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BMW Malaysia has formally introduced the New BMW 218 Gran Coupe Sport to its showroom floors across the country, following its recent unveiling at MY BMW World 2025. Priced at RM218,800 (on-the-road, without insurance), this latest iteration of the compact four-door coupé marks a bold step forward in the evolution of the 2 Series, combining contemporary styling, cutting-edge technology, and refined driving dynamics aimed at delivering a premium yet personalised experience.

The New BMW 218 Gran Coupé Sport builds upon the legacy of its 2020 predecessor by offering a more expressive exterior and a comprehensively upgraded interior, now centred around a fully digital cockpit. It features a completely reengineered chassis, promising a more immersive and responsive drive tailored for the demands of the modern motorist. Designed to appeal to a new generation of BMW owners, it marries everyday practicality with the brand’s characteristic sporting DNA.

In conjunction with the model’s launch, BMW Group Malaysia reaffirmed its commitment to redefining premium ownership through its “Relax. We Care.” initiative. This comprehensive aftersales programme encompasses a 360-degree suite of services designed to ensure uninterrupted driving pleasure and peace of mind for all BMW owners. Through the BMW Service Promise, customers benefit from expert maintenance and transparent servicing protocols, supported by a dedicated customer care team.

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Porsche has unveiled three new additions to its 911 family, introducing the latest Carrera 4S in both coupé and cabriolet forms, alongside the Targa 4S. Positioned just below the high-performance GTS variants, the new models double the all-wheel-drive options available in the current 911 range, bringing the total to six. These additions not only enhance driving dynamics but also provide expanded standard equipment and greater customisation opportunities for enthusiasts.

The choice of all-wheel-drive models remains popular among Porsche buyers, particularly in the ‘S’ segment, where around half opt for the added traction benefits. Designed to inspire confidence in varying weather conditions and on demanding roads, the new 911 all-wheel-drive models retain a rear-biased layout. Porsche Traction Management (PTM) adjusts torque distribution as needed, sending more power to the front axle to maintain stability. The system continues to use an electromechanically controlled, water-cooled clutch assembly in the front differential, though the gear ratio has been slightly revised. Notably, the Targa body style remains exclusive to the all-wheel-drive configuration.

Porsche 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet

Beneath the surface, the new models share a reworked powertrain first seen in the updated Carrera S. The 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged flat-six engine now produces 480PS, delivering 30PS more than its predecessor. This increase is attributed to an improved intercooler setup, drawing inspiration from the 911 Turbo, which enables enhanced thermal efficiency and throttle response. Power is channelled to all four wheels via Porsche’s eight-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission.

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UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive and sustainable mobility as the Premier Mobility Partner of the inaugural Nikkei Forum Medini Johor 2025, held from 18 to 19 June in Medini, Johor. The landmark event brought together over 500 key figures from politics, business, and policy to discuss cross-border cooperation, innovation, and economic sustainability across Asia.

Co-hosted by Iskandar Investment Berhad (IIB) and Japan’s Nikkei Inc., the two-day forum marked the first of its kind in Johor. It underscored the southern state’s rising influence as a hub for innovation and ASEAN connectivity. Among the dignitaries in attendance were Malaysia’s Prime Minister, YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Johor’s Chief Minister, YAB Dato’ Onn Hafiz Ghazi, and the Ambassador of Japan to Malaysia, H.E. Shikata Noriyuki.

Toyota Mirai Showcases Hydrogen Innovation

Taking centre stage at the forum was Toyota’s flagship hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV), the Toyota Mirai, displayed prominently at the entrance. The vehicle served as a powerful symbol of the brand’s forward-looking vision for zero-emission mobility. It also spurred active discussions on the potential of hydrogen technology in decarbonising cross-border transport, enabling emission-free freight corridors, and supporting clean logistics in future Special Economic Zones (SEZs).

With the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) initiative gaining momentum, Toyota’s hydrogen solutions were positioned as a scalable and practical pathway to achieving joint climate and infrastructure goals between Malaysia and Singapore.

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Maranello has officially introduced the Ferrari Amalfi, the latest addition to its prestigious line-up and the successor to the Ferrari Roma. This new front-mid-engine V8 2+ coupé reimagines modern sportiness with an emphasis on performance, versatility, and design sophistication, marking a new chapter in Ferrari’s legacy of grand tourers.

The Amalfi is powered by the newest iteration of Ferrari’s acclaimed 3,855 cc twin-turbo V8 from the F154 engine family, a power unit that holds the distinction of being one of the most awarded in recent automotive history. In this latest configuration, the engine produces 631hp at 7,500 rpm, with a redline at 7,600 rpm. This heightened performance is achieved through meticulous tuning, including an advanced turbo management system that independently regulates each turbocharger’s speed, now capable of spinning up to 171,000 rpm.

