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Proton builds 5 millionth car since 1983, is an X90 – over 2 million Sagas, 217,000 X-series SUVs sold
Proton has announced it has achieved a momentous milestone – the national carmaker has built its five-millionth car, 41 years since its founding. The landmark car, an X90 Flagship, was revealed in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of the start of Malaysia-China diplomatic relations, which was officially celebrated on May 31.
Of those five million units, over two million of those were of the Saga, cementing its position as Malaysia’s best-selling car ever. Meanwhile, Proton has sold more than 217,000 of its X-series SUVs ever since the X70 was launched back in 2018, a marker of its successful collaboration with Geely.
The partnership has resulted in four co-developed models, a comprehensively upgraded lineup of homegrown cars, quality improvements, investments in after-sales and parts management and the establishment of Malaysia’s largest network of 3S and 4S dealers. All this has contributed to five consecutive years of sales growth and a commensurate increase in production, Proton said in a statement.
“Proton was tasked with mobilising Malaysians and to establish a local automotive ecosystem when it was formed in 1983 and today, we continue to play a critical role in the nation’s economy,” said CEO Li Chunrong. “Over 100,000 people earn a living through activities linked to Proton and each of them played a role in driving the company towards this landmark achievement of five million units.”
He continued: “The five-millionth unit produced by Proton is a Proton X90 Flagship, which is symbolic of how far the company has progressed since the beginning of the partnership with Geely. Just last week, we confirmed eMas as the brand name for future Proton EV products and today as we set yet another milestone, the future is ripe with opportunities for Proton to continue to provide sustainable mobility for Malaysians and our export markets.”
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2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA250 4Matic AMG Line in Malaysia – now AWD, 224 PS 2.0T mild hybrid, RM296k
Five months after facelifted H247 GLA200 made its debut, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has introduced the higher-spec GLA250 4Matic AMG Line. This brings back the look-faster AMG Line model and adds all-wheel drive and a mild hybrid powertrain to the mix for the first time.
Those fancying a step up from the poverty-spec GLA200 will have to trump up quite a bit of extra dough for the privilege – the GLA250 is priced at RM295,888 on-the-road without insurance, a heady RM37,000 more. As usual, this figure includes a four-year, unlimited-mileage warranty.
As before, the GLA250 swaps out the GLA200’s Renault-sourced 1.3 litre turbocharged four-cylinder for Mercedes’ in-house M260 2.0 litre unit. Power is unchanged at 224 PS at 5,500 rpm and 350 Nm of torque from 2,000 to 4,000 rpm, all sent to an eight-speed wet dual-clutch transmission.
What’s new is a 48-volt belt-driven starter-generator (BSG) that provides an extra 14 PS and 150 Nm of accelerative boost, along with 4Matic all-wheel drive. So equipped, the GLA250 sprints from zero to 100 km/h in 6.8 seconds – over a second quicker than the GLA200, and a tenth of a second gain over the previous front-wheel-drive GLA250 – on its way to a top speed of 240 km/h.
On the outside, the new GLA250 is differentiated through a redesigned front bumper that gives the car a closer resemblance to full-fat AMG models, along with new graphics for the LED head- (still using LED High Performance reflectors; no projectors here) and taillights. Also setting this variant apart from the lesser GLA200 are the rear diffuser and larger 19-inch AMG five-split-spoke alloy wheels, the latter hiding sports brakes with cross-drilled discs.
Inside, the GLA250 receives a new flat-bottomed sports steering wheel with Mercedes’ latest (and much-maligned) capacitive touch controls, as well as an updated Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) that ditches the centre console touchpad. You now operate the interface exclusively through the 10.25-inch centre touchscreen, with another 10.25-inch digital instrument display sitting in front of the driver.
As is usual for an AMG Line model, you get power-adjustable sports seats with memory, upholstered in Artico faux leather and Microcut microfibre. Also fitted are brushed aluminium trim decor, alloy pedals, black headlining and illuminated side sill scuff plates.
Standard kit includes aluminium roof rails, lowered comfort passive suspension, keyless entry, push-button start, single-zone auto climate control (still no rear vents, unfortunately), 64-colour ambient lighting, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Qi wireless charger, a reverse camera, six speakers and a hands-free powered tailgate.
Just like the GLA200, the GLA250 comes with autonomous emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, a door opening warning and park assist. Seven airbags and stability control are fitted as standard.
