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Cycle & Carriage has entered into a partnership with Stellantis Malaysia to retail automotive brands from this global group. Stellantis, formed in 2021 from the merger of PSA Group and Fiat Chrysler has 14 brands sold around the world. Cycle & Carriage, with a distinguished 125-year history in Malaysia, will start off this partnership carrying the Peugeot brand. This collaboration is a significant milestone in Cycle & Carriage’s history as it begins retailing Stellantis brands and supporting Stellantis Malaysia’s multi-brand and multi-segment strategies. This partnership also aligns with Cycle & Carriage’s growth objectives and its commitment to provide ‘exceptional journeys’ for Malaysian customers. Cycle & Carriage_Stellantis_Agreement_Thomas Tok_Jamie Francis Morais

Leveraging its extensive network and expertise, Cycle & Carriage has the experience to provide exceptional service in vehicle ownership. As the principal partner, Stellantis Malaysia offers Cycle & Carriage the opportunity to retail multiple brands under one roof, increasing market reach and profitability.

“We are excited to embark on a new chapter with Stellantis Malaysia, to offer customers an expanded product lineup, coupled with Cycle & Carriage’s expertise in automotive backed by our 125-year history. This aligns with our strategy to deliver exceptional journeys to a broader customer base, expand our market reach, and drive shareholder value. We truly believe that existing and future customers will greatly benefit from this collaboration, offering easy access to a wider range of quality products based on their needs and quality services even after point of purchase,” said Thomas Tok, CEO of Cycle & Carriage. PEUGEOT_Lion_Badge_Logo

Stellantis is the world’s 4th-largest automaker and mobility provider. Stellantis Malaysia, established on 1 March 2024, is responsible for managing the marketing, sales, and aftersales services of the Peugeot brand in Malaysia. “Today marks a significant milestone for Stellantis Malaysia, and we are thrilled to welcome our new dealer partner to our growing network. This is a testament to our commitment to delivering exceptional service and expanding our reach to better serve our valued customers. Cycle & Carriage’s reputation for excellence aligns perfectly with our values and we look forward to setting the new standards in the industry to provide unparalleled customer experience,” stated Jamie Morais, Managing Director of Stellantis Malaysia.

This collaboration is part of Stellantis Malaysia’s broader dealer expansion strategy to strengthen its brand presence in Malaysia and ensure accessible, top-quality service nationwide. Cycle & Carriage will start off this collaboration with 3 showrooms i.e. Cheras, Batu Caves, and Georgetown, Penang to showcase Peugeot vehicles by Q4 of 2024. There are plans for further expansion, including to the southern region by 2025, as well as to expand the portfolio with other Stellantis brands. Both parties are already in partnership in the region i.e. Singapore and Vietnam.

Reflecting on the partnership, Thomas Tok added, “This new chapter with Stellantis Malaysia is truly a testament of Cycle & Carriage’s commitment towards providing our customers exceptional journeys and adds to our rich automotive heritage in Malaysia. With a history of representing multiple automotive brands, we are excited to once again showcase further growth as a brand and look forward to serving Malaysians better in the near future with this expansion”.

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Naza Eastern Motors Sdn Bhd has officially launched the 5-door variant of the iconic Suzuki Jimny in Malaysia as part of the company’s strategic growth plans in the local SUV market.

“The introduction of the 5-door Jimny underscores our commitment to diversifying our product portfolio with profitable niche models that meet evolving automotive trends. This move aligns with our broader strategy to solidify our market presence and cater to the increasing demand for compact, versatile SUVs in Malaysia,” commented Naza Automotive Group CEO Rizal Jailan. 2024 Suzuki Jimny 5 Door

Rizal noted that the SUV segment has seen substantial growth in the past decade, with models like the Jimny resonating strongly with customers, along with the Suzuki Swift Sport, for the company. He also pointed out that this launch is more than just a product introduction as it is a strategic move to get a piece of the SUV market. The company has set a sales target of 100 units of the 5-door Jimny within the first year.

