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Mercedes-Benz

CKD AMG? OMG.

No, your eyes don’t deceive you, and you read that right; Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has indeed chalked-up yet another milestone for local-assembly (CKD) with the Mercedes-AMG C 43 and Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 which were both launched at the Sepang International Circuit last night.

Priced at RM408,888 and RM468,888 for the C43 AMG and GLC43 AMG respectively, these “Pure Driving Performance” machines will offer ‘undeniable luxury appeal combined with AMG racing pedigree that the Mercedes-AMG 43 series is renowned for’. Here’s the launch gambit last night, right there at the front straight of SIC (skip to the 2min mark for the cars’ appearance)

“We are ecstatic to announce the launch of the first locally-assembled luxury performance cars in Malaysia – the Mercedes-AMG C 43 and Mercedes-AMG GLC 43. With the introduction of these models, we expand the range of vehicles assembled at our Pekan production plant adding to our existing elegant limousines and premium SUV, the GLCs. With superior power, dynamic handling, aggressive design and luxurious appointment, this incredible AMG 43 pair of automobiles now come with irresistible value to the passionate Mercedes-AMG driver,” said an obviously elated Mark Raine, Vice President Sales & Marketing Passenger Cars, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (below).

More on the Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC – The racetrack limousine: 

The 43-series models from Mercedes-AMG provide the brand’s hallmark emotive appeal and exciting Driving Performance for everyday use. Even at first glance, the characteristic AMG body styling leaves no doubt that this model is part of the Mercedes-AMG model family. The Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC makes it possible for an even broader target audience to experience sports car technology and motorsports flair. The design is based on the AMG Line exterior, augmented by design elements specific to the Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC in high-gloss black and silver chrome plus the “BITURBO 4MATIC” badge on the front wings.

AMG-specific: the 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine

The 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine features technical advances including a modified boost pressure allowing AMG engineers to increase the engine’s power output and torque as well as its dynamism and flexibility to typical AMG levels. With 270 kW (367 hp) and 520 Nm, the V6 engine sets new standards in its segment. The NANOSLIDE® coating of the cylinder liners is also used in the Formula One engines of MERCEDES-AMG PETRONAS. Especially tough and, therefore, wear-resistant, this coating also reduces friction, thereby contributing to higher efficiency. The AMG powerplant can be identified by the red aluminium insert in the engine cover.

The Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC at a glance:

Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC
Displacement 2996 cc
Output 270 kW (367 hp) at 5,500 – 6,000 rpm
Peak torque 520 Nm at 2000-4200 rpm
Fuel consumption
NEDC combined
8.0-7.8 l/100 km
CO2 emissions 183 – 178 g/km
Acceleration
0-100 km/h
4.7 s
Top speed 250 km/h***
Price (OTR without Insurance)

*price is inclusive of GST

RM 408,888

 

More on the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC – A Sports SUV:

The 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine is used in numerous AMG performance models. It delivers 270 kW (367 hp) maximum output plus a maximum torque of 520Nm. The GLC 43 4MATIC sprints from rest to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and its speed is electronically governed at 250 km/h. The newly developed front axle, the taut elastokinematics and the highly precise AMG speed-sensitive sports steering make a substantial contribution to the agile driving experience.

High on power, low on consumption: the AMG 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine: The AMG 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine is capable of producing a powerful output with low consumption and emissions. Installed close to the engine, the two turbochargers are especially spontaneous in their response.

The NANOSLIDE® coating on the cylinder liners was also enhanced in the Mercedes-Benz Formula 1 V6 hybrid turbo engines. Especially tough and, therefore, wear-resistant, this coating also reduces friction, thereby contributing to higher efficiency. The same applies to the spray-guided multiple injection with up to 200 bar fuel pressure. The AMG powerplant can be identified by the red aluminium insert on the engine cover.

The Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC at a glance:

Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC
Number of cylinders/arrangement V6 biturbo
Displacement 2996 cc
Output 270 kW (367 hp) at 5500-6000 rpm
Peak torque 520 Nm at 2500-4500 rpm
NEDC fuel consumption urban/extra-urban/combined 8.7 – 8.3 l/100 km
CO2 emissions 199 – 189 g/km
Acceleration
0-100 km/h
4.9 s
Top speed 250 km/h***
Price (OTR without Insurance)

*price is inclusive of GST

RM468,888

 

For more details the full press release of the Mercedes-AMG C43 & GLC 43, click here: Press Information_The New 43s CKD_FINAL

Nabil Jeffri becomes the ‘face’ of Mercedes-AMG Malaysia…

Nabil Jeffri (above, right) has become Malaysia’s first “face” of the AMG brand in conjunction with the launch of the locally-produced Mercedes-AMG C 43 and GLC 43. With his racing capabilities, Nabil Jeffri is the optimal partner for AMG as he embodies the performance brands’ values and characteristics. With his local and international recognition, the vehicle of choice is the sporty and agile Mercedes-AMG C 43. He is well-known in the motorsport world, having driven in the GP2 series, won second place in the German Formula Three Championship and this year driving in the legendary race of Le Mans. He also has the honour of being the youngest F1 test-driver.

Mercedes-AMG C43 & GLC43 Launch Photo Gallery…

 

Here’s a 360-degree video look at the Aston Martin, BMW and Mercedes-Benz pavilions at BIMS 2018!

ASTON MARTIN

BMW

Mercedes-Benz

 

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Commercial Vehicles (MBM CV) together with trusted authorised dealer, Cycle & Carriage Bintang Berhad, recently celebrated the launch of the Cycle & Carriage Bintang Commercial Vehicle Centre (Cycle & Carriage CV Centre) in Gopeng, Perak.

The launch also represents Cycle & Carriage Bintang’s 13th dealership, and its foray into the FUSO retail business, having previously provided FUSO after sales only. “Living up to our tagline, ‘Trucks you can trust’, we are pleased to launch this Cycle & Carriage Commercial Vehicle Centre, enhancing our reach in the northern region of Peninsular Malaysia. With our trusted partner Cycle & Carriage Bintang, the launch represents a promise to our customers, to steadfastly expand our service offerings to deliver the highest quality trucks that are designed for reliability and economic efficiency,” said Mercedes-Benz Malaysia, Vice President, Commercial Vehicles, Mr Albert Yee.

Part of a long-standing partnership between principal and authorised dealer partner, RM1.1million was invested in the Cycle & Carriage CV Centre. This comes as Mercedes-Benz Malaysia and Cycle & Carriage Bintang continue expanding customer touchpoints by delivering the highest quality of commercial vehicles, dependable service quality and extensive after-sales expertise for the northern region of Peninsular Malaysia.

A full-fledged 3S centre, the Cycle & Carriage CV Centre is managed by personnel well-versed in sales, technical services and spare parts for Mercedes-Benz and FUSO vehicles. The CV centre is able to display eight commercial vehicles complete with open-air canopy concept and a customer lounge for more personalised customer service. Equipped with four work bays, a full length work pit and a dedicated engine repair area, the CV centre is able to service up to 43 Mercedes-Benz and FUSO commercial vehicles a month.

Speaking at the official launch, Cycle & Carriage Bintang Berhad CEO, Mr Wilfrid Foo, said, “Today, we are moving forward to a very interesting time ahead of us. This dedicated Commercial Vehicle Centre in Gopeng, is the first for Cycle & Carriage to support our three other shared commercial and passenger car centres in Bukit Tengah, Batu Caves and Johor Bahru. This particular commercial vehicles workshop is designed and built with our customer’s comfort and care in mind. While our certified skilful technicians work on your prime movers and trucks, we will also take care of the drivers who bring the vehicles in.”

With a built-up area of 13,412 sq ft, Cycle & Carriage CV Centre provides driver amenities for greater convenience and comfort. “At this centre, we provide the appropriate space and infrastructure to support our customers’ commercial vehicle needs, which includes the drivers’ comfort, with great amenities like a reading area, prayer room, and rest rooms equipped with beds and recliners. we invested in These are features specifically with the commercial vehicle market segment in mind,” Foo explained

“Today’s celebration is also significant as we officially signed the sales and service agreement for the FUSO brand. This is a new business development that would also enable us to serve more FUSO commercial vehicles moving forward,“ he added.

