The second generation of the popular seven seater MPV provides better comfort and convenience, maneuverability and performance. The all new Toyota Avanza also equipped with safety, quality and durability makes it the best value and reliable MPV.

The all new Toyota Avanza retains the practical, yet dynamic design of a small MPV. There have been some very significant changes to the look of all new Toyota Avanza. The new features on the exterior include a wider and dynamic styling front outlook with the three-dimensional appearance centered on the bonnet ornament creates an image of strength. The windscreen angle of the all new Toyota Avanza is shallower, giving a sportier profile to the new model and giving a positive benefit to aerodynamics. A flowing character line on the sides adds dynamism, and together with the glass area makes the all new Toyota Avanza look sleeker and longer.

The interior has a more modern-looking image and spaciousness has been one of the strong points of the all new Toyota Avanza. The new black interior theme combined with the solid and modern surface textures present an image of high quality comparable to that of a passenger car. The new dashboard design is lower to give a wider and more open feel for the front occupants. Complementing the two-tone theme of the dashboard is the high-quality textured surface. The all new Toyota Avanza 1.3E is available only with a manual 5-speed transmission while the three 1.5-litre variants are available only with a 4-speed automatic transmission with electronic controls and lock-up torque converter to enhance fuel efficiency.

Improved and refined in numerous areas, the all new Toyota Avanza is available in four variants with the following on-the-road prices in Peninsular Malaysia: Toyota Avanza 1.5S Automatic – RM 79,590, Toyota Avanza 1.5G Automatic – RM 77,290, Toyota Avanza 1.5E Automatic – RM 72,590 and Toyota Avanza 1.3E Manual – RM 64,590

The all new Toyota Avanza also comes with a selection of recommended accessories that include reverse sensors, body stripes, luggage tray, bag hook, emergency kit and scuff plates on the door sills. Customers who choose the Avanza 1.5G, 1.5E and 1.3E can also order their vehicles with a sporty aerokit and standard solar film.

All vehicles come with three years or 100,000 kilometer warranty, whichever comes first.

After setting another record performance for the year 2011, BMW Group Malaysia moves into 2012 with new variants for the BMW 5 Series featuring BMW’s latest four-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology.

The new engines which feature BMW’s latest two-litre turbo units with twin-scroll turbocharging, VALVETRONIC variable valve control and Double-VANOS variable camshaft control now power the all new BMW 520i and the new BMW 528i M Sport which boasts higher power output with lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, keeping true to the promise of BMW’s Efficient Dynamics strategy of efficiency with enhanced driving pleasure.

At the heart of the new BMW 520i is an all-new two litre, four-cylinder petrol power unit with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology capable of churning out 135kW/ 184 horsepower. The new BMW 5 Series variant is able to achieve an acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h in just 8.0 seconds with a top speed of 226 km/h. In spite of this high performance reading, the premium executive sedan only consumes 6.4 litres per 100km and emits only 149 grams per kilometre of CO2, making the BMW 520i the best in its class in terms of fuel consumption and emissions.

The BMW 528i M Sport, meanwhile, comes with the new BMW TwinPower Turbo technology powerplant that delivers 180kW with 245 horsepower. With this new four-cylinder turbo engine, the car is able to sprint from 0 to 100km/h in just 6.3 seconds with a top speed of 250km/h.  Even with the improved power, the technology has also proven its capability in maintaining its average fuel consumption of only 6.8 litres per 100km and with a CO2 emissions rating of only 158 grams per kilometre.

The new variants of the All New BMW 5 Series is also complemented with the improved BMW 520d Sedan which delivers 135kW / 184 horsepower. The leading Advanced Diesel premium executive sedan marks sensational performance and efficiency figures – accelerating from 0 to 100km/h in just 8.1 seconds with the ability of reaching a top speed of 225km/h whilst only consuming an average of just 4.7 litres per 100km of fuel and emitting only 123 grams of CO2 per kilometre.

The retail price for the all New BMW 5 Series variants (on the road, without insurance, with BMW Service Inclusive + Repair (BS+RI) areThe BMW 520i – RM 358,800.00 while a BMW 528I Sports is RM 409,800.00 and 520d is RM333,800.00

With a refined, performance-oriented style with a sleek silhouette and an aggressive stance, the All-New Optima K5 was named ‘Best of the Best’ at the 2011 Red Dot Design Award. From its auto-leveling HID xenon headlamps and LED-Daytime Running lights at the front to its dynamic and sporty profile to the LED rear combination lamps, the All-New Optima K5 has been labelled one of Kia’s most stunningly designed vehicles.

Through its 18-inch alloy wheels, side garnish, chrome door handles, gull-wing folding side mirrors and lowered stance, the All-New Optima K5 exudes both a sporty and elegant appeal. Inside, the All-New Optima K5 features a plush leather interior, a high-tech and luxurious supervision cluster and a multifunctional steering with controls for audio, ECO-driving, Auto Cruise-Control and Bluetooth.