“Our goal is to continuously offer products that are tailored to the local market. The 5-door Jimny is a perfect example of how we integrate customer feedback and market research into our product development strategy,” commented Naza Eastern Motors’ Chief Operating Officer, Mohamad Irwan Shahril.

The new 5-door Suzuki Jimny is fitted with a 1.5L engine that delivers 101 hp paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission and connected to the advanced ALLGRIP PRO 4WD system. This drivetrain offers exceptional off-road capability, allowing drivers to switch between 2H, 4H, and 4L modes to adapt to various driving conditions.

The 5-door Jimny also features modern amenities such as a touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control, and advanced safety features including 6 airbags, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, Brake Limited Slip Differential, Hill Hold Control, Hill Descent Control, Side-Impact Door Beams, 3-point Emergency Locking retractor Seatbelts, ISOFIX Child Seat anchorages, Seatbelt Pretensioner, and Rear View Camera, and Idle Stop-Start.

Built with a longer wheelbase on an adapted ladder frame, it has increased cabin space compared to the 3-door variant and offers enhanced practicality without sacrificing its off-road prowess. The 5-door Jimny has an overall length of 3,850 mm (vs 3-door @ 3,550 mm). That translates to an additional 300 mm of space, for additional legroom and luggage room in the rear. The vehicle’s design incorporates LED projector headlamps with washers, optimised bumpers, and a robust body-on-frame construction that ensures durability and a solid driving experience. The interior is kept minimalistic with basic black shades to avoid distractions. Silver trim is used to highlight functional elements.

To grow its presence further, Naza Eastern Motors is expanding its dealership network, with a new branch opening in Penang in September, as well as additional dealerships planned for Batu Caves, Kuantan, and Kuching. This expansion is part of Naza’s effort to enhance accessibility and provide better service to its  customer base across Malaysia.

The Suzuki Jimny 5-door is imported from India and comes with a starting price of RM199,380 (on-the-road without insurance). Prices can vary depending on the type of exterior paint scheme.

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Scania has delivered its first double decker coaches equipped with ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) to Super Nice Express. Two units of these Scania coaches were handed over to Mr Roy Chew, Chairman of Super Nice Group by Ms Joyce Antar, Managing Director of Scania Southeast Asia at a ceremony that was also attended by YB Anthony Loke, Minister of Transport. Scania_Double Deck Coach_ADAS_Handover_Super Nice Express

Super Nice had ordered a total of 4 units of the Scania K410EB6X2 double-deck coach with ADAS to add to its fleet. The ADAS features in these coaches are Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Advanced Emergency Braking (AEB) which are key to reducing the risk of accidents on the road.  Scania_ADAS_Camera_Coach

Working together with ADAS are the Electronic Braking System (EBS) with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Traction Control. Furthermore, the ergonomic design ensures that the driver has good visibility as well as all the controls within reach for extra safety and driveability. Additionally, Scania offers an efficient transmission with seamless shifting as well as a suspension set-up optimised for passenger comfort.

“Scania’s double-deck chassis equipped with ADAS ensures that Super Nice continues to be at the forefront of technology. Our passengers will enjoy the best in safety, comfort and reliability,” commented Mr Chew.

These coaches are configured with a Business Class section in the lower deck with extra wide seats, personal entertainment screens with Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports as well as headphones. In the lower deck are also a pantry and a toilet.

The 4 Scania coaches for Super Nice also comes with 2 years Inclusive Maintenance, 2 years of Scania Assistance and 10 years of Scania Fleet Management. This purchase is also supported by Scania’s Financial Services solution.

“We understand the challenges of managing business especially when it comes to ensuring the best safety. That is why we designed our Financial Services to make it easier for Super Nice to own the best technology available from Scania,” said Mr Anson Phua, Country Manager, Scania Credit Malaysia and Singapore.

