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Audi R8 Performance RWD for the purists

Until the Quattro came along in the early 1980s, Audi was known for its front-wheel drive (FWD) cars and showed no interest in rear-wheel drive (RWD). With the quattro system, the company didn’t have to discuss the merits of FWD or RWD; it powered the wheels at both ends of the car. The quattro system has been synonymous with Audi, an exclusive feature on its high performance models.

But the company has not refused to make RWD cars, except that they have been in small numbers and used in competition. Models like the Le Mans-winning cars with hybrid powertrains have had what is essentially RWD, along with the R8 LMS GT4 used by customer racing teams. There has also been the R8 RWS which was a limited-production run of 999 units and ‘made for purists’.

Now, Audi Sport GmbH (which is the company that makes the R8) has come out with a new R8 Performance RWD as a complement to the V10 performance quattro version. It has the same mid-mounted V10 5.2-litre FSI engine with enhanced output of 570 ps/550 Nm to take the car from 0 to 100 km/h in a claimed 3.7 seconds, with a top speed of 329 km/h. Available in Coupe and Spyder bodystyles, it replaces the previous R8 V10 RWD which had served as an entry-level version.

Balanced for rear-wheel drive
The suspension and driving dynamics are specifically balanced for the rear-wheel drive. A mechanical limited slip differential distributes the torque ideally based on the driving situation, ensuring maximum possible traction even when the roads are wet. When Sport Mode is activated in the Electronic Stabilization Control system, the suspension set-up and control systems will allow controlled drifts.

The electromechanical power steering provides has Dynamic Steering, available for the first time for the RWD R8. This provides even more precise reaction and feedback with more direct steering. At the same time, it also increases comfort by making steering easier, such as when parking or manoeuvring.

The RWD suspension, with double wishbones and a passive differential lock, is adapted specifically for rear-wheel drive. The weight distribution is 40:60 and extra-light 19-inch and 20-inch aluminium cast wheels are fitted, or optional Cup wheels in 245/30 R20 up front and 305/30 R20 at the back can be specified. An 18-inch high-performance steel braking system with a wave design and an optional 19-inch high-performance ceramic braking system provide the necessary deceleration.

As with all R8s, the body is built of aluminium using the Audi Space Frame (ASF) design which has been around since the mid-1990s. The structure has evolved over the years and large parts are now made of carbonfibre reinforced plastic for more lightening. The Coupe version thus weighs a mere 1,590 kgs, with the Spyder weighing another 105 kgs more.

Recognizable design features
The overly sporty design is inspired by its GT4 siblings and elements of this include the broad, flat Singleframe radiator grill in matte black with an R8 emblem. There are also the large air intakes, front splitter and rear air outlet grid as well as the oval tailpipes. Enthusiasts will note that the slit under the front bonnet is reminiscent of the legendary Audi Sport quattro.

Racing car cabin
Given the exterior appearance, it would only be expected that the interior will have a ‘racing car feel’ and Audi’s designers have provided that. The eye-catching element inside is the ‘Monoposto’ – the large, heavily contoured arch that spans the area in front of the driver’s seat and is strongly reminiscent of a racing car cockpit. The Monoposto encloses the Audi virtual cockpit with a 12.3-inch screen, which is integrated into a freestanding casing. The R8 leather steering wheel with Multifunction plus has 4 control satellites, each for using Audi drive select, to start the engine, to activate Performance Mode and the engine sound as well as to control the Audi virtual cockpit.

Production largely by hand
The R8 V10 performance RWD is built – largely by hand – at Audi Sport’s factory. This is also the production site of the LMS GT4 racing car, which is derived from the production model and uses roughly 60% carryover parts. In Germany, the base price for the Coupe is €149,000 (about RM717,000), with the Spyder costing another 13,000 euros (about RM63,000).

Isuzu D-MAX Auto Plus with 4×2 drivetrain added to D-MAX range, priced from RM100,999

Before they became the ‘lifestyle’ machines of today, pick-up trucks have traditionally been workhorses. They have been used in worksites, in the jungle and anywhere ordinary vehicles could not go. Because of such a role, they were usually basic with minimum convenience features as the things that mattered to customers were performance, capability and of course, durability and reliability.

That image has long been dispelled by manufacturers such as Isuzu, specialists in pick-up trucks and light commercial vehicles. When the transition occurred from being purely for business use to a more dual-purpose role, Isuzu was ready to offer vehicles with better comfort and convenience – without sacrificing the core strengths.

