The new CLS 350 😀

The new CLS pioneers the new design idiom of Mercedes-Benz, which is recognisable by its clear contours and reduced lines. Its character is marked by a grille contour that widens towards the base and a forward-slanting front section. Other features include wide, low-set headlamps and two-section tail lights. At the same time the design reflects the timeless aura of the first CLS, which founded a new segment and quickly became a design icon. All CLS models are equipped with new engines: in-line six-cylinder and in-line four-cylinder units as diesel and petrol versions. Like its predecessors, the new CLS exudes self-assured sportiness in exemplary style: a highly emotive vehicle offering impressive long-distance and acoustic comfort coupled with thrilling, unrivalled technology.

 

 

The standard AMG Line makes for added sportiness of the exterior and interior. External features are dynamic AMG styling (consisting of AMG front apron with chrome trim, sportily distinctive air curtains, AMG side sill panels and AMG rear apron in diffuser look with chrome trim strip), a diamond radiator grille with chrome pins and 48.3 cm (19-inch) 5-twin-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels painted in tremolite grey with a high-sheen finish. In the interior, the AMG Line comprises specially designed seats in ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA microfibre in black, an AMG multifunction sports steering wheel with flattened bottom section as well as AMG sports pedals and AMG floor mats.

Interior: comfort and versatility

A high-resolution Widescreen cockpit is standard for the new CLS, with two 12.3-inch displays arranged beneath a shared, continuous glass cover.

In the fully digital cockpit, the driver is able to feely configure the information content according to need and the driving situation. Three different styles can be selected depending on preference, mood or to suit the interior appointments. The Classic and Sport styles have a basic structure with two tubes, while the Progressive style surprises and polarises with a structure having a central, tube-shaped instrument.

The ambience lighting is individually adjustable in 64 colours, and also includes the air vents. When the temperature setting of the air conditioning system is changed, it briefly changes colour to show whether the temperature is being made warmer (red) or cooler (blue).

For the first time, the CLS Coupé is a five-seater. The EASY-PACK Quickfold allows the backrests to be folded down in a 40/20/40 split to versatilely expand the large 520-litre luggage compartment.

Intelligent Drive: safety systems from the SClass

The new CLS comes with the latest driving assistance systems with route-based support for the driver. The standard equipment includes Active Brake Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST, Speed Limit Assist and the occupant protection system PRE-SAFE®.

The optional Driving Assistance Package consists of Active Distance Control DISTRONIC, Active Steering Assist, Active Speed Limit Assist, Active Brake Assist with cross-traffic function, Evasive Steering Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist and PRESAFE® PLUS. The Driving Assistance package Plus includes PRE-SAFE® Impulse Side. This system can brace the front occupants for a side impact by nudging them sideways to reduce the risk of injury.

MULTIBEAM LED headlamps with ULTRA RANGE high beam are also standard. These allow extremely quick and precise, electronically controlled adjustment of the headlamps to suit the current traffic conditions. ULTRA RANGE Highbeam generates the maximum light intensity permitted by law.

New range of engines: With EQ Boost and 48 volt onboard electrical system

The third generation of the Mercedes-Benz CLS is powered by completely new engines, in-line six-cylinder and four-cylinder petrol units. Also characteristic of the four-door coupé is the extensive range of 4MATIC models.

The new, systematically electrified four-cylinder and in-line six-cylinder with EQ Boost (integrated starter/generator) and a 48 volt onboard electrical system powers the CLS 350, CLS 450 4MATIC and CLS 53 4MATIC+. The integrated electric motor known as EQ Boost assists the combustion engine e.g. when accelerating, makes driving without the combustion engine possible (“sailing”) and supplies the battery with power by means of high-efficiency recuperation. By doing so it makes fuel savings possible that were previously the exclusive domain of high-voltage hybrid technology. All in all, the new in-line six-cylinder engine delivers the performance of an eight-cylinder engine with significantly lower consumption. The CLS 450 4MATIC is equipped with a particulate filter as standard.

 

 

 

 

 

Woohooo… How can anyone not be excited for the new Mercedes-Benz A250?  

Mr. Ho Ley Hoon, Sales Manager of Jati Transport Sdn Bhd mingling with the guests  

Jati Transport Sdn Bhd knows how to throw a sneak preview of a model in a luxurious manner. They collaborated with a new eatery called Hook•ed, a subsidiary I believe from Golden Corporation, and provided the set up (ambience), service and the most important the food with detailed food presentation.

