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MINI Malaysia Welcomes The New MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid! [+Video]

MINI Malaysia has introduced the New MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid, the first Plug-In Hybrid variant of the successful premium Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) from MINI.

Mr. Kidd Yam, Head of MINI Malaysia (main image, right) said, “The second generation of the MINI Countryman was a tremendous success here when we introduced the vehicle in April last year. The versatile premium SAV was also very crucial in adding to the story of our record breaking performance of 1,011 vehicles delivered last year which was a positive 12% growth over 2016 where we delivered 902 vehicles. This achievement made us the second highest growing brand in the Malaysian premium segment and we are currently tracking very well as the third largest brand in the segment.”

Kidd Yam added that the New MINI Countryman also achieved a top 5-star rating in the Euro NCAP crash test. The stringent testing procedure established that the spacious MINI all-rounder, also designed for being taken off the beaten track, provides an outstanding level of protection on all seats in every situation.

Sashi Ambi, Head of Corporate Communications, BMW Group Malaysia, (main image, left) meanwhile said, “We are pleased to be able to introduce another premium vehicle to our Mobility of the Future portfolio here in the country. It is additionally special as it is the first for the MINI brand and will further demonstrate our expertise in working with the newest technologies for the premium automotive industry.”

Ambi added that MINI has been a pioneer of electro mobility for over a decade with the MINI E which was utilised as test beds for user and mobility behaviour. The New MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid shares the newest developments findings in electro mobility in the country. Have a look at the video of the new Mini Countryman PHEV below…

 

More on the new MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid: Agile, Versatile, Electrifying….

Discreet but equally unmistakable indications of the pioneering character of the car’s drive form is noticeable with the distinct model-specific “e” badge on the side scuttles and yellow “S” in the model inscription on the rear as well as on the radiator grille and door sill finishers. In addition to this, the New MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid’s all-new electrifying experience is equipped with ALL4 exterior body kit, 19” MINI Yours Masterpiece, as well as a charging port under a flap in the area of the left-hand side scuttle.

On the inside, the New MINI Countryman features MINI Yours Walknappa Leather Steering Wheel. Rich details complete the artisan feel with hand-finished aluminium-coloured contrast stitching. A high resolution 6.5” Touch Screen Display in the MINI Centre Instrument houses state-of-the-art technology and puts a wealth of navigation information at the driver’s fingertips. The touch screen technology supports multi-touch with pinch to zoom-in functionality for maps and typing.

The New MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid also features an eDrive button which allows the driver to choose between different electric drive modes: the standard AUTO eDrive mode, the purely electric MAX eDrive mode, and the SAVE BATTERY mode, in which charging status of the high-voltage battery is maintained at a constant level.

In the AUTO eDrive mode, the intelligent energy management system coordinates the interaction of all drive components with the electric motor to combine the best possible efficiency with great driving excitement, while increasing the electric range. For example, if the battery charging status is between 100% and 7%, drivers can drive up to 80km/h – free of local emissions without using any fuel. At higher speeds, the petrol engine comes on automatically. For maximum drive output, the electric motor supports the petrol engine as eBoost.

In the MAX eDRIVE mode, drivers can enjoy purely electric driving up to speeds of 120km/h. Short distances can be covered on purely electric power with a range of 40km. The SAVE BATTERY mode meanwhile comes into play when the battery charging status is low. This mode enables the battery to be charged by the petrol engine or allows the charging status to be maintained at 90%. In this mode, mainly the petrol engine is employed.

The MINI eALL4 System plays a role to emulate the hallmark MINI Go-Kart driving experience. The ALL4 all-wheel drive comes with Dynamic Stability Control which distributes the propulsive force of the engines to both axles. The petrol engine propels the front axle wheels while the electric motor propels the rear axle wheels. The ALL4 system helps to counteract oversteer as well as understeer and ensures an optimum propulsion. This means supreme traction on every road surface, maximum stability, and even more fun cornering. With the MINI eALL4 system, firm grip is guaranteed wherein the MAX eDrive mode activates rear wheel drive, the SAVE BATTERY mode activates front wheel drive, and the AUTO eDRIVE mode with eBoost will activate four wheel drive.

Being the first of its kind in MINI, the new MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid effectively offers a petrol engine driving the front wheels and an electric motor powering on the rear wheels. With 6-speed automatic transmission, the new MINI is capable of producing 224hp and 385Nm of torque, thus making the model the torquiest MINI model in its range. The New MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in 6.8 seconds, reaching a maximum speed of up to 198km/h while consuming only an average of 2.1 litres per 100km of fuel. It also offers an all-electric driving range of up to 42km with a maximum speed of up to 120km/h.