The latest third-generation Isuzu D-Max is an excellent example of this evolution. Those who remember the first D-MAX that appeared in Malaysia 18 years ago will know best just how much change has taken place in the model. The Isuzu DNA has been retained but it is now a bold and stylish vehicle with even better performance and technologies.

Because of its dual-purpose role, manufacturers of pick-up trucks typically develop a variety of versions with different powertrains and drivetrains to suit different needs. Joining the D-MAX range in Malaysia today is a new variant – the D-Max Auto Plus 4×2. The 4×2 drivetrain means it has only rear-wheel drive.

According to Isuzu Malaysia, only 28% of pick-up truck users in this country frequently make use of their vehicle’s 4×4 system. These could well be the ones who use it in its original role in off-road conditions where 4×4 is helpful. For the rest, the vehicle might be used as daily transport to work or even just a weekend vehicle for recreation.

Less weight, less complexity
While 4×4 is useful, it also means additional weight with additional hardware which a 4×2 does not need. The less complex drivetrain, with just a propeller shaft to the rear axle lowers means lower kerb weight and there’s also lower rolling resistance. Maintenance requirements are also less, so for those who do not really need 4×4, this variant would be ideal.

By not having the transfer case, front differential and ancillary drive system, the D-Max Auto Plus 4×2 weighs 1,830 kgs, a difference of 85 kgs compared to the 4×4 variant and about the weight of an average adult.

Based on similar specifications as the D-Max Standard 4×4 Auto variant, the D-Max Auto Plus 4×2 is powered by the latest 1.9-litre RZ4E-TC 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine that produces a 150 ps/350 Nm. The engine has impressive performance despite its smaller displacement than other pick-ups. Power delivery to the rear wheels is via a 6-speed automatic transmission with ratios identical to the 4×4 variant. However, the tuning has been matched to exploit the engine’s dynamic performance characteristics, in particular, its flat torque delivery and flexible throttle response.

The Isuzu Dynamic Drive Platform supports the vehicle and offers good stability and excellent flex resistance, making it a very capable vehicle regardless of load. To be able to have a superior payload capability, the standard suspension rating is specified for the double wishbone set-up up front and 3-leaf semi-elliptical springs in the rear.

Safety systems like a car
The pick-up truck has not only evolved in features and performance but also has much better safety than the earlier generations. The driver of today’s D-MAX has ABS and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution for assured and stable braking as well as control, along with Brake Assist to boost braking pressure when needed. The vehicle even comes with Electronic Stability Control and Traction Control which will help maintain stability on slippery surfaces, especially corners. In off-road conditions (yes, a 4×2 can also go off-road), the driver can get help from Hill Start Assist) and Hill Descent Control as well as a Brake Override System.

For those who find the length of a pick-up truck intimidating, especially when reverse parking, there are reverse sensors in the rear bumper to help. These provide audible assistance to the driver, complemented by a 4-zone graphic in the instrument panel to indicate the location and distance to obstacles. So there’s no more guesswork when parking and no stress either.

Manufacturers used to give less attention to safety where pick-up trucks were concerned but that is not the case today. The construction and safety systems are also comparable to passenger cars and in the case of the latest D-MAX range which ASEAN NCAP has crash-tested, the findings warrant the maximum safety rating of 5 stars.

Comfortable and safe double cab
Inside the double cab of the D-Max Auto Plus 4×2, the seats have a woven-texture fabric that is both hard-wearing and easy to clean. The seats are generously-proportioned with ample support for comfort over long periods. The driver’s seat can even be manually adjusted 6 ways to suit just about any body shape.

For the safety of everyone on board, all seats in the D-Max are designed to offer whiplash protection while ISOFIX mounts are available in the rear seats for compatible childseats. All 5 occupants get inertia reel 3-point seatbelts and if one is not in use but there is an occupant, there will be an audible and visual reminder.

The D-Max Auto Plus 4×2 is clearly not a ‘low-cost’ version which usually means minimum features and equipment. It comes with a leather-wrapped steering wheel that has audio and phone controls as well as switches to manage the views on the 4.2-inch colour display in the instrument panel. The instrument panel has an e-LUMAX display that makes it easy to read in all lighting conditions.

The 7-inch multimedia system has touchscreen convenience and connectivity options such as USB, Bluetooth, wifi, MirrorLink, Miracast, Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay so it will be possible to interface most smartphones with the system. Power for devices can be obtained from a 12V 120W plug-in power socket up front and one USB port each for front and rear users.

