The year isn’t ending quietly. Just before 2021 calls it a day, a new entrant to the SUV market in Malaysia shows up. The latest model to play in our compact SUV segment is the GAC GS3. Distributed by WTC Automotif (M) Sdn Bhd, a Tan Chong company, the B-segment GS3 comes fully imported from GAC of Guangzhou. There are however, plans for local assembly of the GS3 as well as other GAC models.
The GS3 wears GAC’s latest design language i.e. Flying Dynamic Wing 3.0. The front grille features subtle chrome strips that connect the projector headlamps, while the lower bumper cladding links the fog lamps. The blackened D-pillar gives the appearance of a floating roof that tapers to a subtle rear spoiler to add a bit of sporty styling. The slim tail lamps are LED units.
The interior also has a similar floating design with its horizontal dashboard. The wide buttons under the 8″ infotainment touchscreen display give the dash a neat look. The GS3 also comes with a sporty 3-spoke multi-function steering wheel wrapped in leatherette.
The GAC GS3 claims to have one of the widest cabins in the compact SUV class at 1,500 mm, with impressive legroom and shoulder room for rear passengers. The rear seats are also ergonomically shaped for optimal thigh support. Furthermore, there are no less than 25 storage spaces in the cabin, to complement the 356 litres of cargo space in the rear, which can be expanded by folding down the 60:40 rear seats.
Powering the GS3 is a 1.5L 4-cylinder engine equipped with Dual-CVVT and GAC-patented combustion control technology for enhanced combustion efficiency. The engine produces 114 PS and 150 Nm of torque and is mated to an Aisin 6-speed automatic transmission with adaptive intelligent control. The official average fuel consumption is 6.9 litres per 100 km (14.5 km/l), based on the combined NEDC cycle.
Safety equipment includes 6 airbags, Blind Spot Detection, Electronic Stability Control, Emergency Stop Signal, Rear View Camera, Seatbelt Warning for all passengers, ISOFIX child seat mounts and a Climate Control System with PM2.5 filtration for an odour-free cabin.
“We at WTC Automotif are proud and honoured to be chosen to represent one of the most dynamic automotive brands in China. Malaysian car buyers are now able to experience GAC vehicles that are renowned for their design, comfort and build quality, starting with the all-new GAC GS3 B-segment SUV,” said Tan Keng Meng, CEO of Warisan TC Holdings Bhd. “The GS3 is a global model sold in 25 other countries and it arrives in Malaysia as a fully imported vehicle, with Malaysia being the first country to launch the RHD model. However, we are working closely with GAC International to kick start the local assembly programme for the GS3 and other models. WTCA has already set up a dedicated showroom for GAC in the heart of Kuala Lumpur and plans to expand beyond the Klang Valley region very soon”.
Mr. Zeng HeBin, President of GAC International said: “We anticipate that there will be a strong interest in this newly launched GAC GS3 SUV as it will appeal to Malaysian car buyers with its blend of dynamic styling, first-class safety and comfort, fuel efficiency as well as refined performance. We, at GAC International are also pleased and honoured to partner WTC Automotif (M) Sdn Bhd and the Warisan Group in the distribution of the GAC Brand in Malaysia”.
The GAC GS3 is available in 2 different grades with 4 exterior colour choices i.e. Lunar Grey, Ivory White, Starlight Silver and Rosefinch Red. Prices start from RM88,000 for the Standard variant, and RM96,800 for the Premium variant (on-the-road prices without insurance, for private registration, and 50% Sales Tax Reduction).
The first GAC showroom is located at Lot 72, Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah 51200 Kuala Lumpur, and it is ready to take bookings for the GS3. Test drives are also available at the showroom.
UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has turned its Shah Alam facility into a flood command centre, organising the donation of basic necessities to the flood victims. Its staff had also started going to the flood affected communities on 24 December to offer help with the clearing and cleaning of flooded homes. This initiative was also supported by the Raja Muda of Selangor Foundation in providing guidance and support on the mechanics to a ensure smooth process in handling this situation.
According to UMWT, its staff volunteers will continue this assistance for as long as it is needed, where and when possible. “I am extremely grateful for this timely assistance in easing our burden as well as helping us to regain a sense of normalcy,” said Rosli bin Hassan, 62, a flood victim in Padang Jawa.
