Q
What are the safety features of the Perodua Nexis?
According to Perodua's official service manual for the Axia, the main engine oil change interval for this model is typically every 10,000 kilometers or 6 months, whichever comes first. This guideline is tailored to Malaysia's common driving conditions and climate. If your Axia spends a lot of time operating under severe conditions—think constant high temperatures, dusty environments, or lots of short trips—you'll want to bump that up to every 5,000 kilometers to keep that engine properly lubricated.
It's crucial to use Perodua-approved oil, like SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 viscosity grades, to maximize engine longevity. And don't sleep on regular checks: keeping an eye on both oil level and condition is a key part of day-to-day maintenance. For Malaysian owners, beyond sticking to the official schedule, there are telltale signs to watch for. If the oil turns really dark or feels less viscous, or if you notice unusual engine noises, it might be time for an early change. Whatever you do, don't stretch the oil change interval too far—you could end up compromising engine performance.
It's worth noting that similar models in this segment, like the Proton Saga, follow comparable service intervals. At the end of the day, developing a habit of regular maintenance is the best way to keep your ride running in top shape.
Q
Is Proton Persona a Good Car? Learn the Pros and Cons Here
The Proton Persona has its advantages and disadvantages. In terms of advantages, it comes with an affordable price. For example, the 2023 Proton Persona 1.6 Standard CVT is priced at RM 47,800, making it suitable for consumers with a limited budget. The vehicle comes with a 5 - year or 150,000 - kilometer warranty, providing long - term quality assurance. It is equipped with a relatively rich set of safety features. ABS and vehicle stability control are standard across the board, and some versions come with six airbags. In terms of interior space, with a wheelbase of 2,555 mm, the rear - seat space can generally meet daily needs. The 510 - liter trunk volume can satisfy the loading requirements for trips.
However, there are also some drawbacks. Some versions are equipped with drum rear brakes, which are inferior to disc brakes in terms of braking performance and heat dissipation. The manual seat adjustment in some models is not very user - friendly for those who prefer the convenience of electric adjustment. Its fuel consumption is average. For instance, the official combined fuel consumption of the 2023 Proton Persona 1.6 Premium CVT reaches 8.1 L/100 km. Overall, if you have a limited budget, value safety features and space, and don't particularly pursue high performance and low fuel consumption, the Proton Persona is a viable option to consider.
Q
When did they stop making the Ferrari 488?
The production of the Ferrari 488 officially ended in 2019, and it was then succeeded by the Ferrari F8 Tributo, which serves as the new - generation model in the brand's mid - engine V8 sports car series. The 488 made its debut in 2015, equipped with a 3.9 - liter twin - turbocharged V8 engine with a maximum power of 670 horsepower. It became one of the top - performing models in its class at that time and was deeply loved by car enthusiasts in Malaysia.
Its successor, the F8 Tributo, is further optimized in terms of power and aerodynamics. The maximum power has been increased to 720 horsepower, while retaining the classic design elements of the 488. For Malaysian consumers, the 488 is still highly sought after in the second - hand market, especially for its excellent driving experience and the iconic Ferrari engine sound. The launch of the F8 Tributo provides more options for car enthusiasts who pursue the latest technology.
Both the 488 and the F8 Tributo reflect Ferrari's outstanding pursuit of performance and craftsmanship, meeting the needs of Malaysian high - performance car enthusiasts.
Q
Is it okay to charge an i4 to 100 every time?
When it comes to whether you should charge your BMW i4 to 100% every time, from a battery health standpoint, it's advisable to avoid frequent full charges in daily use, especially when using fast charging. Keeping the battery at 100% for extended periods can accelerate lithium battery degradation. The ideal approach is to maintain a charge level between 80% and 90% for your daily commute, and only fully charge it before long trips to maximize range.
For Malaysian users, the impact of the hot climate on battery life requires extra attention. When charging in high-temperature conditions, it's recommended to choose a shaded area and avoid direct sunlight. Additionally, utilize the vehicle's preset charging limit function (if available) to protect the battery.
It's worth noting that modern EV battery management systems are quite intelligent. Even when it shows 100% charge, the system typically reserves a buffer space. However, actively controlling your charging habits can still extend battery lifespan. If you frequently need to drive long distances, regular full charges are acceptable, but if you mainly use the car for short urban trips, keeping a moderate charge level is more battery-friendly.
Q
Does the 2018 Passat have DSG?
The 2018 Volkswagen Passat did come with the DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) dual-clutch transmission in the Malaysian market. It's that advanced gearbox tech VW uses a lot, known for quick shifts and solid fuel efficiency. Now, the exact setup could vary depending on the trim and engine—like the 1.8 TSI or 2.0 TSI usually paired with a 7-speed or 6-speed DSG. How DSG works is it uses two clutches: one handles the odd gears, the other the even ones. That means power delivery feels smooth, especially when you're accelerating, which really steps up the driving experience.
For Malaysian drivers, VW did tweak the DSG to hold up better in our tropical heat, but keeping up with regular maintenance—like changing the gearbox oil on schedule—is still a must. Heads up though: some base models might have stuck with a conventional automatic, so it's smart to check the exact specs through official channels before you buy. Also, DSG has been around since 2003 and gone through plenty of updates. The version in the 2018 Passat is pretty refined by then, striking a good balance between performance and dependability, which makes it a solid fit for Malaysia's mix of road conditions.
Q
Which car has the strongest engine?
