Car Crash: Two GTRs Wrecked in Malaysia – Four Dead, Two Critical Injured

Four people died and two others suffered serious injuries when two Nissan GT-Rs lost control and both hit a tree in Malaysia, earlier today. The accident happened on Jalan Haji Ahmad 1 in the city of Kuantan in the direction of Semambu. The two supercars, believed to be speeding, lost control under wet conditions and crashed around 4:00 AM local time. The four victims killed in the accident were the driver of the Dark Grey Nissan GT-R, Tan Kah Yong (24 years old), passenger Bao Shanshan sitting in the front (26 years old from Liaoning, China), the driver of the White Nissan GT-R Go Haw Wei (20 years old) and passenger Koay Khor Liang (21 years old), also passenger in the front. Two more passengers were seated in the sports cars, one in the back of each GT-R. The two are seriously injured and brought to a local hospital.

Kawasaki Ninja ZX10R 2013

2013 Kawasaki ZX-10R Key Features • NEW Öhlins-Kawasaki electronic steering damper reacts to current speed as well as rate of acceleration and deceleration to help provide the ideal amount of damping force across a wide range of riding scenarios • Engine and chassis allow for linear power delivery • Sport-Kawasaki Traction Control (S-KTRC) continuously monitors wheel speed, throttle position, engine rpm and a host of other data to help ensure the optimal amount of traction • Power Mode selector allows riders to select power level and power delivery • Aluminum frame has ideal strength and rigidity • Big Piston Fork (BPF) helps maintain composure under braking • Horizontal back-link rear suspension helps deliver smooth suspension action • Slipper-type back-torque limiting clutch helps corner entry handling • Race-oriented instrumentation offers riders a wealth of information 2013 Kawasaki ZX-10R Features and Benefits New Öhlins-Kawasaki Electronic Steering Damper • Specially tuned for the 2013 ZX-10R, this new electronic damper helps provide the ideal amount of damping force across a wide range of riding scenarios • Maintains a high level of rider feedback by allowing lower damping forces under less taxing conditions, but quickly adapts to increase damping and enhance high-speed stability when required • Reacts to current speed as well as rate of acceleration or deceleration to help provide light steering feel at low speed, as well as superior damping at higher speeds or during extreme acceleration/deceleration • Uses Öhlins’ patented twin-tube design to help ensure stable damping performance and superior kickback absorption Liquid-cooled, DOHC, 998cc, Inline-four Engine • Design is compact, narrow and lightweight • Camshafts, crankshaft and pistons designed to complement the engine’s prodigious power production • Large intake valves, camshaft profiles and port shapes help maximize power production and smooth power delivery • Chromoly camshafts enhance durability • Single-shaft secondary balancer helps reduce vibration; its use allows several vibration-damping parts to be simplified and lightened • Strong connecting rods suit the power potential of this engine • ECU is small enough to be tucked away in a slot in the airbox assembly • One-piece upper crankcase and cylinder casting offers maximum rigidity • Low-friction oil pump reduces parasitic power loss • A lightweight radiator with tightly packed cores provides efficient engine cooling • A liquid-cooled aluminum oil cooler promotes high-efficiency heat dissipation • Intake and exhaust valves are titanium to reduce reciprocating weight and stress at high rpm Dual-injector Digital Fuel Injection • Large 47mm throttle bodies help with throttle control • Secondary fuel injectors enhance power output and power characteristics at high rpm; the lower injectors are always on, while upper injectors come on as needed according to degree of throttle opening and engine rpm • Oval-shaped throttle bodies allow precise throttle control and instant response • An Idle Speed Control (ISC) valve on the throttle body unit automatically adjusts idle speed, contributing to easier starts and off-idle throttle response Sport-Kawasaki Traction Control – S-KTRC • A highly sophisticated electronic system based on actual Kawasaki racing experience that’s designed to maximize forward motion by allowing racers to ride closer to the edge of traction • The system crunches a wide range of data, including throttle position, wheel speed, engine rpm, wheel slippage and acceleration, with help from a speed sensor fitted to each wheel • The quickest acceleration requires a certain amount of wheel slippage, so to optimize traction, S-KTRC actually allows for optimum wheelspin • Using complex analysis, the system is able to predict when traction conditions are about to become unfavorable. By acting before slippage exceeds the range for optimal traction, the system can quickly and smoothly reduce power slightly so the wheel regains traction • S-KTRC confirms conditions 200 times per second and governs ignition, which allows extremely quick response to changing conditions • Riders can choose between three operational modes, depending on skill level and conditions • A level meter on the LCD instrument panel displays how much electronic intervention the system is providing, in real time Ram-air Intake • A highly efficient and forward-positioned ram air intake is designed for low intake noise and good intake efficiency • 9-liter airbox enhances breathing and power • Oval-section intake funnels promote non-turbulent flow at all rpm Titanium Exhaust System • Titanium-header exhaust system with hydroformed header pipes and small, lightweight muffler assembly uses a pre-chamber that houses two catalyzers for emissions and sound • Headers have nearly identical specs to their roadracing counterparts, which makes it easier for riders to increase track performance with the simple addition of a less-restrictive muffler; now there’s no need to replace the lightweight and race-spec header