“In these challenging times, the new Isuzu D-Max Auto Plus 4×2 1.9L brings a new level of relief by offering affordability and capability in a well-appointed and stylish package. This new D-Max variant that we are introducing today will be the sole 4×2 offering in its class that comes with an automatic transmission,” said Kenkichi Sogo, Chief Operating Officer of Isuzu Malaysia.

The new D-Max Auto Plus 4×2 can be booked from today, with deliveries beginning from early November 2021. For the Peninsular Malaysia market, it is priced from RM100,999.20 without insurance. Customers can choose from 5 colour choices and the standard warranty is 5 years or a maximum of 150,000 kms.

For more information on this model and other D-Max variants available in Malaysia, visit pickuptruck.isuzu.net.my where you can find e-brochures and make online requests for a test drive.

No replacement for displacement? Isuzu destroys that perception!

UMW Toyota Motor reports rising Toyota and Lexus sales as market moves towards normalcy

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a big impact not only on people (many of whom lost loved ones) but also on businesses. Apart from reduced business due to restricted movements, forced suspension of activities also made things worse. But now things seem to be heading towards some normalcy and as life gradually returns to normal, businesses are seeing a steady improvement in sales.

In the auto sector, which was allowed to resume operations from the second half of August, the number of new vehicles produced, sold and delivered also rose significantly in September, the first full month of operations.

UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) reports a total sales volume of 8,033 vehicles, an increase of 5,509 units over the August volume. This was made up of 7,931 Toyota vehicles and 102 Lexus vehicles. The volume was also 43% higher than for the same month in 2020 when 5,605 vehicles were sold.

On a cumulative basis, year-to-date sales of Toyota and Lexus vehicles in Malaysia reached 43,594 units at the end of September. In the same 9-month period in 2020, the total volume reached only 25,978 units, an indication of the severity of the first Movement Control Order (MCO) during the second half of 2020.

“We are certainly pleased to see the market steadily moving towards normalcy as the past few months have been challenging for us. Our showrooms have been open and receiving many customers daily, and bookings for the latest models have been increasing. As a result, our total sales in September for Toyota and Lexus vehicles was a phenomenal 223% greater than the August volume,” said President of UMW Toyota Motor, Ravindran. K.

All SOPs followed
Mr. Ravindran said that even before the lockdown was lifted, all facilities had been sanitized and ready for visitors in accordance with the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) specified by the Ministry of Health. The SOPs are now strictly observed at all outlets and a company-wide program was undertaken to ensure that the entire workforce is fully vaccinated.

“I would like to assure our customers that they will be safe and protected when they visit our showrooms or service centres but at the same time, we remind them that they need to comply with the SOPs. This means having temperature scans and registering their visit using the MySejahtera app, as well as using hand sanitizers and facemasks at all times,” he said.

‘Visit & Win’ promotion
To welcome visitors back to Toyota showrooms nationwide, UMWT is having a ‘Visit & Win’ promotion with a total of RM30,000 worth of prizes to be won. You do not have to buy anything at all; all you need to do is visit any authorised Toyota showroom, take a picture and then upload it to social media (eg Facebook or Instagram) with a caption. Once it is posted, let UMWT know what the URL is so that it can be viewed and judged.

There are 38 prizes to be won, with the Grand Prize being an iPhone 12 (64GB); 2 second prizes of Samsung 55-inch 4K LED TV; and 2 third prizes of Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer Iron. Consolation Prizes are TT Racing Maxx Gaming Chairs, Bose Quiet Comfort 35 Wireless Headphones, Kingston HyperX Gaming Keyboard, Philips Portable Car Air Sanitizer, and customized Touch’nGo cards with RM100 pre-loaded. Additionally, everyone visits the showroom will receive a free Safety Kit (which stocks last).

Those who plan to buy a new Toyota vehicle can enjoy low instalments with Toyota EZ Beli. If they are government employees, UMWT has the Jom Drive program (in collaboration with Toyota Capital Malaysia) with special benefits and a selection of financial plans. Applications (with supporting documents) will be hassle-free and processed speedily so that they can enjoy their new Toyota within a short time.

Loyal customers not forgotten
“Our loyal customers who have supported the brand for more than 5 decades are also not forgotten. We now have the new Toyota Loyal-T program with better service and bigger rewards,” Mr. Ravindran added. “The program makes use of the Toyota Drive mobile app for convenience and ease of communicating with UMWT.”

With business activities now normalizing, UMWT has been busy preparing for an exciting future when Hybrid Electric Technology is introduced with Toyota models assembled locally. These new models will have more efficient powertrains with less emissions and quieter running.