For the driver, the All-New Optima K5 is fitted with an 8-way electronically controlled seat with an integrated memory seat function which retains settings for two drivers based on their seating position. Adding the overall ambience inside the All-New Optima K5 is a panoramic sun roof that is retractable in the front, an Infinity audio system connected to 8-speakers, a six-CD changer, AUX, iPod and USB connectivity and a dual-zone air-conditioner.

Other technological features in the car includes push-start ignition, auto-headlights, auto-wipers, a rear view camera display on the rear view mirror while the supervision cluster displays useful information such as engine oil service reminder, tire rotation service reminder, distance to service, fuel economy and steering wheel alignment.

Underneath the hood, the All-New Optima K5 is equipped with a fuel efficient Theta II 2.0 dual CVVT engine that produces 165 PS and 198 Nm of torque that is fitted to a six-speed automatic transmission that can be manually controlled through steering-mounted paddle-shifters. The fuel consumption of the All-New Optima K5 on a combined cycle is 7.6-litres per 100 km. The All-New Optima K5 also features an ECO control that optimises the drive train operation for the best fuel consumption.

Once engaged, the ECO control optimally adjusts the ECU, transmission and air-conditioner compressor to reduce the All-New Optima K5’s fuel consumption by 9.1%. The drivability of the All-New Optima K5 is further enhanced through the use of a High Performance Damper (H.P.D) system at its suspension to deliver more responsive and proportionate damping action on both smooth and rough driving surfaces. This in turn results in improved riding comfort, efficient steering and enhanced handling.

The aerodynamics of the All-New Optima K5 receives a boost from its low ground clearance, front bumper lip and wheel deflectors that are aligned with the vehicle’s sleek profile to produce a coefficient drag of 0.29.

For safety, the vehicle comes with an Electronic Stability Program comprising of EBD, ABS, Traction Control System, Brake Assist System, Hill-start Assist Control, six-airbags, large brake discs for improved braking performance, front active headrests, child seat fixtures at the rear and a speed-sensing auto door locks.

The All-New Optima K5 comes in snow white, bright silver and platinum graphite. The latest entrant to Naza Kia Malaysia’s model line-up was unveiled to the media at the launch of the new Kia Red Cube – Petaling Jaya outlet. The All-New Optima K5 has an on-the-road price of RM143,888.

Do you know someone who could use help travelling? Then you can give them the perfect Christmas gift. The GPS Garmin Nuvi 780 Navigator is an excellent gift for the drivers in your life. Did you know that so many people hope to get a GPS for their vehicle that it has become the number one gift request of many people who drives? Think of it, no more worries about how far to go and where to turn, this Garmin GPS will tell you exactly how far to go and exactly when to turn and it’s that easy. This is a must have for everyone on your gift list.

Have you noticed the number of GPS devices on the market today? Some are more expensive and some are less, but there are some features of the GPS Garmin Nuvi 780 Navigator that make it better than the rest. It has a great 4.3 inch display that gives ease of viewing – day or night – and it changes its colours to adjust to the light quality. And really, it is so easy to use that anyone can use it. It has touch screen technology, simple voice directions and 2-D or 3-D maps that update as you travel.

A cool feature is its “Where Am I?” technology, which easily finds the nearest hospitals, police stations, gas stations, address and intersections you are looking for. This will assure you that your friends and family are safe. Even the most non-techie type will find using the Nuvi 780 very easy. So if you have older friends, parents, or even if you are on your Gift List, and none of you see eye to eye with the computer age, these auto GPS systems are a breeze to use. In fact, it comes preloaded with up-to-date street maps for Malaysia and neighbouring countries like Singapore and Thailand.

Along with all of these features, you can set it to alert you of upcoming points of interest in your travels, where school zones are and when you approach red light cameras. You can even make hands free calls, giving you worry free and safe driving. It makes great use of Bluetooth wireless technology with its built-in microphone and speaker, making it much more than a simple GPS device. Another of the many options allows you to fully customize your Garmin with extra software for language translation and detailed travel guides, giving you better overall travels.

This Garmin is great to have. It has many features that we are still discovering. I like to use it to find a gas station when in an unfamiliar area or on vacation and it’s good for finding stores without changing your original destination. The GPS Garmin Nuvi 780 Navigator is truly the greatest device to find your way around the roads with peace of mind knowing you will get there, and have fun along the way.

When one hears someone says he works as a Research Engineer in the Software Architecture team, it is only human nature to think that this person must be only a complete tech geek! However P. Prem Kumar proves to be otherwise in his nature and character. This young gentleman in his late 20s’ completely does not reassemble your geek next door. He is an avid Salsa dancer and bassist with his company band. Apart from salsa, Prem is very much into fine arts and other computer based artists stuff that is too software complicated for the ordinary human mind to comprehend. However this single gentleman has one love that is the envy of many young people his age, his ride. Prem is a proud owner of black 2002 Japanese spec E46 BMW MSport 330i series which was specially imported in from Japan to suit his taste and comfort.

