Tune Motoring

The new 2023 Toyota Alphard and Vellfire were just launched a couple of weeks back in Japan and Malaysians are already talking about them coming here.

It seems that a number of people have posted what supposedly are the official prices of the 2023 Toyota Alphard and Vellfire directly from UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd. Too good to be true? Let’s look a little bit deeper, shall we?

Starting with the 2023 Toyota Vellfire, several posts on social media have indicated that the price of the 2.5 AT variant is set at RM438,000 (on-the-road price without insurance).

The new Vellfire in Japan does indeed share the same 2.5-litre hybrid powertrain as the new 2023 Alphard, but the biggest highlight for the Vellfire for 2023 is the range-topping variant that comes with the new 2.4-litre turbocharged engine to replace the outgoing 3.5-litre V6 unit.

Moving on the Alphard, the so-called 2023 pricing is said to be RM538,000 – RM100k more than the Vellfire. Presented as the Executive Lounge variant with a 2.4-litre turbocharged engine, is indeed different from the ones launched recently in Japan.

The new Alphard is actually priced cheaper than the Vellfire and paired with either a 2.5-litre petrol engine (2AR-FE) or the 2.5-litre Series Parallel Hybrid System (A25A-FXS). Again, different information from the ‘official prices’ document currently going viral online.

With that being said, will the 2023 Toyota Alphard and Vellfire come to Malaysia? Perhaps, but not this soon. And if they do come, the hybrid versions should be one of the variants being pushed considering the fact that UMW Toyota is indeed pushing for the multi-pathway solutions that involve hybrids, PHEVs, EVs, and more.

 

Tesla Malaysia has officially announced that it will officiate its arrival into the Malaysian market on July 20th.

While the announcement itself has been deleted from its official Instagram account for reasons unknown, we can expect to see the arrival of either the Model 3 or Model Y or even both at the same time.

Tesla Malaysia has been receiving a lot of hype, particularly due to the big involvement from our current Minister of Trade and Industry, Tengku Zafrul. In the next few weeks, Malaysia will be the third country in Southeast Asia to officially sell the Tesla offerings after Singapore and Thailand.

Looking at the photo, we can see that the Model Y is being ‘previewed’ for launch, but considering the fact that it shares a lot of parts with the Model 3, it makes sense for Tesla Malaysia to bring in both models at the same time to cater to both the sedan enthusiasts as well as the SUV followers in the country.

The next obvious question would be the pricing. The best indicator is most likely the ones sold in Thailand with prices starting from THB1,759,000 to THB2,309,000 for the Model 3, which is around RM235k to RM308k.

As for the Model Y, you can buy one in Thailand from THB1,959,000 to THB2,509,000 (around RM262k to RM335k) for three different variants (same as the Model 3). Judging by these figures, our best-educated guess would be an estimated starting price tag of RM250k for the Model 3 and closer to the RM300k mark for the Model Y.

Also, expect to see three different variants for each model that starts with the Standard Range RWD followed by the Long Range AWD and the Performance AWD. We will only know for sure once we arrive on the fateful date of 20 July 2023. Stay tuned for more updates.

 

A few months ago, we had the opportunity to test the Honda HR-V Turbo, which left us thoroughly impressed with its excellence among small crossovers. 

However, we must admit that our initial impression of the Honda HR-V e:HEV RS hybrid was less than favourable. Oh, how mistaken we were! The HR-V RS e:HEV has gracefully proven us wrong and exceeded our expectations.

Our journey to rediscover the HR-V RS e:HEV began in Thailand, where we initially experienced the third-generation Honda HR-V in its hybrid form. 

Although we appreciated the striking new exterior and interior design, we were somewhat put off by the constant hum of the engine in the e:HEV variant.

However, our perception changed entirely when we encountered the Malaysian-spec Honda HR-V hybrid, which showcased a remarkable distinction from its Thai counterpart. 

For some reason, it exudes an essence that closely resembles that of an electric vehicle, captivating our attention.

The Malaysian-spec HR-V RS e:HEV has redefined our understanding of its hybrid capabilities. It feels remarkably different, elevating the driving experience to one that closely resembles the grace and tranquillity of an electric vehicle. 

