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  1. Consumer Reports’ New Annual Auto Reliability Data Reveals Safest Bets and Riskiest Choices Among New Vehicles Lexus achieves top spot among automakers in auto reliability brand ranking with Mazda, Toyota, close behind. Buick continues as the most reliable domestic brand--and the only one in top 10. https://www.consumerreports.org/media-room/press-releases/2021/11/consumer-reports-new-annual-auto-reliability-data-reveals-safest-bets-and-riskiest-choices-among-new-vehicles/ Release date 11/18/2021. YONKERS, NY — Eight of the top ten most reliable brands are from Asia, and only one--Buick--is a domestic, according to the latest Annual Auto Reliability data from Consumer Reports (CR), the nonprofit research, testing, and consumer advocacy organization. But there were some positive indicators for the domestics, too, as American models topped seven vehicle categories--an unusually strong showing. The 2021 Auto Reliability Report is based on data collected from CR members about their experiences with more than 300,000 vehicles in the annual surveys. The survey findings were announced at an online news conference before the Detroit-based Automotive Press Association today. Owners reported everything from transmissions needing replacement after as little as 5,000 miles to display screens that required hardware replacement and misaligned tailgates and doors. "With new-car prices at all-time highs and a shortage of vehicles on dealers’ lots, it’s more important than ever to consider reliability when you invest in something new,” said Jake Fisher, senior director of auto testing at Consumer Reports. “Buying a reliable vehicle can help ensure that you’ll be able to hit the road when you need to, and not worry about getting stuck waiting on parts for repairs.” Other highlights from CR’s influential annual report include the following: Despite their complexity, hybrids and plug-in vehicles are among the most reliable models. High-end electric-powered Sport Utility Vehicles are among the least reliable vehicles, but NOT because of their relatively simple powertrains. Complex electronics are their Achilles Heel, at least for now. Some Hyundai, Kia, Subaru, and Toyota models continue to have problems due to technologically advanced, and complex, transmissions. CR’s auto statisticians calculate reliability ratings for every major mainstream car, minivan, SUV, and truck on the market, even ones that are brand-new and redesigned for 2021. To do so, the team analyzes annual CR member surveys data on a model’s reliability history, calculating the brand’s overall reliability and, if applicable, the reliability of models that use some of the same components. Consumer Reports’ analysis of new-car reliability is a key element of CR’s Overall Score, which is a holistic measure of a vehicle’s quality designed to make it easy for consumers to quickly find the best cars, SUVs, and trucks to suit their needs. The Overall Score also includes road-test performance, owner satisfaction survey results, whether a vehicle comes with key active safety systems, and results from crash tests, if applicable. “The pandemic is creating a scramble for consumers as they face a reduced supply of new cars and significantly higher prices. That's why it's more important than ever that people get trusted help finding safe, secure, and reliable vehicles,” said Marta Tellado, President and CEO of Consumer Reports. “Our annual reliability reports, combined with our comprehensive auto testing, can empower consumers with the trusted information to make better purchases and navigate this unusually difficult marketplace.” Eight of the 10 Top Brands are from Asia Of the top ten most reliable automakers, eight are headquartered in Asia, with Lexus, Mazda, and Toyota in the top three spots respectively. Historically, Lexus and Toyota have regularly been at the top of CR’s brand rankings for reliability. That’s an especially noteworthy accomplishment for Toyota, which has a wide array of different nameplates in the survey--13 in all. Mazda, which was the top brand overall last year, falls to second place. Mazda’s above average overall performance was marred by the Mazda3 small car, which has average predicted reliability due to problems with its climate system and in-car electronics issues. Mazda has a conservative design approach with shared platforms and similar components, which helps it to produce reliable vehicles overall. Mazda has also stuck with its dependable six-speed automatic transmission while other automakers use more complex ones with eight or nine ratios or continuously variable transmissions, some of which have proven troublesome. All Lexus models score average or better for reliability in CR’s report. The Lexus GX SUV is the most reliable new vehicle overall this year; owners reported no problems for the three model years that CR analyzed in the brand rankings. The UX is Lexus' only average model. Third-ranking Toyota has only one model scoring below average, the Corolla Hatchback; CR’s members reported issues that required a transmission replacement or rebuild. The RAV4 remains average mostly because of problems filling the fuel tank on some versions. The Tacoma and the redesigned-for-2021 Sienna are both also average; the Sienna showed some power equipment problems. Both the RAV4 Prime and Venza, new for 2021, are well above average. Infiniti ranks fourth overall, an admirable improvement of six spots this year. The Q50 sedan remains impressive and the troublesome QX50 SUV improved to average. Buick is the most reliable domestic brand, coming in at fifth place overall. The Encore and redesigned Envision are both well-above average, and the Encore GX is above average. Surprisingly, the Enclave drops to below average, with transmission, drive system, and blank in-car electronics screen issues. High Rankings for Several Domestic Models Mark Signs of Improvement for U.S. Manufacturers Models from five domestic brands, Buick, Chevrolet, GMC, Chrysler, and Ford, take the top spots in seven categories--an unusually strong showing. They include: Buick Envision (Luxury Compact SUVs) Chevrolet Trailblazer (Subcompact SUVs) Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD and its twin the GMC Sierra 2500HD (Full-sized Pickups) Chrysler 300 (Midsized/Large Cars) Ford Bronco Sport (Compact SUVs) Ford Mustang Mach-E (Electric SUVs) Ford Ranger (Midsized Pickups) CR’s data also shows that hybrids and plug-in vehicles are among the most reliable models even though they have unusually complicated drivetrains. These vehicles include the Honda Insight, Kia Niro and the Toyota Prius, Prius Prime, RAV4 Prime, and Venza. One likely reason for their reliability is that most of these are well-established models that haven’t seen radical changes over the years. Even the new-for-2021 Venza uses a tried-and-true powertrain. The analysis also shows that fully-electric SUVs are among the least reliable vehicles. They include the Tesla Model X and Y, Audi E-Tron and Volkswagen ID.4. All have a high rate of problems in areas other than the electric powertrain. Some of these problems include climate controls, in-car electronics, and power equipment. Honda Ranks Sixth in Brand Rankings Honda ranks sixth among brands, down one from last year, with the Insight scoring well-above average. The CR-V, Accord, and Ridgeline score above average and the remaining models are all average. Both the Passport and Odyssey have improved, though owners still report issues with the infotainment system freezing and power equipment. Some Odyssey owners also report problems with the sliding doors. Subaru comes in seventh overall. The Crosstrek is well-above average, and the Legacy, Impreza, and Forester are above average. However, the Ascent still has subpar reliability. Acura's rank is eighth overall. The TLX has exhibited impressive reliability in its first year after a redesign, and the redesigned 2022 MDX has above average first-year reliability after below-average reliability with its previous generation. The RDX improves from below average to average, though it still has ongoing issues with brakes, power equipment, and in-car electronics with the display screen freezing and needing hardware replacement, and software updates failing. Nissan improves this year, moving up to ninth place--mostly because of older models including the Rogue Sport, Murano, and Leaf, which show impressive reliability. Mini rounds out the top 10, making it the highest-ranked European automaker this year. Mini only has two models in the survey, the Cooper Countryman and Cooper/Clubman, and jumps 13 places in the standing. The jump is mainly attributed to its Cooper Countryman's outstanding reliability. Hyundai falls four positions this year to rank eleventh. The redesigned Tucson is well-above average, and the Sonata and Palisade are