Since 2017, Honda has incorporated active grille shutters in models like the Odyssey. This system is designed to enhance aerodynamics by utilising vents to regulate airflow through the grille to the cooling system and engine compartment.
The active grille shutters are positioned in front of the radiator and consist of motorised vanes that can move to either allow or block airflow. Controlled by the car’s engine control module, these vanes can be adjusted to various positions, ranging from fully closed to fully open, depending on the cooling air requirements for the condenser and radiator.
When airflow is necessary to cool the engine, the vents open, and when no airflow is needed, they shut. This dynamic adjustment significantly reduces aerodynamic drag, providing benefits in terms of fuel efficiency and emissions reduction. When fully closed, the active grille shutters can contribute to a 2% reduction in CO2 emissions.
Additionally, the system keeps the vanes closed for as long as possible during cold starts, helping the engine reach its most efficient operating temperature quickly and contributing an extra 0.3% to fuel efficiency.
The interior is spacious and provides excellent comfort. To enhance the comfort level, it comes with Honda’s body stabilising seats. This is the first CR-V to use Honda’s body stabilising seat for front passengers.
The enhanced structure in the back of the seat increases lumbar and pelvic support to create a body-stabilising effect. This helps to prevent fatigue, particularly in the hip and waist area of occupants on longer journeys.
Additionally, the new structure makes it easier to maintain a comfortable and stable driving posture, even when cornering and on uneven road surfaces.
The next-generation body stabilising seat, which Honda developed to use for its high-end sedan models, was first available on the fourth-generation Jazz that was unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show back in 2019.
Di tengah-tengah trend global pengelektrikan dan transformasi digital yang meluas, banyak jenama melangkah ke arah pengembangan antarabangsa dengan kelajuan dan skala yang belum pernah terjadi sebelum ini, terutamanya dalam industri automotif dengan negara Malaysia memegang kedudukan penting sebagai pasaran utama dalam perjalanan pengembangan ini.
JAECOO merupakan sebuah jenama global, di bawah jenama Chery, direka khas untuk pengembangan pasaran antarabangsa, dengan matlamat untuk menyediakan produk yang menyerlah kepada golongan profesional baru, memberi tumpuan kepada pilihan gaya hidup bertaraf tinggi. JAECOO berkomitmen untuk membina SUV gaya terkini luar jalan raya di dalam segmen premium.
JAECOO akan diperkenalkan kepada rakyat Malaysia tidak lama lagi, dan dua unit pertama JAECOO J7 AWD pandu kanan baru-baru ini telah tiba di Malaysia untuk ujian jalan raya untuk memenuhi piawaian prestasi dan keselamatan tertinggi. Ini termasuk previu eksklusif kepada wakil pengedar sah dan pelabur yang berpotensi menjelang pembukaan bilik pameran, serta permulaan inisiatif pemasaran pra-pengenalan awal untuk meningkatkan minat terhadap jenama dan kenderaan ini menjelang pengenalan rasmi ke pasaran Malaysia pada tahun 2024.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia telah melancarkan SUV elektrik EQE 500 4MATIC baru, direka untuk pengalaman pemanduan dinamik, ruang dalaman yang luas, dan ciri-ciri canggih. Dengan penampilan SUV sporty, termasuk roda 21 inci AMG dan penambahbaikan aerodinamik, EQE SUV menggabungkan gaya dengan kebolehgunaan.
Di dalam, EQE SUV menawarkan konfigurasi lima tempat duduk yang luas dan boleh disesuaikan, memberikan pengalaman pemanduan yang selesa dan mewah. Suspensi udara AIRMATIC memastikan pemanduan yang lancar, menyesuaikan diri dengan pelbagai keadaan pemanduan untuk keselesaan optimum.
Dari segi prestasi, EQE SUV menampilkan drivetrain elektrik dengan jarak perjalanan yang mengagumkan sejauh 552km, keluaran kuasa 402hp yang kuat, dan penggerak all-wheel-drive 4MATIC, memberikan kecekapan dan prestasi.
