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Proton X70 Vs Haval H6 – Proton Bakal Kehilangan Takhta Raja SUV Segmen-C?

Great Wall Motors telah mengumumkan kepulangan mereka di pasaran Malaysia dan bakal memperkenalkan Haval H6. Adakah kedudukan Proton X70 akan tergugat sebagai raja SUV segmen-C?

Sebelum pengumuman tersebut dibuat, beberapa unit Haval H6 telah dikesan sedang menjalani ujian jalan raya, antaranya adalah unit hibrid seperti di Thailand serta unit PHEV.

Memandangkan SUV ini bakal diletakkan dalam kategori SUV segmen-C, mampukah Haval H6 menggugat kedudukan Proton X70 yang selesa memegang takhta raja SUV segmen-C ketika ini? Jom kita lihat apa yang menarik sangat dengan SUV nombor satu di China ini.

Enjin Dan Prestasi

Haval H6 Hybrid yang diperkenalkan di pasaran Thailand hadir dengan enjin 1.5 liter turbocas empat-silinder. Dalam versi petrol biasa, jentera ini menghasilkan 169 PS dan 285 Nm tork. Bagi versi hibrid, ia digandingkan dengan motor elektrik yang menghasilkan 130 kW (177 PS), menjadikan output maximum kereta ini sebanyak 243 PS dan 530 Nm. Versi PHEV pula menghasilkan output keseluruhan yang lebih tinggi iaitu sebanyak 326 PS dan 530 Nm tork.

Sementara itu, Proton kini kelihatan sedang giat untuk menggunakan enjin 1.5L TGDI yang diperkenalkan pada Proton X50 kepada semua model baharu Proton kelak, termasuk Proton X70 MC1 kecuali bagi varian tertingginya yang masih menggunakan enjin 1.8L turbo.

Enjin 1.5L TGDI itu menghasilkan 177 PS dan 255 Nm tork sementara enjin 1.8L pula menghasilkan 184 PS dan 300 Nm. Untuk perbandingan bagi model petrol biasa, Proton X70 dengan enjin 1.8L lebih berkuasa. Namun perlu diingatkan bahawa GWM bakal mengetengahkan kenderaan hibrid dan bateri elektrik sebagai produk utama mereka.

Dimensi

Jika saiz menjadi pilihan utama anda, Haval H6 merupakan SUV segmen-C terbesar dalam kelasnya.

Model
Proton X70
Haval H6

Panjang (mm)
4,519
4,635

lebar (mm)
1,831
1,886

Tinggi (mm)
1,694
1,724

Jarak Roda (mm)
2,670
2,738

Kapasiti But (liter)
512
600

Exterior

Reka bentuk luaran Haval H6 ini boleh dikatakan tidaklah begitu extra, namun sifat kemewahan yang dibawa oleh model ini masih dapat dirasakan seperti gril hadapan yang besar dan kemas, lampu utama LED yang garang, lampu brek belakang LED yang bersambung, sunroof serta dipasangkan rim aloi 19 inci.

Sementara itu, Proton X70 MC1 yang baru dilancarkan pada tahun ini masih lagi menggunakan rupa bentuk model terdahulu memandangkan ianya hanyalah minor change atau facelift. Untuk perbandingan, Haval H6 telah memasuki generasi ke-3 pada 2020, menjadikannya beberapa tahun lebih maju daripada model asas Geely yang digunakan sebagai Proton X70 di Malaysia ketika ini. Ini membuatkan rupa kereta ini sedikit rare dan lebih menarik perhatian.

Interior

Ruang dalaman H6 2021 yang serba mewah dilengkapkan dengan warna dwi tona, hitam dan silver sambil menerima kemasan berwarna Rose Gold. Selain itu, kabinnya turut mempunyai:

Panel instrumen digital 10.25 inci
Sistem infotainment bersaiz 12.3 inci
Head Up Display
Penukar gear elektronik
Sistem pengecas tanpa wayar
Pendingin hawa automatik dengan filter N95
Pendingin hawa untuk penumpang belakang.

Sementara itu, Proton X70 MC1 masih lagi mengekalkan interior yang sama seperti sebelumnya. Bezanya cuma kali ini, bumbung dalamnya diwarnakan hitam dan masih tiada sambungan pintar Apple CarPlay mahupun Android Auto terdapat pada paparan infotainment bersaiz 8 inci. Terdapat kemudahan arahan suara Hi Proton yang membolehkan pemandu mengawal tingkap, suhu dan infotaiment.

Anda turut boleh menggunakan kawalan suara untuk bercakap dengan kereta pada Haval H6 seperti mengawal sunroof, tingkap, radio, dan pendingin hawa. Bolehlah bersaing dengan teknologi ‘Hi Proton’.

