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Mazda to complete electrification of products by 2030, with major focus on European markets

Mazda Motor Corporation will be expanding its SUV line-up from 2022 onwards. While the popular CX-5 will remain one of the core models globally, alongside with models such as the CX-30, the company has finalised development of additional models in the Large Product Group.

These models, including two new ones – the CX-60 and CX-80 – will be aimed at European and American markets, together with the new wide-bodied CX-70 and CX-90. The new models will be introduced throughout Europe during the next two years.

Featuring 2-row and 3-row seating, respectively, the CX-60 and CX-80 will also spearhead the European introduction of plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models that use 4-cylinder petrol engines combined with an electric motor. There will also be the new generation straight-six SKYACTIV-X petrol engine and SKYACTIV-D turbodiesel engine incorporating a 48V mild hybrid system. These engines will have high output while also achieving excellent environmental performance.

The new CX-60 and CX-80 are expected to create positive business growth over the medium to long term. They will make full use of Mazda’s Building Block development and production strategy. This strategy enables the carmaker to efficiently develop and deploy superior technologies by building up a set of fundamental technologies as ‘blocks’. Some of the technologies are already familiar – like SKYACTIV technology – with bundled planning and flexible production.

In addition, during the first half of 2022, a new version of Mazda’s first mass-production EV, the MX-30, will be introduced. This model incorporates multiple electrification technologies that use Mazda’s famed rotary engine as a generator.

From around 2025, the company will introduce a number of new products on a new EV-dedicated platform. With the introduction of these models, Mazda is on track to complete the electrification of its complete range by 2030.

*CX-30 and CX-5, two of the Mazda SUVs available in Malaysia.*

To know more about Mazda models available in Malaysia, visit www.mazda.com.my.

Quality pre-owned Mazda vehicles available at the new Mazda Anshin website

New Michelin LTX Trail for growing SUV and pick-up market

Michelin, as a leader with a long history in the tyre industry, offers tyres for all types of vehicles… even spacecraft. With over 130 years of experience in making tyres, the company has built up its technological knowledge to develop the best tyres for each sector.

For the growing SUV sector, Michelin Malaysia has recently introduced the Michelin LTX Trail tyre, specifically designed for SUVs and also applicable for use on pick-up trucks. This new tyre has extended lifespan, with excellent wet braking performance – even when worn – for long-lasting safety. It is suitable for highway use as well as on unpaved roads and unlike many such tyres, it also generates lower noise levels for a more comfortable ride.

The extended lifespan can provide up to 41% longer mileage, thanks to the RallyForce2 Tread Compound. This makes the tyre more durable so it can give maximum service life, even with off-road use. The new tread design is also a contributory factor with the Biting Shoulder that wraps from the tread down the sidewall. This results in better protection against sidewall aggression and ensures greater off-road performance and traction.

Variable Thickness Sipes (those small slits in tyres) provide improved contact patch that enhances handling and grip. Braking performance is also better, even on wet roads. When compared to its premium competitors, the LTX Trail has been able to stop 3.1 metres shorter when new, and 4.6 metres shorter when worn. On dry roads, when new, it stops 3.8 metres shorter. The sipes are deep so even the tyre is worn, the performance remains consistent and high.

Quietness is not always a strong point of tyres for SUVs and pick-up trucks. However, factory tests show that the LTX Trail has 19.8% lower sound pressure level. This is thanks to Duo-Harmony Blocks featuring two different block shapes in the tread’s centre that spread the noise generated across a wider spectrum.

The Michelin LTX tyres are suitable for SUVs like the Toyota Fortuner (above) and pick-up trucks like the Nissan Navara, Isuzu D-MAX and Ford Ranger (below).

“At Michelin, we are constantly innovating to enable people to move around more freely, safely; and to live a better life in motion. The new Michelin LTX Trail is a great match for the increasing popularity of SUVs, which is projected to grow 5.6% year-on-year, from 2021 to 2026. Perfect for consumers who own 4×2 and 4×4 high-rise pickups, as well as SUVs – such as Toyota Hilux, Toyota Fortuner, and Nissan Navara – these tyres also cater to those whose lifestyle demands the ability to reach on- and off-road destinations, for work or pleasure,” said Oliver Biggart, Managing Director of Michelin Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei.

“We are confident that the new MICHELIN LTX Trail gives drivers in Malaysia a safe and comfortable ride on the road, across a variety of terrain – ranging from city commuting, wet road, highway driving, to light and moderate off-road,” added Mr. Biggart.