Dari segi keselamatan dan keselesaan, EQE SUV dilengkapi dengan Pakej Bantuan Pemanduan Plus, menyediakan pelbagai ciri keselamatan. Ruang dalaman ini mempunyai pelbagai gaya display, sistem bunyi Dolby Atmos, dan pilihan pengecasan inovatif, termasuk pengecasan cepat dengan kapasiti 95 kW untuk cas pantas 10%-80% dalam masa kurang dari 30 minit.
Untuk fleksibiliti pemilikan, Mercedes-Benz menawarkan Pelan Step Up Agility+, bermula dari RM 3,988 sebulan. Pelan ini menyediakan pelbagai faedah, termasuk ansuran bulanan yang lebih rendah, pilihan fleksibel di akhir perjanjian, dan nilai masa depan yang dijamin untuk kenderaan. Sebagai insentif tambahan, mereka yang mendaftar untuk Pelan Step Up Agility+ akan menerima kredit pengecasan tambahan RM900 melalui JomCharge.
Mercedes-Benz EQE 500 4MATIC SUV dijual pada harga RM 485,888 dengan 10% Cukai Jualan untuk Semenanjung Malaysia, menawarkan pilihan yang menarik untuk individu yang mencari prestasi, nilai, dan ketenangan jiwa di jalan.
Volkswagen telah mengambil keputusan untuk memberikan pembangunan SUV dan trak elektrik Scout yang akan datang kepada Magna Steyr dalam satu perjanjian bernilai €450 juta (RM2,307,289,475). Pengenalan semula jenama Scout diumumkan pada Mei 2022, dengan rancangan untuk membawa trak pikap dan SUV elektrik ke pasaran menjelang 2026. Dalam perkembangan terkini, Volkswagen telah memilih Magna Steyr, pengeluar kontrak yang berpengalaman yang berpusat di Austria, untuk mengendalikan aspek kejuruteraan penting bagi kenderaan elektrik ini.
Magna Steyr mempunyai reputasi kukuh dalam industri ini kerana pengalamannya yang meluas dalam pengeluaran kontrak, dengan terlibat dalam penyusunan pelbagai model kereta untuk pembuat kereta yang berbeza, termasuk Mercedes-Benz G-Class yang ikonik dan model untuk Toyota, BMW, Jaguar, dan Fisker, antara lain.
Volkswagen Group has reportedly decided to externalise the development of its upcoming Scout electric SUV and truck, opting for Magna Steyr to engineer the two models in exchange for €450 million (approximately RM2,307,300,007). This significant development contract marks a notable collaboration between the German automotive giant and Magna Steyr, a renowned contract manufacturer based in Graz, Austria.
The revival of the Scout brand by Volkswagen was announced in May 2022, with plans to introduce an electric pickup truck and SUV in 2026. Subsequent developments included the appointment of CEO Scott Keogh in July, the announcement of a new assembly plant in Blythewood, South Carolina, and the appointment of Chris Benjamin as Chief of Design in May 2023. The project has now taken a new turn with the decision to externalise the development process.
Magna Steyr, known for its extensive experience in contract manufacturing, is tasked with engineering the electric SUV and truck for Scout Motors. The €450 million agreement positions Magna Steyr as a key player in the development of these EVs. The company, which has been assembling vehicles since the late 1970s, has built various models, including the iconic Mercedes-Benz G-Class, and is currently involved in the production of models like the Toyota Supra/BMW Z4, Jaguar’s E-Pace and I-Pace, and the Fisker Ocean.
The first-ever SUV in Ferrari’s 75-year history was revealed in September 2022. Now, thanks to Ital Auto Malaysia Sdn Bhd, the official importer and distributor of Ferrari cars in Malaysia, it finally entered the Malaysian market. Ferrari has taken time to ensure that the driving dynamics and performance allow the Purosangue to have the Prancing Horse on its bonnet.
To achieve its ambitious goals for the Purosangue project, Ferrari developed a completely different layout. The mid-front-mounted engine has the gearbox at the rear, adopting a transaxle layout. The Power Transfer Unit (PTU) provides an all-wheel-drive transmission, resulting in a 49:51 weight distribution optimal for a mid-front-engined sports car.
