Cool Cars: Mini Coupe Concept

On its 50th birthday, MINI is celebrating it with a gift to all MINI enthusiasts: the MINI Coupe Concept. The Coupe Concept is touted as the expression of MINI design and will be unveiled for the first time at the Frankfurt Motor Show (17–27 September 2009).

This sporting two-seater is designed to accommodate even the most powerful engine currently available in the MINI – and with the 1.6-litre twin-scroll turbocharged power unit carried over from the MINI John Cooper Works, the MINI Coupé Concept offers truly outstanding performance. Maximum output is 155 kW/211 hp, peak torque 260 Newton-metres/192 lb-ft increasing through the Overboost function for a short while to an even more substantial 280 Newton-metres/206 lb-ft.

The new concept car carries over the unmistakable front end look from the four-seater MINI. Smoothly balanced contours on the engine lid characterised by wide and sweeping radii, the large headlights, the homogenous shape of the radiator grille and the wide lower air intake give each model that unique look, openness and charm so typical of the brand. Through the greater rake of the windscreen on the MINI Coupé Concept, the car looks even more striking and dynamic, the low and streamlined body proving clearly that the MINI Coupé Concept is a particularly outstanding performer.

The MINI Coupe Concept is rather functional too despite being a two-seater. The rear end of the MINI Coupé Concept comes with a large and wide-opening tailgate. Hinged above the roof spoiler, the entire tailgate including the rear window swings up gracefully, offering convenient access to the generous luggage space. Deliberately foregoing the rear seat bench, this unique two-seater offers lots of additional space for taking along all kinds of luggage. Luggage capacity is 250 litres or 8.8 cu ft.

The MINI Coupe Concept certainly looks cool and here's hoping that it will not remain just a concept. For now, we'll just have to wait until the Frankfurt Motor Show to get the full review of the MINI Coupe Concept.

HotVideos: CLK 63 AMG Black Series

Check out this video of a Mercedes CLK 63 AMG Black Series drifting in the European Alps with Jeremy Clarkson at the wheel.

Top Gear - CLK 63 AMG - Black Edition 2

Test Drive: Mitsubishi Lancer GT

Mitsubishi Lancers have always been associated with rally racing. When the new Mitsubishi Lancer GT 2.0 was introduced in Malaysia, it certainly looked its part as a rally machine. The GT version is fully imported from Japan. This is the second generation Lancer to be available in Malaysia and it is leaps and bounds better than the previous one.

Exterior & Design: The new Lancer is a totally new design from its predecessors. It appears bigger and meaner and cooler. The GT version comes with sports bodykits and also a spoiler which enhances its good looks. It comes with 18” alloy rims too. Overall it looks tough and aggressive.

Interior: The interior layout is simple and feels roomy and luxurious with Nappa leather as standard. However, some fitments are a little bit too plasticky. Sitting position is good and comfortable. It comes with an in-dash 6-disc CD changer which sounds quite powerful. A helpful Multi-Information LCD display is situated in between the tacho and speedometers. Probably the coolest part of the interior are the two Magnesium Paddle Shifters which are available only in the GT version. These paddle-shifters feels really superb to touch. The Lancer’s boot space is also very generous.

Engine: The new 2.0L MIVEC engine with INVECS-III CVT transmission feels very solid. With 155bhp and 199Nm of torque, the Lancer GT pulls away quickly from the traffic lights. The INVECS-III CVT transmission is smooth and very responsive. Semi-automatic shifting using the paddle shifts is quick.

The Drive: Driving the Lancer GT is fairly easy although it looks like a beast on the outside. But when the need arises the Lancer GT rises to the occasion and shows its rallying heritage. The power is sufficient and the car handles well on the limits. There is minimal bodyroll even when taking high speed corners. The Lancer feels stable even when cruising at speeds up to 180kph.

Conclusion: The Lancer GT’s tagline is “Fantastic Sports Machine”. In my opinion, this describes the Lancer GT very well. It is a macho and good looking car which drives beautifully. It is also solidly built. List price for the Lancer GT is RM123980 for a new car. Being a fully imported CBU car from Japan, the price is quite reasonable. And it is the closest thing enthusiasts can get to the Lancer Evolution X which costs RM200000 more! The latest 2009 version of the Mitsubishi Lancer has just recently been released featuring minor facelifts to the front grille, bumper and rear light clusters. The overall design appears smoother and less angled.http://www.mitsubishi-motors.com.my/showroom-lancer-overview.php

More Info:

Rivals: Honda Civic 2.0, Peugeot 308, Toyota Corolla Altis, Ford Focus, Mazda 3

Special Thanks: My buddy Hari for allowing a test-drive of his Hellblazer Lancer GT

SpeedMasters #1: Usain Bolt

SpeedMaster: Usain Bolt - "Fastest Man on Earth"

FAST FACTS:

Full Name: Usain St Leo Bolt

Nationality: Jamaican

Birth date: 21 August 1986

Height: 1.96 m

Weight: 86kg

0-100m: 9.58 seconds (World Record)

0-200m: 19.19 seconds (World Record)

Price: PRICELESS!

