Weekend Octane, Kuala Lumpur (2025)

11/01/2025

Toyota Reveals Mid-Engine GR Yaris M Concept with 2.0L Turbo

Toyota has taken its rally-bred GR Yaris to uncharted territory with the unveiling of the GR Yaris M Concept, a mid-engine pocket rocket.

The GR Yaris, often hailed as a performance icon disguised as a compact hatchback, has always punched well above its weight with its 300-horsepower, all-wheel-drive setup derived from its 1.6-liter “G16E-GTS” turbocharged three-cylinder. But for the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon, Toyota has raised the stakes by swapping out the front-mounted engine for a mid-mounted four-cylinder beast—the G20E turbo.

The GR Yaris M will debut in the Super Taikyu Series, where it’ll be pushed to its limits by Akio Toyoda’s Rookie Racing team. With a fresh layout and next-gen engineering, Toyota is turning this rally icon into something even wilder.

Is the GR Yaris M Concept a game-changer for small performance cars? Only time—and the race track—will tell.

📷 Toyota

10/01/2025

Honda Malaysia Launches New Civic with Google Built-In

The New Honda Civic is here, packed with cutting-edge tech, sleek design updates, and powerful performance:
• Google Built-In: Access Google Assistant, Maps, and Play seamlessly on the 9” Advanced Display Audio.
• Powerful Performance:
• e:HEV RS hybrid: 2.0L engine, 184PS, 315Nm torque, paired with e-CVT for top-notch efficiency.
• Petrol RS: 1.5L VTEC Turbo, 182PS, 240Nm torque for thrilling drives.
• Enhanced Honda CONNECT: Smarter with 4 new features like Light & Horn remote locator.
• Bold New Look:
• Exclusive Canyon River Blue Metallic.
• RS variants get striking black accents and 18” Matte Grey alloys.
• Next-Level Safety: Standard Honda SENSING suite includes ACC, CMBS, LKAS, and more.
• Comfort & Convenience:
• 9” display supports Wireless Apple CarPlay™ & Android Auto™.
• RS variants add a wireless charger, 10.2” TFT Meter, and sporty interior accents.

Prices start at RM133,900. Visit honda.com.my or a dealership to test drive.

06/11/2024

Toyota unveiled the GR86 Rally Legacy Concept at SEMA 2024, celebrating its motorsport roots with rally-inspired styling and engineering. This concept takes the GR86’s performance to new heights, adding suspension upgrades, a custom aero kit, and all-terrain tires to handle rugged terrains. Designed to capture the spirit of Toyota’s rally history, it also pays homage to the company’s WRC legacy. The GR86 Rally Legacy Concept merges modern tech with Toyota’s passion for racing, offering a bold vision of high-performance rallying in a compact, powerful package.

28/10/2024

BRABUS ROCKET GTS - SL 63 based Shooting Brake made of carbon fibre.

4.5-liter twin-turbo V8 engine paired with a hybrid system.

Combined power output 1000 hp | Torque 1820 Nm (Electronically limited to 1620 Nm) | 0-100 km/h 2.7 s | Top speed 317 km/h *Electronically limited

Increased displacement to 4.5 liters consisting of:
• Precisely balanced special crankshaft machined from solid material with stroke 100 mm
• 8 special connecting rods milled from solid material
• 8 forged pistons for bore 84 mm and adapted compression height
• 2x BRABUS special turbocharger
• Down Pipe Ø 75 mm
• Back-pressure reducing BRABUS metal catalyst system
• Additional engine control unit PowerXtra B40E-1000

Externally, the Rocket GTS is the ultimate fusion of bold design and power. With a sleek and menacing hyper gran turismo shooting brake silhouette made entirely of exposed high strength carbon, combined with a fitting stance that’s both wide and low.

The optimal balance of aerodynamic downforce on the front and rear axles, made possible by perfectly fine-tuned aerodynamic components, guarantees outstanding driving stability even far beyond the 300 km/h mark. Beyond creating perfect transitions to the wide front fenders, the Rocket GTS front apron reduces lift on the front axle at high speeds with its integrated spoiler. Large air intakes direct the airflow to the radiators and the front brakes.