The 330i MSport is a four door sedan that comes with the BMW 3 series family of E46 platform series that is equipped with a M54B30 BMW 3 liter engine. The M54 is a straight 6 engine or inline six cylinders engine with Double VANOS variable valve timing system, The M54 which made its appearance in 2000 is an upgrade of its predecessor the M52 that can generate power up to 170 kW (228 hp). The Double VANOS variable valve timing was developed by BMW AG and Continental Teves and is necessary for both intake and exhaust valves timing adjustment. This system controls the flow of hot gasses into the intake manifold in an individual sequence in any operating condition. The M330i can accelerate to 60 mph within 6.33 seconds.

The M330i comes with both standard manual 5 speed transmission and automatic transmission with power assisted rack and pinion. The suspensions applied are twin-tube gas-pressure shock absorbers, anti-roll bar with MacPherson struts for both front and rear. The braking systems are anti lock and both disc ventilated for front and rear. The fuel capacity is 16.6 gallons.

The interior and other standard equipments include Dual Front, Head & Front Side Impact Air Bag, on board computer, Keyless Remote Control, Daytime Running, Reading & Stepwell lights, electronic seat settings, central locking system and Harman Kardon stereo with Cd player among others.

We at Asiacarmag wish to thank Prem for spending the time ferrying us around during this article write up and  wish him all the best in all is future undertaking.

BMW Group Malaysia recently introduced the all new BMW 6 Series Convertible, the premium convertible that seamlessly blends refined sporting performance with unsurpassed luxury refinement with an exclusive consumer launch event for BMW owners and potential buyers of this sleek and sophisticated premium cabriolet.

First introduced in 1976, the beautiful and elegant BMW 6 Series was a car that captured the imagination of drivers everywhere with its on-road power and agility, coupled with its elegant and flowing lines. Over three decades and two model generations later, the new BMW 6 Series Convertible represents a reimagining of that iconic BMW model, with its elongated lines and expressive sculpted surfaces exuding dynamism and exclusivity. Since the introduction of the second generation of the previous generation BMW 6 Series in 2003, the BMW Group has sold a total of over 50,000 units of this coveted car worldwide, a testament to its enduring appeal and sporting luxury pedigree.

Available in the Malaysian market from April 12 onwards, the BMW 6 Series Convertible will be made available in one engine variant, the BMW 640i Convertible which features an impressive 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line engine. This powerplant is mated to an 8-speed sports automatic transmission, resulting in a near-effortless 0-100km/h time of 5.7 seconds. Like its predecessor, it is an unmistakably classic, multi-layered canvas roof sports the trademark fin roof design that the BMW 6 Series Convertible is known for. Opening at the mere touch of a button, this elegant roof folds into the boot of the new BMW 6 Series Convertible in under 19 seconds, allowing passengers to enjoy uninhibited open-top cruising anytime. Automatic air conditioning and audio system with CD player are all fitted as standard, new BMW 6 Series Convertible is also fitted with a host of class-leading features to provide the complete premium driving experience, including Driving Dynamics Control, Integral Active Steering and electromechanical power steering.

Interior wise, the new BMW 6 Series Convertible features spacious 2+2 seating with ample space even for rear passengers, and very importantly for this segment, the luggage compartment contains sufficient space for two large golf bags even with the roof down, with a maximum capacity of 350 litres. The new lightweight seats also come with an integrated seatbelt system, which is equipped with electric adjustment and a memory function as standard. Besides that, SunReflective Technology ensures that the leather upholstery heat up significantly less in direct sunshine when driving with the top down, further enhancing the comfort features of this premium convertible. As the only vehicle in its segment to include this feature, the BMW Head-Up Display and BMW Night Vision features of the standard BMW ConnectedDrive package projects virtual images from the road ahead as well as detailing vital information onto the windscreen in full spectrum of colour, significantly increasing road safety and allowing one’s eyes to focus on the driving experience.

The new BMW 6 Series Convertible is also covered by BMW’s extensive service program, BMW Service + Repair Inclusive (BS+RI) which covers the normal wear and tear repairs or replacements as well as maintenance, service and repair of factory components of the vehicle. The service program offers peace of mind BMW ownership and provides cover from three years from its original registration date or 60,000KM, whichever comes first.

