Categories
Auto news

2024 MG Cyberster coming to Malaysia, Gen Z’s first super sports car under RM500k?

Fans of EVs, convertibles, and sports cars alike should have plenty to cheer about as it looks like the MG Cyberster is set to be receiving a Malaysian launch this year – within the next 6 months, most likely.

This was confirmed during the press conference following the launch of the MG4 and MG ZS EV yesterday where SAIC Motor Malaysia Managing Director, Steven Du, said the Cyberster’s wider global rollout is very much contingent on the concluded development of a right-hand drive version, which he expects by Q3 2024.

Concurrent with that statement, the car had also been gracing the eyes of attendees at the ongoing Bangkok International Motor Show, in right-hand drive guise too. Word on the ground there suggests a price of THB 2,499,000 (around RM324k) when it does launch by the end of the year.

With that in mind, it should be the perfect halo model to sit alongside the aforementioned ZS EV and MG4, assuming SAIC doesn’t have yet more models to surprise us with by then.

What is the MG Cyberster?

The Cyberster is a convertible sports car, but like many new MG models, this one eschews combustion power in favour of a BEV powertrain. It draws from the brand’s history as one of the champions of the classic ‘British roadster’ formula of a compact, lightweight, and open top two-seaters such as the MGA and MGB.

Here in 2024, the launch of any two-door enthusiast/fun-focused new car of any description is a rare encounter, and even seemingly nonexistent in an EV space that’s dominated by crossovers, so it’s refreshing to see MG blazing their own trail by looking to its past.

Sure, the Cyberster’s long bonnet and ground-hugging body are classic cues for a convertible sports car while its signature red colour does evoke the people’s favourite Mazda MX-5, often seen as the spiritual successor to those British roadsters of old. That said, it’s powered scissor doors and 1,850kg kerb weight are elements that run counter to its British roadster roots.

Interestingly enough, that estimated Thai price tag, if accurate, would see the Cyberster undercutting its closest market rival, the MX-5 RF 2.0 with a 6-speed manual, by around 14 percent due to lower import and excise duties levied by the government there in favour of electric vehicles.

With dimensions of 4,535 mm in length, 1,913 mm in width, and 1,329mm in height, along with a wheelbase of 2,690 mm, the MG is also decidedly larger than the Mazda.

While the Cyberster offers three variants and output options in China, Thailand is exclusively offering the top-tier version that features a dual-motor all-wheel-drive configuration with 544 PS and 725 Nm of torque, allowing acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds and reaching a top speed of 200 km/h.

Powering the electric motors is a 77 kWh battery, delivering a NEDC-rated range of 503 km on a single charge. It’s quoted at 11 hours while on MG home charger for AC charging while DC fast charging achieves a 10 to 80% charge in about 26 minutes at a maximum rate of 140 kW.

Externally, the Cyberster is equipped with features such as a soft-top canvas roof, automatic LED headlights, LED DRLs and tail lights, and 20-inch alloys fitted with 245/40 front and 275/35 rear profile tyres.

Inside, it boasts a triple-screen digital display panel, comprised of a 10.25-inch screen flanked by two seven-inch screens, along with Y-shape sports seats upholstered in Nappa leather and Alcantara.

Other interior highlights include six-way powered driver/passenger seats, soft-touch elements, 64-color ambient lighting, a Bose sound system, dual-zone air-conditioning, a PM 2.5 air filter system, electronic parking brake, and connectivity options like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Regarding safety, the Cyberster is equipped with various electronic assistance features including traction, stability, and braking systems, along with a 3D around view camera system and a suite of driver assistance technologies.

These include lane keeping assist, lane departure warning, lane change assist, forward collision warning, AEB braking, adaptive cruise control with low-speed automatic cruise control, blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, and braking intervention.

Gen Z’s first electric sports car?

Young car enthusiasts (Gen Z?) might be more inclined to toward BEVs than those of us who grew up around combustion engines, but they haven’t had much to point to as an aspirational sports car that’s at least somewhat attainable.