To ramp up aid relief efforts for the future, the company has also decided to enable its Toyota headquarters in Shah Alam to be converted into a ‘Command Centre’. It will function as a soup kitchen and relief distribution centre for victims in the event of a similar tragedy in the future.
“UMW Toyota Motor stands in solidarity with the community. Malaysians have been going through an extremely challenging period due to the flood and we want to do what we can to provide some relief. We express our sincerest sympathies to all the victims and families affected and we hope that our initiatives will be of some help,” said President of UMW Toyota Motor, Ravindran. K.
“We were also inspired and moved by the compassion of the many Malaysians who have volunteered to help out their fellow countrymen, including our group of staff volunteers. We realised that response and relief efforts were slow to take place. Hence, we decided that even for future, we will immediately convert our Shah Alam facility into a flood ‘Command Centre’ to provide kindhearted Malaysians a safe place to deliver and sort out the relief items before distributing to the surrounding temporary evacuation centres.”
To give added peace of mind to flood victims, vehicle owners are welcome to park their vehicles in the premise regardless of make and model*.
Further, the company has distributed basic household necessities including stoves, fans and kettles to affected households to alleviate some of their burden. “We would like to take this opportunity to convey our heartfelt gratitude towards our suppliers namely Toyota Suppliers Club Malaysia, DENSO Malaysia, Toyota Tsusho and Sime Kansai for stepping up and also providing financial support to our endeavours. This contribution were used to buy household appliances and other necessities to be given as aid to the flood victims,” he added.
In addition to giving aid to the local communities, UMW Toyota Motor is also providing assistance to its own workforce affected by the flood. This includes repairs for personal vehicles registered under the affected staff, financial aid, as well as distribution of basic household necessities.
We commend UMWT on this initiative and commitment, although we hope that such unfortunate circumstance will not happen again.
*Available for the first 100 vehicles only; a signed indemnity is required.
Roy Chew signs the new Scania coaches to the Ecolution partnership.
Super Nice Express was the first express coach service in the northern region to sign up for the Scania Ecolution partnership back in 2020. Since then, it had registered positive results in fuel savings for its first 14 Scania coaches. As a result, it had decided to expand the Ecolution partnership with Scania with the purchase of another 10 coaches.
Heba officially handed over the coaches to Joshua at the new Scania Malaysia Senai Sales and Services Centre.
The 10 long distance buses are made up of 4 new Scania K360IB4x2 coaches and 6 refurbished pre-owned units (Scania K360IB4x2 – 4 units; Scania K310IB4x2 – 2 units), and are financed by Scania Credit Malaysia.
“Super Nice is one of the key players in the north to spur the express coach market and the passenger transportation industry into an upward momentum leading towards a quicker economic recovery. This momentum is supported by Scania total solutions, leading to better profitability and sustainability for their company,” said Heba El Tarifi, Managing Director, Scania Southeast Asia.
SuperNice Express is the brand name of Express Senibudaya (M) Sdn Bhd, which is a subsidiary of Unimax Group of Companies.
Scania Ecolution is a tailor-made partnership between Scania and its customers focusing on the reduction of fuel consumption that will result in reducing CO2 emissions. The partnership also focuses on reducing operating cost, translating to improved profitability while fulfilling the growing demand for environmental-friendly initiatives.
“The fact that we kept our coaches moving within the state through the COVID-19 EMCO kept the express bus sector going and gave our Ecolution partnership with Scania a chance to work; producing positive Ecolution results that motivated us to invest in a further 10 Scania coaches with Scania Ecolution. Scania Ecolution really works in lowering our fuel consumption, increase profitability while reducing our carbon footprint,” commented Joshua Tan, Group Managing Director, Unimax Group.
All 24 Scania coaches operated by Super Nice come with the standard Opticruise gearbox, air suspension, front and rear Electronic Braking System, retarder and a 3-fire alarm sensor. These features have elevated the SuperNice Scania coaches as the first choice for passengers for a comfortable and safe ride, and giving them very good value-for money experience.
“Scania continues to build profitable and sustainable partnerships with its customers. We would like to thank Mr Roy (Chew, the Group Chairman, Unimax Group) and Mr Joshua for believing in the Scania brand and keeping their faith in Scania’s Sustainable Transport Solutions. With the opening of the state borders, SuperNice is looking at a further increase in business from the Southern region of Malaysia and Scania is committed to support SuperNice all the way,” added Heba.