The event was hosted for the likes of the local press and social influencers of Brunei Darussalam for the press preview of the latest Mercedes-Benz model, the new A200 and the A250, which have already caught many buzzes when I posted a short video a month ago on social media. The dinner + press preview took place at Mercedes Autohaus at Beribi.

In attendance were Mr. Ho Ley Hoon, Sales Manager of Jati Transport Sdn Bhd, Daniel Loo, Marketing Executive at Jati Transport Sdn Bhd and other sales team of Jati Transport Sdn Bhd.

I have to say that the dinner event has a very personal touch and the representatives of the media and social influencers were in awe with what the new A250 and A200 can deliver. Though the exterior may have similar look with previous models, the main stealer of the show is the features of the A250 and A200 and of course, the interior.

I shall share all the specs and features in my next post or show. You will be amazed how smart the Mercedes-Benz can be and yes, you can command by using your voice. The magic word is “Hey Mercedes” and it will attend to you. Awesome!!!

All the current stock have been taken up by customers even before the official launch. But not to worry, more are being shipped as we speak. If you want to buy a Mercedes-Benz, this is definitely the right window and it could be just the best investment for the year 2018 😉

My deep appreciation for Jati Transport for the invite and delivering such a classy dinner event which really suited the theme with the new Mercedes-Benz A250 and A200. Stay tuned for the upcoming post on the A250 and the A200.

 

Members of the media attending the event 

Ak Fairol of Media Permata speaking to a colleague  

Hello Izzah :p 

Nicely set up and I love the concept. Thank you, Hook•ed  

Some of the starters for the night  

The head chef preparing for the guests  

A very detailed chef when it comes to food styling and presentation  

The food ready to be served  

I was feeling excited for dinner and it paid off  

Me on the job and do check out my IG stories too 

Thank you, Jati Transport, for hosting the media and social influencers 

 

Drove the Mercedes-Benz E200 the other day. Gonna post my experience soon and why this is one hell of a ride!! 

now until 30th Sep 2018, stand a chance to win an all expenses paid trip to participate in the AMG Performance Drive Event in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia when you book and register any Mercedes-Benz! Only a total of 10 tickets are available to be won. So hurry up and seize the opportunity by giving us a call at 2441763/2441777 or visit Mercedes-Benz Autohaus today! Terms & conditions apply. 

 

 

Check out the special promotion by Jati Transport. Register and purchase yourself any Mercedes-Benz from now until 30th Sept 2018. You will stand a chance to win an all expenses paid trip to participate the AMG Performance Drive Even in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Seize this opportunity and call 244 1763 / 244 1777 or visit their Mercedes-Benz Beribi showroom / Autohaus today.

 

 

Test driving the latest Mercedes-Benz C180 

Another privilege to have driven the Mercedes-Benz C180, its latest version. I asked permission from Jati Transport, the authorised distributor of Mercedes-Benz in Brunei Darussalam, if I could drive one of their models for a commercial shoot and they offered me the Mercedes-Benz C180.

The exterior has a different feel compared to its predecessors. I’m pretty sure those who owns the previous C180 will notice the variance of the exterior. The lines, the edges and even the convex and concave surfaces have redefined the C180 model into a more vibrant first impression.

I was also happy with the interior environment of the C180. As always, a high quality finish and materials and it also gives a cultured sports styling and finite details. I like it – simple and elegant.

A few new features to share with you with the new C180. First is the “Active Lane Keeping Assist”. The system can identify an unintentional drifting out of lane, send a haptic warning (steering-wheel vibrations) to the driver, and can help to return the vehicle to the correct lane by selectively braking individual wheels. So this ideal if you are driving along the highway and have the slight tendency to lose focus. This is a great feature to keep you alert on the road.

The other feature is the “Active Blind Spot Assist”. The system makes one of the biggest dangers in road traffic visible – vehicles in the blind spot. If changing lane, for example, it can warn the driver and apply selective braking to individual wheels to avert a potential collision.If a vehicle is detected within the monitored range, a warning symbol is displayed in the driver’s exterior mirror. Should the driver overlook the warning and start to change lanes, the ESP® system can intervene actively and guide the vehicle back into the lane.

Verdict: With an affordable price for the new Mercedes-Benz C180 and not compromising with quality, this is a good purchase. Furthermore, there is the special promotion where you can get BND 1,000 voucher for Mercedes-Benz Service and maintenance, merchandises, accessories and grooming services. Visit Jati Transport Showroom or their Autohaus today.