assembly • Dual catalyzers help the ZX-10R meet strict U.S. and Euro III exhaust emissions standards Six-speed Transmission • Race-style cassette transmission allows simple trackside gearing changes to suit individual circuits • The “cassette” is located high enough that it can be accessed without having to drain engine oil • Primary and final reduction ratios minimize rear end movement (squat/lift) during acceleration and deceleration • Close-ratio 4th, 5th and 6th gears complement the ZX-10R’s circuit performance • Overall gear ratios suit the power characteristics for ideal power delivery in all rpm ranges • An adjustable back-torque limiting clutch facilitates smooth downshifts, a main contributor to stability under heavy braking Chassis / Frame • Aluminum-alloy frame offers optimal flex and rigidity characteristics for balanced handling on street or track • Chassis geometry allows sharp steering characteristics and crisp handling with no corresponding tradeoff in chassis stability at speed • Frame is an all-cast construction of only seven pieces, with ideal wall thicknesses that provide adequate strength and optimized rigidity • Front end weight aids aggressive, on-the-gas corner exits • Modifying or removing the exhaust pre-chamber (for racetrack applications only) enables two chain links to be removed, which offers riders the opportunity to alter chassis geometry by shortening the wheelbase by up to 16mm to suit different track layouts • Like the frame, the alloy swingarm is an all-cast design, with just three pieces • Narrow subframe layout contributes to the compact and slim tail section Horizontal Back-link Rear Suspension • Shock and linkage are positioned above the swingarm • The design offers excellent road-holding, smooth suspension action, and stability and feedback when cornering • The design positions the shock’s upper link to spread out the load and contribute to enhanced overall frame rigidity and chassis balance • The fully adjustable shock features a piggyback reservoir and dual (high • and low-speed) compression damping, which enables fine tuning for racing or track-day use • The Big Piston Fork (BPF) and Back-link suspension system contribute to rider control and faster lap times Big Piston Fork (BPF) • The Big Piston Fork’s (BPF) 43mm inner tubes is one of the contributing factors to the bike’s composure under braking • Compared to a cartridge-type fork of the same size, the BPF features a 39.6mm main piston • Oil inside the BPF acts on a surface area almost four times the size of a conventional fork’s. The larger surface area allows damping pressure to be reduced while ensuring that damping force remains the same • Reducing damping pressure allows the inner fork tube to move more smoothly, which is especially noticeable at the initial part of the stroke. The result is greater control as the fork compresses and very calm attitude change as vehicle weight shifts forward under braking, and contributing to greater chassis stability on corner entry • Because the BPF eliminates many of the internal components of a traditional cartridge fork, construction is simplified and overall fork weight is reduced • Compression and rebound damping adjustments are located at the top of each fork tube, while preload is now at the bottom Race-spec Steering Damper • An adjustable twin-tube Öhlins steering damper is standard. The second tube acts like a reservoir, allowing the internals to ensure stable damping and excellent feedback even under racing conditions Advanced Braking System • Tokico radial-mount brake calipers use dual pads and offer a superb initial bite, increased control, progressive feel and a high degree of feedback to the rider • A radial-pump front master cylinder provides the ultimate in front brake feel and feedback • A pair of 5.5mm thick, 310mm petal discs provides the heat dissipation needed to maintain brake feel and responsiveness during extended heavy use • A 220mm rear petal disc gripped by a single-piston caliper provides excellent feel and feedback Three-spoke Cast Aluminum Wheels • Gravity-cast alloy wheels feature a three-spoke design • Light wheels mean low unsprung weight, which allows the suspension system to work more efficiently Ergonomics • 32-inch seat height makes it easy to reach the ground • Fuel tank shape offers a comfortable ergonomic fit with the rider’s forearms and inner thighs when riding • Adjustable foot pegs can be lowered an additional 15mm when street riding or touring Advanced Aerodynamic Bodywork • Compact, curved shape • Large ducting aids engine heat dissipation • Line-beam headlights and short fairing contributes to the aggressive styling • LED three-bulb position lamp at the top of the ram air duct offers enhanced visibility to drivers and pedestrians • Fairing-mounted mirrors feature integrated, LED-type turn signals • Turn signals are electrically connected via couplers, which allows easy mirror removal for track day riding • Compact tail section includes an elegant, nine-bulb taillight • Taillight and turn signal stalks are mounted on a rear fender assembly that’s easily removable for track day riding Advanced Electronic Instrumentation • Instruments feature a high-visibility bar-graph LED tachometer positioned above a multi-window LCD info panel that offers riders a massive quantity of information • The tachometer also functions as a shift indicator: LEDs flash when the pre-set rpm is reached, and riders can set shift rpm according to preference • The multi-function LCD features two display modes: Standard and Race. Switching to Race Mode alters the Speed display by changing it to Gear Position, and by changing the Clock display to Speed • Additional functions include odometer, dual trip meters, average fuel consumption, instant fuel consumption, Power Mode (x3), S-KTRC (x4), S-KTRC level indicator, low fuel indicator, Economical Riding indicator (shows most favorable fuel consumption), water temperature and a host of indicator lamps

