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Ford Malaysia Introduces Podcast Series “Built for Life” for Ranger Enthusiasts

Ford Malaysia, in collaboration with Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC), is set to launch a unique automotive podcast series titled “Ford Malaysia: Built for Life.” This pioneering podcast, available on Spotify starting January 28, 2024, distinguishes itself by transcending traditional automotive narratives, focusing on the human aspect of the Ford Ranger lifestyle.

Unlike conventional content centred on technical specifications, the “Ford Malaysia: Built for Life” podcast adopts an engaging storytelling format. Through heartfelt anecdotes, interviews, and shared experiences, the podcast explores the stories and journeys of Ford Ranger owners and the vibrant Ranger community, showcasing the iconic truck’s role as a companion in work, family, and leisure.

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Dodge Teases Next-Gen Charger With Social Media Photos

Dodge has surprised enthusiasts by releasing several photos on its social media accounts showcasing the next-generation Charger. Accompanied by a message stating “No cameras or recording devices permitted. Pre-production model shown. Available late 2024,” the images reveal a grey version of the car in a parking lot, featuring styling reminiscent of the Dodge Charger Daytona SRT concept introduced in 2022.

The production-intent Charger includes an illuminated Fratzog logo positioned between its headlights, flanking the “R-Wing,” inspired by the front opening on the 2022 Charger Daytona concept. The photos also provide glimpses of the new Charger’s body sides, staggered-width tires, and a potential charge port or petrol-tank filler door on the driver’s side rear fender.

While Dodge has confirmed the new Charger will incorporate an electric powertrain, as indicated by the Daytona SRT concept with all-wheel drive and an 800-volt architecture, reports are suggesting the model will also be available with a petrol engine. The rumoured powerplant is the Hurricane twin-turbo 3.0-litre inline-six, offering a hybrid powertrain option for the iconic muscle car. The upcoming Charger is expected to be available for purchase in late 2024.

Liberty Walk Unveils Crazy Widebody Lamborghini Countach

Japanese tuner Liberty Walk has presented its widebody modification for the classic Lamborghini Countach at the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon, following its widebody Ferrari F40 project from the previous year. The customisation features extensive modifications, aiming to enhance the aggressive and bold appearance of the ’80s icon.

The front end of the modified Countach showcases a prominent front splitter and a lower fascia with a rectangular mesh covering three openings, creating a boxy look. Canards on the corners integrate into the widened fender flare, establishing a continuous line from the nose to the wheel well. The sides feature broader lower sills connecting the widened fenders, and an additional opening is introduced ahead of the rear wheels.

Liberty Walk’s design includes body-colour vertical strakes in the vents on the upper portion of the tail, indicating that this modification is based on the 25th Anniversary Countach. The classic supercar rides on dark-coloured, deep-dish Rohana Forged wheels with Y-shaped spokes and Toyo tires. The tuner has also replaced the factory wing with a larger fixture beneath the rear bumper, emphasising a more motorsport-inspired aesthetic.

The widebody modification for the Lamborghini Countach is expected to evoke mixed opinions among enthusiasts, with some appreciating the aggressive look and others remaining purists who might not favour such extensive alterations to the iconic design. While Liberty Walk has not disclosed pricing details on its website, the company seems open to creating more of these body kits for customers interested in giving their Lamborghini Countach a distinctive and daring appearance.

Honda Civic RS Prototype: Manual Gearbox, Stealth Appearance

Honda has showcased the 2024 Honda Civic RS Prototype at the Tokyo Auto Salon, providing a preview of a sporty trim for the hatchback featuring a manual gearbox. This variant aims to fill the gap between the standard versions and the high-performance Civic Type R, offering Japanese buyers a more engaging driving experience.

The Civic RS Prototype comes with a striking full-black livery, contributing to its stealthy and sporty appearance. The redesigned front bumper with sharper surfacing and slimmer side intakes stands out, complemented by red RS emblems on both ends for added contrast against the black paint. While maintaining the bodywork and alloy wheels from the standard Civic Hatchback, the visual enhancements give the new trim a softer, Type R-inspired look.