Furthermore, with the flexible Scania financing solutions, Super Nice will benefit from having predictable costs over the entire lifecycle of the coaches. Scania Credit is a one-stop provider that is focused on giving its customers tailored and sustainable financial packages that best suit their business needs. Scania Credit also offers insurance solutions to help minimise any financial loss and handling of damages, while optimising vehicle uptime. This will allow Super Nice to leverage on the available credit facilities offered so that it can use its cash for other investments, and maintain a steady cashflow for its operations.
GoCar is offering assistance to the victims of the recent flooding. Through its flood relief programme, the GoCar Garage service is offering 25% discount on parts and labour for those who need car servicing and maintenance. This offer is effective now until 31 January 2022.
Malaysia’s leading on-demand mobility-as-a-service platform is also offering free use of a GoCar Share vehicle for up to 14 days while the flood-affected car in at its service centre.
“With the recent extreme floods adding to the continued impact of the pandemic, we hope that this flood assist programme will help provide some added relief and savings to our customers and those in need of quality car servicing and maintenance. GoCar Garage customers can also be assured of OEM-level service excellence and trained technicians,” said Wong Hoe Mun, CEO of GoCar Malaysia.
This additional assistance is provided to help alleviate concerns about finances and accessibility to safe private transportation. Applicable to all passenger vehicle makes and models, including pickup trucks, this service is currently available only at the GoCar Garage PJ Service Centre in Jalan Kemajuan, Section 13. Customers can be assured that GoCar Malaysia will also assist with arrangements in the event any vehicle needs to be towed to the Garage.
For those who need a car for a longer duration than 14 days, they can opt for a subscription with 50% savings on selected GoCar Subs vehicles. Both options are subject to availability and apply only to customers who sign up for the GoCar Flood Relief Programme.
Additionally, customers who are Maybank users can also take advantage of the Maybank Ezy Payment Plan to help ease their financial load as they will be able to fulfil their payments for service and maintenance work in monthly instalments.
For added peace of mind and to ensure there are no hidden charges or surprise costs, GoCar Garage will provide transparent pricing structures and upfront quotations for customers to pre-approve before any job begins.
Download the GoCar mobile app to schedule and confirm your service appointments, select or request required services, and make payment anytime and from anywhere.
For details on this campaign, contact GoCar at 1-300-30-2633.
For more information about GoCar Garage and GoCar Malaysia, visit https://hi.gocar.my.
There is a flood relief program for Mitsubishi vehicles particularly in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and Pahang that were affected by the recent flood. Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) is offering a 30% discount on Mitsubishi genuine spare parts, and a 50% discount on labour costs from now until 20 January 2022 for vehicles damaged by flood.
In addition, Mitsubishi Motors will also support owners by offering FREE towing service. All you need to do is to contact the Mitsubishi Assist 24Hrs customer careline (MA24) at 1-800-88-2166 to request for this service.
You can also arrange for your own vehicle towing, without the assistance of MA24 and insurance coverage, and will still be entitled to rebates worth up to RM300. However, you need to make sure to lodge a police
report beforehand and then have your vehicle towed to the nearest Mitsubishi Motors service centre.
“Our thoughts are with Malaysians impacted by the aftermath of the flash floods tragedy. All of our service staff and authorised dealers are ready to assist our Mitsubishi owners with their affected vehicles. We hope that this flood relief program will help ease the burden of our customers going through this difficult time,” said Shinya Ikeda, Chief Executive Officer of MMM.
The Mitsubishi flood relief program is offered for all vehicles purchased from Mitsubishi Motors authorised dealers. For further information, please call the Customer Careline (1-800-18-8161).
Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd (ETCM) and Tan Chong Ekspres Auto Servis Sdn Bhd (TCEAS) is extending free towing service (T&C apply), including door-to-door towing for Nissan vehicles that are badly affected by the flood, as well as a Collect & Deliver service for the usual maintenance service over the weekends.
Nissan owners are requested to contact the Nissan Customer Care Centre Hotline (1800-88-3838) for further assistance, or to call your nearest TCEAS outlet for an appointment.
Nissan vehicle owners affected by the flood are eligible for the special Nissan Flood Relief Assistance programme. This programme offers 20% discount on parts and labour charges for the affected Nissan vehicles. In addition, special upholstery restoration prices are available at RM1,655 nett for sedans and RM1,988 nett for MPV, SUV, pick-up and vans respectively.
