Tune Motoring

Below is the list of public holidays in Malaysia for the year 2024 and some tips on proper car maintenance before heading on a road trip.

Malaysia Public Holidays 2024

Below is the list of public holidays in Malaysia 2024. The public holidays 2024 Malaysia dates are subject to official changes, hence it is recommended to check back regularly for updates. 
 

Date

Day

Holiday

States

1 Jan

Mon

New Year’s Day

National except Johor, Kedah, Kelantan, Perlis & Terengganu

14 Jan

Sun

YDPB Negeri Sembilan’s Birthday

Negeri Sembilan

15 Jan

Mon

YDPB Negeri Sembilan’s Birthday Holiday

Negeri Sembilan

25 Jan

Thu

Thaipusam

Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Putrajaya,  Johor, Kedah, Negeri Sembilan, Penang & Perak

1 Feb

Thu

Federal Territory Day

Kuala Lumpur, Labuan & Putrajaya

8 Feb

Thu

Israk and Mikraj

Kedah, Negeri Sembilan, Perlis & Terengganu

10 Feb

Sat 

Chinese New Year

National

11 Feb

Sun

Chinese New Year Holiday

National

12 Feb

Mon

Chinese New Year Holiday

National except Johor & Kedah

20 Feb

Tue

Independence Declaration Day

Melaka

4 Mar

Mon

Installation of Sultan Terengganu

Terengganu

12 Mar

Tue

Awal Ramadan

Johor, Kedah & Melaka

23 Mar

Sat

Sultan of Johor’s Birthday

Johor

28 Mar

Thu

Nuzul al-Quran

National except Johor, Kedah, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Sabah & Sarawak

29 Mar

Fri

Good Friday

Sabah & Sarawak

10 Apr

Wed

Hari Raya Aidilfitri

National

11 Apr

Thu

Hari Raya Aidilfitri Holiday

National

26 Apr

Fri 

Sultan of Terengganu’s Birthday

Terengganu

1 May 

Wed

Labour Day 

National

17 May

Fri

Raja Perlis’ Birthday

Perlis

22 May 

Wed

Wesak Day 

National

23 May

Thu

Hari Hol Pahang Holiday

Pahang

30 May

Thu

Harvest Festival

Labuan & Sabah

31 May

Fri

Harvest Festival Holiday

Labuan & Sabah

1 Jun

Sat

Hari Gawai

Sarawak

2 Jun

Sun

Hari Gawai Holiday

Sarawak

3 Jun

Mon

Agong’s Birthday

National

4 Jun 

Tue

Hari Gawai Holiday

Sarawak

16 Jun

Sun

Arafat Day

Kelantan & Terengganu

17 Jun

Mon

Hari Raya Haji

National

16 Jun

Tue

Hari Raya Haji Holiday

Kedah, Kelantan, Perlis & Terengganu

30 Jun

Sun

Sultan of Kedah’s Birthday

Kedah

7 Jul

Sun

Georgetown World Heritage City Day

Penang

7 Jul

Sun

Awal Muharram

National

8 Jul

Mon

Awal Muharram Holiday

National except Johor, Kedah, Kelantan & Terengganu

9 Jul

Tue

Georgetown World Heritage City Holiday

Penang

13 Jul

Sat

Penang Governor’s Birthday

Penang

22 Jul

Mon

Sarawak Day

Sarawak

30 Jul

Tue

Sultan of Pahang’s Birthday

Pahang

11 Aug

Sun

Hari Hol Almarhum Sultan Iskandar

Johor

24 Aug

Sat

Melaka Governor’s Birthday

Melaka

31 Aug

Sat

Merdeka Day

National

1 Sep

Sun

Merdeka Day Holiday

Kelantan & Terengganu

16 Sep

Mon

Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday

National

16 Sep

Mon

Malaysia Day

National

17 Sep

Tue

Malaysia Day Holiday

National

29 Sep

Sun

Sultan of Kelantan’s Birthday

Kelantan

30 Sep

Mon

Sultan of Kelantan’s Birthday Holiday

Kelantan

5 Oct

Sat

Sabah Governor’s Birthday

Sabah

12 Oct

Sat

Sarawak Governor’s Birthday

Sarawak

31 Oct

Thu

Deepavali

National except Sarawak

1 Nov

Fri

Sultan of Perak’s Birthday

Perak

11 Dec

Wed

Sultan of Selangor’s Birthday

Selangor

24 Dec

Tue

Christmas Eve

Sabah

25 Dec

Wed

Christmas Day

National

This list of 2024 public holidays Malaysia is to help better plan your holidays and festive celebrations. You may find below the Malaysia calendar 2024 with public holidays. 