In the US market, the Honda Civic is already available with a six-speed manual gearbox, but Japanese customers are currently limited to the CVT automatic transmission. In our market, we have the 1.5L turbocharged RS with the CVT and the 2.0L e:HEV RS with an e-CVT. However, Honda has announced that the manual-equipped Civic RS will launch in Japan in the fall of 2024.

While the company has not provided details about the powertrain, it is likely to feature the non-electrified turbocharged 1.5-litre gasoline engine. Additionally, Honda has hinted at “further refinements to the joy of driving,” suggesting a revised chassis setup to complement the sportier aesthetics.

The Japanese-spec Civic RS is expected to align with the US-spec Civic Si in terms of performance features. The US model includes a limited-slip differential, rev-matching technology, stiffer springs, revised dampers, thicker stabiliser bars, larger brakes, and a turbocharged 1.5-litre engine producing 200hp. The introduction of the manual-equipped Civic RS in Japan reflects Honda’s commitment to offering diverse options for driving enthusiasts.

Lexus Unveils Limited Edition RZ 450e F Sport Performance

Lexus has introduced the RZ 450e F Sport Performance, a special edition electric crossover, at the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon. Limited to 100 units for sale exclusively in Japan, this model brings a sporty aesthetic to the RZ lineup. While the F Sport Performance maintains the standard power figures of the RZ 450e, it focuses on improved handling, featuring track-tuned dampers and springs from Toyota’s Shimoyama Technical Centre.

The special edition boasts a distinctive appearance, with 17 new aero parts enhancing its aerodynamic profile. Notable additions include a dual carbon fibre wing setup, with one wing extending from the roof and a second attached to the raked rear hatch. A rear spoiler below the second wing adds a unique touch. The front end receives a carbon fibre splitter with blue accents, complemented by a vented hood. Additional aero elements around the wheels and a specific rear valance complete the exterior enhancements.

To set it apart, the F Sport Performance is finished in a new matte paint colour called Hakugin, described as “white-silver,” inspired by the silent silver world of light and shadow. Blue and black accents contrast against the matte paint, extending to the interior. The cabin features black Ultrasuede seats with blue stitching and various blue trim elements throughout the dashboard and interior.

Pricing for the RZ 450e F Sport Performance is approximately $82,000 (RM381k), and interested buyers in Japan must participate in a lottery system for a chance to purchase one of the 100 units produced. While this special edition is limited to the Japanese market, it showcases Lexus’s commitment to delivering unique and performance-focused models in the electric vehicle segment.

Sepang International Circuit to Raise Rental Rates by Up to 45%

Sepang International Circuit (SIC) has announced a significant increase in rental rates for the Petronas Sepang International Circuit, effective April 1. The FIA grade one circuit, renowned for hosting events like the Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia, will witness rental hikes of up to 45%, emphasising the circuit’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards.

As reported by NST, under the new rate card, weekday day sessions will experience a 27% increase, rising from RM55,000 to RM70,000. Weekend rates for day sessions will see a 32% hike, moving from RM60,500 to RM80,000. Night sessions during weekdays will undergo a 41% increase, from RM55,000 to RM78,000, while weekend night sessions will face the highest surge at 45%, climbing from RM60,500 to RM88,000.

These rates include technical and medical officials, ambulance and fire car services, cleaners, security personnel, and access to relevant facilities. SIC CEO Azhan Shafriman Hanif highlighted that the price adjustment aims to ensure the continued operation of the circuit at the highest standards, supporting ongoing improvements for an enhanced customer experience.

The decision to raise rental rates comes after careful consideration of increasing operational and maintenance costs. SIC emphasises its commitment to facilitating a smooth transition for clients and stakeholders, providing advance notice for transparency and preparation. This adjustment marks the first increase in rental prices since 2013, reflecting the circuit’s dedication to sustaining quality facilities and services in the highly competitive racing environment.