The incessant engine noise that hindered our enthusiasm in Thailand has been transformed, unveiling a newfound harmony and poise.

In retrospect, our initial dismissal of the HR-V e:HEV as a lesser vehicle compared to the HR-V Turbo has been gracefully overturned. This hybrid variant has proven to possess its own unique charm and allure, providing a refreshing alternative to its Turbo sibling. 

It beautifully combines the best of both worlds, blending fuel efficiency with a refined and fun driving experience.

Buckle up, folks, because if you’re here considering in purchassing the 2023 Honda HR-V e:HEV, let us tell you that it can inject some serious fun into your urban adventures. 

This zippy little car is undoubtedly one of the best city rides you can get your hands on. Thanks to its hybrid powertrain and remarkable fuel efficiency, the HR-V e:HEV is like a pocket-sized superhero ready to conquer the concrete jungle.

Let’s talk about the HR-V e:HEV’s fun factor. The RS e:HEV is equipped with a 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated Atkinson-cycle petrol engine + electric motor that produces 131PS and 253Nm (240Nm in the turbo) of torque in total. Its powertrain delivers a punchy performance that will have you grinning from ear to ear. 

With instant torque and seamless acceleration as it can deliver torque from 0 rpm, merging into traffic becomes a breeze, and darting through city streets feels like a thrilling game. The best part? You’ll be zipping around town while sipping fuel like a dainty tea party guest.

Picture this: From the moment we embarked on our week long escapade with it, not a single drop of fuel was added to its reservoir. Yes, you read that correctly. 

Throughout the memorable period, the HR-V e:HEV remained steadfast in its commitment to deliver an extraordinary range, surpassing all expectations. With astonishing finesse, it gallantly glided across the pavement, gracefully surpassing the 600-kilometre mark without so much as a single refuelling pit stop.

For those who yearn for the freedom to explore without being bound by the necessity of frequent refuelling, the Honda HR-V hybrid stands as a testament to Honda’s future of automotive ingenuity. 

Its ability to traverse vast distances without interruption defies the norm and embarks on a bold path of its own, setting a new standard in the realm of fuel efficiency and long-range capabilities.

While our admiration for the Honda HR-V e:HEV knows no bounds, it is essential to approach this assessment with a balanced perspective, acknowledging its imperfections alongside its commendable attributes.

When you hit the open road, the HR-V RS e:HEV does lose a bit of its oomph compared to its beefed-up sibling, the Honda HR-V Turbo. If you crave that extra boost of power for highway cruises or daring overtakes, the Turbo might be more your speed demon. 

But fear not, because the HR-V e:HEV still deserves your attention and admiration.

Why, you ask? Well, it’s all about that overall refinement, thanks to the hybrid powertrain. This beauty seamlessly transitions between electric and petrol power, creating a serene and whisper-quiet ride. 

The cabin is a haven of tranquillity, shielding you from the chaos of the outside world. Plus, you’ll be saving the environment one joyful ride at a time, with reduced emissions and a smug eco-friendly smile.

Speaking of cabin, the Honda HR-V distinguishes itself from its Civic counterpart, showcasing premium elements that contribute to an immensely gratifying and inviting driving environment.

The ergonomics of the cabin set a new standard, with every switchgear and piece of brightwork exuding a top-tier quality. Honda’s thoughtful approach is evident in the knurled dials and knobs for the climate control, allowing for effortless adjustments to individual airflow preferences.

But it’s not just the impeccable ergonomics and intuitive controls that earn our enthusiastic approval. The air conditioning system itself has been ingeniously designed to deliver a gentle breeze throughout the entire cabin, courtesy of Honda’s innovative ‘Air Diffusion System.’ 

Positioned in L-shaped vents at the top corners of the dashboard, the airflow creates a natural and refreshing ambiance, deviating from the typical direct blasts of air. It’s a small detail that makes a remarkable difference, and in the HR-V, it’s an effortless experience—no need for meticulous adjustments.

Moreover, the driving position in the HR-V surpasses that of any other small SUV in recent times. It exudes a commanding presence, akin to a mid-size SUV. The redesigned front seats, elevated by 10mm, contribute to this elevated perspective. 