SpeedMasters #2: Omega Speedmaster Professional

SpeedMaster: Omega Speedmaster Professional

FAST FACTS:

Steel on steel

Reference: 3570.50.00

MOVEMENT
Caliber: Omega 1861

Famous manual-winding chronograph movement that was worn on the Moon.

Rhodium-plated finish

Power Reserve: 48 hours

CRYSTAL
Hesalite crystal

CASE & DIAL
Stainless steel case

Black dial

WATER RESISTANCE
Down to: 50 meters167 feet

SIZE
Gents, Case Diameter: 42 mm

PRICE: USD3000 approx.

SpeedMasters #3: Bugatti Veyron EB 16.4

SpeedMaster: Bugatti Veyron EB 16.4

FAST FACTS:

0-100km/h: 2.5 seconds
Topspeed: 253 mph (407 kph)

Engine: 8000cc, W16, Quad-Turbocharged
Power: 987 bhp
Torque: 1250 Nm
Weight: 1880 kg
Power-to-Weight ratio: 530 bhp/tonne

Gears: 7 speed DSG sequential
Wheels: forged alloys
Price: GBP 1 million
Available: now
Verdict: Over-engineered, over-priced supercar

Cool Cars: Lamborghini Murcielago LP670-4 Super Veloce

FAST FACTS:
Engine: 6500cc, V12
Power: 661 bhp
Torque: 660 Nm
Weight: 1565 kg
Power-to-Weight ratio: 422 bhp/tonne
0-100km/h: 3.2 seconds
Gears: 6-speed E-Gear Sequential Automatic Manual
Topspeed: 213mph (342 kph)
Price: GBP 270000 (USD457500)
Available: now
Verdict: The final Murcielago bows out with a bang!

Cool Cars: Mitsubishi Evolution X FQ 400

FAST FACTS:
Engine: 1998cc, 4 cylinder turbo
Power: 403bhp
Torque: 387 lb ft (525 Nm)
Gear: 5 speed manual
Wheels: 18" SL Corse alloys
Topspeed: 155mph (electronically limited)
0-100km/h: 3.8 seconds
Price: GBP49000
Available: July 2009 - UK, Malaysia (Grey import only)
Verdict: FQ Supercar slayer

Test Drive: Perodua Myvi 1.3 EZi

The Perodua Myvi is commonly seen on Malaysian roads. It is similar to the Daihatsu Sirion/ Toyota Passo in Japan. Since its launch, thousands of units have been sold making it one of the best selling cars in Malaysia. My review unit is the 1.3L EZi version with ABS, EBD & airbags.

Exterior & Design: Functional & cute would come to mind when I think of the Myvi. The front bonnet is short and the cabin is big & airy. It comes with side repeaters on its side mirrors as standard. A rear roof spoiler is added in the EZi version to make it more sporty. The EZi version comes with 14” alloy rims.

Interior: The Myvi manages to create an impression of a big interior space within its small proportions. This is thanks to its high roof height and simple & uncluttered design. The dash is basic and controls are very simple. A single built-in CD changer with FM radio is standard. Sitting position is slightly higher and all controls are within reach of the driver. It is very easy to get into and out of the Myvi. Rear space is good and the trunk is rather big for a car so small. Trunk space can be maximised by folding the rear seats down.

Engine: The 1.3L DVVT (dynamic variable valve timing) engine feels a little bit lethargic for the Myvi. It produces 64bhp @ 6000rpm. However, it is rather economical and the power is sufficient for basic daily city driving. On the highways, the Myvi is able to cruise comfortably at 110km/h. Fully laden, the Myvi would have to strain for a trip up the highlands.

The Drive: Due to its minute size, the Myvi is easy to drive around the city. Parking is extremely simple and steering is light. The Myvi handles well at low speeds. It is at best a city car and not meant as a high-speed racing machine.

Conclusion: Being the winner of the Frost & Sullivan ASEAN Automotive Awards Best Model of the Year 2007 (Malaysia) speaks heaps for the Perodua Myvi. It is a simple, functional and cute car which appeals to the masses. Priced at approximately RM50000 for a new car (1.3L EZi), it is definitely a bargain by Malaysian standards.

More info:

http://www.perodua.com.my/index.php?section=ourcars&page=myvi

Rivals: Hyundai Atoz, Perodua Viva, Proton Saga, Naza Forza, Naza 206 Bestari

HotNews: Schumacher Cancels F1 Comeback!