Precision is further enhanced with dedicated pressure sensors on each cylinder bank and a new engine control unit, shared with other top-tier models such as the 296 GTB, Purosangue, and 12Cilindri.

Power is delivered through an eight-speed dual-clutch oil-bath transmission, originally introduced with the SF90 Stradale. The transmission has been refined for the Amalfi, integrating a more powerful control unit and deeper coordination with the engine, which results in quicker, smoother gear changes.

Performance figures underscore Ferrari’s ambition for the model: 0 to 100km/h in 3.3 seconds, 0 to 200km/h in 9.0 seconds, and a class-leading power-to-weight ratio of 2.29kg/hp. To complement the raw power, the driving dynamics have been significantly improved through a recalibrated steering box, a brake-by-wire system, and the ABS Evo controller. Aerodynamic efficiency is enhanced by an integrated rear active wing, which adjusts to maintain stability and maximise performance across all drive modes.

Engine acoustics were not overlooked. Engineers developed a new silencer layout that complies with stringent global noise regulations while preserving the distinctive Ferrari exhaust note.

Aesthetically, the Ferrari Amalfi takes the design language first introduced with the Roma and evolves it into something more sculptural and assertive. Created under the direction of Flavio Manzoni at the Ferrari Styling Centre, the exterior is built around a sleek, monolithic form with minimal surface interruptions. Angular contours and geometric cuts along the bodywork highlight its dynamic proportions. The front fascia dispenses with a traditional grille, replaced by a floating body-coloured wing that hovers above a dark recess housing sensors and headlamps, while the lower splitter adds to the SUV’s broad and athletic stance.

The rear is equally dramatic, with a pronounced character line that envelops the back of the car, tapering into a clean, compact tail. The tail lights are integrated into sharp graphic cuts, reminiscent of classic Ferraris, and a large functional diffuser underlines the vehicle’s performance credentials. The rear windscreen flows seamlessly into the spoiler, forming a distinct silhouette that reinforces the car’s identity. A debut colour, Verde Costiera—an iridescent teal inspired by the Amalfi coast—emphasises the muscular bodywork and brings a new vibrancy to the line-up.

The Amalfi rides on 20-inch alloy wheels that reflect its assertive stance without compromising comfort. Tyres measure 245/35 R20 at the front and 285/35 R20 at the rear. Both Pirelli P ZERO and Bridgestone Potenza Sport have partnered with Ferrari to develop rubber optimised specifically for the model.

Inside, the dual-cockpit layout offers a driver-focused, yet passenger-conscious experience. The interior is segmented into two distinct zones, visually linked through the dashboard, centre console, and door panels. The design avoids unnecessary ornamentation in favour of a cleaner, contemporary form. Premium materials are used throughout, while technological elements are integrated to preserve a sense of elegance and focus.

A first for Ferrari, the dashboard fuses the instrument panel and air vents into a single block. The floating centre tunnel, machined from a solid aluminium billet, houses the gear selector gate, a wireless charging pad, the ignition key slot, and essential controls. Door grips are concealed within wing-shaped panel sections, and speaker grilles are made from perforated aluminium for a refined touch.

Interior colour options mirror the vehicle’s athletic intent. The show car features a dramatic Verde Bellagio hue, which enhances the dynamic nature of the design. Optional comfort seats are available in three sizes and come equipped with ten inflatable chambers to provide massage functions across five programmes and three intensity levels, along with ventilation for both seat and backrest.

For audiophiles, the optional Burmester® Premium Audio System raises the in-cabin experience. With 14 speakers and 1,200 watts of output, the system delivers pristine sound reproduction. Ring radiator tweeters handle high frequencies, while a choice of three audio presets enables personalisation of the sound environment. The aesthetic integration of the system matches the car’s overall design refinement, combining form and function in equal measure.

The Ferrari Amalfi, through its blend of cutting-edge technology, heritage design language, and versatile performance, represents a contemporary reimagining of the grand tourer. With this launch, Ferrari signals its continued evolution while remaining deeply rooted in the marque’s defining spirit of elegance and performance.

Proton New Energy Technology Sdn Bhd (PRO-NET), a subsidiary of Proton, has officially introduced new variants of the Proton e.MAS 7, Malaysia’s best-selling electric vehicle, now enhanced with a host of upgrades driven by customer feedback. The latest iteration features new colour options, expanded in-car technology via an over-the-air (OTA) software update, and a revised sales policy aimed at improving the overall electric vehicle ownership experience.

