Explore every episode of the podcast Cruise Control

Cruise Control returns once again with news from the automotive world, a discussion on the state of the industry at the moment, and a car review! We start the show by talking about Stellantis & Leapmotor’s RM24 million investment to manufacture their EVs in Gurun, Kedah. Will this be a game changer for the Malaysian automotive industry, especially to the region? We also discuss Tesla’s sales dropping in California, as well as Volvo EX90 being voted the World’s Best Luxury Car by World Car Awards. In our discussion segment, Daniel gives his thoughts on why the sales of EV are not really picking up despite the proliferation of EVs from different manufacturers, at very competitive prices. Hint - the answer is in the statement. And later on the show, Daniel gives a glowing review of Xpeng X9, a luxury MPV that’s disrupting the market and redefining what it means to be driven in comfort. Tune in to hear his thoughts! Photo credit: dsf.my

We have a flurry of new car launches this week, and so our news segment is extended to accommodate them! Jetour marked their official launch in the country in the most Dashing way possible, announcing two variants of this petrol-powered SUV that’s sure to rock the market. MG unveiled their new SUV as well, the MGS5, at a very competitive price. Not wanting to be left behind, Volvo also released their flagship EV SUV here, the EX90. On the higher end of the spectrum, Mazda released the 35th Anniversary Edition of their iconic roadster, the MX5, while Porsche also celebrated their 15th anniversary in the country by releasing special variants of their iconic 911 - Carrera and Carrera 4 GTS Hybrid. We summarise all these, and more! Later, Daniel raves about MG’s new roadster, the MG Cyberster. With its super sporty look, modern interior and fast performance, will this be the car that will finally change Daniel’s mind on EV? Tune in to find out! Photo credit: dsf.my

Get ready for another episode of Cruise Control as we dive into the latest automotive news! Discover how a 14.2% electricity tariff increase in Malaysia, starting July 2025, could change the EV game — will charging your electric car become more expensive? Plus, PUSPAKOM Wangsa Maju is closing its doors! How will this affect vehicle inspections in Selangor and Kuala Lumpur? Also, will Zeekr's advanced battery tech power up Proton cars, and can Volkswagen deliver a budget-friendly EV by 2027? Tune in as our crew finds out!   With Perodua flush with cash reserves and needing an electric car platform, Nissan’s successful LEAF model and e-POWER technology could be just what they need to expand their offerings in Southeast Asia’s growing hybrid and electric market. Join Ali, Richard and Daniel as they ponder whether Perodua should consider acquiring Nissan.   And when it comes to a car review, this week we're featuring the Dongfeng ‘Nammi’, also known as BOX in Malaysia—a compact electric hatchback competing with models like BYD Dolphin and Ora Good Cat. Be sure to tune in as we discuss its performance metrics and why it might be worth considering before Perodua launches its own electric offering!   Photo Credit: dsf.my

Cruise Control returns on our first episode in 2023 promising the latest in local launches; a battle between two cars from the same company; and a drive review of an electric car, picking up swiftly from where we left off. On the local front, Volvo unveiled their latest all electric vehicle as the sporty C40 Recharge arrives to satiate customers looking for a coupe type SUV. Honda recently linked up with Bomba in their efforts to prepare rescue personnel in handling road accidents involving their hybrid vehicles. We also check in on Proton's foray into South Africa as more export units of the X50 & X70 SUVs make their way across the continent.  Next, we evaluate the options of the Ford Mustang, in case you're in the market for one, pitting the 5 litre V8 Mustang against the newly minted Mustang Mach E. And we round it off with Daniel's impressions on Mazda's latest offering in the compact EV segment, as he drove around in the eco-friendly MX-30.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week our petrolheads sift through the latest launches in the local market, discuss a little bit about Proton's upward bounce in the last couple of years, and round off with a guide to purchasing a used luxury sedan that you can drive home for below RM70k. Hot off the press, Mercedes-Benz unveils their fourth EQ car this year with the arrival of the imported edition of the EQE 350+, completing their all electric fleet with a beautiful sports sedan. Also fresh in the market is Volvo's all electric C40, which is now available for orders at your local Volvo dealership. Elsewhere, Triumph Motorcycles have also signed on a new distributorship deal promising an updated line of motorbikes in their catalogue for 2023. We also discuss the resurgence of Proton since Geely took over, what they've done to their fleet and how their fortunes have turned since the introduction of the X70 SUV. We round off the show with a guide to purchasing a used luxury sedan, pitting together the 2012 Audi A8L against the more prestigious Jaguar XJ-L. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this edition of Cruise Control, our trio of petrolheads discuss the latest launches in the local market, topped with a drive review of a turbo-diesel powered seven seater.  After days of camping out in front of the Kia manufacturing plant in Kulim, Kedah; we can now confirm that the CKD version of the new Kia Sorento will hit our markets soon with prices to be confirmed at the launch. Staying up north in Juru, Penang; Audi Malaysia have also posted information on the impending arrival of Audi's sleek all-electric E-Tron GT, while their more prestigious distant relative Porsche are also taking bookings for its race-ready Cayman 718 GT4 RS. We end with Daniel's impression of the Mazda CX-8 Skyactiv-G Turbo, which is the same SUV from 2019 that's been recently improved and now fitted with a 2.5 litre turbo engine; perfect for the family. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Cruise Control our petrolheads go through some interesting headlines in the automotive world, from Malaysia's PM10's ride to Mitsubishi's exclusive Sportline bodykit. First we compare and contrast the two variants of the Ora Good Cat available in our local market, we also keep tabs on the sixth generation Nissan Serena recently launched in Japan, as well as the all electric Genesis GV70. In the region, Toyota recently unveiled a new and improved version of their popular seven-seater, as the Innova Zenix makes its entry to the Indonesian market. We look forward to its introduction to our local market by getting a closer look at its impressive features. Finally, Daniel takes a one-off iteration of the Mitsubishi Xpander for a spin. The Xpander Sportline Special Edition, as the name suggests, comes with a signature bodykit, recalling the glory days of their Ralliart editions of the past. Listen to believe! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Cruise Control our petrolheads preview the impending arrival of Honda's next sedan rock the C segment, as they unveiled the new Civic e:Hev. Globally, Toyota's early model with a hybrid engine makes a comeback, a fifth generation Toyota Prius returns to the market with an updated look and upgraded features all around. We also hear that Subaru have also jumped on the electrified bandwagon, as they just launched a new crossover to replace the popular XV, called the Subaru Solterra. As the Malaysian automotive market welcomes more car makers with electrified technology, we look ahead to three Chinese companies with full electric options as we compare and contrast Chery's Omoda 5, BYD's Atto 3 and the quirky Ora Good Cat, all of which will make its entry to Malaysia in the near future. We round off the show with Daniel's tale of getting stuck in a parking lot trying to navigate the upsized Ford Ranger Raptor Next-Gen, which despite its sheer size, proved to be the most accomplished option in the pick up truck segment. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Cruise Control, the petrolheads sift through the biggest headlines in the automotive world before cruising the city in an all-electric luxury sedan. Top news items include French car makers Renault, who have partnered up with Geely to build electric, hybrid and ICE powertrains as they both strive to reduce emissions for their respective brands. Locally, Ford announced the arrival of a base level Ranger XL with a manual transmission; while Volvo are already taking orders for their 2023 model of the XC40 Recharge. We also discuss our readiness for autonomous driving, weighing up the pros and cons of radar-assisted driving especially in countries around South East Asia. We round it off with Daniel's captivating impression of the uber-luxurious Mercedes-Benz EQS 450+. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this edition of Cruise Control, our petrol heads take you through some of the latest launches in the local automotive market, complete with a test drive of an electric car that could work for city dwellers. On the local front, Subaru announced the new and improved WRX Sportswagon, bringing back a design that's been overlooked especially with the popularity of compact crossovers worldwide. Speaking of crossovers, it looks like Suzuki might also be tempted to jump in the crowded segment by offering the S-Cross, reintroduced with a full hybrid engine and a right-hand drive to boot. In a battle between two Perodua seven-seaters, we compare and contrast the slightly dated Aruz versus the highly popular Alza! Both have similar specs, but what makes one SUV trump out the other? And we round it off with Daniel's first impressions behind the wheels of the electric Ora Good Cat 500 Ultra, set to arrive on our shores with a price point that might convince customers thinking about picking up an EV. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this edition of Cruise Control, our automotive trio get a sneak preview for a couple of Chinese brands, one of them of course being an electric car. As relentless rainfall continues towards the end of the year, we discuss the possibilities of recurring flash floods and how to keep your car from being inundated ahead of the Monsoon season. We round off the episode with Daniel's glowing review of China's new player in the crossover SUV segment, Chery's Tiggo 7 Pro. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Cruise Control, our automotive trio discuss badge snobbery; hassle-free access for reports on used & reconditioned cars from Malaysia, Japan and the UK; our next step in EV infrastructure; topped off with a buzzing test drive at the Sepang International Circuit.The much-awaited Toyota Veloz finally arrives in Malaysia, as the Japanese juggernauts unleash its premium crossover MPV to the local market this month. Bargain hunters also take note: you can now find out previous records of that used Japanese car you've been eyeing on the CTOS Digital's newly minted Vehicle Check website. We also look ahead to Proton's recent MOU with Gentari, signaling a step forward for the local EV roadmap. Finally, Daniel recounts his impression from behind the wheels of Honda's latest hybrid sedan, the Civic e:HEV RS. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Cruise Control, our petrolheads look ahead to some beautiful new launches in the local market, while also discussing Malaysia's roadmap to EV infrastructure, in light of the recent Budget 2023.We start with a preview of some fresh releases, namely a new generation Toyota Harrier, dropping in the market to beef up Toyota's upsurge in sales numbers. Big families and transport companies will also be pleased as Hyundai launches their spaceship-inspired 10 seater, the Staria; promising space and comfort in one big MPV. Mazda also has a new and improved CX 30, announcing their proponent in a busy compact segment with a sporty SUV. Next, we turn our attention to Malaysia's Budget 2023. Notwithstanding the fact that it will be re-tabled & tweaked following the dissolution of parliament & the upcoming general elections, we discuss the extension of the tax-free incentives for EVs and mull over its suitability to our local automotive industry. Finally, Daniel waxes lyrical on Kia's in-demand electric 'fastback', turning many heads as he drove around in the beautiful Kia EV6. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Get ready for another episode of Cruise Control as the crew discuss the latest happenings in the automotive world! This week’s headlines include China’s Car of the Year - the Chery Exlantix, which is making waves with its design and performance; they’ll also talk about how Jetour is set the rename the X50 in Malaysia, along with BYD's strategic move into Japan – what implications does this have for established players like Toyota? The crew will also delve into a study from the University of Birmingham that reveals how modern electric vehicles can now last as long, if not longer, than traditional internal combustion engine cars. Join us as we discover how newer battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are now matching or even surpassing the lifespan of petrol cars and what this means for sustainable transportation. And it’s time for a car review – featuring the Leapmotor C10! This new pure battery electric vehicle is now available in Malaysia without import taxes, and even positions itself as an alternative to the Tesla Model Y. Be sure to tune in as Daniel, Ali and Richard explore its performance metrics, spacious interior, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), as well as their experience during a test drive! Photo Credit: Leapmotor

This week on Cruise Control, our petrolheads discuss the latest in the automotive industry complete with an impressive test drive of an all-new compact SUV. Kicking off with a preview of Kia's flagship seven-seater, the Sorento, which will be locally assembled starting next year; we also look forward to Audi building up its fleet of the performance-based RS line, welcoming the sporty RS3 Sedan to their Malaysian catalog. China's BYD are also looking to introduce an electric MPV, its family-friendly BYD e6 set to land on our shores in the coming months. We also ponder the future of second-hand dealers Carsome, after the outfit confirmed a 10% retrenchment on their workforce; and finish off the show with a round trip to Kuala Terengganu on the new and improved Honda HR-V 1.5L Turbo V. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this week's edition of Cruise Control, our trio discuss the latest in the local and global automotive industry. We begin with two local launches, welcoming the beautiful Audi RS5 Sportback to our shores together with the gigantic Ford Everest, a luxurious seven-seater entering the Malaysian market with high hopes. We also look ahead to Perodua's Ativa Hybrid, which we think will be a hit with Malaysians looking to adopt electric technology. We round it off with Daniel's review of Audi's Q5 S-Line TFSI Quattro. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this week's edition of Cruise Control, our petrol heads cross into the realm of two-wheels as Daniel takes the locally made Treeletrik T70 electric motorcycle for a ride; not before discussing Japan's futuristic hovering bike, the Xturismo.Also in the news are Proton's foray into the South African market, the arrival of Land Rover Defender 90 in the local market as well as Honda Malaysia's precautionary recall for two of their popular models. We end with Daniel's tips on securing a pristine-conditioned Honda Jazz i-DSi from the year 2004. Image source: autoevolution.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Buckle up as our crew explores the latest automotive headlines here in the Malaysian car market! This week, BMW and MINI are stealing the spotlight with new launches that promise to redefine automotive excellence - from the sleek BMW 530i M Sport to the innovative BMW R 12 heritage roadster, we're unpacking every new detail that automotive enthusiasts need to know. We'll also be diving deep into the hybrid revolution sweeping across Malaysia -- ever wondered how Chinese manufacturers are challenging the traditional Japanese hybrid dominance? Daniel, Ali and Richard unpack the fascinating story of how brands like GREAT WALL MOTOR are transforming the automotive landscape, with the HAVAL H6 Hybrid leading the charge. And the highlight of today's show: a review of the Proton e.MAS 7! Daniel brings an exclusive first look at this game-changing electric vehicle that's been the talk of the town. With cutting-edge Geely technology and specs that are making other EV manufacturers nervous, tune in to discover why the Proton e.MAS 7 is more than just another electric car! Photo Credit: Proton e.MAS Cars 

The crew is back with the latest headlines in the automotive industry, from new launches such as the Honda Civic 2025 Facelift, the new Porsche Cayenne S E-Hybrid Coupe and Tesla's new Model Y. They also unpack the 911 Carrera S, which will be relaunched by Porsche - with all the information you should know! Then Ali, Richard, and Daniel discuss the recent revelation of a syndicate in Malaysia selling "protection stickers" to heavy vehicle operators. Starting at RM1,000, these stickers allow lorry drivers to bypass fines and inspections which signals corrupt enforcement officers to let them pass without scrutiny. Tune in for some insights into the implications of this widespread corruption, and the urgent need for reform. And here comes the highlight of the today's show: a review of the Haval H9 4x4 SUV! Daniel shares about his experience driving the spacious Haval H9 during strong winter conditions in Northern China, telling Richard, Ali -- and you about its new tech, along with his thoughts from his time behind the wheel.Photo Credit: dsf.my See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Revving up today's episode with some automotive news: UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd has launched a sporty sedan, an SUV ready for action, and the GR Yaris, a powerful hatchback with the same thrilling performance! Meanwhile, Volkswagen announced price adjustment for the Touareg R-Line, while Volvo Car Malaysia has also opened bookings for its locally assembled EX30. Also, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission has arrested an individual linked to a bribery probe involving heavy vehicle inspections at Puspakom, highlighting the MACC’s commitment to enforcing laws and maintaining the integrity of Malaysia’s public services. In our discussion segment, the focus is on the recent Volkswagen EV owners data leak we'll talk about how the sensitive data from 800,000 electric vehicles was stored on an unsecured Amazon cloud system, how the breach exposed GPS coordinates and battery levels and more. Finally, Ali, Richard and Daniel shine a light on the often-overlooked Honda Freed as part of their used car guide! Plus, you can find used models ready to accommodate your family adventures—whether it’s packing up for festive balik kampung trips or enjoying leisurely drives around town. Photo credit: CarFromJapan.