Of course, there is also the second generation Tesla Roadster, but delay after delay has our excitement dampened since it was first announced all the way back in 2017.

There are outliers at the very high end such as the Rimac Nevera and a few cars coming down the pipe to fully explore the performance potential of EVs, but the majority of fast zero emissions cars are merely ‘performance’ variants of existing models of four-door sedans or SUVs.

The Cyberster bucks that trend and introduces us to a familiar two-seat roadster that’s designed from the ground up to be a sports car, impracticalities and all. We just have to get used its corny name.

Categories
Auto news

2024 Kia EV9 is coming to Malaysia soon?

Kia’s first official entry into the Thailand market started earlier this month with the launch of the 2024 Kia EV9.

The brand’s three-row SUV also made an appearance at the 2024 Bangkok Motor Show (BIMS) with plans to penetrate the market with its electric vehicle offerings, up to 50% of its total sales projected.

To recap, the 2024 Kia EV9 is available in two different variants – Earth Long Range and the range-topping GT-Line AWD. Fully imported from South Korea, the EV9 is priced between 3.5 million Baht to 3.9 million Baht, which is roughly around RM455k to RM506k.

Quite a hefty asking price, but some say that you’ll get what you pay for with the Kia EV9. For starters, the base Earth Long Range comes with a single rear electric motor that produces 203PS and 350Nm of torque.

This allows it to hit 0-100km/h in 9.4 seconds before arriving to its limited top speed of 185km/h.

As for the GT-Line AWD, two electric motors churn out a total of 384PS and 700Nm of torque making its 0-100km/h run in just 5.3 seconds and a higher top speed of 200km/h.

Despite the difference in power output, both Kia EV9 variants are fitted with the same 99.8kWh battery pack that can travel up to 680km for the Earth Long Range and 647km for the GT-Line AWD (NEDC ratings).

The Kia EV9 supports up to 350kW of DC charging and when it’s connected to one, 10-80% SoC can be done in just 24 minutes. As for AC charging, the same state of charge can be completed in less than 10 hours.

Both variants come with the 2-2-2 seating configuration for maximum interior space and comfort. The second-row seats can swivel manually in the base EV9, whereas the GT-Line AWD gets electric adjustments with the additions of heating, ventilation, and massage functions.

Other notable specs include:

Digital Pattern Lighting Grille
‘Star Map’ daytime running lights
12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
12.3-inch centre infotainment display
5.3-inch climate control screen (in between the two bigger screens)
20-inch alloy wheels (21 inches for GT-Line AWD variant)
Eight speakers (14-speaker Meridian sound system for GT-Line AWD)
Seven airbags & full ADAS safety suite + more

As for the Malaysian market, expect to see the arrival of the 2024 Kia EV9 on our shores soon to boost the brand’s EV numbers alongside the Kia EV6 as well as the Kia Niro EV.

No official word from Dinamikjaya Motors Sdn Bhd, the official distributor of Kia in Malaysia, yet, but we will definitely hear more about the Kia EV9 in the second quarter of 2024.

Stay tuned for more updates.

 

Categories
Auto news

2024 XPeng G6 launched in Thailand, coming to Malaysia in Q3?

XPeng Thailand has announced that the 2024 XPeng G6 EV SUV is now open for booking in their local market.

Officially unveiled at the 2024 Bangkok International Motor Show (BIMS), the G6 is the brand’s first-ever right-hand-drive production model that’ll make its way into other ASEAN countries, including Malaysia.

Earlier this month, it was announced that Bermaz Auto Bhd will be the official distributor for the XPeng brand here in Malaysia. While there’s no specific timeline regarding the arrival of the XPeng G6 into Malaysia, we can expect it somewhere within Q3 of 2024.

To put things into perspective, the XPeng G6 has somewhat similar dimensions to the Tesla Model Y with a slightly taller height. Its overall dimensions stand at 4,753mm long, 1,920mm wide, and 1,650mm tall thanks to the brand’s SEPA 2.0 platform.