Scania’s vision and mission in driving the shift towards a sustainable transport system with safer and smarter mobility is in line with the Malaysia Road Safety Plan 2022 – 2030 which targets to reduce road accident fatalities by 50% by the end of 2030.

“Road safety can be enhanced in several ways; general knowledge, improvement in infrastructure, driver behaviour, vehicle specification and inspection, just to mention a few. Safety features developed to mainly support the driver to avoid an accident, but also minimise the traffic casualties in case of an accident. Therefore, I would like to applaud both Scania and Super Nice Express for the continued strong and sustainable partnership,” said YB Anthony Loke.Super Nice Express_Double Deck Coach_Scania_ADAS

Ms Antar shared, “We are continuously developing our offering to meet current and future demands in each market where we are present. Safety is a part of Scania’s purpose to drive the shift towards a more sustainable transport system. We are driving the development and as road safety is high on the agenda in Malaysia, ADAS is an offering that is and continues to be of importance for our market. Features that today are available from Scania have proven to be effective in reducing traffic accidents and casualties.”

Super Nice has been in a partnership with Scania for over 9 years, and has a fleet of 27 Scania units. It is also the first express coach operator in the northern region of Malaysia to sign an Ecolution partnership with Scania to reduce carbon emissions. Super Nice is also the first to receive the single-deck coach with ADAS, in 2022.

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smart Malaysia has added a new location to its smart Tour Brand Roadshow, following the good reception at Pavilion Bukit Jalil and Setia Alam Convention Centre (EVx). The roadshow will now make a stop at Bangsar Shopping Centre (31 July to 4 August 2024) at the main concourse on the ground floor. smart #3_Side

The smart Tour Brand Roadshow is a nationwide showcase designed to bring the smart #1 and #3 vehicles closer to potential customers. This event offers in-depth information and live demonstrations of the advanced features of these vehicles, including Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capabilities and the functionalities of the Hello smart app. smart #3_Brabus

Anyone interested in exploring the world of electric vehicles (EV) are invited to join and experience the technology and performance of the smart #1 and #3 Pro, Premium, and BRABUS models.

The roadshow features BRABUS Fever specials, offering deals worth up to RM30,000 on the smart #1 BRABUS. Visitors will also benefit from valuable insights provided by experts about the smart ecosystem and have the opportunity to participate in test drives.

The on-the-road prices of the smart #1 Pro, Premium, and BRABUS are RM169,000, RM209,000 and RM249,000 respectively. For smart #3, the prices are RM175,000, RM215,000 and RM255,000 respectively.

One key differentiating feature of smart’s vehicles to other EV brands is the integration of the publicly available charging infrastructure into the user interface of the car’s infotainment unit as well as in the Hello smart app. smart_EV Charging Network_Map_Malaysia

smart Malaysia has partnered with 6 Charging Point Operators (CPOs) i.e. Carput Zap, ChargEV, ChargeSini, DC Handal, Gentari and JomCharge to provide smart owners with access to up to 80% of nationwide charging stations with real-time charging information, as well as a single platform for payment at any of these charging points. smart #1 Brabus_Cockpit_Steering_Infotainment

After Bangsar, the smart Tour Brand Roadshow will be at Gurney Plaza, Penang (4 – 8 September) and Mid Valley South Key, Johor Bahru (19 – 22 September).

Besides checking out the smart electric vehicles at smart Tour Brand Roadshow, you can also contact your preferred authorised smart dealer to learn more about the smart #1 and #3. For more information, please visit https://my.smart.com/#/. smart #1 Brabus_Side

 

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Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has announced a new appointment in its senior leadership team. Nadia Trimmel officially assumed her role as Vice President of Marketing & Sales for Mercedes-Benz Cars Malaysia & SEA II on 1 July 2024.