Ciri Keselamatan

Untuk pasaran Thailand, Haval H6 menawarkan sistem Life+ yang meliputi:

Kamera 360 darjah
Bantuan parkir automatik
Automatic Reverse Assist (ARA)
Adaptive Cruise Control
AEB dengan pengesanan pejalan kaki, basikal dan trafik, peninjau titik buta, pengesanan papan tanda trafik dan keupayaan pemanduan autonomous Tahap 2
Teknologi Wisdom Dodge System (WDS) yang akan mengalihkan kenderaan ke tepi lorong ketika memotong kenderaan besar, sebelum kembali ketengah selepas memotong

Untuk perbandingan, Proton X70 pula hadir dengan ciri keselamatan terkini seperti:

AEB
Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
Adaptive Cruise Control
Lane Departure warning (LDW)
Blind Spot Monitor
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Kamera 360 darjah

Harga

Dari segi harga, jika Haval H6 dapat dijual pada harga yang kompetitif dan tidak terlalu mahal, ia berkemungkinan bakal menjadi penentu utama penerimaan kereta itu di Malaysia. Proton X50 dan Proton X70 meraih kedudukan sebagai raja SUV segmen-B dan segmen-C kerana faktor harganya yang lebih mampu milik berbanding pencabarnya.

Ketika ini harga bagi Haval H6 masih belum didedahkan, namun jika ia berada tidak jauh dengan harga Proton X70 yang bernilai RM128,800 bagi varian tertinggi, kedudukan Proton X70 sebagai peneraju SUV segmen-C mungkin bakal tergugat.

Servis Selepas Jualan

Menurut GWM, mereka mempunyai perancangan untuk mengutamakan pembangunan rangkaian operasi demi menghasilkan pengalaman pelanggan yang lebih baik untuk rakyat Malaysia. Penekanan akan diberi pada bahagian selepas jualan, dengan langkah yang akan diambil termasuk mewujudkan gudang alat ganti di Lembah Klang. Jenama ini juga akan memperkenalkan pusat talian servis pelanggan yang beroperasi sepanjang masa, dan disokong dengan pasukan servis teknikal.

Untuk Proton X70, servis selepas jualannya mungkin tidaklah sehebat kereta lain, namun menurut Proton isu itu sedang diselesaikan. Jika Haval H6 berjaya menjual kereta dengan harga yang kompetitif dan mengelak isu kekurangan alat ganti seperti yang dialami oleh Proton, ada peluang untuk Haval H6 menjadi raja SUV segmen-C.

Kesimpulan

Jika GWM memperkenalkan Haval H6 sebagai pilihan yang lebih baik dari segi kuasa, ciri dan nilai, tidak dinafikan bahawa X70 akan mempunyai lawan yang cukup kental untuk ditandingi. Perkara yang paling membimbangkan bagi Proton ialah kekurangan dari segi prestasi enjinnya memandangkan X70 mahupun rakan pasaran luar negara (Boyue, Azkarra, Emgrand X7 Sport) tidak mempunyai sebarang bentuk elektrifikasi dalam masa terdekat.

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All-New 2023 Toyota Vios Teased For Thailand – Sleek New Design, Interior, DNGA Platform?

There’s an all-new version of the Toyota Vios on the horizon that’s slated for an early August launch in Thailand where it’ll be known as the Yaris Ativ. Since it, codename D29A, should be arriving in Malaysia before long, here’s what we can look forward to.

First of all there’s a new shape, evident from the teaser image Toyota Thailand has released. The exterior now carries a more sloping roofline that with a C-pillar buttress that extends almost to the very tip of the boot lid.

2023 Toyota Vios – Coming to Malaysia soon?

The shade of blue seen on this very dimly lit photo does also remind us of the Celestite Grey Metallic found on the Corolla Cross Hybrid, though we’re pretty confident that we’ll find the usual fare of carried-over naturally aspirated 1.5-litre VVT-i four-cylinder petrol.

Specifically, we’d be unsurprised if the 1.5-litre 2NR-FE unit will be called up for duty again, boasting the familiar 107PS and 140Nm sent to the front wheels via a CVT. However, reports out of Thailand suggest that a smaller capacity 1.2-litre petrol will be offered as a more budget-oriented engine option, though it’s doubtful that we’ll see this in Malaysia.

2023 Toyota Vios – Possible powertrains?

Still, there is the possibility of a 1.5-litre Dynamic Force 3-cylinder unit being paired with Toyota’s series hybrid tech as already seen in the Japan-spec Toyota Aqua (or Prius C) as it’s known elsewhere. In those applications, it generates a combined output of 116PS and would be a strong contender against the Honda City RS equipped with their e:HEV powertrain.

Up front, there’s a fairly big grille element that integrates nicely into the LED headlights with an L-shaped daytime running light signature. Interestingly, Toyota has outfitted the Vios with sequential rear indicator lights.