For the Malaysia market, the LTX Trail is offered in 9 sizes to fit with rim dimensions ranging between 15 and 18 inches. It is available at Michelin’s authorized tyre dealers nationwide. For more information on the Michelin tyre range and location of dealers, visit the Michelin Malaysia website.

Michelin’s airless UPTIS tyre now undergoing testing, market launch in 2024

Suzuki Jimny returns to Malaysian market as fourth generation, priced from RM168,900

Following the Suzuki Swift Sport that marked the return of the Suzuki car brand to Malaysia, Naza Eastern Motors (NEM), the official distributor, has now begun importing the Jimny compact SUV. Equally iconic as the Swift, the Jimny has a long history and its first generation predecessor was on sale in Malaysia as far back as the 1970s.

The first generation Jimny was truly a mini SUV, measuring about 3.2 metres long and 1.4 metres wide. With an 800 cc engine, its kerb weight was only 787 kgs which was advantageous on soft ground. Contractors loved it as it was ideal for going around construction sites and could even take rough terrain with its simple 4×4 system.

*An advertisement in the 1970s for the first generation*

Later versions of the first generation with various bodystyles, including a high roof, broadened the popularity of the model. However, by the third generation, the price had jumped significantly and although it was available, the numbers sold were very small.

The latest 4^th generation has been around for about 3 years and when it was launched, many saw its appearance to be like a mini G-Wagen (the Mercedes-Benz SUV). In fact, there are aftermarket accessories to make it look like the German SUV. The price went up even more and NEM is offering it at RM168,900 (excluding sales tax) and for those who wonder, the price of the first generation was around RM17,500.

Of course, the Jimny has come a long way technically and has many modern technologies. It no longer uses a kei-class engine but a K15B 1.5-litre petrol engine. NEM is importing on the version with a 4-speed automatic transmission but you do get 4×4. And like the traditional SUVs, there’s even a transfer case with 2WD/4WD high range and 4×4 low range that enables very low speeds in difficult terrain.

The construction also follows traditional SUVs with a body-on-chassis (BOC) frame. Suzuki could probably have used a monocoque approach but may have used the BOC method for ‘traditional’ reasons. There’s nothing wrong with the BOC structure which is better for heavy loads though it may be slightly less comfortable. The coil spring suspension is a simple layout with a3-link rigid axle layout.

The size of the latest Jimny, which has only 2 side doors, has grown to 3.6 metres long and 1.6 metres wide. It has generous ground clearance of 210 mm, with good clearance angles for better off-road capability. It has also become heavier, with a kerb weight in the region of 1,095 kgs.

The original Jimny was a pretty bare vehicle with uncovered metal panels around the cabin. Today’s Jimny is, however, as comfortable and well equipped as a passenger car (which partly accounts for why its costs so much more). The 4-seater space is snug but has air-conditioning, a leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel and a touchscreen infotainment system which supports Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth, handsfree telephony and audio functions.

Like all SUVs, there are practical storage spaces but the compact external dimensions will already indicate that you can’t have a lot of cargo space. Nevertheless, the rear seats can be folded to 830 provide up to 820 litres of volume.

The Suzuki designers chose to retain the side-hinged rear door as well as spare wheel mounted on the door, two elements which follow the classic 4×4 SUV look. Over the past 15 years, as SUVs evolved into more passenger-like vehicles, the styling changed and designers switched to a top-hinged door (partly also for safety reasons) and decided that there was no need to add engineering complexity with the spare wheel hung on the door.

The Jimny also has all the safety systems expected of a vehicle today. Electronic Stability Control will be helpful in slippery conditions and of course, there’s ABS and also hill-descent control, the latter letting the computer safely control the vehicle as it moves down a slope. Parents with small children will appreciate the ISOFIX points behind for ease of installing compatible childseats.

Fresh coffee wherever you want it with Suzuki Jimny Beans

Second generation of Honda BR-V has global debut from Indonesia

It was no secret that the N7X Concept shown earlier in the year was a sneak preview of the new Honda BR-V (although the carmaker didn’t say so). Now Honda has finally unveiled the production model online from Indonesia where its global production hub is located. This is the second time that Indonesia is the location for the global debut of the model which was launched in August 2015. However, it was only in May 2017 that it was finally launched in Malaysia.