Now, here’s an interesting tidbit. In the quirky realm of automotive mysteries, the Honda HR-V hybrid in the Thailand market didn’t quite live up to its electrifying reputation. 

The engine seemed to have a constant hum, like a never-ending chit-chat session. But fear not, because the HR-V e:HEV in our neck of the woods is a whole different ballgame. With a gentle touch on the throttle, it’s like cruising in your very own electric wonderland, and sticks true to its EV mode.

So, should you consider the Honda HR-V e:HEV? Absolutely! It’s the ultimate urban companion, bringing fun, efficiency, and refinement to your city escapades. 

While it may not have the same grunt on open roads as its Turbo sibling, the HR-V RS e:HEV makes up for it with its electrifying charm. Just throttle moderately, and you’ll feel like you’re piloting your very own electric superhero. 

So, grab the wheel, buckle up, and let the HR-V RS e:HEV take you on a joyride through the concrete jungle. Fun awaits!

Isuzu is taking the safety and convenience of driving the D-Max pick-up truck to the next level by introducing reverse cameras as a standard feature across the entire Isuzu double cab range.

With this upgrade, parking challenges will be a thing of the past, especially when dealing with bulky loads that the D-Max handles with ease.

Responding to feedback from traders who prioritise the added security of a parking aid in their trucks, Isuzu has made a significant update to its base Standard 1.9-litre versions. While the range-topping X-Terrain and high-specification Premium variants have already enjoyed this feature, the reverse camera is now included as a standard feature in the base Standard models.

“With the immense capability of our pick-up trucks, the Isuzu D-Max continues to appeal to those who
depend on them heavily on a daily basis. By providing these users with a factory-fitted solution for their
parking needs, not only do we help protect their investments, it also ensures that their vehicles continue to remain mobile reliably and safely,” said Isuzu Malaysia’s Chief Operating Officer Kenkichi Sogo.

Isuzu takes pride in being the first manufacturer in Malaysia to offer reverse cameras as a standard feature across its entire double cab pick-up truck range.

The reverse camera is neatly placed next to the tailgate handle, and the images are transmitted to a new 7-inch touchscreen infotainment head unit in the 1.9-litre Standard model. This unit also includes Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for music playback when paired with modern smartphones.

To cater to the needs of personal communication devices, the 1.9-litre Standard models are now equipped with two built-in USB ports up front – one Type A and one Type C – providing occupants with more charging options.

In terms of exterior differentiation, the new 1.9-litre Standard models feature body-colored door and tailgate handles, replacing the previous silver handles.

The enhanced Isuzu D-Max 1.9-litre Standard model is available with either a 6-speed manual or automatic gearbox, with a marginal price increase of RM1,500.00 compared to the outgoing variant.

Prices for the D-Max start from RM 105,599.20 on the road without insurance in Peninsular Malaysia.

For more information on the impressive new Isuzu D-Max, visit pickuptruck.isuzu.net.my or https://www.facebook.com/ISUZU.DMax.Malaysia/.

Starting from July 3, a dedicated bus lane will be implemented along Jalan Ampang as part of a joint trial project by Rapid Bus Sdn Bhd and Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL).

The trial will span six months and cover a 3km stretch according to The Star, running from the Risda building to the Jalan Tun Razak intersection during peak hours on weekdays (6am to 9am).

The initiative aims to reduce travel time by 10 minutes and encourage approximately 30,000 daily commuters to utilize the Jalan Ampang route.

Plans are also underway to extend the dedicated bus lane to serve evening peak hours from 5pm to 7pm.

In an interview with StarMetro, Rapid Bus CEO Muhammad Yazurin Sallij expressed the objective of reducing private vehicle usage in Kuala Lumpur from 50,000 to 40,000, while promoting public transport through the dedicated lane.

The fare for bus rides will be RM1.90 per trip, with the option for commuters to avail themselves of the MY50 monthly pass priced at RM50. If the trial proves successful, the dedicated bus lane will become a permanent feature.

During the trial period, 36 buses, including double-decker buses for Route 300 and DS01, as well as nine single-deck buses for Route 303, will be deployed along Jalan Ampang.

