With the customers from Jati Transport at the Mercedes-Benz Driving Experience 2019 at Sepang International Circuit, Kuala Lumpur

The Best Driver of the Day during the Mercedes-Benz Driving Experience 2019

Recently Jati Transport Sdn Bhd brought a few of the selected Mercedes-Benz customers for the Mercedes-Benz Driving Experience 2019 at Sepang International Circuit, Kuala Lumpur. As usual, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia hosted the event where the guests stayed at Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur while the driving experience itself was held at Sepang International Circuit.

This event is organized yearly to give a better experience to the customers of what the Mercedes-Benz can do. Thank you once again to Jati Transport Sdn Bhd and Mercedes-Benz Malaysia for hosting another successful event. Looking forward to next year indeed.

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.

Appreciation Day at Mercedes-Benz Autohaus Showroom yesterday

Ho Ley Hoon, Sales Manager of Jati Transport Sdn Bhd, Alfred So, General Manager of Jati Transport Sdn Bhd , Kenny Ng, General Manager of Emerging Markets, Daimler South East Asia and Andrew Chiam, Executive Director of Jati Transport Sdn Bhd

Yesterday was a great day for the public as they enjoyed the festivities during Customer Appreciation Day hosted by Jati Transport, the authorised auto dealer for Mercedes-Benz and it was held for the first time at Mercedes-Benz Autohaus Showroom. Hundreds of customers came with their family to enjoy the food and the entertainment provided by Jati Transport Sdn Bhd.

Present during the Customer Appreciation Day were Andrew Chiam, Executive Director of Jati Transport Sdn Bhd, Alfred So, General Manager of Jati Transport Sdn Bhd and Kenny Ng, General Manager of Emerging Markets, Daimler South East Asia.

The customers enjoyed the activities provided such as face painting for their children, lego games, photo booth and not forgetting the discounts on their merchandise items.

This event is to appreciate the loyal customers of Jati Transport Sdn Bhd and continue the strong relations with the company and their customers.

Mercedes-Benz Autohaus Showroom was opened mid year to the delight of Mercedes-Benz customers. They have a much bigger showroom as well as service centre to service all the Mercedes-Benz cars in Brunei Darussalam. Hence, Jati Transport has two authorized workshop, one at the main headquarters and the other at the Autohaus Showroom. According to Stephen Reid, Service Manager at Jati Transport, their service centre does around 800 Mercerdes-Benz car per month. Now that’s a lot of servicing and they have around 22 certified technicians and electrician to help with the servicing of their customers’ cars.

Food was the main attraction yesterday. I love the satay 😀

What a young talented girl! She had a big cheer from the crowd after her performance.

The service centre of Mercedes-Benz Autohaus and this is where most of the simple servicing are carried out

Did you know Mr. Softy van is a Mercedes-Benz? 😀

Now this is a beast because of the striking black colour of the newly launched GLC 200. Apparently this already belongs to someone else.

Face painting was popular as well

Lots of families showed up for the packed event

Boba Tea drinks were sold out by noon, distributing out 500 cups in total. Amazing!

The photo booth section

The access point was narrow but it didn’t stop customers flocking in for the Customer Appreciation Day

Customers also had the opportunity to see the newly launched Mercedes-Benz GLC 200, a variant addition to the premium SUV segment in Brunei Darussalam. I had a first look and a bit of a test drive at it a few months ago back in Kota Kinabalu during a short trip hosted by Jati Transport.

I knew it will be a big hit in Brunei because of customers can enjoy the high-end features on a premium SUV at a competitive price. The GLC 250 was already a big hit when it was introduced in Brunei a few months ago.

The GLC 200 is additionally powered by a 2.0 litre four inline engine, producing an output of 135 kW (184 hp) and 300 Nm of torque. It also comes with a standard nine-stage 9G-tronic automatic transmission. The units are already being booked as we speak, leaving only a few units left.

Mercedes-Benz in Brunei Darussalam have been a popular choice despite the economic downturn. As customers now looking for more value added in a premium brand, Mercedes-Benz does deliver and that’s one of the main reason why Jati Transport have been doing moderately well in the car industry.

Do visit Jati Transport showroom or call 244 1763 or 244 1777 for more information.

YESSSS, the Mercedes-Benz GLC 200 is already in town 😀

I had a pleasure of driving the GLC 200 in Kota Kinabalu back in August

It’s definitely a good ride.

Mark Raine, Mercedes-Benz Cars vice-president of sales and marketing (Malaysia), has been active in the car scene lately, leading record sales for Mercedes last year with almost 12,000 units sold in 2016. There are many interesting factors that contributed to the growth of Mercedes-Benz in Malaysia and also in South East Asia.