*Locally-assembled hybrid models coming soon.*

“Toyota Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) are at their most advanced today, and are the immediate and economical solution for mass market production and sale in terms of reduced CO₂ emissions, practical usage, and price acceptance by customers. We are absolutely positive that the HEV is the most accessible and realistic choice for Malaysian customers in terms of practicality and infrastructure, with an enormous potential in Malaysia,” said Akio Takeyama, Deputy Chairman of UMW Toyota Motor.

UMW Toyota Motor introduces Toyota Synergised Mobility to present a new aspect of the brand

Vaccination does not make you immune to COVID-19 infection. You can still get infected and not show symptoms but you could spread the coronavirus to others. Do not stop taking protective measures such as wearing a facemask, washing hands frequently and social distancing.

All-New Land Rover Defender to be launched in Malaysia on October 21

The Defender name has a long history in Malaysia, having been introduced as part of the Land Rover range in the early 1980s. Its shape followed the original iconic design that is recognisable all over the world and to this day, it is still highly regarded for its capabilities and toughness.

The Defender ceased production 4 years ago but Land Rover was working on a successor and launched it in 2019. With the COVID-19 pandemic having disrupted activities all over the world and even shutting down factories, exports of the New Defender have been slower than usual but it will be launched in Malaysia very soon.

Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia (JLRM) has confirmed that the launch will take place on the morning of October 21 online as well as at Sime Darby Motors City in Ara Damansara, Selangor. To view online, visit Land Rover Malaysia’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/landrovermalaysia.

Long wheelbase, 2 engine choices
The company has confirmed that the New Defender – which won the 2021 World Car Design of the Year as well as the Women’s World Car of the Year awards – will be offered in the Defender 110 version which is the longer of the two available. This is a 5-door bodystyle and will come with a choice of two powertrains – 2-litres with 300 ps and 2-litres with 400 ps, the latter with a mild hybrid system. Needless to say, as with all Land Rovers, there is permanent 4-wheel drive, while the transmission will be automatic.

The New Defender has Land Rover’s purpose-engineered D7x (‘x’ for extreme) architecture which uses lightweight aluminium monocoque construction. Aluminium has been a key feature of Land Rovers since the start in 1948 and with new technology, the body structure is also the stiffest to date – and very corrosion-resistant, of course.

High-tech features
JLRM has included many advanced features with the vehicle such as a 3D Surround Camera which includes the innovative ClearSight Ground View that provides the driver with a view of the ground ahead. The Electronic Air Suspension also has Adaptive Dynamics that can optimise performance, especially offroad, as the adaptive dampers monitor body movements up to 500 times per second.

Being a SUV, the New Defender should have not problems crossing difficult terrain as well as water. It can cross flooded stretches that are up to 900 mm deep and has a Wade Program that raises the vehicle. Wade Sensing uses ultrasonic sensors in the door mirrors to alert the driver visually and audibly if water approaches the vehicle’s maximum wading depth.

More information and pricing will be provided at launch time but interested parties can visit Jaguar Land Rover showrooms nationwide to place bookings. The locations of showrooms can be found at www.landrover.com.my.

Land Rover Defender - No Time to Die — *You will be able to see the New Defender in action in the latest James Bond movie, ‘No Time to Die’.*

Land Rover Defender is 2021 Women’s World Car of the Year

Your new Mitsubishi vehicle can now be delivered right to your home

As mentioned earlier by the CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM), customers can now have their new Mitsubishi vehicle delivered to their doorstep. The company’s new Home Delivery Service has been launched and is presently available within the Klang Valley region, with other regions to follow in the near future.

Only for online customers
The service is only for those customers who have booked their new vehicle (and it is registered) using the Mitsubishi Online Showroom. They need not worry about the risk of vehicle damage while being sent to their homes as it will not be driven and will be transported on a car-carrier.

From now till December 31, 2021, customers who book a Mitsubishi Triton online and after completion of registration will receive a complimentary limited edition North Face jacket. They should use the promo code 4SUREBELI when making their booking.

Another initiative for customers
The Home Delivery Service is a follow-up to MMM’s initiative to provide an online shopping facility to customers. The company was among the earliest to offer such a facility as the COVID-19 pandemic started and restrictions to movements began. With the Mitsubishi Online Showroom, customers do not need to go to the showroom to obtain more information and to view the vehicles. They can also request for a test-drive and additionally, begin the purchase process from their home or office by using Booking Assist to place a booking.