also above average. The Kona Electric and freshened Santa Fe are below average, with, respectively, battery pack and electric drive motor problems, and transmission and power equipment issues. Kia drops three to 19th place this year, with transmissions being the brand's weak spot. The eight-speed dual clutch transmission that is used with the turbo engine in the redesigned Sorento is problematic. Owners of the Soul, Seltos, and Forte report a problem-prone CVT that could require replacement. The Niro Electric improved and the Telluride remains outstanding. Genesis’ reliability is suffering as the brand rapidly grows with new models. While the G70 has improved to average, the new GV80 SUV scores well-below average due to infotainment screen and drive system problems. Four Domestic Brands are Midpack Domestic brands are midpack or below--Chrysler at 12th, Chevrolet at 14, Cadillac at 16th, and Ford at 18th. Jeep, Tesla, and Lincoln took the three bottom ranks. Chrysler has just two vehicles in the survey--the 300, which has outstanding reliability, and the Pacifica minivan, which is well-below average due to issues including the transmission and sliding doors. Chevrolet models spread across almost the entire range of CR’s reliability scale--some excellent and some subpar. The new Trailblazer SUV and the Trax are both excellent. After years of respectable reliability, the Bolt EV dropped to below average, due to battery problems and electric drive failures, among other issues. The Silverado 2500HD and Blazer are above average. Others, including the Corvette and redesigned Tahoe, are well-below average. GMC's rank dropped because of similar problems as twin models from Chevrolet. The Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Canyon are all below- or well-below average. GMC’s only above-average vehicle was the Sierra 2500HD. Cadillac improved six spots this year, helped by the reliable XT5 SUV. The XT6 and XT4 are below- and well-below average, respectively. Ford is showing improvement this year, with the new Bronco Sport, Mustang Mach-E, and Ranger all at the top of their classes for reliability. But the redesigned F-150 scored below average, as did the Escape. Both the Mustang and the Explorer are well-below average. Ram drops the most in CR’s brand ranking this year, sliding twelve spots to 21st. While the Ram 2500 and 1500 are both average, the 1500 Classic (the previous generation 1500) has well-below average reliability marked by problems with brakes, emissions systems, engine, and power equipment. Jeep ranks 26 and among the bottom three brands. The company’s most reliable model last year, the Gladiator, fell below average. The Cherokee and Wrangler are both below average. The Wrangler has issues with the drive system, in-car electronics, and, like the similar Gladiator, with the steering and suspension. The Cherokee has in-car electronics and some transmission issues. Tesla, with four models in the survey, is unchanged at second from last. While Tesla’s Model 3 has average reliability, the Model Y still has body hardware issues with the tailgate and door alignment, paint defects, and multiple other problems. The Model X and Model S both have body hardware, climate system, and in-car electronics problems. All Lincoln models have below-average reliability, with the Corsair and Aviator being well-below average. They, along with the Nautilus, have transmission, in-car electronics and power equipment problems. Mixed Bag for European Models Porsche ranks midpack at 13, down two from last year. The Cayenne and Macan have average and above-average reliability. Audi is unchanged at 15th. The A4 and A5 remain above average, and are joined by the A6 and Q5. The Q7 is average, but the Q3 has below-average reliability. The Q8 and E-Tron, both well-below average, continue to have drive system and power equipment issues. BMW is in 17th, down four. The X5, 3 Series, 5 Series, and X3 all have average reliability, but the redesigned 4 Series has subpar reliability due to power equipment problems. Volvo is 20th overall, down one. The XC90 continues to score well-below average, mostly due to issues with brakes, climate system, and body hardware. The S60 dropped to below average this year also because of multiple issues. The XC40 is average and the XC60 is now above average. Mercedes-Benz is in 23rd, down two from last year. The only reliable model is the GLC. The E-Class fell to below average and the GLE remains well-below average, with numerous power equipment, climate system, in-car electronics, and some engine problems. Volkswagen is at 24th overall, up 1 from last year. While the Atlas and Jetta improved to average reliability, the Tiguan and the new ID.4 EV are both subpar. For more information on CR’s 2021 #CRCarReliability findings, visit CR.org/reliability or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @consumereports. About Consumer Reports Annual Auto Reliability Surveys The latest Consumer Reports Annual Auto Reliability Surveys, gathered information from the organization's members on more than 300,000 vehicles from model years 2000 to 2021. Members filled out online surveys in the spring and summer of 2021. CR’s reliability predictions are based on overall reliability for the past three model years, provided the vehicle has not been redesigned. One or two years of data will be used if the model was redesigned in 2021 or 2020. CR bases its reliability analysis on data gathered from CR members each year about problems they had with their vehicles in the past 12 months. CR’s team of statisticians and survey researchers, then analyzed trouble areas and created an overall reliability score for each model and year. Serious problem areas that can lead to expensive repairs are more heavily weighted. More information can be found at www.CR.org.
  2. Voxy28

    MAZDA 6

    How come this model like no value one? 5k dep nia... Sell that time should be 4k...... jialat. Is it a problematic car?
  3. Fellows

    Kia K5

    I really like their 2024 KIA Sportage 1.6L hybrid, but it never come Singapore at all. My dad still got the old mindset in 2024 that Korean car like KIA and Hyundai more difficult to maintain and not much resell value when selling perhaps 6-7 years time later compare to Toyota as he drove Honda and Toyota throughout his life. I told him downgrade the car as he tiring soon no need to drive such a big car with high installment and road tax. So I recommend him KIA NIRO Hybrid SX or Hyundai Avante Hybrid but of course cannot compare with current PI 2.0NA Toyota Harrier SUV that we had now. He never even test drive these Korean brand before, die die don’t want these 2 Korean brand then say Conti expensive + high maintenance fee and he dislike Mazda. Not much choice left, I told him then you go test drive the 2024 1.6L facelift Toyota Corolla Altis which also around $150K as we looking for new car these few months as the new 2.5L Harrier Hybrid cost $235K, wth $235K for a Toyota is really sucks.
  4. CX5 spacious? The Corolla Cross is a compact crossover (yaris cross is subcompact). Whereas the CX5 is supposed to be a mid size crossover (but is actually more like a compact). How ridiculously bad is mazda at maximising cabin space? Well out of these 3 cars, Rav4/CX5/CRV. The CX5 has the longest wheelbase but the least rear legroom by quite a margin. My kids are comfortable in the back but their waterbottles hanging off the car hooks is in between their knees. And this is with myself having a much more upright seat compared to my usual driving position in a sedan. For myself, i sure won't want to seat in the backseat on a longer drive. I'm 1.8m and i can see the HUD just fine leh. Mazda is for singles/couples and some families where everyone is bit smaller size lah. Dunno how those bui bui americans fit in a mazda. Looks swee, best jap interior but really the cabin space is at best barely acceptable.
  5. Hi newbie here. Have an urgent qn to ask and need answer so thought of this forum. I understand need a certain number of posts here but I don't frequent forums habitually. If anyone see this question kindly guide me. My question. If my car vibrate when idle / stopping at traffic light.. and rpm constant.. and okay when driving, is that a cause for concern *? 8 years old car and mileage 120k. Mazda 3. What can I do. Please.
  6. 1 of the best & most Sucessful Mazda Model ever Made.
  7. sinistral

    MAZDA 6

    @boonhat_91 I guess Mazda 6s in Japan are all GJ models. 400001 likely means it's the latest facelift version. 200001-399999 is the first facelift. The GL models are probably meant for overseas market - maybe it starts from 300001. Mazda's VIN for the US may not follow the same format as the VINs for their European/Asian market. I believe you should be able to retrofit the newer fuel injectors but I seriously doubt you can feel any significant difference.