What has made the premium brand a success as of late? What are their recipes to success and sustainability? I have the privilege to interview Mark Raine during my short visit to Kota Kinabalu last week. Mark is a very easy going lad and very approachable. Thank you for hosting the media and customers last week and arranging a great three day event in showcasing how Mercedes-Benz is not just a product but a lifestyle.

Interviewing Mark Raine at Shangrila’s Rasa Ria

Rano Iskandar: Can you share the growth of Mercedes-Benz and its growing presence in South East Asia?

Mark Raine: I believe we have a holistic approach in our brand, Mercedes-Benz and this has been a huge factor in our growth and being a brand leader in the premium category. We don’t only have the best car but also focusing on customer centric in a way of doing our business, to give a more positive customer experience before and after sales. Even the process of buying a Mercedes is taken into account such as having a competent website, digital approach and also the consultation process. All these are essential in the buying process so in the end, the customers are happy with their choices. This is already half the victory in catering to what the customers want.

The real deal starts after the sales and we at Mercedes emphasizes deeply in this area as this will determine our loyalty of our customers. It has proven a success and it is no doubt that the growth of Mercedes in the premium sector has increased despite the downturn in the economy in SEA.

The extension of the models from Mercedes-Benz has helped to elevate the growth of the brand in the premium sector. These are such as the SUV models – the GLEs, GLCs and GLAs being introduced in the market.

Rano Iskandar: Speaking of the trend, is this segment a huge trend in the region for Mercedes and how it came about?

Mark Raine: Yes, this is more of a global trend that SUVs have impacting the trend. However, there was little choices in the premium segment. We have a gut feeling and took a gamble in this segment and we believed that SUV is the thing of the future. This was also the key element of positioning of the Mercedes brand (in the SUV segment), focusing on lifestyle and affluent customers. This has helped to rejuvenate the brand while improving on innovation and technology.

Rano Iskandar: Why Kota Kinabalu as the prime destination for the #hungryforadventure ?

Mark Raine: The destination speaks for itself and we want to associate the mindset of our customers that our brand offers endurance, great positioning for different walks of life such as taking your children to school or on the weekend, bring your bike for a spin or going for a round of golf and lastly Kota Kinabalu gives a sense of adrenalin which resonates with our brand. We were fortunate that we have different weather conditions during our hill drive this morning at Sabah National Park and it showed what our SUVs are capable of.

We at Mercedes tend to organize events like this twice a year. We will invite our stakeholders along such as the media, the customers to showcase what SUVs are about and also being a premium brand, we want to be approachable to our customers by having a touch and feel on what Mercedes have to offer.

Rano Iskandar: Which model in Malaysia has been a top seller?

Mark Raine: It will be the C class and it targets all walks of life. However, it’s not the only model that has been popular but the compact cars and other models such as the E Class that was launched last year in Malaysia. Pretty soon we will be launching the new E 350E the latest hybrid brand. In terms of growth, it will be the SUVs and the GLC is the best selling in Malaysia and we sold over 3,000 units since its launch.

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

Rano Iskandar: Why introducing the GLC 200 if you already have the GLC 250?

Mark Raine: We have the GLC 250 which is a brilliant product. It’s an SUV 4WD and offers great speed and comfort, positioning it as a very sporty, luxury model.

However to a certain extent, we are only capturing a 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.

Rano Iskandar: The GLC 200 is locally assembled in Malaysia. Is there any difference from the ones being imported?

Mark Raine: No difference at all. Same car, same quality, same quality checks. In essence, the same car. In South East Asia, we have a local production because we have tax exemptions and it makes the pricing more attractive.

Rano Iskandar: The GLE 43 Coupe OrangeArt Limited Edition. Share me more about it.

Mark Raine: It’s already available through order. It’s very limited and exclusive order. It’s very eccentric and flashy feel. It has a 21 inch AMG wheels with the OrangeArt Edition exterior package. We even have the Night Package. The eccentric and unique edition features extravagant design highlights including striking expressive decals in the orange on the front apron and the AMG wheels painted in high-gloss black and rim flange painted in orange.

The GLE 43 Coupe Orange Art Edition making it a high end personalised edition giving that special, individualized character and it’s definitely a striking appeal.

I had the privilege to test drive the GLC 200 and it will available in Brunei market hopefully by November 2017

Loving the feel and the drive. Of course, I love the AMG GLC 250 but this model is still good enough to keep me satisfied

A nice touch when I opened the door of the GLC 200