The second generation of the crossover SUV not only has fresh new looks but, just like the first City and the second one, it appears that Honda took in a lot of feedback from owners to make improvements to the model. Features which may have taken another generation before being available in the BR-V are included as well as the Honda SENSING driver assistance system.

Honda has not provided dimensions but from the pictures, it seems the new BR-V has grown very slightly, or it could be just the body lines giving that impression. The frontal appearance has gained a bolder look with a distinctive grille flanked by LED headlamps with LEF day running lights. The rear end has new combination lights with LED Light Bars designed to blend in with the body line.

Like the first generation, the second generation of the BR-V also has generous ground clearance. This is something which carmakers who understand the Indonesian market know is an important point. Besides rough roads in the rural areas, there are also floods and being able to cross deep water is appreciated.

*Global debut of the first generation in 2015.*

*Honda N7X Concept shown earlier this year as a preview of the new BR-V.*

The original concept of the BR-V was to combine the design and toughness of an SUV and within, offer the cabin comfort and functionality of an MPV. This concept is retained for the second generation with increased comfort levels and more functionality. There are three rows of seats for up to 7 persons. The use of leather lining has also been added in the cabin for a more premium feel. Storage areas have been increased too, with more power outlets. The driver is provided all the necessary information on a 4.2-inch Thin-Film Transistor (TFT) display, supplemented by a 7-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system.

Owners of the new BR-V will enjoy more convenience with features such as Remote Engine Start, Walk-Away Auto Lock function, Smart Entry System and auto-folding door mirrors. With the auto-lock function, the doors will lock automatically when the driver has walked at least 2 metres or more from the car.

In safety too, the new BR-V makes a big leap with the inclusion of Honda SENSING. This is a suite of assistance systems to help the driver avoid an accident or act automatically to prevent the accident. These systems, already available in the other models, include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping, automatic emergency braking and automatic headlight high beam control. Also included now are Hill Start Assist, Vehicle Stability Assist and side airbags (besides the front ones).

Also of note is the addition of Honda LaneWatch, a blindspot monitoring system that makes use of a camera on the left side of the car. The mirror is mounted on the door mirror and captures real-time imagery of the area along the side of the car, displaying it on the screen on the dashboard. It is only active when the left turn signal is on, and the imagery is clear even at night.

The new BR-V continues to use a 1.5-litre DOHC i-VTEC petrol engine (improved, of course) with maximum output of 121 ps/145 Nm. Customers can choose a manual transmission or a new CVT which delivers power to the front wheels.

Over 255,000 units have been sold since the model was launched in Indonesia, of which around 30% were delivered in the Indonesian market. While the City is Honda Malaysia’s strongest seller, the BR-V has also had its own following among families with its 7-person cabin and entry-level pricing. Until July this year, over 35,000 units have been assembled in Malaysia.

Honda Malaysia has mentioned that a new model will be launched before the year ends and this new one could be it. Given the need to pump up interest for people to shop for cars again, Honda Malaysia is unlikely to wait two years to launch the new BR-V, as was the case with the first generation.

To know more about Honda models in Malaysia, visit www.honda.com.my.

World premiere of Honda N7X Concept in Indonesia previews next BR-V 7-seater

BRABUS claims ‘fastest street-legal SUV’ title with new GLE63-based 900 ROCKET EDITION

Various carmakers have been laying claim to offering the ‘fastest SUV’ and certainly they are all very fast machines. But once a tuner like BRABUS decides to also join in the quest for bragging rights, all best can be off. As an independent tuner without the demands of having to produce large volumes, BRABUS can push the envelope further and it has done this with another 900 ROCKET EDITION, this one derived from the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC+ Coupe. An earlier 900 ROCKET EDITION was based on the Mercedes-AMG G63.

Unveiled today at the Monaco Yacht Show, this is the world’s fastest street-legal SUV with a top speed of 330 km/h. Only 25 units will be available, each priced from 381,243 euros (ex-factory from Germany) which converts to almost RM1.875 million.

The super SUV’s V8 engine having increased displacement to 4407 cc (from 3982 cc). This has been achieved by enlarging the piston bores. With the addition of an efficient high-performance forced induction system, this engine produces a peak output of up to 888 bhp and can generate 1,250 Nm of torque but is limited to 1,050 Nm.

The higher output enables the 900 ROCKET EDITION to get to 100 km/h from standstill in a claimed 3.2 seconds. The real top speed is not known as BRABUS has put in an electronic speed-limiter that doesn’t allow the car to go beyond 330 km/h.