Much to everyone's disappointment, Michael Schumacher has cancelled his F1 comeback. This is due a neck injury which he picked up previously which is still troubling him. Here are a few excerpts from his site:

"...unfortunately I'm not able to step in for Felipe. I really tried everything to make that temporary comeback possible, however, much to my regret it didn't work out. Unfortunately we did not manage to get a grip on the pain in the neck which occurred after the private F1-day in Mugello...

...consequences of the injuries caused by the bike-accident in February, fractures in the area of head and neck, unfortunately have turned out to be still too severe. That is why my neck cannot stand the extreme stresses caused by Formula 1...

...I am disappointed to the core. I am awfully sorry for the guys of Ferrari and for all the fans which crossed fingers for me. I can only repeat that I tried everything that was within my power. All I can do now is to keep my fingers crossed for the whole team for the coming races."

Looks like Ferrari will have to scramble for another replacement for Massa now.

More info @ http://www.michaelschumacher.de/?page=index&lang=uk

Cool Cars: Volkswagen Scirocco GT

FAST FACTS:
Engine: 1984cc
Power: 197 bhp
Torque: 206 lb ft (279 Nm)
Weight: 1298 kg
Gear: 6-speed manual
Topspeed: 146 mph (235 kph)
0-100kph: 7.2 seconds
Price: GBP20500 (RM230-240k estimated)
Availability:USA/UK - now (Malaysia: Sept 09)
Verdict: Golf GTI's handsome & stylish brother

Green Cars Twin-Test: Toyota Prius vs Honda Civic Hybrid

The Toyota Prius has finally arrived in Malaysia after gaining much fame in USA and Japan among environmentally conscious motorists and Hollywood stars. The current version is the third generation Prius and appears more refined and more pleasing to the eye. Looking back at the awards garnered by the Prius, it is surprising that it took Toyota 8 years to bring the car here. The Prius won its first award in 2001 and has been winning awards until now.

The Honda Civic Hybrid was the first hybrid car to be introduced to us Malaysians. Initial sales were poor due to the high selling price. However, that took a turn when import taxes were reduced for environmentally friendly cars. Now, it is quite easy to spot a Civic Hybrid on the road. Its most telling feature being the ugly sports rims!

Exterior & Design:
Prius: In the looks department, the Prius has managed to improve with age. It still retains the low-MPV look with its chopped off boot but the overall features are rather futuristic and dynamic. Its design is also functional as it manages to return a low coefficient of drag to improve its aerodynamics. Built quality is good and the car feels solid.

Civic Hybrid: Being a Civic, the Hybrid inherits its svelte and sleek design. The major differences from the normal Civics are the radio antenna which is stuck to its roof and the ugly sports rims. I wonder what were designers in Honda thinking of when they approved the rim design. Apparently, the wheels improve aerodynamics.

Interior:
Prius: In the Prius, all the controls and meters are located in the centre. It is divided into two levels which Toyota calls the Dual Zone Cockpit. The Multi-Information Display sits in the upper ‘display zone’ which displays the Eco Drive Monitor and speedometer. The lower zone is called the ‘command zone’ where all the controls are within reach of the driver. A multi-function steering with controls on both sides is able to control the multi-function display. Bluetooth connectivity is also included. The gear lever looks like a joystick and feels like one too. Perhaps the most impressive feature in the Prius is the Heads Up Display (HUD) which projects the speed and other information onto the lower windshield glass reducing the driver’s need to take his/her eyes off the road.

Civic Hybrid: The interior of the Hybrid feels familiar as it looks exactly the same as the normal Civic. The two-tier Multiplex is borrowed from the Civic but the lower tier displays extra information such as IMA assist indicator, IMA charge level, battery charge level and idle stop indicator. The steering has integrated audio controls and the 6-disc CD changer with AUX/MP3 playback is standard.

Engine & Specs:
Prius: Toyota engineers call it the Hybrid Synergy Drive where they combine power from both the 1798cc petrol engine and the electric motor. The petrol engine pumps out 98 bhp and 142 Nm of torque while the electric motor pumps out 80 bhp and 207 Nm of torque. This combination of power manages to give the Prius a respectable 0-100kph sprint time of 10.4 seconds with a top speed of 180kph. Fuel consumption is quoted by Toyota to be 38 km/L. The Prius is driven by an electrically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) on 15 inch aluminium wheels.

Civic Hybrid: Honda’s hybrid system consists of its renowned i-VTEC engine which produces 95 bhp from its 1339cc displacement combined with 20 bhp from its IMA (integrated motor assist) electric motor. Its engine outputs 123 Nm of torque while the motor has 103 Nm. Honda quotes the Civic Hybrid’s fuel consumption as 4.6L/100km which is slightly more than the Prius. The Civic Hybrid also uses the continuous variable transmission.