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2025 Audi e-tron GT debuts – up to 609 km EV range; new 925 PS RS e-tron GT Performance variant
The Audi e-tron GT range has been updated for the 2025 model year, bringing technical and visual updates to its three-variant range, which is now comprised of the S e-tron GT as its base, RS e-tron GT and the range-topping RS e-tron GT Performance.
Outputs and performance of the 2025 Audi e-tron GT range, at a glance:
- S e-tron GT – 679 PS, 305 Nm/590 Nm front/rear, 0-100 km/h in 3.4 seconds, 245 km/h
- RS e-tron GT – 856 PS, 305 Nm/590 Nm front/rear, 0-100 km/h in 2.8 seconds, 250 km/h
- RS e-tron GT Performance – 925 PS, 410 Nm/590 Nm front/rear, 0-100 km/h in 2.5 seconds, 250 km/h
All three variants of the e-tron GT get an 800-volt battery with a capacity of 105 kWh (97 kWh nett), which has been lightened by 9 kg to reach a weight of 625 kg, says Audi. This has been achieved despite the battery’s higher energy density, attained through changes in materials and separators and adapted cell chemistry, resulting in a maximum battery range of 609 km.
Click to enlarge The battery has received a two-layer cooling plate that has been optimised to attain a 12% gain in capacity for its 33 cell modules, each with twelve pouch cells with a flexible outer skin. The maximum charge and discharge currents have been increased to 400 amps by increasing current flow within the individual cells.
A further optimised, intelligent, predictive thermal management system with improved pump and valve switching and refined preconditioning allow more power to flow during charging, and a newly designed charging system of the combined booster converter aids charging performance.
These improvements are joined by gains in energy recuperation through regenerative braking, which has increased from 290 kW to 400 kW, and the driver may select either manual or automatic recuperation management, or control it in three levels selectable from the shift paddles.
Audi S e-tron GT (above); RS e-tron GT (below) Maximum charging input for the 2025 e-tron GT has been increased from 270 kW to 320 kW, enabling the car’s battery to be recharged from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes in ideal conditions, or regain 280 km of battery range from a 10-minute recharge.
Audi says the car’s new high-voltage battery also has a significantly wider quick-charging window, enabling ‘very quick charging’ in temperatures as low as 15 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile for AC charging, 22 kW capability is optional, while standard specification is 11 kW AC.
If some of the improvement stats appear familiar, they’re identical to the e-tron GT’s J1 platform sibling, the also-recently updated Porsche Taycan. Similarly, the chassis of the 2025 e-tron GT range gets a revised dual-chamber, two-valve air suspension setup – on double wishbones front and rear – that aims to offer advantages in driving dynamics without compromising comfort, says Audi.
Audi RS e-tron GT Performance The Audi drive select system offers a choice of efficiency, comfort and dynamic modes, with the S e-tron GT getting a configurable individual mode, while the RS e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT Performance get two individually configurable modes, RS1 and RS2. As the top variant in the range, the RS e-tron GT Performance gains a performance mode that is designed as an optimal setup for use on challenging circuits.
Rolling stock for the 2025 e-tron GT range begins with 20-inch alloy wheels on tyres measuring 245/45R20 and 285/40R20 front and rear as standard, with the two RS e-tron variants getting the option of 21-inch ‘Avus’ alloy wheels.
Brakes are comprised of steel discs as standard, measuring 390 mm in front and 358 mm in diameter for the S e-tron GT and 410 mm/365 mm front and rear for the RS e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT Performance. Carbon-fibre ceramic brake discs are optionally available for all three variants.
Inside, the 2025 e-tron GT range gets updated with a redesigned multi-function steering wheel that is now flattened on its top and bottom; the wheel on the RS variants get two red control satellites, plus the option of a 12 o’clock marking. The base S e-tron GT gets 14-way adjustable sports seats as standard, and the RS versions may be optioned with massage functionality.
Audi claims that between 37% to 45% of the seats, steering wheel, hood above the virtual cockpit, door mirrors, centre console, and greenhouse are made of Dinamica, made of half-recycled polyester, while carpeting and floor mats are made of Econyl.
Technical updates to the 2025 e-tron GT are reflected in the Audi virtual cockpit display system, which provides battery temperature and the maximum possible charging power in real-time. RS variants get RS-specific graphics, with the RS e-tron GT Performance getting the white backgrounds for its power display and speedometer, in a tip of the hat to the 1994 RS2 Avant.