The New Honda Jazz S

Honda Malaysia has announced the introduction of the Jazz S. The Thai-built variant replaces the Grade V introduced when the facelift debuted here last year and joins the Jazz Hybrid as the two models in the Jazz range. It significantly drops the asking price from the previous RM109,800 to RM99,800 (on-the-road with insurance), bringing it closer to the Hybrid. Exterior-wise, the Jazz S wears 15-inch alloys (previously, 16-inch), new front and rear bumper, black mesh grille and mud guards, as well as a new blue/black seat fabric. The reduction is pricing has seen the omission of the side sill garnish, exhaust pipe finisher, paddle shift, cruise control and steering wheel audio controls.

It’s still powered by the familiar 120 PS L15A 1.5 litre i-VTEC lump and five-speed auto transmission, and the S retains the array of safety kit, namely Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), dual airbags, ABS, EBD and brake assist. As for exterior colours, the Jazz S goes with three choices – Brilliant White Pearl, Polished Metal Metallic and Crystal Black Pearl, the same shades as found on the Grade V previously, with only the signature Brilliant Orange Metallic dropped from the palette.

New Honda Accord 2013 Sedan and Coupe

Here are the official images of Honda’s all-new D-segment contender, and according to Honda this generation is ‘the most sculpted and the most dynamic” Accord yet. This is the US market version of the Accord, which is the larger of the two Accords available in different parts of the world. This one is what we’ve traditionally gotten in Malaysia for the last two generations – the other Accord is the smaller, sportier bodied version available in Europe. Some countries, like Australia, get both models.