The New MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid can be charged at home by connecting it to a power socket via the Home Charging Cable for approximately 5 hours (230V), depending on the voltage of the household power grid, or at one of 270 public charging facilities across Malaysia for approximately 3:15 hours (230V), depending on the voltage of the power grid of the public charging station.

To reward owners of the New MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid, MINI Malaysia will also introduce the ChargeNow offering bundled with the MINI Public Charging Cables as well as a 1-Year free subscription of unlimited charging at all 270 ChargeEV stations. The body and roof colour combination offered for the New MINI Countryman are Chili Red, British Racing Green, Thunder Grey, Light White, and Melting Silver with Black Roof; and in Island Blue with White Roof.

MORE…

MINI Roadside Assistance…

The New MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid is covered by MINI Malaysia’s 5 Years Roadside Assistance programme, available for all new MINI vehicles with a comprehensive list of services that include a 24-Hour, 365-days-a-year Accident and Help on the Phone and On the Spot Hotline, Free Towing Services and when needed (over 200KM from residential home), Replacement Vehicle, Seamless Mobility, Accommodation, Mobility Services Solutions as well as Repatriation services.

Additionally, the new plug-in hybrid variant of the MINI Countryman is offered with a battery warranty that is valid for six years or up to 100,000km.

The MINI Roadside Assistance program can be accessed by contacting 1800-88-8808.

MINI Service Online…

Making a service appointment has never been easier. The new online service programme will now allow customers to schedule their service needs directly at their preferred MINI Authorised Dealerships via www.service.mini.my.

MINI Financing…

The new locally assembled MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid will be available with a range of financing options including:

  • MINI Balloon Financing
  • MINI Straight-Line Financing
  • MINI Full Circle Programme
  • MINI Step-Down Financing

The New MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid is available at all authorised MINI dealerships nationwide from Friday, 6th April 2018. More information on the MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid can be found at https://www.mini.my/.

BMW Group Malaysia Introduces the BMW Group “Loyalty+” Mobile App

BMW Group Malaysia has introduced the BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile App, a loyalty mobile application for BMW White Card, MINI Black Card and BMW Excellence Club members to access their privileges on the go. Further enhancing the premium automaker’s customer service experience, the new mobile device loyalty application enables an easier and seamless integration of e-payment, financing services and access to luxury and one of a kind events and experiences.

Mr. Harald Hoelzl, Managing Director and CEO of BMW Group Malaysia (above) said, “As of this year, there are approximately 20.96 million smartphone and mobile device users throughout Malaysia. Our customers make up a good portion of this statistic, and they lead a lifestyle that requires them to have information at their fingertips whenever they need it. With the new BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile app, we are looking to further digitalise our products, services and touch points so that we can create a seamless application to engage with all our customers. We are after all, the leaders in digitalisation in the premium automotive industry.”

As part of BMW Group Malaysia’s premium ownership experience, BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad owners will now have complete access to all the features their BMW White Card, MINI Black Card and BMW Excellence Club provides within the app. Upon signing in into the app, customers have access to a landing page, with the options to peruse and act on the menu content. There are several functions customers can engage with on the app; such as accessing their loyalty cards and use the QR scanning technology to gain remote access without the need of their loyalty card. The app will also allow for the latest updates on customer privileges and events to be delivered directly to their phone.

Additionally, financing information can be managed quickly and easily through the app and here, customers get a quick access to their contract overview, with an intuitive e-payment interface for more convenient transactions courtesy of BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia.

The BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile App also includes a dealer locator function where a dealership map is accessible with the swipe on the screen. Customers can also explore new updates and news on the latest vehicle models from the BMW Group. The BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile App is now available on Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

The BMW Group Malaysia Premium Ownership experience includes:

  • BMW 5-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Scheduled Service Program.
  • MINI 4 Years Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Scheduled Service.
  • BMW 2-Year/ 24 Month Tyre Warranty Program for its Run Flat Tyre offering and services.
  • Ultimate Protection Program+ (UPP+) courtesy of BMW Financial Services Malaysia and underwritten by Allianz General Insurance Company (Malaysia) Bhd.
  • BMW Roadside Assistance and Accident Hotline.
  • The BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile App – BMW White Card, MINI Black Card and BMW Excellence Club membership program.
  • BMW and MINI Service Online.

Leona Chin Takes Podium in MINI Challenge Asia Series!

2018 is starting well for local racer-gal Leona Chin. Following her placing as second overall in the Renault Clio Cup China Series in 2016 and a 1 year hiatus, she’s back at it again in the newly-launched MINI Challenge Asia Series. This one-make race featuring the MINI F56 JCW – a 255hp, sequential gearbox equipped race car based on the road-going F56 JCW.

The MINI Challenge Asia Series sees the world-renowned MINI one-make race series making it’s way to Asia, with the hopes that it will eventually grow in scale to match that of the series 17 years history in the UK.

