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Intro Synergy Sdn Bhd (ISSB), the exclusive distributor for Neta here in Malaysia, has officially launched its latest Lifetime Warranty Program.

For the first 500 new customers who purchase the Neta V EV from 1 April 2024 to 30 June 2024, the car will be bundled up together with a lifetime warranty that covers the battery, motor, as well as motor integrated unit that controls device operations and specific systems.

According to Dato’ SM Azli SM Nasimuddin Kamal, the Executive Chairman of ISSB, “We are unwaveringly proud of NETA’s production processes, assuring reliability and excellence in every product offered to the market. Through rigorous manufacturing protocols and intense validation and testing, we wholeheartedly endorse this revolutionary warranty.”

On top of the Lifetime Warranty Program, ISSB also introduced the Neta Loyalty Program where current Neta V owners can participate to enjoy ‘exclusive privileges and benefits’ with rewards up to RM24,300 as well as discounts on selected accessories, lucky draws, and more.

Head over to http://neta.my for more information.

 

Mazda Motor Europe has launched its first-ever crossover SUV for its market, the 2024 Mazda CX-80.

With pre-sales starting in May, the 2024 Mazda CX-80 is the fourth model from the brand’s Large Product Group following the footsteps of the Mazda CX-60, CX-90, and CX-70.

Offering ‘Mazda’s human-centric philosophy and excellent environmental and safety performance’, the CX-80 will be leading the European product line-up as the flagship model available in two different hybrid powertrains with an all-electric driving range of up to 60km.

The two electrified powertrains come in the form of a 2.5-litre inline-four petrol engine plug-in hybrid called e-Skyactiv PHEV and another 3.3-litre inline-six diesel unit paired with the M Hybrid Boost called the e-Skyactiv D.

Despite the variations in powertrains, the Mazda CX-80 is developed as a ‘Graceful Driving SUV’. The iconic Jinba-Ittai element of ‘car and driver as one’ has also been heavily inspired for this three-row SUV to offer a powerful driving experience paired with high safety features as well as meeting the latest regulations.

As for design concept, Mazda went for ‘Graceful Toughness’ for the latest CX-80 to provide an SUV that is elegant yet tough both inside and out. Future owners can expect a much bigger sense of space with the cabin with three different options for the second-row seats – captain seats with a centre console, captain seats without a centre console, and the good ol’ bench seats for three.

Mazda also stated that even with the third-row seats in use, there’s still enough cargo space at the back for things like a golf bag or a baby stroller and even more so when the third and second-row seats are folded.

Safety-wise is further elevated with the inclusion of Cruising & Traffic Support (CTS) with Unresponsive Driver Support – the first adoption for Mazda in the European market.

When CTS is active, the system will alert the driver if it detects the driver not paying attention to the road ahead while driving (things like closing one eye or looking away).

If the driver doesn’t remedy the situation when it comes to things like careless driving or sudden illness, the system will then assist in decelerating and stopping the vehicle to avoid any unwanted accidents.

Warisan Tan Chong Automotive (WCTA) has just launched the all-new GAC GS3 Emzoom priced from RM118,900 and available across two variants, a highly anticipated and long awaited second model and successor to the previous-generation GS3 that first arrived here in in the closing days of 2021.

2024 GAC GS3 Emzoom Exclusive – RM118,900
2024 GAC GS3 Emzoom Premium R – RM128,900

Clearly WTCA has taken their time with this release, ensuring that the vehicle was fully tested and adapted for Malaysian roads and conditions as well as sorting out CKD operations so that each GS3 Emzoom rolls out locally assembled from their facility in Segambut.

This B-segment SUV locks horns with some obvious rivals, chief of which is the Proton X50. However, aside from the longstanding class heavyweights such as the Honda HR-V, the GS3 Emzoom has to also contend with a very sharply priced Omoda 5 from fellow China-based automaker Chery.

Available in Ivory White, Starlight Silver, Salt Lake Blue, and Graphene Grey, the colour selection satisfy a decent spectrum of tastes even if the styling proves a little divisive. We can quite decide if this or the Omoda 5 wins in terms of attracting attention on the road, especially in their most eye catching colours and accents. Mind you, the R-style bodykit is exclusive to the Premium R.