The retail price (on the road, without insurance, with BMW Service Inclusive + Repair) for the new BMW 640i Convertible is from RM 868,800.00

Elegant and muscular the Huayra merges the past, present and future in a timeless interpretation of automotive art. The styling of the car was perfected over the course of 5 years to find each line’s beginning and end. During this study, eight scale models were created, as well as two 1:1 models, each an evolution of the previous in a never ending quest to perfect the form and refining the substance

The bi-xenon headlamps are just one of the many precious gifts from the Zonda R, and LED daytime running lights are seamlessly integrated in the elliptical shape of the design. The rear bumper integrates with the diffuser and is dominated by an elliptical frame that surrounds the four central exhaust outlets, now becoming a characteristic Pagani element. The new central monocoque on the Huayra is an entirely new design made from carbontitanium. However, with the gull wing doors cutting deep into the roof, much research was focused on achieving the highest levels of rigidity through the application of new advanced composite materials and technologies first tested on the Zonda R. The fuel tank is located integrally in the best protected area of the monocoque, behind the driver, reinforced by safety cell made of different composite and ballistic materials. The front and rear CrMo subframes offer an exceptional rigidity-to-weight ratio to allowing the suspensions to work at their best while incorporating an advanced energy absorbing crash structure, ready to protect the occupants in the unlikely event of an impact.

The never ending quest for weight reduction resulted also into the combination of structural and non-structural or aesthetical elements. An example is the integration of all ventilation air ducts into the monocoque’s structure, making the use of additional parts and ducts unnecessary. The result of this attention to detail is a vehicle weighing 1.350 kg making the Huayra the lightest sportscar in its class.

Mercedes-AMG provides the heart for the Huayra. The 60 degree 12 cylinder turbocharged engine with a displacement of 5980 cm3 has been developed not just to meet the strictest technical and quality requirements, but also to give the car its many faces. The calm and harmony of driving one of the world’s most refined GT car is interrupted when the driver calls upon the Huayra to unleash its 700 horsepower and 1000 Nm of torque. The turbos have been studied to offer immediate response to the slightest throttle input, giving the driver full control over the engine at any rpm and preventing unwanted delays in the delivery of power.

The engine’s systems have been designed and tested to stand up to the most adverse conditions of temperature and performance. The Huayra has been subjected to the highs of Death Valley and the lows of the Arctic Circle. The two lateral radiators are positioned in the front to guarantee the best cooling efficiency of the intercoolers placed over the cylinder heads. Dry sump lubrication ensures an optimal oil feed to the engine even when the car is subjected to the most extreme lateral accelerations. It also regulates the oil flow so that only the necessary amount of lubricant is actually pumped into the engine from the external oil tank, reducing the friction caused by an excessive volume of lubricant inside the engine sump. An oil/water heat exchanger reduces warm-up times by heating the engine lubricant during cold start and keeps engine coolant and lubricant levels at steady operational temperatures. Extensive weight saving programs led to ingenious yet simple solutions. In order to reduce hoses and connections as much as possible is built directly to the engine. The intercooler covers serve as expansion tanks to the low temperature circuit and the engine coolant circuit. The vertical fins contribute to the cooling of the tanks.

The M158 engine is homologated to meet the strictest environmental regulations, EU5 and LEV2. Despite the increase of power compared to the other Mercedes-AMG V12 engines developed for Pagani, CO2 emissions as well as the fuel consumption have been reduced, to make the Huayra class leading amongst 12 cylinder sports cars with values that are respective of much smaller vehicles in the market. The two stage fuel supply system features two microprocessor controlled pumps feeding fuel to the engine with the second pump only activated when necessary, thus reducing the energy required to run the fuel pumps and eliminates the waste of excessive fuel being transported and heated in the fuel lines. This efficiency combined with a large 85 liter fuel tank ensure Huayra’s grand touring ability.

As an homage to the decennial tradition of Mercedes-AMG in building world class sports car engines, the M158 displays the historic AMG emblem on the intake manifold alongside the name of the technician that assembled the engine by hand at the Mercedes-AMG headquarters in Affalterbach, Germany. The Titanium exhaust system has been engineered by MHG-Fahrzeugtechnik and is a direct application of race proven technologies on a high performance road car and the complete exhaust weighs less than 10 kg. Hydroformed junctions are used to reduce backpressure and guarantee a free flow of the exhaust gasses. Titanium guarantees a low weight in the muffler area while Inconel guarantees reliability on the parts of the exhaust more exposed to high temperatures. Careful attention has been paid to the tuning of its sound, which has led to a harmonic rumble at idle speeds with a hint of the power that lies hidden at low speed and a deep thunderous growl of motor and air, reminiscent of an airplane, at high speeds.

 The power and prodigious torque generated by Huayra’s V12 are transferred to the wheels through a transverse sequential seven speed gearbox and a dual plate clutch and the complete gearbox weighs only 96 kg. Keeping the weight of the rear overhang as low as possible has been a priority as we aim for a neutral behavior at the limit. A further benefit of this layout is a better behavior of the car during a rear impact. A dual clutch system was evaluated but ultimately not selected as it would have increased the weight by approximately 70kg, thus negating any minor improvement in shift-time. Xtrac already supplied the gearbox for the Zonda R and so it was the natural choice for the development of a new high performance gearbox. Xtrac’s expertise in motorsports was obvious throughout the design and material selection processes that resulted in the strongest and lightest gearbox possible suitable for road use, with a synchromesh box that offers comfort levels a race car gearbox will never be able to offer.