2023 Vios vs 2022 Civic – Decisions, decisions…

Inside is probably just as much a departure as the exterior is from the Vios we know in showrooms today. You certainly can’t call it dated as we see a very minimal two-tone aesthetic that’s been most prevalent in cars from Mazda and, more recently, the Honda Civic (FE).

Perched atop the centre stack is a prominent touchscreen infotainment unit that even has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support displayed on the home screen. The contrasting dark red leather extends to the centre armrest upholstery and seats, which are also given a quilted effect.

It looks considerably more upmarket than anything we’ve seen in Malaysia wearing a Vios or Yaris badge, and it could even sway prospective City buyers just based on the exterior and interior appeal alone.

A more curious possibility coming out of the rumour mill is the speculation that the all-new 2023 Vios is based on DNGA (Daihatsu New Global Architecture), such as that shared with the 2nd-generation Perodua Alza and Perodua Ativa.

This does bode well as we’ve known this vehicle platform to be very adept at maximising interior space and packaging, though we will miss any dynamic advantages lost over the fact that Toyota passed up TNGA underpinnings.

With the reveal confirmed for 9th August, we won’t have long to wait before all these questions are put to rest and a new set emerges to replace them such as: (1) When is it coming to Malaysia?, and (2) How much will the new Vios be?

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RM8 Billion In Fuel Subsidies Went to T20 – Tengku Zafrul

Finance minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz stated that the T20 group has so far enjoyed RM8 billion in fuel subsidies.

It comes as no surprise considering that the blanket fuel subsidy can be enjoyed by all Malaysians, but more so by the top 20% of earners living in the country. To compare, the B40 group is said to have benefited from the fuel subsidy of around RM6 billion.

All the more reason why Tengku Zafrul keeps pushing the point where the blanket subsidies are benefiting the higher income earners more compared to those within the lower income bracket. This is also the reason why the government is pushing for a more targeted fuel subsidy system.

Fuel subsidy system already being tested

According to a written parliamentary reply, Tengku Zafrul stated “The (initial) testing will be followed by more extensive testing. It is expected to take between three and six months before the new system is implemented nationwide.”

With fuel subsidies expected to set back the Malaysian government around RM30 billion this year, the right system and timing for the fuel subsidy implementation are crucial not only for those living in different areas, but also to avoid any unwanted inflation and economic downfall.

Once the system has been finalised, the government will most likely introduce the new system in stages. For some of you reading this, be prepared to pay more for that lovely RON 95 petrol in the future. Enjoy that RM2.05/litre while you still can.

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KL Northern Dispersal Expressway Planned For 2024

A new highway called the KL Northern Dispersal Expressway (KL Node) is currently being planned to connect the northern and eastern corridors of the Klang Valley.

Proposed to begin in 2024, the so-called final link in the plans for the KL Outer Ring Road system will theoretically help ease some congestion on the Middle Ring Road 2, particularly in Jalan Kuching as it connects the KL-Kuala Selangor Expressway (LATAR) and East Klang Valley Expressway (EKVE).

Connection between LATAR & EKVE

The KL Node highway will also be mostly elevated throughout its 24km span which is said to run from Hulu Kelang, Melawati, Melati, Gombak, Selayang Heights, to Kanching Eco Forest Park. Quite a nice-looking plan since the entry and exit points for the LATAR and EKVE are in Rawang (Kanching Eco Forest Park) and Ukay Perdana (Hulu Kelang).

The KL Node highway project is currently being proposed and finalised by Sambungan Lebuhraya Timur Sdn Bhd (SLT). HSS Engineers Berhad has already been appointed as the project consultant for this particular project.

SLT is currently getting ready to get the final approval with ongoing discussions with some of Selangor’s government agencies, which include the likes of the Ampang Jaya and Selayang municipal councils. It’s a crucial process as the KL Node highway plans to pass through areas that include hills, villages, and even residential areas.

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5-STAR Asean NCAP – The Alza Is A Budget MPV Rich With Standard Safety Features

The new 2022 Alza gets a 5-Star NCAP rating – and the main reason for it is due to Perodua’s generosity of kitting out the 7-seater with a lot of safety kit as standard.

While it’s a given that most buyers are first attracted to a car’s looks, more and more motorists are choosing their cars based on their exterior design as well as their safety features.

With a record-breaking number of bookings for Perodua, we’re pretty sure that some buyers have chosen the all-new Perodua Alza because it has a 5-star Asean NCP rating.

One of the reasons why it has received such high praise from Asean NCAP is because it comes standard across the range with passive safety features such as 6 airbags, Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, and parking sensors.

But it doesn’t end there because the new Alza is the latest vehicle in Perodua’s lineup to get Perodua’s Smart Drive Assist (PSDA) as a standard feature.