The 900 ROCKET EDITION will definitely not be mistaken for the car it is derived from with exposed-carbonfibre aerodynamic-enhancement components and the custom BRABUS wheels (24-inch Monoblock Z PLATINUM EDITION forged wheels) with carbonfibre aero-discs.

The engine modification also includes larger downpipes with a diameter of 75 mm as well as metal catalysts and special particulate filters. The stainless sport exhaust system with integrated exhaust flaps and two BRABUS titanium/carbonfibre tailpipes protrude on either side of the vehicle. The system offers an active sound management with a throaty V8 sound when the system is open or a subtle whisper in ‘Coming Home’ mode so you don’t wake the neighbours.

The BRABUS control module for the air suspension, which lowers the ride height by about 25 mm, additionally contributes to the outstandingly agile handling for an SUV. It not only gives the all-wheel car a more thrilling visual stance, but also further enhances the driving dynamics thanks to lowering the centre of gravity.

Inside the 4×4 fastback SUV, there are the usual signature fine leather appointments with many personalisation options available for customers. In the first unit shown in the pictures, there is grey leather upholstery matching the outer skin. The seat centre sections and the inner sections of the door panels feature square quilting applied with pinpoint precision and additional perforations.

To match the red brake calipers and the two likewise red signature stripes in the radiator grille, the leather features red contrasting highlights. In addition, all trim pieces in the cockpit sport red glazing. The same colour is also used for the pedals, door pins and the RACE paddle shifters on the steering wheel.

Being the specialist that it is, with a history of almost 45 years, BRABUS has the engineering expertise to upgrade performance reliably and safely. They are confident in what they do and give a 3 years/100,000 kms Tuning Warranty for the ROCKET 900 EDITION.

The other side of the BRABUS business – armoured SUVs

Vaccination does not make you immune to COVID-19 infection. You can still get infected but you may not show symptoms or feel sick – but you can spread the coronavirus to others. Do not stop taking protective measures such as wearing a facemask, washing hands frequently and social distancing.

‘Ignite Edition’ of 2021 Mazda CX-9 now on sale, priced from RM320,000

It’s been a while since we heard about updates for the Mazda range distributed in Malaysia by Bermaz Motor. The last time was in April for the latest MX-5 RF and Mazda6, and a month earlier, the company also announced that bookings for the new CX-3 were accepted.

Now comes the updated CX-9, flagship of Mazda’s SUV range, which gets cosmetic as well as technical upgrades. The 3-row SUV is available in two variants – 2WD and AWD – both using the SKYACTIV-G 2.5 turbocharged petrol engine with an output of 228 ps/420 Nm and a 6-speed SKYACTIV-Drive automatic transmission.

Peninsular Malaysia pricing (without insurance and with 50% exemption on sales tax) is from RM319,847.40 for the 2WD variant and RM336,215.40 for the AWD variant. All new vehicles come with a 5-year warranty (or maximum of 100,000 kms) and also free maintenance service for the first 5 years (or maximum of 100,000 kms).

The 2021 CX-9 is now available in the ‘Ignite Edition’ which features gloss black door outer mirrors, gloss black for the new front grille design, and 20-inch black metallic aluminium alloy wheels as standard. LED headlights with auto-levelling, LED daytime running lights and taillights, and rain-sensing windshield wipers are also standard. Body colours available are Soul Red Crystal, Machine Gray, Snowflake White Pearl, Sonic Silver, Deep Crystal Blue and Jet Black.

The interior features burgundy-coloured leather seats and black interior trim on the dash, door panels and handle bezels. The infotainment system now has wireless Apple CarPlay along with Android Auto capabilities for easier connectivity with smartphones. Also new are a wireless charger (if you have a phone with the capability) and paddle shifters.

Other standard features include a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, 3-zone automatic climate control, 10 power adjustments for the driver’s seat with memory positioning, interior LED accents, Bluetooth handsfree phone and audio pairing, keyless entry and push-button start.

As the flagship model, the CX-8 gets an advanced package of safety systems which Mazda calls i-Activsense. These help the driver to avoid accidents and can also automatically respond in dangerous situations by applying the brakes. Mazda Radar Cruise Control allows the driver to enjoy long-distance motoring as a safe gap will always be maintained even when a speed has been set for cruising.

Other systems in i-Activesense include Adaptive LED Headlights, Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning with Lane-Keep Assist and Driver Attention Alert.