Over the course of the weekend, Leona proved she could tangle with some of the best drivers in the region. Two notable opponents were Nobuhiro Murata, a Japan Super GT driver, and Nattanid ‘Kat’ Leewatanavalagul, current best female driver from Thailand. For this round, Leona is racing under Team GreatDrive – a well-established Hong Kong based automobile importer.

The first leg of the series was held at Zhuhai International Circuit – a track that Leona is familiar with herself given her past racing experience in China. During free practice Leona managed to clock a time just 1 second off the top spot. The field was separated by 16 seconds, with the top 5 drivers placing within 7 seconds of each other. Murata did not manage to finish qualifying as he went off the track during his session.

When it came time to race, Leona’s competitor pulled slightly ahead during Race 1, she finished the race with a 4th place standing, just half a second behind Takaya Tsubobayashi. For Race 2 the positions were shuffled once again., and Leona took the opportunity to overtake Tsubobayashi for a 3rd place finish, just 1 second behind Nobuhiro Murata. During the race she also managed to set a fastest lap time of 1:54.188, roughly half a second quicker than Henry Lee Jr. who took victory over the weekend.

Following the end of Race 1 and 2, Leona felt positive about the outcome and the coming races. “I would like to thank GreatDrive for giving me the opportunity to compete in this round of MINI Challenge Asia Series. The car performed well during both races, really easy to drive and light on its feet.” she said. “It’s a nice step up from the Clio cup car I raced 2 years ago. I’m looking forward to the next round on the 16th and 17th June, which also be at Zhuhai International Circuit.”

Leona Chin has been involved in cars and motorsports since her teenage years. She has had experience in various levels of motorsports, competing both within Malaysia and overseas as well, along with off-track exploits such as Gymkhana, Autocross, Rallying and – most notably of all – drifting.

She currently has roles both as a driver and a manager for teams in various series, and is continuously honing her skills and looking for new challenges.

 

 

VIDEO REVIEW: MINI 5-Door – For The Kid In All Of Us…

Coming in just shy of RM200k, the MINI 5-door is quite a lot of fun to hoon around in! But with this kind of sporty handling, does one really need additional doors? We find out!

All MINI’s from MINI Malaysia come with MINI 4 Years Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Scheduled Service as well. The estimated retail prices (on the road for personal registration, without insurance) are:

 MINI Cooper 3 Door                        –           RM 188,888.00

 MINI Cooper S 3 Door                     –           RM 229,888.00

 MINI John Cooper Works 3 Door  –        RM 293,888.00

 MINI Cooper 5 Door                         –           RM 193,888.00

 MINI Cooper S 5 Door                     –           RM 239,888.00

For the FULL Mini 5-Door Press Release, click this: Press Release – MINI Malaysia Introduces New 5-Door

Review: A week with the Mini Cooper 5-door by Vincent Vega…

Reviewing a Mini Cooper 5-door is like an adult reviewing a toy gun. You have grown out of it but yet you will still pick one up even for just a few seconds. Whether it is for the memories and the few seconds of child-like freedom that a toy gun offers, or for other reasons, but you never really grow away from a toy gun, you would still have fun with it but your everyday toys just become expensive.

The Mini Cooper works along similar lines too. When you’re young, the Cooper is probably up there among your must own cars, or perhaps you have even owned one, in which case you would probably love the car for its iconic one-of-a-kind design, superb handling, and all out fun it offers.

But just as you would grow away from the toy gun, there will come a time where the size and practicality that a Mini Cooper offers does not match your life and style any longer. Perhaps you need more room, more freedom to accommodate your everyday life, more doors even.

But unlike the toy gun which you may chuck into a dark corner never to see again, you can actually take your Mini Cooper to the dealer and trade it in for the Cooper you see in the photos here – the Mini Cooper 5-door.

Still stylish, still iconic and yet practical, the 5-door is an “adulting” Mini Cooper, and it is quite good at it too.

But it still flaunts the Mini in the Cooper, the back seats are better suited for the vertically challenged as anyone beyond 5’10” will have a tough time (as demonstrated by the kind soul above who measures in at 6’5″). Booth space is decent, much better than the standard two-door variant and with the foldable rear seats, you get even more practicality. But that is about it as far as practicality goes. The Clubman and Countryman would be better associated with practicality, while the Cooper 5-door is what you get when your wife tells you that you have outgrown 2-door cars.

But even if practicality isn’t the name of the game for the 5-door, it is still holds true to its DNA of fun and style.

Everywhere we went during the week long review people who sneak a curious glance and the girls would drop their pants, wink, blow kisses, had a curious twinkle in their eyes, basically everyone was curious. That is what a Mini does, it takes people back in time, to a place where they felt young, free and even stylish. It makes people curious about how the car will make them feel.