More…
For shorter turn-around time for commercial vehicle inspection, the CV Centre is strategically situated near PUSPAKOM to reduce the customer waiting period of their vehicles. As the largest and oldest Mercedes-Benz authorised dealership in the country, Cycle & Carriage Bintang has presence in 13 locations nationwide. Today, the Cycle & Carriage CV Centre is its first dedicated outlet for Mercedes-Benz and FUSO commercial vehicles only.

During the same event, Cycle & Carriage Berhad also marked the delivery of a Mercedes-Benz Actros prime mover each to Chuan City Enterprise Sdn Bhd and Pek Ong and Sons Nurseries Sdn Bhd. Both companies are new customers to Cycle & Carriage Bintang. It was the first Mercedes-Benz Actros purchase for Chuan City Enterprise Sdn Bhd, and the second for Pek Ong and Sons Nurseries Sdn Bhd.

The Cycle & Carriage CV Centre is located at 23 (Lot 213087) Jalan Industri 3/1, Kawasan Perindustrian Gopeng, 31600 Gopeng, Perak Darul Ridzuan, Tel: 05-3541819 / 05-3541280.
For more information, visit www.ccb.mercedes-benz.com.my

“Automotive excellence goes beyond the vehicle, it encompasses the entire customer experience” and towards that end, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia recently held its inaugural Dealer of The Year awards aimed at identifying the best and brightest among its 33 dedicated dealerships nationwide, and recognising excellence in five key performance measurements during 2017.

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia presented a total of six awards for Best Performance in Financial Services, Best Performance in Business Excellence, Best Performance in After-Sales, Best Performance in Sales, Best Performance in Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) and Customer Loyalty Index (CLI), and the ultimate award – The Dealer of the Year 2017.

 

Speaking at the award presentation ceremony, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia, President and CEO, Dr Claus Weidner (above, 2nd from right) said, “As the leading premium automotive brand in Malaysia, we have been setting the benchmark in defining automotive excellence – especially in crafting a unique and unrivalled customer experience.  To this end, we are continuously enhancing customer touch-points, and currently offer the largest network coverage in the premium segment.”

Asbenz Motors Sdn Bhd emerged victorious for Best Performance in Sales, while Cycle & Carriage Bintang Bhd (Johor Bahru) won for Best Performance in After-Sales. Best Performance in CSI and CLI was awarded to Cycle & Carriage Bintang (Northern) Sdn Bhd (Juru & Bukit Tengah), and Hap Seng Star Sdn Bhd (Kinrara) earned the Best Performance in Business Excellence. Hap Seng Star Sdn Bhd (Jalan Ipoh) picked up the award for Best Performance in Financial Services.

The most coveted award, the Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Dealer of the Year 2017, was presented to Hap Seng Star Sdn Bhd Balakong dealership – achieving the overall highest scores in all aspects of sales, after-sales, customer satisfaction index, customer loyalty index, business excellence and financial services.

“We are honoured and pleased to receive the inaugural Dealer of the Year award from Mercedes-Benz Malaysia. Our Mercedes-Benz Hap Seng Star Balakong Autohaus is truly deserving of this accolade, having committed to delivering exceptional standards in all aspects of the business. Hap Seng Star is, and has always been, dedicated to putting the customer at the centre of our activities and we commend our colleagues at Hap Seng Star Balakong for their combined efforts in achieving this award,” said Chief Operating Officer of Hap Seng Consolidated Berhad and Chief Executive of Hap Seng Consolidated Berhad Automotive Division, Harald Behrend.

“With these awards, we recognise the commitment, dedication and passion of our dealer partners to support our promise of delivering the Best Products and the Best Customer Experience. On behalf of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia, I congratulate all our dealer partners for their commitment in living up to the three-pointed star’s The Best or Nothing motto. And a special congratulations to all award recipients on their remarkable achievements in 2017,” concluded Dr Weidner.