We only have these front- and rear three-quarter shots of the car, but according to Honda, the exterior length of the car has been shortened. Hopefully, this doesn’t mean the wheelbase has been shortened as well, like in the case of the new Civic FB versus the FD it replaced, as longer wheelbases usually mean better interior space comfort. The current 8th generation Accord’s 2,800mm wheelbase is one of the longer ones in its class. Below two images of a blue new generation Accord Coupe.

Latest Mitsubishi Lancer 2.0 GT in Malaysia

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia has brought the Lancer 2.0 GT up to speed with some extra fitments: LED daytime-running and position lights, reverse camera and bodykit, while the interior is also treated to Nappa leather seats and premium carpet mats. The CBU-from-Japan car is powered by a 2.0 litre, 16-valve MIVEC unit that produces 150 PS and 197 Nm of torque. Transmission is a six-stepped INVECS-III CVT with paddle shifts. It is now priced at RM125,468 OTR without insurance.

Other standard equipment includes a 2-DIN Touch Screen Entertainment System, automatic wipers and headlamps, and cruise control. White Solid, Black Mica and Red Metallic remain the standard hues on offer. The last update was in 2009, when the car received the new front end from the Lancer Sportbac

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BMW HP4 supersports bike based on S1000RR

BMW has unveiled the latest bike to join its High Performance (HP) range – the BMW HP4. Like its other HP siblings (HP2 Enduro, HP2 Megamoto and HP2 Sport), its based on an existing Motorrad model, which in this case is the BMW S1000RR. It is the first four cylinder bike in the BMW HP family. The BMW HP4 provides the homologation basis for the use of BMW motorcycles in motorcycle racing categories such as superbike and superstock categories. It has a standard passenger seat cover for a monoposto look. There’s also a passenger seat package as an ex works option, which includes the passenger seat as well as the passenger footrests. Fitted as standard is a Dynamic Damping Control DDC system, which allows dynamic damping adaptation of the pside-down fork and spring strut to the specific situation on the road. The damping is adapted to the current manoeuvre or road surface by means of sensor-supplied parameters via electrically controlled regulation valves. In this way, the HP4 offers optimum damping in every situation, handling long and short shocks virtually perfectly so as to provide maximum traction and safety.

The new HP4 is fitted with the water-cooled 4-cylinder in-line engine with a peak output of 193 hp at 13,000 rpm and a max engine speed of 14,200 rpm. Its maximum torque of 112 Nm is reachedat 9,750 rpm. The torque has been perceptibly increased in the 6,000-9,750 rpm range. In “Rain” mode there is now a smoother output and torque curve available between 2,500 rpm and 8,000 rpm. This is plenty of power considering the HP4 weighs just 199kg including a 90% full tank of petrol. The rear tyre of the HP4 uses a 200/55ZR17 size. As for the brakes – the HP4 has Brembo monoblock calipers and 9x floating brake discs at the front as well as an upgraded Race ABS system. There are four different ABS modes to be picked from – rain, roads, racetrack and slick. Unlike the RR where horsepower is tuned down to 163hp in rain mode, the engine’s maximum 193hp is available in all four ABS modes. BMW has equipped the HP4 with a shift assistant, where you can do clutchless upshifts if you want. Downshifts still require you to use the clutch, and if you touch the clutch it disengages the shift assistant.