 

Car maintenance tips: How to check your car before a road trip or long holiday

Road trips are fun and much loved by Malaysians, with endless choice of delicious food and great scenery just a couple of hours drive away. However, the fun could very easily turn into a nightmare if your car decides to break down mid-journey.

Here are some car maintenance tips and how to check if your car is working well to fully enjoy the road trip experience! 

1. How to check engine oil

Engine oil is the most important part of any vehicle as it helps to reduce friction between components and ensure that everything runs smoothly. You can identify whether your engine oil needs to be changed based on these five warning signs:

Knocking sound from the engine caused by friction between the metal components as a result of dirty or less concentrated engine oil. 

Smell of burning petrol or gray/bluish smoke coming out from the exhaust pipe caused by an oil leak or engine overheating.

Darker engine oil colour as compared to the usual brown or transparent caused by dirt and debris from internal combustion of the engine. This is usually the simplest indicator and can be identified with a simple dipstick oil check.

How to check engine oil level:

Remove the dipstick and clean it from any oil particles
Re-insert the dipstick into the engine oil and check the oil level and colour
If the oil is above the average level, remove some of the oil so as to not affect the engine performance
Clean the dipstick with a tissue and check the oil colour
Car engine warning light starts blinking on the dashboard indicating that the car is low on black oil. 

Increase in fuel consumption caused by dilution of the engine oil which results in more stress on the engine. 

 

 

2. How to check coolant level

The coolant is important in keeping the engine running at a safe temperature and prevents overheating. It is important to know how to check the coolant level on a road trip as long drives put a lot of strain on the engine. It is important to know that you should not check the coolant level while the engine is still hot as it may lead to serious burns. Here is how to check your coolant level:

Open the hood of the car and locate the coolant reservoir

The coolant reservoir should have a  L (low) and F (full) markings on it

Add more coolant if the fluid is close to the L marking, all the way close to the F marking

Low coolant level or overheating should also be indicated on the dashboard if it happens

 

3. How to check brake fluid and car brake pad

The brake fluid functions to ensure that your brakes work well. This is especially important to prevent major accidents from occuring. Here is how to check brake fluid levels:

Open the hood of the car and identify the brake cylinder reservoir

Check the fluid level by making sure it is not too low from the ‘full’ line

Fill up the reservoir if brake fluid is low. However, a low brake fluid usually indicates that the brake pads have worn out. It is highly recommended to consult a professional car mechanic for proper maintenance

Here is how to check car brake pad:

You can check the brake pad through the holes in the wheel. Thin-looking brake pads indicate it is time for a replacement

Loud squealing noise when braking may indicate a wear in brake pads

Vibrating in the brake pedal or steering wheel when braking may also indicate worn brake pads

 

 

4. How to check power steering fluid

The power steering fluid functions to ensure that the steering wheel is responsive and smooth. You may check the power steering fluid level with the following steps:

Open the hood of the car and locate the power steering fluid reservoir

Identify the fluid level by ensuring it is above the MIN marking but not over the MAX marking

Some vehicles may be equipped with a dipstick instead. Identify the fluid level by inserting the dipstick to check the fluid level

Add power steering fluid up to the appropriate level

 

5. How to check gearbox oil level

Maintaining the gearbox oil at an optimum level is important to ensure you can switch gears smoothly on the road. Here are steps on how to check your gearbox oil level:

Open the hood and locate the automatic transmission fluid with its dipstick. 

Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean

Re-insert the dipstick and remove it

The dipstick should have two ‘Full’ markings – one warm and one cold

Add automatic transmission fluid if the level is below the warm line

 

6. How to check car tires

The car tires are the main contact points with the road and should be checked frequently to prevent accidents from happening. Here are some important factors to consider to ensure that your tyre is in the perfect condition for a road trip.