To-date, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has 33 dedicated dealerships nationwide delivering the best products and the best customer experience throughout customers’ entire journey, maintaining Mercedes-Benz Malaysia as the largest premium automotive dealer network in the country. The latest Mercedes-Benz ‘Autohaus’ (above) was also just opened in Klang recently, and you can read about that here.

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia together with authorised dealer, NZ Wheels, recently launched the Mercedes-Benz NZ Wheels Klang Autohaus. Mercedes-Benz NZ Wheels Klang also features the first separate facility for a Mercedes-Benz Proven Exclusivity centre in Malaysia, a dedicated space for customers to view and test drive an extensive range of certified pre-owned Mercedes-Benz cars located adjacent to the Autohaus.

“We congratulate our dealer partner NZ Wheels on the official launch of the Mercedes-Benz NZ Wheels Klang Autohaus. This latest Autohaus demonstrates our continuous commitment to the Malaysian market, our customers and our fans. As we remain focused on providing our customers with the Best Products and Best Customer Experience, we will also continue expanding customer touchpoints nationwide, investing in developing key areas including talent, technology, production and services,” said Mercedes-Benz Malaysia President and CEO, Dr Claus Weidner.

A total of RM6 million was invested in upgrading the Mercedes-Benz NZ Wheels Klang Autohaus to now be compliant with the Mercedes-Benz Presentation System II (MPS II) autohaus concept, the global Autohaus benchmark of customer experience, complete with the new Mercedes-Benz Corporate Identity (CI). The new Mercedes-Benz CI goes beyond merely serving as a design concept, it also improves orientation to the customer, supports consulting discussions and naturally underlines the values of the Mercedes-Benz brand as the No. 1 premium automotive brand in the world.

With a total land area of 320,000 sq. ft. supporting a built-up area of 32,000 sq. ft., the NZ Wheels Klang Autohaus has a total display capacity of 17 vehicles — three of which are Mercedes-AMG cars at the AMG Performance Centre. NZ Wheels Klang is managed by around 70 personnel across sales, technical services and spare parts functions. A full-fledged 3S centre, the Autohaus is equipped with 30 work bays, capable of servicing up to approximately 650 vehicles a month, providing general and specialised repair solutions.

Speaking at the official launch event, NZ Wheels Sdn Bhd Group Chief Executive Officer, Automotive Group, Dato’ Samson Anand George, said, “With the update of the NZ Wheels Klang Autohaus to the highest Mercedes-Benz standards and latest corporate identity, NZ Wheels reaffirms its presence as a steadfast and passionate Mercedes-Benz dealer. Having upgraded our sales and service facilities, we are confident that our customers in Klang and nearby areas will receive no less than the best care that is synonymous with the Mercedes-Benz three-pointed star.”

With customer comfort in mind, the i-Showroom in Mercedes-Benz NZ Wheels Klang Autohaus includes digital touch screens for customers to gain a better understanding of Mercedes-Benz product features and sales processes. The Mercedes-Benz NZ Wheels Klang Autohaus is also equipped with a private Star Lounge for a personalised and premium atmosphere. In addition, the latest upgrade now features Service Differentiation – an exclusive range of personalised after-sales services that offers flexibility and convenience which includes pick-up/drop-off of customer vehicles, after-hours drop-off and fast-lane service.

The Mercedes-Benz NZ Wheels Klang Autohaus is one of seven authorised Mercedes-Benz Autohauses in Selangor, to support the increasing need for premium service and experience among Mercedes-Benz customers.

To date, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has 33 dedicated dealerships nationwide delivering the Best Products and the Best Customer Experience throughout the entire customer journey, maintaining the German marque’s position as the largest premium automotive dealer network in the country.

Established in 1994, NZ Wheels is the third largest Mercedes-Benz authorised dealership in the country. The Mercedes-Benz NZ Wheels Klang Autohaus is located at Lot 1385, Wisma NAZA, Jalan Kapar, Batu 2, Kawasan 19, 41400 Klang, Selangor Darul Ehsan. For more information, call +603 – 3343 9270.