 

 

Check out the grill 

The interior feel of the new C180 

 

Always a comfort ride. You can’t go wrong with a Mercedes-Benz 

Check out the new Mercedes-Benz C180 

 

 

 

 

Mr. Ho Ley Hoon, Sales Manager of Jati Transport Sdn Bhd officially launching the new Mercedes-Benz iShowroom 

Jati Transport Sdn Bhd has upped their game in the showroom department. Gone are the days of Mercedes-Benz brochures or pamphlets at their showroom. Last night the management team unveiled their first ever digital brochure app. With this app, customers are able to get a close up preview with their preference on the variety of Mercedes-Benz model available for order.

App is called The Mercedes-Benz iShowroom which acts as a digital brochure which allows prospective customers to choose and view which features and equipment best suits them. It’s like buying a computer online and choosing your own specs. Same thing applies here.

The best part of the app is that it allows the customer to choose their financing solution by dragging the button to see his or her budget needs. You can adjust the downpayment and the length of the loan with a touch of a button. Awesome feature!!

With the iShowroom, you can compare the different types of colors and fabrics and even rims of the available Mercedes-Benz models. It can also be viewed on 3 different angles to give the customer a wholistic feel online. There are also videos and interactive applications in making your car shopping experience more exciting than usual.

The sales executive team will be in charge of the iShowroom app whenever you pay a visit to the showroom. Or even better, they can drop by your area or pay you a visit and do a visual presentation to you with their iShowroom app.

Prospective customer can request for an email to be sent or print out after he or she has selected the options of the model for easy reference.

Mr. Ho Ley Hoon, Sales Manager of Jati Transport Sdn Bhd said, “Mercedes-Benz Brunei has been the first to introduce the concept of converting the traditional physical brochure into digital brochure via an app in Brunei. The idea is to offer our customers a unique and interesting experience to match their latest lifestyle when they visit our showroom. Furthermore, our sales executives are well equipped and will able to bring the iShowroom experience to your doorstep or wherever you are.”

 

Daniel Loo, Marketing Executive of Jati Transport demo-ing on how the iShowroom works 

I like how you can compare between colours 

Easy to customize and visualize to your preference 

 

The financial solution for customer’s preference. Easy to use and effective. 

How the summary looks like once you are done with the customization 

Members of the media had the privilege to witness the new iShowroom 

 

Click image to see more of the specs for the GLC 200 

Mercedes-Benz proudly presents a further variant in the premium SUV segment in Brunei and provide a wider variety for its customers to choose from. This was launched late last year and it has been a popular choice for Bruneians and I shall reveal to you why.


The new Mercedes-Benz GLC 200 comes generously equipped with numerous high-end features including the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, an Off-road exterior package, 18-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels and LED High Performance headlamps.



The GLC 200 is equipped with the OFF-ROAD Exterior design which underscores the vehicle’s SUV characteristics with rugged design features in chrome. The radiator trim boasts an integral Mercedes star and two louvres in matt iridium silver with chrome inserts. Other select highlights include the 18-inch 5-spoke light-alloy wheels, the chrome-plated simulated underguard and the exhaust system with two visible, chrome-plated tailpipe trims and the anodized roof rails.



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. The tail lights feature LED technology and create a visual highlight while improving visibility.

 

 

I had the privilege to test drive the GLC 200 for a couple of days. Addicted? Yes…. 

Turning the GLC 200 like my second homeThe GLC 200 is powered by a 2.0 litre 4 in-line engine, which produces an output of 135 kW (184 hp) and 300 Nm of torque.  The nine-stage 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission also comes as standard on the GLC 200. Depending on the mode selected for the DYNAMIC SELECT dynamic handling control, the automatic transmission with a torque converter boasts great agility and responsivenes. It offers an impressively high shift speed and perfect transitions for energetic sprinting as well as with gentle, barely perceptible gear changes for enjoyable cruising.



Other innovative features such as the Parking Pilot, KEYLESS-GO with HANDS-FREE ACCESS, Central colour multifunction display, etc were also available in the GLC 200. Parking Pilot with PARKTRONIC and reversing camera makes it easier to both find a parking space and to enter and leave parallel or end-on parking spaces. The system automatically steers the vehicle into parking spaces, relieving the driver of the work of steering and braking.

The HANDS-FREE ACCESS function allows contactless, fully automatic opening and closing of the luggage compartment door – simply by performing a kicking movement under the rear bumper.

For customer who still prefer the 4 wheel drive feature, the GLC also offer the GLC 250 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive. The GLC 250 4MATIC has a power output of 211 hp and 300 Nm of torque.