This 800V architecture also means that the XPeng G6 can support up to 280kW of DC fast charging, which means that 10-80% SoC can be completed in just 20 minutes.

There are two variants up for booking in Thailand for the G6 – Standard Range and Long Range. As you can already guess, the Standard Range comes with a smaller 66kWh battery pack that offers up to 580km of range (CLTC).

The Long Range gets a slightly bigger 87.5kWh unit which allows it to travel up to 755km (CLTC) per full charge. Both variants are fitted with the same rear single electric motor setup that produces 296PS and 440Nm of torque.

0-100km/h can be completed in 6.6 seconds for the Standard Range and 5.9 seconds for the Long Range despite having similar power outputs as well as the 202km/h limited top speed.

Last but not least, the pricing. There’s no official figure as of yet but some reports have indicated that the 2024 XPeng G6 EV SUV will be between 1.5-1.8 million Baht, which is roughly around RM195k to RM234k.

How cheaper it’ll be once the G6 enters Malaysia, we will only know for sure in the coming months. Stay tuned for more updates.

Categories
Auto news

2024 MG ZS EV launched in Malaysia – SAIC’s debut B-segment SUV for RM125,999

Meet the newest fully electric B-segment SUV here to tempt Malaysian buyers, the MG ZS EV, which is now available in a single variant priced at RM125,999.

It’s been a whirlwind so far as SAIC Motor Malaysia has very swiftly gone from a public preview to a full market debut of their range of cars, starting with the formerly British brand MG and the ZS EV. Talks of MG’s return to Malaysia have circulated since 2013, finally materialising now.

To give you some context about its size, this MG is slightly shorter (by 62 mm) but wider (by 19 mm) compared to the Honda HR-V, measuring 4,323 mm in length and 1,809 mm in width with a wheelbase of 2,585 mm. The ZS boasts a boot volume of 448 litres, expandable to 1,187 litres with the rear seats folded in a 60:40 configuration.

The ZS EV, although not a new model, has received a 2022 facelift that features a grille-less front end and a repositioned charging port, now located on the right side beneath the MG badge. Notable exterior enhancements include a larger trapezoidal centre air intake, split into two sections by a new front spoiler design, and slim corner air inlets.

Additionally, new projector LED headlights with arrow-shaped daytime running lights contribute to its modern aesthetic. At the rear, the ZS mirrors the front’s lamp design and incorporates a revised bumper with increased body colour usage, along with newly designed 17-inch turbine-style alloy wheels.

On the EV-spec front, 2022 facelift also brings an upgraded 51.1 kWh LFP battery (previously 44.5 kWh), providing a WLTP-rated range of 320 km. Paired with a front motor delivering 176 PS and 280 Nm of torque, the ZS EV accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in a respectable 8.0 seconds. The vehicle offers three driving modes – Eco, Normal, and Sport – along with three levels of energy regeneration in MG’s KERS system.

Safety features include the MG Pilot ADAS suite, comprising autonomous emergency braking (AEB), adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, lane departure warning, blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert, and high-beam assist. Additionally, the ZS EV is equipped with a 360-degree camera system and ISOFIX child seat mounts.

Exterior colour options include Dynamic Red, Monument Silver, Black Pearl, and Arctic White. Notably, SAIC Motor Malaysia displayed a white variant despite other more dynamic colour options available. Warranty coverage spans seven years or 150,000 km for the vehicle and eight years or 180,000 km for the EV battery.

Priced at RM126k, the MG ZS EV offers a competitive edge by undercutting rivals such as the BYD Atto 3 Standard Range (RM149k) and the Chery Omoda E5 (RM146k), albeit with a shorter range.

While seasoned enthusiasts may recall this English brand from yesteryears, others might reminisce about the fleeting presence of MG Rover cars in Malaysia. Under their stewardship, SAIC is eager to leverage MG’s century-old legacy, and has been successful in winning over the buying public in many markets including Thailand where its presence has been long-established.