Also new on the Audi e-tron GT range is the panoramic glass roof with polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) technology, which enables the changing of the glass opacity electrically from the car’s MMI system. A version of this was also seen on the Taycan GTS.
The 2025 Audi e-tron GT range is available in nine exterior colours; Arkona White, Ascari Blue, Daytona Grey, Florett Silver, Kemora Grey, Mythos Black, and Progressive Red. Additionally, Nimbus Grey is exclusive to the RS variants, while Bedford Green is the sole preserve of the RS e-tron GT Performance.
Pricing for the 2025 Audi e-tron GT range begins from 126,000 euros (RM636,943) for the S e-tron GT, 147,500 euros (RM745,628) for the RS e-tron GT and 160,500 euros (RM811,344) for the RS e-tron GT Performance.
2025 Audi S e-tron GT
2025 Audi RS e-tron GT
2025 Audi RS e-tron GT Performance
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Any bumiputera company can apply for open approved permits (APs) beginning from July 1, 2024, says MITI
The ministry of investment, trade and industry (MITI) has announced that effective July 1 this year, any bumiputera company can apply to be appointed as an open approved permit (AP) company to engage in vehicle importation and sales activities in Malaysia.
As reported by Bernama, this offer is also extended companies that have never been involved the automotive sector. In a statement, MITI said the move is in line with its efforts to increase inclusiveness and transparency in the open AP application process.
“The implementation of this policy is expected to attract more bumiputera companies to engage in the automotive industry. The increase in the number of companies will make this segment more competitive,” read the statement. Any company that wants to secure open APs must meet several conditions, including Sendiri Berhad (Sdn Bhd) status, 100% bumiputera ownership, a minimum paid-up capital of RM1 million and be in operation for at least two years.
MITI said that since the open AP policy’s implementation in 1970, it has produced viable bumiputera companies that are not only in the business of importing and selling vehicles, but also in key activities along the supply chain such as after-sales service, insurance and logistics.
It added that the government’s main objective is to is to continue empowering the bumiputera socio-economic agenda by giving more competitive
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Jaecoo J8 RHD previewed in Malaysia – 6-seater flagship SUV, 249 PS 2.0T, Q4 launch, RM200k est
Jaecoo didn’t just have the CKD locally-assembled J7 on show today – Chery’s premium off-roader brand also displayed a right-hand-drive prototype of the larger J8 at the new Chery Corporate Malaysia factory in Shah Alam. While the flagship SUV has been previewed here before, this is our first glimpse at a right-hooker.
Sold in China as the Chery Tiggo 9, the J8 is huge – measuring 4,820 mm long, 1,930 mm wide and 1,699 mm tall, it’s nearly 100 mm longer and 70 mm wider than the already sizeable Tiggo 8 Pro, while its 2,820 mm wheelbase is 110 mm longer. Its size puts it in the ballpark of the Kia Sorento, a car Jaecoo is gunning for with its circa-RM200,000 estimated pricing.
The car you see here is of a considerably higher spec than the one shown in January, being a six-seater model (the other car was a five-seater) with power-adjustable second-row captain’s chairs and a retractable ottoman for the front passenger. It is in a more sober colour scheme however – white exterior with a body-coloured roof and a black interior.
As before, don’t expect this particular unit to be representative of the finalised versions – this is a pre-production prototype after all, so the out-of-spec panel gaps and raw plastic finishes such as the glossy lower dashboard will almost certainly be eradicated by the time the J8 reaches customers’ hands.
Still, the car does look mighty impressive as is, what with its sleek Americana design (there are shades of Lincoln Aviator in the streamlined surfacing, front fender appliqués, blacked-out D-pillars and wraparound full-width taillights) and Mercedes-style interior.
It also looks like you’ll be getting a lot of kit, including full-LED lighting, massive 20-inch alloy wheels, flush pop-out door handles, twin 12.3-inch displays on a widescreen display panel, four-zone climate control, heated and ventilated seats for the first and second rows, a panoramic glass sunroof, cooled armrest storage, paddle shifters, a 360-degree camera system and a 14-speaker Sony sound system.
Power comes from the Tiggo 8 Pro’s 2.0 litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, here churning out 249 PS and 385 Nm (slightly less power and torque). It’s paired with a seven-speed wet dual-clutch transmission and a choice of either front- or all-wheel drive.