The GS3 Emzoom showcases quite a sleek exterior design that’s leagues more contemporary than the outgoing GS3, but by no shortage of angular shapes and lines. Built on the GAC Motor’s GPMA platform, the GS3 Emzoom measures 4,410mm long and 1,850mm wide, with a 2,650mm wheelbase, marking increases over its predecessor.

On dimensions alone, the GS3 Emzoom is shaping out as the larger vehicle, boasting a 20mm longer wheelbase and 20mm advantage in overall width against the Omoda 5. In our very brief time spent inside the car at the launch event, however, this size difference is tough to notice.

However, against the X50, that extra size works out to 80mm more in overall length, 50mm wider, and a 50mm longer wheelbase.

Equipped with 18-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels in a satin black finish and wearing 225/55 tyres on the Premium R variant, mechanically similar to the Exclusive variant but distinguished by its front and rear bumper extension kit.

It’s anime-like aesthetic is reflected in that front grille, which GAC are calling Mecha Wing. Flaking it are a pair of ‘Laser Eye’ split-LED headlamps, and ‘Light Dart’ tail lamps. Adding a touch of elegance, the GS3 Emzoom includes flush-fitting exterior door handles, possibly making it the most affordable vehicle with this feature.

Under the hood, the GS3 Emzoom houses a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine generating 177 PS at 5,500 rpm and 270 Nm of torque from 1,400 rpm. Power is transmitted to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, with a claimed fuel consumption of 5.9-litres per 100 km, according to GAC.

Stepping inside, the cabin does feel high tech and fairly high quality relative to its asking price. While its ergonomics and upfront tech features are par for the course (dual driver’s and infotainment touchscreens, for example), the most distinguishing element here are the dual tone blue/black leatherette upholstery and trim. This cabin colour combo is uniform across all variants and body colour options, but only seems to match the Salt Lake Blue.

A 10.25-inch screen is perched at the centre with all the usual features. However, while Apple Carplay comes as standard, connectivity for Android users is relegated to Bluetooth or screen mirroring. There’s also a wireless phone charger, ambient interior lighting, and a panoramic sunroof, but only on the Premium R.

Active safety (ADAS) is equipped as standard, as it should be, and the suite includes Autonomous Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, and Adaptive Cruise Control. There’s also a 360-degree surround view camera. Only the Premium R gets High Beam Assist and something called Fusion Automatic Parking Assist (FAPA).

For early customers of the GS3 Emzoom (first 2,000), WTCA are offering a Special Launch Package that includes a 3x complimentary scheduled servicing inclusive of labour, parts, and lubricants.

Additionally, they will also receive an extended warranty of 7-years (or 180,000km) on the engine and powertrain over the standard 5-years (or 150,000km) warranty. Early birds will also receive a limited GAC Smart Watch Key.

 

GWM has unveiled updates to the Haval H6 in China, but there’s still uncertainty surrounding if this updated version will be gracing Malaysian launch and how long might we have to wait for H6 in this latest and greatest guise.

Though GWM Malaysia has outright confirmed that the H6 will finally be making its market entrance here in Q2 2024, we are most likely to see the pre-facelift that has been rolling around Thailand for some time. Those who remember the H6’s appearance at a certain motor show around this time in 2023 should know what to expect.

The refreshed Haval H6 for China showcases a redesigned front with vertical LED daytime running lights that puts in mind of the Hyundai Palisade. Meanwhile, the rear now features separate tail light clusters instead of the full-width LED light bar that featured prominently before.

Unfortunately, the SUV’s interior details remain undisclosed officially. Though we don’t expect many alterations over the pre-facelift’s cabin and instruments, leaked images suggest a larger infotainment touchscreen are among the changes.

While the refreshed model of the car maintains the engines from the 2023 Haval H6, they’ve undergone enhancements. The 1.5L turbo unit now delivers 176PS of power while the 2.0T version has similarly seen a power bump from 210PS to 230PS. Both engines are paired to a 7-speed wet-type dual-clutch transmission.

