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This one-off Alfa Romeo Giulia SWB Zagato is insanely cantik

This is what happens when you hand over an Alfa Romeo Giulia to the Italian design house, Zagato.

Dubbed the Alfa Romeo Giulia SWB Zagato, this one-off masterpiece is based on the Giulia Quadrifoglio but has gone through quite a customisation journey at the hands of the geniuses over at Zagato.

2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 upgraded to GTAm spec

Starting at the heart of it all, this particular Giulia comes with an upgraded GTAm spec 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 that punches out 533hp and 600Nm of torque for a more ‘track-focused’ driving experience.

The German client that we assume paid a huge chunk of wealth to get this done wasn’t interested in the automatic gearbox, which is why this one-of-one Giulia is fitted with a six-speed manual transmission.

Shortened wheelbase + carbon fibre bodywork

While mere mortals should be satisfied with slapping on some aftermarket parts, Zagato went to town by realising the SWB namesake by shortening the Giulia’s wheelbase and turning it into a two-door beauty.

This unique bodywork was brought to life with extensive use of carbon fibre that ties everything together to pay homage to some of the SZ builds back in the 1990s. This is most apparent via the additions of front vents, side curves, and a rear diffuser.

It won’t be long before the definition of the word ‘sexy’ is defined as this custom Alfa Romeo Giulia SWB Zagato. If you happen to disagree, get your eyes and head checked because this is mental in the best possible manner.

 

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VinFast VF 8 EV arrives in the US – 288km range enough to satisfy Americans?

The first batch of VinFast VF 8 EV units has arrived in the US, but does it have what it takes to stack up against the stiff competition?

A total of 999 units of the VinFast VF 8 City Edition braved the seas from Vietnam to California. This will be followed by deliveries to customers which are set to begin before the year ends. Just in time for the new year.

288km EPA range a ‘boo’ factor for the US?

An article posted by Carscoops seems to indicate that the VinFast VF 8’s EPA range of 288km is not nearly competitive enough for its price tag which starts from $59,000 or around RM261,000.

Within that price range, those living in the country can opt for other EVs from the likes of Cadillac, Audi, and even Tesla where all of them offer significantly higher EV driving ranges from 380km (Audi G4 50 e-tron quattro) to 531km (Tesla Model Y dual Motor Long Range).

402hp with 471km WLTP range?

With good looks and great power options that go up to 402hp and 620Nm of torque thanks to its dual-electric motor and AWD setup, the VinFast VF 8 actually carries a WLTP range of up to 471km thanks to its 87.7kWh battery pack.

VinFast representatives in the US have stated that the range it offers is more than enough to cover the usual daily travels but to make the VF 8 even more desirable, each unit comes with a class-leading 10-year warranty or 125,000 miles (just over 200,000km). Its battery pack also gets 10 years of warranty but with unlimited mileage.

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Batang Kali-Genting road to be closed for ONE YEAR

The deadly landslide last week has led to the full closure of the Batang Kali-Genting road for repair works.

Those who frequent the route will need to take note as it’ll be closed off to the public for a year, according to the Works Ministry. That might sound like a long time, but it is necessary to ensure everyone’s safety in the long run.

Affected slopes & roads to begin repair works

*Image credit: NST

According to the Works Ministry secretary-general, Datuk Wan Ahmad Uzir Wan Sulaiman, an entire year will be dedicated to assessing, repairing, and fortifying all the damaged slopes and roads. A more thorough assessment will kick off once the search and rescue efforts at the affected camping site are concluded.

Despite the many theories surrounding the tragic landslide at the Father’s Organic Farm campsite, Wan Ahmad Uzir stated that the cause of it all might have been due to natural causes upon detecting active underground water flow at the affected slope that’s connected to beneath the campsite.

No more developments in high-risk areas

*Image credit: Malaysia Trend

The Public Works Department also issued a formal statement stating that the massive slop failure was due to a combination of retrogressive translational and debris flow which caused not one but two massive landslides.