Rapid KL also has plans to enhance connectivity by introducing bus services for Jalan Genting Klang, Jalan Kelang Lama, and the Federal Highway.

The initiative aims to address the growing traffic congestion caused by an influx of vehicles entering Kuala Lumpur, with the ultimate goal of encouraging more people to use public transportation.

To facilitate seamless transfers, the Ampang Park LRT station will serve as a central hub for bus connections, allowing passengers to conveniently switch to the Putrajaya Line or Kelana Jaya Line.

Along the Ampang bus route, there will be seven stops, including Risda Building, 3 Towers, Gleneagles Hospital, Great Eastern Mall, Perkeso, Ampwalk Mall, and Proton Edar.

We were lucky enough to be given the opportunity to experience the Ford Ranger Raptor with both the V6 petrol and twin-turbodiesel powertrains and compare them back to back in the dramatic backdrop of Sa Pa in Vietnam, full of challenging mountainous terrain. Here’s what we came away with.

Only months have passed after the Ford Ranger Raptor with a petrol-powered, 3.0L turbocharged V6 engine was introduced to the Malaysian market for RM259,888, rocking the foundations with its unheard of output of 397PS and 583Nm of torque.

As a complement to that range-topper, the local launch of the 2.0L turbodiesel four-cylinder variant took place this month for RM248,888. Giving Malaysians two flavours of high-riding performance pickup truck, but separated by almost RM11,000. However, though it is worth mentioning that we drove the Thai-spec versions of the Raptors, their capabilities are identical.

The 2.0L variant offers an attractive alternative for off-roading enthusiasts who seek high performance and the long-legged fuel economy of a diesel. Meanwhile, the 3.0L V6 engine provides a noticeably different feel from under that bonnet, not to mention a sweet soundtrack.

The diesel clearly doesn’t have the lungs to keep up here but, as proven in the previous-generation Raptor, has ample torque and a character that seems to eager, even relentless, in its pulling capacity – it’s on-paper specifications of 210PS and 500Nm definitely do not tell the full story. There’s also a smoothness to the V6 that is beyond the diesel’s reach, if that’s a priority to you. The 10-speed automatic in both variants continue to be a superb shifter and we strongly recommend test driving them both to make your decision.

Visually, there are minimal differences between the Ranger Raptor 2.0 Bi-Turbo diesel and its petrol counterpart with the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine. Their exterior flourishes are nearly identical, the only obvious exception to this are the exhaust outlets present on the 3.0L petrol variant. Similarly, inside the vehicle, the diesel Raptor features the same interior design as the 3.0L V6 petrol version, including the distinctive orange accents.

Occupants of both enjoy a clear, vertically-oriented 12-inch touchscreen display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, hooked up to an 8-speaker Bang & Olufsen speaker system (in the Malaysian-spec). This aside, we were hard-pressed to differentiate the cabin experience as both Raptors seem to check all the boxes when it came to a balance of interior plushness with more than a tinge of sportiness, as well as a bevy of technology features.

During the test drive in Sa Pa, we encountered plenty of challenging terrain that allowed us to assess the off-road capabilities of the Ranger Raptor. The diesel Raptor has a single limited-slip differential on the rear axle, while the petrol version has both front and rear LSDs. In all honesty, we barely felt either variant lacking any traction on loose surfaces, at least insofar as the short courses provided to us by Ford.

Away from the closed off-road course sessions, driving conditions were mostly low-speed, with tight, twisty hillside roads and occasional slow drives through town. We’d love to have the 3.0L V6 version on test to really stretch its legs on a wide, empty stretch of highway but it looks like we’ll have to wait on that.

The same could be broadly said about the chassis performance, which are a very close match between that of the petrol and diesel version. The 3.0L petrol Raptor features Live Valve 2.5-inch internal bypass units from Fox, which are able to adjust damping rates much more rapidly, while the diesel version does not have this Live Valve feature. During off-road courses in Vietnam, the Live Valve-equipped petrol variant demonstrated slightly better ride quality and body control than the diesel version.