Mercedes-Benz NZ Wheels Klang Photo Gallery…

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Commercial Vehicles (MBM CV) delivered a strong performance last year, recording a total of 2,469 vehicles sold in 2017, comprising FUSO light-duty and heavy-duty trucks as well as Mercedes-Benz trucks and vans. Despite the dip of 7.9% in Total Industry Volume (TIV) for 2017, MBM CV continues to be a strong supporter of the transport and haulage industry, attributing its robust performance in 2017 to its strategy of placing customers at the centre of its initiatives.

“Part of Daimler Trucks, MBM CV represents first-class product quality and service excellence in the Malaysian market. In everything that we do, our focus is on our customers. Safety, reliability and economic efficiency are our topmost priority. With the commitment of our dealer partners and the trust of the market, 2017 proved to be a positive year in many aspects. As a new year begins, we remain as committed as ever to deliver vehicles and solutions of the highest quality – Trucks you can trust,” said Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Commercial Vehicles, Vice President, Mr Albert Yee (above, main image).

In 2017, the famed Mercedes-Benz Actros proved to be a top choice among hauliers recording an impressive total of 268 units sold, maintaining a double digit growth of 24.1%. Contributing 32.1% sales, the Mercedes-Benz Actros 2644LS 6×2 (L-cab) remains the most popular model. Meanwhile, FUSO trucks recorded 2,170 units sold.  As a result of securing fleet contracts from new small and medium operators during the year, MBM CV was able to achieve a market penetration 13.06% for Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles in 2017, a new record for the company.

Throughout 2017, MBM CV and its network dealers continued to raise the bar with best-in-class commercial vehicles and service quality for the haulage industry.  Product enhancements included the new TD Canter facelift and ensuring that MBM CV’s entire product portfolio complies with the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) safety regulations set by Jabatan Pengangkutan Jalan (JPJ). These measures improve vehicle safety and ensure customers’ peace-of-mind.

2017 was the fourth consecutive record year for Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM), achieving an all-time high sales record of 12,045 vehicles sold in 2017. This translates into an overall 2.3 per cent growth compared to 2016. The three-pointed star is well ahead of the pack in the premium segment, maintaining a 2.3 per cent market share*.

“Mercedes-Benz Malaysia enjoyed a remarkable year in 2017 as a result of our customer centric strategy. We’re very proud of our achievements in 2017. It is the result of great teamwork from everyone in the Mercedes-Benz Malaysia team including our dealer partners. We understand our customers’ requirements and target to fulfill their expectations. To deliver the Best Products, we launched 17 new models…” (cont’d)

“To offer the Best Customer Experience, we launched nine new and upgraded dealerships, including a brand new dealer group, Auto Commerz Sdn Bhd. As a result, we successfully achieved a record-breaking year, our best ever performance in the history of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia. Moving into 2018, we are confident of the growth potential in the Malaysian automotive market and will continue to invest substantially in developing key areas including talent, technology, production and service. This is the strategy behind maintaining our position as the No. 1 premium brand in Malaysia,” said Mercedes-Benz Malaysia President and CEO, Dr Claus Weidner (above, second from right).

“We are delighted to have delivered a record-breaking 12,045 Mercedes-Benz Cars to customers in Malaysia and by this confirming our position as the leading premium brand. Our locally produced vehicles, especially the new E-Class and the GLC have been our growth drivers. We are thankful that our customers have put their confidence in our premium products. With our innovative mobility solutions, digitalisation initiatives as well as upcoming product highlights, we are confident of continuing on this success path,” said Mercedes-Benz Malaysia, Sales & Marketing, Vice President, Mark Raine (above).

For FY2017, MBM’s sales was driven by the locally produced limousines which recorded 7,041 units sold. This was followed closely by the Mercedes-Benz SUVs with 2,599 units sold, spurred by the introduction of the locally produced Mercedes-Benz GLC 200 and GLC 250. Growth within this segment is expected to continue. The Mercedes-Benz compact cars recorded a total of 2,031 units sold, while the aspirational Mercedes-Benz Dream Cars, also known as the brand shapers, recorded a total of 374 units sold.