To know more about the new CX-9 and other Mazda models in Malaysia, visit www.mazda.com.my.

Soul Red and the importance of paint finish to Mazda designers

2022 Citroen C5 X – a multi-design SUV

While SUVs are still very popular around the world, the designs have settled on a few common forms, depending on the segment. For Citroen, which has long designed its cars with a degree of uniqueness, looking for a new styling concept was the challenge given to the designers. The new model would have to combine the modernity and appeal of an SUV, the elegance and status of a saloon, and the versatility and practicality of a station wagon.

SUV with alternative design concept
Their proposal is the new C5 X which meets the expectations of customers wanting large tourers and those who are also looking for a more modern and stylish alternative to more traditional SUV’s, saloon and stationwagon models. “With the all-new C5 X, Citroen is revisiting the spirit of touring – the ability to travel in an elegant, refined car and set off to discover the world with complete peace of mind,” said Vincent Cobee, CEO of Citroen.

The bodystyle of the C5 X is muscular with optimised aerodynamics to reduce fuel consumption, with a streamlined profile drawing inspiration from aeronautics. The fluidity of the bodystyle is emphasised by the car’s tight, muscular volume. The extended bonnet, the high beltline and the rear wheel flare give it distinction, dynamism and sturdiness, common among Citroen’s larger vehicles.

The streamlined profile combines with a raised ride height and large diameter alloy wheels to give a more commanding view than would be available in a saloon or stationwagon. Around the wheel arches, vertical surfacing detail enhances the vehicle’s character. They highlight the large-diameter wheels while ensuring that air flows along the length of the body.

Coupe-inspired roofline
The elongated coupe-inspired sloping roofline ends with a ‘floating’ aerodynamic spoiler to further enhance the dynamic silhouette. The impression of a ‘floating roof’ is further enhanced through gloss black a-pillars, door pillar trims and dark tinted rear. As an option, customers choose a bi-tone Perla Nera Black roof for a more stylish appearance.

The LED V-shaped lighting signature representing Citroen’s new identity echoes the 3D rear light signature for greater consistency. The upper chevrons highlight the end of the bonnet and stretch right up to the LED daytime running lights, highlighting the width of the front end. The lower chevrons stretch up to the LED headlights and daytime running lights for a high-tech look.

A close look at the lighting signature will reveal real attention to detail. Small light veins create a graphic chevron design in the headlights that highlight the car’s look and reinforce the signature, particularly from the front three-quarter view.

The bonnet is long and horizontal, and positioned fairly low with pair of large scalloped design details, reminiscent of the latest C4 and C5 Aircross SUV. The lower air intake, highlighted by a chrome strip, has a highly geometric design – one that draws inspiration from chevrons – and houses the main radar used for the car’s driving aids.

Stationwagon practicality at the rear
To the rear of C5 X, dual spoilers combine to give a very dynamic look. This, combined with the steeply raked tailgate window design, helps to continue the flowing silhouette. Further details – such as the crisp lines around the lower part of the tailgate and bumper coupled with the lower chevron pattern and the chrome decoration around the reflectors – emphasise the vehicle’s width.

The rear of the car is also designed to be practical and provide more volume for the driver, offering stationwagon levels of modularity. The tailgate provides a wide and functional opening with a low loading sill.

Plug-in hybrid powertrain
The powerful 225 ps plug-in hybrid powertrain is claimed to give a range of up to 55 kms. Combustion engines will still be available but Citroen is not providing information on them yet.

Other technical details available at this time include Citroen’s Advanced Comfort Active Suspension system, with the cabin having a lounge-like interior space and Advanced Comfort seats

Production of the C5 X will start towards the end of this year with first deliveries starting during the first quarter of 2022.

Electrogenic gives the iconic Citroen DS a new 21st century ‘heart’

Vaccination does not make you immune to COVID-19 infection. You can still get infected and you may not show symptoms but spread the coronavirus. Do not stop taking protective measures such as wearing a facemask, washing hands frequently and social distancing.

Concept Mercedes-Maybach EQS for the new generation of customers

There was a time when SUVs – vehicles for driving off the highway in rough terrain – would not have been seen as being relevant in the luxury class. Those who bought luxury cars wanted comfort and generally cruised around cities and travelling on highways to their mansions in the countryside. But times have changed and as SUVs became more comfortable and more ‘civilised’, just about every segment started to have one or more. And even Rolls-Royce has a SUV (the Cullinan), along with Bentley.