Among the currently available models, the 1.5T four-cylinder turbocharged engine (148 hp/226 Nm from the factory) equipped in the Proton X50 is a choice with relatively outstanding power parameters. Its modification potential can reach 195 hp/320 Nm, and the 0-100km/h acceleration can be improved to 7.46 seconds. When considering historical models, the Proton Putra was once equipped with the Mitsubishi 4G93P 1.8L naturally aspirated engine (103 kW/164 Nm). Combined with its lightweight body of 1007 kg, it achieved a top speed of 208 km/h and was once a local performance benchmark. The 2.8T diesel engine currently offered in the Toyota Hilux pickup truck (maximum power not explicitly mentioned but with strong torque) demonstrates excellent power performance in load-carrying and off-road scenarios. It is worth noting that engine performance needs to be comprehensively evaluated based on power output, torque curve, transmission efficiency, and actual driving experience. Different vehicle positioning (such as family SUVs, performance coupes, or commercial pickups) also has varying power requirements, so it is recommended to evaluate according to specific usage purposes.
Q
What does 4 * 2 mean in cars?
In automotive terminology, 4×2 refers to a vehicle's drive type, where the "4" stands for four wheels and the "2" means two of those wheels are driven. This setup is commonly called rear-wheel drive (RWD) or front-wheel drive (FWD), depending on which wheels are powered. Rear-wheel drive is typical in performance-focused cars or commercial vehicles because it offers better power distribution and traction, especially when hauling loads or climbing hills. Front-wheel drive, on the other hand, is more common in economy cars—its simpler design and space-saving layout boost fuel efficiency and make daily driving more convenient.
By comparison, 4×4 (four-wheel drive) is better for tough terrain like mud or slippery roads, but 4×2 is totally sufficient for regular roads and city driving, plus it’s cheaper to maintain. When choosing a drive type, think about how you’ll really use the vehicle. If you mostly commute in the city, 4×2 is more than enough. But if you frequently tackle rough terrain, you might want to consider a 4×4 model. Also, the drive type affects fuel economy and handling—front-wheel drive cars steer more nimbly, while rear-wheel drive is better for drivers who want a more engaging, fun-to-drive experience.
Q
What are the big 3 car manufacturers?
The three major manufacturers in the Malaysian automotive market include local brands Proton and Perodua, as well as the Japanese brand Toyota. As a representative of the national automotive industry, Proton has significantly enhanced its technical capabilities through cooperation with Geely Holding. Its product lineup covers sedans, SUVs, and MPVs, primarily targeting the mid-to-large family vehicle segment. Perodua, leveraging technical collaboration with Japan's Daihatsu Motor, specializes in economical compact cars. Its best-selling models such as Myvi and Alza dominate the market with their cost-effectiveness and fuel efficiency, consistently maintaining top positions in sales rankings. Toyota meets market demand through localized production, with its IMV series and passenger vehicles achieving an annual production volume of approximately 60,000 to 80,000 units. While not engaged in exports, it holds a significant share among locally assembled foreign brands. These three manufacturers collectively form the core of Malaysia's automotive industry, with domestic brands accounting for about 70% of total production. Foreign brands like Toyota compete through localization strategies, creating an industrial landscape characterized by domestic demand dominance and diversified coexistence.
Q
Should you polish or wax your car first?
In car beauty and maintenance, the correct sequence should be polishing first and then waxing. The main function of polishing is to remove the oxide layer, fine scratches, and stubborn stains from the car's paint surface, restoring its smoothness and creating a better foundation for subsequent wax adhesion. Polishing requires professional abrasives used with a polishing machine or manual operation. Products with varying cutting strengths should be selected based on the paint condition. During operation, maintain consistent pressure and avoid generating excessive heat that could damage the paint. After polishing, thoroughly clean all residues from the paint surface and ensure it is dust-free before waxing. For wax application, use high-quality natural carnauba wax or synthetic polymer wax, applying a thin layer in circular motions. Once the wax hazes, immediately buff it in straight lines using a microfiber cloth. Note that excessive polishing will diminish the clear coat thickness—professional polishing is generally recommended no more than twice annually, while waxing can be maintained every 2-3 months. New vehicles don't require polishing within the first six months but can use pure protective wax without abrasives. When selecting wax, metallic paint vehicles benefit from wax containing UV absorbers, while dark-colored paints may use gloss-enhancing wax for better visual results.
Q
What oil to avoid?
When selecting engine oil, avoid using low-quality products or oils with incorrect viscosity grades that do not comply with the vehicle manufacturer's recommended standards. This particularly applies to oils with API ratings below the manual's requirements (such as using below SL-grade oil for older vehicles or non-SP-grade oil for turbocharged cars), as well as SAE viscosity grades unsuitable for climatic conditions (for instance, using 0W-series oil with excessive low-temperature fluidity in tropical regions or 5W-20 oil with inadequate high-temperature viscosity in cold climates). Special attention must be given to China VI-compliant vehicles, which require low-ash SP-grade or ACEA C-series oils to prevent particulate filter clogging from high ash content. Additionally, diesel and gasoline engine oils must not be mixed unless explicitly labeled as universal (e.g., SP/CF). While fully synthetic oils from brands like Petronas offer reliable performance, they must precisely match the vehicle's specifications. For example, 5W-30 viscosity suits most modern gasoline engines, whereas high-mileage vehicles may need 5W-40 for enhanced sealing.