Other additional features in the GLC 250 4MATIC are AMG Line, 360 degree camera and 19-inch wheels.

 

 

Yes, the previous shipment of the GLC 200 didn’t come with Apple CarPlay. Fret not as the incoming batch will have this feature 🙂 

The new shipment of the GLC 200 also comes with Apple CarPlay as the Smartphone Integration describe below.

Smartphone Integration allows integrating iPhones® via Apple CarPlay™ as well as Android smartphones with Android Auto into the vehicle, and operating 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 provides access to the latest software and data such as, e.g. navigation and traffic information, media (streaming media and IP radio), as well contact information, telephony/FaceTime and messaging. To prevent driver distraction while at the wheel, not all smartphone contents are duplicated.

 

 

Last November 2017, I had a first taste of the GLC 200 in Kota Kinabalu. I also test drove the GLC 250. Guess which was my preference of the two? 

Mark Raine, Mercedes-Benz Cars vice-president of sales and marketing (Malaysia), posing with the Mercedes-Benz GLC 200 at Hap Seng Star showroom at Kota Kinabalu last November 

Last year, I had a short interview with Mark Raine, Mercedes-Benz Cars vice-president of sales and marketing (Malaysia) and asked him why introduce the GLC 200 if the GLC 250 is already available in the market.

He responded by saying the GLC 250 which is a brilliant product where it’s an SUV 4WD and offers great speed and comfort, positioning it as a very sporty, luxury model.

However to a certain extent, Mercedes-Benz will be only capturing that lot of market but there are customers who want different qualities and traits and their mindsets are different from other customers. Hence the GLC 200 repositions itself in more exclusive luxury segment. It comes standard in on-road package or off-road package. The interior package also makes the value perception of this vehicle very, very high.

The GLC 200 is just a notch below the GLC 250, hence makes it more affordable for most customers in the market. The unique selling point of the GLC 200 will be the exclusive luxurious appeal with high value perception and many features at a very competitive price.

 

 

I’m in love with the Mercedes-Benz GLC 200 and it really suits my persona 

Hands free assist parking and it also does reverse parking aside from parallel parking 

Rano’s thoughts: As I’ve mentioned before, I am in love with the GLC 200. Mercedes has always been my preferred brand because of its status and quality. Driving the GLC 200 reassured my confidence in what the GLC 200 can offer.

The handling is pretty good and I had a good drive from bandar to KB and the most important thing is comfort and safety. The handling is superb especially for an SUV.

Of course, the GLC 250 has much power because of its 4WD option. For me, the GLC 200 is still good enough for me and it still packs some power when I drove up the hilly roads at Kota Batu.

You will be surprised how much the GLC 200 costs on the road. With all the features and the specs plus the brand of Mercedes, it’s priced around BND 76,000ish on the road. When I posted the price on my social media platform, many werent’ aware how competitive the price is for the GLC 200. For an extra BND 6,000ish, you can also enjoy the GLC 250 model.

Hence, this particular model is selling like hot cakes. So visit Jati Transport if you are keen on the Mercedes-Benz GLC 200. Who knows if I have enough “rezeki”, this will be my first choice.

Verdict: Attractively priced and packed with great features. Furthermore, I can be biased because it’s a Mercedes-Benz. You can deny it how much of a steal this is for BND 76k. I shall give this a 9/10.

 

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.

 

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.

 

 

 

So what can you expect from the Mercedes-Benz Driving Event in Sepang, Malaysia, this year?

You will spend a whole day training and learning about the fundamentals of improved driving safety and driving enjoyment. So that confidently regaining control after a tail skid or precise steering manoeuvers at different speed levels become a matter of routine.

You also learn on having maximum concentration, fast reactions and focused precision. Experience the sporty side of driver training on this intensive training course for beginners on the race track. The handling course is available for a warm-up. Then you get closer to the perfect racing line lap by lap and find the optimum braking points. As you gain in experience, you get to know the sections of the track and the speeds at which the vehicle oversteers or understeers. Followed by a race in which you can demonstrate just how much you have learned. The perfect combination of enduring experience and memorable moments.

 

 

Mercedes-Benz Driving Event in Sepang, Malaysia back in May 2017 

Mercedes-Benz Driving Event in Sepang, Malaysia back in May 2017 

Mercedes-Benz Driving Event in Sepang, Malaysia back in May 2017 

Mercedes-Benz Driving Event in Sepang, Malaysia back in May 2017