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The biggest highlights from the 10th KL International Motoring Show 2024 (KLIMS 2024) keep on coming this week. Ali and Richard strap in as Daniel dives right into Malaysian market newcomer GWM and their 2025 lineup, which includes the Tank 400's bigger brother, the Tank 500, and the premium luxury WEY 80 MPV with a plug-in hybrid system that's set to take on Toyota's Alphard and Vellfire. Then, it's all about MG's Cyberster, an all-electric roadster that Daniel's already calling a "supercar" that's currently the most expensive car coming out of China, and what to expect with the Toyota Corolla Cross' shiny new 2025 facelift. Then, from highlights to no-shows: Who wasn't at KLIMS 2024? With some of the biggest names in the auto biz and their latest models and concepts missing from the lineup, Daniel ruminates what went wrong with what was expected to be the biggest KLIMS yet.  Photo credit: dsf.my See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fresh out of Malaysia's biggest auto show, the 10th Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show 2024 (KLIMS 2024), Daniel gives Richard and Ali a rundown of the biggest highlights: The all-new locally-assembled 2025 Kia Sportage SUV, Toyota's ninth-gen hybrid Camry with a bold hammerhead design, and the exciting tech behind the energy-efficient Nissan KICKS e-Power. In part two, two deep dives into First up, the new EV kid in town GAC unveiled the Aion ES EV sedan concept vehicle at KLIMS 2024. Tune in to find out why it was one of Daniel's most unexpected launches of the show. Then, a look at the Honda e:N1 EV making its exclusive Asian debut outside of Japan coming to Malaysia in 2025. And finally, it's the long-awaited Perodua eMO-II concept. Daniel dives into the sleek design and promising tech under the hood that drew KLIMS 2024's largest crowds, as the brand comes one step closer to its first EV. Photo credit: dsf.my See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The gang's back together again and they drive straight into the biggest headlines of the week. Ali, Richard, and Daniel give us a rundown of everything you need to know about the all-electric 2025 Porsche Macan that has finally launched, the new kid on the block- premium EV brand Deepal Cars- that brings together auto giants Changan, CATL, and Huawei, and Hyundai's new plant set to open in Malaysia. Then, Richard speaks with PETRONAS fuel technology specialist Chan Ming-Yau to take us behind the scenes for a look at the all-new PETRONAS Primax 97 with Pro-Race to find out how the fuel is unmatched when it comes to power, responsiveness, and efficiency. And finally, it's a two-wheeler review this week! Daniel waxes lyrical in his glowing review of the sporty Vespa GTV 300. Tune in to find out how the levelled up scooter ensures you'll stand out among the hustle and bustle of the city. Photo credit: dsf.my See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Ali, Richard, and Daniel take a look at Thailand's overstocked EV market, breaking down the domino effect of high incentives for EVs that first led to ICE factory closures and has now resulted in over 49,000 unsold EVs sitting idly in Thai dealerships. What does it mean for car buyers in Malaysia? Then, it's a used car review! The gang shows a little love for the much-forgotten 3rd-gen 2014 Nissan Sylphy. Find out why it's a secondhand car you need to check out for yourself! Image credit: Carsome See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's a show in three parts, as always, starting off with the biggest auto headlines: The BYD Sealion 7 is open for booking - find out how it stacks up against the rest of the BYD lineup, ZEEKR opens the doors to its brand new PJ showroom with the launch of X and the 009- Daniel also gives a rundown on their recent Lynk & Co. acquisition and what it means for the ZEEKR brand- and MG boosts their after-sales service with a brand new parts warehouse in the Klang Valley to serve both ICE and EV models. Then, a quick right turn to the discussion of the week: BYD Sealion 7 vs smart #3. Richard, Ali, and Daniel compare the two electric SUV coupés and break down the good, the bad, and everything under the hood. And finally, a car review! It's all about the Nissan Kicks e-Power crossover this week, the first of many e-Power vehicles about to hit Malaysian roads. Our resident motor expert has everything you need to know about the impressive new tech and gives us his thoughts from his time behind the wheel. Image credit: Nissan See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The automotive industry is not spared from the effects of tariffs, as Stellantis closed four of their plants in North America. Daniel Fernandez from dsf.my provides us with an update on the situation over there, as well as other news, including Volvo recalling thousands of their plug-in hybrid EVs in the US, as well as Xpeng’s fantastic performance in the market so far this year. In the second part of the show, Daniel provides us with a hot take - he thinks that car prices in Malaysia will go down this year, despite various uncertainties happening in the world at the moment. Why does he think so? Tune in to hear how he justifies it. Last but not least, we also review the 2025 Toyota Camry. As the sedan market continues to shrink, the Camry remains, making it one of the few remaining options for consumers looking for sedans in a sea full of SUVs. The 2025 version has a facelift, sporting a sleeker front that closely resembles the Toyota Crown. But with a slightly heftier price tag, will this car still be the go-to option for people looking for a reliable sedan? Daniel Fernandez shares his thoughts. Photo credit: dsf.my