Trimmel’s extensive background in the automotive industry and her proven track record with Mercedes-Benz position her as a key player in driving the company’s marketing and sales strategies in the region. She joined Mercedes-Benz in 2014 as General Manager Sales and quickly advanced to become Managing Director of Mercedes-Benz Vans South Africa within 2 and a half years. Her tenure at Mercedes-Benz South Africa was marked by her integral role on the Executive Committee since 2017, and her leadership in transitioning the market to the innovative Retail of the Future sales model in 2018.Mercedes-Benz Cars Malaysia & SEA II_Vice President, Marketing & Sales_Nadia Trimmel

“Taking on this new role, I am thrilled to join the SEA II executive team and I look forward to contributing towards shaping our strategy within the vibrant automotive landscape in Malaysia and the greater SEA II region. I look forward to collaborating with the team, our retail partners, and various stakeholders to strengthen our market position through innovative sales strategies and customer-centric marketing initiatives. It is an exciting time to be at the forefront of change with the recent implementation of our new sales operating model, Retail of the Future. I am confident that together, we will establish new standards of success for Mercedes-Benz in the region, whilst keeping our customers at the heart of what we do,” expressed Trimmel.

Trimmel’s academic credentials include a bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Economics from the University of the Witwatersrand and an MBA from Manchester Metropolitan University. Her nearly 25-year career in the automotive sector spans key roles in marketing, sales, and aftersales at Ford and Nissan before her impactful contributions at Mercedes-Benz. Trimmel has been pivotal in driving numerous strategic initiatives, product advancements, and process optimisations, particularly within the Mercedes-Benz Vans division in South Africa.

Trimmel’s strategic approach and resource optimisation have been central to achieving targeted sales and financial objectives. Her leadership is characterised by fostering a cohesive team environment and a commitment to high performance and sustainable business growth.

Nadia Trimmel succeeds Bettina Plangger, who is taking on a Strategic Project assignment within Region Overseas in Stuttgart, Germany.Minsoon Star Seremban Autohaus_Mercedes-Benz Malaysia_Dealership_Showroom

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National carmaker PROTON is preparing to move out of its production facility in Shah Alam. The Proton Saga, which is still produced there, will be relocated to Tanjong Malim by 2026. In line with this move, the company recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for new additions to its stamping facilities in Tanjong Malim.

The new stamping lines, designated as E and F-Line, are set to enhance the volume of parts stamping at the Tanjong Malim plant. This expansion will also accommodate increased production volumes and potential new models in the near future. The project has a budget of RM253 million and is a continuation of PROTON’s efforts to bolster its parts stamping capabilities, following the launch of the D-Line stamping plant on 14 March 2023. Proton Saga_Amour Silver

Dr. Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer of PROTON, highlighted the importance of these new additions. He stated, “The addition of the parts stamping E and F-Line are critical to PROTON’s future volume expansion plans as it gives us more flexibility to ramp up our production and meet market demand. For the whole of 2023 and up to June 2024, our Tanjong Malim plant has stamped out 6,067,064 components, of which 395,211 are from the new D-Line, and this number will grow exponentially when production for the PROTON Saga is relocated here in 2026.”

The new E-Line will feature a 4-stage stamping process with a 1,600-tonne stamping machine as well as 3 800-tonne machines, while the F-Line will have a 5-stage stamping process utilising a 2,000-tonne, a 1,200-tonne, and 3 1,000-tonne stamping force machines. Robots will also be employed to transfer parts between workstations, and IR 4.0 technology will be implemented to use real-time data and machine learning to improve the quality of parts produced.

This expansion is expected to reduce PROTON’s reliance on imported parts, insulating the company against potential global trade disruptions and improving local parts supply. Additionally, it will build on the existing competencies in Tanjong Malim and contribute to the development of the Automotive High Tech Valley (AHTV). PROTON_Tanjung Malim_Factory

“As PROTON moves towards consolidating our production operations in Tanjong Malim, we continue to work towards increasing our local parts sourcing. Aside from cost and parts security considerations, we continue to champion the government’s aim to grow local participation in the automotive industry via job creation on multiple levels,” Dr. Li Chunrong added.