The latest OTA update brings meaningful advancements to the e.MAS 7, introducing support for Apple CarPlay—both wired and wireless—alongside the integration of additional third-party applications. Among the new apps now supported through the Flyme Auto operating system are Zoom for Cars, izi.TRAVEL, and the Vivaldi Browser, offering a more connected and intuitive driving environment. Although Apple users can now enjoy seamless integration, Android Auto compatibility is expected to roll out later in the year.

This update also enhances the EV’s safety and personalisation features. One key upgrade includes an expanded selection of tones for the low-speed pedestrian alert system. In addition to the Classical setting, two new sound profiles—Galactic Note and Space Walk—have been added, allowing drivers to select the audio cue that best suits their environment or taste. Once chosen, the preferred sound will be saved and activated each time the vehicle starts.

As part of the vehicle refresh, PRO-NET has introduced a striking new exterior colour, Obsidian Black, catering to customer demand for a more timeless and premium appearance. The update also includes the debut of an exclusive Alabaster White interior, available solely on the Quartz Rose and Turquoise Green Premium variants. Each of these configurations will be limited to just 250 units, underlining Proton’s focus on offering a more tailored and luxurious experience.

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Hyundai Motor Malaysia has officially launched the all-new Hyundai Santa Fe, following a preview last month. The latest iteration of the brand’s D/E-segment SUV makes a commanding entrance with a striking, boxy silhouette and a host of modern enhancements, underscoring Hyundai’s ambition to redefine the premium SUV experience for Malaysian drivers.

The Santa Fe’s redesigned exterior introduces a more upright and muscular profile. A wide stance, high-set bonnet and flared fenders lend it a rugged appeal, while sophisticated design elements such as the dark chrome-finished grille, a hidden rear wiper, and the signature H-shaped LED lighting give it a futuristic edge. The SUV’s bold styling is matched by a practical mindset, as seen in the new wider tailgate opening that simplifies loading and unloading—an advantage well-suited for families and adventure-seekers alike.

Hyundai has tailored the Santa Fe’s powertrain offerings to appeal to a wide spectrum of drivers, launching three distinct variants in the local market. The Prime and Prestige trims feature hybrid powertrains built around a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and driving the front wheels, these variants generate 235PS at 5,500 rpm and 367Nm of torque between 1,000 and 4,000 rpm. This setup delivers a balanced blend of efficiency and performance, making it ideal for daily commutes and long-distance travel.

At the top of the range is the Calligraphy variant, which takes performance up a notch with a 2.5-litre turbocharged engine. Producing 281PS at 5,800 rpm and 422Nm of torque from 1,700 to 4,000 rpm, it offers a more dynamic driving experience. This variant comes equipped with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission and features all-wheel drive as standard. Designed as a 6-seater configuration, the Calligraphy model combines athletic performance with an added layer of comfort and luxury, aimed at discerning buyers who prioritise refinement alongside capability.

In terms of size, the new Santa Fe is designed to command attention on the road while providing generous interior space. Measuring 4,830 mm in length and 1,900 mm in width, it sits on a 2,815 mm wheelbase. While the Prime and Prestige variants stand at 1,770 mm in height, the Calligraphy reaches a slightly taller 1,780 mm. Despite its sizeable proportions, the new Santa Fe remains more compact than some of its key rivals, such as the Ford Everest Wildtrak, making it easier to manoeuvre in urban settings while retaining a strong visual presence.

At the heart of the cabin is a panoramic curved display that seamlessly integrates a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with the infotainment system, delivering a modern and intuitive user experience.

The H-shaped dashboard and air vent design enhance the sense of openness while providing a distinctive visual symmetry. In a segment-first move, the Santa Fe introduces a UV-C sanitiser tray, ensuring everyday hygiene and added peace of mind. It is also the first Hyundai model to feature a dual wireless charging system, offering enhanced convenience for front-seat occupants.

The bilateral multi-console design allows easy access to storage from both the front and rear, adding to overall cabin practicality. The SUV is offered in both 6- and 7-seater configurations, with the second-row Fold & Dive function enabling flexible use of interior space. For added comfort, the 6-seater Calligraphy variant includes a second-row relaxation mode, designed to elevate long-distance travel.

Premium finishes, ambient lighting, and improved cargo accessibility through a widened tailgate complete the Santa Fe’s thoughtfully designed and upscale interior.

For the pricing, the HEV Prime variant is priced at RM225,000, the HEV Prestige at RM245,000 and the 2.5T Calligraphy at RM270,000.

For all customers, the SUV comes with an eight-year, 160,000km vehicle warranty. Exclusive for the first 100 customers is an eight-time free service for parts and labour.

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