The suspension geometry has been designed to further enhance the sure-footed nature already present in the Zonda on the longer wheelbase Huayra. The individual suspension made with forged AvionAl double A-arms have been tested extensively on the Zonda R programme. Incorporated into the wheel hub assemblies are cooling ducts that connect directly to the support brackets, thus extending the reliability and lifespan of the bearings. Pushrod operated adjustable Öhlins shock absorbers keep everything under control and have been optimized for the dynamic requirements of the vehicle.

 Pirelli say “Power is nothing without control” and to assure complete control for the driver Pirelli has developed the bespoke P Zero tires, specifically for the Huayra. The Pirelli engineers were faced with a demanding task, combining road holding for excitement behind the steering wheel and lower rolling resistance to reduce CO2 emissions and fuel consumption. These P Zero tires are built in a dedicated MIRS™ (Modular Integrated Robotized System) facility, dedicated to the production of ultrahigh performance tires and are at the forefront of what is technically possible, suited to top speeds above 370 kph as well as to lateral forces exceeding 1,5 G.

 The aerodynamic concept of the Huayra is that of a wing. The vehicle can modify the properties of this wing by varying the front ride height, which can be adjusted dynamically, and by adjusting the 4 control flaps on each of the four corners of the car. The goal is to have a neutral vehicle behavior under all conditions and control body roll via aerodynamic means. The behavior of the flaps is managed by a dedicated control unit that is fed information from the ABS and ECU, which pass information about the car’s speed, yaw rate, lateral acceleration, steering angle and throttle position.

The system improves aerodynamic efficiency in a variety of driving conditions, where a low drag coefficient is not the determining factor. During braking, for example, the rear flaps and the front suspension are raised to counteract the weight transfer and balance the weight distribution between front and rear axles, allowing a better use of the rear brake force. Another vital design tenant for the Huayra project was to ensure clean airflow over the body of the car. The shape of the two engine air intakes behind the occupants shoulders are a tribute to the supersonic aircraft of the late 1950s and 1960s, but also allow the motor breath without disrupting the flow. The intake for the gearbox radiator is located between the engine bay window and the carbon clamshell of the rear bonnet, which provides an excellent airflow to the radiator without having a substantial impact on aerodynamic drag. This decision also led to the omission of a rear wing, replaced by the movable flaps.

The flow of air through the car was also carefully studied. The radiators are angled to contribute downforce and provide the best flow for hot air to be extracted. Air from the central radiator is extracted by vents on the front bonnet and trough the front wheelhouses. Air from the side radiators is channeled to ducts cooling the brake discs and wheel hubs. This air blows onto the brakes at a temperature of approximately 50°C warming the brakes up when cold and improving the first bite significantly. Lateral air outlets behind the front wheels generate a negative pressure inside the wheelhouse providing efficient extraction to lower the drag coefficient and generate downforce on the front. In addition to the downforce generated by the flaps and body, two high negative pressure areas were designed into the shape of the underbody and the diffuser at the rear, thus enhancing the aerodynamic stability and guaranteeing the Huayra downforce under all circumstances.

 As soon as the doors are closed the Huayra transports the occupants to a new dimension; a world that pleases and surprises the senses. Having everything at arm’s length is not close enough for a vehicle with the capabilities of the Huayra. Consequently, the driver will find all primary functions directly on the steering wheel. The gearshift paddles are mounted directly to the steering wheel so the driver never needs to take his hands off the steering wheel. The seats provide both the comfort to make long trips enjoyable as well as the lateral support required when the g-forces build up on extreme driving.

A Pagani is able to present drivers with state of the art solutions while still drawing on the rich history that precedes it. The ever present emphasis is on a living breathing being rather than a digital one. This can be seen in everything from the leather latches to the toggle switches, but this ethos finds its purest expression in the mechanical aluminum gearlever assembly, a monument to the art of the manual gearshift; progress that does not deny the past. The aluminum dashboard takes inspiration from the most complex swiss watch designs and includes a central Multi-Function Display displaying performance relevant information when SPORT mode is engaged and a trip computer when the COMFORT mode is activated. The aluminum center console is machined from one solid block of aluminum and features a clarinet style array of mechanical switches controlling the HVAC system. The high definition central touchscreen is the heart of the vehicle infotainment system, controlling audio functions, satellite navigation, secondary vehicle functions and Bluetooth phone.

 To this date five prototypes have been built which have been conducting road tests for the past 4 years. Currently, over half a million kilometers have been covered by our prototypes and before entering the US market we will have reached one million test kilometers. Each prototype has been assigned to a specific development task. At Mercedes-AMG one is used to develop drivability, and another is used for emission development. One car is operated constantly by Bosch Engineering for the application of ABS and advanced stability and performance enhancement systems. Still another vehicle is used for gearbox testing, and general vehicle dynamics development.