How to check tire balance

Ensuring that your tires are balanced is important as it helps to distribute weight evenly around the entire circumference of the tire which helps to prevent premature wear of car parts and uncomfortable vibrations when driving. Here are some tips on how to check if your tires are balanced:

A delay in steering wheel response time or veering of tires to left or right may indicate unbalanced tires

Higher fuel consumption as a result of resistance is also an indicator of tire imbalance

Uneven tire wear is one of the most distinctive signs of unbalanced tires

Wear and tear of springs, shocks, bearings and other components may be a sign of tire imbalance as it causes the vehicle to work under immense pressure

How to check tire alignment

Proper wheel alignment is necessary to avoid premature wear on tyres, steering, suspension and brakes as well as optimizes driving stability, maximizes tyre life and improves handling performance. Here are some tips on how to check tire alignment:

You can inspect your car’s alignment using a measuring tape and a level. The distance between the front and rear centerlines of the tires should be equal. You may also place a level on top of the tires to check for vertical alignment

The tire may not be aligned if there is more wear and tear on one side of the tire as compared to the other

Scraping, whining or grinding sounds may indicate that the tire has been misaligned

How to check tyre pressure

It is important to ensure that your tyre pressure is optimum as this helps to maximize tyre life, quicker steering response, better fuel efficiency and better vehicle performance. Here are some tips on how to check tyre pressure:

You may use a digital or standard tyre pressure gauge. This can easily be purchased in workshops or found at petrol stations. 

You may check your tyres’ recommended PSI by looking at the PSI stated by the side door.  

 

 

7. How to check car battery health

The car battery is the most vital component of a car. Without it, cars are unable to function. As like any other components, a car battery will need to be changed occasionally, between two to five years, depending on the usage. 

Check the battery electrolyte level to ensure that it is at least three quarter of the whole battery cell

Ensure that the battery terminal connecting the car’s electronic system to the car battery is tight and clean as loose terminals will cause a buildup of green salts

It may be time to change the car battery if the car takes longer than usual to start

Requiring jump-start assistance especially during cooler temperatures indicate that a change in car battery may be needed

A bloated or swollen looking car battery indicates that a new car battery is needed

An acidic smell emitting from the car battery when the bonnet is opened is a sign to change to car battery

 

BMW Malaysia has officially announced that the first-ever BMW iX2 xDrive30 for 2024 is now available for pre-booking.

Considered as the all-electric version of the BMW X2, the 2024 BMW iX2 xDrive30 combines modern yet sporty design cues as well as maintaining the brand’s elegant yet dynamic facade.

According to Benjamin Nagel, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia, “At the BMW Group, we are constantly in the pursuit of enhancing our offerings as we deliver Sheer Electric Driving Pleasure. The BMW iX2 xDrive30 exemplifies this commitment, marking its debut as the First-Ever All-Electric Premium Sport Activity Coupe within the BMW X2 class.”

“This introduction underscores our position as the Number One Premium EV provider in Malaysia, a milestone achieved through our extensive efforts in the realm of Electric Mobility, with the delivery of over 3,600 units of BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad electrified vehicles in 2023,” added Mr. Nagel.

The front end of the BMW iX2 comes with a newly redesigned closed kidney grille paired with a black mesh grille as well as a black high-gloss kidney frame with the BMW Kidney Iconic Glow. Shining the way is done via its adaptive LED headlights with BMW Selective Beam designed for enhanced visibility and improved safety.

With one electric motor positioned on each axle, the 2024 BMW iX2 can produce 313hp which allows it to hit 0-100km/h in 5.6 seconds followed by a limited top speed of 180km/h.

As for range, its 66.5kWh battery pack can go up to 449km (WLTP) per full charge. Speaking of charging, the BMW iX2 supports DC charging up to 130kW. It’ll only take 29 minutes to charge it from 10-80%.

For AC, you’ll get the standard 11kW which can fully charge the battery in 6 hours and 30 minutes.

Other highlights include:

20-inch M light alloy wheels
0.25-inch HD instrument display cluster
10.7-inch control display
Full-colour BMW Head-Up Display
Harman Kardon Hi-Fi speaker system
“Veganza” leather-alternative upholstery + more

For those who are interested, the 2024 BMW iX2 xDrive30 comes with a recommended retail pricing of RM282,800 (on the road without insurance). Owners will also receive the BMW 5-year unlimited mileage warranty, 8-Year Battery Warranty (or 160,000km), Roadside Assistance, Accident Hotline, and BMW Service Online.

 

Xiaomi has officially launched its much-anticipated SU7 sedan in Beijing yesterday, marking a significant leap into the electric vehicle market from a brand that we associate most of all with smartphones and consumer electronics.