Conclusion:
The Civic Hybrid is sold at RM129980 on-the-road with insurance. And it has been in Malaysia since 2007. It looks like a normal 8th generation Honda Civic and that’s a good thing (except for the ugly rims). Our new Green kid on the block, the Toyota Prius looks refreshing but retails at RM175000. It will have to catch up with the Honda in terms of marketing and sales. And being RM45000 more than the Civic Hybrid will definitely not help its sales. But this being a Green Car comparison, the most important question is “What is the fuel consumption?”. In this aspect, the Prius thumps the Civic Hybrid. The Prius manages 38km/L while the Civic Hybrid only manages 22km/L. So, does the superior fuel consumption of the Prius justify its RM45000 premium over the Civic Hybrid? Well, if I have RM175000 to spare and I want to save the environment (and reduce my petrol bills) and if I want to look special (rare), I would choose the Prius. But if I just want to save the environment (and still reduce my petrol bills) and I want a cool-looking driver’s car, I would choose the Honda Civic Hybrid anytime. Of course, I would change the ugly looking rims first. And the RM45000 which I saved can be used to plant lots of trees!

Cool Cars: Nissan 370Z

FAST FACTS:
Engine: 3700cc V6
Power: 336 bhp
Torque: 365 Nm
0-100km/h: 4.9 seconds
Gears: 6-speed manual or 7-speed auto with paddle shifters
Wheels: 18" alloy rims (optional 19" Rays forged rims)
Topspeed: 155mph (electronically limited)
Price: RM354000
Available: August 2009 (Malaysia)

Verdict: Japan’s answer to Porsche Cayman

Test Drive: BMW e46 328i

The BMW e46 328i was first introduced to Malaysian shores in year 2000. At that time, we had only two options for the iconic 3-series: 318i or 328i. The e46 is the 4th generation of the 3-series and it replaced the e36. Since its launch in 1998, the e46 3-series has been in the Car and Driver magazine's annual Ten Best list.

Exterior & Design: Its design cues are a simple and smooth body shape. This was a pre-Bangle BMW design with clean, simple and yet functional lines. The car looks solid and oozes confidence. It comes with 16 inch sports alloy rims as standard.

Interior: The interior is well put together and very solid. Wood trim and leather is standard. All plastics are soft to touch and feels expensive. Rear space is rather limited but fits two rear passengers snugly. It comes with 6-disc CD changer as standard. There is a multi-function steering which controls the hi-fi and also the cruise control. All the buttons on the dash are well laid out and within easy reach of the driver.

Engine: The M52TUB28 is the heart of the 328i. It is a 2.8L engine which pumps out a healthy 193bhp with 279Nm of torque. The power and torque is more than adequate for spirited driving. And the in-line six engine is sonorous at full throttle.

The Drive: The 328i handles gracefully and the steering is very communicative. The driver feels well connected to the road. Sixteen inch alloys come as standard and the ride is comfortable. The suspension soaks up bumps very well resulting in a well sorted and comfortable ride.

Conclusion: The e46 328i is definitely a driver’s car. It was created with the essence of ‘The Ultimate Driving Machine’ and it certainly lives up to its reputation. It is ideal as a sporty family sedan (small families only) and is usable for both city and long-distance driving. Current prices for used units are around RM90000 depending on the year and condition of the car. The price of the 328i when new in year 2000 is RM280000.

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Cool Cars: Ferrari F458 Italia

FAST FACTS:
Engine: 4499cc,V8, mid-engined
Power: 570 bhp
Torque: 540 Nm
Weight: 1400kg
Power-to-Weight ratio: 407 bhp/tonne
0-100km/h: 3.3 seconds
Gears: 7-speed sequential
Topspeed: 201 mph (325 kph)
Price: To be announced
Available: 2010
Verdict: Sexy & powerful successor to the F430

Cool Cars: Hyundai Genesis Coupe

FAST FACTS:

Engine: 3778cc, V6
Power: 306 bhp
Torque: 266 lb ft (360 Nm)
Weight: 1583 kg
Gear: 6-speed manual
Topspeed: 152 mph (244 kph)
0-100kph: 5.5 seconds
Price: USD 25750
Availability: USA - now (Malaysia - 2010)
Verdict: First Korean sportscar with RWD – very cool!

Cool Cars: McLaren F1

FAST FACTS:

Engine: 6100cc, V12

Power: 627 bhp

Torque: 651 Nm

Weight: 1140 kg

Power-to-Weight ratio: 550 bhp/tonne

0-100km/h: 3.2 seconds

Gears: 6 speed manual

Wheels: 17” alloy rims

Topspeed: 240 mph (386 kph)

Price: Approx. GBP 1.2 million (Price at launch: GBP 540000 in 1994)

Available: Production ended in 1998

Verdict: The Ultimate Supercar