It’s been a while since the Kia Sorento made headlines in Malaysia, but it’s time to give this underappreciated gem another look. Yes, the price is steep – at RM 255k for the range-topping 2.2D AWD variant, many would dismiss it outright. After all, the Mazda CX-8 tops out at RM 220k for the 2.5T AWD. Being a Kia, the Sorento faces the age-old hurdle of perception. For that price, buyers expect a badge with more “premium” cachet. Even I, as much as I admire the Sorento’s capabilities, can empath
Dec 11, 2024
Motorsports has always been a spectacle of speed, skill, and sacrifice—but often for the privileged, gated by steep costs and limited opportunities. In a world where rising expenses often curtail motorsport ambitions, sim racing has emerged as the great equaliser. For dreamers like Malaysia's Taj Aiman and Indonesia's Andika Rama, it’s a lifeline to prove that Asia's racers can stand tall amongst the world's best. Come 7-December, the historic streets of Amsterdam will welcome 24 of the world’s
Nov 25, 2024
When you pull up to the pump, you’ve likely noticed the difference in price between RON 95 and RON 97. But is paying extra for RON 97 worth it for your car? The answer depends largely on your engine type, driving habits, and your car’s manufacturer recommendations. What is RON? RON, or Research Octane Number, measures a fuel’s resistance to premature combustion or engine knocking. Higher RON numbers mean the fuel can withstand greater compression before igniting, making it ideal for engines desi
Nov 25, 2024
With the potential removal of petrol subsidies on the horizon, many Malaysians are rethinking their vehicle choices. Battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) present an increasingly attractive option, not just for environmental reasons but for their potential financial savings. Here's how driving electric in Malaysia can help you keep more money in your pocket, even when electricity rates are high. Electricity costs vs petrol prices Currently, RON 95 petrol is capped at RM 2.05 per litre. However, with
Oct 25, 2024
The battery-electric vehicle (BEV) wave is rolling through Malaysia, and for first-time buyers, it might feel like stepping into uncharted waters. While the concept of driving a BEV is straightforward, the details surrounding ownership are a bit more nuanced. This guide aims to break it all down, from charging infrastructure to everyday maintenance, so you can join the BEV revolution confidently. Charging Infrastructure: Growing but Still Evolving One of the biggest concerns for potential BEV ow
Oct 21, 2024
Even as the dust has barely settled from the intense competition at last weekend's Toyota Gazoo Racing Gran Turismo Cup (TGR GT) Asia Finals, you won't find Taj Aiman and Andika Rama sleeping in. After all, this duo are Asian champions, now shouldering the hopes of a continent as they head into the TGR GT Cup Global Finals in Amsterdam this December. Our compatriot Taj Aiman, putting in spectacular, consistent performances all season, will be joined by the talented Indonesian, Andika Rama, who c
Oct 16, 2024
We’ve all heard it before: “Battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) might be great for some countries, but can they handle Malaysia’s tropical climate?” With scorching temperatures, high humidity, and unpredictable rainy spells, it’s a fair concern. But with the rise of BEVs in our market, like the Neta models available through CARSOME, it’s time we bust some myths and see how they truly perform in our weather. Let’s start with the big question: Can BEVs survive our relentless heat and humidity? The an
Oct 14, 2024
Let’s face it – driving in Malaysia often means spending a lot of time in traffic. Whether you’re inching through the daily grind of rush hour or cruising along the highways, your car becomes more than just a mode of transport; it’s your mobile haven. And for many of us, the primary source of solace during those long drives is music. Given how much time we spend in our vehicles, you’d think more manufacturers would put serious thought into the audio systems that define our driving experience. Ye
Oct 11, 2024
If there’s one word to describe the Toyota Vios, it would be pedestrian. I must admit the current fourth-generation AC100 is the boldest-looking Vios but it is a car that will not stir up hearts and serves as a faultless transport. However, being a popular car does not mean that it has zero performance potential with Toyota Gazoo Racing Malaysia organizing a one-make race series featuring the Vios since 2017. Now in its seventh season, the Toyota Vios Challenge just completed its second round wi
Oct 9, 2024
Surrounded by all the expensive luxury cars, there’s a truly special car sometimes spotted around Bangsar. It isn’t an exotic but it is a truly rare sight because this particular car is a bone stock red Nissan 180SX that was driven by an elderly couple. Before some JDM aficionado starts spouting out “#GOALS” like it is 2017, it probably won’t be surprising if the owners are often asked by those same fans if their clean sports car is for sale. I highly doubt the new owners would keep it clean tho
Oct 2, 2024