With prices ranging from 215,900 to 299,900 Yuan (approximately RM142k to RM196k) and scheduled deliveries set to commence by the end of April, the Xiaomi SU7 is offered over 3 variants positioned to both undercut and outperform the venerable Tesla Model 3.

Sure, this all does sound a little familiar, but what novel tactics does Xiaomi bring to their newfound EV offensive?

Ambitious Industry Benchmarking

They’ve certainly been ambitious with their choice of adversary, especially given its the company’s first foray into EVs. Several prominent ‘Model 3 killers’ have spawned in the wake of the American EV maker’s entry-level sedan release such as the BYD Seal, Nio ET5, Xpeng P7, and the ORA 07 to name a few.

Yesterday’s launch event was hosted by Xiaomi co-founder Lei Jun who openly expects the SU7 to match the Porsche Taycan Turbo S in its most performance-oriented variant. He also acknowledged that, at these prices, each car would be sold at a loss (Tesla’s Model 3 starts at 245,900 yuan or roughly RM161k in China).

Adding a measure of prestige to the occasion was former BMW Group Chief of Design, Chris Bangle, who took the stage to commend the SU7, the development of which he was involved with as a consultant to Xiaomi Auto Design, and endorsing its suitability for European markets.

Impressive Specification

The SU7 is manufactured in Beijing by BAIC, a state-owned automaker and the country’s 6th-largest. Three powertrain variants will be offered, catering to different preferences and driving requirements. Kicking things off is the SU7 Standard featuring BYD’s LFP Blade battery with a capacity of 73.6 kWh. The top-tier Max Performance version, meanwhile, is equipped with a 101 kWh CATL Qilin battery.

 

SU7 Standard

SU7 Pro

SU7 Max Performance

Price 

215,900 Yuan

245,900 Yuan

299,900 Yuan

Battery Model

BYD LFP Blade

CATL Shenxing

CATL Qilin

Battery Capacity

73.6kWh

94.3kWh

101kWh

Range

700km (CLTC)

830km (CLTC)

800km (CLTC)

Drive Layout

Single Motor, RWD

Single Motor, RWD

Dual Motor, AWD

Power

299PS

299PS

673PS

Torque

400Nm

400Nm

838Nm

0-100km/h

5.28s

5.7s

2.78s

Top Speed

210km/h

210km/h

265km/h

ADAS

Xiaomi Pilot Pro

Xiaomi Pilot Max

Xiaomi Pilot Max

The SU7 also boasts advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), offering two distinct options: Xiaomi Pilot Pro and Xiaomi Pilot Max. These systems leverage Nvidia Drive Orin chips with up to 508 teraflops of compute power to enhance safety and performance on the road. Additionally, the sedan supports Apple CarPlay and native iPad connectivity and accessory support.

Inside, the SU7 looks modern and minimal, quite typical of the many EVs currently out there. There are ample storage solutions, including some interesting inbuilt compartments for laptops, smartphones, and even refrigerators. The vehicle’s roomy interior, coupled with its Modena platform, ensures a refined experience while on the move.

Human x Car x Home

With the launch of the SU7, Xiaomi is shifting to what it calls the ”Human x Car x Home” smart ecosystem, with a strong emphasis expectedly on automobiles and their integration into the lives of their owners.

Co-founder Lei Jun declared the completion of this ecosystem with the addition of the Xiaomi EV, saying it facilitates collaboration and among individuals, devices, and services, with over 200 product categories seamlessly integrated across platforms and operating systems, delivering personalised intelligence through Xiaomi HyperMind’s AI capabilities.

Collaborating with industry partners, Xiaomi aims to make its ecosystem more inclusive and human-centered. Lei Jun sees Xiaomi’s entry into the automotive industry as a significant milestone, reflecting deep investment in core technologies and signaling the company’s evolution in intelligent manufacturing. He envisions Xiaomi EVs becoming commonplace worldwide, marking a new era for Xiaomi.

Deliveries of the Standard and Max versions slated to begin in late April 2024, followed by the Pro version by the end of May. No word yet about when a wider global will begin, but our fingers are crossed that Malaysia isn’t too far down that list.

 

In conjunction with Hari Raya Aidilfitri which is just around the corner, the Works Ministry has announced that there will be toll-free travel on all highways from 8-9 April 2024.

