Apple iPhone 15 users are encountering issues with wireless charging in BMW cars, causing NFC (Near Field Communication) chip failures. Users affected by this problem have reported losing the ability to use Apple Pay. The only available solution, according to users, is to replace the iPhone entirely. Apple has now acknowledged the issue in both BMW models and one Toyota model.
Apple has sent an internal memo to authorised service providers, confirming that all versions of the iPhone 15 are susceptible to this issue. However, the company has not provided a detailed explanation of why the error occurs or the specific steps it will take to resolve the problem. Apple plans to release a software update later this year to address the issue.
Reports suggest that even brief periods of wireless charging in a BMW could lead to NFC chip damage in the iPhone 15. While it initially appeared to be an issue with BMW models, further investigation suggests that the problem is related to the iPhone 15 itself, not the cars. Android users have not reported similar issues, and users with previous-generation iPhones appear to be unaffected.
Owners of Toyota MKV Supra models, which are built in partnership with BMW and share the same type of wireless charger, may also encounter this issue, according to the Apple memo.
Apple has not yet provided a comprehensive explanation for the NFC chip failure associated with wireless charging in BMW cars, leaving users awaiting the forthcoming software update to address the problem.
Kia has revealed a mid-cycle facelift for the K5 sedan, formerly known as the Optima. While crossovers continue to dominate the market, Kia is committed to updating its sedans, despite the SUV craze.
This update is for the domestic version currently available in South Korea, but the global model is expected to be nearly identical. The K5 has received mild changes, with redesigned headlights and taillights following a trend seen in recent Kia EVs. A new front bumper with larger faux air vents adds a touch of sportiness.
The rear of the K5 gets new exhaust finishers, a notable change on non-GT-Line models. The updated K5 also offers new alloy wheel designs, available in sizes ranging from 16 to 19 inches, including a predominantly black version without the usual metallic accents. Two new body colors, Wolf Gray and Moonscape Matte Gray, join the existing palette.
The cabin sees more significant updates, with the dashboard revised to accommodate two curved screens. The gear lever has been replaced with a small rotary selector, and a fingerprint sensor has been added to the lower center console. The 2025 K5 also features high-resolution front and rear cameras capable of recording and saving footage. Other changes include an enhanced head-up display, additional sound-deadening materials, and increased support for over-the-air updates.
The Kia K5 offers several engine options, including a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre petrol engine producing 160hp, a turbocharged 1.6-litre unit with 180hp, a 2.0-litre LPI (Liquid Propane Injection) engine rated at 146hp, and a 2.0-litre hybrid with 152hp from the combustion engine and an additional 52hp from the electric motor.
Pricing for the updated K5 starts at 27,840,000 won, which is approximately RM98,000. While crossovers dominate the market, Kia remains committed to its sedans, with the K5 receiving a mild refresh to keep it competitive in the midsize sedan segment.
Suzuki Cars Malaysia has unveiled the Suzuki Swift Silver Edition, a special model designed to cater to the needs of the Malaysian market. The launch of this model took place during the grand opening of the first Suzuki 3S Centre in Johor.
The Suzuki Swift Silver Edition, imported exclusively from Japan as a CBU (Completely Built-Up) variant, features an elegant exterior design with a Premium Metallic Silver colour. It is equipped with a 1.4L BOOSTERJET engine paired with a responsive 6-speed automatic transmission, delivering an impressive performance of 140hp and 230Nm of torque at 2,500rpm. Built on the advanced HEARTECT platform, this model places a strong emphasis on safety with enhanced underbody rigidity, ensuring a safe and enjoyable driving experience.
The exterior design retains the iconic Swift look, with a large grille featuring red accents, a stylish black hood cover, and side decals. The sporty silhouette is further enhanced with hidden rear door handles, concealed pillars, a rear spoiler, and side mirror covers coated with carbon fibre. To enhance its sporty appeal, an “Akrapovic” carbon fibre exhaust system has been incorporated at the rear.
Inside the Suzuki Swift Silver Edition, you’ll find a sporty ambience with carbon fibre touches adorning the instrument panel, air conditioning switches, and door trim. The car comes equipped with a 10″ Soundstream entertainment system that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, enhancing the overall driving experience.
The Suzuki Swift Silver Edition offers an enjoyable and dynamic driving experience, thanks to an 80kg reduction in curb weight compared to its predecessor. This lightweight design provides quick and efficient handling, embodying the essence of a true hot hatchback. With an impressive torque-to-weight ratio of approximately 4.2 kg/Nm, the Suzuki Swift solidifies its position as a formidable contender in the hot hatchback segment.
The Suzuki Swift Silver Edition seamlessly combines sporty aesthetics with premium craftsmanship, delivering a unique and enjoyable driving experience. Priced at RM 145,900.00 (before insurance), the Suzuki Swift is ready to captivate automotive enthusiasts and fans across Malaysia. This new edition demonstrates Suzuki’s commitment to delivering models tailored to the Malaysian market’s preferences and requirements.
Perodua has reported a remarkable 28.3% increase in sales for the third quarter of 2023, compared to the same period in 2022. In this quarter, Perodua sold 88,537 units, a substantial growth from the 69,011 units sold during the third quarter of 2022.