The fun factor in this Cooper 5-door is in the way it handles, and not in the way the car performs. Mini’s have always been known to have sweet, edgy handling, at the sacrifice of overall comfort, and modern Mini’s have mastered the art of something called “go-kart like handling.” Visit the website, attend a Mini event, or explore the driving modes the car offers and you will see messages about “go-kart handling”. And the handling is spot on perfect, twitch the steering just a little and the car responds almost immediately. And this isn’t the fire-breathing JCW model.

But being the base model, the car is powered by a slouch an unexciting engine. The 1.5-litre, 3-cylinder puts out 136hp and 220Nm of torque. This translates to an acceleration time of 8.1 seconds to 100km/h with a fuel consumption figure of just 5-litres per 100km, which is quite close to the City hybrid.

The engine is geared towards everyday practicality with a focus on fuel efficiency rather than all out performance. If it is the latter you seek then the Cooper S or the JCW model is the car you want, this one though is a partner for everyday life. But the car can still merrily cruise at 160-170km/h on the highway without sounding like it was about to have its internals explode out. The car has noble intentions, even though it isn’t very powerful, it has the intentions, and if you can find a stretch of road where it can hold its speed, then you can rely on that marvellous chassis to provide you with plenty of giggles.

Comfort isn’t the star of the show either. It is a nice car to be in around town or the city highways, but the fabric seats are hard and smallish, venture out of town and the chassis proves to be a little too stiff – it may give you the type of handling that would make a good hot hatch blush, but it will also bounce and jiggle parts of your body you never knew you had. I am also quite sure I need a b-cup bra now, or spend a good chunk of my life at the gym rather than at the bar.

Anyway, the Mini Cooper 5-door is all about style and convenience, but just don’t expect it to excel at the latter. For the price of RM193,888, there are many more cars out there that offer better practicality. You buy a Mini Cooper for the style and for its heritage, you can never go wrong in that aspect. Oh and it makes you feel young and fantabulous again.

by Vincent Vega

Celebrate CNY The MINI Way – Urbanite & Amplified Variants Introduced

“Prosperity is only a ride away with New and Exclusive editions of the MINI Cooper 5 Door and MINI Cooper S 3 Door for the festive trendsetters and edgy inspired”. How’s that for an intro? So, hear ye, hear ye, MINI Malaysia, has just introduced two of its newest limited MINI Hatch Editions – the MINI Urbanite and MINI Amplified.

Designed for edgy and trendsetting individuals as well as engineered for the sporty and energetic, the New MINI Urbanite Edition (above) is created in the MINI Cooper 5 Door platform while the MINI Amplified Edition is created in the form of the MINI Cooper S 3 Door (below)

Introducing both, Han Sang Yun, Managing Director and CEO of BMW Group Malaysia said, “This Chinese New Year, MINI is going bold and loud! We have curated two new cars for individuals with discerning preferences to ring in the festivities of the Year of the Dog. The MINI Urbanite Edition is the perfect embodiment of the youthful, fresh and innovative trendsetting style of the brand whereas the MINI Amplified Edition exemplifies the sporty verve and agile handling MINI is known for. All Red and Prosperous for the New Year!”

Both the New and Limited Editions of the MINI will be at all authorised MINI showrooms nationwide from today, 5th February 2018. More info on both including price after the photo gallery.

MINI Urbanite & Amplified Editions Photo Gallery…

More on the MINI Urbanite Edition…

Created in the profile of the MINI Cooper 5 Door, the MINI Urbanite Edition exudes an assertive street character having undergone a substantial restyling to accentuate its boldness. Onlookers will initially be greeted with a distinctive additional LED Headlight – a modern touch to the classic Minis in the Monte Carlo Rallye. The MINI Urbanite Edition further demonstrates confidence by featuring the black the 16” Victory Spoke Rims with Piano Black light trims and grille. The Racing Stripes on the bonnet and along the body further underscores its dynamic design – exuding boldness with every turn it makes.

Mirroring the bold exterior approach, owners can enjoy the John Cooper Works Colour Line in Glowing Red in their MINI Urbanite Edition with Anthracite Headliner accentuating the sporty interior. On top of the MINI Connected standard feature with Bluetooth and USB, it now spots a new Rear-View Camera system with parking guidance lines and obstacle marking that detects and marks stationary objects. Getting in the driver seat, you will be greeted with a chic sport leather steering wheel.

Boasting an inline 3-cylinder engine with 4 valves per cylinder, the MINI Urbanite Edition delivers 136 horsepower and 220Nm of torque to accelerate from 0 to 100 in just 8.1 seconds with a top speed of 207km/h while only consuming an average of 5 litres per 100km of fuel.

The New MINI Urbanite Edition offers colours in mysterious Midnight Black with Red Racing Stripes, Blazing Red or Pepper White with Black Racing Stripes.

