Junaidah binti Abdullah celebrating with her family after winning the grand prize – brand new BMW 118i from the #belihelix promotion 

The top 5 winners with the management of BRUNEI Shell Marketing Co Sdn Bhd (BSM) during the prize presentation 

49-year-old Junaidah binti Abdullah from RPN Kampong Mentiri is now the new owner of the brand new BMW 118i after she became the sole winner of the BRUNEI Shell Marketing Co Sdn Bhd (BSM) #belihelix promotion that had more than 20,000 entries. According to the interview, she sells delicacies from home and of all person, she didn’t expect to win a prize, let alone the grand prize.

During the games, she had assistance from her husband who signalled her to choose the right key. From six possible keys (to unlock the BMW), it went down to the wire as Junaidah and Izzah Hazwanah Harun squared off in the final phase. The first two guesses from both finalists brought no luck until the 3rd attempt by Junaidah settled the tension as she managed to start the BMW in front of the huge crowd at Times Square Shopping Centre.

Izzah settled for second prize which was fitting for her as she can go on a honeymoon as she won a Dubai tour package for two persons. Mohamad Daud bin Taha won himself a BND 2,500 cash card while the consolation winners Nur Musaddad bin Hadanan took home, a Samsung 55’’ Smart LED TV and Ling Wah Hwang won a 13.3″ Macbook Air.

Presenting the prizes and motor oil to the winners was Pengiran Shamhary bin Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Mustapha, BSM’s Managing Director.

Not to worry for those who didn’t win any prizes as BSM launched another #beliheix promotion for the public. This time you have a chance to win the latest Nissan X-Trail followed by other prizes such as a Hong Kong Travel Package, BND 2,500 cash prize and consolation prizes too.

According to BSM representatives, their promotion has been a success and the public are gaining more confidence with their (shell) products. Keep up the great work and hope the branding of Shell remains strong in Brunei Darussalam.

 

 

Izzah Hazwanah Harun winning a Dubai Tour package for two 

Nur Musaddad bin Hadanan won a Samsung 55’’ Smart LED TV 

A historic moment for the grand winner 

 

 

Now you can stand a chance to win the latest Nissan X-trail 

l 

 

Check out the new Audi Q5 

 

The new Audi Q5 boast many improvements- a stronger Q design identity, better driving experience with new quattro technology coupled with a new 7-speed dual clutch gearbox and maximum everyday usability. A quieter car thanks to improved aero-acoustics and best in-class drag co efficiency (0.30). Standard for Brunei will be 19” wheels.

The test drive was pretty successful and many of them praised the handling and the features available on the Audi Q5. They even compared it with other brands and impressed with the quality and it’s also price competitively in the market. Have you actually test driven the Audi Q5? Do visit their showroom at Kiarong and give the Q5 a run. You’ll be impressed.

 

 

 

 

New Audi A4 S line Black Styling

TCY Motors Sdn Bhd has introduced a new variant from its Audi A4 sedan line.

The Audi A4 S line Black Styling features the Audi A4 2.0 TFSI Ultra (190hp/320Nm) with all it’s exterior highlights in gloss black in place of the standard aluminium/chrome. this includes the S line rear diffuser, tailgate spoiler and side skirts. An exclusive 18″ 10-Y spoke in matching black gloss wheels rounds off the entire package.

Also new on this variant are built-in rear passenger window blinds which were previously not available. The S line Black Styling will also be available soon for the more powerful A4 with quattro AWD. For an up close viewing the public can visit Audi Kiarong during opening hours.

 

 

The Audi A4 S line Black Styling 

 

Now whenever you drop off your Audi at our Service Centre, we’ll chauffeur you in an Audi to your desired destination!* For inquiries and booking please call 2395101/102 during operating hours. *within Brunei only 

 

The Peugeot 5008 Allure and the Peugeot 5008 being featured outside T Lounge, located in Little Soho Building at Jalan Batu Bersurat 

T.C.Y. Motors, the sole distributor of Peugeot in Brunei held a media test drive of the all-new Peugeot 5008 SUV on February 8, 2018. A mini presentation of the all- new 5008’s new feature was also shown at T Lounge, located in Little Soho Building at Jalan Batu Bersurat.

The all-new Peugeot 5008 which was newly launched SUV in Brunei of this year, currently has been awarded the “Best Large SUV” 2018 of UK’s leading car-buying website, What Car?.

The main purpose of this event is to let the local media to have the experience first-hand of what the all-new Peugeot 5008 SUV has to give. And through this, Peugeot Brunei could easily convey to the public through the media’s own opinion about the new SUV.