This surge in sales can be attributed to Perodua’s efforts to enhance production operational efficiency. In the third quarter of 2023, Perodua manufactured a total of 91,528 units, marking an impressive increase of 21.7% when compared to the 75,196 units produced during the same period in 2022.
The third quarter of 2023 marked the beginning of an initiative to boost the company’s monthly production to over 30,000 units per month. This became possible as supplies of raw materials and parts could finally meet the rising demand.
For the year-to-date figures, Perodua has produced 245,341 units as of September 2023. This represents a substantial 18.6% increase from the 206,837 units produced during the same period in the previous year. This growth showcases the potential of the Malaysian automotive ecosystem, as it continues to enhance economies of scale without compromising quality and cost efficiency.
In terms of year-to-date registrations, Perodua reported 233,227 units for the first nine months of 2023, compared to 196,354 units for the same period in the previous year. Among these registered units, the most popular Perodua model during this period was the Perodua Bezza, followed by the Perodua Axia and the Perodua Myvi.
Perodua is on track to achieve its registration target of 314,000 units for this year. In September 2023, the company registered 28,995 units, marking a 17.7% increase compared to the same month in 2022. In terms of production, Perodua manufactured 31,447 cars in September 2023, reflecting a 8.2% increase from the 29,077 units produced in September 2022.
The Kia EV6 GT has been honoured as one of TIME’s Best Inventions of 2023 in the Transportation category. This annual list, which has been a prestigious recognition for over two decades, highlights 200 exceptional innovations, including products and concepts, that TIME editors consider to be “changing our lives.”
The Kia EV6 GT has garnered acclaim for its unique blend of Kia’s “Opposites United” design philosophy, which prioritizes sustainable mobility, and its exceptional supercar-level power and performance. Steven Center, COO & EVP of Kia America, expressed his pride in this achievement and the vehicle’s status as the most powerful production car ever built by Kia. He also noted that Kia America was the only automotive company included in the TIME100 List of Most Influential Companies for 2023.
Maserati has introduced the MC20 Cielo Spyder to the Malaysian market, adding an open-top variant to its lineup. The MC20 Cielo Spyder made its global debut in 2022, following the launch of the MC20 supercar in 2020. The name ‘Cielo’ translates to ‘sky’ in Italian, emphasising the design’s focus on offering a connection to the elements. MC stands for Maserati Corse (‘Racing’); 20 refers to 2020, the year that began the brand’s new era.
One of the standout features of the MC20 Cielo Spyder is its powered roof mechanism, allowing the driver to fold the roof into a storage area at the rear in 12 seconds. The roof is designed to offer best-in-class thermal insulation.
The open-top experience is further enhanced by electrochromic ‘smart glass’ technology. With the press of a button, this glass can transition from opaque to clear or vice versa. This technology, known as Polymer-Dispersed Liquid Crystal (PDLC), is used in the sunroof to provide versatile transparency control using electrical charges. It’s commonly found in high-end vehicles for sunroof and rearview mirror applications.
For audiophiles, the MC20 Cielo Spyder offers an optional High Premium Sonus Faber audio system, optimised for the spyder’s cabin, which can be open at times. The 12 speakers are strategically positioned to deliver exceptional sound quality.
Much like the MC20 supercar, the MC20 Cielo Spyder underwent extensive wind tunnel testing to refine its minimalist design and optimise aerodynamic efficiency. The car features butterfly doors, which open upwards to facilitate ease of entry and exit, even with the car’s low floor.
Under the hood, the MC20 Cielo Spyder boasts the Maserati-patented 90-degree V6 Nettuno twin-turbo petrol engine with the Twin Combustion Chamber. This innovative approach, borrowed from Formula 1, enhances combustion efficiency with a pre-combustion chamber equipped with twin spark plugs. Although supplied by Ferrari, the engine has been further developed by Maserati’s engineers and manufactured in-house.
The 3.0-litre engine produces 630bhp and 730Nm of torque, which is sent to the rear wheels through an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. Both the MC20 and the MC20 Cielo Spyder utilise a carbon-fibre monocoque tub with a lightweight carbon-fibre and aluminium body shell. This platform is designed to be adaptable for future electrification without requiring substantial structural modifications.
There are several more Active Safety Systems. In addition to the parking sensors, rear-view camera, and blind spot monitoring that have been standard on the MC20 since the MY22, the new spyder adds a new 360° camera, automated emergency braking, and traffic sign information.
MC20 Cielo’s launch version features a new three-layer metallic colour known as Acquamarina, available as part of the Maserati Fuoriserie customisation programme. A colour that interacts with light, revealing itself in a surprising way. The base is a pastel grey inspired by racing, reminiscent of the MC20’s sporty DNA, accompanied by an iridescent aquamarine mica that enlivens the hue and makes it exceptional.
The Maserati MC20 Cielo is priced from RM1,228,000.00 before local duties and taxes, customisation options, and insurance. The price includes 3 years of Standard Warranty coverage with no mileage restriction plus a Free maintenance program of 3 years/60,000km whichever comes first (Inclusive of *Maserati Premium Service Plus of 3 Years /60,000km).