No details yet on the enhancements made to the hybrid and PHEV variants in terms of their powertrain, though that announcement, as well as more thorough details about its interior, should be forthcoming shortly.

It’s anticipated that the current Haval H6 will be succeeded by the new Haval Xiaolong Max, a global SUV offering plug-in hybrid power, either late in 2024 or early in 2025. Still, it’s possible that GWM Malaysia would launch the current-generation H6 in this facelift guise first.

Though the electrified versions of the current H6 boasts some impressive specifications such as lithium ion batteries large enough to rival BEVs (up to 45kWh in the case of the PHEV), the H6 is very like to be introduced in hybrid (non-plug-in) form.

Working in similar fashion to Honda’s i-MMD system, the H6 Hybrid is equipped with a 1.5-litre turbocharged inline-four petrol engine generating 150PS and 230 Nm of torque, assisted by a rather powerful 177PS and 300 Nm electric motor running in a series-parallel configuration, resulting in a combined system output of 243 PS and 530 Nm of torque.

In terms of raw performance, it shouldn’t have much trouble against its closest segment rivals such as the Proton X70, Honda CR-V, and Mazda CX-5.

The aforementioned Haval Xiaolong Max that we reckon is set to replace the H6 more heavily emphasises plug-in hybrid power and was first showcased at the 2023 Shanghai Motor Show.

It boasts advanced features such as a “smart system” for adaptive driving modes, Intelligent Torque Vectoring Control, and energy recuperation capabilities. Interior amenities include digital displays, advanced infotainment, and a suite of driver assistance features.

MG Motor Malaysia welcomes 10 new dealerships into the MG family which will operate across Peninsular Malaysia.

For those who are interested in viewing and test-driving all the latest MG models that were recently launched here in the country, below is the list of all the new showrooms located in the Klang Valley, Negeri Sembilan, Melaka, and Johor.

1)    Mega Galeri Motor Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Petaling Jaya)
Wisma GAM, Ground Floor, Lot 8241,
Jalan 225, Seksyen 51A, 46100 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Operating hours: Mon-Sat (9am-5.30pm), Sun & PH (10am-4.30pm)

2)    Mega Galeri Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Glenmarie)
15    Jalan Pelukis U1/46, Temasya Industrial Park,
40150 Shah Alam, Selangor
Operating hours: Mon-Sat (9am-5.30pm), Sun & PH (10am-4.30pm)

3)    Mega Appeal Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Cheras)
82 Jalan Midah 1, Taman Midah, 56000 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur
Operating hours: Mon-Sat (8.30am-6pm), Sun & PH (9am-6pm)

4)    Sing Huat Premium Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Chan Sow Lin)
A-1-2, Level 1, Block A, Southgate Commercial Centre 2,
Jalan Dua, Off Jalan Chan Sow Lin, 55200 Kuala Lumpur
Operating hours: Mon-Sat (9am-7pm), Sun & PH (10am-6pm)

5)    MN Automart Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Setia Alam)
3 Jalan Astaka 4/KU2, Bandar Bukit Raja, 41050 Klang, Selangor
Operating hours: Mon-Sat (9am-5pm), Sun & PH (9am-5pm)

6)    SV Auto Haus Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Seremban)
125, Persiaran S2B1, Seremban 2, 70300 Seremban, Negeri Sembilan
Operating hours: Mon-Sat (9am-6pm), Sun & PH (10am-5pm)

7)    Seong Hoe Motors Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Melaka)
C-5137 Jalan Penghulu Abas, Bukit Baru, 75150 Melaka
Operating hours: Mon-Sat (8.30am-5.30pm), Sun & PH (10am-3pm)

8)    Ang Trading & Motor Credit Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Muar)
33-35 Jalan Sulaiman, 84000 Muar, Johor
Operating hours: Mon-Sat (9am-5.30pm), Sun & PH (10am-4pm)

9)    Ang Trading & Motor Credit Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Plentong)
2 Jalan Mutiara 6, Taman Perindustrian Plentong, 81750 Masai, Johor
Operating hours: Mon-Sat (9am-5.30pm), Sun & PH (10am-4pm)