Its name hasn’t changed, but everything else has. The all-new PEUGEOT 5008 breaks new ground as a large seven-seater SUV in the C segment. As a new contender in this promising consumer market, the newly unveiled PEUGEOT 5008 SUV aims to achieve three objectives:
• to pursue the brand’s move up-market strategy
• to be an international success
• to become the leading (benchmark) C-segment large seven-seater SUV.

 

 

A rare colour to be seen in Brunei. 

Quite spacious as when you fold all the individual seats 

Jack Chin being briefed on the special features inside the Peugeot 5008 

The all-new PEUGEOT i-Cockpit® elevates the passenger compartment!
Inside, the driver’s environment is unique with the newest version of the innovative, almost futuristic – PEUGEOT i-Cockpit®, which offers vehicle occupants a novel driving experience that both surprises and delights. With its compact steering wheel, a large 8” touchscreen dashboard and a spectacular 12.3” high-resolution digital head-up display, the new PEUGEOT i-Cockpit® impresses drivers with its superior graphics and elegant animations.

Spacious interior and with more functions
The 2.84m wheelbase of the new 5008 SUV makes it the most liveable of C-segment SUVs! The overall length of the vehicle (4.64m) remains compact as the new PEUGEOT 5008 SUV – though 19cm longer than the all-new PEUGEOT 3008 SUV and 11cm longer than the original version of the 5008 – is still one of the most conservatively proportioned and its extra length makes it roomier for passengers. The vehicle’s optimised architecture is only part of the package on offer. The new
PEUGEOT 5008 is more than just an SUV.

It stands out in the market with an innovative configuration:
• three matching, separate, folding seats in the second row, adjustable in length and inclination
• two removable, separate, folding seats in the third row.
• The biggest boot capacity with 780 dm3 VDA 210 (1060 litres)

The all-new PEUGEOT 5008 SUV can also have foldable front passenger seat (to carry especially long loads up to 3.20 m) and a practical hands-free motorised tailgate.

An SUV with an imposing exterior
One look will recognise that the all-new PEUGEOT 5008 is a real SUV. All the hallmarks are there: long, horizontal bonnet; vertical face; and raised body line. The inspired design conveys power and respect. Its height remains the same.

This gives it a long and dynamic profile. At the front, the wide grille with chrome fins is exclusive, while the rear design features the gloss black strip and the signature LED ‘claw effect’ rear lights that set the latest breed of PEUGEOT SUVs apart.

Driving and traveling pleasure that rivals the best touring vehicles
This new PEUGEOT is an invitation to travel—in luxury, not least because it has excellent sound insulation and a number of features for the comfort of all on board: body-hugging front seats feature, large panoramic opening glass roof etc. It proposes also the best in permanent connectivity with the Mirror Screen function and navigation system.

Cutting-edge Advanced Driver Assistance Systems make driving even safer with an arsenal of safety features Advanced Grip Control – including new exclusive Hill Assist Descent Control (HADC), Automatic Emergency Braking System (AEBS), Distance Alert, Active Lane Keeping Assistance (LKA), Driver attention warning, Smart Beam Assistance, Speed sign recognition and speed suggestion, Adaptive cruise control with stop feature (automatic gearbox), Active blind spot monitoring, Park Assist and Visio Park (360° vision).

 

 

 

 

 

 

Test drive the Audi Q5 this weekend 

After a successful media preview last week, TCY Motors Sdn Bhd will organize a two-day launch for the 2018 Audi Q5 at its showroom in Kiarong.

Taking place on Friday 2nd and Saturday 3rd February at Audi Kiarong, invited guests and the public can experience Audi’s most successful premium mid-sized XUV with a 3 stage product demonstration including a guided test-drive, driver’s assistance systems and B&O 3D sound experience.

The new Audi Q5 boast many improvements- a stronger Q design identity, better driving experience with new quattro technology coupled with a new 7-speed dual clutch gearbox and maximum everyday usability. A quieter car thanks to improved aero-acoustics and best in-class drag co efficiency (0.30). Standard for Brunei will be 19” wheels.

All test-drive participants will also enter a lucky draw to win a Bang & Olufsen BeoPlay A1 Bluetooth speaker.

 

Stand a chance to win a BeoPlay A1 when you test drive the latest Audi Q5 

 

 

Stuttgart/Amsterdam. There are just a few days to go: the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class celebrates its world premiere in Amsterdam on 2 February 2018. With Mercedes me media, anyone can be there live – wherever they are in the world. Press materials, photos and videos relating to the A-Class are available via a constantly updated media hub.