It's a two-man show on Cruise Control this week. In headlines, Ali and Daniel get into Honda Malaysia's proactive product update that affects 36,000 units of the Civic, Civic Type R, and CR-V (Honda drivers, don't miss this!), and Tesla Malaysia's new EV switcher programme that's offering ICE drivers a cash incentive to switch to EVs. In the world of two-wheelers, they find out why the air is buzzing with news of Ducati's latest models- the Panigale V2 and the Streetfighter V2- two sports bikes already ahead of the game. In other news, orders are open for the locally-assembled, first electric Omoda, the Chery Omoda E5, and Chinese automaker Neta fizzles out as production halts and cuts salaries - tune in to find out why. Then, a speculative peek into Perodua's electric future! The announcement that Suzuki and Toyota will be strengthening their collab in the EV segment has Daniel asking: Will Perodua's first EV be a rebadged Suzuki e VITARA? It's more likely than you think. And in the final stretch, a car review! This week, Great Wall Motors' Haval H6 HEV, the next hybrid SUV coming to Malaysia. In a sea of SUVs in the market this year, how does the Haval H6 stand out from the crowd? Daniel breaks it down. Photo credit: dsf.my See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Your favourite automotive show is back, as always, with the biggest headlines in the auto world. Ali and Daniel look at the long-awaited Mazda CX-60 SUV finally making its debut in Malaysia in a few weeks and get a quick peek at the nitty gritty of the six new luxury Mercedes-Benz models rolled out this week. They also show two-wheelers a bit of love as they dive into the upgraded 2024 model of the Triumph Trident 660 and the powerful 2024 Aprilia RS 457 sports bike. Then, the EV discussion continues: Are European EV models moving back to petrol? Daniel and Ali break down why EV sales have slowed down significantly in Europe and how European carmakers, led by Porsche, are making the switch. And our final destination this week, it's a review of the Lexus RZ 450e. Lexus' first model developed as a battery electric vehicle from the outset, this premium electric car has the makings to be a segment favourite. Tune in to hear all about Daniel's test drive. Photo credit: dsf.my See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Revving things up with headlines from the auto world: we get a quick peek under the hood of Proton's first electric car, the eMas 7, as it opens for booking, then find out about commercial vehicle maker JAC Motors' T9 BEV pickup truck rolling onto Malaysian roads. On the global front, Richard, Ali, and Daniel get into the news of Volkswagen shutting down three factories in Germany and discover how Chinese automaker Roewe has set a Guinness World Record with the Roewe D7 DMH. Then, they ask: What's with all the huge number of EVs in the classifieds right now?! Daniel unpacks what could be behind the concerning phenomenon. And finally, the used car guide returns, this time with a 1995 Proton Perdana! Daniel gushes about the brand new auto in his life, a 1995 2.0i 5-speed manual Proton Perdana SEi, and how the Malaysian classic still holds its own. Photo credit: dsf.my See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's that time of the week - it's your favourite car show! This week, Ali, Richard, and Daniel start things off with some headlines. Starting off, a glimpse at the long-awaited Haval H6 HEV as it rolls into the market with some impressive features and even more impressive price tag, then the launch of BYD's 7-seater electric MPV, the BYD M6, Mitsubishi's all-new Triton pick-up truck tearing up both rural and city roads, and Leapmotor's C10 EV SUV making its Southeast Asian debut. Then, it's time to get into the Budget 2025 announcements for the automotive industry. Daniel breaks down the move towards targeted subsidies on RON95 petrol coming mid-2025, the cost coverage of motorcycle licenses for underprivileged youths, and the distribution of free motorcycle helmets. Does Belanjawan 2025 actually address Malaysia's most pressing automotive needs? Tune in to find out. And finally, a car review! Daniel reveals his thoughts from his time behind the wheel of the new XPENG G6 premium electric SUV. Can it stand up with the big boys in the European EV market? Get a rundown on the new kid on the EV block. Brought to you by Mah Sing. Reinvent Spaces. Enhance Life. Image credit: riko Keiro / Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Your favourite car show is back again, as always, with the biggest headlines in the automotive world. Ali, Richard, and Daniel break down the price war rages on in the sedan market with the launch of the MG5, Zeekr poised to change the game as they launch into the Malaysian market with two variations of the Zeekr X luxury compact SUV, and China hitting back on the tariff front in the EU in retaliation to the proposed duties set to be imposed on Chinese-made EVs.  Next up, no one puts diesel cars in the corner. The UK has seen the demand for new diesel cars growing faster than the demand for electric cars as the rest of the EU goes full EV or hybrid, with registrations of new diesel cars rising 17.1% in September alone. Daniel breaks it down. Then, Daniel drives us home with a car review of the Lexus LBX, aka the Lexus Breakthrough Crossover, aka the Baby Lexus. With the LBX set to replace the sporty UX, tune in to find out whether the crossover can break through the reputation of its popular predecessor. Photo credit: dsf.my See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's not Cruise Control without the biggest automotive headlines of the week! This week, Richard, Ali, and Daniel dive into the three models of the brand new next-gen Volvo EX30 and similar EVs on the market it's going up against, check out BMW's latest upgrade of the popular 5 series, the 520i M Sport, unveiled this week, and BYD's all-new all-electric M6 MPV coming to Malaysia that's already made waves in the region. Then, hybrid's back! It looks like hybrid cars are making a dramatic comeback around the world as countries aren't ready for fully-electric cars. With Toyota and Honda sticking