Temporary preventive measures have been deployed like covering the exposed areas with tarpaulin sheets as well as diverting surface water flow to the other side of the affected areas. Tilt sensors have also been installed to further monitor for any more ground movements.

Over 1,000 slopes across federal roads have been identified as high-risk areas and the Works Ministry has announced that there will be no developments in the marked areas until further notice, particularly the red zones.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to those who have been affected by this unfortunate incident.

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2023 Toyota Hilux GR Sport spotted in Thailand?

Someone in Thailand has spotted what possibly might be the 2023 Toyota Hilux GR Sport.

Covered in stickers to hide its true identity, Headlightmag reported that it looks like the 2021 Toyota Hilux GR Sport but plastered with parts that transform its looks into a more rugged beast.

Toyota bringing the fight to Ford’s Ranger Raptor?

*Image credit: Headlightmag

The Ford Ranger Raptor is arguably one of the best pickup trucks within its segment, which is understandable if or when Toyota decides to bring out the big guns with a new Toyota Hilux offering. Considering that Thailand is regarded as the ‘Pickup Truck Capital of the World’, we understand if they’re planning to start the fight there where the big money is at.

These spy shots also resemble the Toyota Hilux Rogue quite a bit, the recently updated model launched in Australia back in July. Eagle-eyed enthusiasts may pick up on its slightly beefier suspension setup as well as brakes to possibly tackle more extreme offroad conditions.

Different design cues from the Hilux Rogue?

We can also see that the front-end design is slightly different from the current Aussie Hilux Rogue offering via its positioning. Although camouflaged, the impressions seemed to be a bit different and it’s also apparent looking at the slightly higher-placed fog lights.

Not much else can be said about the specs inside and out, but Headlightmag expects that the new and possibly Toyota Hilux GR Sport to be fitted with the 2.8-litre 1GD-FTV turbodiesel unit that punches out 204hp and 500Nm of torque, which is then connected to either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission with sequential shift.

Another point to take note of is the fact that the Toyota Hilux GR Sport is set to be launched in Australia within the second half of 2023 to replace the outgoing Rugged X variant.

 

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2023 Toyota Yaris Cross GR Sport lands in Australia – RM106k

The 2023 Toyota Yaris Cross GR Sport has finally landed in Australia following its official introduction in Europe back in September.

Looking at the country’s Toyota Yaris Cross offerings, the GR Sport variant is based on the mid-spec Yaris Cross GXL FWD hybrid model which in turn makes the GR Sport a step lower compared to the flagship Yaris Cross model in Australia – the Urban AWD.

1.5-litre three-cylinder hybrid engine – 116PS & 120Nm

Based on the price tag and model segment, the 2023 Toyota Yaris Cross GR Sport should be in the running to go against the Honda HR-V RS e:HEV for its money. With that being said, its 1.5-litre three-cylinder Atkinson-cycle engine with two electric motors produces a combined output of 116PS – 15PS down from the HR-V hybrid variant.

Torque-wise, the spec sheets of the Yaris Cross GR Sport states that it has 120Nm of torque but no mentions if that’s the combined output or just from the 1.5-litre three-cylinder banger. It’s going to be a crucial talking point since the Honda HR-V RS e:HEV punches out 253Nm of torque in total. Nevertheless, the fuel mileage for the Yaris Cross wins at 3.8L/100km as compared to the HR-V’s 4.1L/100km.

GR Sport accents & accessories

The 2023 Toyota Yaris Cross GR Sport comes with a few extras compared to the GXL model it is based on such as sportier 18-inch five-spoke alloy wheels, retuned suspension that has been lowered by 10mm, mesh-pattern front grille, and black side mirrors.

Other updates and upgrades include red brake calipers, black leather/suede upholstery, GR emblems, aluminium pedals, underfloor brace, USB-C port, and an air purification system, plus a 390-litre boot space capacity.