More on the MINI Amplified Edition…

In spirit of amplification, the MINI Amplified Edition is engineered based on the MINI Cooper S 3 Door for the band of energetic, sporty elites. The exterior is anything but ordinary. Underlined by the John Cooper Works Aerodynamic Kit, the MINI Amplified Edition is fitted with a striking rear spoiler – the last thing bystanders will be able to rave over as this MINI Hatch Edition disappears into the distance. The MINI Amplified Edition is equipped with new Piano Black grille and matching headlight and taillight trim for a darker appearance. The Racing Stripes design on the MINI Amplified Edition pays homage to the MINI John Cooper Works Concept car giving it an extroverted personality, while the 17” John Cooper Works Track in Black Spoke adds a touch of flare to the MINI Amplified Edition – all of which equates to an impeccable identity.

The interior boasts a perfect balance between emotion and function. The distinctive John Cooper Works Racing Seats with integrated headrests designed in Alcantara Leather with contrasting Red Dinamica are built in to secure you in place while you enjoy the dynamism around you. Besides the Anthracite Headliner, the MINI Amplified Edition now features new exclusive accents in Glowing Red which was only available on the John Cooper Works Hatch previously. The bold colour makes for an exceptional match to the contrast stitching of the 6-Speed Sports Automatic Shifter as well as the John Cooper Works Perforated Leather Steering Wheel embroidery. To enable considerably easier and safer reverse parking and manoeuvring, the new Rear View Camera provides parking guidance lines and obstacle marking that detect and mark stationary objects. As a standard, the MINI Amplified Edition comes with comfort access and Black Chequered interior trims.

On the performance level, the MINI Amplified Edition is capable of 211 horsepower and 300Nm of torque thanks to the John Cooper Works Tuning Kit and the new John Cooper Works Valve Silence System. This accelerates the MINI Amplified Edition from 0 to 100 in merely 6.7 seconds with a top speed of 233  km/h. To amplify your presence with a sporty and aggressive tone that’s tastefully louder, the MINI Amplified Edition features a new Track mode which can be activated via the John Cooper Works Bluetooth Remote Control.

Spot the New MINI Amplified Edition in Midnight Black with Red Racing Stripes, Chilli Red or Pepper White with Black Racing Stripes.

Standard Features…

Unique in their own ways – aesthetically and in performance – both the MINI Urbanite and MINI Amplified Editions feature LED headlight with daytime driving lights, as well as LED taillights and fog lights on top of auto driving lights. On top of rain sensors, they also share the Park Distance Control to help curb stress – enabling easy access into and out of tight parking spaces.

Inside, owners can indulge in the automatic dual zone air conditioning surrounded by 12 colour ambient light. Both the limited MINI Hatch Editions boast the high-resolution 6.5” MINI Visual Boost with 5 key controller, interactive LED ring on central instrument display, and automatic start / stop with Keyless Go. Get the soundtrack of your drive with MINI Connected with Spotify integration as it works to provide you with over 30 million songs streamed live to the car. On top of MINI Driving Modes, MINI Urbanite Edition and MINI Amplified Edition also come with cruise control with braking function to provide a leisure driving experience.

MINI Roadside Assistance…

Both MINI Urbanite and MINI Amplified Editions are covered by MINI Malaysia’s 5 Years Roadside Assistance programme, available for all new MINI vehicles with a comprehensive list of services that include a 24-Hour, 365-days-a-year Accident and Help on the Phone and On the Spot Hotline, Free Towing Services and when needed (over 200KM from residential home), Replacement Vehicle, Seamless Mobility, Accommodation, Mobility Services Solutions as well as Repatriation services.

The MINI Roadside Assistance program can be accessed by contacting 1800-88-8808.

MINI Service Online…

Making a service appointment has never been easier. The new online service programme will now allow customers to schedule their service needs directly at their preferred MINI Authorised Dealerships via service.mini.my.

The limited MINI Hatch Editions will be making their debuts at all MINI showrooms nationwide from today and also offers new, edgy and trendsetting ownership programmes courtesy of the MINI Full Circle programme. With 70% margin of financing, ownership of the MINI Urbanite Edition starts from RM 1,758.00 per month, while ownership of the MINI Amplified Edition can begin from RM 2,158.00 per month. The MINI Full Circle programme is offered courtesy of BMW Credit Malaysia, a company of BMW Group Financial Services.