Further, Nissan owners can opt for the Easy Payment Plan (EPP) for up to 12 months to spread the bill. There is also a 6 months or 10,000 km mileage warranty (whichever comes first) on Nissan Genuine Parts replacement.
ETCM and TCEAS are deeply saddened by the losses suffered because of the flooding. Both parties want to assure their customers that their safety and satisfaction are of high priority.
Honda Malaysia has announced a Flood Relief Programme to provide aid to Honda customers whose cars*1 were affected by the recent floods. The company will offer the affected Honda car owners a 25% discount on genuine parts under this programme.
The Flood Relief Programme supports the repair services for affected Honda customers at the flood-stricken areas and the programme is running from now until 31 January 2022. Affected customers are advised to visit any Honda authorised dealership for assessment process and inspection service.
“We are deeply saddened by the floods that have inundated several states in Malaysia, which resulted in the evacuation of many people from their homes and caused significant damage to their properties and motor vehicles. Striving to be a company society wants to exist, we continue to look for ways to help the communities around us who are in need. We hope that with the rolling out of this Flood Relief Programme, we can help to relieve the burden of our valued customers. Our thoughts and prayers are with the people who are affected by the floods, and we hope everyone continues to stay safe during these challenging times,” said Honda Malaysia Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Madoka Chujo.
Further, Honda customers who subscribed to Honda Insurance Plus (HiP) can enjoy free inspection*2 for their cars to ensure that the cars are safe to drive and in good running condition, especially after the floods. In addition to providing towing service for cars damaged by the floods to the nearest Honda authorised dealership, HiP customers are entitled to receive flood allowance of up to RM1,500*2 to alleviate their burden. At the same time, Honda Malaysia is working closely with the insurance companies to expedite the claim process for affected customers.
Honda Insurance Plus (HiP) emphasises 3 pillars – Rescue, Protection and Savings, in line with Honda Malaysia’s commitment to providing peace of mind and protection for all Honda car owners and their cars through a comprehensive coverage. It also comes with roadside assistance where the rescue teams are always ready to assist and help customers at anytime and anywhere.
For more information on the Flood Relief Programme and HiP, customers can call Honda Malaysia’s Toll-Free number at 1-800-88-2020 or log on to Honda Malaysia official website at www.honda.com.my.
*1 Only applicable for cars purchased from Honda authorised dealerships.
To support Daihatsu van or truck owners severely affected by the recent flood, Daihatsu (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (DMSB) is running a special flood relief program across Malaysia.
The Daihatsu Flood Relief Program is open to all Daihatsu vehicles affected and damaged by the flooding. Between 22 December 2021 and 28 February 2022, all authorised Daihatsu service centres will attend to both individual SME owners as well as corporate fleets.
The company is deeply saddened and concerned not only over the well-being of those hit by the disaster. Nevertheless, businesses have to quickly move into the recovery process as the logistics and transportation sectors are essential to the economy. For some of the owners, especially the SME, having their vehicle off the road for a period of time would have a significant impact on livelihoods. “All things considered, our Daihatsu Flood Relief Program aims to prioritise safety of all our users so as to increase fleet uptime in running an efficient operation and ensuring business remains profitable,” said Arman Mahadi, Managing Director of Daihatsu Malaysia Group.
Daihatsu Flood Relief Program
Daihatsu is offering all affected owners a Towing Service Subsidy of up to RM100* per vehicle, to the nearest authorised Daihatsu service centre (terms and conditions apply).
Other forms of assistance for eligible owners include discounts of up to 40% for selected Daihatsu Genuine Parts* and 20% for Labour Services. All vehicles will also be given a free inspection to check for road-worthiness.
Selected Daihatsu genuine spare parts replacement performed on any engine and transmission overhauling comes with a manufacturer’s warranty of 1 year or 20,000 km* (whichever comes first).
For additional convenience, DMSB is deploying the Daihatsu Mobile Service team to provide onsite vehicle servicing at customers’ convenience. You can request for the service team to be at a specific place and time but this is subject to availability and the team’s area of coverage.
Furthermore, DMSB is also an authorised dealer for HINO vehicles so it can also serve affected owners who are also be eligible for the Hino Flood Relief Assistance initiated by Hino Motors Sales (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd.