Last we checked, the J8 was due to go on sale in the fourth quarter of the year, but the delay in getting the J7 out the door (that car was supposed to debut in the second quarter, but is only set to be launched next month) may have had a knock-on effect on this car’s launch timeline. A plug-in hybrid model is also on the cards with a ridiculous 605 hp and 915 Nm, along with up to 175 km of NEDC-rated electric range.
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Chery says Malaysia will be global RHD R&D hub, for UK, Australia too – hot weather, automotive expertise
During the rollout of the CKD locally-assembled Jaecoo J7 at its new Shah Alam plant, Chery International confirmed it has selected Malaysia as its global right-hand-drive research and development hub.
Speaking to media at a press conference here, president Zhang Quibing said the country will be tasked with developing RHD versions of its cars not just for local and Southeast Asian consumption, but also for markets like the UK and Australia.
He added that Malaysia was chosen for its tropical climate – ideal for hot weather testing – as well as its expertise in the automotive industry, which features local players Proton and Perodua. We previously wrote that the facility will be responsible for regional testing, training and parts distribution.
However, it’s unclear if Malaysia will also become the global production hub for RHD vehicles. It was previously reported that Chery production at the Inokom plant in Kulim, Kedah is at full capacity, and while the Chery Corporate Malaysia facility in Shah Alam – which is currently reserved for Jaecoo-badged vehicles – has been built with export markets in mind, we’ve been told that the modestly-sized factory has only been earmarked for ASEAN production for now.
Last year, Indonesian news portal Kompas reported that Chery selected the archipelago as its RHD production hub. However, that was in February, and there has been no news on that front since then.
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Zeekr X sighted in Malaysia – EV SUV to launch soon?
Following confirmation of the Zeekr brand’s official entry into Malaysia, a public sighting of the Zeekr X in Klang, Selangor has surfaced online, courtesy of Facebook user Zhi Sheng.
First unveiled officially in February last year, the Zeekr X will be one of two models from the brand that is bound for this market, the other being the 009 MPV. The Zeekr X is one with a premium slant, aimed at the likes of the MINI Countryman SE and the BMW iX1.
In terms of exterior dimensions, the Zeekr X measures 4,450 mm long, 1,836 mm wide and 1,572 mm tall with a wheelbase of 2,750 mm, making its 5 mm shorter, 39 mm narrower and 43 mm lower and 30 mm longer of wheelbase than its compatriot, the BYD Atto 3.
The Zeekr X shares its Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA3) underpinnings with the smart #1, #3 and the Volvo EX30, with the Zeekr being available with either a 272 PS/343 Nm single-motor powertrain driving the rear wheels, or a 428 PS/543 Nm dual-motor setup providing AWD. The former does 0-100 km/h in 5.8 seconds, with the AWD version a full two seconds quicker over the same measure at 3.8 seconds.
Battery specifications are shared with its common platform stablemates, where a 66 kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery offers 560 km of range for the single-motor RWD version, or 512 km for the dual-motor AWD variant; both are based on the optimistic CLTC testing standard.
Exact battery charging specifications for the Zeekr X have yet to emerge, though the X is expected to match the smart #1 in employing up to 150 kW DC fast charging which will take 30 minutes for a 10-80% recharge.
Interior features consist of a slim, 8.8-inch instrument display located behind a slightly quartic two-spoke steering wheel, which are joined by a 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen that can slide across to the front passenger’s side of the dashboard, as well as a 24.3-inch augmented reality head-up display.
Additional features include power-opening doors, a 13-speaker Yamaha audio system, a B-pillar display that shows the vehicle’s state of charge, and a camera for facial recognition-based unlocking.
GALLERY: Zeekr X at BIMS 2024
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Carro Malaysia’s first 4S centre launched in Seremban
Carro Malaysia has launched its first 4S centre located in Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, expanding its network of facilities which includes 10 Retail Experience Centres, 27 inspection centres, five service centres and two refurbishment centres across the country.
With a built-up area spanning 43,000 square feet, the two-storey 4S centre features a showroom floor that can display up to six vehicles, a sales office and customer lounges. Customers can also collect and take photos of their Carro Certified vehicles at the facility’s official delivery bays.
To meet the aftersales needs of customers, the facility is integrated with Carro Care programme, which is backed by Carro’s technology and Jardine Cycle and Carriage’s technical expertise. In addition to vehicle maintenance, customers can also expect high-quality bodywork and paint restoration services, helmed by Japanese paint master Junpei Yamamoto, Carro Care’s head of body and paint services.