2012 KTM 200 Duke

The Duke. The name itself already speaks of royalty, and when it’s taken in the context of a bike that’s as versatile as the 200 Duke, the name certainly applies. The 200 Duke is the personification of lightness rediscovered combined with maximum riding fun, powerful propulsion, and optimum user value, all of which was accomplished through KTM’s unmistakable thoroughbred motorcycle technology. Comfort is essential for a bike of the 200 Duke’s built, and KTM paid careful attention to it by designing a two-piece seat that provides surprising long-distance comfort, perfect support, and first-class ergonomics for rider and pillion. At 810 mm, the seat height is low enough for a secure standing position, but also high enough for sports-oriented use and a genuine big-bike feeling. The 200 Duke also has a featherweight chassis that comes with high-quality components and first-class brakes. The bike carries a high-quality upside-down fork from WP Suspension with the same 43 mm outer tube diameter as the RC8 R, which is a true statement of the bike’s overall comfort and versatility. The compact, three-chamber silencer is positioned close to the machine’s overall center of gravity. This aids centralization of masses and improves the playful handling of the 200 Duke. Not only noise, but emission levels are also exemplary thanks to the regulated catalytic converter. At the heart of the 200 Duke is another improvement for the 2012 model: a state-of-the-art, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder four-stroke engine that generates 60% more displacement and correspondingly fully developed power to the tune of 25 horses. Add the new camshafts, bigger valves, a larger piston with a completely new crank drive, new airbox and a new exhaust layout, and it all results in a bike that offers punchy torque with irresistible smoothness. Engine

No minor development: Based on the state-of-the-art, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder four-stroke engine of the 125 Duke, the 200 Duke’s power unit has been changed substantially to generate 60 % more displacement and correspondingly fully developed power. New camshafts, bigger valves, a larger piston with a completely new crank drive, new airbox and new exhaust layout. It all results in 19 kW (25 hp) and incredibly punchy torque, even at lower revs – with irresistible smoothness. Just like the RC8 R, two overhead camshafts in the new 200 Duke’s cylinder head actuate four valves by means of cam levers. This design is not only extremely reliable, but the cam levers are coated with ultra-hard carbon which minimizes friction - releasing even more power. The intricate engine design, state-of-the-art injection electronics and the close-ratio, six-speed transmission not only help the 200 Duke to achieve impressive performance, but also moderate fuel consumption. Thanks to the regulated catalytic converter, it produces only minimal emissions Chassis and Suspension

19 kW (25 hp) Power and an unladen weight of only 126 kg guarantee tremendous, fleet-footed riding fun with the 200 Duke. The first-class chassis, with lightweight tubular space frame in the proven KTM design, turns it into a real surfer through the curves. Weight grouped close to the center of gravity maximize maneuverability and precision. The 200 Duke’s high-quality upside-down fork from WP Suspension has the same 43 mm outer tube diameter as the RC8 R – in other words, real racing equipment that guarantees highest levels of stability and precision. The new 200 Duke’s lightweight, high-quality, die-cast swingarm is designed and produced according to the same principle as the 690 Duke. The light alloy swingarm with directly linked WP shock absorber excels with extreme torsional stiffness and outstanding tracking stability. Brakes and Wheels

With the powerful, outstandingly controllable brake system developed by KTM in collaboration with Brembo and the perfect grip of the wide tires, the rider always has the lightweight motorcycle under control. At the front, a radial four-piston brake caliper bites onto a 280 mm brake disc. Equally lightweight and delicate as they are stable, the 17 in cast light alloy wheels are fitted with a 110 mm tire at the front and an impressive 150 mm at the rear. The tires impress with tremendous grip in both wet and dry conditions, as well as providing supreme durability. Cockpit

The 200 Duke has everything that distinguishes a genuine KTM - from the high-quality chassis components to the multi-function cockpit, which even keeps you up to date with fuel consumption and remaining range. The extensive KTM PowerParts range gives you the option of adding your own individual style. Ergonomics

The new 200 Duke is also a genuine motorcycle in terms of dimensions, providing plenty of space and freedom of movement. The gathered sitting position supports relaxed touring equally as well as committed cornering. Large contact surfaces ensure optimum control and perfect feedback. Specifications