10)    SV Auto Haus Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Puchong) – operational, and showroom completion in May’24
GF-4, Tower 2 @ PFCC, Jalan Puteri 1/2,
Bandar Puteri Puchong, 47100 Puchong, Selangor
Operating hours: Mon-Sat (9am-6pm), Sun & PH (10am-5pm)

According to Steven Du, Managing Director of SAIC Motor Malaysia Sdn Bhd, “We are delighted to welcome these strong dealers to the MG family. Their passion and commitment align perfectly with our mission to provide unparalleled MG experiences to valued customers nationwide. Adding to the 10 dealerships, we will be expanding to Northern and East Coast regions soon, and East Malaysia at the end of the year.”

To recap, MG Motor Malaysia entered the local market with the MG ZS EV priced at RM125,999. For this asking price, you’re getting a fully-electric B-segment SUV with 176PS and 280Nm paired with a maximum range of 320km (WLTP).

The 2024 MG4, however, comes in four different variants – Standard, Lux, Lux Extended Range, and our favourite of the bunch, the XPOWER.

Spec-wise, the 2024 MG4 EV hatchback ranges between 170PS-435PS, 250Nm-600Nm, and a driving range between 350km-520km.

As for pricing, it’s certainly an interesting prospect for the 2024 MG4 with prices from RM103,999 to RM158,999.

Sime Darby Motors are celebrating the festive season with their Riang Raya event happening from the 19th to 21st April 2024 at Sime Darby Motors City Ara Damansara, offering incredible deals on so many amazing cars.

The sprawling venue offers plenty of opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the most desirable and latest cars from BMW, MINI, Motorrad, BYD, Ford, Hyundai, Jaguar, Land Rover, Volvo and high quality pre-owned models from Sime Darby Auto Selection this weekend.

Click here to register your interest!

Sime Darby Auto Connexion – Ford

In addition to high trade-in values for purchase of the Ranger Raptor, WildTrak, and XLT Plus variants, the purveyor of hardy yet sophisticated pickup trucks, Ford, will be offering an enticing 2-years free maintenance package as well as a free 70mai A800S 4K dashcam.

Sime Darby Swedish Auto – Volvo

Whether you’re on the hunt for a plush SUV or an advanced electric vehicle, enjoy cash rebates of up to RM15,000 on select Volvo models from Swedish Auto, letting you experience the best of this luxury marque for less.

They are also offering a complimentary VSA5+ (Volvo Service Agreement 5 Plus) package to make your ownership experience as worry-free as possible. Buyers will also receive a Volvo-branded dashcam that’s exclusive to the event.

BYD

Arguably one of the most high profile newcomer automakers to the Malaysian market, BYDs range of fully electric vehicles has something for everyone. Owning one will also be made easier with 0% interest rates offered on certain models, a cash rebate of up to RM20,000, and a free wallbox to make home charging a breeze.

Purchase a BYD ATTO 3 between April 1st and April 30th 2024, and you could stand a chance to win an all-expenses-paid trip to UEFA EURO 2024! Plus, we’re giving away 9 final tickets and 20 semi-final tickets. Take advantage of our attractive trade-in program to easily convert to an EV!

Sweetening the deal, BYD are also offering a complimentary service package and complimentary charging credit to start you off on your EV journey on the best foot.

Hyundai

Hyundai offers a diverse range of vehicles, and their Riang Raya promotions reflect this. For their EV models such as the Kona Electric, IONIQ 5, and IONIQ 6, they will be offering a ParkEasy Plus bundle that includes RM720 worth of ParkEasy credits, a 15% discount on the use of Shell Recharge High Performance chargers and 10% cashback on Shell Recharge Destination Sites for 1 year.

Meanwhile, for the rest of the Hyundai model line-up, new buyers will receive RM500 in Touch ’n Go eWallet credit.

Jaguar & Land Rover

Step closer to owning a vehicle from one of these prestigious British brands with cash rebates up to RM100,000 on selected models, as well as 5-years warranty and complimentary servicing with 3-years of roadside assistance. Additionally, buyers of selected models of the Jaguar I-PACE, Range Rover Evoque, and Range Rover Velar will also be eligible to receive a complimentary insurance voucher worth RM30,000.