The limited-edition MINI Urbanite and MINI Amplified arrive with the MINI 4-Years Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Scheduled Service. The retail price (on the road for personal registration, without insurance) is:

MINI Urbanite Edition:             RM 198,888.00

MINI Amplified Edition:           RM 248,888.00

 

More information on the New Limited Edition MINI Hatches in conjunction with Chinese New Year can be found atwww.mini.my/urbn-ampd

 

BMW Group Malaysia Delivers 12,680 Vehicles in 2017

BMW Group Malaysia has achieved its best performance in the country with a total of 12,680 units of BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad vehicles delivered in 2017. This is the premium automaker’s seventh consecutive all-time high performance, achieving a segment leading growth of 16% as compared to the same period in 2016 (10,906).

(L-R) Kidd Yam & Han

Han Sang Yun, Managing Director and CEO of BMW Group Malaysia (above, right) said, “We are humbled by this achievement. Our successful growth here in Malaysia is a result of our absolute commitment to the country as well as all our customers, dealers and their premium ownership experiences. We are committed more than ever to serve the country and the South East Asian region from Malaysia this year and set another benchmark with utmost excellence for the premium automotive industry here. Going into 2018, with the continued support of the Malaysian government, our customers and our strong dealership network, we will realise our investments and plans for the region here and we hope in sustaining this momentum and achieving yet another milestone for the Group and the country.”

(Forefront L-R) Han, Raymond & Sashi

The BMW brand grew by 18% in 2017, delivering a total of 10,618 BMW vehicles from 9,000 vehicles in 2016. The growth was predominantly driven by the BMW 3 Series with 3,564 units delivered – 2,408 of which are units of the BMW 330e and BMW 330e M Sport. The BMW X5 xDrive40e is also a key contributor of the brand’s performance, with over 3,000 units sold last year. The BMW 740Le xDrive which was introduced in the first half of 2017 took the concept of Driving Luxury to the Mobility of the Future and had over 400 units delivered.

The successful delivery of BMW’s electrified vehicles to customers in Malaysia continues to underline the company’s leadership role when it comes to electro-mobility and is an indication that Malaysians are ready for the newest technology in the automotive industry. Driving its product portfolio of BMW Hybrid vehicles with eDrive Technology forward, BMW Group Malaysia will continue to prioritize on infrastructure and mobility services in its strategy to make electric driving a more comfortable and convenient experience and a daily pleasure.

The launch of the all-new BMW 5 Series, the most progressive sport-business sedan, in the first half of 2017 also accelerated the brand’s sales with over 1,600 units delivered.

MINI also grew from strength to strength, achieving the brand’s best record performance in 2017 with 1,010 MINI vehicles delivered. This marks a 12% increase from the previous year (902). This feat continues to position MINI as the second fastest growing brand in the Malaysian premium segment and is now the third largest brand in the segment. Last year, MINI added the new MINI Countryman, MINI John Cooper Works Clubman and MINI John Cooper Works Countryman to its portfolio.

BMW Motorrad meanwhile, delivered a total of 1,052 units of its motorcycles, charting a 5% increase as compared to the previous year (1,004). 2017 saw the unveiling of five new motorcycles – the BMW S1000RR, BMW R1200GS, BMW K1600 GT and Bagger and BMW R nineT Urban GS.

Adding to the company’s commitment to deliver greater ownership experience for its customers, BMW Group Malaysia also introduced the Full Circle Programme by BMW Credit Malaysia, and the Roadside Assistance and Accident Hotline Program for BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad vehicles, on top of its existing premium offerings such as the BMW 5 Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty and Free Service Program, the BMW Tyre Warranty Program, and the MINI 4 Year Unlimited Mileage and Free Service Warranty program.

The leading premium automaker also opened its doors to its newest Regional Parts Distribution Centre facilities at the Free Trade Zone of the Senai International Airport of Iskandar Malaysia. The new regional facility, which is built on an investment of over RM 130million, is one of the largest of its kind in the Asia Pacific region and supports over 22 countries in the region. This is a testament to Malaysia being a key market for the BMW Group; a market that supports the Group’s strategic business direction in expanding its footprint in the region.

In 2018, BMW Group Malaysia will begin delivery of the first BMW 3 Series, BMW 5 Series and BMW 7 Series to Vietnam and the Philippines. To support the move, the BMW Assembly Plant in Kulim increased its local assembly capabilities to over 10,000 vehicles in 2017 with an investment of over RM 10million.

“This year is our 15th year of operations in Malaysia and we are very proud to have established ourselves as the leading provider of premium individual and sustainable mobility. We look forward to another year of growth in every aspect – from our sales to the maturity of our product portfolio to our leadership in electromobility and future mobility here in Malaysia,” said Han.

The success of BMW Group Malaysia mirrors that of the BMW Group worldwide. Globally, the premium automaker achieved a new all-time sales high with a total delivery of 2,463,526 vehicles. A seventh consecutive year of record sales. In 2017, the BMW brand saw a 4.2% boost in numbers with a total delivery of 2,088,283 vehicles while the MINI brand also charted a new sales record in 2017, growing 3.2% over the previous year with 371,881 deliveries. Sales across the BMW Motorrad range also increased by 13.2% with a total of 164,153 units delivered worldwide.