Design Single-Cylinder, 4-Stroke, Spark-Ignition Engine, Liquid-Cooled Displacement 200 Cm³ Bore 72 Mm Stroke 49 Mm Starting Aid Electric Starter Transmission 6-Speed, Claw Shifted Engine Lubrication Forced Oil Lubrication With 1 Rotor Pump Primary Gear Ratio 22:72 Secondary Gear Ratio 14:43 Cooling System Liquid Cooling System, Continuous Circulation Of Cooling Liquid With Water Pump Clutch Clutch In Oil Bath / Mechanically Operated Ignition System Contactless, Controlled, Fully Electronic Ignition System With Digital Ignition Timing Adjustment Frame Tubular Space Frame Made From Steel Tubes, Powder-Coated Fork WP Suspension 4357 Shock Absorber WP Suspension 4618 EM Suspension Travel Front 150 Mm Suspension Travel Rear 150 Mm Brake System Front Disc Brake With Two-Pot Brake Caliper Brake System Rear Disc Brake With One-Pot Brake Caliper, Floating Brake Discs Brake Discs - Diameter Front 300 Mm Brake Discs - Diameter Rear 230 Mm Chain 5/8 X 1/4” (520) O‑Ring Steering Head Angle 65° Wheel Base 1,361±15 Mm Ground Clearance (Unloaded) 170 Mm Seat Height (Unloaded) 810 Mm Total Fuel Tank Capacity Approx. 10.5 L Unleaded Premium Fuel (95 RON) Weight Without Fuel Approx. 125 Kg Quotes Total Motorcycle----"The main difference is a larger displacement, expanded to 199.5 cc by a new cylinder with a 72 mm bore and 49 mm stroke. Complementing these are a newly developed cylinder head and valves, as well as new intake and exhaust systems specially designed by KTM for the 200. These developments increase power to a strapping 19 KW (26 hp) besides giving it a beautifully rounded power curve, highlighting once more the sporting DNA of this state-of-the-art single cylinder design. While the 125 Duke offers an excellent performance for its class, the 200 Duke has the punch of a real motorbike, not the least due to its very low weight of only 127 kg. The powerful new engine is backed by the well-known trellis frame, as well as outstanding suspension and braking components. This makes the 200 Duke essentially KTM – simply one of the best small sport bikes for any day of the week." Motorcycle----"The KTM Duke fires up and emits an enjoyable, deep exhaust rumble. Its clutch is well weighted and progressive, and gears shift with precise action. Throttle response is immediate and decisive from its large 38mm throttle body, although we did notice the fueling feeling unsettled between a narrow range just over idle to 3000 rpm, where we had to play the throttle to keep revs up and the engine firing smoothly."

Mazda MX-5 2012

One would think that a car like this would never need any upgrades but Mazda has seen fit to sweeten the MX-5 a bit more. And it is now available for purchase in Japan. Both versions, the soft-top and power retractable hard top (RHT), have been given its own points of differentiation. Black-coloured highlights are used for the soft-top in line with its ‘tight sports’ concept while silver is employed for the RHT for its ‘premium sports’ concept. See how both colours are employed in the table below:

And we’ve just scratched the surface. The MX-5 has also been given a reworked face. The front grille is larger and the front chin spoiler is new, as well as the front fog lamp bezel. Mazda has dropped the Metropolitan Grey Mica colour and replaced it with Dolphin Grey Mica. Inside, the convertible gets a new colour, Glossy Dark Gray, which is used for the decoration panel and steering wheel bezel. The colour becomes an option for the soft-top S grade. There are more choices of colour and fabric to wrap your seats with – tan leather seats, black fabric, black leather and a combination of Alcantara.

Mazda has also made the roadster more ‘jinba ittai’… if that made any sense. There are fine adjustments made to the throttle management program to make the roadster more responsive when accelerating out of corners, which Mazda says that this also creates a linear and nimble feel. By the way, this enhanced acceleration control is only for roadsters outfitted with the manual transmission. Sorry auto users. The brakes have been uprated, too. Specifically, there are changes made to the brake booster’s characteristics so it is easier to control the front and rear load distribution. This enhancement applies for all.