Mercedes-Maybach, also in that same stratospheric segment of the market, therefore could not ignore offering a SUV as well and while there is the very capable G-Wagen, it is not exclusive enough in concept so the brand has designed its own model based on the modular architecture for luxury and executive-class electric vehicles. This will be the brand’s second SUV after the GLS 600 4MATIC which was launched in 2019.

With the Concept EQS, Mercedes-Maybach is providing a preview of a future SUV model which will be appropriate for the brand as it joins the journey into a zero-emissions future of motoring. “Many of our Mercedes-Maybach customers are digitally connected to a high degree and place the highest demands on our digital solutions. They also expect the brand of their choice to stand up for sustainable values and take responsibility for the environment. The Concept Mercedes-Maybach EQS fulfils all these points and embodies sophisticated luxury in a more progressive way: the all-electric powertrain not only makes consistently sustainable mobility possible, but also enables a new level of calm and relaxation for passengers,” said Britta Seeger, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Mercedes-Benz AG, responsible for Marketing & Sales.

‘Near production’ model
The design is said to be ‘near production’ and shows identifying features that are characteristic of Maybach – such as the elaborate two-tone paint finish. It also has elements from the Mercedes-EQ family that is all-electric, with the appearance consistently following the concept of ‘purpose design’. The transition to a new technological era is recognisable at first glance.

Continuous transitions, without breaks and edges, characterise the seamless design. The expressive surface modelling and muscular shoulders are further characteristic features. And numerous chrome applications set brand-characteristic accents. The pronounced wheel wells with cladding in high-gloss black emphasise power and emotionality.

The upright black panel front also flows seamlessly into the wraparound bonnet and headlights. The LED light units showcase the lighting with individual diamond blocks framed with a fine-knit mesh of the Maybach emblem. The classic Maybach lettering on the front bonnet, the upright Mercedes star and the longitudinal chrome-plated trim strip in the centre of the bonnet are a tribute to tradition.

The aerodynamically optimised side running boards bear a customised inlay with the Maybach emblem. Generously dimensioned 24-inch light-alloy wheels in the Maybach ‘bowl’ design – with 5 short spokes and a flat centre section – as well as Maybach lettering, emphasise the exclusive appearance.

“With the Concept Mercedes-Maybach EQS, we’re transforming the brand into an electric future after 100 years. In conjunction with the new-style aerodynamic SUV proportions, we’re completely redefining the luxury SUV of the future,” said Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer Daimler Group.

Emotional and stylish statement
The interior of the Concept Mercedes-Maybach EQS is just as emotional and stylish a statement as the exterior – realised completely virtually. The lounge character promises luxurious travel at the highest level. The front seats show parallels to the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class. The First-Class rear suite with two generous individual seats – also inspired by the S-Class – as well as the High-End Rear Seat Entertainment System will offer the highest level of comfort on board. And because the SUV concept allows for more seat height, the calf rest could be made even larger.

Plenty of freedom of movement

The centre console appears to float like a continuous ribbon from the cockpit to the rear seats, creating a particularly light and elegant impression of space with plenty of freedom of movement. In combination with many indirect and direct ambient lighting features, the impression of space and interior components appear visually lighter and also seem to float.

The standard vase insert invites you to bring seasonally appropriate floral decorations and thus nature into the interior of the Maybach. Underneath, a large storage area offers plenty of space for utensils or for individual equipment options such as folding tables, a box of champagne goblets or a refrigerated compartment.

Newly designed door panels with floating armrests and controls with the appearance of elegant sideboards emphasise the simultaneously luxurious and modern character of the interior. The concept for colours and materials has been inspired by the world of fashion. Perfect craftsmanship, high-quality materials and extraordinary details show a new level of exclusivity.

For the concept model, the colour combination of white and a deep, dark blue creates a spacious and technically sophisticated environment. A special highlight is the trim element in a white chrome look. Its rosé gold-coloured pilaster strips follow the shape perfectly. Additional rose gold-coloured accents create an ideal contrast and contribute significantly to the luxurious feel of the interior.

Another unexpected contrast is brought to the interior by a fashion-inspired, progressive textile of the highest quality. It is used generously around the rear-seat area, while flashes of it also appear in further details in the interior. A progressive graphic printed on leather in the roof liner area demonstrates the perfect fusion of a traditional luxury material with modern technology.