This year, the new AClass as a harbinger of the new compact car generation will replace a bestseller that has decisively contributed to a more youthful brand image for Mercedes-Benz. The new Mercedes-Benz AClass retains its youthful and dynamic character, yet it is also more grown up and comfortable than ever. It completely redefines modern luxury in the compact class, and revolutionises interior design.

One of many technological highlights is MBUX – Mercedes-Benz User Experience. A unique feature of this multimedia system is its ability to learn thanks to artificial intelligence. Its other strengths include the high-resolution Widescreen Cockpit with touchscreen control, navigation display with augmented reality technology plus intelligent voice control with natural speech recognition, which is launched by saying “Hey Mercedes”.

Anybody around the world who wants to watch the worldwide premiere can do so live on Mercedes me media at https://media.mercedes-benz.com/A-Class2018. Visit the portal on 2 February at 6.45 p.m. (Central European Time so Brunei time will be 1:45am 3rd February) to watch the Pre-Show, which includes a brief summary of all the highlights from the afternoon programme. The live stream of the vehicle presentation starts at 7.00 p.m.

 

 

 

T.C.Y. Motors, the sole distributor of Peugeot in Brunei proudly launched the All-New Peugeot 5008 SUV in the local market. It was held at Peugeot Kiarong Showroom on January 26 to 27, 2018 last weekend. For an up-close and personal viewing of the All-New Peugeot 5008, Peugeot Brunei made the test-drive activity as the main focus during the launch. This new model will serve as another arsenal on Peugeot’s international SUV offense.

Though its name hasn’t changed, the design is entirely unprecedented. The All-New PEUGEOT 5008 breaks new ground as a large seven-seater SUV in the C segment. As a new contender in this promising consumer market, it boasts many strengths.

The All-New PEUGEOT 5008 SUV has not only have the new PEUGEOT i-Cockpit® system and the Efficient Modular Platform EMP2, but also a number of other high-tech features. Beneath its elegant and dynamic design you will find remarkable functionality: with its seven individual seats, the new PEUGEOT 5008 SUV is the first SUV with incredible modularity worthy of the best multi-purpose vehicles. The seats in the second row are entirely independent, but identical, adjustable and foldable. The seats in the third row are foldable and easy to remove to optimise a record 780 dm3 VDA 210 of space in the boot.

The All-New PEUGEOT 5008 produced in Rennes was first presented to the public in Paris, France before its international launch in the spring of 2017.

 

 

 

Immerse yourself in the universe of the All-New PEUGEOT 5008 SUVs through on-the-spot test drive

Visitors can do experiments, with a technological and impactful demonstration of connected 3D navigation and the many driving assistance features available using the Samsung Gear VR virtual reality headset.

A set of animations will be shown that will illustrate the Advanced Grip Control, Hill Assist Descent Control (HADC), Active Safety Brake, Distance Alert and the Active Lane Departure Warning features.

All of the driving assistance features presented on the brand’s latest models constitute a new step towards achieving vehicle autonomy by 2020.

 

 

Amplify your senses with the new-generation of PEUGEOT i-Cockpit®

PEUGEOT has continued its quest to make the driving experience more pleasurable by carefully studying the best way to design the driver’s cockpit.

This quest resulted in an innovative interior layout: the PEUGEOT i-Cockpit®.
It includes essential elements that make it easy to identify and highly desirable.
The latest generation of the PEUGEOT i-Cockpit® launched in the new PEUGEOT 3008 and 5008 has all the latest technology for comfort and safety. It amplifies every sense more than ever:
-The steering wheel is even more compact. Redesigned with a rim with two flat parts for an improved grip, it provides more space for the driver’s legs and increases their field of vision.
-The head-up display combination uses a 12.3” high-resolution digital screen with futuristic graphics. The display is entirely adjustable and customisable and it brings together everything the driver could want within their line of vision so that their eyes never leave the road and they can focus on driving. The aesthetics of each configuration rely on animations and modern, technological transitions.
-The large 8” touch screen that brings together comfort controls in an intuitive way and makes it easy to use all the vehicle’s features. It is located in the centre of the dashboard and has powerful technology to make it more reactive and practical to use.
This screen is complemented by a central console with an elaborate design. It boasts a series of high-quality chrome toggle switches that are metallic and soft to the touch.

With a simple touch of one of these buttons, there is something to appeal to all the senses:
• sight, through adjustments to screen brightness and colour settings
• hearing, via musical ambience settings
• touch, through multipoint seat massage programmes (optional)
• smell, with a fragrance diffuser

The vehicle offers passengers two sensory environments to begin with: Boost, for energetic driving, and Relax, for a calmer experience. Both of these modes are entirely customisable. They create a unique and unforgettable on-board experience for driver and passengers alike.

