirror caps, and a CFP rear spoiler. BMW Performance Parts provide additional retrofit options, including exterior CFP components, M Performance forged wheels, and interior trims.

The new BMW M4 Coupé and Convertible redefine the high-performance sports car segment, combining cutting-edge technology, distinctive design, and uncompromising performance. The worldwide market launch is eagerly anticipated, marking a new era for the iconic M4 series.

Global Popularity and Production Details

The high-performance BMW M4 Coupé has gained significant traction in the global market, with the USA leading in sales, followed closely by China, Germany, and the UK. The M4 Convertible, particularly popular in the USA, Germany, and the UK, has further solidified the series’ leading position in respective competitive environments.

Produced at the BMW Group Dingolfing plant, the new M4 Coupé and Convertible are set to make their worldwide debut with production scheduled to commence in March 2024.

All-Electric Mini Aceman Undergoes Rigorous Testing

Inching closer to its series production, the upcoming Mini Aceman is currently being subjected to gruelling tests, navigating sandy desert roads under scorching temperatures. Measuring 4,075mm in length, 1,754mm in width, and 1,495mm in height, the Aceman positions itself between the Mini Cooper and the Mini Countryman. Serving as the third stand-alone model in the all-new electric Mini lineup, the Aceman boasts four doors and a spacious tailgate, offering accommodation for up to five passengers.

The Mini Aceman, having already triumphed in tests at the Arctic Circle, is now undergoing final evaluations in the desert’s blistering heat and strong sunlight. Beyond evaluating standard features like driving dynamics and comfort, the test team places a significant focus on assessing the electric vehicle’s specific challenges. This involves rigorous testing of air conditioning, battery charging, and cooling mechanisms, as well as the performance of the drive and control components. All these tests are carried out in the demanding conditions of dusty desert sands, where temperatures can soar up to 50°C.

The forthcoming Aceman is set to be exclusively available as a fully electric vehicle, featuring a 54.2 kWh battery. Embracing the electric drive concept, this agile crossover manages to maximise comfort and versatility while minimising its road footprint. True to the brand’s fundamental principles, the design prioritises ample interior space within compact external dimensions, delivering agile driving characteristics and optimal efficiency. The functional two-box design, characterised by short overhangs, allows for a spacious interior that accommodates five passengers and luggage within a minimal footprint.

Audi Q7 Second Facelift Unveiled Ahead of Electrification Era

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:

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

Transport Minister Unveils Exclusive “GOLD” Series Number Plates

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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Honda Reveals Plans On Electric Sports Car

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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2024 Mazda CX-5 Facelift Officially Launched In Malaysia From RM144k

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.