Though steeped in history, MG’s lineup reflects modernity, especially in Malaysia, where it will exclusively offer electric vehicles, unlike its presence in other ASEAN markets. The MG ZS, for example, is typically available in both internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric variants elsewhere. However, given SAIC Motor Malaysia’s EV-only strategy for Malaysia, at least for now, its debut models the ZS offered exclusively in its fully electric guise.

SAIC Motor Malaysia are offering the MG ZS EV with a 7-year or 150,000km warranty (whichever comes first) as well as an 8-year or 180,000km (whichever comes first) battery warranty. Additionally, they are also providing MG customers with a 1-to-1 battery exchange program should the battery’s state-of-health dips below 70% during the battery warranty coverage period.

Categories
Auto news

2024 MG4 launched in Malaysia starting from RM104k, XPOWER mega hatch at RM160k

With the launch of the MG4, SAIC Motor Malaysia has wasted no time in launching their full range of one of their most successful new EVs, with a total of four variants that start from just RM103,999.

Perhaps most excitingly, at the other end of MG4 spectrum we have the XPOWER, an all-wheel driven dual-motor electric mega-hatch that boasts power, torque and acceleration to rival the BYD Seal Performance, but priced much lower at RM158,999.

MG4 Standard – RM103,999
MG4 Lux – RM128,999
MG4 Lux Extended Range – RM148,999
MG4 XPOWER – RM158,999

The MG4 presents a distinct offering by being just by virtue of being a hatchback in a market saturated with similarly sized EVs calling themselves crossovers, boasting distinctive design elements that set it apart from its counterparts.

This EV’s distinctive appearance can also be attributed to its relatively low roofline, a feature uncommon in electric cars. This design choice, enabled by a particularly slim battery, contributes to a more dynamic aesthetic. MG claims a balanced weight distribution of 50:50, coupled with rear-wheel drive, promising an engaging driving experience reminiscent of BMW vehicles.

With sharp, angular features and a grille-less front, the MG4 establishes its unique aesthetic, departing from the conventional styling cues of the MG lineup. The rear of the MG4 is equally attention-grabbing, featuring a rising beltline leading to full-width wraparound rear lights and a prominent rear spoiler, creating a visually striking profile. All variants ride on 18-inch two-tone alloy wheels, though the XPOWER receives a sportier set as well as considerably larger brakes.

Inside, the MG4 boasts a clean and minimalist dashboard design, highlighted by a full-width vent strip and a squared-off steering wheel. A notable feature is the 10.25-inch landscape touchscreen display, complemented by physical buttons for added convenience. Connectivity options include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless integration with smartphones.

The MG4 lineup comprises three variants, each equipped with a single rear motor and battery configuration. Starting with the Standard variant, priced at an estimated RM104k, it offers a 170 PS motor paired with a 51 kWh LFP battery, providing a range of 350 km in the WLTP cycle.

Moving up the range, the Lux variant, priced at RM129k, boasts a more powerful motor and a larger NMC battery, delivering 203 PS and extending the range to 435 km. Finally, the Lux Extended Range variant, priced at RM149k, offers enhanced performance and range, courtesy of a 245 PS motor and a 77 kWh NMC battery, providing a range of 520 km.

Charging capabilities include AC charging at a maximum rate of 11 kW, enabling a full charge in eight hours, while DC fast charging at 150 kW allows for rapid replenishment, with a 30% to 80% state of charge achieved in 26 minutes. Notably, the MG4 offers V2L functionality at 6 kW, facilitating the powering of external appliances.

In terms of equipment, standard features on the MG4 include automatic LED projector headlamps, LED daytime running lights, automatic climate control, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Safety features encompass six airbags, rear Isofix child seat mounts, and the MG Pilot safety pack, among others.