*Customers can also use Mitsubishi Motors Online to request for a test-drive and a vehicle will be brought to their home or office.*

“As Malaysia prepares to transition from the COVID-19 pandemic to the endemic phase, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia makes an effort to ensure that our digital services are improved for customer’s safety and convenience. We want to provide an option for customers to shop online, offering something unorthodox to car ownership. We offer a one-stop digital service from viewing the car 360’ via the virtual showroom, booking a Test Drive 2U, finalizing the sales process online such as Booking, as well as Trade-In and having the new car delivered right to their doorstep,” said Tomoyuki Shinnishi, CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia.

Visit www.mitsubishi-motors.com.my to know more about Mitsubishi vehicles and the locations of dealers nationwide.

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia improves functionality of MITSUBISHI CONNECT MY app

F1/Round 16: Highlights & Provisional Results For 2021 Turkish Grand Prix

Rain was falling as the cars lined up, Valtteri Bottas in front with Max Verstappen alongside and the fastest driver in qualifying – Lewis Hamilton – down in 11th spot as he had to take a grid penalty for the engine component change. The wet conditions were expected to remain throughout the race.

The Mercedes-AMG driver got off to a good start, and Verstappen slotted behind in his spray. Not surprisingly, there was some drama as Alpine’s Fernando Alonso, Williams Racing Nicholas Latifi and Haas F1’s Mick Schumacher went into spins on the wet track. But Hamilton was quick to slice through traffic within the first few corners and started the second lap to positions higher. He was then held at ninth place for 6 laps as Scuderia AlphaTauri’s Yuki Tsunoda proved difficult to get past.

In third was Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc while Verstappen’s team mate Sergio Perez was shadowing him and waiting for an opportunity to get forward to cover Verstappen. Track temperatures were low due to the rain and as the drivers tried to get the tyres warmer, the racing was still a bit tricky.

On lap 9, the first penalty of the race was imposed on Pierre Gasly. It was a 5-second time penalty for having bumped Alonso in a spin at the start. However, Alonso also got a 5-second penalty as well as he had later bumped in Schumacher.

Within 15 laps, Hamilton had moved from eleventh at the start to fifth and the difficult part would start – ahead were Perez and Leclerc. Meanwhile, Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz, who had started from the back due to an engine change penalty, had moved up to ninth place after 18 laps. McLaren’s Daniel Ricciardo was less successful and stuck at sixteenth place for some time. He would be the first driver to pit on lap 24.

At the halfway point of the race, it was still Bottas leading Verstappen and the gap was around 4 seconds. Leclerc was about 3 seconds behind the Dutchman but Perez was still some distance away with a gap of over 10 seconds. The prospect of more rain was mentioned in the pits.

Lap 36 saw Hamilton close in on the Red Bull driver and for a few corners, the two drivers were doing close-up duels. As with Tsunoda, Hamilton’s attempts to overtake keep being frustrated by the Mexican driver. And then Perez headed for the pits on lap 37, letting Hamilton through to start chasing Verstappen. Bottas also came in at around the same time, his lead taken by Leclerc. The Mercedes-AMG driver was able to return to the race just ahead of Verstappen.

On lap 42, Hamilton was asked to come in but he was reluctant to do so, and remained on the track. Leclerc too was thinking that he might trey to stay with the tyres all the way till the end of the race. Aston Martin COGNIZANT’s Sebastian Vettel had come in and taken the chance on intermediates which proved to be a very bad decision, dropping him totally out of contention.

Bottas started to close in on Leclerc while Verstappen was facing steering problems. With 10 laps remaining, the Mercedes-AMG finally regained the lead. Leclerc was displaced to fourth as Hamilton zipped past him but there was still a 6-second gap with Verstappen. The pressure was on the Red Bull driver who was aiming for the Finn ahead but also having to keep an eye on his team mate in the mirror.

To be on the safe side, Hamilton decided to come in to change tyres with 7 laps remaining. His quick stop allowed him to return behind Perez and Leclerc. He had fresh tyres and could put in maximum effort all the way to the finish so the 5-second gap was nothing. But even as Hamilton closed in on Perez, he put in a spurt and overtook Leclerc, which was not what the Mercedes-AMG driver was expecting. It didn’t help that Scuderia Alphatauri’s Pierre Gasly had also closed in and was watching for an opening past. Only 3 laps remained.

In the final two laps, Bottas had a comfortable 10-second lead over Verstappen, enough for him to concentrate on picking up an extra point by going for the fastest lap just before he took the chequered flag to win the Turkish Grand Prix. It was his tenth win on Formula 1. Strange how, having been confirmed that he will leave the team at the end of this season, his fortunes are getting better.