The Purosangue’s engine, adapted from the 812 Superfast engine (F140IA), is the most powerful ever developed by Ferrari for a 4-seater car. It features a 65° angle between cylinder banks, a 6.5-litre capacity, a dry sump, and high-pressure direct injection. Tuned for high torque at low revs, it produces 80% of maximum torque at 2,100 rpm, peaking at 716Nm at 6,250 rpm, with a maximum power output of 725PS at 7,750 rpm.
The 8-speed, oil-bath dual-clutch transmission has a compact layout with reduced height, contributing to enhanced handling. The transmission’s gear shift times are reduced, with new gear ratios having shorter spacing, and a longer top ratio for greater highway economy.
Aerodynamics played a crucial role in the Purosangue’s design. The bodywork underwent aero development similar to other Ferrari sports cars, with features like an air curtain to aerodynamically seal the front wheels and manage turbulent transverse air flows.
The car’s aero design focused on the centreline section, reducing drag and achieving a seamless profile between the bonnet and windscreen. Elements like the suspended spoiler and nolder on the boot lip contribute to managing flow separations and pressure fields, ensuring stability.
The Purosangue features an advanced chassis with a spaceframe made of high-strength aluminium alloy for reduced weight. The carbon fibre roof is standard, providing rigidity similar to a glass roof but weighing 20% less than an aluminium roof with soundproofing.
In terms of dynamics, the Purosangue adopts the latest control systems, including independent 4-wheel steering and ABS ‘evo’ with the 6-way Chassis Dynamic Sensor. The active suspension system, making its world debut, effectively controls body roll and tire contact patch over high-frequency bumps, delivering performance and handling response consistent with other Ferraris.
The cabin accommodates four generously sized seats, and the driver benefits from a commanding view. The interior architecture follows the dual cockpit dashboard concept, offering a digital interface with a 10.2-inch display. For the first time in Ferrari’s history, the cabin has four separate and independently adjustable seats, integrating comfort-focused components and variable density foams for unprecedented occupant comfort. The Purosangue’s interior combines sportiness and luxury in a layout inspired by the SF90 Stradale.
The interior of the Ferrari Purosangue introduces a range of innovative features, showcasing the brand’s commitment to luxury, sustainability, and customisation. Owners can opt for a floor trim made from high-strength fabric used in military uniforms, ensuring exceptional toughness and durability.
A new dark brown semi-aniline leather adds an elegant and contemporary touch to the interior. The availability of a carbon fibre weave with integrated copper wire provides a sophisticated take on traditional carbon fibre elements. The SUV boasts the largest boot volume ever seen in a Ferrari, complemented by an electrically activated rear hatch for convenient access.
Sustainability takes centre stage, with 85% of the launch trim produced from recycled materials, including a special version of Alcantara made from 68% post-consumer recycled polyester. Owners have extensive customisation options, including the ability to personalise the roof, a first for Ferrari. Furthermore, the Purosangue features an air quality sensor, a groundbreaking addition to the Ferrari range, ensuring a clean and healthy environment inside the cabin.
Ferrari’s unparalleled quality standards and increasing focus on client service underpin the extended seven-year maintenance programme offered with the Purosangue. Available across the entire range, the latter covers all regular maintenance for the first seven years of the car’s life. This scheduled maintenance programme for Ferraris is an exclusive service that allows clients the certainty that their car is being kept at peak performance and safety over the years. This very special service is also available to owners of pre-owned Ferraris.
All Ferrari owners in Malaysia can perform regular maintenance (at intervals of either 20,000 km or once a year with no mileage restrictions) with Genuine Spare Parts at Ital Auto’s Official Aftersales Centre in Glenmarie, Kuala Lumpur. As part of the Official Dealership Network, the centre is fully equipped with Ferrari Diagnostic equipment and is manned by highly-trained personnel, including Certified Master Technicians with over 10 years of experience in servicing Ferrari vehicles.
Want one? Well, if you have deep pockets, the Ferrari Purosangue is available in Malaysia from RM5,000,000.00 inclusive of duties and taxes.
BYD is gearing up to reveal its latest addition to the family of battery-electric vehicles, the Sea Lion 07. The unveiling is scheduled for November 17 at the Guangzhou Auto Show in China. Teasers in the form of sketches suggest that the Sea Lion 07 will join BYD’s ‘Ocean’ series, which already features models like the Seal, Dolphin, and Seagull.