 

Driving Performance –As an attractive entry into the world of AMG, the AMG C 43 4MATIC combines a 270-kW (367-hp) 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 engine with a permanent Performance all-wheel-drive system and sophisticated suspension technology adopted from the Mercedes-AMG C 63. The result is fascinating Driving Performance and the hallmark emotional expressiveness of the brand.

The AMG sports models are distinguished by convincing product substance. Even at first glance, the characteristic AMG body styling leaves no doubt that this model is part of the Mercedes-AMG model family. Another indication for the new model strategy is found in the form of a special AMG badge on the front wings. From an engineering standpoint the AMG sports models perfectly deliver on the visual promise of a sporty character with a powerful engine, the standard-fit all-wheel drive system with rear-biased torque split, and sophisticated suspension solutions.

 

 

 

Authentic driving dynamics thanks to hallmark AMG DNA
The AMG C 43 4MATIC is based on the most powerful production model of the C-Class, the C 400 4MATIC. The engineers have revised many technical features of the AMG sports model. Their objective: a high level of authentic driving dynamics geared towards the Mercedes-AMG C 63. To this end, a host of suspension components were adopted from the top-of-the-line V8 model. The driver also feels the DNA of the C 63 in the application of the engine and transmission management. Agility and sportiness dominate the intense driving experience in the AMG C 43 4MATIC on every kilometre.

The 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 engine is part of the BlueDIRECT engine family from Mercedes-Benz. Technical advances including a modified boost pressure allowed the AMG engineers to increase the engine’s power output and torque. With 270 kW (367 hp) and 520 Newton metres the V6 engine sets new standards in its segment – which is evident in the convincing performance: 
a sprint time from zero to 100 km/h of 4.9 seconds underscores the sporty temperament of the AMG C 43 4MATIC.

 

 

 

Supreme or dynamic: the choice is yours
Thanks to a hefty torque curve the AMG sports model is agile, direct and dynamic. With the help of various AMG-specific drive programmes the driver is able to tailor the character of the AMG C 43 4MATIC to his or her personal preferences: the modes “Eco”, “Comfort”, “Sport” and “Sport Plus” as well as “Individual” are available to choose from for this purpose. The drive programmes adjust the suspension, steering and powertrain as desired, and are selected conveniently with the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT switch to the left of the touchpad.

Especially the “Sport Plus” programme delivers impressive hallmark AMG dynamics and enhances the emotional appeal: partial cylinder suppression during gear changes by means of a momentary and precisely defined retardation of ignition and injection under full throttle speeds up the gear changes, and can also be acoustically experienced by the driver. The emotional double-declutching functions during downshifts and the “exhaust rumbling” in overrun mode provide the fitting accompaniment. The throaty engine sound – 
a hallmark AMG experience – also plays a crucial role in the most powerful V6 model: to this end, the engineers have developed a new sports exhaust system with lower back-pressure and reduced weight.

The driving sensation is also characterised by the set-up of the accelerator pedal: the more the driver changes the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT settings from “Eco” towards “Sport Plus”, the more spontaneous and dynamic is the throttle response of the twin-turbo V6 engine. The driver also experiences authentic and emotional dynamics during engine start if desired: when the twin-turbo V6 engine is started in the “Sport Plus” drive programme, the engine speed quickly jumps to 2000 rpm for a moment before immediately settling back down to idle speed. Whether the driver wants to experience the engine start accompanied by a sporty or a more subdued sound depends on the most recently activated drive programme – it remains stored for four hours.

The “Eco” programme integrates an ECO start/stop function and a sailing function to reduce fuel consumption: when the driver releases the accelerator in a speed range between 60 and 160 km/h, the clutch of the transmission is disengaged and the engine is decoupled from the powertrain. The electronics reduce the engine speed to idle level, and the driving resistance is reduced by the compression and frictional forces of the engine in overrun mode.

Optimal traction thanks to Performance all-wheel drive
The all-wheel-drive system familiar from a number of AMG high-performance cars is also being used in the AMG C 43 4MATIC. The perfect grip during acceleration effectively prevents losses caused by slip. For thrilling driving dynamics 33 percent of the engine power is sent to the front axle and 67 percent to the rear axle. The rear-biased torque split results in higher agility around the vehicle’s vertical axis. Another major factor in this is the sportier set-up of the ESP® with Curve Dynamic Assist. The tangible effects for sporty drivers are lateral dynamics and cornering performance increased to an above-average level.