What else? The MX-5 gets a new pedestrian safety feature. It is called active bonnet and it automatically raises the rear end of the bonnet when the sensors detect an impact. It will only work at certain vehicle speeds and when the computer thinks the impact have exceeded predetermined levels. The take back from this is that the raised bonnet acts to absorb impact energy and reduce the chance of serious head injuries. In spite of all the extras, Mazda has said that they have kept the weight down especially on the re-designed front bumper, active bonnet, 17 inch aluminium wheels and internal wiring. Prices (with tax) for the Mazda MX-5 starts from JPY2,330,000 for the soft-top S grade up to JPY2,920,000 for the VS RHT. If you haven’t already, make sure you read about the MX-5 GT Concept. It gives much drool.

Renault Megane RS Red Bull Racing RB7

This is the Renault Megane RS Red Bull Racing RB7, an expected limited edition after Renault Sport introduced similar examples of the Twingo and Clio previously. It will be available in 24 countries, starting with Austria this month. As with the Clio and Twingo, the Megane RB7 comes in Etoilé Black body colour, contrasted with yellow on the front bumper spoiler, mirrors and rear diffuser. The roof gets a chequered-flag pattern decal and F1 team’s logos can be found on the doors. Things that mark it out inside are a unique gear lever knob and a numbered plaque.

There’s a new mechanical feature in the form of Stop&Start technology for the 2.0L turbo engine, which makes 265 PS and 360 Nm of torque in the latest Megane RS. This brings combined fuel consumption down by 0.7L per 100 km to 7.5L per 100 km. CO2 emissions are down 16 g/km, bringing the eco-surtax down by €550 from €1,300 in France. Selecting Sport mode will give you the full 265 PS, but will deactivate the idle stop system. It works in Normal mode, where max power is restricted to 250 PS. Not the end of the world, since that’s still 40 PS more than a Golf GTI!

Renault Koleos and Cleo RS

Well, it seems not all is at it seems, at least not with the pricing of the just launched Renault Koleos facelift and the Clio R.S “Ange & Demon.” The price as stated in TC Euro Cars’ PDF press release mentioned that “the Koleos and Clio R.S. “Ange & Demon” will be retailed at RM199,426.80 and RM223,810.70 respectively.” Turns out the prices were inadvertently flipped – TCE called earlier this morning to say that it’s their bad, and the Clio R.S is the one that’s supposed to be RM199,426, which is just a shade over the Clio R.S 200 Cup’s price of RM199,000. Thus, the Koleos, which was mentioned in the news story as being cheaper than its predecessor, is not. At RM223,810, this increases the entry fee into the Koleos world by 10k over the original, which was priced at RM213k when introduced. Pricing for both cars are on-the-road, excluding insurance. The prices have been corrected in the respective stories, which have also been amended to reflect the changes. Sometimes, it pays to check and check again. Paultan.org

Ferrari SP12 EC – Eric Clapton’s one-off is a 458 Italia with styling inspired by the 512 BB

You’re looking at a one-off belonging to guitar master Eric Clapton, a Ferrari enthusiast and owner. Designed by Centro Stile Ferrari in collaboration with Pininfarina and the engineers from Maranello, this Ferrari “SP12 EC” was created as homage to Clapton’s career and his experience as a Ferrari owner. Clapton is very attached to one particular Ferrari, so much so that he owned three of them over the years. The model in question is the 512 BB of the late 70s. So his desire was to drive a car inspired by the Berlinetta Boxer, based on the modern 458 Italia of today.

“Meticulous attention in terms of style and technology was paid to the proportions and architecture of the SP12 EC – which is part of Ferrari’s One-Off Programme – making this exceptional car even more significant. Just like music is created, applying the right notes in the right places to build a musical score, so was the creative process behind the Ferrari SP12 EC,” Ferrari said in a statement. Following through with the project was “one of the most satisfying things I’ve ever done,” said Clapton. I remember the V12 powered 512 BB as one of the top trumps in top trumps, and there are definately hints of the old timer in this reworked 458. Classic looks on a modern icon – never thought I’d call a 458 graceful!