In terms of off-road capability and the utility of a rear bed, both the petrol and diesel variants of the Ranger Raptor continues to cater to buyers who desire enhanced off-road performance, particularly at higher speeds, fancying themselves hopping across the dunes like the Dakar racers that inspired it. While the diesel variant has a slightly lower payload rating, it makes up for that with its sheer endurance per tank. You’re likely to get double the range on the 2.0L versus the 3.0L before needing to refuel.

Considering the RM248,888 asking price for the diesel-powered Ranger Raptor and the RM259,888 price for the petrol version, that RM11k gulf is ultimately a small one. Therefore, the choice between the two may well depend buyer preference and its intended usage. Those who prioritise speed and a tuneful engine note should opt for the 3.0L V6 petrol, while those who frequently drive on highways but still appreciate the Ranger Raptor’s capable chassis should seriously consider the 2.0L Bi-Turbo diesel, especially with slight its price advantage.

For this writer, the 3.0L V6 variant of the Ranger Raptor offers a wholly unique driving experience that cannot be matched by any other rival in the local market, essentially distilling the core appeal of the larger F-150 Raptor (which uses a 3.5-litre V6) into a more agile, manoeuvrable package that’s almost entirely as capable.

One could always argue against the logic spending north of RM200k on a pickup truck and all the connotations that might entails. Still, for the same amount of money, there are scarcely few options that blend the opposing attributes of utility and performance quite so deftly, or quite so brashly. That alone deserves to be celebrated.

Weststar Maxus posted an interesting teaser video on its Instagram page and by the looks of it, we might see the arrival of the Maxus 9 EV MPV here in Malaysia soon.

The electrified Alphard competitor is known as the Maxus Mifa 9 in China’s domestic market and it has already made its appearance in Thailand earlier this year under the MG badge.

Sharing somewhat the same dimensions as the Toyota Alphard (apart from the Maxus 9 being slightly longer and wider, plus a longer wheelbase), it’ll be interesting to see how it’ll perform in terms of sales once it arrives here in Malaysia.

There are two different variants that are offered in Thailand – X Luxury and V Super Luxury. Just like the names, both variants are specced with some premium stuff like an all-LED lighting system, a couple of sunroofs, 19-inch wheels, automatic AC, 7-inch digital instrument cluster, 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, and more.

Power-wise, the Maxus 9 EV MPV is powered by a front electric motor that produces 245PS and 350Nm of torque. Paired with a 90kWh battery pack, it is said that the Maxus 9 can travel up to 540km (NEDC) before requiring a recharge.

When plugged into an 11kW AC charger, a full charge state can be achieved at around 8 hours and 30 minutes. The Maxus 9 also supports DC charging up to 120kW and when it is connected to one, 30% to 80% can be done in under 40 minutes.

As of now, we’re still in the dark in terms of launch date and expected pricing. Those living in Thailand can cop an MG Maxus 9 EV MPV with prices starting from 2,499,000 baht to 2,699,000 baht (around RM331k to RM358k). Certainly interesting, if you ask us.

 

Electric vehicles or EVs in Malaysia will be getting some added benefits in the coming years in the form of special number plates and cheaper road tax.

The announcement came from Malaysia’s Transport Minister himself, Anthony Loke, during the launch of the new GWM 4S centre in Seremban, Negeri Sembilan. As reported by NST, the new initiatives will hopefully get more people interested in jumping onto the EV bandwagon.

Starting with road tax, the new road tax price calculation that’ll be introduced in 2026 will be based on the kilowatt-based system. The total power rating of the electric motor/motors will be calculated as the final road tax amount within different brackets, just like ICE cars and the engine’s CC. In other words, the bigger and more powerful your EVs are, the more that you’ll have to pay for the road tax.

Right now, all EVs are enjoying the complimentary road tax that’ll end at the end of 2025. No specifics were shared by Loke regarding this new system, but he did assure us that it’ll be cheaper and more affordable than the current road tax prices for the current ICE cars.

Apart from this, a new number plate will be introduced just for EVs and you guessed it, it’ll start with EV1 to EV9999 followed by the following letters like EVA, EVB, and so on. The reasoning? These specialised plates will be linked using RFID tech for safety reasons.

Why? So that emergency responders can easily detect whether the car is an EV or not if they’re involved in any accidents. This way, it’ll be easier to handle the situation for the safety of everyone involved. Good move? Sure is.