 

Interior with exclusive, sporty flair
The AMG C 43 4MATIC fascinates with exclusivity and sportiness in the interior as well. The pleasant touch and feel of the materials and the quality of workmanship ensure a convincing value appeal and an emotional passenger experience.
The ARTICO/DINAMICA upholstery and the instrument panel trimmed with black ARTICO man-made leather convey the sporty ambience in superior fashion. ARTICO is also used on the upper edges of the body, the armrests, the door centre panels and the centre console. Red contrasting topstitching, designo red safety belts and black floor mats with red edging add attractive highlights.

Sports seats with AMG-specific seat upholstery layout and pronounced lateral support offer long-distance comfort and brace the passengers during dynamic cornering. A fitting complement to the sporty handling is the 3-spoke nappa leather multifunction sports steering wheel with flat bottom. The convincing looks and touch and feel comes in part also courtesy of loving details such as red contrasting topstitching, the moulded grip area, steering-wheel paddle shifters and the silver chrome steering wheel trim.

The instrument cluster also sports the typical AMG style: this source of information comprises dials in the sporty “chequered flag” design, a 280-km/h speedometer scale, red speedometer needles and a specific typography.

 

DAKAR 2018 | A THIRD CONSECUTIVE WIN FOR PEUGEOT 

DAKAR 2018 | A THIRD CONSECUTIVE WIN FOR PEUGEOT

After 8,793 kilometres of dunes, mountain passes, rocky tracks and assorted hazards through Peru, Bolivia and Argentina, the crew of Carlos Sainz/Lucas Cruz have given the PEUGEOT 3008DKR Maxi a magnificent victory on the 40th Dakar Rally. This third consecutive success for Team Peugeot Total on the most demanding rally in the world mirrors the commercial success of the PEUGEOT 3008 SUV, which was voted ‘Car of the Year’ in 2017.

PERFORMANCE AND RELIABILITY
The route of the 40th edition of the Dakar proved to be particularly demanding on the mechanical side. Following this demanding endurance test of nearly 9,000 kilometres, not only did the PEUGEOT 3008DKR Maxi win seven out of 13 stages but it also demonstrated remarkable reliability. The only issues encountered were minor gear selection issues, while the reason for retirement of the n°306 PEUGEOT 3008DKR Maxi was not down to any technical problems. The new BF Goodrich tyres proved to be remarkably strong over the demanding South American terrain, while TOTAL lubricants ensured optimal performance from the engines despite the altitude and extreme conditions.

THE REVENGE OF ‘EL MATADOR’
Carlos Sainz and Lucas Cruz have been unlucky over the last three Dakars but they bounced back in the strongest possible way. Having driven a masterful rally from the start, the two Spaniards demonstrated both performance and consistency at the wheel of the n°303 PEUGEOT 3008DKR Maxi. They won SS6 and SS7 (out of 14) to take a lead on the marathon stage that they were never to lose. The winners of the 2010 Dakar were on the top step of the podium again by reaching Cordoba with a 43min40s advantage over their rivals. This victory underlines their unrelenting investment into PEUGEOT’s rally raid project, having put all their expertise and talent into the set-up of the DKR cars.

 

 

 

 

THE TRIBULATIONS OF ‘MR DAKAR’
Stéphane Peterhansel and Jean-Paul Cottret, the winners of the 2016 and 2017 Dakars with PEUGEOT, had an action-packed rally with two unfortunate setbacks. On SS7 (of 14) the n°300 crew had to swerve to avoid a quad bike stopped in the middle of the road and destroyed their car’s left-rear suspension against a hidden rock. Then at the start of SS13, the reigning Dakar champions hit a tree, which damaged their power steering. On both occasions, their team mates Cyril Despres/David Castera helped them fix their car and continue. These mishaps meant that they lost first and then second place in the overall classification. Nonetheless they finished fourth after proving to be the fastest crew of the whole Team PEUGEOT Total squad, with three stage victories.

DESPRES/CASTERA, RAPID AND DEPENDABLE
The first Team PEUGEOT Total crew to win a stage on the 2018 Dakar was Cyril Despres and David Castera, who claimed the overall lead at the end of SS2, showing that they have taken another step forward in terms of performance. Unfortunately, the ambitions of the two former bike riders were undone by a rock coming out of the road at kilometre 180 of SS4. This destroyed the right-rear suspension of the car, which stopped the duo in their tracks. With the help of Team PEUGEOT Total’s service truck, also entered in the competition, the n°308 PEUGEOT 3008DKR Maxi crew was able to continue, but with a severe delay. From then on, demonstrating amazing team spirit, the duo dedicated themselves to helping their team mates, while setting some impressive stage times when the opportunity arose (such as on SS8 and SS11). As a result of their 29-hour penalty, Cyril Despres and David Castera were classified some way back, a position which doesn’t represent their true level of performance.