This toll-free exemption applies to all Class 1 vehicles (private vehicles) which will start from 12.01 am on 8 April 2024 to 11.59 pm on 9 April 2024.

This applies to all toll plazas except at two locations – Bangunan Sultan Iskandar (BSI) and Tanjung Kupang, Johor.

According to Works Minister, Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, “This decision was made during the Cabinet meeting on Feb 7, aimed at celebrating all citizens, especially the Islamic community, who celebrate Aidilfitri, and as a gesture of care and shared joy with all Malaysians.”

It is also expected that the number of vehicles will increase to 2.46 million per day during this toll-free travel period. To avoid massive congestion, fellow motorists are also advised to follow the travel time advisory (TTA) schedule.

Another tactic that will be deployed to fight against congestion is the activation of Smart Lanes at 18 different locations on the PLUS Highway. Hopefully, all highway users including motorcyclists can be aware of the new Smart Lane locations this Hari Raya.

In the realm of prospective vehicle ownership, especially when looking in the used market, the issue of mileage tampering remains a significant concern. So, what is it, and how can you mitigate your chances of falling prey to it?

Mileage tampering, commonly referred to as “clocking” or “rollback,” involves altering the odometer reading of a vehicle to display a lower mileage than the actual distance travelled. As you can imagine, the motivations behind this are deceitful.

Sellers may engage in mileage tampering to inflate the resale value of their vehicles, deceive prospective buyers regarding the vehicle’s condition, or evade penalties associated with lease agreements.

Unfortunately, Malaysia could do better to have stricter laws to deter would-be perpetrators, as is the case in many other countries where individuals who knowingly engage in mileage tampering are likely to swiftly face legal consequences.

That said, educating consumers about the risks associated with mileage tampering is crucial in fostering transparency and accountability within the automotive industry, and with that, here are some simple ways you can prevent being duped into buying a car with a “rolled-back” mileage reading.

1. Check service history.

An up-to-date service history is one of the most important things to check when selecting a used car, so it should be one of your first things to ask about from the seller. Feel free to look at any and all the relevant maintenance and repair documentation as well.

New cars under manufacturer warranty will require it to undergo routine maintenance at an authorised dealer or official appointed service centres, with mileage and work done clearly logged. Most owners also keep these receipts, which further reinforces the credibility of the car’s mileage. If the numbers don’t match, that’s definitely a red flag.

2. Does its condition match the mileage?

The saying “if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is” applies strongly to buying used or reconditioned cars. Take your time to inspect the overall exterior and interior condition of the vehicle. If it doesn’t match the expected condition given its mileage and history, further investigation is necessary.

Signs of tampering include scuff marks around the gauge cluster, newer-looking gauges or odometers, and non-functional or faulty operation of the trip computer/odometer. Other than that, be sure to check the thickness of brake discs and the car’s tyre condition, as discrepancies may indicate mileage rollback. A low-mileage vehicle, for example, is likely to still be fitted with its factory tyres.

3. Have the car inspected by a trusted mechanic.

Mechanics possess the expertise to identify subtle signs of tampering that ordinary buyers might miss. Their technical knowledge allows them to thoroughly examine the vehicle’s mechanical components, detecting any inconsistencies between the odometer reading and the actual condition of the car.

Additionally, mechanics have access to diagnostic tools and equipment that can reveal electronic tampering or manipulation of the odometer. Their presence during the early viewing process provides buyers with peace of mind and professional guidance, ensuring they make an informed decision about the purchase.

Should you not be able to bring a mechanic with you to help you with the viewing, you could make a request to the seller that the car be brought to an independent mechanic for a more thorough inspection. How the seller responds to this, especially if you already suspect the car’s mileage being tampered with, should inform you of their motives.

A Quality Used Car, Every Time

We, as car buyers, have to remain vigilant while undertaking the purchase of something as important and financially significant as a car, especially when you know there are unscrupulous individuals out there that may have you paying way above the worth of the car.

But why not skip the headache and uncertainty altogether?

All CARSOME Certified cars go through a strict 175-point inspection to rule out mileage tampering, major accident, flood, and fire damage. Additionally, they all come with fixed prices with no hidden fees, and a hassle-free purchase experience where we’ll handle all the documents for you.

Head over to the CARSOME website to view their extensive selection of high quality Certified cars or, alternatively, download the CARSOME app available for iOS and Android.

 

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.

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.

 

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.

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.

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.