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Porsche Thailand has launched the new Porsche Cayenne S E-Hybrid Coupé, tailored specifically for the Thai market and marks a significant milestone for Porsche’s presence in Southeast Asia. The sporty SUV is the 2nd model to be assembled in Malaysia and the first regionally-assembled model to be exported to Thailand. This new variant, loaded with enhanced standard features, aims to provide an elevated driving experience at a compelling price.

Porsche’s assembly facility in Kulim, Kedah was established in 2022 and has already achieved significant milestones, including over 1,000 locally-assembled Cayennes finding new homes with Malaysian families within a year. Now, this facility is exporting the new Cayenne S E-Hybrid Coupé to Thailand, underscoring Porsche’s commitment to the dynamic and diverse Southeast Asian region. Porsche_Cayenne S E-Hybrid_Assembly_Kulim_Malaysia

Understanding the distinct preferences of Thai customers, Porsche has equipped the Cayenne S E-Hybrid Coupé with a higher level of standard equipment compared to the European base model. Key features include a GT Sports steering wheel, Sport Chrono package, BOSE Surround Sound System, and various luxury interior options. The vehicle also comes with advanced driver assistance systems such as Adaptive Cruise Control and ParkAssist including Surround View, ensuring a premium and safe driving experience.

Mr. Detlev von Platen, Member of the Executive Board for Sales and Marketing, Porsche AG said: “It is with immense pride that we introduce this new regionally assembled Cayenne S E-Hybrid for Thailand. With a curated offer at a compelling price, we invest further in the diverse and exciting Southeast Asian region to strengthen our Porsche brand globally.” The new Porsche Cayenne S E-Hybrid Coupé for Thailand is priced from THB6,290,000 (approximately RM812,152).

The new Cayenne S E-Hybrid Coupé is available in Carrara White Metallic, Chromite Black Metallic, and Dolomite Silver Metallic exterior paints at no extra cost. The vehicle’s exterior is enhanced by new HD Matrix LED headlights and 20″ Cayenne Design wheels in Vesuvius Grey, giving it a sporty and luxurious appearance.

Inside, the vehicle offers a choice of smooth-finish leather upholstery in Black or Bordeaux Red, with Porsche crests on the front headrests. The rear seats feature 14-way adjustable comfort bench seats with a memory function, 4-zone climate control, and electric roll-up sunblinds for the rear windows. Additionally, a 12.6″ curved instrument cluster and 12.3″ infotainment screen are part of the new Porsche Driver Experience, ensuring seamless control and entertainment options. There is also smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay.

The Cayenne S E-Hybrid Coupé combines the dynamic performance of the Cayenne S with the progressive drive concept of the Cayenne E-Hybrid. The 3.0L V6 turbo engine is paired with a new electric motor and delivers a system output of 382 kW (519 PS / 512 hp), allowing this SUV to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds, and reach a top speed of 263 km/h. The electric-only range is up to 90 km (Equivalent All Electric Range [EAER] City) which is ideal for daily commutes within Bangkok city.

Porsche has also introduced new adaptive air suspension with two-chamber, two-valve technology and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) as standard, to offer customers a balanced blend of performance and comfort. This system improves driving precision and reduces body movements during dynamic driving, providing an exceptional on- and off-road experience. The suspension also offers an even sharper differentiation between Normal, Sport and Sport Plus driving modes.Porsche Cayenne S E-Hybrid_Thailand

To further enhance the personalisation experience, Porsche has created a bespoke microsite for Thai customers for them to customise their Cayenne S E-Hybrid Coupé with various exterior, interior, and Tequipment options. This online platform offers a seamless booking experience and additional personalisation opportunities.

Deliveries of the new Porsche Cayenne S E-Hybrid Coupé in Thailand will begin in August 2024.

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Chery Corporate Malaysia has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Belia Mahir Project as a commitment to boosting career opportunities for Malaysian youth, particularly in the automotive industry. Belia Mahir Project is a non-governmental entity under the National Skilled Workers Organisation.