MBM marked the the year by launching six new 43 series models namely, the Mercedes-Benz E 43 4MATIC (above), SLC 43, C 43 4MATIC (below), C 43 4MATIC Coupe, GLC 43 4MATIC, GLC 43 4MATIC Coupe and later, the AMG GT R.
Complementing its line-up of Best Products, MBM invested in initiatives that demonstrated its signature Best Customer Experience by organising various customer engagement activities focusing on the different interests of its target audience. These included the Ultra Singapore 2017, Urban Hunting movement, and Hungry for Adventure in East Malaysia.

In addition, MBM also launched a Mercedes-Benz branded charging station in Bangsar Shopping Centre (BSC) and hosted the Mike Horn X Hungry for Adventure event, featuring the greatest explorer of all time who is currently on a two-year journey – Pole2Pole mission.

Moving even closer to its fans and customers, MBM continued to innovate exciting platforms to enhance customer touch points in 2017. These included mobile roadshows, the Mercedes-Benz Gallery, Customer Care Centre, and Test Drive Booking System. MBM also introduced experiencing cars in Virtual Reality, Digital Signage, Product Experts, Online Service Booking, Mercedes-Benz Financial Calculator and also a one-stop integrated state-of-the-art web platform which facilitates the needs of both new and existing customers known as OneWeb.

In regards to its dealer network, MBM introduced SalesTouch, a mobile sales tool which enables product experts and sales consultants to provide customers with real time information. The feature complements its existing features which are the Service Differentiation and Product Experts.

Always in touch with customers’ needs, MBM launched a new campaign in late 2017 in partnership with its sister company, Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia (MBSM). The campaign, in anticipation for the Chinese New Year celebration in 2018, offers personalised and flexible financing packages to give Mercedes-Benz fans total peace of mind to finance their dream Mercedes-Benz cars based on their respective financing commitments.

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has 33 dedicated dealerships nationwide delivering the Best Products and Best Customer Service throughout the entire customer journey. To date, Mercedes-Benz has the largest premium dealer network in the country.

In FY2017, Mercedes-Benz achieved a total investment of over RM 1 billion in the Malaysian market. One-third of this investment was made in its Pekan Production Plant and MBM Training Academy in Puchong, Selangor. This strategy demonstrates the leading premium German marque’s commitment in supporting the nation’s ambition of becoming an EEV hub.

*As of YTD November 2017
NB: The numbers for 2017 are unaudited and subject to change.

It has been announced that Cycle & Carriage Bintang Berhad (Cycle & Carriage Bintang) now has the largest network for certified body and paint collision repair facilities in Malaysia, following Daimler AG’s certification of the Cycle & Carriage Johor Bahru, Bukit Tengah and Batu Caves facilities as official Mercedes-Benz Body and Paint Centres. Cycle & Carriage Bintang’s customers in the Northern and Southern region, as well as the Klang Valley, can now enjoy peace of mind and confidence when restoring their Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

“In everything we do, we have our customers in mind at all times. The ‘Centre of Competence’ certification is an assurance that all Cycle & Carriage body and paint repairs are carried out according to the stringent global specifications set by Mercedes-Benz. Having three of our body and paint facilities awarded the certification is an impressive achievement. It reflects the quality of our after-sales teams who deliver our signature first class service to customers every step of the way,” said Cycle & Carriage Bintang CEO, Wilfrid Foo.

In early 2017, Cycle & Carriage’s Johor Bahru and Bukit Tengah service centres underwent an extensive facility and equipment upgrading process. In tandem with this, employees received specialised technical training and service process enhancement. Following which, both outlets were audited in the same year as part of the certification process, and were awarded the ‘Centre of Competence’ certification by Daimler AG. The Johor Bahru service centre spans over 32,000 sq ft and is equipped with 14 body and paint work bays, while Bukit Tengah is over 14,000 sq ft with five body and paint work bays.