Source & Photo: Brabus

13/10/2024

Toyota Returns to F1 in Partnership with Haas

Toyota is set to make a sensational return to Formula 1 for the first time since their departure in 2009. The Japanese manufacturer has signed a multi-year technical partnership with the Haas F1 Team, effective immediately. This marks Toyota’s re-entry into the world of F1 after years of focusing on other motorsports, notably through its highly successful Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR) division.

The partnership will see Toyota collaborate with Haas on various fronts, including design, technical expertise, and manufacturing services. According to the agreement, TGR will offer its resources to support Haas in enhancing their competitiveness in the sport. In return, Haas will share their technical knowledge and help boost Toyota’s commercial interests.

Interestingly, this new deal will operate alongside Haas’ existing arrangement with Ferrari. Since entering Formula 1 in 2016, Haas has been reliant on Ferrari’s power units and gearboxes, a relationship that will remain intact. Additionally, Haas will continue to utilize Ferrari’s wind tunnel for aerodynamic testing.

This strategic alliance signifies Toyota’s desire to regain a foothold in F1 without immediately taking on the burden of being a full-fledged constructor. Instead, they will work alongside Haas to share insights and expertise as Formula 1 heads into a new era of technological regulations.

While the terms of the partnership haven’t been fully disclosed, this move undoubtedly signals a bold new chapter for both teams as they look to climb the ranks in the highly competitive F1 grid.

What to Expect:

• Toyota will offer design, technical, and manufacturing services.
• Ferrari will continue to supply Haas with power units and gearboxes.
• Haas will provide technical expertise and commercial benefits to Toyota.

📷 Source: Toyota Gazoo Racing Press Release

10/10/2024

GWM Launches the HAVAL H6 HEV in Malaysia at RM139,800!

GWM Malaysia proudly introduces the GWM HAVAL H6 HEV, a hybrid C-segment SUV packed with advanced tech, sleek design, and great performance.

10-year engine warranty, 8-year HEV system warranty, and 7-year full vehicle coverage.

Power & Performance:
1.5L turbo hybrid engine, 243 PS, and 530 Nm torque, with fuel consumption of 5.8L/100km.

📅 Join the GWM Family Day: 18-20 Oct 2024 to explore the full GWM lineup!

Terms apply.

09/10/2024

BYD Auto Industry Co., Ltd. held a signing ceremony today at Sunway Resort Hotel, appointing Sime Darby Auto Imports Sdn. Bhd. as the official importer and BYD Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. as the distributor for Denza, BYD’s premium EV sub-brand, in Malaysia. This marks the beginning of Denza’s entry into the Malaysian market, bringing luxury electric vehicles with advanced technology and features. BYD aims to offer Malaysians a more innovative and premium EV experience through Denza.

09/10/2024

Tokyo Auto Salon Kuala Lumpur 2024 is back and bigger than ever! From 8-10 November 2024 at MITEC, car lovers and JDM fans can enjoy an epic three-day event with over 300 tuned cars, including 15 from Japan!

Highlights:

• A chance to win a Honda Civic FK8R Type R Mugen!
• Drifting demos, car club meetups, racing simulators, and more.
• Iconic tuner Smoky Nagata from Top Secret will make a return.
• Exhibits from top brands like Veilside, Greddy, and Tomica.

Grab exclusive merchandise featuring legendary JDM models, plus a 5% discount for online purchases. Don’t miss out!

Exciting news from the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon Kuala Lumpur press conference!

Get ready for an unforgettable automotive experience! Stay tuned for more updates and secure your tickets today at https://tickets.tokyoautosalonkl.com 🎟️

📸 source: TASKL FB

27/09/2024

BFGoodrich has launched its new All-Terrain T/A KO3 tyre in Malaysia, adding to its popular All-Terrain range.

BFGoodrich developed the KO3 tire to satisfy the evolving needs of off-road consumers by incorporating the latest tire technologies into a tire that delivers even stronger performance and benefits than the KO2 tire – improved traction, treadwear and toughness.

Specifically, the KO3 tire has improved wear performance, improved gravel road durability, and improved snow traction while maintaining the sidewall toughness and soft soil traction of the KO2 tire. The KO3 tire carries a 50,000-mile warranty and a 60-day satisfaction guarantee.

