Today, the first production model of the Infiniti Q50 has been rolled off the assembly line at the Tochigi production plant. The official off-line ceremony was presided over by Carlos Ghosn, President and CEO of Nissan Motor Co. Ltd., and Johan de Nysschen, President of Infiniti Motor Company Ltd.

The Q50 was premiered at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit back in January 2013. The Q50 is the first in the new generation of Infiniti vehicles. It sets fresh benchmarks in the areas of emotive styling, advanced technology and performance.

Ghosn paid tribute to the production team at Tochigi and underlined their reputation for industry-leading manufacturing expertise.

“Thanks to the skill and constant focus on performance improvement, Tochigi has a global reputation for producing top-quality vehicles. Year after year, Tochigi sets the benchmark for manufacturing quality standards,” he said.

“With the Q50, once again the Tochigi team has showcased their skill and expertise and proven the power of Japanese monozukuri.”

De Nysschen added that the Q50 was the opening salvo in Infiniti’s new product portfolio under the “Q” naming structure which was launched in December last year.

“The first Infiniti in our new line-up had to reflect the brand’s core values of seductive design, passionate attention to detail, precision in fit and finish, exhilarating performance and a provocative challenge to the status quo. The Q50 certainly does that,” he said.

“This is the first step in the launch of our exciting global expansion plan.”

Three-time Formula One World Champion, Sebastian Vettel, played an active role in the testing and evaluation programme of the Q50 in his capacity of Infiniti’s Director of Performance. Vettel will assist in shaping the performance dynamics of Infiniti’s future model line-up. 

“The first Q50 is coming off the line today so congratulations. I am glad I was involved in the development of the Q50 and I wish you a very good ‘birthday’ and success for the future,” he said in a congratulatory video message to the production team at Tochigi.

Striking design, a raft of breakthrough technologies such as Direct Adaptive Steering, and unprecedented levels of craftsmanship and performance are the distinctive qualities of the Q50.

For the Malaysian market, the local distributor – Inspired Motor Sdn Bhd has confirmed that they will be introducing the all new Q50 in Malaysia. Hence, stay updated with us.

The all-new Ford Kuga is set to shatter the myth that an SUV cannot be efficient, safe, high-tech and capable all at once. The Kuga will be launched in the second quarter of 2013 in Malaysia. The estimated selling price is around RM 168,000 on-the-road with insurance in Peninsular Malaysia for private owner. The pre-bookings started since 10 May 2013.

Ford’s newest SUV is the centrepiece of the company’s strategy to expand into one of the fastest-growing segments by offering high levels of fuel efficiency and safety, as well as segment-leading smart technologies and a surprising array of standard features. 

The all-new Ford Kuga’s other smart features include:- 

• 1.6L EcoBoost petrol engine with 132kW with 240Nm of torque
• Hands-free power liftgate opens with a wave of your foot beneath the rear bumper – no need to fumble for the key when your hands are full
• Ford’s Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, including exclusive Torque Vectoring Control for more precise handling
• Segment-first voice-activated Ford SYNC connectivity

“Customers today are chasing value-for-money and the all-new Ford Kuga delivers,” said David Westerman, regional manager, Asia Pacific, Ford Export & Growth Operations. “With the EcoBoost petrol engine standard in the all-new Kuga Titanium, customers now have even more reasons to consider the all-new Ford Kuga.” 

Apart from a range of new features and enhanced driving ability, the all-new Ford Kuga has much improved packaging and more interior space, which has been achieved with the same 2690mm wheelbase as the previous model, the Ford Escape. 

Much of this added space in the all-new Ford Kuga has been devoted to the rear passenger compartment and luggage area to ensure the SUV is a complete family vehicle during the week and has room enough to be a spacious lifestyle getaway vehicle at weekends.

The next Mazda 3 expected to debut 2014 is spied while doing some road test in Europe. The Mazda 3 prototype were wearing pattern camouflage but the Mazda’s Kodo design language can all been seen with the shapes and curves of the car.

The next generation of Mazda 3 front is expected to look very much like its siblings (Mazda 6, Mazda CX-5). As we can see there will be a prominent black grille and angled headlights to replace the current model’s smiley face look with a more serious look.

The above photo is a render impression of the how the next generation of Mazda 3 would look like based on the spied shots gathered.