Opting for the Lux variant adds additional features such as reflective technology for the LED headlamps, a 360-degree camera, wireless phone charger, and leather upholstery, among others. The Lux Extended Range variant offers increased performance and range without additional equipment enhancements.
In summary, the MG4 represents a compelling option in the electric hatchback segment, combining distinctive design, advanced technology, and impressive performance in a package that offers excellent value for money.

 

MG4 Standard 

MG4 Lux

MG4 Lux Ext. Range

MG4 XPOWER

Price

RM 103,999

RM 128,999

RM 148,999

RM 158,999

Battery

51kWh

64kWh

77kWh

64kWh

Range (WLTP)

350km

435km

520km

385km

Motor

Single (RWD)

Single (RWD)

Single (RWD)

Dual (AWD)

Power

170PS

203PS

245PS

435PS

Torque

250Nm

250Nm

350Nm

600Nm

0-100km/h

7.5s

7.7s

6.1s

3.8s

Max AC Charging

7kW 

7kW 

7kW 

7kW 

Max DC Charging

150kW

150kW

150kW

150kW

SAIC Motor Malaysia are offering the MG4 with a 7-year or 150,000km warranty (whichever comes first) as well as an 8-year or 180,000km (whichever comes first) battery warranty. Additionally, they are also providing MG customers with a 1-to-1 battery exchange program should the battery’s state-of-health dips below 70% during the battery warranty coverage period.  

Categories
Auto news

Chery Tiggo 7 Pro now open for booking in Malaysia – est below RM130,000

Shortly after the launch of the 2024 Chery Omoda E5, Chery Malaysia has yet to take any extended breaks for a job well done as they proceeded straight to the preview of yet another new model for 2024, the Chery Tiggo 7 Pro.

The C-segment SUV has been in the news as of late and those who are in the market for something like the Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, or Proton X70 can add yet another model to the list of SUVs to consider.

To put things into perspective, the Chery Tiggo 7 Pro will slot itself nicely between the Chery Omoda 5 and its bigger sibling with third-row seats, the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro.

Just like the two, the Tiggo 7 Pro will also see itself participating in the local assembly program in Kulim, Kedah. With ROIs now open, we can expect to see its official launch sometime within Q2 of this year.

The Tiggo 7 Pro’s entire exterior lighting system is all LEDs for the front headlights, sequential turn signals, daytime running lights, rear integrated taillights, as well as fog lights.

As for power output, the Chery Tiggo 7 Pro will be running a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that is said to produce 197hp and 290Nm of torque mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission with the ability to hit 0-100km/h in just 9.5 seconds (top speed 205km/h).

Other highlights that’ll make the Chery Tiggo 7 Pro a front-runner in the country’s C-segment SUV offering include:

18-inch alloy rims
Panoramic sunroof
Ventilated front seats
Dual 12.3-inch screens (driver display + centre screen)
540-degree HD panoramic camera
Sony 8-speaker audio system
Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
Wireless 50W charger
Extensive ADAS safety suite + more

Bookings for the 2024 Chery Tiggo 7 Pro are now open with an estimated price tag of below RM130,000. Customers can opt between four colour options – Bloodstone Red (Black Roof), Khaki White (Black Roof), Carbon Black, and Vanilla Blue.

Categories
Auto news

GWM slahes Good Cat prices by RM26k, now starts at RM114k! How does it stack up against other sub-RM150k EVs?

GWM has recently announced a significant price reduction of RM26,000 across the entire ORA Good Cat range, positioning the electric hatchback more competitively in the market. The revised prices start at RM113,800 (previously RM139,800) for the base 400 Pro model and escalate to RM143,800 for the 500 Ultra (previously RM169,800).

For those on the fence about EV ownership in Malaysia and the Good Cat in particular, the price adjustment is startling: the 400 Pro now stands RM16,000 below the 2023 BYD Atto 3 Standard Range, while the 500 Pro carries a RM3,000 advantage over the Omoda E5 (factoring in the latter’s inclusive on-the-road costs at RM146,800). It’s worth noting that GWM’s discounts extend to the latest 2024 model year car only.