to their hybrid guns amidst the EV wave, Daniel ponders: Were they on the right track all along? Tune in to find out. And the used car guide returns! This week, it's the BYD Dolphin. Just over a year after its debut on Malaysian roads, the award-winning car is popping up in the used car market. Daniel tells us why it's the best value electric car if you're looking to make that long-awaited EV switch. Photo credit: BYD See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's a Chinese automaker headline overload this week! Richard, Ali, and Daniel look at Jaecoo copping the Omoda name with the Omoda C9, AI chip maker Leapmotor launching the C10 on Malaysian roads, and ultra-fast charging with Zeekr's upgraded EV batteries that'll charge up vehicles in just 10.5 minutes. Then, it's time to address the elephant in the room, or rather, the abandoned car in the car park. Daniel unpacks the fast-growing prevalence of luxury cars being left unattended in public places (eg: shopping centre car parks, neighbourhood parks), the possible reasons behind it, and what we can do about it. Finally, from dusty cars to luxury personified, our car review this week is all about the Toyota Alphard 2.4 Turbo Luxury MPV. Having experienced all the bells and whistles of this fourth-generation Alphard as a passenger, Daniel breaks down why there's still no other car that comes close to the luxury MPV in comfort. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Getting into gear with automotive headlines, Richard, Ali, and Daniel dive into the fresh facelift of the reliable Mitsubishi XPANDER MPV, get a taste of Mercedes' 2025 GLC350e 4MATIC PHEV and discover the rest of their EV range, and peek at Honda Malaysia's special edition of the Honda City. Then, they ask: What exactly is a mild hybrid engine? Daniel takes us under the hood to reveal why MHEVs might be the practical solution you've been searching for to answer those electric car woes. And finally, Daniel tells us how he's been bitten by the Volvo EX30 bug. Find out how this hothatch is delivering on all fronts in this week's car review. Photo credit: dsf.my See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Cruise Control, Ali, Richard and Daniel are here to talk about recent news in the car world, starting off with Proton’s recent partnership with Geely and the start of CKD operations in Egypt. Then comes the recent news regarding EV number plates - from the new requirements for new EVs’ registration and the introduction of EV plates.  The recent introduction of the BYD SEAL Dynamic variant in Malaysia, which aims to compete with the Tesla Model 3 also pops up as a topic for our hosts, prompting a discussion on BYD's strategy to enhance its market presence in Malaysia. There are also updates regarding the BYD Atto 3 in terms of its specifications, design and features. Commemorating 31 years of Perodua, our hosts talk about the different Perodua models through history, and their experiences with these cars throughout the years, from the Perodua Rusa to the Perodua Myvi and more! They wrap it up with Volvo's XC90 and the EX90; tune in to find out more about the updated XC90 plug-in hybrid, market trends, design differences and details about its future launch! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week in automotive headlines, it's all about EVs. Ali and Daniel get into the shocking price cuts from Tesla, Chinese battery maker Zhuhai CosMX setting up shop in Kedah, rumours of Chinese automaker Changan about to make a splash in Malaysia, and the debut of the smart #5 and when we can expect to see them on the roads. With EVs still on the brain, they turn to the race towards a more electrified car market as China still seems to come out on top in EV sales ahead of the US and the EU as both markets have shown a decline as drivers switch to hybrids. Turns out, China's high EV numbers might be thanks to FCEVs, REVs, PHEVs, and BEVs being given the EV label. Ali and Daniel break this down. Then, a car review! For fans of the BMW X2, BMW has taken it up a notch with the iX2 XDrive30 - a mid-sized crossover that's larger than the iX1 but smaller than the iX3 (Hello, Goldilocks). Tune in to find out everything you need to know about the compact electric SUV. Photo credit: dsf.my See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The presence of online used car dealers that are approaching the industry with professionalism has triggered the traditional used car dealers to start getting their act together. They’ve started to, according to Daniel Fernandez, and this might swing the tide in their favour again, as online used car dealers are also beginning to struggle surviving in the industry. Daniel shares his thoughts on this in the second half of the show. In the news segment, both Vespa and Triumph announced new models of their motorcycles, while Denza is raring to continue their impact in the market, this time by announcing a new luxury SUV called the Denza N9. Last but not least, we also talk about Alfa Romeo’s impending return to the Malaysian market, and recommend listeners to check out a used Alfa Romeo Tonale Veloce if they want to sample the Italian brand’s quality and workmanship before their official arrival here. Photo credit: IZWAN IS / Shutterstock.com

Ali and Daniel get your favourite car show rolling this week with some news, with the Proton X70 getting a 2025 facelift already looking at some fierce competition in the form of the MG HS SUV hitting showrooms. On the EV front, find out how XPENG are taking on the market with the G6, all about the EQS SUV - Mercedes-Benz's luxurious yet powerful seven-seater, and how Chinese automaker Dongfeng is speeding into the Malaysian market with the Box. Then, Daniel calls on the powers that be to ensure Singaporean motorists with unpaid traffic summonses in Malaysia pay up! They unpack how the new Vehicle Entry Permit system coming into effect soon will help address the accumulated 35,011 outstanding traffic fines estimated to total around RM3.5 million. Finally, a car review! Plug-in hybrid tech has evolved, and the Mercedes C-Class 350e Plug-In Hybrid is the perfect example of why it's time to get rid of the hybrid woes of yesteryear. Daniel takes us behind the wheel and under the hood. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Chinese auto invasion hits Cruise Control this week as Ali, Richard, and Daniel get into the biggest headlines from Chinese automakers. This week, GAC is set to make a mark in the local market with its first CKD factory in Segambut, Chery Omoda 5 earns the Prestigious ASEAN NCAP 5-star rating, and- you heard it here first- the latest EV landing on our shores is the Zeekr X from the premium Chinese automaker. Then, an appeal from Cruise Control: Protect kids in your neighbourhood if you see them behind the wheel! They unpack the news of a 12-year-old who was charged this week after a video of him driving a car in Puchong went viral. Finally, they drive us home with a car review! This week, it's all about the Chery Omoda E5 Electric SUV. Tune in to find out why Daniel thinks that, if you're looking for an EV, the electric version of the popular Chery Omoda might be the one for you. Image credit: Chery See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Revving things up this week with some big news: Proton's long-awaited first electric vehicle has been announced - tune in to find out what we can expect once it launches. In other local and regional news, Daniel gives the lowdown on the X70, Proton's next big thing, gets into the rumours we've been hearing about a new Citroën SUV that's poised to make waves in the Malaysian market, and speculates why we might not see Audi's impressive new debuts, the A6 and the S6, on our roads. In part two, Ali, Richard, and Daniel unpack Toyota's ongoing safety scandal that has seen models of the Toyota Noah, Toyota Voxy, and Suzuki Landy being recalled and sales being halted in Japan. Malaysian drivers, this is an issue you don't want to ignore. And finally, mud-plugging fans, boy, do we have the tank for you! Daniel gives us a look behind the wheel of the GWM Tank 300 4x4 doing exactly what it was designed to do - going crazy both off-road and in the city. Image credit: CarExpert See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Richard, Ali, and Daniel get into some heavy hitters in local launches and regional headlines this week: Suzuki's exciting, new 5-door 4x4 version of the popular Jimny, the brand new price war-inducing Neta X EV out of Thailand, Kawasaki Motors venturing into hydrogen-powered motorbike engines in Japan and how long it'll be till we see them on our roads, Volvo sticking to producing plug-in hybrids and hybrid engines in a world moving into the EV game, and Indonesia's plan to roll out incentives for cars with hybrid engines. Then, a look at Thailand's overstocked EV market. Daniel breaks down the domino effect of high incentives for EVs that first led to ICE factory closures and has now resulted in over 49,000 unsold EVs sitting idly in Thai dealerships. What does it mean for car buyers in Malaysia? And of course, winding down with a used car review! The gang shows a little love for the much-forgotten 3rd-gen 2014 Nissan Sylphy. Find out why it's a secondhand car you need to check out for yourself! Image credit: Carsome See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It wouldn't be Cruise Control without some automotive news to rev things up. Daniel fills Richard and Ali in on Porsche's new Taycan-shaped EV, the Macan, and the J7 from Chery sub-brand Jaecoo making their debut on our streets. In regional news, tune in to find out which brand new releases we'll be seeing in Malaysia soon: the K4, Kia's fourth-gen compact sedan, or the ID. UNYX by Volkswagen that made a splash in China this week. In part two, the gang breaks down the reports that predict fewer than 20 major Chinese EV brands will survive the tariffs being applied on Chinese-made EV vehicles globally. Could this signal the end of the Chinese auto invasion? Then, they throw it back to that all-important first car. With many young first-time car buyers opting for the shiny, new car that eats up paychecks, they ask: What should your first car be? Take it from Daniel - it should be used, cheap, and with zero depreciation. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ali, Richard, and Daniel kick things into gear with the launches of the brand new models of the smart #3, and the new EV on the block (and in the Mini family), the Mini Countryman SE All4. In Thailand, Chinese EV automaker Wuling has entered the ASEAN market with the launch of the incredibly affordable Binguo. They also check out the latest Alfa Romeo to hit European roads, the Junior Veloce EV, that could hark their potential return to Malaysia. Then, they explore the question: "Are almost half of American EV owners switching back from Electric to ICE?" based on a recent survey that highlighted concerns among EV owners globally. The Cruise Control gang go behind the numbers and find out if this might be signalling a shift in the EV game. And to drive us home, Daniel gives us his review of the recently launched Chery Tiggo 7 Pro that's already populating Malaysian highways in droves. We find out why Chery might have the competition beat when it comes to product, quality, price, warranty, and a commitment that says they're here to stay. Photo credit: dsf.my See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In local headlines this week, Mercedes revealed the AMG C63 - a sports car made even more powerful with F1 technology. And from around the region, Kia's EV3 makes waves in South Korea as we anticipate its Malaysian launch, confirmation of the return of the Prelude from Honda, and it's finally official - the EU increase Chinese-made EVs with tariffs. Tune in to find out more! In part two, with news of the World Economic Forum ranking Malaysia number 21 globally in road quality out of 144 countries - the second best in Southeast Asia and ninth in Asia, Daniel gives his two cents and reminds us why we might want to take the ranking with a pinch of salt. Then, we cross over to the GAC GS3 EMZOOM 1.5T! Daniel gives us his glowing review of the brand new, locally-assembled crossover (Spoiler: it's comfortable, decked out, and eye-catching) and trust him - it's a car you don't want to miss. Photo credit: dsf.my See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In local headlines this week, before the dust