Design cues for the Sea Lion 07 seem to draw inspiration from BYD’s Ocean-X sedan concept. Led by former Audi and Lamborghini designer Wolfgang Egger, the Sea Lion exhibits a compact SUV design, distinguishing itself from its predecessors like the Seal SUV. The front showcases sharp LED headlights and daytime running lights, contributing to a more aggressive look with angular air intakes.
A side sketch of the Sea Lion 07 reveals a coupe SUV silhouette, marked by dramatic curves and creases along the doors. While reminiscent of the Cupra Formentor, the BYD model positions its cabin farther forward. The rear design features aggressive elements with sharp edges and angular LED taillights, akin to the Atto 3.
Technical specifications are yet to be disclosed, leaving enthusiasts curious about its capabilities. However, early estimations suggest a starting price of around 190,000 yuan (RM122k). Closer to home, from the ‘Ocean’ lineup, we have the BYD Dolphin from RM99,900. Click here to find out why it should be your first EV.
BYD officially launched its latest offering, the BAO 5, under the specialised sub-brand FANGCHENGBAO. Positioned as a “Super Hybrid Hardcore SUV,” the BAO 5 stands out with cutting-edge technology, off-road prowess, and a commitment to energy efficiency.
The BAO 5 introduces the Dual Mode Off-road (DMO) Super Hybrid Platform, a revolutionary predominantly electric-driven, professional-grade off-road system. With an unparalleled combination of power sources, it features the world’s first longitudinal EHS electric hybrid system, an off-road rear-drive powertrain, and a potent longitudinal 1.5T high-performance engine. This configuration delivers an impressive 677hp of power and 760Nm of combined torque, enabling the BAO 5 to accelerate from 0 to 100km in just four seconds.
Designed for off-road enthusiasts, the BAO 5 showcases exceptional off-road capabilities with a millisecond-response electric four-wheel drive system offering 16 driving modes. This allows effortless navigation across diverse terrains, from rugged mountains to swampy landscapes, while maintaining an impressive minimum turning radius of 3.4 meters.
Ensuring robustness and safety, the BAO 5 features a Non-Load-Bearing Frame with Cell To Chassis (CTC) technology, providing a lower center of mass and a balanced 50:50 axle load ratio. The chassis is reinforced with 96% high-strength steel to prioritize user safety. The vehicle incorporates the ultra-safe blade battery and is equipped with an L2+ Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) for enhanced safety.
Inside the smart cockpit, the BAO 5 offers a luxurious driving experience with the exclusive FiLink UI, supporting multi-screen interconnection and gesture operation. Users can personalise their experience with various customisation options, including paint colours, interior schemes, wheel hub sizes, and pedal choices. Nappa leather seats and an 18-speaker Devialet audio system further elevate the driving experience.
Leveraging the advantages of the DMO platform, the BAO 5 achieves a Comprehensive Long Trip Capability (CLTC) range of up to 1,200km. This, combined with a 6kW vehicle-to-load (VTL) discharge capability and an optional 2.5-ton trailer hitch, enhances the vehicle’s suitability for extended outdoor activities.
FANGCHENGBAO’s strategic focus on professionalism and individuality is evident with the BAO 5 launch. The brand operates various store types, including sales service centres, MINI centres, and retail centres, catering to diverse consumer needs. The BAO 5 joins FANGCHENGBAO’s product lineup, alongside the previously unveiled BAO 8 and BAO 3 models.
The expansion of Toyota’s Crown family underscores the company’s dedication to this iconic nameplate, originally introduced in 1955. Following the success of the high-riding Crown sedan launched in the U.S. last year, Toyota has now introduced the Crown Sport crossover in Japan. Moreover, the Crown family will soon encompass a low-slung sedan and an SUV, both set to be available in Japan in November and early next year.
Measuring 4,720mm in length and 1,880mm in width, the Crown Sport holds a prominent position in the realm of SUVs like the BMW X3. It offers generous space for both passengers and cargo while maintaining a dynamic and sleek profile. The distinguishing feature of the Crown SUV is its lower stance, showcasing Toyota’s commitment to achieving a balance between design, performance, and practicality.