All variants of the Alza come with the Advanced Safety Assist (ASA) suite of safety features, which kits out the 7-seater with: 

Pre-Collision Braking (Autonomous Emergency Braking)
Pedal Misoperation Control
Front Departure Alert
Lane Departure Warning
Lane Departure Prevention (lane keeping assist)
LED Auto High Beam

Now that’s an impressive list of safety features, especially when you consider that you are getting it in the base car, the Alza 1.5L X, which costs only RM62,500.

As for the safety features for the top variant, the 1.5L AV, you get to add all the above with Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capabilities as it comes with:

Adaptive Cruise Control
Lane Keep Control
Blind Spot Monitoring
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
360° Panoramic View Monitor
Adaptive Driving Beam

That Adaptive Driving Beam is actually an exciting bit of kit. It’s more sophisticated than the regular headlight found on the base variant and is standard for the H and AV models.

The Matrix headlights utilises the windscreen camera on the Alza to virtually allow you to have your high beams on all the time. It does this by switching off certain high beam diodes in certain situations, which allows it to light up specific areas without blinding other motorists.

It’s not something new as it was first seen on the Ativa AV, but we feel that it is a bit underappreciated, especially at the prices Perodua vehicles are going for.

For those who think that the Alza is a flimsy bit of tin can, the NCAP testers also found that the Alza “remained stable and provided good protection to the occupants” during the frontal offset test (which is basically a head-on collision test). They also found that during the side impact test, the driver and passengers had adequate protection.

When you consider the safety aspect of the MPV and its other attributes like being able to carry seven passengers comfortably, there’s little wonder why it has shattered Perodua’s booking records.

After eight years since the last Alza, Perodua has definitely taken a huge leap by giving an MPV to the people, which can be heavily considered as the most value for money MPV in the market. Your move Proton!

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More Drug Tests Needed For Heavy Vehicle Drivers – Transport Minister

Malaysia’s Transport Minister, Dr Wee Ka Siong, is pushing for more periodic and random drug tests for heavy vehicle drivers.

A recent increase in road accidents involving heavy vehicles has been a point of notice for Dr Wee. Besides increasing the number of drug tests, Dr Wee is also pushing for heavier penalties for those who are found guilty of driving under the influence.

*Image credit: The Star

JPJ, MIROS & Puspakom to investigate the causes

Relevant agencies have been instructed by Dr Wee to investigate the causes of the road accidents involving heavy vehicles, which includes the Road Transport Department (JPJ), the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS), and even Puspakom.

Dr Wee posted about this on his Facebook page earlier this month, stating that more screening tests will be done with the help of PDRM as well as the National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK). These will be conducted at randomised times and locations, including transport and logistics companies.

*Image credit: Bernama

“Effective solutions need to be expedited. We do not want such irresponsible companies to get away with it and continue to be greedy and make a profit to the point of neglecting the safety of employees, who are their drivers, and those of other road users,” stated Dr Wee.

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Tempahan Kereta Tertunggak Di Malaysia Melebihi 500,000 Unit

Tempahan tertunggak kereta di Malaysia ketika ini dipercayai mencecah lebih 500,000 unit berbanding 267,000 unit yang diumumkan oleh Kementerian Kewangan pada 20 Jun lalu.

Penganalisis HLIB Research, Daniel Wong, berkata jumlah keseluruhan industri (TIV) untuk tahun ini diunjurkan meningkat ekoran jangkaan penghantaran tempahan tinggi yang berterusan pada bulan mendatang.

Penghantaran Tempahan Tinggi Disebabkan Tempahan Tertunggak

Wong turut menyatakan jangkaannya itu disokong oleh tempahan tertunggak yang besar untuk pengeluar peralatan asli (OEM) utama seperti Perodua, Proton, Honda, Toyota serta jenama lain.

Disebabkan itu, beliau berkata Persatuan Automotif Malaysia (MAA) turut meningkatkan jangkaan TIV kepada 630,000 bagi 2022 berbanding 600,000 sebelum ini.

“Kami menganggarkan tempahan tertunggak industri ketika ini melonjak kepada lebih 500,000 unit berbanding 267,000 unit yang dinyatakan semasa pengumuman Kementerian Kewangan mengenai pengecualian Cukai Jualan dan Perkhidmatan (SST) berakhir untuk tempahan baharu menjelang 30 Jun 2022 masih terpakai untuk penghantaran kenderaan sebelum 31 Mac 2023,” katanya.

Meskipun jangkaan pemulihan TIV berterusan sehingga akhir tahun dengan disokong oleh paras tempahan tertunggak yang tinggi, Wong berkata pihaknya masih mengekalkan penarafan ‘neutral’ bagi sektor automotif dan menjangkakan TIV akan menjadi perlahan pada 2023.