The interior of the Mazda 3 share some design of the Mazda 6,CX5. However we also notice some similarity from  Mercedes-Benz A-Class and the BMW 2-series. The top of the dashboard is fitted with fairly large screen likely for entertainment and navigation system. The center console with hand brake area also features 2 dials ( one bigger and one smaller) likely to use to control the in car entertainment / navigation system. Overall, the new interior looks more premium than its competition in the segment (Example, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla Altis and etc).

The next generation of Mazda 3 will feature all the Skyactiv technology from Mazda as well as we do expect i-Stop and i-Eloop system to be fitted into certain models. 

Gallery : Mazda 3 2015 Spy Shots

About 50 years ago, the Porsche 911 made its debut at the Frankfurt International Auto Show (IAA). And just ten years later, the first 911 Turbo prototype was at the IAA. 40 years after the introduction of the first 911 Turbo, Porsche is now presenting the new generation 911 Turbo and Turbo S. New all-wheel drive, active rear axle steering, adaptive aerodynamics, full-LED headlights and the up to 560 hp flat six-cylinder engine with bi-turbo charging underscore the role of the new generation 911 Turbo as a circuit racing car, everyday car and technology platform.

Playing an equally crucial role are the entirely new chassis in lightweight design with a 100 mm longer wheelbase and larger 20-inch wheels. The PDCC active anti-roll system, which is being offered for the first time in 911 Turbo models, increases dynamic performance even more. This system is standard equipment in the 911 Turbo S, as is the Sport Chrono Package Plus with dynamic engine mounts and PCCB ceramic brakes; all of these features are also available as options in the 911 Turbo. The results: The new 911 Turbo S shortens the lap time for the North Loop of the Nürburgring to well under 7:30 minutes – naturally with standard production tyres. The standard sound symposer intensifies the driving experience. The car transmits induction sounds of the turbo engine to the passenger compartment via a speaker diaphragm.

The new top of the range Porsche 911 model is scheduled to arrive in Malaysian market in Q4 2013.

Photo Gallery: 2013 Porsche 911 Turbo / Turbo S

Volkswagen celebrates the fact that the Scirocco has broken through the magical sound barrier for a sports car of one million built vehicles in 2013. Hence, a special model of VW Scirocco is introduced exclusively in Germany and China.

The exclusive “Scirocco Million”, painted exclusively in “Deep Black Metallic ” can be recognised at first glance by its sporty accent strip, the exterior rear mirror caps painted in “Galvanic Grey” and its “Interlagos” 18-inch alloy wheels with 235/40 tyres that are also standard. For China market, it will be 17-inch wheels instead. The alloy wheels are delivered in combination with a tyre pressure control display. 19-inch alloy wheels of the “Lugano” type that are painted silver are also optionally available.

The other standard exterior customisation features include R-Line bumpers, R-Line side sills, smoked tail lights, “Million” stickers on the wings and rear windows that are 90% smoked in Germany, while 65% smoked in China due to regulations. In the interior, the special model features, among other things, a standard Vienna black leather seating with contrasting seams in “Snap Orange.” In sync with that: the black roof liner and the leather cover of the parking brake lever and gear lever gaiter (also with seams in “Snap Orange”). Floor mats with colour-contrasting chain-stitch seams, stainless steel pedals, entry plates with “Million” lettering and the accent strips made of brushed aluminium are likewise standard on board. The RCD 310 audio system provides the right sound and up-to-date information.

The Volkswagen “Scirocco Million” can be ordered with three different petrol engines (TSI) and two diesel engines (TDI). The TSI have output ratings of 90 kW / 122 PS, 118 kW / 160 PS and 155 kW / 210 PS; the TDIs develop 103 kW / 140 PS and 130 kW / 177 PS. With the exception of the 122 PS TSI, all engines can be combined with a dual clutch gearbox (DSG). The base price of the Scirocco Million will be 27,325 euros in Germany.

Like the Golf GTI, the Scirocco is a sporty icon. The first generation of the Coupé was launched in 1974. Seven years later, in 1981, the second generation of the Scirocco took off. It was built up to 1992. A total of 795,650 vehicles of the Scirocco I and II were built – a truly sporty world success. The comeback of the sports car came with the Scirocco III in 2008. The third generation is developing into a success model, too: Inside of just under five years, more than 204,350 fans the world over have opted for a new Scirocco – if we add generations I, II and III, we arrive at the one million vehicle mark we just mentioned. Volkswagen is celebrating this with a special edition: the Scirocco Million. The production of the special series will be started as early as the end of May 2013.