There’s also a wide selection of high quality approved pre-owned Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles to choose from, each with a minimum 2-year warranty for unbeatable peace of mind.

Test drive the Full EV Jaguar I-PACE, capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds, and receive JLR Mystery Merchandises as a reward.

Call 03-92123103 to register for this exclusive experience at Jaguar Land Rover Ara Damansara.

Auto Bavaria – BMW

Of course, we cannot forget BMW. As one of the most recognised automotive brands over the past many decades, their sprawling portfolio ranges from the luxurious to the sporty. For Riang Raya, enjoy attractive rebates exclusive to the event, and low interest rate financing. Should you be eyeing one of their many fully electric models, you’ll receive a complimentary BMW wallbox and an 8-year (or 160,000km) warranty coverage for the High Voltage Battery, for selected models.

Auto Bavaria – MINI

Similarly, MINI models are also subject to the same attractive rebates for Riang Raya alongside the low interest rates, be it the MINI 5-door, Clubman, Countryman, or Convertible, that catches your fancy. In addition to tempting corporate discounts, new buyers will also receive complimentary access to the MINI Service + Repair Inclusive Programme (MSRI).

Auto Bavaria – BMW Motorrad

Getting a two-wheeler from Auto Bavaria entitles you to exciting perks as well. Test ride opportunities are offered along with a 3-year warranty and hassle-free financing packages for their extensive range of BMW Motorrad motorcycles.

Sime Darby Auto Selection

Even pre-owned treasures merit appreciation, and Sime Darby Auto Selection is dedicated to offering exceptional limited-time offers, extended warranties, and complimentary service packages for their diverse range of top-notch vehicles.

Benefit from generous trade-in values for any car within the Auto Selection lineup, each meticulously inspected and refurbished to the highest standards. Rest assured, all vehicles come with guarantees of no flood or fire damage nor major accidents, along with accurate mileage records.

With a plethora of amazing deals, let the festive spirit fuel the journey to your next car with Riang Raya at Sime Darby Motors City in Ara Damansara this weekend!

Click here to register your interest.

Terms and conditions apply. Offers may vary across brands and vehicle models.

Continental Tyres has launched its latest MaxContact MC7 tyres specifically tailored to cater to Asia Pacific (APAC) drivers.

Regarded as a sporty high-performance tyre, the Continental MaxContact MC7 is said to offer enhanced driving performance for daily use paired with maximum control as well as dynamic handling.

According to Tolga Mutlu, Head of Product Management, Continental Replacement Tyres APAC, “Developed and tested by a team of 25 engineers and material experts through more than 8,000 hours in R&D, we engineered a high-performance sporty tyre that meets the unique needs of the drivers who seek the thrill from their everyday driving. the new MaxContact MC7 offers just that.”

One of the key highlights of the Continental MaxContact MC7 is the inclusion of Cornering Macroblocks, a tyre tech that offers a wider footprint to maximise the tyre’s contact area with the road as well as a more optimised distribution of pressure.

This is further enhanced with ReFlex Compound to create a higher resistance to tyre deformation and therefore enhance two key factors of the MaxContact MC7 – better steering response and accuracy.

Other highlights include:

New Silica tech for faster warm-up and shorter braking distances (dry and wet)
3D Laser-cut Sipes for improved grip and braking (dry and wet)
Upgraded 2-in-1 Noise Breaker 3.0 for a quieter drive

For those who are interested, the new Continental MaxContact MC7 tyre will be available for purchase in markets all over APAC starting Q1 of this year. Sizes are available from 16 inches up to 21 inches.

 

“MILANO NAME IS NOT OKAY? JUNIOR THEN!” were the words that titled Alfa Romeo’s latest press release following the Italian government’s assertion that the name of its newest model, the Milano, was in violation of the law due to its production in Poland.

Adolfo Urso, Italy’s minister of industry, made the claim that Stellantis’ use of the famous city’s name makes the outsourcing of the car’s production beyond its borders illegal.