LOEB STOPPED IN HIS TRACKS
After finishing second on last year’s Dakar, just five minutes behind the winners, Sébastien Loeb/Daniel Elena started this year’s event with the clear objective of winning. They made a great start to the rally, despite an itinerary through Peru that mainly consisted of dunes and off-piste driving, which was not really to their advantage. They then won SS4 in style, one of the most difficult stages of the modern Dakar in South America. Unfortunately, while running second in the overall classification, they were forced to retire on SS5, between San Juan de Marcona and Arequipa in Peru. Their PEUGEOT 3008DKR Maxi fell into a soft and sandy hole while they were avoiding another competitor who had got stuck. The impact fractured Daniel Elena’s coccyx, making it impossible for him to continue.

 

 

THE LATEST CHAPTER IN THE SUCCESS STORY
This year’s win from Team PEUGEOT Total completes PEUGEOT’s already impressive track record of success on the Dakar, being the manufacturer’s seventh win from eight participations! Here’s a quick reminder of everything PEUGEOT has achieved on the Dakar :
1987 : Victory for Vatanen/Giroux (205 T16 Grand Raid)
1988 : Victory for Kankkunen/Piironen (205 T16 Grand Raid)
1989 : One-two for Vatanen/Berglund and Ickx/Tarin (405 T16 Grand Raid)
1990 : One-two-three for Vatanen/Berglund (405 T16 Grand Raid), Waldegard/Fenouil (405 T16 Grand Raid), Ambrosino/Baumgartner (205 T16 Grand Raid)
2016 : Victory for Peterhansel/Cottret (2008DKR)
2017 : One-two-three for Peterhansel/Cottret, Loeb/Elena and Despres/Castera (3008DKR)
2018 : Victory for Sainz/Cruz (3008DKR Maxi).

KEY NUMBERS FROM THE 2018 DAKAR
Countries visited: Peru, Bolivia and Argentina.
Kilometres covered: 8793km, of which 4047km were competitive, over 14 legs and 13 stages.
Stage wins: 7 for the PEUGEOT 3008DKR Maxi out of 13 that were run.
3 for Peterhansel/Cottret (SS5, SS8 and SS10)
2 for Sainz/Cruz (SS6 and SS7)
1 for Despres/Castera (SS2)
1 for Loeb/Elena (SS4)
One-twos and one-two-threes : 4 one-twos (SS2, SS4, SS6 and SS8) including two one-two-threes (SS2 and SS4)
Rally leaders: Despres/Castera (SS2), Peterhansel/Cottret (SS3 to SS6) and Sainz/Cruz (SS7 to SS14).
Maximum speed: 195.9kph (Despres/Castera SS3)
Highest average speed: 108kph (Sainz/Cruz SS6)
Highest ambient temperature: 35° (SS13)
Lowest ambient temperature: 6° (SS6)
Maximum altitude: 4786m (SS8, Uyuni-Tupiza)

HEADING FOR AN ELECTRIFYING CHALLENGE
This win marks PEUGEOT’s final participation on the Dakar. PEUGEOT Sport will now concentrate on the FIA World Rallycross Championship (WorldRX). The season will get underway from April 14-15 in Barcelona, with Sébastien Loeb driving one of the PEUGEOT 208 WRX entries. At the same time, PEUGEOT Sport will also prepare for the forthcoming electric Rallycross championship in 2020. This will be tackled with the replacement for the current road going PEUGEOT 208, which will feature a fully electric version.

PROVISIONAL OVERALL CLASSIFICATION AFTER SS14
1. Carlos Sainz (ESP) / Lucas Cruz (ESP), PEUGEOT 3008 DKR Maxi, 49h 16min18s
2. Nasser Al Attiyah (QAT) / Matthieu Baumel (FRA), Toyota 4WD, + 43min40s
3. Giniel de Villiers (ZAF) / Dirk von Zitzewitz (ZAF), Toyota 4WD, + 1h 16min41s
4. Stéphane Peterhansel (FRA) / Jean-Paul Cottret (FRA), PEUGEOT 3008DKR Maxi, + 1h 25min29s
5. Jakub Przygonski (POL) / Tom Colsoul (BEL), Mini 4WD, + 2h 45min24s
6. Khalid Al Qassimi (ARE) / Xavier Panseri (FRA), Peugeot 3008DKR, + 4h 20min58s
31. Cyril Despres (FRA) / David Castera (FRA), PEUGEOT 3008DKR Maxi, + 45h 19min10s

 

1,878,100 automobiles sold: Audi closes 2017 with new record-breaking sales 

• Following a difficult start, successful year-end closing with sales up 0.6 percent