Photo Gallery: 2013 Volkswagen Scirocco Million

Toyota has challenged the odd by designing a concept car that combines four cars into one. The innovative Toyota ME.WE can be configured as a small city car, off-roader, ute and convertible, making it adaptable to a wide variety of lifestyles.

The 5-seat electric concept car is positioned as an intelligent “no frills” response to the ecological threats posed by mass production and the growth of the global car fleet.

A joint venture between Toyota and leading European industrial designer Jean-Marie Massaud, the car’s name reflects a simultaneous concern for individual freedom (ME) and responsibility towards society (WE).

The ME.WE uses materials that are lightweight, robust and recyclable – a tubular aluminium structure, body panels made from expanded polypropylene, and bamboo for the floor and dashboard.

Design concept of the interior, passengers always takes priority over luggage, which can be carried on the roof, protected by a neoprene cover. The rear luggage space can be extended, transforming it into a platform like that of a ute; the car can also provide the “wind-in-the-hair” experience of a cabriolet by opening all the windows, including the windscreen.

Instruments are limited to a single screen above the steering wheel that indicates vehicle speed, battery charge, trip information and navigation instructions delivered by a smart phone.The smart phone itself is mounted below the screen and allows occupants to create their own personal environment with music and other apps, as well as controlling the cabin air temperature.

Minimalist bench seats, also constructed from expanded polypropylene, can be removed and used for a picnic.
Simple design is matched by ease of use: it has an electric motor in each wheel like the recently unveiled Toyota i-ROAD and its batteries are located under the floor, as with the Toyota iQ electric car.

The ME.WE provides two or four-wheel drive, giving it the ability to cope effectively with different terrains, some of which may be inaccessible to a traditional car.

But it is much lighter than conventional 4×4 vehicles: Toyota says the Yaris-sized car could weigh as little as 750kg – a minimum weight saving of 20 per cent compared with a conventional car in its class. The body panels weigh just 14kg – a saving of around 180kg compared with the use of steel.

Expanded polypropylene is strong and has better thermal insulation properties, resulting in less use of the car’s electric heater and air-conditioning system. Toyota’s European design and development HQ, ED2, and Massaud, a noted architect and inventor, have pooled their expertise and used existing technologies to produce a realistic concept car.

Toyota says the project has enabled it to gain insights into the future of the automobile from the perspective of a non-automotive design studio. The cross-pollination of ideas and fresh perspectives are an important part of the creative process as Toyota seeks new solutions for better vehicles.

Collaboration with Massaud began in 2011. He said today’s cars have become an accumulation of constraints more than a source of freedom. “Our lives and needs require more adaptability, simplicity and lightness,” Massaud said. “The car of today should be seen as a personal mobility solution that can deliver more.”

Toyota has emphasised the inherent innovation of the ME.WE by unveiling the concept car in its Paris showroom – Le Rendez-vous Toyota on the famous Avenue des Champs-Élysées – rather than at a motor show. It will be on display until 12 June 2013, it is part of an exhibition showing other aspects of design including models, drawing tables and selected materials.

Unfortunately for people who love this concept as Toyota confirmed there are no plans for the ME.WE to enter production.

Photo Gallery: Toyota ME.WE Concept Car

BMW Group Malaysia recently announced its new achievement for the first quarter of 2013 for BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad in Malaysia. 

As of March 2013, BMW Group Malaysia delivered a total of 1,665 vehicles in the country, consisting of 1,482 BMW, 86 MINI and 97 BMW Motorrad vehicles, an increase of 9.8% compared to the total of 1,516 vehicles delivered during the same period in 2012. 

Commenting on the achievement, Dr. Gerhard Pils, Chief Executive Officer, BMW Group Malaysia said, “We are very pleased to announce our performance for the first quarter of 2013, which sets yet another benchmark for us here in the country. Since the start of the year, we have experienced positive growth which further emphasizes the strength of the business within the country and we look forward to another successful quarter in delivering the premium expression that can only be experienced with the brands represented by the BMW Group,” 

Since January 2013, BMW Group Malaysia has already introduced an array of new BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad models to spur the Malaysian premium segment. New introductions of the BMW 7 Series, the MINI One as well as the latest BMW F 700 GS, BMW F 800 GS and BMW HP4 motorcycles have continued to keep the premium automaker in the lead in the industry in the first quarter of the year. 