“This law stipulates that you cannot give indications that mislead consumers. So a car called Milano must be produced in Italy. Otherwise, it gives a misleading indication which is not allowed under Italian law,” said Urso in remarks reported by Reuters.

It was a quick reaction from Stellantis and Alfa Romeo, leading us to suspect that they had anticipated this, but we won’t argue whether or not Junior is a better name. It definitely isn’t as cool, though.

What is the Alfa Romeo Milano Junior?

Alfa Romeo has pulled the covers off the Milano (as of late last week), its latest crossover model and the third in its lineup, aiming to fill the void left by the discontinued MiTo and Giulietta hatchbacks. Importantly, it’s the Italian brand’s first fully electric vehicle.

In terms of its positioning, however, what is possibly Alfa’s most disruptive (or it is divisive?) new model in quite some time isn’t slotted at the top of the range. Rather, it sits at the lower rung of their SUV line-up, below the Stelvio and Tonale.

The Milano’s Junior’s design, although somewhat expected due to prior leaks, departs from Alfa Romeo’s recent aesthetic. Featuring a wider and shorter shield grille compared to previous models, the Milano Junior showcases classic Alfa Romeo script on petrol variants and a shadowy rendition of the brand’s logo on electric models.

Drawing inspiration from the Giulia TZ (apparently), its tail lights and rear design exude a sporty vibe, complemented by a black roof, distinctive wheels, and a bold front end reminiscent of Alfa Romeo’s heritage. Overall, as a design langauge, it’s top notch.

This vehicle marks the brand’s shift towards electric propulsion and is possibly the final new Alfa model be offered with a combustion engine of any description, with plans previously announced  to exclusively offer electric vehicles by 2027. Unsurprisingly, longtime fans of Alfa Romeo aren’t too enthusiastic about this.

In Europe, the Milano Junior offers three drivetrains: the hybrid Ibrida, the electric Elettrica, and the performance-oriented Elettrica Veloce. The Ibrida combines a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 48V lithium-ion battery and electric motor for a total output of 134PS, with an option for all-wheel drive in the future.

On the other hand, the Elettrica kicks off the Milano Junior in pure electric flavour with a 156PS electric motor for a range of 410km under WLTP standards. Meanwhile, the Elettrica Veloce ups the ante with a more powerful 240PS electric motor, unique suspension, and more aggressive design elements that echoing the Abarth 600e. Both electric variants share a 54kWh battery and can be charged via AC (11kW max) and DC (100kW max) sources.

There will be another ‘hybrid’ variant added into the mix but next to zero details have been confirmed beyond this.

While a local launch is far from likely, parent company Stellantis’ full entry into Malaysia recently means nothing can be ruled out. After all, they have already outlined an ambitious plan beyond merely the reinvigoration of the Peugeot marque.

Apart from Europe, the Milano Junior is scheduled for release in Australia in 2025 alongside the Jeep Avenger and Peugeot e-2008, its e-CMP2 platform siblings, possibly signalling a crucial stepping stone as Alfa Romeo creeps further into the Asia Pacific region.

Differentiating itself within its segment, the Milano Junior boasts the “most direct steering,” promising to honour the dynamic driving experience that Alfas were synonymous with. Despite being the smallest model in their stable, it surpasses the dimensions of the previous MiTo.

Inside, the Milano Junior adopts Alfa Romeo’s signature dual-cowl instrument binnacle and offers a touchscreen infotainment system angled towards the driver. Sporty seats, faux suede trim, and ample storage space complete the interior. While pricing remains undisclosed, Alfa Romeo’s CEO suggests a broad price range for the Milano Junior, affirming the brand’s versatility in catering to various markets.

The order books for the Alfa Romeo Milano Junior are due to open in Q3 2024 with units rolling off the Stellantis plant in Tychy, Poland, the source of all this naming controversy.

 

The Chery Tiggo 8 Pro boasts a price tag sets it apart from competitors in its segment for the sheer value packed into that RM159,800 figure. But does it truly embody the essence of a premium SUV? Let’s delve into some of its features and find out.