Safety specs are quite complete for the 2023 Toyota Yaris Cross GR Sport, which consists of:

Eight airbags
Autonomous emergency braking
Adaptive Cruise Control
Emergency Steering Assist
High-beam Assist
Lane Keep Assist
Lane Departure Warning
Blind Spot Alert
Rear Cross Traffic Alert + more

 

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The Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS) recently posted about the latest Hyundai models to be assessed under the ASEAN NCAP program.

The new Hyundai SUV and MPV in question are the Hyundai Creta as well as the Hyundai Stargazer. Both models performed well in the tests and have obtained a five-star ASEAN NCAP rating for the Hyundai Creta and four stars for the Hyundai Stargazer.

Are they coming to Malaysia, though?

While these two models are manufactured for the Indonesian market thanks to the new Hyundai Motor Manufacturing (HMMI) mega plant near Cikarang, the Creta in particular has been spotted just a few months back on Malaysian soil.

Hyundai has invested heavily in the local assembly efforts in Indonesia and Malaysia’s own Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors reckons that our very own CKD program will increase in the near future. Since the Creta is already built as a right-hand-drive model in Indonesia, the CKD assembly kit might make sense price-wise to bring it into the Malaysian market and assemble at the Inokom plant in Kulim, Kedah.

What about the Stargazer?

As for the seven-seater Hyundai Stargazer MPV which was just launched in Indonesia back in July, there’s still no indicator of its arrival here in Malaysia. If it does, it’ll go up against other popular models within its segment such as the Mitsubishi Xpander, Honda BR-V, and Toyota Veloz to name a few.

It’s already available in Thailand and if the pricing is right (if Hyundai-Sime Darby Motor can somehow get the CKD kit from the Indonesian plant), it might just work, especially for those who prefer an MPV that looks a bit futuristic.

Power-wise, both the Hyundai Creta and Stargazer are equipped with the same Smarstream G 1.5-litre NA four-cylinder engine which produces 115PS and 144Nm of torque. Interesting prospects to say the least, especially if we can get them to be locally assembled.

 

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Hyundai Motor Company is closing off the year with the introduction of the 2024 Hyundai Kona SUV.

Not a lot of details have been shared just yet, but there will be four different variants which include EV, hybrid electric (HEV), internal combustion engine (ICE), and the sportier N Line variant.

2024 Hyundai Kona – EV first & adapted for other powertrains

Hyundai’s latest Kona is a bit out of the box considering that it was designed to be an EV first and later adapted to other powertrains like the hybrid electric (HEV) and internal combustion (ICE). We’re guessing that they want to retain its futuristic facade of an EV first but will be offered in other powertrains to cater to a wider range of customers around the globe.

Speaking of the facade, the new Kona’s exterior is certainly bold and dynamic, to say the least. To remind everyone that the model is still a worthy SUV adversary, the new Hyundai Kona is 150mm longer, 25mm wider, and carries a 60mm longer wheelbase compared to the previous generation model.

Futuristic design but still rugged & sporty

The futuristic part can be clearly seen via its new front section thanks to its stretched Seamless Horizon Lamp (pixelated for the EV model), smooth nose section for improved aerodynamics, and bold wheel arches that incorporate the front and rear lights.

And the theme is carried to the rear section of the car as well. With its parametric surfaces, the 2023 Hyundai Kona combines its diagonal side creases with satin chrome molding from the belt line to its spoiler which in turn creates a visually-stunning SUV. To tie everything together, the rear portion also features the Seamless Horizon Lamp and high-mounted stop lamps that are integrated within the spoiler’s chrome molding.

2024 Hyundai Kona – four variants to be made

To differentiate between the four different variants, the EV Kona is fitted with pixel graphics on the intake grille and rear bumper and pixel-inspired 19-inch wheels. The hybrid and ICE variants feature a more bold and rugged bumper with a skid plate, plus black wheel arch cladding.

As for the Kona N Line, a sportier exterior is further enhanced with the additions of optional black side mirrors and roof, wing-type spoiler, aggressive front and rear bumpers, 19-inch wheels with a design twist, twin mufflers, and silver skirts.