  8. VW Singapore plots Skoda comeback Volkswagen-owned Czech brand Skoda is making a comeback, yet again. But this time, it is parent group Volkswagen which will do its own importing and retailing here. Volkswagen Group Singapore - the manufacturer-owned importer and retailer of Volkswagen vehicles here - has registered a new company for this purpose. According to the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority, Skoda Centre Singapore was registered last month and will be operating out of 247 Alexandra Road, which is the same address as the VW showroom. The Straits Times understands renovations are being carried out at the facility and that Skoda Centre Singapore will start operations in the first quarter of next year. Volkswagen Group Singapore was not available for comment, but it is understood that a meaningful price differential will be in place to re-launch the Czech brand here. Previously, Skoda cars - which are based on Volkswagens - were the same price or even costlier than equivalent VW models. In other markets, Skodas are cheaper. The brand was last represented by Harvest Automobiles, part of businessman Peter Kwee's now dormant motor group of companies. Harvest Automobiles went bust in 2013 - the third Skoda agency to have failed in Singapore. The Straits Times understands Vertex Automobiles, the dealer for Chinese automobile brand Chery that is owned by egg trader Lian Fong, had made a pitch for the Skoda franchise. But it has since landed Seat, a Spanish brand also owned by Volkswagen Group. Skoda had also been courting Trans Eurokars, a multi-franchise group owned by businessman Karsono Kwee. Among its brands are Rolls-Royce, Porsche, Mini and Mazda. The best year for the Skoda brand here was 2010, when it sold 105 cars. That is less than 4 per cent of Volkswagen sales last year. Will the brand have better success under Volkswagen? Nanyang Business School's Adjunct Associate Professor Zafar Momin, previously an automotive expert with the Boston Consulting Group, said: "Skoda may be able to make a comeback in Singapore if priced and promoted properly. It needs to be very competitive with its Korean competitors in terms of pricing, as it could provide solid, competitive products targeted at value segments of the markets. "With VW Singapore now doing it themselves, it has a better chance than before. Having said that, I wonder what "comeback" really means in a small crowded Singapore car market which has small volumes for many non-mainstream brands. Would it really be worth the effort and to what extent would it cannibalise VW products?" When contacted back in 2014 - when Harvest Automobiles relinquished the business - Volkswagen Group Singapore said it had no plans to take over the Skoda retail business here. It has, however, taken over the maintenance and warranty of Skodas here. There are about 400 Skoda cars in Singapore today. As a onwer of both Skoda and VW model, I can attest that Skoda is indeed better, in almost every aspect, than VW. I can wait to welcome it back to Singapore!! Here are some interesting models in current Skoda lineup, that I hope can be made available to local motorist when sales start next year. Superb Superb Combi Kodiaq
  9. https://mothership.sg/2024/03/getgo-car-hit-lamppost-punggol/ GetGo car mounts kerb & hits lamppost in Punggol after failing to stop, brake lights seen on for 100m before crash A GetGo car was caught on camera mounting the kerb and hitting a lamppost in Punggol, after failing to stop behind other cars at a traffic junction. A video of the incident is circulating online, and prompted some to speculate that the driver was sleeping, or not paying attention for some other reason. However, keen-eyed commenters put forward a different theory of what happened, suggesting that it may not have been the driver's fault. What the video showed The undated video showed a Mazda 3 bearing the GetGo livery travelling north along Punggol Way, towards the Punggol Field intersection, where some cars had stopped at the road junction. As it passed under a pedestrian overhead bridge, the GetGo car's brake lights came on. It did not appear to hit any other vehicles. The brake lights remained on up till the point of impact. Commenters suspect brake failure The car's brake lights were on as the car approached the junction, and were on for at least 5 to 7 seconds before the car mounted the kerb. Commenters on Facebook shared their suspicion that the car's brakes may have failed and that the car driver had taken evasive action to prevent ramming into the vehicles ahead. The distance between the pedestrian overhead bridge (where the car's brake lights came on) and the lamppost (which the car eventually hit) is about 100 metres. According to the highway code, the estimated braking distance of a car travelling at 60km/h is 27 metres.
  10. Source: https://www.motor1.com/news/693042/mazda-iconic-sp-concept-rotary/ The Mazda Iconic SP concept made its debut at the Japan Mobility Show today with a novel feature that sports car fans have been clamoring for since 2012: a rotary engine. Looking very much like the company’s Vision Study design piece from last year, the fixed-roof Iconic SP is a bit larger than the current MX-5 Miata, making it a tantalizing continuation of the RX-7’s legacy. But unlike that legendary coupe, the Iconic SP makes use of its two-rotor mill not to drive the wheels, but to charge a battery of unknown capacity, which then sends juice to an unspecified electric motor layout. While there are those burning questions about the so-called R-EV’s powertrain specifics, wherever the juice comes from, there sure is a lot of it – 365 horsepower to be precise. Mazda says the rotary can run on a variety of fuels, including hydrogen and renewable fuel, and the battery can also be plugged into a home outlet to recharge it. Coming in at 164.6 inches long by 82.8 inches wide and 45.2 inches high, the Iconic SP is 10.5 inches longer than a current MX-5 Miata and 4.1 inches shorter than a 1995 RX-7. According to the company, the Iconic SP weighs in at a slightly portly 1,450 kilograms (3,197 pounds), making it about 400 pounds heavier than the RX-7 and about 800 pounds more than the Miata. Such is the price one pays for electrons, and the Iconic SP still isn’t that heavy compared to the 3,342-pound Toyota Supra or 3,519-pound Nissan Z. It wears its size very well, too. Mazda says the compact powertrain allows a very low hood and ultra-compact dimensions, and the Iconic SP’s Coke-bottle fenders provide a modern contrast to the RX-7-style windows and rear hatch. The automaker’s modern grille shape appears on the nose, and Venn-diagram taillights recall both the NA-generation Miata and FC-generation RX-7. The doors open in a graceful, upward motion, not unlike Aston Martin's swan wing design. The Iconic SP is painted a beautiful shade called Viola Red, which is brighter than the company’s signature Soul Red Crystal – appropriate for a sports car. Inside, the Iconic SP is a triumph of minimalism, with a typewriter-key gear selector, digital instrument cluster, and small infotainment display being the only distractions from its curvaceous, flowing design. The kakenui stitching first seen on the CX-90 SUV appears on the Iconic SP concept’s dashboard and door panels, and the seats wear biofabric upholstery (a word we haven’t heard Mazda use since it developed a seat material made from renewable plastic in 2009). The combination of plug-in electric and range-extender tech isn’t new, even at Mazda – the MX-30 PHEV has a 0.8-liter single-rotor powerplant under the hood to keep the battery charged. The two-rotor engine in the Iconic SP might displace 1.6 liters, given the MX-30 uses a 0.8-liter single-rotor design. What’s more, the mill in the sports car can be used as a V2L generator, appropriate for everything from tailgate parties to backup power during severe weather. Mazda describes the engine architecture as scalable, so it’s possible the renewable-fuel rotary technology could be used for other applications. Dedicated home generators could make use of small-displacement rotaries, while larger vehicles could potentially daisy-chain rotors together to make bigger power. That said, the Iconic SP concept is a vehicle that is intended to underscore Mazda’s commitment to driving enjoyment first and foremost. “Mazda will always deliver vehicles that remind people that cars are pure joy and an indispensable part of their lives,” said company Representative Director, President, and CEO Masahiro Moro. “As a car-loving company that mass produces the inspiring mobility experience, we are committed to shaping the future … where everyone can proudly say, ‘We love cars.’”