Firstly, Chery has crafted a sleek and cohesive design for the Tiggo 8 Pro, with elegant touches that distinguish it on the road. Even at a standstill, from its Galaxy Grille to the sporty 19-inch wheels and animated rear light bar, there are many elements contributes to its sophisticated aesthetic.

Practical features like the hands-free powered tailgate and tonneau cover add convenience to the ample boot space of 193-litres with all seats upright, but can expand to 1,172-litres with the 3rd-row folded down.

Upon stepping inside the Tiggo 8 Pro, you’ll find a cabin designed for comfort, style and functionality. Thoughtful details abound, from ergonomic physical shortcut buttons and ambient lighting, to plush trim and upholstery materials, a panoramic sunroof as well as the heated and ventilated front seats.

 
Its tech feature set adds to the overall ease of usability too with features like the 540-degree 3D parking camera, wireless charging, and of course, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity that works in tandem with a 9-speaker Sony sound system.

Even a quick spin in the Tiggo 8 Pro shows off its ample 256hp and 390 Nm of torque for effortless cruising and overtaking all while maintaining a refined cabin experience and composed handling.

Its ADAS suite is also comprehensive, featuring the latest safety functionality – Autonomous Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and more –  to keep its occupants safe whether in the city or on a longer highway trip.

Speaking of which, there are also certain features on the Tiggo 8 Pro that should better prepare Malaysians for a festive season hometown journey. Setting off with the proper tyre pressures is important not only for safety but also for fuel economy, and the inclusion of an electronic Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) makes that a breeze on the Chery.

When up to highway speed, however, the Tiggo 8 Pro’s Adaptive Cruise Control and Integrated Cruise Assist as well as Traffic Jam Assist can help take some of the burden off the driver.

The Chery Tiggo 8 Pro may not carry the hefty price tag of luxury SUVs, but it delivers a comparable level of comfort, convenience, and performance. Its extensive feature set and accessible price point make it a compelling option for buyers seeking the upmarket appointments and comforts a premium 3-row SUV without breaking the bank. In essence, the Tiggo 8 Pro embodies accessible luxury, very much making it a worthy contender in its class.

 

The KIA EV9 is now open for booking as Dinamikjaya Motors, the Korean marque’s official Malaysian distributor, has announced. This piece of news follows the EV9’s double wins at the 2024 World Car Awards ceremony.

Held following the conclusion of the New York Motor Show on April 7th, the World Car Awards winners were selected by selected by a jury of 100 automotive journalists from 29 countries. There, the EV9 bagged the coveted World Car of the Year and World Electric Vehicle titles.

With the EV9 soon to be added as another fully electric feather in Bermaz’s cap, it will be joining previous award winner, the EV6, as well as the Niro EV in the local line-up. We’ll have more on this as its official launch date approaches, so stay tuned.

So far, not much is known about the EV9 in its Malaysian specification. Like the EV6 currently sold here and with which it shares the E-GMP platform, the EV9 could emerge as a single variant (GT-Line) model just as it is offered in Singapore.

There, it’s equipped with a ‘Long Range’ 99.8kWh lithium ion polymer battery and dual electric motors for all-wheel drive and a combined output of 385PS and 700Nm. That’s enough to shoot the 2.6 tonne EV9 to 100km/h in 5.3 seconds while range is estimated at 647km (NEDC).

We’re a little murky on pricing. Of course, given its position at the top of KIA’s fully electric pecking order, the EV9 will naturally land north of the EV6’s price tag of RM319k. In Thailand, the EV9 in GT-Line trim is sold for 3,899,000 Baht (around RM505k).

Identical to the locally sold EV6, however, the EV9 should be equally offered with a 5-years (or 150,000km) vehicle warranty and an 8-years (or 160,000km) battery warranty.

In terms of the competitive landscape in Malaysia, the EV9 shouldn’t have too many rivals to worry about as the majority of automakers are focused on smaller electric models.

The only large SUVs that fall into this ‘zero emissions’ category would be the BMW iX and Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV, though both of those only offer 2-rows of seating as opposed to the EV9’s 3-rows.