With eight service bays and a dedicated spray paint booth, the new 4S centre has the capacity to service between 250 and 300 cars as well as handle up to 50 body and paint jobs monthly. Services are offered to all vehicle owners, even if they do not own a Carro Certified car.
“4S centres historically have been reserved for brand-specific dealerships and distributors. However, we really want every used car owner to have the opportunity to step into a 4S building and experience the same level of care, detail and transparency,” said Carro Malaysia CEO Derrick Eng.
“We’re reshaping the landscape for used cars and aftersales services with our technology, certified experts, equipment as well as OEM and quality spare parts – all to give our customers quality cars that are as good as new,” he added.
Meanwhile, transport minister Anthony Loke, who was present to officiate the facility, said, “road safety is paramount and it’s essential that all vehicles, especially used cars, are fit for the road. As a market leader, Carro has taken the lead to not only standardise their inspection process across the country, but also enhance the process with their own technologies. This is the gold standard that all used car marketplaces should achieve.”
The new Carro 4S centre in Seremban is located at 340, Jln Haruan 2, Oakland Industrial Park, 70300 Seremban, Negeri Sembilan. It is open daily from 9.30am to 8.30pm.
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Jaecoo J7 CKD rolls off new Shah Alam assembly plant – exclusive to Jaecoo brand, launch on July 19
Chery has opened its new assembly plant in Shah Alam – the facility, Chery Corporate Malaysia, will be exclusive to the premium Jaecoo brand (Chery’s own models will continue to be built at the Inokom factory in Kulim, Kedah) and is already producing the Jaecoo J7 SUV for local consumption.
The company took the opportunity to debut the first CKD locally-assembled J7, which will finally be launched on July 19 after a protracted teaser campaign that began at the start of the year. The plant will likely also produce other Jaecoo models that have been confirmed for Malaysia, including the larger J8 and the all-electric J6. A research and development centre, meant for Chery’s right-hand-drive conversions, will also be built at the compound, as will a test track.
Chery did not provide any specifics regarding the plant, such as the amount of investment, area or annual capacity. A Jaecoo spokesperson did confirm, however, that the facility is capable of single and double shifts and is scalable according to local demand. She also said the factory has been built with exports to the ASEAN region in mind and supports internal combustion engines, plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles.
To recap, Jaecoo is positioned as Chery’s upscale off-road-focused brand, similar to Land Rover – something the J7 aims to emulate with its boxy, minimalist design. Based on the Chery Tiggo 7 Pro, the car will be offered in front- and all-wheel-drive variants, estimated to be priced at RM150,000 (around RM20,000 higher than the Tiggo 7 Pro) and RM160,000 respectively.
Both are powered by the Tiggo 7 Pro’s 1.6 litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 197 PS and 290 Nm of torque, getting it from zero to 100 km/h in eight seconds flat. A seven-speed wet dual-clutch transmission is fitted as standard.
A total of seven drive modes are available, four of which – Snow, Mud, Sand and a general Off-Road setting – are exclusive to the AWD model. Standard kit includes full-LED headlights, 19-inch “Aurora” two-tone alloy wheels, flush pop-out door handles and keyless entry with remote engine start.
Inside, you’ll find push-button start, heated and ventilated powered seats, leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, 64-colour ambient lighting, a panoramic glass sunroof, cooled armrest storage, a 10.25-inch digital instrument display, a 14.8-inch portrait infotainment touchscreen, a 50-watt cooled Qi wireless charger, an eight-speaker Sony sound system, a 360-degree camera system and a powered tailgate.
In terms of driver assists, the J7 is equipped with autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane centring assist, emergency lane keeping, an intelligent evasion system, rear collision warning, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert with auto brake, front departure alert, a door opening warning, auto high beam and park assist.
Read our off-road first impressions of the Jaecoo J7 here.
GALLERY: Jaecoo J7 AWD CKD
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European Union to slap additional tariffs up to 38.1% on imported EVs made in China as soon as July 5
The European Commission (EC) announced a few days ago its provisional decision to increase tariffs on electric vehicles (EVs) manufactured in China and exported into the European Union (EU). The decision comes following an investigation launched by Brussels, Belgium last year into Chinese electric car subsidies, which were deemed to be unfair to Europe’s carmakers.
In a statement issued by the EC, the hiked tariffs will be applied by July 5 this year at the latest and will be added to the existing tariff of 10%. The additional tariffs that Brussels will apply will range from 17.4% to 38.1% depending on how well EV manufacturers cooperated with EU investigators.