10/09/2024

Malaysia will host a round of the Autobacs SUPER GT for three years beginning with the first race scheduled for 27-28 June in 2025 at the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit.

This follows the signing of an agreement between HARO Sports & Entertainment as the rights holder and promoter for the Malaysian round of the SUPER GT and the GT Association (GTA) as the rights holders for SUPER GT. The agreement to host the race from 2025-2027 was signed between HARO Sports & Entertainment Managing Partner Fahrizal Hasan and GTA President and Chief Executive Officer Masaaki Bandoh, witnessed by Deputy Minister Of Tourism, Arts And Culture Yang Berhormat Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan. Also present at the event were PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit Chief Executive Officer Azhan Shafriman Hanif and Motorsports Association of Malaysia (MAM) Secretary- General S. N. Nanthan.

The Malaysian round of the 2025 Autobacs SUPER GT race will be the third round of the 2025 race calendar which features a total of eight rounds – seven of which will take place in various circuits within Japan. Malaysia will remain as the ONLY overseas race for Super GT.

Tentatively, the opening round will be held at the Okayama International Circuit on 12-13 April followed by Round 2 at Fuji Speedway on 3-4 May and Round 3 in Malaysia. Round 4 will again be held at Fuji Speedway on 2-3 August before moving to the Suzuka Circuit for Round 5 on 23-24 August. The final three rounds will be held at Sportsland Sugo on 20-21 September; the Autopolis International Racing Course on 18-19 October and Mobility Resort Motegi on 1-2 November.

SUPER GT will feature the top manufacturers and drivers from Japan competing in the GT500 and GT300 Classes, attracting the best of Japanese manufacturers. The GT 500 manufacturers include Toyota, Honda and Nissan while the GT300 entrants are Subaru and Lexus.

The last time Malaysia hosted a round of the SUPER GT was in June 2013 –11 years ago. The PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit hosted the first overseas race for SUPER GT in 2000 and 2001 when it was then known as the All-Japan Grand Touring Championship.

13/07/2024

Toyota GR Corolla Body kit from Varis.

Japanese tuner Varis releases an aftermarket styling kit for the Toyota GR Corolla. It costs around USD6590, rear splitter not included.

12/07/2024

GWM Tank 300 launched in Malaysia.
2.0L Turbocharged 4 cylinder Petrol Engine
217Hp 380Nm
8 Speed transmission

This intelligent, luxury off-road SUV is fully imported (CBU) from China. The GWM TANK 300 is priced competitively at RM 250,000, ready to set new benchmarks in the automotive industry.

GWM offers the first 300 GWM TANK 300 customers:

(1) Five years / 100,000km of free service maintenance, including labour and parts, applicable every 10,000 KM or every 6 months, whichever comes first.

(2) Enjoy an unlimited mileage Lifetime Warranty for Engine & Transmission (limited to first-hand owner).

(3) Receive a GWM x Thule Adventure Kit, which includes an RM8,000 Thule Voucher and a Thule Paramount Backpack worth RM999.

(4) Series of Adventure Trip with GWM TANK – Station 1: ChongQing and ChengDu, China. In conjunction with the launch of GWM TANK 300, customers who have completed their vehicle registration by August 12th, 2024, will have the chance to win an Adventure Trip with GWM TANK to ChongQing and ChengDu, China. Ten customers will be selected through a lucky draw contest.

GWM TANK 300 Off-Road Test Drive Experience GWM will host a GWM TANK 300 off-road test drive event on July 20th and 21st, 2024 at M4TREC, a 4WD training and experience centre in Semenyih, Selangor allowing the public to test out the performance and capabilities of this off-road SUV in challenging different road conditions.

To book an off-road test drive experience, RSVP now at https://forms.gle/Xi7ZuvMPo9jDJwEW9

09/07/2024

TRIUMPHS, TRIALS AND TRIBULATIONS FOR HAIKAL BROTHERS AT THE BANGSAEN STREEET CIRCUIT

Hayden Haikal was in top form last weekend as he drove to back to back race wins in the Super Eco Class of the Thailand Super Series, and clinched a hard-fought 3rd place in the GT4 Class race at the Bangsaen Street Circuit last weekend.