• Sales chief Bram Schot: “Demonstrated strength and brand attraction”

• Q models take off with over 685,000 deliveries

AUDI AG has increased its global sales for the eighth year in a row. Despite a turbulent first half of the year, the company achieved a new record-breaking figure: Around 1,878,100 deliveries represent an increase of 0.6 percent. The Four Rings sold more than in the previous year in all three core markets in 2017: In the United States, Audi achieved new record-breaking sales month by month and closed the year 2017 with growth of 7.8 percent. In China, Audi not only managed to offset the poor delivery figures from the first half of the year, but even achieved a cumulative increase of 1.1 percent in the year-end spurt. In Germany, sales built on the very high level in 2016 with an increase of 0.4 percent.

“Despite a very challenging situation we achieved positive growth in all core markets in 2017 and achieved a new record-breaking sales result worldwide. Every single market contributed to this outcome. This demonstrates the attractiveness of our product portfolio to our customers,” says Bram Schot, Board Member for Sales and Marketing at AUDI AG.

Since June, Audi has managed to return to growth in China, steadily reducing the cumulative year-on-year decline month by month and ultimately achieving a positive sales balance. In the period January through December, the brand increased its deliveries by 1.1 percent to 597,866 automobiles. With this new all-time high, the company continues to maintain its lead in the Chinese premium market. Following on from its similar achievement in November, China also posted the highest volume growth of any individual market in the last month of 2017. Here the sales figures once again increased sharply, up 34.3 percent to 69,160 automobiles year-on-year. Never before had so many Chinese customers taken delivery of an Audi in a single month.

 

 

The new Audi Q5 will be launched in Brunei in February 2018. Stay tune 😀 

Audi of America also achieved another successful year despite the declining overall market.Audi was the only premium manufacturer in the United States to grow steadily in 2017: up 7.8 percent to 226,511 units. In December 2017, the company also celebrated its 84th record-breaking month in a row (+16.3% to 26,977 units).

With high growth throughout the year, Audi Canada (+17.9% to 36,007 cars) also established itself as a firm fixture among the top ten largest markets.

Despite numerous political and economic uncertainties, sales in Europe rose 0.4 percent to around 860,600 cars. In addition to Germany (+0.4% to 294,544 cars), Italy (+10.5% to 68,954 cars) and France (+3.6% to 63,980) achieved new annual record-breaking figures. The market downturn in the UK had a negative impact on overall results: With 175,217 deliveries and a drop of 1.3 percent, total Audi sales in the United Kingdom, however, comfortably outperformed the declining overall market.

The global increase in demand for the Q models (+10.8% to around 689,150 cars) was a major factor in the growth of the Four Rings in 2017. More than one out of every three Audi models sold was therefore an SUV. The best-selling Q model in Europe is the Q2. Apart from Germany (23,167 units), other major buyers here included the UK (12,636 units) and Italy (11,068 units). Global sales of the Audi Q3 once again increased in December (+11.3% to around 20,950 cars). In 2017, the most successful member of the Q family was the Audi Q5 with around 281,850 automobiles delivered. The most Audi Q5 models were delivered to the individual market China. The successor model will go on sale at Chinese dealers as a long-wheelbase version in spring 2018. The Audi Q7 also saw sales increase by 3.9 percent in 2017. Since the start of the year, sales of the full-size SUV have increased in North America alone by about a fifth to around 43,800 units.

 

 

Test Drove the Mercedes-Benz CLA recently and I enjoyed it 

This car is equipped with the AMG Line. This design and equipment line combines carefully coordinated features to increase the sportiness and exclusivity of the vehicle still further. Dynamic looks from all angles are ensured by the powerful AMG bodystyling comprising front apron, rear apron and side sill panels plus a diamond radiator grille with chrome pins and the twin-pipe exhaust system with chrome-plated tailpipe trim. The lowered sports suspension improves handling and increases driving pleasure. (18-inch) AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels Painted titanium grey and with a high-sheen finish, perforated brake discs at the front and callipers at the front with Mercedes-Benz lettering round off the striking exterior. Sports seats in ARTICO man-made leather / DINAMICA microfibre, the multifunction sports steering wheel with flattened bottom section and a leather shift lever add stylish, sporty touches to the interior. These items feature contrasting red topstitching, which is also to be found on the armrests in the doors and on the armrest on the centre console. Another highlight comes in the shape of the brushed stainless steel sports pedals with rubber studs.