To sweeten the deal even more, there’s also an extended warranty, stretching from the existing 5 years to 7 years (with the same 150,000 km mileage cap), accompanied by 5 years of complimentary service added while warranty for the battery and motor remains unchanged at 8 years or 180,000 km.

Additionally, GWM is offering a promotion until April 30th which would include a complimentary AC wallbox charger and three-pin portable charger for all new buyers of the Good Cat (soon to be renamed the ORA 03?).

Things are definitely getting more heated in the entry-to-mid level playing field for EVs offered in Malaysia, an area where GWM with the ORA Good Cat was one of the first to enter. It’s quite clear that this dramatic price reduction was motivated by pressure from the competition, namely other electric car brands from China such as BYD, Chery, and the imminent rollout of MG.

Though above the RM150,000 mark, buyers also have plenty of choice from entrants such as Tesla and smart, the sub-RM150k and sub-RM120k will make the most impact in terms of swaying a broader spectrum of Malaysians into EV adoption.

Here’s how some of the cars stack up against each other on paper.

EVs under RM150,000

 

ORA Good Cat

Chery Omoda E5

BYD Atto 3 Standard

MG ZS EV

Price 

RM114k – RM144k

RM 147k

RM 149,800

RM129k (estimate)

Body Style

Crossover

Crossover

Crossover

Crossover

Power/Torque

143PS/210Nm

204PS/340Nm

203PS/310Nm

176PS/280Nm

Battery Capacity

63kWh

61kWh

60kWh

51kWh 

Range 

420km (WLTP)

430km (WLTP)

410km (NEDC)

320km (WLTP)

AC Charging

6.6kW

9.9kW

7kW

7kW

DC Charging

60kW 

80kW

80kW

50kW

As we can see, the ORA Good Cat undercuts both the Chery Omoda 5 and BYD Atto 3 Standard Range, offering the lowest outlay for an EV of this size at a starting price of just RM113,800.

That said, there are other areas where its rivals come out ahead, such as the matter of power and torque where the Good Cat is clearly the least endowed in terms of raw output from its single electric motor. We found performance to not be an issue during our time testing it, but this will depends on your needs.

It’s AC and DC charging speeds aren’t especially fast, either, with the Omoda E5 and BYD Atto 3 boasting the fastest support for rapid charging.

All told, the ORA Good Cat is still the familiar EV we’ve known since its late 2022 launch and remains competitive from a purely spec-for-spec perspective, but with the drop in price across the range, the value calculous is altered dramatically.

What we are left wondering is, will we see similarly aggressive tactics from other automakers? For example, BYD did react quite quickly to the introduction of the Chery Omoda E5, offering their Atto 3 for a promotional price of RM129,800 for the Standard Range variant (2023 model year only), putting in very close proximity to the smaller Dolphin Premium Extended at RM125,730.

Below the RM120,000 mark we have the most attainably priced EVs currently on sale, a slice of the market that’s set to welcome the MG4, a new entrant with an estimated price of just RM104k along with an impressive specification.

EVs under RM120,000

 

BYD Dolphin Standard

Neta V

MG4 Standard

Price 

RM 100,530

RM 100,000

RM104k (estimated)

Body Style

Hatchback

Hatchback

Hatchback

Max Power/Torque

95PS/180Nm

95PS/160Nm

170PS/250Nm

Max Battery Capacity

44.9kWh

38.54kWh

51kWh

Max Range 

340km (WLTP)

380km (NEDC)

350km (WLTP)

Max AC Charging

6.6kW

9.9kW

7kW

Max DC Charging

60kW 

80kW

117kW

 

Categories
Auto news

GR Performance Parts for Toyota Alphard and Vellfire? Now available at Wing Hin!

If for some reason you’re not really satisfied with how your 2023 Toyota Alphard AH40 or Toyota Vellfire AGH40 look or feel, there’s something you can do about it.

Wing Hin, one of UMW Toyota’s top authorised dealers here in Malaysia, is also a fan of racing. While Wing Hin Motorsports might be busy carving through corners in their Vios Challenge race car, they do have some lovely parts for your new Alphard and Vellfire.