As for the interior, the main highlights include:

Larger interior ‘living space’ design
Floating horizontal C-Pad
12.3-inch dual wide displays with floating module
Curve-less Bench Seat for the second row + more

No other details like performance figures have been shared just yet. Hyundai has assured everyone that more information will be released in the coming months. For now, check out of B-Segment SUV battle video which includes the current-gen Hyundai Kona 1.6T N Line.

 

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Save up to RM2,100 on CARSOME Certified Cars!

As it stands, you’re getting quite a bit of added value and peace of mind when you choose a CARSOME Certified Car as your next ride of choice, but Carlist.my will sweeten the deal even more with up to RM2,100 in savings.

The best part is how simple it is to enjoy. All that’s needed to get started is to download the Carlist.my mobile app onto your smart device (available on the iOS App Store or Google Play Store) – that’s the first step.

From there, Step 2 is to book a test drive on any CARSOME Certified Car via the same app and take a photo during your test drive.

The third and final step is to post the photo on your public Facebook or Instagram account with the hashtag #SoEasyOnCarlist and feel free to let us know how your experience went between researching to test driving your car of choice.

You’re now eligible to receive an RM600 voucher for your next car – just like that! Even better, you’ll also be up for a further RM1,500 savings if you trade in your existing car, bringing the total value saved to RM2,100.

What are you waiting for? Download the Carlist.my app now and begin your journey into your next car with great savings to be had along the way.

Terms and conditons apply.

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Bridgestone Turanza T005A touring tyres: 6-months Honda HR-V owner review

What may have started as a bit of a left-field alternative has become one of the most prolific and popular products in its segment: we’re talking about the Honda HR-V, which came into the world at a time when nearly every automotive manufacturer had a dog in the fight at both the global and local levels.

The popularity of the Honda HR-V can be owed first to the strength of the Honda brand in our local market and second to the incredible practicality of this compact crossover SUV. The HR-V is a showcase of just how good Honda is at developing packaging solutions and providing a well-designed cabin with plenty of storage areas, legroom, and boot space.

The relative simplicity of the design, layout, and powertrain also helps to keep running costs relatively low, which is why the HR-V is used more than its intended purpose, where it has become more than just an urban vehicle, as owners in Malaysia seem to use it for every occasion, including touring.

Judging by owner usage, the Honda HR-V is regarded by many as a complete car, so all the HR-V actually needed outside of factory equipment was a set of quality tyres, which complement its excellent all-around usability.

So when engineer Sassindren Selvaraja won our CarTell x Bridgestone tyre giveaway contest six months ago, we were pretty excited to find out that he drove a Honda HR-V as we wanted to see how Bridgestone’s Turanza T005A would pair up with the ever-popular vehicle.

The Turanza T005A is Bridgestone’s touring tyre, designed to deliver greater comfort, superior quietness and assured safety for both short and long-distance journeys. Although most associate touring tyres with larger and premium sedans, it is actually built for many different vehicles. Considering what crossovers provide to many Malaysians these days, where they can do it all, it is also highly suitable for crossovers like the Honda HR-V.

As an engineer, Sassindren travels a lot around the country with his HR-V. When it is not utilised for work purposes, the HR-V is primarily commandeered by Sassindren’s father, who uses it as his run-around town vehicle.

Since the T005A was also designed with Bridgestone’s advanced technologies, enabling a safer, smoother and seamless drive to support individuals and their families to move, live and play, the tyres seem to be a perfect fit for Sassindren, his car and his family.

During the first three-month catch-up with Sassindren, after he installed the Bridgestone Turanza T005A on his Honda HR-V, he was pleased with how they had performed.

The tyres performed admirably in the first three months, where Sassindren commented that they provided him with great confidence when driving on dry or wet roads.

“Compared to my previous tyres, these Bridgestones provide me with great confidence when taking corners, where I feel like the car is sticking to the ground and provide me with no concerns. It made no difference to whether the roads were wet or dry, they just gave me confidence”, said Sassindren.