Jualan Industri Meningkat 33%

Perodua mengekalkan kedudukan utamanya dengan penguasaan pasaran sebanyak 38.4%, manakala tempahan tertunggak terkini mereka mencecah lebih 243,000 unit.

Model terbaharu mereka, Perodua Alza 2022 telah menerima lebih 30,000 tempahan dan Perodua komited untuk menyiapkan 26,000 unit sebulan bagi memenuhi tempahan tertunggak menjelang 31 Mac 2023.

Sementara itu, Proton pula menjangkakan untuk meningkatkan penghantarannya pada separuh kedua 2022, sekali gus membolehkan pengeluar kereta nasional itu mencapai sasaran jualan antara 136,000 hingga 150,000 unit.

Ketika Ini, tempahan tertunggak Proton melebihi 150,000 unit dibantu oleh permintaan yang menggalakkan daripada pengguna. Proton juga komited untuk memenuhi tempahan tertunggak bagi model sedia ada sebelum memperkenalkan model Geely baharu pada tahun hadapan.

Industri automotif menjual 331,386 unit bagi tempoh Januari hingga Jun tahun ini, melonjak 33% berbanding 249,178 unit yang dicatatkan tempoh sama tahun lalu. Angka tersebut disumbangkan oleh:

Kenderaan penumpang: 293,540 unit
Kenderaan komersial 37,846 unit

MAA menyemak naik unjuran TIV bagi 2022 kepada 630,000 unit bersandarkan jangkaan pemulihan ekonomi Malaysia yang berterusan selepas merekodkan prestasi memberangsangkan pada suku pertama 2022.

Unjuran angka TIV lebih baik tahun ini juga akan dipacu oleh pengenalan model baharu dan kenderaan elektrik penuh yang ditawarkan pada harga berpatutan dan kompetitif yang bakal terus menarik minat pelanggan.  

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Review: 2022 G01 BMW X3 sDrive20i M Sport (LCI) – Extra Mild Or Mildly Extra?

In Malaysia, your choice for a premium, sort-of-mid-size SUV (or SAV, as BMW insists) invariably lands you between the Mercedes-Benz GLC and one of these, the BMW X3, which recently received some spec shuffling and a visual restyle. But is it more of the same?

Prior to this, prospective X3 owners looking for a fewer-frills variant were pointed to the sDrive20i xLine, which kicked off the range at around RM270k, but with invariable price increases and the re-introduction of SST after a 2 year lax period, this newer entry-X3 is being lobbed for a hair under RM316k.

This is one of BMW’s more subdued facelift treatments too, or LCI (Life Cycle Impulse) as they call it, with much of the alterations being cosmetic. There are new additions to the equipment list, including some interesting choices of powertrain, but none of that applies to this sDrive20i.

The Volvo XC60, due to it being offered as PHEV-only, manages to price itself just out of direct contention but makes up for that with a very generous feature set and standard equipment. However, some will insist on German-only and can be loyal to a fault to a certain brand, which does leave us to wonder how much Audi, with the Q5, is letting its rivals run away with the market. Ours, specifically.

2022 BMW X3 sDrive20i M Sport – Exterior

That face up front is the biggest differentiator here at least in terms of pure surface area as there’s no mistaking those enlarged kidney grilles – BMW just can’t help but scale it up. Thankfully they’re joined by the M Sport package’s little touches to spruce up the visual.

Especially against this Alpine White body colour, the gloss black Shadowline trim accents really stand out. Paired with the more aggressive side skirting, bicolour 19-inch Style 887M wheels, trapezoidal exhaust finishers, smoked-out effect headlight and tail light housings, new headlight projector units and daytime running lights, this 2022 revision does not give off the impression that it sits at the bottom of the range.

With less equipment to lug around and rear-wheel drive, there’s potentially a more rewarding drive to be enjoyed too – but we’ll get to that later.

You’ll definitely recognise it as a ‘newer’ X3, but should quickly comprehend it as the G01 we’ve known since its international debut in 2017, albeit tweaked here and there. Next to the similarly priced (X253) GLC 200 AMG-Line, we’d cede the overall design nod to the Merc, but for sheer distinctiveness on the road, the X3 has more ‘look at me’ value.

2022 BMW X3 sDrive20i M Sport – Interior

Even stepping inside, you’ll again need a keen eye to spot the differences between the older X3 and this 2022 revision. While the general layout and ergonomics remain consistent, individual elements such as the air conditioning vents and centre console controls are obviously new.

There’s generally a narrowing between the older model and the more current interior pieces from the 4 Series and newer 3 Series. With the M Sport pack, the sDrive20i also gains a chunkier steering wheel, more supportive ‘sport’ front seats and alloy pedals, but the most refreshing option fitted to the test unit we sampled was the Mocha-dyed Vernasca leather upholstery.