According to The Guardian, SAIC Motor has been slapped with the highest tariff of 38.1%, while Geely and BYD face a tariff of 20% and 17.4% respectively. Some automakers like BYD are ahead of the curve with plans to set up plants in Europe, including in Hungary.
“The European Commission is right to be concerned about the competitiveness of the EU as a manufacturing hub and the challenges posed by Chinese manufacturers, but tariffs can only provide a temporary respite and bear the risk of retaliation,” said CLEPA (European Association of Automotive Suppliers) secretary general Benjamin Krieger.
“Global trade requires a level playing field and may necessitate corrective measures. However, protectionism cannot be the answer to restoring European competitiveness. Consolidated efforts are needed to make the EU attractive again for investment,” he added.
The EC also said in its release that China’s automotive market represents a third of the global industry, adding that many European suppliers provide components and systems to both international and Chinese automakers for use in vehicles.
Lower-cost EVs entering Europe have been challenging offerings from European automakers. As reported by Reuters, the EC estimates the share of made-in-China EVs has rise to 8% from below 1% in 2019 and could rise to 15% by 2025. It noted that the prices of EVs imported from China are typically 20% below those made in the EU.
The tariff hike poses a problem to German automakers that have a presence in China, with German Chamber of Commerce (GCC) executive director saying the tariffs are not in favour of the global auto industry. Norway and Hungary have also voiced their opposition to the tariff hikes.
“Now what is the goal, if you implement those [tariffs] to protect the industry, but the industry says they do not want this protection?” As we need the Chinese market to remain open, therefore we are also longing to keep the European market open,” said Maximilian Butek, executive director of the GCC in East China.
China is an important market for German automakers such as Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Volkswagen, which have joint ventures with local partners and are heavily invested in the new energy vehicle (NEV) industrial chain abroad.
The EU’s move is not dissimilar to that of the United States, which said in May that tariffs on China-made EVs would be increased from 25% to 100%. China has said previously that it would temporarily raise tariffs on large-engine cars – including those from the European Union (EU) – in response to the West’s attempt to limit the import of Chinese-brand EVs.
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2024 Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES in Malaysia, 7% more torque, RM119,388
Updated and improved, the 2024 Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES is now in Malaysia, priced at RM119,388. Pricing does not include road tax, insurance or registration and the Africa Twin Adventure Sports is available in all Boon Siew Honda BigWing dealers from June 19.
Improvements to the Africa Twin’s 1,084 cc, liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine gives a 7% increase in torque. Power is claimed to be 102 hp at 7,500 rpm with a peak torque of 112 Nm at 5,500 rpm.
The Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) six-speed gearbox is also improved, giving a more natural, ‘feathered’ clutch feel on initial take-off and between first and second gears. There are three gearbox modes with ‘MT’ for manual shifting of gears using the handlebar switches.
Meanwhile, ‘D’ is for city and highway riding, with full automatic operation and maximum fuel efficiency. ‘S’ mode with three levels makes the engine rev a little higher before shifting up and while shifting down sooner when decelerating for extra engine braking.
The rider can immediately switch to ‘MT’ mode while riding, over riding the gearbox if necessary. As normal riding resumes, the DCT gearbox will switch back to automatic mode, depending on throttle and gear position, and vehicle speed.
Selecting gearbox off-road mode for the Africa Twin is done with ‘G’ mode, accessible through the 6.5-inch TFT-LCD screen. Available in any of the gearbox modes, this mode improves feel for available traction and machine control by reducing the amount of clutch slip during gear changes.
The Africa Twin’s electronics suite comes with a six-axis IMU and ride-by-wire throttle. This allows for four levels of power delivery and three levels of engine braking. Honda Selectable Traction Control (HSTC) comes with seven levels of intervention as well as an ‘Off’ selection for pure off-road riding.
Coming standard is Wheelie Control, offering three levels. Level 3 prevents any sort of front wheel lift, while Level 2 gives some lift and Level 1 is for those riders who prefer saving on front tyre life by keeping the front wheel off the ground.
The Showa Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment (Showa EERATM) is now standard equipment (previously optional in Malaysia) with 200 mm off suspension travel front and rear. There are four suspension modes – Soft, Mid, Hard and Off-Road – as well as a User mode for rider preference.
Ergonomics and rider comfort is also revised with 15 mm thicker urethane seat foam, with the seat shape now cut for increased comfort during long rides in the saddle. Seat height is adjustable between 820 mm and 840 mm without the use of tools.