Multicolour ambience lighting – lighting mood to suit personal taste

Climb in and feel at home – with its pleasant, indirect light, the ambient lighting creates an unrivalled sense of well-being in the interior. Especially at night, it accentuates the contouring and high quality of the interior design, imparts a feeling of comfort and security by conjuring up an impression of spaciousness and reduces dazzle from oncoming traffic. 12 different colours and five dimming levels are available for the desired lighting mood. The ambience lighting features full LED technology, and is conveniently controlled via the instrument cluster. It also switches on when the doors are opened, welcoming the passengers on board.

Smartphone Integration – for safe and intuitive use of a smartphone

With Smartphone Integration it is possible to integrate an iPhone® into the vehicle via Apple CarPlay™ and also Android smartphones via Android Auto and operate them by voice control – certain functions can also be used via the vehicle controls. This makes safe use possible while on the move. The connection to the smartphone allows access to up-to-date software and data such as navigation and traffic information, media (Streaming Media and IP Radio) as well as contact data, telephony/FaceTime and messaging. To prevent driver distraction while on the move, there is no complete duplication of smartphone content.

 

The best part when I drove the CLA – Apple Car Play 

All you have to do press the Siri button on the steering wheel 

And you can ask Siri anything 😀 

You can choose your destination on the Siri and it will show on the display panel 

LED High Performance headlamps – more lighting power, lower energy consumption

In addition to the striking look, the LED High Performance headlamps provide more safety at night thanks to a broad light distribution, a light colour similar to daylight and low energy consumption. Also in daytime, the clearly defined contours and high-quality detailing ensure an unmistakable front view. Thanks to the LED technology used in the low-beam and main-beam headlamps, the road is illuminated better than with conventional halogen headlamps. When unlocking the vehicle, the “Coming Home” function welcomes the driver with an exceptional light display. The fibre-optic daytime running lamps first light up blue, then change colour via a smooth transition to bright white. The tail lights also feature LED technology and create a visual highlight at the rear while improving visibility. The brightness of the brake lights and turn indicators varies depending on the light conditions to avoid dazzling other road users.

Parking Pilot with PARKTRONIC – making light work of parking and manoeuvring

The Parking Pilot with PARKTRONIC makes locating a parking space, parking and manoeuvring out of a parking space easier. When activated, it automatically steers the vehicle into parking spaces, relieving the driver of the work of steering and braking. The Parking Pilot with PARKTRONIC is automatically active during forward travel at up to 35 km/h. If the vehicle speed is below 30 km/h, the system indicates that it has found a suitable parking space by displaying a “P” with a direction arrow in the multifunction display in the instrument cluster. As the default function, the system searches on the nearside of the vehicle, if the offside turn signal indicator is activated it will also search on the offside. When the driver engages reverse gear and confirms the suggested parking space, the Parking Pilot with PARKTRONIC automatically carries out the steering manoeuvre up to a speed of 10 km/h. The driver needs only to operate the accelerator and brake pedal, the parking procedure being completed after a maximum of seven manoeuvres. It is possible to intervene in the process at any time and correct the parking manoeuvre. The Parking Assist PARKTRONIC electronic parking aid monitors the front and rear areas while the vehicle is being manoeuvred and warns the driver if a risk of collision is detected. The system is active up to a speed of 18 km/h.

 

 

 

Ruby enjoyed being my passenger on the CLA 

I’m not familiar with the functions but it’s always good to have more options and preferences 

Rano says: I’ve always been a big fan of the Mercedes brand. I guess it runs in the family. Of course, my younger brother is into the brand more than I do. Recently, I test drove the Mercedes-Benz CLA for the weekend and there are many things that I want to highlight.

The first thing that I prioritize in any car is comfort and Mercedes never fails in that department. The engineers go an extra mile to make sure the driver and passengers are at comfort. I’m not used to the different buttons by the side which apparently does more to your seating preference. It’s so comforting that you would drive here and there without complaining that you’re tired of driving.

I drove to Kuala Belait and it was definitely a comfort ride even on the highway speed limit. I was more into the sport select mode to feel the difference from Eco mode. I’m not a fast driver but I have to remind myself to slow down on the highway because sometimes the ride was so comforting that I went the past the speed limit without realizing.

The other thing I appreciate is the Apple Car Play. So for those with Android and especially iPhone users, you will love this. You are able to sync your IOS from your phone and the screen display will integrate from your iPhone. Best part is using Siri with Apple Car Play. You can make calls with voice command. You can even use for navigation and such. So if you are itching to play with your phone while driving (not advisable and dangerous), the next best thing is the Apple Car Play and Siri will be your best friend while driving the CLA.

All in all, a comfort drive with a strong branding presence. If you’re interested to test drive and check it out for yourself, you can contact Jati Transport Sdn Bhd. I’m more of a C-Class person, mind you.