MINI Malaysia Reintroduces The Clubman “Sterling Edition” @ RM268,888

MINI Malaysia has announced the return of the MINI Clubman Sterling Edition, with only 40 units available exclusively online for booking at mini.my/clubman-sterling. The purposefully made, limited edition MINI with unprecedented aesthetics brimming with serene elegance, now features new premium technology to further maximize the driving experience for those who truly appreciate exclusivity.

Introducing the New MINI Clubman Sterling Edition, Mr. Han Sang Yun, Managing Director and CEO of BMW Group Malaysia said, “It was a first in the Malaysian automotive industry when we introduced the New MINI Clubman Sterling Edition exclusively online and we are pleased to see the successful delivery of all 20 units. Within less than two weeks of its introduction, the limited edition MINI was fully booked online thus proving that Malaysians appreciate the exclusivity of exceptionally well-made premium cars.

Because of the successful response, the New MINI Clubman Sterling Edition will make a comeback in celebration of the New Year, and with new technology for an even more unique experience. Indeed, the limited edition MINI has excited and made its mark in the premium compact segment and will continue to do so.”

The New MINI Clubman Sterling Edition will once again be exclusively available for booking online at mini.my/clubman-sterling beginning 11th January 2018. Once the flash sale goes live, customers will have to keep their eyes peeled for the right time to book their limited New MINI Clubman Sterling Edition. This is done by filling up the booking form on the page and making the booking fee payment when the time is right.

More on the Clubman Sterling – Exclusives. The New MINI Clubman Sterling Edition exudes characteristics of a modern gentlemen who is chivalrous, sophisticated and confident. This is realized through the exclusive Melting Silver body colour with subtle Matte Black Jack mirror caps and roof décor. This is complemented by Black Union Jack symbols located at the side scuttles as well as bespoke 18” MINI Yours Masterpiece wheels in burnish black.

Inside, the New Precious Metal wears a combination of Indigo Blue and Pure Burgundy tones. While seated on supple seats in luxurious Chester Leather upholstery in Indigo Blue, drivers and passengers will also enjoy the MINI Yours Illuminated Interior in Pure Burgundy. This premium ambience is further enhanced with the ability to choose from 12 pre-set colours to the trims, fitting to whatever the mood and liking of the driver and passengers. Additionally, the driver will enjoy the MINI Yours Walknappa Leather steering wheel, a representation of the best in British craftsmanship. The bottom of the steering wheel is also adorned with the signature Union Jack insignia.

Further maximizing the exclusive experience of the New MINI Clubman Sterling Edition is the MINI Navigation System with a high resolution 6.5” screen in the MINI Centre Instrument. This houses state-of-the-art technology and puts a wealth of navigation information at the driver’s fingertips, easily operated via the MINI Controller. The Parking Assist function, which automatically steers the car into parallel parking spaces as well as the Rear View Camera, which eases reversing in and out of tight spots are some of the premium technology maximizing the experience of driving a MINI.

Owners of the New MINI Clubman Sterling Edition will also enjoy MINI Connected, a state-of-the-art infotainment system featuring over 30 million songs streamed live to the car. The 6.5” high resolution LCD also presents an intuitive Spotify Interface on top of the standard readings such as current fuel consumption, current fuel range and last known locations which can also be viewed on the MINI Connected phone app.

The latest generation of MINI Touch Screen Display is the new highlight of the New MINI Clubman Sterling Edition. It supports multi-touch with pinch to zoom in functionality for maps and typing. The clean and modern user interface also features brand new animations.

MINI Roadside Assistance. The New MINI Clubman Sterling Edition is covered by MINI Malaysia’s 5 Years Roadside Assistance program, available for all new MINI vehicles with a comprehensive list of services that include a 24-Hour, 365-days-a-year Accident and Help on the Phone and On the Spot Hotline, Free Towing Services and when needed (over 200KM from residential home), Replacement Vehicle, Accommodation, Mobility Services Solutions as well as Repatriation services.

The MINI Roadside Assistance program can be accessed by contacting 1800-88-8808.

The New MINI Clubman Sterling Edition arrives with the MINI 4-Years Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Scheduled Service. The estimated retail price (on the road for personal registration, without insurance) is RM 268,888.00.

 

MINI will 3D print your accessories

MINI is known for it’s plethora of customisation options for it’s range of cars, but this time, it has taken it to another level. Through the online store, customers will have the option to tweak and adjust certain design aspects of trim elements to create unique products. These innovative upgrades will be available for UK customers throughout the course of 2018. 