 The car complies to the strictest European and American standards in term of safety and pollution regulations. Several studies were conducted to determine the most frequent types of crashes involving high performance cars. The results of these studies have let us to develop specific safety measures not required by law but to guarantee an enhanced protection for the occupants. Several cars have been used to perform these tests

Nasim Sdn Bhd, the official distributor of the Peugeot brand in Malaysia, recently launched the highly-anticipated and multiple award-winning coupe, the Peugeot RCZ.

Voted the most beautiful car of the year at the 25th International Automobile Festival, the RCZ features avant-garde styling and proportions that heralds a new dynamic chapter in Peugeot’s history. It’s sculptured and dynamic exterior features an athletic, elegant and aerodynamic style. Its double-bubble roof and rear window, in particular, represent a technological engineering achievement for a mass-produced vehicle.

“The RCZ is a design statement from Peugeot. Its futuristic exterior, luxurious interior and powerful engine is catered for enthusiasts who enjoy driving and want to be noticed. The RCZ enters the niche premium coupe segment in the market and we are confident it will be well received,” said SM Nasarudin SM Nasimuddin, CEO of Nasim.

The RCZ, which is a 2+2 coupe, will be available from Nasim in both automatic and manual transmissions mated to powerful twin-scroll turbocharged engine. The automatic variant produces 156 bhp and 240 Nm of torque while the manual variant produces an astounding 200 bhp and 275 Nm of torque. Complementing the RCZ’s power are the car’s unique aerodynamic enhancements such an active rear spoiler. The active rear spoiler is capable of deploying in two positions based on the speed of the car to ensure ideal balance between fuel consumption and road holding.

It is deployed at a 19-degree angle (Position 1) at speeds more than 85 kph and folds back at speeds below 55 kph. At speeds in excess of 155 kph, the rear spoiler is deployed at a 34-degree angle and folds back to Position 1 at 145 kph. In addition, drivers can choose to activate the rear spoiler manually by engaging a button on the centre console.
Aesthetically, the RCZ’s windscreen, double-bubble roof and tinted rear window create a sense of continuity that is richly defined by its two aluminum arches.

On the side, the “step down” at the door level creates an original link between the car’s plunging front aspect and its muscular rear. Another distinct feature of the RCZ is its wide aluminum bonnet which includes the front wings that in turn further emphasize the car’s width. Other key characteristics of the RCZ’s exterior includes xenon with dynamic directional lighting, LED rear tail lamps, aluminum 19-inch alloy rims, front and rear parking assistance and an active bonnet system whereby a pyrotechnic system raises the bonnet’s hinges by 55mm in 0.1 seconds when there is a frontal collision. This feature is developed to enhance the pedestrian safety of the RCZ.

Inside, the RCZ, which was named Coupe of the Year in 2010 by an internationally-renown motoring publication, features a Nappa leather interior with an ideal driving position, a fluid and a streamlined fascia panel to immerse the driver in an elite sporting ambience. The luxurious interior is further complemented by electric-powered seats for the driver and front passenger with memory functionality, Bluetooth and AUX connectivity and a JBL hi-fi system connected to six-speakers and a 240-Watt amplifier.

The RCZ, which is assembled at Magna Steyr’s plant in Graz, Austria, offers exceptional road holding which is owed to the high torsional rigidity and build quality. Furthermore, its particularly low ride height and centre of gravity and wide tracks enhances drivability. In addition, the 200 bhp RCZ features a sound system technology to enhance the driving experience through different engine harmonics according to the rate of acceleration.

“The RCZ reinforces Peugeot’s strength in the areas of innovation and design. From the Peugeot 202 and 402 ‘Andreau’ of the 1930s to the RCZ, Peugeot has constantly changed the way we think and understand about automotive design and engineering,” said Dato’ Samson Anand George, COO of Nasim. For safety, the RCZ is equipped with four airbags, ESP, ABS, EBD, EBA, anti-skid regulation and dynamic stability control. For more efficient braking, the manual RCZ is equipped with larger ventilated discs.

The automatic variant delivers a fuel consumption of 7.3-litres per 100 km (combined cycle) and CO2 emissions of 168g per km while the manual variant has a fuel consumption of 6.9-litres per 100 km (combined cycle) and CO2 emissions of 159g per km. The on-the-road price of the automatic variant is RM218,888 while the on-the-road price of the manual variant is RM223,888.

Both variants of the RCZ are available in either Pearlescent White or Haria Grey. The RCZ will be part of a roadshow at the Bangsar Shopping Centre from May 20 to May 22.

The first “Historic Mercedes-Benz Concours 2011” to be staged here on May 8 will see the largest ever convergence of the vintage three-pointed star marque in South East Asia to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the invention and innovation of Daimler and Benz.