  11. Official drawings of the 2019 Mazda3 – keep in mind that at this time, we don’t know if it will be sold as a 2019MY or 2020MY in the U.S.A. and Canada. The new “3” will employ Mazda’s latest Skyactiv-Vehicle Architecture. The platform is said to be stronger while providing a much better ride quality. But the big news for the fourth-generation “3” is the debut of Mazda’s new SkyActiv-X gasoline enginefeaturing Spark Controlled Compression Ignition. This innovative four-cylinder unit combines characteristics of diesel and regular gasoline engines, using spark plug ignition to “control compression ignition”. In short, it ignites the fuel-air mixture similar to a diesel engine promising to combine the fuel efficiency of the former with all the benefits of a gasoline unit, without the emissions penalty. Mazda forecasts an output of around 190 horsepower with 170 lb-ft (230Nm) of peak torque from the 2.0-liter version. That puts it well above today’s 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G that delivers 155hp and 150 lb-ft (203Nm) and on par with the bigger 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G with 184hp and 185 lb-ft (250Nm). The difference here is that Mazda is targeting at least a 20 percent improvement in fuel economy and up to 25 percent less carbon dioxide emissions over the current Skyactive G engines. Mazda Kai Concept Wants To Get Our Hopes Up For New Mazda3
  12. boonhat_91

    MAZDA 6

    Hi all, any accurate resource to check parts catalogue for Singapore Mazda 6? Cannot find my VIN on fitinpart, and fitinpart also doesn't have every single item. Furthermore the model code is a bit confusing to me when I look at some overseas results - my 2017 model is JM6GL1031xxxxxxxx, yet a 2018 FL model I came across is JM6GL1032xxxxxxxx - and most overseas catalogs just call this generation as GJ. I did read somewhere that GL code is used for >2016 manufactured models. If the last 6 digits are the serial number, is it running consecutively from the first GL-code or does it reset to 000001 for the first 2018 FL model? On that same note, is it running consecutively across GJ to GL (e.g. GJxxxxxx499999 followed by GLxxxxxx500000)? Also, is the VIN and serial number running consecutively globally or is it unique to Singapore only?
  13. Next time you sell your car to a dealer just clock it and get a better price! Get your MIL to sell to the dealer and tell them she is the driver. Retired _ _ _ and only drive at weekend to market! Make clocking work for you and if the dealer sues you in court like that lawyer that bought the clocked Mazda 3 and lost his case, get the lawyer used by the dealer!
  14. Hit the Merc,Mazda in D,Merc moved..maybe because block the Road...Mazda become self driven.
  15. Mazda driver must have thought a giant took a s*** on his car. What happened? A Mazda driver was travelling along Marymount Lane when they no doubt s*** themselves after it looked like someone s*** on their car. As we can see in the video, a construction zone beside the road had some equipment malfunction, with a cable/tube snapping and unleashing a torrent of mud. The unlucky Mazda was able to get ahead by just a bit before the massive brown load splattered all over the road, leaving part of his windshield unobscured while the rear and roof of the car was covered in the filth. The brown shower did not end there however, as we see the mud continue to gush out of a tube before it finally ended. If there is a silver lining, maybe it’s that it could have smelled worse? Online chatter Some made joke of the free ‘mud bath’. Others were a little more concerned that this could happen, as if it was metal or concrete that fell instead there would be far more damage and possible casualties. ========= Be the first to get the latest road/ COE news and get first dibs on exclusive promos and giveaways in our Telegram SGCM Community. Join us today!
  16. Quick check because most of the discussions are sometimes back. How much to remove booth spoiler and respray booth? Spoiler is just glue on type for Mazda 3? Workshop please.
  17. N/A Engines,like Mazda & Toyota Akinson Cycle Engine used 0W20,(Toyota Owner Maunal said 0W16 Oil),Turbocharged Cars better use a slightly thicker Oil.
  18. We're nearing the end of 2023, which means the door is closing on a number of vehicles as automakers have rolled out most of their new products for next year. That means many of the cars, trucks, and SUVs that we love so much won't make it to 2024. Luxury brands like Audi and Mercedes-Benz are putting multiple cars to rest as they prep new products, while American automakers like Chrysler and Dodge have at least one vehicle going the way of the dodo as they prep for the upcoming EV onslaught. Even a few supercars won’t stick around next year, some destined to be replaced by more powerful models. More cars will join this list next year. For now, let's say our goodbyes and remember those vehicles we've lost. Alpina BMW B7 Alpina inked a deal with BMW early last year that ended the in-house tuner's independent run, giving the automaker full control of the company after 2025. With that, the Alpina B7 – based on the BMW 7 Series – won't see a direct successor based on the current generation with other Alpina models in danger of being discontinued as well. Audi R8 Audi's enduring supercar is finally reaching the end of the line. With the 2023 GT RWD model announced for the US (and priced at a cool $251,395), production of the R8 is officially winding down after 16 years spanning two generations. Audi TT The Audi TT will say its goodbyes after 25 years. The iconic sports car survived two and a half decades before the automaker made the decision to move on from the nameplate. Buyers in the UK will see a Final Edition model for 2023, while the RS Heritage Edition introduced last year will be the last of its kind for the US. Chevrolet Bolt EV The bigger Bolt EUV arrived with Chevy's refresh in 2022 boasting more interior passenger space, and for the first time, Super Cruise on a Chevy product. It too, though, was discontinued. It's unclear whether the new Ultium-based Bolt expected in the next few years will also include the larger EUV. Chevrolet Camaro Turbo The Chevrolet Camaro nameplate as a whole will stick around for one more year before it too is discontinued – but the base turbo model won’t. Chevrolet confirmed that the four-cylinder Camaro won’t be available for the 2024 model year, which means the base motor is now the 3.6-liter V6 making 335 hp. That version starts at $32,495. Chrysler 300 Chrysler is rolling out just a few thousand examples of the 300 sedan for the 2023 model year; only 2,300 units are available for buyers this year in both V8 and V6 variants. This 300, though, marks the end of the line for the muscle car after this generation survived 18 years following its debut for the 2005 model year. Dodge Challenger Dodge is reluctantly discontinuing the Challenger as the automaker moves to electrification, specifically with the arrival of the new Charger Daytona SRT EV. As one final act, though, Dodge released a variety of "Last Call" special edition Challengers, including the limited Demon 170 with 1,025 horsepower and a ridiculous 0-60 time of just 1.7 seconds. Dodge Charger Like the Challenger, Dodge is discontinuing the