Arman added, “We are committed to providing every possible aid to our customers, keeping in mind that every solution offered is reliable and efficient in their best interest. All authorised Daihatsu service centres will remain in operation during this crucial time, providing optimum access to owners who are in need of our assistance.”
Flood impacted Daihatsu owners should call the Daihatsu Road Assist toll free line at 1-300-88-3667 for towing assistance or 03-5512 3411 for Daihatsu Mobile Service.
Alternatively, you can call the customer hotline (03-5512 5824) or (011-2689 5133 – En. Muhammad Sobri) for further assistance.
Motosikal dan Enjin Nasional Sdn Bhd (MODENAS) is running the “Kempen Servis Prihatin MODENAS” to offer assistance to all MODENAS motorcycle owners, old or new, that have been severely damaged by the recent flash floods in Selangor and Pahang.
The company hopes that this campaign will provide MODENAS owners with some help and a chance in restoring their motorcycles back to working condition.
Some of the services offered under the Emergency Flood Relief Service Campaign are:
Free labor charges for normal repairs (without overhaul)
Free Inspection
Free bike cleaning
Up to 25% discount on all moped, streetbike and sports tourer parts
Up to 15% discount on scooter parts
Up to 70% discount on labor charge for repairs that involves overhaul
Owners of bikes affected by the flood can check in to the following MODENAS service centres:
MODENAS SERVICE CENTRE (SHAH ALAM, SELANGOR)
Address: No.62 & 64 Jalan Pluto Ay, Seksyen U5 40150 Shah Alam,Selangor
Operating Hours: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Contact: 04-4668160
MODENAS SERVICE CENTRE (KUANTAN, PAHANG)
Address: No A149, Lorong Seri Teruntum 8, Jalan Dato Wong Ah Jang, Taman Tunas Maju, 25200 Kuantan, Pahang
Operating Hours: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Contact: 09-5123380 /044668199
The service campaign will be running from now until 31 December 2021 at the selected service centres.
For further information, please contact any authorised MODENAS service centre or call the MODENAS Careline (1-800-880-181) or WhatsApp (019-570 8135).
Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) is offering support to VW owners who are affected by the recent flood. It is reducing cost of parts and labour by 30% for the necessary repair works. Affected Volkswagen owners are encouraged to download the new Volkwagen Cares app and redeem the flood relief support voucher. This support is available from now until 28 February 2022 at all Volkswagen authorised service centres.
“All of us at VPCM are deeply saddened by the flash floods that struck Malaysia over the weekend. Our thoughts are with those who are impacted and are facing loss and damages in the aftermath. We hope that our assistance will help to relieve the burden of our owners during this difficult time,” said Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM.
To further alleviate the financial burden that many may be facing, there is also an easy payment plan where owners have the option to spread out their bill over 6 or 12 months at 0% interest rate (T&C apply).
Please contact the nearest Volkswagen authorised service centre for more information and to learn about the terms and conditions.
“We at WTC Automotif are proud and honoured to be chosen to represent one of the most dynamic automotive brands in China. Malaysian car buyers are now able to experience GAC vehicles that are renowned for their design, comfort and build quality, starting with the all-new GAC GS3 B-segment SUV,” said Tan Keng Meng, CEO of Warisan TC Holdings Bhd. “The GS3 is a global model sold in 25 other countries and it arrives in Malaysia as a fully imported vehicle, with Malaysia being the first country to launch the RHD model. However, we are working closely with GAC International to kick start the local assembly programme for the GS3 and other models. WTCA has already set up a dedicated showroom for GAC in the heart of Kuala Lumpur and plans to expand beyond the Klang Valley region very soon”. 
Mr. Zeng HeBin, President of GAC International said: “We anticipate that there will be a strong interest in this newly launched GAC GS3 SUV as it will appeal to Malaysian car buyers with its blend of dynamic styling, first-class safety and comfort, fuel efficiency as well as refined performance. We, at GAC International are also pleased and honoured to partner WTC Automotif (M) Sdn Bhd and the Warisan Group in the distribution of the GAC Brand in Malaysia”.
The first GAC showroom is located at Lot 72, Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah 51200 Kuala Lumpur, and it is ready to take bookings for the GS3. Test drives are also available at the showroom.
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