The partnership between Chery Corporate Malaysia and the Belia Mahir Project hopes to bridge the gap between education and employment for skilled workers. By offering a seamless transition from graduation to employment within the automotive industry, this initiative will secure promising career paths for graduates and empower them to enhance their skills and promote best practices within the Malaysian automotive sector.

L-R: Howard Lee; P. Prabakaran; Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi; Li Jinsong; Leo Chen; Manndzri Nasib.
L-R: Howard Lee; P. Prabakaran; Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi; Li Jinsong; Leo Chen; Manndzri Nasib.

The Belia Mahir Project actively supports youths who are not in employment, education, or training (NEET) by providing access to higher education and skills training through partnerships with educational institutions and vocational training centres. Additionally, the project helps to secure job placements for this target group across various industrial sectors.

“With the recent launch of Chery’s assembly plant in Shah Alam, Selangor, and more in the pipeline, we aim to cultivate a robust workforce of skilled professionals to maintain our commitment to delivering high-quality vehicles and services to our valued customers,” said Executive Vice President of Chery Corporate Malaysia, Mr. Leo Chen. Jaecoo J6 AWD_Malaysia_Assembly Line

Graduates recommended by the Belia Mahir Project will have the opportunity to join Chery Corporate Malaysia’s offices and assembly plants nationwide. This partnership offers selected candidates the chance to be a part of China’s largest vehicle exporter brand, and gain invaluable experience in the automotive industry. Qualified individuals will receive a competitive minimum monthly income of RM2,000, inclusive of comprehensive staff benefits.

“By empowering local talent and fostering collaboration, we are not only supporting Malaysia’s industrial and energy transition goals but also contributing to the growth and development of the automotive industry in the country,” added Mr. Chen who is looking forward to welcoming the talented individuals who will play a pivotal role in advancing Chery’s mission.

The MoU was exchanged with the Belia Mahir Project and acknowledged by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who is also the National Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Council chairman, during the flag-off ceremony for participants of TVET initiatives programmes by the Malaysian-China Institute (MCI).

Also present at the ceremony were Ipoh Timur MP and National TVET Council member Howard Lee, Batu MP and Malaysian Indian Community Transformation Unit (MITRA) Special Committee chairman P. Prabakaran, Tang International Education Group Founder and President Li Jinsong, and Rubber Industry Smallholders Development Authority (RISDA) chairman and MCI Advisory Board chairman Manndzri Nasib.

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UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd (UMWT) revealed that it ended the month of June 2024 with a positive sales performance, achieving a total of 7,600 units sold for the month. This sales milestone helps bring the company’s year-to-date (YTD) sales total up to 47,000 vehicles.

The achievement is largely due to UMWT’s effective customer-centric initiatives and promotions. It had been the company’s strategy to focus on broader community engagement and also providing innovative mobility solutions. The positive sales results in June is likely fueled by effective promotional efforts aimed at enhancing customer satisfaction, coupled with its corporate social responsibility activities that help boost publicity.Toyota Start Your Impossible Outrun_Kuala Lumpur_UMW Toyota Motor

Datuk Ravindran K., President of UMWT, expressed his gratitude, saying, “We are grateful for the trust our customers have given us, which is reflected in our sales this month. This trust strengthens our commitment to society and aligns with our vision to Move Your World.”

To continue building on this sales momentum, UMWT had introduced the “Peace of Mind with Every Drive” promotion for the month of July 2024. This promotion offers customers up to 100% financing for selected models. Car buyers can also benefit from significant savings, including up to RM7,500 off the Toyota Yaris, with monthly instalments starting from RM688. Additionally, the Toyota Service Savers programme offers convenient instalments starting from as low as RM31 per month.

Furthermore, UMWT had hosted the Toyota Showroom Weekender at its showrooms nationwide last week (13 – 14 July) as a form of engagement with the public. The event showcased 4 popular Toyota models i.e. Yaris, Vios, Corolla Cross, and Hilux, and provided opportunities for the company to show off its products as well as gather customer feedback.Toyota Yaris G Limited_Side

Looking ahead, UMWT will continue to host monthly Toyota Showroom Weekenders, offering test drives, exclusive sales offers, and the latest models. Visitors will be able to enjoy complimentary gifts with a test drive as well as explore trade-in and pre-owned car options from Topmark outlets.