Charger sedan. The Charger sedan has been a staple in the Dodge lineup since its debut in 2006, with some truly awesome models like the Scat Pack, the Hellcat, and the Hellcat Redeye in that successful 17-year production run. Dodge Hellcat Models But it's not just the Challenger and Charger names that will be discontinued after the 2023 model year – Dodge is killing the entire Hellcat line, too. Reports indicate that the final Hellcat engine will be built later this year with the iconic supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine being phased out. Ferrari F8 Tributo Ferrari’s 488 replacement had a relatively short run. Believe it or not, only one (1) example of the F8 Tributo was officially imported into the US. But don’t worry, buyers that want the F8 coupe’s same stellar performance with the upgrade of a removable roof can still get their hands on an F8 Spider. That version starts at $319,342 and packs the same 3.9-liter V8 engine with 710 hp. Ferrari Portofino M Say arrivederci to the lovely Ferrari Portofino M as it’s set to be replaced by the Roma Spider in 2024. The Roma Spider boasts a more-powerful twin-turbocharged 3.9-liter V8 engine that gives it 612 horsepower and 561 pound-feet of torque, and it offers a traditional cloth roof as opposed to the Portofino’s convertible hardtop, which helps with weight. Ford Edge The mid-size Ford Edge probably won't survive after this year in part due to labor disputes at the automaker's Oakville Assembly plant in Canada. That, and the Blue Oval's ongoing transition to EVs. The Edge will live on in China in the form of a longer-wheelbase hybrid crossover, but there are currently no plans to bring that SUV to America. And as for the Lincoln Nautilus – the Edge's more luxurious cousin – it recently underwent a major makeover for the 2024 model year. Ford Explorer Hybrid If you work in law enforcement, you can still buy a Ford Explorer Hybrid. But for the average man, Ford is killing off its fuel-sipping mid-sizer. The current iteration of the Explorer Hybrid debuted in 2020, but it won't make to the 2024 model year. Hopefully another hybrid SUV is on the way. Ford Fiesta Although Ford hasn’t sold the Fiesta in the US since 2019, the seventh-generation model was available in Europe – but now it's being discontinued, too. Ford plans to fill its spot in the lineup with an all-electric version of the Puma crossover, with the last few examples of the Fiesta expected to roll out of Ford’s German factory in June. Ford Transit Connect Ford's smallest work van, the Transit Connect, won't survive through the 2024 model year. The company did have a new version of the Transit planned using the Maverick's platform, but those plans have reportedly been scrapped as well. Kia Stinger Although it was rumored that the Kia Stinger would be discontinued before the 2023 model year, the sporty sedan is at least sticking around for another short run before production ends in 2024. As a sendoff to the Stinger, Kia introduced a Tribute Edition model with Moonscape matte paint and new 19-inch wheels, with only 1,000 units planned worldwide. Kia Rio Kia is killing off the Rio for the 2024 model year. The automaker's smallest vehicle has been around globally since 1999, and this current generation debuted for the US in 2016. As of this year, it's still one of the cheapest cars in America with a base starting price of $17,875. There's still a change it will be replaced by a new affordable offering next year. Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring Like the Explorer, Lincoln is also discontinuing its mid-size SUV hybrid option. The Aviator Grand Touring won't make it to 2024, which, unlike the Ford, was a plug-in-hybrid vehicle and qualified for the full $7,500 tax credit in the US. Next year the Aviator will only be available with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6. Mazda CX-9 Mazda is discontinuing one three-row SUV in place of another. The longstanding CX-9 will disappear after the 2023 model year in place of the new-and-much-improved CX-90. The new CX-90 has more space, a punchier turbocharged inline-six engine, and for the first time on any Mazda of this size, a plug-in-hybrid option with up to 26 miles of range. The CX-9 won’t be missed. Mazda MX-30 Another Mazda that won’t survive in the US into 2024 is the compact MX-30 EV. With an abysmal 100 miles of range and a $34,645 starting price, the MX-30 was relatively fun to drive, but it didn’t offer enough range for its asking price. And you could only buy it in California. Hopefully better EVs are on the way from Mazda. McLaren 720S McLaren has already shut the door on the 720S sports car with production quietly coming to an end late last year. But the supercar maker already has a successor on the way dubbed the 750S – and it’s sold out until late next year. The 750S will reportedly have up to 740 hp and could debut as early as this month. Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet Mercedes is trimming down its lineup pretty dramatically. Last year the company discontinued the A-Class and CLS, and now the C-Class Cabriolet is next in line. The timeline isn’t totally clear, but reports suggest the C-Class convertible will be discontinued sometime between 2023 and 2024, meaning it likely won’t survive through the 2024 model year. Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe The C-Class convertible won’t be the only discontinued version of the compact luxury car. Mercedes also plans to kill off the C-Class Coupe at the same time, leaving only the sedan in the lineup for the foreseeable future. Mercedes-Benz CLS Another victim of Mercedes-Benz’s ongoing lineup simplification is the CLS. Last year the company killed off its sporty CLS 53 offering, but now the entire nameplate will disappear as production is officially slated to end in August. Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet The E-Class Cabriolet will follow the C-Class convertible on its way out the door with the larger two-door also being discontinued. It will follow the same timeline as the C-Class, with production slated to end sometime between this year and next. Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe And of course, just like the C-Class, Mercedes-Benz is also killing the E-Class Coupe sometime between now and 2024. With those two two-doors being discontinued, that means the updated AMG GT – whenever it debuts – will be the only true coupe in the lineup, not counting the many four-door "coupes." Mercedes-Benz Metris It might not be Mercedes-Benz’s most well-known model, but the Metris has been a staple among work vans since 1996. Now it’s being discontinued. Both the work and passenger versions of the Metris will be disappearing after this year. Nissan Maxima Nissan's full-size Maxima will reach the end of the line before the end of 2023. It was rumored that Nissan would replace the Maxima will a full-size EV last year, but with no new electric sedan on the way anytime soon, Nissan has quietly killed the Maxima prior to the 2024 model year. Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo With the debut of the new Panamera, Porsche is discontinuing the wagon variant in the US due to slow sales. The Sport Turismo accounted for less than 10 percent of total demand for the previous Panamera.