This small contrasting shade alone lets us appreciate the cabin and its high-quality construction so much more. And it isn’t like you could let more light in with the admittedly unnecessary sunroof as that’s reserved for the step-up xDrive30i variant.

As before, it’s a fine thing to sit in with lovely materials to touch where it matters. Build quality and finishing were also pretty good with the exception of the centre console tray cover that needed way more force to open once closed. We’re hoping this was a fluke issue.

The X3 is pretty spacious too with the rear bench comfortably (and plushly) able to seat 3 adults, just as long as the middle passenger is willing to share foot space to the side as that centre driveline tunnel is fairly obstructive.

Though the seats don’t fold completely flat, they do free up a total of 1,600 litres when made horizontal in comparison to the 550 litres with them left upright.

2022 BMW X3 sDrive20i M Sport – Engine And Drivetrain

The word I’d describe the rest of the BMW X3 experience here is ‘familiar’, almost to a fault. Upfront and longitudinally mounted sits the automaker’s B48 unit, which is used across all variants besides the M40i and up.

This variant is the runt of the litter, its 2.0-litre turbocharged inline 4-cylinder is down-tuned to a more meagre 184PS at 5,000rpm and 300Nm of sustained peak torque from 1,350rpm to 4,250rpm, though it can easily produce 252PS and 350Nm from the factory in the xDrive30i.

That hasn’t seemed to dull its responsiveness or lust for revs as it pulls clean and strong if you let it. Even better, the rear-drive layout here makes the power delivery feel much less ponderous, lending it a sportier feel despite any impediments its touring-spec Bridgestone Turanza run-flat tyres might have incurred.

It feels much more ‘BMW’ than the last X3 I drove (xDrive-equipped), but that could also be down to the M Sport suspension, though I doubt that. Shame, then, that the usually brilliant ZF-8HP automatic transmission tended to seem a little unsettled at low speed where there was some odd stutter during shifts, even when left in D.

There are no issues on the highway, though. Even with less power, there’s something about the way these engines are tuned that make them feel punchier than their on-paper numbers suggest, and this isn’t quite the case with the GLC 200 and its supposedly gutsier 200PS 2.0-litre. If you can live with your BMW needing an unbragworthy 8.2 seconds to reach 100km/h, you’ll be more than happy with the sDrive20i.

2022 BMW X3 sDrive20i M Sport – Behind The Wheel

Predictably, another area where the X3 pulls ahead of other premium SUVs is the drive. Against the aforementioned GLC and the Volvo XC60, maybe even the last Q5 I drove, the X3 behaves very comparably to the 3 Series on the road – that is to say, very nicely. They’re all just as easy to get around town with but it’s the open, twisty roads where the SUV formula tends to fall apart.

Comfort levels remain high and cabin insulation is superb, for the most part, but the manner in which the G01 continues to track a bend, or a series of bends, so fluidly is very impressive.

That said there are lots to poke at when it comes to outright handling – dull steering feel, over-dampened suspension, a little too much body roll, my long-running hatred of run-flat tyres – but in the context of its rivals in the higher-riding premium SUVs space, there’s no question that this is the most rewarding to drive in its class.

Yes, that excludes the heavier, more cumbersome xDrive30i and xDrive30e. Short of a comparison with the X3 M40i or X3M, this sDrive20i with its fewer-frills spec sheet, rear-wheel drive and ‘only’ 1.7-tonne kerb weight is the most dynamically talented. There are just some really good genes here.

2022 BMW X3 sDrive20i M Sport – Tech And Safety

When you’re sat in the X3, the centrally perched 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment display, now running BMW OS 7, is the most immediate upgrade noticeable as the smaller 8.8-inch centre panel had been a sore spot for buyers of the previous base X3.

There’s no fully digitised Live Cockpit Plus instrument cluster but the halfway-house imitation OLED analogue dials are much more legible at the expense of customisability and flash. You’ll also get the full complement of BMW’s live services such as live Maps, BMW Connected, and over-the-air updates.

Over the xDrive30i, other noteworthy tech suite omissions for the sDrive20i include a wireless smartphone charging pad, as well as a Harman/Kardon surround sound system, but the unbranded ‘HiFi’ audio system supplied here is no slouch either.

There are 12-speakers and a subwoofer that delivered sonic punch and clarity to a point that I honestly did not miss the fancier setup at all, especially when I had the equaliser dialled in. H/K is but a shell of its former glorious self since the acquisition of its parent company Harman by Samsung anyway but…that’s a rant for another day.

BMW have included their Driving Assistant package as standard that includes Front Collision Warning with Brake Intervention. That’s just an overlong BMW term for Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), but the suite also has Lane Change Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and a Lane Departure Warning system that is thankfully much less annoying/obtrusive than that from other automakers. Unfortunately, there’s no Adaptive Cruise Control.