We’re talking official GR Performance Parts for AH40 Alphards and AGH40 Vellfires that enhance the aesthetics of the MPVs as well as improve handling for a better and safer driving experience overall.

For the Toyota Alphard, the GR Performance Parts consist of:

GR 20-inch forged alloy wheels
GR Sports side visor set
GR interior and exterior performance damper set
GR brace components
GR door stabilisers
GR carbon number plate & handle protection set

The same upgrades can be found for the 2023 Toyota Vellfire AGH40, with the addition of a GR front spoiler with LEDs, GR side skirt set, GR rear bumper spoiler, and GR dress-up muffler.

To know more, head over to Wing Hin Motorsports Facebook page.

 

Categories
Auto news

Top reasons why the MINI Countryman JCW Trim should be your next SAV

To all you MINIacs and enthusiasts here in the country, the MINI Cooper S Countryman is celebrating yet another major milestone since its Malaysian debut 13 years ago with an exclusive special edition of the Cooper S Countryman.

As the F60 generation MINI Countryman prepares for a last hurrah, it’s poised to enchant Malaysians with a graceful final waltz in the limited-edition JCW Trim.

It’s been quite a journey for the MINI Countryman since its first introduction back in 2011. MINIacs around the world were drawn by their versatility and practicality while retaining all the fun factors that MINIs are well-loved for.

The first-generation R60 MINI Countryman arrived in our local market in 2011. Then came the second-generation F60 in 2017. A facelifted model was introduced in 2021 with updated safety features, better tech and sharper looks. This Cooper S Countryman JCW Trim is the final hurrah for the F60 in Malaysia.  

Limited to just 168 units, here are the top reasons why the MINI Cooper S Countryman JCW Trim should be your next Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), apart from being one of only 168 owners here in the country.

1) Sporty JCW trim without breaking the bank

It goes with saying that if you’re a MINI fan, there’s no doubt that the John Cooper Works (JCW) models are high up on your list of ‘dream cars to own’.

If you fancy the full-blown JCW version of the Countryman, it’ll cost you close to RM390,000 to own one. However, if style is a priority and you want to save a bit of money for more exciting road trips in the future, then the MINI Countryman JCW Trim should be a no-brainer.

Thanks to addition of the JCW trim, any fellow MINIac will have their heads turned in awe and those who are new to the MINI Countryman will display the same level of ecstatic interest to know more about it and all of its JCW goodies.

For those who are fortunate enough to tag along for the ride can experience its premium interior features such as anthracite pillars and sun visors, plus super comfortable seats in the brand’s most spacious and adventure-ready vehicle offering yet.

The already iconic MINI Cooper Countryman in its standard form is already a head-turner in any crowd with a very reasonable asking price of RM250,388. It’s already a winner in the hearts of MINIacs around the world, but those who want a sportier facade can get it with the JCW trim priced at RM253,833.

 

That extra RM3,445 will get you a number of additions to make the MINI Countryman look ever sportier such as:

John Cooper Works (JCW) aerodynamic kit (front apron with built-in air ducts + rear bumper with JCW diffuser)
MINI JCW door sill finishers
Sporty JCW rear spoiler
19-inch JCW Circuit Spoke Wheels

2) MINI’s iconic comfort

Despite the sportier exterior facade, the MINI Countryman JCW Trim does not forgo one of its main highlights that can be found within the cabin – premium comfort.

Not every car today offers seats that promote a healthy orthopaedic seating posture with ample lumbar support and plush materials so that you can travel far and wide without straining your back and accompanying muscles.

For the driver, even the 5.0-inch multifunctional instrument cluster has been meticulously designed to provide a sleek yet minimalist appearance for useful information to be projected yet not distracting to your exhilarating drives.

Travelling up to 5 can be easily done with premium comfort paired with 450 liters of boot capacity to ferry all of your cargo along the trip. Trust us when we say that your entire family will adore MINI Countryman JCW Trim.