The Concours is Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s initiative to celebrate Mercedes Benz’s jubilee year commemorated worldwide to mark Mercedes-Benz’s 125 Years of Innovation and mark the registration of Carl Benz’s “vehicle with gas-engine drive” bearing patent number 37435 with the Berlin Patent Office on January 29, 1886. At the same time as Benz, Gottlieb Daimler developed the first four-wheeled motor car. “The pioneering efforts of Carl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler led in the shaping and development of the Mercedes-Benz. Daimler trail-blazed the development of the automobile more diversely and enduringly than any other motor vehicle manufacturer – in all relevant areas, from drive train technology to comfort and safety through to design.

 “Innovation is the cornerstone of Mercedes-Benz’s enduring success and since 1886, the company has underpinned its claim to technological leadership with over 80,000 patent applications since Carl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler, respectively unveiled their ‘Patent-Motorwagen” and “motorised carriage”. “As the world’s first car, the Benz Patent Motorwagen is the symbol of pioneering spirit par excellence and from the very beginning the exquisite three-wheeler and Daimler’s motorised carriage signaled that a new age of mobility had dawned,” said Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Sdn Bhd President and CEO Roland S. Folger. These two-vehicles represent the evolution of a unique success story – one that has continuously had many new chapters added to it by Mercedes-Benz, evolving from the “horseless carriage”, which initially critics said had “no future” to an icon of personal freedom, but also a significant factor within the economy. Folger said the introduction of the first modern passenger car, the Mercedes 35 hp in February 1900 marked the transition from the long-legged “motor carriage” to the motorcar of today.

 The decisive technical innovations were its long wheelbase, wide track, low centre of gravity and angled steering column. These improvements created the fundamental DNA for comfortable and safe driving, a concept turned into reality in a Mercedes. “As we celebrate the 125th anniversary, the Mercedes-Benz brand has reached a new milestone with the delivery of 30 million automobiles bearing the three-pointed star to customers around the world since post-war production in 1945. “Mercedes Benz cars have made their home in Malaysia beginning with the delivery of the first Mercedes-Benz to HRH the late Sultan of Johore, Sultan Sir Ibrahim Iskandar Al-Masyhur ibni Almarhum Sultan Sir Abu Bakar in 1910,” said Folger. In 1951, Cycle & Carriage was awarded the first distributorship of Mercedes-Benz in the then Malaya.

To date, more than 100,000 Mercedes-Benz cars have been sold through a network of Mercedes-Benz dealers. The Historic Mercedes-Benz Concours to be held at the Palace of Golden Horses, Mines Resort City on Sunday May 8 will showcase cars covering the vintage (pre 1960), Classics (1961-1975) and Modern Classics (1976-1989) period. Folger said the Concours was Mercedes-Benz’s initiative to thank the tens of thousands of loyal Mercedes-Benz supporters in Malaysia and provide them with a platform to showcase their timeless and is some instances priceless classics. “The cars participating in the Concours proudly reflect the history, longevity, build quality, leading edge technology and design and the painstaking efforts by the owners to maintain these rare collectibles in classic conditions,” he said. The cars will be judged based on preparation, condition, correctness, cleanliness and originality and an independent panel of judges including a classic car expert from Mercedes-Benz’s Classic Car Centre in Germany will evaluate them in the following categories: Engine & Engine Compartment, Exterior, Interior & Trunk/Boot and Undercarriage/Suspension/Wheels.

The owners of the top car in each of the three categories will win an all-expense paid vacation for two to the Mercedes-Benz Museum and Classic Car Centre in Germany. “We are confident that the Historic Mercedes-Benz Concours will be a success and also a visual treat for all car lovers and this unique gathering will also reinforce the numerous innovations in design, style and technology which make the three-pointed star a passionate and most celebrated symbol of a timeless pursuit of excellence. Of the participating cars is a 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing Rudge Wheel, a former category prize winner at the renowned Pebble Beach Concours D’Elegance while another, a 1936 Mercedes-Benz 500K Roadster was also displayed at the same show. “It was Carl Benz who said: “the love of inventing never “dies” and Gottlieb Daimler coined the famous maxim: “the best or nothing”. Mercedes-Benz has remained true to these guiding principles and these principles will be amplified by the owners and their cars at the Historic Mercedes-Benz Concours,” Folger added.

The Concours will also showcase competitor’s cars including the 1936 Mercedes-Benz 500k Roadster, 1958 Mercedes-Benz 300 LS Gullwing, 1963 Mercedes-Benz 220 SE Ponton Cabriolet and various versions of the Mercedes-Benz Fintail. Mercedes-Benz will also showcase its current portfolio of passenger cars, vans, buses and trucks at the Concours. Incidentally, the Mercedes-Benz has also starred in over 500 films and in more than 300 pop songs including one entitled “Mercedes-Benz” in which the legendary late Janis Joplin pleads with the Lord to buy her a Mercedes Benz!