Maybach-specific display styles
Needless to say, the dominant MBUX Hyperscreen is present up front, with Maybach-specific display styles and content. This large, curved screen unit is composed of 3 screens under a glass cover that appear to merge into one.

With adaptive software thanks to artificial intelligence, MBUX adapts completely to its user. It makes personalised suggestions for numerous infotainment, comfort and vehicle functions. With the zero-layer menu, the most important applications are always offered on the top level within the field of vision, according to situation and context. Searching through submenus is no longer necessary.

The market launch of the production version of this Maybach SUV is not known but the company says that its powertrain will be similar to another all-electric SUV, the EQS, will be in showrooms in 2022. What is already known about this EQ SUV model is that it will be a high-performance model with two powerful electric motors to give all-wheel drive. A range of 600 kms is expected, depending on usage conditions.

2021 Mercedes-Maybach S-Class (Z223)

Hyundai to launch ultra compact SUV called Casper (w/VIDEO)

Casper, the friendly ghost in an animated cartoon series, is the name that Hyundai will use for a new ultra compact SUV that it will introduce during the fourth quarter of this year, starting with the Korean market.

Smallest Hyundai SUV model
The new model will be the carmaker’s smallest SUV, measuring 3595 mm long, 1595 mm wide and 1575 mm tall, with a 2400 mm wheelbase. That makes it even shorter than the old Perodua Kembara and about as large as the old Hyundai i10. The wheelbase is fairly generous though, which should provide maximum interior space.

Creating a new class?
Hyundai describes the Casper as being in ‘an all-new car class that never existed before’ and it will probably be presented as a vehicle for the urban jungle. Details are limited for now but it is expected to have a 1-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine and the ones Hyundai currently offers produce either 66 bhp with natural aspiration or up to 98 bhp with turbocharging. Under consideration is an electric version which could come later on.

While the Casper would be a nice little city car for Europe, it might also be offered as a trendy crossover for emerging markets as it will probably have an affordable pricetag with minimal high-tech. Hopefully, Hyundai Sime Darby Motors will be able to get their principal to consider it for the Malaysian market.

In its domestic market, Hyundai is taking bookings for the model this month and ‘early bird’ customers can get priority delivery, Starbucks gift cards as well as car-sharing test-drives for 8 hours.

The Defender V8 in ‘No Time to Die’ can be yours too

Land Rovers have appeared in various James Bond movies and will again star in the latest one to have its world premiere later this month. A video released last year showed Defenders in action, flying through the air in ‘No Time to Die’, and for those who want a similar vehicle, Land Rover SV Bespoke has created the Defender V8 Bond Edition.

Only 300 units will be offered through Land Rover dealers worldwide and there will be a choice of the Defender 90 or 110 bodystyles. To have the same stealthy look, the Defender V8 Bond Edition gets an Extended Black Pack with 22-inch Gloss Black alloy wheels and signature Xenon Blue front brake calipers.

The bespoke touches extend to the practical interior, with a specially developed start-up animation for the intuitive Pivi Pro infotainment system touchscreen that honours Land Rover’s long partnership with the James Bond franchise. At night, customers will also spot unique ‘007’ puddle lamp graphics flashed on ground outside the doors.

There are, of course, ‘Defender 007’ badges on various parts of the bodywork and inside, laser etching details that each unit is ‘one of 300’. Each vehicle is specially commissioned by the vehicle personalisation experts at SV Bespoke in the UK.

Based on the recently launched Defender V8, the Bond Edition is powered by a 5-litre 525 ps/625 Nm supercharged petrol engine with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This provides levels of performance that were never available in the original Defender and expertly developed suspension tuning allows the driver to make use of all that capability.

“The Land Rover Defender V8 Bond Edition is an exclusive take on the most powerful production Defender ever made, inspired by vehicles on screen in ‘No Time to Die’. It represents a meeting of two great British brands and is a unique celebration of Land Rover’s 38-year association with James Bond,” said Finbar McFall, Land Rover Brand Director.

Besides the Defender, there will also be two Range Rover Sport SVRs, a Range Rover Classic and Land Rover Series III in the film, which is the 25^th one since 1962. ‘No Time to Die’ will be released progressively worldwide from the end of September, with the first screening taking place in the UK on September 30.

Going by some recent pictures of camouflaged Defenders on Malaysian roads last month, it is likely that Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia will be introducing the model in the near future. If you want to be alerted about the launch, you could let your interest be known at a Land Rover showroom.