Need more space for trips to places like Ikea or a surfing holiday to Cherating? Simply fold the rear seats to get 1,000 litres of storage while carrying two other passengers.

If it’s just the two of you seated upfront, then the MINI Countryman JCW Trim’s storage prowess is further elevated to 1,390 litres. That’ll bring a lot more fun to your shopping holiday and drive up to places like Bangkok, Thailand.

3) Versatile yet exciting driving

Your everyday drives can be easily conquered with the MINI Countryman JCW Trim. Thanks to its dynamic yet powerful 2-litre MINI TwinPower Turbo engine, you can have all sorts of fun with 192hp and 280Nm of torque on tap.

Mated to a seven-speed Dual Clutch Sports Automatic Transmission, it can do 0-100km/h in just 7.5 seconds before swiftly arriving to its top speed of 226km/h.

Ferrying the kids to school and heading to work after? Do so in comfort and save fuel with the GREEN Driving Mode. Want some ‘touge’ action? Switch it up to SPORT mode and enjoy fast gear changes and MINI’s iconic handling.

For those who are interested, the MINI Countryman JCW Trim is available in four different colour options – British Racing Green, Chilli Red, Nanuq White and Sage Green.

Priced at RM253,833, there’s also the ‘peace of mind’ add-on in the form of the MINI Extended Warranty and Service Package for just RM10,400.

For those who prefer the more classic look of the MINI Cooper S Countryman priced from RM250,388, just head to the nearest MINI authorised centre to book one of your very own. Additionally, you may also visit MINI Malaysia’s official website for more information.

Whichever Countryman you prefer, you can be sure that you’ll be dressed to impress when you are cruising down the street.

Book one or BUY NOW before it’s too late!

Categories
Auto news

Isuzu unveils fully electric D-Max EV Concept, coming to 2024 Bangkok Motor Show

Isuzu has recently unveiled a new concept, a D-Max EV, signalling the company’s venture into the realm of battery electric vehicles (BEVs). Details remain scarce, but this all-electric pick-up truck is scheduled to make its public debut at the upcoming Bangkok International Motor Show later this month.

Characterised as being “developed to meet a broad range of commercial and passenger vehicle needs while retaining the tough underlying performance expected of pick-up trucks,” the D-Max BEV marks new ground for the Japanese brand. Ironically, Toyota is the only seems to be on a similar track with their HiLux REVO BEV from 2022.

Isuzu, for its part, is calling this fully electric D-Max a concept in name only as it’s reported that the production iteration of the BEV pickup is slated for launch in select European markets, with Norway being the initial target in 2025.

Subsequent rollout plans encompass markets such as the United Kingdom, Australia, and of course Thailand, contingent upon both market demand and the advancement of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure.

In terms of design, the D-Max BEV distinguishes itself from its diesel-powered counterpart through a series of unique styling cues. Its front grille features a predominantly closed-off design, complemented by enhanced black sections on the front apron. Notably, blue accents adorn the grille insert and headlamps, adding a touch of flair to the vehicle’s aesthetic.

Underpinning the D-Max BEV’s performance is the integration of components borrowed from the Elf EV, including the battery pack and management system incorporated into the midsection of the ladder-frame chassis. With a 66.9 kWh battery capacity boasting dual electric motors situated on each axle, the D-Max EV concept delivers a combined system output of 177 PS and 325 Nm. That said, the real question remains about its claimed range on a single charge.

Moreover, the D-Max BEV boasts full-time four-wheel drive functionality and achieves a top speed exceeding 130 km/h. Its towing capacity extends to 3.5 tonnes, while the vehicle remains capable of carrying a maximum payload of 1,000 kg. Isuzu’s emphasis on both power and practicality underscores the D-Max BEV’s suitability for a diverse range of applications.

Again, we’re expecting to hear much more about this fully electric Isuzu D-Max as it’s shown off to the public at the Bangkok International Motor Show happening at the end of March.

 

Language