Most prominent in the new vehicle offering is BMW’s latest fleet of the ActiveHybrid 3 Series, 5 Series and 7 Series which reinforces the premium automaker’s commitment to BMW EfficientDynamics, the organisation’s sustainability strategy for the utilisation of Energy Efficient Vehicles (EEVs) in the country.

This week is a special week for MINI Malaysia as MINI have reintroduced the new MINI One for the Malaysian market.

Introducing the new MINI, Dr. Gerhard Pils, Chief Executive Officer of BMW Group Malaysia said, “MINI has always been a symbol of urban driving fun. Its indispensable element of EXCITEMENT promised in each model combined with its agile ‘go-kart’ handling and its most natural characteristic with cutting-edge efficiency have led to a very successful MINI story to date. From the very beginning, the MINI One’s success story has always been linked with cheekiness and performance; and the new MINI One has all this and more!”

With MINI’s authentic exterior design features and contemporary character, the new MINI One is also powered by a 1.6 litre 4-cylinder in-line engine with 6-speed automatic transmission, capable of delivering 72kW/ 98hp with 150Nm of torque. The new MINI also records a remarkable fuel efficiency reading with an average fuel consumption rate of 6.7 litres per 100km with CO2 emissions of only 156 grams per km.

The MINI One is available in Chilli Red or Pepper White colour. In addition, the car is equipped with 15” light alloy wheels with 5-Star Twin Spoke rims, the multifunction buttons, sport steering wheel, rain sensor and automatic lights control, radio MINI Boost and Bluetooth hands free kit with USB interface as standard.

The MINI Tender Loving Care (TLC) service package is available as an optional upgrade for RM4,088.00 which takes care of the MINI in terms of inspection and wear and tear repairs for 3 years or 50,000 KM, whichever comes first.  MINI TLC covers work such as engine oil changes; servicing of the air filter, micro filter, spark plugs and brake fluid; maintenance and servicing of brake pads and brake discs; maintenance and servicing of clutch in the event of wear and tear as well as replacement of windscreen wiper rubbers and blades. 

Lastly and most importantly, the new Mini One is selling at RM 146,888.00 on-the-road (w/o insurance) in Peninsular Malaysia. Are you tempted to buy this over the VW Beetle 1.2 TSI?

Today, Toyota Motor Corporation announced a special service campaign on certain Toyota models to address the issue of possible improper manufactured passenger side front airbag inflator that could cause rupture and deploy the airbag abnormally during a crash.

TMC has undertaken a special service campaign to replace the airbag inflator module for front side passenger in the interest of ensuring customers’ confidence and peace of mind.

For Malaysia, UMW Toyota Motor has received confirmation from our principal, TMC that there are approximately 18,700 units of Toyota Camry and Toyota Corolla Altis manufactured from year 2000 to 2003 which are involved in this Special Service Campaign in Malaysia.

Although there have not been any reported cases in Malaysia, UMW Toyota Motor will be conducting this campaign to ensure our customers’ vehicle remain reliable and trouble-free.

UMW Toyota Motor will contact all customers involved to carry out the necessary corrective measures at no cost. No other models sold by UMW Toyota Motor produced before year 2000 and after year 2003 are affected by this campaign.

Many may not know, based on the current tax structure for light commercial vehicles from Thailand, the Pickup Trucks are already enjoying zero import and excise duty in Malaysia.

If you are out there to buy a new Mitsubishi Triton, there is a special promotion called the “Big April Bonus” promotion by Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia with value up to RM 5,500. This promotion is valid exclusively for customers who book and register any Triton variant by 30 April 2013. 

With a starting on-the-road price (without insurance) from RM 64,053.80, the Triton full range consists of the Triton Single Cab, Triton VGT 2.5-litre 4×4 Automatic, 2.5-litre 4×4 Automatic and Manual, Triton LITE Turbo 2.5-litre 4×2 Manual.

Owners who book the Mitsubishi Triton get to enjoy a 3-year/100,000 km warranty as well as Mitsubishi’s 2-Year Free Maintenance program. To date, the Triton has found close to 40,000 proud owners in Malaysia.