The Africa Twin’s front fairing is redesigned for better wind protection, along with a five-position manually-adjustable windscreen. This minimises wind blast and improves rider comfort on long journeys.
Braking is done with twin 310 mm diameter brake discs on the 19-inch front wheel with four-piston callipers and a single disc with single-piston calliper on the rear 18-incher. Two-wheel ABS and rear wheel lift mitigation is standard, with ABS switched off for off-road duty only while the Africa Twin is stationary, re-activating when the ignition is turned off and on again.
Equipped with a Multi Information Display (MID) 6.5-inch TFT touch screen, the Africa Twin allows the rider to select ride modes using the top left of the screen. Standard is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, giving seamless integration with the rider’s smartphone.
Hands-free wireless Bluetooth connectivity is available, with all control inputs managed from the left-hand switchgear while a USB charging port is located next to the MID for ease of use. Colour options for the CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES in Malaysia are Mat Ballistic Black Metallic and Pearl Glare White.
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2024 MINI Cooper 5 Door debuts – new F65 is heavy refresh of F55; 3- and 4-cylinder engines up to 204 PS
The new F65 MINI Cooper 5 Door has made its debut just a few months after the three-door F66 version broke cover in February this year. The more practical MINI model follows in the footsteps of its smaller sibling by undergoing a heavy refresh and will be offered with a selection of internal combustion engines.
According to MINI, the F65 Cooper 5 Door measures 4,036 mm long, 1744 mm wide and 1,464 mm tall, making it slightly larger than its predecessor, the F55. Compared to the F66 Cooper 3 Door, the wheelbase is 72 mm longer at 2,567 mm, and the body is 172 mm longer.
That wheelbase is identical to the previous F55, which is a clear sign of the carryover (and updated) bones, but the F65 features the brand’s latest ‘Charismatic Simplicity’ design language to mark it out as the new model.
As seen on the F66 as well as the GWM co-developed J01 Cooper Electric, there are circular headlamps with horizontal daytime running lights (customisable versions with an illuminated outer ring are available as an option), along with a large hexagonal-shaped grille and triangular, pixel-style taillights.
The simplified design also sees the removal of the side scuttles and visible exhaust pipes, although the clamshell bonnet, pull-style door handles and plastic body cladding continue to be employed for the F65.
The interior of the new Cooper 5 Door is unsurprisingly identical to the three-door version, with highlights being a 9.4-inch OLED circular infotainment touchscreen. This is powered by the Android-based MINI Operation System 9 and provides access to vehicle functions as well as instrumentation.
Other features include a digital voice assistant that can be visualised as ‘Spike’ and there is a fabric-wrapped dashboard, the latter able to have different graphics projected onto it with the optional MINI Experience Modes.
Also familiar is the row of toggles for the gear and drive mode selectors, along with the twist-style engine starter. A Qi wireless charger sits below this and connects the dashboard to a more practical centre console made possible by the lack of a traditional gear lever. The F65’s 60:40 split-folding rear seats can increase the luggage compartment capacity from 275 litres to up to 925 litres.
As always, customers will have plenty of individual equipment options to choose from, including four trims (Essential, Classic, Favoured and JCW Trim) that affect the exterior and interior. Aerodynamic wheel designs in 16- and 18-inch sizes are also available.
On the powertrain front, the Cooper C variant packs a B38 1.5 litre turbocharged inline-three petrol engine making 156 PS (154 hp or 115 kW) and 230 Nm of torque, which is good for a 0-100 km/h time of eight seconds and top speed of 225 km/h.
The second option is the Cooper S with a B48 2.0 litre B48 inline-four petrol unit rated at (204 PS (201 hp or 150 kW) and 300 Nm for a quicker century sprint time of 6.8 seconds and higher top speed of 242 km/h.
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Petrol stations near Kelantan border monitored for smuggling of RON95 petrol through repeat purchases
A total of 48 out of 245 petrol stations within a radius of 25 km from the Malaysia-Thailand border in the state will be monitored to prevent repeated purchases of subsidised RON 95 petrol by the same vehicle, New Straits Times has reported.
Repeated purchases of RON 95 petrol for the same vehicle in less than one hour are not permitted, said Kelantan state director of the ministry of domestic trade and cost of living (KPDN) Azman Ismail.