2022 BMW X3 sDrive20i M Sport – Conclusion

If you loved the X3 before, there’s no real reason to reverse your position with this 2022 revision. After all, BMW isn’t making any claims of it being a revolutionary step forward over the 2017 G01 series, but merely improving upon it where possible based on what has been introduced since its original debut.

Unsurprisingly, you might immediately sense this car isn’t especially new given how subtle some of these alterations are, but for Malaysian buyers, there is cause for some excitement. Though prices are a little higher than before, the X3 now comes as standard with the M Sport package.

In addition to this, there are some new additions to the equipment list that does improve upon the value proposition over the previous entry-variant: the sDrive20i xLine.

Ultimately, this is still the X3. It still drives the best among its peers and besides that, remains a very competent, practical, comfortable, and handsome SUV (SAV?) all-rounder that should be on everyone’s shortlist.

Though it should easily manage to hold its own against the ageing and now outdated X253 Mercedes-Benz GLC, it’s only a matter of time before its all-new successor (the X254) finds its way onto Malaysian shores.

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Tarik Lesen Bengkel Jika Ubah Suai Motosikal Melebihi Modifikasi Ditetapkan JPJ

Mana-mana pemilik bengkel yang dikenal pasti menawarkan khidmat mengubah suai motosikal melebihi modifikasi ditetapkan Jabatan Pengangkutan Jalan (JPJ) perlu ditarik semula lesen perniagaan mereka.

Perkara itu disuarakan oleh pakar keselamatan jalan raya, Profesor Madya Dr Law Teik Hua yang mengatakan modifikasi yang disarankan hanya melibatkan:

Pengubahsuaian kecil
Pemasangan alat kelengkapan tambahan
Pemasangan aksesori yang tidak mengubah identiti dan tidak mengganggu ciri-ciri keselamatan kenderaan.

Ambil Tindakan Terhadap Pemilik Bengkel

Menurutnya, Akta Pengangkutan Jalan 1987 jelas menyatakan mana-mana individu tidak dibenarkan mengubah suai kenderaan sama ada motosikal atau kereta termasuk kenderaan komersial melebihi modifikasi yang ditetapkan.

Susulan itu, beliau berpendapat bahawa penguat kuasa perlu mengambil tindakan serta-merta dan memberi hukuman berat kepada pemilik, termasuk menarik semula lesen perniagaan.

“Jika sudah dapat bukti bahawa pemilik bengkel ubah suai motosikal sehingga tidak diterima oleh JPJ, ia sudah menjadi bukti kukuh untuk mereka diambil tindakan,” katanya kepada Sinar Harian.

Beliau mengakui kegiatan pengubahsuaian berlebihan itu sukar dikesan penguat kuasa berikutan lokasi premis kebiasaannya adalah di kawasan tersorok.

“Tapi masalahnya mereka (pemilik bengkel) buat (ubah suai) secara senyap-senyap. Jadi di mana kita nak cari lokasi mereka?” soalnya.

Menurutnya lagi, permintaan yang tinggi untuk mengubah suai dan meningkatkan kelajuan motosikal bagi tujuan lumba haram menyebabkan pemilik bengkel akan terus menjalankan perniagaan meskipun sedar ia menyalahi peraturan jalan raya.

6 Pengubahsuaian Motosikal Yang Tidak Dibenarkan JPJ

Tidak Menggunakan cermin pandang sisi

Menggunakan tayar terlalu kecil atau tayar sotong

Menukar ekzos biasa kepada ekzos yang berbunyi bising

Menukar swing arm untuk mengurangkan berat motosikal

Menukar blok motosikal untuk memberi lebih kelajuan

Menukar unit kawalan enjin (ECU) untuk mematikan batasan had laju (cut off) serta memberi lebih kelajuan

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Perbandingan MPV 7-Tempat Duduk Mampu Milik Di Malaysia

Adakah Perodua Alza 2022 merupakan MPV 7 tempat duduk terbaik yang boleh dibeli berdasarkan harga yang ditawarkan berbanding MPV 7 tempat duduk lain di Malaysia?

Susulan berita berkenaan MPV baharu Perodua Alza 2022 yang telah menerima lebih 30,000 tempahan, adakah ia bermaksud ketika ini Perodua Alza merupakan MPV yang paling berbaloi untuk dimiliki berbanding pencabarnya yang lain?

Kami senaraikan beberapa MPV 7 tempat duduk di bawah RM100,000 bagi mereka yang sedang mencari kenderaan sesuai untuk kegunaan seisi keluarga.