Celebrating his 20th birthday on the same racing weekend, Hayden’s pace around the 3.7km circuit went literally unmatched as he qualified fastest, went on to win both races and also set the fastest lap time during the race in his V-Are Pro Garage Racing Team Suzuki Swift.

“I really gave it my all, and once in front it was a case of just pushing as hard as I could to the finish. I never let up,” said Hayden who finished Race 1 some 13.9 seconds and Race 2 4.2 seconds ahead of his nearest rival.

Pulling double duty and then jumping into the Malaysian team Racing Aurora Mercedes-Benz AMG GT4 car, the young man had his sights on winning at Bangsaen but the one-hour Race 1 was cut short and brought out the red flag due to an on-track incident which placed him 3rd. In race 2, Hayden was again fighting for the lead but midway through, back marker traffic veered into his racing line sending him off line into the barriers, essentially ending his race.

“We had the pace to win both races, the car felt great and my confidence around Bangsaen was at an all-time high. Race 2 was very unfortunate and rather than risk anymore damage to the car, the team and I decided to retire.”

For younger brother Aaron, his first time competing in a street circuit also yielded his fair share of trials and tribulations. In Race 1, the 16-year-old was the biggest gainer having shot his way up from starting 14th on the grid to finish 7th and also earning himself 2nd in Class on the podium.

Driving for the Thai-based Pipekids Pakelo Lubricants Racing Team, he was again running as high as 7th in race 2 amongst the main pack, but had to make an unscheduled stop due to a broken driveshaft to his Honda Brio sedan.
“All in all it was a very challenging race weekend. The team was only able to get in 15 minutes of practice before the qualifying session began. And qualifying didn’t go all that well for me when I found myself caught in traffic and finished 14th quickest from a grid of 34 drivers. “

05/07/2024

Signify and Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula 1 Team launch new partnership to drive responsible innovation on and off the track

Signify (Euronext: LIGHT), the world leader in lighting, announces a new partnership with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team. Connected by their shared passion for technological innovation and sustainability the partnership will drive forward the team's vision of becoming one of the world’s most sustainable professional sports teams.

Signify and Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 are committed to responsible innovation, founded on a shared belief that performance should not come at any cost and that sustainability does not compromise on performance. As both teams continue to drive the transformation of their industries, responsible innovation elevates performance and leads to sustainable outcomes.

Signify has led the transformation and decarbonization of the lighting sector, and recently announced its 2040 Climate Transition Plan, setting out its vision to reach net-zero by 2040. The company has reduced GHG emissions across the full value chain by 50% since 2019 and continues to advocate for energy efficiency and an accelerated energy transition. With the new partnership, comes a commitment from Signify to share knowledge and expertise to support Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team in developing its Climate Transition Plan.

26/06/2024

2025 BMW M5 Revealed!

- 4.4L V8 M Hybrid
- 727Hp
- 1000Nm
- 305km/h top speed with optional M Driver's Package
- The exterior design speaks Presense and Performance.

25/06/2024

Tokyo Auto Salon Kuala Lumpur returns for a second year-running from 8-10 November 2024 at the Malaysia International Trade & Exhibition Centre (MITEC), with tickets available for purchase from today for early birds at an attractive discount.

Tickets can be purchased online from https://tickets.tokyoautosalonkl.com/. Early bird purchases are restricted to the first 5,000 purchasers or until 31 July 2024, whichever comes first.

For more information and enquiries, visit www.tokyoautosalonkl.com or visit the Tokyo Auto Salon Kuala Lumpur social media platforms on Facebook, Instagram and Tik-Tok.

31/05/2024

2024 BMW M3 G80 (M3 Sedan) and G81 (M3 Touring) gets new styling and optimised power for the Competition M xDrive.

G80 comes in 3 variants:
M3 Sedan
M3 Competition Sedan
M3 Competition xDrive

Meanwhile, the G81 M3 Touring, only offered in Competition with M xDrive.

Production set to commence some time in July 2024.

26/05/2024

Malaysia Autoshow 2024: The Ultimate Auto Experience!
[BIKES]
Fuel your weekend with high-octane excitement at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024! Dive into a world of speed and innovation with thrilling car displays, interactive exhibits, and live performances from the best in the automotive industry. Join for a weekend packed with fun, adrenaline, and the latest in automotive technology!
Malaysia Autoshow

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