Cycle & Carriage Bintang Batu Caves, the centralised body and paint collision repair centre for the Klang Valley, was first awarded the certification by Daimler AG in 2012. As part of the certification process, a re-audit was scheduled in November 2017. The Batu Caves Service Centre achieved the perfect score of 100 percent and is now recognised by Daimler AG as one of the highest-ranking centres for collision repairs in the world. Spanning over 45,000 sq ft with 22 body and paint work bays, the facility has the capacity to service 130 vehicles every month.

Cycle & Carriage Bintang’s network comprises 12 Autohauses nationwide which includes 10 After-Sales Autohauses across Malaysia. In 2016, Cycle & Carriage Bintang was awarded all top three spots in the Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Service Excellence Award in South East Asia for demonstrating strong aftersales standards. More recently, Cycle & Carriage Bintang received the highest Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) rating for after sales for the second half of 2017 in Malaysia, with Cycle & Carriage Bintang (Northern) Sdn Bhd Bukit Tengah announced as the Champion in the competitor benchmark study.

Auto Trader, one of the UK’s biggest online marketplaces for new and used cars, has published a list of the top 10 most searched vehicles of this past year. The results were based on users who searched through Auto Trader’s online portal for their desired vehicles in 2017.

The results portray a very interesting story, and despite the unstable economic situation, Brexit and the dieselgate saga, premium vehicles are still in high demand. At the top of the list is the BMW 3 Series, thanks to youthful styling, peppy turbocharged engines and a slew of tech features, it was the most desired car of the year.

Finishing second, was the Volkswagen Golf. The Mack Daddy of family hatchbacks was very popular among visitors but not enough to be crowned king of the hill. The Mercedes-Benz C-Class came in a respectable third place, just edging out another stalwart, the Ford Focus.

Following is the top ten list of most searched vehicles:

1. BMW 3 SERIES

2. VOLKSWAGEN GOLF

3. MERCEDES-BENZ C CLASS

4. FORD FOCUS

5. BMW 1 SERIES

6. BMW 5 SERIES

7. FORD FIESTA

8. AUDI A3

9. MERCEDES-BENZ E CLASS

10. VAUXHALL ASTRA

Ivan Aistrop, Road Test Editor at Auto Trader, said, “In fact, if you look at the list of most searched-for diesel cars, you’ll see it contains more premium products than for any other fuel type, suggesting that diesel cars are still desirable for buyers despite recent negative press coverage.”

Apart from this, Auto Trader also came out with a list of the most searched for electric cars. Dominating the list was Nissan’s Leaf due in part to its sensible styling, conventional knobs and switchgear as well as its ‘down to earth’ method of operation. Tesla’s Model S was placed much lower than expected, finishing in 9th place, just ahead of the Vauxhall Ampera.

The influx of efficient and advanced electric cars in the next few years, could mean that an EV, not a petrol or diesel car, will take the No.1 spot for next year’s Top 10. Overwhelming demand for vehicles like the newly launched Tesla Model 3 may relegate today’s most wanted petrol cars to the bottom section of the 2018 list.

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has for decades, been regarded as the most technologically advanced production vehicle on the planet. Features and systems that are common place in regular econoboxes today, were first introduced on the S-Class years earlier. The car represents Merc’s never-ending pursuit of automotive perfection.

This notion can be proven by looking at the spec sheet of the latest car. Not only does it come with the a slew of advanced active and passive safety systems, but can also alter interior lighting, ambiance and fragrance, depending on one’s mood. This allows for an even more relaxing driving experience then that offered by its predecessors.

In a promotional video advert released by the company recently, these very features have been highlighted. It depicts the day in the life of a top level exec, as he goes through the motions of running a company. The lighthearted nature of the video portrays the stresses that ‘alpha male’ top level management execs are put under on a day-to-day basis.

The video reaches its climax toward the end of the clip where the boss, heading out in his S-Class, gets stuck in a traffic jam. As he is about to implode into manic rage of biblical proportions, the car’s interior system activates its various ‘mood changer’ features that help him calm down, and enjoy the moment.

This amusing yet relatable video is one of many that have been published by the automaker on its official Youtube channel. Check it out and let us know what you think of the car and its advanced tech features.

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