MPV 7-Tempat Duduk Mampu Milik 

Model
Mitsubishi Xpander
Honda BR-V 1.5 V
Perodua Alza AV
Toyota Veloz
Proton Exora Premium

Harga
RM96,800
RM97,700
RM75,500
RM95,000*
RM66,800

Panjang (mm)
4,475
4,457
4,425
4,475
4,610

Lebar (mm)
1,750
1,735
1,730
1,750
1,809

Tinggi (mm)
1,730
1,677
1,670
1,700
1,691

Jarak Roda (mm)
2,775
2,662
2,750
2,750
2,730

Enjin dan Output

1.5L MIVEC DOHC

105 PS & 141 Nm

1.5L SOHC iVTEC

120 PS & 145 Nm

1.5L 2NR-VE DVVT-i

106 PS &  138 Nm

1.5L 2NR-VE DVVT-i

106 PS & 137 Nm

1.5L Turbo DOHC VVT

103 PS & 205 Nm

Transmisi
4-Kelajuan Automatik
CVT
CVT
CVT
CVT

Saiz Tayar
205/55 R16
195/60 R16
195/60 R16
205/50 R17
205/50 R16

Pacuan
FWD
FWD
FWD
FWD
FWD

Ciri Keselamatan

2 airbags

ABS, EBD, BA

Traction Control

Hill Start Assist

All-Round Monitor

Driving Video Recorder

Parking Sensors

2 airbags

ABS, EBD, BA

Vehicle Stability Assist

Traction Control

Hill Start Assist

Reverse Camera and Sensors

6 airbags

ABS, EBD, BA

Vehicle Stability Control

Traction Control

Hill Start Assist

Digital Driving Recorder

360 camera

Auto Brake Hold

Perodua Smart Drive Assist: (Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning and Prevention, Pre-Collision Warning and Braking, Blind Spot Monitor, RCTA, Adaptive Driving Beam)

Toyota Safety Sense (TSS)

Pre-Collision System

 Adaptive Cruise Control

Auto Hold

2 Airbags

ABS, EBD, ESC

Rear Parking sensors

Reverse Camera

Harga

Jika melihat dari kedudukan harga MPV keluaran nasional, Alza dan Exora muncul sebagai pilihan mampu milik terbaik antara yang tersenarai. Walau bagaimanapun, Proton Exora merupakan model MPV lama yang tidak dipenuhi dengan teknologi keselamatan aktif yang terkini.

Sementara itu, Alza yang berkongsi platform DNGA yang sama seperti Toyota Veloz pula dilihat pilihan yang terbaik dari segala segi memandangkan ia memiliki ciri-ciri yang hampir sama dengan Veloz, namun dijual kira-kira RM19,500 lebih murah berbanding model Toyota itu.

Saiz

MPV 7 tempat duduk seharusnya mempunyai ruang yang besar dan selesa di bahagian penumpang. Dari segi lebar dan panjang, agak mengejutkan kerana Exora muncul sebagai juara. Namun angka tersebut tidaklah melambangkan keluasan dan keselesaan dengan tepat di dalam kabinnya kerana ia bergantung pada rekaan serta kualiti binaan.

Output Enjin

Meskipun enjin i-VTEC pada Honda BR-V menghasilkan output tertinggi dengan 120 PS, namun kadar tork maksimumnya tidaklah sehebat enjin turbo pada Exora yang menghasilkan sekitar 205 Nm. Kesemua MPV yang disenaraikan menggunakan transmisi CVT, kecuali Xpander yang menggunakan transmisi 4-kelajuan automatik.

Ciri Keselamatan

Tidak dinafikan, ciri keselamatan yang ditawarkan pada Alza dan Veloz adalah ciri yang paling termaju dan terkini. Berbanding MPV lain, hanya Alza sahaja yang dilengkapi dengan 6 airbag serta ciri Perodua Smart Drive Assist seperti Toyota Safety Sense (TSS). Meskpun Toyota belum menjelaskan ciri lengkap TSS bagi Veloz untuk pasaran Malaysia, namun sudah pasti ia bakal menyamai ciri keselamatan pada Alza.

Kesimpulan

Kesimpulannya, hanya Exora dan Alza sahaja yang dijual pada harga di bawah RM80,000 sementara kesemua pencabar lainnya berada pada lingkungan RM95,000 ke atas. Jika anda mencari MPV termurah, Proton Exora memang pilihan terbaik, namun harus diingatkan bahawa ia merupakan model lama jika nak dibandingkan dengan MPV lain yang disenaraikan.

Ini sedikit sebanyak membuatkan Perodua Alza sebagai MPV terbaik dari segala segi berdasarkan harga serta ciri-ciri yang ditawarkan memandangkan ia masih baru dilancarkan. Walau bagaimanapun, untuk mendapatkan perbezaan sebenar untuk antara MPV yang disebutkan ini, pastikan anda pandu uji kesemua model ini terlebih dahulu sebelum membuat pilihan.

 

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