“We are excited to continue hosting events like the Toyota Showroom Weekender, which allow us to engage with our customers and communities directly, emphasising Toyota’s ‘Customer First’ ideology. These interactions are vital in fulfilling our commitment to exceptional service and our vision to Move Your World,” Datuk Ravindran K. added.

For future event dates and details, stay tuned to Toyota Malaysia’s Facebook page.

For more information, visit Toyota Malaysia or call the Toyota freephone line at 1-800-8-TOYOTA (869682).

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Lexus has once again pushed the boundaries of luxury automotive engineering with the launch of the all-new Lexus LBX in Malaysia. This compact SUV replaces the UX as the smallest model in the Lexus lineup and embodies the brand’s Next Chapter evolution with an emphasis on contemporary design, advanced technology, and superior driving experience.

LBX stands for ‘Lexus Breakthrough Crossover’, representing a milestone in the brand’s journey while maintaining its hallmark qualities of luxury craftsmanship and Omotenashi hospitality. The LBX is designed to attract a younger set of buyers and those looking for a more compact yet luxurious vehicle, that offers cutting-edge technology and superior performance. Lexus LBX_Grille_Headlights_DRL

Embodying the principles of the Lexus Next Chapter design, the LBX shows a relaxed and casual character without diluting the brand’s signature identity. The low hood design, frameless spindle grille, and seamless integration of the grille and body create a visually impressive vehicle with a strong, dynamic stance.

The front of the LBX features a new single-projector auto high beam headlight design, integrating both daytime running lights and turn indicators into bi-functional units. Meanwhile, the rear of the vehicle also projects a strong stance, enhanced by flush belt moldings, a gate-style rear roof spoiler, and a light cluster design that contributes to its aerodynamic performance and stability.

Built on the GA-B compact car global platform, the Lexus LBX promises enjoyable dynamic performance thanks to the platform’s lightweight, highly rigid body with a low center of gravity that enhances the vehicle’s nimbleness and fun-to-drive character. The LBX measures 4,190 mm long, 1,825 mm wide and 1,550 mm (Premium) / 1,560 mm (Luxury) tall; wheelbase is 2,580 mm in length. With a turning radius of 5.2 metres, it is ideal for the urban setting; the 220 mm of ground clearance should help it wade through some city floods. Boot volume is 315 litres and is expandable to 992 litres with the rear seats folded down. The tailgate is powered for extra convenience, while a folding tonneau cover is provided to keep the boot hidden. Further, the LBX Premium is fitted with 17″ wheels in Medium Gray Metallic, while the top-of-the-range LBX Luxury has 18″ wheels in Dark Gray Metallic (with Bright Machined Finish).

The suspension system of the LBX has been designed for steering response and turning ability. In the front is a MacPherson strut-type system while there is a torsion beam for the rear. However, the placement of the torsion beam has been carefully chosen to provide high level balance between handling stability and quality ride comfort. Upward jolts when driving over bumps are smoothly absorbed, and small inputs from the road surface are suppressed, while cornering roll and braking posture have been optimized for stability.Lexus LBX_Driving

The LBX is powered by a new self-charging full hybrid electric powertrain, which combines a 1.5L Hybrid Electric Engine with an 8-speed Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (eCVT). This setup delivers a total system output of 136 hp and a peak torque of 185 Nm. The LBX can accelerate from 0  to 100 km/h in 9.2 seconds. Lexus_LBX_1.5L 3-Cylinder Engine_Hybrid

The M15A-FXE 3-cylinder engine features world-class thermal efficiency and high-speed combustion, and provides a perfect balance of driving performance and fuel economy. Additionally, the newly developed bipolar nickel-metal hydride battery is lighter and smaller but delivers a higher output with quicker response. The compact battery also helps improve weight distribution for optimal handling and drivability as well as cabin space.