  19. Even Elon is impressed with Mazda for achieving this level of autonomous driving technology.
  20. I don't think Mazda 3 got this Remote Start/Stop System.
  21. Hey guys, been a long time since I've been active here, but you know what? I've been brewing a car taxation plan in the back of my mind for months, just never sat down to write it out. We all know the legendary COE and many of us by now have already said it needs a do-over, even the polimakers are starting to say something about giving it a do-over. But always without reconsidering what classifying cars should be. Since I'm never gonna get into the "job" of public service, here's my comprehensive... uh... suggestion? You wanna tl;dr? Fine, I'll leave one at the end. Total COE Restructure Let's start with the headliner, which is always our iconic certificates (we know our car don't last forever, because of COE). Since its inception, the COE has, for consumers, been fundamentally separated into categories A and B, which for now I will focus on. As a reminder; Category A represents passenger vehicles up to 1,600cc or 130hp (97kW), and Category B is just... anything over that, making the assumption that B category vehicles are inherently larger or more luxurious vehicles. Now, the main proclaimed goal of COE is managing the vehicle population, and ostensibly managing road congestion by limiting the volume of cars. With that stated intent in mind, who agrees that a car's power output and displacement has any real bearing on its ability to create congestion? Would ten buses cause more congestion than ten Golf Rs in the same stretch of road? Would ten Cat B Golf Rs cause more congestion than ten Cat A Golf (....what's it called now? 90TSI? Scrap that too) Ten buses would definitely block more road than ten Golfs, EA888 or not, but of course the counterpoint is that ten buses holds many times more people than ten Golfs, or even the equivalent number of Golfs in terms of length. Redefining the Categories... on Size. So my suggestion is, actually, quite simple - let's redefine COE categories based on the physical size of vehicles. This is easily accessible information, I cannot think of any car that you cannot get dimension information for, and if you really can't, there's nothing stopping the homologation department from breaking out a tape measure. I don't think I want to arbitrarily define numbers I think are suitable for separating Category A and B at the moment, but... If we consider trends, I'd say a comfortable position for Category A is 4,700mm long and below, as most "compact" sedans today remain in the ~4,650mm long range, and plenty of small hatchbacks are well low that. (Isn't it ridiculous that a 2020 G20 3-series now is longer than the 1994 Mazda Capella/626?) Anyway, keeping things simple would be using length, because that is usually what really determines how much space a car needs on a road. I consider 4.65m a median of sorts, 4.7~5m the range locals traditionally consider a large family car, and that anything over 5m, nobody is going to call that small. Cars under 4.4m are typically the 'small' ones today, you'd be hard pressed to still find something under 4m. Again, keeping it simple, if we were to retain a binary classification, Category A could be below 4.7m and Category B anything longer than that. Alternatively, we can expand it a little to include overall footprint, by taking length x width of the car, but given that lanes are lanes and people aren't supposed to be driving across two lanes, it occurred to me while writing this that that's really a little unnecessary, plus it makes it a tad harder to account for capacities. Long story short though, is let's just redefine COE categories based on size/length of a car, not its engine power/displacement, which no longer has any real direct bearing on its state of luxury, economy, efficiency, or, most importantly, physical size. COE Incentive for Family Vehicles With Singapore's infamously small land area, there's a consistent push for car sharing, reducing the number of individual vehicles, increasing the person per vehicle, and so on, but there's also a consistent and very unhappy demographic of families that for practical purposes need a vehicle on demand for themselves to manage their children. Yes, you can bring your kids on a bus, but with a stroller and all the like, managing a potentially rambunctious or easily upset child whilst carrying a baby or other nightmare scenarios, you can imagine all of that, and there are plenty of little articles about why families scrounge everything they can to afford a car even with the wide availability of ride hailing and our celebrated public transport. (Simply don't Go aside) By their nature, a sportscar, two seaters especially, have less capacity for transporting and are traditionally the domain of luxury, and rarely sit in the lower price classes. But at the same time, a tiny convertible like a Daihatsu Copen may be really just a recreational vehicle for two, but it takes up virtually no road at all compared to a Toyota Fortuner. With this in mind, I'd propose that any vehicle with less than five seats incur a COE multiplier - it should cost more to own a vehicle of this type, but it should still be in accordance with its size. As such, a 7-seater, which has the capacity to hold more people, and is often a choice made to accommodate a growing family, should be incentivized - it should have a COE reduction. Of course, it's always going to be true that cars spend a lot of time with less than their entire capacity filled, but there's really not a whole lot we can do to mitigate that. But the fact is that placing a Polo GTI in the same taxation category as a Nissan X-Trail, or a bus-lane demanding Aventador, is antithetical to the system's intent. Many of the times a family that really could do with a vehicle are the ones who are suffering the most from sky high COEs, whereas we know by now those who can afford their fifth Porsche don't really care too much about an extra $20k. Short version: COE classification based on size of the car COE Penalty for impractical sports vehicles with less usable seats COE benefit for practical family vehicles with more usable seats But hold on, why again do we need to fuss so much? The COE system has been unfairly cruel to the folks who can arguably need vehicles the most, and at real worst an annoyance to rental/fleet companies and affluent individuals with the means to own multiple cars. There needs to be a real restructuring to allow more cars to be used by these young families who struggle in many ways because they see cars as a necessity even with all their 'alternatives', while taking more from those who are ordering their third Cayman. Size is the thing that implicates congestion potential the most, and instead encouraging a population of many small cars, two Jazzes can hold five people (even if in relative discomfort) each compared to four in a standard S-class, while taking up only marginally more effective space on the road. A Prius makes barely over 130hp and gets shoved into Cat B, but who's gonna say a Prius is appreciably more luxury than a Corolla Altis? Power and displacement has long been detached from a car's class, but physically larger cars often really do be more inefficient and luxurious - compare, say, again, an Audi A1 to an Audi A6. You can have both with the 1.4TFSI engine, but the A4 is noticeably better built on the inside. Even accounting for the tune increase, the Cat B A4 1.4 is much less efficient because it weighs more. Then you have the obviously ridiculous Mercedes Benz MFA180 spec, (A180, B180, CLA180, etc.), which previously came with the M270 "RED" engine, RED standing for reduced - that brought the 1.6L engine from MFA200 specs of around 155hp to the Category A 130hp to allow the premium brand to sell Category A vehicles here. The thing that's widely ignored is that the Cat A "RED" engine is not only less powerful, but less efficient, both in the claimed numbers and in real use. A more recent example is the 2023 Honda Civic Turbo's local exclusive Cat A 129hp tune, a substantial reduction from the engine's normal 180hp variant, without being appreciably more efficient, and even before that KM is one of just 8 territories where the ancient 1.6L engine was recycled one more time for the 2017 Civic tenth gen. Many hybrids produce over 130hp but are more efficient, but automatically get discouraged by Cat B. I'll reiterate this point, but to summarise this section; The current COE structure is outdated, nonsensical even at its inception and does not keep cars affordable for lower income families who need them to better manage their children in their busy lives, an increasingly vocal demographic that we weigh all our hopes on. Managing one kid and one stroller on Bus MRT Walk is tough enough, but our population won't grow when it's so hard to care for your children. Plus, the absurd choice of metrics of power output and displacement to classify vehicles discourages innovation in powerplants that we seriously need for reducing the gasoline footprint, resulting in a larger population of cars with outdated engines. The World's Most Expensive Cars... with the lowest specifications We already know we have the most expensive cars in the world, but have you noticed we have the lowest specced cars in the world too? Why? ARF. The ARF taxation is why you pay for your car's value, at minimum, twice over - a car's ARF, before "incentives", is 100% of a vehicle's OMV, and gets worse from there. As such, higher spec vehicles incurring higher OMV incur higher ARF. This of course makes