Perodua Wolfrace Design Limited Edition – UK Only

Oh hello. It seems that Perodua in the UK is not done with the previous generation Myvi just yet because they have just launched the new Myvi Wolfrace Design. This comes from the concept car that was unveiled last year. The car will be fitted with 17-inch Wolfrace Brooklands alloy wheels and adorned with a silver and red graphics kit including stripes along both sides of the vehicle with chequered flags. Wolfrace Design logo will be displayed on the rear doors and tailgate. The exclusive black and silver front entry guards will be individually numbered from one to ten.

Future owners can have their car painted in either Ebony Black or Medallion Grey. The car is available with manual transmission. The Myvi Wolfrace will be exclusive, only 10 units will be built and it will be on your driveway for just £7,999. Top up an additional £1,000 and your limited edition car will be further tricked out with a sport style leather/Alcantara interior. All owners will also take home a Wolfrace travel mug courtesy of Wolfrace Wheels (UK) Limited.

Hyundai Elantra Coupe 2012

Hyundai has introduced its new two-door Elantra Coupe at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show. Designed at Hyundai’s North American Design Center in Irvine, California, the car continues on the company’s dynamic “Fluidic Sculpture” design principles, with a signature hexagonal front fascia opening and jewelled swept-back headlights giving it a lean, aggressive demeanour.
Other design cues include a blacked-out diffuser valance, dual chrome-tipped exhaust tips and a boot lid incorporating a lip spoiler design element at the rear. On the SE version, the car rides on five-spoke 17-inch alloys.

The car is equipped with a 1.8 litre Nu D-CVVT petrol engine, offering 148 hp at 6,500 rpm and 178Nm of torque at 4,700 rpm, with a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions to be had.
Standard kit includes Vehicle Stability Management, ESC, TCS, ABS with brake assist and EBD, as well as six airbags (front, front side and side curtain), and features on the Coupe include a 7-inch touchscreen navigation system with rearview camera and iPod/USB inputs, Bluetooth and push-button ignition.

SPYSHOT: Proton P3-21A Persona R rear uncovered

Here’s another leaked shot of the soon to be launched Proton P3-21A, posted over at funtasticko. Don’t mind the slightly misaligned bootlid, it’s probably because the boot was not shut properly. The horizontal strip running across the bootlid is similiar to the one found on the Proton Exora – although it’s body coloured here, perhaps like the Exora it will be finished in chrome on high end models. What do you think of the design so far? It’s quite a departure from the Proton Tuah Concept eh?

Source : Paultan.org

Honda Integra 2012 - Motorcycle

Honda is bringing back the name Honda Integra to one of its products, but unfortunately it’s not the sports coupe with the screaming high-revving engine that we used to know and love. The 2012 Honda Integra is actually a motorcycle with a scooter-ish riding position which puts the rider’s feet further forward than a motorcycle.
The new Honda Integra uses a 51 hp water-cooled 700cc inline-two engine, which Honda says offers the compact dimensions of an inline engine and the character of a V-twin thanks to a 270 degree throw crankshaft. It’s a long-stroke engine, with a 73 mm x 80 mm bore-stroke ratio for its cylinders, so this should generally mean an engine designed to provide lots of low to mid end torque instead of being a screamer, which should suit this kind of bike.

The Integra also gets a second-generation Dual Clutch Transmission which is lighter and more compact than the version first used in the VFR1200F. It has a simplified hydraulic circuit, among other design enhancements. A learning function has been added to each selected running mode to detect a variety of riding environments from city streets to mountain passes and automatically performs the most suitable shift logic. You can also stick to a 6-speed manual if you want.
Honda estimates a fuel economy of 27 km/L for the Integra. Being a bike instead of a car, the new Honda Integra will debut at the 69th EICMA International Motorcycle Exhibition instead of the upcoming Tokyo Motor Show.