Referred to as the MINI Yours Customised product range, custom work can be carried out on the side scuttles, trims for the interior passenger side, LED door sills and LED door projectors. Various colour combinations can be chosen to suit the items, text or signatures can also be added to these accessories. MINI will be able to accomplish all of these things through the use of it’s manufacturing processes.

These processes include 3D printing and laser etching systems. The automaker has teamed up with Hewlett-Packard (HP), to create these various trim pieces. As revolutionary as this maybe, MINI assures customers that the products that are sold through this programme adhere to it’s standards of quality and safety.

There are several different colour options to choose from, which include Aspen White matte, Chili Red matte, Starlight Blue matte, Moonwalk Grey matte and Jet Black matte. Based on the selected pattern and design, MINI will get to work creating these pieces that will undoubtedly make each and every car, different.

MINI introduce special edition 1499 GT

MINI is introducing a very special edition vehicle called the 1499 GT, all are bound for the UK market. It’s inception was inspired by the classic 1275 GT, which was based on the original Mini. The 1275 in the model name, was a direct reflection of the car’s engine capacity in cc, which was significantly larger than the standard Mini’s 998cc.

However, with the 1499 GT which is based on the current MINI One, This isn’t the case. The car doesn’t have a 1499cc engine, instead its the same 3-pot as the One but with a bit of a power bump. The automaker has slightly increaed the power, bringing the total to 102bhp.

The peppy turbocharged three-cylinder engine allows the car to sprint from 0-100km/h in 10.1 seconds, which isn’t quick by any means. Mated to it, is a 6-speed manual gearbox with sports-car inspired rev matching technology. The car also comes with disc brakes on all four corners that will allow for better stopping power.

There are several differences between the special edition MINI and the standard car, which include the John Cooper Works Sport Pack, 17” Track Spoke alloy wheels in Black and white indicator lenses. The styling pack includes distinctive John Cooper Works front and rear bumpers, side skirts, a split level spoiler and John Cooper Works door entry plates.

Its a similar story for the inside because the car gets John Cooper Works Sports seats in Dinamica and leather, JCW badges, a JCW steering wheel in perforated leather with Chilli Red stitching and multi-function controls, Piano Black interior trim as well as a Carbon Black interior details and an Anthracite headlining.

This John Cooper Works treatment extends to the performance aspect of the car as well because it benefits from a sports suspension. It is tuned to offer an experience that matches the looks of the sporty bits.

MINI will only be making 1,499 cars and they will be available in two different body colours, which are Pepper White or Midnight Black. In Midnight Black, the car gets gold 1499 GT side stripes, while the one in Pepper White, gets the same style graphics, but in black.

BMW posts record sales for first quarter of 2017

BMW has posted its strongest sales this quarter compared to the same period last year. According to the company, its top premium brands, BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce, saw a combined increase in total sales by 5.3% which amounts to 587,237 vehicles that have been sold globally. Its the first time that the German automaker has cracked half a million sales at such an early period in the year.

“We’ve achieved a strong start to the year, with our X-family models and the BMW 7 Series being the main growth drivers,” commented Dr Ian Robertson, Member of the BMW AG Board of Management with responsibility for Sales and Brand BMW. “March was the first full sales month for the new BMW 5 Series Sedan and the customer feedback for this benchmark car is already very positive,” he continued.

Sales of BMW vehicles alone totaled 503,445 vehicles in the first quarter of 2017 which is a 5.2% increase compared to the same period last year. There were a number of models that contributed to the company’s sales growth. In March, deliveries of the BMW X1 increased 21.0% (26,759), sales of the BMW X5 were up 20.7% (17,678) while deliveries of the flagship BMW 7 Series grew 74.8% (7,134).

BMW’s electric line of vehicles helped bolster sales further as the company shifted 20,000 of these vehicles to customers world wide since early 2017. These sales figures are double of what were reported last year, which is proof of the growing popularity of electric vehicles. BMW i3 sales have been off to a positive start this year and the same can be said about the newly launched plug-in hybrid 530e iPerformance.

MINI branded vehicles also contributed to the overall sales growth by posting a 6.1% increase which is 83,059 vehicles sold since January. Sales of the MINI Clubman alone rose to 21% in the first quarter compared with the same period last year, which means that it is becoming a favorite among car buyers. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars had a good quarter too by posting a 33% increase in sales since January. Despite the economic situation and the volatility of the current vehicle market, there is still a strong demand for Rolls-Royce cars and the company is confident that this sales growth will be sustainable for the near future.

BMW Motorrad, the automaker’s two-wheeler arm, managed a total sales volume of 35,636 vehicles which is a 5.5% increase overall this quarter. Based on what we have seen, 2017 seems to be shaping up to be a good year for a number of automakers. Let’s hope that the surge in sales also brings with it better and improved vehicles in the not so distant future.

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