can settle, tune in to find out how Chinese automakers Jaecoo and BYD are shaking up the market with the openings of their brand new showrooms. Then, to all double parkers out there (you know who you are), you've been warned: DBKL implemented new traffic compound rates from 1st July. In local launches, Citroën is back and throwing their hat into the local EV ring with a couple of exciting models. And globally, some sad news from Suzuki about the future of the ever-popular Swift and Jimny. Then, we might not have seen the nail in the coffin just yet, but Ali and Daniel dive deep into the possibility of Korean carmakers getting edged out of the Malaysian market with the seemingly unstoppable force of the Chinese cars dominating the mainstream recently. And, rounding up the show with a car review! With the return of great British automotive legend MG to Malaysian roads, Daniel shares his review of the MG4 Lux Extended Range - an electric hot hatch you definitely want to get behind the wheel of ASAP. Image credit: MG Malaysia See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The boys are back this week on Cruise Control! News of the latest local launches means SUV galore as Chery has rocked the Malaysian market with the Tiggo 7 Pro, and Mercedes-Benz has thrown their hat into the ring with facelift editions of their family-friendly GLB200 and GLB250. Then, a peek at the unbelievable, new Porsches at the Porsche World Roadshow at the Sepang circuit until the end of the week. And in the global auto world, tariffs imposed on Chinese EVs continue. Next, just over two weeks since diesel subsidy reforms began, finance minister Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan claims that diesel sales have dropped 30%. Daniel weighs in with his own observations on the ground and other ways we're already seeing the impact of the price hike. And what better way to drive us home than a review for the brand new all-electric Mercedes-Benz EQS AMG 4MATIC! Daniel, Richard, and Ali tell us what it was like behind the wheel and in the comfort of the luxury sedan's rear seat. Photo credit: dsf.my See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's a two-man show tonight as Ali and Daniel take us through the biggest headlines in the auto world. This week, Ali and Daniel first take a sporty hybrid Mercedes and a (very slightly) more powerful Volkswagen Golf out for a spin. And in industry news, tune in to find out more about the new Honda and Mitsubishi joint venture getting into the EV battery game, and how the local auto sector is performing this year. Then, believe it or not, Daniel enlightens us on why we need more car approved permit (AP) kings in the country in light of MITI opening up opportunities for Bumiputera entrepreneurs to get involved in the automotive sector. And finally, if you're thinking of picking up a pickup truck, Daniel gives us his review of the brand new Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain that has only gotten better with its 2024 facelift and definitely one for the urban cowboys out there. Photo credit: dsf.my See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cruise Control returns just in time for the festive season! In the first part of the show, we tackle the hard hitting news involving Audi’s plan to lay off close to 7,500 workers by 2029. Is this a new normal for existing car brands as they try to compete with newer brands that are making their mark in the industry? We also spend this part talking about Toyota’s new SUV, the Toyota Crown Estate and speculate whether it’ll be coming to Malaysia. In the second part of the show, Daniel Fernandez reminds the listeners again of the importance of not carrying your child on the lap, especially if you’re sitting in the front seat. We also discuss why parents should prioritise investing in child safety seats for their cars, over other things. In our car review segment, Daniel talks about his experience driving the Aion ES. Starting at RM106,800, the car is competitively priced, but will the lack of features available compared to its competitors hinder the car from being a viable choice among consumers? Daniel shares his thoughts and perspectives on the Aion ES. Photo credit: Teddy Leung / Shutterstock.com

Richard, Ali, and Daniel get into the story everyone's talking about this week: the diesel subsidy reforms that have caused diesel prices to increase more than 50% overnight. We unpack the knock on-effects that businesses and logistic services will pass down to customers, as stories of a tow truck company's announcement of price increases and a kopitiam increasing the price of kopi by 50 sen, both citing the scrap in subsidies, have gone viral. But first, some auto highlights of the week in the region, from BMW Malaysia's new 5 Series, the new full electric Chinese car brand on the block - Zeekr, and the cars getting the hydrogen-powered treatment - the Toyota Hilux and the Honda CRV e. And finally, Daniel puts us in the driver's seat of the head-turning, brand new 2024 Maserati GranTurismo, which marks the return of a Maserati icon. Image credit: RecCameraStock / Shutterstock.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kicking things off on Cruise Control with our biggest news this week, Ali, Richard, and Daniel get into the newly announced road tax structure for zero emission vehicles (ZEVs) coming into effect in 2026. Next, with the possibility of a lemon law finally being introduced next year, we find out what it means to the country's car landscape and why we need it pronto. Then, some car launches already making waves fresh off the production lines: the Ford Ranger Stormtrak 2024 and the Peugeot 408 Hybrid. In part two, Daniel unpacks the Chinese auto invasion in ASEAN that began in 2022 and its impact on the region, the first effects of which we're possibly seeing with the Subaru Corporation as they phase out the assembly of all Subaru vehicles in South East Asia - a move that might be the first casualty of this wave and possibly the first of many. And to round things up, we've got a used car review! This time, it's all about the BMW 118i 2014 - the 10-year-old BMW filling up the classifieds that might surprise you. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.