sense from the standpoint of taxing luxury, but it also means that dealers, with their immense margins, are not willing to bring in vehicles that are well equipped. Consider Citroën under C&C, which has for whatever reason decided that the storied French nameplate should be a lower cost brand. Their latest lineups have been exclusively brought in with pretty barebone specifications, lacking even electric seat options. "Premium" Automobiles has been perhaps the most depressing offender to me personally, with their hypocritical name - their cars routinely lack any manner of technology that befits Audi's slogan, just a few of the most obviously visible ones for "wow" factor - Virtual Cockpit for example was hyped early on. Due to the expensive taxation via ARF, batch homologation and lack of flexibility in bringing in cars of individually customized equipment levels, the dealers are largely discouraged from importing vehicles with full equipment lists - as someone who personally wants a car with all the trimmings, this has been a long running frustration of mine. Audi's presense active safety/assistance suite is available on...... I don't know, which? Only the A8? The Q8 doesn't even have the sunglasses compartment and lined interior visors, for crying out loud. You can get all of those on... a Skoda Octavia. For far less. Why do I care so much about these features? Because many of these are safety technologies that are being exorcised from premium cars, safety technologies I was one of the earliest to adopt. I've a 2015 model year vehicle featuring adaptive cruise, blind spot warnings and lane keeping assist, four years before these features have reached Singapore's mainstream. And you still struggle to get these as standard on an Audi, a BMW, or a Mercedes. Even though they're widely available from mainstream brands now (Peugeot, Toyota SafetySense, Honda Sensing, Subaru Eyesight, Mazda has it too, so on), the premium marques don't offer adaptive cruise or their full safety suites, at best a cut down variant. PML BMWs have begun to have Driving Assistant across all cars, but this is limited to camera based front active city braking, blind spot warning and lane keeping, you are still denied RADAR based active cruise. And the PA imported Audi S3 in 2019 did not come with a reverse camera. I want an upgrade, not a downgrade. There needs to be more emphasis on safety technologies and not "wow" technologies, and dealers need to start offering smaller vehicles with premium equipment lists. What's a solution? Obviously this problem also lies with dealers and consumer mindsets, the desires always to cut corners on our already expensive cars, and I think it's fine that we should have to pay more for options like Virtual Cockpit, or Alcantara trim. But I think we need to stop compromising on safety technology. This is to me, non-negotiable at this point. In other countries across the world, many marques have begun offering these features as standard. Hold on, you might say, why does it matter so much? I don't need this stuff, I drive fine. So in the eight years I've been driving my beloved Mondeo, I've used Adaptive Cruise nearly every journey... But I've had the emergency brake intervention trigger only twice. I was sleepy. You will never be driving in 100% perfect condition every day of your life. We already say we've got some of the worst drivers, the most kiasu, the most impolite, and my Mondeo isn't shy about warning me that I'm less than two seconds of following distance to the car in front (I have sensitivity on high for pedestrian detection), but what's to say we can't reduce the number of accidents with these features? Side anecdote, I'm still baffled by how seven cars can have a chain collision in the middle of the highway, an empty highway during Circuit Breaker, in broad, clear daylight. What kind of absurd scenario causes that? Yes, it'll make the cars more expensive, as these aren't without a cost, but can you imagine how much less we'd lose in time and money if we had virtually zero accidents across our roads? Less congestion, less time wasted, less fuel burnt in traffic jams, no need to waste TP resources dispatching to manage the scene, less money spent on EMAS recovery. Less money lost on people idling in a jam. So I propose that there be a discount incentive for safety technology equipment on cars. Say, a $500 incentive for forward collision detection. $500 off for Blind Spot warning. $250 off for adaptive headlights. $250 off for seatbelt airbags (my Mondeo didn't come with them, sadly) Something like that. I also think, really, we should consider making it possible to fine someone extra if they were involved in an accident while driving with that feature disabled (if equipped, obviously), or at least if I were an insurance officer I would probably increase the person's excess for that incident. The legislation has long been discouraging advanced technologies and our cars have been routinely some of the worst equipped in the world, while the COE system somehow results in some of the most inefficient powerplants reaching us. You might have noticed I didn't specify a discount on ARF, which has long been the typical means of providing incentives, notably through the EV early adopters incentive and the CEVS rebate. That's because anyone who knows ARF knows that ARF is what determines your PARF rebate, more commonly known as scrap value. The PARF rebate depreciates linearly from 100% ARF to 50% over the ten years of the car's original COE, which means that every $1,000 discount on ARF is really a $500 loss to your PARF rebate. Which is why cars, particularly EVs, that have high CEVS rebates, have spectacularly poor depreciation rates. (See, for example, SGCM's BMW iX3 vs X3 faceoff) Incentives need to be serious, and to be really serious about being an incentive they need to not take from the consumer's back pocket. I also suggest we start incentivizing real hybrids, and plug-in hybrids. In a meaningful way. Tons of dealers have started offering mild hybrids, which just include a small booster battery that helps start from a standstill. These do not confer any real efficiency benefit overall. Plug-in Hybrids are expensive now, but deserve to have more penetration. I asked many a dealer, why are you not offering PHEVs? The answer? Nobody wants them. My response; nobody I've asked knows they exist. Dear dealers, you make the markets, not the consumers, in Singapore. Do us better. I suddenly got really sleepy at this point, so I'll maybe elaborate in another post. All the essential info's above. But what else do I think I want to throw in? The diesel duty raise. That was dumb - commercial vehicles are the most frequent user of diesel, and increasing their cost to run has undoubtedly lead to delivery and freight costs rising and reaching the consumer. Rental companies propping up COEs with their indifference to high COE prices? Supposedly doesn't happen, but I doubt that. Almost definitely has to be happening, and then those cheap grade low spec cars get dumped on the preowned market exacerbating the problems I described. Not to mention that expensive COEs lead to more use of rental vehicles, which the rental companies can price up to recover their costs...? Makes for a self-sustaining cycle. Anyway, as promised, tl;dr; COE current system of displacement/power is dumb (and was dumb in 1990), change classification system to be based on length. Discount COE for more than 5 seats, penalty for less than 5 seats Revise ARF/add incentives for safety technology to encourage safer cars Revise incentives to encourage more efficient gasoline cars, not just EVs, because EVs are still not ready
  22. Mersaylee brakes stronk 💪 can hold back a Mazda left in D
  23. The spec for the PHEV look mouth watering. Dimensions 4,745 mm (L) 1,890 mm (W) 1,680 mm (H) 2,870 mm (WB) Engine 2.5L e-SkyActiv-G IL4 PHEV (323HP, 500Nm, 5.8 sec, 200Kmh) 3.0L e-SkyActiv-X IL6 mild hybrid 3.3L e-SkyActiv-D IL6 mild hybrid
  24. The sun hangs overhead, casting a brilliant glow on the crisp winter air, while the roads encircling me paint a breathtaking picture. As I approach a tightening curve, the vibrant surroundings transform from a motion-blurred spectacle to crystal clear clarity as I dig into the brake pedal and rapidly hit the downshift paddle. With the six-piston calipers up front biting down hard, Fourth, third, and second, arrive — as the resonating echoes of the exhaust reverberate through the mountainous terrain with thunderous claps. There's little time to savour the moment though as I unwind the steering wheel and ease into the throttle to once again unleash 453 horses as the hairpin opens up into a long sweeping curve revealing the magnificent sight of a snow-capped Mt Fuji in the distance. It is a splendid sight and a majestic beauty that belies the awesome power lying deep within. But with the cacophony of slightly more minute explosions bursting out the rear pipes of my exhaust, my focus sharpens again as I dive into the next bend. This is Hakone, Japan, and I'm behind the wheel of a BMW M2. But let's not get ahead of ourselves. The Backstory It's 1998, and a much younger and more impressionable version of myself was about to embark on his first-ever trip to Japan—a genuine adventure beyond the borders of Singapore. Despite a somewhat rushed itinerary covering the essentials of Kansai and Tokyo, the experience was transformative. As a fervent automotive enthusiast engrossed in games like Gran Turismo, this initial visit during the golden era of JDM sportscars left an indelible mark on my life. Even in the outskirts, I