He also commented that its braking performance on wet roads is also good, providing a predictable outcome. Since Sassindren also shares the car with his father, he too has given the tyres some good feedback.

“My father rarely gives any feedback on tyres, but this time, he mentioned that he realised that the sound levels of the tyre are quieter compared to the previous set that we had on the car. He also mentioned the tyres are smooth and comfortable”, said the engineer.

After another few months, we again caught up with Sassindren to get feedback on how the tyres were performing after six months. Since this catch-up period happened to be during the rainy season, we were intrigued to find out how the tyres had performed, especially when we knew that Sassindren had been driving it a lot on wet roads.

Sassindren said there’s no difference between now and when It was installed, as the tyres are still quiet, supple and comfortable. He also said he’s glad that he has the Turanza T005A anchoring his vehicle to the ground in the rainy season, as he is confident of their abilities.

“Unlike harder tyres, which tend to slide over surfaces, the T005A’s softer compound provides essential grip for acceleration and cornering. This also applies on wet roads as the tyres have given me excellent grip and good traction, and there is no aquaplaning issue. I sound like a broken record, but it gives me great confidence in facing the current monsoon season. I feel safe driving in the rain.”

When we asked how the braking performance was in the wet after six months of usage, he said they were good, and that the level of grip has not decreased as they still provide good braking performance. We suppose due to the T005A’s rounded edges, which can prevent tyre deformation and ensure even contact with the road, we’re not overly surprised by his answer.

We’ve arranged for another catch-up with Sassindren around when he has used the tyres after a year, so we’ll know more about how the tyres have performed after being used for that period.

So far however, the Bridgestone Turanza T005A has been the perfect set of tyres for Sassindren and his HR-V as it has given his car a good set of rubbers for him to carry out his daily routine as well as other activities.

When we catch up with Sassindren next, we’ll be able to tell you about its wear life, but so far, it has given him a quiet and comfortable ride and confidence on wet and dry roads.

If you want to find out more about the Turanza T005A touring tyres, you can visit: https://www.bridgestonetyre.com.my/en/tyre/turanza-t005a

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Energy Commission wants all EV charge point operators to obtain license

The Energy Commission (EC) has ‘suggested’ that all charge point operators or CPOs apply for the Electric Vehicle Charging System license (EVCS).

Used for the purpose of installing EV charging systems, the license will be needed by all charge point operators in the future as well as those that are already operating to date. And they have to apply for the EVCS by 31 March 2023.

License to cover safety & technical aspects

The reason why EC is pushing for all charge point operators to apply for the EVCS boils down to standardising the services as well as safety. As more and more EV charging stations are popping up across the country, safety in terms of operations and structure should be imperative, especially when dealing with high levels of electricity.

According to Bernama, the license will grant the CPOs to conduct ‘electricity supply activities’ for commercial uses for 10 years based on location. Those who fail to do so by 31 March 2023 may face prosecutions under Section 37(5) of the Electricity Supply Act 1990 (Act 447) which states:
Any person who, in contravention of section 9, supplies electricity from an installation to or for the use of any person commits an offence and shall, on conviction, be liable to a fine not exceeding one hundred thousand ringgit, and to a further fine not exceeding one thousand ringgit for every day or part of a day during which the offence continues after conviction.

First EVCS license issued to Gentari

*Image credit: EV Connection

We’ve previously reported that the first publically-available 350kW DC fast charging station in Southeast Asia was opened for business earlier this month at X Park Sunway Serene, Petaling Jaya. It was the first charging station to receive the EVCS license, which was followed by the one launched at the Bangi Golf Resort.

More charging stations by several companies will be unveiled in the near future to accommodate the rising number of EVs and PHEVs here in Malaysia, which is why regulation on safety should be a point of concern since the cars that use these particular services aren’t exactly cheap. With that in mind, the license does not regulate things like charging rates. That will most likely come later in the future, with a helping hand from our beloved Malaysian government.

 

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