“At the same time, we will station officers at petrol stations at the border such as at Pengkalan Kubor, Rantau Panjang and Bukit Bunga. Those who do so will be dealt with strictly because we believe they are smugglers,” he said. Earlier, the ministry issued a ban on repeated purchases of RON 95 petrol from Kelantan petrol stations to prevent smuggling of the subsidised fuel to neighbouring countries.
The ban on repeated purchases of RON 95 petrol in the state was ordered after the practice was discovered as a means of stockpiling before the fuel is smuggled to Thailand, said KPDN deputy director of enforcement operations Shamsul Nizam Khalil.
Earlier this month, the ministry of domestic trade and cost of living (KPDN) stated that fuel smugglers began switching from smuggling diesel to RON 95 petrol ahead of the diesel fuel subsidy rationalisation programme that began on June 10.
The fuel subsidy rationalisation programme kicked off with diesel fuel in Peninsular Malaysia, which saw the price of Euro 5 B10 and B20 diesel increase from the subsidised rate of RM2.15 per litre by RM1.20 per litre, or 56% to RM3.35 per litre. Rationalisation of the diesel fuel subsidy for Sabah and Sarawak has been set aside until later.
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Nissan GT-R production for North America ending in Oct – T-spec Takumi Edition, Skyline Edition launched
Nissan has announced that it will end production of the R35 GT-R for the North American market in October this year, around 17 years after the sports car first went on sale in the region back in 2007. To mark the end of an era, the Japanese carmaker is offering two special versions of the GT-R called the T-spec Takumi Edition and Skyline Edition.
Both are based on the facelifted model revealed last year and will be highly collectible, with fewer than 200 units offered. The Skyline Edition is the cheaper of the two options, retailing at USD131,090 (around RM618k), while the T-spec Takumi Edition sells for USD151,090 (RM712k).
For the money, the Skyline Edition, which is built on the existing Premium, is finished in Bayside Blue exterior and a new Sora Blue colour scheme for the interior. Nissan also specifically mentions the Skyline Edition “brings the iconic name from overseas to the US and references the abundant beauty found in skylines across Japan.”
Moving over to the T-spec Takumi Edition, this model pays tribute to the Takumi master craftspeople that are responsible for assembling each GT-R’s VR38DETT engine by hand. As such, the engine badge features red-etched writing and the engine bay will house a gold VIN plate.
The exterior paint is Midnight Purple for the T-spec Takumi Edition, while its interior is in an exclusive Mori Green. Given the base car is the T-spec, things like carbon-ceramic brakes, 20-inch gold-painted Rays wheels, Nismo-tuned Vehicle Dynamic Control and wider front fenders all come as standard.
The GT-R has already been discontinued in Europe due to new noise regulations, while in Australia, the sports car was dropped back in 2021 for its inability to meet heightened safety regulations. The R35 was first unveiled at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show and has received several updates throughout the years, but its time is clearly coming to an end. We’ll have to wait for Nissan confirm when and if a next generation will debut.
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KPDN bans repeat purchases of RON95 petrol in Kelantan, warns against colluding with smugglers
The ministry of domestic trade and cost of living (KPDN) has banned repeat purchases of RON 95 petrol at all Kelantan petrol stations in a bid to prevent smuggling of the subsidised fuel to neighbouring countries, Berita Harian has reported.
The directive was issued after the practice of repeatedly purchasing the fuel was discovered as a means of stockpiling before the fuel is smuggled to Thailand, said KPDN deputy director of enforcement operations Shamsul Nizam Khalil.
While the order is limited to the state of Kelantan for now, it will be expanded to other border states such as Perlis, Kedah and Perak, said Shamsul Nizam.
“In fact, the order has been carried out from June 10 before the federal government began targeted fuel subsidies, with KPDN officers positioned around customs, immigration and quarantine (CIQ) complexes and petrol stations in the state, he said.
Tactics used by fuel smuggling syndicates typically employ vehicles with local license plates for topping up with RON 95 petrol, where a 60 litre capacity could normally enable the vehicle to travel between 500 km to 600 km, however the same vehicle is found refuelling once again between covering that distance, thus raising suspicion that the fuel is being smuggled into a neighbouring country, he added.
Fuel smuggling practices could actually be detected with the cooperation of fuel station operators to ensure that no fraud is taking place on their premises, Shamsul Nizam said.
“If the fuel smugglers are caught, action can be taken against petrol station operators for allowing RON 95 petrol to be repeatedly purchased, and the KPDN has warned all petrol station operators that their licenses may be cancelled if they are found to be colluding with smugglers,” the KPDN deputy director of enforcement operations added.