BMW Group Malaysia today announced the availability of two new BMW 320i variants; the elegant BMW 320i Executive Edition and the dynamic BMW 320i M Sport at all BMW authorised dealers nationwide from the weekend of April 2nd 2011.

As the latest iteration of the best-selling premium executive sedan in the world the Fifth Generation BMW 3 Series has won numerous awards since its introduction in 2005, including the New York Auto Show ‘World Car of the Year’ award, What Car? ‘Car of the Year’ and five consecutive appearances on Car and Driver’s ‘10 Best Cars’ awards. In fact, a 2009 report by the German TÜV (Technical Inspections Organization) – the largest agency responsible for assessing vehicle safety and roadworthiness in Germany – assesses the current BMW 3 Series as an outstandingly durable and dependable vehicle, which currently offers the best reliability in its class.

Mr. Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia said, “These new BMW 3 Series Editions underline the two key tenets the award-winning range of executive sedans that we at BMW Group Malaysia are offering to our discerning customers; elegant luxury and sporty performance. These new BMW 3 Series Editions will certainly appeal to discerning drivers, reinforcing BMW’s position as the superior choice in the premium segment and highlighting exactly why the BMW 3 Series model continues to be the most successful premium and sporty vehicle in the world.”

Since, the introduction of the Fifth Generation 3 Series in 2005, BMW Group Malaysia has sold more than 9000 units of this popular car, making it the most popular model within the BMW range, and one of the principle contributor’s to BMW’s current and continued success in Malaysia.

Both BMW 3 Series versions feature the accomplished 2.0 litre-inline-four-cylinder engine that produces an impressive 115kW / 156hp, resulting in a 0-100km/h time of 9.8s. Like all current BMW models, both BMW 3 Series Editions also come with BMW Efficient Dynamics measures as standard, including Brake Energy Regeneration which results in a fuel consumption level of only 7.8L/100 km, an improvement over the previous engine’s efficiency of 8.0L/100 km. The new 3 Series Editions are also fitted with a host of features and equipment to exude the complete premium innovation experience, whether behind the wheel or in the passenger seat. Both the new BMW 320i Executive Edition and BMW 320i M Sport will also feature for the first time, the BMW Navigation System Professional and BMW Connected Drive Infotainment features, which up till now have only been available exclusively on the six-cylinder variants of the 3 Series. The BMW Navigation System Professional utilizes the Global Positioning System (GPS) to provide detailed and up-to-date positional awareness and navigation, all accessed through the 8.8” dashboard-mounted LCD panel and BMW iDrive controller. On the other hand, BMW Connected Drive provides owners with complete USB connectivity and Bluetooth hands free functions, as well as considerably expanded functionality for mobile phones and portable music players, on-board mobile office applications and on-board Internet

In terms of aesthetics both 3 Series Editions retain the trademark BMW kidney grille and Hofmeister kink, muscularly contoured bonnet and short overhangs that are trademark of the Fifth Generation BMW 3 Series.  Combined with a beautifully balanced proportion, handsomely aggressive appearance and sleek silhouette typical of all BMW models, the BMW 3 Series continues to radiate the trademark distinction and sporting pedigree that the model has epitomised since its introduction in 1975. However, both new BMW 3 Series variants have their own distinctive visual cues that underline their respective Editions. The new BMW 320i Executive Edition comes exclusively with 17” V-spoke light alloy wheels style 338 together with silver trimmings in the front apron, as well as chrome window recess cover and kidney bars, providing a visually elegant touch to this variant.

On the other hand, the new BMW 320i M Sport features a customised M Sport and M Aerodynamics package, which includes the M Sport suspension, 17” double-spoke M light alloy wheels style 194M and BMW Individual High Gloss Shadow Line window frames, underlining the dynamic performance and appearance of this Edition. The changes extend to the interior, with the elegant character of the new BMW 320i Executive Edition matched with sports leather steering wheel, Black High-Gloss interior trim, full electric seat adjustment and doorsill trim sporting the Edition logo. By contrast the new BMW 320i M Sport signals its sporting intent with sports seats for the driver and front passenger, Aluminium Glacier silver trim, and an anthracite BMW Individual headliner.

Both new BMW 3 Series variants share an interior characterised by an elegant and organised appeal with easy to use function controls within reach of both the driver as well as front passenger, with top quality materials and finishings rendered with precise detail to underline the BMW 3 Series ambience of premium luxury

Both the new BMW 320i Executive Edition and the new BMW 320i M Sport are also covered by BMW’s extensive service program, BMW Service + Repair Inclusive (BS+RI) which covers the normal wear and tear repairs or replacements as well as maintenance, service and repair of factory components of the vehicle. The service program offers peace of mind BMW ownership and provides cover from three years from its original registration date or 60,000KM, which ever comes first.

The retail prices (on the road, without insurance, with BMW Service Inclusive + Repair) for the new BMW 320i Executive Edition is RM 241, 800.00 and the BMW 320i M Sport are RM253, 800.00