The cabin of the Lexus LBX is designed to recreate the atmosphere of a higher-segment model, with premium quality materials and attention to detail. The cockpit, based on Lexus’ Tazuna concept, positions principal controls strategically around the driver, allowing for more intuitive control and a refined driving experience. Lexus LBX_Driving_Steering_Infotainment_Apple CarPlay

Ambient lighting adds to the Omotenashi effect. Highlighting different parts of the cabin, the lighting provides a range of 64 colour options, curated in themes that evoke different moods. The indirect illumination (rather than direct lighting) shows off the beauty of both the forms and materials. The LBX also features new Tsuyasumi charcoal trim ornamentation, created using a new film technique that uses multiple layers to give a highly textured appearance with a sense of depth. This complements the black theme with metallic and woodgrain film ornamentation that creates a modern and dignified space. The seats are covered with black synthetic leather with strong visual from the highly saturated red elegance that gives a sporty signature, evoking an active atmosphere.

The Lexus LBX Luxury variant is fitted with a 12.3″ fully digital instrument display, while the LBX Premium variant has a 7″ unit. Both variants offer customisable meters and data layouts according to the selected drive mode. The LBX Luxury also comes with a Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound system, featuring 13 optimally positioned speakers, while the LBX Premium is equipped with a 6-speaker system.

The sound system works with an angled 9.8″ infotainment touchscreen that is integrated into the centre of the dashboard, and features wireless Apple CarPlay BUT wired Android Auto. A route navigation system is also provided and for handsfree operation, there is Dynamic Voice Recognition. For charging devices, there are up to 4 15W Type-C USB ports around the cabin as well as 2 12V power sockets. Additionally, a wireless charging pad is provided at the front console area for compatible smartphones.

Moreover, the air-conditioning system has been designed for compactness and low overall weight, with efficient cooling performance as well as reduced drain on power for less fuel consumption. A pollen / dust removal air filter is installed while a nanoeX generator eliminates smells and maintains air  quality hygiene.

The Lexus LBX is equipped with the latest generation of Lexus Safety System+ (LSS+) which includes multiple systems to detect accident risks, driver alerts, and autonomous controls to help avoid or mitigate collisions. Key features include a Pre-Collision System with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, Road Sign Assist, and more. Additional safety features such as Rear Cross Traffic Alert and a Blind Spot Monitor further enhance the vehicle’s safety credentials.

The Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) is available only in the LBX Luxury. This provides the driver with a simulated view of the vehicle from all sides, even from above, enabling the driver to spot any obstacles and position the vehicle properly when parking. The PVM also has unique See-through and Moving Views as well as an Underfloor See-through View which shows the driver the ground conditions below the vehicle and the angle of the tyres. And even though it is compact in size, the LBX comes with Lexus Parking Assist Monitor as an added convenience. In the LBX Luxury, the Lexus Teammate Advanced Park can assist in parking manoeuvres without requiring any input from the driver. The system handles steering, accelerator, brake, and shift operations with the aid of the 4 PVM cameras and 12 ultrasonic sensors to smoothly position the vehicle in parallel and perpendicular parking spaces, both in the forward as well as rearward directions. Lexus_LBX_Hybrid

The Lexus LBX is available in Malaysia with a choice of 6 standard exterior colours and 3 special colours, all featuring bi-tone paintwork with a contrasting black roof (except for the Black MC variant). The Lexus LBX retails from RM238,888 (Premium; single tone colour) up to RM270,388 (Luxury; dual tone). The factory warranty for the LBX is standard 5 years with unlimited mileage. The HEV components (comprising the HEV battery, inverter and HEV Vehicle Control Computer) are also covered by a standard 8-Year Warranty / Unlimited mileage with additional 2 years (optional).

For more details, visit the nearest Lexus showroom or www.lexus.com.my

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