encountered a multitude of Skylines, RX7s, Fairladys, numerous 180SXs and Silvias, and the occasional NSX. A serendipitous sighting of an Autech 4-door GTR added a touch of automotive rarity to the experience. It was also during this visit that, albeit from the confines of a minibus, I first laid eyes on the roads of Hakone, driven by my Japanese teacher, who turned out to be a fan of the Touge as well in his S130 Fairlady! As I stood on the edge of the rest stop nonchalant to the slight drizzle of rain lightly misting down my jacket I caught sight of Hakone's meandering roads, A delicate fog descended upon the asphalt like a spectral veil. Amid the occasional crackle of branches and the haunting wind, it seemed as though time had momentarily paused, if only for a few milliseconds. At that moment, I made a silent promise to myself – one day, I will be back to drive these roads. As we all know, time has a way of altering plans. Despite visiting Japan almost every year for nearly two decades, I never managed to return to Hakone, at least not in the manner I initially envisioned (I'm pretty sure Pirate ships don't count). Until now. Interestingly, while I never did make it back to drive in Japan, my love for cars never waned and through years of hard work or perhaps just sheer luck, I've had the pleasure of driving some amazing BMWs in a multitude of beautiful locations. It was during one of these overseas assignments that I had the opportunity to meet a representative from BMW Group Japan. I think you can see where this is going. Enter BMW Group Japan. Enter the Hakone Turnpike. As I navigated through Tokyo's congested roads en route towards destiny, the G87 M2, generously entrusted to me by BMW Group Japan, effortlessly devoured the motorway miles (or kilometers). Despite certain critiques about the new M2's more mature handling compared to its predecessor, the heightened stability and improved ride quality derived from its M3/M4 chassis contributed significantly to the overall enjoyment of the commute. It didn't take very long before the signs towards one of Japan's most legendary and iconic roads loomed into view. Extending just over 15 kilometers with an elevation climb of over 1,000 meters, the Hakone Turnpike was inaugurated in 1969 as a toll road (with a mostly 50km/h speed limit) linking Odawara to Yugawara. Over the years, it underwent a couple of name alterations, featuring brand sponsorships from Toyo Tires and Mazda. Presently, the toll road is under the ownership of the Hakone Turnpike subsidiary of the Central Nippon Expressway Company, going by the name Anest Iwata Turnpike. With my entry toll paid, it was time to fulfill a childhood dream. [/img] So delightful is the M2's torque, so accessible is its power, and so surefooted, competent, and confidence-inspiring is the handling that I find myself pushing harder and harder as the altitude rises. Relentlessly encouraging me to explore its limits with its Turbocharged S58's heartbeat playfully dancing up and down the digital tachometer with each flick of my wrists. Powering down a long sweeping bend, the M2 leans just enough to communicate what's happening, and as I keep the throttle down, I feel the rear end dig into the ground as the M2's computerized active differentials perform their mathematical wizardry to provide the best possible power delivery. [/img] With the Turnpike's sweeping curves that hug the hillsides and stretches of tarmac that punch through dense forest and trees before opening up into a beautifully scenic bridge for you to power through. This combination of road and machine provided an almost a dream-like driving experience, offering a smooth, intoxicating journey so beautifully presented and so enjoyable to sample that I catch myself on multiple occasions wishing it never ends. Skylines and skylines. As I summit the Turnpike, my day has only just begun. Pulling into the Anest rest stop, my eyes catch a glimpse of a beautiful Hakosuka Skyline. Judging by its battle scars, it seems to be in a similar Touge-hunting mood. Sporting its dings, scratches, dirt, and chips with pride, this vintage Nissan hotrod looks far from a garage queen. Despite the GT-X insignia in the cabin, implying its likely modest beginnings, the fat, worn tires, wheels coated with brake dust, exhaust-stained rear panels, and fully stripped-out, caged interior signal a build that transcends mere aesthetics. Could that S20 window decal offer a glimpse of what truly hides beneath its bonnet? It seems I wasn't the only one captivated by the allure of the Hakosuka Skyline, as its distinctive features, battle scars, and unique modifications garnered attention and admiration from fellow travelers at the Anest rest stop. With lunch devoured, it was time to ignite the M2 for the picturesque journey along the Tsubaki Line and Izu Skyline Touge roads. These winding roads, characterized by narrower paths, intricate bends, and blind corners, occasionally unveil expansive and breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji. As I unleash the power of the S58 once more, let's circle back to our introduction as I power down a short straightaway into a blind crest before dabbing on the brakes to rein in the charging Bavarian, Orbital's Halycon On and On playing in the background as the M2 flawlessly and joyously absorbs every moment of the drive, never missing a beat. Taking a moment at a secluded but very picturesque side road to also rein in my adrenaline, I found myself pondering the significance of the color red. Beyond its visual allure, this scarlet hue embodies essences of passion, joy, happiness, celebration, and vitality. Characteristics that resonated perfectly with how it has felt powering this rouge beauty through the dynamic landscapes of Hakone. The Perfect Partner. With traffic ahead, I settled into the cruise along the West Izu Skyline, the M2 gracefully navigating the winding roads leading to the coastal town of Numazu, Shizuoka. The scenery unfolds in a captivating display of nature's beauty, enhancing my sense of awe and exhilaration. The memories of the exuberant morning drive lingered, merging seamlessly with the present moment. It was sheer bliss and the M2 was the perfect partner to enjoy it with. Until I saw it, as the lumbering bus ahead of me pulled off, I caught sight of the unmistakable rear end of a G82 M4. Without hesitation, I punched the M2 button, prompting a burst of acceleration as I eagerly closed in on the M4 whose driver, likely sensing the impending arrival of his car's baby sibling, responded by unleashing the power of the M4, it was go time. It must have been quite the spectacle as we gracefully danced along the winding roads of Nishi-Izu Skyline, the M4 leading while I kept pace. Two of Munich's finest machines playfully carving up and down the mountains in unison, with the M4 occasionally surging into the distance, aided by a driver much more acquainted with these roads. As the M4 pulled away into the distance as I hooked a left into another narrow Touge road leading towards Numazu, it felt like a beautiful moment that perfectly encapsulated the phrase "Freude Am Fahren" had just unfolded. Numazu, Toronto, and Mount Fuji. Nestled along the picturesque Shizuoka coastline and with roots dating back to ancient times, Numazu has evolved into a modern town while retaining its historical essence. Known for its tranquil atmosphere, coastal charm, seafood offerings, and local markets, This scenic coastal town offers a mix of coastal simplicity and natural beauty ideal for a noteworthy stop on any road journey. Me? I only had time to stop for a photo. But what a view! As the sun cast its brilliance on the G87's Toronto Red body, I marveled at the fresh aesthetic perspective it offered compared to the Zandvoort Blue example I drove in Singapore. While the M2's signature baby blue shade may attract attention, it doesn't handle reflections, depth, and shadows as effectively as this crimson beauty. Complemented by the 930M Bicolour wheels, the new M2's more daring and assertive design language truly came to life, especially with Mt. Fuji in the background, creating a truly breathtaking sight. Chasing the sun, chasing a dream. With this picturesque scene etched in my memory, the next leg of my journey led me along the coastal roads of Numazu, through the city of Mishima towards my next Touge. The city's traffic slowed my progress considerably, and the sunlight was slowly but surely subsiding by the time I reached the Ashinoko Skyline. Linking National Route 1 near Hakone Pass to Kojiri on the northern shores of Lake Ashi, the Ashinoko Skyline is a picturesque toll road winding along the border of Kanagawa and Shizuoka prefectures on the western side of Hakone. Tracing the western ridge of the Hakone mountains, it offers vistas of Lake Ashi, Mt. Fuji, Mishima city, Numazu city, Suruga Bay, and the Izu Peninsula. As I pulled into a viewpoint with the sun setting, words almost failed to capture the awe-inspiring scene unfolding before me. It was truly a spectacular sight. With my dream now fulfilled, I couldn't help but feel a surge of emotion. The beauty of the moment was overwhelming, and I couldn't have asked for a more perfect day. Thank you BMW Group Japan, it was the best drive I've ever had and the G87 M2 will forever remain special. It was now time to have dinner and return to Tokyo. Thank you for reading.
  25. Don't change the Wheel,if you don't mind a bit Noisy(Mazda 6 anyway not a quiet Car),go for Bridgestone Potenza Sport Tyres..you will enjoy the Mazda 6's Handling.
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